The Mudworks and Friends First Annual Art Show and Sale took place at 3 Moons Yoga* in Delaware Water Gap, PA on October 27th and 28th. The exhibition featured a variety of crafts and designs create by numerous artists including Shelly of Willow of the Wisp Dolls*, Ursula Pooley of Me Crazy Jewelry*, Jo Ann Stratakos of Mudworks pottery*, and Jone Bush of Wander Wheel Studio. Arline M. Smeltz* was among the many who visited the event. Please contact 3 Moons Yoga* at 570-730-2026 for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Mudworks Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Haunted Sherman Theatre
The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA presented their Annual Haunted Theatre event on October 26th and 27th featuring a horrifying experience climaxing with a Midnight screening of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show on the final evening. The film was preceded by party and the audience participation was led by Sweet Translucent Dreams. Many of those who’ve never seen the movie live were devirginalized. Cheryl Yost*, Bill Kelly*, Richard Berkowitz*, and Arline M. Smeltz* were among those who participated in the Haunted theatre while Neil and Jessica Johnson* were among those who enjoyed the terror inflicted upon them. The Sherman’s* next event will be their presentation of “Bargain-The Who Tribute Band” on Saturday November 3rd. Please contact The Sherman Theatre* at 570-420-2808 for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Haunted Sherman Theatre Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Lofty Sherman Skiers
The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA presented The Loft Ski Shop’s film event featuring skiers from around the world on Thursday October 25th. It was a fascinating look at the skill involved in the sport that often elevates itself to an art form. The talent demonstrated in the film was uncanny and few among the audience may have the skills to match it. Cheryl Yost*, Bill Kelly*, Richard Berkowitz*, and Arline M. Smeltz* along with were among those who enjoyed the event. The Sherman’s* next event will be their Haunted Theatre on October 26th and 27th. Please contact The Sherman Theatre* at 570-420-2808 for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Lofty Sherman Skiers at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
A Choice Audition
Over The Edge Productions* held auditions for a new play written and directed by John Cusumano* entitled, “Choices” at The School of Visual and Performing Arts (SVPA)* in Stroudsburg, PA on Sunday October 21st. Marie Steeger*, Chris Webster*, and Michael Wetmore* were among the many who allowed their talent to explore the characters they sought to play. The date of the performance is yet to be announced. Please contact Over The Edge Productions* at 570-801-3303 for more information. You’ll find numerous pictures at The Forwardian Arts Society A Choice Audition Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Theatrical Review: Schoolhouse Rock Live!
STEEL SCHOOLHOUSE ROCK LIVE!
Book by: Scott Ferguson, George Keating, and Klye Hall.
Music and Lyrics by: Lynn Ahrens, Bob Dorough*, Dave Frishberg, Kathy Mandry, George Newall, and Tom Yohe.
Directed by: Margaret Joyce Ball
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz
The East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* in East Stroudsburg, PA presented their Theatre Department’s production of “Schoolhouse Rock Live!” The play was originally adapted and produced for the stage by Theatre BAM from the memorable animation series shown between Saturday morning cartoons. For those of us who grew up during these broadcasts, not only learned something about Mathematics, U. S. History, Governmental procedures, and English Grammar, but we were also given a songbook which we stored in our subconscious to be taken out whenever we needed to relive our youth once again.
Experiencing this production of “Schoolhouse Rock Live!” reopened this songbook in a very delightful way. Although the play is directed toward elementary school children, those of us who have not quite grown up enjoyed it as well. Personally, there were many times I felt like singing along to the tunes I remembers only to have my very adult, theatrical critic stifle such expressions. However, these were later pushed aside but the exuberance of the performance and the audience members who were quite less inhibited.
“Schoolhouse Rock Live!” evolves around a young school teacher named, “Tom” (as portrayed by Robin A Kessler*) whose concerns and imagination brings his thoughts to the animation series and creates a cast characters who demonstrate their continued relevance in education. This ensemble cast consisted of Krista Beam, Michelle DiBella, Brian Foley*, Francesca Garrard, Kendra Getz (who also served in scene painting and set construction), Shamus Halloran, Rachel Mack, Jenell Anne Manzi, Christopher Palardy*, and Kristen Stachina.
Although I did find some slight flaws in the production like a few actors in the ensemble appearing with the blank stars associated with the thinking of their lines and dance steps and not being in the moment the play, I found it to be a very enjoyable experience enabling the creation of new memories and the resurrection of those lovingly placed in the past. The only other fault I find is the run of the show will be nearly completed by the time this review is published. This is very unfortunate as it deserves the audience a longer run would provide.
The Production was Directed Margaret Joyce Ball and Stage Managed by E. R. Koenig* who also served in scene painting and set construction. Samantha Avola and Alex Wirth served as the assistant Stage Managers while Erick served as The Lighting Designer and Paul W McKay served as Set designer and Technical Director. The scene painting and set construction were completed by Jason Barry*, Mathew Bouboulis, Katherine Burkard, Matty Colazzo, Kenneth Garry, Rich Gross, and Angelo Revillo*.
This production of “Schoolhouse Rock Live!” will continue its run at The Fine and Performing Arts Building on the Campus of East Stroudsburg University (ESU) in East Stroudsburg, PA until October 21st. Tickets can be reserved by calling 570-422-3483. Their next production will be “The Laramie Project by Moises Kaufman November 27th thought December 2nd. This play is recommended to those who would like to reopen the educational songbooks of their youthful hearts.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
Book by: Scott Ferguson, George Keating, and Klye Hall.
Music and Lyrics by: Lynn Ahrens, Bob Dorough*, Dave Frishberg, Kathy Mandry, George Newall, and Tom Yohe.
Directed by: Margaret Joyce Ball
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz
The East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* in East Stroudsburg, PA presented their Theatre Department’s production of “Schoolhouse Rock Live!” The play was originally adapted and produced for the stage by Theatre BAM from the memorable animation series shown between Saturday morning cartoons. For those of us who grew up during these broadcasts, not only learned something about Mathematics, U. S. History, Governmental procedures, and English Grammar, but we were also given a songbook which we stored in our subconscious to be taken out whenever we needed to relive our youth once again.
Experiencing this production of “Schoolhouse Rock Live!” reopened this songbook in a very delightful way. Although the play is directed toward elementary school children, those of us who have not quite grown up enjoyed it as well. Personally, there were many times I felt like singing along to the tunes I remembers only to have my very adult, theatrical critic stifle such expressions. However, these were later pushed aside but the exuberance of the performance and the audience members who were quite less inhibited.
“Schoolhouse Rock Live!” evolves around a young school teacher named, “Tom” (as portrayed by Robin A Kessler*) whose concerns and imagination brings his thoughts to the animation series and creates a cast characters who demonstrate their continued relevance in education. This ensemble cast consisted of Krista Beam, Michelle DiBella, Brian Foley*, Francesca Garrard, Kendra Getz (who also served in scene painting and set construction), Shamus Halloran, Rachel Mack, Jenell Anne Manzi, Christopher Palardy*, and Kristen Stachina.
Although I did find some slight flaws in the production like a few actors in the ensemble appearing with the blank stars associated with the thinking of their lines and dance steps and not being in the moment the play, I found it to be a very enjoyable experience enabling the creation of new memories and the resurrection of those lovingly placed in the past. The only other fault I find is the run of the show will be nearly completed by the time this review is published. This is very unfortunate as it deserves the audience a longer run would provide.
The Production was Directed Margaret Joyce Ball and Stage Managed by E. R. Koenig* who also served in scene painting and set construction. Samantha Avola and Alex Wirth served as the assistant Stage Managers while Erick served as The Lighting Designer and Paul W McKay served as Set designer and Technical Director. The scene painting and set construction were completed by Jason Barry*, Mathew Bouboulis, Katherine Burkard, Matty Colazzo, Kenneth Garry, Rich Gross, and Angelo Revillo*.
This production of “Schoolhouse Rock Live!” will continue its run at The Fine and Performing Arts Building on the Campus of East Stroudsburg University (ESU) in East Stroudsburg, PA until October 21st. Tickets can be reserved by calling 570-422-3483. Their next production will be “The Laramie Project by Moises Kaufman November 27th thought December 2nd. This play is recommended to those who would like to reopen the educational songbooks of their youthful hearts.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
Monday, October 08, 2007
Theatrical Review: Steel Magnolias
STEEL MAGNOLIAS
Written by: Robert Harling
Directed by: Sue Butler
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz
The Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA presented The Center Stage Players* production of Robert Harling‘s “Steel Magnolias” on their main stage. The play was the basis of the film of the same name which has become a cinematic icon for many.
The film has become well known for its rarity in presenting a small ensemble cast without the special effects or the other overstated characteristics attributed to a successful film. The play, “Steel Magnolias,” brings the audience’s focus more pointedly back to the ensemble cast and the experiences they encounter by making these experiences more real for us through the more physical presence of those living them. In other words, a live performance of the play provides something a film version can not. No matter how well the film is made or how faithful it is to the source material, film has a distancing effect on its audience while theatre often eliminates such effects.
I would normally take this time in a reviews to relay the plot of the play but to do so would ruin the enjoyment of the production. However, the play is not so much about what happens on stage as it is about how the characters respond to the situations they find themselves in and the support they gain from the friendship they have in one another. This attribute elevates the play as we realize this is a lesson which could be applied to our daily lives.
Many of us go through life thinking it’s just a series of experiences. But, these experiences are not our lives nor do they define us. How we respond to these experiences and how we accept and give support to those around us either enhances or diminishes the quality of our lives. “Steel Magnolias” reminds us we’re not defined by our circumstances but by how we meet them.
“Steel Magnolias” cast consists of Midge McClosky* who portrayed Truvy (the owner of Truvy;s Beauty Shop where the entire play takes place), Kathi Spigelmyer who portrayed Annelle (the new beautician who grow in her awareness and spirituality as her life progresses), Michele Frankenberg who portrayed Clairee (the receptionist and friend of Truvy), Pat Van Varick who portrayed Ouiser (a cantankerous woman whose negative outlook on life is often overshadowed by the love she has for and from her friends), Katherine Neville who portrayed M’ Lynn (the mother of a bride to be who learns to allow her child to grow into her life and beyond), and Sara Ferguson who portrayed Shelby (M’ Lynn’s daughter who embarks on a life of her own).
To say the play was well acted would be a very gross understatement. Each actress brought to their role a depth seldom seen in local theatre. Together, this ensemble cast brought a meaningfulness to the production through their combined strengths. The production itself presented the exact blend of humor and pathos needed to honor the work and make it an enjoyable theatrical experience to everyone involved.
The Production was Directed Sue Butler and Jack Butler served as the Assistant director. Both were responsible for the very well designed set as they had the authentic feel of a salon. “Steel Magnolias” was Stage Managed by Lillian Ramirez-Gonzalez with the lighting designed by Arthur Ritter.
This production of “Steel Magnolias” by Robert Harling will continue its run at The Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA until October 28th. Tickets can be reserved by calling 570-421-5093 or by exploring their website at www.theshawneeplayhouse.com. This play is recommended to those who like to see how they are more than their experiences demonstrated before their eyes.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
Written by: Robert Harling
Directed by: Sue Butler
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz
The Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA presented The Center Stage Players* production of Robert Harling‘s “Steel Magnolias” on their main stage. The play was the basis of the film of the same name which has become a cinematic icon for many.
The film has become well known for its rarity in presenting a small ensemble cast without the special effects or the other overstated characteristics attributed to a successful film. The play, “Steel Magnolias,” brings the audience’s focus more pointedly back to the ensemble cast and the experiences they encounter by making these experiences more real for us through the more physical presence of those living them. In other words, a live performance of the play provides something a film version can not. No matter how well the film is made or how faithful it is to the source material, film has a distancing effect on its audience while theatre often eliminates such effects.
I would normally take this time in a reviews to relay the plot of the play but to do so would ruin the enjoyment of the production. However, the play is not so much about what happens on stage as it is about how the characters respond to the situations they find themselves in and the support they gain from the friendship they have in one another. This attribute elevates the play as we realize this is a lesson which could be applied to our daily lives.
Many of us go through life thinking it’s just a series of experiences. But, these experiences are not our lives nor do they define us. How we respond to these experiences and how we accept and give support to those around us either enhances or diminishes the quality of our lives. “Steel Magnolias” reminds us we’re not defined by our circumstances but by how we meet them.
“Steel Magnolias” cast consists of Midge McClosky* who portrayed Truvy (the owner of Truvy;s Beauty Shop where the entire play takes place), Kathi Spigelmyer who portrayed Annelle (the new beautician who grow in her awareness and spirituality as her life progresses), Michele Frankenberg who portrayed Clairee (the receptionist and friend of Truvy), Pat Van Varick who portrayed Ouiser (a cantankerous woman whose negative outlook on life is often overshadowed by the love she has for and from her friends), Katherine Neville who portrayed M’ Lynn (the mother of a bride to be who learns to allow her child to grow into her life and beyond), and Sara Ferguson who portrayed Shelby (M’ Lynn’s daughter who embarks on a life of her own).
To say the play was well acted would be a very gross understatement. Each actress brought to their role a depth seldom seen in local theatre. Together, this ensemble cast brought a meaningfulness to the production through their combined strengths. The production itself presented the exact blend of humor and pathos needed to honor the work and make it an enjoyable theatrical experience to everyone involved.
The Production was Directed Sue Butler and Jack Butler served as the Assistant director. Both were responsible for the very well designed set as they had the authentic feel of a salon. “Steel Magnolias” was Stage Managed by Lillian Ramirez-Gonzalez with the lighting designed by Arthur Ritter.
This production of “Steel Magnolias” by Robert Harling will continue its run at The Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA until October 28th. Tickets can be reserved by calling 570-421-5093 or by exploring their website at www.theshawneeplayhouse.com. This play is recommended to those who like to see how they are more than their experiences demonstrated before their eyes.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
October Evening on Main
The Jacob Stroud Corporation* (www.stroudsburg.net) in Stroudsburg, PA held their monthly Evening on Main event on Saturday October 6th. A great number of visual and performing artists lent their talents to help make the evening a wonderful event for all who come to experience it. These included an exhibition entitled, “Structured Randomness” at The ArtSpace Gallery* (www.spezmedia.com/artspace) which featured a wide range of works by Greg Waltzer* (www.gregwaltzer.com) along with a gallery performances by New Atlantis* (www.newatlantismusic.com). Other Opening Receptions included work by new artist Chance Tedesco whose work was shown at The D. R.‘s Custom Design Framing and Art Gallery featuring a variety of charcoal, acrylic, and graphite pieces. The works of these artists brought a balance of serenity and excitement to their viewers as they explored the meaningful intricacies of Greg Waltzer’s* work and looked afresh through the new eyes of Chance Tedesco.
However, it is worthwhile noting a revelation I and other attendees of the Evening on Main St. Stroudsburg had during the event. Art exhibition are not confined to designated galleries but can be found in any venue and in any circumstances; even those dwelling in the human heart. This revelation was well demonstrated in The Yellow Moon Boutique (www.yellowmoonboutique.com) whose show entitled, “An Autumn Showing” featured the Watercolor Paintings of Thomas Augusta. These works not only enhanced the merchandise populating the boutique, but they along with the atmosphere they helped create elevated the appreciation of the arts and where they can be found.
Jane and Don Slepian* (www.donslepian.com) along with Will Daskal*(www.willdaskal.com) and his wife were among the many friends I met during the evening. However, I have made many new friends which was a wonderful treat making the event even more meaningful to me. I do welcome any of you who would like to share their recollections the event with me. The exhibitions will continue until the end of October. Please contact The Jacob Stroud Corporation at 570-424-9131 for more information. You’ll find Numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society October Evening on Main Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
However, it is worthwhile noting a revelation I and other attendees of the Evening on Main St. Stroudsburg had during the event. Art exhibition are not confined to designated galleries but can be found in any venue and in any circumstances; even those dwelling in the human heart. This revelation was well demonstrated in The Yellow Moon Boutique (www.yellowmoonboutique.com) whose show entitled, “An Autumn Showing” featured the Watercolor Paintings of Thomas Augusta. These works not only enhanced the merchandise populating the boutique, but they along with the atmosphere they helped create elevated the appreciation of the arts and where they can be found.
Jane and Don Slepian* (www.donslepian.com) along with Will Daskal*(www.willdaskal.com) and his wife were among the many friends I met during the evening. However, I have made many new friends which was a wonderful treat making the event even more meaningful to me. I do welcome any of you who would like to share their recollections the event with me. The exhibitions will continue until the end of October. Please contact The Jacob Stroud Corporation at 570-424-9131 for more information. You’ll find Numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society October Evening on Main Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
Friday, October 05, 2007
Spooky Sherman Meetings II
The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA held their second meeting to plan this year’s Haunted Theatre Event on Friday October 5th. The Actual event will be held October 26th and 27th. Ideas from the first meeting were furthered along proving the people involved are a sick group of individuals. Cheryl Yost*, Bill Kelly*, and Arline M. Smeltz* along with Richard and Catherine Berkowitz* were among those who contributed their ideas toward the event. The next meeting to plan The Haunted Theatre Event will be announced soon but they are still in need of numerous volunteers to participate as actors in the individual rooms and props of all kinds. The more grotesque the better. Please contact The Sherman Theatre* at 570-420-2808 for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Spooky Sherman Meetings Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Sherman Feats
The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA presented the classic rock band “Little Feat” on Monday October 1st. The band was preceded by a local group called, “The Scott Weis Band” whose music not only served as a satisfying prelude to the main feature but also held their own to the point an audience member might forfeit their expectations anything was to follow. This was simply because the musical need was fulfilled by this fantastic band. Yet, more music was to come enhancing everything that came before. Fans of “Little Feat” sang along with each song and danced to every beat. It was a lively show to say the least but that doesn‘t mean more can be said in appreciation to the concert and to The Sherman Theatre* who made it happen. Richard Berkowitz*, Cheryl Yost*, Theresa Woehrel*, and Bill Kelly* (all of the Sherman) were there along with Scot Flax* of NEMO Magazine, Arline M. Smeltz*, and Gary Lambert*. The next show at The Sherman Theatre* will be Waidestock 2007 featuring a variety of bands performing music from a variety of sounds including rock, alternative, punk, and ska on Saturday October 20th. Please contact at The Sherman Theatre* at 570-420-2808 for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Sherman Feats Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
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