Br n N Prfrm nc

Pilobolus, the Award-Winning r  Modern Dance Company. PAGE 8 Br n N Ye r

Versatile String Trio Time for Three. PAGE 19

INSIDE Pack Square Conservancy in High Gear for 2011. PAGE 5 The Magnetic Theatre ALO Debuts Brundibár, presents When Jekyll the World-Renowned Met Hyde. PAGE 2 Children’s Opera. PAGE 20 RAPID RIVER ARTS stage preview

The Magnetic Theatre presents When Jekyll Met Hyde

John Crutchfield as Dr. Jekyll. Photo: Peter Brezny.

he Magnetic Theatre in The BY STEVEN SAMUELS Magnetic Field proudly presents the world premiere of When Jekyll Met Hyde, “a gleefully ridiculous “Says Bacchus to Venus,” music and take on the classic tale of passion,” lyrics by Steven Samuels, arrangement by Twritten and directed by Magnetic Theatre Brian Claflin and Steven Samuels, realiza- Artistic Director Steven Samuels. tion by Brian Claflin. Set design: Leslie Drawing on every written, dramatized, Klingner and Kevin Smith. Lighting design: and filmed version of the Robert Louis Ste- Ryan Madden. Costume design: Xanath venson classic imaginable, When Jekyll Met Espina. Sound design: Brian Claflin. Stage Hyde features an unusual feminist twist and manager: Katie Anne Towner. a surprise ending. To double the fun, and to honor the The Magnetic Field, a brand-new café-bar- split personality at the heart of the story, performance house, is located in the River Arts Fine Art The Magnetic Theatre is mounting two District’s Glen Rock Depot, at 372 Depot Street. High Quality different productions simultaneously, one set in the 1950s, the other in the Furnishings 1960s, with two different casts, in alter- IF Previews begin January 13. Pottery nating repertory: in the 1950s version, Performances Thursday- Mondy Carter, Tracey Johnston-Crum, YOU Saturday at 7:30 p.m., and John Crutchfield, Darren Marshall, and GO Friday-Saturday at 10 p.m. Alphie Hyorth; in the 1960s version, John Details and ticket sales Crutchfield, Kathryn Temple, Julian available at www.themagneticfield. Vorus, Steph Anie, and Petery Brezny. com. Reservations: (828) 668-2154.

Best Wishes for a Happy New Year from Rapid River Magazine 29 Biltmore Ave. Exclusive Parking in the Rear Located between Mast General Store and Doc Chey’s. (828) 281-4044 :: www.vandykejewelry.com

2 January 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 5

prints color RAPID RIVER ARTS stage preview The Hot Comedy “Boeing-Boeing” AT NORTH CAROLINA STAGE COMPANY

opular local actors Charlie Flynn- BY AMANDA LESLIE McIver and Scott Treadway team up again for the hilarious farce Boeing- Boeing, opening February 16 and running through March 13. Tickets Deliciously, deliriously Pare on sale now, and if the past is any indica- innocent. tion, this comedy will sell out quickly. Boeing-Boeing is a frothy 1960s farce thetic distance may be nearly as great.” about three airline stewardesses, two French The show opens February 16, but you bachelors, and a brand new Boeing jet. can catch Scott and Charlie in NC Stage’s (For)Play Series Sunday, January 23 at 2 p.m. at the Reuter Center on the campus of UNC-Asheville. They’ll be doing a cold reading of the script, and taking questions from the audience. The (For)Play Series is designed to give pa- trons a glimpse of how a play evolves from the first rehearsal to open- ing night. Boeing-Boe- ing was written by French playwright Marc Camoletti, and made its English- language debut in London’s West End in 1962, translated by Beverley Cross and Francis Evans. The play proved so popular it ran in London for seven years. It was also adapted into a 1965 Scott Treadway and Charlie Flynn-McIver star in the NC Stage production of Boeing-Boeing. film starring Tony Curtis, but contem- Bernard’s love life is a perfect balancing porary audiences will probably know it best act: when one of his stewardess girlfriends from a recent Broadway revival. touches down, the next one is already in the Of the revival, the New York Times air. What could possibly go wrong? wrote, “You see, the appeal of ‘Boeing Boe- Scott Treadway and Charlie Flynn-Mc- ing’ is the very opposite of what you might Iver star as the beleaguered bachelors, and expect. It’s not smutty at all. It’s deliciously, they’ll be joined by four actresses to be cast deliriously innocent. I haven’t felt so much this month. Beginning in 2004, with The like a child, while watching a sex comedy, Complete Works of William Shakespeare since I was, well, a very young child, taken (abridged), Scott and Charlie have starred in by his mother to the Billy Wilder movie some of NC Stage’s most popular produc- ‘Some Like It Hot.’” tions, including Stones In His Pockets, Moonlight and Magnolias, and True West. Now they’ve been recognized nation- ally, with a profile in American Theatre IF Boeing-Boeing runs Magazine. UNC-Asheville professor February 16 – March 13, YOU 2011. Wednesdays through Scott Walters writes about their unique GO Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., comic chemistry: “Like Bob Hope and Bing Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets Crosby, Charlie Flynn-McIver and Scott range from $16 - $28, with a Pay What Treadway have taken to the road together. You Can Night schedulued for Wednesday, And while the road between Flat Rock and February 16. Tickets are available at www. Asheville in North Carolina may not be as ncstage.org or phone (828) 239-0263. far-flung as the road to Morocco, the aes-

Vol. 14, No. 5 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — January 2011 3

prints color Discover the Best of Regional Craft RAPID RIVER ARTS stage preview S/He Loves Me, S/He Loves Me Not… ove is in the air…or not. It is some- BY KATHY MEYERS thing that moves us, which stirs us

Jewelry: Barbara Joiner Barbara Jewelry: and something we all yearn songwriter/musician friends if they had for; men and the desire to collaborate with dancers in women,L young and this project. And so… old, traditional and The event will begin upon entering non-traditional. the historic Masonic Temple building Allanstand Craft Shop In this upcoming at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, Febru- at the Folk Art Center production, dance and ary 14. Performances by Cilla Milepost 382 Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville, NC song merge in a visceral, Vee-Life Arts and Julie Gillum Open Daily 9am-6pm | 828-298-7928 intriguing journey through greet pre-show, decadent the best and worst of love. desserts tempt at intermis- Begun by the chance sion, and the incorpora- Guild Crafts match.com meeting of a chore- tion of art by Shelley 930 Tunnel Road/Hwy 70, Asheville, NC ographer and a songwriter, (Kathy Pereda will culminate. Open Mon.-Sat: 10am-6pm | 828-298-7903 Meyers and Tom Leiner) the natu- Within the 8 p.m. ral desire to find joy and comfort in show, diverse and the presence of another finds expres- talented musicians River sion in “S/He Loves Me…” Following Guerguerian, Kat Williams, several social gatherings with the collective Joe Ebel, Annie Lalley, Crystal Bray and network of talent, the two artists were Tom Leiner, along with dancers of Moving prompted to the obvious match of music Women, (Kathy Meyers, Jenni Cockrell, The Southern Highland Craft Guild is authorized to provide services on the Blue Ridge Parkway and dance and asked their professional Erin Braasch) and guests Kathleen Hahn, under the authority of a cooperative agreement with the National Park Service, Department of the Interior. Holly Mason, and Erik Moellering will create an atmosphere as comical, passionate and heart stirring as any relationship. The perfect evening to share with a Valentines’ date, friend, or… Tickets are available in advance and range from $10-20 per person and $15- $35 per couple depending on orchestra or balcony seating. For more information or tickets please contact (828) 215-2410, or [email protected]. Grounded in modern dance, Moving Women’s projects have aimed to explore the cathartic experience of movement and the inspiration offered by collaboration with other artists to create original works. Visit www.movingwomen.org for more information.

Moving Women is a project of Arts2People, a local non-profit, dedicated to promoting the arts as an integral part of our culture, www. arts2people.org.

IF S/He Loves Me… an exploration of the many YOU facets of romance and love, GO set to original music and dance. Monday, February 14 (Valentine’s Day). Performance begins at 8 p.m. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Asheville Masonic Temple Theatre, 80 Broadway, Downtown Asheville. $10-$20/ per person, or $15-$35/per couple. Contact Kathy Meyers, Kathy@arts2people. org, (828) 215-2410 for more information.

Image credits: Photos by Joe Karpen. Design by Jim Julien.

4 January 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 5

prints color RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE pack square park Pac Squ r C ncy  Hig Ge r r 2011

ith a bird’s eye view of Pack Square Park — well, not the W entire park, but some key features such as the beautiful new fountain in Pack Square near the historic Vance Monument — the Pack Square Conservancy staff keeps an eye on things. The Biltmore Building blocks the view of the rest of the park, so Pack Square Conser- vancy’s Executive Director, Gary V. Giniat will hike down regularly to check on the prog- ress of the long awaited visitor Conservancy leader, Gary V. Giniat, plans for 2011. center in Reuter Terrace near the corner of Market and Col- lege streets when construction begins this spring. “We are working diligently and strategically “Our role as a conservancy is to enhance with a plan to pay back the City. At the same and protect Pack Square Park through a time, we are building up our endowment in variety of means,” explained Giniat. “We have order to have future capital to invest in the park an obligation to our donors and the public to as necessary.” ensure the high maintenance and design stan- • Offer programs in the park that supplement dards are adhered to and to make sure the park existing events and festivals. It is a major goal is an active, useable space for everyone.” of the Conservancy to provide a rich variety One way to enhance the park and provide of multi-cultural programs that are free to the something the public has been clamoring for public. In order to accomplish this, the Con- at the same time is to build a 1,300 square foot servancy relies on corporate and individual visitor center off College Street between Market sponsorships to help defray costs. and Spruce Streets. Over half of the single story building will be devoted to public restrooms. The Conservancy’s small two person office The ground breaking is planned for spring 2011, at the west end of the park was a bevy of activity and the center should be open by mid-summer. last year. Of the 57 permits granted by the City Those who have joined Giniat for an of Asheville to people or organizations wanting insider’s walking tour of the park are buoyed to use Pack Square Park, a third were requested up from his enthusiastic tours of the by the Conservancy. Events it hosted ranging park. Now that the park is finished, from free concerts, live art performances, and compliments such as “Beautiful!” and storytelling to Tai Chi. To the Conservancy’s “Stunning!” abound. Long time resi- delight, more people attended every event it dents tell him the park is used more sponsored last year than they expected. than ever before and they like seeing The walls of Giniat’s office are covered the diverse mix of people of all ages with colorful bits of paper with potential ideas out in the park both day and night. scrawled neatly on them. Those notes are also Right now Giniat sees the how this upbeat Chicago transplant with a Conservancy’s role as three-fold: “we can do it” attitude keeps track of the many projects he’s working on. His successful Friends • Build a visitor’s center and public of Pack Square Park program, launched at the restrooms with a grant received from Labor Day Symphony concert, has brought in the Buncombe County Tourism donations from many new contributors, plus Development Authority (BCTDA), many faithful donors. earmarked exclusively for that pur- “The Conservancy isn’t going anywhere,” pose. Once completed, the visitor’s Giniat said. “We’re here for the long haul.” center will be staffed with volunteers from the Chamber of Commerce. • Continue fundraising to pay off the construction debt to the City. To join the Friends of Pack Square Park Despite some media reports, the program, make a donation, find out about working relationship between the sponsorship opportunities or for more Conservancy and the City of Ashe- information please contact Pack Square ville continues smoothly. Giniat says, Conservancy at (828) 252-2300 or check out Photo by Alan Hantz, courtesy of Pack Square Conservancy. their website www.packsquarepark.org.

Vol. 14, No. 5 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — January 2011 5

prints color 6 January 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 5

prints color RAPID RIVER ARTS we love this place The Asheville Living Treasures Committee announces that it is now accepting nominations for the spring 2011 Asheville Living Treasures Ceremony to be held in May. Letters are needed RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE by March 1, 2011. The mission of Asheville Living Treasures is to honor the elders of Ashe- Established in 1997 • Volume Fourteen, Number Five ville, and Buncombe County, who have devoted their lives to making our communities a better place to live. These elders will be publicly honored, and their achievements and stories recorded for future generations. Who is an Asheville Living Treasure? Our treasures represent our best values. They are fine JANUARY 2011 2 Stage Preview role models for all generations, providing inspiration with their good deeds and with their hope, www.rapidrivermagazine.com Magnetic Field – Jekyll & Hyde. . . . 2 heart and wisdom. We believe it is important to express gratitude to those who benefit our com- NC Stage – Boeing-Boeing ...... 3 munities and to bring their stories to the public’s attention. Publisher/Editor: Dennis Ray Playback Theatre – Life Stages. . . . . 9 Who is eligible? Any senior in Asheville and Buncombe County aged 70 Managing Editor: Beth Gossett Aquila – Six Characters...... 17 and above. Include in your Letter of Nomination: How has their service Marketing: Dennis Ray benefited the community and how have they inspired other people? Do Staff Photographer: Dennis Ray the treasures embody the qualities of kindness, courage, wisdom, grace, Performance authenticity, humor, respectfulness and generosity of spirit? Layout & Design: Simone Bouyer 4 Moving Women ...... 4 How to nominate a Living Treasure: Simply submit your letter of Book Editor: Cauley Bennett Diana Wortham – Pilobolus ...... 8 nomination by email to [email protected] or by mail Poetry Editor: Ted Olson Bravo – Time for Three ...... 19 to: Carol Kessler, Asheville Living Treasures, 152 Edwin Place, Asheville, Proofreader: Mary Wilson ALO – Brundibár ...... 20 NC 28801. For more information phone Carol Kessler at (828) 505-7259 Accounting: Sharon Cole or Marnie Walsh at (828) 298-2231. Distribution: Dennis Ray The Blue Ridge Rollergirls, Asheville’s skater owned and skater run nonprofit women’s flat 10 Columns track roller derby league, needs a dedicated training and meeting space in Asheville. The facility CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: James Cassara - Music ...... 10 should include a smooth, hard skating surface such as wood, concrete, sport court, or other simi- Peter Loewer - Thoreau’s Garden . 12 John Anderson, Judy Ausley, lar material, with an overall size of at least 120 feet x 80 feet, a minimum of 10,000 square feet. Judy Ausley - Southern Comfort. . 18 Heat and good ventilation are critical. We also need room outside the James Cassara, Katie Chen, Ted Olson - Poetry ...... 24 track for equipment and prep space. A space large enough to accom- Michael Cole, Maggie Cramer, Cauley Bennett - Books ...... 25-26 modate multiple teams and small event crowds is ideal. Amy Downs, John Ellis, We currently lose valuable training time while paying gas and rink Beth Gossett, Max Hammonds, MD, Bill Walz - Artful Living ...... 27 Max Hammonds, MD - Health . . 28 rental costs since we travel 60 miles round trip to Hendersonville Phil Hawkins, Nancy Hayes, three times a week to practice. We want to safely advance the Joseph Rathbone - Youth Culture 29 Jill Ingram, Mountaine Mort Jonas, skills of our skaters by doubling practice time. This will develop Phil Juliano, Kate Justus, Joe Zinich - Beer ...... 32 our league to compete in WFTDA rankings and regional/national Chip Kaufmann, Michelle Keenan, Michael Parker - Wine ...... 33 championships. 35 Amanda Leslie, Peter Loewer, Greg Vineyard - Fine Art ...... A training facility will allow us to host skating bootcamps, fund- Kathy Meyers, Pamela Miller, raisers, and other events that empower sustainable growth while Ted Olson, Michael Parker, building a strong foundation in sportswomanship, camaraderie, and 11 Music service to our local Asheville community. During our home bouts Tracie Pouliot, Joseph Rathbone, Crystal Buckner aka The Walkmen ...... 11 we attracted more than 2,000 rabid fans, with more than 3,000 fans Cussed ‘em Chop Her Dennis Ray, Steven Samuels, Sharon Van Etten ...... 16 at our final November bout! We are a part of the fastest growing sport in the nation! Erin Scholze, Greg Vineyard, Chamber Music ...... 22 For further information, please contact Crystal Buckner (Cussed ‘em Chop Her), chair of our Bill Walz, Robert Wiley, search committee. She can be reached by email at [email protected]. Visit the Blue Joe Zinich. 13 Noteworthy Ridge Rollergirls online at www.blueridgerollergirls.com. INFO Farmers Conference ...... 13 Rapid River Arts & Culture Magazine is a {Re}HAPPENING 2011 ...... 23 monthly publication. Address correspondence to Lego® Construction Contest. . . . . 29 [email protected] or write to: Rapid River Arts & Culture Magazine Advertise with Rapid River Magazine 85 N. Main St. 14 Movie Reviews Canton, NC 28716 (828) 646-0071 Phone: (828) 646-0071 Free web links • Free ad design • Easy monthly billing www.rapidrivermagazine.com 30 What to Do Guide™ All materials contained herein are owned and Best in Show by Phil Juliano . . . . . 31 copyrighted by Rapid River Arts & Culture Callie & Cats by Amy Downs . . . . 31 Magazine and the individual contributors unless Corgi Tales by Phil Hawkins . . . . 31 otherwise stated. Opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily correspond with the Dragin by Michael Cole ...... 31 opinions of Rapid River Arts & Culture Magazine or the advertisers found herein. Art News © Rapid River Arts & Culture Magazine, 34 January 2011 Vol. 14 No. 5 Holly Iglesias ...... 34 Martin DeWitt...... 34 36 Fine Art Marsha Balbier ...... 36 Laura Sims ...... 37 Anne Freels & Leslie Owens . . . . . 38 West African Art Exhibit...... 39 Cover background photo by Alan Hantz Revelations...... 39

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Vol. 14, No. 5 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — January 2011 7 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE performance World Renowned Pilobolus Opens Mainstage Dance Series

he Diana Wortham Theatre at BY JOHN ELLIS Pack Place presents the highly imaginative, award-winning modern dance company Pilo- Confer- bolus at 8 p.m. January 21-22, ence Prize, and T2011. Chosen as the opening perfor- a Primetime mances for this season’s Mainstage Emmy Award Dance Series, Pilobolus is a returning for outstand- favorite of Asheville audiences and is ing achievement highly acclaimed for its startling mix of in cultural program- humor and invention. ming. Most recently During its last appearance at the Pilobolus was honored with the Diana Wortham Theatre, Pilobolus 2010 Dance Magazine Award, given to sold out two performances. In its two artists who have made a lasting contri- evening shows for this season’s Main- bution to the field; Pilobolus is the first Photo: John Kane stage, the troupe will present a program collective troupe to be honored in this tailored for Asheville and the Diana award’s 54 year history. Wortham Theatre. The company has also been fea- Using everything from athletic tured, with great popularity, on broad- acrobatics to puppetry and shadow cast media: in 2004, CBS’s 60 Minutes; imagery, Pilobolus creates a metamor- in 2007, the live telecast of the 79th phosis on stage between physicality and Academy Awards; that same year, on illusion: “Bodies become imagery, and the Oprah Winfrey Show; twice in 2008 on the Late Show with Conan O’Brien; one image merges into another, organi- February 9 and 10, and lively Afro-Bra- cally, poetically, inexplicably,” says The and sixteen times in conjunction with football games on the NFL Network. zilian culture in music and dance with New York Times. And according to Viver Brasil April 5 and 6. Worth magazine: “Pilobolus combines In June 2000 Pilobolus received the the laws of physics with a daring artistic Samuel H. Scripps American Dance eye to create sensual, gravity-defying Festival Award for lifetime achievement choreography that has changed the in choreography. For more information please visit look of modern dance.” Pilobolus’ Asheville performances www.pilobolus.com Pre-show discussions at 7 p.m. in are made possible by Performance The Forum at Pack Place precede the Sponsors Nancy Houha & William Pilobolus performances in Asheville. Hilson, Bill & Jerry McAninch, Tom Pilobolus, part of Free for ticket holders, these discus- & Brooke Nelson, and the Art Fryar IF the Mainstage Dance sions add to attendees’ understanding Charitable Trust Fund; and by Main- YOU stage Dance Series Sponsors Tina & GO Series. Friday & Saturday, and enjoyment of the performance January 21 & 22, 2011 at by providing professional insight and John McGuire, Hedy Fischer & Randy Shull, Michael Witaszek, and BMW of 8 p.m. Diana Wortham background on the company, perform- Theatre at Pack Place. Tickets: Asheville; with additional support from ers, and danceworks. Regular $45; Seniors $43; Students Born in a 1971 Dartmouth Col- Media Sponsor WNC Magazine. $40. Student Rush day-of-the-show lege dance class, this outsider dance The Diana Wortham Theatre’s (with valid ID) $10. 2011 Mainstage Dance Series continues company quickly became renowned For more information or to purchase throughout the world for its imagina- with New York’s Doug Varone and Dancers, winner of 11 “Bessies” – New tickets call the Box Office at (828) 257- tive and athletic exploration of creative 4530, or visit www.dwtheatre.com. collaboration: a unique weight-sharing York Dance and Performance Awards, approach to partnering that gave the young company a non-traditional but powerful new set of skills with which to make dances. AERIAL SPACE WINTER STUDENT SHOWCASE The physical vocabularies of Pilo- bolus works are not drawn from tradi- erial Space is excited They offer a variety of tions of codified dance movement but to announce their classes for all ages and skill are invented, emerging from intense Winter Student levels. periods of improvisation and creative Showcase and One The Winter Student play. Now in its 40th year, Pilobolus Year Anniversary Showcase will be held from AParty on Saturday, January 1-5 p.m. and features tech- has evolved into a self-sufficient orga- nization, its members choreographing, 8, 2011. Come and see some niques that the students dancing, managing, and publicizing amazing aerial circus arts have learned in classes over their own programs. throughout the day and enjoy the an- the past year. Some of the students Pilobolus has received a number niversary celebration in the evening. performing are Craig Lewis, Waverly of prestigious honors, including the Aerial Space is a studio dedicated to Jones, 6 year old Eli on Silks and Sling, Berlin Critic’s Prize, the Brandeis the promotion and education of aerial Alex Berkow on Silks, Jessica Hill on Award, the New England Theatre movement and art — Trapeze, Lyra, Silks, Aerial Dance, and Aerial Yoga. ‘Aerial Space’ continued on page 9

8 January 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE performance

shows involve a huge variety of stories – ro- IF Asheville Playback Theatre Character Unlimited mantic, metaphysical, silly, political, embar- invites you to “Life Stages.” rassing, challenging, joyful – because all that YOU Friday, January 7 at 8 p.m.; AN IMPROVISATIONAL SURPRISE and much more is experienced in human GO Saturday, January 8, kids show life on planet Earth, and as long as it’s true, at 2 p.m.; Saturday, January 8 hen Asheville Playback Theatre we’re ready to honor it in an enactment. BY MOUNTAINE MORT JONAS at 8 p.m.; Sunday, January 9 at 2 p.m., was founded in 1995, I showed Check out our season schedule at www. all woman cast. Singer/storyteller Danny up at one of the first rehears- ashevilleplayback.org or contact Raphael Pe- Ellis opens both 8 p.m. shows. NC Stage, als. Acting out real-life stories pyramid. God. A guy with a wife and 2 kids, ter at (828) 779-3062 for more information. 15 Stage Lane. Adults $10/ Students $5. Visit sounded cool, and having just living in a suburban house with a 2-car ga- I hope to play a part in one of YOUR stories www.ashevilleplayback.org or phone (828) arrivedW in the area, I was looking for my cre- rage. A house, a little girl, a dog, a lobster on 779-3062 for more information. sometime this season. ative niche. Squeezing up the narrow steps Times Square, a paper cup full of pee, a dead of an old house on Grove Street, I emerged body, you name it… As an actor, I’d learned into a tiny room with a very low ceiling, and to be more spontaneous than I could ever about 8 other people. have imagined. And I grew to adore the local team of actors DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE and musicians at Pack Place in downtown Asheville who were also drawn to stretch Pilobolus like this in January public. So now 21 & 22 it’s 2011, and Asheville Play- back Theatre is celebrating its sweet 16 season.

Our next public John KanePhoto: shows are the annual play- Aquila Theatre back marathon February 4

weekend at NC Knott Phil Photo: Stage January 7-9, with four Aquila Theatre shows, includ- February 5 ing one for kids. And we’re Asheville Playback Theatre presents Life Stages January 7-9. thrilled to be Doug Varone scheduled “on and Dancers We ignored the space limitations as Broadway” at the Asheville Masonic Temple February 9 & 10 best we could, and warmed up with theatre for four Fridays in the spring. games. Then we were introduced to forms If you come to a show, you will not be of improvisation which are used in playback “volunteered” — it’s your choice to tell a theatre all over the world — various ways to story and see it enacted, or to relax and en- honor personal stories. It was very stimulat- joy the stories of others. Unlike most other ing, great fun, and I seemed to be a compe- improv theatre, the intention of playback is tent character actor — ideal for playing weird to honor (not make comedy out of) the ma- characters — so I started coming to regular terial we get from the audience. If you tell a practice sessions. But I was convinced I could funny story, that’s fine – we’ll all have fun never be effective playing a “normal” guy. with it. But often the stories people tell deal It was at least five years later, having with parts of life that aren’t so funny. played hundreds of roles in dozens of shows, It’s very powerful when an audience that I noticed a big change. After lots of prac- member trusts us with some icky moment Sweet Plantain tice, I could play anything! A bored business- from the past, to see what insights might be man. An inspired meditator on an Egyptian gained from having it performed. Our best String Quartet February 19

‘Aerial Space’ continued from page 8 IF Aerial Space, Saturday, Silks, Hali and Bryn on Sling, Rowan and January 8, 2011. Student Jessica on Sling, Jennifer Cribbs on Trapeze, YOU Showcases 1-5 p.m., Raffle 5 and Hazel on Silks. GO p.m., Anniversary Party 5-7 Cathie Ryan There will be a raffle including Pata- p.m. 46 New Leicester Hwy., February 25 gonia luggage, local gift cards and lots more Suite 103, in Asheville NC. LarryPhoto: Kossson beginning at 5 p.m., which also marks the Suggested donation is $5 - $10. Tickets beginning of the Anniversary Celebration available online and at the door the day of which will go until 7 p.m! Drinks and snacks the event. Phone (828) 333-4664, or visit will provided by local businesses. www.aerialspace.org for more details. www.dwtheatre.com

Vol. 14, No. 5 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — January 2011 9 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE spinning discs

I’ll kick off the New Year with a few releases that came my way in the waning days of 2010. Some of these even date back to mid-summer but I’m finally getting around CD Reviews to them. As always, anything worth reviewing in these pages – from two stars to five by James Cassara – is worth listening to. It’s also worth buying at one of our fine independent record stores. We are fortunate to have them and they deserve our support.

Ray Davies the harmony found within. It also works in a bit of kick left in Athens, and they’re still See My Friends the album’s favor that every vocal nuance, one of Georgia’s most famous exports. **** purposeful or not, is wisely left intact. Decca Records Individually all three singers are more Crowded House Tribute albums are than capable but when the voices blend often rather dubious together, as they best do on such effort- Intriguer undertakings but when less tunes as “Animal Tacks” and “River” Fantasy Records the subject of adoration is himself directly the confluence of sound is breathtaking. Given the buzz involved, the potential for disaster climbs At just over 40 minutes, Made the Harbor about and anticipation precipitously. As such See My Friends is has the vibrancy of a hundred year old field for 2008’s Time on a particularly strange creature; given the recording, an old sounding record with very Earth, Crowded House’s first album after universal respect deservedly afforded him, modern sensibilities. ***1/2 a decade-long hiatus, it seems a shame that Davies has no problem lining up an “A” list the follow up should somehow slip between of artists to duet with. R.E.M. the cracks. That they come from different genera- Despite the challenges of reuniting tions is both a testament to his influence Live from Austin, TX the band and dealing with the suicide of and the very thing that derails this well (DVD) Crowded House friend and drummer Paul intended but wildly inconsistent effort. New West Records Hester, front man Neil Finn seems focused Jackson Browne and Bruce Springsteen When R.E.M. took on doing what he is best at: concocting four- were no doubt eager to sing with their idol the stage last March for minute pop gems that insidiously worm their but both their performances lack any real their first ever appear- way into your brain and not let go. spark. Metallica lends a much needed jolt of ance at Austin City Nobody can write an irrepressible tune heavy metal mania (and let’s not forget The Limits, they were as far removed from the quite like Finn. His tunes are a near perfect Kinks are generally considered to have in- band that once helped move post punk blend of hum along and thinking man’s vented that sound) on “You Really Got Me,” towards alternative rock as one can imagine. music. Intriguer may be a bit subdued, while newcomers Spoon weave a bit of astral Long gone was drummer Bill Berry, whose which is not the band’s forte – Finn isn’t consciousness into “See My Friends.” steady thump steadied the band’s fluid trying for a radio hit because no such animal Black Francis’ take on “This Is Where rhythm, and with him went the commercial still exists – but the swaying pulsation of I Belong” adds little to the version he re- fortitude they had once enjoyed. They were “Saturday Sun” or the guitar driven furnace corded 16 years ago but his heart is certainly now simply another very good group, cer- of “Inside Out” would have fit nicely be- in the right place. As is that of everyone tainly one with a history worth preserving, tween the earlier tunes. involved, but the entire record comes across but only one among many. Finn, along with original bassist Nick as too polite, as if the old timers are just glad Aided by drummer Bill Rieflin and Seymour and new members Mark Hart to be there and the new ones are terrified long time touring mate Scott McCaughey and Matt Sherrod, is content to play to his of screwing things up. As a result See My on guitar and keyboards, Live from Austin strengths as a song crafter, adding up to a Friends is pleasant, heartfelt, but timid in a seems a calculated attempt on the part of the record that doesn’t demand your attention way that few Kinks songs ever were. **1/2 band to reassert themselves as a force to still as much as earn it. be reckoned with, even as they enter into What Intriguer lacks in panache it more Mountain Man their fourth decade together. than compensates for in sturdiness, reward- Made the Harbor Relying most heavily on songs from ing each additional listen with its subtle their at the time upcoming release Accelerate pleasures and obscure charms. As such it Partisan Records (after all every band must tour to promote is the ideal complement for its predecessor Few of the bands the new album), Michael Stipe and com- and yet another addendum to the band’s I caught at Moog Fest pany do manage to toss in a few surprises. storied legacy. **** were as unknown to Reaching back as far back as 1984 for “South me as Mountain Man, Central Rain”, Live in Austin is a pretty good Robyn and fewer still left me with such a strong summation of where R.E.M. sees themselves Hitchcock and impression as a band worth watching. The and where they might just go. three women, Molly Erin Sarle, Alexandra Solid renditions of “Losing My Reli- the Venus Three Sauser-Monnig, and Amelia Randall, who gion” and the elegiac “Fall on Me” might Propellor Time make up the band capably craft a sound not not have the multilayered textural nuance If at first listen unlike a rural version of The Roches. that made them famous, but Stipe, Peter Propellor Time Their on-stage interplay and vocal ar- Buck, and Mike Mills still know how to doesn’t sound much different than the rangements were nothing short of stunning, give the people what they want. In this case many albums Robyn Hitchcock has made and while the studio versions of the songs it’s more than 90 minutes of what might since he disbanded The Soft Boys and ven- (which I heard only after seeing them on just be the highest profile audition since tured solo, it’s only because the consistency stage) come a bit short of capturing that the Beatles took over the rooftop of Abbey of his career has been nothing less than magic, they are plenty strong enough to Road Studios. remarkable, both in sheer number and qual- stand on their own. When Stipe invites a pair of barely teen ity. But while some of his records (I Often Recorded in a turn of the 20th century boys onstage, one of the boys can barely Dream of Trains) have been immediately ice cream parlor, Made the Harbor has a say, “You’re awesome.” And indeed, be it an recognized as masterworks, others (Eye) wonderfully rustic feel, an intentionally exercise in nostalgia or a portent of things have more or less crept into that category. ascetic pulse mirroring that of nature and to come, Live In Austin proves there is still ‘CD’s’ continued on next page

10 January 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE what’s happening

‘CD’s’ continued from page 10 BY JAMES CASSARA Propellor Time would seem to belong The Path of The Walkmen to that later category. It initially sounds much like the records that came immedi- ising a decade ago from the ashes by-song cover of Harry ately before but repeated listens reveal its of Jonathan Fire*Eater and the Nilsson’s Pussy Cats. depths. The songwriting is stronger, its Recoys, two respected but virtu- As tribute albums go themes more intriguing, and the playing ally unknown bands, the path of it received a remarkable even better than usual. the Walkmen has been a lesson amount of airplay, helping Begun in 2006 but for various reasons inR perseverance and good fortune with a to bring Nilsson’s music not completed until this year, it finds Hitch- large dose of natural talent tossed in. back into the limelight. A cock in fine form, backed by his frequent Consisting of Walter Martin (vocals, year later they returned partners the Venus Three. That band, es- organ, etc.), Paul Maroon (guitars), Matt to the same Oxford, sentially three-fifths of the current R.E.M. Barrick (drums) Hamilton Leithauser Mississippi, studio in touring unit, play with a level of precise (vocals) and Peter Bauer (bass), the which they recorded Bows intuition and poise that only comes from members grew up together in the + Arrows for 2008’s You countless life shows and the willingness to Washington, D.C., area. Having played & Me. Throughout it all allow the songs to dictate their own course. in many of the same bands since the the band’s membership There isn’t a tremendous amount of fifth grade, they’ve forged a bond both has remained stable – a flash to be found here, but that allows the by relation (Martin and Leithauser are rarity in itself – while they beauty of Hitchcock’s melodies to shine. cousins) and a mutual love of sound. have steadily toured and The buoyancy of “Luckiness” is typical of The band is touring in support of small Brooklyn label Startime International, increased their visibility. the album, as RH and the boys playfully the newly released Lisbon (Fat Possum followed by a vinyl-only release to be Along with opening band, The romp through the song with a performance Records), which is already garnering made available at concerts. In 2002, they Lower Dens, they’ll be presenting so subtle it is hard to believe it was re- them the best reviews of their career. made their proper full-length debut with material from their recently released corded live. Making a conscious attempt to evolve Everyone Who Pretended to Like Me Is album Lisbon, while no doubt covering Former Smiths guitarist Johnny Marr away from the raw, fiery garage sounds Gone. It was soon a favorite among indie all aspects of their career. So far it’s been adds some quietly frenetic playing to “Ordi- of their previous records, they have crowds, propelling the band into their first a pretty smooth ride and, given the band’s nary Millionaire” while longtime pals Nick begun incorporating piano into the new tour outside the states. chemistry and musical chops, there is Lowe and John Paul Jones also add a bit of material, giving them a more expansive After signing to Warner Brothers every reason to think the Walkmen will sizzle and pop. For Hitchcock’s part the lyr- palette to match the increasingly complex they recorded Bows + Arrows which was be gifting us for years to come. ics are typically mysterious and droll, filled arrangements. Influenced by such diverse released in 2004. They were among the with his trademark bizarre imagery, and the bands as The Pogues, Joy Division, New first bands to fully understand the potential ten songs all flow marvelously from one to Order, and The Smiths, the new record of song placement into the small screen, The Walkmen with the the other. bears more than a slight resemblance to marketing a number of their songs to IF Lower Dens at The Grey Hitchcock rarely makes weak albums 1970s new wave. television and even appearing in a cameo YOU Eagle on Friday, January 14 but it is just as uncommon when all the The band’s history is as interesting on the Fox TV series The O.C. The band GO at 9pm. Tickets are $13 in elements come together to make a great as their records. They released a self- returned to the studio in 2005, quickly advance / $15 day of show one. Propellor Time is one such instance, titled, four-song EP in 1999 through the recording A Hundred Miles Off and a song- with standing room only. another jewel in the musical crown worn by one of this generation’s most endearing and vital musicians. **** featuring future Yes keyboardist Rick Wake- equally satisfying those of us who have long dence typically reserved for jazz veterans. man and vocalist Sandy Denny, are the been around for the ride. Few compila- That confidence is best exemplified by Strawbs Live at most essential. tions can make that claim, which is reason the album’s opener, an original composition the BBC Having worked the underground folk enough to celebrate this release. **** inspired by the poetry of William Blake in Volumes 1 & 2: clubs of the 1960s, the band became an in- which Spalding’s discreet vocals whisper credibly tight unit, foretelling a time when, their way to your heart. Backed only by bass In Session Esperanza for them, progressive rock and folk would Spalding and an unobtrusive string section her ap- UME Import briefly become virtually indistinguishable proach is tantalizing and mesmeric. Music from one another. Chamber “Winter Sun” is a bit more poppy but For a time the Disc two, which chronicles the later Music Society no less successful. Her melodic delivery Strawbs were the tipping point where Brit- sessions wherein founder Dave Cousins Telarc Jazz – bordering on scat – is buoyed by twin ish folk moved towards a more wide ranging becomes the band’s focal point, may lack By the time piano and bass, a heady melding of jazz to approach, melding together long-standing the wild “anything goes” of the first disc she picked up the rhythm and blues. Even when she ventures traditions with late 1960’s experimentation. but it is no less a pleasure. Two versions of bass at age ten, into less familiar terrain, such as the Brazil- Formed in 1964 as (of all things) a Brit- “The Hangman and the Papist” are remark- Esperanza Spalding was already being hailed ian tinged “Apple Blossom” she never loses ish bluegrass band, the Strawbs eventually able in their differences, while “The Winter as a prodigy. Her self-titled 2008 debut command of her marvelous voice. moved to rock, glam, and progressive rock. and the Summer” is as shimmering now as spent an astonishing 70 weeks on Bill- Other highlights included an inventive It was this phase that came to mark their it was 40 years past. As of last year the band board’s contemporary jazz chart and earned cover of Ned Washington’s archetypal “Wild legacy, and while they never achieved the was still going strong, with a line up that her the new artist of the year recognition. Is the Wind” (with a gorgeous cello solo) and fame of such prime contemporaries as The has remained remarkably stable over time. Spalding is the sort of talent who, while not the keyboard driven “What a Friend.” Moody Blues or King Crimson it is pretty And while there are nearly as many Strawbs easily categorized, is more than deserving of As good as her debut was, Chamber safe to say they greatly influenced the direc- compilations as main albums, Live at the the praise heaped upon her. Music Society is a far more stylish effort, tion those bands and many others took. BBC is no less welcome. For her second effort she’s assembled more musically diverse and soulful. It’s a These recently unearthed and cleaned As a long time fan I was amazed to an intriguing collection of tunes, surrounded huge step forward for an artist who hardly up tracks, culled largely from their peak discover these tracks still existed, much less herself with ace players (anchored by pianist needed one, pointing towards a future that creative period of 1969-1973, charts their in good enough condition to be released. Leonardo Genovese and percussionist Quin- is as warm and affirming as the summer rise to success while presenting a fascinating They make an excellent “jumping on” point tino Cinalli) and shown the type of confi- days it so perfectly evinces. **** look at a band in flux. The earliest sessions, for those not familiar with the music while

Vol. 14, No. 5 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — January 2011 11 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE thoreau’s garden The Ox-Tongue Cactuses

ever having been licked by an ox’s tongue, I can’t be sure that BY PETER LOEWER this particular group of plants is properly named, but if ox tongues slowly spiral, eventually be- look at all like I imagine them coming rosettes. Leaves truly Nto be, most of the plants in this group of resemble animal tongues, in- cactuses are right on. And when dealing cluding the raised specks or with these succulents, all except one of the tubercles that often cover the common names in current descriptive use surface, much like ranks of revolves around the tongue and include taste buds. Some twenty spe- cow-tongue cactus, lawyer’s-tongue (most cies and some cultivars are apt in the 21st century), mother-in-law’s available from nurseries and tongue, and strangely, Dutch-wings. would make a fine theme for The genus is Gasteria and is named a collection of truly unusual for the Latin gaster, or belly, referring to plants. the swollen base of the floral tube. Flowers Gasterias are also look like little tubes with flared edges, often excellent plants for people blooming on very tall stems. on the go, since the thick There are some fifty species of these leaves point to their ability plants, all from South Africa. They are to survive up to a month closely related to aloes but are easily recog- (sometimes more) with- nized because of the flower form — and re- out water. However, for member, the gasterias are not really cactuses healthy growth, they should but actually members of the lily family. be watered well during the The long, fleshy, but very tough leaves summer months then kept usually grow in ranks of two, but a few almost waterless during the dormant period that occurs during the winter months. Illustration by Peter Loewer Try to keep tempera- tures above 50°F. Also, protect plants from really strong sunlight because too much Gasterias are excellent solar stimulation causes the leaves to turn brown and lose much of their character plants for people on — so partial shade is best. A good soil mix the go – they can survive is one-quarter each of potting soil, compos- for up to a month ted manure, peat moss, and sand. Fertilize plants at least once during the spring, sum- without water. mer, and fall. A number of the gasterias are lumped pink, under an inch long and bloom on under the name Gasteria maculata, where long stems up to three feet high. maculata means spotted. The leaves on For indoor gardeners with limited these plants can grow to a length of eight space, look for Gasteria nigricans marmo- inches and about an inch wide, attractively rata ‘Varietgata’. A charming plant with speckled with raised off-white oval spots short fat leaves — less than an inch long in an abstract pattern. Tubular flowers are — all growing like little bow ties, each marked with dark brown and ivory stripes. Or how about Gasteria ‘Silver Stripes’, a slightly larger hybrid that bears leaves that are pebbled in green stripes on a gray-green background. Propagaton is by offsets. If these pieces have few or no roots, they should be al- lowed to dry before being potted.

Peter Loewer, shown here, examining the blossoms of early-blooming Lenten roses, is a well- known writer and botanical artist who has written and illustrated more than twenty-five books on natural history over the past thirty years.

12 January 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE noteworthy Farmers Conference to Help Growers Thrive in 2011 and Beyond hat does 2011 hold for agritourism, business and marketing BY MAGGIE CRAMER farmers? The nation’s planning, beginning and advanced chefs, in a poll by the Quickbooks for farms, and much more. National Restaurant As- ASAP invites experienced and About Appalachian Sustainable sociation, cited locally beginning farmers, those seriously Agriculture Project (ASAP) Wsourced meats, seafood, and produce interested in farming, food buyers, and ASAP’s mission is to help local as the number one restaurant trend high school FFA students to attend the farms thrive, link farmers to markets for next year. day of networking and training. Po- and supporters, and build healthy The USDA’s 2007 Census of tential buyers of locally grown goods communities through connections to Agriculture showed that direct market are also invited to attend or to network local food. opportunities for farmers — sales to during lunch at no charge. Over the last decade, ASAP has restaurants and consumers — are in- spearheaded a Local creasing. And, in our area, Appalachian Food Campaign Sustainable Agriculture Project (ASAP) to support people estimates that more than $30 million of throughout the local food was sold in 2010, a number Southern Ap- that’s up three-fold from years past and palachian region is expected to continue to rise. in making those Over 120 Channels To ensure farmers have the connections. 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Price includes a light breakfast, local ASAP also clearly identifies and FREE Installation with DVR - Up to 6 Rooms! agricultural experts from around the lunch, and resource notebook. Schol- defines “local” through their Appala- Lowest Price Nationwide! region convene at MOFF to share con- arships for FFA students and those chian Grown™ certification program, FREE HD DVR Upgrade! ($6/mo DVR service fee applies) cepts and knowledge during a variety with financial need are available. organizes the Asheville City Market, No Equipment to Buy! of workshops. They leave with the For more information or to reg- and coordinates the Mountain Tailgate business and marketing tools needed to ister, visit www.asapconnections.org/ Market Association. CALL NOW! 1-866-506-6195 make a lasting impact on the landscape MOFF2011.html or call (828) 236- MB33.5 of the Southern Appalachians. 1282. The conference has often sold Digital Home Advantage plan requires 24-month agreement and credit qualification. If service is terminated before the end of agreement, a cancellation fee of $17.50/month remaining applies. This year’s workshop topics out, so attendees should register early. To learn more about ASAP’s work, visit Programming credits apply during the first 12 months. $10/mo HD add-on fee waived for life of current www.asapconnections.org, or call (828) account; requires Agreement, AutoPay with Paperless Billing. HBO/Showtime offer requires AutoPay include structuring labor on the farm, MOFF is made possible with support with Paperless Billing; credits apply during the first 3 months ($72 value); customer must downgrade or 236-1282. Search their online Local Food then-current price applies. Requires continuous enrollment in AutoPay and Paperless Billing. Free managing a CSA, selling to local res- from Greenlife Grocery, Carolina Standard Professional Installation only. Monthly fees may apply based on type and number of Guide at buyappalachian.org. receivers. All prices, packages and programming subject to change without notice. Local channels taurants, farmers market regulations, Farm Credit, and other funders. may not be available in all areas. Additional restrictions may apply. First-time DISH Network customers only. Offer ends 9/28/10. HBO® and related channels and service marks are the property of Home Box Office, Inc. SHOWTIME and related marks are registered trademarks of Showtime Networks Inc., a CBS Company. Lucid Food With Louisa Shafia former editor for NPR’s food politics into daily life in ways This cook- Fresh Air, Louisa Shafia stud- that are convenient, affordable, and book celebrates ied at the Natural Gourmet delicious? the pleasures Institute in New York City Lucid Food offers more than of savoring and cooked at vegan, raw, and eighty-five healthy, eco-oriented reci- home-prepared Anatural food restaurants in San Fran- pes based on conscientious yet practi- meals that cisco and New York. cal environmental ideals. A sustainable are healthful, Her book, Lucid Food: Cooking chef and caterer, Shafia demystifies honest, pure, for an Eco-Conscious Life, is dedi- contemporary food issues for the additive-free, and transparently cated to seasonal, simple foods and has home cook and presents simple, sea- made, from the source to the table. been featured in Saveur, The Wash- sonal dishes that follow nature’s cycles, About the Author ington Post, Sustainable Table and such as Baby Artichokes with Fresh Louisa Shafia is the founder of more. Come join us for a look at the Chervil, Apricot Shortcake with Lav- Lucid Food, an eco-friendly fine cater- book and a sample of the food! ender Whipped Cream, and Roasted ing company based in New York City. Green Your Cuisine with Tomato and Goat Cheese Soup. Earth-Friendly Food Choices Shafia’s empowering advice in- IF YOU GO: Louisa Shafia, author of cludes how to source animal products With organic and seasonal cook- Lucid Food, reading and booksigning, ethically and responsibly, support local ing principles becoming ingrained in January 15 at 3 p.m. Malaprop’s food growers, and reduce one’s carbon today’s kitchens, and new buzzwords Bookstore/Café, 55 Haywood Street, footprint through urban gardening, including locavore and CSA steadily downtown Asheville. Call (828) 254- preserving, composting, and more. gaining traction, how do we integrate 6734, or visit www.malaprops.com.

Vol. 14, No. 5 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — January 2011 13 Reel Take Reviewers: ∑∑∑∑∑ - Fantastic CHIP KAUFMANN is a film historian who ∑∑∑∑ - Pretty darn good also shares his love of classical music as a program ∑∑∑ - Has some good points host on WCQS- ∑∑ - The previews lied FM radio. ∑ - Only if you must MICHELLE KEENAN is M- Forget entirely a long time student For the latest REVIEWS, THEATER INFO of film, a and MOVIE SHOW TIMES, visit believer in Illustration of Michelle www.rapidrivermagazine.com the magic of & Chip by Brent Brown. movies and a fundraiser for BRENT BROWN is a graphic Questions/Comments? public radio. designer and illustrator. You can email Chip or Michelle at View more of his work at [email protected] www.brentbrown.com.

127 Hours ∑∑∑∑1/2 his experience with his camera/video camera the content to be deeply disturbing and number of very important Top 10 lists and, Short Take: The true story of Aron add an uncanny honesty, reconciliation and unpleasant, so much so that I would hesitate while there’s no question that it deserves Ralston, the hiker who was pinned by vulnerability to his experience. Few of us to watch it again. to be there, the hard R rating and art house a boulder and forced to amputate his have ever known the kind of despair we see If you’re expecting this movie to be booking will keep a number of people from own arm in order to survive. when he videotapes a final goodbye to his something on the order of The Red Shoes seeing it. That ultimately won’t matter as parents, but including or The Turning Point, then be warned in it only cost $17 million to make (cheap by REEL TAKE: I’ll ad- that definitely fortifies advance that it definitely is not. If you’re today’s standards) and it made half that back mit straight up that you for what’s next. looking for a movie that will keep you or over one weekend in only 90 theaters. I knew 127 Hours Yes, Aron Ralston your child from ever wanting to study bal- In the end what Aronofsky achieved on would critically be employed skills of let then Black Swan won’t disappoint or the film’s small budget is the most remark- a good movie, but survival that would surprise you. Think of The Red Shoes as if able thing about Black Swan. If only more wasn’t sure how challenge even the metal had been directed by Roman Polanski with filmmakers and performers would attempt palatable it would of Bear Grylls (TV’s most of that director’s Repulsion and its to work under these conditions and the stu- be otherwise. Early Man vs Wild), but how Catherine Deneuve performance thrown in dios were willing to release such films then reports from test he survived isn’t the for good measure. we would have a very different moviegoing audiences claimed point of the movie, Director Darren Aronofsky (Requiem landscape. However Hollywood beckons that people all but James Franco delivers and Oscar worthy it’s that life is worth for a Dream) has taken the basic premise and Aronofsky’s next film is a sequel to ran from the theatre performance in 127 Hours. living … well that and, of The Red Shoes and added post-mod- Wolverine. Will he become the next Chris- because of some always leave a note. 127 ern psychological angst and graphic sex topher Nolan (Memento to Inception) or of the content. (I believe most readers will Hours is beautifully filmed, well acted, and to complement numerous shots of how the next Bill Condon (Gods and Monsters know that 127 Hours is the story of Aron thoughtfully executed. No doubt, James punishing ballet can be on the human body. to The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn)? Ralston, the young mountain climber who Franco will be nominated for the award, After awhile the line from a Neil Innes Only time will tell. had to amputate his own arm, after being and it would be a well deserved win. Many song “I’ve suffered for my music and now pinned by a boulder in order to survive.) Rated R for strong sexual content, disturbing vio- people will not see this film because of what it’s your turn” kept popping into my head. lent images, language, and drug use. I am happy to report that not only did no Ralston’s character is forced to do. (This Here Aronofsky’s purpose is not to make REVIEW BY CHIP KAUFMANN one flee from the theatre, but that there is ironic given the amount of blood, gore an uplifting portrait of the struggles of an was no cause for flight either. This is due to and death in one hour of primetime TV, let aspiring ballerina but to show the down- ∑∑∑∑ the handling of the story by writer-director alone mainstream cinema). If you are even side of those aspirations when obsession The Fighter Danny Boyle. remotely interested in this story, see this and madness take over. Very operatic, very Short Take: The true story of boxer Boyle films, which span from film. You may cringe a bit, but the rewards tragic, and for me, very trying. Micky Ward who usurped the limelight Trainspotting and 28 Days Later, to Slum- are worth it. It was nice to see 70s star Barbara from his has-been half brother and dog Millionaire always possess a level of Hershey back up on the screen again as fellow boxer Dicky Ecklund. humanity and heart which transcend some Rated R for language and some disturbing violent content/bloody images. Portman’s over the top ballerina mother REEL TAKE: After years in the works, awfully brutal situations. 127 Hours is no and Winona REVIEW BY MICHELLE KEENAN Mark Wahlberg was finally able to get the different. It struck me that actor James Ryder makes biopic about boxer, “Irish” Micky Ward Franco, who portrays Ralston, and Boyle ∑∑∑∑ the most of her The Fighter. More specifically it’s about took an interesting journey together on Black Swan small part as the period in Ward’s boxing career when he this film. 127 Hours isn’t just an adrenaline Short Take: Deeply the company’s got out from under the shadow of his half rush and a story of survival, it’s a travail of disturbing tale of a former prima brother and fellow boxer Dicky ‘The Pride reflection and awareness. As Ralston ebbs ballerina’s descent into ballerina whom of Lowell’ Ecklund and the strong arm of and flows through a gamut of emotions madness features an age has caught his mother, in order to pursue a profes- and endures physical and environmental Oscar worthy performance up with. Mila sional boxing career. Armed with David O. from Natalie Portman. challenges, we are drawn in and the result is Kunis finally Russell (Three Kings and I Heart Hucka- quite mesmerizing. REEL TAKE: Black Swan is gets to prove bees) at the helm and a top notch cast, it Sequences of memories, hallucinations a prime example of the type that she is more seems it was a worth the wait, as the film and delusion creatively familiarize the viewer of film that provides a real Natalie Portman as the ballerina slipping than a voice on is being met with a lot of good buzz going into madness in Black Swan. with Aron’s life before that fateful day as well dilemma for me as a movie Family Guy into award season. as the trauma his body is now experiencing. critic. On one hand the film is an artistic with a dynamic portrayal of Portman’s Mark Wahlberg stars as Micky. Chris- The latter is done in a trippy way, so much triumph with remarkable camerawork, understudy and direct opposite. The film tian Bale stars as Micky’s older brother so that I think I was more spooked by certain first class editing, a well modified use of features great performances from all the Dicky, a now a washed up has-been and images of Scooby Doo than the events which Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake score, and an principal actresses but not enough to over- crack head to boot. He is a rather manic must occur to free him from certain death. Oscar deserving performance from Nata- come the film’s unsavory nature. personality with no shortage of ego. His Further sequences of Ralston documenting lie Portman. On the other hand, I found Black Swan has already made it onto a ‘Movies’ continued on page 15

14 January 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE film reviews

‘Movies’ continued from page 14 The King’s Speech ∑∑∑∑1/2 (including a couple of startling hand held with a woman who is too well dressed for Short Take: The true story of how King shots), invisible editing, and a very effective words and Johnny Depp as a rather mild as George VI overcame a speech defect use of Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony and milk toast (not-so-Jack Sparrow) fellow, and with the aid of a dedicated therapist Emperor Concerto and you have a movie the whole notion is ludicrous. I don’t get it. (contains dynamic performances from that will suck you in, keep you involved, Perhaps we’ve all become so attuned Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush). and let you go only when it’s over, at which to seeing Depp channeling his inner Keith point you’ll be very sad that it is. Although Richards that folks don’t know what to REEL TAKE: That rather dry summary not a film for everyone, The King’s Speech make of him playing someone slightly more up above doesn’t begin to tell how engag- pays huge dividends for those willing to subdued. Maybe people just can’t connect ing, moving, and ultimately exciting this enter its world. to Jolie’s affluent, aloof, perfectly mannered movie really is. Of course you need to be Rated R for occasional harsh language. and calculated character. She is dressed attuned to the Masterpiece Theatre mindset even more exquisitely than Hepburn was REVIEW BY CHIP KAUFMANN to begin with. Fans of action-adventure or by Givenchy; this level of sublime couture today’s typical rom-coms won’t feel that is also something most people can’t relate Mark Wahlberg and Christian Bale give way and it’s their loss. to, but for me, it was part of the allure. Or knockout performances as Micky Ward and Quick history lesson. In 1936 King Dicky Ecklund in The Fighter. maybe, director Florian Henckel von Don- Edward VIII of England, on the throne nersmarck (The Lives of Others) just gives claim to fame was that he once dropped for less than a year, abdicated in favor it too European a flair for most Americans. Sugar Ray Leonard in the ring (but it’s actu- of his younger brother Albert so that he I don’t particularly care what it was that ally more likely that Leonard just tripped). could marry an American divorcee, Wallis didn’t work for critics — for my money Now he trains Micky and their mother, Warfield Simpson. Albert had a debilitating the script is fun, the stars and the scenery Alice (Melissa Leo), manages Micky. While stammer. With the aid of an unorthodox couldn’t be more beautiful and best of all, Australian speech therapist, he was able Alice maintains that she loves all nine of Johnny Depp, Angelina Jolie, and Venice... the punch line got me! her children equally, the sun rises and sets to overcome it, become King George VI does it get any more beautiful than this? The Tourist is not a great movie, but it on Dicky (and she just hasn’t quite come to (father of Queen Elizabeth) and lead his is good and it’s an awfully fun way to while grips with the truth about Dick). country through World War II. ∑∑∑ away a couple of hours. It works particu- Anyone who has ever had a fear of The Tourist After meeting a fiery woman named Short Take: A mysterious woman on a larly well for people who enjoy old-school Charlene (Amy Adams), Micky begins to public speaking for whatever reason knows Hollywood, and who miss the likes of Cary what it’s train, a man of mistaken identity and separate himself from the influence and Venice as a backdrop – can this movie Grant and Jimmy Stewart. control of his drug addled brother and his like to have to stand in really be as bad as they say? Rated PG-13 for violence and brief strong brash, chain-smoking mother without sever- language. ing family ties. front of a REEL TAKE: The Tourist received a 20% REVIEW BY MICHELLE KEENAN The Fighter is a solid movie, and while it crowd and fresh rating on the old Tomato Meter at is very good, it somehow never quite reaches talk to peo- Rotten Tomatoes – that’s pretty greatness. This is too bad because its actors ple. Imagine darned rotten. Anyone out there The Voyage certainly do; the strength of the film lies the terror who occasionally peruses Reel of the Dawn squarely with the merits of its actors. Wahl- of having Takes knows that my co-re- Treader Colin Firth as the vocally to speak to viewer and I are not afraid to ∑∑∑ berg, Bale, Adams and Leo all turn in note- challenged King George worthy (perhaps award worthy) performances. an entire differ with other critics, but it is VI in the remarkable The country at a rare that both of us would be at Short Take: What was most interesting to me was King's Speech. The third the caliber of performances from both Bale time of crisis odds with 80% of the reviewers when you can barely get through an entire out there. However, in this case installment of and Wahlberg and yet their distinctly dif- The Chronicles sentence and you’re the King of England. we couldn’t disagree more with ferent acting styles. Bale, clearly a method of Narnia, Colin Firth gives a magnificent portrayal actor, IS Dicky Ecklund. His performance, the all out critical assault on An- which is taken of the troubled monarch. We feel his terror, gelina Jolie and Johnny Depp. In Lucy (Georgie Henley) and Aslan while repulsive, is utterly amazing. Wahl- (voiced by Liam Neeson) see into the from the best berg on the other hand is soft spoken and cringe at his embarrassment, and see the in- my humble opinion, The Tour- future in Voyage of the Dawn Treader. book in the seems much more laid back in his perfor- ner strength that the real King George must ist is a rather delightful throw series, is not mance. Perhaps it is the difference in their have had. It is his ability to present all these back to another time — the kind of film that as good as the first but is better than methods that helps depict the contrast sides of the King that makes his performance Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant would have the second. between brothers so effectively. Melissa Leo so compelling. He is matched every step of made or Jimmy Stewart and Grace Kelly. the way by Geoffrey Rush whose dedicated I’m not likening The Tourist to REEL TAKE: C. S. Lewis’ The Chronicles is staggeringly spot-on as Alice. It’s as if she’s of Narnia was probably my favorite book not even acting, and yet you couldn’t find but unconventional therapist gets the future Hitchcock films; I’m not, and it’s not. But King to come out of his shell after years of it is a luxurious escape of a movie, the kind series in the latter years of high school and someone less like Alice Ward than Leo. the early years of college. I preferred it The film, shot on location in Massachu- being ridiculed and browbeaten. that went out of vogue more than 40 years In addition to these two fine perfor- ago (and apparently won’t come back into over The Lord of the Rings as it was much setts, is nothing if not authentic. From the less ponderous and much of the imagery neighborhood to the ring, it’s the real deal. mances, we get to see Helena Bonham fashion any time soon). Johnny Depp is Carter give up her recent eccentric portray- Frank Tupelo, a math teacher from Wis- it contained resonated more deeply than The boxing sequences are not for the faint Tolkien did. Although I was aware of the of heart (I may have actually cringed more als and return to her roots in period drama consin and the would-be tourist in Venice. as the future Queen Mum, fiercely sup- Angelina Jolie is Elise Clifton-Ward, a stu- overt Christian symbolism, it didn’t keep watching The Fighter than I did watching me from enjoying it as a work of fantasy. 127 Hours). Ladies – pick this one for date portive of her husband, yet still retaining pefyingly stunning and mysterious woman a royal air. The film also features excellent who deliberately crosses his path. What That very Christian symbolism is prob- night and you’ll score some points … and ably what kept it from being attempted in maybe you can get them to take you to The character turns from Derek Jacobi, Timo- ensues, of course, is mistaken identity, thy Spall, Guy Pearce, Michael Gambon, romance and intrigue. celluloid form, although the BBC once did King’s Speech or Black Swan the next time. an adaptation which left out my two favorite (See reviews on this page and page 14.) and Claire Bloom still going strong at 81. In our rather un-charming world today, As is to be expected in British histori- CGI manipulated films (which are total books: The Magician’s Nephew (first) and Rated R for language throughout, drug content, cal drama, especially those that concern the artifice) designed for sensory overload with The Final Battle (last). After the success of some violence and sexuality. Royal Family, the period recreation is im- completely implausible action sequences, are the Harry Potter series (also 7 books) and REVIEW BY MICHELLE KEENAN peccable. Add to this some fine camerawork OK, but do an old-fashioned caper drama Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings adapta- ‘Movies’ continued on page 16

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‘Movies’ continued from page 15 Sharon Van Etten at Broadway tion it was only natural that someone would he name Sharon Van Etten may attempt to do Narnia. The results have been BY JAMES CASSARA mixed to say the least. be a new one on the musical ho- The Lion, the Witch, & the Wardrobe, rizon, but over the the most popular book in the series, was a past year she’s been good first movie. It was well cast and had wowing and wooing Tcrowds from coast to coast. the proper mix of interesting characters and imaginative special effects. The follow-up Since releasing Epic, her Prince Caspian suffered from being too first full length album on much like Lord of the Rings, concentrating the Ba Da Ding label, she’s more on epic battles than on ideas and char- Jeff Bridges and Hailee Steinfeld played the Pitchfork Music acterization. With The Voyage of the Dawn in True Grit. Festival and toured relent- Treader the series has gotten caught up in the lessly across the land. She’s 3-D craze and it nearly sinks the whole film. understand. At 61 he is exactly the same age busily preparing new materi- As I often do with these movies, I chose as John Wayne was when he played the part. al while focusing on smaller to see the regular 2-D version to see how It’s a rock solid portrayal but I never really gigs. It’s an environment that well the film fares without the 3-D process. warmed to Bridges’ Rooster and as a result I allows her to showcase the The first half hour of Dawn Treader was like didn’t care about him. earnest lyrics, charmingly a throwback to the 1950s with 3-D effects Matt Damon has no trouble outshin- personal performances, and galore and very little else. The filmmakers as- ing Glen Campbell in the Texas Ranger role astounding voice that have sume you read the books or saw the first two although I found his voice and mannerisms earned her both praise and adoring fans offerings and waste no time on any kind of affected and somewhat annoying. Josh Bro- all across the country. lin gets third billing on the poster but he has IF Sharon Van Etten at background. Once the three characters get to While the dead of winter may not Broadway’s in downtown less screen time than the character did the Narnia, things improve and the film follows always be the best time to see live music, YOU Asheville, on Sunday, January the intriguing story fairly closely. first time around, and his role could have the sounds of Sharon Van Etten may be GO 23. For more information The Dawn Treader is a ship, headed up been played by almost anyone. just the tonic to chase away those cold and song samples go to www. by Prince Caspian, in search of 7 lords who The real eye opener here is Hailee Stein- weather blues. myspace.com/sharonvanetten. are scattered throughout the known Narnian feld as Mattie Ross. A vast improvement over world. Joining Lucy and Edmund Pevensie Kim Darby, she dominates every scene she’s (no Peter or Susan this time around) is their in, which is as it should be, since the book is selfish, spoiled cousin Eustace who is trans- really about Mattie and not Rooster Cogburn. Red June at Black Mountain formed into a dragon to learn the error of his She is totally believable as a strong willed 14 ways. They visit 7 different locales and collect year old and had me rooting for her after her Center for the Arts each Lord’s sword before arriving at the edge first big scene with the horse trader. In fact of the world with the next world just beyond. she was the only character in this version who kept my interest throughout. ed June, the Aslan the lion (voiced by Liam Neeson) is Asheville-based waiting for them with an important message. The Coens said they wanted to make a film more faithful to the book than the ’69 acoustic Ameri- Director Michael Apted has had a dis- cana trio, recently tinguished career (Coal Miner’s Daughter, version and they have. Too faithful. While it’s nice to see certain things restored like the released their de- Agatha, Nell) but there’s no trace of him Rbut album, titled Remem- Ranger’s original fate and especially the bit- here. Just a cop directing traffic, depending ber Me Well. on CGI, and collecting his paycheck. Not tersweet epilogue, this faithfulness slows the film down as it tries too hard to evoke the Funded, in part, by nearly as good as Witch but better than Cas- a grant from the Ashe- pian, Dawn Treader fails to live up to the period. Although the original is 20 minutes longer, (I rented it right after seeing this ville Area Arts Council, potential of its source material but should Remember Me Well leads please most fans anyway. one), it seemed shorter as I became more involved with the performers. listeners on an emotional Rated PG-13 for frightening images and se- Where the first film really has this one journey, highlighted by quences of fantasy action. beat is in the supporting actor category. With the band’s thoughtful and REVIEW BY CHIP KAUFMANN names like Robert Duvall, Dennis Hopper, innovative songwriting, heartfelt vocals, tasteful Red June features Natalya Weinstein on fiddle, Will Strother Martin, and Jeff Corey, they make Straughan on dobro, and John Cloyd Miller on guitar. True Grit ∑∑∑1/2 the most of their individual scenes in a way instrumental work and the actors here do not. The Coens want soaring harmonies. Short Take: The Coen Brothers remake Mountain Center for the Arts, located at 225 ensemble performances a la Robert Alt- Red June is made up of three talent- of the classic John Wayne film suffers W. State Street, on Saturday, February 26. man which gives the film a realistic feel, a la ed, veteran musicians, singers and song- from too slow a pace and a lack of their Show begins at 7:30 with no ticket reserva- Deadwood, but ultimately it fails to engage writers: Will Straughan (formerly of the signature quirkiness. tions, admission is a suggested donation us because, let’s face it, we go to see a Coen Emma Gibbs Band), John Cloyd Miller REEL TAKE: There are a number of people made at the door of $10. Brothers movie not for realism but for their (formerly of Lo-Fi Breakdown) and who are quite bent out of shape about the creative quirkiness. True Grit is a pretty Natalya Weinstein (of Polecat Creek and Coens’ remake of the classic 1969 John Wayne good movie, and looked at all together it’s Lo-Fi Breakdown). The Red June sound film without ever having seen it. Comparing better than the first one. Just not as enter- is as versatile as the musicians themselves; the two really isn’t fair but it’s unavoidable. IF For more information about taining. (See Cauley Bennett’s True Grit they touch on bluegrass, roots rock, old- the band or to purchase/listen Jeff Bridges makes a convincing Rooster book review on page 26.) time and traditional country music. YOU to Remember Me Well, please Cogburn wearing his eye patch over the Recently invited to the International GO visit www.redjunemusic.com. right eye (Wayne wore his over the left) Rated PG-13 for sequences of Western violence Folk Alliance Conference in Memphis and disturbing images. For information about the and speaking in an even more gravelly voice TN where they will perform in mid- Black Mountain Center for the Arts, which makes him occasionally hard to REVIEW BY CHIP KAUFMANN February, Red June will then return visit www.blackmountainarts.org or call home for an intimate show at the Black (828) 669-0930.

16 January 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS stage preview Six Characters in Search of an Author he Aquila Theatre Company, BY KATE JUSTUS directed by Peter Meineck, pres- ents back-to-back performances of Pirandello’s Six Characters in through Aquila’s fresh and imaginative stage Search of an Author, 8 p.m. Friday, interpretation. TFebruary 4, and Shakespeare’s A Midsum- In addition to its evening performances, mer Night’s Dream, 8 p.m. Saturday, Febru- Aquila Theatre Comapny presents the full- ary 5 at Diana Wortham Theatre at Pack length version of A Midsummer Night’s Place in downtown Asheville. Dream for students and teachers as part of Aquila Theatre Company is one of the the Diana Wortham Theatre Young Audi- foremost producers of touring theater and is ence Series, 10 a.m. on Monday, February 7. widely renowned for bringing a thoroughly modern sensibil- ity to great classics throughout the United States and abroad. Its mission is to make classical works accessible to the greater public using innovative takes on strong scripts. Over the past several Mainstage Series sea- sons, Asheville audiences have come to know and anticipate the annual repertory offering of this creative company. On February 4, Aq- uila presents an exciting new production of Nobel Laure- ate Luigi Pirandello’s famous drama, Six Characters in Search of an Author. This relevant and poignant production dares to ask fundamental questions about the very nature of art and entertainment, blurring the IF Tickets available by phoning line between reality and artifice. (828) 257-4530 or visit www. Then on February 5, Aquila present an YOU dwtheatre.com. Reservations exciting new take on Shakespeare’s timeless GO for the School Show may be comedy, A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Set made by calling Rae Geoffrey against a classical Athenian backdrop, the at (828) 257-4544 x307 or send an story explores the universal theme of love email to [email protected].

Montford Park Players Seeks Directors FOR 2011 OUTDOOR SEASON he Montford Park Players, North July 1-3; August 5-7; September 9-18: The Carolina’s longest running Shake- Asheville Shakesperience – a return engage- Going Beyond Racism speare Festival, is seeking direc- ment by our resident repertory company tors for its 2011 outdoor season. with all new material. Through Understanding & Respect Interviews will be held Saturday, July 8-31: All’s Well That Ends Well – an- TJanuary 8. other great Shakespeare comedy. Join us for compelling dialogue, The season will include: August 12 - September 4: Julius Caesar – the May 12-29: Complete Works of Wm. Shake- classic tragedy of the struggle between the community building, and a call to action. speare (abridged) – The Next Generation conflicting demands of honour, patriotism, – The funniest show you are likely to see in and friendship. your lifetime! Applicants should download the Direc- NEXT NINE WEEK SESSION June 3-26: Double Falsehood/Comedy of Er- tor Application and Director Guidelines at Mondays from 7-9 pm at MAHEC, 501 Biltmore Avenue rors, by William Shakespeare – a “double fea- www.montfordparkplayers.org under the ture” evening of great comedy, including one “Show Info” tab. Please email a written ap- January 24 - March 21, 2011 of the first productions in the United States plication to [email protected], of this work recently determined to be writ- and contact the Managing Director at (828) Register online at www.buildingbridges-asheville.org ten at least partly by William Shakespeare! 254-5146 for more information. 5HJLVWUDWLRQ)HH‡For more information call 828-777-4585

Vol. 14, No. 5 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — January 2011 17 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE southern comfort A JOURNAL OF SHORT STORIES BY JUDY AUSLEY 2011: A New Start anuary may be a new start for many of BY JUDY AUSLEY us. Reflections on our lives and predic- tions for a better year in 2011 seem so far-fetched and out of reach. The time only homeless people, I am talking about of the year that I am writing this is the everyone you meet. I can always tell that the J weekend before Christmas. It is always person needs someone to listen for a minute a sad time of the year for me. or two. Listen good and you may decide, like Frankly, those of us who diddle in I often do, that others have worse situations astrology know that, for double Geminis like in their lives than I do. me, this past year has had us at the bottom By now, if you read this column you are of the barrel for 12 months. I have been most likely saying, “Where is this going?” clawing all year to get to the top, but I have Or, “This is not about art!” To that I will only slipped deeper. say, it may not be what you think. This is I want a GOOD year in 2011! just a little exercise in the art of people. Over the years people always said to There are people everywhere nowadays, me, “You always look like you don’t have a just in a daze. Many have that depressed, worry in the world.” I used to think silently empty-glazed look in their eyes that we all to myself, “What does not having a worry can get in time of distress. The news is dis- in the world look like?” God, if they only mal and horrible most of the time and you knew. I also think think there is really this when I meet There is peace of mind and not that much to ment but you have to find it and create it. someone and they look forward to What will I be doing in 2011? I do not have Writer Judy Ausley has ask how I am. contentment but you have to in 2011. I feel that a clue at the moment, but there is one thing been a reporter with newspapers in NC for Nine times out of find it and create it. way now and I am I intend to do and that is find a park bench 40 years. She retired 10 people do not still searching. someplace and talk with the next person People running here and there on every who sits down next to me. in 2005 and continues tell the truth, and most of us reply “Okay,” to freelance at her corner spending money on some gift that That person may need me as much as I while some of us are dying inside. home in Asheville. She can be contacted costs far too much. For what? It is like an One thing I generally do is talk with a need to listen to every word they say. by e-mail at [email protected]. If you stranger, whoever they may be or wherever addiction. You do it anyway even though If I write a story about that person then I know a character in Asheville who has not they may have come from to get here at this you know in your head that you should not! will feel good about me. It always works and had a conventional life, put them in touch moment. Often it pays off for me, being a A friend came to me the other day com- that is why I am looking forward to what life with Judy for an article in this column, writer and storyteller. Most of the time I see plaining about spending too much on gifts. brings in 2011, as simple as it may be. Southern Comfort. a story and a need to talk more to this per- I said, “Well if you stay home and stay busy son. It would be a better place for us all if we doing things you should be doing around did more “people shopping” and forgot the home, you won’t spend money.” In this rest of the needless gifts that we intend to economy and the way things are in Wash- buy. Just sit down on a bench someplace in ington, D.C. these days, none of us should Call for Artists Asheville or wherever and give 15 minutes be spending with abandonment. Because it of your time to another person. will come back to bite us in another day. INSTRUCTORS, DEMONSTRATORS, AND PERFORMERS You will feel like you have done some- I don’t know how life will be in 2011 thing good for some person in need. And for me. But I do know one thing: I am a lot he Cultural Arts Division of City art forms (sculpture, metal working, wood- the aura that you have will give you hope for better off than most people I know. And, of Asheville Parks, Recreation working, ceramics, furniture making, etc.), another day. There is an abundance of folks I know one true thing about me: I will and Cultural Arts Department is as well as dance, music, theater, circus arts, wandering around town with no destination continue my “people shopping” in search seeking instructors, demonstrators, new media, textile arts, folk art, paper arts, in mind; they are just wandering from one of someone to tell me a story about their and performers for cultural arts bookmaking, candle making, and literary Tprogramming throughout Asheville. arts. All art forms are welcome. place to the other trying to fill the deep hole lives, their problems and their search for in their hearts. happiness. The Cultural Arts Division works with This call is open to all artists age 18 With this, I am not talking about There is peace of mind and content- instructors, demonstrators and performers to years and older who currently live or work provide hands-on art classes, demonstrations in Buncombe, Madison, Yancey, McDowell, or performances to children, teens, adults, Rutherford, Henderson, Transylvania, and and seniors throughout the community. Haywood Counties. Artists are invited to submit portfolios Artists, demonstrators and performers of their current work along with a resume, are invited to attend community meetings letter of interest, and references. Artists may to ask questions. Current meeting dates are: submit as individuals or as teams. Wednesday, January 12 at 2 p.m. at the Fine The application deadline is Monday, Arts League; Monday, January 31 at 6 p.m. February 28, 2011. All application materials at Recreation Park; Thursday, February 10 Advertising Sales Representatives must be submitted online through CaFÉ™ at 6 p.m. at the Fine Arts League. Additional at www.callforentry.org. There are no fees dates will be scheduled. Rapid River Magazine is Seeking Experienced Sales Personnel for artists to apply or to use the CaFÉ online Help us promote local arts, organizations, and businesses. Great for retirees application system. For detailed information and to submit needing extra income. Set your own hours – potential earnings are up to you! Art forms may include, but are not applications, visit www.callforentry.org or Some experience necessary. Seniors are encouraged to apply. limited to, all two-dimensional art forms contact Diane Ruggiero, Superintendent (drawing, painting, printmaking, photogra- of Cultural Arts at druggiero@ashevillenc. INTERESTED? Call (828) 646-0071, or e-mail [email protected] phy, encaustic, etc.), all three dimensional gov or (828) 259-5815.

18 January 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS performance Make Time for Three VIRTUOSIC AND VERSATILE STRING TRIO TO ENERGIZE THE STAGE hen it comes to choosing live music in January, it’s Time For Transcends traditional Three. No, not three concerts, rather, three extraordinarily classification. talented young musicians. The Wcategory-defying string trio Time For Three improvisatory forms. The ensemble gained transcends traditional classification, earning instant attention in July 2003, during a a reputation for limitless enthusiasm and lightning-induced power failure at Phila- broken musical boundaries. delphia’s Mann Center for the Performing Arts, when Ranaan and Zach, both performing members of The Phila- delphia Orchestra, obliged with an impromptu jam session that included works as far afield from the originally scheduled symphony as “Jerusalem’s Ridge,” “Ragtime Annie,” and “The Orange Blossom Special.” The crowd went wild. To date, the group has already performed hundreds of engage- ments as diverse as their music, from featured guest solos with The Philadelphia Orchestra to open- ing sets for K.D. Lang. They have appeared on many of the nation’s important stages, including the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston and the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Time For Three’s live perfor- mances have been praised by media from the Denver Post (“Kinetic showmanship – fingers on fire, with power and gusto.”), to the Chicago Tribune (“The piece de resistance… A roaring ovation!”), and the Indianapolis Star (“Spon- taneity of expression, technical aplomb…might be matchless anywhere.”) Upcoming shows include the Photo: Vanessa Briceno-Scherzer extraordinary string trio Time For Three, and Tony-Award award Boundless youthful curiosity. winner and recent Kennedy Center Honoree Bill T. Jones. For more information please visit www.ashe- On January 15 at 7:30 p.m. Time For villebravoconcerts.org. Three presents another family-friendly of- fering from Asheville Bravo Concerts. The appeal of the trio spans across the genera- Curious listeners can hear Time For Three for tions, for their respect for the Classical rep- themselves on YouTube and the trio’s MySpace music page, www.myspace.com/timeforthree. ertoire and precise technique are matched by the boundless youthful curiosity with which they bend rules and integrate different musi- cal styles into their program. Indeed, they IF Time For Three, presented are “on a mission to transform, reinvigorate, by Asheville Bravo Concerts, and grow the Classical audience,” by adding YOU the area’s oldest arts non- elements of Blues, Gypsy, Bluegrass and GO profit. At the Thomas Wolfe Jazz into the mix. The youthful group forms Auditorium. Individual a blend all their own, carrying a passion for tickets range from $20-$60 and can be improvisation, composing and arranging. purchased by calling the Asheville Bravo Violinists Zachary De Pue and Nico- Concerts office at (828) 225-5887, visiting las Kendall already shared a mutual love www.ticketmaster.com, or in person at the of bluegrass fiddling when bassist Ranaan Civic Center Box Office. Students receive Meyer introduced them to jazz and various half-price tickets for all Bravo concerts.

Vol. 14, No. 5 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — January 2011 19

prints color RAPID RIVER ARTS r i n g performance in the new designs ALO D ts Wrl-Rnwne from Paula C l r’s Opr n celebration of its 5th anniversary, BY KATIE CHEN Dawkins the Asheville Lyric Opera’s Education Opera Project is proud to present the delightful children’s opera, Brundibár, by the Czech composer Hans Krása. The program will feature I An opera written for a cast of children, poetry readings, and all roles will be played by local students dance by Asheville Ballet. selected by open audition, and they will be directed by Ashe- ville Lyric Opera (ALO) company manager and the project’s founder, Fine Jewelry and Design Studio Kristen Yarbor- ough. In addition to the full-length white & yellow production of gold ring Brundibár, the with sapphire program will www.jewelsthatdance.com feature poetry readings, dance by Asheville Ballet, (AYWOOD3Ts!SHEVILLE .#s  s(OURS-ON 3AT  as well as string chamber works by Krása. Brundibár, the world-re- nowned twenti- Photo courtesy of Opera Omaha and photographer, Dawn Sumrell. eth-century opera that emerged from the darkness of Central fessionals presented a full production of Europe in the 1930s, portrays the classic Amahl and the Night Visitors. story of good triumphing over evil through In addition to the public performances a colorful story about children overcoming on Asheville High School’s stage, two school a bully. A Czech Jewish man himself, Krása performances were offered to local schools originally wrote the opera for an orphanage free of charge as a part of the program’s in his hometown as encouragement to the mission. Each year since then, the Educa- children and the community during the try- tion Opera Program has moved to other ing times of early World War II. high schools in the Asheville area (including Though its debut was in Prague in 1942, T.C. Roberson, A.C. Reynolds and North the opera has become well known for the fif- Buncombe High School) and produced a ty-five performances by children in the con- one-act opera with the students; an incred- centration camp, Theresienstadt. The unique ibly unique collaboration of school and historical context in which opera was written, opera professionals, and all in the name of and both the musical and cultural signifi- education and community outreach. cance of the opera provide a rich educational ALO’s debut of Brundibár marks the experience to all involved, an experience that 5th anniversary celebration of the ALO Edu- the Education Opera Program always seeks cation Opera Program, and measures have to provide its audience. been taken to ensure that this year’s perfor- At its core, the Education Opera Pro- mance is special. This will be the first year gram is an interdisciplinary program that that the education opera will be performed focuses on using opera performance as a at the Diana Wortham Theatre, and it will means for enhancing curriculum taught also be the first time that the program works in high school. The project began in 2006, with students from multiple schools and when Asheville High School became a backgrounds in the Buncombe County area, training ground for this unique opera pro- including children from private schools, duction program. In collaboration with the public schools and home-school networks high school educators, ALO professionals simultaneously. offered intensive classes to music and the- In addition to the public shows, Ashe- atre students in voice and vocal anatomy, ville City and Buncombe County school as well as light, sound, costume and set districts will be bussing in up to 2,000 design. And at the end of two months, students for the four student performances Asheville High School and the ALO pro- offered free of charge during the school day.

20 January 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 5

prints color RAPID RIVER ARTS performance

Bending rules and mixing styles, on a mission to transform and reinvigorate the classical audience. Saturday, Jan. 15 @ 7:30 pm Photo courtesy of Opera Omaha and photographer, Dawn Sumrell. Thomas Wolfe Auditorium For more information about the produc- A rich, educational tion of Brundibár, please visit the Asheville Lyric Opera’s website at www.ashevillelyric. “Kinetic showmanship — fingers on fire!” ~ The Denver Post experience. org, or call (828) 236-0670. A lecture series will be offered about this opera at Malaprop’s Jazz • Blues • Gypsy • Classical • Bluegrass The entire production is a feat that has Bookstore, and the Jewish Community Cen- taken much planning and cooperation from ter throughout the month of January. For Tickets $20–$60 • Students 1/2 price • Tickets available at the Civic Center everyone involved. The production is surely more information about the lecture series, Box Office, ticketmaster.com or828.225.5887 • ashevillebravoconcerts.org an example of what can be accomplished please contact those venues directly. through the collaboration, cooperation, and support of the local community. Specifically, ALO would like to thank IF Performances will be on the program sponsor, Volvo Construction, Saturday, January 29, at for its financial support; Wachovia Founda- YOU 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. at the tion and Asheville Area Arts Council for GO Diana Wortham Theatre (the grant support; and the Asheville City and Saturday evening performance Buncombe County school systems, the lo- has replaced the performance that was cal private schools involved, and the city’s originally scheduled for Friday, January 28). home-school network for all of the coop- To purchase tickets go to the Diana eration and support that they have given. Wortham Theatre website at www. Without it, this extensive production would dwtheatre.com, or call their box office at not be possible. (828) 257-4530.

MEET THE DIRECTORS & DESIGNERS Meet the Directors of Asheville Meet the Designers of Asheville Lyric Opera’s Brundibar Lyric Opera’s Brundibar January 13 at 7 p.m. January 18 at 7 p.m. Meet Dr. David Starkey, director of Meet Kristen Yarborough and Jayne Asheville Lyric Opera, and Dr. Vance Harnett-Hargrove, as they discuss artistic Reese, musical director of Asheville design and concept as related to the Lyric Opera’s production of Brundibar, Asheville Lyric Opera’s production of as they discuss the music of Hans Krasa Brundibar, as well as the goals of ALO’s and this wonderful opera! “education opera project.” IF YOU GO: Malaprop’s Bookstore/Café, 55 Haywood Street, downtown Asheville. Call (828) 254-6734, or visit www.malaprops.com.

Vol. 14, No. 5 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — January 2011 21

prints color Asheville Playback Theatre RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE invites you to “Life Stages” “Improv that Honors Real Life Stories” performance The Peabody Trio to Perform Part of Asheville Chamber Music Series

he third concert of the 58th season BY PAMELA MILLER of the Asheville Chamber Music Series (ACMS) will be presented on Friday, January 21, 2010, featur- the repertoire, advocates for ing The Peabody Trio. new music, and dedicated TThe program includes Dancer on a teachers and mentors to a Tightrope, Sofia Gubaidulina composer, generation of young musi- Friday, January 7 at 8 PM Johannes Brahms, Trio No. 2 in C major cians. Op. 87 Stille Musik, Alfred Schnittke and They bring to their Saturday, January 8 at 2 PM Trio No. 1 in D minor Op. 49 by Felix music making what The Kids Show - for kids & everyone else Mendelssohn Washington Post calls “the romantic fervor of the Saturday, January 8 at 8 PM On Thursday, January 20th a “Pre- Concert Talk” by Bill Clark, president of 20th century greats.” The Sunday, January 9 at 2 PM the Asheville Area Piano Forum will be members’ extreme focus, All Woman Cast presented at the Reuter Center at UNCA. lack of ego and purity of sound The program will begin at 4:15 PM and is testify to their commitment to serving the IF The concert will take place Danny Ellis, singer/storyteller free and open to the public. music first. Their performances “effervesce, YOU at the Unitarian Universalist opens both evening shows. Since winning the prestigious Naum- take flight, and soar… all three players seem GO Church of Asheville, located 1 burg Chamber Music Award in 1989, The fused as one, their voices gentle, sincere, Edwin Pl. at Charlotte Street, NC Stage - 15 Stage Lane Peabody Trio, members Violaine Melançon, and heartfelt,” says The Strad., June 2009. at 8 p.m. Tickets are available Across from Zambra’s violin, Natasha Brofsky, cello and Seth for $35 at the door on a first come, first served basis. Students under 25 are admitted Tickets: $10 Adults; $5 Students. Knopp, piano, has established itself as an For more information call (828) 259-3626 or Doors open 30 minutes prior to each show. important presence in the chamber music free of charge (space permitting). To pre- world as vivid interpreters of the classics of go to www.main.nc.us/ashevillechambermusic order tickets call (828) 259-3626. (828) 779-3062 www.ashevilleplayback.org 2011 Hendersonville Chamber Music Schedule f you think of chamber music as April 17 – Parrini Piano Trio BY ROBERT WILEY old-fashioned and stuffy, think again. North Greenville University’s Fabio Because Hendersonville Chamber Music Parrini has won numerous prizes both in brings chamber music up to date and his native Italy and the U.S. Violinist Naho and Sonny Thornton on drums. Now add then some! Tsutsui Parrini is an active recitalist in the the pure, unembel lished voice of Sharon I Featuring five quite different perform- New York Metro politan area, and a member LaMotte and you have the perfect recipe for ing groups, this year’s performance sched- of the Hyperion String Quartet. Cellist smooth and mellow listening! ule is sure to attract audiences who simply Alberto Parrini regularly performs with the May 22 — Kontras String Quartet enjoy great music, both classical and, for the American Chamber Players. A rare family first time, jazz, brilliantly performed. visit allows all three to perform for us! Founded by members of Chicago’s The series leads off with a brilliant trio Civic Orchestra, Kontras is the 2010 winner that features Brevard Music Center’s Artis- May 1 – Bill Gerhardt Trio with of Western Piedmont Symphony’s highly tic Director pianist Bruce Murray perform- Sharon LaMotte coveted three-year residency program. The ing with BMC’s violinist Jason Posnock and A modern jazz icon, pianist and arrang- quartet mixes and blends a sumptuous inter- flutist Dilshad Posnock. er, and Down Beat Magazine award winner national flavor. Violinists Dmitri Pogorelov pianist Bill Gerhardt performs in New is Russian and Francois Henkins, South 2011 PERFORMANCES York and Europe but now resides mostly in African; violist Ai Ishida is Japanese and cel- list Jean Hatmaker, American. February 27 – Brevard Music Center Asheville. The group has Zack Page on bass Piano Trio Enjoy an afternoon of delicious music with BMC Artistic Director Bruce Mur- IF Hendersonville Chamber ray at the piano; Dilshad Posnock, former YOU Music Concerts, at the Director of the Artist Diploma Program at GO First Congregational Carnegie Mellon, on flute and Brevard’s Church in Hendersonville. Performances are on Sunday Associate Artistic Administrator Jason Pos- and begin at 3 p.m. Subscriptions nock, violin. for all five concerts are $70. Mail a check March 20 – EastWind Quintet or money order payable to HFCM to Hendersonville Chamber Music, PO Box This resident faculty quintet at UNC- 271 Hendersonville, NC 28793. Greensboro, delights worldwide audiences with its savory Baroque to modern reper- Individual tickets at $17 are also available at toire! Mary Ashley Barret, oboe; Anthony Hendersonville Visitors Center with a dollar Taylor, clarinet; Steven Stusek, saxophone; per ticket surcharge, and at the door on day Kelly Burke, bass clarinet; and Michael of performance. More information at (828) 697-0455 or (828) 890-4411 or visit www. Burns, bassoon. Chicago’s prize-winning Kontras Quartet. hendersonvillechambermusic.org.

22 January 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 5

prints color RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE noteworthy

{Re}HAPPENING 2011 Celebrate Innovation & at the Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center Collaboration in the Arts

he Media Arts Project (MAP) and viewer to choose to see and www.themap.org, a dynamic portfolio the Black Mountain College Mu- or experience in the and networking site. seum + Arts Center (BMCM+AC) moment, possibly miss- will host the second annual ing something going About The Black Mountain T{Re}HAPPENING, on Saturday, on in another space, College Museum + Arts Center April 9 in the original dining hall of the for- but knowing that they The Black Mountain College Museum mer Black Mountain College, now Camp are part of the creative + Arts Center (BMCM+AC) preserves and Rockmont. A kick-off event showcased process that is transpir- continues the unique legacy of educational video of the performances and installation ing around them.” and artistic innovation of Black Mountain art from last year’s event, held at Bobo Gal- In partnership with College. We achieve our mission through lery on December 14. the MAP, this BMCM collection, conservation, and educational Inspired by our idea of what a +AC event pays tribute activities including exhibitions, publications, typical Saturday night at Black Moun- to Black Mountain and public programs. tain College might have been like, the College by bringing its dynamic energy into About the Media Arts Project {Re}HAPPENING begins with a meal the present day. The project has developed – with tastes from over a dozen different as an innovative fundraising and art-based The Media Arts Project (MAP) cul- local restaurants and farms – surrounded by collaboration between the two non-profits, tivates innovative arts and technology in IF Contact us or stop by for art. Various performances happen around balancing the history, innovation and expe- western North Carolina. Because the media YOU more info or to purchase the seated audience. During the second rience of BMCM+AC, with the forward- arts are integral to the vibrant cultural and GO tickets for the event: Black Mountain College Museum half of the evening the dining hall becomes thinking and media-based collective of economic life of the region, the MAP pro- vides ways for media artists to connect with + Arts Center, 56 Broadway, the main performance space, while music, artists that defines the MAP. Asheville. Phone (828) 350-8484 or multimedia art and more takes place across The April 9, 2011 event will begin with resources, professional opportunities, and one another through events, grant programs, email [email protected] for more the rest of the campus into the night. a cocktail social, leading into a seated “fam- details. Nearly 400 people attended the inau- ily style” dinner. The second part of the gural event in 2010. For a detailed look at evening will include drinks, light appetizers the 2010 {Re}HAPPENING, please visit and an extended evening of art, perfor- www.rehappening.com to view photos and mance & dancing. Tickets for the entire video from the show. evening including dinner are $50 ($40 for “The BMC campus will be trans- BMCM+AC and MAP members). For the formed into site-specific art spaces where second half only, the ticket price is $15 ($10 everything from sculptural video instal- for members). lation, to interactive sculpture, to multi- Vinnie’s Neighborhood Italian will media-based performance takes place,” again provide the main course, and dozens said Gene Felice, a board member of both of local restaurants will contribute. The organizations and the artist coordinating the 2011 artist lineup will be announced soon. event. “The idea is that art is ‘happening’ Visit www.rehappening.com for updates. all around us simultaneously. It’s up to the

Asheville Symphony 50th Anniversary Commemorative Book and DVD

or their 50th anniversary, the Asheville Symphony Orchestra cracked open the archives and cre- ated a wonderful book Fcelebrating their past 50 years. Learn about their history, see who’s performed with them, and follow their journey as they become one of Western North Carolina’s largest non-profit arts providers. The book has a great time- line and even comes with a Daniel Meyer, Music Director of the Asheville Symphony. DVD of music director Daniel Photo: Michael Morel Meyer telling the ASO’s story, along with interviews from some of the calling (828) 254-7046 or visit www.ashe- Asheville Symphony Orchestra’s VIPs. villesymphony.org. Asheville Symphony, Purchase this set now for $20 through PO Box 2852, Asheville, NC. the Asheville Symphony Orchestra office by

Vol. 14, No. 5 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — January 2011 23 Rapid River RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE poetry & poets th 14 Annual Poetry Contest J Cl r: A lac i’s “Rn ss nc M ” 5 Winners he label “Renaissance Man” explore great events (the BY TED OLSON Prizes Include: Tickets to local concerts; is bandied about these days Civil War) and special occa- with no particular regard for sions (Barton College’s cen- Tickets to the Opera; Mellow Mushroom Gift its history or connotations. tennial and a friend’s 50th traditional poetic Certificates; and books from Malaprops. An on-line web-source de- birthday). A sample poem forms, Reece’s Tfines a “Renaissance Man” as “A man (below) from Notions is poems about Any Unpublished Poem who has broad intellectual interests Clark’s elegiac quatrain upon life in the hills and is accomplished in areas of both the death of rock musician are subtly lyrical 35 Lines or Less is Wanted! the arts and the sciences.” Warren Zevon, “Play That while evoking universal themes; Deadline January 15, 2011. Granted the gender-bias implicit Dead Man’s Song”: and, quite com- Reading Fee: $5 for three poems. Winning poems in this definition, mendably, his po- will be printed in the February 2011 issue. For more clearly our world’s Alas for the quick, alas for the dead, ems are anything information please call (828) 258-3752. emphasis on special- The skeleton fool who jingled grim cheer ization lessens the Jim Clark but sentimental. Send poems to: Rapid River Ascends the carriage whose horses’ heads likelihood that any Incline toward Eternity. His ride’s here. For instance, the Poetry Contest, 85 N. Main St., Canton, NC 28716 one person — re- poem “Song after Harvest”: gardless of his or her gender or “intelligence” — will amass In addition to his writ- a sufficient range of abilities and ac- ing and his music, Clark Now we are done with the last bundle complishments so as to be tagged with is known for his role in Of rye and wheat. such an all-encompassing term. I’m bringing to a wider reader- What was green in the fields of spring not a big fan of labels — they are more ship the poems of Byron And bronze in summer’s problematic than helpful. That said, Herbert Reece (1917- Is now meal in the barrel “Renaissance Man” is an apt way of 1958), an underappreciated Or bread to eat. describing Jim Clark. author from the hills of This was no labor of love A native of Tennessee’s Cumber- north Georgia. But sweat will sweeten land Plateau, and presently a professor A 2002 book edited by The bread from the salted brow; of Southern literature and creative Clark, Fable in the Blood: When the snows come writing at Barton College, in Wilson, The Selected Poems of We will give grave thanks for the bread, eaten North Carolina, Clark is a widely Byron Herbert Reece, fea- To the last crumb. respected and multi-talented man tures a thorough overview of letters, having produced his own of Reece’s poetry along writings in several genres — poems, with Clark’s introductory essay, which As a logical outgrowth of his love short stories, plays, creative nonfiction conveys with clarity and compassion for music and his respect for Reece’s Advertise with Rapid River Magazine pieces, academic essays — and having the personal and aesthetic struggles in work, Clark in November 2010 released edited journals and books compiling Reece’s tragic life. The Service of Song, a CD showcasing (828) 646-0071 other authors’ creative writings. In Clark’s assessment, Reece was his memorable performances of twelve Free web links • Free ad design Complementing his literary and forgotten after his death by suicide songs that feature lyrics by Reece set to scholarly talents, Clark composes origi- because he was “a rustic folk poet” Clark’s musical arrangements. (Clark’s Easy monthly billing nal songs, and he is a skilled performer whose “direct, unassuming, organic first CD, Buried Land [2003], juxta- of his own type of “Americana” music, appropriation of his traditional sources posed his recitations of some of his own singing with a distinctive voice and went against modernist orthodoxy.” poems interspersed with his perfor- playing several acoustic instruments. Discovered by Appalachian mances of Appalachian folk songs.) While he likely wouldn’t con- “farmer-poet” Jesse Stuart, Reece went Expertly blending Clark’s progres- sider himself a “Renaissance Man” against the grain of his times because sive musicianship with Reece’s timeless — he is humble, even self-deprecat- he wrote about what he knew, and lyrics, The Service of Song honors Ap- ing when speaking about his range what he knew was farming. As Reece palachia from the perspectives of two of of talents (in his “collected writings” said to a journalist, “Once when I was Appalachia’s most compelling voices. volume entitled Notions: A Jim Clark writing my first novel, I happened to Miscellany [2007], he calls himself remark to a correspondent that I had Ted Olson is the author of “an amateur dilettante”) — Clark been plowing potatoes. She wrote such books as Breathing recognizes that an artist needs sup- that I should concentrate on the book. in Darkness: Poems (Wind port in order for art to survive and to ‘Anybody can plow potatoes,’ she said. Publications, 2006) and Blue Ridge Folklife flourish; hence, he maintains a web- ‘Anybody can plow potatoes,’ I wrote (University Press of site dedicated to his work, viewable at in return, ‘but nobody is willing to Mississippi, 1998) and he www.jimclarkpoet.com plow mine but me.’” is the editor of numerous Notions contains a generous sam- Reece possessed writing talent and books, including CrossRoads: A Southern pling of Clark’s prose works (memo- secured a supportive arrangement with Culture Annual (Mercer University Press, 2009). His experiences as a poet and rable short stories and insightful a major publisher (E.P. Dutton), yet, musician are discussed on www.windpub. personal and scholarly essays), his play despite forays to lowland schools and com/books/breathingindarkness.htm. The Girl with the Faraway Eye, as well bookstores for literary events, he always as nine new poems (Clark published returned to his family farm, in part to Poets who would like for their poetry to be two earlier poetry collections, Dancing tend the crops and in part to take care considered for a future column may send on Canaan’s Ruins [1983] and Handi- of his tubercular parents (he himself their books and manuscripts to Ted Olson, work [1998]). eventually contracted that disease). ETSU, Box 70400, Johnson City, TN 37614. Please include contact information These new poems impressively Crafted in simple language and and a SASE with submissions.

24 January 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE authors ~ books ~ readings

Incontinent on the Continent: REVIEWS BY CAULEY BENNETT

My Mother, Her Walker, and Our Grand Tour On its few good days, of Italy – written by Jane Christmas the trip was fun and the book includes wonderful memories

picked up Incontinent on the Continent only from guide books. She barely of Americans seeing Italy for We host numerous Readings, the first time. Miles of gor- JANUARY Bookclubs, as well as Poetrio! (Greystone Books, 2009) because of its factors her mother’s walker into the PARTIAL LISTING More events posted online. hilarious title. It hinted at a humorous, plans. Nor her arthritis, or inconti- geous seaside scenery, twisting heart-warming travel memoir about nence, or her fragile handle on the mountain roads, ancient villas, January 7 at 4:30 p.m. Freelance Friday I a nice, middle-aged daughter and her truth of her aging body. Every day incredible art everywhere with JOE D’AGNESE and DENISE KIERNAN. sweet little old lady mother during their fe- in Italy, Mom’s travel ambitions and unforgettable last days in January 7 at 7 p.m. Political Cartooning male bonding experience exceed her abilities. Venice. These scenes make you with DAVID COHEN, editor of The Best in beautiful Italy. Well, Her daughter “won’t Often she just wants to want to call your travel agent immediately. Editorial Cartoons of the Year. not quite. spend the day in bed But mostly — because Jane is clueless see that Mom is failing, January 8 at 3 p.m. JAMES and KENT LOY For some insane instead of sightseeing. and Mom is declining — the trip is a disap- authors of Emma Darwin: A Victorian Life. reason, Canadian author not faking.” Refusing to aban- pointment. Not a happy or funny story. But a great one. Thanks to Jane’s clear, fearless January 8 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Fastest Jane Christmas (What don her childish anger, Readings in the World featuring Warren the Psychic Told the Pilgrim) thinks a 6- Jane won’t see that Mom is failing, not prose, readers feel as if they’re passengers on Wilson College’s MFA Faculty. week tour of Italy with her mother — just faking. For example, Jane leaves Mom the trip with them. As painful as the book the two of them — would bandage 50 years unattended in a shopping plaza while she might be, it’s also an eye-opener and I rec- January 9 at 3 p.m. APRIL MOON presents ommend it to adult daughters everywhere. her cookbook, Breakfast & Beyond: of incessant disharmony. No one thought goes museum-hopping. When Jane returns, Comfort Food from Dawn to Dark. about taking a hassle-free Cosmo bus tour, her panic-stricken mother is screaming for The best part of Incontinent on the or a shorter tour, say three weeks, or even a help in a crowd of passersby. Instead of Continent was the tentative reconciliation January 12 at 7 p.m. LITERARY TRIVIA try-out trip closer to home. Being women, sympathizing with an old woman’s fear of the women made upon their return. The hosted by booksellers Lauren, Seth and Stella Harr – wonderful prizes! they were counting their tourist pennies so being alone, Jane is angry at what she thinks worst part of the tale is the pathetic fact that they went in the off-season — when almost is her mother’s Drama Queen pretensions. in the entire six weeks, they didn’t have even January 15 at 3 p.m. LOUISA SHAFIA everything was closed, including all the Unbelievably, Jane does the same thing a one good meal! A lesson to everyone who author of Lucid Food: Cooking for an Eco- decent restaurants in the country. few days later, with the same horrific results. wants to eat their way through Italy on the Conscious Life. Jane insists on driving through Italy in Like many other adult children, Jane is a off-season. January 16 at 3 p.m. WRITERS AT HOME a rental car and staying in hotels she knows slow learner where her mother is concerned. presented by UNC-A’s TOMMY HAYS. January 17 at 7 p.m. COMIX BOOKCLUB – Duncan The Wonder Dog by Adam Hines. January 21 at 7 p.m. KAREN ABBOTT, Selected Shorts: Even More Laughs author of American Rose: the Life and Times of Gypsy Rose Lee. Produced by Symphony Space January 23 at 3 p.m. BUD HARRIS Ph.d, and MASSIMILLA HARRIS Ph.d, authors of f you like to listen to town without a pool, who The Buncombe County Library system The Art of Love, The Craft of Relationship: laugh-out loud stories, gives the local exercise- has eight editions of these programs, which a Practical Guide for Creating the Loving you’ll love Even More challenged senior citizens you can order online. If you’re new to Relationships We Want. Laughs, the latest in the private swimming lessons library online services, you’re really missing January 29 at 3 p.m. HEATHER NEWTON I Selected Shorts series on the floor in her apart- out on one of our region’s greatest entertain- author of Under the Mercy Trees. from Symphony Space. ment. It’s narrated by ment centers. Visit your local library for help January 30 at 3 p.m. LOU DISCHLER author Selected Shorts is Parker Posey, who, known getting started. of My Only Sunshine. a series of live readings, as the ‘Queen of the Indies” produced by the famed for starring in over 30 inde- February 4 at 7 p.m. HANNAH PITTARD author of The Fates Will Find Their Way. Symphony Space multi- pendent movies, has a few media center in upper west funny stories to tell herself. February 5 at 3 p.m. ELIZABETH GILBERT, side New York. The short The most popular comic First Thrills: author of Committed: A Love Story. stories, of all genres, are tale in the history of the Ticketed event held at UNCA’s Lipinsky Auditorium. $22.24 includes book. written by classic authors such as Eudora Selected Shorts series High-Octane Stories from Welty and Hemingway, and the best con- is also included. It’s Ima Dream, Thom- the Hottest Thriller Authors temporary authors, including Philip Roth as Meehan’s wacky fantasy of a cocktail 55 Haywood St. and Amy Tan. Stars of stage and screen vie party whose guests have two-syllable names his short story collection consists of 828-254-6734 • 800-441-9829 with one another to perform the stories. — think Ida, Una, Anna, Ooona, Idi, Eli, 25 different thriller tales written by Monday-Saturday 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Even More Laughs consists of Willy, etc. — who all have to be introduced novelists and appearing in print here Sunday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. three hours of stories. The first is by as each new guest arrives. Christine Baranski for the first time. Mostly Americans, T.Coraghessan Boyle and performed by (TV’s The Good Wife) recreates the rapid Tthe authors range from well-known veterans comedian Stephen Colbert (The Colbert fire, tongue-twisting introductions, keeping such as Jeffrey Deaver to newbies who are Report). The Lie is a side-splitting tale of a everyone in stitches. There’s no laugh track just beginning to build up name recogni- hapless young husband, who uses a small on these recordings, it’s the real sound of the tion. The editor is Lee Child, author of the lie to play hooky from work, and then gets audience in New York having a great time. phenomenally successful Jack Reacher series drawn deeper and deeper into a tangled web (61 Hours, Delacorte, 2010). of deceit. It’s a masterpiece of comic dread One-hour taped versions of Selected Shorts are First Thrills (A Forge Book, 2010) and Colbert’s deadpan delivery makes it played every week on National Public Radio proves the increasing role of women writers even more uproarious. stations across the country. In Asheville, the Miranda July’s The Swim Team is program airs on Saturday mornings from 7 to 8 ‘First Thrills’ continued on page 26 about a young woman, stuck in a desert a.m. on WCQS, 88.1 FM.

Vol. 14, No. 5 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — January 2011 25 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE authors ~ books ~ readings

True Grit Decision Points REVIEWS BY CAULEY BENNETT

Written by Charles Portis. Written and read by George W. Bush that no WMD existed. Narrated by Donna Tartt It was interesting to find any years ago I intensely dis- information without going deeply out what Mr. Bush considered liked Nancy Reagan. I’d never into the thought process behind ne of the the greatest disappointment met her, I just disliked her on his decisions. Mr. Bush, like Sarah best mov- of his tenure — the failure to principle because she was mar- Palin, has never made pretension ies of this get social security reform. It season is Mried to Ronald Reagan whose that he likes to read much, or trav- was an effort that seemed to go theO Coen Broth- politics I opposed at the time. el outside the U.S., or learn about under everyone’s radar, includ- On a whim, I read a book on tape history except as it applies to the ers production of ing mine. A topic that surprised that she had written and narrated. When United States. I accepted those parameters in True Grit, starring me was how personally devastated he was by I finished the book, to my amazement, order to judge the effectiveness of his story. Jeff Bridges, Matt (bogus) charges that race played a role in the I discovered that the very personal tale First, Mr. Bush’s personal life. I’ve Damon, and Haliee federal government’s assistance after Hur- Mrs. Reagan told, combined with the always thought his wife Laura was the best Steinfeld. The main reason it’s such a good ricane Katrina. sound of her voice, completely trans- thing about Mr. Bush, and it was enjoyable movie is because it’s based on one of the I enjoyed hearing Mr. Bush’s com- formed my opinion of to hear him talk affection- best American novels of the last century. plaints about Democrats interspersed her. She had become ately about her and their Published by reclusive author Charles throughout because they gave me a different a real person in the …I enjoyed hearing early family life. I have a Portis in 1968, and the basis of the John view of what was going on during his ad- hours I had been Mr. Bush’s complaints hard time liking a male Wayne movie in 1969, True Grit is set in ministration from what I gleaned from news listening to her. I’ve politician who does not Arkansas of the 1870s. Fourteen-year-old about Democrats… shows I watched at the time. been an ardent Nancy have a happy family life Mattie Ross, ”no bigger’n a corn muffin,” Because Mr. Bush came off so well in Reagan fan ever since. (witness the tragic Nixon is a Bible-thumping financial wizard in the beginning of his book, I reacted more Through the years, I repeated this marriage). Mr. Bush comes off as extremely pigtails. Convinced that “the wicked flee positively to the later chapters than I had ex- experiment several times with other likeable when he talks about his years before when none pursueth,” she is determined to pected. Decision Points proved the double- political celebrities, including Anne The White House. track down her father’s killer and “avenge edged sword of books read by the author. Coulter, Bill O’Reilly, Al Franken, Rush The details of Mr. Bush’s emotional his blood.” The good man was shot by his The author’s voice, for so many hours, cre- Limbaugh, Glenn Beck, and Sarah Palin. reaction to 9/11 brought back the whole hor- former hired hand, Tom Chaney, who then ates a feeling of false intimacy in the reader Alas, by the time I’d finished a book by ror of the event and the fear and confusion robbed him of his money, including two — that’s why it’s such a good device for one of these authors, my opinion either of the days following. He makes clear what gold pieces from California, and escaped public personalities to read their own work. remained the same, or worsened. some Americans have forgotten — that he into Indian Territory. On the other hand, a writer’s attitude and As a vociferous opponent of the and his administration were obsessed with inconsistencies become more memorable war in Iraq, I was curious how I would the terrorist attacks and determined to never when heard on audio than seen on the page. One of the best American react to listening to President George W. allow them to happen again. Mr. Bush does If you’re a Bush supporter, you’ll enjoy novels of the last century. Bush’s autobiography (Decision Points, not apologize for taking steps that many Decision Points without qualification. My abridged, 7 hours, 6 CDs, Random disagreed with, including torture techniques, reaction — and I think it would be shared by House Audio). and his insistence is understandable in light While True Grit is a pleasure to read on other liberals who are at least open enough In the first chapter, Mr. Bush of his personal reaction to 9/11. the page, it’s awesome in an audio version to read the book — is that being involved explains the unique structure of his What still remains unconvincing, how- where you can hear the hypnotic beauty of for so many hours with Mr. Bush’s voice book. Instead of writing a comprehen- ever, is Mr. Bush blaming “bad intelligence” its language. The story is told from Mattie’s did create a certain human connection. That sive literary memoir, he chose to focus for the failure to find WMD and the subse- point of view, when she is an old woman doesn’t mean I wasn’t able to detect patterns on key decisions he’d made in his life. quent invasion of Iraq. Not good timing for looking back on the adventure of a lifetime. in his decisions — I still don’t like him. On In other words his autobiography is like Mr. Bush’s book promotion tour was the Her voice — clear, lyrical, sometimes hilari- the other hand, I don’t fall victim now to at- a bulleted Power Point presentation on release of the excellent movie, Fair Game, ous — rings with old-fashioned southern tempts by other people to demonize him. In audio. Since Mr. Bush is not by nature starring Naomi Watts as CIA Agent Victoria lushness, full of Biblical references and these divisive times, that’s no mean accom- introspective, this compartmentalized Plame. The movie clearly shows that the mythical allusions. plishment for any book. Her knight in muddy armor is booz- structure was a good idea. He could give CIA tried to convince the administration ing, one-eyed U.S. Marshal Rooster Cogburn, whom Mattie chooses because, supposedly, he has ‘true grit.” Accompany- on when unidentified pa- confines of Earth. When Johnny Comes ‘First Thrills’ continued from page 25 ing them is a young Texas Ranger named tients will die. At first the Marching Home is a truly horrifying post- LaBouef, who wants big reward money for in the once all-male enclave. There are doctor proves his diagnos- Civil War tale, written by southern Florida capturing Chaney. 11 women as authors or co-authors. tic talent and makes a lot writer Heather Graham, who has more than Like their previous film, No Country Included is Atlanta bestselling novelist of money. But then… he 100 novels to her credit. For Old Men, based on Cormac McCarthy’s Karin Slaughter. Cold, Cold Heart has to seriously worry who First Thrills was produced with the novel, the Coen Brothers’ version of True is her chilling tale of cryogenics and will next be on the gurney sponsorship of ITW, the International Grit relies heavily on its source material. marital vengeance. C.J. Lyons, whose rushing down the hospital Thriller Writers association which was Almost every line of unforgettable dialogue day job is a pediatric ER doctor, is hallway. founded in 2005. If you’re interested in in the film comes directly from the pen of a rising star in the medical thriller The Thief, by novel- thrillers, you’ll appreciate the group’s infor- Charles Portis. field. In Scutwork she reveals the ist/screenwriter/professor mative website: www.thrillerwriters.org. The audio version of the book (Record- employment challenges of body snatch- Gregg Hurwitz has the most memorable ed Books, 2006, 6-1/2 hours) is a wondrous ers working in a hospital morgue. voice. It’s told by a mentally challenged boy entertainment, narrated flawlessly by author Another story that might make you who steals things — and in a heart-warming Donna Tartt (The Secret History, 2004), queasy about going to the hospital is twist ending makes the police very happy. Rapid River Book Editor who also contributes an informative essay at The Dead Club, by Dr. Michael Palmer Most of the yarns are contemporary, Cauley Bennett is an the end. If you haven’t read True Grit yet, and his son Daniel James Palmer. A with a few distinctive exceptions. In Stephen Asheville writer. You can now is a time to do so, and enhance your en- greedy general practitioner joins a Coonts’ Savage Planet, a deep sea salvage reach her by e-mailing joyment of it with its terrific film adaptation. doctors-only betting club that gambles allows an extraterrestrial pilot to escape the [email protected]

26 January 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE artful living

Buddhist Ethics lectualized). This “awakened” life is BY BILL WALZ called the life of bodhicitta, (awakened heart or consciousness) and is the path “The practice of Zen “Love and compassion of the Bodhisattva (an awakened being). This is the foundation of Bud- To be awakened, to be a dhist compassion. To quote the is forgetting the self are necessities, not luxuries. Bodhisattva, is to live within the Dalai Lama, it is to “realize in the act of uniting Without them humanity experience of the interconnect- that we are all human beings, with Life.” cannot survive.” edness and interdependence that even those who would be our underpins all of life, and to fully enemies, who are just like ~ Roshi Koun Yamada ~ The Dalai Lama realize interconnectedness and you and me, seeking freedom (1907-1989) interdependence is also to see from suffering.” And with Karma, the principle of cause this realization, ulti- and effect, that determines mately one is led to the our unfolding experience Path of the Bodhi- thics is at the heart of Buddhism ~ It is to release ego as our identity, and re- of the world. sattva, in a sense , a because the issue of human suffering store it to its appropriate balanced place and When a person contract and commit- is the starting point of Buddhism. A role as a mental faculty only, and to realize lives in realization of the ment for compassion- young prince, Siddhartha Gautama, the truth of our existence as the awareness principles of Karma, in- ate living that says: left his sheltered life in northern In- within which impermanent and conditional terconnectedness and I vow to save all Edia in the 5th Century BCE, deeply disheart- form arises, all within one interconnected interdependence that sentient beings. ened by the amount of suffering he saw in and interdependent Universe, sharing our underpin existence, I vow to over- the world, determined to realize the nature condition with all sentient Beings. To real- this will naturally come delusion. and the origin of human suffering and how ize that happiness, or more accurately, well also give rise to an ethi- to find the path to salvation from it. being, is our inherent nature, not reliant on cal sense of view and conduct. This ethical I vow to deepen understanding of The Path He first became an ascetic, rejecting ev- external conditions. perspective is codified in Buddhism as the to the cessation of suffering. erything that was worldly, and mastered the Five Precepts, deliberately vowed to as one’s I vow to attain Awakening into the truth of most profound dimensions of meditation, intention and meditation, and practiced to existence. but in a severely weakened physical state It is important to be the best of one’s ability by those who take on from the deprivations of self-starvation, he neither mired in social the Buddhist lifestyle, and these are, in their In effect, we are our brothers’ keeper. realized that rejection of Life was not the most elemental expression: commitments to The quality of my existence is inextricable path, rather, it was better to live a balanced convention nor isolated in abstain from killing, stealing, sexual miscon- from the quality of all beings’ existence. This life, a life of neither material opulence nor hermitage and asceticism. duct, lying and intoxication. then is Buddhist ethics. It is not a system deprivation. He realized it was important to In a broader, and more psychologi- of laws, rules or commandments from an be neither mired in social convention nor cal expression, the precepts are to abstain outside authority. With this teaching, Buddhist ethics is It is presented as a system of realiza- isolated in hermitage and asceticism, rather born. The fourth Truth is also taught with from willful physical harm to others, willful to live a life of engaged, aware, enlightened, exploitation and material harm to others, tions available to any person who is deter- the inclusion of what is known as “The mined, just as was Siddhartha Gautama, compassionate community. This became Noble Eight-fold Path.” This is essentially willful exploitation that arises out of misuse known as “The Middle Way.” of sexual, romantic or seductive behavior, to understand and overcome the suffering a description of what an enlightened life that humans experience and bring into the Determined to discover the nature of is like, leading to a profoundly ethical life, willful exploitation through misleading and and transcendence from suffering, he sat false action or language, and to be free of ad- world. It is available to any person because it one that realizes our own inherent well is inherent in our own deepest human and in what was reputed to be forty-nine days being and its connection to the well-being dictive behaviors that lead to an unconscious of deep meditation, at the end of which he or unawakened life. universal nature, and it can be realized when of others. a person, as did Siddhartha, stops living out had seen into the nature of existence and These eight qualities are: “right under- realized complete enlightenment. He be- their conventional life and meditates on the standing, right thought, right speech, right human condition. came known as “The Buddha, The Awak- action, right livelihood, right effort, right The quality of my ened One.” He arose from his meditation mindfulness, and right concentration.” The existence is inextricable and began to teach what became known as Continued on page 28 “right” in the Eightfold Path is not about from the quality of all “The Four Noble Truths” concerning the commandments issued from an external- nature of and the path to salvation from ized deity or authority, but realizations and beings’ existence. human suffering. qualities that naturally arise within a human With a modern psychological interpre- being who is “awakened.”. tation, The Four Noble Truths are: The Buddha was quite explicit that This last precept is not only about ~ To be Human is to experience a unique he was not bringing forth a new religious chemical addictions, but all behaviors, and subjective form of suffering. understanding, and there is nothing in his beliefs and conditioning that lead to an ego- teaching that was metaphysical or theologi- centric life, that which is the source of the ~ The cause of this suffering is attachment other four affronts to the dignity, worth and to ego with its sense of separateness for cal. His was not a divinely inspired revela- tion, but the realization of truths that are right to freedom from suffering in others identity and all its insatiable cravings that and ourselves. seek to alleviate the ego’s insecurity and inherent to all human beings; that within us all is the capacity for a perfect life, free from It is also inherent with the realization experience of insufficiency through grasping of the connectedness and interdependence after a solid and lasting identity in posses- suffering, realizing ourelves as a balanced, aware, wise and compassionate expression of with all Beings and the realization of the sions and personal significance, to attribute universality of the Four Noble Truths that happiness and unhappiness to circumstances the Universe. As the Dalai Lama is known to teach: “These are not religious subjects. a sense of kinship with all Beings arises. outside of oneself that one tries to manipu- There develops an identification with their late toward their advantage. They are about basic human good qualities and values.” suffering, and a deep understanding of its ~ There is a path that liberates us from Enlightnment, then, is any moment cause as delusional egoic perspective and suffering that this reality is felt and realized (not intel- conditioning.

Vol. 14, No. 5 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — January 2011 27 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE healthy lifestyles

New Ideas in Cancer Research BY MAX HAMMONDS, MD

he American Institute for 2. ITCs and other antioxidant com- 3. Some people have microbes that Cancer Research recently pounds found in cruciferous vegetables increase energy extraction from food, sponsored their annual affect a gene, Nrf2, which turns “on” increasing weight and increasing can- conference: “food, Nutrition, other genes that inhibit inflammation cer risk (seven kinds of cancer related Physical Activity, and the and lowers the effect of carcinogens, to obesity). Lean people and obese PreventionT of Cancer.” While research especially in the early developmental people have different microbiomes. papers are not the most popular read- stages of cancer. Can a change in foods eaten change ing even for health information, here is 3. Sulphoraphane turns off the telom- the microbiome from obese type to a summary of the AICR Fall Newslet- erase protein that extends the telomere lean type? Probably, but it’s not known ter, edited for lighter reading. ends of the cancer cell chromosomes, for sure at this time. Age is the number one risk factor causing the cells to stop growing and 4. Certain individuals and certain for cancer. self-destruct. cultural groups have microbiomes that 1. Whatever makes you age should be About three pounds of microbes more consistently produce chemicals modified, offset, or stopped in order to live in the human gut – the microbi- that inhibit inflammation and decrease decrease your cancer risk. ome. These microbes make vitamins, cancer risk. Asians more consis- 2. As you age, become even more break down toxins, and produce anti- tently produce anti-cancer chemicals aware of life style modifications. It is inflammatory chemicals. Our micro- (especially against breast and prostate Enjoy Great Savings, Service and Benefits … never too late to lower your risk of biome starts forming at birth and is cancer) from soy than do Caucasians. with the cancer. affected by our mother’s diet and our Is that a genetic, cultural, or dietary ef- AARP Auto & Home Insurance Program cultural dietary patterns. fect? It is unknown at this time. from The Hartford. 3. The disease processes of aging – heart disease, hypertension, inflam- 1. Changes in diet change the amount Conclusion Call The Hartford Toll-Free Today mation, type II diabetes, inactivity, of microbiome. Patients with inflam- Although the effect of diet and to Request Your FREE Quote: weight gain, poorer nutritional choices matory bowel disease, linked to in- nutrition on the body is complex, the – ALL contribute to increased cancer creased cancer risk, have 25% less total habit patterns for diet are simple: eat 1-877-547-1373 CODE: 471103 risk and decreased recovery rates from microbiome than others. widely from the four food groups, Monday-Friday, 7AM-11PM Eastern Time cancer. Controlling these processes including fruits and vegetables, em- Saturday & Sunday, 8AM-6PM Eastern Time 2. Various food patterns shift the lowers cancer risk. phasizing a primarily plant based-diet, Most AARP® members qualify for an immediate phone quote. microbiome make-up. Consuming Please have your policy handy. Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, probiotics can improve digestion and maintaining ideal body weight. “We Brussel sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, immune function. Atkins-style diets are fearfully and wonderfully made.” kale) contain numerous anti-cancer (high in protein, low in carbohy- compounds. drate) decrease the anti-inflammatory FREE Calculator/Clock! Take our savings challenge! See how much we can save 1. Sulphoraphane, one of the iso- chemicals made by the microbiome, you over your current auto insurance, and you’ll receive this increasing cancer risk. Meat protein calculator/clock … just for requesting a quote. thiocyanates (ITCs are one group of THE ART OF LOVE: THE diets increase inflammatory chemicals; The AARP Automobile and Homeowners Insurance Program is underwritten by Hartford Fire Insurance Company and its affiliates, phytochemicals), slows the growth of Hartford Plaza, Hartford, CT 06155. CA License # 5152. In Washington, the Program is underwritten by Hartford Casualty soy protein diets decrease inflamma- CRAFT OF RELATIONSHIP Insurance Company. In Texas, The Program is underwritten by Southern County Mutual Insurance Company through Hartford cancer cells and promotes self-destruc- Fire General Agency. Hartford Fire Insurance Company and its affiliates are not financially responsible for insurance products underwritten and issued by Southern County Mutual Insurance Company. AARP and AARP Financial Inc. receive from The Hartford tory chemicals. The Art payments for AARP’s license of its intellectual property for use by The Hartford and for services rendered in connection with the tion of cancer cells. Program. Amounts paid by The Hartford for this license are used for the general purposes of the Association and its members. of Love, AARP membership is required for Program eligibility in most states. Applicants are individually underwritten and some may not qualify. Specific features, credits and discounts may vary and may not be available in all states in accordance with state filings and applicable law. The Program is currently unavailable in Massachusetts, Canada and U.S. Territories or Possessions. All first time The Craft of responders receive the free gift. Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery. The free gift offer is not available in Georgia, but residents may still request a quote. Homeowners product is not available in all areas, including the state of Florida. Relationship: ‘Buddhist Ethics’ cont’d from page 27 a Practical Bill Walz teaches Guide for Roshi Yamada’s predecessor, meditation and Creating Roshi Yasutani, taught that to awaken mindfulness at the Loving into the truth of existence through UNCA and public Relationships deep meditation, will bring the realiza- forums, and is a We Want, tion that “It is imperative to abandon private-practice written by Bud Harris, Ph.d. and the idea of a ‘myself’ standing in oppo- meditation teacher Massimilla Harris, Ph.d. sition to ‘others.’” This then will inevi- and life-coach for This new book presents the tably result in, not some rigid religious individuals in mindfulness, personal profound principles that form a growth and consciousness. moralistic code of conduct, but a fluid, loving relationship in an easily ac- natural expression of, as Yamada said, He holds a weekly meditation class, cessible manner. Using a decep- “forgetting the self in the act of uniting Mondays, 7 p.m., at the Friends tively simple approach, it will help with Life.” This is the Buddhist path Meeting House, 227 Edgewood. He people shift their attitudes and to salvation from suffering for us all. will hold a Winter Satsang, “The provide them with skills to create Stop asking, “what’s in it for Bodhisattva Path,” a time for true- a loving, long-lasting partnership. me?” Rather, live showing up in life, self exploration, discussion and With many years of experi- moment-to-moment, asking, “what’s meditation, at the Friends Meeting ence working with couples, Bud House, Saturday, January 22, from needed of me, that I may be an expres- and Massimilla Harris share vital 2-5 p.m. Both by donation. sion of the celebration and honoring of information, lessons, and insights. the community of Life?” This is how Information on classes, talks, we awaken, and how we can contrib- personal growth and healing IF YOU GO: January 23 at 3 p.m. ute to the creation of an awakened, instruction, or phone consultations Malaprop’s Bookstore/Café, 55 Haywood Street, downtown enlightened human society. Choose at (828) 258-3241, e-mail at Asheville. Call (828) 254-6734, or the Path of the Bodhisattva. [email protected]. Visit www. billwalz.com. visit www.malaprops.com.

28 January 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE youth culture JOSEPH RATHBONE Lego® Construction Contest RECOMMENDS he Haywood County Public 5-18 and children can enter as indi- Library will hold its first ever viduals or as a team. “We’re trying Lego® construction contest to have some relation to books and BY JOSEPH RATHBONE, AGE 12 on Saturday, January 29, reading, so for our first contest we’re T 2011, beginning at 9 a.m. asking kids to design a character, This month several things cool have in the downstairs auditorium of the vehicle or scene from their favorite come out, like new Lego® sets and games. So, with out fur- Waynesville branch. book or movie,” said Dennis. “That ther ado I will get on with the review. First I want to say that Youth Services Librarian Carole leaves a lot of room for creativity as a Xbox Live is 100% completely worth the fifty dollars for the Dennis had the idea for a Lego con- character can include a real or imag- There is still a need for volun- year of gold membership. You also get a FREE one month test partly based on her own chil- ined person or animal, and a vehicle teers to serve as judges and Carole membership just for signing up. Anyway with a gold mem- dren’s interest in the popular building could be anything from a bicycle to a Dennis is actively seeking donations bership for Xbox Live you can get free demo downloads and, block toys, and partly from reading space ship.” for prizes from area businesses. of course, you can play against people all around the world. about other libraries holding Lego Dennis encouraged participants “We’ve had a good response so far Now as far as Lego sets go, some really cool new sets competitions. Another consideration to plan ahead what they would make from several businesses offering have come out, such as the Mandalorian Battle Pack, was to have something for kids to do for the contest, as none of the building incentives for all participants, but the Clone Battle Pack, the V-Wing after the Christmas holidays during bricks can be assembled before the I would like to have some special Fighter, the Jedi Ambassador the winter days when other activities contest. “The only way that I could gifts for the first, second and third Shuttle, The Battle Of Naboo, and might be limited. make sure that the kids were doing place winners in each of our five age the Bounty Hunter Gunship. As “There’s sometimes a letdown all the work themselves was to have categories,” Dennis stated. Parents, for the games, Call of Duty: after the holidays and kids have been them do all the work here during the teachers and community leaders are Black Ops, and Star looking forward to Christmas so contest. We’ll give everyone two hours encouraged to call Ms. Dennis at Wars The Force intensely all year, and then it’s over. to build their entry here in the audito- (828) 356-2511 to volunteer as judges Unleashed 2 I’m hoping this will help extend the rium and then we’ll break for lunch. or timekeepers. are still at the fun of the holidays a bit longer,” said The judges will make their decisions Winners of the Lego Extravagan- top of my list. Dennis. and we’ll have the winners announced za Contest will also have the option Well I guess that’s it so I’ll The library’s Lego Extravaganza by mid-afternoon,” Dennis explained. of leaving their creations on display in the library’s downstairs display see you next month. Lego’s V-Wing Fighter Contest will require pre-registra- tion due to the limited amount of case beginning Monday, January 31 space available for construction and through mid-February: “If they can display in the library’s auditorium. stand being without their Legos that WHAT TO DO WITH THE KIDS? “According to my best estimate, we’ll long!” laughed Dennis. only have display space available Children who have made Lego They’re home, you’re home. What now? Asheville’s for 30 projects,” explained Dennis. constructions at home and are un- Health Adventure has a few ideas to help you cope with the Registration forms are available in able to participate in the contest, can winter doldrums. the Children’s department of the contact Ms. Dennis at (828) 356-2511 Waynesville branch of the Haywood or [email protected] if they Preschool Play Date County Library. would like to loan their creations for Thursday, January 6, 2011 Rules for the contest will be display in January. It’s all about the little ones! Join us for interactive fun posted on the library’s website (www. just for preschoolers led by museum facilitators. Your pre- haywoodlibrary.org). The contest is schooler will have a blast in this special program! open to children between the ages of LEGO® EXTRAVAGANZA CONTEST RULES Super Science Saturday 1. Age groups are ages 5-6, ages 7-8, 6. Completed projects must fit within ages 9-10, ages 11-12, and ages 13-18. a 20" x 24" space and be no more than Saturday, January 8, 2011 Participants may register as individu- 36" in height. Experiment with science during Super Science als, or as a team. Teams will be as- Saturdays! Featuring hands-on activities led by our 7. Winners will be selected based on: signed to the age bracket of the oldest Creativity, Oral Presentation, Design museum facilitators, these programs are sure to be participant. fun for all ages! Strength/Integrity, and Degree of 2. You MUST register in advance. Difficulty for age. IF YOU GO: The Health Adventure, Pack Place, 2 Space for this event is limited. 8. Prizes will be given to 1st, 2nd, and South Pack Square in Asheville. For specific activity 3. Each contestant must bring their 3rd place winners and photos will be descriptions or for updated information, please visit own LEGO’s. All LEGO’s are taken of winners www.thehealthadventure.org or call (828) 254-6373. allowed. Nothing can be pre- and their designs. assembled. Entire project is to Stop in the Chil- be constructed of only LEGO’s. dren’s Department No string, rubber bands, tape, of the Haywood Drawing by 13-year-old Cara glue, etc. will be allowed. Levy. Cara loves drawing and County Public Li- tries her best to draw anime/ 4. Contestants will have 2 hours brary or call Carole manga, a complex Japanese to complete their project. Dennis at (828) art form. She is also really 5. Projects must be a 356-2511 to register. into music. Cara wants to be character(s), vehicle(s) or a Registration ends an artist or be in a band when scene from a book or movie. Partici- Wednesday, January 19, 2011. she grows up, but she’s still not pants should be prepared to give a LEGO® is a trademark of the LEGO Group sure. She is an 8th grader at short description of their project to Evergreen Community Charter School in Asheville. of companies which does not sponsor, the judges, a mini oral presentation. authorize or endorse this contest.

Vol. 14, No. 5 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — January 2011 29 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE what to do guide ™

Sunday, January 2 Asheville Community Chamber Music Concert Dulcimer Workshop www.EuroContempArt.net Theatre Events There will be a performance by a 33- piece chamber orchestra playing a con- January 6-9 Original 19th and 20th century European paintings. Sunday, January 9 cert of Strauss waltzes and polkas, “An The sixth annual Mountain Dulci- Play Reading for Pleasure at 2:30 Afternoon in Vienna.” The ensemble mer Winter Weekend, sponsored p.m. 35below lobby. They will will be directed by Stephen Klein. This by Western Carolina University, at 7:30 p.m. at the Thomas Wolfe be reading a The Devil’s Disciple gala concert will open the 15th season will be held at the Terrace Hotel Auditorium. Individual tickets range by George Bernard Shaw. All are of concerts at St. Matthias Church. at the Lake Junaluska Conference from $20-$60 and can be purchased by welcome to join this group as they There will be ballroom dancers as well. and Retreat Center. calling the Asheville Bravo Concerts read aloud a play. Concert begins at 3 p.m. at St. Matth- Longtime music educators Elaine office at (828) 225-5887, visiting www. ias Church in downtown Asheville. and Larry Conger will host this ticketmaster.com, or in person at the Tuesday, January 11 A free-will offering will be taken for year’s event, which includes Civic Center Box Office. Students Volunteer Orientation at 6:30 the restoration of the beautiful and classes in mountain dulcimer receive half-price tickets for all Bravo p.m. Come and learn about the historic church. St. Matthias’ Church taught by Anne Lough, Dave Haas concerts. many different ways to volunteer is over 100 years old and is on the and Joe Collins; bowed dulcimer at ACT. national historic register. The church with Ken Bloom; and – new this January 21 is located in Asheville just off South year – hammered dulcimer with & 22 Lough and Ruth Smith. Thursday, January 27 Charlotte Street at Max Street on the Pilobolus back-to-back performances. Piran- Listen to This: Sports Stories in hill across from the Asheville Public Instruction also will be offered Dance dello’s Six Characters in Search of an Performance at 7:30 p.m. Hosted Works Building (1 Dundee St.). in waltzes for dulcimer, Native Company Author takes the stage at 8 p.m. on by Tom Chalmers in 35below. American flute music, fast Celtic World-re- Friday, February 4. Shakespeare’s A Join Asheville’s number one Tuesday, January 11 tunes, hymns and more. Midsummer Night’s Dream will be comedian as he hosts true stories Beginning Bluegrass Classes nowned Register for the event by going to Pilobolus presented on Saturday, February 5 at 8 about sports in honor of the Super A new series of evening beginner blue- p.m. Performances at Diana Wortham Bowl told by local comedians, dulcimer.wcu.edu. Tuition for dance com- grass music classes will be starting at playing participants is $149 and pany brings Theatre at Pack Place in downtown actors and people just like you. the Log Cabin Cooking & Music Cen- Asheville. Tickets available by phoning Tickets $10. includes all activities. A nonpartic- its highly ter in Asheville, NC. These first-timer ipant rate of $40 also is available, unusual and (828) 257-4530 or visit www.dwthe- classes are for the total novice wanting imagina- atre.com. Full details on all ACT which includes attendance at jams, Photo: John Kane to learn bluegrass banjo, clawhammer nightly events and Sunday morn- tive dance performances, auditions, events, May 12-15 and education opportunities at: banjo, fiddle and mandolin. ing singing. to Asheville. Diana Wortham Theatre HART New York Theatre Trip www.ashevilletheatre.org, or Reservations for accommoda- at Pack Place, 8 p.m. Tickets: Regular call (828) 254-2939. tions should be made separately $45; Seniors $43; Students $40; Stu- The 19th annual Haywood Arts Re- through the Terrace Hotel at dent Rush day-of-the-show (with valid gional trip to Broadway is scheduled 1-800-222-4930. Some meals are ID) $10. Tickets/Info: (828) 257-4530 for May 12 through 15. Each year included with accommodations. or online at www.dwtheatre.com. HART takes a group to see the newest hits, which, in the past have included How to place an event/ For more information, contact Saturday, January 22 some of New York’s hottest tickets. classified listing with Bobby Hensley of WCU’s Divi- Winter Satsang The group is lead by HART Executive sion of Educational Outreach at Director, Steve Lloyd, but most of the Rapid River Art Magazine [email protected] or phone (828) The Bodhisattva Path, 2:00-5pm - An afternoon of meditation and personal time is unstructured. Any “free” event open to the public 227-7397. Wayne Erbsen. Photo: Tim Barnwell consciousness development discussion This year’s trip will depart Greenville can be listed at no charge up to 30 will be held by UNCA meditation and Spartanburg Airport on Thursday words. For all other events there is a Classes will be held in a vintage log consciousness teacher and conscious- morning and return Sunday evening. $9.95 charge up to 30 words and 10 cabin at 111 Bell Road in the Haw information please contact us at (828) 338-0042. Visit our website: www. ness columnist Bill Walz at the Friends Travelers must arrange their own cents for each additional word. 160 Creek section of east Asheville, off Meeting House, 227 Edgewood, Ashe- transportation to and from the airport. word limit per event. Tunnel Road. Teaching the classes will MysticHeartUniverse.com. Email us at [email protected]. ville. The session will be led off with The group stays at the Hotel Edison, Sponsored listings (shown in be Wayne Erbsen, well-known for his gentle yoga warm-up and centering just one block from Times Square. boxes) can be purchased for $12 ability to teach anyone to play a musi- with Kirsten Walz, 2-2:30. Bring your Saturday, January 15 The cost is $1250 per person, based on per column inch. cal instrument. Wayne is the author of questions regarding personal, psycho- double occupancy and includes; round 28 music instruction books and host of Time For Three logical and spiritual development and Deadline is the 19th of each trip airfare, three nights hotel, transfers “Country Roots,” a popular traditional evolution. E-mail them in advance month. Payment must be made Another family-friendly offering from to and from the airport in New York, music radio program on Asheville’s to [email protected]. Contact at prior to printing. Asheville Bravo Concerts. The appeal and tickets to the two featured Broad- public radio station, WCQS. 258-3241 or e-mail. More at www. Email Beth Gossett at: of the trio spans across the genera- way shows. To reserve a spot a $500 billwalz.com [email protected] For more information about classes, tions. Their respect for the Classical deposit is required by March 1, with Or mail to: 85 N. Main St, Canton, registration, or instruments contact the repertoire and precise technique are Sunday, January 23 the balance due by April 1. Checks NC 28716. Call (828) 646-0071 to Log Cabin Cooking & Music Center: matched by the boundless youthful should be made payable to HART, PO place ad over the phone. (828) 299-7031, banjo@nativeground. curiosity with which they bend rules Winter Concert Box 1024, Waynesville, NC 28786. com, www.nativeground.com and integrate different musical styles – Disclaimer – into their program. Concert begins Black Mountain Youth Chorale, a Native Ground Books & Music, 109 group of singers from grades 4-8 Due to the overwhelming number of Bell Road, Asheville. (828) 299-7031, under the direction of Aline Carillon. local event submissions we get for our www.nativeground.com “What to Do Guide” each month, we Concert begins at 3 p.m. at the Black can no longer accept entries that do not Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W. PAINTERS WANTED specifically follow our publication’s Wednesday, January 19 State Street. Admission is a suggested format. Non-paid event listings must Calling all Mystics! donation at the door of $5, or $15 per Looking for painters to open family. (828) 669-0930, or visit www. a co-op art gallery in River be 30 words or less and both paid and We invite you to a Free Teleconference blackmountainarts.org. non-paid listings must provide infor- Meditation from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. EST. Arts District or Downtown mation in the following format: date, “To be anointed by Spirit, baptized by Asheville. Send email to: time, brief description of what your Friday & Saturday, February 4 & 5 the Light, and absorbed in Love, one [email protected] event is and any contact information. A Midsummer Night’s Dream Any entries not following this format becomes the Mystic Christ.” Telecon- with your website or images will not be considered for publication. ference Information: (641) 715-3630, The Aquila Theatre Company, of artwork. access code 410389#. For more directed by Peter Meineck, presents

JANUARY EVENTS ~ ANNOUNCEMENTS ~ CLASSIFIEDS

30 January 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE what to do guide ™

Dance is the New Floyd Kemp Opening Reception Donna the Buffalo Visual Art Friday, January 7 Saturday, January 29 Saturday, January 8 The Asheville Gallery of Art’s featured artist for January will be Rootsy folk-zydeco-rock band Donna the Buffalo An installation of multiple video Floyd Kemp. An opening reception for the artist will be held is back in the area and will be performing at The pieces on the subject of dance and from 5 to 8 p.m. The public is cordially invited. The exhibit, Orange Peel. For more than 20 years Donna the movement created by Cilla Vee “Still-life Studies”, will feature a group of acrylic paintings pre- Buffalo has Life Arts director Claire Elizabeth senting favorite plants and objects in the style of the artist. performed Barratt in collaboration with The show will be on display through Sunday, January 30, 2011. feel good, in- numerous artists from a variety of The gallery is located at 16 College Street in downtown Ashe- fectious music disciplines. Daffodils & Camillias by Floyd Kemp ville. Hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. that often moves listen- For more information, call (828) 251-5796 or visit www.ashevillegallery-of-art.com ers physically and spiritually. Donna the Buffalo’s eclectic and Best in Show by Phil Juliano often socially conscious mu- sic has it’s base in traditional old-time mountain mu- sic and is infused with elements of Cajun/ zydeco, Photo: Matt Jamie rock, folk, reggae, and country. The group’s core The videos are played simultane- are vocalists Tara Nevins, who plays fiddle, guitar, ously and continuously. Each accordion, and scrubboard, and guitarist Jeb Puryear. piece is created specifically for Keyboardist Dave McCracken, bassist Kyle Spark, camera and is a visual art piece, and drummer Vic Stafford complete the ensemble. not documentation of a dance The Roy Jay Band opens for the evening with gritty performance. and bluesy grooves. Doors open at 8 p.m., for this Opening reception Saturday, 18+ show. $18 adv/ $20 at the door. The Orange January 8 at 7 p.m. On display Peel, 101 Biltmore Ave. in Asheville. Phone (828) through January 31, 2011. Flood by Amy Downs 225-5851 or visit www.theorangepeel.net. Gallery – Phil Mechanic Studios, Callie & Cats in Asheville’s River Arts District. A Likely Yarn, located in Abingdon, VA, offers classes for everyone from beginners to experienced knitters this January 20 - May 5, 2011 January. For more details on classes or products visit our Spring Kindermusik Classes website at www.alikelyyarn.com. To register for classes, For children ages 1 to 7. Help develop call (276) 628-2143. lasting learning skills. We’ll show you how music can help your little one manage the day’s schedule and build a strong body and mind. Classes Dr. Etta: Family Specialist take place at The Music Village in Friday, February 11 at 8 p.m. Waynesville, NC. Enroll online today. Visit www.themusicvillage-nc.com for Music City Artists present a new one-woman show more information. from Award Winning comedian Etta May. Dr. Etta Corgi Tales by Phil Hawkins (Family Special- ist) is a hilarious and heartfelt look Stella Adler Studio of Acting at the breakdown of the American Adult Core Program Family. It’s com- January 31 - April 20 mon sense for the Mondays and Wednesdays, common man. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., $550 The family of the February 5 - April 23 21st century is Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., $440 deathly ill, and Dr. Etta has the cure! Teen Core Program (Age 15-18) This two-act play, staged as a seminar, makes you January 30 - April 17 laugh one minute and cry the next. Sundays, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., $440 Dragin by Michael Cole The star of the sell-out tour, “Southern Fried Advanced Adult Program Chicks,” Etta May is a regular on CMT and winner of the prestigious Female Comic of the Year award. Audition required: Etta May is a seasoned performer with a huge fan January 10 - January 31 base and a reputation that adds up to an incredible Mondays, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., $100 following. Classes held in the 35below space Comedian Etta May at the Diana Wortham Theatre at Asheville Community Theatre. in Asheville. This performance is considered PG-13. Contact stellaadlerasheville@ For more information or to purchase tickets call gmail.com with any questions or the Box Office at (828) 257-4530, or visit www. to schedule an appointment. dwtheatre.com.

CLASSES ~ LECTURES ~ ARTS & CRAFTS ~ READINGS

Vol. 14, No. 5 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — January 2011 31 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE joe’s brew notes

M.A.L.T. Takes Over Highland Brewing Out and About n Saturday, November 20, ten BY JOE ZINICH Our local breweries daring “MALTsters” (Mountain are serving a number of Ale and Lager Tasters) staged an delicious beers this Holiday season. Al- early morning raid (they were in- on mutually sup- though I haven’t had the opportunity vited) on the Highland Brewery. portive projects. For to taste all of them (yet), I can recom- OThey planned a “Brew In” (brew together) example, MALT helps mend you make it a point to sample with Highland’s equipment (use Highland’s organize the Highland the Russian imperial stout at both the three-barrel pilot system to produce their Cup while Highland Wedge (with raspberries) and Green base wort) while taking brewmaster John provides their facilities Man (brewed to style). Lyda hostage (he volunteered Highland’s for the MALT spon- Also give Green Man’s rum- barrel- equipment and his expertise). sored Blue Ridge Brew aged imperial stout a try. Stop by the Actually, MALT (Asheville’s home Off competition. So, French Broad for their Belgian Brown brew club) and the Highland Brewing when Steve Morgan and Anvil Porter. Craggie’s Dubbeli- Company have worked together for years of MALT approached cious is a delight, and Highland’s Cold John about a Mountain is always a must-try. “Brew In”, he readily agreed. A “Brew In” is a group of BREW NEWS enthusiastic home MALT Members with John Lyda in front of the 3-Barrel Brewing brewers who agree System. Rear (L-R): John Lyda, Joel McSwain, George Keel, Sean to meet and brew Maloney. Front (L-R): David Maida, Norm Penn, Karen McSwain, In January, French Broad Brewing together. In this Andy Brouwer, Mark Hebbard, Steve Morgan, Alex Buerckholtz. will introduce their Abbey style ale case, the “MALT- Crouching, Joseph Jones. and a Belgian style stout. Both beers sters” brought their own brewing equip- will have a limited draft-only release. ment to Highland. Steve helped design A “Brew In” is a group Larry Bell, a craft-brew pioneer and founder of Bell’s Brewing (formerly the base wort (a liquid which contains of enthusiastic home brewers sugars and enzymes from malted grain) Kalamazoo Brewing in Michigan), MALT Members Adding Grain to Make the Wort. who agree to meet and Thirsty Monk produced on Highland’s three-barrel pi- visits the on Wednesday, lot system. The malts for the wort were brew together. January 19. Bell’s beer will “take over” chosen to give each of the ten brewers all 16 upstairs tap lines. maximum flexibility and freedom to So, as you might expect, ten talented On January 22, one of Asheville's make almost any style ale. brewers with ten active imaginations and premier beer events, the Winter Warm- Each MALT brewer received a preferences brewed a variety of beer styles. er Beer Festival, will be held down- portion of the wort and with very little These included a Belgian strong dark (10%), town at the Asheville Civic Center fuss they could have chosen to brew a spiced holiday beer (~6%), an English IPA (Exhibition Hall level). The party light amber ale (~7%) or to continue focused on hop aroma (~5%), an American begins at 3 p.m. and ends at 7 p.m., the boil, concentrate the sugars, and Red session beer (~5%), an imperial IPA plenty of time to enjoy samples from brew a high alcohol beer. The brewers made with blackberry honey (~10%), and 20 to 25 beer vendors, and Italian food could also choose to dilute the wort for (lots) more. Plans are to meet again, sample provided by Fiore’s restaurant. Music a lower alcohol beer or add dark malts the results, and present a “peoples choice” by Leigh Glass Band (blues, country for a darker beer, spices for holiday award to the top 3 most popular brews. A blues), and Brushfire Stank Grass beers, or Belgian yeast for Belgian style meeting that makes it to the top of my must- (from bluegrass to rock). A Brew In is a shared experience. beers, etc. attend list. Ticket sales are limited to keep The purpose of a “Brew In” is for lines short and allow plenty of room MALT members to enjoy the camaraderie to relax and socialize. Buy your tick- of a shared experience, the opportunity to ets early, the Winer Warmer has sold brew with other club members, and to share out every year since its start four and discuss brewing techniques. A “Brew years ago. For more details and to In” at Highland brewery adds much more purchase tickets go to www.brews- to the experience. The use of Highland’s cruise.com/beerfest. Tickets are $38 three-barrel system serves as an introduc- per person and include a com- tion to commercial brewing and, for some, memorative tasting glass and food. a convenient introduction to whole-grain A portion of the proceeds support brewing. Imagine, as a home brewer, the Riverlink with the funds focused on chance to brew in the same space that the local Asheville projects. iconic Highland ales are made and to social- ize and discuss brewing with Highland’s esteemed brewmaster John Lyda. And, the capper, Highland brews were available to anyone who worked up a thirst. For eight years, Joe Zinich The “raid” was a huge success. The ob- has been taking a self- jective was met. The “MALTsters” brewed guided, high-intensity tour together, learned together, and had fun of the Asheville beer scene. Contact him at: jzinich@ together with their friends at Highland. bellsouth.net.

32 January 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE restaurants & wine Random Thoughts About Wine Drinking in January

t’s difficult to write about wine for Better With Age? BY MICHAEL PARKER January. The writing is due extra-early, – Here We Go Again. and while the writer is consumed with thoughts about Champagne and spark- I was getting acquainted with a bottle ing wines for the 31st, gifts that will be of Alsatian Pinot Blanc, Hugel “Cuvée les January 2011 Icheaper for the giver but viewed as more Amours” 2006, when I remarked at how Events at the Weinhaus valuable by the receiver on the 25th, and good it was at four years (the same case for what Port wines will finish off the holiday the 2005 when it was four years old as well). Friday, January 21 dinners, January is so distant. A young lady who was by chance also in on The Grovewood Café, with chef/owner It is the month of witnessing our this tasting said to me, in a tone that indi- Larry Waldrop, will join the Weinhaus friends getting cranky on the South Beach cated she did not know who she was talking in presenting a five course meal paired Diet and pursuing self-delusions. Money to, “Wine gets better with age, Michael.” with suitable wines, a post holiday feast spent on quickly-forgotten gym member- to fight the mid-winter blues. The time ships and accompanying clothes may as well Grr. Arg. is 7 p.m. The cost is $55 all inclusive. Please call the Weinhaus for reservations buy some wine. Furthermore, December’s Experience has taught me that white at (828) 254-6453. weather was harsh, way too early, and incon- wines, in general, need to be consumed sistent with the break we thought we were before they turn four years old. Pinot Blanc Friday, January 28 going to get after last year. Let’s stock up is not something I ever think of aging. There Dumping liquor into a glass of Friday night flights at the Weinhaus will against seasonal depression with juice that are plenty of exceptions, like products from hot water and adding a cinnamon present a tasting of wines for the New will cheer us up or make us feel warm. the best vineyard, from the best winemakers. stick and a wedge of lemon does Year. The price is $10 for a tasting and It’s also hard to know what is available Still, white wines have a predictable lifespan, not a hot toddy make. light hors d’ouvres. Time is 5:30-7:30 in January. Wine shops stocked up big- and when we praise a white for beating the p.m. Held at the Weinhaus. time for the holiday season. What surpluses odds, we are also complementing the wine- ally knows how to make a good hot toddy. The Weinhaus, 86 Patton Avenue remain? What’s going on sale? What are the maker. (Truthfully, we are also showing off There are many ways to make a good one, Asheville, NC (828) 254-6453 sudden, post-holiday lifestyle changes of the what we know.) but there is a big mistake I still occasionally readers? While on this topic, let this be an annual witness. It makes me want to speak out as if reminder to drink the wine gifts you re- I were witnessing a crime. A Friend You Can ceived in December. Drink, not store away. Let me make this clear: dumping liquor Unless you are a collector and received wine The idea is this: the spices are benefi- Text On into a glass of hot water and adding a cin- picked out for you specifically to stock in cial to the body. They boost the immune A former housemate, who evidently namon stick and a wedge of lemon does not your cellar, you most likely got wine that is system. While is seems potentially undoing learned nothing about wine when he had a hot toddy make. If you are going to do this ready to drink. to blend something like brandy, rum, or the chance, sent me a text message at 2:30 in right, and earn the money you ask for, you My rubber-stamp rules for wine ageing: Bourbon with the Vitamin C of lemon and the morning. He wanted a “recommended have some simple work to do ahead of time. Whites need to be enjoyed young and fresh. the immunity enhancement of spices, it can Champagne shopping list.” 2:30 a.m.? He And it is simple. I call it brown water. They typically start turning as they approach in fact be a healthy drink. must have been in New Orleans. I obliged: Whole cloves, allspice, star anise (if a desired the age of four years. Reds vary and need flavor) and cinnamon sticks must be boiled. more time, but bolder reds start getting Carnival Season, Asheville Real Champagne, Your hot water must be brown and smell good at four years, like old vine zinfandel, Mardi Gras, Krewes from the and taste like the spices. It’s not too unlike and others may need more. That, my dear brewing a tea. A quart can be made in the Asheville Mardi Gras is in planning Champagne region reader, is what Google is for. of France: microwave oven in six minutes. A sim- stages for 2011. The wine drinkers’ krewe, mering pot can be kept on the stove. The the Grand Krewe, Dionysiaque (Grand Cru, Duval-Leroy (fam- Hot Toddy, spices can be re-boiled, and cinnamon chips get it?), will be announcing its own events ily owned, the only or Hot Watery Drink? are usually as good as sticks (and cheaper), in January via Facebook and in the February woman winemaker considering the other accompanying spices column here. As Krewe Kaptain, I welcome in Champagne) An open request to all bartenders: very rarely among us is a bartender who re- and ingredients. you to join the Krewe and participate. Pol Roger (Winston Winston Churchhill Churchill’s favorite) Avoid: Moet & Chandon (good, but it’s just too common) Cava, From Spain: Great values & styles Segura Viudas, Reserva Heredad (good wine, great package) FREE Wine Tastings on Saturdays Sparkling wine from USA: from 2 to 5 p.m. Roederer Estate, Anderson Valley Tasting wine is not only fun, but it presents a chance to learn about L’Ermitage, Roederer Estate wine and what it is about a particular wine that you like, or don't Anything from Iron Horse Vineyards, like. You can sip while you shop. Find some new favorites — try Green Valley (frequently served at the it before you buy it. We will usually have a few whites and a few White House) reds open, with the occassional guest speaker. Please stop by! Pink sparkling wines are often better www.theAshevilleWineGuy.com — more body, more flavor God, it feels good to be able to text Wine Retail ~ Tastings ~ Wine Classes 555 Merrimon Ave. that in the middle of the night! Great wines for any occasion and budget. (828) 254-6500

Vol. 14, No. 5 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — January 2011 33 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE fine art news

ASHEVILLE ART UNC Asheville’s Holly Iglesias Awarded Prestigious MUSEUM NEWS NEA Literature Fellowship Discussion Bound olly Iglesias, poet, translator and of ordinary people to bring upcoming writing project, Monthly Reading Group lecturer in UNC Asheville’s Mas- the 1904 St. Louis World’s Iglesias will again focus ter of Liberal Arts Program, has Fair back to life, and with on the world as it was in Tuesday, January 11 from 3-5 p.m. been awarded a prestigious Cre- it, insight into what it must the mid-1950s, recalling The Bird Artist: a Novel by ative Writing Fellowship from the have felt like to experience through prose poems, the Howard Norman HNational Endowment for the Arts (NEA). the dawn of grand, modern culture and mindset of Pop into our monthly book discus- Iglesias is the only North Carolinian technology. One example is the Cold War era. sion where we read and discuss books and one of only 42 poets chosen nationally “New Moon,” in which Igle- Iglesias is also the that relate to artwork in our galler- to receive the $25,000 fellowship for 2011. sias took on the inner voice author of the poetry ies. Moderated by a member of the The NEA received 1,063 eligible applica- of a pre-teen: “…Twelve, collection “Angles of Ap- Museum’s staff or a volunteer, we tions for the fellowship, which alternates I am twelve, and I will act proach” (White Pine exchange ideas and learn about books, annually between poetry and prose. the lady. Take ice cream in Press, 2010), the critical art and each other! Bring your copy In accepting the NEA award, Igle- a dish and touch door knobs Poet, translator, and lecturer study “Boxing Inside the of the book. Each sias described the fellowship as “a kiss, an only with my hanky. I will Holly Iglesias. Box: Women’s Prose Po- book is avail- embrace, a dare… and the mandate to keep ride the Wheel, once, and no etry” (Quale Press, 2004), able for purchase writing.” She says she will use the funding screaming… They say that night is brighter and the chapbooks “Hands on Saint,” and through the Mu- to support and expand the work she is best than day at the Fair. That women swoon at “Good Long Enough.” Her work has also seum Shop as well known for, prose poems based on historical the sights. But I shall keep my eyes open…” appeared in Prairie Schooner, The Prose as area bookstores. events. “Because the work is its own reward, Of mixed heritage that she describes Poem, Arts & Letters, Barrow Street, Mar- January’s read the NEA fellowship is icing (thick butter as “German, Irish, Midwestern, Yankee gie, Crab Orchard Review, Massachusetts is The Bird Artist cream) on a three-layer chocolate cake,” says and Cuban,” Iglesias is bilingual and has Review and Spoon River Poetry Review. by Howard Nor- Iglesias. “The poems have been graced upon translated the works of Cuban poet Cari- In 2009, Iglesias received the North man. Norman’s me; they come and go. My job continues dad Atencio. Iglesias spent her younger Carolina Arts Council fellowship in poet- haunting novel, to be staying awake and opening the door adult years among Miami’s Cuban exiles, ry. She is also the recipient of fellowships set in turn-of-the-century New- when they arrive.” and plans to revisit that community and from the Massachusetts Cultural Coun- foundland, is about a young man who Iglesias’ prose poetry collection “Sou- explore its sense of nostalgia through her cil and the Edward Albee Foundation. confesses to the murder of the village venirs of a Shrunken World” (Kore Press, next writing project. Entitled “Walking to She earned a Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary lighthouse keeper and whose gift 2008), won the publisher’s First Book Cuba,” Iglesias says it will consider “the Humanities from Florida State University for drawing birds becomes both his Award. In “Souvenirs,” Iglesias focused on impossibility of return to an imaginary and a master’s degree in History from the physical and his emotional release. A small details and assumed the perspectives island, the Cuba before Castro.” In another University of Miami. 1994 National Book Award finalist, Norman employs a spare writing style that ably describes the characters and the landscape. Suggestions for future books are Founding Curator and Director most welcome! For information, con- tact Nancy Sokolove, Adult Programs Martin DeWitt to Retire Manager at (828) 253-3227, ext. 120 artin DeWitt, founding direc- or [email protected]. BY JILL INGRAM tor and curator of the Fine Art Film Museum at Western Carolina the 10,000-square-foot Fine Art Mu- Screening University, has announced his retirement. seum, which comprises a main gallery and First Works M“I think the timing is right for changes,” three auxiliary spaces. He was involved Saturday and said DeWitt, whose career spans more than in the facility’s construction, curated the Sunday, January 30 years in museum administration. He will museum’s permanent collection (which grew from about 400 objects to more than 8 and 9 at 2:00 end his work at the museum in December. Martin DeWitt in the museum’s main gallery. p.m. each day “Martin has been an outstanding 1,200), drafted the museum’s policies and procedures, and scheduled the museum’s A diverse group founding director of the Fine Art Museum,” ternationally known artists alike. DeWitt and inaugural exhibitions. of now well- said Robert Kehrberg, dean of WCU’s Col- Drury recently oversaw the installation of Denise Drury, curatorial special- known film directors such as Martin lege of Fine and Performing Arts. Kehrberg a one-year outdoor sculpture exhibit in the ist at the museum, has been named the Scorsese, Spike Lee and Ron Howard praised DeWitt for his strength in defining a FAPAC courtyard that features five artists museum’s interim director beginning in discuss what it was like to direct their vision for the museum and cultivating it as from the Southeast. January. Drury spent four years, including first film and what inspires them to a cultural destination. He also credited De- Colleagues say DeWitt has a particular two as executive director, with 621 Gallery, continue, despite changes in the film Witt with strengthening the university’s ties talent for discussing complex concepts in a nonprofit, contemporary visual art space in industry. Held in conjunction with with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. plain language and for gallery presentation Tallahassee, Fla. “Ms. Drury brings experi- the exhibition The Director’s Cut I: DeWitt joined the university in 2003, that draws visitors into exhibits, a valuable ence, professionalism and forward-looking 1995 - 2010. with the museum opening in 2005 as part of skill in a university setting. DeWitt teaches WCU’s Fine and Performing Arts Center, vision to this position,” Kehrberg said. A an exhibition practicum class where students These events are free with Museum a $30 million, 122,000-square-foot facility. national search is planned to permanently learn how museums and galleries function. Membership or Admission. With a mission of cultural enrichment for fill the director’s position by July 1, 2012. Asheville Art Museum the region, FAPAC also houses a 1,000-seat Since the museum opened, DeWitt has performance hall and classrooms, studios overseen approximately 100 exhibitions, For more information about WCU’s Fine 2 South Pack Square, Asheville, NC Art Museum, contact Denise Drury at (828) and offices for the School of Art and Design. ranging from historical and collaborative Visit www.ashevilleart.org 227-3591 or [email protected], or go online to As founding director, DeWitt launched projects to work by WCU students and in- fineartmuseum.wcu.edu.

34 January 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS fine art Resolutions… Um, What Are Those? OK, MAYBE JUST START WITH A T.D.L. (“TO DO LIST”)

firmly resolve to: re-watch BY GREG VINEYARD all 10 years of Stargate SG-1! T.D.L.’s are pos- Sort 100 years sibly off-strategy. ofI family photos! You don’t want Learn to cook, your Parallel and pronounce, Universe You to “quinoa.” Actually, I be working on this don’t make resolu- when you’re not, tions, as I believe right? In addi- any day of the year tion to helping is the right time one set and meet to work on one’s goals, planning artistic T.D.L. also spreads-out However, critical devel- society does run on opmental tasks certain traditions, across manageable like returning gifts timeframes. Try and pretending to Photo collage by Greg Vineyard tackling one busi- not like fruitcake, ness need every so January is of course an ideal time for Monday morning. At the end of a year, you some businessy-plan-ish-type notes. And will have 52 Things off your shoulders! And it’s much more productive than that second Asheville is chock-full of experts in plan- watching of Starship Troopers with the ning, marketing and design for those who commentary on. seek extra help. On with some suggested Resolutatory To Do List Categoricalness for artists! 1) Make To Do List. I know it’s totally Resolutatory To Do List alternate-reality to write this list ON itself, Categoricalness for Artists! but the number one thing people forget to do is… MAKE THE LIST. So remind your- self on a sticky note, and then put it on your 5) The Nitty-Gritty. Also known as bathroom mirror at eye level. “Everything Else”, this is that way more extensive listing-out, including notations 2) Filing and Orderliness. Keep all your about picking up cat food on the way home. I.P.’s (“Important Papers”) in one place. And dropping-off a post-holiday fruit cake You know that drawer or shelf with all somewhere even though you really want to appliance instructions, even really old ones keep it at home to snack on later. for coffee makers you no longer possess? It’s like that. All together so you can find 6) Down Time. Make sure your List in- the information you need when you need cludes a category related to recharging your it. Some suggested file types: License, Con- creative batteries. tracts, Lease, Insurance, Taxes, Receipts, 7) Put all your appliance instructions in one Marketing, Advertising, Artist Statements drawer. You know they’re everywhere. Try and Really Great Headshots. it, it’s an S.V. (“Small Victory”), but it has a 3) Calendarization. Scheduling is very high feel-good factor. important. Being old-fashioned, I still Keep in mind that T.D.L.’s need to be use a yearly notebook-style calendar, but flexible, perused daily and revised fre- computers are certainly super handy, too. I quently; evaluate and adjust it as your year mark down not only events and opportuni- unfolds. To Do or Not To Do, that is the ties (like art competitions), but also early question, and it’s entirely up to you. reminders for future stuff. If you remind yourself that Leaf Season is on the way, and you know it takes X weeks to make enough inventory, make a note to start prepping in Greg Vineyard is an artist June. Or else suddenly it’s October (again!) and creative consultant and you’re thinking: “Darn it! I forgot to in Asheville’s River Arts make the Leafy Things! Again!” District. He and his Ceramics 4) Business Plan. Even writing down one’s for Contemplation & internal vision can be the beginning of a Connectivity can be found at Constance Williams Gallery, solid strategy. It’s easy to over-think this and (the middle building in CURVE), 9 Riverside decide it’s too hard, thus leaving business Drive in Asheville. Open every day 11 a.m. planning off the T.D.L. But then future to 4 p.m. Visit www.CURVEstudiosNC.com.

Vol. 14, No. 5 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — January 2011 35

prints color RAPID RIVER ARTS fine art

UNC Asheville’s Blowers Gallery Hosts Exhibition by Asheville Artist Marsha Balbier NC Asheville’s Blowers Gallery will present “The Essence of BY NANCY HAYES Asheville,” an exhibit of glass and encaustic artwork by local artist Marsha Bal- Ubier, January 5-30. The exhibition includes works in fused and shaped glass as well as encaustic paintings, which are created using heated beeswax. The encaustic technique dates back to ancient Egypt, when it was used to create mummy portraits.

The Essence of Asheville

Balbier’s work is featured in the permanent collection of the Banff Encaustic piece by Marsha Balbier School of Fine Arts at the Univer- sity of Alberta. She has studied fine arts and design in various schools, includ- University of Northern Colorado, Endi- ing the Banff School of Fine Arts, the cott College and the Philadelphia College of Textiles & Science.

IF Blowers Gallery, located in UNC Asheville’s Ramsey YOU Library, is free and open to GO the public, and is usually open 7 days a week. For gallery hours and more information, call (828) 251-6436, or visit http://bullpup.lib.unca. edu/library/exhibits/blowers/exhibits.html.

Advertise with Rapid River Magazine (828) 646-0071 www.rapidrivermagazine.com

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36 January 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE fine art Twv Qu is t Lc
Arst L r Ss ocal artist Laura Sims took the time For me talent has BY DENNIS RAY For more information call (828) 281- to answer a few questions about her more to do with 4044, write to [email protected] functional and elegant silk creations. practice and enthu- or visit www.vandykejewelry.com. two books, have work Rapid River: Tell us a little about siasm. The more around the world, enjoy your silk wall hangings. I understand the ma- L teaching and am still terials the more I can Laura Sims: When people see the dye learning and growing. explore the potential paintings (wall hangings) at shows or in Van RR: How do you go and limits of a pro- Dyke’s Jewelry and Fine Craft Gallery they about creating your silk cess and the better I are struck by the dimensional quality of the hangings? am able to become imagery, the way the silk moves in the air in my media. currents and the beautiful way each piece is LS: A dye painting mounted. The mount that my husband and begins with a walk to RR: Could you tell I designed has an Asian or Arts and Crafts collect objects and take us about some of feel that is simple, functional and elegant. photographs of my sur- your work? It allows the dye painting to be dis- roundings. From there LS: It is more about played to its best advantage and to hang I work on ideas for the the power of the away from the wall so that it can move free- composition before any work of the hand, ly. As for the bold interpretations of nature, materials are prepared. whether it is mine customers are drawn to the double imagery A thick dye paste that or someone else’s. on sheer silk creating the illusion of depth. includes a discharging Star Burst, silk charmeuse scarf. Someone has to buy What I am learning from my clients is that agent to remove color Photo: Mary Vogel the work in order for they purchase what they want immediately, and a type of dye called me to keep mak- or stay in touch until the time is right, or are vat dye to add color is mixed. Each con- ing it… a contract if you will. My part of the watching and waiting for the one (or ones) tainer of paste has a different dye color in contract is to strive to make work that is the that speaks to them and says it so that I can use the paste best I have to offer at that stage of my growth. “this is mine.” as paint. The customer’s part is to choose work for One of the tricky bits RR: Please give us a brief bio, their self or as a gift for another that enhances is that in paste form many where you are from and how and sustains some part of them. of the dyes do not show you started in this field. RR: What inspires you to keep going and their true color, so I have to how do you keep yourself motivated? LS: I grew up in south cen- remember which one I put tral Alabama near Montgom- where as I am painting. The LS: Deadlines are one of the best motivators ery. As an only child I spent paste is applied to solid black I have whether for an order, a show or an many hours entertaining silk organza. The silk has to exhibition. On the hard to get moving days myself making things. After then be carefully steamed I will do anything just to keep me in the teaching in my hometown in a special box where the studio. There seems to be grunt work with for a short time I moved to chemical magic happens; any process and mine is an endless need to the Asheville area and found the black dye is dissolved wash towels, sheets, tools and containers for a job with the Folk Art Cen- and the new dye color is dyeing, painting and marbling. ter. It was there that I met simultaneously deposited in Oddly enough the routine work allows professional craftspeople and its place. After putting the me to do the necessary brain preparation formed a desire to be part of Poke Berry Time, silk through a special wash- before beginning to “make” something. the craft community. silk organza dye painting. ing process the true colors Sometimes the creative process is as painful After a two-year detour Photo: Robert Batey emerge on the silk and the and laborious as birthing a baby and oc- working with the Interna- image is complete. casionally it is as effortless as riding a wave. tional YMCA in Rosario, The ‘waves’ are worth the wait. RR: You also create wearable Argentina I re-connected This coming year I am challenging my- art. What all do you create? with the Southern Highland self with new goals and deadlines by sign- Craft Guild, as well as be- LS: Luscious silk scarves are ing up for a non-credited Special Studies in ing hired as a staff member individually dyed and print- the Fiber Department of Haywood Com- of John C. Campbell Folk ed multiple times to achieve munity College with Amy Putansu, head School in Brasstown, NC. a unique combination of vi- of the fiber program. Amy will be working During my time at the Folk brant color and bold organic with me to offer guidance and resources… School I was introduced to designs. The charmeuse silk very exciting! scarves come in varied sizes an amazing hydro-printing RR: How will you describe your style? process called marbling. and are not only beautiful I quit my job a year later to wear, but can be used as a LS: Original, organic, bold and colorful are to marble full time and was lovely table runner or a small descriptions that fit both my silk dye paint- thrilled to become a member wall hanging. I also offer ings and my marbled silks. I work hard to of the Southern Highland unique silk ties for men in a produce fresh interpretations by blending Craft Guild. Twenty-four variety of colors and classic what I know from my individual experiences years later I am happy to say marbled designs. and skills with any process I explore. that my business is thriving. Autumn Sumac, RR: When did you first dis- RR: What is your approach to design? I have authored/co-authored silk organza dye painting. Photo: Robert Batey cover your creative talents? ‘Laura sims’ continued on page 38

Vol. 14, No. 5 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — January 2011 37

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Discounts may not be used in conjunction with other special of- producing for the beginner. My fers, coupons or discounts. Discount applies to item cost only and does not include discounts on shipping and but was also attracted to the histori- first instructional book is due out handling or taxes. Discount only applies to items over $29. Valid now through 12/31/2011. Subject to Rules of Use. Coupons VOID if purchased, sold or bartered for cash. cal nature of corn shuck dolls. They in Autumn, 2011. linked me to my paternal heritage Leslie Owens, Natural brown jacket with lagoon alpaca collar deeply rooted in Nice Threads and cuffs created by Leslie Owens. East Tennessee’s Appalachia. I I grew up in a intervening, I knew I had found my have been mak- fiber-centric family — my true calling as a feltmaker. ing corn shuck grandmother was a seamstress The real discovery was that mak- dolls ever since for Hart Shaffner Marx and ing felted garments was more like that day. my mother knitted and sewed sculpture that any other technique. My method for her children. My first Starting with the loose wool fibers, I for making the fiber craft was making octo- can form the fabric and the garment dolls is based puses from dime-store yarns, at the same time, and my weaving li- on the same Created by long-time corn- but I graduated into embroi- shuck artist Anne Freels. ability — handling the cloth to excess method that has dery, crochet, macrame, and — is precisely the technique that been practiced for decades. I begin by sewing while in college. creates the garment. Each garment is dampening the shucks with water to After 25 years as a corporate shaped by my hands, coaxed into three make them pliable, then rolling and graphics designer, I came back to fiber dimensions and finished with a few tying the shucks into various figures when I went to Haywood Community carefully chosen closures. of different sizes and poses. Except for College in 2000 to learn weaving and Miraculous, a warm, light gar- thread, and wire inside the arms to al- dyeing. That began my journey into the ment, formed only by my hands. low for different poses, the blank doll is myriad techniques that comprise the made entirely out of corn shucks. fiber arts. Once I have tied the shucks into a I found right away that I loved IF Works by Anne Freels blank doll, I trim it and allow the doll wool and loved to handle it, learning and Leslie Owens on to dry before adding the embellish- spinning just for the joy of feeling it YOU display through January ments. These can include dried flowers glide through my fingers. I was an ex- GO 25, 2011. Folk Art and herbs, shells, seed pods, feathers, tremely slow weaver, since I just had to Center, Milepost 382 twigs and found or purchased objects stop every few minutes to feel the new on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Help Protect Your Home and Family along with other natural materials. cloth I was making. When I discovered Asheville, NC. Phone (828) 298-7928 A home is burglarized every 9.1 seconds, donít let yours be the next! Wool, flax, or dried corn silk is used for felting, a technique that consists of just or visit www.southernhighlandguild. the hair. These finishing touches allow hands and fiber, with no equipment org for more information. FREE Home Security System! $850 Value! At no cost to you for parts and activation with only a $99 installation fee ‘Laura Sims’ continued from page 37 decorative or ceremonial objects are IF YOU GO: Laura Sims will teach and the purchase of alarm monitoring services. Terms & Conditions below. reflections of their surroundings and a 1-day course, Introduction to 24/7 PROTECTION only LS: By reviewing my past work I have inspire me. Intuitive Marbling on Silk and $35.99/mo. identified elements that please me Cotton, on February 12 at the Get up to a 20% DISCOUNT most. Not surprising I find that it RR: Describe yourself in five words. Cloth Fiber Workshop. For more on home owner’s insurance! affects the way I look at my natural sur- LS: You’ve got to be kidding. information please go to www. FREE wireless remote Available two-way voice that allows roundings, where I spend my time in ClothFiberWorkshop.com. control with PANIC BUTTON! you to instantly communicate with an ADT Security Specialist. a museum and what books attract me. RR: Do you do commission work? Call Now and Help Protect Your Family! I use all of these resources as tools to LS: Van Dykes Jewelry and Fine Craft 1-888-791-9189 develop designs. on Biltmore Avenue exhibits my dye Van Dyke Jewelry Mon-Fri 8am - 11pm - Sat 9am- 8pm - Sun 10am - 6pm EST RR: Any influences or anyone you look paintings. Recently I have completed and Fine Craft $99.00 Customer Installation Charge. 36-Month Monitoring Agreement required at $35.99 per month ($1,295.64). Form of payment must be by credit four commissions and am happy to card or electronic charge to your checking or savings account. Offer applies to homeowners only. Local permit fees may be required. Satisfactory up to when it comes to designing? credit history required. Certain restrictions may apply. Offer valid for new ADT Authorized Dealer customers only and not on purchases from ADT 29 Biltmore Ave. Security Services, Inc. Other rate plans available. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Licenses: AL-10-1104, AZ-ROC217517, CA-ACO6320, discuss options with interior designers CT-ELC.0193944-L5, DE-07-212, FL-EC13003427, EC13003401, GA-LVA205395, IA-AC-0036, ID-39131, IL-127.001042, IN-City of Indianapolis: LS: I enjoy visiting exhibitions of arti- Downtown Asheville 93294, KY-City of Louisville: 483, LA-F1082, MA-1355C, MD-107-1375, Baltimore County: 1375, Calvert County: ABL00625, Caroline County: 1157, and homeowners. 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Additional images Contractor Registration Number: PA22999, RI-3428, SC-BAC5630, TN-C1164, C1520, TX-B13734, UT-6422596-6501, VA-115120, VT-ES-2382, and Pacific Island peoples. The pat- WA-602588694/PROTEYH934RS, WI-City of Milwaukee: 0001697, WV-042433, WY-LV-G-21499. For full list of licenses visit our website and information can be found on my Saturday 10-2 p.m. www.protectyourhome.com. Protect Your Home – 3750 Priority Way South Dr., Ste 200, Indianapolis, IN 46240. "Crime data taken from tern and imagery used on functional, http://ovc.ncjrs.gove/ncvrw2008/pdf/crime_clock_eng.pdf" website www.IndigoStoneStudio.com.

38 January 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 5

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Abby Lee is a painter who strives to express through her work the various ideas that form daily in her brain. She is also known to have wildly vivid and compelling dreams that she then portrays as a story on canvas with her paint and brush Ceramic sculpture by Michelle Sumares upon waking. Michelle Sumares is a figurative, ceramic sculptor who works in her home studio in IF Abby Lee: paintings Asheville. The mystical, sensual Michelle Sumares: and spiritual nature of the femi- YOU sculpture. On display nine tends to define her work, GO through January 30, although aspects of child arche- 2011. types speak their voice as well. Woolworth Walk, 25 Haywood Come meet the artists and Street in Asheville, NC. Phone (828) enjoy the opening reception 254-9234. Gallery Hours: Monday (828) 646-0071 on Friday, January 7 from 4 to through Saturday 11 to 6 p.m., www.rapidrivermagazine.com Painting by Abby Lee 6 p.m. Sunday 11 to 5 p.m.

Vol. 14, No. 5 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — January 2011 39 prints color