A Requiem in Concert

The ESU Music Department presented their Spring Choral Concert on Wednesday April 28th in The Cecilia S. Cohen Recital Hall which is located in The Fine and Performing Arts Building on the campus of East Stroudsburg University of PA (ESU). The evening began with a performance by The University A Cappella Ensemble who presented several selections and continued with The Concert Choir and Orchestra performing Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s “Requiem.” Numerous music lovers attended the event as the classical pieces conducted by Prof. James Maroney filled the recital hall and the corridors of the soul.

Among those who lent their talents to the evening included Laura Goss, Marta Oberlin, Richard Chamberlain, Jim Daniels, Patrick Dorian, Agnieszka Rybska, David Lantz, Jr., Elizabeth Buzzelli-Clark, Tara Nylander, Connie Papillion, Brian Foley, Arline M. Smeltz, Michael Kessler, Jennifer Kroll, Laura Wall, Timothy Oesterle, and Dr. Ottis French. The voices and other musical instruments flowed together throughout the performance which was well received by all who were present. You’ll find more photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society Music 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

Upcoming presentations at ESU include a Senior Piano Recital featuring Kyle Weir on Friday April 30th beginning at 7:30pm, The 23rd Annual Spring Band Concert featuring selections from Broadway Musicals on Sunday May 2nd beginning at 7pm, and Student Voice Recitals featuring the students of Terry L. Flatt and James Maroney on Tuesday May 4th at 6 and 7pm. Please Contact The ESU Music Department at 570-422-3483 for more information.

The Website address of East Stroudsburg University of PA (ESU) is www.esu.edu.

A Showcase of Collegiate Works

The Madelon Powers Gallery located in The Fine and Performing Arts Building on the campus of East Stroudsburg University of PA (ESU) held an Artists’ Reception on Wednesday April 28th for their Senior Show featuring the works of students participating in the Art Department’s Senior Seminar Program. The works included Graphic Designs, Illustrations, Fine Arts, and work they have done with their portfolios. This provided each attendee an opportunity to glimpse the career goals of each student while marveling at their creative aptitudes.

The variety reflecting many styles and approaches to each of the pieces created a desire for among those who attended the show to learn more about the artist who created it. These artist included Andrea Adebowale, Katherine Bach, Christine Donald, Laura Fiore, Gregory Gutierrez, Danielle Heinz, Ilka Ivanova, Thomas Kelichner, Kayran Lee, Lauren Moffett, Jessica Moran, Kyle Pezoldt, and Joseph Vinciquarra, The Exhibition Continues until May 6th. Please Contact The ESU Art Department at 570-422-3759 for more information. You’ll find more photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society Visual Arts 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

Contact information for those mentioned in this article include East Stroudsburg University of PA (ESU) at www.esu.edu, Andrea Adebowale at lovely_us@yahoo.com, Christine Donald at www.ChristineDonald.com, Gregory Gutierrez at gregjosephdesign@gemail.com, Danielle Heinz at www.lottyda.com, Ilka Ivanova at iii9657@esu.edu, Thomas Kelichner at trkp0921@esu.edu, Kayran Lee at www.cargocollective.com/treialee, Lauren Moffett at www.laurenmoffett.net, Jessica Moran at designerjessicamoran@gemail.com, and Kyle Pezoldt at www.kyledpezoldt.com.

Theatrical Review: A Cheever Evening

Theatrical Review: A Cheever Evening
Written by: A. R. Gurney
Directed by: Sue Butler and Katherine Neville
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz

The Shawnee Playhouse in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA presented The Center Stage Players‘ production of “A Cheever Evening” by A. R. Gurney based upon the works of John William Cheever who was often referred to as “the Chekhov of the suburbs.” The majority of his writings took place in the Northeast section of the United States and often dealt the duality of human nature especially in regards to presenting an acceptable personal façade while hiding a corrupt nature within oneself.

The play is a series of vignettes which seem separate but soon become interrelated as it progresses. The first act of the play takes place during the 1930s and 40s and begins with a couple who are able to hear the going ons of other people living in the city on their radio. Some are amusing while a number of the scenes they overhear are disturbing. Other portions of the act relate the desperation of the times of “The Great Depression” era both on an economic and personal level. The economic level leads one character to abandon his morals in order to steal from his neighbors to feed his family while the personal level of the depression allows a woman to abandon her marital life as she meets a man kinder than her husband. These are just two examples how people are effected by the times they live in but the play goes beyond this as the second act of the play takes place during the 1960s in which we discover the duality of the human condition changes very little throughout the passage of time.

The cast consisted of Dan Eash (who also serves on The Center Stage Players’ Board of Directors), Patrick Turner (who also serves on The Center Stage Players’ Board of Directors), Katherine Neville (who also serves on The Center Stage Players’ Treasurer as well as the production‘s Co Director, Set designer, and Program Designer), Rick Fisher, Jennifer Serowick, and Juliet Dunham. The members of this ensemble cast portrays numerous characters throughout the production with each given the opportunity to demonstrate their considerable talents. Such talent made the play very enjoyable to watch.

The Shawnee Playhouse presentation of The Center Stage Players’ production of “A Cheever Evening” by A. R. Gurney was Directed by Sue Butler who also serves as The Center Stage Players’ President and she designed the production’s set along with Jack Butler and Scot Cleveland. The Production was Stage Managed by Lillian Ramirez-Gonzalez who also serves as The Center Stage Player’ Secretary. The Center Stage Players’ Vice President is Mary Erm. The Lighting Design was done by Arthur Ritter while Eric Dwyer created the Sound Design. The Executive Director of The Shawnee Playhouse* is Midge McClosky while the producers are Ginny and Charlie Kirkwood. Group Sales of the productions are handled by Mary Horn (who also served as a member of the Box Office Staff with Becky Haskell) while The Shawnee Playhouse publicity is handled by Amy Cramer.

This presentation of The Center Stage Players’ production of “A Cheever Evening” by A. R. Gurney has concluded its run at The Shawnee Playhouse in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA on April 25th and it’s this reviewer was unable to make his recommendation of this play until now. It was a good play with a very talented cast well worth watching. The next Shawnee Playhouse in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA presentations will include The Center Stage Players’ production of “Dr. Cook’s Garden” April 30th - May 9th, The Pocono Skies Electro Music Festival May 15th and 16th, and “Manhattan Casanova” May 21st - 30th. Please contact The Shawnee Playhouse at 570-421-5093 or Explore their Website at www.theshawneeplayhouse.com for more information and to reserve your ticket. Please feel free to Explore The Center Stage Players’ Website at www.centerstageplayers.org to learn more information about them.

Those who enjoy the Passionate Art Lover level of membership in The Forwardian Arts Society are offered a $3.00 discount off the admission fee of selected The Shawnee Playhouse Productions.

Photograph provided by The Shawnee Playhouse.

Barrymore at the Community

The Pocono Community Theater in East Stroudsburg, PA presented two films made during the silent film era on Thursday April 22nd as part of their “Silent Movies Set to Loud Music” Series featuring the famed actor of the time John Barrymore who was part of a well known theatrical family whose legacy continues to this day through his grand daughter Drew Barrymore. The films were accompanied by music provided by live performances of the bands Mad Lucas and Dreams of Fire along with a solo performance by guitarist/songwriter Keith Leslie aka The Business Fairy.

The first film was titled, “Sherlock Holmes” which was made in 1928 and considered lost until it resurfaced in the mid 1970’s. It was directed by Albert Parker and adapted from a play based on Arthur Conan Doyle’s work with John Barrymore playing the famed detective. The band Mad Lucas performed during the screening featuring Chris Decker on Guitar and Vocals, Chris Sullivan on Guitar and Vocals Jeff "Major Threat" Shatt on Bass and Vocals, and Jaime Miller on Drums. In spite of a technical mishap which disabled their microphones, they performed with great energy and bravado. In fact, the lack of amplification enhanced the performance as it transformed to an acoustic set with songs complimenting the scenes appearing on screen.

The second film was titled, “Tempest” and was made in 1928 and directed by Sam Taylor. The film is noted by some elaborate settings created by William Cameron Menzies who won an Academy Award for Best Art Direction in 1929 which was the first year The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences began presenting them at the Hotel Roosevelt in Hollywood, CA. John Barrymore portrayed a young officer who rises to the rank of Lieutenant in spire of his humble heritage. He is shunned by the aristocratic society but falls in love with a princess of the Romanoff family. He is rebuffed by her, arrested, and stripped of his rank. However, the Communist Revolution takes place and things change for the better for him during The Red Terror which occurred in Soviet Russia in 1918 becoming a series of mass arrests and executions conducted by the Bolshevik government.

Guitarist/songwriter Keith Leslie aka The Business Fairy performed many of the songs he has become well know for throughout the area to the appreciation of the fans who were in attendance during a early portions of the film. He was followed by the band Dreams of Fire featuring Jimmy Lee, Charlie Abriel, Kevin Vanderhoof, Sarah Shown, Will McGrath, Joe Lynch, and Abby Braman who performed their special brand of music presented with all the theatrical frivolity they have become well known for. Their performance brought the film and evening to a delightful conclusion leaving everyone eagerly awaiting the next Silent Movie set to Loud Music Event. You’ll find more photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society Pocono Community Theater 2010 Gallery at www.myspce.com/forwardian_arts.

The Pocono Community Theater in East Stroudsburg, PA offers local film lovers an opportunity to experience the best in independent and foreign film not commonly shown in larger commercial venues. These include films made by local film makers and the inclusion of special events to enhance the community at large. The next event will be The First NEPA Poetry Slamfest beginning at 8pm on Friday April 30th featuring 2009 Women’s Individual Word Slam Champion Rachel McKibbens along with voice performances by Youth Poets featured in HBO’s “Brave New Voices,” Urban Word NYC, The Philadelphia Youth Poetry Movement, and Urban Mountain Voices. There will also be a Mock Slam featuring Youth spit poetry in a high energy competition. Please Contact The Pocono Community Theater at 570-421-3456 for more information.

Websites of those mentioned in this article include The Pocono Community Theater at www.poconocommunitytheater.org, Dreams of Fire at www.myspace.com/dreamoffiremusic, Mad Lucas at www.myspace.com/themadlucasband, Keith Leslie aka The Business Fairy at www.myspace.com/thebusinessfairy, Rachel McKibbens at www.rachelmckibbens.com, HBO’s “Brave New Voices” at www.bravenewvoices.org, Urban Word NYC at www.urbanwordnyc.org, The Philadelphia Youth Poetry Movement at www.phillyyouthpoet.org, and Urban Mountain Voices at www.urbanmountainvoices.org.

Graduating with Petra

The Petraology 233 Show which is aired Wednesdays beginning at 6pm on The Pocono Internet Broadcasting Company (PIBCO) in Stroudsburg, PA held a graduating ceremony on Wednesday April 21st in order to confers degrees in Petraology upon their graduates. According to the sisters Vera Petra and Clarisa Dear who co host the show, Petraology is an interactive study of Rock Culture and listeners to the show can earn Bachelor Degrees by answering a series of questions related to the musical form via the station’s website chat function or through the one found on facebook. Master’s Degrees in Petraology were awarded to other station DJs and others who made a special contribution to the show. There were also several Honorary Degrees distributed during the ceremonies as well.

The Event began with an interview with musical group Aces Over Eights who frequently perform at The Sherman Theater in Stroudsburg, PA and other local venues. The graduation ceremony began soon afterwards with a speech by class of 2010 Valedictorian known as “Grasshopper.” Those receiving Bachelor Degrees included “Spudboy” of PIBCO’s Live Nude Girls Show airing Tuesdays beginning at 7pm, “Sal,” “Lexie,” “The Forwardian Dude” (yeah that’s me), and “Metalmorphosis Chic.” Mater Degrees were presented to “Grasshopper,” Lorelei of PIBCO’s Saturday Night 70’s Show aired Saturdays beginning at 7pm, Aurora Nova who is the drummer of the band “Truth and Tempest,” “SubJunk of PIBCO’s Suburban Junkyard Show aired Thursdays beginning 7pm, “Sniper,” “Julez” of PIBCO’s Mix Rape Show aired Saturdays beginning at 9am, Liz Wetson, and “Undercover Steve” of PIBCO’s “My Show” aired Fridays beginning at 9pm. Honorary degrees were awarded to Art Alexakis of Everclear, Dawn Alexander, Nick Douglas, Lyken 21, Derek and Mary Mcauley, Rob Miler, Oraine, John Russo of Reverse Order, Charle Sabin of Attention Deficit Society, The Sherman Theatre, Sherry Thomas, Adam Vodosky of Aces Over Eights, and Harrison Young of Earth Minor. You’ll find more photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The Pocono Internet Broadcasting Company (PIBCO) in Stroudsburg, PA is a new radio station that utilizes the internet to air its variety of programs. Access to the station can be gained through its website and is interactive most of the time. Many show feature not only recorded music but interviews with artists and musician along with life in studio concerts. PIBCO will celebrate its 1st Anniversay with a “Beatnik Blowout” on Friday April 23rd at The Mollies Restaurant in Stroudsburg, PA beginning at 8pm. Please Contact PIBCO at 570-420-3389 for more information.

The websites of those mentioned in this article include The Petraology 233 Show at www.myspace.com/rocklore1, The Pocono Internet Broadcasting Company at www.PIBCO1.com, Aces Over Eights at www.myspace.com/aoerockmusic, The Sherman Theater at www.shermantheatre.com, Aurora Nova at www.myspace.com/auroranova, and Undercover Steve’s My Show at www.myspace.com/myshow667.

Theatrical Review: As You Like It

Theatrical Review: As You Like It
Written by: William Shakespeare
Directed by: Margaret Joyce Ball
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz

The East Stroudsburg University (ESU) Department of Theatre presented their production of “As You Like It” written by William Shakespeare. This comic masterwork is filled with all the political intrigue, cross gender insights, and the delightful frivolity the bard is well known for. This production of the work takes advantage of all these elements to great and pleasing effect.

This production of the play is set in a Caribbean nation which is ruled by Duke Frederick (as portrayed by Doug Brehony who also served the production as one of its Scenic Artists) who is an usurper of his brother Duke Senior aka Ferdinand (as portrayed by Angelo Revilla III) who is the rightful leader who is now living in exile. In the midst of this political struggle, the younger son of loyalist Sir Rowland de Boys named Orlando (as portrayed by Michael Demyan) meets and falls in love with Rosalind (as portrayed by Rachael Mack) who is the daughter of Duke Senior and niece of Duke Frederick.

As the play progresses, Orlando is forced to leave his home by Orlando’s elder brother Oliver (as portrayed by Ryan Castro) and his servant Dennis (as portrayed by Joey Dougherty) after winning a bout with Charles the Duke’s Wrestler (as portrayed by Brendan McKeown) and leaves with his servant Adam (as portrayed by Shamus Halloran). Rosalind soon goes into exile disguised as a man with her cousin Celia (as portrayed by Erin Lanza) and their clown Touchstone (as portrayed by Alexander P. Writh). They soon encounter Duke Senior along with an assortment of characters who fills the stage and the hearts of the audience with humor and good spirits.

These characters include Lady Amiens (as portrayed by Karen Guilliams), Jaques (as portrayed by Gabryal Rabinowitz) whose melancholy nature eloquently notes “All the world’s a stage,” Corin (as portrayed by Ryan Drozd), the country vicar Lady Olivia Martext (as portrayed by Meg Dowling while serving as one of the production‘s Carpenters and Scenic Artists), William (as portrayed by Tyler Adams), Hymen (as portrayed by Michelle Jones), the second son of Sir Rowland de Boys Jaques (as portrayed by Anthony Risnondo), and Audrey (as portrayed by Jessica Pachuta) who cha-chas her way across the stage and into Touchstone’s lecherous heart. The Ladies and Lords of Duke Senior’s court included Stephanie Clare, Andrew M. Confair, Cassandra Daily, Joey Dougherty, Michelle Jones, Kuan-Kuei Lin, and Keighty Simmons (who also served as one of the production‘s Costume Assistants).

The comedy of the play was enhanced with the introduction of a Shepherd named Silvius (as portrayed by Luke Thomas Swierczek while serveing as one of the production‘s Carpenters and Electricians) and a shepherdess named Phoebe (as portrayed by Merrill McGuinness while serves as one of the production‘s Scenic Artists and Carpenters). In an effort to help the young Silvius to win the heart of the temperamental Phoebe, Rosalind (in her manly disguise) chastises her and unwittingly wins her heart. This adds an delightful complication to the plot which leads the play to a conclusion of heterosexual marital bliss. This is followed by more happy news as Duke Senior is restored to his leadership role when his wayward brother decides to adopt a religious life. Who knew?

In spite of what might be considered a contrived ending, Shakespeare’s mastery of the written word shines through. And, this brilliance could not be reflected more brightly by the very talented cast and skilled direction embodying this production. It is a pleasure to watch as it brings the work to a jubilant performance.

The East Stroudsburg University (ESU) Department of Theatre production of “As You Like It” written by William Shakespeare was Directed by Margaret Joyce Ball and Stage Managed by Michelle Tuite (who also served as the production’s Carpenter, Property Assistant, Electrician, and Costume Assistant) as assisted by Melissa Sherry (who also served as the production’s Carpenter, Property Master, and Electrician) and Laura Sollazzo (who also served as the production‘s Carpenter and Electrician). The Set and Costumes were designed by Yoshinori Tanokura, the Lighting was designed by Wilburn Bonnell, Megan Carpenter was the production’s Choreographer, Ken Larson was the production’s Technical Director, Kate Dembesky was the production’s Light Board Operator, Ahleea Zama was the production’s Sound Board Operator, Felicia Revero was the production’s Wardrobe Mistress and a Costume Assistant, and the production’s Master Carpenter, Master Electrician, and Shop Foreman was Robert McIntyre who also served in the production’s running crew. Zenobia Colah and Sarah Martins served as Property Assistants, Samantha Hildebeitel sereve as one of the production’s Carpenters, Elyse Burnett, Paul Cenci, Tyreek Majette, and Kendrick Williams were part of the running crew, the Hair and Makeup Designer/Artist was Laura Fiore, the House manager was Sarah Broson, Box Office Managers were Tim Hahn and Brian Foley, and the Poster and Program Cover Design for the production was done by Katherine Bach

This production of “As You Like It” will continue its run at The East Stroudsburg University (ESU) in East Stroudsburg, PA at The University’s Fine and Performing Arts Center in it’s Smith-McFarland Theatre until April 25th and is recommended for those who wish to a fun night at the theatre enjoying some classic comedy done very well. Please contact The East Stroudsburg University (ESU) Theatre Department at 570-422-3483 for more information and to reserve your ticket.

No Photographs were provided.

The Amazing RenDi in Dreamland

The Dreamland Creations in Stroudsburg, PA held an Artist’s Reception on Sunday April 11th which featured the work of RenDi. A plaque upon the wall serving as an artist’s statement is entitled, “Cut me Up: Artwork by a Masochist” could well describe the work in itself. Although I’m not sure about the Masochistic qualities of the work, it certainly is on the cutting edge of the creative expression. The bold images grabs the attention of the viewer and refuses to let him or her go until they are embedded in their psyche. Yet, there are also softer pieces which invite the viewer to enter its arrays of colors before being grabbed so one can become amazed. The Exhibition continues until April 30th. You’ll find more photographs relating to the reception in The Forwardian Arts Society Dreamland Creations 2010 Gallery.

The Dreamland Creations in Stroudsburg, PA serves as a studio where individuals can adorn their forms with a variety of body art such as tattoos and piercing reaching out to the vast community of conventional and non mainstream artists throughout the area. Their next Artists’ Reception will feature a variety of artists in an exhibition entitled, “The Pets Show.” The reception will take place Sunday May 2nd beginning at 4pm. The Exhibition will continue until June 1st. Please Contact The Dreamland Creations at 570-421-6313 for more information.

Websites of those mentioned in this article include The Dreamland Creations at www.myspace.com/dreamlandcreations and RenDi at www.myspace.com/translucent_skin

EyeCandy for the Arts

The ArtSpace Gallery in Stroudsburg, PA held Artist’s Receptions on April 10th and 11th which featured a retrospective of the work of Andrea Robbins-Rimberg in a show entitled, "EyeCandy." The first sensations one received while first entering the gallery were those created by the sheer vibrancy and quantum variety of the work. It is soon afterwards one wonders who one woman can create so much on her own and we begin to doubt we’ve read the promotional notices correctly and if this wasn’t really a group show. But, once meeting the artist, we lay all such doubts aside as her energetic personality outshines everything and everyone in the room.

Saying the work was varied can be construed as an understatement. It is a wild collection of photography, painting, and sculpture creating a wonderful new world for those who entered the gallery. The atmosphere was welcoming as it was enchanting encouraging all to explore the colors, textures, and subjects they encountered. The atmospheric conditions where enhanced by a video created by Shane Izykowski of Andrea at her studio home in Shawnee on Delaware, PA where a glimpse of her work in their natural surroundings (ie her interior walls and sculpture garden) can be gained along with musical interludes provided by members of the Classical grouping known as Calliope.

The work itself is well worth coming back to the gallery again and again when excited clatter of conversation has dimmed allowing one to form a more intimate relationship with the pieces allowing a deeper understanding and appreciation to develop. The Exhibition continues until April 30th. You’ll find more photographs relating to the reception in The Forwardian Arts Society Visual Arts 2010 Gallery.

The ArtSpace Gallery in Stroudsburg, PA serves as a showcase for artists who are part of the Pocono Arts Council who encourages creative endeavors in all artistic disciplines throughout Monroe and surrounding counties in PA. Their next event will be a Demonstration and Lecture given by artist Andrea Robbins-Rimberg entitled, "Remember When God Was A Woman" on Saturday April 17th beginning at 1pm featuring an example of her free-flowing, uninhibited style while she creates an exciting piece of art utilizing a draped, live model as she speaks about her art and how she is inspired by daily observations. The Gallery’s next Artist Reception will be for The Pocono Arts Council Special Member Exhibition on Saturday May 15th beginning at 3pm. This exhibition will continue until May 23rd. Please Contact The ArtSpace at 570-476-4460 for more information.

Websites of those mentioned in this article include The Artspace Gallery at www.artspacegallery.net, Andrea Robbins-Rimberg www.sculptureworks.biz, Shane Izykowski at www.myspace.com/shaneizykowski, and Pocono Arts Council at www.poconoarts.org.

The Paradise of the Heavenly PCT

The Pocono Community Theater in East Stroudsburg, PA held an Artist’s Reception on Saturday April 10th which featured the primarily photographic works of Rod Cameron entitled, “Paradise Found” as well as the oils and watercolor works created Clarissa Jan Ward entitled, “Not only the Earth but also the Heavens.” Although the work had a similar soothing effect upon the viewer, the contrast between the artist’s styles made for a very interesting and satisfying show. One can appreciate being easily caught up in the gentle flow inherent in Ms. Ward’s natural settings while the Digital Photographic Images of Mr. Cameron quietly excites the mind as it endeavors to discover how their wonderful effects were achieved. The exhibition continues until May 16th. You’ll find more photographs relating to the event in The Forwardian Arts Society Pocono Community Theater 2010 Gallery Part 2.

The Pocono Community Theater in East Stroudsburg, PA offers local film lovers an opportunity to experience the best in independent and foreign film not commonly shown in larger commercial venues. These include films made by local film makers and the inclusion of special events to enhance the community at large. The next events at The Pocono Community Theater will include “Silent Shakespeare” beginning at 8pm on Thursday April 22nd featuring a showing of the work of William Shakespeare as depicted in films made during the Silent Film Era while accompanied by music performed live by Dreams of Fire, Mad Lucas, and The Business Fairy. In addition to all this, The Pocono Community Theater will host The First NEPA Poetry Slamfest beginning at 8pm on Friday April 30th featuring 2009 Women’s Individual Word Slam Champion Rachel McKibbens along with voice performances by Youth Poets featured in HBO’s “Brave New Voices,” Urban Word NYC, The Philadelphia Youth Poetry Movement, and Urban Mountain Voices. There will also be a Mock Slam featuring Youth spit poetry in a high energy competition. Please Contact The Pocono Community Theater at 570-421-3456 for more information.

Websites of those mentioned in this article include The Pocono Community Theater at www.poconocommunitytheater.org, Dreams of Fire at www.myspace.com/dreamoffiremusic, Mad Lucas at www.myspace.com/themadlucasband, The Business Fairy at www.myspace.com/thebusinessfairy, Rachel McKibbens at www.rachelmckibbens.com, HBO’s “Brave New Voices” at www.bravenewvoices.org, Urban Word NYC at www.urbanwordnyc.org, The Philadelphia Youth Poetry Movement at www.phillyyouthpoet.org, and Urban Mountain Voices at www.urbanmountainvoices.org.

Children of the Holocaust Revealed at PCT

“When they came for the Gypsies, I didn’t want to get involved since I wasn’t one. So, I said nothing about it. When they came for Homosexuals, I didn’t want to get involved since I wasn’t one. So, I said nothing about it. When they came for the Political Dissenters, I didn’t want to get involved since I wasn’t one. So, I said nothing about it. So, when they came for me, no one got involved or said anything about it.” A Jewish Survivor of the Holocaust.

The Pocono Community Theater (PCT) in East Stroudsburg, PA hosted “Holocaust Remembrance…The Hidden Children” on Thursday April 8th and event honoring those children who were either placed or nearly escaped being placed in concentration camps during the Holocaust during World War II. The event will be repeated on Sunday April 11th at 7pm on Yom H’Shoah which is a day especially set aside to remember all who suffered during the Nazi Holocaust. Although the event focused upon those Jewish children who hid from the Nazis in WWII Hungary, it also recognized the non Jewish victims such as Gypsies, Homosexuals, Physically and Mentally Handicapped, and those who did not profess Fascism as their personal creed.

The event began with welcoming remarks by Martha Loomis who is the Co Owner of the event’s Sponsor Josephine’s Fleur-de-lis located in Stroudsburg, PA. This was followed by the lighting of Candles commemorating those who died in the Nazi Concentration Camps. This was followed by an introduction given by Camille Breslauer to a documentary film featuring her late husband Tom Breslauer who was featured in the film.

The film was focused on a series of radio interviews conducted with Holocaust Survivor and long time Stroudsburg, PA resident Tom Breslauer which were also videotaped. The film was very well made and contained a great deal of information not commonly known about the Holocaust. It brought a fresh human perspective to those horrific times along with a warning of how easily they can be relived whenever the general population is in agreement some people don’t deserve the dignity, respect, and right to live as the majority.

After the film, an overview of the book entitled “Remember Us” was given by its contributing editor Evi Blaikie. The book was written by The Hungarian Hidden Children of New York, Inc and shares the memories of thirty Hungarian Men and Women who survived the Holocaust as children in hiding. These children were kept safe from the Nazis occupying Hungary by neighbors who did not want them to suffer the fate of many others. Although they were spared the horrors of the Concentration Camps, the fact they had to be hidden away made them victims nether the less. The end of the war and occupation left them with no real home as many were place in orphanages, no families as many parents and siblings were killed in the camps, and no identity as they had to hide all they were to remain alive.

The event continued with readings from Tamas Revai, Suzanne Nash, and Susan Kalev who contributed to the book and shared their childhood memories of WWII Hungary. This was followed by a statement by Associate Professor of History of The Northampton Community College Dr. Brian Anutt whose many of his courses focuses on the Holocaust experience. The evening concluded with questions for the participants from the audience. The book, “Remember Us” is available for purchase at Josephine’s Fleur-de-lis with proceeds going toward endeavors to educate the general public about the Holocaust. Please Contact Josephine’s Fleur-de-lis at 570-476-7909 for more information. You’ll find more photographs relating to the event in The Forwardian Arts Society Pocono Community Theater 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The Pocono Community Theater in East Stroudsburg, PA offers local film lovers an opportunity to experience the best in independent and foreign film not commonly shown in larger commercial venues. These include films made by local film makers and the inclusion of special events to enhance the community at large. The next events at The Pocono Community Theater will include an Artist’s Reception beginning at 1pm on Saturday April 10th featuring a body of Rod Cameron’s work entitled, “Paradise Found” and the body of Clarissa Jan Ward worked entitled, “Not only the Earth but also the Heavens.” The exhibition will continue until May 16th.

The Theater will also present “Silent Shakespeare” beginning at 8pm on Thursday April 22nd featuring a showing of the work of William Shakespeare as depicted in films made during the Silent Film Era while accompanied by music performed live by Dreams of Fire, Mad Lucas, and The Business Fairy. In addition to all this, The Pocono Community Theater will host The First NEPA Poetry Slamfest beginning at 8pm on Friday April 30th featuring 2009 Women’s Individual Word Slam Champion Rachel McKibbens along with voice performances by Youth Poets featured in HBO’s “Brave New Voices,” Urban Word NYC, The Philadelphia Youth Poetry Movement, and Urban Mountain Voices. There will also be a Mock Slam featuring Youth spit poetry in a high energy competition. Please Contact The Pocono Community Theater at 570-421-3456 for more information.

Websites of those mentioned in this article include The Pocono Community Theater at www.poconocommunitytheater.org, Josephine’s Fleur-de-lis at www.josephinesonmain.com, Evi Blaikie at www.eviblaikie.com, Dreams of Fire at www.myspace.com/dreamoffiremusic, Mad Lucas at www.myspace.com/themadlucasband, The Business Fairy at www.myspace.com/thebusinessfairy, Rachel McKibbens at www.rachelmckibbens.com, HBO’s “Brave New Voices” at www.bravenewvoices.org, Urban Word NYC at www.urbanwordnyc.org, The Philadelphia Youth Poetry Movement at www.phillyyouthpoet.org, and Urban Mountain Voices at www.urbanmountainvoices.org.

Art, Music, and Fashion on Main

The Main Street Jukebox in Stroudsburg, PA held an Opening Reception on Saturday April 3rd which featured The Art of Abby Braman and Omni. Their work both complimented as well as contrasted one another. The event included performances by musical guest Keith Leslie and Meshach Richards. The event also included a fashion show featuring apparel designed by Omni and modeled by Cassandra Potter, Mary McCauley, and Elizabeth. The large crowd that gathering at the Jukebox were treated to a fashionable evening filled with sights and sounds pleasing to the senses.

The depth found in the pieces created by Abby were enhanced by her choice of framing. The glass enclosing the work highlighted some aspects while some shadowing encouraged the viewer to go deeper within them. This engraved effect captured a certain indescribable look that went beyond merely presenting something pleasing to the eye. It went deeper within the soul and read the messages etched there by the eons of existence in which human kind continues to search for their author.

The images presented by Omni ranged from simple political statements challenging the viewpoints of those observing them to those challenging our perceptions on a more psychedelic level. In fact, the later mentioned pieces could affectionately be referred to at “Etch A Sketch on Acid.” Their playful designs were deceptive in their simplicity as they moved the minds of the viewers more and more into their subconscious as they continue to gaze upon them.

The music provided by the fast tempo guitar playing Keith Leslie entertained as his legendary quick hands touched upon the strings of his instrument. A well created mix of original material along with cover tunes written by both local musician and more famous ones were well received. His performance was followed by the rugged sounds of Meshach Richards a.k.a Ritchie Murder whose guitar blasted its way through the audience with every note placing a strangle hold on each person until they joyously submitted to its overpowering melody. It was like listening to George Thorogood with a really big jack hammer. You’ll find more photographs of the reception at The Forwardian Arts Society Main Street Jukebox Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The Main St. Jukebox in Stroudsburg, PA offers vintage recordings in their original vinyl form along with recent releases in both vinyl and digital formats. Videos, DVDs, and CDs are also available on a variety of themes and topics. They also host a number of events including their celebration of Record Store Day on Saturday April 17th featuring an opportunity to experience numerous exclusive limited releases from local and national bands. Musical guest will include Meshach Richards a.k.a Ritchie Murder and The Clubber Lang Gang along with an Artists’ Reception featuring The Art of Victoria Penna beginning at 6pm Saturday May 1st with musical guest Mad Lucas beginning at 7pm. This Exhibition continues until May 30th. The Abby Braman and Omni Exhibition continues until April 25th. Please Explore The Main Street Jukebox at 570-424-2246 for more information.

Websites of those mentioned in this article include The Main Street Jukebox at www.myspace.com/mainstjukebox, Abby Braman at www.myspace.com/rivalstag, Omni at www.stroudsocial.com, Keith Leslie at www.myspace.com/thebusinessfairy, Meshach Richards at www.myspace.com/MeshachRichards, The Clubber Lang Gang at www.myspace.com/clubberlanggang. Mary McCauley at www.myspace.com/mjmccauleyda, Victoria Penna at www.myspace.com/vickypennasucks, and Mad Lucas at www.myspace.com/themadlucasband.

Lunafest 2010

The Pocono Community Theater in East Stroudsburg, PA presented Lunafest on Saturday April 3rd which consisted of the viewing of a series of 10 short films created by, for, and about women as introduced by Mollie Whalen who is the director of the Women’s center at East Stroudsburg University. Proceeds from the event went to benefit the Breast Cancer Fund and Women's Resources of Monroe County.

The films shown touched upon a variety of topics while remaining consistent with the festival’s overall theme. They ranged from experiencing a new life, to self discovery, to dealing with a family crisis, to economic frustration, to understanding life with through a profound wisdom. Although all were well made and embodied a great deal of meaning, my favorite among those shown was “Monday Before Thanksgiving” directed by Courtney Cox.

The film depicts woman who lives alone and is encouraged to find a man to begin a relationship with. After exploring the idea and wondering if her life is valuable without someone to share it with, she meets an older woman on a bus who shares with her how fulfilling life can be while living it alone. The younger woman then invites her friends and family to her apartment for a joyous celebration. The film ends with the woman dancing in celebration of her autonomy alone and nude in her apartment.

I particularly enjoyed this film as it counters most mainstream films made about women. These film mostly focus on a woman’s quest to find and marry a man of her dreams so she can become complete. These films often end with a wedding from which we are to believe all of her problems of being lonely will end in spite of the financial pressures brought about by a very expensive ceremony will later bring. These films deny the possibility a woman can live her life happily single and that a meaningful marriage can take place without a wedding. It was good to see a film about a woman not hypnotized by the popular and devaluating myths so prevalent in the mainstream cinema.

Others films shown during the festival included, “A Summer Rain” directed by Ela Their, “Plasitic” directed by Sandy Widyanata, “Roz (and Joshua)” directed by Charlene Music, “DIY: Emancipation” directed by Lynn Robinson, “The Kinda Sutra” directed by Jessica Yu, “A Vida Politica” directed by Kat Mansoor, “Anjali” directed by Maya Anand, “Omelette” directed by Nadejda Koseva, and “The McCombie Way” directed by Kristina and Nick Higgins. The films were followed by a discussion held by those viewing the films. This proved to be quite lively as the cinematic merits and themes of each film were explored. You’ll find more photographs of the festival at The Forwardian Arts Society Pocono Community Theater Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The Pocono Community Theater in East Stroudsburg, PA offers local film lovers an opportunity to experience the best in independent and foreign film not commonly shown in larger commercial venues. These include films made by local film makers and the inclusion of special events to enhance the community at large. The next events at The Pocono Community Theater will include a showing of the documentary film entitled, “Holocaust Remembrance: the Hidden Children” on April 8th and 11th beginning at 7pm focusing on the stories of those children who hid from the Nazis in WWII Hungry with a question and answer period with some of the survivors after the film. The event will also feature a screening of a film about longtime Stroudsburg resident Tom Breslauer. The theater will hold an Artist’s Reception beginning at 1pm on Saturday April 10th featuring a body of Rod Cameron’s work entitled, “Paradise Found” and the body of Clarissa Jan Ward worked entitled, “Not only the Earth but also the Heavens.” The exhibition will continue until May 16th.

The Theater will also present “Silent Shakespeare” beginning at 8pm on Thursday April 22nd featuring a showing of the work of William Shakespeare as depicted in films made during the Silent Film Era while accompanied by music performed live by Dreams of Fire, Mad Lucas, and The Business Fairy. In addition to all this, The Pocono Community Theater will host The First NEPA Poetry Slamfest beginning at 8pm on Friday April 30th featuring 2009 Women’s Individual Word Slam Champion Rachel McKibbens along with voice performances by Youth Poets featured in HBO’s “Brave New Voices,” Urban Word NYC, The Philadelphia Youth Poetry Movement, and Urban Mountain Voices. There will also be a Mock Slam featuring Youth spit poetry in a high energy competition. Please Contact The Pocono Community Theater at 570-421-3456 for more information.

Websites mentioned in this article include The Pocono Community Theater at www.poconocommunitytheater.org, Lunafest at www.lunafest.org, Dreams of Fire at www.myspace.com/dreamoffiremusic, Mad Lucas at www.myspace.com/themadlucasband, The Business Fairy at www.myspace.com/thebusinessfairy, Rachel McKibbens at www.rachelmckibbens.com, HBO’s “Brave New Voices” at www.bravenewvoices.org, Urban Word NYC at www.urbanwordnyc.org, The Philadelphia Youth Poetry Movement at www.phillyyouthpoet.org, and Urban Mountain Voices at www.urbanmountainvoices.org.

Film Review: The Ghost Writer

Film Review: The Ghost Writer
Directed by: Roman Polanski
Performances by: Ewan McGregor and Pierce Brosnan
Film Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz

The Film “The Ghost Writer” is a film adaptation of the Robert Harris novel entitled, “The Ghost.” Both are about a young successful ghost writer portrayed by Ewan McGregor who remains nameless throughout the film who is hired to complete the memoirs of former British Prime Minister Adam Lang as portrayed by Pierce Brosnan. It seems a simple enough assignment until we learn the ghostwriter’s predecessor died while working on the project.

Soon after the ghost writer begins his work, the former prime minister is accused with war crimes for his part in sending terrorist suspects to the CIA to be tortured through “Water Boarding.” He is called to answer to the world court but seeks asylum in the US as the country does not recognize jurisdiction. The ghost writer soon begins to discover some dark secrets regarding the former prime minister for which his predecessor might have been murdered when he discovered them.

As in the novel, the allusion to former British Prime Minister Tony Blair to the Adam Lang character is very transparent which is an assertion not denied by either the author of the novel nor by the director of the film. This makes the thriller much more interesting as it encourages the audiences to speculate what would occur if the plot depicted in the film actually came about in reality. There are, after all, a great many issues left unresolved from both of the previous US and UK administrations might be called into review one day with those responsible for unlawful acts made accountable for their actions. Perhaps the film will encourage the world court and other international investigative bodies to explore some past behavior of those fought the dragons of terrorism only to become Nietzsche-ian Dragons themselves.

But, beyond the comparisons and speculations, “The Ghost Writer” is a very neat and delightfully complex political thriller. Director Roman Polanski skillfully creates a claustrophobic environment in which he leads the audience in and out a maze of clues and discoveries. From the very first moment the young ghost writer steps into the former prime minister’s concrete fortified compound, we know there is something wrong about to happen. We don’t know what it is, but the mood the film sets encourages us to be aware what we feel will happen will indeed happen any minute.

The suspense is furthered by our observations everything the ghost writer discovers is placed where he can find them. We are amused by his self congratulatory smirks while considering himself so clever, but we now he is being led. What we don’t know who is leading him and why. We never really find this out, though, which creates a desire to see the film once again as the film also creates a sense we’ve might have missed something in our first viewing of it. And, this reviewer might become one of the happy number who ventures out to see it again.

“The Ghost Writer” is rated PG-13 and is currently running at The Pocono Community Theater in East Stroudsburg, PA. You may call 570-421-3456 for show times and dates. Most films run one week but some films may be held over for an additional week or two depending on ticket sales.

After the Friday April 2nd showing of the film, The Forwardian Arts Society Gathered in The Pocono Community Theater’s Café to chat about it. The turnout was minimal but the conversation was very engaging and proved to be as suspenseful as the film. In fact, our conversation led to a number of questions and speculations on who was behind all the plots and why. We invite you to join us Friday May 7th to watch a film and participate in an equally stimulating conversation. Please contact us through our website for more information. You’ll find more photographs of our gathering at The Forwardian Arts Society Film and Chat Gathering Gallery at www.myspece.com/forwardian_arts.

Those websites mentioned in this review included The Pocono Community Theater at www.poconocommunitytheater.org and The Forwardian Arts Society at www.theforwardianartssociety.com.