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Organizers cast light on Pittsburgh's First Night plans
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Neon is used to accent a giant puppet that will be part of First Night festivities New Year's Eve.
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Assuming the Maya are incorrect and civilization doesn't end, Pittsburgh and the rest of the world will welcome 2013 with lavish festivities.
And this year, Pittsburgh's celebration will include even more lights.
The region's largest New Year Eve's celebration again will feature its signature arts offerings, including dance, music, theater, comedy, magic, visual art and film and more.
Produced by the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust and sponsored by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, First Night will begin at 6 p.m. with a children's fireworks display and performance by "American Idol" semifinalist and Pittsburgh native Adam Brock, accompanied by the local Soul Band.
The 8 p.m. parade will feature fanfare from marching bands to giant puppets, created by parade director Cheryl Capezzuti of Studio Capezzuti.
This year, the march features the element of light, and, for the first time, Ms. Capezzuti will be assisted by a lighting technician and choreographer for the puppets. Planners on Tuesday debuted a pair of the jaunty, giant creatures at a news conference.
Grand marshals Curt Woottan and Chris Preksta of the hit short film series "Pittsburgh Dad" will lead the parade.
New Orleans legends Dirty Dozen Brass Band will headline a performance at 10:45 p.m. and the evening will conclude with the midnight countdown and annual the raising of "The Future of Pittsburgh" ball and fireworks.
This year marks a decade that the Cultural Trust has produced First Night, now in its 18th year.
Events are open to those wearing "all-access" buttons, available for $8 in advance at participating Giant Eagle locations, the Box Office at Theater Square or by calling 412-456-6666. Buttons are $10 at the door. Children younger than 5 are free.
Some events require special vouchers, which will be available for free at the Theater Square box office starting next week. Printable vouchers also will available for the first time online at www.firstnightpgh.org.
With one button, attendees can reserve one voucher for a performance of each attraction.
First Published December 5, 2012 12:00 am
