She & Him

I've always been a fan of Zooey Daschanel. The first time I saw her was in the television version of "Once Upon a Mattress" as Lady Larken alongside Matthew Morrison. Her voice is like pure silk and I really like her quirkiness. Some people find it annoying, I find it kind of adorable. She has a real vintage quality to her and most of her influences are similar to mine. She recently said in an interview that her hero growing up was Judy Garland. I can totally see that. Her show, "New Girl", on Fox is absolutely hilarious and lots of fun! It's probably me and Andrew's favorite comedy this season.

At any rate, I recently discovered her band, "She & Him" with M. Ward. I've been playing their Christmas album for about two months and loving it! So, I finally decided to get the other two albums (She & Him Volumes I & II). Being mainly a showtunes and standards guy, I'm not usually a huge fan of bands, but I LOVE these two! The original songs are really good and relaxing. Even the upbeat ones can be played while sipping a nice hot cup of tea or a martini (whatever mood you happen to be in). They also do some great covers like "Gonna Get Along Without You", a 50's tune that was also covered by Penny Marshall and Cindy Williams on the lp, "Laverne & Shirley Sing". It brought back a lot of childhood memories for me! One of my favorite songs by "She & Him" so far (aside from the entire Christmas album... it's flawless), is "Brand New Shoes" which I'll post under this. I haven't heard any music like this in a while. At least, I haven't heard any really modern music that pulls me in the way this has. Check them out if you haven't already! Also, I defy anyone not to develop a huge crush on Zooey ;)

My Week With Marilyn

Last week, Andrew took me to see "My Week With Marilyn". I've been very anxious to see it and it was well worth the wait! As a huge Marilyn Monroe fan, I was unsure and admittedly a little skeptical about the casting of Michelle Williams, even though she's a marvelous actress. I just didn't get Marilyn from her. However, she pleasantly surprised me! She was a perfect choice! She has that sex appeal mixed with an intoxicating vulnerability essential to anyone trying to evoke Marilyn. I've seen many actresses play her and some were brilliant, others, a cheap imitation, but Michelle managed to put her own spin on Marilyn's personality. I really enjoyed and appreciated the understanding and respect she had for the character and the lady herself.

Of all the Marilyn Monroe movies, I think I like this one the most because it's not a bio-pic. It doesn't start in the Norma Jean days, it doesn't focus on men or drugs or any of the other typical subjects. It focuses on the brief period in Marilyn's life when she was in England shooting "The Prince & The Showgirl" with Lawrence Olivier at Pinewood Studios. What's even more intriguing is that Marilyn really isn't the main character. The story is about Colin Clark, a young aspiring director. He lands a job as the 3rd assistant director on "Showgirl" alongside a cast of theatrical pros. The script is based on Colin's memoirs which he published after Marilyn's death. The two had a very brief and somewhat innocent affair that lasted a week during the filming. At the time, Marilyn was married to author, Arthur Miller. The cast is stellar. Judi Dench and Emma Watson have some standout supporting roles and Kenneth Branagh is a perfect Olivier! All in all, I'd say it's a very enjoyable, well acted, and most importantly (to me anyway) respectful portrait of people and a time. We all have periods of time in our life that we often reflect on that have a profound effect on us. This film portrays that nostalgic feeling beautifully and really hits home. You really get a sense of how much the people making the movie put into it and I think you get a glimpse of a side of Marilyn that's criminally underplayed.

"Judy: A Legendary Film Career" By: John Fricke

Last night, I finished John Fricke's newest glimpse into the life of my favorite legend, Judy Garland. Mr. Fricke is by far, the world's foremost Judy authority. I've read everything the man has ever put down on paper and never tire of his work! He manages to keep it fresh and entertaining without constantly repeating himself. He is lucky in that his subject (Judy Garland & The Wizard of Oz) is infinitely fascinating. The first book I ever read as a kid was actually Fricke's "Judy Garland: World's Greatest Entertainer". Ever since then, I've loved and appreciated his work. Any noteworthy release from Cd liner notes, to Dvd's, to books, to commentaries, have Fricke's name somewhere in the credits. He has his hands in every single pie (lucky for us Judy fanatics!).

Now, the book. This is a coffee table book, which I bought first in hardcover (and then on nook just to make it easier to read and carry around). As always, it's filled with some never before or rarely seen photos of Judy and it focuses on her film career pre, during, and post MGM. It's really a must for anyone interested in Judy or movies and the way the business worked and changed and evolved over the years. Each movie includes a list of cast, crew, details like Judy's songs, run time, release date etc. He then provides a brief synopsis of each film, followed by notes about the production, reviews from various sources including reviewers of the time and audience comment cards. Then there are stories and quotes from people involved in the film and included in each section is something Judy herself said about the film. It's really a great read and as someone who's read a LOT about Judy, her career, her movie years her concert years, etc, etc... I appreciated that instead of rehashing and overdoing the details, he kept it simple and gave us the important information and focused more on some things we perhaps didn't know. It's clear he knew exactly who he was writing for, which I personally appreciated a great deal.

This book is a great introduction to anyone who's just getting interested in Judy Garland or in movie making as well as a great addition to the collection of anyone who just can't get enough Judy (like me) ;). So, in conclusion, FABULOUS job, John! Please never stop sharing any knowledge you acquire about this extraordinary woman and her extraordinary life!

Other Books By John Fricke:
(I highly recommend them ALL)...

Judy Garland: A Portrait In Art & Anecdote

Judy Garland: World's Greatest Entertainer

The Wizard Of Oz: An Illustrated Guide To The Timeless Movie Classic

100 Years Of Oz

The Wizard Of Oz Official 50th Anniversary Pictorial History

"A Star Is born" (Blu-Ray) Book (attached)

John Fricke (Judy Garland/Wizard Of Oz Historian)

"Judy & Me"

I'm not really sure how to start this entry. As anyone who knows me (or reads this blog) can attest, I'm a Judy Garland fanatic. It goes beyond your run of the mill fan or admirer. It's deeper than that. Judy is one of those people that manifests that kind of obsessive "She can do no wrong" fan. There are only a handful of people in the Entertainment business who have been able to do this. Among them, of course are Barbra Streisand, Frank Sinatra, Madonna, and more recently, Lady GaGa.

But this isn't about any of that really. This is about my personal experience. My entire life people have asked me over and over again, "Why do you love her so much?" and I can never give them a straight answer. I asked several people about this who've known me for a very long time and know me very well. They had some interesting things to say and nothing that I can argue or disagree with. It baffles even me. But really, do we ever know exactly why we love someone or something? I mean isn't that what chemistry is? It's just there.

I first discovered Judy at the age of two. "The Harvey Girls" was on television and I was sitting in my little blue fuzzy chair (which I refused to give up until I was about seven and it was in shreds) and I will never forget the first time I saw her. She stepped off a train during a number and that was it. It was literally love at first sight. I couldn't take my eyes off of her for a second. When the movie was over I wanted more of her. My mother, probably a few days later, the timeline is a little fuzzy since I was barely a toddler, showed me "Meet Me In St. Louis" and I always carry the image of Judy sitting in the window singing "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas". Then the big moment came. I finally saw "The Wizard of Oz"! And really, is there any coming back after that? I was a full blown addict!

I'd look at this woman on the screen and stare into those big brown eyes (I used to wait patiently for any close up of her face) and I just knew that whatever it was inside of me that I couldn't express, she had too and would understand. It was instinctive. And it has been ever since. As I grew and learned more about her (good and bad) the similarities became almost scary. People describe her "erratic" behavior all the time in interviews and it doesn't phase me because I understand it. Perhaps that says something about me, but the fact remains that my adoration for her goes far beyond her incomparable talent or even her extraordinary life. It's her. It's the kind of person she was. The humor she used to overcome whatever difficulties she faced, the GOOD things. Not this "tragic" nonsense. Judy Garland was NOT a tragedy by any means. Yes, like all of us, tragic things happened in her life, but they never defined her and that's why people love her weather they know it or not. She once wrote about her audience "They match their own sadness and happiness to mine and they identify with it. It's tragedy, baggy pants comedy, and overcoming troubles". Isn't that what we all want?

Judy was found dead at forty seven. Her life was a whirlwind and she had about fifteen minutes off in her forty seven years. But my God, what a life in that short time! Given the circumstances she was under, it's a miracle she survived that long. That alone is a testament to the kind of woman she was. This is a PERSON who should not be objectified or defined by drugs, fame, behavior, troubles, or anything of the sort. This is a woman who should be celebrated over and over for giving us so much and getting so little in return. I don't feel sorry for Judy. She wouldn't want that. She lived the most marvelous life and she did everything she ever wanted to do. That's a life. Perhaps it burned bright and flickered out fast, but she will be remembered forever and live on through her immense talent, her delightful wit, her brilliant contributions to the entertainment industry and popular culture, and in the hearts of those who loved and continue to love her so much. Since her death, she has only increased in popularity. New generations continue to discover her and fall under her spell. Every child knows Dorothy and in time, they find out there's much more to her than a girl in pigtails.

In conclusion, I suppose I still don't have a specific answer as to why I love Judy Garland. Many people don't understand it. In fact, just today, someone who shall remain nameless lectured me on how "wrong" and "retarded" it was. Not only did that not phase me, it made me even more happy to give in to my love and adoration for her. There are so many reasons to love her, so I suppose my answer, if I must have one is... I love Judy because she's Judy. There will never be anyone like her and that's as it should be.

Lawrence “The Fashion Guy” Zarian Macy's Fashion Show

Today, after a job fair I went to, I had pretty much an entire day to kill before I went to the theater to see "Aspects Of Love" with Erica, so I went to visit my friend, Eric for a while. Eric works at Macy's and had to be in work at 5:15. So, since I didn't need to be at the Walnut Street Theater until about 7, I had some more time to kill and walked him to work. Upon arriving, we saw flashing lights, and a runway set up in the main part of the store! As it turned out, Lawrence Zarian, also known as "The Fashion Guy" on "Regis & Kelly" was previewing his spring collection in a small fashion show! I managed to get a seat right in the front row so I could see every detail. I met some very nice ladies except one who tried to start a fight with me over the free shopping tote we all got (of which there were hundreds. I hate people sometimes). That aside, the show was absolutely breathtaking! He had some incredibly chic and stylish pieces and I wasn't expecting that much. The color blocking segmant was especially enjoyable. I really love the idea of color blocking and I'm glad it's so in right now. Not so matchy matchy and it's a really great way to have FUN with what you're wearing! Perhaps my favorite thing about the show (and him) was that he had a lot of fur pieces and REAL fur! None of this faux nonsense! It was beautiful! And looked so incredibly soft and comfortable! I really hope some loon didn't go after a model with a can of spray paint. It'd be a travesty to ruin those pieces... and I guess it'd be bad for the model too, but save the fur!!!

I was also pleasantly surprised to run into two of my friends from New Jersey, Gina, who's a fashion major, and Erika who's now majoring in Culinary Arts. It was great seeing them and we had a wonderful time! Lawrence was very interactive with the audience and very funny! He posed for pictures right from the stage and after the show gave fashion consultations and a little personal shopping for the attendants of the show individually. I didn't have enough time to stay for that, but I did have a little while to talk to him and I mentioned to him that I adored one of the rings he had on the model. It's a multi-cluster pearl & crystal ring and very interesting! So he asked the model to come out, she was still wearing it. He said, "Do you really like it that much?" of course I said yes! And he then said "Try it on". It was my size! And he gave it to me! I thought that was just the nicest thing ever! It's not out yet and it's going to be part of his new collection. He said as of now there are only two in existence since it hasn't been mass produced yet! It's going to retail for a pretty penny too, so I really lucked out! I have to say, I've never had a bad celebrity run-in except with Montel Williams. But that's a story for another time. This turned out to be a really fabulous day & I now have a divine new piece of jewelry to show for it!

"Aspects Of Love"

Tonight, my dear friend, Erica, who is a columnist for Philly.com took me with her press passes to see Andrew Lloyd Webber's "Aspects Of Love". It's one of the few shows I didn't know much about. I did know some of the music, but had no idea what the premise was, so I thought it would be fun to be surprised. Boy was I EVER! This is officially my new favorite Webber show! It was also, single-handedly, the sexiest show I've ever seen! We both left the Theatre with crushes on the entire cast. It has everything... sex, three ways, lesbianism, incest, under age sex and drinking, and all set to the backdrop of 1940's Paris. Who could ask for anything more? The music, of course, was lovely and my jaw literally dropped several times! The writing was quite clever and very adult. I'm a hard one to shock, but this show really got me and I'd love to see it again! It's running until October 23rd. Absolutely one of the best times I've had recently in the theatre along with "Meat Man", which is premiering (as a movie) on Saturday, September 18th! Here's Erica's blurb about the show. She put it much better than I could, so I decided to snag hers ;)


Take two young people, add a backdrop of France, and throw in love for good measure, and you may have the perfect cocktail for a standard romantic musical. Aspects of Love, playing at the Walnut Street Theatre through October 23, begins with just such an unassuming premise.

But as fans of Andrew Lloyd Webber know, the award-winning composer of Evita, Phantom of the Opera, and Sunset Boulevard best unleashes his musical torrents in atmospheres of dark passion and forbidden desire. Aspects of Love, which originally opened in 1989, coquettishly lures modern audiences into strange and unheard of geometries of lust. Try not to get dizzy as the love triangle between aspiring actress Rose Vibert, young soldier Alex Dillingham, and his uncle George rapidly expands into a love hexagon.

Through the skillful direction of Bruce Lumpkin, the Walnut Street Theatre production of Aspects of Love gives poignancy back to the well-worn adage of “wine, women, and song.” The only con to seeing this musical? Like any good magic spell, you just might find yourself falling for the first person you see once you leave the theater.


--
Erica J. Minutella
Philadelphia Freelance Writer and Editor
Writing Portfolio
ejminutella@gmail.com

"What Matters Most" Barbra Streisand

This post is a tad overdue, but I've been a little busy (listening to this album!). Barbra's new record, "What Matters Most" is a tribute to the brilliant lyricists (and close personal friends) Marilyn and Alan Bergman. The song choices are flawless and Barbra, as usual, managed to put a divinely unique spin on some classics like the haunting "The Windmills Of Your Mind". You literally can't hear her breathe throughout the entire song. Great piece of musical engineering! Each song on the album is one that Barbra has never sung or recorded before, which is always exciting! My two personal favorites on the cd are "Something New In My Life" and "That Face". Both remind me a great deal of my best friend, Andrew and "Something New In My Life" actually got me a little verklempt! I think this may be my favorite since 2003's "The Movie Album". By anyone's standards, at 69 years old, Barbra is still the greatest living singer we have and she doesn't sound a day over 22! That voice, that gift... is just timeless and as close to perfection as any human being can come! Yes, I'm a Barbra fanatic and love everything she does, but that aside, you can't deny that the woman has talent and that this album is a real work of art! So, go out and get it, listen, and enjoy the magic that is Barbra Streisand! <3

Track Listing:
(It also comes in a 2 disc deluxe edition with the second cd featuring previously released recordings she's done of the Bergman's songs. If you're like me and have everything she's done, I'd recommend the single disc. Otherwise, it's a great compilation of some great music to have!)


Disc: 1
1. The Windmills Of Your Mind
2. Something New In My Life
3. Solitary Moon
4. Nice n Easy
5. Alone In The World
6. So Many Stars
7. The Same Hello, The Same Goodbye
8. That Face
9. I ll Never Say Goodbye
10. What Matters Most
Disc: 2
1. The Way We Were
2. What Are You Doing The Rest Of Your Life?
3. You Don’t Bring Me Flowers
4. Papa, Can You Hear Me?
5. Pieces Of Dreams
6. The Island
7. The Summer Knows
8. How Do You Keep The Music Playing?
9. After The Rain
10. A Piece Of Sky

a really cute video someone made to "Something New In My Life" as a tribute to Barbra's son, Jason Gould <3

"Meat Man" The Musical

Website: http://www.reel9productions.com/blog/2011/08/meat-man-the-musical-its-finally-here/#comments


Venue
Mainstage at the Adrienne
2030 Sansom Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103

Performances
Tue, Sep 6, 10pm
Mainstage at the Adrienne
Sat, Sep 10, 3pm
Mainstage at the Adrienne
Sun, Sep 11, 10pm
Mainstage at the Adrienne
Tue, Sep 13, 10pm
Mainstage at the Adrienne

Synopsis:

The great meat-eating town of Unwillington prides itself on it’s annual celebration of meat: The Carnivore’s Carnival. The local door-to-door meat salesman, Meat Man, is the town’s great pride and joy. Violent Violet, a sassy punk rocker, is the leader of the vegan activist party and she is the first to move in to the meat-centric neighborhood to upset the balance. The townspeople are outraged, but Meat Man believes he can sway her from her vegan ways. What he encounters is unlike anything he has ever experienced before, including Sheena, who is hell bent on destroying him in order to win over Violent Violet’s heart.

The musical numbers are what we are most excited about! The genres range from Broadway musical, doo wop, rock, punk, love ballads, and even hip hop! There is definitely something for everyone in all 12 numbers! We have a ton of surprises lined up, especially with costumes! We even have audience participation planned throughout the show.

One more thing that people should know is that we have been shooting Meat Man as a film! We have been filming for well over a month and are proud to be releasing the trailer! It is turning out really great, and we are so excited that this is all coming together so well! We have an amazing and dedicated cast that deserve a lot of recognition.


Review:

I saw "Meat Man" yesterday with some very dear friends. I brought along Andrew, Paul, Toni, and met up with the "Meat Man"s parents, Donna and Dennis Melton <3. Michael Melton, my very good and talented friend is playing the title role and he's positively brilliant in it! The rest of the cast was superb as well! The show far exceeded my expectations. Also, as someone who's pretty much anti-vegan/vegetarian, I really appreciated the comment it made on the subject. The writing was absolutely inspired! It was witty, clever, smart, and above all, FUN! I've rarely had such a good time in the theatre and I left feeling great, which is the mark of a truly well constructed production! Everyone there enjoyed it. In fact, the few performances there are have been selling out, so if you are planning to see it, I suggest pre-ordering your tickets which are only $12. The audience was just as great as the performance which is always lots of fun! Everyone was really into it! All in all, great show, marvelous cast, a must-see for anyone who's looking to have a good time!

"Meat Man" is also a film. They've been working very hard on it for some time now and it's highly anticipated by a lot of people! There was a screening of the trailer before the performance yesterday afternoon and it looks incredible! It premiers September 18th. I'll post more details when I get them. If you can't make it to the show, see the movie! I'm really interested to see how it transfers to film and since it's the same company, I'm sure it'll keep the original fun spirit of the production. So, in conclusion, hats off to the cast and crew! It's easy to see a lot of effort, work, and planning went into this show and a special shout out to my friend, Michael, who knocks everything he does out of the park! A brilliant talent by anyone's standards! <3

Barbra: "A Happening At Starbucks"

Barbra's new album, "What Matters Most" is being released on August 23rd. Needless to say, I'm ecstatic about it! The album is a collection of songs by Marilyn & Alan Bergman who've written countless songs, shows, and concerts for Barbra. She's recorded over fifty of their songs including "The Way We Were", the score of "Yentl", and a song both Andrew and I love, "What are you Doing The Rest Of Your Life", Which I was lucky enough to see her sing live (to perfection) in 2006 The Bergmans are two of my favorite composers and they also wrote one of my all-time favorite songs called "Fifty Percent" from the musical "Ballroom" which any actor or actress in their right mind would kill to be able to perform! The new cd is a compilation of songs she's never sung before and is also being released as a two disc set with a second disc of some of her favorite (previously released) numbers she's done by Alan & Marilyn. You can listen to some of them on Youtube. So far my favorite is "That Face". It makes me think of Andrew. Such a cute song! I can't wait to hear the rest of the album!

So, once again, Barbra has pulled a genius trick out of her fabulous hat! A few months ago, she performed a charity concert gala for the MusiCares foundation in which she sang some of her hits along with a few songs from the new album. From August 23rd to the 30th, the concert will be streaming on Starbucks' wi-fi network! You can go to any Starbucks with your laptop or internet capable phone to watch it. I think it's a great promotional idea! And considering I'm a bit of a Starbucks junkie, it's perfect for me! I'm going on the 23rd with my dear friend and fellow Babs devotee, My own Barbara, Barb Angelini <3 and naturally, buying the album that day as well. I'm sure I'll be seeing it a few more times since I'm in Starbucks all the time anyway and it's my duty as a die-hard Barbra fan! I only hope that they eventually release it on DVD! Any live performance of Streisand's is historic and should be recorded and treasured. She's the number one best selling female recording artist of all time and in my opinion the best singer we have living today. Even Judy was a huge fan of hers! So, if you love Babs, stop into Starbucks and to all my friends, if you want to come see it with me that week, let me know! :)

Here's the track listing for the new CD:

Disc: 1
1. The Windmills Of Your Mind
2. Something New In My Life
3. Solitary Moon
4. Nice n Easy
5. Alone In The World
6. So Many Stars
7. The Same Hello, The Same Goodbye
8. That Face
9. I ll Never Say Goodbye
10. What Matters Most
Disc: 2
1. The Way We Were
2. What Are You Doing The Rest Of Your Life?
3. You Don’t Bring Me Flowers
4. Papa, Can You Hear Me?
5. Pieces Of Dreams
6. The Island
7. The Summer Knows
8. How Do You Keep The Music Playing?
9. After The Rain
10. A Piece Of Sky

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GJYe98lGfT0

"It Gets Better"

I've written about the abundance of bullying related tragedies before, but it's still weighing heavy on my heart. So, instead of rehashing all of that, I decided to join the ranks of the millions of people who have made videos in hope of helping someone out there. I'll let them speak for themselves:

Listen to this. Truer words were never spoken:

Joan Rivers

She's currently starring in not one but TWO reality shows, "Joan & Melissa: Joan Knows Best?" and "How'd You Get So Rich?", which are both, hilarious. She still does "The Fashion Police" every week, she still designs jewelry and clothes and makes regular appearances on QVC to sell it. I have a few, and not only are they beautiful, but they are extremely well made. A Joan Rivers jewelry piece is one that'll last forever.

I've always been in awe of people who are so passionate about what they do that they never stop. Joan literally works 24 hours a day. As she says, "There are no hours in the business". The only other woman I can think of who's under the pressure and work load of Joan is Anna Wintour, another lady I adore and admire. These women made some significant cracks in that glass ceiling and they are STILL opening doors, not just for women but for all of us! They've paved the way for so much. It's hard to imagine we'd have a Kathy Griffin if it wasn't for Joan Rivers. So, as easy as it is to make fun of and dismiss these "Divas" (a word I'm really starting to hate which is never used properly), it's just as easy to take a second to wonder why they're still here and if you could do what they do and even half as well. Just to name a few of Joan's accomplishments, she was the first and LAST woman to have her own late night talk show, she pretty much invented the red carpet. NO ONE watched before Joan. She m ade it okay for women to talk about things that were taboo, like plastic surgery, and her no nonsense attitude makes her attractive because she tells it like it is; but at the same time, she still has a soft and sensitive side like every comedienne. As a performer myself, I can tell you, it's much harder to be funny than serious, and she is ALWAYS funny! She's a true star and deserves whatever praise she gets. I'm so glad her career is at a high point right now because no one deserves it more! So, to Joan I say, YOU GO GIRL!

Two nights ago, I attended the world premiere of "In a Daughter's Eyes", a the riveting story of two women. One, a black woman, who's father is a former black panther and resides in prison to this day. He was accused of killing a cop back in the 1980's. The story takes place in Rahema Salaam's office. She's the daughter of the man in prison. The story's plot is basically Rahema trying to prove her father's innocence with the help of Kathryn Tinney, the daughter of the officer who was killed. The dynamic between these two women hooks you from beginning to end. There aren't many two women shows that can hold an audience for two hours just by themselves. During the course of the show, you experience their ups and downs, triumphs and tragedies and the idea that it's based on fact makes it that much more interesting to watch. I attended with my friend, Erica, who always takes me along when she gets press passes for these things. Her blurb about it is below this post. It's running until June 19th and if you're looking for a good night of really fascinating theatre and/or a good human story with a little dark comedy mixed in, I'd strongly recommend "In a Daughter's Eyes".

Erica Minutella:
http://www.uwishunu.com/2011/06/interact-theatre-company-presents-in-a-daughters-eyes-based-on-a-philadelphia-story-on-stage-through-june-19/


In a Daughter’s Eyes
When: Now–June 19
Where: Adrienne Theater, 2030 Sansom Street
Cost: Tickets range from $18-$32

"Saturn Returns" a play by Noah Haidle

Tonight, I was invited to the theater by my dear friend, Erica Minutella, who writes for Philly.com. Her review should pop up online in a day or two. We had press tickets, but unfortunately, they didn't have reserved press seating! Anyway, the play, took place in a renovated "theater" in a Church, which made both of us a bit skeptical.

I must say I was impressed with the concept of the story. The cast consisted of 4 people, three of them being the main character, a man at different stages in his life, and the other a woman playing the triple role of wife, daughter, and nurse/caretaker.

The story was well constructed. There were a few monologues and scenes that were completely unnecessary, but the message was abundantly clear. This was a story about an insufferable man who's been set in his ways all his life and now he's old, alone, and terribly, terribly lonely. The acting wasn't the best I've ever seen, but it wasn't bad either. Speaking of which, the director and producer made a speech before the show announcing that their actors get health care and all these great benefits... I was livid! They're performing in a church! I've never been treated that well in the theatre or paid that well!

At any rate, we had an enjoyable evening and despite the few short comings, I'd recommend seeing it if you're looking for something to do and/or enjoy live theatre. Again, the story and it's construction really interested me, though some of the writing could have been tweaked a bit. I also appreciated the way the story went back and forth in time through the memories of the heroine.

It's presented by Theatre Exile in the second building of the church on 2nd and Market. It's running until March 22.

"Furious Love" by Sam Kashner & Nancy Schoenberger

As most of you know, I've been a huge Elizabeth Taylor fan all of my life. I've read a few books chronicling her life including, "Elizabeth" and "My Love Affair With Jewelry". This book was published a few months prior to Elizabeth's death and focuses on her relationship with Richard Burton.

I found it compelling and fascinating. The whole "Liz & Dick" scandal was handled, I thought with great respect and the authors managed to make this more than just another tell all piece of trash. I understand it was written with the cooperation of Elizabeth herself, which is a good sign. She's always been very honest and candid about her personal relationships (particularly with Burton, who I believe was the true love of her life).

The book goes into great detail about what it was like to be the super stars they became. No celebrity or celebrity couple can compare to what these two went through together. Things are so sterilized today. Remember, this all took place at a time when scandal wasn't exactly accepted by the public. These were two people who literally had to live in a bubble for their entire married (and unmarried) life. They fell in love in Rome on the set of "Cleopatra" and as in all great love stories, didn't seem to like each other very much. Obviously, that quickly changed. At the time, they were both also married to other people. Elizabeth to Eddie Fisher whom she "stole" from Debbie Reynolds and Richard to Sybil Burton, who, even through his well known philandering, he refused to divorce.

This is a love story greater than any work of fiction. The sex, the passion, the jewelry... it's all here in one of the most enjoyable books I've ever read. Not for a moment does it drag. These two were the first real Hollywood couple born from scandal and then transformed into American royalty. Simply put, it's one of the best biographies I've ever read.

"I'm Over All That" By Shirley MaClaine

I've been reading Shirley's books for years. This newest one is probably one of her best! She tackles every subject with her own brand of wit which makes the book impossible to put down. She's always been extremely honest and candid and this newest book is no exception. She touches on everything from past lives to fame to sex to close mindedness. She's brave, outspoken, and she keeps it very real, which is what I've always admired about her as a person, not to mention her incredible talent as an actress. Even after reading so many of her books and going beyond those to research and study what she writes about, I still found myself learning more and becoming even more fascinated with these subjects, like UFOs and reincarnation. Shirley MaClaine is an extremely smart woman who knows there's always more to learn and that's what I admire about her. Life is merely a learning experience and we never stop learning (if we allow ourselves and open ourselves up to it). All in all, it's a fabulous book by a fabulous woman and I would recommend it to anyone with an open mind and an eagerness to learn.

My Belief System...yes, I do have one...

This entry, I'm sure will cause a bit of controversy if anyone actually reads it, but then, I can't make it to the powder room and back without causing some kind of controversy, so, who cares.

Several people seem to be under the impression that I don't believe in a God or a higher power and so on and so forth... My question is, why? I make a joke here and there and enjoy pretty things so this makes me an atheist of some kind? I have a lot of beliefs. Some conventional, some not so conventional (for America). For starters, my number one belief is that I don't believe in telling others what they're SUPPOSED to believe in and what's "right" and "wrong". This rule, and it's gone so far as to be scientifically proven, is what you send out, you get back (do unto others as you would have them do unto you). Karma plays a big part in our lives weather you chose to believe it or not. It's not up to us.

Now, God. Do I believe in God? Yes. Do I pray? More than anyone would imagine. Do I flaunt it and put down others who don't or even talk about it? No. It's very personal to me. There is definitely some form of higher being who's content to let the inmates run the asylum and he or she intervenes when necessary.

Now, here's the part where people seem to just roll their eyes...past lives/future lives and lifetimes. Like I said, I do believe in God and I don't think he'd create us, and waste us after a little time on Earth. I truly believe the soul never dies. Does it arrive at a pearly gate with angels and clouds? I don't know. None of this can be proven. It doesn't have to be, at least not for me. We live in such a scientific society that everything has to be physically proven or it's nonsense. Now, two thirds of the world believes in reincarnation,, so when are we going to at least open our minds to it?

My belief is that after we go, we go on to the higher for of learning. When we decide it's time to return to the schoolroom (Earth, or maybe another Planet that we haven't discovered yet, which is why our interests may be so peaked in far off planets), we do. The soul never dies and it continues it's journey. Now, I don't know if it comes to an end at some point or if it's infinite. But the way I think we're all connected is by this one God who created and connected us all. We meet people, smell things, see things we recognize that can't possibly be from this lifetime. So, if we'd open up our minds and pay attention to our guts, we may actually remember.

Case in point, Andrew managed to track down a bottle of Ma Griffe perfume for me (Judy's perfume). I've never smelled it in my life and have been trying to find it for years. The moment I smelled it, it gave me chills. I know this smell. I don't know where or when I've smelled it before, but it's a very distinct smell and I know it well. I'm still trying to think of how I can possibly remember it because nothing smells like it that I've smelled in this lifetime. Could it be some connection between me and Judy? Or even someone else who wore it? It's been around since 1946.

My point is, we're never really finished and I'm going to try not to let the death of someone I admire or love get to me so much because they're not gone, they're learning and living in another reality perhaps not as far from ours as we think.

The loss of two violet eyes and a piece of my heart...

Monday night I felt sick to my stomach. Very sick. It was sort of a nervous flew-like feeling. So I put myself to bed and didn’t wake up for nearly 25 hours. I missed all of Tuesday. I was shocked when I saw that an entire day had gone by. It was 3 a.m. “Who’s Afraid Of Virginia Woolf” was playing on repeat on the dvd player, paused on my computer was “Divorce His, Divorce Hers”, and before I went to sleep I had just finished a chapter of “Furious Love: The Story of Elizabeth Taylor & Richard Burton”.

I watched some more of Elizabeth (I’ve been on a real Elizabeth Taylor Bender lately). And then around 8 am, I talked to my friend, Ack who had just gotten into work. The other line rang and it was Eric, who I haven’t really spoken to in months. I was curious, but I had a funny feeling too. When I clicked over, the first thing out of his mouth was, “Have you seen the news?”. I just knew. And then he told me that Elizabeth was dead. My gut reaction was to say, “Are you sure?”. I double, triple, quadruple checked... it was true. I immediately started crying. I felt as though I’d lost a family member, a mother figure, a friend...

Now, to some people, I’m sure this sounds melodramatic and silly and all day I’ve been accused of being just that. But anyone who really knows me knows why this hit me the way it did.

It’s taken me all day to gather my thoughts and I’ve gone through so many emotions today just thinking about this woman and all the lessons I’ve learned from her throughout my life. This post isn’t yet another “Greatest Hits” post. I don’t want to talk about her men, her jewels, her films...etc... I want to talk about how one figure can effect a person’s life so profoundly even though you’ve never met them.

Growing up, I always say, I was raised by Turner Classic Movies. I made it my business to read as many books, watch as many documentaries, and suck up as much knowledge as I could about old Hollywood and the people in it. Judy, Bette Davis, and Elizabeth Taylor were just three of the women I wanted to know the most about and who I learned the most from.

Elizabeth. NOT Liz! She hated being called Liz ever since she was a child. She was a force of nature, a survivor, an incredibly human superhuman. She’s been revived from death more times than even I know off hand, which is why I didn’t want to believe this was it. She’s survived great heartbreak, lifelong back problems, broken bones, hip replacements, brain cancer, skin cancer, and a multitude of other diseases and ailments in her 79 years. Now, you say to yourself, “Well, 79...she lived a long life”... WHAT a life she packed into those years! More than most people can fit into a hundred!

Elizabeth Taylor taught me the importance of being an individual. She was a woman who knew what she wanted and how to get it and she didn’t let anything get in her way. She was subjected to great public scrutiny for her colorful personal life which she lived to HER standards. No one else’s. That is exactly how I’ve always chosen to live my own life. She was truly fearless. She loved hard and often and was not ashamed of it. Perhaps, that’s the most important lesson she passed on to me. NEVER be ashamed to love. Life is too short and hate accomplishes nothing. If you truly love someone, embrace it. Embrace them and let them know it.

She was beautiful, decadent, glamorous, and larger than life. Yet talk to anyone who knew her and they’ll tell you she was the most approachable, loving, loyal, down to earth person in the world. She was literally the first celebrity to speak out about HIV/AIDS research, again disregarding warnings of even her lifelong friends “not to get involved”. She opened so many doors for America that we do things because of her we don’t even realize. She changed the way movies were made, she changed the way scandals and press are presented, she was a woman of a lot firsts. No matter what she went through, though, she was never bitter and always picked herself up and dusted herself off. Her will was so strong, that I think she fought her way back from death all those times because she knew it wasn’t her time. So, if she allowed herself to go this time, she must’ve known it was her time.

To us, the “misfits” of the world, Elizabeth Taylor is a hero. She embraced anyone she thought needed her, again, with no apology. Like Judy, I’ll always carry Elizabeth in my heart and mind and follow her lead when I find myself in a hopeless situation. The world is a better place for having had her in it.

Rest in Peace, Elizabeth. No words can truly reveal the appreciation I have for your presence on Earth. <3

An Andrew Ryan Schmidt Original! :)

Andrew has wanted to do a portrait of me of me for a long time. This post is really for his reference. He saw the "Star Is Born" poster where Judy has her hands positioned on the sides of her face like a camera (which has become my signature pose) and he's going to recreate it with me wearing my favorite of all Judy's clothes, the gold and green beaded paisley suite designed by Travia for "Valley Of The Dolls", which Judy took when she was released from the picture and wore on stage at the Palace in 1967 as well as on tour through most of 67 and 68... so here are some pictures of the outfit and the pose as well as some costume test footage. I'm SO excited about this! And incredibly proud <3

"Twenties Girl"

As I mentioned in a previous post, I'm a HUGE fan of Sophie Kinsella (author of the Shopaholic series). I've read every one of her books and even though this review is a little late, since I read this one last year when it first came out, I have to say of all her "stand alone" novels, this was by far my favorite. She always writes about the modern, chic, single career girl, but this one has a little twist in that she delves into the supernatural, but the way she does it with her signature wit and charm makes it all so completely believable. I also really appreciated the attention to detail. She clearly did her research on the twenties for this book. From what they wore to brands and types of makeup they used and how they did things back then. Sadie (the ghost) describes things not like a grandmother, but like a hip, young fresh girl...who just happens to live in the 1920's. Even if you have no plans to get sucked into reading the Shopaholic series and just want to give something by Sophie Kinsella a try, this is the one to pick up! It's a great read which you will FLY through! Putting it down is pretty impossible. Below is the plot synopsis from Barnes & Noble.com:

Lara Lington has always had an overactive imagination, but suddenly that imagination seems to be in overdrive. Normal professional twenty-something young women don t get visited by ghosts. Or do they?

When the spirit of Lara s great-aunt Sadie a feisty, demanding girl with firm ideas about fashion, love, and the right way to dance mysteriously appears, she has one last request: Lara must find a missing necklace that had been in Sadie s possession for more than seventy-five years, and Sadie cannot rest without it. Lara, on the other hand, has a number of ongoing distractions. Her best friend and business partner has run off to Goa, her start-up company is floundering, and she s just been dumped by the perfect man.

Sadie, however, could care less.

Lara and Sadie make a hilarious sparring duo, and at first it seems as though they have nothing in common. But as the mission to find Sadie s necklace leads to...

The Chapter House (Coffee Shop)

I'm updating right now from The Chapter House, which is a coffee shop on 9th & Bainbridge. Bobby and I were going to go to my favorite coffee shop, La Colombe, but since they close so early, he suggested this place. I have a feeling I'm going to become a regular here! The staff is very friendly, my two cappuccinos were DELICIOUS and made just right and the atmosphere is great! It's has sort of an old/kitchie feeling. It's one of those great little coffee shops that doesn't try to be anything it's not. The prices are quite reasonable too. Not as cheap as La Colombe, but not expensive at all There's also tons of seating and the seats are very comfortable. We've been here for about two hours. Bobby's friend, Michelle, recently joined us and the three of us are just reading. It's a very nice relaxing atmosphere. I must have passed this place a million times and never noticed it! I'm glad Bobby introduced me to it! I'm always on the hunt for new places to frequent...especially places where I can get a decent cup of coffee, which, believe it or not, is not an easy task in this city. I'm very glad I stumbled upon this place! :)

"There's No Business Like Show Business!"

Recently, I've been involved in a multitude of projects. Movies, shows, cabarets... I have to say, I haven't worked this hard in quite sometime, but I'm also having the time of my life! With each thing I do, I'm meeting more and more incredibly talented and fascinating people! For the first time, I can honestly say, I feel as though I'm in my element and doing what I should be doing. Once a performer, always a performer, I guess. And this recent burst of performance activity is long overdue! So, here's just an update on projects I've done and things that are coming up:

"Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas"

This was a benefit Cabaret for my little brother, Joey, who was diagnosed with bone cancer last February. After enduring chemo, radiation, and surgery, he's now in remission. Hopefully, he'll be okay. This show was very stressful to put together since there wasn't a lot of rehearsal time and for some other reasons there really aren't any reason to go into. However, Joey enjoyed it and we raised some money for his foundation, so it was definitely worth it! Not to mention, we all had a marvelous time doing it! It touched me deeply that so many people came out to perform for Joey's cause and also that so many people came out to see the show, support it, and donate money to the charity, "Being Brave For Joey". Another important thing I should mention about this is that I met a fellow who is now one of my closest friends, Michael Melton. He's a brilliant composer and wrote a melody which me, him, and Angelina, turned i not a Christmas song for Joey called "Angel For Christmas". It was a spectacular night! A big highlight for me was the fact that Andrew and Matthew surprised me by coming to see it! Poodle also showed up and took some incredible pictures which can be seen on facebook. Everyone who was there enjoyed themselves, and you could actually feel the warmth in the room! :) So, I want to say a big thank you to everyone who was there supporting my little brother! He's the bravest kid I've ever known! <3

"Fat as I Am"

Joey

y

"Baby It's Cold Outside"

Singing with ALL of my brothers for the Finale <3

With Angelina and Michael (aka: Pretty Eyes) singing "A gel For Christmas"

Mr. Michael Melton <3

"The Christmas Spoiled":

This was a short film I completed between Christmas and New Years. It was written, produced, and directed by my cousin, Nick Gregorio, who has been in California for the last few years pursuing his own show business ambitions...and rather successfully too! He has a great vision and a unique talent. He called me and asked if I'd be interested in doing a project with him and even though I was in rehearsals for another film at the time, as soon as I read the script, I immediately said yes! I thought the story was adorable and I'm also pretty proud of the way it turned out. My makeup was SO intense! It took quite some time to apply (and take off) but once again, the results were worth it! Here's the link to the film. Let me know what you think!

http://vimeo.com/18578228

"The Rehearsal"

This is a project I've been attached to for some time. It's being directed by my friend, Lauren, and was written by her now ex-boyfriend, Michael. They're both very talented, and again, have an incredible vision. The basic plot of the story for this film is that a group of performers are putting on a production of "La Boheme" which is in trouble. Two days before opening night, a new director is brought in to help salvage it. It's so bad, however, that the ghost of Puccini comes back from the grave with an army of zombies threatening to take the performers' voices unless they can turn out a decent production. It's actually very interesting and stylized. And we filmed for a week in College Town, PA (during which I became incredibly ill) but we still have more work to do on it. I'm guessing all that depends on when we can get the space again. Now, on this film, I really made some wonderful new friends! The cast were all so supportive of one another and it truly was a family atmosphere! Despite being horribly sick, I had the time of my life! My makeup and wardrobe were incredible and I'm really looking forward to the finished product! "The Rehearsal" will be a shorter film and from it, I believe we're trying to garner enough funds to do a full-length feature film.

Makeup/Wardrobe reference shot

Taking a break in the Actors' Green Room

Lauren, the director, Eve, the Cinematographer, and the A.D. discussing a shot.

On February 26th, I'll be hosting a Burlesque show at Wine-O bar and Grill with Michael as my accompanist/ sidekick. I'll post more information about that later.

But that's about all as far as my showbusiness career goes for right now. I'm extremely proud of the work I've been doing and I really hope it pays off. I want to thank all the wonderful people who've made it possible for me to even be doing all of this. I have that incredible feeling of hope and optimism again that I used to have and I'm grateful for it every day :)