Cal Poly Arts presents two highly-entertaining shows on the very same day: Comedic juggling superstar Mark Nizer and "American Idol" star Melinda Doolittle. 

Comedic juggling superstar Mark Nizer
Mark Nizer makes the improbable probable; the impossible – possible. Since winning several International Juggling Championships, Nizer has taken his one-man show to thousands of venues around the world, including The Kennedy Center and three encore engagements at Lincoln Center.  

On March 19, at 11 a.m. in the Alex & Faye Spanos Theatre, Cal Poly Arts presents "Mark Nizer: Live in 3-D," complete with 3-D glasses available at the door. 

Entertainment Magazine states, "Without a doubt – the hottest juggler on the entertainment market. Mark Nizer is simply incredible."

Considered one of the greatest entertainment comedians and jugglers performing today,  Nizer's invention of new juggling tricks and juggling technologies combined with his unique wit have set him apart from his peers. Audiences of all ages thrill to Nizer's original comedy, world-class juggling, movement, music, and technology that promises a spellbinding show, with many amazing 3-D effects.  

Whether juggling laser beams at 1000 rpms, shooting five ping-pong balls 20 feet in the air using only his mouth, or even juggling a burning propane tank, a running electric carving knife, or a 16-pound bowling ball, it's clear why Performance Magazine called his show "nothing less than brilliant."

Nizer's wild exploits have landed him on MTV, HBO’s "Just for Laughs," "Comic Strip Live," and on stage at The Improv, The Comedy Store, and Walt Disney World.  He's opened for major headliners like Jerry Seinfeld and even did a show for the O.J. Simpson jury.  Later this season, he will be touring with Barry Manilow.  
 
All seats are $18 adults/$14 students and children.

'American Idol' Superstar Melinda Doolittle
Melinda Doolittle became a household name as a Season Six Top Three Finalist on the mega-hit talent search show, “American Idol.” She has continued to exponentially increase her fan base: first, with her critically-acclaimed debut album, “Coming Back to You,” and again with the release of her first book, “Beyond Me.”

Cal Poly Arts is pleased to present Melinda Doolittle in an intimate, engaging R&B solo concert on March 19 at 8 p.m. in the Alex & Faye Spanos Theatre.

The New York Times reported, “Ms. Doolittle has a radiant voice, an urgent singing style, and a knack for classic R&B…Phenomenally gifted.”

Doolittle’s comparison to music greats like Aretha Franklin, Tina Turner, and Gladys Knight is inevitable, given her wondrous interpretive vocal powers and the passion she exudes in her music.

Her hit CD, “Coming Back to You” – filled with a retro-soul feel, live instruments, positive lyrics, and powerhouse vocals – garnered rave reviews from critics who declared that Doolittle has emerged as one of the most authentic new ambassadors of R&B.  

In her book, Doolittle shares poignant, often humorous stories that reveal life lessons; she gives practical guidance to overcome personal obstacles and achieve the next level in any area of life.

Since her time on "Idol" and her transition into the spotlight, Doolittle has wowed audiences everywhere with her big voice and soulful performances – from engagements at the White House and Musicians Hall of Fame, to the Kennedy Center and “The Today Show.”

When not performing, Doolittle dedicates much of her time to working with numerous charities, especially those that center on improving the lives of children, such as the Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital, Ronald McDonald House, and The League, which promotes involvement in community service among children.  

She also works extensively with the charity Malaria No More and has traveled to Africa twice, once as a presidential delegate and once with former First Lady Laura Bush, bringing awareness to the preventable disease that annually takes the lives of over 1 million children under the age of five.  

The Melinda Doolittle concert is sponsored by Clayhouse Wines. Tickets are $36 for adults; $29 for students.

More information can be found at www.calpolyarts.org.