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Jeh Kulu Saturday, August 22 | 7:00pm | Castleton Pavilion

Back by popular demand, Vermont’s own Jeh Kulu electrifies the audience with a unique blend of African-inspired percussion, vocals, and a wonderfully uplifting message of tolerance and diversity. In the Bambara language of Mali, “Jeh Kulu” means “community” and this is exactly what Jeh Kulu hopes to build with their audiences!

Two questions to help generate discussion following this event:1. African drums hold a special place in the history of Africa. In Africa, drums are almost always

an accompaniment for any manner of ceremony – births, deaths, marriages –together with a ritual dance. The sound of many drums pounding together is also used to stir up emotions in a battle or war, to inspire excitement and passion. How do the drums, as played by Jeh Kulu, evoke emotion in you?

2. What rituals and ceremonies are important in your life? What role did music play in these ceremonies?

BARAN a film by Iranian director Majid Majidi Tuesday, September 1 | 6:00pm | Jeffords Auditorium

Iranian director Majid Majidi’s fifth feature film, BARAN (2001), set on the outskirts of Tehran, opens a window onto the lives of Afghan children and families living and working in exile. Love is at the center of the story which we experience through the eyes and ears of the central characters, Latief and Baran. Much of the action takes place in a construction site, and this film begs comparison with Enaiatollah

Akbari’s journey as described in the First Year Seminar reading, Fabio Geda’s In the Sea there are crocodiles.

Two questions to help generate discussion following this event:1. In what ways does this film deepen your understanding of the experience of children in exile?2. What do Latief and Baran lose, and what do they gain, in the course of the film?

Yvonne Daley lecture: “It’s Not the End of the Road; It’s the Bend in the Road” Thursday, September 10 | 12:30pm | 1787 Room

In 1979, Lenny Burke was a 17-year-old senior at Mount St. Joseph High School in Rutland, the leading basketball scorer in Vermont already accepted to several top colleges, when he was purposely fouled by a competing student while going up for a jump shot. Lenny lay in a coma for a month and a half before he unpredictably

awoke and began telling those around him all that had occurred during his 50-day coma. While Lenny’s life changed irrevocably, it was not the end of the road, but the bend in the road as his injury and recovery has led to discoveries about the brain’s amazing ability to heal and the ways in which community, creativity and determination can bring healing -- real healing -- to thousands. Writer Yvonne Daley catalogued the story and that of dozens of others who have sustained traumatic injuries to the brain in The Bend in the Road, her fifth nonfiction book. Daley is a practitioner of restorative journalism, defined as character-driven narrative that seeks to go beyond the usual five W’s of journalism to ask deeper questions about cause and effect, lessons learned and ways in which people can heal from tragedy.

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Sekhmet (Yvonne Brunot) | Danse Orientale (Turkish Bellydance) Lecture and DemonstrationTuesday, Sept 15 | 12:30pm | 1787 Room

This event will include an introduction to the history and tradition of Danse Orientale (Turkish Bellydance) and will include some interactive movement and dance instruction. Few people are familiar with Danse Orientale’s lyrical, introspective, and fiery qualities that will make this an exciting event for dancers and non-dancers alike.

Stacey Miller and Dennis DePaul presentWhat’s in Your Book of Rules: How Self-Reflection Can Create Inclusion Thursday, Sept 17 | 12:30pm | 1787 Room

Have you ever wondered why you feel so strongly about an issue? Have you ever caught yourself saying, “there’s a right way and a wrong way to do something.” Almost all of us have thought or felt this way about an issue, a custom, or belief, the question is, why?

This presentation will help participants understand how our internal and invisible book of rules impacts how we think and feel, what we believe, and how we navigate the world. Most importantly, we will learn how creating inclusive spaces can be as simple as reflecting on our “book of rules” and being more open to others people’s “books” and the perspectives they carry.

Two questions to help generate discussion following this event:1. Some people might argue that using the way our brains categorize information as an explanation for prejudice and discrimination is a convenient excuse. Do you agree with this? How do you think this explanation might help people acknowledge and challenge their own biases?2. Why is reflection on our “book of rules” and being open to others’ perspectives an important part of a liberal arts education? How might it enrich and improve our relationships, our thinking, and our campus climate? Did the speaker help his audience appreciate the value and importance of this insight?

Republican Presidential DebatesWednesday, Sept 16 | 8:00pm | Paramount TheaterRutland

Presented as part of Castleton’s collaboration with the Paramount, Project 240: Celebrating the American Experience, the debate will be hosted by WCAX-TV political analysts Mike Smith and Steve Terry. The hosts will begin the evening with a short presentation, then students will watch the debate streaming live on the Paramount’s HD big-screen. The debate will be followed by a brief “debate of the

debate” discussion where students and community members can reflect on the evening’s ideas, speeches, and gaffes.

Two questions to help generate discussion following this event:1. If you absolutely had to vote for one of these candidates for president--even if you’re a

Democrat--for whom would you vote? Why?2. Name one major policy issue you learned something about at the debate--either during the

debate itself, the keynote speech beforehand, or the “debate of the debate” afterwards.

August: Osage CountyThursday, Sept 24-Saturday, Sept 26 | 7:00pm Sunday, Sept 27 | 2:00pmCasella Theater

A vanished father. A pill-popping mother. Three sisters harboring shady little secrets. When the large Weston family unexpectedly reunites after Dad disappears, their Oklahoman family homestead explodes in a maelstrom of repressed

truths and unsettling secrets. Mix in Violet, the drugged-up, scathingly acidic matriarch, and you’ve got a major new play that unflinchingly—and uproariously—exposes the dark side of the Midwestern American family. Winner of the 2008 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and Tony Award for Best New Play.

Two questions to help generate discussion following this event:1. AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY presents a family in crisis mode. List some of the dysfunctional

ways they attempt to confront their issues, and how each could have been handled in a more appropriate or effective manner.

2. What role does Violet’s drug addiction play in the events of the play? How might things have been different for the Westons if drug and alcohol abuse were not factors in the family?

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Vermont Symphony Orchestra: Made in VermontMonday, Sept 28 | 7:00pm | Casella Theater

The VSO returns to Castleton in what has become an annual tradition enjoyed by the campus and local communities alike. The program includes two charming Scandinavian miniatures (student poetry will accompany Sibelius’ evocative Suite Mignonne), and two sublime works featuring the violin. Music director Jaime Laredo solos in Mozart’s second violin concerto and is joined by concertmaster Katherine Winterstein for Bach’s Double Concerto.

The program also includes our traditional Vermont-themed world premiere, written by Jennifer Jolley.

Two questions to help generate discussion following this event:1. In what ways does music shape people’s thinking and learning? 2. What role do annual musical traditions play in our community?

Robert Dubac: Writing for Solo PerformanceTuesday, Sept 29 | 12:30pm | Casella Theater

Renowned comic and writer Robert Dubac discusses some “tricks of the trade” in writing comedy for solo performance, previews that evening’s performance of THE BOOK OF MORON, and engages students in Q&A.

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PUSH Physical TheatreTuesday, October 13 | 7:00pm | Casella Theater

Seeing award-winning PUSH Physical Theatre is like watching a live-action movie. This talented group of performers inspires awe with physical illusions and gravity-defying, dance-infused, acrobatic high-jinx. PUSH has performed in theatres, festivals, special events, arts education and residency projects. Audiences ranged from 11,000 to 200 for smaller theatres. It’s cool, it’s athletic, it’s a perfect metaphor-in-motion: the narratives of our lives played out

with hope, strength and optimism. Once you’ve experienced the myth and magic of PUSH, you will know the strength of the human soul expressed by the power of the human body. PUSH’s repeated sold-out performances have established them as the masters of physical storytelling.

Two questions to help generate discussion following this event:1. Name one part of the performance that you wouldn’t have thought possible in live theatre.2. How does movement on stage a la PUSH tell a powerful, compelling story--even without words?

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PUSH Physical TheatreTuesday, October 13 | 12:30pm | Casella Theater

The company of PUSH PHYSICAL THEATRE previews their evening performance, and also invites Castleton Soundings students to join them as they share their process for creating unique, original physical theatre works that bend the mind and delight the eye.

Robert Dubac: THE BOOK OF MORONTuesday, Sept 29 | 7:00pm | Paramount Theater | Rutland

Robert Dubac, one of America’s most renowned solo comedy performers, brings his recent off-Broadway smash hit to Rutland’s Paramount Theater in a “Soundings at the Paramount” event. BOOK OF MORON follows an average Joe as he realizes he’s in a coma from an auto accident, then embarks on a hilarious quest for truth in his own mind. Irreverent, insightful, and intelligent, Dubac’s work will

challenge and delight Soundings students.

Two questions to help generate discussion following this event:1. Dubac’s journey is one from the depths of ignorance to a profound enlightenment--or so it

seems. What in his discussion about the differences between illusion and reality resonated with you the most? Why?

2. How does comedy allow a performer to articulate ideas that might be controversial if presented in another way?

Castleton International Film Festival: 7 CAJAS / 7 BOXESThursday, October 15 | 6:30pm | Herrick Auditorium

The Castleton International Film Festival aims to bring exciting films from around the globe to the Castleton-Rutland community. The Fall 2015 edition features Spanish-language films from Uruguay, Paraguay, Venezuela, Mexico, and Spain. In the opening night film, 7 BOXES / 7 CAJAS, teenage wheelbarrow delivery boy Victor works in

Asuncion’s busy open-air market, driven by dreams of acquiring his own cell phone. He’s offered the chance to deliver seven boxes with unknown contents in exchange for $100, but what sounds like an easy job sends Victor racing for his life.

Two questions to help generate discussion following this event:1. How is technology—specifically screen technology—particularly important to the Latin

American characters in this film?2. What does the film have to say about the nature of poverty?

Regan Chastain: The Positive BodyThursday, October 15 | 12:30pm | 1787 Room

The Positive Body: In this talk we’ll explore the messages that we get about our bodies and the effects those messages can have, we’ll also look at what the research says about weight and health, and we’ll look at real options for health, happiness, and high self-esteem starting wherever you are right now.

Two questions to help generate discussion following this event:1. Has an interest of yours ever developed into a passion? What interest have you transformed

into activism?2. Have you ever struggled with body image? In what ways, if any, do you feel like your

struggles have held you back in life?

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Romeo and JulietThursday, Nov 12 and Friday, Nov 13 | 7:00pm Saturday, Nov 14 | 2:00pm & 7:00pmSunday, Nov 15 | 2:00pm Casella Theater

William Shakespeare’s classic tale of star-crossed lovers and their epic journey to be together -- at any cost!

Two questions to help generate discussion following this event:1. Many students admit to finding Shakespeare’s language difficult to understand when studying it in class. Did tonight’s performance help you to get more from the words? How, or why not?2. It has been argued that Romeo and Juliet were destined to perish--whether by fate or bad decision-making. Do you agree? Explain.

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Flamenco Vivo/Carlota SantanaTuesday, November 17 | 7:00pm | Casella Theater

POEMA DE ANDALUCÍA is a journey through the alluring cultures and traditions of the Andalusian provinces that form the cradle of flamenco. Despite their proximity, many stylistic differences exist between the regions, cities and neighborhoods of southern Spain. The varied traditions, festivals, and rituals of daily life make the Andalusian region a wellspring of cultural heritage, supporting the development of this rich genre of music, song and dance. Through

the language of Flamenco, this special ‘Poem’ pays tribute to the land and people of Andalusia.

Two questions to help generate discussion following this event:1. What stories are the dancers and musicians telling through their movement and/or performance art?2. Was there a specific piece that especially appealed to you and why?

Flamenco Vivo/Carlota SantanaTuesday, November 17 | 12:30pm | Casella Theater

Artistic Director Carlota Santana and her ensemble preview that evening’s performance of their POEMA DE ANDALUCIA, discuss their background and training, and demonstrate flamenco techniques for Castleton students. Students may even find themselves on the Casella stage getting a lesson or two!

Two questions to help generate discussion following this event:1. What does it mean to “build bridges between cultures”? What are some ways we can be a

part of that process here at Castleton and in our local communities?2. What are the benefits of sharing dance and music with a community?

Democratic Presidential DebatesSaturday, Nov 14 | 8:00pm | Paramount TheaterRutland

Presented as part of Castleton’s collaboration with the Paramount, Project 240: Celebrating the American Experience, the debate will be hosted by former AP Vermont Bureau Chief Chris Graff. Graff will begin the evening with a short presentation, then students will watch the debate streaming live on the Paramount’s HD big-screen. The debate will be followed by a brief “debate of the debate”

discussion where students and community members can reflect on the evening’s ideas, speeches, and gaffes.

Two questions to help generate discussion following this event:1. If you absolutely had to vote for one of these candidates for president--even if you’re a

Republican--for whom would you vote? Why?2. Name one major policy issue you learned something about at the debate--either during the

debate itself, the keynote speech beforehand, or the “debate of the debate” afterwards.

Vermont Collegiate Choral Consortium: Magnificat!Friday, November 20 | 7:00pm | Casella Theater

This collaboration between Castleton Chamber Singers, the St. Michael’s College Choir, and Johnson State Chamber Singers will feature three Magnificat settings for choir, soloists, and orchestra by composers from the Baroque (Jan Dismas Zelenka), Classical (Franz Schubert), and Neo-Romantic (Gerald Finzi). The program is an exciting mix of styles from exuberant Baroque counterpoint with

trumpets, timpani, oboes, and strings, to romantic string writing supporting rich 8 part choral singing. Each ensemble will also present works of their own.

Two questions to help generate discussion following this event:1. What are the benefits of live choral/orchestral music in today’s society where recorded music

is so prevalent?2. In what ways are all these different singers and musicians similar to a sports team in their

performance?

Ken Burns: The American ExperienceSaturday, November 21 | 7:30pm | Paramount TheaterRutland

Legendary documentary filmmaker Ken Burns (“Baseball,” “The Civil War,” “The Roosevelts”) engages both Castleton students and community members in a discussion about his career, his films, and his processes—utilizing multimedia video clips to demonstrate on a point-by-point basis. Part of the “Soundings at the Paramount” series.

Two questions to help generate discussion following this event:1. How does a documentarian like Ken Burns play a role in shaping our understanding of

history?2. What makes Ken Burns’ approach to documenting history so appealing to audiences?

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Castleton Jazz Ensemble & Jazz ComboTuesday, December 1 | 7:00pm | Casella Theater

The Castleton Jazz Ensemble, led by Rob Roth, presents a mix of jazz standards, pop covers, and fusion pieces. Past performances have also featured a number of surprise guests including the Green Mountain Show Band (the big band ensemble of Vermont’s 40th Army Band), so patrons can expect a few surprises at each of the Ensemble’s concerts.

Two questions to help generate discussion following this event:1. Why is jazz considered to have been ‘born’ in the US?2. How has jazz influenced other forms of music-rock, pop, classical, rap/hip-hop, country, The Blues?

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Castleton University Chorale and Chamber SingersFriday, December 4 | 7:00pm | Casella Theater

The Castleton University Chorale and Chamber Singers winter concert will feature music from a variety of contemporary composers including “It Takes a Village” by Joan Szymko, “Alleluia” by Paul Basler, and “Remembrances of Love” by James McCray. Accompanying instruments will include conga drums, horn, and harp.

Two questions to help generate discussion following this event:1. Discuss the relationship of text to music - how do these songs convey the different texts -

does the music enhance the text, or detract from it. What role does instrumentation play?2. Discuss the impact of music on human emotions and expression. What style of music effects

you the most? Which piece(s) on the choir program had the biggest emotional impact, and why?

Castleton Wind EnsembleWednesday, December 9| 7:00pm | Casella Theater

For the fall concert, the Castleton Wind Ensemble will present An Asian Celebration. Featuring works by composers Yagisawa, Boo, Chance, Chavez, Saucedo, and Brown, the wind ensemble will perform music that honors the wonderful contributions of Asian culture to wind band repertoire.

Two questions to help generate discussion following this event:1. What music characteristics could be considered uniquely Asian? Consider music by the

composers who will be featured in the concert. 2. When listening to Asian music, how does it make you feel? Explain.