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!”
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
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
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