Fairfield Studios benefit Featuring Lip Service Trio on Sat, July 11, 7 pm
Originally uploaded by trudeau
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Fairfield Studios benefit Featuring Lip Service Trio on Sat, July 11, 7 pm
Fairfield Studios benefit Featuring Lip Service Trio on Sat, July 11, 7 pm
Originally uploaded by trudeau
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Michael Chisum and Sydney Bell have blog for their Cafe at Artspce cuisine
See menu changes and news from the kitchen in the cafe at Artspace at http://thecafeatartspace.blogspot.com/.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Over 7000 people surge through the Shreveport Farmer's Market at Festival Plaza on opening day, says Kip Holloway
The Red River Revel's Kip Holloway and Kevin Stone estimate 7500 people or better flowed through the Shreveport Farmer's Market on the morning of its '09 opening.
"We still have some fiddling to do, to make it more equitable for the artists and crafters and others in the outlying lot, but we're working on that. We were visited by over *5000* people yesterday, breaking all records. Given that huge amount of traffic, the opening was smooth," said market manager Noma Fowler-Sandlin.
She noted, "There are some logistical challenges to growing, shoving x number of vendors into y number of spaces, and getting folks to respect the handicapped parking spaces." The parking slots adjacent to the pavilion are no longer open to first-come, first-served vehicles. The area is reserved for handicapped parking.
Holloway cited the Slow Food Movement as a force that has directed attention to such markets.
The city's investment in the large, open pavilion would seem to have been quite a success, too.
Fowler-Sandlin cited many factors: "the music, videos, blogging, help from friends, participation from friends in the market and attending the market, great leadership and vast help from the Revel Staff (Kip Holloway, Kevin Stone, Christy Long, Jenifer Akers,) the City Staff, our sponsors, the vendors, the band, and even getting my husband to smile while he sold my jam, all serve to make this a great success for me personally."
- Saturdays, June 13 through September 5, from 7:00 a.m. to noon.
- Tuesdays in the months of June and July, there will also be a Tuesday market from 3 to 6 each afternoon featuring live music.
"We still have some fiddling to do, to make it more equitable for the artists and crafters and others in the outlying lot, but we're working on that. We were visited by over *5000* people yesterday, breaking all records. Given that huge amount of traffic, the opening was smooth," said market manager Noma Fowler-Sandlin.
She noted, "There are some logistical challenges to growing, shoving x number of vendors into y number of spaces, and getting folks to respect the handicapped parking spaces." The parking slots adjacent to the pavilion are no longer open to first-come, first-served vehicles. The area is reserved for handicapped parking.
Holloway cited the Slow Food Movement as a force that has directed attention to such markets.
The city's investment in the large, open pavilion would seem to have been quite a success, too.
Fowler-Sandlin cited many factors: "the music, videos, blogging, help from friends, participation from friends in the market and attending the market, great leadership and vast help from the Revel Staff (Kip Holloway, Kevin Stone, Christy Long, Jenifer Akers,) the City Staff, our sponsors, the vendors, the band, and even getting my husband to smile while he sold my jam, all serve to make this a great success for me personally."
- Saturdays, June 13 through September 5, from 7:00 a.m. to noon.
- Tuesdays in the months of June and July, there will also be a Tuesday market from 3 to 6 each afternoon featuring live music.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Invited to the Edinburgh Fringe Fest in August, 2010: Caddo Magnet High Drama Dept; all forms of funding being sought by Patti Reeves, drama mamma at Magnet
Caddo Magnet High School's drama dept, under the direction of Patti Reeves, has been selected to perform in the world’s largest and most prestigious arts festival, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, as part of the American High School Theatre Festival (AHSTF).
Only 30 – 40 high schools in the nation are chosen to participate in this festival each year. The Caddo Magnet Players is the first high school drama department ever chosen from Louisiana.
Each August in Edinburgh, Scotland, the city becomes the most magical and exciting place on earth as performing artists from all over the world take part in the Fringe Festival. The whole city becomes a stage, and visitors can view performances everywhere from playgrounds to conference rooms, from city parks to churches. The Fringe Festival includes over 1,800 different performances of music, theatre, dance and comedy during its three-week run.
The Caddo Magnet Players’ performance will be showcased at the AHSTF venue in Edinburgh in August 2010.
Caddo Magnet Players, recognized for entertaining and innovative productions, was selected by the AHSTF Board of Advisors to represent the United States as part of the 2010 AHSTF program. The Board reviews all completed applications and identifies the top high schools based on their most recent bodies of work, awards, community involvement, philosophies, and recommendations.
The Caddo Magnet Players, drama students, their parents, and teachers are heavily involved in fundraising activities to finance their two-week adventure to Scotland and England.
Their first fundraiser will be a summer production of Jerry Finnegan’s Sister, a story about Brian Dowd, who has spent the last 10 years of his life wrestling with an unrequited "something" for his best friend's sister, who happens to live next door. But each and every time he's spoken with Beth Finnegan for more than 30 seconds, he's ended up with his foot planted firmly in his mouth. Now, Brian's time is about to run out. With recent news that Jerry Finnegan's sister is getting married, the time has come for him to put up or shut up. What's he got to lose--except the love of his life! This acclaimed comedy has charmed audiences of all ages, and has been produced with great success in a number of theatres nationwide.
The July production will star Andrew Wood, a recent graduate of Magnet who received a theatre scholarship to Centenary College, and Hope Gutierrez, who is on a full theatre scholarship at BPCC. Both actors, although young, have received multiple acting awards and have been active in the Shreveport Community Theatres. Hope has performed in every theatre in town. Andrew was the recipient of the SB Magazine Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance as Motel in Fiddler on the Roof.
On opening night of this production there will be a Silent Auction.
The show will have only three performances – Friday and Saturday nights, July 31st and August 1st at 7:00 p.m. with a Saturday matinee at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $10.00 and general seating. The production will be in the Caddo Magnet High School Performing Art Center on campus. All proceeds go to the trip to Scotland.
Students on the crew are participants of the trip to The Fringe. The stage manager will be Brooks Robinson – president of Magnet’s International Thespian Society troupe. Light Designer – Cameron Martin – recent graduate of Magnet on full technical theatre scholarship to Northwestern; Assistant to Director – Beth Hughes; Props – Adrian Gallegos, Graphics Designer – Tori Smith, Dresser – Mary Martha Breithtaupt,
Come see a great show and help send these kids to Scotland. Patti Reeves: 318-424-4822 or 318-617-3319
Only 30 – 40 high schools in the nation are chosen to participate in this festival each year. The Caddo Magnet Players is the first high school drama department ever chosen from Louisiana.
Each August in Edinburgh, Scotland, the city becomes the most magical and exciting place on earth as performing artists from all over the world take part in the Fringe Festival. The whole city becomes a stage, and visitors can view performances everywhere from playgrounds to conference rooms, from city parks to churches. The Fringe Festival includes over 1,800 different performances of music, theatre, dance and comedy during its three-week run.
The Caddo Magnet Players’ performance will be showcased at the AHSTF venue in Edinburgh in August 2010.
Caddo Magnet Players, recognized for entertaining and innovative productions, was selected by the AHSTF Board of Advisors to represent the United States as part of the 2010 AHSTF program. The Board reviews all completed applications and identifies the top high schools based on their most recent bodies of work, awards, community involvement, philosophies, and recommendations.
The Caddo Magnet Players, drama students, their parents, and teachers are heavily involved in fundraising activities to finance their two-week adventure to Scotland and England.
Their first fundraiser will be a summer production of Jerry Finnegan’s Sister, a story about Brian Dowd, who has spent the last 10 years of his life wrestling with an unrequited "something" for his best friend's sister, who happens to live next door. But each and every time he's spoken with Beth Finnegan for more than 30 seconds, he's ended up with his foot planted firmly in his mouth. Now, Brian's time is about to run out. With recent news that Jerry Finnegan's sister is getting married, the time has come for him to put up or shut up. What's he got to lose--except the love of his life! This acclaimed comedy has charmed audiences of all ages, and has been produced with great success in a number of theatres nationwide.
The July production will star Andrew Wood, a recent graduate of Magnet who received a theatre scholarship to Centenary College, and Hope Gutierrez, who is on a full theatre scholarship at BPCC. Both actors, although young, have received multiple acting awards and have been active in the Shreveport Community Theatres. Hope has performed in every theatre in town. Andrew was the recipient of the SB Magazine Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance as Motel in Fiddler on the Roof.
On opening night of this production there will be a Silent Auction.
The show will have only three performances – Friday and Saturday nights, July 31st and August 1st at 7:00 p.m. with a Saturday matinee at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $10.00 and general seating. The production will be in the Caddo Magnet High School Performing Art Center on campus. All proceeds go to the trip to Scotland.
Students on the crew are participants of the trip to The Fringe. The stage manager will be Brooks Robinson – president of Magnet’s International Thespian Society troupe. Light Designer – Cameron Martin – recent graduate of Magnet on full technical theatre scholarship to Northwestern; Assistant to Director – Beth Hughes; Props – Adrian Gallegos, Graphics Designer – Tori Smith, Dresser – Mary Martha Breithtaupt,
Come see a great show and help send these kids to Scotland. Patti Reeves: 318-424-4822 or 318-617-3319
Artists who complete the NW La Artists Roster application by Mon, June 15, will be adjudicated by peers on the Roster in June
The NWLA Juried Artists Roster application, says Shreveport Regional Artist Council's Vicki Marshall, is "the easiest way to get connected to on-going local, statewide, and national arts opportunities and to receive streamlined consideration for local participation. The jury process is a peer selection process wherein your application is reviewed by the members of the NWLA Juried Artists Roster.
Applications are reviewed every other month, six times a year. The next review will be in June, in connection with the deadlines for several of these applications. Acceptance to the NWLA Juried Artists Roster deems an artist to be professional. In many cases, professional artists are given first priority - and streamlined access - to community art opportunities. Your bio, artists statement and samples of work are maintained by SRAC and you do not have to submit these vital elements each time you apply.
The application is due on June 15 for review at the June Roster Artists meeting. This will be the review prior to the October Exhibition at artspace. Applications are received on a regular basis and are reviewed every other month. 2009/2010 review months are: June, August, October, (no December Review), January, March, and May. Applications are due by the 15th day of the Review month.
The NWLA Juried Artists Roster meets monthly to network, inform and advise about artistic policy, and become informed about arts opportunities.
On, October 1, 2009, artspace will open an Exhibition of works by the NWLA Juried Artists Roster. The exhibition will include, Visual and Literary works as well as three weeks of scheduled performances. All artists selected to the NWLA Juried Artists Roster will be invited to submit up to three works for consideration into the Exhibition. At least one work will be exhibited. Exhibition application is due no later than August 15. Newly accepted artists to the Artists Roster will also be invited to participate."
See the application at Shrevearts.org/Resources/Forms.
Applications are reviewed every other month, six times a year. The next review will be in June, in connection with the deadlines for several of these applications. Acceptance to the NWLA Juried Artists Roster deems an artist to be professional. In many cases, professional artists are given first priority - and streamlined access - to community art opportunities. Your bio, artists statement and samples of work are maintained by SRAC and you do not have to submit these vital elements each time you apply.
The application is due on June 15 for review at the June Roster Artists meeting. This will be the review prior to the October Exhibition at artspace. Applications are received on a regular basis and are reviewed every other month. 2009/2010 review months are: June, August, October, (no December Review), January, March, and May. Applications are due by the 15th day of the Review month.
The NWLA Juried Artists Roster meets monthly to network, inform and advise about artistic policy, and become informed about arts opportunities.
On, October 1, 2009, artspace will open an Exhibition of works by the NWLA Juried Artists Roster. The exhibition will include, Visual and Literary works as well as three weeks of scheduled performances. All artists selected to the NWLA Juried Artists Roster will be invited to submit up to three works for consideration into the Exhibition. At least one work will be exhibited. Exhibition application is due no later than August 15. Newly accepted artists to the Artists Roster will also be invited to participate."
See the application at Shrevearts.org/Resources/Forms.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Review: New Orelans quintet Galactic - with friends Boe Money and Trombone Shorty - ruled the first day of the AT&T broadcast of Bonnaroo
Boe Money, trombonist, teamed with fellow-New Orleanian Trombone Shorty to remind young middle America as gathered for the first day of Bonnaroo that the power of the horn is enormous. While Galactic rolled out the Crescent City beat, Money and Shorty took an extensive 'bone break and played almost every duo lick in the book.
Galactic was the act, but the horns were the show. Shorty played it cool, popping out silvery, high notes on trumpet. Money worked the crowd like a barroom veteran, chunking down from the stage and clambering over the barricades to play horn in the middle of the excited peoples. Eventually the crowd put up their hands up and surfed the rangy, sweaty black man all across the field.
In addition to honoring the spirit of the Meters, Galactic and the horns invoked the jazzbo mysteries of the Dirty Dozen.
Of the early acts I liked the British band Gomez. With one strong vocalist and one that was not as strong, their show seemed on and off. But the melodies and sense of songwriting adventure were there. Looking forward to hearing their records.
Animal Collective was artistically adventurous - mucho ambient sound and vocal noodling - but far from compelling. The At&T broadcast was on the blink during most of the set by the beautiful Texas girl who calls herself St. Vincent. Caught her last number and could tell she was from another planet; she was crazed, tranced, manic - but melodious.
Ani DiFranco seemed in fine form but she's selling folk, not rock.
Thank gawd for Galactic.
Galactic was the act, but the horns were the show. Shorty played it cool, popping out silvery, high notes on trumpet. Money worked the crowd like a barroom veteran, chunking down from the stage and clambering over the barricades to play horn in the middle of the excited peoples. Eventually the crowd put up their hands up and surfed the rangy, sweaty black man all across the field.
In addition to honoring the spirit of the Meters, Galactic and the horns invoked the jazzbo mysteries of the Dirty Dozen.
Of the early acts I liked the British band Gomez. With one strong vocalist and one that was not as strong, their show seemed on and off. But the melodies and sense of songwriting adventure were there. Looking forward to hearing their records.
Animal Collective was artistically adventurous - mucho ambient sound and vocal noodling - but far from compelling. The At&T broadcast was on the blink during most of the set by the beautiful Texas girl who calls herself St. Vincent. Caught her last number and could tell she was from another planet; she was crazed, tranced, manic - but melodious.
Ani DiFranco seemed in fine form but she's selling folk, not rock.
Thank gawd for Galactic.
Dirtfoot and friends at Eldorado's Celebrity Lounge Fri, June 12, at 8 pm at no charge
Come join Dirtfoot, writes J Bratlie, in the Celebrity Lounge for a rare "free" show at home. We'll bring the cans you just be ready to shake em.
Dirtfoot is pleased to announce that Friday, June 12 at the Celebrity Lounge in the El Dorado Casino in Shreveport, LA, we will have 2 special guests will be gracing the stage. First, Dallas native, Kristy Kruger, will be opening the night with her unique and eclectic blend of sight and sounds. David Cowling of Americana UK said “Her voice has a timeless quality to it and whatever setting she places it into…like a hot hand in the small of your back leading you to the dance floor, you are powerless to resist.”
Second, we're very pleased to announce that our good friend, Isobel Campbell, formerly of Belle and Sebastian, will be joining us to sing a very rarely performed tune that same night. Isobel has released two albums with Mark Lanegan of the Screaming Trees and has been in the studio recently working on her new album. Matt, J, and Scotty have been recording tracks which hopefully will be featured on the new work, expected to be released Spring 2010. We're excited about this new work and can't wait to see the finished record.
Photo by Casey Jones / IamJonesDesigns.
Dirtfoot is pleased to announce that Friday, June 12 at the Celebrity Lounge in the El Dorado Casino in Shreveport, LA, we will have 2 special guests will be gracing the stage. First, Dallas native, Kristy Kruger, will be opening the night with her unique and eclectic blend of sight and sounds. David Cowling of Americana UK said “Her voice has a timeless quality to it and whatever setting she places it into…like a hot hand in the small of your back leading you to the dance floor, you are powerless to resist.”
Second, we're very pleased to announce that our good friend, Isobel Campbell, formerly of Belle and Sebastian, will be joining us to sing a very rarely performed tune that same night. Isobel has released two albums with Mark Lanegan of the Screaming Trees and has been in the studio recently working on her new album. Matt, J, and Scotty have been recording tracks which hopefully will be featured on the new work, expected to be released Spring 2010. We're excited about this new work and can't wait to see the finished record.
Photo by Casey Jones / IamJonesDesigns.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
KSCL, 91.3 fm: college radio has a new set of indie announcers and a concert series in the Centenary College shell
Music seekers may continue to find random godliness in the Shreveport ether at 91.3 on the fm wave, says Kelly Dunnigan.
It's KSCL: "We are an educational, non-commercial, college radio station broadcasting from Centenary College of Louisiana. We're completely student run and offer an eclectic mix of programs. The Shreveport underground music scene begins here."
The intrepid leaders, says kscl.blogspot.com, include Kelly Dunnigan, Zachary Osric Owens, Tyler Davis, and Cazes Verbois.
Recently I caught a Wed evening of carousal with Chris Jay, famously with Robinson Film Center but undergroundedly of the Pillage People.
This week Elizabeth Lawrence and Kelly Beresko announced the return of their program, Hi, How Are You? Says Beresko to Lawrence, "yow! i am super excited. and we definitely should get there early. possibly get coffee beforehand? OR stock up on arizona tea and grandma's cookies. hahaha. i cannot wait." That's Mon, 10 - 12 pm.
There's also the Alex Beeler Show. And the Dalzell Show. See the schedule here.
You'll see open slots, too. Dunnigan says, "if you live in the Shreveport/Bossier area, and have two hours of your week to spare, then you can apply for your very own show on KSCL 91.3! Check out available spots on our schedule page. Download a DJ application and send it to Kelly Dunnigan at kdunniga@centenary.edu."
KSCL is also producing concerts in the shell amphitheater. Says Verbois: Distant Lights, Pandemic, Her Sweet Autumn Misery. They will be performing in the Centenary Shell for free this Sunday 3 to 7 pm.
Also from Verbois: we will be hosting some very talented Hip-Hop Artists and DJs in a Free Concert on Sat, June 27! From 5-10pm! Located in the Center of Centenary Campus in the Shell Amphitheater, this show will feature the some Cool People such as:
Rhyme University
Deacon Strukt
Bliss
Lil Joe
And Some Guest Appearances.
It's KSCL: "We are an educational, non-commercial, college radio station broadcasting from Centenary College of Louisiana. We're completely student run and offer an eclectic mix of programs. The Shreveport underground music scene begins here."
The intrepid leaders, says kscl.blogspot.com, include Kelly Dunnigan, Zachary Osric Owens, Tyler Davis, and Cazes Verbois.
Recently I caught a Wed evening of carousal with Chris Jay, famously with Robinson Film Center but undergroundedly of the Pillage People.
This week Elizabeth Lawrence and Kelly Beresko announced the return of their program, Hi, How Are You? Says Beresko to Lawrence, "yow! i am super excited. and we definitely should get there early. possibly get coffee beforehand? OR stock up on arizona tea and grandma's cookies. hahaha. i cannot wait." That's Mon, 10 - 12 pm.
There's also the Alex Beeler Show. And the Dalzell Show. See the schedule here.
You'll see open slots, too. Dunnigan says, "if you live in the Shreveport/Bossier area, and have two hours of your week to spare, then you can apply for your very own show on KSCL 91.3! Check out available spots on our schedule page. Download a DJ application and send it to Kelly Dunnigan at kdunniga@centenary.edu."
KSCL is also producing concerts in the shell amphitheater. Says Verbois: Distant Lights, Pandemic, Her Sweet Autumn Misery. They will be performing in the Centenary Shell for free this Sunday 3 to 7 pm.
Also from Verbois: we will be hosting some very talented Hip-Hop Artists and DJs in a Free Concert on Sat, June 27! From 5-10pm! Located in the Center of Centenary Campus in the Shell Amphitheater, this show will feature the some Cool People such as:
Rhyme University
Deacon Strukt
Bliss
Lil Joe
And Some Guest Appearances.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Texas Shakespeare at Kilgore College, Van Cliburn Hall, opens July 2 and continues to Aug 2; more at www.texasshakespeare.com
The Texas Shakespeare 2009 Summer Season, according to Raymond Caldwell, includes:
* Romeo and Juliet, by William Shakespeare; Performances at 7:30pm: Thurs. July 2nd & 16th, Sat.18th, Sun. Aug. 2nd
Matinee performances at 2:00pm: Thurs. July 9th, Sat. 11th, Fri. 24th, Sun. 26th
* Tartuffe- or The Imposter, a colorful, hilarious comedy about religious hypocrisy and duplicitous exploitation by Moliere; Performances at 7:30pm: Fri. July 3rd & 24th, Thurs. 9th , Sat. 11th, Sun 26th Matinee performances: July Fri. 17th, Sun. 19th, Thurs. 30th, Sat. Aug.1
* Love’s Labour’s Lost- an elegant, lovely and delightful Shakespeare romantic comedy set in the glamorous early 1950’s! Performances at 7:30pm: Sat. July 4th & Aug 1st , Fri 17th , Sun 19th, Thurs. 30th, Matinee performance: Fri 10th, Sun 12th, Thurs. 23rd, Sat. 25th,
* She Loves Me- one of the sweetest musicals you may never have heard of with music and lyrics by the Fiddler on the Roof team: Joe Masteroff, Sheldon Harnick & Jerry Bock.
Performances at 7:30pm: July 5th, Fri. 10th , Sun. 12th, Thurs 23rd, Sat. 25th Matinee performance: July 16th, 18th, 31st, Aug. 2nd
* Rumpelstiltskin- The fairy tale about the evil of greed and the virtue of kindness! Performances at 10:00am & 2pm: Tues 21st & 28th, Wed July 22nd & 29th, Thurs 23rd & 30th, Sat 25th & Aug 1st
Ticket Pricing $25.00 Regular tickets $20.00 Discount matinee tickets on specific days. $75.00 Season tickets for all 4 shows
Box Office Hours: Tuesday-Sunday @ 9am-5:30pm 903-983-8601
Location: 1100 Broadway Kilgore, TX 75662
Please see texasshakespeare.com or call 903 983 8601.
* Romeo and Juliet, by William Shakespeare; Performances at 7:30pm: Thurs. July 2nd & 16th, Sat.18th, Sun. Aug. 2nd
Matinee performances at 2:00pm: Thurs. July 9th, Sat. 11th, Fri. 24th, Sun. 26th
* Tartuffe- or The Imposter, a colorful, hilarious comedy about religious hypocrisy and duplicitous exploitation by Moliere; Performances at 7:30pm: Fri. July 3rd & 24th, Thurs. 9th , Sat. 11th, Sun 26th Matinee performances: July Fri. 17th, Sun. 19th, Thurs. 30th, Sat. Aug.1
* Love’s Labour’s Lost- an elegant, lovely and delightful Shakespeare romantic comedy set in the glamorous early 1950’s! Performances at 7:30pm: Sat. July 4th & Aug 1st , Fri 17th , Sun 19th, Thurs. 30th, Matinee performance: Fri 10th, Sun 12th, Thurs. 23rd, Sat. 25th,
* She Loves Me- one of the sweetest musicals you may never have heard of with music and lyrics by the Fiddler on the Roof team: Joe Masteroff, Sheldon Harnick & Jerry Bock.
Performances at 7:30pm: July 5th, Fri. 10th , Sun. 12th, Thurs 23rd, Sat. 25th Matinee performance: July 16th, 18th, 31st, Aug. 2nd
* Rumpelstiltskin- The fairy tale about the evil of greed and the virtue of kindness! Performances at 10:00am & 2pm: Tues 21st & 28th, Wed July 22nd & 29th, Thurs 23rd & 30th, Sat 25th & Aug 1st
Ticket Pricing $25.00 Regular tickets $20.00 Discount matinee tickets on specific days. $75.00 Season tickets for all 4 shows
Box Office Hours: Tuesday-Sunday @ 9am-5:30pm 903-983-8601
Location: 1100 Broadway Kilgore, TX 75662
Please see texasshakespeare.com or call 903 983 8601.
Tuesday, June 09, 2009
Brandon Primus joins Dirty Redd's jam on Thurs, June 11, at the Noble Savage, 417 Texas
Dirty Redd's Thurs jam @ The Noble Savage Tavern, 417 Texas, has really been kickin, reports Blue Martin. "And this thursday, June 11, with special guest Brandon Primus in the house - I don't know what it's going to do, but I'm not missing it."
From the Brandon Primus myspace page: "Born on October 13, 1983, Brandon Marcele Spencer Primus grew up in Shreveport, LA. Brandon was heavily influenced by the music of Anita Baker, Grover Washington, Jr. and Kenny G from his mother, Purdetha Primus. Around the age of 7, Brandon began to experiment with the piano.
At about the age of 10, Brandon enrolled in beginning band at Keithville Middle School, where he discovered his true voice---the saxophone. After months of practice, he got enough courage to play a saxophone solo at a children's musical for his church, the Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church. He performed "When the Saints Go Marching In" and was given a standing ovation! This convinced Brandon that he should pursue playing the Saxophone throughout his life.
Brandon went on to Huntington High School where he played in the famous Huntington High School Jazz Ensemble in his Freshman year. Under the direction of Jordan "Chuck" Edwards, Brandon would now advance his quest for knowledge in music, specifically Jazz and Soul. He advanced so quickly that Chuck Edwards offered him a position in his personal R & B Band. Subsequently Brandon and a couple of his classmates formed a band called Music, Inc. and started to perform at most of the high society social events in the Shreveport area.
During Brandon's junior year in High School, he received an opportunity that would forever change his life. A community service organization called the One Hundred Men of Shreveport sponsored Brandon to attend the prestigious 5-week Summer Performance Program at the Berklee College of Music in Boston, Ma. Here, he had the opportunity to study and play with some of the world's greatest musicians.
After graduating from Huntington High School, Brandon attended the University of Louisiana at Monroe to finish the core curriculum so he could focus solely on Music studies at Berklee.
Brandon had the opportunity to study with Walter Beasley, a prominent Smooth Jazz musician and one of his childhood influences. He also studied Dennis Montgomery III, who is also from Shreveport and unarguably the greatest Organist Brandon has ever heard. After graduating from the Berklee College of Music, Brandon decided to move to New York. He started playing at open mics such as Ashford & Simpson's Sugar Bar, Cafe Wha, Club Groove NYC and the Village Underground. Playing at these places, Brandon started gaining exposure and created a following. He started sharing the stage with artists like Rashaan Patterson, Jody Watley and Jeffrey Osbourne and performing at places like BB King's Jazz and Blues Night Club in Times Square and the Birchmere in Alexandria, VA.
Next, Brandon received the opportunity to perform on the legendary television show "Showtime at the Apollo"! He simply wanted to showcase his talents here but he not only did that---he won three times and went to finals! While all of these performances were happening, Brandon worked on an album project entitled, "My Destiny". He wrote all of the songs and self-produced all of the music.
Check one of his youtube performances.
From the Brandon Primus myspace page: "Born on October 13, 1983, Brandon Marcele Spencer Primus grew up in Shreveport, LA. Brandon was heavily influenced by the music of Anita Baker, Grover Washington, Jr. and Kenny G from his mother, Purdetha Primus. Around the age of 7, Brandon began to experiment with the piano.
At about the age of 10, Brandon enrolled in beginning band at Keithville Middle School, where he discovered his true voice---the saxophone. After months of practice, he got enough courage to play a saxophone solo at a children's musical for his church, the Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church. He performed "When the Saints Go Marching In" and was given a standing ovation! This convinced Brandon that he should pursue playing the Saxophone throughout his life.
Brandon went on to Huntington High School where he played in the famous Huntington High School Jazz Ensemble in his Freshman year. Under the direction of Jordan "Chuck" Edwards, Brandon would now advance his quest for knowledge in music, specifically Jazz and Soul. He advanced so quickly that Chuck Edwards offered him a position in his personal R & B Band. Subsequently Brandon and a couple of his classmates formed a band called Music, Inc. and started to perform at most of the high society social events in the Shreveport area.
During Brandon's junior year in High School, he received an opportunity that would forever change his life. A community service organization called the One Hundred Men of Shreveport sponsored Brandon to attend the prestigious 5-week Summer Performance Program at the Berklee College of Music in Boston, Ma. Here, he had the opportunity to study and play with some of the world's greatest musicians.
After graduating from Huntington High School, Brandon attended the University of Louisiana at Monroe to finish the core curriculum so he could focus solely on Music studies at Berklee.
Brandon had the opportunity to study with Walter Beasley, a prominent Smooth Jazz musician and one of his childhood influences. He also studied Dennis Montgomery III, who is also from Shreveport and unarguably the greatest Organist Brandon has ever heard. After graduating from the Berklee College of Music, Brandon decided to move to New York. He started playing at open mics such as Ashford & Simpson's Sugar Bar, Cafe Wha, Club Groove NYC and the Village Underground. Playing at these places, Brandon started gaining exposure and created a following. He started sharing the stage with artists like Rashaan Patterson, Jody Watley and Jeffrey Osbourne and performing at places like BB King's Jazz and Blues Night Club in Times Square and the Birchmere in Alexandria, VA.
Next, Brandon received the opportunity to perform on the legendary television show "Showtime at the Apollo"! He simply wanted to showcase his talents here but he not only did that---he won three times and went to finals! While all of these performances were happening, Brandon worked on an album project entitled, "My Destiny". He wrote all of the songs and self-produced all of the music.
Check one of his youtube performances.
Sunday, June 07, 2009
The detailed chronicle of Alana Dyson in NYC at the French Culinary Institute at her blog, Little Foodie, Big Dreams
If you love cooking and love stories about chefs, check out Alana Dyson, a lass who found her calling a few years ago when she discovered haute cusine. Her blog, Little Foodie, Big Dreams, is on,like, 475 degrees.
Born and raised in Shreveport, she has pursued many artistic pathways. She has been a visual artist and a jazz singer. This year she decamped for NYC and the French Culinary Institute, where she seems to be paying serious dues - and not a small tuition, either.
This week a post opened, "I didn’t burn myself! Yay!"
Her profile says that she is working on a career in culinary journalism, at which I think she's doing quite well. With the exception of a lack of photos.
She continued, "Not burning myself was the main event of the evening last night, which is to say, it was a primarily uneventful evening. I was supposed to be saucier, and do the Poulet Roti Grand-Mere, but I ended up making the consommé because we were missing a garde manger, and one of the other groups had only 1 person, so we had a 4th member on team # 4. I was glad I got to switch because it’s difficult to make cocotte potatoes with a blister right where the knife sits on your hand when you’re cutting them."
Born and raised in Shreveport, she has pursued many artistic pathways. She has been a visual artist and a jazz singer. This year she decamped for NYC and the French Culinary Institute, where she seems to be paying serious dues - and not a small tuition, either.
This week a post opened, "I didn’t burn myself! Yay!"
Her profile says that she is working on a career in culinary journalism, at which I think she's doing quite well. With the exception of a lack of photos.
She continued, "Not burning myself was the main event of the evening last night, which is to say, it was a primarily uneventful evening. I was supposed to be saucier, and do the Poulet Roti Grand-Mere, but I ended up making the consommé because we were missing a garde manger, and one of the other groups had only 1 person, so we had a 4th member on team # 4. I was glad I got to switch because it’s difficult to make cocotte potatoes with a blister right where the knife sits on your hand when you’re cutting them."
Saturday, June 06, 2009
Dirty Blonde: River City Rep opens Mae West comedy with Seva May and Patric McWilliams on June 24
River City Repertory Theatre, Shreveport-Bossier’s professional theatre company, announces the opening of the comedy DIRTY BLONDE.
DIRTY BLONDE was nominated for five Tony Awards, including Best Play, in the 2000 Broadway season. This comedy, written by Claudia Shear, charts the rise of Hollywood’s Mae West, famous for her uninhibited sexuality and amusing, provocative double entendres. From her beginnings in vaudeville to her legendary stature as one of filmdom’s greatest stars the audience gets to see how carefully and confidently Mae West developed the extravagant, sexy, taboo-breaking public persona that was the hallmark of her fame. At the same time, this comedy explores the lives of two misfits who are her biggest fans. At once a love story, a musical and an amusing take on celebrity obsession, DIRTY BLONDE is a joyous celebration of Hollywood’s bawdy, ground-breaking female icon.
Starring: SEVA MAY ~ SHERRY BOUCHER ~ SHAWN DION ~ PATRIC McWILLIAMS
The show will be directed by Patric McWilliams with Light Design by David Gipson, Set & Costume Design by McWilliams, Musical Direction by Kermit Poling and Musical Staging by Anna Maria Sparke-Keele. The Production Stage Manager is Vanna Richardson.
RIVER CITY REPERTORY THEATRE
at THE CAPRI THEATRE
620 Milam in downtown Shreveport
June 24,25,26,27 at 7:30 p.m. and June 28 at 3:00 p.m.
All seats $35.00
Box Office opens June 8th 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily
For information/reservations call the RCRT offices at 318-868-5888
www.rivercityrep.org
DIRTY BLONDE was nominated for five Tony Awards, including Best Play, in the 2000 Broadway season. This comedy, written by Claudia Shear, charts the rise of Hollywood’s Mae West, famous for her uninhibited sexuality and amusing, provocative double entendres. From her beginnings in vaudeville to her legendary stature as one of filmdom’s greatest stars the audience gets to see how carefully and confidently Mae West developed the extravagant, sexy, taboo-breaking public persona that was the hallmark of her fame. At the same time, this comedy explores the lives of two misfits who are her biggest fans. At once a love story, a musical and an amusing take on celebrity obsession, DIRTY BLONDE is a joyous celebration of Hollywood’s bawdy, ground-breaking female icon.
Starring: SEVA MAY ~ SHERRY BOUCHER ~ SHAWN DION ~ PATRIC McWILLIAMS
The show will be directed by Patric McWilliams with Light Design by David Gipson, Set & Costume Design by McWilliams, Musical Direction by Kermit Poling and Musical Staging by Anna Maria Sparke-Keele. The Production Stage Manager is Vanna Richardson.
RIVER CITY REPERTORY THEATRE
at THE CAPRI THEATRE
620 Milam in downtown Shreveport
June 24,25,26,27 at 7:30 p.m. and June 28 at 3:00 p.m.
All seats $35.00
Box Office opens June 8th 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily
For information/reservations call the RCRT offices at 318-868-5888
www.rivercityrep.org
Friday, June 05, 2009
Josephine Carmody paintings at coolspace Thursday, June 18 through Saturday, July 18
Josephine Carmody paintings at coolspace Thursday, June 18 through Saturday, July 18
Originally uploaded by trudeau
Josephine's artwork has been chosen several times to be included in the annual calendar for Volunteers of America. Josephine's art has been in shows at Columbia Café and at The Little Shanty in Shreveport.
Please see her elegant web site at josephinecarmody.com.
Thursday, June 04, 2009
Robinson Film Center's Birthday Street-Bash on Sat, June 6, 500 block of Louisiana Ave, Downtown Shreveport
The RFC, says Chris Jay, will celebrate one year of existence on Saturday, June 6, in the 500 block of Louisiana Avenue in downtown Shreveport with a massive street party including all-you-can-eat crawfish, live music, cold beer, and KING CREOLE playing on our giant inflatable screen.
Tickets are $50 and can be purchased by calling (318) 459-4122. All proceeds benefit The Robinson Film Center.
Tickets are $50 and can be purchased by calling (318) 459-4122. All proceeds benefit The Robinson Film Center.
Summer Dance Festival from La Dance Theater performance Sat, June 27, 7:30 pm, Strand Theater
Info: 861-3006, Carol Anglin Dancenter.
Entertainment industry: John Miralles's Animation & Visual Effects Program at LSUS growing; see upcoming courses
The Animation and Visual Effects Program is constantly growing, says director John Miralles. "We have completed construction of the student lab and graduate research lab! Now, we are constructing another state-of-the-art classroom to be completed by Fall 09."
He continues: "Thank you to everyone who attended the introductory workshops. We hope you have found them to be worthwhile and enlightening. For those who may not have attended a workshop and would like to, we are offering one on June 27th. Register online at www.ce.lsus.edu or call 318.798.4177."
This summer we are offering an Introduction to 3D Animation course. It is open to LSUS students and Continuing Education students. To register as an LSUS student you can enroll on Compass. As a Continuing Education student, contact www.ce.lsus.edu or call 318.798.4177.
Fall courses are now listed on Compass. If you have any trouble registering please let us know. For those who plan to enroll next semester in the program, we suggest you do it soon so you are guaranteed a spot. Each class is limited to only 20 students. I would like to get a head count of students enrolling next semester. Those who are planning to enroll in the Animation and Visual Effects Program at LSUS in Fall ’09, if you could, please e-mail me and let me know. This would help us out tremendously."
If you have any questions about the program or LSUS:
Jessica Brown
Animation and Visual Effects Program, LSU Shreveport
Jessica.brown@lsus.edu or avei@lsus.edu
318.795.2480
He continues: "Thank you to everyone who attended the introductory workshops. We hope you have found them to be worthwhile and enlightening. For those who may not have attended a workshop and would like to, we are offering one on June 27th. Register online at www.ce.lsus.edu or call 318.798.4177."
This summer we are offering an Introduction to 3D Animation course. It is open to LSUS students and Continuing Education students. To register as an LSUS student you can enroll on Compass. As a Continuing Education student, contact www.ce.lsus.edu or call 318.798.4177.
Fall courses are now listed on Compass. If you have any trouble registering please let us know. For those who plan to enroll next semester in the program, we suggest you do it soon so you are guaranteed a spot. Each class is limited to only 20 students. I would like to get a head count of students enrolling next semester. Those who are planning to enroll in the Animation and Visual Effects Program at LSUS in Fall ’09, if you could, please e-mail me and let me know. This would help us out tremendously."
If you have any questions about the program or LSUS:
Jessica Brown
Animation and Visual Effects Program, LSU Shreveport
Jessica.brown@lsus.edu or avei@lsus.edu
318.795.2480
Ballet, Jazz, & Modern Dance classes with Ashley Murphy of Dance Theatre of Harlem, NYC, July 6 - 24, at Carole Anglin Dancenter, Shreveport
Ballet, Jazz, & Modern Dance classes with Ashley Murphy of Dance Theatre of Harlem, NYC, at the Carol Anglin Dancenter, Pierremont Mall, Shreveport, LA, July 6-24, 2009.
Louisiana Dance Theater
4801 Line Avenue, Suite 18
Shreveport, Louisiana 71106
Phone: (318) 861-3006
Louisiana Dance Theater
4801 Line Avenue, Suite 18
Shreveport, Louisiana 71106
Phone: (318) 861-3006
Distant Lights, Pandemic, Her Sweet Autumn Misery at the Shell, Centenary College, Sun, June 7, 3 to 7 pm
KSCL's Cazes Verbois says: Distant Lights, Pandemic, Her Sweet Autumn Misery. They will be performing this Sunday, June 7, in the Centenary campus Shell amphitheater from 3 to 7 pm. No charge.
Photo Tiffany Bailey.
Photo Tiffany Bailey.
Wednesday, June 03, 2009
A petition to complete construction of a city park in Ledbetter Heights as part of a Ledbetter Historic Entertainment District by community leader Ron Hardy
This letter is a call to action to the citizens of Shreveport. The construction of a City Park located in Ledbetter Heights will complete Proposition No.2 (Parks and Recreation) Citizens' Bond Issue which was approved by the Shreveport City Council February 13, 1996 (Resolution No.16 of 1996) and approved by the registered voters of Shreveport in a special election held April 20, 1996. The initial allotted funding for this project was $1,845,000.00. Currently, in the 2009 Capital Improvements Budget there is $1,334,000.00 available for this project to be completed.
Please support the construction of this Shreveport City Park on the land located on the West side of the 700 block of Lawrence Street. The perimeter of this area is Milam, Lawrence, Oakland and Hope Streets two blocks west the Municipal Auditorium. The Park, a component of SPAR, will be focused on music and art as they relate to recreation. The park will house a stage for live performances as pictured in the scale model of the Ledbetter Heights Historic Entertainment District, community economic development project, proposed by Playaz and Playettes, Inc. Please go to www.myspace.com/tarumbae3 to see the Ledbetter Heights Historic Entertainment District Scale Model and Legend. This project will improve the quality of life for the citizens of Shreveport through the creation, exposure and access to music and the arts. This project will also add to the historic artistic ambiance of Ledbetter Heights as it relates to the new Cultural Arts District adapted by the State of Louisiana for Shreveport. The project as well will create promote tourism and increase revenue to the downtown area.
Please take action and contact your local City Council Representative, the Mayors Office and other Elected Offices and voice your support for moving Shreveport forward in the arts and entertainment. Now is the time to implement this project as Millennium Film Studio begins to break ground in the development of their studio which is 5 blocks northeast of this proposed site.
See the petition here:
http://www.PetitionOnline.com/LHPARK/
Ron Hardy
720 Hope Street
Shreveport, LA 71101
424-9297
Please support the construction of this Shreveport City Park on the land located on the West side of the 700 block of Lawrence Street. The perimeter of this area is Milam, Lawrence, Oakland and Hope Streets two blocks west the Municipal Auditorium. The Park, a component of SPAR, will be focused on music and art as they relate to recreation. The park will house a stage for live performances as pictured in the scale model of the Ledbetter Heights Historic Entertainment District, community economic development project, proposed by Playaz and Playettes, Inc. Please go to www.myspace.com/tarumbae3 to see the Ledbetter Heights Historic Entertainment District Scale Model and Legend. This project will improve the quality of life for the citizens of Shreveport through the creation, exposure and access to music and the arts. This project will also add to the historic artistic ambiance of Ledbetter Heights as it relates to the new Cultural Arts District adapted by the State of Louisiana for Shreveport. The project as well will create promote tourism and increase revenue to the downtown area.
Please take action and contact your local City Council Representative, the Mayors Office and other Elected Offices and voice your support for moving Shreveport forward in the arts and entertainment. Now is the time to implement this project as Millennium Film Studio begins to break ground in the development of their studio which is 5 blocks northeast of this proposed site.
See the petition here:
http://www.PetitionOnline.com/LHPARK/
Ron Hardy
720 Hope Street
Shreveport, LA 71101
424-9297
Tuesday, June 02, 2009
Friday, May 29, 2009
Cynthia Whitaker & Lauren Ross, Academy of Children's Theater, find the dancers needed to do West Side Story; see it at MLP Fri, May 29, through Sun, June 7
Academy of Children's Theater director Cynthia Whitaker and choreographer Lauren Ross present West Side Story at Marjorie Lyons Playhouse this weekend and next.
Patti Reeves, also a director of top young thespians, says that because of the male dancers needed, West Side Story is usually a non-starter. "I'm delighted to see that Cynthia and Lauren are bringing it to the stage," she adds.
Splendid stage veterans Bridgette Winder and Dez Duron have the lead roles. Also bringing Leonard Bernstein's music to the theater at Centenary College are a stage-wise gang that includes:
Ansley Hughes: Anita.
Zach Judge: Riff.
Daniel Salazar: Bernardo.
Jacob Starks: Chino.
Christian Dantes: Action.
Bryan Wooley: Diesel.
Jim Christie: Lt. Schrank.
Micheal Brown: Arab.
Meagan Tinsley: Anybodys.
The dancers include Meredith Little, Josh Good, Leon Carter, Lauren Vizza, Robin Flenniken, Carmen Ortiz, Taylor Walker, Audrey Lutz, Michelle Allen and Dustin Gaspard.
* Friday, May 29, 2009 @ 7:00 pm
* Saturday, May 30, 2009 @ 7:00 pm
* Sunday, May 31, 2009 @ 2:00 pm
* Friday, June 5, 2009 @ 7:00 pm
* Saturday, June 6, 2009 @ 7:00 pm
* Sunday, June 7, 2009 @ 2:00 pm
Marjorie Lyons Playhouse
Centenary College
Corner of Wilkinson and Woodlawn
Shreveport, LA 71104
318-869-5242 box office
Presented by Academy of Children'sTheatre
$15-$25
Patti Reeves, also a director of top young thespians, says that because of the male dancers needed, West Side Story is usually a non-starter. "I'm delighted to see that Cynthia and Lauren are bringing it to the stage," she adds.
Splendid stage veterans Bridgette Winder and Dez Duron have the lead roles. Also bringing Leonard Bernstein's music to the theater at Centenary College are a stage-wise gang that includes:
Ansley Hughes: Anita.
Zach Judge: Riff.
Daniel Salazar: Bernardo.
Jacob Starks: Chino.
Christian Dantes: Action.
Bryan Wooley: Diesel.
Jim Christie: Lt. Schrank.
Micheal Brown: Arab.
Meagan Tinsley: Anybodys.
The dancers include Meredith Little, Josh Good, Leon Carter, Lauren Vizza, Robin Flenniken, Carmen Ortiz, Taylor Walker, Audrey Lutz, Michelle Allen and Dustin Gaspard.
* Friday, May 29, 2009 @ 7:00 pm
* Saturday, May 30, 2009 @ 7:00 pm
* Sunday, May 31, 2009 @ 2:00 pm
* Friday, June 5, 2009 @ 7:00 pm
* Saturday, June 6, 2009 @ 7:00 pm
* Sunday, June 7, 2009 @ 2:00 pm
Marjorie Lyons Playhouse
Centenary College
Corner of Wilkinson and Woodlawn
Shreveport, LA 71104
318-869-5242 box office
Presented by Academy of Children'sTheatre
$15-$25
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Kurosawa, Bergman: one night-only classics at RFC on evenings in June programmed by Chris Jay in homage to Joy's Quail Creek
Writes the Robinson Film Center's Chris Jay: I’m just sending out a few e-mails about an upcoming series of films starting June 1, to folks who may be interested – not just because of the films, but because of the idea behind programming them. I’m hosting a series of one night-only screenings in June, June 1 through June 29, featuring some classic films from the Janus Films archives. These are movies like Akira Kurosawa’s SEVEN SAMURAI (June 1) and Ingmar Bergman’s WILD STRAWBERRIES (June 22).
The series was inspired by nostalgia for the classic art house movies that would screen at Joy’s Quail Creek during the Summer – I remember seeing films like THE RED SHOES there when I was 13 or 14, and it would be impossible to overstate the impact those nights at Joy’s had on me. I programmed this series in hopes that some aimless folks on Summer nights might trip over a great movie or two at the RFC, like I used to at Joy’s.
It’s not much along the lines of a tribute, but I’m going to be putting some free movie passes inside random popcorn bags the nights of these screenings, just like they used to do at Joy’s.
robinsonfilmcenter.org
The series was inspired by nostalgia for the classic art house movies that would screen at Joy’s Quail Creek during the Summer – I remember seeing films like THE RED SHOES there when I was 13 or 14, and it would be impossible to overstate the impact those nights at Joy’s had on me. I programmed this series in hopes that some aimless folks on Summer nights might trip over a great movie or two at the RFC, like I used to at Joy’s.
It’s not much along the lines of a tribute, but I’m going to be putting some free movie passes inside random popcorn bags the nights of these screenings, just like they used to do at Joy’s.
robinsonfilmcenter.org
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Review: the pleasures of perusing Lead Belly, A Life in Pictures, by Tiny Robinson and John Reynolds
Today's NY Post reports That "When John Reynolds recently did a book signing in Prague for Lead Belly: A Life in Pictures, the author was asked to sign a copy for playwright and former Czech President Vaclav Havel. "He's a big fan," said a friend of Havel's. "Goodnight, Irene," a Lead Belly classic, is so well known throughout the Czech Republic that children grow up thinking it's a native folk song. Right now, "Black Betty," a Tom Jones/Lead Belly mix produced by Wyclef Jean, is a big club hit there."
Lead Belly: A Life in Pictures is a terrific book for folk music and guitar buffs and Louisiana culture fans. It is an elegantly designed and written hardcover book of some 224 pages. Composed of many essays and vignettes, it is easy to consume Huddie Ledbetter's life by reasonable bits and by fascinating images.
Though the Mooringsport-born songster's story unfolded in the 1930's and 40's, Lead Belly was a media-made figure. The first image was an unfortunate one. U of Texas folklorist John Lomax thought it would be appropriate to present Lead Belly in prisoners' stripes. Huddie hated it. Having spent some 11 years of his life incarcerated in Texas and Louisiana prisons, prison garb was abhorrent.
Lead's preferred style was way uptown. He favored bow ties, pressed shirts, well-shined shoes, a fitted suit.
The image-makers of NYC found Lead Belly a rich subject. Says Wikipedia: "Life magazine ran a three-page article titled, "Lead Belly - Bad Nigger Makes Good Minstrel," in the April 19, 1937 issue. It included a full-page, color (rare in those days) picture of him sitting on grain sacks playing his guitar and singing. Also included was a striking picture of Martha Promise (identified in the article as his manager); photos showing Lead Belly's hands playing the guitar (with the caption "these hands once killed a man"); Texas Governor Pat M. Neff; and the "ramshackle" Texas State Penitentiary. The article's text ends with "he... may well be on the brink of a new and prosperous period."
His story in the major media had begun with the NY Herald Tribune article of Jan 3, 1935. It was subtitled "Sweet singer from the swamplands here to do a few tunes between homicides."
Then there was Ledbetter and film. His original recordings and several filmed performances are on Youtube.com. Try his performance of "Take this hammer."
And if you get serious about his story, which is partly the story of Shreveport and Mooringsport, add one more book to your list. It's the excellent biography by Wolfe and Lornell called The Life and Legend of Leadbelly. Few photos but rich of detail.
Lead Belly: A Life in Pictures is a terrific book for folk music and guitar buffs and Louisiana culture fans. It is an elegantly designed and written hardcover book of some 224 pages. Composed of many essays and vignettes, it is easy to consume Huddie Ledbetter's life by reasonable bits and by fascinating images.
Though the Mooringsport-born songster's story unfolded in the 1930's and 40's, Lead Belly was a media-made figure. The first image was an unfortunate one. U of Texas folklorist John Lomax thought it would be appropriate to present Lead Belly in prisoners' stripes. Huddie hated it. Having spent some 11 years of his life incarcerated in Texas and Louisiana prisons, prison garb was abhorrent.
Lead's preferred style was way uptown. He favored bow ties, pressed shirts, well-shined shoes, a fitted suit.
The image-makers of NYC found Lead Belly a rich subject. Says Wikipedia: "Life magazine ran a three-page article titled, "Lead Belly - Bad Nigger Makes Good Minstrel," in the April 19, 1937 issue. It included a full-page, color (rare in those days) picture of him sitting on grain sacks playing his guitar and singing. Also included was a striking picture of Martha Promise (identified in the article as his manager); photos showing Lead Belly's hands playing the guitar (with the caption "these hands once killed a man"); Texas Governor Pat M. Neff; and the "ramshackle" Texas State Penitentiary. The article's text ends with "he... may well be on the brink of a new and prosperous period."
His story in the major media had begun with the NY Herald Tribune article of Jan 3, 1935. It was subtitled "Sweet singer from the swamplands here to do a few tunes between homicides."
Then there was Ledbetter and film. His original recordings and several filmed performances are on Youtube.com. Try his performance of "Take this hammer."
And if you get serious about his story, which is partly the story of Shreveport and Mooringsport, add one more book to your list. It's the excellent biography by Wolfe and Lornell called The Life and Legend of Leadbelly. Few photos but rich of detail.
Friday, May 22, 2009
Many reasons to take a tour of Caddo Lake, says article in New York Times
"EVERY visitor to Caddo Lake on the Texas-Louisiana border," writes Jim Atkinson in the NY Times, "seems to come away with a profoundly personal impression. Anglers prize Caddo, the only naturally formed lake in Texas, for its trophy bass; canoeists rate its twisting, interlocking bayous among the most challenging to navigate.
Environmentalists cherish its 26,000 acres as a rare, if not singular, wetlands environment. Caddo is more of a large bayou, composed of many smaller waterways. It is home to over 200 species of birds; hundreds of kinds of mammals, reptiles and fish; and countless plants, most prominently the towering baldcypress — some as old as 400 years — that erupt from its surface like limbs of drowned giants.
But what struck me about Caddo Lake the first time I saw it was the powerful suggestion of the supernatural that it evoked. Honestly, it’s kind of a creepy place."
Read the entire Atkinson article here.
Environmentalists cherish its 26,000 acres as a rare, if not singular, wetlands environment. Caddo is more of a large bayou, composed of many smaller waterways. It is home to over 200 species of birds; hundreds of kinds of mammals, reptiles and fish; and countless plants, most prominently the towering baldcypress — some as old as 400 years — that erupt from its surface like limbs of drowned giants.
But what struck me about Caddo Lake the first time I saw it was the powerful suggestion of the supernatural that it evoked. Honestly, it’s kind of a creepy place."
Read the entire Atkinson article here.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Review: Is Graham Mears the most stimulating painter in Shreveport? Exhibit of his mixed media work continues at Artspace, 710 Texas
Huge, crusty canvasses with ginormous animals and hunky humans leering at you, pretty much ready to chat - or spar - with you. That’s what I see in the mixed media work by Graham Mears on display upstairs at Artspace Shreveport. I think it’s the best show around and that Mears is the most stimulating painter in Shreveport.
Some 15 years ago I saw some of his paintings at his house - Mears seems a totally low-key artist, not a promoter of his work - and they were large, politically-charged, collaged paintings that had a graffiti vibe.
Last year he showed a confrontational, amused red rhesus in part of a group of animals at an exhibit at Turner Gallery, Centenary College (he teaches art at Centenary). It was apparent that the intervening years - he and his wife and children lived in England, his home - had been good ones.
The current show at Artspace bleeds buckets of color. The canvasses measure about 5 feet by 6 feet.
Artist Tama Nathan points out, “Graham’s work is fun to look at. He has a wry sense of humor and a great sense of art history. When you combine the two, you have a wonderful piece of art.”
Mears’ impasto paintings somehow remind me of modern Pompeiian murals. They evoke Peter Bruegel’s version of peasant life. There’s the riotous texture of Jackson Pollock, the surrealism of Max Ernst.
Steve Ross, of Los Angeles and Shreveport, says, “I love the color and scale and the collage quality of his pieces. When you spend time revisiting them, they reveal so many different layers. They have meant something different to each person I’ve talked to. It’s really dynamic work.”
Fun erupts from Mears’ beasts: a rhino, a luxuriously extinct dodo bird, a heffalump, a camel-like figure. In fact, the beasts outdo the humans.
Nathan adds, “He has a good sense of anatomy and you know that he has control of the figures and shapes that he’s working with. It’s almost a narrative; you can do your own story on Graham’s art.”
Eyeballing the canvas gives the viewer another landscape. Much of the structure is provided by magazine clippings. Paint flows over and under the pasted elements. There are places where the paint build-up is volcanic.
His exhibit is called Adam and Eve in the Garden of Earthly Sunny D’s. Of the exhibit he wrote, “Adam and Eve in their grounds with birds and animals. The two carefree characters are images taken from sixties sun and health magazines mixed with art historical references and a few quick still lives. Awkward marriages of humans in nature, figure around relationships that are alone, silent and content. Sun and health, sin and shame.”
Mears was born in Buckinghamshire, England, in 1965. He has an MFA from the University of Alabama. Tuscaloosa, and a BFA from West Surrey College of Art and Design, England.
He is represented by Little Shanty Gallery, Shreveport.
The Artspace show has been given an extension. Megan Clark says she expects the show to remain at Artspace until the end of May.
Please see more photos of his work at Shreveport Faces.
Some 15 years ago I saw some of his paintings at his house - Mears seems a totally low-key artist, not a promoter of his work - and they were large, politically-charged, collaged paintings that had a graffiti vibe.
Last year he showed a confrontational, amused red rhesus in part of a group of animals at an exhibit at Turner Gallery, Centenary College (he teaches art at Centenary). It was apparent that the intervening years - he and his wife and children lived in England, his home - had been good ones.
The current show at Artspace bleeds buckets of color. The canvasses measure about 5 feet by 6 feet.
Artist Tama Nathan points out, “Graham’s work is fun to look at. He has a wry sense of humor and a great sense of art history. When you combine the two, you have a wonderful piece of art.”
Mears’ impasto paintings somehow remind me of modern Pompeiian murals. They evoke Peter Bruegel’s version of peasant life. There’s the riotous texture of Jackson Pollock, the surrealism of Max Ernst.
Steve Ross, of Los Angeles and Shreveport, says, “I love the color and scale and the collage quality of his pieces. When you spend time revisiting them, they reveal so many different layers. They have meant something different to each person I’ve talked to. It’s really dynamic work.”
Fun erupts from Mears’ beasts: a rhino, a luxuriously extinct dodo bird, a heffalump, a camel-like figure. In fact, the beasts outdo the humans.
Nathan adds, “He has a good sense of anatomy and you know that he has control of the figures and shapes that he’s working with. It’s almost a narrative; you can do your own story on Graham’s art.”
Eyeballing the canvas gives the viewer another landscape. Much of the structure is provided by magazine clippings. Paint flows over and under the pasted elements. There are places where the paint build-up is volcanic.
His exhibit is called Adam and Eve in the Garden of Earthly Sunny D’s. Of the exhibit he wrote, “Adam and Eve in their grounds with birds and animals. The two carefree characters are images taken from sixties sun and health magazines mixed with art historical references and a few quick still lives. Awkward marriages of humans in nature, figure around relationships that are alone, silent and content. Sun and health, sin and shame.”
Mears was born in Buckinghamshire, England, in 1965. He has an MFA from the University of Alabama. Tuscaloosa, and a BFA from West Surrey College of Art and Design, England.
He is represented by Little Shanty Gallery, Shreveport.
The Artspace show has been given an extension. Megan Clark says she expects the show to remain at Artspace until the end of May.
Please see more photos of his work at Shreveport Faces.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Review: Pruitt Taylor Vince and Kalah Roberts are Blackbird at the LSUS Black Box Theater this weekend
Pruitt Taylor Vince, Kalah Roberts: Black Bird, LSUS Black Box Theater
Originally uploaded by trudeau
The play being performed in the intimate space in Bronson Hall is the award-winning drama Blackbird. The character played by Vince has paid for his transgression with some 4 years in prison.
Across the table from Vince was actress Kalah Roberts. She played the young woman whose life has been helter-skelter since the dalliance.
Years after the incident, after his prison term, she has located her man. She confronts him in his office. Beneath her ambiguous, beguiling smile and relentless focus is a desperately labyrinthine mind.
Roberts' voice was cool, clear and had rhythmic strength equal to her fencing partner, Vince, on Thursday night.
This is not a shrill confrontation. The struggle here is portrayed by the saliva of desperation, the grip of torturous connection and a series of blinking, head-shaking reverses.
Blackbird represents another success for the creative team of Vince and Robert Alford, co-director of the production, This also marks the introduction of another capable player in the Black Box ensemble, Centenary graduate Kalah Roberts.
She joins a group of recent college grads who are hot for the stage. Jennifer Lynn Warren, James Palmer, Jamie Norwood, Kelly Mills, Nicki Daniels, Angela Harris and Nikai Clark are among the twenty-something players who have thrown themselves into a series of mostly edgy productions at LSUS.
Be aware that Blackbird, about 100 minutes with no intermission, is sexually graphic.
May 14-16 at 8 pm; Sun, May 17 at 3 pm.
$18 at the door.
$15 (318) 797-5386 or theatre@lsus.edu.
$10 students, educators, senior citizens, military personnel and groups of five or more.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Jayne Marie on Cross Lake, Shreveport, has not shut down; main dining room closed, bar will serve menu classics and present live music, says Jayne Lanza
Jayne Marie Restaurant is back after a brief absence. "In the coming weeks we will be reorganizing," writes Jayne Lanza in an update to her recent note in which she confirmed the closing of Jayne Marie on Cross Lake. "The main dining room will be closed for a few weeks but the bar will be open and serving our Jayne Marie favorites (fried catfish, steak, trout, crawfish, burgers and appetizers). On weekends, we will be having live entertainment in the form of a duo or solo. Good bar music for those who want to just come out and have great food at great prices. Or, those who want to enjoy the beatuiful Cross Lake can come out and dock their boat."
Later in the summer, she believes, "Our concept will change from "fine dining" to a Live Entertainment serving Cajun and Creole cuisine. Much more casual and a more affordable price point."
Friday night, May 15, the Jayne Marie bar will feature Bruce Flett and Jerry Beach, 7 to 10:30 pm.
Later in the summer, she believes, "Our concept will change from "fine dining" to a Live Entertainment serving Cajun and Creole cuisine. Much more casual and a more affordable price point."
Friday night, May 15, the Jayne Marie bar will feature Bruce Flett and Jerry Beach, 7 to 10:30 pm.
Thursday, May 07, 2009
Imagine an artist's community in the mostly empty historic downtown Ledbetter Heights district, says musician and visionary Ron Tarumbae Hardy
"The Ledbetter Heights Historic Entertainment District is an answer to Shreveport's need for a grass roots Arts District where creative energies can flourish in a non-conventional manner, thus creating a subculture which will be tomorrow's popular culture," says musician and activist Ron Hardy.
In a recent KTBS interview Hardy discussed his successes and his dreams. He has been effective with the neighborhood arts & education center that he created called Playaz & Playettes, Inc.
Specifically, he asked concerned citizens to light an Arts District fire under Mayor Glover by calling his office at 673-5050. That's also a number which will reach city councilmen, said Hardy.
He reminded listeners that "Shreveport is a pop culture/arts and craft town and it is smothering its true identity. That's because there is no place to express its own roots culture."
In a recent KTBS interview Hardy discussed his successes and his dreams. He has been effective with the neighborhood arts & education center that he created called Playaz & Playettes, Inc.
Specifically, he asked concerned citizens to light an Arts District fire under Mayor Glover by calling his office at 673-5050. That's also a number which will reach city councilmen, said Hardy.
He reminded listeners that "Shreveport is a pop culture/arts and craft town and it is smothering its true identity. That's because there is no place to express its own roots culture."
Wednesday, May 06, 2009
The Folk Brothers, Masssingill & Hardy, sing in Shreveport at Fairfield Studios at 7 pm on Sun, May 17
At the annual Folk Alliance held in Memphis this year, singer/songwriters from across America paid homage to these two guys— Jack Hardy and David Massengill, writes Jim Huckabay of Fairfield Studios House Concerts.
The Folk Brothers will perform at Fairfield Studios Sun, May 17, 7 pm.
.
Making social commentary through music, Huckabay continues, these guys have individually created sizable bodies of important work. Jack has 15 albums and 9 plays to his credit, while David adds six albums, nine bootlegs and nine books to the mix.
Their first album as a duo, Partners in Crime, was released in July, with transcendent harmonies and a great mix of history, tradition, politics and irreverence.
Fairfield Studios has caught 'em on their journey to the Kerrville Folk Festival in late May.
- donation, $15
- reservations@fairfieldstudios.com
- 220-0400
The Folk Brothers will perform at Fairfield Studios Sun, May 17, 7 pm.
.
Making social commentary through music, Huckabay continues, these guys have individually created sizable bodies of important work. Jack has 15 albums and 9 plays to his credit, while David adds six albums, nine bootlegs and nine books to the mix.
Their first album as a duo, Partners in Crime, was released in July, with transcendent harmonies and a great mix of history, tradition, politics and irreverence.
Fairfield Studios has caught 'em on their journey to the Kerrville Folk Festival in late May.
- donation, $15
- reservations@fairfieldstudios.com
- 220-0400
Monday, May 04, 2009
Mahogany Ensemble Theater: The Bluest Eye on May 14, 15, 16, 7:30 pm; May 16, 4 pm; La State Exhibit Museum
Mahogany Ensemble presents the North Louisiana premiere of 'The Bluest Eye,' adapted for the stage by Lydia R. Diamond, says Angelique Feaster. This adaptation of Nobel Prize-winning author Toni Morrison's story tells of a black girl's coming of age in the 1940s.
Eleven-year-old Pecola Breedlove prays for her eyes to turn blue so that she will be beautiful, so that people will love her, so that her world will be different. This play explores mature themes not suitable for ages 8 and under.
May 14, 15, 16, 2009
7:30 pm
May 16, 2009
4:00 pm
LA State Exhibit Museum
3015 Greenwood Road
Tickets Prices:
$15 Adult,
$10 Seniors, Ages 55+ & Students Ages 13+ (w/ID)
$5 Children Ages 9-12
Eleven-year-old Pecola Breedlove prays for her eyes to turn blue so that she will be beautiful, so that people will love her, so that her world will be different. This play explores mature themes not suitable for ages 8 and under.
May 14, 15, 16, 2009
7:30 pm
May 16, 2009
4:00 pm
LA State Exhibit Museum
3015 Greenwood Road
Tickets Prices:
$15 Adult,
$10 Seniors, Ages 55+ & Students Ages 13+ (w/ID)
$5 Children Ages 9-12
Growing art across the parish: Greenwood Arts Forum on Wed, May 6, 10 am
The Caddo Parish Community Arts Forum
Appreciating the Uniqueness of Artistic and Cultural Needs in Caddo Parish Communities
This event is free and open to the general public. Please pass the word onto others in your community.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Hosted by Mayor Hanson (Greenwood)
Pioneer Building, William Peters Town Park
6978 Howell Street, Greenwood
Come join in the conversation!
What is the heart of arts and culture in your community? What programs are successful? What would you like to see in the future?
Join us for cookies and coffee and the chance to share your ideas for the future of arts and cultural programs in Caddo Parish communities.
For more information, please contact:
Halima Duncan
Seastone Advisors
North Louisiana Project Director
(888) 646-9502. Visit us at www.laartsandculture.blogspot.com
halima@seastoneadvisors.com
Vickie Marshall
Shreveport Regional Arts Council
Community Development Director
(318) 673-6500
vickie@shrevearts.org
Appreciating the Uniqueness of Artistic and Cultural Needs in Caddo Parish Communities
This event is free and open to the general public. Please pass the word onto others in your community.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Hosted by Mayor Hanson (Greenwood)
Pioneer Building, William Peters Town Park
6978 Howell Street, Greenwood
Come join in the conversation!
What is the heart of arts and culture in your community? What programs are successful? What would you like to see in the future?
Join us for cookies and coffee and the chance to share your ideas for the future of arts and cultural programs in Caddo Parish communities.
For more information, please contact:
Halima Duncan
Seastone Advisors
North Louisiana Project Director
(888) 646-9502. Visit us at www.laartsandculture.blogspot.com
halima@seastoneadvisors.com
Vickie Marshall
Shreveport Regional Arts Council
Community Development Director
(318) 673-6500
vickie@shrevearts.org
LPB's Louisiana The State We're In produces extensive story on the 25th annual ArtBreak
LPB wrote of the April 24 edition of La: The State We're in, "Charlie Whinham returned from Shreveport to witness the largest student art festival in the South. ArtBreak began twenty-five years ago and showcases the visual, literary and performing arts of over 100 north Louisiana schools."
Find the story in the LPB archives by beginning here.
Find the story in the LPB archives by beginning here.
Indie filmmaker Jeffrey Goodman mobilizes widespread support for The Last Lullaby; run is extended at Regal Cinema La Boardwalk
Says Jeffrey Goodman, who financed and shot the film noir movie The Last Lullaby in the Shreveport-Bossier area, wrote of his opening weekend,"fourteen of the fifteen screenings sold out, and the 2 pm screening on Friday was almost sold out.
For those of you who didn't get to see the film, it is being held over through Thursday. There are five screenings per day: 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m., 4:30 p.m., 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. To see the film you can buy tickets online at www.thelastlullaby.com or at the Regal Cinemas Louisiana Boardwalk.
Again, thank you so very much for your amazing interest and support. With your help, the film has a really good chance of national interest and distribution."
For those of you who didn't get to see the film, it is being held over through Thursday. There are five screenings per day: 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m., 4:30 p.m., 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. To see the film you can buy tickets online at www.thelastlullaby.com or at the Regal Cinemas Louisiana Boardwalk.
Again, thank you so very much for your amazing interest and support. With your help, the film has a really good chance of national interest and distribution."
Saturday, May 02, 2009
John Goddard and the Gilbert & Sullivan Society present orchestra and choirs performing the Mozart Requiem at St John Berchmans, Shreveport, on Sun, May 3, at 3 pm
The Gilbert & Sullivan Society has expanded the repertoire that it presents to the public via the leadership of the affable and thoughtful John Goddard.
On Sun, May 3, Goddard has assembled orchestra, choirs and soloists for a performance of Mozart's Requiem. The performance (no charge, 3 pm) will fill the pleasant stone cathedral of St John Berchamans on Jordan St.
In a recent interview on his leadership in the G & S Society, Goddard said, "Last year, we teamed up with the Shreveport Chorale and The Texarkana Regional Chorale to put on the concert of Felix Mendelssohn's oratorio Elijah in Bossier at St. Jude. Mendelssohn was Arthur Sullivan's greatest musical influence at least early in his career & Sullivan's career catapulted after his "thesis" composition "Incidental music for The Tempest" written during his last year at the Leipzig Conservatory (which Mendelssohn founded) was repeated at Crystal Palace in the summer of 1862."
"This year, G&S expands its collaboration with partner organizations by adding the Texarkana College Choir to the Shreveport Chorale & The Texarkana Regional Chorale. We will have a performance in Texarkana on May 2, 2009 and the performance in Shreveport at St. John Berchmans Cathedral on May 3, 2009 at 3:00 pm. The orchestra of professional musicians and chorus will be conducted by Marc-Andre Bougie."
The concert features soloists Candace Taylor (soprano), Erin Roth (mezzo soprano), Ryan McDonald (tenor) & Steven McDonald (baritone).
Goddard is not a producer who wants limelight. He is an MD and occasional actor, a quiet but consistent supporter of drama and fine arts entertainment.
He has an interest expanding local arts production, too. Last summer he presented a young cast of actors and dancers at MLP in a hip-hop Shakespeare show called Big Willie Style. Though written and performed by a regional group, it was edgy and electric.
If you like the direction being taken by Goddard and the G & S, by all means give them your support by attendance and via monetary contributions. He is jggoddard@msn.com.
On Sun, May 3, Goddard has assembled orchestra, choirs and soloists for a performance of Mozart's Requiem. The performance (no charge, 3 pm) will fill the pleasant stone cathedral of St John Berchamans on Jordan St.
In a recent interview on his leadership in the G & S Society, Goddard said, "Last year, we teamed up with the Shreveport Chorale and The Texarkana Regional Chorale to put on the concert of Felix Mendelssohn's oratorio Elijah in Bossier at St. Jude. Mendelssohn was Arthur Sullivan's greatest musical influence at least early in his career & Sullivan's career catapulted after his "thesis" composition "Incidental music for The Tempest" written during his last year at the Leipzig Conservatory (which Mendelssohn founded) was repeated at Crystal Palace in the summer of 1862."
"This year, G&S expands its collaboration with partner organizations by adding the Texarkana College Choir to the Shreveport Chorale & The Texarkana Regional Chorale. We will have a performance in Texarkana on May 2, 2009 and the performance in Shreveport at St. John Berchmans Cathedral on May 3, 2009 at 3:00 pm. The orchestra of professional musicians and chorus will be conducted by Marc-Andre Bougie."
The concert features soloists Candace Taylor (soprano), Erin Roth (mezzo soprano), Ryan McDonald (tenor) & Steven McDonald (baritone).
Goddard is not a producer who wants limelight. He is an MD and occasional actor, a quiet but consistent supporter of drama and fine arts entertainment.
He has an interest expanding local arts production, too. Last summer he presented a young cast of actors and dancers at MLP in a hip-hop Shakespeare show called Big Willie Style. Though written and performed by a regional group, it was edgy and electric.
If you like the direction being taken by Goddard and the G & S, by all means give them your support by attendance and via monetary contributions. He is jggoddard@msn.com.
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