haines his way

12/13/2002:
"THE PALM SPRINGS STORY"

Well, dear readers, I am back from the city known as Palm Springs and I had an absolutely splendid time. When I left Los Angeles it was eighty degrees. The temperature in Palm Springs was about forty-five and the signing took place outside, so I was freezing the whole three hours. That, however, did not detract from the fun. I was seated next to another author/actor, whose name I have now forgotten, but you’d recognize him immediately from his hundreds of performances as evil Nazis. He wrote a book about his experiences escaping from Germany and, as a Jew, fighting with the Dutch resistance, and then coming to Hollywood where he began acting. A very nice chap indeed. I sold quite a few books, which was swell. I also had two people come up who’d gone to high school with me, and also a girl I’d worked with thirty years ago came up to me as well. Isn’t that amazing? Isn’t that just too too? I mean, I was in Palm Springs for heaven’s sake. Well, as the Sherman Brothers wrote, It’s a Small World after all.
Also, there was a funny man who came running up to me and when he got to the table he yelled, “When is The First Nudie Musical DVD coming out?” I made him a happy man and he said he was going to order it when he got home. The drive there was a bit of a pain and took two hours and fifteen minutes. The drive home was much better and only took one hour and forty minutes, thanks to the lovely directions provided by dear reader Jay(we weren’t able to go via his route because we were leaving from the mid-Wilshire district, but my publicist stayed on and I was able to use his directions on the way back). Next signing coming up January 18th and it’s going to be a good one – at Barnes and Noble at the Grove. I’ll have more details about that in a week or so.
Well, today is my final day at work and then I shall be free, free I tell you, free to be you and me, free to write all the livelong day, free to finish all my various and sundried projects. Also, Luckie will be joining me full time as of Saturday.
Perhaps we should all click on the Unseemly Button below because I have other things to talk about and I have to save something for the next section lest I be bitch-slapped by Mr. Mark Bakalor.

Dear reader Michael Shayne has been enjoying the new Brent Barrett CD, and I do recommend it because the songs are grand and Brent is, too. It’s nice to have it out finally. Because Brent was forbidden to include my name in his thank yous and because I was forbidden to include any thank yous at all, let me take this opportunity to thank our wonderful musicians, Chris Denny, Lanny Meyers, the great Lauren Bacall, the great Tami Tappan, Liza Lerner, Vinnie “they wouldn’t let you include thank yous?” Cirilli, and, of course, the lovely, lovable and luscious Brent. I’ll tell you a funny story about my favorite track on the CD – Tell Me. I’d asked Brent to look at that song because I found it beautiful and haunting. Because it was very short, I suggested pairing it with something else. Brent and Chris looked at it, but weren’t keen on doing it (they liked the melody, but Brent found the lyric very show-specific and strange). So, we moved on. I brought it up occasionally, as we still needed a song or two, but it was always the same – too strange. At the one of the vocal sessions, I suggested we just go sing through it with Chris, just for fun. Brent and I talked about the lyric a bit, and I suggested several ways it could be played that wouldn’t make it strange. He sang through it once and it was really beautiful. So, I said, “Let’s record it right now.” I had Chris play through it again, we did a quick arrangement of it, and recorded it in one or two “live” takes. When I spoke to Brent after I’d mixed the album, the song had become both our favorites. This has happened on a couple of Terry Trotter albums, too – where he really hasn’t wanted to do something, and at the end of a session I’ll just mosey in with the music and say, “Oh, let’s just do this – no practice, just off-the-cuff, and see what happens”, and then we’ll record it and it will always become our favorite track. In any case, you should be able to find Brent’s album at Footlight in New York, amazon.com on the net and most record stores. As we said yesterday, Tell Me, which was originally going to be the bonus track, is on all copies of the album.
Well, dear readers, I must take the day, I must do the things I do, I must have my final day at work and then I must come home, clear my head, and tomorrow begin full-time writing again. Starting Monday, Christmas season officially begins here at haineshisway.com and I can tell you we are going to celebrate until the cows come home. We will have stories of Christmases past and present, we will be making a list and checking it twice and those who’ve been naughty (you know who you are) will be bitch-slapped from here to eternity, and those who’ve been nice will have a sparklingly good and festive time. Today’s topic of discussion: It’s Friday, so what is in your CD player and your DVD/video player. I’ll start – CD: a three CD Michel Legrand anthology from France which is a must for any Legrand fan. I found it on eBay, but it’s also available through amazon.com.france and I must tell you, their price is reasonable and their shipping amazingly fast. DVD player: the “extras” disc of Contempt (lots of interesting things) and in my PAL player, The Mouse that Roared. Your turn. And talk about anything else your collective hearts may desire. We ended up having quite a lovely number of posts yesterday, and if you missed them check them out because they were most excellent.

Replies: 76 Unseemly Comments

Good Morning. Unlike Bruce - I went from 25 degree weather in Chicago to close to 80 back here in Florida - a VERY welcome change of climate!
In my car CD player - Hairspray
In my DVD player - Serpico
More later..
Posted by Craig @ 12/13/2002 07:36 AM PST

In my CD player: all the Sondheim shows discussed in Mark Horowitz's new book Sondheim on Music.
In my DVD player: my all-time favorite film, "The Grand Illusion," a birthday gift from my very thoughtful daughter.
Posted by Pam @ 12/13/2002 08:15 AM PST

In CD Player - Still "The Cinnamon Bear" - 10 chapters to go for this season. For those of you who missed my last post about this, "The Cinnamon Bear" is a Christmas serial that was broadcast on radio each holiday season from the mid 30s to the late 40s for the 26 weekdays ending on Christmas Eve. Some of the best character actors on radio at the time took part (Gale Gordon, Joseph Kearns, Hanley Stafford, Verna Felton et. al.) and it is a delight. It's available on CD and Cassette and is perfect for adults and kids. Listening to a chapter a day ---usually before bedtime--- has been a Christmas ritual for the last several years and is a nice way to end a busy day.
In the DVD - The new 4 volume boxed set of Judy Garland television shows. This one includes two pre-series specials (one with Frank & Dean and one with Phil Slivers & Robert Goulet), a PBS documentary on the concert years, and rarest of all, Judy & Liza in concert together at the London Palladium.
In the VCR - Lots of shows taped from Trio's "Brilliant But Cancelled" series. Of what I've watched so far, "East Side, West Side" was way ahead of its time and is current today. In addition to very relevant stories that are not tied up neatly at the end (as life is never tied up), there are some of the finest New York actors of the early 60s. The regulars are George C. Scott, Cecily Tyson and Elizabeth Wilson, and some of the guests so far have been Ruby Dee, James Earl Jones (when he was still a brilliant actor and not a cartoon voice/phone company spokesman), Lois Nettelton, Penny Fuller, Carroll O'Conner and many others. "The Famous Teddy Z" which was on in 1989 is funnier than any current sitcom. I haven't watched any episodes yet of Ernie Kovak, Robert Altman's Gun or United States, but the tapes are filling up fast.
Did everyone see the picture of our very own Kerry Butler in the 2nd issue of Show People which just came out? The magazine itself is a mixed bag. It will never replace such defunct publications as Show Music, In Theatre or Theatre Week, but it is better than nothing.
By the way, what time are the cows expected home?
Posted by William E. Lurie @ 12/13/2002 08:29 AM PST

In my car CD player what I still consider the CD OF THE YEAR-Jessica Molaskey's PENTIMENTO.
In my CD player at home-Christine Andreas- HERE'S TO THE LADIES.
In my DVD player- Jennifer Jason Leigh in RUSH.
Posted by Arnold M. Brockman @ 12/13/2002 08:35 AM PST

Arnold -
Why not tell the Hainesies/Kimlets about Wednesday night - I am sure everyone would love to know whose company you kept...
Posted by Craig @ 12/13/2002 08:39 AM PST

Dear BK--
I am so happy that my directions helped speed your way home last night.
By the way (BTW in internet lingo), the author/actor next to whom you were seated last night is named Curt Owens.
Pity you couldn't spend some time in Palm Springs other than for the signing. It is ever so lovely out there.
Posted by Jay @ 12/13/2002 09:15 AM PST

Correction: Curt Lowens
Posted by Jay @ 12/13/2002 09:23 AM PST

Actually, it's Curt Lowens (I remembered on the way to work). Also, I totally forgot to mention that it is Friday the 13th. Be careful of crazy people named Jason (they know who they are) today. Unless you live on Elm Street in which case you should be careful of people named Jason AND Freddy.
Posted by bk @ 12/13/2002 09:25 AM PST

You beat me to it, Jay.
Posted by bk @ 12/13/2002 09:26 AM PST

Does anyone know what BFS stands for in internet lingo? I'm sure it's something appallingly obvious, but I can't figure it out.
TIA (thanks in advance in internet lingo).
Posted by JMK @ 12/13/2002 10:08 AM PST

BFS could stand for Before Frank Sinatra or Bruce's Fantastic Sow or Barbra Fershluganah Streisand.
By the way (BTW, in Internet lingo), the merry searchers are back, searching merrily. Could this be because Mr. Brent Barrett's new album is out. Brent Barrett. Brent Barrett. Brent Barrett. There, I do hope I've been helpful.
Merrily they search,
Searching's what they like to do
Merrily they search along
Search along
Grasping at straws...
Posted by bk @ 12/13/2002 10:21 AM PST

Rain, Rain, Go Away...
But we still need the rain, so I guess it's all right that it's raining. But it's opening night! Shouldn't there be a song about raining on opening night?
Well, I decided to take a few moments just now and take care of some Christmas shopping for myself, and ordered both the FNM DVD and Benjamin Kritzer. I look forward to them helping to keep me entertained during my upcoming days off. -I still have to work nights, but my days will be free for the most part.
As for CD/DVD/VCR... I have a couple of things lined up for next week:
DVD - E.T and Beauty & The Beast - FINALLY!, and Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol - Oh, story time...
When my dad was stationed at the Coast Guard Academy in New London, CT, each Christmas we would go the Academy auditorium for their Christmas presentation. It usually consisted of a couple of selections from the Coast Guard Band, and then a showing of Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol. But the best was yet to come! After the movie, we would all head out to the lobby and meet up with Santa. And here's the best part - Santa would give us a present, and, much to my surprise - and my three brothers - we always got exactly what we wanted! WOW! I remember being constantly amazed at this wonderful surprise.
-And it wasn't until just a few years ago, that I realized what Santa's secret was... ;-)
CD Player - Christmas albums galore: Carpenters, Manhattan Transfer, those "What if Mozart wrote..." string quartet albums, Nancy Lamott, Chanticleer, etc...
See you after the show!
Posted by Jose C. Simbulan @ 12/13/2002 10:26 AM PST

Palm Springs.....sigh.... It sounds like a comfy bed doesn't it?
I shall purchase the Brent Barrett CD. Hopefully it will arrive before Christmas.
In my DVD player SPETTERS a Dutch film that really defies description, but is entertaining nonetheless. I have also ordered the 4-DVD Judy Garland set as a companion to my JUDY GARLAND SHOW DVD's!
In my CD player: out with Teresa Brewer this week and in with Mavis Rivers - at last on CD with her two Capitol albums and the incomparable Jonathon and Darlene Edwards....if you know, you know....if you don't, I can't explain it.
Only one gift left coming by mail...oh make that two, but I am optimistic, yes I am optimistic!
Chat on Sunday this week?
Posted by Jrand55 @ 12/13/2002 10:30 AM PST

I am in the dark about BFS. But be careful how you use it.
Posted by Jrand55 @ 12/13/2002 10:32 AM PST

Be careful JMK, someone may be asking about your boy friend status.
Posted by Jrand55 @ 12/13/2002 10:35 AM PST

Jose - just got your orders and your goodies will ship tomorrow. Jrand55 - if you order Brent's CD from amazon (excellent price) you will definitely get it before Christmas. Also, yes, the live chat is Sunday at six Pacific Mean Time.
Posted by bk @ 12/13/2002 10:39 AM PST

Craig et al-
I was in the company of the magnificent and beautiful Maureen McGovern on Wednesday night.She performed at our club. She sang her Richard Rodgers show and it was wonderful.Maureen is a very warm and caring person. My wife and I took her back to her hotel after the show and I commented that I really enjoyed the score to DEAR WORLD(she appeared in this show in Salt Lake City this summer to glowing reviews)and especially the Tea Party scene. She then began to sing her part.A small brief private a capella moment but a stunning one.
Posted by Arnold M. Brockman @ 12/13/2002 11:04 AM PST

For the best article yet on DOTV, go to
http://www.nypost.com/entertainment/51519.htm
(There will be a lot of popup ads, but it's worth it.)
Posted by William E. Lurie @ 12/13/2002 11:09 AM PST

Thanks, BK. Done and done! What a wonderful story, Mr Brockman.
Posted by Jrand55 @ 12/13/2002 11:11 AM PST

I maybe part of the merry searchers. I've been looking for wonderful BK comments on a variety of the rep singers. I of course started with Brent and have worked my way up to Debbie Gravitte MGM album. I have been looking for pictures, reviewers, comments to include on the website.
Of course it won't look as polished as Haines His Way, but this is all new to me. Of course BK wonderful quote today will go on the Alan Jay Lerner Information Page.
Posted by Michael Shayne. @ 12/13/2002 11:19 AM PST

CAR CD: Just finished listening to book on CD the complete unabridged Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Rings. Nexy Up Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers.
DVD: Goldmember mainly for the extra material.
CD in the house: Continues to be Brent Barrett's Alan Jay lerner Album. This has put this album in the top ten of my favorite male vocalist albums. It is right up there with Lee Lessack and Kevin Koelbl albums. Really looking to seeing Brent performing at the Old School House's cabaret series. I think its in February.
Posted by Michael Shayne @ 12/13/2002 11:24 AM PST

No, Michael, in addition to your searching we have also had our usual merry searchers. Believe me, I know the difference. Only six more hours and I shall be heading home.
Posted by bk @ 12/13/2002 11:29 AM PST

Well, since I have an undying crush on Brent Barrett, I am pleased his second CD has seen the light of day. Amazon will be hearing from me soon!
But in the CD player: like my fellow Richmonder, Jose, many Christmas albums, mine including Cabaret Christmas and Cleo Laine's Christmas at the Stables. Awaiting me are the OCRs of Thoroughly Modern Millie, Sweet Smell of Success and Elaine Stritch At Liberty. Something tells me Stritchie will be next.
I have been watching Christmas videos as well: The I Love Lucy Christmas Show and an oddity called a Broadway Christmas -- odd because despite its name it is music videos of the London casts of Les Miz, Aspects of Love, Starlight Express singing Christmas songs from the out-of-print Save the Children CD produced by Cameron Mackintosh's brother Bobby. But is very fun nonetheless, as is the CD set.
Posted by Philip Crosby @ 12/13/2002 11:32 AM PST

Thanks, BK! Now that's service!
Posted by Jose C. Simbulan @ 12/13/2002 12:10 PM PST

In the car cd player: Lee Lessack (thank you, Dear Reader Kerry!)
In the house CD player: Give Me Jesus, by Bruce Ewing, an acquaintance of mine, who was an awesome Jinx in the Vegas production of Forever Plaid. I'm thinking he would be a brilliant addition to the Kimmel Family of Singers, if BK ever decides to start producing music CDs again.
In the VCR -- um, still nothing. Do you think I wasted money buying a VCR? We never use it.
Posted by Laura @ 12/13/2002 12:18 PM PST

Hi there Kimlets. Long time no e. Just dropping by to share the contents of my DVD and CD players.
In my CD player is a Richard Harris 2fer CD that includes all of A Tramp Shining and The Yard Went On Forever. I think this is a British release (on the Universal imprint Half Moon), but it sounds great, and I'm not sure I've ever encountered The Yard Went On Forever on CD before.
In my DVD player is the complete Rodgers and Hammerstein Fox set - a bargain at BJ's for $60! I set foot in a wholesale club for the first time in about two and a half years and was overwhelmed at the panacea of bargains. Incidentally, if anyone wants canned pears, I have enough to go around for about the next twelve years.
Posted by dlevy @ 12/13/2002 01:42 PM PST

Packing packing packing, that
is what I'm doing today.
Packing because, this
weekend, I am moving moving
moving. Finished the very last
of my classes and finals as a
university student this week,
and now it's off to the
wonderful world of student
teaching for three months
before they let me be the real
teacher!
Unfortunately, this means I will
be without internet access for
a couple days, including for
the chat on Sunday. But as
soon as I'm all settled in and I
have internet again, I shall
hurry right on back to this here
wonderful site.
CDs: Reflections of
Christmas by Male
Ensemble Northwest
Urinetown
...Forum OBC
VCR: Mighty Aphrodite
currently, and probably
Fargo and/or As
Good As It Gets later today
while I continue to pack
DVD player is busy functioning
as my CD player for the list
above
Posted by Jed @ 12/13/2002 01:53 PM PST

Weds. night I finished reading one of the most amazing books I've ever picked up. No, I'm not talking about "Benjamin Kritzer," which is, of course, a fantastic novel. No, I'm speaking of Michael Chabon's book "The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay." Never, EVER has a book moved me like this one did. I was in tears as I finished the last few pages because I was sad to be finishing the book and leaving the characters. It is a truly beautiful novel (and it won the 2001 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction) and I highly recommend it to all of you. Cheers to Mr. Chabon for writing such an exquisite piece.
Did I mention I cried? On more than one occasion, even.
That being re-said (I posted it last night), let's talk about that scandalous article in the NY Post about VAMPIRES!! If any of that stuff is found to be untrue, I fear that journalist may have a lawsuit on his hands. But you know what? I loved it! Every last scathing word of it. I'm so bad...
Posted by Jason @ 12/13/2002 02:05 PM PST

Dear Reader Jason:
There was an item on Advocate.com today announcing that THE AMAZING ADVENTURES OF KAVALIER & CLAY will be done as a movie. Here is the link:
http://www.advocate.com/new_news.asp?ID=7194&sd=12/13/02
Posted by Jay @ 12/13/2002 02:15 PM PST

Well well well (that's 3 wells) it MUST be Friday the 13th!! David Levy posted!
David - you really shouldn't be so errant and truant! Post often please...
Posted by Craig @ 12/13/2002 02:22 PM PST

Jay--thanks for the info. I think I had heard that somewhere, but I hadn't actually seen it in print. I can't wait...I hope they do justice to the novel.
Happy Friday the 13th!
Posted by Jason @ 12/13/2002 02:54 PM PST

Happy Friday!
I only want to say - oh! a Tim Rice/Andrew Lloyd Webber reference - that I indeed, do know what BFS stands for in internet lingo.
Oh, and also to add to the Friday viewing + listening experience:
cd player: add the following to last week's list:
Brent Barrett - The Alan Jay Lerner Album - as the Queen of Transylvania said to Eliza, "Charming. Absolutely charming." *
The Lord of the Rings * The Two Towers - OST
Bobby Darin - From Hello Dolly to Goodbye Charlie/Venice Blue; a nice twofer from Exemplar Music. All I can say about this one is "wow!" Lot of tunes that I was unfamiliar with that have become favorites nearly overnight: "Where Love has Gone," for example. I also love the rhyme schemes of "Goodbye Charlie."
dvd player:
The Producers
Roman Holiday
War and Peace
Lilo and Stitch
Spetters - which actually CAN be described as a Paul Verhoeven film from the time period that he was actually making GOOD MOVIES.
*Who do we petition to get a Grammy nomination for Brent's album? It is so finely produced, recorded and sung. I'm sure I'm not alone when I say that this cd should be an award winner!
Posted by td @ 12/13/2002 03:37 PM PST

CD Car - The Beautiful Game
CD Bedroom - Carpenter's Ticket To Ride (it never leaves)
DVD - empty
VHS - empty
Kinda boring, but it is the Christmas season and with my production of "Annie", Christmas planning and rehearsal for church and my school's Christmas Concert, one barely has time to watch "The Nanny". I'll catch up on everything after December 25. Cheers!
Posted by Matthew @ 12/13/2002 03:49 PM PST

Hi,
I'm new to the sandbox, but I wanna play, too...
Tonight's all-nighter DVD line-up: Truly Madly Deeply,Glengarry GlenRoss,and Damage.
Car CD: the soundtrack from Hedwig And The Angry Inch.
Kitchen CD player: Aerosmith: Big Ones.
Pleased to make your acquaintances!
KT,
Las Vegas
Posted by KT @ 12/13/2002 04:21 PM PST

td - please tell us what BFS means.
Posted by Jrand55 @ 12/13/2002 04:22 PM PST

dlevy - thanks for the heads up - just added the Richard Harris CD to my order at Amazon.com!
The Yard Went On Forever!
Posted by Jrand55 @ 12/13/2002 04:32 PM PST

Welcome, KT!
Hey everybody, break out the ham chunks and cheese slices, KT is here!
Posted by Jay @ 12/13/2002 04:34 PM PST

I guess I have nothing to say because I share the CD player and VCR with Dear Reader My Mom.
Posted by Sandra @ 12/13/2002 04:34 PM PST

Speaking of the Grammys:
When I told my Joe that Brent was forbidden to thank Bruce, he asked, "Suppose he wins a Grammy. Can he thank him when he accepts it?"
Posted by William F. Orr @ 12/13/2002 04:39 PM PST

Oh, but speaking of The Advocate, they have a story on the movie of Chicago in the latest issue, and it is on line at:
http://www.advocate.com/html/stories/879/879_chicago.asp
It's an interview with Rob Marshal and Craig Zadan et al. And we do learn some things about the film.
Posted by William F. Orr @ 12/13/2002 04:44 PM PST

CD Players: Three Wishes for Jamie (OBC),Down the Holiday Trail (Teresa Brewer) and Christmas (Michael Ball).
DVD. "In The Bedroom".
Matthew: Did "The Beautiful Game" get there by accident? Just joking. I occasionally play the "big" songs. I saw thought the show and found it almost laughable - for the wrong reasons. Ben Elton please stay away from lyric writing.
Welcome KT.
Posted by Tom from OZ @ 12/13/2002 05:00 PM PST

Thanks, Jay! Ham chunks, cheese slices, and unconditional acceptance---throw in some Mateus
and I'm so "there"...
KT
Posted by KT @ 12/13/2002 05:08 PM PST

Welcome KT, to the land of the cheese slice and ham chunk, the land of Hainsies/Kimlets, the land of posting until the cows come home, the land of festive festivities and lively discourse. Every day is a party here at haineshisway.com. Also, join us for our live chat Sunday at six. All you need is an IM name or if not on AOL an AIM name.
Posted by bk @ 12/13/2002 05:11 PM PST

I just got my new 99 cent EBAY keyboard. It is a lovely blue and has turbo keys and a soft touch and I am trying it out. It is snowing and TAKEN is on SciFi and everyone is talking here on HHW! It is just wonderful.
Mr BK was indeed today your last day at that job?
Posted by Jrand55 @ 12/13/2002 05:25 PM PST

BFS????
My, that means
BORN FRENCH AND SEXY!!!!
which might be redundant ???
Welcome, KT !
KKKK T
Beautiful K T.......
Posted by François @ 12/13/2002 05:27 PM PST

Oh my goodness........
.......it's today !!!!!
Yes, Virginia, and all friends
here, it's today !!
We do have a birthday to
celebrate; the birthday of a
wonderful friend of all Kimlets
and Hainsies SINCE the
beginning, the one and only
Tom from OZ !!!!!
So, Tom, friendly thoughts go
to you on that special day: you
are a special and generous
and caring and thoughful and
altruistic gentleman --- yes,
Virginia, he's ALL that and
some more, i'm sure !
Here's to you, Tom: Joyeux
Anniversaire !!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY from us to
you !
Posted by François @ 12/13/2002 05:38 PM PST

Hey, Jason, td, Michael, Ben,
Ron, Sandra......it's Tom's
BDay !!!
Posted by François @ 12/13/2002 05:41 PM PST

Happy Birthday, Tom!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Let us all eat cake.
Posted by Laura @ 12/13/2002 05:53 PM PST

In my CD player at work: BK produced "The Stephen Schwartz Album." Russell Watson's "The Voice" will be waiting for when I get back to work on Monday.
In my VCR: a tape to tape the last two episodes of "Taken" tonight. I'm going to a high school production of FUNNY GIRL and won't be home to watch them.
In my DVD player, nothing, yet. Tomorrow is the first day in a month where I'll have nothing to do all day and I'm going to stay home and watch TV...and unpack some boxes...for only the second time since moving last month. I plan to listen to Donald's radio show as I unpack and after unpacking, I want to watch The First Nudie Musical on my own TV in my own apartment without any interruptions. Wish me luck!
I can't wait to get Brent Barrett's new CD. I have his first one. Last year (exactly one year ago last week), I was in London and saw Brent and Marin Mazzie in KISS ME KATE. It was one of the highlights of my trip. I stood outside the stage door after the show (only a couple of other people did also) and got autographs (Marin Mazzie, Michael Berresse, Nancy Anderson, Nicolas Colicos, and a couple of others). I never did get Brent's autograph. Darn.
Posted by George @ 12/13/2002 05:53 PM PST

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO TOM!
This is a family site, so, I'll clue you in on BFS:
the first word is BIG
the third word is SMILE
BFS in internet lingo therefore is:

Posted by td @ 12/13/2002 05:56 PM PST

Tom -- your birthday gift is in the mail! Let me know when it arrives.
Posted by Robert Armin @ 12/13/2002 05:58 PM PST

Happy Birthday Tom! People must really remind me of their birthdays (doesn't William F. Orr have one soon?) or I will forget to have the proper haineshisway.com celebration. You must e-mail me a day or two in advance even if you find tooting your own horn unseemly - toot away.
Today is indeed my final day in the madhouse, although I wouldn't be surprised if they try to have me come in for a day or two (whether I would or not remains to be seen). I'll be leaving in fifteen minutes or so, and Luckie will be delivered at seven-thirty and she will at last have her new permanent home.
Posted by bk @ 12/13/2002 06:06 PM PST

The birthday boy sends his thanks to you all. I think I get two days of this. My birthday is today 14th, but that is not today there. But then it is for Allan and Francois. It is all too too confusing for 57 year old.
George: the voice of Mr Watson is "big" here too. Not for me - I had the feeling that it was mostly marketing.
I am so looking forward to Mr Barrett's Cd. - I have ordered it locally (along with the Merman disco) so guess it will be another month away.
LOTR will be on my shopping list - money received from my darling "mother-in-law" (if you know what I mean).She is a treasure and I am so much another son to her.
It is only another a week until mr Orr's birthday I think.
Posted by Tom from OZ @ 12/13/2002 06:14 PM PST

Kerry & Laura et al:
Cake in advance was "Marsbar Cake" - ever so rich. Today was the simple pleasure of lemon poppyseed cake. One day someone will think to give me icecream cake!
Thank you Francois. Altruistic. I hope the "Real me" can live up to that one. Appreciate your thoughts and wishes greatly.
Thanks BK. I hope you diarise all these celebratory dates for future reference - especially those of fellow sagitarians.
Posted by Tom from OZ @ 12/13/2002 06:21 PM PST

Tom From Oz - I find "The Beautiful Game" amusing also, some great songs with just bad lyric writing. I've had the CD for two years now, and every once in a while it begs to be played. I must say, I have been known to tear up at the end of the CD when they name the people who died and she sings the reprise of "Our Kind Of Love" with the other lyric, in many ways it speaks true to the events of the day. I'm off to conduct "Annie" now, it's raining here in the SF Bay Area, not a night to hear "Tomorrow" 6 times. Maybe the sun will come out tomorrow, but the best we can hope for is Tuesday, so I hear.
Posted by Matthew @ 12/13/2002 06:28 PM PST

First, Tom Oh, Happy Day to you, even though by the time you read it, it may be over.
Well, it's officially the Christmas season (for me, anyway, even as it rains here in NYC). I watched Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer on CBS and then switched to ABC and watched A Charlie Brown Christmas. I have to admit, I wasn't crazy about the little vignettes after ACBC. They didn't have the same charm that the show has IMHO (In My Humble Opinion in internet lingo).
As I mentioned yesterday, I've been busy volunteering so there isn't much in my CD player or the VCR. As I type this I am listening to the Manhattan Transfer Christmas Album, one of my favorites! Next is Barry Manilow's 1990 Because It's Christmas. I'm waiting for my Anthony to arrive home from Bridgeport after Babes in Toyland. He will get in around 12:30 after a van ride, provided courtesy of the theatre and the Equity contract, something has to make up for the SPT contract, or as Ant and the cast refer to it, Sucky Pay Theatre contract-ah, the vagaries of an actor's life. I miss some of it, but I'm living vicariously through my honey right now so I'm happy. I'm going up to see the show again this Sunday with friends of ours, then to dinner with them. I'm looking forward to our Christmas even though it's still 12 days away. Today (it was a short volunteer day) I bought our Christmas pudding and Brandy Butter Hard Sauce. I spent Christmas in London in 1984 with dear friends and they introduced me to Christmas pud and hard sauce. I've tried to have it every year since. Also, I like to have Eccles Cakes with my coffee on Christmas morning.
My, my, my (that's three "mys") that last paragraph was certainly off topic, but at least I'm here and posting. Makes me feel good.
Since I have a free day tomorrow (Anthony leaves for Bridgeport around 11AM for a matinee and then an evening performance), I hope to post again.
Happy holidays my friends.
Posted by Ben @ 12/13/2002 07:19 PM PST

FYI, SPT Contract actually stands for Small Professional Theatre contract
Posted by Ben @ 12/13/2002 07:21 PM PST

Thanks Ben. It's still the right day here! hope "Babes In Toyland" is going well for Anthony. maybe he is into the "uniform" thing with all those toy soldiers. Despite the hot summer weather and contrary to images perceived by the rest of the world, most of us have the tradional English hot Christmas dinner here. The pudding is rarely replaced even if the hot main course is. I prefer ice-cream with my plum pudding. But then I prefer ice-cream with almost anything. Colin made some mango ice-cream this week. A bit on the icy side as mangos contain much water - I think we will stick to the wonderous berry fruits - raspberry especially - for the summer.
Was it "Bridgeport" that was mentioned in Barnum?
My box of Christmas Cds is now out of the cupboard. If I kept playing them all I would be here until Easter. Why do I keep buying them? Maybe Bobby Darin's will get a fair hearing this year. The Christmas season officially starts after Dec 14 as far I"m concerned! Love to hear about volunteer work. I have been absent this year but over the past few have tried to jolly a few nursing home residents along. (If I sung for them there would have been spare beds for new residents). A smile to those poor overworked people in retail can be rewarding to the smiler and the smilee at this time of the year.
Posted by Tom from OZ @ 12/13/2002 07:42 PM PST

Yes, Bridgeport is mentioned in Barnum and there is a Barnum Museum in Bridgeport. I went to the Museum in 1988 when Bridgeport was still in the throes of economic downturn. I didn't go to see the Barnum Museum but because they had an exhibit on one of my favorite characters, Babar! Oh, I love Babar and his troupe. The museum was actually pretty good. Now Bridgeport is in the throes of an economic revival (as it were) but I haven't been back to the museum since 1988.
Posted by Ben @ 12/13/2002 08:07 PM PST

Oh Tom,
Happy, happy Day!
I'm so glad you had such wondrous cakes.
To Bruce:
In my car CD player: Brent Barrett's new album. You did a terrfic job, by the way.
In my VCR: the tape of the first two episodes of "Taken" (which I still have'nt seen) ready to tape the last episode.
At work: Christmas CD's (things like the Blue Hawaiians, etc.) One of the light rock stations has been playing the usual stuff all week, plus the normal Christmas Muzak around the mall, so I've brought some of the more unusual stuff to spice things up. We've even played the Hollywood and Broadway Christmas CD's.
I'd tell you what the last DVD I played was, but this is a family site!
Why can't one of us win the lottery big time, so we could all get together and have a big party?!?
Posted by Kerry @ 12/13/2002 08:34 PM PST

IMHO this is indeed the most informative and educational site on the internet. Thank you Ben.
Posted by Tom from OZ @ 12/13/2002 08:35 PM PST

Thanks Kerry.
Posted by Tom Guest (from OZ) @ 12/13/2002 08:37 PM PST

Well, after a trip to my corner record store (run by a wonderful couple whom I've been thankful to know for close to 30 years), I picked up GOLDMEMBER for $10 on dvd, watched it, laughed out loud frequently, then went to the bonus materials - the deleted scenes and found a brilliant piece of film left on the cutting room floor. Susanna Hofts (former Bangle or Go Go) singing "Alfie," which the full cast takes turns at signing along ala MAGNOLIA. Absolutely lovely, Susanna's voice is wonderful, but the highlight (for me) was hearing Beyonce Knowles harmonizing ever so beautifully with her. So, Michael, and anyone else who has this dvd - run to the remote, get into that All Access section, find the Deleted Scenes, and just keep playing #13 over and over again.
Posted by td @ 12/13/2002 09:01 PM PST

Okay here goes --
DVD: The Anniversary Party & Crush.
CD: Christmas Music including Broadway Christmas, Cabaret Noel and a dash of Pavarotti.
Posted by Angela D. @ 12/13/2002 09:24 PM PST

A Barbarnum Museum in
bridgeport ???
I'm confused !
Posted by François @ 12/13/2002 09:50 PM PST

First of all: HAPPY BIRTHDAY, TOM!! Why didn't you tell us?!?! I feel like such a heel--you sent me a gift, and I didn't even know to wish you a happy birthday. :-( Next time, TELL US!!
KT: Welcome to the family!
Tonight must have been the night for the bitches and bastards of NYC to come to the opera. (Forgive my language). I was chewed out at least three times, and called a jerk--to my face!--on at least one occasion; I was just trying to do my job! Oh, well. We each came out of the evening with $16 in our pockets in tips (which is great for us), so I can't whine too much. Oh, Jose...we opened DIALOGUES DES CARMELITES tonight. It looks simply stunning and from what I've heard of the score over the monitors, it sounds wonderful. I enjoy Poulenc.
Well, I should head to bed. Tom, I hope you had a truly fantastic day, and KT, I hope we see you around a lot more.
In my CD player: PHANTOM OF THE OPERA (Act II); Our very own BK's Stephen Schwartz Album.
In my computer CD player: PHANTOM OF THE OPERA (Act I).
In the VCR: LES MIZ 10th Anniversary Concert.
Posted by Jason @ 12/13/2002 09:51 PM PST

The Anniversary Party & Crush
dvd ????
I'm EVEN MORE confused !!!!
Do you star in it, Tom the Bday
boy ???
Posted by François @ 12/13/2002 09:52 PM PST

Oh, Tom did tell us, Jason,
around a week ago, when we
were talking about Bruce's BD
coming up ! He did tell us, but
we forgot................
Posted by François @ 12/13/2002 09:54 PM PST

And I repeat: I feel like such a heel. :-\
Posted by Jason @ 12/13/2002 10:52 PM PST

Hehe...I got the 69-th post. (WOW! I need to go on a date!)
Posted by Jason @ 12/13/2002 10:53 PM PST

For my birthday I should have had that Jason. I will work on it tomorrow. Thanks for the wishes.
Is there a "Dialogues Des Trappists" I wonder.
Who needs gifts when you have HHW friends? Besides Jasonit is not the 14th yet in NYC. I still have five hours to go of the 14th here.
Posted by Tom from OZ @ 12/13/2002 11:56 PM PST

Happiest of birthdays, Tom...sorry I was so late getting to my PC and reading about this. How did I miss learning about this before reading all the greetings?
I hope Magnus and Fosca gave you lots of kisses!!!!!!
Did Francois send a huge French kiss your way? Here's a huge American one...MMMMMMMWWWWAAAHHHHHH!
Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 12/14/2002 01:07 AM PST

Errancy and truancy has been the name of my game this week and, having read all the interesting posts that have happened in my absence I'm now late for an appointment. But:
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TOM!!!! You don't look a day over 36.
Posted by Allan @ 12/14/2002 03:11 AM PST

Happy Birthday TOM.
td thanks for the answer - it gave me a BFS.
8-D
JMK did you read the explanation above? Watching HOUSEBOAT today and EARTH vs the FLYING SAUCERS!
Posted by Jrand55 @ 12/14/2002 03:39 AM PST

Francois --
Anniversary Party & Crush -- two DVD's?? I know, it's a skill!
Posted by Angela D. @ 12/14/2002 10:26 AM PST

Francois --
Anniversary Party & Crush -- two DVD's?? I know, it's a skill!
Posted by Angela D. @ 12/14/2002 10:27 AM PST

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