Ah, yes the cognoscenti know them. Those “theatre people”, both professional or community players who enhance both their lives and ours creating entertainment in live theatre. There are some special shows that bond the ensemble into one joyous and selfless entity.
“Funny Thing... Forum”, “The Fantasticks”, “Joseph...Dreamcoat” are three. Add one more... now that “Rent”has become available for licensing. Most definitely this last title has an edgier message than, say Forum, where Pseudolus (the Zero Mostel character) runs around ogling skimpily dressed courtesans. “Rent” deals with AIDS and is set in the '90's when all of us felt the Black Death had converged on the world.
There is no doubt this cast loves one another and will remember this experience the rest of their lives. We saw it in their faces.
Director Chris Turner has done a magnificent job in casting and staging this Delaware premiere. This is rock opera (think JC SUPERSTAR). It is more difficult a task to keep a large cast moving and relating to the lyrics of the music when there is no dialog. Turner kept his cast engaged and credible and made us feel the power of the lyrics and the emotion.
Another interesting element of the direction was Turner's naturalistic approach. Normally actors 'cheat' toward the audience to declaim their lines and sing their tunes. Turner had his ensemble speak directly to one another, no matter even if a back was turned away.
Turner was able to break down inhibitions of his cast; another achievement. To understate, the dancing at times becomes very suggestive and kisses are exchanged between members of the same sex. Yet, it all flowed and was organic.
This is a rock opera. It is loud. This is an enclosed space. The five person on stage band headed by Matt Caserino did a fantastic job with the work. Yes, once in a while the sound overpowered the lyrics.
The back story of “Rent” makes it all the more powerful. Composer Jonathan Larson worked for years on this update of Puccini's La Boheme. The night before opening he died of an aneurysm. That's as substantial a piece of Broadway legend as it gets.
Roger (Brendan Sheehan) had just come off an evocative performance of Anthony in City Theatre's “Sweeney Todd”. He sang beautiful ballads there. The young man not only is a thoughtful actor but exhibited huge rock pipes in an outstanding performance.
Tom (Timothy Lamont Cannon) and Angel (Matt Bennis) even more than the characters Roger and Mimi are the heart of the show. The feeling the two shared for one another was palpable. When Angel succumbs to AIDS, Tom's reaction glazed the eyes of more than one audience member.
Maureen (former Miss Delaware Laura Moss) gives a stirring over the top rock edged rendition of “Over The Moon.”
WDL is to be congratulated for this production. It is a daring and provocative affair. The cast, under Music Director Casarino, handles the shows most popular tunes “Without You”, “One Song Glory”, “Light My Candle” and the most mesmerizing “Seasons of Love” with love and tenderness.
One of the highest compliments that Aisle Say can deliver is that he would see this again.
Til February 13 WilmingtonDramaLeague.org 764.1172
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
UD's REP Ensemble "She Stoops To Conquer"
Great theater is in the minute detail. Comedy is far more difficult than drama to engage an audience. It takes greater nuance to sell a laugh line than one of emotion. It takes a craftsman to deliver that special 'take' or facial expression to provoke surprise and elicit laughter.
Refer to Lucille Ball on a weekly basis in the '50's or Aisle Say's personal favorite, Sally Fields in “Mrs Doubtfire” in the restaurant scene with her children and her beau, played by Pierce Brosnan. Robin Williams cross dressing Nannie is becoming undone. He just saved Pierce's character with a Heimlich maneuver and his prosthetic makeup dissembles in front of the family.
Sallie's character is unable to consciously process what is going on in front of her bulging eyes. She goes through an incredible series of emotions in twenty seconds; from disbelief, to anger, to embarrassment and back again. Now, there's a comedienne at the zenith of her craft.
Admittedly, a long intro to UD REP's “She Stoops To Conquer”, a vibrant and lush production of the classic comedy of manners written by Oliver Goldsmith and first performed in London in 1773. However, erudite, side splitting and breath taking laughter endures through the ages.
Charles Marlow, an aristocrat, (Michael Gotch) travels from city to country to meet and court landowner Mr. Hardcastle's (Mark Corkins) daughter Kate (Elizabeth Heflin). The venerable Mrs. Hardcastle (Kathleen Pirkl Tague) is a stereotypical snooty and condescending self absorbed lady of leisure; (attired in the biggest bustle and Marge Simpson-like wig ever strode upon Delaware stage.)
Marlowe is obsessively uncomfortable around upper class women; stuttering of speech and unable to make eye contact. Yet he is a rogue and scalawag amongst low class women. Kate elects to 'stoop to conquer', pretending to be a serving girl in order to wed the man.
Gotch is a reincarnated “Rain Man'. His 'takes', along with those of Mrs. Hardcastle, are classic; reminiscent of the Sallie Fields/Lucy variety. In the second act, when he is told that the serving girl (Kate) is actually upper class, he had the entire packed audience involuntarily jump forward in their seats with a spontaneous reversion to his first act neuroses.
Having seen every one of the REP Productions in the past 2 years, Aisle Say's great expectations every opening night are never burst. This specific show has had resonance over the past 237 years because it's simply down right funny. It is not only enjoyable but fascinating to see this talented group of actors don completely different characters.
Often in reviews, the technical aspects of the show are dismissed. One would be 'remiss' not to applaud not only the design creativity but also the textures and colors employed by costume designer Matthew LeFebvre. From his bio, it appears he has made a career in the past ten years of designing for classic theatre.
Special effects also were employed with slap stick results. The prim Mrs. Hardcastle is thrown down a deep well and, upon reaching the bottom, water splashes on stage.
Til February 20 Pttp.udel.edu 302.831.2206
INSTRUMENT SALE AT UD THIS WEEKEND
A large selection of Grand pianos, baby grands, violins, guitars, electronic keyboards, etc will be available at very discounted prices this weekend at The Roselle Center for the Performing Arts.
UD does this yearly to rotate into new equipment. 45% of the purchase price is tax deductible.
For info: 731.4137.
Refer to Lucille Ball on a weekly basis in the '50's or Aisle Say's personal favorite, Sally Fields in “Mrs Doubtfire” in the restaurant scene with her children and her beau, played by Pierce Brosnan. Robin Williams cross dressing Nannie is becoming undone. He just saved Pierce's character with a Heimlich maneuver and his prosthetic makeup dissembles in front of the family.
Sallie's character is unable to consciously process what is going on in front of her bulging eyes. She goes through an incredible series of emotions in twenty seconds; from disbelief, to anger, to embarrassment and back again. Now, there's a comedienne at the zenith of her craft.
Admittedly, a long intro to UD REP's “She Stoops To Conquer”, a vibrant and lush production of the classic comedy of manners written by Oliver Goldsmith and first performed in London in 1773. However, erudite, side splitting and breath taking laughter endures through the ages.
Charles Marlow, an aristocrat, (Michael Gotch) travels from city to country to meet and court landowner Mr. Hardcastle's (Mark Corkins) daughter Kate (Elizabeth Heflin). The venerable Mrs. Hardcastle (Kathleen Pirkl Tague) is a stereotypical snooty and condescending self absorbed lady of leisure; (attired in the biggest bustle and Marge Simpson-like wig ever strode upon Delaware stage.)
Marlowe is obsessively uncomfortable around upper class women; stuttering of speech and unable to make eye contact. Yet he is a rogue and scalawag amongst low class women. Kate elects to 'stoop to conquer', pretending to be a serving girl in order to wed the man.
Gotch is a reincarnated “Rain Man'. His 'takes', along with those of Mrs. Hardcastle, are classic; reminiscent of the Sallie Fields/Lucy variety. In the second act, when he is told that the serving girl (Kate) is actually upper class, he had the entire packed audience involuntarily jump forward in their seats with a spontaneous reversion to his first act neuroses.
Having seen every one of the REP Productions in the past 2 years, Aisle Say's great expectations every opening night are never burst. This specific show has had resonance over the past 237 years because it's simply down right funny. It is not only enjoyable but fascinating to see this talented group of actors don completely different characters.
Often in reviews, the technical aspects of the show are dismissed. One would be 'remiss' not to applaud not only the design creativity but also the textures and colors employed by costume designer Matthew LeFebvre. From his bio, it appears he has made a career in the past ten years of designing for classic theatre.
Special effects also were employed with slap stick results. The prim Mrs. Hardcastle is thrown down a deep well and, upon reaching the bottom, water splashes on stage.
Til February 20 Pttp.udel.edu 302.831.2206
INSTRUMENT SALE AT UD THIS WEEKEND
A large selection of Grand pianos, baby grands, violins, guitars, electronic keyboards, etc will be available at very discounted prices this weekend at The Roselle Center for the Performing Arts.
UD does this yearly to rotate into new equipment. 45% of the purchase price is tax deductible.
For info: 731.4137.
Monday, January 25, 2010
New Candlelight's HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL
As with every arts organization, New Candlelight is seeking pathways to a younger audience down sylvan Arden way. It did not take long for Disney to turn their deliriously successful teen-driven TV phenomenon, “High School Musical” into a stage show. Ergo, the Delaware premiere of the musical which runs through February 27.
The plot has gravitas similar to the excruciating tension as to who will buy Laurie's covered dish in OKLAHOMA. In fact, the story line makes Disney's first animated cartoon, Mickey Mouse in “Steamboat Willie”, seem like 'War and Peace' in comparison. The sugary fluff on top of the crème brulee offered by one of the 'jocks' (Jordan Weagraff) to his unrequited love, Sharpay Evans, (Jenna Angeloni) has more substance than the sophomoric dialog conceived by the authors. (All sophomores I know would be offended).
But Troy and Gabriella will live on past Aisle Say on stage and screen and be forever memorialized as the bridge of amelioration between 'The Jocks” and “The Brainiacs” of East High School. Now that's a legacy! (Where are Tony and Maria from “West Side Story” when you need them?)
As with every production New Candlelight has staged in its two years, the cast is unequivocally exuberant and enthusiastic. NCT veteran Dann Dunn, a skilled and creative choreographer, assumed the reins of director as well.
All of the dance numbers worked but “Get Your Head In The Game”, sung by the basketball players. The mind-numbing redundancy of the title lyrics allied with the fact that none of the actors ever played the game competitively dramatically leavened the high energy and rah-rah attitude the dance was attempting to capture.
Troy Bolton (Josh Bernaski) played a strong leading man conflicted between athletics and love. His father, the stereotypical myopic Coach Bolton, (Bob Miller) is pressuring him to be the 'man' for the championship game. Yet he met Gabriella Montez (Becca Lee) during the summer (think “Grease”) and his macho facade is dissembling quicker than Tiger Woods' endorsements. Bernaski would do well with more engagement of the audience with eye contact, but generally his role was solid.
Lee as Gabriella exhibited more depth to her character and has a stage charm that all actors aspire toward. It's a quality that is innate in this very amorphous craft of acting. There is some chemistry between the two romancers as they converse. Their voices sit well and they light up the stage during their duet of “Breaking Free”, the song that serves as the metaphor for the show; i.e. Breaking free from stereotypes.
Brother sister act Ryan and Sharpay ((Bradley Vile) and (Angeloni) play over the top drama king and queen respectively. Angeloni has the meatier role and never drops character. She was an audience favorite. Both, however, are accomplished singers and dancers. And - restating the aforementioned tension of the plot - in the final scene we are told why her canine name! I will treasure that moment.
Two of the dancers, Nicki Curmaci and Jessica O'Brien, showed us high kicks only The Rockettes could achieve.
It would be helpful if NCT could attach names to the head shots in the lobby. All actors want to be recognized; that's a tenet of theatre. The other tenet is the value of dinner and musical theatre.....at $55.00 per. My dear sister Liz and I continue to enjoy the bonhomie of the new friends we meet at our table with every show.
NewCandlelightTheatre.com 302.475.2313 Until February 27.
The plot has gravitas similar to the excruciating tension as to who will buy Laurie's covered dish in OKLAHOMA. In fact, the story line makes Disney's first animated cartoon, Mickey Mouse in “Steamboat Willie”, seem like 'War and Peace' in comparison. The sugary fluff on top of the crème brulee offered by one of the 'jocks' (Jordan Weagraff) to his unrequited love, Sharpay Evans, (Jenna Angeloni) has more substance than the sophomoric dialog conceived by the authors. (All sophomores I know would be offended).
But Troy and Gabriella will live on past Aisle Say on stage and screen and be forever memorialized as the bridge of amelioration between 'The Jocks” and “The Brainiacs” of East High School. Now that's a legacy! (Where are Tony and Maria from “West Side Story” when you need them?)
As with every production New Candlelight has staged in its two years, the cast is unequivocally exuberant and enthusiastic. NCT veteran Dann Dunn, a skilled and creative choreographer, assumed the reins of director as well.
All of the dance numbers worked but “Get Your Head In The Game”, sung by the basketball players. The mind-numbing redundancy of the title lyrics allied with the fact that none of the actors ever played the game competitively dramatically leavened the high energy and rah-rah attitude the dance was attempting to capture.
Troy Bolton (Josh Bernaski) played a strong leading man conflicted between athletics and love. His father, the stereotypical myopic Coach Bolton, (Bob Miller) is pressuring him to be the 'man' for the championship game. Yet he met Gabriella Montez (Becca Lee) during the summer (think “Grease”) and his macho facade is dissembling quicker than Tiger Woods' endorsements. Bernaski would do well with more engagement of the audience with eye contact, but generally his role was solid.
Lee as Gabriella exhibited more depth to her character and has a stage charm that all actors aspire toward. It's a quality that is innate in this very amorphous craft of acting. There is some chemistry between the two romancers as they converse. Their voices sit well and they light up the stage during their duet of “Breaking Free”, the song that serves as the metaphor for the show; i.e. Breaking free from stereotypes.
Brother sister act Ryan and Sharpay ((Bradley Vile) and (Angeloni) play over the top drama king and queen respectively. Angeloni has the meatier role and never drops character. She was an audience favorite. Both, however, are accomplished singers and dancers. And - restating the aforementioned tension of the plot - in the final scene we are told why her canine name! I will treasure that moment.
Two of the dancers, Nicki Curmaci and Jessica O'Brien, showed us high kicks only The Rockettes could achieve.
It would be helpful if NCT could attach names to the head shots in the lobby. All actors want to be recognized; that's a tenet of theatre. The other tenet is the value of dinner and musical theatre.....at $55.00 per. My dear sister Liz and I continue to enjoy the bonhomie of the new friends we meet at our table with every show.
NewCandlelightTheatre.com 302.475.2313 Until February 27.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
RENT at Wilmington Drama League with AIDS DELAWARE
RENT, the musical most responsible for helping to increase the popularity of musical theater amongst the younger generation, opens at the Wilmington Drama League opens on January 29.
It is the Delaware premiere of the show that won both a Pulitzer and several Tonies.
Based upon Puccini's “La Boheme”, the setting is transferred from the Parisian tenements to NYC's East Village. The tuberculosis that affects the lead female Mimi is replaced by AIDS. In the mid-'90's the epidemic was at its peak, taking the lives of young and old people alike. Two of the characters have HIV; two are afflicted with full blown AIDS. In fact, WDL has partnered with AIDS Delaware for the production. The production focuses on a community of artists who struggle to survive and “celebrate life in the face of death.”
Idina Menzel was discovered in "Rent," went on to play the guacamole-pussed witch in Wicked and recently performed solo at The Grand in support of her new album.
WilmingtonDramaLeague.org 302.762.1172
An Austrian-American thank you
The Austrian-American Society hosts a “Dankkonzert” (Thank You Concert) at the Music School of Delaware on January 16. The Society was founded decades ago by recently deceased Delaware arts icon Charlotte Shedd. The self-described Grande Dame of Culture had a weekly talk show on WDEL for years. Aisle Say recalls her signature high-pitched screed of a voice provoking seismic shudders in one's body throughout her weekly discourse.
But Shedd's heart was in the right place and for one aspiring singer a year, she offered a life-changing opportunity. The recipient of last year's scholarship will 'sing' her thanks.
Lyric soprano Kelly Curtin won the Society's 2009 scholarship for six week’s study with leading international vocalists and coaches at the prestigious Mozarteum Summer Academy in Salzburg, Austria. While in Salzburg, she studied with world-renowned teachers and performers.
The theme of Miss Curtin’s program is “Night and Dreams.” She will perform songs and arias by American, Austrian, English, French, German and Italian composers including Samuel Barber, Debussy, Fauré, Gounod, Puccini, Respighi, Shubert and Strauss.
The concert is free and open to the public. 3 pm on January 16 @ 4101 Washington St.
The Austrian-American Society's 2010 scholarship competition for instrumental and vocal students of classical music (instrumentalists ages 18-30, vocalists ages 21-35) will be held at the Music School of Delaware at 4101 Washington Street, Wilmington on Sunday, March 21, 2010. The first prize is aforementioned. There are cash prizes for second and third place winners.
Applicants must be legal residents of Delaware or reside within 25 miles of Wilmington. For applications and information: Geralyn M. Alexander 3205 Falcon Lane, Limestone Hills Wilmington, DE 19808 or call 302-239-2058. The deadline for receipt of completed applications is 6:00 p.m., March 5, 2010.
Delaware Music School is celebrating its 85th anniversary this year with a big celebration at The Grand. “Einstein's Mozart” will be performed at the school on January 10th at 3PM. It speaks to the inspiration that the former received from the latter. The event features the renown Serafin Quartet and poet Kate Light.
MusicSchoolofDelaware.org 302.762.1132.
It is the Delaware premiere of the show that won both a Pulitzer and several Tonies.
Based upon Puccini's “La Boheme”, the setting is transferred from the Parisian tenements to NYC's East Village. The tuberculosis that affects the lead female Mimi is replaced by AIDS. In the mid-'90's the epidemic was at its peak, taking the lives of young and old people alike. Two of the characters have HIV; two are afflicted with full blown AIDS. In fact, WDL has partnered with AIDS Delaware for the production. The production focuses on a community of artists who struggle to survive and “celebrate life in the face of death.”
Idina Menzel was discovered in "Rent," went on to play the guacamole-pussed witch in Wicked and recently performed solo at The Grand in support of her new album.
WilmingtonDramaLeague.org 302.762.1172
An Austrian-American thank you
The Austrian-American Society hosts a “Dankkonzert” (Thank You Concert) at the Music School of Delaware on January 16. The Society was founded decades ago by recently deceased Delaware arts icon Charlotte Shedd. The self-described Grande Dame of Culture had a weekly talk show on WDEL for years. Aisle Say recalls her signature high-pitched screed of a voice provoking seismic shudders in one's body throughout her weekly discourse.
But Shedd's heart was in the right place and for one aspiring singer a year, she offered a life-changing opportunity. The recipient of last year's scholarship will 'sing' her thanks.
Lyric soprano Kelly Curtin won the Society's 2009 scholarship for six week’s study with leading international vocalists and coaches at the prestigious Mozarteum Summer Academy in Salzburg, Austria. While in Salzburg, she studied with world-renowned teachers and performers.
The theme of Miss Curtin’s program is “Night and Dreams.” She will perform songs and arias by American, Austrian, English, French, German and Italian composers including Samuel Barber, Debussy, Fauré, Gounod, Puccini, Respighi, Shubert and Strauss.
The concert is free and open to the public. 3 pm on January 16 @ 4101 Washington St.
The Austrian-American Society's 2010 scholarship competition for instrumental and vocal students of classical music (instrumentalists ages 18-30, vocalists ages 21-35) will be held at the Music School of Delaware at 4101 Washington Street, Wilmington on Sunday, March 21, 2010. The first prize is aforementioned. There are cash prizes for second and third place winners.
Applicants must be legal residents of Delaware or reside within 25 miles of Wilmington. For applications and information: Geralyn M. Alexander 3205 Falcon Lane, Limestone Hills Wilmington, DE 19808 or call 302-239-2058. The deadline for receipt of completed applications is 6:00 p.m., March 5, 2010.
Delaware Music School is celebrating its 85th anniversary this year with a big celebration at The Grand. “Einstein's Mozart” will be performed at the school on January 10th at 3PM. It speaks to the inspiration that the former received from the latter. The event features the renown Serafin Quartet and poet Kate Light.
MusicSchoolofDelaware.org 302.762.1132.
Friday, January 1, 2010
3 Delaware News Stories put to Xmas tunes
“WHYY, How dare you leave our city”, (to the tune of O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree)
O HYY
O HYY
How dare you leave our city
O HYY
O HYY
Without an ounce of pity
You say you're not aband'ing us
And who are we to make a fuss!
O HYY
O HYY
How dare you leave our city
O HYY
O HYY
We put big money in you
O HYY
O HYY
Citizens are left to stew
You say your plans are misconstrued
But bottom line, we all got screwed
O HYY
O HYY
We put big money in you
O HYY
O HYY
Each month we get a call for cash
O HYY
O HYY
But now it all seems balderdash
Your anchor was a talking head
I tuned at 5 with fear and dread
O HYY
O HYY
Each month we get a call for cash
O HYY
O HYY
Next stop may be the FCC
O HYY
O HYY
Ted Kaufman's vote may be the key
You state your costs will not allow
But your GM makes 500 thou.
O HYY
O HYY
Next stop may be the FCC
The Dredging of the Delaware River
( to the tune of Deck the Halls With Boughs of Holly”)
Deck the shores with tons of sewage
Folly, folly, folly la la la la.
Underneath Memorial Brid...ge
Folly, folly, folly, la la la la
Trust Army Corps of Engineers?
Folly, folly, folly, la la la la
All we get are haughty sneers!
Folly, folly, folly, la la la la
See the wildlife dead before us,
Folly, folly, folly, la la la la.
Just say no and join the chorus,
Folly, folly, folly, la la la la.
Call Markell to voice displeasure,
Folly, folly, folly, la la la.
No corp'rate greed, no corp'rate treasure,
Folly, folly, folly, la la la la.
Ode to Mike Castle, “Biden's Son is Coming to Town” (to the tune of Santa Claus is Coming to Town”)
You better watch out
Don't sit, don't sigh
Better not flout
Joe's telling you why
Biden's son is coming to town
Beau's making a list
And checking it twice;
Goin' to DC to get some advice
Biden's son is coming to town
Beau sees you when you're polling
Beau knows that you're ahead
First state's... been historic'ly blue
Castle wants to make it red!
O! You better watch out!
You better look spry
Won't be a blow out...
Could make you mince pie
Biden's son is coming to town!
O HYY
O HYY
How dare you leave our city
O HYY
O HYY
Without an ounce of pity
You say you're not aband'ing us
And who are we to make a fuss!
O HYY
O HYY
How dare you leave our city
O HYY
O HYY
We put big money in you
O HYY
O HYY
Citizens are left to stew
You say your plans are misconstrued
But bottom line, we all got screwed
O HYY
O HYY
We put big money in you
O HYY
O HYY
Each month we get a call for cash
O HYY
O HYY
But now it all seems balderdash
Your anchor was a talking head
I tuned at 5 with fear and dread
O HYY
O HYY
Each month we get a call for cash
O HYY
O HYY
Next stop may be the FCC
O HYY
O HYY
Ted Kaufman's vote may be the key
You state your costs will not allow
But your GM makes 500 thou.
O HYY
O HYY
Next stop may be the FCC
The Dredging of the Delaware River
( to the tune of Deck the Halls With Boughs of Holly”)
Deck the shores with tons of sewage
Folly, folly, folly la la la la.
Underneath Memorial Brid...ge
Folly, folly, folly, la la la la
Trust Army Corps of Engineers?
Folly, folly, folly, la la la la
All we get are haughty sneers!
Folly, folly, folly, la la la la
See the wildlife dead before us,
Folly, folly, folly, la la la la.
Just say no and join the chorus,
Folly, folly, folly, la la la la.
Call Markell to voice displeasure,
Folly, folly, folly, la la la.
No corp'rate greed, no corp'rate treasure,
Folly, folly, folly, la la la la.
Ode to Mike Castle, “Biden's Son is Coming to Town” (to the tune of Santa Claus is Coming to Town”)
You better watch out
Don't sit, don't sigh
Better not flout
Joe's telling you why
Biden's son is coming to town
Beau's making a list
And checking it twice;
Goin' to DC to get some advice
Biden's son is coming to town
Beau sees you when you're polling
Beau knows that you're ahead
First state's... been historic'ly blue
Castle wants to make it red!
O! You better watch out!
You better look spry
Won't be a blow out...
Could make you mince pie
Biden's son is coming to town!
Friday, December 25, 2009
Firestone's AISLE SAY comments on DE social/political scene
“WHYY, How dare you leave our city”, (to the tune of O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree)
O HYY
O HYY
How dare you leave our city
O HYY
O HYY
Without an ounce of pity
You say you're not aband'ing us
And who are we to make a fuss!
O HYY
O HYY
How dare you leave our city
O HYY
O HYY
We put big money in you
O HYY
O HYY
Citizens are left to stew
You say your plans are misconstrued
But bottom line, we all got screwed
O HYY
O HYY
We put big money in you
O HYY
O HYY
Each month we get a call for cash
O HYY
O HYY
But now it all seems balderdash
Your anchor was a talking head
I tuned at 5 with fear and dread
O HYY
O HYY
Each month we get a call for cash
O HYY
O HYY
Next stop may be the FCC
O HYY
O HYY
Ted Kaufman's vote may be the key
You state your costs will not allow
But your GM makes 500 thou.
O HYY
O HYY
Next stop may be the FCC
The Dredging of the Delaware River
( to the tune of Deck the Halls With Boughs of Holly”)
Deck the shores with tons of sewage
Folly, folly, folly la la la la.
Underneath Memorial Brid...ge
Folly, folly, folly, la la la la
Trust Army Corps of Engineers?
Folly, folly, folly, la la la la
All we get are haughty sneers!
Folly, folly, folly, la la la la
See the wildlife dead before us,
Folly, folly, folly, la la la la.
Just say no and join the chorus,
Folly, folly, folly, la la la la.
Call Markell to voice displeasure,
Folly, folly, folly, la la la.
No corp'rate greed, no corp'rate treasure,
Folly, folly, folly, la la la la.
Ode to Mike Castle, “Biden's Son is Coming to Town” (to the tune of Santa Claus is Coming to Town”)
You better watch out
Don't sit, don't sigh
Better not flout
Joe's telling you why
Biden's son is coming to town
Beau's making a list
And checking it twice;
Goin' to DC to get some advice
Biden's son is coming to town
Beau sees you when you're polling
Beau knows that you're ahead
First state's... been historic'ly blue
Castle wants to make it red!
O! You better watch out!
You better look spry
Won't be a blow out...
Could make you mince pie
Biden's son is coming to town!
O HYY
O HYY
How dare you leave our city
O HYY
O HYY
Without an ounce of pity
You say you're not aband'ing us
And who are we to make a fuss!
O HYY
O HYY
How dare you leave our city
O HYY
O HYY
We put big money in you
O HYY
O HYY
Citizens are left to stew
You say your plans are misconstrued
But bottom line, we all got screwed
O HYY
O HYY
We put big money in you
O HYY
O HYY
Each month we get a call for cash
O HYY
O HYY
But now it all seems balderdash
Your anchor was a talking head
I tuned at 5 with fear and dread
O HYY
O HYY
Each month we get a call for cash
O HYY
O HYY
Next stop may be the FCC
O HYY
O HYY
Ted Kaufman's vote may be the key
You state your costs will not allow
But your GM makes 500 thou.
O HYY
O HYY
Next stop may be the FCC
The Dredging of the Delaware River
( to the tune of Deck the Halls With Boughs of Holly”)
Deck the shores with tons of sewage
Folly, folly, folly la la la la.
Underneath Memorial Brid...ge
Folly, folly, folly, la la la la
Trust Army Corps of Engineers?
Folly, folly, folly, la la la la
All we get are haughty sneers!
Folly, folly, folly, la la la la
See the wildlife dead before us,
Folly, folly, folly, la la la la.
Just say no and join the chorus,
Folly, folly, folly, la la la la.
Call Markell to voice displeasure,
Folly, folly, folly, la la la.
No corp'rate greed, no corp'rate treasure,
Folly, folly, folly, la la la la.
Ode to Mike Castle, “Biden's Son is Coming to Town” (to the tune of Santa Claus is Coming to Town”)
You better watch out
Don't sit, don't sigh
Better not flout
Joe's telling you why
Biden's son is coming to town
Beau's making a list
And checking it twice;
Goin' to DC to get some advice
Biden's son is coming to town
Beau sees you when you're polling
Beau knows that you're ahead
First state's... been historic'ly blue
Castle wants to make it red!
O! You better watch out!
You better look spry
Won't be a blow out...
Could make you mince pie
Biden's son is coming to town!
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Media Theatre's Oz is a pot of gold
When Dorothy Gale entered Oz, Judy Garland entered immortality. The movie has been seen by almost every child in the world who has seen a movie. “Rainbow” is the most popular tune ever; a mystical, lyrical and melodic story of a child's spiritual passage from adolescence to adulthood.
The professional cast of The Media Theatre created and evidenced the same love for their characters in this stage production as the iconic film actors did in 1939.
The theatre on Media's main drag is a renovated cinema not unlike The Grand. It was but twenty-five minutes from my home in Brandywine Hundred and most certainly worth the trip.
I attended with my college senior son Grant and elbowed him hard during the “Lollipop Kids” number, portrayed by a gaggle of beaming kids whose delight with being on stage was palpable. Grant had played one of those attitudinal rapscallions when in third grade.
With these characters so imprinted in us, it's a difficult task for the actors not to fall into caricature. All of the major players are Equity actors and have impressive credits, including the prestigious Walnut Theatre and The Prince in Philly. Media actors and productions have won “Barrymores,” the regional Tony's, on many occasions.
With the first four notes of “Rainbow's” lead in out of her mouth, it was evident that Dorothy (Kim Carson) would be an aural delicacy. As Judy preached herself, Carson made the lyrics her own.
Judy was 4'11”. Carson is a tall woman, but this does not seem to matter vis a vis her wide-eyed innocence in this “childlike” role. Her interaction with her compadres down the Yellow Brick Road was delightful. As I surveyed the audience, all had plastered smiles that could not be shaken.
Scarecrow (John Jarboe), Cowardly Lion (Daniel Stanton) and Tin Man (Patrick Ludt) are superior singers and dancers. Ludt, in fact, did a tap dance turn as the Tin Man to great effect. One has great expectations on the entrance of the Lion and that first “put 'em up, put 'em up” monologue. Stanton had the audience doubled over.
Wicked Witch (Kathryn Kendall) was over archingly-nefarious. Her 'dissolution” by Dorothy's pail of water was a clever special effect.
Jitterbug (Joey Tierno) is a recent college grad with a minor in dance. On this night, however, he majored in flips, tricks and leaving the ground for extended periods.
In the program even Toto (Ziva Larsen) had a bio. He most certainly is one of the most laid back Cairn Terriers in stage history, or else on xanax. He is on the majority of the time, is tossed back and forth and nary says a peep (or bark).
Director Peter Reynolds, who serves as director of musical theatre at Temple, did a fluid job with his ensemble cast. The action was forever brisk.
“The Wizard of Oz” speaks to your feelings, not your intellect. It comforts and inspires. Children identify Dorothy with their fears; adults identify with their dreams.
A poor little girl is sent down a perilous path. Along the way she must slay wicked witches and stand up to mighty wizards. We are made to see all the fantastic adventures through Dorothy’s wide and trusting eyes. She makes the unbelievable believable.., the unreal real.
This is a wonderful production for the entire family. Tix are very reasonable.
MediaTheatre.org 610.891.0100
The professional cast of The Media Theatre created and evidenced the same love for their characters in this stage production as the iconic film actors did in 1939.
The theatre on Media's main drag is a renovated cinema not unlike The Grand. It was but twenty-five minutes from my home in Brandywine Hundred and most certainly worth the trip.
I attended with my college senior son Grant and elbowed him hard during the “Lollipop Kids” number, portrayed by a gaggle of beaming kids whose delight with being on stage was palpable. Grant had played one of those attitudinal rapscallions when in third grade.
With these characters so imprinted in us, it's a difficult task for the actors not to fall into caricature. All of the major players are Equity actors and have impressive credits, including the prestigious Walnut Theatre and The Prince in Philly. Media actors and productions have won “Barrymores,” the regional Tony's, on many occasions.
With the first four notes of “Rainbow's” lead in out of her mouth, it was evident that Dorothy (Kim Carson) would be an aural delicacy. As Judy preached herself, Carson made the lyrics her own.
Judy was 4'11”. Carson is a tall woman, but this does not seem to matter vis a vis her wide-eyed innocence in this “childlike” role. Her interaction with her compadres down the Yellow Brick Road was delightful. As I surveyed the audience, all had plastered smiles that could not be shaken.
Scarecrow (John Jarboe), Cowardly Lion (Daniel Stanton) and Tin Man (Patrick Ludt) are superior singers and dancers. Ludt, in fact, did a tap dance turn as the Tin Man to great effect. One has great expectations on the entrance of the Lion and that first “put 'em up, put 'em up” monologue. Stanton had the audience doubled over.
Wicked Witch (Kathryn Kendall) was over archingly-nefarious. Her 'dissolution” by Dorothy's pail of water was a clever special effect.
Jitterbug (Joey Tierno) is a recent college grad with a minor in dance. On this night, however, he majored in flips, tricks and leaving the ground for extended periods.
In the program even Toto (Ziva Larsen) had a bio. He most certainly is one of the most laid back Cairn Terriers in stage history, or else on xanax. He is on the majority of the time, is tossed back and forth and nary says a peep (or bark).
Director Peter Reynolds, who serves as director of musical theatre at Temple, did a fluid job with his ensemble cast. The action was forever brisk.
“The Wizard of Oz” speaks to your feelings, not your intellect. It comforts and inspires. Children identify Dorothy with their fears; adults identify with their dreams.
A poor little girl is sent down a perilous path. Along the way she must slay wicked witches and stand up to mighty wizards. We are made to see all the fantastic adventures through Dorothy’s wide and trusting eyes. She makes the unbelievable believable.., the unreal real.
This is a wonderful production for the entire family. Tix are very reasonable.
MediaTheatre.org 610.891.0100
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