Publicizing Entertainers & Entertaining Our Readers
Country Entertainment USA CONTENTS STAFF 4 Two Local Rising Stars Editor: of 2011 Cindy Gordon 5 World Famous Associate Editor: Tootsies Orchid Lounge Holly Marie Tong 6 Marshall Tucker Band Managing Editor, Sales, Marketing 40 Years of Music & Distribution Manager: Roy Skropits 7 CD Reviews
Writer: Doug Dyer 8 Interview with Country Artist CD Reviews: Matt Bailie
Brenda L. Madden 10 Pop Star Tiffany Releases Country Album GENERAL INFORMATION: [email protected] 12 TN Wraith Chasers
ADVERTISING & RATES: 14 The Whippoorwill [email protected] 15 Country Entertainment PRESS RELEASES: April Theater Roundup [email protected] Back Festivals & By Mail Music Venues
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Two Local Rising Stars of 2011 Ben Stillwater and Robert Burgeis
Ben Stillwater Sound Of Country Rhythm
Ben Stillwater a big man at 6' and 7" from Montana now resides in Tennes- see. Ben is a true talent of true country music with his trademark "Sound Of Country Rhythm". Fans and listeners have taken a shine to Ben's fresh and exciting music.
Ben has just signed with Alan's Music Group for promotion, marketing and bookings. If you haven't seen Ben Stillwater perform or hear his songs you will and if you like good country music then you'll love Ben Stillwater.
www.benstillwater.com • • • • • • • www.alansmusicgroup.com
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Robert Burgeis
Well known local Country artist Robert Burgeis and his label "Hit Monster Records" will soon release his first single "Burn It Down" The video and Radio tour are also in the works. There is no doubt Robert Burgeis is one of the 2011 rising stars...
Robertburgeis.com
Facebook.com/Robertburgeis
PG 4 www.countryentertainmentusa.com
World Famous Tootsies Orchid Lounge THIRTY-FOUR STEPS AND FIFTY YEARS!!
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum will honor a Nashville institution, Tootsies Orchid Lounge, with a new photographic exhibition, Tootsies Orchid Lounge: Thirty-Four Steps and Fifty Years. The exhibit, which opens April 1, will be presented in the Museum’s West Gallery and will run through September 30, 2011.
In 1960, Jeff and Hattie Louise “Tootsie” Bess bought a small restaurant on Broadway in Nashville and rechris- tened it Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge. With its proximity to the Ryman Auditorium, the club became a haven for many Grand Ole Opry stars, who would run over and grab a drink between sets. As Willie Nelson described the trek, “It’s 17 steps to Tootsie’s and 34 steps back.”
Through the years, Tootsies regulars included country stars such as Patsy Cline, Webb Pierce, Charley Pride and Faron Young, as well as up-and-coming songwriters Bill Anderson, Tom T. Hall, Harlan Howard, Kris Kristof- ferson, Roger Miller and Mel Tillis. When the Opry moved to the Opryland complex in 1974, Tootsie’s fell out of favor. And by the time Tootsie Bess died in 1978, downtown Nashville was experiencing the urban blight that affected many cities in the 1970s. In danger of closing, Tootsies was brought back to life by entrepreneur Steve Smith, who bought the club in 1992. Smith’s structural renovations and canny musical bookings, which included future country star Terri Clark, breathed new life into the club. Coinciding with this was the re- emergence of downtown Nashville as an entertainment district. Today, Tootsie’s provides a historic anchor amid a thriving entertainment scene.
Tootsies Orchid Lounge: Thirty-Four Steps and Fifty Years features a dozen photographs that capture memora- ble moments at Tootsies, both onstage and off, including shots of Jamey Johnson and Mel Tillis performing to- gether; Kenny Chesney and rocker Steve Miller onstage; and Kid Rock admiring the club’s décor, featuring walls plastered with 50 years of artist photographs. The exhibit will also include text panels and additional his- toric photos detailing the venerable club’s half-century of history.
www.countrymusichalloffame.org
THE MARSHALL TUCKER BAND CELEBRATES 40 YEARS OF MUSIC MTB Set to Release The Marshall Tucker Band: Greatest Hits on April 5
Forty years ago the Marshall Tucker Band roared out of Spartan- burg, South Carolina, at the dawn of the '70s, spurred on by cama- raderie and a hunger for adventure. They began forging a musical legacy that quickly turned into a legend. Their ability to blend rock, country, jazz and blues won them a fervent following and changed perceptions of what American pop music could be. On April 5, 2011, marking its 40th Anniversary, the Marshall Tucker Band re- leases The Marshall Tucker Band: Greatest Hits (Shout Factory). The 14-track album features original recordings of the songs that made the MTB a household name.
MTB traces its beginnings to the late 1960s, when lead guitarist Toy Caldwell and rhythm and blues singer Doug Gray formed the Toy Factory after the two of them returned from military service in Vietnam. In 1971 Toy and Doug assembled a new group, the MTB, with bassist Tommy Caldwell (Toy’s brother), rhythm guitarist George McCorkle, drummer Paul Riddle and reed player Jerry Eubanks. Naming their group after a local piano tuner, Marshall Tucker, they began playing Spartanburg area clubs, sharing the stage with the Allman Brothers and other Southern rock peers.
The Marshall Tucker Band built its lasting success on raw talent, inspired live shows and innovative, heartfelt songs. The release of this updated Greatest Hits album and continuing to tour regularly will keep adding to their legendary status as one of Southern Rocks greatest, innovative, and longest lasting bands.
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Mail CD's for Reviews To: by Brenda L. Madden Country Entertainment USA P.O. Box 100985 Up To 5 Star Rating Nashville, TN. 37224
Bobby G. Cargill - Ordinary Man www.bobbycargill.com Bobby G. Cargill gets the album rolling with the title cut, “Ordinary Man.” The first few notes feature a sweet country fiddle, which sets the tone for the entire pro- ject. All the songs, written by Bobby, build a solid foundation for this traditional country project. Obviously influenced by his Texas roots, his smooth, easy vocal arrangements match the movement of the steel guitar and fiddle very well. Overall, the CD has an authentic sound and well worth a listen.
Ron Tanski - Dragged You Down www.rontanskimusic.com This album was a little surprising, never expecting Ron Tanski’s vocals to turn down a musical path reminiscent of the legendary Louis Armstrong. His rich, blues vocals along with his unique piano style bring each of the twelve self-penned songs to life. Although a sparse production with all but three songs being piano/vocal, his voice captivates and dominates and puts a new spin on an old style with a little bit of jazz, some boogie woogie and a whole lot of blues. Nice.
Lathan Moore - Love In Your Life Blue Steel Records www.lathanmoore.com Lathan Moore mined coal to get enough money to come to Nashville - but there are no chunks of coal in this collection - it is chalked full of gems. A nice country “twang” sound makes this a pleasurable listen. Whether singing the ballad “Cornfield Cadillac” or the up-tempo, “I’d Rather Be Lucky Than Good,” Lathan delivers a believable and honest vocal that resonates well with traditional country music. He has made an impression with this - his debut CD - looking forward to seeing what comes next in his career.
PG 7 www.countryentertainmentusa.com
Interview with Country Artist Matt Bailie by Brenda L. Madden
Matt Bailie, a young, hand- line pumping. From the time his foot steps off the some and talented newcomer is bus and he makes his way to the stage, Matt is going making waves in country music full throttle and giving as much to the fans as he can circles. His traditional sound possibly give. He enjoys interacting with fans during mixed with a charisma and and after a show. Prior to the show, he will walk to charm rarely seen is reminis- the farthest seat and ask himself the question, “How cent of an early Garth Brooks. am I going to reach this person?” Commenting about the fans, he says, “Without them, you’ve got noth- That magnetism appeared at ing.” the early age of 15. He was performing with a rock band at the time, but it was a trip to Pensacola and an Although only in his early 20s, Matt Bailie shows a evening of karaoke that determined his musical direc- lot of maturity in his music (as evidenced by his self- tion. Although a fan of country music, it was not until titled debut CD) and wisdom in building a strong life that night that he realized his true calling. He remem- foundation with his wife and three-year old daughter. bers, “When I started singing, everybody in the room While Matt inherited his father’s musical ability, it stopped.” After returning home, Matt left the band to seems Matt’s young daughter may carry on the fam- follow his heart. ily tradition as well. Recently she grabbed a micro- phone and joined her father on stage unexpectedly; it Shortly thereafter, he tried his hand at songwriting. was a crowd-pleaser and the smile on Matt’s face as He and friend, Donnie Van Zant of 38 Special, began he relates the story is priceless. writing the song, “Man Behind These Eyes.” Tragi- cally, Matt never knew his father, who died in a plane crash when Matt was barely a toddler. The song was born out of his emotion and the question he so often asked, “What would it be like to know him if he were still around?”
By age 19, Matt was in Nashville taking the next step in his musical journey - studying studio engineering, performing late nights on lower Broadway and honing his songwriting skills. All were important pieces on the road to his dreams. During a writing session with Aaron Scherz, Matt pulled out the unfinished and very personal song, “Man Behind These Eyes.” Matt em- phasizes, “If I haven’t lived it, I won’t sing it.” He believes, in order to interpret the song and bring the emotion to the forefront, it must be experienced. As his songwriting skills grow, he still pulls from his per- Always a perfectionist, Matt states,” I want to make sonal experiences or that of a friend; but nonetheless, sure I give everybody the best performance possible.” there is a thread of something personal in each song It is that determination and integrity as well as his even if it is simply an idea about his camouflage hat. talent that will take him to his dreams!
While writing and recording are a rewarding part of www.mattbailiemusic.com his career, the live performances truly get his adrena-
PG 8 www.countryentertainmentusa.com
Pop Star Tiffany Releases Country Album “Rose Tattoo” by Holly Marie Tong She locked in listeners in the 1980’s ever heard. I find “Rose Tattoo” to be the perfect title as a fast rising teen pop star. She has for this album as it is not only the name of the Cali- graced the screens of televisions and fornia bar where Tiffany performed as a teenager but the pages of countless popular na- to me it also represents her positive individuality and tional magazines. She is the voice charisma that makes her an artist we all love and ap- behind the unforgettable hit single “I preciate. Think We’re Alone Now,” (which was originally a hit in 1967 by I had the privilege of Tommy James & the Shondells and attending Tiffany’s CD written by Ritchie Cordell). She has toured the world release party that was making a significant splash in the entertainment in- recently held at the Lis- dustry as a singer, songwriter and an actress. “She is tening Room, and I Tiffany” and don’t think for a minute that she is rest- was certainly “not ing on her laurels. While it is indisputably essential to alone” in my anticipa- understand Tiffany’s prior successes and star studded tion as this venue was journey, it is even more essential to understand that more packed than I had she is not only currently thriving, but her future is un- personally ever seen it. deniably bright and packed full of upcoming projects As soon as she hit the and exciting happenings. stage, it was certain as to why she has been so suc- cessful and why she will continue to experience that Interestingly, same fate. Tiffany is not only an outstanding vocalist while one may be but also a standout entertainer and a praiseworthy led to first associ- songwriter, having co-written all but one song on her ate Tiffany with new album. Upon listening to Rose Tattoo, you can pop music, she expect to hear everything from the upbeat, foot- actually began tapping party tunes that you will make you want to her career in get up out of your seat and dance such as “Feel the Nashville! At just Music,” and “Crazy Girls,” to the touching ballad 10 years old she “He Won’t Miss Me.” Tiffany shows how down to performed on the earth she truly is in her quirky tune “Just That Girl,” a Ralph Emery feel good number in which listeners can join her in Photo by Marc Cartwright show and it was the quest of learning to love their personal imperfec- at this age that she had already shared the stage with tions. Rose Tattoo strongly showcases a broad array George Jones, Jack Reeves and Johnny Lee. She can of influences, emotions and melodies successfully still recall taking in the country music scene, enjoying covering all bases and all audiences. Being influ- time at the Opryland theme park and watching her enced by everyone ranging from Patsy Cline to Bon- dreams take form right here in Music City. With that nie Raitt to Emmy Lou Harris to Stevie Nicks, Tif- said Tiffany is undoubtedly, deeply rooted in country fany knew she wanted an album that would have ele- music and has always wanted to release an album ments of everyone and everything. She knew she within this genre. Combining her appreciation for all wanted this project to be a fit for her personality and of her musical influences with her original and previ- a reflection of who she is, while showcasing her vo- ous chapters within her career, her album is truly one cals and bringing an edge. I would say she has done of the most well-rounded, diverse projects that I have just that…and exceedingly more!
PG 10 www.countryentertainmentusa.com
Tiffany’s current career excitement is far from ending absolutely loves being with her full band and enjoying here though, as she is also gaining recognition for her the country music scene. She said that what moves her acting skills. She just starred in a sy-fy channel movie is what makes her different and that true Tiffany fans with Debbie Gibson earning good ratings. “It was so know her passion and know her influences. Her sound much fun. I had such a good time with the fight scene. can be described as “organic country blues with a lit- It was my favorite scene and I really got into it,” tle flare of rock in it.” She says “Be refreshing, be smiles Tiffany. Having always been a huge sci-fi fan quirky and be comfortable in your own skin.” Tiffany jumped on the opportunity to do this project and understandably had a blast in doing so. She says Just from being around Tiffany, her encouragement that it will be in DVD form soon and should be avail- and positivity is contagious. When I asked her about able at places such as Wal-Mart and Redboxes. She career advice she stated, “Sometimes when you think has also appeared in a national commercial with you’ve lost everything, just know it will come back, Meatloaf and the CBS television shows “The Young it’s just a passing season, it’s not over. If you really & The Restless” and “How I Met Your Mother.” If love what you do, something will that isn’t enough for one person, she happen. Have a good time. Don’t also recently won VH1’s Celebrity ever think…oh, this place is a dive, Fit Club. Not surprisingly she has or it’s just karaoke because no mat- recently been featured in national ter how big or small, you are learn- articles and television shows. Tif- ing to work on your vocals. You fany says she would like to be in- need to know who you are before volved in more acting in the future people will pay attention. Sing in and would love to work with life- your room, do it for you…there is a time movies. Perhaps some more difference. Know your strength, sing science fiction could be also be ap- wherever you can whether its choir pearing on her future agenda. After or wherever it is, get involved.” all, she loves it and she sure is good at it! “I’m goofy and young at heart. I have a sense of humor. I’m a hard- Make no mistake, while Tiffany worker and a go-getter. I rise to all loves acting and is from California, occasions and I am thankful,” says she is currently residing right here Tiffany. I say without reservation in Nashville with her husband and that Tiffany knows precisely what son determined to enjoy a continued she is doing as she already has a meaningful music career of longev- Tiffany & Debbie Gibson loyal fan base and consistently gains ity. It is clear that she is here for the love of music new fans and friends everywhere she goes. I also say and the love of connecting with her fans. In the proc- without reservation that her natural, real, respectable ess, she enjoys supporting and encouraging others, character is equal to her incredible talent. Equipped forming friendships and networking. She places an with her past successes, her acting, her new raved emphasize on supporting the up and coming and about album, her continued worldwide attention and a spends a lot of time at various writers nights and com- sure-footed promising future, it is safe to say that Tif- munity events. While she has already obviously had fany is unstoppable….and I am rooting for her all the an established career, her humble ability to support, way! befriend and learn from others shines through making her not only an artist that I highly respect profession- ally but also personally. www.tiffanytunes.com
She is very grateful to her fans and always wants to thank them for allowing her to fulfill her dream. She
PG 11 www.countryentertainmentusa.com
My Spooooky Experience With The TN Wraith Chasers At All Access Coach Leasing by Holly Marie Tong I’m led to recall the famous words of realm that is difficult to understand or explain. the fictional Ghostbusters: “Who You Gonna Call?” Well in all seriousness Chris, who had a frightening occurrence in his grand- in this case, I would recommend you father’s barn years before was seeking answers. His call the TN Wraith Chasers com- desire to learn is what caused him to apply and win a prised of Founder/Team Leader spot on Syfy’s “Ghost Hunters Academy.” He was Christopher Smith, Investigator/ able to train and learn under paranormal investigators Researcher Scott Porter, Case Man- Steve Gonsalves and Dave Tango of Syfy’s number ager Steven McDougal AKA one rated television show “Ghost Hunters.” Mean- “Doogie,” Investigator Brannon Smith and Equipment while, Scott, Steven, Brannon, and Joe were all also Tech Joseph Tucker. You may find yourself wonder- curious about the paranormal based on different rea- ing precisely what a “Wraith Chaser” is. For starters, a sons and experiences. Through some mutual connec- Wraith Chaser is one who researches the paranormal tions and common goals, they collaborated forming the TN chapter. seeking the truth by being skeptical and logical about their studies. When I was given the chance to join the this
This particular group of guys on an investigation, I jumped group of guys on it as I found myself very curious about have already not only what they do, but what kind of ex- taken part in perience I may have in the process! Interest- countless investi- ingly the investigation that I happened to be gations in many part of took place at “All Access Coach historic venues Leasing” in Gallatin, TN. As an active mem- and landmarks ber of the Nashville music community, this around Tennessee was a particularly fascinating location for and Ken- me to visit on that simple fact alone. “All tucky….and they Access Coach Leasing” is the business be- do this for free! hind all the famous tour buses you associate Why? Because they are all driven by the will to learn with your favorite singers of numerous genres. Out- and the desire to present others with the truth of what side of the building you won’t be able to miss the nu- they see, hear and experience in what is known to be merous Prevost tour buses surrounding the area. “hot spots” for unexplainable activity. Upon walking in the well kept, professional setting you will see the walls lined with autographed photos Now to answer your likely question of how the TN of the entertainment industries biggest stars as they Wraith Chasers came to be? Each team member had are all clients of this successful leasing company. previously had an unexplainable occurrence or a founded drive that caused them to ponder the super- First though, it is important that I stress to you right natural. One important aspect to point out, is that the now, that when these guys go in for a study, they sim- Wraith Chasers are a group of men that have been ply do not fall for every noise or shadow. While they raised to follow the Bible and seem to share strict up- keep a close eye on their surroundings, they are not bringings in common. This common ground caused suspecting a ghost to be around each and every cor- me to relate to them and to realize that they are never ner. They are trained skeptics and extremely logical out to fluff or create anything that is not there, nor are by trying to explain “noises” or “questionable” hap- they ever out to disprove or discredit anything in the penings by first thinking about all outside influences word of God, but rather to give respect to it and to such as dust, pixels, wind currents, hot and cold air, provide studies and possible answers to the opposing and other scientific or environmental influences. PG 12 www.countryentertainmentusa.com
Unlike what you may remember from Ghostbusters, enced very strange interferences. I was the only fe- the TN Wraith Chasers are equipped with everything male in this building, yet my particular walkie talkie from full spectrum cameras, numerous other kinds of had a series of high pitched female voiced squeals on cameras that pick up on different lighting, a camcor- several occasions. Not only that, but the guys down- der, K-2 meters, walkie talkies, monitors, tripods, stairs was convinced that I was upstairs talking when I digital thermal guns and a “bunch of other stuff” that I hadn’t said a word in a long time. They were certain the newbie simply cannot remember (haha). In all se- that I was carrying on a conversation when really I riousness though just the detailed setup and pre- was silently sitting upstairs watching cameras at the planning within itself shows their professionalism and time. We also picked up “knocking on the door” in knowledge. They go in treating each investigation like which no one was behind. We experienced strange a crime scene. incidents with the lasers in which it was clear some-
We first met for an introduction and a question/ thing else was going on (the sound footsteps was later answer session with Eric Blankenship who currently detected). We also later discovered that we had gotten co-owns this business with Jim Boreli. Eric began by K-2 hits that we didn’t know about at the time. I telling us about the history of the building and the found myself standing in a “cold spot” at one time in strange happenings that current workers claim to be which there were no vents near me. I also made a experiencing. He told us that locked doors sound like comment about the Route 66 clock in the kitchen be- their opening whenever the secretary is there late at ing “off” on its time. Chris and I both took a look at it, night, workers suggest that items they put in one place and then I watched as it mysteriously went backwards, mysteriously end up in another. He went on to say that not forwards, but backwards from 6:16 to 6:00. Could he can never keep a battery operated clock working in this be explained by something else? Possibly, but it this room because in no time at all it simply stops no did cause me to shiver. However, even if all the above matter where he hangs it. However, we were all in could possibly be explained by outside influences, we agreement that this could possibly be caused by some- later experienced an incident that would forever thing scientific or environmental. Eric also recalled a change my take on everything. Throughout the night strange incident that was reported by another em- during the different sessions, the guys would mention ployee in which it really sounded like someone was different “names” and things that would be associated working in the garage, yet he was the only one there. with the history/the people who were associated with Getting goosebumps yet? I am all over again. it. Well, there came a time when the very “name” (that I must withhold for privacy reasons) that Once the setup was complete, it was time for us to was said by Scott, was repeated….and I don’t mean begin our studies and divide up into sessions and two repeated by one of us. Yes, that’s right. As we all lis- groups each time. Two of us would watch the cameras tened to the faint yet very clear, female voice over and upstairs while the remaining group would go down- over again, we all came into agreement of what was stairs to the declared “hot spots” and begin the investi- being said. gation. As we switched off throughout the night, un- explainable incidents continued to occur. We ended our investigation in the early morning hours and the guys went home with evidence that they My first indicator that something was off took place would spend countless hours restudying/replaying so when we were setting up. Scott and I both felt that the that they could present the owners and employees cord we were working with was being jerked on, with the truth at the reveal. A couple weeks later, we when there was no one around that could possibly be all met back at All Access Coach with Eric, his family doing so. Next strange occurrance, was a growl/ and some other employees to show them what we had possible message that was recorded on the MP3 found. I thought it was truly interesting how much can player. I was the only one in the main room at the be discovered later because sometimes the very things time and after the guys had all walked away, the chair you couldn’t see or hear at the time will pop up later. across from me (that should not have made any noise) These later discoveries take place because the guys sounded as if someone were getting up or sitting are so technical and the equipment they are using down. When I yelled for the guys, we witnessed the makes it difficult for paranormal activity to slip on by. shadow go across the wall and this voice was picked up. As the night went on, my walkie talkie experi- www.tennesseewraithchasers.com
PG 13 www.countryentertainmentusa.com THE WHIPPOORWILL
by Brenda L. Madden
On any given night in Nashville, there are countless venues showcasing everything from blues to bluegrass, so why drive to Gallatin for entertainment? Upon entering The Whip- poorwill, I understood.
Located in downtown Gallatin, The Whippoorwill inhabits the building that formerly housed the Swaney-Swift Drug Store, once a historic landmark. Loney Hutchins, noted entertainer and artist, envisioned The Whippoorwill years before coming to fruition. Along with his wife, Joan, they renovated the building with the theme, “make old new again.” The restoration included keeping some of the old décor, like the prescription sign above the bar. With seating for approximately 100 and a well-placed stage, there is not a bad seat in the house.
Open since October, The Whippoorwill has already at- tracted some impressive entertainment from Donna Ulisse & the Poor Mountain Boys to The McReynolds Tradition and The Wannabeatles. Not catering to any one genre, The Whippoorwill has something for every- one.
Not just a music venue, the Whippoorwill also offers up some fine southern-style food for lunch and dinner. While enjoying the evening entertainment, guests can savor delicious menu items like the Chicken Marinara, Herb Grilled Angus Burger, Grilled 10 oz. Sirloin, or the Whippoorwill Chop Salad just to mention a few - again there is something for everyone.
As an added bonus, The Whippoorwill is also an art gallery, which features a different local artist each month. Loney Hutchins and all those at The Whippoorwill have created an exceptional entertainment venue. Well worth the drive!
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Country Entertainment USA April Theater Roundup by Doug Dyer
With spring and its warm weather upon us, the focus for leisure activities in Middle Tennessee and elsewhere shifts outdoors. But in the month of April, plenty of choices remain if you still are feeling the last of the winter chill and need to go on an adventure to another country, solve a mystery or laugh at some good jokes, all from the comfort of your theater seat. Nashville and the surrounding area feature numerous stage productions, concerts, dinner thea- ters or comedy shows to cater to anyone’s taste. This is nowhere close to enough space to list them all, but Country Entertainment wanted to spotlight a few of the notables that might pique your interest as we get into the heart of spring.
Theater Sure, you can always go to the movies. Watching a live production, however, can whisk one right into the story. You see the characters’ pain, you feel their excitement. One of the largest theater venues in Nashville is the Ten- nessee Performing Arts Center, where you can see the lights of Broadway one night and laugh at Robin Wil- liams the next. April offers a diverse menu at TPAC, with Alfred Hitchcock’s “The 39 Steps” at the Tennessee Repertory Theater and the highly acclaimed Broadway musical “Cats” at TPAC’s Jackson Hall. The Nashville Ballet and Nashville Opera also have performances on the docket as well. Visit tpac.org or call 615-782-4000 for show and ticket information … The Belcourt Theatre located in the heart of Hillsboro Village offers live per- formances in addition to music and independent film events. No blockbusters here, though, only the essence of filmmaking. April will feature an assortment of short films and documentaries, in addition to the MDI Interna- tional Film Premiere April 14, which features “Drawing Back the Curtain,” a documentary about Media Design Imaging and its work with indie filmmakers and businesses to create new ways to communicate their message. Log onto belcourt.org or call 846-3150 for more about this or other events at the Belcourt … Other local produc- tions in April include “Godspell” at Pull-Tight Theatre in Franklin (pull-tight.com); “Crimes of the Heart” at Boiler Room Theatre (boilerroomtheatre.com); and “The Foreigner” at Chaffin’s Barn Dinner Theatre (dinnertheatre.com), and many more.
Music This is Music City USA, so there is never a shortage of live music to be found anywhere in the area. But for a break from the norm, the Nashville Symphony offers pumpkin coaches and guitar symphonies during April. The SunTrust Classical Series April 7-9 features works by Conni Ellisor, Rachmaninoff and Bruckner, while Dvorak’s Eighth Symphony will be the presentation April 21-23. The Guitar Orchestra of Barcelona performs April 14, and the Schermerhorn Center will host Show Hope’s 2nd Annual Spring Celebration with Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Cinderella.” More information is available at nashvillesymphony.org.
Comedy A good laugh can cure even the greatest ailments. And in today’s world, one can never have enough laughs. Za- nies Comedy Club is always happy to oblige when it comes to a variety of genres and personalities from across the comedy spectrum. Mark Curry from “Hangin’ With Mr. Cooper” will take the Zanies stage in April, along with Jon Reep from “Last Comic Standing” and Natasha Leggero, who has appeared on E!’s “Chelsea Lately.” Other notables on the horizon at Zanies are Killer Beaz, Kevin Pollack, James Gregory, Kathleen Madigan and Rob Schneider. Call Zanies at 269-0221 or visit nashville.zanies.com for a complete calendar and ticket informa- tion.
PG 15 www.countryentertainmentusa.com
Festivals Music Venues
Arizona Country Thunder Music Festival Bobby’s Idle Bar • (615) 726-0446 www.countrythunder.com 1028 16th Ave S., Nashville, TN. 37212 Florence, AZ April 7–10, 2011 John A's • (615) 885-1540 2421 Music Valley Dr, Nashville, TN. 37214 Nashville SongWriters Festival www.SongWritersFestival.org Nashville Center Stage • (615) 915-2043 Nashville, TN 514 8th Ave. S., Nashville, TN. 37203
June 3-5, 2011 Red Rooster • (615) 457-2781 1530 Demonbreun St., Nashville, TN. 37203 Country Fan Days www.countryfandays.com Smeraldo's • (615) 865-6533 Nashville, TN 701 Gallatin Pike N., Madison, TN. 37115 June 9-12, 2011 Tin Roof • (615) 313-7103 Wisconsin Country Thunder Music Festival 1516 Demonbreun St., Nashville, TN. 37203 www.countrythunder.com Twin Lakes, WI Tootsie's • (615) 726-0463 July 21-24, 2011 422 Broadway, Nashville, TN. 37203
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