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©'0- )NC 78 Nelson St. • Clyde, NC • www.drhighsmith.com Rapid River ® ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE Volume Eleven, Number One Established in 1997 Distributed at over 390 locations throughout eight counties in WNC and South Carolina

Publisher/Editor: Dennis Ray September Associate Publisher: Byron Belzak www.rapidrivermagazine.com Managing Editor: Beth Gossett Art Director: Dennis Ray Print Production: Simone Bouyer Inside Marketing: Dennis Ray, Byron Belzak Staff Photographer: Dennis Ray 5 Cover Haywood Arts Regional Theatre Accounting: Sharon Cole Book Editor: Beth Gossett 7 Columns Distribution: Dennis Ray Mountains of Art ...... 7 Poetry Editor: Jeff Davis Bill Walz ...... 26 Michael Clark ...... 27 Contributing Writers Byron Belzak, Sierra Bicking, 8 ART James Cassara, Michael Clark, Blue Ridge Photo Exhibit ...... 8 Lauar Colllins, Jessica Cregger, AAAC Marketing Workshop . . . . 8 Jeff Davis, Amy Downs, Grace Centre Exhibition ...... 9 Beth Gossett, Andrea Helm, New Exhibits ...... 10 Britt Kaufmann, Chip Kaufmann, Vanishing Landscape ...... 11 Danna Anderson, Dusty McNabb, A Month for CERF ...... 30 Sarah Mead, Marcianne Miller, Michael F. Parker, Dennis Ray, 12 Asheville's Willie Repoley, Kate Ryder, Festivals ...... 12 Allison Smith, Laura Tompkins, Performance ...... 25 Allen Tucker, Robert Tynes, Bill Walz, Sarah Widenhouse. 14 Music The Boatrockers ...... 13 INFO CD Reviews ...... 14 Kim Ritchey ...... 15 Rapid River Art Magazine is Choral Society ...... 17 a free monthly publication. Marching Band Festival ...... 17 Address correspondence to: Alison Brown ...... 23 [email protected] or write to: 16 Books Rapid River Art Magazine, 85 N. Main St.., 22 Dine Canton, NC 28716. Wine for Wine's Sake ...... 22 Phone: (828) 646-0071 www.rapidrivermagazine.com 26 Art of Living

All materials contained herein are owned and copyrighted by Rapid 28 What to Do Guide™ River Art Magazine and the individual Callie and Cats ...... 29 contributors unless otherwise stated. Corgi Tales ...... 29 Opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily correspond with the opinions of Rapid River Art Magazine 31 Movie Reviews or the advertisers found herein. © Rapid River Magazine, 34 Stage Preview September, 2007. Vol. 11, No. 1 Mediabear, a local Asheville firm, 36 The Greener Home provides original and local writing services to Rapid River Magazine. Cover Design: Simone Bouyer

 September 2007 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 11, No. 1 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE COVER STORY Haywood Arts Regional Theatre, Yes As is anyone who is getting paid to do what he would gladly do for free, Steven Lloyd is one happy camper. by Andrea Helm s director of the which he says is a “fairly liberal” regained momentum with an audience Haywood Arts community. “We did the Full Monty,” who needed to laugh and be uplifted. “It Regional Theatre he said, referring to a hilarious British was two weeks after 9/11, and we still had (HART) in film made into a stage play that was very an excellent response,” he said. Waynesville, Lloyd — sorry but there’s no other way to put Lloyd says the trick is to try and is currently the this — cheeky. “You have to know what schedule plays and seasons according only full-time paid you can get away with and you have to be to what will appeal to the actors and staff member at the able to determine what our neighbors will directors, as well as engage audiences. growing company. consider too risque,” Lloyd said. Other When the actors are happy and excited “I’ve created for than that, he says, “I have enormous about performing a piece, the audience myself the ideal job if you are responds to that. “I have to be someone who wants to work a salesman about it, too,” he in theater,” he said, smiling as said. “Getting this building he says it. built and turning this theater Many Buncombe County “You have to know what you can get into a success is something I theatre fans may not realize really believed in — and it’s that just 30 minutes down the away with and you have to be able easy to be a salesman if you’re road from us lies a wonderful passionate about something. hidden treasure. The to determine what our neighbors will You have to have a passion Performing Arts Center at the for it, and you have to be Shelton House, which houses consider too risque...” willing to stay where you HART, is a beautiful facility – Steven Lloyd are. In my early 30s is when constructed 10 years ago. HART has been so successful ‘HART’ continued on pg 24 that they were able to retire the mortgage on the building in just six freedom to do what I want.” There’s that years. An expansion was added in 2003, big grin again. and that debt has already been paid off, as Timing is everything in life and in well. “We earn our operating income from theater, and HART has had its share of ticket sales every year,” he said, which is bad timing. “We opened Sweeney Todd very rare in theater operations. Because two weeks after a major hurricane,” Lloyd of Waynesville’s size, about 7,000 people, said. “It’s a very dark play, and people Lloyd is able to keep his advertising just weren’t able or willing to come budget affordable. He can print 50 posters, out. People were without homes. We put them up at the library and a couple of lost $10,000 that season.” It took a year other places, and everyone in town knows to recover from the setback. From that about the next show. “The word-of- experience, Lloyd says he learned to plan mouth factor in this city is huge,” he said. for things not always going the way you Lloyd also attributes the theater’s want them to. Luckily, they performed success on continued enthusiasm and A Funny Thing Happened on the Way support from the people of Waynesville, to the Forum just 14 days after 9/11, and

Vol. 11, No. 1 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — September 2007  Have That Special Item Rapid River ® Framed While You Visit ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE With “Rafferty” th Annual Poetry Contest 11Any unpublished poem 35 lines or less is wanted! 5 Winners Prizes Include: Bob Travers Signed Print; Books from Malaprop's; CDs from Karmasonics! More Prizes to Come! Deadline December 16th. OFFERING: Expert Picture Framing Winning poems will be printed in Shadowboxes ~ Mirrors the February 2008 issue. Reading Local Artists Work fee: $5 for five poems. For more Pet Portraits by Maggie info call (828) 258-3752. 900 Hendersonville Rd. Send poems to: Suite 102 Asheville Rapid River Poetry Contest 247-5176 85 N. Main St. www.fastframeasheville.com Canton, NC 28716

THE FINE ARTS LEAGUE OF THE CAROLINAS

“committed to teaching the realist traditions of the old masters”

Announces Open Registration for the Fall Session Say hello to 35,000 September 17th - December 14th of our closest friends! Advertise with 'Rapid River Magazine' For an Application & Portfolio Review call IT WORKS JUST LIKE THAT 828.252.5050 or visit (828) 646-0071 www.fineartsleague.org www.rapidrivermagazine.com

 September 2007 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 11, No. 1 RAPID RIVER ARTS MOUNTAINS OF ART The XYZs of Asheville’s Art by Byron Belzak ver the past decade the Asheville fixture, located within the Asheville area art scene has wonderful Haywood Park Hotel. And, matured beyond any single yes, visit the nearby and totally renovated arts guru, organization, gallery Thomas Wolfe House. And if you’re or destination. Asheville has willing to head east of downtown on I-40 truly become a village of artful for about 30 minutes, exit at Old Fort and opportunities. go downtown to Main Street to have a OIt takes far more than simply an look-see of the recently expanded TAAS afternoon stroll through the Biltmore (The Appalachian Artisan Society) Gallery. House and Biltmore Village to discover TASS just had its grand opening of its fine fully what Asheville has to offer. art gallery. If you’re an artist or artisan Downtown Asheville’s array of art deco looking for “a new home,” take a gander. architectural beauties, as well as funky outdoor murals, statues and art galleries are U ... Urban Trail is something of which worth the walk. many Ashevillians are quite proud, and Last month the ABCs (from A to M understandably so. It is a wonderful to be exact) of Asheville’s art scene were walking historical tour of downtown. considered. This month we’ll take an “N V ... Vadim Bora Studio-Gallery, located through Z” look at what’s wonderful in next to the Flat Iron Building on Battery this fair city. Park, is a must-visit. Master sculptor and N ... New Morning Gallery is Asheville’s painter Vadim Bora, owner and principal most popular and successful gallery of artist, is a most interesting, worldly and fine crafts. Founded and still owned by kind soul. He hails from Russia’s Caucasus John Cram, Asheville’s best-known gallery Mountains. Asheville is proud to have an owner, it is located in Biltmore Village. artist of his high caliber. “V” is also for Bella Vista Art, located in Biltmore Village O ... Orange Peel (or “The Peel,” as its and known for its contemporary fine art. affectionately called) is known for its guest musical acts in a small venue, but its mural W ... Woolworth Walk on Haywood art - both inside and out - is outstanding. Street across from the Haywood Park A talented individual, known for painting Hotel has become one of Asheville’s great many Hollywood movie sets, did the work. and fun art destinations. Owner Scott Sirkin along with his knowledgeable staff P ... Patton ... Put the number 16 in front, display the works of scores of talented and you’ve found yourself 16 Patton, one artists. And take the time for a dog and of downtown Asheville’s finer art galleries. shake at the perfectly retro fountain. Another “find” is located diagonally across the street from 16 Patton. It is a vibrant X ... X marks the spot of so many small art gallery and seller of skateboards - no art galleries and artist’s studios that you’ll lie - known as PUSH Gallery. “P” also stumble across as you explore the nooks stands for Pack Place, located in the heart and crannies of downtown. And mark of downtown that overlooks the Vance an “X” on your map, so you can tell your obelisk monument. It’s home to Diana friends how to get back to your favorite Wortham Theatre, the Health Adventure, find. Colburn Earth Science Museum, and the Y ... YMI Cultural Center is located on Asheville Art Museum. “The Block” on Market Street. YMI is Q ... When an Ashevillian thinks of the a community-based organization and a letter “Q” he or she is likely to think first center of artistic expression. It serves as an of WCQS Public Radio, which is located educational forum for minority and low- downtown on Broadway. WCQS at income people, and to provide a greater 88.1 FM is highly regarded for its classy awareness of Asheville’s diverse cultural assortment of “classical music, NPR news heritage. In short - it’s a good place. and more.” Z ... Zone. There was once a wonderful R ... Rapid River Arts and Culture gallery and studio known as Zone One, Magazine is now in its 10th year of but we just called it The Zone. It was publishing on a monthly basis. Rapid River owned and operated by Connie Bostic is the oldest and most read arts and culture before she cashed in her chips a few years publication in the mountains. (Okay, back. Since then she’s become less of a the horn tooting is over, and thanks for businessperson and more of the artist and reading.) writer. Her “Zone” is a reminder to many of us that it was the artist who brought S ... Studio Stroll is one of the Asheville back downtown Asheville from the dark areas’ favorite arts outings. Held twice side of the moon. For that I’ll forever be a year in the River District just minutes grateful. It was the artist, many of them, from downtown, it is certainly a wonderful who, one by one, block by block, brush experience to discover some of Asheville’s by brush, made Asheville beautiful again. most innovative artists. Hats off, please. T ... True Blue Art Supplies is an – Copyright 2007 MediaBear

Vol. 11, No. 1 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — September 2007  RAPID RIVER ARTS FINE ART Blue Ridge Photography Exhibition Opens Sept. 24 he Transylvania Community calendars and local and state publications Arts Center announces the including Our State magazine. His “Blue Ridge Fine Photography award-winning photography can be Exhibition”, a juried showcase of seen in various hotels, agencies, offices, regional photography. The exhibit restaurants, and landmarks around will open Monday, September 24 Western North Carolina. and run through Friday, October Tom Nebbia, who now lives in Mills T26. The exhibition is sponsored in part River, began his career as an Army combat by Bluewood Gallery of Brevard and TC cameraman of the Korean Conflict. In Arts. 1958, he joined the staff of National Jurors will present over $2000 in Geographic. His photography has won cash awards at the awards ceremony numerous awards and has been exhibited and opening reception September 28, in museums throughout the U.S. from 5-9 p.m. at the Arts Center. The Transylvania Community Arts public is invited to attend the ceremony Center is located at 349 South Caldwell and reception and meet the artists Street, in Brevard. The gallery is open participating in the show. Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. Jeffery Miller and Tom Nebbia to 4 p.m. For more information call judged the exhibition and will exhibit Transylvania Community Arts Council at their photos as well. Hendersonville (828) 884-2787 or visit us on the web at resident Jeff Miller is well known in this www.tcarts.org. region for his beautiful images of the mountains. His work has appeared in

The Artists’ Alliance presents Marketing for Artists: Making the Web Work for You! by Laura Tompkins

re you a talented and skilled artist * Ship the product or set up the service wanting to market to a growing appointment yourself. web client base? Wondering The We Art the People Project is an how to get your merchandise on all inclusive web directory promoting the the web? The Artists Alliance alignment of the creative professionals of Seminar Series is bringing you Western North Carolina with supporting Jean Cassidy and Lee Lehman patrons, organizations, suppliers and Aof Sheville.org and Karen Hemphill of services. We aim to align and support WeArtThePeople.com. the creative community by offering a The Sheville.org mall is a place comprehensive marketing and networking for businesses to begin to build greater platform to propel its economic vitality. visibility for their products at affordable The WE ART site is a “user generated rates. They will work with any artist who content” site. This type of platform is wants to create their own web site with the latest up and coming marketing and their own domain name and advertise networking strategy on the Internet. their merchandise on the Sheville Mall. The Sheville Mall is now offering e-commerce to individual store owners where you: If you go * Have your own customized e- commerce store. Thursday, September 27th from 6-9pm at the AAAC Boardroom * Post products/services yourself. Sheville.org shows you how! Registration is $20.00 (includes catered dinner). Seminar Space is limited. * Have payments made to you through Deadline for RSVP is September 21st. Paypal or credit card. Contact and registration info contact * Have shipping costs handled and Sharon Oxendine at Mountain BizWorks prepaid online. (828) 253-2834 x28 or email Sharon * Have the monies deposited directly to [email protected] your account.

 September 2007 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 11, No. 1 RAPID RIVER ARTS FINE ART Fine Art Exhibition Returns to Grace Centre by Dusty McNabb race Centre opens its doors for and The Blind Boys of Alabama have their seventh annual Juried Fine all attracted sell-out crowds in the last Art Exhibition next month. Calls two years. The generous foyer of the for submissions to the exhibition building was designed primarily as an art have been met with a steadily gallery. The Asheville Artist’s Roundtable, growing response from Asheville Daniel Smith and Carol Bomer, have all and Hendersonville’s artist exhibited in the gallery in 2007. Gcommunities. Grace Centre is founded upon Grace Organizers of this year’s show Community Church’s commitment to expect the quality artistic expression and quantity of as a response to the submissions to again truth and beauty surpass last year’s of God. “We’re not entries. “We’ve seen a simply a church with tremendous response an ‘arts outreach’ from Asheville and ministry - this really Western North is an integral part Carolina since we of who we are as a began hosting this community. Our Juried Show. We are commitment to thrilled that artists incorporating art continue to discover in worship and in Grace Centre to be the physical space an attractive forum we gather at is to exhibit their work. something we spend Obviously there a lot of time and is a deep pool of energy with, and it’s talent in this area, obvious from the and this Exhibition minute you walk will showcase some in the door,” adds of the finest work McNabb. around,” says Dusty Artists are McNabb, Assistant limited to a Arts Director at Grace maximum of two Centre. The exhibit entries and all entries will open with a must be delivered reception Saturday, September 15th at to Grace Centre between 5 and 8 p.m. on 7:30 p.m. and run through October 16th. Thursday, September 6th, or 9 a.m. and Grace Centre is also home to 1 p.m. on Friday, September 7th. Grace Grace Community Church, founded Centre is located 3 miles west of the almost 10 years ago. The facilities were Asheville Airport, next to Asheville Land designed and constructed to serve as a Rover. space capable of hosting concerts, live This year’s juror will be Brent Everett theater and art exhibitions. The heart of Dickinson, Adjunct Professor of Art at Grace Centre is an auditorium seating the New York Center for Art and Media 750 that is fully equipped with a stage, Studies. A Best of Show award and cash lighting, superb sound and multimedia prizes will be given in this Open Themed capabilities. In recent years the stage has Exhibition. Entry forms are available been home to productions of Tartuffe, online at www.graceinfo.org. Call (828) Last Train to Nibroc, and Shadowlands. 891.2006 or (828) 684.0033 for more Concerts by David Wilcox, Phil Keaggy, information.

Our commitment to incorporating art in worship and in the physical space [where] we gather... is something we spend a lot of time and energy with...” – Dusty McNabb, Assistant Arts Director at Grace Centre

Vol. 11, No. 1 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — September 2007  RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE NEW EXHIBITS

16 Patton presents two solo exhibitions Jerry La Point: Series x 2 and Denise Stewart-Sanabria: New Produce

by Danna Anderson Jerry La Point offers a new create abstract compositions. “Still perspective with his machine form Life’s have traditionally been genre paintings and Lake Julian landscapes. paintings of domestic items and food Portions of machines create unusual often with symbolic references attached compositions and take on a special to them connected with life, death, character of their own. “I have not and survival. What I am doing is the attempted to render accurately the pure observation of edible plants and machine parts, but to imbue them how the eye perceives them in all their with some kind of life respectful of beauty as light hits them, intensifying their function” says La Point. The the color saturation. artist purposely created Lake Julian I refer to this series of paintings as landscapes on rainy, cold days. The ‘Produce Portraits.’ This is specifically atmosphere on site lent a quality of to prevent them from being labeled mystery to the lake and its park. The as “Still Life’s” which I consider an resultant plein air paintings seem seen archaic and inaccurate term for what I thru rain drizzled windows giving them am creating.” an overlay of abstraction and ambiguity. Jerry La Point: Series x 2 and With New Produce Denise Denise Stewart-Sanabria: New Produce Stewart-Sanabria presents the latest in are included in “Upcoming Shows” in the artist’s series of “Produce Portraits.” the September American Art Collector. These hyper-realistic examinations Works in both exhibitions can be of fruits and vegetables focus on the seen at www.16patton.com. way light saturates them as their forms The exhibitions run through September 30 with a reception on Saturday, September 1 from 6 - 8 p.m.

Nature Photography Exhibit at the Cradle of Forestry Thru September he Asheville Region of the Members are constantly exploring new Carolinas Nature Photographers locations and photographic techniques in Association (CNPA) is displaying an effort to capture the beauty of western an exhibit of photographs at the North Carolina. More information on Cradle of Forestry in America the CNPA is available at www.cnpa- Historic Site through September asheville.org. T30, 2007. This exhibit, entitled “The Admission to the Cradle of Forestry Beauty of Nature,” includes images of $5.00 for ages 16 and older; youth 15 mountain vistas, waterfalls, wildflowers, and under and America the Beautiful, and wildlife. Golden Age, Access, and Eagle Passport The collection illustrates the CNPA’s holders get in free. In addition to “The goal to develop a community that will Beauty of Nature” exhibit, admission celebrate the beauty of nature through includes an 18-minute film, the Forest photography while promoting an Discovery Center with 15 hands-on appreciation of nature within the region. exhibits, a scavenger hunt, a firefighting It also reflects a goal of the Cradle of helicopter simulator, historic cabins and Forestry to help connect people to the antique equipment on two paved trails, land through the arts. living history interpreters and a 1915 In pursuit of exquisite photographic Climax logging locomotive. The Cradle images, CNPA photographers have of Forestry is located on Hwy. 276 in the amassed extensive knowledge of the Pisgah National Forest, six miles north of Southern Appalachian region, including Looking Glass Falls and four miles south known and lesser-known waterfall sites, of the Blue Ridge Parkway. great locations for wildflowers, unique For more information call (828) 877- forest hikes, sensitive plant and animal 3130 or go to www.cradleofforestry.org habitats, and scenic mountain vistas.

10 September 2007 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 11, No. 1 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE FINE ART 2nd Annual ‘Vanishing Landscape’ Benefit Art Auction t is time again to join the Southern Merrimon Galleries here in Asheville and developed Appalachian Forest Coalition and our we are working together with our artists responsibly. local and sister mountain community to raise awareness and money to help Last year artists for the 2nd annual Vanishing protect our natural resources for future the Vanishing Landscape Benefit Art Auction. generations. Landscape “Clingman’s Dome” The event will be held at the Proceeds from the Vanishing Benefit raised (Photograph) by newly renovated Landscape Benefit over $5,000 John Smith IMerrimon Galleries with Art Auction at and the plenty of donated fine and Merrimon Galleries participants went home with gorgeous organic foods, wine and will significantly paintings of our Blue Ridge Mountains. It treats by local businesses. enhance the Southern was a tremendous success. The guest artists Appalachian Forest Our Southern Appalachian this year will be a group Coalition’s efforts to Mountains provide us with so much and of talented painters protect and restore is the reason so many people are moving from Full Spectrum special places in our to our area. When our region is developed Gallery outside Boulder region. Funds raised responsibly, the surrounding mountains Colorado. This gallery will help to ensure that will continue to harbor old-growth trees, in Longmont CO. will conservation efforts protect our water, provide recreation and hold their own Vanishing move forward and that shelter important wildlife All of these Landscape benefit the we are able to seize factors combined is crucial to our health, following month with important opportunities happiness and the livelihoods of our our Asheville artists for “Tree” by Robert Urban, to make a difference in communities. the same purpose. It mixed media,12" x 12" the year ahead. Your Please join Merrimon Galleries seems we are not the only participation combined and the Southern Appalachian Forest mountain community that has seen their with the strength of the Coalition will Coalition on Friday evening, September mountain sides become overdeveloped. positively affect our forests and ensure 21st at 6 pm for a fun filled event for a Full Spectrum is the sister gallery to that our landscapes are preserved and very good cause.

Grovewood Gallery and WICKWIRE Fine Art/Folk Art Join National Effort to Help Craft Artists rovewood Gallery in Asheville, sustain the careers of craft artists across and WICKWIRE will draw September and WICKWIRE fine art/folk art the United States. Since its beginnings in 7 and 21. Raffle tickets are $10 and all in Hendersonville have joined 1985, CERF has developed a well known money collected will benefit CERF’s forces with 70 craft-related reputation in the craft community for nationwide emergency relief efforts. businesses nationwide for A the unique emergency relief assistance it WICKWIRE will raffle the wheel- Month for CERF, an annual event provides to professional artists who have thrown, hand-built ceramic vessel art Gin September that raises funds for the suffered career-threatening emergencies of Judith Brater-Rose and the colorful, Craft Emergency Relief Fund (CERF). (natural disaster, fire, theft, illness and contrasting light sculptured blown art All businesses joining A Month for injury). CERF also offers information glass of Herman Leonhardt. CERF agree to make a contribution and services, workshops, and technical Grovewood will raffle a mountain share information about CERF with their assistance geared towards helping craft scape stained glass panel by Greg customers, exhibiting artists, and local artists grow their businesses and careers. Magruder and a Mustang metal sculpture community. For the last several years, by Elliot Metal Works. Both gallery participants which include galleries, managers, Shirley Palmer-Hill and online markets, show producers, and Sherry Masters, have chosen work that craft artists, have organized raffles, The galleries plan to each epitomizes the function and beauty of auctions, special sales, and other creative have 2 raffle drawings for American craft. Our staffs invite you to fundraising activities that have collectively visit WICKWIRE at 330 N. Main Street risen between $40,000 to $50,000 for chances to win handmade in Historic Downtown Hendersonville, CERF’s programs and services. crafts and other prizes. NC and Grovewood Gallery next to The “CERF is incredibly grateful that Grove Park Inn at 111 Grovewood Rd. in Grovewood Gallery and WICKWIRE Asheville, NC to enter our drawings on fine art/folk art have (once again) This is the first year WICKWIRE and these selected works $31.95 for the complete set pledged to help craft artists — our Grovewood Gallery have collaborated to For more information contact: (includes S&H) or purchase separately primary constituency and their primary join A Month for CERF. Over the years Shirley Palmer-Hill at WICKWIRE source of creative and beautiful objects they have individually raised hundreds fine art/folk art (828) 692-6222, For personalized copies — via fundraising and outreach activities of dollars for CERF and hope to exceed wickwireartgallery.com and/or Sherry call Jaileen at (828) 586-6342 on our behalf,” said Jeanne Kirby, previous goals. The galleries plan to each Masters at Grovewood Gallery, (828) CERF’s Communications and Events have 2 raffle drawings for chances to 253-7651 www.grovewood.com Coordinator. “We value our partnerships win handmade crafts and other prizes, For more information regarding with these businesses who so generously including a $100 gift card. the Craft Emergency Relief Fund and give their time, resources, and heart to The galleries will alternate their A Month for CERF, contact: Elissa serve our constituents.” Friday drawings at 5pm. Grovewood Campbell or Jeanne Kirby at (802) 229- CERF’s mission is to strengthen and Gallery will draw September 14 and 28 2306 or go to www.craftemergency.org.

Vol. 11, No. 1 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — September 2007 11 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE FESTIVALS Second Annual Carolina Mountains Literary Festival By Britt Kaufmann t’s a celebration of literature and are spread across the literacy for lovers of books and small town in galleries, reading everywhere! The annual small stores, the Town Carolina Mountains Literary Festival Center, library, and inspires people to read more, write other various venues, more, and contribute positively all within walking to society through the literary arts distance. Most activities Iby bringing together authors and avid are intentionally small readers, novice writers, and fans in small, in order to encourage intimate settings. intimate conversations The festival is held at various between authors and locations in and around Burnsville, NC, attendees. The weekend on Friday and Saturday, September 14 is packed with a variety and 15. This year’s theme, “Roots and of readings, writing Featured author John Ehle and Shelby Stephenson at the Wings,” comes from a statement by Dr. workshops, plays, 2006 Carolina Mountains Literary Festival. Ehle will once Jonas Salk: “Good parents give their seminars and other types again be featured at the festival’s Saturday Banquet. children roots and wings. Roots to know of sessions devoted to Photo by Jan Hensley. where home is, wings to fly away and writers, readers, writing, exercise what’s been taught them.” It is and the writing life. Most events are free Lane, John Maass, Myra MacPherson, the guiding vision for the 2007 Festival, of charge. Greg Massey, Karen Miller, Sheryl encouraging the study of our country’s Over 45 local and regional authors, Monks, Robert Morgan, Rob Neufeld, and our mountains’ history through North Carolina Poet Laureate Kathryn including storytellers, children’s authors, Michael Parker, Charles F. Price, Glenis fiction and non-fiction, poetry, music, Stripling Byer and Isabel Zuber (novelist novelists, historians, poets & playwrights Redmond, Pat Riviere-Seel, Preston and storytelling. and poet) both participated last year and will present. They include Lloyd Bailey, Russell, Timothy Silver, Betty Smith, Events are scheduled simultaneously will again in the 2007 festival. Photo by Charles Baxley, Bill Brooks, John Christine Swager, Peter Turchi, Kevin Jan Hensley. Buchanan, Kathryn Stripling Byer, Wayne Watson, Seabrook Wilkinson, and Isabel Caldwell, Gary Carden, Bill Carson, Zuber. Judy Carson, Jo Carson, Rick Chess, The esteemed panel of Revolutionary Dennis Conrad, Marshall DeBruhl, War scholars — both fiction and non- Abigail DeWitt, M. Scott Douglass, John fiction will also be represented. Visit the Ehle, George Ellison, Elizabeth Ellison, website for details, cmlitfest.org/revwar. Anthony Grooms, Francie Hall, Elizabeth html. building Baird Hardy, Michael Hardy, Irene Don’t miss this much-anticipated Honeycutt, Gloria Houston, Dot Jackson, annual event! Hunter James, Steven Kirk, Vicki BRIDGES Session 30 September 11 - November 6, 2007 Call for Parade Entries Nine Sessions will be held Tuesday Evenings from 7 to 9 p.m. by Sara Widenhouse oin ranks with marching bands, stilt walkers, Going Beyond Racism unicyclists, community and church groups, pageant Through Understanding & Respect winners, giant helium balloons, ballerinas, clowns, and even Santa Claus! Join Us for Compelling  J The 61st Asheville Holiday Parade is calling for Registration Presentations & Dialog! Fee 100 entertaining entries based on the theme “Building Community through Celebration”. Parade day Unitarian Universalist Church is Saturday, November 17th at 2:00 along Patton and Biltmore of Asheville ~ 1 Edwin Place Avenues, rain or shine. Register on-site September 11 at 6:30pm, Submitting an application to the parade has never been easier. Hillcrest Hi Steppas. Photo by Myron Gauger. or online at www.buildingbridges-asheville.org All the information, including rules, fees, awards (totaling For more information call (828) 777-4585 $4,000!), are available online: www. participate. The deadline for applications ashevillemerchants.com. to be received by mail is Friday, MAHEC designates this continuing education activity as meeting the criteria for .2 CEUs The Parade committee will select September 28th. For more information per session for Health Care Professionals (1.8 CEUs for all 9 sessions). the 100 most entertaining entries to contact the Parade Office (828) 251-4147.

12 September 2007 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 11, No. 1 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE NOTE WORTHY Thomas Rain Crowe and The Boatrockers Exploring Ancient Paths to the New By Jeff Davis

ometimes I wonder why I spend mix of material, some of it as ancient The lonely nights as the 14th century Iranian poet Hafez, Dreaming of a song many of whose lyric ghazals Crowe That melody haunts my reverie has translated, and as new as now, with And I am once again with you echoes of everything from Chicago blues When our love was new to New Orleans jazz and Jamaican reggae And each kiss an inspiration — including this piece, a poem, as Crowe SAh, but that was long ago says, “for voice and band”: Now my consolation Is in the stardust of a song ... The Sound of Light Music is the blood of the stars. That’s Hoagy Carmichael, of The laugh of God. course — or the lyric, at any rate, to The sound of the breath of the moon his magnificent old song, “Stardust”. In the child asleep. Carmichael was before even my time, but The sadness of the earth as it sings. I came to love his song through a version And the yawn of the that (averting eyes in embarrassment) Pat Old man as he gently dies.... Boone did back in 1958; I was fourteen, Even the ant is listening and it stayed with me. Decades later, I to the voice of the sky! could still sing my daughter to sleep to its Weaving it’s way through the grass lilting melody. In that light. The origins of music, like the origins As Eternity joins in the chorus of poetry, are buried in the dust — nay, Of day as it makes love to the night. the strata of dust- of time, but we know All mankind is singing! that they’ve been hand-in-hand, or Like gyroscopes in the blood of space. perhaps heart-to-heart, for eons. The Or luminescence on thresholds of pain. lyric voice of poetry is named for the lyre In the wind, in the trees, in the rain.... which, an age or two ago and an ocean Let the colors become the song. away, accompanied it; the term lyric Then sing! poetry has been in use in English since at Everyone is singing. Doug Shearer, an accomplished and will hit the studios of WNCW for a least 1581, and is used to denote, as the The shepherd. The clown. versatile drummer, plays everything from live version of their feature “Local Oxford English Dictionary has it, poetry The weaver and priest. the trap set typical of rock and jazz, to Color” on September 12; and will be at adapted to the lyre, meant to be sung, And the ones we can’t quite see. Middle Eastern hand drums. Originally Lenoir-Rhyne College (in Hickory) on pertaining to or characteristic of song. All singing. from Pennsylvania and New York City, September 13. For more information on Now used as the name for short poems All in the same key. he now resides in Asheville, NC. these shows, call (828) 293-9237. (whether or not intended to be sung), Nan Watkins, a piano keyboard The festivities will get under way at usually divided into stanzas or strophes, Crowe’s fellows in the Boatrockers prodigy, studied music at Oberlin College the Center at 8:00 PM. Their undertaking and directly expressing the poet’s own are an accomplished group of musicians, and the Vienna Academy of Music, and is as new as iTunes, as old as time — or thoughts or sentiments. able to blend, elegantly, the traditional with some of the best teachers in both at least our human time here on this fair It’s the voice of Shakespeare’s acoustic music of the Middle East (Iran, Europe and America. Now an electronic orb- and they’re extraordinary indeed at Sonnets, most of Keats and Shelly, Tin Iraq, Turkey, India) with the sounds of keyboard performer and composer, her what they do, so Thomas Rain Crowe Pan Alley, Irving Berlin, “I Want To Hold modern electronic technology. Chris latest solo CD, entitled The Laugharne and the Boatrockers should provide us all Your Hand”, and even Charles Olson’s Rosser, a nationally known and award- Poems, appeared on the Fern Hill an evening to remember. “The Ring Of”; so deeply imbued is it in winning singer-songwriter and string- Records label. the project of poetry in our language that instrument virtuoso, brings the voice of Sal D’Angio, an accomplished tabla If you go poets who wish to work in other modes Eastern instruments to the Boatrockers and guitar player, has studied with music eclectic mix on such instruments as sarod, still have to contend with its voice. masters in Nepal and India, and has Thomas Rain Crowe and the Boatrockers There’s something in the fusion of dotar, jumbush, sitar, and saz, as well as performed and recorded with world- words — lyrics, as we call them — and the Spanish guitar and keyboards. An music bands in both Philadelphia and Where: The Black Mountain College music that makes them more powerful, accomplished and much-sought-after Denver before joining the Boatrockers Museum + Arts Center more prone to inhere in the synapses studio musician, his solo recordings and moving to Asheville. When: Friday, September 7th, 8:00 pm where our memories dwell, than either include Archeology, The Holy Fool, and Greg Olson is a recording studio Hidden Everywhere. Admission: $8, $5 for BMCM+AC will separately. owner and accomplished recording members and students w/ID. Ever the adventurous archeologist of Wayne Kirby, a former member of engineer. As a talented guitarist, he has imagination, poet and translator Thomas the Debbie Harry-fronted band Blondie, recently released an all-instrumental CD, For more information: (828) 350-8484 Rain Crowe brings this ancient fusion has composed and performed music entitled Speaking to the Water, which was to life once again on September 7th, for both Broadway and Off-Broadway produced by legendary record producer Poet and computer consultant Jeff Davis is when Thomas Rain Crowe and The musicals, conducted small orchestras in Bill Halverson. He was a founding on the Board of the Black Mountain College Boatrockers will kick off their fall “Thief Las Vegas on its famous strip, and is an member of the world-music and reggae Museum + Arts Center. In addition to his of Words Tour” at (where else) the Black experimental electronic music composer. band One Straw, and joins Kirby as a articles for Rapid River, he also writes Mountain College Museum + Arts Currently he is a member of the cross- member of his current band, Jibblin the regularly at http://naturespoetry.blogspot. Center in downtown Asheville. genre band Jibblin the Frolines and head Frolines. com. Contact him at [email protected]. The band will be performing a of the Music Department at UNCA. After the Asheville show the band Vol. 11, No. 1 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — September 2007 13 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE MUSIC

SPINNING DISKS — SEPTEMBER CD REVIEWS BY JAMES CASSARA Whether it’s given one star or five, if it’s mentioned in this column rest assured it is worth hearing. Be sure to support any of our fine independent record shops and tell them Rapid River sent you! The Gourds with her tightly corseted dresses and Assembly of Dust dark eyeliner, but behind the façade is a Noble Creatures strikingly original sensibility that defies Recollection Yep Roc Records categorization; and comprehension, for Hybrid Recordings The self proclaimed “hillbilly that matter. Assembly of Dust’s overall blueprint scholars” of Austin, Texas are back with Imagine then this disc as an antiwar of part Lowell George-styled vocals, part their eighth full-length release. Noble protest album made up of a loosely smooth backing harmonies, and mellow Creatures finds connected song suite dealing with Mary fund arrangements — certainly pays the veteran group Todd Lincoln and her blimp armies, homage to Little Feat but there’s more at their most Fletcher Christian’s renegade son here than mere fannish imitation. Led by Call us with Your Special Orders. relaxed, which Thursday, a children’s army awaiting singer Reid Genauer the rest of the band, Fast Turnaround! can be either a air ships that never arrive, the projected keyboardist Nate Wilson, lead guitarist Overnight Delivery in most Cases. blessing or a curse. overthrow of Pitcairn Island in the South Adam Terrell, bassist John August From the Pacific, and a faux heavy metal political Leccese, and drummer Andrew Herrick Beach Boys-kissed campaign chant that states “I feel that I have concocted an “Gyroscopic” can get behind heretical ideas and make album of original a delightful them real.” material that rumination of Oh, Mary Shelley, Osama bin doesn’t explore life and love to Laden, and Saddam Hussein make cameo new territory as the Stones laden guitar orgy of “How appearances as well. In short, forget the much as rediscover Will I Shine” Noble Creatures finds the linear, rational explanations and just a few nuances we band doing what comes most natural; a bask in the audacity of it all. This is a might have missed jaunty exercise in backwoods elegance, universe all their own, and if you listen the first time beer hall poetry, and sharp, border town carefully they just might allow you a around. nomenclature. glimpse or two. Where else might you It’s a likable But there’s a frustrating glimpse of find three cellists doing their best flailing sound, though one perhaps too heavily laziness here, of a band not quite willing imitation of Metallica (as witnessed on indebted to the mellow side of the above- to push itself as hard as it should. And “Draconian Crackdown”) as Creager, named group. The harmony on songs like while such highlights as “Last Letter” and alternating between a Kate Bush coo and “Whistle Clock” is outstanding, and the “Steeple Full of Shadows” demonstrate a Robert Plant banshee wail, sings about guitar/keyboard mix adds a bright edge. continued growth and maturity by the spectacular suicide explosions. The band wisely mixes upbeat songs like time Noble Creatures fully unwinds On “We Stay Behind” she sings a “Samuel Aging” with slower, ballad-paced the bands sonic sameness becomes sorrowful dirge about a detached wooden material such as “40 Reasons,” giving wearisome: You’ve not only heard it leg that still wears a shoe. “A Retinue of Recollection a nice ebb and flow. before but you heard it three songs back. Moons/The Genauer and Wilson know how Almost fifteen years into the game Infidel Is to write catchy hooks that keep things The Gourds maintain a well deserved cult Me” is even interesting to the end. Near it’s following but if they really want to push stranger as conclusion the album takes a short break the envelope now’s the time to do so. Not she leads the from California funk with the pleasant, that they’re seeking my guidance, but band through country-flavored “The Honest Hour.” my advice is to find a producer willing a punk tango Along with producer Josh Pryor Assembly to challenge the music, making them while moaning of Dust have kept the overall production sift thru the best songs and reject the about “the simple, allowing each instrument to stand rest. Bring in some studio elements not spores of out clear and clean in the mix. While previously explored and take a few more resistance.” Recollection often holds too closely to chances. And on “Incident in a Medical Clinic” its’ sources these gents at least have the The Gourds have it in them to be she adopts the persona of the crazed wisdom to borrow from the best. *** a really good band but as it now stands Mary Todd Lincoln and sings “Quite they seem content to merely be a less unbelievably I want someone to be sweet Teddy Thompson obnoxious version of Southern Culture to me when I am in absolutely horrible Up Front and Down Low on the Skids. I for one think they deserve pain.” It gets weirder from there. better. **1/2 Oh Perilous World offers the kind Verve Records of cracked world-view that will either Given Teddy Thompson’s talent as a strike you as inspired eccentricity or songwriter and the cool, intelligent folk- Rasputina rock leanings of his first two albums, he Oh, Perilous World insufferable lunacy. In either case, it’s a wild ride made more palatable by a would hardly seem like a likely candidate Filthy Bonnet Records restless musical imagination and some to record a collection of covers, especially This wild assembly’s steam punk truly beautiful aural touches. Rasputina, one devoted to interpretations of old- approach to rock and roll — a trio of to their credit, remain in a category of school country classics made famous by cellists influenced as much by Jules Verne their own, sui generis, spinning out the likes of George Jones, Ernest Tubb, and H.G. Wells as by Marilyn Manson their inscrutable tales with crazed energy Dolly Parton and Merle Haggard. and Kronos Quartet — is so implausibly and genre-mashing abandon. It’s near But that’s just what Thompson has bizarre that were it not for the sheer impossible to describe and must be heard done with Upfront & Down Low and musicality that brims forth from within to even vaguely understand. while the arrangements occasionally refer it would be easy to overlook the band But give this an unconditional listen to the honky-tonk roots of these songs, as a novelty act. Lead cellist/songwriter/ and I guarantee you’re unlikely to find a for the most part Thompson strives to www.ArtAsheville.com absurd witch Melora Creager may play stranger — or more strangely compelling- give these tunes a fresh interpretation; the up the black queen image to the hilt, album this year. **** ‘CD’s’ continued on next pg. 14 September 2007 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 11, No. 1 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE WHAT'S HAPPENING The indefinable Kim Ritchey comes to town by James Cassara hile Ohio might not seem Bluebird Café helped to pull her contemporary country artist. The Opening for Ritchey will be like a hotbed of music-least into the singer/songwriter fold. result was mesmerizing, clearly Peter Bradley Adams, formerly of of all the type of cutting edge In 1988, Richey planted her roots her best work to date and the eastmountainsouth. country tinged with a punk Music City and began, “for the first to fully showcase the depths According to Relevant magazine, attitude that has become first time,” to really test that fold of her talents. Following the Adams makes the kind of music Kim Ritchey’s trademark- and hone her own songwriting obligatory (and perhaps ill timed) that “climbs into your subconscious Wgrowing up with an aunt who owns her craft. She built a reputation as a greatest hits collection Ritchey and refuses to leave,” producing own record shop certainly does give singer who could interpret a lyric returned to the studio last spring with the release of his latest album one a leg up. All those afternoons of and harmonize with the best of to begin working on her latest Gather Up “piano-driven tunes and digging through bins of 45s and listening them, all the while writing songs studio album. forceful polemics that will appear on a to everything she could, from Janis with an optimistic yet seasoned Produced by Giles Martin soundtrack near you very soon.” Pure Joplin to the Lovin’ Spoonful, served melancholy that was, for one so young, (The Beatles’ “Love” soundtrack), Music.com proclaims that Peter Bradley the teenage Ritchey well. It not only unusual and alluring. Before long, Chinese Boxes reveals an album of hope Adams writes provided a stellar musical education it Richey was signed to PolyGram Records, and longing, love and desire, mystery great tunes that (perhaps more importantly) provided a releasing her eponymous debut in 1995. and intrigue. Harp Magazine cited, honor the past refuse from the isolation she felt from Her next two albums, Bitter Sweet “Whatever the style, Richey’s facility while looking to her peers. and Glimmer, followed in two-year at infusing sweetness with melancholy the future. Adams’ Following a well worn path Ritchey increments. All three efforts were tagged through the combination of her singing understated, but began playing guitar during her high as contemporary country but actually and songwriting remains in tact.” No soulful vocals school years. A self admitted slow starter fell in step pretty close to the brand of Depression hailed, “No one does day allow him to write she resisted the siren call of “stardom” neo-country John Hiatt’s was making. dreamy better than Richey, whose beautiful melodies, until college, when she began playing Comparisons to Shawn Colvin have visions are enhanced by panoply of Peter Bradley without ever out more while developing her singing also run rampant over the years, due gentle and pronounced instrumental Adams sounding cloying. and performing skills. During that time to Richey’s cleverly twisting lyrical touches.” she also began writing her own songs phrases and beats. Yet working with such Such is the musical world of Kim “simply ditties that clearly showed my producers as Hugh Padgham her sound Ritchey, a world which divulges itself If you go influences” while singing harmony in has always leaned toward the pop end of not in huge leaps, but in quiet and her very first band. the spectrum. subtle footsteps. That world will be Who, when, what: Kim Ritchey and After college Ritchey caught the In 2002, casting her lot with further revealed when Ritchey makes Peter Bradley Adams at The Grey wanderlust bug, moving in relatively producer and Sheryl Crow mentor a long overdue visit to Asheville at the Eagle. Tuesday, September 18. 8pm. short order to and through Colorado, Bill Bottrell, Ritchey released Rise, a Grey Eagle. For those who love literate, $12 advance/$15 day of show. Advance Washington, South America, Boston, superb effort that more fully fleshed penetrating, and soulful sounds it is not tickets available online and at our local Europe, and occasionally Nashville. out her sound with worldly flavors of to be missed. outlets with limited seating available. Serving a stint as a cook at the fabled instrumentation atypical of a so-called

‘CD’s’ continued timeless they really are, and the other That’s the question facing the Magic away the folk, songs fare every bit as well. Numbers and their 2006 sophomore set, ramping up secret theme of this album seems to be Thompson has assembled a superb Those the Brokes, an album released the pop hooks, one songwriter paying homage to gifted band for these sessions -including his just a shade later than a year after their and even colleagues in his field. father Richard Thompson on guitar, as eponymous debut but one with not drifting into As a Brit Thompson’s voice is well as Marc Ribot, Greg Leisz and David nearly so much fanfare. white soul on essentially devoid of any southern Mansfield — along with Iris DeMent, The debut was praised for being a numbers like twang, and his phrasing owes little clear Tift Merritt and Jenni Muldaur on vocals. sweet revival of the sun-kissed sounds “Undeclared.” allegiance to But what makes Upfront & Down Low of such breezy folk-pop bands as the All of this traditional most effective is Thompson’s excellent Mamas & the Papas, a breath of fresh is a welcome country styles, choices in material, and while this doesn’t air, something that sounded like nothing development but he clearly dig especially deep into the catalog of else out there. The problem with being and makes this disc a richer listen, even understands great Nashville songwriting (nor does it celebrated for being out of fashion is if it is a bit more ragged and never quite the emotional further reveal the depth of Thompson’s that when the fashions move on and you sustains the mood the way their debut weight of the impressive talents) the eleven vintage don’t, you’re left behind wondering why did. But taken as individual songs, this songs on this numbers included here show how easy it everybody has changed — and that’s is often more appealing. It takes a bit of album, and his is to find superb material in this context, precisely what’s happened with this band. time and effort for these distinctions to performances and how striking they can be in the hands Times have changed but they sink in, since they are subtle, and subtlety allows these of a gifted interpreter. ***1/2 haven’t, at least not enough for restless is not the name of the game when a band classic tunes to be heard by fresh ears in a listeners on the prowl for something new, is passé a year after its debut. And since different context. The Magic Numbers and while Those the Brokes is actually the things that keep the Magic Numbers While you can’t take “She Thinks significantly less cloying and precious from a wider audience haven’t changed Those the Brokes than its’ overblown predecessor it isn’t — Romeo’s voice is still too thin and I Still Care” away from George Jones, EMI/Heavenly and Ernest Tubb will always be linked different enough to demonstrate any real reedy, they’re still the wimpiest band in to “Walking the Floor Over You,” In this age of the internet what artistic growth. It’s still too sweet and eons — they’re left struggling, losing their Thompson’s renditions cast them in a does the Next Big Thing do when their gentle, lacking the sly wit and sinew that audience when they’re actually turning new light, and his clear, unforced but debut is praised beyond but by the time keeps Belle & Sebastian from descending into a better, more interesting band. emotionally resonant performances offer they release their second they’re already into a sticky abyss. Perhaps a more appropriate title a striking reminder of how strong and in danger of fading from memory to be But give the band some points for might have been Them’s the Breaks. replaced by the newest Next Big Thing? trying to stretch things a bit; trimming **1/2

Vol. 11, No. 1 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — September 2007 15 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE BOOKS Jon Scieszka at Malaprop’s Saturday, September 22 by Allison Smith

on Scieszka & Lane Smith, the pair Cheese Man. Cowboy and Octopus behind The Stinky Cheese Man have started with an equally simple idea SEptember 2007 collaborated again with Cowboy — what if you made a picture book that Sunday, September 2 at 3pm: Poetrio fea- and Octopus, a picture book told in looked like a kid made it himself? turing poets Nathan Spoon, Becky Gibson, hilarious mini-episodes and illustrated Cowboy is cut out from a paper doll Tuesday, September 4 at 7pm: Author of in colorful vintage-style cut-outs, on book and Octopus from a comic book the ‘Outlander’ and ‘Lord John’ series, Diana J sale from Viking Children’s Books --- imagine a seven year old child playing Gabaldon! This special event is ticketed. September 6, 2007. Jon Scieszka and Lane with the two characters, making up stories Wednesday, September 5 at 7pm: Patricia Smith’s picture books have sold over 4 on his own. Each setting and image is all Gozemba and Karen Kahn present a slide- million copies. within this child’s world. show from their book, “Courting Equality: Jon founded GUYS READ, a If you look carefully, you’ll see that A Documentary History of America’s First program designed to increase literacy rates the two characters are always stationary; If you go Legal Same-Sex Marriages’. in boys — www.guysread.com. they are simply placed into a new Date & Time: Saturday, September 22, Friday, September 7 at 7pm: Local author Jon and Lane are often credited with environment. And that’s only one of the and outdoorswoman Danny Bernstein reviving the “fractured fairy tale” tradition secrets hidden within the pages... 7:00 PM presents her book ‘Hiking the Carolina with their much beloved The Stinky Location: Malaprops, 55 Haywood Street, Mountains’ as well as a hiking slide show. Asheville NC 28801 Saturday, September 8 at 7pm: Dave Zirin, will discuss ‘Welcome to the Terrordome: The Pain, Politics, and Promise of Sports’. Sunday, September 9 at 3pm: Sarah Innovative Business Owner Tackles His Addison Allen will discuss and sign her charming novel ‘Garden Spells’. Battle with Illiteracy by Kate Ryder Monday, September 10 at 7pm: Charles de Lint and fantasy illustrator Charles Vess. ave you ever dreamed about that you’d ever see my airplane never stated. “He is so bright and I could tell De Lint will read from and sign his new creating your own business came out of the hanger.” Stewart did not once he wrapped his mind around a rule young adult novel “Little (Grrl) Lost’. where your innovations can understand why all of the less handsomely or concept that he got it. It was exciting to Fantasy Gift Basket Raffle! make a profit? Jimmie Stewart, built airplanes were in the clouds and see his progress unfolding each week.” Thursday, September 13 at 7pm: (not to be confused with our the plane that he spent so much time on Jimmie met with his tutor two hours Anne Clinard Barnhill presents her memoir, favorite silver screen actor from constructing was never able to fly. each week for six months to work on ‘At Home in the Land of Oz: My Sister, H“The Philadelphia Story” and “It’s a Jimmie hid his disabilities for years. spelling and phonetics. “This is a bit Autism, and Me’. Wonderful Life”), from Leicester has It was undetectable to others around him ironic,” Stewart said. “All of my life I have Friday, September 14 at 7pm: Elise been living that dream. He has started that he had learning difficulties. “I learned been able to talk myself into or out of any Blackwell presents her entertaining novel Stewart Innovation’s, Inc., a company how to get around it. I knew every trick situation, but I couldn’t spell my way out ‘Grub’ about a group of young writers living specializing in equipment transportation in the book.” Jimmie used a variety of of a paper bag!” in New York City. for his son Chad’s business, a pro audio, excuses, from forgetting his reading Each year the Literacy Council Saturday, September 15 at 7pm: Greil stage, and video company called Stewart glasses to cheating on test in high school, provides instruction-by-donation to Marcus signs his book ‘The Shape of Things Sound, and he has no intention of to hide his disability. It was much later in over 300 adults like Jimmie residing in to Come, Prophesy and the American Voice’. slowing down anytime soon. Buncombe County. “This Wednesday, September 19 from 6:30- Stewart, an Erwin High opportunity to get the help 8:30pm: ‘Traveling Bonfires’ School graduate, has had that I needed has changed my a variety of experiences “This opportunity to get the help that I needed has whole way of thinking. It has Friday, September 21 at 7pm: Louise during his professional built up my confidence and Shaffer presents her novel ‘Family Acts’. changed my whole way of thinking. It has built up my career. From serving as confidence and opened the doors for me.” opened the doors for me.” Saturday, September 22 at 7pm: an auto parts salesman for As a result of his efforts Jon Scieszka signs his new picture book 29 years at Car Quest to – Jimmie Stewart, an Erwin High School graduate with Ms. Habel, Jimmie ‘Cowboy and Octopus’. working with his son, Chad has embraced his dreams to at Stewart Sound. In all of open his own business. He 55 Haywood St. Jimmie’s professional experiences he his life that Jimmie finally decided to do has constructed a truck weighing 14 tons 828-254-6734 • 800-441-9829 faced a common difficulty; His literacy something about his learning disability that combines a semi tractor trailer and a Hours: Mon-Thurs—8am-9pm skills were hindering his success as a and confessed to his employer, who in pick-up truck. The innovation helps his Fri & Sat—8am-10pm businessman. return demoted him to a menial position. son’s business by transporting the sound Sun—8am-7pm From his earliest memories of school Jimmie was then referred to the Literacy and stage equipment more effectively. he recalls how it felt to be identified Council of Buncombe County for help. Jimmie works hand-in-hand with his son as a poor speller. He remembers one “My self esteem was at an all-time at Stewart Sound and has traveled across particular time when his classroom low, but I thought that there must be the country for different events and venues created a model airport to support the a reason for this opportunity,” Stewart and has met Kevin Costner and Peter theme of spelling. Each student crafted said. It was the Literacy Council who Meyer, the lead guitarist for Jimmy Buffet. an airplane with their name on it and the detected that Jimmie had letter blindness, The future looks a little brighter for location of their airplane in the model a spelling disability. Jimmie and his advice to adult struggling airport demonstrated the grade that they Jimmie was matched with Bonnie with learning difficulties is “to realize that had received in spelling. Habel, a veteran special education teacher it is finally time to do something about “Good spellers had their planes in the who helped detect his letter blindness. it and there are places like the Literacy clouds above the airport,” Stewart said. “Jimmie is such a great example of what Council with a positive environment to “Even though I made the prettiest plane an adult learner should be,” Ms. Habel help.”

16 September 2007 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 11, No. 1 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE LOCAL MUSIC Asheville Choral Society Announces 31st Season by Allen Tucker

he Asheville Choral Society, with various stages Music Director Lenora Thom, has of physical, announced its concert offerings artistic and for the 2007-2008 season. spiritual growth Ms. Thom is known for her in people’s lives. creative programming and this Included on year is no exception. The season begins the program are Twith Wolcum, Yole! (Old English for Intimations on “Welcome, Yule!”), presented December Immortality by 8th and 9th, 2007. Texts, ancient and Gerald Finzi, modern, sacred ad secular, will celebrate Hymnus Amoris all the magic of this season. by Carl Nielsen, Lenora Thom, Asheville Choral Society Music Director “Our December concert falls early in the too, has performed with some of the finest month this year, so I and Toward an Unknown symphonies and opera companies in the thought it would be a great Region by Ralph Vaughn world, including the Boston Symphony, opportunity to present Williams. Guest artists the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Stuttgart music celebrating both for this concert are Staatsoper, and Opéra National de winter and Christmas. tenor Gregory Mercer Paris. Recognized for her remarkable We’ll perform Morten and soprano Elizabeth musicianship, Ms. Keusch is an avid Lauridsen’s Mid-Winter Keusch. champion of new music and chamber Songs, Rutter’s When Mr. Mercer has music. Icicles Hang, Henryk performed with many The season will conclude May 17th Gorecki’s Totus Tuus, of the finest opera and 18th, 2008, with the pops concert and a wonderful Gloria by companies in the Seasons of Love performed with show Randol Alan Bass. Seasonal world, including The band. Featuring songs such as “Autumn in favorites by Stroop and Metropolitan Opera, New York,“ “April in Paris,“ “September others will round out the Lyric Opera of Chicago, Song,“ “Too Darn Hot,“ “As Time program.” New York City Opera, Goes By,” and selections from Jonathan ACS will present and San Francisco Larson’s Rent, this concert promises to be Passages: Reflections on Opera. In addition, another in a series of sold-out hits. the Stages of Life, March he has appeared with For more information contact the 8th and 9th, 2008. This John Clark, an equally impressive Asheville Choral Society at (828) 299-9063 fascinating concert will Executive Director, list of orchestras and or www.ashevillechoralsociety.org. present works about the Asheville Choral Society choruses. Ms. Keusch,

Land of the Sky Marching Band Festival ‘07

osted by the Enka High School and Western Carolina props to enhance Marching Jets Band and Band University’s Pride their performance. Boosters, the Land of the Sky of the Mountains Awards are Marching Band Festival has been Marching Band presented in several held for 32 years in our former (300+ members) categories. If you stadium located at Enka Middle will be performing have been to the School. With the completion of the new in exhibition. festival before then Hhigh school stadium, the time has arrived Considering the you know what a for the festival to relocate to Enka High number of bands treat you’re in for. School. performing and the Make plans Enka Band Boosters are hard at number of volunteers now to attend this work getting ready for this year’s festival. and spectators, it is year’s Land of the Plans and preparations are being made to expected the festival Sky Marching Band accommodate the 20 or more bands from will reach in excess of Festival. It will be Western North Carolina and surrounding 2,000 attendees. held on Saturday, September 29, 2007 in areas that are expected to register and If you’ve never been to the festival the Enka High School Stadium. Visit the compete. In addition to the competing before you’ve been missing an awesome band website at www.enkaband.com for bands, the Enka Middle School 8th grade event. Bands compete in classifications more information about registered bands, band will traditionally perform The based on the number of wind and directions to the stadium, and schedule National Anthem. The Enka High School percussion players in the band. Each band of performances or contact Enka High Marching Jets Band (160+ members) has a music theme and many use field School at 670-5000.

Vol. 11, No. 1 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — September 2007 17 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE FINE ART

Glass Art Shines in Biltmore Village by Sarah Mead oday Biltmore village has several Lynette Ressler, the interior I just worry that he will stop answering galleries that feature glass art. designer at New Morning Gallery, says my phone calls because I am constantly The first All-Glass Gallery in that the gallery has been working over calling him to say another piece of his Asheville, Vitrum Glass Gallery, the last 7 years to bring unique glass has sold and we need more new pieces” was founded by Priscilla Hope lighting pieces to their gallery. They says Christin. Judson Guerard was the and was located in Biltmore have gathered together sconces, pendant coordinator for the Penland School of Village; unfortunately it was lights, chandeliers and lamps from North Craft Glass studio from 1989 to 1993. Tdestroyed in the 2004 Biltmore Village American glass artists. Once they leave His style is distinctive, and glass collectors flood. David Ross, one of the last owners New Morning Gallery, many of their who visit recognize his work. Judson is a of Vitrum Gallery, says that they carried one-of-a-kind lighting fixtures go to master of many glass art techniques and about 80 to 100 glass artists, with many of beautiful homes all over the Southeast he has several distinctive series in his New Morning Gallery, Pendant Lights them from Western North Carolina. United States. People buy their Pendant body of work, they include the “Chaos” There are presently glass lighting fixtures to series, the “River Rock” series and his three galleries in Biltmore put over their kitchen fragile but elegant “Shinyata” series. In characteristic mouth that is both raw and village that feature glass islands and Dining Rooms, addition, at Christmas time he produces primitive looking but also smooth from artists. New Morning and the unique sconces a huge variety of hand-blown Christmas sandblasting. Gallery has the biggest find their way into foyers ornaments that Christin displays on Roddy Capers is one of the glass selection of Glass art in and dining rooms. two white Christmas trees in the front artists represented by Blue Gallery. The Biltmore Village; their focus Bella Vista Art Gallery windows during the holiday season. distinguishing characteristics of many is functional art. They carry is located where Vitrum While some glass artists control pieces that Roddy produces are the bright between 85 and 95 glass Glass Gallery was located their glass piece’s shapes very tightly colors splashed on the outside of the artists, from all over North before the 2004 flood. and precisely producing pieces of thick walls and smooth sensuous lips of America, who create pieces Bella Vista’s represents engineering, Judson’s confidence with his vessels. His vessels originate as blown that can be used decorate two glass artists, Riley Art the media lets him create loose organic glass but he uses hot glass techniques as homes and living spaces. Glass Studio and Western archetypal shaped pieces, which he often well as sandblasting to bring the shapes Bella Vista Art Gallery’s North Carolina artist imbues with a warm glow by masterfully and colors out of the glass. His single focus is on original artwork Judson Guerard. Christin sandblasting selected parts of the exterior. colored pieces using jewel tones such as rather than functional art. Zelenka, the Gallery His popular “Chaos” series is blown, sapphire, garnet and emerald are striking Blue Gallery, known for Director, says that when hammered, and fused into orb-like because of their elegant simplicity and New Morning Gallery, frosty elegance. their custom gold jewelry, Pendant Light and Sconce they were designing the shapes, some has glass pieces for home gallery they put in a section completely Many national glass Artists have been décor. of hollow glass block on the north-facing round, others attracted to Western North Carolina by New Morning Gallery’s impressive wall specifically to use for highlighting partially the Penland School of Craft’s strong selection of glass includes a large variety their glass artists. “Glass art is about light, flattened like glass program. The galleries in Biltmore of Menorahs, used during the Jewish and you need good lighting to make the vases. They Village represent many of those artists. In holiday of Hanukah, perfume bottles, glass glow” says Christin. The demand often include addition, the galleries in Biltmore village earrings, glass oil lamps, goblets, vases, for their glass art has been so strong that colored and have gathered together unique glass art and a delightful collection of hand-blown Bella Vista Art is talking with three more transparent from all over the country. Original fine Christmas ornaments. They even have a national artists about representing them regions. The glass art as well as unique pieces of glass line of functional dinnerware that is made exclusively here in Asheville. whole Chaos art for you home can be found in the from recycled glass. “We are very lucky to have Judson, Judson Guerard, series has a village. Chaos Orb

UNC Asheville Art Students, Recent Graduates to Hold Annual Exhibition by Robert Tynes

orks by UNC Asheville Knight, Emily Mitchell, Samuel Owen, art students and recent Eva Reitzel, Will Rogers, Shannon graduates will be featured Rupert, Jason Sabbides, Tom Schram, in an exhibition on view Regina Shackelford, Jill Stowe and Rosella through September 8 at Streett. Works in drawing, painting, UNC Asheville’s Highsmith sculpture, ceramics, mixed media and University Union Gallery. photography will be on display. WThis third annual exhibit showcases upper-level student work produced in the last year. A closing reception will be held If you go from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, September 7, in the gallery. The Highsmith University Union Gallery Participating artists are Celeste is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays Adams, Lillian Byers, Sarah Cavaleiri, but hours are subject to change. For more Josh Copus, Jason Emory, Dawson Fogg, information, call UNC Asheville’s Art Larkin Ford, Perry Houlditch, Heather Department at (828) 251-6559.

18 September 2007 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 11, No. 1 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE FINE ART

September Art Events in Brevard

August 20 - September 14 Transylvania County. The studios will be open Saturday Sept. 29 from 10 am Quilt Dialogues / Vintage - 5 pm and on Sunday the 30th from Inspired Art Quilts 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm. Visitors can pick up a This quilt exhibition will feature brochure/map at the Chamber’s Visitor’s traditional quilts and modern art-quilt Center located on Main St. in downtown interpretations of those traditional Brevard or contact Mud Dabbers Pottery designs. Bernie Rowell to curate at (828) 884-5131 or Glass Feather Studio contemporary quilters. The Transylvania and Gardens at (828) 885-8457. Community Arts Council gallery is open Monday - Friday 10 am - 4 pm. Exhibit is FREE. For more information call (828) September 24 - October 26 884-2787 or go to www.tcarts.org. Blue Ridge AUGUST AD is black Fine Photography Exhibition September 8, 9-4 pm A juried exhibition featuring the best and white Please run Women’s Stories / in regional contemporary photography. toward front Women’s Creativity Photos will be on display from September Take a journey of the imagination 24-October 26 at the Transylvania with quilt artist, Dottie Moore at the Community Arts Council Gallery located Transylvania Community Arts Council at 349 S. Caldwell St in Brevard. The in Brevard. Engage in a day of creative gallery is open Monday-Friday from exercises and interactive discussions 10 am - 4 pm. Opening reception on celebrating women’s stories and women’s September 28 during Brevard’s 4th Friday creativity. You will take home a collage Gallery Walk. For more information call quilt of paper and fabric that incorporates (828) 884-2787 or go to www.tcarts.org. your personal symbols, themes, and metaphors. Art Quilter Dottie Moore of Saturday, October 13, 9-4 pm Rock Hill, SC, spent more than 10 years studying and documenting the stories of Workshop: women artists and their creative processes. Nature Photography with a She says, “Our lives, like artwork, are Wide-Angle Lens Advertising Made Simple: full of mystery, beauty, and surprise.” Professional photographer Don Admission is $50 for general public and McGowan will present a workshop at the $45 for TC Arts members. TC Arts is Free web links • Free ad design • Easy monthly billing Transylvania Community Arts Council Free listing of events • and much more... located at 349 S. Caldwell St in Brevard. in Brevard focused largely on creating (828) 884-2787 images using a wide-angle lens. The Advertising with Rapid River magazine allows over 35,000 people class will begin at the Arts Center with each month to know a little more about you and your business. September 28 a teaching segment on how to create wide-angle landscapes, then move into Each month we cover the best in performance Brevard’s 4th Friday an off-site photography field trip into and the visual arts of the area. Gallery Walk Transylvania County’s public lands, and Downtown Brevard invites you close with an audio/visual presentation Check out www.RapidrRiverMagazine.com for daily updates to come enjoy art, music, wine and highlighting McGowan’s work. in the Arts, Film, and Entertainment of WNC shopping as all the art galleries and If the majority of participants choose art shops stay open late from 5-9 pm. to use digital cameras, TC Arts will set up Please call (828) 646-0071 While strolling downtown enjoy the 14 a power point projector to upload images sculptures on display and stop in and Rapid River Magazine can help you! Rapid River Magazine has been a part of for a critique session of the day’s work as this community for over 10 years! have a great dinning experience at any of well. Cost for this workshop is $50. To our restaurants located in the Heart of reserve your spot in the class call TC Arts Brevard. Galleries participating include: Council at (828) 884-2787. Bluewood Gallery, Drew Deane Gallery, Gallery on Main, Hollingsworth Gallery, Jim Bob Tinsley Museum, Metro Gallery, October 26, 5-9 pm Number 7 Fine Arts & Craft Gallery, Red Wolf Gallery, Spiers Gallery of Brevard 4th Friday Gallery Walk College and Transylvania Community Enjoy art, music and wine, as the art Arts Center. For more information, galleries, shops and restaurants stay open call the Transylvania Community Arts late from 5-9 pm. Galleries participating Council at (828) 884-2787 or Blue Wood include: Bluewood Gallery, Drew Deane Gallery at (828) 883-4142. Gallery, Gallery on Main, Hollingsworth Gallery, Jim Bob Tinsley Museum, Metro Gallery, Number 7 Fine Arts & Craft September 29, 10-5 pm & Gallery, Red Wolf Gallery, Spiers Gallery September 30, 1-5 pm of Brevard College and Transylvania Community Arts Center. For more Scenic 276 South Studio Stroll information, call the Transylvania The art galleries and studios located Community Arts Council at (828) 884- on scenic 276 invite you to explore the 2787. wonderful world of art in Brevard and

Vol. 11, No. 1 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — September 2007 19 FREE!

Sunday, September 9th www.arts2people.org www.myspace.com/lexfestasheville 11am to 10pm All Local All Original presented by Haywood Arts Regional Theatre LAAFF is in its 6th year of filling up Lexington Ave in downtown Asheville for one fabulously freaky day of Jake’s Women Cabaret all local, all original entertainment, arts, and food showcasing By Neil Simon Book by Joe Masteroff the diverse and amazing talents of WNC artists. Directed by Music by John Kander öõ Bernie Hauserman Lyrics by Fred Ebb LAAFF 2007 will take place on Sunday, September 9th, the week AFTER Labor Day Weekend. From 11am- 10pm. Weekends through Directed by Charles Mills September 9 Weekends Sept. 28 – Oct. 21 LAAFF is a FREE event is fun for all ages and encourages costumes. öõ There are multiple performance areas featuring The Performing Arts Center at the Shelton House fire dancing, breakdancing, flamenco, salsa, belly dancing, reggae, bluegrass, 250 Pigeon St., Waynesville, NC | (828) 456-6322 | www.harttheatre.com rock, funk, world rhythms, jazz, trance, african drumming and dance, punk, opera, blues and the beat goes on ... öõ Street performances and interactive art areas are scattered up and down the street in between art and craft venders, local breweries, local foods, the underground art show, stuff for kids, bicycle jousting, puppetry, a record-breaking 40ft. tall bike, arts cars, dancing and LAAFFing and More!

We need volunteers! Help make the fun happen!

20 September 2007 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 11, No. 1 Vol. 11, No. 1 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — September 2007 21 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE WINE & DINE Wine for Wine’s Sake : RiverSculpture Festival 2007 : The Museum Annual by Michael Parker

French — French — wine It’s a Bordeaux wine, packaged by Trebbiano from Three Bandits for Clingman Avenue Café and Roots company is now marketing Cordier — Cordier — the Big Name $6.50, Of course I did. It was good. It (Belly of Buddha) provided very well, wine in something like a Juicy behind Chateaux Talbot and Clos des was a full liter. It was $6.50. It was not plus the Ritz across from the YMI gave a Juice carton, a sippy-cup for Jacobins, among many other notable, on a mission to deliver us from wine big tray of wings. grown-ups, with a special four- high-priced producers. snobbery. Fortunately, about a case each of holed straw with which you This is worse than when Pepsi went European marketing geniuses Yellow Sparkling Wine from Yellowglen spray down your entire palate. clear. This is worse than when MC believe that twenty and thirty- and Greg Norman Petite Sirah were Hammer did gangsta rap in a Speedo. somethings want to be hip and right- donated, plus four bottles of everyday A Oh, did someone say that in Japan now and not drinking the wine of their chardonnay. About fifty people showed you can purchase Sake from vending elders. Even here in the great land of and donated funds, and subsequently machines? Yes, I did, and that’s why I hang-ups, wine continues to recruit by emptied the bottles of sparkling and am going to Japan. And that is totally being wine. This new marketing is all petite sirah. It was a nice surprise to see different. And, it is totally different from gimmick. Respect for the traditions of the fizz be exponentially preferred over screw caps, which are fine as long as no wine making is always a better recruiter the chard. one refers to them as “Stelvin Closures.” in the long term. Eager marketing Oh, and some of you are thinking, beavers and naïve newspaper reporters “SOPHIA COPPOLA! SOPHIA are the ones reversing the values of The Annual for the COPPOLA! That bitch puts her cleverness and respect. Champagne [sic] in a can!! With Art Museum a straw!!” But you are so totally, shamefully off the point. First, it’s “How much for a Remember: Thursday, September sparkling wine, not Champagne. 20 (6:30 - 9:30), the annual Asheville Art Second, she can do that because she young event?” – Museum wine tasting. This event is an is Sophia Coppola. She can do that RiverSculpture Festival annual bargain, and a worthy fundraiser. because she played The Cure’s “Plain (Our local Art Museum houses a Song” for the coronation of Louis A recent fundraiser again illustrated collection you should be proud of, and XVI. And she can do that because her how hard it is to predict how much offer super temporary exhibits.) This is little can has style. Those little cans of and what wine will be consumed. The the best kind of setup for a wine tasting: Australian Shiraz bombed because they event benefited the 2007 RiverSculpture stand-up, approach the table, no lecture. weren’t from SOPHIA COPPOLA. Festival, and took place downtown at For the price of three good bottles, you But here’s what really grates on me: the YMI Cultural Center on a Friday can taste dozens of wines — even pricier the new packaging is being implemented night. selections, which reduces your risk “to shake the snob stigma” of wine. Oh, Because RiverSculpture is still new when you spend money at your local please. This is a bad case of projection. to the area — this is its second year — wine retailer afterward. To the Europeans, wine, like sex, is the Working Committee is still laboring Tables manned by each of the no big deal. The hang-ups belong to to get an easy-to-remember word out region’s various wine distributors will the Americans. Further, the new little about this excellent, juried outdoor each show several wines for tasting wine boxes are being test-marketed exhibition of regional sculpture planned — around 100 wines. Local independent in... Belgian supermarkets! In sandwich for the French Broad River Park beside restaurants will also participate with Aisles! As an alternative to pop and the Amboy Road Bridge (the dog- provisions of lovely food, as always. bottled water! walking park). Call the museum to charge your tickets After that, there are plans to expand In the meantime, it was impossible at 828-253-3227. Non-members pay to the Canadian market, where wine to know how many people would be $35 or $65 per couple. Price at the door in similar packaging is offered in 80+ there, but we needed to have enough is $40. This is my favorite local wine labels. Here on this page I repeatedly food and wine, all donated of course. tasting event. recommended the one liter box of Caterers from the River Arts District,

Our semi-blind seated tastings at the Merrimon Ave. shop include a sampling of wines from some great producers including the Pacific Northwest. We’ll also explore the Central Coast of California for some great values, and our ever-popular Thrills for the Grill tasting will offer some great ideas for your next barbecue.

www.theashevillewineguy.com 555 Merrimon Ave. (828) 254-6500 1200 Hendersonville Rd. (828) 277-1120 Asheville, North Carolina

22 September 2007 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 11, No. 1 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE note worthy Grammy Award-Winning Banjoist Alison Brown to Perform September 8

he Haywood County Arts Krauss & Union Grisman, Stephane Grappelli and Mark Council proudly presents the Station for three O’Connor. A current member of the Alison Brown Quartet with Joe years, and later as beloved Garcia/Grisman Band, 2007 Craven in concert on Saturday, Michelle Schocked’s marks Joe Craven’s 7th year with the September 8th, 2007, at 8:00 bandleader. In 1995, David Grisman Quintet. Joe Craven pm at Eaglenest Entertainment Ms. Brown co- rejoins the Alison Brown Quartet for in Maggie Valley. Ticket prices founded Compass a spectacular performance in western Tare $15 to $50 and can be purchased by Records with her North Carolina. visiting the Eaglenest Entertainment husband Garry West, For more information about the box office located at 2701 Soco Road in bassist in the quartet. Alison Brown Quartet with Joe Craven Maggie Valley, NC 28751 or by calling In collaboration and other Haywood County Arts the box office at (828) 926-9658. Concert with Bela Flack, Council events visit the web site at www. sponsors are Eaglenest Entertainment, Alison Brown won haywoodarts.org. HomeTrust Bank, Smoky Mountain the 2000 Grammy News, WNCW-88.1, and Michael for Best Country Gillespie, DDS. Instrumental Grammy Award-winner and banjo Performance; she If you go virtuoso, Alison Brown and her bluegrass participated in quartet (banjo, piano, bass and drums) Krauss’s Grammy- The Haywood County Arts Council have played throughout the U.S. and the winning album presents The Alison Brown Quartet with world, including Surinam, Guyana and I’ve Got a Feeling, Alison Brown Joe Craven. the Shetland Islands. Ms. Brown began and has been Saturday, September 8, 2007 at 8:00 p.m. taking banjo lessons at the age of ten honored as Banjo Player of the Year she creates — in the words of the and later attended Harvard University. by the International Bluegrass Music Philadelphia Daily News — a “seamless Eaglenest Entertainment, 2701 Soco Rd, She earned her MBA from UCLA Association. Recording on her own synthesis of hoedown, Celtic and jazz.” Maggie Valley, NC 28751 while also continuing to play with a Compass Records, Alison Brown favors Mandolinist, violinist and ADMISSION: Ticket prices range from regional bluegrass band. Ms. Brown jazz and Latin grooves on this most percussionist extraordinaire, Joe Craven $15 to $50. Call the box office at Eaglenest quit her day job as an investment banker traditional of bluegrass instruments. has performed alongside such legendary Entertainment for tickets at (828) 926- in the late 1980s to tour with Alison In her latest release, Stolen Moments, musicians as Jerry Garcia, David 9658.

Vol. 11, No. 1 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — September 2007 23 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE COVER STORY

Haywood Arts Regional Theater Local involvement is key to HART’s steady growth and continued success.

‘HART’ continued from pg 5 said. The play also helped finance his first everyone likes dessert, but you can’t have Much has changed in Waynesville in few years with HART when they couldn’t seven courses of dessert. I’m going to the 20-plus years that Lloyd has dedicated I decided this is where I wanted to stay. afford to hire a salaried staff. slip you a little broccoli, too, something to his passion. “Twenty years ago, we The HART board knows I’m not going He is most proud of the building, that’s good for you.” His main priority is had a $25,000-a-year budget and were anywhere.” though. The Performing Arts Center is a to “give people a season that makes them housed in a dilapidated space. We were in Because of those deep roots, Lloyd is Craftsman-style building, which is both feel satisfied.” the Strand building on Main Street, but now better able to decipher local trends, elegant and unpretentious. It was built Many of the cast members from we were kicked out by the fire marshal. tastes, and attitudes. “In the wintertime, with the neighborhood in mind and looks HART’s production of West Side Story That was back when you could get just the size of this community shrinks as the very much like a rustic house set into came from the School of Music. Lloyd about everything you needed for living tourists go home,” he said. “We schedule a beautiful eight-acre historic pastoral says it was one of the best productions on Main Street. There was a hardware six shows every winter in the studio, site bordered by trees. The simple yet they’ve ever done. “The cast were all store, a drug store, a clothing store. I’ve which seats 70. These are pieces brought dramatic design and use of native woods teenagers, and they could all sing and act watched it slowly evolve into a tourist and dance. It’s hard to find attraction.” Not that he’s complaining that level of commitment, about that, either. “West Side Story sold to find people who will be out all sixteen performances, and most of willing to give up their whole those were tourists. We couldn’t survive summer to do it.” Local without the summer people.” involvement is key to HART’s HART is now celebrating its 10th steady growth and continued season in the Performing Arts Center, success. “It is a volunteer- and it doesn’t seem possible to Lloyd that driven organization,” he said. almost 25 years have passed since he took “That’s one of the reasons up the cause of treating Haywood County we’ve had the success we’ve audiences to the best theater experience had: we’re very lean. We possible. To celebrate, he has scheduled are also fortunate to have an Bat Boy: The Musical as the season- extensive and loyal subscriber opener on the main stage in March 2008. base.” Lloyd keeps that in Based on an article in the popular trashy mind even when he is staging tabloid Weekly World News, it’s the shows and constructing sets. heartwarming faux-bizarro tale of a half- For example, the group will bat half-boy creature discovered in a cave be performing Cabaret in near Hope Falls, West Virginia. Another September and October. play set in rural West Virginia, titled Without giving too much Floyd Collins, is one that Lloyd is most away, Lloyd has designed the excited about. It’s based on the true story production and constructed of a 1930s cave explorer and is, according the stage to include the to Newsday, “one of the truly great music audience as part of the theater scores of the last decade.” performance. There is something for everyone In a small town where in the upcoming season, like The Road “We wanted to build something that would grow to provide what we needed as we evolved...” everyone knows everyone to Mecca, a prize-winning drama by – Steven Lloyd, Director of the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre. else, everyone also knows Athol Fugard, one of South Africa’s everyone else’s business, most successful playwrights; or Equus, to me by local actors and directors, pieces was intended to integrate the building and it didn’t take long to turn the whole the story of a naked silent boy who has that they want to do.” The audience for into its surroundings. neighborhood out to help HART when blinded six horses; or Minor Deamons, these shows is mostly local residents, “We wanted to build something that a water sprinkler burst and flooded the which examines murder in a small and Lloyd tries to tailor the offerings would grow to provide what we needed front part of the building. Word of mouth Pennsylvania town. The group is also accordingly. “I believe that it is a mistake as we evolved, instead of building a big jumped into action, and helpful neighbors performing more contemporary favorites to pick seasons by committee,” he said. hall and trying to fill it up after the fact,” showed up to bail water and move props. like On Golden Pond and Kiss Me “They don’t take into consideration Lloyd explained. “There were prior “Within 15 minutes, we had a dozen shop Kate. Besides Bat Boy: The Musical, the things like community interest, or the efforts to build a center; one of them vacs there, and I never even made a call,” performance that is most likely to appeal level of acting required, or the amount was expected to cost $30 million. But Lloyd says. “We had a performance there to audiences is Escanaba in da Moonlight, of production involved.” The group plans for these big grandiose facilities two days later.” which contains “what may well be the performs 13 shows a year — seven on the always failed, because they didn’t address The building also functions as funniest scene you have ever witnessed main stage and six in the studio — and our community needs. We built a a gathering place for numerous arts on stage.” Lloyd strives to provide a diverse offering modest structure, and the community organizations. In addition to providing On this breezy sun-seared day in of shows for people to enjoy. responded. We had a real sensitivity to HART with rehearsal and performance August, Lloyd looks out the window of Born in Winston-Salem, Lloyd holds having it reflect the history of the area space, the center is also home to the his office overlooking a beautiful grassy degrees in theater and communications and have it ‘fit’.” Most of the surrounding Swannanoa Chamber Music Group and meadow to watch the groundhogs waddle from UNC-Chapel Hill and UNC- countryside used to belong to a dairy Folkmoot, and can also accommodate about. “For me, it’s a rewarding job,” Greensboro. He lived in Los Angeles farm, but has now been converted into recording sessions. There’s a nine- Lloyd smiles again and says, “even if I’ve and worked as an actor before coming to residential or commercial property. foot concert Steinway grand piano been in this building every day for the the area as a visiting artist. It would be a Lloyd also benefits from having the available for use by local musicians. last three months.” Don’t feel to badly fortunate chain of events that led Lloyd Performing Arts School of Music next “We are the most actively programmed for him, though: it’s a beautiful jail he’s to his dream job. He wrote a play titled door from which to draw talent. Having facility in the region. We’re bursting at incarcerated in. The Actor and the Assassin based on access to people who want to perform the seams already,” he said. There are For more information and a schedule the assassination of President Abraham in theater allows him to schedule more hopes and plans for further expansion of upcoming events, log onto www. Lincoln by John Wilkes Boothe. “An diverse seasons. “They have to be shows I as the region grows. “We’d like to build harttheatre.com or call the box office at agent saw it and picked it up; it toured for enjoy too,” Lloyd says. “I pick a season as a separate building just for the studio (828) 456-6322. 17 years and it paid for my house,” Lloyd if I were planning a dinner menu. Now, performances,” he said.

24 September 2007 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 11, No. 1 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE PERFORMANCE Diana Wortham Theatre Celebrates Its 10th Season elebrating its 10th season, the Bonoff accompanied by her longtime royalty” by The Boston Herald (March a magical, hour-long production of Mainstage Series presents a collaborator Kenny Edwards on guitar, 6, 2008); Gráda, an extremely talented Shakespeare’s fantastical romance wide range of top touring artists bass, mandolin, and harmony, and quintet that is causing a major stir on the intertwining puppetry and actors to in music, theater, dance and guitarist Nina Gerber (November 16, traditional music scene (March 22, 2008); recreate Prospero’s world (April 9, 2008). comedy. 2007); the jazzy master Scottish New for the 2007/2008 and sophisticated fiddler Alasdair Cseason is the Off-Broadway Musical Alison Brown Fraser and Series featuring three nationally touring Quartet with vibrant young If you go musicals. Almost Heaven: Songs of John Joe Craven has cellist Natalie Denver (eight performances October a tremendous Haas, a fiery Diana Wortham Theatre at Pack Place 2-7, 2007) is presented in partnership sound that draws duo featured September 2007 - May 2008. with North Carolina Stage Company and form a myriad of at festivals Tickets for all shows go on sale August 23 launches in Asheville before going on influences (March and concerts with two cost-saving options for multiple a coast-to-coast national tour. Twenty- 8, 2008); and the throughout the ticket purchases. The most popular is the nine of Denver’s songs, including “Rocky Erin Bode Group United States theatre’s Pick 5 Series pass - discounted Mountain High,” “Sunshine on My mesmerizes MOMIX’s desert-inspired Opus Cactus and Europe tickets to any five shows in the season. A Shoulders,” “Annie’s Song,” “Leaving on a audiences with (April 12, 2008); Super Saver Series pass, for admission to Jet Plane,” and more are rediscovered and Bode’s irresistible voice, backed by top- and Buille, one of the most potent new 16 or more events at only $22 per event, reinvented by a versatile five-person cast. notch players, performing original songs sounds emerging from Ireland featuring may be shared among business clients, In a pre-Broadway run, Irving plus pop and jazz standards (April 11, the virtuosic concertina playing of Irish employees, family members and friends. Berlin’s I Love A Piano (eight 2008). star Niall Vallely (May 22, 2008). The Pick 5 and the Super Saver Series performances Feb. 19-24, 2008) is a The 2007/2008 Mainstage Dance The Mainstage 2007/2008 Family ticket options offer substantial savings nostalgic musical journey spanning Series, recognized for its presentation Series, in partnership with Theatre over the cost of individual performances. seven decades of American history as of some of the nation’s foremost dance UNCA and The Center for Diversity seen through the eyes of the unparalleled companies presents: the stunning Education, features two performances Tickets for all events are available online songmaster Irving Berlin. Direct from imagery and choreography of the famed especially for youth and their families, but at www.dwtheatre.com as well as from the Off-Broadway comes the first national Moses Pendleton in MOMIX’s highly also of general interest to all audiences: box office at (828) 257-4530. tour of the The Great American Trailer original desert-inspired dance work Junglebook, the story of young Mowgli For a season brochure call the box office at Park Musical (6 performances March Opus Cactus (February 26-27, 2008); (October 18, 2007) and The Tempest, (828) 257-4530 13-16, 2008). An infectious score, cheeky Garth Fagan Dance, featuring the script, incredible set, and some of the genre-busting dance style of the Tony- most roof-raising, girl-group singing winning, Walt Disney The Lion King since the Pointer Sisters all add up in this choreographer Garth Fagan (March 4- fabulous new production. 5, 2008); Ronald K. Brown’s company The Mainstage Series season opens Evidence presenting a new work - One September 12, 2007 with Tell The Shot, inspired by the life and work of Stories So That They May Know, an African American choreographer Charles evening with master storyteller, narrator, “Teenie” Harris (March 25-26, 2008); and singer Charlotte Blake Alston who and the contemporary, sophisticated and shares stories, songs, raps, monologues, high-energy Koresh Dance Company poetry and dramatic impersonations from known for work that is both eloquent and the African and African American oral explosive (May 2-3, 2008). and cultural traditions. Her stories are The 2007/2008 Mainstage enhanced by the sounds of traditional Theatre Series features three varied instruments including djembe, berimau, performances: L.A. Theatre Works nkoning, mbira and the 21-stringed kora. presents Top Secret: The Battle for The The 2007/2008 Special Attractions Pentagon Papers, starring Stacey Keach Series presents audience (cast subject to change), favorites including: the in a dramatic work that improvisational comedy provides an inside look at troupe Chicago City Limits, the The Washington Post’s New York’s longest-running 1971 decision to publish show (October 19-20, the secret Vietnam study 2007); the highly produced, (January19-20, 2008); the spectacular showcase inventive and highly lauded Bellydance Superstars, hailed Aquila Theatre Company as the next big dance show returns to Asheville for phenomenon (October 30, back-to-back performances 2007); world musicians Al of Shakespeare’s Julius Petteway, Amy White and Caesar; and a stage others sharing music from the adaptation of Joseph Celtic and American winter Arlo Guthrie Heller’s landmark Catch-22 traditions in A Swannanoa (February 8-9, 2008). Solstice (two shows December 16, 2007); Presented in partnership with The and a rare opportunity to catch the wise Swannanoa Gathering, the 2007/2008 and funny Arlo Guthrie at his unplugged Mainstage Celtic Series presents four best in back to back shows for Valentine’s of the top touring bands in the Scots- Day (February 14-15, 2008). Irish traditional music genre: Lúnasa The 2007/2008 Music Series features: dubbed an “Irish music dream team” music scene icon and hit-maker Karla by Folk Roots and “the new Celtic

Vol. 11, No. 1 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — September 2007 25 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE ARTFUL LIVING GOD IS... “The Tao that can be named is not the Tao.” “God said to Moses, ‘I am who I am.’ (YHWH)” by Bill Walz umanity, Get over into the trap. But the void after YHWH tells Moses not to make pretending that we can name and impose yourself. The God cannot be filled in this way, any graven images. Sin is in the rules that we make up and claim to be debate is human and a deep archetypal urge arrogance that leads to separation. from the Divine. civilization’s lingering in humanity continues Sublime wonder is union. To The result of that folly has been all binge with dualism. to seek to express the make God in the image of man, the destruction humanity has wrought on Does God exist or not? knowing of this mystery. and claim to own God’s truth, is each other and the world. It has been the The atheist and the Evangelical Ten thousand faces, ten the graven image, and naming the denial of wonder that leads to all human Hdebate. And of the competing thousand names. nameless for our own vanity is manipulation and destruction. versions of God and His law, The wisest the beginning of sin. It is the Lao Tzu understood. “The Tao that whose idea of God is correct? Bill knew. This - which denial of the sublime wonder can be named is not the Tao.” It is human Theologians and Walz cannot be named. of that which cannot be folly. Yet, the Tao even contains human philosophers wrangle endlessly Yet, it is important named. folly, and will continue should human in this foolishness, when the that somehow we To attempt to name, folly destroy humanity and its planet question they ought to be debating is find a way to express this is to drag by force, for vain home. Perhaps, however, humanity can whether an anthropomorphic deity exists knowing that God is. needs, the unmanifested touch and own its deep knowing of the and does an anthropocentric logic rule the God is. And when consciousness that sacred mystery, and with that knowing Universe? Answer? No to both! we are in the midst manifests into begin the era of sublime wonder, of The Universe is, and The God of of the experience, manifestation on humanity’s coming home and new the Universe is vastly greater than human we realize that we human terms. beginning. reasoning can conceptualize and express. can only in truth We neglect that We are universal consciousness God can only be apprehended as a vast experience God as, the terms for individualized, seeking our way unknowable. God, as ancient mystical to borrow from a this manifesting home. When we rediscover ourselves texts seem to imply, and modern science Jewish theologian, consciousness as imbedded in Nature, we will also indicates, seems to be more of a unified Abraham are already set. rediscover our oneness with the mystery field of energy that precedes the physical Heschel, It is Nature. of Deity that we have given a thousand universe, is the physical universe, and is “sublime To arrogantly names to. also the consciousness that experiences wonder”. set this aside to And then the void will be filled. the universe. Heschel stated, in insist on human Humanity keeps getting lost in a lecture I heard many years ago, that “the terms called anthropomorphic religions is an anthropomorphic idea of a creator denial of the sublime wonder of life is the fall from Eden, from oneness. of the stuff of the Universe - which the origin of sin, the origin of the attitude This life we live. It is. “Everything Bill Walz is a UNCA adjunct faculty they categorize and accumulate - while that leads to sin.” That statement was, is”, as consciousness icon, Alan Watts, member and a private-practice teacher paying no attention to the mystery of the to me, satori’s thunderclap. Sin is acting wonderfully said, “as it can be”. From of mindfulness, personal growth and consciousness that is the source from from an arrogance that assumes knowing unmanifested consciousness this life consciousness. He holds a weekly which all the stuff manifests. We all have and owning what is unknowable and manifests. It is. It is the mystery. It is meditation class, Mondays, 7pm at the a deep knowing of this mystery, but it is unownable. Sin is separateness. This sin, Life. It is as it can be in a mystery of Friends Meeting House, 227 Edgewood. so buried under the “stuff” that we lose this separateness, is also the source of all evolving manifestation. When referenced He will be speaking at the Unity Church almost all connection with this knowing. mental suffering. theologically, it is God. Our purpose of Arden, Wednesday, Sept. 26, 7-9pm. This leaves a void in us, and we make up Try this on: The first sin is the in this journey of manifestation is to Info on classes and personal growth and religions with names for God and special naming of God. “You shall not take the bring our individualized consciousness healing instruction or phone consultations knowledge of God’s rules and wishes name of the Lord your God in vain”. into sublime wonder, into harmony and at (828) 258-3241, or e-mail at healing@ to fill that void. Even mystic traditions, That’s the first commandment to Moses union with the Natural Universe, with billwalz.com. Visit www.billwalz.com when claiming special knowledge, fall from the un-nameable YHWH. It’s given God, with what is. It ought not to be

‘Shrine Art’ for Holy Ground n evening of food, wine, music sometimes presenting a manifestation of and inspirational art will be held the spiritual world and may be placed in on Friday, September 28, 2007 a sacred space in the home. Artist Byron to raise funds for Holy Ground Ballard notes that sacred art allows the Retreat Ministries, a non-profit viewer to come “to a particular place organization located in downtown to interact with a particular face of the AAsheville committed to strengthening divine.” community by nurturing the spiritual life. Works featured in the auction include Twenty-five regional artists have pieces by artists well established in the contributed works to be auctioned local art scene and newer, emerging off during the event, with all funds artists. One emerging artist whose work going to Holy Ground, to expand the will be featured is also a board member organization’s work of integrating the of the organization. Christopher Slusher, public and private dimensions of people’s owner of Portable Architecture, creates lives in service of greater justice and unique upholstered folding screens out beauty. of his home studio in North Asheville, Shrine art can be an object of using a wide variety of fabrics, colors and contemplation; it may be worn on textures. Slusher, whose background clothing or displayed on a table, a wall includes an architectural degree and years or in the garden. Shrine art is inspiring, ‘Holy Ground’ continued on next page

26 September 2007 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 11, No. 1 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE ARTFUL LIVING

Tai Chi Teacher Bids Farewell Tai Chi and Quigong by Michael Clark in Asheville “Conscious Movement” show for Accem Scott and I started the monthly y regular students URTV Asheville Channel 20. I will cable TV show “Conscious Movement” have known this for occasionally send him segments in 2006. The next step for me is to take There are many Tai Chi and Qigong some time, but yes, it’s that I shoot in Mexico. this message global through the Internet. teachers in Asheville for you to official... I am moving to Fourth, I will return 4) Reaching the people by going to continue your study or start taking Mexico on September periodically to cities in the United where they are. I have taught in hospitals, classes. Here is a brief selection. 15, 2007. This is my last States, including Asheville, to chiropractic clinics, schools, parks Mprinted column in Rapid River. give workshops on Tai Chi and YMCAs, fitness clubs, churches, health On last year’s Qigong trip Qigong. Building on the recent food stores, and perhaps most surprising TAI CHI to China I met a woman from Michael success of the Healing Promise of of all... an Indian Casino! Mexico named Margarita Mora. Clark Qi workshops, I plan to offer more Crayton Bedford (Good thing I am fluent in weekend workshops on a variety Special Thanks Yang Short Form of Tai Chi from Cheng Man-Ching. Spanish!) We dated long distance of topics. These visits will also be I offer a bow in honor of my primary for over a year and now we have decided a good opportunity for students to get (828) 230-0529 Tai Chi teacher, Chris Luth, and my [email protected] it is time for us to be together every day... private lessons to fine-tune their forms. primary Qigong teacher, Roger Jahnke. with an eye toward getting married next Highlights of Teaching Tai Chi Thanks to Roseanne Kiely of Grove Yang Tai Chi Practice Group - summer. I will join her in Xalapa, the Corner Market and Mary Summersette of state capital of Veracruz, Mexico. Using The things I am most proud of Paul Summey Trinity Episcopal Church who helped me FREE practice at 8 a.m. her hotel industry experience and my during my four years of teaching in host ongoing classes for nearly four years. Qigong teaching experience, our long- Asheville are... Saturdays in the parking lot I also give special thanks to Accem behind the Reuter YMCA. term goal is to build a retreat center in 1) Fostering a sense of unity and Scott for his teaching, friendship and Mexico where teachers from all over the (828) 337-3030 cooperation among all teachers of Tai example of living flowing-in-the-moment. [email protected] world can join us in spreading the Qi. Chi and Qigong, regardless of lineage or Accem and I forged a partnership in 2003 What does this mean for students and style. Accem Scott and I took the lead in that has been a positive force in my life Mark Small friends of Heaven and Earth Tai Chi? organizing the Asheville celebration of and a source of constant creativity and Mountain Dragon Kung Fu Basically, it means that my teaching World Tai Chi and Qigong Day (the last shared classes, workshops, events and (828) 285-2929 will shift to being distributed via the Saturday in April) for the past four years, TV programs over the years. Accem will [email protected] Internet and periodic workshops but many other teachers contributed carry on the legacy we started in new and www.main.nc.us/mtndragon in different locations. First, I will their time and expertise to the event. unexpected ways. He will continue to hold continue to publish an electronic Tai Together, we exposed hundreds of people the Conscious Movement Day Celebration Bob Feeser Chi Newsletter, concentrating on in Western North Carolina to these (his brainchild) every October. I suggest (828) 298-2655 news, research findings, opportunities meditative health arts! you contact Accem (see sidebar) for classes [email protected] for international qigong journeys, 2) Getting Tai Chi and Qigong into and get on his mailing list. Derek Croley and insights I gain through practice To all of you who supported me in Croley’s Martial Arts and contact with other teachers. (To Mission Hospitals through health fairs, workshops and classes. word and deed over the past years, my (828) 251-5807 subscribe, email me at Michael@ sincere thanks. [email protected] HeavenAndEarthTaiChi.com). 3) Getting the word out about Tai www.croleysmartialarts.com Second, I have shot a lot of video Chi through local media, reaching for my cable TV program, “Conscious thousands of households. As an unofficial Michael Clark is a certified Qigong Movement,” and I plan to distribute short spokesperson for the art, I have been instructor and founder of Heaven QIGONG instructional videos for the whole world interviewed many times by television, and Earth Tai Chi in Asheville (www. to watch on YouTube.com. Third, my radio and newspapers. For three years, I HeavenAndEarthTaiChi.com). He can be Accem Scott longtime friend and associate, Accem wrote this monthly column on Tai Chi reached at (828) 252-6851 or michael@ (828) 280-7287 Scott, will continue to produce the and Qigong for Rapid River Magazine. HeavenAndEarthTaiChi.com. [email protected] www.AccemScott.com Jan Gillespie time of worship, numerous retreats, will begin at 8:00 p.m. Tickets for the (828) 277-7318 ‘Holy Ground’ continued from pg 26 classes and workshops throughout event are $45 and may be purchased by [email protected] of work in historic preservation, calls the the year, Holy Ground has, for the calling Holy Ground at 236-0222. Michael Winn screens “his architecture” and uses his past two years, offered a six-month (828) 296-1930 love of history to allude to earlier times intensive for area activists and health care Artists who have contributed to the [email protected] and to create beauty which can enrich providers called “Spiritual Resources for auction: www.HealingDao.com Community Leaders.” people’s lives. Byron Ballard Kent Leslie Holy Ground, Inc. was founded in This program invites community Cosmic Chi Center members who are in the business of Katherine Bartel Carol Minton Teresa Gibbs, (828) 243-3486 1993 by Dorri Sherrill and Sandra Smith, Gwen Bigham Fleta Monaghan theology school friends who decided to caring for others into a period of self- www.cosmicchi.com reflection and support through monthly Betty Clark Julia Masaoka create a place where people could explore Chiwa Catherine Musham images of the Holy and ask questions in a retreats on different topics, with time Chinese Acupuncture Clinic for silence, ritual and feasting. Slusher Joel Cole Daniel Nevins (828) 258-9016 life-giving setting, as well as examine how Paula Dawkins Christopher our relationship with the Holy affects our participated in the program during its www.chineseacupuncture-wnc.com first year, when he was still serving as John Dodson Slusher daily living and guides us toward justice- Virginia DuPre Laura Sims making. Over the years the organization the executive director of Neighborhood Daoist Traditions Housing Services. Suzanne Gernandt Isabel Taylor Chinese College of has brought such leading thinkers to town George Handy Martha Tueting as Mormon environmentalist and author The Shrine Art Project will be held Chinese Medical Arts at Coleman Place on Montford Avenue, Jennifer Jenkins Adele Wayman (828) 225-3993 Terry Tempest Williams, and Catholic Gail LaMuraglia Annie Weiler nun and opponent of the death penalty, above the new Chamber of Commerce. A [email protected] Sister Helen Prejean, and Buddhist preview of the art, with a chance to meet educator and author bell hooks. many of the artists (listed below) will be Laura Collins, 236-0222, holyground1@ In addition to a weekly Sacred Circle held from 6:30 to 7:45. The art auction bellsouth.net, www.holygroundretreats.org

Vol. 11, No. 1 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — September 2007 27 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE WHAT TO DO GUIDE ™

Chamber Music Concert Full Moon Farm Wolfdog (828) 884-2787. Applications to How to place an Sunday, September 2 Rescue and Sanctuary will hold UNC Asheville participate in ArtMart are due its 3rd Annual Silent Auction September Events Friday, October 26. event/classified At 3 PM, the St. Matthias String at the historic Biltmore Village Quartet will present a concert Inn in Asheville. Food, drink September 5 ArtMart will take place on listing with Rapid featuring works by Mozart, and entertainment will be The Untold Ensemble Saturday, November 3, from 9 River Art Magazine Schubert, and Lachner. The provided. Tickets are $20.00 per in concert, 12:45 p.m., a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Transylvania quartet includes Brent Yingling person and may be purchased UNC Asheville’s Lipinsky Community Arts Center, 349 Any “free” event open to on first violin; Judy Vlietstra at Bone-A-Fide Bakery in Black Auditorium, free. Call South Caldwell Street, Brevard, on second violin; Brenda Mountain (828) 669-0706 or (828) 251-6432 for more NC. Artists do not need to be the public can be listed at Phetteplace on viola; and Ron present at the sale. TC Arts is no charge up to 30 words. at Biltmore Village Inn (828) information. Lambe on cello. 274-8707. Call (828) 669-1818 open Monday through Friday For all other events there is September 7 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more There is no charge for the for more information. www. information, call Transylvania a $9.95 charge up to 30 concert, but a free will offering fullmoonfarm.org, www. Step Afrika!, 8 p.m., words and for Community Arts Council at 10 cents will be taken for the restoration biltmorevillageinn.com UNC Asheville’s Lipinsky (828) 884-2787 or visit us on the each additional word. of the beautiful and historic Auditorium, $15 general web at www.tcarts.org. church. St. Matthias’ Church is admission. Call (828) 232- 160 word limit per event. over 100 years old and is on the HOWL-IN 5000 for tickets. TC Arts is a nonprofit Sponsored listings (shown in national historic register. organization with the mission Saturday, September 22 September 12 to “Celebrate and Nurture the boxes) can be purchased for The church is located in $12 per column inch. Full Moon Farm Wolfdog Pianist Bradley Martin Creative Spirit in Transylvania Asheville just off South Charlotte Rescue and Sanctuary in Black County.” The Arts Council Street at Max Street on the hill in concert, 12:45 p.m., Deadline is the 19th of each Mountain will hold a howl-in UNC Asheville’s Lipinsky receives support from TC Arts month. Payment must be across from the Asheville Public and open house for the public. Members, the City of Brevard, Works Building, 1 Dundee St. Auditorium, free. Call made prior to printing. Tours of the farm start at 3:00 (828) 251-6432 for more Transylvania County Schools, and pm and a potluck supper will information. the North Carolina Arts Council. Email Beth Gossett at: begin at 5:00pm. Cost $5.00 [email protected] UNC Asheville Senior to includes Perry’s Barbecue September 16 or mail to: 85 N. Main St, Hold Sculpture Exhibition and soft drinks. For more Writers at Home Series: Upcoming Events at information and directions call Canton, NC 28716. Or Call: Through September 3 Readings by Billie Harper Osondu Booksellers (828) 669-1818 or 669-0706. Buie and Elizabeth All events at Osondu Booksellers, (828) 646-0071 to place ad “Mystery and the Method,” a 184 N. Main, Waynesville unless over the phone. sculpture exhibition by UNC Lutyens, 3 p.m., Malaprop’s otherwise noted. Asheville senior Jeff A. Ceaser Bookstore/Café, 55 Haywood will be on view at UNC Annual Heritage Day St., downtown Asheville, Sat., September 15, 7pm – Disclaimer – Asheville’s Owen Hall Second Festival free. Call (828) 232-5122 for Blues artist Bobby G more information. Due to the overwhelming Floor Gallery. The show is the September 29 2007 1-5PM returns for a performance at culmination of Ceaser’s work Margaret’s Café. number of local event submis- Sponsored by The Friends of September 19 toward his bachelor of arts degree the Green River Library. Exit 3 sions we get for our “What to at UNC Asheville. UNC Asheville’s Sun., September 16, 3pm Do Guide” each month, we can Green River Exit follow signs. Distinguished Speaker Series Sarah Addison Allen, author The gallery is open from 9 a.m. Storytelling-Falcon Show- presents an evening with of Garden Spells will join us no longer accept entries that Bluegrass Music-Crafts. Contact do not specifically follow our to 6 p.m. weekdays. Admission filmmaker John Waters, for readings, signings, and is free. For more information, Karen Jones 828 694-3638. publication’s format. Non-paid 8 p.m., UNC Asheville’s afternoon tea in Margaret’s call UNC Asheville’s Art Lipinsky Auditorium, $30 Tea and Wine Café. event listings must be 30 words Department at (828) 251-6559. or less and both paid and non- general admission or $10 Call to Artists and students. Call (828) 232-5000 Sat., September 22, 11am paid listings must provide infor- Craftspeople for tickets. Storytime with Jerry Pope, mation in the following format: Inspired Color Here is an opportunity for area author of Madeleine Claire date, time, brief description of artists to clean out studios, September 29 and the Dinosaur. what your event is and any con- Through September 10 Fleta Monaghan, Painter make a little extra money for Flute, Tango and Friends, Sat., September 22, 7pm tact information. Any entries not the holidays, and support the 7:30 p.m., UNC Asheville’s following this format will not be Cindy Trisler, Potter Traveling Bonfires’ Pasckie local arts council! Transylvania Lipinsky Auditorium, $5 Pascua will introduce considered for publication. Woolworth Walk, 25 Haywood Community Arts Council is general admission. Call Asheville, a hot-off-the press Street, Asheville, NC. For more looking for artists and crafters (828) 251-6432 for more novel by The Indie feature information call (828) 254-9234. to sell work at its fifth annual information. writer Gaither Stewart. Late Summer Hours: Monday ArtMart fundraiser. Contributing - Thursday 11 to 6; Friday & artists are able to sell work that September 30 For more information, phone Saturday 11 to 7; Sunday: 11 to 5 tends to clutter studios - pieces Pianist Hwa-Jin Kim in (828) 456-8062 that may not have sold in the concert, 4 p.m., UNC Advertising Sales Woolworth Walk is a member www.osondubooksellers.com of the Asheville Downtown past or did not turn out exactly Asheville’s Lipinsky Representatives Gallery Association. www. as expected. So set aside a box in Auditorium, $5 general ashevilledowntowngalleries.org your studio and start collecting admission. Call (828) 251- The Rapid River needs that clutter now! 6432 for more information. Traveling Bonfires experienced sales personnel. Participating artists should bring Sunday, September 2, Interested? Silent Auction artwork they are willing to sell at 5:00pm-8:30pm significantly discounted prices. line at www.tcarts.org, at the “61 Dunwell’s People’s Potluck.” Call (828) 646-0071, or e-mail Thursday, September 20 from Applications and additional Transylvania Community Arts The Indie, Traveling Bonfires [email protected] 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. information are available on- Center, or by calling TC Arts at & Third World Asheville host August Events ~ Announcements ~ Classifieds

28 September 2007 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 11, No. 1 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE WHAT TO DO GUIDE ™

Call for Entries Art Fundamentals Workshops for New class with Ruth Goldsborough: “79.9” Adults at River’s Edge Studio Introduction to Plein Air Drawing and Painting We are pleased to announce our September Orientation: Friday September 7th 10:00-11:00 am. Classes next Opening September 7th schedule of classes in drawing and four Fridays: September 14, 21, 28 and October 5th, 9 am-noon The Conn-Artist Studios painting. Designed for both the aspiring and 1:00-4:00. Bring sack lunch. Cost: $125 at 443 N. Main St. in and experienced artist, classes focus on Hendersonville (upstairs- foundation topics in art to help you gain skills This is an incredible opportunity to receive instruction from a easier entrance off 5th and knowledge. Instructors Fleta Monaghan nationally known painter! The class will go outside to draw in the Ave.) is holding a reception (painting) and Constance Humphries morning learning composition and value. for a juried show “79.9” (drawing) are practicing artists with years of Afternoons in the studio students will learn how to paint from September 7th, 5:30-8:30 experience teaching art to adults. their own drawings, focusing on color, combinations, value, and pm. (during 1st Friday Color Mixing I - Sept 8th, 10-3, $65.00 Learn what paints to buy composition. Students will learn how to paint trees, bushes, rocks, Gallery Walk). The show will and foregrounds. Contact The Conn-Artist Studios at 443 N. run until October 1st. for a limited color palette, how to use the paints, practice mixing and seeing colors. Great for beginners and those needing up-to- Main in Hendersonville. Supply list and information: www.Conn- To celebrate the vision and date pigment information and color mixing practice. Artist.com or call (828) 329-2918. vitality of WNC “seasoned” artists the requirement for Color II - Sept 22nd, 10-3, $65.00 Learn how to read labels, entrance is that the artist pigment properties, how to expand you palette of colors An Evening of Poetry and Music, Southeast Asia, particulary the must be at least 79 years intelligently and save money. performers TBA. Osondu Philippines countrysides. For young in 2007. Line - Sept 15th, 10-3, $65.00 The basic element of art is Line. Booksellers, 184 N. Main St., info, [email protected] or call Framing supplies “Presto” Practice accurate drawing and seeing using various line drawing Waynesville, NC. FREE. For info, Marta Osborne at (828) 505- manager John Flinchum techniques from a simple still life. (828) 456-8062 or (828) 505-0476. 0476. and studio owner Connie Value - Sept 29th, 10-3, $65.00 Learn how to draw objects Every Thursday, 7:30pm- For additional info call (828) Vlahoulis will offer a prize that seem to be three dimensional by using various shading 10:00pm (sign up, 7:00pm) 505-0476, or visit www. for Best of Show. Judging techniques. Practice and expert guidance helps you gain mastery. The Traveling Bonfires’ Open indieasheville.com or http:// is by Asheville artist Wendy indiebonfires.blogspot.com Whitson. For more information and a complete class schedule, call Fleta at Mic with Emcee, Kapila. The (828) 776-2716 or email [email protected]. Dripolator Coffeehouse, 144 This working artist studio in Biltmore Avenue, downtown downtown Hendersonville Asheville. For info, (828) 252- offers art instruction, open 0021. studio hours, and original Corgi Tales by Phil Hawkins art by the resident artists: Barbara Hipwell, Sandra Pride, Gail Williams, and Connie Vlahoulis. Studio Hours: Tuesday & Friday 12-4:30, and by appointment. Contact Conn-Artist Studios at (828) 329-2918 www.Conn-Artist.com

By Amy Downs ROAD TOUR “Vagrant Wind,” the Traveling Bonfires’ Road Journey 07 presents “The Duane Tour” (A Health Care Advocacy Fundraiser). Bands, singer-songwriters, poets, and filmmakers are invited to join Bonfires’ founder Pasckie Pascua a summer to fall road trip to Durham, Chapel, and a Sunday potluck/gathering/ The Traveling Bonfires and 55 Haywood St., downtown Raleigh NC, Washington informal discussion. 61 Dunwell Third World Asheville present Asheville. FREE. For info, (828) DC, Baltimore, New Avenue, (West) Asheville. For “Four Generations of Women 254-6734 or (828) 505-0476. York City, Philadelphia, info, (828) 505-0476. in India,” a talk by Eira Patnaik, and Boston. First Leg an all-women poetry reading. Saturday, September 22, starts September 15, ends Wednesday, September 19, Emcee, Marta Osborne. 6:30pm-8:30pm on the 18th. Proceeds 6:30pm-8:30pm Malaprop’s Bookshop/Cafe, The Traveling Bonfires presents go to typhoon victims in Classes ~ Lectures ~ arts & crafts ~ readings

Vol. 11, No. 1 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — September 2007 29 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE note worthy Cinema Legend John Waters to Speak at UNC Asheville September 19

ohn Waters, the man Johnny Depp, who starred in his 1990 who perfected cinematic film “Cry Baby.” camp, will discuss his In addition to filmmaking, Waters has Waters’ films screen work and wild approach acted in a number of movies, including to creativity at 8 p.m. his own, and has appeared on popular September 12-18 Wednesday, Sept. 19, television shows, such as “The Simpsons,” at UNC Asheville’s “My Name is Earl” and “Frasier.” He has J Lipinsky Auditorium. a regular role as the Groom Reaper on Lecture Hall. Discussions will follow. The filmmaking legend “’Til Death Do Us Part.” The next event in the Speakers’ launches UNC Asheville’s General admission tickets are $30. Series is an evening with acclaimed 2007-08 Distinguished Because of the high demand of tickets sustainable-design architect Michael Speakers Series. for this event, all patrons are limited Singer on October 24. A native of Baltimore, to purchasing just two tickets. Tickets Waters made his first film go on sale September 10. To reserve “Hag in a Black Leather Jacket” tickets by phone, call UNC Asheville’s at age 18. Though it was Highsmith University Union Box Office shown only once in a beatnik at (828) 232-5000. For information about If you go coffee house, it launched his purchasing group tickets, call (828) 251- career. Waters has gone on to 6991. If the event is not sold out, local Admission is $5 cash or check at the door. make 15 more films, including students will be able to purchase $10 Films in the series include: “Polyester” on such cult classics as “Pink tickets with school ID cards at the door Wednesday, September 12; “Hairspray” Flamingos,” “Hairspray” and the night of the talk. on Thursday, September 13; “Cry Baby” “Cecil B. DeMented.” Waters Prior to his talk, UNC Asheville will on Monday, September 17; and “Serial helped solidify the career of host a John Waters Film Festival. Four of Mom” on Tuesday, September 18. his childhood best friend, Waters’ best-loved films will be shown at For more information, call (828) 251-6991 drag queen Divine, as well as 8 p.m. in UNC Asheville’s Humanities or click on www.unca.edu/culturalarts

Asheville Community Theatre Announces 2007 Haywood Open Studios Tour and American Sign Language Performances Open Studios Exhibit sheville Community Theatre ASL interpreted performances will aywood County artists open looks like, which tools the woodworker is proud to announce 6 be held on the first Sunday matinee their working studios to the needed to shape the legs for that table, American Sign Language (ASL) performance of each Mainstage public. Visit with the artist in how the potter formed that odd- performances for the 2007-08 production throughout the 2007-08 his/her working environment shaped pot, or get an inkling of what a season. The ASL interpreted season. Tickets are available online, by and see the creative process silversmith has to do to turn a flat sheet performances will be the phone, or in person at the Asheville first hand. of silver into a pendant or brooch. first ongoing signed theatre Community Theatre Box Office. Patrons See artist’s work at the The tour has been organized into Aperformances in the Asheville area and are encouraged to purchase a season HHaywood County Arts Council’s three Loop Tours: the Eastern Loop are funded in part by the Asheville Arts subscription in order to save up to 20% Gallery 86 at 86 North Main Street in includes Clyde, Canton and Cruso; the Council through their Grassroots Grant over single ticket prices. Downtown Waynesville. Downtown and Western Loop takes program. The second annual Haywood Open you from Downtown Waynesville out The Grassroots Grant awarded UPCOMING ASL PERFORMANCES Studios Tour is Saturday, October 6, 10- to the Balsam area; the Northern Loop Asheville Community Theatre (ACT) Disney’s Beauty and the Beast 5 p.m. and Sunday, October 7, 12-5 p.m. encompasses Maggie Valley, Jonathan $2000 to support artist stipends for two Sunday, September 16 at 2:30 pm The first tour in October of 2006 was Valley, Iron Duff and Lake Junaluska. sign language interpreters for all six 2007- Southern Hospitality an unqualified success and this year’s 08 Mainstage season productions. The Sunday, November 18 at 2:30 pm selection of artists Grassroots Grant, which is represented Wait Until Dark will once again by the Asheville Area Arts Council, Sunday, January 20, 2008 at 2:30 pm open the doors If you go is committed to enhance community of their studios focused arts projects and programming Schoolhouse Rock Live! and welcome the Open Studios Exhibit is September throughout North Carolina. Sunday, March 9, 2008 at 2:30 pm public to explore 19-October 22, 2007. Artists’ reception, This innovative program, which The Philadelphia Story the creative Friday, September 22 from 6-9 p.m. is the first of its kind in the Asheville Sunday, May 4, 2008 at 2:30 pm process. Art After Dark reception, October 5 Arts community, will begin with ACT’s I Hate Hamlet The tour from 6-9 p.m. production of Disney’s Beauty and Sunday, July 6, 2008 at 2:30 pm is a unique the Beast. The grant will provide on- opportunity Tour is free and open to the public. going ASL accommodations for future For more information about ASL to take a peek Pick up maps at Gallery 86, Haywood productions. “ACT is committed to performances, please contact Cate Foltin, into the work County Public Libraries, Visitor providing accessibility in all forms,” Managing Director at (828) 254-2939 or environments Centers, Chambers of Commerce, and said Cate Foltin, Managing Director. by email at [email protected]. of producing crafts people and artists. online at www.haywoodarts.org. “This grant will allow ACT to move 35 E. Walnut St. Asheville, NC 28801 How exactly did that artist achieve such Gallery 86 of the Haywood County forward in providing the best in theater Ph (828) 254-1320 Fax (828) 252-4723 a realistic landscape or capture that Arts Council, 86 North Main Street, for our diverse Western North Carolina www.ashevilletheatre.org particular quality of light? Waynesville, NC, 28786. Call (828) 452- audiences.” How nice to see what a handloom 0593 for further information.

30 September 2007 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 11, No. 1 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE For the latest reviews, theater info and movie show times, visit movies are www.rapidrivermagazine.com the coolest Brainwashed assassin Jason Bourne (Matt Damon) searches for clues to his identity in September Movies the flawless action film, with Marcianne Miller The Bourne Ultimatum.

world where the middle and upper class It’s the best movie so far this year. never would have given Ben a second ∑∑∑∑∑-Fantastic denizens spar with their wits, where a Masterfully crafted in every way — script, glance. ∑∑∑∑-Pretty darn good gesture speaks volumes, and no matter directing, cinematography and brilliant Eight weeks later — uh oh — Allison ∑∑∑ how cutting the words they’ve just performances from all, especially Matt is vomiting on the set — and then, -Has some good points spoken, men and women part with a bow Damon as the trained assassin Jason horrors — she discovers she’s pregnant. ∑∑-The previews lied and a curtsey. Compared to the vulgar Bourne who is seeking his memories Instead of rushing out and getting an ∑-Only if you must worlds of other summer romances (See and the identities of the men he has abortion, like her mother urges her to do, Knocked Up and Superbad reviews, for killed. That’s what sets this adventure and like any real unmarried Hollywood M-Forget entirely example), the world of Becoming Jane is apart from others — the violence is non- climber would do, Allison does the good so polite you long for the chance to fall in stop, inherent in the nature of the story thing and decides to have the baby. Even love before you fall in bed. itself, about a man who became a killing more astonishing, Allison tells Ben the Whether you want to laugh or cry, sit on Anne Hathaway (yes, the American machine, but the killing in The Bourne truth — allowing him the chance to the edge of your seat, get lovey-dovey, or ingénue of Princess Diaries and The Ultimatum differs from most other action act his age and do the noble thing by cringe in embarrassment, you’ll find local Devil Wears Prada fame) turns in a movies. It’s not nameless and faceless. sticking with her during the pregnancy. screens are full of end-of-summer films nuanced and captivating performance Humanity, even depraved humanity, But the path of babyhood never runs to match your moods. Critic Marcianne as Jane, one of two daughters of an has not completely been exterminated in smooth, especially when the couple is Miller rates the newest films. impoverished Anglican priest. “Nothing the world of these movies. Victims have totally mismatched — and that’s where destroys spirit like poverty,” her worried identities and killers, even brainwashed the humor — and the fantasies come in. father warns her, urging her to accept a ones like Jason Bourne, have seen so No one acts realistically in this movie marriage proposal offered by the nephew much blood spilled, that as they mature, — they all act nobly and nice — even of a wealthy widow. Jane refuses to marry they take pause before they pull the without love, however, even though she trigger. The result is a film that never might be headed for a fate worse than stops thinking even though it also never death — being an old maid. The movie stops pumping the adrenaline. Definitely imagines that Jane did fall in love once, see it on the big screen. with a brash Irish lawyer Tom Lefroy (Scott charmer James McAvoy, who Rated PG-13 for violence and intense played the faun in Chronicles of Narnia). sequences of action. recognition of who Their romance is doomed by the specter he’s killing and remorse. of poverty — Jane leaves him so he can marry well in Ireland and help support Knocked Up ∑∑∑∑1/2 Anne Hathaway stars as English his nine brothers and sisters there, but, Short take: A modern fairy tale about so the movie posits, the longing Tom novelist Jane Austen in the lovely nice people trying to do the right romance, Becoming Jane. awakened in Jane remained the creative spark for the rest of her life. Like romance thing. ∑∑∑∑ writer Ann Radcliffe whom she meets in It’s the sleeper hit of the summer, Becoming Jane 1/2 London, Jane hopes the time has come with almost unanimous praise for being Short take: So elegant, it makes you when a woman of talent can “have her the funniest movie of the year. That it mourn the passing of carriages and imagination buy her independence.” is. Even I, who have learned to be quite curtseys. dubious of the opinions of other critics, Jane Austen never married and died at Allison (Katherine Heigl) and Ben (Seth Feeling closely linked to my Irish age 41, leaving behind six of the most fell under the spell of its relentless good roots, I wasn’t an enthusiastic fan of nature. Rogen) get pregnant and then try to get highly praised novels in the English to know one another in Knocked Up. Jane Austen — while she was writing language. Her hard-won success inspired But let’s not get too carried away. her ironic Regency Era novels, her stiff generations of women writers who Knocked Up is not an accurate look at upper-lipped countrymen were starving followed, even some descended from the American mating game. It’s a male when they’re having temper tantrums. and stringing up my ancestors. Becoming Irish potato farmers. fantasy. In this fantasy Allison, a luscious And that’s Knocked Up’s charm — it’s Jane is such a lovely movie, however, entertainment TV reporter (the gorgeous laughing with nice people, not at them. and its portrayal of Austen the writer Rated PG for brief nudity and mild Katherine Heigl) gets drunk one night to See it with someone you’d like to like so compelling, that even I have become language. celebrate her promotion and takes home better and don’t worry — eventually the eager to dust off a few relics from my a guy she picked up in a singles bar. This pig-out gross language peters out. English Lit class. Through the nostalgic The Bourne Ultimatum is Ben Stone, an unemployed, overweight lens of Kinky Boots vets director Julian ∑∑∑∑∑ slaggart (played by Seth Rogen who wrote Rated R for sexual content, drug use and Jerrold and cinematographer Eigil Bryld, Superbad, remember that, and see the language. the English countryside, even with all its Short take: Violence with remorse review below) whose main occupation in mud-mired grunge, takes on an ethereal, — a rare action movie for mature life is getting stoned and being gross with timelessly elegant aura. Hampshire is a adults. his porno-obsessed pals. Sober, Allison ‘Movies’ continued on pg 32

Vol. 11, No. 1 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — September 2007 31 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE FILM REVIEWS

‘Movies’ continued from pg 31 is how long afterwards I think about it. I that hard, keep hope alive that long? Or saw Rescue Dawn two weeks ago and not would I take the easy way out and long a day has gone by that I don’t replay some for death or madness? of the scenes in my head — a definite Since the movie, I keep thinking of marker that the movie touched me on Senator John McCain, whose campaign many levels. Dieter Dengler is a German for presidency is now all but moribund. citizen who wanted to fly so much he He survived 5-1/2 years in a North joined the U.S. Navy. He’s played by Vietnamese POW camp and thus knows Welsh actor Christian Bale (Batman only too well what can happen to people Begins), who trimmed down 40 pounds during war, and to what degree of evil for the role. On his first mission, a secret human beings can sink to hurt one sortie over Laos, Dieter is shot down. another. Certainly a man with such He’s captured, tortured, offered release experience has opinions that don’t come but refuses to sign a false confession that to him lightly. If nothing else, such a man Claire Danes and Charlie Cox search condemns the U.S. which he loves, and should be listened to carefully before for cosmic love in the summer’s quirky Aishwarya Rai and Colin Firth show then ends up being held in a terrifying deciding not to agree with him. fantasy, Stardust. off their warrior finery in the historical prison camp with other POWS, who fantasy, The Last Legion. Rated PG-13 for some sequences of are either American military or Asian intense war violence and torture. (the king) and David Kelly (the guard employees of Air America flights. of the wall) make brief appearances and ∑∑∑∑ Eventually Dieter concocts a take- lots of fine actors show up in delightful The Last Legion 1/2 over of the camp and escapes with his Stardust ∑∑∑1/2 secondary roles. Short take: The Roman Empire is pal, Air Force pilot Duane (Steve Zahn, Short Take: Guys seem to love it. I Now that my praise is over…there collapsing but the last legion of Sahara), who has already endured almost didn’t. are two main things wrong with the Roman soldiers in Britannia helps two years in the camp. Through the movie. First, it’s like a handful of pearls create the legend of King Arthur. jungles of Laos in the rainy season, the My husband and Mountain Xpress without a string to tie them together. Too two men, shoeless, try to reach safety, movie critic Ken Hanke are almost much cleverness without a sense of unity. Aw, the critics have already killed always on opposite opinions of movies. this movie, so you better hurry to see it. and the journey is so horrendous that Fantasy filmmakers have to remember Dieter’s eventual rescue is a bittersweet If Ken hates a movie, Lonnie likes it. If that you can have only so many elements I loved it and the fact that it was directed Ken loves it, Lonnie grumbles that I am by a first-timer, American Doug Lefler, triumph. Director Werner Herzog is where you suspend disbelief before the famous for putting his actors through indulging in spousal abuse if I make him story turns into a mishmash. is astonishing. Utterly glorious sets and see it. Yet they both loved this movie — scenery, plenty of magic, a few megaliths, What else is wrong? Go ahead and I fussed and fidgeted and whined — I and hate me — major miscasting. mesmerizing photography, heart- couldn’t wait for the darn thing to end. stopping battle scenes, hordes of nasty The romantic leads are the two most Stardust is a fantasy (based on the forgettable lovers in cinema history. barbarians, brave Roman legionnaires novella by famous fantasy writer Neil from all points of the empire, a powerful There’s the aforementioned Charlie Fox Gaiman and artist collaborator Charlie who was so bland I can’t even remember wizard, a fetching mesh-masked dancing Vess) about a magical reality just beyond warrior, a courageous young orphan enough about him to complain. And a village wall. It’s about how true love the object of his affections, eventually, emperor — and even — surprise of all will find you even if it has to land on surprises, some humor — all combine is Yvaine, the star who has supposedly your head and knock you unconscious. fallen from the sky and can stay on to make The Last Legion a unique and And how, personified in the character thoroughly engrossing historical fantasy. earth if she falls in love — that’s Claire of young swain Tristan (Charlie Fox, Danes. What a marvelous actress she can The costuming deserves special note Casanova), a fellow doesn’t have to take — it’s breathtakingly fantastic, created be — she stole Shopgirl from veteran much initiative to be a hero. You just scene stealer himself, Steve Martin. But by Italian genius Paolo Scalabrino — and have to go for a walk and all kinds of wild for a change, the photography is bright lately (Evening, for example) Claire and quirky people will come into your can not seem to get a decent haircut enough to actually allow you to see the life — they make things happen so all you wardrobe artistry. (My beef with Harry Rescue Dawn director Werner Herzog or costume designer to save her life. have to do is react. Kind of like Passive In Stardust she looks like a thrift shop Potter films is they move too fast and makes sure his actors (Steve Zahn and Heroism for the 21st Century 101-A. are too dark to really appreciate all the Christian Bale) truly suffer during the blonde. As if that isn’t bad enough, she Arghghgh. insists on scrumping up her forehead into work that goes into their costuming filming of the movie in Thailand. English Director Matthew Vaughn and sets.) Colin Firth (Girl with a Pearl multitudinous wrinkles, so any close- hell to portray hellish stories, and Rescue (Layer Cake) has given Stardust many up of her is so unattractive you want to Earring) is completely awesome in his positive elements. The scenery, from leather legionnaire outfit and I would die Dawn is no exception. After this movie throttle her. you’ll never see the abbreviation POW Iceland and all over the UK, is so “Doesn’t Claire Danes’ wrinkly to try on Indian beauty Aishwarya Rai’s gorgeous it’s literally transcendent. The kick-butt Constantinople warrior getup. without shuddering and I now look forehead drive you nuts?” I asked my askance at my potted plants, knowing special effects are at times so astonishing husband in exasperation. “Don’t you Especially memorable is Ben Kingsley’s I can’t wait for the DVD to come out luminous sea-foam Merlin garb that how their big brothers can form barriers think she is a total turn-off?” as unbroachable as iron bars. to replay certain scenes, especially the “No, he said. “I think she’s seems to have been created from starlight. explosion of millions of shards of glass Don’t miss this one on the big screen. All the actors, especially Bale and beautiful.” Zahn, give unforgettable performances, in a ghostly castle at the end. Mostly I’ll It’s a guy thing. Rated PG-13 for sequences of intense made all the more impressive considering enjoy some of the performances. With action violence. the sweltering, bug-infested conditions every role she plays, Michelle Pfeiffer Rated PG-13 for some fantasy violence they worked in. The rescue is so long in (Hairspray) gets more exquisite — and and risqué humor. more wickedly hilarious. In Stardust she Rescue Dawn ∑∑∑∑1/2 coming, the twists of fate are so cruel, the value of life itself is so ephemeral in has created a flirty blood-thirsty witch Short Take: Brilliant acting and a that will steal your heart — if she doesn’t Should you spend your money on a recent such a war, that you find yourself being theatrical released movie that’s now out gripping story based on true inci- grateful that you can leave the darkened cut it out first. Robert De Niro (in his dents — escape from a POW camp funniest turn since Analyze That) is on DVD? Check our previous movie reviews theatre for the relative wonderfulness of at www.rapidrivermagazine.com. in Laos during the Vietnam War an asphalt-covered parking lot. You can’t Captain Shakespeare, the commander of — make for a haunting adventure. exit a movie like this without looking a flying pirate ship, who keeps secrets, Marcianne Miller is an Asheville-based Not for the faint of heart. long and hard at yourself afterwards. You so he thinks, hanging in the closet. writer and movie critic. Contact her at Marvelous old actors like Peter O’Toole For me, the mark of a good movie wonder, do I value life enough to struggle [email protected]

32 September 2007 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 11, No. 1 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE FILM REVIEWS

‘Movies’ continued from pg 32 mention of the real-life possibilities that can result from the drunkenness Hendersonville Film Society: culture — no word about venereal by Chip Kaufmann Superbad ∑1/2 disease, unwanted pregnancy, living September 2007 Short Take: Thoughtful moments in a wheelchair for the rest of your life on male friendship are overpow- — or dying and leaving your family in This month HFS offers its 8th not seen in theatres. ered by repulsive teen drinking grief for the rest of their lives. annual presentation of Classical This 3-hour version of Music in Movies, featuring some Amadeus is the way it culture. After a beginning that was right- on authentically awkward (the only old favorites not seen for many years was meant to be seen. The only thing I remember thing funnier than horny teenage and a special edition of Amadeus, With Tom Hulce and from freshman year in high school girls is horny teenage boys), the story with footage not shown in theatres. F. Murray Abraham. was the mantra of my philosophy descended into a farcical adventure of T DIR: Milos Forman. teacher. “Right is right when no one September 2: three hapless underage high school 1984 USA Color 180 minutes. is right and wrong is wrong when seniors on the search for booze for Unfaithfully Yours everyone is wrong.” Just because 99% a party so they can finally have sex of movie critics are raving about this An egotistical conductor believes his September 23: before they graduate and go their wife is having an affair. At a concert he movie doesn’t mean I shouldn’t tell separate ways. There was so much The Red Violin you I hated it. Teenagers are going visualizes how he will deal with her during mindless, irresponsible drinking that the pieces of music that he performs. After A story of mystery and obsession to see this movie no matter what I at some point in the middle of one of unfolds when an appraiser discovers a rare say. Which means parents should the concert, things do not go as planned. the many barf scenes, I stopped being It’s a sophisticated comedy classic. With violin at an auction house. As he uncovers see it. Yes, I am advising people to amused. I was literally nauseated by the history of the instrument, it forces him spend money on a movie I hate. Rex Harrison, Linda Darnell, and Edgar the time this movie ended. Were Kennedy. to rethink his priorities and that leads to Call me crazy. Call me concerned. there a few laughs in this so-called a surprising conclusion. A haunting and Since teenagers would rather die comedy? Yes, there are some clever DIR: Preston Sturges. complex film. With Samuel L. Jackson. than do anything as uncool as go to 1948 USA B&W 105 minutes. moments. Even more important, DIR: Francois Girard. a movie with their parents — that there are a few tender ones. So what? September 9: 1998 Canada Several languages w/subtitles A few diamonds in a manure pile Color 132 minutes. does not make a pretty picture. The Music Teacher The only reason to The reason I didn’t rate the see Superbad is Probably the most popular film in HFS September 30: movie with a total bomb is the history, this Belgian film about a retiring to catch the debut presence of one young actor named Carnegie Hall of adorable nerd opera singer and his two pupils is back after Christopher Mintz-Plasse who played a long absence. A beautiful work from start This heartfelt tribute to New York Christopher Mintz- the most earnest, most charming, City’s bastion of classical music features Plasse. to finish with music by Mahler, Schubert, most lovable movie nerd of all time. Schumann, Verdi and Bellini. With Jose van rare concert footage of Jascha Heifitz, Artur If you could just flash forward this Dam, Phillipe Volter and Anne Roussel. Rubinstein, Lilly Pons, Fritz Reiner, and movie to see only his scenes, I’d rate many others. The plot concerns an Irish means parents will have to wait until it with a full five stars. DIR: Gerard Corbiau. cleaning woman who works in the great it comes on out DVD. Then insist 1989 Belgium In French w/subtitles Color building and her son who grows up there. on watching it together (that’ll be an Rated R for pervasive crude and 94 minutes. With Marsha Hunt and William Prince. experience) and have a heart-to-heart sexual content, strong language, afterwards. drinking, some drug use and a September 16: DIR: Edgar G Ulmer. I don’t hate this movie because of fantasy/comic violent image - all 1947 USA B&W 136 minutes. its tiresomely incessant foul language involving teens. Amadeus (I have three brothers and married a This multi-award winning film version Marine). It’s not the premise that a of Peter Shaffer’s play about the rivalry Chip Kaufmann is President of the Hendersonville Film Society and hosts a dorky guy can somehow get a cool For the latest reviews, theater info between Mozart and Antonio Salieri is classical music program Thursday nights girl to like him (I can allow dorky and movie show times, visit presented here in the original director’s cut, male script writers to have their www.rapidrivermagazine.com which contains over 20 minutes of footage from 7-10 on public radio station WCQS. fantasies and this was written by the slobby romantic lead in Knocked Up). It’s not because teenage girls are too willing to forgive teenage boys for TEEN CORNER: Bratz is SO-O-O- Bad being jerks (I was a stupid teenage girl once.) No, it’s not that. What I hate about this movie is the message that getting drunk is so Bratz ∑ Bratz is a movie about hope. Only not the end, for they miss pervasive in high school and college Hollywood loves to four girls who start high each other and then team up against the that it’s okay if you do it, too. Getting stereotype teenagers. Too school as “LykE, bEsT big, shallow, mean girl until friendship drunk, so the “Let’s Party” rule goes, often we’re depicted as lazy, fRiEnDs 4eVaR!!!” (Hey, conquers all!! Okay, now the end... allows girls to feel inhibited enough moody, self- absorbed, and, this was how they were After seeing this film, which portrays to have sex with anyone and everyone of course, always hungry. portrayed in this film-- teenagers as superficial, phony freaks, and not feel guilty. And getting a As a teenager, I usually find flighty, shallow, and a little I was left wondering what kind of girl drunk is an okay thing for boys these stereotypes funny or too perky...) Once they get impression it was having on younger kids to do because, hey, it’s what all the annoying, but after seeing to school, however, they fall who will eventually become teenagers. other guys are doing and what the Bratz, I can see clueless into the clutches of Meredith, Are they going to think that being a teen girls won’t know won’t hurt them Hollywood filmmakers have Film fan and movie a power-hungry drama queen means being shallow and talking behind — they’re just girls. Besides, the most added two more stereotypes: critic Sierra Bicking (Chelsea Staub), who decides people’s backs? I sure hope not. Parents, important thing in life for a nerdy guy offensive and tedious. In lives in Asheville to break up the four friends don’t let your little kids see this movie! is to get another notch on his — er fact, Bratz’s version of the into different cliques. Of Bratz is a bad, bad film, but it did get — belt, right? teenage world is so-o-o bad, it makes course the girls fall right into the clichés, one thing right--its title fits perfectly. Wrong! Never once in this us ordinary lazy, moody, self-absorbed er, I mean cliques, and eventually end Rated PG for thematic elements. movie is there even the passing teenagers seem totally angelic! up hating each other...the end, you’d

Vol. 11, No. 1 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — September 2007 33 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE STAGE PREVIEW Immediate Theatre Project’s Production of ‘Copenhagen’ by Willie Repoley ince their inaugural production of their relationship heightened exponentially once we began Tennessee Williams’ The Glass into turmoil and talking in nuclear terms,” points out ITP Menagerie in 2004, Immediate sent Bohr and his Managing Director Lauren Fortuna. “The Theatre Project (ITP) has carved a wife into hiding. current talk of threats from rogue states, niche in local theatre by presenting Their strained from Iran and North Korea, concerns spare, high-quality productions that loyalties and shared over the difficulties in getting reliable re-discover the enormous power passions meet head intelligence — Bohr and Heisenberg were Sof classic American plays, including plays on in this historical in the thick of these same moral crises by Arthur Miller, Edward Albee, and last fantasy when, after at the very beginning of the nuclear age, year’s co-production with North Carolina death, they are before Hiroshima, even. We think the Stage Company of It’s A Wonderful confronted with play takes some very big, difficult issues Life: A Live Radio Play. The Asheville the opportunity to and presents them with a very appealing Citizen-Times says that the results are, finally make sense and human face.” “nothing short of amazing, with skilled of one of the great Local favorite Kay Galvin (Margrethe performances and superb storytelling” mysteries of their Bohr), who has played leading women (Tony Kiss, reviewing Miller’s All My friendship. in two previous ITP productions, will be Sons, 2006). “That the Kay Galvin (Margrethe Bohr), Earl Leininger (Niels Bohr), joined onstage by veteran regional actor This September, ITP tackles another play is based on and Lance Ball (Werner Heisenberg) Earl Leininger as Niels Bohr and Lance complex and compelling play that asks actual historic Ball as Werner Heisenberg. as many questions as it answers, and events is great, Copenhagen supposes one last chance demands more of its audience than but what is really exciting to us is that for the physicists, along with Bohr’s If you go simply sitting back to be entertained. the event of chief concern to the story is wife, to revisit the scene and finally try to Michael Frayn’s Tony Award winning a complete mystery,” says Hans Meyer, make sense of its many possibilities and Copenhagen runs at the BeBe Theatre Copenhagen (Best Broadway Play, 2000) Artistic Director of Immediate Theatre repercussions once and for all. September 20-30, 2007, at 7:30 Thursday- supposes an implosive post-mortem Project. The event in question is an That the underlying subject matter Saturday, and 2:00 on Sundays. confrontation between two of the 20th historical meeting of the two physicists — the creation, use, and mis-use of century’s most eminent physicists: Niels in Copenhagen, in the midst of World nuclear power — remains fodder for Tickets are $12-17, and are available at Bohr, a conservative and careful Jewish War II, that was extraordinarily difficult headline news to this day, is another www.immediatetheatre.org, or by phone Dane, and Werner Heisenberg, head- to achieve, and was shrouded in such factor in the play’s appeal to immediate at (800) 595-4849. There will be one pay- strong and opportunistic German. secrecy that neither man ever discussed theatre project. “The sense of danger what-you-can preview on September 19. Although once as close as father and the event in detail, to the lasting chagrin at never being completely sure who For more information, please visit www. son, the rise of the Nazi regime threw of historians and scientists alike. has what, in terms of weapons, was immediatetheatre.org

Western Carolina University Raises the Curtain on Its 2007-08 Season

estern Carolina University is Carlo.” Timid shoe salesman Harry musical tells the story of Nathan Detroit, ready to raise the curtain on Witherspoon learns by telegram that he who makes a bet with his friend Sky If you go its 2007-08 theatre season as has inherited the fortune of his Uncle Masterson that he can’t make the next the University Players hit the Tony, an Atlantic City casino manager, woman he sees fall in love with him. The Season tickets are on sale now. Prices for stage with three full-length under one condition — Witherspoon amusement begins when Sarah Brown, season tickets are $55 for adults, $40 for selections—“The Nerd,” must take his uncle’s preserved body on the neighborhood missionary, is the first senior citizens and Western faculty and “Lucky Stiff” and “Guys and Dolls”—as vacation to Monte Carlo. With script doll Masterson sees. “Guys and Dolls” is staff, and $20 for students. wellW as a Festival of One Acts. and lyrics by Lynn Ahrens and music by based on Damon Runyon’s short story Memberships also are available for the Opening the season is Larry Shue’s Stephan Flaherty, “Lucky Stiff” will run “The Idyll of Miss Sarah Brown,” and Patron Club, which provides additional “The Nerd,” a side-splitting comedy November 8-11. was created by authors Joe Swerling financial support to the University about a Vietnam veteran named Willum Set for February 21-24 is the and Abe Burrows, and musician Frank Players and its activities. Memberships Cubbert who wants to repay Rick Broadway musical “Guys and Dolls,” Loesser. are available at the Actor ($250), Director Steadman, the man who saved The season will close with the ($500) and Producer ($1,000) levels. All his life. When the fellow ex-GI- Festival of One Acts, a collection membership levels offer tickets to all turned-nerd shows up on Cubbert’s of one-act plays performed by productions, and much of the cost of doorstep for an extended stay, students. Directed by students from membership is tax deductible. Cubbert is taken on the ride of “The Nerd,” “Lucky Stiff” WCU’s advanced directing class, the his life and is left to bring order to performances will range from classic For more information about season tickets Steadman’s disasters. Directed by and “Guys and Dolls” to contemporary works, and will run or Patron Club memberships, contact Stephen Michael Ayers, associate April 9-13. the Fine and Performing Arts Center professor of theatre arts, “The All shows will stage in Hoey box office at (828) 227-2479 or visit Nerd” will stage September 26-30. Auditorium, with the exception wcutheatre.ticketsxchange.com “Lucky Stiff,” directed by Charlie directed by Broadway star Terrence of “Guys and Dolls,” which will be in Tickets will be available for individual Flynn McIver, artistic director of the Mann, the Carolyn Plemmons Phillips the Fine and Performing Arts Center. productions. N.C. Stage Company, is a musical based and Ben R. Phillips Distinguished Evening performances and weekend on Michael Butterworth’s mystery “The Professor of Musical Theatre at Western. matinees are available. Man Who Broke the Bank at Monte Set in New York in the 1940s, the

34 September 2007 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 11, No. 1 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE STAGE PREVIEW Step Afrika! Kicks Off UNC Asheville’s Cultural & Special Events Season

NC Asheville’s 2007-08 Cultural Other events in the 2007-2008 and Special Events season performing arts season include kicks off with a bang - make performances by the Regina Carter that a well-timed thump. The Quintet, Aquila Theatre Company, the acclaimed dance troupe Step Langston Hughes Project, Aviv String Afrika! will get the season started Quartet and modern dancers Eiko & at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 7, Koma. Uin UNC Asheville’s Lipinsky Auditorium. For more information about the Step Billed as the first professional Afrika! performance or UNC Asheville’s company in the world dedicated to Cultural and Special Events season, call stepping, Step Afrika! brings high-energy (828) 251-6991 or click on www.unca. moves to audiences around the world. edu/culturalarts/. Their repertoire ranges from stepping to tap to traditional African dances including Zulu and gumboot, while also If you go incorporating clogging, hip-hop, house and freestyle dancing in their shows. General admission tickets are $15 and go This Washington-based company has on sale August 27. To reserve tickets by met with critical acclaim. A Washington phone, call UNC Asheville’s Highsmith Post review said, “The performers University Union Box Office at (828) — equally adept at complex stepping, 232-5000. dancing, and most vital, acting — drove For information about purchasing group the crowd to whoops and hollers.” tickets, call (828) 251-6991.

Asheville Puppetry Alliance Presents ‘Alice’ Star Linda Lavin to Perform at ‘The Emperor’s New Clothes’ WCU on September 8 by Jessica Cregger hat’s big and pink and Museum of Art and The Smithsonian loves to dress up in fancy Institution’s Discovery Theatre. ctress and singer “Law and Order: clothes? Give up? It’s They have been awarded a Citation Linda Lavin, Criminal Intent” and the Emperor himself in of Excellence from the US affiliate of a star of stage “The Sopranos.” She Grey Seal Puppets’ Union Internationale de la and screen with has taught master’s clever adaptation Marionette (UNIMA). a Tony and classes at New York of The Emperor’s Asheville Puppetry two Golden University’s performing WNew Clothes. Not only is this Alliance is a non-profit arts Globe awards arts department and Emperor big and pink, he just organization which builds Ato her credit, will be created an arts school happens to be a pig. community, honors diversity performing at Western for girls in Wilmington The Hans Christian through cultural exchange, and Carolina University called The Linda Lavin Andersen story takes on a whole celebrates the interdependence at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Foundation. new dimension as this classic of all life through sharing Sept. 8, in the Fine and The Sept. 8 show, tale is transformed into a fable. the ancient art of puppetry Performing Arts Center. titled “Songs and The crafty tailors are foxes; with children and adults in Lavin, most widely Confessions of a One- the prime minister is a near- Western North Carolina. “The known for starring as Time Waitress,” is a sighted camel; and the councilor Emperor’s New Clothes” the title character in the one-woman theatrical is a befuddled old walrus. Even the is the first in a series of three puppet 1976-1985 television concert that reflects audience takes part, as animals, of shows for The Young Audience Series. series “Alice,” also on Lavin’s career and course. honed her performing skills in Broadway personal life, including an audience Children will recognize the and off-Broadway plays, and through question-and-answer period. Emperor as a vain ruler who easily falls telefilms, sitcoms and other television for the tailors’ story of a magic cloth. If you go appearances. Those who can see the cloth are smart In addition to her Tony Award If you go and good at what they do. Those who Asheville Puppetry Alliance presents for best actress in “Broadway Bound” Season subscriptions for the 2007-2008 can’t see the cloth are not fit for their Grey Seal Puppets performing The and two Golden Globe Awards for her jobs and should be fired. It takes the Galaxy of Stars: Something for Everyone Emperor’s New Clothes performances in “Alice,” Lavin won Series are on sale now. honesty of a child to see what they Drama Desk Awards for “Little Murders” really are. Friday September 28 at 10:00 am & Sat. and “Broadway Bound,” a Theatre Individual tickets will go on sale Monday, Characters and costume designs September 29, 2007 at 11:00 am World Award for “Wet Paint,” the best Aug. 20, at $25 for adults ages 18 and were inspired by the illustrations of Diana Wortham Theatre at Pack Place actress Obie and Lucille Lortel awards older, $20 for senior citizens ages 60 or Janet Stevens in The Emperor’s New www.dianaworthamtheatre.com for “Death-Defying Acts,” and the best older, $20 for WCU faculty and staff, Clothes published by Holiday House. Tickets are $8.00 for Adults / $5.00 for actress Outer Critics and Saturday Review $15 for groups of 15 or more, and $5 for Founded in 1976, Grey Seal Students & Seniors awards for “Little Murders.” students. Puppets performs over 250 shows a For Reservations Call (828) 257-4530 More recently, Lavin performed in For more information or to purchase year at theatres such as The Center For “Hollywood Arms” in 2002 and appeared tickets, contact the Fine and Performing Puppetry Arts in Atlanta, The Detroit www.ashevillepuppetry.org on the television series “The O.C.,” Arts Center box office at (828) 227-2479.

Vol. 11, No. 1 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — September 2007 35 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE September 2007 Events & Workshops September 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Earthaven EcoVillage Tour, Black Mountain, NC. Call first (828) 669-3937 * www.earthaven.org September 8 OrganicFest * 10am - 6pm “Celebrating Everything Organic” Next to Grove Arcade in Downtown Sustainable Living Resource for WNC • Vol. 2, No. 4 • September 2007 Asheville (828) 253-2267 www.organicfest.org September 12 New WNC Sustainable Energy Council Green Building Products & Materials Workshop, part of Green Building by Byron Belzak - Photos ©2007 MediaBear 101; 1-5pm; YMCA Blue Ridge Gives Citizens Greater Voice Center, Black Mountain, NC. new coalition of local and plan to build a new oil burning power efficiency and conservation issues over a Contact Rachel Della Valle regional environmental and plant in Buncombe County earlier this two-year period. [email protected] activist organizations kicked year. In late May, 2007, Progress Energy (828) 254-1995 * www.wncgbc.org off its first meeting at the Progress Energy and its supporters announced its appointed panel. It includes September 15 recent Southern Energy and were roundly defeated by an effective Terry Albrecht (Waste Reduction Active Solar Hydronic Space Heating Environment Expo (SEE EXPO) and swift grassroots effort that opposed Partners); Edna Campos (Edna Campos 9am-4pm; Fred Stewart, Instructor: on Friday, August 24, 2007. The the proposed Woodfin, North Carolina, & Associates); Robin Cape (Asheville Amission of the new group, known as the power plant. Some of those who were City Council); Vernon Daugherty (A-B Renewable Energy Initiative (WNCREI), Appalachian State Univ., Sustainable Energy Council of Western involved with halting Progress Energy Tech); Patrick Fitzsimmons (American Boone, NC * [email protected] North Carolina, is to give more power Woodfin’s plans are founding members of Red Cross); Lee Galloway (Waynesville (828) 262-7333 to citizens who desire more responsive the new Council. town manager); David Gantt (Buncombe www.wind.appstate.edu and responsible government and energy The new Sustainable Living Council County Board of Commissioners); policy-making, particularly at the local of WNC advocates for more citizen Harry Harrison (YMI Cultural Center); September 21 and state levels. representation in business decisions of Dave Hollister (Sundance Power Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC SEC-WNC members and panelists the public utility that directly affects the Systems); Karl Kuchta (Unimen); Jeff Block) 1 Day Workshop; 10am-5pm included well-known activists and health, finances, and quality of life of Loven (French Broad EMC); Rick at SafeCrete Ringgold, GA; involved citizens. Members of the the entire community. The Council is Lutovsky (Asheville Area Chamber of (706) 965-4587 * www.safecrete.com Council said the new group is not not affiliated with Commerce); Margie Meares a merger of various organizations, a WNC Advisory (Clean Air Community September 22 - 23 rather a task force to speak in a more Panel of well- Trust); John Oswald Abundant Renewable Energy ARE110 unified voice about energy policy in known individuals (Mills Manufacturing); Installation Workshop; Appalachian the region. It invites more individuals that Progress Chuck Pickering (Biltmore State University’s Wind Energy and representatives of a variety of Energy assembled Estate); Michael Shore Demo Facility, Beech Mountain, NC; organizations to join the Council. in June 2007 (Environmental Defense); Contact: Brent Summerville; The Woodfin Power Plant Controversy after the Woodfin Lavoy Spooner (AT&T), [email protected]; (828) 262-2933 controversy. and Paul Szurek (Biltmore www.wind.appstate.edu The group was formed partly because Farms). of an organized, but diverse, grassroots The Progress September 28 - 30 efforts that stopped Progress Energy’s Energy Panel What SEC-WNC’s 1st True Nature Country Fair, proposed Woodfin power plant. Earlier Progress Energy Founding Members Say Sustainable living celebration; this year Progress Energy officials, indicated that its Mary Olson of Nuclear Deerfields in Mills River, NC, politicians and bureaucrats, who back new own relatively newly Information and Resource 20 miles south of Asheville; fossil-fuel-burning plants in the face of formed WNC Mary Olson, (828) 342-1849 global warming concerns, did not consult Advisory Panel Nuclear Information and ‘Sustainable Energy [email protected] area citizens prior to announcing their will tackle energy Resource Service Council’ continued on pg 37 www.organicgrowersschool.org

The Greener Home “Greener is Better” Vol. 2, No. 4

publisher-editor: Byron Belzak art director: Simone Bouyer The Greener Home is a MediaBear publication, in print and online at www.TheGreenerHome.com Please write to: MediaBear, PO Box 1040, Skyland, NC 28776 sales and editorial: (828) 768-5600 e-mail: [email protected]

Copyright 2007 MediaBear All Rights Reserved www.ArtAsheville.com www.WNCTraveler.com 36 September 2007 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 11, No. 1 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE THE GREENER HOME

‘Sustainable Energy Council’ community, and the business-as- of Dogwood Alliance; Leni Sitnick, continued from pg 36 people who have usual voice. To former Mayor of Asheville, and Josh expertise in electrical limit the [energy] Tager of Electric Solutions, Inc. Service (NIRS), one of the founding and energy issues, decision-making members of the new Council and an and people who powers to business It’s All About Having A Voice outspoken opponent of the Woodfin socially feel the and corporate Ned Ryan Doyle, founder of SEE plant, opened SEC-WNC’s press effects of the way we America is foolish.” EXPO and a founding member of conference and first public meeting currently produce Fireman did the new Council, was instrumental in shortly before the official start of the 7th energy. This is a not believe that spearheading opposition to Progress Annual SEE EXPO, which was held at unique group in that market forces could Energy’s proposed Woodfin oil-fired the North Carolina Agricultural Center we have a unique work sufficiently power plant. In an exclusive interview across from the Asheville Regional focus on involving fast to reverse the with The Greener Home Sustainable Airport. the community in the detrimental and Living Resource (www.thegreenerhome. Said Olson: “Our energy future decision of how we growing effects of com), Doyle explained the importance of does not depend on new power plants. meet future energy climate change. “We the Council’s mission. Our energy future does not depend demands. ... We need citizens to “The Sustainable Energy Council on fossil fuels. Our energy future does are sort of a think assume their civic of Western North Carolina is an not depend on nuclear energy. Instead, tank and ... are, in responsibility and opportunity for citizens to be pivotal in our energy future is something that we a sense, a political become voices for a energy production, because it impacts our Dave Holister, environment and economic structure,” can determine as a creative process of entity, because we are Sundance Power Systems sane energy policy. renewable energy combined with really trying to involve the We have about 10 said Ned Doyle. “Until now there has smart use of energy; otherwise known community and bring years to accomplish effectively been no input from the people as energy efficiency, and the distributed political pressure to bear on the [energy] this. ... Hopefully, we can become a most affected by energy policy. It is time generation of power rather than the decision-makers. [We want] to involve model for the rest of the nation.” for everyone to have a voice at the table. centralized generation of power.” the community in these decisions.” Elaine Lite of Mountain Voices “It is time for us to work together to Members of the newly formed SEC- Another founding SEC-WNC Alliance and an Asheville City Council plan an energy future that makes sense WNC, who spoke at the council’s first member, Dave Hollister of Sundance candidate said: - that not only provides a public meeting, intend to offer energy Power Systems, said: “There are “Sustainability is the key, return to the stakeholder, policy advice and recommendations to conflicting messages that are coming and we must address it but is good for the all levels of decision-making in Western out of Progress Energy.” He said that much, much sooner than environment, the people, North Carolina. while some within Progress are working later.” and the future. It is an Some of the WNC to include renewables, Other founding opportunity for all of us Council members there are other employees members of SEC- to work together to make indicated that while who are “politically WNC, who were not a difference ... and to get the group intends to be trying to gut legislation in attendance at the across the concept that cooperative, it would [that contains] a hard- first public meeting, energy, environment and not accept the status hitting renewable energy include: Don Baker of economics are three sides quo from policy-makers portfolio.” Wenoca Group of the to the same coin.” who ignore health Richard Fireman Sierra Club; Ian Booth of Non-member guest and economic issues of the North Carolina Sustainable Now; Jody panelists, who were that affect the entire Council of Churches and Flemming of Western Ned Doyle, Southern Energy invited by the Council community. Interfaith Power and Light, North Carolina Alliance; and Environment Expo to speak given their Avram Friedman of said time is of the essence. Bryan Freeborn, Asheville expertise, included Hope the Canary Coalition, a Fireman, who is also editor City Council member Taylor-Guevara of Clean founding member of the of SustainableWNC. and Top Floor Studio spokesperson Water for NC and Margie Meares of Council, said, “What we org, which is affiliated for McNutt Service Group’s newly Clean Air Community Trust. are trying to do is involve with the Mountain Area announced solar installation services At the press conference, Taylor- every aspect of the Information Network of Appalachian Energy systems; Mike Guevara said: “[We want to draw] community - the business (M.A.I.N.), said, “There Hopping of Common Sense at the public awareness to the acuteness of our community, the medical Avram Friedman, is an urgency, and a voice Nuclear Crossroads; Sage Linden of centralized energy electrical generation community, the academic Canary Coalition needs to be heard above SustainableAsheville.org; Scott Quaranda model on water. Most folks have no

Vol. 11, No. 1 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — September 2007 37 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE THE GREENER HOME Automotive Manufacturers Must ‘Go Green’ Faster, Says Deloitte Compiled by Byron Belzak - Photo ©2007 MediaBear

arlier this year at the 2007 enterprises that deliver measurable now run the risk of North American International benefits to their host communities, while being compromised Auto Show (NAIAS), Deloitte still providing solid returns for their or even eliminated.” Consulting LLP delivered a red shareholders.” According to flag to automobile companies that Deloitte Consulting also reported at Deloitte Consulting, are asleep at the wheel. Deloitte the 2007 NAIAS Inforum Automotive a company that goes stated that “companies are falling Breakfast “sustainability is quickly green can be defined Eshort in recognizing the impact of a becoming a crucial business strategy as instituting a set critical business component for survival: for manufacturers looking to adapt the of core principles ‘going green’.” green model. Driven by a convergence of whereby: (1) waste is Deloitte, known worldwide for factors - including increasing regulation, reduced, eliminated its audit, tax, consulting and financial changing customer expectations, or reused (2) net advisory services, defines “going green” competitor advances, value chain partner consumption of as those automotive manufacturers requirements, brand equity protection resources (capital, that “generate increased value through and risk management - sustainability human or natural) reduced impact on the environment ... [as has begun driving improved value into for a specific product well as”] ... draw the most customers, the leading companies.” or service outcome best talent, and long-term health” even is reduced (3) in the face of rapid global change and “Going Green” is America’s consumed resource heighten competition. Growth Engine is partially or Christopher Park, Principal, Deloitte Park said that companies must completely replaced Progress Energy added a “plug-in” Toyota Prius Consulting, said, “Today there is clear move in the direction of creating and (4) the ratios of to its fleet to evaluate its performance. and growing support for the idea that maintaining a culture of “sustainable natural to man-made companies can transform themselves into transformation” to remain competitive, and organic to synthetic are increased and ‘Auto Manufacturers’ environmentally and socially responsible adding, “companies that do not invest (5) the net global impact footprint (GIF) is continued on pg 39

38 September 2007 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 11, No. 1 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE THE GREENER HOME

‘Auto Manufacturers’ vehicles get between 70-100 miles per ‘Sustainable Energy Council’ the way to energy independence, energy continued from pg 38 gallon, double the fuel economy of continued from pg 36 security, energy prosperity, energy justice many regular hybrid cars. and a healthier region.” reduced. Progress Energy, headquartered in idea that our state’s coal and nuclear The Council’s complete mission In short, Deloitte Consulting Raleigh, NC, said that it partnered with plants withdraw over nine billion gallons statement and call to action for citizens forwarded the increasingly mainstream Raleigh-based Advanced Energy and of water a day.” She said that energy and interested organizations is posted on idea “going green is America’s growth Advanced Vehicle Research Center to companies do not do a good job of its new website at www.sec-wnc.org. engine for the 21st century” and those convert its hybrid Prius into a plug-in conservation programs, because “it is an Cliffside Coal Plant Opposition “automotive manufacturers who ignore vehicle. The vehicle will be charged at intrinsic conflict of interest.” night when the demand for electricity is In an unrelated citizen call to ‘green’ will do so at their financial peril.” Margie Meares said: “I think this is action by area and state environmental lower and it will be ready to run when a tremendously important effort.” She Progress Energy’s Fleet the workday starts. grassroots organizations, a draft of a flyer said that American society needs to fully called for citizens to “Help Stop Cliffside Gets a Little Greener The same advanced technology understand and incorporate the real cost is used in a new hybrid school bus Coal Plant!” It encouraged people to In mid-July 2007, Progress of energy in terms of ecological costs attend an upcoming public hearing Energy took advantage of the evolving sponsored by Progress Energy and [and] human costs, and doing so will Advanced Energy for the Wake County in Rutherford County on Tuesday, automotive technology. It added one allow citizens to find and insist upon the September 18, at 6 p.m. at Chase High plug-in hybrid electric vehicle to its school system. Progress Energy has also best energy solutions. added a new International hybrid bucket School, 1603 Chase High School Road, fleet for evaluation purposes. It intends Several Council members said that Forest City, NC 28043. to charge the vehicle during off-peak truck to its fleet and evaluation process. the energy consumption must be radically periods. In the coming months, employees reduced in the mountains and throughout Progress improved upon the basic will drive the plug-in Prius across the United States, as much as an 80 If you go design and specially outfitted its car so Progress Energy’s service area to percent reduction within approximately it would get up to 100 miles per gallon. shows and events to promote this new 10 years. For carpooling and additional The plug-in Toyota Prius is similar to technology. The car recently appeared at The group’s press release that information, contact: Clean Water for standard hybrid vehicles, but can run the Southern Energy and Environment announced its first meeting stated: “We all North Carolina (Asheville), info@cwfnc. twice as long with lower emissions Expo (SEE EXPO). The car’s need a sustainable energy future - and an org, (828) 251-1291, or Environment due to an enhanced battery pack. The performance will be closely evaluated to energy future that does not include new and Conservation Organization automobile’s batteries are re-charged determine future plug-in opportunities coal, other fossil fuels, or new nuclear (Hendersonville), director@clean-air- by plugging the car into a standard and applications for the company’s fleet. power plants is not only desirable, it is coalition.org, (828) 692-0385. electrical socket. Plug-in hybrid electric – Copyright 2007 MediaBear possible. The SEC-WNC will help lead – Copyright 2007 MediaBear

Vol. 11, No. 1 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — September 2007 39 Enjoy Good Food • Live Entertainment Lunch • Dinner *Live Entertainment* Sat. and Sun. Southern Style Brunch www.JerusalemGardenCafe.com

78 Patton Ave. • D owntown Asheville (828) 254-0295 • (828) 254-0255

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