`BARNUM' WILL KICK OFF SEASON AT SIU'S SHRYOCK AUDITORIUM

CARBONDALE, Ill. -- The Tony-award winning musical "Barnum!" leads the parade of live performing arts and entertainment this season at Shryock Auditorium at Southern Illinois University at Carbondale.

"Barnum!" will turn the dome of Shryock into a big top for a night at the circus, opening the 26th Celebrity Season at Shryock on Sept. 10.

The production is based on the life and times of P.T. Barnum, the undisputed king of sideshow entertainment.

On Sept. 28, classical music with Chicago's finest blues harmonica of Siegal/Schwall Band fame, "Corky Siegel's Chamber Blues," comes to the auditorium.

Appearing Oct. 8 is Joel Grey. Grey is perhaps best known for his role in "Cabaret" with Liza Minelli.

On Oct. 13, pianist George Wilson will present his "Winter Show," performing inspired rural folk selections from his seasonal recordings, plus his own brand of rhythm and blues.

The Glasnost Ballet will perform traditional works from the repertoire on Nov. 12, and The Nutcracker Ballet, performed by the Springfield Ballet, is scheduled for Nov. 23.