Wednesday, November 30, 2005

Chris Alexander and Lumenz at Java Junction, Sat, Dec 3, 8 pm / photo Greg Pearson

"See what happens when Southern Acoustic Techno Rock Meetz Hip Hop," says David Nelson. Chris Alexander & Lumenz hit the stage again at 8PM Java Junction, Kings Hwy at Alexander St., Sat, Dec 3.

Donations.

Times writer Alex Kent wrote this description of Lumenz in the Sept 23, 05, issue:

In addition to being an MC (rapper and lyricist) and producer (maker of hip-hop music), Lumenz, real name Jazumin Davis, has gained unique life experiences. He's a father and husband. Before moving to Shreveport two weeks ago, he lived in Hawaii where he regularly made and produced music for himself and others. He participated in Honolulu's lively slam poetry scene.

Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso in Reichle film at Artspace, Th, Dec 1, 7 pm


The first feature documentary dealing extensively with Tibetan medicine, one of the most highly developed medical systems, The Knowledge of Healing presents evidence that deserves serious consideration as a supplement to Western medical technology, says the filmmaker.


Knwledge of Healing is presented by film maven Renee Broussard's entity, Zeitgeist Multi-disciplinary Arts Center. It is a non-profit, entirely volunteer, alternative arts venue that has been operating in New Orleans for nearly 19 years. Zeitgeist operates without grants or public funds and prior to Hurricane Katrina provided a full-time venue for film, video, performance, dance, visual arts, creative music, spoken word and theater six nights a week (except holidays), year round at 1724 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. (@ Felicity Street) in the Central City area of New Orleans, says David Nelson of Minicine?.

Appropriate for all audiences.
$5 donation.
673-6535.

Mixing/cutting class by author/dj Todd Souvignier December 8, 5 pm, at Tipitina's Music Office Co-Op

Crescent City Tipitina's rep Todd Souvignier will return to Tipitina's Music Office Co-Op/Shreveport, Th, Dec 8, 5:PM, to conduct a DJ Training Seminar, says Dan Garner.

Learn the world of DJing from the guy who wrote the book on it: Souvignier is author of The World of DJs and the Turntable Culture, LOOPS & GROOVES: The Musician's Guide to Groove Machines and Loop Sequencers, & The Musician's Guide to the Internet, 2nd Edition. "He will show you what it takes to get tech savvy and show your skills!" writes Garner, who emphatically adds, "Bring your favorite CDs! Learn how to Mix, Cut & Scratch!"

Seating: first come, first served basis.
Info: (318) 934-0000

Tuesday, November 29, 2005

Britt Pitre indy movie, Feral, to be screened at Jackson Hall, Centenary College, Th, Dec 1, 7 pm

New Orleans filmmaker and Centenary graduate Britt Pitre, Class of 2002, and co-director Merrill Capps will test screen their independent film, Feral, on Thursday, Dec. 1 at 7 p.m. in Jackson Hall, Room 304 on the Centenary College campus.

Pitre and Capps, Doorway Entertainment, fled to the Atlanta area with clips of their year-long feature film project, Feral, just after Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast region. Feral is now the last film shot entirely in funky St. Bernard Parish, a suburb of New Orleans.

“We were about halfway through post production when we left town. We packed our editing system and the movie’s master originals and came to Atlanta,” Capps said.

A psychological thriller, Feral is about a young couple’s desperate fight for survival, after an accidental murder while searching for their six-year-old daughter. The film questions the fine line between the human and the inhuman, civilization and the wild.

More info: Jefferson Hendricks, Centenary professor of English and film studies, at 318-820-1414 or jhendric@centenary.edu.

DJ Quickie Mart at Fatty Arbuckle's Fri, Dec 2, late night 1 am to 6 am, under the bridge

Message from former Shreveporter Martin Arcenaux, now known as Quickie Mart and based in New Orleans:

Hey All,

First off, be sure to check out this month's issue of URB Magazine Issue # 132, Amy Quick interviewed myself and my crew, and wrote a very touching 3-page article on the rebuilding of NOLA's scene after Katrina.

Got a reall busy Holiday month with some nice events coming up before the New Year. I have feedback coming back to y'all for 12"s everyone has sent out to me recently. Much Love.

-Quickie


Friday, 12/02/2005 - Fatty Arbuckle's
Latenight Friday night, from 1 am-6am on the Shreveport Riverfront under the bridge.

Saturday 12/03/2005 - Invite ONLY , private cast party
Independance Stadium Skybox - Kicking off the filming of Ashton Kutcher, and Kevin Costner's new film "The Gaurdian" being shot in Louisiana.

Thursday, 12/23/2005 09:00 PM - Chicago w/ Brown & Dirtfoot
Shreveport, LA

The annual Brown X-Mas show they have every single year, it's gonna be packed to the walls, and on the upstairs stage (Capacity 2000!) Get there early!

Monday, November 28, 2005

A Christmas Story / East Bank Theater, Dec 1 - 3, 8 - 10, 8 pm, Dec 4 & 11, 2 pm / photo Don Echols

Kids seem to reign in the East Bank Theater's A Christmas Story. The show is directed by the indefatiguable Dick King.

Featured are Tyler Krieg, Mike Martindale, Reagan Cassanova, Mat Latz, Benjamin Maxey, Lisa Daye, Collin Hughes, Cameron Hughes, Tyler Snelling, Elise Birmingham and Erica Gibbs.

* Dec 1, 2 3 and 8, 9, 10 at 8 pm.
* Dec 4 and 11 at 2 pm.
Reservations: 318-741-8310.

Shreveport Metropolitan Ballet's annual Nutcracker Suite, Sat, Dec 3, 7:30 pm, and Sun, Dec 4, 3 pm / photo Don Echols

Clara and her family invite you to begin your holiday season, says the Shreveport Metropolitan Ballet, at a Christmas party that always holds a few surprises. Guest artist Nilas Martin of the New York City Ballet will join the SMB's principal dancers, junior and senior companies and dozens of local children in the Nutcracker Suite.

* Saturday, December 3, 2005, 7:30 PM
* Sunday, December 4, 2005, 3:00 PM
* Shreveport Civic Theatre

Info: 459-1457.

The Sugar Plum Fairy luncheon will be held Sunday December 4, 2005 at 1:30 pm at the Civic Theatre. The SMB's Susan Gross says "this luncheon is much sought after; it is recommended that you call early to reserve your ticket!"

Reans, Weatherly, O'Bryant art party at Bistineau Gallery / Arodasi Studios Sat, Dec 3, 6 pm


TonyReansNudeOrangeHair
Originally uploaded by trudeau.
Painters Tony Reans (see his recent work at Artspace) and Andre Weatherly (see earlier posts on SptBlog for both artists) and painter-sculptor Dennis O Bryant (ditto) will fill diminutive Bistineau Gallery with bright, sexy work this week. Studies of the female figure will be the theme, says Reans, of the show that opens with a reception Saturday night, Dec 3. He adds," I will have five paintings of female nudes in a colorful Fauvist style."

Araodasi Studios (Dorothinia & Bruce Allen) as well as the Back Room Studio (Robin Rothrock) will also be open for perusal of art, refreshments and drama.


* Art party at Bistineau Gallery & Arodasi Studios
* Sat, Dec 3, 6 pm Until
* 327 Market St

Saturday, November 26, 2005

Three women painting: Artspace exhibit features Sue Strickland, Rachel Stuart-Haas & Jerry Wray; reception Th, Dec 1, 4:30 - 7 pm

The cryptic description for this show of 3 exceptional painters is "Personal. Universal. Symbolic." While they have found common ground, each has flung paint differently onto the many canvasses they've crossed.

Jerry Wray has quite a following due to her expertise, her national reputation and longevity of career. Her website, JerryWray.com details a determined and accomplished pathway in art.

Rachel Stuart-Haas has similar credence and credentials, although she has perhaps half Wray's life experience. The Stuart-Haas web site, too, denotes a painter building a national reputation.

Reception at Artspace: Th, Dec 1, 4:30 to 7 pm.
Complimentary parking in the lot beside the Blue Scroll mural, says SRAC.
RSVP: 673-6500.
Info at Artspace: 673-6535.

One more item: "Visitors to the Three Women Painting reception will pass through the Deck the Halls exhibit, an artists & artisans holiday fair at Artspace; it is open through Xmas. There you will find bibelots and art of every description. If you have a bit of extra time to peruse Deck the Halls, you'll be happy," says Artspace asst manager Danielle Reans.

Friday, November 25, 2005

Candlelight concert: the Shreveport Symphony Orchestra at First United Methodist at 7:30 pm, Th, Dec 1

Few things will be more celestial next week than the chamber concert in the First United Methodist offered by the Shreveport Symphony Orchestra. The concert is at 7:30 pm, Th, Dec 1.

To be performed:

Haydn, Miracle Symphony

Wagner, Siegfried Idyll

Leopold Mozart, Toy Symphony

Bizet, Jeux de 'enfants Suite


Tickets and info: 227-8863.

Thursday, November 24, 2005

Road trip to Enoch's Pub, Monroe, LA, for a night of Celtic music poured out by Four Shillings Short

From our long-time friend Enoch Doyle Jeter, proprietor of Enoch's, a storied music bar of S'pt history: "Appearing in the flesh, this Friday, Nov 25, from County Cork, Ireland, via the Bay Area: FOUR SHILLINGS SHORT! Join us in Monroe for a night of on-the-edge Celtic music!"

"And on Sat, Nov 26, from Santa Monica, CA,
our ole pal, BRUCE WHITE! Catch a nite of old time blues," says Doyle.

For a calender of events, etc, see
WWW.ENOCHSIRISHPUB.COM.

Deck the Halls artisans fair at Artspace: Art glass by Melissa Cox, Lafayette Crafts Guild

Melissa Cox shows in several galleries in South Louisiana and has won a spot in a number of juried art expositions throughout the country, says the Deck the Halls bio booklet.

See more of, and purchase, Melissa's work or pieces in metal, paint, ink and beads by a panoply of Louisiana artists this month at Artspace, 710 Texas. Info: 673-6535.

Hip-hop wings over the dance floor at Lil Joes Fri, Nov 25, 9:30 pm, says King Hippo


DUCK SEASON is the droll name for a hip-hop show
featuring King Hippo, Lumenz, Arajay, Davenport, and freestyle mc's Fri, Nov 25, 9:30 pm @ Lil' Joe's (across King's Hwy from Centenary College).

Kinh Hippo says he will be videotaping this show for the DVD to be included with the solo album GET KILLED OR DIE TRYIN'.

Hipp promises mirror-to-mirror music all night from local artists: "Arajay does crazy electroclash and downtempo hip-hop, from what I hear. King Hippo is a punk-hop MC, and will be performing new songs for the first time, including the sequel to "Government Cheese". Lumenz is a freestyle assassin. Speaking of freestyles, it will be going down Friday night." More emphatically, I believe, Hippo adds, " ANYONE WHO LOVES HIP-HOP SHOULD BE TOLD ABOUT THIS EVENT." OK, already. Finally, he recommends, "Please forward the address of SptBlog to all the 'net surfers you know."
My, my.

$5 admissiom, and Chris Jay's favorite hip-hop will reside on the stereo until the show starts. Finally, the loquacious - is there any wonder he's a performer - monarch says, "Encourage MCs you may know to attend...the freestyle session was the highlight of the September show."

Wednesday, November 23, 2005

Holiday quiz / Name that restoration project!

In these two photos you see one of the more extensive renovation and redesign projects to be watched in South Highlands.

Guess that project!

Post, if you're in the know, the name of the notable owner. The hint is that there's a connection - more than simple proximity - to Betty Virginia Park.

Holiday quiz / Name that restoration project!

Two photos illustrating, if poorly, a renovation and expansion project. It's a South Highlands pied-a-terre for a high-profile name recently associated with Shreveport.

If you know the name of the owner, please post and tell us more.

Classical Cinematic Themes lecture with Martin Winkler Fri, Dec. 2, 4 pm, Centenary College


yet more Bloomsbury Classics
Originally uploaded by John Self.

Martin M. Winkler, professor of classics at George Mason University in Fairfax, Va., will give a lecture about classical themes in cinema Friday, Dec. 2 from 4-5 p.m. in Jackson Hall, Room 304 at Centenary College.

Dr. Winkler earned his Ph.D. in 1982 at the University of Southern California. A number of his scholarly projects attest to his interest and expertise in the connections between classics and cinema, including his books Classics and Cinema, Classical Myth and Culture in the Cinema and Troy: From Homer's Iliad to Hollywood Epic and various scholarly articles.

Anyone who has an interest in the classics, film or both is welcome to attend this convocation. It is free and open to the public, says Patty Roberts.

For more information, contact Steve Clark, associate professor of classics and French, at sclark@centenary.edu or 318-869-5257.

Cash walked line at Louisiana Hayride, Municipal Auditorium, Shreveport, says Wessler

On December 3, 1955, fifty years ago, Johnny Cash made his debut on the Louisiana Hayride at Shreveport's Municipal Auditorium, says hotelier Johnny Wessler. He was billed as Johnny Cash and the Tennessee Two. He appeared there as a regular for the next six months before graduating to the Grand Ole Opry in July 1956. Shreveport was the setting where he started a career that would dominate the music charts for the next 50 years.

Other regular performers of the Louisiana Hayride at the time were, Elvis Presley, Johnny Horton, David Houston and Billy Walker. Former stars included Hank WIlliams, Sr., Jim Reeves, Webb Pierce and Faron Young, just to name a few.

To celebrate this historic date in music history, The Friends of the Municipal Auditorium will give free admission to "The Stage of Stars Museum" and tours of the building from 11 AM till 4 PM on December 3, 2005 to everyone with a ticket stub from the movie "Walk the Line."

Normal tour hours are, Wednesday through Saturday from 11 AM till 4 PM and Sunday from ! PM till 4 PM. Cost is a $2.00 donation. Guided tours last about an hour.

For more information, contact Johnny Wessler at 318-220-9434

Tuesday, November 22, 2005

Deck the Halls artisan fair at Artspace through Xmas; 673-6535

Caitlyn Aamodt, Artspace staff, displays work by popular artist Penne Mobley. "The artists who come to mind as having sold a lot this weekend at the Deck the Halls opening," said SRAC's Sharon Bennett, "include Penne Mobley, Jane Heggen and Ray Holt."

A rich array of art and craft await at Artspace during its first holiday artisan and artist fair, called Deck the Halls, says assistant manager Danielle Reans.

Deck the Halls artists such as Bill Gingles, Rachel Stuart-Haas, Sam Rigling and Talbot Hopkins, among others, will be featured on SptBlog the next few days.

Mon - Wed: 9 to 2 (ordinarily)
Th - Sat: 9 to 9 (open this weekend)
673-6535

Holiday visions: 800 African-American Santa Claus figures at Southern Museum of Art, Shreveport, 610 Texas St, 318.678.4631

Dr. Daryl Mitchell (see SptFaces) has a collection of some 800 African-American representations of Saint Nicholas, aka Santa.

The warm rooms of the city's best-kept secret, Southern Museum of Art, Shreveport (SUMAS), 610 Texas, are filled with his collection during the holiday season.

The variety and multiplicity of images in the collection are amusing and heart-warming. If you plan to visit call Carolyn Coatney, SUMAS coordinator, for hours. Info: 318.678.4631.

In fact, if you go to Texas St you'll find great sources for art at Artspace (710 Texas), Hardman's Art Supplies and gallery (next door to Artspace), Tipitina's Music Office Co-op (also next door to Artspace) and SUMAS.

Art from the Male Perspective: an exhibit at Bistineau Gallery and Arodasi Studios; reception Sat, Dec 3, 6 pm until

"Join us for a holiday bash," says Bistineau Gallery owner Rebecca Hudsmith. The Lafayette-based attorney has collected a group of male artists in a show that is somewhat of a rejoinder to her successful women's show (Visions of the Feminine) of the fall.

Painters Tony Reans (see his recent work at Artspace) and Andre Weatherly (see earlier posts on SptBlog for both artists) and painter-sculptor Dennis O Bryant (ditto) will fill the diminutive gallery with bright work.

Adjacent to Bistineau is Dorothinia's Arodasi Studios, a seductive series of rooms that function as dance and yoga center as well as a gallery. There you will enjoy work by Alan Dyson, Michael Harold (both Multi-Disciplinary Felowship winners), Michael G Moore, David Nelson and Andy Sheehee. Additionally, there will be work by Dorothinia's Arodasi production partner, Bruce Allen.

The holiday art party will spill across some of the city's most intriguing spaces and promises "water, wine and chocolate."

* Art party at Bistineau Gallery & Arodasi Studios
* Sat, Dec 3, 6 pm until
* 327 Market St

Sunday, November 20, 2005

New Orleans update: Restaurant Reopenings via the New York Times' A City Rebuilds section

NY Times.com has a Travel section entitled New Orleans Watch / A City Rebuilds. There you will find stories that will break your heart and stories that may move you to action. Under the recent Restaurant Reopenings section is a listing and an article that may get you on the road to support the Crescent City's tourism rebirth, despite the widespread devastation to be encountered.

Restaurant Reopenings / Kim Severson

Susan Spicer is finally back in the kitchen at Bayona.

Ms. Spicer, whose name often tops the list of New Orleans best chefs, had been spending time with her husband and children in Jackson, Miss., taking care of some medical issues, tracking down cooks and waiters who were evacuated and taking the temperature of the recuperating New Orleans business environment.

On Friday, Nov. 18, she reopened the French Quarter restaurant that for many national food critics has become the best example of modern New Orleans cooking.

"There's this underlying sense of it being an important thing to do, just in terms of trying to let people know this part of the culture is ongoing," she said. "Plus, it is really heartening for people to get out and see more businesses open and for locals to network."

Without tourists, New Orleans is losing more than $15 million a day in direct revenue, according to the governor's office. At Bayona, most of the phone numbers of guests who made reservations for opening night were local. It has had no calls from people staying in downtown hotels.

"What I've noticed is that we had a great push to get back and get rebuilt, but now we're at status quo for the moment," said Ms. Spicer's business partner, Regina Keever.

Once the holidays are over, restaurants will see more of an influx of both tourists and more residents, she said. Until then, the city's restaurants will largely be about connecting people who already live in New Orleans with each other.

This week, health officials said 54 percent of the retail food businesses in Jefferson Parish and 17 percent of those in Orleans Parish have been recertified. Eliminating fast-food restaurants, national chains and coffee houses, that translates to about 320 restaurants operating in the New Orleans area, according to Tom Fitzmorris, a local restaurant personality who is keeping a daily count on his blog at www.nomenu.com.

Ms. Spicer said that she did not expect those numbers to jump much before the Christmas holiday, but that in the meantime local residents were being treated to an abundance of good local seafood. She just bought 40 pounds of Gulf shrimp and some local oysters, too.

"The crab is running real good right now so a I put a crab salad on the menu," she said. "If people are eating in New Orleans right now, they're getting some great stuff."


More updates: Todd Price, New Orleans food critic and blogger at A Frolic of My Own (see my blogroll) recommends MetroBlogNewOrleans.

Another NYTimes Crescent City update entitled Seeing Life Outside New Orleans Alters Life Inside It is stimulating. Two points made in the article: 1) New Orleanians are statistically people who grew up there and who probably didn't know much about life elsewhere. 2) Now that they've lived in Lafayette and Houston they've seen cities not totally saddled with corruption and ill schools. 3) People might begin to demand changes from the city's rulers. See the article at Seeing Life Outside New Orleans Alters ....

Saturday, November 19, 2005

The flute: soloist Sally Horak Hundemer with the Shreveport Symphony Orchestra, Sat, Nov 19, 7:30 pm, Civic Theater


musician in jodhpur's palace
Originally uploaded by phitar.
Copland, Diamond, Barber and Hanson are the lyrical 20th century composers to be enjoyed Sat, Nov 19, at the SSO's performance. There are 2 soloists: singer Melanie Russell (see earlier SptBlog post) and, in the Hanson Serenade for Solo Flute, Sally Horak Hundemer.

Sally has been principal flutist of the Shreveport Symphony since 1989. Her last appearance as a soloist with the orchestra was in 2004 as the Pied Piper in John Corigliano’s The Pied Piper Fantasy. An active performer in the Shreveport area, Ms. Horak Hundemer is principal flutist of the Longview and Marshall Symphonies, and a member of the Shreveport Symphony Woodwind Quintet, the Baroque Artists of Shreveport, the New Friends Chamber Players, the Shreveport Summer Music Festival and the Opera Longview orchestra.

She holds a Bachelor of Music Degree in Flute Performance from the Cleveland Institute of Music. Her orchestral career has taken her to the San Francisco Bay area, Minneapolis (her hometown), Guadalajara, Mexico City, and Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico. She has also participated in the Classical Music Seminar in Eisenstadt, Austria, the Superior String Alliance in upper Michigan, and the Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music in Santa Cruz, California.

Ms. Horak Hundemer is on the adjunct faculty of Centenary College and was the recipient of the Shreveport Regional Arts Council’s Artist Fellowship in Music for the year 2000. She is married to hornist/composer Tom Hundemer, and they have two children and two cats.

See more at Shreveportsymphony.com.

Saturdays at Artspace make-and-take kids' art schedule: 10:30 til noon and 2:30 to 4 pm


Deck the Halls / Artspace
Originally uploaded by trudeau.

Every Saturday at artspace: fun for the family, promises Pam Atchison. Enjoy make-and-take
art projects with professional artists from 10:30 am - 12:00 am and 2:30 pm - 4:00 pm. Admission: $5 per person.

Beginning November 19, enjoy
sandwiches, soups and salads and a special kids' menu at the cafe at artspace, says Danielle Reans.

What's on the menu for Thanksgiving? the Sci-Port alligator wrapped in crepes, with a side of crawfish

During the break, SciPort's daily programs, free with Sci-Port admission, will include:

Sat, Nov 19 and Sun, Nov 20
Animals of Louisiana – 2 p.m.
Pet animals indigenous to Louisiana, including an alligator and a speckled king snake.

Mon, Nov 21
Crawfish Dissection – 2 p.m.
Learn about the inner workings of the crawfish, the state’s most delectable crustacean.
Tues, Nov 22
Au Real – 2 p.m.
Learn the origins of the Spanish influence in Louisiana, with an emphasis on the contributions made by the explorers searching for gold. Also, use science to determine if a golden ring is real or fake.

Wed, Nov 23
Burial Mounds of Louisiana – 2 p.m.
Jeff Girard of the State Division of Archaeology will discuss the artifacts, history, and culture of the Native Americans who constructed the massive earthworks in Louisiana and throughout the Mississippi River Delta. Girard will highlight the state’s ancient burial mounts that date back to 4,000 B.C.

Fri, Nov 25
French Kitchen Chemistry? Making Crepes! — 2 p.m.
Make French pancakes (crepes) and discover the science used in the kitchen.

Sat, Nov 26
Dancing…Louisiana Style – 2 p.m.
The acclaimed Billy and Bobbye Keyes Cajun Dance Group will perform at Sci-Port, allowing visitors to partake in distinctively Cajun entertainment.

Sun, Nov 27
Alligator Antics – 2:30 p.m.
Learn about the lifestyle and habits of one of Louisiana’s most well-known and misunderstood animals.

Thursday, November 17, 2005

Carol Anglin dancers join Moscow Ballet at Strand Th, Nov 17, 7:30 pm

Carol Anglin's dancers perform with the cast of the Moscow Ballet tonight at the Strand Theater. Carol writes "The Moscow Ballet has performed in Shreveport seven times since 1997. Carol Anglin Dancenter students and members of Louisiana Dance Theatre have performed in all seven performances."

"The performance features 50+ professional dancers from Russia and 56 local dancers. Many of the Russian dancers are international gold medalists! Those interested in attending should contact the Strand Theatre box office. It's a great show - not to be missed - and ends promptly at 9:30 pm."

"The Strand is almost sold-out, but remember, there are no bad seats at the Strand. How wonderful that dance is finally starting to "sell-out" in Shreveport! Ordinarily, even Nutcrackers don't sell out here."

Strand box office: (318) 226-8555 or toll-free at (800) 313-6373. Or see Thestrandtheater.com.

Tuesday, November 15, 2005

Shreveport Symphony Orchestra concert Sat, Nov 19, 7:30 pm, Civic Theater

The Shreveport Symphony Orchestra will perform Copland, Diamond, Barber and Hanson at 7:30 pm Saturday, Nov 19, at the Shreveport Civic Theatre, 600 Clyde Fant Parkway, says SSO Manager Janice Nelson. Featured soloists are singer Melanie Russell and flautist Sally Horak Hundemer.

* Symphony box office: (318) 227-TUNE (8863), 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
* Box office opens at noon on concert days at the Civic Theatre.

* Limited valet parking is available at $3.
* A free shuttle will depart one time from Uptown Shopping Center at 6:15 p.m.
* A second free shuttle will depart from the AmSouth Bank parking garage located on the corner of Milam and Market Streets at 5:30 p.m.
* Both shuttles will continue to make pickups at the AmSouth garage every 10 minutes until concert time.

* A free pre-concert lecture will be held in the front of the Civic Theatre beginning at 6:30 pm on the evening of the concert. Please see more at Shreveportsymphony.com.


Tickets: $10, $20, $30 & $36 - $5 for students.


Menus & Music, a pre-concert dinner, will be held at the Cambridge Club of Shreveport with a portion of the proceeds to benefit the SSO. A pre-fixed price of $50 per person includes a salad, choice of entrée, dessert, coffee or tea and one glass of wine. Reservations for a 5:00, 5:30, or 6:00 pm seating need to be made by 12:00 noon, Thursday, November 17 by calling 227-TUNE (8863).

What to do: Thanksgiving Break Artspace Day Camp Mon, Nov 22 - Wed, Nov 24


Blake05
Originally uploaded by trudeau.
Gucci clay. Teledyne acrylics. Digital puffs of smoke. Holy moly, Batman; it's a downtown art camp in the city's most gorgeous historic building, Artspace, 710 Texas.

The platoon will encamp Monday, Nov 22, through Wed, Nov 24, 2005, from 9 am til 12:30 pm.

The regimen is make-and-take holiday art
projects - between edible snacks - taught by professional artists.

The tariff is $30 per child for one morning, $75 per child for all three mornings. Call 673-6535.

New sculpture from Michael G Moore: GodSpeak 200502, mixed media

Michael G Moore has shown a lot of paintings this past year. His work has been shown on Louisiana Public Broadcasting, he has presented a one-man show in Breaux Bridge, at Cafe des Amis, and he has exhibited at Artspace.

Moore is also a long-time sculptor. His newest piece, Godspeak 200502, is a lean (78" x15x15") signpost that is assymetric but well-finished. It resembles a beautiful cabinet. It looks Chinese. There is a kinship to the Buddhist pagoda. Yet there is a pyramidal cap evokes the obelisk. It is reminiscent of Clyde Connell's work without seeming directly derivative.

Moore responds, "the Clyde Connell influence is there...I love her work." On the background of his sculpture: "I don't think I will be doing any more with so many religious images. I am getting ready to start another one, but more spiritual without actually having crosses--it will not be titled "Godspeak". I have been working on the "Godspeak" series for many years. I started in 1991, and there are a lot of them out there. Every once in a while I like to do a new version...that is what this one is."

Sunday, November 13, 2005

Movies & Moonbeams series debuts in Betty Virginia Park, draws audience of some 200

The Robinson Film Center, in partnership with Shreveport Green and Shreveport Public Assembly and Recreation (SPAR), presented the first of its Movies & Moonbeams series on a 4-story inflatable screen in Betty Virginia Park on Sunday evening.

Some 200 people brought their coolers, folding chairs and children to enjoy the projection, despite the humidity. The sound and picture were clear and the crowd seemed rapt, perhaps enchanted by the unusual nature of the showing.

Author Clyde Edgerton to read at Caddo Magnet High School Th, Nov 17, 6:30 pm, Performing Arts Center / Mary Jane Malone Lecture Series

Clyde Edgerton, novelist whose work includes Walking Across Egypt, will read from his work and chat with the audience at Caddo Magnet High School this week. The Mary Jane Malone Lecture Series brings notable authors (Edward Albee, Sylvia Nasar, etc.) to Caddo Magnet each year for the enrichment of students and teachers' literary lives. The Malone Series also funds Edgerton's talk with the public in the PAC at 6:30 pm, Th, Nov 17.

An excerpt from his bio:

Edgerton’s decision to be a serious writer was a very deliberate one, but somewhat of a surprise even to him. He had been keeping a journal, jotting down ideas, feelings, characters, and events on paper. He planned to use this resource in case he continued to write. In May 1978, the Edgertons watched Welty read one of her stories on public television. That night he wrote in his journal: "May 14, 1978—Tomorrow, May 15, 1978—I would like to start being a writer." That was the beginning of a career that has resulted in the creation of seven novels: Raney, Walking Across Egypt, The Floatplane Notebooks, Killer Diller, In Memory of Junior, Redeye, and Where Trouble Sleeps. Their critical reception led to his receiving a Guggenheim Fellowship, a Lyndhurst Fellowship, [and] the North Carolina Award for Literature, a Distinguished Alumni Award from University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Education Department, and five notable book awards from the New York Times. Because of his ability to bring his literature to life in readings, he continues to be very much in demand as a speaker and a reader of his own fiction.

More at clydeedgerton.com.

CMHS: 221-2501 and cmhs.com.

Finding humor in the midst of muddy disaster: the Creole Tomato

At The Creole Tomato the legend is "If you ain't from here, you won't get it," but much of the satire is broad enough to give anyone a belly laugh. My favorite story is "N.O. Public School Board Reports No Drop in Attendance."

Todd Price, author of A Frolic of My Own and restaurant critic for Gambit Weekly (he and his wife evacuated to Dallas) calls the Creole Tomato a "Yat version of the Onion."
Price's blog continues to provide thoughtful coverage and photos of the Crescent City - see coverage of Voodoo Fest by following his photo link - though he's in exile.

Saturday, November 12, 2005

Cary Cooper at Fairfield Studios on Sun, Nov 20, 7 pm

Cary Cooper plays Fairfield Studios on Sun, Nov 20, at 7 pm.

Gee whiz; this is the kind of press release I like. For the rest of the details please see the excellent poster.

Quickest post of the week. Thanks, Dana.

Friday, November 11, 2005

Sweet Nadines: harmonies at Java Junction Sat, Nov 12, 8 pm

"While sipping gourmet coffee at one of the newest cafes in town - Java Junction - enjoy the music and smoke-free environment," says Java Junction owner / chef Lee Bamberg. "These are all ages shows," adds Bamberg's friend, Matthew Morris.

Having enjoyed a Chicken Alexander sandwich last week - with a side of homemade pasta salad - I can vouch for the deliciousness of the food. And the acoustics are terrific.

Luke Johnson
Friday, Nov 11
8 - 11 p.m.
No Cover

Sweet Nadines
Saturday, Nov 12
8 - 11 p.m.
$5 Cover.
Corner of King's Hwy and Alexander.
Java Junction: 865-9313.

Wednesday, November 09, 2005

Xmas shopping at Artspace: Deck the Halls art and tschotskes from Nov 19 to Dec 30


Deck the Halls is an Artisans Holiday Market to be held Nov 19 - Dec 30 at artspace, 710 Texas Street, in the West Edge Arts District, downtown Shreveport, says Spt Regional Arts Council's Kara Bohannon.

"We're presenting painting. jewelry, sculpture, photography (work by Talbot Hopkins in the illustration), music, literary works and
more."

"Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights throughout Deck the Halls, programming includes live entertainment and holiday movies as well as workshops and make-and-take holiday art projects for the family - pardon me, the Whole Family," said Bohannon.
Details: 673-6535.

For those who lunch, Artspace would like to host Deck the Halls shopping parties. Groups of 10 or more will be treated to a 10% discount on all artwork - with free gift wrapping. Consume finger food and eggnog while eyeing the cash bar, where the holiday atmosphere will be truly regnant.

Book my party: 673-6508.

Sunday, November 06, 2005

Four paintings of Karen / new work by Dennis O Bryant

Dennis O Bryant, former Shreveporter who now paints from his base in a historic house in Marshall, TX, has a completed a new series. The acrylics are called Four Paintings of Karen.

SptBlog is delighted to run fresh work by area artists. If you've just finished a piece and would like it to be seen in public, send me a photo and bio, please.

See more work by O Bryant at denoart.com.

Lest anyone forget: missing the Croissant City's crescent rolls & coffee


PJ's Magazine
Originally uploaded by Nuke La Louche.
From the oak limb debris - unfetched - to the damaged roofline, to the essential Euro coziness of the historic architecture of Magazine Street . . .

we miss New Orleans.

People of imagination and possessed of the entrepreneurial sense that can make her operable again, please consider being part of her rebirth.

Saturday, November 05, 2005

Port Belly Project & friends at Artspace, Fr, Nov 11, 8 pm

Beeba, aka Rebecca Nesbitt, and Kahina, aka Kathy Fontaine, are the wittily-named Port Belly Project. "We are Shreveport's only folk and tribal fusion dance duo," says Nesbitt. "Our mission is to connect in the Spirit of the Dance while entertaining with tasteful experimental and emerging dance styles."

Having worked with them over several years I can tell you they are highly rehearsed, deeply commmitted to the dance, and gorgeous. Their show at Artspace Fri, Nov 11, at 8 pm is sure to be an enjoyable evening. The show is entitled "A journey through time and space exploring the roots of oriental dance."

$5.
All ages.
Please see portbellyproject.com.

Highland Blues & Jazz Fest in Columbia Park noon to 6 pm, Sat, Nov 12

"The Bluebirds with singer Miki Honeycutt, A.J. Cascio and the Two Tone Blues Band, Professor Pork Chop, Dan Sanchez & the Kings of Pleasure – and many more - on two stages!" Thus says Highland Area Partnership's Bob Marak of the coming Highland Jazz and Blues Fest.

In its second year the fest has a wide network of sponsors (Nelson Cameron, Bob Pack n Mail King, Neil Johnson, Brookshires #78, etc, etc), features local vendors and reminds you of the marvelous spirit that makes historic Highland neighborhood a cool place to live.


Marak adds, "Bring lawnchairs and a jacket." And he's added the ineffable Dorothy Prime as well as the reborn Velvet Swivel Rockers to the bill.

Wednesday, November 02, 2005

Lip Service Trio at Java Junction Sat, Nov 5, 8 pm


Guitar Trio relaxing on Couch
Originally uploaded by joaobambu.
Early show, no smoking, all ages, female trio harmonies at sane volumes, a light supper: that's Lip Service at Java Junction. The coffee shop and restaurant called Java Junction is across from Centenary College at the corner of King's Hwy and Alexander St.

Music begins at 8 pm Sat, Nov 5, says Lip keyboardist Sandra Odom. Her partners are guitarist-bassist Barbara Jarrell and percussionist Cookie Garner.

Info: 865-9313. Say hello to Java Junction hosts Lee and Sarah Bamburg.

Echizen ceramics exhibit at Meadows Museum opens Sat, Nov 12

The utilitarian pottery produced by families located in the Fukui prefecture a few miles from the coast of the Sea of Japan is featured in this show, A Glimpse into Echizen Ceramics. The production of Echizen ceramics has been unbroken for 800 years. The craft has been handed down within the Echizen families from generation to generation, says Meadows Museum.

On the museum calendar:
Saturday, Nov. 12, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Reception featuring Japanese delicacies, a silent auction of Japanese items, a special performance by the Japanese dancers from the Multicultural Center of Shreveport, taiko drumming and the making of o-cha (Japanese tea); free for museum members, $10 fee for non-members
Sunday, Nov. 13, 2-3 p.m.
"Bonsai, the Art of the Potted Tree" lecture with Robert Specian; Japanese refreshments
Saturday, Nov. 26, 1-4 p.m.
Japanese Family Day Celebration on the museum grounds featuring family raku and origami projects, tanabata making, o-mochi and tea ceremony, taiko drumming and Japanese refreshments

Info: 869-5040.

Tuesday, November 01, 2005

Wildebeest at MLP Nov 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12 at 8 pm

Wildebeest is an experimental play created by Stanton Dossett III and developed in conjunction with students at Centenary College, according to the Times. Movement direction is by artist/choreographer Dorothinia Kristin Hanna. Set and light design is by Don Hooper, chair of the Theatre and Dance Department at Centenary. Stage manager is Angie Rosenkrans.

Theatre major cast members include Tim Broderick Jr. of Bossier City, La., as the father; Jenni Loer of San Antonio, Texas, as the mother; and Nathan Wasson of Marshall, Texas, as the guest. Other Centenary students include Mindy Diez of Gonzales, La., as the daughter and Allan Jogiel of Dallas, Texas, as the son.

Wildebeest will be performed at Marjorie Lyons Playhouse Nov 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, and 12 at 8 pm. There is a 2 pm show on Nov 6.

Dossett is a musician (his acclaimed blues trio is called JrIII) and writer. Among his considerable performances in this area were dramatic monologues staged with artist Bruce Allen during the Neon Saturday Night series.

In one performance he spoke from atop a building while walking on a treadmill dressed in his trademark black suit. In another exhibit he spoke from atop a perch - a bicycle, I believe - which was cantilevered into the branches of a tree in the Texas St library plaza.

MLP: 869-5242.

Film and TV types: check out filmind.meetup.com/3 and the meet at BPCC Tues, Nov 1, 7 pm

"If your professional background is in acting or film and television production, and you live in the Shreveport area, you should really join the “Louisiana Produces” group at www.meetup.com as soon as possible, " says Chris Jay, Robinson Film Center. "Once a month, they host a United Film Industry Meetup Day, and for the last two months that event has been hosted in Shreveport-Bossier. It’s a great opportunity to get the scoop on who’s hiring, what productions are in town, and meet others who are interested in seeing this industry grow in our community. The next Meetup Day event happens to be tonight. Join the group to get details."

Also see more on film industry personalities Lynn Yeldell and George Brower and Louisiana Produces! at Louisiana Produces!.


Meeting's at BPCC; find the Telecommunications Dept, 7 pm.