"Hallelujah, Noel..."

Greetings Divas!
Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas celebration. I know it's not "fashionable" for a good liberal such as myself to bestow Christmas wishes on anyone, but to heck with it! It's what I celebrate, and I'm gonna wish you a happy one whether you want it or not! I also have to tell, there is absolutely NOTHING in this world so wonderful as seeing Christmas morning through the eyes of a child. Santa was very generous to the Wolverine this year (not TOO generous, as we're trying to avoid making this time of year completely about "gimmie gimmie") and he has been wide eyed and over the moon all day. Whatever troubles I've been ruminating on have evaporated under the warmth of seeing my son so incredibly joyful. It is indeed a blessing from God.

If you have any glad tidings or thoughts on the new year you'd like to share, feel free. Meantime, here's our topic-

What are you MOST looking forward to in the new year?

Write it down...and Merry Christmas to all, and to all ...a good night!

"They can't stop me..."

So, granted, having an (almost) three year old DOESN'T leave a hell of a lot of time for going to the movies, but we did get out to see a few this year. Of those, BOURNE ULTIMATUM was tops with me. Lots of great action, and what my Mom lovingly refers to as "spy business". Great way to spend a stress free afternoon, and the only trilogy completion of the summer that was worth watching!

(btw- I'll give honorable mention to SUPERBAD, a film that made me laugh at stuff I'm STILL ashamed of laughing at!)

So, what do you think? Those of you that actually get out of the house once in awhile...what was the best film you saw this past 12 months?

Hit it and quit!!!!

"...but all I heard was a drone..."

Ok...so it's probably not TOO hard to guess what my vote for album / song of the year is (DUH!)...and a fine vote it is, despite the Grammy snubs. (Amy Winehouse and Herbie freakin Hancock??? WTF) With MAGIC the Boss reaffirms that old classic rockers needn't rest on their past glories and shows that a man nearing 60 can indeed still have his finger on the artistic pulse of a nation...but that's just me. What say you? What's the best music you heard in 2007? (and please confine it to music FROM said year, not some old 45's you dusted off and rediscovered.)

So...hit me with your best end of the year shots, people. And let's have a little more chatter out there! Not allot of postings lately...bring the meat, people!!!!

"...spread your wings to the sky..."

Sigh...those famous people DO always die in threes, don't they?


First Sean Taylor of the Washington Redskins (Tragic home invasion shooting- also looks like there's a break in that case...nice to see the wheels of justice move rapidly every once and awhile...)


Next, Kevin DuBrow- lead screamer of the 80's metal band QUIET RIOT (nobody's talking- sounds like maybe he fell off a wagon or two) and now THIS bombshell!



CLEARWATER, Fla. - Evel Knievel, the red-white-and-blue-spangled motorcycle daredevil whose jumps over crazy obstacles including Greyhound buses, live sharks and Idaho's Snake River Canyon made him an international icon in the 1970s, died Friday. He was 69.

Bummer of a week. DuBrow and Knievel really hit me hard! As a kid growing up in the 70's I, like most kids my age, idolized this guy! I had the action figures (with the cool motorcycle you could rev up and jump over stuff with!) and I spent many a Saturday afternoon constructing ramps to jump over garbage cans with my bike, or bails of hay with my motor cycle. (Somehow, I never so much as even got a skinned knee doing this- talk about a charmed life!)
Then, as a teenager in the 80's I adored QUIET RIOT! A lot of people look at these guys as sort of joke worthy now, but they really kicked open a lot of doors for the hard rock community back in the day. They were the first metal band EVER to have a #1 album, and amongst their early band members was one Randy Rhodes, perhaps one of the finest rock guitarists ever to grace the stage (who died a very tragic death WAY the hell too young!). These guys also were hitting it big around my Junior year of High School, so obviously this was some very seminal music for me.

It truly is a bitch to get older and watch the people you admired in your youth pass away. But such is the circle of life I suppose (cue the ELTON JOHN music and the barf bags!) Perhaps it's also the paternal thing, as the wife is about to give birth in a few weeks... nothing to make you stare your mortality right in the eyes like having a child. Not that that's necessarily a bad thing, mind you...

Oh well- Rest in peace Mr Knievel... tell Kevin and Sean we miss 'em already.



* And just to keep the Q and A going (albeit in a slightly morbid direction)...what loss in the entertainment world has hit you the hardest this year?

"I've got another confession to make..."

(pictured, one of my fave shows of the year ANTON IN SHOW BUSINESS at AGL)

OK gang- so since another year is almost in the books, we're gonna do a few BEST OF lists!

Let's get the ball rolling in grand fashion- BEST PLAY YOU SAW IN 2007! It can be local, professional, Broadway, what have you....what was the best piece of Theatre you witnessed in the past 12 months? **NOTE- things you were in / directed/ designed for/ etc DON'T COUNT! And another thing.. this ain't just for locals. I wanna hear from you folks out in the hinterlands as well...

HIT ME WITH YOUR BEST SHOTS!!!! And just for fun, let's try to start getting these lyrics again! You people are gettin lazy on me...

"I see no sense in this crying and grieving"

Hey Gang!

Follow this link...

http://www.larryneuzelphotography.com/

and it'll carry you to shots of our recent production of THOREAU.

Unfortunatley, the set wasn't 100% the night Larry showed, but they still look pretty good, if I do say so myself!

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

In for my usual holiday tradition, feel free to post anything you personally feel thankful for this year.

Peace,

X

"The Sun is just a morning star"

Greetings, one and all.

BCTC , in cooperation with AGL, presents Jerome Lawrence and Robert E Lee's THE NIGHT THOREAU SPENT IN JAIL, Nov 15th - 17th at the DAC. Showtimes are at 8pm each night.

Tickets are $5 for students , $10 for GA. For more info, call the DAC box office.

Love to see you all out there. It's a great little show we have in store for you.

Now, if you'll excuse me , I have 1000 things left to do and a sick toddler...


-x

" 84-68!!!!"

Soooo.....Tubby may have had his issues as the coach of the UK b-ball team, but to my recollection, he never got his ASS handed to him by the likes of GARDNER WEBB!!!!!!!!

Somewhere, in Minnesota, a man named Orlando is probably still enjoying a very well deserved fit of laughter!

"Look for...the union label..."

Well...looks like my favorite show WON'T be returning in February after all! In case you've been under a rock, there's a writers strike. This, I'm afraid, will be the result:

"Look for lots more unscripted shows, which were not a major commercial force (if they existed at all) during the last WGA strike nearly 20 years ago. “The Real World” didn’t arrive on MTV until 1992. The first three major-network reality shows – “Survivor,” “Big Brother” and the ABC version of “Making the Band” – didn’t arrive until eight years later.
Variety reports that CBS is contemplating the first-ever spring edition of “Big Brother” – possibly a celebrity edition – to launch in March should the strike prove lengthy. The highly rated “Brother” is a particularly potent network weapon as it affordably provides CBS three hours of new primetime programming weekly. "

GREAT! Just what the world needs...ANOTHER edition of BIG BROTHER! (As if the one in Washington wasn't enough!) My question is this- Is this going to be akin to the Baseball strike of a few years ago? Is it going to drive TV watchers away in droves? Is this finally going to be the death knell of scripted TV? I hope not, but when you look at the less than stellar ratings most of these shows get anyway, then add in a potentially lengthy strike? I'm afraid many of the consumers may say "No thanks!" when these shows return. There is actually discussion I've read that perhaps one of the major networks is considering going to , and staying WITH, an "all reality format". There are also TONS of viewers who'd rather watch their shows (particularly those with a continuous story arch) on DVD or the web. I just bought Season 3 of VERONICA MARS (a DAMN fine show, btw) and I never watched a single episode on TV.

Perhaps in this day and age of so much new media and new ways of distribution, the old TV model is broken. (I've thought for years that the Nielsen ratings were an absolute joke! How many times have we seen a show die an premature death, only to have the network bombarded with MILLIONS of protests from angry fans, ALL of whom must be watching in some fashion?)I've also wondered for years why studios don't do more direct to dvd releases with shows (or shows that the networks foolishly cancel that OBVIOUSLY still have a big market, i.e. the aforementioned VERONICA, or Buffy, Alias, etc...) Perhaps a good by-product of this strike is that it might usher in a different model for creating and distributing these products. Who knows...all I know is that Howie Mandel is most likely about to get an unexpected contract extension from NBC!

I won't get into the reasons for this strike, and whether or not it's warranted (probably only one person who comes to this watering hole with a truly learned opinion on that subject), and I was raised to respect the work that Unions do in this country. I just can't help but wondering, though, if perhaps some of these folks might not be shooting themselves, and the fans of their work, in the foot .

Thoughts?

.

"Only love...can bring the rain..."

at left, SPIKE illustrates my feelings for the majority of the 08 presidential candidates.

Well, we here in Central KY are FINALLY getting some rain (Thank the Lord!) and the the great outdoors is finally dropping to a respectable, fall like temperature. SO, it's beginning to look alot like...Halloween??? (Doesn't have the same ring, does it?) And you KNOW what fall temperatures bring to mind...PRESIDENTIAL DEBATES!!!!

So as we head into what is sure to be an intriguing political year, who do you feel has done the best job of getting their message out to the American people (via the debates or other TV appearances?) AND- has your opinion of a candidate changed as a result of said TV appearances?)

Let it roll, people!

"...the undiscovered country..."

HEY ALL!

Just a quick note to remind you all to get out and see AGL's HAMLET at the DAC, running through Nov. 11th. There is a free show tonight (Thursday the 18th- you need to call the DAC box office for reservations) and a PAY WHAT YOU CAN on Sunday. So a couple of good opportunities to see it for next to nothing ( or nothing at all). Lots of board posters involved (Rick, Chuck, Adam, Laurie, etc)

Feel free to wish Ric and the gang a hearty BREAK A LEG, or leave us a stellar, glowing review on the boards...

-X

"I wasn't born for love..."

JUST FOR FUN on a Monday morning...

For those of you who are Ituned- inclined...shuffle your IPOD / I tunes account and tell me the first ten songs that come up!

Here's Mine:

1) Born to Raise Hell- Cheap Trick (That's the lyric above, btw)
2) Heavy- Train
3) Can't Stop Lovin' you- Van Halen (Hagar)
4) Oye Mamacita- Los Lonely Boys
5) The Best of Times- STYX
6) I'll Wait- Van Halen (Roth)
7) What's on your mind?- Ace Frehley
8) Homecoming- Robert Randolph and the Family Band
9) Missing You - Rod Stewart (There's that ROD album again Mikey!)
10) Thank You- John Mellancamp

There you have it! What are YOU listening to???
PS- Fletch- you can list the first ten songs that come up on your satellite radio station!

More serious conversation at later in the week....

"I'm gonna watch you shine..."

So...the jury is in, and this little boy is about to have... (drum roll please!)...

A BABY SISTER!!!!

Yep, the wife and I went to get the ultrasound today, and there she was- big as life. My daughter! It's amazing what these things can do. I actually have a picture of her little face! As per usual, it brought a tear to my eye. However that was short lived. as the Wolverine was in the room with us and demanded his usual amount of attention. It's gonna be an interesting ride, but one I wouldn't trade for all the tea pots in China.
The coolest thing happened as we were leaving the Doctor's office. The boy looked up at me and said "You're gonna have to take care of your baby sister!" (which for some reason he pronounces "SES-stir, as though he were an extra in an episode of THE HIGH CHAPARRAL) It just made me hyper aware of how grown up he's getting, and more to the point, how fast life really comes at you. Before I know it, he'll be off to college and I'll be an old bastard. But, such is the cycle of life.
Even though we waited, and even though it makes for a very sleep deprived existence, and even though I may never have the money to travel anywhere above the Mason Dixon line till I'm old and gray (er), I'm so thrilled that this beautiful boy is a part of my life... and I can't wait for you all to meet my daughter...heck, I can't wait to meet her myself!

Feel free to shower me with all due congratulations...

My students ROCK!!!

L to R - Jeremy Brown, Sharonda Pearsall and Zack Hightower in BCTC's BLESSED ASSURANCE

Ok, so I'm really proud of all these students. Sharonda is up at NKU continuing her Theatre studies (at a damn fine program, I might add). And Jeremy Brown and Zack Hightower both received great kudos and special mention in the local media this week for shows they are involved in. Jeremy for AGL's production of MA RAINEY'S BLACK BOTTOM

(http://www.kentucky.com/182/story/178879.html) and Zack in Studio Playa's SHAKESPEARE IN HOLLYWOOD

(http://www.kentuckyconnect.com/126/story/182655.html)

Truthfully, it really makes me feel good about what I do when I read things like this. (It also plays into the greater mission of my program to get them out working in the community, not just in the school productions) They are two very talented young men, and I got lots more like 'em (men and women) in my program who I'm equally proud of. If you wanna see evidence of this, come check out THE NIGHT THOREAU SPENT IN JAIL at the DAC in November!

So if you're in the area, go see both of these shows and enjoy some great, new talent onstage. And if you go see MA RAINEY you just might catch a glimpse of an overweight, cigar chomping, crusty ole' white dude who still has some juice left his own self!

Sad news...

Italian Tenor Pavarotti Dies at Age 71 By ALESSANDRA RIZZO Associated Press Writer

Luciano Pavarotti, whose vibrant high C's and ebullient showmanship made him the most beloved and celebrated tenor since Caruso and one of the few opera singers to win crossover fame as a popular superstar, died Thursday. He was 71.
His manager, Terri Robson, told the AP in an e-mailed statement that Pavarotti died at his home in Modena, Italy, at 5 a.m. local time. Pavarotti had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer last year and underwent further treatment in August.
"The Maestro fought a long, tough battle against the pancreatic cancer which eventually took his life. In fitting with the approach that characterised his life and work, he remained positive until finally succumbing to the last stages of his illness," the statement said.
Speaking from inside Pavarotti's home, which was guarded by police, Pavarotti's assistant Edwin Tinoco told Sky TG 24 television that Pavarotti's final days had been calm and spent at home.
For serious fans, the unforced beauty and thrilling urgency of Pavarotti's voice made him the ideal interpreter of the Italian lyric repertory, especially in the 1960s and '70s when he first achieved stardom. For millions more, his charismatic performances of standards like "Nessun Dorma" from Puccini's "Turandot" came to represent what opera is all about.
In fact, "Nessun Dorma" was Pavarotti's last performance, sung at at the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics in Turin, Italy, in February 2006. His last full-scale concert was at Taipei in December 2005, and his farewell to opera was in Puccini's "Tosca" at New York's Metropolitan in March 2004.
It was the second monumental loss in the opera world in recent months. American soprano Beverly Sills, whose widespread popularity mirrored Pavarotti's, died July 2 at her home in New York. She was 78 and suffered from cancer.
Instantly recognizable from his charcoal black beard and tuxedo-busting girth, Pavarotti radiated an intangible magic that helped him win hearts in a way Placido Domingo and Jose Carreras - his partners in the "Three Tenors" concerts - never quite could.
"I always admired the God-given glory of his voice - that unmistakable special timbre from the bottom up to the very top of the tenor range," Domingo said in a statement from Los Angeles.
"I also loved his wonderful sense of humor and on several occasions of our concerts with Jose Carreras - the so-called Three Tenors concerts - we had trouble remembering that we were giving a concert before a paying audience, because we had so much fun between ourselves," he said.
Pavarotti, who seemed equally at ease singing with soprano Joan Sutherland as with the Spice Girls, scoffed at accusations that he was sacrificing his art in favor of commercialism.
"The word commercial is exactly what we want," he said, after appearing in the widely publicized "Three Tenors" concerts. "We've reached 1.5 billion people with opera. If you want to use the word commercial, or something more derogatory, we don't care. Use whatever you want."

Good for you , Luciano. The world will indeed miss you. On the OTHER hand...

...Rock and roll singers alive and kicking ass!

There are still quite a few great rock and roll singers who, at an advanced (for a rock star) age, can still bring it! Exhibit A- Paul Stanley, from a recent performance at the Rock and ROll fantasy camp (the place I'd go in a NY minute, if I had 9 grand lying around) singing the living hell outta the old IDES OF MARCH one hit wonder VEHICLE:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=MYu1L8KjeiE

and how about RONNIE JAMES DIO lead singer of HEAVEN AND HELL (or as I like to call 'em BLACK SABBATH) from a recent solo NY gig:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hO4u54FmoC0
This man is SIXTY if he's a day folks! And Nat's hubby Ryan said the funniest thing I've heard in awhile the other day. He said watching Dio throw the "Heavy Metal Horns" was kind of like watching John Hancock sign his name! Good stuff, Ryan!

And then there's MY personal fave, 58 year old...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Gd6EhRRNJc
BROOOOOOCCCEEEE!!!!!!!!!! That song smokes.Talk about some "stuff left in the basement"! Pure, guitar driven rock and roll!

While I wound never equate these fellows with the sheer brilliance that was Pavarotti, and it's a totally different genre of music, it's kind of comforting to remind oneself that there's still plenty of greatness out there to be had...and that our old friends are still kicking it!

"I've seen a million faces, and I've rocked them all..."

above: me...directing!

Greetings everyone.

So here's a question for you. The first in a series of many queries I'll have in regards to the program I'm building.

My recent auditions for THOREAU turned out a bumper crop of students. So many, so, that it was difficult to get them read in the time constraints/ audition environment. For a number of years, I have done a straight "cold reading" auditions with no prepared piece/callback the way alot of folks do it. My primary reasoning is that I didn't want to scare off any newcomers who might hesitate to show up if they had to prepare something (Believe me, I've found many a hidden gem at an audition where someone just decided to come just for the experience). But lately, as my program really starts to take shape (quite sooner than I expected!) I am considering more and more going to the model of "Prepared piece-callbacks" as opposed to straight cold reading.

Here's what I need. FEEDBACK. Be it from an actor's p.o.v. ("I prefer this type over that type, etc...") a Director's p.o.v. ("This is what works best for me") or just an outsider p.o.v. ("I would / wouldn't show up for this type of audition").

Give me what you got people. Too many lurkers lately, not enough participation. BRING THE MEAT, people!!!!

"Working your fingers right down to the bone..."

School's back in session! Classes at the local colleges start back this week, and the HS folks are already a week in. Where the hell did the summer go???? Oh well, at least it's still in the 90's, so we can imagine it's still those hazy, lazy da...what the heck am I talking about? There were no LAZY days this summer! Haven't been for years. Sometimes I'm downright relieved when the bell starts to ring in the fall. And I've got a busy one lined up. A show at AGL (Yay! I get to do some actin'!), a show at school, AND directing CATFISH MOON for STUDIO PLAYAH's.
So lot's happening.
There is something kind of cool about this time of year (well, except the WEATHER!) . I always get a sense of that "new school year" feeling that was so pervasive back in the day. That sense of excitement mixed with utter dread. Oy! And we thought things were SOOOO difficult and challenging and that life was so complex, didn't we?Bah humbug! If only we knew what was to come....
So everyone have a good week and enjoy the beginning of a "new year" as it were. And while you're at it, drop me a post about this topic: which "start of a new school year" stands out in your memory the most and why?

Let er' rip...I'll try to post more often, but if I'm a bit lax, it don't mean I don't love all of ya's! I'm just my usual worker bee self...and then some!

"The dogs on Main street howl, cause they understand..."

Yikes! Back to school has begun, and is it ever chaotic. Meetings, lesson plans, sylabi, more meetings. planning sessions, auditions, rehearsals...did I mention MEETINGS????
It's times like these that the Boss's lyric (from above) really hits home to me. Things ARE nutty right now. Not just for me, but the wife too. She's planing a HS reunion (to take place in West Tennessee, no less. These things are no fun, especially long distance) and ...oh by the way... she's pregnant too! There's also a ton of other crapola that I won;t bore you with in blog-land. Suffice it to say that if those dogs DO get it, I feel for 'em!

Anyhoo- enough about me. Here's a nice, non-taxing question for your posting pleasure. What are you top five favorite song lyrics of ALL TIME????

Easy one, no? Lemmee hear ya...

"Sing for your very right to live..."

CATCHING UP!!!
I've been away from the blog a bit lately, and I feel like I'm ignoring the old girl, so here's a big grab-bag of stuff!

1- First and foremost CONGRATS TO THE TUTTLES! Mike and Erin finally had their baby boy, Alexander Lee (...and yes, I'm bettin they'll call him XANDER! BUFFY-VERSE RULES! )

No pics, and I forgot the poundage, but I'll post some when I get 'em! Congrats Mama Erin and Papa Mike! ...and lemme know how this "two kids" thing works out :)

2- Yes, the Satanic lure of the dreaded "myspace" had finally pulled me in! You can find my page at http://www.myspace.com/woundedeagle8

I know, I know...I swore I'd never sell my soul to Rupert Murdoch this way, but dammit it's ...just...too...FUN! Not only have I reconnected with old friend, AND already made a few pertinant connections, BUT I get to jam on tons of great music from the old Nashville/Murfreesboro Music scene. This scene during the late 80's / early 90's produced some stellar bands / artists. Some of the pages are more for nostalgia's sake, like my buddies in

WORD UPRISING

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=212816168

OR my alltime favorite boro band (and these guys SHOULDA been contenders, if Atlantic records had any balls!) btw- the lyric is from their song PLAY ON!

FIFTEEN STRINGS

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=165903501

There are tons of other cool artists you can link to through my page. Check it out, if you wanna hear some good, unsigned rock and roll.

3. This weekend is your last chance to catch WORKING the musical at Studio Playa's here in Lex-vegas. If you've already come, thankx a billion! Our crowds have suffered a little this summer, but I'm told most have ('Cept them Equus Run folks.."FIRSTEST WITH THE MOSTEST" is the way Gen Stonewall Jackson put it, I do believe!) and the crowds we have had have been wonderful! So a big KUDOS to those who have come, and a big "Ya'll come" to those what haven't! (Why am I suddenly writing like a tour guide at DOLLYWOOD???)

Thus brings us to our question- Is a town like Lexington BIG ENOUGH to support all the theatre offerings we had this summer? If you don't live here, chime in regarding your own hamlet and let us know what the summer theatre scene is like there. From my count here in sexington, we had no less than 9 productions within the city limits this summer. (someone correct my math if I'm wrong). ALSO- if you were involved in a show this summer, how'd it go? What was the experience like? I'll be posting some of my thoughts on WORKING right along with you!

Well....?

"People say I'm no good, crazy as a loon..."

So I'm watching the CNN/ You tube debates last night (you know, where the Dems were lined up and answered questions sent by you-tubers, whilst Anderson Cooper moderated) and damned if halfway through I don;t see a question from THESE bozos! "Jackie Broyle" and "Dunlap" (l to r) who asked basically was all the talk about Al Gore getting in the race "hurtin their feelings?" I damn near soiled myself, cause you see "Jackie" and "Dunlap" are actually Travis and Jonathon, two very old friends of mine from HS and undergrad. The whole auditorium cracked up, except Joe Biden, who I THINK thought they were serious! AND they namechecked my old hood "Murfreesboro, TN"! Glad to see some old homies making the national scene...it does my heart proud, Both these gentlemen are actually grade A actors, and I've been involved in many a show with them. Actually, in an ironic twist, they BOTH played the role of Cole in KEELY AND DU, with a Davis rother in the directing chair (Travis for me at MTSU, and Jonathon for my bro Jerry in Cape Cod). Up until a few weeks ago, I didn't even know these fools knew each other, much less had an
act". Check out their website for some really funny shite! (Some of you will especially love the "Ray Stevens/Rick Rubin mockumentary!) http://www.travisandjonathan.com/

So good on ya, Travis and Jonathon...you've made our little hamlet in the boro proud! And if you guys wind up with an HBO show in a few years I WANT A PART!!!!!!!!!

Come see WORKING!!!!

Aren't these people BEAUTIFUL??? Don't you want to pay a reasonable amount of money and see them, and others like them , PERFORM FOR YOU????

THEN DO SO! The show runs through August 5th. Call the Lexarts box office for ticket info, or hollar at me. Hope to see you at the theatre!

Those of you who HAVE seen the show, feel free to take up valuable bandwidth showering the cast (and the director) with praise!

"See that building..."

Based on Studs Terkel's best-selling book, this musical by Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Godspell) takes the everyday life of numerous American workers and creates an anthem to those who keep the country going. Tim X. Davis directs this unique collaboration between the Bluegrass Community and Technical college and Studio Players.
Working, the Muscial is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).

Production Dates

July 12-15, 20-22, 27-29 and August 3-5, 2007 -->

Opening, Friday, and Saturday night performances begin at 8:00 pm.
Sunday matinee performances begin at 2:30 pm.

Ticket Prices
-->
All performances
$16.00
Students
$10.00--

For reservations please call (859) 225-0370


YA'LL COME!!!!!!

"...one needs a huggin' Lord one's on the way..."

A recent exerpt from the wife's blog:

Well our little family has a major announcement. We have been keeping the lid on for the most part for awhile, but no more. We are pregnant, expecting our second child in February 2008. That is a whopper. We are excited to share the news, although i must confess i enjoyed keeping it under wraps. A pregnancy can get pretty long and we always find out really early, so a little private time is good.

So there! If you didn't know it before, now ya do! Cat's outta the bag, and all that...the Wolverine is already talking about the "baby in Mommy's tummy" with affection, but I'm not certain he grasps the concept just yet. Hell, I'm not certain I grasp the concept just yet! Having two running around at the same time is gonna be a challenge, but one we look forward to with great joy and anticipation!

Also, HAPPY FOURTH everyone! On your day off, think a little bit about the grand nation we live in and the freedoms we enjoy. And if you set off illegal fireworks, SHUT IT DOWN BY 11! Some of us gotta get up early in the morning...

"What would you change if you could..."

Pictured at left is Adam Durvitz, from one of MY favorite 90's artists, the COUNTING CROWS.

Admittedly, at the time, I felt like the 90's (particularly for pop and rock) were a freaking wasteland, devoid of much worth remembering. However, compared to the music happening NOW, the 90's were a golden age! And in retrospect, there was alot more great stuff out there than I realized at the time.

So...what about it? Set the wayback machine to 199? and give me a list of your favorite 90's muzak.

And make it good, cause this is our last music list for awhile!

"God what a mess..."

To my left, one of the greatest bands to ever stagger onto a stage, THE REPLACEMENTS! When I think of the 80's, it's not necessarily the Flock of Seagulls or Cyndi Lauper that spring to my mind, but more like these dudes...amongst others. What say you?

Hit me with your favorite songs/ albums/ etc from the lost decade... Now officially substituting Rick 8 for Chuck P!

Enjoy! And no one has guessed my lyrics in awhile....where's Tuttle when I need him? Come to think of it ...WHERE IS TUTTLE? Come on buddy, that baby ain't here yet...

"And where do we go from here..."

Okay folks...how bout them 70's tunes?

And to heck with the top five, just go nuts! What's your favorite tunes, groups/artists, genres, etc?

BTW-I personally think the 70's were a golden age that kicked the 60's artists in their Aquarian asses!

But that's just me...

Rock on, people!

"We only danced for a minute or two..."

Ok, so maybe it's that the topics have been scaring people off, or maybe folks are just too darned busy to post (not much activity at our other local theatre type site either)- either way, here's a series of fun, frothy summer-time and the livin is EEEEEAASSSSYYY questions.

Part A-

What are your FIVE favorite songs from the 1960's? Any genre, any artists, hell they can be five Herman's Hermits songs for all I care. (Did they even HAVE five songs?)

Hit me with your best shots, people...and let the summertime roll! (oops- both of those references courtesy of the 80's)

"We all find a place to start over again..." Pt Deux

TAKE THAT CBS!!!

Looks like the campaigns worked and JERICHO is back next year after all (albeit only for an 8 episode mid season arch). But hell, I'll take it!

Here's a link to a VARIETY article on the hoo-hah created by Jericho fans to save the show (including sending tons of nuts to CBS executives...you had to watch the show to get that). Pay close attention to THIS part of the article, as I think it's going to foreshadow things to come.

"I really think that what has been learned here is that networks are going to have to look at numbers and who is watching their show and who is downloading their show in a different way from here on out," Barbee said. "I think they have to understand that the Nielsens are not telling the story anymore and that the 18-49 demographic they're all so keen on is online and that's how increasingly they are getting their news and entertainment."

I couldn't agree more- and here's the link:

http://www.variety.com/article/VR1117966329.html?categoryid=14&cs=1

Has the "old way" of gauging fan interest in television shows, nay, perhaps even the method of even CREATING and delivering those shows, changed for good? Discuss at will.

"We all find a place to start over again..."

So, as my wife well knows about me, every so often, I have me a little epiphany! The daylight bursts through the clouds, and for a moment, I get it. Well, I'm here to tell you folks, last night I got it!
I was one of the privileged few to attend the Jason and the Scorchers reunion show at the Exit In in Nash-vegas, or as I like to call it, the Mother Land. And this wasn't just the reunion of the old lineup, it was a special night. Drummer Perry Baggs (pictured above) has been waging a brave fight against kidney failure and diabetes. His medical bills have been mounting, so in order to help defray these costs, a number of small benefits around the region were planned. The Scorchers show sold out in roughly half a day. Luckily, my brother had the foresight to call and get us all tickets 5 minutes after getting the email about the show from me. I feel privileged not only because the Scorchers are one of my favorite bands (and one of the handful of truly inspiring live rock and roll acts EVER) and not only because I was able, in a small way, to help Perry pay his bills, but I feel that I was part of a truly remarkable event last night. This was no ordinary rock show, nor even an ordinary Scorchers show (which is ANYTHING but ordinary in and of itself). No, something else happened. It was one of those times when I felt that there is indeed some good and light in the world. Everyone in that room was there to help a man in dire straits, not just in a financial way, but in what I believe was a spiritual way. At least ten times though out the evening the audience loudly chanted, not the BAND'S name, but the name PERRY! There was a constant showering of love, goodwill and appreciation for all his years of fine work. I wish you all could've been there to witness the effect it had on this man. The look on his face of absolute bliss and humility and thanks and love upon hearing the crowds reaction to what may well have been his last entrance to the stage was something to behold. In this horribly superficial world we live in, it was a moment of genuine depth, and it moved me in a way that I shall never forget.

Then there was the show itself. These men who took the stage had not played together for a good while (in the case of two former members of the band who joined in the 2nd set, fifteen years! ) and there were times it showed. Glitches aplenty, dropped lyrics, missed guitar licks, etc. But for every bum note, there were 50 sublime moments. Warner Hodges guitar work in particular (check out his myspace page in my links section) was at times some of the most fierce, passionate playing I have ever witnessed. And I've seen damn near every living guitar god there is folks. Last night, not a one them would've gotten close to him. It was obvious that he, singer Jason Ringenberg and the rest of these men were playing as though their lives, and quite possibly the life of their friend, depended on it. And I promise you, if passion could cure what physically ails us, there would've been a world of healing going on in that club last night. And to watch these men,every one of them pushing 50,play for over 3 hours, pushing their aging bodies to the limit (on more than one occasion I thought someone might just keel over from sheer exhaustion) was, to say the least, inspiring. Perry himself was perhaps the most inspiring of all. He played his drum kit with all the fire and passion he did 25 years ago when I saw the bands first gig (New Years eve at a little dive in the boro called KO's- I snuck in on with my brothers license. Ah, those were the days!). He had to come off every second or third number and rest, turning the drum kit over to the Scorchers current drummer (and KY resident Fenner Castner), often times to weak to even descend from the drum riser without a hand from Warner or Jason. It reminded me not only of the strength of the human will, but also how vitally important art can be to someone. This man was willing to literally torture his body to play for this crowd. That, in itself, speaks volumes. And it made me realize something, that of course I already know. So I suppose it merely illuminated it for again. Our lives exist right here, and right now. In the moment. Ultimately, that's what it all comes down to. I'm not suggesting we shouldn't revere the past, nor keep an eye on the future. Those things are vital as well. But to truly be able to live in, and FOR, the moment is a gift of the highest order. Last night, I was reminded of that fact. I'll try not to forget it quite so quickly next time.

So yeah, it was a pretty heavy evening for me, but one filled with sheer joy and goodwill. Unfortunately, all those of you who weren't there have in evidence are the rambling postings of a man working on about 2 hours of sleep. Suffice it to say that in the future, whenever I'm engaged in a theological discussion and someone asks me to point to evidence of God, I'll just tell 'em all about Perry's benefit.

If you'd like to contribute to Perry' s medical fund, follow this link:

http://www.farmerjason.com/perry_home.htm

And now for the question du joir... what's the most moving artistic experience you've ever been involved in? Rock me, Amadeus...

MUSICIANS WANTED!

ATTENTION EVERYONE!

We are in need of a guitar player, bassist, and drummer for the "house band" of the musical WORKING, which runs from July 12th through August 5th at Studio Players. If any of you know of anyone to fit the bill, drop me a post with suggestions, or email / call me if you know the number.

Don;t delay, as time is of the essence!

BTW- If you know either of these two guys pictured , they would work perfectly! If you know who they are, 100,000 points! (a little hint)

"Kickin' ass on the wild side "

HEY EVERYBODY!!!! It's Memorial Day Weekend...wanna party like THESE GUYS??????

Well, you're S.O.L.-BUT if you wanna have a fun afternoon, come by the X-man's family estate at 4pm Sunday for an afternoon of burgers, dogs, kiddie pools, and Rock and Roll Music played at a respectable neighborhood volume!!! Bring the fixins and beverages of your choice, and of course, feel free to bring the younguns!

RSVP via the message boards, and leave emails and I'll shoot directions to you. PARTY ON, boys and girls!!!!!

...and actually, at the CRUE'S age, we probably WILL be partying harder than them!

"And I hope when I get old I don't sit around thinking about it"

So here's a nice shot of me and one of my older bros with the little dude. We're a good lookin' bunch, us boys! Course, like everybody, we're getting older (Still got the hair though! It's graying, but as my Daddy used to say "I don't care what color it turns so long as it don't turn loose! Apologies to the follicular challenged amongst my readers...) and sometimes I get to thinking about the boy I was vs the man I am. Having kids'll do that to a fellow.

I remember a great story from about 25 years ago. I was hanging out drinking the night away with my pals ("...as one MUST..." to quote Rod Stewart) when I got on a tangent about how shitty so and so's parents treated them and when I had kids THEY were gonna have the freedom to do what they want , and explore and blah blah blah...and my friend Mike Vermilion (whom I haven't seen in WAY too long) said to me point blank "Dude...locked inside of you is a forty year old man whose kids ain't going NOWHERE!"

I, of course, balked at this...but NOW...I wonder. See, when I was that age, I never even thought I'd even get hitched, must less have kids! To paraphrase Benedick "When I said I would die a bachelor, I never thought I should LIVE till I were married..." (or something of that order) Yet , fourteen years and one child later, here I am with an honest to goodness family, job, mortgage, etc...Didn't really see that coming back then. But you know what? I wouldn't change a damn thing! (OK, the massive student loan and that late 80's mullets MAYBE...but other than that...) Still, if you'd have asked me where I'd be 25 years ago, I guarantee that Lexington KY is NOT the answer I'd have given. And quite frankly, my son probably WON'T be going anywhere till he's old enough to whip me in a fair fight...which should be in about 3 years.

So here's my question - what, in your youth did you SWEAR you'd never do, that you've actually found yourself doing?

Go Nuts...and NUTS to CBS for STILL cancelling JERICHO!!!!

I sometimes can't let go of things...

..and 287 points for the EASY lyric...specially if'n you know your Xman!

"...the guns shot above our heads..."

HEROES frakin' ROCKED last night! Is it just me, or are any of you becoming less and less enthralled with films lately? Not necessarily films in GENERAL, but particularly where the "genre" (Sci-fi, comic books, etc) tales are concerned, I think the folks on the small screen do it a HELL of alot better as of late! This would almost seem like a no-brainer to me, as you have a long period of time to develop characters and let plots lines, mysteries and twists unfold (that is if the network isn't FOX or CBS and they cut you off at the knees without giving the show a chance! DRIVE and JERICHO, we hardly knew ye) But when they DO give shows a bit of room to breathe, such as HEROES, it can pay off wonderfully! This show started off with a great premise, but was a bit shaky in the dialogue department- and quite frankly, it wasn't really moving at too brisk of a clip where the plot was concerned. BUT- fast forward to about the last 8 episodes, and you've got some really great, kick ass genre TV. It culminated with last night's episode, which was one of the finest hours of TV I've seen in awhile (at least since the episode TWO weeks ago! ) Sure , they're basically just dredging up the XMEN / DAYS OF FUTURE PAST plot line, but SO WHAT? Did you SEE the last XMEN flick? SUCKED! Spidey three? SUCKTACULAR! Superman returns? SEND HIM BACK - return to suck-o! The HEROES writers can keep right on cribbing funny-book plot lines till the cows come home for all I care, cause it's damned compelling TV.

And while we're at it, have you watched LOST lately? Hey-sus on a cracker! Those boys are swinging for the fences with the second half of the season. Once again, they started out slow, but my lord they're finishing strong. Last week's epi wrapped with a gut-shot John Locke lying on top of an uncovered mass grave! THAT'S quality TV folks!

Honestly, what with LOST, HEROES, GALACTICA, and the (possibly) recently departed JERICHO , it's a damned good time to be a fan of SCI FI / post apocalyptic TV! So here's the question- what was / is your favorite SCI FI/ HORROR/post apoc./ any of that genre television show ever? And also, is there one you started to get hooked on when the network suits pulled the plug? One you're just DYING to see how it all ends? (See JERICHO, as previously mentioned a bunch! F. YOU, CBS!*)

KTA JOB OPENING

FYI to all KY residents:

The Kentucky Theatre Association, Kentucky 's leading theatre organization - serving theatre at all levels - is seeking its first Executive Director.

Description - The Executive Director will work with Board of Directors to fulfill the mission of The Kentucky Theatre Association. Duties will include but are not limited to the organization and administration of the annual Kentucky Theatre Association Festival, web-site maintenance, fundraising, special programming administration, and the development and implementation of public relations programs to increase KTA membership.

The Executive Director may work from any location in or in close proximity to the Commonwealth of Kentucky but must be willing to travel to various locations for regular board meetings, committee meetings and organizational events.
Minimum of a Bachelors Degree in Arts Administration, Business or Theatre, or equivalent experience in the field is required.

This is a 1099/independent contractor position. Salary: $600.00 monthly plus compensation for travel. Hire date: Summer 2007 (Negotiable) thru December 15, 2007.

Qualifications - The candidate must be computer literate, possess strong organizational and communications skills, have knowledge of fund raising and grant writing, and have an interest in, if not a strong knowledge of, the theatre. Previous experience working for non-profits is a plus.

The candidate must be able to devote on average 40 hours/month. The fall months leading up to the November conference will demand a greater time commitment

Application - Qualified individuals should submit a letter of application, a resume, and names and contact information for three references via email to kytheatreassoc@qx.net. For additional information, please visit our website at http://www.theatreky.org. Application deadline: May 31, 2007.

Post any questions you have, or give me an email shout!

-X

"Heaven knows...I'm in head over heels and it shows..."

Oh Garth...it was the beginning of the end for you, wasn't it? Probably SOUNDED like a good idea. "Hey guys, I know...let's create this cool, sorta Rock and Roll alter ego, and I'll put out an album by HIM...then, I know...we'll make a MOVIE of it! Yeah, that's it! Damn...I'll finally be bigger than the Beatles!"

Didn't quite work out that way, did it Chris...I mean GARTH? The DID do a nice job of making his face look thin, though, dontcha think?

So why this trip down memory lane for you audiophiles? Cause this wound up on the top of the list of "really stupid music ideas"... check out the link at http://spinner.aol.com/photo-galleries/15-worst-music-ideas-ever-milli-vanilli-movie .

This list is a hoot so check it out (but remember, you'll probably have to cut and paste. For some reason, the links aren't live when they're in my post. Have to look into that...)

So this got me to thinking...what do you consider the WORST theatre / film ideas ever? Gimmie a list of your top five of each, and spare no quarter! Make 'em good! After my last few depressing posts, we need a little F-U-N!

Have at it....oh, and the lyric is a freebie (It's the late, great CHRIS GAINES hisself!)

"We sailed across the air before we learned to fly..."

So, I'm kinda bummed...normally, as my loyal readers know, I don't bring my personal stuff with me to blogland, but today was a particularly craptastic day. And it's all esoteric stuff- nothing I can particularly touch. But it's there nonetheless.

It all started this morning with GOOD MORNING AMERICA and a story I saw about something called GRUPSTERS. Ever heard this term? Not me..till today. Among other things, these lovely folks are the "new breed" of parent who have decided to keep their hipster identities (you know the type...wearing clothes that they really have no business wearing at their age, and name dropping bands like "The Arcade Fire" and "Of Montreal"?) and not "lose themselves" in their children. "We don't want to give up our IDENTITY for our child!" You know what folks? That there is shit people without kids say. I used to say it before the beautiful little boy to your left came along. But you know what? To a degree, parenthood makes you ...well...obsolete. OK...so maybe that's to strong a word. But it certainly shifts your priorities. YOU are not as important as YOU used to be. That's what parenthood does, ideally. It robs us of our narcissism (at least, theoretically). We now have someone who (SHOULD) mean more to us than ourselves. And I'm sorry to say, but if you don't have kids you CAN'T UNDERSTAND THIS...not fully. But don't get me wrong! I come not here to condemn people who've made a choice to not have children. It's a valid, and quite frankly very mature choice to make. If you don't ABSOLUTELY want children, don't have 'em! There's plenty of rugrats in the world as it is. My best friend in Tennessee is forever going on about how people give so much shite to him and his wife about hoe SELFISH they are for not having kids! BULLSHIT! It's SELFISH to have them when you know that you really shouldn't. But I digress...

Anyhoo...in this story about these GRUPSTERS and how they don't want to "lose their identities for their children" , I heard some of the most obnoxious, selfish trash I've heard in YEARS! Like the woman who said " Oh, NO WIGGLES or BARNEY in our house ! On Saturday mornings it's DISCO music for us! And she LOVES IT!" Yeah...that's real good. Fire up some Gloria Gaynor for your 8 month old! You know why kids listen to Barney and all that other crap? They LIKE it!!!It's AGE APPROPRIATE ! To me, that's like the morons who drag a 6 year old to see Richard the third. OF COURSE he's gonna hate it, because it's OVER HIS HEAD!!!! This, my friends, is the sole reason we have at least two full generations of people who hate (or THINK they hate ) Theatre. (Much in the same way my brilliant theatre career almost never was because of a dreadfully boring LITTLE FOXES I had to endure in the 7th grade...But that's another post...) And then there was the genius who said...and BOY this one really got me..."Remember...WE aren't coming into HIS life..HE'S coming into OURS!" To quote Hank Jr "I'd like to spit some Beech nut in that dude's eye... (and the closet rednecks amongst you know the rest) What a friggin Bastard! HE didn't ask to come into the world, sparky...YOU BROUGHT HIM HERE! So it seems to me, you at LEAST owe him a "smidge" of your time!

It's tough raising kids, folks. I've worked alot of hard jobs in my life. Hell, I grew up on a working farm and was doing real physical labor while alot of folks my age were just learning to ride a bike. I KNOW hard work and I ain't afraid of it...but there IS no harder job than being a parent. But you know what? I love it! And I wouldn't trade a second of it for all the lottery winnings in the world. Do I think it's important to not lose yourself in your kids? Hell yes...if I ain't a well rounded guy, I ain't gonna be a well rounded Daddy. But do I have to adhere to old ways and habits in a desperate attempt cling to my ever fading youth, at the expense of my son? Hell no! Not this guy...

So anyway, I guess the fact that I saw all these hipsters on TV , it just made me angry, and a bit depressed. My wife and I are literally killing ourselves making what we hope is a decent, loving environment for my son and still make a decent living, and these pricks could care less...And yes, I know that's a gross simplification, and I'm lashing out at a 2 minute sound- byte, and I know it's unreasonable. But I don;t really care cause dammit I'M in a funk now! It's so much more. Those of you in the inner circle know of the "professional hoops" I'm having to jump through and how unfair that all seems, and those of you who have ever taken a gander at my wife's blog know that the IRS raped us last month... so I just got a lot on the plate, and I let it bring me down today. There's also the fact that for two years I've been trying desperately to get at least a few more of my USM brethren to join us on the blog. Hell, I MADE this thing for them, so we could all stay in touch better, but, my guess is that most of 'em just simply don't care...and quite frankly that stings a little bit. Despite my gruff exterior...etc...etc...

But I AM thankful for those of you who do post. You've turned this Little site into something greater than I imagined, and I thank you for it. It's really great therapy for me, and it DOES allow me to keep in touch with great folks out the area like Mills. and D $ and Laurie Lou...so I suppose I should quit whining and count my blessings every now and then.

Rant over...I fell much better now! And I hope I haven't offended anyone with my ranting s on parenthood. If so, feel free to flame me unabashedly!

DIVA NEWS!!!!

For all my USM bros and sisters, here's the DIVA MASTER'S latest and greatest! AND...while I GOT YOU HERE (heh heh) , how's about some comments on this topic? WHAT ARE YOU DOING THIS SUMMER??? (Lex folk and regular posters, feel free to chime in on this as well, and to greet any and all USM Divas new to the blog-o-sphere!)


The DIVA NEWSLETTER!!!
"Bakery-fresh. Thought-provoking. Sexy-hot."

Scott Stinson is now working for Trustmark National Bank's Training Department in Jackson, MS.

Check out Wendy O.'s Yoga website! www.divinesparkyoga.com

Bart Noggle is currently in a production at the Dallas Hub Theatre of "Top Gun, the Musical" playing the role of Iceman. After that closes he will be playing Oberon from Midsummer.

Check out Chris Walrath's myspace page! http://www.myspace.com/capatolaprods

Canady (Vance) Thomas gave birth to little girl Klein Addison Thomas just last week. Congrats!

FROM JOHNNY MOORE..............................

Hello Divas,My movie "Glorious Mail" that I co-wrote and directed will be screening this Sunday in Birmingham, AL at the BirminghamSHOUT! GAy + Lesbian Film Festival at the WorkPlay Soundstage at 5:00 P.M. Please let anyone you know in that area about the screening. It's a very funny movie and we won 2nd Best Feature last weekend at the 2007 Appalachian Film Festival in Huntington, WV and we hope to have a big turn out for our Gay festival premiere this weekend. Birmingham is billing it as a World Premiere, even though it is not, technically -- They don't know yet that we had sex with a straight festival last weekend... it's a long story and I will blog about it later. Also, check out the link below for my first interview about the movie with the local film critic in Huntingon. Hope y'all have a divalicious weekend and hope to see some of you at the screening!!http://www.huntingtonnews.net/local/070423-rutheford-box.html



FROM FREDDIE.............................

I am participating in a panel discussion on Sunday, April 29 at City Theatre of Pittsburgh. The panel is called "State of Play" and it is about the state of new play development in the American theatre. Other panelists include Diane Rodriguez (Mark Taper Forum), Tracy Brigden (A.D. of City Theatre), Seth Gordon (Cleveland Play House), Ted Pappas (A.D. of Pittsburgh Public Theatre), Howard Shalwitz (A.D. of Woolly Mammoth Theatre). I am also in rehearsals for Camelot at the Aurora Theatre, which will be the inaugural production in their new space and will direct a concert version of Oklahoma there this summer. In August, I break away from Golden Age musicals to direct Dark Play or Stories for Boys at Actor's Express.

The Fantasticks directed by Daryl W. Phillipy and Set Design by D. David Murphy opened on April 24 and closed April 26. This is Daryl’s last production at Southern Arkansas University. Daryl will be heading to New York City this June to participate in The Teachers Development Program at The Actor’s Center.
Daryl says,
" I will be studying with nationally and internationally known artists and teachers:
Christopher Bayes, Head of Physical Acting, Yale School of Drama
Slava Dolgachev, Artistic Director, New Theatre of Moscow
William Esper, Director of Actor Training, Rutgers University
J. Michael Miller, Founder, Tisch School of the Arts
Ron Van Lieu, Chair of the Acting Program, Yale School of Drama
This is a two week marathon-immersion acting class experience. I also recently completed a weekend intensive with Shakespeare & Company. I’m also looking forward to moving to Rock Hill, SC and buying a house. I start at Winthrop University in August."

FROM HEATHER ROEBUCK......................................

Here's an update on the film, Change 29, that I worked on.We've finished shooting the film and we are now in post. We shot about 600 hours in 5 days, with 3 cameras running almost all the time. We filmed mostly at the Gulfport Dragway on a very busy race weekend. It was totally crazy. I drove down the day before shooting the first weekend thinking I would be the production manager and running a camera when needed but ended up being the emergency assistant director due to the fact the original AD was stuck in Atlanta. Kinda funny when you think about it since I hadn't read the script and totally sucked at directing when I took George's class. In fact, I ended up working as the AD, a camera operator, the production manager, a grip, a boom operator, oh, and an actor. I had two whole lines! Can't wait to see how that turned out. Or if he keeps it in the film. I did a few other things but who knows if I will be billed for them. I don't care either way. We were under a lot of time restraints but we pulled it off. Shawn, the director is in the process of editing and looking for music for the soundtrack. Change 29 is slated to be released in November 2007, but may be later if we are accepted into Sundance. So cross your fingers for us. I created a small, quick video with some behind the scenes footage if anyone is interested in viewing it. And I'm also leaving a link for some pictures that was taken over the 5 days of shooting and the film's myspace page if you want to keep up with what is going on. I will give everyone a heads up on things as I get them. http://www2.blogger.com/http://www2.blogger.com/filmseyehttp://www.myspace.com/genofeveentertainment



In other news...somewhere, right now...Ben Craven is gettin' laid


AND YOU'RE NOT.

"Ain't it funky,now..."

Anthro-Fab and Tobacco Bar Theatre Company (NYC) present

By John Patrick Shanley Directed by Dana Panepinto
Sunday May 13, 8pm
Monday May 14, 8pm
Tuesday May 15, 8pmUnder St. Marks94 St Marks Place (1st and A)
Tix $10 advance/ $15 doorLog on to www.smarttix.com or call (212) 868-4444

A fresh take on Shanley's luminous script using moving bodies and sharp tongues. A riveting look at the "big funk" that is the modern condition. Can the power of compassion and faith triumph over it? Omar throws knives for a living and muses about the state of the world. His understanding wife, Fifi, suddenly pregnant with twins, acts as a rudder for him, and often for his friend, Austin, an out of work actor, who believes the world would be a better place if everyone would do something, even one small act of kindness. He follows his own advice when he comes upon Jill, a young woman sitting in a bar...covered with grease.

featuringColleen Britt Deanna McGovern Ellen Hauck Michael Schantz Toby Knops Jesse Soursourian

The Director of this piece (Dana Panepinto) is one of my fave gals from my Grad school days at USM. She's a tremendously talented, delicious DIVA and if any of you are in the NYC area, or know someone who is, tell 'em to check this out. Wish I could be there, Dana!

Sooo...based on the title of said Shanley piece, what exactly IS the "Big Funk" we're living in now, and what has contributed to it? Go nuts, people!

John Jor...uhh...I mean JANE MARTIN show premieres @ AGL!

(Pictured from Left- Former BOONIE Hayley Williams, and Lara "Sweet Brier" St. Peter in AGL's ANTON IN SHOW BUSINESS)

HEY YA'LL! This week ANTON IS SHOW BUSINESS opens at AGL here in Lex-vegas. Do yourself a favor and go see it! Not ONLY is it directed by Cinncinatti Shakes' AD Brian Issac Phillips, and not ONLY does it have a stellar cast featuring some of the finest actresses here in the bluegrass, BUT it's a JANE MARTIN piece. Anyone who knows Tim X at all knows of my affinity for "Ms" Martin's works. One of my all time favorite shows, KEELY AND DU, was one of the most talked about shows of the 90's. It is also the first show I had the pleasure of directing my wife in (as Keely) and she was fan-damn-tastic! That was one of the most intimate, special pieces I've ever worked on, and it culminated with people litterally weeping in the audience...NOT crying, not sobbing but WEEPING! It was, as Mr Sartin in fond of saying, "Pure Magic!". I've also directed "Ms" Martin's VITAL SIGNS (not as good as his first all female monologue fest TALKING WITH, but pretty close) and the play I consider to be the funniest thing I've ever read MIDDLE AGED WHITE GUYS. I am desperate to direct this in Lexington when I get the chance and find the right venue...but it is, without a doubt, one of the wackiest, yet most touching pieces you'll ever see. I've been trying to get Rick to do it for years, but he won't bite. (Hell, dude, it takes place on a BASEBALL FIELD for God's sake! What more do you need????:) But I digress...

So get out and go see this wonderful ensemble piece with it's cutting edge humor, first rate production staff, and delightful cast...here's the details:

Presented by: Actors Guild of Lexington

When: Preview performances at 7:30 p.m. April 18 and 19. The show opens April 20 and runs through May 13. Showtimes are 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays.

Where: Downtown Arts Center, 214 E. Main St.Tickets: Regular performances: $24 general admission; $18 ages 65 and older; $15 students. April 19 preview is $20 general admission; $14 ages 65 and older, $12 students. April 18 and 22 are pay-what-you-can performances.

Phone: (859) 225-0370. Online: www.actorsguildof lexington.com

Sooo...question for today is: What is the FUNNIEST play you've ever read/seen/been involved with?

"So move b*^*h, get out the way ho..."

Comments?

"This is my story..."

DATELINE LEXINGTON!
Join Bluegrass Community and Technical College
in partnership with Actor’s Guild of Lexington as it makes its
Theatrical début with the Kentucky premier of Laddy Sartin's BLESSED ASSURANCE.
April 4th and 5th at 8:00 PM in the Downtown Arts Center, Lexington.
Tickets: 859-225-0370
BCTC students, faculty, and staff- $4.00
General Public- $10.00
A reception for playwright Laddy Sartin will be held Thursday, April 5th at
7:00 PM in the reception area of the Downtown Arts Center.

It would mean a great deal to me if one and all could come this new endeavor. We have put a lot of work into getting this baby off the ground, and we really need support. The idea behind this Theatre program is to not only serve the BCTC student popualation, but to serve as another perfoming group for the Lexington community. We have big plans afoot, and are really looking forward to a great kickoff with this premiere production. A special thanks to the folks at AGL and Lexarts for all their help and support.
So please spread the word and come check out what we've got in store for you. We have a great cast and a dynamite production crew. I think you'll be glad you did!


...feel free to use up valuable bandwidth with well wishes and good karma!

...and 1,000 points for the obvious reference (unless you're a heathen!)

"Take me away...I don't mind..."

"SHERMAN...set the wayback machine for..."

Anybody remember these guys? LOVED these cartoons (and their related family- Bullwinkle, Fractured fairy tales, etc)

Lately, I been thinking about the past quite a bit. I tend to be a fellow who likes to reminisce on the "good old days". On reflection though, I usually realize that those days weren't so good, and that there is no better time to be me than right now. But nevertheless, I can't help but think back to "simpler times" in my life. One of the things that takes me back the quickest is the music. A song can slingshot me back to a particular time and place faster than Doc Brown's flux capacitor! (There's a lyric hint*) That's the nice thing about music, and Art in general I suppose, is it's power to not only transform us, but to transPORT us as well.

But enough rumination and pontificating! I'll leave that to ya'll...

What do you consider the greatest period, or "golden age" of :

A) Music

B) Theatre

C) Film

"Get on it, Sherman!"

"YES SIR, Mister Peabody!"

"Come on sister have yourself a ball"

FOR SPORTS GEEKS ONLY!!!!

IT'S THAT TIME OF YEAR, folks! So lets just cut to the chase and get right to it!

Gimmie your :

a) Final 8

b) final 4

c) final game and ultimate winner

d) biggest upset!

e) odds that UK will have a new coach next year!

LET'S DANCE!!!! BTW- 64 points for the reference....

"But I got to missin' your Mama..."

Well, SETC is almost here and I can't friggin' wait! I'll be doing a workshop (Outdoor Drama Survival Skills) with DIVA Darren Van Halen and Rick8 of AGL fame, doing my thing with the auditions committee and the Leighton Belew scholarship, going to a shit-ton of meetings and workshops, and trying to save a few moments to see some of the people I get to see once a year. I also may have a drink...or 20!

These past two weeks have seen me reach heretofore unattained levels of stress and I truly need a bit of a break. But I'll do what I always do at SETC- I'll work- I'll network-I'll help out my students (or in this case any former students, as none of my current ones are going this year. New program, and all...) -I'll try to learn something I can take back to the classroom, and I'll fret and kvetch the whole way about money. And while being away from the office will definitely be good for my state of mind...being away from the wife and kid, that'll be good for about 8 hours, then I'll start missing them both something fierce, and call home 6 times a day to make sure he and the missus are both OK. Then I'll start stressing about work again...

That's just who I am, though, and I guess that's who I'll always be. I always seem to want "a break" till I get it...then I don't know what to do with myself. I've had to work so hard and for so long, that I just don't really remember how to decompress...I think I might need to work on that at some point. Until then, I guess I'll just hope for a good, productive trip...and a few close, well stocked, Atlanta bars.

BTW- the image is an SETC image from their site... the backside belongs to one Teza Garland, a great, talented gal, and a former BOONEie by association...

Enough of my griping. What I wanna know is this- tell me about the best time you ever had at a "Theatre conference" (be it SETC, ACTF, URTA, UPTA, USITT, TCG, or any other letters...or hell, even if it was a state HS festival from your youth. My big brothers can tell some WHOPPERS about those trips...) The definition of "best" is up to you.

LET 'ER RIP!!!