Fairfield University presents the exciting world beat musical troupe, Barrage, on Thursday, Nov. 1, at 8 p.m. in the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts. After captivating audiences throughout Europe, Barrage is finally making its much anticipated North American Tour.

Barrage presents an astonishing visual and aural fusion of music, dance, theater and song centered around an ageless and powerful instrument: the violin. Their new stage show, "A Violin Sings, a Fiddle Dances," is a stunning spectacle for the senses. Through the instrumentality of seven violinists, two percussionists, a guitarist, and bass and keyboard players, audiences of all ages are drawn in and charmed by the highly unique theatrical and musical style of Barrage.

The show, a huge outpouring of energy lit with rock-n-roll panache, is presented with theatrical precision, as the cast weaves freely between each other, forming crisp lines, dissolving into spinning concentric circles and then resolving into tight-knit formations that feature bows flying and feet blurring.

Created in 1996 by 5-1 Entertainments, the concept behind Barrage is to combine the many traditions and styles played on the violin and fiddle with the contemporary and world beat elements of percussion, rhythm, movement and energy to create a brand new form of theatrical extravaganza. The group's exciting sound features a wide range of musical influences including: Calypso, Swing, Country, Jazz, Klezmer, Classical and Pop.

In addition to its busy touring schedule, Barrage has been a featured show at Epcot Center, a favorite touring show in Denmark, and has made appearances at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Cropredy festival in the United Kingdom. Barrage has already gained worldwide media attention, appearing for millions of viewers on several international TV networks including PBS (United States), BBC (United Kingdom), RTE (Ireland), CBC (Canada), Denmark National Television and ZDF (Germany).

Tickets for the Barrage concert are $30 with discounts available for seniors, students and groups. For more information or reservations, call the box office at (203) 254-4010 or toll free at 1-877-ARTS-396. You may also visit our web site at www.quickcenter.com.

Posted On: 10-01-2001 09:10 AM

Volume: 34 Number: 76