Alta Mira CD Release Experiment

As we recently suggested in a review of their eponymous debut LP, Alta Mira dole out their rock in dramatic proportions. It should come as no surprise, then, that the Albany band couldn’t simply settle for some namby-pampy CD release “party.” What precisely the thesis is for this “experiment,” we can’t say, but expect that, perfectionists as they are, the scientific method will be strictly adhered to.

Some variables are known: Joining Alta Mira will be fellow area musicians Railbird, Matthew Loiacono, and Indian Ledge Records labelmate Matt Durfee. Both the second and third dimensions will be plumbed with the help of video and installation artists. And, to make sure any and all findings pass the test of peer review, admission comes complete with a copy of Alta Mira’s new record.

The Alta Mira CD Release Experiment happens at Revolution Hall (425 River St., Troy) on Saturday (Dec. 5) at 7 PM. Tickets are $10. Call 274-0553 for more info.

Albany Symphony Orchestra

Whether you’re already brimming with holiday spirit or you need a little kick in the cheer, the Albany Symphony Orchestra has just the ticket. The ASO’s Magic of Christmas concert has become a local holiday tradition, with enough Christmas spirit to grow even the grinchiest heart by three sizes.

Alongside the ASO, this year’s concert features appearances from familiar guests from the Music Studio Orchestra, the Capital District Youth Chorale, Campbell School’s Irish Step Dancers, Talented Tap, and the Bethlehem Lutheran Church Bell Choir, as well as a few newcomers, including flamenco guitarist Maria Zemantauski, dancer Lisa Martinez and Albany Pro Musica.

And, of course, don’t forget Santa, Mrs. Claus and the elves!

The Albany Symphony Orchestra will perform at the Palace Theatre (19 Clinton Ave., Albany) on Saturday (Dec. 5) at 7:30 PM and Sunday (Dec. 6) at 3 PM. Tickets are $25, $12 for children ages 15 and under. For more info, call 465-4755.

Photo: Marcie Dodd

Wicked

“So much happened before Dorothy dropped in.” It’s not often that the tagline from a Broadway musical becomes a recognizable morsel of pop culture, but Wicked, the musical megahit based on Gregory Maguire’s novel, is no common musical.

The story of the friendship and rivalry between the “good” and “bad” witches of L. Frank Baum’s magical land of Oz, Wicked has broken box-office records around the world and won 26 major awards, including a Grammy, three Tony Awards and six Drama Desk Awards.

USA Today called it “the most complete and completely satisfying new musical in a long time,” and The New York Times declared it “Broadway’s biggest blockbuster.”

Lucky for us, the witches are dropping in for a long holiday visit, when the national tour comes to Proctors this week. Tickets to the other side of the rainbow are selling at a whirlwind pace, so snap them up before it’s too late.

Wicked opens at Proctor’s Theater (432 State St., Schenectady) on Wednesday (Dec. 9) at 8 PM and runs through Jan. 3. For a complete performance schedule, and ticket prices, call 346-6204.