JACKSONVILLE

FALL performing arts preview columbia restaurant | al letson for npr american idol | interview | love brigade at the cummer

free weekly guide to entertainment and more | september 27-october 3, 2007 | www.eujacksonville.com 2 september 27-october 3, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper table of contents Cover Photo Courtesy of FCCJ Artist Series for the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Photo by Andrew Eccles feature Fall 07 Performing Arts Preview ...... PAGES 14-27 Musicals ...... PAGES 14-15 Stage Plays ...... PAGES 15-17 Dance ...... PAGES 18-19 Classical ...... PAGES 21-22 Jazz & Big Band ...... PAGE 23 Family Shows ...... PAGES 24-26 Alt-Theatre ...... PAGES 26-27 movies Movies in Theaters this Week ...... PAGES 6-11 The Kingdom (movie review) ...... PAGE 6 Good Luck Chuck (movie review) ...... PAGE 7 The Game Plan (movie review) ...... PAGE 8 Sharkwater (movie review) ...... PAGE 9 Resident Evil: Extinction (movie review) ...... PAGE 10 dish The Columbia (restaurant review) ...... PAGES 12-13 Caring Chefs Profi le (Blue Bamboo) ...... PAGE 13 music Music Calendar ...... PAGES 28-33 Tea Leaf Green (interview) ...... PAGE 28 Unearth (iinterview) ...... PAGE 29 Helios Eye (interview) ...... PAGE 30 Quartet (interview)...... PAGE 31 Blistur (album review) ...... PAGE 32 August Burns Red (album review) ...... PAGE 32 arts / theatre / on stage Up & Cummers ...... PAGE 33 Al Letson (interview) ...... PAGE 34 Billie to Badu (Karpeles) ...... PAGE 35 Doubt (Hippodrome) ...... PAGE 36 columns and stuff Native Foreigner ...... PAGE 37 Netscapades ...... PAGE 38 The Jock ...... PAGE 38 NASCAR News & Notes ...... PAGE 39

eujacksonville.com | september 27-october 3, 2007 3 thisweek thursday SEPTEMBER 27 friday SEPTEMBER 28 Light the Night Walk Theatreworks presents: The Hundred The Light the Night Walk is the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s nationwide evening walk. Walkers carry illuminated balloons to Dresses Based on the Newbery Honor Book by Eleanor Estes, celebrate and commemorate the lives touched by cancer. Funds this endearing tale focuses on the diffi cult issue of raised will support their mission to cure leukemia, lymphoma, bullying and how mistreating someone because he or Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, and to improve the quality of life she is different brings as much harm to the bully as to of patients and their families. - 5:30 pm (check-in) the victim. Suitable for families of 2nd to 6th graders. Info: (904) 268-8827 or lightthenight.org Tickets: $6 Theatre- 10 am and 12 pm Info: (904) 353-3500 Jason Feller JaxCore Benefi t Show Local skate shop and cultural outlet JaxCore meant more to the people of Jacksonville than just a place Blake Shelton will be performing at the with a half-pipe inside, it housed Suicide Notes, the Ham Jam Festival Saturday night. record store, and R. Land artwork on their T-Shirts and signature skateboard decks until some crazy person drove their car through the front window. Help them get back on their saturday SEPTEMBER 29 feet at this benefi t concert featuring Crash the Satellites, the comedy of Joel Land, the art of R. Land, and more. The Pearl (on the corner of 1st and Main in Springfi eld) River City Showdown - FSU vs. Alabama comes alive as Florida State University Info: (904) 791-4499 faces-off against University of Alabama for the fi rst time in over 30 years! Jacksonville Municipal Stadium- 1 pm Airport Factory Info: 1-800-374-BOWL or gatorbowl.com/rivercityshowdown/ Clubtsi.com says “You’re going to have to listen to understand uavsfsu.asp how great” Wuden is. The haunting avant-pop sextet will join Airport Factory, which performs “Lovely Casiotone Indie Pop” at TSI downtown on Friday night. TSI, 333 E Bay St. Info: Jacksonville’s Dancing with the Stars See local celebrities like Mary Baer, Kelly Jason Feller (904) 424-3531 Goedde, Suzanne Jenkins, Stephen Vocally, Jason is a smoother, sweeter version of Bruce Springsteen Atreyu or Jakob Dylan (he has a bit of that sexy, raspy thing going on). Schnepel and Theresa Smith face off in a Lyrically, he’s a fantastic storyteller following in the footsteps of Atreyu dance-off at this fi fth bi-annual dance event Coming out of Southern California during Springsteen and the other Dylan. Hear his beautiful music this benefi ting The American Cancer Society. the rap-metal explosion around the turn of Thursday at the European Street Listening Room. European Street- Tickets: dinner and show/$95; show the century, Atreyu crafted a sound much 8:30 pm Info: (904) 399-1740 only/$25 University Center at UNF- 6 pm/ closer to Agnostic Front or Hatebreed. Their dinner, 8 pm/show Info: (904) 262-9709 or warped, detuned are matched by asocialaffair.net SEPTEMBER 27 - 28 pounding drums and acidic vocals, which give the material an edge otherwise absent Manhattan Short Film Festival from their sludge metal. See Atreyu live this Strung Out Jacksonville cinephiles get the opportunity to be a part of the Simi Valley punk band Strung Out formed Friday with Haste the Day, It Dies Today and Manhattan Short Film Festival this weekend, a worldwide movie way backing 1992. They managed to stick So They Say. Tickets: $18/advance, $20/ event taking place in 99 different cities around the globe at the around all these years thanks to their perfect day of show Plush- 6 pm Info: (904) same time. The 10-year-old event will feature 12 shorts from all fusion of and heavy metal. See 743-1845 over the world and receptions before the screenings on both nights. them live at the Freebird this Saturday with I This unique weekend at the movies is expected to sellout, so get Am Ghost and Jacksonville’s own Evergreen your tickets early! Tickets: $15 Shands Jacksonville at 5:30 pm SEPTEMBER 28 - 29 Terrace. Tickets: $15 - 8 pm Info: (904) 633-9308 Info: (904) 246-BIRD SEPTEMBER 27 - 29 Buffy Sing-A-Long Buffy the Vampire Slayer has been off the air for over four Billie to Badu Ham Jam years but fandom never dies. The Theatre knows This play explores the lives of women in music through the lives The name really says it all. The 20th Annual Ham Jam will be this, hence the Buffy Sing-A-Long, a fun-fi lled evening of Buffy of Billie Holiday (Joy Dennis) and Erykah Badu (Akia McDaniels- the biggest barbecue in Florida and will defi nitely have better on the big screen. Join 200 Buffyverse fans as they watch the Davis). Featuring live music, spoken word poetry, visual art, dance entertainment than your average backyard get together. Chow down fabulous musical episode, “Once More With Feeling,” complete and a vendor’s marketplace. (Read the review on page 35) while enjoying the musical stylings of Joanna Cotton, Eric Church, with captions for singing along and props for use during Karpeles Manuscript Museum, 101 First Street (across from Bethel Blake Shelton and much, much more. Tickets: $11-$17 Reynolds key scenes. Two nights only!! Tickets: $10.50 San Marco Baptist Institutional Church in historic Springfi eld)- Doors open at 8 Park Yacht Center, Green Cove Springs- September 27 to 29 Theatre- 11:55 pm Info: (904) 396-4845 pm Advance tickets $15 online at nokturnalescape.com or $20 at Info: (904) 838-5530 the door

4 september 23-october 3, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper Springfi eld Animal Care and Rescue Club’s 2nd Annual “Dog Days in the Park” Bring the family and four-legged friends to the Springfi eld Animal Care and Rescue Club’s 2nd Annual “Dog Days in the Park” in . This exciting free family festival features entertainment, food, games, vendors and more! All proceeds benefi t the Springfi eld Animal Care and Rescue Club, a non-profi t rescue organization in Jacksonville. Klutho Park, Historic Springfi eld- 11 am to 5 pm sunday SEPTEMBER 30 Open House at the Whitney Find out the latest happenings in local marine research at this open house held at the University of Florida’s Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience. This open house includes tours, exhibits, special speakers, children’s interactive activities, food vendors and more! Whitney Laboratory, Marineland, FL- 10 am to 3 pm Info: (904) 461-4000 or whitney.ufl .edu

Unearth Unearth is a band with melodic death, groove, and thrash metal infl uences from Winthrop, Massachusetts. Their debut album, “The Stings of Conscience,” was a popular offering in the underground metalcore scene and their newest record “III: In the Eyes of Fire” entered the Billboard charts at number 35. See Unearth with Darkest Hour, August Burns Red and Suicide Silence. See interview with Unearth on page 29 and August Burns Red album review on page 32. Tickets: $10 Freebird Live- 8 pm Info: (904) 246-BIRD

HorrorPops After forming in 1996, the members of The HorrorPops taught each other how to play their instruments and began writing songs infl uenced by surf, punk, , and of course, rock and roll. The band has toured extensively throughout Europe and the US, and has shared the stage with , Lars Frederiksen of Rancid, and many other punk legends. See the Danish sextet at Fuel this weekend. Fuel Coffeehouse- 8 pm Info: (904) 425-FUEL SEPTEMBER 30 - OCTOBER 6 UNF’s Peace Awareness Week events The University of North Florida invites your participation in an extraordinary program of activities marking Peace Awareness Week. The culminating event will be a 3-day Symposium addressing the challenge of peace development in our personal lives, our local community, our nation, and around the world. Other events throughout the week include The Mountain of Peace full-length multi-media musical, a Peace Walk Commemorating Gandhi’s birthday, live theater performances, fi lm screenings, a 2-day peace festival, interesting art exhibitions and much, much more. University of North Florida Info: http://www.unf.edu/thefl oridacenter/CTSymposium/index.html tuesday OCTOBER 2 Rich Guzzi Rich parlays his comic talents into a highly entertaining hypnosis show with maximum audience participation. These shows have it all… comedy, drama, characters, role-playing and self-awareness. Check out one of his acts during his stay in Jacksonville, beginning this Tuesday. We’re particularly curious (and a little scared) about the “XXX-Rated Hypnosis Show” he’ll be doing on October 5 and October 12. Comedy Zone Info: (904) 292-4242 wednesday OCTOBER 3 October First Wednesday Art Walk A celebration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, this special Art Walk will include: 26.2 with Donna, The National Marathon to Fight Breast Cancer at MOCA, artist Marsha Hatchers’ “Drawing With Paint” at the Art Center; CSX’s “Keep on Living” Safety Walk at the ; the grand opening of Bread & Butter and much, much more. Downtown Jacksonville- 5 pm to 8 pm Info: downtownjacksonville.com

eujacksonville.com | september 23-october 3, 2007 5 down the perpetrators. MOVIES OPENING Fleury’s team, played by Chris Cooper, Jennifer Garner and Jason Bateman, fi nd out quickly that the THE KINGDOM In the aftermath of a deadly Saudis are going to severely limit their investigative attack on American forces in Riyadh, Saudi methods. In fact, the head detective, Saudi Police Arabia, diplomats are slow to act, but mean- Captain Al-Ghazi (Astraf Barham), is tasked with the while, FBI special agent Ronald Fleury (Jamie American agents’ safety. If they are harmed, he will Foxx) assembles a secret team of U.S. counter- be beheaded. terrorism investigators to enter the city and fi nd The Saudi royal politics and strict protocol the criminal behind what has quickly become an hamstring the investigators. To get to the truth, international incident. The crew, however, fi nds Fleury establishes a rapport with Al-Ghazi, trying to their attempt to capture the perpetrators stalled get him to ease the restrictions. Al-Ghazi is very pro- by bureaucracy and their presence unwelcome. tective of his job and the Saudi’s jurisdiction in the Also starring Jennifer Garner, Chris Cooper, case. The bombing has embarrassed the Royal Fam- Jason Bateman, Jeremy Piven. Rated R ily, and the Saudis are anxious to catch the bombers themselves. THE GAME PLAN Gridiron Gang star The Rock After a frustrating few days, Fleury asks Al- picks up the pigskin once again for this sports- Ghazi to get him an audience with a Western-minded themed family comedy concerning a football prince to pave the way for his team and Al-Ghazi’s superstar who abandons the gridiron to answer men to work together to catch the criminals respon- the call of fatherhood after learning that he has sible for this terrible act of terrorism. His strategy a daughter he never knew. Kyra Sedgwick stars works. He tells the prince that he and his team are as the professional athlete’s ruthless agent who experts in counter-terrorism investigation and will would rather see her client scoring touchdowns the return of the war movies help their Saudi colleagues catch the perpetrators. than cementing familial bonds. Rated PG Fleury charms the Prince, who agrees to give them carte blanche but leaves the Saudi police in charge FEAST OF LOVE From venerable, multiple of the operation. Academy Award winning director Robert Ben- The Kingdom movie review Directed by Peter Berg, written by Matthew ton (KRAMER VS. KRAMER, PLACES IN THE Michael Carnahan and executive-produced by Mi- HEART), comes a kaleidoscopic ode to love in BY RICK GRANT [email protected] chael Mann, Berg sets up a gritty desert mosaic with all its funny, sad, sexy, crazy, heartbreaking and fast action pacing and nerve wracking suspense as extraordinary facets. This thoroughly modern B+ Rated R 110 min. in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, a crack team of FBI special the American team faces uncertain danger outside version of a Midsummer Night’s Dream erupts investigators, led by FBI Agent Ronald Fleury (Jamie the compound. Foxx is riveting as the confi dent in a tight-knit Oregon neighborhood as local After a small arms attack and truck bombing of Foxx), is sent to the scene. The team is advised to American team honcho Fleury, who tries to ease ten- professor Harry Stevenson (Morgan Freeman) the Air Force Barracks inside the American compound work closely with the resentful Saudi Police to track sions between his men and the Saudi police, some witnesses love whipping up mischief among the of whom could be working with the jihadists. These town’s residents -- who include Greg Kinnear, extremely hostile conditions test the endurance and Selma Blair, Radha Mitchell, Billy Burke, Alexa resolve of the team as the jihadists plan to kill the Davalos, Toby Hemmingway and Jane Alexander American team of infi dels in a brazen attack on their - all their stories intertwine into one remarkable convoy. romantic fable. Rated R

SHARKWATER A reasoned defense of shark’s place in our ecosystem and a horrifying illustra- tion of what is befalling them around the world. It is revealed that shark attacks are few and far between. And even when they do occur, wounds tend to be superfi cial. As it turns out, sharks happen to be the ocean’s most important preda- tor, the top of the food chain; their presence is ecologically vital to maintaining the sea’s bal- ance. And on this level, sharks--and humans as well--are facing environmental catastrophe. Rated PG

MOLIERE Imagines what happened in a pe- riod that is undocumented in famous French playwright Moliere’s own biography: the years Jennifer Garner is in familiar territory as a between his release from prison in 1645 at age Special FBI Agent. Her character fi nds working in the 22 (because his theatre company went bankrupt male dominated country frustrating. The Saudi police and he could not pay his debts) and his return resent her presence, and as a female, she is forbid- to Paris 13 years later after a triumphant career den to visit the prince. But she does her job as a as a travelling playwright and actor. The focus hard-nosed investigator and pathologist trying to fi nd is on Moliere’s relationship with Monsieur Jour- the truth. dain, a rich bourgeois who wants to learn how Soon, Al-Ghazi and Fleury’s team work well to act. Jourdain’s wife Elmire catches the eye of together, respecting each other’s abilities. They fi nd Moliere, while Jourdain himself becomes enam- evidence at the apartment building that overlooks the oured of the young Celimene. Rated PG-13 bombing site that this was the headquarters of the ji- hadists who masterminded the attack. But fi nding the actual criminals will not be easy. They are protected  by most of the population of Riyadh, who consider the American presence in the Kingdom blasphemy. Soon, all hell breaks loose at the apartment building. The team comes under heavy attack by automatic weapons fi re and RPGs. The team fi ghts back with equal intensity. These action scenes are skillfully shot using many cameras for fast action editing. For viewers, this furious action creates elevated adrena- line levels and high excitement.

6 september 27-october 3, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper one woman. Unfortunately, after he has sex with a woman, she marries the next man she dates. From the previews, it looked stunningly NOW SHOWING predictable to me. Jessica Alba’s cutely klutzy A rancher struggles to support character drew shouted predictions from the packed 3:10 TO YUMA his ranch and family during a long drought. Des- house. Every time she passed a hazard of some perately needing money to build a well, he takes sort, like stairs or waiters holding full trays, I could an assignment to transport a notorious felon, in hear people saying “She’ll never make it past that!” the hands of authorities, to Yuma for imprison- Some of her pratfalls were predictable, yes, but ment. But, once the two meet, the criminal tries that’s actually what made them funny. Others came to tempt him with--in exchange for allowing him out of left fi eld, as she dodged predictable hazards to escape--an offer of much more money than the and found slightly unconventional ways to give rancher ever expected, the result of hidden loot. herself bruises. Starring: Russell Crowe, Christian Bale, Alan Tu- Cook’s performance was a bit rough around dyk, Peter Fonda, Gretchen Mol Rating: R the edges, though he seemed to do well in the simulated sex scenes. Dane seems to have a In the unsanctioned, under- start on a career in the porno industry, but he’s BALLS OF FURY ground, and unhinged world of extreme Ping- unconvincing in scenes that feature anything other Pong, the competition is brutal and the stakes are than light dialogue or fake sex. deadly. Now, this outrageous new comedy serves There will be people who hate this movie. up this secret world for the fi rst time on-screen. That’s because the humor edges a little past raunchy Starring: Dan Fogler, Christopher Walken, George and into some really weird territory. Not that most of Lopez, Maggie Q, Thomas LennonRating: PG-13 it is original. Because it isn’t. Beyond the premise of the movie, there isn’t much that seems to be. A beautiful young woman pos- One bright comedic spot is Lonny Ross, who DRAGON WARS sesses the power to transform a legendary giant plays Cam’s stoner brother. I’m not telling you serpent into an almighty dragon who can only as- don’t take your mother anything about him, because he may well be the cend into heaven with the woman’s ultimate sac- movie’s comedic saving grace for you, depending on rifi ce. But the forces of darkness are out to claim your sense of humor. the young woman as their own. Rated PG-13 Good Luck Chuck movie review My problem with the movie was that Dane Cook was hobbled by the romantic comedy aspect Naomi Watts is a London of the movie. His side-kick best friend (Dan Fogler) is EASTERN PROMISES midwife who looks into the death of a patient, BY ERIN THURSBY [email protected] happily not restrained, and has some of the funniest putting her in the sights of a ruthless Russian the soft-core porno. Girls will be asking themselves: (but raunchiest) bits of dialogue. He was the main C+ Rated R 94 min. mobster. Viggo Mortensen as the mysterious and will he get the girl? The guys will wonder if Jessica reason that I saw people leaving the theatre. His foul- charismatic Russian-born Nikolai Luzhin is a driv- Breasts. Yep. If you go to see Alba’s perky set will ever grace the screen. mouthed dialogue was actually one of the reasons I Good Luck er for one of London’s most notorious organized , you’re going to see a lot of them. The good If you’ve seen the previews, you’ve got the stayed in my seat. I kept waiting for Fogler and Ross Chuck crime families of Eastern European origin. Rated R news for guys is that every couple of minutes, gist of the story: Charlie discovers that after he to appear, and it was always worth a few laughs a breast will appear on the screen. (Sometimes dates a girl, the very next guy she meets, she falls when they did. A man breaks up with his several, in a split screen effect.) And, you might in love with and marries. He becomes known to The Bottom Line: Don’t take your mother to GOOD LUCK CHUCK long-time girlfriend only to see her get engaged to even score points with your girlfriend, because it’s the female population as the “good luck charm” this movie expecting it to be the sweet romantic the next guy she dates. The same pattern occurs actually a chick fl ick. Kind of. It’s more like a guy’s that can help them fi nd “the one.” This reputation comedy promised in the previews. It CAN be a great with his next girlfriend, and continues to repeat. movie masquerading as a chick fl ick. There will means lots of desperate messages on Charlie’s date movie, but only if both of you have a somewhat All of a sudden he fi nds himself becoming a lucky be the occasional girl who will actually buy it as a answering machine. It also means lots and lots of raunchy and twisted sense of humor and neither of charm for women, who all want to date him. chick fl ick, but really, what with the gross-out sexual sex for Charlie. Once he meets Cam (Jessica Alba), you will be offended or embarrassed by the parade Starring Jessica Alba, Dane Cook, Dan Fogler, humor, it’s perfectly acceptable to get together with he wants to give up his life of serial sex for just of breasts. Michelle Harrison, Ellia English. Rated R a bunch of the guys and watch it. So Good Luck uncomfortably straddles the line between a Chuck Under the direction of Rob Zombie romantic date movie and the kind of thing you can HALLOWEEN there is a new take on the legend and a new watch with your beer-drinkin’ buddies. chapter in the Michael Myers “Halloween” saga. Starring: Daeg Faerch, Danielle Harris, Malcolm McDowell, Danny Trejo, and Sheri Moon. Rated R

HARRY POTTER AND THE ORDER OF THE PHOE- NIX Rumors of Lord Voldmort’s return have been dismissed. Harry and Dumbledore are targeted by the Wizard Authorities. And, an authoritarian bureaucrat gradually seizes power at Hogwarts. It’s jungle of wizards out there with special effects galore. Rated PG-13

I NOW PRONOUNCE YOU CHUCK AND LARRY Two single fi refi ghters, Chuck (Adam Sandler) and Larry (Kevin James) are best friends. Larry saves Chuck’s life and he is willing to do There is something in it for the girls; there are anything to even the score, even masquerading “Aw!” moments in the movie, wherein something as a gay couple to receive benefi ts for Larry’s is either adorable or really romantic. The biggest kids, which means they have to go through a problem in taking your girl to one of these is that ceremony, have a honeymoon, and live together. at some point during the fl ick she’s going to punch Rated PG-13 your arm really hard and whisper “I wish YOU’D do that.” But then, a breast appears, and whatever On his fi rst weekend punching pain you’ve suffered will drift away. IN THE VALLEY OF ELAH back after serving in Iraq, Mike Deerfi eld goes While there’s something to be said for mass missing and is reported AWOL. When Hank Deer- appeal, the movie seems to do too much and try too fi eld and his wife Joan get the phone call with the hard to be too many different things at once. There’s disturbing news, Hank sets out to search for their the gross-out humor aspect, something that’s been son. Emily Sanders, a police detective reluctantly showing up more and more in romantic comedies, there’s the sappy-sweet love story and of course, 

eujacksonville.com | september 27-october 3, 2007 7 helps him in his search. As the evidence grows, the case begins to look like foul play, and soon Sanders fi nds herself in a fi ght with the military brass. Starring: Tommy Lee Jones, Charlize Theron, Jason Patric, Susan Sarandon, Jonathan Tucker. Rated R

MR. BEAN’S HOLIDAY In his latest misadventure, Mr. Bean--the nearly wordless mis- fi t who seems to be followed by a trail of pratfalls and hijinks--goes on holiday to the French Riviera and becomes ensnared in a European adventure of cinematic proportions. Starring: Rowan At- kinson, Willem Dafoe, Emma De Caunes, Jean Rochefort, Karel Roden. Rating: G

MR. WOODCOCK John Farley, author of a best- selling self-help book, returns to his hometown to receive the community’s highest honor. While there, John learns that his widowed mother, Beverly, is engaged to Mr. Woodcock, the gym teacher whose sadistic exploits were the bane of rock goes family fi lm John’s youth. Abetted by his old pal, Nedderman, John plots to break-up the relationship. Starring: Billy Bob Thornton, Seann William Scott, Susan The Game Plan movie review Sarandon, Kurt Fuller, and Amy Poehler. Rated PG-13 BY RICK GRANT [email protected] MY BEST FRIEND François is a middle-aged antique dealer. He has a stylish apartment and a B+ Rated PG 110 min but he reluctantly takes her into his home and tries to fabulous life, but at a dinner with a group he con- fi nd out what the hell is going on. Meanwhile, Peyton siders his dearest acquaintances, he is blindsided In this Disney family movie, Wayne “The Rock” makes herself at home. by the revelation that none of them actually likes Johnson gets star billing as the vainglorious Boston Since taking in Peyton, Kingman’s social life him. His business partner Catherine challenges Rebels’ quarterback Joe Kingman. However, pint- has drastically changed, and it doesn’t take long for him to produce his best friend which doesn’t sized Madison Pettis as Peyton James steals his the press to fi nd out that the biggest star in the NFL come easy for Francois. Ultimately, he learns the thunder as the precocious eight-year old girl who has a new long-lost daughter living with him. King- cost of cheating at friendship. Rated PG-13 turns Kingman’s world upside down. She is a rising man must adapt quickly to this drastically changing star with gobs of acting talent and a knack for com- situation, as he now has to worry about getting her ONCE ‘Once’ is just a simple love story about a edy. to dance class and looking out for her welfare. King- Guy with a guitar, a Girl with a borrowed piano, Although the movie is written to Disney’s pre- man is still clueless about parenting, but as time and the music they make together ... and it’s one dictable formula, it’s 110 minutes of family fun with goes on he’s getting the hang of it. At fi rst, he’s a of the most heartbreakingly perfect fi lms you’ll plenty of laughs. Johnson shows his skill at comedy, terrible father, but his agent, Stella (Kyra Sedgwick), see this year. Starring: Glen Hansard, Markéta working well with Pettis to pull off some hilarious gets involved and spins the story to her and King- Irglová, Bill Hodnett, Danuse Ktrestova. Rating: R scenes. The truth is, this little girl Pettis is just so man’s benefi t. adorable as the counterpart to Johnson’s body- Meanwhile, Peyton is a bright little girl who RESIDENT EVIL: EXTINCTION Alice, now in builder physique and toothy grin. They truly make an quickly learns how to manipulate her dad. He enrolls hiding in the Nevada desert, once again joins endearing duo. her in a ballet class headed by Monique (Roselyn forces with Carlos Olivera and L.J., along with Joe Kingman is a typical swinging NFL star Sanchez–Without a Trace) who recognizes Peyton’s new survivors Claire, K-Mart and Nurse Betty to bachelor, playing the fi eld and enjoying time with talent and bends the rules to take her into the class. try to eliminate the deadly virus that threatens to his buddies. Kingman’s frat-house pad has all the To promote Kingman as a single “ballet dad,” Stella make every human being undead...and to seek electronic toys and gadgets that any fun loving trades in his sports car for an SUV, much to his cha- justice. Since being captured by the Umbrella multimillionaire could dream of having. He drives an grin. Corporation, Alice has been subjected to biogenic expensive sports car and his ego is bigger than the Gradually, though, Kingman is beginning to xperimentation and becomes genetically altered, stadium where he leads his championship team, the realize that having a daughter is an awesome re- with superhuman strengths, senses and dexterity. Boston Rebels. sponsibility and it’s far more important than money These skills, and more, will be needed if anyone is One day, out of the blue, his daughter Peyton or fame. For the fi rst time, Kingman is thinking about to remain alive. Rated R shows up at his door with her luggage. Of course, someone else other than himself. This changes ev- Kingman is fl abbergasted that he even has a daugh- erything for him and makes him a better person and RUSH HOUR 3 The unlikely duo is headed to the ter. The bright little girl tells him that her mother is football player. City of Lights to stop a global criminal conspiracy away in Europe on a business trip and she is sup- Despite its fl aws, this is an ideal picture to take and save the life of an old friend, Ambassador posed to stay with her father. A long-lost daughter the kids to see, and parents won’t be bored with it. Han’s now-grown daughter, Soo Yung. Starring: could sure put a crimp in his freewheeling lifestyle, Johnson is appealing and adept at getting laughs. Jackie Chan, Chris Tucker, Max von Sydow, No- emie Lenoir, Hiroyuki Sanada. Rating: PG-13

SHOOT ‘EM UP Clive Owen stars in this gritty, over-the-top action thriller as Mr. Smith, a gun- toting badass with a hair trigger and an unknown past. He discovers an woman delivering a baby right in the middle of a gunfi ght and enters the fray to save her. Though the woman expires, he is the one left in care of the orphaned child. Smith takes the child to the closest thing he knows to a mother: a sultry prostitute known as Dairy Queen, played by Monica Bellucci, who specializes in clientele with a mommy fetish. Teamed with his hot but unlikely partner DQ, Smith unloads bar- 

8 september 27-october 3, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper Stewart goes on an expedition with the Sea Federation’s magazine and as an award-winning Shepherd Conservation Vessel as it tries to stop freelance photojournalist. Stewart is a master diver illegal long-line fi shing and the corrupt fi n-fi shing logging thousands of hours underwater studying business, now condemned by most countries. The shark behavior. playing nice with Sea Shepherd tries to get the governments involved While on assignment fi lming sharks in the with arresting the poachers. This aggressive vessel Galapagos Islands, Stewart found his cause celebre is known to ram and sink a boat when necessary. when he discovered illegal long-lining which indis- The greedy poachers cut the fi ns of sharks that are criminately killed sharks within the marine reserve still alive then throw them back into the sea to die a just for their fi ns. Over a period of time, Stewart tried miserable death. Stewart proves that shark fi ns have promoting a campaign to stop this cruel practice, but sharks no medical or benefi cial quality, but Asians still pay no one would listen. So, Stewart decided to make enormous sums of money for the delicacy made into a documentary that would win awards and get his a soup. In some Asian countries they believe that cause noticed. interview with Sharkwater fi lmmaker “We are releasing the fi lm wide in the United BY RICK GRANT [email protected] States on Nov. 2, A Rated PG 91 min. sharks are man-eating machines to be killed at will 2007, which will or hunted for their meat and fi ns. Documentary fi lm- get it into the holi- Steven Spielberg’s famous fi lm Jaws inad- maker Rob Stewart has dedicated his life to fi lming day schedule. I’m vertently created the myth that sharks are mindless sharks to dispel the myths about this sleek, intel- confi dent the fi lm predators hell bent on eating humans. Spielberg’s ligent, and graceful animal, which Stewart proves will do well and large mechanical shark was a toothy monster from poses no threat to humans. setup a dialogue the deep and that fi lm perpetuated the myth that “[Jaws] did have a negative impact on the that will lead to public’s perception that sharks are mindless change. We also man-killers. Of course, there have been many have school pro- Rob Stewart anti-shark fi lms, like the latest, Open Water,” grams available. said Stewart when asked about the impact the It’s all about edu- media has on people’s perception of sharks as cating the public.” man-eaters. The fi lm was Today, some species of shark have been a runaway hit on hunted to almost extinction for their meat and the festival circuit. fi ns. This stunning high-defi nition documentary It won just about is a reality check that illustrates how important since sharks never get sick with human diseases every best documentary award at every major fi lm sharks are to the delicate ocean ecology. Stew- (such as cancer) they have a special chemical in festival this year, including Canada’s Top Ten award. art swims with sharks, studies their behavior, their bodies that, when consumed as food, will Sharkwater has since gone on to become the most and feeds them by hand, debunking the stereo- transfer into the person. It’s completely untrue. award-winning documentary of the year. Sharks are types and the media-fed mythology. He has lob- Stewart even got arrested in Costa Rica for an important asset to the oceans’ ecology and they bied governments and faced prison and death to his part in fi lming an incident with a fi n fi shing ves- are not the vicious man-eating monsters of the fa- get his message to these poor countries. sel that fought back. But he managed to slip out of mous anti-shark movies. Hopefully, this riveting fi lm “Sharks have been in our oceans for over the country before being sent to jail. Before fi lming will change conventional thinking about sharks and 400 million years. They have survived fi ve major Sharkwater, Stewart spent four years traveling the help to make long-line fi n fi shing illegal around the extinctions and now they are being fi shed out. world as chief photographer for the Canadian Wildlife globe. Many countries have no sharks left because they are being illegally harvested for their fi ns. But there was no movement to save the sharks until I made this fi lm. I’ve spent my whole life swimming with sharks and they go out of their way to avoid me. They are highly intelligent and sense our energy. I’ve learned to dive with a calm energy and when they sense that they will swim over to me. They are curious, and want to learn what humans are all about. All shark attacks are accidents–that is, the shark mis- takenly thinking a surfer, for instance, is a seal. They bite and then usually let go. Humans are not on the shark’s menu. But it’s their world that we invade.”

eujacksonville.com | september 27-october 3, 2007 9 rel after barrel to protect the baby from Mr. Hertz (Paul Giamatti) a ruthless criminal mastermind.

SUPERBAD Two co-dependent high school guys want to hook up with girls before they gradu- ate and go off to different colleges, but, after a calamitous night just trying to buy alcohol for a school party, overcoming their separation anxiety becomes a greater challenge than getting the girls. Starring: Seth Rogen, Jonah Hill, Michael Cera, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, and Bill Hader. Rated R

SYDNEY WHITE Gorgeous freshman Sydney White has come to Southern Atlantic University to pledge her late mom’s once-dignifi ed sorority. But while surviving the pledging process wrought by evil campus witch Rachel, Syd fi nds out this version of sisterhood isn’t remotely what it’s cracked up to be. Banished to a condemned house on Greek Row, Syd fi nds her rightful place with a band of seven very socially challenged guys. Star- ring Amanda Bynes, Matthew Long, Sara Paxton, Jeremy Howard, Crystal Hunt. Rated PG13 post-apocalyptic zombie

THE BOURNE ULTIMATUM Jason Bourne is hunted by the people who made him what he is-a legendary assassin. Having lost his memory and video game movie the one person he loved, he is undeterred by the barrage of bullets and a new generation of highly- trained killers. Starring: Matt Damon, Joan Allen, Julia Stiles, David Strathairn, Paddy Considine. Resident Evil: Extinction movie review Rated PG-13 BY NORM STOVALL [email protected] THE BRAVE ONE Neil Jordan’s The Brave One stars Jodie Foster as a happy woman whose life C+ Rated R 95 min. entertain those interested in the subject matter, changes irrevocably after a brutal assault leaves which mainly consists of good-old zombie killing her partner (Naveen Andrews) dead. The woman, Right off the bat, viewers should be aware and action sequences. feeling that the police investigation will be unable that this is a video game movie. Not a movie about As the movie starts, you learn that the T-Vi- to catch the perpetrators, begins to live in constant video games or a movie that you control like a rus which has turned the entire population of Rac- fear. This outlook results in the woman eventually video game, but a movie that is based (loosely) coon City into zombies, has spread throughout the dispatching vigilante justice. Terrence Howard on a popular video game series. Secondly, it is a entire globe, and has not only turned the people co-stars as the offi cer in charge of the investiga- legitimate zombie-killing splatter movie, so fans of of the world into living dead, but the animals too. tion. Rated R that genre may very well enjoy it so long as they Even the vegetation seems to be infected, and can get past the previous statement that this is a North America has become a barren wasteland video game movie. I wouldn’t harp on game-based covered in sand. While the population of Earth is THE NANNY DIARIES A 21-year-old New York University student becomes a nanny to a movies so much if I hadn’t learned that they are all almost completely converted to zombies, there are family on the Upper East Side who turns out to be inherently terrible. Mortal Kombat? Check. Super a few small groups who have remained. One such the family from hell. Starring: Scarlett Johansson, Mario Brothers starring Bob Hoskins? Check. group is a convoy of survivors headed by Claire Laura Linney, Paul Giamatti, Chris Evans, Donna Alone in the Dark? Check. The Wizard starring Redfi eld, whose only mission is to help the women Murphy. Rating: PG-13 Fred Savage? No, wait, that wasn’t based on one and children of their group survive. On the other specifi c game, so technically it was an awesome side, there is the evil Umbrella Corporation, the movie. original creator of the T-virus. These people live in THE SIMPSONS MOVIE The Simpsons fi nally make it to the big screen. In this adventure, Homer So anyway, regardless of what ‘type’ of mov- huge underground lairs under major metropolitan mistakenly pollutes Lake Springfi eld and sets into ie Resident Evil: Extinction is, you should probably areas, and they essentially have control over the motion a government plot to destroy their city. understand a little about the background and the planet, though their health is waning due to the D’oh! He must somehow manage to save Spring- plot so you can make an educated decision on totality of the infection on the planet. Their main fi eld and restore his family’s faith in him. Rated whether or not you should waste your time with it. goal is to fi nd a cure for the T-virus, which just PG-13 So who is this movie for? Well, it probably isn’t for so happens to be the main character Alice, who hardcore fans of the Resident Evil Series of games, roams the desert and eventually meets up with as the pacing is much quicker, and the scares are Claire Redfi eld’s convoy. TRANSFORMERS The earth is caught in the middle of an intergalactic war between two races much fewer. Not only that, but the story is written As you can probably guess, the movie goes of robots– the heroic Autobots and the evil Decep- in such a different way, that they don’t really com- from there, with Claire’s group working together ticons. Both are able to change into a variety of pare all that much. Although I’d have to say, I think with Alice (who is a total badass, by the way) to objects, including cars, trucks, planes, and other the acting is probably on the same level, though stop Umbrella and save the convoy. machines. Rated PG-13 I’m not so sure that is a good thing. The scenery in the movie is amazingly believ- As a sequel and the fi nal movie in the trilogy, able, with a spectacularly well-done recreation is (remarkably) the most of Las Vegas, which is for the most part covered UNDERDOG A bumbling watchdog gets ex- Resident Evil: Extinction posed to a substance that gives him the powers enjoyable of the series. While the fi rst movie relied in sand. Filmed on location in northern Mexico, of a superhero. He is adopted by a 12-year old heavily on mid-tier CGI, and the second movie everything fi ts right in and is for the most part very boy and uses his superpower to protect his love was pretty much B-level action with elements of believable. Additionally, the action sequences are the game series tossed in for fan service, albeit done pretty well, and everything fl ows together  unsuccessfully, Resident Evil: Extinction stands on surprisingly well. Ali Larter (Claire) and Milla Jovo- its own as a movie, fi rst and foremost. In Extinc- vitch (Alice) both excel as action stars, and though tion, it seems to balance out a bit, with just the this fi lm isn’t exactly what I would call blockbuster right amount of action, horror, and gore. Though material, I have to say that as a zombie movie, it the story is still a little bit corny and there are was enjoyable, and it could have been a lot worse. certainly some WHAT THE F*** moments, such I still think movies based on video games suck, but as the main character, Alice’s apparent psionic Resident Evil: Extinction may have mellowed my abilities, the movie is paced well and will certainly harsh just a little bit.

10 september 27-october 3, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper and the citizens of Capitol City from the evil Simon Barsinister. Starring: Alex Neuberger, Jason Lee, Diz White (II), Peter Dinklage, James Belushi. Rated PG

NOW SHOWING

Not Just for Baby Boomers Film Series The Jacksonville Public Library Main Branch will have a FREE 5:45 showing every 2nd and 4th Thursday of a classic fi lm in the Auditorium with complimentary popcorn and soda. MIDNIGHT COWBOY will be screened on September 27. Info: 630-2665 or www.jaxpubliclibrary.org/li- brarynews/main_boomers_2007.html

Night Owl Cinema Series The St. Augustine Amphitheatre will be hosting a Night Owl Cinema Series. Friday, Septem- ber 28, see, THE SAND LOT, Rated PG. Food will be provided by various local restaurants so come early and hungry. Doors open at 6:30 pm and the movie start 8 pm. The Amphitheatre is located 1340 A1A South in St. Augustine. Info: 904-471-1965 or staugamphitheatre.com.

Midnight Movie The San Marco Theatre will be hosting the BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SING A LONG, Friday and Saturday, Sept 28 and 29 at 11:5p.m. Experience Once More With Feeling with 200 other adoring fans all singing their hearts out. Props will be handed out for key scenes and there will even be a special vide-oke contest. For more info: 396-4845 or sanmarcotheatre.com. For any R. Kelly fans, San Marco Theatre will screen TRAPPED IN A CLOS- ET the fi rst 12 chapters on Fri., Oct. 12 at 11:55 pm along with the mind bending commentary he provides. Sat., Oct. 13 the new installment of TRAPPED IN A CLOSET will be screened as well. Both screenings will be FREE.

Friends of the Fest (Formerly Reel People) Jacksonville Film Events’ Viva Cinema presents LIVE-IN MAID starring: Norma Aleandro, norma argentina, Marcos Mundstock, Raul Panguinao, Susan Lanteri on Oct. 14, at 1 pm at the San Mar- co Theatre. Info: 396-4845 jacksonvillefi lmevents. com/events_reel.htm

IMAX Theater HARRY POTTER AND THE ORDER OF THE PHOENIX is being shown on the 80-foot-wide by six-story-high screen at the IMAX Theatre through October 4th. The IMAX Theatre is located in the Word Golf Hall of Fame, One World Golf Place, St. Augustine. Info and tickets: 904-940-4022 or wgv. com.

eujacksonville.com | september 27-october 3, 2007 11 dish. where to eat, drink and be merry.

an old town treat Columbia Restaurant

BY ERIN THURSBY [email protected] The thing that will hook you about the Columbia Restaurant, before that fi rst piece of bread hits the ta- ble, is the atmosphere. The arches, the skylight that streams natural light from their second fl oor down to the indoor patio, the small touches, like old photos of Spanish dancers, all set you up for a dining experience. The bar area isn’t as impressive, though it is very nice. The restaurant is huge, and my waitress said it would seat more than 600 guests. Upstairs has a great view of historic St. Augustine, if you can get a seat by a window. I always get the feeling that Zorro is going to leap out at any moment, swinging down from the second fl oor amidst the white stucco arches and the tile detailing. As far as I know, he never has. While I don’t normally talk about a restaurant’s parking area, I should note that Columbia has a spacious lot adjacent to the restaurant, just off of St. George Street. This is important because parking in the historic (read: tourist) part of St. Augustine is not always easy to fi nd, and in the sweltering heat, it’s worth it. The attendant will give you a parking slip, which you can have validated on the way out. You get two hours max if it’s validated in the restaurant, after that you pay per hour ($3). Though I love the food at Columbia, it can sometimes be hit or miss as far as service is concerned. I’ve been there when the service was outstanding, and I’ve been there when it’s been, well, not so stellar. It seems to alternate between tourist trap and a local St. Augustine hangout, but once you fi nd the item on the menu that you love, you’ll come back again and again, just for that. As is so often the case, my item of choice is one of their desserts, a chocolate bread pudding, but I’m

The Gleam from the Juice Bar at Present Moment Cafe. Look for our full review in next week’s EU.

pages 12 - 13 columbia restaurant review caring chefs profile: dennis chan page 13

12 september 27-october 3, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper also partial to their Cuban Sandwich. The chief reason for that is their awesome Cuban bread. For that alone I would come back again and again. It is perfection. They bring it to your table wrapped in paper, hot and love- ly, ready for butter to spread on its crusty goodness. Real Cuban bread is a rarity, and because I remember it from my childhood in Miami, I must have the real thing. I’m disappointed by most imitation Cuban breads. caring chefs profi le Real Cuban bread is made with lard, so it has a particular fl avor you won’t fi nd in French bread and it tends to go stale within about twenty-four hours. I have never had a stale piece at Columbia (at this location or at the Ybor city one in Tampa) and the incredibly thin, papery yet hard crust, has Dennis Chan of Blue Bamboo always lived up to my expectations. So I must admit; the item I really go back for is the bread. I’m a slave to Columbia’s Cuban bread. BY ERIN THURSBY [email protected] Locals dig the black bean soup, so if you’re a fan of soup What: Caring Chefs you might want to give it a taste. Gazpacho Andaluz also has its When: Sunday, Oct. 21st @ 7-9:30 pm devotees. This famed cold soup of pureed ripe tomatoes, green Where: The Avenues Mall peppers, onions, cucumbers and garlic is topped tableside with fi nely diced vegetables and toasted Cuban croutons. The 1905 Caring Chefs is certainly the premier food event of salad is also a big winner, in part because every salad comes the year here in Jacksonville. All proceeds go to the with a little theater. They toss it right at your table. It’s chock full of baked ham, along with Swiss, tomato, olives, grated Children’s Home Society, so ticket holders can have both cheese and their delish garlic dressing. The salad base is a the satisfaction of helping those less fortunate and be classic iceberg lettuce, which has disappeared in most restau- able to sample food from some of the First Coast’s fi nest rants, in favor of “mixed spring greens.” Once in a while I run restaurants. For the next few weeks we’ll be profi ling some into an iceberg wedge salad, but you don’t see it much in nicer of the chefs involved. This week, we’re profi ling Blue restaurants anymore. While I prefer Romaine, I lament this, Bamboo’s Dennis Chan. since iceberg lettuce can be a grand, crisp base for a fl avorful salad. Lunch is a busy time for the place, as it should be. Dinner Name: Dennis Chan is a tad steep in price, but it can be worth the splurge if you’ve Restaurant: Blue Bamboo Restaurant and Wine Bar got a hankering for high-end Hispania food. A tapeo is a great way to start your meal, or just snack on as you sip your mojitos. I had the Tapeo de Mixta, a three tiered EU: Why do you participate in Caring Chefs? How many tapas tower with small portions of three appetizers. The best of the three was the Costillitas de Cordero, ten- years have you der baby lamb back ribs, glazed with guava barbecue sauce. I enjoyed the Shrimp and Crabmeat Alcachofas, done the event? a baked casserole of shrimp, crabmeat and artichoke hearts topped with grated Romano cheese. That came DC: We’ve participated in caring chefs for 3 years now. with the rightly bland and powdery Cuban crackers, offsetting the intense taste of the dip. Their Calamari The event supports the Children’s Home Society, and they tapas was passable, but it wasn’t my pick out of the three. are an amazing organization.

EU: What are the three ingredients you can’t live without? DC: Ginger, Garlic, Scallions. They are the Asian mirepoix.

EU: Appetizer entree or dessert? Why? DC: Dessert. I have such a sweet tooth!

EU: What’s the strangest dish you’ve ever prepared? DC: I once tried to make a turducken. It’s a Turkey, stuffed with a duck, stuffed with a chicken. What a nightmare!

EU: What’s your favorite dish to eat? Prepare? DC: Anything Fried. Fried is my favorite fl avor.

EU: Can you let us in on what you’ll be serving at the event? DC: Every year we have so many requests for our chile noodle salad. We will be serving that, and a couple of other surprises!

Tickets for the event are $60, but it’s best to buy them in advance, since they are generally sold out by the night of the event. Go to chsfl .org/buckner to register for tickets or call (904) 493-7739 for more info.

As is customary with good paella, theirs takes about 30 minutes to make, and it’s worth the wait. They’ve got three different versions on the menu to choose from. I ate the Paella “Marinera” which is a com- bo of Valencia rice with clams, mussels, shrimp, scallops and calamari. Sauces for seafood, especially their mahi-mahi are excellent, but they sometimes overcook the fi sh. Make sure you ask your waiter about how much you want your fi sh steak cooked. They follow a traditional method so they cook the fi sh more than the near-raw fi sh steaks you can get at trendy eateries. If you’d rather have it cooked to a different temperature, make sure you ask. For dessert, fl an is, of course, a favorite, but I’d go for their Bacardi Rum soaked White Chocolate Bread Pudding. It’s decadent and doused in a creamy, dreamy rum sauce, which would cause most alcoholics to fall directly off the wagon. All in all, it’s a great dining choice for a trip to the Old Town.

eujacksonville.com | september 27-october 3, 2007 13 fall performing musical theater, revues and tributes by erin thursby

Musicals do not represent the landscape of the unfamiliar. They, like hit pop songs, have to have something simultaneously fresh yet utterly relatable. In other words—hummable. If you’re humming the arts preview songs on the way out of the theater, they’ve got you! You can fi nd some of the most hummable stuff at the Alhambra, the area’s only Equity Theatre. This season, among others, they’re doing Company as well as Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream- coat. “It’s the fi rst music Andrew Lloyd Webber did and he wrote it as a short children’s musical which was later expanded,” says Tod Booth, executive director of the Alhambra. Even though they are an Equity Theatre, they often fi nd ways to involve the community. According to Booth, each week during the Joseph production, the Alhambra is using a different junior high chorus or choir to augment their professional players. The production of Company is sure to be a blast from the past for Booth as “it was one of the fi rst shows I did here…in ’85.” Though it was well received, Booth contends that “Jacksonville wasn’t ready for it at the time” though he thinks it is now. Company was just on Broadway for a revival run, and it’s still just as relevant as it was then. “It’s really very New York…” The FCCJ Artist Series has been bringing top quality touring shows to Jacksonville since 1966. Ex- ecutive Director Dr. Milton Russos says that the selections went from “celebrity lectures and concerts… to more musicals and Broadway shows.” Many of the shows are fresh from a run on Broadway, or are on Broadway with a touring company doing tours around the country. Russos works hard to scout shows so they can always have an interesting and diverse line-up. Among others this season, you’ll fi nd the comic musical Spamalot and The Wedding Singer, which was adapted from the screenplay into a musical. Whatever your fl avor of musical, you’ll fi nd something in the area to entice you, be it The Fantasticks at the Limelight in St. Augustine or the Players by the Sea’s Cabaret.

alhambra Us Together and many more. Info: (904) takes us back to a time when hair was 641-1212 or 1-800-688-7469 Tickets: big, greed was good, collars were up and a wedding singer sporting a mullet might October 10 - November 25 Joseph and $39-46, includes dinner and show. Loca- be the coolest guy in the room. Don’t the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat tion: The Biblical saga of Joseph and his coat miss the party! Info: (904)632-3373 or of many colors comes to vibrant life in February 13 - April 6, 2008 Company artistseries.fccj.org. Location: Times- this delightful musical parable. A young Presently on Broadway, this is a trend Union Center, Moran Theater setting musical that follows our anti-hero man’s dreams get him into trouble with November 16, 2007 8:00 pm bachelor Robert as he makes his way 3 Mo’ his 11 brothers, who sell him into slav- It’s an exciting musical journey through a series of encounters with April Divas ery. A series of misfortunes befall him celebrating the amazing versatility of the (the stewardess), Kathy (the girl who’s until his gift at interpreting dreams raises female voice! The theatrically staged going to marry someone else), Marta him to great power, and reunites him with concert is a magnifi cently entertaining (the “peculiar” one), as well as with his those he loves. Info: (904) 641-1212 evening performed by some of the most married friends. On the night of his 35th or 1-800-688-7469 Tickets: $39-46, phenomenal talent the world has to offer. birthday, confi rmed bachelor Robert con- includes dinner and show. Location: It follows the great success of Broadway templates his unmarried state. In vignette Alhambra Dinner Theatre writer/director Marion J. Caffey’s interna- after hilarious vignette, we are introduced tional hit Three Mo’ Tenors. Caffey was to “those good and crazy people,” his November 15, 2007 at 7:30 pm & No- originally inspired by the mega hit, The married friends, as Robert weighs the vember 16 & 17, 2007 at 2:00 pm and Three Tenors in concert, and the subse- pros and cons of married life. Info: (904) 8:00 pm The Music Man Oh, we got quent success of his Three Mo’ Tenors trouble. Right here in River City! It’s the 641-1212 or 1-800-688-7469 Tickets: naturally makes way for a sister act - 3 River City’s own Jacksonville Symphony $39-46, includes dinner and show. Loca- Mo’ Divas. An excellent and spectacular Orchestra and Alhambra Dinner Theatre tion: Alhambra Dinner Theatre concert for the entire family, Divas is the story is in the telling coming together to bring you one of the guaranteed to have audiences standing most popular musicals ever. The Music fccj artist series and cheering for Mo’! Info: (904)632- Art is an elusive concept. When it comes to visual art, the art is complete when the artist hangs Man is a slice of Middle Americana, with 3373 or artistseries.fccj.org. Location: it on the wall. Whereas visual art can hang on a wall and be art with or without your participation, an unforgettable hit parade of tunes such October 12-14, 2007 Almost Times-Union Center, Moran Theater performance art is theoretical until it gets up in front of you. Anything could happen. The artist has as ‘Till There Was You,’ ‘Goodnight, My Heaven: Songs of John Denver It’s a Someone,’ ‘Marian The Librarian’ and December 15, 2007 at 4:00 pm & 8:00 to be able to compensate for any possible occurance. Two performances of the same show can be feel good musical tribute to a folk artist ‘Gary, Indiana.’ It’s a complete presenta- who touched the nation. From ‘Rocky pm The Heat is On starring Quinn Lem- totally different depending on a variety of changing circumstances. tion of the book and the music, with Mountain High’ to ‘Leaving on a Jet ley as Rita Hayworth The Heat is On! Because of the unpredictable nature of performing, performance art is in fact its entirely own the added benefi t of the Symphony’s Plane’ Almost Heaven entertains as it celebrates the life, loves and career of category, so EU decided not to lump it all together as “arts,” but to indeed give it its own due. And orchestrations and a focus on the music. enlightens us into the life of beloved Hollywood’s most electrifying redhead, there is plenty to do around town this fall and winter season. From the ultimate performance, the Tickets: $65 -$25 Info: (904) 354-5547, performer. With a high-voltage cast, Rita Hayworth. Following 35 sold-out or (877) 662-6731, or jaxsymphony.org. live musicians, a multi-media based set, shows in Athens Greece and 25 sold- Jacksonville Symphony and Orchestra, to one-man plays, it takes a special sort of artist to get up in Location: Robert E. Jacoby Symphony and thrilling vocal arrangements of your out shows in California and numerous front of an audience of live people and lay their soul bare. So make their effort worthwhile. Look over Hall at the Times-Union Center for the favorite songs; be sure not to miss this sell-outs from NYC to Florida, you can’t our listings of dance, classical music, jazz music, plays, musicals, family performances and a litany Performing Arts hit parade of American favorites. Info: miss The Heat Is On! Starring Quinn of other performances that are being brought live to a stage in our community this season and select (904)632-3373 or artistseries.fccj.org. Lemley in her critically acclaimed tour- December 28, 2007 – February 10, 2008 de-force performance with 5 on-stage some that appeal to you. Location: Wilson Center for the Arts, Breaking Up Is Hard to Do A new musi- MainStage costume changes, a swingin’ band and Jacksonville has plenty of culture, you just have to get out there and pursue it. In a world where cal with the hit songs of Neil Sedaka. Set the story that reveals an extraordinary life we are quick to share television shows and YouTube videos, it means a lot to those that dedicate their in Esther’s Paradise Resort in 1960, this November 6 – 11, 2007 The Wedding in concert. Unforgettable hit songs from lives to exemplary performances when you go out of your way to attend a live show and see how it madcap musical takes us back to the Singer Direct from Broadway! It’s 1985 Hayworth & her co-stars Sinatra, Astaire can affect you. EU covers performing arts every week, from live bands to community theatre, but in Catskills and an age of fun and escap- and you’re invited to The Wedding and Gene Kelly such as, ‘Bewitched,’ ism. Featuring Neil Sadaka’s favorites: Singer, where every night is a totally rad ‘Steppin Out,’ ‘Put the Blame on Mame,’ this single issue, you can fi nd almost anything going on stage from now until February. Something is ‘Breaking Up Is Hard To Do’, ‘Where reception for Robbie Hart and friends, ‘The Lady is a Tramp’ and many more. sure to be just your cup of tea. The Boys Are’, Happy Birthday Sweet until he’s left at the altar. Based on the A can’t-miss theatrical evening for every (photo: Quinn Lemley as Rita Hayworth in The Heat is On!) Sixteen, Stupid Cupid, Love Will Keep hit fi lm, the Tony Award nominated show fan of great standards, romance and

14 september 27-october 3, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper Hollywood spice. Info: (904)632-3373 geous new musical comedy lovingly in each other’s arms and in hearth and or artistseries.fccj.org. Location: Wilson ripped off from the fi lm classic “Monty home. Info: (904) 825-1164 Location: Center for the Arts, MainStage Python and the Holy Grail.” Directed by Limelight Mainstage, St. Augustine stage plays by greg leute Tony Award-winner Mike Nichols, with th December 21 – 23, 2007 The 25 An- a book by Eric Idle and music and lyrics orange park From Fernandina Beach down to Daytona Shores and over to Gainesville, theater companies nual Putnam County Spelling Bee Direct by the Grammy Award-winning team of throughout the region are gearing up for another ambitious season. The coming year promises a slate of from Broadway! In the Tony-Award Mr. Idle and John Du Prez, tells Spamalot community theatre productions as rich and diverse as their sources, from both grass-roots and touring national companies winning new musical comedy The 25th the tale of King Arthur and his Knights alike. From classic to contemporary works, musicals to straight theater (pardon the expression), crowd- Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, six of the Round Table as they embark on September 7-29, 2007 Cinderella - Mu- young people in the throes of puberty, their quest for the Holy Grail. Flying sic by Richard Rodgers. Lyrics by Oscar pleasers to cutting-edge and original works, there is plenty on the Jacksonville stage menu this year to overseen by grown-ups who barely man- cows, killer rabbits, taunting Frenchmen Hammerstein II. This delightful story of please even the pickiest palates. aged to escape childhood themselves, and show-stopping musical numbers true love fi nding its way in spite of lots of The area’s professional, community, and college stage companies lay claim to a long-standing learn that winning isn’t everything and are just a few of the reasons audiences roadblocks has been enjoyed by Broad- theater tradition, in particular boasting its status as the longest continuously operat- that losing doesn’t necessarily make everywhere are eating up Spamalot. Info: way audiences for 50 years. It is not ing community theater in America. What’s more—sweetening the pot—every few years the Jacksonville you a loser. This tuneful, offbeat and at (904)632-3373 or artistseries.fccj.org. just for the children; adults will enjoy the theater scene gets an infusion of new blood and ideas from both her transplants and her native sons and times heartwarming show offers audi- Location: Times-Union Center, Moran beautiful music, dancing and costumes daughters, their skills, education, and passions nourished both here and abroad. Management and pro- ence members the opportunity (strictly Theater as well. Info: Tickets: $15 for General duction values are refl ected in the mix, largely for the better. voluntary) to become part of the action Admission, $13 for Seniors, Students The region’s most prominent professional theaters—the Hippodrome State Theatre in Gainesville as on-stage spellers. Parental Guidance February 29, 2008 at 8:00 pm Movin’ and Military. Season ticket holders may Suggested. Info: (904)632-3373 or art- Out 5-time Grammy winner Billy Joel and make reservations as early as August and the Alhambra Dinner Theatre in Jacksonville’s Eastside—can typically be counted on for traditional istseries.fccj.org. Location: Times-Union legendary director/choreographer Twyla 20th, and General Audiences on August crowd-pleasing fare, and the relative abundance of resources assures shows of uniformly consistent Center, Moran Theater Tharp have joined forces to create the 27th. Info: (904) 276-2599 Location: quality and production values. spectacular new musical Time Magazine Orange Park Community Theatre Yet they by no means hold a monopoly on quality, either for performances or production values. January 10, 2008 at 7:30 pm Blast! The declares “The #1 show of the year!” Thanks to a growing audience base, the Jacksonville Cultural Council, generous private contributors, winner of the 2001 Tony Award for “Best Movin’ Out brings 24 Billy Joel classics theatre jacksonville and the largess of the Jacksonville Community Foundation and founder Tom Nehl, the area’s community Special Theatrical Event” and the 2001 to electrifying new life as it tells the story theaters are anteing up and kicking in, and most can be counted on for at least one or two bona fi de Emmy Award for “Best Choreography,” is of fi ve life-long friends over two turbulent February 9, 2008 Save the Happily Red kick-ass productions. You can count on fi nding a classic American playwright, a well-boiled chestnut, a comprised of 35 brass, percussion and decades. It all adds up to one unforget- date for the annual Cabaret Concert and visual performers brought together in a table Broadway musical. Info: (904)632- fundraiser for Theatre Jacksonville. As contemporary Broadway favorite, and an ethnically diverse production on nearly everybody’s schedule. unique explosion of music and theatre. 3373 or artistseries.fccj.org. Location: always, they’ll have a special guest. Info: Time was that there was a pecking order among Cowford’s community playhouses, too: Theatre Born on athletic fi elds across the nation, Times-Union Center, Moran Theater (904) 396-4425 or theatrejax.com. Loca- Jacksonville (TJ) garnering the lion’s share of talent and box offi ce attention, and Players by the Sea BLAST! is a novel art form evolved from tion: Theatre Jacksonville, San Marco (PBTS), Orange Park Community Theatre (OPCT), and the Atlantic Beach Experimental Theatre (ABET) the showmanship of outdoor pageantry. players by the sea being left with, well, what was left. But with greater inter-theater cooperation and artists crossing lines Info: (904)632-3373 or artistseries. thrasher horne to lend support around the city, traditional allegiances are no longer the growth-stunting factor they once fccj.org. Location: Times-Union Center, Cabaret Set in Berlin at the beginning were. The Age of Parity may be attainable in our lifetime. Moran Theater of the Third Reich, this two-time Tony November 30- December 2, 2007 Bobby Though they are not often mentioned among the city’s elite theater pantheon (whatever might Award winning story follows the romance that Horton: Songs from a Christmas Gath- be), both ABET and OPCT enjoy an abundance of local community support that is unequalled anywhere Feb. 6 - Mar 2, 2008 Menopause, the of an English cabaret performer and an ering - 1880 Continuing a THCA holiday in the city for loyalty and enthusiasm, and for embodying the ideal of what community theater should be. Musical Inspired by a hot fl ash and a American writer. Through the songs of tradition, Bobby Horton returns with bottle of wine, writer/producer Jeanie the Cabaret’s emcee, the audience wit- more of his holiday songs and stories For any given production, you can count on a large turnout and enthusiastic support, on either side of the Linders created the show as a celebra- nesses the political changes taking place from a Christmas past. In Songs from a footlights. Everybody involved is having a good time, and it’s infectious. They are also the fi rst to lend tion of women who are on the brink of, around them. Info: (904) 249-0289 or Christmas Gathering - 1880, musician, their support to any production anywhere in the city that needs it. in the middle of, or have survived The playersbythesea.org songwriter and performer Bobby Horton With the completion of their studio—or “black box”—theater, St. Augustine’s Limelight Theatre Change. Since its fi rst performance, the performs songs typical of an 1880s joins Jax Beach’s PBTS in being able to offer alternative fare in addition to their more traditional produc- show has evolved as a “grassroots” limelight American Christmas gathering. Selec- tions. Studio theaters often afford the chance to provide audiences with a parallel “second season,” one movement of women who deal with life tions range from familiar holiday musical that offers smaller, more intimate, or more controversial shows. It’s a great opportunity to respect their after 40 and all the challenges that result December 14, 2007 – January 12, 2008 tunes, to compositions by Stephen primary audience base while cultivating new audiences—and catering to patrons who are thirsty for in the mental, physical and spiritual The Fantasticks by Tom Jones, music Foster, to songs from the Civil War and freedom of the post WWII baby boomer by Harvey Schmidt. The World’s Longest cherished holiday carols. The evening edgier stuff. generation. Info: (904)632-3373 or art- Running Musical, AKA The Fantasticks ends with Horton inviting the audience What’s most intriguing is the respect being paid to the voices from diverse generations, lifestyles, istseries.fccj.org. Location: Times-Union will be at the Limelight. The original New to join in an old-fashioned singing of cultures, and politics—again, a trend largely for the better but one that bears watching and demands Center, Terry Theater York production ran from 1960 to 2002. Christmas carols. As a special holiday constant vigilance. It’s a very encouraging development, very grown-up and cosmopolitan. It gives me The story unfolds, radiating a timeless treat, audience members will be served hope that artists may yet take their rightful place in the national dialogue. Judging from the range of February 19 – 24, 2008 Monty Python’s sweet and sunniness: the starry-eyed complimentary holiday refreshments and works appearing on the horizon, both timeless and timely, it looks like we might be off to a good start. Spamalot Direct from Broadway! Winner boy and girl next door fall in love, yearn Southern sweets served by costumed As has been the case in the past, the city’s community theaters have done a very creditable job of the 2005 Tony Award for Best Musical, for the dangerous attractions of the world hosts and hostesses during intermission. of embracing the multifaceted elements of their mandate: sharing quality theater with the area’s audi- is the outra- outside, then opt instead for fulfi llment Info: (904) 276-6815 Monty Python’s Spamalot ences and providing community educational outreach while offering the chance for artists, patrons, and volunteers to get involved—supporting and sustaining the city’s cultural life. Opportunities abound for the christmas caroles! seasoned pros and neophytes alike to ply their craft. No less than Oscar Nominee Amy Adams (Junebug) and Jacksonville’s own Emmy winner Michael Emerson (The Practice, Lost) have proudly mentioned During the Christmas season, it’s not hard to fi nd one version or another of Dickens’ The Christmas Carole. honing their chops in community theaters. Not only that, but participation in support of these theaters Here are three productions, two if you’re staying in town and one if you have the urge to take a Christmas road provides terrifi c social and business networking opportunities that can’t be overstated. To their credit, trip to Gainesville. many prominent members of the city’s business and artistic communities have provided generous and enthusiastic support to Jacksonville theaters. Alhambra he survives a merciless battery of revelations by You just never know whom you might meet. November 30 - December 23, 2007 the ghosts of his own Christmases: Past, Present To be a true Jacksonvillian you have to see Alhambra and Future. In the Florida Theatre version, superb version of this old favorite. It has been around for than sets have been specially designed by the celebrated alhambra lives. Info: (904) 641-1212 or 1-800- Mount Morgan by Arthur Miller. equity dinner theater twenty years. This production, based on Charles Dick- scenic designer, Larry Kaushansky (formerly Lazar 688-7469 Tickets: $39-46, includes Many profound and humorous insights dinner and show. Location: Alhambra as to why relationships are essential, yet ens’ classic story, brings to life one of literatures most Michailovich Kaushansky), for many years Russia’s September 5 – October 7, 2007 Steel Dinner Theatre diffi cult to maintain, by one of America’s famous penny-pinchers, Ebenezer Scrooge. Whether reigning set and costume design genius. Info: (904) by Robert Harling. The set- Magnolias premiere playwrights. Info: (904) 249- you celebrate Christmas, or just like a good ghost 355-2787or fl oridatheatre.com Location: The Florida ting is Truvy’s beauty salon in a small 7177 Location: Atlantic Beach Experi- story, Christmas Carole is fun for the entire family. It’s Louisiana town. It is to this shop that the atlantic beach Theatre, Downtown mental Theatre a memorable, musical voyage to Victorian England ladies of the town come to have their experimental theatre hair done. Truvy, an outgoing and witty to fi nd out how a miserly skinfl int discovers the true Hippodrome community theater fl agler college meaning of Christmas in a most unusual way. Info: November 24-December 23 (adapted by Mary businesswoman, not only does hair, but also offers free advice to her customers. October 26 – November 10, 2007 (904) 641-1212 or 1-800-688-7469 Tickets: $39-46, Hausch). A October 19-28,2007 One Flew Over Truvy has just taken on a young, but ea- by Marcia includes dinner and show. Location: Alhambra Dinner Gainesville has traditions too and the Hippodrome’s Party to Murder Mystery the Cuckoo’s Nest An adaptation of ger, assistant named Annelle. The story Kash and Douglas E. Hughes. Perfect Dale Wasserman’s novel by Ken Kesey, Theatre 30th Annual Production of A Christmas Carole is revolves around Truvy and Annelle, and Halloween entertainment complete with Directed by Britt Corry Tickets: $10 one of them. Join Scrooge, the Cratchits and all the their customers. They bare their lives to secret passageways, hidden compart- Location: Flagler College Auditorium 14 The Florida Theatre usual ghosties. Dazzling special effects have made each other, helping one another with their ments, unexpected twists, and more! Granada Street, St. Augustine. December 21, 2007 at 7:30 pm this a popular holiday “thing” down in the land of the strength and love. These touching, funny, Info: (904) 249-7177 Location: Atlantic and marvelously amiable individuals You know the story--Ebenezer Scrooge, a most un- Gators. Info: (352) 375-HIPP or thehipp.org Loca- Beach Experimental Theatre November 8 – 17, 2007 Vanities (Rah- repentant, miserly fellow, is made to see the light as tion: The Hippodrome, Gainesville, FL share light moments, and pull together ner-Gibbs 2nd Stage production) by Jack when tragedy unexpectedly enters their January 4 – 19, 2008 The Ride Down  eujacksonville.com | september 27-october 3, 2007 15 Alhambra’s Steel Magnolias

Heifner. In the early 1960’s - Joanne, of empathy for all sides, the play is set in Play This adaptation of John Steinbeck’s Kathy and Mary are vivacious cheerlead- 1964 but could not be more timely. Info: masterpiece recreates the story of the ers. Five years later, in their college (352) 375-HIPP or thehipp.org Location: Joad family, driven from their Oklahoma sorority house, they confront their The Hippodrome, Gainesville, FL farm and forced to set out, with count- futures with nervous jauntiness. When less other unwilling migrants, to the they reunite briefl y in New York in 1974, November 23-December 23, 2007 A promised land of California. A portrait their lives have diverged and old-time Tuna Christmas by Jaston Williams, of one man’s fi erce reaction to injustice banter rings false. This snapshot-sharp Joe Sears and Ed Howard. Those wacky and power and of one woman’s stoical chronicle of the lives of three small town characters from Tuna, Texas have once strength, it captures the horrors of the Texas girls is both a bittersweet comedy again entered the heated Yuletide lawn Great Depression and probes into the and a remarkable testament to the way display contest. Socialite Vera Carp very nature of equality and justice in many of us grew up. Heifner’s play hopes to win another consecutive victory, America. Info: (904) 256-7374 Location: captures the spirit of a bygone era as but she faces stiff competition from the well as the eternal complexities of friend- crusty proprietor of Didi’s Used Weapons ship. Directed by Jean Rahner. Tickets: and from a pair of cowboy-loving Tastee limelight $5 Location: Flagler College Auditorium Creme waitresses. Don’t miss tour-de- 14 Granada Street, St. Augustine force performances for two actors in st. augustine community theater multiple roles! Info: (352) 375-HIPP or December 5- 7, 2007 Fall Senior thehipp.org Location: The Hippodrome, September 7 – 23, 2007 Criminal Conservatory One-Acts Tickets: $5 Gainesville, FL by Jane Martin. In total darkness, (available at the door) Location: Flagler Hearts a burglar breaks into Ata’s apartment. College Auditorium 14 Granada Street, January 11- February 3, 2008 The Dead She wakes and claims to have a gun. The St. Augustine Guy by Eric Coble. The Pitch: You get burglar turns on a light revealing a luxury one million dollars to spend over the next apartment totally denuded of furniture. st. augustine seven days. A camera crew follows your Ata has been cleaned out by her lawyer amphitheatre every move and broadcasts your adven- husband. In revenge for his philandering, tures on national television. The Hook: At she slept with his best friend and he took November 23 – January 6, 2007, 2008 the end of the week…you die. The Best all of the furniture in his rage. The burglar O. Henry’s Gift of the Magi, an original Part: The American public gets to vote (a female grifter) and Ata join forces to adaptation by Anna K. Meade presented on the method of your death! Info: (352) take the husband for everything. The at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre in 375-HIPP or thehipp.org Location: The grifter and her male partner have lost conjunction with the Winterwonderland Hippodrome, Gainesville, FL their “shimmy,” the woman who pretends Festival beginning Friday, November 23 to be the mark that is “victimized.” It is and running every Friday and Saturday at February 29-March 23, 2008 Suddenly clear that Ata would make an excellent 7 and 8 pm with matinees on Sundays at Last Summer by Tennessee Williams. replacement. She eventually agrees th 2 and 4 pm, through January 6 , 2008. This provocative play concerns a man’s and embarks on a life of crime. Fans of The St. Augustine Amphitheatre is locat- mysterious death, the secrets that could the author’s Talking With, Vital Signs, ed at 1340 A1A South, in St. Augustine. destroy his reputation, and the lengths Cementville and What Mama Don’t Know For more info call (904) 797-6744 to which his mother will go to protect will delight in the quirky humor of this his memory. Info: (352) 375-HIPP or cross between Thelma and Louise and thehipp.org Location: The Hippodrome, hippodrome state The Grifters. Adult Comedy. Info: (904) theatre Gainesville, FL 825-1164 Location: Limelight Studio Theatre, St. Augustine equity theater jacksonville September 7 - September 30, 2007 university October 5 – 28, 2007 Frankenstein by Doubt by John Patrick Shanley. Winner Mary Shelley, adapted by Tim Kelly. An of the Pulitzer Prize Chosen as the best October 11-21, 2007 Heartbreak House adapted classic fi lled with horror and play of the year by over 10 newspapers Play This comedy by George Bernard mystery, but mostly mystery. Get to and magazines, DOUBT is set in a Bronx Shaw takes place on the eve of WWI in know the characters of this tale in a dy- Catholic school, where a strong-minded the eccentric British household of Cap- namic stage setting. Mystery. Info: (904) woman wrestles with conscience and tain Shotover where, at a house party, 825-1164 Location: Limelight MainStage uncertainty as she is faced with con- the main topic of debate is one young Theatre, St. Augustine cerns about one of her male colleagues. woman’s decision to marry for money DOUBT dramatizes issues straight from rather than love. Info: (904) 256-7374 November 30 – December 8, 2007 San- today’s headlines within a world re-cre- Location: Jacksonville University taland Diaries by David Sedaris, adapted ated with knowing detail and a judicious by Joe Montello A slacker gets a job as a eye. Blunt yet subtle, manipulative but full February 14-24, 2008 Grapes of Wrath full time elf during the Christmas season

16 september 27-october 3, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper at Macy’s and tells us all about it. David elor is suddenly joined by his younger ting for the charming romantic comedy Sedaris’ autobiographical memoir has brother, his father, and various others as Moon over the Brewery. Miriam tries become a new holiday classic, and for he tries to continue his independent, very hard to make ends meet as a single very good reason. Irreverent Comedy. single lifestyle. Doors open 30 minutes parent of the precocious (read: high IQ Info: (904) 825-1164 Location: Limelight prior to curtain for general audiences, and smarter than her mom) 13-year old Studio Theatre, St. Augustine and one hour prior to curtain for Season Amanda. Miriam works as a waitress, Ticket and Pass holders. Directed by paints moonscapes and attempts to date February 8 – March 9, 2008 A Raisin in Susan Carcaba. Info: (904) 276-2599 – she’s looking for a true companion, the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry. The fi rst Location: Orange Park Community and she wants to introduce a male infl u- play by a black woman to be produced Theatre ence into her daughter’s life. Things get on Broadway in the 1950s. The play is complicated when Miriam falls for the a “living-room” drama, set in southside players by the sea town postman, Warren. Enter Amanda’s Chicago. Walter Lee, a black chauffeur, community theater imaginary friend Randolph. Theatre dreams of a better life. “I want so many Jacksonville Rating of PG Info: (904) things that they are driving me kind of It’s A Wonderful Life Funny, moving and 396-4425 or theatrejax.com. Tickets: crazy...” he says. He hopes to use his memorable! Thomas M. Sharkey did a $15-25. Location: Theatre Jacksonville, father’s life insurance money, $10,000 to wonderful thing when he took one of San Marco open a liquor store. Beneatha, his sister, America’s favorite holiday fi lm classics January 11 – 26, 2008 wants to go to medical school. Their and wrote this touching and heartfelt Dearly Departed by David Bottrell. and Jessie Jones. Meet mother, Lena Younger, rejects the liquor play. Capra would be proud! Info: (904) the Bible Belt kin of Bud Turpin. They’ve business. She wants to save money for 249-0289 or playersbythesea.org got a funeral to plan, and (between the Beneatha’s college education and to feuds, marital fl ings, and Macaroni and secure a proper house for the family. The February 1-16, 2008 By graft- Julius X Ham Loaf Surprise) it may escalate into a rest of the money she gives to Walter, ing the plot and some of the text of multiple-coffi n memorial service. By the entrusting him to deposit half of it in the Julius Caesar together with the story of time the Turpins sort through the hang- bank for Beneatha’s education. Walter Malcolm X’s murder, playwright Al Let- overs, money problems, and headstone sinks it into his business scheme, only to son Jr. offers a classic demonstration of engraving options, they’ve learned that have it stolen by a con artist. Mr. Lindner, Shakespeare’s infi nite adaptability. The coping with life’s losses can turn out to a representative of the all-white neighbor- Play explores how allies can become as- be drop-dead funny. Theatre Jacksonville hood, tries to buy them out. Info: (904) sassins and how the struggle for power Rating of PG-13 Info: (904) 396-4425 or 825-1164 Location: Limelight MainStage can turn toxic. theatrejax.com. Tickets: $15-25. Loca- Theatre, St. Augustine tion: Theatre Jacksonville, San Marco theatre jacksonville orange park community theater February 29 – March 15, 2008 The Ruby Sunrise by Rinne Groff. Hailed by community theatre September 14 – October 6, 2007 A The Boston Globe as “a gem,” The Ruby by William October 26- November 17, 2007 Whose Midsummer Night’s Dream Sunrise begins when a 1920’s tomboy Shakespeare. A rejected marriage ar- Wives Are They Anyway by Michael feverishly works to develop her latest Parker. When the new CEO of a Cosmet- rangement, a custody battle, two unre- invention – a little something called ics fi rm declares that all men who work quited loves, a crew of hopeful part-time “television.” Twenty-fi ve years later, her at her fi rm must spend their free time actors and a devious fairy set the stage daughter will stop at nothing to bring her with their wives, two executives who for Shakespeare’s magical comedy. mother’s incredible story to life during have slipped away for a golf weekend Weaving three stories of love, magic TV’s Golden Age. But will it get the truth and perception in a moonlit forest on a make up wives and other lies. Co-di- it deserves? The Ruby Sunrise turns rected by Rhodie Jackson and Karla midsummer night, the Bard’s fantastical out to be more than a history lesson; Hinton. Doors open 30 minutes prior to play remains an audience favorite across it becomes a brilliant commentary of curtain for General Audiences, and one generations. Theatre Jacksonville Rating the affects of 1950’s McCarthyism and hour prior to curtain for Season Ticket of G. Info: (904) 396-4425 or theatrejax. the narrow-mindedness of television com. Tickets: $15-25. Location: Theatre and Pass holders. Info: (904) 276-2599 networks. Theatre Jacksonville Rating of Location: Orange Park Community Jacksonville, San Marco R (Language not suitable for children) Theatre Info: (904) 396-4425 or theatrejax.com. November 2 – 17, 2007 Moon over the Tickets: $15-25. Location: Theatre Jack- January 11- February 2, 2008 Come Brewery by Bruce Graham. A faded sonville, San Marco. Blow Your Horn by Neil Simon. A bach- Pennsylvania mining town is the set- 

Theatre Jacksonville’s Midsummer Night’s Dream

eujacksonville.com | september 27-october 3, 2007 17 Sleeping Beauty on Ice

dance by hilary johnson Attending a dance performance provides the audience with much more than just the visual enjoy- ment of watching dancers contort their bodies across a stage in interesting costumes. A dance perfor- mance exceeds the choreography that draws the eye and takes the audience down an intellectual journey through physical movement. Perhaps that journey embarks on an historic tale of a people or a country. Or maybe it captures the imagination and opens the mind’s creative fl oodgates. A dance performance is much like an unspoken play that involves a theme, drama and emotion, using the human form as a means of expression instead of verbal language. “Many ballet performances, such as the Nutcracker or Swan Lake, tell one story through the whole evening,” says Cari Coble, choreographer for the dance performance “Typewriter” and an assistant pro- fessor of dance for Jacksonville University. “But still the story is told in shorter dance pieces that all tie together.” This manifestation of emotion and expression can come in many forms. Ballet is always at the fore- front of thought when considering a dance performance, but one can also expect to fi nd anything ranging from ice dance to modern to gymnastics to the traditional dances of an indigenous people. There truly is something for everyone. “The best thing about dance is that there always seems to be something that appeals to everyone in the performance,” says Coble. “Even if you come to a section that you don’t really like, it will pass quickly and soon you will see something that you really love.” Moving beyond the performances are competitions, where viewers come to watch the best in show waltz across the fl oor in the quest for glory. A dance competition transcends the nature of a unifi ed show and provides an added sense of excitement and mystery, as well as an eclectic showcase of personal styles and abilities. The World Event Ballroom and Latin Dance Competition: 17th Annual First Coast Classic Dances- port Competition provides just that as some of the worlds top dancers compete for the World Masters Title of Ballroom dancing. The three-day affair lasts from morning until night, offering plenty to see and participate in. Saturday, October 6th, at 8:30 in the evening will be the Grand Finale competition, followed by the awards ceremony, a defi nite chance to catch the best of the best in action. This fall season, Jacksonville is offering an array of performances for audiences to enjoy. Either for a special night out on the town, or for a mid-day treat for the eyes and mind, a dance performance pro- vides an enjoyable excursion for all ages.

Robin Hood. Dance Alive National Ballet Productions have once again reinvented dance alive journeys back in time with the world pre- the circus with European fl air, imaginative gainesville mier of Robin Hood. Take a romp through theatrics and world-class acrobatics. Sherwood Forest with Robin Hood and Cirque Dreams Jungle Fantasy is an December 15, 2007 at 2 pm & 7:30 his merry men as he outwits the evil all-new adventure that takes audiences pm & December 16, 2007 at 2 Sheriff of Nottingham and wins the hand soaring into a magical forest through the air and on stage. An international cast of pm Nutcracker. It wouldn’t be the holiday of the fair Maid Marion. World Premier season without the Nutcracker! Dance Info: (352)371-2986 or dancealive.org graceful aerialists, spine bending contor- Alive National Ballet presents a “simply Location: Phillips Center, Gainesville, FL tionists, vine swinging characters, strong magical performance” with swirling men and balancers bring this jungle snowfl akes, tiny toy soldiers, and the dream to life in a lush, Broadway setting beautiful Sugar Plum Fairy. Truly, “the fccj artist series fi lled with wildly unpredictable designs, special effects, inventive choreography, all-time family favorite.” Info: (352)371- 2986 or dancealive.org Location: Phillips January 15 – 20, 2008 Cirque Dreams puppeteering and dazzling costumes. Center, Gainesville, FL Jungle Fantasy The National Tour In the Cirque Dreams Jungle Fantasy is an ongoing tradition of spectacular touring exhilarating journey the entire family can February 23, 2008 at 2 pm and 7:30 pm productions, Neil Goldberg and Cirque experience together. Info: (904) 632-

18 september 27-october 3, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper Competition. Experience the glamour fl orida ballet 2006-2007 season and excitement of a real live dance competition where you will see some Three exciting programs of dance from the elegance and romance of of the nation’s top professional and classic ballet to the innovation and drama of contemporary dance. amateur couples perform in their dazzling costumes, at the beautiful Renaissance November 4th - Snow White Resort WGV. The competition excite- December 15th & December 16th - The Nutcracker ment heats up Thursday morning and March 24th - Spectrum Concert continues all day and night through the Info: e-mail info@fl oridaballet.org or call the Ballet offi ce at 353- weekend. Friday and Saturday evenings 7518 Location: All performances of the Florida Ballet are held at The feature the pros performing electrifying dances such as the Cha-Cha, Salsa, Florida Theatre. Tango, Waltz and Jive, as they compete for the World Masters Title. Info: (904) 338-9219 or fi rstcoastclassic.com. 3373 or artistseries.fccj.org. Location: Georgian State Dance Company has Tickets: Spectator tickets are available Times-Union Center, Moran Center performed to over 50 million people in 87 for day and evening sessions starting at countries. In 1990, the performances of $20. Dinner tickets begin at $75. Loca- October 16 at 7:30 pm Kevin Locke Na- the Georgian State Dance Company was tion: Renaissance , St. tive Dance Ensemble The Drum is the announced as the “Best Show of the Year Augustine Thunder, The Flute is the Wind There on Broadway.” Tickets: $37.50-$27.50 is no other show like it. Representing Info: (904) 355-2787or fl oridatheatre. unf dance the Plains nations of Lakota, Anishinabe com Location: The Florida Theatre, and Comanche, the Southeastern tribe Downtown November 8, 2007 at 7:30 pm Ballet Choctaw, and the Woodlands Nations of Folklorico de Mexico Mexico City’s February 08, 2008 at 7:30 pm Jennifer Ojibwa and Oneida, this one-of-a-kind premiere folkloric ballet ensemble heats Muller/The Works Founded in 1974 ensemble of American Indian champions up the stage as they bring the past back by Artistic Director Jennifer Muller, The and award winners offers a rich variety to life before your eyes! Mexico’s diverse Works has achieved a dynamic global of American Indian traditions and aes- cultures inspire this celebration of rhythm presence. The company has toured 37 thetics in dance, instrumentals, song, and the stories surrounding the everyday countries on 4 continents and 30 states storytelling, sign language and audience people for whom dancing is a part of life. in the USA and self-produced 20 NYC interaction. Info: (904) 632-3373 or Founded by Amalia Hernandez, a dancer Seasons at the Joyce, City Center, New artistseries.fccj.org. Location: Wilson and choreographer that embarked on a Victory and Roundabout Theaters and Center for the Arts quest to uphold the dancing traditions of the Kaye Playhouse. Tickets: $27.50-$20 her native country, it is now run by her Info: (904) 355-2787or fl oridatheatre. January 8, 2008 at 7:30 pm New daughter Norma Lopez Hernandez. Info: com Location: The Florida Theatre, Shanghai Circus Featuring the incredible (904) 620-2878 or balletamalia.com. Downtown acrobats of China. This talented troupe Tickets: $38-$30, Students $10. Loca- defi es gravity and executes breathtak- February 19, 2008 at 7:30 pm Flamenco tion: UNF Fine Arts Center ing feats that stretch the human ability. Vivo Carlota Santana Based in New York Many of these acts trace their origin back City, Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana, December 13, 2007 at 7:30 pm over two thousand years to traditional The was founded in 1983 as the Spanish Join us as we Chinese harvest festivals. If it’s humanly Sleeping Beauty on Ice Dance Arts Company by Roberto Lorca transform the Lazzara theater stage into possible, and even if it’s not, Shanghai’s and Carlota Santana with the mission of an icy paradise complete with champion performers do it with spectacular fl are, breaking boundaries between cultures skaters from Russia’s St. Petersburg Ice combining traditional, Chinese culture using the universal spirit of fl amenco. Ballet! Magnifi cent costumes, fantastic with modern day choreography, amaz- Tickets: $37.50-$27.50 Info: (904) 355- choreography and music by Tchaikovsky ing lighting, enchanting scenery and 2787or fl oridatheatre.com Location: The combine art and storybook entertain- powerful music. Info: (904) 632-3373 Florida Theatre, Downtown ment with the tradition of world ballet in or artistseries.fccj.org. Location: Wilson “Sleeping Beauty.” Under the direction Center for the Arts jacksonville of former principal dancer and chore- ographer of the Kirov ballet, Konstantin February 9, 2008 at 7:30 pm Alvin Ailey symphony orchestra Rassadin, dubbed one of the “big three” American Dance Theater Exclusive in ballet along with Nureyev and Barysh- Florida Engagement! The earth-shaking November 29, 2007 at 7:30 pm & No- nikov, this performance blends many art superstar of American contemporary vember 30-December 1, 2007 at 8:00 forms to create a magical rendition of dance returns to Jacksonville to celebrate pm “Exotic Dances” Fidelity National this classic tale that will be cherished by its 50th anniversary. The Alvin Ailey Financial Masterworks Series Spend an all ages. Info: (904) 620-2878 Tickets: American Dance Theater continues evening that evokes places, sensations $38-$28, Students $10 Location: UNF to dazzle audiences with captivating and sentiments of a faraway land. A lav- Fine Arts Center performances and unparalleled artistry, ish dream garden of shimmering colors, fulfi lling Ailey’s vision that “dance is for a whirlwind of sultry and animated everybody.” An unforgettable event, don’t Spanish dances, and merry Bohemian February 2, 2008 at 7:30 pm AEROS miss the performance that has forever tunes will transport you to sun-soaked “The Illusion of Flight” The explosive changed the perception of American landscapes and village fairs. ‘Words on fusion of gymnastics and modern dance dance. Info: (904) 632-3373 or artist- Music’ an hour before all performances. come together in a visceral collection series.fccj.org. Location: Florida Theatre Tickets: $25-$65. Info: (904) 354-5547, of exciting choreography that is innova- or (877) 662-6731, or online at jaxsym- tive, creative and powerful. This high February 26, 2008 at 7:30 pm phony.org. Location: Robert E. Jacoby fl ying production is the union of famed Symphony Hall at the Times-Union Cen- Pilobolus Surrender to the magic of choreographers David Parsons (Parsons Pilobolus, the world’s most innovative ter for the Performing Arts Dance), Moses Pendleton (Pilobolus) and modern dance ensemble. Based on a Daniel Ezralow (MOMIX), This breathtak- combination of physical strength and jacksonville ing theatrical experience is comprised of beauty, its artistry and signature moves university Olympic Romanian gymnasts perform- involve entangled bodies that resemble ing acrobatic showpieces, daring and a sort of living sculpture — one that November 26-29, 2007 In the Works elegant duets and humorous group skits moves constantly, defying gravity and Showcasing dance works from JU faculty that showcase the vivid imagination of entertaining audiences with both humor and students these performances are a the creators. High-fl ying daredevil skills and the magnifi cence of human form. perfect lunchtime opportunity to view performed with impeccable timing in Info: (904) 632-3373 or artistseries. new and exciting choreography. Ticket: stunning costumes by these dynamic fccj.org. Location: Times-Union Center, Free to the public. Location: Jacksonville athletes produce a colorful performance Moran Theater University, Swisher Theater that is the best family entertainment coming to North Florida this year! Info: the fl orida theatre world golf village (904) 620-2878 or AEROS.ORG Tickets: $42-$34, Students $10 Location: UNF November 28, 2007 at 7:30 pm Geor- October 4-6, 2007 World Event Ball- Fine Arts Center gian State Dance Company From the room and Latin Dance Competition: 17th former Soviet Republic of Georgia, the Annual First Coast Classic Dancesport 

eujacksonville.com | september 27-october 3, 2007 19 20 september 27-october 3, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper advanced piano studies. Info: (904) 276- orchestras and recitalist on the world’s emotional distance, to spontaneous Fabio Mechetti with the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra 6750 Tickets: $12 Location: Thrasher- most revered stages. Pianist Adam Nei- applause. Such a rich, mature violin Horne Studio Theater, Orange Park man appeared in the prestigious Great performance by a fi nalist had seldom Performers Series at Lincoln Center dur- been heard there before. Reservations October 24, 2007 Dinner at 5 pm, ing the 2006-2007 season. Violinist Gary suggested. Tickets: Members Free, Concert at 6:30 p.m. Jacksonville Sym- Levinson, praised worldwide by critics Non-Members $8. Info: (904) 356-6857 phony Orchestra “Barbeque of Seville” for his intense musicality and formidable x-6265. Location: The Cummer Museum Gather with friends for a cookout on the technique, has performed and collaborat- of Art & Gardens river promenade of the Times-Union ed with such luminaries as Zubin Mehta Center and enjoy food and drinks. Then, and Yo-Yo Ma. This free show is funded November 16, 2007 at 8 pm Eroica Trio enter Jacoby Hall for a concert by the in part by Wells Fargo Home Mortgage. The most sought-after trio in the world, Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, led by Location: St. Paul’s by the Sea Episcopal the Eroica Trio thrills audiences with Morihiko Nakahara, making his debut as Church, Jacksonville Beach fl awless technical virtuosity, irresist- the JSO’s new associate conductor. Info: ible enthusiasm and sensual elegance. (904) 354-5547 or jaxsymphony.org. November 8, 2007 at 7:30 pm November Whether playing the great standards Tickets: $20 in advance. $25 the day of 9 & 10, 2007 at 8 pm Jacksonville Sym- of the piano trio repertoire or daring concert. Location: Times-Union Center phony Orchestra “Beethoven’s Ninth” contemporary works, the three young for the Performing Arts. Fidelity National Financial Masterworks women who make up this celebrated Series Needing to come up with a ensemble electrify the concert stage with October 26, 2007 at 7:30 pm Music of celebration cantata in a hurry, Dvorak their performances of depth and preci- Our Time: Featuring Jennifer Carsillo, fi nds instant inspiration in a festive Latin sion. Info: (904) 389 6222 or riverside- Violin and Isabelle Perrin, Harp Former hymn. The ninth’s grand vocal eruption fi nearts.org Tickets: $25 Open Seating, Jacksonville Symphony member Jen- makes Beethoven the revolutionary for $10 Students. Location: Church of the nifer Carsillo returns to Jacksonville which he is known. The fi rst signifi cant Good Shepherd for an evening of dynamic violin music composer to use the human voice like an accompanied by Isabelle Perrin. She has instrument in the famous “Ode to Joy” November 18, 2007 at 5 pm Jack- appeared as a soloist with orchestras in movement, Beethoven single-handedly sonville Symphony Youth Orchestra California, Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, expands the classical horizons. Info: Fall Concert Info: (904) 354-5547 Ohio, Texas, Virginia, Austria, Jamaica, (904) 354-5547 or jaxsymphony.org. or jaxsymphony.org. Tickets: General and Russia, and will debut this season Tickets: (Masterworks Premium) $35- Admission- Adult: $12, Student: $7. classical by jon bosworth with Ansieme per Musica in Castelleone, $75. Location: Robert E. Jacoby Sym- Location: Robert E. Jacoby Symphony Italy, The Coastal Symphony of Georgia phony Hall at the Times-Union Center for Hall at the Times-Union Center for the For those of you that thought we didn’t have any culture in Jacksonville, check out this listing. We on Sea Island and the Shreveport Sym- the Performing Arts Performing Arts have scoured the town to fi nd every classical performance that will be gracing a stage this fall and winter phony Orchestra. Info: (904) 620-2878 or jennifercarsillo.com and isabelleperrin. November 9, 10, 16 & 17, 2007. November 30 at 7:30 pm season. There was no way to fi t them all, but we have picked out a pretty good selection. It would be nearly Caba- Maxim com Location: Recital Hall, University of ret Parisien, a Night in Paris Music, Anikushin A native of Moscow, Maxim impossible to go to every one, but with this kind of a selection, there is certainly something for your taste. North Florida Food & Fun Info: First Coast Opera Anikushin began his piano studies at fi ve (904) 417-5555 Location: Bishop Baker and by eleven had entered the Moscow September 27, 2007 at 7:30 pm & University, and the University of North repertoire that often lies far afi eld of the November 4 at 3:30 pm Trio Virtuosi The Parish Center, St. Augustine Conservatory. He later studied at the San September 28 & 29, 2007 at 8:00 pm Florida, join voices and sing. traditional Russian norm. Reservations marvelous Trio Virtuosi is unique in that Francisco Conservatory and holds Bach- “From the New World” Fidelity National Location: Lazzara Performance Hall, suggested. Tickets: Members Free, Non- all three members are established, inter- November 11, 2007 at 3 pm Baiba elor and Masters Degrees from Juilliard. Financial Masterworks Series Dvorak University of North Florida Members $8. nationally known soloists. Flutist Eugenia Skride, Violin Baiba Skride inspired the Free. Location: St. Paul’s by the Sea hits land and paints a musical picture of Info: (904) 356-6857 x-6265. Location: Zukerman, from CBS’ Sunday Morning, jury of this highly coveted violin contest, Episcopal Church, Jacksonville Beach how he saw the new world then, through October 12, 2007 at 8 pm Jacksonville The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens has appeared as soloist with major which is actually obligated to keep its the eyes of his old-world roots. Mean- Symphony Orchestra “Rossini & Co.”  while, back in the old world, Smetana Jacksonville Greyhound Racing Discov- October 18, 2007 at 7:30 pm, October creates the liveliest comic atmosphere ery Series When you’re with Rossini, 19 & 20 at 8 pm Jacksonville Symphony imaginable and Grieg defi nes the Nor- you’re in good company. His comedic wit Orchestra “Beloved Brahms” Fidelity wegian soul with melodic sentiment and is pure genius and his musical soirees National Financial Masterworks Series nostalgia. Fabio Mechetti, conducts and were the talk of the town. Enjoy a night of Weber opens fi re with magic bullets and Ian Parker will be on piano. rousing overtures to his popular operas then… Bull’s-eye! Mendelssohn takes Info: (904) 354-5547 or jaxsymphony. as well as Respighi’s and Britten’s ar- his fi rst shot at a piano concerto and org Ticket Prices: from $65-25 Location: rangements of his musical scenarios. hits the mark of brilliance. Brahms’ de- Robert E. Jacoby Symphony Hall at the Info: (904) 354-5547 or jaxsymphony. fi nitive Third Symphony showcases the Times-Union Center for the Performing org. Ticket Prices: $18-45.Location: master’s musical prowess infused with Arts Robert E. Jacoby Symphony Hall at the deep romantic sincerity and memories of Times-Union Center for the Performing time’s passing September 30, 2007 at 6 pm “BRASS Arts Info: (904) 354-5547 or jaxsymphony. Bonanza” This special members-only org. Tickets: $25-$65. Location: Robert event for BRASS (Beaches Residents October 13, 2007 at 8 pm Jacksonville E. Jacoby Symphony Hall at the Times- Actively Supporting the Symphony) Symphony Orchestra “The Magical Mu- Union Center for the Performing Arts kicks off the new season. Musical guests sic of Walt Disney” The wonderful mu- include JSO Maestro Fabio Mechetti and sic of your favorite Disney fi lms like The October 21st 3:00 p.m. An Upbeat his wife Aida Ribeiro performing four- Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast and Pink - On the Run - A Musical Tribute hand piano excerpts to preview the 2007- The Lion King will come to life with your to Breast Cancer Survivorship This 2008 JSO season. For information on Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra. Info: concert is in support of the National becoming a BRASS member, call (904) (904) 354-5547 or jaxsymphony.org. Marathon to Fight Breast Cancer. It fea- 285-1139 Ticket Price: $45 per person Ticket Prices $17, $20, $24, $32, $42 tures the UNF Wind Ensemble, conducted .Location: TPC Sawgrass Clubhouse Location: Robert E. Jacoby Symphony by Dr. Gordon Brock. Info: (904) 620- Hall at the Times-Union Center for the 2878 or donnahickenfoundation.org and October 5 & 6 2007 at 8 pm “Irish En- Performing Arts breastcancermarathon.com. Location: chantment” Blue Cross and Blue Shield Lazzara Performance Hall, University of of Florida Pops Series Cherish this October 14 at 3:30 pm Gary Burton North Florida spectacular blend of virtuosic instrumen- & Makoto Ozone Five-time Grammy tal talents, beautiful vocals, captivating winning vibraphonist Gary Burton and October 21, 2007 at 3:00 pm Misha arrangements and stunning Celtic step pianist Makoto Ozone have been musical Dacic Classical Pianist Classical pianist dancing. Add just the right amount of collaborators for more than a decade Misha Dacic is a rising star, wowing Irish wit and humor for one energetic and and a half, concentrating on the virtuoso audiences at his American debut at the joyful concert. Info: (904) 354-5547 duet. This free show is funded in part by 2003 Discovery Series of the Sixth Miami or jaxsymphony.org. Ticket Prices: $25, Montoya Brower & Associates International Piano Festival. Born in 1978 $30, $40, $55, $65 Location: Robert Location: St. Paul’s by the Sea Episcopal into a musical family in the former Yugo- E. Jacoby Symphony Hall at the Times- Church, Jacksonville Beach slavia, Mr. Dacic fi rst came to the public Union Center for the Performing Arts attention at age 11 when he performed October 14, 2007 at 3 pm Vassily Pri- a Haydn Piano Concerto with a local October 5, 2007at 7:30 pm Intercol- makov, Piano The young Moscow-born orchestra. Mr. Dacic is a recipient of sup- legiate Choral Exchange Concert The pianist Vassily Primakov has enriched port from Patrons of Exceptional Artists choral ensembles from Florida Commu- the current concert scene with blazing and enjoys a special scholarship at the nity College of Jacksonville, Jacksonville and deeply personal playing, excelling in University of Miami, where he pursues

eujacksonville.com | september 27-october 3, 2007 21 and Israeli-born Udi Bar-David, cellist marquardt.com Location: Recital Hall, of America’s foremost musical ensem- Jan Moran Theater at the Times-Union jacksonville symphony orchestra mayo for the Philadelphia Orchestra, explore University of North Florida bles. Their program, American Musical Center for the Performing Arts. their intercultural journey to create music Journey, incorporates a full complement clinic coffee series February 22 at 7:30 pm John Scott January 31, 2008 at 7:30 pm February of brass and percussion for a musical together. Their recent recording, Voyag- Called “The premier English organist of All of the Mayo Clinic Coffee Series shows are shorter versions of JSO full 1 & 2, 2008 at 8 pm travelogue through American history. ers, is a result of this collaboration. Free. Jacksonville Sym- his generation...in a class of his own” From the time of George Washington to concerts held around the same date, at the same venue. For a small, Friday Location: St. Paul’s by the Sea Episcopal phony Orchestra “Appalachian Spring” ( , England), the present day, music will be performed Manchester Evening News morning dose of culture, this series can’t be beat. For tickets and information, Church, Jacksonville Beach Fidelity National Financial Masterworks John Scott was the Organist and Director Copland’s masterpiece captures from the masters: Copland, Bernstein, call the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra box offi ce at (904) 354-5547, toll Series of Music at St. Paul’s Cathedral, London the essence of an ideal America, one of Gershwin, Berlin, John Williams, Sousa; free (877) 662-6731, or online at jaxsymphony.org. See the descriptions of January 10, 2008 at 7:30 pm January until 2004, when he came to NYC to take open fi elds and endless possibilities. But from bands like the Tijuana Brass and the full concerts for more info. Pre-concert coffee is always available an hour 11 & 12, 2008 at 8 pm Jacksonville that position at St. Thomas Church. This when he began his Pulitzer-winning ballet Chicago; and styles from Dixieland beforehand. General admission is $25. Symphony Orchestra “Sweet Firebird” free show is funded in part by American score, he couldn’t have foreseen that it to hip-hop! Info: (904) 389 6222 or Fidelity National Financial Masterworks Guild of Organists, Jacksonville Chapter would become one of the most inspir- riversidefi nearts.org Tickets: $25 Open September 28, 2007 at 11:00 am “From the New World” Series The heroic phoenix rising from Location: St. John’s Episcopal Cathedral ing and symbolic works of the century. Seating, $10 Students. Location: Church October 12, 2007 at 11:00 am “Rossini & Co.” the ashes, paired with a glittering night- – Market and Duval Streets, Jacksonville ingale follows the ultimate enchantment Info: (904) 354-5547 or jaxsymphony. of the Good Shepherd December 14, 2007 at 11:00 am “Home for the Holidays” of virtuosic girl power in the Brahms org. Tickets: $25-$65. Location: Robert February 24, 2008 at 3pm Wind En- January 18, 2008 at 11:00 am “Judy Garland and the Golden Era” Double Concerto. Info: (904) 354-5547 E. Jacoby Symphony Hall at the Times- February 10, 2008 at 3 pm Riverside semble Guest Artist Series Concert January 25, 2008 at 11:00 am “Mozart Unlimited” Union Center for the Performing Arts or jaxsymphony.org. Tickets: $25-$65. Fine Arts Pipe Organ Concert Series A special February 8, 2008 at 11:00 am “Love, Romance and the Big Band” Dr. Gordon Brock, Conductor Location: Robert E. Jacoby Symphony Ken Cowan, Organ Ken Cowan is one collaborative concert with UNF’s Wind February 3, 2008 at 3 pm Hall at the Times-Union Center for the ENSO String of the most sought-after organists in Ensemble. Event features members of The December 7-9 2007 at 8 pm Amahl and Location: Robert E. Jacoby Symphony Performing Arts. Quartet and Joel Fan, Piano North America. The Riverside Fine Arts the Ritz Chamber Players in a tribute to ensemble’s name, enso, is derived from the Night Visitors UNF Opera Ensemble Hall at the Times-Union Center for the Association Pipe Organ Concert Series Black History Month. Info: (904) 620- the Japanese zen painting of the circle presents Amahl and the Night Visitors by Performing Arts January 17, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. Music of is presented in partnership with the 2878 Location: Recital Hall, University of which represents many things; perfection Gian-Carlo Menotti. Info: (904) 620-2878 Our Time: David Skidmore Percussion Jacksonville Symphony, with support North Florida Tickets: $12 Location: Recital Hall, Uni- December 16, 2007 at 3 pm Jack- Quartet David is a founding member of and imperfection, the moment of chaos from the American Guild of Organists. that is creation, the emptiness of the versity of North Florida sonville Symphony Youth Orchestra the Third Coast Percussion Quartet, the Info: (904) 354-5547 or (904) 389- February 28, 2008 at 7:30 pm, February Lucerne Festival Percussion Group, and void, the endless circle of life, and the 6222, online: riversidefi nearts.org. Ticket “Sounds of the Season” Target Fam- 29 & March 1, 2008 at 8 pm Jackson- December 7 & 8 2007 at 8:00 pm This annual concert by the the Collide Trio, and has premiered over fullness of the spirit. Joel Fan joins them price: $15 – general admission Location: ily Series ville Symphony Orchestra “American in December 8 & 9, 2007 at 2:00 pm Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestra a dozen new works with these groups in for an unforgettable evening. Reserva- Robert E. Jacoby Symphony Hall at the Paris” Fidelity National Financial Mas- Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra Philharmonic has become a holiday the past two years alone. He was also tions suggested. Tickets: Members Free, Times-Union Center for the Performing terworks Series A musical stroll down “First Coast Nutcracker” The First Coast Non-Members $8.Info: (904) 356-6857 favorite for young audiences. The JSYO recently appointed solo percussionist Arts the streets of Paris takes the listener Nutcracker will enchant the whole family, is made up of our area’s premier young with the Pittsburgh New Music Ensemble. x-6265. Location: The Cummer Museum showcasing internationally renowned through bustling streets with sounds of musicians, performing inspiring and Info: (904) 620-2878 or davidskidmore- of Art & Gardens February 12, 2008 at 7:30 pm Original principal dancers, our area’s fi nest young motor horns and bright lights and the delightful concerts, engaging the com- percussion.com Location: Recital Hall, Compositions for Clarinet and Piano dance corps, and Tchaikovsky’s best- jazzy excitement of Parisian night clubs. munity and spreading holiday cheer, too! University of North Florida February 8 & 9, 2008 at 8pm Jack- Guy Yehuda, Clarinet and Dr. Gary loved melodies. Info: (904) 354-5547 Close your eyes and see the Eiffel Tower Thanks to the generous partnership with sonville Symphony Orchestra “Love, Smart, Piano. This unique program and the Paris scene, then adventure to or jaxsymphony.org. Tickets: $18-$43 TARGET, all general admission tickets January 18, and Saturday, January Romance and the Big Band” Blue presents two UNF composer-performers Location: Jim and Jan Moran Theater at Africa and capture a tour of Italy told are $7.Info: (904) 354-5547 or jaxsym- 19, 2008 at 8 pm Jacksonville Sym- Cross and Blue Shield of Florida Pops playing their own music. The program by Berlioz in the world-wind journey. the Times-Union Center for the Perform- Sing phony.org. Tickets: General Admission: phony Orchestra “Judy Garland and the Series Mayo Clinic Coffee Series includes several pieces by Dr. Yehuda, Dr. Concerts sponsored by Jacksonville ing Arts with Steven Reineke, Lynn Roberts and $7; Reserved: $20 Adult, $18 Child. Golden Era” Blue Cross and Blue Shield Smart’s Passing Fancies, a four move- Greyhound Racing. Info: (904) 354-5547 Location: Robert E. Jacoby Symphony Kaitlyn won the the JSO in a pre-Valentine’s Day bash ment jazz sonata, and David Baker’s December 8, 2007 at 8 pm Jane of Florida Pops Series or jaxsymphony.org. Tickets: $25-$65. Hall at the Times-Union Center for the hearts of audiences locally with her of popular gems from the big band era. Clarinet Sonata. Info: (904) 620-2878 Monheit With her crystalline voice and Location: Robert E. Jacoby Symphony Lynn’s career reads like a who’s who buttery phrasing, Jane Monheit is im- Performing Arts incredible voice and captivating pres- Location: Recital Hall, University of North Hall at the Times-Union Center for the of band-leading icons, from Dorsey to possible to pigeonhole, simultaneously ence at last season’s Holiday Pops. She Florida Performing Arts. Goodman to Sinatra. One of America’s suggesting the smarts of a seasoned jazz December 22, 2007 at 8 pm Jackson- returns for a tribute to one of the greatest most dynamic talents on the symphony artist and the cunning storytelling skills ville Symphony Orchestra “Handel’s singing stars ever, with favorites such as February 16, 2008 at 8 pm Jackson- February 29, 2008 at 8 pm Affabre pops stage, Steve will swing you into of the fi nest cabaret performers. Join Messiah” Handel’s Messiah. Hallelujah! “The Trolley Song,” “Over the Rainbow” ville Symphony Orchestra – Grand Concinui Latin for ideally harmonized, romance with favorites such as “You’ll Jane Monheit and her band to celebrate Info: (904) 354-5547 or jaxsymphony. and “You Made Me Love You,” plus Opera this ensemble was formed in 1983 by Never Know,” “Summer Wind,” “Night the holiday season this December. Info: org. Ticket Prices: $25-$65 Location: many more hits that defi ned Hollywood’s “La Traviata” Premiere Event– Spon- alumni of two famous men’s choirs in Robert E. Jacoby Symphony Hall at the Golden Era. Info: (904) 354-5547 or jax- and Day” and more. Info: (904) 354- the city of Poznan, Poland, and made its (904) 389 6222 or riversidefi nearts. sored by the Julius N. Frankel Foun- Times-Union Center for the Performing symphony.org. Ticket Prices: $25-$65. 5547 or jaxsymphony.org. Ticket Prices: Opera in three acts. Sung in debut at a Christmas concert in Gdansk, org Tickets: $25 Open Seating, $10 dation Arts Location: Robert E. Jacoby Symphony $25-$65. Location: Robert E. Jacoby Italian with English supertitles. Verdi Poland. Their repertoire consists of well Students. Location: Church of the Good Symphony Hall at the Times-Union Cen- Shepherd Hall at the Times-Union Center for the masterfully enthralls his audience with over 300 works ranging from Renais- January 2008 date TBA Master Class Performing Arts ter for the Performing Arts the romantic motto that true love must sance to contemporary, including many December 14-16, 2007 – Five Per- Terrance McNally’s Tony Award-Winning triumph over all, regardless of the pop musical standards. Info: (904) 389 formances Jacksonville Symphony look at the life of opera legend Maria January 25, 2008 at 8 pm Jacksonville February 9, 2008 at 8 pm Dallas Brass social customs of the day. Info: (904) 6222 or riversidefi nearts.org Tickets: Orchestra “Home for the Holidays” Callas will be performed. Info: First Coast Symphony Orchestra “Mozart Unlim- Since its founding in 1983 by Michael 354-5547 or jaxsymphony.org. Ticket $25 Open Seating, $10 Students. Loca- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida Opera (904) 417-5555 Location: Lime- ited” Jacksonville Greyhound Racing Levine, the Dallas Brass has become one Prices: $35-$85 Location: Jim and tion: Church of the Good Shepherd Pops Series The Jacksonville Symphony light Theatre, St. Augustine. Discovery Series The ways in which Orchestra will bring home sparkling Mozart set the musical trend is without melodies, a cozy atmosphere and heart- January 6 at 3:30 pm R. Carlos Na- limit. We’ll drop you in on an overture warming joy with musical gems for the kai & Udi Bar-David In this unique that picks up where the madness of The at the ritz season. Info: (904) 354-5547 or jax- collaboration, RC Nakai, the world’s Barber of Seville leaves off. Next comes symphony.org. Ticket Prices: $25-$65. foremost Native American fl ute player, Mozart in the fi nal months of his life, The Ritz in La Villa holds monthly events such as the ArtWalk and the Spoken Word Poetry they hold on the offering a concerto frequently described fi rst Thursday of each month. The fi rst Friday of each month they hold Amateur Night at the Ritz at 7:30 pm. free sunday concerts at the main library as haunting with its emotive and delicate Like the Apollo’s show in Harlem, contestants compete for cash prizes and the cheers or jeers of the audi- interplay between soloist and orchestra. Intermezzo concerts are presented in the Main Library’s Hicks In Symphony No.36, he is the magnifi - ence decides who goes home with the cash. Tickets are available at the Ritz Theatre & LaVilla Museum, Times Auditorium, located on the Conference Level of the Library near cent statesmen, refl ecting on the elegant Union Performing Art Center, Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena, Ticketmaster outlets or ticketmaster.com/ hospitality in the cheerful town of Linz. venue/106727 the Main Street entrances. Info: (904) 354-5547 or jaxsymphony. org. Ticket Prices: (Discovery) $18-$45. October 9, 2007 It Was Never About at 8:00 pm. Tickets are $55.00 speak from their experiences and tell September 16, 2007 at 2:30 pm Krzysztof Biernacki, baritone, and Gary Location: Robert E. Jacoby Symphony A Hot Dog And A Coke. 6pm - 8pm. a more personal side of the Move-

Smart, piano Hall at the Times-Union Center for the Free! An eyewitness account of Ax October 13, 2007 FILM SERIES: Save ment. Running Time: 50 minutes. Performing Arts October 21, 2007 at 2:30 pm Katherine Cromley, soprano Handle Saturday by Rodney Hurst, Our History: Voices of Civil Rights. October 20, 2007 SOPHISTICATED 11am - 1pm. Free! A&E Television Featuring music by Duke November 18, 2007 at 2:30 pm Bella Voce Cabaret: Opera Scenes and Arias former member of Jacksonville’s LADIES January 28 & February 26, 2008 at NAACP Youth Program, political activ- Networks 2005 A moving compilation Ellington, Ritz Theatre and LaVilla December 16, 2007 at 2:30 pm First Coast Clarinet Society: Holiday Notes 7:30 pm Music of Our Time: Featuring ist, educator and author. of oral histories gathered during the museum brings this show as part Ruxandra January 13, 2008 at 2:30 pm Aaron Brask, horn Ruxandra Marquardt, Violin summer of 2004 for the project, “Voices of their Black Broadway series. It Marquardt (nee Simionescu) has been October 13, 2007 ASHFORD & SIMP- of Civil Rights”, a collaborative effort by featured Gregory Hines and Mercer February 10, 2008 at 2:30 pm UNF Chamber Singers, Cara Tasher, conductor active as a soloist and chamber musician SON IN CONCERT Please join the AARP, the Leadership Council on Civil Ellington, the son of Duke Ellington, March 9, 2008 at 2:30 pm Arioso Flute Quartet since her early teens. She has also made Ritz as we celebrate our 8th Annual Rights, and the Library of Congress. when it originally ran on broadway for solo recordings for Romanian, German, April 13, 2008 at 2:30 pm Robert W. Tudor, baritone Anniversary with Ashford & Simpson Blacks and whites, children and parents, 767 performances. The show starts and Hungarian TV and radio. From 1988 in concert on Saturday, October 13th Freedom Riders and segregationist at 8:00 pm and tickets are $28.50. May 4, 2008 at 2:30 pm Guy Yehuda, clarinet, and the UNF Clarinet Choir to 2000, she was the Associate Concert- June 1, 2008 at 2:30 pm Huls Clark Duo (Max Huls, violin, and Christine master of the Syracuse Symphony and The Ritz Theatre & LaVilla Museum is located at 829 N. Davis Street. Please call (904) 632-5555 for details on served on the faculty of Syracuse Univer- Clark, piano) tickets, or email [email protected]. sity. Info: (904) 620-2878 or ruxandra-

22 september 27-october 3, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper a little jazz, soul and big band love Whether Jacksonville at large has realized it or not, Jacksonville is a jazz town. Most Jacksonville residents might be quicker to associate our bold new city of the south with Lynyrd Skynyrd or the Allman Brothers, but the truth is, our city produces a wealth of great jazz. From UNF’s notable jazz program to the annual Jacksonville Jazz Festival, we are defi nitely on the map to jazz afi cionados. Even outside of those two insti- tutions, there is a great deal of spectacular jazz performances gracing our stages in the coming season.

Glen Miller Orchestra

jazz at unf Claude McKnight (brother of R&B crooner, Brian McKnight) their a capella fl orida theatre harmonies, original scores and vocal November 29, 2007 Kurt Elling, Jazz Oct 23, 2007 at 8 pm Acoustic Alchemy pyrotechnics have earned them their Vocalist The 20th Anniversary of the With the release of This Way, Acoustic GAJS begins with the preeminent male place in the music world for their hard Alchemy’s fi rst album under Higher jazz singer today. Kurt Elling’s rich work, raw talent and Christian faith. Octave/Narada Jazz’s association with baritone voice spans four octaves and Noted producer Quincy Jones proclaims Blue Note Records, guitarists Greg Car- displays an astonishing technical facil- the singers, “the greatest vocal ensemble michael and Miles Gilderdale celebrate ity and emotional depth. Elling has an on the planet.” With their roots fi rmly a remarkable two decades since 1987’s awesome command of rhythm, texture, planted in gospel, they create a soul- Red Dust and Spanish Lace established phrasing, and dynamics, often sounding ful palette of spiritually uplifting music the British ensemble as an ever evolving, more like a virtuoso jazz musician than with elements of jazz, pop, R&B and a powerhouse force in contemporary jazz. a singer. His repertoire ranges from his dash of doowop that make them one of Their thousands of fans around the world own compositions to modern interpreta- the most unique, enduring and best-loved may be feeling nostalgic, but the duo— tions of standards, both of which can be a capella groups in the world. Their while keeping their trademark acoustic the springboard for free form improvisa- amazing arrangements are original, fl aw- guitar synergy front and center—Is tion, scatting, spoken word, and poetry. less and produce a variety of inspiring clearly committed to forging ahead, Also featuring UNF’s award-winning medleys with incredible heart! Info: (904) following the laid back pop-soul vibe of 620-2878 or unf.edu/fi neartscenter and Jazz Ensemble 1. Info: (904) 620-2878 American/English (2005) with their most Tickets: $35, $27 Students: $8 Location: take6.com Tickets: $38-$30, Students aggressive and swinging, hard rocking Recital Hall UNF $10 Location: UNF Fine Arts Center and artfully jazzy disc to date. Info: (904) 355-2787 or fl oridatheatre.com Tickets: February 8, 2008 at 7:30 pm Eddie body & soul: on $$28.50-33.50, on sale 07/27/2007 Gomez Trio with Tony Cobb Eddie Location: Florida Theatre, Downtown Gomez has been on the cutting edge higher ground of the jazz scene since his debut in the mid sixties. He has performed with Jazz James E. Jenkins, the founder of Body & fccj big band swing giants Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, Bill Soul says that is the organization “Es- Evans, Gerry Mulligan, Benny Goodman, sentially… consists of artists that make January 10, 2008 at 7:30 pm The Glen and Chick Corea. Master drummer, a living through art and want to give back Miller Orchestra This world famous Jimmy Cobb, together with legends Miles to the community.” To that end, they band is the most popular and sought Davis and John Coltrane made recording often play at hospitals and homes, in an after big band in the world today history with the album, ‘Kind of Blue,’ effort to use art as a healing medium. for both concert and swing dance the most sold jazz recording of all time! They’re holding a concert called Higher engagements. With it’s unique jazz He has recorded on Miles Davis’ ‘Some Ground, featuring the jazz greats Wynton sound, the Glenn Miller Orchestra is Day My Prince Will Come,’ ‘Sketches of Marsalis and The Marus Roberts Trio on considered to be one of the greatest Spain,’ ‘Porgy & Bess,’ and Miles Davis October 7th at 6 pm. They’re there “to bands of all time. The present Glenn at Carnegie Hall. Info: (904) 620-2878 show the importance of giving back” Miller Orchestra was formed in 1956 Tickets: $30, $23 Students: $8 Location: in a celebration of the life and legacy of and has been touring consistently since, Recital Hall UNF Dr. John Ibach, Jr. who was part of the playing an average of 300 live dates a program from the beginning. This noted year all around the world. Trombonist February 21, 2008 7:30 pm Take 6 Ten chief heart surgeon at Vassar was also Larry O’Brien is the orchestra’s present time Grammy winners, Take 6 blends a a jazz pianist and helped spearhead the musical director. Info: (904) 632-3373 little bit of jazz, a little bit of R&B and a program. For tickets and info call (904) artistseries.fccj.org. Location: Wilson whole lotta great gospel! Established by 354- 5547 or go to jaxsymphony.org. Center for the Arts  eujacksonville.com | september 27-october 3, 2007 23 shows for children and

families by kellie abrahamson

One of my fondest childhood memories is when my third grade class went on a fi eld trip to see a play. Watching a fairytale such as Snow White unfold before my young eyes was a magical experience, one that I’ve tried to give my own children since they’ve been old enough to sit (kind of) still for a decent stretch of time. Thankfully, the Jacksonville area has plenty of fun family shows to choose from, allowing my family and yours to see something new on any given day. Whether you take in a show on the week- end as a family or your little one goes on a fi eld trip with their class, the experience of seeing live theater will be one your child won’t soon forget. Most of the productions this year have an educational purpose. Many of the Theatreworks shows, for example, are based on books kids are reading in school, including Junie B. Jones, a musical based on the popular children’s books by Barbara Park. “It gives them a new perspective on what they read and hopefully encourages them to read again,” said Jamie Kent, Theatreworks’ Director of Operations, of the shows they have coming up. Still, some shows are all about fun. The Florida Theatre will bring us the Fred Garbo Infl atable The- ater Co., an eye-popping concert that will capture the audience’s imagination with its massive blow-up shapes and unique infl atable characters. The fast-paced show promises to wow the entire family. Not only does exposing kids to live theater at a young age teach them important lessons and foster a sense of wonder, it also invests in the future of the art form. Kids that go see plays and performances will grow up to support and even participate in theater when they’re older. In an age where the arts are being taken out of schools around the country, giving kids a chance to see productions like these could help theater bounce back in a big way in the future. Be sure to take advantage of some of the amazing family shows Jacksonville theater groups have planned this season. It’s a great way to spend some quality time with your family and show kids how great live theatre can be.

the fl orida theatre 7:30 pm The Sleeping Beauty on Ice Zac, an adorable 5 year old boy and his (2nd-7th grades) An icy paradise golden retriever and best friend, Starsky. Jan 12, 2008 at 7:30 pm Riders in the complete with champion skaters from Together, they embark on a fun-fi lled Sky With 29-plus years and well over Russia’s St. Petersburg Ice Ballet. Mag- adventure through their hometown where 5,000 performances under their collec- nifi cent costumes, fantastic choreogra- they befriend Zoe, a spunky 5 year old tive cowboy belt, Riders in the Sky, the phy and music by Tchaikovsky combine girl who is new to town and rather shy. multi-Grammy Award winning Western art and storybook entertainment with Over the course of the day Zack and Zoe music group whose music is fi rmly the tradition of world ballet in “Sleeping encounter many new friends that teach grounded in the rich American music Beauty.” The St. Petersburg State Ice them wonderful life lessons along the traditions of such legendary cowboys Ballet gives an absolutely sublime ver- way. Info: (904) 632-3373 or artist- singers as Gene Autry, Roy Rogers, and sion of Sleeping Beauty arctic style. 90 series.fccj.org Tickets: $19.50 Location: the Sons of the Pioneers—and whose minutes Info: (904) 620-2878 Tickets: The Wilson Center fun-fi lled performances have enchanted $5 Location: UNF audiences of all ages—are themselves February 5, 2008 at 5:30 pm and 8:30 the stuff of legend. Info: (904) 355-2787 fccj artist series pm David Copperfi eld has completely Tickets: $25, $22.50 (Adult); $17.50, changed and expanded the world of $15 (Children) Location: The Florida October 17, 2007 at 7:30 pm Kevin magic and illusion. He’s been called a Theatre Locke Native Dance Ensemble There ‘modern day Houdini’, and the ‘world’s is no other show like it. Representing best magician’ whom the New York Feb 16, 2008 at 7:30 pm Fred Garbo the Plains nations of Lakota, Anishinabe Times calls “our era’s giant of magic.” Infl atable Theater Co. The concert and Comanche, the Southeastern tribe An Intimate Evening of Grand Illusion is begins when a ten-foot cylinder slithers Choctaw, and the Woodlands Nations of his most spectacular stage show ever. onto the stage and implodes, and before Ojibwe and Oneida, this one-of-a-kind Info: (904) 632-3373 or artistseries.fccj. long the entire audience is playing catch ensemble of American Indian champions org Tickets: $30.75- $49.75 Location: with gigantic infl atable props! The big and award winners offers a rich variety Times-Union Center for the Performing blow-up shapes shimmer, balloon, de- of American Indian traditions and aes- Arts fl ate and bounce in a rainbow of colors. thetics in dance, instrumentals, song, Fred Garbo and Daielma Santos inhabit storytelling, sign language and audience February 16, 2008 at 7:30 pm Jungle this enchanting world with tremendous interaction. Info: (904) 632-3373 or Jack Hanna Through his nationally aplomb and skill. Info: (904) 355-2787 artistseries.fccj.org Tickets: $33 Loca- syndicated television show Jack Hanna’s Ticket Price(s): $20, $15; $17.50, tion: The Wilson Center Animal Adventures, and hundreds of $12.50 (As Part of Citi Family Series) appearances on the Late Show with Location: The Florida Theatre January 8, 2008 at 7:30 pm New Shang- David Letterman, Good Morning America hai Circus- Incredible Acrobats of China and Larry King Live, animal expert Jack unf This talented troupe defi es gravity and Hanna has become a household name. executes breathtaking feats that stretch Jungle Jack’s live show features many November 30, 2007 at 9:30 am & 11:30 the human ability. Many of these acts of his favorite animal friends, as well as am, Tomas and the Library Lady (K- trace their origin back over two thousand fascinating and humorous stories and 3rd grades) The inspiring true story of years to traditional Chinese harvest festi- footage from his adventures around the Tomás Rivera, who grew up in a migrant vals. If it’s humanly possible, and even if world. Audiences give Jack rave reviews worker family, befriended a librarian in it’s not, Shanghai’s performers do it with – everyone from the youngest child Iowa, and learned to love books and spectacular fl are, combining traditional, to the oldest adult is entertained and the places they took him. When Tomás Chinese culture with modern day cho- inspired. Info: (904) 632-3373 or artist- meets the library lady, nothing is ever the reography, amazing lighting, enchanting series.fccj.org Tickets: $25.50-$42.50 same again. Adapted from the well-loved scenery and powerful music. Info: (904) Location: Robert E. Jacoby Hall at the book by prolifi c children’s author Pat 632-3373 or artistseries.fccj.org Tickets: Times-Union Center for the Performing Mora, this play can be readily understood $33 Location: The Wilson Center Arts by both English- and Spanish-speakers. 55 minutes Info: (904) 620-2878 Tick- January 29, 2008 at 7 pm A Kid’s Life! thrasher horne center ets: $5 Location: UNF is a heart warming musical fi lled with upbeat music, dazzling dance and ador- November 28, 2007 at 9:30 am & 11 December 13, 2007 at 10:30 am and able characters. We begin by meeting am Katie Couric’s The Brand New Kid

24 september 27-october 3, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper David Copperfi eld

School Time Performance Kennedy Info: (904) 276-6750 Tickets: $28-48. narrated by composer and conductor Center Imagination on Tour This world- Location: Thrasher-Horne Theater, Main Grant Cooper, will enchant your family premiere musical is adapted from Katie Stage, Orange Park with colorful music, fanciful characters Couric’s popular children’s book, The and audience participation throughout. Brand New Kid. It’s the very fi rst day jacksonville Thanks to the generous partnership with of second grade, and Lazlo S. Gasky is TARGET, all general admission tickets the new kid in school. He’s your typical symphony orchestra are $7. Info: (904) 354-5547 or jaxsym- 7-year-old boy, but because he doesn’t October 28, 2007 at 3 pm Pre-concert phony.org. Tickets: General Admission: look or speak quite like the others, the activities at 2 pm Jacksonville Sympho- $7; Reserved: $20 Adult, $18 Child. teasing and taunting begin. When Ellie ny Orchestra “Symphonic Spooktacu- Location: Robert E. Jacoby Symphony McSnelly realizes how tough Lazlo has it, lar” Featuring “The Composer is Dead” Hall at the Times-Union Center for the she risks being ridiculed herself to spend by Lemony Snicket Target Family Series Performing Arts an afternoon with him. With book and The composer is, well, “decomposing” lyrics by Melanie Marnich, this uplifting and someone lurking on stage did it jacksonville new musical proves that being yourself — a felonious fl ute, perhaps, or crazed children’s chorus is the best way to be. Thrasher Horne xylophonist. Find out as each instrument Center Info: (904) 276-6750 Tickets: $6. group tells its own hilarious story. The November 11, 2007 at 3 pm Fall Con- Location: Thrasher-Horne Theater, Main program also includes Danse macabre, cert: Treble, Lyric and Training choirs Stage, Orange Park “Witch’s Ride” from Hansel and Gretel, The Treble, Lyric and Training choirs In the Hall of the Mountain King, Harry are boys and girls that are beginning December 7, 2007 at 7:30 pm Peter Pan Potter Suite and “Imperial March” from and intermediate singers who are learn- The High-Flying Musical is a classic tale Star Wars. (Bring the kids in their favorite ing through the Jacksonville Children’s of youth, joy and freedom, all captured in costumes to join the ghouls and goblins Chorus the joy of singing. Support them this lavish new production of the Tony- of the orchestra and watch the kids during their Fall Concert which is open Award winning Broadway musical. Don’t parade across the stage!) Thanks to the to the public. Info: (904) 346-1636 or miss a beat of this fun-fi lled musical generous partnership with TARGET, all jaxchildrenschorus.com Location: Saint adventure, complete with the lovable lost general admission tickets are $7. Info: Marks Episcopal Church, 4129 Oxford boys, high-stepping pirates, the delight- (904) 354-5547, or (877) 662-6731, Avenue fully dangerous Captain Hook and the or jaxsymphony.org. Tickets: General perennial charm of the boy who won’t Admission: $7; Reserved: $20 Adult, $18 November 20, 2007 at 7 pm Fall Con- grow up - Peter Pan! This is a magical Child. Location: Robert E. Jacoby Sym- cert: Concert Choir with guest artist Dr. journey you and your family will never phony Hall at the Times-Union Center for Ysaye M. Barnwell This choir is consid- forget. Info: (904) 276-6750 Tickets: the Performing Arts ered the advanced level of the Jackson- $28-48. Location: Thrasher-Horne The- ville Children’s Chorus, with admission ater, Main Stage, Orange Park November 18, 2007 at 5 pm Jackson- by the invitation from the Director. Rep- ville Symphony Youth Orchestra Fall ertoire for this choir is more challenging January 26, 2008 at 7:30 pm Clay Concert Now in its 14th successful sea- and includes material in four-part har- County All-County Elementary Chorus son, the Jacksonville Symphony Youth mony with greater emphasis on foreign For a second season, the Thrasher-Horne Orchestra (JSYO) enrolls 250 young language singing. Come see what these Center for the Arts partners with the musicians between the ages of 7 and 22, kids can do when they perform under Dr. Clay County educational community to who are admitted through competitive Ysaye M. Barnwell. The concert is open present this annual musical evening. auditions. This Fall Concert is their fi rst to the public. Parents are welcome. Info: With more than 200 voices representing performance of the season and will show (904) 346-1636 or jaxchildrenschorus. each of the Clay County School District’s just how hard these kids work to make com Tickets: Location: Terry Concert elementary schools, it’s the perfect way beautiful music together. Info: (904) Hall at Jacksonville University to support music education and the per- 354-5547, or (877) 662-6731, or online forming arts in Clay County. Info: (904) at jaxsymphony.org. Tickets: General December 1, 2007 at 2 pm and 8 pm 276-6750 Tickets: free and available Admission- Adult: $12, Student: $7 Feast of the Carols with the UNF Cho- only with the purchase of a membership. Location: Robert E. Jacoby Symphony rale Sing in the season with UNF’s 2nd Location: Thrasher-Horne Theater, Main Hall at the Times-Union Center for the annual Feast of Carols. Featuring en- Stage, Orange Park Performing Arts sembles from the Jacksonville Children’s Chorus, Douglas Anderson School of the February 16, 2008 at 7:30 pm Little January 27, 2008 at 3 pm Pre-concert Arts, Fletcher High School, Paxon High Women: The Broadway Musical- Ken- activities at 2:00 pm Jacksonville School, FCCJ, Plantation nedy Center Imagination on Tour Fresh Symphony Orchestra “The Magic of Chapel, LaVilla School of the Arts, Shiloh from its Broadway run, this wonderful Rumpelstiltzkin” Target Family Series Metropolitan Baptist Church, as well as story - based on the classic novel by “Straw into Gold!” Rumpelstiltzkin is the the UNF Chorale and Chamber Singers Louisa May Alcott - comes to life as name, and that magical act is his claim performing diverse holiday repertoire, an exhilarating new musical fi lled with to fame. This up-to-date musical setting sending you home humming your favor- glorious music, dancing and heart. of the classic Brothers Grimm fairy tale,  eujacksonville.com | september 27-october 3, 2007 25 ite holiday tunes. The concert is free and goofy humor. “A fast, funny, relentlessly storytelling. Info: (904) 353-3500 or the- The Fairly Big Broadcast of 1937 open to the public. Info: (904) 346-1636 hip science show!” -Associated Press atreworksjax.com Tickets: $6 Location: or jaxchildrenschorus.com Location: Info: (904) 353-3500 or theatrework- Florida School for the Deaf and Blind, Lazarra Performance Hall at UNF sjax.com Tickets: $7 Location: UNF St Augustine. (Also playing on Tuesday, January 15, 2008 at 10 am and 12 pm at December 14, 15 and 16 2007 Concert Tuesday, November 6, 2007 at 10 am the Florida Theatre.) Choir Home for the Holiday Pops and 12 pm From the Mixed Up Files of Celebrate the sights and sounds of the Mrs Basil E. Frankweiler To celebrate Tuesday, January 29, 2008 at 10 am holidays, as Jacksonville audiences the 37th anniversary of E.L. Konigsburg’s and 12 pm Little Red Riding Hood This of all ages enjoy the most wonderful Newbery Medal-winning classic, Art- beloved tale is brought to life with theatri- time of the year. The Jacksonville Sym- sPower has created an enchanting new cality and beauty. The forest and animals phony Orchestra and the Jacksonville drama that follows Claudia Kincaid and come alive in this faithful retelling fi lled Children’s Chorus will bring home Jamie up the stone steps with movement, laughter and suspense. sparkling melodies, a cozy atmosphere of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Info: (904) 353-3500 or theatreworksjax. and heartwarming joy with musical gems right into the middle of an adventure sure com Tickets: $6 Location: Florida Theatre for the season Info: (904) 346-1636 or to captivate audiences of all ages! Info: jaxchildrenschorus.com *NOTE: Show (904) 353-3500 or theatreworksjax.com Tuesday, February 26, 2008 at 10 am times are as follows- December 14 at 8 Tickets: $7 Location: Florida Theatre and 12 pm Mammoth Follies After a pm, December 15 at 3 pm and 8 pm, and 7-year absence, the dinosaurs will once December 16 at 7:30 pm Tickets: $25- Friday, November 16, 2007 at 9:30 am again storm the stage in a completely $65 Location: Robert E. Jacoby Sym- and 11:30 am The Lion, The Witch, and renovated production of this wildly popu- phony Hall at the Times-Union Center for the Wardrobe This enchanting musical lar and thoroughly educational produc- the Performing Arts is based on C.S. Lewis’ adventure story tion. Enormous puppets populate the about four children of war-torn England, stage, including your host Willie Mam- theatreworks who accidentally a strange and wondrous moth, Smiley the Saber-Toothed Tiger, place ruled by the cold-hearted White Bessie the 22-foot long Apatosaurus, Monday, October 8, 2007 at 9:30 am and Witch. Info: (904) 353-3500 or the- Tony and Trixie Triceratops, Terry the by erin thursby 11 am Big sisters have big Pterodactyl, and the 11-foot tall T. Rex in alt-theatre Max & Ruby atreworksjax.com Tickets: $7 Location: responsibilities, especially when the little Florida School for the Deaf and Blind, a musical trip through pre-history. This brother is a big trouble-maker. Ruby, a St Augustine. (Also playing on Monday, show is also playing and on Sunday, Most community theatres are forced to cater to the broad taste of their audience, and that often seven-year-old rabbit, loves her Grandma November 19, 2007 at 10 am and 12 pm February 24,2008 as part of the Florida means yet another production of Not that well-loved and well-known plays and musicals very much and wants to do something at the Florida Theatre) Times-Union Super Family Series Info: Guys & Dolls. special for her. She gets the brilliant (904) 353-3500 or theatreworksjax.com aren’t a wonderful part of theater; it’s just that sometimes you’re looking for something a little different. idea to put on a show, with music and Monday, December 10, 2007 at 10 Tickets: $7 Location: Florida Theatre Really different, ground-breaking, poignant and interesting theater isn’t as popular, but it is worthwhile. costumes and a castle and everything! am and 12 pm Junie B. Jones Hurray, That’s why some of our local community theaters have gone out on the proverbial limb to offer one or two She’ll need some help, though, so she Hurray! Junie B. Jones is fi nally graduat- alhambra dinner shows that skate the edge, like Players by the Sea’s Bat Boy last season. (This season they’re offering a tries to enlist her little brother Max. Fol- ing from kindergarten and is ready for home-grown play called Julius X, by local playwright Al Letson Jr. See their schedule on page 17). low the escapades of bunny siblings Max fi rst grade, at last! But getting used to theatre Atlantic Beach Experimental Theatre consistently offers classic-but-often-obscure pieces that are not and Ruby in this new musical inspired the whole new group of friends, a new October 2007 to April 2008 at 10 am normally part of community repertoires (see page 15). by Rosemary Wells’ books and based teacher, and new glasses is challenging, Hansel and Gretel The classic fairytale The newest and hottest edgy theater group is the Orpheus Theater Group (not to be confused with on the popular top-rated Nickelodeon even for irrepressible Junie B. Follow comes to life at the Alhambra Dinner the Orpheus Project at JU). Just a few months ago, in July, they staged in a local tanning salon. television program “Max and Ruby.” Info: her adventures as she writes everything Theatre. Watch as the daring sibling duo Closer That might seem a strange thing here in J-ville but, founder Jennie Jarvis says that “it’s common in New (904) 353-3500 or theatreworksjax.com down in her “top-secret Personal bees- outwits a wicked witch and saves the Tickets: $6 Location: Florida School for wax” journal. A new musical based on day. This show is designed for younger York or L.A. to stage plays in whatever space you can get…no matter where it is.” the Deaf and Blind, St Augustine the books by Barbara Park. Info: (904) children. *NOTE: Dates for this show are Audience members are not the typical season ticket holder at a community theatre. They range from 353-3500 or theatreworksjax.com Tick- October 17, 19, 24 and 31, November those who long for the newest thing, to those who are typically non-theatre-goers. Such avant-garde the- Thursday, October 25, 2007 at 10 am ets: $7 Location: UNF 2, 7, 9 and 30, December 7, 11 and 14, ater in Jacksonville garnered a large and positive response. and 12 pm Beakman Live Science January 25 and 30, February 1, 15 , 20, “We got the people that don’t normally come to the theatre… We had men who hate theater… [and] Show! Do the words “Science Project” Monday, January 14, 2008 at 9:30 am 22, 27 and 29, March 5, 7, 12, 14 and there were people who came to the show multiple times,” says Jarvis. strike fear in your heart? Let Beakman and 11:30 am Dr. Dolittle Inspired by 19, and April 16 and 18. Bag lunches are “As much as people like to say that we don’t have a lot of culture—we’re getting a lot better.” And, – Obie award-winning artist Paul Zaloom the classic book, author (and World War welcome, apple juice will be served. Info: she adds, “People in Jacksonville are hungry for more.” – unlock the secrets of science (well, I lieutenant) Hugh Lofting reaches out (904) 641-1212 or alhambradinnerthe- Here are just a few choices for the next few months that are sure to be performances that you’ve some of them) for you and your family. to his son during wartime by writing atre.com/new_school.htm Tickets: $8 He is living proof that science can be fun, a magical story about a kind-hearted for elementary school groups Location: likely never seen. Check our paper for updates, since some of the more experimental venues, such as with belief-suspending demonstrations of doctor who can talk to the animals. Alhambra Dinner Theatre. See our list- Boomtown and the Orpheus Theater Group rarely lay out their seasons months and months in advance. intriguing scientifi c principles, plenty of Doctor Dolittle is an enchanting musical ing of musicals for other family-friendly audience participation, and his trademark about communication and the power of performances at Alhambra! December 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, & 22, 2007 this production at their new digs in San and had a diffi cult upbringing, getting at 8 pm The Pillowman With echoes Marco. Info: (904)502-1702 Location: kicked out of high school and becoming of Stoppard, Kafka, and the Brothers Boomtown 1520 Hendricks Avenue a member of the Bloods gang. After his Grimm, The Pillowman centers on a cousin was shot, Hughley turned his life writer in an unnamed totalitarian state November 15, 16, 17, 2007 at 7:30pm around, got a GED and a job and, after who is being interrogated about the The Orpheus Project This Jacksonville prompting by his wife, LaDonna, tried his gruesome content of his short stories University Project is so old that it feels hand at stand-up comedy. His comedy and their similarities to a series of child new and experimental. Based on the was a huge success and in 1992 he murders. The result is an urgent work Greek myth of Orpheus and Euridice was picked to be the fi rst host of BET’s of theatrical bravura and an unfl inch- this multi-disciplinary performance will ComicView. He is number 54 on Comedy ing examination of the very nature and explore the central themes of love, loss, Central’s list of the 100 Greatest Stand- purpose of art. Info: (904) 296-3292 or doubt, and healing. What makes this ups of All Time. Tickets: $39.50 orpheustheatergroup.com/ production extra-fresh is that they merge music, voice, poetry, art, theater, fi lm, Jan 17, 2008 at 8 pm Kathy Griffi n October 19- November 11, 2007 Night of and dance. JU students will thrill, aston- Emmy nominated Chicago native, Kathy the Living Dead by Lori Allen Ohm. No, ish, and captivate the audience in this Griffi n, a multi-faceted performer with this isn’t a showing of a classic movie. original conceptual production. Location: a rapid fi re wit, is probably best known It’s a play but essentially it deals with the Swisher Theatre, Jacksonville University for her four-year stint on the NBC sitcom same sort of Universal Themes as the “Suddenly Susan” as Vickie Groener, movie—undead zombies with a blood- Brooke Shields’ acerbic colleague. After thirsty lust for human fl esh. Huzzah! It’s fl orida theatre guest moving west and joining the famed Los thrills, chills and dark satire this Hallow- comics Angeles Groundlings comedy improvisa- een season! Too bad you have to drive all tional troupe, Kathy began building her the way to the Hippodrome in Gainesville Oct 12, 2007 at 8 pm Sinbad This comic resume with guest starring roles on such to experience it. Info: (352) 375-HIPP or has appeared in numerous TV shows series as “ER” and Seinfeld.” In August thehipp.org Location: The Hippodrome, and movie since the 80s and even had 2005 Kathy’s reality show, “Kathy Grif- Gainesville, FL his own, short-lived, self titled sitcom. fi n: My Life On The D-List”, debuted Tickets: $45-$37 on Bravo to rave reviews. The second October 27- 28, 2007 The Fairly Big season of “Kathy Griffi n: My Life On The Broadcast of 1937 The new and shiny Nov 02, 2007 at 8 pm D.L. Hughley He D-List” was nominated for an Emmy for Boomtown will reportedly be holding grew up in South Central Los Angeles Outstanding Reality Program, and season

26 september 27-october 3, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper Kathy Griffi n

three is fi lmed and slated for broadcast in October 23- 27, 2007 Jamie Kaler Meet an appetizer buffet and comedy show. summer 2007. Ticket Price(s): $48.50- Jamie Kaler, a stand up comedian who Nov 14, 2007 at 8:00 pm Ken Evans A $41 For tickets or more info on The has appeared on such talk shows as the high energy comic with a lot of wit! He’s Florida Theatre comic line-up, call (904) Late Late Show and had a recurring role performed all over the nation. Ticket 355-2787 or go to fl oridatheatre.com. on Will and Grace. Kaler also lends his prices for Wednesday are $6 or $8 de- voice to the show Robot Chicken, as the pending on seat selection. the comedy zone suicidal blooper host. He can currently be seen in the second season of the TBS November 15-17, 2007 Mark Curry If you’re looking for a comedy fi x here in show My Boys. Perhaps best known for starring in his town between guest comics at the Florida own hit television sitcom Hangin’ With Theatre, you might want to go down to October 30, 2007 -November 03, 2007 Mr. Cooper, and for hosting Showtime At the Comedy Zone in . Most Kerry White A one-time private investi- The Apollo, comedian, actor, host Mark tickets are between about $6-18 depend- gator (he was only shot once) who spent Curry is packing the laughs as one of the ing on the night of the week. (Along with most of his time observing people at top national touring comedy acts. the obligatory one drink minimum). You’ll their worst - is raising eyebrows with his fi nd everything from Last Comic Standing barbed act that has drawn comparisons November 20-24, 2007 Grandma Lee contenders (and winners) to up-and- to George Carlin, Dennis Leary and Recently seen on Last Comic Stand- coming fresh comedy. Richard Pryor. ing, She got her start right here at the Comedy Zone. Come see her perform on Oct 2, 2007 Oct 13, 2007 “Hypnotist” November 6-7, 2007 Mike Veneman The her old stomping grounds this week. You Rich Guzzi. Rich parlays his comic audience is his tool to use as he ad- won’t leave with out tears of laughter in talents into a highly entertaining hypnosis dresses a wide range of topics that gets your eyes. show with maximum audience participa- even the most serious person to laugh at tion. These shows have it all… comedy, themselves. November 27-December 1, 2007, 2007 drama, characters, role-playing and Johnny Milwater His trademark fusion self-awareness. November 8-10, 2007 John Heffron of sharply-written standup comedy and Winner of the second season of NBC’s death-defying variety performance has Oct 16, 2007 8:00 Children’s Home hit reality series “Last Comic Standing,” earned him the nickname “The One Man Society “FUN”draiser Watch some com- comedian John Heffron has become a Freak Show” Johnny has been destroying edy and support a charity! The Children’s comic to watch and love. He has made audiences (and stages) in hundreds of Home Society believes in children – in numerous television appearances includ- American Cities for over a decade and their promise and in their future. Every ing Jay Leno, The Late Late Show with has worked hard to earn his reputation as day, CHS works to develop, restore Craig Kilborn, and many others. a clean, high-energy and one-of-a-kind and strengthen families. Info: chsfl .org performer. Sarah Dufresne at 904-874-5736 or Nov 13, 2007 at 8pm Independent socialspiritsjax.com to purchase tickets Living Resource Center Fundraiser December 4-22, 2007 Russ Nagel Russ via Pay Pal. Headliner for the evening is Ken Evans. is the Funniest Biker in America. He is The Center’s mission is, “To empower known for having more laughs per minute Oct 17-20, 2007 Steve Trevino This all people with a disability…to live in- than most comics working the circuit comic’s uncanny ability to incorporate dependent and self-empowered lives.” today. Besides opening for top comedi- real-life scenarios and stories into his Proceeds will go to the Center. Doors ans such as George Wallace, Pam Stone entertaining physical humor and strong open at 7 pm, show starts at 8 pm. Info: and Rich Shydner, Russ is headlining stage presence, makes it no suprise that Samantha Bane (904) 399-8484 ext.11 clubs across the country. For tickets Steve has become on of the country’s Ticket Price: $30.00 per person, pre-reg- and info go to comedyzone.com or (904) fastest up-and-coming comedians. istration required. Ticket price includes 292-HAHA.

eujacksonville.com | september 27-october 3, 2007 27 more than most bands? Josh: In concert, yes. But we try to keep our songs live music down to the basic three minutes in our studio recordings. But on-stage, we improvise to fl ush out the details. When we fi rst wrote our songs, shows calendar we jammed out to extend the time, but we quickly learned that we couldn’t go on with four songs, THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 even with jamming-out for twenty minutes each. So that got us into writing more songs. Now we have a Pianist Tim Nold Seawalk Hotel, Jax Beach (249-9981) backlog of songs ready for performing. Open Mic w/Colleen Murphy Trade Winds Lounge, St. Augustine (829-8646) EU: Have you released a live album? Lift Roadhouse, Orange Park (264-0611) Josh: Yes, we just released a live album titled on DVD, which gives you the entire Chuck Nash My Place, Jax (737-5299) Rock’n’roll Band TLG experience. Big Engine Box Seats, Jax (908-7328) Open Mic w/Krank Shaft Overtime Sports Bar, Jax EU: I see that you have podcasts and other (786-5466) electronic venues, which makes your music Blistur Rivers Edge, Fernandina (491-3849) available in many different markets. Does this Out of Hand Lynch’s Irish Pub, Jax Beach (249-5181) stimulate ticket sales to your concerts? Josh: We make our music available for free so Mike Sweet & Friends Kingshead Pub, St. Augustine that people will come to our concerts. We’re about Sweet Low Down Aroma’s, Jax (928-0515) making new fans at each show. At this point in our Sweet Low Down Mercury Moon, Orange Park (215-8999) career, we are making our living from our live shows. Of course, we are hoping that will create a greater Park Street Band Ragusa, Jax (443-7888) market for our CDs. Mariachi Guadalajara Jimadores, Jax (739-5828) Deron Baker Zhanra’s, St. Augustine EU: Going this route gives you complete tea leaf green independence to make your own decisions. Have Boogie Freaks Square One, Jax (306-9004) you used a producer on any of you albums? Sea Wolf Café Eleven, St. Augustine (460-9311) Josh: For the last album, we brought in a top Steve Plays Too Loud London Bridge, Jax (359-0001) interview with Josh Clark engineer and producer. For our fi rst albums, we Vantage Bulletin Yesterday’s, Jax (387-0502) produced it ourselves, which in a manner of speaking, gave us enough rope to hang ourselves Chelsea Saddler Tastings, Jax BY RICK GRANT [email protected] with. But, we decided to bring in an impartial Jason Feller European Street, Jax (399-1740) WHO: Tea Leaf Green by the band’s reception that TLG was building the producer who we all trusted for our last studio David Milam Shannon’s Irish Pub, Green Cove WHERE: Freebird Live momentum to achieving national status with hit album. And we made some changes that we all Springs (230-9670) WHEN: October 9th potential. This lead to the band relentlessly touring to agreed made the record better. It was hard to take Cloud 9 Twisted Martini, Ponte Vedra promote its two critically acclaimed albums. our hands off the project, but it worked out for the Ten years ago, the musicians of Tea Leaf Green To fi nd out more about this rising group, EU best. This gave me a chance to concentrate on Strings of Fire Casa Monica, St. Augustine developed an original sound that appealed to a large talked to lead guitarist Josh Clark for a chat about playing and not worry about making the record Wes Cobb Fly’s Tie Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach (246-4293) fan base. The group’s sound harkens back to the the band. sound better. Play It Cool Jack Rabbits, Jax (398-7496) bands during the psychedelic era Cornerstone The Mill Top, St. Augustine (829-2329) when musicians jammed and super-groups were EU: Your group is making some noise in the biz. So EU: Yeah, the bottom line is pleasing your fans. born. It was the “season of the witch” that produced how long have you been in existence? Your fans are the holy grail of your career. And Ron Rodriguez Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955) The Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane, Hot Tuna and Josh: We’re coming up to our tenth anniversary in a if you can sell product at your shows, then it will 3 Eddie Bahamas, Jax Beach (241-3138) Quicksilver Messenger Service. few months. build momentum from there. Air play helps, but in Little Green Men West Inn Cantina, Jax (389-1131) Since then, the group has performed at many today’s world, radio is not life or death like it was Freeze Frame Fionn Maccool’s, Jax Beach (242-9499) outdoor festivals, making many new fans. Two EU: So you guys are road dogs from hell. When I years ago. years ago, TLG performed at the Bonnaroo Festival listened to your music, I came up with a formula- Josh: It was gratifying to see our fan community Mr. Natural Whitey’s Fish Camp, Orange Park (269-4198) to a crowd of over 10,000 rock fans. It was clear psychedelic =Grateful Dead. Is that an grow on our MySpace site and from our website. Acoustic Soul Creekside Dinery, St. Augustine (829-6113) accurate assumption on my part? And we cater to our fans, giving them a forum to Str8 Up Ragtime Tavern, Neptune Beach (241-7877) Josh: No. We just put it out there and let people express themselves and talk about our music. We decide what it is. Actually, we were never into the also make ourselves available to our fans, which Stu Weaver Coffee Roasters, Jax Dead. But I will say that we evolved with a similar keep them happy, and we learn a lot from them. Joel Venditti A1A Aleworks, St. Augustine (829-2977) spirit as the Dead, in that, we’re from San Francisco It’s like you said, fan devotion is the holy grail of John Winters Kingfi sh Grill, St. Augustine (824-2111) and we improvise on stage. But if anyone wants to marketing a band. compare us to the Dead, we’ll just go with it. It was fun chatting with Josh about his band’s FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 EU: Then what you’re saying is that you improvise rise to prominence in the wild jungle of rock’n’roll. Nate Holley Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955) Jose Lebron Urban Flats, Ponte Vedra Beach (280-5515) Busted & Confused Michelle’s, Jax Gary Campbell OC White’s, St. Augustine (824-0808) Box 543 Culhane’s Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach (249-9595) Joel Vendetti Twisted Sisters, Jax Beach (241-6453) Crash the Satellites The Pearl, Jax (791-4499) Wilson Empire Jack Rabbits, Jax (398-7496) Backrive Club Fusion, St. Augustine (829-8333) Big Engine Casey’s Hideaway, Yulee Mike Gottuso Seven Bridges, Jax (997-1999) Vantage Bulletin Midnight Expresso Café, Jax A1A North Cliff’s, Jax (645-5162) Antartic Yesterday’s, Jax (387-0502)

28 september 27-october 3, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper Mystic Dino Ocean 60, Jax Beach (247-0060) Sure I have battled my demons, especially over the past few years, but I am still standing. Karl W. Davis The Green Turtle, Fernandina Str8 Up Tom & Betty’s, Jax (387-3311) EU: What is the major difference between Ameri- Dana Salmela Café Centro, St. Augustine can touring and European? Airport Factory TSI, Jax (635-3024) TP: The food is better in the good ole’ U.S.A.!!! Artreyu Plush, Jax (743-1845) EU: You’ve bounced back from Eulogy to Metal Shadow Agency Spare Time Grill, Jax Beach Blade, then back to Eulogy and back to Metal Glass Camels Santa Maria, St. Augustine Blade. Why? TP: We actually made the leap to Metal Blade with Battle of the Bands Murray Hill Theatre, Jax (388-7807) our album in 2004, but we still Freeze Frame Aroma’s, Ponte Vedra (280-2525) owed Eulogy one more album under our contract, Blistur Monkey’s Uncle, Mandarin (260-1349) so they basically put out a compilation of our older stuff combined with some previously unreleased live BayStreet, Mystery Band The Landing, Jax material recorded during our Eulogy days. So we Bush Doctors Kingfi sh Grill, St. Augustine (824-2111) never essentially “went back” to Eulogy. It Kenhe The Homestead, Jax Beach was just previously recorded material that they put Rezist Brewsters Pub, Jax (223-9850) in one package for all our fans, new and old. Mike Sweet & Friends Mi Casa Café, St. Augustine (824-9317) EU: When writing III: In the Eyes of Fire, you were in the rehearsal space fi ve days a week, hours at Jager Dave On the Rocks, Jax (685-5268) the underground rises a time. Did the pressure of writing this album help Crystal Bessels Kickback’s, Jax (388-9551) or hurt the overall quality of the project? Sugar Bear West Inn Cantina, Jax (389-1131) TP: I think it mostly helped the process as we were interview with Unearth forced into a different world of writing and basically Willie Mae 200 First Street, Neptune Beach let our emotions dictate where the music and lyrics Clayton Bush Pauly’s Pizza, Jax (727-9101) CHRISTINA WAGNER went. We wrote the entire album during the long Grindfest Brewsters Pit, Jax (223-9850) BY Boston winter, locked ourselves in the basement Rebecca Zapen Casa Monica, St. Augustine WHO: Unearth good deal of down time, minus a few weekend mini and wrote pretty much six hours a days for four to WHERE: Freebird Live tours and an upcoming trip to Latin America, so we six days a week. It wasn’t the most pleasant experi- Big Al & the Kaholics Monkey’s Uncle, Jax Beach (246-1070) WHEN: September 30th are going to focus on locking down a new drummer ence, but it did add a darkness to the entire album in that down time. that I feel makes the record special. All that being Magnolia Possums Creekside Dinery, St. Augustine Almost ten years after this Massachusetts said, we would prefer to take more time on the next (829-6113) metal band fi rst found each other and began crank- EU: You operate with seven string guitars and a record as that stress would likely implode our writ- Chosenwon Seawalk Hotel, Jax Beach ing out axe-wielding metal music to a new genera- fi ve stringed bassist. Why and what are the ben- ing process if we were to be forced to do it again. Johari Shantytown Pub, Jax tion of metal fans, Unearth has fi nally risen from the efi ts? Matt Still Latitudes, Atlantic Beach (247-6606) underground to actualize their very name. Although TP: To put it simply, it just makes things heavier. To EU: What was it like working with Terry Date? it was not their fi rst foray into the national music elaborate, the guys tune to standard “E” and adding TP: He is a cool guy with a great ear for heavy mu- Odd Rod & Moe Tera Nova, Jax spotlight, their appearance on this year’s Aqua Teen the extra “B” gives them another string to shred with sic. He is laid back, but knows how to get the band Fifth South Freebird Live, Jax Beach (246-2473) and a heavier tone to crunch with. Hunger Force Movie Film for Theaters soundtrack members inspired when it is their turn to lay down Chris Kearnes Scores, St. Augustine Beach certainly brought even more metal-heads into their their tracks. Heffner On the Rocks, Jax (685-5268) fold as late-night cartoon-watching dorks from EU: In the track, ‘This Glorious Nightmare,’ you around the country learned that Meatwad calls Un- touch on common addictions and dependencies. EU: Is a new album in the works? earth “friend.” What prompted you to write such a heavy piece TP: We just recently started writing for the next FRIDAY-SATURDAY, SEPT. 28-29 Throughout the parade of lineup changes, record and should have that out by late summer or and how much can you relate to it personally? Red River Band Trade Winds Lounge, St. Augustine Unearth has managed to leverage a better record TP: I believe we all can relate to this song in some early fall of next year. We are mainly focused on this (829-9336) deal and tour with the likes of , way. Most of us have a crutch in life whether it be upcoming tour and shooting and putting together Shadows Fall and Lamb of God on the MTV Head- as common as booze and cigarettes, as harsh as our DVD which should be out by January or Febru- Roger That The Roadhouse, Orange Park (264-0611) bangers Ball US Tour, as well as Gwar and Slipknot. drug abuse or as innocent as a caffeine addiction. ary. Pili Pili Caribbee Key, Neptune Beach (270-8940) Last year they also returned to the ranks of Ozzfest After Eleven My Place, Jax (737-5299) bands for a second time. Members Buz McGrath, Lyons A1A Aleworks, St. Augustine (829-2977) John Maynard and Ken Susi recently released their latest album, In the Eyes of Fire. EU caught up with Dueling Pianos Dick’s Wings/Tinseltown, Jax Trevor Phipps to ask a few questions. Little Green Men Lynch’s Irish Pub, Jax Beach (249-5181) Cloud 9 Sun Dog Steak & Seafood, Neptune Beach EU: How did you guys land a track on the Aqua (241-8221) Teen Hunger Force fl ick? Chuck Nash Scarlett’s, St. Augustine (824-6535) Trevor Phipps: The writers for the show are big into metal and are fans of Unearth and approached us to Ocean Waves Band The Oasis, St. Augustine (471-3424) see if we were interested in writing a new song for Debra Rider Jazz The Brick, Jax (387-0606) their movie. We are all fans of the show and were Driven Mercury Moon, Orange Park (215-8999) stoked at the opportunity to make it happen. Paul Lundgren Band Tailgaters, Green Cove Springs (529-1976) EU: ATHF has helped launch MC Chris’ career, did Sidewalk 65 Ragtime Tavern, Neptune Beach (241-7877) being on the soundtrack help you boys win over new fans? Hunnert Proof Capn’ Odie’s, (241-8848) TP: I see emails and comments all the time from Vinyl Strangers The Mill Top, St. Augustine (829-2329) people saying that our tune ‘The Chosen’ was the Boogie Freaks Whitey’s Fish Camp, Orange Park fi rst song they had heard from Unearth, so you (269-4198) can say we defi nitely won over some new fans. I wouldn’t say it has “launched” our career, but it Out of Hand Square One, Jax (306-9004) didn’t hurt it. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 EU: You boys juggle Strapping Young Lad’s Gene George Aspinal Band, Sugar Bear, Blistur The Hoglan and Derek Kerswell. Any plans on securing Landing, Jax a full time drummer? Robby Schenck Kickback’s, Jax (388-9551) TP: After this upcoming tour we are going to have a

eujacksonville.com | september 27-october 3, 2007 29 Esther Brewsters Pit, Jax (223-9850) Ken Andrews Jack Rabbits, Jax (398-7496) BayStreet Ocean 60, Jax Beach (247-0060) all you need is love Bakersville Conspiracy Club Fusion, St. Augustine (829-8333) Freeze Frame Twisted Sisters, Jax Beach (241-6453) interview with Helios Eye Ruckus Jax Municipal Stadium, Jax Big Al & the Kaholics Overtime Sports Bar, Jax BY ERIN THURSBY [email protected] Strung Out Freebird Live, Jax Beach (246-2473) What: Helios Eye we had a mandolin…for a long time we still were Daniel Nahmod Unity Church, Jax (355-5100) When: October 28th doing acoustic guitars but we wanted to grow as far as our sound. Wild Card Shannon’s Irish Pub, Green Cove Springs Where: Yesterdays Looking for new sound in the Jacksonville Jeff: We had a lot of fans who were just interested Sweet Low Down Tastings, Jax scene? Then take a listen to Helios Eye. With in us, probably because we were an acoustic based Mark Wirtz Music Clarion Hotel, Jax their near-acoustic psychedelic sound and ironic band and… We yelled a lot. Big Engine Reni’s Rooster, Jax (880-1111) but upbeat harmonies, they caught my attention Ryan: when I trolled their MySpace page (myspace.com/ Kevin: And the antics. Remote Control Endo Exo, Jax (396-7733) eyehelios). Jeff: There were a lot of drunken antics. Deron Baker San Sebastian Winery, St. Augustine These guys are very DIY (Do-It-Yourself), but Kevin: There used to be shenanigans. Brian Turner w/Rip Tide Conch House, St. Augustine it’s more from necessity than anything else. Still, Zack: We would usually be screaming little more. (829-8646) their unique press kit, which includes hand-drawn Jeff: It’s not about that... Anastasia Urban Flats, Ponte Vedra Beach (280-5515) graphics and strange objects (mine had a small doll Zack: I mean, we didn’t have microphones. with a black spot on its nose) has garnered attention, Jeff: We have pretty voices and we like people to of the equipment we need to do it, cheap and good. Drivin South Monkey’s Uncle, Mandarin (2601349) gaining them a listen when they would otherwise hear our pretty voices. Zack: We can do it as many times as we want. In a The Sophomore Attempt Murray Hill Theatre, Jax fade into a sea of all those CDs that land on an EU: All of you guys sing, right? studio we’d have to pay for the time. (388-7807) album reviewer’s desk. They don’t like to be put in a Jeff: We’ve…been referred to by other people as Kevin: No pressure, you know. The Impediments Kingfi sh Grill, St. Augustine (824-2111) category of music, but when pressed they answered almost like a dirty version of the Beach Boys…We Jeff: It’s kind of a communal thing in a way, which Strings of Fire Jimadores, Jax (739-5828) with “psychedelic-folk-punk-pop.” may not have spectacular voices but when they is good. The band includes Kevin Newberry (vocals, blend together it’s like this…Crosby Stills Nash & Zack: But no, I don’t think it would ruin our sound at Mike Sweet & Friends Mi Casa Café, St. Augustine Young kind of vibe. Love and togetherness… all, it would probably make it more interesting. (824-9317) guitar) Ryan Ferrall (guitar, vocals, producer) Zach Elliott (guitars, vocals, keyboards) Jeffery Elliott Kevin: It’s actually a crucial part of our sound that Kevin: Except for the fact that it would cost way Stu Weaver Harry’s, Jax Beach (247-8855) (percussion, vocals). everybody sings…It’s weird for me if I’m singing more money. And when you’re in a studio, that’s Sly Poonce Brewsters, Jax (223-9850) and they aren’t there. what you’re thinking of: ‘I’m paying twenty-fi ve Open Mic w/Larry Broussard St. Johns Pizza Grill, EU: I must ask you about your legendary EU: So, you recorded everything for your dollars an hour’ instead of focusing on what you’re Jax (287-9900) press kit. How did you come up with that idea? album in a kitchen? creating. Flashback Creekside Dinery, St. Augustine (829-6113) Kevin: Just out of necessity, you know, money. We Ryan: No. EU: So how would you guys defi ne did what we could do with the materials that we EU: Some in the bathroom? yourselves? Dot Wilder Village Café, Jax (389-3995) could come up with. So half of our stuff is stolen Jeff: In a shed. Kevin: We’re not an acoustic band and we’re not an Evenstill Casa Monica, St. Augustine from lawyer’s offi ces…Actually when we sent it we Kevin: Hallways. electric band. We’re just a band… weren’t even trying to send out a press kit. We were Jeff: Houses in suburbia. Jeff: Don’t stick us in a category. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 just trying to send out our music to be heard. Zack: We’ve never been in an actual studio. Kevin: There’s no category you can stick us in. We EU: People think of you as an acoustic band. EU: If you did a studio production of an love everybody. Those Guys Sunset Grill, St. Augustine (471-5555) What do you guys say to that? album, do you think it would ruin what’s so special Jeff: It’s all about love. You’ve gotta have love. Dan Shepherd Harpoon Louie’s, Jax (389-5631) Zack: You can’t blame them, because we were an about your sound? EU: The Beatles said something like that, at Horrorpops Fuel, Jax (425-3835) acoustic band ‘cause we didn’t have any equipment. Jeff: If we were dealing with it, we’d be fi ne. some point. So we would just show up in place with our guitars Kevin: As long as we’re in control, no studio could Kevin: (laughs) Something like that. Isaac Byrd Jr. De Real Ting Café, Jax and…play. We didn’t used to use mics or anything; screw it up, change what we are…It’ll be nice to put Jeff: We’re just trying to bring back 1967. Unearth Freebird Live, Jax Beach (246-2473) we just played. I’m sure that’s the way most people out a record where someone else is paying for it, but EU: That exact year? Battle for Planetfest Jack Rabbits, Jax (398-7496) have seen us. Recently we got more gear and stuff. until then, I can’t see wasting a thousand dollars…all Jeff: It’s the era of psychedelic music. There was of our friends, between everyone we know, have all less bullsh*t, like greediness and avarice. Tarik Hassan Sahara Café, Jax Kevin: It started off with three guitars, a banjo and David Milam Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955) Bobby Flynn Culhane’s Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach (249-9595) By Faith Happy Stephanos, Jax Soulo Kingfi sh Grill, St. Augustine (824-2111) Pili Pili Ocean Club, Jax Beach (242-8884) Magnolia Possums Creekside Dinery, St. Augustine (829-6113) Jimmy Parrish Carib Key, Jax Beach (270-8940) McKenna Michelle’s, Jax (353-0002) Matanzas Trade Winds Lounge, St. Augustine (829-8646) Jim McKabba Creekside Dinery, St. Augustine (829-6113) Yankee Slickers Whitey’s Fish Camp, Orange Park (269-4198) 3rd Bass The Casbah, Jax (981-9966) Douglas Campbell The Mill Top, St. Augustine (829-2329) El Toro Loco Square One, Jax (306-9004) Jan Crawford & Friends Cortesses, St. Augustine (825-6775)

MONDAY, OCTOBER 1 Joey Cortesses, St. Augustine (825-6775)

30 september 27-october 3, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper reserve, but the studio has a large sound stage for recording soundtracks with full orchestras. So it was Charlie Walker Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955) an awesome experience to be in such an aesthetic Sam Pacetti The Mill Top, St. Augustine (829-2329) environment. We are really happy with the sound we got from those sessions. I actually co-produced the Jim McKabba Creekside Dinery, St. Augustine (829-6113) record. So I was in on the decisions as to the techni- Matt Still Ginger’s, Jax Beach cal aspects of the record and the mix, which came Lary Smith Harmonious Monks, Jax (886-3040) out really well. Steve Wheeler Tastings, Jax EU: On the recording, I love Luciana Souza’s voice. Band of Destiny Square One, Jax (306-9004) Tell me about her. Nolan Neal Fly’s Tie Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach (246-4293) The collaboration with her got us into doing this WK: Goliath & Dorian Lopez Casbah, Jax (981-9966) project. Our group met her at a recording session two years ago and we really hit it off. She offered Stu Weaver Harry’s, St. Augustine (824-7765) to work with us in concert. So we ended up doing twelve concerts with her. We were lucky to get her. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 2 She’s become a huge international star and has her own solo career. When we were planning the rep- Second String Sun Dog Steak & Seafood, Neptune Beach (241-8221) ertoire with her, we started collecting this Brazilian music. Now, Luciana is everywhere. She’s on Herbie Matanzas Trade Winds Lounge, St. Augustine (829-8646) Hancock’s new album and James Taylor recorded Christina Wagner & Friends Mark’s Downtown, Jax with her recently. So, she’s getting out of our reach. (355-5099) But she inspired us to do this album, and her voice Farless, Red Letter Bullet Murray Hill Theatre, Jax adds another musical dimension to the work. (388-7807) Will Pearsall The Mill Top, St. Augustine (829-2329) EU: When you go out on this tour, do you have Dave Massey Kickback’s, Jax (388-9551) other musicians besides the four guitarists? WK: Normally, when we tour we go out as a guitar Those Guys Hurricane Patty’s, St. Augustine (827-1822) string theory quartet. We used the fl autist in L.A., since he lives Scenic Void Cortesses, St. Augustine (825-6775) there. For this tour, we are four guitars on stage, Ron Perry Fionn MacCool’s, Jax Beach (242-9499) slightly amplifi ed. We play an eclectic program interview with William Kanengiser of the Los Angeles beginning with classical pieces including the Bran- Ace Winn Copelands, Jax Guitar Quartet denburg Concerto and a big Spanish piece. Then Matt Still Caribbee Key, Neptune Beach (270-8940) for the second half of the show we play a variety of Out of Hand Palace Saloon, Fernandina Beach material, which includes the Brazilian music from the Bill Rice Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955) BY RICK GRANT [email protected] album, world music, jazz, and Celtic pieces. So we play music for every taste, drawing fans of all age Mystic Dino Lynch’s, Jax Beach (249-5181) Paulo Bellinati, the celebrated guitar virtuoso and WHAT: Los Angeles Guitar Quartet groups. Mike Miller Band St. Nick’s Lounge, Jax WHERE: The Church of The Good Shepherd musician arranged his Carlo’s Dance for LAGQ and WHEN: October 12th fl autist Katisse Buckingham. The result is an excit- Jimmy Solari My Place, Jax (737-5299) EU: I see you have a new member. What happened For twenty-seven years the Grammy-winning ing, passionate selection of intricate pieces featuring Seth Ramsdill Fly’s Tie Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach Los Angeles Guitar Quartet (LAGQ) has toured bring- to Michael York–if you don’t mind me asking? (246-4293) eloquent harmonies and counterpoints. Not at all. He decided to retire from the group ing their eclectic repertoire of classical, Latin, Brazil- WK: After listening to LAGQ Brazil in my car, I was and pursue his solo career. He’s now known as an Ron Perry Harry’s, St. Augustine (824-7765) ian, jazz, rock, and pop music to guitar enthusiasts excited by its lush harmonies and nuanced arrange- important contemporary composer. But we parted El Toro Loco Square One, Jax (306-9004) and general audiences worldwide. The group just ments. I called William Kanengiser, co-founder of on great terms and he has offered to write a piece released its latest album of Brazilian music, arranged LAGQ, to chat about the group and the making of for us. We are excited about that prospect. for four guitars with fl ute and the majestic vocal this album which was recorded at George Lucas’ TUESDAY-WED., OCTOBER 2-3 chops of three-time Grammy winner Luciana Souza– Skywalker Ranch in Marin County, California. Interestingly, Michael York performed at Don Gene Nordan Mackenzie’s, Ponte Vedra (543-9143) the Sao Paulo-born jazz vocalist and composer. Casper’s Great Guitar Gathering last February 2007. The album features the music of Sergio and EU: You recorded this album at George’s Lucas’ The LAGQ will perform at The Church of The Good Odair Assad, Marco Pereira, Hereto Pascoal, Baden Skywalker Ranch in the wine district, what was Shepherd October 12th as part of the Riverside Fine WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 3 Powell, Antonio Carlos Jobim, Heitor Villa-Lobos. For that like? Arts Series. Mr. Beam Casa Marina, Jax Beach (270-0025) the LAGQ’s latest tour, they are performing as strictly William Kanengiser: It was serendipitous since the Artwalk-Steve Plays Too Loud Florida Theatre, Jax a quartet. The group consists of William Kanengiser, studio in L.A., where we usually record, closed its John Dearman, Matt Grief, (who replaced MichaelY- doors. We needed another place to record and our Dave Massey My Place, Jax (737-5299) ork) and Scott Tennant–all well known soloists apart engineer had worked with the woman who ran that Rip Tide w/Brian Turner Eddie Bahamas, Jax Beach from LAGQ studio. So he got us a great deal to spend a week (241-3138) In arranging the music for this benchmark at Lucas’ ranch. The place is in the wine district Burden of a Day Jack Rabbits, Jax (398-7496) album, the LAGQ collaborated with some of the top and looks like a large ranch with a working animal The Bath Party Burrito Gallery, Jax names in the Brazilian guitar scene, many of whom farm and a vineyard. The grapes they harvest go are close friends of the four individual soloists. to Francis Ford Coppola’s winery for his private Southern Wailers London Bridge, Jax (359-0001) FunKtion Brix, Jax Beach Wes Cobb Band Square One, Jax (306-9004) Eric Dawkins Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955) Today is the Day Thee Imperial, Jax (475-0488) Jesse & Leaa Cortesses, St. Augustine (825-6775) Busted & Confused Snookers, Jax (696-0714) Jodies Fiasco Castillo de Mexico, Jax Soulo Urban Flats, Ponte Vedra Beach (280-5515) The Mike Miller Band St. Nick’s Lounge, Jax (396-3396) El Toro Loco Aromas, Ponte Vedra (280-2525) Chuck Nash Sun Dog Steak & Seafood, Neptune Beach (241-8221) Sidewalk 65 Latitudes, Jax Beach (247-6606) Pili Pili Fly’s Tie Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach (246-4293) Dave Massey My Place Bar & Grill, Jax (737-5299)

eujacksonville.com | september 27-october 3, 2007 31 blistur greatest hits album review

Artist: Blistur Title: Greatest Hits Vol II Release Date: 08.31.07

The last time I crossed paths with Blistur was at the Sun Dog about six months ago. At the time, the modern rock band was recording its much anticipated new CD Greatest Hits Vol II in Atlanta. I was impressed with the group’s mostly original songs, which meld modern rock with nouveau acid rock, cleverly arranged with the heavy guitar overload. This power trio stitches together many rock genres into its hell-hath-no-fury sound. Now I have a copy of the CD and after listening to it–all 19 cuts– it exceeded my wildest expectations. It is one of the most impressive modern rock debuts in recent memory. The record is intelligently mixed with every nuance of the trio’s exemplary musicianship carefully injected into the spectrum. In other words, I could hear every sound on the CD, which includes Neal Gupton’s exceptional drumming, Chris Killam’s wall- of-sound guitar work, and Bart Hammond’s thunderous bass playing alongside the group’s perfectly mixed vocals. Amazingly, I could hear every word of the lyrics. The new CD features some showcase songs like ‘Mary Jane.’ “All I ever dream of is you..you are part of me” with an nice acoustic bridge that segues into the heavy guitar overdrive “So glad to be part of you.” ‘You’re a Hard Act to Follow’ has a Frank Zappa-esque break that drifts into a ballsy guitar suite. ‘Religion Is Sin’ pulsates with many changes in rhythm and mood, allowing for an extended guitar solo and, more signifi cantly, Neal’s showcase drumming. Man this dude has bull chops. ‘See You Smile’ is written as a ballad that evolves into a burner. “To see you smile is the only thing I’ll ever need.” It’s a classy anthem with the obligatory heavy guitar that breaks up the gushing sentimentality. It’s like revving your Harley in front of your girlfriend’s window while singing her a love song. Diversity of sound is the focus of this work, in that, it has fusion changes with the Marshall guitar sound used as a form of heavy percussion with room for single note solos, which harkens back to classic rock. However it never loses its modern rock overview. The CD is strangely satisfying because of the way the heavy guitar sound comes in like a thunderstorm. A long rumbling growl comes on strong just when a song is teetering on sentimentality. Bang zoom, the guitar blasts that notion to bits. The work has elements which are reminiscent of Miles Davis’ breakthrough album Bitch’s Brew. Overall, the album offers an eclectic menu for every rock fan. It rocks wild and hard, yet it contains some complex modulations one only hears in jazz fusion. It’s Captain Beefheart meets modern rock. Some of the changes are “blistering.” It’s got balls of steel and a heart of darkness. The album is available on Blistur’s website at blistur.com or myspace.com/blistur. The band will perform at the Florida State/Alabama College Football Game Celebration at the Jax Landing on Sep- tember 29th. - BY RICK GRANT messengers album review

Artist: August Burns Red Title: Messengers Release Date: 06.19.07 Label: Solid State

Ever feel like hardcore and metal music has become too whiney? Do you sometimes feel like revolting against the trend? If so, August Burns Red’s new album Messengers is in stores now. When I fi rst got this CD I was expecting to hear another screamo band singing about losing their high school sweetheart and the fear of never being able to fi nd love again. What I got instead was an awakening of a metal beast in my spirit that had been slumbering for the past couple of years. I found a young hardcore band from Lancaster, PA who really knows how to rock. This CD is full of great riffs and powerful break- downs, all perfectly played at the right time. This is August Burns Red’s sophomore release and it has everything you would expect from a hardcore album and a little bit more. If you are looking for a CD with hard songs that have pretty singing in the middle, then this is not the disc for you. However, if what you’re looking for is something that will make your ears start moshing with your brain, then this is what you’ve been craving in these emo-infested times. The band sets the tone with ‘Truth of a Liar,’ where 2 seconds into the song vocalist Jake Luhrs put out this scream that sounds like a mixture between a jaguar and a dying dragon and then goes down to deep roar. Another one of my personal favorites is ‘Black Sheep,’ which sounds like music from the point-of-view of a manic depressive. It starts off with what sounds like bunnies on crack with instruments, and suddenly slows down into a dark metal meditation jam. ‘The Balance’ has a good combination of nice melodic guitar riffs and then it explodes with some extremely powerful breakdowns. Is there such thing as a good metal or punk album without speaking out about what is wrong with America? ‘An American Dream’ is that song. With its anthem-like sound and strong lyrics about what is wrong with the modern American mentality, this song makes you want to stand up and protest something. Messengers is eleven tracks of full power and I recommend it to anybody who enjoys a little metal in their diets. It’s got good music and stirring lyrics, the perfect combination to take over the world. Be sure to check out August Burns Red live with Unearth at Freebird on Sunday, September 30th. - BY RICHARD ABRAHAMSON

32 september 27-october 3, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper upcoming up and cummer’s concerts Fusebox Funk Oct. 5, Freebird Live, 246-2473 Angie Stone Oct. 6, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 Boys Like Girls Oct. 6, Freebird Live, 246-2473 David Dondero Oct.7, Cafe Eleven, 469-9311 fashion forward Sean Kingston w/Shop Boyz & Fabolous Oct. 7, UFN Arena, 620-2460 Tea Leaf Green Oct. 9. Freebird Live, 246-2473 Bonde Do Role Oct. 10, TSI, 424-3531 Jacksonville’s coming up Dirty Dozen Brass Band Oct. 11, Freebird Live, 246-2473 Sinbad October 12, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 Thee Crucials Oct. 12, Club TSI, 424-3531 BY HILARY JOHNSON [email protected] Clint Black October 13, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 Oct. 13, Freebird Live, 246-2473 mission. The white and beige room was a perfect Michael Franti & Spearhead October 13, Cafe Eleven, 469-9311 fi t for the show, elegantly and simply displaying the John Gorka looks as various boutiques around town strutted the Gregg Allman Oct. 14, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 runway in some of the feature lines available at their Dennis DeYoung Oct. 19, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 stores. Olympic medalist Shannon Miller and her Medeski Martin & Wood Oct. 19, Freebird Live, 246-2473 husband John Falconetti emceed the show. The Hives Oct. 19, Jack Rabbits, 398-7496 “Our catwalk is very unconventional and it’s Alice in Chains Oct. 19, Plush, 743-1845 great,” said Anjna Chauhan, P.A, this year’s Presi- Little Richard Sat, Oct.20, St. Augustine Amphitheatre, 353-3309 dent of Up and Cummers. “We have butcher paper from Love Brigade collection Blues Traveler Oct. 20, Freebird Live, 246-2473 that is laid out. It was actually a recommendation by Natalie Cole Oct. 20, Lazzara Performance Hall , UNF Fine our feature designer Love Brigade, a terrifi c idea [to realized the two would go great together.” Arts Center, 620-2878 put the runway in] the shape of a triangle. It’s a very That they did. Overstated peacock hairstyles Acoustic Alchemy Oct. 23, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 interactive stage.” The eye level correspondence and sequined face make-up in purples, golds and The Samples Oct. 23, Freebird Live, 246-2473 between the audience and the models puts the blues signifi ed the beginning of the show. The looks Evanescence Oct. 25, Jacksonville Arena, 353-3303 focus on the fashion, allowing people to take in the were edgy and mod, with a reinvented square v- MagnoliaFest with Toots & The Maytals, Donna the Buffalo, entirety of the outfi ts. neck, bold colors and inimitable, angular hemlines. Railroad Earth, The Duhks, Bobby Lee Rodgers Band and more October 25–28, Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park, Local Boutique Edge City featured two different The brazen looks were some of the sexiest outfi ts Live Oak, Florida, www.magmusic.com styles on the runway through a number of different Jacksonville has seen in a long time, so reveal- Sam Bush, Jerry Douglas and Edgar Meyer Oct. 25, Florida looks. The fi rst was a set of black and white outfi ts ing with still so many secrets. The audience was Theatre, 355-2787 that maintained the boutique’s funky fl are through hushed through the entire line, except for the oc- Corey Smith Oct. 26, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 exotic and outrageous jewelry. The second was a casional outburst of “oohs” and “ahhs.” It was hard Nada Surf, Sea Wolf October 27, Cafe Eleven, 469-9311 vibrantly colorful set, while all were distinguishable to imagine that such exaggerated and extravagant Monotonix Oct. 28, Club TSI, 424-3531 by the lavish fl ower hairpieces on all of their mod- looks could have originated within Jacksonville’s Benise “Nights of Fire” Oct. 29, Times Union Center, 632-3373 els. Oct. 30, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 Clover offered Kings of Leon a more fashionable, Allison Press and Fall Out Boy, Gym Class Heroes, Plain White T’s, Cute Is a dress from Jaffy’s What We Aim For Oct. 30, Jacksonville Arena, 353-3309 sophisticated look Alyssa Key from Love Brigade Dr. Dog, Delta Spirit, Emily Lacy October 30, Cafe Eleven, 469-9311 If high fashion was ever to visit Jacksonville, with colorful skirts Ben Harper Nov. 1, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 this is about as close as it’s come. On September and elegant tops. Nov. 1, Freebird Live, 246-2473 21, 2007 the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens House of Kilroy Reverend Horton Heat/Hank Williams III Nov. 2, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 hosted their third annual Up and Cummer’s Fashion presented looks of D.L. Hughley Forward event. bohemian casual Widespread Panic November 4, Times Union Center, 353-3309 This year’s event coincided with the Joseph and vintage chic for Trans-Siberian Orchestra Nov. 5, Jacksonville Arena, 353-3309 Jeffers Dodge Exhibit lasting from October through the women, as well David Bazan Nov. 6, Cafe Eleven, 469-9311 February. Dodge was once the director of the Cum- as a men’s line that Badfi sh Nov. 6, Freebird Live, 246-2473 mer Museum from 1962 through 1972. The exhibit featured handmade- Classic Albums Live - Pink Floyd’s The Wall Nov. 7, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 aims to focus on his achievements as a painter, his in-house boot/shoe Tallyrand Music Festival W/Spoon, Keller Williams, The style of uniquely realistic oil paintings of still lifes covers coupled with Bravery, Pepper, Against Me!, The Polyphonic Spress, Rooney and more Nov. 10, Metro Park and nudes that maintain a deep personal connection splatter-painted um- Nov. 10, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 and symbolism. brellas. Some might Dan Zanes Nov. 12, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 The American theme set forth through Dodge’s have found the looks Nickel Creek work was refl ected in the choice of theme for this unconventional, but Bob Weir and Ratdog Nov. 14, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 year’s fashion forward event of the Big Apple. And that is what New Cartel Nov. 14, Freebird Live, 246-2473 much like Dodge’s deep connection to Jacksonville, York fashion is all Wiggles Nov. 15, Jacksonville Arena, 353-3309 Love Brigade, the event’s featured New York City de- about. Slightly Stoopid Nov. 15, Freebird Live, 246-2473 sign fi rm, boasts three of their four head designers Modelcitizen’s Spill Canvas Nov. 17, Jack Rabbits, 398-7496 as Jacksonville Natives. looks were very rocker chic along with Harper Rose, city limits. ZoSo Nov. 23, Freebird Live, 246-2473 “Three of us are from Jacksonville, but we all while Jaffi ’s promoted more of an L.A. sophisticated “It feels good to be home,” said Press. “Jack- Jucifer Nov. 23, Jack Rabbits, 398-7496 met in New York,” says Tinypants, aka Chris Dang, look with mini-dresses and stylish tops. Carla Shoes sonville is my hometown and it’s cool to still be able Zoso Nov. 24, Freebird Live, 246-2473 one of Love Brigade’s top offi cers. “It was like des- and Thomas Fine Shoes provided the newest styles to do stuff here even though we are in New York.” Lalah Hathaway Nov. 24, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 tiny,” he said, laughing. in footwear fashions through stylish fl ats and bold The Up and Cummer’s Fashion Forward event The Electric Six Nov. 24, Jack Rabbits, 398-7496 The event began with a VIP Reception, featur- printed heels. Petal, Reve, Rosie True and Wardrobe showcased the amount of talent and creativity avail- Wynonna Nov. 30, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 ing food from local restaurants Aurathai, Biscotti’s, Therapy also provided looks that were fashionably able throughout Jacksonville. Through the delicious Dec. 4, Jack Rabbits, 398-7496 Brick, Casbah, Mossfi re, Preservation Chop House, chic with a hipster edge. food, the glamorous setting, and the extravagant Col Bruce & The Quark Alliance Dec. 6, Freebird Live, 246-2473 Publix and Sekisui. The Grotto provided free wine Finally, Love Bridage’s models started to looks featured in the show, Jacksonville proved it Keith Urban December 7, Jacksonville Arena, 353-3309 beverages and Anthony’s Catering provided ad- make their way down the runway in their Fall 2007 has more to offer than one might expect. Not only David Wilcox Dec. 8, Cafe Eleven, 469-9311 ditional beverage selections. Gift Bags were handed Egyptian Rave line. “When coming up with this line, was this a venue for Jacksonville’s up and coming Rev. Billy Wirtz Dec. 9, Cafe Eleven, 469-9311 out to all the VIP members, including funky jewelry we were looking at what inspired us,” said Allison talent to come together and showcase itself, but it The Avett Brothers Dec. 9, Freebird Live, 246-2473 and fragrant gift samples. Smaller gift bags of Press, one of the feature designers with Love Bri- also made it clear that Jacksonville is coming up Dec.11, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 M&M’s were also handed out as a sweet treat. gade. “We realized there was a new wave vibe on on a new time as well. Look out for more of this Jethro Tull Dec. 14, Freebird Live, 246-2473 The fashion show was featured in two por- the music side of things, and had been inspired by elegance and edge in the future. There is plenty for Johnny Winter tions, separated by a champagne and dessert inter- an Egyptian exhibit we had seen in a museum and the choosing. Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi Dec. 27, Florida Theatre, 355-2787

eujacksonville.com | september 27-october 3, 2007 33 ent American communities, and the content will be art events directed by the people living in those communities. New This Week npr’s american idol “I think way too long we’ve been governed by fear, so what this show is all about is looking for Five JU Student Artists the light, you know? Not being governed by that Gallery’s 5th Anniversary and Fundraiser for JU October 1 – 27 fear anymore. In every episode we would go to a Artist Reception October 12, 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm Al Letson may be the next Ira Glass different city in a different state and look at that Eclectic Galleries, 2405 3rd Street South, Jacksonville Beach city’s artistic and cultural happenings, but we also 904-247-3750 or eclecticgalleries.com do two stories, and those stories evolve around two topics: bringing people together and pulling people Peace Mural Exhibition BY JON BOSWORTH [email protected] University of North Florida- Fine Arts Center apart.” September 30 – October 6 (904) 620-1899 “Those two voices in my head, the voice of subsequently wrote Griot, Chalk, and Julius X. But He calls it a “feel good show” because it ‘go get it,’ and the voice of family, they actually he wasn’t fixed to the local stage, he was invited celebrates the parts of a community that make it Beaches Art Walk work together in this weird dance. My teacher/ to the legendary Fringe Festival in New York City to different. His objective is to highlight something First Tuesday of each month from 5 pm – 8 pm coach, Barbara, taught me early on that acting is perform just last year. He is currently getting that benefits a community and embraces that com- 9 varied venues. jaxbeachesartwalk.org Griot about setting perimeters and doing whatever you prepared to bring Julius X to a local stage. munity’s diversity, and then to address something Downtown Art Walk want within those perimeters. That’s a good exam- Few people work harder at their craft, and that is pulling the very same community apart. First Wednesday of each month from 5 pm – 9 pm ple of how I do my art and my life. I’m setting up even less are able to maintain creativity in so many “In seeing how people are being pulled apart A map of the galleries can be acquired at any of the venues, these perimeters, and then I’m free to do whatever different directions at once, but his wife is sup- we can see better how we can bring people back including MOCA Jacksonville, the , and I need to. I’m going to make my living as an artist portive and his children adore him, so he pushes together. I’m just going to go into a community and Art Walk Headquarters at 100 North and make my art pay the bills.” on toward that success that may just lay waiting for try to find the stories. What’s different about my Al Letson is a poet, an actor, a writer, a film- him inside of a publicly owned radio studio. show than probably anything NPR does now is that Ongoing maker, and very possibly the next big thing on NPR. It may seem like an unlikely time for such a my show is asking for listeners and people from all Not WJCT, but NATIONAL Public Radio. He is cur- creative and aspiring personality like Al Letson to over to get involved in it. If you have an interesting My Florida: John Wilton exhibit Through September 30 Thrasher-Horne Center, 283 College Drive, Orange Park rently one of the top ten finalists in a contest NPR head toward radio, the one medium that he hasn’t story about your city or you think a show should (904) 276-6815 has been fielding online called Public Radio Talent already achieved some modicum of success in, but take place in your city, then cool. Give us a holler. Quest (publicradioquest.com); a sort of American for Al it means making something great for an insti- Tell us about your story. We’ll post it on the website Art at the Airport Idol for a more intellectual set. The grand prize of tution he truly respects. and we’ll either hook you up with a producer who Beginnings: Work by David and Kay Olson the contest is ten thousand dollars toward produc- “I am not an fan at all…but I will help you produce the piece or we’ll get the affil- Through September 28 American Idol Haskell Gallery at Jacksonville International Airport, 2400 ing a radio pilot of the show you would bring to Googled American Idol and one of the things that iate to do the piece or we’ll come out there and do Yankee Clipper Drive. (904) 741-3546. jiaarts.org NPR. Al Letson is taking this opportunity. This isn’t popped up was ‘NPR’s American Idol.’ I’m a big it… What that does is bring the audience into the the first time he has jumped at an opportunity that NPR nut, so I clicked on it and it took me to the process of creating the show. I think that NPR can Katie Day & Ashley Hazen Through September 30 most people would consider a long shot, and if he contest and that was the first I heard of it.” be too insular and not really go outside of itself.” Classis Blends, 201 W King Street, St. Augustine wins, it also wouldn’t be the first time that Al suc- So did thousands of other people. 1400 of Al’s primary goal is to help America escape ceeded when most people would have thought it them became contestants and there have been vari- the homogeny of our corporate existence and find a Our World: Photographs by John Reed Through September 30 unlikely at best. ous rounds of challenges and eliminations. Users way back to our communities. Rather than always Thrasher-Horne Center, 283 College Drive, Orange Park Al started doing poetry slams back when he of NPR’s website have been the ones voting and listening to radio and television that is crafted by (904) 276-6815 was working for American Airlines. The job allowed judging for the prospective radio host they like the international corporations to appeal to the general him to travel all over the place, doing a poetry slam best. audience to serve national advertisers, he wants to Ron Burns: The Road to Recovery in New York one day, Colorado the next, and then “I had it set as a bookmark on my web remind listeners that their local community is the Benefi ting the Jacksonville Humane Society and their rebuilding efforts . Through September 30 Texas. He ranked third in the nation in 2000, but he browser, and then the day I went and erased the lifeblood of this nation. Nothing is more important R. Roberts Gallery, 3606 St. Johns Avenue, Avondale didn’t want to spend the rest of his life going city bookmark, I was thinking ‘well, that didn’t happen.’ to the well-being of our society than maintaining (904) 388-1188 to city to read a three-minute poem. After all, Al is Ten minutes later they called me and I was a top our individual and distinct communities. married with children. But the poetry slams did give ten finalist.” “I guess to sum it up, the goal is to show that Southern Sunday Arts Revival him some worthwhile things to put on his resume. Now that Al has made it to the final five, he is your neighbor is just like you and where they’re Featuring Atlanta artists George Long, Jesse Cregar, Mario Namely from HBO. preparing for the best possible scenario. different; we can find strength in those differences. Schambon, Scott Pethia and Tindel-Michi Through September 30 “I have conflicting feelings about Def Poetry. “As I’ve made it past each round I’ve been I just feel like the country has been so polarized The Gallery At Screen Arts, 228 W. King Street, St. Augustine I think it’s great because it definitely helps people thinking ‘this might happen.’ So I’ve been develop- in the last eight years, and so this show is trying (904) 829-2838 or (800) 826-4649 or screenartsfl orida.com understand exactly what it is you do. Before Def ing a game plan.” to bring that back by showing people in Idaho that Poetry, I would tell people that I was a performance The concept behind the show that Al wants people in Florida are just like them. We have the Elemental Atmospheres: Paintings by Princess Simpson poet and a playwright and they would have this look to create is much more than just a radio show. same wants, the same desires, and when we’re Rashid Through September 30 The Museum of Science & History (904) 396-7062 on their face, like a big question mark. But now, Although Talk of the Nation and The Diane Rehm different, it’s a good thing.” because of Def Poetry on HBO, everyone knows.” Show include callers in the discussion, they are Go to publicradioquest.com to listen to Al’s Portent, I said Portent Through September 30 So he moved on to writing plays and eventu- only voices and the only involvement the general submissions and place your vote for who you think Pedestrian Projects, 1535 San Marco Boulevard, San Marco ally landed on his one-man show public can have on these shows (assuming they should be the next NPR radio host. (904) 859-8281 or thepedestrian.org Essential Person- To fi nd out why nel. That show got him a commission which led are even able to get through as callers or noticed as Al Letson didn’t make the cut on Fox’s On the Lot, Bogda September Show Through September 30 to more commissions for his unique type of work. emailers) is to address the topics that the host and his dyslexia or the details of the fi rst episode of Bogda, 1253 McDuff Avenue South, Riverside Al became a sort of local, live-on-stage auteur, the guests bring to the table. Al’s show, which will State of the Re:Union, read the entire interview (904) 387-0852 writing, directing and starring in his own work. He be called State of the Re:Union, will be about differ- at eujacksonville.com.

Louise Freshman Brown Through October 5 University Gallery at the University of North Florida, 1 UNF Drive, Jacksonville (904) 620-2534

An Exploration of the Nature of Place by Sarah Crooks Flaire Through October 6 Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, 2445 San Diego Road, Jacksonville 904-346-5620

Flora, Fauna, and Fine Art Presented by the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens and Fogle Fine Art Featuring Craig Bone, Olivia Marie Braida Chiusano, Laurin McCracken, Carmen Lagos and John Reed. Through October 13. Fogle Fine Art, 3312 Beach Boulevard (904) 296-1414 or foglefi neart.com

Kurt Polkey & Morrison Pierce: Dreaming of Black Mountain Through October 14 Opening Reception Saturday, September 22, 6 pm – 9 pm Jane Gray Gallery, 643 Edison Avenue, Riverside (904) 338-5790 or janegraygallery.com

34 september 27-october 3, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper sampling of what came between Billie and Badu. Instead, the musical part of the show focused culture & arts solely on these two mavens of song. That being said, Joy Dennis (as Billie Holiday) SEPTEMBER with her beauty of bygone times and the grace- 27-28 Manhattan Short Film Festival Shands, Jax fully statuesque yet earthy Akia McDaniels (as 27-29 “Cinderella” , Orange Park Erykah Badu) truly captured the spirit in song of Orange Park Community Theatre these fine ladies. 27-29 From The New World-JSO Performing Arts Center, Jax It makes sense that the two should be paired, 27-29 “Cabaret” Players by the Sea, Jax Beach since the neo-soul music of Erykah Badu has 27-30 Exhibit-Artist Ron Burns To Benefi t Humane Society R. often been compared to Billie Holiday. Badu, Roberts Gallery, Jax like Holiday, represents the forefront of strong 27-30 Elemental Atmospheres Paintings By Princess Simpson female soul music. Both women have been Rashid MOSH, Jax brave, unafraid to use their music to speak of the troubles they’ve known through the emotion 27-30 Exhibit: William Newby New Works in Oil Energy Lab Art Gallery, St. Augustine of their music. There was as much theatre in the introduc- 27-OCT. 6 A Midsummer Nights Dream Theatre Jax, Jax tions to the songs as there was in the songs. 27-OCT. 7 Steel Magnolia’s Alhambra Dinner Theatre, Jax Each song was prefaced by a bit of history 27-OCT. 14 381 Days: The Montgomery Bus Boycott Story and sometimes about what connected the two Ritz Theatre, Jax artists. The audience learned that when Billie 27-OCT. 14 Dinosaurs & Ice Age Mammals MOSH, Jax Holiday sang ‘Moonlight in Vermont,’ it was not without a sense of irony, since she sang 27-OCT. 19 Exhibit: Recent Works By John Bunker & Suzanne of a romance that would only be accessible to Magee Stellers Gallery, Neptune Beach white people. It wasn’t in the program, but Joy 27-OCT. 27 Mystery Dinner Theatre Dave & Buster’s, Jax Dennis, as Billie, sang the song Holiday is most 27-NOV. 4 The Cummer Is…Photographs By Ingrid Damiani known for—‘Strange Fruit.’ Cummer Museum, Jax An artist accompanied the spoken word po- 27-JAN. 6 Sculptor: Minoru Ohira Exhibit MOCA, Jax etry, performed with soul by Bridgette Hogan as she painted to the poetry. Other performances 27-FEB. 28 Oh Say Can You See: American Art Cummer Museum, Jax included a monologue piece from Gene Holliman about meeting the great Billie Holiday when he 28 Nightowl Cinema-The Sand Lot The Amphitheatre, St. Augustine was a boy and a dance performance by Kerri- 28-NOV. 9 Tricking Fish: How & Why Lures Work Exhibit The Ann Prescod (representing Billie) and Henry Lighthouse, St. Augustine Barton. 29 River City Showdown-FSU vs. Alabama Jax Stadium, Jax Between the two acts, patrons got the chance 29 Dog Days in the Park-entertainment, Food, Games Klutho Park, Jax to peruse art on the walls, in particular the strik- ing art of Denise Cooper. Out in the lobby, folks 29 Fiesta De Santa Maria Downtown, Fernandina Beach could buy CDs of other Nokturnal Escape artists 29 Experimental Painting with Instructor Kim Barry MOCA, Jax (such as Tony White aka T-76) and clothing 30 Supper with the Spirits Dinner & Show Old St. Augustine from Two and Fro Clothing. They also munched Village, St. Augustine on cheesecake bites provided by Sweet Truth 30 Valuistic Printing: Printmaking MOCA, Jax catering. The heart and soul of Nockturnal Escape, 30 The Mountain of Peace Musical UNF Lazzara Hall, Jax Emanuel Washington, hinted that this produc- 30 Open Casting Call “Recount” Jewish Community Center, Jax tion of was just a beginning. nokturnal escape From Billie to Badu 30-OCT. 6 Peace Mural Exhibition UNF Fine Arts Center, Jax The hope is that the show can be done again, tweaked according to what worked and what didn’t and depending on what venues they’ll be OCTOBER playing in the future. Despite losing Boomtown 1 Lecture Series-Lois Simon-Anyone Can Paint Cultural as a venue, they’re definitely still quite a cre- Center, Ponte Vedra ative force here in Jacksonville. still thrives 1 Auditions: “Gift of the Magi” 7pm Theatre St. Augustine The I sat in the audience wishing there was more Amphitheatre, St. Augustine of a diverse audience to enjoy this superb 1 John Muir-A Celebration of his Life Library, Ponte Vedra showcase of music. Not because I felt uncom- From Billie to Badu by erin thursby fortable in a room mostly full of black people, 3 First Wednesday Art Walk Various Venues/Downtown, Jax but because I felt that others were missing out 3-4 Echo Boom UNF Fine Arts Center, Jax on something beautiful, passionate and progres- 4 Film Screening: The End of Suburbia Fuel Coffehouse, Jax WHAT: From Billie to Badu power of black women in music. sive. The music and the soul that comes with it One thing about the show that surprised me can belong to all of us— black, white or otherwise, 4-6 First Coast Classic Dancesport Championship World Golf WHERE: Karpeles Manuscript Musuem Village, St. Augustine WHEN: September 29th at 8pm was that Billie Holiday and Erykah Badu were the if we’ll just step out of our box and listen. 4-7 Fall Home & Patio Show , Jax only people it focused on. Because it was Billie TO See the second performance of Billie to Badu Prime Osborn Center Nokturnal Escape has lost their home in the Badu, I expected a progression of singers and a this Saturday at the Karpeles. 4-7 Amelia Island Book Festival Various Venues, Amelia Island basement of Boomtown, but that doesn’t mean 4-28 “Frankenstein” Limelight Theatre, St. Augustine they aren’t still performing soul fulfilling jazz, 4-NOV. 7 Edifi ce Beautiful Emposition – Exhibit by Patrick Miko R&B and spoken-word poetry. They’ve been find- JU Gallery, Jax ing alternate locales in which to entertain, like Mongo’s Downtown (where they’ve traditionally 5 First Friday Art Walk Various Venues, St. Augustine held their after-parties), and the Karpeles Museum, 5 Filmscreening: The Power of Forgiveness WJCT, Jax where they last held From Billie to Badu this June, 5 Intercollegiate Choral Festival UNF Lazzara Hall, Jax in honor of Black Music Month. 5 First Fridays in Five Points , Jax Love for the music and black culture always Five Points shines through, and it helps that they’re a talented 5-6 Irish Enchantment-JSO w/Cherish The Ladies Performing group. The lighting might not always be great, and Arts Center, Jax once in a while there’s bump in the production, but 5-27 Tactile Art Show Art Association, St. Augustine they make up for it with sheer musical chops and a 6 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk Seawalk passion for what they do. The show was as much Pavilion, Jax Beach a celebration of Black Music Month as it was of the

eujacksonville.com | september 27-october 3, 2007 35 photo by Michael A. Eaddy reveals an interesting twist to the plot. In the middle The play deals with child abuse, or the po- is Sister James, who likes and wants to support the tential for child abuse, a topic that has very much priest, but lives in fear of the wrath of Sister Aloy- been in the news and one that has certainly brought sius. changes in our society. I recently read that the num- That is as far as I will take you into the plot, ber of men going into the teaching profession has and actually, the way the play is constructed, any dropped signifi cantly recently, due to the fear of conclusions are for you to decide. (Yes, go with dealing with children and having interactions that friends, since you will certainly have a lively discus- could be misinterpreted. sion after the show). Doubt reminded me very much of the play As directed by a Hippodrome founder, Mary Proof. There is some humor, but both plays are Haush, the three actors give masterful performanc- challenging to audiences as they command your es, and I could not imagine it being done any better absolute attention and both amply reward you. on Broadway. If you’re an avid theatre buff, I hope that you Scenic Designer Carlos Francisco Asse is will reward yourself with a trip to the Hipp sometime back at the Hippodrome. After being here for l5 during the 2007-2008 season. Check them out on years, he spent several years designing for other the web at thehipp.org. theatres in the state and nationwide. His set is drop- If you are looking for some lighter fare, mark dead gorgeous, with a garden featuring a statue of October l9th, when Night of the Living Dead opens St. Francis and the stone walls of the church, as and runs through November 11th. If you’re dying for well as the principal’s offi ce. a laugh, check it out. doubt: a parable Hippodrome theatre review BY DICK KEREKES [email protected] Gainesville’s Hippodrome State Theatre only black student in the school. Sister Aloysius opened its 35th season with John Patrick Shanley’s (brilliantly portrayed by Sara Morsey) is the school Doubt, a Pulitzer Prize winner that also garnered principal and a strict disciplinarian, who dislikes seven Tony Awards, including Best Play. This play ballpoint pens, Christmas pageants, and clergy who closes Sunday September 30th. All performances get too friendly with their parishioners and students. are in downtown Gainesville at 25 SE 2nd Place. Sister Aloysius dislikes Father Flynn (Michael The Hipp, as it is known in Gainesville, is a Stewart Allen) the parish priest. Sister James (Kate professional equity theatre. It has access to top New Kertez) relates an incident to the principal where York plays more quickly than community groups. Father Flynn had a counseling session with Donald, Although the Hipp does a variety of plays, it excels a l2-year-old student, and Donald emerged from at intimate plays where the words are important, the meeting seemingly disturbed and with the smell but so are gestures, glances, sighs and the smallest of alcohol on his breath. Sister Aloysius becomes movements to advance the plot as well as the char- suspicious and believes Father Flynn has behaved acters. inappropriately, and not for the fi rst time. Doubt is just such a play. Set in a New York The principal begins a relentless attack on the Catholic school in l964, it is about a priest that may priest. The investigation has Donald’s mother sum- be carrying on an improper relationship with the moned to the school. The mother (Alecia Robinson)

36 september 27-october 3, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper Maybe California should change their slogan to “The Land of the Crazy.” I remember one day at work, sitting on the brittle gray-blue carpet on my boss’s offi ce fl oor. My legs were crossed beneath me Indian style as my hands rested on my knees, palms up. “Now feel your cord go down through the fl oors of the building, all nine of them,” my boss said in a soft hum. “All the way down, down through the concrete.” I wondered where was she taking us this time. She guided my mental extension cord all the way down to my own little core of the Earth. I saw the fl ashing neon lights that read “HILARY” with little arrows pointing to an ugly Lazy Boy recliner and a little outlet sitting atop the brown center of the earth. I plugged in my cord, per my boss’ request. I have never been one to underestimate the power of crazy. To me, this world seems impossible inside the four walls of an offi ce, a stale conversation, or an attempt to be normal. I have understood all my life that normal just doesn’t exist. This however, was something else entirely. Did my mental core really include a recliner and fl ashing neon signs? Out in California, I had somehow landed a semi-respectable position as a marketing assistant for an employment law fi rm. It seemed normal enough. I had my own offi ce. I had to wear nice clothes and couldn’t even participate in casual Friday. I learned employment law as if it were the back of my hand, and could spout off people’s rights at a moment’s notice. But what might have otherwise terrifi ed me in what I consider to be a suffocating lifestyle, turned out to be too crazy even for me. Was it really pos- sible that someone would trust me with the laws of the United States Government? “Okay, now where were we?” she asked, smiling at me triumphantly. We had been in the middle of a meeting. I’d gotten distracted, needing to recharge. Clearly, it had been time to meditate, and this was not an uncommon venture. One morning, months later, my boss stormed through our offi ce, tears streaming out of her eyes, screaming, “I’m outta here! He’s driven me insane!” referring to the owner of the company. As if it were something unachievably hard to do. I helped her pack up her boxes, told her I thought she had made a great decision to leave her well-paying job when she was a single mom with two young girls to raise and no prospect of future employment. I was lying. Sometimes crazy can go a bit too far. But there was something inside her crazy behavior. While it was maddening at times to deal with, she left me with the knowledge that a sense of self is more important than anything else in your life. She knew who she was, and she never made any apologies for it. Sometimes things didn’t always work out, but to her, that was just the price you pay for personal power. For the fi ve weeks after my boss quit, my coworker and I managed ourselves. Eventually, another boss arrived, this time a guy of a whole different breed. He opined on our choice of clothing every day and “complimented” the outfi ts he liked. One day he walked into the offi ce, grabbed my co-workers purse and threw it on the fl oor. “You better keep that purse closed,” he screamed. “Why,” she asked, surprised by his sudden outburst. “Because you might have underwear in there!” The look on our faces was baffl ed at best, although fearful and disturbed were not far off. He was a different kind of crazy. I was suddenly missing the days of crazy tarot and chakra alignment. I started shutting my offi ce door more and more, trying to block out the awkward, uncomfortable world that I lived in day in and day out. I felt imprisoned. There are all kinds of crazy in the world. Some kinds of crazy are good. They open your mind to things that might make you uncomfortable but can give you a sense of freedom you would not oth- erwise have. Other kinds are bad– the killing kind, the abusive kind, the awkward and alienating kind. Each of us has a little in us, either way. California seemed especially keen on it and not afraid to show it, even if it was the bad kind. Trust me, there was plenty of it to go around. But in some ways, it’s one of the things I miss most about the place. Here in the South, we keep our crazy hidden. It’s just not proper. We turn a blind eye or change the conversation when someone does something weird or talks about uncomfortable subjects. That’s not to say I want to go back to the world I left behind. It was a nice visit that made for some nice stories, but I want to wear my crazy with a little more pride. Maybe that’s what I’m doing right now. I’m showing you my crazy. I promise not to bring it out too often, for everyone’s sake. But it’s there in all of us. We should be proud to say we’re crazy. It’s what makes us worth telling about.

eujacksonville.com | september 27-october 3, 2007 37 netscapades THE by brenton crozier JOCK the blog edition by tom weppel I know, I know, enough with the blogs already. Everybody and their brother has a blog. “Hey man, check out my blog,” is the new “Look at these pictures of my kids.” Blogs have become instruments of bit- ter backbiting, political pugilism, information portals for the most obscure subjects, and a venue for Todd, the offi ce guy with the disaffected demeanor, to write about how Incubus sold out and how they were cool as hell when he caught them that time in a local dive bar before they got all big and everyone started lik- ing them. Have no fear, I policed my selections and discarded the duds, the dead ends, and of course, the Todds.

JAGUARS Coach Nick Saban, and so we shall see how things passiveaggressivenotes.com After a fairly solid win against the Broncos, the pay out downtown in No-Name Stadium. Jaguars are off for the week. This is a very early date Meanwhile, the Gators come off a not-so-easy Ah, there is no method like the passive aggressive method. This site is absolutely, positively one of to receive a bye, but that’s the way the schedule rolls, win against the Ole Miss Rebels by hosting the Auburn the funniest I’ve come across in a long time. You can agree with me if you want, but it’s totally up to you, my friends. Tigers, a team that has a tough season so far, with even though it really is hilarious. Passive aggressive notes from coworkers, roommates, neighbors, and After three weeks, the Jaguars really haven’t home losses against South Florida and Mississippi even strangers are submitted by recipients that are fed up of with that guy or girl who has an undying devo- established an identity or personality. We still don’t re- State. We have seen Tim Tebow continue to display tion to post-it notes and sharpies. ally know what kind of team the fans have to cheer for. his wares as Gator QB. The fans are infatuated with As you can probably guess, a majority of the notes revolve around dishes, stolen food items, and It can be a very frustrating feeling, to be sure. Will we the guy. Reports are that he simply cannot walk bathroom cleanliness. There is a wide spectrum and breakdown of the passive aggressive method found see more of the grinding, running game we saw work around campus unattended anymore, as he must have in Denver, or are we gonna’ go with a mediocre pass- some type of security to escort him to class. on the site. Notes range from the completely furious and fantastically sarcastic to last ditch desperation and ing game? Will turnovers continue to plague David And so Florida will have a test on their hands the archetypal Offi ce Space clones. Garrard and the offense, or will they be able to fi nish with Auburn, which is trying to get their act back to- The best is when a good back-and-forth is featured. One good exchange was a mini post-it note battle off drives with scores? gether in the SEC. It should be an entertaining contest. in the fridge from Lindsay in Burbank. She did not appreciate someone eating her sushi and wanted to get And are we ever gonna’ get more out of Jack In other games, Georgia will host the Ole Miss to the bottom of it with her note asking, “Who is the asshole who keeps eating the Trader Joe’s sushi in Del Rio? It seems the guy almost has no personality at Rebels, while Davidson comes into town to play the the fridge?” The retort was another post-it stuck to the bottom of the fi rst asking, “Who is the asshole who all. He does not come out with anything of signifi cance JU Dolphins, a team looking for their second home win keeps leaving such delicious sushi in the fridge?” during his press conferences, and his style is very of the season. Nationally, the winless Notre Dame Irish My absolute favorite is the prolifi c Hot Pocket series. Apparently, there is a lot of Hot Pocket thievery close to the vest, compared to his playing days, when (not Fighting this season!) go to Purdue, where they going on across the country and an equal amount of passive aggressive note writing in response. The tone he was a little brasher, fl ying off the handle to tackle will probably take their fi fth loss of the year. Charlie does not change from note to note, and pretty much states, “Dear Hot Pocket Thief! Stop stealing it’s wrong opponents as a Linebacker in the League. Weis and his mates have to be totally reeling. We shall see what the rest of the season has – and I’m hungry with no lunch!!! Thanks.” in store for us, when the Jags hit the road again after Do you have that passive aggressive coworker or roommate? You no longer need to feel alone and MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL their off-week, when they go to Kansas City. This is the last week of the season before the can even exact some revenge with the help from your hilarious friends at passiveaggressivenotes.com, if playoffs begin. The American League teams are pretty that’s what you want to do. THE OTHER THIRTY-ONE much set, with Boston, Cleveland, the Angels, and the There is no question the dominant team in the Yankees ready to go. hurtyelbow.com NFL is the New England Patriots. They have simply But in the National League, it’s taken these last taken care of business with no problem against their games to fi gure out who gets to play in the postsea- Once you get over the clunky fi rst three opponents, and they will most likely do the son. All three Division races have become tough, with name, you are sure to appreciate the same when they go to Cincinnati on Sunday night. the Mets and Phillies in the East, the Cubs and Brew- The Pats have a veteran team that is fi ring on ers in the Central, and the Padres and D-backs in the fantastically written and hilarious con- all cylinders with no problem. And while the Colts, West. From there, SOMEONE has to be the Wildcard tent of hurtyelbow.com. Somewhere Cowboys, and Packers are all sitting nicely at 3-0, I entry, so, it should be quite interesting to see who between The Onion and Andy Rooney believe it’s New England that is simply THE team to plays when the dust settles on Sunday. (if he were actually clever), lies the beat for the rest of the season. Unless, of course, hilarious musings about everything injuries come into play, which is always a possibility in NASCAR from the topical to the absurd. From the NFL. After a wild, bumper-car race in Dover, the boys The 5 Stages of “Hey There Delilah” Meanwhile, the Falcons, Bills, Dolphins and head out to Kansas City to race on another fairly ob- an account of the Plain White T’s Rams are not playing so hot at 0-3. All four teams scure track in their march for the Chase. muse and her frustration with the have had struggles each week, and it has made things While twelve drivers and their teams go after a infamy brought by the song to Pixar cumbersome for each franchise. This week, the Fal- championship, the other 31 drivers on the track are cons host the upstart Texans, the Bills host the Jets, simply there to win the race. It almost goes against Plagiarism: Same Movie, Different the ‘Fins host the Raiders, and the Rams go to Dallas. matters, in a way. It makes it possible for a car at the Clothes a column explaining the for- So plan on St. Louis being 0-4 without question, while end of a race to take somebody out if they don’t like mula Pixar employs for every single movie they make. You can even create your own Pixar blockbuster by the other three have a decent shot at winning their fi rst. them, and they have nothing to lose or gain, for all fi lling in the blanks: “______is about the secret world of ______but in the end, it’s intents. about the importance of friendship.” COLLEGE FOOTBALL Following the Chase during a race can also be The Not Cute Enough report features animals and events that are simply not cute enough. Not Cute Oh, my! Is THIS a weekend for college football a complicated experience. To try and keep track of Enough recipients have included bubonic marmots, rabies, and wiener gluttony. Additionally, there are a or what! who’s won how many laps, and who has how many number of amusing images and riotous videos on the site. Here in town, the Florida State Seminoles are points can get crazy. There are a number of comedic sources online, but most of them are simply unfunny and tedious. coming to play the Alabama Crimson Tide. If you don’t And while that news should rule the racing Hurtyelbow.com is clever at every turn, and written in an unassuming air that seems to be novel among think there’s gonna’ be about 85,000 wild fans around headlines, it isn’t. Most race fans are talking about here, combined from both sides, you’re nuts! This will Dale Earnhardt, Jr. and his going with #88 to drive in bloggers having a go at humor. These are the types of stories that your coworkers and friends will actually trump the past ten Florida/Georgia crowds, EASILY, his new ride, sponsored by Mountain Dew and their appreciate you sending them and not begin marking your e-mails as spam. simply because of the excitement by both school con- energy drink, known as AMP. That change, along with Passiveaggressivenotes.com was passed on to me by a coworker and hurtyelbow.com found by fol- tingents and the hype surrounding the game. many others for next year, should make things ex- lowing a series of links. There are probably millions of blogs and most of them are rubbish, but you may be Alabama native Bobby Bowden will try and tremely interesting for the 2008 season. lucky enough to unearth a gem that just may fi nd its way to being one of your “Favorites” recipients. Blog beat the Tide, a team that is smarting a little from their Tom Weppel talks trash with Greg Larson, Lon- on I say to the blogging faithful, but don’t send me your damn URL. home OT loss last weekend to the Georgia Bulldogs. nie Marts, Eugene Chung, Artis Gilmore, and Ron Obviously, this will be a big game for ‘Bama Head Duguay on SportsAvengers.com 24/7.

38 september 27-october 3, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper nascar news & notes BY RICHARD TEAGUE [email protected] G’day, howya’ goin’ mates? After all the times for him. I have mentioned my good friend, or rather mate, On Friday I took him around to meet all of Pete as well as the lovely Deb, his wife, who live in my friends and see where I work. Ann took Deb off Australia, many of you know about them by now. I shopping, which is what wives do when their hus- want to share a great experience I had this weekend. bands hang out together, isn’t it? Saturday I drove First I might need to give my newer readers a little them down to Jax Beach and then, via the Mayport background on Pete. I met him during an auction Ferry and A1A, we went up to Fernandina Beach. for a Kenny Schrader #33 Skoal car I had sold him Now did you people know that there are no Outback in June of 2003. Now I have sold a ton of things on Steakhouses in OZ (that’s what Australians call their eBay before and since that auction, but never have country) so we went there to have dinner and to try I continued communications with a buyer as I have and fi nd an Aussie that might work there. No blokes done with Pete. from OZ, just good food and no rules or worries. For the fi rst several months we both learned I have been leading up to the race on Sunday. about each other. We learned what sports we liked, When you are a NASCAR fan and ya’ got buds that what towns we lived in, about our families and so are fans too, y’all gather on race day to watch the much other stuff. When I found out he was just race on TV. It is lonely watching a race without your two weeks younger than me and had a great wife, buds and I get tired and sleepy when that happens. kids and grandchildren, I knew we were going to be This was going to be the fi rst race Pete and I had “mates” as the Aussies say (good buds, as we call watched together. I have watched hundreds of races them here in the South). I found out later that he and with my best bud John (y’all should know John Deb come to the States about every other year to go from my articles) and I said, “wouldn’t it be Great to NHRA drag races, which gave me the thought that for the three of us to do the Dover race?” Then John this was my chance to meet them in person. In the could meet Pete. fall of 2004 I fl ew to Chicago to see this bloke I had John cooked some slabs of ribs and I got the been emailing and talking to on the phone. When I rest of the fi xins. We all worked together on a big arrived at our hotel and saw them in the lobby, I just appetite. Well, the ladies watched the race for a knew it was them. I felt like I had known them for a while, even longer than I thought they would, and hundred years. they dang sure ate their share, just like I fi gured they There was only one problem between me and would. Then it got down to the three of us guys in Pete and that was that I could hardly understand a front of the new 42-inch wide screen, continuing blooming word he spoke, whereas Deb was born in to eat and talking racin’. When you can sit there England and had nice English. Pete seemed to have and share thoughts about what’s happening during the same trouble with my Southern speech, so I a race instead of talking to yourself, it can be so fi gured I should talk more Aussie and he should talk much fun and so many other things. For instance more Southern. Three years later, we still fake the in Australia, Pete says that they don’t have the Aussie & Southern accent, but we understand each commercials on TV like we get here, they get other other just perfect. Well, that is as long as he talks stuff or cut back to the race with no dialogue. Heck, loud enough so that I can hear him (I’m on the hard- sometimes the clips between laps can be award- of-hearing side, but my wife Ann says I just don’t winning and also keep ya’ awake. pay attention. Hmm, I think she’s right sometimes.) Can you believe that Pete ain’t ever seen one Whatever it is, we communicate pretty good. of those Kasey Kahne ones with the three girls? Or Back to my story and how things lead up to a NAPA Genie making 50,000 fi lters appear and the this weekend here at home; a couple of years later, 3 of us couldn’t fi gure out Dale wanting a monkey? I in the spring of 2006, I fl ew to Portland, Oregon, thought he enjoyed the commercials as much as he where Pete and Deb came for another visit to see did the race. He commented on almost every one. the drag races in Las Vegas. They take 4 or 5 weeks Because we all had different drivers we liked, he off at a time and plan a vacation around a big NHRA had plenty to say about mine and John’s guys. But race and then see the sights of our country. They we couldn’t talk about Pete’s driver, he was busy have been doing this for many years now. Over the polishing Jeff’s car. Yeah, his guy is Ward Burton, last three years or so we have become even better but if Wardie would have been in it we sure could friends through emails, phone calls, and a couple have given him what for. You see, that is a big part of visits where we share pictures of our homes, of NASCAR, either go to the races with your friends families and the cities we live in. They have sent or just sit around the tube, share food and talk bad me pictures of beautiful places in Australia, which about the other guy’s drivers (not meaning it at all, makes me want to visit the country so bad, and I just messing with your buds). sent them pictures of me in front of a brand new That’s what friendships should really be about. Super Wal-Mart and inside gathering up diecast Even if ya’ don’t see them all the time, you know cars (which Pete can’t do there, no Wallys). they are there. You can call or email the ones on the This year they decided to come to Florida to other side of the world, or just stop by after work visit us and then go on their walkabout (actually and see how they’re doing. You know that old say- a ride-about) to see the east coast of the US and ing about keep your friends close and your enemies end up in Richmond for a big national NHRA race. closer, that’s BS. You need to keep your friends as For months before they got here, we talked about close as you can, because as life goes on, you will the things we would do here and all of the places always have them, but your enemies will go away. we could go, including the Wallys and the good ole Well Pete and Deb are leaving on their trek Monday, Southern eating establishments we have here, then and I will miss them like the moon would miss the we planned on watching the race at Monster Mile stars, but we have already started thinking about on Sunday. Finally, Thursday got here and you just where we can meet in a year or so. don’t know how nice it was to see them and start Well y’all know about tinynascars@yahoo. right in sharing things I had gathered for them and com, that’s where I am anytime ya’ need me, and them for us. Pete had brought me Australian cur- I bet y’all also know that, If it ain’t NASCAR, It ain’t rency and I had tons of diecast, T-shirts and hats s**t!! G’Day Mates!

eujacksonville.com | september 27-october 3, 2007 39