Back at the PAC

It’s a packed week at the PAC.
Over the next few days, audiences will see choirs, an up-and-coming comedian, a family-friendly musical and Latina divas at the Performing Arts Center in San Luis Obispo.
The fun starts Saturday with a joint concert by Cal Poly’s finest vocalists.
Cal Poly organist Paul Woodring will man the majestic Forbes Pipe Organ during inspirational tunes sung by Polyphonics, The University Singers and the Early Music Ensemble.
Cal Poly’s barbershop quartets and outstanding student soloists will also take the stage.
The concert starts at 8 p.m. Saturday at the PAC. Tickets are $13 to $15.

Sunday brings the zany, energetic Broadway musical, “Seussical.” Kids will recognize several characters from Dr. Seuss’ classic children’s books, including The Cat in the Hat, Horton the elephant, and an imaginative young Who named Jo Jo. The show, by Theatreworks USA, is appropriate for ages 4 and up.
Catch the fun at 3 p.m., Sunday. Tickets are $18.

Fast-forward to Thursday, with a visit by East Coast stand-up comedian Mike Birbiglia.
Known for his hilarious “Secret Public Journal” routine, Birbiglia performed in San Luis Obispo a year ago as part of a comedy tour featuring regulars of radio’s nationally syndicated “The Bob and Tom Show.”
This time, he brings along a cast of Comedy Central favorites and indie musicians. (Note to parents: This show is rated “PG-13.”)
Tickets for Mike Birbiglia are $27. The show is 8 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 1.

Friday features the Divas Latinas, led by Chilean-born flutist Viviana Guzman.
The group, which also features singer Rosa Rojas, guitarist Gyan Riley and percussionist John Waller, expresses the riches of Latino cultures through song and dance.
From tango to flamenco, they focus on fire and passion.
That performance starts at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 2. Tickets are $35.

All of the above shows are at the Performing Arts Center, 1 Grand Ave. in San Luis Obispo. For more information, call 756-2787 or visit www.pacslo.org.

-- Sarah L.

Gary the Great

The tricky thing about writing a profile about Gary Lamprecht is that there’s so much to say.
Lamprecht retires next month as director of San Luis Obispo High School’s award-winning choir program. But his legacy doesn’t end there.
Over the last three decades, he’s taught kids to sing at Laguna Middle School and Morro Bay High School, and coaxed community members toward greatness with the San Luis Obispo Vocal Arts Ensemble.
His passion for music is powerful. His energy is seemingly endless.
So when I asked a handful of friends and students to describe Gary, the outpouring of praise, respect and affection was equally bountiful.

Here are some kind words that didn’t make the print edition:

“It’s kind of hard to describe Mr. L. You can’t just say one thing. ‘Inspiring’ is one thing. ‘Amazing.’ ”
“You can tell he’s really into music, and it rubs off on people.”
— Moani Seely, junior at SLO High

“He’s amazing. He knows what he’s talking about and he cares … It’s just fun to go to choir.”
— Kelly Christopherson, senior at SLO High

“(His) passion is infectious. I can be in an ensemble where everyone is expected to love music, and they do.”
— Carolyn Campell, senior at SLO High

“He has a very personal way with the choir. He shares himself with them. He doesn’t just dictate to them.”
“He just offers them the opportunity to really grow and really blossom.”
— Cricket Handler, assistant choir director at SLO High and Vocal Arts Ensemble

CHECK OUT The Tribune's excellent online slideshow on Gary here.