PARKERSBURG - An "electrifying" stage show - literally - will be coming to the Smoot Theatre stage in early November.
Several shows are planned during the month at the Smoot at 215 Fifth St. in downtown Parkersburg.
The next show will be "ArcAttack" at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 3 at the Smoot. Tickets will be $12 for adults and $9 for high school and younger. Tickets are available at the Smoot, by calling 304-422-7529 (PLAY) or online at www.smoottheatre.com.
Seen on "America's Got Talent" in 2010 where the group reached the semifinals, ArcAttack uses its high tech wizardry to generate a truly "electrifying" performance which is part theater, part concert and part science fair.
Two custom-engineered, hand-built Tesla Coils throw out electrical arcs up to 12 feet long, each one acting as an instrument with sound reminiscent of the early days of the synthesizer. A robotic drum set accompanies the spectacle, its high power LEDs flashing bright colors with the stroke of each mechanically actuated stick, while ArcAttack's six members churn out rhythmic instrumental melodies.
"During the show, the MC engages both the crowd and the Tesla Coils by walking through 500,000-volt sparks wearing a chain mail Faraday suit," said Smoot director Felice Jorgeson. "This high power performance is unique in its elements and energy - like none other we've had at the Smoot," she said.
In addition to the evening performance, ArcAttack will present a 12:30 p.m. show on Nov. 3 for school groups in which the group will show how science and the arts can work together for a pleasant, fun outcome. Group rates are available by calling the Smoot.
The performance is made possible in part through a grant from the Parkersburg Area Community Foundation and in conjunction with the Science Department at McKinley Elementary School.
More information is available about the group at www.arcattack.com.
In November's other shows, the Smoot's Kids Club Series will continue with the musical "Hans Brinker" at 7 p.m. Nov. 12 at the Smoot.
Tickets for non-members are $12 for adults and $7 for students.
Presented by the ArtsPower theatre program, the musical shows how Hans and his younger sister take risks and overcome obstacles in order to help their ailing father and keep their family together.
The show is based on the timeless family classic by Mary Mapes Dodge.
A Piano Ensemble featuring students from the Mid-Ohio Valley will be offered Nov. 19 at the Smoot, while the P.A.C.E. Holiday Performance from the Performing Arts Connection and Education program will be Nov. 26.
