Rose Ensemble ready for Prohibition performance
Published 8:24 am Wednesday, November 16, 2011
The Rose Ensemble is coming back to the Paramount Theatre, but it’s not the same old show people know and love.
The St. Paul-based group known for its medieval music and 17th century songs is delving into more recent history with “Songs of Temperance and Temptation,” an examination of Minnesota’s 19th and 20th century fixation with Prohibition.
“It is a very visual show,” said Jordan Sramek, artistic director. Sramek came up with the show several years ago after a thought struck him: Why can’t Minnesotans buy a bottle of wine on Sunday?
From there, Sramek researched Minnesota’s history with Prohibition and alcohol, finding out the important role the state played in the Prohibition era.
Sramek called “Songs of Temperance and Temptation” more of a Prohibition musical, as the production features staging, costumes and even Irving Berlin songs — things the Rose Ensemble doesn’t normally do.
The Rose Ensemble will perform at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 17 at the Paramount. They will also be working with Austin High School and Riverland students throughout the day as part of their educational program.
“We like to reinvest in the community,” said Karoline Nauss, marketing director for the Rose Ensemble.
Tickets are $12 for adults, $9 for students and seniors with ID.