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LATEST BAVPA ALUMNI NEWS AND UPDATES
DANIEL C. HENDERSON (2013) portrayed Bhaltasar in Public Theatre’s ( https://publictheater.org/ ) 2019 production, Much Ado About Nothing. PBS will broadcast the Great Performances filmed version through September 11; check local listings.
Much Ado’s virtual stream link:https://www.pbs.org/wnet/gperf/shakespeare-in-the-park-much-ado-about-nothing-about/9822/.
Henderson portrays President Hunter and Victoria’s First Son Jason in the Tyler Perry White House-based political drama, The Oval ( https://www.bet.com/shows/tyler-perrys-the-oval.html ) on the BET Network.
TVSeriesFinale.com article, The Oval: Season Two; Production Wraps Early for Tyler Perry BET Series:https://tvseriesfinale.com/tv-show/the- oval-season-two-production-wraps-early-for-tyler-perry-bet-series/.
GRACE STUMBERG (2007) is the protégé of iconic folk singer, songwriter, musician and activist JOAN BAEZ. Baez’s new biography, The Last Leaf ( https://www.palazzoeditions.com/joan-baez?lightbox=dataItem-k7agj1i44 ) by Elizabeth Thompson. The book draws on four decades of interviews with the folk legend and Stumberg is mentioned in the publication’ the book will be released October 1.
FolkRadio.co.UK article, JOAN BAEZ: THE LAST LEAF – A MAJOR NEW BIOGRAPHY BY ELIZABETH THOMSON: https://www.folkradio.co.uk/2020/08/joan-baez-the-last-leaf-biography-elizabeth-thomson/.
GABRIEL ROBERE’ (2005) and WGRZ-TV Channel 2’s CLAUDINE EWING (1988) and appeared in the 2018 action/sci-fi horror film, The First Purge, ( https://www.uphe.com/movies/the-first-purge ) starring Frank Grillo, Elizabeth Mitchell, Oscar winner Marisa Tomei and Patch Dorragh.
Educator, Saxophonist and Composer JAMES BRANDON LEWIS Quartet (2001) performs at Amherst, MA November 12: http://www.jblewis.com/.
Lewis will his latest CD, Molecular October 16 on Intakt Records ( http://www.intaktrec.ch/342.htm ), the recording features Brad Jones, Chad Taylor, and Aruan Ortiz .
Lewis’ CD, Live at Willisau (https://jamesbrandonlewis.bandcamp.com/album/live-in-willisau ) is on sale now.
VICTORIA PEREZ (1997) is the Co-Founder and Artistic Director of Raices Theatre Company (www.raicestheatrecompany.com), SMIRNA MERCEDES-PEREZ (1992) and LISETTE DEJESUS are RTC members; the theatre ensemble is celebrating its sixth anniversary.
RTC in conjunction with MusicalFare Theatre presents In the Heights at 710 Main Theatre (https://www.sheas.org/710-theatre/ ) November 30- December 6. For tickets and show times, go to link.
Playbill.com article, Checking In With… Andréa Burns, Star of On Your Feet!, In the Heights, Smart Blonde, More: https://www.playbill.com/article/checking-in-with-andrea-burns-star-of-on-your-feet-in-the-heights-smart-blonde-more.
Playbill.com article, In the Heights and Tina—The Tina Turner Musical Released on Vinyl September 4: https://www.playbill.com/article/in-the- heights-and-tinathe-tina-turner-musical-released-on-vinyl-september-4.
Playbill.com/ In the Heights related article, Celebrate Broadway With These 25 Musical Finales:https://www.playbill.com/article/celebrate- broadway-with-these-25-musical-finales.
Raices Theatre 2020 Artie Awards nominations, https://news.wbfo.org/post/theater-talk-more-artie-noms-torn-space-selling-sold-out .
Today.com article, Lin-Manuel Miranda says he channeled his father while playing Hamilton ( https://www.today.com/popculture/lin-manuel- miranda-s-father-luis-miranda-subject-siempre-luis-t191285 ), the documentary Siempre Luis ( https://www.hbo.com/documentaries/siempre- luis ) features political activist Luis Miranda and his famous son Lin-Manuel, who created and starred in Broadway musicals Hamilton and In the Heights, premieres on HBO October 6.
The Week.com article, National Museum of the American Latino gets closer to becoming a reality: https://theweek.com/articles/932205/national-museum-american-latino-gets-closer-becoming-reality.
SCOTT “GUS” POITRAS (1992) is the advanced carpenter in the San Francisco, CA staging of J.K. Rowling’s stage play, Harry Potter and The Cursed Child at Curran Theatre in San Francisco, CA:https://www.harrypottertheplay.com/san-francisco/.
DigitalSpy.com article, Harry Potter timeline: How to watch the entire series from Fantastic Beasts to The Cursed Child: https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a835822/harry-potter-timeline/.
Poitras was production carpenter in the Broadway musical comedy The Prom ( https://theprommusical.com/ ) closed August 18, 2019.
Deadline.com article, Ryan Murphy Shares First-Look Photo Of “Icon-Packed” Cast Of Netflix’s ‘The Prom’: https://deadline.com/2020/08/ryan- murphy-the-prom-netflix-meryl-streep-nicole-kidman-first-look-photo-of-the-prom-cas-1203027929/.
Broadway.com article, James Corden Shares Set Secrets From Working on The Prom Movie for Netflix https://www.broadway.com/buzz/199860/james-corden-shares-set-secrets-from-working-on-the-prom- movie-for-netflix/.
HollywoodReporter.com article, Ryan Murphy's 'The Prom' to Restart Production in Los Angeles (Exclusive): https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/ryan-murphys-prom-restarts-production-los-angeles-1304043.
Playbill.com/The Prom related article, Celebrate Broadway With These 25 Musical Finales: https://www.playbill.com/article/celebrate- broadway-with-these-25-musical-finales.
SCOTT “GUS” POITRAS (1992) was the Head Carpenter of the Broadway musical The Band’s Visit ( https://thebandsvisitmusical.com/ )at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre; production closed April 7, 2019 after 589 regular and 36 preview performances.
The Band’s Visit which was scheduled for April 14-19 at Shea’s Performing Arts Center ( https://www.sheas.org/ ) as part of its M&T Bank 2019-2020 Broadway Series, has been rescheduled to December 1-6. For tickets, go to link.
Poitras was the Advance Flyman on Sara Bareilles’ penned musical Waitress on Broadway at the Brooks Atkinson Theater ( https://waitressthemusical.com/), the production closed January 5, 2020 after 1544 performances.
Playbill.com/Waitress related article, Celebrate Broadway With These 25 Musical Finales: https://www.playbill.com/article/celebrate- broadway-with-these-25-musical-finales.
Author/Dancer/African Drum Instructor and Educator KRISTIN CRAGE’s (1988) publication, Woman to Woman-The Conversation, Part I is available for purchase: https://www.amazon.com/ Woman-Conversation-Part-I/dp/0692164618.
Woman to Woman-The Conversation, Part I Book Overview
This series is about the conversations we never had, need to have, and still can have. It’s about growing from girl to woman - living, loving and learning while finding self-worth and dignity in the face of serious setbacks and major challenges. This is the journey of releasing pain and anger, no judgment and no-holds-barred and finding the way to love. The Woman to Woman series is for every woman.
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Woman to Woman-Part II Book Overview
Woman to Woman-Part II is the continuing series about the conversations we never had, need to have, and still can have. It's about growing from girl to woman; living, loving and learning while finding self-worth and dignity in the face of serious setbacks and major challenges. This is the journey of all that is unspoken to find the way to love."
To order a copy of Woman to Woman II go to https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/woman- to-woman-the-conversation-part-ii-mother-daughter-sister-friend-kristin-a-crage/113747513 5?ean=9780578676456.
Singer, Multi-instrumentalist, Poet, Songwriter, Activist and Businesswoman ANI DIFRANCO (1987) to perform at SummerStage ( https://cityparksfoundation.org/summerstage/ ) in Central Park, NYC September 18.
ConsequenceofSound.com interview, Ani DiFranco on Capital Punishment, Working with Inmates, and the Prison Music Project: https://consequenceofsound.net/2020/08/kyle-meredith-with-ani-difranco-2/.
DiFranco is an advocate for The Breathe Act ( https://breatheact.org ) a legislation that would radically transform the nation's criminal justice system by eliminating life sentences, retroactively expunging drug crimes, shutting down multiple federal agencies and permanently closing prisons and immigration detention centers, among other agenda items. For more information about the bill, go to link.
Forbes.com/ DiFranco related article, How You Can Help Save Live Music: https://www.forbes.com/sites/sap/2020/08/11/how-you-can-help- save-live-music/#26c7c8a62bea.
SurferToday.com/DiFranco related article, The best quotes about the moon: https://www.surfertoday.com/environment/the-best-quotes-about- the-moon.
DifFranco portrayed the character of Persephone on the Anaïs Mitchell’s Hadestown concept album ( available now on Righteous Babe’s record label:https://www.righteousbabe.com/.
The Broadway musical Hadestown ( https://www.hadestown.com/ ) is onstage at the Walter Kerr Theatre. Hadestown is the first Broadway musical to feature a book, music, and lyrics by a sole female writer since Elizabeth Swados’ 1978 Runaways.
Broadway.com article, Miss Hearing Stage Manager Calls? Hadestown Assistant Stage Manager Cherie B. Tay Has Got It Covered: https://www.broadway.com/buzz/199838/miss-hearing-stage-manager-calls-hadestown-assistant-stage-manager-cherie-b-tay-has-got-it- covered/.
BroadwayWorld.com article, VIDEO: Eva Noblezada, Reeve Carney, André De Shields and Kimberly Marable Perform Songs From HADESTOWN: https://www.broadwayworld.com/article/VIDEO-Eva-Noblezada-Reeve-Carney-Andr-De-Shields-and-Kimberly-Marable-Perform- Songs-From-HADESTOWN-20200817.
BroadwayWorld.com article, HADESTOWN Announces Initial 2021 Tour Dates: https://www.broadwayworld.com/article/HADESTOWN- Announces-Initial-2021-Tour-Dates-20200203.
DiFranco’s memoir, No Walls and the Recurring Dream and audio recording are available for purchase: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/558143/no-walls-and-the-recurring-dream-by-ani-difranco/9780735225176/.
JESSE L. MARTIN (1987) portrays Central City Police Department’s Captain Joe West on the CW-TV ( http://www.cwtv.com/) superhero series, The Flash.
THE FLASH, RENT AND LAW & ORDER AND TICK TICK…BOOM! NEWS
Ew.com article, The Flash boss: Joe 'rises up' in season 7 story inspired by recent 'societal changes': https://ew.com/tv/the-flash-joe-west- season-7-eric-wallace/.
JoBlo.com article, THE CWVERSE OFFICIAL PROMO TRAILER (HD) DC/CW SUPERHERO SHOWS: https://www.joblo.com/movie-trailers/the- cwverse-official-promo-trailer-hd-dccw-superhero-shows.
CheatSheet.com article, 'The Flash' Season 7 Trailer Teases a Dark Chapter for Team Flash: https://www.cheatsheet.com/entertainment/grant- gustin-is-gearing-up-for-the-flash-with-workout-routines-from-this-fitness-pro.html/.
ScreenRant.com article, The Flash Season 7's Biggest Teases So Far (New Captain Cold?) https://screenrant.com/flash-season-7-story- character-teases-setup-captain-cold/.
Meaww.com article, Justice League's Hall Of Justice: Did the Arrowverse beat Zack Snyder in showing the team's new headquarters? https://meaww.com/justice-league-hall-of-justice-arrowverse-dc-zack-snyder-cut-crisis-on-infinite-earths-the-cw.
SyFy.com article THE FLASH'S ELONGATED MAN WILL BE BACK FOR A SHORT STRETCH IN SEASON 7, BUT NOT HOW YOU'RE EXPECTING: https://www.syfy.com/syfywire/the-flash-elongated-man-recast-season-7.
Fandomwire.com article, 15 Facts About The CW Show Flash Fans Don’t Known About: https://fandomwire.com/15-facts-about-the-cw-show- flash-fans-dont-known-about-ia/.
ScreenRant.com article, Arrowverse Timeline Explained: When Every Show & Crossover Takes Place:https://screenrant.com/arrowverse- timeline-shows-crossovers-explained/.
ScreenRant.com article, Every Arrowverse Spinoff Crisis On Infinite Earths Set Up: https://screenrant.com/arrowverse-crisis-infinite-earths- spinoffs-teases-setup/.
ScreenRant.com article, Every Flash Character Whose Post-Crisis Fates Are Still A Mystery: https://screenrant.com/flash-characters-after- crisis-infinite-earths-fates-unknown/.
ScreenRant.com article, Original Arrowverse Plan Didn't Include The Multiverse Or Crisis: https://screenrant.com/arrowverse-original-plan- multiverse-crisis-infinite-earths-crossover/.
Fox21.com/Arrowverse related article, THE CW NETWORK TO LAUNCH ITS NEW SEASON IN JANUARY 2021: https://www.fox21news.com/on-soco-cw/the-cw-network-to-launch-its-new-season-in-january-2021/.
HeroicHollywood.com article, ‘The Flash’ Showrunner Eric Wallace Wants Ezra Miller & Grant Gustin Reunion: https://heroichollywood.com/the-flash-grant-gustin-ezra-miller-reunion-showrunner-comments/.
FanBolt.com article, THE FLASH SEASON 6 DVD REVIEW: BLU-RAY REVIEW: https://www.fanbolt.com/109537/the-flash-season-6-dvd- review-blu-ray-review/.
Broadway.com article, Watch Anthony Rapp, Adam Pascal & More Rent Alums Perform 'Will I?' for Be An Arts Hero: https://www.broadway.com/buzz/199887/watch-anthony-rapp-adam-pascal-more-rent-alums-perform-will-i-for-be-an-arts- hero/?fbclid=IwAR2iYoACcWLUdtst6u_XLq6Cr30h6p198WHxFA-R2glHWAE9ke07cjXYQRI.
Newseek.com article, 'Law & Order' debuted 30 years ago this week; What did Newsday think? https://www.newsday.com/entertainment/tv/law-and-order-premiere-1.49097215.
Playbill.com/Rent related article, 15 Cast Albums All Musical Theatre Students Should Know: https://www.playbill.com/article/15-cast-albums- all-musical-theatre-students-should-know.
BroadwayWorld.com article, Broadway Rewind: Lin-Manuel Miranda, Leslie Odom Jr. & Karen Olivo Sing TICK, TICK... BOOM! https://www.broadwayworld.com/article/Broadway-Rewind-Lin-Manuel-Miranda-Leslie-Odom-Jr-Karen-Olivo-Sing-TICK-TICK- BOOM- 20200801.
MARK PAULK (1981) is the father of actor Marcus T. Paulk ( of Moesha comedy series and George Lucas’ Red Tails film fame). Marcus is starring in the horror thriller film, Call Time: https://www.gainesville.com/story/sports/columns/dooley/2020/08/15/horror-film-production- makes-use-of-old-alachua-house/42212511/.
Essence.com article, 'Moesha' Is Finally On Netflix, And The Cast Is Giving Plenty Of Fall Fashion Inspiration: https://www.essence.com/fashion/the-cast-of-moesha-is-giving-us-fall-inspiration/.
Moesha’s TV series official Netflix site, https://www.netflix.com/title/81269464.
People.com article, Brandy Says She's 'in Talks' for a Moesha Reboot: 'I Don't See It Not Happening': https://people.com/tv/brandy-in- talks-for-a-moesha-reboot/.
WMagazine.com article, W TV Club: Moesha’s Impact: https://www.wmagazine.com/story/w-tv-club-moesha-netfilx/.
Gizmodo.com article, In Praise of Moesha’s 1979 Volkswagen Type 181: ttps://www.gizmodo.com.au/2020/08/in-praise-of-moeshas-1979- volkswagen-type-181/amp/.
EOnline.com article, See Brandy and the Rest of the Moesha Cast Then and Now: https://www.eonline.com/news/1177482/see-brandy-and-the- rest-of-the-moesha-cast-then-and-now.
BAVPA ALUMNI (GRADUATION YEARS UNKNOWN) and MISCELLANEOUS NEWS
Author A.A. LEWIS wrote the Buffalo-Based 90’s urban novels, The 716 Back to Business, The 716 Love & Consequences and The 716 Ladies First are available for purchase: https://dspublishing.net/.
CRISANTA MELENDEZ was the visual effects coordinator for the upcoming military science fiction action film, Snake Eyes: G.I. Joe Origins; the film opens nationwide June, 2021.
ScreenRant.com article, G.I. Joe Spinoff Movie Snake Eyes Pushed Back To 2021: https://screenrant.com/gi-joe-snake-eyes-movie-release-date-delay-2021/amp/.
MovieWeb.com article, Snake Eyes Star Promises G.I. Joe Fans Are 'In for Something Insane' After Watching Movie: https://movieweb.com/snake-eyes-movie-henry-golding-update/.
KEN C. SAYRES is the author of the marriage publication, Love is Not Enough: But with God: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/love-is-not-enough-6.
BuffaloHealthyLiving.com article, Be Enriched Buffalo Learning Enrichment Television ( https://buffalohealthyliving.com/be-enrichment- buffalo-learning-enrichment-television/ ) the BLETV ‘s Be Enriched program runs through October 2.
AMERICAN HIGH MOTION PICTURE CASTING CALL
Syracuse.com/ American High article, Want to be in a movie? American High needs you for 8th film in Syracuse: https://www.syracuse.com/entertainment/2020/09/want-to-be-in-a-movie-american-high-needs-you-for-8th-film -in-syracuse.html?fbclid=IwAR2yo4r1lP8iUjEzREK-ho1A4tgufhu_3WVxvYyjy766zs_TDfcYXQa1ffg.
BAVPA FACULTY, STAFF & FRIENDS
KELLY BEUTH is a BAVPA Theatre teacher and CAROLINE SANDERS-PARZY are members of the Brazened Faced Varlets Theatre Company: http://www.varlets.org/. BFVTC presents My Left Breast written by Susan Miller featuring Lara Haberberger March 19-April 2 2021.
News.WBFO.org/Varlets and Buffalo Theatres related news:https://news.wbfo.org/post/theater-talk-doug-weyand-virtual-curtain-sept-18- 8pm?fbclid=IwAR21rTcKqnpVu_cAnujuGGfMOMtUxiSH-fTaUMOd20dIs6-ULFlE2V33m70.
Actor, Director and Acting Instructor JOSIE DIVINCENZO ( http://www.josiedivincenzo.com/ ) conducts film and TV acting classes. For more information, see poster or go to link.
DiVincenzo appeared in the 2020 Christian sci-fi apocalyptic motion picture, G.O.D. ( Givers of Death) directed by Addison Henderson) ; the film wimade its world premiere and be in competition at the 24th Annual American Black Film Festival ( https://www.abff.com/ ) August 21-30.
G.O.D. ( Givers of Death) won the AABFF Jury Award for Best Screenplay ( https://deadline.com/2020/08/american-black-film-festival-abff- award-winners-virtual-edition-1203027500/ ) at the August 30
TheChallengerNews.com article, A Film About a Pandemic in the Midst of a Pandemic : Addison Henderson’s Film G.O.D. Makes its World Premiere at the 24th Annual American Black Film Festival! https://thechallengernews.com/2020/08/a-film -about-a-pandemic-in-the-midst-of-a-pandemic-addison-hendersons-film-g-o-d-makes-its-world-premiere-at-the-24th-annual -american-black-film-festival/?fbclid=IwAR0TnG0I8HCKPlIRv-syM6mSxk8vRddhi4m8RsVx0A7pPLYgkStXJSivUmU .
SAUL ELKIN is founder of the Jewish Repertory Theatre of WNY (http://jewishrepertorytheatre.com/) and Shakespeare in Delaware Park: http://shakespeareindelawarepark.org/.
Artvoice.com/SDP article, Shakespeare in Delaware Park Touring Schedule: https://artvoice.com/2020/08/08/128329/.
News.WBFO.org article, Theater Talk: Shakespeare in Delaware Park sells out live shows, most tees, masks still available: https://news.wbfo.org/post/theater-talk-shakespeare-delaware-park-sells-out-live-shows-most-tees-masks-still-available.
BuffaloRising.com article, Increasing Racial Diversity in Orchestra: Q&A with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra featuring BPO ‘s Lead Conductor JOANN FALETTA: https://www.buffalorising.com/2020/08/increasing-racial-diversity-in-orchestra-qa-with-the-buffalo- philharmonic-orchestra/.
IdeaStream.org article, Conductor JoAnn Falletta Comes to the Cleveland Institute of Music: https://www.ideastream.org/wclv/conductor- joann-falletta-comes-to-the-cleveland-institute-of-music.
The BPO’s first concert A Celebration of the Seasons, September 26 at 8PM. For more information about the concert, go to https://bpo.org/ .
STEPHEN MCKINLEY HENDERSON to star in the sci-fi classic remake, Dune ( https://www.warnerbros.com/movies/dune ) directed by Denis Villeneuve; the film is slated for December 18 release.
TheVerge.com article, The first Dune trailer worms its way online: https://www.theverge.com/2020/9/9/21075594/dune-movie-trailer-denis- villeneuve-paul-atreides-timotee-chalamet-spice-sandworm-rebecca-ferguson
Flickering Myth.com article, Dune could be the next Lord of the Rings says art director: https://www.flickeringmyth.com/2020/08/dune-could- be-the-next-lord-of-the-rings-says-art-director/.
Henderson portrayed Stewart in the upcoming FX ( https://www.fxnetworks.com/ ) science fiction limited series, Devs on FX/Hulu.
Devs was nominated for four Emmy awards in the technical fields, Outstanding Sound Mixing For A Limited Series Or MovieOutstanding Sound Editing For A Limited Series, Movie Or Special and Outstanding Special Visual Effects In A Supporting Role and Outstanding. Cinematography For A Limited Series Or Movie; the Emmy Awards ( https://www.emmys.com/ ) is scheduled for September 20 at the Microsoft Theatre in Los Angeles, CA.
AwardsDaily.com article, Emmy-Nominated Re-Recording Mixer Howard Bargroff Brings a Whole New Sound to ‘Devs’: https://www.awardsdaily.com/2020/08/24/emmy-nominated-re-recording-mixer-howard-bargroff-brings-a-whole-new-sound-to-devs/.
Ujima Theatre (https://www.ujimacoinc.org/ ) and Pure Ink Poetry ( https://pureinkpoetry.com/ ) founder BRANDON WILLIAMSON ( 2002) presents SPOKEN a three part series of fire-spitting word and poetry at Silo City, 120 Silo City Row, Buffalo September 13, 20 and 27 at 4PM. Masks are required for the event and donations are welcome; seating is limited and bring a chair.
Retired BAVPA Theatre and Ujima Theatre Founder LORNA C. HILL passed away June 30, 2020. Hill’s productions, Pipeline and Passing Strange were nominated for Artie Awards: https://news.wbfo.org/post/theater-talk-more-artie-noms-torn-space-selling-sold-out.
SANDRA LEE FOLEY-HITCHCOCK is the creator of The BAVPA Beacon’s newsletter header, BAVPA Class of 2016 logo who also designs graphics and websites. Hitchcock designed the BAVPA 41 Years strong logo honoring the past and present school colors.
For more information about Hitchcock’s work, go to www.warandra- productions.com/Website_ Hosting_and_Design.html.
Irish Classical Theatre’s (https://irishclassical.com/ ) and former BAVPA Theatre Teacher FORTUNATO PEZZIMENTI directs the virtual theatre production, Sea Marks (running October 16-November 1. For tickets and show times, go to link.
Artvoice.com/Sea Marks related article, https://artvoice.com/2020/09/08/irish-classical-theatre-celtic-connections-all-hands-on-deck-building- a-set-episode-4/.
WHAT HAS HAPPENED
SpectrumLocalNews.com interview with BAVPA alumna and aspiring singer/songwriter, NINA MONAE: https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nys/buffalo/news/2020/08/17/buffalo-singer-using-the-power-of-music- for-social-justice-#.
BAVPA alumna JADA SPIGHT (2018) , a Buffalo native and daughter of LEE L. SPIGHT JR. (1988), MICHELLE SPIGHT and sister to ALEXIS SPIGHT (2011), fellow BAVPA alumni took second place on the BET-TV network ( https://www.bet.com/shows/sunday-best.html ) Gospel reality show competition, Sunday Best. Congratulations Jada and BAVPA Love!
SpectrumLocalNews.com report, Buffalo Gospel Singer Finishes 2nd in National Singing Competition: https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nys/buffalo/human-interest/2020/08/24/buffalo-gospel-singer-finishes- 2nd-in-national-singing-competition#.
BAVPA alumna SIDNEY FLANIGAN (2016) appeared in the critically acclaimed and award winning indie film, Never Rarely Sometimes Always: https://www.focusfeatures.com/never-rarely-sometimes-always.
FlauntMagazine.com article, SIDNEY FLANIGAN/ NEVER RARELY SOMETIMES ALWAYS: https://flaunt.com/content/sidney-flanigan.
Check out JAY DREF’S (2009) new album, Drifting: https://open.spotify.com/album/5EDm1O5wfTdZMGTMvE0bzV .
Celebrity Make Up Artist SIR JOHN BARNETT (2000) created the Luminess Cosmetics Limited Edition/Disney’s The Lion King Make Up Collection: https://www.luminessbeauty.com/disney/Home.
WWD.com/Barnett related article, Outside View: Black Unison — Voices of Makeup Artists Journalist and stylist Zadrian Smith in conversation with Black makeup artists Ashunta Sheriff-Kendricks, Sir John Barnett and Tasha Reiko Brown on how tracing our roots back to Africa, education, self-love and mental health are key to dismantling systems of oppression and discrimination: https://wwd.com/fashion-news/fashion-features/outside-view-black-unison-voices-of-makeup-artists-1203664322/.
Refinery.com 2019 article, We Spent An Hour With Beyoncé's Makeup Artist — & Learned So Much: https://www.refinery29.com/en- ca/beyonce-makeup-artist-sir-john-tips.
ROOVELT TIDWELL ( 1989 ) appeared in the AACC Paul Robeson Theatre’s (https://www.aaccbuffalo.org/ ) August Wilson play, Two Trains Running: the production was nominated an Artie Award for Outstanding Ensemble of a Play: https://news.wbfo.org/post/theater-talk-more- artie-noms-torn-space-selling-sold-out.
Children Book Illustrator/Educator and Musician SHANE W. EVANS publication, We March will be featured on Netflix Bookmarks: Celebrating Black Voices ( https://www.netflix.com/title/81303906 ), the limited series features Black celebrities and artists reading children’s books written by Black authors, which highlights the Black experience hosted by Marley Dias.
Variety.com article, Netflix Sets ‘Bookmarks: Celebrating Black Voices’ Preschool Series With Tiffany Haddish, Lupita Nyong’o and Common: https://variety.com/2020/tv/news/netflix-celebrating-black-voices-live-action-preschool-series-tiffany-haddish-lupita-nyongo-common- 1234738586/. Bookmarks TV series official website, https://www.netflix.com/title/81303906.
The BAVPA Beacon is sad to report the passing of BAVPA friend BEN VEREEN’s son, BENJAMIN VEREEN, JR. who passed away August 8. The BAVPA alumni, staff, faculty and friends offer our condolences to the VEREEN family and they are in our thoughts and prayers.
From left, VERNON DUNCAN, GILBERT HARGRAVE and CHARLIE WILSON grew up around the former Offerman Stadium occupied now by BAVPA; Wilson is holding a replica of the stadium which was on the site that eventually was torn down in 1962.
BuffaloNews.com/BAVPA related news article, At Offermann, Jackie Robinson wasn't the only one who zeroed in on home: https://buffalonews.com/sports/baseball/at-offermann-jackie-robinson-wasnt-the-only-one-who-zeroed-in-on-home/article_ 126cc420-e86d-11ea-a599-b7a02458ffc9.html .
ObserverToday.com/ Buffalo Bison’s Offerman Stadium related article, Book on Buffalo baseball history nears publication date:https://www.observertoday.com/sports/local- sports/2020/08/book-on-buffalo-baseball-history-nears-publication-date/.
SpectrumLocalNews.com report, Book on Buffalo's Baseball History Debuts Cover: https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nys/buffalo/sports/2020/08/23/book-on-buffalo-s- baseball-history-debuts-cover.
WYRK.com/Offerman Stadium BAVPA related article, Babe Ruth Once Played Baseball Games in Buffalo: https://wyrk.com/babe-ruth-once- played-baseball-games-in-buffalo/.
BAVPA MUSICAL FLASHBACKS & FUTURE MAJOR MEDIA PRODUCTION NEWS
BAVPA presented Dreamgirls directed by ANDREW KOTTLER, KAREN SAXON in 2015; the stellar production featured numerous and talented BAVPA alumni, staff and faculty.
BAVPA staged the Kenny Award winning musical West Side Story in 2016; the original BAVPA production performed at the former Pfeifer Theatre in Buffalo’s Theatre District in 1999.
BAVPA staged West Side Story at the Pfeifer Theatre in 1999.
BAVPA and Raices Theatre ( https://raicestheatrecompany.com/) staged) West Side Story ( 2016, 1999) and In the Heights ( 2020 & 2018).
Playbill.com/West Side Story related article, 15 Cast Albums All Musical Theatre Students Should Know: https://www.playbill.com/article/15- cast-albums-all-musical-theatre-students-should-know.
MSN.com article, Politician Tulsi Gabbard, ‘West Side Story’ star Rita Moreno among influential women from U.S. territories:https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/politician-tulsi-gabbard-west-side-story-star-rita-moreno-among- influential-women-from-us-territories/ar-BB17VJYT.
TheSun.co.uk article, WEST SIDE GLORY Steven Spielberg writes black characters into his West Side Story remake: https://www.thesun.co.uk/tvandshowbiz/12438844/spielberg-black-characters-west-side-story/.
DanceMagazine.com article, What Steven Spielberg Taught Dancer Kellie Drobnick on the Set of West Side Story: https://www.dancemagazine.com/kellie-drobnick-2647050664.html?rebelltitem=1#rebelltitem1.
BorneoBulletin.com article, There was a place for ‘West Side Story’ on the big screen in 1961: https://borneobulletin.com.bn/2020/08/there- was-a-place-for-west-side-story-on-the-big-screen-in-1961/.
Playbill.com article, Miscast Memory: Lin-Manuel Miranda and Raúl Esparza Sing 'A Boy Like That' From West Side Story: https://www.playbill.com/article/miscast-memory-lin-manuel-miranda-and-raul-esparza-sing-a-boy-like-that-from-west-side-story.
ScreenRant.com/West Side Story related article, Natalie Wood's 10 Best Movies, According To Rotten Tomatoes: https://screenrant.com/natalie-wood-best-movies-rotten-tomatoes/.
SFCV.org/West Side Story related article, The Jigsaw Puzzle of Putting an Orchestra Onstage During a Pandemic: https://www.sfcv.org/article/the-jigsaw-puzzle-of-putting-an-orchestra-onstage-during-a-pandemic.
The BAVPA Kenny Award nominated musical Les Mise'rables was performed in 2019, BAVPA MATTHEW WILSON (who portrayed Jean Valjean in Les Misérables), represented WNY at the 2019 Jimmy Awards ( https://kennyawards.weebly.com/2019-kenny-awards.html ) held in NYC.
Playbill.com /Les Mise’rables related article, Celebrate Broadway With These 25 Musical Finales: https://www.playbill.com/article/celebrate- broadway-with-these-25-musical-finales.
PasteMagazine.com/Les Mise’rables related article, The 25 Best British Costume Dramas (and Where to Watch Them): https://www.pastemagazine.com/tv/streaming/best-period-pieces/#1-downton-abbey.
BAVPA in conjunction with Buffalo State College presented The Wiz in 1987 that featured ERIC DOSS (1988), GWEN MCQUILLER (1988) , LEE ALLEN SPIGHT, JR. (1988) and DANIEL DOCTOR as Scarecrow; the production featured numerous BAVPA alumni, staff and faculty.
The BAVPA Beacon is sad to report the passing of The Wiz Broadway musical composer and choreographer, TIMOTHY GRAPHENREED passed away March 1. The BAVPA alumni, staff, faculty and friends offer our condolences to the GRAPHENREED family and they are in our thoughts and prayers.
AFI.com article, AFI Movie Club: THE WIZ:https://www.afi.com/news/afi-movie-club-the-wiz/.
BAVPA and Upstage New York co-produced Damn Yankees at Artpark in Lewiston, NY May 20-24, 1987. The show ( directed by FORTUNATO PEZZIMENTI ) featured BAVPA students and faculty that included STEVEN GLASSMAN, EDSON GIFFORD III, RUSSELL LINK, CLAUDIA MARSCHALL and the late ALLENE BUCKLEY. One of the lead roles; Mr. Applegate, was played by JESSE L. MARTIN, (1987).
Playbill.com/Damn Yankees related article, Celebrate Broadway With These 25 Musical Finales: https://www.playbill.com/article/celebrate- broadway-with-these-25-musical-finales.
Playbill.com/ Damn Yankees related article, 15 Cast Albums All Musical Theatre Students Should Know: https://www.playbill.com/article/15- cast-albums-all-musical-theatre-students-should-know.
Playbill.com article, 13 Essential Books for Theatre Students: https://www.playbill.com/article/13-essential-books-for-theatre-students.
JOSEPH MAHFOUD (1984) portrayed the lead role of Conrad Birdie in the BAVPA 1985 production, Bye Bye Birdie, directed by CLAUDIA MARSCHALL. The production featured JESSE L. MARTIN (1987), played Albert Peterson ( Conrad’s record company president andinformally his agent); GINA DORMER (1986) played Rosie, Peterson’s secretary (and girlfriend); JAMES WALKER (1987) portrayed Mr.McAfee; DENA MURRAY played Mrs. McAfee; CRYSTAL SYMS (1985) played Kim McAfee,JAY INGERSON (1987) played Randolph McAffee; the late KENNETH DOYLE (1987) played Hugo ( Kims’ boyfriend) and numerous BAVPA alumni.
Bye Bye Birdie musical trivia, did you know the sequel to Bye Bye Birdie played the Al Hirschfeld theatre? Yes, there was a sequel to Bye Bye Birdie! Bring Back Birdie, which featured a book by Michael Stewart, lyrics by Lee Adams, and music by Charles Strouse, followed Conrad Birdie, trying to make a comeback at the Grammy Awards. The musical debuted at the Al Hirschfeld (then the Martin Beck Theatre) in 1981, and ran for four performances.
Playbill.com article, Look Back at Chita Rivera and Donald O'Connor in Bring Back Birdie on Broadway: https://www.playbill.com/article/look- back-at-chita-rivera-and-donald-oconnor-in-bring-back-birdie-on-broadway.
Broadway.com article, Goin' Steady for a Great Cause! Watch This Adorable Performance of 'Telephone Hour' from Bye Bye Birdie: https://www.broadway.com/buzz/199863/goin-steady-for-a-great-cause-watch-this-adorable-performance-of-telephone-hour-from-bye-bye- birdie/.
BAVPA presented the 1984 production Our Town ( directed by FORTUNATO PEZZIMENTI ) featuring JESSE L. MARTIN (1987) as George Gibbs, CHRISTINA MARIE BYKOWICZ (1985) as Emily Webb and numerous BAVPA alumni; DAVID FENDRICK ( who portrayed The Narrator), passed away in 1988.
Playbill.com/ Our Town related article, The Play Lover’s Glossary: 10 Terms to Know Before Opening the Script: https://www.playbill.com/article/the-play-lovers-glossary-10-terms-to-know-before-opening-the-script.
A Buffalo production of Runaways was directed by FORTUNATO PEZZIMENTI, featured BAVPA alumni. The production was performed at Center Theatre (now Town Ballroom in downtown Buffalo in 1982; ELIZABETH SWADOS ( who created the musical), attended one of the performances). Runaways was staged again at Artpark in Lewiston, NY in 1983; Swados passed away January 5, 2016. Swados won an Obie Award for Best Director.
Pantochino’s acclaimed Teen Theatre company/theatre workshop in West Haven, CIpresents Runaways January 2-February 8 as it’s Winter 2021 project. Featuring book, music and lyrics by Elizabeth Swados, the show is a collection of songs, dances, and spoken word pieces about young people who have run away from their homes. Initially created from interviews with homeless children and those in orphanages, Swados weaves songs about personal struggle and the world at large through the eyes of youth in New York City in the ’70s. The show blends different musical styles, from pop to hip-hop and jazz to reggae. To register ( limit 30 students), go to http://www.pantochino.com/teen-theatre.
Wikipedia’s Runaways musical web link, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Runaways_(musical).
UPCOMING BAVPA EVENTS AND HIGH SCHOOL REUNION NEWS
BAVPA YEARBOOK SALE
BAVPA yearbooks are on sale for the following years while supplies last. 1984, 1985, 1986, 1994, 1996, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015. Yearbooks are $20.00 each or three for $50.00 and may be picked up at the school. For more information, contact Sheila at [email protected].
Call (716) 816-4220 or go to ( http://www.buffaloartsacademy.org/ ) for more information.
BAVPA ALUMNI EDUCATORS
STEVE APPLER (1981), Visual Art Teacher, Amherst High School
KAREN TOMZAK (1981), Program Director of Dance at Western University, Cullowhee, North Carolina
DEBORAH LIPA-CIOTTA (1982), Tapestry Charter School, K-4 Dance Teacher
ARLENE SHORT (1982), Patient Health Navigator, Buffalo
OMAR CARTER (1984), Arts Teacher, Philadelphia, PA
CAITLIN BAUMLER-COLEMAN (1984), Tapestry Charter School, K-8, Grade ½ Teacher
TRACEY HOLT-COFIELD (1984), Principal, Tapestry Charter School, Buffalo
DONNA KERR (1984),City Honors Music, Buffalo
MICHAEL STARZYNSKI (1984), Waterfront School, 1st Grade Teacher
ARTHUR PERRY (1984), Crossing Guard, Volunteer Librarian Aid, Clear Creek Elementary School, Kileen/Temple, TX
TINA “CHRISTINA” WALKER-BYKOWICZ (1985), Nursery School and Elementary School Educator
JOSEPH MICHAEL MAHFOUD (1985), Retired Tapestry Charter High School, Music Teacher
GEORGE DAVIS (1986), BAVPA Arts Vocal and Music Teacher
ROMONA THOMAS-REYNOLDS (1986), Principal, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Multicultural Institute, Public School #39
JAY INGERSON (1987), BAVPA Arts Theatre Instructor
ORNIECE HILL (1988), Principal BPS School #43
JODY COVINGTON (1988), BAVPA Principal
KU’WONNA MAHONE INGRAM (1988), University of Phoenix Adjunct Instructor and Principal at Lee County Youth Development Center, AL
LISA HANNA-MATHEWS (1988), Ethics and Project Management Professor, Georgetown University and University of Maryland
HOLLY QUICKSEY (1988), Ph.D. Assistant to the Dean & Assistant Director of MECHS Programs, SUNY Buffalo State College
MARC RUMMENIE (1988), The Gow School, South Wales, NY
LESLIEANNE BIRD (1990), Teaching with Orff Music and Movement Educator, North Olmstead, OH
ORNIECE HILL ( 1990), Assistant Principal, South Park High School, Buffalo
JOSEPH MOBERLY (1991), House Electrician at Shea's Buffalo Theatre
MICHAEL WEIDRICH (1991), Executive Director, Young Audiences of WNY
SEAN CLEMENTS (1992), Bronx, NY
DAVID PATERSON (1992), Thomas Jefferson Elementary School, P.S. #22, Queens, NY
MATTHEW HURLEY (1994), Middle School Teacher, Raleigh, NC
JESSE MANK (1994), Tapestry Charter High School, English Teacher
LIZ YOUNG (1995), Professor of Graphic Design and Illustration, Pace University, NY
PATRICIA ENFIELD (1996), Elementary Education
TAMMY GAGOLA (1996), Elementary Education
NICOLE JONES (1996), BAVPA Dance
ERNEST KEEN (1996), Physical Education, Rochester
LISA SANTIAGO (1996), Vocal Music
LUCY ALTIERI (1997), Visual Arts
MICHEL DEVANS (1997), Tapestry Charter School, Buffalo
TANDY GREEN (1997), Elementary Education
EMILY BALL, LMT (1997) HEAT Center ( http://www.heat.center/ ) Founder, Massage Therapist; Reiki, Energy & Spirit Work Educator/Mentor
GINA DORMER 1986 Music, School #81, Buffalo
PAUL M. SIEKIERSKI (1999), Music
MARIA INTORRE (2000), Elementary Charter School
DENNIS YACOBUCCI (2001), Brooklyn Special Education
CHRISTOPHER RUDROFF (2002), Music
SHAWN M. ISAACS (2004), Assistant Director of Life Residence at Alfred University
JYESHA CLARK (2005), Founder of Ms. Jye’s Music Corner
CONNOR GRAHAM (2011), Graduate Teaching Assistant/Graduate Student at Ohio State University’s Department of Theatre
LIZ BAILEY (Unknown), Todd County Middle School, Elkton, KY
LISA BAINES-DANIELS (Unknown), BPS Adult Education Division
MICHELE DEVANS, 1st Grade Teacher at Tapestry Charter School, Buffalo
DARREN BROWN (Unknown), BPS Chief of Staff, Buffalo
YOLANDA FIELDS (Unknown), Buffalo Garden Walk Chairperson
RONDA GORDON (Unknown), President of the Forsyth County Association of Educators, GA
MARIA INTORRE (Unknown), BPS System
DONNA KERR ( Unknown ), Olmstead Kensington
JAMES.KREATE (Unknown), Furniture and Arts and Crafts Store
DAVE RIFFLE (Unknown), BAVPA Media Communication Arts Teacher
DR. TARYN SPENCER, M.D. (Unknown), UB Medical Instructor, Internal Medicine/Preventive Medicine
ELIZABETH YOUNG (Unknown), President/Creative Director at Studio LL
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OTHER BAVPA ALUMNI VOCATIONS
AMY (CROOKS) SCANLON (1981), Senior Lead Professional Development Trainer, MAXIMUS, Inc.
ANDY MCCLAIN (1981), Owner of Treats Unleashed, Amherst, NY
PETE GALLIVAN (1983), WGRZ-TV Channel 2 Daybreak Co-Anchor
NANCY WILLAMS-NETTLES (1984), Crisis Counselor at the YWCA of Nashville and Middle TN
UMAR ADEYOLA (1988), President and CEO, H.E.A.R.T. Foundation, Buffalo
KRISTIN CRAGE (1988), West African Ivory Coast Drum accompanist, Alvin Ailey School of Dance
PASTOR GARNEY DAVIS, JR. (1988), Founder of Impacting Love Global Ministries and CEO of Impacting Love, Inc.
CLAUDINE EWING (1988), WGRZ-TV Channel 2 Reporter/Anchor
VINCENT MARASCHIELLO (1989), Systems Administrator, PureRED Integrated Marketing Atlanta, GA
STEVEN MARCHIONE (1989), Francesca’s Restaurant, Buffalo
REGINALD BURKE,SR. (1990), Founder of Bay Area Hoops, Tampa Bay, FL
CHAD JAKUBOWSKI (1991), Personal Trainer, Buffalo
STEFAN MYCHAJLIW (1991), Erie County Comptroller
JOSHUA P. SMITH, PHD (1996), Owner,Sato’s Japanese Restaurant, Buffalo
LUCILLE ALTIERI (1997), Presto Restaurant, Buffalo
AMANDA RAYBURG (1998), Massage Therapist at HEAT Center/Holistic Healing Center, Buffalo
KAMERON D. WOOD (2011), Director & Production Assistant
RICKY WHITCOMB (2004), Tour Manager, StarQuest International
CRAIG PRIDGEN (2002), Pastor and M&T Bank Analyst
RYAN APONTE (Unknown), Owner of Energy Art LLC, Buffalo
APRIL BASKIN (Unknown), Erie County Legislature Majority Leader
CHARLOTTE CARWELL (Unknown) Founder, P.O.C.E. Dance & Art Institute, Buffalo
LAKEISHA CARTER (Unknown), Dance Choreographer Dance Incorporated Center for the Fine & Performing Arts, Sickerfield, NJ
STEPHANIE CALHOUN (Unknown), Assistant Attorney General, NYS Office of the Attorney General
DANIELLE CATONE (Unknown), Danielle’s Dance and Fitness School
JESSIE FISHER (Unknown), Executive Director, Preservation Buffalo Niagara
TAMMY GAVIDIN (Unknown), Dance Instructor Tonawanda Dance Arts Faculty, Tonawanda
KRIS HOLLIE (Unknown), Personal Physical Fitness Trainer for Impact Training 716 and Ascend to Greatness
KIMMY JANE (Unknown), Kimmy Jane Tattoo & Artwork, Buffalo
AQUIL JONES (Unknown), Videographer, Krump Dancer and Founder of Legacy Visions Production
MELODY JONES (Unknown), Audio Technician
CHANON JUDSON, Associate Artistic Director, Urban Bush Women Dance Company
GINA MARTINEZ (Unknown), Dance Instructor at Broadway Dancesations, Lutz, FL
EBONY PACE, Against Destruction Theatrically Founder
DAVID RIFFEL (Unknown), Niagara Arts & Cultural Center’s documentarian and arts collaborator, Niagara Falls, NY
KAT WHITEFIELD (Unknown), Photography Assistant at Locust Street Art, Buffalo
ELIZABETH YOUNG (Unknown), President/Creative Director at Buffalo Studio Labs, Buffalo
Please visit BAVPA Memories, a photo website devoted to BAVPA’s past, present, and future. To follow site postings, make suggestions, or if you have questions, go to the site link (www.bavpamemories.com) and check out the BAVPA Memories PDF.
“To follow site postings, make suggestions, or if you have questions, go to the site link and check out the BAVPA Memories posting (below).”