Wednesday, October 29, 2008

The Milford Magazine Comes to Monroe County

The Milford Magazine* of Milford, PA held a Launch Party to celebrate the publication of their November 2008 Issue at The Shawnee Inn and Resort* in Shawnee on The Delaware, PA on Wednesday October 29th. The intimate gathering of supporters shared some meaningful conversations sprinkled with good humor and fellowship. It was great meeting some of those behind all the articles, editorials, and pictorials this wonderful publication has become known for.

Those in attendance included Amy Bridge and Michael Zimmer of The Milford Magazine*, Jason and Monica Startari, Tara J. Brinker, Robert Howell*, and Jeremy Wo * all of The Shawnee Inn*, Alicia M. Quinn of The Pocono Mountains Visitors’ Bureau, and Arline M. Smeltz. The next Launch Party for The Milford Magazine* is scheduled to be held at The Bedea and Soul Day Spa at the Hotel Fauchere in Milford, PA.

Please Explore The Milford Magazine* Website for more information and to discover more about the publication. You’ll find several photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society The Milford Magazine Comes to Monroe County Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

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

Monday, October 27, 2008

The Terry Garland Show

The ArtMusic Coffeehouse* in East Stroudsburg presented Terry Garland Show on Sunday October 26th as part of their House Concert Series hosted by Don Slepian* who also performed some pieces to calm the appreciative audience before they moved to the sounds of guitarist Terry Garland (www.terrygarland.com) as they experienced some toe tapping and hand clapping blues. Among those who partook of the event were Jan Slepian*, Arline M. Smeltz* along with Greg and Hong Waltzer*. Please Explore The ArtMusic Coffeehouse Website to discover their next house concert and how to attend. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society The Terry Garland Show Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

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

Saturday, October 25, 2008

Indies Rock Moves The Sherman

The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA presented another show in their Independent Rock Series on Friday October 24th featuring bands who are on the cusps of making if big in the music industry. They included The Patchwork Quilt Fallacy*, Christian Porter*, Friday Night Parking Lots*, and Coffee and Smoke* performing an interesting mixture of folk, acoustic, and other forms of rock to please the ear an inner eyes of those who experienced the show. The evening was ended with an eclectic performance by Dreams of Fire whose theatricality and variety in styles not only enhanced the event, but brought a feeling of transcendence to many who were there.

The performers were greeted by an audience of a medium size but their enthusiasm and signs of appreciation overpopulated the theatre. Those among the fortunate were Richard Berkowitz* and Cheryl Yost* of The Sherman Theatre* and Arline M. Smeltz*. There were also a number of representatives from the media along with Lulu of Love N Music (www.myspace.com/lovenmusiclive) and Earl Kessler, Jr. whose advertising and design business creates posters for numerous events.

The next show at The Sherman Theatre* will be their Annual Halloween Party on Friday October 31st beginning at 10pm to include a screening of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show“ at Midnight. Please Explore The Sherman Theatre* Website for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Indies Rock Moves The Sherman Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

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

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Theatrical Review: The Hobbit

THE HOBBIT
Written by: Markland Taylor
As adapted from the novel by J. R. R. Tolkien
Directed by: Prof. Stephanie Daventry French*
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz

The East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* of PA presented their Children’s Theatre production of “The Hobbit” which is based on J. R. R. Tolkien's novel as adapted for the stage by Markland Taylor. As those of you who are J. R. R. Tolkien fans know, “The Hobbit” is about the adventures of a reluctant hobbit named Bilbo Bagins who sets out on a journey to the Misty Mountains with some companions to obtain the treasures guarded by a fierce dragon named Smaug. “The Hobbit” was later followed by a more mature undertaking by J. R. R. Tolkien in a series of books collectively known as “The Lord of The Rings” which recently became popular by the films by Peter Jackson.

The play presented at ESU touched upon as many of the main aspects of the novel it was adapted from as it could in the allotted hour and half time period of the production. Most children productions are created to be brief as it‘s commonly felt longer shows would bore the children into restlessness. Although some of the excitement one finds in the novel was lost due to this factor, this production remained an enjoyable experience.

The scenery (in spite of some technical difficulties on the afternoon I attended) kept to the ESU Theatre tradition of being of a high quality to the point of becoming a character in the production by its own rite. The acting also met the high standard one expects from the students of ESU which was especially true when many conceptions of some characters created by the Peter Jackson films were forgotten by the audience attending this production.

The only thing I found lacking was some of the action seemed to stop during some parts of the play and it seemed a bit too cerebral for a children production. Yet, as I looked around toward the children of the audience, I discovered these observations on my part did not hold any importance to them. Their enjoyment was complete as something about the production appeared to touched them on a very deep level. It began to touch me as well. It can only be described as indescribable but it can be likened to the feeling one experiences during an encounter with something profoundly still creating a tingling sensation of a deeper understanding of oneself and those around us.

The cast consisted of D. E. Ausem* who (as well as serving as a Shop Carpenter) portrayed Gandalf, Smaug, and Spider, Christie Berlane* who (as well as serving as Stage II’s Secretary and a Shop Carpenter) portrayed Bilbo Baggins, Andrew M. Confair who portrayed Bert, a Goblin, and a Lake-Town Guard, Michael Demyan* who (as well as serving as the Master Carpenter and Props Master) portrayed the Master of Esgaroth, a Dumb Elf, and a Wood-Elf Guard, Shamus Halloran portrayed a Great Goblin, The Wood-Elf King, William, and a Wolf, Emily Harrison who portrayed The Lord of the Eagles, Tawny, a Spider, and a Goblin, Rachel Mack* who (as well as serving as Stage II’s President and as a Shop Carpenter) portrayed Gollum, Elrond, and a Lake-town Guard, Jessica Pachuta who portrayed an Elf, a wolf, and a spider, Angelo Rivilla III* who portrayed Bard, Second Goblin, an Elf, and a Wood-Elf Guard, and Alex Wirth who portrayed Thorin Oakenshield.

The East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* of PA presented their Children’s Theatre production of “The Hobbit” by J. R. R. Tolkien as adapted for the stage by Markland Taylor was Directed by Prof. Stephanie Daventry French* of the ESU* Theatre Department and Stage Managed by Erica Moschette (who also served on the Costume Construction Crew and Movement Coach) with Jenell Anne Manzi (Stage II’s Vice-President and the production’s Publicity Director) and Scott Ross (who also served as a Shop Carpenter) were the Assistant Stage Managers. The Set and Costume Designer was Yoshinori Tanokura. The Lighting Designer was Dave Dougherty* with Daniel McLaughlin as the Assistant Sound Designer. The Sound Designer was John (AJ) Scognamiglio. The production’s Dramaturg was Amanda Kalinowski who also served as the Assistant Costume Designer, The Costume Shop Manager, and a Mask Artist. The Poster and Program Artist was Greg Back* while The Technical Director was Ken Larson. The Scenic Charge Artist was Anthony Garbarino* while the set construction was done by Brandon Gibney, Gregory Butierrez, Robert McIntyre (who also served as an Assistant Electrician and Light Board Operator), and Nicholas Pulsinelli with Mark “Calvus” Carbonaro serving in the set crew. The Mask Artists were Doug Brehony*, Samantha L. Hidebeitel (who also served as a Hair and Make-up Assistant), Jennifer Feldbruegge, Katie Simmons, and Kelly Hubiak while the Costume Construction Crew were Karen Schwander, the Children Theatre Class, and the cast. Hair and Make-up Assistants were Michelle DiBella* and Joanna Reckley while Michelle Tuite served as the Wardrobe Assistant. Luke Swiereczek served as The Sound Board Operator and as an Electrical Assistant. Kelly Keegan was the Box Office Manager and Virginia Green as the House Manager.

Unfortunately, this production of “The Hobbit” by J. R. R. Tolkien as adapted for the stage by Markland Taylor has completed its run and can no longer be seen. The next The East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* of PA Theatre Department’s production will be “Savage in Limbo” written by John Patrick Shanley and directed by Prof. Susan P. O’Hearn. It will be performed November 18th - 23rd in the Smith-McFarland Theatre of the Fine and Performing Arts Building. Please contact The ESU* Theatre Department at 570-422-3483 for more information and to reserve your ticket.

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

Bowfire Returns to The Sherman

The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA presented Bowfire (???) on Saturday October 18th in a triumphant return to the theatre delighting all who were among the large audience who attended the wonderful extravaganza. Cheryl Yost*, Bill Kelly*, Chris Conners*, and Richard Berkowitz* of The Sherman Theatre* were there to enjoy the music along with Arline M. Smeltz*, Sharon*, Gary Lambert*, Anna, Don, and Rose Busteed*, and many more.

The next shows at The Sherman Theatre* will be more of their Independent Rock Series on October 24th and 25th and their Annual Halloween Party on Friday October 31st beginning at 10pm to include a screening of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show“ at Midnight. Please Explore The Sherman Theatre* Website for more information.

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

Food and Film at Kirkridge

The Kirkridge Retreat Center* in Bangor, PA held their Autumn Community Pot Luck Dinner and Film Night on Sunday October 12th featuring a screening of the film, "Secrets and Lies" followed by a pot luck dinner with some discussion and fellowship. The film was about a woman’s search of her birth mother and the results of her discovery. A variety of foods were presented and the conversations were rich in common interests. Jean Richardson* and Nancy Scheirer* both of The Kirkridge Retreat Center* were among those who enjoyed the event as was Arline M. Smeltz*.

The next Community Pot Luck Dinner at The Kirkridge Retreat Center* scheduled to take place is Sunday December 7th at 4pm. Attendees are asked to bring side dishes and desserts while a Turkey will be provided. There will also be a variety of entertainment provided by musicians and other performing artists. Please Explore The Kirkridge Retreat Center* Website for more information.

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

Indies Rock The Sherman

The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA presented Years Spent Cold on Saturday October 11th along with Weight of the Crown, Beside the Throne, Rosary Ligature, As Life Ends, and more as part of their Independent Rock Series. The event featured some of the best Hard Core music from local musicians which was enjoyed by those who came to experience it. Richard Berkowitz* and Theresa Woehrel* of The Sherman Theatre* were there to enjoy the music.

The next show at The Sherman Theatre* will be Bowfire on Saturday October 18th at 8pm. Please Explore The Sherman Theatre* Website at www.shermantheatre.com for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Indies Rock The Sherman Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

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

The USAF at The Sherman

The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA hosted The USAF Academy of Colorado Springs, CO presentation of their USAF Academy Band’s performance entitled, “Windscapes” on Friday October 10th featuring a full orchestra under the direction of Lt. Col. Larry Lang. The concert presented a variety of musical numbers which included classical works, swing time melodies, show tunes, and patriotic songs to a large audience of over 1000 people which included several local dignitaries who presented checks to The Sherman Theatre* in show of their financial support for its endeavors. The entire performance was well received and deservedly so.

Richard Berkowitz*, Cheryl Yost*, and Bill Kelly* all of The Sherman Theatre* were there along with Mark Litchy*, Susan MeCool* of the Monroe County Commissioners, Laura Goss* of the Pocono Arts Council*, PA State Representative John Siptroth*, Gary Lambert*, and Arline M, Smeltz* along with Anna, Donald, and Rose Busteed*.

The next shows at The Sherman Theatre* will be their Independent rock series on Saturday October 11th and Bowfire on Saturday October 18th at 8pm. Please Explore The Sherman Theatre* Website at www.shermantheatre.com for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society The USAF at The Sherman Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

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

An Amish Comedy Night

The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA presented the return of Raymond: The Amish Comic* on Saturday October 4th. The large audience was treated to some really funny material which brought tears of laughter throughout their being. Richard Berkowitz*, Theresa Woehrel*, and Bill Kelly* all of The Sherman Theatre* were there along with Arline M, Smeltz*.

The next shows at The Sherman Theatre* will be The USAF Academy Winds at 7pm on Friday October 10th and The Independent rock series on Saturday October 11th. Please Explore The Sherman Theatre* Website for more information. Due to lack of photographs, The Forwardian Arts Society did not establish a gallery.

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

Photography at The Jukebox

The Main St. Jukebox* in Stroudsburg, PA held an Opening Reception on Saturday October 4th featuring the photographic works of MJ McCauley (www.myspace.com/mjmccauleyda). The exhibition also included works created by the members of The Stroudsburg Art Alliance* (www.myspace.com/sbgartalliance). Please Explore The Main St. Jukebox* Website for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Photography at The Jukebox Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

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

Looking Deep at Artspace

The Artspace Gallery* in Stroudsburg, PA held an Opening Reception on Saturday October 4th featuring the works of Doug Gilbert in an exhibition entitled, “Looking Deep.” The evening included a performance by Hong Waltzer* upon the Zither which is an ancient musical instrument originating from China accompanied by her husband Greg* who provided percussion on various instruments. Will Daskal* were among the many who attended the event. The exhibition continues until October 27th. Please Explore The Artspace Gallery* Website for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Looking Deep at Artspace Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

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

The Carnival of Animals

The School of Visual and Performing Arts (SVPA)* in Stroudsburg, PA presented “The Carnival of Animals” on Saturday October 4th featuring a variety of SVPA* dance students and animals from various area shelters. The event was accompanied by a special carnival which also served to support the shelters. It was an enjoyable afternoon filled with fun, dance, and the satisfaction of supporting a worthy cause.

Mark Litchy*, Diane Verdi*, Kathy Kroll*, and many others attended the event. Please Explore The School of Visual and Performing Arts* Website for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society The Carnival of Animals Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

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

Joe Bouchard at The Sherman

The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA presented Joe Bouchard* (formally of “The Blue oyster Cult”) and his band on Friday October 3rd preceded by The Joe Carlton Band*. The small but appreciative crowd was treated to some memorable classic rock tune along with some new material. Richard Berkowitz*, Theresa Woehrel*, and Bill Kelly* all of The Sherman Theatre* were there along with Arline M, Smeltz* were among those who attended.

The next shows at The Sherman Theatre* will be the return of Raymond The Amish Comic on Saturday October 4th at 8pm and The USAF Academy Winds at 7pm on Friday October 10th. Please Explore The Sherman Theatre* Website for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Joe Bouchard at The Sherman Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

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

Monday, September 29, 2008

Jamming at The Sherman

The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA presented Keller Williams (www.KellerWilliams.net) on Sunday September 28th featuring Keith Mosley on Base, Gibb Droll on Guitar, and Jeff Sipe on Drums. The evening was filled with magic as the huge audience jammed along with the songs the band performed. It was a wild yet calm night indicative of the kind of experiences found in these extraordinary shows.

Those swaying, dancing, and allowing the music to take them to a higher consciousness included Richard Berkowitz*, Cheryl Yost*, Theresa Woehrel*, and Bill Kelly* all of The Sherman Theatre* along with Gary Lambert* and Arline M, Smeltz*.

The next shows at The Sherman Theatre* will be The Joe Bouchard Band which will be Opened by The Rob Carlton Band on Friday October 3rd at 8pm and the return of Raymond The Amish Comic on Saturday October 4th at 8pm. Please Explore The Sherman Theatre* Website at www.shermantheatre.com for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Jamming at The Sherman Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

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

Sunday, September 28, 2008

Karaoke Sherman

The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA presented a Karaoke Night entitled, “So You Think You Can Sing?” on Saturday September 27th featuring an opportunity for would be singing sensations to strut their stuff to their favorites tunes in front of a live and lively audience along with a professional sound system and stage lighting. A number of participants demonstrated an extraordinary talent and well deserved the supportive applause the audience share with them. There were, of course, some sour notes but this did not take away anything from the enjoyment of the event as it only enhances its sense of fund and frivolity for both the audience and participants. However, it was also a judged event and the winner received a recording session in the Sherman's recording studio while all proceeds went to benefit the PoconoArts Council* and The Sherman Theater* Capital Campaign.

The sizable audience included Richard Berkowitz*, Cheryl Yost*, and Bill Kelly* all of The Sherman Theatre* along with Our Friends From The Pocono Arts Council*, Suzanne McCool*, Arline M, Smeltz*. The next shows at The Sherman Theatre* will be The Keller Williams Concert on Sunday September 28th at 8pm featuring an unique experience for fans with blazing guitar wizardry and a masterful display of song craft, The Joe Bouchard Band Opened by The Rob Carlton Band on Friday October 3rd at 8pm, and the return of Raymond The Amish Comic on Saturday October 4th at 8pm.

Please Explore The Sherman Theatre* Website for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Karaoke Sherman Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

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

Saturday, September 27, 2008

Theatrical Review: Morning’s at Seven

MORNING’S AT SEVEN
Written by: Paul Osborn
Directed by: Sue Butler*
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz

The Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA presented The Center Stage Players* production of “Morning‘s At Seven” by Paul Osborn. The play is about a dysfunctional family from the 1930‘s who eventually learn from the adage, “You‘re only as sick as your secrets.” Their journey to this realization is filled with a great deal of humor which allowed each member of the audience to recognize their own relational peculiarities through a great deal of laughter.

The play was funny, produced well, and was an enjoyable theatrical experience. But, what made this production a real treat was to watch actors demonstrated their love for the theatrical arts performing on stage. This love went far beyond the love of being seen on stage to receive the adoration of fans (real or imagined). This love showed the dedication each actor has for his/her craft in which they endeavor to do the work to bring their character to life in a real and meaningful way. This work enhances the production and as it does the audience’s experience of it as they are more likely able to see themselves in each portrayal.

The cast consisted of Dave Hymes who portrayed Theodore (Thor) Swanson the Uncle often finds himself amazed by the antics of others, Pat Van Varick who portrayed Cora Swanson Thor’s wife who’s secret resentments creates in her a desire to live out their lives alone, Katherine Neville* (Center Stage Players’* Secretary) who portrayed Aaronetta Gibbs one of Cora’s sisters who lives with Cora and Thor while holding a secret about a dynamic of her relationship with them deep within her heart, Judy lawler who portrayed Ida Bolton Aaronetta and Cora’s sister and next door neighbor who is torn between her desire to have her son live with her forever and realizing his need to live his own life while endeavoring to hid the secret of her husband’s mental condition from the world, Jack Butler* who (while also serving as the Assistant Director) portrayed Carl Bolton Ida’s Husband who secret feelings of regret over his life’s decisions leads him to “spells” of debilitating depression, Patrick Turner* who portrayed Homer Bolton who secret conflicts between his desires to live his life while remaining his mother’s child leads to difficulties in realizing the full potentials of a romantic relationship, Barbara Jane Calchera who portrayed Myrtle Brown Homer’s long termed fiancé who is the production’s token “Normal” person who beings as excitement among the other characters as they meet someone from the outside of their dysfunctional restraints, Sue Butler who (while also serving as the Director) portrayed Esther Crampton Cora, Aaronetta, and Ida’s sister who secretly fears being along while wishing to be free of her controlling husband’s effects on her ability to be with her sisters, and Scott E. McIntosh who portrayed David Crompton Esther’s husband who learns his need to control and punish those who disobey him only leads to isolation and a more unpredictable life.

The Center Stage Players* production of “Morning‘s At Seven” by Paul Osborn was Directed by Sue Butler* (Center Stage Players’* President) with Jack Butler* Assisting (both of whom also created the set design) and Stage Managed by Lillian Ramirez-Gonzalez* (Center Sage Players‘* Secretary and served the production as a member of the box office staff). The Vice-President of The Center Stage Players is Mary Erm*. The Lighting Designer was Arthur Ritter. The Lighting and Sound Technicians were Eric Dwyer* and Marie Cannon. The Executive Director of The Shawnee Playhouse* is Midge McClosky* while the producers are Ginny and Charlie Kirkwood. Group Sales of their productions are handled by Mary Horn* while The Shawnee Playhouse publicity is handled by Amy Cramer*. The Box office staff includes Kasey Mesko, Kristen Gehling, and Barbara Ross.

This production of “Morning‘s At Seven” by Paul Osborn will continue its run at The Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA until October 26th and is recommended for those who would enjoy laughing at the characters in this play as the expose their secrets while discovering their own. The next Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA production will be “Blithe Spirit” by Noel Coward to be performed October 31st - November 9th. Those who enjoy the Passionate Art Lover level of membership in The Forwardian Arts Society are offered a $2.00 discount off the admission fee of The Shawnee Playhouse* Productions (excluding Children Theatrical Productions and those presented by non Shawnee Production Companies). Please contact The Shawnee Playhouse* at 570-421-5093 for more information and to reserve your ticket.

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

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Irish Rocks The Sherman

The Sherman Theatre* in Stroudsburg, PA presented The Young Dubliners on Tuesday September 23rd featuring the sounds of Irish Rock which were enjoyed by a small but lively crowd who appreciated every note and turn of the phrase the group presented. A great deal of dancing and clapping accompanied the performance to the delight of all who attended. The audience included Richard Berkowitz*, Cheryl Yost*, Gary Lambert*, Bill Kelly*, and Theresa Woehrel* all of The Sherman Theatre*along with my Myspace friend Niwana who was there with the Celtic Fife and Drum Corp. The next shows at The Sherman Theatre* will be A Karaoke Night entitled, “So You Think You Can Sing?” on Saturday September 27th at 7pm to benefit the PoconoArts Council and The Sherman Theater Capital Campaign and The Keller Williams Concert on Sunday September 28th at 8pm featuring an unique experience for fans with blazing guitar wizardry and a masterful display of song craft. Please Explore The Sherman Theatre* Website for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Irish Rocks The Sherman Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

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

Monday, September 22, 2008

Habitat Choral

The St. Paul Lutheran Church in Tannersville, PA presented the Monroe County Chapter of Habitat for Humanity’s Annual “Raise The Roof” concert to bring about more awareness relating to their work on Sunday September 21st featuring choirs from numerous churches throughout Monroe County, PA who performed individually and later combining their voices into one huge sound that was pleasing to the ear as well as the soul. The evening was filled with a variety of choral music all relating to a religious theme while encouraging those in attendance to discover ways within themselves to aid those seeking a place to dwell to do so. Those lending their talents to the program were Anna Busteed*, Suzanne McCool*, Caitlin Koch*, and Arline M. Smeltz*. Among those who were among the enchanted audience were Thomas, Rose, and Donald Busteed*. Please Explore The Habitat for Humanity Website for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Habitat Choral Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

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

Home Concert

The Don Slepian's* ArtMusic Coffeehouse in East Stroudsburg, PA presented the music of Don Slepian* on Saturday September 20th as part of their September 2008 Home Concerts Series. The evening was filled with wonderful music and even more wonderful conversation among the guest who attended this very intimate affair. Guest included Jan Julia Slepian* and Arline M. Smeltz*. Please Explore The ArtMusic Coffeehouse Website for more information. You’ll find several photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Home Concert Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

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

Saturday, September 20, 2008

It Happened at The Dutot

The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery* in Delaware Water Gap, PA hosted and Opening Reception on Friday September 19th for an exhibition entitled, “Song of the Spirit” featuring the works of Katherine Yvinskas* which comprised of a Quarter Century Retrospective of her creative endeavors. The variety of styles from her earlier pieces such as those entitled “Ties” and “Love is a Split Unity” served to demonstrate the evolution towards her later works which included pieces reflecting a desire to become more a part of her natural surroundings entitled, “Turtle Shell” and “Milk Thistle.” A common thread weaving this uncommon of creativity together seemed to be the adventurous passion in Ms. Yvinskas* approach she gives to her work.

The evening included an improvisational performance by Jazz great Dave Liebman* who created tuneful renderings inspired by his spontaneous impressions of the works he experienced. This was reminiscent of the “Happenings” which were frequent during the 1950s and 60s in which artists of many genres inspired each other to create spontaneous works in their own disciplines. This example of this endeavor enhanced the appreciation of the entire exhibition among those who attended leaving many to hope this form of creative expression will make a revival in the very near future.

Those attending the Opening Reception included Edgard Bernal*, Marty and Sue Wilson* of The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery*, Pat and Terri Gaughan*, and Edward and Connie Evans* of Gallery 705* in Stroudsburg, PA. The exhibition continues until October 5th. Please Explore The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery Website for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society It Happened at The Dutot Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

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