Get Tickets Now to the Season's Best Performances
LIST ON PAGE 5
New York’s Award Winning Doug Varone and Dancers. PAGE 30
Andie MacDowell’s first interview for the movie The 5th Quarter, which will be released in March. PAGE 19
Asheville Symphony presents Valentine Delights with guest pianist Dudana Mazmanishvili. PAGE 20
Bestselling local author Sarah Addison Allen trade paperback release party. PAGE 27
Asheville Community Theatre presents the powerful rock opera Rent. PAGE 3
The Chocolate Fetish Charlie Flynn-McIver celebrates 25 years of and Scott Treadway good taste. PAGE 21 In the NC Stage production of Boeing-Boeing. PAGE 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS performance Jewelry: Q. Evon Q. Jewelry: 2011 Winter/Spring Concerts Sponsored by the Asheville Chamber Music Series
he Asheville Chamber Music Se- BY PAMELA MILLER www.CRAfTGuIlD.ORG ries, celebrating its 58th season, will be presenting the following T concerts: MARCH 4 – AUDUBON QUARTET Betthoven: Op. 18, No. 2 Serebrier: Fantasia for String Quartet Wolf: “Italian Serenade” Schickele: Quartet No. 1, “American Dreams” The Audubon Quartet has won acclaim throughout the world for Allanstand Craft Shop more than 30 years. Founded in 1974, at the Folk Art Center the ensemble quickly achieved inter- national recognition by winning top Milepost 382 Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville, NC prizes in three major competitions in Audubon Quartet Photo: Richard Mallory Allnutt Open Daily 9am-5pm | 828-298-7928 their first four years together. In 1981, the Quartet made a ground- As Quartet-in-Residence at the Univer- Guild Crafts breaking three-week tour of Mainland sity of Texas School of Music, the ensemble 930 Tunnel Road/Hwy 70, Asheville, NC China, the first American quartet ever to members teach private students and coach Open Mon.-Sat: 10am-6pm visit the People’s Republic of China. “They chamber music groups. 828-298-7903 listen to one another and adjust instinctively Discover the Best of Regional Craft Regional of Best the Discover The Southern Highland Craft Guild is authorized to provide services on the Blue Ridge Parkway under the authority of a cooperative to produce a sound of strikingly beautiful agreement with the National Park Service, Department of the Interior. luminescent quality that invariably serves For more information please call (828) 259-3626 or go to www.main.nc.us/ the music with grace, sophistication and ashevillechambermusic.com vibrancy. (The New York Times).
IF The concerts take place at the Unitarian Universalist YOU Church of Asheville, 1 Edwin GO Place at Charlotte Street, at 8 p.m. Tickets are available for $35 at the door on a first come, first served basis. Students under 25 are admitted free of charge (space permitting). Miro Quartet To pre-order tickets please call (828) 259- 3626. On Thursday preceding each concert MARCH 25 – MIRO QUARTET a “Pre-Concert Talk” will be held at the Schubert: “Quartetsatz” Reuter Center at UNCA. The program will Brahms: Quartet No. 1 begin at 4:15 p.m. and is free and open to Philip Glass: Quartet No. 5 the public. Founded in 1995 at the Oberlin Conservatory, the Miro were winners of the Fischoff, Banff and Coleman competi- tions, as well as the prestigious Naumburg Love is a canvas furnished Chamber Music Award and the Cleveland by Nature and embroidered Quartet Award. It was the first chamber ensemble ever to be awarded the Avery by imagination. Fisher Career Grant. ~ Voltaire
The English writer Tell me how many beads there are Thomas Lovell Beddoes In a silver chain (1803-1849) is one Of evening rain, of the great figures in Unravelled from the tumbling main, 19th century poetry and And threading the eye of a yellow star: drama. He is renowned - So many times do I love again. for his interest in death and the macabre. ~ Thomas Lovell Beddoes
2 February 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 6 RAPID RIVER 24th stage Annual
The Powerful 2010-2011 Season
Rock Opera Audubon Quartet RENT at ACT March 4, 2011 SALE Beethoven: Op. 18, No. 2 BY JANNA HOEKEMA Serebrier: Fantasia for String Quartet February 1st - 14th sheville Community Theatre will Wolf: "Italian Serenade" present the musical, Rent, Febru- Schickele: Quartet No. 1, ary 18 through March 6. Rent was "American Dreams" 2011 the winner of 4 awards at the 1996 Tony Awards including the award Miro Quartet forA best musical. Rent also won the Pulitzer March 25, 2011 Prize for Drama in 1996. Schubert: "Quartetsatz" This powerful story follows a group Brahms: Quartet No. 1 of bohemians struggling in modern day New York. Based on Puccini’s opera La Philip Glass: Quartet No. 5 Boheme, Rent tells the story of a group of impoverished young artists and musicians All concerts are on struggling to Friday’s at 8:00 pm Fine Jewelry and Design Studio survive under at the the shadow of Unitarian Universalist Church HIV/AIDS in of Asheville, 1 Edwin Place 2011 signed limited edition New York’s 14k gold cloisonné at Charlotte Street pendant with Lower East www.jewelsthatdance.com diamond Side. The art- Tickets and Information 828-259-3626 ists, Roger, ashevillechambermusic.org (AYWOOD 3T s !SHEVILLE .# s s (OURS -ON 3AT Mark, and Maureen to name a few, are seeking to create power- ful art in the form of music, film and performances. You Join the Friends of Pack Square Park. will get to hear epic songs such as “No Day Our park is a place to celebrate! The Friends of But Today” and “Seasons of Love.” This hot rock opera includes romance, death and Pack Square Park Program is a community of people who betrayal—woven together with songs that care about the park and want to enjoy it together. make this story unforgettable. Written by Jonathan Larson, the rock IT’S opera was not only based on La Boheme but also on Larson’s life and experiences. Sadly, Larson passed away just before the show opened off-Broadway and he never knew the impact his musical had on the world. Rent is for mature audiences only. ACT’s production is directed by Jeff Catanese who recently played the narra- tor in A Christmas Story and has directing YOUR experience in New York City through Attic Salt Productions. Brad Curtioff is the musi- cal director. The edgy New York fashion Join today and help support the rich variety of events you enjoy presented of the 90’s will be costume designer Rachel by Pack Square Conservancy. Your tax-deductible contribution goes to protect Gordon’s main focus. and improve the spectacular park landscape – gardens, trees, lawns, public art, and performance spaces– so they will be beautiful for years to come. Rent, ACT Mainstage. PARK! Enjoy and take pride in preserving Pack Square Park IF Book, music and lyrics by as a dynamic, artistic, and social gem in the center of YOU Jonathan Larson, directed GO by Jeff Catanese. On stage Asheville’s downtown. February 18-March 6. For more information about how to become a Friend Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., Sundays at 2:30 p.m. Tickets: $22 adults; of Pack Square Park please call us at 828-252-2300, or $19 seniors and students. Available online visit our web site at www.packsquarepark.org. at www.ashevilletheatre.org or by calling (828) 254-1320.
Vol. 14, No. 6 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — February 2011 3 ®
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4 February 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE to Asheville with love Razor-Sharp Timing Makes Boeing-Boeing a Comedy Hit
hat do you get BY AMANDA LESLIE when you mix three Great Entertainment lovely stewardesses, Asheville Chamber Music Series . . . . 2 two bachelors, and was also adapted into a 1965 film starring RENT at ACT ...... 3 a very fast Boeing Tony Curtis, but contemporary audiences W will probably know it best from a recent Vertigo Jazz Project ...... 6 jet? The hit comedy Boeing- Boeing by Marc Camoletti, Broadway revival. Asheville Choral Society ...... 8 opening February 16th at North Tickets have been selling quickly for Brevard Music Center Faculty Trio . . 8 Carolina Stage Company in this comedy, and the theatre has already Classicopia Chamber Music ...... 9 downtown Asheville. added four Saturday matinees to accom- Abigail Washburn ...... 11 Bernard is a Parisian archi- modate demand. The play will run for four Aquila Theatre Company ...... 18 tect who has arranged his love weeks, with six performances each week, Andie MacDowell ...... 19 closing March 13, 2011. life in a perfect balancing act. Asheville Symphony Orchestra . . . . 20 He only dates airline hostesses; Elizabeth Gilbert Booksigning . . . . . 27 and when one lady touches Sanctum Sully ...... 22 down in Paris, the next one Boeing-Boeing runs IF 23 is already in the air. It seems February 16 - March 13, Jonathan Richman ...... YOU Big Daddy Bluegrass Band ...... 23 like nothing could possibly go GO 2011, Wednesdays through wrong – until a visit from an old Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., and Doug Varone and Dancers ...... 30 college friend starts throwing Sundays and Saturdays at 2 Asheville Puppetry Alliance ...... 34 his carefully crafted schedule p.m. Tickets are available at www. Henderson County Arts ...... 34 out of whack. ncstage.org or (828) 239-0263. Blackbird Frame & Art ...... 36 As with all farces, the com- Tickets range from $16-$28, with a Pay When Jekyll Met Hyde ...... 38 edy in Boeing-Boeing lies in What You Can Night Wednesday, February Stella Adler Studio of Acting ...... 39 excellent timing – or mis-tim- 16. Ten dollar student rush tickets are ing, as the case may be. Luck- available at 2 p.m. the day of the show. ily, Boeing-Boeing stars Scott Charlie Flynn-McIver and Scott Treadway star in the NC Treadway and Charlie Flynn- Stage production of Boeing-Boeing. Photo: Jen Lepkowski McIver have perfected their timing over many plays together. Treadway have taken to the road together. Beginning in 2004, with The Complete And while the road between Flat Rock and Works of William Shakespeare (abridged), Asheville in North Carolina may not be as Scott and Charlie have starred in some far-flung as the road to Morocco, the aes- of NC Stage’s most popular productions, thetic distance may be nearly as great.” including Stones In His Pockets, Moonlight Scott Treadway and Charlie Flynn-Mc- and Magnolias, and True West. They also Iver are joined by Maria Buchanan, Vivian appeared in multiple productions at Flat Smith and Julia Vanderveen as Bernard’s Rock Playhouse, the state theatre of North girlfriends, and Paige Posey as Bertha, Carolina. Bernard’s caustic housekeeper. In 2010 they were even recognized Boeing-Boeing was written by French nationally, with a profile in American playwright Marc Camoletti, and made its Theatre Magazine. UNC-Asheville profes- English-language debut in London’s West sor Scott Walters wrote about their unique End in 1962, translated by Beverley Cross comic chemistry: “Like Bob Hope and Bing and Francis Evans. The play proved so Crosby, Charlie Flynn-McIver and Scott popular it ran in London for seven years. It
Donations Sought for Amphitheatre Renovation
fter nearly four decades of bringing bring the current performance space back free classic theatre to Asheville, the to life, with new materials for safety, aes- A Montford Park Players’ Hazel Rob- thetics and durability. There will also be inson Amphitheatre is falling down. changes allowing for improved sightlines, Montford’s free outdoor plays have lighting and acoustics. become an Asheville tradition. People Kickstarter.com allows the Montford bring their families along with picnics, Park Players to fund projects by collect- pets and lawn chairs to watch the classics ing online pledges. Donors may pledge as performed in front of a pleasant mountain much or as little as they choose. Dona- hillside on summer nights in Asheville. tions are tax-deductible. Now, the beloved amphitheatre is showing its age. Beams are rotting away You can help by donating to the project at and a complete renovation has become http://kck.st/hMVrpE or by searching for necessary. The project funding will help “Montford Park Players” at Kickstarter.com.
Vol. 14, No. 6 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — February 2011 5 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE noteworthy
Vertigo Jazz Project to Host Hometown Throwdown WITH THE MANTRAS AND SPECIAL GUESTS KUNG FU DYNAMITE
even Country and Bluegrass. petizing guitar bravado. Always maintaining a distinctively “Cross the Divide” begins as a me- BY SAM KATZ recognizable element of Jazz, VJP takes thodical guitar workout, boasting crystalline, their varied experience and creates original constantly changing guitar that invokes the funk and jazz, the band has taken care- Vertigo Jazz Project compositions of their easily recogniz- spirit of the Grateful Dead’s “China Cat Sun- fully crafted song structure and combined able form of music; paying homage to flower,” then shifts gears as Marcus Horth it with free form improvisation striving to fter forming in early 2008, Vertigo the aforementioned delivers urgent vocals. keep the dynamics of their music fresh and Jazz Project has taken a stance styles, with heavy em- The early measures unpredictable. as one of the premier acts on phasis on the jazz, soul Bridging the divide of “Rocky Peace Blues” the Southeastern music scene. jazz and world elements. between rock, blues, are characterized by They continually captivate their Known for their bluesy slide guitar, and For more information please visit: audienceA with fresh musical ideas, deep high-energy collabora- funk and jazz. Bassist Brian Tyndall www.VertigoJazzProject.com www.TheMantras.com emotional content and rock solid grooves. tive of rock, funk, and brings the funk in the www.myspace.com/kungfudynamite Vertigo Jazz Project will be performing jam fusion that shakes your knees and rattles early going of “Magillicuddy,” a longtime fan at the Grey Eagle with Greensboro’s The your bones, The Mantras unified their musi- favorite. This epic number spans nearly eight Mantras, and Kung Fu Dynamite from cal vision in 2005 and have continued to hone minutes and features guitar pyrotechnics and Asheville, on Saturday, February 26. their sonic landscape one show at a time. thumping, vibratory bass. IF Vertigo Jazz Project, all Vertigo Jazz Project (VJP) is known The band released their third album Kung Fu Dynamite is a progressive ages show begins at 9 p.m. for their compositions and performances titled “Dharland” on April 7, 2010 and rock/funk band who formed in the spring YOU Tickets: $8 advance, $10 at the throughout the jazz idiom. But people often have been touring steadily behind its re- of 2005 and have been infusing their sound GO door. Advance tickets available ask, “Is this Jazz?” VJP has taken on the task lease ever since. The album begins on the with intense energy and power, pushing the online at www.thegreyeagle. of bridging the gap between multiple genres strength of “Five Roads,” a subtle rocker envelope by cross pollenating all genres of com. The Grey Eagle, 85 Clingman of music such as Jazz, Funk, Latin, Rock, that energetically swells and swirls around Modern American Music. Avenue, in Asheville. Phone (828) 232-5800 Jam, Avant-Garde, Classical, World and Allen’s fiery guitar, ending in a dash of ap- With their roots steeped in rock, blues, for more details.
ASHEVILLE CHORAL RESERVE YOUR TICKETS TODAY! SOCIETY $20 ADULT WITH GUEST CONDUCTOR DR. MELODIE GALLOWAY PRESENT: $10 STUDENT CALL FOR GROUP RATES
ORDER ONLINE BE HERE NOW: AT IVING COMPOSERS ashevillechoral OF L society.org RT AL A OR OR CALL EMP 828.232.2060 E T MARCH 5 2011 8PM G TH SINGIN MARCH 6 2011 4PM hitacre - robinson - CENTRAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH w barnum - s troo p - wilb erg - g jeilo - bru ACS Thanks Sunday Concert Sponsor: beck - theofanidis Weaverville Eye Associates
6 February 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS we love this place On Saturday, February 12 Nest Organics will be holding their regular Nesting Party in their store at 51 N. Lexington Ave. in downtown Asheville with local mama Mary Densmore. This RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE event is for parents, and parents-to-be, to learn about organic and non-toxic parenting, cloth Established in 1997 • Volume Fourteen, Number Six diapering, babywearing, and much more! The event is free, includes complimentary organic refreshments, and a 10% in store discount. Please RSVP by calling the store at (828) 258-1901. UNC Asheville’s Craft Studies Initiative will continue its series, “Meet the FEBRUARY 2011 2 Performance Maker: Conversations of Meaning with 2 Craftspeople,” with a presentation by www.rapidrivermagazine.com Asheville Chamber Music Series . . . Windgate Fellowship recipients Andrea Asheville Choral Society...... 8 Donnelly and Dustin Farnsworth. The Publisher/Editor: Dennis Ray Classicopia ...... 9 evening will include a lecture and reception, Managing Editor: Beth Gossett Asheville Symphony Orchestra . . . 20 beginning at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, February Marketing: Dennis Ray Doug Varone and Dancers ...... 30 23, at Owen Hall, room 302. Staff Photographer: Dennis Ray Asheville Puppetry Alliance ...... 34 Donnelly’s work in textiles has been exhibited across the United States and Turkey. Her Textile piece by Andrea Donnelly Layout & Design: Simone Bouyer upcoming exhibit, “Andrea Donnelly: Poetry Editor: Ted Olson 3 Stage Preview Mindbody,” will open in February at Artspace Gallery in Raleigh. Her work will also be Proofreader: Mary Wilson included in the 2011 Rijswijk Textile Biennial exhibit in the Netherlands. Donnelly currently RENT at ACT...... 3 lives in Virginia, where she operates a hand-woven scarf business. Accounting: Sharon Cole NC Stage – Boeing-Boeing ...... 5 Distribution: Dennis Ray Two additional “Meet the Maker” lectures will be held during the spring semester. Ann Aquila Theatre Company ...... 18 Millett-Gallant, educator and author of “The Disabled Body in Contemporary Art,” When Jekyll Met Hyde...... 38 will speak on Thursday, March 17. Millett-Gallant is a lecturer at UNC Greensboro. CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Her research analyzes the work of disabled artists and the representation of disability in Judy Ausley, Byron Belzak, visual culture. Amy Tavern and Daniel Marinelli, resident artists at Penland School of Music Crafts, will present their work on Monday, April 4. Both events will include a lecture and James Cassara, Chris Cloonan, 6 Vertigo Jazz Project...... 6 reception, and will begin at 6:30 p.m., in UNC Asheville’s Owen Hall, room 302. For more Michael Cole, Maggie Cramer, information about this series, call (828) 250-2392. Philip DeAngelo, Amy Downs, Abigail Washburn ...... 11 Sanctum Sully ...... 22 Mahsati Janan and Lisa Zahiya present the 1st Annual Asheville John Ellis, Beth Gossett, Steven R. April 15-17, 2011. 23 Bellydance Festival, Register now – earlybird Hageman, Max Hammonds, MD, Jonathan Richman...... pricing until February 15. Three days of fun including a hafla, gala Cherry Hart, Phil Hawkins, show and workshops all day Saturday and Sunday. Janna Hoekema, Leah Johanson, 10 Columns Friday, April 15: Hafla and Bellydance Party. Join us for a night Phil Juliano, Sam Katz, Chip Kaufmann, James Cassara - Music ...... 10 of socializing, open dancing and performances. Would you like to Michelle Keenan, Amanda Leslie, perform? Please call Lisa at (828) 242-7595 or email lisa@lisazahiya. Peter Loewer - Thoreau’s Garden . 12 com. Location TBD. Peter Loewer, Kitty Love, Pamela Miller, Judy Ausley - Southern Comfort. . 13 Ted Olson, Michael Parker, Joseph Saturday, April 16: Gala Show. Join us for a night of amazing Ted Olson - Poetry ...... 26 professional bellydance performances. $12, $15 at the door. Rathbone, Dennis Ray, Lindsey Rhoden, Joe Zinich - Beer ...... 24 Location TBD. John Russell, Erin Scholze, Patty Smyers, Michael Parker - Wine ...... 25 Workshops are $20/$25 at the door. All workshops will be held on Clara Sofia, Greg Vineyard, Alsace Max Hammonds, MD - Health . . 28 Carolina Lane in downtown Asheville. Instructors: Mahsati Janan, Walentine, Bill Walz, Daniel Weiser, Bill Walz - Artful Living ...... 29 Lisa Zahiya, SamiTe, Sparrow, Sara Beaman, Natalie Brown, Kaitlyn, Robert Wiley, Joe Zinich. Joseph Rathbone - Youth Culture . 34 Asharah, Reyna of the Rising Sun Tribe, Annie of Ancient Moon Bellydance. For more information please visit www.lisazahiya.com or Greg Vineyard - Fine Art ...... 35 INFO call (828) 242-7595. Rapid River Arts & Culture Magazine is a monthly publication. Address correspondence to 14 Movie Reviews [email protected] or write to: Rapid River Arts & Culture Magazine 85 N. Main St. 19 Sneak Preview Advertise with Rapid River Magazine Canton, NC 28716 Andie MacDowell Interview . . . . . 19 Phone: (828) 646-0071 (828) 646-0071 www.rapidrivermagazine.com Free web links • Free ad design • Easy monthly billing All materials contained herein are owned and 21 Asheville Shops copyrighted by Rapid River Arts & Culture The Chocolate Fetish ...... 21 Magazine and the individual contributors unless otherwise stated. Opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily correspond with the Fine Art News opinions of Rapid River Arts & Culture Magazine 31 or the advertisers found herein. The Artist Resource Center ...... 31 Vadim Bora Dies ...... 37 © Rapid River Arts & Culture Magazine, February 2011 Vol. 14 No. 6 32 What to Do Guide™ Best in Show by Phil Juliano . . . . . 33 On the Cover: Callie & Cats by Amy Downs . . . . 33 Charlie Flynn-McIver Corgi Tales by Phil Hawkins . . . . 33 and Scott Treadway Dragin by Michael Cole ...... 33 star in the NC Stage production of Boeing-Boeing. 36 Fine Art Blackbird Frame & Art ...... 36 Photo: Jen Lepkowski
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Vol. 14, No. 6 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — February 2011 7 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE performance
Asheville Choral Society Performs BY LINDSEY RHODEN
“Be Here Now” Greensboro, as well as a Masters in vocal perfor- special treat is in store for beck’s “Mass,” will include mance from Florida State Western North Carolina the Ray Lyons jazz trio. University. Her passion in audiences when The Ashe- Other musical selections music runs the gamut from ville Choral Society performs include a modern arrange- ACS guest classical to musical theatre, “Be Here Now: Singing the ment of “Ubi Caritas,” by conductor Melodie jazz, and even the avant- ATemporal Art of Living Composers,” Gjeilo, “I Am Not Yours,” Galloway garde. on Saturday, March 5 at 8 p.m. and a Stroope adaptation of a “Be Here Now: Singing Sunday, March 6 at 4 p.m. in Central poem by Sara Teasdale, and “Animal the Temporal Art of Living Compos- United Methodist Church, down- Crackers,” an Eric Whitacre light- ers” is the second concert in the Ashe- town Asheville. hearted arrangement of some of the ville Choral Society’s 34th season, wittiest of Ogden Nash’s poetry. “Good Things Come in Threes…Join Singing the Temporal Art The centerpiece is, “The Us this Season.” Each concert features Here and Now,” by Christopher of Living Composers a different guest conductor. Theofanidis, a beautiful and stir- “From Tribulation to Celebra- ring setting of poems by the 13th tion: Finding the Divine through “This concert is a celebration of century mystic, Rumi. This 2005 work Trial” will be conducted by Dr. C. spirit in the wonder and engagement for soloists, chorus and orchestra will Michael Porter, May 21 and 22 in of ancient wisdom and modern sound. feature Simone Vigilante, soprano, and Arden Presbyterian Church. All of the creators of the music are Jonathan Ross, baritone. living composers, ranging in ages from Melodie Galloway hails from 32 to 90 years old. There is much Asheville, where she serves as Assis- IF Tickets to “Be Here musical variety, with colorful sound- tant Professor, Choral Director, and Now,” as well as for the scapes that conjure up images of a Coordinator of Vocal Studies in the YOU GO 2010-2011 ACS Season, thunderous ocean, a mystic ceremony, UNCA Department of Music, as well can be purchased from a smoky jazz club, and even a Scottish as Musical Director of the Junaluska the Asheville Choral folk dance,” says Dr. Galloway, ACS’ Singers, a 16-voice professional sum- Society via its website at www. March guest conductor. mer ensemble. ashevillechoralsociety.org or by calling “I’ll Ay Call in By Yon Town,” Galloway holds a Doctoral degree (828) 232-2060. Special discounts are features duo piano, while Dave Bru- in choral conducting from UNC- available for groups of 10 or more.
Brevard Music Center Faculty Trio to Perform
he Brevard Music Center is a Symphony Orchestras. Currently, BY ROBERT WILEY gem we have in our own back he is Associate Artistic Administrator yard. Hendersonville Chamber of the Brevard Music Center and, in Music is fortunate to be able to his spare time, Concertmaster of the Trio with vocalist Sharon LaMotte on bring three of its outstanding Asheville Symphony Orchestra. May 1 and the Kontras String Quar- Tfaculty to open their 2011 season. Flutist Dilshad Posnock per- tet, winners of the Western Piedmont The trio features pianist and Bre- formed regularly with the Pittsburgh residency competition, on May 22. vard Music Center’s Artistic Director, Symphony, Ballet and Opera. Now Series tickets and $17 individual Bruce Murray with BMC’s Associate based in Brevard, NC, Ms. Posnock tickets are available at the Henderson- Artistic Administrator Jason Posnock performs with the Asheville Choral ville Visitors Center, and at the door on violin and Dilshad Posnock on flute. Society and has appeared as Guest on the day of the performance. More Bruce Murray holds a full-time, Principal Flute with the Asheville information at hendersonvillecham- year-round role at Brevard as Dean Symphony Orchestra. bermusic.org. and Artistic Administrator while main- Hendersonville Chamber Music taining an active season calls for performing career. the EastWind He has appeared Wind Quintet, IF Hendersonville with such conduc- in residence at YOU Chamber Music tors as Keith Lock- the University GO Concerts take place at hart and David of North Caro- the First Congregational Church on the corner Effron. lina-Greens- of Fifth Avenue and White Pine Violinist Jason boro on March in Hendersonville. Performances Posnock has per- 20; The NGU are on Sunday afternoons at 3 p.m. formed regularly piano quartet, Subscriptions for all five concerts are with such promi- in residence at $70. They are available by mailing nent American North Green- a check or money order payable to ensembles as ville University HFCM to Hendersonville Chamber the Philadelphia on April 17; the Brevard Music Center’s Bruce Murray, Music, P.O. Box 271 Hendersonville, and Pittsburgh with Jason and Dilshad Posnock. Bill Gerhardt Jazz NC 28793.
8 February 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE performance Classicopia Continues its Chamber Music House Concert Series PERFORMANCES IN HENDERSONVILLE AND BLACK MOUNTAIN
lassicopia, Asheville’s newest On February 6 a House Concert BY DANIEL WEISER chamber music organization will be held at the home of Daniel dedicated to chamber music Weiser, 75 Edwin Place in the Grove in intimate spaces, will pres- Park area in Asheville. There will be interview with Dick Kowal on WCQS ent a House Concert called room for about 25-30 people so seat- radio on Friday, January 28 at 2 p.m. C“Tremendous Trios” featuring the ing will be limited. The cost is $40 Classicopia is planning many passionate Mendelssohn Piano Trio per person, which includes some light more House Concerts, including a in D Minor and the autumnal Brahms refreshments and drinks. fabulous “Love Triangle” program Piano Trio in A Minor along with Classicopia will be performing featuring piano quartets by Robert shorter works by Astor Piazzolla. the same program on Friday, Janu- Schumann and Johannes Brahms plus Artistic Director and pianist ary 28 at 7 p.m. at the White Horse in a Piano Trio by Clara Schumann. Daniel Weiser will be joined by Kara Black Mountain, and again on Sun- One program will take place on Poorbaugh, Principal Violist of the day, January 30 at 4 p.m. at St. James Saturday, March 5 at 3 p.m. and other Asheville Symphony and member of Episcopal Church in Hendersonville. dates are being explored. Classicopia is the Opal String Quartet, who will do Admission for the White Horse also seeking any people in the region double duty on both violin and viola program is $12. This is a wonderfully who happen to have a grand piano in for the concert, and Franklin Keel, As- relaxed and informal music venue their home and room for 30 or so peo- sociate Principal Cellist of the Ashe- with cabaret-style seating and drinks ple to watch a concert who might be ville Symphony and also a member of available. Tickets will be available interested in hosting a future chamber the Opal String Quartet. at the door, and can be reserved by music House Concert. Classicopia be- Weiser co-founded Classico- calling (828) 669-0816 or by visiting lieves House Concerts are the perfect pia (www.classicopia.org) in New www.whitehorseblackmountain.com. way to see and hear chamber music Hampshire in 2001 with a mission of The White Horse is located at 105C and would love to have several possible making chamber music a regular and Montreat Road in Black Mountain. venues available during the year. active part of the community, and he The program at St. James is their Classicopia also presents educa- has expanded these programs into 21st annual Candlemas benefit con- tional outreach programs in schools, Western North Carolina after moving cert. Proceeds from this year’s concert including an original show called to Asheville in 2009. have been designated for local hunger “Beethoven Lives... in North Caroli- Each concert uses the finest and poverty relief and will be divided na” that is designed for grades K-6 and musicians in the region and beyond equally between Interfaith Assistance introduces them to chamber music and Weiser also talks before each piece Ministry and The Storehouse. Tickets and the life of Beethoven in a fun and to set the composer into socio-histori- are $15 and are available at the St. interactive manner. Dr. Weiser also cal context and to break down any James receptionist desk, the Hen- presents solo “Salons” on the lives of artificial barriers between performers derson County Visitor Information various composers that are a per- and the audience. Center, Hand in Hand Gallery in Flat fect way for adults to continue their Classicopia is now starting a Rock, and Diamond Rush Jewelry in musical education in a very intimate monthly House Concert series and Laurel Park Village. Any remaining home environment. Classicopia will also perform in other venues tickets will be available at the door. believes strongly in nurturing the next in the region, including Retirement The price of admission includes generation of musicians and will seek Homes such as Deerfield, bars such a catered candlelight reception in to find performance opportunities for as White Horse in Black Mountain, the parish hall following the concert. talented young people on all instru- and Churches such as St. James in Classicopia will also be performing ments in the region. Hendersonville. a preview of this program and an To become a member, or to find out about future House Concerts, contact Dr. Weiser at [email protected] or phone (828) 505-2903
IF For the House YOU Concert held on GO February 6, checks should be made out to Classicopia and sent to 75 Edwin Place, Asheville, NC 28801. You can also e-mail daniel@ classicopia.org or phone (828) 505- 2903 to make a reservation. Seats can only be confirmed once payment is received. Driving directions and parking information will be e- mailed to after your seats have been (L-R): Daniel Weiser, piano; Kara Poorbaugh, violin/viola; Franklin Keel, cello. confirmed.
Vol. 14, No. 6 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — February 2011 9 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE spinning discs
It is already February but we’re still catching up on a few select releases that arrived towards the tail end of 2010. If you haven’t yet spent that CD Reviews Christmas bonus or cashed in your gift cards, here is your chance to enrich by James Cassara your aural existence while supporting the many excellent independent music stores that help make Asheville such a groovy place to live!
Mavis Staples In the end You Are Not Alone is neither again proves herself one of this genera- You Are Not Alone gospel nor rock, but rather a captivating and tion’s most versatile, elegant, and forceful joyful reminder that the two share far more chanteuses. **** Anti Records concerns than often meets the ear. ****1/2 Even as the Bryan Ferry daughter of Pop Sta- Cassandra ples and lead vocalist Olympia of the fabled group that bears her name, Ma- Wilson Virgin Music vis Staples has never been the most forceful Silver Pony The news that of singers. Her forte has always been the EMI Bryan Ferry was not simmering reserve that smolders around the It’s ironic that only releasing his first volcanic edge. But she is unparalleled in her after a string of album of largely new material in fifteen subtlety, grit, and passion. pop oriented al- years but had also enlisted his former In short, she has both the ideal voice bums for the jazz Roxy Music alumnus Brian Eno, Andy and pedigree for blues laced gospel music, dominated Blue Note label that Cassandra McKay, and Phi Manzanera to join him for that narrow divide where the secular meets Wilson’s first release for EMI – a label with the sessions gave both hope and concern the sacred and desire joins the divine. She’s a long tradition in pop – should be the – depending on one’s own tastes – that he always been as comfortable in the rock arena singer’s most direct jazz effort in years. might abandon the seductive crooning that as the pulpit, but never more so than with But it’s improv jazz with a modern has largely marked his solo work and return her latest. twist, incorporating various touches of to the more antiseptic art school sensibili- You Are Not Alone, produced by Wilco blues, funk, and the occasional nod to ties of Roxy’s earliest records. mastermind Jeff Tweedy, who also handles Dionne Warwick styled pop, that weaves Neither seems to be the case here and, much of the instrumental chores, allows together in ways few vocalists would attempt quite surprisingly, Olympia is Ferry’s most Staples to step out a bit, tackling songs that and fewer still could accomplish. alluring album since the days of Avalon, a might not typically match her style but Sampled from a series of European lush collection of sophistication and cool clearly appeal to her sensibilities. shows, where she has long had a strong that looks and feels like a luxuriously tai- In Tweedy she has found the idea foil, following, Wilson and her fabulous band lored suit. one whose pop leanings challenge her own recast some traditional jazz standards while Ferry is in finely mannered form, while remaining sympathetic to the core of adapting modern rock tunes and seminal delivering each tune with the same languid what makes her great. Unlike some of his country blues numbers with equal and yet dynamic inflection that has become his sidebar efforts, one never gets the sense that elegant results. stock and trade, while the songs themselves this is a vanity project for Tweedy (Wilco It’s a pretty daring move to include a positively hover ever so slightly out of reach. associates Pat Sansone and Glen Kotche are song by Big Star (“Watch the Sunrise”) in Ferry’s ability to deftly shift the mood of a also on board) but rather a genuine attempt the same set as “St. James Infirmary” but in song remains his strongest suit. to reach out and expand his own repertoire. Cassandra Wilson’s world it’s the song that “Heartache by Numbers” starts as a Staples grabs hold of smart covers as matters, genre be damned. Her restrained, gorgeous exercise in funk but moves inexo- Randy Newman’s “Losing You” and Allen shimmering vocals are the anchor which rably towards a far more vaporous plane, a Toussaint’s “Last Train” with zeal, while holds everything together, and while the shift in tone that is nearly imperceptible un- Tweedy’s own tasteful guitar work coils notion of cobbling together songs from dif- til complete. “Song to the Siren”, the most around her voice like a cobra ready to strike. ferent towns on different nights (and later Roxy-like number here, is equally shrewd. When switching to the more gospel augmenting them in the studio with new Propelled by Eno’s seductive ghost in the pieces (“In Christ There Is No East or material) might suggest a lack of cohesion, machine synthesizer, it pulsates with a desire West,” “Creep Along Moses”) the results such is definitely not the case. that lurks just below the surface. are no less convincing; Staples powerfully Her version of Billie Holiday’s “Lover Such attention to craft has always been reminds us that spiritual commitment, like Come Back to Me” is as dynamic as any yet a trademark for Ferry, and while Olympia is all true love, begins and ends with the heart. recorded, while a delicate yet forceful ren- nominally not that different from his other According to reports, Tweedy wrote a dering of McCartney’s “Blackbird” is both solo efforts, the renewed attention to detail number of songs for this project but only a reverent and playful. is most welcome. In truth he’s not doing pair, including the title track, made the final Much of the credit should go to pro- anything that’s particularly new, he’s just cut. That’s a shame as it would be fascinat- ducer John Fishbach for helping Wilson doing it better than he has in years. ***1/2 ing to more fully see what imprint working both select material that best suits her voice with Staples has had on his own often overly and finding the proper musicians (the Paul Carrack wrought arrangements. rhythm section of bassist Reggie Veal and A Different Hat Fortunately the production here is drummer Herlin Riley is particularly bril- intentionally sparse, allowing her voice to liant) to nudge each song in the right direc- Carrack UK Records be deservedly out front. Good for Tweedy tion. But this is clearly Wilson’s album and The musical equivalent of a utility in tackling such a project and to Staples for it’s her artistic vision that shines through infielder, Paul Carrack has one of the most her willingness to reach across both genre and through. recognizable voices ever attached to a name and generation. The resultant effort is that From the beginning of her glorious not readily known. As the singer behind infrequent beast that inhabits the better of career Cassandra Wilson has continually such hits as “How Long?” by Ace, Squeeze’s two realms while diminishing neither. set a high standard. With Silver Pony she ‘CD’s’ continued on next page
10 February 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE what’s happening
‘CD’s’ continued from page 10 BY JAMES CASSARA “Tempted,” and lead vocalist for Mike And Abigail Washburn at the Grey Eagle the Mechanics, his engaging baritone could be heard on FM or Abigail Washburn it isn’t simply burn entered a song into the radio for parts of the about conjuring up the sounds of Chris Austin Songwriting decades. He’s also our heritage but more about re- Contest at MerleFest. Her an accomplished turning to what songs do best, the entry took second place and songwriter, having evocation of a simpler time when attracted the attention of Net- written songs for theF gulf between the music we made and twerk Records. After signing The Eagles, Tom the way we lived wasn’t nearly so great. with the label, she played a Jones and Jools Hol- Armed with a determination to make mini-tour of China before land. art as pure as it should be, the singing, returning home to record her On A Different Hat Carrack’s sets songwriting, Illinois-born and Nashville- debut effort. The resulting about – with admittedly mixed results – to based musician is fascinated with the Song of the Traveling Daugh- reinterpret some of his own best known past but only as it determines the future. ter appeared in 2005. songs as well as a few of the classic hits that Playing claw hammer banjo – an instru- Washburn soon re- helped form his earliest musical awareness. ment not typically showcased these days turned to the Asian conti- His spirited reworking of Randy Newman’s – Washburn combines venerable folk nent, touring as part of the “I Think It’s Going To Rain Today” engulfs elements with far-flung sounds. Sparrow Quartet (which also this overly familiar number with an irides- The results feel both strangely famil- comprised Bela Fleck, fiddle cent afterglow, a velvet tone that manages to iar and unlike anything being done today. virtuoso Casey Driessen, and give it some much needed breath. Washburn’s journey, and the fashion in Brothers, with whom she had become good cellist Ben Sollee) before again returning The inclusion of such standards as which she developed her style, is both friends. They needed a banjo player for an to the States. The four released a 2008 “Moon River” and “I Can’t Make You Love fascinating and complicated. upcoming Alaskan tour. album and continued to perform across Me” might be a tad predictable but they’re Although she grew up singing she Seeing it as an opportunity to “see the the United States. the type of songs Carrack’s voice is best had no desire to become a professional sites and play some music,” Washburn blew Washburn is now touring solo in suited for; his obvious love for them shines musician, and part-time gigs as a backup the dust off her banjo and began a crash support of City of Refuge, her brand new through even when the arrangements fail vocalist in reggae, gospel, and rhythm course in playing the instrument; she even- album for Rounder Records. Produced to ignite. and blues bands were seen as little more tually joined the band and embarked on her by Tucker Martine, who also played than playful diversions. But a 1996 trip first real tour. drums on the set, it features a slew of …powerful and dramatic to China, where she originally intended Performing in front of an audience guests including Bill Frisell, Jeremy Kit- to study law, changed all that. Picking up fit like a glove, and Washburn was soon tel, Viktor Krauss, and Kenny Malone. Thankfully he’s not afraid to shake the native language faster than she imag- assuming lead vocals as well. With the tour Look for a review in next month’s Rapid things up a bit, including a few original and ined, she soon fell in love with Chinese completed, Nashville was the budding River Magazine. In the meantime be sure lesser known songs, even if he does tend to traditions. musician’s next stop. While living there, she to catch Washburn live, as she premieres inexplicably hide his own singing behind a Reconsidering the culture of her continued her banjo studies and began to the new material and continues to expand veil of electronica and tedious drumbeats. own homeland, she bought a banjo and write songs. her already strong and dedicated fan base. Still, when he pushes himself, as he does decided to explore the rich heritage of In 2004, she met Jing Li Jurca, who on his masterful version of Peggy Lee’s folk and bluegrass music. Mastery of the would help her write her first song in Abigail Washburn at the “I Don’t Know Enough About You,” the instrument didn’t happen right away, and Chinese, as well as K.C. Groves, a founding IF Grey Eagle on Saturday, results are both powerful and dramatic. fans of Washburn’s banjo style might be member of the old-time string band Uncle YOU February 5. Showtime is In the liner notes, producer/arranger shocked to learn she went years without Earl. Washburn joined the second incarna- GO 8pm. With tickets priced at David Cullen admits to not knowing who even touching the instrument. tion of Uncle Earl and appeared on the $12 advance and $15 day of Paul Carrack was and having no familiar- Later, while living in Vermont, she band’s 2005 album, She Waits for Night. show. There will be limited ity with his vast body of work. That might was working as an activist for the Cleary Keeping her solo options open, Wash- seating available so get there early. make him an unlikely collaborator but it also disposes him of any preconceived notions of the assignment. The end project might not be the stuff of greatness but for Carrack’s fans, and even Like most of his post 2000 solo efforts tone, sort of Elvis Costello meets Roy Clark. Dan Bern National Tour those curious enough to want to hear more, Broken Record reveals as much about the It might never get radio play but, for those Dan Bern is artist’s insecurities as it does his hopes, but willing to take a chance, provides rewards A Different Hat offers plenty of evidence best known why he remains one of pop music’s most if that was all Cole had to offer we’d hardly aplenty. For those readers unfamiliar with for his prolific consistent go to guys. *** keep coming back year after year. What his catalog, start with this one, work back songwriting and he does provide is another batch of drool towards 1991’s Don’t Get Weird on Me, magical stage Lloyd Cole observation, clever wordplay and a knack for Babe (a collection of song cycles based on presence. subtle but catchy hooks. the short stories of Raymond Carver) and Broken Record On “Writer’s Retreat,” a sardonic take be sure to pick up the recently released 25th Fresh on the heels of 2010’s Live Tapete Records on those who use plenty of words to say anniversary deluxe reissue of his masterwork in Los Angeles, Bern will release, “Not that I little, Cole ruminates about “taking an after- Rattlesnakes. There’s plenty more were that Live in New York for this tour. The have that much noon to write your latest screenplay.” But, came from. two live records include some of dignity left any- as always, you never know if the object of Despite never being the most prodi- his best-loved songs, including “Jerusalem,” “God Said No,” “I’m more….” Lloyd his antipathy is the scorned lover or the man gious artist, Cole has made 15 albums over Not the Guy” and “Tiger Woods,” as who let her go. nearly 30 years, and each one has something Cole sings the well as a slew of brand new songs opening track – set to country twang guitars While originally from the UK, Cole has to offer. As he approaches the half century and previously live-only material. and pedal steel – of his latest homage to lived in NYC for more than two decades mark Lloyd Cole is no less the fascinating middle age encroachment, sagging waistlines and as such his music has steadily morphed artist that he was three decades ago, and for IF YOU GO: Sunday, February 13 Dan and mortgage payments. away from Brit pop towards a more pastoral that we should all be grateful. **** Bern performs at The Grey Eagle.
Vol. 14, No. 6 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — February 2011 11 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE thoreau’s garden California Poppies
ne of the more interesting things about money problems shows up BY PETER LOEWER when commercial institutions, like banks, cut back on money spent to traveled with a Russian sci- tone up their grounds. Thus it was entific expedition to search Owith interest I noted that some California for the northern passage poppies had been allowed to reseed at the between the Atlantic and edge of a local parking lot. Pacific. He was joined on In the late sixteenth century, Span- the trip by a young Russian ish sailors journeying along the California naturalist of German extrac- coast looked upon the hillsides awash with tion, one Johann Friedrich a golden hue and named the country Tierra Eschscholtz. del Fuego; others upon seeing the glow- They never found the ing shores would shout: “Gold! Gold!” and shortcut, but von Chamisso believe for a moment that they had found rediscovered the poppy the true land of Eldorado; then one Father and honored Johann when Junipero Serra when viewing the golden naming the genus. splendor, shouted: “At long last I’ve found In 1890 it became the Holy Grail!” They The blossoms, which last three or had all seen four days, close at night. the blooms of the Cali- fornia poppy (Eschscholtzia californica), the state flower and many a flower as close to the color of burnished think it was partly respon- gold as you’re liable to find in the vegetable sible for the poppy boom kingdom. all over the civilized world: The first person to collect and return In art, cooking, and cul- specimens to England (it was then the col- ture, the flower was used lecting center of the civilized world) was for everything from butter- Archibald Menziwa, a naval surgeon and pat designs to architectural Illustration by Peter Loewer botanist who sailed on a voyage of discovery trim. Of course, the other in 1791 that ended up on the shores of what reason was the romantic was to be California, but the plants never attachment to drugs enjoyed by the French terracotta, and white plus single and double survived the trip back and the collected and English romantic poets and artists at blooms (doubles are sterile). That disc at seeds never grew. that century’s turn. the base of the flower is called a torus. And Then in 1815, Adelbert von Chamisso The blossoms, which last three or four a torus is thought to be a kind of valve to (a poet whose work Schumann set to music days, close at night. They come in the com- control pressures between the top and bot- in the song cycle Frauenliebe and -leben) mon gold and additional shades of scarlet, tom of the flower. Although it’s a biennial in California, elsewhere this flower is tread as an annual because it blooms the first year from seed. Plants thrive in window boxes, planters, FEE FREE DAYS AT YOUR NATIONAL PARKS and pots, needing only well-drained soil and as much sun as you can provide. Some arl Sandburg Home National His- of the newer cultivars include ‘Watermelon toric Site and national parks across Heaven’, ‘Rose Chiffon’, and ‘Red Chief’. C the country are waiving admission California poppies will continue to fees on seventeen selected dates in 2011. bloom well into fall and only stop when cut Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar down by a killing frost. Collected seeds from The hours I spend with announced that the parks will waive the many hybrids will not grow to true form admission fees during National Park and color but will revert to the wild type. you I look upon as sort of Week (April 16-24), the first day of sum- a perfumed garden, a dim This guitar along with 400 other objects are on mer (June 21), National Public Lands display at the Carl Sandburg Home. twilight, and a fountain Day (September 24), and the weekend of never a charge to enter the grounds, hike singing to it. Veterans Day (November 11-13). Peter Loewer, The National Park Service invites over 5 miles of trails, or visit the dairy shown here, You and you alone make me you to come by for a visit, to relax and to goats at Mrs. Sandburg’s farm operation. examining the feel that I am alive. Other learn a little more about this great nation. IF YOU GO: Carl Sandburg Home blossoms of America’s 394 national parks are perfect early-blooming men it is said have seen National Historic Site is located three for family time, fresh air, and opportuni- miles south of Hendersonville off U.S. Lenten roses, angels, but I have seen thee ties to learn about our country. 225 on Little River Road. The park is is a well- and thou art enough. Carl Sandburg Home National open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily. For known writer Historic Site will waive tour fees of the more details phone (828) 693-4178, or and botanical artist who has written and ~ George Moore Sandburg Home on these days. There is visit www.nps.gov/carl. illustrated more than twenty-five books on natural history over the past thirty years.
12 February 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS southern comfort A JOURNAL OF SHORT STORIES BY JUDY AUSLEY Quite a Story-Teller ack in 1994, when I was writing different old-timers as hard and frightening. feature stories in Watauga County, From the stories I have done for so someone in Boone told me about long in the mountains this is true. The folk singer, Bessie Mae Eldreth. generations before and during those ‘30s At the time she was about to be and ‘40s was nothing but hard work for little presentedB with the North Carolina Folklore wage for what they did. Bessie was inspired Society’s Brown-Hudson Folklore Award in to write a song about her father called “Six Raleigh. The award is bestowed on a person O’Clock Quittin’ Time.” in North Carolina each year for their part in Bessie was like most of the women on performing and preserving folklife in NC. farms in that era. They worked on the farm The old gentlemen in Boone said, alongside their husbands in order to raise “Judy if you see her, get her to tell you the vegetables to feed their families. naked chicken tale.” He said, “She is from It was very hard on many young brides around here and looks a lot like Loretta in those days. She said smiling, “I worked Lynn.” Well, that perked my curiosity so I with Ed when we tried to clear land and we asked around town and found out how to were actually chopping hard rocks. They get in touch with Bessie. rode horses back and forth A couple of weeks after to the farmhouse when they that I set out driving up to- I can remember finished a days’ work. wards Ashe County, but still a laughing like I It was a memorable part of rural Watauga County day visiting with Bessie and in search of Bessie. I had also hadn’t laughed in yes, she told me the Naked been told by others that she a long time. Chicken story. I can remem- was quite a story-teller. ber laughing like I hadn’t “Bessie is unique and laughed in a long time. sings messages of the mountain South in a Bessie said, “Well, the story happened way that paints a picture right before your 54 years ago. Eldreth was a young mother face,” Dr. Patricia Swain of UNC in Chapel of three and pregnant with her fourth child. Hill explained to me after I learned she had At the time they had 180 chickens on their written her doctoral dissertation on Eldreth farm. One night she was awakened during and her music. a nightmare and told Ed that she dreamed a Swain explained that Eldreth sings songs flood was going on, the water was high and about three mountain identities: church, the chickens were all killed. She remem- family strife in the 1930’s and 1940’s in the bered that it had been raining that time for mountains and music about love gone wrong. three weeks. Some of her music that she sings, she sings She said, Ed just laughed and turned while washing clothes, rocking babies to sleep over in the bed. and cooking meals on a wood stove. History tells it as the 1940 flood in Well, I found Bessie at the top of a the Watauga and Ashe counties area that steep hill in Watauga, so steep that I had to wiped out so many farm families. It was park my vehicle on the side of the road and a devastating time in the mountains for hike to the top to find her house. That day I the Eldreths. They had to flee their home visited with her, she was singing an old bal- in the middle of the night. It was a flood. lad she wrote called, “Those Ole TB Blues,” There was nowhere to go but to the top of a song about dying with tuberculosis. the mountain, Eldreth said. We sat down near an the old wood stove “Me and Ed walked back down to lower that piped out warmth for us and fit for the ground when it was over to see if we could wind hollowing outside. She had her modest salvage anything from the farm,” she said. home furnished with pictures on the wall “Much to my horror,” she said, “every- of some of the entertaining she did over the where we looked dead chickens were lying years and a few with the “famous Loretta” as all over the place. Our chickens had their she called her. She added, that girl has always feathers stripped from their bodies by the been my idol. Her deep brown eyes shined fierce storm and the rain that poured all those bright when I asked about her family. days.” It was devastating for the couple. Well, this High Country pioneer Eldreth said that she was afraid for a woman got married at 16 and when I inter- long time and they just brushed themselves viewed her on that day she proudly said, “I off and started over again. Another trait of am 81 years old.” I was surprised because mountain people. Mountain people do not she looked and acted like a younger person. give in, they just start over again. “Mountain life for any of us is hard “You know as many times as I have because my generation had to work in the told the naked chicken story, Ed never fields and in the house. She had 11 children doubted any of my dreams or nightmares with her farmer husband, Ed Eldreth. The again,” Bessie said, laughing. mountain life has often been described by Continued on page 38
Vol. 14, No. 6 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — February 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.
in many ways, but he is a man with compas- I Love You Phillip Morris ∑∑∑∑ character and allows the screenplay, not just sion – a rare trait in a man who traffics il- Short Take: Unusual comedy-drama Jim Carrey, to shine. legal workers as in construction and as street about a gay Texas con artist, and the As good as he is, the real revelation here vendors. Perhaps he gets his compassion young man he falls in love with, while is Ewan MacGregor. Compare his perfor- from his psychic sensitive skills (one of the in prison. Features an outstanding mance in this film with the one he gave in many sub plotlines) wherein he sees dead performance from Ewan McGregor as The Ghost Writer earlier this year and you people who haven’t crossed over yet. Inter- the title character. begin to realize what a first rate actor he estingly, Uxbal does not exploit this really is. As often seems to be the case with gift. He just quietly helps bereaved most British performers, once the initial love ones when asked. recognition factor is over, they become the Essentially Biutiful juggles character they are portraying. In addition to fatherhood, divorce, death, love, Carrey and McGregor, Leslie Mann gives Javier Bardem stars as dying man trying to friendship, mental illness, addiction, a wonderful performance as John Russell’s make things right in Biutiful. anger, betrayal and strife throughout put upon Christian wife, Debbie, who stays Biutiful ∑∑∑∑1/2 the film. One of these subjects alone in touch with him after their divorce. would be a daunting enough task, Although billed as a comedy which is Short Take: The devastatingly beautiful but then again, these things are life what you would expect from Jim Carrey and difficult story of a small time crook – messy, unplanned and all at once. and despite several highly comic episodes, who strives to make things right with With all of this weighing on a man there is a serious side to I Love You Phillip the world and with his young children who is living on borrowed time, it Morris, and that is the tender relationship after being told he is dying. becomes a staggering weight for both between Russell and Morris. If you are REEL TAKE: Javier Bardem gives a devastat- Ewan McGregor and Jim Carrey as imprisoned lovers Uxbal and the audience. As Uxbal in the interesting and offbeat I Love You Phillip Morris. uncomfortable with the idea of a love story ingly beautiful performance in Alejandro deals with each and every aspect, involving two men, then you might want Gonzalez Innaritu’s Biutiful. Biutiful is an al- Biutiful becomes a story of redemption to skip I Love You Phillip Morris. But, most poetic meditation on life and death and and forgiveness, but not necessarily in the REEL TAKE: Ask anyone who knows me if you do, you will be missing one of the love and conflict. The plot carries enough conventional sense. and they’ll tell you that I am no fan of Jim more honest films of the year, as well as weight for several movies. This works to the Cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto Carrey. In fact I don’t care for the entire McGregor’s and Carrey’s top performances. film’s credit and discredit, creating a story of (Brokeback Mountain) takes the story to generation of comedians to which he be- Because of this movie, I am ready to forgive complex depth, but also too long a running another level with both ethereal and earthy longs (Steve Martin, Bill Murray, and Robin Jim Carrey for ruining one of my favorite time. This layering of story and global strife work. The bookend opening and closing Williams are other prime examples). They book series with his appearance in the film seems to be a hallmark of Innaritu’s work, sequences with father and daughter whis- indulge in “verbal slapstick” which I define version of Lemony Snicket’s A Series of who directed the multi-continent, world pering, shows only their hands while he tells as overindulgence in words and gestures that Unfortunate Events. crisis besotted Babel in 2006, earning him an her the story of the ring he puts on her fin- attempt to declare “look how funny I am”. However, if you put these guys on a leash Rated R for sexual conduct including strong Oscar nomination. Regardless, the story is ger. It creates warmth and intimacy before dialogue, and language. impressive and even more so is its star. the scene gives way to a secondary bookend and keep them under control, then they can REVIEW BY CHIP KAUFMANN Bardem, who can light up a room with sequence - a dreamy and poetic chapter in a be extremely effective (Bill Murray in Lost in Translation or Robin Williams in Dead his smile, also carries a wellspring of emo- snowy wood. The photography in between ∑∑∑∑ tion in his eyes. It’s the kind of acting that is working class Barcelona. It is honest, hard Poets Society to name two examples). Made in Dagenham seems so utterly organic, I wonder if it can and gritty. All of these elements serve this I Love You Phillip Morris is the true Short Take: The 1968 strike by even be taught. I believe it comes quietly complicated story perfectly. A terrific sup- story of John Russell (Carrey), a Bible women workers at the Ford plant in from within the actors who possess such porting cast also supports Biutiful. spouting Virginia Beach policeman who Dagenham that centered on sexism a gift, actors who have such an intuitive I had already done my Top Ten lists comes out of the closet and becomes one of in the workplace is recounted in grasp of the human condition. Biutiful may by the time I saw this movie and wrote my the most successful real life con men in his- this compelling docudrama with an demonstrate this better than any other film review, but it could easily have a contender. tory. After running up and skipping out on outstanding performance by Sally Bardem has made to date. It will no doubt be nominated for Best For- debts in Florida, he settles in Texas where he Hawkins. Bardem plays Uxbal, a small time crook eign Film. See it if you can. It will open this becomes a successful car salesman and later a REEL TAKE: After seeing Never Let Me who is trying to put things in order when month in Asheville at either The Fine Arts business executive. Go, Nowhere Boy, The King’s Speech and he is told that he will be dead in matter of Theatre or Carolina Cinema. He can only fool people for just so long now Made in Dagenham in the past few months. Dying of cancer, he tells no one as before he is caught and sent to prison, where months, all I can say is that I wish the U.S. Rated R for disturbing images, language, some he meets a sweet Southern boy, Phillip he tries to make amends and tries to secure sexual content, nudity and drug use. had a national film council the way the U.K. a safe future for his two young children. He Morris (Ewan MacGregor), and they fall has. The fact is that the films being released REVIEW BY MICHELLE KEENAN isn’t finished with life, much is unresolved in love. As in The Truman Show and The under the auspices of the U.K. Film Coun- Majestic, Carrey convincingly portrays his and much is left to do. Uxbal is a hard man ‘Movies’ continued on page 15
14 February 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE film reviews
‘Movies’ continued from page 14 British working class dialect is that the movie is full of it and can be hard to under- ∑∑ stand at times. Just be aware of that and pay The Green Hornet 1/2 a little extra attention to what is being said The Green Hornet is another and you’ll be able to follow most of it. It’s a addition to the ever-growing genre small price to pay for a film that will leave of action-comedies. Part superhero you cheering at the end. Think of it as Brit- spoof, part crime-action, it tells the ish version of Norma Rae and you’ll know story of Britt Reid (Seth Rogan) what to expect. — an heir to a prominent newspaper company — and his quest to rid the Rated R for brief language and sexuality. streets of evil. With the assistance of REVIEW BY CHIP KAUFMANN his late father’s assistant Kato (Jay Chou), Reid creates an alias called the No Strings Attached ∑∑∑ Green Hornet to seek justice against the city’s crime lord, Chudnofsky Seth Rogen and Jay Chou as Kato prepare to Sally Hawkins as strike leader Short Take: Boy meets girl, boy likes battle the bad guys in The Green Hornet. Rita O'Grady in the well made British girl. Boy and girl try to keep their (Christoph Waltz). They use Reid’s docudrama Made in Dagenham. relationship purely physical, no strings resources and Kato’s many skills to attached. pose as bad guys to try to become the film if it either included more jokes or cil are better than most of the independent new heroes of Los Angeles. played it completely straight. The movie REEL TAKE: No Strings Attached has films being released in this country. Noticed I basically got what I expected out did have its high points. Cameron Diaz received an obscene amount of press in the that I said released as opposed to being made of The Green Hornet — solid medioc- gives a fun performance as Reid’s new last few weeks. The marketing departments for there are several good small films out rity. It’s not a bad movie, but I doubt I secretary and Christoph Waltz makes an must be working overtime to maximize there like Winter’s Bone but the major dis- will ever want to see it again. It starts off excellent villain. Natalie Portman’s apparent shoe-in status tributors are just not picking them up. slow, and I wasn’t truly entertained until I’ll admit that I may not have the for Best Actress for The Black Swan. I Made in Dagenham is a docudrama about halfway through the film. I espe- right sense of humor for some of its like Natalie Portman and I think Ashton about a strike by women workers at the Ford cially liked a scene between Chudnofsky jokes and others will probably find it Kutcher is a very funny, very likeable guy, Cortina plant in Dagenham, England in and James Franco as a sleazy club owner. more enjoyable. I recommend The but with promotion overload for the last two 1968. It actually began when they found out My biggest complaint with The Green Hornet mainly to teenage boys weeks, I thought we might get dealt another that Ford was planning to reclassify women Green Hornet is its failure to choose who will enjoy it the most, but if you’re Bounty Hunter. workers as unskilled so they could pay them a genre. While it does have its humor- simply in the mood for a fun action film, less. The strike not only shut down the plant ous moments, I hesitate to classify The The Green Hornet is a decent pick. I in Dagenham, it also wound up shutting Green Hornet as a true comedy and it do think the 3D version seemed rather down every Ford plant in Britain as well. is also not strong enough to be consid- pointless, so save yourself the three Rita O’Grady (Sally Hawkins), a seat ered a true action bucks and see the 2D cover seamstress, becomes the unlikely film. I understand version instead. spokesperson for the women workers aided that the movie wants Rated PG-13 for violent by her local Union boss (Bob Hoskins). to incorporate both TEEN The heads of the Trade Unions, pressured action, language, sensu- genres, but I think ality, and drug content. by Ford in the U.S. (Danny Huston is the The Green Hornet REVIEW phone voice of Henry Ford II), don’t want would be a far better to support them but the women find a cou- by Clara Sofia ple of powerful allies in Labour Secretary of State Barbara Castle (Miranda Richardson) Ashton Kutcher outshines the Black Swan and the Cambridge educated wife (Rosa- herself, Natalie Portman in the romantic mund Pike) of one of the factory managers comedy No Strings Attached. who treats her with no respect. other than just sex. The problem is one of Season of the Witch ∑∑∑ What makes Made in Dagenham such Fortunately No Strings Attached is a the love birds (Portman) thinks she has a cut above the run of the mill romantic com- Short Take: Another Saturday Matinee a rewarding experience is the recreation of “peanut allergy to relationships.” However throwaway for Nicholas Cage recalling 1968 Britain. The fashions, the music, the edy. It’s not in the league of Love Actually, when the guy is as nice, tall, happy, funny and it is certainly predictable and formulaic, the heyday of Hammer Films is not outlook, and the ultimate optimism of that and thoughtful as Kutcher, a girl is bound to nearly as bad as some critics say. time are perfectly captured by the filmmak- but it’s also a breath of fresh air. No Strings come around eventually. So long as the plot ers. Having actually lived through that time, Attached is a modern comedy that should points between A and B are funny, you’ve REEL TAKE: Season of the Witch has had a this movie completely took me back there suit the Portman/Kutcher generation quite got a decent rom-com on your hands. troubled history. Shot in November 2008, which is the highest compliment I can pay it. well. I feel a tad old writing this, but my Kutcher shines in the film, he is clearly it sat on the shelf for over a year with an All of the performances from the generations’ defining romantic comedies comfortable (and actually excels) in the intended release date of Spring 2010 which ensemble cast are top flight, and the direc- with John Cusack, or the Tom Hanks/Meg genre. Kudos to director Ivan Rietman as got moved back to Summer then Fall and fi- tion from Nigel Cole (Calendar Girls) Ryan/Nora Ephron teamings are great, but well; I think he just had a good time with nally it snuck into theaters last month. Most handles all the various elements with skill a bit outdated now. They won’t resonate the goings on. Obviously more comfortable of the reviews are withering but, according and understatement. The one criticism I with the Y and Millenial generations. (I was in her ballet slippers, Portman seems slightly to the online website Rotten Tomatoes, it’s have concerns the script, which is a little recently told by someone [obviously much out of place, even if it was some neces- another example of where the audience likes on the two dimensional side, making the younger] that John Cusack and George sary levity after the weightiness of Black it far more than the critics do. In this case good people too good (the Sally Hawkins Clooney, among others, were “good for old Swan. It’s interesting to see the comparison I’m on the side of the audience. character was created for the film to increase guys.” OMG!) between the actors. It goes to show that Season is a throwback to the type of the emotional impact), and the bad people But I digress … In a nutshell No comedy is not as easy as it looks, and when Saturday matinee material that once was a (all men of course) obviously bad, but it’s Strings Attached is the story of a boy and a done well should be applauded. regular part of the American movie land- undeniably effective. girl trying to keep their relationship purely scape. Since it is part of that tradition, it physical, which of course will never work. It Rated R for sexual content, language and some shouldn’t be judged by the same critical One caveat I would pass along to older drug material. moviegoers and those unfamiliar with the is only a matter of time before our love birds standard used for more serious films. It is realize they want something more from each REVIEW BY MICHELLE KEENAN ‘Movies’ continued on page 16
Vol. 14, No. 6 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — February 2011 15 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE film reviews
‘Movies’ continued from page 15 Once the journey begins we are are the majority will be appalled. clearly in Hammer Films territory. Not the That is a decision that you will have Frankenstein or Dracula films (although to make for yourself (although my Christopher Lee has a significant cameo rating should make my opinion as a Cardinal dying of the plague) but the pretty clear). historical adventure films like The Viking The story is simplicity itself and Queen and She. The look, the feel, the has been done many times before. A dialogue and lack of dialect are spot on. If hard partying actor (Stephen Dorff), CGI had been available in the 1960s, then living a life of excess in Hollywood’s Hammer would have used it. Of course legendary Chateau Marmont, is they still would have found a way to shoot bored and burnt out. Into his life it for considerably less money. comes his 11 year old daughter Together Nicholas Cage, sporting yet (Elle Fanning) whom he has barely another interesting hairpiece, and Ron Perl- seen. They spend time together, get man, older and grayer but still a force to be to know each other and bond, she Ron Perlman and Nicholas Cage reckoned with, make a formidable team. A leaves for Summer camp and he Tommy Lee Jones and Ben Affleck get the ax in prepare to undergo a perilous journey solid supporting cast of Stephen Campbell drives off into the desert and then The Company Men. in Season of the Witch. Moore, Ulrich Thomsen, and Robert Shee- abandons his Ferrari. The End. han (not to mention Christopher Lee) chew Sound like fun? That description is in the Air is an automatic critic’s darling, essentially a glorified B movie fantasy with the scenery with relish, which is exactly actually a good deal more exciting than The Company Men is not but that does not supernatural overtones that due to the ex- what you are supposed to do with this kind anything that occurs over the movie’s 97 make it any less of a movie. Unfortunately pense of CGI cost $40 million to make. of material. Claire Foy, as the title character, minute running time, which seemed much it will be dismissed by altogether too many Crusaders Nicholas Cage and Ron Perl- is not given a lot to do but she makes her longer than that. Director Coppola gives critics for being too mainstream and/or man, tired of fighting and killing people in presence felt. us plenty of time to know the characters, focusing its main characters on upper level God’s name, leave the army and attempt to Of course in the larger scheme of but there’s not that much to know, and, management types for whom we really find their way back home. During one stop cinematic things, Season of the Witch is not by choosing to shoot it in a cinema-verite don’t need to feel sorry. That’s unfortunate they encounter victims of the Black Death, a great movie. Many critics declare that it is style, the pacing of the film becomes non- because this film is so much more than what a massive plague that wiped out over half of not even a good one, but I think it is mighty existant after awhile. Once we see their is conveyed in such a dismissive synopsis. Europe’s population between 1348 and 1350. entertaining. As I sit down and watch the relationship develop early on, there’s I believe audiences will relate to and enjoy Shortly afterwards they are recognized as film Jason and the Argonauts (a film much nowhere to go. There is a sequence in Italy The Company Men. It’s truly a movie for deserters and imprisoned. Their only chance derided in 1963) on TV for the umpteenth and in Italian that does relieve the tedium, our times. for freedom is to agree to transport a woman time, I can see Season entertaining people for but not for long. The Company Men follows the lives believed to be a witch and responsible for years to come long after many of the current While Somewhere contains numerous of three executives over the course of a year the plague to a nearby monastery. critically acclaimed movies are forgotten. flaws, the lead performances are not among of corporate downsizing. They all work for them. Stephen Dorff and Elle Fanning GTX, a shipyard / boat building giant that Rated PG-13 for thematic elements, violence, and grew to preposterous proportions. Now disturbing content. (younger sister of Dakota which is why she looks so familiar) are perfectly natural in the bubble is about to burst, but not before Theatre Directory REVIEW BY CHIP KAUFMANN their roles. It is possible, since they are still executive level management cashes in on its own stocks (for a thorough understand- Asheville Pizza & Brewing Company relatively unknown, that they are simply Somewhere ∑∑1/2 ing of this kind of corporate fleecing, see Movieline (828) 254-1281 playing extensions of themselves. Only my review of The Inside Job from a couple www.ashevillepizza.com Short Take: Sofia Coppola’s latest Time and additional performances will be excursion into real life wears out its able to answer that question. month’s back). Beaucatcher Cinemas (Asheville) welcome pretty quickly despite good Speaking of Time, it’s time to put an Bobby Walker (Ben Affleck), is a 37 year Movieline (828) 298-1234 performances from Stephen Dorff and end to this review. Unlike writer-director old salesman living the American dream. He Biltmore Grande Elle Fanning. Sofia Coppola, I won’t continue to say the has a wife, two kids, an above average house 1-800-FANDANGO #4010 same things or make the same points over in an above average neighborhood, and a www.REGmovies.com and over. I really wanted to like this movie Porsche in the garage. He’s good at his job, Carmike 10 (Asheville) as it is an example of the type of small scale he’s cocky, arrogant, and the rug is about Movieline (828) 298-4452 independent film (budget $8 million) that to be pulled out from under him. Gene www.carmike.com America needs to continue to produce just McClary (Tommy Lee Jones) started the company. Phil Woodward (Chris Cooper) Carolina Cinemas like their colleagues across the pond but considering the talent involved, it should is a lifer who has worked from the ground (828) 274-9500 up. The latter two characters each have more www.carolinacinemas.com have been better than it was. Just thinking about this movie again has inspired me so than thirty years invested in GTX. Cinebarre (Asheville) I think I’ll go do something exciting…like Why should we care while we watch the www.cinebarre.com watch Hertz rent cars. At least once they get world of the affluent white collars crumble? The Falls Theatre (Brevard) started, they move fairly quickly. We care because writer, director John Wells Movieline (828) 883-2200 (TV’s ER) has hit on something much big- Elle Fanning and Stephen Dorff as father and Rated R for sexual content, nudity, and language. ger and much deeper than people who can Fine Arts Theatre (Asheville) daughter getting to know each other in Sofia REVIEW BY CHIP KAUFMANN Copolla's ponderous Somewhere. afford to take $500 dollar lunches and pur- Movieline (828) 232-1536 chase $16,000 antique tables. As each man www.fineartstheatre.com ∑∑∑∑ REEL TAKE: In Somewhere director Sofia The Company Men 1/2 adjusts to life after the pink slip, we see not Flat Rock Theatre (Flat Rock) Coppola (Lost in Translation) has man- Short Take: Three corporate executives just what happens to them, but to the people Movieline (828) 697-2463 aged the not inconsiderable feat of reviving deal with life after the pink slip. and communities around them. We also see www.flatrockcinema.com the corporate conundrum of America from the cinema-verite style of Andy Warhol. REEL TAKE: The Company Men resonated various perspectives, including the view Four Seasons (Hendersonville) Whether that’s a good thing is entirely deeply in our family and I think it will for from the top. Movieline (828) 693-8989 another matter. As in the case of Warhol’s many Americans. The Company Men is Smoky Mountain Cinema (Waynesville) movies some may be enthralled, but chances 2010’s Up in the Air. However, while Up Movieline (828) 452-9091 ‘Movies’ continued on page 17
16 February 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS 2010 TOP 10 CRITICAL PICKS film reviews & PERSONAL FAVORITES
‘Movies’ continued from pg. 16 to American audiences as the Paul Mc- ward season for the film industry most impressive feat a film can do is to Cartney-like young fellow from Across the is here. While the SAG awards be critically well received and be popular Jones nails his role as a man who cre- Universe) stars as the Janusz, a young Pole (Screen Actors Guild) have yet with the movie goers. For those that fol- ated a company, created jobs and created accused of espionage by the Russians and to be given and Academy Award low Reel Takes, you know that we strive wealth, and who now is looking back with sent to a Siberian Gulag. There he meets nominations had not yet been to review films with their intended audi- regret as his best friend and CEO of GTX a collection of characters, including “Mr. Aannounced by the time we went to press, ences in mind. Yes, we don our critic’s prepares cash in and sell out at the expense Smith” (Ed Harris) a tough and grizzly The Golden Globe awards tip The Social caps, but we try never to lose sight of the of thousands of employees. On the flip side American, and Valka (Colin Farrell) a heav- Network as the potential front runner joy of going to the movies. Bobby gets a slice of humble pie and a few ily tattooed Russian criminal and gambler. going into award season. Will it sweep That being the case Chip and I new perspectives himself when he goes to (Unfortunately we are introduced to so the Oscars? We don’t know, and frankly thought it would be fun during this work for his ‘blue collah’ brother in-law many people so quickly it’s a little hard to my dears, we don’t really give a damn. award season to post our Critical Top played by Kevin Costner. keep track of the characters until we get to The power of film to inform, inspire 10’s for 2010 and Personal Top 10’s. Ultimately, our country is never going know them on the long walk.) and influence is like that of no other art We don’t know how they’ll stack up to to return to pre-recession levels of wealth. Having the presence of mind to seek and form. Sometimes however we [critics] Oscar, or even to your own favorites, Corporate greed sold out America, and what devise a plan of escape, Janusz aligns himself forget that at the end of the day, it’s just a but for us it’s a great to reflect on the it really takes is going back to the basics. In with other men willing to do the same. At movie. In short – it’s entertainment. The year in film. true Capra-esque form The Company Men the last minute, hails the roots American innovation, takes they are joined it to task where it failed, and gives hope for by Valka, not what it might be again. Some will criticize because he its seemingly optimistic ending, but for my wants freedom, money that’s how our country will recover but because and how we will sustain. I hope many people he owes a enjoy this movie as much as I did. gambling debt Rated R for language and brief nudity. to some fellow prisoners. No Chloe Moretz stars as Alicja Bachleda and Colin Marc Ruffalo and Soledad Villamil REVIEW BY MICHELLE KEENAN one is keen a 12 year-old vampire in Farrell star in the little Leonardo DiCaprio in and Ricardo Darin star in Let Me In. seen Irish gem Ondine. Shutter Island. The Secret in Their Eyes. ∑∑∑∑ on having the The Way Back 1/2 untrustworthy Short Take: The epic journey and crook with them, but in time he proves his allegedly true story of escape from a worth. Shortly thereafter they happen upon Chip’s Picks Michelle’s Picks Siberian Gulag during World War II. a young girl in the woods (Saoirse Ronan, I reviewed 46 films in 2010 and de- I didn’t see as many films in 2010 as Atonement, The Lovely Bones) and cons her spite the usual number of more interest- my co-reviewer did and felt a little less way into the group. Among our refugees are ing releases at the end of the year, there capable of pulling together a respectable a chef, a priest, a comedian and an artist. With were less than a handful of films that list. More over, I didn’t think it was a this, the epic 4,000 mile journey to freedom I continued to think about afterwards. great year for movies; a good year – yes; in India begins. Most of them were not on my Top 10 a great year – no. Very little managed to Janusz is the navigator and unofficial Critical Picks which is why I also include captivate and/or inspire me, and even leader of the group while “Mr. Smith” is the a list of Top 10 Personal Favorites. Only less had staying power. Regardless, metal of the group. Irena manages to worm three films can be found on both lists. when I look at my Top Ten lists, I am her way into everyone’s hearts getting them They are 127 Hours, The King’s Speech, impressed by the power and the art of to talk and tell her their life stories. In doing and The Social Network. the motion picture. so, they get to know one another as they wouldn’t have without her. They become Top 10 Critical Picks Top Ten Critical Picks stronger and more unified because of the Ed Harris, Jim Sturgess and Colin Farrell star 1. 127 Hours 1. 127 Hours in the epic tale of adventure and survival in heart of child and the chattiness of a young 2. Black Swan 2. Black Swan The Way Back. girl. Together they trek through snow, ice, 3. The Ghost Writer 3. The Fighter woodland, mountains and desserts. The feat 4. The Girl Who Played With Fire 4. The Ghost Writer REEL TAKE: Director Peter Weir returns is unimaginable and in and of itself fascinat- 5. The King’s Speech 5. The King’s Speech to the big screen for the first time since his ing. Their journey defies politics and nation- 6. MicMacs 6. The Secret in Their Eyes award-winning seafaring epic Master and alism, instead unifying unlikely friends. 7. Shutter Island 7. The Social Network Commander: The Far Side of the World. The Way Back is beautifully filmed. 8. The Social Network 8. Shutter Island The Way Back is no less epic, but stays fully As breathtaking as the scenery is however, 9. True Grit 9. True Grit grounded on terra firma. The film tells the it’s the characters that make this film work. 10. Winter’s Bone 10. Winter’s Bone story of a group of prisoners who escape Sturgess is the heart and soul of the movie as Top 10 Personal Favorites Top Ten Personal Picks from a Siberian Gulag during World War the kind-hearted Janusz. Harris and Ronan II. Weir was inspired by “The Long Walk,” have a brilliant father / daughter chemistry, 1. 127 Hours 1. The Ghost Writer by Slawomir Rawicz, a Polish POW dur- and the entire ensemble plays well together. 2. Harry Potter & The Deathly 2. Get Low ing World War II ,who claims the story of Oddly enough Weir delivers an ending that Hallows – Part 1 3. Harry Potter and the Deathly escape is true. Allegedly the story has been is even more questionable than the story 3. I Love You Phillip Morris Hallows – Part 1 debunked, but now even the debunking is itself, but at the end of the day it’s good en- 4. The King’s Speech 4. The Inside Job being questioned. Diplomatically, Weir calls tertainment. The Way Back is a film meant 5. Let Me In 5. The King’s Speech the film a fiction but seems to very much for the big screen. 6. Never Let Me Go 6. Let Me In believe Rawicz’s story and says so in the epi- Rated PG-13 for violent content, depiction of 7. The North Face 7. Ondine logue and prologue title cards. True or not, physical hardships, a nude image and brief strong 8. Nowhere Boy 8. The Town The Way Back is an amazing tale of survival, language. 9. The Secret of Kells 9. The Secret in Their Eyes endurance and unlikely friendships. REVIEW BY MICHELLE KEENAN 10. The Social Network 10. Shutter Island Jim Sturgess (probably best known
Vol. 14, No. 6 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — February 2011 17 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE performance Renowned Aquila Theatre Company in Back-to-Back Plays
quila Theatre Diana Wortham age of virtual reality and reality TV, Internet Company is one Theratre Managing hoaxes and entertainment “news,” Piran- of the foremost Director John Ellis notes dello’s play is vital and relevant while being producers of the appeal of the “two both poignant and incredibly humorous. touring theater plays in two days” week- Nobel Laureate Luigi Pirandello’s most Aand is widely renowned end, “Many audience famous drama explores the truth of reality: for bringing a thorough- members attend both What is the truth? Is one person’s reality the ly modern sensibility to performances for the same reality as another’s? Or, as the play’s great classics throughout rare opportunity to see producer admits, is it that “all these realities the United States and the same actors perform of today are going to seem tomorrow as if abroad. The company different characters, they had been an illusion.” delights audiences with sometimes very opposite First staged in Rome in 1921, Piran- innovative takes and in nature, on successive dello’s surrealist play dared to ask funda- clever staging of strong evenings.” mental questions about the very nature of scripts. On February 4, art and entertainment, blurring the line be- Over the past sever- Aquila presents Six tween reality and artifice. Just as the original A Midsummer Night’s Dream. A Midsummer Night’s Dream. al Mainstage Series sea- Characters in Search London audience at Oscar Wilde’s The Im- Photo: Richard Termine sons, Asheville audiences Photo: Richard Termine of an Author. Charles portance of Being Earnest rioted, the crowds have come to know and Spencer, writing recently in Rome erupted in cries of “Manicomio!” mistaken identity, and inappropriate, if not anticipate the annual repertory offering of for the London Telegraph, described the absolutely ludicrous, passions. this creative company on the intimate stage work as, “combining intellect with raw emo- Aquila’s comedic mastery, physical of the Diana Wortham Theatre. tion and remaining highly influential.” In the ensemble techniques, and proven successes with the company’s critically acclaimed pro- ductions of Shakespeare promise that this will be a Dream not soon forgotten. The Arts are Part of the Economic Recovery Solution Pre-show discussions: For insight and increased enjoyment of the plays, ticket holders can attend free pre-performance Statement by Americans for the Arts President and CEO Robert L. Lynch discussions in The Forum at Pack Place at 7 p.m. before both performances. rustration with the nation’s lack of public investments in the arts and culture. economic recovery is clearly top of Americans for the Arts looks forward to Theatre for Young Audiences mind among voters and candidates. working with the bipartisan Congressional In addition to its evening performances, F Likewise, nonprofit arts organiza- Arts Caucus and Senate Cultural Caucus Aquila Theatre Company presents the full- tions have also felt the sting of the reces- on Capitol Hill to continue educating length version of A Midsummer Night’s sion with state and local government arts freshman members on how the arts fuel Dream for students and teachers as part of funding dropping as much as 16 percent, our nation’s economy. A Midsummer Night’s Dream. the Diana Wortham Theatre Young Audi- and private charitable gifts to the arts Americans for the Arts will soon Photo: Richard Termine ence Series, 10 a.m. Monday, February 7. declining $1.2 billion in just two years. begin conducting the next installment of The Aquila Theatre Company’s per- (“Madhouse!”) during the first performance. Additionally, individual artists have been national research to document the size, formances of Six Characters in Search of an Yet Six Characters went on to be considered experiencing unemployment at twice the impact, and trends of the nonprofit arts Author and A Midsummer Night’s Dream a groundbreaking work and one of the most rate of other educated, professional work- industry for its Arts and Economic Pros- are made possible by Mainstage Theatre important plays of the twentieth century. ers. perity IV study. The previous study dem- Series Sponsors Michael and Catty Andry, On February 5, Aquila’s presents As our newly-elected leaders at the onstrated that the nonprofit arts industry Drs. Lee and Mario DiCesare, and The Shakespeare’s timeless comedy, A Mid- federal, state, and local levels focus on generates $166.2 billion of economic Grove Park Inn Resort and Spa. summer Night’s Dream. The New York creating jobs and growing the economy, activity annually, which supports 5.7 mil- Times praises the production as “timely and it is imperative that they understand the lion full-time equivalent jobs.” pleasing … this ‘Dream’ soothes the eye and profound role the arts play in spurring Starting today and in the next few For more information on the tickles the funny bone.” economic growth and job creation. The months, we ask you to: Aquila Theatre Company visit Aquila’s comedic mastery, physical nation’s 100,000 nonprofit arts organiza- www.aquilatheatre.com • Work with your state and local arts ad- ensemble techniques, and proven successes tions are part of the small business sector, vocacy organizations to develop a unified with the company’s critically acclaimed and the nation’s 2.2 million professional message to your newly-elected state and productions of Shakespeare promise that artists are among the millions of business local leaders. this will be a Dream not soon forgotten. entrepreneurs fueling the economy. It IF Diana Wortham Theatre’s Set against a classical Athenian backdrop, A is also important that our newly-elected • Save the dates of April 4-5, 2011 to Mainstage Theatre Series Midsummer Night’s Dream deals with the YOU leaders appreciate the connection between come to Washington, DC for National presents the Aquila Theatre universal theme of love, and its attendant GO arts education training and the develop- Arts Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill. Company in Pirandello’s Six complications: passion, lust, frustration, de- ment of creative and innovative work- Characters in Search of an • Become an official member of Ameri- pression, confusion, and of course, marriage. Author on stage February 4 at 8 p.m. force skills, which are essential to future cans for the Arts Action Fund, it’s free and Aquila weaves a web of theatrical and Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s workers to compete effectively in the 21st it connects you to all the latest political magic that will take an audience to the Dream on stage February 5 at 8 p.m. Century global economy. breaking news impacting the arts. heart of an enchanted forest, the injustice For the past four years, the House of Tickets: Regular $35; Senior $33; Student of the Athenian court, and the political Representatives initiated several hearings $30. Student Rush tickets ($10 for students For more information please visit strife of the fairy kingdom. At the heart of to spotlight the role of the arts in both the with valid I.D.) are sold the day of the show, www.AmericansForTheArts.org the story of two sets of lovers is the Fairy based on availability. To purchase tickets economy and in workforce development, www.ArtsActionFund.org King’s servant, the impish Puck, whose call the theatre’s box office at (828) 257- yielding more than $100 million in new magic creates an endless supply of mirth, 4530 or visit www.dwtheatre.com.
18 February 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE sneak preview FIRST INTERVIEW: Andie MacDowell in “The 5th Quarter”
ctress and Asheville resident Andie playing various characters? INTERVIEWED BY CHERRY HART In a warmly sincere voice, Bieber char- MacDowell will star in the March AM: It depends on what I am acterized MacDowell as “the consummate 25 release of “The 5th Quarter” doing at the time. I use professional.” He said, “She is technically filmed in Winston-Salem. This fea- tragedy to be the ending skilled and takes her work seriously. Her yoga, exercise, pray- of Luke’s life,” she said. ture film is based on the 2006 true ing, and walking performance in this role has such a strength, Astory of one family’s courage and inspiration “It is interesting but not dignity, and integrity.” outside in the coincidental,” she added, in the face of tragedy. sunshine. Beiber added that playing such a role Luke Abbate was killed in an auto acci- “that the movie is being would be challenging for any actor. “Andie dent just days before his sixteenth birthday. RR: How was released during the had the added challenge and responsibility He accepted a ride with another teenager it working with fifth anniversary year of portraying the experience of a real person after a high school team practice and never Aidan Quinn, of Luke’s death.” who was watching the filming,” he said. made it home. His mother Maryann, played “This is one of her finest performances!” who played your Rick Bieber, by MacDowell in the movie, still cries when husband Steven, MacDowell is known for her roles in she talks about the ordinary day that ended and with Ryan Director films, such as Steven Soderbergh’s “sex, in heart wrenching sorrow. Merriman, who Rick Bieber lies, and videotape;” the romantic comedy Luke’s older brother Jon, a football played your son wrote, directed, and “Four Weddings and a Funeral;” the holiday player at Wake Forest University, channeled Jon? produced “The 5th classic “Groundhog Day;” and “Short Cuts,” his grief in an unusual way. He changed Quarter.” No stranger which won the cast a Golden Globe for AM: They were his jersey number to five, the same as his Andie MacDowell stars in “The 5th Quarter” to working with A-list Best Ensemble. Two more obscure films, both wonderful. which will be released March 25. brother’s high school jersey. He began hold- actors, he started his “Object of Beauty” and “Crush,” are among I have admired ing up five fingers at the beginning of each movie career by pro- her favorites. Aidan for many years. We worked well game’s fourth quarter to honor Luke. He ducing “Flatliners,” starring Julia Roberts, together. We were all supportive of each stretched his hand toward his parents seated Keifer Sutherland, Kevin Bacon, William other. There was a lot of camaraderie. Ryan in the fifth section of the stadium. They Baldwin, and Oliver Platt. He also produced “The 5th Quarter” opens March 25 in Winston- was just adorable. He knew how important returned the gesture. “Made in America” and “Radio Flyer” for Salem and Charlotte. Pick-up the March issue his job was. Fans and even opposing players began which he says he holds “a great affection.” of Rapid River Magazine for more details. to do the same. The Wake Forest Demon RR: What was one of the things that im- Deacons won a record 11 games that sea- pressed you about the movie? son, sometimes going into overtime — the fifth quarter. They went on to play in the AM: In one of the scenes, we were filming at Orange Bowl. a real Wake Forest football game. They went 2010-2011 SEASON into the fifth quarter and won! I still get In her first interview about the movie Daniel Meyer, Music Director release, MacDowell answered questions chills thinking about it. If you did not be- about her emotional journey in portraying lieve before that, you would have to wonder. Luke Abbate’s mother, who was often on set BUY during filming, along with her husband. Maryann Abbate In a phone interview from her Marietta, TICKETS Rapid River Magazine: What was it like hav- GA, home, Maryann Abbate cried, as she Romeo & Juliet NOW! ing Luke’s mother on location? described the loss of her son and the film- Andie MacDowell: It was very intimate and ing of the movie. She said that she and her SATURDAY FEBRUARY 12•8pm powerful. Maryann was so gracious and husband cope by moving forward. “It is like Walton Touch her soft lips and supportive. dealing with a chronic illness; you learn to live with it and move on,” Abbate said. Passacaglia from Henry V RR: How did Maryann and her husband She was at home cooking supper and Mozart Concerto for Piano No. 21 cope with Luke’s being an organ donor? caring for their disabled daughter, when she “Elvira Madigan” AM: The family really struggled with that. got the news of Luke’s accident. The speed- Dudana Mazmanishvili, piano Maryann was the one who calmed every- ing teen driver lost control on a one lane Rachmaninoff Vocalise body and reminded them that being an roller-coaster-like road with no guard rail. Prokofiev organ donor was Luke’s choice. Being there Luke’s back passenger seat was crushed on Romeo & Juliet Suite for the filming brought it all back for them; impact. “I was numb,” she said. “I operated Dudana Mazmanishvili SPONSOR they were still very raw. out of instinct. When the numbness wore off about one month later, I crashed.” RR: Did you use thoughts of possibly losing The hardest part about being on the one of your own children to help you get movie location, Abbate stated, was the scene into character? of MacDowell saying goodbye to Luke. “I SATURDAY MARCH 12 Asheville Symphony AM: No, I thought about Luke instead. It had to leave the set; I cried and cried,” she New World said. “Andie came and found me and asked 50 YEAR Anniversary was depressing playing that role, especially Symphony when I would be in my room by myself. ‘Did I do it right?’ I sensed she felt a great responsibility to do this right,” she added. Commemorative Book RR: How did you cope with those emotions? “I am grateful to her for that; she was my Walker (including 50th Haydn Order AM: I would write poems about Luke to voice.” Matthew Allen, cello anniversary DVD) your copy help the pain go away. It would not go away, Abbate believes that good will come v now! though. It was a lonely experience. from the movie by warning teens about Dvorák is now available. reckless driving and encouraging others RR: What strategies do you use in your to be organ donors. Five people received career to keep you grounded when you are organ donations from Luke. “I did not want rwww.ashevillesymphony.org
Vol. 14, No. 6 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — February 2011 19 RAPID RIVER ARTS performance
Asheville Symphony Orchestra Presents Valentine Delights
he Asheville Symphony Orchestra BY STEVEN R. HAGEMAN continues its 50th season on Satur- day, February 12 at 8 p.m. The concert will consist of works by Mozart, Walton, Rach- Tmaninoff, and Prokofiev, conducted by Music Director Daniel Meyer, with guest pianist Dudana Mazmanishvili. The concert will continue the Symphony’s exploration of music inspired by Shakespeare, starting with William Walton’s heartfelt music from Henry V — Passacaglia on the Death of Falstaff and “Touch her soft lips and part” — short works written for strings as part of the soundtrack for the classic 1944 film starring Laurence Olivier. Walton also wrote the soundtracks for Pianist Dudana Mazmanishvili Photo: Sarah Shatz Olivier’s films of As You Like It (1936), Hamlet (1948) and Richard III (1955). he arranged it for symphony, and conducted Next is the beloved Concerto No. 21 this version himself with the Philadelphia in C Major for Piano and Orchestra, K. 467 Orchestra on a 1929 recording. (“Elvira Madigan”) by Wolfgang Amadeus The concert will continue the Shake- Mozart, which has not been played by speare connection and Valentine’s Day theme the Asheville Symphony in more than 15 with its final work, excerpts from Sergei years. The name “Elvira Madigan” became Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet. Originally a associated with this work in the late 1960s, ballet commissioned by the Kirov Theater, when its Andante movement was used as the the work was adapted for orchestra by the soundtrack to the gorgeous Swedish film of composer in 1935-6. Meyer says, “Prokofiev that name. The piece requires the soloist to takes you right into the heart of the drama, be “both virtuoso and poet.” According to from the humble, palpitating pangs of first Maestro Meyer, this is Mozart at his most love to the tumult of inter-family strife. The sublime. Mozart wrote the concerto in 1785, swordfights, the clandestine rendezvous, a year in which Franz Joseph Haydn told and the cries of horror and joy are all clearly Mozart’s father Leopold, “Before God, and delineated in this dramatic score.” as an honest man, I tell you that your son is Great Chamber Music the greatest composer known to me either in Free Presentations person or by name.” On Friday, February 11 from 3 to 4:30 in Intimate Venues The “virtuoso and poet” for this p.m., at the Reuter Center on the Campus performance will be Dudana Mazmanish- of UNC-Asheville, Music Director Daniel Performances and Educational Outreach vili, whose playing has been described by Meyer will discuss the musical works and Harris Goldsmith in the New York Concert introduce the featured soloists. Longtime www.classicopia.org 828-505-2903 Review: “One came away not only dazzled, WCQS music host Chip Kaufmann will talk Marcia Colligan, President Daniel Weiser, Artistic Director, [email protected] but spiritually uplifted... Only a truly unique about the composers’ life and times. artist could play with such a tonal personal- On Saturday, February 12 from 7 to 7:30 ity and vivacity of sound.” Drawn to music p.m., Meyer will present an abridged version at an early age, Dudana began piano lessons of his talk on the musical works, and will with her mother, Tamar Apakidze, at the age introduce the soloist, in the Banquet Hall of Take Your Craft to of three. As her mother nurtured Dudana’s the Asheville Civic Center. Both events are musical skills, her father, an architect, free of charge and open to the public. Another Level helped instill in her a love of visual art. Her Workshops and Core Programs watercolors and oil paintings have had sev- for Adults and Youth eral public exhibitions in Georgia. IF Tickets for the performance After intermission, the Symphony will YOU are available through the perform the romantic Vocalise, Opus 34, GO Symphony office or the No. 14, written in 1912 by Sergei Rach- Asheville Civic Center box maninoff. This is one of the most famous office, and range in price from The Only Professional melodies by the popular Russian pianist, $55 to $20 (with discounts available for conductor and composer, who commented: Acting Studio in WNC students). “Melody is Music is the foundation of all Visit www.ashevillesymphony.org or call music inasmuch as a perfect melody implies (828) 254-7046 for more information on and dictates its eventual harmonic form.” this concert, or to purchase subscription www.stellaadler-asheville.com Rachmaninoff originally composed the work tickets for the remainder of the Symphony’s (828) 254-1320 as a song for high voice and piano, but later 50th anniversary season.
20 February 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE asheville shops The Chocolate Fetish Celebrates 25 Years of Good Taste
he Chocolate Fetish, Ashe- Their daughter and general ville’s premier gourmet choc- manager Elizabeth, who gave birth to BY DENNIS RAY olate shop, celebrates their her first child recently, has been part 25th anniversary throughout of the Chocolate Fetish since moving Being an artisan chocolate store, 2011. Since 1986 this modest back to Asheville. She not only has The Chocolate Fetish is the place Tyet exceptional confection busi- a strong sense of business but is an to come shop for Valentine’s Day. ness has always used only the finest accomplished chocolate artist as well. They offer many gift packages as well ingredients in their handmade artisan A key part of this business’s success is as unique chocolate items such as chocolates; and all of their signature how everyone works with his or her Chocolate High Heel shoes. “A great products are made in small batches to strengths. way to satisfy two fetishes at once.” assure maximum freshness. “We want everyone who works Hand painted with colored cocoa but- The Chocolate Fetish is the place to shop for Valentine’s Day. Owner Bill Foley says, “This here to be an integral part of the ter and luster these shoes also make a is a big year for us. The Chocolate business,” Elizabeth says. “Everyone great gift for bridal showers and other fetish has grown over the years from contributes with ideas. That doesn’t special occasions. mean we act on every idea For Valentines why not give your but we do like having a lot loved one a red satin heart box with an gifts for of ideas on hand.” elegant ribbon and bow. Handcrafted “We listen to our chocolate includes 22 truffles, both customers when they have “Ecstasy Truffles” and “America’s [MRIPSZIVW ideas,” Bill adds. “That’s Best Truffles” plus one handmade foil what is great about being wrapped heart. Elegant and delicious. Whether they’re serious about an independent business is “My personal favorite,” Sue says, wine or just getting started, our that we can listen and act. “is the Fetish Feast. This is the gift for wide selection of gifts will tastefully And having been around those who really love chocolate.” complement even the most for years we’ve come to The Fetish Feast contains six distinguished wine cellar. know what our customers European style “Ecstasy Truffles,” six want from an upscale arti- “America’s Best Truffles,” a box of san chocolate shop. Some eight assorted dipped fruits and cara- Exceptional handmade artisan chocolates. items we’ve had more suc- mels, three Chocolate Rounds, a half- cess with than others and pound of assorted “Frogs” (caramel, wine decanter being a two person operation to a full those are the items that we keep.” nuts and chocolate), and two pairs of & developer time staff with our chocolates being “We also try and keep up with dark chocolate covered stemmed cher- shipped all over the country. In 2010 national and international trends in ries, all handmade. “It is an assortment we expanded, more than doubled our the chocolate world,” Sue says. “Retail big enough to share and delicious retail shop and completely remodeled. Confectioners International’s publica- enough to hoard.” His wife and co-owner Sue tion Kettle Talk recently stated that a “We’ve got a lot of things planned Foley adds, “We’ve grown a lot but at new trend among chocolate makers for 2011,” Elizabeth says. “I’m person- the same time we’ve grown into the is “herbs and chocolate.” Well, we’ve ally excited about this year. I recom- community.” The Chocolate Fetish been using herbs with chocolate for mend folks should definitely continue has supported local charities and local almost 10 years.” to visit us on our web page or on Face- non-profits while also being an addi- An example is their Blossom book to keep up with our anniversary tional draw for the downtown area. Truffle — A must try for any choco- events.” great gifts “Small businesses are the back- late lover, this truffle offers a rich dark Bill adds with a sense of honest starting at bone of the US economy,” Bill says. chocolate center subtly flavored with pride, “We know what we do is the $ 95 “Independent businesses are what lemon, a touch of ginger, and a hint very best and we’ll continue to always 19 +s/h makes this area such a great place of saffron encased in a dark chocolate do our best. That’s how you grow a % to visit and live. If there were only shell and garnished with a candied business to 25 years. It’s not about try- save chain stores or franchises here violet petal. ing to do a little bit of everything. The an additional 20 it would be no different than They also offer the cus- secret is to focus on what you know a million other places. But tomer favorite, Chai Moon how to do, love to do, and then go out because of unique small — a milk truffle dusted with there and do your best. That’s even To redeem this offer, go to www.RedEnvelope.com/down shops and businesses cinnamon. The 14 spices our customer motto… Enjoy And or call 1.888.506.9740 in the downtown area, commonly used in Chai Give The Best” stainless steel wine wine tasting party Asheville is constantly (Indian tea) are blended stoppers listed on top 10 places into the milk choco- to live lists in almost late ganache then every major enrobed in white The Chocolate Fetish Inc. publication. Plus chocolate. You independent experience the 36 Haywood Street local businesses flavors of Chai Asheville, NC 28801 wine dossier return much and a rich full www.chocolatefetish.com *Discount does not apply to gift cards or certifi cates, same-day delivery, shipping and handling, taxes, more to the local mouth chocolate third-party hosted products (e.g. wine), or Bose® products. Discount will appear upon checkout and economy.” taste. (828) 258-2353 cannot be combined with other offers or discounts. Offer expires 12/31/2011.
Vol. 14, No. 6 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — February 2011 21 RAPID RIVER ARTS music Sanctum Sully: Traditionally Untraditional
r maybe it’s untraditionally tradi- tional. Bluegrass bands struggle BY CHRIS CLOONAN daily with this handle that has been used to Odescribe their music and their style — especially bands claiming Asheville as home. Sanctum Sully, thankfully, deviates mightily at times from said agenda. While fully capable of wrangling a helluva version of “John Hardy” they’d much prefer covering John Hartford. And, as rarely seen among pickin’ bands of their relative youth, they’d ten times prefer yourself at least a buzz by osmosis from to punch you in the gut with potent and their devoted, if somewhat rowdy, foot powerfully written original songs. stompin’ following. Three part harmonies, blues based The band has opened the stage for guitar riffs, ringer of a mandolin, and one such acts as Larry Keel & Natural Bridge, helluva beer drinking crowd, and you’ve got Blueground Undergrass with Jeff Mosier, yourself a ‘Sully’ show. Foot stompin’ good and Greensky Bluegrass. They were also times and grassed up versions of blues, rock, recently voted the #3 Old-Time/Bluegrass and jamband tunes could sneak their way act in Asheville by Mountain Xpress Read- between covers of traditional and contem- ers (2010). porary artists. Sanctum Sully’s strengths are many and their vices just as plentiful, however, your For more information on Sanctum Sully visit www.sanctumsully.com ears will delight in not hearing just another Asheville bluegrass band. You’ll actually experience the music, and are bound to get IF Sanctum Sully with The YOU Blue Dogs, Friday, February GO 18. All ages show begins at 9 Falling in love is so hard p.m. Tickets: $8/$10. Available online at www.thegreyeagle. on the knees. com. The Grey Eagle Tavern, 185 ~ Aerosmith Clingman Ave. in Asheville. Phone (828) 232-5800 for more details.
Bring in this Ad and We’ll Take 15% Off Your Order Excluding Alcohol 1 Coupon Per Table (828) 236-9800 Delicious Open 7 Days a Week Hoagies & Pretzels Fresh-Baked Calzones 50 Broadway ~ Asheville, NC Specialty Pizzas • Spring Water Dough • Salads Wireless Vegan Soy Cheese, and other Vegetarian Options! Internet Access!
22 February 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE music
The Eternal Sunshine of BY JAMES CASSARA “THE NEXUS” Jonathan Richman SPREADS ITS WINGS
f Dick Clark is rightfully known as tional styles, without sacrificing the BY CHRIS CLOONAN “America’s Oldest Teenager,” then artist’s effervescent personality. he Spiritual Rez reggae funk Jonathan Richman is certainly poised Richman’s fans have re- dance experience is an un- to someday accept that role. Richman mained fiercely devoted abashed display of musical has been writing songs, making records over the years, and his T virtuosity. When paired with a I and performing live for most of his life, audience expanded deep, sub-sonic groove, and powerful winning fans and making friends around the substantially in the We already heartfelt vocalization, crowds are left world with his guileless honesty and play- 1990s, thanks play a dif- dancing and screaming for more. fully catchy compositions. to his frequent ferent style Over the past 8 years, these six He’s revered by countless fellow artists, guest spots on than we played men have relentlessly toured the and has built a remarkably loyal international TV’s Late Night on our live DVD, country to share their music and audience through his tireless touring. His with Conan and the way we played then appreciation of the arts. Rooted in deceptively straightforward songs embody O’Brien, his was totally different from the rock, reggae, and funk; their diversity timeless qualities of humanity, optimism, prominent appearance way we played three years exemplifies their love and desire to emotional insight and a boundless sense of in the 1998 film comedy before that. I still feel like put on a live experience that will not humor, untainted by cynicism or transient smash There’s Something we’re just starting out, and only cut to your core, but also ignite notions of what might be hip and cool. About Mary, and the inclu- I still learn new stuff every the inner flame that exists in us all. It’s The many (more than thirty and count- sions of his Modern Lovers night. Each one is differ- this power, this creative desire, that ing) records that Jonathan Richman has classics “Ice Cream Man” ent, which is what keeps it has fans traveling across the nation to made over the past 30 years have long held a and “I’m A Little Airplane” alive and real.” experience this raw and intoxicating Jonathan Richman special place in the hearts of his fans. on Sesame Street. Indeed it does: Rich- display of musical bliss. He began playing guitar as a teen and in For much of his career, man has played our town the early 1970s formed the beloved Modern Richman has toured nearly nonstop around many times over the years – for nearly Lovers; their raw, minimalist sound and the world. “Traveling and playing for new a decade he was a semi-regular at the emotionally forthright songs helped to lay people in new places is one of my favor- now defunct Vincent’s Ear – but each the groundwork for punk rock and countless ite things,” he tells me via a brief phone time brings something new. What bands to follow. But by the time the group’s interview. doesn’t change is the adoration of his landmark debut album (including the much- “It’s great playing places that are off the fans, the excitement and energy he covered “Road Runner,” a Top Five single in beaten track. You can learn a lot when you delivers, and the eternal youth that has Europe) was released in 1976, Richman had play in a little town in Holland or Western marked his musical career. already moved on to a quieter sound and a Australia, and you learn different things gentler lyrical focus. than you would learn playing a big city. Last Since then, he’s continued to record year we played in Extremadura, which is IF Jonathan Richman and and tour prolifically, first with a series of the southwest of Spain —we were the first Tommy Larkin at The Their latest album, The Nexus Modern Lovers lineups, later on his own, American entertainers ever to play there. My YOU Grey Eagle. Thursday, (2010), was created by combin- and eventually as a duo with drummer next dream is to play the Canary Islands.” GO February 24 at 9 p.m. ing elements from a multitude of Tommy Larkins. “Playing shows and making records Tickets are $15 for the influences gained from years on the Over the years, Jonathan’s music has keeps getting easier and more fun,” he show. It is standing room only so road. The result is an album that absorbed a multitude of influences, from states, adding, “Me and Tommy play totally bring those comfortable shoes and be showcases how they have grown into doo-wop to country to a variety of interna- different than we played just two years ago. ready to party! a primed party machine; ready to churn out hard-driven guitar solo’s, inspiring vocals, and powerful, funki- fied dance grooves. The Rez has been lucky enough The Big Daddy Bluegrass Band “The Next Generation” to share the stage with artists such as Gregory Issacs, Toots and The May- he Big Daddy Bluegrass Producer, engineer and BY ERIN SCHOLZE tals, Steel Pulse, and Barrington Levy. Band rides again! It has dobro virtuoso, Billy Cardine, Showing their diversity as artists, The been five long years since formerly of The Biscuit Burners, Rez has also rocked with George Clin- the band has taken the is one of Jerry Douglass’ favorite guests include Wyatt Rice, Larry Keel, Jenny Keel, Curtis Burch, Billy Con- ton and The Parliament Funkadelic, stage. new dobro men. He has shared Golgol Bordello and Jah Wobble. TSteve “Big Daddy” McMurry, the stage with Edgar Meyer at stable, Danny Knicely, and Darol Anger. front man and founding member Carnegie Hall, and his recordings For more information on the band of Acoustic Syndicate, returns to are featured on the BBC, PBS, visit www.spiritualrez.com the world of bluegrass music with and the History Channel. IF The Big Daddy Bluegrass Band, a formidable arsenal of hot, young Robert Greer, front man YOU Saturday, February 12. pickers. for Town Mountain, will also be GO Doors open at 7:30 p.m. IF Spiritual Rez, Jason Flournoy, formerly The Big Daddy joining the band, adding harmo- Show begins at 8:30 p.m. Saturday, February of Larry Keel & Natural Bridge / Bluegrass Band nizing vocals and guitar. $10 in advance, $13 at the door. YOU 19. 21+ show begins Shanti Groove, is highly respected The Big Daddy Bluegrass Valentine’s VIP Package: only $40 GO at 8 p.m. at the Emerald in all genres of music across the nation. Band is a vehicle for good times, fun music (advance tickets only!) Phone (828) Lounge, 112 N. Jay Sanders is the long time bass man for and fellowship. There are always great guest 669-0190. Pisgah Brewing Company, Lexington Ave. in Asheville. Acoustic Syndicate and former bass player musicians at their performances — you never 150 Eastside Drive, in Black Mountain. Phone (828) 232-4372 or visit www. for Donna The Buffalo. know who will turn up to play. Some past Visit www.pisgahbrewing.com emeraldlounge.com for more details.
Vol. 14, No. 6 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — February 2011 23 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE joe’s brew notes
Beerbot: The Future of Home Brewing? Out and About ave you ever wanted to brew beer If you enjoy flavorful BY JOE ZINICH but didn’t because it just seemed beer and want lots of op- too complicated? Or, have you tions, Asheville is a great place to gotten started and heard “get that selected and live with 9 and soon to be 10 brew- brewing stuff out of the kitchen”. project teams eries plus the Thirsty Monk, Pint HWell, what if you could buy a “bread maker” are formed. At House, and Brusin’ Ales. And let’s not for beer. A compact machine programmed the end of the forget Barley’s, The Bier Garden, and with beer recipes that adds ingredients, semester each Mellow Mushroom with well over controls the brewing process, and is easy to team pres- 50 taps each. Well, “great” has gotten clean and sanitize. Interested? ents a project even better. Ted Baker, an avid home brewer and plan (scope, Now not only do our breweries student in UNCA’s mechatronics engineer- timelines, and make a variety of flavorful beers year ing program, sure hopes so. He plans to budget) to ob- round (standard, seasonal, and spe- make his senior project, Beerbot, a commer- tain funding. cialty beers) many have added “mini” cial product. Ted’s idea breweries to their facilities. The equip- for a beer ma- ment is used to brew small batches chine crystal- Ted’s idea for a beer of beer to showcase the brewmaster’s lized after his inventiveness without the pressure of machine crystallized brother joked profitability. after his brother joked he he should build Wow, what a treat. Visit a brewery a robot that should build a robot that (Craggie, Greenman, Highland, and makes beer. On soon, the Wedge) to enjoy a favorite makes beer. further reflec- and be surprised with a new must-try tion he de- Team Brewbot, from left to right: Ted Baker, Brad Rogers, Brewbot, Duncan Lyon, and Adam Carter. beer available only at that brewery’s Mechantronics engineering is the cided, why not? Photo courtesy of Christine Kennedy of Christine Kennedy Photography tasting room. I hope this is a trend; it’s design of computer-controlled, electro-me- He pitched his a good one. chanical systems, for example a computer idea and Team-Beerbot was formed. Ted Impressive work. And I enjoyed the Brew- hard drive or a hybrid car. In their junior became project manager and was joined by bot beer as well. year UNCA engineering students take a Duncan Lyons for controls and electrical, laboratory course designed to facilitate the Brad Rogers for mechanical fabrication and sion price, you get a FREE CD, 9 bands development and approval of a team project design, and Adam Carter for process design BREW NEWS (that include Grant Dasantos & Fatback, to be completed in their senior year. Dur- and special projects. Johnson’s Crossroads, Now You See ing the first 3 classes students develop and Home brewing can be time consum- Craggie’s new Burning Barrel Porter Them, Underhill Rose), and food from pitch ideas to their classmates. The best are ing, discouraging, space intensive, and messy is now on tap at their Public House. It’s a four area restaurants (Bistro 1896, Fiore’s, with a steep learning curve. What if the Belgian-style porter fermented with chipotle Mela, and Salsas). Team could build a compact, automated, peppers and aged on bourbon oak chips. Ex- Plus, Highland will introduce a special new beer “Lama Legato Saison” and the University of North user friendly, home appliance that would pect a smoky/spicy aroma, a robust body, and brew flavorful beer the first time, every a smooth finish with hints of heat. An excel- Hop Ice Cream Shop will present a special Carolina Asheville time? An idea that started as a jest became a lent beer, put this on your must taste list. ice cream made from that beer. Now would funded project with real potential. Are you in the mood for a freshly- be a good time to get a ticket. UNCA is a highly regarded liberal The project was a success. The Team made Belgian beer? No need to go to Bel- Make sure to get out of your bur- arts institution in the University of created and built a working prototype that gium just visit the French Broad Brewery rows to visit Pisgah Brewing for their North Carolina system. A number of can be safely installed inside a home or and enjoy their Wee Heavy-est, Battle- “Stouthog” Day celebration February 2. years ago industry leaders in Western garage with the same space and hook-up ground Brown, Belgian Stout, or Flanders There will be 12 stouts on tap, 6 from North Carolina asked the school to requirements as a stacked washer/dryer Abbey Ale all made with Belgian yeast. The Pisgah (Chocolate, Coffee, Nitro, Imperial help meet their needs for local engi- combo. Beerbot consists of four brewing Wee Heavy-est is a Belgian Scotch ale made last year, Imperial this year, and a “bacon neering graduates. Over time UNCA vessels attached to a frame: a water heater, yearly for the Holiday season; the Battle- stout”), and 6 guest taps (Foothills Brewing developed a joint engineering program mash tun, boiler, and fermenter (from top ground Brown is a Belgian-style brown Sexual Chocolate plus five local, national, with North Carolina State University. to bottom). All but the fermenter is stainless ale, a flavorful session beer. The Belgian or international stouts – TBD). Chalwa Originally a 2 + 2 program, today steel with quick disconnects which allow the Stout is new. It is jet black with a chocolaty (roots, reggae) provides the music. This is students can complete all their classes vessels to be easily cleaned and sanitized. aroma, a rich roasted flavor, and a subtly the start of Stout month at the brewery and in Asheville. Also attached are the electrical and sweet lingering finish. Delicious. a good reason for multiple visits, six more The engineering curriculum is fo- water connections, a vessel vent pipe, hop The Flanders Abbey is a special, weeks of winter or not. cused on the discipline of Mechatron- addition unit, heat exchanger (to cool the award-winning recipe from the past. I Charlie Papazian, creator of the Beer- ics. The name stems from Mechanical wort), flow controllers, and a program- remember the original as a taste treat and City USA online poll, author of “The New and Electronics and is an approach to mable logic controller (a computer used to look forward to the latest version. Expect Complete Joy of Home Brewing”, and product design and development that automate electromechanical processes). The a fresh fruity aroma, a cloudy amber color, founder of the Home brewers Association merges the principles of electrical, me- Beerbot can control the volume of water and a sweet malty flavor with notes of apri- will be in Asheville on Wednesday, Febru- chanical, computer, and industrial en- used in the mash, mash temperature, mash cot and orange that persists into a delicate ary 23. He will be the keynote speaker gineering. It focuses on the precision time, boil start and finish volumes with boil- spicy finish. Also, they have “tweaked” the for an educational event sponsored by the control of mechanical and machine over detection, flow between vessels, and Rye Hopper and Wee Heavy-er recipes. Put North Carolina Brewers Guild in partner- systems, for example, robots, engine- hop addition times. a visit to the French Broad on your itineray. ship with the Asheville Brewer’s Alliance. fuel systems, autonomous aerospace I attended Team-Beerbot’s funding and If you enjoy beer, food, music and The meeting will be held in the eve- vehicles, stair-climbing wheelchairs, final presentations. The Team took an idea bargains, attend the Mountain Medley ning at the Highland Brewing Company. garage door openers, and alternative that started with a robot that could make CD release party at Highland Brewing on Tickets are free to Brewer’s Guild and Al- power generation systems. beer to the reality of an appliance that does. Saturday, February 5. For the $10 admis- Continued on next page
24 February 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE restaurants & wine Empty Vessels, Friends Lost, Remembering Good Times - PLUS, AN ASHEVILLE MARDI GRAS UPDATE
BY MICHAEL PARKER Da Svedanya, Vadim Bora reminders of good times had, and also, at The passing of Asheville artist Vadim that age, elements of the competition that February 2011 Bora continues to be a heavy-heart matter suggests that he with the most bottles has Goodbye, Flying Frog Events at the Weinhaus for those who knew him. He was among the had better times than you. After a fifteen-year run, Chef Vijay very best of the creative talent that walked (Wine collectors and enthusiasts are to Shastri and the Shastri family closed the Tuesday, February 22 Asheville’s downtown sidewalks. He never be given something of a pass on empty bottle Flying Frog Café, both the fine dining Vincenzo’s Italian restaurant will serve failed at giving a pleasant hello and sincere, collecting, by the way. “Dead soldiers” are downstairs and the bar and sidewalk café a multi course dinner accompanied by attentive smile. more like trophies.) as well. As with many closings, there are fine wines designed to match the meal, a There was something One of my three always multiple factors, and as the restaurant wonderful way to chase away the winter to him, not just what his favorite paintings in all business goes in Asheville, this is yet another blues. The time is 7 p.m. The cost is $60 lines, curves, and colors the world is a scene fea- reminder to believe not one damn thing you all inclusive. Please call the Weinhaus for reservations at (828) 254-6453. said about his mind and turing French aristocrats hear in local restaurant business gossip. The soul, or what Russian feasting on oysters and economy has been very hard on extra special Friday, February 25 sense and spice powered white wine. “The Oyster fine dining, particularly on white tablecloth Friday night flights at the Weinhaus will his hand and colored his Lunch” was painted in restaurants. The Frog is no exception. images. His consistent 1734 by Jean Francois de present a tasting of “Pinot Noirs from The Shastris were pioneers in the Ashe- Around the World.” The price is $10 for politeness underscored a Troy. ville dining scene. They had a truly indepen- a tasting and light hors d’ouvres. Time is sound and brilliant mind. The floor of the dent and unique approach to menu creation. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Held at the Weinhaus, 86 In my possession and scene is littered with The Oyster Lunch, 1734 The mixed heritage of the family (Eastern Patton, Ave. Asheville. pride, a painting by Bora by Jean François de Troy baskets overturned, spent European and Indian) was represented on of a tray of empty bottles oyster shells and empty the menu, to the delight, and sometimes to The Weinhaus, 86 Patton Avenue and used wine glasses. The title is “After the bottles. Red-faced, effete, elite men are the confusion, of customers. Ashevillians Asheville, NC (828) 254-6453 Party,” and I specifically remember my first partying hard. In their self-consciously fancy were often at a loss for the words to describe glance, it giving me a visual echo of one of (ridiculous) attire they have managed to the Frog’s continental and Indian and Ger- my favorite real-life sights: dirty glasses - hold on to their napkins, the only remaining man menu. I always thought it made sense. evidence of a good time had the night before evidence that the men actually have some It was a most interesting menu and reflected Asheville Mardi Gras with good friends and good wine. manners, manners that will be certainly not the mixed heritage of the family, presented and the Grand Krewe I realized the pleasure of this sight a few recovered until a later scene and after a day’s with skill and flavors that no other kitchen years before, after I hosted my first super- rest. in the region offered. Tune in to the Facebook page for Asheville sized dinner party. I requested that all glasses Being the dandies that they were, it is I must finish with a metaphorical raised Mardi Gras and the to-be-scheduled events be left on the table. They were rather nice, all clear in the “The Oyster Lunch” that the glass to one of the best chefs and most of the Grand Krewe, the krewe for wine hoity-toity Riedel and Waterford and all that, men had no compunction or concern being generous guys I know. While Vijay Shastri’s drinkers. The parade marches on March 6, and because guests are often under the delu- recorded in a giant painting as they aban- future work is unannounced, I look forward Bacchus Sunday, downtown at 3 p.m. sion that they are being helpful by piling ev- doned their etiquette. If the evidence shows to it when the time is right for it to be done. The Grand Krewe will be announcing: ery dirty thing in your kitchen sink, I wanted that they had what constituted a good, great, The now-vacant space in the ground- to avoid the risk of broken glasses. The next or wild time, it is the same mentality that level corner of the Haywood Park Hotel will • an event at the Wine Studio of Asheville morning, the sight of 50 dirty glasses on the says “he who dies with the most toys wins.” surely not be vacant for long. Those of you • the Running of the Winos, from wine bar dining table delighted me to the max. That is why we like images of dirty who think we have lost one of our favorite to wine bar, in downtown Asheville Likewise, the sight of spent, empty glasses. It’s why I paid a very fair price for bars should have confidence that someone • pre-parade gathering for March 6 bottles seems to be a universal fascination Bora’s “After the Party” and why every man worthy will take charge. I anticipate my that begins for many people right around in that painting would have paid top franc warm weather seat in the best people-watch- Anyone who wants to join the Grand Krewe their coming of legal drinking age. A decora- for “The Oyster Lunch” or even a simple ing perch in Asheville. is welcome. Find us on Facebook by search- tive motif that really should end by the end image of a soiled Sèvres saucer. ing for “Grand Krewe, Dionysiaque.” of college, this is the hoarding of alcoholic beverage bottles and their proud display atop refrigerators and cabinets. In part, they are Great values & styles ‘Brew News’ cont’d from pg. 24 liance members but are $25 for the general FREE Wine Tastings on Saturdays public. Ticket price includes a buffet-style barbecue dinner and two drink tickets for from 2 to 5 p.m. Highland pints. Don’t miss this opportuni- Tasting wine is not only fun, but it presents a chance to learn about ty to meet an icon in the brewing industry. wine and what it is about a particular wine that you like, or don't like. You can sip while you shop. Find some new favorites — try it before you buy it. We will usually have a few whites and a few For eight years, Joe Zinich reds open, with the occassional guest speaker. Please stop by! has been taking a self- www.theAshevilleWineGuy.com guided, high-intensity tour of the Asheville beer scene. ~ ~ 555 Merrimon Ave. Contact him at: jzinich@ Wine Retail Tastings Wine Classes bellsouth.net. Great wines for any occasion and budget. (828) 254-6500
Vol. 14, No. 6 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — February 2011 25 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE poetry & poets C r P v ’s P ry: A T l Tw Tr l trs ntil relatively recently, Cesare three years). In his introductory essay, Pavese (1908-1950) was Arrowsmith also traced the influence BY TED OLSON primarily remembered as a on Pavese — who translated into Ital- novelist, and indeed he wrote ian a number of English-language lit- It is difficult to include in this some of the finest novels pro- erary classsics — of a range of English short column an adequate example Uduced during and immediately after and American authors. of Pavese’s poetry because his poems the short reign of Fascism in Italy. Arrowsmith’s powerful transla- tend to be lengthier than typical mod- Such Pavese novels as The Moon tions attracted the attention of Ameri- ern lyric poems and often involve nar- and the Bonfires (1950) exposed the can readers to Pavese’s poetry, yet Hard rative elements that make little sense difficulties of being a “regional” writer Labor would eventually fall out-of- when quoted out of context. Here’s in a nation whose leaders were at- print. Another translator, Geoffrey the entirety of one minor Pavese tempting to suppress regional identity Brock, would fill the void by offering poem, “Sketch of a Landscape,” taken and individual dignity to create a more new translations of Pavese’s poetry. from Brock’s book (page 281): centralized, nationalistic society. Pavese’s narratives were charac- terized by a specific and vivid sense of The pigs and the girls with sacks on their heads place (Turin and the countryside near walk through the streets: droplets of rain that city), and his use of language was are whipped by the wind as they fall. Each puddle, colloquial yet precise. As a measure with its pale blue-gray face, smiles at the clouds. of the power and universality of his In the piazza the people can’t seem to argue, writing, most of Pavese’s novels are they accommodate everyone, and goats and hogs, available today in English translations along the town walls. Where mortar has crumbled, (alas, his remarkable nonfiction work there rises the solid flowering mass of a tree. Dialogues with Leuco and many of his Cesare Pavese short stories are not currently in-print in English-language editions). Significantly, the literary qualities Unlike Arrowsmith, who focused Granted that Brock’s Pavese that infused Pavese’s novels were first exclusively on Lavorare stanca, Brock volume received several prestigious lit- realized in poems composed during translated all of Pavese’s poetry, includ- erary awards for excellence in transla- the mid-1930s, such as his master- ing both the 1936 and 1943 editions of tion, I find that when wishing to read ful narrative poem “South Seas.” Lavorare stanca (which Brock retitles Pavese’s poetry, I — as one who has The availability of Pavese’s poetry as Work’s Tiring) as well as Pavese’s marveled for years at Arrowsmith’s in English can be traced to William later poetry (including the important passionate take on Lavorare stanca Arrowsmith’s 1976 translation of sequence of poems “Death Will Come — invariably locate my weathered the Italian author’s debut volume of and Will Have Your Eyes”). copy of that earlier book. poems, Lavorare stanca (published in Brock’s interpretations of Pavese Yet Brock should be applauded 1936, with an expanded edition issued — published as Disaffections: Com- for recreating the distinctively struc- in 1943). plete Poems 1930-1950 (Copper Can- tured prosody of Pavese’s original Translated by Arrowsmith as yon Press, 2002) — complemented Italian poems in accurate English- Hard Labor, this book featured Pa- rather than imitated Arrowsmith’s language versions. English-speaking vese’s hypnotic, mysterious story-po- translations. Brock confronted the poetry aficionados should be grateful ems, transformed by Arrowsmith into relationship of his translations to to Brock for making all of Pavese’s credible English-language versions Arrowsmith’s texts: poems available within one beautifully that were at the same time understated “One of the strengths of the Ar- designed and affordable edition. and luminous. Another attribute of rowsmith versions is that they the book was its introductory essay, emerge into English with an Ted Olson is the author in which Arrowsmith postulated that undeniable energy and sensibil- Pavese’s tragic worldview was an of such books as ity of their own. For my taste, Breathing in Darkness: inevitable outcome of his struggles to such translations are nearly always survive in an increasingly repressive Poems (Wind preferable to blandly literal ver- Publications, 2006) society (the Italian authorities, citing sions, which in their loyalty to the and Blue Ridge Folklife Pavese’s skeptical attitude toward Fas- letter often betray the spirit. Still, (University Press of cism, confined the author to exile for Arrowsmith’s versions sometimes Mississippi, 1998) and betray the spirit of the poems in he is the editor of numerous books, other ways. They are, for ex- including CrossRoads: A Southern Culture Annual (Mercer University ample, chattier and less measured Poetry Press, 2009). His experiences as (in all senses of that word) than a poet and musician are discussed Contest Pavese’s original poems, whose on www.windpub.com/books/ Winners tight-lipped rhythm becomes an breathingindarkness.htm. integral part of the experience of Winning poems reading them, as it apparently was Poets who would like for their poetry to be will be published of the experience of writing them. considered for a future column may send in the March 2011 I have felt obligated, in my trans- their books and manuscripts to Ted Olson, issue of Rapid lations, to try to create a similar ETSU, Box 70400, Johnson City, TN River Magazine. rhythmic experience.” 37614. Please include contact information and a SASE with submissions.
26 February 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE authors ~ books ~ readings
Discussion and Booksigning with ibility, infatuation, fidelity, family Eat Pray Love Author Elizabeth Gilbert tradition, social expectations, divorce risks, and humbling re- t the end of her bestsell- which, after unex- sponsibilities. Gilbert’s memoir is ing memoir Eat, Pray, pectedly detaining ultimately a clear-eyed celebration Love, Elizabeth Gilbert Felipe at an Ameri- of love with all the complexity and We host numerous Readings, fell in love with Felipe, a can border crossing, consequence that real love, in the FEBRUARY Bookclubs, as well as Poetrio! ABrazilian-born man of Australian gave the couple a PARTIAL LISTING More events posted online. real world, actually entails. citizenship who’d been living in choice: they could February 3 at 7 p.m. LEANNA SAIN Indonesia when they met. either get married, presents her new book Magnolia Blossoms. Resettling in America, the or Felipe would couple swore eternal fidelity to never be allowed to enter the February 4 at 7 p.m. HANNAH PITTARD IF Elizabeth Gilbert author discuss The Fates Will Find Their Way. each other, but also swore to country again. of Committed: A Love never, ever, under any circum- Having been effectively YOU Story. Discussion and February 10 at 7 p.m. WAYNE CALDWELL GO reads from his new book Requiem by Fire. stances get legally married. Elizabeth Gilbert sentenced to wed, Gilbert booksigning, Saturday, (Both were survivors of previous tackled her fears of marriage by February 5, beginning at 3 February 11 at 7 p.m. SEBASTIAN divorces. Enough said.) delving into this topic completely — try- p.m. in Lipinsky Hall, UNC-Asheville MATTHEWS reads from New Hope for the But providence intervened one day in ing with all her might to discover through Campus, One University Heights. Tickets Dead: Uncollected William Matthews. the form of the United States government, historical research, interviews, and much are available only at Malaprop’s Bookstore/ February 12 at 3 p.m. BUD AND personal reflection what this stubbornly Cafe, 55 Haywood Street in Asheville. MASSIMILLA HARRIS discuss their book, enduring old institution actually is. One ticket is just $5 with the purchase of The Art of Love, The Craft of Relationship. Told with Gilbert’s trademark wit, one copy of Elizabeth Gilbert’s book. Total February 15 at 6 p.m. Teacher intelligence and compassion, Commit- cost of book/ticket package is $22.24. Seating Appreciation Night – lots of giveaways! UNC-A FACULTY ted: A Love Story attempts to “turn on all is limited. Please order online at www. the lights” when it comes to matrimony, malaprops.com, call (828) 254-6734, 1-800- February 17 at 7 p.m. DOUGLAS HUNTER BOOK TALK SERIES reads from Gullah, Geechees, and Grits. frankly examining questions of compat- 441-9829, or stop by the store. ith faculty representing February 18 at 7 p.m. DAVID HALPERIN departments from Religious presents Journal of a UFO Investigator. W Studies to Management and February 19 at 3 p.m. Reading by FAITH Accountancy, the Brown Bag Book New York Times Bestselling Local Author HOLSAERT and DR. GWEN PATTON, from Talk series offers a chance to hear the anthology Hands on the Freedom Plow. readings from authors’ books and ar- Sarah Addison Allen February 19 at 7 p.m. EILEEN MYLES reads ticles. The one-hour lectures are held from her new book Inferno: A Poet’s Novel. at 12:30 p.m. in Ramsey Library. The Trade Paperback Release Party February 20 at 5 p.m. RON RASH, author events are free and open to the public. of Serena, reads from Burning Bright. February 8 arah Addison Allen burst onto the lit- With an irresist- erary scene with her New York Times ible combination February 21 at 7 p.m. Glenis Redmond Laura Hope-Gill, Poet Laureate of the and Peggy Lloyd read poems to celebrate Blue Ridge Parkway and instructor bestselling debut novel, Garden Spells, of magical realism CHRISTINE LASSITER. which was a BookSense pick, a Barnes and spellbinding in UNC Asheville’s Great Smokies February 23 at 7 p.m. ERIC MYERS reads Writing Program, will present a po- S& Noble Recommends selection and storytelling, Allen from Elements & Evolution. etry reading and slideshow from “The the winner of the Southern Independent transports readers Soul Tree: Poems and Photographs Booksellers Association’s Award for Fiction. to Mullaby, North February 24 at 7 p.m. LISA NAPOLI Her acclaimed follow-up, The Sugar Carolina, a town presents Radio Shangri-la: What I Learned of the Southern Appalachians,” in the in Bhutan, the Happiest Kingdom on Earth. Whitman Room. Queen, was praised for being “impossible where wallpaper to put down” can change its pat- February 27 at 3 p.m. PAMELA March 1 by Booklist and tern, mysterious SCHOENEWALDT reads from her debut Katherine Zubko, assistant profes- “like a dessert” lights streak across novel, When We Were Strangers. sor of Religious Studies, will discuss by Entertain- the night sky, and the sweet March 3 at 7 p.m. Small Batch Baking For her work, “Inside the Indian Busi- ment Weekly. smell of hickory smoked barbeque lingers Chocolate Lovers with DEBBY MAUGANS. ness Mind: A Tactical Guide for Last year, in the air. It is here that Emily Benedict March 4 at 7 p.m. JENNIFER PHARR DAVIS Managers,” in the Special Collections Allen returned has come to solve the riddle surround- reads from Becoming Odyssa. Reading Room. Zubko has conducted with The Girl ing her mother’s death, but soon discovers research as a Fulbright scholar in Who Chased that mysteries aren’t solved in Mullaby India and has published articles on The Moon an — they’re a way of life. 55 Haywood St. performance, ritual, and culture. enchanting tale Brimming with warmth, wit and a 828-254-6734 • 800-441-9829 of one young sprinkling of magic, The Girl Who Chased Monday-Saturday 9AM to 9PM March 24 woman who is The Moon is a spellbinding tale of friend- Sunday 9AM to 7PM Laurel Taylor, Classics lecturer, will about to un- ship, love — and the enchanting possibilities present “The Project of 100 Roman Sarah Addison Allen cover the long of every new day. Farms,” in the Special Collections held secrets of Reading Room. The article includes her quirky, southern town, which will now IF YOU GO: To celebrate the paperback information on UNC Asheville’s be published for the first time as a Bantam release, Allen will be giving a talk and involvement in the excavation of a Trade Paperback on February 8, 2011. signing copies of the book at Malaprop’s Roman farmhouse in Lucca, Italy. The Girl Who Chased The Moon Bookstore on Wednesday, February 9 at showcases Sarah Addison Allen’s unique 7 p.m. Malaprop’s Bookstore/Cafe, 55 IF YOU GO: For more information talent for bringing to life the charms and Haywood Street in Asheville. For more call UNC Asheville’s Ramsey Library eccentricities of the south and the colorful information phone (828) 254-6734 or visit at (828) 251-6645. people who live there. www.malaprops.com.
Vol. 14, No. 6 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — February 2011 27 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE healthy lifestyles
“Exercising? On My Knees?” BY MAX HAMMONDS, MD
ike hobbled out to the curb joint like the physical therapist said.” movin’ it. And guess what, it was get- to get his newspaper. He Robert patted his left hip in reassur- ting tighter and more painful. I was was careful how he bent ance. takin’ more and more pain meds. So over. He didn’t want to “Lubricatin’ the hip?” I went to see my doctor and he said, aggravate the pain in his “Yeah. The PT guy said that the ‘Get off the couch and walk – care- Mleft knee. As he carefully raised up, out lining of my hip joint needs to squeeze fully.’ Then he sent me to the physical of the corner of his eye he saw Robert out more fluid into my joint, like therapist and he taught me how to walking – or was he running? – down a sponge. The fluid keeps my joint walk carefully and gently. But he said the sidewalk towards him. lubricated, keeps down the wear and to walk as well. So I’m walkin’ – not “Robert, where you goin’? to a tear, keeps things loosened up, too.” runnin’ – walkin’. fire?” “Keeps things loosened up? But “Know what? My hip’s gettin’ “Nope. Just exercising,” Robert I thought . . . I mean the doctor told loose again – not so tight any more huffed as he approached his friend. me . . .” Mike was searching his mind. – and the pain is less. I don’t have to Mike couldn’t believe what he What had the doctor told him 18 take so much pain medicine – and.” was hearing. He knew Robert had months ago? Robert jokingly poked Mike in the bad osteoarthritis in his left hip, bad “Buddy, you need to get back and chest with his forefinger. “And – Doc enough to be thinking about hip see your doctor again,” Robert said says I may not have to have a total hip replacement surgery. “What? On that with a grin. “I’ll bet the doc didn’t say replacement – at least not right now. bad hip? Are you supposed to be exer- to lay around like a couch potato.” How’s them apples?” cising with arthritis?” “No-o-o-o.” Now Mike was “You think I should be exercis- “Yep. Doctor’s orders.” Rob- looking for an excuse. ing my knee – like that?” Mike wasn’t ert paused in front of his friend and “In fact, I’ll bet the doc said to quite convinced. caught his breath. move your knee – it’s you left knee, “Buddy, what you don’t use, you “But I thought you weren’t sup- right?” lose. And I don’t plan on losing my posed to exercise if you had arthritis. Mike nodded in agreement. “But hip joint, least not ‘til I have to.” Rob- Bad for the joint, you know. Bone it hurts when I move it like you’re ert slapped his friend on the shoulder. rubbing on bone and all of that.” Mike doing.” “Well, I’m goin’ to get back to doctor’s rubbed his forehead, trying to under- “I’ll bet the doc said to exercise orders,” he said as he stepped out and stand. “Are you sure that’s what the your knee gently – and gradually strode down the sidewalk. doctor said – go out and run like the increase your exercise, didn’t he?” “And I’m goin’ to see my doc dogs were after you?” Robert grinned sheepishly. “Fact is, I – see what he says. I don’t want to lose “Do you see me running?” Robert was doin’ what you’re doin’ – takin’ my knee either,” Mike called after him asked smartly. “No. Just walking at a my pain medicines and nursing my as he smacked himself on his bad knee good pace. Just lubricatin’ the ole hip hip along, sitting in a chair, hardly and hobbled back into the house.
ASAP’s Get Local Program DISCOVER WHAT’S IN SEASON
ooking for signs of spring after BY MAGGIE CRAMER all the snow? Look no further than your neighborhood gro- cery store’s shelves. two of the featured products in the Local honey, carefully Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Lcollected during the warmer days of Project’s (ASAP) Get Local initiative. spring and summer, abounds this time A year-round component of ASAP’s of year — whether it’s from mountain Local Food Campaign, Get Local wildflowers or the Sourwood tree. brings together farmers, chefs, and Sourwood honey is a regional specialty community members in celebration area honey and sorghum producers in produced predominately in the Blue of a food or foods available at tailgate ASAP’s Local Food Guide, online at Ridge Mountains. The taste is often markets, groceries, and restaurants. buyappalachian.org. described as rich and buttery, mak- Keep your eyes out for both farm ing it sought after by honey lovers products on eatery menus. Pick up About Appalachian Sustainable everywhere. your own sweet stuff at area groceries, Agriculture Project (ASAP) And it gets even sweeter. Local from Earth Fare to Ingles, as well as ASAP’s mission is to help local sorghum syrup or sorghum molasses, direct from the farm. farms thrive, link farmers to markets another distinctively regional farm Find a complete list of area Get and supporters, and build healthy product, can also be found now. But Local restaurants and more informa- communities through connections don’t get it confused with blackstrap tion about the initiative visit www. to local food. To learn more about molasses, a byproduct of the sugar asapconnections.org. There, you can ASAP’s work in the region, visit refining process. Sorghum molasses is also download a Get Local school asapconnections.org, or call (828) 236- made from 100 percent sorghum cane calendar. From now until March, par- 1282. Search their online Local Food juice and has a lighter flavor. ticipating schools are highlighting local Guide at buyappalachian.org. Local honey and sorghum are apples. Search for the more than 100
28 February 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE artful living
Needing we live in the mind our society condi- narcissistic desires of an individual driven by tions into us, our egoic (what Bud- negative emotions from one perceived need dhists call “little”) mind, trapped in to the next, but rather visions of what can be needing for its fulfillment some fantasy in an enlightened human society. “We need one more thing to make us happy. One thing idea of a perfect self - finding fantasy leads to the next, perpetuated by our desire to have perfection in a fantasy world. final satisfaction. But the next experience feels uneasy, This mind is extremely lim- ited in its perceptive abilities, and “The purpose of Buddhism and we still need one more thing… The desire to feel tends to focus on what is lack- is to study ourselves and satisfied is a continual process that drives our lives, ing, rather than the totality and to forget ourselves. When and the end result is suffering… it’s just what ends up potentiality of what is present. This is the world of samsara, we forget ourselves, we happening when we are driven by negative emotions. suffering. actually are the true ~ Sakyong Mipham (Turning the Mind into an Ally) However, Bud- activity of the big existence, dhism teaches that there is also the macro- or reality itself. When we world of the Big Mind, realize this fact, there is no of our Being-self, in problem whatsoever in this hat do we really need? That harmony with the simple question could well be BY BILL WALZ Universe realizing world, and we can enjoy an important key to happiness that there is no our life.” and wisdom. And beyond the Nature, nor is it an separate self. question of what do we really enlightened relation- There is always ~ Shunryu Suzuki (1904-71) Wneed is the more germane question: Why ship to our unique human and only the Universe ex- are our needs so endless? What are all these capacity to relate to life with abstracting pressing itself in its fullness through this wants that, at a deep psychological level, be- intelligence. form we experience as our self-in-the-giv- come needs? Sakyong Mipham, the Tibetan/ Happiness is a mental state. It occurs en-moment, all interconnected and perfect Bill Walz teaches meditation American meditation teacher gives a very in the mind. Nothing outside of ourselves just as it is. Nothing is needed because to and mindfulness at UNCA good answer when he says, “it’s just what is the source of our happiness, rather our need is to be separate from the whole of and public forums, and happens when we are driven by negative mind deciding it is happy with what is hap- what is, and there is no separation. This is is a private-practice emotion.” – as we certainly are, either very pening is the source of our happiness. What the mind of enlightenment, and this is the meditation teacher and blatantly or subtly, much of our waking lives. is unfortunate is that we don’t realize that mind into which Buddhist teaching and life-coach for individuals in We want things to be better; we want we have the capacity to cultivate the mental meditation can open us. mindfulness, personal growth more for ourselves than life is giving. We state of happiness (more accurately, well-be- Imagine the total freedom, the total lib- and consciousness. He holds a weekly have an emotional uneasiness as to whether ing) as our natural state in a manner that can eration when we realize that at an ultimate meditation class, Mondays, 7 p.m., at the we are enough, and so have a rather un- be largely independent of the circumstances dimension always available to us, nothing Friends Meeting House, 227 Edgewood. limited sense of needing more, and for our of our lives. Ultimate happiness (non-suf- more is needed, that this moment, exactly as He will present a Meditation Intensive, situation to be better. And when things are fering) is the result of our embrace of every it is, is perfect, exactly as it is. This is what in “Awakening into our Full Human Potential” the way we want them to be, we want them moment just the way it is. the Shambala tradition of Sakyong Mipham on Sunday, February 13, from 2 to 4 to stay that way – but they don’t, they can’t. is called Shamatha – peaceful abiding. p.m. at the Black Mountain Unitarian Everything changes, but what we want is un- This moment, Within us all is the ability to abide peace- Universalist Church, 500 Montreat Rd. in changing happiness - without even knowing fully in the present moment exactly as it is, Black Mountain, (828) 669-8050. what that means. So, we experience anxi- what is lacking? not needing anything to be different to quell Info on classes, talks, personal growth and ety, anger, jealousy, worry, sadness, despair our negative emotions, not needing to get to healing instruction, or phone consultations – negative emotions that drive us. One of the great Zen lessons – a Koan the next moment to quiet the restless little at (828) 258-3241, e-mail healing@ There are many extrapolations of Bud- from the 9th Century Chinese Zen master mind of ego questing for fulfillment of its billwalz.com. Visit www.billwalz.com. dhism’s Four Noble Truths on the nature Rinzai – asks us, “This moment, what is fantasy identity in a fantasy world. Right here. of suffering, but a very useful variation is lacking?” And when we are unhappy, we This moment, nothing lacking. This is en- that we suffer because, whether we express believe the answer to be that what is lack- lightenment. This is the heart of Buddhism. it as a need or a want, we often experience ing is what we think we need to make the Does this mean to live passively? No that we need things to be different from the moment more fulfilling, satisfying, safe, or – it means to do what needs to be done to way they are in order to control our negative whatever qualifier we have in our mind. support and protect our lives and all life. It emotions. Again, this can be on very blatant The truth is that when we are fully also means to bring forth our efforts in the or subtle levels, and taking that extrapola- present in any moment in our natural mind, service of evolving an ever more conscious, tion to the teaching’s resolution, the fourth it is as contemporary Zen master Thich compassionate and loving human society, of the Truths, we could say that the way Nhat Hanh tells us, “This moment is a per- but none of it from negative emotion. out of negative emotional suffering is to not fect moment, this moment is my refuge.” As Asian philosophy expert Alan Watts need for things to be different from the way Refuge from what? From the suffering, the wrote: “Everything is as it can be.” And they are in order for us to be OK. unsatisfactoriness of having the moment this moment is exactly as it can be as the “Well, of course,” you say. When this being different than what in our minds we platform for the next moment in the very moment is the way I want it to be, I am fine, think we need it to be. big picture. When we embrace what is, we I am happy, and when it is not the way I We live in the subtle and not-so-subtle can become courageous co-authors with the want it to be, I am not fine and happy. Isn’t experience of believing our fulfillment is Universe of what will be. that the natural way of things? But herein not in this moment just as it is, but in some Nothing is fixed and permanent. Ev- lies our problem. Our well-being is then next moment that will be exactly the way we erything is both being and becoming. What dependent on the circumstances of our lives need for it to be to experience perfect happi- is, is. And what will pass, will pass. And as we interpret them in our minds. This ness. Buddhism teaches of the thickness and what will be, will be. And our fantasies do is neither natural – meaning the way of multidimensionality of existence. Mostly, not have to be the impotent protests or the
Vol. 14, No. 6 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — February 2011 29 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE performance
New York’s Award-Winning Doug Varone and Dancers THRILLING, MESMERIZING DANCE
ince its founding almost 25 BY JOHN ELLIS years ago, Doug Varone and Dancers has commanded attention for its expansive vi- in which he works. The Washington Post remarks, “An exceptionally fluent sion, versatility, and technical “Varone’s ability to S dancemaker … Varone puts the beat- prowess. From the smallest gesture to full-throttle burst of movement, Doug ing heart at the center of the work.” convey depths of Varone’s work takes the breath away, For its Asheville performances, emotion through highly making essential connections within Doug Varone and Dancers performs charged, physically the complexity of the human spirit. three works. Lux, with music by Philip exciting choreography The Boston Herald says, “There’s Glass, begins with meditative, resilient has made him a rarity more information in one minute of exploration of the space around the dance by Doug Varone than most cho- dancers, progressing towards opti- among his generation.” reographers manage to squeeze into mism as a projected moon slowly rises ~The New York Times far lengthier works,” and The Village on the backdrop. Voice calls it “thrilling, mesmerizing Lux is all about freedom, loose work.” In celebration of its 25th year, and sweeping in a spirit of exultation. for ticket holders, these discussions the Company is touring and recon- In Boats Leaving, Varone creates con- add to attendees’ understanding and structing major dances from past versation in the dancers’ movements enjoyment of the performance by repertory as well as recent new works and moves the conversation into new providing professional insight and and premieres as part of the 2010/2011 emotionally treacherous waters, taking background on the company, per- Mainstage Dance Series at Diana the audience inside the darkness of formers, and danceworks. Wortham Theatre. communities unraveling. The Diana Wortham Theatre’s Award-winning choreographer Stillness is powerful in Boats 2010/2011 Mainstage Dance Series and artistic director Doug Varone, Leaving, like silence in an awkward, concludes on April 5 and 6, 2011 along with his dancers and designers, intense, or deep moment. The com- with the music and dance of Viver have been honored with 11 “Bessies” pany concludes with excerpts from its Brasil, featuring a dazzling program — New York Dance and Performance October 2010 premier, Chapters from of exhilarating movement, stun- Awards. Varone not only works as a Broken Novel – a dance of intercon- ning costumes, pulsating percussion, a passionate educator and articulate nected short stories drawn from and and voice, taking the audience on advocate for dance, but also lends his inspired by Varone’s journal of photos, an inspiring Afro-Brazilian cultural talents to the worlds of theater, opera, illustrations, snippets of overheard journey. conversations and quotes. Each “chap- film, television and fashion. Theatre for Young Audiences By any measure, his work is ter” is specific in its inspiration but extraordinary for its emotional range, revels in a multiplicity of meanings. In addition to its evening kinetic breadth and the many arenas Pre-show discussions are held at performances, Doug Varone and 7 p.m. in The Forum at Pack Place Dancers presents a performance preceding the Doug Varone and Danc- for students and teachers as part of ers’ performances both evenings. Free the Diana Wortham Theatre Young Audience Series, Thursday, February 10 at 10 a.m.
IF Doug Varone and Dancers, part of YOU the Mainstage Dance GO Series. Performances on Wednesday and Thursday, February 9 and 10 beginning at 8 p.m. Diana Wortham Theatre at Pack Place. Tickes: Regular $35; Seniors $33; Students $30. Student Rush day-of-the-show (with valid ID) $10. Info/Tickets: call the Box Office (828) 257-4530, or visit www.dwtheatre.com
Doug Varone and Dancers For more information on Photo: Phil Knott Doug Varone and Dancers visit www.dougvaroneanddancers.org
30 February 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE fine art news
Arts 2 People Announces the Opening of Artists Wanted for 2011 The Artist Bele Chere Festival The City of Asheville Parks, Resource Center Recreation and Cultural Arts Depart- ment is now accepting applications rts 2 People, an Asheville-based BY KITTY LOVE for arts and crafts exhibitors in all non-profit devoted to promoting mediums for the 33rd annual Bele the role of the arts as an integral Chere Festival being held Friday, July part of our culture , announces the of peers, one of the most 29 through Sunday, July 31, 2011. All institution of an Artist Resource essential yet overlooked A pathways to success. applications must be postmarked by Center (ARC). Friday, March 4, 2011. In addition The ARC will provide programmatic As the Center grows, to the application form, artists must assistance to art-centric entrepreneurs in- ARC will develop an submit photographs of their work and vested in diversifying their business man- online search engine the appropriate application fee. agement skills and enhance their ability to interface providing the All applications received will be benefit from the current revitalization and community at large digital juried by a panel of local arts pro- economic development in downtown Ashe- access to a plethora of re- A career center where artist fessionals. More than 100 quality ville. The Artist Resource Center will teach sources including: means entrepreneurs can hone business handmade artists will be accepted and artists the business skills necessary to make for creative professionals management skills. eligible for awards. their creative endeavors economically viable to link to resources and Applications and additional and sustainable. each other, a virtual mar- information are available at www. Essentially a career center where artist ketplace where artists can broker their work, proposal form, please visit arts2people.org or belecherefestival.com or by contact- entrepreneurs can hone business manage- creative services, or studio spaces, as well as email [email protected]. ing Kristin Perez at (828) 259-5773 ment and other practical skills, the ARC will listings of available resources for production. or [email protected]. For more feature workshops and classes specifically The potential of this comprehensive information call (828) 259-5800 or geared toward fostering the growth of local database will continue to unfold as the for more information visit visit www.belecherefestival.com. creative professionals. In an economic envi- ARC’s impact on the community deems its www.arts2people.org ronment where it is often difficult for small necessity. As artists gain success through the ARC’s programming, Arts 2 People will continue to grow the program to match the needs of the commu- nity. “If our local artist- entrepreneurs manage to build businesses and take advantage of the oppor- tunities that exist here, it will benefit everyone as it solidifies economic success and increases the culture of creativity we already business owners to invest in the equipment enjoy,” says Love. “What the ARC means needed to evolve, the ARC will provide ac- for the economy of Asheville, a city with cess to the equipment, training, and support a brisk tourist economy based in no small that they require to make the next step. part on its thriving arts scene, should not be “The ARC will be of pivotal importance underestimated”. for Asheville’s aspiring creative profession- In collaboration with the YMI Cultural als and the local economy,” says Kitty Love, Center, Arts 2 People will house the ARC Executive Director of Arts2People. Asheville in one of the historic auxilliary storefronts thrives off of its art scene, and the ARC of- on Market St. In an effort to work in unison Going Beyond Racism fers tools to help facilitate and nurture artists with the Downtown Master Plan Strategy in business. This will create a symbiotic 1 Initiatives that call for the “cultivation of Through Understanding & Respect relationship between cultural creatives and strong links between the cultural district and the greater community.” the Eagle/Market St. district”, Arts 2 People Course offerings at the ARC will is pleased to have the opportunity to support Join us for compelling dialogue, include classes on grant-writing, web and facilitate this economically strategic in- community building, and a call to action. marketing, bookkeeping with an extensive vestment for the future of all of Downtown curriculum designed to give students a Asheville and the amazing creatives that strategic approach to launching a productive make this city unique. career. Access to state-of-the-art equipment, The Performance Center, planned for NEXT NINE WEEK SESSION software, and peripherals will be available to nearby, is supportive and will be an active Mondays from 7-9 pm at MAHEC, 501 Biltmore Avenue members and students to utilize for the pro- partner of the ARC. The target launch date motion and development of their business- for the ARC is set for mid-February and January 24 - March 21, 2011 es. While classes and equipment are essential Arts2People is currently seeking Instruc- tools, the ARC also provides a means for tors to fulfill all curriculum coursework. Register online at www.buildingbridges-asheville.org artists to connect with a supportive network For more information, or to submit a class 5HJLVWUDWLRQ)HHFor more information call 828-777-4585
Vol. 14, No. 6 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — February 2011 31 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE what to do guide ™
Thursday, Ave. 3 - 5:30 pm. $6. Dances of Jane Nancy Mac- February 3 Concerts at St. Matthias Austen’s Pride And Prejudice and Donald’s Work. PAINTERS WANTED Larry Keel other Austen novel film adaptations. Healing Arts In- In February, the concerts at St. Caller; live music. www.oldfarmers- stitute, 604 Yar- Looking for painters to open and Natural Matthias Church will include the ball.com; (828) 230-8449. borough Street, Bridge following: Hendersonville, a co-op art gallery in River Arts District or Downtown Flatpickin’ at February 6 – Kate Steinbeck February 9 & 10 NC 28739. (828) Pisgah Brewing. Doors open at 7 p.m., (flute) and friends (Classical Doug Varone and Dancers 713-6586. www. Asheville. Send email to: lichtyguitars.com [email protected] show begins at 8 p.m. Tickets: $10 ad- series) New York City-based Doug Varone vance, $13 at the door. Pisgah Brewing, and Dancers brings thrilling, mesmer- with your website or images 150 Eastside Drive in Black Mountain. February 13 – Kontiki Polynesian Sunday, February 13 Swing Band (Jazz series) izing of artwork. For more details phone (828) 669-0190 dance Valentine’s English Country Dance or visit www.pisgahbrewing.com. February 20 – Cantaria Men’s works to Asheville Arts Center, 308 Merimon Chorus Friday, February 4 Asheville. Ave. 3-5:30 pm; $6. Dances of Jane trolled method February 28 – Concert produc- Diana Austen’s Pride And Prejudice and for painting Al Junek Opening tion of Pirates of Penzance (solo- Wortham other Austen novel film adaptations. designs on their Reception ists, chorus and orchestra) Theatre Caller; live music. www.oldfarmers- unwoven warps. The exhibit, “Retro- at Pack ball.com; (828) 230-8449. Workshop fee All concerts are on Sundays and Place. spective 1990-2010”, begin at 3:00 p.m. There will be is $250, plus a will feature selected 8 p.m., Sunday, February 13 $20 supply fee. a free-will offering for the St. February paintings over the Matthias restoration fund. The Paint Your Heart Out Class is limited to 10 students. For 9 and 10, Photo: Phil Knott more information or to register, email last 20 years from church is located in Asheville just The Swannanoa Valley Fine Arts Gateway Mist, Al’s first venture into 2011. Tickets: Regular $35; Seniors [email protected] or call watercolor. off South Charlotte Street at Max League opens the 2011 schedule with the art world to pres- $33; Students $30; Student Rush Barb Butler at (803) 513-1814. Street on the hill across from the day-of-the-show (with valid ID) $10. an exhibit at the Sourwood Galley in ent. The Asheville Gallery of Art will Asheville Public Works Building Black Mountain, February 13 through host an opening reception for the artist Tickets/Info: (828) 257-4530 or online Saturday, February 19 (1 Dundee St.). at www.dwtheatre.com February 26, 2011. The opening recep- from 5 to 8 p.m. The public is cordially tion will be held on Sunday, February There’s a Dinosaur invited. The show will be on display 13 from from 2 to 4 p.m. For more in the Closet through Monday, February 28, 2011. Saturday, Friday, February 4 February 12 information visit www.svfal.org. A magical family The gallery is located at 16 College The Sister’s Body Provocative friendly, award-win- Street in downtown Asheville. Regular Sunday, February 13 ning puppet show by Suzanne Snyder and Judi Goloff, hours are Monday through Saturday, Constance Williams Coad Canada Puppets have been creating recycled art for 25 Meditation Intensive 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more informa- Gallery & Studios from Vancouver, years. Judi Goloff works in glass, and From 2 to 4 p.m. Presented by Bill tion, call (828) 251-5796 or visit www. opening reception Canada. Public performance begins Suzanne Snyder creates mixed media Walz, Rapid River Magazine con- ashevillegallery-of-art.com. from 11 a.m. to 4 at 11 at the Diana Wortham Theatre. works. Opening reception from 4 to 6 Constance sciousness columnist, meditation and Williams, p.m. Artists present For reservations call (828) 257-4530 or p.m. On display through February 27, mindfulness teacher, and a private- encaustic, Good work on the theme order online at www.dwtheatre.com. 2011. Gallery Hours: Monday through practice meditation teacher and life- Morning Series Body Provocative. On Tickets are $7 each. How to place an event/ Saturday, 11-6 p.m., Sunday 11-5 p.m. display through March 11, 2011. The coach for individuals in mindfulness, personal growth and consciousness. classified listing with Closed Tuesdays. Woolworth Walk, gallery is located at 9 Riverside Dr., in Tuesday, February 22 Rapid River Art Magazine 25 Haywood St. in Asheville. (828) Asheville’s River Arts District. Phone The afternoon will be spent exploring 254-9234. (828) 225-1762 for more information. and experiencing the full potential for a Dine to be Kind Any “free” event open to the public Open every day 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. meditation practice that can transform More than fifty can be listed at no charge up to 30 February 4 & 5 and evolve your life. area restaurants words. For all other events there is a Aquila Theatre Saturday, February 12 What is meditation and its purpose? will be contribut- $9.95 charge up to 30 words and 10 Company Frog Awareness Program How it can transform you and why it ing a portion of cents for each additional word. 160 opens the necessary consciousness for their day’s proceeds to benefit Animal word limit per event. The foremost February pulls frogs out of their hiding the evolutionary transformation of our Compassion Network’s long-running Sponsored listings (shown in producer of places to find mates and lay eggs in society. $10-$20 donation requested. low-income spay/neuter program and boxes) can be purchased for $12 touring classical woodland waters. Explore this ages For more details go to www.billwalz. its other lifesaving programs. For more theatre in the per column inch. Photo: Richard Termine old phenomenon and enjoy the winter com, phone (828) 258-3241, or e-mail information please call Pet Harmony at United States, woods at the Cradle of Forestry in the Deadline is the 19th of each [email protected]. (828) 274-3647 or visit www.animal- Aquila Theatre Company presents scenic, historic Pink Beds valley. For compassionnetwork.org. month. Payment must be made Luigi Pirandello’s Six Characters in more details call (828) 877-3130. prior to printing. Monday, February 14 Search of an Author, 8 p.m. Friday, February 27-March 1 Email Beth Gossett at: February 4; and Shakespeare’s A The Cradle of Forestry is located in the Moving Women [email protected] Midsummer Night’s Dream, 8 p.m. Pisgah National Forest near Brevard, Wants to Be Your Valentine Kanuga’s Bowen Conference NC on Highway 276, four miles south Or mail to: 85 N. Main St, Canton, Saturday, February 5, 2011. Main- Moving Women’s Valentine’s pro- Best-selling author and poet Kath- NC 28716. Call (828) 646-0071 to stage Theatre Series. Diana Wortham of the Blue Ridge Parkway. The fee for leen Norris will explore a new way this program is $5 per adult. Admission duction merges dance and song in a place ad over the phone. Theatre at Pack Place. Regular $35; visceral, intriguing journey through of thinking about spiritual sloth at Senior $33; Student $30; Student Rush is free for youth under age 16. Kanuga Conferences. – Disclaimer – the best and worst of love. “S/He Loves day-of-the-show $10 (with valid I.D.) Me, S/He Loves Me Not…” explores Norris will focuse on Due to the overwhelming number of Tickets/Info: (828) 257-4530 or online Saturday, February 12 the theme “Into the local event submissions we get for our the sometimes confusing waters of at www.dwtheatre.com. Meet the Luthier and Photography love. 7:30 pm. Doors Open 8 p.m. For Hands of the Living “What to Do Guide” each month, we God: Spirituality can no longer accept entries that do not Opening tickets, call (828) 215-2410. Advance Sundays, February 6 and 20 Meet NC luthier and musician from sales are $10-20 per person or $15-35 for the Real World.” specifically follow our publication’s Affiliated with the format. Non-paid event listings must English Country Dance 3-4, House Concert from 4-5. Free. per couple, balcony or orchestra. Episcopal Church be 30 words or less and both paid and Asheville Arts Center, 308 Merrimon Featured: Photography opening of non-paid listings must provide infor- February 18-20 since 1928, Kanuga mation in the following format: date, is a 1,400-acre camp sutherland Handweaving Kathleen Norris time, brief description of what your and conference center event is and any contact information. www.EuroContempArt.net Workshop in the Blue Ridge Mountains near Any entries not following this format Weavers wanting to add more personal Hendersonville, NC. For more infor- will not be considered for publication. Original 19th and 20th century European paintings. flair to their handwoven projects can mation, visit www.kanuga.org or call learn a spontaneous and more con- (828) 692-9136. FEBRUARY EVENTS ~ ANNOUNCEMENTS ~ CLASSIFIEDS
32 February 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE what to do guide ™
Valentines Day Treat Dr. Etta: Family Specialist Richard Oversmith Fine Art Workshop from the City Bakery Friday, February 11 at 8 p.m. February 16, 17, This valentine’s day, surprise that Music City Artists presents a new one-woman show from Award Win- and 18 special person in your life with a ning comedian Etta May. Dr. Etta (Family Specialist) is a hilarious and 3rd Annual Still rose they will really love. heartfelt look at the breakdown of the American Family. It’s common Life in the Studio. sense for the common man. The family of the 21st century is deathly ill, Your choice: white A three day paint- and Dr. Etta has the cure! This two-act play, staged as a seminar, makes or chocolate 4" ing workshop in you laugh one minute and cry the next. cake; vanilla but- Richard’s studio tercream, chocolate The star of the sell-out tour, “Southern Fried Chicks,” Etta May is a from 9 a.m. to 4 buttercream, or regular on CMT and winner of the prestigious Female Comic of the p.m each day. This raspberry filling; Year award. Comedian Etta May at the Diana Wortham Theatre in Asheville. This performance is con- workshop is de- white icing with sidered PG-13. To purchase tickets call the Box Office at (828) 257-4530, or visit www.dwtheatre.com. signed for all lev- chocolate rose or els. Drawing and chocolate icing some oil painting with white rose. experience is a most. Students will explore all aspects Order now through of painting the still life in a Alla Prima fashion. February 7! Choco- Best in Show by Phil Juliano We will put into practice key points such as Object late Rose Cakes, selection, Object placement, setting up a still life, $45 each. Call (828) 252-4426 Lighting the set up, and painting what you see. (Biltmore Ave. store) or (828) Working on medium sized canvases with large 254-4289 (Charlotte St. store) brushes will help students focus on the bigger shapes of a composition. Emphasis will be put on values, edges, and color, and simplifying a composition to March 11, 12, 13 create paintings that have unity. A Dream of Camelot Instructor demonstrations daily. Individual instruc- “A Dream of Camelot,” is now cast tion and critique. Easel necessary. Tuition: $320. and will be performed at the Ma- 20% off if you are a former student of Richards. sonic Temple in downtown Asheville. Maximum students: 6. Two spots left. Contact Rich- Tickets now available. We invite you ard at [email protected] or phone (828) 299-1066 for details. to participate in this deeply moving by Amy Downs and healing musical. Please email Callie & Cats [email protected] or call (828) 658-9604 for details. A Likely Yarn, located in Abingdon, VA, offers classes for everyone from beginners to experienced knitters this Saturday, March 26 January. For more details on classes or products visit our 5k Race to Benefit Orphans website at www.alikelyyarn.com. To register for classes, call (276) 628-2143. There will be a charity 5k race to be held at Carrier Park in Asheville. This will raise funds for the building of an orphanage in Honduras. February at Cloth Fiber Workshop This is a project of the Carpenters All classes and workshops take place at the Cloth Heart, a 501c based out of Weaverville, Fiber Workshop studio located in the Cotton Mill NC. Register for the race online at Studios in Asheville’s River Arts District. www.carpentersheart.org. Corgi Tales by Phil Hawkins Intuitive Marbling on Cotton & Silk The entry fee is $25 for the 5k, and Saturday, February 12 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. $10 for the 1 mile fun run. Contact Instructor: Laura Sims. Fee: $85 + materials Andy Plemmons at (828) 775-6646 for more information. Learn the surface design technique of marbling – a fascinating hydro-printing process! Each student will go home with a selection of fabrics that can be used through June 19 in mixed media, fabric collage, quilting and nuno Mischief-Making: Contemporary felting. Craftsman Jake Cress Embroidery Sampler Book, Parts I & II William King Museum: Center for From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Instructors: Heather Allen- Art and Cultural Heritage presents Swarttouw. Fee: $98/day + materials. Take one or works by cabinetmaker Jake Cress. both classes. The artisan’s work ranges from the traditional to his more well-known Part I: Friday, February 25 – Learn a variety of “animated” works – chairs that carve Dragin by Michael Cole embroidery stitches and explore alternatives to the their own arms, clocks that swat at standard favorites. mice with their pendulums, and tables Part II: Saturday, February 26 – Explore variations with crutches for legs. on old favorites and new stitches while continuing to An artist’s talk with Cress takes place develop a personal stitch vocabulary. on Tuesday, March 22 at 7 p.m., and Contact: Barbara Zaretsky, (828) 505-2958, info@ a carving workshop is scheduled for clothfiberworkshop.com, for more details. May 21 at 2 p.m. On display at the William King Museum. Located at 415 Cloth Fiber Workshop Academy Drive, off West Main Street, 122 Riverside Drive, Studio D • Asheville, NC or Russell Road, in Abingdon. www.clothfiberworkshop.com
CLASSES ~ LECTURES ~ ARTS & CRAFTS ~ READINGS
Vol. 14, No. 6 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — February 2011 33 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE youth culture JOSEPH RATHBONE RECOMMENDS There’s a Dinosaur in the Closet sheville Pup- international tours. or this month’s review I decided to BY JOSEPH RATHBONE petry Alliance The troupe see “True Grit.” But before I review AGE 12 presents has won numer- the film I would like to explain the the magi- ous major puppetry origin of “True Grit.” It started out it does have a realis- cal family awards including as a serial, (which is when a story is A tic ending. friendly production First Prize at the Freleased one chapter at a time). After the Basically, the of “There’s a Dino- 1977 International serial was finished some people decided to whole movie is saur in the Closet”, Festival of Puppet- put all of the chapters together and they about a an award-winning Actors in Poland, and made a book. 14 year old girl trying to puppet show by Coad both the Puppeteers Much later, avenge her father’s death. Canada Puppets from of America Trust- in 1969, a movie In the beginning, the Vancouver, Canada. ees’ Award and the based on the film mentions how her Forbidden to President’s Award book was made father died, then it shows have a pet, Darryl A magical family friendly, award-winning (the highest honors staring John the girl hiring “Rooster” smuggles a “pet” rock puppet show by Coad Canada Puppets in North American Wayne. Now, (Jeff Bridges) to find into his cluttered from Canada. puppetry). more than 40 her father’s killer and room. Then the rock The American years later, the bring him to justice (she hatches into a tiny dinosaur with an incred- Centre of l’Union Internationale de la Mari- movie has been really wants Rooster to ible appetite. Suddenly Darryl’s “no prob- onnette has awarded the Coads eight Cita- remade and it’s kill him). The rest of the lem” pet is a huge problem. tions of Excellence in the Art of Puppetry. the one I’m go- movie is the pursuit of her What does it eat? How can he train it? In 2006 the British Columbia Entertainment ing to review. father’s killer. Why is it growing so quickly? How can he Hall of Fame inducted the company as I give this Over all it was a good keep it hidden in his room? And most im- Entertainment Pioneers. film three and a movie, and I recommend portantly, how can he convince Aunt Amelia half stars. One it for anyone 12 and up. to let him keep his unusual pet? of the reasons There are some pretty Frequently called “one of North IF Public performance is that I’ve rated it violent moments that America’s leading puppet theatres”, Coad Saturday, February 19 at 11 on the low side YOU some parents might find Canada Puppets was founded in 1966 by GO a.m. at the Diana Wortham is because the objectionable. Well, I guess Arlyn and Luman Coad. The company has Theatre. For reservations movie sends out that’s all for this month. performed throughout North America as call (828) 257-4530 or order a bad message. well as seventeen countries across Europe, online at www.dwtheatre.com. Tickets Also, the movie your friend, the Middle East, South America, and the are $7 each. For more information visit ends unsatisfac- Hailee Steinfeld plays Mattie Ross Joseph Pacific Rim. The Canadian Department of www.ashevillepuppetry.org and click on torily, although in True Grit. External Affairs has sponsored nine of the Young Audience Series.
Mentors and Students Exhibitions in Henderson County
he Arts Council of Henderson BY PATTY SMYERS board president. ‘They foster self- County announces three up- expression, discipline and self-con- coming student and art teacher fidence. Art instruction impacts the exhibitions. ondary school age students development of the neural networks Mentors and Students, (middle and high school) in that can raise IQ scores, allow T the county. Public, private, the Arts Council’s major winter/spring students to learn more rapidly and project celebrating the importance of and parochial schools, as thoroughly, and aid them in devel- the arts for children and youth, includes well as home-school as- oping social skills.” both visual and performing sociations are Performances will also be arts components. encouraged scheduled featuring Henderson The visual arts com- to participate. County children and youth. Teach- ponent of Mentors and Students tak- ers, students, and parents looking Students includes three ing private art Self Portrait by for more information should contact exhibitions: The Art of classes are also Abby Mays, from 2010 exhibition. The Arts Council at info@acofhc. Our Children: Elementary eligible. Artists org or (828) 693-8504. School Exhibit (February 25 of Tomorrow: – March 11), Art Teachers Secondary Student Exhibition Create (March 18 – April 1), is a judged show with cash IF All exhibitions and and Artists of Tomorrow: awards presented to the win- YOU performances will be Secondary Student Exhibi- ning artists. GO presented in the Main Street tion (April 8 – 22). Art Teachers Create lobby gallery of First Citizens Drawing by 13-year-old Cara Levy. The Art of Our Chil- Self Portrait, is open to all art teachers Bank, 539 North Main Street Cara loves drawing and tries her best whose students are eligible to in downtown Hendersonville. to draw anime/manga, a complex dren: Elementary School Zach Davenport Japanese art form. She is also really Exhibit is open to all participate in the two student Exhibition rules and criteria may be obtained into music. Cara wants to be an artist exhibitions. “We believe that all the arts on the Arts Council’s website www.acofhc. or be in a band when she grows up, elementary age students in Henderson but she’s still not sure. She is an County. Artists of Tomorrow: Second- have a profound impact on our children and org, or by contacting [email protected] or 8th grader at Evergreen Community ary Student Exhibition is open to all sec- youth,” said Doug Jarvis, the Arts Council’s (828) 693-8504. Charter School in Asheville.
34 February 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS fine art People-Museums, and the People-Museums Who Love Them MORE ARTISTIC MUSINGS FROM THE SCI-FI LOVING SHUT-IN
keep hacking helplessly away BY GREG VINEYARD on this elusive piece about my ing of the new visit to the LA Reznick Pavilion at ICounty Museum LACMA. Architec- of Art (LACMA). turally, it blended If you write, you perfectly with their know what I’m get- ever-expanding ting at... a concept map. I can’t say I won’t quite flow cared for the layout out the fingers, but inside, or even two it won’t quite go of the three open- away, either. So ing show choices, much to say is mad- but the educational deningly juxtaposed aspect was excel- with attempts to lent — and isn’t hollow-out a sim- that what museums pler storyline. are for? So who This is also Pre-Columbian gathering: Could they be can really complain discussing Picasso? why my book isn’t about anything finished. OK, it’s other than the partly that and partly because I just had painfully obvious tactic of herding traffic to watch the Star Trek Next Generation through the gift store? And made for DVD movie, “Nemesis”. (TWO I loved the Pre-Columbian exhibit in DATAS! TWO PICARDS! That’s all I’m the main hall. So I have to say there was saying. Except that more unbelievable something for everyone: cool outsides, than the plot is that I of all people actually wonderful colors and a variety of visual art- hadn’t seen it yet.) historical experiences. Anyway, other ideas freely jump in, LACMA is one of my favorite places in jockeying for position in the mental queue. Los Angeles, so it was great to go back and Museums make me think about art history. see how it has changed. It was like visiting Art history makes me think about my moth- an old friend who had a new idea to excit- er. I actually learned more about Picasso edly share over a fabulous lunch. from her than I did in my schooling. To me, we are all like people-museums, having those lunches, sharing our art. Me, my friends and family members ... we are a collective set of related buildings People are like musuems – on a lush campus, and we are as worth we are storehouses of interests, visiting as a group as we are worth revelations and secrets. visiting individually. We have lifetime memberships to each other’s storehouses of interests, One day I came home and the walls revelations and secrets. And because were covered with Picasso prints from an of that, we get chances to mutually celebrate oversized art-print book. His circus per- our ever-evolving experiences. formers provided balance in my psyche So make sure to keep up your mem- against all other clown art. I became familiar berships with the people-museums in your with the Blue Period. And I was the only kid life. But no routing through the gift store! in high school art history to correctly pro- Spending time is the real gift. I still hang art vide the answer “Guernica” for 1000 extra all over my walls to this day, thanks to the credit points. The living room had become people-museum I grew up with. an art museum. It hit me during a yoga class (My first Greg Vineyard is an artist ever! At 106! Which proves you can start and creative consultant any time!) that these major thoughts do in Asheville’s River Arts kind of weave together. Maybe. It could District. He and his Ceramics have been the strain of holding poses much for Contemplation & more intricate than my usual one of trying Connectivity can be found at to look vaguely intriguing at Starbucks. Constance Williams Gallery, Anyway, in my leg-shaky haze I decided (the middle building in CURVE), 9 Riverside PEOPLE ARE LIKE MUSUEMS. Drive in Asheville. Open every day 11 a.m. I recently got to attend the open- to 4 p.m. Visit www.CURVEstudiosNC.com.
Vol. 14, No. 6 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — February 2011 35 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE fine art Blackbird Welcomes Two New Artists
lackBird Frame & Art is proud to BY PHILIP DEANGELO welcome two new artists to the gal- lery. Marsha Hammel and Nancy Livingston are both masters of their craft and have been working artists Bfor most of their lives. Marsha Hammel has been a profession- al figurative painter for over thirty years and captures the spirit of music and dance as few artists can. Hammel’s paintings can be found in over 1,000 private & corporate collections throughout the US and Europe. Above: “Clubbing” 24" x 36" Oil on Canvas by Marsha Hammel. Marsha returned to her roots in North Left: “Golden Ideals” 22" x 10" x 7" Handbuilt Clay Sculpture Carolina about ten years ago after what by Nancy Livingston. she terms, “the gypsy life” of traveling the While is lively, and she captures the elegance and country living a few years here & a few years growing up vibe of her subjects – primarily women, there. While living in Miami she fell in love in New York dance and music – as few others. Nancy’s with Afro Cuban & Caribbean music; while City, Nancy ceramic sculptures are a trip into a fascinat- in New Orleans it was all about jazz. Her Livingston was ing world of interesting characters, like play- constant study of the Modernist masters, a regular at ers in a Fellini film, according to one visitor Matisse, Picasso and Modigliani, are evident most art offer- to the gallery.” in her fluid forms and soulful palette. ings through- BlackBird shows the work of talented out the city. local artists in the century-old former home Nancy moved to Western North Caro- of Merrimon Galleries, and offers one of the lina over twenty years ago and now resides area’s largest selections of framing options in Black Mountain. After working as a full by an experienced and highly-regarded staff. time potter for over forty years, her direction Adds Horrocks, “We’ve made many changes began to shift towards ceramic sculpture. to the gallery in the last year – if you haven’t The sculpture is handbuilt using coil, been in lately, it’s really worth a new look.” slab and pinch methods. It is then bisque Stop by the gallery on Merrimon or fired, glazed and, fired a second time in an check out BlackBird’s display windows electric kiln. The timeless pieces that are downtown in the old Kostas building, across produced are spontaneously made and ever- from the Grove Arcade, to view some of the changing. Each of her characters displays a work from these wonderful artists. wonderful range of emotions and draws the viewer in to their own private story. “These two artists definitely elevate the BlackBird Frame & Art is an independent art gallery and custom frame studio owned by energy level of our gallery”, says BlackBird Pat and John Horrocks and located at 365 co-owner John Horrocks. “Marsha’s paint- Merrimon Avenue in Asheville. ings are upbeat and entertaining, her palette
BODY PROVOCATIVE EXHIBIT The artists of Constance Williams Meet the Gallery & Working Studios present artists during musings on form – human and otherwise the opening – in “Body Provocative.” reception on The creations of Constance Wil- Saturday, Feb- liams, Jenny Mastin, Cassie Ryalls, Lucile ruary 12, 2011, Stephens, Patty Bilbro, Greg Vineyard, from 11 a.m. Mystery Masiello, Kelly Prestwood, Philip to 4 p.m. On DeAngelo and Naomi Diamond-Rodgers display through reflect their individual reactions and col- March 11, Pottery by Patty Bilbro laborative discussions on the topic. 2011. Free and In the month for lovers, and so close open to the public. to Valentine’s Day, will you encounter IF YOU GO: Constance Williams results related to Eros? Or perhaps func- Gallery, 9 Riverside Drive, Asheville. tionality, fear, appreciation, conceptual Phone (828) 225-1762 or visit www. ideas and humor? constancewilliamsgallery.com.
36 February 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE fine art news Internationally Known Artist Vadim Bora Dies FAMILY, FRIENDS, ADMIRERS GATHER TO CELEBRATE HIS LIFE AND LEGACY
nternationally known artist, sculp- of Bora, who had exhibited BY BYRON BELZAK tor, teacher and friend Vadim Bora of the first major showing of Asheville died peacefully at approxi- her works at his Down- mately 7 p.m. on January 5, 2011, in the town Asheville gallery. in Asheville; his intensive care unit of Mission Hospital “Asheville has lost a great trio of running inI Asheville, North Carolina. He was 56 artist, and we have lost a cats, “Cat Walk,” years old. Bora had suffered a massive stroke wonderful friend. Why do in Downtown on the evening of December 19, 2010. the good die young?” Asheville on Hoping against hope that he would re- Yeva and her partner, Wall Street cover, a steady stream of family and friends Alien, were two of more along the Urban had visited him at his bedside in the hospital than 100 friends, family Trail between “On The Mend!” Vadim Bora’s 10-piece bronze sculpture as he lay unconscious. He never did open members and admirers the Laughing at Mission Hospital. his eyes one last time. who gathered on Jan. 14, Seed Restaurant For weeks the Asheville area arts com- 2011, in Bora’s Down- and the Wall Street Coffee New York City, his son from his first mar- munity has been in shock trying to deal town Asheville studio to House; a magnificent 10- riage, is currently visiting in Asheville. with the loss of one its great friends and commemorate his life and piece sculpture grouping of Vadim Bora owned and operated the leaders. Vadim Bora had moved from his works. A dozen framed Vadim Bora (1955-2011) children and animals, “On Vadim Bora Studio-Gallery, located at 30 1/2 homeland of North Ossetia in the Cauca- self-portrait paintings of the The Mend!,” at Mission Battery Park Ave. in Downtown Asheville. sus Mountains of Russia to the Blue Ridge artist hung on the walls. Reuter Children’s Outpatient For more information about the artist and Mountains of North Carolina in the early According to friends Center; most recently, his his works, visit his website at www.vadim- 1990s. After his death, a number of public close to the family, Con- commissioned work of Cor- borastudio.com. and private gatherings that honored his life stance Richards, his fourth nelia, the daughter of George Copyright 2010 MediaBear and remarkable works have been held, and wife, found Vadim Bora and Edith Vanderbilt with her continue to be held. seated and unconscious St. Bernard, Cedric. “Cornelia In keeping with the Russian Orthodox in his studio on Dec. 19, and Cedric,” was dedicated Church tradition, a remembrance celebra- 2010. She called 911, and on September 23, 2010, and tion of Vadim Bora’s life and legacy is he was taken by ambulance is situated in the courtyard of planned 40 days following his death; it is to Mission Hospital. It was the new Antler Hill Village at believed according to Russian religion that determined that Bora had Biltmore Estate. Momentos of remembrance the soul departs the earth at that time. The suffered a massive stroke. hung outside Vadim Bora’s Always ready with a public gathering will be held on approxi- Approximately five years studio and gallery in laugh and a smile for friend mately Feb. 14, 2011. Details will be posted ago he had recovered from Downtown Asheville. and stranger alike, Vadim on www.DowntownAsheville.com. a minor stroke. A private Bora particularly enjoyed his “We are all so upset,” said Asheville art- funeral was held in early January 2011. annual April Fool’s exhibition, where he ist and singer-songwriter Yeva, a close friend Four of Bora’s best-known, commis- once quipped, “And someday I will have sioned bronze sculptures can be viewed an exhibit, entitled ‘The Starving Audience locally: his spread-winged eagle, “Wings of Show,’ because there are so many people Freedom,” in the lobby of the VA Hospital who are starving for good art.” Bora is well To Vadim From Yeva known for his classical and contemporary works of art. He was a prolific artist and The great Artist died, beloved art teacher. An empty hole now Vadim Bora is survived by with his In grieving city heart, wife, Constance Richards, in Asheville, Which cannot be North Carolina. He was a member of the Filled in too soon Mountain Sculptors. Richards is a nation- By anything but Art. ally known journalist and author, as well as His masterpieces will live on, art gallery manager at The Grand Bohemian His memories within Hotel of Biltmore Village. Georgi Bora of DONATE YOUR CAR! Will be treasured by so many Goodbye my Friend Vadim. The postcard announcing Vadim Bora’s You lived your life “Faces You Might Know” exhibition As the artists do, (December 2008), featured a number of Free from a dogma’s rule. ordinary and extraordinary Ashevillians, At times your Art including several self-portraits of the Cracked walls with humor incomparable artist. Many considered it 100% Tax Deductible to be one of the artist’s most impressive On the night of the April’s fool. Free Pick-Up Anywhere Sometimes your Art exhibitions. We’re Available 7 Days a Week Made people think and wonder “Faces You Might Know: Celebrating the Even cry. Freedom of the Portrait Genre with Vadim 'RQDWLQJLV)DVW (DV\&DOO7RGD\ Vadim was such a precious gift Bora” presented nearly 200 of his works To this Land of the Sky. that included bronze and terracotta sculptures, oil paintings, charcoal illus- 888-537-8015 trations, and pen-and-ink drawings. Mon-Fri 6am-8pm • Sat-Sun 8am-6pm Copyright 2011 YevasUniverse.com The Breast Cancer Research Foundation is a classifi ed 501 (c)(3) charity. 6H+DEOD(VSDxRO
Vol. 14, No. 6 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — February 2011 37 Mouthwatering Gifts RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE stage preview TAKE A WALK ON THE DARK SIDE WITH W Jk M Hyd n 1944 Charles Jackson wrote a successful novel about the descent BY DENNIS RAY into addiction titled “The Lost 100% Satisfaction Weekend.” It is credited as being believed science and scientists actually could create monsters. % Guaranteed! Ione of the first books to openly Save 20 talk about addiction to alcohol and So Stevenson focused his Offer only available at: Over 20 Million Berries, how it can destroy a person and all book on a rare mental condi- www.berries.com/big Hand-Dipped. that they care about. Since then, many tion called “split personality.” or call 1.888.743.1347 John Crutchfield as Dr. Jekyll. *20% discount will appear upon checkout. Discounts may books, movies, and plays have touched He used this newly diagnosed Photo: Peter Brezny. not be used in conjunction with other special offers, coupons or discounts. Discount applies to item cost only and does not upon the subject. medical condition to talk include discounts on shipping and handling or taxes. Discount When Jekyll Met Hyde is any glimpse only applies to items over $29. Valid now through 12/31/2011. Local playwright Steven Samuels about good and evil, and how each of tackles the same theme in his bril- us is capable of doing evil if free of of what the future holds for local liant When Jekyll Met Hyde, but conscience. theatre, then that glimpse is showing uses humor and old-fashioned, good Samuels could have simply retold many wonderful things to come. I was Valentine’s Day February 14 Victorian dialogue to carry his point Stevenson’s story or updated it. In- personally enthralled from the begin- across. Except that Hyde, although it stead he used it as a backdrop, the way ning to the end, and wouldn’t mind 03:) is exceptionally funny in parts, isn’t a Author Miller used the Salem witch spending another evening with this comedy. It is actually a deep and dark trials an allegory to McCarthyism. bazaar group of characters. After all, moving story of one man’s descent Sometimes metaphors speak louder we all want to walk a little toward the &3959)8 into nothingness. than facts. dark side now and then. We all know the story of Robert The play itself, too, is a model of The Magnetic Field Theatre is Louis Stevenson’s novella The Strange transformation. It begins like a slap- mounting two different productions Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde stick comedy, with overacting char- simultaneously: one set in the 1950s (1886). It is, after all, probably the acters that wink and nod deliciously and the other in the 1960s, with two most famous story of good and evil with high camp at the audience. These different casts, in alternating repertory. +s/h in fiction. If not, it certainly pulls a characters are all fun and animated, The 1950s version features Mondy close second behind Melville’s “Moby and the sense is that this play will Carter, Tracey Johnston-Crum, John &Y]RS[ERHKIX Dick.” That is probably why Samuels be something like “Arsenic and Crutchfield, Darren Marshall, and uses it to talk about drug addiction. Old Lace.” For instance, Dr. Jekyll, Alphie Hyorth. The cast of the 1960s *6))'LSGSPEXI Because, like with drugs, you first (Mondy Carter), is at first played like a version includes John Crutchfield, *6))8IHH]&IEV believe you are and will always be in charming Cary Grant. But as the play Kathryn Temple, Julian Vorus, Steph control. Then one day you wake up moves on, and the pace and dialogue Anie, and Peter Brezny. slows, we come to learn terrible things ‘Says Bacchus to Venus,’ music 3JJIVSRP]EZEMPEFPIEX4VS*PS[IVWGSQWTMVMX and you discover you are no longer in control and there really isn’t anything do happen to good people. and lyrics by Steven Samuels, arrange- SVGEPP you can do about it. It’s too late. The comedy fades and the vol- ment by Brian Claflin and Steven Most of us, Samuels says, secretly ume of terror is turned up. The vio- Samuels, realization by Brian Claflin. want to be a little bad, to take a walk lence seemingly catches you off guard, Set design by Leslie Klingner and *Price is guaranteed only for orders placed prior to 2/14/2011. on the dark side. Only you can’t pick because, like Jekyll into Hyde, the play Kevin Smith. Lighting design by Ryan and choose bad. It is as Samuels’ Hyde has morphed from a tamed and gentle Madden. 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38 February 2011 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 14, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE workshops & auditions
Stella Adler Studio of Acting presents Monday Night Workshop Series
he Stella Adler Studio of Act- Students will work through an ing is thrilled to announce its extensive routine based on an array of brand new Monday Night vocal techniques, including those of Workshop Series! The Series Kristin Linklater and Cicely Berry, with will run from January 31 an emphasis on using physical release Tthrough April 18, 2011, and offers and breath manipulation to access a classes in movement, voice, improvisa- more full, clear, and effective voice. tion, and auditions. IMPROVISATION Monday, February 21, from 7 to 9 p.m. with instructors Richard Handy and Dusty McKeelan. required, although space is limited in Participants will explore a each class. 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Vol. 14, No. 6 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — February 2011 39