The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA presented Keller Williams (www.KellerWilliams.net) on Sunday September 28th featuring Keith Mosley on Base, Gibb Droll on Guitar, and Jeff Sipe on Drums. The evening was filled with magic as the huge audience jammed along with the songs the band performed. It was a wild yet calm night indicative of the kind of experiences found in these extraordinary shows.
Those swaying, dancing, and allowing the music to take them to a higher consciousness included Richard Berkowitz*, Cheryl Yost*, Theresa Woehrel*, and Bill Kelly* all of The Sherman Theatre* along with Gary Lambert* and Arline M, Smeltz*.
The next shows at The Sherman Theatre* will be The Joe Bouchard Band which will be Opened by The Rob Carlton Band on Friday October 3rd at 8pm and the return of Raymond The Amish Comic on Saturday October 4th at 8pm. Please Explore The Sherman Theatre* Website at www.shermantheatre.com for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Jamming 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.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Karaoke Sherman
The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA presented a Karaoke Night entitled, “So You Think You Can Sing?” on Saturday September 27th featuring an opportunity for would be singing sensations to strut their stuff to their favorites tunes in front of a live and lively audience along with a professional sound system and stage lighting. A number of participants demonstrated an extraordinary talent and well deserved the supportive applause the audience share with them. There were, of course, some sour notes but this did not take away anything from the enjoyment of the event as it only enhances its sense of fund and frivolity for both the audience and participants. However, it was also a judged event and the winner received a recording session in the Sherman's recording studio while all proceeds went to benefit the PoconoArts Council* and The Sherman Theater* Capital Campaign.
The sizable audience included Richard Berkowitz*, Cheryl Yost*, and Bill Kelly* all of The Sherman Theatre* along with Our Friends From The Pocono Arts Council*, Suzanne McCool*, Arline M, Smeltz*. The next shows at The Sherman Theatre* will be The Keller Williams Concert on Sunday September 28th at 8pm featuring an unique experience for fans with blazing guitar wizardry and a masterful display of song craft, The Joe Bouchard Band Opened by The Rob Carlton Band on Friday October 3rd at 8pm, and the return of Raymond The Amish Comic on Saturday October 4th at 8pm.
Please Explore The Sherman Theatre* Website for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Karaoke Sherman Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
The sizable audience included Richard Berkowitz*, Cheryl Yost*, and Bill Kelly* all of The Sherman Theatre* along with Our Friends From The Pocono Arts Council*, Suzanne McCool*, Arline M, Smeltz*. The next shows at The Sherman Theatre* will be The Keller Williams Concert on Sunday September 28th at 8pm featuring an unique experience for fans with blazing guitar wizardry and a masterful display of song craft, The Joe Bouchard Band Opened by The Rob Carlton Band on Friday October 3rd at 8pm, and the return of Raymond The Amish Comic on Saturday October 4th at 8pm.
Please Explore The Sherman Theatre* Website for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Karaoke Sherman Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Theatrical Review: Morning’s at Seven
MORNING’S AT SEVEN
Written by: Paul Osborn
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 “Morning‘s At Seven” by Paul Osborn. The play is about a dysfunctional family from the 1930‘s who eventually learn from the adage, “You‘re only as sick as your secrets.” Their journey to this realization is filled with a great deal of humor which allowed each member of the audience to recognize their own relational peculiarities through a great deal of laughter.
The play was funny, produced well, and was an enjoyable theatrical experience. But, what made this production a real treat was to watch actors demonstrated their love for the theatrical arts performing on stage. This love went far beyond the love of being seen on stage to receive the adoration of fans (real or imagined). This love showed the dedication each actor has for his/her craft in which they endeavor to do the work to bring their character to life in a real and meaningful way. This work enhances the production and as it does the audience’s experience of it as they are more likely able to see themselves in each portrayal.
The cast consisted of Dave Hymes who portrayed Theodore (Thor) Swanson the Uncle often finds himself amazed by the antics of others, Pat Van Varick who portrayed Cora Swanson Thor’s wife who’s secret resentments creates in her a desire to live out their lives alone, Katherine Neville* (Center Stage Players’* Secretary) who portrayed Aaronetta Gibbs one of Cora’s sisters who lives with Cora and Thor while holding a secret about a dynamic of her relationship with them deep within her heart, Judy lawler who portrayed Ida Bolton Aaronetta and Cora’s sister and next door neighbor who is torn between her desire to have her son live with her forever and realizing his need to live his own life while endeavoring to hid the secret of her husband’s mental condition from the world, Jack Butler* who (while also serving as the Assistant Director) portrayed Carl Bolton Ida’s Husband who secret feelings of regret over his life’s decisions leads him to “spells” of debilitating depression, Patrick Turner* who portrayed Homer Bolton who secret conflicts between his desires to live his life while remaining his mother’s child leads to difficulties in realizing the full potentials of a romantic relationship, Barbara Jane Calchera who portrayed Myrtle Brown Homer’s long termed fiancé who is the production’s token “Normal” person who beings as excitement among the other characters as they meet someone from the outside of their dysfunctional restraints, Sue Butler who (while also serving as the Director) portrayed Esther Crampton Cora, Aaronetta, and Ida’s sister who secretly fears being along while wishing to be free of her controlling husband’s effects on her ability to be with her sisters, and Scott E. McIntosh who portrayed David Crompton Esther’s husband who learns his need to control and punish those who disobey him only leads to isolation and a more unpredictable life.
The Center Stage Players* production of “Morning‘s At Seven” by Paul Osborn was Directed by Sue Butler* (Center Stage Players’* President) with Jack Butler* Assisting (both of whom also created the set design) and Stage Managed by Lillian Ramirez-Gonzalez* (Center Sage Players‘* Secretary and served the production as a member of the box office staff). The Vice-President of The Center Stage Players is Mary Erm*. The Lighting Designer was Arthur Ritter. The Lighting and Sound Technicians were Eric Dwyer* and Marie Cannon. The Executive Director of The Shawnee Playhouse* is Midge McClosky* while the producers are Ginny and Charlie Kirkwood. Group Sales of their productions are handled by Mary Horn* while The Shawnee Playhouse publicity is handled by Amy Cramer*. The Box office staff includes Kasey Mesko, Kristen Gehling, and Barbara Ross.
This production of “Morning‘s At Seven” by Paul Osborn will continue its run at The Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA until October 26th and is recommended for those who would enjoy laughing at the characters in this play as the expose their secrets while discovering their own. The next Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA production will be “Blithe Spirit” by Noel Coward to be performed October 31st - November 9th. Those who enjoy the Passionate Art Lover level of membership in The Forwardian Arts Society are offered a $2.00 discount off the admission fee of The Shawnee Playhouse* Productions (excluding Children Theatrical Productions and those presented by non Shawnee Production Companies). Please contact The Shawnee Playhouse* at 570-421-5093 for more information and to reserve your ticket.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
Written by: Paul Osborn
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 “Morning‘s At Seven” by Paul Osborn. The play is about a dysfunctional family from the 1930‘s who eventually learn from the adage, “You‘re only as sick as your secrets.” Their journey to this realization is filled with a great deal of humor which allowed each member of the audience to recognize their own relational peculiarities through a great deal of laughter.
The play was funny, produced well, and was an enjoyable theatrical experience. But, what made this production a real treat was to watch actors demonstrated their love for the theatrical arts performing on stage. This love went far beyond the love of being seen on stage to receive the adoration of fans (real or imagined). This love showed the dedication each actor has for his/her craft in which they endeavor to do the work to bring their character to life in a real and meaningful way. This work enhances the production and as it does the audience’s experience of it as they are more likely able to see themselves in each portrayal.
The cast consisted of Dave Hymes who portrayed Theodore (Thor) Swanson the Uncle often finds himself amazed by the antics of others, Pat Van Varick who portrayed Cora Swanson Thor’s wife who’s secret resentments creates in her a desire to live out their lives alone, Katherine Neville* (Center Stage Players’* Secretary) who portrayed Aaronetta Gibbs one of Cora’s sisters who lives with Cora and Thor while holding a secret about a dynamic of her relationship with them deep within her heart, Judy lawler who portrayed Ida Bolton Aaronetta and Cora’s sister and next door neighbor who is torn between her desire to have her son live with her forever and realizing his need to live his own life while endeavoring to hid the secret of her husband’s mental condition from the world, Jack Butler* who (while also serving as the Assistant Director) portrayed Carl Bolton Ida’s Husband who secret feelings of regret over his life’s decisions leads him to “spells” of debilitating depression, Patrick Turner* who portrayed Homer Bolton who secret conflicts between his desires to live his life while remaining his mother’s child leads to difficulties in realizing the full potentials of a romantic relationship, Barbara Jane Calchera who portrayed Myrtle Brown Homer’s long termed fiancé who is the production’s token “Normal” person who beings as excitement among the other characters as they meet someone from the outside of their dysfunctional restraints, Sue Butler who (while also serving as the Director) portrayed Esther Crampton Cora, Aaronetta, and Ida’s sister who secretly fears being along while wishing to be free of her controlling husband’s effects on her ability to be with her sisters, and Scott E. McIntosh who portrayed David Crompton Esther’s husband who learns his need to control and punish those who disobey him only leads to isolation and a more unpredictable life.
The Center Stage Players* production of “Morning‘s At Seven” by Paul Osborn was Directed by Sue Butler* (Center Stage Players’* President) with Jack Butler* Assisting (both of whom also created the set design) and Stage Managed by Lillian Ramirez-Gonzalez* (Center Sage Players‘* Secretary and served the production as a member of the box office staff). The Vice-President of The Center Stage Players is Mary Erm*. The Lighting Designer was Arthur Ritter. The Lighting and Sound Technicians were Eric Dwyer* and Marie Cannon. The Executive Director of The Shawnee Playhouse* is Midge McClosky* while the producers are Ginny and Charlie Kirkwood. Group Sales of their productions are handled by Mary Horn* while The Shawnee Playhouse publicity is handled by Amy Cramer*. The Box office staff includes Kasey Mesko, Kristen Gehling, and Barbara Ross.
This production of “Morning‘s At Seven” by Paul Osborn will continue its run at The Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA until October 26th and is recommended for those who would enjoy laughing at the characters in this play as the expose their secrets while discovering their own. The next Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA production will be “Blithe Spirit” by Noel Coward to be performed October 31st - November 9th. Those who enjoy the Passionate Art Lover level of membership in The Forwardian Arts Society are offered a $2.00 discount off the admission fee of The Shawnee Playhouse* Productions (excluding Children Theatrical Productions and those presented by non Shawnee Production Companies). Please contact The Shawnee Playhouse* at 570-421-5093 for more information and to reserve your ticket.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Irish Rocks The Sherman
The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA presented The Young Dubliners on Tuesday September 23rd featuring the sounds of Irish Rock which were enjoyed by a small but lively crowd who appreciated every note and turn of the phrase the group presented. A great deal of dancing and clapping accompanied the performance to the delight of all who attended. The audience included Richard Berkowitz*, Cheryl Yost*, Gary Lambert*, Bill Kelly*, and Theresa Woehrel* all of The Sherman Theatre*along with my Myspace friend Niwana who was there with the Celtic Fife and Drum Corp. The next shows at The Sherman Theatre* will be A Karaoke Night entitled, “So You Think You Can Sing?” on Saturday September 27th at 7pm to benefit the PoconoArts Council and The Sherman Theater Capital Campaign and The Keller Williams Concert on Sunday September 28th at 8pm featuring an unique experience for fans with blazing guitar wizardry and a masterful display of song craft. Please Explore The Sherman Theatre* Website for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Irish Rocks The Sherman 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.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Habitat Choral
The St. Paul Lutheran Church in Tannersville, PA presented the Monroe County Chapter of Habitat for Humanity’s Annual “Raise The Roof” concert to bring about more awareness relating to their work on Sunday September 21st featuring choirs from numerous churches throughout Monroe County, PA who performed individually and later combining their voices into one huge sound that was pleasing to the ear as well as the soul. The evening was filled with a variety of choral music all relating to a religious theme while encouraging those in attendance to discover ways within themselves to aid those seeking a place to dwell to do so. Those lending their talents to the program were Anna Busteed*, Suzanne McCool*, Caitlin Koch*, and Arline M. Smeltz*. Among those who were among the enchanted audience were Thomas, Rose, and Donald Busteed*. Please Explore The Habitat for Humanity Website for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Habitat Choral 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.
Home Concert
The Don Slepian's* ArtMusic Coffeehouse in East Stroudsburg, PA presented the music of Don Slepian* on Saturday September 20th as part of their September 2008 Home Concerts Series. The evening was filled with wonderful music and even more wonderful conversation among the guest who attended this very intimate affair. Guest included Jan Julia Slepian* and Arline M. Smeltz*. Please Explore The ArtMusic Coffeehouse Website for more information. You’ll find several photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Home Concert 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, September 20, 2008
It Happened at The Dutot
The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery* in Delaware Water Gap, PA hosted and Opening Reception on Friday September 19th for an exhibition entitled, “Song of the Spirit” featuring the works of Katherine Yvinskas* which comprised of a Quarter Century Retrospective of her creative endeavors. The variety of styles from her earlier pieces such as those entitled “Ties” and “Love is a Split Unity” served to demonstrate the evolution towards her later works which included pieces reflecting a desire to become more a part of her natural surroundings entitled, “Turtle Shell” and “Milk Thistle.” A common thread weaving this uncommon of creativity together seemed to be the adventurous passion in Ms. Yvinskas* approach she gives to her work.
The evening included an improvisational performance by Jazz great Dave Liebman* who created tuneful renderings inspired by his spontaneous impressions of the works he experienced. This was reminiscent of the “Happenings” which were frequent during the 1950s and 60s in which artists of many genres inspired each other to create spontaneous works in their own disciplines. This example of this endeavor enhanced the appreciation of the entire exhibition among those who attended leaving many to hope this form of creative expression will make a revival in the very near future.
Those attending the Opening Reception included Edgard Bernal*, Marty and Sue Wilson* of The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery*, Pat and Terri Gaughan*, and Edward and Connie Evans* of Gallery 705* in Stroudsburg, PA. The exhibition continues until October 5th. Please Explore The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery Website for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society It Happened at The Dutot Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
The evening included an improvisational performance by Jazz great Dave Liebman* who created tuneful renderings inspired by his spontaneous impressions of the works he experienced. This was reminiscent of the “Happenings” which were frequent during the 1950s and 60s in which artists of many genres inspired each other to create spontaneous works in their own disciplines. This example of this endeavor enhanced the appreciation of the entire exhibition among those who attended leaving many to hope this form of creative expression will make a revival in the very near future.
Those attending the Opening Reception included Edgard Bernal*, Marty and Sue Wilson* of The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery*, Pat and Terri Gaughan*, and Edward and Connie Evans* of Gallery 705* in Stroudsburg, PA. The exhibition continues until October 5th. Please Explore The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery Website for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society It Happened at The Dutot Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
2008 Hinkelfest
The 2008 Hinkelfest in Fredricksburg, PA took place on September 13th and 14th featuring a variety of arts, crafts, and music which included The Jonestown Male Choir, Desert Wind, The Johnson Brothers, BT and the Cruisers, Hearts Afire, and Denise Voshell along with recipe contests, amusement rides, and foods centering around a chicken cuisine. Anna, Donald, Thomas, and Rose Busteed* were there along with Arline M. Smeltz* to enjoy the day. Please Contact Hinkelfest at Hinkelfest@comcast.com for more information. You’ll find several photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society 2008 Hinkelfest 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.
Rocking The Sherman
The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA presented “Don’t Panic” on Friday September 12th featuring “North of The City,” “Split Screen Romance*,” Kelsey and Chaos*,” and “Reign of the Epic“ as part of their Independent Rock Series. An interesting mix of Hard Core, Acoustic Guitar, and other styles were presented to a small but appreciative audience. The next shows in The Sherman Theatre* Independent Rock Series will be September 19th and 20th at 6pm. Please Explore The Sherman Theatre* Website for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Rocking The Sherman 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.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
COTA 2008
The Celebration of the Arts (COTA)* held their 31st Annual COTA* Jazz and Arts Festival September 5th - 7th in the Delaware Water Gap in PA. The concerns festival planners had regarding the weather and the recent construction soon faded as the COTA magic began to work its charm. Even the deluge of torrential rains of the Saturday Monsoon could not dampen the spirits of the jazz enthusiasts who attended the festival. The music and the friend we all met or became reacquainted with kept us all feeling great.
The festival began with the Opening Reception of the annual COTA Music Motif Exhibition held at The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery* in Delaware Water Gap, PA on Friday September 5th. The show feature a variety of very talented artist who have created works with a musical theme. The work gathered together for the exhibition flowed like a wonderful musical composition yet there were some interesting pieces which strayed from the flow to enhance the qualities of the others.
These pieces exhibited the very same properties the art form of Jazz has been known to do. A certain flow is established among the musicians until one is inspired to offer a variation whish often takes the composition into a new direction. This enables the performers (as well as the listeners) to explore another dimension of the work. This exploration also allows and encourages those who experience it to follow it’s pathways to the deeper dimensions found within. The pieces presented at The Dutot complimented COTA* in the way it move those who experienced them just as Jazz does.
The exhibition for The Music Motif Show at The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery* in Delaware Water Gap, PA continues until September 14th. I would recommend visiting the gallery as its exhibition will bring you to a good place. Please explore The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery* at www.dutotmuseum.com for more information.
The evening continued across the street of the mighty route 611 at The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain (PCOM) who presented their annual Evening of the Arts featuring theatre, classical music, and some soft jazz to help set the mood for the remainder of the festival. Their evening began with The Water Gap Players collection of sketches entitled, “Rough Sketch.” Greg Back, Dennis Garrig*, and David Hymes presented their amusing pieces which was filled with the social and political commentary that delighted their audiences throughout the years.
The evening at The PCOM continued with the classical renderings of Calliope with Gina Bertucci and Barbara McMahon on flute along with Laura Goss* on Bassoon. The selection of their works ranged from sonatas composed in the 18th century to early 20th century Ragtime. The later included pieces from Joplin and Gershwin. The performance lend itself nicely as a soothing transition from the uproarious humor the audience just experienced to the soothing sounds of jazz journeys they were about to embark on.
After Garth Woods* presented The Sterling and Dorothy Strauser Award honoring the artistic contribution in the visual arts to a well deserving Jill Elizabeth of Liztech Jewelry, Saralyn Whitaker* brought the evening to its conclusion with her sweet vocalizations of numerous jazz classics. She was accompanied by Wolfgang Knittle on Piano, Paul Rostock* on Bass, and Chuck Cooper* on drums. The music moved the audience to a sweet sensation as they later went home to rest up for the promises of anther COTA* day. Please feel free to explore The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain Website at www.churchofthemountain.org for more information on everything it has to offer.
The Main Festival COTA* has become known for began at noon on Saturday September 6th. In a rare occurrence, the day was filled with rain. This would be only the third time it has rained in a way it significantly effected the presentation of the music performed at the festival. Yet, the show did go on as the audience gathered their chairs underneath the tent usually reserved for performers as they prepared to go on stage while a small but effective stage was set up to entertain the jazz lovers who braved the weather.
The first performers were Michael Stephans’ Trio Frio whose lively music set the musical tone of the day’s festival. The audience soon forgot it was raining as the drops of jazz touched their eagerly awaiting taste buds who greeted each delicious note. The long year of waiting for COTA to return was over and it was time to reap the rewards of their patience as the powers that control the rains provied them with an even more intimate setting in which they could enjoy their favorite bands.
There were many wonderful band who performed throughout the day. The included the big band known as JARO and “Library Alive” with Phil Woods and The COTA Festival Orchestra. The day ended with Nellie McKay with the Obligatory Villagers. This was a festival in itself. The huge number of musicians and vocalist accompanying Nellie McKay included Bob Dorough*, Nancy and Spencer Reed*, Eric Doney*, Jay Rattman*, Rick Chamberlain*, and Paul Rostock*. The music ranged from Swing time jazz to original works written by Nellie McKay including a biting satire of the extremes of feminism entitled, “Mother of Pearl” and a fun audience participation song entitled, “Zombie.” The later song brought all of Nellie McKay’s wit to bear and I have not seen so many Zombies since I worked at WalMart. Sorry Sam Walton.
Jazz Lovers who came to COTA* the next day were met with sunshine. The warmth of a new day filled each person with anticipation as they began their day with a spiritual respite provided by The COTA* annual Jazz Mass composed, conducted, and a lot of other stuff by Wolfgang Knittel and led by The Reverend Karen Nickels of The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain. The rousing music and the encouraging sermon enhanced the spiritual awareness of each jazz lover as they continued their pilgrimage through the jazz Mecca known as COTA.
The first performers who met their eager ears were The Daves Lantz Trio with Dave Lantz IV* on Piano, Dave Lantz III on Bass, and Joe Wolmach on Drums. Among the other performers who appeared to the delight of everyone on the COTA Stage were Marko Marcinko’s Latin Jazz Quartet, Sherrie Maricle’s Five Play, and A Piano Summit with Eric Doney*, Bobby Avey, Dave Lantz IV*, and Jessie Green* who had injured his hand recently and played for the audience with only one hand. Jessie Green‘s* performance proved to be the Jazz equivalent of the Zen concept of One Hand Playing.
Along with The Joanne Mayer Memorial COTA Volunteer Award to honor the COTA Volunteer Spirit being presented to Mert and Gloria Shane by Carol Dorshimer and the presentation of The Fred Waring Award to honor Eric Doney’s outstanding contributions to the arts and the community by Phil Woods, the Highlight of the festival was performance of the 2008 (Volume 28) COTA* Cats. The COTA* Cats consist of students from area school districts who have demonstrated considerable musical skills and a kinship to Jazz. These students are mentored by a group of Clinicians who include many of the great Jazz artists who have graced COTA* and other venues throughout the decades.
In addition to the annual performance, COTA* provides scholarships to exceptional students so they can continue their musical endeavors in an academic environment. This year recipients were Evan Wichman who is attending Syracuse University, Kathryn Vallilee who is attending Temple University Honors College, and Nicole Locilento* who is attending The University of Rochester. We at The Forwardian Arts Society would like take this moment to congratulate all the current scholarship recipients as well as those who will receive theirs for 2009. We wish you the best of luck in your meaningful endeavors and may you always go forward towards your dreams.
Other happenings around the festival site included strolling musicians Mark Hamza* on Accordion and Jay Rattman* on Clarinet, The Lost Ramblers, and The Dixie Gents. Bob Dorough performed his classic collection of songs he composed for “Schoolhouse Rock” in the children’s area while Maria Horn* shared her story telling talents with the children. In addition to all this, there was great food to be had by all and many wonderful items to be bought at the vender section. There were so many things to do the two days of the outdoor festival hardly seems enough.
However, the grand finale of this year’s COTA came with an arousing performance by Simone. The energies she and her band produced ignited the crowd as they moved and swayed to her electric beats. It was a fitting end to a wonderful experience no one wanted to end. Everyone went home in anticipation to next year’s festival so they can relive their experiences while creating new memories to sustain them throughout the year.
Still, there is much COTA* does throughout the year which helps ease the long wait for the festival to begin again in September 2009. The Sherman Theatre in Stroudsburg, PA (www.shermantheatre.com) will present The COTA* Orchestra Library Alive Series on November 10th and host one of COTA’s* favorite bands The Eric Mintel Quartet as they present a Jazz Holiday Show on December 20th. In addition to this, next summer will see a performance by the students who attend COTA’s* Jazz Camp.
It is in combining the experience of the established Jazz Master those who come to COTA* each year have come to admire with the new talent who are hovering in the horizons of their dreams that makes The Celebration of The Arts* an intricate part of everyone who love the arts lives. I enjoy going each year as there is always a new experience to be added to my mental scrap book of memories. I always make new friends and I never fail to be astonished by the adventures of those I become reacquainted with. It is especially rewarding that their numbers increase each year. I have seen many of you there and I’m glad for the time we shared this year. Please feel free to share your comments, reflections, and recollections about COTA with me. I eagerly await your words.
Please contact COTA* at 570-424-2210 or visit their website for more information. You’ll find a complete archive can be found at our Blog on Yahoo360. Please visit our website at www.forwardianartssociety.com to find a directory to all of The Forwardian Arts Society Blogs.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
The festival began with the Opening Reception of the annual COTA Music Motif Exhibition held at The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery* in Delaware Water Gap, PA on Friday September 5th. The show feature a variety of very talented artist who have created works with a musical theme. The work gathered together for the exhibition flowed like a wonderful musical composition yet there were some interesting pieces which strayed from the flow to enhance the qualities of the others.
These pieces exhibited the very same properties the art form of Jazz has been known to do. A certain flow is established among the musicians until one is inspired to offer a variation whish often takes the composition into a new direction. This enables the performers (as well as the listeners) to explore another dimension of the work. This exploration also allows and encourages those who experience it to follow it’s pathways to the deeper dimensions found within. The pieces presented at The Dutot complimented COTA* in the way it move those who experienced them just as Jazz does.
The exhibition for The Music Motif Show at The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery* in Delaware Water Gap, PA continues until September 14th. I would recommend visiting the gallery as its exhibition will bring you to a good place. Please explore The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery* at www.dutotmuseum.com for more information.
The evening continued across the street of the mighty route 611 at The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain (PCOM) who presented their annual Evening of the Arts featuring theatre, classical music, and some soft jazz to help set the mood for the remainder of the festival. Their evening began with The Water Gap Players collection of sketches entitled, “Rough Sketch.” Greg Back, Dennis Garrig*, and David Hymes presented their amusing pieces which was filled with the social and political commentary that delighted their audiences throughout the years.
The evening at The PCOM continued with the classical renderings of Calliope with Gina Bertucci and Barbara McMahon on flute along with Laura Goss* on Bassoon. The selection of their works ranged from sonatas composed in the 18th century to early 20th century Ragtime. The later included pieces from Joplin and Gershwin. The performance lend itself nicely as a soothing transition from the uproarious humor the audience just experienced to the soothing sounds of jazz journeys they were about to embark on.
After Garth Woods* presented The Sterling and Dorothy Strauser Award honoring the artistic contribution in the visual arts to a well deserving Jill Elizabeth of Liztech Jewelry, Saralyn Whitaker* brought the evening to its conclusion with her sweet vocalizations of numerous jazz classics. She was accompanied by Wolfgang Knittle on Piano, Paul Rostock* on Bass, and Chuck Cooper* on drums. The music moved the audience to a sweet sensation as they later went home to rest up for the promises of anther COTA* day. Please feel free to explore The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain Website at www.churchofthemountain.org for more information on everything it has to offer.
The Main Festival COTA* has become known for began at noon on Saturday September 6th. In a rare occurrence, the day was filled with rain. This would be only the third time it has rained in a way it significantly effected the presentation of the music performed at the festival. Yet, the show did go on as the audience gathered their chairs underneath the tent usually reserved for performers as they prepared to go on stage while a small but effective stage was set up to entertain the jazz lovers who braved the weather.
The first performers were Michael Stephans’ Trio Frio whose lively music set the musical tone of the day’s festival. The audience soon forgot it was raining as the drops of jazz touched their eagerly awaiting taste buds who greeted each delicious note. The long year of waiting for COTA to return was over and it was time to reap the rewards of their patience as the powers that control the rains provied them with an even more intimate setting in which they could enjoy their favorite bands.
There were many wonderful band who performed throughout the day. The included the big band known as JARO and “Library Alive” with Phil Woods and The COTA Festival Orchestra. The day ended with Nellie McKay with the Obligatory Villagers. This was a festival in itself. The huge number of musicians and vocalist accompanying Nellie McKay included Bob Dorough*, Nancy and Spencer Reed*, Eric Doney*, Jay Rattman*, Rick Chamberlain*, and Paul Rostock*. The music ranged from Swing time jazz to original works written by Nellie McKay including a biting satire of the extremes of feminism entitled, “Mother of Pearl” and a fun audience participation song entitled, “Zombie.” The later song brought all of Nellie McKay’s wit to bear and I have not seen so many Zombies since I worked at WalMart. Sorry Sam Walton.
Jazz Lovers who came to COTA* the next day were met with sunshine. The warmth of a new day filled each person with anticipation as they began their day with a spiritual respite provided by The COTA* annual Jazz Mass composed, conducted, and a lot of other stuff by Wolfgang Knittel and led by The Reverend Karen Nickels of The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain. The rousing music and the encouraging sermon enhanced the spiritual awareness of each jazz lover as they continued their pilgrimage through the jazz Mecca known as COTA.
The first performers who met their eager ears were The Daves Lantz Trio with Dave Lantz IV* on Piano, Dave Lantz III on Bass, and Joe Wolmach on Drums. Among the other performers who appeared to the delight of everyone on the COTA Stage were Marko Marcinko’s Latin Jazz Quartet, Sherrie Maricle’s Five Play, and A Piano Summit with Eric Doney*, Bobby Avey, Dave Lantz IV*, and Jessie Green* who had injured his hand recently and played for the audience with only one hand. Jessie Green‘s* performance proved to be the Jazz equivalent of the Zen concept of One Hand Playing.
Along with The Joanne Mayer Memorial COTA Volunteer Award to honor the COTA Volunteer Spirit being presented to Mert and Gloria Shane by Carol Dorshimer and the presentation of The Fred Waring Award to honor Eric Doney’s outstanding contributions to the arts and the community by Phil Woods, the Highlight of the festival was performance of the 2008 (Volume 28) COTA* Cats. The COTA* Cats consist of students from area school districts who have demonstrated considerable musical skills and a kinship to Jazz. These students are mentored by a group of Clinicians who include many of the great Jazz artists who have graced COTA* and other venues throughout the decades.
In addition to the annual performance, COTA* provides scholarships to exceptional students so they can continue their musical endeavors in an academic environment. This year recipients were Evan Wichman who is attending Syracuse University, Kathryn Vallilee who is attending Temple University Honors College, and Nicole Locilento* who is attending The University of Rochester. We at The Forwardian Arts Society would like take this moment to congratulate all the current scholarship recipients as well as those who will receive theirs for 2009. We wish you the best of luck in your meaningful endeavors and may you always go forward towards your dreams.
Other happenings around the festival site included strolling musicians Mark Hamza* on Accordion and Jay Rattman* on Clarinet, The Lost Ramblers, and The Dixie Gents. Bob Dorough performed his classic collection of songs he composed for “Schoolhouse Rock” in the children’s area while Maria Horn* shared her story telling talents with the children. In addition to all this, there was great food to be had by all and many wonderful items to be bought at the vender section. There were so many things to do the two days of the outdoor festival hardly seems enough.
However, the grand finale of this year’s COTA came with an arousing performance by Simone. The energies she and her band produced ignited the crowd as they moved and swayed to her electric beats. It was a fitting end to a wonderful experience no one wanted to end. Everyone went home in anticipation to next year’s festival so they can relive their experiences while creating new memories to sustain them throughout the year.
Still, there is much COTA* does throughout the year which helps ease the long wait for the festival to begin again in September 2009. The Sherman Theatre in Stroudsburg, PA (www.shermantheatre.com) will present The COTA* Orchestra Library Alive Series on November 10th and host one of COTA’s* favorite bands The Eric Mintel Quartet as they present a Jazz Holiday Show on December 20th. In addition to this, next summer will see a performance by the students who attend COTA’s* Jazz Camp.
It is in combining the experience of the established Jazz Master those who come to COTA* each year have come to admire with the new talent who are hovering in the horizons of their dreams that makes The Celebration of The Arts* an intricate part of everyone who love the arts lives. I enjoy going each year as there is always a new experience to be added to my mental scrap book of memories. I always make new friends and I never fail to be astonished by the adventures of those I become reacquainted with. It is especially rewarding that their numbers increase each year. I have seen many of you there and I’m glad for the time we shared this year. Please feel free to share your comments, reflections, and recollections about COTA with me. I eagerly await your words.
Please contact COTA* at 570-424-2210 or visit their website for more information. You’ll find a complete archive can be found at our Blog on Yahoo360. Please visit our website at www.forwardianartssociety.com to find a directory to all of The Forwardian Arts Society Blogs.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
The Final Meeting for COTA
The Celebration of the Arts (C.O.T.A.)* held their final meeting on Tuesday September 2nd at The Deer Head Inn* in Delaware Water Gap, PA to conclude their plans for the 31st Annual COTA* Jazz and Arts Festival to take place September 5th - 7th. Except for the final loose ends that need tightening up, everything there is to do has or is being done to assure a wonderful festival experience for those who have come to love COTA*.
Cyndie Dutkiewcz*, Tim Helman*, Jim Wyckoff*, Jill Goodwin*, Pat and Terri Gaughan*, Karen Nickels*, Lauren Chamberlain*, Ron and Norma Hart*, Cheryl Reed*, Cheryl Joubert*, Allisen Trotter*, Brian and Anita Labar*, Tyler Rutt*, Garth Woods*, Christine Trembly*, and Bill Goodwin* along with Rob and Jamie Garner* were among those whose shared in the excitement of the evening as the date of the festival begins its approach. Please contact COTA* at 570-424-2210 or visit their website for more information about all the wonders the festival can bring to you. You’ll find numerous pictures at The Forwardian Arts Society COTA 08 Meetings Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
Cyndie Dutkiewcz*, Tim Helman*, Jim Wyckoff*, Jill Goodwin*, Pat and Terri Gaughan*, Karen Nickels*, Lauren Chamberlain*, Ron and Norma Hart*, Cheryl Reed*, Cheryl Joubert*, Allisen Trotter*, Brian and Anita Labar*, Tyler Rutt*, Garth Woods*, Christine Trembly*, and Bill Goodwin* along with Rob and Jamie Garner* were among those whose shared in the excitement of the evening as the date of the festival begins its approach. Please contact COTA* at 570-424-2210 or visit their website for more information about all the wonders the festival can bring to you. You’ll find numerous pictures at The Forwardian Arts Society COTA 08 Meetings Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
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