The Shreveport Symphony Orchestra returns on Sat, Jan 30, 7:30 pm, with soloist Jennifer Frautschi

SSO soloist Jennifer Frautschi, Jan 30
Originally uploaded by trudeau

The Shreveport Symphony Orchestra, Michael Butterman and special guest, Grammy-nominated violin soloist Jennifer Frautschi, kick things off in grand style with three of Tchaikovsky's best-loved works, says Leah Escude of the concert on Sat, Jan 30. The show begins at 7:30 pm at Riverview Theater.

Tchaikovsky's high-octane, intensely emotional music will resound through the theater, says Escude, and through your soul.

Now you can buy SSO tickets online. Yay.

Avery Fisher career grant recipient violinist Jennifer Frautschi has gained acclaim as an adventurous performer with a wide-ranging repertoire.

Ms. Frautschi has created a sensation with appearances as soloist with Pierre Boulez and the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Christoph Eschenbach and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra at the Ravinia Festival, and at Wigmore Hall and Lincoln Center's Mostly Mozart Festival. She has also soloed in recent seasons with the Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia, Cincinnati Symphony, Kansas City Symphony, Louisville Orchestra, Orchestra of St. Luke’s, San Diego Symphony, and Seattle Symphony.

Alexandyr Kent's film blog is back; this time it's The RFC Blog; see it at RobinsonFilmCenter.org

Alexandyr Kent at RFC
Originally uploaded by Robinson Film Center

The many fans of Alexandyr Kent's Louisiana Movies blog can redirect their browsers and catch more of his reportage at RobinsonFilmCenter.org.

Additionally, says Chris Jay, "We've given our website a facelift – take a look! It's easier than ever to donate, find movie show times, browse the lunch, dinner, and drink menus from Abby Singer's Bistro, or even order a Robinson Film Center t-shirt through our new on-line store. While you're there, stop by Director of Community Outreach Alexandyr Kent's blog and read up on all of the outstanding media literacy programs currently being taught by the Robinson Film Center."

Brian Blade @ Bear's on Fairfield, Wed, Jan 6, 10:30 pm, with Monica Mickle, Shawn Stroope, Mark Griffith and Lane Bayliss

Brian Blade
Originally uploaded by Moochin Photoman

"We'll be playing songs from his new album, Mama Rosa, as well as new tunes that Brian has not yet recorded," said Lane Bayliss of the impromptu gigs he's playing in Shreveport with jazz luminary Brian Blade.

Blade is one of the most accomplished drummers in the world. He has recorded and performed with Joni Mitchell, Wayne Shorter, Bill Frisell, Joshua Redman, Bob Dylan.

Raised in the Stoner Hill neighborhood, Blade is the son of luminous Pastor Brady Blade, Sr. After graduating from Caddo Magnet High, Blade absorbed Loyola the music of New Orleans while attending Loyola U. In NYC his radiant personality and skill as a drummer and composer have resulted in 3 of his own jazz albums and sparkling reviews in the NY Times.

Now he has discovered his full voice. Blade is singing, playing guitar and fronting the band - in his modest way. He is a heart-breakingly sincere and melodic artist. Sounds a bit like Neil Young, actually.

He will be accompanied by singer Monica Mickle, bassist Shawn Stroope, guitarist Mark Griffith as well as drummer Bayliss.

Listen to Brian Blade and the Fellowship Band at Newport Jazz Fest 09.

The Shreveport group will perform after Buddy Flett's solo gig, said Bayliss.

Bear's
1401 Fairfield Avenue
Shreveport, LA 71101-4301
(318) 674-9660

Robin and the Bluebirds, Buddy Flett, Windstorm, Deidre & Bob: the Flett calendar for January

Bruce Flett, Shreveport / Bluebirds
Originally uploaded by trudeau

Here's Bruce Flett's email blast from near the center of the region's musical burner. The satirical Flett always opens and closes with a bit of stand-up; for example . . .

Welcome to Shreveport/Bossier
Louisiana's OTHER Side
"The Happy Side of the Happiest State"

2010 The Year of the Song

Friday, Jan 8
Buddy solo in Marshall, TX In the Square, Restaurant/club
Robin & the Bluebirds @ Mardi Gras party(private)
Deidre&bob @ Jayne Marie on Cross Lake 6:30-10

Saturday, Jan 9
Shreveport All Stars @Hospitality House noon til 1pm Fannin St @Pete Harris Dr
Deidre & Bob @ Jayne Marie on Cross Lake 318 631 0919
Windstorm @ Wedding Reception www.shreveportbossierweddings.com

Thursday, January 14 Sam's Town Live, 7-11 Robin & the Bluebirds

Saturday, Jan 16 Buddy solo at Crossroads Music Co, Winnsboro, TX 7:30pm

Friday, January 22 Robin & the Bluebirds Mardi Gras @ Jayne Marie on Cross Lake, Shreveport 7-10 special show-7 piece band!

If you'd like to get the Flett Info on a regular basis: blucebird@aol.com.

West Edge Artists celebrate Carnival season with Karpeles exhibit; opening on Sat, Jan 9, 1 pm

West Edge Artists celebrate Carnival season
Originally uploaded by trudeau

Downtown classics: Cookie & Dan at the Noble Savage on Tues, Jan 5, 7 pm

Downtown classics: Cookie & Dan at the Noble Savage
Originally uploaded by trudeau

The Noble Savage is downtown's warm and rosy zoo.

Give peace a chance:" The Beautiful Beatle Garden" by Arodasi at Artspace on Feb 26, 27 and 28

Give Peace a chance 1
Originally uploaded by trudeau

The Arodasi® Dancers are proud to present "The Beautiful Beatle Garden," A Visual Sound & Movement Co. kinetic production in the “cavern” below artspace in downtown Shreveport (funspace), says Kristi Hanna.

The show will be on Friday and Saturday night, Feb 26 & 27 at 8:00 pm and a Sunday matinee Feb 28 at 3:00 pm. The performance, which features only music by the Beatles, is directed and created by Dorothy Kristin Hanna, who is fulfilling a long desired dream to use only ground breaking music by the “Fab Four.” Ms. Hanna has created over 150 original, "Theatrical Stage Productions," since the early seventies. This improvisational experience and musical story dancing will feature eight dancers, artists, musicians, actors and painters including: Laura Brucia Hamm, Skye Creswell, Michael Gil, Madeline McClure, Jessica Canfield, Genevieve Ress, Stephanie Harrell, and Alan Dyson; with lighting, pyrotechnics and stage design by Bruce Allen. The show will highlight, Laura Brucia Hamm, a first generation immigrant from Italy who has been dancing since she was five years old.

This performance is sponsored by Andy Shehee and the Rose-Neath Funeral Homes and it is dedicated to the loving memory of Mona Vaughn Fazio, former dancer and collaborator with the AVS&M Co. She passed away, August 2008.

Tickets prices are $20.00 for general admission and $10.00 if you are dressed as a full-fledged hippie. There will be a “hippie section” for video and a documentary to be filmed during the performance. For more information see www.arodasi.com or contact: Dorothy Kristin Hanna at 318-221-0678; or email at dorothykh@earthlink.net.

Bossier Arts Council classes for young artists: voice, violin, photography, calligraphy, mixed media, theater and more

Work by Mike Paul
Originally uploaded by trudeau

Voice, violin, photography, calligraphy, mixed media, theatre and more are yours now in Bossier, says Kelly Warner! Visit and click "TAKE A CLASS" in the left menu bar to see the full schedule bossierarts.org and download the REGISTRATION FORM at the bottom of the page! Below, a selected sampling of the numerous opportunities -

Theatre Mini-Camp
Instructor: Sculpted Entertainment
Session 1: 01/04, 01/05, 01/06
9am0in, BAC East Bank Theatre
Ages 5 & up
By the end of the 3-day camp, students will know how to use their creative juices and understand the first stages of acting. Students will explore new ways to use their creativity, develop strong characters, and much more.
Fee: $138 entire session

Acting Out!
Instructor: Sculpted Entertainment
Thursdays beginning Feb. 18
40in, BAC Annex
Ages 5 & up
Students will learn to use their creative juices and understand the first stages of acting culminating in a theatre review at the end of the 11-week session.
Fee: $20 per class

Vocal Awareness Workshop
Instructor: Sculpted Entertainment
2/20
10am0in, BAC Annex
Ages 14 & up
Take your acting skills to the next level. In-depth theatre workshop focusing on vocal awareness techniques.
Fee: $138

Film Auditioning Workshop
Instructor: Sculpted Entertainment
5/15
10am0in, BAC Annex
Ages 14 & up
Take your acting skills to the next level. In-depth theatre workshop focusing on film auditioning techniques.
Fee: $138

Music
Beyond Chopsticks: Piano Basics with Adam
Instructor: Adam Philley, B.M.
Weekly classes, M-F (Time & day to be determined by student and teacher), Asbury United Methodist Church
Ages 5 & up
Individual piano lessons teaching basic to intermediate piano skills with an overview of basic theory skills. Half-hour lessons. Instruction book to be determined by instructor.
Fee: $24 per lesson

Violin with Callie
Instructor: Callie Dean
Weekly classes, M-F (Time & day to be determined by student and teacher), BAC lower gallery
Ages 4 & up
Individual half-hour lessons on a weekly basis. During this time, students will work on learning songs and developing a good technique. Students will need a violin, shoulder rest/sponge, and instruction book to be determined by instructor.
Fee: $75 monthly

Voice with Missy
Instructor: Missy Wise, B.M.
Thursdays 3:45-4:30pm, BAC lower gallery
Ages 11-20 yrs
This studio class is designed for interested vocalists to learn the art of performance. Students need to bring a pencil & notebook.
Fee: $24 per class

Visual Arts
Understanding Your Camera
Instructor: Jennifer Robison
1/26
5-7pm, BAC Gallery
Ages 10 & up
A basic hands-on review of camera settings and functions and how they affect the results of your photography. Must bring digital camera to class.
Fee: $45

Painting with Light
Instructor: Jennifer Robison
3/30
5-7pm, BAC Gallery
Ages 10 & up
Use your camera to create original works using various lighting techniques. Must bring digital camera to class.
Fee: $45

Live Drawing
Instructor: Carola Nix
Session 1: 1/4, 1/18, 1/25, 02/15
Session 2: 3/1, 3/15, 3/22, 3/29
Session 3: 05/03, 05/17, 05/24, 05/31
6-9pm, BAC Annex
Ages 18 & up
Explore drawing techniques with a live model. Bring pencil & drawing paper, camera is optional.
Fee: $34 per class or $136 per session

Jump Into Art
Instructor: Kathleen Pate
Tuesdays 4-5pm, BAC Annex
Ages 8-13 yrs
Instruction in a variety of media including watercolor, collage, photography, acrylic, mixed media
Fee: $15 per class

Love Letters
Instructor: Lucienne Simon
Session 1: 01/07, 01/21, 01/28, 02/04
1-2:30pm, BAC Annex
Ages 12 & up
Just in time for Valentine's Day! Learn the basics of creating beautiful letterforms from the area's foremost calligrapher.
Fee: $165 session

Dan Garner, Cookie Garner and rockin friends at Lee's on E King's Hwy at 9 pm on Sat, Jan 2

Dan Garner, Cookie Garner and friends at Lee's
Originally uploaded by trudeau

Pickin' an' peelin:' a visit to Cat Daddy's Restaurant, 4158 Hollywood Ave, Shreveport, Louisiana

Interim agreement means Shreveport Symphony Orchestra has a 3-concert purchase on a new life; website returns

Butterman and Poling of the SSO
Originally uploaded by trudeau

The SSO is getting a one day jump on the new year, writes Susan Rogers, with a new home page announcing the three 2010 concerts which were agreed on in the Interim Agreement - January 30, March 5 and May 14. There's still some work to be done on the remaining pages of the website and we look forward to seeing it completed.

Please check out the concert season and pass it along to your friends and colleagues. January 30 concert is All Tchaikovsky.

www.shreveportsymphony.com

Also, check out my blogsite which has new photos from the I-49 Brass concert in December in which proceeds were donated to the Salvation Army. Also there: the TSO Holiday concert, which was presented in the Sullivan Performing Arts Centre located at Texas High School, Texarkana, TX. A very, very nice modern theatre with marvelous acoustics, spacious surroundings and comfortable seating. Can't believe it's located at a high school!!

www.shreveportmusicians4ever.blogspot.com

Happy New Year to you all and let's help make this a prosperous Symphony season.

Susan W. Rogers
sjwrogers@bellsouth.net

Neil Johnson on Blue light martinis and the art of photography

Neil Johnson, Njphoto.com
Originally uploaded by trudeau

Shreveport photographer and author Neil Johnson writes a background piece each month to accompany a photo sent to his email list. We are happy to publish this month's column:

BLUE LIGHT MARTINIS

The assignment was to shoot a series of photos of a new product line by Southern Aluminum, a southern Arkansas manufacturer that makes aluminum tables. The new products are a series of tables with lighted panels. There are small tables with one panel and a larger serving table with three panels. The panel light color can be changed.

There is a very elegant restaurant, The Village Grille, almost next door to my studio. It only opens for the dinner crowd and the owners were generous enough to let us use it as a setting for the shoot. It was the perfect restaurant setting because it has no windows, which meant I could totally control the light. The company reps brought the tables to town and we set them up in the restaurant one morning. While shooting the tables with the glowing panels, we decided the panels looked best with drink glasses on the panels to better communicate the panel lighting. We liked how the glass “pulled” the light up from below.

Then we needed a few “effect” images that would not show the brushed aluminum tables, but would show the sexy lighting effect only. This was one of those situations where I had to dive in, explore it, view the result and just see what I would get. We were all delightfully surprised by how nice the images looked on the laptop screen.

This is where the fun part of photography really kicks in and where the technology of both digital instant gratification and shooting tethered to a laptop are worth the price of admission. Once we determined it was working, I tuned out the commercial part of the shoot and let the artist in me cut loose. It became a matter of playing with the tools at hand: various lenses, composition, line, shape, pattern, form and color. What color works the best for this subject matter? Blue? Green? Purple? Yellow? Red? A little bit of tungsten light from way in the background provided a touch of gold in each glass. I loved that subtle touch of gold against blue, two colors on the opposite sides of the color wheel. With each composition that I liked, I shot all colors, just in case.
I must say that when photographing light, it looks supremely better on a computer screen than it does with ink on paper. Ink on paper does not glow. It reflects light. A completely different animal.

Also, with this image, I felt something like Alfred Stieglitz might have felt in 1922 with his “Equivalent” cloud image series. The glowing pixels here give me a feeling of “equivalence,” a theory which has abstract forms, lines, and colors representing corresponding inner states, emotions, ideas and emotive "vibrations of the soul."

I use the word “playing” because the “work” of shooting the tables was done. It is indeed a challenge to light and communicate the metal tables for a catalog and website, as well as show the effect of the lit panels. Those images were in the can. Creating images of almost nothing but light exhilarates me and in no way would I describe it as work. And it is exciting when a client trusts me (and my muse) with creative images. These glasses are empty of liquid, but filled with light. And they are filled, not from above, but from below, and from the inside out. My heart rate increases when I watch how light enters and caresses glass and interacts with it top to bottom. I am playing with light, darkness, color, depth of field, composition, unusual subject matter, glowing pixels.

This is why I do what I do. I am playing with all that is exciting about photography. Photography has the power to sometimes make me literally a bit giddy. That afternoon, I packed up the photography and lighting gear, straightened up the restaurant and wobbled back to the studio to sober up.

Ya really gotta watch out for those blue ones. Especially when you’ve had three.


Neil Johnson
January 2010
www.njphoto.com

Shreveport All Stars at the former Freeman & Harris Restaurant on Sat, Jan 2, noon to 1 pm

Shreveport All Stars
Originally uploaded by trudeau

At least the ghosts of Pete Harris and his staff, family and friends have a place to visit; the site of Freeman's in Allendale has not been destroyed. Today it is called Hospitality House. On Sat, Jan 2, Dan Garner and gang invade the premises - insert memories of Freeman's gumbo here - with guitars, mics and tunes. From noon to 1 pm.

If anyone you know has a cache of photos left over from Freeman's active years, I would be interested in scanning them and producing a Freeman & Harris blog. Former waitress Jessie Singletary and I have often talked about putting those memories online. That's a part of Shreveport history that touched people coast to coast with a distinctly Louisiana vibe. Creating a Freeman's blog might lead to a festival or historic display or who knows what. Email trudeau@earthlink.net.

Be a member or sponsor of the Highland Blues & Jazz Fest; membership meeting Jan 12, 7 pm, Columbia Cafe

Highland Blues & Jazz Fest 09
Originally uploaded by trudeau

If you are a member or sponsor of the Highland Jazz & Blues Fest you are invited to our 2010 General Membership Meeting, says Kenney Koonce. Scheduled for January 12 at Columbia Cafe, the meeting is open to the public. Join us at 7:00 P.M. to learn about the success of the 2009 Highland Jazz & Blues Festival, and our plans for 2010. Members will also elect new members to our board of directors.

You are a voting member if you have completed a membership application and/or served as a sponsor of the 2009 festival. If are not currently a paid member, you may do so at www.highlandjazzandblues.org leading up to the festival. You may also join at the meeting.

If you have any questions regarding our meeting, please contact us at info@highlandjazzandblues.org.

Sci-Port celebrates Tet and New Years at Noon from 10 am to 2 pm Thurs, Dec 31

Tết Việt Nam
Originally uploaded by DulichVietnam360°

As the clock strikes noon in Shreveport-Bossier City, says Eric Gipson, Vietnam will be celebrating Tet Nguyen Dan (the first morning of the first day of the new period). Sci-Port visitors can celebrate the traditions of Tet and then count down to “midnight” with a balloon drop from Sci-Port’s second floor balcony.

Sci-Port: Louisiana’s Science Center will hold that New Years at Noon celebration from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. New Years Eve, Thursday, December 31.

Activities, sponsored by Mrs. Bobbie Cates Hicks, are included with Sci-Port admission and free to Sci-Port members.


Sci-Port: Louisiana's Science Center is a 92,000 square-foot science and entertainment center featuring 290 hands-on exhibits, a Space Center and Space Dome Planetarium, IMAX Dome Theatre, demonstration theater, daily changing programs, gift shop and cafe. Sci-Port is located at 820 Clyde Fant Parkway on the downtown Shreveport Riverfront. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 6 p.m. Sunday. For general information call (318) 424-3466, toll-free (877) 724-7678 or see www.sciport.org.

Review / Me and Orson Welles @ RFC: Clare Danes and Christian McKay vibrant in a flic all about theater

Suzanne Ridgeway y Orson Welles
Originally uploaded by Lord_Henry

The filmmaker Orson Welles (Citizen Kane, etc) roars to life in the Mercury Theater in Manhattan, 1938, in the movie Me and Orson Welles.

The 114-minute film is playing at Robinson Film Center, Shreveport.

Welles was about a year away from producing his radio shocker, War of the Worlds. He was about 2 years away from making movies but that was not apparent. His ability to live large pre-dated his arrival in Hollywood.

Me and Orson Welles is largely about theater and why it is so addicting. It's also about this charmingly bombastic historic figure and about Manhattan in the 1930's.

Christian McKay plays Welles and is well cast. Clare Danes is winning - what an articulate face - as the principal girl. And you can almost see director Riichard Linklater positioning the actors around Zac Ephron in such a way as to make it seem he can act.

Alas, Ephron is principally a holiday candy.

Me and Orson Welles is diverting. But don't place your expectations too high for this Linklater project.