On October 9 & 10, artists in East Asheville, Swannanoa, Black Mountain, and Fairview invite you to visit their studios. tHe CRaFt FaiR OF THE SOUtHeRn HigHLandS PAGE 38 Traditional and contemporary crafts, demonstrations and entertainment. PAGE 7

Jonas Gerard’s new mixed-media exhibition, Asheville, the Way I See It, rejuvinates and energizes. PAGE 19

Van Dyke HART’s production Jewelry and of Buddy: The Buddy Fine Craft Holly Story is sure to get your feet tapping, and may have you dancing in the aisles. PAGE 35

Asheville Bravo Concerts has a new Manager of Marketing & Development: Meet Brian Claflin. PAGE 5

Susan Marie Designs

Take a tour through Paula Dawkins Weaverville Jewels That Dance and the surrounding areas, meeting artists who live and work there, November 6 & 7. PAGE 39

prints color RAPID RIVER ARTS performance

geORge and iRa geRSHWin COMe tO LiFe in ‘S Wonderful – The New Gershwin Musical

he Diana Wortham Theatre at BY JOHN ELLIS Pack Place presents the new Off Broadway touring production, ‘S Wonderful – The New Gershwin Musical, Saturday, October 16 at Tthe Diana Wortham Theatre at Pack Place in downtown Asheville. This all singing, all dancing musical celebrates the genius of George and Ira Gershwin, the songwriting team who helped raise popular musical theatre to a new level of sophistication in the 20th century. A tal- ented cast of five triple-threat singer/dancer/ actors brings the music of the Gershwin brothers to life – taking the audience on a nostalgic ride through celebrated periods in history with the Gershwin brothers’ music as the moving and lively centerpiece. Incorporating five mini-musicals inspired by historical events during the iF Mainstage Theatre Series lifetimes of the Gershwin brothers, ‘S presents ‘S Wonderful – The Wonderful explores the Gershwins’ impact YOU New Gershwin Musical, on the world, then and now. From New gO Saturday, October 16 at 2 York City in the 1920s, Paris in the ‘30s, and 8 p.m. Diana Wortham Hollywood in the ‘40s, and New Orleans Theatre at Pack Place. in the ‘50s, ‘S Wonderful features the For more information or to purchase tickets different places, times and musical styles (Regular $35; Seniors $33; Students $30; that made the Gershwin brothers the most Student Rush day-of-the-show with valid successful songwriting team in the history ID $10), call the theatre’s box office at (828) of popular music. 257-4530 or visit www.dwtheatre.com.

Bravo Goes to Oklahoma!

inner of the Pulitzer BY BRIAN CLAFLIN Prize, two Academy “People Will Say We’re Awards, a In Love,” “Oh What WGrammy and a special A Beautiful Mornin,’” Tony Award, Okla- and “Surrey With A Fine Art homa! is the classic Fringe On Top,” and, of course, the show-stop- High Quality American musical that launched the remarkable ping title song, this is Furnishings songwriting collabora- the show the New York Pottery tion of Richard Rodgers Times calls, “The Great & Oscar Hammerstein. American Musical.” On Saturday, October Upcoming Bravo 23, Asheville Bravo Concerts welcomes performances include The New York Gil- a new tour from New York City of this bert & Sullivan Players’ The Mikado and the hugely popular musical to the Thomas extraordinary string trio Time For Three. Wolfe Auditorium. With a record-breaking opening run on Broadway, Oklahoma! ushered in iF Asheville Bravo Concerts the “Golden Age” of American musical presents Oklahoma! At the theatre, inspiring the Oscar-winning film YOU Thomas Wolfe Auditorium, adaptation and countless revivals over the gO Saturday, October 23 at 7:30 years. Set in turn of the century Oklahoma p.m. against a backdrop of the high-spirited Tickets range from $20-$60 and can be rivalry between local farmers and cowboys, purchased by calling (828) 225-5887, visiting 29 Biltmore Ave. Exclusive Parking in the Rear Oklahoma! is the cherished love story of www.ticketmaster.com, or in person at the Located between Mast General Store and Doc Chey’s. Curly, a handsome cowboy, and Laurey, a Civic Center Box Office. Students half- winsome farm girl. price. For more information please visit (828) 281-4044 :: www.vandykejewelry.com Featuring such favorite numbers as www.ashevillebravoconcerts.org.

2 October 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 2

prints color SOME VOICES These generous donors understand how RiverLink leverages their donations and want to give us the tools to continue our work. With these generous gifts, RiverLink continues: ROaR... • Implementing the Wilma • Connecting land throughout the • Demonstrating how Dykeman RiverWay, watershed using conservation environmental protection Like a waterfall, the providing river access and easements thereby ensuring a green and economic development collective voice of greenways – waterside legacy for generations to come. Our are linked; clean, clear water our $1,000 donors playgrounds, hiking and stream restoration work reduces is imperative for the future biking trails – while bringing runoff and combats erosion while growth of the region and roars and makes a economic development to making our streams accessible for health of its inhabitants. big splash. seemingly forgotten areas. people of all ages and abilities.

It Takes Many Voices to Make a Strong Voice Join us on November 9 Become a Voice of the River Today Bill Holman will discuss Join RiverLink today by calling us at 828-252-8474, ext. 16. the state of water in North Carolina, including water Or, visit our website at www.riverlink.org and click the Donate Now button. quality and quantity issues. He will also describe the report he prepared and presented to the North Carolina legislature with Richard Whisenhunt. Bill Holman, former Secretary of NC DENR, is now a scholar at the Nicholas School of the Environment at Duke University. Event takes place in the Ferguson Auditorium, AB Tech Asheville Campus, at 6 p.m.

Vol. 14, No. 2 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — October 2010 

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4 October 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 2

prints color RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE performance Meet Asheville Bravo Concerts New Manager of Marketing & Development: Brian Claflin BY DENNIS RAY

rian Claflin brings professional expe- fraction of the cost to put on a Bravo season. to Georgia” recorded “With Bravo’s 79th season rience in concert booking, advertis- Luckily, each year over 30% of our subscrib- by Nanci Griffith and off to a blazing start, I’m al- ing and non-profit development ers additionally make charitable donations Adam Duritz of Counting ready enjoying the excitement work in education — as well as from (that list of “Composers, Virtuosos, etc.” Crows, on Griffith’s CD people have for our next show, his own performing arts background you see being thanked in the event pro- Flyer; and the theme song Oklahoma! (on Saturday, Oc- toB Asheville Bravo Concerts. grams). It’s important to our contributors to PBS’ Dragon Tales); tober 23). It’s being marked on Claflin spent the ‘90s in New York, to share programs not otherwise available published children’s a lot of family calendars, given first at Premier Talent Agency, booking – and to keep ticket prices affordable. author/musician (Bake how proven a success this mu- national concert tours for acts including U2 You A Pie, Tricycle Press/ sical comedy has always been and Bruce Springsteen; in the latter part of Asheville Bravo Concerts is the Random House); sketch across every age range,” he the decade he produced music and voice- comedy writer/performer; Brian Claflin says. “The Rogers & Hammer- oldest arts non-profit in the overs for television and radio commercials voice/over actor; and stein classic (their first) is a hit at Saatchi & Saatchi Advertising Worldwide, area – Claflin is thrilled to be recently as “neo-traditional” folk musician with kids, parents and grandparents alike.” for British Airways, Staples, and General part of that rich history. in collaboration with his father, award- Claflin is thrilled to be part of the rich Mills among other clients, working with tal- winning storyteller Willy Claflin, who is history at the oldest arts non-profit in the ent including Peter Paul & Mary, James Earl “In addition — and my favorite aspect a frequent fixture at the nearby National area. “And,” he adds, “what a great time to Jones, and McGruff the Crime Dog. of Bravo’s work — those donations allow us Storytelling Festival in Jonesborough, TN be here, leading up to next year’s 80th An- More recently, Claflin spent several to provide educational programs and subsi- (where the father-son vocal duo performed niversary.” years in development at a non-profit orga- dized tickets for public schools and commu- together in 2009, several excerpts of which Bravo, indeed! nization close to his heart: his elementary nity youth organizations. That’s a big reason can be found on YouTube). alma mater (where his father taught) in we receive, and continue to need, this type With his varied experience in advertis- Massachusetts. Claflin hopes some of this of support,” Claflin says. ing, knowledge in the music business, non- For more information about Oklahoma! more recent experience will come in handy In parallel with his professional life, profit development, and the performing and other upcoming Bravo presentations, to bolster fundraising at his new post. Claflin wears many creative hats, having arts, the job of Marketing & Development please visit www.ashevillebravoconcerts. “The price of admission only covers a been a published songwriter (“Going Back Manager at Bravo is a perfect fit. org or call (828) 225-5887.

Vol. 14, No. 2 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — October 2010 5

prints color RAPID RIVER ARTS we love this place AIDS Awareness Walk RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE he Western North for those millions who Established in 1997 • Volume Fourteen, Number Two Carolina AIDS live day-to-day with Project (WNCAP), HIV/AIDS.” Tin partnership From November with thirty-six commu- 22 through December OCTOBER 2010 2 Performance nity-based organizations, 2, WNCAP will host an www.rapidrivermagazine.com ‘S Wonderful ...... 2 non-profits, churches exhibit of more than 15 Publisher/Editor: Dennis Ray Bravo Goes to Oklahoma! ...... 2 and businesses, will handmade panels of the Bravo Concerts’ Brian Claflin . . . . . 5 host the Asheville AIDS AIDS Memorial Quilt at Managing Editor: Beth Gossett Mozart’s Magic Flute ...... 8 Awareness Walk 2010 on Pack Place in commem- Marketing: Dennis Ray Saturday, November 6. Walkers will gather oration of World AIDS Day on December Staff Photographer: Dennis Ray at 11 a.m. at 11 Grove Street in downtown 1. A candlelight memorial vigil will be Layout & Design: Simone Bouyer 7 Fine Art Asheville and proceed up Patton Avenue to held in the evening of December 1st, also Proofreader: Mary Wilson Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands 7 the Vance Monument where Womansong at Pack Place. Book Editor: Cauley Bennett Goldsmith Susan Marie Phipps . . . 7 of Asheville will perform. “People seem tired of talking about Poetry Editor: Ted Olson “This year’s AIDS Walk theme is AIDS or mistakenly believe it has been Jonas Gerard ...... 19 unity and hope,” says Peggy Weil, WN- cured or that it is just a problem in Africa Accounting: Sharon Cole Blue Ridge Textures ...... 20 CAP Advocacy Coordinator. “Unity is or other countries,” according to Michael Distribution: Dennis Ray Twigs and Leaves Gallery...... 21 represented by the number of groups who Harney, WNCAP Educator. “What our John Mac Kah ...... 21 have joined our coalition in the effort to community and region have to realize CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Van Dyke Jewelry ...... 22 raise community awareness that HIV/AIDS is that without more open and realistic Danna Anderson, Serpentine Arborvitae, River Arts District ...... 2 continues to infect more than fifty-six- prevention education programs, people will Judy Ausley, Byron Belzak, Woolworth Walk Gallery ...... 4 thousand people each year in the United continue to be infected.” Kimberly Brewster, Jenny Bunn, Exhibitions at 16 Patton ...... 6 States. The walk is about remembering The AIDS Awareness walk is free to James Cassara, Michael Cole, that this disease has taken the lives of more the community, but event organizers are Philip DeAngelo, Amy Downs, than 25 million people worldwide, but it asking walkers to please leave pets at home. Ada Dudenhoeffer, John Ellis, 10 Columns is also about hope. Hope for a cure, hope Secure parking will be provided on Grove Beth Gossett, Max Hammonds, MD, James Cassara - Music ...... 10 for more public focus on education and Street. For additional AIDS Walk details Phil Hawkins, Bridget R. Hepler, Joe Zinich - Beer ...... 2 prevention, hope for better funding of or more information about WNCAP visit Phil Juliano, Chip Kaufmann, Greg Vineyard - Fine Art ...... 9 lifesaving HIV-related services, and hope www.wncap.org. Michelle Keenan, Peter Loewer, Michael Parker - Wine ......  April Nance, Ted Olson, Ted Olson - Poetry ...... 24 Michael Parker, Susan Marie Phipps, Cauley Bennett - Book Reviews .25-26 Dennis Ray, Clara Sofia, the Jewelry on this Month’s Cover David Starkey, Megan Stone, Bill Walz - Artful Living ...... 27 Susan Marie designs The Craft Fair of the Southern Higlands takes place Ashley Van Matre, Greg Vineyard, Peter Loewer - Thoreau’s Garden . 12 October 22-24 and will include these fine jewelry artists, The bright autumn foliage Bill Walz, Joe Zinich. Max Hammonds, MD - Health . . 28 all members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild. brings to mind the vibrant colors found in the natural Jewels that dance gemstones Susan Marie INFO Phipps uses in her designs. Rapid River Arts & Culture Magazine is a 11 Music Goldsmith Paula Dawkins is renowned for her Article on page 7. Van Dyke Parks ...... 11 stunning, artistic designs and her innate monthly publication. Address correspondence to ability to create jewelry that embodies [email protected] or write to: Freebo ...... 11 each customer’s unique Rapid River Arts & Culture Magazine aesthetic. Jewels That van dyke Jewelers 85 N. Main St. Dance, 63 Haywood Chris Van Dyke’s biggest goal Canton, NC 28716 13 Movie Reviews Street, downtown is to create jewelry people Asheville, NC. Phone: (828) 646-0071 will want to keep forever; to www.rapidrivermagazine.com Phone (828) 254- be treasured, transcending 5088 or visit www. “trends and seasons.” All materials contained herein are owned and 17 Stage Preview jewelsthatdance.com. Article on page 22. copyrighted by Rapid River Arts & Culture NC Stage – Angels in America. . . . 17 Magazine and the individual contributors unless ACT – Family Theatre ...... 17 otherwise stated. Opinions expressed in this HART – The Buddy Holly Story . 5 magazine do not necessarily correspond with the opinions of Rapid River Arts & Culture Magazine or the advertisers found herein. 30 What to Do Guide™ © Rapid River Arts & Culture Magazine, 1 October 2010 Vol. 14 No. 2 Best in Show by Phil Juliano . . . . . Callie & Cats by Amy Downs . . . . 1 Corgi Tales by Phil Hawkins . . . . 1 Dragin by Michael Cole ...... 1 38 Explore Asheville EAST of Asheville Studio Tour . . . 8 Weaverville Art Safari ...... 9 about the Cover: The Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands at the Asheville Civic Center features over 200 exhibitors selling fine traditional and contemporary crafts. Photo: Stewart Stokes

distributed at more than 90 locations throughout eight counties in WnC and South Carolina. First copy is free – each additional copy $1.50

6 October 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 2 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE fine traditional & contemporary crafts Crf Fr t S tr Higln s demonstrations George McCollum will show how he or four days each July and October, BY APRIL NANCE makes white oak baskets. He will be the Civic Center in Asheville comes demonstrating Thursday and Friday. alive with fine traditional and con- David Moore will demonstrate the temporary crafts. The Fairs, a local from them. The community this stages of carving bark houses using tradition since 1948, showcase the fosters is important to craftspeople F and patrons alike. In an age of mass hand tools. He will be demonstrating work of members of the Southern Highland Saturday and Sunday. Craft Guild and feature craft demonstra- production and imports, the connec- tions, regional music and entertainment. tion to fine American craft and the Joe Ruminski will demonstrate the use Over 200 craftspeople fill the two levels individual maker is more relevant of a pole lathe, and the modern method of the Civic Center selling their works than ever. The Fairs help the South- of turning on an electric lathe. of clay, fiber, glass, leather, metal, mixed ern Highland Craft Guild fulfill its Leftwich Pottery: local art and folk media, natural materials, paper, wood and mission to bring together the crafts pottery with Rodney Leftwich. jewelry. As members of the Southern High- and craftspeople of the Southern land Craft Guild, the exhibiting artists have Highlands for the benefit of shared Martha Owen will be making handspun passed a rigorous jury process to become resources, education, marketing and Bernie Rowell (right). Photo: Stewart Stokes yarn from animals: fleece from sheep, a part of the organization. Membership is conservation. and hair from angora rabbits. open to artists who live in the mountain The Craft Fairs take place in beautiful the Southern Highlands certainly enhance Dede Styles will demonstrate spinning counties of Alabama, downtown Asheville, this experience each July and October. and using the natural dyes of plants to Georgia, Kentucky, NC nestled within the color yarn outside the Civic Center. Maryland, the Caroli- Blue Ridge Mountains. Long known as an Alwin Wagener nas, Tennessee, and the iF Asheville Civic Center, 87 will be outside arts and crafts destina- Haywood St. in downtown Virginias. YOU the Civic Center While locals and tion, Asheville offers gO Asheville, NC. October 21- architectural charm, 24 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. with his forge, visitors can find crafts using heat to at numerous galleries, eclectic restaurants Thursday – Saturday, and 10 and a wide variety of a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday transform metal the Fairs are unique in into art. that they offer people lodging. People come Admission: Adults $7, children under 12 Photo: Stewart Stokes the opportunity to to Asheville seeking free. Group discounts available. Additional relaxation and inspira- information: www.craftguild.org or (828) connect with the artists Bayley Wharton’s Booth Music of the Mountains by purchasing directly Photo: Stewart Stokes tion. The Craft Fairs of 298-7928. Friday, October 22 11 a.m. Good Ole Mountain Dudes, MeMBeR OF tHe SOUtHeRn led by Steve Trismen – old time music. HigHLand CRaFt gUiLd 12:30 Quarterhouse – This family G l t S s Mi P s bluegrass band has been around for s autumn is upon us, many artists garnet and the chartreuse of peridot are I buy from only a over thirty years. gather inspiration from the brightly seen in autumn, in late-changing leaves or few stone cutters 2 p.m. The Moore Brothers Band colored splendor of the rolling evergreens. And the clear blue crystalline whom I’ve gotten – bluegrass and gospel. Southern mountains. Goldsmith skies which come with colder weather are to know very well Susan Marie Phipps is among those reflected in blue tourmalines, sapphires and and who have 4 p.m. Hot Duck Soup – Kazoos, Ainspired as she creates the precious gold aquamarine.” even won awards slide whistles, and banjos – old tunes and gemstone jewelry which she offers at Susan’s love of stones goes back to her for their innova- 14 kt. peach gold like you’ve never heard ‘em played. Susan Marie Designs, her childhood, when family tive styles of cut.” Aquamarine ring. gallery/studio in downtown outings were always an oc- Her jewelry designs are also deeply Saturday, October 23 Asheville. For her the kalei- casion for her to comb the influenced by the balance nature achieves 11 a.m. Sherri Lynn and Mountain doscopic fall colors have a ground in quest of pretty or between simple and complex components Friends – American swing-grass. special meaning. unusual rocks. Having long of color and form. “I love gardening, and 12:30 Blue-Eyed Girl – old time “I have always been fas- since earned her Graduate am always amazed at the way all the varied mountain music. cinated by the endless variety Gemologist degree from colors and textures of flowers and foliage of hues and combinations the Gemological Institute work together aesthetically. Their differ- 2 p.m. Common Ground – Old Fort of color found throughout of America, she scientifi- ences don’t conflict, but rather play on their mountain music. nature” explains Susan. “The cally searches for gemstones common patterns and shapes. This is very 4 p.m. Zephyr Lightening Bolt bright autumn foliage brings of the finest quality from much apparent in the harmonious fall pan- to mind many of the vibrant around the world. “My orama of mountains and brightly painted Sunday, October 24 colors found in the natural 14 kt. yellow gold training as a gemologist has trees. I try to capture this essence of natural gemstones I work with each multicolored Sapphire proved invaluable in help- form, which I regard as elegant simplic- 11 a.m. Paul’s Creek Band – folk, pendant. day when making jewelry. ing me to understand the ity, in my work. Because Asian art forms bluegrass and more. The golden yellows of sapphires, the vivid fundamental properties of gemstones and embody this principle, they have been an 12:30 The Fabulous Guildenaires oranges of spessartite garnets, (which are the importance of such factors as cut and important stylistic influence,” states Susan. – old-time mountain music. sometimes referred to as mandarin gar- clarity in bringing out the beauty they have When not engaged at her workbench 2 p.m. Buncombe Turnpike nets), the vibrant purplish reds of rhodo- to offer,” she says. “And in thirty years as a creating jewelry, Susan works with cli- – bluegrass. lite garnets, and the pinks and greens of professional goldsmith I have come to know ents to custom design the jewelry of their tourmalines all capture the colors of fall. which cutters do the best job of maximiz- dreams. “I enjoy listening to customers 3:30 p.m. Split Rail – Strong vocal Even the intense bright green of tsavorite ing the brilliance of the stones they cut. So harmony is their trademark. Continued on page 18

Vol. 14, No. 2 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — October 2010 7

prints color RAPID RIVER ARTS performance

Asheville Lyric Opera’s “Something Beautiful” Season opens with Mozart’s Magic Flute

sheville Lyric Opera’s simple BY DAVID STARKEY theme for their 12th Season is Something debut will be Asheville Beautiful, which Symphony conductor Dan- givesA them ample creative iel Meyer. freedom to make their Returning to direct upcoming production of the opera will be Jon Mozart’s Magic Flute some- Truitt, whose career as a thing not only beautiful, but director began after his truly extraordinary. performances with many “Asheville citizens are top opera companies across blessed with four gorgeous the U.S. He is currently seasons every year making Director of Opera at the this a place of immense natural beauty,” University of Evansville and founder of the says ALO General and Artistic director, Crested Butte Music Festival Opera Young David Craig Starkey, adding, “This beauty Artist Program. is the at the heart of our production of the Audiences will recognize soprano Co- Magic Flute and it inspires us to keep sing- lette Boudreaux as Pamina, Elizabeth Truitt ing all year long!” as the First Lady and area-singers Marissa With support from season sponsors Beck and Roberto Flores who all return Harry’s Cadillac and The Grand Bohemi- to Asheville Lyric Opera after past appear- an Hotel, Asheville Lyric Opera will pres- ances. Desiree Wattelet (recently heard with ent Mozart’s Magic Flute, October 8 and Austin Lyric Opera) and Crystal McDaniel 9 at 8 p.m. at Diana Wortham Theatre. of Selby, NC will be making their Ashe- The production features many performers ville Lyric Opera debuts along with Scott from across the United States as well as Wichael (who has been heard with compa- great local talent. nies such as Opera Omaha) and bass, Dan The Magic Flute, which was premiered Cole (Opera Theatre of St. Louis, Opera to great acclaim in 1791 tells of the story of Boston, Sarasota Opera, etc.) from Colum- Enjoy Great Savings, Service and Benefits … the journey of two young men, Tamino and bia, SC as Sarastro. with the Papageno, as they search for love and wis- ALO is thrilled to be working with dom. They encounter mystical characters conductor Daniel Meyer, who in addi- AARP Auto & Home Insurance Program who alternately assist them and hinder them tion to his position as music director of as they voyage from darkness, represented the Asheville Symphony is music director from The Hartford. by the Queen of the Night, into light, rep- of the Erie Philharmonic in Erie, PA and resented by priest-like Sarastro. In the end, former resident conductor of the Pitts- Call The Hartford Toll-Free Today after overcoming physical and psychological burgh Symphony. The opera will also trials they are united with their true loves, feature a new scenic design by local artist to Request Your FREE Quote: Pamina and Papagena. Amanda Waggoner, a recent graduate of the Their search for spiritual fulfillment North Carolina School of Arts in design. was inspired by the ideology of the Free- “The sheer magnitude of creative talent in 1-877-547-1373 CODE: 471103 masons and the enlightenment principal Asheville, which was impressive when I Monday-Friday, 7AM-11PM Eastern Time that reason, wisdom and nature would first came here twelve years ago, keeps on Saturday & Sunday, 8AM-6PM Eastern Time triumph over those who try to obscure growing and continues to amaze all of us the truth for their own gain. Both Eman- who live here,” says Starkey. Most AARP® members qualify for an immediate phone quote. uel Schikaneder, who, as director of the Asheville Lyric Opera promises that Please have your policy handy. Theater auf der Wieden, not only wrote Magic Flute will indeed be something the opera’s libretto but also premiered the beautiful for everyone! Tickets are available role of Papageno, and Wolfgang Amadeus and range from $29 to $52 with discounts Mozart were Freemasons. for children and students. In addition, sea- The opera was an immense success, son tickets may be purchased for the entire FREE Calculator/Clock! receiving hundreds of performances in the season at a major discount. Finally, ALO Take our savings challenge! See how much we can save 1790’s, and has remained one of the most will host a special Christmas concert at you over your current auto insurance, and you’ll receive this cherished works in the operatic repertoire. Diana Wortham Theatre on November 19, calculator/clock … just for requesting a quote. According to Opera America, it is the eighth on the eve of the Asheville Holiday Parade. most frequently performed opera in North This event will benefit ABCCM and their The AARP Automobile and Homeowners Insurance Program is underwritten by Hartford Fire Insurance Company and its affiliates, America. The opera, unique for its amazing holiday campaign for the community. Hartford Plaza, Hartford, CT 06155. CA License # 5152. In Washington, the Program is underwritten by Hartford Casualty Insurance Company. In Texas, The Program is underwritten by Southern County Mutual Insurance Company through Hartford accessibility to children and families, also Fire General Agency. Hartford Fire Insurance Company and its affiliates are not financially responsible for insurance products teaches valuable ethical lessons. underwritten and issued by Southern County Mutual Insurance Company. AARP and AARP Financial Inc. receive from The Hartford payments for AARP’s license of its intellectual property for use by The Hartford and for services rendered in connection with the Playing the featured roles of Tamino For tickets call the Diana Program. Amounts paid by The Hartford for this license are used for the general purposes of the Association and its members. and Papageno will be Scott Joiner, fresh iF AARP membership is required for Program eligibility in most states. Applicants are individually underwritten and some may not YOU Wortham Theatre Box Office qualify. Specific features, credits and discounts may vary and may not be available in all states in accordance with state filings and from his debut at Knoxville Opera, and at (828) 257-4530 or go to applicable law. The Program is currently unavailable in Massachusetts, Canada and U.S. Territories or Possessions. All first time Scott Guinn from New York City Opera. gO responders receive the free gift. Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery. The free gift offer is not available in Georgia, but residents www.ashevillelyric.org. may still request a quote. Homeowners product is not available in all areas, including the state of Florida. Making his exciting Asheville Lyric Opera

8 October 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 2 RAPID RIVER ARTS fine art The Art of Charitable Giving nO MatteR WHat YOU CaLL it, YOU Can give it!

s a life-long creative pro- BY GREG VINEYARD fessional and fine artist, With opportunities I’ve seen an such as these, and Aintellectual evolution so many more like where “art, craft and WNCAP, MANNA, design” are interwo- Our Voice, and on ven. Regardless of and on, it can be definition, all forms helpful to have a of art are beneficial Giving Plan. for charity. In West- 1) Build up inven- ern North Carolina, tory. Consider there are seemingly what percentage is as many needs as expendable, possibly there are people, so creating a smaller, the opportunities for lower price-point artists to give regu- Mountain Housing Opportunities item to balance larly abound. Door Design, detail. against bigger time- Sometimes all consumers. the requests can Sometimes all the requests feel overwhelming, 2) Evaluate appro- but there are really can feel overwhelming, but priateness. Does the only upsides: it feels there are really only upsides. cause fit a core value good; it’s self pro- or mission? motion; it’s a tax write-off; it brings good 3) Calendarize! Write-in your for-sure’s, karma, new clients, and new friends; you and leave some flexibility for new things, might fall in love. “We met at that fund- too. For those you can’t do but wish you raiser, remember, honey?” you could be could, add to the calendar for next year, saying forty years hence, reminiscing about noting when you would need to start a how you could’ve ended up sitting home project or earmark existing inventory. alone watching sci-fi re-runs on your gov- 4) Keep a “Charitable Causes” folder for ernment-issued brain implant video device. tracking activities for your bio and for pos- Or whatever. I NEVER watch sci-fi, so I sible tax deductions. couldn’t comment on Logan’s Run-type futures. (What do you MEAN you haven’t 5) Spread the word! If you can’t help this seen Logan’s Run?? Farrah’s in it!) time, your networking may raise another Moving on. Blackbird Frame & Art’s artist’s awareness. recent event for Brother Wolf Animal 6) Stay committed. As with shows and ex- Rescue was a great example about art and hibits, select the item, become unattached charity. It was an honor to participate be- to it and let it out into the universe to make cause I love animals almost as much as sci-fi some money for someone else. (Ooh! Remember “Muffett“ the mechanical dog from Battlestar Galactica?), and it was a Whether giving to a high-profile event good fit for my figurines. for an established non-profit, to school and Despite being S.A. (“Socially Awk- church events, or to a new venture, the ward”), I forced myself to opening night and giving of one’s art, craft and design is like rustled-up some scintillating conversations giving of oneself. Those supporters who with artists, art lovers, and volunteers. The love to buy art and help a good cause won’t experience reminded me that, just as one find it if you don’t put it out there. These major lesson in life is to show up, another is vast charitable opportunities are a part of to simply try to give when asked. what makes Asheville tick — and with a I’ve also been recently “door-obsessed”. little planning, it’s a manageable, rewarding When painting my door for Mountain and interactive process for creative types. Housing Opportunities’ annual “Doors of Asheville”, I wanted the base coat to be real house paint, which resulted in me reveal- greg vineyard is an artist ing publicly at Lowe’s that I didn’t know and creative consultant how to buy it. I got some “and you’re HOW in asheville’s River arts district. He and his OLD??” sideways glances, but everyone Ceramics for Contemplation was helpful, nonetheless. Who knew Sun & Connectivity can be found Shower Yellow wasn’t just sitting on the at Constance Williams gallery, 9 Riverside shelf waiting for the day I decided I wanted dr. Open every day from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. some? Everyone but me, apparently! visit www.CURvestudiosnC.com.

Vol. 14, No. 2 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — October 2010 9 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE spinning discs

The advent of cool weather brings to us a diverse selection of albums CD Reviews guaranteed to challenge your notions of music and (hopefully) expand your horizons. Just be sure to expand them at any one of our local independently by James Cassara owned record stores. They’re the ones who help keep the music real!

Richard Thompson The gut bucket stomping opener “Branded” let Glow be your splendid introduction to a Dream Attic is a powerhouse rocker, while the ballad world of luminescent pop matched by few Shout! Factory “Drifting Apart” features harmonies that and surpassed by fewer. ****1/2 would do the Louvin Brothers proud. Records “Hangman,” co-written with Johnny John Mayall Richard Thomp- Cash, is the sort of old school haunting that son has never made a truly bad album but the Man in Black effortlessly put forth. Stu- Blues Express he certainly has made a few devoid of any art doesn’t quite muster the necessary vocal Mayall Archives real life — the interminably sluggish You? tremor, but he comes closer than anyone Recordings Me? Us? springs readily to mind — but as I can think of. Perhaps the most moving Having largely any follower will attest it has been on stage tribute is “Hummingbyrd,” an instrumental retired from the road (at nearly 80 years where he’s at his most comfortable and best. number that pays tribute to the guitar ge- of age) John Mayall has begun plowing Having now released a number of nius Clarence White. It is amongst the most through what must be tens of thousands of limited-run live discs through his website, moving four minutes I’ve heard this year. hours of live recordings and releasing them as well as several “proper” live albums, Ghost Train is among Stuart’s best via his web site. Thompson recognizes how much his fans efforts yet which, considering the high ex- The ten tracks on Blues Express come love the in-concert stuff. pectations that anticipate any of his records, from a variety of times and places, seven Dream Attic is an attempt to capture is saying something. **** concerts with three different bands recorded both worlds in one; it’s a collection of new between 1972 and 1982. So while the ar- songs recorded in front of audiences earlier rangements and instrumentation vary some- this year. There is a surprising unity here Richard Barone what Mayall remains the unifying force that as Thompson and his band (Pete Zorn on Glow keeps things intact. guitar and sax, Joel Zifkin on violin and Bar None Records Among the highlights are a rollick- mandolin, Taras Prodaniuk on bass and After a nearly two de- ing 1980 take of “Gone from the Canyon” Michael Jerome on drums) perform. cade period of missing in as well as a terse “Rolling with the Blues,” The concept works best on the anti- action (at least as far as making records go) both featuring the Bluesbreakers reunion Wall Street anthem “The Money Shuffle” former Bongos front man Barone returns with Mick Taylor and John McVie. The but tends to drag a bit with the slower, more with a sparkling collection of new material. lengthy “Sad to be Alone” highlights his intimate numbers. But the band hums with Barone has kept busy producing other short-lived trio with Johnny Mark and John muscularity: Thompson’s vocals and guitar artists, contributing to a number of tribute Almond (featuring trumpet and twin saxes) playing have rarely sounded better, and albums, and writing for theatre. But it took from 1973, a tantalizing glimpse of what for the most part Dream Attic captures the a chance meeting with famed T Rex and could have been another brilliant chapter in mood. It would be hard to imagine his fans David Bowie producer Tony Visconti to Mayall’s career. wanting things any different. ***1/2 lure him back into the studio. While it’s a Mayall purists may demand entire con- bit of an unlikely pairing it manages to cou- certs but for now these revisits are a wealth Marty Stuart ple Barone’s knack for perfectly constructed of musical history and aural delight. **** Ghost Train: The four minute pop songs with Visconti’s hit making acumen. Studio B Sessions Bobby Charles Given Visconti’s involvement it might Destined to wear be easy to assume Glow is “Barone Gone See You Later, the crown as contempo- all Ziggy Stardust” but such is not the Alligator rary country music’s most venerated link case. While there are certainly Glam Rock Bear Family to tradition, Marty Stuart has spent most influences in place (most notably in a cover Records of his life making records that reflect both of Marc Bolan’s “Girl”) and the cover art “I’d like to his willingness to accept that charge and his does feature Barone wearing a Lou Reed thank Bobby Charles for the hat.” Those desire to challenge it. Transformer era t-shirt and glitter jacket, grateful words, uttered by the late singer Ghost Train, his first studio album it’s more of a wink than a nod. Nicolette Larson as she shared a 1977 stage since the killer twin offerings of 2005’s Glow is a wholly logical extension of with Neil Young, was my first introduction Soul’s Chapel and Badlands was partly the direction Barone has been taking all to this Louisiana born swamp pop master. formed by Stuart’s reaction to the devasta- along; richly layered vocals, wildly varied Intrigued by that single utterance I immedi- tion that hurricane Katrina wreaked on (and occasionally incongruous) instrumen- ately began digging through his music; after New Orleans; upon seeing the destruction tation, and a surplus of melodic hooks. all if Larson — and by proximity Young Stuart felt moved to address his own need From the luminous orchestral pop of — were fans then something must be up. to shake things up, to replicate in the studio the title track to the Latin infused beat of Had this collection existed then I would the energy he so readily captured on stage. “1-2-3… Infinity” the album runs the range have had to dig no further. See You Later The 14 songs that resulted, largely of his talents. In “Sanctified” it also gives collects all 28 sides Charles cut for Chess recorded at the famed RCA Studio B in us a glimpse of the artist as rocker, a side of Records between 1955 and 1961. None Nashville, are among the strongest tracks Barone we don’t see nearly often enough. were recorded for albums. he has yet assembled in one place. Stuart So while it has been far too long since we’ve Charles (born Robert Guidry) was a bit wrote or co-wrote all but three. Backed by last heard from him, some things are worth of a prodigy when he made his first records a stalwart band, guitarist Kenny Vaughan, waiting 17 years for. It’s entirely possible at the age of 17. “See You Later, Alligator” drummer Harry Stinson, and bassist Paul those reading this review have never even later became a hit for Bill Haley and The Martin, Stuart plays and sings his heart out. heard of Richard Barone. If that is the case Comets but to hear this remarkably dif- There is not a weak track in the bunch. ‘CD’s’ continued on next page

10 October 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 2 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE what’s happening

‘CD’s’ continued from page 10 BY JAMES CASSARA ferent version is an epiphany; it jumps and Van Dyke Parks at Moogfest swings in ways Haley’s never could. The same holds true of a trio of songs n a world where the curious nomen- needed a lyricist who producer/arranger (“Why Did You Leave,” “Watch It Sprock- clature of “genius” is all too freely could match the daring while simultaneously et,” and “Don’t You Know I Love You (You bandied about, Van Dyke Parks is the new music; this resulted working on dozens of Know I Love You)” cut with blues master genuine article. As a session musi- in their collaboration on film scores. Finally, in Willie Dixon. The band plays with gleeful I cian, composer, arranger, lyricist, the SMiLE album. 1984 came the brilliant abandon and absolute recklessness; one can and singer, he’s contributed significantly Initially, only Jump!, a concept album easily imagine the needle popping off the to several decades’ worth of inimitable “Heroes and Villains” (and proposed stage vinyl while Charles leads them along. masterpieces credited to other artists, as emerged from their musical) based on the With the exception of one other well as releasing several lesser known but work together as a mod- Uncle Remus tales of number (“No More (Ain’t Gonna Do It no less brilliant solo albums. est (but well loved) hit Joel Chandler Harris. No More)”) the remaining songs were Born in Hattiesburg, MS in 1941, single and the project It was followed in 1989 cut down in Louisiana, produced by Paul Parks was a musical prodigy, attending languished over Wilson’s worsening by Tokyo Rose, which concerned the state Gayten and feature the likes of drummer the American Boychoir School in Princ- emotional and mental state in 1967. of American-Japanese relations. Earl Palmer, tenor boss Lee Allen, baritone eton, NJ where he studied clarinet while Fragments and pieces of the project Park and Wilson reunited in 1995 man Alvin “Red” Tyler, bassist Frank Fields, working as a child actor (he co-starred turned up on ensuing albums. for the somewhat disappointing Orange and pianist Edward Frank. One of the most in the 1953 comedy series Bonino) and In 1967 Parks signed to the Warner Crate Art but the two would regain their fascinating tracks is the previously undis- worked in movies, including Grace Bros. label as a producer, arranger, and collective magic in the next decade to covered “I’d Like to Know” from March of Kelly’s final film, The Swan (1958). But solo artist. The music he created during complete a realization of SMiLE with 1961, featuring a young Allen Toussaint and music was his first love. this fertile period is some of the most new recordings in 2004. Two years later, an even younger Dr. John! Parks studied at the Carnegie Insti- stunning of any era, ingeniously pioneer- Parks began contributing lyrics to an- With detailed and authoritative liner tute and majored in music at the Uni- ing the moog synthesizer with such acts as other Brian Wilson project, That Lucky notes by scholar Rick Coleman and a bevy versity of Pennsylvania. In 1964, a year Harpers Bizarre. Old Sun, as well as working with such of rare photos, See You Later, Alligator looks after graduating, he was signed to MGM For Warner’s sister label, Reprise Re- new bands as Silver Chair. as good as it sounds. It’s an indispensable Records, releasing a single that, while cords, Parks released his own Song Cycle, Now approaching 70, Parks remains introduction to both Charles’ music and the commercially unsuccessful, attracted the a debut album that was the very definition an innovator of the highest order, one historic New Orleans roots rock & roll and attention of a young Stephen Stills. The of the word “eclectic,” incorporating folk, whose recordings seem as fresh and invigo- rhythm & blues scene. Charles passed away two briefly played together before Parks classical, Broadway, ragtime, jazz, ‘50s rating as the music he continues to make. early this year but, thanks to Bear Family became a highly sought after session mu- pop, and rock & roll influences. It won Records his music lives on. **** sician, working with everyone from Sonny the Record of the Year Award from High & Cher to Paul Revere & the Raiders. Fidelity/Stereo Review. Parks released his Van Dyke Parks as part of On the Byrds’ Fifth Dimension album second album, Discover America in 1972. iF Asheville Moogfest 2010, Do It Again: One he played the Hammond B-3 organ, and It explored Parks’ fascination with Trini- YOU a celebration of the life and Man’s Quest to he also played keyboards on sessions for dadian music and also received tremen- gO accomplishments of Robert Reunite the Kinks Judy Collins and Tim Buckley. Through dous critical praise. Moog, October 29-31. Film documentary producer Terry Melcher, Parks was intro- 1976’s Clang of the Yankee Reaper, Specific times and locations duced to Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys. another eclectic collection, followed, to be announced. For more information There is something go to www.moogfest.net. deliriously wonderful A prodigiously gifted composer, Wilson but Parks maintained his “day job” as about pop culture fanat- ics, and journalist Geoff Edgers ranks among the most passionate. The odds of getting broth- ers Ray and Dave Davies to even consider BY JAMES CASSARA such a proposition, are akin to hitting the FReeBO and tHe COFFee HOUSe lottery. In true devotee fashion Edgers he veteran musician the world somehow find a niche in today’s and a possibility to connect refuses to concede. knows as Freebo has been a col- ever shrinking market. with far-reaching audiences of This self-made film chronicles his pur- laborator and sideman for everyone From 1999’s “The End Of kindred musical spirits, to pub- suit in starkly unflattering terms, revealing T from Bonnie Raitt and John Mayall The Beginning” through 2002’s licize, promote, and distribute his own neurosis as well as the mutual dis- to Crosby, Stills and Nash. But the world “Dog People” (songs devoted the music. CDs are still with trust between the two principal musicians. of session playing, while lucrative, is both to man’s best friend) up to his us, but digital downloading and As he hits one roadblock after another demanding and at times demeaning. latest effort “Before The Separa- distribution is the wave of the Edgers faces his depleted bank account and For the fiercely independent Freebo tion”, Freebo has long tapped future; a future that is already mounting marital stress with equal parts (his birth name is a closely guarded secret) into the zeitgeist of post-millennial Amer- here. This whole process does not require forestalling and self delusion. Interviews the best, nay the only, way to make such ica. He draws on his love of blues, rock, the huge sums of money once doled out with Sting, Paul Weller, Zooey Deschanel, a curious existence succeed was to use it soul and the spirit of classic folk music to by the dinosaur record companies of old.” Peter Buck, Robyn Hitchcock (several of to full advantage — balancing playing for create a powerfully haunting landscape, It’s that sort of self determination that whom agree to strum a few bars with the others with making music for himself. one which balances biting cynicism with has kept him in the game for so long, do- film maker) and original Kinks producer Shel Thus, as a solo performer, he has evolved undeterred optimism. ing it his way and on his own terms. Talmy enliven the proceedings, but the real into a powerful voice of social conscious- Freebo is currently putting the finish- stars are the songs Edgers so deeply loves. ness, devoting his time to making music ing touches on a still untitled forthcoming You will too, and while Edgers is and, in the process, making a difference. CD. “As with my previous CDs, I will Freebo at The Mountain ultimately unsuccessful in his efforts (as we One of the industry’s most in-de- record, manufacture, and distribute my iF Spirit Coffeehouse hosted know all along he will be) such foregone mand session players, Freebo has contin- new one on my own label, PoppaboMu- YOU by UU of Asheville at conclusions in no way diminish the un- ued to push his creative envelope with sic. But this time, I am going to market it gO 1 Edwin Place. Sunday, bridled affection that, when it comes to our a string of acclaimed solo CDs: self- on a wider level,” he proclaims. October 10. Doors open at favorite bands, all of us share. **** produced and self-financed albums that “The Internet has provided the tools 6:30 p.m. music starts at 7.

Vol. 14, No. 2 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — October 2010 11 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE thoreau’s garden Favorite Ferns for the Carolinas n the geologic timetable, ferns are very old and were in existence long before BY PETER LOEWER the more sophisticated annuals, perenni- als, grasses, shrubs, trees, and, of course, The following ferns humans appeared upon the earth. are among my favorites I Ferns grow from crowns or and are all natives of the creeping rootstocks that are properly called Carolinas. rhizomes. Except for one little annual fern (Anogramma leptophylla) discovered about Christmas Ferns a hundred years ago on the Channel Islands, The Christmas fern the rest of the fern family are perennials. (Polystichum acrosti- The fern stalk, or stem, is prop- choides) stays green for erly called a stipe and supports the leaf or the holidays and cut leaflets usually called pinnae, because they fronds make excellent resemble a feather. The stipes are often flat decorations. The genus or concave in the front, rounded in back, name is from poly, for and covered with hairs, especially when the “many,” and stichos, for stalks are young. “row,” referring to the Fern leaves are called fronds or blades spore cases appearing and once you get to know the frond shapes in several rows on the that vary from simple to complex, you leaflet undersides. quickly learn how to identify various spe- It’s the sterile leaves cies. Ferns also have two kinds of leaves: that are evergreen (with- Sterile leaves are engineered to employ out the sori) while the photosynthesis while fertile leaves just bear fertile leaves wither after Maidenhair Fern – Illustration by Peter Loewer spores, but like some folks are ambidex- spores ripen. These ferns trous, some fern fronds do both. are welcome sights especially against a back- Maidenhair Ferns Fern spores are so tiny they are close ground of a light snowfall. The common to invisible to the naked eye and back in name of Christmas fern not only refers to Maidenhair ferns (Adiantum peda- the Middle Ages many people thought that the evergreen habit, but to the resemblance tum) are among the most beautiful of our spores granted invisibility to those in the of the individual leaflets to Christmas stock- native ferns because they grace any garden know. Shakespeare notes this belief when in ings. that chooses to harbor their charms. The Henry IV, he pens “We have the receipt of Upright, leathery blades grow in common name is open to debate as some fern seed, we walk invisible.” clusters from a fibrous crown and are often think it refers to the slender and shiny The word fiddlehead refers to the found in colonies where soil conditions black stalks while other attribute it to the young, unfurling leaves of the true ferns. In are right. The total length of the evergreen fine fibrous roots. The genus name is from spring the new fronds are tightly coiled and blades is between two and sometimes, three the Greek adiantos, meaning “not too resemble the head of a violin or the top of a feet. They all have a welcome place in my wet,” for, when it rains, the droplets run bishop’s crosier. garden, either as specimen plants or planted across the fronds like beads of mercury In general, ferns prefer well-drained with other neighboring perennials. while the blades remain dry. The species soil that contains plenty of organic matter. Although often considered a northern means ‘foot-like’ referring to the bird-foot That’s why so many can live in the woods, fern, these plants are found down to the branching of the fronds. underneath the canopy of tall trees, thriving Gulf of Mexico and up to the far reaches of Maidenhairs grow in clumps and the in the rich soil provided by many years of Canada. It’s probably the rigors of the ice- fronds seem to hover over the ground falling leaves. age that brought the plants south. without any visible means of support, just moving hither, thither, and yon in the gentlest of breezes. Remember, these ferns, while tolerat- ing a touch of sun, hate exceedingly dry Come Jump Into Hey Day BY KIMBERLY BREWSTER sites. So if rains refuse to fall, remember the garden hose. here is fun for the whole family at A new exhibit, benefit the Friends of the Hey Day, with music on the main Wild Inspirations, will WNC Nature Center. stage, as well as clogging, balloon include the work of iF YOU gO: The Friends peter Loewer, sculpting and storytelling. Chil- local artists and focus T of the WNC Nature shown here, dren’s activities and educational programs especially on the native Center host their 34th examining the abound and include the Pee Wee Mine, animals and plants at the Annual Hey Day, blossoms of cake walks, face painting, pumpkin paint- Nature Center. Photographers and artists Saturday, October 9, from 10 a.m. to early-blooming ing, arts and crafts, and games. are donating matted photos and small 4 p.m. at the Western North Carolina Lenten roses, Plus, guests can spend the day visit- pieces of art and jewelry as part of the Nature Center, 75 Gashes Creek Road is a well- ing the Nature Center residents: wolves, Friends’ fundraising effort. in east Asheville. $8 for adults, $6 for known writer Cody and Shalimar; our otters, Olive and Celebrate the fall, and support The Asheville city residents (must show ID), $4 and botanical artist who has written and Obi Wan; plus Nibbles, our famous and Nature Center while enjoying fun with for children, and FREE to members of the illustrated more than twenty-five books on beloved groundhog. your family at Hey Day! All proceeds Friends of the Nature Center. natural history over the past thirty years.

12 October 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 2 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.

The American ∑∑∑ been a more interest- did them in because the small independent edits the film for maximum impact without Short Take: Well meaning ing, reflective film in producers could no longer compete. That overdoing it. He knows that his material is but ill-advised attempt the vein of I am Love. may be true but this summer has seen a good enough without him having to visu- by George Clooney to At times it seemed return to the classic B movie with the not- ally compensate for it. Devil will eventually recreate the existential like a George Clooney so-good Piranha 3-D (reviewed last month become a DVD favorite and possibly a cult European Art cinema of vanity project as there in RR) and the absolutely terrific Devil. classic but right now you have the opportu- the 1970s. are numerous scenes Much has been made about the pro- nity to say that you saw it in a theater when of him doing push-ups motional campaign which makes use of M. it was first released. ReeL taKe: I have to give and pull-ups which Night Shyamalan’s name in the trailers and George Clooney credit. In- Rated PG-13 for disturbing images, thematic ma- George Clooney plays a show off his slimmed TV ads. These would lead you to believe terial, and language involving sexual references. between the blockbusters, down physique. That that he wrote and directed the film when he uses his stardom to make professional hitman questioning REVIEW BY CHIP KAUFMANN his way of life in The American. combined with an in fact he only co-produced it and came the personalized projects ever present focus on up with the original story idea. Because of that he wants to make. George’s big soulful eyes and I was quietly Shyamalan’s current reputation, this has had Sometimes they work (Up in the Air, Mi- saying to myself “enough already!” My wife, a mostly negative effect on how audiences chael Clayton), sometimes they don’t (So- who is a big George Clooney fan, disliked perceive the film. But don’t let that stop you laris, The Good German). Put The Ameri- the movie even more than I did and that from seeing it, for Devil is one of the best can in the latter category. I was prepared to proved to be the final nail in the coffin. B movies to come along in quite awhile. like this movie but I was ultimately bored Fortunately, outside of George, there That’s B movie, not an indie feature, for the to tears. That doesn’t make it a bad film but are no name stars in this movie and it only two are not the same thing the pacing, the script, and the overemphasis cost $20 million to make. After a big opening The plot couldn’t be simpler. There are on George’s brooding eyes, do. weekend, revenues have been rapidly declin- 5 people stuck in an elevator, one of them The storyline is deliberately bare bones ing due to word of mouth, but thanks to the is the Devil who slowly proceeds to kill the and familiar. Professional hitman Cloo- low budget, George & Co will actually make others. The point is to try and figure out ney plans to retire after one last job but money on the film. While I’m happy for which one is the Devil and why does he/she his employers want him dead. Most of the him, it’s going to take another blockbuster to want these people? You won’t have much movie takes place in a small Italian village restore his luster among his fans. time to do it for in classic B movie fashion, Paul Dano and Kevin Kline await where George has gone to build a custom their elderly escorts in the quirky Rated R for violence, sexual content, and nudity. the picture is only 80 minutes long. weapon for a client. While working on it, In yet another example of deliberate comedy-drama The Extra Man. REVIEW BY CHIP KAUFMANN he becomes involved with a local prostitute marketing misleading, the trailers lead you (Violante Placido) and reflects endlessly on to believe that the film is much The Extra Man ∑∑∑ his past life with the help of the local village ∑∑∑∑ Devil more violent than it actually is. Short Take: Offbeat movie about really priest (Paolo Bonicelli). The client shows Short Take: A genuine This will annoy fans of the hard- quirky characters in New York City is up, his old boss shows up, there’s a final B movie that delivers core stuff but if you appreciate well acted but is poorly paced and has showdown, the end. the goods in an old old-fashioned scare thrills rather to work hard to maintain interest. Anyone familiar with the European fashioned way. alienation cinema of the 1970s, like Michel- ReeL taKe: I really wanted to like The Ex- angelo Antonioni’s The Passenger or Jean- ReeL taKe: I was Trapped elevator passengers tra Man because I enjoy watching the film’s Luc Godard’s Tout Va Bien, will recognize reading an article Bokeem Woodbine and Bojana three principal actors (Kevin Kline, Paul Novakovic try to figure out what The American is trying to do. How- the other day where Dano, and John C. Reilly), although the plot someone asked Roger who is Satan in the underrated synopsis made it sound like another variation ever those movies were a product of their thriller Devil. times and have not aged well. Making a Corman, the celebrated on The Odd Couple. Unlike Neil Simon, B movie producer-di- there are no snappy dialogue exchanges movie like them at this time was not a good than loads of make-up and special idea especially when it was misleadingly rector who launched (although Kline has several choice lines) and the careers of Francis effects, then Devil is your kind of the quirkiness factor has been ratcheted up marketed as a Jason Bourne type thriller. movie. Think of it as an expanded Most of the blame for this can be laid Ford Coppola, James to such a degree that some people may be Cameron, and Martin Twilight Zone episode and you put off by it. The film is being marketed as a at the feet of director Anton Corbijn. This won’t be disappointed. is his first stab at a mainstream film after Scorsese, what hap- comedy but it just barely qualifies. pened to the B movie? The no name cast delivers be- A young man (Paul Dano) fired from a series of videos and a biographical film cause we have no expectations of them. The about tragic rock singer Ian Curtis (Con- Corman replied that the major studios his job as a teacher at a New England prep started making A budget pictures of B screenplay is tight and easy to follow, with a school for being caught with women’s trol). Although I’m sure it was a conscious handful of memorable lines and situations. choice, the snail like pace and lack of movie material (Jaws, Star Wars). That clothing, comes to New York and winds coupled with the loss of the drive-in market Director John Erick Dowdle (Quarantine) editing in key scenes ruin what could have ‘Movies’ continued on page 14

Vol. 14, No. 2 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — October 2010 1 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE film reviews

theatre directory intelligent wit and than the abstinent Christians. But if ∑∑∑∑ asheville pizza & Brewing Company Easy A has many literary you’re not overly touchy about stereo- Movieline (828) 254-1281 Easy A is basically and cinematic ref- types, then the Christian group is very www.ashevillepizza.com a modern-day adaption erences. Some of funny. But, as humorous as parts of the of Hawthorne’s The the humor is remi- movie are, not all of it is amusing and it Beaucatcher Cinemas (asheville) Scarlet Letter with one niscent of Mean does have problems. Movieline (828) 298-1234 big difference — the Girls — which I Some of the attempts at humor seem Biltmore grande protagonist in Easy A consider to be one too obvious, as if the writers realized 1-800-FANDANGO #4010 has not actually com- of the best satires there hadn’t been a funny line in a while www.REGmovies.com mitted any adultery. of teenage girls and squeezed one in. The first quarter Carmike 10 (asheville) When an unpopu- ever. of the movie drags a little, and it is never Movieline (828) 298-4452 lar high school student Emma Stone made clear why Olive, who is intelligent www.carmike.com named Olive (Emma is very good as and confident, would want to pretend to Emma Stone and Dan Byrd share a Carolina Cinemas Stone) tells a lie about Olive. Her upbeat prostitute herself. losing her virginity, her laugh in Easy A, a comic updating energy keeps the If you enjoy teenage movies, then (828) 274-9500 of The Scarlet Letter. www.carolinacinemas.com life changes very quickly movie going, and you should definitely see Easy A. It has and not for the better. She starts to pre- she does teenage sarcasm perfectly. Aman- elements that can be enjoyed by both Cinebarre (asheville) tend to sleep with guys in her school in da Bynes, who plays Olive’s arch-enemy, teenagers and adults. My mother saw it www.cinebarre.com exchange for money and gift cards. Olive Marianne, a stuck up Christian girl, is also with me, and she was chuckling at parts the Falls theatre (Brevard) soon becomes known as the high school very entertaining. However, the portrayal of it. While it’s not a flawless film, there Movieline (828) 883-2200 trollop, but as her odious fame continues of the Christian club are some good laughs in Fine arts theatre (asheville) to grow, Olive begins to regret ever lying at their high school it, and in general Easy A Movieline (828) 232-1536 and hates herself for what she’s done. is overly stereotypical has a good message for www.fineartstheatre.com But you’re not really a tramp, if your and could easily offend teen young adults. reputation is made up of lies, right? some viewers because Flat Rock theatre (Flat Rock) Rated PG-13 for thematic Easy A is one of the best teen Olive — the supposed RevieW elements involving teenage Movieline (828) 697-2463 comedies to come out in quite awhile. school slut—is shown www.flatrockcinema.com sexuality, language, and drug Despite the subject matter, it contains to be a better person by Clara Sofia material. Four Seasons (Hendersonville) Movieline (828) 693-8989 Smoky Mountain Cinema (Waynesville) Movieline (828) 452-9091 problems I mentioned earlier keep co-di- story of a hermit in the rural south who willing and creative collaborator in Frank rectors Shari Springer Berman and Robert threw his own funeral in 1938. How much Quinn (Bill Murray), the local undertaker Pulcini from really pulling it off like they did of the story is true matters not. It’s the for whom business is very slow. with American Splendor (2003). Although it idea of the story that is so much fun and What ensues is a wonderful tale of man ‘Movies’ continued from page 13 is certainly a much better and more interest- screenwriters Chris Provenzano and C. coming to grips with his past, a story of ing film than The Nanny Diaries (2007). Gaby Mitchell have a lot of fun getting to love and forgiveness, and a story of an old up living in a tiny apartment with eccentric the heart of that idea. man forging new and interesting friend- ex-playwright (Kline) whose temperament Rated R for some sexual content. ships in his last days. The time period, the is naturally grouchy and acerbic. Kline now REVIEW BY CHIP KAUFMANN mystique of the mysterious hermit, and the makes his living as an “extra man” which allure of a chance to win the old codger’s means he accompanies rich older women ∑∑∑∑ Get Low hundreds of acres (as told through old on evening outings. Dano gets a job at an Short Take: A well-storied hermit timey radio) adds to the fun. environmental publication where he meets a decides he wants to hold a funeral for The dialogue is great fun; Bill Murray nice girl (Katie Holmes) but first must deal himself while he’s still above ground. – of course – has some delightful zingers, with his “issues”. Rounding out the cast is but there is good material throughout. First John C. Reilly as Kline’s bizarre neighbor ReeL taKe: Get Low is not a great movie time feature film director Aaron Schneider who looks like a younger version of the Ma- or even a movie of huge importance by some stumbles awkwardly only occasionally in the harishi (the Indian founder of Transcenden- standards. It is a little film driven by a good proceedings, but that is compensated for by tal Meditation) and speaks in a high helium storytelling, the merits of its actors, and a his actors. Duvall leads a perfect ensemble like voice (which drove me crazy). whole lot of heart (not in cloying Hallmark that features the aforementioned Bill Mur- There were times as I was watching The Channel way, but in a charming, understated Robert Duvall, Lucas Black and ray as well as Sissy Spacek, Bill Cobbs and Extra Man that I was reminded of certain and sincere way). It’s the kind of filmmak- Bill Murray in Get Low. Lucas Black. I personally found the scenes anti-establishment comedies of the 1970s, ing we don’t see much of these days and I, Felix Bush has been living in a log between Black and Duvall and Black, Mur- in particular Harold and Maude (Paul Dano for one, believe filmmakers and Hollywood cabin in the woods for forty years in an ray and Duvall particularly good. looks a lot like Bud Cort) and Harry and should take note of and pay attention to. exile of his own creation. He’s the kind of Get Low has been very well received Tonto (I kept seeing Art Carney in the Kevin During press junket interviews on hermit that becomes an urban (or in this but isn’t getting a whole lot of attention. I Kline role). John C. Reilly even reminded National Public Radio, Robert Duvall was case rural) legend. Townspeople tell all implore you, if you like a good story and me of Donald Sutherland in his hippie days. a delight to listen to. He truly loved this kinds of rumored stories about a beastly if you like any of these actors, see it in the These characters had a lot of potential, but story and obviously had a wonderful time recluse and kids dare to sneak a peek at him. theatre. This is the kind storytelling and poor pacing, and the occasional clunky transi- making this movie. His affection for the The truth is something only Felix and one filmmaking worth supporting. tion kept me from staying engaged for any character of Felix Bush shines through other living soul know. When he gets the great length of time and only reinforced how clearly in his portrayal, a performance sec- Rated PG-13 for some thematic material and notion of throwing himself a funeral party annoying I found these characters to be. ond only to his beloved Gus McCrae from brief violent content. while still alive, partially to see what other The opportunity was there for a really Lonesome Dove (his self confessed favorite REVIEW BY MICHELLE KEENAN folks have to say about him and partially to good movie, thanks to the original source character of his career). make things right (get low), he meets a very material (a novel by Jonathan Ames), but the Get Low is loosely based on a real life ‘Movies’ continued on page 15

14 October 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 2 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE film reviews

‘Movies’ continued from pg. 14 Mao’s Last Dancer ∑∑∑∑ Short Take: This Turning Point like story Hmr Fs: Bac 
 t Dea… Ag! of a Chinese defector is a real treat for t has been 30 years since England’s Unfortunately their other films BY CHIP KAUFMANN people who love ballet while others will Hammer Films last released a new did not do as well and Hammer enjoy it too. film, but like Christopher Lee in so closed its doors for the first time many of their Dracula movies, they in 1937 while Exclusive contin- Shepherd, the company ceased have come back from the dead (again) ued to distribute other movies. production but never officially Iand, by the time you read this, they will In 1947 Enrique’s son went out of business. They have released Let Me In, a remake of the James Carreras joined the family survived by releasing their old 2008 Swedish vampire film Let the Right business and decided to revive movies, which had a loyal and One In. Hammer has also signed Daniel the Hammer Films banner. He sizable fan base, to cable and Radcliffe, Harry Potter himself, to appear enlisted Anthony Hinds, the onto home video and by mar- in a brand new adaptation of a classic Brit- son of founder Will Hinds, and keting the Hammer name. ish ghost story, The Woman in Black. together they created Hammer’s In 2009, headed up by a Nowhere has this news been better first identity by concentrating group of investors, the firm was received than among old school horror on suspense and noir thrillers resurrected once more, and, film aficionados like myself who remem- while saving money by using old led by new studio head Simon ber the heyday of Hammer Films from abandoned country estates for Oakes, Hammer has three new Chinese dancer Li Cunxin (Chi Cao) and 1954-1973 when they were the most suc- their headquarters. releases planned. The Resident, the American dancer (Amanda Schull) cessful independent film company in the From 1948-1968 they oper- with longtime stalwart Chris- he falls in love with in the beautiful world. Intelligent science fiction, suspense ated Bray Studios on the banks topher Lee, has already opened Australian film Mao's Last Dancer. thrillers, and period horror films in color, of the Thames where their most in England, but the company is known as English Gothics, were their celebrated movies were made, pinning its international hopes ReeL taKe: The Australian director Bruce stock in trade. starting with The Curse of Fran- on Let Me In. If it is successful, Beresford has had an up and down career Actors Christopher Lee and Peter kenstein in 1957. The success along with The Woman in Black but after 30 years, he is still making movies. Cushing became movie icons along with of this film created a market for which also has the potential He is one of those directors who infuriate a generation of British performers. The the newly named English Gothic to be really big, then Hammer most film critics because he has no discern- company was essentially one big fam- genre and for horror movies in Films can truly said to be back able style. He is a consummate craftsman ily with the same technical personnel color. The follow-up film, Hor- from the dead and will hope- who adapts his skills to whatever material on every film along with a regular stock ror of Dracula with Christopher fully give new life to the British he is working on at the time. He has made company. This gave a consistency and a Lee, would make Hammer Films film industry as well. films as diverse as Breaker Morant, Crimes particular look to their movies which was both critically reviled and hugely To find out more about the of the Heart, King David and Black Robe. If a throwback to the Golden Age of Hol- successful in England and bring history of Hammer Films check there is one thing that characterizes his mov- lywood during the 1930s and 40s. them success in Europe and out The Hammer Story By ies, it is that they concern themselves with Hammer Films first saw the light America as well. Marcus Hearn and A History of Horrors: characters that we care about aided by terrific in 1934 when it was founded by English After 20 years of unprecedented suc- The Rise and Fall of the House of Ham- performances from his actors (Robert Duvall Music Hall artist Will Hinds whose stage cess, changing tastes toward more explicit mer by Denis Meikle. Both come with a in Tender Mercies, Morgan Freeman and name was Hammer. One year later he horror films (thanks to The Exorcist in complete rundown of the films that were Jessica Tandy in Driving Miss Daisy). and a Spanish immigrant named Enrique 1973), and a withdrawal of American made and include lots of photographs. Mao’s Last Dancer is based on the real Carrerras created Exclusive Films to act as financing and distribution, resulted in Speaking of photographs, a coffee table life story of Chinese dancer Li Cunxin who a distributor. That same year they made Hammer’s decline and fall. After the book of eye popping photos called Ham- defected to the West in 1981 while study- and released The Phantom Ship with Bela failure of the 1979 remake of The Lady mer Glamour, also by Marcus Hearn, is ing with the Houston Ballet. The film shifts Lugosi. It was a portent of things to come. Vanishes with Elliot Gould and Cybill available as well. back and forth between Li’s childhood where he is picked by the State to study ballet, and his time in America, which is supposed to be only for a few weeks. It is in America where he falls in love with an movie that you rarely see done this well, The Town ∑∑∑∑1/2 ery) as his backdrop to great effect and the American woman (Amanda Schull) and especially today. It proves that it is possible Short Take: A nearly flawless, extremely film is extremely well nuanced. Where oth- decides to defect. The Chinese embassy to take material like this and keep it from compelling Boston-based heist flick ers might create a story filled with stereo- attempts to prevent his defection and this descending into maudlin schmaltz and from Ben Affleck. typical caricatures, Affleck creates a very real becomes a major news story. cheap sentimentality if you have a capable story that shows the layers of those charac- screenwriter and a sensitive director. ReeL taKe: For all those Ben Affleck hat- ters, including their attributes and short- While there are a number of similarities ers and naysayers who thought Gone Baby to another mainstream movie about bal- Thirty years ago The Turning Point was a comings. They certainly earn our scorn and mainstream hit and was nominated for 11 Gone was a fluke, think again. The Town occasionally provoke our empathy, but are let, 1977’s The Turning Point, Mao’s Last is nearly perfect (and perfect is an overrated Dancer is its own film thanks to Beresford’s Academy Awards. Today Mao’s Last Danc- never the typical central figures of a movie, er is not even being given a wide release quality anyway). Moreover, The Town because the audience can never really root solid and restrained direction and (as one should solidify Affleck’s filmmaking status. expects from Beresford) a bevy of fine and will probably only be seen by people for them – good guy or bad guy. It’s one of who like ballet. That’s too bad because it’s He’s not only back but he’s looking good in the many aspects of this film that makes it performances led by Bruce Greenwood as front and especially in back of the camera. Houston Ballet impresario Ben Stevenson a really good movie which has the potential so compelling. to be a real crowd pleaser instead of just an Affleck directs the film deftly, deliver- Affleck leads the cast as Dougie Mac- and Chinese dancer Chi Cao as the title ing a story with a certain gritty stylization character. Beresford also continues his long- art house showcase. Ray, a man whose mother left when he was of English heist flicks of the 70’s, but with six and whose father was sent to the state time association with Australian actor Jack Rated PG for brief violent imagery, some sensu- a flourish of subtle artistic touches. He has Thompson (Breaker Morant) by casting him ality, and language. pen to serve five lifetimes when he was just once again used working class Boston (more a kid. With that pedigree it follows that he in a small but pivotal role. REVIEW BY CHIP KAUFMANN specifically Charlestown – an area famous This is an old fashioned, feel good for Bunker Hill, Old Ironsides and thiev- ‘Movies’ continued on page 16

Vol. 14, No. 2 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — October 2010 15 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE film reviews

‘Movies’ continued from page 15 striking performance on the heels of last organized crime boss of sorts. In his short year’s The Hurt Locker. He plays James time on screen, his character gives context turns out to be one of Charlestown’s finest, ‘Jem’ Coughlin, MacRay’s childhood best to the true story behind these people. A true running with a gang of his childhood friends friend and brother of sorts. Where the audi- journeyman’s actor, Postlethwaite digs into who work blue collar full time jobs and rob ence can envision a different life for Affleck Fergie with juicy finesse & brutal abandon. banks in their free time. The supporting cast had he been dealt a different hand, it cannot Rounding out the cast are Chris Cooper, is spot on. Jeremy Renner delivers another envision anything other than a life sentence John Hamm, Blake Lively, Slaine and Titus or an early grave for Jem. Welliver. All are integral to the ensemble and Rebecca Hall is Claire Keesey, the bank all deliver solid performances. manager of one of their hits and an unsus- The Town isn’t necessarily a likeable aSHeviLLe FiLM SOCietY pecting dupe. During one of their heists the film nor is it a film for all palates, but it OCtOBeR SCReeningS band of thieves takes the bank manager as is a fine piece of filmmaking. As someone a temporary hostage. After they release her Rebecca Hall and Ben Affleck who has gone through many a filmmaking The Asheville Film Society meets they decide that something should be done in The Town. and film writing class, I believe The Town Tuesday nights at 8 p.m. at Carolina to scare her enough to keep her from doing will be studied and held up as an exem- Asheville Cinema. Tuesday night anything that could incriminate them with on that he was one of her captors. This, plary and important piece of filmmaking screenings are free, but membership the FBI. Sensitive to Jem’s hot headed and of course, doesn’t bode well for a budding in coming years. is only $10 a year and benefits include trigger happy ways, MacRay decides that he relationship. When she does learn the truth, Rated R for strong violence, pervasive language, free members-only screenings, sneak should be the one to take care of the situa- her character could have been played as a some sexuality and drug use. tion. Much to his surprise he ends up dating victim but it is not. previews and events. REVIEW BY MICHELLE KEENAN her and falls in love with her, never letting Pete Postlethwaite is the local florist and October 5 Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown (1988, Pedro Almodovar) Chip Kaufmann’s Pick: Michelle Keenan’s Pick: October 12 “The Reptile” October dvd picks “Night of the Hunter” Gold Diggers of 1933 (1933, Mervyn LeRoy, Busby Berkeley) October 19 The Reptile (1966) preys upon widows (who happen to have a little money), marries and kills them. Gods and Monsters (1998, Bill Condon) Now that Hammer Films has re- turned to theaters with the nationwide He thinks he’s doing the good work of the October 26 release of Let Me In, (see featured article Lord by ridding the world of women who arouse men’s sexual desires. The letters The Cat and the Canary (1939, Elliott on page 15), and it will be Halloween at Nugent) with Bob Hope short film the end of the month, it seems only fitting L-O-V-E are tattooed on the fingers on Paree, Paree (1934, Roy Mack) to make my DVD pick one of their classic one hand and the letters H-A-T-E on the horror films from their previous incarna- other. Mitchum revels in every psychotic layer of Powell. tHe COMpLete MetROpOLiS tion. It was a difficult choice because there are so many fine films to choose from and When Powell sets his sights on one The Asheville Film being a Hammer Horror aficionado made young widow he gets more than he bar- Society is excited to gains for. He manages to woo, wed and it even harder. I finally settled on The Holmes mystery without Holmes and announce a special wack Willa Harper (Shelley Winters) in Reptile from 1966. Watson and with a horrific conclusion. screening of the fairly short order, but getting his hands on This film has all the qualities that It was shot in conjunction with another newly restored, the $10,000 that her late husband stole and make for a classic Hammer Film. There’s film, Plague of the Zombies, which uses complete Metropo- stashed proves more difficult. He may have a period setting, wonderful Technicolor the same sets and supporting cast. They lis, one night only on conned Willa and the townfolk, but young photography, a rousing and occasionally make an excellent double feature and can Friday, October 15, John Harper doesn’t trust the man of the eerie music score, solid performances be found locally or through Netflix. at 7:30 p.m. from the principal players, and, in this house / man of the cloth. Add an eccentric This new print of case, a most unusual monster. The script rifle-toting granny (Lillian Gish) to the mix Fritz Lang’s clas- also has some depth as it is a thinly veiled Night of the Hunter (1955) and Powell has met his match. sic 1927 sci-fi opus critique of Victorian England’s Colonial I don’t particularly care for people What makes Night of the Hunter so contains 25 minutes policies especially in India. who whistle, nor do I particularly trust disturbing and yet thoroughly absorb- of never before seen A man and his wife come to an people who hum hymns. It stems from ing is that it is primarily told through the footage, which for decades had been isolated Cornish village to investigate watching Night of the Hunter at way too perspective of Willa’s two small children, thought to be lost. That is until a the sudden death of his brother and to young an age. It’s certainly tame by today’s some of the sets even looking like cut outs 16mm print of the original cut of the inherit his cottage. They are treated with standards, but it isn’t gore or violence that from story books. Interestingly, Charles film was discovered in Argentina. suspicion and hostility by the locals who makes it so scary, it’s the emotional and Laughton directed the movie but didn’t This print of the film — which are in the grip of fear due to a number psychological impact of the film. like children so he had Mitchum direct has been making the rounds at film of recent deaths where the victims have Recently I had the opportunity to them. The lighting, sets and camera work festivals and other major venues over all been found with blackened faces and watch it again with a bunch of movie complete and escalate the suspenseful the year — is the most complete ver- foam covered mouths. Do the reclusive buffs. I wondered if it would hold up over tone of the story. sion available since the original run of landowner and his painfully shy daughter the years. I didn’t tremble in my bed in The Criterion Collection, who Metropolis in Germany 83 years ago. know anything about it? fear that night, but it still gave me chills, specialize in quality restorations, have More information and tickets The Reptile won’t scare you as it still kept me in suspense and I still found prepared a brand new release of this will both be available soon. The price comes from a different era of filmmak- it disturbing. Everyone agreed Night of American classic which will make it look for this event will be the same as any ing when atmosphere and suspense were the Hunter stands the test of time. creepier than ever. The DVD comes with normal theater ticket (and don’t forget, more important than visceral thrills but it In one of his favorite roles, Robert a host of extras including a booklet and AFS members receive $1 off the ticket will engage you and possibly even make Mitchum plays Harry Powell, a fanatical, background on the making of the film. price), but because this is a one time you shudder. Think of it as a Sherlock scripture-quoting, traveling preacher. He event, tickets will be limited.

16 October 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 2 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE stage preview

North Carolina Stage Company opens its ambitious 9th season with Angels in America: Millennium Approaches

he most NC Stage farce Boeing-Boeing in February, the ambitious co-founders haunting and mysterious One Flea American Charlie and Spare in April, and Tennessee Williams’ play of our Angie Flynn- classic tragedy The Glass Menagerie in time, Angels McIver have June (the last co-produced with Imme- Tin America, covers wanted to diate Theatre Project). Plus, the theatre the AIDS epidemic, produce An- presents a clever, intimate stage adapta- America’s shift to the gels for years. tion of It’s a Wonderful Life, opening political right, as well Its intimate the day after Thanksgiving. as grand themes of scenes are faith, loss, and iden- well-suited to Angels in America: tity. At the same time it is heartbreak- the theatre’s space and aesthetic, and iF Millennium ingly intimate, with indelible charac- its theatricality is an exciting chal- YOU Approaches runs ters – gay and straight, Mormon and lenge. The theatre has always focused gO October 13 – November Jewish, famous and forgotten. on language and story over spectacle 7, 2010. Tickets: $16 to North Carolina Stage Company – you won’t see any remounts of $28; $10 student rush is proud to open its 9th season with Mama Mia! on this stage. tickets. For tickets and more Angels in America, October 13 - No- In addition to Angels in America, information call (828) 239-0263 or Over 120 Channels vember 7, 2010. NC Stage offers the delicious French visit www.ncstage.org. $ .99 MONTH (For 1224 Months, Offer requires Agreement) FREE HD FOR LIFE! aCt’S SatURdaY FaMiLY SeRieS pReSentS $500 BONUS!$500 BONUS! (Offer requires Agreement and AutoPay with Paperless Billing) The Lady of Bullyburg and Jack’s Adventure in American History FREE for 3 Months - T right Star Touring The- T BY JENNY BUNN FREE Installation with DVR - Up to 6 Rooms! atre and Asheville Com- munity Theatre (ACT) Lowest Price Nationwide! face with some of the FREE HD DVR Upgrade! are proud to announce ($6/mo DVR service fee applies) most exciting people the launch of the “Sat- No Equipment to Buy! in our nation’s history! Burdays at ACT,” a new family George Washington, theatre series. Two Bright Star Betsy Ross, Thomas CALL NOW! 1-866-506-6195 productions will be performed MB33.5 Jefferson, Henry Ford on the ACT Mainstage on Digital Home Advantage plan requires 24-month agreement and credit qualification. If service is and Neil Armstrong are terminated before the end of agreement, a cancellation fee of $17.50/month remaining applies. Saturday, October 2. Programming credits apply during the first 12 months. $10/mo HD add-on fee waived for life of current just a few of the more account; requires Agreement, AutoPay with Paperless Billing. HBO/Showtime offer requires AutoPay The Lady of Bullyburg with Paperless Billing; credits apply during the first 3 months ($72 value); customer must downgrade or than 22 characters who then-current price applies. Requires continuous enrollment in AutoPay and Paperless Billing. Free (best for ages 3-10), an anti- Standard Professional Installation only. Monthly fees may apply based on type and number of come to life in this 45 receivers. All prices, packages and programming subject to change without notice. Local channels bullying fairytale, will take the may not be available in all areas. Additional restrictions may apply. First-time DISH Network customers minute adventure. Both only. Offer ends 9/28/10. HBO® and related channels and service marks are the property of Home Box stage at 10 a.m. At 2:30 p.m., the The Lady of Bullyburg. Jack’s Adventure in Office, Inc. SHOWTIME and related marks are registered trademarks of Showtime Networks Inc., a shows are interactive CBS Company. high-energy romp Jack’s Adven- American History. and offer the oppor- ture in American History (best for ages tunity for audience 6-12) will be performed. All tickets are members to participate onstage. $5 and are available for purchase at the Following the performance of door only. The Box Office will open The Lady of Bullyburg, audience For more information about an hour prior to each show. members are invited to meet the actors Bright Star touring theatre visit in the ACT lobby. Light snacks will be www.brightstartheatre.com. provided free of charge. “With the plays ticketed at fam- ily friendly prices, Saturdays at ACT is poised to become the perfect way iF Saturdays at ACT for families to experience live theatre YOU family series: together,” said David Ostergaard of gO October 2, 2010: Bright Star Touring Theatre. The Lady of Bullyburg The Lady of Bullyburg fol- at 10 a.m. lows Lady Kindness as she works to Jack’s Adventure in American Cara Levy is save her town from a visiting bully. History at 2:30 p.m. 13 years old. She loves With help from the audience and a December 18, 2010: drawing friendly merchant, she discovers the Once Upon a Time at 10 a.m. and tries strength within herself to stand up to A Dickens Tale at 2:30 p.m. her best to draw anime/ the bully, learning a variety of useful All performances are intended for manga, tools in the process. youth. Tickets are $5 at the door. a complex Japanese art form. She is In Jack’s Adventure in American 35 East Walnut Street, downtown also really into music. Cara wants to be an artist, graphic designer, or a manga History, Jack’s history book magi- Asheville. (828) 254-1320 or visit cartoonist when she grows up, but she's cally explodes and he comes face to www.ashevilletheatre.org. still not sure.

Vol. 14, No. 2 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — October 2010 17 RAPID RIVER ARTS fine art

‘Susan Marie Designs’ continued from pg. 7 local artists, the sgraffito carved express their tastes and discussing their porcelain particular budgets and needs. Once I get a wares of Karen feel for their style I am inspired to create Newgard and something truly unique,” she relates. the printed When you step across the threshold silk fabric art into Susan Marie Designs, you will often of Laura Sims. be greeted by another colorful natural Like Susan, wonder in the form of a splendid orange both ladies are Colorful Charlie. tabby named Charlie. Having hosted as also members shop cat for almost six years, Charlie will of the Southern Highland Craft Guild. gracefully usher you in to see the gallery’s Susan welcomes you to her gallery and also many handmade treasures. The gallery also invites you to stop by her booth at the Craft features the work of two other accomplished Fair of the Southern Highlands at the Civic Center on Haywood Street in downtown Asheville, October 21st through the 24th. Derek Hennigar:wood Oct. 21-24, 2010 Laura Sims and Karen Newgard will also be Asheville Civic Center exhibiting at the show. Downtown Asheville, NC Susan Marie designs www. craftguild.org 828-298-7928 4 Biltmore avenue, asheville, nC 28801 (828) 277-1272 [email protected] www.susanmphippsdesigns.com tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m. – 5:0 p.m. Sunday 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. 14 kt. yellow gold pendant.

18 October 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 2

prints color RAPID RIVER ARTS t r u n k s h o w fine art friday & saturday Layers of Life BY BRIDGET R. HEPLER october 15 & 16 1 1 a m - 5 p m hen most people think about visiting Asheville in the fall, their first thoughts are usually about the explosion of color painted along the Blue Ridge Mountains,W sitting by the fire, taking in the fresh, crisp, cool mountain air and absorbing the vast history. However, Asheville, NC, has so much more to offer. Asheville has always been known for its eclectic melting pot of creative thinkers. And artists have always been at the top of this list. They come from everywhere just to be here . . . to be rejuvenated and inspired by the amazing energy that is constantly buzzing throughout this magical city. This is why they come and it’s what they like sharing From the series Asheville, the Way I with others – their own expression of how See it, mixed media by Jonas Gerard. Asheville has inspired them. What’s even more intriguing is that you his main contribution to the city he loves. Fine Jewelry and Design Studio can find most of them here in the River Arts As he evolves, so does his art. A per- District. Imagine that . . . over 140 artists all fectly honest portrayal of life flows through in one place just waiting to share their deep- the canvas and into to the hearts of those est, most intimate thoughts and experiences who are receptive. It’s almost like a win- www.jewelsthatdance.com through their art. dow to his soul – and in turn, to their own. A revelation for the artist and for themselves. (AYWOOD3Ts!SHEVILLE .#s  s(OURS-ON 3AT  “Throughout my life, painting This latest chapter has been most intriguing can be seen in Jonas’ new and fascinating on so many mixed-media exhibition, different levels, as if nothing “Asheville, the way I see else mattered. In every it.” In this body of work, color, every brush stroke, there are many layers of my life is on the line.” creative energy merging ~Jonas Gerard who he is today with the city he loves. Abstracted representa- tion of Asheville, with many fascinating In fact, one of them made the journey textures and hidden subtleties. A visual treat all the way from his native Casablanca, for everyone to enjoy! French Morocco. With a couple of cities in- between and mind-boggling experiences to go with it, Asheville has claimed him for 3½ Writer Bridget years. His name is Jonas Gerard. R. Hepler is the Office Throughout the year, Jonas is con- and Marketing Manager stantly challenging himself to be more for Jonas gerard Fine inspired, more in touch with the creative art. Located in the energy and his soul. He has always been River arts district at driven to share his work and makes himself 240 Clingman avenue, available to assist others who are in need in asheville, nC. Call of “letting go.” The healing transformation (828) 50-7711 or visit jonasgerard.com and exchange of energy that occurs when for more information. people visit his gallery are quite unique and

Reda KaY, aSHeviLLe gaLLeRY OF aRt FeatURed aRtiSt An exhibit of works by Reda Kay, “Selective Vision”, will feature a group of abstract paintings making use of a variety of media. Using bold and muted colors and textures, Kay’s art is always evolving as a series of discoveries. An opening reception for the artist will be held on Friday, October 1 from 5 to 8 p.m. The public is cordially invited. iF YOU gO: On display through Sunday, October 31, 2010 at 16 Escape, College Street in downtown Asheville. For more information call mixed media by (828) 251-5796 or visit www.ashevillegallery-of-art.com. Reda Kay.

Vol. 14, No. 2 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — October 2010 19

prints color RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE fine art

Blue Ridge Textures and shadow cannot be conveyed in a photo- he gallery at BlackBird Frame graph; you really must & Art is hosting its sixth recep- BY PHILIP DEANGELO experience them in tion and show of the year, “Blue person.” Painter, teacher Ridge Textures”, an exhibition of mental interpretation of and world traveler, Wil- paintings by local artist William nature; each painting is liam Jameson is most Jameson.T Help us celebrate the release of his a reflection of the dual at home in his beloved new book with a reception on the eve- relationship between mountains and it is ning of October 15. The artist, one of the man and nature, painter evident in his work. region’s most widely collected, will be on and observer. Guitarist James Barr hand to sign copies of Blue Ridge Textures, David Houston, Green River Fall will play at the reception. Landscape Paintings of the Appalachians. Director of the Ogden by William Jameson. Events at BlackBird have This new body of work flows from Museum of Art, Uni- drawn good crowds, so ation of each Bill’s passion for history and nature, allowing versity of New Orleans, come early and enjoy the wine, music and work is apparent him to create introspective landscapes that describes Bill’s paintings great conversation, but especially William in his painting embody a full range of local color and time- as “carefully considered Jameson’s extraordinary paintings. style, incorporat- less contrasts which characterize the brilliant explorations of both vis- Eastatoe River Gorge IV, oil on linen ing heavy appli- iF YOU gO: Landscape paintings of warm colors that herald the arrival of fall in ible and intangible char- by William Jameson. cations of paint the Appalachians by William Jameson. the North Carolina mountains. Rejecting the acteristics of the natural with strong, Opening Reception on Friday, October term “scene” in reference to these works, Bill order.” Houston notes Bill’s evolution as a energetic brushstrokes. These techniques in- 15, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at BlackBird defines his landscapes as “explorations.” painter, asserting that, “[his] journey as an still his paintings with a sense of movement, Frame & Art. Show dates: October 15 This approach to his subject matter artist has traveled full circle, from an early echoing the recurring theme of natural cycles – November 8, 2010. enables Bill to create compositions that realism through minimalism and concep- and change inherent in his subject matter. go beyond mere depictions of the surface tualism, to a reviewed, but altered realism.” “I have had the opportunity to see BlackBird Frame & art is an independent beauty offered by the environs. He explores Bill acknowledges the change and growth in some of Bill’s new paintings for this show, art gallery and custom frame studio owned his subject matter in detail, in the process his artistic style since beginning his journey still wet on the easels in his studio,” says by pat and John Horrocks and located at revealing the mystery and profound power as a painter over twenty-five years ago. Phil DeAngelo. “His dramatic use of light 65 Merrimon avenue in asheville. of nature. The effect is a literal and senti- His personal involvement in the cre-

Asheville, NC VISIT Artist Studios

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20 October 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 2

prints color RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE fine art SOUtHeRn HigHLand gUiLd aRtiStS at Painting by Twigs and Leaves Gallery John Mac Kah

s visitors to Twigs and Leaves Gal- to Benefit lery stroll through the 180+ artists showing in the space they continu- RiverLink ally marvel at the amazing talent sheville artist John Mac Kah and craftsmanship. My immediate presents a solo exhibit at 16 Aresponse is, “Yes, we are blessed to be sur- Patton Gallery beginning Oc- rounded by a wealth of talent in this area.” tober 23, with an opening re- It would seem that the mountains of Jewelry by ception from 5 to 8 p.m. The Study for French Broad The Ledges Western North Carolina naturally ignite Sharon Bailey A by John Mac Kah. exhibit, which runs through November inspiration and creativity in the minds and 27, will include Kah’s new painting of hands of artisans, thus calling them to settle Lalone, potter; Charlie the French Broad River, entitled “The mitted to the economic and environmental here. Fortunately the Southern Highland Patricolo, fabric art- Ledges.” A portion of the proceeds from revitalization of the French Broad River and Guild was created to recognize a group of ist; Steve Noggle, the sale of the painting, a 24 x 48-inch, its tributaries. Its efforts are aimed to simul- especially talented wood turner; and Stained glass by oil on panel depiction of the rapid sec- taneously address water quality throughout artists and we are Desmond Suarez, Greg Magruder tion of river just north of Asheville, will the basin and to expand public opportunities pleased to represent furniture. Some of benefit local non-profit RiverLink. for increased access and recreation. a number of these the artists have works on display at www. Says, Kah, “The French Broad has “All of my paintings start on loca- artists in Twigs and twigsandleaves.com; all of the artists show really shown renewed life since I first tion, and the French Broad has increasingly Leaves Gallery. year round. began to visit here in the early ‘80s. And become a place to take students. It wasn’t Among such sadly, it always seemed inaccessible and always that way. I can see the river now artists are Sharon twigs and Leaves gallery is open Monday underused, even abused, full of waste from my studio [due to] the recent removal Bailey, jeweler; Greg through Saturday from 10-5:0 p.m., and and debris.” RiverLink’s office is located of an old auto repair shop. Kah goes on to Magruder, stained Pottery by Sundays (seasonal) 1-4 p.m. 98 north in the River Arts District of Asheville. say, “The French Broad is an amazing and glass; Michael Main Street, Waynesville, nC. Michael Lalone They are a regional non-profit com- Continued on page 23

Vol. 14, No. 2 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — October 2010 21

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MeMBeR OF tHe SOUtHeRn HigHLand CRaFt gUiLd V Dyk Jw ry Sn Customer Service and Old-World Craftsmanship

is goal is delightfully ambitious. As Chris BY DENNIS RAY Van Dyke puts it, “I try to be an all-purpose jewelry store within Van Dyke’s biggest Han upscale fine art/fine craft gal- lery.” He offers jewelry repairs, goal is to create jewelry cleanings, sizing and custom people will want to work, while also having a suc- keep forever. cessful line of his own jewelry designs and creations. His own jewelry pieces range from gallant He loves working on and brassy, to more traditional pendants because they allow the and smaller in scale, for the most room for creativity. How- more conservative customer. ever, he adds, “sometimes being Another facet of Van creative is creating something Dyke’s goal is to make “art to that looks simple yet says a lot.” wear” that is affordable to many For Van Dyke inspiration — “instead of making it extraor- comes from living and seeing the dinarily expensive where only a world around him, seeing the few can have and enjoy it,” he colors and the way light catches says. “Diamonds are stunning, at certain times of the day. “I’m but you can also have a beauti- inspired by so many things in ful eye-catching piece with my life,” he says about his own brilliant gem stones instead, and creations. “I’m fascinated with save a lot of money.” Still, Van lines and how they interact and Dyke’s biggest goal is to create join. Symbolically, the lines are jewelry people will want to our interaction with nature. Na- keep forever; to be collected ture is the stone and the metal and treasured, transcending and humanity is the line.” “trends and seasons.” Gorgeous bracelets, While his jewelry is one earrings and rings are all of a kind, Van Dyke also works present in Van Dyke’s display with customers who sometimes cases; every piece boasts delicate want a variation on a theme or details making each one unique. arrangement from some of his Earrings feature the elegant display pieces. “A shopper,” Van lined design that has become Dyke adds, “often likes a piece Van Dyke’s trademark. Rings of jewelry, say a necklace that and bracelets continue his styl- I’ve created, but wants a stone of ized look throughout, but offer a different color or wants certain wider variation in style; some parts in red gold or in platinum or whatever. are very simple and understated, others Collaborating with the buyer is very reward- decorated with diamonds. ing and the results are usually wonderfully His designs are clean and simple, crafted surprising. If a person has an idea for a piece from yellow or white gold, Van Dyke creates of jewelry I can create it for her. Custom- work he describes as playful and young. “The ers come to me with all different jewelry majority of my work is made without the use needs. Some have a certain look they want; of molds,” he says. Each piece is hand cut, some only have a vague idea. It’s all about forged and shaped with tools, which give to listening to what each individual wants and it its own inimitable look. A look Van Dyke working with his or her budget.” describes as “Old European craftsmanship Van Dyke uses white and yellow gold, with a modern style.” platinum, and sometimes silver in his work. So, ladies start dropping hints now and He uses a variant of precious to semi-pre- gentlemen pay attention: any piece from cious stones. He will pair up jade stones Van Dyke makes a perfect gift for any occa- for a dramatic set of earrings, or enhance a sion, and the Holidays are not too far off. brooch with rubies and emeralds. But what people take from his work is a unique piece of exceptional art that is entirely Van Dyke’s van dyke Jewelry own. “I’ve been in this business now for and Fine Craft over 20 years,” he says. “Like with all art, if you happen to be working at it long enough, 29 Biltmore ave., downtown asheville you wind up with a style, a look that you (828) 281-4044 can truly call your own.” www.vandykejewelry.com

22 October 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 2

prints color RAPID RIVER ARTS fine art aSHeviLLe’S FaSCinating River Arts District The creativity, variety and energy is seemingly endless in this easily accessible, historical industrial district that fills the space between downtown and the French Broad.

raveling either down Cling- Constance Williams man Avenue from Patton working on her entry for Mountain Housing Avenue, up Meadows/Ly- Opportunities Doors of man from Biltmore Village Asheville fundraiser. or down Haywood from TWest Asheville, it only takes two minutes with green lights (three or four with red) BY GREG VINEYARD to find oneself smack dab in the middle of a fascinating juxtaposition of old buildings housing new arts and crafts, eateries, a mi- Odyssey building), 12 Bones Smokehouse crobrewery and entrepreneurial businesses. and four addresses down Depot Street, and All told, there are over 140 artists and you have more history old and new than associate members in the River Arts District you can shake a paintbrush at. Or a welding across seventeen artistic, preserved structures, hammer. Or a blowtorch. Or... each with its own history, as well as its own The River Arts District is about creativ- set of “within living memory” stories. ity. Creativity you can see firsthand as you Riverview Station, the southernmost walk into actual working spaces and see and gateway into the area, started as a tannery talk to artists fulfilling their dreams of work- in 1898 and has been in continuous mixed- ing on what they love to do most. Every- use ever since. The Cotton Mill Studios thing from the purely functional to the pure represent the last standing building from conceptual, from traditional methods to the much larger cotton plant that used to unusual innovations, can be found. There is be there. CURVE studios & garden, built always something a little more than expected in 1916 by the Standard Oil Company, has when so many artists come together to cre- seen over 20 years of artistic activity, and ate an experience such as this. You will also is now at maximum capacity, exclusively find those who teach, who run gallery spaces featuring fine artists. On the North end, and who create loose cadres of professionals Riverside Studios and the Roots Building are who coach and lead others. filling with artists. Come experience and enjoy the artists, Though Highwater Clays has moved the spaces, the colors and the smiles — not to its clay warehouse up Riverside Drive, its mention the high quality arts and crafts! Odyssey Center with studios, classes and a residency program has been a mainstay The Studio Stroll takes place of the District for years. Add to these the iF November 13-14, 2010. For Warehouse Studios, Phil Mechanic, The YOU more information about the Wedge Building, Roberts Street Studios, Jo- gO River Arts District visit www. nas Gerard and Clingman Cafe (attached to riverartsdistrict.com.

‘John Mac Kah’ continued from pg. 21 About his work, Kah says, “Painting is ultimately about immersion in the land- intricate system of creeks and waterways that scape. In painting the natural environment flow to the Gulf of Mexico. Now, with the I have built a whole vocabulary in paint to Gulf polluted by oil, it’s even more impor- translate what I see as important in building tant we become aware of what we send there a memorable image. Pushing and pulling all from here. We have this amazing system this together is a constant challenge.” right here, blocks away from downtown.” iF YOU gO: John Mac Kah, Landscapes: RiverLink has exposed a new section, Nocturnes and Sketches, on display the RiverLink Sculpture and Performance from October 23 through November 27 Plaza, at 119 Riverside Drive across from at 16 Patton Fine Art Gallery, 16 Patton Cotton Mill Studios, where Kah works and Avenue, Asheville, NC. (828) 236-2889, teaches daily. “The French Broad, as it runs www.16patton.com. quietly through Asheville, has real pres- ence and quiet power. I’ve tried to capture John Mac Kah’s studio is located in the a sense of that and give it some significance. Cotton Mill Studios, 122 Riverside drive in We lost sight of that, but it’s slowly being asheville’s River arts district. He can be revealed. RiverLink has done a lot toward reached at [email protected] and his work bringing the French Broad back to life.” explored at www.jmkah.com.

Vol. 14, No. 2 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — October 2010 2

prints color Get this RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE ExClusivE poetry & books oFFEr Rn
 Thuts   P ry few months ago I received a That disclaimer made, here are, for BY TED OLSON books letter from someone who had what they’re worth (and acknowledg- for obviously read at least one of ing that future experiences might very 6 the monthly poetry col- ternational, living and historical—have well force revision of these principles), umns I’ve written for Rapid wrestled with craft in composing some long-held if only recently articu- ¢L ARiver Magazine since July 2009. In poems that accurately and insightfully lated reasons I write poetry: 99 15 months as a columnist for Rapid reflect a believable “sense of place” (a Poetry helps the poet and, if a River, this letter remains the only familiar and, if well-handled, quite poem is effective, the reader to come to Plus a FREE GIFT communication I’ve received from a universal theme). A poet’s ability to terms with complexities, such as feel- with membership reader of the column, and, as many resolve the difficulties of expressing ings, thoughts, ideas, and sensations. writers know, published writing is all- “sense of place” often revolves around Poems can make connections too-often an unintended monologue. approach to craft—that is, the way by between diametrically opposed It was somehow gratifying to have which that poet manipulates language forces and hence forge a sense of Enter code A5F147 proof that at least one person was actu- (a highly artificial mode of commu- order out of chaos. joinDoubledayBookClub.com ally reading my poetry column. nication) in order to say something A poem can help the reader That being said, the writer of inherently complex as simply and endure pain and frustration—that is, that letter, obviously a passionate memorably as possible. poetry can be manna for the spirit. defender of the dispossessed, essen- In compiling this column each A poem can take on an identity tially asserted that a poetry column month, I’ve pondered how other poets separate from the experience that in Rapid River ought to focus on the have resolved conflicts between their “inspired” it. issues of the working class. Encourag- own individual artistic and spiritual Yet a poem reflecting greater loy- ing a sense of hope in tough times is aspirations and their regional identi- alty to craft than to some deep human certainly one of the roles poetry can ties. I’ve witnessed how skilled poets experience is likely to be rather lifeless play (and, if emanating from a skilled have made poetic utterances that are and mechanical. pen, can play well). In my experience, at the same time natural and distinc- In order to communicate di- poetry can suffer when it strains to be tive (to paraphrase Argentine writer rectly and honestly with others, a poet too temporal, too “relevant.” Poetry Jorge Luis Borges, those poets have should try to avoid language that is can thrive when freed from the need been able to improve upon the blank self-consciously smart, clever, and to be useful. Yet the sincerity of that page). In the process of retracing other witty (in the socially refined, upwardly letter caught my attention, and I rec- poets’ artistic journeys, I’ve become mobile sense of the word). ognized that it was my responsibility more circumspect about my per- Metaphors should be used as a columnist for a popular periodi- sonal philosophy of poetry, my own sparingly in poetry and only when cal to listen to readers’ opinions. I’m attitudes toward poetic craft. Having they illuminate understanding of a taking this opportunity to thank that written poems for more than three poem’s theme. Advertise with Rapid River Magazine letter-writer for communicating a decades without consciously commit- Rhymes, if utilized in a poem, valid perspective. ting myself to a specific set of poetic should increase that poem’s strength (828) 646-0071 In May 2009 I gratefully accepted principles, my recent heightened of phrasing and musical structure, and Free web links • Free ad design publisher Dennis Ray’s invitation to awareness of other poets’ perspectives should not be employed as window- oversee Rapid River Magazine’s poetry has been a quiet revelation for me. dressing or to create a pattern of Easy monthly billing column, thinking that through the col- Any philosophy of poetry is, of predictable phrasing. umn I might better understand some- course, hardly a “philosophy” in any That’s it… for now. In closing, I’d thing that had long haunted me—the structured sense. By its very nature as like to thank all Rapid River Magazine subtle relationship between poetry and an inexact science of human feeling, readers for allowing me the opportu- region. I was particularly interested in poetry defies precise categorization nity to express my random thoughts becoming more aware of how poetry and quantification. I had probably bet- about poetry, both in this month’s might most effectively express the soul ter rephrase “my personal philosophy missive and in previous columns. of Appalachia, the region in which of poetry” as “my rationale for poetry,” I—and virtually all of the people who because any claims about having “po- ted Olson is the might stumble across my columns— etic principles” are in truth rationaliza- author of such books live. But I didn’t want the “vision” that tions to the conscious mind for spend- as Breathing in would guide the column to be limited ing so much time trying to scribble darkness: poems (Wind by a kind of regional myopia. down seemingly random thoughts and publications, 2006) feelings into a form more meaning- and Blue Ridge Folklife For years I’ve been interested in (University press of how various poets—regional and in- ful—at least to me. Mississippi, 1998) and he is the editor of numerous books, including CrossRoads: a Southern Culture annual (Mercer University

® press, 2009). His experiences as Rapid River 5 Winners a poet and musician are discussed ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE prizes include: tickets to local concerts (tBa); on www.windpub.com/books/ tickets to the Opera; Mellow Mushroom gift breathingindarkness.htm. th Annual Certificates; and books from Malaprops. Poetry any unpublished poem 5 lines or less is wanted! Poets who would like for their poetry to be Contest considered for a future column may send 14 Reading fee: $5 for three poems. their books and manuscripts to Ted Olson, Deadline January 15, 2011. For more information please call (828) 258-3752. ETSU, Box 70400, Johnson City, TN Winning poems will be printed in Send poems to: Rapid River Poetry Contest, 37614. Please include contact information the February 2011 issue. 85 N. Main St., Canton, NC 28716 and a SASE with submissions.

24 October 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 2 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE authors ~ books ~ readings

The Last Child that there is “no safe place for REVIEWS BY CAULEY BENNETT children.” One year ago his Written by John Hart twin sister Alyssa was abducted kept his word. The boy and the cop are in and never seen again and two ’m in love! Not only is North constant collision until their different clues, weeks later his father also and fate, bring them together. Carolina writer John Hart a hunk disappeared. Johnny now lives in three-piece lawyer duds, but One of the most appealing aspects of with his traumatized mother in The Last Child is that, like other southern We host numerous Readings, he’s the best male thriller writer to a grubby rental house, grieving OCtOBeR Bookclubs, as well as poetrio! writers Sharyn McCrumb and Vicki Lane, More events posted online. come along in years. for her and the loss of his other PARTIAL LISTING I The Last Child, (Minotaur Hart brings to the present a fascinating piece loved ones. Sunday, October  at 5 p.m. 2009) is such a terrific book that I read it two of local history. More than a hundred years Relying on a seemingly endless well of ago, Indian-Negro slaves were forced to tRiCia SHapiRO presents her book on times. First in print, where I enjoyed the courage and resiliency, the boy is obsessed mountaintop removal, Mountain Justice. chilling page-turner as a reader, mesmer- celebrate their religious devotions away from with finding his sister. To that end he’s tuesday, October 5 at 7 p.m. ized by the deeply layered characters and peering white eyes in a forest refuge called a been tracking down and spying on all the “hush harbor.” The refuge, and the strange SUSan BLeXRUd will present an overview the mind-boggling plot twists. Second, in a county’s pedophiles. On a separate in- of vampiric literature through the ages! marvelous audio book version (narrated by man who haunts it, is one of the unforget- vestigative path is Detective Clyde Hunt, table ways the novel’s mysteries are solved. Friday, October 8 at 7 p.m. Scott Sowers, Macmillan Audio) in which, who promised Johnny’s mother he would MaRY JUditH MeSSeR and Buffy Queen undistracted by the story, as a writer I could find her daughter and can’t rest until he’s visit www.johnhartfiction.com present Moonshiner’s daughter. study the novel’s construction and style. I was impressed both times. Saturday, October 9 at 7 p.m. dOnna BaLL presents her third novel Love And so it seems, are a lot of other read- Letters From Ladybug Farm. ers. This is Hart’s third bestselling novel, The Witch Awakening: The following his wildly successful debut, The Sunday, October 10 at 5 p.m. King of Lies (2006) and then Down River Landers Saga Begins SHeRRie diLLaRd presents her new book, Love and intuition. (2007). He has won every major mystery writing award — it’s only a matter of time Written by Karen Nilsen Wednesday, October 1 at 7 p.m. before Hollywood comes calling and he JeFF BaKeR presents Heard around the he mark of a great fantasy novel is and smelling auras, wins an Oscar, too. Fire, wisdom from grandfather Fire. — can it enthrall readers like me have given Safire a The Last Child is set in fictional Raven thursday, October 14 from 5-6 p.m. who don’t like fantasy novels? I’m dazzling indepen- County in the piedmont. Thirteen-year-old CaRLOtta WaLLS LanieR signs copies of happy to say I thoroughly enjoyed dence and quick wit Johnny has learned, to the reader’s horror, a Mighty Long Way. The Witch Awakening. The charac- that aren’t consid- Tters are full-bodied, the dialogue is terse and ered ideal in her thursday, October 14 at 7 p.m. Steve HendRiCKS, a Kidnapping in Milan. irreverent, the action is exciting and clever repressive society. With her — and the book, all 414 pages of it, never soul mate, young nobleman Merius, the Saturday, October 16 at 7 p.m. viCKi Lane at tHRee has a boring moment. The author, Old Fort tyro witch has one adventure after another, david HeRLiHY presents the Lost Cyclist. resident Karen Nilsen, may be young but including court intrigues, wild swordfights, tuesday, October 19 at 7 p.m. LOCaL BOOKStOReS she’s certainly an expert at writing a fast- powerful adversaries, and life and death CHRiStY JORdan presents her new Vicki Lane, Asheville’s paced, entertaining novel. struggles bearing eternal repercussions. cookbook Southern plate. well-known author and Safire is the high-spirited younger Author Karen Nilsen self-published thursday, October 21 at 7 p.m. teacher, will be reading daughter of a minor lord in an imaginary The Witch Awakening. This means the book andReW paRK presents Between Church from her latest novel, land. Her psychic powers, such as seeing now carries mixed blessings: it’s available and a Hard place: One Faith-Free dad’s Day of Small Things, to be read, but the book is so good, it could Struggle to Understand What it Means to a haunting story about have garnered a publishing contract, giving Be Religious (Or not). one of the Appalachian Nilsen a professional cachet to help her ca- Saturday, October 2 at 7 p.m. series’ most beloved a Real Witchy reer in the long run. She deserves kudos for WiLLiaM UpSKi WiMSatt presents please characters, Birdie Gentry. Lane’s Website the courage it took to self-publish — and en- don’t Bomb the Suburbs. website is loaded with information couragement to pursue the more traditional, Friday, October 29 at 7 p.m. about her new book and more: www. Just in time for time-consuming venue for her next work. CHRiS J. HaRtLeY presents Stoneman’s Raid 1865. vickilanemysteries.com. the witchy season, visit www.karennilsen.com Asheville’s favorite Saturday, October 0 at 7 p.m. iF YOU gO: Friday, real witch, and former MaRK de CaStRiQUe presents his mystery, October 1 at 7 Rapid River Magazine contributor, Fatal Undertaking. p.m. Malaprop’s Byron Ballard, reveals her new web- Bookstore/Café, site. It’s a dandy. CReative SCaReCROWS: 55 Haywood 55 Haywood St. 5 Fun Figures for Your Yard & garden Street, downtown Full of lore about genuine witch- 828-254-6734 • 800-441-9829 Asheville. (828) craft, especially the Appalachian It’s the most colorful Monday-Saturday 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. 254-6734, www. tradition; tons of colorful photos; and innovative book Sunday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. malaprops.com. info about celebrations, events ever written about and workshops, including those at scarecrows and yard Friday, October 8 Mother Grove Temple downtown; figures. By former at 7 pm. City Lights Bookstore, easy to access links to her two pop- Rapid River contribu- 3 East Jackson Street, Sylva, NC ular blogs and also to her extensive tor Marcianne Miller, 28779. (828) 586-9499, published work, both the popular www.citylightsnc.com. designed and illustrated by her sister, articles and her scholarly papers. Merry Miller (Lark Books). Scare- Don’t let Halloween — or Samhain, Saturday, October 9 at 3 p.m. Blue crows, of course, are most popular as it’s called by pagans — pass Ridge Books, 152 S. Main St., without a visit. in October, but as Miller enthuses, Waynesville, NC. (828) 456-6000, scarecrows bring gardens alive every www.brbooks-news.com. Visit www.myvillagewitch.com season of the year.

Vol. 14, No. 2 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — October 2010 25 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE authors ~ books ~ readings

The Tiger: A True Story of their astonishing ability to conceptualize, OCtOBeR HigHLigHtS and most especially, their proven ability to Vengeance and Survival hold a grudge and act on vengeance. at MaLapROp’S This was the first audio book in the thursday, October 7, Written and read by John Vaillant hundreds I’ve read where I really wished at 7 p.m. I’d had the print copy, too, because I his is one of the strangest but most (Random House would love to have seen photos of the South Carolinian Dacre interesting books I’ve ever read — Audio, 2010), tells a many things author Valliant wrote about. Stoker, the great grand- the story of an injured Siberian tiger true tale that is both (Photos are included in the print versions.) nephew of Bram Stoker, who for days tracked down, then exciting and com- When I wanted visual information, which presents his rowdy, attacked and ate a Russian poacher prehensive — it covers the his- I often did, I just went to the Internet and supernatural action tale, Dracula the Twho had shot him. It’s non-fiction but reads tory and economics of the region, explaining searched. Thus, reading this book turned Undead. Written with Dracula histo- like a suspense thriller. It takes place in an how Perestroika not only destroyed Russian out to be an unexpected — and extensive rian, Ian Holt. area I knew nothing about — Russia’s far Communism but adversely affected the — educational experience. visit www.draculatheundead.com east Primorye province, home to a rare com- country’s wildlife; the relationship between bination of four distinct bioregions — the the indigenous people who venerated the Friday, October 15, taiga, Mongolian steppes, boreal forests and tiger and the Russians who hunted it; and at 7 p.m. Korean tropics. amazing trips through the landscapes of this eventS at aCCent On BOOKS Animal cognition expert Tiger Author John Vaillant, who also mysterious place. Most fascinating are the Irene M. Pepperberg narrates the 12-hour audio version I read details about tigers — their powerful size, Wednesday, October 1, at  p.m. The relates her amazing 30- Book Club: English writer Hilary year relationship with an Mantel’s newest historical novel, Wolf African gray parrot in her Tar Heel State Travel Hall, is an exciting portrayal of Oliver new book, Alex & Me: How a Scien- Cromwell and the Protestant Refor- mation, begun by King Henry VIII. tist and a Parrot Discovered a Hidden North Carolina Afield: A Guide to Nature Conservancy World of Animal Intelligence – and thursday, October 14, 6 p.m. Monthly Formed a Deep Bond in the Process Projects in North Carolina, written by Ida Phillips. Writers Support Group. No criticism, visit www.alexfoundation.org just motivation! his is a guidebook entire landscapes — a monumental Sunday, October 17, for intrepid travelers, task which it does remarkably well. iF YOU gO: Accent on Books, 854 at 5 p.m. since it covers, not This guide — elegantly written, Merrimon Ave., Asheville, NC. (828) North Carolina’s most and invitingly illustrated with photos 252-6255, www.accentonbooks.com. Pennsylvania journal- accessible tourist des- and maps — divides the Conservan- ist Jay Varner presents Ttinations, but some of its most cy projects into the state’s three areas his fascinating family pristine and untraveled. The — southern Appalachian mountains, memoir, Nothing Left to North Carolina Chapter of the the piedmont, and the coastal plain Not all sites are open to the public and Burn. Fire is the key to Nature Conservancy, celebrat- — which means it can be used all arrangements have to be made with the family secrets: Grandpa was an arsonist ing its 33rd anniversary this year, year. Each site is given an inspir- Conversancy or other agencies for private and Dad was the local fire chief. has an astonishing 700,000 acres ing description relating it to its access. Even if you are just an armchair trav- visit www.jayvarner.com in its protection. landscape; its conservation history, eler, reading this book is a pleasure, taking Unlike the Chestnut Society including what I found most fascinating, the you at least in your imagination to our state’s Wednesday, October 20, or the Audubon Society whose efforts are names of the families who donated the often best remaining wild places. at 7 p.m. concentrated on specific plants or animals, enormous amounts of acreage; and helpful nature Conservancy: www.nature.org Myla Goldberg (Bee the Conservancy is dedicated to preserving trip-planning suggestions. Season) reads from her long-awaited new work, The False Friend, a psy- chological novel about two 11-year old Broken world away from Atlanta. Populating girls who are supposedly best friends. the story, unique in the macho world BLUe Ridge BOOK FeSt visit www.mylagoldberg.com of thrillers, is a collection of fascinat- Written by ing, complex women, both heroine and in WaYneSviLLe iF YOU gO: Malaprop’s Bookstore/ Karin Slaughter villain, and one character, police officer The Blue Ridge Book Fest offers the Café, 55 Haywood Street, downtown Lena Davis is a combination of both. rare chance to meet 20 of our region’s Asheville. Call (828) 254-6734, or visit lthough I’m a big In a tale pulsing with action, plot authors at one time. Some of the au- www.malaprops.com. thriller fan, espe- twists, betrayal, murder, mystery and thors are Kathryn Magendie (southern cially those written vengeance — in fact too much to syn- fiction novels, Tender Graces and Se- by women, best- opsize here — are unflinching portrayals cret Graces); memoirist Mary Messer selling Georgia of bereavement and the lingering pain (Moonshiner’s Daughter); and local A of guilt that cannot be redeemed away. RevieWed neXt MOntH author Karin Slaughter never reached my historians Bob Plott (Legendary Hunt- natural Saints: How people radar. No explanation, just a sad fact. When There’s even a little romance, but it’s made ers of the Southern Highlands) and of Faith are Working to Save I learned on a mystery novel blog that poignant with a path full of longing but no Michael Beadle (Images of America: god’s earth by Warren Wilson Slaughter is the most popular contempo- chance of fulfillment. In other words, Burn Haywood County). Books will be professor, Mallory Mcduff. rary American author in Europe, I had to provides all the tropes of the thriller genre available for sale and signing. All book read her and figure out what created this that make fans addicted to it, but also adds lovers welcome! surprising accomplishment. layers of raw emotion and insight that seri- Rapid River Book editor Slaughter’s latest novel, her tenth, is ous readers find exquisitely satisfying. iF YOU gO: Saturday, October 2, from Cauley Bennett is an Broken (Delacorte, 2010). It takes place, In my estimation, the only thing wrong 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Blue Ridge Books, asheville writer. You can not in New York or California, Europeans’ with Broken is that it ended. 152 S. Main St., Waynesville, NC. for reach her by e-mailing preferred vacation spots, but in fictional visit www.karinslaughter.com. more information call (828) 456-6000 [email protected] Grant County, Georgia, a short drive but a or visit www.brbooks-news.com.

26 October 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 2 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE artful living

attention. When we do pay attention, Breathing Into Life BY BILL WALZ we can consciously experience our breathing, and with that conscious “Mindfulness is the miracle by which we master and restore ourselves… choice, open an entirely new and rich mind…. In the moment when the mind Mindfulness frees us of forgetfulness and dispersion and makes it possible to world of experience. is focused fully on respiration, it is live fully each minute of life… You should know how to breathe to maintain We can, if we choose, free from craving, free of aversions mindfulness, as breathing is a natural and extremely effective tool which can control the rate and the volume and free of ignorance. It challenges prevent dispersion. Breath is the bridge which connects life to consciousness, of the breath, and as many yogic all one’s past conditioning.” which unites your body to your thoughts. Whenever your mind becomes practices demonstrate, if done Zen teachings emphasize scattered, use your breath as the means to take hold of your mind again.” systematically and purposefully, over and over again that we must can dramatically alter states of return to our direct experi- ~ Thich Nhat Hanh consciousness. We can hold ence of Life. It teaches that the breath, and if we are society has corrupted us very good at it, will pass into living in ideas about hen we take Thich Nhat Hanh’s breathe, their bodies as inert as earth until Life rather than experienc- words to heart and practice and the miracle of respiration creates Life. A out, become unconscious, and the autonomic ing its subtleties, power discover the truth of his claim miracle! And at the end of an individual life, and miracles directly. to what he calls “the miracle the last breath leaves, to return our physical breath function will again take over. Breath This is the “past con- of mindfulness,” we discover form to the earth. Dust to dust. ditioning” to which Wthat mindfulness is indeed a miracle, and As we practice, we discover that breath happens in both the voluntary and the Goenka is referring. that mindfulness of breathing is a key that as an object of meditation, as a “bridge Zen is the development of the unlocks this miracle. We discover what the which connects life to consciousness, which involuntary nervous systems. It functions as a natural bridge between the capacity for shifting from living primarily in dictionary defines as “an extraordinary event unites your body to your thoughts,” takes the chattering activity of the mind, only pay- believed to manifest a supernatural work… on more than metaphoric nicety when it is conscious and unconscious mind, between thought-directed and natural activity. ing enough attention to the world around us an extremely outstanding or unusual event, considered that there are two dimensions to orient the chatter, into living primarily in thing or accomplishment.” to our nervous system, the voluntary, or the world-as-it-is. When we begin to link our conscious- somatic, and the involuntary, or autonomic. Mindfulness of breathing We learn to engage the sensory, think- ness with our breathing, first in formal We have conscious control of the restores our connection to ing and emotive functions of mind as in- meditation, and then, as we live our voluntary nervous system, as in, as I type struments in service of a vivid connection to ongoing lives, we do indeed discover… a this column, I consciously and choicefully the present moment as-it- Life unfolding about us and through us. As miracle. And while what happens is truly move my fingers on the keyboard. Also, as is, to here-and-now. Goenka states, conscious breathing can be extraordinary, there is nothing supernatural I sit here, my heart beats and my breakfast the link between conscious and unconscious about it. Rather, we discover the restora- digests, but I am not consciously directing mind, bringing our reactions and habituated tion of our own true naturalness, which is these activities; in fact, I have no conscious Even ordinary breathing held in conscious awareness will have the quite patterns into vivid highlight for us, allow- always with us, but we are not sufficiently control over them. These voluntary and ing choiceful responding to supplant the present with the flow of life within and involuntary systems are, for the most part, extraordinary result of naturally calming and focusing us. Furthermore, there is a pro- reactivity and habit that dull and limit our around us to notice. quite exclusive of each other except when it experience. It allows us to challenge our past Another way of expressing this is that comes to breathing. found linking and accessing of unconscious mental processing to conscious awareness, conditioning, to emerge fresh into each mo- in attending to the phenomenon of our Mostly, breath is an autonomic, invol- ment of existence. own breathing, we become witness to the untary activity, it happens unconsciously, facilitating intuition and insight. We also discover that when we become Breathe deeply. Allow the exhalation to ongoing miracle of Life. As we breathe, Life until, we make it conscious. Unlike our relax and calm you into the moment as-it-is, breathes. Life breathes us. The elements heart beating, and our stomach digesting, the subtle enough in our awareness to experi- ence the very subtle sensations of respira- and the inhalation to sharpen the clarity of of air and earth come together in respira- sensations of breathing are consciously avail- your awareness. Brightly alert, calm and tion creating life. All animals and plants able to us, but we generally simply don’t pay tion, we simultaneously become aware of the overlooked subtleties of Life all around relaxed, be witness to and beneficiary of the us. Mindfulness of breathing restores miracle. Breathe into Life. Discover “The our connection to the present moment Miracle of Mindfulness.” as-it-is, to here-and-now. It cuts through WOMen WHO See in tHe daRK the artificial construct of our hectic and, frankly, superficial, life-situations that have Bill Walz teaches meditation “Earth slips to relax while staying sharply focused. ensnared and distracted us from our most and mindfulness at UnCa quietly into A partner or previous experience is not natural birthright – our direct experience of and public forums, and winter. required. Everyone is welcome! connectedness with Life. As we cultivate a is a private-practice Nights Serpentine Arborvitae’s (pro- subtle relationship to our own breath, we meditation teacher and grow longer nounced ar-bor-vee-tey, Latin for tree also cultivate a relationship to all aspects of life-coach for individuals in and colder, seeds fall to the ground to lie of life), vocal improvisational skills have Life with subtlety and presence. It is as if a mindfulness, personal growth dormant in the dark soil... and magic won her critical acclaim in DOWN- hidden crystalline world of sights, sounds, and consciousness. He holds a weekly is underway.” BEAT and MUSICIAN Magazine. sensations and even energies, all intercon- meditation class, Mondays, 7 p.m., at the Join us for an evening of sacred Tarleton Reynolds Brooks has over 30 nected, begins to emerge. Friends Meeting House, 227 edgewood. music and circle dance ritual featuring years of experience working as a per- Indian Vipassana (the Zen of Southeast He will present a Lecture with discussion vocalist composer Serpentine Arborvitae former and teacher of movement, magic, Asia) Master, S.N. Goenka, instructs us: and Meditation on the Radical and circle dancer Tarleton Brooks. comedy theatre and martial arts. “Dharma (the Buddhist path) is the path Commitments for personal evolution, Circle Dance is a fusion of tradi- of here and now. By practicing awareness Sunday, november 14, 2-5 p.m. at Jubilee iF YOU gO: Saturday, November 6 at 8 tional and ancient sacred dances from of respiration we become aware of the Community Church, 46 Wall Street, p.m. The Masonic Temple, 80 Broadway all over the world. Circle Dance is the present moment. Focusing on breathing asheville, 252-55. Both by donation. St. in Asheville. Phone (828) 252-3924. can help us explore whatever is unknown practice of moving meditation. The mu- Tickets $15 in advance or $20 at the info on classes, talks, personal growth and about ourselves, to bring into consciousness sic and dances range from slow and deep door. Purchase tickets online at www. healing instruction, or phone consultations to lively and ecstatic. All are easy to learn, humanangel.net/calendar.html whatever has been unconscious. It acts as a at (828) 258-241, e-mail at healing@ taught step-by-step allowing the mind bridge between conscious and unconscious billwalz.com. visit www.billwalz.com

Vol. 14, No. 2 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — October 2010 27 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE healthy lifestyles Holidays and Traffic Fatalities

ith the Labor Day weekend 4-5 a.m. on a Tuesday or Wednesday BY MAX HAMMONDS, MD past, the holiday season has morning – when there is only 9% of officially begun. Some of the traffic as compared to the average the busiest holidays are just number of drivers on the road during tired and inattentive to their driving. upon us. On the Thanks- the rest of the day. On average 50% of these people are W not wearing their seat belts (better than giving weekend, the busiest of all holidays for road traffic, 91% of those The Other Contributing Factors? the night time drivers) and 20-30% traveling are doing so in an automobile. of them admit to driving 15 miles an #2 cause - Not using seat belts. Two- For as often as people casually do hour over the speed limit. thirds of fatally injured night-time it, getting into an automobile is the But the most consistent factor in drivers are not wearing seat belts as most dangerous activity a person does holiday fatalities? Alcohol is a major compared to 30% of daytime fatalities. each day. Dying in an automobile crash factor in 40-45% of all fatalities in all is the #1 cause of death in those 1-34 # cause - Alcohol is a major factor in five of the deadliest holidays. And on years of age. On average 110 people die 54% of night time fatalities as com- New Year’s Day alcohol is a con- each day in an automobile crash. pared to 18% of daytime fatalities. It tributor in over 50% of the fatal traffic The most dangerous day of the has been shown recently that being accidents. AFFORDABLE, FLEXIBLE health insurance. week to drive? Saturday – when on distracted – by texting or by cell phone Bottom Line NO, REALLY. average 143 people die in a traffic acci- use or by fixing the hair or by eating How can HumanaOne help you? dent. The most dangerous time of the breakfast – is as impairing as being Let this holiday season be a time day to drive? At night. While only 49% legally drunk. for building good family memories Short term GET A FREE QUOTE of traffic fatalities are at night, miles #4 cause - Speeding contributes to 30% and not be a time to erect a memorial INDIVIDUAL plans are IN MINUTES driven are only one third of daytime to someone’s untimely death. Drive PLANS AS LOW available of fatalities. too! miles – meaning it is three times as safely. Happy Holidays. AS Call Center Hours dangerous to drive at night. And now it is the holiday season M-Th 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. EST when all of these causes are com- Fri 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. EST Is it getting more dangerous to Sat 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. EST drive an automobile? Actually since pounded. The traffic increases by $ 78 1982, when statistics first were being over 50% on the five busiest holidays SteWaRdS OF CHiLdRen Is this you? and the fatality rates increase by 4 ½ kept by the National Highway Traffic Workshop led by Kelley J. Wolfe, • Self-employed Safety Administration, for each mile - 5 times. Thanksgiving is the worst • Early retiree with an average of 567 deaths for the Ph. D., ACS, Clinical Sexologist, driven it has become 17 times safer to empowers people to prevent child • Losing benefits at work drive – because of all the safety features day (not counting the days before or after) – followed by Labor Day with sexual abuse. At First Congrega- now built into cars – anti-lock brakes, tional United Church of Christ. side airbags, three point seat belts, etc. 544 fatalities, Independence Day with 542 fatalities, Memorial Day with 508 Tuesday, October 5, from 9 a.m. 1-888-691-9689 fatalities, and Christmas Day with 414 to noon. Sunday, October 10, *Male, 39, NS, Chicago 60605, Monogram. Rates vary by age, location and plan selection. So Why the Continuing All applications are subject to underwriting approval. Waiting periods, limitations and fatalities on average. from 1 to 4 p.m. Cost: $30. Con- exclusions may apply. Insured by Humana Insurance Company, Humana Health Plan, Traffic Fatalities? tact Terra Maney (828) 335-7287 Inc., Humana Health Insurance Company of Florida, Inc., Humana Employers Health Plan The causes are the same. There of Georgia, Inc. and Humana Insurance Company or Humana Health Benefit Plan of to register. Visit www.darkness- Louisiana, Inc. #1 cause - The number of people on are more people driving more miles For AZ residents: Insured by Humana Insurance Company. Short Term Medical plans are 2light.org. not renewable, do not cover pre-existing conditions, and refunds are not available (varies the road. The safest time to drive is over longer hours and getting more by state). GCA07A2HH_A

28 October 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 2 RAPID RIVER ARTS healthy lifestyles George Goes to Washington man on a mission is a powerful BY BYRON BELZAK thing, indeed. Yet a man on a mis- sion with a unique proposal that re- quires an act of Congress in today’s A acrimonious political climate seems a mountain too high to climb; but not Over 11 Million Victims for George Connolly of Fletcher, North Carolina. He is author of “National Health of Identity Theft Last Year. Lottery: A New Way to Fund Health Insur- ance,” and he remains optimistic and un- Source: Javelin Strategy & Research. “2010 Identity Fraud Survey Report.” February 2010. deterred in selling his concept to Congress and the nation. Earlier this year he publicly unveiled his Help Protect Yourself Today. idea and traveled to Washington, D.C., to personally put his 167-page, self-published, ENROLL TODAY AND GET: paperback book in the hands of many U.S. PROMO CODE: ID senators and representatives. 30 DAY RISK-FREE* TRIAL Despite the health care reform bill that passed earlier this year, George says his CALL NOW: 1-888-252-5862 idea, which is voluntary and not tax-based, George Connolly holds his book, remains viable. His plan for a national health “National Health Lottery” in the rotunda of the Senate Russell Building. *At the end of the 30-day free period your card will be billed automatically ($10.00 lottery is similar, at first blush, to all of the monthly/$110.00 annually) unless you cancel within the 30-day period. You can cancel Photo: Byron Belzak / MediaBear 43 state lotteries combined, which now have anytime without penalty by calling 1-800-LifeLock. Offer is for new LifeLock members only. total sales of over $60 billion a year. “I was amazed how accessible many of But the National Health Lottery the congressmen were,” said George, who proposal is a bigger idea with wider implica- is a small business owner and family man. tions, says Connolly, for it would bring in “This new system will provide the old sys- “approximately $2 billion per week, over tem with a much needed, massive transfu- $100 billion a year, and that’s being conser- sion of money.” vative.” He said his plan could quickly be- Whether those in power will take come the centerpiece in funding catastroph- George Connolly and his National Health ic health care nationwide. “And it wouldn’t Lottery proposal to heart remains to be seen. take years to get a National Health Lottery In the meantime, he continues to promote system up and running, only months.” his idea and book. It is now for sale at Ama- He said that once health insurance zon.com or can be ordered at any Barnes & companies read the details of his plan, it Noble retail store (ISBN 978-0-578-05076- would entice many small firms to enter the 8). A free preview is available online at marketplace “and that would bring down www.nationalhealthlottery.com. insurance rates because it would encourage A number of people in his hometown more competition.” praised him for his efforts. Said one sup- To boost ticket sales, he proposes that porter: “I find it amazing that here’s this Americans who participate in the National one small businessman who comes up with Health Lottery be granted an annual tax a good idea, writes and publishes a book credit, up to $1,040 per person. about it, launches a website, then goes off Furthermore, his lottery would create to Washington, D.C., to try and convince a many new multi-millionaires in the U.S., bunch of politicians that his new way to pay “who would then spend or invest that for health care is better, and he does it all money and create more jobs”; there would on his own time and dime, because he cares be winnings approaching $500 million each about the future of our country.” week, predicts George. George’s next grassroots effort to When George corralled Sen. Richard make more folks aware of his proposal will Durbin (D-IL), Senate majority whip, be done closer to home. He has an empty outside his Washington office and handed billboard on the property of his Wreck- him a book, Durbin’s initial reaction was Amended auto collision repair shop that can negative, saying, “It would cannibalize the be seen by motorists traveling west on I-26 education lotteries.” as they near the exit of the Asheville Re- Not so, says George; it is completely gional Airport and NC Agricultural Center different, and he can prove it, if only Durbin on Highway 280. and other politicians would give his out-of- “I haven’t had the time or money yet to the-box thinking serious consideration. put up that sign, but I will,” promises Con- Several other well-known congress- nolly, who adds, “I’m not a lobbyist. I’m a men said they would read his book. These realist. It’s going to take someone nationally included Sen. Scott Brown (R-MA), Sen. known to publicly support my sustainable Bob Corker (R-TN), Rep. Dennis Kucinich plan before it gains real traction.” (D-OH) and Rep. Heath Shuler (D-NC). He spoke with each of them face-to-face Copyright 2010 MediaBear and put his book in their hands.

Vol. 14, No. 2 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — October 2010 29 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE what to do guide ™

Friday, October 1 Saturday, October 16 A free-will donation will be taken for dessert and break bread with the local taiyo la paix exhibit Concerts at St. ‘S Wonderful the ensemble and for the restoration of community. We’ll provide dinnerware, the beautiful and historic church. St. beverages and seating. Then sit down From 6-8 p.m. University of NC, Matthias Church The New Gershwin Matthias’ Church is over 100 years old for a collection of award-winning films Asheville, Tucker Cooke Gallery, 1st Musical brings to life and is on the national historic register. including animation, documentaries floor, Owen Hall. Sharing the walls All concerts are on Sundays and the musical genius of The church is located in Asheville and dramas. with Phillip McGuire. Show will re- start at 3 p.m. George and Ira Ger- just off South Charlotte Street at Max main up through November 8, 2010. shwin with a nos- Every third Thursday. Presented by October  – A concert featuring Street on the hill across from the Phil Mechanic Studios and Courtyard talgic ride through George and Ira Asheville Public Works Building (1 Saturday, piano and strings playing Mozart celebrated periods Gallery, 109 Roberts St., Phil Me- and Mendelssohn. Gershwin. Dundee St.). October 2 in history with the Photo courtesy chanic Studios, River Arts District, Asheville. For more info, visit www. Fleeting October 10 – Gail Ashburn will famed brothers’ mu- Ira and Leonore Saturday, October 16 perform jazz vocal standards ac- sic as the centerpiece. Gershwin Trusts. philmechanicstudios.com and www. glimpses companied with guitar and bass. Diana Wortham Theatre at Pack Place. a Mountain Home Companion ashevillecourtyard.com. Reception Mainstage Theatre Series. Shows at 2 Join Song O Sky Show Chorus with October 17 – The Pyramid Brass for fine art- p.m. and 8 p.m. Tickets: Regular $35; guests Clearwater Connection for an thursday, October 21 Quintet will perform. ist Richard Seniors $33; Students $30; Student evening of humor and close harmony. Blood done Sign Oversmith from 6 to 8 p.m. In this October 24 – Craig Carroll will Rush day-of-the-show (with valid ID) 7:30 p.m. Asheville Community The- My name new show Oversmith stays true to perform a concert on solo guitar. $10. Tickets/Info: (828) 257-4530 or atre. For tickets and more information: his vision of capturing the effects of online at www.dwtheatre.com. songosky.org or 1-866-824-9547. Tim Tyson’s critically There will be a free-will offering acclaimed memoir light on subjects as varied as a sunlit for the St. Matthias restoration barn and an Italian garden. On display Saturday, October 9 Saturday, October 16 Blood Done Sign My fund. The church is located in Name comes alive in through November 7, 2010 at 16 Asheville just off South Charlotte WnC naturally american Clay Workshop Mike Wiley. Patton Gallery, 16 Patton Ave. in Ashe- a dramatic staging by Photo: Steve Street at Max Street on the hill North Carolina at the aRCH actor and playwright Exum ville. Visit www.richardoversmith.com across from the Asheville Public Natural Products As- 9:30-11:30. Cost $50. For more details Mike Wiley, explor- Works Building (1 Dundee St.). now through november sociation invites you you can also see our listing on the ing the complex and confusing racial to boost your business fabric of America. anything goes - everything Shows calendar at www.Americanclay.com. contacts. Network, We invite groups to give us a call for Mail art exhibition For adult audiences. Mainstage The- printmaking, photography and more. meet with, and learn from local banks, special arrangements. We can provide atre Series, Diana Wortham Theatre at In the Courtyard Gallery now through Courtyard Gallery, 109 Roberts Street, funders, buyers, growers, sellers, small onsite training as well. Pack Place, 8:00 p.m. Tickets: Regular November 1, 2010. See entries from Phil Mechanic Studios, River Arts manufacturers, business strategists, and $30; Seniors $28; Students $25; Stu- technical service providers. The ARCH, Architectural Finishes, local artists as well as those from District, Asheville, NC. For more info Flooring & More, 171 Weaverville dent Rush day-of-the-show (with valid around the country and all over world. email [email protected], or visit WNC Naturally will include open Hwy, Suite 103, Asheville, NC. for ID) $10. Tickets/Info: (828) 257-4530 There will be a variety of sizes, shapes www.ashevillecourtyard.com. forum discussions about topics affect- more information call (828) 253-5455, or online at www.dwtheatre.com. and media, including collage, montage, ing all who work in or with the natural or visit www.thearchnc.com. sculpture, fiber art, digital art, painting, Friday & Saturday, October 8 & 9 products sector. 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. thursday, October 21 turn the World around Reception 5 to 6:30 p.m. Pre-Registra- October 15, poets Jeff daniel Marion and tion: $15. On site: $20. Exhibitor/ven- Womansong benefit concert will fea- 16 and 17 Linda parsons Marion to Read How to place an event/ ture songs of healing, friendship, and dor booths and registration $25. For tickets or more information please a Harvest Come hear two distinguished poets classified listing with love, along with other upbeat, eclectic of Quilts musical fare. Awareness, humor, contact: Annice (828) 251-6025 or Jen- read from their work. Jeff Daniel Mar- Rapid River art Magazine harmony, colorful visuals, and a chance nifer (828) 649-3031. Quilt Show, 10 ion, a native of Rogersville, Tennessee, Any “free” event open to the public for the audience to sing along. to 5 p.m. Friday has published eight poetry collections, October 9 & 10 and Saturday, 10 four poetry chapbooks, and a children’s can be listed at no charge up to 30 Unity Center in Mills River, NC, 7:30 Marian Cosgrove words. For all other events there is a east of asheville a.m. to 4 p.m. book, Hello, Crow. His newest collec- p.m. Proceeds will benefit Woman- Sunday. Blue Ridge Community Col- tion, Father, was published in 2009 by $9.95 charge up to 30 words and 10 song, the Womansong New Start Pro- Studio tour cents for each additional word. 160 lege Conference Hall, Flat Rock, NC. Wind Publications. gram and the Unity Kindness Fund. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Admission: $5. Free parking. Handi- word limit per event. artists of East Ashe- Linda Parsons Marion is the author Sponsored listings (shown in Tickets are $15 in advance/$18 at the capped accessible. For more informa- of two poetry collections, Home Fires door. $5 for Children 5-18. Tickets ville, Swannanoa, tion contact the Western NC Quilters boxes) can be purchased for $12 Black Mountain & and Mother Land. A new poetry col- per column inch. are available at www.womansong.org, Guild, quiltshow@westernncquilters. lection, Bound, is forthcoming in 2011. from Unity Center at 891-8700, or at Fairview invite you org, www.westernncquilters.org. Deadline is the 19th of each to visit their studios. This reading is free and open to the the door. public. At East Tennessee State Uni- month. Payment must be made Detailed maps for Sunday, October 17 prior to printing. the E.A.S.T. free versity beginning at 7:30 p.m., Rogers enjoy the Colors with the Stout Hall, ETSU. For additional Email Beth Gossett at: self-guided tour can Free Monthly Meditations be found at www. Haywood Community Band information, please contact Dr. Jesse [email protected] Nancy Livingston Graves at [email protected]. Or mail to: 85 N. Main St, Canton, Offered via teleconference calls by - Clay eaststudiotour. The band’s final concert of the season NC 28716. Call (828) 646-0071 to Mary & Barry Nadler from Mystic com, and at many begins at 6:30 p.m. This FREE concert Sunday & Monday, October 24 & 25 place ad over the phone. Heart Universe. places of business. Look for the yellow will be held at the pavilion which is signs during the tour! Many artists Beth israel Rummage Sale thursday, October 7 next to the Maggie Valley Town Hall. – Disclaimer – – The Joy of will be doing demos and some will The concert will feature “colorful This great annual event is back! Come Due to the overwhelming number of Unity Consciousness Meditation, have door prizes. You will see pottery, music,” and audience participation will check out the low, low prices on local event submissions we get for our from 8 to 8:30 p.m. EST. woodworking, glass work, painting, be encouraged! Bring a picnic dinner electronics, household items, clothes, “What to Do Guide” each month, we Saturday, October 2 – Mystic photography, fiber arts, quilting, metal and enjoy a beautiful Maggie Valley books, toys, tools, furniture and can no longer accept entries that do not Heart Universe Meditation, from arts, papier maché, jewelry, encaustic sunset. For more information visit more. Great holiday gifts for the whole specifically follow our publication’s 8 to 8:30 p.m. EST. painting and more! (828) 686-1011. www.haywoodcommunityband.org, family. Shop early for best deals and format. Non-paid event listings must call John Barrett at (828) 452-5553, or selection! be 30 words or less and both paid and In your mystic heart and the mys- Sunday, October 10 non-paid listings must provide infor- tic universe there is a completely Bob Hill at (828) 452-7530. 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. both days. Congrega- mation in the following format: date, pure and transcendent presence. Jazz Concert tion Beth Israel, 229 Murdock Avenue, time, brief description of what your To sign up for the meditation call At St. Matthias Church beginning at 3 thursday, October 21 (at the traffic light in front of Luella’s event is and any contact information. (828) 338-0042 or email mary@ p.m. Featuring Gail Ashburn singing potluck Cinema BBQ on Merrimon), north Asheville Any entries not following this format mysticheartuniverse.com. Visit jazz standards accompanied by Hank Dinner at 6:30 p.m, films start at 7 across from Weaver Park. For more will not be considered for publication. www.MysticHeartUniverse.com. Bones on guitar and Zack Page on bass. p.m. Bring your favorite side, entrée or information please call (828) 252-8431 or visit www.bethisraelnc.org. OCTOBER EVENTS ~ ANNOUNCEMENTS ~ CLASSIFIEDS

0 October 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 2 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE what to do guide ™

Fall -day intensives/ Open Studio tour at grovewood gallery alice in Wonderland, Jr. Short Workshops Celebrate American Craft Week by taking a self-guided tour of Grove- Asheville Community Theatre with John wood Studios, October 9 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Both Grovewood proudly presents our first per- Mac Kah Gallery and Grovewood Studios are housed in the historic Biltmore formance by students in our new Industries complex. Biltmore Industries originated as a craft school Production Classes! The perfor- Special topics in 1901. Grovewood Studios were established in mance will feature 28 different in painting. youth, and is directed by Chris Peg Morar in studio 1992, continuing the Biltmore Industries tradition Wednesday of supporting local craftspeople. Today, renowned Martin with musical direction by Ginger Haselden. - Friday, 9 to studio artists design and create a variety of works in glass, clay, metal, wood, and 4 p.m. Cost: Disney’s Alice in Wonderland, Jr. is adapted from mixed media, in those same workshops. Open Studio Tour is a free, self-guided the book and based on the 1951 Disney film. The $150 plus $25 tour. Grovewood Studios are located on the Grovewood Gallery grounds in Ashe- materials fee. music is adapted, added to and arranged by Bryan ville, across the street from the Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa. Visit www.grove- Louiselle with additional lyrics by David Simpatico. wood.com or call (828) 253-7651. October 20-22 Carl Powell Join Alice’s madcap adventures in Wonderland as Focus on Fall Color she chases the White Rabbit, races the Dodo Bird, It’s easy to get overwhelmed by gets tied up with the Tweedles, raps with a bubble- the sheer abundance of local blowing Caterpillar, and beats the Queen of Hearts color. Learn to control tempera- Best in Show by Phil Juliano at her own game! This fast-paced adaptation of Alice ture and contrast. Painting on in Wonderland features updated dialogue and new location to capture the unique arrangements of such classic Disney songs as “I’m mood of color and change here in Late,” “The Un-birthday Song” and Zip-A-Dee- the mountains. Doo-Dah.” On the Mainstage, October 22-24. Friday at 7:30 november 10-12 Let’s get Real p.m., Saturday and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are Painting in the studio, we will fo- $5 at the door. The Box Office will open an hour cus on texture, detail and contrast before the show. to create rich definition. Learn to Asheville Community Theatre, 35 East Walnut paint fur, feathers, grasses, bark, Street, downtown Asheville. For more deatils call foliage, and reflections. (828) 254-1320 or visit www.ashevilletheatre.org. John Mac Kah - Kah art Studio 122 Riverside drive Callie & Cats by Amy Downs (828) 225-5000 www.jmkah.com Colorfest! art of the Blue Ridge Friday, november 5 Saturday, October 2 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Weaverville art Safari Transformed into a Paris-like scene with colorful preview party umbrellas dotting each corner and alcove, Down- town Sylva will be host to some of the most accom- Preview works by artists of the plished fine artists in western North Carolina. Weaverville Art Safari at the silent auction held at the Reems Creek Golf Artists will gather underneath store awnings and Course clubhouse from 7 to 9 p.m. colorful umbrellas along the sidewalks in a day-long Tickets for the preview party are avail- event. Come experience the magic firsthand! Local able at the door for $10. musicians will set a backdrop of harmonious notes in the restaurants on Main Street. You’ll enjoy the Saturday & Sunday, november 6 & 7 art, the music, the restaurants, and hometown shops! Corgi Tales by Phil Hawkins Main and Mill Streets in Downtown Sylva, NC. Weaverville art Safari Visit www.spiritofappalachia.org or call (828) 631- From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For two days 4587 for more information. artists in the town of Weaverville and the surrounding areas open their stu- dios to the public to showcase and sell handmade craft and fine art. This is a free event. For more information visit Fall Harvest days antique www.weavervilleartsafari.com. engine and tractor Show October 21-2 Call for entries 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. rain or shine. Features antique Swannanoa Valley Fine Art tractors, hit n’ miss engines of all sizes, tractor pulls League Fall 2010 Juried Exhibi- Dragin by Michael Cole and lots of vendors selling parts. Three full days of tion, at Black Mountain Center more than 250 vendors/exhibitors, tools, antiques, for the Arts, October 29 through collectibles, toys & odd stuff! November 24, 2010. Parade, Thursday and Friday at 3 p.m., cancelled if Entry Fee: $25/one piece. Cash raining. Pulls, Friday at 5 p.m. Farm Tractors 1964 award for Best of Show. Juror: and earlier, Saturday at 10 a.m. Kiddey Pull, Saturday Philip DeAngelo. Susan Sinyai, 12 noon. Exhibit Chair, (828) 254-215. For Admission $8/day or $20 with a 3-day pass. Children entry form and prospectus email under 12 free with paid adult. Held at the Western [email protected], or visit North Carolina Agriculture Center, 1301 Fanning www.svfal.org. Bridge Road, in Fletcher, NC.

CLASSES ~ LECTURES ~ ARTS & CRAFTS ~ READINGS

Vol. 14, No. 2 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — October 2010 1 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE joe’s brew notes

BUCHi KOMBUCHa Brought to You by Asheville’s Kombucha Mamas t this year’s Beer City Festival in BY JOE ZINICH Asheville, a stand titled “Buchi” Kombucha caught my eye. A sample introduced me to the wonderfully refreshing, living, and both brew kombucha. The first recorded history of fermented beverage kombucha and They met at a home-school confer- kombucha culture dates to the Chinese Abusiness owners Sarah Schomber and Jean- ence and became friends about the Qin Dynasty around 250 BC. It fol- nine Buscher. They are the Kombucha Ma- time Jeannine was planning to sell lowed the caravan routes to Russia, mas and make their Buchi brand kombucha her kombucha at farmers markets Tibet, India, and Eastern Europe. The locally in Weaverville. and Sarah wanted to “find another Chinese called the drink “the tea of Kombucha is an ancient, cultured bev- mama and start a business”. immortality.” And much like a trea- erage that originated in the Far East. Known With remarkably similar inter- sured family heirloom, the culture was as “the elixir of life” it is a “live” health- ests, values, and kombucha recipes passed from generation to generation. drink lightly effervescent with a sweet and (their families considered the flavors Kombucha is made by brewing tart taste. It is, in essence, sweetened tea indistinguishable), they decide to tea, adding sugar and the SCOBY. Af- (black or green) fermented with the kom- brew together and sell their kom- ter about a week, the yeast and bacteria bucha culture called a “SCOBY” (symbiotic bucha out of Jeannine’s kitchen. transform the ingredients to a drink colony of bacteria and bacteria and yeasts), Demand soon outgrew their ability low in caffeine and high in probiotic and with a typical alcohol level of 0.4% to to supply and they moved to Blue bacteria (like yogurt or kefir) needed 1% depending on the manufacturer. Ridge Food Ventures, an AB Tech for healthy intestines, beneficial acids, Buchi brand (drinkbuchi.com) of food incubator program. Within minerals, and B-vitamins. It is said to kombucha is made with all organic ingre- 5 months, they created a brewing improve digestion, increase energy dients and pure mountain water. Expect a process and recipe that took Buchi and metabolism, and help the body light sweet and sour taste with a complex from kitchen pots to a full-scale pro- The Buchi Mamas, Jeannine Buscher (left) and Sarah Schomber. detoxify and normalize pH levels. flavor profile. Its natural effervescence and duction facility. In the process, they Well, I don’t know about im- refreshing taste reminds me of dry cham- became the first company to make mortality but kombucha is a delicious, pagne. Buchi is a healthy alternative to other it successfully through the food-incubator their Buchi “Original” to Buchi “Limited thirst-quenching beverage low in beverage options and is equally at home in a program and they became the first female Edition” with the use of locally produced calories and alcohol. With signifi- variety of social situations. brewmasters in the Southeast. apple juice and brought the alcohol content cant nutritional and potential health Buchi kombucha is the brainchild of The quality and flavor of Buchi has down to under 0.5%. Their resourcefulness benefits it is easy to enjoy with friends Jeannine and Sarah who met soon after driven their sales from a few gallons per and creativity kept them in Earthfare and and family. Little wonder sales have they and their families moved to Asheville. week to over 500 gallons per week in 2 short quickly got them back into Greenlife (Whole risen meteorically, doubling annually Both are stay-at-home moms, both home years. They’ve gone from two mamas in a Food); sales didn’t skip a beat. for the past four years and reaching school their children, both are focused on kitchen to two mamas in a 6000-square-foot, Not ones to rest on their laurels (2010’s $150 million in 2009. nutritionally sound foods and sustainable earth-friendly, brewing facility with 11 em- Mountain Express Best Local Food/Drink ployees. Capacity will be doubled by year- Product in WNC); they have just introduced end 2010 to satisfy continued high demand. two new flavors, Buchi “Fire” and Buchi BReW neWS That growth is remarkable. Consider, “Water”. “Fire” has a pink-red color with a For eight years, Joe zinich in midsummer the Government questioned hint of ginger flavor up front and a cayenne has been taking a self- Craggie Brewing introduces their the alcohol content of kombucha. Regula- finish; it is, as you might expect, warm and guided, high-intensity tour Germinator Doppelbock (a Ger- tions require an alcohol content of 0.5% or intense. “Water” is made with elderberry of the asheville beer scene. man-style “Double” Bock), which less for a beverage to be defined as non-al- and spirulina (a microscopic blue-green alga Contact him at: jzinich@ has a clean, malty flavor with rich, coholic and sold with beverages like water super food) with a soft, fruity, subtle flavor; it bellsouth.net. caramel undertones and a slightly or fruit juice; higher percentages have to be is, as the name implies, cool and easy. fruity finish (6%). Join them on sold in the alcoholic beverage section and la- Sundays for “Hangover In The beled to reflect alcohol content. In response, drink Buchi because of its refreshing flavor, or because it’s jam packed with Hangar” – “bring your own vinyl and Greenlife (Whole Foods) pulled all kombu- nutrients, or because it is hand crafted locally for your drinking pleasure. we’ll spin it, bring your own food cha products off their shelves. That didn’t and we’ll grill it” - from 2-8pm. Also, stop the Mamas. They quickly reformulated Whatever your reasons, enjoy. in October look for the Brewmas- ter Reserve Series that features test batches of potential seasonal beers, like a wet-hopped Belgian sour and Four-Hand Fantasy the same piano the way we do it. We don’t wear tuxedos ”real pumpkin” pumpkin ale. Also, performing music and we always talk to the audience before Tryon Distributing is now distribut- uestion: What has four legs, four by Schubert and each piece and put each work in historical ing Craggie beer in kegs throughout hands and twenty fingers that you Brahms plus some context and try to point out certain things Western North Carolina. can watch in a relaxed atmosphere fun Spanish Danc- to listen for. Watching chamber music live green Man Brewing Oktoberfest is Q with a refreshing drink in your es and a thrilling is like watching a great discussion where available. It is true to style in color, hands? Answer: A fabulous four-hand arrangement of each part gets to interject an idea and build flavor and aroma (6%) and disappears piano concert at the White Horse in Black Gershwin’s Rhap- on what has come before.” Mountain with two world-class pianists sody in Blue. fast. October also starts stout season at iF YOU gO: Saturday, October 23 at 2 “Chamber Green Man with a true-to-style Irish from New England. p.m. $12 adults, $5 students and children. stout late in the month and their Im- Pianist Daniel Weiser, a recent Ashe- Dan Weiser and Philip music is one of the The White Horse, 105C Montreat Road perial Russian stout soon after. Tanks ville transplant from Vermont, will team Liston-Kraft most exciting types in Black Mountain. For more information for their expansion are arriving soon up with Boston native Philip Liston-Kraft of music to watch and hear live.” says visit www.whitehorseblackmountain.com and they expect to have them up and in a program called “Four-Hand Fantasy.” Weiser. “Unfortunately, it has a reputation or call (828) 669-0816. running before year-end. The program will feature both men at for being a stuffy, elitist art form, but not

2 October 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 2 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE restaurants & wine What Will You Wear? - pLUS, a WaLnUt StReet Wine BaR deSeRveS a HigH-5 was recently surprised by a text mes- require us to get rich before we could af- BY MICHAEL PARKER sage that asked, “What is the dress ford to learn. have enhanced the wine drinking experience code for the tasting?” This was about a Over the next decade we watched wines without any air of exclusiveness. Their wine most people also knew because of the art Wednesday wine shop drop-in tasting, we could afford, wines we loved, quadruple thing is professionally handled in a truly connection that it was dressier than a drop- five dollars for five tastes – obviously in price. The French wines that made his- Ashevillian environment, a place where in at the wine store, but we still had to give Ino need for fine feathers. This friend, a tory were getting out of reach. We wondered someone after work on Lexington Avenue hints to some people. In this column, I was transplant from Charlotte, was used to see- if proper dress was going to be required can sit with someone who just finished blunt: “no hiking boots, no Bugaboo jacket, ing suits and ties with wine-in-hand because to purchase them from the damn shop. work at the bank. please tuck in your shirt.” he came from an office-to-bar city. Business Then came the millennium — woo-hoo! Today, using a little common sense attire in Asheville is not nearly as common. Fine Champagne, the labels we knew and works almost every time. Just think about Asheville is indeed the most casual city depended on, also got expensive. The new who will be there, the nature of the event, October events at I know; it seems the people who do know prices took the fun away, the hype was on, and its level of exclusiveness. how to dress up and are willing when it’s the well-to-do continued to drink as well as the Weinhaus called for are in the minority. In fact, we we used to. A new wine bar gets it right tuesday, October 5 have a lot of locals who obviously have Specializing in an imaginative contempt for it. As we continue to endure the Great Sometimes, there are wine Recession, we also are blessed with new combination of locally grown ingredients However, there is still something about events that warrant dressing up. with Mexican cuisine, Curras Nuevo will wine and the lingering image of the snooty venues for casual drinks. One such place, named for its address, is 5 Walnut Wine Bar. host a wine dinner for those who enjoy wine drinker. My first impression of wine Mexican cuisine with a twist. The time tasting was a hoity-toity opening scene in the But something great was also happen- It opened in downtown Asheville between Scully’s and Mellow Mushroom. Occupying is 7 p.m. The cost is $65 all inclusive. 1992 film, Year of the Comet. In this scene, ing. World wine production was exploding. Please call the Weinhaus for reservations a square room, it has still been furnished in stuffed suits swirled, sniffed, and tasted. Good and great wine makers with far less at 254-6453. (Oh-so-serious, they could not have pos- prestige were entering the market. The new such a way to comfortably seat singles and sibly been having a good time.) Then they and ever-expanding variety was wonderfully couples, but also give larger groups their tuesday, October 19 spat with their pretentious spitting dignity. entertaining, and there were new places to own sense of space. An Octoberfest celebration dinner The Japanese were made of money at explore by the bottle, and wine was on its Wines by the glass are priced at $6 and featuring wild game will be held at the the time as well, and they were paying top way to offering something for everybody. up, but there are daily $5 wine specials, Bavarian Lodge and paired with a starting dollar for the prestigious Chateau labels But wine also dressed down. Those of always at least one white and one red, some- beer and wines to go with the fine German cuisine. The time is 7 p.m. The of Bordeaux and the Domaine labels of us who preached the gospel of wine were times more. Add to that a menu of nibbles from local sources, including goat cheeses cost is $55 all inclusive. Please call the Burgundy. Those of us who were working not just caught up in the nuances of the Weinhaus for reservations at 254-6453. to learn the wines of France were facing a wine, but in the nuances that would deter- and other dips, plus boiled peanuts! changing wine world, one that seemed to mine how to dress for various wine events: The $5 special won my loyalty. (I have Friday, October 29 big city, small town, tasting for everyday long been worn out with high by-the-glass Friday night flights at the Weinhaus will customers, fundraiser for prestigious institu- prices because I am prone to spending feature “Monster Cabs”, an exploration tion, benefit for the animal shelter. lots and lots of money due to my love of Cabernet Sauvignon you can sink your Urban Loft Sometimes, there are wine events that wine. By-the-glass, however, is a service teeth into. The price is $10 for a tasting + art tour warrant dressing up. Asheville’s long-gone that allows wine drinkers to bypass a bottle of four wines and light hors d’ouvres. and much-missed Nouveau Night was such purchase and it encourages variety.) Add Time is 5:30-7:30 p.m. Held at the thursday, an event. Most people just seemed to know to that their smart decision to offer a broad Weinhaus, 86 Patton Ave., Asheville. October 14 to look good, and it was likely the price of beer list, which includes a couple of very 4:0 to 9 p.m. admission that that was their clue. Higher common cheap-beer choices. Pinot Noir The Weinhaus dollar tickets are code for “dress nicely.” and PBR can sit together at the bar. 86 Patton Avenue in Asheville View the What 5 Walnut Wine bar got right, and trendiest In the late 1990’s when I helped with (828) 254-6453 they may not even realize it, is how they downtown wine events at the Asheville Art Museum, homes and art collec- tions on a guided tour through downtown Asheville that focuses on the amazing incorpora- Great values & styles tion of art and city living. This year’s tour will include 60 FREE Wine Tastings on Saturdays North Market and the Pioneer from 2 to 5 p.m. Building. The reception will be at Private Mountain Communities in Tasting wine is not only fun, but it presents a chance to learn about the Grove Arcade. Get your tickets wine and what it is about a particular wine that you like, or don't now because this event sells out like. You can sip while you shop. Find some new favorites — try every year! it before you buy it. We will usually have a few whites and a few Asheville Art Museum, 2 South Pack reds open, with the occassional guest speaker. Please stop by! Square. $50 for members, $55 for www.theashevilleWineguy.com non-members. For more informa- tion, reservations and to purchase Wine Retail ~ Tastings ~ Wine Classes 555 Merrimon ave. tickets, call (828) 253-3227. Great wines for any occasion and budget. (828) 254-6500

Vol. 14, No. 2 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — October 2010  RAPID RIVER ARTS fine art Mixed Metals Local artists Una Barrett and David Earl Tomlinson will be featured in the F.W. Front Gallery at Woolworth Walk for the month of October.

na Barrett, of Relics of a New Age, creates jewelry that is unique and David Earl Tomlinson one of a kind. Una utilizes sterling silver, bronze, copper, gold, paper, “quilts”. The influence of the Appalachian wood, and other materials to create region’s rich quilting history should not be Uthree dimensional sculptural metaphors. overlooked, though it is a very loose inspira- These wearable tion in David Earl’s works of art. metaphors convey the Meet the artists and enjoy the opening need for exploration and reception on October 1 as well as the coin- connection between col- ciding Art Walk that runs from 5-8 p.m. lective global history and technologically driven iF Una Barrett: Jewelry, and modern society. David Earl Tomlinson: David Earl Tomlin- YOU Metalwork. Opening son is a self taught met- gO Reception, October 1 from Una Barrett alworker from Asheville. 5-7 p.m. On display through Imagining ways to allow October 30. Woolworth Walk, 25 the naturally occurring textures and colors Haywood Street, Asheville. (828) 254-9234. of rusted and decayed salvaged metal to be Gallery Hours: Monday-Thursday 11 to the focal point of a work of art inspired him 6 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 11 to 7 p.m.; to create salvaged steel (and other metals) Sunday 11 to 5 p.m.

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!

4 October 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 2 RAPID RIVER ARTS performance

HART presents Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story

ART’s next production is a major crowd pleaser that is sure to get your feet tapping and may get you dancing in the aisles. “Buddy: The HBuddy Holly Story” debuted in the West End in London in 1989 and ran to packed houses for nearly fifteen years. “Buddy” is what is referred to as a Juke Box Musical. It traces the musician’s career from his first ap- pearance on KDAV radio in Lubbock, Texas in 1957 to his tragic death in a plane crash in February 1959 and along the way treats audiences to a series of hits. The show concludes Laura Gregory and Mark Jones as Maria with Holly’s final concert at the Win- Elenia Holly and Buddy Holly. ter Dance Party in the Surf Ballroom in Clearlake, Iowa and includes the songs HART’s production of “Buddy” is of J.P. Richardson, also known as The Big being directed by Steve Lloyd and has a cast Bopper, and Richie Vallens. that includes Mark Jones as Holly, Strother In 1957 recording artists were usually Stingley as The Big Bopper, Chris Rodri- limited to four singles per year. Holly racked guez as Richie Vallens, and Trevor Perry as up fifteen gold records in fifteen months and Fats Domino along with Sean Bruce, Max recorded a lot more with his backup group Pollifrone, Roger Magendie, Laura Grego- “The Crickets.” ry, Carl Brendahl, Andrea Cody, Raymond His became a Yarnutoski, Jeremiah Jackson, Brian Nich- major influence ols, Jessica Blackwell, Alexia Grant, Paul in the music of Brummer, Holly Ann Harmon, Tabitha The Beatles, Judy, Hannah Parrott, Gina McDaniel, and Bruce Springs- Caroline Lathrop. teen and many others. Shortly before going iF “Buddy: The Buddy on the Winter Holly Story” will have Dance Party tour YOU performances on weekends Holly broke up gO through October 17. Tickets with The Crick- are $22 for Adults, $20 for Trevor Perry as ets and went Seniors, Student/child $10 with Fats Domino. out on his own. special $5 discount tickets for Students for On February 2, 1959 he boarded a chartered Thursday and Sunday performances. plane along with Richardson and Vallens. Box Office Hours are Monday-Saturday 1-5 The plane crashed killing all aboard shortly p.m. Call (828) 456-6322 for reservations after take off. For fans of Rock ‘n Roll it was or go online at www.harttheatre.com. All the day the music died. That same year Elvis performances are at the Performing Arts Presley went into the U.S. Army and the era Center at the Shelton House, 250 Pigeon St. of “Rock ‘n Roll” ended. Waynesville, NC 28786.

BLOOd dOne Sign MY naMe A dramatic stag- of Henry “Dickie” Marrow, who was ing of Tim Tyson’s black, and the subsequent acquittal of the critically acclaimed three white men charged with his death. book, Blood Done Tyson will be present to lead a pre-per- Sign My Name. The formance discussion. Due to content, performannce brings this show is for adult audiences. to life the recollec- iF YOU gO: Thursday, October 21 at tions of author Tim Mike Wiley, photo by the Diana Wortham Theatre, 8 p.m. Box Steve Exum Tyson (portrayed by Office (828) 257-4530, or visit www. acclaimed actor and playwright Mike dwtheatre.com. Wiley) surrounding the 1970 murder

Vol. 14, No. 2 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — October 2010 5

prints color RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE fine art Exhibitions at 16 Patton OCtOBeR 2 – nOveMBeR 2 OCtOBeR 2 – nOveMBeR 2 RICHARD OVERSMITH DENISE STEWART-SANABRIA Fleeting Glimpses Anthropomorphic Produce In his new show “Fleeting Glimpses,” “Anthropomorphic Produce” Richard Oversmith stays true to his vision is a new series of paintings using of capturing the effects of light on subjects vegetables and fruit acting out hu- as varied as a sunlit barn and an Italian man situations and behavior. Hu- Richard Oversmith. Afternoon Denise Stewart-Sanabria. John Mac Kah. Apples for garden. Oversmith explains, “The only way man migratory patterns, so utterly Light. Oil on panel. Hot Strung. Oil on panel. Sale (Blackberry Inn). for me to paint a subject is to experience it important in human history for sur- Oil on linen. first-hand and paint it in one session. Light vival, have geographic and political A portion of the proceeds from the sale is of the utmost importance, and the quicker boundaries today that create very complicat- OCtOBeR 2 – nOveMBeR 27 of Mac Kah’s painting The Ledges, a new 24 I can express it on my canvas the truer the ed situations. Racial differences create “us vs. JOHN MAC KAH x 48 in. oil on panel depiction of the rapid outcome will be.” them” scenarios. Human rights are violated. Landscapes: Nocturnes and Sketches section of the French Broad River just north The work in “Fleeting Glimpses” is a Is that what’s going on in these paintings, or “In a world so increasingly threatened, of Asheville, will benefit non-profit River- study of how important that first glance at a are they just hyper-realist renderings of light making paintings like these must seem Link. RiverLink is a local non-profit work- subject can be. It is during these moments saturating the color and texture of both com- naively unrealistic or at worst hopeless, ing to revitalize the French Broad River as a that Oversmith finds inspiration to create mon and exotic produce? romantic. I paint because these times and place to live, work and play. and to pursue the truth in plein air painting. Sanabria received her BFA in paint- places evoke the natural world and they Reception: Saturday, October 23, 6-8 p.m. Oversmith has been included in the ing from the University of Massachusetts/ move me in very particular ways. They August 2007 issue of American Art Col- Amherst. She paints both hyper-realist remind me always that we are part and par- lector which features a full length article “portraits” of everything from produce to cel of the whole, and I feel if nothing else, 16 pattOn Fine art gallery, 16 patton highlighting his work produced in France. subversive jelly donuts, and full-scale, cut- honored, to be able to capture a piece of avenue in asheville, nC. (828) 26-2889, “Fleeting Glimpses” includes regional plein out charcoal on plywood portraits used to that drama. I like to let the painting then be air landscapes and still lifes. create conceptual installations. www.16patton.com. gallery hours: tue-Sat an experience in itself, speak for the natural 11-6, May-October Sun 1-6. Reception: Saturday, October 2, 6-8 p.m. Reception: Saturday, October 2, 6-8 p.m. world or a piece of it.”

6 October 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 2

prints color 2010-2011 SEASON Daniel Meyer, Music Director

SATURDAY OCTOBER 16, 2010 Beethoven’s Eroica BUY Walton Crown Imperial March TICKETS Neruda Trumpet Concerto NOW! Mark Clodfelter, trumpet Hovhaness Prayer of St. Gregory Mark Clodfelter, trumpet Beethoven Symphony No. 3 “Eroica”

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SATURDAY NOVEMBER 20 SUNDAY A Midsummer DECEMBER 12 Night’s Dream 3pm MATINEE with NC Stage Co. Mendelssohn HOLIDAY POPS Finzi A fun holiday concert for all! Borodin Asheville Symphony Chorus


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Vol. 14, No. 2 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — October 2010 7

prints color RAPID RIVER ARTS explore asheville The EAST of Asheville Studio Tour October 9 & 10, from 10 a.m.to 6 p.m.

s the mercury begins to recede and the colors spread through the mountains, thoughts of cozy mo- Aments knitting sweaters by the fire come to mind. Artists grab their brushes to collect the colors and bring them to the canvas, and craft- ers all around the area are inspired to express the glory of autumn by bringing it to Steven Hall - Watercolor their craft. It is in this vein that the artists of the EAST of Asheville the group is 34 Studio Tour, in conjunction with American artists strong and Craft Week, invite you into their homes and now includes the studios for a weekend of art appreciation and Fairview area. demonstrations of the techniques employed The EAST of to create their works of beauty. Asheville Studio The Tour began in 2006 when Maud Tour will be Boleman of Black Mountain Studios, along October 9 and with twelve companion artists, began the 10, from 10 a.m. collective artist semi-annual tour. Today, to 6 p.m. Victor Chiarizia - Glass In celebra- tion of American Craft Week (www.americancraftweek.com), tour artists will be focusing strongly on demonstrating their craft. Visitors will learn a thing or two as they make their way along the rural byways of the map. Watch Maud Boleman getting her hands dirty as she forms a whimsical teapot, or Lisa Morphew demonstrate how beeswax becomes a paint- ing medium with encaustic techniques. In Fairview, sweat and stare in wonder as Victor Chiarizia pulls molten glass from his furnace and rolls, turns and blows the glass until, as if by magic, a gorgeous vase is born, or watch how easily Joe Ruminski takes a piece of storm damaged wood and spins it into a beautiful bowl on his lathe. This tour is sure to inspire and inform. Purchasing art from local artists is a wonderful way to keep dollars in the local economy, as well as support the cultural richness our area is so blessed to have. Start your holiday shopping as artists will be of- fering their works for sale with price ranges to fit any budget. This area is vibrating with artists and craftspeople and the EAST tour is a wonderful opportunity to meet the artists, and see how they do their craft. Brochures and a detailed map of the tour can be found at many places of business or online at www. eaststudiotour.com.

iF EAST of Asheville Studio Tour ,October 9 & 10 YOU from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. East gO Asheville, Swannonoa, Black Mountain, Fairview. visit www.eaststudiotour.com for more information, or call (828) 686-1011.

8 October 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 2

prints color RAPID RIVER ARTS explore asheville The Weaverville Art Safari November 6 & 7, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

he Weaverville Art Safari invites you BY ADA DUDENHOEFFER to visit the quaint mountain town of Weaverville and the sur- rounding rural areas. This T driving tour leads you via a number of well-marked signs down mountain roads to galleries, community centers and studios where you can view and purchase handmade works of art. It is a beautiful time of year to enjoy the colors of the changing leaves. Weaverville, located just ten short minutes north of Asheville in the heart of the Blue Ridge Moun- tains, offers visitors a small-town Potters Rob and Leo F. Monahan atmosphere with main street gal- Beth Mangum. abstract collage. leries, studios and eateries. This fall’s event kicks off with a pre- that produce such stunning work. view party at the Reems Creek Golf Club Get a map online, or find one at the on the night of Friday, November 5 from 7 info booth on Main Street during the event, p.m. until 9 p.m. For $10, you can purchase and share the adventure of the Safari! a ticket to this unique event and support For more information and for a complete local artists. The evening will feature a silent list of participating artists please visit auction of artist creations and other prizes www.weavervilleartsafari.com. donated by event sponsors. The $10 admis- sion ticket will permit guests to bid on silent auction items, possibly win a door prize, iF The Weaverville Art Safari and enjoy light hors Fall 2010 tour will be held d’oeuvres and a cash bar. YOU November 6 and 7, from 10 Plus, you’ll get to meet gO a.m.to 6 p.m. Studios are the talented artists and scattered throughout the get a glimpse into their Weaverville, Alexander, Barnardsville creative process. and the Reems Creek area. Art Safari signs Tickets will be avail- help direct visitors to all locations, and a able at the door, or may map is included in Art Safari brochures. The be purchased in advance studio tours are free. Maureen from Preservation Hall, The Weaverville Art Safari Preview Party is Hoxie, located on Main Street in a ticketed event featuring a silent auction, whimsical downtown Weaverville. door prizes and a cash bar. It will be held images. Don’t miss this wonder- November 5, from 7-9 p.m. at Reems Creek ful opportunity to meet Golf Club, 36 Pink Fox Cove Road, in the artists who make this Weaverville, NC. Cost: $10 at the door; $5 such an eagerly antici- for additional door prize tickets. pated event. The Weaverville Art Safari is held twice a year Steven Forbes-deSoule creates one of in April and November. a kind, raku vessels, which he forms It affords visitors the on the potter’s wheel or hand-builds. opportunity to meet and He has been a ceramic artist for over Nadine appreciate some of the 30 years and Fidelman, very talented artists who has had his jewelry. call this region home. work featured The event brings art in numerous patrons from all over the books and southeast and showcases magazines. His artisans and craft workers current work from Weaverville and is influenced surrounding areas. by the beauti- The Weaverville Art ful mountain vistas near his home Safari is unique in allow- in Weaverville, North Carolina. His ing those who appreciate studio is open for his annual 50th Fir- Jim & Shirl and support the arts to ing Kiln Opening, the Weaverville Art Parmentier, get up close and personal Safari, and by appointment. stoneware. with the creative minds

Vol. 14, No. 2 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — October 2010 9 prints color