By Richard Schultz, November 2016 Issue.
A Vampire Tale 13
Oct. 27-Nov. 5
Dubbed “The Nutcracker of Halloween,” this yearly haunt, presented by Scorpius Dance Theatre, is celebrating its 13th consecutive season. How lucky for local audiences! Audiences will be indulged with all the trimmings of a dark and sexy drama with quirky and comedic episodes and visually stunning dance and aerial feats. This sell-out production predates all of the current pop culture vampire phenomena and evolves annually to keep audiences coming back for more with the look and feel of a live concert.
In A Vampire Tale, a young woman is drawn to the dark side and finds herself lured into an assorted band of bloodsuckers. Frightened yet fascinated by their shadowy showmanship and seductive transactions, the girl struggles to avoid becoming part of their underworld when she becomes infatuated with the king vampire.
A Vampire Tale 13
Oct. 27-Nov. 5
Hormel Theatre at Phoenix Theatre
100 E. McDowell Road, Phoenix
Tickets: $29-$45; 602-254-2151
Piaf! The Show
Through Oct. 22
This tribute show celebrates the life and music of legendary French actress and singer Edith Piaf (1915–1963), one of the 20th century’s greatest performers. Starring vocalist Anne Carrere, the multimedia show narrates the rags-to-riches story of the Parisian singer’s career through her classic songs and never-before-seen photographs. Carrere and a quartet of musicians on piano, percussion, accordion and double bass take the audience on an unforgettable journey through the streets of Paris during the time of La Vie en Rose. Conceived and directed by Gil Marsalla, Piaf! The Show premiered in 2015 as a tribute to “The Little Sparrow of Montmartre” on the centennial of Piaf’s birthday. It has become a worldwide success, packing theaters and earning rave reviews.
Piaf! The Show
Through Oct. 22
Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts
7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale
Tickets: $29-$69; 480-499-8587