Elgin vocalist to perform to support Janus Theatre

Janus Theatre will present Arcanta, a benefit concert by Elgin native Thom Ayres at 8 p.m., Saturday.

The show will feature the new release of the Book of Mirrors album, and be performed for one night only at the Elgin Art Showcase, 164 Division St., on the eighth floor of the Professional Building.

All proceeds will go to the Janus Theatre to help fund its 2007-2008 season.

Arcanta has be called pop, rock, classical, new age and world music. Songs may be in English, Sanskrit, or Latin, but most often the voice is used purely as an instrument. Though Arcanta is widely known for its ritualistic and live performances, studio releases have been rare and often hard to find.

Book of Mirrors is a new album, which brings in new musical partner and collaborator, Julian West.

Compact discs of the album will be on sale after the concert.

For more than 15 years, Arcanta vocalist Ayres has produced music that is meditative using vocals as the heart of Arcanta's sound. Ayres has nationally and internationally. Locally, he's performed at the Vic Theatre, The Empty Bottle, Randolph Street Gallery and Unity Church.

Tickets cost $20. There will be a post-show reception following the concert with refreshments.

Reservations can be made by calling (847) 931-0637. For more information, visit janustheatre.org. or visit www.myspace.com/arcantamusic.