this issue Downtown Developments Tommy Sexton Benefit Rock climbing film Breach Postdata Review | Do YouMONARITA Think You Preview Can Dance? | From Paris With Love | At The Rock House Bishop Brigante Bishop CD Release the Diamond Minds Matthew Hornell and
February 19th - March 5th Volume 12, Issue 3 February 19th - March 5th, 2010 Snaps Sinfully Seductive Fashion Show at the Majestic Designs by Intimate Desires and Angelle Apparel, produced by Lynette White Photographer: Apryl Stead
CURRENT | Page 2 February 19th - March 5th, 2010
current team
Editor Contributors Joshua Jamieson Stephanie Abbott [email protected] Richard Burnett Tim Conway [email protected] Gina Gill Jonny Hodder Advertising Sales Dave Lane [email protected] Tara Lehman Gary Moore Production & Design Charissa Reeves Josey Vogels Joshua Jamieson Debby Winters Kevin Woolridge Distribution Barry Ross Publisher Marketing Services Ltd. P.O. Box 693 Pouch Cove, NL A0A 3L0 www.currentmag.ca
Editorial The Opposition By Kevin Woolridge
CURRENT | Page 3 February 19th - March 5th, 2010
activism Committee for a Happy City The St. John’s Waltz towards developing downtown By Dave Lane
Recently a group of citizens organized and hosted walk-able streets where people can meet and shop. a public meeting under the name Smart Growth and Urban Development; its mandate to engage Mary Walsh then took to the podium to give a lively St. John’s citizens in a discussion of planning and recount of her experience growing up, witnessing development. While the discussion focused on the the changes in downtown St. John’s. She said broad ideas of urban planning, its timing coincided some previous controversial developments have not with the hot-topic of the day: new, large development brought about the promised benefits. proposals for the historic downtown of St. John’s. Proposed 15 storey Fortis Development squandering the most well-known and celebrated Ron Hynes performed St. John’s Waltz to kick off, area of the city. reminding the overflowing room of over 300 who sang along that “This is our town.” Elena Patarini, architect The meeting was just another component of a much and urban planner, is a new-comer to St. John’s and larger debate. Some have noted the meeting seemed was the first speaker, sharing her experience of urban one sided; indeed, its purpose was to discuss “smart planning and how it can benefit a city. She spoke growth” rather than piecemeal development. But about determining an “urban identity” and how that people from all walks of life were in attendance. In can serve as basis for all development. fact, St. John’s Board of Trade representatives and most city councilors attended. Strat Canning discussed his involvement with Proposed development for downtown (west) developing the existing Downtown Strategy along where high rises are encouraged With the entire community engaged, it’s the hope with the economic incentives to nurture the “jewel” of the meeting’s organizers that the discussion that is so unique. The main obstacle to smart growth The floor was then opened to all for questions and will continue, armed with facts and points of view, downtown, he said, is City Hall’s non-inclusive shared views. Many spoke of preserving what is around dinner tables, water coolers, open line shows, development application process. special about downtown. At times, the contentious newspapers, and online at www.happycity.ca. Fortis proposal came up; although the general Dave Hopley, local retailer, shared his experience as consensus was that most were not anti-development. This is indeed our City, and everyone deserves to a business owner. He said downtown has become Rather, people want to preserve the small section have a say in its future. livelier with every passing year in the last decade, of downtown that has always been a vibrant, social and feels the most important asset is the sense of marketplace where people meet, walk and shop. community. He added that retail is strengthened by Many worry that there might be the mistake of
directed by aiden flynn set design word up Searching for Meaning geoff adams An Academic Look at The Newfoundland Fishery michael worthman sound design By Gina Gill kim codner sean panting The Fishery. The Including how wars were affected, and how episodes lighting design livelihood, doom, influenced certain aspects of today. Many of the brian bishop everything and nothing younger generation don’t realize the invested role production management left for Newfoundland Newfoundland had in WWII – to the point that it even courtney brown and Labrador. However hit home, numerous times. Newfoundlanders obviously sylina jones its put, the fish have know there was involvement, but this anthology gives a creon been a long standing specific review of detailed events. sean panting means from natural antigone sarah browne resources and it is what This anthology is not a plotted out storybook, but a originally brought those documentary, an academic review. Most of the authors + MUN Drama sophocles’ Europeans over here have worked or written for Memorial University. But in the first place. What there is nothing better than the best. These writers went down way back know more as a collective than one could ever know antigone when? How did the beginning of the fishery lead unfold about everything that has happened to Newfoundland to the current situation and how is the lack of policy in and what to do with it all. February 27th and 28th the past creating new policies today? 8:00 pm, at the As much as some may not be interested in the fishery, Reid Theatre in the God Guard Thee Newfoundland: Searching for Meaning or think they know a lot about it- there is so much Arts and Administration Building of Memorial published by Flanker Press, explores the fishery of the more to know. It’s the foundation of Newfoundland and University. past and present, discussed in an anthology written by everyone should be a contributor to our community. Pay-What-You-Can matinee historians and journalists. A review of what plan could In order to survive what has become of us, the people 2:00 pm February 28th be made for the future is made as well as how current must be at least aware of how it has come to be. Tickets are available by decisions and past circumstances have shaped the calling 739-8220 situation of today. With a wide variety of authors, God Guard Thee or emailing Newfoundland, is not your typical blah blah academic [email protected] God Guard Thee Newfoundland also takes a look research, but a brevity of variety and a valuable at Newfoundland’s history outside of the fishery. resource, as well as an interesting view on history.
CURRENT | Page 4 February 19th - March 5th, 2010
Review My Name is Rachel Corrie Edited by Alan Rickman & Katharine Viner; Dir. by Jessie Fraser By Stephanie Abbott Forest Productions recent staging of My Name is inevitably be snuffed out. The audience is hearing Rachel Corrie brings to life the story of a young Rachel’s own words throughout the show and are idealist whose life was cut tragically short at the age given a glimpse of her at the plays conclusion when a of twenty three. The American peace activist was video of her at age ten is shown. crushed to death by a bulldozer while protesting in an attempt to stop a home from being demolished in In the video, young Rachel speaks eloquently of Gaza. The script is taken from Rachel Corrie’s own her dreams of ending hunger and giving the poor a diaries and e-mails, edited by Alan Rickman and chance. The play leaves its audience mourning the Katharine Viner. life of a person who so desired to prompt change. It’s hard not to wonder what Rachel would have been The play is a portrait of a driven, passionate young able to accomplish if her life had continued. Those in woman. Rachel Corrie had big dreams to change the attendance on opening night seemed visibly moved world and Mikaela Dyke captures the essence of her by the story even though parts of the play moved a spirit completely. She is all youthful enthusiasm as little slowly at times. she jots notes, makes lists and types franticly on her laptop. Mikaela’s lyrical voice enhances the innocent The play has been steeped in controversy from the earnestness of the Rachel Corrie at the beginning of beginning and has been accused of being one-sided the production. and more like a eulogy. But, really, the play doesn’t seem to be trying to accomplish anything more then As the action moves from her Olympia, Washington to honestly portray of a young idealist. Rachel’s bedroom to the Middle East the tension builds and politics aren’t presented to be anything else but there is a sense of a loss of that innocence. Mikaela her own opinions which make it hard to understand attacks the role with an admirable intensity and clearly why some theatre companies might be reluctant to connects with the character. stage productions of the play because of potential controversy. The play doesn’t exactly take sides, it Much of the play’s power comes from the audience’s just aims to present what Rachel thought; it is her awareness of the vibrant young life which will story told in her own words. Dance Do you think you can dance? Neighbourhood Dance Works revs up for live auditions By Johsua Jamieson
Neighbourhood Dance your 15 minutes of fame. There will be live auditions Works is well known at the Arts and Culture Centre on February 21 from in the St. John’s metro 9am - 5pm. area and province for bringing innovative Soloists, duos and groups are all welcome to take dance and performance part, as long as everyone is 14 or older. Following focused presentations the audition process will be a dance showcase, also to audiences since it at the Arts and Culture Centre on March 8, hosted by was kicked off in 1981 Kelly Ann Evans. by Cathy Ferri. The latest project lives up Awards will be handed out for Best YouTube Video, to those high standards Best Solo or Duet, Best Group and a Dance Spirit for creativity as Award. Choreographers will get the chance to Neighbourhood Dance prepare one of the group performances that will be Works prepares to presented that evening, being given only four hours to Heather gives some present Do You Think get their steps together. dance attitude You Can Dance? This whole event will serve as a fundraiser for the Unlike the popular television series So You Think upcoming 2010 season that Neighbourhood Dance You Can Dance, the initiative and opportunity Works has lined up, which includes the flagship from Neighbourhood Dance Works will also seek Festival of New Dance. choreographers as well as dancers - and of course they’re looking for a sponsor or two as well. Interested dancers and choreographers can email [email protected] to request an audition The auditioning process started online from February appointment and YouTube auditions are available by 1 - 14 with uploaded videos to YouTube. All hope isn’t looking up the ndanceworks channel. lost though if you’re reading along getting excited for
CURRENT | Page 5 February 19th - March 5th, 2010
film Breach A Newfoundland Climbing Film by Trevor Harris BY Gary Moore
There’s a lifestyle in Shot mostly in Newfoundland and Labrador, some Newfoundland Labrador parts of Breach were also shot in Squamish, BC. that many are unaware Newfoundland and Labrador has a lot of climbable sea of which is widely cliffs, which is rare, Harris explains, “this makes the popular. In fact it’s climbing very exposed - which adds a higher mental popular enough to have requirement. Squamish is known world-round for its made its way to film. variety and volume. They have embraced the climbing community there and it’s great to see.” “Climbing is non- competitive and very “As far as learning how to direct - I’ve learned not to,” Trevor Harris on “Cat Crack” in Squamish, BC challenging (mentally explains Harris who admits Breach is the biggest project Photo Credit: Alexe Hanlon and physically). It’s he’s taken on. Harris has annually filmed rock-climbing grown to be an integral competitions at Wallnuts but with a project as big as Breach is hopefully destined for film festivals. Already part of who I am. It’s Breach he got into a rhythm. Harris has been approached by Sir Wilfred Grenfell much more than a sport College’s Sustainability Week, and intends to submit - it’s a lifestyle. That’s “When I first started filming I was looking for very to the Vancouver Mountain Film Festival as well as the what this film is based specific things. I soon realized that I needed to be much Banff Mountain Film Festival. Belayer, Paul Chaisson on,” explains Trevor less aggressive in my approach and just let things unfold Photo Credit: Trevor Harris Harris – a Climber and as they naturally would. That’s exactly what I did.” Breach: A Newfoundland Climbing Film will debut at Director of Breach: A Current February 19, 2010 the INCO Centre, MUN, on February 20. Doors open at 7:00pm with the film to start at 7:30pm, tickets are Newfoundland Climbing Film. There’s something in Breach for everyone, even those who don’t climb, like this writer, who want to discover available at Wallnuts Climbing Centre, Booster Juice With little external narration, the story is left for the the scene for climbing that’s in the province. In fact it’s (272 Torbay Road and MUN University Center only) as climbers to tell. The film isn’t all about Harris; it’s a focus this audience that Harris hopes Breach will reach out to well as at The Outfitters for $5.00 in advance, $7.00 at of the lifestyle. “Climbing is an integral part in the lives most, in hopes they’ll see that it’s not the way Hollywood the door. of each climber - interestingly, they all climb for different paints it out to be with movies like Vertical Limit and reasons” explains Harris. “One, for example, climbs Cliffhanger. “Most people picture rock climbing as this The trailer is available on the film’s website at because of how quiet and focused it demands him to be extreme dangerous sport that thrill junkies are attracted www.breachclimbingmovie.com. in. He intentionally puts himself in scary situations.” to,” says Harris.
Funding for Artistic Projects for artists, groups, and non-profit arts organizations
The Newfoundland and Labrador Arts Council (NLAC) is now accepting applications for its
Professional Project Grants Program
Application deadline: March 16, 2010 (Projects must start on/after May 15, 2010) Contact the NLAC for an application form and details Phone: 726-2212 or long distance toll free: 1-866-726-2212 (NL only) The Newman Building, 1 Springdale Street, St. John’s www.nlac.nf.ca [email protected]
Current
6 x 3
CURRENT | Page 6 February 19th - March 5th, 2010
Sounds Postdata - postdata (2010) Wintersleep Alumni Delivers a Debut from Beyond the Grave By Jonny Hodder
Having heard the story ether, blurring the lines between dreams and reality, behind Postdata’s self- between life and the unknown hereafter. titled debut, it comes off as something more The minimalist approach to Postdata is about as far- akin to a sweat-lodge removed as possible from the densely layered sound vision than song-writer of most Wintersleep albums. inspiration. Following the passing of Paul That being said, there is a familiarity in the way Murphy’s (Wintersleep) Murphy and his brother create haunting moods on grandparents a few songs such as Lazarus and Tobias Grey that hearken years back, they “left back to his previous work on Faithful Guide, Listen [him] thirty or forty pieces [Listen, Listen], and People Talk (all of which are from Murphy exploits these emotions best on Paranoid of songs in a series of Wintersleep, 2005). Clusters, a slow-building, stand out track despite Paul Murphy of Postdata dreams, not Coleridge- clocking in at just over two minutes, and album closer esque opium dreams though unfortunately, just Postdata is bound to get numerous comparisons The Coroner in which the narrator asks a lost loved- regular dreams, kinda sad dreams,” according to a to Iron & Wine, due in no small part to its decidedly one to “lie down with me” one more time. Postdata press release. lo-fi production and fluent finger-picking, but these comparisons do not tell the whole story. If tragedy is said to spawn creativity, Paul and Michael Paul got together with his brother, Michael, a laptop, Murphy’s grandparents would no doubt be proud of a bottle of scotch (or two) and a guitar (or two), and There is an edge to Murphy’s lyrical delivery that this creation – though it’s hard to say how they will began piecing together these dreams for what would is missing from many Iron & Wine songs, no doubt divvy up the song royalties. Does heaven take a eventually become Postdata, a nine-track ode to his because of the highly personal and emotional nature stance on intellectual property rights? Nevermind. grandparents that swims through the subconscious of the album. Art NL Artists at the Cultural Olympiad Isabella St. John and Karen Colbourne Martin off to Vancouver By Charissa Reeves
While athletes from The first tower she made came from a feeling of around the world are malaise after 9-11 and St. John wanted to focus on competing in Vancouver, the idea of people coming together and being at two Newfoundland artists peace, she explained. It was high with no windows are representing the or doors and she would imagine herself inside them, province from a cultural “being at a great height and seeking protection.” perspective at the 2010 Her towers evolved and changed as time went on and “Unity and Diversity” by Karen Colbourne Martin Winter Olympic Games. so did the way she thought of herself and the tower. Karen Colbourne Martin “For this, instead of the tower being something I was and Isabella St. John inside, the tower became my skin.” She describes the Colbourne Martin, who just completed her 117th each have a piece sculptures form as simple and graceful and relating to landscape, says she is trying to get more light and on display at The Art the human form, and wanted the viewer’s experience shadow into her work. “I want a painterly look.” One of Culture exhibit in to be a restful one. technique she’s discovered is to reversing the fabric Vancouver along with 73 to create shadow. other artists from across On Sure Ground is a tower with an open base the country. consisting of four hollow pieces stacked on each During the games in Vancouver each province On Sure Ground other. Each segment was made in series, first twisted will have a pavilion and two of Colbourne Martin’s by Isabella St. John on the potter’s wheel and then altered. Each has an quilts will be used in the Atlantic House Pavilion to Both artists are from St. John’s and exhibited their inner flange so they fit together. represent Newfoundland and Labrador. Canada AM pieces at the bi-annual Cheongju International Colbourne Martin is a textile artist and creates will be showcasing each province and territories Craft Biennial in South Korea this past September. landscapes of Newfoundland. Working mainly from pavilion and February 26 this province will have its Canada was the guest country in the Biennial with an slides, both her own and a large collection which turn. From the 211 Canadian exhibitors in South exhibition called Unity and Diversity. St. John, who is belonged to her father, Frederick A. Colbourne. Her Korea only 75 were chosen to participate in The Art a potter and owner of Blue Moon Pottery, attended piece entitled Where Once He Stood is a landscape of Craft exhibit, as a part of the Cultural Olympiad in the bi-annual event in Korea and said it was a gigantic taken from one of her fathers’ slides of Salvage. The Vancouver. experience. Her piece, a sculpture entitled On Sure “he” is her father, she explained, “as I was doing it I Ground was made with Korea in mind, “I considered thought, ‘Dad stood here and now I’m doing it.’” The exhibit opened in Vancouver on January 13th and it for months, what, what, what would I do,” St. John will run until April 11th. After this the exhibit will travel said. She started as a quilter, creating her first landscape to venues across Canada and the United States, in 1996, a tiny two and a half inch piece she entered with a schedule of the dates and venues yet to be She had been working on series of towers over a long in a Craft Council members show. Since then her released Unfortunately it is uncertain yet if the exhibit period of time, and had a solo exhibit at Devon House pieces have gotten bigger and now she finds herself will make a stop in St. John’s due to the large size of featuring towers a couple of years ago. “The basis for constantly busy with commissions. “I love what I do the exhibit and difficulty finding a venue to house it. all of those pieces is the theme of peace,” a theme and will continue to do it for a long time; as long as which worked well for Korea. my eyes or my hands don’t give out.” CURRENT | Page 7 February 19th - March 5th, 2010
Cover Bishop Brigante Canadian hip hop artist and actor performing at the rock house By Debby Winters
He hails from In an interview with Hip Hop Canada, Brigante Scarborough, Ontario explains what he has learned from the loss; “...when but he has travelled it was all over I realized a valuable lesson that I never nationally and learned before. Throughout my professional time as internationally; on March an artist I’ve had many people around me but I was 6 Bishop Brigante will never on the losing end of a battle before. So when I headline at The Rock lost, I realized who was around me for the ‘sunshine’ House on George Street and who turned their backs when the ‘rain’ came. And here in St. John’s. boy did a lot of people show their true colors after the loss. So it was actually a blessing to be able to tighten Brigante a.k.a The Gambling Man got his start on the up my circle.” streets of Scarborough where he grew up. He started out emceeing and doing the battling scene against Brigante is also a talented actor, appearing in the other local Emcees. Ray Liotta blockbuster NARC in 2002, the TV series Platinum and a theatrical production of A Clockwork He gained a name for himself and his popularity Orange. He plans to continue to pursue his acting has been steadily on the rise through his material career but his looking for less stereotypical roles as on YouTube and active touring. With an undefeated the one he played in Clockwork. record on the Power Move radio show and countless titles earned from events around Canada, Bishop The recording studio has also been a busy place for proved his prowess and became the first Canadian the rapper lately as he has put together two mixtapes; to appear on BET’s Freestyle Friday where he was I Battled Bishop And All I Got Was This F#*kin’ disqualified from competition because he used the Mixtape and I Slept With Bishop And All I Got Was word ‘shit.’ This F#*kin Mixtape.
Brigante speaks of the experience; “I literally muscled Of the first mixtape Brigante said; I was just figuring, my way into that situation,” says Brigante through his since I’ve had so many so-called battles and beefs, Bishop Brigante signature smirk. “Whatever I had to do to get on that why not give back to the people who continually use from the supporters tells me this will be a few nights show, was gonna get done. By my natural grind and my name as a boost. I’m thinking, if you get the best to prepare for! So stay tuned cause we about to get a little bit of luck, that dream came true and I’ve been response from people by dissing me or making them it in!” hearing about it ever since.” think you beat me in a battle, I must be a top dog in your eyes. You must feel like I’m a threat to your Also performing at the show will one of He has done battle with such talents as Scandalis, career so you want to take me out to get up on that Newfoundland’s most popoular DJ’s - DJ Sina as Speakeasy, Jack Shitt and Jin the Em Ce, going ladder. I appreciate that. Here’s your reward.” well as Johnny Hardcore, Lee Fitz, Antics and DJ AVP. The event is being produced by J. Winsor The record is a freestyle type mixtape featuring Management, Glamour Media Productions as well as names such as Ken Masters, Swave Sevah, Poison SubKulture. Pen and a few others. The second record is the same type of mixtape but with more R&B type freestyles Cover is $10.00 and you can purchase advance aimed the ladies and is a Special Edition CD. tickets at Mary Janes on Water Street and at The Rock House on George. The mixtapes are Brigante’s prequel to The Value of a Hustle which he had the tracks laid down for and will More information about Bishop Brigante can be found be recording shortly. The Value will be Brigante’s first on his website, www.thebrigantebrand.com. full length release.
Of the upcoming album he explained; “The Value of a Hustle is my life story. It’s pretty much all the emotions check us out online and all the journeys I have experienced in my life. There has been a lot of parties and there has been a lot of funerals. There has been a lot of happiness and a lot of sadness. I touch on all kinds of things that a lot of people go through in life period. There are a lot of stories on the record. I’m sort of a conceptual kind of writer.”
Of his upcoming show at The Rock House Brigante stated; “This will definitely be one of those shows to remember. It’s not my first time on stage on the East Coast but it will be my first time on stage out there doin’ my own show.”
Bishop Brigante and Snoop Dogg “I’m usually with Choclair or someone else on the road doing back ups or special guest appearances. undefeated until his recent, November 4 battle with So this will be an exciting adventure for me to add to Jin, which was his first loss in the Rap Battle arena. the archives! Plus the countless amounts of emails www.currentmag.ca
CURRENT | Page 8 February 19th - March 5th, 2010
My Style Miriam Upshall Makin’ Wellies Stylish By Stephanie Abbott
The Outfit to buy clothing which has versatility. “I wouldn’t buy Miriam has a knack for throwing together simple something outrageous just to wear it once.” outfits that are as fun as they are practical. Her bright red Hunter Wellies are the perfect footwear for messy Miriam is a budget shopper who loves to hunt at St. John’s weather. Winner’s and Model Citizens for good bargains. “I found a pair of Citizen’s of Humanity Jeans there for “These boots are great because I can wear them all like forty five dollars.” She is an avid online shopper year round.” Miriam’s boots were ordered online but as well and checks out French Connection, Aldo and are available at Twisted Sister’s Boutique as well. She Forever 21 on a regular basis. picked a pair in bright red because she thought they’d “stand out more.” Hidden Treasure “My most treasured item would have to be my pearls.” Tucked into her boots are a pair of Guess brand pants The pearls were a gift for Miriam and each of her that are a combination of jeans and leggings. “I wear three sisters a few Christmas’ ago. leggings probably five times a week. They’re so comfy and you can wear them in so many different ways.” “Part of what I like about them is they’re so classic. You can throw them on with something really simple She brightens up her neutral coloured tank and and you feel more dressed up.” cardigan with a patterned scarf that a friend found for her at a market in Italy. Miriam admits that she tends Style Advice to be “quite plain” when it comes to jewellery. Small Miriam suggest paying attention to small details when simple earrings and two silver rings are usually all she getting dressed. wears for everyday. “A little detail like a scarf can make a big difference. The Style My outfit would be totally plain without it.” Miriam’s style is simple and classic and comfort is extremely important to her. “That’s part of what I like Fun accents like a fun belt, hat or scarf can only take about leggings, they’re so comfortable”. She tends a minute but can really make a plain outfit interesting. Miriam Upshall stylin’ in Wellies
CURRENT | Page 9 February 19th - March 5th, 2010
CD Release Matthew HornelL and the Diamond Minds by Gary Moore
The crowds have been getting bigger and the sing-alongs the songwriting. “The album carries a sense of losing and louder - now Matthew Hornell and The Diamond Minds longing. Travel, distance, forfeit and recovery seem to be are set to release their first full length, self titled, album. present in most of the lyrics. These are not necessarily bad things, usually they’re just unavoidable. Some songs Rarely does a musician get buzz and hype surrounding are true, some are of characters and some are dreams.” them as big and fast as it happened for Matthew Hornell Like all great songwriters Hornell’s captured the ability to and The Diamond Minds. Hard work is the only thing tell stories. Hornell can attribute it to, though the connection that he has with his audience is strong, “I believe people feel a The album features a variety of guest performers; Tom connection at our shows, which is what we always strive Power, Sherry Ryan, Chris Kirby, Ben Rigby, Katie Baggs, Cover artwork designed by Mark Bennett to achieve.” Without pointing credit in one direction, Leslie Hewlett, Tiffany Hancock and Richard St. Onge. there’s another ingredient, “Paddy (bassist) – he’s just Leo Bruce recorded the album and Hornell describes him stage to celebrate. So Chris Kirby, Sherry Ryan, Richard unreal and quite the looker,” Hornell admits. as a gem of a human being. Mark Bennett did the artwork St. Onge, Leslie Hewlett and Tiffany Hancock will also be and design layout. there. All followed by The Subtitles to close out the night The band’s been working hard to get their debut album recorded and ready to release. “Lots of love went into the With all great projects comes one great party. The CD Hornell admits to being “abnormally excited” for the CD album and now its set free,” Hornell shares. release will take place February 19, at The Ship, $10 Release. “We have been working real hard trying to get cover/$20 with a CD. Since the album had many guests, this album ready. We are really happy about the end The album has great depth. It’s more than songs to dance Matthew Hornell and The Diamond Minds figured it would result. Aside from us in the group there were so many and sing too – that’s just the bonus. The beauty lies in only make sense to have a lot of them join the band on that really helped out and gave their artistic input and we are forever grateful.”
After the CD Release it’s on to the ECMA’s in Nova Scotia, later this month where Matthew Hornell and The Diamond Minds will perform in several showcases. And it serves as a great reason to have a mini tour along the way. Performing across Newfoundland - Grand Falls- Windsor, Corner Brook and Stephenville, February 25, 26, 27 –respectively, and then performing Antigonish and Halifax just before the ECMA’s.
Members of Matthew Hornell and The Diamond Minds (Submitted Photo)
CURRENT | Page 10 February 19th - March 5th, 2010
FILM From Paris With Love Starring Jonathan Rhys Meyers and John Travolta By Tim CONWAY
Runtime 92 minutes It isn’t long before Mr. Reese gets his wish, although his ««½ instructions do not seem to promise much beyond his current level of covert activity. He is to pick up an agent The stars of From Paris With Love From where most sit, at the airport, drive him around the city and do whatever James Reese has it he’s told. Upon his arrival, however, he discovers that more in common with Charlie Wax than James Reese. made. An aide to the this assignment is likely to prove more challenging than American Ambassador expected, and not in a good way. In playing Charlie Wax, John Travolta tries to buff out some in Paris, he lives in a of the cliches of the character, demonstrating that he does cozy apartment with his His new partner, Charlie Wax, turns out to be an obnoxious have potential, and that under the right director, he could girlfriend, commutes to bully, the kind of guy who gives Americans a bad name. have owned the role. As it is, he’s more off than on, but not and from the embassy in Charlie’s take-no-prisoners, no-holds-barred, gets-the by much, and in a part that probably would have gone to luxury automobiles and job-done, aggressive style probably wins praise from his Vin Diesel three years ago, there’s constantly reminders the particulars of his work superiors across the Atlantic, but it’s a nightmare for the that things could have been worse. Jonathan Rhys Meyers John Travolta appear to be nearly devoid young diplomat who’d prefer a more discreet approach to makes Reese a solid character, and with the right script, of stress. A cushy job in Paris, what more could you want? solving problems. the possibility of a sequel would be worth considering. The locations and action sequences are the primary appeal For the answer, you need go no further than the man Although developed from a story by Luc Besson, and here, although a few of the latter could have been a bit himself, for Mr. Reese also functions as a low-level directed by Pierre Morel (Taken), From Paris with Love better choreographed, and more fluidly worked into the intelligence operative, presumably the CIA. seems to lack a certain finesse that one usually finds overall story. when Mr. Besson takes on a more active role. It’s not A typical assignment begins with a phone call, directing that he’s the kind of action film guru that John Woo used Despite its numerous shortcomings, From Paris with Love him to the location of a motor vehicle. When he finds it, to be, but he often ensures a level of cohesion and style is an average action film that offers the bonus of a setting James accesses a secret compartment in his car, retrieves that transcends silly storylines. His creative distance from that is different from the usual New York / LA routine. There a license plate and switches it with the one on the vehicle this picture manifests itself in an erratic, overly simplistic are enough twists and turns, car chases and explosions to in question. Just like his primary line of work, there’s little presentation that suggests the approach of Europeans keep us occupied, making for an hour and a half of simple risk involved. Herein lies the problem, as he’s itching to attempting to make a film that would appeal to Americans. entertainment that is sure to touch the inner Charlie Wax in move up. Unfortunately, they seem to believe that Americans have each of us. MonaRita Preview St. John’s Premiere featres Ruth Lawrence & Sara Tilley By JOshua Jamieson
A trilogy including White Rooster Theatre, She Said introduced to motherhood and Rita continues to live a Yes! and RCA Theatre Company are working together flash life filled with shoes and fabulous haircuts. to bring a premiere production to St. John’s from The play deals with female friendship with eerie February 25 - 28 at the Basement Theatre in the Arts accuracy and is filled with quirky humor while an and Culture Centre. audience watches what happens when these two best friends for life come to the edge of their relationship. MONARITA is the first stage-play from Toronto-based poet Shannon Bramer and will feature the talents of Produced with the support of the Newfoundland and Ruth Lawrence and Sara Tilley as well as Mark White Labrador Arts Council and sponsored by Sound Salon under the direction of Sherry White, who returns to & Spa, the running of MONARITA will start with a theatre after her acclaimed role in the film, Crackie. preview on February 24 for just $10. After that tickets are $20 regular or $15 for students and seniors, with The show centres around Mona and Rita who are so a pay what you can matinee scheduled for February close to one another they’re like sisters. However, 28 at 2pm. Tickets are available at the Arts and their intertwined lives hit a crossroad when Mona is Culture Centre box office, call 729-3900. Ruth Lawrence and Sara Tilley Comics
www.thelittleworld.net/blog
CURRENT | Page 11 February 19th - March 5th, 2010
Event Tommy Sexton Benefit Local Comedian and Actor Remembered for a Cause By Debby Winters
Celebrate life with an Newfoundland filmmaker and Sexton’s sister Mary evening of entertainment explains the impact, “Tommy put a face to HIV/AIDS, not and support a good only in Newfoundland and Labrador, but all of Canada. cause at the 16th annual At the time, he was on one of the most watched, critically Tommy Sexton Benefit acclaimed shows on CBC, CODCO, which was at the on February 19 at The height of its popularity. Tommy Sexton was a household Bella Vista starting at name. I think almost everyone knows someone who has 8pm. The benefit, hosted HIV/AIDS or has died from HIV/AIDS. In 1993, Tommy by Greg Malone will was the person for everyone in the province.” include a live auction and show complete On September 15, 2006 the Tommy Sexton Centre was with musical guests; opened in St. John’s. The centre provides emergency Tommy Sexton The 8-Track Favourites, shelter, transitional and supportive housing, and services Sexton in character as Krystle featuring Sandy Morris who was of course in the WGB, to people living with HIV/AIDS in the province. winter in the province, making it more important to spread Stixx & Stones, Liz Solo and Colleen Power. Over the past 16 years the benefit has raised tens of a little love and hope and of course, have a good time. thousands for research and awareness. Money raised Tommy always wanted people to have a good time!” There will also be a video tribute – a special highlight reel from this year’s event will go directly toward helping featuring some of Tommy’s most beloved characters in people affected by HIV/AIDS living in this province. A When asked about what she felt Sexton’s reaction to the memorable sketches. portion is also used to create the Tommy Sexton Triple benefit would be, Mary replied; “I think Tommy would be Threat Scholarship, which is awarded to a 4th year extremely pleased that after 17 years he could still bring Tommy Sexton was a nationally and internationally known Theatre Arts Student attending Sir Wilfred Grenfell the house down. He received standing ovations at the writer, comedian and actor. Among many of his works and College in Corner Brook. WGB reunion tour and we as a family work to preserve performances are CODCO and The Wonderful Grand his name and all the wonderful things he did accomplish Band (WGB) to name a few. He created many well-loved The benefit has made changes over the years; Mary in his very short lifetime. Tommy loved to have a scuff!” characters such as Tammy (paired up with Malone’s explains: “Originally, it was held in December since Rex), Dickie Budgell, Spook and others. Sexton died Tommy loved Christmas and we tried to do it around The fundraiser is sponsored by WestJet, Quidi Vidi on December 13, 1993 because of complications due the anniversary of his death. As you can imagine, there Brewery, VOCM, HitsFM and Wade Atlantic. Tickets are to AIDS. At the time, HIV/AIDS was just starting to gain are many other fundraisers happening then and as the available at The Tommy Sexton Centre, The Bella Vista, notoriety and Sexton was probably one of the first well- years went by it became more difficult to compete with Fred’s Records and The Travel Bug. known Newfoundlander’s to be affected. other equally deserving causes. Eventually, we decided to move it to February – one of the bleakest months of
DATING Type Smart Tips to Approach Dating through Social Media by TARA LEHMAN Sites such as Facebook Facebook walls, but be smart. Some things are meant to be and Twitter were designed private, especially if you’re trying to impress someone. www.thepaperie.ca to offer ways of stay in Then there’s online stalking. Who are you adding as touch with people you friends on Facebook? As many as possible so it looks like Scrapbooking | Stamping |Invitations already know, however a badge of honor? Who’s following you on Twitter – do tables have turned you know them all? These people have access to your and it has become an private information, and if they’re romantically interested in acceptable way to meet you, it’s an ideal way for them to get to know you – which Join us at The Paperie people as well. Since could be good or bad depending on how you feel about in March for a fun they aren’t designed them. Facebook is especially guilty for this since it allows specifically for dating, it for the posting of far more information than online dating Scrapbook Mini takes creativity to use websites. Don’t kid yourself. People will go through pictures, Album Workshop them that way; especially given the virtual landscape can read your wall, etc… to learn about you and although it’s be very public in a way that is different than online dating. usually harmless, it can trip into online stalking and just be with acclaimed While surfing and clicking away, think about how you are downright creepy. Canadian Designer presenting yourself. Social networking pros and cons when it comes to dating is VICKI BOUTIN Remember the saying ‘Don’t drink and dial’? Here’s an a new subject with lots to discuss and write about, so all this equally important suggestion: Think before you type. Love Diva can say is take advantage of the multiple ways Facebook and Twitter allow status updates for all to see there are to meet people, but control yourself. Don’t come For details visit however that doesn’t mean your romantic life should across as someone whose social life revolves around these 36 Pippy Place continually be showcased. How would the person you’re websites, don’t become an online stalker - trust your instincts dating feel about that? He or she may not appreciate and type smart! in St. John’s everyone knowing where you went on a date or how sexy you think they are. What if you’re playing the scene by dating Tara runs D8 Night, a company specializing in Speed Dating, or call us more than one person? You risk a blown cover since you’re Online Dating courses & more. Dial 740-3733, email tara@ 726-5323 allowing countless people to see what you’re up to, directly eventivenewfoundland.ca, or Facebook Group: D8 Night. or indirectly. It’s tempting to continually ‘Tweet’ or write on
CURRENT | Page 12 February 19th - March 5th, 2010
Listings what’s on! Check our local events calendar
FRIDAY, Feb 19 O’Reilly’s: Larry Foley and Patrick SATURDAY, Feb 27 Clay Cafe (39 Commonwealth Ave, Indoors. Contact Brendan Toland at: Moran Mount Pearl 745-2345): open til 9PM [email protected] Bridie Molloy’s: Jackie ‘n Siochana Greensleeves: Chris Ryan & Chad Turkey Joe’s: Manic Mondays: Happy Murphy Devon House Clay Studio - open studio Free Internet: Love of Learning offers Distortion: Options Hour All Night times, contact for info free internet and computer use for Loft 709: Dance League Saturday w/ Erin’s Pub: Traditional Sessions w/ Paddy Greene For The Love of Learning Call for resilient youth between 15 and 35 Graham Wells Submissions for its 4th anthology years old, noon to 6pm, weekdays Spin: Seamless Saturday w/Mike the in the basement of the Gower Street TUESDAY, Feb 23 Tailor of fiction and art. Emerging artists Greensleeves: Carl Peters & Dave between 15-35 can submit poetry, United Church. For more info, visit White Auntie Crae’s: (Noon, free) Auntie Stanley’s: (10PM) Karaoke stories and visual art. Call 722-8848 www.fortheloveoflearning.org or call Konfusion: DJ Sina Crae’s Band The Fat Cat: Chris Kirby and the or visit www.fortheloveoflearning.org Darcy at 722-8848. Loft 709: DJ Mayehem Bella Vista: (8:30PM, $5) Sizzlin Salsa Marquee Fakelore Call for Submissions For The Love of Learning (weekdays, Tuesdays describing inauthentic, O’Reilly’s: The Bishops Tol’s: Route One 12pm-6pm, Free to youth 15-35): Greensleeves: Damian Follett & Gary manufactured folklore presenting 99 Gower Street. Classes in world Shamrock City: Son’s of Erin Turkey Joe’s: Sexual Saturdays w/ itself as genuine, Riddle Fence is religion, philosophy, folklore, art, Gambin DJ Lex looking for creations, judged by theatre, resume-building. Free lunch Spin: Funktastic Friday w/Leo van Grumpy Stump: Karaoke editors, successful pieces will go Ulden & Kid Cue Yuk Yuk’s: Aaron Berg (XXX warning) at 1PM (722-4846) Loft 709: Hip Hop Tuesday w/Paddy in the next issue. Email fakelore@ Stanley’s: Karaoke Greene & Shawn Goldz riddlefence.com Deadline: March 15 Mall Walkers’ Club: (Avalon Mall, Thursdays, 8:45am) (737-2333) The Fat Cat: Ben Rigby The Fat Cat: Shawn Beresford Words Words Words: The Annual SUNDAY, Feb 28 SBTS Sonnet Contest Deadline: The Martini Bar: Kelly Ann Evans (acoustic) The Pottle Centre: (323 Hamilton Greensleeves: Damian Follett March 15, open to grade 3 to 12 Avenue, social and recreational The Ship: Matthew Hornell and the Turkey Joe’s: Two for Tuesdays w/Carl students. Email [email protected] for Grumpy Stump: Karaoke programs for users of mental health Diamond Minds Peters & Dave White info. Winners announced April 23. services) 753-2143 Kelly’s Pub: Fred Jorgenson Turkey Joe’s: Filthy Fridays w/ DJ Lex The Rooms: (Wednesdays 6pm-9pm Whalen’s Pub: Steve Green O’Reilly’s: Traditional Open Session w/ / First Saturday/month, Nov-May WEDNESDAY, Feb 24 Alan Byrne GALLERY LISTINGS Free admission, 9 Bonaventure Ave. Yuk Yuk’s: David Pryde & Martha 757-8000) Chaves Grumpy Stump: Karaoke Turkey Joe’s: Retro Sunday (Ladies The Craft Council Gallery (Devon Night) with DJ Lex Greensleeves: Kronik House, Duckworth Street; www. Seniors Bridging Culture: (Seniors craftcouncil.nl.ca) Resource Centre, Thursdays, Junctions: Wild Wednesdays w/Dr 2pm) Tea, guest speakers, and SATURDAY, Feb 20 Drake, DJ Fox Leyton Gallery Summer Exhibit (www. MONDAY, Mar 1 theleytongallery.com) conversation (737-2333) Distortion: Weak Link, Dig Up the Loft 709: Retro Wednesday with DJ Seniors Friendship Club: (Seniors Sina Grumpy Stump: Open Mic The Rooms (www.therooms.ca) Dead, Polina, Frontier, Corridor 18 The Inner Rooms: The Peoples’ Resource Centre, Fridays, 2pm Dusk: Wrecking Ball O’Reilly’s: Keith’s Collectable Cash Holy Heart Theatre: Rajaton Collection; Ice Flows & Sound 737-2333) Night w/Chris Hennessey and Best O’Reilly’s: Larry Foley & Patrick Moran Retreats: Jan Kabatoff; Dark Horse: Shambhala Meditation Group: (Billy Greensleeves: 101 Kind Greg Bennett Loft 709: DJ Nu Rock Turkey Joe’s: Manic Mondays - Happy Rahal Fieldhouse, rear Elizabeth The Fat Cat: Chris Kriby (acoustic) Hour All Night Irish Connections (Peter Lewis Gallery, Towers) Free meditation practice. Lottie’s Place: Jeff Lewis The Rock House: (8:30PM, $5) Salsa ongoing) 15 new oil paintings done Call 576-4727 or visit http://stjohns. in Northern Ireland 722-6009 Liquid: Mikey B, Steve Murray, Electro On the Rock weekly salsa dancing shambhala.org A1C Gallery (Ben Rigby) For more info: O’Reilly’s: The Bishops The Ship: Folk Night w/Lisa Gillam TUESDAY, Mar 2 Traditional Latin Mass: (Our Lady of Mercy Convent, Sundays, 9am) Stanley’s: Karaoke www.a1cgallery.ca Shamrock City: Son’s of Erin Auntie Crae’s: (Noon, free) Auntie Use side door facing the Basilica, Crae’s Band Spin: Seamless Saturday w/Mike the Turkey Joe’s: Wacky Wednesday’s w/ Latin/English resources supplied. Tailor Dave White Bella Vista: (8:30PM, $5) Sizzlin Salsa For information call 726-6727 or Tuesdays SPECIAL EVENTS LISTINGS Stanley’s: Karaoke Yuk Yuk’s: New Talent Night 722-4842, or email unavoce.sopc@ Grumpy Stump: Karaoke Look & Feel Your Best Makeup gmail.com The Martini Bar: Kelly Ann Evans, Techniques (A.C. Hunter Library, St. John’s City Council Meeting: (City Mountains and the Trees Turkey Joe’s: Two for Tuesdays - “2 for Feb. 24, 7pm) Hosted by Mary Kay THURSDAY, Feb 25 1” w/Carl Peters & Dave White Council Chambers, 4th Floor, The Rock House: The Pathological beauty consultants. Call 737-3950. Mondays, 4:30pm) Public welcome, Lovers Greensleeves: Unlisted Put ‘er Up! (CLB, Feb. 26, 8pm) A see agenda www.stjohns.ca, posted Tol’s: Bic and the Ballpoints Liquid: Open Decks WEDNESDAY, Mar 3 night of Newfoundland Music and Friday afternoons Turkey Joe’s: Sexual Saturdays w/DJ Fun fundraiser for Fatima Academy Overeaters Anonymous: If your eating Kelly’s Pub: Fred Jorgenson & Arthur Concert Choir, call 722-1737 Jaycee O’Brien Grumpy Stump: Karaoke habits are making you unhappy and Water Street Book Club (Gallery putting you at risk for serious health Whelan’s Pub: Paul Ryan O’Reilly’s: Acoustic Punters Junctions: Wild Wednesdays w/Dr Drake, DJ Fox Space, Heritage Shop of problems, you can do something Yuk Yuk’s: David Pryde & Martha The Dock: Stixx and Stones Newfoundland at 309 Water St., about it. Call 738-1742 or www.oa.org Chaves The Rock House: (8:30PM, $5) Salsa The Fat Cat: Craig Young (acoustic) On the Rock weekly salsa dancing March 4, 7pm) with special guest Tango On The Edge - Argentine Tango: Lisa Moore to celebrate the release The Martini Bar: DJ Mark Power (Thursdays 8:30-10:30, RCA Club, The Ship: Folk Night w/Dave Panting of February in paperback. Email 10 Bennett Ave) All welcome. SUNDAY, Feb 21 Tol’s: Route One Stanley’s: Karaoke [email protected] or call 739- 7994 for info. It’s never too late to Quit Smoking Greensleeves: Damian Follett Turkey Joe’s: Tropical Thrus w/DJ Turkey Joe’s: (10PM) Wacky Are you planning to reduce or Chamba Wednesdays w/ Dave White Comic Jam (Hava Java, last Monday of quit smoking? You only have to Grumpy Stump: Karaoke every month, 7PM, free) Yuk Yuk’s: Aaron Berg (XXX warning) Yuk Yuk’s: New Talent Night be thinking about it. Ask about a Kelly’s Pub: Fred Jorgenson St. John’s Farmers’ Market (Saturdays, personal or group presentation. O’Reilly’s: Traditional Open Session w/ 10AM-2PM), Lion’s Club Chalet, All participants receive a Coping Alan Byrne Mayor Avenue Kit. Phone Paula at the Seniors FRIDAY, Feb 26 THURSDAY, Mar 4 Resource Centre NL at 737-2333 or The Fat Cat: Open Mic w/Andrew Hurling Training on-going weekly. 1-800-563-5599 Piercey Greensleeves: Greg Bolger & Chris Liquid: Open Decks Marshall The Martini Bar: DJ Wiwa The Fat Cat: Craig Young (acoustic) Loft 709: DJ Mayehem Turkey Joe’s: Retro Sunday (Ladies The Martini Bar: Mark Power Get Plastered! Stanley’s: Karaoke Night) w/DJ Lex Turkey Joe’s: Tropical Thursdays w/ DJ The Fat Cat: Darrell Cooper Band Chamba Specializing in casting The Rock House: The Waiting pregnant tummies & Baby Bummies MONDAY, Feb 22 Tol’s: Route One Greensleeves: Damian Follett Turkey Joe’s: Filthy Fridays with DJ Lex What To Do? (For Artists) AlexandraÊBaird,ÊBFA Grumpy Stump: Open Mic Yuk Yuk’s: Aaron Berg (XXX warning) (709)743-0059 Loft 709: Martini Monday’s w/DJ Anna Templeton Centre (Duckworth) Diamond contact for info re: adult and youth [email protected] classes, workshops
CURRENT | Page 13 February 19th - March 5th, 2010
My Messy The ex-files The Little life lessons and reminders brought to you by your ex Bedroom by Josey Vogles All the letters my high-school sweetheart wrote during it exploded, and John reminded me of what a complete But exes aren’t just test runs. They’re a connection to your an eight-month separation at the height of our five-year fool one can be after falling for someone less interested in past, reminders of where you’ve been, how far you’ve relationship are still in my possession. Eloquent 10-page returning the favour. come. A sweatshirt John gave me is still in my closet. Every musings on the daily grind of KP duty in the local pen. That, time the damn thing gets worn there is a reminder of how and the occasional rock-album art pencil sketch. He wanted Paul got me to like myself again and, well, it hasn’t quite the immature twerp broke my heart - same principle as to be an artist, or a rock star. Dealing hash oil was just his been “ex”-tracted what will be taken along with me to the rubbing Fido’s nose in his own poop. ticket. Too bad one of his regulars was a narc. next round from the current entanglement. Beyond his sense of humour, there is his brand of loyalty. That’ll be Sometimes you hang onto something that reminds you We hung on for a few years after he got out, even following added to the requirement list and, oh yeah, his appreciation of your ex as you wait for the day you can face it without him to Toronto before finally realizing he needed to be let of family. That was a new one for me. As for his inability going into relapse - proof you’re over him. My friend has a go after someone clued me in to the fact that the glazed, to communicate and his need to always be in the driver’s roll of film she can’t yet bring herself to develop because half-closed eyes he brought to yet another of my attempts seat, no thanks. there are pictures of “him” on it. But every so often she to drag things out were thanks to his new passion: heroin. says, “I think I could develop those pictures now.” She still Next. hasn’t, but she’s getting there. Not to be forgotten, this relationship’s been mentioned before as the one that saved my sexual life. We still talk The guy you first orgasmed with, or the one you had really At the very least, most past relationships are good for one once a year or so. He’s since kicked junk, and the last time raunchy sex with; the guy who made you feel good about or two Kodak moments worth dragging out once in a while we spoke he was trying to give booze the boot. your body, or the guy who ripped your heart out - every for a nice, self-indulgent stroll down memory lane. relationship leaves its mark, something to take into the After him there was Tim (all names are changed so the next one en route to what we have been led to believe Sometimes you end up with some cool stuff - a nice flannel guys can have fun trying to guess if it’s about them), the will eventually be the one. Some lessons are easier (next shirt or a tacky lamp or two - leftover by an ex. Or not. film guy from Van who hooked me on sushi, and Doug, time a guy tells me on his first date that he’s still working who hooked me on some less healthy habits and put all my things out with an old girlfriend, its done), others take Every time my friend comes home to find something else closest friendships to the test. Then came the only ‘lived time, and there are usually a few repeat offences (the her dog has chewed up because she didn’t get home in with’ guy, Mick - who brought me back down to earth with aforementioned lack of communication, for example - no time to take him out, she is bluntly reminded of her ex, who a good bout of domestic bliss. Richard turned me on to matter how many times it’s learned, there’s a return to the gave her the dog as a gift. world music, Ethiopian food and the internet way before mute ones). $3 Bill An audience with... Michel Tremblay has enough friends, thank you By Richard Burnett A gay paradise for decades, nearly a third of Key West’s “If you ask anybody in the world who is translated, they year-round residents are queer, including Quebec gay and will have the same reply: It should be better in its own literary icon Michel Tremblay, who divides time between language,” Tremblay explains. “Chekhov was an even there and Montreal. But even here, in the Southernmost greater genius in Russian. I’m not taking myself for City, Tremblay hardly ever speaks English. “I live in a big Chekhov, but Moliere is less good in English than French.” house and last year I had 22 friends come visit,” Tremblay shares. “I live in French. I haven’t made friends in Key West That said, Tremblay is not just a Quebec icon, but is, to in over 19 years because I’m not the friendly man I am in quote former Montreal Gazette columnist and theatre critic interviews.” Gaetan Charlebois on Canadiantheatre.com, “arguably the most important playwright in the history of [Canada].” Clearly Tremblay doesn’t get out much, and this on an island famed for its notorious nightlife, where many of its So much so Stratford will produce Tremblay’s play For bars are as legendary as some of the locals – folks like, the Pleasure of Seeing Her Again in 2010, his fourth play well, Michel Tremblay. at the Shakespeare festival. “The last was Les Belles- soeurs 15 years ago and I had problems with Stratford,” Michel’s reticence when it comes to language is Tremblay recalls. “They just pay a [flat] fee and not 10% Michel Tremblay (Submitted Photo) understandable. In 2006, when he expressed doubts of everything. Les Belles-soeurs was a runaway hit and I about Quebec separation, the crap hit the proverbial fan. would’ve made more. But it’s Stratford. So I shut up.” “We were doing a revival of Hosanna at [Montreal’s] Place Separatists advised him to shut up or keep out of the des Arts in 1975 and this English CBC reporter surprised province. So here he is in Key West graciously answering Just like he helped launch Montreal playwright Steve me by asking asked me, ‘By the way, are you gay?’ So, questions in English on the eve of Michel & ti-Jean, a new Galluccio into the stratosphere by translating Mambo just to brag, I replied, ‘Yes, by the way, I am!’ It was on TV English play about the fictional 1969 meeting of a 27-year- Italiano into French, Tremblay, now 68, helped playwright that night. The next morning I got phone calls saying, ‘If old Tremblay and then-47-year-old famed Beat writer Jack George Rideout sell Michel & t-Jean to the Centaur. “I’m you said it in English, then you have to say in on French TV Kerouac. The play is currently playing at the Centaur, the really not that generous, but when you see an exceptional tonight!’ So I went on live TV. venerable Old Montreal theatre that has produced many talent, why not bow to it and help them? I’ve never been English translations of Tremblay’s works over the years. threatened by talent.” “You know, if I was a singer, I’d ask myself, ‘Should I come out?’ Seducing [audiences] is not part of my life, my job. Tremblay’s plays have also been translated into over 20 Tremblay especially likes Michel & t-Jean because “it did But it is for actors and singers. Less now, but in the 1970s languages, including Yiddish, Haitian Creole, Hindi and something that I would never do in real life – that’s take the I would never have come out. But I did. Strange thing was Japanese. He agrees his translated plays haven’t had as bus to Florida! But it’s a very good play about writing.” [after I came out] everybody on the streets, it didn’t matter much impact as in French – including English translations to them. They kept on waving and saying hello to me.” by Linda Gaboriau, mother of rock star Melissa Auf der Tremblay was a proud out gay man when I was still a kid Maur, and ex-wife of the late Montreal boulevardier Nick Auf reading my first Tremblay novel, The Fat Lady Next Door Is Just whatever you do, don’t call Tremblay a living legend. der Maur (“Nick died of the same throat cancer that I had,” Pregnant. So he also became something of a role model. “When I read that I laugh.” But it’s true, Mr Tremblay. Read Michel notes.) it and weep.
CURRENT | Page 14 February 19th - March 5th, 2010
Snfashioaps!n Christa Borden Performance Intimate and Interactive at Bianca’s Photographer: Sandra Elford
Can’t wait for Christa!
Caught up in Christa! Enjoyin the sounds!
Erin and Karla Christa sings from the heart
CURRENT | Page 15 (709) 738 - 5293
Five Points to Team Yellow!