Adam Avery of Avery Brewing Co., with Jason and Julie Atallah, Co-Owners of Brusin’ Ales, at a Beer Tasting Event

Home , Dean Parks, I See It Now, Southern Fried, The Fabled City

Baritone David Malis performs as part of Asheville Lyric Opera’s 10th Year Anniversary Concert. page 5

“Galumpha,” a three-performer acrobatic ensemble, performs on January 23 and 24. page 8

Adam Avery of Avery Brewing Co., with Jason and Julie Atallah, co-owners of Brusin’ Ales, at a beer tasting event. page 32

Southern Fried Chicks page 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS ART Talk Experience Christo and Jeanne-Claude: Projects

he Asheville by Kim Zdanowicz Art Mu- seum invites you to ex- Christo and perience the Jeanne-Claude innovative were both born on Tworks of internation- June 13, 1935, he as ally acclaimed artists Christo Javacheff in Christo and Jeanne- Bulgaria and she as Claude in the exhibi- Jeanne-Claude Denat tion titled Christo de Guillebon in and Jeanne-Claude: Morocco of a French Projects opening military family. Friday, January 16, Christo studied at the 2009 with an opening Fine Arts Academy reception from 5 to in Sofia, Bulgaria 7 p.m. that evening. from 1953 to 1956. This event is free In 1957, he escaped with Museum Mem- Prague, eventually making his way to bership or admission. Christo and Jeanne-Claude at Held in con- “The Gates, Central Park, New York Paris. There Christo junction with City, 1979-2005” in February 2005. met Jeanne-Claude the Asheville Art Photo by Wolfgang Volz. in 1958 when he Museum’s smArt Copyright Christo and Jeanne-Claude 2005. was commissioned speak: Distinguished to paint a portrait of Artist Series, Christo and Jeanne-Claude: her mother. Jeanne-Claude was educated Projects offers audiences the chance to see in France and Switzerland, and earned the artistic process behind many of the degrees in philosophy and Latin from the monumental public art projects undertak- University of Tunis. Since that time, they en by Christo and Jeanne-Claude during have collaborated on an impressive array the past five decades. of artistic work. Christo and Jeanne-Claude have This exhibition was organized and transcended the traditional boundaries of curated by the Asheville Art Museum painting, drawing, sculpture and archi- with special thanks to Christo and Jeanne- tecture. This exhibition examines the Claude. This exhibition is sponsored in wide variety of media used by the artists part by Bank of America. and explores the breadth of their work as Related programs: they move from contained forms to more Christo and Jeanne-Claude Community fluid, open structures that evoke tensile Poster Installation, Thursday, January 15 architecture. The exhibition will include to Sunday, February 15, 2009. early packages and wrapped objects like Package, 1961, a tightly wrapped and Art Break: Christo and Jeanne-Claude: bound mass. It continues with draw- Projects. Friday, January 30, 12 noon. ings and collages for most of the artists’ Free with Museum Membership or Ad- monumental projects, including The mission. Umbrellas, Japan—U.S.A., 1984-91, The Pont Neuf Wrapped, Paris, 1975-85, Sur- rounded Islands, Biscayne Bay, Greater www.ashevilleart.org. Visit our blog! Miami, Florida, 1980-83, and Running www.ashevilleartmuseum.blogspot.com Fence, Sonoma and Marin Counties, California, 1972-76. Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s installation projects require years of planning. If The considerable activity which precedes You Centrally located in down- the installation of a piece is as much a o: town Asheville on Pack G Square, the Museum is open part of the work as the actual installations. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday Zoning board hearings, public forums, through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. parliamentary debates, legal negotiations, on Sunday. The Museum is open every Fri- preparatory drawings and collages are part day until 8 p.m. Admission to the Museum Advertise with Rapid River Magazine of the process. This is why each particular is $6 for adults and $5 for seniors, students progression of activities is referred to as a with ID and for children 4-15 (children age (828) 646-0071 “project” and the dates for each start with three and younger are admitted free). Mem- the inception of the idea and end with the bers are admitted free to the Museum. Free web links • Free ad design • Easy monthly billing completion of the piece.

January 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 5

Message from the Publisher Rapid River ® I’ve always found it kind of funny ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE how at the beginning of the year those who cringe at yet other birthday Established in 1997 • Volume Twelve, Number Five welcome in a new year with such an incredible amount of excitement. Distributed at over 390 locations throughout eight counties I do love the start of each year. in WNC and South Carolina There is something nice about being able to start anew, to be able to say “Okay, I forgive myself for all my Publisher/Editor: Dennis Ray January 2009 faults and weaknesses and will strive Managing Editor: Beth Gossett www.rapidrivermagazine.com to do better.” This is what January Art Director: Dennis Ray has come to mean to me — a month Print Production: Simone Bouyer to attempt to do anything and everything I have put off doing. I find it to Proofreader: Mary Wilson Inside be my most productive month as far Marketing: Dennis Ray as projects go. Staff Photographer: Dennis Ray 2 Fine Art Most of all I believe January is a Accounting: Sharon Cole Harrison Graham Ray, son of Dennis Ray. month to reflect on all that we have, Christo and Jeanne-Claude . . . . 2 and a month to dream of all that we Distribution: Dennis Ray Arts Council of Henderson Co. . 16 can become. In February we will be announcing the winners of our 2008 Poetry Heather Lewis ...... 17 Contest. We will also launch a new section, Downtown Asheville, a handy map Contributing Writers Focus Gallery ...... 19 pinpointing arts, dining, shopping, and other destinations and activites in down- H. Byron Ballard, Sierra Bicking, Gallery 86 ...... 19 town Asheville. Be sure to check that issue out. Jenny Bunn, Beth Carter, Jerry P. Cram ...... 20 Also, a quick reminder on the importance of advertising (that’s how we pay James Cassara, Amy Downs, the bills so bear with me on this one). It’s easy to want to pull the horns in and Alan Edwards, John Ellis, hope people magically buy your product or service, but a business has a very 5 Stage hard time generating income without letting people know they’re out there. Jim Faucett, Dr. Elaine Fox, Asheville Lyric Opera . . . 5 I’ve easily seen more than 100 local businesses who said they didn’t believe Rae Geoffrey, Beth Gossett, Southern Fried Chicks . . . . 6 in advertising, or those who spent too much on expensive adverting that didn’t Phil Hawkins, PamJ. Hecht, Aquila Theatre Company . . . . 7 do them much good, come and go during the past 12 years. Rapid River Maga- Janice Husk, Jill Ingram, Galumpha ...... 8 zine reaches over 35,000 readers every month and has almost a 100% pick-up Phil Juliano, Chip Kaufmann, Dublin Philharmonic Orchestra . . 8 rate. We are the most affordable and legitimate form of adverting in the area. Michelle Keenan, Valerie Leeper, Young Audience Series ...... 10 Give us a call, we can help. Peter Loewer, MariJo Moore, Asheville Community Theatre . . 12 April Nance, Michael Parker, HART's Feichter Studio ...... 12 To all of our readers, supporters, writers, and staff, Raphael Peter, Frank Polk, Lipizzaner Stallions ...... 33 I wish you all the best in 2009. Dennis Ray, Erin Scholze, ~ Dennis Ray, Publisher Rapid River Magazine Jonathan Scott, Donna Marie Music Todd, Kay Waldrop, Bill Walz, 11 Dehila Low ...... 11 Barbara Zaretsky, Steep Canyon Rangers . . . . 11 Kim Zdanowicz, Joe Zinich. David Bromberg ...... 15 Alejandro Escovedo ...... 38 INFO Sol Driven Train ...... 38 Peter Loewer Rapid River Art Magazine is Printmaker Graphos=Studio a free monthly publication. Address correspondence to: 13 Columns [email protected] James Cassara - Music . . . 16 or write to: H. Byron Ballard - Books . . . 22 MariJo Moore - Poetry . . . 23 Rapid River Art Magazine, 85 N. Main St.., Michael Parker - Wine ...... 29 Canton, NC 28716. Peter Loewer - Garden . . . 30 Bill Walz - Artful Living . . . 31 Phone: (828) 646-0071 Joe Zinich - Beer ...... 32 www.rapidrivermagazine.com All materials contained herein are Movie Reviews owned and copyrighted by Rapid 25 River Art Magazine and the individual contributors unless otherwise stated. 34 Classes PO Box 5039 ~ Asheville, NC 28813 Opinions expressed in this magazine UNCA Writing Program . . . . 34 email: [email protected] do not necessarily correspond with the John MacKah ...... 35 opinions of Rapid River Art Magazine 35 or the advertisers found herein. Cloth Fiber Workshop . . . © Rapid River Magazine, January 2009 Vol. 12 No. 5 36 What to Do Guide™ Best in Show by Phil Juliano. . . 37 Callie & Cats by Amy Downs . . . 37 Cover illustration by Dennis Ray. Corgi Tales by Phil Hawkins . . 37

January 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE COVER STORY Anniversary Concert

Three Metropolitan Opera performers. One opera legend. Three symphony orchestras.

hree choral programs represent- by Beth Carter ed by more than 80 singers. All on one stage in Asheville. Yes, Asheville. And for those who The Stage is Set Opera legend Soprano Baritone Tenor have ever longed to see a live Sherrill Milnes Angela Brown David Malis Tonio DiPaolo performance by a Metropolitan “For the anniversary TOpera singer but have not, this is your concert Dr. Robert Hart opportunity to do so in an architectural Baker and members of the Asheville America’s most promising Verdi sopra- followed by 12 years as a leading bari- setting that is reminiscent of the Italian Symphony Orchestra will return and no. She has appeared in The New York tone at the Metropolitan Opera. Malis city where opera began. be with us as they were at our inaugural Times, Oprah Magazine and Ebony. was also involved in ALO’s inaugural “We are bringing some of the biggest performance in 2000 when we co-pro- “Angela’s personal charm wins fans production of La Boheme. names in opera to Asheville,” said David duced La Boheme,” said Starkey. “We quickly,” said Starkey. “In this concert A highlight of the concert will be Craig Starkey, founder and General and are excited to have Dr. Baker to conduct setting where she has more opportunity an appearance by Sherrill Milnes who Artistic Director of the Asheville Lyric and lead the wealth of talent that will fill for audience interaction Asheville will will be presented with a special honor- Opera (ALO), which celebrates its tenth the stage that evening.” see why she is loved by so many audi- ary award from Asheville Mayor Terry year anniversary on Friday, January 30. “An opera highlights concert is a ences.” Bellamy. “This concert is set to rival operatic cel- lot of fun for people because, sonically David Malis, the first American to In his 40-plus year career as the ebrations of larger cities.” speaking, you get to hear something that win the prestigious Cardiff Singer of the international leading Verdi baritone, Asheville Lyric Opera’s Tenth Year approaches the type of music on the World Competition, began his operatic Anniversary Concert, to be held at the Met broadcast,” said Baker by phone career with the San Francisco Opera, ‘Asheville Lyric Opera’ continued on pg. 13 historical First Baptist from his home in Church in downtown York, PA, where he Asheville on Oak is music director of Street, will feature We are bringing some the York Sympho- Metropolitan Opera of the biggest names in ny and Harrisburg performers Soprano Choral Society. Angela Brown, Bari- opera to Asheville. “The Met has a tone David Malis, ~ David Craig Starkey huge orchestra and and Tenor Tonio a huge stage and DiPaolo. they can do some Each soloist will pretty spectacular perform favorite Italian arias. Members things. This anniversary concert will from the Lyric Opera Orchestra, Hen- give us a chance to give a concert with dersonville Symphony and the Asheville that amount of electricity and sheer Symphony Orchestra will perform sound to it.” under the direction of Dr. Robert Hart Tenor Toni DiPaolo is one of Baker. The Lyric Opera Chorus will three lead performers at the concert. be joined by the choruses of Mars Hill He believes a concert is a great way for College and Brevard College to create a newcomers to be introduced to opera. legend of over 80 voices on stage. “Without having to listen to a full opera, “This is truly a world class experi- they hear pieces that are very famous ence right here in the best of all small and popular,” he said. The connection cities,” said Starkey. “To have our anni- is also greater between the audience and versary performance at the historical and the performer. “When you are in full acoustically superb First Baptist Church costume and make-up, you are more of Asheville has added significance.” involved with your role and you stay in The church, designed by architect character. When in concert, you are out Douglas D. Ellington and completed in there to present yourself.” 1927, is one of Asheville’s great archi- DiPaolo, described as a rich tenor tectural treasures. “Ellington based the with comic gifts and sheer acting abil- design of the sanctuary space on the fa- ity, has performed throughout North mous cathedral and dome of Santa Ma- America and Europe on the stages of the ria del Fiore in Florence, Italy. What is Metropolitan Opera, Deutsche Oper interesting is that Santa Maria del Fiore Berlin, Canadian Opera Company, was built during the Renaissance period Houston Grand Opera, and Lyric Opera when opera was said to have originated of Chicago. in Florence. There is a tie between The powerhouse concert will also time, place and space as we perform at feature Angela Brown who made her First Baptist Church of Asheville.” Metropolitan Opera debut in 2004 to rave reviews and has been described as

Vol. 12, No. 5 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — January 2009 RAPID RIVER ARTS STAGE PREVIEW The Southern Fried Chicks Comedy Tour by John Ellis

he top- Tour’s Asheville grossing performances are all female made possible by comedy Special Attractions tour on the Series Sponsors road today, Michael & Catty Tthe Southern Fried Andry and Bank of Chicks, are where America, with addi- the Old South, the tional support from New South, and the Media Sponsor Deep South come WNC Magazine. together for an The Diana evening of non-stop Wortham Theatre laughter and clever at Pack Place is lo- story-telling. Life cated in the center and love in the USA of downtown Ashe- have never been ville on historic funnier than when Pack Square within these four original walking distance “desperate house- of many shops and wives” give their restaurants. The points of view. intimate The Southern theatre seats just Fried Chicks Come- over 500 and boasts dy Tour was inspired by the success of the exceptional acoustics and sightlines, mak- Comedy Stage franchise on the national ing it the premier performance space in all cable network, Country Music Television of Western North Carolina. The Main- (CMT). “Chicks” ringleader Etta May is a stage Series is supported by a grant from headline comic on CMT’s “CMT Com- the North Carolina Arts Council, a state edy Stage”, which is the second highest agency. The Mainstage Series 2008/2009 rated show in CMT history and ultimate- season sponsors are Asheville Citizen- ly led to the production of the Southern Times, Creative Energy, Laurey’s Cater- Fried Chicks Comedy Tour. Etta May is ing and Gourmet-to-go, and Renaissance often described as “Minnie Pearl with a Asheville Hotel. migraine.” The reigning queen of South- To obtain more information about ern sass, she won the prestigious Ameri- The Southern Fried Chicks Comedy can Comedy Awards’ “Stand-Up Comic Tour at Diana Wortham Theatre or to of the Year”, and has appeared on Oprah, purchase tickets (Regular $30; Senior Comic Strip Live, MTV, as a guest com- $28; Student $25; Children $10), call the mentator on CBS Sunday Morning, in theatre’s box office at (828) 257-4530 or several CMT specials, and is a regular on visit www.dwtheatre.com. Student Rush the syndicated Bob & Tom radio show tickets ($10 for students with valid I.D.) and on XM Radio’s comedy channels. are sold the day of the show, based on Joining Etta May for the Southern availability. Fried Chicks Comedy Tour are come- diennes Trish Suhr, Sonya White and Beth Donahue. Trish Suhr is a Kentucky www.southernfriedchickscomedytour.com native who left the family funeral business to become a stand up comedian. Suhr is the host and yard sale diva on the Style If Network’s hit show, Clean House. Sonya You The Southern Fried Chicks White is originally from Virginia but now Go: Comedy Tour starring Etta lives in Chicago, making her the “city May and featuring Trish Suhr, girl” of the Chicks. White has appeared Beth Donahue and Sonya on Last Comic Standing and is a featured White. Part of the Mainstage Special comedian on Verizon Wireless’s “Fun Attractions Series. and Games” mobile accessories option. Saturday, January 17, 7:00 p.m. and 9:30 Beth Donahue is a native from Nashville p.m. at the Diana Wortham Theatre at Pack and has appeared on VH-1’s Stand-Up Place. Tickets: Regular $30; Seniors $28; Spotlight With Rosie O’Donnell, Evening Students $25. Student Rush day-of-the- at the Improv and Showtime’s Comedy show (with valid ID) $10. Club Network. Box Office (828) 257-4530 or visit www. The Southern Fried Chicks Comedy dwtheatre.com

January 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE Performance Renowned Aquila Theatre Company in Back-to-Back Plays

quila Theatre Company is one by John Ellis Pre-Show of the foremost producers of touring theater and is widely Discussions: renowned for bringing a thor- ten years since it first toured the United Audience oughly modern sensibility to States. The Aquila Theatre Company’s A imaginative and exuberant production of members can great classics throughout the United attend free pre- States and abroad. Shakespeare’s classic comedy is a “must- performance Wonderfully vibrant and imaginative, see” for newcomers to Shakespeare and discussions in Aquila Theatre Company has been recog- Bard enthusiasts alike. Aquila’s smash hit The Forum at nized as a “classically trained, modernly has played extended engagements in New Pack Place at 7:00 hip troupe, ” by theatre reviewers of The York, Boston, Los Angeles and, Europe. p.m. before both New York Times. Over the past several Brilliant comedy abounds in this performances. The Mainstage Series seasons, Asheville audi- witty take of mistaken identity, assumed January 30 The ences have come to know and anticipate personas, hilarious machinations and Iliad pre-show dis- the annual repertory offering of this cre- whimsical family ties. Shakespeare expert- cussion is hosted ative company. With superb acting, clever ly weaves these boisterously entertaining by Dr. Mario staging, and innovative takes on strong strands together allowing his audience to DiCesare, former “No one who sees the rousing production scripts, Aquila makes classical theatre stay one step ahead of his characters and Professor at the by the excellent Aquila Theatre will forget a whit of it.” fresh and accessible. laugh heartily at the outrageous results. State University of ~ The New York Times on Aquila’s “The Comedy of Errors” On January 30, Aquila presents The The New Yorker qualifies, “The Clas- New York. Iliad: Homer’s epic story of Achilles and sics made relevant with superb acting and The moderator for the January 31 made possible by Mainstage Theatre the Trojan War, and undoubtedly one clever staging.” The Comedy of Errors Series Sponsors UBS and Drs. Lee & of the greatest works in world literature. pre-show discussion is Mario DiCesare. Additional support for The story of a disparate group of soldiers still to be announced. In The Iliad is made possible by Perfor- and refugees taking refuge from a savage addition to its evening mance Sponsors Gary & Patty Coleman. war and finding solace and humanity, performances, Aq- The Iliad has had a profound influence uila Theatre Company on every generation since its first per- presents The Iliad for formance by ancient Greek bards in the If students and teach- Mediterranean over 2500 years ago. u The Aquila Theatre Com- ers as part of the Diana Yo Aquila’s production is inspired by the pany, directed by Peter Mei- Wortham Theatre Young Go: cover of Stanley Lombardo’s translation, neck, presents Homer’s “The Audience Series, 10 a.m. entitled Into the Jaws of Death: a photo- Iliad,” 8 p.m. Friday, January Friday, January 30. graph of the D-Day landings. Described 30, and Shakespeare’s “The Comedy The Aquila Theatre by The New York Times as “A perfor- of Errors,” 8 p.m. Saturday, January 31. Company’s performance of staggering power,” the Aquila At Diana Wortham Theatre at Pack Place mances of The Iliad Theatre Company’s production of Hom- in downtown Asheville. Tickets: Regular and The Comedy of er’s Iliad creates a “stunning, stirring, and $32; Senior $30; Student $27. Call the box Errors are presented in memorable” theatrical experience. office at (828) 257-4530 or visit www.dw- partnership with UNC On January 31, Aquila’s presents theatre.com. Student Rush tickets ($10 for Asheville Cultural and Shakespeare’s The Comedy of Errors, students with valid I.D.) are sold the day of “If you see only one piece of theatre this year – Special Events, and are the show, based on availability. a sensational new revival that celebrates see Aquila’s Iliad.” ~ Backstage

ACDT: Celebrating 30 Years of Modern Dance 5 choreographers, 22 dancers, 48 community will adjudicate the concert hours… See what happens when five and award the top three pieces with choreographers of different genres of cash prizes and offer the top two pieces movement are challenged to create a the chance to be performed again in a piece of choreography for dancers they Tropicana Cabaret later in the spring. may have never worked with before in What happens when a break- only 48 hours. dancer has to choreograph a piece for The first annual 48 Hour Dance modern dancers and salsa dancers? Project, sponsored in part by the Ashe- What happens when a salsa dancer has ville Area Arts Council, puts five local to create a piece for hip hop artists? dance artists up to this challenge. The Come enjoy this fun, creative, and five completed (or not so completed) rowdy experiment in movement. pieces will be performed on Sunday, At the BeBe Theater in downtown February 1 at 7 p.m. Asheville. $12 for everyone. For more To add to the fun of this project, information or to purchase tickets call three judges who are avid watchers (828) 254-2621. and fans of dance from the Asheville

Vol. 12, No. 5 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — January 2009 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE STAGE PREVIEW Muscle and Merriment Combine in Acrobatic Troupe Galumpha

ormed in 2002 by dancers Andy by John Ellis also creates the year of a Binghamton University Theatre Horowitz and Greg O’Brien company’s costumes major. Additionally, she received first (Asheville audiences will recognize and props. place in competitive Women’s Sparring at them from Second Hand Dance), Velcro on “The Late Marlon Torres the International World Championships Galumpha is a three-performer Show with David joined Galumpha in Cardiff, Wales for the martial art Tang ensemble including Horowitz, Letterman”, “Crook in 2002 and co-cre- Soo Do. MarlonF Torres and Erin Stanley. and Chase” (TNN), ated the work The Galumpha’s Asheville performances Combining stunning acrobatics, strik- and the 2002 MDA Cellar Door with are made possible by Performance Sponsor ing visual effects, physical comedy and in- Jerry Lewis Tele- Horowitz and Greg Henry LaBrun and Special Attractions Se- ventive, world-class choreography, Galum- thon, and the work O’Brien. He has ries Sponsors Michael & Catty Andry and pha brings to life a world of imagination, Clackers as seen on performed lead Bank of America, with additional support beauty, muscle and merriment through a MTV, Showtime, dance roles on stages from Media Sponsor WNC Magazine. fast-paced, athletic brand of movement, A&E, and the show throughout the distinctive for its ingenuity. A triumphant Just for Laughs in Americas, Europe Montreal. mix of art and entertainment, Galumpha and Asia. Torres is a www.galumpha.com is a recipient of the coveted Edinburgh Andy Horowitz regular guest dancer Festival Critics’ Choice Award. is a co-founder of with the Fokine Hailed as “a giddy balancing act” by Galumpha; he has Ballet Company in If The Washington Post, and as “prepos- been performing and New York, is on the “Galumpha,” part of the creating choreogra- You terous, wonderful stuff” by The Boston teaching faculty of Go: Mainstage Special Attractions Globe, Galumpha creates a sensory feast phy since 1982 when North Carolina Arts Series, Friday & Saturday, of images ranging from the ridiculous to he was an undergraduate at Binghamton in Action, and was accepted to train at the January 23 & 24, 8 p.m. at the the sublime, drawn together into a seam- University. Horowitz has had varied roles National Dance Institute’s Teacher Artist Diana Wortham Theatre at Pack Place. that exploit his physical talents, includ- less whole, consistently bringing audienc- Training Program. Tickets: Regular $30; Seniors $28; Students es to their feet. Viewed by over one billion ing performing in Kung Fu movies and Erin Stanley has performed with $25. Student Rush day-of-the-show (with viewers around the globe, television working as a Wild West stunt rider. Adept Galumpha since 2005. A well-rounded valid ID) $10. Box Office (828) 257-4530 or performance highlights include the work with working with his hands, Horowitz performer and teacher, she is in her senior visit www.dwtheatre.com.

Dublin Philharmonic Orchestra Europe’s Preeminent Musicians, Soloists and Composers

he Dublin Philharmonic Orches- Orchestra is in the midst of their inaugu- tra brings together the finest Irish ral 49 concert tour of the United States and European orchestral musi- of America, including this January 31st in cians with Irish and International Asheville. Bravo is proud to bring one of Tsoloists, conductors, and composers to the superlative symphonies of the world celebrate our shared musical heritage and right here to Western North Carolina for pursue performance excellence in the an evening of Brahms and Beethoven. tradition of classical and contemporary In addition to this performance, symphonic music. Bravo includes a complimentary thirty- The Dublin Philharmonic Orchestra minute educational lecture regarding the was initially formed in the mid 1800’s performance one-hour prior to the show. and gave regular concerts throughout the This lecture will be led by Dr. Vance capital city until the late 1930’s, at which Reese and will take place in the Banquet point there was a cessation of activities Hall of the Civic Center. with the advent of World War Two. For more information about Asheville In 1997 The Dublin Philharmonic Bravo Concerts or this performance please Orchestra was reconstituted under the call (828) 225-5887 and visit us on the web guidance of Music Director Derek Glee- at www.ashevillebravoconcerts.org. son, drawing its members from the finest orchestral musicians in not only Ireland but all of Europe. The second incarnation of The Dublin Philharmonic Orchestra If gave its premier concert during the 1997 You Presented by Asheville Bravo Kilkenny Arts Festival at the great 13th Go: Concerts century Norman cathedral “St. Canices,” Saturday, January 31 at 7:30 in the ancient city of Kilkenny. The p.m. in the Thomas Wolfe orchestra has recorded classical and con- Auditorium, Asheville, NC. temporary repertoire for numerous major Tickets: $20-$50, through Ticketmaster at record companies, as well as a plethora of www.ticketmaster.com , The Civic Center scores for motion pictures and television. Box Office, or by calling (828) 225-5887. Currently, The Dublin Philharmonic Students receive half-price seating.

January 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 5 Vol. 12, No. 5 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — January 2009 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE STAGE PREVIEW

The Diana Wortham Theatre At Pack Place Announces its 2009 School Show Series for Young Audiences

iana Wortham Theatre’s School 2009 School Show Series by Rae Geoffrey Show Series serves more than 5,000 students and teachers every season – stretching minds, January 30 Theatre is an exhilarating and “soul-stir- Aquila Theatre Company presents working imaginations and ring” dance company presenting D The Iliad • $10 deepening learning. The popular School a spectrum of works that are Show Series provides professionally pro- The Iliad has had a profound influ- multicultural, intergenera- duced, curriculum-related performances ence on every generation since its first tional, socially and visually for thousands of young people each year performance by ancient Greek bards appealing to all audiences. complete with study guides and a post- in the Mediterranean over 2,500 years Eleone’s works of dance show question and answer period. ago. Aquila’s innovative production tells inspire critical, intellectual Tickets / Reservations: Ticket pricing the main parts of the story in an action thought and requires the information for students is listed based packed hour and a half show combining community to look at both on the performance. Teachers and bus ritualistic movement, original music, and historical and contemporary issues drivers are free with groups of 10 or more. superb acting. 10 a.m. Recommended for from a variety of viewpoints. The Y.E.S. (Youth Education Scholarship) grades 6 and up. 10 a.m. Recommended for all Luna Negra Fund provides need-based scholarships to ages and grades. Dance Theater cover the cost of admission for students February 5 and schools; limited scholarships avail- Eleone Dance Theatre • $6 March 4-6 able by application for students on free or The Philadelphia–based Eleone Dance The Emperor’s New Clothes • $6 reduced lunch programs. A new Diana Wortham Theatre produc- The Diana Wortham Theatre at Pack tion! Laugh with Peter, the mischievous Place is located in the center of down- tailor, as he comes up with his sure-fire town Asheville on historic Pack Square get rich quick scheme to embarrass the within walking distance of many shops National Biblical Storytellers to Present vain Emperor and make off with a basket and restaurants. The intimate theatre of gold. Full of action, music, magic tricks seats just over 500 and boasts excep- and well-integrated audience participa- tional acoustics and sightlines, making “Favorite Bible Stories” tion this play is a hit with students and it the premier performance space in all teachers. Area students attending The of Western North Carolina. The School Emperor’s New Show Series for iblical storytell- Clothes are eligible Young Audiences ers from across the for free in-school is presented in country will present workshops, directed partnership with a concert of Favorite by actor-educators The Center for B Bible Stories at the from the production. Diversity Education Black Mountain Center for 10 a.m Recommend- at UNC-Asheville, the Arts on Sunday, Febru- ed for grades K-5. and is sponsored by ary 1, 2009 at 7 p.m. Target and by Don The storytellers are March 20 and Nancy Acker- members of the Network Luna Negra Dance mann Cole. of Biblical Storytellers, Theater • $6 To obtain more International, an ecumeni- Luna Negra’s Stu- information on the cal organization made up of School Show Series both clergy and laity from Kathy Culmer Lynn White dent Matinee Pro- gram offers students or to make reserva- across the United States, “Nate the Great.” Left to right: Katt tions, contact Rae will be told by Kathy Culmer who a memorable and Africa, Canada, Australia, and Scotland. Leisy, Kyra Lorraine Selman, Vincent Geoffrey, Director works with the Diocese of Texas; and meaningful intro- The storytellers are presenting this Ortega. Photo by Joan Marcus. of Outreach and The Marriage of Isaac from the book of duction to dance and concert to introduce western NC to Education, at (828) biblical storytelling and to give people Genesis, which will be told by Shelley Latino culture, giving students of all backgrounds an aware- 257-4544 x307, or e-mail rae@dwtheatre. a taste of the art form in advance of the Gnade of Wilmington, DE. com. You can also visit the Teacher’s Page 2009 International Festival Gathering The concert will also feature music ness and appreciation of the richness and diversity of Latino culture and of the arts link at www.dwtheatre.com. For informa- of Biblical Storytellers, which will be by storyteller and singer Donna Marie tion about donating to the Y.E.S. (Youth held near Black Mountain at Ridgecrest Todd, and acoustic musicians perform- through dance. 10 a.m Recommended for all ages and grades. Education Scholarship) Fund, look for the (NC) Conference Center this August. ing old time hymns. Get Involved link at www.dwtheatre.com. Stories to be featured at the concert include the entire book of Jonah, which If May 11 will be told by the Network’s president, You Black Mountain Center Theatreworks USA presents the Rev. Dr. Lynn White, a Disciples of for the Arts, 225 W. State Nate the Great • $6 Go: St., Black Mountain, NC If Christ pastor from Georgia; the story Young Audiences learn about team- You 2009 School Show Series for of the Samaritan woman told by the Sunday, February 1, 2009 work and friendship (imaginary and Go: Young Audiences. Network of Biblical Storytellers’ Vice - 7 p.m. Suggested Donation of $10. otherwise) in this new musical based January-May, 2009 at the Di- President, Dina Ferguson of Manhat- For more information, contact the Black on the first volume in Marjorie Wein- ana Wortham Theatre at Pack tan Beach, CA.; the story of the Hebrew Mountain Center for the Arts at (828) man Sharmat’s classic book series. Two Place. Tickets/Reservations: Call (828) boys from the book of Daniel, which 669-0930. shows: 10 a.m. and 12 noon. Recom- 257-4544 x307, or visit www.dwtheatre.com. mended for grades 1-5.

10 January 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE Music

Dehlia Low Performs 2nd Annual Echo Early Music Festival at Jack of the Wood on January 30 The Echo Early Music Festival will renowned performers complement our present The Golden Age: Music of Eng- weekly concerts in Asheville and David- ehlia Low is a by Erin Scholze land, January 30 - February 28, 2009. son and outreach concerts around the young Ashe- This year, over five weekends region. Performers include the Farallon ville based band spanning the month of February, the Recorder Quartet, Muses’ Delight, Car- focused on over here, every festival’s concerts will focus on early olina Pro Musica, Pastyme, Ian Howell, D early bluegrass, one of us…we’ve chamber music from England. Audi- countertenor, and Tableau Baroque. country, and original had more re- ences will enjoy repertoire written in More information online at www. music. Their songs feature quests for it than the time of Elizabeth I and Shakespeare eemf.net or call (828) 505-2858. Please honest, hard-hitting vocals any other disk in and continuing through the following help spread the word about the festival, with tight harmonies the past year and two centuries. and consider joining our Friends of backed by masterful dobro a half. It’s a hit Several workshops by nationally Early Music. and mandolin playing, record....fresh.... lively fiddling, solid guitar, and a boom- solid songwriting and the vocal duet is ing upright bass. Dehlia Low performs what gets them. It’s the thing folks ask.... original songs as well as classic and mod- ‘Who’s that singing?’” ~ Dennis Jones, ern bluegrass and old country numbers WNCW 88.7 FM influenced strongly by Hazel Dickens, the Dehlia Low’s 8-song EP was released Stanley Brothers, James King, and others. in February 2008 at The Garage at Bilt- Dehlia Low came together – as many more. It was recoded at Ticknock studio bands in Asheville do – through the rich in Lenoir, NC. The disk features five local bluegrass jam scene. The band was original vocal and instrumental built around the incredible vocal har- tunes. monies of Anya and Stacy, who met in If early 2007. The band quickly grew and u Dehlia Low, Friday, January Dehlia had her first show in August 2007 Yo 30 at Jack of the Wood, 95 Pat- at the Grey Eagle in Asheville. Since then, Go: ton Ave, Asheville, NC. Show Dehlia Low has been incredibly busy begins 9:30 p.m. 21+ Tickets: performing regionally and nationally and $5. For more information call (828) released an 8-song EP in February. 252-5445, visit www.sonicbids.com/dehl- “We’ve fallen in love with this cd ialow, or www.myspace.com/dehlialow Steep Canyon Rangers

at the Orange Peel by James Cassara

estern North Carolina favor- They’ve shared a stage with such artists as ites, The Steep Canyon Rang- Doc Watson, Peter Rowan, Rhonda Vin- ers, like to think of themselves cent & the Rage, Donna the Buffalo, and as a band of young souls who Norman Blake. W play old-time bluegrass music, North Carolina festival appearances extolling the virtues of the past while keep- have included the Doc Watson Festival, ing a clear eye on the future. Bluegrass under the Elm, the Eno River The quintet formed during the late Festival, and the Brushy Mountain Jam- ‘90s. Responding to a restaurant’s call boree. They’ve played major festivals in for bluegrass entertainment for a weekly Tennessee and Colorado (including the shindig, the band members – Elizabeth prestigious Rocky Mountain Bluegrass “Lizzie” Hamilton on fiddle, Charles Fest) and have toured extensively here Humphrey III on bass, guitarist Woody and abroad. Platt, banjo player Graham Sharp, and In short, the Steep Canyon Rangers mandolin player Mike Guggino – quickly have become nearly synonymous with discovered a shared love of traditional mu- the contemporary Bluegrass scene. But sic recast into a more modern setting. they’ve never strayed far from their local That performance led to their as- pedigree nor forgotten those fans who sociation with Newgrass Revival pro- have helped propel them along. With that ducer Curtis Burch, who helped secure in mind any showing of The the band some studio time and guided Steep Canyon Rangers is their self financed debut Old Dreams and If indeed a special treat. New Dreams. Following its well received u The Steep Canyon Rang- release the band put together their follow Yo ers (with Larry Keel) Friday, up, Mr. Taylor’s New Home in 2002. Go: January 16 at the Orange Since that time the group has become Peel in Asheville. Visit www. a mainstay of the Bluegrass circuit, playing theorangepeel.net for show times and numerous festivals and countless venues. ticket information.

Vol. 12, No. 5 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — January 2009 11 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE STAGE PREVIEW

Shakespeare, Slapstick, and Men in Dresses: by Jenny Bunn Asheville Community Theatre Opens Leading Ladies! sheville Community Theatre Leading Ladies is directed by Michael Lilly, who will open the side-splitting staged the summer comedy I Hate Hamlet for Ashe- comedy Leading Ladies by Ken ville Community Theatre. Leading Ladies stars Steve Ludwig on Friday, January 16 at Wilde and Brad Pearsall as Leo and Jack. Also appearing A 8 p.m. are ACT veterans Shirley Cohen, Chris Martin, and In Leading Ladies, two English Mike Vaniman as well as Drew Collins, Zoe Renert, Shakespearean actors, Jack and Leo, find and Brooke Whitcomb who are making their ACT de- themselves so down on their luck that buts. The set is designed by Don Baker, with lighting they are performing “Scenes from Shake- design by Rob Bowen, and costume design by Ida. speare” on the Moose Lodge circuit in Performances will run for three weekends through the Amish country of Pennsylvania. February 1, 2009. Opening weekend of Leading Ladies When they read about a rich old will feature several special events, all of which are woman in a nearby town, who is about included in the price of a ticket. to die and leave her fortune to Max and Steve, her two, long-lost relatives whom no one has seen since birth, they de- If cide to impersonate the two men. Once You Leading Ladies, a comedy by Ken Ludwig, their plan is hatched, they realize that Go: Directed by Michael Lilly “Max and Steve” is short for “Maxine Meg (Brooke Whitcomb, center) enjoys the attention from traveling January 16 – February 1, with performanc- and Stephanie,” and they must appear as actor Leo (Steve Wilde, left) as she gets to know her long lost es Friday and Saturday nights at 8 p.m. and nieces instead of nephews if they’re to “cousin” Maxine (also played by Steve Wilde, right). Sunday afternoons at 2:30 p.m. Asheville Community collect the loot. Theatre, 35 E. Walnut Street, Asheville, NC. Three special events are planned during the open- will nibble on a variety of delectable desserts before Tickets: $22 for adults, $19 for college students and ing weekend of Leading Ladies. The Opening Night enjoying the show. And on Sunday, January 18 the seniors (60+), $12 for children (17 & under). Special Champagne Reception begins at 7:30 p.m. on Fri- Q&A Matinee will spotlight the director and members discounts for groups of 10 or more. Box Office hours are day, January 16 and will feature complimentary hors of the cast in a talk-back session immediately after the 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. d’oeuvres and a glass of bubbly prior to curtain. show. All Leading Ladies special events are included in For more information call (828) 254-1320, or visit www. Saturday, January 17 is Sweet Saturday – patrons the price of a ticket. ashevilletheatre.org.

Haywood Arts Regional Theater presents Each winter the folks at HART shift their attention to the small Feichter Studio Theater stage to present some of the finest drama in 2009 Feichter Studio Theater the region. The productions are so popular the shows are regularly held over and sell out, so Ladyhouse Blues her four daughters. As the play unfolds it even though the seating is general admission, is apparent that 1919 is a watershed year By Kevin O’Morrison in America’s history. reservations are recommended. Directed by Susan Rudniak There are hints of the country head- ing uncertainly towards a new and differ- January 9, 10 at 7:30, January 11 at 3 p.m. ent way of life. Each of Liz’s daughters face Dr. James Scattergood, Trinity Col- a shy withdrawn freshman with a crush Hold over dates: January 16, 17, 18. different challenges, some with exciting lege Professor of Medieval Romances is on a graduate co-ed. What follows are Featuring: Teresa Breaky, Emily Warren, prospects, others with little ahead. This is also known on campus as Dr. Love. Enter unexpected twists as the advice from Dr. Shanda Jacobs, Adrienne Mollette and a lovely and powerfully atmospheric play Love reveals unexpected consequences. Ashley Millett that the New York Times said “has the It is St. Louis in 1919 and five wom- haunting quality of Chekov.” en are gathered awaiting the return of the “There is something warm If family’s men from the war. The central Scattergood u The Feichter Studio is lo- and delighting in the Yo character is Liz a widowed woman and Go: cated backstage in the Per- By Anto Howard relationship between the forming Arts Center at the Directed by Julie Kinter Shelton House, 250 Depot St. two men, as if Don Quixote January 23, 24 at 7:30, in downtown Waynesville. January 25 at 3 p.m. Hold over dates: were passing along his Reservations can be made by calling (828) A lovely and powerfully January 30, 31 and February 1. Quixoticness to the next 456-6322. Tickets are $8 for all adults and atmospheric play… ~ NY Times $5 for all students. Productions are uncen- Featuring: Steve Lloyd, Sean Bruce, and generation.” sored so if adult content is indicated patrons Becky Harper. should exercise personal discretion.

12 January 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE STAGE PREVIEW

Morning’s at Seven Asheville Community Theatre’s senior charming comedy where we meet four theatre group, The Autumn Players, sisters in a small Midwestern town in and the University of North Carolina 1938, their husbands, and offspring. Center for Creative Retirement partner Performance will be held Sunday, Janu- to present Paul Osborn’s Morning’s at ary 11 at 2:30 p.m. at the Reuter Center Seven, a marvelously life affirming play. on the UNCA campus. Tickets are Two houses, whose backyards adjoin, $5. For more information visit www. set the scene for this buoyant and ashevilletheatre.org.

‘Asheville Lyric Opera’ continued from pg. 5

Milnes conquered the great opera his career and share video highlights and capitals of the world, sang more than personal insights in what promises to be 650 performances at the Metropolitan a fascinating lecture for opera lovers. Opera, received three Grammy awards, Following the lecture, Milnes will and had the honor of performing for hold a master class for six of the area’s every United States President in the last top vocal students where he will work 40 years. His remarkable voice, artistic one-on-one to hone their vocal tech- integrity, commanding stage presence, nique, stage presence and acting. The and rugged handsomeness have made event is sponsored by Brevard and Mars him a favorite for all audiences. Hill Colleges’ Music Departments. The Now an international lecturer on public is invited to both of these events. opera and a master class instructor for The cost is $20 at the door. the next generation of opera performers, Milnes will offer a guest lecture at Looking Ahead AB Tech’s Ferguson Auditorium the day following the concert. He will discuss Since its inception in 1999 ALO has produced 30 full scale opera productions including Madame Butterfly, Don Giovanni, La Traviata, Barber of Seville, Free Tickets and Carmen. ALO has its own orchestra and chorus to support its productions Any WNC resident who has not and is the only touring opera company heard a live performance by a Met- in the nation. Their educational out- ropolitan Opera singer is invited to reach program has introduced opera to enter to win free tickets to Asheville over 10,000 school age children. For Lyric Opera’s Tenth Year Anniver- Starkey, this is just the beginning. sary Concert and the Pre-Concert “We take seriously our commitment Fundraiser to be held January 30. to investing in our community and Submit 250 words or less describing helping people understand that opera why you want to attend the perfor- is for anybody who appreciates music. mance or why you believe opera is That is no small feat,” said Starkey. “We important for WNC. do this by producing classical works that Submit entries by email to info@ honor the opera tradition and contract- ashevillelyric.org or by postal mail to ing with the most talented performers ALO, 2 South Pack Square, Asheville, possible for our stage. We want to be NC 28801. Entries must be received the best small professional opera com- by 5 p.m. on Monday, January 12, pany in the southeast.” 2009. Three winners will be notified on Friday, January 16. Include your name, address, If telephone number and email ad- u Asheville Lyric Opera’s an- dress. Each entrant will receive a Yo niversary concert performance buy-one-get-one-free coupon for Go: at the First Baptist Church of Friday’s concert that can be re- Asheville. Tickets are being deemed directly through Thomas sold through the Diana Wortham The- Wolfe Auditorium ((828) 251-5505 atre box office (828) 257-4530, or call the or www.ticketmaster.com). Asheville Lyric Opera (828) 236-0670.

Vol. 12, No. 5 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — January 2009 13 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE MUSIC

January CD Reviews by James Cassara

Let’s start off the New Year in good fashion, with an assortment of music most readily found at one of Asheville’s local independent record stores. These are the folks who most deserve our support and appreciation for bringing it all back home.

The Nightwatchman next it swerves elsewhere. remain true to their tradition. All of which The Fabled City It’s a huge step forward for gives optimism to a future which might Morello, a gamble of sorts well fulfill Marino’s promise and truly Red Ink Records that pays off in huge divi- pays tribute to the era she so loves. **1/2 Rage Against the Ma- dends, especially when you chine guitarist Tom Morello’s least expect it. **** latest folk rock entry (under Tracy Chapman the assumed alter ego Night- Our Bright Future watchman) is a radical leap Diane Marino Two decades after her debut album from his previous Watchman Just Groovin’ propelled her to stardom not much in outings. The Fabled City M & M Music Tracy Chapman’s oeuvre has changed. stands in sharp contrast to 2007’s sparsely Singer Diane Marino is a proud While the confessional singer/songwriter arranged One Man Revolution, a distinc- throwback to an era of cocktail jazz and has occasionally stretched her trade- tion which can be largely attributed to the elegantly arranged pop songs. Her voice mark sound with various producers and presence of producer Brendan O’Brien. is as smooth as good bourbon over ice support players, the essential nature of O’Brien – best known for his work and as buoyant as wading through a cool her music – a starkly reflective socially with Pearl Jam and his long association stream on a summer’s day, an inflection engaged optimism tinged with a bit of with Bruce Springsteen – brings to the occupying a space somewhere betwixt Di- melancholy – remains largely the same. plate impeccable musical credentials and nah Washington and Shirley Bassey, with That’s not to say she’s not grown a clear desire to move Morello beyond a bit of Dionne Warwick tucked carefully and matured as mere voice and guitar. into the mix. an artist – cer- As a story teller Morello shares much Just Groovin’ is her tribute to the tainly her best with both Springsteen and John Mel- 1960’s, and while Marino is clearly be- songs are more lencamp. These are tales of ordinary folks holden to that decade (aren’t we all?) the nuanced than struggling through difficult times, an album, which certainly does capture the before while American landscape that, through no fault groove of that most imaginative of times, the concerns of their own, has left them down and out. never fully stakes an identity of its own. they express are No grandiose songs or slogans, just That’s in part due to Marino’s over reli- different from casual, and often piercing narratives that ance on style over substance. those of the demonstrate a remarkable growth in Mo- The arrangements on the album twenty year old rello’s songwriting; he may be speaking in are lush, swirling, evocative, but largely who wrote them – but Chapman’s over his own voice but unlike its predecessors predictable: a piano-based jazz accom- reliance on mid-tempo acoustic oriented The Fabled City is filled with people who paniment leading to a similar-sounding songs, however well crafted, has begun to we know and whose wounds we share. horn solo again giving way to piano and wear thin. As a producer O’Brien knows how fade out. The soloists, which include Kirk Our Bright Future seeks to change to flesh out each song, avoiding Morello’s Whalum and that and while producer Larry Klein, tendency towards bombast in favor of a Houston Per- best known for transforming the sounds more subtle and – in the long run – satis- son, are laud- of Joni Mitchell, does tinker with the fying examination of the themes that run able, and play formula, the overall effect seems more a throughout the album. This simpatico is their parts mild tremor rather than the major shake reflected in the instrumentation; small with expected up Chapman could use. What it does do drum kits sit alongside pedal steel, Ham- precision. well is hearken back to the early ‘70s. The mond organ, and cello, but rarely does However presence of drummer Steve Gadd and one instrument overpower another. the song to guitarist Dean Parks add an intriguing The sonic textures shift as steadily song ap- veneer to the disc but, with the notable as do the tempos; just when things begin proach is exception of the delightful cabaret of “I settling into a predictable groove Morello so similar Did It All,” much of Our Bright Future throws in a surprise or two. His acoustic that after a few listens the songs become could easily have been plucked from any six string and bass are pumped to the nearly indistinguishable. It’s only when of Chapman’s earlier discs. frontline for “Whatever It Takes,” an ur- Marino and producer Gary Dales step out It’s a well crafted, heartfelt effort gent first person narrative about a soldier that the music truly becomes interesting. passionately sung and impeccably per- who struggles against despair and resigna- The duet with Felix Cavaliere (who sang formed. Chapman’s talents are as clearly tion, while against the Biblical imagery the original) on “Groovin’” is a nostalgic evident, but ultimately the album offers of “Lazarus on Down” cello and nylon- delight, along with Cavaliere’s Hammond little in the way of adventure or surprise. string guitar gently cushion the song’s B-3 organ solo. And Anthony LaMarchi- It straddles a fine line between showcas- urgency. This sense of dynamics – quiet na’s cello on “Never My Love” breaks the ing the artist’s strengths and revealing her moments of introspection nuanced with monotony of saxophone/trumpet/saxo- limitations, and ultimately leans too far volatile instrumental mixes – makes for a phone. towards the bad side of that equation for fascinating listen. Yet despite its flaws there is much her, and our, own good. **1/2 Every time you think you’ve pegged about this album to love. Marino is a disci- where The Fabled City might take you plined and nuanced vocalist and the songs ‘CD’s’ continued on next pg.

14 January 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE WHAT'S HAPPENING

Master Roots Musician David Bromberg in Concert by Alan Edwards

avid Bromberg, one of Ameri- of the female trio approach to gui- ist-in-residence program; David estab- ca’s foremost folk-blues-roots Angel Band, which tar-playing earned lished David Bromberg Fine Violins, a musicians for over four decades, often performs with him the occasional retail store and repair shop for high qual- will play the first Asheville Bromberg and vice paying gig, and lots ity instruments, and also leads regular D show of his career on Thursday, versa, on electric bass of employment as a jam sessions for area musicians. January 15. Bromberg’s “Try Me One and backing vocals, backing musician for The revitalized Bromberg subse- More Time” CD, issued by Appleseed with Mitch Corbin Tom Paxton and Jerry quently returned to the recording scene Recordings in February 2007, was his first on acoustic guitar, Jeff Walker, among with “Try Me One More Time,” an release in 17 years and was rewarded with mandolin and fiddle. others. He became a acoustic album of solo folk-blues mate- a Grammy nomination as the year’s “Best Bromberg, raised “hired gun” guitarist rial, and has reclaimed his reputation Traditional Folk Recording.” in Tarrytown, NY, for recording sessions, as a hugely entertaining live attraction, Vocalist/guitarist/multi-instrumen- started studying guitar playing on hundreds interspersing his eclectic repertoire and talist Bromberg, a popular solo artist and at the age of 13 and of records by artists virtuoso musicianship with wonderfully band-leader who first earned his reputa- eventually enrolled including Dylan, Link droll between-songs commentary. tion as a noted session musician for art- in Columbia Univer- Wray, The Eagles, ists ranging from Dylan to Dion, retired sity as a musicology Ringo Starr, Willie from recording and extensive touring in major. The call of the Nelson, and Carly If 1980 but was reinvigorated by his come- Greenwich Village Simon. Several tracks You David Bromberg will back CD’s popular and critical success, folk scene in the mid- which he produced o: perform at The Orange and he has returned to the road. ’60s drew David to for Bob Dylan in the G Peel, located at 101 Bilt- Earlier this year, Appleseed released the downtown clubs early ‘90s have just more Avenue, at 8 p.m. on an archival “Live New York City 1982” and coffeehouses, where he could watch surfaced on Dylan’s “Tell Tale Signs: Thursday, January 15. Tickets for album by Bromberg’s bluegrass quartet, and learn from performers such as his Bootleg Series Vol. 8” release. this over-18 show cost $18 in advance, $20 one of several lineups he performs with. inspiration and teacher, the Reverend In recent years, Bromberg and his at the door. For more information, please He’ll be backed up at The Orange Peel Gary Davis. wife relocated to Wilmington, Del., visit the www.theorangepeel.net website or by his wife, Nancy Josephson, leader Bromberg’s sensitive and versatile where they became part of the city’s art- call (828) 225-5851.

‘CD’s’ continued lection for glossy synthesiz- McCoy Tyner ing with Derek Trucks may seem er-pop is kept to a minimum Guitars a convenient way of introducing – the sound is more textured Tyner’s music to a new generation Half Note Sam Phillips and gritty than ever. but, with the exception of “Slap- Don’t Do Anything If you’re looking for While McCoy back Blues” the two seem uncom- Nonesuch Records Don’t Do Anything to be the Tyner will likely not fortable with each other. “Sam Phillips confessional be labeled a “guitar- Scofield is clearly the most Back when she was ist’s best friend” he’s the singer known as Leslie break up album” you’ll likely comfortable partner, swinging easi- be disappointed. She’s far actually employed ly through “Mr. P.C.” and playfully Phillips, T Bone Burnett a number of superb was already helping guide too astute and accomplished sliding between the rhythmic lines a songwriter for that. players over the years. of “Blues on the Corner.” Surpris- the musical career of the He is, along with Bill Evans, the most future Sam Phillips. He Instead she gives us a ingly, Bela Fleck is among the most com- glimpse of heartache, heard best in “Little influential jazz pianist in the past 50 years. patible of Tyner’s cohorts: “Tradewinds” produced her 1987 release The Turning His work with John Abercrombie on after Phillips adopted her nickname Sam, Plastic Life” and while such lyrics as “I integrates a delightful Middle Eastern thought if he understood he wouldn’t the fabled 4 x 4 sessions was phenomenal, progression while Tyner really cuts loose and began expanding into the world of ef- as was the acoustic guitarist coupling with fervescent pop. treat me this way” (from “No Explana- on the fiery “Amberjack”. tions”), suggest incidences of betrayal and Earl Klugh for the Inner Voices record- The pair of songs with Frisell merges Unfortunately, by the time Phil- ings. Ted Dunbar was in the group for lips’ 2004 album, A Boot and a Shoe, broken promises, those themes have al- together as one in Boubacar (a tribute to ways been woven throughout her music. Asante, and Carlos Santana joined Tyner the world guitarist Boubacar Traore) be- was releasead, Phillips and Burnett, who for the bravely executed but ill-conceived were husband and wife as well as musi- As with all her best efforts the lyrics fore exploding into the loose framework here work on two levels; Phillips lashes album Looking Out. of “Baba Drame.” So while Tyner’s play- cal collaborators, had divorced. Thus her Guitars pairs him with his reunited seventh album as Sam Phillips finds her out at those who have caused her hurt but ing is beyond reproach, and the contribu- she’s just as quick to point the finger back trio of bassist Ron Carter and drummer tions of Carter and DeJohnette are always truly in charge of her own music for the Jack DeJohnette. Contemporary perform- first time. Strangely the new disc doesn’t at herself. The album’s stunning closer, welcome, there’s a sense of genuine “Watching Out of This World,” confronts ers including Marc Ribot, John Scofield, harmony on some tracks and a palpable represent a sharp turn in the sonic direc- banjoist Bela Fleck, Derek Trucks, and tion of her work. a regret far more complicated than mere awkwardness on others. heartache – it’s more about the tension Bill Frisell are also included. The results The accompanying DVD provides While the veneer of Don’t Do are mixed: no matter which player you Anything is lusher and more decorative between joy and pain, and the depen- welcome insight into how this music dence one often has upon the other. favor, Tyner’s well deserved stature as was created, but also reveals how forced than its immediate predecessors, Phillips’ a legend is surely intimidating to any of knack for tuneful arrangements and suc- It’s a powerful message among an many of these pairings are. Guitars ends album sated with them. Don’t Do Any- his disciples, regardless of how successful up being not much more than an intrigu- cinct delivery is as strong as ever. Thickly they’ve been on their own. layered electric guitars cascade over thing is among Phillips’ most confident ing snapshot of what might have been a and challenging albums yet, and solidly Ribot especially seems out of place, worthy but in no way essential addition to acoustic hooks, with a bevy of superbly resorting to ill placed power chords dur- arranged string arrangements setting a reaffirms her position among the most Tyner’s already Herculean output. *** consistently intriguing artists making ing “Passion Dance,” but rebounding on tone that is both imaginative and assuring. the soulful version of “500 Miles”. Pair- Best of all Phillip’s occasional predi- music today. ****

Vol. 12, No. 5 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — January 2009 15 RAPID RIVER ARTS Fine Art Masters of Southern Folk Art

landmark exhibition at the Corcoran Gallery in Washington by Jim Faucett D.C. in the early 1980s focused international attention on the vision that motivates them to preserve the contributions of contemporary precious legacy of southern culture, past southern folk art, focusing on and present. Aself-taught African- American artists from 1930 – 1980. The Corcoran show cap- tured the art world’s attention, proving to be a defining moment in the appreciation of this uniquely Ameri- can art form. Masters of South- ern Folk Art is the exhibition curated by Ann and Ted Oliver, nationally renowned collectors and dealers. The exhibition features contemporary southern folk art from their private collection as well as from their gallery, Oliver’s Southern Folk Art. Lorenzo Scott, “Happy Family” Some pieces will be available for purchase. The Hender- son County Public Library (Washington and 3rd in Hender- sonville), in partnership with the Arts Council, will host “A Vision of South- ern Folk Art” by the Olivers on Thursday, February 19 at 6:00 pm. They will share their very personal journey through the Michael Banks, “Memeory - A John “Cornbread” South they knew as Boy’s Sea” Anderson, “Guinea Hen children. It is a shared and Chicks”

The Arts Council of Henderson County is If a community organization that advo- You The Arts Council of Hender- cates for the arts and provides opportu- o: son County presents its first nities to enrich the lives of children and G exhibition of 2009, Masters of adults through the arts by offering ex- Southern Folk Art, in the D. hibits, art education and performances. Samuel Neill Gallery, February 6 – 28. The Arts Council is located at 538 North Main Street, 2nd Floor (the corner of The Gallery is located at 538 North Main 6th Avenue and Main) in Hendersonville. Street, 2nd Floor in downtown Henderson- ville. The exhibition is free and open to the The Arts Council is supported in part public. Gallery hours are Tuesday – Friday, by the North Carolina Arts Council, the 1 – 5 p.m., and Saturday, 1 – 4 p.m. State of North Carolina, the Commu- For more information contact The Arts nity Foundation of Henderson County, Council of Henderson County at (828) Henderson County, and the Henderson 693-8504 or [email protected]. Visit us County Travel and Tourism Bureau. at acofhc.org.

16 January 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE noteworthy Heather Lewis: Cottage/Industry

eather Lewis is a British art- in 1961. She ist who currently resides in has a BFA and Asheville, and whose creative an MFA from approach incorporates and ex- the University amines semi-industrial process- of Dundee, es. Often focusing on painted Scotland and Hsurfaces, the artist is currently working in has traveled a three-dimensional format. widely, citing The gallery will feature six light the experience installations and ten two-dimensional of living in artworks, along with other experimental different cul- pieces and assorted documentation. The tural environ- work is conceptual with a strong visual ments as being (though not always material) presence, instrumental subverting conventional assumptions of in her work. skill, perfection or precious materials. In Detergent bottles Heather’s this way it questions perception of the art Medium : molded wax work has object’s value. bottles and Christmas been exhib- The exhibit will feature an enormous lights. 30" x 30" x 12" ited in solo shadow, a coin-operated light painting and group that invites the viewer to draw on the exhibitions in wall, and the reflections of numerous galleries in the United States and abroad, mirror circles. Alongside these are vari- including the Ewing Gallery of the Uni- ous installations including a collection of versity of Tennessee, Knoxville; and her glowing, imperfectly molded wax bottles, paintings are in various public and corpo- a painting (displayed as a coffee table) that rate collections including that of Chevron bears the scars of a gravel driveway, and UK Limited, in London. three plastic tubs of recycled cartons lit by cheap Christmas lights. Laura Steward Heon, Phillips Direc- If tor at SITE Santa Fe contemporary art You At the Holden Gallery, space in New Mexico has found Lewis’ o: Warren Wilson College, work interesting in its combination of G 701 Warren Wilson Road, natural and industrial spaces, commenting Swannanoa, NC. that as Lewis “bring(s) different elements Opening Reception on Friday, January together, they pose questions that are 23 at 6:30 p.m. (includes a talk by the artist). answered in unexpected ways”. Exhibition runs January 19 through Febru- Lewis, who is a British national, and ary 28. Gallery hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. permanent resident of the USA was born Monday through Thursday; 1:00 to 4:00 in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago p.m. Sundays.

Young Composer Mixes Classical, Funk, Rock n’ Roll ranscending easy categorization, commissioned Durocher to compose a a fresh new album from a fiercely new work for his orchestra. talented young musician shakes The album blends Durocher’s roots up everything we thought we in rock n’ roll and funk with his training T knew about contemporary music. in classical composition. Also drawing In Thesis Statement, 23-year-old on reggae, folk, blues, jazz, bluegrass and composer, guitarist and musical master- world music, Thesis Statement creates a mind Silas Durocher creates music for the new, inclusive sound for the 21st century. head, the heart and the hips. His ensemble, The world-class group features Silas Silas Durocher and Everybody Knows, has Durocher on guitar and vocals, Bharat been getting rave reviews from listeners Chandra on clarinet, Sasha von Das- across the musical spectrum. sow on cello, Garrett Dawson on drum “I was struck by the way Silas in- set and percussion, and John Miller on tegrated disparate musical styles from upright bass. Bartok, to minor-toned Weimar style jazz, For more information about Silas to the Beatles, to ethnomusics from Africa Durocher and Everybody Knows, the new and the Middle East, into a very distinc- album, or to request music, photos or an tive musical voice,” says Leif Bjaland, interview, please visit silasdurocher.com artistic director and conductor of the or e-mail [email protected]. Sarasota Orchestra in Florida. Bjaland has

Vol. 12, No. 5 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — January 2009 17 18 January 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE Fine Art Russ and Nan Jacobsohn: Focus Gallery Exhibition

n display now through January keeps him connected to nature exhibition include by April Nance 27 in the Folk Art Center’s Fo- and his own pets. He draws ceramic sculptures cus Gallery are the wood animal inspiration from them which and masks. In her The Southern Highland Craft Guild rockers of Russ Jacobsohn and can easily be seen in his craft. “I artist statement, she is a non-profit, educational organization the ceramic sculptures of enjoy sharing my love of animals says that she loves the established in 1930 to bring together the Nan Jacobsohn. through my rocking critters, direct connection the crafts and craftspeople of the South- OThis husband and wife knowing that, because I make artist can have with ern Highlands for the benefit of shared pair from Sparta, TN them with the best materials and clay. “The fact that resources, education, marketing and con- have been members of the craftsmanship, they will last clay was once molten servation. The Southern Highland Craft Southern Highland Craft for generations.” rock, was eroded over Guild is authorized to provide services Guild since 1999. The Focus Gal- time and now to re- at the Blue Ridge Parkway’s Folk Art In his artist statement, lery exhibition turn it to a rock form Center under the authority of a coopera- Russ explains that as a includes pieces again with the aid of tive agreement with the National Park child he was always entitled: Bear, fire…I love that,” she Service, Department of the Interior. around animals since Swimming says. She hopes the his parents owned a Bird, Rocking viewer of her work pet store. Now he lives Horse, Tortoise will respond to one If on a rural farm which and Hare of the many layers in u The exhibition will be on dis- Rocker Nan Jacobsohn, the artwork; that they Yo play through January 27. The and Lion Mask will be affected in Go: Russ Folk Art Center is located Moun- some way. Her Focus at milepost 382 on the Blue Jacobsohn, tain Mule. Gallery titles include: The Fall, Icarus’ Hare Rocker Ridge Parkway in east Asheville and is Nan Jacobsohn’s Mother, Ring of Fire, Lion Mask and open daily. For more information, call (828) contributions to the Moose Mask. 298-7928 or visit www.craftguild.org.

Civil Rights Exhibitions at Gallery 86 in Hendersonville

he Haywood County Arts Coun- by Kay Waldrop work is in museums across Athlone Clarke cil’s Gallery 86 is proud to present, the U.S., and was featured Athlone thrives Visions of Freedom, an exhibition recounts, “I realized that people took Black in an exhibition at the on experimentation of Alabama Folk Artists, on display artists seriously and if Mose could do it, Smithsonian in 2005. and is a firm believer from Wednesday, January 14 to I could be an artist as well”. Some of her William Henry Taylor III that there is no “have Saturday, January 31. to” in art. His mixed most important work separates her from After 20 years as a bio- TBeginning Tuesday, February 3, 2009 other artists and it was her painting of Pet- media journey allows No Water Can Put Out This Freedom chemist Tres saw a book for a rich amalgam tus Bridge that was reproduced as a postal on Alabama folk artists Fire, works by Athlone Clarke will be on stamp in 2005. of found objects that display through Saturday, February 28. and decided to make some seem to have chosen Ted Oliver from Oliver’s Southern Michael Banks radical changes in his life. him to interpret their Folk Art in Hendersonville will lead a dis- Banks has been widely exhibited He spent the next months stories, in as much as cussion on Friday, January 16, and artist in his home state of Alabama as well as visiting folk artists across he has chosen them. Athlone Clarke will discuss his work on Atlanta, Denver, Chicago, Paris-France, the south learning from Athlone states Saturday, February 7 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Florence-Italy and New York, and Ken- their wisdom. Tres has work by Athlone Clark that at the end of Visions of Freedom explores the tuck Folk Art Festival in North Port, AL been a part of exhibitions the day, “the work fight for Civil Rights led by key leaders of (2005, 2006). In January 2007 at the Out- across the southeast, Japan and California. should be capable of standing completely the South and bring to life this difficult sider Art Fair in NYC, Banks had a sell- Tres has stated, when he is painting, “these on its own, and therefore is more elo- period in American history. Artists rep- out show. In 2005, he had a solo exhibi- are the times I feel closest to God and quent than anything that could be resented in Visions of Freedom include tion at the Hurn Museum in Savannah, divine love”. written describing it”. Bernice Sims, Chris Georgia and in 2007, Jimmy Lee Sudduth If Clark, Tres Taylor, a major exhibition in Jimmy Lee is known for his paint- u Exhibition I: “Visions of Michael Banks, and Mobile, Alabama. Yo ings of “sweetmud” berries and acrylic Go: Freedom,” an exhibition of Al- Jimmy Lee Sudduth. Chris Clark using his fingers, rags, sticks and spoons abama folk artists, Wednesday, January 14 through Saturday, Bernice Johnson Although Clark is to apply his media to plywood. His works are featured in over 50 books concern- January 30, 2009. Opening reception: Sims widely revered for his Friday, January 16, 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Bernice enrolled in quilts, he also paints ing folk/outsider art, The Smithsonian, on sticks, furniture, American Museum of Folk Art in New Exhibition II: “No Water Can Put Out an art class at Brew- This Freedom Fire,” Tuesday, February 3 ton’s Jefferson Davis as well as new and York, The High Museum and countless other collections all over the world. through Saturday, February 28, 2009. Open- Community College. used canvases. Chris’s ing reception, Saturday, February 7 from 6 A class field trip to work is included in The second civil rights-themed show is a solo exhibition entitled, No Water p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Gallery hours are 10 a.m.to visit the famous Mose many books, like 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Tolliver in Montgom- Revelations: Alabama Can Put Out This Freedom Fire and Bernice Sims, “Rosa Parks on Visionary Folk Art, on features the work of self-taught artist Ath- Haywood County Arts Council’s Gallery 86 ery, Alabama, was a located at 86 North Main Street, Waynes- turning point. Bernice Montgomery Bus” Acrylic on quilts and folk art. His lone Clarke. canvas. 16" x 20" ville, NC. FREE & open to the public.

Vol. 12, No. 5 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — January 2009 19 RAPID RIVER ARTS FINE ART Western North Carolina Artist Paints a World of Color

For artist Jerry P. Cram, by Pam J. Hecht Sr., it all started with a snow-covered barn. Now, surrounded by the peaceful pas- tures, forests and streams of the North Car- olina mountains, Cram paints the pastoral e passed by it one day, sitting world around him, with a unique, colorful peacefully at the bottom of the perspective. He also paints from his second, mountain road leading up to lakeshore home in Chapala, Mexico. his Burnsville, North Carolina, “People like his paintings because home, and was mesmerized by they’re bright, colorful and unusual,” the purple shad- said Lynn Seibel, manager of Hows it made. Frame Shoppe & Gallery in He took some photo- Asheville, where Cram’s work graphs, picked up a paint is exhibited. “He can make a brush, and finally, after a green sky work.” successful, 35-year career Cram’s work has evolved as a commercial artist, since he first began exhibiting, advertising executive and he said, when a gallery owner ad agency owner, began life suggested that his paintings anew to pursue his long- were a bit dark. abandoned passion. He began reading a book by Although he received a an artist using bright colors and college degree in fine arts, the next thing he knew, he said, specializing in drawing, he had painted a yellow barn painting and sculpture, he with a turquoise sky. The paint- hadn’t picked up a paint “Green Pitcher & Lily” ing sold immediately and he brush since. by Jerry P. Cram began to enjoy using color more

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20 January 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE FINE ART Western North Carolina Artist Paints a World of Color

and more, work too long on a paint- painting commonplace focusing on ing, it will begin to appear things in different the colors labored and lose all of the perspectives and doing of light and quick, fresh spontaneous extreme close ups on its effects on appeal that it may have had large canvases,” he the color of at the outset.” said. “It’ll be a differ- shadows. His paintings, while ent look.” He said complex in color, are simple Cram’s work is he’s painted in composition. currently on exhibit each of his “There are no hidden at Frame Shoppe & best pieces meanings in a painting of a Gallery, 1378 Hen- in one sitting field with cows – if you put dersonville Road, #C, and that they it up and it pleases you then Asheville, (828) 274- “capture the it’s a successful work of art. 3635, www.frameshop- “Lilacs” quality of “I enjoy painting pretty peandgallery.com. by Jerry P. Cram spontaneity.” pictures that make me feel “Spittoon & Statice” His work can also It happens good and hope that they by Jerry P. Cram be found at Art Source when he paints quickly, he said, without make others feel good, too,” Fine Art, Raleigh, continuing to rework the piece or “fix he said. “I want people to share the same www.artsource-raleigh.com; The Art Cel- every blade of grass.” joy I had while creating them.” lar, Banner Elk, NC, www.artcellaronline. “I feel like painting and then the Meanwhile, after several years of com; and John Collette Fine Art, High- brush is moving, painting, flying and it painting and selling landscapes, he is now lands, NC, www.johncollettefineart.com. feels like someone else did it – the paint also venturing into the realm of still life jumps off the edge of the brush and I’m paintings. He was asked to teach a class an innocent bystander. involving still life painting in Chapala and “It is this quality of quickness that thought he “ought to paint a couple first.” Jerry Cram, acrylics on canvas, gives the painting life,” he said. “If I “I’m going in a new direction by www.jerrycramart.com

7 12 15 Downtown Asheville

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32 Get on the Map - Contact Byron Belzak, (828) 768-5600 No Contract - Special Rates - In Print and Online 12 www.downtownasheville.com - A community news source for citizens and grassroots organizations that value and love Downtown Asheville.

Vol. 12, No. 5 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — January 2009 21 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE BOOKS Into the Lands of Dawn

Books for New Beginnings by H. Byron Ballard

here’s something breathlessly their “real” life. January 2009 refreshing about January, when Beck’s earlier everything and anything seems bestseller “Finding Sunday, January 11, 3:00 p.m. Women Respond to War – This moving possible. Even for those of us Your Own North anthology by award-winning author MariJo who celebrate the beginning of Star” was a bril- Moore encompasses a wide range of Tthe new year at a different time than this, liant introduction voices – a Blitz evacuee, an ex-slave, an the switch-over of the cultural new year is to her life-coaching incarcerated mother, and many other a time of resolve and dreams, of expecta- style and its useful- courageous women from around the world. tion and commitment. ness for the average Their poetry and essays, examine war in all its permutations. Here are some reading choices for person looking for a this month — choices that will inspire more authentic way Thursday, January 15, 7:00 p.m. and motivate you. to live. She delivers an easy-to-use pro- Jill Conner Browne, author of American Thighs: The Sweet Potato Queens’ Guide cess that’s been time-tested on her clients. The Art of Pilgrimage: The Seeker’s You may also know Beck’s writing from to Preserving Your Assets. Comic relief Guide to Making Travel Sacred for a culture addicted to finding the her column in O Magazine. Fountain of Youth. by Phil Cousineau. There’s been a movement in the Sleeping with Bread: Holding What Gives Friday, January 23, 7:00 p.m. You Life by Dennis Linn, Sheila Linn and Heather Tosteson reads from and last decade to make vacation travel more discusses her latest book, God Speaks meaningful by thinking of it as pilgrim- Matthew Linn My Language, Can You?. age. So if you are planning to travel for Sometimes the hardest thing about Saturday, January 24, 7:00 p.m. either business or pleasure — or even living well is acknowledging what you Cynn Chadwick, author of Babies, to take your high school senior to visit already have and realizing how lucky you Bikes and Broads. The third book in potential colleges — take a look at this are. There are several good books about the Cat Rising series. book for stories, suggestions and a series gratitude but this is one of my favorites. Saturday, January 31, 7:00 p.m. of excellent meditations. Taking time to It is sweet without being cloying, spiritu- Poet Jeffery Beam, author of The be present when you travel makes the trip ally-based without knocking you over the Beautiful Tendons: Uncollected Queer more meaningful for everyone involved. head with religiosity. Poems 1969-2007. Award-winning Beam The authors have a personal style and reads from his collection of more than What Now? by Ann Patchett. don’t shy away from discussing their own three decades of lyrical, metaphysical work. Patchett’s book began as a com- journeys through sadness and grief to a February 1, 3:00 p.m. mencement speech at Sarah Lawrence profound and grounded joy. This is one Sunday, February 1, 3:00 p.m. College in 2006, and it has that visionary, to tuck under your pillow for those nights Jonathan Rosen, author of The Life of yet practical, wisdom that we’ve come when you confront the Hour of the Wolf. this better than Heat-Moon whose “Blue the Skies: Birding at the End of Nature. to expect from Patchett. A little wacky, Highways” redefined the idea of “travel We are all birdwatchers. Rosen explores amazingly sincere and also far-sighted, Staring at the Sun: Overcoming the writing”. And it really is a mosey — less the significance of this timeless pursuit, Terror of Death by Irving D. Yalom. chronicling his own birding adventures this little book is a wonderful companion a romp than a meandering through some alongside those of John James Audubon, as you reinvent yourself or rediscover Charles Dickens knew what he was pleasant and weird and astounding places. Teddy Rooseevelt, and others. what is really important to you. The talk about when he trotted out three Ghosts This book does nothing less than Friday, February 6, 7:00 p.m. has been expanded somewhat but never in his story of “A Christmas Carol”. The return the American landscape to its Simone Lipscombe loses Patchett’s trademark warmth and December holidays have a way of bring- rightful place in the cultural imagination style. ing us face-to-face with our own mortal- of her people. I can not recommend it Saturday, February 7, 7:00 p.m. ity, as we gather with family and friends, Jack Riggs, a masterly voice in Southern The New Secret Language of Dreams: highly enough. fiction. The Fireman’s Wife is an noting those who are no longer at the The Illustrated Key to Understanding feast. New year, new life. Why don’t we all emotionally bare and moving novel about the Mysteries of the Unconscious one woman’s struggle to do what’s right – Yalom’s work is always accessible, take this opportunity to invest in some- for her family, for her love, and for herself. by David Fontana. without giving the reader a sense of being thing a little more heartfelt than the usual The title is a mouthful, but this is a talked-down to. This may be his most “lose 20 pounds” resolution and start lusciously-illustrated edition of a dream- important work to date, as the ubiquitous a revolution in our own lives? Take an 55 Haywood St. diviners’ favorite. It’s also been rewritten aging Baby Boomers come up against old inventory of who you are, who you were, 828-254-6734 • 800-441-9829 and freshened up a bit. Fontana has a age and the eternal cycles of life. who you can be. Start with some reading, Hours: Mon-Thurs, 8am-9pm impressive reputation as a dream analyst add some writing, spend real time with Fri & Sat, 8am-10pm; Sun, 8am-7pm and this edition is easy to use. There are Roads to Quoz: An American Mosey people — and books! — you love. also suggestions for keeping a dream by William Least Heat-Moon journal and for remembering and struc- If you have never read this author, Byron Ballard is a bookseller, organic turing dreams. And once you know your this is a grand place to start. When we gardener and a beekeeper. Her writings dreams, then you can structure your life are looking to live differently or better, have appeared in local and national print to achieve them, can’t you? sometimes it requires a road trip, a break and electronic media. She blogs for the with and from all we know. Nobody does Steering by Starlight: Find Your Right Asheville Citizen-Times as “the Village Life No Matter What by Martha Beck Witch”. So many people tend to put their Byron Ballard, Asheville’s Village Witch Byron lives on an urban farmstead in lives on hold, waiting to get the next http://blogs.citizen-times.com/blogs/ Asheville’s historic West End with her batch of things done, before they live index.php?blog=18 husband Joe and daughter Kate.

22 January 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE poetry always listen to what Poetry And Children A sacred fury... children have to share and Touch an uncommon madness... teach us. pirituality and creativity are deeply existence and the animal Children know in- We step outside the restaurant connected. I’ve seen this connec- and plant kingdom’s exis- nately when they touch a into early evening. tion proven over and over while tence. It is our existence. tree or hold a flower that spending time with my grand- Our bodies are connected something inside them In the distance church bells are S daughters and other children. This to the earth, both physi- is going to click. If we chiming the time. connection needs to be fed if they are to cally and spiritually. a scattering of birds... can reinforce this innate “Hear the bells?” believe they have a place in this world. At the most ba- knowing that they are part I ask three-year-old Emma. Helping young people understand sic level, everything is by MariJo Moore of the whole — a part of their connection to the earth is one of created, lives, dies and everything — they won’t “People are praying,” she answers. my passions. Inspiring them on to cre- returns to the earth to be as likely to abuse the land, each other or themselves. They will “And well they should,” I say. ative works through this spiritual con- nourish things to come. Before European “And well they should.” nection has become one of the greatest contact, Indigenous peoples had definite realize all of their actions effect so many joys of my life. forms of education for children that were other people. She reaches to hold my hand and passed down from generation to genera- Today, there are video games and my world changes yet again. tion, and all were centered on contact television that are often more appealing The First Snowfall with the natural world. In many nations, to young people than finding their own this teaching continues. creativity. Though I do not believe these MariJo Moore © March 2007 of 2008 Nature is as much a part of human things are all bad, they provide less of a beings as our eyes, heart, and blood. We creative outlet than other activities. There Night of January 1 are connected to the animals, plants, are many ways we can help guide children in every one. We all owe it to others as rocks, the earth, and their voices and toward a spiritual connection through na- well as ourselves to pursue our creative It’s snowing little balls. energy can speak to all of us. Understand- ture by encouraging them to express their gifts. I think what causes so many people creativity. Creating They’re hitting the face of the car. ing our connection to be sick and depressed is they stifle their with nature brings an can add significance creative energy due to fear of failure. It’s snowing in little balls. understanding of our to one’s life and a So, if you are feeling stagnated in connection with all Children need deeper understand- your creativity, spend time with children. Little bitty balls. things. ing of the universe. As Vincent Van Gogh commented on his The snowflakes are spinning in I believe this opportunities to Children need painting “Camille Roulin, Le Collégien” the wind. connection starts in opportunities to (January 1889), “If you watch a child the womb. Reading express themselves. express themselves. closely you will see that he already has the They’re spinning and spinning. to the unborn child, Having a child draw infinite in the expression of his eyes.” sending the baby or write about a walk Zoey Makayla Jaynes © 2008 (age 6) thoughts, getting out in to nature, sitting in the woods is a kind of ceremony be- by a stream, telling the baby about the cause it is reconnecting the child with the MariJo Moore is the author of a dozen bigger picture are all extremely important earth. Poetry is ceremony. Dance is cer- books including three books of poetry: aspects of connectedness. Once the child emony. Creating with clay, fabric squares, Spirit Voices of Bones, Confessions of a My beliefs about spirituality are is born, this tradition should continue. or even rearranging the furniture can be a Madwoman (now available on CD), and the deeply connected to nature and creativity. Children’s dreams, ideas, and thoughts child’s way of expressing connections. forthcoming Poets Inhale The Darkness To the American Indian, humankind and are often the product of creative energy. American Indians do not have a Artists Breathe. www.marijomoore.com earth are one. There isn’t humankind’s Their curiosity leads them and we should corner on spirituality. The connection is

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Vol. 12, No. 5 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — January 2009 23 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE books See You in a Hundred Years: Four Laura McDowell to Publish Book Seasons in Forgotten America on Music in the Renaissance

Written by Logan Ward r. Laura Mc- by Valerie Leeper Dowell has been awarded an Ap- n January 2000 Logan Ward, Reviewed by Frank Polk palachian Col- new scholarship generated his wife, and their toddler son lege Association on many of these compos- left New York City and the with excitement, drama D ers, including new critical (ACA) grant in response to 21st century behind. They and most of all, a magical her proposal to produce a editions of their music. Ibought a small home and learning experience that The resulting book book from her dissertation some land in the country and de- very few ever get the op- Death in the Renaissance: will be the definitive study cided to move there for one year portunity to discover. Musical Symbols and Styles of this genre of motet, and live as if it were 1900. This charming book in the Commemorative unique for its inclusion of This meant no indoor reads like a grown-up Motets 1460-1539. The contextual/historical in- plumbing, no cars, nothing that version of the timeless grant makes it possible for formation on the deceased has been invented in the past children’s classic My Side her to complete this com- Dr. Laura McDowell persons, the compos- century. They also would plant of the Mountain, where a prehensive project during a ers, complete texts with their own crops, cook over a young boy leaves New York much deserved one year sabbatical dur- translations, listing of both wood burning stove and milk City to go live in a dead ing the 2009-2010 academic year. musical sources and modern editions, a couple of goats. The Wards had never tree in the mountains. McDowell’s dissertation was a and musical analysis.” done anything like this before so they had Ward brings his adventures to life genre study of the large corpus of Due to current economic con- no idea what they were getting into. Or with fresh crisp prose that propels the commemorative works from the late straints, the ACA found it necessary what they would get out of this experi- reader through just under 250 pages. This fifteenth and early sixteenth centuries. this year to limit financial support by ence. See You in a Hundred Years: Four is a real treat for anyone who finds them- These vocal works memorializing some awarding to fewer applicants. Though Seasons in Forgotten America is Ward’s selves daydreaming about getting away of the most distinguished patrons of there were many applicants in com- journal of that special year — one filled from it all. music, composers, and noted historical petition for ACA funds, only 10 such figures were written by the preeminent awards were granted, further high- composers of that time. lighting the strength and quality of The interrelationship of the compos- McDowell’s proposal. ers, their music, and the persons memo- McDowell has a contract with the rialized in the seventy-nine years from Edwin Mellen Press Ltd. for the manu- 1460-1539 forms a fascinating chapter script to be submitted by December writers wanted 2010. She is Professor and Coordinator To cover theatre, the arts, events and other interesting things. Please respond in the history of Renaissance music and by email with sample writings to [email protected] culture. McDowell said, “It is fortuitous of Music at Brevard College and has that I am returning to this project at this served on the faculty of the Division of remove in time, because of the wealth of Fine Arts since 1976.

“It’s nothing Rare Birds: Conversations with After Dayton I could have imagined.” Legends of Jazz and Classical Music written by C.S. Carrier C.S. Carrier was born in by Thomas Rain Crowe with Nan Watkins The suburban world of After Dayton, Ohio Dayton is radioactive, diseased and and grew homas Rain Reviewed by Frank Polk energetic in equal measure. It pulses up in North Crowe, known lo- and strobes with the exothermic Carolina. cally for his poetry reactions of modern science and the He attended differently is go beyond inter- and writing (having pretation by simply letting the familiar everyday colliding: “battery- Western Car- written over 20 operated candlesticks still burn the olina Uni- T musicians do the talking. It is books), has just come out honest and gritty, emotional secrets of Christmas.” These poems versity, and with a compilation of inter- strive desperately to name, but objects earned an MFA from the University of and sometimes funny, but views and essays on Jazz. always powerful. and people squirm and metamorphose Massachusetts-Amherst. His work has For music lovers this before them. Bodies and machines appeared in 6x6, American Letters and Rare Bird focuses not only could very well be one of on the music but also the art- become indistinguishable: “diaphrag- Commentary, Coconut, LIT, Pleiades, the most entertaining books matic camshafts,” “anvils in my ears.” Verse, Word For/Word and elsewhere. ists. It dives into their personal in 2008; if not it certainly is one of the lives and comes close many times to After Dayton offers us a strange and He teaches at the University of Hart- most beautifully produced books I have frightening animation, the phenomenal ford in West Hartford, Connecticut. almost answering the age-old question seen in a great while. The typeset is “What is the meaning of art?” world alive in singular ways. This is, as sharp and easy to read and the photos Carrier writes at one point, “avantgarde ISBN: 978-1-884800-85-6 Thomas Rain Crowe on tour for capture the abstract poetry of Jazz. The book Rare Birds: Conversations with choreography.” Price: $15.95 paperback, 68 pages. Or- interviews are even better. In After Dayton Carrier gives us an der from the University Press of New Legends of Jazz and Classical Music, The last few decades have produced Sunday, January 18, at 7 p.m. Mala- innovative reworking of the lyric voice, England by calling 1-800-421-1561 or mountains of books, methods, histories unsettling what we can expect from lyr- visit www.upne.com. prop’s Bookstore and Cafe, 55 Haywood and criticisms on almost every aspect St., Asheville, NC. (828) 254-6734. ic poetry. In the speaker’s own words: of the art of jazz. What Rare Birds does

24 January 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 5 Reel Take Reviewers: For the latest reviews, Chip Kaufmann is a film historian who theater info and also shares his love of classical music as , visit a program host on WCQS-FM radio. movie show times www.rapidrivermagazine.com Michelle Keenan is a long time student of film, a believer in the magic of movies and a fundraiser for public radio. ∑∑∑∑∑ - Fantastic Sierra Bicking, our Teen Reviewer, ∑∑∑∑ - Pretty darn good prefers movies that show teenagers as brilliant and brave. ∑∑∑ - Has some good points ∑∑ - The previews lied ∑ - Only if you must Questions/Comments? M- Forget entirely You can email Chip or Michelle at [email protected]

Australia ∑∑∑∑ “the movies” minister (Philip Seymour Hoffman). Short Take: Baz will find much Caught in the middle is a young nun Luhrmann’s Down Under to admire (Amy Adams) who looks up to the Sister epic is a salute to the and process for guidance while admiring the priest’s kind of movie they just here. It’s just new approach. don’t make anymore. a shame that When Sister Aloysius suspects Father more people Flynn of taking indecent liberties with Reel Take: It has been aren’t doing it. one of the students, she sees an opportu- a long time since such nity to get rid of him and what he stands a large scale, old-fash- Rated PG-13 for violence, for. Although the evidence is circumstan- ioned epic like Australia tial and the Father denies it, she enlists has been seen on movie some sen- suality, and the aid of Sister James in her effort to screens and judging from Nicole Kidman & Hugh Jackman in bring him down. Frank Langella as Richard Nixon the box office results, Baz Luhrmann’s homage to old- brief strong language. Those who attended Catholic school in Frost/Nixon with Michael Sheen contemporary audiences fashioned epics, Australia. as David Frost looking on in the Review by Chip in the 1960s will definitely have an inside are not that interested and background. Kaufmann track as to the look and feel of the film. that’s too bad. They will also have a stronger emotional Australia is Baz Luhrmann’s salute ∑∑∑ identification with the characters and the porting performances especially from Sam to the films of Hollywood and Australia’s Doubt 1/2 events that take place than I did. Such was Rockwell as journalist James Reston, Kevin past. There are references scattered Short Take: Good but not great film the case at the advance screening that I Bacon as Nixon’s Marine bodyguard and throughout from The Wizard Of Oz taken from the acclaimed stage play. attended. confidante, and former child star Patty (Somewhere Over The Rainbow plays a Reel Take: Like Ron Howard’s Frost/ Doubt is loaded with fine perfor- McCormack (The Bad Seed) as Pat Nixon. key part in the story) to the classic Western Nixon (reviewed elsewhere in this issue), mances not only from the three principals For those of you too young to have Red River. There are also “quotes” from John Patrick Shanley’s Doubt is based on and Viola Davis as the mother of the been there, here’s the background. In 1977, several Australian films of the 70’s and 80’s a play. In this case Shanley not only wrote boy in question, but also from the child three years after having resigned the presi- as well as the use of such Aussie actors as the original but directed the film as well. performers as well. Unfortunately I never dency, Richard Nixon agreed to do a series Bryan Brown, Jack Thompson and espe- This turns out to be its major weakness. got past the point of thinking that I was of four televised interviews with British cially Aboriginal actor David Gulpilil. While Doubt certainly isn’t a bad film, watching a play transferred to the screen. talk show host David Frost for $600,000. Hugh Jackman and Nicole Kidman it lacks a visual dynamic quality that would I was engaged while I was in the theatre Nixon and those around him believed are a strong couple in the classic tradi- have drawn me more into it. A more expe- but it just didn’t stick with me after I left. that Frost was a lightweight who wouldn’t tion of two different people who start ask tough questions and who could be rienced director would have added a little Rated PG-13 for thematic material. out hating each other only to fall in love, more flair and perhaps staged the character easily outmaneuvered. For three of the are separated, and then get reunited in confrontations a little more forcefully Review by Chip Kaufmann four interviews that was the case but then the end. There is a surface resemblance came the fourth. During the last interview from a cinematic point of view. ∑∑∑∑ to Meryl Streep and Robert Redford in The Frost / Nixon 1/2 Nixon surprisingly broke down and admit- Out Of Africa causing some critics to dub story, Short Take: Outstanding film version of ted his involvement in Watergate. it “Out Of Australia” but the film has a based on the Peter Morgan play about the famous Director Ron Howard, in what may much larger scope and storyline. Shanley’s 1977 interviews. be his finest film to date, allows the story There are several large scale set pieces Catholic to tell itself. Perhaps because of the play’s throughout the film including a cattle Reel Take: Frost/Nixon is one of those school movies that not only celebrates its origins TV origins, he keeps the film technically stampede in the middle and the bomb- back- simple (although the editing is superb) ing of Darwin by the Japanese at the end. (the play by Peter Morgan (The Queen)), ground, but also its performers as well. Not many which allows us to follow the proceed- Tucked away in all of this is the examina- deals with ings and to savor the performances. tion of the Australian policy of removing movies have their origins in plays these the con- days (another one Doubt with Meryl Nixon/Frost not only recreates a defining mixed race children from their Aboriginal frontation moment in American television history, mothers and placing them in schools to Streep and Philip Seymour Hoffman is between reviewed elsewhere in this issue) but few it shows how David Frost unwittingly prepare them for a life of servitude. The an old opened the door for future celebrity film is narrated by one of these children have been done as well as this. school nun Although the play was essentially interviews that unlike this encounter (Brandon Walters) ala Days Of Heaven. (Meryl promise more than they actually deliver. I immensely enjoyed Australia despite a two man show between David Frost Streep) and and Richard Nixon (Michael Sheen and Rated R for strong language. the film’s 2hr 45min length. It’s the ideal a reform combination of old-fashioned and new- Meryl Streep as Sister Frank Langella recreating their stage roles), Review by Chip Kaufmann minded Aloysius in Doubt. Frost/Nixon contains several fine sup- fangled filmmaking. Anyone who loves ‘Movies’ continued on pg 26

Vol. 12, No. 5 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — January 2009 25 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE FILM REVIEWS

‘Movies’ continued from pg 25 about Milk’s story while most people a Patel) an 18-year-old orphan from the little bit younger than I probably have slums of Mumbai. In an effort to win the ∑∑∑∑ no knowledge of who he was. Regardless heart of the woman he loves and prove Gran Torino 1/2 of age, orientation, political or religious himself worthy of her, he becomes a Short Take: Rumored to be his last views, Milk should be mandatory viewing contestant on India’s “Who Wants to be a performance, Eastwood directs and for all Americans. Millionaire?” In a feat never before seen stars in the story of Walt Kowalski, Directed by Gus Van Sant, Milk tells on Indian television, Jamal makes it to a retired, widowed auto-worker the story of the last decade of Harvey the final round. On the eve of the final who decides to clean up his Detroit Milk’s life – a decade where he went from round, Jamal is arrested for cheating and neighborhood. a closeted investment banker in New interrogated. Reel Take: Gran Torino is Eastwood’s York to an openly gay businessman and How did an uneducated kid from second directorial film credit this year. civil rights activist in San Francisco. After the slums get on the show and then Changeling would have been most becoming involved in fighting for gay know the answers to the questions. Did people’s guess for the better of the two. rights, Milk became a charismatic leader he cheat, or was it written? The interro- Oddly enough, while Changeling is and brilliant strategist for the movement, gation takes us back through each ques- indeed a fine film, to me Gran Torino is Clint Eastwood defends the neighborhood in Gran Torino. eventually seeking public office and tion from the show. As each question is clearly the superior and even made my running several times before becoming asked, we are taken to Jamal’s memories. Top 10 list for the year. for his neighborhood, taking the young elected to a city supervisor seat in 1977. The answer to each question lies in his In what is possibly his final perfor- man (Bee Vang) of the Lor family under Less than year later Milk and San Fran- life experiences. Through those experi- mance, Eastwood plays Walt Kowalski, his wing along the way. Barriers between cisco Mayor George Moscone (Victor ences we also learn Jamal’s life story. a retired auto-worker and Korean War Walt and the neighbors are broken and a Garber) were shot and killed by fellow veteran complete with all the prejudices of genuine friendship is forged. supervisor, Dan White (Josh Brolin). his age and class. He is recently widowed The story is peppered with wonder- Van Sant intersperses just enough and not particularly close to his children. ful moments of humor. To that end, footage to show the political fervor and Much to Walt’s chagrin Father Janovich Walt’s observations and prejudiced quips climate in the country of the time. Writer (Christopher Carley) insists on visiting muttered throughout the film serve as Dustin Lance Black smartly does not him because Walt’s wife asked him to verbalized bubble captions. Eastwood depict Milk as a perfect man. In fact he before she died. balances Walt’s prejudices with words of paints a very honest picture of a flawed The presence of the Lors (a Hmong equal contempt from the Hmong family. man, but a good man. The flaws actually family) next door is proof to him that the Gran Torino could have been fairly help us understand Milk and the fervor neighborhood is going downhill. How- rote material, but Eastwood elevates it to of his fight. Penn balances the aspects of ever it is the increasing presence of gang higher ground by infusing it with touches Milk’s larger than life personality with activity that drives Walt to take a stand from the sum of his vast experience. It’s integrity and humanity. Apparently some tight, streamlined, thoughtful and appeal- who actually knew Harvey Milk say that ing to the masses without ever dumb- Penn’s performance is uncannily like ing down. There is a climatic moment their friend. Supporting cast members Theatre Directory of symbolism that struck me as a little Josh Brolin, Emile Hirsch and James cheesy, but that event worked for story. Jamal (Dev Patel) and Latika Asheville Pizza & Brewing Company Franco (as Milk’s partner Scott Smith) If this is indeed Eastwood’s final turn in top notch performances. (Frieda Pinto) find each other in Movieline (828) 254-1281 performance as an actor it was an apt one. Slumdog Millionaire. www.ashevillepizza.com Ultimately two sad truths really Beyond the geriatric Dirty Harry quality struck me watching this film. This was the Beaucatcher Cinemas (Asheville) of Walt Kowalski, the story offers periodic first time I’ve ever seen a real love story Orphaned after a fit of sectarian Movieline (828) 298-1234 tips of the hat to his expansive career. unfold between two men in a feature film. violence when they were small boys, Jamal Biltmore Grande Gran Torino personifies the striking Secondly and most profoundly we forget and his older brother set off to make their 1-800-FANDANGO #4010 combination of Eastwood the cowboy, that Harvey Milk’s fight and Proposition way in the world. It’s a world most of us www.REGmovies.com Eastwood the cop and Eastwood the Re- 6 didn’t happen very long ago, and the can’t even fathom. Jamal’s story is cruel, naissance man. fight still goes on today. One would like but throughout it Jamal is a pure spirit, Carmike 10 (Asheville) Rated R for language throughout, and to think we’d evolved earlier than that, but ever the optimist, never losing hope and Movieline (828) 298-4452 sadly we didn’t and we haven’t. unflagging in his love for Latika (Freida www.carmike.com some violence. Review by Michelle Keenan Pinto), an orphan he has known since they Carolina Cinemas Rated R for language, some sexual content and brief violence. were little. Even in an unfamiliar culture (828) 274-9500 ∑∑∑∑∑ in a far away land, Boyle does what Boyle www.carolinacinemas.com Milk Review by Michelle Keenan does best, mixing a childlike spirit with an Cinebarre (Asheville) Short Take: Sean ugly world. The film is beautifully pho- Penn gives the Slumdog Millionaire www.cinebarre.com tographed, cleverly told and offers some- performance of ∑∑∑∑∑ thing for everyone. The Falls Theatre (Brevard) a lifetime as civil Short Take: An eighteen-year- On first mentioning a movie set in Movieline (828) 883-2200 rights activist and old from the slums of Mumbai India about a game show contestant will San Francisco’s first Fine Arts Theatre (Asheville) becomes a contestant on India’s not sound appealing to most western- openly gay politician version of “Who Wants to be a ers, but you will root for Jamal. I can’t Movieline (828) 232-1536 Harvey Milk. www.fineartstheatre.comm Millionaire?” in order to win the imagine anyone not enjoying Slumdog Reel Take: I knew heart of the girl he has loved his Millionaire. Flat Rock Theatre (Flat Rock) the name Harvey Milk. whole life. Movieline (828) 697-2463 I knew he was gay and Rated R for some violence, disturbing im- Reel Take: British director ages and language. www.flatrockcinema.com I knew he was dead, Danny Boyle (Millions, Trainspot- Review by Michelle Keenan Four Seasons (Hendersonville) but I didn’t really know ting) meets Bollywood in one of Movieline (828) 693-8989 much else. People a the best films of year. Slumdog little bit older probably have more recall Smoky Mountain Cinema (Waynesville) Millionaire tells the story of Jamal (Dev ‘Movies’ continued on next pg Movieline (828) 452-9091

26 January 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE FILM REVIEWS

‘Movies’ continued from pg 26 2008 is coming to a close. Unfortunately The Curious Case of The Best of some of the best movies of the year are coming Benjamin Button ∑∑∑∑1/2 out just as we are putting this issue to bed, Short Take: A beguiling story of life, love and death told through the eyes but based on what we’ve seen, we’ve decided to of a man born old and grows young. do our own Reel Takes rankings for the best movies of the year. Reel Take: As it says in my byline 2008 – I believe in the magic of movies. All year, I’ve been waiting for a film that exemplifies that most wonderful, transcendent essence. It’s finally here Chip Kaufmann’s Top 10 Movies of 2008 in The Curious Case of Benjamin (in alphabetical order) Button. “I was 1. And When Did You Last See Your – Superb documentary on the former born under Father – Superbly acted drama of a President from filmmaker Jonathan unusual cir- son coming to terms with the death Demme. cumstances,” of his overbearing father. 7. Miracle At Saint Anna – Spike Lee’s says Benja- 2. Australia – Baz Luhrmann’s Down ambitious World War II drama deals min Button Under saga is an homage to old style with racism while defining the nature (Brad Pitt). Hollywood epics. of sacrifice. Indeed while 3. The Dark Knight – Heath Ledger’s 8. Slumdog Millionaire – Danny Laz Alonso, Derek Luke, Mike Ealy everyone else Joker highlights Christopher Nolan’s Boyle’s look at life and love in the and Omar Benson Miller star in is born young comic book meditation on moral slums of Mumbai may be the best Spike Lee’s overlooked Miracle and grows ambiguity. film of the year. at Saint Anna. old, Button 4. Frost / Nixon – Ron Howard su- 9. The Visitor – This low budget Best Foreign Film was born old perbly captures the essence of the independent feature speaks volumes and grows play while making it cinematically about the nature of human relation- Let The Right One In (Sweden) young. While the streets of New Or- interesting. ships. leans were full of revelers on the night Honorable Mention “The Great War” ended, Benjamin’s 5. Gran Torino – Clint Eastwood’s “last 10. W. – Oliver Stone’s meditation on The Bank Job, Eagle Eye, Elegy, Flaw- mother died giving birth to him. stand” as an actor essays his career what made the former President the less, In Bruges, Iron Man, Kit Kitteridge, His father, unable to bear the while touching on the nature of man he is today has a great perfor- Kung Fu Panda, Transsiberian, Zach & sight of the withered, arthritic babe, America today. mance from Josh Brolin. Miri Make A Porno. deposits him on the steps of a nursing 6. Jimmy Carter, Man From Plains home/boarding house of sorts. There he is raised by a black woman named Queenie (Taraji P. Henson). “He’s Michelle Keenan’s Top 10 Movies of 2008 not the kind of miracle you hope for, (in alphabetical order) but he’s a miracle nonetheless,” says Queenie. To me this sentence set the 1. Australia – Baz Luhrmann’s grand 6. Milk – An honest, inspiring, eye tone for the whole movie. epic is a love letter to his homeland, opening, must-see story of civil One would not expect a film as and to sweeping, old fashioned mov- rights activists and San Francisco’s emotionally wholehearted and viva- ies. See it on the big screen! first openly gay councilman Harvey cious as this to have been directed by 2. The Curious Case of Benjamin Milk. Sean Penn gives the perfor- the man who directed Fight Club (a Button – A beguiling, oddly magical mance of his life. brilliant movie in its own right). How- story of life and love as told through 7. Persepolis – An engaging story of ever when combined with writer Eric a life aging in reverse. a young Iranian girl told through a François Cluzet as Dr. Alexandre Beck and Marie-Josée Croze as Roth (whose many credits include The 3. Frost / Nixon – Ron Howard deftly simple, black and white line style Good Shepherd and Forrest Gump), French animation. Margot Beck in Tell No One (Ne le directs the story of the tumultuous Dis a Personne). it starts to makes sense. Roth adapted interview between British television 8. Slumdog Millionaire – The fantastic and expanded upon a short story by F. presenter David Frost and former tale of an eighteen year old orphan Scott Fitzgerald. The result is a story President Nixon, brilliantly show- from Mumbai who becomes a Honorable Mention that revels in the human experience. ing the fragility of a nation and the contestant on the Indian version of My honorable mentions include Being a little boy in an old man’s complicated man that was Richard “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire” to body gives Benjamin a unique per- Rock-N-Rolla, Mama Mia, Iron Man M. Nixon, in an Oscar-worthy per- win the heart of a girl. and The Dark Knight. All four were solid spective on life. He meets the love of formance by Frank Langella. his life when the granddaughter of one 9. Tell No One (Ne le Dis a Per- films in their own right and were utterly the home’s residents comes to visit; 4. Gran Torino – At first glance, it’s a sonne) – A smart, entertaining, entertaining. Guy Ritchie is back in the Daisy (Cate Blanchett) and Benjamin geriatric Dirty Harry, but it’s a fine French who-done-it and moreover a saddle with Rock-N-Rolla. Mama Mia become fast friends. She somehow story and a nice tip of the hat to beautiful love story. is the feel good film/musical of the year. understands that he’s not as old as he Eastwood’s career. 10. The Visitor – A wonderful little Iron Man is an old fashioned comic book looks. He quietly and amicably ob- 5. In Bruges – A not for the faint-of- independent movie that depicts the hero, Saturday afternoon matinee fare, serves and accepts the passages of life heart story yet thoughtful story of two beauty, vulnerability and kindness of while The Dark Knight boasts the stand- from the nursing home until he grows hit men hiding out in Bruges (that’s in humanity. out performance of the year in what was up (yet younger physically) and heads Belgium). Brendan Gleeson and Colin sadly Heath Ledger’s last completed role. Farrell give top notch performances. ‘Movies’ continued on pg. 28

Vol. 12, No. 5 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — January 2009 27 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE FILM REVIEWS

‘Movies’ continued from pg 27 Four Christmases TEEN REVIEW by Sierra Bicking out on his own adventures. Eventually Daisy and Benjamin meet in the middle of their lives and simply love one another, Four Christmases ∑∑ Once there, this, it took it to a for life is lived in moments. If you’re like me, you might they become whole new level. The Curious Case of Benjamin have had some trouble getting entangled in While some of Button is not perfect but it is a beautiful, into the Christmas spirit this year disturbing situ- the acting was mar- oddly magical love letter to life. and hoped that seeing a good ations (I won’t velous and the char- Rated PG-13 for brief war violence, sexual Christmas movie would get you spoil the sur- acters intriguing, the content and language. in the mood. In my case, I went prises) and learn movie ultimately Review by Michelle Keenan to see Four Christmases, which more about each snowed itself in with has five Oscar winners and two other than they its vulgar, sexual, well-known singers in it. ever wanted to and extremely lame Sierra Bicking is know. humor. So if you an arte aficionado Four Christmases is about an extraordinaire. unmarried couple, Kate (Reese Most have a dysfunction- Witherspoon) and Brad (Vince families are a bit al family of your Vaughn), who are forced to visit all dysfunctional in some way, which can own, go see this movie. It will make four of their dysfunctional, divorced make Christmas gatherings tortuous. them seem positively functional. parents’ houses on Christmas Day. Four Christmases not only reflected

Chip Kaufmann’s Pick: Michelle Keenan’s Pick: “Pennies From Heaven” January’s DVD Picks “The Visitor”

Jennifer Connelly and Keanu Reeves in Pennies From Heaven Visitor is now out on DVD and well The Day The Earth Stood Still. (1981) worth the rental fee. As we start off the New Year in a Richard Jenkins (HBO’s Six Feet The Day the Earth Stood Still time of economic uncertainty, what Under) plays Walter Vale, a mild ∑∑∑1/2 could be a better choice than this mannered Connecticut professor underappreciated gem from 1981 that whose passion for his work has long Short Take: Remake of the classic 1951 since faded. Since his wife’s passing, film is a lot better than it should be. shows how the grim reality of the Great Depression was hidden by the any remnant of zeal is gone and he Reel Take: I’ll admit upfront that I went happy lyrics of such musical offerings just quietly goes through the motions into this remake with a palpable sense of as the title song. of the day-to-day, almost sleepwalk- dread. Here comes yet another trumped- Pennies From Heaven was ing through life. When sent to New York City to deliver a paper he didn’t up special effects extravaganza of a classic adapted from a British TV series by upon its initial release as it wasn’t write, Walter returns to an apartment older film offering us visual style over Dennis Potter of The Singing Detec- what Steve Martin fans expected or he seldom uses. Much to his surprise thematic substance. I am happy to report tive fame. The film gave Steve Martin wanted to see. he finds two illegal immigrants living that I was wrong. his first opportunity to shed his “wild It has since developed a strong there. In an unlikely turn he invites Director Scott Derrickson has indeed and crazy guy” persona and teamed cult following over the years and now the young couple to stay (at least until updated the material (which needed to him up with future long time com- can be appreciated for the highly origi- they find some place else), a friend- be done) but he retained the essence of panion Bernadette Peters. nal entertainment it was. It’s definitely ship is forged and Walter starts to the original. If the Earth is to survive then The story concerns the downward a movie worth seeing if you like your emerge from his daze. humans have to change their ways or per- spiral of a 1930s sheet music salesman musicals on the dark side ala Cabaret The immigrants are Syrian and ish. Although the message here is environ- and a rural teacher. As their situation or if you like entertainment that pro- African, so one can guess early on mental rather than economic, the recent worsens, they take solace in the upbeat vides food for thought. financial meltdown only underscores that sentiments of the songs he sells. These that the government will rear its ugly aspect of human behavior that is “leading head at some point. What unfolds is songs are staged as 1930s musical The Visitor us to the precipice” as one character puts it. numbers ala 42nd Street and are truly a pointed commentary on post-911 You may have missed this won- This time around the alien Klaatu eye-popping showing off Martin and immigration policy, especially The Pa- derful little movie when it played at (Keanu Reeves in the Michael Rennie Peters to good advantage. A young triot Act. While this is prominent, it is the Fine Arts Theatre earlier this year. role) arrives in Central Park rather than Christopher Walken does a tap dance not the main point of the movie. What You’ll notice that it made my Top 10 Washington D.C. and his robot compan- number that will leave you breathless. really resonates is the universality of list as well as Chip Kaufmann’s. The ion is far more intimidating than in the Pennies From Heaven tanked people coming together in kindness. 1951 original. One change I didn’t like was the giving of the name “Gort” to the military rather than Klaatu. It eliminates the classic line “Klaatu barada nikto” which halts the destruction of Earth. tries to convince the alien through logic cessor for its willingness to give us food Rated PG-13 for disaster images and Imagine Citizen Kane without “Rosebud”. of the worth of human beings (a bad for thought rather than more bang for some violence. Jennifer Connelly inherits the Patricia idea). This part is considerably reduced our buck by making the impressive spe- Review by Chip Kaufmann Neal role as the woman who ultimately from the Sam Jaffe original which is also cial effects subservient to the screenplay. saves the world although it’s her emotions something of a disappointment. As the movie tells us in no uncertain While not as good as the original terms, it’s time to eliminate our excesses Questions/Comments? You can email Chip as opposed to her strength that saves the or Michelle at [email protected] day. John Cleese plays the scientist who overall, this new version is a worthy suc- and get down to what’s really important.

28 January 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE REstaurants & Wine

Bourbon and Bubbles Hot Toddy - Federal Fizz, Sore Throat Troubles This is my toddy. It’s not as involved as it looks, but it can get a little messy ith this month’s peaceful by Michael Parker when you make a lot of them: transfer of power in Washing- Unique & Appealing ton, DC, California wine- • Cinnamon Sticks media has recently made hay about the maker Joy Sterling is hopeful • Whole cloves Wine Selection her sparkling wine will be conspicuous absence of Southerners in the W incoming administration. They should at We’re working harder than ever to • Fresh lemons served and enjoyed by a fifth Presidential bring you terrific wines at the best administration. least include more of our bounty. Advice to Biltmore: work it, work it, work it! • Honey possible prices and deliver the best Her winery, Iron Horse, excels at customer service you’ll find. sparkling wine, and made the headlines in • Bourbon Hot Toddy Season You don’t have to be a connois- 1985 when President Ronald Reagan and Boil a stick or two with five to ten Arrives Early seur to find a good bottle of wine. Russian General Secretary Mikhail Gor- cloves in two mugs of water until the bachev raised their glasses for a toast to The Wine Guy specializes in unique The Phone rings. It’s Jami. “I feel like water turns brown. I use the micro- peace. This was the beginning of glasnost crap and I need hot toddies. I’ll bring a wines, $20 and under, that are an (openness), the acceleration of the Rus- wave and a large glass measuring cup exceptionally good value. Call or visit movie and a puppy.” for this. You can reuse the cinnamon sian economy we later called perestroika. It was a perfect hot toddy night. The either of our locations. Ironically, the new movement included and clove at least twice. In this step, weather had been rainy and the holiday you are simply making a tea. an anti-alcohol campaign. parties were wearing us down. A night off The Wine Guy Choosing Iron Horse for the summit was definitely in order. Put a soup spoon-sized blob of 555 Merrimon Ave. was perhaps an easy choice for a President I was feeling on the edge of ill myself, honey in your glass or mug and add (828) 254-6500 from California, and the wine is from having spent much of the day with my the hot liquid so the honey dissolves. Sonoma County’s Russian River Valley. mother, who had acute bronchitis and Add one or two ounces of Bourbon, 1200 Hendersonville Rd. Before that, in 1972, California’s Sch- talked the entire time while we were in the your preference, and squeeze in a fat (828) 277-1120 ramsberg Winery filled a federal govern- car together. I didn’t know if I had caught wedge of lemon. ment order for 13 cases of sparkling wine. any germs or if my feelings were psycho- Soon after that, President Richard Nixon somatic, but my throat was getting tight. and Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai shared a I went to Greenlife for oil of oregano toast on television to celebrate the historic (this stuff is awesome for advancing sore Even better, there’s always someone January Events at Shanghai Communiqué. Schramsberg’s throats, $25 for 60 capsules), and then I in the store, employee or customer, who the Weinhaus owners were very pleasantly surprised spent more there on cinnamon sticks and has a reliable opinion about Bourbon. Yes, when Barbara Walters told the world what lemons than I did on the Bourbon. Virginia, there is good ten-dollar Bourbon. Sunday, January 25 the heads of state were drinking. About expensive Bourbon: save it for There are a variety of ways to make Again, it was a President from Cali- when you are healthy and your taste buds a good hot toddy. The hot liquid can be A fine wine multi-course dinner fornia who was also a wine enthusiast. are uninhibited by a stupid cold. water, tea, or coffee. The liquor can be will be served by the Southside Café Our local winery, the Biltmore A former Frog Bar-tender, the Bourbon, any other whisky, brandy, or featuring the cuisine of chef John Estate, also excels at sparkling wine. Even much-missed Thomas Scott, gave good even rum. Redden and wines from the Wein- way back in the 1990’s, when their labels advice. “Cheap Bourbon is good Bour- Personally, I have no interest in a haus. Time is 6 p.m. Cost is $55 all were generic and utterly dull, the wine bon.” He was right. Next time you are toddy that is made from something other inclusive. Call the Weinhaus at (828) inside was a local best-kept secret. Today, in the ABC store, look at the lesser- than Bourbon. Call me a fool for South- 254-6453 for reservations. their packages are updated and their selec- priced choices. They don’t advertise, so ern folklore, but I do believe that Bour- tion expanded. Even their high-dollar they don’t charge you for their advertis- bon is good for the body. If the reason The Weinhaus choices are worth the money. ing. You can almost judge them by their for making a toddy is an ailing body, then 86 Patton Ave., in Asheville Biltmore has been on the White labels. My personal choice is Benchmark there is no better choice. House Menu a few times, and the news at $10 for a .750L bottle. (828) 254-6453

Free tastings are held at the Wine Guy South every Saturday, from 4 to 6 p.m. Featured wines by local distributors are 10% off that day. On-site special events coordinator available for private and corporate events. Tasting rooms can be reserved for private events. We can host wine tastings or provide and pour wines offsite for any event. 15% Discount on 12-Bottle Case. 10% Discount on Mix and Match Cases.

www.theashevillewineguy.com 555 Merrimon Ave. (828) 254-6500 1200 Hendersonville Rd. (828) 277-1120 Asheville, North Carolina

Vol. 12, No. 5 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — January 2009 29 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE Thoreau's Garden

donna. The confusion arose by Peter Loewer The Amaryllis or Hippeastrum in the United States because growers did not want ver the years I’ve been asked that this plant is a bulb that should be al- to confuse the American 1943), a mining en- more questions about keeping lowed to become dormant for at least half consumer with the correct gineer who travelled an amaryllis in bloom from year of the year. name of Hippeastrum. extensively in South to year than any other single To begin with, the amaryllis is a The genus Hippeast- America. plant question. And the biggest more or less evergreen plant that nursery O rum contains some 75 To plant an hurdle that I see is the mistaken belief suppliers and many growers allow to dry species, mostly native to amaryllis fill a pot off after flowering both for convenience Tropical America (one hails to two-thirds with in the greenhouse and for the ease of from Africa), and is some- a soil mix of pot- shipping dormant bulbs to market. times called the equestrian ting soil, peat moss, In fact, seedling plants should Peter examines the star-flower. This last name composted manure, never be dried off until they reach blossoms of early-blooming comes from Hippeus or and sand, one-quarter flowering size. If properly cared Lenten roses. knight on horseback, and each. Choose a pot no for, your amaryllis will become astron, a star. Why? Nobody larger than two inches larger every year and will con- really knows for like many names in the more than the bulb’s diameter. Bury the tinue to flower with increasing botanical world, the initial reasoning is bulb in the soil but leave the top part vigor and blatant display. lost in the mists of time. (about one-quarter) uncovered. Keep the There is confusion even with The bulbs can be left out-of-doors soil moist but not wet and set the pot in a scientific nomenclature because in the southern tip of Florida, a bit of warm spot. many people still believe that southern Texas (where it touches Mexico After the leaves appear, feed the plant Amaryllis is the correct generic and the Gulf), and a few small areas of every month during active growth and name for this popular winter California. Elsewhere this is a potted allow at least four hours of full sun with houseplant. Well, it’s a generic houseplant with a sojourn to the backyard 50°F at night and 70°F during the day. name but for a genus with but during the heat of summer. Every summer after the first year, replace one species, an entirely different In 1769 Hippeastrum vittatum was the top inch of soil with fresh, and pot on bulbous plant known as the bel- first introduced from every three years. Illustration by ladonna lily or Amaryllis Bella- Peter Loewer the Chilean Andes. In time a healthy The plants sported bulb can produce strap-shaped leaves many flowers and and up to six six- The butterfly amaryllis attain a circumfer- inch wide flowers of is described as having a ence of some 14 white with magenta blossom five and a half inches. After nights stripes. One watch- warm up and frost maker in England, by inches high and three and a danger is past, the name of Arthur half inches wide. you can place the Johnson, crossed this potted bulbs out in plant with H. reginae the garden for the – the one African summer. plant – and produced the first hybrid, now From late October to mid-Decem- called Hippeastrum x Johnsonii, or St. ber, keep the bulb slightly drier and allow Joseph’s lily, a bulb that produced three a rest. When you wish to start bloom, or four tubular flowers of brilliant scarlet, bring the pot into a warm place. When streaked with white. the flower stalk is some 6 inches high, Using this plant as a starter, Dutch place the plant in a sunny window. hybridizers have produced the ‘Leopoldii If you wish to store the bulbs, in Sep- hybrid’ bulbs that bear flowers of almost tember withhold water completely and all colors except blue. So today when you allow the leaves to turn yellow and die see an amaryllis advertised for home or back. When completely brown, cut them greenhouse, it’s usually a descendant of off at the top of the bulb. Dormant bulbs one of these plants. and pots are best stored on their sides in Sometimes an entirely new bulb a place with temperatures no lower than appears on the plant horizon. The but- 40°F. To start flowering add water and terfly amaryllis (Hippeastrum papilion) bring to a warm room. is described as having a blossom five and Remove the flowers after blossoming a half inches high and three and a half is completed unless you wish to set seed. inches wide with a background color of Don’t worry about the water that seeps white, lightly touched with soft green and out of the sheared stalk – it will soon stop. having crimson-maroon markings radiat- Amaryllis from Seed ing from the throat. Cross-pollinating your own amaryllis As for a lacking of a blue flower, for hybrids is a fascinating hobby. Try to pick years horticulturists and nurserymen have two parents of pure color – a red with touted the fabulous blue amaryllis Hip- another shade of red or bright orange peastrum procerum, but this turns out to with a dark orange – since hybridizers say be Worsleya Rayneri, a one species genus this gives the best results. Using a small, from Brazil. This long-necked bulb was named after Arthington Worsley (1861- ‘Amaryllis’ continued on pg. 33

30 January 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE ARTFUL LIVING

Personal Evolution “If I hadn’t learned how to live have to admit, I have strong res- by Bill Walz without a culture and a society, the ervations about “psychotherapy”. I always have. I was trained and acculturation process would have practiced as a clinical psycholo- about, but that’s not what you’re broken my heart a thousand times.” gist for years, but was never very likely to get when going to a I professional psychothera- comfortable with the model. When I was ~ Kurt Vonnegut in the in college in the late 60’s, I discussed my pist, so I stopped identify- voice of Kilgore Trout reservations with the chairman of the ing myself as one. I really Psychology Department. believe it would be more I told him, that I didn’t want to be appropriate to call the pro- part of a profession that seemed to do no fession as practiced today, of Buddhism because identity, and that is what I am about. A more than patch up people that society mental/social habilitation. it is the exploration liberating New Year to you. had screwed-up so they could resume That is definitely not me. of “awakening” their place within the society that screwed So, when asked, I into a hu- say that I do “per- them up in the first place. I also had an man being’s Bill Walz is a UNCA adjunct intuitive mistrust of Freudian analysis sonal evolution”, trans-cultural, faculty member and a private- and behaviorism. It all seemed to lack a the exploration of trans-egoic practice teacher of mindful- deeper insight and compassion for the the fulfillment of place within ness, personal growth and universal human condition. a person’s under- the Universe, consciousness. standing of their Don’t get me wrong, I do see the in the eter- He holds a weekly meditation value in psychotherapy for exactly the placement and nity of the class, Mondays, 7 p.m., at the purposes I object to, and am not telling potential in present Friends Meeting House, 227 Edgewood. In- others to not practice or receive it, it’s just an unfold- moment formation on classes, personal growth and that I was and am interested in something ing universe. and the healing instruction, or phone consultations else. I was and am interested in what the This does, of unfold- at (828) 258-3241, or e-mail healing@ billwalz.com. Visit www.billwalz.com wisdom and sanity potential for a human course, have ing of being and the human species is. With its implications for time. Buddhism, that, in college, I chose to pursue Cultural healthier relating in the so- as a psychology, attracts me because it is Anthropology rather than Psychology. cial/family context, but not necessarily in primarily the exploration of the nature That same professor, however, intro- a way most of today’s psychotherapists or of human suffering, not only at a per- duced me to the humanist psychology of counselors would relate to. I am back to sonal level with an insight that Western Carl Rogers and Rogers’ student, Sydney being an existentialist/human potentialist. psychology lacks, but at an existential, Jourard, the existentialism of Rollo May, I am deeply curious and inspired by transpersonal, universal level that really and the human potential Gestalt psychol- the question of what human potential does address the evolutionary journey of ogy of Fritz Perls. I came to know there really is, not in an intellectual, scientific being human. were those within psychology who had a sense, but in the dimension that can only This Buddhist “awakening” is the very different track than the analysts and be called wisdom, a deep knowing of our realization, as Kurt Vonnegut shares, of the behaviorists I was suspicious of, and placement in this mystery of life. With how heart-breaking it can be to be- eventually, it was this existentialist/hu- that, must come an exploration of the lieve that what society and culture have man potential modality combined with a phenomenon of consciousness, the core conditioned into us are the limits of who strong training in clinical practice that I of who we are and our connection to life, we are. It is the realization of an unfold- took professionally. with meditation and mindfulness as the ing evolution of human consciousness Over the years, however, my an- necessary methodology. that places the personal within a vast and thropologist beginnings called to me ever I am drawn to the concept of evolu- grand perspective that includes the heart- stronger, as my early concerns about the tion because it brings a macro-perspective break without breaking our hearts. profession of psychology seemed to be in- that places the personal dimension of you It is about escaping the mental tread- creasingly confirmed, and the humanists, and me living our ordinary lives within a mill of relentlessly reconstructing our existentialists, human potentialists, and truly liberating view. As a student of an- mental/social programming, to awaken even the analysts of newer more insight- thropology, I am drawn to the psychology into a much larger, deeper and liberated ful schools, were marginalized more and more. I became convinced that exploring non-Western wisdom traditions combined with an anthropological exploration of the evolution of human consciousness, A Spiritual Survival Guide for Gay & Lesbian Christians rather than any traditional psychology, held the secret to personal sanity in the Saturday, January 17, 7:00 p.m. to GLBT ears is the same: “God hates modern world. Minister Candace Chellew-Hodge you and so do we.” In truth, it’s not the idea of psycho- presents her book Bulletproof Faith: A In such a toxic religious environ- therapy in its purest sense that’s so unap- Spiritual Survival Guide for Gay and ment, many GLBT people abandon pealing to me; it is what the profession Lesbian Christians. their faith, believing that God hates became. I see it now more than ever as an A refrain heard relentlessly by them or at the very least will not love instrument of socialization rather than an gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender them unless they give up or deny their exploration of healing the “soul/mind”, as people of faith is: “God hates fags.” sexual orientation. the word “psychology” in its Greek ori- Whether it’s hurled as a direct insult or At Malaprops Bookstore, 55 gins implies. “Psychotherapy” as a healing stated more subtly in a “Love the sin- Haywood Street, Asheville, NC. Phone of the soul/mind is exactly what I care ner, hate the sin” theology, the message (828) 254-6734 for more information.

Vol. 12, No. 5 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — January 2009 31 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE Joe’s brew Notes Brusin’ Ales: A Mecca for Beer Enthusiasts Brew News hether you have a passion for by Joe Zinich beer or not, a stop at Brusin’ Saturday, January 24, 2009 Ales is a must when you visit The couple 2nd Annual Winter Warmer downtown Asheville. With Beer Festival over 700 different styles of met in college The first festival was filled with beer just browsing the shelves where they, as beer (all our local breweries), live Wfor label art is fun. Even better, ask the most collegians, music, food and people of good friendly, knowledgeable staff to help you drank mass-pro- cheer; a fun event. The second festi- select just the right beers to suit your duced beer. A val is planned to be bigger and better. tastes and social plans. friend treated them It will be held at the Haywood Park Jason and Julie Atallah, co-owners to a Belgian beer, Hotel ballroom and features all 9 of Brusin’ Ales, are ardent beer con- Chimay, which local breweries, 4 from the Piedmont noisseurs. They opened their store in excited their taste and Durham areas, and 3 from Nash- 2006 and used their knowledge of beer buds and awak- ville, TN. Expect excellent live music to promote the enjoyment of its many ened their interest. with time to socialize and enjoy the styles and flavors. It’s a store that contains After graduation, food and flavors of some great beers; only beer and beer paraphernalia (glass- jobs took them an energizing winter respite. ware, books, T-shirts, etc.). They select to Charlotte NC beers from around the world (many of where that inter- Information and tickets: which cannot be found in Asheville or est developed into brewscruise.com/beerfest zeal. They Customers browsing the selection. (828) 545-5181 re- searched beers and traveled miles to stock their favorites and find new ones to breweries and their beers. evaluate. Along the way they For example, the in-store learned to cook with beer and tastings held every other shared their growing knowledge Thursday are mostly free and beer discoveries with friends with a selection of snacks and family. paired with the featured With their desire to start a beer. A representative business, their appreciation of of the brewery (staff or Asheville, and its beer commu- distributor) is on hand nity, they started Brusin’ Ales to describe and serve the soon after the change in NC beers. Also, beer dinners From left: Adam Avery of Avery Brewing Co., Julie beer laws. The business is based are held quarterly where and Jason Atallah at a Thursday night tasting. on their enthusiasm for and a brewery spokesperson, knowledge of beer plus a sincere between courses, explains the surrounding area) and also feature desire to share the information with the particular beer and all available beers from local breweries. their customers. The store reflects their food pairings. As testimony to their approach, the store expertise and desire to provide custom- Bruisn’ Ales with its was recently rated as the number 2 beer- ers with a broad selection in a friendly selection, expertise, and retail-outlet in the world (yes, world) as atmosphere. Welcome to Brusin’ Ales. service is a first rate store seen at ratebeer.com. Visit Brusin’ Ales and enter a neat, to visit whether you’re a beer fan or fanatic. Visit clean, and compact store. To your imme- anytime (preferably when they’re open) diate left is a large monk with a belly-full or try their Thursday tasting night – great of beer (bottles). Beyond is an extensive company, free snacks and well-chosen selection of glassware, books, T-shirts, beers are tough to beat. and other beer-related items. The store’s center has a check-out area tended by a ready-to-help staff member. Immediately Brusin’ Ales on your right is a cooler filled with bottles and growlers from our local breweries. 66 Broadway Street Asheville, NC 28801 Further in is an alcove designed for tastings and wall and floor racks (828) 252.8999 with displays (out of the direct sunlight Brusin-ales.com – bad for beer) of bottle after bottle of the world’s finest beers. Expect to find Belgian, German, British Isles, American Craft, Local/Regional Craft, and World- For five years, Joe Zinich Beer sections. The most expensive beer has been taking a self- guided, high-intensity tour stocked is $50/bottle. The highest alcohol of Asheville’s beer world. content is 14.6%. Contact him at: jzinich@ Jason and Julie also organize local bellsouth.net events to introduce consumers to various

32 January 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE STAGE PREVIEW Famed ‘Dancing’ Lipizzaner Auditions for Narnia Stallions to Perform at WCU Asheville Community Theatre Those auditioning should will hold auditions for the musical prepare 16 bars of a song of their ickets are now on sale now for Narnia on Sunday, January 4 and choosing and bring the sheet music by Jill Ingram a performance by the venerable Monday, January 5 from 7 to 9 p.m. to the audition. Lipizzaner Stallions at Western Narnia will be directed by Cindy For more information please visit Carolina University. Lipizzaners are known for their speed, Baldwin with musical direction by the Asheville Community Theatre The famed “dancing white strength and agility. With a life span of Linda Walker. Roles are available for Web site at www.ashevilletheatre.org. T 30 to 35 years, Lipizzaners typically are 16+ people ages 8 and up. stallions” will perform at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, January 15, at Ramsey Re- born with black coats that turn white over gional Activity Center on the WCU the next decade. During World War II, campus. More than 25 million people worldwide have experienced the Lipiz- zaner tour, which travels to more than 140 cities per year and features fresh music and choreography, including a number set to big band music of the swing era. The Lipiz- zaner tour, in its 39th year, features 12 to 14 stallions and their riders performing an “equine ballet” of selected maneuvers, The world famous Lipizzaner Stallions will perform including a seg- January 15 at Ramsey Regional Activity Center on the ment called “Airs campus of Western Carolina University. above the Ground.” Originating on the battlefield, “Airs above the Ground” Gen. George S. Patton acted to ensure includes the capriole, where the horse the safety of the Lipizzaner population, leaps into the air, draws his forelegs under depicted in the Disney film “The Miracle his chest and kicks with his hind legs; the of the White Stallions.” courbette, where the horse hops on his hind legs; and the levade, where the horse balances in a crouched position. If u Ticket prices are $24.50 and The performance finale features stal- Yo $19.50, with $2 discounts for lions and their riders executing the highest Go: people 60 and older, 12 and levels of dressage. “Audiences share in the younger and groups of 15 magic when they see nostrils flare and tails or more. Tickets are available at the fly as the powerful horses perform their Ramsey Center box office, open 10 a.m. to acrobatics,” writes the Dayton Daily News. 5 p.m. Monday through Friday; by calling A rare breed with a storied history (828) 227-7722; toll free at (866) 928-3378; and 400-year-old European pedigree, or online by visiting ramsey.wcu.edu. Wireless Internet Access! ‘The Amaryllis’ continued from pg. 30 65°F, seeds should germinate within ten to fifteen days. When seedlings are old clean watercolor brush, take pollen from enough to handle, place ten in a six-inch the anthers of one flower and brush some pot and keep them in a warm place. on the stigma of the second. Separate the When the leaves are six inches long, Delicious recipient plant and remove its anthers so pot each plant individually in a four-inch Specialty Pizzas no other pollen is involved. pot using the recommended mix. Re- When the pods ripen and burst, black member, until they flower for the first (828) 236-9800 Spring Water Dough seeds will appear, stacked like slices of time, never let them dry out. Appetizing Salads bread. Sow seeds in sphagnum moss or a Be sure and keep accurate records of Open 7 Days a Week Fresh-Baked Calzones good prepared mix, covering them lightly. your trials and errors. Hoagies & Pretzels Using a germination temperature of 60 to 50 Broadway ~ Asheville, NC Healthy Ingredients Vol. 12, No. 5 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — January 2009 33 RAPID RIVER ARTS Buried classes in UNCA’s Great Smokies Writing Credit Card Debt? Program Winter Workshops ocal writers will have the oppor- by Dr. Elaine Fox Over $10,000 in credit card bills? tunity to hone their skills with the Great Smokies Writing Program’s Only making the minimum payments? series of ten courses in poetry and ative Prose Workshop” at the Asheville prose. The classes, held at vary- School from 6-8:30 p.m. for 15 consecu- L tive Wednesdays beginning January 28. ing locations in Asheville and at two new We can get you out of debt in months locations in Hendersonville and Burns- The course is for advanced prose writ- instead of years ville, are open to writers of varying levels. ers working on something new in either Students will earn UNC Asheville credit fiction or memoir. Prospective students We can save you thousands of dollars hours in Literature and Language. must receive permission to enroll by con- tacting Hays at [email protected]. We can help you avoid bankruptcy Noted prose author Elizabeth Lu- tyens will lead “The Prose Master Class” UNC Asheville tuition and fees are at the Asheville School, located off Patton $172.12 for two-credit-hour courses and Not a high-priced consolidation loan or one of Ave., from 6-8:30 p.m. for 15 consecu- $258.18 for three-credit-hour courses for tive Tuesdays beginning January 27. This applicants who meet North Carolina resi- those consumer credit counseling programs course is designed for students who have dency requirements. In addition, there is studied with Lutyens. The workshop is a one-time visiting student application fee Call limited to experienced writers who are of $20. Class size is limited; early registra- working on essays, stories, a novel or tion is suggested. redit ard elief a memoir. Admission to the class is by C C r invitation only. For more information or to register, call for your FREE consultation Great Smokies Writing Program UNC Asheville’s Extension and Distance Edu- Director Tommy Hays will lead “Keeping cation Office at (828) 232-5122 or email Not available Ourselves Company: An Advanced Cre- [email protected]. in all states 800-845-8758

34 January 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS classes Art Classes with John Mac Kah

andscape artist and painter, John Mac Kah, will start 2009 with two new series of classes: Introduction to Painting in Oils and Drawing L for Painters. Both are for students of any skill levels interested in best use of traditional materials to create artisanal paintings. If you wish to take advantage of oil paint’s unique character and deepen your drawing skills, here’s your opportunity. 12 week sessions beginning Saturday, Janu- ary 12, 2009. Weather permitting, after starting in John’s studio in the historic River Arts $60 deposit required. Contact (828) 225- District, students will work on location in 5000 or [email protected] city parks and gardens. Space is limited.

Classes at Cloth Fiber Workshop loth Fiber Workshop is a textile arts learning center that offers a variety of classes and workshops for students of all experience levels. Cloth’s working fiber studio lets students, artists and customers express their creativity while learning new skills. In addition, our retail shop sells organic and sustainable fabric, yarn, no- C tions, dyes, wearables and home furnishings by BZDesign. Saturday & Sunday, Saturday & Sunday, January 24 & 25 January 10 & 11 Beautiful Wrap Skirts with Low-Tech Screen Handmade Fabric Printing Learn to make a versatile thigh-length Unlock the myster- wrap skirt with outside pockets and but- ies of screen printing ton closures. The pattern is simple; you’ll by learning low-tech tailor it to your size and take it home with processes to print you. We’ll design the fabric using dyes anything from t-shirts and paints, creating a one-of-a-kind gar- to fabric yardage. We ment with embellishments. The finished will build our own skirt is fun, classy, and comfortable. screens and print with them using various Hours: Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., stencil methods: screen filler, drawing Sunday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. fluid, wax texture rubbings, shelf paper, Instructor: Jude Stuecker photo emulsion, and more. Fee: $180 + materials Hours: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Instructor: Jen Swearington Friday, Saturday & Sunday, Fee: $180 + materials January 30, 31 & February 1 Stitching Stories: Narrative Art Quilts Friday, January 16 Incorporating imagery from your imagi- 2-D Felting nation, observations, and memories, work Foundations with various drawing media and fabric Designed for the collage to create a small personal art quilt. beginner, this course Along the way, learn the techniques of will provide a founda- piecing, appliqué, embellishing, quilting, tion of the materials binding, and displaying an art quilt. and processes for Hours: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. 2-D felting. Newly Instructor: Jen Swearington acquired skills will Fee: $260 + materials be implemented to create a finely crafted felt scarf and inspire exploration for future felting endeavors Cloth Fiber Workshop, LLC, Barbara Za- and experienced courses. retsky, Director, 51 Thompson St, Suite D, Hours: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Asheville, NC. (828) 505-2958 Instructor: Lisa Klakulak [email protected], visit Fee: $95 + materials www.clothfiberworkshop.com.

Vol. 12, No. 5 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — January 2009 35 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE WHAT TO DO GUIDE ™

January 1 - 31 is required to volunteer. The Wintertime Sale Orientation Session should last no longer than an hour and will Asheville WNC Theatre League’s WICKWIRE fine art/folk art “… include a tour of the theatre. where the heart finds art,” brings Playback Theatre 8th Annual Unified Auditions in the New Year with distinctive For more information please visit art choices to endure a lifetime. the Asheville Community The- January 2, 2009 A-B Tech will host the 2009 Pre-register by emailing info@ Ever-beautiful original paint- atre Web site at www.asheville- Playback Alchemy – 8 p.m. Western North Carolina montfordparkplayers.org or ings, American handmade craft, theatre.org. at NC Stage. An evening Theatre League Unified Audi- by mail with 30 copies of your handcrafted furniture, stunning of interactive experiment & tions at Ferguson Auditorium. photo/headshot and resume jewelry and more by emerging January 6, 13, 27 performance. The annual event allows local to Unified Auditions, Attn: and recognized artists for family, actors to showcase their talents John Russell, P.O. Box 2663, friends, home and office décor. Asheville Civitan January 3, 2009 in a professional audition set- Asheville, NC , 28802-2663. Programs Kids Know It All! – 2 p.m. WICKWIRE fine art/folk art, 330 ting for a variety of companies Please indicate your preference This is the 88th year Civitan has at NC Stage. For kids and throughout the region. for Friday evening or Saturday N. Main, Hendersonville, NC. been in Asheville. Our motto, everyone else too. Open 7 days, and the first Friday afternoon. Please indicate your “Builders of Good Citizenship,” The purpose of the Uni- age and if you will be singing. of every month (gallery stroll leads us to present programs of January 3, 2009 fied Auditions is to develop evening on Main Street) until interest to the community. Forbidden Stories – 9 p.m. at a database of local actors and Registration begins at 5 p.m on 9 p.m. (828) 692-6222, email NC Stage. For adults only. technical artists for regional, Wednesday, February 20 for [email protected] or visit January programs: community and professional actors, 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, www.wickwireartgallery.com. January 6 – Susan Fisher Playback Theatre is un- companies. February 23 for designers, January 13 – Terry Bellamy like traditional theatre; at a directors and technicians, and January 27 – Al Whitesides playback show you will en- The schedule for the Unified 11 a.m. Saturday for actors. Tuesday, January 6 counter real life rather than Auditions is as follows: Asheville Civitan meets at noon An instructional meeting will Volunteer Orientation a scripted production. The take place approximately 15 Session every Tuesday at Trinity Epis- actors improvise, guided and copal Church. If you would like Friday, February 20 minutes before each audition Asheville Community Theatre inspired by true life stories 6 p.m., Auditions session. to see more community leaders contributed by the audience. will hold a Volunteer Orienta- present their program and plans, tion Session at 6:30 p.m. at the In the course of an evening, An Audition Informa- please join us for lunch. Lunch the individual’s experience Saturday, February 21 tion Workshop will be held downtown theatre. All who are is $8.50. Call (828) 348-4222 to 10:00 – 11:30 a.m., Technical interested in volunteering at is heard and honored, the Wednesday, February 4 at 6 RSVP. personal is connected to the interviews, designers, direc- p.m. at A-B Tech’s Ferguson ACT are invited to attend. No tors, stage managers, musicians previous experience in theatre universal, and an opportunity Auditorium, 340 Victoria Rd, January 15-17 is created for new learning as and technicians Asheville. Actors will hear from a panel of directors and Take the Foot RX Ten-Ten a result. 11:30 am – 12:30 p.m., How to place an event/ Lunch Break and mingle time casting agents on effective au- Treadmill Challenge! Performance Schedule ditioning techniques and what classified listing with The challenge is 10% grade on January 16 at the BeBe 12:30 p.m. – 4:45 p.m., to expect at the auditions. Rapid River Art Magazine the treadmill for 10 minutes Theatre, 20 Commerce St., Auditions at whatever speed you choose. Asheville (8 p.m.) The following companies have Any “free” event open to the public Actors are asked to prepare attended past WNC Theatre can be listed at no charge up to 30 Distance covered will determine 90 seconds of material: one the overall places. February 8 at the YWCA, League Unified Auditions: words. For all other events there is 185 S. French Broad Avenue, monologue OR two contrast- a $9.95 charge up to 30 words and North Carolina Stage Company, Five exciting divisions to choose Asheville (3 p.m.) ing monologues OR mono- Bright Star Children’s Theatre, 10 cents for each additional word. from: Open, Elite, Master’s, Cou- logue and 16 bars of a song. An 160 word limit per event. March 20 at the BeBe The- BellaLuna Theater, Flat Rock ples, and Junior. Awards to top accompanist will be available. Playhouse, Burning Coal Theatre, Sponsored listings (shown in three male and female finishers in atre, 20 Commerce St., Ashe- Please bring your own sheet boxes) can be purchased for $12 ville (8 p.m.) Holderness Theatre (NYC), per column inch. each division. Awards ceremony music in your key, as the ac- Poetry Alive!, Highland Reper- and celebration will be held at 5 April 12 at the YWCA, 185 companist will not transpose. tory Theatre, immediate theatre Deadline is the 19th of each p.m. on Saturday, January 17. project, Martin & Donalds Talent month. Payment must be made S. French Broad Avenue, Children will audition sepa- prior to printing. Exciting prizes include: a Free Asheville (3 p.m.) rately, and should present a Agency, Inc., Parkway Playhouse, Brevard Little Theatre, Blowing Email Beth Gossett at: pair of Inov-8 F-Lite 300’s to the $10 ($5 student/seniors), no memorized selection, poem, Rock Stage Company, Serpent [email protected] or person who gets closest to guess- one turned away for lack of rhyme, monologue, and, if Child Ensemble, Hendersonville mail to: 85 N. Main St, Canton, ing the distance they cover; free funds. Visit www.ashevil- they wish, sing a song. Singing Little Theatre, Asheville Commu- NC 28716. Or Call: (828) 646- pair of Inov-8 shoes to overall leplayback.org or contact Ra- to tapes is not allowed. nity Theatre, Bittersweet Produc- 0071 to place ad over the phone. male and female winners. And phael Peter (828) 670-5881 Actors must also mail, by tions, Barter Theatre (Abingdon, – Disclaimer – much more. for more information. February 11, 30 copies of a VA), North Carolina Theatre Due to the overwhelming number of Free Entry. Call (828) 277-5151 photo/headshot and resume Conference, Haywood Arts local event submissions we get for our NC Stage Regional Theatre, Talent Trek, Or email Aaron at aaron@footrx. 15 Stage Lane for distribution to the different “What to Do Guide” each month, we com to reserve your time slot. companies. Designers, direc- Southern Appalachian Repertory can no longer accept entries that do not (opposite Zambra’s) Theatre, Asheville: The Movie, specifically follow our publication’s Asheville, NC. tors, stage managers, musicians HCC Film and Video Production format. Non-paid event listings must January 17 and technicians should email Technology, Scapegoat Theatre be 30 words or less and both paid and for an interview slot and mail Collective, The Montford Park non-paid listings must provide infor- Auditions 30 resumes and appropriate vi- Players, (Spartanburg, SC), Little mation in the following format: date, From 2 to 4 p.m. at Asheville men who founded AA. Prepared sual materials; there will ample time, brief description of what your Theatre, Asheville Storytelling Community Theater. 2 men, 2 auditions, experienced actors. opportunity to speak with Circle, Paris Model and Talent, event is and any contact information. Performance will be held in April Any entries not following this format women (35-55). 1 man, 1 woman companies and field questions. Unto These Hills. will not be considered for publication. (multiple roles 25-45). Bill W. 2009. Contact jerichoproduc- and Dr. Bob, the story of the 2 [email protected]. January Events ~ Announcements ~ Classifieds

36 January 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE WHAT TO DO GUIDE ™

Winter Classes at UNC Asheville’s January Calendar Asheville Art Museum’s River’s Edge Studio January Events Sunday, January 18 Wednesday, January 28 Oil Painting Basics I Writers at Home UNC Asheville vs. Winthrop, 7 p.m., Sunday, January 11 Wednesday, January 28 - Readings by Great Smokies Writing UNC Asheville’s Justice Center, $15 re- Art Adventurers: Collections & Obsessions. March 25, 9:30 – 12:30 served or $10 general admission. Call (828) Several fascinating and eclectic collections Program students, 3 p.m., Malaprop’s 251-6459 for more information. Get started with oil paint! Bookstore/Café, 55 Haywood St., down- including regional studio craft and the metal Nine classes plus a private town Asheville, free. Call (828) 232-5122 sculptures of Stebbo. The day will end with a one hour class to be sched- for more information. Friday, January 30 reception with wine and appetizers. Con- uled with student. Class Lead Safe Work Training tact Rebecca Lynch-Maass for information taught by Fleta Monaghan. Tuesday, January 20 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Asheville Friends or reservations, (828) 253-3227, ext. 114 or Tuition: $325. [email protected]. Great Quotes Philosophy Lecture Meeting House, 227 Edgewood Rd., Asheville, $100. Sponsored by UNC Color Mixing Basics “Neo-Confucianism,” Dr. Cynthia Ho, Friday, January 16, 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. Asheville’s Lead Poisoning Prevention Art Break, William Christenberry: Site/Pos- Saturday, January 17, 9:30 7:30 p.m., UNC Asheville’s Kellogg Cen- Program. Call (828) 251-6104 for more - 2:30 ter, 11 Broyles Rd., Hendersonville, $5. session Docent-Led Tour. In addition to 50 Call (828) 251-6272 for more information. information or to register. drawings, the exhibition also features paint- Color Contrast Basics ings, photographs, constructions. Free with Saturday, January 31, 9:30 Wednesday, January 28 Saturday, January 31 museum membership or admission. – 2:30 UNC Asheville Women vs. Winthrop, Music from the Baroque 2 p.m., UNC Asheville’s Justice Center, Friday, January 16, 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Learn about color relation- 12:45 p.m., UNC Asheville’s Lipinsky $8 reserved or $6 general admission. Call Christo and Jeanne-Claude: Projects Open- ships and create Bauhaus Auditorium, free. Call (828) 251-6432. (828) 251-6459 for more information. ing Reception. Free with museum member- style paintings in this class. ship or admission. Tuition for weekend one-day workshops: $75. Use class Saturday, January 24 – February 12 acrylics and supplies for an WNC Regional Scholastic Art Awards Exhi- added $10 material fee, or bition, Pack Place Community Gallery. bring your own. A supply Best in Show by Phil Juliano list will be provided. $395 Sunday, January 25, 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. for complete five session Pianoforte Series: Andrea Adamcova and Weekend Basics course and Pavel Wlosok. $4 members, $4 + museum one hour private class. admission non-members. Gallery 6. This Call Fleta Monaghan at (828) program will feature classical pieces per- 776-2716 or email fleta@ formed by Andrea, and jazz piano performed fletamonaghan.com for more by Pavel. Limited seating. For more infor- information or visit www. mation or to reserve tickets contact Nancy fletamonaghan.com. Sokolove (828) 253-3227, ext. 120 or email [email protected]. Friday, January 30, 5:00 p.m. Corgi Tales by Phil Hawkins Eva Zeisel: The Shape of Life opens. The Get Your Name inspiration for Zeisel’s sensuous forms often comes from the natural organic curves of the on a Picket body. Zeisel’s designs — furniture, metal, glass or ceramic — are often made in sets or Waynesville Parks and Rec- in relationship to other objects. reation Department offers an opportunity to have your Sunday, February 8, 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. name engraved on a picket at Eva Zeisel: The Shape of Life, and George the Recreation Park Kiwanis Masa: Mapping the Mountains. Opening Playground in Waynesville. Reception for these exciting exhibitions as The cost is $25 a picket. well as gallery tours. There is enough room for 25 Centrally located in downtown Asheville on characters on a long picket Callie & Cats by Amy Downs Pack Square, the Museum is open 10 a.m. or 18 characters on a short to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday and 1 picket. The pickets are a part p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. The Museum is of the fence that surrounds open every Friday until 8 p.m. the playground. Admission to the Museum is $6 for adults For more information please and $5 for seniors, students with ID and call the Waynesville Parks and Recreation Department for children 4-15 (children age three and at (828) 456-2030 or email younger are admitted free). Museum is open recdirector@townofwaynes- free to the public every first Wednesday of ville.org the month, 3 to 5 p.m.

Classes ~ Lectures ~ arts & crafts ~ readings

Vol. 12, No. 5 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — January 2009 37 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE on the scene

successful benefit concerts journey from the brink of Bringing Back the Dead to help pay his spiraling death to renewed strength medical expenses and keep and artistic creativity. The Recovery and Redemption of Alejandro Escovedo his music before the public, Escovedo’s music has shows which led to a 2004 been widely lauded by tribute album, Por Vida: the media, appearing in he roots of Alejandro Escovedo’s by James Cassara A Tribute to the Songs of several high-profile publi- family tree run deep and strong Alejandro Escovedo. cations including Rolling and include such notables as San- The new outfit recorded a pair of Two years later Stone, Vanity Fair, The tana percussionist Pete Escovedo albums for EMI and toured the country Escovedo released Boxing New York Times, USA and Pete’s daughter Sheila E, (often as an opening act for Los Lobos) but Mirror while touring in Today, PASTE, HARP former drummer for Prince and the label’s decision not to release their sec- support of the album with and Entertainment Week- Tlater a pop star in her own right. ond album led to the group’s breakup. The the newly formed Alejan- ly. In April of this year Alejandro began his music career album eventually surfaced as a bonus item dro Escovedo String Quin- he was invited onstage during the mid 1970’s punk explosion, when Rykodisc reissued the first set on tet. His next album, Real by Bruce Springsteen to helping form the San Francisco based CD, but by then the group was long gone. Animal, produced by the join him and The E Street band The Nuns before landing briefly in After he parted ways with Rykodisc, legendary Tony Visconti Band, playing before a NYC. Once there he quickly established Escovedo signed in 1998 with the Chi- (David Bowie, T. Rex) was released by packed Toyota Center in Houston. himself as one of the area’s most innova- cago-based alt-country label Bloodshot, Back Porch Music in June of this year. In short, 2008 has been a banner year tive new arrivals while co-founding the which released the live album More Miles A collective journey through Esco- for the re-energized musician. On Friday, pioneering cow punk band Rank and File. Than Money: Live 1994-1996 and the vedo’s various musical incarnations from January 23 Alejandro Escovedo brings his The band relocated to the then newly highly praised studio set A Man Under punk rock to string quintets, Real Animal lifetime of influence, heritage, and talent emerging music scene of Austin, Texas, the Influence. But the constant touring leans more towards the hard rocking side. to Asheville. whereupon they were almost immediately had taken a heavy toll. It’s as introspective as it is retrospective, signed to Slash Records. Their 1982 debut In April 2003, following a show recalling the musicians and places that album Sundown garnered critical acclaim in Phoenix, Escovedo collapsed; it was helped shape his career. Real Animal rep- and surprising radio exposure, but the If Alejandro Escovedo at The subsequently revealed that he had been resents the primitive aspect of Escovedo’s Grey Eagle, on Friday, Janu- ever restless Escovedo again felt a desire diagnosed with Hepatitis C in late ‘90s but music - the instinct, the urgency and a You to move on: he left the band to form the ary 23, beginning at 9 p.m. $18 had not sought treatment. An outpouring survivor mentality that fuels his musi- Go: advance/$20 day of show. True Believers with his brother Javier. of support from musicians led to a series of cal passion. It further traces Escovedo’s

Inauguration Celebration “Sol Driven Train” Performs Tuesday, January 20

ome and Celebrate the election Erin Scholze of Barack Obama as the next American President! Sol Driven Train has the “Live on the Outer Banks” was momentum of their hard work recorded in one night at one of the band’s and heartfelt music to pro- favorite coastal tour destinations. Released Cpel them upward. At shows, the band in January of 2007, this live album “cap- members bounce to the pulse of the tures the band’s strongest elements: tight music along with the crowd. Stylistically horn arrangements and complex, un- the band “seamlessly mixes Allmanesque forced vocal harmonies . . . crisp accents Southern rock, languid world-beat, and tasty cymbal work tie in perfectly swampy funk and downright catchy with precise bass licks.” (Charleston City melodies as they swap lead singers and Paper, 1/24/07) instruments. A punchy horn section adds By the time the band released the live an extra dimension of sweaty soul to the album, work was already under way on a genre-blurring jam party.” (Atlanta Cre- new studio album. The band sandwiched ative Loafing, 11/21/06). recording sessions between gigs, and set All that sweat is paying off for Sol up their mobile recording studio wherev- Driven Train. With their honest song- er they could along the way. The album, writing and energetic live performances, “Lighthouse” was released on April 8, they are attracting fans devoted to wit- 2008, and is gathering praise from fans nessing their musical progression. and critics alike. They have shared stages and bills with a diverse array of artists including If Micheal Franti, Richie Havens, Keller Sol Driven Train, Tuesday, Williams, The Samples, Blueground You o: January 20 at The Grey Eagle, Undergrass, Billy Jonas, Ryan Montbleau, G 185 Clingman Ave. All ages. and Arlo Guthrie. Covering an expanding Showtime 9 p.m. Tickets: $6 tour area that stretches from Georgia to advance - $8 day of show. For more New Hampshire to Wisconsin, the band information call (828) 232-5800, visit www. has independently recorded and produced thegreyeagle.com, www.soldriventrain.com, three albums along the way. or www.myspace.com/soldriventrain.

38 January 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS noteworthy Tupelo Honey Café Launches E-Commerce Site for Employees Profits to Pay for Health Care Benefits

As runaway health care costs by Jonathan Scott continue to outpace inflation, businesses nationwide are strug- The merchandising program and e- gling to provide health benefits to commerce site are perks for patrons of the A their employees. One Asheville restaurant, too. People from Massachusetts restaurant has found a creative solution, to Miami regularly order Tupelo’s special with the ambitious goal of fully funding brand of fair-trade coffee, a unique and ex- its employees health insurance plan from clusive blend of Costa Rican beans sourced a new profit stream. through Asheville Coffee Roasters. Tupelo Honey Café is launching In addition, the restaurant’s local hon- an e-commerce site and dedicating all ey is sold online, and other food items will of the profits from it to fund an HMO be added during the next several weeks, in- plan for employees who work at least 25 cluding its signature jams and jellies, honey hours a week. The restaurant will offer butter and rosemary peach lemonade. the insurance to employees as soon as And there’s a wide variety of THC the site generates $60,000 in profits, the merchandise for sale online and at the res- annual estimated cost of the plan for its taurant, from coffee mugs and travel mugs 47 employees. to hats, t-shirts, hoodies and infant onesies. “In the meantime, our employees can “Two very popular items this Christ- continue to take advantage of our current mas Season are our gift baskets and our health plan, which reimburses managers 80 gift cards,” Frabitore said. “Gift cards are percent and employees 50 percent of their available in ten-dollar increments, and gift monthly health insurance premiums,” said baskets range from $21.99 to $44.99.” Proprietor Stephen Frabitore. “Compared with a lot of restaurants, we already have a About Tupelo Honey Café good plan; but we want to do more and are Tupelo Honey Café’s mission is to confident that through merchandising and create a charming atmosphere with in- e-commerce, we can fully fund our HMO novative Southern cuisine, emphasizing beginning in late 2009.” quality, selection and excellent service. A Offering health insurance is a perk locally owned café, it has quickly distin- Is the Air that will enable Tupelo Honey Café to guished itself from other regional res- recruit and retain employees, Frabitore taurants by presenting familiar, creative added. “Restaurants are notorious for hav- comfort fare, healthier options, fresh in- in Your Home ing high turnover, so the health care plan gredients and large portions at a fair price. is another way Tupelo Honey Café will Featuring the work of local artists, the be able to reduce that,” he said. restaurant’s interior has been described Making You Sick? “We have invested significant re- by The New York Times as “an old-fash- sources in the packaging and design of ioned tea room.” Tupelo Honey Café also Trapped Moisture and Gases trendy products to drive the initiative. has been featured in Southern Living and We’re planning to provide a platinum-lev- Our State and is consistently voted one Can Be Harmful! el health plan with the lowest deductibles of the “Best Restaurants” by Mountain and co-pays that we possibly can.” Xpress. Remove Unhealthy Air

Moisture Control Unit Reduce Molds and Musty Odors

Classes & Lectures at Earth Fare • Expels stale, musty air, replaces with fresher, healthier air • Reduces harmful gases and pollutants Improving Arthritis Aging Youthfully™ • Quiet, safe, environmentally friendly with Aquatic Therapy Thursday, January 29, 6:30 p.m. • Maintenance-free—no filters or buckets Monday, January 26, 6:30 p.m. Lecture with Dr. Lorraine Parker. Dr. Learn how aquatic therapy can greatly Parker will discuss the latest nutrition • Uses less electricity than a 40-watt light bulb improve arthritic conditions in the information, lifestyle changes, anti-ag- body. Free informative lecture. ing nutrients, and anti-aging testing procedures that you can include in your Improve the air quality in your home, satisfaction guaranteed Advanced registration required for life right now so that you can re-youth these events as seated is limited. Call your body and brain no matter what (828) 210-0100. your age. Call for a FREE Humidex phone consultation

Earth Fare, 1856 Hendersonville Road Contact Janice Husk, (828) 210-0100 for more information 1-800-663-2721

Vol. 12, No. 5 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — January 2009 39