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Walking by, one might glance into what looks like a classic ballroom on the corner of Brooks Ave and Main Street in Venice. It is in fact the home of The Blankenship Ballet Company of Venice, which not only produces dance events but also reaches out to every artistic area of the Venice community and includes different styles of music, poetry, comedy, drama and art.
Lately, there has been a flourish of activity. Events are happening each month, with dancing and music rehearsals throughout each day. Local residents are recognizing this with a sense of awe and anticipation of what and when the next production will be at the Blankenship Ballet Studio. The Venice Cabaret Theatre is here! The first event took place on Saturday, June 14th, and a great time was shared by all.
Saturday July 26th, at 8:00 pm, marks the second monthly cabaret co-produced by singer/songwriter Lauri Reimer and Mark Blankenship, owner of the Blankenship Ballet Studio - the lovely venue where it will all be taking place. With line-up of incredible performances, the Venice Cabaret Theatre proves to be a perfect combination for local singers and musicians to sing their songs and play their tunes while artists exhibit their work in an incredible setting reminiscent of the 1920's French cabaret.... all played deliciously within a grand historic turn-of-the-century ballroom now known as the Blankenship Ballet Studio.
A bit about the ballroom...Built in 1905 by the Christian Science church, this beautiful venue was rarely used since 1937. It was then taken over by impresario Mark Blankenship, renovated and restored, and then resurrected as a home for the Blankenship Ballet Company of Venice in 2007, not even a year ago. The studio is already being recognized as world-class arts' center that promotes and supports the presentation of dance, music and art in a beautiful venue intended to inspire and raise the awareness of the local community. We can truly say that in Venice, there exists a "place" where local artists and musicians can gather, create, produce, perform and enjoy the arts. The Venice Cabaret Theatre is a way to open the doors of this majestic ballroom to the community by inviting artists to present music and entertainment for their friends, family and others interested in the arts---all of it occurring in a beautiful setting that is transformed into a room that emulates the famous Moulin Rouge in Paris.
"Just last year I was down on my knees pulling nails out of the floor" he remarks, "now that the studio is finally refurbished, I have the difficult task of choosing which events work best here. I am truly excited that Lauri Reimer, event coordinator, approached me about this engaging event. The response has been great so far. There is nothing like this on the west side." Having restored the ballroom to its original grandeur, The Blankenship Ballet Studio is flourishing with new and eclectic happenings each month.
On Saturday July 26th the Blankenship Ballet Studio will once again become the Venice Cabaret Theatre as it transforms into a wonderful artistic and musical experience complete with the charm of a European cabaret theatre. Singer/Songwriter/Comedienne, Kathy Leonardo will emcee the evening with her bawdy wit and boundless energy. This month's performers include Stefani Valadez Ensemble - Enchanting, Spiritual, World Beat music with a Middle Eastern flavor Richard Stekol featuring Nate Wood from Kneebody - Acoustic folk rock & soul Jane St. Clair - sultry, jazzy singer/songwriter Jodie Siegel - soulful, bluesy singer/songwriter/guitarist Michael Mishaw - R&B, soul, singer/songwriter/keyboardist.
There will be complimentary refreshments. Food will also be available for sale.
Experience the resurgence of this historic majestic ballroom. Be a part of this new exciting event. Come to the Venice Cabaret Theatre at The Blankenship Ballet Studio Sat, July 26th 132 Brooks Ave. (on the Corner of Main and Brooks at Abbot Kinney Blvd) in Venice. at 8:00 pm. $10.00 prepaid with reservation; $15.00 at the door. All major credit cards accepted. Call now 1(866) 922-5538. Or visit myspace.com/VeniceCabaretTheatre or www.BlankenshipBallet.com.
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