By Val Renner, Akron Civic Theatre

January is upon us and we are very excited to start our 2012 shows out with three shows that highlight the diversity among local artists here in Northeastern Ohio. Devo, Chrissie Hynde and the Black Keys had to start somewhere and these three very talented acts could get their big breaks here at the Civic during the Local Artist Showcase on January 21st.

The lineup includes Madison Cummins, who will be making her Civic stage debut with her soulful acoustic sound. Also featured is Ashley Brooke Toussant, who is no stranger to the Civic stage having recently opened for country legend Don Williams. Ms. Toussant’ alt-country set will feature songs from her recently-released album Sweetheart. Rounding out the evening will be Unseen Masterpiece, an all-folk and jazz group that has been delighting audiences all over Northeast Ohio. The trio will be performing songs from their recently released album Couches & Castles.

After this show, comes another local programming of Jazz@ The Civic with Forecast on January 27th. Forecast is a sassy jazz group from Cleveland and last, but not least, ZOBAPAGO will return on January 29th. ZOBAPAGO embodies dynamic entertainment and educational material that relate to topics of a child’s everyday life, with a focus on science, health and hygiene. The audience will be transported to Zobapa-Dopolis where characters such as TaxiMan Zan and Quizzical Lizzy will entertain and educate them on a healthy way of life. We love to have the opportunity to showcase and present some of the local talent that Northeast Ohio has to offer!