Wednesday, December 31, 2008

A COTA Christmas at The Sherman

The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA and The Celebration of the Arts (COTA)* of Delaware Water Gap, PA co-hosted “The COTA* Christmas Benefit Show” on Monday December 29th. Proceeds from the event benefited The Sherman Theatre* Capital 30 Campaign whose funds will be utilized to continue its restoration and architectural revitalization work and to The COTA* Hurricane Hannah Rain-our Recovery Fund created to recoup the financial losses incurred by the storm’s effects on its 31st Annual Jazz and Arts Festival during the second day of its three day event held September 2008. The evening held a wonderful opportunity for fans of the Annual event to enhance their memories of the Festival while creating new ones as they continued to celebrate the holiday season in the historic surroundings of The Sherman Theatre*.

The evening began with a pre-show VIP Reception for those who were able to partake of the Benefactor’s Package in The Sherman Theatre’s Lobby. The VIP Reception featured the music of “The Lobby Elves” which consisted of Mark Hamza* on Accordion, Jay Rattman* www.myspace.com/jayrattman on Clarinet, Bobby Avery on Piano, Evan Gregor* on Base, and Matt Vashlishin on Alto Sax. Numerous vendors often seen at The Annual festival were on hand to offer their wares to those who attended. Among them were Mudworks and Friends* www.mudworkspotterypa.com, Wisp of Willows (??), Artist Tim Helman*, Get Lit Stained Glass getlitstainedglass@comcast.net, and Fabric Artist Liz Pemberton*. A delicious spread of food was provided by Lauren Elizabeth Catering which satisfied the taste buds of all who enjoyed the special appetizer to the main show.

The COTA* Christmas Show began with a performance by the much beloved Nellie McKay* whose talents mesmerized and enchanted all who experienced her musical talents. While she performed with her Ukulele and Puppet, she was joined by Nelson Hill* on Alto Sax, COTA* Co-Founder Rich Chamberlain* on Trombone, Spencer Reed* on Guitar, Bill Goodwin* on Drums, and Jim Daniels* on Tuba. The magical tone of the evening was set which even led to some delightful sightings of a Christmas Spirit resembling Ms. McKay during the intermission.

The evening continued with Eric Doney* and The Pacific Street Swinging Jingle Singers featuring the voices of Bobby Avery, Chris Connors*, Bret Cartwright, Vicki Doney* myspace.com/cotafestival, Ann Yale, Alex Staneski*, Gabrielle Posa, Marilou Tshudy, Kim Best, Dave Dion, Bob Hartman, Bill Stine, Rick Bullock, and Len Mooney*. The selections consisted of some holiday favorites along with some original works composed for the occasion. These wonderful voices where joined by COTA* Co-Founder and The 2008 PA Governor’s Awards for excellence in the arts Phil Woods* on Alto Sax.

After the delight of The Pacific Street Swinging Jingle Singers concluded, Spencer Reed* presented a special Jingle Jam featuring the best of the best among the Jazz musicians who have performed in The COTA* Jazz and Arts Festivals throughout the year. The set was presented as a small ensemble of musicians who were constantly replaced by their peers. This resulted in a variety of styles reflecting the talents each performer brought to their instrument. The Jingle Jam consisted of Barbara McMahon and Gina Bertucci taking their turns on Flute, Phil Woods* and Nelson Hill* taking their turns on Alto Sax, Dave Leibman* on Tenor Sax, Patrick Dorian on Trumpet, Rick Chamberlain* and Jim Daniels* taking their turns on Trombone, Mark Williams* www.myspace.com/markwilliamsmusic on Electric Guitar, Paul Rostock* www.myspace.com/paulrostockbass and Jennifer Leitham* www.jenniferleitham.com taking their turns on Bass, Bill Goodwin* and Sherrie Maricle taking their turns on Drums, David Lantz* and Bob Dorough* taking their turns on Piano, and Nancy Reed* and Bob Dorough* who lent their distinguished voices to the performance.

The evening concluded with a performance by COTA* Cats Alums Big Band as led by Tom Fadden, Jim Daniels, and Pat Dorian. The band featured former COTA* Cats who participated in the special Jazz Music Scholarship Program COTA* has developed throughout the years. This annual program seeks out music students of the area school districts who demonstrate considerable talents who are then tutored by an established Jazz artist in order to temper their skills so the fullness of their love for the musical form can be fully realized. The manifestations of these realizations are demonstrated every year during the Annual festivals by a Special Performance which never fails to delight the audience. College Scholarships are awarded every year to those COTA* Cats who show exceptional promise and many were among the special Alum that night.

The years of training during their years of studying and practice enhanced their original performances at the annual festival which were of a high quality to begin with. The Alum COTA* Cats Big Band consisted of Matt Vatican (COTA* Class of 2001), Wayne Bishop (COTA* Class of 2005), Jay Rattman* (COTA* Class of 2006), Lance Rauh (COTA* Class of 1995), and Tim Reiche on Saxophones, Venessa Meggiorlaro (COTA* Class of 2003), Dan Coyle (COTA* Class of 1997), Kenny Luckey (COTA* Class of 2005), Marcel Bellinger (COTA* Class of 2006), and Jonathan Heim (COTA* Class of 2007) on Trumpets, Najwa Parkins (COTA* Class of 2004), Joe Lynch (COTA* Class of 2002), Brendan Vavra (COTA* Class of 2004), Kathryn Vallilee (COTA* Class of 2008), and Tom Lehman* (COTA* Class of 2006) on Trombones, Bobby Avery (COTA* Class of 2003) on Piano, Evan Gregor* (COTA* Class of 2000) on Bass, and Chuck Cooper* (COTA* Class of 1995) along with Shane Velsor on Drums. Special Arrangements of compositions were written by Phil Woods* and Bob Dorough*. Phil Woods* and Bob Dorough* joined the Orchestra in the performance of Bob Dorough’s composition entitled, “Blue Christmas.” Vicki Doney* also joined the orchestra lending her voice to some wonderful holiday tunes which led to the conclusion of the evening’s event which many in the sizable audience hopes will be an annual one.

“The COTA Christmas Benefit Show” was coordinated by Richard Chamberlain* as assisted by Lauren Chamberlain*, Kent Heckman and Glen Kern worked the sound system while Garth Woods* served as the official COTA* Photographer. Terrence Gaughan designed the poster while Patricia Gaughan provided publicity and editorial assistance. Tim Helman coordinated the Artisans.

There were a great number of people who experienced the event and attempting to name all of Our Good Friends who attended would lead to forgetting a few in the process. Therefore, I ask those of you who would like to share your recollections of the evening to do so. I welcome your comments and I’m sure many who read them would appreciate them as well. The next shows at The Sherman Theatre* will be The Bands for Bren Benefit Concert on Friday January 9th at 6pm and Winterfest on Saturday January 31st from 11am until 11pm. Please Explore The Sherman Theatre* Website for more information. This year’s Celebration of the Arts (COTA)* Jazz and Arts Festival will take place September 11th - 13th in Delaware Water Gap, PA. There is a great need for volunteers in many areas. Please Explore The COTA* Website at www.cotajazz.org for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society A COTA Christmas at The Sherman Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

Sunday, December 28, 2008

Pocono Jams The Sherman

The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA hosted “A Christmas Jam in the Poconos” on Saturday December 27th featuring numerous Jam Bands emanating from the Monroe County, PA Area. Those performing included “The Hot John Travoltas,” The Roamin’ Gabriels,* (www.myspace.com/roamingabriels1)” “Cabinet (www.myspace.com/cabinetwax),” “Liquid Sunshine* (www.myspace.com/liquidsunshinepa),” “Juggling Suns (www.myspace.com/jugglingsuns),” and several unscheduled appearances which enhanced the event. The audience was unusually small for this holiday concert but it proved to be a wonderful night for those who recuperated enough from the family gatherings common this time of year to venture to The Sherman Theatre* that night.

The evening included a variety of musical styles ranging from Jazz and Bluegrass to Folk and tunes reminiscent of “The Grateful Dead.” People were seated during the beginning of the Jam Concert but they were soon on their feet dancing and swaying to the music which delighted their senses. The event also served to benefit The Monroe County Children and Youth Services whose Special Holiday CD comprising of a songs local musicians and singers contributed their talents toward was on sale to help fund their “Wishmakers” project. A video from the CD was shown during the show featuring those who participated in the song.

Among those attending were Richard Berkowitz*, Theresa Woehrel*, Sean Montross*, Bill Kelly*, and Cheryl Yost* of The Sherman Theatre* along with Arline M. Smeltz*, Gary Lambert* and Philbert Robertson. Please feel free to share your reflections of the event as I’m sure others will be eager to learn of them. The next shows at The Sherman Theatre* will be The COTA* Christmas Special on Monday December 29th at 7:30pm, The Bands for Bren Benefit Concert on Friday January 9th at 6pm, and Winterfest on Saturday January 31st from 11am until 11pm. Please Explore The Sherman Theatre* Website for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Pocono Jams The Sherman Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

Wednesday, December 24, 2008

The 30th Annual Messiah Sing In

The Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA held their 30th Annual Sing-In of Handel‘s “Messiah” on Monday December 22nd which featured a professional orchestra ensemble and soloists who accompanied the voices of those members of the community who participated in the concert. The event was preceded by an Reception nearby at The Shawnee Gallery* whose eye catching art and hospitality warm the souls of those who were about to venture out into the cold to gather at The Shawnee Playhouse* to partake of the annual holiday event. It was a wonderful time to meet with friends made throughout the years and to discover new ones over a delightful glass of Eggnog.

This year’s concert was dedicated to the memory of Numa Snyder* who passed away early that morning and whose participation in the program will be missed although his presence will be felt by all who knew him for some time to come. This is especially true of me who learned a great deal from him while I served as a DJ on East Stroudsburg University’s* Radio Station (WESS FM) when I was a student there. Professor Emeritus Snyder presented a Swing Time Band Show along with his Sunday Afternoon Concerts consisting of Classical Music. He occasionally asked me to fill in when we was unavailable to present his programs and the experience not only broadened my understanding and appreciation for the musical styles but of life itself. This is something I shall take with me throughout my life and I shall always hold him in a place in my heart.

As indicated earlier, the community concert consisted of G. F. Handel’s Sacred Oratorio composed in 1741. The evening is comprised of an orchestra who included Wendy Davis (who also served as Concert Mistress), Carol Kraemer, Mary Anne Moore, Chris Souza, Brittany Smith, and Karl Viernstein on Violins, Betsy Buzzelli-Clark* (who also served as the Orchestra Coordinator), Marsha Cahn, and Ellen Yogey on Violas, Mercedes and Julia Jurkiewcz along with Margery Metzgar on Cellos, Jenny Collins on Piano (who also served as Accompanist), Gerry Geiger on Oboe, Tim Eick on Trumpet (who also served as a soloist), and Steve Mathiesen on Timpani. Those who shared their voices in the Solo and ensemble portions of the evening included Nancy Everden, Sara Ferguson*, Tassy Gilbert, Wendy and Gary Grise, Marjorie Groenwald, Chris Henry, Rob Howell*, Dan Hoy, Jim Maroney*, Midge McClosky*, Tom Revelle, Dale Veirnstein, and Michael Yasenchock. ESU Professor Terry Flatt joyfully conducted the orchestra and the featured singers along with the multitude of music lovers who were on hand to share their love for the work and the friendships they’ve developed during the years.

The 31st Annual Messiah Sing In is scheduled to take place December 22nd, 2009 while the next presentations at The Shawnee Playhouse* will be their production of “Pieces of Evelyn” by Betsy Jackson* to be performed January 17th - 25th and the classic “’Night Mother” to be performed January 31st - February 8th. The Shawnee Playhouse* offers a $2.00 to selected productions and The Shawnee Gallery (www.theshawneegallery.com) offers a 10% discount off the purchases of their items to Passionate Art Lovers of The Forwardian Arts Society. Please feel free to contact me for more information. Exploring The Shawnee Playhouse* Website will help you to gain more information about their upcoming production and an opportunity to reserve your ticket. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society The 30th Annual Messiah Sing In Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Vienna Returns to The Sherman

The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA continued its celebration of the season with a return performance by the popular Vienna Boys Choir on Thursday December 18th who presented a variety of pieces to delight the heart of everyone who attended the event. The selection of music included classical choral pieces, Austrian folk melodies, Broadway tunes, and US Folk songs.

The entirety of the program made for a thoroughly enjoyable evening. This was especially true when one detected a slight Austrian accent from the young boys while they were singing the English selections. It brought a charm to the pieces transcending the intent of their composers.

The sizable audience filled The Sherman Theatre* with their appreciation and holiday spirits bringing an aura of good will to the venue. However, it was difficult to ascertain whether it was the audience who were responsible for the wonderful feeling felt throughout The Sherman Theatre* that evening or was it The Sherman Theatre* and the presence of The Vienna Choir Boys who initiated the seasonal sensations. Regardless, it was a wonderful night which will continue to touch the heart of all who were a part of it.

As mentioned, there were a great number of people attending the program and many were Our Good Friends in The Forwardian Arts Society. It’s fortunate of us to have so many friends in our fellowship to be unable to name some without the concern of neglecting some in the doing. This is the case here. So, I would like to invite those of you who have been there to share your thoughts and reflections on your experiences. I’m sure many would like to learn and be inspired by your words.

The next shows at The Sherman Theatre* will be Eggnogapalooza on Friday December 19th beginning at 6pm as part of their Independent Rock Series featuring Patent Pending*, The Brightlife*, North of the City*, Pearl Heart, Slighlty Askew, Taste, and Suicide yes*, The Pocono Choral Society* presentation of their "Gloria! Gloria!" Concert on Sunday December 21st at 3pm celebrating this holiday season by performing both the John Rutter “Gloria” and the Francis Polenc “Gloria” with chorus, brass and other instruments continuing our 25-year Pocono Choral tradition in which the audience gets to join the chorus and musicians in a rousing signing of favorite carols, “Christmas Jam in the Poconos” on Saturday December 27th beginning at 7pm (Doors Opening at 6pm) featuring a variety of local bands jamming the night away, and The Celebration of the Arts (COTA)* Yuletide Jazz on Monday December 29th at 7:30pm featuring the premiere of the COTA Cats Alumni Big Band, Eric Doney’s* Pacific Street Swinging Jingle Singers and a jingle jam hosted by Spencer Reed* featuring jazz greats Phil Woods*, Dave Liebman*, Urbie and Jesse Green*, Bob Dorough*, Bill Goodwin*, Nellie McKay, Jay Rattman*, Davey Lantz*, and Mark Williams*. Please Explore The Sherman Theatre* Website for more information.

No photographs were allowed during the performance.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

Sunday, December 14, 2008

A Festival of Carols

The Jacob Stroud Corporation* in Stroudsburg, PA celebrated the holidays on Saturday December 13th with their Annual Festival of Carols featuring an evening filled with seasonal music, dance, and exhibitions which took place along Main St. Stroudsburg. Numerous shops, galleries, restaurants, Christian Churches. and art related organizations participated in this enchanting event. The chill in the air did little to displace the warmth the festival inspired as many who attended enjoy all it had to offer while greeting either friends they’ve know for years or the new ones they discovered that night.

There were many outdoor performances along Main Street as there were those which took place in doors. Those musicians and choirs sharing their talents outdoors included Dr. Tony and Friends, The Solid Rock Church Choir, The Light of the World Church Choir and Band www.lightoftheworldchurchpa.org, and the annual performance by The Merry Tuba Christmas Band as conducted by Dr. Otis French* of the East Stroudsburg University* Department of Music which was presented in the Courthouse Square. Among the many indoor performances held throughout the evening, those who came in to enjoy the toasty respite from their wintry explorations were greeted by The Jauggernaut String Band* www.juggernautstringband.com who played the Cajun tune they’ve been made famous for in The Aardvark Sports Shop, Jesse and Kristine Green* www.jessegreen.com whose soft and sultry renditions of Holiday classic entertained Jazz lovers in Josephine’s Fleur-de-lis, and a Teacher/Student Recital was held at The Fergus and Clark Academy for the Performing Arts* www.fergusandclark.com.

In addition to all this, the evening included some Strolling Street Performances by the legendary Blues band The Lost Ramblers* and the equally legendary Anita Bondi* and her Dance Company www.anitabondiandco.com performed some spontaneous, improvisational dance routines. There were also art exhibitions which included The Artspace Gallery* www.artspace-gallery.net who held their Annual Christmas Show and Sale. And, if that wasn’t enough, Mountain Carriages gave Horse-Drawn Carriage rides with their horse named Sugar and I saw Santa.

This year’s Festival of Carols proved to be a wonderful evening for the whole family. The music, art, and variety of food with warm beverages offered enhanced the holiday spirit of all who experienced it. Many left the evening filled with delightful memories and the anticipation of next year’s festival which takes place the second Saturday of every December. Please Explore The Jacob Stroud Corporation* Website for more information about them and their upcoming events and programs. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society A Festival of Carols Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

Saturday, December 13, 2008

Theatrical Review: Tiny Tim’s Christmas Carol

TINY TIM’S CHRISTMAS CAROL
Book by: Michael Harron* (Lyrics) and Rick Cummings (Music)
Based upon the novel “A Christmas carol” by Charles Dickens
Directed by: Michael Harron*
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz

The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA presented The Pennsylvania Reparatory Company’s* annual seasonal production of “Tiny Tim’s Christmas Carol” by Michael Harron* and Rick Cummings which is based upon the novel “A Christmas carol” by Charles Dickens. However, it’s important to note this work is (as it’s title implies) not Charles Dickens’ Christmas Carol but Tiny Tim’s as seen from his perspective. Keeping this in mind allows an audience member to enjoy the play more thoroughly without wondering if anything occurring onstage is what the famous author intended.

The play draw its similarities to the novel by being about an old and embittered miser named Ebenezer Scrooge (as portrayed by Michael Harron*) who is visited by a number of spirits who show him the errors of his ways thus transforming him into a joyous benefactor. Charles Dickens said the novel was a parable about the business community and served as a warning it had best changed it’s greed filled ways or it’ll be destined to collapse with few shedding a tear for its departure. This may have been a perspective worthwhile pursuing in these economic times but this would no longer be Tiny Tim’s Christmas Carol and its charm would be diminished.

The play itself proves to be an enjoyable holiday experience which is eagerly awaited by its audience every year. The acting is very well done as is the quality of the musical numbers. The quality of the acting in this production can be seen through the production necessity of multiple casting of a number of its roles.

In many productions when actors are called upon to perform more than one characters, the audience often see a performance which is merely a variation of one character. This was far from being true in this production. The distinction the actors presented between each character they portrayed was such, this reviewer was constantly checking to program to see if the actor was the same person as seen before.

This well acted production consists of Conor Naughton (who portrayed Tiny Tim), Tim Naughton (who portrayed Bob Cratchit), Charles Rosa (who portrayed Mr. Clay and Father Scrooge), Maureen Harms (who portrayed Mrs. Blythe), Ryan Moore (who portrayed Fred and Young Scrooge), Hugh Halsey (who portrayed John Edmond, Male Guest, and the Ghost of Christmas Future), Sydney Southland (who portrayed a Constable and Female Guest # 1), Sean Gaughan (who portrayed a Constable and Teen Scrooge), Amy Cramer* (who portrayed Mrs. Cratchit), Katherine Dodel (who portrayed Martha Cratchit and Belle), Ahna Kollar (who portrayed Belinda Cratchit), Andrew McCarthy (who portrayed Peter Cratchit and Boy on the Street), Byrdie Jacques (who portrayed Mrs. Dilber and served as costumer and in props), Marty Courtney* (who portrayed Marley‘s Ghost and Mr. Fezziwig), Beth Dollard* (who portrayed Ghost of Christmas Past), Madison Joyce (who portrayed Child Fan), Madison Cerniglia (who portrayed Boy Scrooge), Jullian Andres (who portrayed Teen Fan), Jan Brighton (who portrayed Mrs. Fezziwig and Mrs. Haversham), Matt Christie* (who portrayed Young Jacob Marley and Joe the Pawnshop Keeper), Lauren Santarelli* (who portrayed Adult Fan, Gloria), Samantha Muniz (who portrayed Fred‘s Daughter), Liam Naughton (who portrayed Fred‘s Son), Robb Taylor (who portrayed Ghost of Christmas Present whose elves were played by Caileen Dollard, Delaney Dollard, Emily Carmella, and Maria Johnson), Lynda Bolan (who portrayed Female Guest # 2), and Villagers who were portrayed by Mary Bolan, Sophia Lovito, Alyssa Palmigiano, Jessica Oney, Mackenzie Maula, Sophia Pipalo, Sofia Schembari, Kyrsten Bowman, Amanda Franzo, Gabi Wilder, Alyson Wilder, and James Durham.

“Tiny Tim’s Christmas Carol” by Michael Harron* and Rick Cummings and based upon the novel “A Christmas carol” by Charles Dickens was Directed by Michael Harron* and Stage managed by Victoria Kollar as assited by Joanne Barbetta. The Musical Director was Susan Wilkins with the Musical Staging provided by Kelly Foley*. Curt Burton was Lighting Designer with Katie Burton and Julius Kollar on the Lightboard while the sound was provided by Glen Kern*. Al Rauch served in the prop department while Mark Dodel, Mike Brightman, Kevin Bolan, Marcy Wilder*, Carman Muniz, June Jegilinski, Ashley Wilder, Julia Leanard, Deb Cerniglia, Karen Schember, and Tracy Martin served in the Stage Crew.

The Pennsylvania Reparatory Company’s* annual seasonal production of “Tiny Tim’s Christmas Carol” as performed at The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA proved to be a wonderful addition to the holidays filled with some very good acting and musical numbers. The only unfortunate aspect of this production is it‘s short run for the general public which ends Saturday December 13th. However, a number of students in the area school districts did have the opportunity to experience it as the show is part of The Pennsylvania Reparatory Company’s* “Plays in the Curriculum Series” which was performed for those studying the works of Dickens in their perspective schools. More information on The Pennsylvania Reparatory Company* programs and futures productions by visiting their website at myspace.com/pennsylvaniarepcompany Please contact The Sherman Theatre* at 570-420-2808 or visit their website for more information on their future shows for the holiday season.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

Note: No Photographs were taken during the performance of this production.

Sunday, December 07, 2008

A Holy Day at Kirkridge

The Kirkridge Retreat Center* in Bangor, PA celebrated the holidays on Sunday December 7th with an evening filled with music, fellowship, and a delicious turkey Potluck Dinner. The evening began with some comedy provided by Young Peter and continued with a wonderful selection of holiday tunes performed by Maria. A special reading of a classic children book was done by Mary Ellen before the gathering of friends adjourned into the dining area where everyone was met with a feast beyond imagination.

The dinner conversation was as varied as the selection of culinary treats the participants brought to the celebration. The menu included philosophy, enlightenment, and a great deal of affection for the friends made throughout the years along with those discovered that night. As warming as the feast was, it did not surpass the warming sensations Kirkridge* has for the souls of those who gather there. Among those who shared their spirit with others were Don and Alice Murray*, Nancy Scheirer*, and Jean Richardson* of Kirkridge* along with Arline M. Smeltz* and Mark Litchy*.

Please Explore The Kirkridge Retreat Center* Website for more information about the center and upcoming programs. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society A Holy Day at Kirkridge Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

Saturday, December 06, 2008

An Irish Christmas at The Sherman

The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA celebrated the season with “A Classic Irish Christmas” on December 6th hosted by Singer/Song Writer Andy Cooney. The Show featured Songstress Annette Griffin, Comic George Casey, and The Darrah Carr Dancers who were Alina Grzegorzewski, Caitlin McNeill, and Melissa Padham. Musicians Accompanying the company were The Musical Director and Keyboardist Brian “Bugs” Moran, Jimmy Kelly on Drums, Colm Graham on Guitar, and Mitch Reilly on Sax, Flutes, and Whistles. To learn more about the show and to learn of their upcoming performance schedule, please feel free to explore www.andycooney.com for more information.

The evening at The Sherman Theatre* was filled with the enchantments often associated with the Emerald Isle especially refined during the holiday season. The medium sized audience were treated with a selection of traditional carols along with some original works which delighted the heart. However, bodies were moved to tap their toes, clap their hands, and share some laughter as this entertaining evening progressed. Among those who experienced the show were Richard Berkowitz* and Cheryl Yost* of The Sherman Theatre along with Jim Lambert*.

The next shows at The Sherman Theatre* will be The Pennsylvania Repertory Company’s* Production of “Tiny Tim’s Christmas Carol” on December 12th and 13th along with A Celebration of Youth Through Music at 6pm on Sunday December 14th, The Vienna Choir Boys at 7:30pm on Thursday December 18th, and The Pocono Choral Society’s* presentation of their holiday concert entitled, “Gloria! Gloria!” at 3pm on Sunday December 21st. Please Explore The Sherman Theatre* Website for more information. You’ll find several photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society An Irish Christmas at The Sherman Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

Friday, December 05, 2008

Too Human For The Library

The Eastern Monroe Public Library (EMPL)* in Stroudsburg, PA presented “Too Human” on Friday December 5th as part of their Bookhouse Concert Series. The group performed an eclectic mix of Jazz, Pop, Folk, Blues, and original works interspersed with a series of personal stories delighting the audience who felt at home with their welcoming presence. Several of their tunes can be found online at their website which is www.toohumanonline.com and are available for purchase.

Among those the sizable gathering present to enjoy the music and all it inspires were Rob Ramos* and Linnae Cintron* of The EMPL* along with Arline M. Smeltz. More information regarding The Eastern Monroe Public Library along with their schedule of Bookhouse Concerts for 2009 can be found at their website. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Too Human For The Library Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

ESU String Fest

The East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* of PA Department of Music presented its Community Holiday String Fest on Thursday December 4th in ESU* in The Cecilia S. Cohen Recital Hall located in the Campus’ Fine and Performing Arts Center featuring the University/Community String Orchestra as directed by Prof. Betsy Buzelli-Clark*. The program also featured The String Students of Christopher Souza. The sizable audience were treated to a variety of holiday tunes both modern and classical. The appearance of the children who are studying the violin with Christopher Souza added a charm to the evening as their eager discover of what their instruments can do touch every heart. This included an impressive solo performance by Moriah Crawford.

Among those who lent their talents to the entertaining evening were Lauren Noyes*, Breanna Goldner*, and many more. The sizable audience were filled with many good friends and it would be impossible to name them all without neglecting some. However, I invite you to make yourself known and to share your reflections of the evening by commenting on this article. I know many who read this would love to learn of your experiences through your words.

The next programs to be presented at ESU* will be their Winter Band Concert on Sunday December 7th at 7pm and their Student Voice recitals on Tuesday December 9th at 7 and 8:30pm all in the Cecilia S. Cohen Recital Hall. Please contact ESU* at 570-422-3483 for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society ESU String Fest Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

Honoring the Arts

The East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* of PA Society for the Arts* awarded Scholarships on Thursday December 4th in The ESU* Madelon Powers Gallery located in the Campus’ Fine and Performing Arts Center which is currently exhibiting the works of Prof. Maharu Lane* in a show entitled, “Painting on the Trail of the Hudson River School.” A variety of delicious treats enhanced the conversation among those who came to support ESU* and its dedication to the arts. The ceremonies began with some opening remarks by Dean Peter Hawkes of The ESU* Arts and Sciences Department and was soon followed by the awarding of the scholarships to students who have demonstrated not only an enormous talent in their creative disciplines but in their academic endeavors as well.

Prof. Maharu Lane* briefly introduced Adrienne Katz* before presenting her with The ESU Society for the Arts* Scholarship for her achievements in the Visual Arts, Prof. Elizabeth Gibbons* briefly introduced Jenna Lancaster* before presenting her with The ESU Society for the Arts* Scholarship for her achievements in the art of Dance, Prof. Betsy Buzzelli-Clark* briefly introduced David Lennox before presenting him with The ESU Society for the Arts* Scholarship for his achievements in Music, and Professors Stephanie French* and Margaret Ball briefly introduced Christi Barlane* before presenting her with The ESU Society for the Arts* Scholarship for her achievements in the Theatrical Arts.

Those among the supporters of these talented students were Arline M. Smeltz*, David Ausum*, Erma Duricko of the ESU* Theatre Department, and Darlene Farris LaBar of The ESU* Art Department. Please contact ESU* at 570-422-3483 for more information regarding Society for the Arts* and how you can participate. You’ll find numeerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Honoring the Arts Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.

Thursday, December 04, 2008

The ESU Winter Choral

The East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* of PA Department of Music presented its Winter Choral Concert on Wednesday December 3rd in ESU* in the Cecilia S. Cohen Recital Hall located in the Campus’ Fine and Performing Arts Center featuring the A Cappella Ensemble and their Concert Choir as directed by Prof. James Maroney. The program consisted of numerous classical works along with some seasonal pieces which delighted the large audience who attended. In addition to this, an impromptu concert was given by one of the students in the audience.

Among those who lent their voices to the entertaining evening were Arline M. Smeltz*, Jessica Bickel*, Brian Foley*, Michelle DiBella*, Dr. Otis French*, Christopher Palardy*, and many more. The sizable audience were filled with many good friends and it would be impossible to name them all without neglecting some. However, I invite you to make yourself known and to share your reflections of the evening by commenting on this article. I know many who read this would love to learn of your experiences through your words.

The next programs to be presented at ESU* will be their Community Holiday Spring Fest on Thursday December 4th at 7pm, their Winter Band Concert on Sunday December 7th at 7pm, and their Student Voice recitals on Tuesday December 9th at 7 and 8:30pm all in the Cecilia S. Cohen Recital Hall. Please contact ESU* at 570-422-3483 for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society The ESU Winter Choral Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.