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Meghan Horrigan
Director of Public Affairs & Communications
(408) 792-4175
mhorrigan@sanjose.org

Jeanne Sullivan
Public Relations Consultant, National & Regional Trade and Consumer Media
(650) 215-8156
jsullivan@sanjose.org

Sarah Hildenberger
Communications Coordinator
(408) 792-4101
shildenberger@sanjose.org

UPCOMING SPRING AND SUMMER EVENTS IN SAN JOSE


SAN JOSE, CA (Apr. 29, 2008) – – Back when orchards blanketed the valley floor, the song of the wind through the plum and cherry trees was the main entertainment. Now, Silicon Valley rings with live music and a multifaceted array of other events, from edgy and sophisticated to down-home fun. There’s so much to choose from, and with 300 days of sunshine, travelers to San Jose find plenty of reasons to visit and stay no matter what time of year. Here’s what is coming up over the next few months:

ENTERTAINMENT, EVENTS, AND FESTIVALS

Ballet San Jose presents The Firebird & Mendelssohn Symphony
May 1-4
Center for the Performing Arts
Danced to a groundbreaking score by Igor Stravinsky, this Russian fairy tale tells of a prince who captures the mysterious Firebird. To gain her release, the Firebird gives the prince a feather, with the promise of her magic intercession if he should ever need it. Little does he realize how soon he will have to call on her and how many people she will be asked to save from the monstrous ruler of the enchanted forest, The Immortal Kastchei. When Dennis Nahat’s version of the classic story had its world premiere in October 2005, it won rave reviews and audience acclaim. With three-dimensional scenery and dynamic costumes by Ian Falconer that range from the beautiful to the ghoulish, this Firebird will wow adults and children alike with its passion, its drama, and its magic. For more information, call 408-288-2800 or visit www.sjtix.com.

Children’s Musical Theatre presents Disney’s Mulan, Jr.
May 1-4
Montgomery Theater
Travel back to the legendary, story-telling days of ancient China with this action packed stage adaptation of Disney’s Mulan. This heart-warming celebration of culture, honor, and a fighting spirit finds the misfit Mulan and her mischievous sidekick Mushu on a heroic adventure to save the Emperor. The stage production includes favorite Disney songs like “Reflection,” “Honor to Us All,” and “I’ll Make a Man Out of You,” as well as new songs and production numbers that will have the entire audience on their feet. For more information, call 408-288-KIDS or visit www.sjtix.com.

Opera San Jose presents The Magic Flute
May 1-4
California Theatre
Nothing could be more charming in all of opera than W.A. Mozart’s The Magic Flute (Die Zauberflöte). Each number was composed to beguile, and indeed, since its inception this work has done exactly that. Of all of Mozart’s operas, this is the only one that never fell out of favor, from its premiere in 1791 to the present day. It is based on a fairy tale that contains all the necessary elements: a romance between a strong, handsome prince, and a gentle heroine; a war between a wicked queen and a wise sorcerer; and plenty of comic situations. The Magic Flute is a delightful introduction to opera for youngsters. Admission is $65-$85. For more information, call 408-437-4450 or visit www.operasj.org.

Downtown San Jose Farmers’ Market
Fridays, beginning May 2-December 19
San Pedro Square
The cozy outdoor market takes place each Friday, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., along a charming block of San Pedro Street (between Santa Clara and St. John streets). Browse with ease through a colorful array of fresh flowers, fruits, and vegetables. For more information, visit www.sjdowntown.com.

Spring Walking Series
Saturdays, now through May 17
438 Coleman Avenue
Live a healthier life by participating in group walks through the trails of the Guadalupe River Park. Also learn proper walking and stretching techniques, as well as strength exercises. Pre-registration is required and participants must be 18 years of age or older. Event takes place from 8:30 a.m.–9:30 a.m. Admission is $50-$60. For more information, call 408-298-7657 or visit www.grpg.org.

Chinese Rock ‘N Roll – Cui Jian
May 3
South Hall
If there is a single person who best signifies China’s growing hunger for Rock and Roll, it is Cui Jian. This concert is part of the Stanford Pan-Asia Festival. Admission is $20-$100. For more information, call 510-651-6888 or visit www.usastarimage.com.

Cinco de Mayo Celebration
May 5
Market Street and Discovery Meadow
Marking its 26th year, the fiesta kicks off with a parade down Market Street and then fills Discovery Meadow with arts and crafts vendors, food booths, and live music as well as dances by vividly-garbed folklórico groups. Sometimes the cutest show is on the youth stage, where tiny dancers do their best at traditional bailes. For more information, call 408-288-9470 or visit www.sjgif.org/cincodemayo.html.

Symphony Silicon Valley presents Gershwin 1920’s Radio Hour
May 8-11
California Theatre
Be a guest for the live broadcast of a 1920's radio show, complete with announcer and commercials of the era, and featuring Gershwin's two jazz and blues infused piano concertos in their original Paul Whiteman big band orchestrations. International concert pianist Gwendolyn Mok performs with a jazz vocalist in added Gershwin favorites. Attendees can enjoy great music and fun. For more information, call 408-286-2600 or visit www.symphonysiliconvalley.org.

Children’s Musical Theatre presents Into the Woods
May 9-18
Montgomery Theater
An ambivalent Cinderella? A blood-thirsty Little Red Riding Hood? A Prince Charming with a roving eye? A witch… who raps? They’re all among the cockeyed characters in James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim’s fractured fairy tale. When a baker and his wife learn they’ve been cursed with childlessness by the witch next door, they embark on a quest for the special objects required to break the spell. Everyone’s wish is granted at the end of Act One, but the consequences of their actions return to haunt them later, with disastrous results. CMT’s main stage production of Into the Woods is supported by the National Endowment for the Arts in honor of American musical master, Stephen Sondheim. For more information, call 408-288-KIDS or visit www.sjtix.com.

Spotlight Dance Cup
May 9-11
Civic Auditorium
Spotlight Events, Inc., the parent company of Spotlight Dance Cup, produces high quality, professional dance competitions in cities throughout the country. Participants of all ages from the surrounding areas will have the opportunity to compete at this spectacular event. Thousands of dollars in cash, scholarships, trophies, and prizes will be presented at Spotlight Dance Cup. Participants and spectators are invited to attend this event. For more information, visit www.spotlightevents.com.

Firebird Youth Chinese Orchestra presents Chinese Operatic Music Concert
May 10
California Theatre
Firebird Youth Chinese Orchestra (FYCO) will perform a Chinese Opera Concert at the California Theatre. Chinese traditional operas are the roots of today’s Chinese music and have been loved by millions of Chinese people for hundreds of years. In this concert, the audience will watch the national class Peking Opera actresses’ beautiful performances in addition to listening to many different kinds of operatic music, including Kunqu, Peking, Cantonese, Huangmei, and Chuanju. Admission is $25-$100. For more information, call 408-286-2600 x23 or visit www.fyco.org.

No Dinx – NCVA Power League Regionals
May 10-11
San Jose McEnery Convention Center
The Northern California Volleyball Association, a regional of USA Volleyball, presents the Junior Girls Club Volleyball Power League Regional Finals. For more information, call 415-550-7582 or visit www.ncva.com.

American Musical Theatre of San Jose presents Disney’s Beauty and the Beast
May 13-25
Center for the Performing Arts
A timeless story filled with magic, romance, and suspense, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast is truly a remarkable theatrical celebration. Based on the Academy Award-nominated animated feature, the stage version includes all of the wonderful songs from the film, plus brand new songs especially created for Broadway. Join Belle, Mrs. Potts, Lumiere, and the Beast for an unforgettable journey where, in the end, everyone lives happily ever after. An enchanting musical for all ages. For more information, call 1-888-455-SHOW or visit www.sjtix.com.

CalChess State Championships
May 16-18
San Jose McEnery Convention Center
CalChess is the official state affiliate of the US Chess Federation. The purpose of CalChess is to broaden and develop chess as an art, recreation, and significant element of culture in Northern California. Since no one needs to be a member to play, everybody can join this chess tournament! For more information, visit www.calchessscholastics.org.

Dance Rave Competition
May 16-18
Civic Auditorium
Watch as dancers of all ages perform and compete. Free Admission. For more information, visit www.dancerave.com.

FanimeCon 2008
May 23-26
San Jose McEnery Convention Center
Fanime is Northern California's largest Japanese Anime convention. In any Anime convention, the star of the weekend is its events. Fanime's events have always been a crowd favorite. Each year includes crowd favorites such as Dealers Rooms, Guests of Honor, Cosplay Events, and Anime screening rooms. The 2008 convention will also include new and inventive events such as Game Show and The Maid Cafe. This year, many favorites are coming back as well as some new ones. There are going to be very hot bands lined up for MusicFest and big name Guests of Honor. Admission is $45 and up. For more information, visit www.fanime.com.

India Waves Dance Muqabla
May 24
Montgomery Theater
An India Waves Youth Wing community project showcasing dance talents and hosting an open dance competition. Admission is $15-$25. For more information, call 510-487-4988 or visit www.indiawaves.com.

Horizon
May 25
Montgomery Theater
Featuring significant works of past and present exciting performances, including Jim Tsou’s “Moon & Women,” Award Winning “Horizon,” Jin Wen’s “Lazy Man’s Load,” and other memorable performances. Guest choreographers will include Jin Wen Yuk, Jim Tsou, and Carol Abohatab. Admission is $25. For more information, call 408-368-0227 or visit www.dsfdance.org.

Unique Lives & Experiences presents Judy Collins
May 30
Center for the Performing Arts
At 67 years of age, American folk legend Judy Collins has survived divorce, alcoholism, and her son's suicide. Her book Sanity and Grace: A Journey of Suicide, Survival, and Strength, is a deeply moving memoir focusing on the death of her son and her healing process. Most notably known for Joni Mitchell's Both Sides Now, her career has spanned over 40 years and 40 albums. Through her art, music, writing, and meditation, Judy has overcome the adversity and has forged ahead. From her own suicide attempt at 14, to her son's actual suicide and her divorce from her childhood sweetheart, she has found the strength to grow from every experience. Admission is $136-$282. For more information, call 877-882-8124 or visit www.uniquelives.com.

Irene Dalis Vocal Awards Competition
May 31
California Theatre
This unique vocal competition gives up-and-coming opera talent a vehicle to showcase their abilities and compete for cash prizes of up to $15,000. Admission is $20-$200. For more information, call 408-437-4450 or visit www.operasj.org.

Mekeni Tuki Ka: Kapampangan Pride U.S. Tour
May 31
Center for the Performing Arts
Mekeni Tuki Ka: Kapampangan Pride U.S. Tour is a musical production showcasing Kapampangan folk songs and dances. Admission is $20-$32. For more information, call 619-941-2185.

San Jose Youth Symphony Philharmonic Orchestra Season Finale
June 1
California Theatre
In collaboration with The Steinway Society, featuring 1997 Van Cliburn Winner and Guest Artist, Jon Nakamatsu. For more information, call 408-286-2600 or visit www.sjys.org.

The 2nd Biennial 01SJ Global Festival of Art on the Edge
June 4-8
Downtown San Jose
This unique biannual event features transformative and provocative new works from world-renowned artists and performers at the cross-section of contemporary art, technology, and culture. The five-day festival will incorporate exhibitions, films, concerts, performances, happenings, and nightlife occurring throughout downtown San Jose’s parks, public streets, museums, theaters, and clubs. New this year is the Green Prix award for the best example of environmentally friendly art. Admission is free-$100. www.01sj.org.

Metro Music in the Other Park
Thursdays, June 5-26
St. James Park
Summertime comes alive with this popular outdoor concert series, featuring major-league acts every Thursday night in June at the beautiful and historic St. James Park in San Jose. Bring lawn chairs and some friends to one of downtown’s most intimate outdoor concert venues. Performances are from 5:30 p.m.-8:45 p.m. Free Admission. For more information, visit www.sjdowntown.com.

California USA Wrestling’s Kids/Cadet Freestyle State
June 6-8
San Jose McEnery Convention Center
A wrestling competition. Admission is $5-$10. For more information, call 559-275-9478 or visit www.ca-usaw.org.

Symphony Silicon Valley presents Mendelssohn & Rachmaninoff
June 7-8
California Theatre
Benjamin Britten's Peter Grimes: Four Sea Interludes, Felix Mendelssohn's Violin Concerto in E Minor, and Sergei Rachmaninoff's Symphonic Dances. Admission is $36-$72. For more information, call 408-286-2600 or visit www.symphonysiliconvalley.org.

Voices in Harmony presents Now & Then
June 7
Center for the Performing Arts
Voices in Harmony, Northern California’s premier men’s a cappella chorus, presents its CD premier show “Now and Then.” Also featured will be Realtime, the 2005 International Quartet Champions, and the Pride of the Pacific. Admission is $20-$25. For more information, call 1-877-684-3844 or visit www.vihchorus.org.

American Musical Theatre of San Jose presents Disney’s High School Musical
June 10-15
Center for the Performing Arts
This new touring stage adaptation of Disney's High School Musical will be directed by Jeff Calhoun (Big River). The show features a book by David Simpatico (adapted from the original movie script by Peter Barsocchini) and a score including all the songs from the original soundtrack, plus two new songs. The touring company includes a live orchestra and a cast of 34 professional performers. Admission is $19-$74. For more information, call 408-453-7108 or visit www.sjtix.com.

La Arrolladora Banda Limon, Conjunto Primavera, and Montez de Durango
June 14
San Jose McEnery Convention Center
Sonia S. Rodriguez and Promociones Marquez, producers/promoters of Northern California’s grandest Mexican Dance/Concerts, present two spectacular headliners: La Arrolladora Banda Limon and Conjunto Primavera, accompanied by hot new bands such as Montez de Durango, Los Amos de Nuevo Leon, and the ever-so popular Banda Arcangel R-15. The Convention Center is the only venue in Northern California which hosts this many top name bands from Mexico in one spectacular evening, drawing attendees from a 100-mile radius. Admission is $35-$65. For more information, call 408-960-2700 or visit www.elmexicanopresenta.com.

San Jose Pride Parade and Festival
June 14-15
Discovery Meadow
There will be rainbows of events in downtown San Jose, including a parade (route not yet determined), food booths, live music, and entertainment. Saturday is free Family Day. Admission for Sunday is $15 at the door and $10 in advance. For more information, call 831-338-2578 or visit www.sjgaypride.com.

Lyric Theatre presents The Pirates of Penzance
June 21-29
Montgomery Theater
Start with a band of rollicking pirates who get caught with a gaggle of proper maidens, then add in some ridiculous logic, a whimsical major general, the Keystone Cops, and a misplaced sense of duty. The result is a comic masterpiece loved by audiences the world over. Admission is $12-$34. For more information, call 408-986-1455 or visit www.lyrictheatre.org.

MamaFest!
June 28
Parkside Hall
MamaFest! will feature “mamapreneur” type speakers, a career/life coach, and comedy all centered around what it means to be a “mama” today. Attendees will gain insight and tools on how to create a work/life balance. Exhibitors will cater to the “mom” crowd. For more information, visit www.bayareamama.com.

Movie Magic
June 28
Center for the Performing Arts
Dance performance depicting different movies using music from the past and present Hollywood movies. Admission is $20-$25. For more information, call 408-243-4834 or visit www.thedanceaffair.com.

Nor Cal Dance Arts
June 29
California Theatre
Nor Cal Dance Arts’ summer showcase. The NCDA pack is an elite group of audition-only performing teams. This is guaranteed to be a sold-out show, so get tickets fast! Admission is $18-$25. For more information, call 408-923-5300 or visit www.norcaldance.com.

Step Up and Dance
June 29
Center for the Performing Arts
A variety of dance styles – tap, jazz, ballet, and hip-hop – performed by students ages 2 ½ through adults. Beginners, intermediate, advanced, and competitive levels perform a fun, enjoyable show. For more information, call 408-778-1178 or visit www.lanasdancestudio.biz.

Festival for Independence
July 4-6
Downtown San Jose
Enjoy two stages of first-rate musical and cultural entertainment, with arts and crafts from around the world, booths offering savory ethnic foods, and tons of activities for kids. For more information, call 408-298-6861 or visit www.americafestival.com.

Cinema San Pedro
Wednesdays, July 9-August 27
San Pedro Square
Movie fans are encouraged to come together for free movies at dusk in San Pedro Square. These weekly screenings are BYOC - Bring Your Own Chair. Attendees can sit back and relax, grab a snack or dinner, and then watch a classic movie. It’s best to arrive early, not only for the best seat, but to participate in fun games and amusing antics. Free Admission. For more information, visit www.sjdowntown.com.

Metro Music in the Park
Thursdays, July 10-September 4
Plaza de Cesar Chavez
Celebrating 20 years of outdoor concerts in the heart of downtown San Jose, artists from local to international stature will grace the stage at Plaza de Cesar Chavez and perform music from a variety of genres. Join in the celebration and enjoy one of downtown San Jose’s most anticipated concert series. Performances are from 5:30 p.m.-8:45 p.m. Free Admission. For more information, visit www.sjdowntown.com.

San Jose Bodybuilding, Fitness, & Figure Championships
July 12
South Hall
The 28th Annual National Physique Committee (NPC) San Jose Bodybuilding, Fitness, & Figure Championships features men, women, and teenage competitors. Also featured are IFBB Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman and International Federation of Body Building (IFBB) Iron Man Tony Freeman. All athletes will be competing for the prestigious San Jose title to qualify for the USA Championship. Admission is $20-$38. For more information, call 408-238-7413 or visit www.paullovesvproductions.com.

Cinema St. James
Saturdays, July 19-August 23
St. James Park
Film enthusiasts can check out for free movies at dusk in St. James Park. These weekly screenings are BYOC - Bring Your Own Chair. Attendees can sit back and relax, grab a snack or dinner, and then watch a classic movie. It’s best to arrive early, not only for the best seat, but to participate in fun games and amusing antics. Free Admission. For more information, visit www.sjdowntown.com.


CONVENTIONS


Reliv Leadership Conference
May 2-3
Civic Auditorium
Since its founding in 1988, Reliv International has dedicated itself to making complex nutrition simple. Reliv distributors and guests gather for recognition, training workshops, and networking opportunities. Tasks include Reliv products, the business opportunity, and Reliv’s charitable foundation. Admission is $40. For more information, call 1-800-RELIV-US or visit www.reliv.com.

CLEO/QELS & PhAST
May 4-9
San Jose McEnery Convention Center
With a distinguished history as one of the industry’s leading events on laser science, the Conference on Lasers and Electro-Optics and the Quantum Electronics and Laser Science Conference (CLEO/QELS) is where laser technology was first introduced. CLEO/QELS combines the strength of peer-reviewed scientific programming with an applications-focused exhibition to showcase the present and future of the technology. For more information, visit www.cleoconference.org.

Project Homeless Connect 6
May 15
San Jose McEnery Convention Center
Resource fair for people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Resources include medical, mental, dental, job, educational, and other services. For more information, visit www.sjhousing.org/homeless/phc.html.

VMware Virtualization Forum 2008
May 15
San Jose McEnery Convention Center
The VMware Virtualization Forum is one of the most important regional virtualization events of the year, designed to help attendees learn about the benefits of a virtual infrastructure and discover why over 100,000 IT organizations use VMware products to address key business objectives, such as server consolidation, desktop security, remote office management, reduced power and cooling costs, business continuity, and software lifecycle automation. Free Admission. For more information, visit www.vmware.com/go/vforum2008_events.

National Association of Orthopedic Nurses (NAON)
May 17-21
San Jose McEnery Convention Center
The NAON will provide continuing education on current issues, trends, and practices in orthopedic health care. For more information, visit www.orthonurse.org.

Connect Publications Medical Career Fair
May 28
San Jose McEnery Convention Center
Medical career fair for licensed Registered Nurses, Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, Speech Pathologists, and new graduates. For more information, visit www.connectpubs.com.

AAMI 2008 Conference & Expo
May 31 – June 2
San Jose McEnery Convention Center
The premier conference for healthcare technology management attended by more than 1,500 Biomedical Equipment Technology Managers, Clinical Engineers, Biomedical Engineers, Asset Managers, and others who support and manage medical equipment for healthcare facilities. Admission is $695-$880. For more information, visit www.aami.org/ac.

Greenfair Silicon Valley
June 7-8
South Hall
Greenfair Silicon Valley is a two-day exhibit showcasing channels to green one’s business, home, and life. It will include exhibitors who can help with green transformation, “how-to” seminars, keynote lectures, and an organic beer and wine garden. Greenfair Silicon Valley helps anyone become ecologically aware and proactive. Admission is $5-$10. For more information, visit www.greenfairsiliconvalley.com.

2008 California Health Information Association (CHIA) Convention & Exhibit
June 15-18
San Jose McEnery Convention Center
The 2008 CHIA State Convention & Exhibit is the premier event for California’s Health Information Management (HIM) professionals. Convention educational sessions will address important HIM topics including legal and operational aspects of electronic and personal health records, coding, regulatory issues, and more. Exhibits include the latest HIM products and services. For more information, call 559-251-5038 or visit www.californiahia.org/content/convention2008.cfm.


LOOKING AHEAD


Comcast San Jose Jazz Festival presented by Southwest Airlines
August 8-10
www.sanjosejazz.org


6th Annual Electronic Sports World Cup Grand Final
August 25-27
www.eswc.com


Tapestry Arts Festival
August 30-September 1
www.tapestryarts.org


Fiesta Patrias/Mexican Independence Day
September 14
www.sjgif.org


San Jose International Mariachi Festival
September 24-28
www.mhcviva.org


Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon – San Jose
October 5
www.rnrsj.com


Downtown Ice
November 21-January 19
www.sjdowntown.com/eve_eve_ice.html


Winter Wonderland
November 26-January 4
www.giantcreative.com


Christmas in the Park
November 27-January 1
www.christmasinthepark.com


About Team San Jose
Team San Jose's mission is to ensure that San Jose's Convention Center and Cultural Facilities are effectively managed to reduce costs, improve the local economy, and add value for our customers, residents, workers, and businesses within the City of San Jose. Team San Jose's board includes local hoteliers, organized labor, the arts and the Convention & Visitors Bureau.

About The San Jose Convention & Visitors Bureau (SJCVB)
The San Jose Convention & Visitors Bureau (SJCVB) mission is to enhance the image and economic well being of San Jose by marketing San Jose as a globally recognized destination. The SJCVB offers meeting planners, tour operators, and individual visitors a wide range of services to ensure a successful event and fun visit to San Jose. To receive a copy of the Bureau's Meeting Planning Guide or Official Visitors Guide, please contact the SJCVB at 1.800.SAN.JOSE (1.800.726.5673) or visit http://www.sanjose.org.