IU Auditorium brings big-name shows for 2011 season

As students return to campus, the IU Auditorium is preparing for its fall 2011 season by spreading the word around the IU community about upcoming shows.

The season kicks off with Jon Stewart of Comedy Central’s “The Daily Show.”

On Sept. 30, Stewart will perform a stand-up act that will touch on themes from his show while poking fun at the media and politicians.

“It’s going to be a really special experience for those that attend because this is a very rare thing that he does,” Auditorium Event Manager Maria Talbert said. “He doesn’t do regular touring, and his appearances on stage are few and far
in between.”

Students are also anticipating Stewart’s upcoming performance.

“Jon Stewart coming to IU will be awesome,” freshman Jim Agey said. “That’s something I’d definitely go see.”

Adding to the eclectic lineup of shows this fall, the SFJAZZ Collective will be performing on Oct. 22 at the Auditorium.

The eight-member ensemble will pay homage to Stevie Wonder by performing some of his works, including “Superstition.” SFJAZZ will also perform original compositions.

Junior Zach Majors said SFJAZZ will likely be a great show.

“It’s really neat that they’re going to be covering some hits as well as debuting some of their own compositions,” Majors said. “I think it’s important to do both.”

Just in time for Halloween, master organist and IU alumnus Dennis James will perform “The Phantom of the Opera” on Oct. 27 as part of his annual silent film
performance.  

In a switch from horror to light-hearted, “Shrek the Musical” will come to the stage Nov. 15-17.

Based on the 2001 DreamWorks film “Shrek,” the musical is a parody of classic fairy tales.

Sophomore Nathan Kiefer said he hadn’t heard about the fall shows yet. He said he would be interested in seeing “Shrek.”

“‘Shrek’ sounds really cool and like something I’d take advantage of,” Kiefer said.
“Really, the whole season sounds great. I’d like to go to all of the shows.”

To complete the fall season, the Singing Hoosiers will perform Christmas favorites at “Chimes of Christmas” on Dec. 7.

Talbert said the IU Auditorium is still in the process of confirming additional concerts and comedy shows to add to the lineup.

They are also working with university departments and community groups to add their events on the calendar.

Jon Stewart
7 p.m. and 10 p.m., Sept. 30

SFJAZZ Collective
8 p.m., Oct. 22

Dennis James Hosts Halloween
7:30 p.m., Oct. 27

Schola Cantorum de Venezuela
8 p.m., Nov. 1

Shrek the Musical
7:30 p.m., Nov. 15 through 17

Chimes of Christmas
7:30 p.m., Dec. 7