Tamburitzans to perform Aug. 15 at Calumet Theatre

Poster for the Duquesne University Tamburitzans, who will perform Saturday, Aug. 15, at the Calumet Theatre. (Photo courtesy CLK Rotary)

CALUMET -- The CLK Rotary will be hosting the internationally famous Duquesne University Tamburitzans at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 15, at the historic Calumet Theatre. Club President Jim Lowell said tickets for the performance are still available and proceeds from the show will help fund several charitable efforts the CLK Rotary Club undertakes -- including its recently announced CLK Rotary Education Scholarship.

The Duquesne University Tamburitzans, whose name originates from the stringed instruments they play during the performance, have been hailed as America’s premier folk ensemble -- incorporating the rich music and electrifying dance of Eastern and Central European folk culture. One of America's longest-running live stage shows, the Duquesne University Tamburitzans' ornate costumes, rapid dance movement and engaging music have entertained audiences around the world for over 70 years.

Formed in the late 1930s, the group was visiting Calumet, the home of one of the group, during their first year and put on a performance for a local audience. The performance was well received, and they have returned every year since then.

The group is made up of 36 students from Duquesne University, all of whom are students first, artists second. The quality of the performance, however, belies this fact. They are as close to professional quality as Big Ten football is to the professional equivalent. The comparison doesn’t stop there. As with any sport, the competition for spots on the team is fierce. Each summer they spend weeks in a "training camp" in Wisconsin drilling for the upcoming "season." Scholarships are a key part of their program, just like college football.

The CLK Rotary club has hosted the Tamburitzans for countless years and invites people of all ages and interests to come to this delightful, exciting and unique performance.

Tickets can be purchased at the Calumet Theatre box office or through any CLK Rotarian. All seats are $15. Box office hours are Monday through Friday 12 p.m. - 5 p.m. and two and a half hours before performances. For more ticket information please call the theatre box office at 906-337-2610.