Wrestling fans, here's something for you to feast off of: WWE Smackdown. The wrestling extravaganza takes place 6:45 p.m. June 8 at the St. Pete Times Forum in Tampa. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. April 3.
This is your chance to see some of wrestling's best superstars, such as Chris Jericho, Undertaker, Batista, Edge, Red Mysterio, CM Punk, Kane, John Morrison, R-Truth, Drew McIntyre, Matt Hardy, Cryme Tyme, Michelle McCool, Mickie James and more.
Tickets: $20-$75
For more info, call Ticketmaster at 1-800-745-3000 or the forum at (813) 301-2500.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Monday, March 29, 2010
REVIEW: "Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat"
Audiences will get a kick out of the Manatee Players’ “Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat” — a witty Andrew Lloyd Webber musical that’s guaranteed to entertain.
The lively cast is a treat to watch as they dance and sing up a storm.
Directed and choreographed by Dewayne Barrett, “Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat” takes you on the Biblical adventure of Joseph (Tom Westlake). Joseph is the favored son of Jacob, and comes from a family of 11 brothers who are jealous of him. So jealous, in fact, that they sell him into slavery. Taken to Egypt, Joseph goes through several ordeals, including getting thrown in jail. But all the while, good favor seems to shine down on him — especially with his ability to interpret dreams.
But in Webber’s musical world and a few extra modern touches from Barrett, this familiar tale is told with twist. There’s an assortment of music, from country to pop; a narrator (Channing Weir); a colorful children’s choir and things such as Biblical characters sporting sunglasses, tennis shoes and hippie fashions.
In word, this show is fun.
Westlake has the nice, strong voice that’s required for Joseph and plays his role with the innocence needed for the character. Weir is standout as the narrator. Her stunning voice shows a range of delicacy and power that gives the production flair. Speaking of flair, an ambitious children’s choir provided plenty of that during the opening night performance. Almost every choir member was full of energy and a delight to watch — particularly young Amanda Lade, who poured her shining spirit into literally each and every song.
Another standout was Mark Netherly, who was quite entertaining as the Pharaoh with an Elvis vibe.
Joseph’s brothers also presented a wide range of talents through song and great dance moves. When it came to dance, Ryan Hart, who played Napthali, and Calvin Farlas, who played young Benjamin, wowed the audience with their footwork. Taso Zouroudis, as Dan; Eldred Brown as Ruben and the rest of the brothers delivered great vocals in numbers such as “Go Go Go Joseph,” “Canaan Days” and “Benjamin Calypso.”
There were times in the first act, though, when it was a little hard to hear the actors over the music. Though this was remedied by the end of Act I. And while the first part of this fast-paced show was performed solidly, Act II had more charm.
Georgina Willmott, provided stunning, authentic-looking costumes while William Booth provided a nice and simplistic set design for the performance.
Enjoyable all around, audiences will adore “Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat.”
- January Holmes
The lively cast is a treat to watch as they dance and sing up a storm.
Directed and choreographed by Dewayne Barrett, “Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat” takes you on the Biblical adventure of Joseph (Tom Westlake). Joseph is the favored son of Jacob, and comes from a family of 11 brothers who are jealous of him. So jealous, in fact, that they sell him into slavery. Taken to Egypt, Joseph goes through several ordeals, including getting thrown in jail. But all the while, good favor seems to shine down on him — especially with his ability to interpret dreams.
But in Webber’s musical world and a few extra modern touches from Barrett, this familiar tale is told with twist. There’s an assortment of music, from country to pop; a narrator (Channing Weir); a colorful children’s choir and things such as Biblical characters sporting sunglasses, tennis shoes and hippie fashions.
In word, this show is fun.
Westlake has the nice, strong voice that’s required for Joseph and plays his role with the innocence needed for the character. Weir is standout as the narrator. Her stunning voice shows a range of delicacy and power that gives the production flair. Speaking of flair, an ambitious children’s choir provided plenty of that during the opening night performance. Almost every choir member was full of energy and a delight to watch — particularly young Amanda Lade, who poured her shining spirit into literally each and every song.
Another standout was Mark Netherly, who was quite entertaining as the Pharaoh with an Elvis vibe.
Joseph’s brothers also presented a wide range of talents through song and great dance moves. When it came to dance, Ryan Hart, who played Napthali, and Calvin Farlas, who played young Benjamin, wowed the audience with their footwork. Taso Zouroudis, as Dan; Eldred Brown as Ruben and the rest of the brothers delivered great vocals in numbers such as “Go Go Go Joseph,” “Canaan Days” and “Benjamin Calypso.”
There were times in the first act, though, when it was a little hard to hear the actors over the music. Though this was remedied by the end of Act I. And while the first part of this fast-paced show was performed solidly, Act II had more charm.
Georgina Willmott, provided stunning, authentic-looking costumes while William Booth provided a nice and simplistic set design for the performance.
Enjoyable all around, audiences will adore “Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat.”
- January Holmes
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Orchestra maps season of mystery
When Leif Bjaland starts talking music, you can bet the conversation will take on an alluring melody of its own.
Bjaland is the artistic director of the Sarasota Orchestra. When I chatted with him for a story about the organization’s season announcement last week, he had me intrigued by some of next year’s highlights.
There’s live music from Alfred Hitchcock films that will be presented with footage from Hitchcock thrillers. There’s also the “Invention of the American Sound” program, which will present how Irving Berlin, George Gershwin and Aaron Copland came to create the nation’s trademark sound.
But last week’s story didn’t tell you about another interesting season twist.
Found out this mysterious musical twist in my column in the Bradenton Herald Sunday.
- January Holmes
Bjaland is the artistic director of the Sarasota Orchestra. When I chatted with him for a story about the organization’s season announcement last week, he had me intrigued by some of next year’s highlights.
There’s live music from Alfred Hitchcock films that will be presented with footage from Hitchcock thrillers. There’s also the “Invention of the American Sound” program, which will present how Irving Berlin, George Gershwin and Aaron Copland came to create the nation’s trademark sound.
But last week’s story didn’t tell you about another interesting season twist.
Found out this mysterious musical twist in my column in the Bradenton Herald Sunday.
- January Holmes
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Local talent stars in new indie film
It's a beautiful thing when local talent and local film mix.
Bradenton resident Danielle White, 18, will be featured in an upcoming film titled "Beautiful Noise," which is currently in pre-production.
The local indie film is a music drama that has White starring as Dez, a free-spirited singer who is on a mission to find Noah (Jay White), an aging 1960s pop/rock star down on his luck. She wants to get his permission to re-record his "lost album."
Working together on the project, the pair fall in love. Their unexpected romance hits various bumps and surprises as it blooms.
The film also has more than 20 original songs with a track from singer Joni Mitchell.
This isn't White's first and only gig. She's been featured on the TV talent show "American Juniors" as well as "An American Idol Christmas," Entertainment Tonight" and "Extra."
She's joined by a talented cast and crew that span from Hollywood to the Suncoast, said Steve Tatone of the Sarasota-based Midnight Pass Productions.
"Their singing and acting skills are phenomenal," he said.
No date has been set for a release. Filming begins this summer in Bradenton, Sarasota and Myakka, Tatone said.
A few distributors have already expressed interest in the film, which is being financed by local investors, Tatone said. Once filming is complete, his production company will submit "Beautiful Noise" to various film festivals - including the mother of all film festivals. That's right: Sundance.
For more information or investment opportunities, visit http://www.beautifulnoisemovie.com/.
Bradenton resident Danielle White, 18, will be featured in an upcoming film titled "Beautiful Noise," which is currently in pre-production.
The local indie film is a music drama that has White starring as Dez, a free-spirited singer who is on a mission to find Noah (Jay White), an aging 1960s pop/rock star down on his luck. She wants to get his permission to re-record his "lost album."
Working together on the project, the pair fall in love. Their unexpected romance hits various bumps and surprises as it blooms.
The film also has more than 20 original songs with a track from singer Joni Mitchell.
This isn't White's first and only gig. She's been featured on the TV talent show "American Juniors" as well as "An American Idol Christmas," Entertainment Tonight" and "Extra."
She's joined by a talented cast and crew that span from Hollywood to the Suncoast, said Steve Tatone of the Sarasota-based Midnight Pass Productions.
"Their singing and acting skills are phenomenal," he said.
No date has been set for a release. Filming begins this summer in Bradenton, Sarasota and Myakka, Tatone said.
A few distributors have already expressed interest in the film, which is being financed by local investors, Tatone said. Once filming is complete, his production company will submit "Beautiful Noise" to various film festivals - including the mother of all film festivals. That's right: Sundance.
For more information or investment opportunities, visit http://www.beautifulnoisemovie.com/.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Anna Maria's cultural connection
With Realize Bradenton in the headlines recently about aiming to make downtown Bradenton a vibrant hot spot, “Cultural Destination” seem to be the latest buzzwords.
In fact, it’s a contagious phrase — in a good way.
I recently had the opportunity to meet a group trying to make a difference for Anna Maria Island — Cultural Connections. It’s mission: promoting the island’s appealing cultural attributes.
Those attributes are more than the white sand beaches that lure thousands of visitors each year. One can only sit on the beach so long before wondering what other things are hidden in this tropical paradise.
That’s where Cultural Connections comes in.
Find out what I learned from the group in my column in this Sunday's Bradenton Herald.
- January Holmes
In fact, it’s a contagious phrase — in a good way.
I recently had the opportunity to meet a group trying to make a difference for Anna Maria Island — Cultural Connections. It’s mission: promoting the island’s appealing cultural attributes.
Those attributes are more than the white sand beaches that lure thousands of visitors each year. One can only sit on the beach so long before wondering what other things are hidden in this tropical paradise.
That’s where Cultural Connections comes in.
Find out what I learned from the group in my column in this Sunday's Bradenton Herald.
- January Holmes
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Geckofest 2010 Scavenger Hunt!
Geckos, geckos here and there.
Geckos, geckos everywhere.
But can you spot the right ones that will lead to a special prize? Here are details below:
Download the gecko trail map from www.bradentongeckofest.org or pick one up at local cultural centers including ArtCenter Manatee (209 Ninth Street West, Bradenton), the South Florida Museum (201 Tenth Street West, Bradenton) and the Manatee County Cultural Alliance (926 Twelfth Street West, Bradenton).
Using the following five clues, find the matching geckos, take a picture of yourself in front of each one and submit the pictures with their name and location to the South Florida Museum, 201 10th St.. W, Bradenton. Include your name, address, phone number and e-mail address. Entry deadline is 4:30 p.m., Wednesday, March 31. One entry per person and winners will be selected at random from the correct entries. Entry forms are available at www.BradentonGeckoFest.org and the downtown arts organizations.
Scavenger hunt clues:
1. I have something in common with the Bradenton Water Tower
2. Sometimes know as Peter Parker, you will marvel at my ability
to stick to the side of a building
3. Lying in the sun lights me up!
4. I’m the fastest gecko on wheels
5. Come ride with me on “Old Cabbage Head”
Good luck! You have until 4:30 p.m. March 31. Prizes have been donated by the Pittsburgh Pirates, South Florida Museum, Manatee Players and other Bradenton GeckoFest sponsors.
Geckos, geckos everywhere.
But can you spot the right ones that will lead to a special prize? Here are details below:
Download the gecko trail map from www.bradentongeckofest.org or pick one up at local cultural centers including ArtCenter Manatee (209 Ninth Street West, Bradenton), the South Florida Museum (201 Tenth Street West, Bradenton) and the Manatee County Cultural Alliance (926 Twelfth Street West, Bradenton).
Using the following five clues, find the matching geckos, take a picture of yourself in front of each one and submit the pictures with their name and location to the South Florida Museum, 201 10th St.. W, Bradenton. Include your name, address, phone number and e-mail address. Entry deadline is 4:30 p.m., Wednesday, March 31. One entry per person and winners will be selected at random from the correct entries. Entry forms are available at www.BradentonGeckoFest.org and the downtown arts organizations.
Scavenger hunt clues:
1. I have something in common with the Bradenton Water Tower
2. Sometimes know as Peter Parker, you will marvel at my ability
to stick to the side of a building
3. Lying in the sun lights me up!
4. I’m the fastest gecko on wheels
5. Come ride with me on “Old Cabbage Head”
Good luck! You have until 4:30 p.m. March 31. Prizes have been donated by the Pittsburgh Pirates, South Florida Museum, Manatee Players and other Bradenton GeckoFest sponsors.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Unplugged, Asolo's new play festival opens
March 14 begins something new at the Asolo Repertory Theatre - a new play reading series called "Unplugged - Theatre in the Raw." The event is through April 3. Of the new plays presented will be a piece by Greenfield Prize winner Craig Lucas. Lucas is the first to receive the new award, which is presented in conjunction with the Hermitage Artist Retreat.
Also, look for two developmental workshops and three separate readings.
Out of the plays offered, one play might be chosen for a full production run during Asolo Rep's next season. We'll keep you posted on that.
Be aware that most of the plays presented during the festival will contain adult content and strong language - stuff that's not for the kiddies. Other than that, enjoy!
Here's what's in store:
MARCH 14 at 7p.m. READING in the main rehearsal hall $5
HOW TO PRAY by Michelle Carter
A young single woman makes the decision as to whether or not she should keep the child she is carrying while getting advice from her lover, priest, dog, cat and transgender best friend.
MARCH 16 at 2p.m. READING in the main rehearsal hall $5
THE INNOCENTS by Steven Drukman
Two best friends struggle to have a baby until two very sexy young men enter the picture!
MARCH 17 at 8p.m. READING in the main rehearsal hall $5
HIGHER by Carey Perloff
A couple, both architects, find themselves vying for the same prize in this thrilling work by the artistic director of San Francisco’s American Conservatory Theatre.
MARCH 26 & 27 at 8p.m. STAGED READING with moderated talkback in the Cook Theatre $10
FIZZ by Rogelio Martinez
A play about outsiders, the American capitalist system and the recipe for New Coke.
MARCH 27 at 2p.m. STAGED PRODUCTION in the Cook Theatre $5 students/$7 adults
LEND US YOUR VOICE an encore performance of original ensemble works, devised by area high school students from community interviews as source material. This play is appropriate for young audiences.
APRIL 2 at 8p.m. STAGED READING with moderated talkback in the Cook Theatre $10
APRIL 3 at 2p.m. STAGED READING with moderated talkback in the Cook Theatre $10
LOVE & IRONY by Craig Lucas
A new play from Greenfield Prize-winning, internationally renowned playwright Craig Lucas.
APRIL 3 in the Mezzanine lobby immediately following the 2 p.m. reading and talkback
Greenfield Prize Play Celebration and Closing Reception
The closing reception is valued at $15 and only available as part of the All-Access Pass.
All-Access passes are $45. Mini pass is $20 and includes a table reading and two staged readings. Plays run $5-$10 a day. For more info: 351-8000. The event will be held at the FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota.
Other theater fare:
Aside from the festival, check out the theater's next free Late Night Series Event at 2 p.m. March 13 and 8 p.m. March 14 in the Cook Theatre. FSU/Asolo Conservatory for Actor Training students will present "The Shawl" by David Mamet.
Details of "The Shawl":
A One Act Play in Four Acts
A grieving daughter’s desperate search for answers leads her to seek the help of a self- professed medium in Mamet’s lyrical exploration of chance, fate and the power of spiritual knowledge.
Also, look for two developmental workshops and three separate readings.
Out of the plays offered, one play might be chosen for a full production run during Asolo Rep's next season. We'll keep you posted on that.
Be aware that most of the plays presented during the festival will contain adult content and strong language - stuff that's not for the kiddies. Other than that, enjoy!
Here's what's in store:
MARCH 14 at 7p.m. READING in the main rehearsal hall $5
HOW TO PRAY by Michelle Carter
A young single woman makes the decision as to whether or not she should keep the child she is carrying while getting advice from her lover, priest, dog, cat and transgender best friend.
MARCH 16 at 2p.m. READING in the main rehearsal hall $5
THE INNOCENTS by Steven Drukman
Two best friends struggle to have a baby until two very sexy young men enter the picture!
MARCH 17 at 8p.m. READING in the main rehearsal hall $5
HIGHER by Carey Perloff
A couple, both architects, find themselves vying for the same prize in this thrilling work by the artistic director of San Francisco’s American Conservatory Theatre.
MARCH 26 & 27 at 8p.m. STAGED READING with moderated talkback in the Cook Theatre $10
FIZZ by Rogelio Martinez
A play about outsiders, the American capitalist system and the recipe for New Coke.
MARCH 27 at 2p.m. STAGED PRODUCTION in the Cook Theatre $5 students/$7 adults
LEND US YOUR VOICE an encore performance of original ensemble works, devised by area high school students from community interviews as source material. This play is appropriate for young audiences.
APRIL 2 at 8p.m. STAGED READING with moderated talkback in the Cook Theatre $10
APRIL 3 at 2p.m. STAGED READING with moderated talkback in the Cook Theatre $10
LOVE & IRONY by Craig Lucas
A new play from Greenfield Prize-winning, internationally renowned playwright Craig Lucas.
APRIL 3 in the Mezzanine lobby immediately following the 2 p.m. reading and talkback
Greenfield Prize Play Celebration and Closing Reception
The closing reception is valued at $15 and only available as part of the All-Access Pass.
All-Access passes are $45. Mini pass is $20 and includes a table reading and two staged readings. Plays run $5-$10 a day. For more info: 351-8000. The event will be held at the FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota.
Other theater fare:
Aside from the festival, check out the theater's next free Late Night Series Event at 2 p.m. March 13 and 8 p.m. March 14 in the Cook Theatre. FSU/Asolo Conservatory for Actor Training students will present "The Shawl" by David Mamet.
Details of "The Shawl":
A One Act Play in Four Acts
A grieving daughter’s desperate search for answers leads her to seek the help of a self- professed medium in Mamet’s lyrical exploration of chance, fate and the power of spiritual knowledge.
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