Saturday, December 24, 2011
Steps for the ORDINARY CITIZEN to reform Congress
We should be mad as hell. What can we do? When does this circus leave town? On the heels of the tax cut deal - a cynic migth even suggest the fix was in a month ago between the R's and D's - the American people should speak their piece. Here's a solution that has gone viral. When is enough...enough?
Warren Buffett, "I could end the deficit in 5 minutes," he told CNBC. "You just ...pass a law that says that anytime there is a deficit of more than 3% of GDP, all
sitting members of Congress are ineligible for re-election. The 26th
amendment (granting the right to vote for 18 year-olds) took only 3 months
& 8 days to be ratified! Why? Simple! The people demanded it. That was in
1971...before computers, e-mail, cell phones, etc. Of the 27 amendments to
the Constitution, seven (7) took 1 year or less to become the law of the
land...all because of public pressure.
*Congressional Reform Act of 2011*
1. No Tenure / No Pension. A Congressman collects a salary while in office
and receives no pay when they are out of office.
2. Congress (past, present & future) participates in Social Security. All
funds in the Congressional retirement fund move to the Social Security
system immediately. All future funds flow into the Social Security system,
and Congress participates with the American people. It may not be used for
any other purpose.
3. Congress can purchase their own retirement plan, just as all Americans
do.
4. Congress will no longer vote themselves a pay raise. Congressional pay
will rise by the lower of CPI or 3%.
5. Congress loses their current health care system and participates in the
same health care system as the American people.
6. Congress must equally abide by all laws they impose on the American
people.
7. All contracts with past and present Congressmen are void effective 1/1/12.
The American people did not make this contract with Congressmen. Congressmen
made all these contracts for themselves. Serving in Congress is an honor,
not a career. The Founding Fathers envisioned citizen legislators, so ours
should serve their term's), then go home and back to work.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
NCT creates a new Christmas tradition
Dear sister Liz and I introduced ourselves to our table mates. My first question is always... “have you been to Candlelight before?” In three years of attending opening weekends we've sat with only one couple who were returning vets. A promising sign.
The couple was from Downingtown. That's a hike. Dinner theatres in their area had closed years ago and, being good shoppers, they knew the inherent value in this combo for $55.00 per.
Perusing the program, the gentleman leaned over to me. “Don't actors get bored being in the same show for 6 weeks?”
“OMG! Shirley you jest! Theatre people are not like you and me, my son. They love performing. They love being different. They love the bond of their compadres. It's a new audience every night; responding in as many ways to them as there are snowflake designs. Being on stage is a rush.
'A Very Candlelight Christmas' was NCT's first in-house show, written by two of the most gifted performing arts talents in the Delaware Valley, Chris Alberts and Sonny Leo.
Chris and Sonny come by their talents honestly. Chris's Dad was Al Alberts of The Four Aces. Sonny's Mom is the local living legend of dance, Anna Marie. Sonny appeared on Al Alberts' tv show as a teenybopper (way back in the day, as they say).
NCT took a great risk with this show. This is commendable. The project was outside the boundaries of their normal programming. The margin of error is slim. (think Rick Perry's numbers' plummet after his brain freeze).
But is there not a greater risk in the arts than to perform live? Players put themselves at risk each time they walk on stage. Will I sing a sour note, will I trip during a choreo routine, will I lose focus with my character, will I burp or stutter or sneeze or go up in lines?
Half way through the opening number I rolled my eyes, sighed and muttered, “two hours to go with this mediocrity?” Alan (Tim Moudy) was portraying an over the top Pat Sajak-type announcer with delusions of adequacy.
Then....the reveal. Devlin (Patrick O'Hara) strides in from the audience and pulls the plug. Now here's a guy with skeletons (literally) in his closet! I do suggest toning down his vitriol a tad for the holiday audience.
This is a play within a play. The even greater conceit was that the plot was a takeoff of Dickens' “Scrooge' with a very very Christmasy Candlelight version. Clever. And, with each scene, the imagination continued its upward path.
Alberts and Leo wrote an inventive piece “We Three Kings of Broadway” featuring 'King of Siam' (Andre Dion Wills), Don Quixote (Paul Goodman) and Tevye (Dave Snyder). The trios' signature Broadway tunes were interspersed with the Xmas anthem. Difficult to conjure, but it worked.
Peter Pan made an appearance...on land...and on roller skates... in the charming personage of Peter Briccotto, an ice skating medalist and coach in real life.
Bob Fosse (David McConney) had The Master's pelvic thrusts down in yet another inventive number, chained (as in Marley's chains) to two 'Fosse' girls.
Costume Child (Zoe McLane), age 9, exhibits stage presence and pulls off her running gag with aplomb. She is outfitted by amusing costumes by Linda Reilly and Carol Brindley.
I imagine this will become an NCT tradition. Aisle Say considers there was a bit too much “Auld Lang Syne” and, with all the hoopla around Cassie's ( Kaylan Wetzel Acon) show-stopping talent, there was no fitting production number befitting her prodigious versatility.
Thru December 23. NCTonstage.org 302.475.2313
The couple was from Downingtown. That's a hike. Dinner theatres in their area had closed years ago and, being good shoppers, they knew the inherent value in this combo for $55.00 per.
Perusing the program, the gentleman leaned over to me. “Don't actors get bored being in the same show for 6 weeks?”
“OMG! Shirley you jest! Theatre people are not like you and me, my son. They love performing. They love being different. They love the bond of their compadres. It's a new audience every night; responding in as many ways to them as there are snowflake designs. Being on stage is a rush.
'A Very Candlelight Christmas' was NCT's first in-house show, written by two of the most gifted performing arts talents in the Delaware Valley, Chris Alberts and Sonny Leo.
Chris and Sonny come by their talents honestly. Chris's Dad was Al Alberts of The Four Aces. Sonny's Mom is the local living legend of dance, Anna Marie. Sonny appeared on Al Alberts' tv show as a teenybopper (way back in the day, as they say).
NCT took a great risk with this show. This is commendable. The project was outside the boundaries of their normal programming. The margin of error is slim. (think Rick Perry's numbers' plummet after his brain freeze).
But is there not a greater risk in the arts than to perform live? Players put themselves at risk each time they walk on stage. Will I sing a sour note, will I trip during a choreo routine, will I lose focus with my character, will I burp or stutter or sneeze or go up in lines?
Half way through the opening number I rolled my eyes, sighed and muttered, “two hours to go with this mediocrity?” Alan (Tim Moudy) was portraying an over the top Pat Sajak-type announcer with delusions of adequacy.
Then....the reveal. Devlin (Patrick O'Hara) strides in from the audience and pulls the plug. Now here's a guy with skeletons (literally) in his closet! I do suggest toning down his vitriol a tad for the holiday audience.
This is a play within a play. The even greater conceit was that the plot was a takeoff of Dickens' “Scrooge' with a very very Christmasy Candlelight version. Clever. And, with each scene, the imagination continued its upward path.
Alberts and Leo wrote an inventive piece “We Three Kings of Broadway” featuring 'King of Siam' (Andre Dion Wills), Don Quixote (Paul Goodman) and Tevye (Dave Snyder). The trios' signature Broadway tunes were interspersed with the Xmas anthem. Difficult to conjure, but it worked.
Peter Pan made an appearance...on land...and on roller skates... in the charming personage of Peter Briccotto, an ice skating medalist and coach in real life.
Bob Fosse (David McConney) had The Master's pelvic thrusts down in yet another inventive number, chained (as in Marley's chains) to two 'Fosse' girls.
Costume Child (Zoe McLane), age 9, exhibits stage presence and pulls off her running gag with aplomb. She is outfitted by amusing costumes by Linda Reilly and Carol Brindley.
I imagine this will become an NCT tradition. Aisle Say considers there was a bit too much “Auld Lang Syne” and, with all the hoopla around Cassie's ( Kaylan Wetzel Acon) show-stopping talent, there was no fitting production number befitting her prodigious versatility.
Thru December 23. NCTonstage.org 302.475.2313
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Nemours France is Wilmington's new Sister City
Michele Hermann, the Vice Mayor of Nemours France was recently feted at a reception at Nemours Mansion, indubitably the most spectacular pied a terre in the state. Her city has been designated Wilmington’s most recent “Sister City”.
Madame Hermann was vacationing in America this summer. Next spring she will bring a contingent of 'citoyens de Nemours' (citizens of Nemours) to our fair state in reciprocity with a group of Delawareans journeying to visit her this past spring.
The French city, about 40 miles south of “La Ville de Lumineres” (the City of Lights), is the ancestral home of the du Pont family. In the 18th century, Pierre Samuel du Pont de Nemours (E.I.'s pere) was a government official in the Court of King Louis the XVI who opposed the French Revolution. He narrowly escaped Madame deFarge's favorite means of mayhem (the guillotine) during the Reign of Terror. In the following turmoil the famille du Pont emigrated with his family to Wilmington in 1799 where, a few years later, his son founded a petite company of some future renown.
(A contemporary analogy is Delaware's own Reign of Terror perpetrated by Christine O'Donnell. In lieu of deFarge's knitting needles, however, C O'D wielded a wand).
Nemours is joined with Kalmar Sweden, Watford England, Fulda Germany and Olevano sul Tusciano Italy and Osogbo Nigeria.
Dennis Sheer presides over the volunteer organization which seeks to foster international understanding at all levels of the community on a continuing basis. Officers are assigned specific cities through which communication is exchanged. Sister Cities operates exchange visits on both a personal and individual basis. Official Delaware visitors generally involve programs around performing arts, fine arts and sports. SisterCitiesWilmington.org
NEMOURS MANSION
As a wedding present to second wife, A.I. Du Pont purchased 3000 acres just outside city limits. The mansion was designed in the late-18th-century French style that Alicia adored. Alfred named the estate Nemours.
The gardens are the finest examples in North America of formal French gardens, covering 222 acres. Continuing E.I.'s legacy of stewardship of the land, Delawareans are the beneficiary of the vision of P.S. at Longwood, Henry Francis at Winterthur and A.I here at Nemours.
In past years the Mansion was not user friendly regarding visitors. That has changed and there is a pro-active engagement with tourism agencies. Following the 2008 $39 million renovation, the gilded velvet ropes are down. Executive Director Grace Gary now encourages guests to walk about the grounds and experience how the du Ponts lived.
Sacre Bleu...living like the du Ponts! Hmm...let me see:
More than an acre under one roof. I have a roof that 'aches' to be de-mossed!
Doesn't everyone pine for a chandelier in the foyer once owned by the Marquis de Lafayette? How many citizens have a foyer?
In my garden there are brother and sister pelicans warily eyeing one another. In A.I's there is the statue “Achievement” whose paint was removed and replaced with 23 karat gold leaf.
The gate to my back yard is off its hinges. The Mansion's Wimbleton gates belonged to Henry VIII
Aisle Say retches at trite phrases. One of the worst: “best kept secret”. Yet I would suggest that less than 15% of all Delawareans have toured Nemours.
While the estate is beyond breathtaking, it pales in comparison to A.I's true legacy; the Nemours Foundation and the children it has saved over decades and decades and been a savior to my daughter Grace on two occasions...age 2 and age 8.
NemoursMansion.org 651.6912
Madame Hermann was vacationing in America this summer. Next spring she will bring a contingent of 'citoyens de Nemours' (citizens of Nemours) to our fair state in reciprocity with a group of Delawareans journeying to visit her this past spring.
The French city, about 40 miles south of “La Ville de Lumineres” (the City of Lights), is the ancestral home of the du Pont family. In the 18th century, Pierre Samuel du Pont de Nemours (E.I.'s pere) was a government official in the Court of King Louis the XVI who opposed the French Revolution. He narrowly escaped Madame deFarge's favorite means of mayhem (the guillotine) during the Reign of Terror. In the following turmoil the famille du Pont emigrated with his family to Wilmington in 1799 where, a few years later, his son founded a petite company of some future renown.
(A contemporary analogy is Delaware's own Reign of Terror perpetrated by Christine O'Donnell. In lieu of deFarge's knitting needles, however, C O'D wielded a wand).
Nemours is joined with Kalmar Sweden, Watford England, Fulda Germany and Olevano sul Tusciano Italy and Osogbo Nigeria.
Dennis Sheer presides over the volunteer organization which seeks to foster international understanding at all levels of the community on a continuing basis. Officers are assigned specific cities through which communication is exchanged. Sister Cities operates exchange visits on both a personal and individual basis. Official Delaware visitors generally involve programs around performing arts, fine arts and sports. SisterCitiesWilmington.org
NEMOURS MANSION
As a wedding present to second wife, A.I. Du Pont purchased 3000 acres just outside city limits. The mansion was designed in the late-18th-century French style that Alicia adored. Alfred named the estate Nemours.
The gardens are the finest examples in North America of formal French gardens, covering 222 acres. Continuing E.I.'s legacy of stewardship of the land, Delawareans are the beneficiary of the vision of P.S. at Longwood, Henry Francis at Winterthur and A.I here at Nemours.
In past years the Mansion was not user friendly regarding visitors. That has changed and there is a pro-active engagement with tourism agencies. Following the 2008 $39 million renovation, the gilded velvet ropes are down. Executive Director Grace Gary now encourages guests to walk about the grounds and experience how the du Ponts lived.
Sacre Bleu...living like the du Ponts! Hmm...let me see:
More than an acre under one roof. I have a roof that 'aches' to be de-mossed!
Doesn't everyone pine for a chandelier in the foyer once owned by the Marquis de Lafayette? How many citizens have a foyer?
In my garden there are brother and sister pelicans warily eyeing one another. In A.I's there is the statue “Achievement” whose paint was removed and replaced with 23 karat gold leaf.
The gate to my back yard is off its hinges. The Mansion's Wimbleton gates belonged to Henry VIII
Aisle Say retches at trite phrases. One of the worst: “best kept secret”. Yet I would suggest that less than 15% of all Delawareans have toured Nemours.
While the estate is beyond breathtaking, it pales in comparison to A.I's true legacy; the Nemours Foundation and the children it has saved over decades and decades and been a savior to my daughter Grace on two occasions...age 2 and age 8.
NemoursMansion.org 651.6912
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
What drives AISLE SAY crazy in the dog days of August
Things that drive Aisle Say crazy in the Dog Days of August:
The multitudinous ways that our favorite ex-despot's name is spelled. Is it Gadhafi, Qaddifi, Gaddafi?? Let's make a decision.
The riveting news that Paris Hilton fakes being on her cellphone to avoid conversations with paparazzi. (And then, come to discover, a percentage of the American population do exactly that!). Paris is quite the trend setter.
The chicklet toothed Christine O'Donnell appears on Piers Morgan to unashamedly promote her vacuous book and then is offended by his “borderline sexual harassment that was going on”. C O'D continues to embarrass Delawareans, including the majority from her own party.
The double truck newspaper ads to buy your gold....each at the best price ever!
The scandal of college athletics. It's not the players fault. It's not the coaches fault. It's not even the immorality of the boosters. It's the entire system. When the football coach makes 3 times the salary of the university president and 10 times that of professors, well, there's something rotten in ...(name a D-1 university town)
Why Cheney and Rumsfield are not jailed for the war criminals they are. They lied to us about WDM and Saddam's relationship with Osama, provoking the first pre-emptive war in our history
The Democratic press that gives Pres Obama props for the “courage” to kill Bin Laden. Hallo? That was one of the pivotal objectives to begin this second war, a “necessary war”, in Obama's terms. That wasn't courageous; it was strategy.
If all Americans used one third less ice in their drinks the United States would become a net exporter instead of an importer of energy.
That prosecutors nationally are losing their mojo: eg: Casey Anthony, Dominique Strauss-Kahn and the Roger Clemens debacle.
Michelle Bachman declaring that when she becomes President gas prices will be down to $2.00? Huh? Tell that to the Saudi sheikh's.
That our leaders are not the strong silent types with the steely gaze of an Eastwood or Wayne or McQueen and speak only when necessity dictates.
That M&T, in what must be considered reverse psychology, is charging these same loyal customers $.50 to use the ATM.
That Presidential candidate Perry states that climate change is a hoax. (Texas is experiencing its worst drought in decades.)
That Cat Stevens won't do a tour.
That machine guns are sold in gun shops and straw buyers are as easy to ascertain with the outlay of a C note.
Tattoos on the neck. Yuck
That there are no Congressional term limits and that Congress gets free health care
That Kim Kardashian made $17 million on her wedding. Reports are that the only one who didn't cry was step-dad Bruce Jenner, who had had his tear ducts surgically removed.
That anyone seriously thinks we will win in Afghanistan. Larry of Arabia was the ONLY hero to bring tribes together...and only then for a very short time.
That the concept of Earth Shoes has never been refuted. Now, 30 years later, manufacturers are finally getting the message. (Lower heel sole which reduces stress on the smaller toe bones)
That we view the victories and misfortunes of celebrities as a narrative for our own lives.
That dementia may be the ugliest disease of them all.
That Tonto never said, “Kiss my butt, White man”, to the Lone Ranger
That Rupert Murdock can appear so imperious and oblivious simultaneously.
Why we continue to be nation builders (Arab Spring) while our own nation's infrastructure is crumbling
Why Aisle Say does not have a chicklet smile.
The multitudinous ways that our favorite ex-despot's name is spelled. Is it Gadhafi, Qaddifi, Gaddafi?? Let's make a decision.
The riveting news that Paris Hilton fakes being on her cellphone to avoid conversations with paparazzi. (And then, come to discover, a percentage of the American population do exactly that!). Paris is quite the trend setter.
The chicklet toothed Christine O'Donnell appears on Piers Morgan to unashamedly promote her vacuous book and then is offended by his “borderline sexual harassment that was going on”. C O'D continues to embarrass Delawareans, including the majority from her own party.
The double truck newspaper ads to buy your gold....each at the best price ever!
The scandal of college athletics. It's not the players fault. It's not the coaches fault. It's not even the immorality of the boosters. It's the entire system. When the football coach makes 3 times the salary of the university president and 10 times that of professors, well, there's something rotten in ...(name a D-1 university town)
Why Cheney and Rumsfield are not jailed for the war criminals they are. They lied to us about WDM and Saddam's relationship with Osama, provoking the first pre-emptive war in our history
The Democratic press that gives Pres Obama props for the “courage” to kill Bin Laden. Hallo? That was one of the pivotal objectives to begin this second war, a “necessary war”, in Obama's terms. That wasn't courageous; it was strategy.
If all Americans used one third less ice in their drinks the United States would become a net exporter instead of an importer of energy.
That prosecutors nationally are losing their mojo: eg: Casey Anthony, Dominique Strauss-Kahn and the Roger Clemens debacle.
Michelle Bachman declaring that when she becomes President gas prices will be down to $2.00? Huh? Tell that to the Saudi sheikh's.
That our leaders are not the strong silent types with the steely gaze of an Eastwood or Wayne or McQueen and speak only when necessity dictates.
That M&T, in what must be considered reverse psychology, is charging these same loyal customers $.50 to use the ATM.
That Presidential candidate Perry states that climate change is a hoax. (Texas is experiencing its worst drought in decades.)
That Cat Stevens won't do a tour.
That machine guns are sold in gun shops and straw buyers are as easy to ascertain with the outlay of a C note.
Tattoos on the neck. Yuck
That there are no Congressional term limits and that Congress gets free health care
That Kim Kardashian made $17 million on her wedding. Reports are that the only one who didn't cry was step-dad Bruce Jenner, who had had his tear ducts surgically removed.
That anyone seriously thinks we will win in Afghanistan. Larry of Arabia was the ONLY hero to bring tribes together...and only then for a very short time.
That the concept of Earth Shoes has never been refuted. Now, 30 years later, manufacturers are finally getting the message. (Lower heel sole which reduces stress on the smaller toe bones)
That we view the victories and misfortunes of celebrities as a narrative for our own lives.
That dementia may be the ugliest disease of them all.
That Tonto never said, “Kiss my butt, White man”, to the Lone Ranger
That Rupert Murdock can appear so imperious and oblivious simultaneously.
Why we continue to be nation builders (Arab Spring) while our own nation's infrastructure is crumbling
Why Aisle Say does not have a chicklet smile.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Ode to Greg Tigani
Cole Porter's single greatest contribution to the 'pop culture' of 1934 may well be the playfully allusive “You're The Top” from 'Anything Goes'. It was a catalog of topical and cultural events, products, famous people, literature.
It is contemporaneously used by unpolished scriveners such as AISLE SAY to satirize current events.
Sample from Porter. Please sing along at home:
You're the top!
You're the Colosseum.
You're the top!
You're the Louvre Museum.
You're a melody from a symphony by Strauss
You're a Bendel bonnet,
A Shakespeare's sonnet,
You're Mickey Mouse.
With that preamble, please continue singing....
ODE TO CHRIS TIGANI
Need some beer?
Call Chris Tigani
Out of booze?
He's the licensee...e
Got a sweetheart deal from Gover...nor Aunt Bee
Want Eagles tix?
Maxim's hot licks
He's Mr. Geniality!
You pay to play
All's cozy in Dover
Alcohol ...will win votes over
When Ruthann flies to Canada by air
His charter is gratis. He has the status.
“Big deal.... Who cares?”
We're a team
It's called... Team Minner
Have a Bud
Won't make you thinner
Need a caravan to Margaritaville?
He's charismatic
Yet so pragmatic
Hey...Down a swill !!
Bought a home
From a guy named Charley
Took a loan
Was a tad bit tardy ($$) :-(
He wanted the power (Pass the whiskey sour!)
Needs a monopoly!!
Ran NKS
Just liked to party
He's a mess
Big time full hardy
Took Dad to trial. He said he was unfit..
He's the intoxicator
The 'liquid' ator
A narcissist!!
(Maxim Chorus Girl Pillow Fight Finale)
Yes, baby, he's a player,
Yes, baby, he's a player
He's the top!!
It is contemporaneously used by unpolished scriveners such as AISLE SAY to satirize current events.
Sample from Porter. Please sing along at home:
You're the top!
You're the Colosseum.
You're the top!
You're the Louvre Museum.
You're a melody from a symphony by Strauss
You're a Bendel bonnet,
A Shakespeare's sonnet,
You're Mickey Mouse.
With that preamble, please continue singing....
ODE TO CHRIS TIGANI
Need some beer?
Call Chris Tigani
Out of booze?
He's the licensee...e
Got a sweetheart deal from Gover...nor Aunt Bee
Want Eagles tix?
Maxim's hot licks
He's Mr. Geniality!
You pay to play
All's cozy in Dover
Alcohol ...will win votes over
When Ruthann flies to Canada by air
His charter is gratis. He has the status.
“Big deal.... Who cares?”
We're a team
It's called... Team Minner
Have a Bud
Won't make you thinner
Need a caravan to Margaritaville?
He's charismatic
Yet so pragmatic
Hey...Down a swill !!
Bought a home
From a guy named Charley
Took a loan
Was a tad bit tardy ($$) :-(
He wanted the power (Pass the whiskey sour!)
Needs a monopoly!!
Ran NKS
Just liked to party
He's a mess
Big time full hardy
Took Dad to trial. He said he was unfit..
He's the intoxicator
The 'liquid' ator
A narcissist!!
(Maxim Chorus Girl Pillow Fight Finale)
Yes, baby, he's a player,
Yes, baby, he's a player
He's the top!!
DE Division of Arts Grants...and more
No need to rehash the value of a vibrant arts community for this or any state. Kudos to Governor Markell and the General Assembly for providing level funding while the National Endowment of the Arts has reduced their offerings to us by 10%. (One wonders how many Tomahawk missiles cascading down on Gadhafi and costing $1 million each that 10% would take up...1,maybe 2?)
In reviewing the Aisle Say column from 2009 on the grants, here are some comparisons:
'09 – 88 organizations received 118 grants. This year the total was 99 grants from about the same amount of money; $1.5 million.
DE Center for Contemporary Arts received a total of $95,000.00 in three categories, $9,000.00 less than The Grand. Relative to total traffic between the two, there is disproportion there.
Opera Delaware received $63,000.00; DAM, $98,000.00; DE Symphony, $99,000.00
Joyful surprises :-) : The always innovative DE Theatre Company, maximizing their tiny black box stage to hallucinogenic proportions, received a whopping $95,000. Wilmington Drama League, an energetic community theatre here for 7 decades, $33,000.00. The UD's PTTP REP, the best theatre in the state and running in parallel universe to the best in NY, was the recipient of $17,000 for “Project Support”. With the quality they provide in every aspect, that money probably covers the cost of costumes for 2 shows.
Morose surprises :-( : New Candlelight Musical Theatre must not have applied. With the Twiggy sized margin they work in, they need – and deserve the money...more than, say the DE Dance Studio, which for years running has received $32,000. Same this year. They scarcely have an impact past the mums and dads and grandparents that sit through the yearly recitals. I am calling for Beau Biden to investigate this. This grant has inside job, “Bridge to Nowhere” written all over it. YMCA Delaware, catering to thousands upon thousands more, received $2,000.00 for their dance and drama program. First State Ballet received only $17,000.00; not much for DE's only professional ballet company. (Perhaps they should hire DE Dance Co's bag man.)
More morosity: Dover's Schwartz Center, a rehabilitated Victorian Grand Opera House-like theatre (with not much grand about it) was a public private initiative 15 years ago. “Rehab it and they will come.” They didn't. It sits empty the majority of the time yet still received $41,000.00, I assume to pay energy costs.
Soon the theatre season starts with a vengeance. UD's REP Ensemble opens with Lillian Hellman's classic, “The Little Foxes”. The second show is “Noises Off”, a play-within-a play offering the hysteria of Groucho, Chico and Harpo. Lola will get what she wants at New Candlelight in Sept with “Damn Yankees.”
Opera Delaware's main stage productions are “THE MAGIC FLUTE” Oct. 30m, Nov. 4 & 5, 2011 and “PORGY AND BESS” May 6m, 11 & 12, 2012. The NY Times reported a new version of “Porgy” will open at The American Repertory Theatre in Boston and move to Broadway. Written in 1934 by a man the likes of Irving Berlin called 'The Master”, this first and greatest American opera broke more boundaries than Jesse Owens. The songs are transcendental.
In reviewing the Aisle Say column from 2009 on the grants, here are some comparisons:
'09 – 88 organizations received 118 grants. This year the total was 99 grants from about the same amount of money; $1.5 million.
DE Center for Contemporary Arts received a total of $95,000.00 in three categories, $9,000.00 less than The Grand. Relative to total traffic between the two, there is disproportion there.
Opera Delaware received $63,000.00; DAM, $98,000.00; DE Symphony, $99,000.00
Joyful surprises :-) : The always innovative DE Theatre Company, maximizing their tiny black box stage to hallucinogenic proportions, received a whopping $95,000. Wilmington Drama League, an energetic community theatre here for 7 decades, $33,000.00. The UD's PTTP REP, the best theatre in the state and running in parallel universe to the best in NY, was the recipient of $17,000 for “Project Support”. With the quality they provide in every aspect, that money probably covers the cost of costumes for 2 shows.
Morose surprises :-( : New Candlelight Musical Theatre must not have applied. With the Twiggy sized margin they work in, they need – and deserve the money...more than, say the DE Dance Studio, which for years running has received $32,000. Same this year. They scarcely have an impact past the mums and dads and grandparents that sit through the yearly recitals. I am calling for Beau Biden to investigate this. This grant has inside job, “Bridge to Nowhere” written all over it. YMCA Delaware, catering to thousands upon thousands more, received $2,000.00 for their dance and drama program. First State Ballet received only $17,000.00; not much for DE's only professional ballet company. (Perhaps they should hire DE Dance Co's bag man.)
More morosity: Dover's Schwartz Center, a rehabilitated Victorian Grand Opera House-like theatre (with not much grand about it) was a public private initiative 15 years ago. “Rehab it and they will come.” They didn't. It sits empty the majority of the time yet still received $41,000.00, I assume to pay energy costs.
Soon the theatre season starts with a vengeance. UD's REP Ensemble opens with Lillian Hellman's classic, “The Little Foxes”. The second show is “Noises Off”, a play-within-a play offering the hysteria of Groucho, Chico and Harpo. Lola will get what she wants at New Candlelight in Sept with “Damn Yankees.”
Opera Delaware's main stage productions are “THE MAGIC FLUTE” Oct. 30m, Nov. 4 & 5, 2011 and “PORGY AND BESS” May 6m, 11 & 12, 2012. The NY Times reported a new version of “Porgy” will open at The American Repertory Theatre in Boston and move to Broadway. Written in 1934 by a man the likes of Irving Berlin called 'The Master”, this first and greatest American opera broke more boundaries than Jesse Owens. The songs are transcendental.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Over the past 2 seasons New Candlelight Theatre had been in a groove like the Phillies pitching staff. Their Doc Halladay was “Cats” and “Footloose”; Cliff Lee was “Oklahoma” and “Joseph” and Cole Hamels was “Little Shop” and “Evita”.
“Annie” was a minor league choice. True, the tunes 'Tomorrow' and 'Maybe' stick in your brain like oil to a pelican in the Gulf disaster, but “Annie” should be sent to Old Timers Hall of Overdone Musicals.
Production qualities were not commensurate with what we have come to expect at NCT. The set was one dimensional; cartoon-ish in both design and application and in no fashion integrated with the heartstrings-pulling drama of the little orphan girl.
Annie (Jamieson O'Brien) is a good actor and has quite a resume for her age. Her two aforementioned show stoppers were sung without the degree of desolation, yearning and hope the lyrics speak to. Her voice was shrill rather than melodic and a voice instructor should suggest letting the air come over the pallet from her diaphragm rather than straight from her chest.
Molly (Nicole Hemphill) is simply too cute. There is no doubt in my mind she will be the title character in some future production of this show.
Warbucks (Patrick O'Hara) is a fine actor and even better all around trouper. In the “Full Monty” his body was bare; in this one he bares his hair! His scene explaining to Annie his growing up in Hell's Kitchen was the most dramatic of the evening.
Miss Hannigan (Gerri Weagraff) plays comic drunk well, a homegrown version of Carol Burnett. Her grifters-in-crime Rooster (Dewey Oriente) and Lily (Lindsay Mauck) are strong in their portrayals. Potential was lost in their own show stopper 'Easy Street'. More rehearsal could make that the number it should be.
What little choreography there was (Shauna Goodman) could have been enhanced in 'Hooverville', generally a major production number. Goodman left it to the dancers to create their own little prances.
F.D.R/Cop (David Snyder) channeled our most patrician of Presidents as the former and delivered an authentic Irish brogue as the latter.
Grace (Megan Pisors) is an attractive stage presence with a clear voice. The server at the table for my dear sister Liz and me, I wondered why she needed a wig (Freda Carson) on stage. While Pisors' was acceptable, the hairpiece given to Annie was a bit large for her head and reminded me of the style preferred by my grandmother. Why not give her the red-haired Afro we are all familiar with and be done with it?
Next season opens with the formidable “Miss Saigon” Music by les messieurs who brought you “Les Mis”.
Through August 21. Next up is 'Damn Yankees”. NCTstage.org 302.475.2313
NCT is still the greatest value in live theatre.
FLOTSAM & JETSAM
NBA star Ron Artest has retained counsel to change his name to Metta World Peace. Metta is a Buddhist term meaning 'kindness'. I have informed my esteemed editor that henceforth my nom de plume will be Metta Omniscient Aisle Say. Please direct future complaints to him referencing this name, especially serviceable when child actors are criticized
I was at DMV last week and surveyed the packed house. I got scared. Please, can Google start producing their self-driving cars any quicker?
The new design for the intersection of Rts 95 and 1 is a flyover. The Tyler McConnell bridge then becomes the next impassable bottleneck if Stoltz's plan for Barley Mill Plaza is realized. Solution: have the developer foot the bill for a flyover to link at the top of the hill at Alapocas Woods.
As we leave the subject of “Annie”, Delawareans must feel orphaned as well when their one and only daily newspaper leaves them without a performing arts reviewer.
“Annie” was a minor league choice. True, the tunes 'Tomorrow' and 'Maybe' stick in your brain like oil to a pelican in the Gulf disaster, but “Annie” should be sent to Old Timers Hall of Overdone Musicals.
Production qualities were not commensurate with what we have come to expect at NCT. The set was one dimensional; cartoon-ish in both design and application and in no fashion integrated with the heartstrings-pulling drama of the little orphan girl.
Annie (Jamieson O'Brien) is a good actor and has quite a resume for her age. Her two aforementioned show stoppers were sung without the degree of desolation, yearning and hope the lyrics speak to. Her voice was shrill rather than melodic and a voice instructor should suggest letting the air come over the pallet from her diaphragm rather than straight from her chest.
Molly (Nicole Hemphill) is simply too cute. There is no doubt in my mind she will be the title character in some future production of this show.
Warbucks (Patrick O'Hara) is a fine actor and even better all around trouper. In the “Full Monty” his body was bare; in this one he bares his hair! His scene explaining to Annie his growing up in Hell's Kitchen was the most dramatic of the evening.
Miss Hannigan (Gerri Weagraff) plays comic drunk well, a homegrown version of Carol Burnett. Her grifters-in-crime Rooster (Dewey Oriente) and Lily (Lindsay Mauck) are strong in their portrayals. Potential was lost in their own show stopper 'Easy Street'. More rehearsal could make that the number it should be.
What little choreography there was (Shauna Goodman) could have been enhanced in 'Hooverville', generally a major production number. Goodman left it to the dancers to create their own little prances.
F.D.R/Cop (David Snyder) channeled our most patrician of Presidents as the former and delivered an authentic Irish brogue as the latter.
Grace (Megan Pisors) is an attractive stage presence with a clear voice. The server at the table for my dear sister Liz and me, I wondered why she needed a wig (Freda Carson) on stage. While Pisors' was acceptable, the hairpiece given to Annie was a bit large for her head and reminded me of the style preferred by my grandmother. Why not give her the red-haired Afro we are all familiar with and be done with it?
Next season opens with the formidable “Miss Saigon” Music by les messieurs who brought you “Les Mis”.
Through August 21. Next up is 'Damn Yankees”. NCTstage.org 302.475.2313
NCT is still the greatest value in live theatre.
FLOTSAM & JETSAM
NBA star Ron Artest has retained counsel to change his name to Metta World Peace. Metta is a Buddhist term meaning 'kindness'. I have informed my esteemed editor that henceforth my nom de plume will be Metta Omniscient Aisle Say. Please direct future complaints to him referencing this name, especially serviceable when child actors are criticized
I was at DMV last week and surveyed the packed house. I got scared. Please, can Google start producing their self-driving cars any quicker?
The new design for the intersection of Rts 95 and 1 is a flyover. The Tyler McConnell bridge then becomes the next impassable bottleneck if Stoltz's plan for Barley Mill Plaza is realized. Solution: have the developer foot the bill for a flyover to link at the top of the hill at Alapocas Woods.
As we leave the subject of “Annie”, Delawareans must feel orphaned as well when their one and only daily newspaper leaves them without a performing arts reviewer.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
PBS's Jackie Evanko is "Awesome"
I was on the porch reading the Sunday paper last week when the most soothing and mellifluous voice wafted in from the tv room. The song was West Side Story's 'Somewhere'.
My eyes must be deceiving me. A precious little blond girl was solo at the mic. Behind her was a vid of Barbra Streisand and the two were doing a duet. This little prodigy, 11 year old Jackie Evanko, was more than holding her own versus one of the great stylists in musical history.
The production was yet another PBS fund raiser by 'The Hit Man', composer David Foster. Only in the past few years has Foster's name achieved superstar profile. His tunes and musicianship have been major influences in the careers of Celine, Andrea Bocelli, Barbra, etc....and now certainly this 4 ½ foot 5th grader wunderkind.
Her octave range, her unyielding control of notes, her ability to sing in different languages, her maturity and consummate professionalism were attributes you might expect, well, from Barbra. (Streisand was a singer in gay bars in her teens and first appeared on Broadway in “I Can Get It For You Wholesale” in '62 at age 20, at that point a seasoned veteran).
This impassioned experience with Jackie led me to consider those most memorable musical tv moments; the vast majority of which have come care of WHYY. Aisle Say readers may recall I have been harsh with this not for profit station, equating their skulking out of Delaware to the dead-of-night move by Baltimore Colts owner Robert Irsay to Indianapolis in 1963.
“Les Mis” 25 years ago ranks #1. Next is Andrea Bocelli in Tuscany singing 'Time To Say Goodbye' with Sarah Brightman. Third is Jackie and fourth would be Foster's first “Hit Man” with numerous stars including Josh Groban.
Patrick Stoner was one of the hosts for all four. His wife, Joyce Hill Stoner, is an art conservator at Winterthur and the family lives in Hockessin.
I called him for some recollections of these watershed events. Immediately Patrick gave me a caveat. “I have nothing to do with booking any of this. I am an on air host, that is it!” He commented that the station buys the rights and has a time period to air the program.
With that out of way – and with a large smile on my face – I reminded him of his spontaneous reactions of awe during the first 'Les' Mis (OMG....25 years ago!) “That is what you call WOW! A WOW”, I recall.
“We were expecting a bit of rainfall from our viewers. Within hours it became Level 5 hurricane. It was the biggest fund raiser in history, $1.2million.”
During the first 'Hit Man' special, Foster was on set. Stoner made it a point not to meet the composer beforehand. He opted to take a risk and began bantering during commercial breaks. Foster first turned his head and gave a steely glare. The gauntlet was on the ground and the two enlivened the show with give and take goofs. Example: one of the other hosts made mention that Foster had been given The Order of Canada. Patrick cracked, “was that an order to LEAVE Canada!”
Stoner's day job as we know is film reviewer and interviewer to the stars. He makes little or no money with the fund raisers. But, as a pre-ministerial student for a few years, “ I've always felt a longing to do something bigger than myself. I didn't have the required chops to make religion a career.”
The tv segments appear on Saturday nights on 65 PBS stations. He has interviewed most of the major stars. Tom Hanks, for example, will no longer give commercial interviews but he will sit down with Patrick. Johnny Depp has guaranteed that with every movie he's in, Patrick will be included. “I ask actors about their craft, not how was it like to work with whats her face.”
I suppose Patrick took no cues from SNL's Chris Farley when he interviewed Paul McCartney. Farley: “Do you remember when you were with The Beatles?”
McCartney: “Yes”.
Farley: “That was awesome!”
My eyes must be deceiving me. A precious little blond girl was solo at the mic. Behind her was a vid of Barbra Streisand and the two were doing a duet. This little prodigy, 11 year old Jackie Evanko, was more than holding her own versus one of the great stylists in musical history.
The production was yet another PBS fund raiser by 'The Hit Man', composer David Foster. Only in the past few years has Foster's name achieved superstar profile. His tunes and musicianship have been major influences in the careers of Celine, Andrea Bocelli, Barbra, etc....and now certainly this 4 ½ foot 5th grader wunderkind.
Her octave range, her unyielding control of notes, her ability to sing in different languages, her maturity and consummate professionalism were attributes you might expect, well, from Barbra. (Streisand was a singer in gay bars in her teens and first appeared on Broadway in “I Can Get It For You Wholesale” in '62 at age 20, at that point a seasoned veteran).
This impassioned experience with Jackie led me to consider those most memorable musical tv moments; the vast majority of which have come care of WHYY. Aisle Say readers may recall I have been harsh with this not for profit station, equating their skulking out of Delaware to the dead-of-night move by Baltimore Colts owner Robert Irsay to Indianapolis in 1963.
“Les Mis” 25 years ago ranks #1. Next is Andrea Bocelli in Tuscany singing 'Time To Say Goodbye' with Sarah Brightman. Third is Jackie and fourth would be Foster's first “Hit Man” with numerous stars including Josh Groban.
Patrick Stoner was one of the hosts for all four. His wife, Joyce Hill Stoner, is an art conservator at Winterthur and the family lives in Hockessin.
I called him for some recollections of these watershed events. Immediately Patrick gave me a caveat. “I have nothing to do with booking any of this. I am an on air host, that is it!” He commented that the station buys the rights and has a time period to air the program.
With that out of way – and with a large smile on my face – I reminded him of his spontaneous reactions of awe during the first 'Les' Mis (OMG....25 years ago!) “That is what you call WOW! A WOW”, I recall.
“We were expecting a bit of rainfall from our viewers. Within hours it became Level 5 hurricane. It was the biggest fund raiser in history, $1.2million.”
During the first 'Hit Man' special, Foster was on set. Stoner made it a point not to meet the composer beforehand. He opted to take a risk and began bantering during commercial breaks. Foster first turned his head and gave a steely glare. The gauntlet was on the ground and the two enlivened the show with give and take goofs. Example: one of the other hosts made mention that Foster had been given The Order of Canada. Patrick cracked, “was that an order to LEAVE Canada!”
Stoner's day job as we know is film reviewer and interviewer to the stars. He makes little or no money with the fund raisers. But, as a pre-ministerial student for a few years, “ I've always felt a longing to do something bigger than myself. I didn't have the required chops to make religion a career.”
The tv segments appear on Saturday nights on 65 PBS stations. He has interviewed most of the major stars. Tom Hanks, for example, will no longer give commercial interviews but he will sit down with Patrick. Johnny Depp has guaranteed that with every movie he's in, Patrick will be included. “I ask actors about their craft, not how was it like to work with whats her face.”
I suppose Patrick took no cues from SNL's Chris Farley when he interviewed Paul McCartney. Farley: “Do you remember when you were with The Beatles?”
McCartney: “Yes”.
Farley: “That was awesome!”
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
A historical survey on political salaciousness!
Reader's Choice – The Most Reprehensible Political Scandal
As readers over the past four years gratefully acknowledge, both public concern and topicality are paramount to our mission here at Aisle Say. Thereby and therefore and without furthering adieus, we wish to give the readers a forum to express their opinions.
In the world of politics, the charming sobriquet of 'ladies man' has gone from player to predator.
On the spectrum that begins with lascivious, courses through disturbing and ultimately sees the light of day in a perp walk, why is it that powerful men think they can get away with this behavior? In their defense, friends would say, “so and so would never do such a thing. He's far too brilliant to do anything so disgusting and hypocritical.”
I googled the time worn but accurate phrase by Lord Acton in 1887 and discovered a concluding sentence not normally uttered in its use: “ Power tends to corrupt..and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” Here's the kicker: “Great men are almost always bad men.”
The default excuses are 1) The guy takes risks. That's how he became successful. 2) They feel rules don't apply to them. 3) With power comes confidence and...aha!...opportunity.
It is well past the time to venerate wayward politicians with a wink and a 'boys will be boys' reprimand. Aisle Say takes our readers on a history lesson of the sleazeball.
This weeks survey asks: “Rate Your Most Outrageous, Scurrilous, Hypocritical, Unseemly and Ignominious Scandal.”
In no particular order. Place them in YOUR order, #1 being THE WORST!
Eliot Spitzer - NY Governor (Client 9) pays $80,000 for prostitutes
Arnold Schwarzenegger - “The Sperminator” - pumping more than iron
Bill Clinton - Monica Lewinsky – The pizza was not all she delivered
Mark Sanford - Governor of SC – Aren't we ALL looking for our 'soul mate'
John Edwards - Sympathy for wife's cancer and then “love child” appears
Clarence Thomas - Harassment allegations from Anita Hill did not prove fatal
Newt Gingrich - Leading Clinton's impeachment as affair with staffer goes on
John Kennedy - Not only Marilyn, but Exner, the gfriend of a mob boss
Larry Craig - Anti-gay rights MN Senator arrested in bathroom
Gary Hart - Presidential hopeful with Rice on boat “Monkey Business”
Thomas Jefferson - reportedly fathered 6 children with slave Sally Hemmings
John Ensign - Affair with his best friend's wife. Friend gets $90k from Dad
Send your choices in order (with comments)should you wish to firestone@delaware.net
As readers over the past four years gratefully acknowledge, both public concern and topicality are paramount to our mission here at Aisle Say. Thereby and therefore and without furthering adieus, we wish to give the readers a forum to express their opinions.
In the world of politics, the charming sobriquet of 'ladies man' has gone from player to predator.
On the spectrum that begins with lascivious, courses through disturbing and ultimately sees the light of day in a perp walk, why is it that powerful men think they can get away with this behavior? In their defense, friends would say, “so and so would never do such a thing. He's far too brilliant to do anything so disgusting and hypocritical.”
I googled the time worn but accurate phrase by Lord Acton in 1887 and discovered a concluding sentence not normally uttered in its use: “ Power tends to corrupt..and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” Here's the kicker: “Great men are almost always bad men.”
The default excuses are 1) The guy takes risks. That's how he became successful. 2) They feel rules don't apply to them. 3) With power comes confidence and...aha!...opportunity.
It is well past the time to venerate wayward politicians with a wink and a 'boys will be boys' reprimand. Aisle Say takes our readers on a history lesson of the sleazeball.
This weeks survey asks: “Rate Your Most Outrageous, Scurrilous, Hypocritical, Unseemly and Ignominious Scandal.”
In no particular order. Place them in YOUR order, #1 being THE WORST!
Eliot Spitzer - NY Governor (Client 9) pays $80,000 for prostitutes
Arnold Schwarzenegger - “The Sperminator” - pumping more than iron
Bill Clinton - Monica Lewinsky – The pizza was not all she delivered
Mark Sanford - Governor of SC – Aren't we ALL looking for our 'soul mate'
John Edwards - Sympathy for wife's cancer and then “love child” appears
Clarence Thomas - Harassment allegations from Anita Hill did not prove fatal
Newt Gingrich - Leading Clinton's impeachment as affair with staffer goes on
John Kennedy - Not only Marilyn, but Exner, the gfriend of a mob boss
Larry Craig - Anti-gay rights MN Senator arrested in bathroom
Gary Hart - Presidential hopeful with Rice on boat “Monkey Business”
Thomas Jefferson - reportedly fathered 6 children with slave Sally Hemmings
John Ensign - Affair with his best friend's wife. Friend gets $90k from Dad
Send your choices in order (with comments)should you wish to firestone@delaware.net
Friday, May 20, 2011
Reader's Choice – The Most Reprehensible Contemporary Political Scandal
As readers over the past four years gratefully acknowledge, topicality and public interest are paramount to our mission here at Aisle Say. Thereby and therefore and without furthering adieus, we wish to give the readers a forum to express their opinions.
This weeks survey asks: “Rate Your Most Outrageous, Scurrilous, Hypocritical, Unseemly and Ignominious Scandal.”
In no particular order. Place them in YOUR order, #1 being THE WORST!
Eliot Spitzer - NY Governor pays $80,000 for prostitutes and resignation
Arnold Schwarzenegger - “The Sperminator” - pumping more than iron
Bill Clinton - Monica Lewinsky – Girl, launder that blue dress!!!
Mark Sanford - Governor of SC – We are ALL looking for our 'soul mate'
John Edwards - Sympathy for wife's cancer and then “love child” appears
Send your choices in order (with comments) to firestone@delaware.net
The Grand's mantra in 2011-2012 season is to bring world-class entertainment to Wilmington while strengthening local arts and community partnerships.
The three performing arts group that share space at 818 Market St. gave a first ever collaborated preview of their respective seasons. Representatives from OperaDelaware, First State Ballet and DE Symphony orchestra sat with Mark Fields, Managing Director of The Grand to announce both their individual seasons and some collaborations..
It is nothing if not an eclectic program, a broad diversity of that should appeal to virtually every segment. The Grand’s programming lineup will appeal to a wide range of audiences, offering classic rockers, R&B singers, popular comedians, magicians, folk and bluegrass virtuosos, multicultural entertainment, and expanded classical options.
There is obvious crossover with World Cafe Live, 3 blocks down the street, and the two entities must be vigilant to avoid the perception of one grabbing a gig before the other has a chance. One would hope the two institutions work to make Market Street a nexus for entertainment.
The 1300 seat theatre is a tweener; i.e. too small to afford major names. With the deft hand of a surgeon Executive Director Steve Bailey must look at the overall demographics of the market, seek out acts playing Baltimore or Philly and catch fill a spot between those dates and negotiate, negotiate, negotiate.
There are major consequences of The Grand's selections. It's $10 million capital campaign appears is in a holding pattern. Over $4 million was pledged the opening night of the campaign several months ago and it is hovering at $5 million presently.
Hard rocker and harder drinker George Thorogood has a September date. George and Tony Award winner Johnny Gallagher are the two most celebrated attendees of Brandywine High School...and neither graduated.
First State Ballet will stage Don Quixote in October and return with The Nutcracker in December. (Son Grant was 1st State Ballet's first Fritz in the late '90's – the scalawag who breaks sister Clara's nutcracker.)
OperaDelaware is staging far and away its most popular opera, Gershwin's Porgy and Bess in 2012, preceded by The Magic Flute in November.
TheGrandWilmington.org, OperaDE.org FirstStateBallet.com
1-800-37-GRAND ticketsatthegrand.org
As readers over the past four years gratefully acknowledge, topicality and public interest are paramount to our mission here at Aisle Say. Thereby and therefore and without furthering adieus, we wish to give the readers a forum to express their opinions.
This weeks survey asks: “Rate Your Most Outrageous, Scurrilous, Hypocritical, Unseemly and Ignominious Scandal.”
In no particular order. Place them in YOUR order, #1 being THE WORST!
Eliot Spitzer - NY Governor pays $80,000 for prostitutes and resignation
Arnold Schwarzenegger - “The Sperminator” - pumping more than iron
Bill Clinton - Monica Lewinsky – Girl, launder that blue dress!!!
Mark Sanford - Governor of SC – We are ALL looking for our 'soul mate'
John Edwards - Sympathy for wife's cancer and then “love child” appears
Send your choices in order (with comments) to firestone@delaware.net
The Grand's mantra in 2011-2012 season is to bring world-class entertainment to Wilmington while strengthening local arts and community partnerships.
The three performing arts group that share space at 818 Market St. gave a first ever collaborated preview of their respective seasons. Representatives from OperaDelaware, First State Ballet and DE Symphony orchestra sat with Mark Fields, Managing Director of The Grand to announce both their individual seasons and some collaborations..
It is nothing if not an eclectic program, a broad diversity of that should appeal to virtually every segment. The Grand’s programming lineup will appeal to a wide range of audiences, offering classic rockers, R&B singers, popular comedians, magicians, folk and bluegrass virtuosos, multicultural entertainment, and expanded classical options.
There is obvious crossover with World Cafe Live, 3 blocks down the street, and the two entities must be vigilant to avoid the perception of one grabbing a gig before the other has a chance. One would hope the two institutions work to make Market Street a nexus for entertainment.
The 1300 seat theatre is a tweener; i.e. too small to afford major names. With the deft hand of a surgeon Executive Director Steve Bailey must look at the overall demographics of the market, seek out acts playing Baltimore or Philly and catch fill a spot between those dates and negotiate, negotiate, negotiate.
There are major consequences of The Grand's selections. It's $10 million capital campaign appears is in a holding pattern. Over $4 million was pledged the opening night of the campaign several months ago and it is hovering at $5 million presently.
Hard rocker and harder drinker George Thorogood has a September date. George and Tony Award winner Johnny Gallagher are the two most celebrated attendees of Brandywine High School...and neither graduated.
First State Ballet will stage Don Quixote in October and return with The Nutcracker in December. (Son Grant was 1st State Ballet's first Fritz in the late '90's – the scalawag who breaks sister Clara's nutcracker.)
OperaDelaware is staging far and away its most popular opera, Gershwin's Porgy and Bess in 2012, preceded by The Magic Flute in November.
TheGrandWilmington.org, OperaDE.org FirstStateBallet.com
1-800-37-GRAND ticketsatthegrand.org
"9" = 8 1/2
If there is a trophy for getting the max out of the most minimal of resources (drum roll, please), the award goes to City Theatre Co.
The stage is shoehorned in a tiny black box theater in Opera Delaware's riverfront studios, seating cannot be more than 100 and whatever budget there is for tech, costumes, makeup and hair is as lean as Mick Jagger.
But creativity has no boundaries. Producer/Director Michael Gray has kept his committed troupe together for nearing two decades. Their stated mission is to “rid the planet of complacency, redundancy, indifference and fear.” The world is full of all that presently. I am unsure how the group reaches out to the nattering nabobs of negativism across the universe, but as for Wilmington, with each season they have remained true to their anthem.
“Nine” premiered on Broadway in 1982. It was the stage version of Federico Fellini's wildly erotic film fantasy “8 1/2,” focusing on film director Guido's trepidation at his 40th birthday.
Guido (Michael Gray) is a libertine, a philanderer and a womanizer – in other words, my role model. And...he's married.
Would such a man wear a white shirt (as does Gray) or shimmering black silk? Should such a man wear a daring Italianate string tie rather than the broad-striped one chosen by Gray? Lose the tie, you Lothario, you!
IF YOU GO
WHAT "Nine"
WHERE City Theater Co., Opera Delaware Studios,
4 S. Poplar St., Wilmington
WHEN Select nights through May 21
COST $25/general admission; $40/VIP
INFO www.city-theater.org
These criticisms seem petty in relation to the exhilarating performance of Gray and his committed cast.
The scene opens with the gaggle of women singing of their unrequited love for our main man. “Guido's Song” follows, an admixture of soul-searching serenades similar to “Soliloquy” in “Carousel” or “I Am What I Am” from “Les Cage Aux Folles.” Gray's facile delivery makes for great storytelling in song.
Carla (Ashley Harris), Guido's primary non-wife squeeze, achieves greatness in keeping her towel at just the right position while creating lascivious images in the minds of the men in the audience.
Liliane LeFleur (Karen Murdock) lived and breathed the role of Guido’s film producer. Murdock continues to be one of the finest singer/actors in the region. The finest detail does not escape her, even to the exquisite choice of her very European hairstyle. Visually reminiscent of both Judy Garland and Edith Piaf, her accent was the best of the cast. Le Fleur led the major production number “Follies Bergeres” with great energy and engagement.
Saraghina (Eleonore Thomas) delivered such a barefooted performance so Italian earthy I could visualize her stomping grapes on the hillside. The on stage experience she gave the young Guido (Nolan Moss) he will never forget!
The eight-member orchestra must have been sitting on each other's shoulders in the cramped space allotted. Conductor Chris Tolemeo created a beautiful sound with instruments not normally considered in community theatre; cello, woodwinds and violin. The cellist, Ezgi Yargici, was especially evocative in “Simple.”
The closer of Act I, “The Bells of St. Sebastian” is a searing exposé of the hypocrisy of Catholic school education.
Choreographer Dawn Morningstar was creative with the large numbers of people and their varying degrees of dance experience.
----------
The stage is shoehorned in a tiny black box theater in Opera Delaware's riverfront studios, seating cannot be more than 100 and whatever budget there is for tech, costumes, makeup and hair is as lean as Mick Jagger.
But creativity has no boundaries. Producer/Director Michael Gray has kept his committed troupe together for nearing two decades. Their stated mission is to “rid the planet of complacency, redundancy, indifference and fear.” The world is full of all that presently. I am unsure how the group reaches out to the nattering nabobs of negativism across the universe, but as for Wilmington, with each season they have remained true to their anthem.
“Nine” premiered on Broadway in 1982. It was the stage version of Federico Fellini's wildly erotic film fantasy “8 1/2,” focusing on film director Guido's trepidation at his 40th birthday.
Guido (Michael Gray) is a libertine, a philanderer and a womanizer – in other words, my role model. And...he's married.
Would such a man wear a white shirt (as does Gray) or shimmering black silk? Should such a man wear a daring Italianate string tie rather than the broad-striped one chosen by Gray? Lose the tie, you Lothario, you!
IF YOU GO
WHAT "Nine"
WHERE City Theater Co., Opera Delaware Studios,
4 S. Poplar St., Wilmington
WHEN Select nights through May 21
COST $25/general admission; $40/VIP
INFO www.city-theater.org
These criticisms seem petty in relation to the exhilarating performance of Gray and his committed cast.
The scene opens with the gaggle of women singing of their unrequited love for our main man. “Guido's Song” follows, an admixture of soul-searching serenades similar to “Soliloquy” in “Carousel” or “I Am What I Am” from “Les Cage Aux Folles.” Gray's facile delivery makes for great storytelling in song.
Carla (Ashley Harris), Guido's primary non-wife squeeze, achieves greatness in keeping her towel at just the right position while creating lascivious images in the minds of the men in the audience.
Liliane LeFleur (Karen Murdock) lived and breathed the role of Guido’s film producer. Murdock continues to be one of the finest singer/actors in the region. The finest detail does not escape her, even to the exquisite choice of her very European hairstyle. Visually reminiscent of both Judy Garland and Edith Piaf, her accent was the best of the cast. Le Fleur led the major production number “Follies Bergeres” with great energy and engagement.
Saraghina (Eleonore Thomas) delivered such a barefooted performance so Italian earthy I could visualize her stomping grapes on the hillside. The on stage experience she gave the young Guido (Nolan Moss) he will never forget!
The eight-member orchestra must have been sitting on each other's shoulders in the cramped space allotted. Conductor Chris Tolemeo created a beautiful sound with instruments not normally considered in community theatre; cello, woodwinds and violin. The cellist, Ezgi Yargici, was especially evocative in “Simple.”
The closer of Act I, “The Bells of St. Sebastian” is a searing exposé of the hypocrisy of Catholic school education.
Choreographer Dawn Morningstar was creative with the large numbers of people and their varying degrees of dance experience.
----------
Friday, April 22, 2011
NCT bares ALL in Full Monty
In the Americanized stage version adapted from the British film of the same name, 6 unemployed Buffalo steel workers, low on both cash and prospects, decide to present a strip act at a local club after seeing their wives' enthusiasm for a touring company of Chippendales. One of them, Jerry, declares that their show will be better than the Chippendales dancers because they'll go 'the full monty" - strip all the way.
As they prepare for the show, working through their fears, self-consciousness, and anxieties, they overcome their inner demons and find strength in their camaraderie.
From last month's fully clothed “Cats” to half naked men, NCT continues to stretch both boundaries and – in “Monty” – waistlines.
Performing this show in your hometown takes prodigious chutzpah. Some of the actors might benefit from a Y membership. To quote Cary Grant in the classic Rudyard Kipling movie, “You're a braver man than me, Gunga Din”
David Yazbek created both music and lyrics. The latter especially was clever by two, reminiscent of the wit and playfulness of the wittiest and most playful composer ever, Cole Porter. (The Brandywiners is staging his most famous...”Kiss Me Kate”...this summer.)
Double entendres are dispatched as speedily as shirts are stripped. The strong ensemble is led by NCT veteran Paul Goodman as Jerry. His singing voice evokes the pathos and despair that comes from a husband's and father's inability to provide for his family. I do wish that Director Chris Alberts and he would discuss the poignant scene in which Jerry's young son gives his Dad the money to rent the hall. It was all over too quick in relation to the heartstrings that could have been pulled and the eyes that could have moistened.
Doffing one's clothes does bond a cast. This carries over to the mellifluous harmonies as well in “The Mill”. Peter Briccotto (Malcolm), Andre Dion Willis (Horse...please, please don't ask me why) and Patrick O'Hara (Harold), Method actors all, created defined characterizations of those who would risk all to do what they felt was the right thing.
The Full Monty lasted on Broadway for 770 shows not only because it was a truly outrageous idea, but also because it spoke directly to our insecurities. NCT translates that for us in a triumphant manner.
And, ladies, not to fret. Even dear sister Liz, her program at the ready to shield her cute baby blues, never had to look away!
Running to May 22. NewCandlelightTheatre.com 475.2313
Great Ideas for Delaware. Our first initiative
Jayne Armstrong, District Director of the SBA
Small businesses are the big winners in the recent passage of the federal Small Business Jobs Act. The landmark economic recovery legislation supports a number of new initiatives designed to expand access to capital and export markets.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) launched its Community Advantage and Small Loan Advantage loan programs to help undeserved markets access loans under $250,000. Small Loan Advantage loans are offered through SBA preferred lenders and feature a two-page application and approvals in a matter of minutes through the agency’s electronic E-Tran system. Community Advantage loans expand SBA’s lending network by targeting Community Development Financial Institutions, SBA’s Certified Development Companies and SBA non-profit micro lenders.
Companies impacted by maturing mortgages and balloon notes can now refinance their commercial real estate under SBA’s 504 Refinance Program. The SBA also introduced dealer floor plan financing up to $5 million for dealers servicing the auto, boat, recreational vehicle, motorcycle and manufactured housing industries.
The legislation also expands export opportunities for small businesses. The SBA’s State Trade and Export Promotion grant program provides $90 million over three years to fund state export initiatives.
For more information, contact the SBA Delaware District Office at (302) 573-6294 or visit www.sba.gov
If you have a Great Idea for Delaware, firestone@delaware.net
As they prepare for the show, working through their fears, self-consciousness, and anxieties, they overcome their inner demons and find strength in their camaraderie.
From last month's fully clothed “Cats” to half naked men, NCT continues to stretch both boundaries and – in “Monty” – waistlines.
Performing this show in your hometown takes prodigious chutzpah. Some of the actors might benefit from a Y membership. To quote Cary Grant in the classic Rudyard Kipling movie, “You're a braver man than me, Gunga Din”
David Yazbek created both music and lyrics. The latter especially was clever by two, reminiscent of the wit and playfulness of the wittiest and most playful composer ever, Cole Porter. (The Brandywiners is staging his most famous...”Kiss Me Kate”...this summer.)
Double entendres are dispatched as speedily as shirts are stripped. The strong ensemble is led by NCT veteran Paul Goodman as Jerry. His singing voice evokes the pathos and despair that comes from a husband's and father's inability to provide for his family. I do wish that Director Chris Alberts and he would discuss the poignant scene in which Jerry's young son gives his Dad the money to rent the hall. It was all over too quick in relation to the heartstrings that could have been pulled and the eyes that could have moistened.
Doffing one's clothes does bond a cast. This carries over to the mellifluous harmonies as well in “The Mill”. Peter Briccotto (Malcolm), Andre Dion Willis (Horse...please, please don't ask me why) and Patrick O'Hara (Harold), Method actors all, created defined characterizations of those who would risk all to do what they felt was the right thing.
The Full Monty lasted on Broadway for 770 shows not only because it was a truly outrageous idea, but also because it spoke directly to our insecurities. NCT translates that for us in a triumphant manner.
And, ladies, not to fret. Even dear sister Liz, her program at the ready to shield her cute baby blues, never had to look away!
Running to May 22. NewCandlelightTheatre.com 475.2313
Great Ideas for Delaware. Our first initiative
Jayne Armstrong, District Director of the SBA
Small businesses are the big winners in the recent passage of the federal Small Business Jobs Act. The landmark economic recovery legislation supports a number of new initiatives designed to expand access to capital and export markets.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) launched its Community Advantage and Small Loan Advantage loan programs to help undeserved markets access loans under $250,000. Small Loan Advantage loans are offered through SBA preferred lenders and feature a two-page application and approvals in a matter of minutes through the agency’s electronic E-Tran system. Community Advantage loans expand SBA’s lending network by targeting Community Development Financial Institutions, SBA’s Certified Development Companies and SBA non-profit micro lenders.
Companies impacted by maturing mortgages and balloon notes can now refinance their commercial real estate under SBA’s 504 Refinance Program. The SBA also introduced dealer floor plan financing up to $5 million for dealers servicing the auto, boat, recreational vehicle, motorcycle and manufactured housing industries.
The legislation also expands export opportunities for small businesses. The SBA’s State Trade and Export Promotion grant program provides $90 million over three years to fund state export initiatives.
For more information, contact the SBA Delaware District Office at (302) 573-6294 or visit www.sba.gov
If you have a Great Idea for Delaware, firestone@delaware.net
Opera Delaware and UD REP Ensemble
The time and energy expended for 3 performances. The professional casts, the orchestra, the sets, the costumes, the lighting, the rehearsals, the EGOS, the DIVAS!
More than a job, staging these impressive productions year in year out is a labor of love for those at Opera Delaware. In decades past, when Aisle Say was actively involved with community theatre, I never auditioned for a show that did not run a minimum of two weekends. All that effort for a couple shows? No thanks. Yet Opera Delaware continues to achieve superb reviews, not only locally but from national publications.
Lee Kimball has a visionary eye, a talent as mysterious as the hairline of Donald Trump. He sees and hears qualities in people who will go on to even greater heights internationally. Laura Pederson, the very wealthy and ergo, very merry widow, has performed in various divertisements at Carnegie Hall. Kimball picked her out as Musetta in OD's La Boheme. Now yet another stepping stone in the soprano's career.
So many operas end with unrequited love, sturm und drang and yes, daggers plunging into assorted beating breasts. In 'The Merry Widow', there are more sanguine expectations.
The government needs Hanna's money to stay in their impoverished country. The politicians wish her to marry Danilo to ensure the same. Aha! It emerges that the two were in love before her marriage, but his uncle interrupted their romance because Hanna had absolutely nothing to her name. Circumstances have changed. Although they still love each other, Danilo refuses to court Hanna because of her fortune and Hanna vows she will not marry him until he says "I love you". Let's get this straight...three little words and the country remains solvent? Get with the program, Danilo!
Long time friend Joan Goodfellow plays Olga. In the '70's Joan was in a movie with Jan Michael Vincent and Robert Ryan entitled 'Buster and Billie'. Jan Michael was Buster, before “Airwolf”.Joan was Billie. Check it on You Tube.
(Rely on Aisle Say for institutional theatrical knowledge!)
OperaDE.org May 1, 6 and 7. 800.37-GRAND
U of D REP Ensemble premieres “O Beautiful”. An Aisle Say Exclusive!
The REP Ensemble -sans doubt the best theatre in Delaware – is diverging from its norm of classics from the Masters: Shakespeare, Shaw, Miller, Moliere, et al.
Three years in existence, Producer/Director Sandy Robbins mounts a new show, “O Beautiful” by Theresa Rebeck. Aisle Say has missed but a few of their offerings and has become friends with some of the passionately committed actors.
This will be an interesting piece for the audience and a watershed for the Ensemble. Not only must the piece reach the classically high standards of Sandy Robbins, but the play was written exclusively for them and their talents. A wonderfully intriguing challenge to succeed.
The production has been in a one year evolution. The author worked with the Ensemble actors over this time and asked for their input. It was re-written 7 times before rehearsals began. As a writer who has been there, that is a mix of both omniscient opportunity and unadulterated drudgery.
Robbins knows this show will be controversial. (But, then, what else is theatre about?) Quotes Robbins,”...it is comic, it is dramatic. It is thought provoking. In this era of divisiveness, it is a call for compassion and debate. The resolve is working together.”
Through May 15. Pttp.Udel.edu 831.2204
More than a job, staging these impressive productions year in year out is a labor of love for those at Opera Delaware. In decades past, when Aisle Say was actively involved with community theatre, I never auditioned for a show that did not run a minimum of two weekends. All that effort for a couple shows? No thanks. Yet Opera Delaware continues to achieve superb reviews, not only locally but from national publications.
Lee Kimball has a visionary eye, a talent as mysterious as the hairline of Donald Trump. He sees and hears qualities in people who will go on to even greater heights internationally. Laura Pederson, the very wealthy and ergo, very merry widow, has performed in various divertisements at Carnegie Hall. Kimball picked her out as Musetta in OD's La Boheme. Now yet another stepping stone in the soprano's career.
So many operas end with unrequited love, sturm und drang and yes, daggers plunging into assorted beating breasts. In 'The Merry Widow', there are more sanguine expectations.
The government needs Hanna's money to stay in their impoverished country. The politicians wish her to marry Danilo to ensure the same. Aha! It emerges that the two were in love before her marriage, but his uncle interrupted their romance because Hanna had absolutely nothing to her name. Circumstances have changed. Although they still love each other, Danilo refuses to court Hanna because of her fortune and Hanna vows she will not marry him until he says "I love you". Let's get this straight...three little words and the country remains solvent? Get with the program, Danilo!
Long time friend Joan Goodfellow plays Olga. In the '70's Joan was in a movie with Jan Michael Vincent and Robert Ryan entitled 'Buster and Billie'. Jan Michael was Buster, before “Airwolf”.Joan was Billie. Check it on You Tube.
(Rely on Aisle Say for institutional theatrical knowledge!)
OperaDE.org May 1, 6 and 7. 800.37-GRAND
U of D REP Ensemble premieres “O Beautiful”. An Aisle Say Exclusive!
The REP Ensemble -sans doubt the best theatre in Delaware – is diverging from its norm of classics from the Masters: Shakespeare, Shaw, Miller, Moliere, et al.
Three years in existence, Producer/Director Sandy Robbins mounts a new show, “O Beautiful” by Theresa Rebeck. Aisle Say has missed but a few of their offerings and has become friends with some of the passionately committed actors.
This will be an interesting piece for the audience and a watershed for the Ensemble. Not only must the piece reach the classically high standards of Sandy Robbins, but the play was written exclusively for them and their talents. A wonderfully intriguing challenge to succeed.
The production has been in a one year evolution. The author worked with the Ensemble actors over this time and asked for their input. It was re-written 7 times before rehearsals began. As a writer who has been there, that is a mix of both omniscient opportunity and unadulterated drudgery.
Robbins knows this show will be controversial. (But, then, what else is theatre about?) Quotes Robbins,”...it is comic, it is dramatic. It is thought provoking. In this era of divisiveness, it is a call for compassion and debate. The resolve is working together.”
Through May 15. Pttp.Udel.edu 831.2204
Sunday, April 10, 2011
World Cafe Live opens in Wilmington
World Cafe Live at The Queen Opening
Wow.!!! That was a party...the likes of which downtown Wilmington has not seen since the '70's rehabilitation of The Grand Opera House. The scintillating atmosphere reminded Aisle Say of the time he sneaked into NYC's legendary Studio 54 during its heyday in the '70's.
Energy of the packed house for the opening of The Queen on April 1 could very well have levitated the building. The guests were expectant of how this was to reinvent the former – the emphasis on former - urban equivalent of Death Valley. Euphoria overwhelmed developer Chris Buccini. There had been legions of naysayers on this project. He proved them wrong in a manner befitting royalty. This weekend was transformative for the city and the state.
The hallowed Queen, for decades a dilapidated and dank cavern reaching from Market to King Sts, has been transmogrified into a state of the art hall for music, food, drink and meetings. The pathways to the various spaces reminds one of the Roman catacombs, quickly opening up to a destination of an intimate bar or tricked-out conversation space. The interior design has retained the most interesting aspects of its original stature from over 100 years ago. The oversized original murals are so very cool. The meeting spaces on the 3rd and 4th floors look out over Market Street through 10 foot clerestory windows.
While sold as a VIP night (which one must question for I was allowed in without a disguise), I can testify that I recognized only about 25% of the assemblage...and I'm a native!. Considering this will open Wilmington to completely new audiences, that's a very good thing!
Our city has never seen such diversity in live programming as is promoted on their web site. Saturday mornings are devoted to children's events. All told, over 200 gigs have already been booked. Timidity is not in the vocabulary of this organization: jazz, blues, bluegrass, open mic, classical, folk, new world, you name it. The seating is flexible to cater to both large and small groups of guests at an event.
While The DuPont Theatre's mission does not conflict with World Cafe Live, there is overlap with The Grand. I would hazard a guess and suggest that the latter's demographics are a bit older. The artists at The Grand enjoy more national and international cachet, but that does not suggest that World Cafe is nothing if not Tonto with his ear to the ground listening for new talent. (Not many have heard of Josh Ritter, the entertainer at last week's donors-only soirée. That man is a pure poet and Aisle Say has a Pandora station dedicated to his music. It was announced that evening that philanthropist Tatiana Copeland gave $1 million in matching funds).
My point is regarding the bigger picture. Over one weekend World Cafe is the new elephant on Market Street. It is absolutely essential that the World Cafe and The Grand work together. The powers that be should have weekly powwows. In the past, Mayor Baker has trumpeted “world class city” for Wilmington. Until this weekend, that was all smoke and mirrors. Now we can make that phrase reality.
The Grand and The Queen have historic interiors, great acoustics, centuries old tradition and strong and passionate leaders. The mission must be to complement. Everyone benefits with a coordinated plan; the institutions, the musicians and most assuredly all Delawareans.
http://queen.worldcafelive.com/
Aisle Say wishes to thank Jayne Armstrong, District Director of the SBA for her “Great Idea For Delaware. We will run it next week. If you have a Great Idea, let everyone else know it. firestone@delaware.net
Wow.!!! That was a party...the likes of which downtown Wilmington has not seen since the '70's rehabilitation of The Grand Opera House. The scintillating atmosphere reminded Aisle Say of the time he sneaked into NYC's legendary Studio 54 during its heyday in the '70's.
Energy of the packed house for the opening of The Queen on April 1 could very well have levitated the building. The guests were expectant of how this was to reinvent the former – the emphasis on former - urban equivalent of Death Valley. Euphoria overwhelmed developer Chris Buccini. There had been legions of naysayers on this project. He proved them wrong in a manner befitting royalty. This weekend was transformative for the city and the state.
The hallowed Queen, for decades a dilapidated and dank cavern reaching from Market to King Sts, has been transmogrified into a state of the art hall for music, food, drink and meetings. The pathways to the various spaces reminds one of the Roman catacombs, quickly opening up to a destination of an intimate bar or tricked-out conversation space. The interior design has retained the most interesting aspects of its original stature from over 100 years ago. The oversized original murals are so very cool. The meeting spaces on the 3rd and 4th floors look out over Market Street through 10 foot clerestory windows.
While sold as a VIP night (which one must question for I was allowed in without a disguise), I can testify that I recognized only about 25% of the assemblage...and I'm a native!. Considering this will open Wilmington to completely new audiences, that's a very good thing!
Our city has never seen such diversity in live programming as is promoted on their web site. Saturday mornings are devoted to children's events. All told, over 200 gigs have already been booked. Timidity is not in the vocabulary of this organization: jazz, blues, bluegrass, open mic, classical, folk, new world, you name it. The seating is flexible to cater to both large and small groups of guests at an event.
While The DuPont Theatre's mission does not conflict with World Cafe Live, there is overlap with The Grand. I would hazard a guess and suggest that the latter's demographics are a bit older. The artists at The Grand enjoy more national and international cachet, but that does not suggest that World Cafe is nothing if not Tonto with his ear to the ground listening for new talent. (Not many have heard of Josh Ritter, the entertainer at last week's donors-only soirée. That man is a pure poet and Aisle Say has a Pandora station dedicated to his music. It was announced that evening that philanthropist Tatiana Copeland gave $1 million in matching funds).
My point is regarding the bigger picture. Over one weekend World Cafe is the new elephant on Market Street. It is absolutely essential that the World Cafe and The Grand work together. The powers that be should have weekly powwows. In the past, Mayor Baker has trumpeted “world class city” for Wilmington. Until this weekend, that was all smoke and mirrors. Now we can make that phrase reality.
The Grand and The Queen have historic interiors, great acoustics, centuries old tradition and strong and passionate leaders. The mission must be to complement. Everyone benefits with a coordinated plan; the institutions, the musicians and most assuredly all Delawareans.
http://queen.worldcafelive.com/
Aisle Say wishes to thank Jayne Armstrong, District Director of the SBA for her “Great Idea For Delaware. We will run it next week. If you have a Great Idea, let everyone else know it. firestone@delaware.net
Elephant Man/ 1st State Ballet
WDL's “Elephant Man” compelling yet uneven
John Merrick was an English man in the late 1800's with severe deformities who was exhibited as a human curiosity. He began to develop abnormally during the first few years of his life. His skin appeared thick and lumpy, he developed an enlargement of his lips, and a bony lump grew on his forehead. One of his arms and both feet became enlarged and at some point during his childhood he fell and damaged his hip, resulting in permanent lameness. When he was 11, his mother died and his father soon remarried. Rejected by his father and stepmother, he left home. He had no formal education.
His true story is one not of bitterness toward the life thrust on him, but redemption of the soul.
Rookie director Andrew Chambliss fortunately surrounded himself with a few community theatre veterans to produce a drama as variegated as Merrick's own skull. His pacing was a bit slow. Theatres, to reduce set costs, are employing slides back lit on screens to create the period feel. Chambliss' choices were good but projecting them on the walls of WDL took away from the action on stage. While I have no doubt the director researched the original novel thoroughly, neither I nor my companion could understand the relevance of the two “Pinhead” girls to the plot.
Merrick (Craig Stump), sans makeup, was excellent in his portrayal; exhibiting anguish, pain, heartbreak and humility. Frederick Treves (Edward Emmi) displayed his character's hypocrisy with panache and a consistent accent. Mrs. Kendal (Nance Weber) can always be counted on for a strong performance.
Til April 2. WilmingtonDramaLeague.org 764.11172
World Premiere at The Barnstormers in Ridley Park
Aisle Say has til now never ventured just two exits into PA from 95 to visit Barnstormers, but it has long been a venue for many accomplished Delaware theatre people.
We all like Shakespeare's prose. Even more than that, we all like to make fun of trailer parks and their stereotypical inhabitants. (Though never willing to admit this in any watering hole in Greenville, Aisle Say has been fascinated with women in spandex, hair curlers, chewing 4 sticks of gum while decimating the English language out of one side of their mouth. )
The collision of this irresistible force and immovable object occurs with the World Premiere of “Shakespeare in the Trailer Park.” Veteran Director Marsha Amato-Greenspan leads a cast with Delaware ties, including the much-too-cute-for-her-own-safety Dina Bogina, Cindy and Bill Starcher, Tim Sheridan, Nancy Kersey and Karyn Fry.
Til April 10. BarnstormersTheater.com 610.461.9969
First State Ballet to stage The Adventures of Pinocchio at The Grand
Contrary to opinion from Aisle Say's two ex's, he will not be dancing the title character in 1st State Ballet's current production.
On April 8 and 9 on the main stage of Wilmington’s Grand Opera House, First State Ballet Theatre, Delaware’s professional ballet company, will present, The Adventures of Pinocchio, another FSBT world premiere by internationally acclaimed choreographer Viktor Plotnikov.
Based on the famed children’s story by Carlo Collodialso made popular as a Disney classic children’s moviePlotnikov’s Pinocchio is set to exciting and familiar opera highlights including the works of Donizetti, Gounod, Rossini, Verdi and others. The 60 plus person cast will wear spectacular new Plotnikov-designed costumes now being created in Russia.
TicketsattheGrand.org 877.37 GRAND
John Merrick was an English man in the late 1800's with severe deformities who was exhibited as a human curiosity. He began to develop abnormally during the first few years of his life. His skin appeared thick and lumpy, he developed an enlargement of his lips, and a bony lump grew on his forehead. One of his arms and both feet became enlarged and at some point during his childhood he fell and damaged his hip, resulting in permanent lameness. When he was 11, his mother died and his father soon remarried. Rejected by his father and stepmother, he left home. He had no formal education.
His true story is one not of bitterness toward the life thrust on him, but redemption of the soul.
Rookie director Andrew Chambliss fortunately surrounded himself with a few community theatre veterans to produce a drama as variegated as Merrick's own skull. His pacing was a bit slow. Theatres, to reduce set costs, are employing slides back lit on screens to create the period feel. Chambliss' choices were good but projecting them on the walls of WDL took away from the action on stage. While I have no doubt the director researched the original novel thoroughly, neither I nor my companion could understand the relevance of the two “Pinhead” girls to the plot.
Merrick (Craig Stump), sans makeup, was excellent in his portrayal; exhibiting anguish, pain, heartbreak and humility. Frederick Treves (Edward Emmi) displayed his character's hypocrisy with panache and a consistent accent. Mrs. Kendal (Nance Weber) can always be counted on for a strong performance.
Til April 2. WilmingtonDramaLeague.org 764.11172
World Premiere at The Barnstormers in Ridley Park
Aisle Say has til now never ventured just two exits into PA from 95 to visit Barnstormers, but it has long been a venue for many accomplished Delaware theatre people.
We all like Shakespeare's prose. Even more than that, we all like to make fun of trailer parks and their stereotypical inhabitants. (Though never willing to admit this in any watering hole in Greenville, Aisle Say has been fascinated with women in spandex, hair curlers, chewing 4 sticks of gum while decimating the English language out of one side of their mouth. )
The collision of this irresistible force and immovable object occurs with the World Premiere of “Shakespeare in the Trailer Park.” Veteran Director Marsha Amato-Greenspan leads a cast with Delaware ties, including the much-too-cute-for-her-own-safety Dina Bogina, Cindy and Bill Starcher, Tim Sheridan, Nancy Kersey and Karyn Fry.
Til April 10. BarnstormersTheater.com 610.461.9969
First State Ballet to stage The Adventures of Pinocchio at The Grand
Contrary to opinion from Aisle Say's two ex's, he will not be dancing the title character in 1st State Ballet's current production.
On April 8 and 9 on the main stage of Wilmington’s Grand Opera House, First State Ballet Theatre, Delaware’s professional ballet company, will present, The Adventures of Pinocchio, another FSBT world premiere by internationally acclaimed choreographer Viktor Plotnikov.
Based on the famed children’s story by Carlo Collodialso made popular as a Disney classic children’s moviePlotnikov’s Pinocchio is set to exciting and familiar opera highlights including the works of Donizetti, Gounod, Rossini, Verdi and others. The 60 plus person cast will wear spectacular new Plotnikov-designed costumes now being created in Russia.
TicketsattheGrand.org 877.37 GRAND
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Opera Delaware gets Intimate!
OPERADELAWARE gets Intimate
OperaDelaware has added a Studio Series to its Spring schedule. The cabaret-style evening of opera entertainment will be presented in the intimate surroundings of Opera Studios overlooking the Christina River on Fri., March and Sat., March 19 at 7:30 pm, and on Sun., March 20 at 2 pm, at 4 South Poplar Street, Wilmington.
Leads from future and past productions of OperaDelaware will sing a combination of opera’s greatest hits along with a few interesting selections from operas never performed in their entirety in Wilmington. Guests can sit at V.I.P. tables or in general admission and enjoy a glass of wine or beer while listening to their favorite arias.
“Last year’s Studio Series was a tremendous hit,” says executive director Lee Kimball. “Folks can get their feet wet with opera without having to commit to an entire evening of one opera. We expect they’ll come back for more.”
Jeffrey Miller, OperaDelaware’s Music Director, will accompany the singers and provide commentary.
Soloists will include Susan Nelson and her sister Joanna Gates,who will perform the famous “sister” duet from Cosi Fan Tutte and “Sorgi, O Padre” from Bellini’s Bianca e Fernando; Jeff Chapman, the Count in Le Nozze di Figaro and Marcello in La Boheme; Elisa Matthews, Susanna in Le Nozze di Figaro and Beth in Little Women and members of the Wilmington Childrens Chorus. Guest artists include countertenor Gus Mercante, Lynne Claire Morse and Melody Wilson.
Aisle Say heard Elisa Matthews perform in the musical “Jekyll & Hyde” at Media Theatre. I do not recall my exact quote about her voice, but do remember my very visceral reaction; identical to the swoon cascading over my body when Sarah Brightman first sang “Time To Say Goodbye” to Andrea Bocelli.
For tickets 1-800-37-GRAND
AISLE SAY “Scoop of the Month”
Aisle Say has shown a consistent pattern of scooping our esteemed daily newspaper through his years of bulldogged and unrelenting investigative reporting.
The corporate papers from “The Smartest Guys in the Room” are now ensconced and online at Hagley Museum and Library. A decade ago, the mixture of hubris, auditing corruption, disgraceful corporate governance and Olympian greed brought about the scandal we know as Enron.
Donated by a former board member of Enron, the papers arrived at the Museum in November, were scanned in and made keyword searchable. The minutes are a text for any school of business with a course on deception. Lynn Catanese, Hagley's curator of manuscripts and archives says, “these documents have historical significance to scholars and students”.
Enron was not the biggest bankruptcy in US history, but it destroyed countless lives, made smithereens of Arthur Anderson and engendered the Sarbanes-Oxley legislative reforms. The above titled documentary film was an award winner. I still recall seeing Chairman Ken Lay do his perp walk. President Jeffrey Skilling is still behind bars and in February of this year, his 20 year old son od'd. (Thanks for the legacy, Dad!)
Internal documents may not appear to be as compelling as a quote from Charlie Sheen, but they are 'Winning' in their own right and serve as criterion on how to avoid being the next Enron.
The Library also houses the business records of Avon, Sun Oil, Wawa, Strawbridge & Clothier and, of course, Du Pont Co.
www.hagley.org/library/enron
OperaDelaware has added a Studio Series to its Spring schedule. The cabaret-style evening of opera entertainment will be presented in the intimate surroundings of Opera Studios overlooking the Christina River on Fri., March and Sat., March 19 at 7:30 pm, and on Sun., March 20 at 2 pm, at 4 South Poplar Street, Wilmington.
Leads from future and past productions of OperaDelaware will sing a combination of opera’s greatest hits along with a few interesting selections from operas never performed in their entirety in Wilmington. Guests can sit at V.I.P. tables or in general admission and enjoy a glass of wine or beer while listening to their favorite arias.
“Last year’s Studio Series was a tremendous hit,” says executive director Lee Kimball. “Folks can get their feet wet with opera without having to commit to an entire evening of one opera. We expect they’ll come back for more.”
Jeffrey Miller, OperaDelaware’s Music Director, will accompany the singers and provide commentary.
Soloists will include Susan Nelson and her sister Joanna Gates,who will perform the famous “sister” duet from Cosi Fan Tutte and “Sorgi, O Padre” from Bellini’s Bianca e Fernando; Jeff Chapman, the Count in Le Nozze di Figaro and Marcello in La Boheme; Elisa Matthews, Susanna in Le Nozze di Figaro and Beth in Little Women and members of the Wilmington Childrens Chorus. Guest artists include countertenor Gus Mercante, Lynne Claire Morse and Melody Wilson.
Aisle Say heard Elisa Matthews perform in the musical “Jekyll & Hyde” at Media Theatre. I do not recall my exact quote about her voice, but do remember my very visceral reaction; identical to the swoon cascading over my body when Sarah Brightman first sang “Time To Say Goodbye” to Andrea Bocelli.
For tickets 1-800-37-GRAND
AISLE SAY “Scoop of the Month”
Aisle Say has shown a consistent pattern of scooping our esteemed daily newspaper through his years of bulldogged and unrelenting investigative reporting.
The corporate papers from “The Smartest Guys in the Room” are now ensconced and online at Hagley Museum and Library. A decade ago, the mixture of hubris, auditing corruption, disgraceful corporate governance and Olympian greed brought about the scandal we know as Enron.
Donated by a former board member of Enron, the papers arrived at the Museum in November, were scanned in and made keyword searchable. The minutes are a text for any school of business with a course on deception. Lynn Catanese, Hagley's curator of manuscripts and archives says, “these documents have historical significance to scholars and students”.
Enron was not the biggest bankruptcy in US history, but it destroyed countless lives, made smithereens of Arthur Anderson and engendered the Sarbanes-Oxley legislative reforms. The above titled documentary film was an award winner. I still recall seeing Chairman Ken Lay do his perp walk. President Jeffrey Skilling is still behind bars and in February of this year, his 20 year old son od'd. (Thanks for the legacy, Dad!)
Internal documents may not appear to be as compelling as a quote from Charlie Sheen, but they are 'Winning' in their own right and serve as criterion on how to avoid being the next Enron.
The Library also houses the business records of Avon, Sun Oil, Wawa, Strawbridge & Clothier and, of course, Du Pont Co.
www.hagley.org/library/enron
Thursday, March 10, 2011
David Flemng is new Development Director at The Grand
When Dave Fleming was Executive Director of the major performing arts center in Austin TX, Larry Gatlin of The Gatlin Brothers became a friend. Gatlin was waxing philosophic one evening and delivered a phrase that now is prophetic: “You spend half your life trying to get out of town....and the other half fighting your way back.”
Fleming, who was hired as ED of The Grand in 1982, held that position for a decade. He left Wilmington for a bigger theatre and opportunity in New Brunswick NJ. Then on to Austin, Green Bay and the Berkshires as leader of performing arts venues.
Now Dave's Great Mandala brings him back to his hometown and back to The Grand as Development Director.
Though recently living in Massachusetts, Dave and high school sweetheart wife Cathy had kept in touch with Delaware events through the decades. He was aware of the financial stress of The Grand and reached out to friend and colleague ED Steve Bailey. Dave wanted to write a letter to the editor about the desperate need for performing arts in the community. During the conversation, Bailey asked what Dave was doing. “Well, I'm retired....and I am b-o-r-e-d.”
Bailey responded, “Come back to The Grand, man. We need you.”
Dave and I attended Brandywine High together in the '60's. In fact, we were in the first ever Brandywine High Alumni Theatre Association production of “Carnival”., in 1968. (It must be noted that dear sister Liz portrayed 'The Bearded Lady' of the circus, undeniably her most compelling stage role. While she had no speaking lines, Liz brought great pathos to her hirsute character. People talk about it even today.)
In the hippie '70's Dave and I worked together with Earth Shoes in Washington D.C. When I saw him last week at a Grand fund raiser, I exclaimed, 'What in the world are you doing here?”
The House of Medici, the imperious and iron fisted rulers of The Grand during the '90's were long gone. If tar and feathering were legal, their sycophantic Executive Director would have been escorted out of town in this fashion, with Aisle Say leading the charge.
Steve Bailey took over the reins in what Fleming has called “the toughest environment I have ever witnessed. Only now are we seeing the appearance of some light.”
Aisle Say was in attendance the night of the unveiling of the 2011 $10 million capital campaign. Philanthropist Tatiana Copeland announced that she and her husband would donate $1 million each. With others chipping in, that night concluded with 45% of the deal done.
One of Fleming's jobs will be to go after those smaller, annual donors; the ones that were ignored during the Medici era. He understands that The Grand must return to a broad base of support. I need to “make connections”, “bring people back in the fold”.
Regarding The Queen: “It is our greatest fear is that it will not be successful.” The two venues are sharing and comparing notes. With the massive amount of money being poured into The Queen and the hopes for linking Market Street from the Riverfront to Rodney Square, it's failure would be death knell for revitalization.
On the perception of downtown Wilmington, Dave had an interesting take. “Crime occurs when there are few people around. Frankly, the more people on the street, the less likelihood of crime. Therefore, if The Queen brings even more people to their box office, both our entities will prosper...as will our city. Then, that perception will dissipate.”
(Note: I was in a network meeting with Marty Hageman, CEO of Downtown Visions. He had statistics to substantiate that the Market Street hub is the safest place in the city.)
Says Fleming: “I care deeply about live theatre. I love my home town. I love re-connecting with old friends. I think I bring some talents to Steve and The Grand from my own professional experiences. My goal is to put The Grand on a sustainable path.”
Fleming, who was hired as ED of The Grand in 1982, held that position for a decade. He left Wilmington for a bigger theatre and opportunity in New Brunswick NJ. Then on to Austin, Green Bay and the Berkshires as leader of performing arts venues.
Now Dave's Great Mandala brings him back to his hometown and back to The Grand as Development Director.
Though recently living in Massachusetts, Dave and high school sweetheart wife Cathy had kept in touch with Delaware events through the decades. He was aware of the financial stress of The Grand and reached out to friend and colleague ED Steve Bailey. Dave wanted to write a letter to the editor about the desperate need for performing arts in the community. During the conversation, Bailey asked what Dave was doing. “Well, I'm retired....and I am b-o-r-e-d.”
Bailey responded, “Come back to The Grand, man. We need you.”
Dave and I attended Brandywine High together in the '60's. In fact, we were in the first ever Brandywine High Alumni Theatre Association production of “Carnival”., in 1968. (It must be noted that dear sister Liz portrayed 'The Bearded Lady' of the circus, undeniably her most compelling stage role. While she had no speaking lines, Liz brought great pathos to her hirsute character. People talk about it even today.)
In the hippie '70's Dave and I worked together with Earth Shoes in Washington D.C. When I saw him last week at a Grand fund raiser, I exclaimed, 'What in the world are you doing here?”
The House of Medici, the imperious and iron fisted rulers of The Grand during the '90's were long gone. If tar and feathering were legal, their sycophantic Executive Director would have been escorted out of town in this fashion, with Aisle Say leading the charge.
Steve Bailey took over the reins in what Fleming has called “the toughest environment I have ever witnessed. Only now are we seeing the appearance of some light.”
Aisle Say was in attendance the night of the unveiling of the 2011 $10 million capital campaign. Philanthropist Tatiana Copeland announced that she and her husband would donate $1 million each. With others chipping in, that night concluded with 45% of the deal done.
One of Fleming's jobs will be to go after those smaller, annual donors; the ones that were ignored during the Medici era. He understands that The Grand must return to a broad base of support. I need to “make connections”, “bring people back in the fold”.
Regarding The Queen: “It is our greatest fear is that it will not be successful.” The two venues are sharing and comparing notes. With the massive amount of money being poured into The Queen and the hopes for linking Market Street from the Riverfront to Rodney Square, it's failure would be death knell for revitalization.
On the perception of downtown Wilmington, Dave had an interesting take. “Crime occurs when there are few people around. Frankly, the more people on the street, the less likelihood of crime. Therefore, if The Queen brings even more people to their box office, both our entities will prosper...as will our city. Then, that perception will dissipate.”
(Note: I was in a network meeting with Marty Hageman, CEO of Downtown Visions. He had statistics to substantiate that the Market Street hub is the safest place in the city.)
Says Fleming: “I care deeply about live theatre. I love my home town. I love re-connecting with old friends. I think I bring some talents to Steve and The Grand from my own professional experiences. My goal is to put The Grand on a sustainable path.”
Panoply of Poltergeists in Blithe Spirit
Noel Coward is one of the finest exemplars of the axiom, “With words we rule men”. There are so many of Aisle Say's own personal enemies out there – some even reading this column – about whom I could say “You'll never die....(unfortunately) you're not the dying sort.”
There is great skill attached to reciting dialog from such a prolific, urbane, clever and down right funny word smith. One's diction must be rapier precise; one's timing must be naturally born and one's eyebrows must be forever arched in devil-may-care insouciance.
While from my seat I could not see the angle of the actors' collective eyebrows, otherwise the acting ensemble at DE Theater Company achieved all the elements in performance of a Coward script.
Director Domenec Scudera assembled the most skilled actors in this DTC season. There were multiple attempts at physical humor early on with klutzy maid Edith (Sarah Doherty) that had no basis in the real world as Aisle Say (and dear sister Liz) perceives it. The pratfalls were both a stretch and an eye rolling strain to credulity. Otherwise the pace was swift and the acting confidant.
A full house on opening night was greeted by a set (Designer John Raley) clever by two for a Coward play. The audience sitting center and left saw a dining room through double doors and a foyer. A very inventive conceit by Raley.
Husband / wife team of Dr. Bradman (Peter DeLaurier) and Mrs. Bradman (Ceal Phelan), two-thirds of the founding team of DTC in 1973 – along with Cleveland Morris – returned to their own 'haunts'...(this IS “Blithe Spirit, you know)! Phelan has played both Ruth and Elvira in past productions of her storied and enviable career.
Act II was the most fun. The characters had been introduced in the bit longish and drawn out first. But now the energy level rose and the story went a pretty pace.
Charles (James Michael Reilly) maintained a calm demeanor on the exterior with a more or less evil one inside. (I surmise wishing one's wife dead would be categorized that way. However, it's all in the execution, is it not?)
Ruth (Christie Parker) expressed love for her husband, disbelief at this blithe spirit taking over their home and a wonderful justification in her vengeance.
Beth Hylton (Elvira) took over the audience upon her first entrance. Great theatre is about surprise. Coward knew that. That's why, in 1941, with the dread of the German bombing of London he wrote the show in 6 days. Elvira surprised us with her bouncy exuberance from her entrance and we were hooked.
The comedic star of the show was Madame Arcadi (Meghan Colleen Moroney). Never without a witty, compelling and jaw dropping repartee to her inquisitors, she was a delight. We were convulsed as she walked about the sitting room surveying for fairies, apparitions or whatever blithe spirits she was divining for.
Through March 20. DelawareTheatre.org 594.1100
There is great skill attached to reciting dialog from such a prolific, urbane, clever and down right funny word smith. One's diction must be rapier precise; one's timing must be naturally born and one's eyebrows must be forever arched in devil-may-care insouciance.
While from my seat I could not see the angle of the actors' collective eyebrows, otherwise the acting ensemble at DE Theater Company achieved all the elements in performance of a Coward script.
Director Domenec Scudera assembled the most skilled actors in this DTC season. There were multiple attempts at physical humor early on with klutzy maid Edith (Sarah Doherty) that had no basis in the real world as Aisle Say (and dear sister Liz) perceives it. The pratfalls were both a stretch and an eye rolling strain to credulity. Otherwise the pace was swift and the acting confidant.
A full house on opening night was greeted by a set (Designer John Raley) clever by two for a Coward play. The audience sitting center and left saw a dining room through double doors and a foyer. A very inventive conceit by Raley.
Husband / wife team of Dr. Bradman (Peter DeLaurier) and Mrs. Bradman (Ceal Phelan), two-thirds of the founding team of DTC in 1973 – along with Cleveland Morris – returned to their own 'haunts'...(this IS “Blithe Spirit, you know)! Phelan has played both Ruth and Elvira in past productions of her storied and enviable career.
Act II was the most fun. The characters had been introduced in the bit longish and drawn out first. But now the energy level rose and the story went a pretty pace.
Charles (James Michael Reilly) maintained a calm demeanor on the exterior with a more or less evil one inside. (I surmise wishing one's wife dead would be categorized that way. However, it's all in the execution, is it not?)
Ruth (Christie Parker) expressed love for her husband, disbelief at this blithe spirit taking over their home and a wonderful justification in her vengeance.
Beth Hylton (Elvira) took over the audience upon her first entrance. Great theatre is about surprise. Coward knew that. That's why, in 1941, with the dread of the German bombing of London he wrote the show in 6 days. Elvira surprised us with her bouncy exuberance from her entrance and we were hooked.
The comedic star of the show was Madame Arcadi (Meghan Colleen Moroney). Never without a witty, compelling and jaw dropping repartee to her inquisitors, she was a delight. We were convulsed as she walked about the sitting room surveying for fairies, apparitions or whatever blithe spirits she was divining for.
Through March 20. DelawareTheatre.org 594.1100
Monday, February 21, 2011
Du Pont - A Family A Company
Back in ancient history, during the reign of King Thomas de Gordon of the Sovereign County of Nouveau Castle in the land of Delaware, money flowed freely about the empire. Through his ascendancy, King de Gordon brought into his inner circle a former leader of the royal armed guards of Nouveau County and a woman who was possessed of singular skills. She was a member of the bourgeoisie named Madame Sherry Freebury.
For some small minded critics (most certainly of low peasant heritage), King de Gordon and Madame Freebury were present day incarnations of King Louis XV and Madame de Pompadour.
It was an extravagant era. The King and the Madame built their own Taj Mahal (The Hockessin PAL Center). They invested a million or so francs to bring the Wild West here to our sovereign East Coast county (the OK Corral facade at Carousel Park). A like amount went to renovate a barn at Rockwood Mansion that unhappily sits unused 300 days a year.
Yet it was a magical era. The King himself decreed that hair should sprout on his own bald pate, (which had alas been barren since his twentieth year). Voila....there was hair!
The money flowed like wine at a Versailles bacchanal. To the critics who said they should quit their profligacies, the two shouted them down, “Let them eat cake!”.”Apres moi, le deluge”!
And during that dynasty, Aisle Say himself benefited. He was given a commission by The King and The Madame to write a Living History drama at Rockwood Mansion about the Shipley family, the builders of this Gothic edifice (one of only two or three of this peculiar architectural design in these United States).
That venture went so swimmingly that Aisle Say embarked in 2002 - the bicentennial year of the DuPont Co – to write a Living History drama set to original music entitled “DuPont - A Family A Company”.
My father was a lifer with DuPont, he of the '50's gray flannel suit, pressed white shirt and horn rimmed glasses. He would bring home clothes for my family to wear test. Dad was handed wing tips made of Corfam. That synthetic, created at the X station, was promoted to be the synthetic shoe that never wore out. That was very true. It never wore out because the shoes were never worn after the first week. They did not breathe and within hours the wearer experienced a foot sauna. Corfam was DuPont's Edsel.
A history buff, where else would I go to research the family and company but Hagley Museum and Library. With the mission to create an hour drama, time and space would be a challenge; 200 years must be severely compacted into a few 'watershed' scenes. Here was the task:
Historically accurate; period costumes; period music; period instrumentation; authentic dialects
To educate and entertain the audience on the evolution of DuPont from the banks of the Brandywine to present day statewide impact and global significance.
To state that the collective fundamental precepts of quality, integrity, compassion and stewardship for the employee and the public stand the test of time over two centuries.
I selected the following scenes: 1) The Banks of The Brandywine, where Eleuthere and wife Sophie view the rushing waters which will be used to power the gun powder mill turbines; 2) a camp fire scene of the Irish mill workers. These men worked 10 hour 6 day weeks. The threat to them and their families was 'A Trip Across The Creek', always a one way trip. With an explosion of the mill, the force of the energy was directed 'across' the creek. (I discovered in my research that I am here today due to an ill-fated 'trip across the creek'. In 1847 there was a disaster at the mills. Millworker O'Brien perished. The widow O'Brien married Mr. Devlin. I am their great-great grandson on my mother's side.)
The third scene takes place in 1902, when the 3 cousins, A.I, P.S and Coleman, buy the company from the du Pont elders. This purchase would change the world and for us, irrevocably make Delaware into a global presence.
There are more scenes, taking us up to 1960, but my editor tells me I am out of space.
I have a dream to bring this Living History set to music to every elementary and middle school in the state. I don't intend to give up.
If any of the readers have an idea for an article, please email me at firestone@delaware.net
For some small minded critics (most certainly of low peasant heritage), King de Gordon and Madame Freebury were present day incarnations of King Louis XV and Madame de Pompadour.
It was an extravagant era. The King and the Madame built their own Taj Mahal (The Hockessin PAL Center). They invested a million or so francs to bring the Wild West here to our sovereign East Coast county (the OK Corral facade at Carousel Park). A like amount went to renovate a barn at Rockwood Mansion that unhappily sits unused 300 days a year.
Yet it was a magical era. The King himself decreed that hair should sprout on his own bald pate, (which had alas been barren since his twentieth year). Voila....there was hair!
The money flowed like wine at a Versailles bacchanal. To the critics who said they should quit their profligacies, the two shouted them down, “Let them eat cake!”.”Apres moi, le deluge”!
And during that dynasty, Aisle Say himself benefited. He was given a commission by The King and The Madame to write a Living History drama at Rockwood Mansion about the Shipley family, the builders of this Gothic edifice (one of only two or three of this peculiar architectural design in these United States).
That venture went so swimmingly that Aisle Say embarked in 2002 - the bicentennial year of the DuPont Co – to write a Living History drama set to original music entitled “DuPont - A Family A Company”.
My father was a lifer with DuPont, he of the '50's gray flannel suit, pressed white shirt and horn rimmed glasses. He would bring home clothes for my family to wear test. Dad was handed wing tips made of Corfam. That synthetic, created at the X station, was promoted to be the synthetic shoe that never wore out. That was very true. It never wore out because the shoes were never worn after the first week. They did not breathe and within hours the wearer experienced a foot sauna. Corfam was DuPont's Edsel.
A history buff, where else would I go to research the family and company but Hagley Museum and Library. With the mission to create an hour drama, time and space would be a challenge; 200 years must be severely compacted into a few 'watershed' scenes. Here was the task:
Historically accurate; period costumes; period music; period instrumentation; authentic dialects
To educate and entertain the audience on the evolution of DuPont from the banks of the Brandywine to present day statewide impact and global significance.
To state that the collective fundamental precepts of quality, integrity, compassion and stewardship for the employee and the public stand the test of time over two centuries.
I selected the following scenes: 1) The Banks of The Brandywine, where Eleuthere and wife Sophie view the rushing waters which will be used to power the gun powder mill turbines; 2) a camp fire scene of the Irish mill workers. These men worked 10 hour 6 day weeks. The threat to them and their families was 'A Trip Across The Creek', always a one way trip. With an explosion of the mill, the force of the energy was directed 'across' the creek. (I discovered in my research that I am here today due to an ill-fated 'trip across the creek'. In 1847 there was a disaster at the mills. Millworker O'Brien perished. The widow O'Brien married Mr. Devlin. I am their great-great grandson on my mother's side.)
The third scene takes place in 1902, when the 3 cousins, A.I, P.S and Coleman, buy the company from the du Pont elders. This purchase would change the world and for us, irrevocably make Delaware into a global presence.
There are more scenes, taking us up to 1960, but my editor tells me I am out of space.
I have a dream to bring this Living History set to music to every elementary and middle school in the state. I don't intend to give up.
If any of the readers have an idea for an article, please email me at firestone@delaware.net
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
NCT "Cats" close to purrfect
Poetry-wise, I'll say Aisle Say is strictly a simple iambic pentameter type of fellow; “listening to the loons croon under the moon in June”, that type of thing. Pick up a book of poetry? There are reruns of 'Jersey Shore' to titillate my senses, thank you very much.
T.S. Eliot wrote 'Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats” in the '30's with the premise being feline psychology and feline sociology. Eliot's nom de plume was 'Old Possum'. It was Andrew Lloyd Webber's favorite book of poetry as a child. The songs in the production are Eliot's verse set to music.
I would hazard a guess that most who witness 'Cats' for the first time are like me; with nary a clue as to theme or plot. What made this the second longest running show in Broadway history was the total preposterousness of the assumption; dozens of actors on all fours posturing and preening as do our beloved pets, outrageous costumes giving similitude to the characters, the inventive makeup, the dazzling dance and finally, Lloyd Webber's melodies which cannot be shaken from your brain unless you were hit by linebacker James Harrison of the Steelers.
Why it took decades to premiere in Delaware is a question. But, in 'cat'aclysmic understatement, the wait was worth it. Considering their budget restraints, Aisle Say does not know how they did it. But they did it! This is the finest show my dear sister Liz and I have ever seen at Candlelight in 43 years (the exception, Liz reminded me, being 'Pal Joey', in which I starred in 1970). By best I mean fully integrated; all the necessary talent demands coalesced into a fulfilling and spectacular theatrical experience. (The polar opposite being the $65 million boondoogle now on Broadway entitled “Spider-Man” and suffering from a tsunami of withering reviews. Turning that production around from the national joke it has become will be truly Sisyphean.)
The kudos begin with Director/Choreographer Dann Dunn who spent a year on the Broadway tour playing the majority of the 'cat'avating characters throughout the run. He hit the ground running the first day of rehearsal like a cheetah chasing lunch. He cast a few NCT dance stalwarts and brought in a large number of dancers who are making their NCT debut. In this show one must be a real triple threat, with the emphasis on the singing and dancing.
Scenic Designer Jeff Reim's junk yard was reminiscent of similar sets I have seen in the traveling productions of 'Cats'. Lighting Designer Chris Alberts does his normal distinguished work. Costumer Timothy Lamont Cannon doubled as Old Deuteronomy and excelled in both roles.
Here is where Aisle Say admittedly will fall short. It has been a long while since I last saw a production. With an over abundance of striped faces, fuzzy fur and painted spandex on stage, some of the cats looked alike. I was so transfixed with the delightful delirium I was witnessing, I will admit to some confusion matching actor to his part. I was looking forward to connecting feline face to name after the show but for the first time there was no 'meet and greet'.
We all know Grizabella, the Glamour Cat (Erica Scanlon Harr) and her the iconic “Memories”. Hers was a stirring rendition. Mr. Mistoffelees (Ryan Blackson), Rum Tum Tugger (Cory Wade Hindroff), Jennyandydots (Lindsay Mauck), Mungojerrie (Ricky Rotandi), Rumpleteazer (Alexis DeDonato), Gus/Bustopher Jones (David T. Snyder) and Skimbleshanks (Michael Angelini) and the entire cast was so talented and so enthusiastic I am scanning my thesaurus for platitudes as we speak.
On March 4 children under 14 are priced at $15.00
Til March 20. Some shows are sold out...deservedly so. NCTstage.org 302.475.2313
T.S. Eliot wrote 'Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats” in the '30's with the premise being feline psychology and feline sociology. Eliot's nom de plume was 'Old Possum'. It was Andrew Lloyd Webber's favorite book of poetry as a child. The songs in the production are Eliot's verse set to music.
I would hazard a guess that most who witness 'Cats' for the first time are like me; with nary a clue as to theme or plot. What made this the second longest running show in Broadway history was the total preposterousness of the assumption; dozens of actors on all fours posturing and preening as do our beloved pets, outrageous costumes giving similitude to the characters, the inventive makeup, the dazzling dance and finally, Lloyd Webber's melodies which cannot be shaken from your brain unless you were hit by linebacker James Harrison of the Steelers.
Why it took decades to premiere in Delaware is a question. But, in 'cat'aclysmic understatement, the wait was worth it. Considering their budget restraints, Aisle Say does not know how they did it. But they did it! This is the finest show my dear sister Liz and I have ever seen at Candlelight in 43 years (the exception, Liz reminded me, being 'Pal Joey', in which I starred in 1970). By best I mean fully integrated; all the necessary talent demands coalesced into a fulfilling and spectacular theatrical experience. (The polar opposite being the $65 million boondoogle now on Broadway entitled “Spider-Man” and suffering from a tsunami of withering reviews. Turning that production around from the national joke it has become will be truly Sisyphean.)
The kudos begin with Director/Choreographer Dann Dunn who spent a year on the Broadway tour playing the majority of the 'cat'avating characters throughout the run. He hit the ground running the first day of rehearsal like a cheetah chasing lunch. He cast a few NCT dance stalwarts and brought in a large number of dancers who are making their NCT debut. In this show one must be a real triple threat, with the emphasis on the singing and dancing.
Scenic Designer Jeff Reim's junk yard was reminiscent of similar sets I have seen in the traveling productions of 'Cats'. Lighting Designer Chris Alberts does his normal distinguished work. Costumer Timothy Lamont Cannon doubled as Old Deuteronomy and excelled in both roles.
Here is where Aisle Say admittedly will fall short. It has been a long while since I last saw a production. With an over abundance of striped faces, fuzzy fur and painted spandex on stage, some of the cats looked alike. I was so transfixed with the delightful delirium I was witnessing, I will admit to some confusion matching actor to his part. I was looking forward to connecting feline face to name after the show but for the first time there was no 'meet and greet'.
We all know Grizabella, the Glamour Cat (Erica Scanlon Harr) and her the iconic “Memories”. Hers was a stirring rendition. Mr. Mistoffelees (Ryan Blackson), Rum Tum Tugger (Cory Wade Hindroff), Jennyandydots (Lindsay Mauck), Mungojerrie (Ricky Rotandi), Rumpleteazer (Alexis DeDonato), Gus/Bustopher Jones (David T. Snyder) and Skimbleshanks (Michael Angelini) and the entire cast was so talented and so enthusiastic I am scanning my thesaurus for platitudes as we speak.
On March 4 children under 14 are priced at $15.00
Til March 20. Some shows are sold out...deservedly so. NCTstage.org 302.475.2313
REP Ensemble's 'Glass Menagerie" is transparent
The UD REP Ensemble stages Tennessee Williams' “The Glass Menagerie” in a set resembling a shadow box. The personalities of the characters cast oppressive shadows over one another as well. The themes are heavy: failures of capitalism, failures of the family structure and broken promises by fathers and sons.
It is considered Williams' most autobiographical play. The playwright's birth name was Thomas and the scene is a dingy apartment in St. Louis, similar to his own childhood environs. The son and brother in the play Tom (Michael Gotch) is the narrator and the tale is a recollection of his memories with his Mother and his sickly and mentally ill sister Rose.
In the play the Mother's name became Amanda (Kathleen Pirkl Tague) and Rose would become Laura (Carine Montbertrand).
Amanda's husband abandoned the family long ago. Although a survivor and a pragmatist, Amanda yearns for the illusions and comforts she remembers from her days as a fêted Southern belle. She yearns especially for these things for her daughter Laura, a young adult with a crippled foot and tremulous insecurity about the outside world.
Tom works in a warehouse, doing his best to support them. He chafes under the banality and boredom of everyday life and spends much of his spare time watching movies in cheap cinemas at all hours of the night. Amanda is obsessed with finding a suitor for Laura, who spends most of her time with her collection of glass animals, both cold and fragile.
Tom eventually brings a nice boy named Jim home for dinner at the insistence of his mother, who hopes Jim will be the long-awaited suitor for Laura. Laura realizes that Jim is the man she loved in high school and has thought of ever since. After a long evening in which Jim and Laura are left alone by candlelight in the living room, Jim reveals that he is already engaged to be married, and he leaves. Amanda is furious with Tom, accusing him of knowing beforehand this night would be a waste. The outburst is the turning point for Tom. After a lifetime of boredom, mediocrity and dashed dreams, he comes to a crushing decision. He walks down the fire escape from the apartment for the last time to seek his fortune on his own, never to return.
This was a different 'Menagerie' than Aisle Say has past witnessed. Normally Laura is on stage continually, seemingly 'Rain Man-esque 'possessed' by her inanimate figurines. Also, there is more laughter in this production. One can argue that compelling drama and riveting dialogue are the parents of great laughter. (Gotch confided in me afterwards that, due to the weather, this was the first performance in front of an audience. The cast had no clue about audience reaction.)
While it is Tom's memory that creates the chassis, Amanda's character provides both steering and motor for the vehicle. Pirkl gives us a flawless portrayal of a woman on the edge of desperation: eking out a bare subsistence, fixated on a suitor for Laura and fantasizing on a past life with a handsome and charming husband (whose portrait dominates the wall).
We see in Gotch's Tom the despair and frustration of a misbegotten life. We hear the resignation in his voice.
Montbertrand plays against character as Laura. (At least against characters Aisle Say has seen her play the past three years!) She does understatement exceedingly well; a slight turn of the head to signify insecurity, a glazed expression to express less than full mental acuity.
Jim (Erik Mathew) is the sole PTTP actor in the show, the others being full time REP Ensemble. He brings great energy to the role and, in his character, an Everyman type of sanity which plays against the repressions and hangups of the other three. He is a big man and exerts strong stage presence.
Pttp.udel.edu 302.831.2204 Thru 27 February
Aisle Say's quill pen is out of ink. The review of the SPECTACULAR and dare I say, 'Cat'aclysmic production of 'Cats' at New Candlelight must wait until next week. However, you should not wait to call 475.2313 for tickets.
It is considered Williams' most autobiographical play. The playwright's birth name was Thomas and the scene is a dingy apartment in St. Louis, similar to his own childhood environs. The son and brother in the play Tom (Michael Gotch) is the narrator and the tale is a recollection of his memories with his Mother and his sickly and mentally ill sister Rose.
In the play the Mother's name became Amanda (Kathleen Pirkl Tague) and Rose would become Laura (Carine Montbertrand).
Amanda's husband abandoned the family long ago. Although a survivor and a pragmatist, Amanda yearns for the illusions and comforts she remembers from her days as a fêted Southern belle. She yearns especially for these things for her daughter Laura, a young adult with a crippled foot and tremulous insecurity about the outside world.
Tom works in a warehouse, doing his best to support them. He chafes under the banality and boredom of everyday life and spends much of his spare time watching movies in cheap cinemas at all hours of the night. Amanda is obsessed with finding a suitor for Laura, who spends most of her time with her collection of glass animals, both cold and fragile.
Tom eventually brings a nice boy named Jim home for dinner at the insistence of his mother, who hopes Jim will be the long-awaited suitor for Laura. Laura realizes that Jim is the man she loved in high school and has thought of ever since. After a long evening in which Jim and Laura are left alone by candlelight in the living room, Jim reveals that he is already engaged to be married, and he leaves. Amanda is furious with Tom, accusing him of knowing beforehand this night would be a waste. The outburst is the turning point for Tom. After a lifetime of boredom, mediocrity and dashed dreams, he comes to a crushing decision. He walks down the fire escape from the apartment for the last time to seek his fortune on his own, never to return.
This was a different 'Menagerie' than Aisle Say has past witnessed. Normally Laura is on stage continually, seemingly 'Rain Man-esque 'possessed' by her inanimate figurines. Also, there is more laughter in this production. One can argue that compelling drama and riveting dialogue are the parents of great laughter. (Gotch confided in me afterwards that, due to the weather, this was the first performance in front of an audience. The cast had no clue about audience reaction.)
While it is Tom's memory that creates the chassis, Amanda's character provides both steering and motor for the vehicle. Pirkl gives us a flawless portrayal of a woman on the edge of desperation: eking out a bare subsistence, fixated on a suitor for Laura and fantasizing on a past life with a handsome and charming husband (whose portrait dominates the wall).
We see in Gotch's Tom the despair and frustration of a misbegotten life. We hear the resignation in his voice.
Montbertrand plays against character as Laura. (At least against characters Aisle Say has seen her play the past three years!) She does understatement exceedingly well; a slight turn of the head to signify insecurity, a glazed expression to express less than full mental acuity.
Jim (Erik Mathew) is the sole PTTP actor in the show, the others being full time REP Ensemble. He brings great energy to the role and, in his character, an Everyman type of sanity which plays against the repressions and hangups of the other three. He is a big man and exerts strong stage presence.
Pttp.udel.edu 302.831.2204 Thru 27 February
Aisle Say's quill pen is out of ink. The review of the SPECTACULAR and dare I say, 'Cat'aclysmic production of 'Cats' at New Candlelight must wait until next week. However, you should not wait to call 475.2313 for tickets.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
World Cafe Live will "Light Up The Queen"
Rob and Chris Buccini, Mayor Baker's best friends, have stated that the rehabilitation of The Queen Theatre at 5th & Market Street is their most important project ever. For two gentlemen who have radically transformed Wilmington's cityscape, who have multiple hotel properties in VA and MA and a presence in China, that's quite a quote.
In addition to what The Queen will offer to Delawareans, it's location is strategic as well – dead center in the middle of Market, linking the hub of the city to the Riverfront.
“Lighting up The Queen” is scheduled for April I. Having The Queen a satellite of Philly's popular World Cafe Live was crucial to the venture. Here's some background.
In 1998 music lover and lawyer Hal Real approached WXPN/88.5, U of Penn Radio Station. He was a huge fan of DJ David Dye's widely acclaimed World Cafe show, an eclectic blend of new music, live performances and interviews featuring local and national acts. The show was broadcast over 200 stations nationwide.
Real wanted to “radically change the landscape for contemporary artists and audiences”. His idea was to create World Cafe Live, a for profit venue for grownups that was the physical extension of the experience World Cafe listeners had in their homes.
Six years and $15 million later, World Cafe Live's concert and dining opened near the Penn campus. The radio station moved in the same building.
World Cafe Live employs 80 people, mounts about 550 shows annually showcasing 1200 artists. Meanwhile, on the non-profit radio side, XPN has grown exponentially, employing 25 people, embracing 25,000 dues paying members and 300,000 loyal regional listeners. It gains adherents by the very physical presence of the venue.
The two partners are under the same roof sharing a common passion for music but they operate independently. XPN licenses the World Cafe Live name to Real Entertainment for an annual fee.
This unique and innovative for-profit/nonprofit partnership has been so successful it has been dubbed the model for future relationships between public broadcasters and private enterprise.
I am not sure who sought out whom for The Queen, but having World Cafe Live installed here creates instant market credibility with both XPN's member base and the international music community. Thousands of Delawareans listen to XPN daily.
With the licensing money from the Hal Real, XPN has been able to extend their brand. They can offer higher quality, bigger bands and more bands. Musicians play at World Cafe Live and are interviewed on the station. That's convenience. Additionally, XPN is adding new affiliates; Dallas, LA and Milwaukee just this year.
For the consumer, how two separate entities with two disparate missions work together is irrelevant. The fact is they do...quite successfully. The commonality of purpose is born in their passion for music. Together they have created this tres cool 'clubhouse' for the music, the arts and the general community.
The Non-COMM Convention, a major event for the music industry, will be hosted by The Queen this year. Real had attended the conference for a decade and then acquired the rights. It is now wholly owned by WXPN. The timing was perfect for this year. Wilmington will be host to many important personages in the industry and some major music names; an energizing send off for the facility.
The Buccini brothers hope that The Queen will be the rock thrown in the pond; that The Queen will become the center of Wilmington's creative universe and the ripple effect will be felt by us all.
For the acts this year visit Queen.worldcafelive.com/
In addition to what The Queen will offer to Delawareans, it's location is strategic as well – dead center in the middle of Market, linking the hub of the city to the Riverfront.
“Lighting up The Queen” is scheduled for April I. Having The Queen a satellite of Philly's popular World Cafe Live was crucial to the venture. Here's some background.
In 1998 music lover and lawyer Hal Real approached WXPN/88.5, U of Penn Radio Station. He was a huge fan of DJ David Dye's widely acclaimed World Cafe show, an eclectic blend of new music, live performances and interviews featuring local and national acts. The show was broadcast over 200 stations nationwide.
Real wanted to “radically change the landscape for contemporary artists and audiences”. His idea was to create World Cafe Live, a for profit venue for grownups that was the physical extension of the experience World Cafe listeners had in their homes.
Six years and $15 million later, World Cafe Live's concert and dining opened near the Penn campus. The radio station moved in the same building.
World Cafe Live employs 80 people, mounts about 550 shows annually showcasing 1200 artists. Meanwhile, on the non-profit radio side, XPN has grown exponentially, employing 25 people, embracing 25,000 dues paying members and 300,000 loyal regional listeners. It gains adherents by the very physical presence of the venue.
The two partners are under the same roof sharing a common passion for music but they operate independently. XPN licenses the World Cafe Live name to Real Entertainment for an annual fee.
This unique and innovative for-profit/nonprofit partnership has been so successful it has been dubbed the model for future relationships between public broadcasters and private enterprise.
I am not sure who sought out whom for The Queen, but having World Cafe Live installed here creates instant market credibility with both XPN's member base and the international music community. Thousands of Delawareans listen to XPN daily.
With the licensing money from the Hal Real, XPN has been able to extend their brand. They can offer higher quality, bigger bands and more bands. Musicians play at World Cafe Live and are interviewed on the station. That's convenience. Additionally, XPN is adding new affiliates; Dallas, LA and Milwaukee just this year.
For the consumer, how two separate entities with two disparate missions work together is irrelevant. The fact is they do...quite successfully. The commonality of purpose is born in their passion for music. Together they have created this tres cool 'clubhouse' for the music, the arts and the general community.
The Non-COMM Convention, a major event for the music industry, will be hosted by The Queen this year. Real had attended the conference for a decade and then acquired the rights. It is now wholly owned by WXPN. The timing was perfect for this year. Wilmington will be host to many important personages in the industry and some major music names; an energizing send off for the facility.
The Buccini brothers hope that The Queen will be the rock thrown in the pond; that The Queen will become the center of Wilmington's creative universe and the ripple effect will be felt by us all.
For the acts this year visit Queen.worldcafelive.com/
Thursday, January 27, 2011
World Cafe Live will "Light Up The Queen"
Rob and Chris Buccini, Mayor Baker's best friends, have stated that the rehabilitation of The Queen Theatre at 5th & Market Street is their most important project ever. For two gentlemen who have radically transformed Wilmington's cityscape, who have multiple hotel properties in VA and MA and a presence in China, that's quite a quote.
In addition to what The Queen will offer to Delawareans, it's location is strategic as well – dead center in the middle of Market, linking the hub of the city to the Riverfront.
“Lighting up The Queen” is scheduled for April I. Having The Queen a satellite of Philly's popular World Cafe Live was crucial to the venture. Here's some background.
In 1998 music lover and lawyer Hal Real approached WXPN/88.5, U of Penn Radio Station. He was a huge fan of DJ David Dye's widely acclaimed World Cafe show, an eclectic blend of new music, live performances and interviews featuring local and national acts. The show was broadcast over 200 stations nationwide.
Real wanted to “radically change the landscape for contemporary artists and audiences”. His idea was to create World Cafe Live, a for profit venue for grownups that was the physical extension of the experience World Cafe listeners had in their homes.
Six years and $15 million later, World Cafe Live's concert and dining opened near the Penn campus. The radio station moved in the same building.
World Cafe Live employs 80 people, mounts about 550 shows annually showcasing 1200 artists. Meanwhile, on the non-profit radio side, XPN has grown exponentially, employing 25 people, embracing 25,000 dues paying members and 300,000 loyal regional listeners. It gains adherents by the very physical presence of the venue.
The two partners are under the same roof sharing a common passion for music but they operate independently. XPN licenses the World Cafe Live name to Real Entertainment for an annual fee.
This unique and innovative for-profit/nonprofit partnership has been so successful it has been dubbed the model for future relationships between public broadcasters and private enterprise.
I am not sure who sought out whom for The Queen, but having World Cafe Live installed here creates instant market credibility with both XPN's member base and the international music community. Thousands of Delawareans listen to XPN daily.
With the licensing money from the Hal Real, XPN has been able to extend their brand. They can offer higher quality, bigger bands and more bands. Musicians play at World Cafe Live and are interviewed on the station. That's convenience. Additionally, XPN is adding new affiliates; Dallas, LA and Milwaukee just this year.
For the consumer, how two separate entities with two disparate missions work together is irrelevant. The fact is they do...quite successfully. The commonality of purpose is born in their passion for music. Together they have created this tres cool 'clubhouse' for the music, the arts and the general community.
The Non-COMM Convention, a major event for the music industry, will be hosted by The Queen this year. Real had attended the conference for a decade and then acquired the rights. It is now wholly owned by WXPN. The timing was perfect for this year. Wilmington will be host to many important personages in the industry and some major music names; an energizing send off for the facility.
The Buccini brothers hope that The Queen will be the rock thrown in the pond; that The Queen will become the center of Wilmington's creative universe and the ripple effect will be felt by us all.
For the acts this year visit Queen.worldcafelive.com/
In addition to what The Queen will offer to Delawareans, it's location is strategic as well – dead center in the middle of Market, linking the hub of the city to the Riverfront.
“Lighting up The Queen” is scheduled for April I. Having The Queen a satellite of Philly's popular World Cafe Live was crucial to the venture. Here's some background.
In 1998 music lover and lawyer Hal Real approached WXPN/88.5, U of Penn Radio Station. He was a huge fan of DJ David Dye's widely acclaimed World Cafe show, an eclectic blend of new music, live performances and interviews featuring local and national acts. The show was broadcast over 200 stations nationwide.
Real wanted to “radically change the landscape for contemporary artists and audiences”. His idea was to create World Cafe Live, a for profit venue for grownups that was the physical extension of the experience World Cafe listeners had in their homes.
Six years and $15 million later, World Cafe Live's concert and dining opened near the Penn campus. The radio station moved in the same building.
World Cafe Live employs 80 people, mounts about 550 shows annually showcasing 1200 artists. Meanwhile, on the non-profit radio side, XPN has grown exponentially, employing 25 people, embracing 25,000 dues paying members and 300,000 loyal regional listeners. It gains adherents by the very physical presence of the venue.
The two partners are under the same roof sharing a common passion for music but they operate independently. XPN licenses the World Cafe Live name to Real Entertainment for an annual fee.
This unique and innovative for-profit/nonprofit partnership has been so successful it has been dubbed the model for future relationships between public broadcasters and private enterprise.
I am not sure who sought out whom for The Queen, but having World Cafe Live installed here creates instant market credibility with both XPN's member base and the international music community. Thousands of Delawareans listen to XPN daily.
With the licensing money from the Hal Real, XPN has been able to extend their brand. They can offer higher quality, bigger bands and more bands. Musicians play at World Cafe Live and are interviewed on the station. That's convenience. Additionally, XPN is adding new affiliates; Dallas, LA and Milwaukee just this year.
For the consumer, how two separate entities with two disparate missions work together is irrelevant. The fact is they do...quite successfully. The commonality of purpose is born in their passion for music. Together they have created this tres cool 'clubhouse' for the music, the arts and the general community.
The Non-COMM Convention, a major event for the music industry, will be hosted by The Queen this year. Real had attended the conference for a decade and then acquired the rights. It is now wholly owned by WXPN. The timing was perfect for this year. Wilmington will be host to many important personages in the industry and some major music names; an energizing send off for the facility.
The Buccini brothers hope that The Queen will be the rock thrown in the pond; that The Queen will become the center of Wilmington's creative universe and the ripple effect will be felt by us all.
For the acts this year visit Queen.worldcafelive.com/
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
BestofBroadwayProductions.com and other ruminations
In the early weeks of January, Aisle Say has little to do but thirst for the second part of the theatre season. His idle mind causes him to ruminate on a veritable devils' playground of national issues.
My editor may arch his eyebrow over this diversion below, but I suggest that arts columnists – who witness the ills of society play-acted on stage - have world perspectives. One might say that, but then again, one might be stretching the argument. In any case, I pontificate on two ingrained problems in America, certainly neither one original with me:
1. Flat Tax Income Tax: A statement from a national taxpayer advocate multiplied the IRS' own estimates of how much time individuals and businesses spend complying with the code. 6 million hours annually. That's the equivalent of 3 million workers toiling full time for a year. This adds to US productivity?
2.Congressional Term Limits: Of the 27 Amendments to the Constitution, seven took 1 year or less to become the law of the land. Why? The people demanded it. They were fed up. There is a grass roots movement afoot for Congressional Term Limits: 12 years max! Either two 6 year Senate terms and six 2 year House terms. The Congressman has no tenure and no pension. No self-voted pay raises. Current Congress health care plan is abolished. They pay like everyone else.(There's a concept!) Serving in Congress is an honor, not a career. One would consider this amendment would greatly reduce the inflammatory posturing and vitriol of the past 4 years.
Okay, Editors, now back to my day job....Thankfully! A preview of the upcoming months of local groups
1.New Candelight Theatre is staging two shows never before produced in the state. “Cats” runs from 28 Jan to 20 March. Producing Artistic Director Chris Alberts, who designs lights, should be lit up with this challenge. “The Full Monty”, opening 8 April, centers on four down and out steel workers from Buffalo NY who are desperate for cash. They turn to stripping to earn an income. The show is rated R for language and nudity. No one under 17 even allowed. That's a long way from the recent “Suessical”. NCTStage.org 302.475.2313
2.The Resident Ensemble Players (REP) of the U of D open 2011 with the Tennessee Williams' classic, “The Glass Menagerie”. Two of my favorite REP actors, Carine Montbertrand and Michael Gotch are lead characters. Both play 'distracted', 'obsessed', 'unhinged','psychotic' so exceedingly well. (The 'why' of it will be left for a future column.) Following in quick succession is “All The King's Men” on 17 Feb. This is the compelling drama of The Kingfish, Mississippi's Huey Long. Long was a power broker and supreme wheeler dealer in the LBJ matrix. Vietnam brought LBJ to his knees. With Long it was greed and hubris – the middle name of most politicians. His fall from grace was both extraordinary and tragic. I would imagine that Sandy Robbins chose this show to engage the audience with thoughts of current political shenanigans. Pttp.udel.edu 302.831.2204
3.Wilmington Drama League. Choreographer Jody Anderson returns for “Five Guys Named Moe” opening 21 Jan. The difficult to watch but absorbing “The Elephant Man' opens 18 March. The cast has not been publicized but for the lead character, here is an opportunity for a tour de force. WilmingtonDramaLeague.org 302.764.1172
4.Delaware Theatre Company opens with “Lucy” on 19 Jan. Vivian, a brilliant scientist, is called to take care of her estranged daughter, 13 year old Lucy. The child is autistic. One would think mother/daughter dynamics are played out and perhaps some answers and insights about this dreadful and challenging condition. DelawareTheatre.org 302.594.1100
5.Best of Broadway Productions. Join my newly revamped singing Ensemble at Bella Vita at The Cavalier's Country Club. Four outrageously talented singers and Broadway tunes. A grand and sumptuous buffet from former 3 Bakers chef John Obykhan. 17 Feb at 11:30am and 18 Feb . at 8pm. BellaVitaccc.net 302.731.5600
My editor may arch his eyebrow over this diversion below, but I suggest that arts columnists – who witness the ills of society play-acted on stage - have world perspectives. One might say that, but then again, one might be stretching the argument. In any case, I pontificate on two ingrained problems in America, certainly neither one original with me:
1. Flat Tax Income Tax: A statement from a national taxpayer advocate multiplied the IRS' own estimates of how much time individuals and businesses spend complying with the code. 6 million hours annually. That's the equivalent of 3 million workers toiling full time for a year. This adds to US productivity?
2.Congressional Term Limits: Of the 27 Amendments to the Constitution, seven took 1 year or less to become the law of the land. Why? The people demanded it. They were fed up. There is a grass roots movement afoot for Congressional Term Limits: 12 years max! Either two 6 year Senate terms and six 2 year House terms. The Congressman has no tenure and no pension. No self-voted pay raises. Current Congress health care plan is abolished. They pay like everyone else.(There's a concept!) Serving in Congress is an honor, not a career. One would consider this amendment would greatly reduce the inflammatory posturing and vitriol of the past 4 years.
Okay, Editors, now back to my day job....Thankfully! A preview of the upcoming months of local groups
1.New Candelight Theatre is staging two shows never before produced in the state. “Cats” runs from 28 Jan to 20 March. Producing Artistic Director Chris Alberts, who designs lights, should be lit up with this challenge. “The Full Monty”, opening 8 April, centers on four down and out steel workers from Buffalo NY who are desperate for cash. They turn to stripping to earn an income. The show is rated R for language and nudity. No one under 17 even allowed. That's a long way from the recent “Suessical”. NCTStage.org 302.475.2313
2.The Resident Ensemble Players (REP) of the U of D open 2011 with the Tennessee Williams' classic, “The Glass Menagerie”. Two of my favorite REP actors, Carine Montbertrand and Michael Gotch are lead characters. Both play 'distracted', 'obsessed', 'unhinged','psychotic' so exceedingly well. (The 'why' of it will be left for a future column.) Following in quick succession is “All The King's Men” on 17 Feb. This is the compelling drama of The Kingfish, Mississippi's Huey Long. Long was a power broker and supreme wheeler dealer in the LBJ matrix. Vietnam brought LBJ to his knees. With Long it was greed and hubris – the middle name of most politicians. His fall from grace was both extraordinary and tragic. I would imagine that Sandy Robbins chose this show to engage the audience with thoughts of current political shenanigans. Pttp.udel.edu 302.831.2204
3.Wilmington Drama League. Choreographer Jody Anderson returns for “Five Guys Named Moe” opening 21 Jan. The difficult to watch but absorbing “The Elephant Man' opens 18 March. The cast has not been publicized but for the lead character, here is an opportunity for a tour de force. WilmingtonDramaLeague.org 302.764.1172
4.Delaware Theatre Company opens with “Lucy” on 19 Jan. Vivian, a brilliant scientist, is called to take care of her estranged daughter, 13 year old Lucy. The child is autistic. One would think mother/daughter dynamics are played out and perhaps some answers and insights about this dreadful and challenging condition. DelawareTheatre.org 302.594.1100
5.Best of Broadway Productions. Join my newly revamped singing Ensemble at Bella Vita at The Cavalier's Country Club. Four outrageously talented singers and Broadway tunes. A grand and sumptuous buffet from former 3 Bakers chef John Obykhan. 17 Feb at 11:30am and 18 Feb . at 8pm. BellaVitaccc.net 302.731.5600
Friday, January 7, 2011
DE Theatre Co paddling upstream
There are few First Staters who have on their theatrical resume being part of the opening night audience of Delaware Theatre Company 32 years ago. Aisle Say was there.
The venue was a converted firehouse. The visionary producer/director was Cleveland Morris. Within a short period Morris had convinced various influential arts advocates to create Wilmington's first professional theatre at the Riverfront, a hodgepodge of scarred and abandoned buildings left over from WWII ship building days.
Morris' brand of 'pioneering' was of the Major John Wesley Powell mold. In 1869 Powell , a one-armed Civil War veteran embarked with ten men and four wooden boats through the unchartered depths of The Grand Canyon. Their 1000 mile trip would take 3 months and only 5 men survived. The journey changed the face of the West. There are analogies to Cleveland Morris' accomplishments.
While not a season subscriber, I witnessed many of the productions in the ensuing decades. The opportunities with The Community News and Aisle Say has required I chat about most of their offerings in the last three years.
Presently they are through two of the five productions for this season.
I have come to the conclusion: Why? Why do they exist in their present form and what are they accomplishing.
The stated mission is to provide theatre of the highest quality in Delaware and enrich the vitality of the area through artistic programming, education and community service. All good and noble. With all but the first they meet these standards.
After the messy public firing of Artistic Director Anne Marie Cammarado, the managing staff at the theatre had to reconfigure this season. They brought back 'Sylvia' by A.R.Gurney. It was promoted as an 'audience favorite'. More likely it fit the financial pre-conditions listed below. On the opening night I was in attendance and counted the audience at 50%. Seats were less than half at 'Around the World in 80 Days' two months later.
I may be wrong, but I can't believe that their next show, 'Lucy', that no one has heard of is going to have queues reaching to Harry's Riverfront. The subject matter involves a mother who now must take care of her estranged autistic daughter.
Certainly not every production must be reminiscent of “I Love Lucy”, but most people wish to simply be entertained, case closed. Aisle Say does not believe our market is that sizable to embrace such a subject with respectable attendance numbers.
Next up comes Noel Coward's 'Blithe Spirit', not at his wittiest. (See 'Private Lives' for that). DTC promotion material states that 'Blithe Spirit' is British humor at its wittiest. (See Oscar Wilde for that).
The overriding issue I imagine is money. A few times during his adventure Major Powell was caught in a 'whirlpool'; a depression of the water surging around the boat keeping it swirling and swirling around in a endless circle. The only way out is to get pulled out by a rescuer on land. DTC does not have a Tatiana Copeland at the ready to throw a lifeline.
The fiscal constraints mean their choices must follow these requisites: small cast, bargain basement royalties, unit set, lean costuming and no high tech production values.
I wish no one to lose their job. In fact, DTC's various outreach programs for kids, including “Totally Awesome Kids” is just that, totally awesome and essential. Leader Charlie Conway has created a rich legacy in the community.
Here is Aisle Say's suggestion for 2011. Reach out to Sandy Robbins, Producing Artistic Director of the U of D REP Ensemble. This production company is far and away the greatest professional theatre in the state. (If any readers of my reviews on the REP know, I gush over them like Danny over Sandy in “Grease'.) They are heavily subsidized by the university. Their ticket prices are $10.00 less than DTC and the productions are many times better...in every theatrical aspect.
I saw Robbins at 'Sylvia'. In fact, the REP had an ad in the program. Begin conversations to have The REP aid in various artistic decisions; even interning. The venue could even become a UD satellite. All jobs could be saved and everyone in the community benefits. I will send this column to Robbins and see what he thinks. DTC has done great stuff. In this economy, Aisle Say does not see them being rescued from their dizzying whirlpool on their own.
The venue was a converted firehouse. The visionary producer/director was Cleveland Morris. Within a short period Morris had convinced various influential arts advocates to create Wilmington's first professional theatre at the Riverfront, a hodgepodge of scarred and abandoned buildings left over from WWII ship building days.
Morris' brand of 'pioneering' was of the Major John Wesley Powell mold. In 1869 Powell , a one-armed Civil War veteran embarked with ten men and four wooden boats through the unchartered depths of The Grand Canyon. Their 1000 mile trip would take 3 months and only 5 men survived. The journey changed the face of the West. There are analogies to Cleveland Morris' accomplishments.
While not a season subscriber, I witnessed many of the productions in the ensuing decades. The opportunities with The Community News and Aisle Say has required I chat about most of their offerings in the last three years.
Presently they are through two of the five productions for this season.
I have come to the conclusion: Why? Why do they exist in their present form and what are they accomplishing.
The stated mission is to provide theatre of the highest quality in Delaware and enrich the vitality of the area through artistic programming, education and community service. All good and noble. With all but the first they meet these standards.
After the messy public firing of Artistic Director Anne Marie Cammarado, the managing staff at the theatre had to reconfigure this season. They brought back 'Sylvia' by A.R.Gurney. It was promoted as an 'audience favorite'. More likely it fit the financial pre-conditions listed below. On the opening night I was in attendance and counted the audience at 50%. Seats were less than half at 'Around the World in 80 Days' two months later.
I may be wrong, but I can't believe that their next show, 'Lucy', that no one has heard of is going to have queues reaching to Harry's Riverfront. The subject matter involves a mother who now must take care of her estranged autistic daughter.
Certainly not every production must be reminiscent of “I Love Lucy”, but most people wish to simply be entertained, case closed. Aisle Say does not believe our market is that sizable to embrace such a subject with respectable attendance numbers.
Next up comes Noel Coward's 'Blithe Spirit', not at his wittiest. (See 'Private Lives' for that). DTC promotion material states that 'Blithe Spirit' is British humor at its wittiest. (See Oscar Wilde for that).
The overriding issue I imagine is money. A few times during his adventure Major Powell was caught in a 'whirlpool'; a depression of the water surging around the boat keeping it swirling and swirling around in a endless circle. The only way out is to get pulled out by a rescuer on land. DTC does not have a Tatiana Copeland at the ready to throw a lifeline.
The fiscal constraints mean their choices must follow these requisites: small cast, bargain basement royalties, unit set, lean costuming and no high tech production values.
I wish no one to lose their job. In fact, DTC's various outreach programs for kids, including “Totally Awesome Kids” is just that, totally awesome and essential. Leader Charlie Conway has created a rich legacy in the community.
Here is Aisle Say's suggestion for 2011. Reach out to Sandy Robbins, Producing Artistic Director of the U of D REP Ensemble. This production company is far and away the greatest professional theatre in the state. (If any readers of my reviews on the REP know, I gush over them like Danny over Sandy in “Grease'.) They are heavily subsidized by the university. Their ticket prices are $10.00 less than DTC and the productions are many times better...in every theatrical aspect.
I saw Robbins at 'Sylvia'. In fact, the REP had an ad in the program. Begin conversations to have The REP aid in various artistic decisions; even interning. The venue could even become a UD satellite. All jobs could be saved and everyone in the community benefits. I will send this column to Robbins and see what he thinks. DTC has done great stuff. In this economy, Aisle Say does not see them being rescued from their dizzying whirlpool on their own.
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