Sunday, November 30, 2008

Steve Howell's new CD, My Mind gets to Ramblin', topping the Blues Roots charts

This weeks' Roots Blues Charts at Roots Music Report show
Steve Howell's "My Mind Gets to Ramblin'" at number 7, says musicologist Bruce Flett. Howell's competition includes the top names in blues, including Taj Mahal, B B King, Elvin Bishop, Buddy Guy, Freddie King and Stevie Ray Vaughan (re-issues).

Howell's new CD is his second release on Out of the Past Music and focuses on his mastery of the under-appreciated American Music Genre of Acoustic Country Blues, says Flett.

Steve is now booking tour dates for 2009, notes Flett. House Concerts, coffeehouses, pubs, 'listening rooms' and festivals are his specialty. Solo acoustic guitar with vocals or with his 3 piece band, his home of Marshall, Texas, can indeed be proud of Howell.

"Ramblin'" was recorded, mixed, and mastered at Sandbox Studios in Shreveport. Among the musicians that played on the recording: Musicians Hall of Fame member Joe Osborn on bass guitar and nationally known guitarist/singer/songwriter Buddy Flett.

www.stevehowell.ws
www.myspace.com/stevehowellmusic

The art of flinging oneself through the air in style: Salsa Gala and auditions Dec 5, 6 at the Capri Theater


Salsa
Originally uploaded by trudeau
"Would you like to see World Class Salsa Dancers Competing and auditioning for a spot on the next Viva La Salsa Show Tour?" asks Michael Majesty.

"Do you enjoy watching So You Think You Can Dance??
If so, you will love this event! Held at the newly restored and beautiful Capri Theatre, this event will surely kick off your Christmas celebration with excitement!"

Mjesty says, call 318.779.1873 to reserve your tickets right now and pay through the phone with a major credit card or pay at your own comfort on-line securely through paypal. Simply visit:
http://www.vivalasalsashow.com/announcement111008.html
After You register, we will add your name to our Pre-Paid List.
Note: All Sales are final, no refunds! Also see tickets at
www.salsashreveport.com

Saturday, November 29, 2008

Auction and show at Actor's Cafe will benefit Miss Mary Arnold, Shreveport, on Tues, Dec 9

Local musicians will hold a benefit, says Kern Courtney, at Actor’s CafĂ© on Tues, Dec 9, 7pm, to help offset the costs of cancer treatments for Ms. Mary Arnold, a waitress of Murrell’s Grill in Shreveport.

Known as “Miss Mary” to countless college students, musicians, and other night owls, Ms. Arnold has been serving evening breakfast to patrons for 32+ years. For the past few months, she has been battling cancer without any health insurance in sight.

Fans of Ms. Mary have rallied together to present an art auction and an outstanding night of music, says Chris Alexander. The suggested donation is $10.

The line-up has expanded, but be aware that times are estimated and subject to change:

7pm Chuck Kesilman
7:35pm Danny Wilder
8:10pm Buddy Flett
8:45pm Romulus Remus
9:20pm Mr. Christopher
9:55pm AJ Haynes
10:30 The Peekers
11:20pm Dirtfoot
12:30am Music Jam

318-820-8758
kernc77@hotmail.com

What to do with the SSO in the lurch: Elizabeth O'Bannon creates chamber music series at First United Methodist Bossier; opening concert Sun, Dec 21, 3 pm

First United Methodist Church Bossier announces a new chamber music series “Bossier Jam ‘n Bread,” sponsored by FUMC and funded through grants from the Louisiana Division of the Arts and the Bossier Arts Council.

Ms. Elizabeth O’Bannon, professional musician and teacher for Bossier schools, wrote the grant for FUMC and is artistic director for the series. She has been concertmaster for the Shreveport Symphony Orchestra.

The three pairs of concerts will feature area professional artists in educational “preview” concerts aimed at young and new audience members, and Sunday chamber concerts at FUMC Bossier. The programs will feature traditional chamber works as well as music by local composers and “fun-fare.”

The opening concert “The Spirit of Christmas Brassed,” with the I-49 Brass Quintet, will be on December 21 at 3 p.m. The FUMC Bossier is at 204 John Wesley Blvd.

Members of the quintet are Rick Rowell and Michael Scarlato, trumpets; Thomas Hundemer, french horn; Michael Davidson, trombone; and J. Mark Thompson, bass trombone. Rowell and Hundemer will also perform an educational preview for Bossier band students on December 12.

Future Sunday concert dates are February 8, 2009, at 3 pm (Red River Winds) and May 16th, (Strings Attached). All concerts are free to the public.

Supported in part by a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts,
Office of Cultural Development, Department of Culture, Recreation & Tourism, in cooperation with the Louisiana State Arts Council.
Funding has also been provided by the National Endowment for the Arts, a Federal Agency.

Photo by O-Bannon's daughter, Megan Poling.

Austin-based artist-actor Arthur Simone showing work at Biscotti's, Lewis Gifts, Youree Drive


Arthur Simone, Austin
Originally uploaded by trudeau
Showing paintings at Biscotti's. part of Lewis Gifts, is an Austin artist-actor, Arthur Simone.

Simone is an improvisational actor, abstract expressionist artist and advocate of the culture of spontaneity, says Shreveporter Lucienne Simon, his mother.

His artwork has been shown at galleries such as Chicago's Echo Gallery and art festivals such as Around the Coyote and the East Austin Studio Tour. Arthur's artwork has been twice a nominated finalist for the prestigious Hunting Art Prize.

A graduate of Oberlin College and a veteran of the Chicago stage with Suspicious Clowns and Moving Dock Theatre, he is currently a co-founder of Austin's improv powerhouse ColdTowne, where he teaches sketch, improv, and acting.

On the screen, Arthur has starred in Jigsaw, The Evil One, A&E's Faith of My Fathers, Big Momma's House 2, and has been featured on the series Friday Night Lights. In 2007, he won the O'Henry Pun-Off World Championships, Austin's regional Air Guitar Championship, and most recently the Alamo Drafthouse's Air Sex World Championship. He's also been featured in the May 2008 issue of Austin Monthly.


www.lewisgifts.com
5807 Youree Dr
Shreveport, LA 71105
(318) 868-6700

Friday, November 28, 2008

Mega shark by Chris Opp at La Downs ready to consume Christmas in the Sky attendees on Dec 13, 7 pm, to 2 am


Chris Opp
Originally uploaded by trudeau
"The eyes have strobes behind the red turn signal covers," says artist Chris Opp of the giant swimming raptor he has created for the biennial arts benefit called Christmas in the Sky.

"Last Friday I was filmed with the Shark in the back of my open trailer, traveling down the road to Harrah's Racetrack, where the Shark is "swimming with the Fish," wrote the momentary master of local media.

"This event is on December 13, and SRAC puts this fund raiser together every two years, to put money back into the Community Art programs. The Shark with go up for auction. That's how they raise money, businesses give SRAC items to auction. American Airlines donates 10 fly away packages."

See tickets for Christmas in the Sky at Shrevearts.org.

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Review: The Clean House at LSUS Black Box Theater offered domestic comedy, ethereal luminosity and an effective young cast

How strong is the new program at LSUS being directed by Robert Alford, Mary Jarzabek and guest director Pruitt Vince? Is the new Black Box Theater an effective room? And what about the ensemble of drama grads and undergrads being gathered by Alford into a sort of ensemble?

The Clean House was a good testing ground for these questions. Written by Sarah Ruhl, who won a MacArthur Fellowship in '06, it is a romantic comedy about a physician who cannot convince her depressed Brazilian maid to clean her house. Owing to its flights of magical rabbitry, it is not an entirely orthodox comedy.

We saw it on the last Sat of its run and in the first act laughed frequently at the domestic insights and ribaldry (actress Kelly Mills is contemplating the possible owner of the black briefs in the laundry photo above). The interaction between the tightly-coiled Emily Kirkland, playing a doctor, and the oscillating Kelly Mills, the yin-yang sister, was rich. Kirkland whisked, Mills squirreled. Rachael Magill played the fractious maid. Called to fill in at the last minute, Magill anchored the sometimes neutronic ensemble.

Jennifer Lynn Warren performed two roles but became the earth mother goddess of the contemplative second act. The house turned inward in act two, as James Palmer, playing Kirkland's fractal husband, found a soul mate - which was not, alas, his wife. Then the new woman, played with growing luminosity by Warren, is diagnosed with cancer.

Ruhl melds the competing gang into a coherent mass of souls. So did the young actors seem to find a meeting of the energies. While the second act meandered (the performance opened at 8:10, took one intermission, and closed at 10:40 pm), its tone was convincingly ethereal.

The seats were comfortable and the sound and lights were straight in the Black Box Theater. Vince worked the young cast effectively. Each of the actors seemed to us to find their turf.

Bodes well for the Feb production of a play written by Californian Julia Edwards called Family Planning. Edwards will give 3 symposia on her play and a workshop on play writing, too. See more at the new LSUS Theater web site.

Shreveport Little Theater box office open for Rabbit Hole, Dec 5 - 14, performances at MLP

Rabbit Hole, the 07 winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, by David Lindsay-Abaire, is the Shreveport Little Theater play for December, says Robert Darrow.

The play focuses on a couple, Becca and Howie, trying to cope with the death of their only child, a four-year-old, in an auto accident, while Becca’s well-meaning mom and off-kilter sister attempt to lift their spirits (and deal with their own problems), each in her own inimitable way. The couple's lives are further complicated, says Wikipedia, when the young driver who killed their son contacts them seeking closure.

SLT: (318)424-4439
SLT Special Events Hotline (318)673-4758
Office: 12-4 pm, M-F

Performances: Marjorie Lyons Playhouse, Centenary College Campus,
corner of Wilkinson & Woodlawn.

Movie review: Dylan touched the best and brightest at the Newport Folk Festival, '63 to '65


Bob Dylan
Originally uploaded by Robinson Film Center
Just before long hair, beards and flowing cotton blouses became the mode, well-born young Americans in madras shirts and khaki shorts pondered the civil rights movement and watched black storytellers like the Rev Gary Davis at the Newport Folk Festival.

Prosperous, well-educated young America was a hungry crowd. They sensed that the lifestyle being offered them by their parents was ridiculously provincial.

Amidst them walked young Bob Dylan, in his Pete Seeger-style work shirt and lace-up shoes. He was the essence of inquiring, conscience-driven ("Blowin in the Wind") young America. He had a gift for imagery ("Hey, Mr Tambourine Man") and storytelling. He was an entertainer via Woodie Guthrie and other authentic visionaries.

In the documentary Bob Dylan at the Newport Folk Festival you can almost smell the yearning of handsome young East coast Americans for an alternative to pop culture. They sought a way to protest racial inhumanity and war and to do it poetically.

For them, Dylan was a magician.

In the Newport Folk Fest documentary cameras are tightly trained upon him. His gifts of humor, mesmerizing simplicity and elegant word play are apparent.

Dylan became the pied piper. The Newport audience, looking like 3000 young cousins of JFK, were an army primed for a quest. And they almost uncontrollably devoured Dylan.

A highly recommendable piece of history and a meditation upon the role of the bard, this 83-minute movie is known as "The Other Side of the Mirror: Bob Dylan Live at the Newport Folk Festival, 1963 - 1965."

Monday, November 24, 2008

At the RFC: Bob Dylan at the Newport Folk Festival, Mon, Nov 24, 7:30 pm, downtown Shreveport

The Robinson Film Center's NOVEMBER ROCKS series, says Chris Jay, concludes with a one-night only presentation of Bob Dylan's legendary performances at the Newport Folk Festival, 1963-1965, presented in HD video and an all-new 5.1 digital surround soundtrack.

The presentation is literally ONLY the three performances, as well as additional performances by Johnny Cash and Joan Baez - less a documentary film than a straight-forward recording of three historic performances.

Includes the controversial electric guitar performances from 1965.

Suite Sounds at Artspace on Thursdays twice a month in '09; musicians apply to Julia Foley

Suite Sounds @ Artspace

Featuring the best local and regional musicians, says Julia Foley, Two nights each month!

Accepting applications now for performances in January through April -- for all types of music from Blues, to Rock, to Country, to R&B, to Rap, to Metal or anything in between or otherwise.

For more information contact Julia Foley at (318) 771-1768. The application form is at Shrevearts.org/artspace/artspace music.


Photo of progressive rock band Tetrafusion by event producer Mark Flentge.

Gypsy Mountain counteracts tryptophan-induced stupor with show at Lil Joes on Fri, Nov 28, 9 pm

Gypsy Mountain band will be playing Friday @ Lil’ Joe’s from 9 pm to midnight, says Will Maranto.

"We plan to do our part to shake off the tryptophan-induced stupor that Thursday will surely deliver. What’s my prescription for this you ask? Why, Astonishing Rock ‘n Roll, I say! We’re expecting a few of our friends to drop by and play some songs with us, too. This promises to be a great show."

"In other news," he adds, "check out my new blog, Will Maranto’s World. Topics are only limited to whatever is floating around my evil little mind, but you’ll definitely catch a good bit of Gypsy Mountain-related content."

Saturday, November 22, 2008

Baroque Artists present concert at St Mark's Episcopal on Sun, Nov 23, 3 pm

We won't be taking the Baroque Artists for granted anymore, will we? With the effective demise of the Shreveport Symphony the region is starved for classical music. Happily, orchestra players have long been members of Baroque Artists and the concert on Sun, Nov 3, 3 pm, will be a richly-performed chamber concert.

Music by Vivaldi, Teleman and Handel is on the bill. The show is free and open to the public.

The musicians include Sally Horak, Theresa Zale Bridges, Laura Crawford, Angela Russell, Samara Humbert, Ruth Drummond, Donald Smith and Gay Grosz.

Baroque Artists will present 3 concerts in 2009: Jan 18 at First Methodist Couch Chapel, March 1 and May 3 at St Mark's Episcopal.


St Mark's sumptuous stone interior produces remarkable sustain. Sitting in the back maximizes, I believe, the reverberation. To enjoy crisp musical articulation I recommend sitting as close to the players as possible.

Friday, November 21, 2008

Karl Hasten & JJ O Brien at KLKL FM, 95.7: The State of Music on Weds at 6 pm


Karl Hasten, Shreveport
Originally uploaded by trudeau
The State of Music is a show tht airs each Wed evening from 6 to 6:30 p.m. on KLKL FM 95.7, says writer-producer Karl Hasten.

"J.J. O'Brien is the on-air interviewer. As producer I schedule all the acts, provide JJ with a CD of the music, bios, info and a basic script to follow in the interview. Our first show was the first Wed. of Sept. with Kenny Wayne Shepherd as our guest. Since then we have had---among others---Terrance Simien, Buddy Flett, Joe Stampley, bassist Joe Osborne, Professor Porkchop, Henry Gray (he was our guest the Wed. before the Highland Fest), Dan Garner and Amelia Blake. David Egan will be our guest next Wednesday and we have Flame Shark, Leon Medica (Louisiana's LeRoux founding member and co-writer of "New Orleans Ladies") among future shows. I am contacting Dirtfoot today to schedule them for a show and we have a number of others on our wish list --- Fats Domino, Allen Toussaint, Aaron Neville.

Though we are based here and focusing on northwest Louisiana, our goal is to cover artists of all genres all across the state. The show's format is we talk to the artist interspersed with playing their music. Pretty simple really.

My phone number is 344-3955. Anyone interested in being on the show can reach me at karl.hasten@yahoo.com to start the process."

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Shreveport City Council hears from arts organizations: "extremely positive" attitude, notes Atchison

Pam Atchison, head of Shreveport Regional Arts Council, reported that "On Tuesday, the Shreveport City Council met to review the 2009 budget for the non-profit organizations that are funded through the Riverfront Development Fund. The meeting was extremely positive with many non-profit organizations sharing their achievements of the previous year and their plans for the future. The City Council welcomed this opportunity to hear from the non-profit arts organizations. It was an honor for me to share many of the victories of our arts community, as well as to hear very positive reactions from the City Council Members.

What was clear in this meeting is that at this time the City’s financial resources are both reduced and stretched. It is possible that non-profit organizations will receive a funding cut; however, the depth and breadth is not apparent.

The City Council has indicated that it would be helpful to see the impact of the Sales Tax Revenue at the first quarter of the year in order to make effective decisions about funding of the non-profit organizations. As the Shreveport Regional Arts Council receives its funding on a quarterly basis, there is interest in waiting until the first quarter to determine if the allocation can be increased. As we do not receive funding until the first quarter, this situation would have limited impact on your grants and services from SRAC, before April 1.

While funding conversations that involve the words “cut” and “reductions” are very difficult and frightening, I believe - as I have said in every monthly Arts Administrators and Roster Artists meeting - that this is not the time for the arts community to take aggressive action. As always, I would encourage you to invite City Council members to your events and programming and to express your gratitude for the continued, historic, support of the arts in our city.

As we move through this process, I will keep you apprised of the progress that is made and I will be glad to answer any questions that you may have. Thank you for your continued support."

Multiuse paths, repainted streets, homemade trails, recommended routes: Loren Demerath and A Better Shreveport at work on such possibilities

If a network of multiuse paths, repainted streets, homemade trails, recommended routes, etc. are your cup of meat then you need to find and join the group called A Better Shreveport. The chef is Loren Demerath, sociology chair at Centenary College and a fellow with a track record in the struggle to change life in Shrevetown.

For one thing, he ordinarily walks his 2 children to school - crossing Youree in the process - and often does it with a guitar round his neck and a tune in the air. He's becoming grant savvy, too. Recently he announced that "we didn't get the EPA grant, but I got the news that we won the National Park Service grant!"

This a group - meeting Sat at 1 pm this week, as you'll see on the blog - whose goals are both short term and long term. Shreveport's streets, access, modes of transportation and point of view are definitely going to change. If you want a voice in the change, here's an opening.

ldemerath@gmail.com

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Fresh foodstuffs downtown: cafe at artspace open Mon - Fri, 10 am to 7 pm, for food and wine

In the kitchen of the new Cafe at Artspace are Michael Chisum , formerly of Bella Fresca, and Sidney Bell. The duo will be whipping out muffins in the morning, sandwiches midday and will be pouring wine in the evening, says Pam Atchison.

Open 10 am to 7 pm Mon through Fri, the duo will also cater their goodies. On the menu are salads, soups, sandwiches and special items. Desserts and snacks are also their pleasure.

The afternoon wine bar's hours are 4 to 7 pm.

Call in your order at 673-6541.
The Artspace number is 673-6535.

Shreveport Little Theater experiences fire in existing wing during construction of new wing

"It is a sad day, indeed, for our SLT Family" wrote Robert Darrow on Nov 18. "Apparently this morning's fire started from a welder's torch. We are already planning to rebuild ASAP.

We are a strong theatre and with your continued support, we'll eventually be home.

Donations to our building fund, "The Phoenix Project x 2" may be made to: Shreveport Little Theater, PO Box 4853, Spt 71134."

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Ed Wood movie Plan 9 From Outer Space at RFC on Fri, Nov 21, 10 pm, in Fri Night Freak series

Did you love the Johnny Depp movie Ed Wood, about the notorious Hollywood director? If mm-hmm, check the Robinson Film Center’s monthly cult and horror cinema showcase, the Friday Night Freak-Out!

This week there's a one night-only screening of Ed Wood’s 1959 horror/sci-fi classic Plan 9 From Outer Space. It's Fri, Nov 21, at 10 pm, says Freak's father, Chris Jay.

Plan 9 stars an aging Bela Lugosi and is frequently referred to as “the worst film ever made.” The plot involves vampires and aliens collaborating to destroy the Earth with a bomb made out of the Sun.

The film will screen from a rare 35mm print, and will be preceded by a hand-picked selection of outrageous horror and sci-fi film trailers from the 1950’s. All Friday Night Freak-Out! screenings include random movie merchandise give-aways and a guest host.

Tickets: the Robinson Film Center box office, 617 Texas Street, or on-line at www.robinsonfilmcenter.org.

Shreveport City Council to cut arts budget by as much as 80% if there's no political response; meeting Tues, Nov 18, 5:15 pm, City Council Chambers, 505 Travis

The Shreveport City Council is holding a hearing today, Tues, Nov 18, on proposed budget cuts. SRAC’s funding is facing an 80% cut from the city’s budget, says Pam Atchison.

The hearing will be held at 5:15 pm in City Council Chambers at Government Plaza. It would be great if you could come
and supports the arts in our community, says Atchison and staff.

Tus, Nov 18, 5:15 pm
Government Plaza / City Council Chambers
505 Travis Street


Being political beings, the council and mayor will take the box cutter to arts funding unless recognizable and viable voices speak out. I'd suggest that if you cannot attend this meeting you email or phone your city council rep or the mayor's office.

Dirtfoot at the riverfront Warehouse on Sat, Nov 22: release party for new CD, Bone Sessions

Dirtfoot's new album, "Bone Sessions" is complete and our official CD Release will be held Nov 22 at the Warehouse in Shreveport, says J Bratlie. Featuring 12 songs and a few surprises, pre-sales have begun and are available on our website and myspace page.

We're very excited about all the great people that worked with us on the album. Chris Bell engineered and mixed "Bone Sessions". You can learn more about him at http://www.proaudioengineer.com and his list is long. Working with artist like The Eagles, U2, Peter Gabriel. Destiny's Child, Erykah Badu, The Roots, and many more, this man is legit!

Mastering was done by Gavin Lurssen of Lurssen Mastering. This man is personally responsible for the mastering of Tom Waits, T Bone Burnett, O Brother Where art thou, and tons more. Check them out at http://lurssenmastering.com.

Thom Self of A Design Studio from Tulsa,OK took care of our art work and it looks great! Also we're printing the album as eco-friendly as possible with recycled paper and plastic for the cd cases.

Photo by Casey Jones of I Am Jones Designs.

Monday, November 17, 2008

Future of the Shreveport Symphony Orchestra dims as concerts in Nov and Dec are officially cancelled; talks continue but no one has shown anyone the money


SSO Choirs
Originally uploaded by trudeau
A Joint Statement from the Shreveport Symphony and the American Federation of Musicians, Local 116 on Mon, Nov 17, 2008:

On Thursday and Friday of last week, representatives of the American Federation of Musicians Local 116 and the Shreveport Symphony Board met with Henry Fogel, a nationally recognized expert in orchestra management, as part of their continued efforts to reach a labor agreement that is acceptable to both parties.

As of Sunday, November 16, no agreement had yet been reached. In light of these circumstances, the SSO Board has voted to cancel concerts scheduled for November 22 and December 20, pending further developments.

While reserving all rights, both parties will continue communications and efforts to work toward an agreement that will allow the orchestra to resume performances.

Said the SSO's Scott Green, "Single ticket holders are being contacted via telephone to discuss ticket refund options. Letters were mailed this afternoon to our subscribers with detailing ticket refund options."

One night at the RFC: "The Who: Live at Kilburn '77," on Mon, November 17

The Robinson Film Center presents a one night-only exclusive HD broadcast of The Who's legendary 1977 performance in Kilburn, Ireland, says Chris Jay.

The set list is a Who fan's dream come true, featuring "Baba O'Reilly," "Won't Get Fooled Again," and many more. A bombastic performance that marked one of the final concert appearances of drummer Keith Moon.

Sunday, November 16, 2008

Review: Barbara Acker, Logan Sledge, Charity Schubert, Angelique Feaster implode in drama Doubt at Capri Theater, Shreveport

Four capable actors arrived onstage Sat night at the Capri Theater to live out a 90-minute dramatic implosion in River City Rep's presentation of the drama Doubt.

Director Patric McWilliams presented a tantalizing struggle between a somewhat naive, liberal bachelor, played with fluency by Logan Sledge, and a wizened conservative widow, played with graceful implacability by Barbara Acker.

Charity Schubert and Angelique Feaster portrayed the people who are shouldered and hobbled by the conflict, despite their considerable defenses. The quartet of actors matched each other step for step in their march into emotional warfare.

The John Patrick Shanley script is a distillation of the inflammatory forces that drive humans. While the script pitted a young priest against a nun of a certain age, figures akin to a springy Barack Obama and the battle-proven John McCain came to mind.

There is a final performance today at 3 pm.

The Capri Theater proved an effective venue for Sledge and Acker and the tightly-coiled drama. Seated in theater-in-the-round style, the view and auditory connection between audience and the actors was vivid.

Tickets: 868-5888.

Friday, November 14, 2008

Student assaying the background of the late, great rock & blues emporium, Humpfree's in the Square, and needs photos, stories, details

Her parents once owned Humpfree's, so Anna Sheffield knows a lot about the glory days of the Shreve Square tavern. To write an effective historic paper, however, she needs more from interviews than glad stories of splendid inebriation.

She needs to hear the names of bands that performed (one of my favorites were the Sheiks, a quartet based in St Louis and New Orleans) and at least approximate dates. Do you have a photo or a newspaper clipping? Were you one of the numerous business partners that kept the bar alive?

Do you remember the Sports Page and who played there? The Fritz? Bands that played at Steamboat Annie's, across the square from Hump's? The names of other clubs that were in operation during Humpfree's tenure?

If you can help, please email this deserving student from Caddo Magnet High at Annasheff@gmail.com.

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Peter Pan Players' band of merry men at the Centenary amphitheater Thurs through Sun beginning Nov 20; Renaissance fair on Sats at 11 am


Sir Robin's band
Originally uploaded by trudeau
Peter Pan Players has a new artistic director, Heather Peak Hooper, and a new show: Robin Hood.

Performances:
Th, Nov 20 through Sun, Dec 7
Centenary College's Shell amphitheater

Th & Fri @ 7 pm
Sats @ 2 pm & 7 pm
Suns @ 2 pm

Beginning at 11 am each Sat there will unfold a Renaissance fair, says Hooper. Call 868-9619 during the hours of 11:00 am to 4:00 pm Mon through Fri for ticket info.

Kent calls Doubt a razor-sharp, powerful production with absolute clarity of purpose; see it at the Capri Theater through Sun, Nov 16

"'Doubt' arrived at The Capri Theatre on Wednesday with the power to upend the conscience," wrote Alex Kent in his rave review in the Times.

"River City Repertory Theatre presents John Patrick Shanley's Pulitzer Prize-winning drama with a conviction of character that is at once spellbinding and revolting. Being that the play is about the danger of moral certainty, these words are chosen as pure praise. This "Doubt" is a gripping and devastating achievement."

Read more.

Box office: 868-5888.

Highland Festival: an amalgam of blues, jazz, r & b, gospel, folk and the other strands of Bayou State music, noon to 6 pm, Sat, Nov 15, Columbia Park

For academic perspective on the annual Highland music shindig, I like Dr. Kathryn Usher: "Hippies used to hang out in Columbia Park back in the day. That's why the vibe there is so groovy good. It'll be the spirit of change and love this Saturday during the festival. Join us. Bring money for food, art and drinks. Admission is free. Take that Revel. (Sorry Kipper, I lub ya)!"

The Little Revel. Hmm.

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

The Dark Side of Oz atomizes at Robinson Film Center on Sat, Nov 15, 9:45 pm


Dark Side of Oz
Originally uploaded by JQuest1
Robinson Film Center will host a one-night only presentation of “Dark Side of the Rainbow,” the legendary synch-up of the classic musical The Wizard of Oz and Pink Floyd’s seminal rock album “Dark Side of the Moon.”

The event will begin at 9:45 PM on Sat, 11/15, says Chris Jay. Tickets are now on sale and may be purchased at the RFC box office or here. To buy tickets on-line, purchase tickets for the 9:45 PM screening of “The Wizard of Oz.”

More Memphis sounds downtown: Jump Back Jake at Noble Savage Tavern on Fri, Nov 14


TrolleyNiteAug25-1
Originally uploaded by tn1store
Red Wax Music has another artist playing the Noble Savage Tavern on Friday 11/14: Jump Back Jake.

The band has signed with Ardent Music, the label arm of the legendary studio in Memphis. This will the label's first secular release since the days of Big Star. Jump Back Jake plays pop music with some Memphis soul. Kat says the horns are great.

Their record, Brooklyn Hustle/Memphis Muscle, will be released in December on www.redwaxmusic.net.

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Sex, marriage, gender and equality: gathering on Sat, Nov 15, 12:30 pm Central Standard Time, Caddo Courthouse, 501 Texas St

"It is exciting that Shreveport will be part of this nationwide effort that has cities from every state participating," says Adrienne Critcher. She adds, "In Louisiana it's just New Orleans and Shreveport!"

People will gather across the nation Saturday, Nov. 15, at 12:30 pm Central Standard Time to show support for marriage equality. It's a Nationwide Protest Against the Passage of Prop 8 in front of the Caddo Parish Courthouse, 501 Texas St., downtown Shreveport.

Adrienne Critcher
P.A.C.E. Political Director
LSUS Gay-Straight Alliance Faculty Sponsor

Monday, November 10, 2008

Rachael Lee Magill in comedy The Clean House at LSUS Black Box Theater from Fri, Nov 14, through Sun, Nov 23

The LSUS Department of Communications presents
The Clean House, A Delicious Comedy by Sarah Ruhl

Directed by Pruitt Taylor Vince
Cast
Emily Kirkland
Rachael Lee Magill
Kelly Mills
James Palmer
Jennifer Lynn Warren

Fri, Nov 14 at 8 p.m.
Sat, Nov 15 at 8 p.m.
Sun, Nov 16 at 3 p.m.

Thurs, Nov 20 at 8 p.m.
Fri, Nov 21 at 8 p.m.
Sat, Nov 22 at 8 p.m.
Sunday, November 23 at 3 p.m.

LSUS Black Box Theatre
1st Floor of the Liberal Arts Building, Next to the Library

$18 at the door/$15 with advance reservation
$10 for Students/Educators/Seniors/Military/Groups
Reservations: 797-5396 or theatre@lsus.edu
Tickets by Mail: www.ce.lsus.edu

Due to mature themes, this production is recommended for those 18 and older

Sunday, November 09, 2008

Animation and Visual Effects Introductory Workshop for teens on Sat, Nov 22, for ten bucks

In the entertainment arena, computer graphics is constantly growing and evolving. This workshop, says John Miralles, will introduce you to the field of entertainment computer graphics.

The Animation and Visual Effects Institute (AVEI) at LSUS has been founded to educate talented candidates for careers in those fields. Many of these areas of computer graphics use high-end software and techniques that can be exciting and a challenge to learn.

This workshop is intended to introduce a student with little or no prior exposure to the field of entertainment computer graphics. Topics to be covered will include basic digital imaging, using Adobe Photoshop, basic video compositing using HD footage and Adobe AfterEffects. An introduction to 3D Computer generated images will also be demonstrated.

By the end of the workshop, students will have created their first visual effects shot and have a greater understanding of the exciting fields.

For Ages 15 & up
Note: There will be a 1 hour lunch break from 12-1.
Due to popular demand, a second class has been scheduled.
High School Students ~ Pay only $10!! You have to register in person (have a valid Student ID) in the Continuing Education office in the Technology Center.

Miralles says he will offer a similar workshop for the under-15's in January.

Saturday, November 08, 2008

Preview the Cafe @ Artspace, food by Chef Michael Chisum, on Wed, Nov 12, 6 to 9 pm


Michael Chisum, Shreveport
Originally uploaded by trudeau
While the straight up opening of cafe' @ Artspace is Mon, Nov 17, you can preview Michael Chisum's tasteables from 6 to 9 pm Wed night, Nov 12.

Guests may sip the wines, says Bonne Summers, and savor the lunch and happy hour goodies of Chef Chisum's kitchen. He and Sydney Bell have developed an array of fresh munchables for the new cafe'.

$20 per consumer.
Discount at Giftspace.
Seating limited to 36.
Rsvp: 673-6510 or bonne@shrevearts.org

Friday, November 07, 2008

The Who at the RFC Nov 17; rock documentaries being screened all the month of November


Throughout the month of November, The Robinson Film Center will be hosting a selection of exclusive HD rock and folk concert documentaries in our largest theater, says Chris Jay. These one night-only presentations feature concert performances, behind-the-scenes footage, and interviews with the artists and fans. In many instances, such as SMASHING PUMPKINS: IF ALL GOES WRONG and THE WHO: LIVE AT KILBURN 1977, the RFC is one of ten or less cinemas in the nation in which the performances are being broadcast.

All presentations have brand-new soundtracks, remastered for theatrical-quality presentation. Images from all of these performances can be found on our Flickr page.

As an avid music fan, I'm excited about all of these performances, but I have to elaborate on one or two of them in particular. The Who performance from 1977 is an absolute dream setlist. When you get "Baba O'Reilly," "Pinball Wizard," "My Generation," and "Won't Get Fooled Again" all in a row...as a Who fan, that's just cloud nine. It's also one of drummer Keith Moon's final performances.

The Bob Dylan performance includes what is arguably one of the most important moments in rock history, when Dylan plugged in and went electric at the Newport Folk Festival in '65.

Here are the concerts scheduled for November:

Smashing Pumpkins: If All Goes Wrong
Saturday, November 8, 9:30 PM

Pete Seeger: The Power of Song
Tuesday, November 11, 7:30 PM

Meat Loaf: In Search of Paradise
Saturday, November 15, 9:30 PM

The Who: Live at Kilburn 1977
Monday, November 17, 7:30 PM

Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young: DĂ©jĂ  Vu
Wednesday, November 19, 7:30 PM

The Other Side of the Mirror
Bob Dylan at the Newport Folk festival 1963-1965
Monday, November 24, 7:30 PM

Tickets may be purchased in advance by visiting here:
https://rfc.tstickets.com/rfc.aspx
And selecting the date of the show.

Arts Fellowship winners honored by Shreveport Regional Arts Council and the City of Shreveport

Reminding the large audience of the handsome economic impact of the arts on the city, Pam Atchison presided over a night of cash awards for arts programs and for individual artists at Artspace Shreveport on Thurs.

The 2008 SRAC Fellowship Recipients, each winning $2500, were announced by Vicki Marshall.

Visual Art - Thomas Little, sculptor, painter and pres of the West Edge Artists' Co-op.
Dance - Anthony Neumann, ballet and classical dancer.
Multi-discipline - Robert Trudeau, video, photography, blog and sketch producer.
Music - Chandler Teague, percussionist with the Shreveport Symphony and jazz drummer.
Theater - Hugh "Poetic Justice" Hamilton, a performance poet.
Literary - David Havird, professor at Centenary College and widely-published poet.

The evening's performance by blues guitarist Buddy Flett was accented by the voice of Rev Brady Blade in a very capable duet.

Gordon Nurse and Trinidadian pans at Actor's Cafe on Sat, Nov 8


Gordon Nurse, Shreveport
Originally uploaded by trudeau
Friday Night at Actor's Cafe:
Traveling Troubador Leighton LaBorde
$3

Saturday NIght
Reggae, blues, Caribbean Jazz
with Gordon Nurse
and his Trinidad steel drum music
$5

Thursday, November 06, 2008

Nate Wasson directs lanford Wilson Play, the Rimers of Eldritch, at MLP; performances Nov 13 - 16


Rimers @ MLP, Shreveport
Originally uploaded by trudeau
The Rimers of Eldritch cast at MLP, according to director Nate Wasson:

Character Name - Actor Name

Robert Conklin - Scott Gibbs
Eva Jackson - Chelsea David
Evelyn Jackson - Rachel Havird
Nelly Windrod - Marissa Brown
Mary Windrod - Natasha Sebeyran
Patsy Johnson - Lorna Dopson
Mavis Johnson - Emily Mwakitawa
Peck Johnson - Jerrod Williams
Josh Johnson - Jacob Bates
Lena Truit - Shannon Stoddard
Martha Truit - Nicole Popp
Wilma Atkins - Emily Slazer
Skelly Mannor - Destin Bass
Preacher/Judge - David Fitzgibbons
Cora Groves - Lauren Morrison
Walter - Arron Holman
Trucker - Merwin McCrady

Director - Nate Wasson
Set Designer - Nic Gadpaille
Lighting Designer - Courtney Gaston
Sound Designer - Lizzie Drexler
Costume Designer - Marissa Brown
Hair & Make-up - Rachael Magill
Properties - Lorna Dopson

Box office opens November 6th and is open daily 12-4.
Adults $15, Students/Sen.Cit./Mil. $10.

Performance dates and times Nov. 13, 14, 15 @ 8 pm, & Nov. 16 @ 2 pm.

For the Box Office, call 318-869-5242.

Tuesday, November 04, 2008

Barnwell workshop by celebrated landscape artist Peter Andrew on Thur, Nov 13, 6 pm

The Friends of Barnwell and the Hoover Watercolor Society invite you to a free artist demonstration on Thurs, Nov 13, 2008, at 6:00 pm.  The demonstration will be conducted by Peter Andrew, Professor of Art at Stephen F. Austin University in Texas.

Andrew also serves as the Education Consultant for Winsor & Newton and Liquitex artist materials; they will be sponsoring his demonstration at the Barnwell Center.  In fact, free samples will be given away to attendees.


Andrew's artwork has shown at the Museum of American Illustration in New York City and at Presidential Inaugural Galas in Washington, DC. A Fulbright Scholar, Ossabaw Fellow, Millay Fellow, and MacDowell Fellow, he has exhibited in over fifty solo exhibitions and over one-hundred fifty group shows.

Andrew says of his work, “My pictures distill time. I value life, observation, and attention to craft. I believe that the qualities in my work relate to the quality of experiencing, seeing, and recording the world both outside and within myself."

Freda Powell: (318) 673-7703

Subjects of Sundance winner Trouble the Water discuss the film at Robinson Film Center Sat, Nov 7, 6 pm


Trouble the Water
Originally uploaded by gaia.streetart
Chris Jay writes from Robinson Film Center, "I am doing anything I can to spread the word about a very special guest appearance we have just scheduled. Kim and Scott Roberts, subjects of the Hurricane Katrina documentary “Trouble the Water” (which won the Grand Jury Prize at this year’s Sundance Film Festival) will be visiting The Robinson Film Center this Saturday, November 8, to discuss the film with patrons and participate in question-and-answer sessions following our 4:30 PM and 7:00 PM screenings of the film. Kim and Scott are residents of New Orleans’ Lower 9th Ward, and were trapped in their home during the storm. Kim captured the experience of the storm on her hand-held video camera, and also documented their efforts to rescue friends and neighbors, and later their journey out of New Orleans. It’s an amazing film, and Kim and Scott are really interesting to speak with about their lives before, during, and after the storm."

Jay adds, "Admission to the Q&A/discussions with Kim and Scott is free, though you do have to purchase a ticket to see the film. I expect the discussions to take place around 6:00 Pm and 7:30 PM."

Memphis singer Grace Askew at Noble Savage on Fri, Nov 7, along with singer Jamie Randolph

Red Wax Music has two artists playing the Noble Savage Tavern on Fri, Nov 7, says Katherine Sage. The singers are Jamie Randolph and Grace Askew.

Both acts are from Memphis. Red Wax is the label that sends Giant Bear down Hwy 61 to Shreveport from time to time.

See recent press, bios, and more photos for each artist at the jumpin' website www.redwaxmusic.net.

Shreveport's Highland Jazz & Blues Fest on Sat, Nov 15, noon to 6 pm at Columbia Park

Columbia Park: the halcyon choristers sang in Columbia in days of yore.
And it continues as a center of mellow yellow during the annual blues fest.

I'd recommend a portable chair. And a few extra bucks for the vendors, who've got food and artisan work.

So far, this fest has not been mobbed. The vibe is that of a fest in the country.

Noon to 6 pm.
As residents of Highland like to say, Hare krishna: slow down and live.

Thanks to Kathryn Usher for the snap.

Monday, November 03, 2008

Read an excerpt from artist-author Michael Harold's new book, Art and Technology

an excerpt from Art and Technology
by Michael Harold, November 2008
"Sometimes we call it entertainment. Sometimes we call it education. Sometimes we call it politics, or business or religion. But regardless of what we call it, we never allow people to become complacent in their response to the stimuli around them. We are always introducing new categories of stimulation and stimulus response. That is why the world loves our culture and wants to emulate us. Even when they hate our government, they still love our culture, our capacity to make people watch TV, for example."

Harold explains, "I just had an excerpt from my book Art and Technology published online by Unlikely 2.0 at http://www.unlikelystories.org/ that I think you might like.

The Rapture should be available in a couple of weeks. It's taken longer than I thought, but at least it will (hopefully) be out while there are still un-Raptured people around to read it."

Logan Sledge in the drama Doubt: Nov 12, 13, 14, 15, 7:30 pm; Capri Theatre, 620 Milam St, Shreveport

RIVER CITY REP opens its third season with John Patrick Shanley’s acclaimed drama, DOUBT. The play is one of the most awarded shows in recent Broadway history.

The provocative story, set against the background of a Catholic school in 1964, is the story of a conservative, traditional nun faced with a difficult and troubling decision. Should she voice concerns about a young, modern-thinking priest who has recently arrived at the school….even if she’s not entirely certain of the truth?

BARBARA ACKER and LOGAN SLEDGE star as Sister Aloysius and Father Flynn.
CHARITY SCHUBERT and ANGELIQUE FEASTER round out the cast as Sister James, a young nun caught in the middle of the struggle between Aloysius and Flynn; and the mother of a student who sets off the rumors of the priest’s character.

DOUBT has been recently made into a film starring Meryl Streep, Phillip Seymour Hoffman and Amy Adams. The movie is due for wide release in December.

Patric McWilliams directs with Light Design by TRISTAN DECKER and Costume and Set Design by McWilliams.
The show opens NOVEMBER 12 with additional performances NOVEMBER 13, 14, 15 all at 7:30 p.m. and has a 3 p.m. matinee on NOVEMBER 16. Performances will be at THE CAPRI THEATRE, 620 Milam Street in downtown Shreveport.
Box Office opens Monday, October 27th and is open Mon – Sat 11 am to 5 pm. 318-868-5888

Sunday, November 02, 2008

Brooklyn quartet Parts & Labor at Artspace on Tues, Nov 11, 8 pm, with locals Goth Conglomerate


Parts & Labor
Originally uploaded by Jeff Sierputowski
KSCL Shreveport 91.3 FM Centenary College Radio and Artspace will be co-hosting the hard working Parts & Labor on Tues, Nov 11, says Tyler Davis.

The Brooklyn noise-rock group will be playing with local experimental musicians Goth Conglomerate at Artspace, located at 710 Texas Street. The show begins at 8 PM.

The evening will be an awesome display of loud, experimental indie music, claims Davis, who should know.

Doors will open at 7:30 PM. Admission is $5. Snacks and beverages will be available for purchase in the Artspace cafe' area.

Obstacles Define The Path by Melissa Bonin; opening in Lafayette during Artwalk on Nov 8

Dances on water, an exhibition of paintings by Melissa Bonin, opens
November 8, 6 - 8 pm, in conjunction with the 2nd Saturday Artwalk in Lafayette, La.

Bonin was introduced to North Louisiana by a show at Bistineau Gallery, a project of Rebecca Hudsmith.

Bonin’s love of and concern of waterways, wildlife and native plant life is the source of her work. Recent paintings have been called 4 dimensional and have been said to exude both movement and stillness at the same time.

Gallery Talk with Melissa Bonin and Poetry Reading
AcA Side Gallery, Nov 18, 6 pm-8 pm

Featuring Darrrell Bourque Professor of Emeritus in English and Interdisciplinary Humanities at UL Lafayette and Sidney Creaghan, Poet and Visual Artist and Namer.
Acadiana Center for the Arts

Requiescat in pace, Alfred C. Glassell, Jr, 1913 - 2008; was oilman, art patron, wildlife advocate

The founder of Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Corp was a Byrd HS and LSU grad who was raised outside of Belcher at Cuba Plantation. According to the Alfred C. Glassell, Jr, obituary in the Times, the energy industry pioneer, based in Houston after participating in WWII, was a patron in numerous fields: marine biology, Texas wildlife and the cultural landscape of Houston.

To make an extensive quote from the Times obit:

He dedicated his time and resources to the Houston Museum of Natural Science, Houston Symphony Society, Society for Performing Arts, Houston Ballet Foundation, Houston Chamber of Commerce, Texas Children's Hospital, American Museum of Natural History in New York City, Smithsonian Institution, and Archaeological Institute of America.

He fulfilled a great role as a leader at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. This world famous collector of art was first elected to the museum's Board of Trustees in 1970. Realizing people's fundamental need for hands on experience in the arts and recognizing the lack of studio opportunities, he established the Glassell School of Art. Since its dedication in 1979, the Glassell School has provided diverse training in the fine arts to children, adults, emerging artists, hospital patients, and older Americans.

He was elected Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston in 1990, a time when the need for physical expansion was evident. With characteristic optimism and belief in the generosity of Houston, he led a ten-year effort that resulted in the Audrey Jones Beck Building as home for the museum's collection of Western Antiquities, European, and American art.

As a life-long collector of Asian, Pre-Columbian, and African art, he donated his excellent and extensive collections to the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. These works, primarily of precious gold, are without parallel. Frances Marzio, his curator, described him as "a great connoisseur who recognized the creative genius of diverse cultures before they were appreciated by many others."

Mercy: art by Debbie Buchanan Engle at Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum in November

Expect photography, paintings and mixed media at ''Mercy'' - an art exhibit by Debbie Buchanan Engle at Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum.

The exhibit will be on display Sat, Nov 1 - Sat, Nov 29, 2008.

Presented by Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum located at 3201 Centenary Boulevard, Shreveport, Louisiana.
Admission is free & open to the public.
Questions? Call 318-861-7615, or email debchrisjoseph@yahoo.com.

Photo by Kathryn Usher of RedRiverBlogJam.blogspot.com.

Saturday, November 01, 2008

Andy Warhol's Polaroids arrive at Meadows Museum, Centenary College; lecture Sun, Nov 2, at 2 pm

Photographs taken by artist Andy Warhol will be on display at the Meadows Museum of Art at Centenary College from Nov. 2, through the end of January, 2009, says Diane DuFilho.

Meadows was among 180 university galleries chosen to participate in the Warhol Photographic Legacy Project.

A pioneer of the Pop Art movement of the 1960s, Warhol turned from advertising and journalism to photographic imagery as the starting-point for his celebrated silkscreen works. An obsessive photographer, it is estimated that Andy Warhol made between 60,000 and 100,000 snapshots during his lifetime. The camera was his constant companion, serving as a combination sketchbook and diary.


Warhol himself referred specifically to his Polaroid camera as his “pencil and paper” producing the "sketches" from which images for the finished paintings and silkscreen prints were chosen.

Meadows Museum’s exhibition will allow visitors to examine examples of Warhol’s Polaroid portraits that provide an intimate glimpse into how the artist worked.

A number of public programs have been designed in tandem with (extra) Ordinary: The Photographs of Andy Warhol. Included are a gallery talk on Warhol’s photographs by Dr. Lisa Nicoletti, Chair of the Art Department of Centenary College, and lectures by contemporary photographers J. Shimon and J. Lindemann, Assistant Professors of Art at Lawrence University in Appleton, Wis., whose photographic exhibition at Centenary College’s Turner Art Center coincides with the presentation of Warhol’s works at the Meadows.

Shimon and Lindemann’s talk entitled Unmasked & Anonymous kicks off the opening of both photographic exhibitions on Sunday, November 2, at 2 p.m. in the Meadows Museum galleries.

Meadows is open Tues through Sun:

* Tues, Wed, Fri from noon until 4 p.m.
* Thurs noon until 5 p.m.
* Sat and Sun 1 until 4 p.m.

318.869.5169.