There are numerous trails and parks found in the greater Sacramento area. With a large variation in terrain and difficulty, there’s no need to go to the coast or all the way up to the Sierra Nevadas. Area trails and parks are somewhat unknown and this lack of experiences makes it seem like some of these places are not worth going to. This is where Recreational Equipment Inc., better known as REI, comes in. REI provides an opportunity to develop skills with a knowledgeable instructor. In the Sacramento area, REI’s Outdoor School has been steadily developing for the past few years. REI offers numerous classes every month and is still adding new classes. There is a wide variety of classes o

The UC Davis Symphony Orchestra and Department of Theare & Dance put on a great opera at the Mondavi Center on Friday, “Bela Bartók: Bluebeard's Castle.” The opera was translated into English by Peter Bartok. The opera stars Gregory Stapp as Duke Bluebeard and Jessica Medoff as Judith. The opera is fully staged and performed in one act. It opens with a completely dark stage and slowly opens to a bard (played by Barry Hubbard) standing under a spotlight, giving the audience an introduction. When the bard leaves the light dims and the stage is enveloped in darkness, foreshadowing the rest of play. As Judith and Bluebeard enter the castle, Judith is hesitant and wants to stay in the sunligh

The UC Davis Symphony Orchestra played a great rendition of “Concerto for Violin, Cello, and Orchestra in A minor, op 102” composed by Johannes Brahms, and “Symphony No. 7 in C Major, op. 105 composed by Jean Sibelius” this pass Sunday. It’s easy to see why they were invited to tour the great symphony halls in Spain next year after such a great performance. The first half had a more classical feel, while the second half was more “organic.” The concert also featured two talented soloists, Andrea Segar and David Russell. The “Concerto for Violin, Cello, and Orchestra in A minor” features three movements: Allegro, Adante and Vivace non troppo conducted by D. Kern Holoman. The opening move

“Cinderella” is a classic story for little girls, but the production put on by Runaway Stage Productions’ Storybook Theatre at the 24th Street Theater is a family show. It will keep the kids happy and the adults laughing. The production follows the general story of “Cinderella” but strays so that the actors can interact with the children. There was pretty even mix in the audience, so adults won’t feel out of place if they bring kids or if they decided to sneak off and enjoy it on their own. Keep your ears open for witty lines from the Prime Minister and the Duke. The Duke, played by Christopher Saechao, and the Prime Minister, played by Kevin Sowles, provide most of the comedy for adults.