Art about town August 25-31

Tiny Ninja Talmund Theater
Saturday
August 25

There is certainly something intriguing about Shakespearian plays being performed using miniature ninja figurines. During their South Florida performance, the Tiny Ninja Theater Company will perform the Babylonian Talmud, one of Judaism's most dense and sacred texts, normally poured over by scholars, rather than played out by toys. Experience ancient Jewish text in a wild new way as this NYC-based company uses tiny plastic ninjas and other assorted dime store figures to embody the characters of the play. Shows are at 9:15 and 11:15 p.m., and tickets are $18 which includes a post show reception with the artists.



The Moore Building
4040 NE 2nd Avenue, Design District
305-538-7231




From the Land of The Buddha
Saturday
August 25 at 8 p.m.

Arts at St. John's has built a reputation for bringing world class performances to South Florida. In keeping with their well deserved status, Arts at St. John's presents a concert featuring classical music inspired by the culture and landscape of the East, written entirely by young composers under the age of 30. Each award-winning young composer draws his/her own distinct voice from the remarkable wealth of history and beauty that is "The Land of the Buddha." General admission is $20; online tickets and tickets for seniors and students are $15.



St. John's United Methodist
4760 Pine Tree Drive, Miami Beach
305-612-2325






"Paz" - A tribute to Bill Evans by Niño Josele
Saturday
August 25 at 8 p.m.

"Paz" is Niño Josele's guitar rendition which was inspired by Bill Evans's piano. Two sensibilities that are born from different worlds and different music come together on one of the most beautiful albums you are likely to hear. Featuring Horacio "El Negro" Hernandez on percussion and Esperanza Spalding on bass and voice.



Gusman Theater of the Performing Arts
174 E Flagler Street, Downtown
305-372-0925




So, You Want To Be An Artist!
Monday
August 27 from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Lèche-Vitrines Art Alliance is all about helping artists realize their dreams. The Artists Lecture Series Part 2 will focus on the numerous dilemmas artists face during their often-thankless careers. The lecture will cover publishing decisions, creating limited editions, deciding on printers, shipping options and certificates of authenticity. Space is limited and RSVP plus pre-payment are a must. Tickets are $25. Limited to just 30 - people who will surely gain a wealth of knowledge that is essential for turning art from a hobby to a career.



Lèche-Vitrines Art Alliance
3038 North Federal Highway, 2nd floor, Times Square Design Plaza, Fort Lauderdale
954-563-2993




"Ice in August"
August 29 – 31

Besides their lush landscapes and tropical foliage, the Miami Beach Botanical Garden has also earned a reputation for their innovative themes and unique displays. This week, they offer the perfect antidote to South Florida's summer heat with artworks by Norwegian-born video artist Stian Roenning and photographer Joseph Pessar. Roenning's work shows winter scenes and haunting images of landscapes, and Pessar, who is married to a Norwegian, has photographed Norway in a way that depicts his fascination with the country. The exhibit's opening reception is August 29 from 6 to 8 p.m. and the work will be on view through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free and open to the public. Pictured: Roenning's "Greenhouses in Winter."



Miami Beach Botanical Garden
2000 Convention Center Drive, Miami Beach
305-673-7256, ext. 206




Jon Faddis Quartet
Thursday
August 30
8 p.m.

As a trumpeter Jon Faddis possesses a virtually unparalleled range and full command of his instrument, making the practically impossible seem effortless. He's a complete and consummate musician: conductor, composer, and educator. Meeting Dizzy Gillespie at 15 was the beginning of a unique friendship that spanned over three decades. Faddis worked as lead trumpet for the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Orchestra at the Village Vanguard, formed his own quartet, and soon began directing orchestras, including the Carnegie Hall Jazz Band. The trumpet shall sound at the close of the Community Arts Program Summer 2007 Concert Series. You won't want to miss it, with this dynamic concert and compelling artist, who Time Out New York calls "The world's greatest trumpeter." Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door. Free, convenient parking is available.



Coral Gables Congregational Church
3010 De Soto Blvd., Coral Gables
305-448-7421, ext. 33




Jazz at MOCA
Friday
August 31
8 p.m.

Turn up the heat with Ray Ray's Jazz Mix, a group of multi-talented jazz artists who perform under the direction of renowned percussionist and arranger Raymond Ray a.k.a. "Ray Ray." Come out and enjoy their sensational mix of Caribbean, Brazilian and traditional jazz at this free outdoor concert held at the Museum of Contemporary Art and sponsored by Starbucks Coffee Company and the City of North Miami. MOCA's lobby will be open from 7 to 10 p.m. for concert enthusiasts to also view the museum's short film and video Optic Nerve IX Film Festival finalists.



Museum of Contemporary Art
770 N.E. 125th St., North Miami
305-893-6211




Registration Deadline for 2008 youngARTS Awards
Deadline October 1

The National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts (NFAA) each year invites up to 150 artists to participate in youngARTS Week in Miami, a program of performances, classes, workshops and enrichment activities with renowned artists and arts educators. The opportunity is open to talented 17 and 18 year old high school seniors who win cash prizes of up to $10,000 and the chance to be named a Presidential Scholar in the Arts. The final registration deadline is October 1 with all audition/portfolio materials due by November 5. Formerly known as "Arts Recognition and Talent Search," the program was established in 1981 by Ted and Lin Arison.



800-970-2787