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LATEST BAVPA ALUMNI NEWS AND UPDATES
The BAVPA Beacon alumni newsletter is sad to report the passing of BAVPA alumna/ film and TV actress, DIANE GAIDRY. The BAVPA alumni, staff, faculty and friends offer our condolences to the GAIDRY family and they are in our thoughts and prayers. BuffaloNews.com memoriam:https://buffalonews.com/2019/02/08/diane-gaidry-walker-54-local-life-coach-and-star-of-loving-annabelle/.
Educator, Saxophonist and Composer JAMES BRANDON LEWIS (2001) performs with and Val Jeanty Duo, JP Schlegelmilch Jonathan Goldberger, Jim Black, Anteloper (Jaime Branch & Jason Nazary ) at Nublu ( http://nublu.net/ ) in NYC March 5 at 8PM; Lewis performs with Ches Smith at The Stone ( http://thestonenyc.com/ ) in NYC March 7 at 8:30PM:http://www.jblewis.com/.
RollinStone.com article, Song You Need to Know: James Brandon Lewis, Sir Real Denard:https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music- news/james-brandon-lewis-jazz-sir-real-denard-ornette-coleman-790305/.
Lewis’ CD, An Unruly Manifesto ( https://jamesbrandonlewis.bandcamp.com/releases ) is available for purchase.
SomethingElseReviews.com review of An Unruly Manifesto:http://somethingelsereviews.com/2019/01/23/james-brandon-lewis-an-unruly- manifesto-2019/.
VICTORIA PEREZ (1997) is the Co-Founder and Artistic Director of Raices Theatre Company (www.raicestheatrecompany.com), SMIRNA MERCEDES-PEREZ (1992) and LISETTE DEJESUS are RTC members. RTC presents Desde El Puente April 19-May 5. BroadwayWorld.com article about the Raices’ 2018-2019 season (https://www.broadwayworld.com/buffalo/article/Races-Theatre-Company-Announces-2018-19- Season-Including-Musical-Version-Of-DESDE-EL-PUENTE-20181103) for tickets and information, go to theatre’s link.
The Raíces Theatre Company is the 2019 recipient of an Erie County Community Arts Grant, offered through the Arts Services Initiative of WNY in partnership with the NYC Council on the Arts Decentralization Grant Program. WNYPapers.com article about the grant, https://www.wnypapers.com/news/article/current/2019/02/04/135821/arts-services-initiative-of-western-new-york-awards-120000-plus-in- funding-to-artists-organizations?fbclid=IwAR37oWq4jsk8_DaeJI-_pV8JgsFY4hDcop-tJBojXWNbL_W03CLuaTf9tLg.
Children Book Author KEITH WHITE JR. (1999), latest publications Captain Collin and The Andrew Avenger Return: A Color-With-Me Adventure and Ace Reporter Andrew: A Color-With-Me Adventure are available for publish. For more information about White’s other works, go to https://www.amazon.com/Keith-White-Jr./e/B00C MHA1AS/ref=dp_byline_cont_book_1.
2017 Occhimagazine.com interview with White who talks his children’s books. : https://occhimagazine.com/keith-white-jr-talks-adhd/.
BRADON MCDONALD (1993) created costumes for the upcoming Jessica Lang dance program at Hammer Theatre ( https://hammertheatre.com/ ) in San Jose, NM February 23 at 7:30PM. For tickets,go to theatre’s link. BroadwayWorld.com article:https://www.broadwayworld.com/san-francisco/article/ Hammer-Theatre-in- San-Jose- Announces-Spring-2019-Season-20190130.
McDonald will create costumes for the Utah Opera (http://www.utahopera.org/ ) Vincenzo Bellini’s opera, Norma to be semi-staged at Abravanel Hall in May 2019 while the Capitol Theatre undergoes renovations. SaltLakeCity.com article, Fall in love with Opera: Utah Opera’s stunning 2018-19 line up: https://www.saltlakemagazine.com/fall-love-opera-utah-operas-stunning-2018-19-line/.
SCOTT “GUS” POITRAS (1992) is a production carpenter in the new Broadway musical comedy, The Prom: https://theprommusical.com/.
The Prom celebrated its 100th show February 14. Playbill.com article:http://www.playbill.com/article/see-the-prom-celebrate-100- performances-on-broadway.
Tony Awards eligibility determined for The Prom news. TheatreMania.com article, https://www.theatermania.com/broadway/news/tony- eligibility-2019_87619.html.
The Prom musical related news, register for the 2019 Broadway Teachers Workshop ( http://www.broadwayteachinggroup.com/ ) for more information, go to link. BroadwayWorld.com article:https://www.broadwayworld.com/article/Broadway-Opens-Its-Doors-To-Theatre-Teachers- At-The-2019-Broadway-Teachers-Workshop-20181202.
Poitras is the Head Carpenter of the Broadway musical, The Band’s Visit on stage now at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre. Official website: http://thebandsvisitmusical.com.
ReligionNews.com article, The Band’s Visit is a dream:https://religionnews.com/2019/02/12/the-bands-visit-grammy/.
The Band's Visit wins Best Musical Theater Album at the 61st annual Grammy Awards February 10. Grammy.com article, https://www.grammy.com/grammys/news/bands-visit-wins-best-musical-theater-album-2019-grammys.
The 10-time Tony Award winning musical The Band's Visit will end their Broadway run April 7. BroadwayWorld.com article, https://www.broadway.com/buzz/190168/10-time-tony-winner-the-bands-visit-announces-final-performance-on- broadway/?fbclid=IwAR2D8t5ihi25W5fvDj-T_mS3IGkQ1IgqMsNLY4GifHL670oE3BKhuq3Bjw0.
Tony Award winner Katrina Lenk and former Band’s Visit cast member George Abud will team up for their new show, Swung, an evening of jazz, bebop, and standards, at Birdland March 4 at 7 PM. Playbill.com article:http://www.playbill.com/article/the-bands-visit-tony-winner- katrina-lenk-and-george-abud-will-play-birdland.
Katrina Lenk performed her mesmerizing Omar Sharif song from The Band’s Visit on the February 7 episode of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, on the tails of the announcement of the show’s spring closing. Playbill.com article:http://www.playbill.com/article/watch-the- bands-visit-star-katrina-lenk-sing-omar-sharif-on-the-tonight-show.
The Band’s Visit celebrated its 500th performance January 20. BroadwayWorld.com article, https://www.broadwayworld.com/article/Photo- Flash-THE-BANDS-VISIT-Celebrates-500-Performances-on-Broadway-20190120.
BroadwayWorld.com article, Podcast: David Yazbek Talks THE BAND'S VISIT, TOOTSIE & More with Gilbert Gottfried! https://www.broadwayworld.com/article/Podcast-David-Yazbek-Talks-THE-BANDS-VISIT-TOOTSIE-More-with-Gilbert-Gottfried-20190123.
Poitras is the Advance Flyman on Sara Bareilles’ penned musical Waitress (https://waitressthemusical.com ) on Broadway at Brooks Atkinson Theater.
Will Lucie Jones be Broadway’s Waitress next Jenna? BroadwayWorld.com article:https://www.broadwayworld.com/article/Rialto-Chatter- Will-WAITRESS-Welcome-Lucie-Jones-as-Next-Jenna-20190204.
Smash alum Katharine McPhee performs in London, UK West End’s Waitress ( https://waitressthemusical.co.uk/ ) February 8-March 7.
Smash series related news, JESSE L. MARTIN (1987) portrayed Scott Welker, an artistic director of a theater company who is a potential love interest to Debra Messing's Julia in the NBC Marilyn Monroe-based musical series that aired in 2012.
LondonTheatre.co.uk/Waitress article, About bloody time’: Waitress cast on working with first all-female creative team: https://www.londontheatre.co.uk/theatre-news/west-end-features/%E2%80%98about-bloody-time%E2%80%99-waitress-cast-on-working-with- first-all-female.
BroadwayWorld.com article, Photo Flash: First Look at the WAITRESS Cast In Action!https://www.broadwayworld.com/westend/article/Photo- Flash-First-Look-at-the-WAITRESS-Cast-In-Action-20190207.
Waitress UK casting news, two young actresses selected to play Lulu in West End production. BroadwayWorld.com article: https://www.broadwayworld.com/westend/article/Two-Young-Actresses-Selected-To-Play-Lulu-In-WAITRESS-West-End-20190207.
London’s West End Waitress cast to host album karaoke sessions March 18. Playbill.com article: http://www.playbill.com/article/west-end- waitress-will-host-cast-album-karaoke-sessions.
Poitras is on the Broadway musical Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (https://beautifulonbroadway.com ) staff at Sondheim Theatre.
Playbill.com article, Watch Broadway’s Beautiful Perform a Carole King Medley on The View:http://www.playbill.com/article/watch-broadways- beautiful-perform-this-carole-king-medley-on-the-view.
Chilina Kennedy returned to Beautiful musical January 3; the musical celebrated its 5th anniversary January 12. NewYorkTheatreGuide.com article: https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/news-features/chilina-kennedy-returns-to-star-in-beautiful-the-carole-king-musical-on- broadway.
Playbill.com article, 8 Magical Moments the Cast of Broadway’ Beautiful: The Carole King Musical Will Never Forget: http://www.playbill.com/article/8-magical-moments-the-cast-of-broadway-beautiful-the-carole-king-musical-will-never-forget.
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PASTOR GARNEY DAVIS (1988) presents the Reset for My Glory gospel crusade at Sahlen Field Griffin 1 Field ( formerly Buffalo Bisons’ Coca Cola Field), August 10 10AM-5PM. Free admission; reserve tickets at https://resetformyglory.com/.
Author/ Dancer/African Drum Instructor and Educator KRISTIN CRAGE (1988) latest publication, Woman to Woman-The Conversation, Part I is available for purchase: https://www.amazon.com/Woman-Conversation-Part-I/dp/0692164618.
Woman to Woman-The Conversation, Part I Book Overview
This series is about the conversations we never had, need to have, and still can have. It’s about growing from girl to woman - living, loving and learning while finding self-worth and dignity in the face of serious setbacks and major challenges. This is the journey of releasing pain and anger, no judgment and no-holds-barred and finding the way to love. The Woman to Woman series is for every woman.
Congratulations go out to music Blanton Alspaugh for winning a Grammy award for Producer of the Year in the Classical music category; one of Alspaugh's projects was Nashville Opera's recording of ROBERT PATERSON 's (1988), Three Way Opera. VintageVinylNews.com complete Grammy winner’s list. https://www.vintagevinylnews.com/2019/02/the-winners-of-2019-grammy-awards.html. For upcoming March performances:http://robertpaterson.com/.
Tennessean.com review of Three Way:https://www.tennessean.com/story/life/arts/2017/01/27/nashville-opera-premieres-intriguing-three- way/97150652/.
BlogCritic.com article about Paterson’s Three Way opera:https://blogcritics.org/exclusive-interview-and-video-premiere-robert-paterson- composer-of-risqu-three-way-opera-with-june-nyc-premiere/.
Paterson wrote a piece called Embracing The Wind, for flute for Aureole Trio ( https://www.aureoletrio.com/ ) now available for purchase on ArkivMusic.com and Amazon.com.
Paterson and Mostly Modern Festival are accepting applications for their annual music festival, June 9-June 29 in Saratoga,FL. Submission deadline March 1. To apply, go to https://mostlymodernfestival.org/apply.
Paterson will be composer-in-residence with the Charles Ives Concert Series (http://danburymusiccentre.org/charles-ives-concert- series/), the residency will culminate in performances of selected chamber works throughout the season.
LISA VITRANO (1988) to perform in the Road Less Traveled Production’s annual fundraiser Screen to Stage, a public screenplay reading series’ The Princess Bride April 6. For tickets for the fundraiser and information, go to https://roadlesstraveledproductions.org/.
Vitrano performed in the Buffalo 48 Hour Film Festival science fiction drama short, Summer Lost; the film; winner of six 48 Hour jury awards. Summer Lost will represent Buffalo against other 48 Hour national and international film winners at Filmapalooza ( http://www.48hourfilm.com/en/filmapalooza ) in Orlando, FL March 6-9.
Singer, Multi-instrumentalist, Poet, Songwriter, Activist and Businesswoman ANI DIFRANCO’s (1987) performs at :http://anidifranco.com/.
Mitski, Julien Baker and MUNA to be featured on Bleachers' ( https://store.bleachersmusic.com ) Terrible Thrills, Vol. 3 album; the album will be released early 2019.
DiFranco’s memoir, No Walls and the Recurring Dream (https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/558143/no-walls-and-the-recurring- dream-by-ani- difranco/?ref=PRH7485D7E9F1&aid=randohouseinc3484-20&linkid=PRH7485D7E9F1 ) will be available for purchase May 7: https://www.righteousbabe.com/.
DifFranco performed on the Anaïs Mitchell’s Hadestown concept album (available now on Righteous Babe’s record label). The musical will be in previews at National's Olivier Theatre in London, UK. Hadestown ( https://www.hadestown.com/ ) is scheduled to begin performances March 22 and open April 17.
Playbill.com article, Full Cast Announced for Broadway’s Hadestown:http://www.playbill.com/article/full-cast-announced-for-broadways- hadestown.
JESSE L. MARTIN (1987) portrays Detective Joe West on the CW-TV (http://www.cwtv.com/) superhero series, The Flash. Check out other Martin related news below.
THE FLASH, RENT, SMASH/BOMBSHELL, THE LETTER CARRIER, SEXUAL HEALING FILM AND LAW & ORDER NEWS
HollywoodReporter.com article, DC TV Watch: Did 'The Flash' Reveal Season 6's Big Bad? https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/dc- tv-watch-flash-red-death-evil-batman-1181692.
The Flash renewed for 2019-2020 season. HollywoodReporter.com article, https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/cw-renews-flash- charmed-riverdale-supernatural-6-more-1181714.
Batman-news.com/Flash related article,, The Flash’s Disappearance Will Factor into Arrowverse ‘Crisis’ Crossover article:https://batman- news.com/2019/01/27/the-flashs-disappearance-will-factor-into-arrowverse-crisis-crossover/.
Heavy.com article about Martin’s return to The Flash series:https://heavy.com/entertainment/2019/01/jesse-martin-joe-west-the-flash-when- return/.
The Flash co-star Danielle Panabaker to direct upcoming episode. ComicBook.com article: https://comicbook.com/dc/2019/02/13/danielle- panabaker-the-flash-episode-518-production/.
Check out The Flash’s Gorilla Grodd vs. King Shark new promo trailer ( https://www.cbr.com/flash-gorilla-grodd-vs-king-shark-promo/) and episode synopsis:https://comicbook.com/dc/2019/02/15/the-flash-king-shark-vs-gorilla-grodd-synopsis-released/.
WeGotThisCovered.com article, Arrow May Have Spoiled An Upcoming Episode Of The Flash: https://wegotthiscovered.com/tv/arrow-spoiled- upcoming-episode-flash/.
ComicBook.com article, Arrow, The Flash, Supergirl, and Black Lightning To Air Reruns The Last Week of February: https://comicbook.com/dc/2019/02/08/arrow-the-flash-supergirl-and-black-lightning-to-air-reruns-the-/.
ScreenRant.com article, Ranked: The Fastest Speedsters On The Flash:https://screenrant.com/dceu-ranked-fastest-speedsters-flash/.
ComicBook.com/Jesse Martin’s Joe West Flash character related article, The Flash: Google Says Barry Allen Becomes Joe West in Series Description: https://comicbook.com/dc/2019/02/07/the-flash-meme-barry-allen-joe-west-google-the-cw-arrowverse/.
Martin’s Sexual Healing film/Marvin Gaye music news, Marvin Gaye's lost album You’re the Man, to be released March 29. Vibe.com article, https://www.vibe.com/2019/02/marvin-gaye-lost-album-release-date.
Marvin Gaye and Tap Dance icon Gregory Hines ( see BAVPA salute to Hines below), were honored with USPS postage stamps. NewYorkTimes.com article: https://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/ny-metro-black-history-stamps-gaye-hine-20190207-story.html.
ORIGINAL RENT BROADWAY MUSICAL STAR JERMAINE HEREDIA/CASTING NEWS FOR UPCOMING ROCHESTER NY PERFORMANCE ______
Casting male and female singers ages 12-25 to perform as soloists or in musical ensembles appearing in a professional musical theatre showcase on March 3 at 7PM featuring Tony Award winner Wilson Jermaine Heredia. Heredia won the Tony Award for his portrayal of Angel in the original 1996 Broadway cast of Rent ( Heredia appeared as Angel in the 2005 film). Singer/actors should have some experience in musical theatre (voice lessons, drama club, school musicals, summer intensives, community theatre, summer stock, college theatre, professional theatre).
The showcase to be performed at Rochester, NY beautiful Lyric Theatre, 440 East Avenue and will include performances by music soloists and ensembles. Among the contemporary musical theatre to be performed are songs from Spring Awakening, Dear Evan Hansen, Jasper in Deadland, Bare: A Pop Opera, RENT and more. Please send an email of interest to Cara D’Emanuele at [email protected] requesting information regarding how to be considered as a soloist, the 3 mandatory ensemble rehearsals, and what you/your child can expect from what will certainly be an unforgettable and inspiring experience. For tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/acting-class-with-tvfilmbroadway- actor-wilson-jermaine-heredia-tickets-54556026544?fbclid=IwAR0ZQd0dinv7fqlwe5p2SIWgNqRjBUuaSe5gKtjAHnIN2u3pl1NEnpikwKc.
Rent national tour rolls into Shea’s Performing Arts Theatre (https://www.sheas.org/ ) March 26-31, 2019. For tickets and show times, go to link.
Martin pictured right with the Larson family, original Broadway and Fox’s Rent Live! cast members
Fox-TV’s Rent Live! ( https://www.fox.com/rent/ ) aired January 27, Martin and members from the original Broadway cast appeared in the production. Variety.com article,How Fox’s Live Version of ‘Rent’ Honors and ‘Enhances’ Jonathan Larson’s Vision:https://variety.com/2019/tv/features/making-of-rent-fox-live-musical-1203105135/
Billboard.com article, The Rent Live Soundtrack Is Here:Stream it Now:https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/television/8496087/rent-live- soundtrack-stream.
Rent Live! CD review. BroadwayWorld.com article:https://www.broadwayworld.com/article/BWW-Album-Review-RENT-Original-Soundtrack- of-the-Fox-Live-Television-Event-Stumbles-and-Mostly-Falls-Flat-20190202.
HollywoodLife.com’s Rent Live! photos: https://hollywoodlife.com/pics/rent-live-photos/.
Vulture.com article, Why Isn’t Law & Order Streaming Anywhere?https://www.vulture.com/2019/01/why-law-and-order-isnt-streaming- online.html.
BAVPA ALUMNI (GRADUATION YEARS UNKNOWN) and MISCELLANEOUS NEW
BAVPA alumna BLAISE MERANDA-MERCEDES and WNY native Jairo Sanchez will appear in the American Idol audition rounds, broadcast date, TBD:https://abc.go.com/shows/american-idol.
Broadcasting.com article, American Idol Returns on ABC March 3: https://www.broadcastingcable.com/news/american-idol-returns-on-abc- march-3.
American Idol related news, Katy, Luke & Lionel Are Back! See the Official Art for the Upcoming Season of American Idol. People.com article, https://people.com/music/american-idol-season-17-official-art/.
Author A.A. LEWIS wrote the Buffalo-Based 90’s urban novel, The 716 Love & Consequences the book is available for purchase: ( https://dspublishing.net/ ),
Blues Musician LUCKY PETERSON attended BAVPA 1978-1979. Peterson ( celebrating 50 years of performing concerts worldwide), will be in concert at Espace Culturel Du Chateau des Rochers, Nogent-sur-oise, FR March 9. For other march performance dates, go to http://www.luckypeterson.com.
BAVPA FACULTY, STAFF & FRIENDS
KELLY BEUTH is a Theatre instructor at BAVPA and Subversive Theatre’s (www.subversivetheatre.org ) co-artistic director. Subversive presents After the Fall March 14-April 6, for tickets and show times, go to link.
Beuth’s also a member of the Brazened Faced Varlets Theatre Company, http://www.varlets.org/ . BFVTC presents the comedy, The Secretary March 29-April 4. For tickets and information, go to link. BuffaloRising.com article about Beuth’s Subversive past production, Slut:https://www.buffalorising.com/2019/01/medusa-undone-carefully-presents-medusas-origin-story-as-a-victim-of-sexual-assault/ .
Actor, Director and Acting Instructor JOSIE DIVINCENZO ( http://www.josiedivincenzo.com/ ) conducts Film and TV acting classes. For more information, go to link.
SAUL ELKIN is founder of the Jewish Repertory Theatre of WNY (http://jewishrepertorytheatre.com/) and Shakespeare in Delaware Park, http://shakespeareindelawarepark.org/. SDP presents The Tempest June 20-July 14 and Love Labour’s Lost July 25- August 18.
Jewish Repertory Theatre presents Talley’s Alley onstage now through -March 3. BuffaloRising.com review Talley’s Folly. BuffaloRising.com review:https://www.buffalorising.com/2019/02/talleys-folly-at-jrt/.
LORNA C. HILL directs the Buffalo State College’s Casting Hall production of Sarah DeLappe's The Wolves, opening March 7-March 16 at Buffalo State College’s ( https://theater.buffalostate.edu/2018-2019-productions ) Flexible Theater. For tickets and show times, go to link.
Hill is the founder and Artistic Director of Ujima Theatre. Ujima presents as part of their grand opening at their new location ( the former PS #77 ), Passing Strange April 26-May 19. For information, go to http://www.ujimacoinc.org/.
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SANDRA LEE FOLEY-HITCHCOCK is the creator of The BAVPA Beacon’s newsletter header, BAVPA Class of 2016 logo who also designs graphics and websites. Hitchcock designed the BAVPA 41 Years long logo honoring the past and present school colors; for more information about Hitchcock’s work, go to www.warandra- productions.com/Website_ Hosting_and_Design.html.
WHAT HAS HAPPENED
BPS Superintendent KRINER CASH at a state of the schools address held at BAVPA January 17 announced that BPS schools are in better NYS standards than they were three years ago. BuffaloNews.com article: https://buffalonews.com/2019/01/17/buffalo-schools-get-good- marks-from-state-only-2-still-on-watch-list/.
Congratulations go out to BAVPA student RAHIM DUNSTON ( third), winning 1st Place Buffalo’s 2nn annual Black History Month Oratorical competition February 13. WBFO.org article:https://news.wbfo.org/post/are-we-still-feeling-effects-slavery-buffalo-students-answer-question.
Congratulations go out BAVPA Senior Theatre Major KATARA WILLIS winning 1st place in the WNY regional August Wilson Monologue competition held at Buffalo State College February 9 and advances to the NYC national competition; BAVPA Theatre Teacher KELLY BEUTH, coached Willis. AACC.org article about the monologue competition:https://www.aaccbuffalo.org/awmc .
Congratulations go out to Team BAVPA winning the 1st annual African American History Bee at East Side High School February 9. WKBW-TV Channel 7 News report featuring BAVPA alumna and Erie County Legislator and Majority Leader, APRIL BASKIN: https://www.wkbw.com/news/local-news/black-history-month-celebrations.
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Hines with Savion Glover in Broadway’s Jelly’s Last Jam, 1992.
BAVPA ( in association with the USPS), presented Black History Program & USPS Gregory Hines Stamp Unveiling February 5; before unveiling of the postal stamp, there was a reception and exhibit inside the BAVPA Art Gallery. Buffalo News article, https://buffalonews.com/2019/02/04/photo-enlargement-of-gregory-hines-forever-stamp-to-be-offered-tuesday-at-performing- arts-high-school/.
The BAVPA musical Les Mise’rables received a Kenny Award nomination for Outstanding Musical Production. The Kenny Awards ceremony will be held at Shea’s Saturday, May 11, 2019 at 6PM. Tickets are $8.00 presale and $10.00 the day of beginning April 27; tickets may be purchased at Shea’s Ticket Office, 650 Main Street, or Ticketmaster. For more information and the nominee list, go to link. Congratulations!
CONNOR GRAHAM (2011), RON MANGUM (1988) and LISA VITRANO (1988) performed in the 2017 Irish Classical Theatre ( https://irishclassical.com/ ) comedy, Design For Living directed by Katie Mallinson. The production was mentioned in the NewYorkUpstate.com article, Buffalo's theater scene: Comedy, tragedy ... quality: https://www.newyorkupstate.com/expo/life-and- culture/g66l-2019/01/81593e62398045/buffalos-theater-scene-comedy-tragedy-quality.html?fbclid=IwAR2Z- 20l9fotvkxyKSiJM9G3D2q99UiRjaQ_qJvpkYYzE94SCLO_b5nzgq4.
Celebrity Makeup Artist SIR JOHN BARNETT (2000), was featured in the Earn the Necklace magazine article, Sir John’s Wiki: The Makeup Artist behind All the Fabulous-Looking Celebrity Ladies:https://www.earnthenecklace.com/sir-john-wiki-makeup-artist/.
LIZ MCKENDRY (1994), performed a stage reading of the play, Red Dress at Players Club ( http://www.theplayersnyc.org/ ) in NYC January 23. McKendry performed in the 2018 production at New Phoenix Theatre, https://www.newphoenixtheatre.org/.
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The USA Network spinoff TV series based on motion picture The Purge, aired in 2018 returns for a second season. DigitalSpy.com article: https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/ustv/a870464/the-purge-season-2-release-date- cast-amazon- prime-trailer-episodes/.
Past Purge film news, CLAUDINE EWING (1988) and GABRIEL ROBERE appeared in the 2018 action/sci-fi horror film, The First Purge, ( https://www.uphe.com/movies/the-first-purge ) starring Frank Grillo, Elizabeth Mitchell, Oscar winner MarisaTomei and Patch Dorragh.
Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra’s ( https://bpo.org/ ) music director and principal conductor JOANN FALETTA and music producer Tim Handley won a Best Classical Compendium Grammy for their recording , Fuchs: Piano Concerto Spiritualist, Poems Of Life, Glacier and Rush; Faletta’s a winner of three Grammy awards. DailyPress.com article: https://www.dailypress.com/news/dp-nws-falletta-grammy-0211- story.html.
WIVB-TV Channel 4 report, WATCH: JoAnn Falletta joins News 4 in studio fresh from L.A. where she accepted her third Grammy: https://www.wivb.com/news/local-news/watch-joann-falletta-joins-news-4-in-studio-fresh-from-la-where-she-accepted-her-third- grammy/1783150453?fbclid=IwAR2R--Rf5kXUR5sOredG3G9GfaDo_nh8z_oSJovN2uRS3-tP4Kl_Bvjv2hA.
Faletta is also Virginia Symphony Orchestra’s (https://virginiasymphony.org/ ) principal conductor who orchestrated the 2005 Virginia Arts Festival Midsummer Night’s Dream in conjunction with Ohio State University. RON MANGUM (1988) portrayed one of the Rude Mechanicals in the production; directed by Lesley Ferris. DailyPress.com article about the production: https://www.dailypress.com/news/dp-xpm-20050422- 2005-04-22-0504220019-story.html.
STEPHEN MCKINLEY-HENDERSON portrays in Native Son, a film adapted from Pulitzer Prize winning Richard Wright novel adapted by playwright Suzan-Lori Parks. HBO Films bought the rights to air Native Son film, broadcast date TBD. Deadline.com article: https://deadline.com/2019/01/hbo-films-native-son-sundance -film- festival-deal-a24-rashid-johnson-richard-wright-suzan-lori-parks-1202541340/.
Henderson to appear in the FX Network (https://www.fxnetworks.com/) miniseries thriller, Devs. DenofGeek.com article about Devs:https://www.denofgeek.com/us/279236/upcoming-sci-fi-fantasy-horror-tv-shows.
RUBEN SANTIAGO HUDSON directs his award-winning autobiographical play, Lackawanna Blues at Mark Taper Forum (https://www.centertheatregroup.org/) March 5- March 21 in Los Angeles, CA. Broadway.com article, LACKAWANNA BLUES Begins Rehearsals at the Taper: https://www.broadwayworld.com/los-angeles/article/LACKAWANNA-BLUES-Begins-Rehearsals -at-the-Taper-20190211.
The Broadway Theatre Project ( http://broadwaytheatreproject.com/ ) are accepting applications for their 2019 workshops; BEN VEREEN will be part of the visiting faculty team.
Application and recorded auditions deadline is March 1; to apply to become an apprentice in BTP 2019, students must complete and send an application form ( BTP website), with a recorded audition to Debra McWaters, at [email protected] .
BAVPA MUSICAL FLASHBACKS & FUTURE MAJOR MEDIA PRODUCTION NEWS
BAVPA presented the Kenny Award-nominated musical West Side Story in 2016; the original BAVPA production performed at the former Pfeifer Theatre in Buffalo’s Theatre District in 1999.
West Side Story/Steven Spielberg remake news, Rita Moreno giving tough notes on West Side Story’s script draft. VanityFair.com article: https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2019/02/rita-moreno-west-side-story-spanish-script.
JOSEPH MAHFOUD (1984) portrayed the lead role of Conrad Birdie in the BAVPA 1985 production, Bye Bye Birdie, directed by CLAUDIA MARSCHALL. The production featured JESSE L. MARTIN (1987), pictured above, played Albert Peterson ( Conrad’s record company president and informally his agent); GINA DORMER (1986) played Rosie, Peterson’s secretary (and girlfriend); JAMES WALKER (1987) portrayed Mr.McAfee; DENA MURRAY played Mrs. McAfee; CRYSTAL SYMS (1985) played Kim McAfee,JAY INGERSON (1987) played Randolph McAffee; the late KENNETH DOYLE (1987) played Hugo ( Kims’ boyfriend) and numerous BAVPA alumni; Singer, Dancer and Actor Jennifer Lopez (Co-Producer), brings Bye Bye Birdie Live! to NBC December, 2019.
Jennifer Lopez/Bye Bye Birdie/ Elvis Presley related news, Lopez performed the Elvis Presley song Heartbreak Hotel on the NBC-TV Elvis All-Star Tribute ( https://www.nbc.com/elvis-all-star-tribute ) February 17. Presley was the inspiration for the Bye Bye Birdie character, Conrad Birdie. CenterStagemag.com article:https://centerstagemag.com/article/1862/Elvis-Presley-Inspiration-For-Bye-Bye-Birdie.
TheAtlantic.com article about Jennifer Lopez’s Bye Bye Birdie production:https://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2019/01/2019-tv- preview/579196/.
Bye Bye Birdie Live/Rent Live related article, NBC axed Hair, casting doubt on the future of live TV musicals. TheatreMania.com https://www.theatermania.com/broadway/news/nbc-cuts-hair-casting-doubt-on-future-tv-musicals_87754.html.
BroadwayWorld.com article, BYE BYE BIRDIE Starring Jason Alexander and Vanessa Williams Heads to BroadwayHD: https://www.broadwayworld.com/article/BYE-BYE-BIRDIE-Starring-Jason-Alexander-and-Vanessa-Williams-Heads-to-Broadway HD-20190207.
UPCOMING BAVPA EVENTS AND HIGH SCHOOL REUNION NEWS
BPO/BAVPA Side by Side ( https://bpo.org/event/bavpa-side-by-side-concert/ ) Concert May 8 at 7PM
BAVPA Visual Arts Exhibit March 28 at 6PM ( 9-10 Grades ) and April 18 ( 7-8 Grades ) at 6PM
BAVPA presents the musical, Les Mise'rables March 27 at 9:50 AM March 28 at 9:50 AM and 7PM March 29 at 7PM March 30 at 2PM Tickets go on sale starting February 25; $3.00 tickets for students, seniors and $6.00 for adults.
The BAVPA Choir (directed by KAREN E. SAXON and GEORGE l. DVIS JR.), Frederick Law Olmsted High School and Charter School for Applied Technologies to perform at Harmonia Chamber Singers’ Rise Up! Concert at First Shiloh Baptist Church March 2 at 7:30PM. Students are invited to attend the concert;$5.00 per student. Artvoice.com article, https://artvoice.com/2019/02/18/harmonia-chamber-singers-extends- special-price-for-march-2-concert-students-invited-to-hear-concert-featuring-student-singers/#.XGwlpehKiM8.
BAVPA Winter Solofest & Piano Recital February 26 at 7 PM
BAVPA Yearbook Sale Arts Academy yearbooks are on sale for the following years while supplies last.1984,1985, 1986, 1994, 1996, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013,2014 and 2015. Yearbooks are $20.00 each or three for $50.00 and may be picked up at the school. For more information, contact Sheila at [email protected].
Call (716) 816-4220 or go to (http://www.buffaloartsacademy.org/ ) for more information.
BAVPA ALUMNI EDUCATORS
STEVE APPLER (1981), Visual Art Teacher, Amherst High School
KAREN TOMZAK (1981), Program Director of Dance at Western University, Cullowhee, North Carolina
DEBORAH LIPA-CIOTTA (1982), Tapestry Charter School, K-4 Dance Teacher
ARLENE SHORT (1982), Patient Health Navigator, Buffalo
OMAR CARTER (1984), Arts Teacher, Philadelphia, PA
CAITLIN BAUMLER-COLEMAN (1984), Tapestry Charter School, K-8, Grade ½ Teacher
TRACEY HOLT-COFIELD (1984), Principal, Tapestry Charter School, Buffalo
DONNA KERR (1984),City Honors Music, Buffalo
MICHAEL STARZYNSKI (1984), Waterfront School, 1st Grade Teacher
ARTHUR PERRY (1984), Crossing Guard, Volunteer Librarian Aid, Clear Creek Elementary School, Kileen/Temple, TX
JOSEPH MICHAEL MAHFOUD (1985), Tapestry Charter High School, Music Teacher
GEORGE DAVIS (1986), BAVPA Arts Vocal and Music Teacher
ROMONA THOMAS-REYNOLDS (1986), Principal, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Multicultural Institute, Public School #39
JAY INGERSON (1987), BAVPA Arts Theatre
JODY COVINGTON (1988), BAVPA Principal
KU’WONNA MAHONE INGRAM (1988), University of Phoenix Adjunct Instructor and Principal at Lee County Youth Development Center, AL
LISA HANNA-MATHEWS (1988), Ethics and Project Management Professor, Georgetown University and University of Maryland
HOLLY QUICKSEY (1988), Ph.D. Assistant to the Dean & Assistant Director of MECHS Programs, SUNY Buffalo State College
MARC RUMMENIE (1988), The Gow School, South Wales, NY
LESLIEANNE BIRD (1990), Teaching with Orff Music and Movement Educator, North Olmstead, OH
ORNIECE HILL ( 1990), Assistant Principal, South Park High School, Buffalo
JOSEPH MOBERLY (1991), House Electrician at Shea's Buffalo Theatre
MICHAEL WEIDRICH (1991), Executive Director, Young Audiences of WNY
SEAN CLEMENTS (1992), Bronx, NY
DAVID PATERSON (1992), Thomas Jefferson Elementary School, P.S. #22, Queens, NY
MATTHEW HURLEY (1994), Middle School Teacher, Raleigh, NC
JESSE MANK (1994), Tapestry Charter High School, English Teacher
LIZ YOUNG (1995), Professor of Graphic Design and Illustration, Pace University, NY
PATRICIA ENFIELD (1996), Elementary Education
TAMMY GAGOLA (1996), Elementary Education
NICOLE JONES (1996), BAVPA Dance
ERNEST KEEN (1996), Physical Education, Rochester
LISA SANTIAGO (1996), Vocal Music
LUCY ALTIERI (1997), Visual Arts
MICHEL DEVANS (1997), Tapestry Charter School, Buffalo
TANDY GREEN (1997), Elementary Education
EMILY BALL (1998), Manager of HEAT Center/Holistic Healing Center, Buffalo
AMANDA RAYBURG (1998), Massage Therapist at HEAT Center/Holistic Healing Center, Buffalo
PAUL M. SIEKIERSKI (1999), Music
MARIA INTORRE (2000), Elementary Charter School
DENNIS YACOBUCCI (2001), Brooklyn Special Education
CHRISTOPHER RUDROFF (2002), Music
SHAWN M. ISAACS (2004), Assistant Director of Life Residence at Alfred University
JYESHA CLARK (2005), Founder of Ms. Jye’s Music Corner
LIZ BAILEY (Unknown), Todd County Middle School, Elkton, KY
LISA BAINES-DANIELS (Unknown), BPS Adult Education Division
MICHELE DEVANS, 1st Grade Teacher Tapestry Charter School, Buffalo
DARREN BROWN (Unknown), BPS Chief of Staff, Buffalo
GINA DORMER (Unknown) Music, School #81, Buffalo
RONDA GORDON (Unknown), President of the Forsyth County Association of Educators, GA
MARIA INTORRE (Unknown), Buffalo Public School System
DAVE RIFFLE (Unknown), BAVPA Media Communication Arts Teacher
DR. TARYN SPENCER, M.D. (Unknown), UB Medical Instructor, Internal Medicine/Preventive Medic
OTHER BAVPA ALUMNI VOCATIONS
AMY (CROOKS) SCANLON (1981), Senior Lead Professional Development Trainer, MAXIMUS, Inc.
ANDY MCCLAIN (1981), Owner of Treats Unleashed, Amherst, NY
PETE GALLIVAN (1983), WGRZ-TV Channel 2 Daybreak Co-Anchor
NANCY WILLAMS-NETTLES (1984), Crisis Counselor at the YWCA of Nashville and Middle TN
UMAR ADEYOLA (1988), President and CEO, H.E.A.R.T. Foundation, Buffalo VINCENT MARASCHIELLO
KRISTIN CRAGE (1988), West African Ivory Coast Drum accompanist, Alvin Ailey School of Dance
PASTOR GARNEY DAVIS, JR. (1988), Founder of Impacting Love Global Ministries and CEO of Impacting Love, Inc.
CLAUDINE EWING (1988), WGRZ-TV Channel 2 Reporter/Fill-In Anchor
VINCENT MARASCHIELLO (1989), Systems Administrator, PureRED Integrated Marketing Atlanta, GA
STEVEN MARCHIONE (1989), Francesca’s Restaurant, Buffalo
REGINALD BURKE,SR. (1990), Founder of Bay Area Hoops, Tampa Bay, FL
CHAD JAKUBOWSKI (1991), Personal Trainer, Buffalo
STEFAN MYCHAJLIW (1991), Erie County Comptroller
JOSHUA P. SMITH, PHD (1996), Owner, Sato’s Japanese Restaurant, Buffalo
LUCILLE ALTIERI (1997), Presto Restaurant, Buffalo
KAMERON D. WOOD (2011), Director & Production Assistant
RICKY WHITCOMB (2004), Tour Manager, StarQuest International
CRAIG PRIDGEN (2002), Pastor and M&T Bank Analyst STEVE BACZKOWSKI (Unknown), Music Director, Hallwalls, Buffalo
SHANNON BARRY (Unknown), To the Pointe Dance and Pilates Center, Valencia, CA
APRIL BASKIN (Unknown), Erie County Legislator and Majority Leader
CHARLOTTE CARWELL (Unknown) Founder, P.O.C.E. Dance & Art Institute, Buffalo
LAKEISHA CARTER (Unknown), Dance Choreographer Dance Incorporated Center for the Fine & Performing Arts, Sickerfield, NJ
STEPHANIE CALHOUN (Unknown), Assistant Attorney General, NYS Office of the Attorney General
DANIELLE CATONE (Unknown), Danielle’s Dance and Fitness School
TAMMY GAVIDIN (Unknown), Dance Instructor Tonawanda Dance Arts Faculty, Tonawanda
KIMMY JANE (Unknown), Kimmy Jane Tattoo & Artwork, Buffalo
AQUIL JONES (Unknown), Videographer, Krump Dancer and Founder of Legacy Visions Production
MELODY JONES (Unknown), Audio Technician
CHANON JUDSON, Associate Artistic Director, Urban Bush Women Dance Company
GINA MARTINEZ (Unknown), Dance Instructor at Broadway Dancesations, Lutz, FL
EBONY PACE, Against Destruction Theatrically Founder
DAVID RIFFEL (Unknown), Niagara Arts & Cultural Center’s documentarian and arts collaborator, Niagara Falls, NY
KAT WHITEFIELD (Unknown), Photography Assistant at Locust Street Art, Buffalo
ELIZABETH YOUNG (Unknown), President/Creative Director at Buffalo Studio Labs, Buffalo
Please visit BAVPA Memories, a photo web site devoted to BAVPA’s past, present, and future. To follow site postings, make suggestions, or if you have questions, go to the site link (www.bavpamemories.com) and check out the BAVPA Memories PDF.
“To follow site postings, make suggestions, or if you have questions, go to the site link and check out the BAVPA Memories posting (below).”