PHS Alum Brings Smooth Criminal Strings to Cirque's Michael Jackson's IMMORTAL Tour

It's described as electrifying, fantastical and riveting.

But for one graduate—it's something much more.

Cellist Tina Guo, who graduated in 2004, is returning to the region by taking center stage at Cirque du Soleil's Michael Jackson's IMMORTAL World Tour show.

"Every occurrence, collaboration, experience is something to learn and grow from," said Guo of the show directed by Jamie King. "There are so many masters of various disciplines here, a giant orgy of talent and passion—I try to be a sponge as much as possible to take it all in and expand my being with new knowledge and perspicacity."

Guo, who joined the popular Canadian entertainment company last year, will perform with an electric cello and also offer audiences the opportunity to hear one of her original compositions. In other parts of the show, she'll perform hits like Smooth Criminal, Earth Song and Billie Jean with the band, and do a "battle" performance with a guitarist during Beat It.

The PHS alum—who went on to the University of Southern California's Classical Cello Performance with a full-ride scholarship and grew up with two parents who were classical teachers—is currently residing in Los Angeles. She said she hopes to continue to grow in the industry and has even released an album.

"My newest album that was just released through my own label, Guo Industries, but distributed through Universal is called THE JOURNEY and is a multi-genre album ranging from traditional classical, to new age... a bit of electronica, and metal," she said. "Next, I want to put out an industrial metal record, really focusing in on that genre, with guest singers for each track.  I also have worked on many film, television, and game scores, and would like to do more composition and recording as well."

"I have my studio with me on the road and try to spend as much time as possible writing and recording music in our off time."

Powegians can see Guo when the show arrives in San Diego on Jan. 21-22. To learn more about Cirque or to purchase tickets, visit Cirquedusoleil.com/MichaelJackson.

To learn more about Guo, visit Tinaguo.com/.

Back in Poway, is showing Panache beginning Friday untll Feb. 5. The comedy by Don Gordon, directed by Sherrie Colbourn, and produced by Chris and Brenda Robinson, tells the story of a love affair between 40-somethings Harry Baldwin and Kathleen Trafalgar.

Over at , the city will host "Art in the Park" on Monday, Jan. 16 beginning at 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. The family-friendly event will allow attendees to create their own art pieces for free. Other upcoming dates for Art in the Park include Feb. 20 and April. 2.