A Centennial in the Park

The Stroud Township Municipal Center in Stroudsburg, PA presented their first Gazebo Concert for the 2010 season on Sunday June 27th in the township’s Jay Albertson Park. Although they weren’t really on the park’s gazebo due to their size, The Trinity Centennial Band under the direction of Ralph S. Harrison played a variety of tunes ranging from military marches and light classics to selections from Broadway and the Big Band Era much to the delight of the many toe tapping citizens of the area who thoroughly enjoyed listening to the 55 piece ensemble consisting of local musicians whose love for music shown through every measure of their performance.

Many of those who attended the concert were mindful of the exceptionally warm Summer Day. But the music moved quickly as a cooling breeze whose presence was missed when it came to its conclusion. Many wanted the gentle feeling the musicians created to linger but were soon consoled to holding the membranes of their experiences close to their beings. You’ll find more photographs of the concert in The Forwardian Arts Society Music 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The Stroud Township Municipal Center presents a series of concerts throughout the Summer the fourth Sunday of the Month. Their next Summer Gazebo Concert in the Jay Albertson Park will feature Riverside Rhythm on Sunday July 18th beginning at 6pm with a nine piece swing band performing music from the Big Band Era. Please Explore The Stroud Township Municipal Center Website at www.township.stroud.pa.us or call 570-421-3362 for more information.

Extinctive Karma

The Vintage Karma Tattoo and Art Studio in Stroudsburg, PA held an Artist Reception on Saturday June 26th featuring the work of Sean Jude Elsasser and Dylan XVX in an exhibition titled, "Alters of Extinction." The images consisted of an interesting mixture of line drawings and full colored animation depicting some captivating and (in some cases) decapitating scenes. All of which suggested some sacrificial rite which may coincide with the exhibition’s title suggesting the inept social contact we make when sacrificing our self esteem on the alters of those we wish to impress is leading us to extinction.

This was illustrated most clearly to me in one picture in which the torso of a man with a heart shaped box of candies was being puked up as he pursued a woman whose demeanor indicated an unreachable indifference. This feeling can be recognized by any who seek to have a relationship with someone inaccessible and is willing to do anything to gain his/her attention. We leave who we are behind simply because we feel they won’t like who we are and become someone we learn to dislike. Therefore, our true selves become extinct as we sacrifice who we are for what we want only to discover they weren’t really worth it. And, of course, by then it’s too late for us to regain who we are and all we can hope to do is move on and pretend we’ve learned something useful from the experience. You’ll find more photographs from the reception in The Forwardian Arts Society Visual Arts 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

Along with exhibitions featuring local artists, The Vintage Karma Tattoo and Art Studio in Stroudsburg, PA provides their customers a variety of adornments for the body. The "Alters of Extinction" Exhibition will continue until August 15th. Please Explore The Vintage Karma Tattoo and Art Studio Website at www.artofvintagekarma.com or call 570-994-6671 for more information.

The Soul finds a Home

A modest gathering of music lovers came together in the home of Don and Jan Slepian located in East Stroudsburg, PA on Friday June 25th to enjoy their monthly ArtMusic Coffeehouse concert. This month, attendees were treated to the passion and emotional depth found in Classical and originally composed music as they were presented by Keyboardist, Composer, and Maestro Spiro Cardamis and Soprano Julie Ziavras. The exquisite blend of music and voice made the evening an elusive one for words to describe as it communicated through the language of the soul.

As customary, host Don Slepian opened the evening with some original improvised compositions of his own. However, he was joined by Spiro Cardamis who enhanced the opening with his own inspired interpretations. It was soon afterwards that those attending began to experience the passions found in the featured artists’ performance. This passion was not only felt in the music, but in they way Spiro Cardamis and Julie Ziavras talked about the work and the translations from the original text. An excitement filled their voices and it proved to be very contagious.

As also customary, the environment of the Slepian home was congenial filled with friendly faces, warm conversation, plentiful refreshments, and carousel horses. Their home has this “Welcome All” feel to it and this was especially true to a special guest who attended this month’s concert via the internet. Spiro Cardamis’ brother experienced the entire evening through his webcam from his home in Greece. It was interesting to contemplate how a tradition established long ago by people who had the desire to entertain their neighbors has evolved by utilizing 21st century technology to include the world in their neighborhood. This led to a further contemplation on how everyone is touched by all the arts even if they’re unable to physically hear, see, or touch the forms as art communicates on such a level it becomes a part of all humanity without any conscious effort to receive it. You’ll be able to find out more information about Spiro Cardamis at www.spirosmusic.com. Information about Julie Ziavras who with Ken DeAngelis perform as an acoustic folk duo and presented an impromptu after show concert can be found at www.kenandjulie.com. You’ll find more photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society ArtMusic Coffeehouse Series 2010 Gallery.

The ArtMusic Coffeehouse presents concerts taking place in The Slepian home in East Stroudsburg, PA on a monthly basis and features a variety of music designed to enhance those who attend. Thier next concert will feature the music and poetry of Holly Avila on Saturday July 17th beginning at 8pm. Information on Holly Avila can be found at www.myspace.com/blueplanetplanetaazul. Since the concerts are held in a private residence, there is a limitation in regards to space provided for attendees. Therefore, reservations are required. To reserve your place at the next concert and/or to learn more information about the series, please Explore The ArtMusic Coffeehouse Website at www.ArtMusicCoffeehouse.com or call 570-476-6307.

Little Cards Say a Lot

The Sherman Theatre in Stroudsburg, PA held an Artists’ Reception on Thursday June 24th featuring a variety of works of over 25 artists all conforming to the dimensions of trading cards which are 2.5“ x 3.5“. A modest number of works were upon the theatre’s walls but one aspect of the reception really stood out. This was the opportunity for those attending the show to create their own trading card with material readily on hand at a table near the theatre’s entrance. This gave those who came to see the work a chance to move beyond being mere spectators to become part of the creative process.

In addition to the work hung and being created during the reception, music filled the walls as well. I arrived late so I missed the performance given by The Amazing Rezlep' and Tom Asselin of “Lewis and Clarke.” But, I did get to catch the performance by Eryk Pelzer whose music is fun to listen to as it has a flair for the theatrical. He was accompanied by Jennifer Smith who interpreted each song through the art of dance. The Exhibition will Continue until August 31st. You’ll find more photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Visual Arts 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The Sherman Theater in Stroudsburg, PA was built in the 1920s and has been renovated to present a wide variety of performances and special events with the capability of seating over 1800 people. Their next presentation will be the band “Further“ featuring Grateful Dead alums Phil Lesh and Bob Weir on Monday July 5th with John Kadlecik of the Dark Star Orchestra and Jeff Chimenti of RatDog. Please Contact The Sherman Theatre at 570-420-2808 or explore their Website at www.shermantheartre.com for more information.

Writers Gather with Cheek

The Forwardian Arts Society held their monthly Literary Lovers’ Gathering at the Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse in Stroudsburg, PA on Thursday June 24th. A number of writers joined the gathering sharing words on and off the page. The conversation revealed much more about the individual writers than their work which proved to be an unique opportunity to explore another’s creative process. The “Magic” of writing (as well as other forms of art) was also explored in that the work often has the ability of not only changing those who experience it as a spectator but the creator as well. In writing this, I wonder if this is true of the Divine Creator as well. Something to ponder.

This propensity to ponder is the Literary and all Gatherings provided by The Forwardian Arts Society at its best. There are gatherings for lovers of Music, Visual Art, Photography, Film, and (soon to be) Dance which explore the qualities of these disciplines. But, one soon realize by attending such gatherings the conversation among those who are present is the core of the event. It is here where ideas, perceptions, and friendships are formed. Learning is not only from one another but about one another as well. This allows the gathering to go beyond a simple study of the art form by providing an opportunity for many to grow through a more comprehensive understanding of who they are individually and as a group.

The Forwardian Arts Society Literary Lovers’ Gathering was followed by the Cheeky Monkey’s “Just Say It” Open Readings led by Joseph T. Landolfa which occur every Thursday evening beginning at 7pm. As more poets entered, the conversation grew and more work was read. Additional insights were gained and seeds were planted in the soul of writers seeking the euphoric feeling brining a new work to fruition often brings. I had to leave the event early but I could faithfully speculate the evening came to its conclusion with everyone eagerly anticipating its next occurrence. You’ll find more photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society Literary Lovers' Gathering 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse offers a variety of coffee, drinks, and culinary treats along with events such as the ones described in this article. The next “Just Say It” Open Reading is presently scheduled to take place Thursday July 1st and every following Thursday at 7pm while The Forwardian Arts Society’s next Literary Lovers’ Gathering is presently scheduled for Thursday July 22nd at 6pm. In addition to these events, Lens Jams is scheduled to perform on Wednesday Evenings beginning at 6pm featuring smooth jazz and rock on acoustic guitars, and Apezilla on Saturdays beginning at 6pm featuring pop and classic rock. Please Contact The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse at 570-420-8222 for more information.

The Forwardian Arts Society is a fellowship for people who love the arts who encourages, supports, and loves the creative community through its promotional and other service orientated endeavors. These include holding Gatherings for those who enjoy a variety of creative disciplines. Future Gatherings will include their Film and Chat Gathering on Friday July 2nd at The Pocono Community Theater beginning at 4pm, their Visual Art Lovers‘ Gathering on Sunday July 11th beginning at 3pm at The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse, and their Music Lovers‘ Gathering on Thursday June 18th at 6pm at The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse. Please Contact The Forwardian Arts Society at 570-269-3348 or through their website at www.theforwardianartssociety.com for more information.

Theatrical Review: “The Music Man”

Theatrical Review: “The Music Man”
Book, Music, and Lyrics by: Meredith Wilson
Directed Choreographed by: Carmela Mayo
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz

The Shawnee Playhouse in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA is currently presenting their production of “The Music Man” by Meredith Wilson based on a story he and Franklin Lacey has written. The play was first performed in 1957 on Broadway and soon became a sensation leading to over 1000 performances along with the acquisition of several Tony Awards including one for Best Musical.

After several revivals, the play became even more popularized in 1962 when the film starring Robert Preston as Harold Hill and Shirley Jones PPF (Pre Partridge Family) as Marian Paroo was presented. The film was equally successful and highly acclaimed by critics. This was followed in 2003 by a remake of the film made for “The Wonderful World of Disney” with Matthew Broderick as Professor Harold Hill and Kristin Chenoweth as Marian Paroo. Although it proved to be popular according to the ratings shares, it was not well liked by several critics.

The play itself is set in a small Iowa town named “River City” in the July of 1912. It begins on a train in which we observe several traveling salesmen chatting about their trade. This scene is a very interesting one as a rhythmic a cappella dialogue mimicking that of a train’s movement creates a mesmerizing composition not common to most musicals of the time. This sets the tone of expectation this musical will be something very different.

The play is about a con man known as Professor Harold Hill (as portrayed by Brian Bowman) who enters the town intent on swindling its citizenry out of their money through a scheme involving the creation of a marching band to placate the fears he creates for them. He soon convinces the town’s people the newly established pool hall will lead to juvenile delinquency and giving the youth the opportunity to be in a marching band will curtail such tendencies. His plan is to solicit funds from the citizens to purchase musical instruments which they do receive and expensive band uniforms which they won’t receive until he’s well out of town with their money.

However, there is a hitch to Professor Hill’s plan. He doesn’t know much about music and a young Librarian named Marion Paroo (as portrayed by Sara Ferguson) can expose his fraudulent claims as she is also the town’s music teacher. Undaunted, Professor Hill proceeds to play upon the vanity of those he encounters by convincing them they have remarkable musical abilities while pursuing Marion in hopes his charming demeanor will woo her into overlooking the obvious flaws in his musical techniques.

She is resistant to his advances but they are of no avail. This is especially true when she complains to her mother (as portrayed by Amy Rau) a man (Harold Hill) has been following her all around the town only to be advised she should be nice to him and seek a romantic relationship with him that will lead to marriage. This reviewer supposes this was a good idea at the time (1912).

However, Marion’s resistance dissolves as she finds herself falling in love with the enigmatic Professor in spite of (or maybe because of) discovering he is a fake. She sees the positive changes he created in the town while allowing its people to believe in themselves in ways they never considered before his arrival. He begins to see it as well and falls genuinely in love with her. The climax of the play is when he is about to be held accountable by the town’s people as they discovered his charade and a fully dressed marching band manifests itself to everyone’s (including Professor Hill) surprise. He leads the band into a rendition of Beethoven's Minuet in G which overwhelms the parents with joy in spite of their inability to find many of the notes.

“The Music Man” is filled with an abundance of great songs. This was true of this production as well even though the sound of seventy six trombones are not quite the same as a keyboard with a synthesizer. The acting was quite good as was the casting. In fact, the cast looked as if they actually lived during the time the play took place. There was a certain look in their faces that remained constant throughout the play which is somewhat difficult to maintain especially among young people (including children) which were a good portion of the cast. The acting was spot on as was the staging. This made the entire experience of watching this production of “The Music Man” a very enjoyable one.

The remaining cast consists of Patrick Bresnyan as Charlie Cowell, Dante Garvin as Mayor Shin, Ginny Rickard as Eulalie Mackecknie Shinn, Michael Allen Read as Marcellus Washburn, Tessa Slovis as Ethel Toffelmeir, Krystin Bowman and Danielle Catrillo both cast as Amarylliss, Marshall Haskell as Olin Britt, Edward Lawerence as Oliver Hix, Patrick McLaughlin as Ewart Dunlop, Trevor James as Jacey Squires, Mike Miller as Tommy Djilas, Kaitie Kaiser as Zaneeta Shinn, Sarah Bauch and Kelsey Picchianti both cast as Gracie Shin, Suzanne McCool as Alma Hix, Debbie Booth and Bridgitte Endrulat both cast as Maud Dunlop, Barbara Sobkowiak and Dale Ditmars Viernstein both cast as Mrs. Squires, Megan Rucidlo and Connie Meyer both cast as the Pick-a-Little Ladies, and Michael Demyan as both the Train Conductor and Constable Locke along with an ensemble comprising of Samantha Wagner, Tyler Hartle, Tony Moran, Stacey Mattern, Haley Blanding, Krystal Endrulat, Hannah Rau, Kaylan Fish, Cory Fish, Penelope (Nell) Fossa, Griffin Wagner, Jillian Andres, Stephanie Clare, Taylor Natiello, McKenna Gerhartz, Nick Gerhartz, Cassandra Lynn Moucha, and Brandon Hanks.

Besides the basic plot of the play described earlier, there are some interesting subtexts that could be derived from it. The play begins on July 4th 1912 with all the patriotic fervor associated with that date. Harold Hill manipulates their fears of change in the status quo by suggesting the youth will begin to do things differently. He proposes the establishment of a Marching Band so the young will be uniformed and comply with community standards. This may be considered a stretch in interpretation of the play, but this reviewer can’t help but see the similarities this approach to con the citizens of River City is to those employed by political leaders to manipulate their countries. It just makes this reviewer go “Hmmmmmm.”

Regardless of how one sees this production of “The Music Man,” it is a play to be seen and enjoyed. I would highly recommend it for those who like good theater done well. The acting is good and the performances reflect the qualities that made the play so memorable in the first place. One can easily see why “The Music Man” received so much critical acclaim and numerous awards by watching it at The Shawnee Playhouse. In other words, it’s a damn good show and one of the best of the season so far.

The Shawnee Playhouse production of “The Music man” by Meredith Wilson was directed by Carmela Mayo (who also served as the production’s choreographer) and Staged Managed by Byrdie Jacques. Scot Cleaveland served as the Production’s Set Designer and Technical Director as assisted by Eric Dwyer who also served as Light Designer. The Sound Technician was Stephen Sury while Kevin Hillmann served as Property Master with Philip Benefield as Tech Crew. Keyboards for the production were played by Kyle Donahue while Missy Benefield served the production as its costumer. The Shawnee Playhouse producers are Ginny and Charlie Kirkwood with Midge McClosky serving as the playhouse‘s Executive Manager. Group Box Office Sales of their productions are handled by Mary Horn as assisted by Becky Haskell. Barbara Ross, Christina McManus, and Ariel Hudak serve as the Box Office Staff. Amy Cramer serves as The Shawnee Playhouse’s Publicist.

This production of “The Music Man” continues its run at The Shawnee Playhouse in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA until August 28th. A current production of “I do! I do!“ is also being performed at The Shawnee Playhouse until September 3rd. The next Shawnee Playhouse presentations will include “The Last of the Red Hot Lovers” July 2nd - September 5th, Ronald Dahl’s “Willy Wonka Junior” July 8th - August 28th and “The Secret Garden” July 16th - August 29th. 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 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.

Photograph provided by The Shawnee Playhouse.

An Eric Mintel Gazebo

The Presbyterian Church of The Mountain (PCOM) in Delaware Water Gap, PA presented The Eric Mintel Quartet (EMQ) on Sunday June 20th as part of their Summer Gazebo Concert Series. A warm Summer day greeted the crowd of jazz lovers as they gathered together upon the lawn in front of the Gazebo to experience the smooth instrumental jazz pianist Eric Mintel and the co patriots in the form shared with them. These co patriots included Dave Antonow on Bass, Nelson Hill on Saxophone and Flute, and Dave Mohn on Drums.

Together, the quartet blended their instruments into an elixir of sound containing many restorative qualities which was enhanced by its relaxing effects. The majority of their performance consisted of compositions found on their recent CDs titled, “Ground Breaker” and “50 Years After….A Tribute to Dave Brubeck.” I was fortunate enough of obtain a copy of “Ground Breaker” to listen to on the ride home. It made me wish I lived further away as it was fantastic music to travel with.

However, I found it equally as enjoyable when I listened to the remainder of the CD while sitting in my living room. You’ll be able to learn more about EMQ including performance schedules and how to obtain copies of their CDs at www.ericmintelquartet.com. Part of the enjoyment of listening to the CD was derived from the memory of the concert at PCOM. You’ll find more photographs taken during the concert in The Forwardian Arts Society PCOM Gazebo Concerts 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain (PMOC) holds their weekly concert at their Gazebo every Sunday from 6pm until 7:30pm running from the months of June until August. They are free and open to the public with concessions available for purchase. When it rains (or rain is expected), the concert moves inside the church itself. Their next installment of their Gazebo Concert Series will be The Jazz Artist Reparatory Orchestra (JARO) featuring some Big Band Sounds on Sunday June 27th. Please Explore The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain Website at www.churchofthemountain.org or call 570-476-0345 for more information.

Solstice Poetry

The Shawnee Gallery in Shawnee on Delaware, PA held a “Solstice Poetry Reading” on Saturday June 19th to Celebrate the Official Calendar Commencement of the Summer Season. Readings were given by Juanita Kirton, Jeannette Jennis, The Shawnee Gallery Curator Chris Griffin, and Paul Adam Smeltz (yeah, that’s me). It was a quiet gathering with very few attendees.

However, the poetry proved to be of an intriguing variety reflecting the various life experiences of each poets. Conversations about the art of poetry and the creative process made the afternoon even more interesting as the topics enhanced each participant’s perception of the form. You’ll find more photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society Literary Arts 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The Shawnee Gallery is located near the Shawnee Playhouse in Shawnee on Delaware, PA. Along with Special Events like the “Summer Solstice Readings,” they also offer workshops and artists’ Exhibitions. for both the visual and literary arts as well. These include a Creative Writing Workshop led by Sumerly Gayle Buccino on Wednesday evenings and The “Native, Creative, Divine! 2010” Exhibition which continues until July 3rd with a closing reception. Please contact The Shawnee Gallery at 570-420-9494 or Explore their Website at www.theshawneegallery.com for more information about all they have to offer.

A Colorful Dutot

The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery in Delaware Water Gap, PA held an Artist’s Reception featuring the works of Sallie Bo Andrews on Friday June 18th. The reception coincided well with the environmental gift many in the Pocono Area had experienced that day. It has been humid and a bit rainy of late, but this day the warm sun shown its radiant beauty upon the land. This was equally true of the work presented by Ms. Andrews as the colors embodying her collection of paintings immersed all who were touched by their radiance in an inner glow.

However, although most of the pieces on display were of glorious colors, there were some I found especially intriguing due to their lack of the hues so otherwise prevalent. These were of her drawings which appeared at first unfinished but was later explained were created and discovered to be in no need of any enhancement. Still, the had an unfinished quality to them which allowed one to use one’s imagination and explore the creative process.

I found myself wondering what color Ms. Andrews would have place in a certain area of the canvas and what color would she place in another. This engaged me to the work even more than those “Completed” pieces and, even an hour the reception has ended and I’m home in front of my computer uploading pictures and typing an article to post, I’m still wondering what colors would be placed where. And, my mind wanders as I explore how one choice of color would effect the overall work over another choice. I can’t speak for others who attended the opening, but I enjoy attending an exhibition I can’t quite leave behind. You’ll find more photographs taken during the Reception at The Forwardian Arts Society Dutot 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The reception was well attended and the Exhibition continues until July 4th. The next Artist’s Reception will feature the work of Fernando Salomone beginning at 7pm on Friday July 9th. This Exhibition will continue until July 25th. Please feel free to Contact The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery at 570-476-4240 or Explore their Website at www.dutotmuseum.com for more information about the Gallery, their future events, and the artists presenting their work.

A Colorful Dutot

The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery in Delaware Water Gap, PA held an Artist’s Reception featuring the works of Sallie Bo Andrews on Friday June 18th. The reception coincided well with the environmental gift many in the Pocono Area had experienced that day. It has been humid and a bit rainy of late, but this day the warm sun shown its radiant beauty upon the land. This was equally true of the work presented by Ms. Andrews as the colors embodying her collection of paintings immersed all who were touched by their radiance in an inner glow.

However, although most of the pieces on display were of glorious colors, there were some I found especially intriguing due to their lack of the hues so otherwise prevalent. These were of her drawings which appeared at first unfinished but was later explained were created and discovered to be in no need of any enhancement. Still, the had an unfinished quality to them which allowed one to use one’s imagination and explore the creative process.

I found myself wondering what color Ms. Andrews would have place in a certain area of the canvas and what color would she place in another. This engaged me to the work even more than those “Completed” pieces and, even an hour the reception has ended and I’m home in front of my computer uploading pictures and typing an article to post, I’m still wondering what colors would be placed where. And, my mind wanders as I explore how one choice of color would effect the overall work over another choice. I can’t speak for others who attended the opening, but I enjoy attending an exhibition I can’t quite leave behind. You’ll find more photographs taken during the Reception at The Forwardian Arts Society Dutot 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The reception was well attended and the Exhibition continues until July 4th. The next Artist’s Reception will feature the work of Fernando Salomone beginning at 7pm on Friday July 9th. This Exhibition will continue until July 25th. Please feel free to Contact The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery at 570-476-4240 or Explore their Website at www.dutomuseum.com for more information about the Gallery, their future events, and the artists presenting their work.

Saying it Cheekily

The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse in Stroudsburg, PA hosted their weekly “Just Say it” session on Thursday June 17th as led by Joseph T. Landolfa. A good deal of conversation ensued throughout the evening with topics ranging from text messaging, to computers, to corporate greed, to pirating online music, and more. At first glance, this may seem like an open poetry reading gone awry, but a deeper look would reveal this is really a part of the poetic process.

Poetry, like all art forms, draws its essence from what we perceive to be ordinary and transforms these observations into something more esoteric. What may seem to be a casual conversation may, to a poet and/or writer of prose, prove to be a germination of an idea or concept which may be planted upon a page at a later time. What may grow might be something no one in the gathering would ever contemplate coming into being. Thus, an ordinary conversation could turn out to be not so ordinary after all.

Of course, all this elaborate pontificating is very elementary to those of you who are artists. But, for those of you who aren’t, I’m sure this was all pretty boring. Smiles. You’ll find more photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society Cheeky Monkey 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.come/forwardian_arts.

The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse offers a variety of coffee, drinks, and culinary treats along with events such as the one described in this article. The next event will be The Forwardian Arts Society is scheduled to hold a Literary Lovers’ Gathering on Thursday June 24th at 6pm followed by their “Just Say It” Open Reading at 7pm on the same evening. A Visual Art Lovers‘ Gathering is scheduled to be held on Sunday July 11th at 3pm. In addition to these events, Lens Jams is scheduled to perform every Wednesday Evening beginning at 6pm featuring smooth jazz and rock on acoustic guitars, and Apezilla on Saturdays beginning at 6pm featuring pop and classic rock. Please Contact The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse at 570-420-8222 for more information.

Theatrical Review: “I do! I Do!”

Theatrical Review: “I do! I Do!”
Book and Lyrics by Tom Jones with Music by Harvey Schmidt
Directed by: Midge McClosky
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz

The Shawnee Playhouse in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA is currently presenting their production of “I Do! I Do!” by Tom Jones and based on the Jan de Hartog play titled, “The Fourposter” as a large fourposter bed in the center of the bedroom dominates the set. This is also true of this production of “I Do! I Do!” as the bed appearing on stage does draw a great deal of attention to those coming into the theater to experience the play.

Like the play “The Fourposter,” “I Do! I Do!” is about a married couple named Agnes (portrayed by Megan Rucidlo) and Michael (portrayed by Patrick McLaughlin) Snow who begins their marriage in 1895 and continues it until the play ends in 1945. Their 50 years together is strewn together by numerous songs and scenes familiar to many who have been in a long term relationship. It is all enjoyable to watch.

However, if one comes to the play expecting an in depth look of what being in a long term marriage is like, one may leave the theater a bit disappointed. The construction of the play forbids it as it is meant to be a light hearted musical inspiring very little reflection on any societal or interpersonal implications. In other words, it’s a fun play to watch if one isn’t looking for too much depth.

This is even true during a scene when an extra marital affair is revealed. This could be very devastating to a marriage but the play creates an expectation everything will be ok. Even when the couple tell each other to “Go to Hell” it’s said with such politeness the audience doubts the sincerity of their statement. This reviewer doubts such word would lack any sincerity in a 40 to 50 year relationship. After all, this reviewer has been in “relationships” lasting for one month where such words were spoken in such ferocity it contributed to their demise. Still, this is a good play to see and worth the price of admission for those seeking something light and filled with some very good songs.

The Shawnee Playhouse production of “I Do! I Do” whose Book and Lyrics were written by Tom Jones with Music by Harvey Schmidt and directed by Midge McClosky who also serves as the playhouse‘s Executive Manager. The play was Staged Managed by Byrdie Jacques while Scot Cleaveland served as the Production’s Set Designer and Technical Director as assisted by Eric Dwyer who also served as Light Designer. The Master Carpenter and Light Technician was Stephen Sury while August Massengill served as Sound Technician. The Production’s Music Director was Amy Rau with Kyle Donahue on Keyboards while the production was Choreographed by Christine Mase. Missy Benefield served the production as its costumer with Stephanie Clare and Marshall Haskell as Dressers. The Shawnee Playhouse producers are Ginny and Charlie Kirkwood while group Box Office Sales of their productions are handled by Mary Horn as assisted by Becky Haskell. Amy Cramer serves as The Shawnee Playhouse’s Publicist.

This production of “I Do! I Do!” continues its run at The Shawnee Playhouse in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA until September 3rd. The next Shawnee Playhouse presentations will include “The Music Man” June 18th - August 28th, “The Last of the Red Hot Lovers” July 2nd - September 5th, Ronald Dahl’s “Willy Wonka Junior” July 8th - August 28th and “The Secret Garden” July 16th - August 29th. 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 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.

Photograph provided by www.theshawneeplayhouse.com.

The First June Meeting

The Celebration of the Arts (COTA) held their General Meeting at The Deer Head Inn on Tuesday June 8th to continue with their plans for their 33rd Annual Jazz and Arts Festival which will take place September 10th - 12th in Delaware Water Gap, PA. The festival includes an Artist Reception at The Antoine Dutot Gallery for their Music Motif Show, an evening of Classical Music, Theater, and Dance at The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain, and the two day grand festival featuring numerous Jazz greats performing throughout the remainder of the weekend. Over the past 32 years, COTA has become a Mecca for those who love jazz and art

Highlights of this particular meeting included the announcement of COTA‘s new mission statement which was revised so everyone who wishes to become part of the festival and other endeavors are welcomed to participate. These endeavors includes workshops and other community minded activities to promote the arts and all that jazz. You’ll find more photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society COTA Meetings 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday June 22nd at 7:30pm at The Deer Head Inn. All are welcomed to attend especially as there is a need for volunteers to serve in a variety of areas. Please contact COTA at 570-424-2210 or explore their website at www.cotajazz.org for more information.

A Botanical Dreamland

The Dreamland Creations in Stroudsburg, PA held an Artists’ Reception on Sunday June 6th for their exhibition entitled, “The Flower Show.” A garden of visual delights met those who entered the gallery which was filled with a variety of forms and interpretations of the show’s theme. This included a photograph depicting a bag of flour.

The conversation blossomed throughout the evening as the wonderful foods and wine helped plant the seed of congeniality and it was a delight to experience its germination. Music was performed by Eryck Pelzer who was just fun to hear. The reception was enjoyable and that’s all in can really say about it as I happen to drink a bit too much wine to remember it all. But, what I do recall is good. I took lots of Photographs of the reception so I can remember more of it and you’ll find them in The Forwardian Arts Society Dreamland Creations 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

Those artists participating in “The Flower Show” include Jake Roth, Will Mohlenhoff, Shane Izykowski, Marcia Flammonde, Mary Fodness, Abby Braman, Judy Zarach, Mary McCauley, AnaMarie Hendricks, Myke Maldonado, John Kolbek, Jasmine Abrams, Gordon and Jean Perry, Don Manza, Narlene Jacobs, Thomas Augusta, J. J. Schutz, Sherley Escribano, Victoria Penna, Abbe Auninger, Omni Parker, Allison Gray, Jennifer Smith, Brianne Ace, Irene Bartz, David Shappert, Joseph Landolfa, Danielle Franzetta, Andrew Collenburg, Stephen Lippay, Barbara Courable, Scott Nichol, and Heather Magnano. I may have some of the names misspelled so please feel free to contact me with the correct letters. The Exhibition continues until June 30th.

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 titled, “The Pin Up Show.” The reception will take place Sunday July 11th beginning at 4pm. The Exhibition will continue until July 30th. Please Contact The Dreamland Creations at 570-421-6313 or at www.myspace.com/dreamlandcreations for more about all they have to offer along with artists’ information.

Cheeky to Abstraction

The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse in Stroudsburg, PA is currently presenting an exhibition featuring works of Abstract and Computer Images created by The Pocono Photo Club Membership and will continue throughout the month of June. I didn’t have a chance to attend the Opening Reception which was held Friday June 4th, but I did manage to see the work on Sunday June 6th as The Forwardian Arts Society Visual Art Lovers’ Gathering was scheduled to take place. I was the only person to show up so I took the opportunity to casually stroll around the coffeehouse and take a look at the offerings.

A variety of forms, subjects, and colors touched my eyes going right to my very subconscious where all abstractions have a way of making sense. This tends to heighten my perceptiveness as my conscious mind receives an interpretation it seldom encounter in the waking world. In other words, the work allowed me to go beyond the ordinary day to day experiences as I wandered into another realm. It was a nice trip. You’ll find more Photographs of what I took during my visit to the exhibition in The Forwardian Arts Society Cheeky Monkey 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

Those photographers participating in the show included Robert Ace, Patti Alleger, Maureen Cunningham, George Dabronsky, Terry Flatt, Eric Goins, Shane Izykowski, Narlene Jacobs, Leslie Nagy, Laurinda Faye Rubin, and Linda Stevenson. The Pocono Photo Club is open to anyone having an interest in photography regardless of skill level offering an opportunity to learn more about art form and to share individual photographic knowledge or experiences with other members. They also offer monthly programs and field trips. They meet on the third Tuesday of each month at ESU in the Lower Level of the Dansbury Building at 7pm. Please Explore their website at www.poconophotoclub.com for more information.

The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse offers a variety of coffee, drinks, and culinary treats along with events such as the one described in this article. The next event will be their “Just Say It” Open Reading which is presently scheduled to take place Thursday June 10th and at 7pm. The Forwardian Arts Society is scheduled to hold a Music Lovers’ Gathering on Thursday June 17th at 6pm. a Literary Lovers’ Gathering on Thursday June 24th at 6pm, and a Visual Art Lovers‘ Gathering on Sunday July 11th at 3pm. In addition to these events, Lens Jams is scheduled to perform on Wednesday Evenings beginning at 6pm featuring smooth jazz and rock on acoustic guitars, and Apezilla on Saturdays beginning at 6pm featuring pop and classic rock. Please Contact The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse at 570-420-8222 for more information.

The Forwardian Arts Society is a fellowship for people who love the arts who encourages, supports, and loves the creative community through its promotional and other service orientated endeavors. These include holding Gatherings for those who enjoy a variety of creative disciplines. Please Contact The Forwardian Arts Society at 570-269-3348 or through their website at www.theforwardianartssociety.com for more information.

Getting on the Mark.

The 2nd Annual Pocono Raceway Festival was held in Stroudsburg, PA throughout the very warm summer day of Saturday June 5th which made it all the more enjoyable to experience. The air was filled with a variety of music emanating from many locations touching each ear as it wandered down the closed streets. The air was also filled with some tantalizing aromas from the culinary delights as well as the conversations of friends greeting one another which included those who have met for the first time.

To put it simply, the day was a lot of fun. This was true even for those of us who have no interest in the sport of auto racing. The friendly nature of the festival goers and realizing not everyone there were planning to attend the first NASCAR Sprint Cup race of the season which was scheduled to be held at The Pocono Raceway in Long Pond, PA the following week had a lot to do with this. It was good to meet them as well.

A great deal of activity was going on during the festival. There were, as I’ve mentioned, countless bands and musicians along with vendors selling everything from Jewelry and clothes to home additions to the GOP candidate Rosemary Brown seeking support for her bid for the PA Representative position in the upcoming elections. And, there was plenty of food as well. The stationary restaurants and café like the Cheeky Monkey who had a special booth outside their Coffeehouse while The Commuter’s Café located in Delaware Water Gap, PA had a spot along the street serving some very tantalizing food throughout the day.

The music surrounding those who came to enjoy the festival included Randy Bigness. Christian Porter, and Sinners Saints which were all followed by the headline feature Molly Hatchet. Other Artists and Artisans included Silpada Jewelry, Peacelilly Art Studio, The Mud Place, The Dye Connection, Summer Kitchen Soaps, Nicole Snyder’s Handmade Jewelry, Aimee and Patrick Doyle of Scentsy, The Shawnee Mountain Ski Area, West Wind Jewelry, and Juvenis Body Works. There were also some non profit groups such as those in the health services and those who mission is to shelter animals in need stationed throughout the town. It was a great opportunity to learn, partake, and enjoy the company of those who sat and stood by the tables.

Other events not directly related to the festival also took place. These were a display of Artist Victoria Penna’s work at The Starbucks Coffeehouse and the Artists’ Reception at The Main Street Jukebox for their exhibition titled, “Stop The Music” featuring work from a variety of photographers who have captured some stunning images from the concerts in Rock and Jazz they have attended. Both exhibitions continue until the end of June.

The Forwardian Arts Society held their Photography Lover’s Gathering during the festival. This provided an opportunity for those who enjoy taking pictures to gather and partake of all the photogenic offerings a particular event or location has. The next Photography Lover’s Gathering is scheduled for Sunday July 4th and will take place during the Freedom Festival at The Dansbury Park in East Stroudsburg, PA. Please contact The Forwardian Arts Society for more information.

The festival was organized by The Sherman Theatre located in Stroudsburg, PA and offers a variety of entertainment ranging from performances by the Arte Shaw orchestra to those provided by the local Hard Core and Heavy Metal bands. Please feel free to contact The Sherman Theater at 570-420-2808 for more information about the festival and their upcoming shows. You’ll find more Photographs taken during the festival in our Pocono Raceway Festival 2010 and Photography Lovers Gathering 2010 Galleries at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

Contact information available of those mentioned in this article are Randy Bigness at www.myspace.com/randybignessproductions, Christian Porter at www.myspace.com/christianportermusic, Sinners Saints at www.sinnersaints.com, Silpada Jewelry at www.mysilpada.com, Peacelilly Art Studio at peacelilly55@yahoo.com, The Mud Place at www.themudplace.com, The Dye Connection at www.TieDyeConncection.com, Summer Kitchen Soaps at www.summerkitchensoaps.com, Nicole Snyder’s Handmade Jewelry at nikkipagecmt@hotmail.com, Aimee and Patrick Doyle of Scentsy at www.lostmywick.com, The Shawnee Mountain Ski Area at www.shawneemt.com, West Wind Jewelry at westwindjewelrycompany@gmail.com, GOP Candidate for State Representative Rosemary Brown at www.brownforrep.com, Juvenis Body Works at www.juvenisbodyworks.com, The Commuter’s Café at commuterscafe@gmail.com, Sherman Theater at www.shermantheater.com, The Main St. Jukebox at www.myspace.com/mainstjukebox, and The Forwardian Arts Society at www.theforwardianartssociety.com.

Film Review: Harry Brown

Film Review: Harry Brown
Directed by: Daniel Barber
Performances by: Michael Caine and Emily Mortimer
Film Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz

The film “Harry Brown” had its World Premiere as a "Special Presentation" at the 2009 Toronto International Film Festival and late was released in the UK and later in the US this year. Upon hearing about the film prior to seeing it, this reviewer could not help himself but to think about a recent film with similar aspects in its plot made in 2008. The film I’m referring to is Clint Eastwood’s “Gran Torino.” Both films are about an aging war veteran who deal with local gangs. Although the Michael Caine’s Harry Brown character and Clint Eastwood’s Walt Kowalski turns to violence to solve their problems, the similarities end there.

This might be due to the difference how the US film industry approaches a subject than other countries. Clint Eastwood kicks gang members’ butt with great bravado while Michael Caine meets with some success in dealing with his foes but not quite as gracefully as someone in a US Action film would. He has all the foibles any elderly person would and this brings a degree of reality to the film lacking in the counterpart this reviewer mentioned.

Comparisons aside, “Harry Brown” establishes itself as a very gritty crime drama from the very first frames of film. It opens with a gang initiation in which a new member is given drugs and a gun. He then goes on a killing spree murdering a young woman who is walking with her infant son in a carriage. He and his friends speed away only to be killed by a motorist they neglect to see. The angry narcissism and the desire to live a fast paced life is felt throughout these opening sequences as is a feeling of revulsion of what the characters are portraying.

The film soon introduces the audience to Harry Brown who is an older man and has become orderly in his approach to life. He is slow and deliberate in his actions as he maintains the long term relationships he has established over the many years of his life. This is even true of his daughter who passed away in the 1970s and that of his recently departed wife. It is only when his closest friend is killed by a gang does he foregoes his promise to his wife to leave his military approach to life behind him and takes arms against his friend’s murderers.

The contrasts between gang life and that of those like Harry Brown creates an interesting tension throughout the film. It caused many to walk out during it and some has noted this was the worst film they have seen in quite some time. Although this reviewer agrees the film was disturbing as the violence was over the top. It’s also true the characters in the film have very little redeeming traits leaving the audience uninspired by what the film presents. However, the fact the film refuses to flinch during it’s most violent episodes and it’s disregard to how anyone looks to the audience makes the film very interesting to this reviewer.

The film is almost as narcissistic as the gang members it presents but it also has a degree of reflection found in the maturity of Harry Brown. The film also reminds its audience criminally violent behavior isn’t only delegated to the young nor is compassion a traits solely possessed by the old. This, perhaps, was an aspect of the film most disturbing as it asks the audience to contemplate if the distance between them and the gang members depicted in the film are all that far apart. This is a hard pill to swallow and our desire to deny the possibility makes it all the more harder to do so.

The film ends with the area Harry Brown lives quite and peaceful. Harry is seen walking into a tunnel where the gangs frequented. The film fades to black as he enters leaving the audience with a sense of ambivalence. Is the tunnel safe for him to travel through or are there gangs still lurking in the shadows? And, if Harry does encounters a gang member, who is the more dangerous of the two?

“Harry Brown” is rated R and is being shown at The Pocono Community Theater in East Stroudsburg, PA. For information regarding times of this and other films currently being show at the theater, please call 570-421-3456. 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 June 4th 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 quite agreeable although the quality of the film was disagreed upon. But, none left with a desire to wreck violence on others participating in the discussion. You’ll find photographs from previous discussions in The Forwardian Arts Society Film and Chat Gathering 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts. We invite you to join us Friday July 2nd to watch a film and participate in an equally stimulating and peaceful conversation. Please contact me through my profile for more information.