JANUARY/FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015 YOUR INSIDE LOOK AT THE AMERICAN THEATRE and THE CHARLES H. TAYLOR ARTS CENTER

Company Stefanie Batten Bland Dance Peter Yarrow January 17, 8pm March 15, 2:30pm

WELLINGTON INTERNATIONAL UKULELE ORCHESTRA | PENINSULA GLASS GUILD | INTERNATIONAL GUITARS | A LIFE IN THE THEATRE | ARLO GUTHRIE | ARTISTS WHO TEACH | ALL THE WAY LIVE! | FIRST SUNDAYS 2 DIVERSIONS April/May/June 2014 FROM THE DIRECTOR Bring the Fun in 2015

2014 was a banner year for Hampton Arts! We achieved I celebrate the great work Levia Mason Stovall, Armstrong notable increases in overall attendance at both The American Elementary principal, her fellow administrators and teachers do Theatre and The Charles H. Taylor Arts Center. Our number of every day to make the arts an integral part of our children’s lives. sold-out performances has increased, as have our art sales. More I want to give a special shout-out to Nancy Eason, a great friend importantly, our patrons tell us that they are having fun at our of Hampton Arts. Nancy is a first-grade teacher at Armstrong performances, events, exhibitions, and classes. Making a positive who chairs the school’s arts leadership team. She also heads up community impact through the arts is not only our mission, I’ve the Hampton Commission on the Arts and works closely with noticed the concept has been making the local news recently. us at Hampton Arts. Working together, the team at Armstrong Back in October 2014, Hampton Mayor, George Wallace, and Elementary certainly ‘brings the fun’ in a very artful way. We are Vice-Mayor, Linda Curtis, co-authored an article in The Daily so proud of you! Press, seeking ideas and strategies to help make our community In 2015, Hampton Arts will take up the mayor and vice-mayor’s more livable. As they referenced in their piece, research shows that challenge to find new, creative and inventive opportunities to citizens make true emotional connections with cities when they connect the arts to this community. Our upcoming schedule of experience comfort, beauty, art and fun. Essentially, they want performances, events, art exhibitions and classes are a good start, to challenge creative individuals throughout our community to but there is so much more to come! ‘bring the fun’ in 2015. On behalf of the All around us, there are shining examples of how the arts are Hampton Arts team, thank making a difference in our community. Recently, Hampton’s you for making our 2014 so Armstrong Elementary was honored as a 2014 National Blue successful. I look forward to Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education as an becoming co-creators with “exemplary high performing school.” The award was earned, you as we ‘bring the fun’ to in part, because of the school’s Arts Integration program, 2015 and beyond. incorporating music, visual arts, drama and dance into the four I wish you a joyous, core subject areas. Armstrong was the only Peninsula school to prosperous and art-filled receive this honor and recognition. New Year.

Joe Tsao, Director

OUR MISSION To advance the arts and enhance the quality of life for all Hampton Roads residents and visitors by: – Educating and inspiring teachers, students and life- long learners to embrace the arts through exhibition, workshop and educational study, volunteerism and community outreach. – Providing opportunities for Hampton Roads artists to showcase and develop performing, visual and educational T.S. Abbott arts in both traditional and non-traditional formats. End of Day, Jarvis Creek, Hilton Head – Presenting unique, world-class caliber arts that appeal to a photograph diverse citizenry, promoting a deeper cultural awareness. see article on page 14

DIVERSIONS April/May/June 2014 HamptonArts.net DIVERSIONS 1

InJANUARY/FEBRUARY/MARCH This Issue 2015

1 From the Director — Joe Tsao 27 Peter Yarrow: An Afternoon of Conversation & Song — Experience the gentle soul, wry humor and extraordinary 3 My View from the Wings — Artistic Director Jeff Stern effect of Peter’s “music of conscience” IN THE GALLERIES 31 Mad River Theatre Works in Freedom Bound — The most important incident in the history of the Underground Peninsula Glass Guild 27th Annual Juried Exhibition 10 Railroad is told in this original play — Showcasing the many forms of glass 11 Fluid Variations: Recent Works in Glass by Clay LIGHTHOUSE SERIES McGlamory — 2013’s First Place winner presents his one- 30 All the Way LIVE! Series person exhibition 30 First Sunday Series 14 Hampton Arts League Open Members Exhibition — A wide variety of artwork in all media and styles 31 The Fuzz Band Chronicles — the final concert in the Veer Music Award winner concert series 28 Artists Who Teach Juried Exhibition — Over 115 works of art presented by artists who teach in the Peninsula’s 34 Phoebus Film Club Series colleges and schools 38 2014 Emerging Artist Winner Logan Layman in 29 Mary Lee Ruff: A Love of Drawing — Graphite Concert — Winner of the Sea Level Singer/Songwriter’s drawings by the First Place winner of 2014’s Artists Who Teach Emerging Artist Contest, Logan, “Blues Kid of the Year”, headlines her own concert 36 Poetry Inspired by Art 38 The Blues is Still Good News Benefit Concert — PERFORMANCES Extraordinary local musical talent perform to benefit the 2015 Fernando Jones Blues Camp in Hampton 5 “Perfessor” Bill: Live Piano Accompaniment to Classic Silent Films — An afternoon of music, comedy and fun OUR REGULAR 7 Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra — 32 Encore — A look at the recent events at The American Theatre Charming Kiwi humor mixed with musicality, outrageous costumes and fabulous voices 33 Volunteer Spotlight — featuring intern Erin Waynick 9 Company Stefanie Batten Bland Dance — Prize- 37 Bravo — Images from the Small Works 2014 Reception winning contemporary dance 40 Winter Classes — register for classes for adults and children 13 Celtic Fiddle Festival — Three sensational fiddlers and one acclaimed guitarist present an evening of dazzling energy, subtle grace and spontaneous humor 17 The International Guitar Night — Four amazing acoustic guitarists play solos, duets and quartets of original contemporary music 19 Walnut Street Theatre presents A Life in the Theatre — A wonderful play for everyone who loves the stage 21 Arlo Guthrie “Alice’s Restaurant” 50th Anniversary — Arlo’s songs “curated” with a special multi-media presentation 22 Danú — the 20th anniversary tour of Ireland’s acclaimed ensemble 25 Dana Leong Trio — Amazing fusion of jazz, classical and pop by the “hi-def Yo-Yo Ma”

Danú, page 22 2 DIVERSIONS January/February/March 2015 THE HAMPTON ARTS FOUNDATION JOE TSAO, DIRECTOR NANCY LAWSON ALLEN, PRESIDENT Terri Vander Vennet Duncan Garnett, Vice President Assistant Director (Finance Kenneth M. Krakaur, Treasurer and Administration) Nancy Adams My View Kevin Spence Ann Marie Batten Assistant Director Margaret Blake (Operations and Events) Cindy Cutler Jeff Stern Dr. Charrita Danley from the Wings Artistic Director Nancy Eason James Warwick Jones Dr. Robert E. Howard BY THE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR Gallery Manager Steve Hussell Mary Blackwell Bud Longo Business Manager Roxanne Lopez-Brown That was fast. Bessie Crotts The Hon. John Miller The old adage is true — time really does fly when you are having Box Office Manager The Hon. Ross A. Mugler fun. Where did the year go, anyway? I still have sand in my car from Angela McPherson Donna Palmer Marketing Manager Debbie Scott summer trips to the beach and now I find myself spinning in the annual Sandra Sanders The Hon. Joseph H. Spencer, II vortex of chaotic holiday magic. Typically, I like to take a few moments Changeover & Ann Templeman to reflect on the year gone by, and there is much in 2014 to reflect upon. Housekeeping Manager Jim Thompson This time, however, I’m all about what’s ahead. 2015, here we come! Susan Van Sloten HAMPTON COMMISSION Joe Tsao In the first three months of the year, Hampton Arts will welcome: ON THE ARTS DIVERSIONS a one-of-a-kind ukulele orchestra from New Zealand, a nationally NANCY EASON, CHAIRPERSON A QUARTERLY PUBLICATION acclaimed choreographer and her dance company, an international Patrice Billingsly Enjoyed by more than 60,000 readers roster of world-class guitarists, and a founding member of the iconic Lynda Burke per issue. The Hon. Linda Curtis DESIGNED BY folk super-group, Peter, Paul and Mary. We’ll also celebrate a couple James Dees Mellen Street Creative of anniversaries with artist who have become more like family to Joshua Head PRINTED BY Hampton Arts: Arlo Guthrie returns to celebrate 50 years of his hit Carter Printing The Hon. Billy Hobbs song, Alice’s Restaurant Masacree with a concert ‘party’ you won’t Gaylene Kanoyton Jackie Merritt want to miss; and we’ll toast the mesmerizing Celtic musicians of Buena Reese ADVERTISING Danú as their concert celebrates 20 years of musical bliss. And that’s Deborah Reese We offer many effective solutions just a snippet of what’s to come at The American Theatre, the coming to promote your business or Gail Rehmert year is equally exciting in our galleries, as well. Olga Ruffin events. For information on sponsorship opportunities, The Charles H. Taylor Arts Center rings in the New Year with THE CHARLES H. TAYLOR including advertising in our ARTS CENTER printed publications and online The Peninsula Glass Guild 27th Annual Juried Exhibition, our BOARD OF TRUSTEES platforms, contact Stephanie most talked-about annual offering. Next, our talented and dedicated Morris, [email protected], DEBBIE SCOTT, PRESIDENT Hampton Arts League (HAL) members return to show off their 757-315-4019. Richard M. Bagley, Jr. creative skills in their 2015 Open Members Exhibition. The HAL Pearl Braxton The Hon. Douglas E. Miller exhibition gives way to the Artists Who Teach Juried Exhibition, Dr. Linda Shifflette featuring the artwork of those who use their talents to help many of The Hon. Christopher W. Hutton our region’s students illuminate their own creative paths. I hope you’ll spend a few minutes reading through the full complement of our upcoming events, classes, and programs — I’m confident you’ll find the perfect opportunity to enjoy your 2015 with us. On behalf of the entire Hampton Arts team, I wish you a positive, inspiring, and robust 2015. See you soon!

ON THE COVER: Company Stefanie Batten Bland Dance P.S., I have been asked by many of you why my letter was not in the last See story p. 9 issue of Diversions. We simply had too much great art content (and a small snafu in our design layout), so I decided to delete my letter rather than Peter Yarrow reduce or eliminate any of our program listings. I’ll always put the arts first, See story p. 27 but should I need to remove my letter again I’ll make sure you know why.

HamptonArts.net DIVERSIONS 3 4 DIVERSIONS January/February/March 2015 I always loved silent movies. I was not a specialist, but I loved them. And when I started directing, I became really fascinated by the format — how it works, the device of the silent movie. It’s not the same form of expression as a talkie. The lack of sounds makes you participate in the storytelling.

— MICHEL HAZANAVICIUS, DIRECTOR OF THE ARTIST

‘Perfessor’ Bill Live Piano Accompaniment Every ‘Perfessor’ Bill show features classic to Classic Silent Films silent movie shorts by silent legends such as Charles Chaplin, Harold Lloyd and Buster Keaton, as well as a section devoted to ragtime performances and audience sing- After a memorable show in November, we welcome ‘Perfessor’ alongs. Perfect for all ages and a great re-introduction to the magic Bill back to our Steinway piano for another afternoon of music, of silent film! Mark your calendars now for the next ‘Perfessor Bill’ classic silent comedy and fun. At the keyboard Bill improvises performance on January 11, 2015. the score for each great silent movie classic, on the fly. He Sunday, January 11, 2:30pm conjures music with an appropriate mood, or with tempos that $20 / $15 comment waggishly on the scenes, accentuating hairpin plot twists to play along. It would have been more logical if Classic silent shorts selected for Bill’s final appearance: silent pictures had grown out of the talkies The Boat — Buster Keaton Mud and Sand — Stan Laurel instead of the other way around. Chasing Choo Choos — Monty Banks — MARY PICKFORD

HamptonArts.net DIVERSIONS 5 6 DIVERSIONS January/February/March 2015 “New Zealand’s hottest music/comedy ensemble”

— CHRISTCHURCH ARTS FESTIVAL

Renowned for their winning combination of charming Kiwi humor, their disarmingly small ukuleles, and sublime musicality, the Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra is one of the world’s great modern ukulele acts. The wildly popular New Zealand ensemble, armed with high-octane ukulele solos, heavenly Wellington harmonies and outrageous costumes, create instant joy and lasting magic wherever they go. Their comedic banter is spontaneous, and when they burst into song, the sweet sounds can silence a room in a nanosecond, or bring a crowd of thousands to their feet. Delighting audiences of all ages, the orchestra’s signature sound International features many types of ukuleles, a double bass and a host of gorgeous voices performing harmonious and hilarious renditions of modern and traditional tunes. The Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra presents the ukulele as it’s never been played before, and features songs made famous by artists such as Justin Timberlake, Ukulele Dolly Parton, Elvis, The Beatles, Hall and Oates, Cyndi Lauper, Prince, Kenny Rogers and Kings of Leon, alongside tunes from the South Pacific, packaged into a spectacular, unmissable funfest. Tuesday, January 13, 7:30pm Orchestra $30 / $25 HamptonArts.net DIVERSIONS 7 8 DIVERSIONS January/February/March 2015 Company Stefanie Batten Bland Dance “Mr. Baryshnikov is drawn to Ms. Batten Bland’s flamboyance.”

— NEW YORK TIMES

Stefanie Batten Bland, recently named 2014 Joffrey Ballet “Choreographer of Color” recipient, has family roots that are a mix of Creole, African American, Native American and Scots- Irish. She has lived in three countries, speaks four languages and created her dance troupe, Company Stefanie Batten Bland, in 2008 in France so that she might better investigate the human condition and our relationship within the natural world. The troupe has performed live and via dance cinema throughout Europe, Asia, Africa and the States. Stefanie’s choreographic vision of contemporary dance — a vision recognized as a 2010 Baryshnikov Arts Center/Jerome Robbins NEW Fellow and 2011/12 Cambridge Who’s Who! of Professionals and Entrepreneurs — redefines community by illustrating the synergy that arises when interdisciplinary artists from varied backgrounds and cultures collide. Her works are based in dance, with a strong installation component which allows futuristic worlds to take place in space and time. Stefanie mixes European subtlety This performance sponsored, in part, by: and American ardor to investigate physical notions of community, adding her own layer of dance to Mary Batten and Ed Bland’s artistic legacy of music and writing. proud to support The American Theatre Saturday, January 17, 8:00pm for its work to enrich our culture, communities and lives through the arts. $30 / $25

HamptonArts.net DIVERSIONS 9 THE CHARLES H. TAYLOR ARTS CENTER 757-727-1490 IN THE GALLERIES Gallery Hours Tue–Fri: 10am–6pm, Weekends: 1pm–5pm December 13, 2014–January 25, 2015 Peninsula Glass Guild 27th Annual Juried Exhibition This 27th annual juried exhibition presents the many forms of glass created by members of the Peninsula Glass Guild. The PGG, established in 1986 to promote quality art glass in the community, is a membership organization of glass artists working in Virginia. The exhibition offers a wide range of creative processes, including blown, carved, cast, painted, flame worked, fused, leaded, neon, sandblasted and stained glass. Related events will include the juror’s lecture and a silent auction. Michael Rogers, Professor at the School for American Crafts at the Rochester Institute of Technology and an internationally known figure from the world of glass art, will select and present $3,750 in cash awards and scholarships. Michael Rogers received his M.F.A. degree in Sculpture/Glass from the University of Illinois and his M.A. and B.A. in Art from Western Illinois University. After spending 11 years in Japan where he was head of Aichi University’s Glass Department, artist Michael Rogers returned to the United States where he is now a Professor in the College of Imaging Arts and Sciences at Rochester Institute Kathy Little Peony of Technology in New York. Michael’s work can be found in the glass permanent collections of the Suntory Museum of Art in Japan, First Contemporary Glass Museum in Spain, Museo del Vidrio in Mexico, National Museum in L’viv, Ukraine, and the Corning Museum of Glass in the United States.

Colin McKinnon Blue Swirled Bowl glass Julia and Robin Rogers Dan Kistler Trillium Sunrise Sunset glass glass

10 DIVERSIONS January/February/March 2015 IN THE GALLERIES December 13, 2014–January 25, 2015 Fluid Variations: Recent Works in Glass by Clay McGlamory Clay McGlamory was the Peninsula Glass Guild 26th Annual Juried Exhibition First Place Award Winner in 2013, entitling him to this one person exhibition. McGlamory received a BFA degree from Old Dominion University in 1993 and MFA with honors from Norfolk State University and Old Dominion University (joint program) in 1999. He has taught at ODU since 2000 and at The NO 1, glass over screen print Governors School for the Arts since 1994. The artist has exhibited regionally, nationally and internationally and is represented in collections worldwide. In his artist statement McGlamory writes, “Whether employing large format printing on acrylic or glass sheets with back lighting to create installations or working more intimately with book arts on paper, I am always working to push the aesthetic envelope. Minimalism influences my use of materials and Pop Art influences my use of color. Current events are the driving idea behind my contextually loaded pieces. These works reflect my thoughts on our world, often critical and cynical. Themed trade portfolios and invitational projects often inspire these pieces. My abstract works are a continuation of my exploration into the formal qualities of color, light, shape, and pattern, which I have been building upon in my work over many years. These works are born from my interest in Op Art and my experimentation with the Self Portrait in WG VII, glass over screen print properties of kaleidoscopes, tessellations and repetition of patterned imagery. I employ new printmaking techniques to make my work more versatile and applicable to my ever-evolving artistic vision. I intentionally get on my viewers’ optic nerves; I create my pieces to evoke a physical as well as a cognitive reaction.”

Flood Zone, glass over screen print Rushing Waters, glass over screen print

HamptonArts.net DIVERSIONS 11 OEBU H S P

V I I A R GI N We choose Phoebus to shop and play. Phoebus is where we take great pride in our past and small-town values. Phoebus is where you’ll also find fresh opportunities to grow and prosper. Others already have. Now it’s your turn.

PARTNERSHIP FOR A NEW PHOEBUS • 21 E MELLEN STREET. • HAMPTON VA 23663 • WWW.PHOEBUS.INFO

12 DIVERSIONS January/February/March 2015 “Mesmerizing...Celtic Fiddle Festival ratchets up the temperature as they ricochet from magnificent Québecois tunes to Breton Celtic marches to the Irish tradition.” — THE IRISH TIMES

Celtic Fiddle Festival marks twenty years of joyful, compelling, and powerful music with their sixth recording, Live in Brittany. Described as “three sensational fiddlers from three distinct Celtic Fiddle traditions” by the Boston Herald, the group features Kevin Burke, a giant of Irish music; renowned fiddler Christian Lemaître (Kornog) from Brittany, France; and sensational young Quebecois musician André Brunet (De Temps Antan, La Bottine Souriante). Called “three of the finest folk violinists anywhere” by The Washington Post, Celtic Fiddle Festival celebrates the violin in all its globe-trotting variations. Festival Along with acclaimed guitarist Nicolas Quemener from Brittany, the quartet combines their talents, musical traditions, and spontaneous humor for an evening of dazzling energy and subtle grace. In concert, each artist plays a solo set, showcasing his individual musical styles and traditions, followed by a collaborative set featuring all four musicians. Together, they play with such relentless precision and fire that the tunes transcend all cultural and geographical barriers, leaving the audience with a memorable musical experience. Friday, January 30, 8:00pm $30 / $25

HamptonArts.net DIVERSIONS 13 THE CHARLES H. TAYLOR ARTS CENTER 757-727-1490 IN THE GALLERIES Gallery Hours Tue–Fri: 10am–6pm, Weekends: 1pm–5pm

January 31–March 15, 2015 Hampton Arts League 2015 Open Members Exhibition This annual exhibition features the art work by many of the over 350 Hampton Arts League members in all media, including drawing, painting, printmaking, photography, crafts, sculpture and watercolor. Artworks in a wide range of styles, content and sensibilities will be included. Cash awards totaling $850, including $500 First Place, $250 Second Place, and $100 Third Place, five Awards of Merit and five Honorable Mentions will be selected by artist and art educator, Clayton Singleton. Mr. Singleton received his BA degree in Fine Art from Virginia Wesleyan College in 1994 and an MA degree in education from Regent University in 2002. He has taught art at Lake Taylor High School since 2002 and as a painter he has exhibited in numerous exhibitions, won many awards and is represented in noted collections. Mr. Singleton says “In serving as juror for an art show, I consider the relationship and conversation between the work and viewer. I’m interested in visual impact, handling of the materials and Bob Carlson emotional residue. After viewing the entire show without competitive Kayak Park at York consideration, I rest my gaze. The second viewing allows me to see River State Park oil each piece alone, addressing its visual impact; does the piece speak to me? Is there something striking about the initial conversation attracting me to the work? Am I drawn to it? Does what I see cause me to linger and inquire? As I stay behind and begin to absorb the piece, I begin deconstructing the creation and asking questions relevant to the media or materials used. Considering whether the visual strength is purely technical structure or whether the artist includes characteristics generating qualities such as whimsy, melancholy or grief in his/her production, I am afforded inquiries of the artist’s goal. Has the anticipated intent been achieved? Could further consideration of the materials’ limits and abilities have strengthened the body of the particular artwork? Once leaving the conversation, I allow space for the emotional residue of the work. Does the work carry with me? Am I still considering conversations, methods and meaning of the work? When I am still affected by specific works after reviewing the remaining contributions, I return to these gems and study further; selecting pieces that combine visual impact, handling of the materials and emotional residue with a stability that creates a connection to me, the viewer.” Artists who are not currently HAL members, but would like to participate may join before or when they deliver artwork for the exhibition on Sunday, January 25 from 1:00-5:00 pm. Contact Bill Pinkham CHTAC for a prospectus and more information. Knobosity clay

14 DIVERSIONS January/February/March 2015 IN THE GALLERIES

Laura Gibbs, Aubergine, mixed media

Susan Check, Stream, watercolor Ludovic Bowe, Circus No. 2, acrylic

HamptonArts.net DIVERSIONS 15 16 DIVERSIONS January/February/March 2015 The International Guitar Night The International Guitar Night (IGN) brings together the world’s foremost acoustic guitarists to perform their latest original compositions and exchange musical ideas in a public concert setting. Each tour, IGN founder Brian Gore invites a new cast of guitar luminaries to join him for special evenings of solos, duets and quartets that highlight the virtuosity and diversity within the world of acoustic guitar. For the 2015 North American tour, Brian Gore will be joined by classical innovator and fellow Californian Andrew York, Brazilian jazz master Diego Figueiredo and Iranian-Canadian steel string prodigy Maneli Jamal. Andrew, returning to The American Theatre after last season’s sizzling show with Alex de Grassi, is a GRAMMY® winner both for his work with the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet and for his own brilliant compositions. Diego is one of the most sought-after jazz artists in the United Sates and around the world, and Maneli has played, and won guitar competitions, all over the world. We are looking forward to a particularly inventive evening of contemporary guitar music. Tuesday, February 3, 7:30pm $30 / $25 *Note: Due to family matters, Erik Mongrain will not be performing as originally scheduled. He has been replaced by Maneli Jamal.

“With the International Guitar Night, Brian Gore has created a new niche for the myriad of styles that can be played by the unaccompanied acoustic guitar, as well as marvelous opportunity for virtuosos to interact and learn from one another onstage.”

—DIRTY LINEN (100TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION)

HamptonArts.net DIVERSIONS 17 18 DIVERSIONS January/February/March 2015 Walnut Street Theatre presents A Life in the Theatre

A Life in the Theatre is a delightful theatrical experience for anyone who loves actors and the theater. The acclaimed Walnut Street Theatre company returns to The American Theatre with this funny and touching behind-the-scenes peek at the challenge of actors battling to share both the spotlight and a dressing room. A Life in the Theatre follows two actors in a comedy, high and low — a love letter to the theatre. It is quite a repertory company — Robert, an older experienced performer and feat, and he has pulled it off.’’ John, a newcomer. John at first welcomes Robert’s guidance, but Thursday, February 5, 7:30pm soon overshadows his mentor. From rehearsals to reprisals, from $30 / $25 ego trips to acting tips, the play gives a glimpse into the complex relationship that develops as the torch is passed from one generation “This fast-paced 90-minute play features to the next — a passing that wavers from love and mutual respect to impatience and resentment. multiple quick changes, and the two stars David Mamet is the Pulitzer Prize author of some of the most earn lots of laughs as they banter about important plays of our time, including American Buffalo, Glengarry each other’s performances, pre-show routines Glen Ross, Oleanna, and Speed-the-Plow. He has received multiple Oscar nominations for his screenplays and is widely considered and after-show plans. There’s a sweetness to one of the most influential American writers of his generation. He A Life in the Theatre that will appeal to was inspired to write A Life in the Theatre by his own experiences anyone who loves the stage.” backstage as an actor. The New Yorker declared, ‘‘Mr. Mamet has written — in gentle ridicule; in jokes, broad and tiny; and in — BROADWAY.COM

HamptonArts.net DIVERSIONS 19 20 DIVERSIONS January/February/March 2015 Arlo Guthrie 50th Anniversary of Alice’s Restaurant This legendary folk singer-songwriter returns to the The American Theatre to commemorate the 50th anniversary of his iconic song, “Alice’s Restaurant Massacree”. The tour will feature songs pulled from all the studio albums in Guthrie’s catalog, and the show will also be “curated” with a special multi-media presentation, featuring previously unseen images from the Guthrie archives. More than 75,000 photos have recently been digitized, and selections will be projected along with PETER STAR’s claymation film depicting Arlo’s “Motorcycle Song”. When a young Arlo, son of renowned folk legend Woody Guthrie, was arrested for littering on Thanksgiving Day back in 1965, he couldn’t know that it would launch his career and turn him into a counterculture hero. It ultimately helped spark an entire generation to embrace social activism. Guthrie charmed Hampton audiences with his witty stories, amusing anecdotes, and folk favorites throughout his many appearances here, and this concert promises a fresh take on Arlo’s remarkable career. Guthrie’s band will include Terry Hall (drums), Bobby Sweet (guitar, vocals), Darren Todd (guitar) and his son, Abe Guthrie (keyboards). Tuesday, February 10, 7:30pm Wednesday, February 11, 7:30pm $45 / $40

“I didn’t think I was gonna live long enough to have to learn ‘Alice’s Restaurant’ again. The fact that I have contended with it for five decades either by having to learn it again or by not doing it, has been an interesting balancing act. I’m surely looking forward to adding it to the repertoire though for the 50th anniversary tour.”

— ARLO GUTHRIE

HamptonArts.net DIVERSIONS 21 “Danú stirs the blood and lifts the heart.”

— IRISH MUSIC MAGAZINE

guests, the band grows to eight players and the dramatic sound and vibrancy of the performance increases exponentially. Hailing from historic County Waterford, Danú is one of the leading traditional Irish ensembles of today. Recognized the world over for their standing room only appearances, their exceptional concerts feature high-energy performances and a glorious mix of ancient Irish music and new repertoire. For two decades, Danú’s virtuosi players on flute, tin whistle, fiddle, button accordion and bouzouki, and vocalists (Irish and English), have performed around the globe and recorded nine critically acclaimed albums. Their live DVD, One Night Stand, was filmed at Vicar St. Dublin. Winners of numerous awards from the BBC and Irish Music Magazine, Danú has toured throughout the 20th Anniversary Tour United Kingdom, Europe, the Middle East, and North America with stops at venues such as The Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, Cal Performances, Stanford, the Krannert Center, Notre Dame, What do you do when your good friends reach 20 years of and Symphony Space in New York City. Danú’s popular recordings making glorious music together? Throw a party! This season marks are available on the Shanachie label and live performances are this extraordinary ensemble’s 20th anniversary and, as a special frequently broadcast on NPR, the CBC, and the BBC. treat, the 2015 American celebration tour will include two heralded Tuesday, March 3, 7:30pm former members of the ensemble. With the addition of these two $35 / $30

22 DIVERSIONS January/February/March 2015 HamptonArts.net DIVERSIONS 23 24 DIVERSIONS January/February/March 2015 Dana Leong Trio

Composer, cellist and trombonist Dana Leong fuses jazz, classical and pop to create a signature boundless sound. Often referred to as a “hi-def Yo-Yo Ma,” Dana’s pioneering collage of musical styles has garnered critical acclaim and wowed audiences around the world. Dana Leong Trio, featuring Dana (cello/trombone/ laptop), John Shannon (guitar) and DJ Icewater (turntables), is the latest incarnation of Dana’s ever-expansive compositions, bringing together an exciting electro-acoustic blend of jazz, classical and pop. Dana’s sound is a fusion of computerized electronic hip-hop funk rhythms and rock propulsions. While playing the cello or trombone, Dana also uses his laptop onstage to integrate electronic soundscapes. In 2012 he was part of the cast of Paquito D’Rivera’s 2x GRAMMY® Winning album The Panamercana Orchestra and he’s collaborated, performed, and produced for renowned artists “Whether on the cello, trombone or laptop, such as Christian McBride, Dafnis Prieto, Henry Threadgill, Ray whether playing straight-up jazz, classical, Charles, Barry White, Kanye West, Wynton Marsalis, Bjork, Ryuichi Sakamoto, Yoko Ono, and Lila Downs, as well as electronic or the many hybrid concoctions his work music legends DJ A-Trak and DJ Qbert. has already produced, Dana Leong seems to Dana Leong is a prodigious musical anomaly of the highest order. acknowledge no boundaries.” Saturday, March 14, 8:00pm $30 / $25 — ALL ABOUT JAZZ

HamptonArts.net DIVERSIONS 25 26 DIVERSIONS January/February/March 2015 Peter Yarrow An Afternoon of Conversation & Song

Peter’s talents as a creative artist — both with Peter, Paul & Mary and as a solo performer — are frequently directed at using music to convey a message of humanity and caring. His gift for songwriting has produced some of the most moving songs Peter, Paul & Mary have recorded, including “Puff, the Magic Dragon,” “Day is Done,” “Light One Candle,” and “The Great Mandala.” As a member of the renowned musical trio, he has earned many gold and platinum albums, and has been awarded numerous GRAMMYs and been nominated for several more. More important to Peter, however, is the acknowledgment of the central role that he and his partners have played in bringing the folk renaissance of the 1960s to the hearts and homes of the American public. “We’re part of a long train ride,” is the way Peter Yarrow visualizes the many events that have highlighted a career spanning more than four decades. With characteristic care, Yarrow places the success he’s had within a greater context, seeing his accomplishments as part of a tradition to be credited and carried on. “When I was in high school,” he recalls, “I heard The Weavers’ concert at Carnegie Hall where they sang songs such as ‘If I Had a Hammer,’ and ‘Wasn’t That a Time.’ It was inspiring, and it showed me the extraordinary effect that music of conscience can have.” Sunday, March 15, 2:30pm $45 / $40

“He invited the audience to sing along from the very first number, and he seemed to wholly enjoy the collective music making. Through it all, he impressed with his gentle soul, wry humor, and fierce commitment to the idea that music can and should help change the world. It feels almost like an afterthought to mention that, at 75 years old, his voice is in fine shape and his guitar playing is nimble.”

— HOOPLA

HamptonArts.net DIVERSIONS 27 THE CHARLES H. TAYLOR ARTS CENTER 757-727-1490 IN THE GALLERIES Gallery Hours Tue–Fri: 10am–6pm, Weekends: 1pm–5pm March 21–May 3, 2015 Artists Who Teach Juried Exhibition Artists currently teaching art in the four peninsula colleges and universities, as well as its public, private, and parochial schools are featured in this juried exhibition of over 115 art works in drawing, watercolor, painting, printmaking, photography, crafts and sculpture. Cash awards totaling $850, including $500 First Place, $250 Second Place, and $100 Third Place, five Awards of Merit and five Honorable Mentions will be selected by the juror, Gary Hess, In Safe Harbor, photograph well-known Tidewater painter, Jenny Windsor. Born in Roanoke, Windsor received her BA degree from the College of William and Mary. She has exhibited in many one person, group and juried exhibitions and has won numerous awards for her drawings and oil paintings. Her work is represented in numerous corporate and public collections, including The Charles H. Taylor Arts Center. In writing about jurying and her taste in art, Ms. Windsor writes, “No two people will see art exactly the same way. Past experience and where you are in your life affects your vision. As an artist, I am always grateful to be selected for recognition. However, when not recognized I try to listen to the juror’s philosophy realizing that ultimately I am the only one who can really chart my course. “I am drawn to work that engages me visually and elicits either an emotional or intellectual response. “The craft of art is important to me, but I define craft broadly. Mark Rothko engages me visually by his sophisticated Nicole Santiago interaction of color, Jacob Lawrence appeals to my sense of Baby design, Vermeer appeals to my interest in the play of light and Cakes design, and I love Bill Viola’s mastery of the art of video. Yet all oil of these artists have an additional layer to their work. Great art is never craft alone. I enjoy art that makes me feel the essence of something turning the ordinary into the universal or changes my perception of our world.”

Ryan Nealon, Binary, mixed media Richard Ward, Karma, concrete, tile and mirror shards

28 DIVERSIONS January/February/March 2015 IN THE GALLERIES March 21–May 3, 2015 Mary Lee Ruff: A Love of Drawing Mary Lee Ruff was awarded the First Place Award in the Artists Who Teach 2014 Juried Exhibition. Ms. Ruff has been creating art for the past twenty years, is an award winning artist who teaches drawing at CHTAC and has a drawing in the permanent collection of CHTAC. Combining precision and passion, observation and expression, Ruff has created a body of work that relies on the simplest of art techniques — a drawn mark on paper. She has pushed her craft through experimentation and Self-Portrait graphite fearlessness to elevate drawing to a fine art level. The most elusive quality that Ruff has is an inspired love of drawing. Her drawings capture the essence of her subjects as they are, truthfully with honest Evil Kitty feeling. She believes drawing is an expression of the inner soul, graphite revealing the soul of the subject and reflecting the soul of the artist. She has a voice that wordlessly speaks volumes, giving the viewer a myriad of experiences with a single glance. “I love the feel of the pencil in my hand. I strive to create mood and feeling in my work. I want the spirit of the subject to be felt by the viewer. I want the viewer to be touched by the subject, much the same way that I am.”

Splendid Fleabane graphite

Mock Orange graphite

HamptonArts.net DIVERSIONS 29 LIGHTHOUSE SERIES

A beacon of hope and safety, lighthouses have been providing a path to safe harbor for hundreds of years. Hampton’s own historic lighthouse, Old Point Comfort, has been guiding hearty souls safely home since 1803. New this season, The American Theatre offers its own beacon of hope to the arts community, providing local talent a path to a welcoming and safe creative home. In our new Lighthouse Series, you’ll find individual performances by talented community artists and ongoing events designed to welcome and grow new generations of talent, and provide our creative community the opportunity to share their unique interests and stories. All the Way LIVE! Series First Sunday Series Remember Showtime at the Apollo where both professional NAT’S LAST STRUGGLE: A ONE ACT PLAY BY P. A. WRAY and up-and-coming artists would perform LIVE for an audience? This one-act, one-man drama about Nat Turner and the Slave Wouldn’t you have loved to be in that audience?! Well from Insurrection of 1831, is as much education as it is strong drama, Harlem to Hampton...now you can! An Apollo-like experience but it may have one-bettered history by giving us a Nat who is not has entered your backyard every 1st Wednesday of the month at shadowy but definite and credible and maybe even understandable, The American Theatre in Hampton! even in these times when he would most likely be considered a All the Way LIVE! features two amateur competitions, a terrorist or a religious extremist. This thought-provoking play’s contest for adults and a separate category for children. Talent emotional power takes on new dimensions as the threat of will be selected from auditions and competitions to compete extremism gets closer to our doors. for cash prizes. Produced by SEEDAHOPE Productions, All Sunday, January 4, 2015, 7:30pm, Free the Way LIVE! features a talented house band backing up all performers and each event will be hosted by a local celebrity. GYPSY CHARM: A NEW FAMILY MUSICAL BY SHARI GRABER As we saw in December, All The Way LIVE! is the place to be! Tapping into the current cultural hunger for the supernatural, Wednesday, January 7, 2015, 7:30pm this new musical is sure to delight young audiences and families as it Wednesday, March 4, 2015, 7:30pm follows a young girl who is in search of a way to remove an ancient *No show in February Gypsy curse which threatens to end her life by a certain age. $10 Sunday, February 1, 2015, 7:30pm, Free FIVE SHORT PLAYS: BY THREE VPF WRITERS — JEAN H. KLEIN, P. A. WRAY, AND JOHN F. X. DELANEY These three writers take on the quest of using literature to describe various aspects of the human condition in these five plays: Life Swap — “a hilarious, twisted comedy” by Jean H. Klein Living in remote areas has its dangers; a family living in the hills takes advantage of a reality show to have one danger removed. A Slippery Slope — “a relevant, funny, drama” by P. A. Wray A novice teacher loses control of her class when arguments over reporting and interpreting scientific findings lead to a fight between two students with different mindsets. Showers —“a chilling drama” by John F. X. Delaney An honorable man, a former soldier, appeals to the honor of another man, a countryman and fellow soldier — but there is no honor in a heart where bigotry and depravity reside. Marco and Neil — “a timely, powerful drama” by P. A. Wray Men constantly test each other, but it can go too far — a young activist jailed for protesting finds this out when he’s thrown in jail and has to contend with a malcontented and damaged man. Priming the Pump — “a hilarious, tragic comedy” by Jean H. Klein A relentless reality show host, who pushes his guests to their breaking points, is undone by a mousey, battered woman he may have pushed too far — or did he? Sunday, March 1, 2015, 7:30pm, Free

30 DIVERSIONS January/February/March 2015 The Fuzz Band Chronicles The final concert in our Veer Music Award winner concert series highlights a few of the talented local bands recognized by their peers for their musical excellence. The Fuzz Band will be taking participants on a Journey through their musical inspirations — spanning 18 years and 5 albums. The Journey will stimulate the visual and auditory nerves and include guest performances; the creative, visual, and movement arts; poetry & prose; and the elements of Hip-Hop as influenced by its Jazz predecessors. 2014 Veer Music Award winners for Best R&B, The Fuzz Band, whose sound is a fusion of Urban & Rock music, met and formed while attending Hampton University. The Fuzz Band has been featured in the Hollywood Issue of Black Enterprise Magazine, and has received nods in Rolling Stone and in Spin Magazine. The band has performed with GRAMMY® award winning artists such as Alicia Keys, Lauryn Hill, Chicago, Jill Scott and Outkast. Surviving the dreaded “curse” which tends to tear most bands apart, the Fuzz Band continues to rock! Saturday, January 24, 2015, 8:00pm $15

FAMILY FUN SERIES Mad River Theatre Works Freedom Bound Our talented friends from Mad River Theatre Works return to present Freedom Bound, an original play with music that tells the tale of the most important incident in the history of the Underground Railroad in Ohio. The show follows the story of Addison White, a slave who escaped from Kentucky and traveled the Railroad north to the small town of Mechanicsburg, OH. There, he was befriended by a farmer named Udney Hyde. He lived in Hyde’s barn, working for his meals by day and learning to read and write with the help of Hyde’s daughter, Amanda, by night. Hyde was a suspected abolitionist, however, and it was not long before Addison was discovered by his former Master. Federal marshals surrounded Hyde’s cabin in the middle of the night. They were prepared to arrest Addison and return him to slavery, but over 100 citizens from Mechanicsburg confronted I was the conductor of the Underground the marshals and demanded that they set Addison free. Freedom Bound uses drama and music, as well as riddles and rhyme, to create Railroad for eight years, and I can say what characters that emerge from the past and bring the Underground most conductors can’t say — I never ran my Railroad to life right before your eyes. train off the track and I never lost a passenger. Saturday, February 14, 2015, 2:30pm $10 — HARRIET TUBMAN

HamptonArts.net DIVERSIONS 31 ENCORE AT THE AMERICAN THEATRE

Phoebus High School stopped in front of The American Theatre to perform.

Dancers performed at the Phoebus Fall Festival pose in front of the theater between shows.

Matt and Dustin Wallace of The Prince Ink Co., enjoyed the Phoebus Fall Partnership for a New Phoebus board member, Festival. Sally Lazochek, manned an info table at the A magician has fun with an unsuspecting Phoebus Fall Festival. helper during the Phoebus Fall Festival.

Our volunteer, Beth Shumate, poses with Igor, of Igor’s Signs and Stripes, finished signing Arts leaders from around the area gathered in her artwork on display in the Lecture the back of his original work, auctioned off during our Lecture Hall for a workshop presented by Hall Gallery as part of the Peninsula the Phoebus Film Club showing of Sign Painters: The Cultural Alliance of Greater Hampton Roads. Watermedia Society Exhibition. The Movie.

Jeff Stern and blues legend Eddie Taming of the Shrew director, Patrick Mullins, took Our winning zombies, selected during the Shaw in the lobby after Eddie’s feedback from the audience during the post- show Phoebus Film Club screening of Night of the phenomenal performance. discussion. Living Dead.

32 DIVERSIONS January/February/March 2015 Halloween & Volunteer Our Volunteers Spotlight Hampton Arts volunteers: a team of dedicated individuals over 100 strong. This Volunteer Spotlight section, a continuing feature in Diversions, with a special focus on a recent volunteer intern at The Charles H. Taylor Arts Center. Erin Waynick, a photography major at Thomas Nelson Community College spent weekly hours volunteering last fall as an intern at The Charles H. Taylor Arts Center, as part of her credited studies. She assisted staff with our Poetry Readings, shooting, editing and organizing photographs of events, artworks and archival materials. She also learned about and assisted staff and other volunteers in art exhibition installations. Erin Waynick — Intern at CHTAC Erin credits her husband and daughter with inspiring her to follow her own creative path. “I’m a mother to the most incredible little girl on the planet and she is my muse. She, along with the encouragement of my amazing husband, has brought my photography to another level. Capturing my daughter’s unique personality and style has been such a joy and has been my constant source of inspiration.” In describing her intern experience Erin said, “I have really enjoyed volunteering at The Charles H. Taylor Arts Center — the people are awesome! Erin Waynick Hatteras Sunset I loved meeting the artists and seeing all of their photograph work, it’s both impressive and inspiring to me. I’ve learned so much about how an arts center functions. It’s been great to be involved in all of the different aspects of an art exhibition installation and to see all of the tiny details that make it so successful. I have learned so much and I hope to continue volunteering after my internship from school is completed.” We appreciated and will miss Erin’s hard work, dedication, skills and cheerful personality, and wish her all the best in her future studies and career. Learn more about Erin by visiting her website at www. eclecticviewphotography.com. Hampton Arts welcomes intern requests. If you would like to learn more about internship opportunities at The American Theatre and The Charles H. Taylor Arts Erin Waynick Center, please contact Jeff Stern at [email protected] End of Summer or 757-896-1240. photograph HamptonArts.net DIVERSIONS 33 LIGHTHOUSE SERIES REMEMBER THE TITANS This special addition to the Phoebus Film Club Phoebus Film Club schedule is hosted by City of Hamp- ton’s Citizen’s Unity Commis- Series sion and begins at 7:00pm. In Virginia, high school football is a way of life, an institution revered, each game celebrated more lavishly than Christmas, each playoff distinguished more grandly than any national holiday. And with such recognition, comes powerful emotions. In 1971 high school football was everything to the people of Alexandria. But when the local school board was forced to integrate an all-black school with an all-white school, the very foundation of football’s great tradition was put to the test. Following the movie screening, representatives from The Citizens Unity Commission will lead a community talk- back about the themes and ideas presented in the film. Theatrical Release Rating: PG Thursday, February 12, 2015, 7:00pm $8

THE BICYCLE THIEF The Bicycle Thief quickly solidified its position as one of the greatest films ever made when it was originally ART AND CRAFT: WHAT’S IT TAKE TO CATCH A FAKE? released. In his December This award-winning documentary starts out as a cat-and-mouse 13th, 1949 review for The art caper, rooted in questions of authorship and authenticity—but New York Times, Bosley what emerges is an intimate story of obsession and the universal Crowther called it “brilliant need for community, appreciation, and purpose. Mark Landis has and devastating — a film been called one of the most prolific art forgers in US history. His that will tear your heart, but impressive body of work spans thirty years, covering a wide range which should fill you with warmth and compassion.” The film of painting styles and periods that includes 15th Century Icons, later won a special honorary Academy Award for Outstanding Picasso, and even Walt Disney. And while the copies could fetch Foreign Language Film. The Golden Globes also awarded it Best impressive sums on the open market, Landis isn’t in it for money. Foreign Film and the British Academy of Film and Television Arts Posing as a philanthropic donor, a grieving executor of a family (BAFTA) called it the Best Film from any Source. The National member’s will, and most recently as a Jesuit priest, Landis has Board of Review gave it awards for Best Director (Vittorio De given away hundreds of works over the years to a staggering list Sica) and Best Film (Any Language), and the New York Film of institutions across the United States. But after duping Matthew Critics Circle Awards also named it Best Foreign Language Film. Leininger, a tenacious registrar who ultimately discovers the In subsequent years The Bicycle Thief appeared in many Top Ten decades-long ruse and sets out to expose his philanthropic escapades lists such as the Sight & Sound International Critics Poll, where it to the art world, Landis must confront his own legacy and a chorus was top of the list in 1952. Throughout the decades other critics of museum professionals clamoring for him to stop. added their voices, including such well-respected luminaries as Thursday, January 22, 2015, 7:30pm Andre Bazin, Pauline Kael and playwright Arthur Miller. $8 Thursday, February 19, 2015, 7:30pm $8 34 DIVERSIONS January/February/March 2015 LIGHTHOUSE SERIES THE CONNECTION: MIND YOUR BODY The Connection is a film about how frontier research is proving that there is a direct connection between your mind and your health. The film features scientists, researchers, writers and doctors, as well as remarkable true stories of people adding mind body medicine to their healing toolkit to recover from severe back pain, heart disease, infertility, cancer and multiple sclerosis. While the science is complex, the solutions for people suffering with illness are astonishingly simple. The film shows that we can counter the harmful effects of stress with an equally powerful relaxation response triggered through specific techniques such as meditation. It shows that emotions can impact the course of an illness for better or for worse and could even be the difference between life and death. The film explains the mechanisms behind belief, which scientists now know contributes 30 to 50 percent of the effect of any known biological cure and explores how scientists at the cutting edge are now learning that the mind can even influence the expression of genes and the rate at which we age. After the film screening the Integrative Medicine Alliance of Coastal Virginia (IMAVC), an Alliance of Wellness Professionals bridging Health, Healing, and Happiness for Coastal Virginians, will host a panel of wellness professionals to discuss the ideas and concepts presented in the film. Thursday, March 5, 2015, 7:30pm, $8

CASABLANCA An undisputed masterpiece and perhaps Hollywood’s quintessential statement on love and romance. In World War II Casablanca, Rick Blaine, exiled American and former freedom fighter, runs the most popular nightspot in town. The cynical lone wolf Blaine comes into the possession of two valuable letters of transit. When Nazi Major Strasser arrives in Casablanca, the sycophantic police Captain Renault does what he can to please him, including detaining a Czechoslovak underground leader Victor Laszlo. Much to Rick’s surprise, Lazslo arrives with Ilsa, Rick’s one time love. Rick is very bitter towards Ilsa, who ran out on him in Paris, but when he learns she had good reason to, they plan to run off together again using the letters of transit. Well, that was their original plan.... Casablanca has only improved with age, boasting career-defining performances from Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman. Thursday, March 19, 2015, 7:30pm $8

HamptonArts.net DIVERSIONS 35 Poetry Inspired by Art AT THE CHARLES H. TAYLOR ART CENTER

John Tobin How Do You Say Cheese on Your Planet? clay

DONUT MADNESS Poem by Abigail Rathbone Inspired by Heather Bryant’s Watercolor and Gouache

O donuts! This is the very face of Bulimic binge, the creature within Like something from “Alien” pops out To gorge Obliterating the person With an incarnation of Sheer appetite-unstoppable, Great green dragon force of Nature Pink, blue and white sprinkles Demonic bits of sugar in all The Devil’s forms, splay like pimples FEARING OUR OWN Across the body of this Manic being whose by Karen Long Freidt Expression proves Inspired by John Tobin’s How Do You Say Cheese on Your Planet? There is no greater good No higher activity Unknown reflections No more elevated endeavor excite and frighten Than stuffing oneself with Although looking back, Heather Bryant Unequivocally Donut Madness 2 The crappiest crap in the world what was once a fear mixed media we now hold dear Beyond bliss, beyond Nirvana, Beyond everything — Differences scare us O donuts! as does the unknown Looks may deceive even fearing our own If only our eyes would TUFTED TITMOUSE see hearts instead Poem by Abigail Rathbone we could all sleep better Inspired by Larry L. Bridgman Watercolor at night in our beds His soft blue down is all fluffed up, Perhaps from a recent rain, Circumscribed in a mini- frame, he looms larger Than his ordinary status as a tiny creature. Now is his moment to shine and be noticed Away from the larger context of competitive life, The pecking order of nature where big seems Likelier to be more powerful, Unless of course we are speaking of The sub microscopic feared Larry L. Bridgman Killers of men whose infinite smallness Tufted Titmouse Is their horrifying strength. watercolor

36 DIVERSIONS January/February/March 2015 BRAVO AT THE CHARLES H. TAYLOR ART CENTER

Beverly Abbott demonstrates Miniature Painting at the Small Works Reception. Barbara Good and Volunteer Doreen Smith greet visitors at Small Works Reception.

Lisa and Chuck Mosser enjoying the Small Works Reception.

Jo Louise Harding, Merrilee Cleveland, James Carter and baby Quinn at Small Works Opening Reception.

Masako Simmons and Emiko Murakami at Small Works Reception.

Scott and Carol Bartram pose beside her Award Lynn Hillerson Cherin and Sandy Hillerson Winning Small Works at Small Works 2014 Opening Reception. Watercolor.

HamptonArts.net DIVERSIONS 37 LIGHTHOUSE SERIES SEA LEVEL SINGER/SONGWRITER FESTIVAL PRESENTS band, “The UnXpected,” which was named Veer Magazine’s Best Teen Band in 2014. Sea Level Festival 2014 Emerging Artist finalists Dustin Furlow and Kelsie McNair will open the concert. Logan’s first music video 2014 Emerging Artist Winner for her song, “Won’t Let It,” written as a tribute to those fighting cancer, will be debuted. Saturday, January 10, 2015, 8:00pm Logan Layman $10 adv / $15 door in Concert Blues musician/singer/songwriter Logan Layman headlines her own concert at The American Theater. The concert is part of a prize package Layman received for winning the Sea Level Singer/ Songwriter’s Emerging Artist Contest in April 2014. Layman is no stranger to accolades, having been named “Blues Kid of the Year” by the Fernando Jones Blues Kids Association. She is known in music circles as the little girl with the big voice — and even bigger bass lines. Now 14 and a freshman at Warhill High School in Williamsburg, Layman studies upright bass, piano, vocals, and music theory. Her favorite female vocalists are Shemekia Copeland, Bonnie Raitt and Carolyn Wonderland. She performs locally and regionally with her guitarist brother Cole Layman, 17, as the award- winning duo “In Layman Terms.” She also fronts a four-piece blues

Proceeds benefit the 2015 Fernando Jones Blues Camp in Hampton. The Blues Kids Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit The Blues is Still Good organization, was established to preserve, perform and promote the Blues among America’s youth, parents and educators under the tutelage of highly qualified instructors. Their focus is on education, News Benefit Concert literacy, and music as a second language. Music is truly universal, After a wildly successful concert last season, The Hampton transcends all types of barriers, and provides benefits that last a chapter of The Fernando Jones Blues Camp and The Blues Kids lifetime. If you are interested in learning more about auditions for Foundation returns with, “The Blues Is Still Good News”. Enjoy the summer blues camp please go to www.blueskids.com. more high-energy performances, pairing some of the finest young Saturday, February 21, 2015, 7:00pm musicians with extraordinary local musical talent. $12.50 per person in advance, $15 at the door

38 DIVERSIONS January/February/March 2015 We are fortunate to live in a community with people like you who understand the value of preserving The American Theater and The Charles H. Taylor Arts Center. Please consider supporting us by using the form below and We hope you are enjoying the exciting Hampton Arts 2014- returning it today. Your tax deductible gift will help ensure that these 2015 Season. two historical venues continue their vital year-round grassroots and One of the goals of the Hampton Arts Foundation, a unique public/ world-class performances, art exhibits, workshops and meaningful private partnership shared with the Hampton Arts Commission, is to community outreach efforts. provide long term financial support to maintain high standards of The members of the Hampton Arts Foundation wish you a excellence in arts entertainment for our region. healthy and prosperous New Year.

Please detach and mail to The Hampton Arts Foundation call 757-722-2787 125 East Mellen Street, Hampton, VA 23663 Yes I WANT TO SUPPORT THE HAMPTON ARTS FOUNDATION! Name: ______Please print as you would like to be acknowledged. Address: ______City ______State: ______Zip: ______I would like to receive email updates. My email address is______Enroll me as: _____ Sponsor: $5,000 + ______Patron: $2,500 – $4,999 ______Partner: $1,000 – $2,499 ______Contributor: $500 – $999 _____ Donor: $250 – $499 ______Friend: $100 – $249 ______Other: $ ______Check enclosed, payable to: The Hampton Arts Foundation _____ Please bill me on: ______Charge my o Visa o MasterCard Account#: ______Exp. date______Charge as a one time gift. $ ______Charge $ _____ per month for _____ months. Signature: ______THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT The Hampton Arts Foundation is a 501 c3 federally exempt non-profit organization. Your gift is tax deductible to the full extent of the law.

HamptonArts.net DIVERSIONS 39 WINTER CLASSES CALL 727-1490 TO REGISTER ASK ABOUT MATERIALS LISTS/REQUIREMENTS WHEN YOU REGISTER.

DRAWING FOR BEGINNING, INTERMEDIATE AND ADVANCED AGES 18+ The class is for beginning to advanced students to develop skills in graphite and Prismacolor pencil, Speedball pen and ink, Crayola crayon or inked scratchboard. Emphasis on subject, depth and the principles of ADULT CLASSES design will be discussed and application demonstrated. Class will include lectures, demonstrations, and critiques. Syllabus and material list will be given at the first class. YOGA: IN THE GALLERIES AGES 18+ Enjoy learning about and practicing Yoga surrounded by art in our Instructor: JOAN RUSHIN FOLSOM galleries. Students will enjoy a relaxing session of breath work and Saturdays, 11:00 am–3:00 pm, January 17–March 21 meditative motion. No experience in yoga is required and students of all 10 classes, class limit: 10, $155 (HAL members $150) levels will be comfortable, as the poses are adaptable to provide the desired intensity. Please provide your own mat and wear comfortable clothing. THE LANDSCAPE IN PASTEL AGES 18+ Instructor: JANET ABEL Beginning students will learn basic pastel techniques while more advanced Session A: Monday Evenings, 6:00–7:00 pm students will take their work to another level. Emphasis will focus on color January 12–March 23 choices, composition and value. Learn how to simplify what you see — No class January 19, February 16 what to leave out and why. Working from your photos, students will delve Session B: Wednesday Evenings, 6:30–7:30 pm deeper into color temperature changes, edge control and atmospheric January 14–March 25 perspective. Materials list will be emailed or mailed. No class January 21 and February 18 Instructor: MARY CHRISTIE 9 classes, class limit: 12, $90 (HAL members $85) Sunday, March 1, 1:30–4:30 pm 1 class, class limit: 12, $50 (HAL members $45)

DRAWING AGES 18+ This class is designed for students from beginning to more experienced. Beginning students will learn basic drawing fundamentals, including materials and techniques. Those more experienced students will work more independently using the materials and subject of their personal choice. The educational focus of this session will be on ‘Drawing from Within’ using imagination, improvisation, empathy, emotion, and memory to develop students’ individual artistic styles and enhance their ability to better convey feeling and intent in their work. Materials list will be emailed or mailed. Instructor: MARY LEE RUFF Session A: Thursdays, 1:00–3:30 pm Session B: Thursdays, 6:30–9:00 pm January 15–March 5 8 classes, class limit: 12, $145 (HAL members $140)

FIGURE DRAWING ADULTS 18+ INTRODUCTION TO BONSAI WORKSHOP AGES 18+ The human form is the most imperfect, dynamic, and widely interpreted In this hands-on workshop, students will learn about materials and subject of artists, making it the perfect platform for self-expression. Polish techniques, artistic form, horticultural concepts and the creative process of your powers of observation, channel your perceptions, and enhance selecting material and applying design principles. Materials each student your drawing skills. Model will do a variety of many short poses and a will take home: bonsai tree, annealed copper wire, bonsai soil, bonsai few longer poses. Students will work independently without instruction, training pot and worksheet. Tools provided during the workshop: concave providing the drawing media of their choice. pruners, trimming shears, wire cutters and wire pliers. No Instructor Instructor: CHRIS SCHMUCK Session A: Wednesday 6:30–9:00 pm, January 21 Sunday, February 8, 9:00 am–12:00 pm and 1:00–4:00 pm Session B: Wednesday 6:30–9:00 pm, February 25 Class limit: 6, $120 (HAL members $115) 2 classes, class limit: 12 Class fee includes materials each student will take home. $20 (HAL members $15) PER CLASS

40 DIVERSIONS January/February/March 2015 AT THE CHARLES H. TAYLOR ARTS CENTER

another level. The class will feature lecture, demonstrations, individual ADULTS 18+ FIGURE PAINTING instruction, and critiques. Materials list will be emailed or mailed prior to The human form is the most imperfect, dynamic, and widely interpreted start of class. subject of artists, making it the perfect platform for self-expression. Polish your powers of observation, channel your perceptions, and Instructor: JAMES WARWICK JONES enhance your painting skills. The model will do only one sustained pose. Session A: Tuesdays, 1:00–3:30 pm, January 13–March 24 Students will work independently without instruction using the painting No class January 27, February 16 & March 17 media of their choice. 9 classes, class limit: 12, $140 (HAL members $135) Session B: Thursdays, 6:30–9:00 pm, January 15–March 26 No Instructor No class January 29 & March 19 Wednesday 6:30–9:00 pm, March 25 9 classes, class limit: 12, $140 (HAL members $135) 1 class, class limit: 12 Session C: Saturdays, 10:00 am–12:30 pm, January 17–March 21 $20 (HAL members $15) 10 classes, class limit: 12, $155 (HAL members $150)

WATERCOLOR PAINTING AGES 18+ DIGITAL CAMERA 101 AGES 18+ Beginning students will learn about the fundamental materials and New to digital photography, or want to learn about how to use your techniques of watercolor, while more experienced students will sharpen digital camera? This class for beginners will cover the advantages of digital their skills with individual instruction. Class will include lecture, photography, the required and optional gear needed, and introduce students demonstrations and critiques. Students may work from their own original to the importance of the “Digital Darkroom” for post-processing of images. photographs, still life set ups, drawings or imagination. Materials list will Class will also cover principles of composition and introduce students to the be emailed or mailed prior to start of class. Exposure Triangle. There will be an optional shooting assignment for the Instructor: BETTY ANGLIN second class. Bring your digital camera and instruction manual. Wednesdays, 10:00 am–12:30 pm, January 14–March 18 Instructor: WAYNE BERRY 10 classes, class limit: 12, $155 (HAL members $150) Wednesdays, 6:30–9:00 pm, February 4 & 11 2 classes, class limit: 12, $35 (HAL members $30) PAINTING IN OIL, ACRYLIC OR WATERCOLOR HIGH SCHOOL AND ADULTS INTERMEDIATE PHOTOGRAPHY AGES 18+ Students with any level of experience from beginning to more advanced, Is it time to take your photography to the next level? Then this class is a may work with either oils, acrylics, and explore their own style and must. We will review the basics and then go into greater depth on topics subject matter. Beginning students will learn fundamental materials and including exposure, composition and perspective. Using the Exposure techniques, while more experienced students will be challenged to reach Triangle, we will examine the relationships between ISO, shutter speed and aperture settings, and will examine the various shooting modes (manual, shutter or aperture priority, or the program or auto settings) and how to use them. Finally, this class will include a brief overview of post processing workflow and some of the computer applications that are commonly used to manage our digital image files. Instructor: GARY HESS Wednesdays, 6:30–9:00 pm, March 4 & 11 Class limit: 12, $35 (HAL members $30)

PHOTOGRAPHING YOUR ARTWORK AGES 18+ Learn the fundamentals of photographing artwork using a basic digital camera and available lighting. Basic instruction about editing the digital photos including straightening, cropping, adjusting color and exposure and naming the digital files. Bring two of your artworks that you would like to photograph, preferably not under glass. Instructor: JAMES WARWICK JONES Sunday, March 8 Session A: 1:30-2:30 pm Session B: 2:30-3:30 pm Session C: 3:30-4:30 pm 1 class, class limit: 6, $15 (HAL members $10)

HamptonArts.net DIVERSIONS 41 WINTER CLASSES CALL 727-1490 TO REGISTER ASK ABOUT MATERIALS LISTS/REQUIREMENTS WHEN YOU REGISTER.

PAINTING FOR KIDS AGES 6–12 Young artists will explore a variety of painting media including watercolor, tempera and mixed media as they learn about painting still life, portrait, landscape and other subjects. They will learn about materials, techniques, color mixing and design as they expand their painting skills and create family mementos. All materials included. Instructor: AMANDA WALLACE Saturdays, 1:30–3:30 pm, February 21–March 21 5 classes, class limit: 12, $100

YOGA THERAPY WITH DR. DILIP SARKAR CHILDREN’S CLASSES AT THE AMERICAN THEATRE Dilip Sarkar is one of the foremost experts in Yoga Therapy who combines his 45-year experience in Conventional Medicine with his DRAWING FOR KIDS AGES 6–12 extensive knowledge of Integrative Medicine, including Ayurveda Young artists will explore a variety of drawing media including, pencil, and Yoga Therapy. Students will enjoy Dr. Sarkar’s relaxing session pen and ink, colored pencil, pastel and charcoal as the learn about of breath work and meditative motion. Classes take place in the drawing still life, portrait, landscape and other subjects. Students will Dance Studio of The American discover line, shape, and design as they expand their drawing skills. All Theatre; no experience in yoga materials included. is required and students of all levels will be comfortable, Instructor: JEFF BURNS as the poses are adaptable to Saturdays, 1:30–3:30 pm, January 17–February 7 provide the desired intensity. 4 classes, class limit: 12, $80 Students should provide their own yoga mats and wear VALENTINES FOR KIDS AGES 6–12 comfortable clothing. Young artists will work with a variety of drawing, painting, mixed Wednesdays, 6–8pm, unless media, marbling, paper weaving and collage to create their own unique a performance is scheduled Valentines for special people in their lives. Their creations will be at The American Theatre. treasured family mementos. Please call to confirm a class. Instructor: NINNETTE SANTARONE $40 for 5 classes or $10 for Saturday, February 14, 1:30–3:30 pm a single session, collected at 1 class, class limit: 12, $20 the beginning of each class.

42 DIVERSIONS January/February/March 2015 AT THE CHARLES H. TAYLOR ARTS CENTER

Yoga at the Arts Center NOTES FOR ALL CLASSES: • Dress for Mess! The Charles H. Taylor Arts Center offers Yoga classes in our • All materials provided for student’s classes, unless Library Gallery on Monday and Wednesday evenings throughout otherwise noted. the year. Our instructor, Janet Abel, is an Experienced Registered • Please register early to ensure you have a space Yoga Teacher (E-RYT) certified by the Yoga Alliance, a member in class. of the International Association of Yoga Therapists, and an • Refunds will not be given for students withdrawing from Ayurvedic Lifestyle Consultant. She began teaching in the area classes. Credits will be given for future classes. in 2001 and left her day job to incorporate into a full time yoga • Please inform CHTAC of student’s special needs when LLC in 2005. In the fall of 2007, a friend gave her “Art Lovers registering; the studio is not wheelchair accessible. Perform Yoga in Museums,” by the Associated Press Writer Ellen • Students should not arrive more than 15 minutes early for a R. Stapleton. Janet says she approached three galleries with this class and should be picked up promptly at the end of class. idea but only James Warwick Jones at The Charles H. Taylor Art Center was open to the idea. He said, “We’ve never done it ABOUT OUR INSTRUCTORS: before, but I like the idea, so write a proposal and we’ll give it a JANET ABEL, an E.R.Y.T. — Experienced Registered try” — and classes began in May of 2008! We went from 4 to 24 Yoga Teacher, has been teaching yoga since 2001. students practically overnight when the first picture was added to BETTY ANGLIN graduated from W&M and the description of the class in Diversions Magazine that winter. A taught watercolor at CNU for 40 years before second class was added to accommodate the rising demand and we retiring in 2011. have been going strong ever since. Our students are a friendly mix of long time attendees and new WAYNE BERRY is a working photographer and comers. They love practicing yoga surrounded by the beautiful art photography instructor. in the galleries of The Charles H. Taylor Arts Center. It is such JEFF BURNS holds his BFA degree from CNU and a peaceful setting, especially when the lights are dimmed. The has taught art in Hampton City Schools for 16 years. smooth flowing therapeutic yoga links the postures with the flow of the breath for just the right balance of work and relaxation. The MARY CHRISTIE received her BA in Studio Art from art flows right along with the students as it changes every six weeks. California State and has taught art five years. There are modifications for students of beginner, intermediate, JOAN RUSHIN FOLSOM has an MFA from NSU and and advanced fitness levels, so that everyone feels energized and ODU and has been teaching drawing for 30 years. relaxed at the end of class. The hardest part is getting up at the end because if feels so nice nobody wants to go home! GARY HESS is an award winning professional photographer with over 40 years of experience. JAMES WARWICK JONES has his BS in Art Ed from ODU and has 40 years of teaching experience. MARY LEE RUFF is a widely exhibited, award winning artist, whose work is in the collection of CHTAC. NINNETTE SANTARONE is an enthusiastic, Hampton City Schools art teacher with a master’s in art. CHRIS SCHMUCK is an award-winning bonsai artist and former President of Peninsula Bonsai Society. AMANDA WALLACE received her BFA degree from VCU and has been teaching since 2003.

HamptonArts.net DIVERSIONS 43 44 DIVERSIONS January/February/March 2015 HamptonArts.net DIVERSIONS 45 PRESORT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID The American Theatre HAMPTON, VA 125 East Mellen Street, Hampton, VA 23663 PERMIT NO 574 757-722-2787 Box Office Hours Mon–Fri: 9am–5pm The Charles H. Taylor Arts Center 4205 Victoria Boulevard, Hampton, VA 23669 757-727-1490 Gallery Hours Tue–Fri: 10am–6pm, Weekends: 1pm–5pm

JANUARY/FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015

WELLINGTON INTERNATIONAL UKULELE ORCHESTRA — JAN 13 HAL OPEN MEMBERS EXHIBITION — JAN 31–MAR 15

ARLO GUTHRIE: ALICE’S RESTAURANT 50TH ANNIV. — FEB 10 & 11 MAD RIVER THEATRE WORKS: FREEDOM BOUND — FEB 14