Each year the Kent Arts Commission puts on its Spotlight Series. Check out these upcoming family-friendly shows in the 2009-2010 Spotlight Series:

"In the Mood: A 1940s Show"
February 20 – “In the Mood, A 1940s Musical “
Kentwood Performing Arts Center
“In The Mood: A 1940s Musical” is a show that offers a look into America’s greatest generation. Singers, dancers and a big band orchestra offer everything from up-tempo rhythms to ballads. The costumes and choreography are authentic, and they put the finishing touches on re-creating this sentimental and romantic era. At the Kentwood Performing Arts Center on February 20, at 7:30 pm. Tickets for general audiences are $28, seniors are $26, and youth are $20.
March 11 – “Men of Worth “
Kent-Meridian Performing Arts Center
“Men of Worth” is presented by Scotsman Donnie MacDonald and Irishman James Keigher. They’re performing traditional and contemporary Irish and Scottish folk music. The music combines vocal harmonies and a wide variety of instruments. Men of Worth have been called “the real thing in Celtic entertainment”. Also, Irish dancers and additional musicians join the duo for this pre-St. Patrick’s Day performance. Men of Worth will be at the Kent-Meridian Performing Arts center on March 11, at 7:30 pm. Tickets for general audiences are $20, seniors are $18, and youth tickets are $15.
March 13 – “Robin Crusoe” with the Missoula Children’s Theatre
Kent-Meridian Performing Arts Center
The Missoula Children’s Theatre is putting on a production of “Robinson Crusoe” on March 13 at the Kent-Meridian Performing Arts Center. The play is varying from the novel, and teaches the lesson that reading invites more than observation. It also teaches that books allow readers the luxury of the imagination. Open auditions will be held March 8 from 4 to 6 at Glenridge Elementary. Tickets for all are $5.
March 20 – “Luminous Edge” by Thomas Arthur
Kent-Meridian Performing Arts Center
On March 20, Thomas Arthur will bring us the “Luminous Edge”, his family performance. The performance brings choreographed juggling, digital film projections and audience participation. “Luminous Edge” will be at the Kent-Meridian Performing Arts Center at 3 pm. Tickets for general audiences are $12, seniors are $10, and youth tickets are $8.
April 3 – The sound of Maui, brought to you by Hapa
Kentwood Performing Arts Center
The sound of Maui is being brought to Kent on April 3. Hapa is a musical group that evokes tropical paradise. Combining ancient changes, Portuguese fisherman ballads and Spanish cowboys, melodies of early missionary choirs and more, they bring a dose of American acoustic folk/rock. They will be at the Kentwood Performing Arts Center at 7:30 pm. Tickets for general audiences are $28, seniors are $26, and youth are $20.
April 9 – The Wailin’ Jennys
Kent-Meridian Performing Arts Center
The Wailin’ Jennys are a band with a fresh acoustic sound, coming from Canada’s mid-western heartland. They are brought onward by an increasing fan base, which loves their harmonies. They have an engaging stage presence. They are enchanting audiences across North America, the U.K. and continental Europe. They will be performing at the Kent-Meridian Performing Arts Center. Tickets for general audiences are $24, seniors are $22, and youth are $18.
May 1 – “Guthrie Family Rides Again”
ShoWare Center
Four generations of the Guthries bring you the “Guthrie Family Rides Again”. The family will perform songs they’ve written. Also, unpublished Woody Guthrie lyrics will be put to music. The performance will be at ShoWare Center on May 1 at 8 pm.