Welcome to Spit Take Saturday, courtesy of Brown Paper Tickets’ Comedy Doer Julie Seabaugh and her professional comedy criticism site The Spit Take. Julie’s goal with the site is to “elevate the public perception of stand-up comedy to that of a legitimate art form, and to enable comedy criticism be taken as seriously as that of theater, film, music, food, even video games. No a**-kissing. No bias. No mercy. Just honest, unfiltered, long-form reviews written by professional, knowledgeable comedy critics.” 

Every week Julie will select an entry from the site to be included on our blog and hand-pick some related events happening that week that she feels all you comedy lovers out there will appreciate.

So, without further ado, let us introduce you to this week’s Spit Take Saturday!

Most casual comedy fans know Allan Sherman as the guy who wrote the summer camp parody song “Hello Muddah, Hello Faddah.” Or at least they’ve heard it somewhere, in a commercial or on the radio, even if they couldn’t identify Sherman by name. In Overweight Sensation, Mark Cohen argues for a much more robust legacy, one that puts Sherman at the forefront of opening up American society to ethnic humor.

This is not a standard, chronological biography. Cohen takes some liberties with the timeline, moving forward and back to further draw out his thesis. The result is a scattered and somewhat flawed narrative, but one that focuses on Sherman and his efforts to mix English and Yiddish in popular song parodies, a sort of Trojan Horse designed to bring Jewish culture into the mainstream.

Sherman was a wit early on, possibly a defense mechanism (as the common theory about comedians goes) to protect him from parents who were at best ambivalent about his existence. His father was absent, the family moved frequently, and Sherman never got much of a chance to settle into a normal life. That created an adult with an idealized picture of childhood and heightened sense of lust and gluttony. He was a neglectful father and husband. And until he lost his TV show, I’ve Got a Secret, he could even be lazy about his work. Then he changed gears and pushed hard, probably too hard for some of his TV co-workers. That’s when he finally broke through with My Son, the Folk Singer, recorded in 1962.

Many of Sherman’s contemporaries were Jewish, but they didn’t emphasize it in their work. Ethnicity was discouraged during World War II in favor of a homogenous “Americanism.” Sherman, Cohen asserts, turned that idea on its head by writing parodies that reinserted ethnicity into the songs. It’s an interesting thesis, begging a question not necessarily answered here. To what extent is an artist obligated to show his or her ethnicity in their work?

Cohen’s prose isn’t perfect. There are general quotes with no attribution to source material. On page 47, he discusses rising anti-Semitism and writes broadly, “college Jews avoided those ‘who were too stereotypically “Jewish” in manner or appearance.’” If the phrase hasn’t come from a specific source, why put it in quotes? And some stories are brushed aside with few details. After Sherman’s mother died, Allan’s half-brother and half-sister searched for their father, Dave. The half-sister talks about “one amusing story” from that time concerning finding money in a closet, but readers get no details about where the story took place or why it was amusing.

But Cohen gets cooking after the first 100 pages, when Sherman breaks through as a parodist. He’s able to put Sherman firmly in the context of his time, recreating the art, culture and politics of the age. His conclusions are sometimes debatable, but isn’t that the point of a book like this in the first place?

By Nick Zaino III

Follow @SpitTakeComedy on Twitter or Like us on Facebook.

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Check out some upcoming tributes to other comedy luminaries:

Thursday, June 13-Friday, July 5 I An Intimate Evening With Bea Arthur Starring DJ Schaefer – Studio City, California  DJ Schaefer will portray Bea Arthur in an intimate musical evening designed to delight and inform.  Bea Arthur considered by many to be one of the greatest comedic TV and Broadway Actresses will regale you with stories and songs of her life.  Stopping by will be various celebrities who played a part in her life.

Friday, June 14-Tuesday, July 23 I Randy Roberts – LIVE! – San Francisco, California  Incredible impersonations of “Bette Midler”, “Joan Rivers”, “Mae West”, “Cher” (an act the New York Times calls “…spot on”) and many more.

Saturday, August 24 I An Intimate Evening with Carol Channing and Justin Vivian Bond – Cherry Grove, New York  In one of the most ingenious pairings since Liza Minnelli and Alan Cumming, Daniel Nardicio presents the living legend, 3 time Tony Award winner Carol Channing and Tony nominated queer icon, Justin Vivian Bond in an intimate evening of stories and song. Bond will be moderating a Q and A with Ms Channing.

In the spirit of slow cooked eats I thought I would share my take on Mole, a delicious and versatile sauce that can be used in and on many dishes. Throw a few cups and some chicken broth in a crock pot, along with some cubed chicken or pork, and spend all day in your yard. When you come inside after a long day of yard work, dinner is minutes away with a quick salad, and some warm tortillas. This recipe can also easily be adapted for vegetarians by using vegetable stock instead of chicken and goes great with rice and vegetables. Enjoy!

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Mole Sauce

Ingredients:

1 qt. chicken stock

2 large yellow onions, rough chopped

5 cloves garlic, smashed

3 Passila chiles, dried & seeded

3 Cascabel chile, dried & seeded

3 Guajillo chile, dried & seeded

1 tablespoon dried oregano

4-5 tablespoons ground cumin

6 tablespoons vegetable oil

Mexican chocolate to taste (about 3 oz)

3 oz toasted almonds

3 oz toasted pepitas

2 oz dried banana chips (optional)

Preparation:

Heat a large pot to medium high and add two tablespoons of vegetable oil. Add onions and garlic and cook for about 3 minutes or until the onions are soft. Add the dried chilies and stir into to mixture and cook for 2 minutes to allow the chilies to bloom then cover with stock and bring to a simmer. Once it has started to simmer add oregano and cumin and allow to simmer for 30-45 minutes.

Heat your oven to 350 degrees and place pepitas and almonds on a cookie tray you will want to lightly toast them until they are fragrant. Once they are toasted let them cool, Put them in a food processor and pulse until they are the consistency of coarse corn meal and set aside.

In a blender add the chile, onion garlic and stock mixture carefully with a ladle. Purée the mixture until smooth then work it through a wire mesh strainer to remove any seed fragment that may have been missed as well as chile skin (it can be bitter if left in).

Pour the mixture back into the pot and add your ground nut/seeds and bring back up to a slow simmer.  Allow the sauce to simmer for about 15 minutes then reduce the heat to low.

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As most of you know, Mole sauce originated in Mexico and is most popular in the central and southern regions of the country. Here are some other food events happening around the country that focus on Mexican cuisine and spirits.

Every Sunday until Sunday, June 30 I Taco Truck Tour – Columbus, Ohio   Taco trucks serve up far more than just tacos, and nobody knows Columbus’s expansive taco truck scene better than Columbus Food Adventures. This van tour will explore the taco trucks of west side, taking you to some of our favorites and providing you with the best of Mexican food in Columbus. Each stop includes a tasting, and the tour is structured with an emphasis on individual truck specialties as well as the diversity of regional cuisine found at these trucks.

Monday, June 3 I Sprited Sirens’ “Mexican Maidens” Tequila & Mezcal Tasting – Miami, Florida  Join Jennifer Massolo, Founder of Spirited Sirens, a female-focused tasting series and blog, at Michael’s Genuine Food and Drink in Miami for “Mexican Maidens”, a Tequila and Mezcal tasting. The two hour program will include a seated, guided tasting which will include two Tequilas and two Mezcals along with two family-style dishes, to explore the food pairing possibilities of these fine spirits. At the end of the evening, a closing cocktail will be served, paired with a sweeter bite.

Tuesday, June 4 I A Mexican Market Supper – Asheville, North Carolina  West Asheville Tailgate Market presents A Mexican Market Supper with chefs Suzy Phillips (Gypsy Queen Cuisine) and Brian Canipelli (Cucina 24). A farm-to-table, family-style, Mexican meal that is sourced primarily from vendors of the tailgate market with vegetarian and meat options. The chefs will be preparing the meal on site. Dining will happen right on site at the tailgate market parking lot. The market supper is a unique way to support the local food movement, meet the farmers that grow your food, and commune with neighbors over a fresh, local, artisan-prepared meal. All proceeds will be used to support the growth of the tailgate market.

After each event we’ve asked three topical questions that we encourage you to use to start a conversation with your fellow blog readers.

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Friday, May 24- Ongoing  I  American History tour

“Adventurers, sea merchants, privateers and colonists all left indelible marks on the city’s history and architecture.”

Lower Manhattan was once a Dutch trading post and bustling seaport named New Amsterdam. Adventurers, sea merchants, privateers, and colonists— as well as pirates, smugglers and slave traders— sought their fortunes here, and all left indelible marks on the city’s history and architecture.

On this educational and fun historical tour, you’ll walk the old Dutch streets going back to the 1600′s. You’ll see where George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, Thomas Jefferson and other prominent historical figures lived. You’ll see Fraunces Tavern, the oldest building in Manhattan. And you’ll learn all about Andrew Carnegie, John D Rockefeller and other men who built America.

This is history. Firsthand. On the streets of New York.

Discuss.

Most fascinating fact about the history of New York City?

Do you want to live in New York?  Why?  Why not?

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Saturday, May 25, Tuesday, May 28  I  WILL WORK FOR – part of soloNOVA Arts Festival

“… a farcical and satirical journey into the new world of work.”

There’s only one thing worse than working. Not working. And there’s only one thing worse that not working. Trying to find work.

On a journey into the unknown, Dacyl Acevedo has to dodge through booby-trapped job interviews, face demons of her employment past and hold tight to her dream while surviving the economic crash. Will Work For is a farcical and satirical journey into the new world of work.

This show is part of the the soloNOVA Arts Festival. Presented as part of IRT Theater’s residency program.

Discuss.

Worst job interview of all time?

Funniest work story?

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Monday, May 27  I  Marmalade

“Imagine an improv wonderland so mysterious that it makes the place Alice went to look like the cubicle farm of an accounting office.”

You’ve heard the phrase, “Follow the Fear.” But do you know just how deeply weird the path of fear will take you?

Imagine an improv wonderland so mysterious that it makes the place Alice went to look like the cubicle farm of an accounting office.  Follow Jason Specland (Punchbowl, 1-800-LONDON) and Kathryn Dunn (Yes, Yes, Yes… And, 1-800-LONDON) down the two-prov rabbit hole and find out.

Are they fearless, foolish, or both?  Find out for yourself.

Discuss.

What’s the weirdest improv show you’ve ever seen?

What is weird, anyway?

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Thursday, May 30- Friday, May 31  I  Michelle Boulé: WONDER

“Boulé traverses her roles as performer, witness, object, instigator, dancer, maker and woman…”

WONDER is a new solo show created and performed by New York City dancer Michelle Boulé. It is an invitation to notice how we see, through witnessing self and other, in a live act of creation, as an aesthetic consciousness, and as a ritual.

Boulé traverses her roles as performer, witness, object, instigator, dancer, maker and woman— surrendering to a fragmented body and history while seeking to find what remains authentic and necessary amongst the exposure of these layers.

The dance happens in the round, with the audience seated facing one another. This open up a space to question what we actually allow ourselves to see, what we aim to show or reveal, and how this subsequently shapes and creates our experience of the world.

Michelle Boulé is a performer, choreographer, and teacher based in New York City.

Discuss.

Are there things you do or don’t allow yourself to see?

How does this shape your experience of the world?

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ROAD TRIP SHOW Thursday, May 30  I  Whisperings Solo Piano Concert at Rockland Conservatory – part of the Keys for Kids Tour

“Whispering Solo Piano Concert is a great way to listen to some amazing music and help families in need.”

Three award winning pianists, Gary Girouard, Louis Landon, and Doug Hammer, have joined forces for a very good cause. Their goal is to raise $5,000 for Paul Newman’s Hole in the Wall Gang, a special place in Ashford, Connecticut, that provides empowering experiences for children and families coping with serious illnesses.

With concerts in New York, Boston and Cape Cod, the pianists are selling 88 piano keys at $100 each. Buyers of the “Keys for Kids $100 Special” will receive two VIP concert tickets in the city of their choice, 3 signed CDs, and a “thank you” piano key.

Whispering Solo Piano Concert is a great way to listen to some amazing music and help families in need.

Discuss.

Are you familiar with Hole in the Wall Gang?

Where are they getting those piano keys?

In case you couldn’t tell from what she’s holding in her hand, in addition to being the voice of Brown Paper Tickets on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, YouTube and Foursquare, as well as holding the keys to Brown Paper Tickets’ social media and digital marketing strategy, Rachel’s heart is also on display through her music. Take a listen to her latest single, “Center Stage,” here.

Rachel is a self-taught musician, with a natural ear for music, and a passionate drive for expression that resonates and connects her to her fans. Wong was selected from more than 3,000 artists across the US as a Top-12 finalist in Ford’s “Gimme the Gig II” contest in Los Angeles in August 2012. Influenced by Michael Jackson, John Mayer and Lauryn Hill, Wong’s acoustic, soulful pop sound has been compared to “Sara Bareilles, but on the guitar.”

Tracks from Rachel’s first album and single, Curtain Fall, can now be heard on radio stations in Canada and the Phillipines. Letters to You, her second album to be released on iTunes and Spotify May 28, is a 10-track musical journey from the pop anthem production of “Center Stage” to the island-flavored “Beach Bum Living.” Album tracks feature her soothing, powerful vocals and catchy songs, accentuated by the sincere warmth of her lyrics. A music video to for “Center Stage” will be released on You Tube shortly after the “Letters to You” album release show in Portland on June 29, and you are invited to attend!

Rachel wants to let you know that one of her good friends, Tess Henley, will be having her album release party just three days later, at Seattle’s Columbia City Theater. Pick up tickets for that show right over here.

As the world’s first home for independent musicians like Rachel and Tess, Brown Paper Tickets hosts album release parties and performances by some of the world’s best artists before they are “discovered” by the rest of the world, and sometimes after they are discovered, simply because they love the warmth, the 5% donations of profits from every ticket sold, and the down-to-earth, local vibe of Brown Paper Tickets. Why not take a look at the events in your city and see which local live events appeal to you?

We sat down with Rachel to ask her a couple of questions so that you could get to know her a little bit better. Enjoy!

What’s your full name?
RW: Rachel Wong

Why did you decide to use your real name as your “artist name?”
RW: I thought about different stage names but decided to just keep it simple and stay true to myself. I’m also not creative enough to think of something like Lady Gaga. But if I had to use a stage name it would probably incorporate my nick name: Rae Rae.

Where were you born, Rachel?
RW: I grew up in Vancouver, Washington but was born in Portland, Oregon.

Why do you love Seattle?
RW: Oh goodness there are too many things. It’s beautiful being in the Northwest surrounded by water, greenery and mountains. Our waterfronts are on a whole ‘nother level. I also love that Seattle has so many diverse neighborhoods and communities. Each area has a unique and distinct history. Plus the food options are tremendous. Love it!

Why BPT?
RW: Why not! As an employee, I’ve only been given tremendous opportunities to learn and grow in my field. On top of that, it’s incredible to work for a company that genuinely cares about you. That’s hard to find in the marketing world. That way of business extends to how we deal with clients and ticket buyers. As an independent artist, I love that I can host events professionally without being nickle-and-dimed, or doing that to my fans. That plus all the free resources for promotion of events makes BPT a no-brainer.

Quick! Someone is coming to Seattle this weekend. Where should they go? What should they do?
RW: Man that’s a tough one. There’s way too many things to choose from! I’d definitely go canoeing on Lake Washington, walk (and eat) through Pike Place, BBQ and bonfire at Alki Beach, visit Bruce Lee’s grave, take touristy pictures at Gas Works Park, and definitely eat a Paseos sandwich and a Dick’s burger and shake. They’d need to plan for a food coma nap after though.

Best music event you’ve ever been to?
RW: I’d have to say John Mayer at the Gorge for his “Battle Studies” tour. As a lyricist and musician John Mayer has been one of the biggest musical influences for me. Watching him live was an incredible experience. He played some of his oldest material and was just jamming with his band for like 10 minutes on each song. You could literally feel each note. That kind of love and passion for music is why I write and sing.

What’s the most embarrassing thing that has ever happened to you during a performance?
RW: One time, about 15 minutes before my show at a new venue, I broke one of my guitar strings. Luckily, the booking guy ran down a couple blocks to buy me some new strings and literally 3 minutes before I started, I had to unscrew and change it out! Luckily I still started on time and the show went well.

Who are your biggest inspirations as a singer?
RW: John Mayer, for the reasons stated above. Vocally, I try to pull from my heart and my soul and I’ve had a lot of influence from Lauren Hill. Then of course there’s Michael Jackson, the King of Pop.

What are your guilty pleasures?
RW: I love watching Jersey Shore. There’s something incredibly daring about people who can just have fun without any reservations. I enjoy the personalities, mostly the ridiculousness of it. I’m also a pretty big Pretty Little Liars fangirl.

Live performance event you’re looking forward to the most:
RW: One of my good friends, Tess Henley, is celebrating her CD release next week! Even though she’s my friend I know she’s one of the best songwriters around. She’s worked really hard on this new record and am so excited to hear the new material.

Celebrity crush?
RW: I’m currently obsessed with Ryan Gosling (though my heart sort of belongs to Channing Tatum). Ryan is such a man’s man! Handsome, confident, he can call me any time.

Favorite Seattle food?
RW: Toulouse Petite’s Egg’s Benedict and breakfast potatoes are a delicious combo you have to experience. Also they have a BREAKFAST happy hour. I’m all for the delicious deals. Marination Mobile’s Kalua Pork Sliders are a close second though.

Anything else we need to know?
RW: I can’t snap my fingers or whistle… but I can put my heart and soul into my music. I’m so proud of this new record and I really hope you guys find something about it to connect to.

After each event we’ve asked three topical questions that we encourage you to use to start a conversation with your fellow blog readers.

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Thursday, May 23  I  Book Binding

“Before you know it, you’ll have your very own book!”

Welcome to DabbleLab— where you’ll find all kinds of interesting and random classes and workshops.

In this unique and instructive bookbinding class,Travis, the artist/ instructor, will provide instruction on the beginner level book binding technique known as “Stab Binding.” Students will create a decorative front and back cover using collage materials, decorative handmade paper, buttons, feathers, etc. Then fuse these two covers and a series of blank pages using the stab binding technique and before you know it, you’ll have your very own book!

Now you just have to decide what to write (or draw) in it.

Discuss.

Have you ever made a book before?

Do you want to write a book?

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Thursday, May 23 and Friday, May 24  I  Meg Murch: Coloring Outside the Lines

“Each work is intended to be a visually coherent statement about an individual.”

Pottery Northwest is pleased to present Coloring Outside the Lines, a solo exhibition of work by Meg Murch. The show runs until May 24, in the Gallery of Pottery Northwest.

For this show, Meg applied her years of painting, sculpting and portraiture into her work. Meg explores the human figure and face, both abstractly and realistically. Each work is intended to be a visually coherent statement about an individual. She addresses their likeness, emotional expression and her respect for each individual.

Discuss.

How does sculpture uniquely capture someone’s essence?

Do you enjoy coloring outside the lines?

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Thursday, May 23 to Sunday, May 26  I  Othello

“With poetry rivalling King Lear, Shakespeare constructs a highly charged tale of prejudice, revenge, and the destruction of innocence.”

Welcome to William Shakespeare’s tragedy of jealousy and revenge.

Othello, a celebrated general and an outsider, defies social convention and marries Desdemona, a Venetian aristocrat. Enter Othello’s most trusted lieutenant, the “honest” Iago, who nurses a vengeful hate for his commander. As Iago draws Othello and the audience into a spider web of half-truths, scandal is fuelled as families and friendships are destroyed.

With poetry rivalling King Lear, Shakespeare constructs a highly charged tale of prejudice, revenge, and the destruction of innocence.

Starring Michael Blum as Othello, Ann-Mari Bryant as Desdemona, Rik Deskin as Iago, Eleanor Moseley as Emilia, Eric Newman as Roderigo, Scott Maddock as Brabantio, Corey Lynn Atencio as Bianca, Jeff Allen Pierce, Mary Murfin Bailey, Brandon Marino and Alexa Oo!

Discuss.

What’s your favorite Shakespeare play?

Have you ever felt like Othello?

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 Wednesday, May 29  I  DUO Comedy Showcase 2013

“It’s Seattle’s only improv showcase where pairs of improv comedians take the stage to entertain you.”

Great things come in twos! The Market Theater features some of the best comedy and improv duos in the Seattle area every Wednesday with Seattle Improv Showcase Duo.

It’s Seattle’s only improv showcase where pairs of improv comedians take the stage to entertain you. You’ll find all styles of comedy in this show— from old time vaudevillian to new age stylistic. It’s always a fun and social time. And, of course, every Duo night is different, from themed nights to promotional events.

The performers range from professionals to beginners. So if you’re part of a two person act, and you have performance experience, you can sign your duo act up and take it to the stage.

Discuss.

Is two always better than one?

Best comedy duo of all time?

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Wednesday, May 29  I  The Opportunity: Next Steps in Reducing Nuclear Arms with Ambassador Steven Pife

“How real are North Korea’s nuclear threats?”

What is the future of U.S- Russia nuclear arms negotiations? What are the key nuclear arms control challenges facing President Obama? What are some practical policy recommendations to reducing nuclear arms and missile defense? How real are North Korea’s nuclear threats?

Come join in an evening of discussion with Ambassador Steven Pifer. He’ll talk about his new book, The Opportunity: Next Steps in Reducing Nuclear Arms, and provide key recommendations to reducing nuclear arms.

Steven Pifer, a career foreign service officer, arrived in Kyiv on January 8, 1998, as the third United States Ambassador to Ukraine. Prior to his appointment there, Mr. Pifer served from August, 1996 to August, 1997 as Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Russian, Ukrainian and Eurasian Affairs at the National Security Council.

Discuss.

Does the thought of nuclear war concern you?

Is the U.S. doing a good job in nuclear arms negotiations?

After each event we’ve asked three topical questions that we encourage you to use to start a conversation with your fellow blog readers.

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Fridays and Sundays I North End (Little Italy) …the old AND the new!

“And how could Boston Foodie Tours end their tour without offering their guests some dolce for the road? Their Italian grandmothers wouldn’t hear of it!”

Award-winning pizza, quality chocolates, fresh oysters, Food Network-featured cupcakes, homemade pasta, freshly-baked Italian bread and Italian pastry. This tour has it all!

Boston Foodie Tours mix the old and the new, with lots of food samples along the way. You’ll experience the best of the current North End, which includes a mix of Italian and non-Italian food.

First stop— Boston’s best pizza! But only the ORIGINAL will do. Then how ’bout a little chocolate? This shop just opened and already it’s stocked with some of the best chocolates you’ll find anywhere. Just down the street, guests will visit a bakery whose cupcakes appeared in the first issue of Food Network Magazine. Turn the corner and find a pasta shoppe that produces one of the top four pastas in the country.

You won’t need a map to find the next stop… just follow the lines!  This bakery was featured on Duff Goldman’s Sugar High show and is a favorite of both locals and tourists alike. Before the tour stops for its pasta course at one of the North End’s finest restaurants, guests will visit another neighborhood gem that was recently featured in Martha Stewart’s magazine. They devoted an entire page to this sandwich shop. And how could Boston Foodie Tours end their tour without offering their guests some dolce for the road? Their Italian grandmothers wouldn’t hear of it!

Discuss.

Best Italian food in Boston?

Best pizza in Boston?

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Thursday, May 23  I  Louder Than A Bomb Massachusetts – Finals Showcase

“This final performance showcase features unforgettable youth voices from across the state…”

Poetry is big. Poetry is loud. Poetry matters.

Louder Than A Bomb is a youth poetry slam festival that brings together a diverse group of teens through a friendly competition that emphasizes self-expression and community via performance poetry.

This final performance showcase features unforgettable youth voices from across the state as well as special guest performers and an awards ceremony.

Louder Than A Bomb is an event like no other. If you’re a teen, an activist, a poetry lover, a hip-hop head, an educator, or anyone with a story to share, you won’t want to miss it!

Discuss.

Does poetry have power?

How do you express your voice?

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Friday, May 24  I  Robert Fripp & The Orchestra of Crafty Guitarists

“Come share in the spectacle that is the Orchestra of Crafty Guitarists!”

What is The Orchestra Of Crafty Guitarists?

Robert Fripp might tell you that one possible answer is a lot of people making a lot of noise with guitars. Sometimes they even perform in public— in Spain, Italy, Argentina, and in the USA. Another possible answer is a specialized study in the self-organizing properties of complex wholes.

The global challenges we face are beyond the capacity of individuals to meet. Solutions are more likely to be found in groups and networks than in the efforts of individuals acting alone. The solitary, individual genius is, by definition, solitary and individual. The question, then, is how may we cultivate and develop group genius?

Come share in the spectacle that is the Orchestra of Crafty Guitarists!

Discuss.

Noise or genius?

Will the problems of the world be solved by individuals or groups?

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Sunday, May 26  I  Unwined Yoga

“Relax your body and ease your mind to empower our community.”

When we feel good we are kinder, softer, more generous. It’s a fact.

Unwined Yoga provides relaxing yoga practices while extending individuals’ education about wine and philanthropy. This builds the capacity for communities to address social justice for all.

Relax your body and ease your mind to empower our community. Come join Unwined Yoga this Sunday!

Discuss.

What are the benefits of combining a yoga practice with wine?

Drink wine before or after?

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Tuesday, May 28  I  Introduction to Burlesque (May 2013, Tuesdays)

“Burlesque is a terrific form of expression for any woman.”

You know you wanna learn some burlesque moves. It’s fun. Sexy. And empowering.

This series of classes was designed and created with the novice dancer in mind, but experienced dancers looking to learn classic burlesque moves and techniques will also greatly benefit.

In this final class of lessons and demonstrations, students will learn the fundamentals of burlesque dance and discuss burlesque-related topics like music selection, the art of costuming, and performing for an audience.

Burlesque is a terrific form of expression for any woman. It builds confidence and comfort with your body. And it’s great exercise too!

Discuss.

What burlesque move do you want to learn?

What do you want to get out of these classes?

That said, the Pacific Northwest isn’t the only place where folks want to get outside and enjoy some music. A quick perusal of our site reveals a number of festivals happening all over the country this weekend and I thought I’d give you a brief list of some of the ones that caught my eye in Washington, California and Virginia.

What are you waiting for? Dig out the tent, grab the cooler and get out there and enjoy some live music in the great outdoors.

Port Angeles, Washington

Friday, May 24 to Monday, May 27 I 20th Annual Juan de Fuca Festival of the Arts   Four days of music, dance, theater, and comedy fill the days and nights at the 20th annual Juan de Fuca Festival in Port Angeles over Memorial Day Weekend. If you buy your four day pass early you’ll save $10/person over the gate price! Pick them up right over here. Headlining this year are Sierra Leone’s Refugee All Stars, The Slide Brothers, Delhi 2 Dublin, Tony Furtado Band, Houston Jones, Groove For Thought, LoCura, Shook Twins, Kaumakaiwa Kanaka’ole and more! The festival is free for kids 12 and under plus there will be a street fair filled with an eclectic collection of artisans and a food court with tasty treats from cuisines of the world will keep you browsing and munching on a daily basis. When the Main Stage closes, the fun continues with performances/dances around town with festival artists and these after hours shows are INCLUDED in your wristband price. Also this year there will be an OPEN MIC area outside. Come on down with you guitar or trumpet and help create that festival vibe.

Leggett, California

Friday, May 24 to Sunday, May 26 I Hickey Fest Music Festival   Hickey Fest (named for Standish Hickey State Park) is a 3 day independent music festival featuring 30 bands located in Leggett, California, just 3 hours north of the Bay Area. Look forward to a weekend of fun in the sun sharing the company of the West Coast’s best and brightest musicians featuring Sea of Bees, Warm Soda, Quinn DeVeaux, Sun Hop Fat, The Blank Tapes and more!! Admission price includes shared camping at Standish Hickey State Park where the South Fork of the Eel River shimmers against the backdrop of the majestic redwoods. Music will be happening just across the way at The Peg House featuring a shaded out-door stage and patio area, a delicious sandwich shack with lots of tasty micro-brews on tap, and general store for all your last minute camping and grocery needs. Pack your swimsuit, strap on your guitar and get ready for HICKEY FEST!

Martinsville, Virginia

Friday, May 24 to Sunday, May 26 I Rooster Walk 5   The fifth annual Rooster Walk Music and Arts Festival happens this weekend at the Blue Mountain Festival Grounds near Martinsville, Virginia. Rooster Walk features a multitude of musical genres as well as arts, crafts and food vendors, plus children’s activities. Bands include: Leftover Salmon, Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk, Yarn(x2), Larry Keel, Jenny Keel & Sammy Shelor, KUNG FU, Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds and more. Rooster Walk has been named one of the top 100 outdoor events in the Southeast by Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine. It has also been highlighted in Southern Living Magazine as a top-ticket for the month of May. Last year, Rooster Walk drew more than 3,000 people and featured 32 bands with genres spanning rock, bluegrass, newgrass, Americana, jambands, jazz, country, reggae/ska, funk and soul.

After each event we’ve asked three topical questions that we encourage you to use to start a conversation with your fellow blog readers.

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Wednesday, May 22 I European (and one Asian!) Craft Brewers Trolley Tour

“They will tempt and tease you with their nuances and flavors.”

While you’re on the tour you’ll hit up the best craft beer bars in Lincoln Square, Andersonville and Uptown.

At each pub you’ll enjoy specialty craft beers and meet some of the brewmasters and founders. While on the trolley, Liz Garibay of Tales, Taverns & Towns, will provide tibdits of tavern and Chicago brewing history. On this delicious tour you’ll experience brews both foreign and domestic. They will tempt and tease you with their nuances and flavors. A good time will be had by all.

Discuss.

Best beer you’ve ever tasted?

Do you make your own beer? What’s your secret ingredient?

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Thursday, May 23 to Saturday, May 25  I  AstonRep Theatre Company presents the Chicago Premiere of NEXT FALL

“When a serious accident changes everything, Adam must turn to Luke’s family and friends for support and answers.”

The AstonRep Theater Company presents Next Fall, a show that follows the ups and downs of a gay couple in an unlikely relationship.

Luke is devoutly religious and Adam is an atheist. Despite their differences, they manage to make it work during their five years together. When a serious accident changes everything, Adam must turn to Luke’s family and friends for support and answers.

Next Fall paints a touching yet sharply humorous portrait of modern romance— asking the hard questions about commitment, love and faith.

2010 Tony Award – “Best Play & Best Director”
Drama Desk Award – “Outstanding Play”
Outer Critics Circle Award – “Outstanding New Broadway Play”

Discuss.

Can two people with vastly different faiths have a healthy relationship?

Where do you go for support in times of trouble?

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Thursday, May 23 to Saturday, May 25  I  “Touch” & “Mirrors”

“Mirrors tells the story of four alienated characters whose longing for connection in a world that privileges individualism is brought into focus as they each encounter mirror images of themselves.”

Chicago Danztheatre Ensemble is pleased to present two original performances inspired by the poetry and mysticism of Rumi at Defibrillator Performance Art Gallery.

This performance takes a lyrical look at the chance encounters that alter the course of our lives.

Mirrors was first produced by writer, director and choreographer Ellyzabeth Adler, working in collaboration with Chicago Danztheatre Ensemble Artist Director Jack Ryan, in the fall of 2011. Mirrors tells the story of four alienated characters whose longing for connection in a world that privileges individualism is brought into focus as they each encounter mirror images of themselves.

After closing that show to favorable reviews, Adler again turned to the poetry of Rumi to develop “Touch.” This performance tells the story of a young woman and an elderly man whose chance meeting at a cemetery brings their lives closer than they ever could have imagined.

Discuss.

Have you ever been inspired by a Rumi poem?

What chance encounters have affected your life?

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Thursday, May 23 to Sunday, May 26 I The Robbers

“They fight for inheritance and power to remake the world in their own image.”

Murder and thievery fan the flames of conflict between two ambitious siblings as they fight for inheritance and power to remake the world in their own image. Strangeloop’s all-female cast plays the roles of sons, fathers, kings and knaves in this modern retelling of the revolutionary German classic. Strangeloop brings its unique approach to this once scandal-inducing classic in a contemporary and intimate staging.

The cast features Moira Begale, Carrie Campana, Margo Chervony, Letitia Guillaud, Jaclyn Jensen, Stefanie Johnsen, Morgan Manasa, Allison McCorkle, Pat Parks and Holly Robison.

Written by Friedrich Schiller. Directed by Brad Gunter.

Discuss.

Would you fight your siblings for inheritance and power?

What are the benefits of an all-female cast?

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Saturday, May 25  I  Saturday Comedy Showcase w/ Rainbow Deli

“The eight person cast has performed in such stalwart Chicago improv groups as Revolver, Close Quarters, Felt, Big Yellow Bus, Mrs. Dad, and Rick.”

Have you ever turned a suggestion into a poem? And a poem into thirty minutes of improv? It can be done.

Each week, Rainbow Deli will be joined by a rotating line-up of teams comprised of some of the funniest people in Chicago at Chemically Imbalanced Theater.

Rainbow Deli will take a suggestion from the audience and turn it into poetry. Then they’ll take the poetry and turn it into thirty blistering minutes of improv. The eight person cast has performed in such stalwart Chicago improv groups as Revolver, Close Quarters, Felt, Big Yellow Bus, Mrs. Dad, and Rick.

Discuss.

Got any good improv suggestions?

When was the last time you write a poem?  And turned it into the next thirty minutes of your life?

Friday, May 24 to Sunday, June 02 2013 Bath Fringe Spiegeltent Presents   Bath Recreation Ground, Bath   The Bath Fringe Festival takes place over 17 days in May/June and has a programme bursting with theatre, dance, music, visual arts, childrens festival, street theatre and circus events. The beautiful Speigeltent will be back again this year on Bath Recreation Ground, with the pick of folk/roots music, cabaret and comedy.

Friday, May 24 2013 I Vasquez / Alright the Captain / Billy Ray Osiris / Crusades  Henry’s Cellar Bar, Edinburgh   Edinburgh’s foremost instrumental dance/shred machine Vasquez headline an evening of choice entertainment with Derby’s constantly touring math-rock trio Alright the Captain, improv-noise collective Billy Ray Osiris and melodic post-hardcore combo Crusades joining the fray. Expect improvised collaborations, spontaneous outbursts and loud noises.

Saturday, May 25 2013 I Live Roller Derby: Revenge of the Fallen Grangemouth Sports Complex, Grangemouth   Last June, Fierce Valley Roller Girls embraced all things Grease-related in their first intra-league bout, “Summer Shovin.” This year’s intra-league will have a Transformers theme: “Revenge of the Fallen” – the name is pretty apt, don’t you think? Skaters from FVRG will split into the AutoBlocks and DeceptiQuads for one day only to battle it out on track. But who will transform their efforts into victory? Buy your tickets early to avoid disappointment.

Saturday, May 25 2013 I White Mischief: WAR OF THE WORLDS Ball Scala, London   With four themed rooms of Sci-Fi, Science and B-Movie fun featuring the finest music, cabaret, aerial, circus, comedy and interactive experiences this is sure to be an amazing event and there will also be DJs and dancing late into the night! Get an idea of the type of thing you can look forward to by checking out this cracking clip of White Mischief’s Halloween event Phantasmagoria.

Saturday, May 25 2013 I London Brawling Tiger Bay Bootcamp Penarth Leisure Centre, Penarth   Four of London Brawling’s top skaters (Stefanie Mainey, Olivia Coupe, Hell Vetica Black and Grievous Bodily Charm) will be hosting a 4 hour bootcamp at Tiger Bay Brawler’s training venue. To get the most out of the London Brawling bootcamp you need to be confident on your skates, be able to stop and fall safely, and be able to hit and be hit. You need to have passed your WFTDA minimum skills. In the interests of the safety of all participants, coaches may remove someone who they consider not to have reached an appropriate standard, and anyone who poses a risk of injury to themselves or other members of the group. This event is now sold out please check the London Rollergirls website for future events.

Sunday, May 26 2013 I The Kitchen Quartet at Sunday Cabaret The Round Table, London   May’s very special guests are quirky all-female vocal trio The Kitchen Quartet (who apparently cannot count…), featuring singer/pianist Maya Levy, a Sunday Cabaret favourite who was a big hit at the first ever show back in 2011, returning for a sell-out show in 2012. This time, Levy brings along her Kitchen Quartet friends to the Sunday Cabaret party.  

Know of any other events happening this week? Post them in the comments section.

New York, New York

TONIGHT! Tuesday, May 21 | Hotsy Totsy Burlesque STAR TREK tribute  Boldly go into the final frontier tonight with Hotsy Totsy Burlesque! Here’s what they got to say about their tribute to the original 1960s series:

“Following on the footsteps of Hotsy Totsy Burlesque’s successful Mad Men, Game of Thrones, Big Lebowski and Star Wars 1978 Holiday Special tribute, Cherry Pitz and Joe the Shark proudly present a burlesque tribute to Star Trek – The Original Series! We are New York’s only episodic, monthly burlesque show featuring a different script each month and a rotating cast.  Hotsy Totsy is a high camp soap opera featuring some of the best burlesque talent New York has to offer. Long before nerdy burlesque shows became trendy there was Hotsy Totsy Burlesque!”

Lord knows Captain Kirk was never one to shy away from a pretty face. Here are some of his more memorable moments with some of the universe’s sexiest ladies:

Tonight’s show will feature performances by Apathy Angel, Cherry Pitz, Delirium Tremens, Hazel Honeysuckle, Melody Jane, Ruby Solitaire, Handsome Brad, with go-go dancing by Webster Hall’s Anna Kickarse and kittening by Izébel Vivant!

Saturday, May 25 | 8 Bit Burlesque TVs have come along way since the days of rabbit ears and vacuum tubes. Today, you can do more with your TV than just watch. You can play! Here’s what the gals from Manhattan’s 8 Bit Burlesque have to say about their upcoming show:

“Grab your joy sticks and your game genie and head on down to the Parkside Lounge, Saturday, May 25th for a naughty nostalgic night  of nerdy burlesque! That’s right, it’s time for our annual old school video game show!”

Hosted by Anja Keister and featuring preforms by Dangrr Doll, BB Heart, Foxy Vermouth, Teddy Turnaround, Matt Knife and Red Devotchkin, Kita St. Cyr and Lewd Alfred Douglas as DJ.

Charleston, West Virginia

Sunday, June 16 | Dr. Sketchys Anti-Art School Charleston: Tribute to Firefly  I miss Firefly but I’m happy to see that it is still alive and well in the hearts of its many devoted fans, including the folks at Dr. Sketchys Anti-Art School in Charleston, West Virginia:

“Put the life back into life drawing with Dr. Sketchy’s Anti-Art School. Join us for a look back at Firefly on April 21st in Uncork and Create… All art mediums are accepted as long as they don’t disturb anyone else. Artists of any skill level from the novice to the pro are invited to come create in this relaxed environment.”

Models for the evening will be Luna L’Enfant, Ruby Rouge, and Cat Schrodinger

Seattle, Washington

Friday, June 21 | You Can’t Do This on Television! TV is great but there are some things that they just can’t broadcast. Fortunately though, the stage is much less restricting. Theater Off Jackson had this to say about their upcoming night of TV-themed burlesque:

“Join us for a look at censored scenes from some our favorite TV shows including Breaking Bad, Downton Abby, Glee, Futurama and many more!  Find out what happens when our favorite characters get to do things that you can’t do on television!   You won’t want to change the channel, this is definitely MUST SEE TV!”

Featuring preferences by Bettie Fever, Carmen Dioxide, Crystal Tassels, Iva Handfull, Lady Drew Blood, Lexi Luthor, Lucinda Pack, Miss Elaine Yes, Sabina Soubrette, Seymoure Carnage, Stella D’Letto, The Norse Goddess and Tootsie Spangles.

Friday, July 26 through Sunday, July 28 | Behind The Blue Door Returns to Celebrate 50 Years of Dr. Who  A ” sexy, silly take on the Whoniverse.” Join Midnight Menagerie Productions for an evening of burlesque, dance and more as they shimmy, shake, tease, and twirl their way across time and space with the help of a tarted-up TARDIS. With eleven Doctors, multiple companions, several spin-off shows, and an entire universe to explore anything can happen!

Here are some of the Doctor’s steamier moments: