Last chance to enjoy Gershwin's "New" Musical, Crazy For You at First United Methodist Church new Arts Center

If you haven't bought tickets yet to see the Gershwin "new" musical "Crazy For You" at the new Emmett Hook Center, FUMC, Shreveport, tonight is your last chance to see and hear this rootin' tootin' Broadway musical with live orchestra in the pit and your favorite local actors on stage. Tomorrow's Sunday afternoon  performance is sold out.

Some of my favorite tunes are Embraceable You, I've got Rhythm, Someone to Watch Over Me



Tickets available at the door and by phone for the Saturday July 30, 7:30 PM production

318.429.6885

Come join us tonight

Will Andress, Music Director and Conductor

So who is the real Bobby Child????

for additional photos, you can go to my orchestra blog

www.shreveportmusicians4ever.blogspot.com

Wine and artists chatting about the Oh, Really exhibit at Artspace Shreveport Fri, July 29, 6 to 7:30 pm

Portrait in progress / Talbot Hopkins, Shreveport , a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

"I really want to stress how informal this event is," says Megan Porter of the artists' talk Fri night at Artspace Shreveport.

The Oh, Really show, curated by William Joyce, comprises work by artists Laura Harter, Talbot Hopkins and Phyllis Pease.

"The audience will be sitting at cafe tables, hopefully with a glass of wine in hand. Even you are welcome to have a glass of wine while you talk. I have placed three tall chairs in front of the audience with microphones."
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Adds Porter, " I'll introduce you and help lead the "flow" of conversation. I'm preparing a few questions for each of you to get the ball rolling. But, I really want you all to talk about what comes naturally and just be yourselves."

That's 6 to 7:30 pm. Everything's free but the wine.

artspaceshreveport.org / 673 6535

Big Band Night, Chicky's Boom Boom Room, Shreveport

Big Band Night, Chicky's Boom Boom Room, Shreveport
Originally uploaded by sbctb

Last night I finally caught Bill Causey's Constellation Orchestra at Chicky's Boom Boom Room. The big band has had a standing engagement on Thursday nights, 7:00 p.m.-10 p.m., since early this year. Thursday is also ladies' night at Chicky's Boom Boom Room, so women get in free. For guys, there's a $5 cover. The big band night is definitely something new to Shreveport-Bossier's night life offerings: not only was the music impressive, the crowd was, as well. There was lots of dancing and an atmosphere of respect for the performers - this crowd was here for the music.

The only downside to this experience is that it made me genuinely want to learn to dance. I've managed to scrape by at any number of indie rock shows by stuffing my hands in my pockets and (occasionally) swaying slightly; if I want to go back to Big Band night, I've got to learn to cut a rug.

I shot a handful of photos of the Constellation Orchestra, view them here.

Shreveport cinema history: "Picasso Trigger" at RFC, Friday and Saturday at 10 p.m.

The theatrical one-sheet for Andy Sidaris' Picasso Trigger, 1988.

This weekend, I'll be hosting two 10 p.m. screenings of the late-night schlock cinema classic Picasso Trigger at The Robinson Film Center (617 Texas Street, Downtown Shreveport), Friday and Saturday nights. This unabashedly b-grade action flick was filmed on location in Shreveport and Hawaii in 1987. Director Andy Sidaris, who won an Emmy as a pioneer of sports television at ABC, spent much of his life in Shreveport and filmed parts of about a dozen movies here. Along with other regional indie mavericks like Charles B. Pierce, Jim McCullough Sr. and Jr., and Joy Houck, Jr., Sidaris went independent early and stayed that way. I'd personally argue that the names listed above matter just as much as those of better-known indie trailblazers like Roger Corman.

While this film isn't going to make you feel smarter in any way, it's entertaining to see downtown Shreveport on the big-screen circa 1988. In one scene, what is now the Capital One tower is used as a Parisian art gallery. While a shady art collector smokes outside, he's gunned down by an assassin in a motorcycle sidecar, firing from the Chamber of Commerce lawn. Whether intentionally or unintentionally, Picasso Trigger is a very funny film. For Shreveport-Bossier residents, much of the fun will lie in spotting local locations and local people.

Due to an absurd amount of partial nudity, gunfire, heavy artillery, exploding helicopters, exploding motorcycles, exploding cars, and exploding hovercraft (boy, did these guys hate transportation!), the film is very much rated R.

Buy tickets or watch the trailer.

RSVP to the facebook event.

Shreveport Zombie Walk announces change of venue to downtown

2010 Shreveport Zombie Walk image
courtesy of www.shreveportzombiewalk.com

Yesterday at around 4 p.m., an exclamation point-filled e-mail went out from Michelle McCrary, the self-described "Zombie Queen" of the annual Shreveport Zombie Walk. The e-mail began:

"EXCITING NEWS! This year's (and from now on) the Shreveport Zombie Walk will be held in Downtown Shreveport! Yes, that is right! The 600 block of Texas Street near McNeil and the Courthouse area will be Shreveport's Zombie Central on October 8th from 4 - 6 PM!"

If you're not familiar with the Shreveport Zombie Walk, it's a canned good and food drive benefiting the Food Bank of Northwest Louisiana. Held each year on World Zombie Day (which falls on Saturday, October 8 this year), the event has previously been held at Mall St. Vincent, where upwards of 200 people dressed as zombies convened to moan, stagger, stare lifelessly into the distance, and donate food to a good cause in 2010. The 2010 event collected over 800 pounds of food.

One aspect of this event that has always impressed me is the extent to which McCrary is capable of inspiring collaboration. This year's event, for example, is said to include: live music from The Moulin Dudes, "Zombie Crowd Control" by the Twin City Knockers Women's Roller Derby Team, zombie films screening at The Robinson Film Center (which is located on the block the zombies will be taking over, so they really have no choice but to participate), and more.

One last thought: This year's Shreveport Zombie Walk falls on the same day as the closing day of the Red River Revel. Does anyone else find this combination of events possibly really, really interesting?

To learn more about the Shreveport Zombie Walk, visit their website.

"Strange Days in the District" premieres Saturday, 6 p.m.

The New Orleans Bingo! Show - Media credit: New Orleans' OffBeat, a photo by Karen E. Wissing on Flickr.

“The adult circus is coming to town,” said Paul Roney of Roney & Boytim Entertainment. Roney, along with Chase Boytim, are proud to present “Strange Days in the District” on Saturday at 6 p.m. in the Red River District.

With art, wine and music, this one night, carnival-like show will feature a walkthrough of some of the most talented performers and artists from both Shreveport and the New Orleans area. “The production and set up for this show will be unlike anything that we have put together,” said Boytim. The duo has brought a variety of entertainers to the area, most recently the Randy Rogers Band.

Performances by The New Orleans Bingo! Show, Dirtfoot, New Orleans’ Fleur de Tease and Shreveport’s own Bon Temp Burlesque will be complemented by an art walk and an array of street performers.

From the French Quarter, The New Orleans’s Bingo! Show brings to the stage a group complete with dancers, ingénues, clowns, audience interaction, slapstick comedy and much more by way of an upright bass, organ tunes, a musical saw and a siren pantomime, to name a few.

Dirtfoot, or our local unique gypsy punk country grumble boogie band, will entertain the crowd with all acoustic instruments, ranging from a banjo, to bells, to pots and pans and a xylophone. Listen to some of the group’s tunes here, and bring your can of beans to take part in the fun.

The audience will also revel to the performance by Fleur de Tease, a premiere variety burlesque show from New Orleans. The troupe is entailed of magicians, fire eaters, aerialists, comedians and several burlesque beauties, which all comes together to create a unique and different experience.

As for Bon Temps Burlesque, “We have combined some of our strongest numbers from past productions, as well as some new performances, to ensure an entertaining, crowd-pleasing set,” said Wanetah Walmsley, co-founder of the group and of Factory Gurlz Productions, LLC. Performing together since August of 2010, this group brings to the stage a sexy, yet classy, style of dance.

An anonymous judge from New Orleans will decide which artist receives the $1,000 prize for his or her submitted artwork. The event is sponsored by Fatty Arbuckle’s and Roney & Boytim Entertainment. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.

Save the date: North Louisiana Gay & Lesbian Film Festival is Sept 16 -22; guest is writer Bruce Vilanch

N La Gay & Les Film Fest, Sept 16 - 22, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

PACE (People Acting for Change and Equality) presents the 3rd annual North Louisiana Gay & Lesbian Film Festival Sept. 16-22, 2011, at the Robinson Film Center in downtown Shreveport, LA, says Adrienne Critcher.

Celebrity guest Bruce Vilanch, Hollywood's premier comedy writer, will appear at the opening night reception for the film ''Get Bruce'', and will perform a stand-up act on Sat. evening Sept. 17.

For information about films, times, festival passes, and tickets, please see the film festival web site: nlglff.org.

Design by Shannon Palmer for PACE.

Now Playing at Sci-Port: "Tornado Alley" IMAX Film

Now Playing at Sci-Port: "Tornado Alley" IMAX Film
Originally uploaded by sbctb

Karen Wissing of Sci-Port: Louisiana's Science Center happily reports that the new IMAX film "Tornado Alley," which opened at Sci-Port on Saturday and plays through September 30, is attracting sell-out crowds to the science center's IMAX Dome theater. The film shows unprecedented footage from inside a violent tornado, footage which was captured by The Discovery Channel's "Stormchasers" team, led by Sean Casey.

Wissing went on to say that Sean Casey himself will be in attendance - along with his bizarre and, honestly, totally bitchin' Tornado Intercept Vehicle (see the Wikipedia page, it's worth the click) at screenings and events on August 9-10. The Sci-Port engagement of "Tornado Alley" is made possible by a sponsorship from KSLA Stormtracker 12.

Sci-Port expects to announce details of what all Casey will be doing in Shreveport-Bossier soon, but Wissing hinted at "a possible opportunity to win a ride through downtown Shreveport in the Tornado Intercept Vehicle."

If you, like me, are stoked about possibly cruising through downtown in this unbelievable Mad Max tank, join the Sci-Port Facebook page and keep your eyes peeled for news about the contest. Does it have flamethrowers? Could we add flamethrowers?

Click here for more info on "Tornado Alley" screening times.

Texas folk trio 2-Bit Palomino sings at Fairfield Studios on Sat, July16, 7 pm

2-Bit Palomino at Fairfield Studios, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

2-Bit Palomino is a thoroughbred musical powerhouse consisting of some fine Texas Singer/Songwriters, says Jim Huckabay. Bill Ward, Ren Renfree and Andi Renfree make up this trio of dedicated singer/songwriters who have merged musical style, vocal blending, harmony and songwriting.

SATURDAY, JULY 16, 7 PM FOR 2 BIT PALOMINO! $20 admission plus donate to intermission food by Stone's Throw Catering.

At Fairfield Studios, 1510 Fairfield Avenue, Reservations suggested. Reserve on our website www.shreveporthouseconcerts.org or email: reservations@fairfieldstudios.com or call 318 219 7688.

Learn more about this tight trio at www.2bitpalomino.com

Robin & Bluebirds at Holiday Lanes: Rock n' Bowl in Bossier, July 14, 8 to 10 pm

Rock n' Bowl in Bossier, July 14, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

If it has been some time since you checked Holiday Lanes, be aware that it has had a makeover by architect Mike McSwain.

"You become the bowling ball - via a large pin rack - as you enter," said Travis Jore. An upgraded main entry and kitchen makeover were areas bolstered by updating the lounge and opening up the cafe.

Owners Melanie and Joe Warnke have a vibrant schedule of special events and this summer are adding live rock 'n roll to the mix on Thurs nights.

Catch a vibe from the Bluebirds while you roll 'em on Th, July 14, 8 to 10 pm.

More, including online reservations, at bowlholidaylanes.com

Bistro Byronz, Line Ave, Shreveport, has duos, trios, quartets on Fri & sat nights, 6 to 8 pm, in the month of July

Bistro Byronz, Shreveport , a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

See the board for Bistro Byronz entertainment line up.

Bistro Byronz‎
6104 Line Avenue
Shreveport, LA 71106
(318) 219-4848
bistrobyronz.com

Kern Courtney hosts Naked Vinyl at 7 pm on Thurs, July 7 at Naked Bean Cafe: bring your vinyl albums

Kern Courtney, Shreveport Drum Circle , a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

"Don't forget, gang, tonite is kern courtney's 2nd year anniversary to host naked vinyl!" writes Pam Hairston.

"In honor we are having birthday cake and ice cream. Don't forget to bring a favorite album or 45. We appreciate kern's dedication and giving of his time to host this event the first thursday of each month and thanks goes out to his son, Rainer, for being a super co-host! So, come out for a fun laid back time at the bean!"

Adds the host: "Bring your favorite music on vinyl and hear a song or two played from each one, or just bring yourself and maybe a friend or two and enjoy the music. Either way, it's gonna be a party! It's free and all ages are welcome."

The theme is My Favorite Things.

Requiescat in pace: painter Cy Twombly, 1928 - 2011

Cy Twombly, a photo by rocor on Flickr.

If readers allow the passing of painter Cy Twombly to be a door to enjoyment of his paintings the route might lead to Houston.

In the serene environs of the Menil Collection, tucked away in the Montrose neighborhood, there is an entire gallery devoted to Twombly's work. Having parked once, visitors can experience the Rothko Chapel, Cy Twombly Gallery, Menil Bookstore and Byzantine Fresco Chapel Museum. Plus the Menil's Museum Building, in which you will find work by Matisse, Picasso, Miro and Magritte.

Highly recommended.

Rachael Lee Magill directs Shreveport Little Theater Academy's young thespians in Dear Edwina (Junior) at MLP on July 8 and 9

Rachael Lee Magill / The Clean House, LSUSon Flickr.

Treat the kids to the award-winning musical, Dear Edwina (Junior), says Robert Darrow.

Directed by actress Rachael Lee Magill, it is a Shreveport Little Theater Academy show. Adds Darrow, it is "a heartwarming musical about the joys of growing up."

"A children's one-hour musical, it concerns a young girl who gives her neighborhood friends and family advice through singing in a musical show," says Wikipedia.

Musical Direction by Seth Taylor; choreography by Chelsey Powell-Davenport.

Book and Lyrics by Marcy Heisler Music by Zina Goldrich

July 8 at 7:00 pm and July 9 at 11:00 am, 2:00 pm, and 5:00 pm.
at Marjorie Lyons Playhouse, Centenary College Campus

All tickets $10
Box Office: 424-4439
812 Margaret Place
open Monday - Friday, Noon - 4 pm.

Photo Michael Boyd.

View and respond to Shreveport Regional Arts Council's vision of what might happen in Shreveport Common; artists, arts organizations andpublic invited to Artspace Th, July 7, 4:30 to 6:30 pm

Shreveport Common, Central Arts Station in center, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Artists and Arts Organizations are invited, says Pam Atchison, to see the presentation that has been creating a "buzz" in our community!

"View the preliminary vision and tell us what you think," says Atchison.

Thursday, July 7th
4:30 - 6:30 pm
@ artspace, 710 Texas St. in Downtown Shreveport

This event is Free and Open to the Public!

Jason Pliler presents his cyanographic Alchemical Dreams at Lilah'sBakery on Sat, July 9, 1 to 3 pm

Shreveport Common development: Jason Pliler cyanography, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

"As an artist I am multidisciplinary, but currently my main passion and focus is photography, specifically an area known as alternative process photography. Photography for me is where science and art collide. It allows for me to satisfy the nerdy and artistic parts of my personality unlike anything else. Photography for me is a meditative process that takes place not only when I am taking the picture but also when I am making the print in the darkroom," says Jason Pliler.

See his work during a reception on Saturday, July 9 · 1:00pm - 3:00pm
at Lilah's Deli & Bakery.

440 Olive Street, Shreveport, LA 71104
318-676-1407
http://www.lilascakes.com
http://www.lilahsdeli.com
Mon - Fri:8:00 am-6:00 pm
Sat:8:00 am-3:00 pm

Complete Streets: It’s About More Than Bike Lanes

Complete Streets: It’s About More Than Bike Lanes

Shreveport, we have the opportunity to soon see Kings/Youree -- Youree/E. Washington -- Shreveport-Barksdale/E. Kings as depicted in this fabulous video.

Lets not design to make it more unsafe to bicycles and pedestrians than it already is. If we created a safe environment, then we would all use it!

Tetrafusion: progressive rock musicians from Shreveport-Bossier gathering resources to make rigatonical record

Tetrafusion, progressive rock from a Shreveport-Bossier quartet / fb, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Here's a worthy project: Tetrafusion, one of the hardest rocking quartets in the region, is asking fans for contributions, trying to make $3760. They want to track a level-changing record.

If you are a fan of virtuoso rock - once typified by Yes, King Crimson, Emerson, Lake & Palmer - you will enjoy Tetrafusion's thundering attack and complex melodies.

Keyboard player Gary Tubbs is a musical wunderkind. His partners in the band are also amazing musicians.

Having proven themselves first-class writers and performers with the album Absolute Zero, it's time for this quartet to make an album with a producer who can lead them through the regional gates into the fields of global joy.

We recommend their quest.

Art and our Paleolithic ancestors in Cave of Forgotten Dreams at Robinson Film Center

Herzog "Cave of Forgotten Dreams", a photo by tengo_flickr_nuevo on Flickr.

"The Chauvet-Pont-d'Arc Cave is a cave in southern France that contains the earliest known cave paintings, as well as other evidence of Upper Paleolithic life," says Wikipedia. "It is located on a limestone cliff above the former bed of the Ardèche River. Discovered in 1994, it is considered one of the most significant prehistoric art sites."

Eminent filmmaker Werner Herzog has won a 96% rating at rottentomatoes.com for his new documentary on the Ice Age cave. It is in 3-d and is being shown at RFC.

More on the art of the Chauvet cave.