Posted by Jose C. Simbulan @ 06/03/2003 02:27 AM PST

Oh, Tom - I've had that half-notes problem too every now and then... For me - and I use IE - it was just a matter of clearing out the history - or even just that entry - and then refreshing again - F5.

Maybe....

Posted by Jose C. Simbulan @ 06/03/2003 03:02 AM PST

NOW I'm going to bed...

Faro, Faro, Liiii....

AAAGGHHHH!!!!!!

Posted by Jose C. Simbulan @ 06/03/2003 03:03 AM PST

What wonderful notes to read so early in the morning!

I am sure the fun will show up on the CD!!! Thanks for sharing the process with us. You lucky DR who were there...sigh...oh well.

Yes, Bill, I think being a HeeHaw honey was Alicia's first "professional" gig. She mentions it now and then in her Playbill bio - check your SIDESHOW bio.

TCB - SOUTH PACIFIC opens on Thursday and I feel your pain. It's just very difficult to work at a theatre without a tech director and you have to set your own sound levels, which is impossible because you are in the booth running the board...and everyone is going crazy because Bloody Mary's mike isn't working and it turns out it has fallen off her shirt and down her pants. Who knew?

Two more rehearsals. And of course last night was picture night so family could come and take photos and EVERYONE has advice! Where were they when we were looking for directors?

Not that I'm complaining...this early in the morning. BUT why do these shows all have 8 1/2 minute overtures - and last nearly three hours? Talk about getting your money's worth!

Oh well....some pictures will be up on the theatre website in the next couple of days and I will post a link.

Favorite songs? Of these singers?

Judy Garland - The Man That Got Away.

Frank Sinatra - Young at Heart

Jack Jones - Wives and Lovers

Tony Bennett - The Best Is Yet to Come

But each was a very tough choice to make!

Posted by Jrand52 @ 06/03/2003 05:30 AM PST

What a night. Last night was the FINIAN'S RAINBOW benefit at the Hudson Theatre for the Irish Rep.

To begin with, it was a great night for celebrity spotting (Jason - you missed a great opportunity): John McMartin, Fritz Weaver, Joan River's daughter and my favorite of all Charlotte Rae. I normally do not approach a celebrity, but Ms. Rae was standing alone in the lobby (waiting for Mrs. Burton Lane to return from the ladies' room as it turned out) so I could not resist and she proved to be quite charming. I mentioned L'IL ABNER (one of BK's favorites), THE LITTLEST REVUE and 70 GIRLS 70. We talked about the show we were about to see, and her forray into sitcoms was not even mentioned. A very nice lady.

As for the show itself, it was a concert version. The book was condensed, but unlike Encores, a narrator filled in the action from the cut scenes. The famous Bromo-Seltzer scene was eliminated, but otherwise this production proves that the original book is not dated or offensive and could easily be revised with only a little minor trimming. It does not need a whole new book and that is probably why the planned revival never made it to New York.

The score, of course, is a classic. "How Are Things in Gloca Morra", "Old Devil Moon", "Look To The Rainbow"... and that's just a start.

As for the production, with a cast like they assembled it was perfect. Melissa Errico was more beautiful than ever and sang Sharon's songs as if they were written for her. Her Brogue was just right and she never lost it. The same can be said for John Cullum. I'm only sorry that the character of Finian doesn't sing more. Rounding out the three leads was Denis O'Hare as Og the leprecaun who played it a little differently than I have seen it done but just as effectively. However this was by no means just a three actor show. An actor I had never heard of - Ciaran Sheehan - played Woody and his voice was as good as any top singer today and blended perfectly with Melissa's in the duets. Terri White stopped the show with "Necessity". Tina Ou danced Susan and was quite good. Joshua Parks was Buzz and has gotten rid of the frightwig hairstyle he wore in TOM SAWYER and PRODIGAL.

On the downside, I'm sure the Irish Rep lost a lot of money. We were in the balcony which was only about 10% full, and from the small crowds in the lobby I'm sure the main floor and mezaninne were no more than half full. Of course there was very little publicity. What a shame that more people could not attend this wonderful event.

By the way, Betty Bacall introduced the evening. She looked wonderful and was quite charming.

Posted by William E. Lurie @ 06/03/2003 06:43 AM PST

I'm not sure I understand Jose's first message...

Has somebody been outed here at HHW?

In other news, I saw "8 Women" the other night. Enjoyed it more than somewhat, and quite some. (A Damon Runyon reference, which is almost a GUYS & DOLLS reference...)

I also saw a local production of MAN OF LA MANCHA on Friday night, and for the first time in my life I walked out at intermission. It was dreadful, and wrong-headed, and badly directed, and I decided I would just rather be at home than sit through another minute of it.

Best review quote: a friend of mine saw the show, and mentioned how the fellow playing Don Quixote had a way of moving onstage as though he was carrying a load in his drawers. He later referred to him as the "Knight of the Woeful Incontinence".

When I tell you that Dr. Carrasco entered with his hand down his pants (a la Al Bundy) and then proceeded to pick his nose and eat it...well, you get the idea of what kind of show it was.

In brighter news, RAGTIME and FOREVER PLAID rehearsals are underway, and going quite well.

I will be attending a meeting tomorrow night, at which time I will make a proposal to direct the Fall 2004 show at my company. I think I have a very good shot at being approved.

For me, there are several Frank Sinatras: the young "Frankie" of the 1940s, the "old blue eyes" of the 1950s, the leader of the "rat pack" of the 1960s, etc. So choosing a single favourite is too difficult.

From his early years, I would probably choose "All or Nothing At All". From his middle years, "Saturday Night is the Loneliest Night of the Week". And, of course, his "New York, New York" is definitive.

I'll second the motion on "The Man That Got Away" by Judy Garland.

I like Tony Bennett best when he is not singing.

Posted by Dave @ 06/03/2003 08:18 AM PST

Dave---
You're lucky that production of LA MANCHA had an intermission to walk out at. The show is supposed to be played as one long intermissionless act, but many productions take one anyway.

Posted by William E. Lurie @ 06/03/2003 08:27 AM PST

Gotta sell that popcorn.

Posted by Treasurer @ 06/03/2003 08:36 AM PST

WEL, in this case it would have been played as one lloooooooonnggg intermissionless act. ;-(

To make matters worse, the mother of the young lady who played Aldonza went backstage after the show and announced to the cast that I had left at intermission. I can't imagine why she would do that (why would anyone care??), but I had a few friends in the cast and I had to see them last night at rehearsal. It was awkward, to say the least. I explained to them that it wasn't the fault of the actors, but the director.

This weekend, I will be seeing THE SECRET GARDEN. I am sure it will be a much better show than the one I saw last weekend...

Posted by Dave @ 06/03/2003 08:41 AM PST

What a swell time all you New Yorkers had the last couple days. You know, BK, if you need some lusty villagers to sing on the west coast songs, I'm sure that DRs Kerry, MusicGuy, Sandra and I can free up some time.

Posted by Laura @ 06/03/2003 08:50 AM PST

BK, so what is this cd called and when is it going to be released? (sorry if this has been mentioned and I missed it).

Posted by Jennifer @ 06/03/2003 09:27 AM PST

Tom of Oz – I appreciate the prayers. Recalling the events of last night for my co-workers this morning, it really was even worse than I remembered.

Jrand - I share your pain, as well. There is a good reason why we all call this Hell Week. At least, with Dolly, we are spared a long overture. In fact, when I saw the Pearl Bailey production on Broadway, years ago, I don’t believe they had any overture at all. I had to back out of a production of “South Pacific” last year because I broke my back (not related to the show). It is too bad, because “South Pacific” is one of the only R/H shows that I still enjoy. Nothing wrong with the shows, just a case of overload.

Today’s Question – Hmmm!

Judy Garland: The Man That Got Away or Rock-a-bye My Baby

Frank Sinatra: New York, New York (naturally)

Jack Jones: Wives and Lovers

Tony Bennett: If I Ruled the World

DR Dave - That is correct about no intermission in "Man of La Mancha". Dale Wasserman always says that he was so insecure about the show, that he was afraid that if there was an intermission, that nobody would ever come back for the second act.

Posted by TCB @ 06/03/2003 09:42 AM PST

Bruce-- Thanks for your kind words about Remy. She really enjoyed doing the recording with you and looks forward to working with you again. We look forward to hearing the CD. She was definitely not drinking martinis in NYC last night with her mom, although I think her mom wishes that at least part of your story was true.

Posted by Marc Zaken @ 06/03/2003 10:25 AM PST

Oh, I've been E & T! My computer crashed at work and I lost a day of work while IT was getting it back up. I'm still putting the final tweaks on it. I was changed from Windows NT to Windows 2000 so I'm getting used to the new system also.

It's hard to choose a Judy song. The Man That Got Away is certainly in the top 5 and also, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas. I really love the way she tears into I Could Go On Singing.

I love early and middle Frank but late Frank annoys me. This is all MHO (my humble opinion in Internet lingo) but I think late Frank has let his voice go, he doesn't care a rats patootie about how he sounds and his hateful behavior seems to spill out every time he opens his mouth so if I choose a favorite Frank (and I do REALLY like early and middle Frank) I would choose something from that period, like It Was Just One of Those Things or I Could Write a Book or In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning.

I have always liked Jack Jones but I don't think I have a favorite song of his.

It's also hard to choose for Tony Bennet. I do love I Left My Heart in San Francisco but he has done other songs too, some of his recordings of Michele LeGrand songs are gorgeous and I love the album he did w/K.D. Lang but I guess I'll go w/the obvious, I Left My Heart...

Posted by Ben @ 06/03/2003 10:28 AM PST

Oh, Yes, the best thing about my system crashing at work and re-installing things means that I can listen to Donald at work again! Hooray! Something stopped working months ago and I could only listen at home. No matter what I did including reinstalling Real Player. But the new OS and a reinstall of all those programs seems to have fixed the problem. I can now listen to Donald anywhere (between work and home that is). He's in NYC right now seeing shows as I recall.

Posted by Ben @ 06/03/2003 10:31 AM PST

I've been E & T for the last few days and haven't caught up yet, but I thought some of you guys would be interested in this.

Yesterday was the 50th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II's coronation and the London Evening Standard distributed a facsimile of their edition 50 years ago. It included listings for the shows which were running in the West End at the time:

Vivian Blaine in Guys and Dolls
Julie Wilson in South Pacific
Noel Coward in George Bernard Shaw's The Apple Cart
Bobby & Sally Ann Howes in Paint Your Wagon
Cyril Ritchard in a review 'High Spirits'
Anna Neagle in The Glorious Days
Alfred Lunt & Lynn Fontanne in Noel Coward's Quadrille
Jean Carson in Love From Judy
Billie Worth in Call Me Madam
and something called 'Two Bouquets' by Eleanor and Herbert Farjeon (if I remember correctly, Eleanor Farjeon wrote 'Morning Has Broken') - this is billed as 'The most delightful musical since Oklahoma' - anyone heard of it???

On topic - my favourite Judy Garland song is 'It Never Was You' and I would probably say my favourite Frank Sinatra song is 'Guess I'll Hang My Tears Out To Dry' on Only The Lonely. Not sure about JJ and TB.

Posted by Allan @ 06/03/2003 10:31 AM PST

Whoops, wrong about DF in NYC. He will be here June 5th thru June 8th.

Posted by Ben @ 06/03/2003 10:32 AM PST

Judy Garland: Get Happy

Frank Sinatra: Come Fly With Me

Jack Jones: Call Me Irresponsible

Tony Bennett: I Left My Heart in San Francisco

"Wicked" is EVER on my mind and in my heart! Tonight is the "premiere" with critics!

For those of you who have read the book, I've read things about the tone/ending of the book that make me want to assure you the play is only "based" on the book.

This show -- and its ending -- will AMAZE you! You will not be disappointed!

One of Glinda's lines:

"It's good to see me, isn't it!"

Glinda to Elphaba after her sister's demise:

"They're just shoes -- let it go!"

Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 06/03/2003 10:47 AM PST

OK, guys...I just found this and must share it with you all. Click on my name to be whisked away to the Wonderful World of Ron Popeil!

Did you know that ol' Ron is *still* selling spray-on hair, the dial-o-matic food slicer, and the pocket fisherman?

If you do nothing else, be sure to check out the FAQs. "Can I use GLH #9 (spray-on-hair) on my dog who has thinning hair?" "My Showtime Rotisserie makes a horrible squeaking noise when it turns. How can I stop that?" "The runners on my Showtime Rotisserie broke. Can I get them replaced?" ("Let me tell you about the three-year warranty for the low price of only $42!") What a hoot.

Posted by Lulu @ 06/03/2003 10:52 AM PST

The above mentioned British show LOVE FROM JUDY (by Hugh Martin) will finally be getting its US premiere next season at Musicals Tonight.

Posted by William E. Lurie @ 06/03/2003 10:52 AM PST

Favorite Judy Garland song:

GET HAPPY followed closely by THE MAN THAT GOT AWAY.

I am afraid I don't have any favorites for the others as I am not great fans of them...now if you were to mention Rosemary Clooney, Doris Day, and Frankie Laine, I could come up with several!

Hey, does anyone have any thoughts on Astrud Gilberto? She has been my latest favorite to listen to!

Posted by MBarnum @ 06/03/2003 10:53 AM PST

Hey, MBarnum...come on 'a my house!

Posted by R. Clooney @ 06/03/2003 10:57 AM PST

By the way, Jose - all of us Hainesies/Kimlets ARE...what?

Posted by Lulu @ 06/03/2003 11:01 AM PST

Follow, follow me... ???
-No.

Good morning once again. For those of you who missed my late post from yesterday, just check the archives... I think it was quite the ramble.

As for my first post today. I'm not really sure if I outed anyone, I merely stated something that was confirmed last night by our esteemed leader, BK. Just that: We all are. ;-)

Fa, la-la-la-la, la, la-la-la ???
-No.

Just a little more about yesterday... Truly what a wonderful time. And even the weather seemed to be enjoying itself. I had a bit of time, and just enjoyed walking around the Times Square area.

-Oh, and it looks like the Virginia Theatre will have to post another closing/ticket refund notice for Little Shop next to the ones for Flower Drum Song, and the Yakov Smirnov show - I think that was the other one.

Tra la, tra la... It's Ma-
-No!

The recording session was a blast. I really wish I could have stayed for Brent and Alison's session, but, alas, duty called - and the auditions I played for were fun too. It was one of those instances where they needed someone soon - next Monday - and called in about ten people. The first two people were OK - then the third was near perfect, so was the fourth... They had at least four good people they could offer the contract too. Thankfully, the first choice accepted. But the second and third choices were more or less tied with the first, so... It was all good.

But it was fun singing back up for Judy Kaye - who was there in "voice" and spirit - and we all learned what "walla, walla" is. -Besides being a town in southeast Washington state.

Oh, I meant to ask - where did the rest of the "chorus" come from? Who lined them up? Was it BK's assistant? -and a very cute one at that.

Too-ra-loo-ra-loo-ra...?
-NO!!

Oh, and the dinner was truly special. I just wish I could have also made the one on Sunday night too. Oh, and we forgot to mention that Rollo also made an apperance - and he seemed to cause a little stir among some of the other patrons. What a character he is(!!!!).

Farina, farina....
-NO!!!

Oh, and we came up with some great topics for future columns, and something most likely for this coming Sunday, Free-For-All Day! Be prepared!

Well, time for me to get my day started...

Oh, as for today's topic:

Another "Man That Got Away" for me for Judy.

I'll have to think about the others...

Faro, fa, faro-li..???

-YES!!!!

What?!?!?!

-Guess you had to be there...

Posted by Jose C. Simbulan @ 06/03/2003 11:03 AM PST

It's not a gang, it's a club.

Posted by Alfalfa @ 06/03/2003 11:40 AM PST

I have no interest in joining any club that would have me as a member.

Posted by Groucho Marx @ 06/03/2003 11:51 AM PST

I am home, safe and sound, but my allergies are really annoying me, plus I'm a bit overtired.

Judy - The Man That Got Away and Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

Frank - This is All I Ask

Jack - Lollipops and Roses

Tony - Emily

Posted by bk @ 06/03/2003 11:52 AM PST

Question?

I love the sequence in A STAR IS BORN in which Judy Garland sings THE MAN THAT GOT AWAY. The orchestration is so wonderful, and her phrasing is without parallel.

My question then:

Would this be considered orchestra or big band arranging? Or is there a difference? I like to watch the scene and watch all the musicians playing their instruments - maybe that's why I have such an affinity for the late nights after a show - when the musicians and singers get together and eventually someone starts to play and then everyone does....and someone starts to sing... That casualness that the super talented can have about their very talent never ceases to amaze me.

I do shows for evenings like that.

Posted by Jrand52 @ 06/03/2003 12:11 PM PST

Tony Bennett-I Left My Heart in San Francisco. Since we saw him years ago at the Greek Theater we have not appreciated him. Dionne Warwick opened for him, receiving a standing ovation for her performance and screams for more. Tony was sooooo bad people were walking out. He kept removing layers of clothing (gross) and returning for encores NO ONE called for.

Jack Jones on the other hand was funny and great at the Greek Theater. If I have to choose, guess it is I Wish You Love and Lollipops and Roses.

So many great Judy Garland songs. I love The Trolley Song. I feel happy when I hear it and think of Meet Me in St. Louis.

Posted by Jane @ 06/03/2003 12:45 PM PST

Judy: I also love The Trolley Song. Mr. Monotony a favorite as well

Frank: Good Thing Going (it's only because of the Sondheim connection--I don't particularly care for Frank. Well, maybe real early Frank)

Jack: The Love Boat (say what you will, I think that this is one of the best TV theme songs, not necessarily the best, but one of the best)

Tony: The Best Is Yet To Come

Posted by George @ 06/03/2003 02:10 PM PST

oops: Judy's should read "Mr. Monotony IS a favorite as well"

Posted by George @ 06/03/2003 02:11 PM PST

WEL, Josh Park and I did ONCE UPON A MATTRESS together. He was the Jester and I was Sir Harry. Seems like as a little boy he was in the chorus of BIG RIVER, too, but I may be wrong. It was more than a decade ago.

Judy - "This Heart of Mine" (I know, not one of her classic favorites, but I love it.)

Frank - "Time After Time"

Tony - "The Best Is Yet to Come"

Jack - "Wives and Lovers"

Posted by Matt H. @ 06/03/2003 02:12 PM PST

Re: "The Man That Got Away" being an orchestral or big band arrangment.

I don't know from arranging jargon, but I do know that there were violins and none were in sight in that night club.

It's a Hollywood hybrid, is my guess. You're meant to think it's a bunch of musicians and a singer just letting off steam, but that's the WB orchestra playing for all it's worth.

Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 06/03/2003 02:26 PM PST

Frank: Cycles
Tony: Young And Warm And Wonderful
Jack: The First Night Of The Full Moon
Judy: You Made Me Love You (Dear Mr Gable)
(I am not really a fan of JG so don't really know many of the songs. Not a JG CD in my collection).

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 06/03/2003 02:28 PM PST

A lull. Really, it's Ask BK Day, we haven't had Ask BK Day for two weeks and there are 0 count them 0 questions? My goodness, perhaps Ask BK Day shall become a thing of the past, perhaps we are questioned out. Oh, well, easier for me.

I thought I'd share part of a lovely e-mail I got from a fellow who discovered Benjamin Kritzer via classmates.com, and who just finished reading Kritzerland. To wit:

Hi Bruce,

Just finshed "Kritzerland" and enjoyed it as much as "Benjamim Kritzer". I had to keep reminding myself that it is a work of fiction.

It is almost as if I was there with you and Benjamin. Well, actually I almost was, because we lived at 1820 South Bedford Street. While I went to Shenandoah I had a lot of friends at Crescent Heights and even went to your Hamilton S'65 grad night party with Denise Cara.

I loved playing at Adohr, went to all the same movie theaters, played minature golf and went to Marty's, and I had my Bar Mitzvah ceremony at Bnai David before it moved across the street to the Stadium Theater. In addition, your brother Joel and I were on Hami track team.

I know that anyone from the old neighborhood will enjoy both of your books immensely, and I will post my comments on Amazon.com.

A hearty Mazel Tov on a poignant and seamless sequel. I loved your ending and hope that we will see how Benjamin finishes Pasteur and matures at Hamilton.

Best wishes,
Alan Patterson
W'64

Posted by bk @ 06/03/2003 03:42 PM PST

I think "Ask BK Day" will be semi-regular now that BK is once again "treading the sound levels," as it were.

But I think he'd answer any question anyone might pose!

Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 06/03/2003 03:51 PM PST

Isn't ask BK day on Wednesday? According to my calendar, it's still Tuesday.

Posted by Matthew @ 06/03/2003 03:52 PM PST

This is senility at its most frightening, but I have a good excuse. I actually wrote tomorrow's notes on the plane, because the plane ride was so amusing I didn't want to forget anything. So, I got confused which is what happens when Jews are of a certain age.

Posted by bk @ 06/03/2003 03:55 PM PST

However, we ARE having a lull. There is no question we are having a lull. If, for example, this WERE Ask BK Day, and someone asked if we were having a lull, I would have to answer yes.

Posted by bk @ 06/03/2003 03:56 PM PST

Ahhh. but you would not be answering YES today, for on ASK BK day, it is unseemly to reply to the questions that very day..

Glad you made it home safe and sound BK.

I might find out about a particular job I interviewed for. I hope that all the hainsies and kimlets put their prayers in for me tonight!

More later... I just met with a new client and have begun work on a very interesting website...

Posted by Craig @ 06/03/2003 04:08 PM PST

Good vibes headed your way, Craig. ~~> ~~>

Posted by Lulu @ 06/03/2003 04:31 PM PST

Oz vibes on their way Craig. Maybe Bill can get you a job as a candy taster.

I get my Barbara Cook/Sondheim DVD today. WOW! And "Passion" should ship in two weeks.
I watched "The Road To Perdition" last night. I think it was DR LULU who found it dull. I enjoyed it more than any other Hanks movie I have seen. (I thought Gump was dreadful). I know it won an oscar for Cinematography but at times the lighting etc looked too carefully set up for an effect. I was too conscious of "frame composition" for much of the movie. A worthwhile film though (IMHO). Would you believe I still have not looked at "Kiss Me Kate"?
I may be rambling but at least I am posting.

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 06/03/2003 04:45 PM PST

Thanks Jose. I deleted my history. (That would be interesting!) but still can not get to those notes. C'est La Vie.

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 06/03/2003 04:53 PM PST

Hello everyone!

Sorry for the long post but have several days to catch up on.

I just got in from my fab trip to NYC. Many many thanks to Bruce for allowing me to sit on the recording sessions and those fabulous dinners at Joe Allen.

Saw Chita,Lisa, Charles, Beth, Harriet, David (Allison corrected me on the pronouncation of his last name) They all looked fab. Though when we saw Chita and Lisa the conversation turned to Ben Bagley and what he wrote on his notes about him on Contemporary Broadway Revisted and leonard Bernstein revisted
. I couldn't remember what he said so I am no able to relate his rather salty notes.

Ben Bagley said about Lisa "Let me take this opportunity to squelch that oft-quote show biz rumor: Lisa Mordente is not a premature death announcement for Liza Minnelli. It is something else."

Ben on Chita :"...Knowing her to be a woman who has been known to taker her men, as well as her coffee black, I said "AS you sing this, just think of a big stiff purpled hued..." She cut me off and went in the booth and gave me this light hearted an extremley fetching vocals"

Also came up at Monday's dinner was Mr. Stephen Sondheim's decorating choices for his basement. Though we were kind to the many celebs we chatted about.

Mr. Bruce Kimmel is a wonderful and kind gentlemen and so glad I had the opportunity to finally meet him. We actually met at the Saturday night performance of Hairspray. I was about two rows back and over to the side. I got a cancellation ticket that was slated for a tony voter. I saw Bruce sitting alone and went over to introduce myself.

First I had this elaborate charade planned out but as soon as I saw him I forgot all about it. Since he had never met me or knew what I looked like I was going to go over to him and ask him if he was in "The First Nudie Musical" Of course he would have said yes. Then I would have asked him if was Alan Ablew. Of course he would have said no. If he didn't say who he was I would have tried Stephen Nathan and would have proceed to name every other male actor except Bruce. But I guess good sense stopped me.

I was able to take some wonderful photos of the singers with the exception of Rebecca Luker. But I did introduce myself to her and told her I was doing Bruce's personal website and hoped that she and Danny would contribute to it.

Judy Kaye and Allison Fraser were fabulous and out going and I somehow knew that that they would be the way even though I had never met. I was able to get some wonderful video of Judy sing a portion of her songs. But I missed some of the other wonderful takes. I didn't have enough Cds with me to capture the wonderful and out going Allison.

Got to see Brent again. He is so good and he remembered me from our brief meeting in Fort Lauderdale earlier. He is such an incredibly talented individual. I wish I lived in NYC so I could more of his work.

It also turned out Bruce's assistant, Jonathan actually knew each other sort. It took me a while to remember where I knew his name from, but I finally realized it at Joe Allens. It is a small world.

DR Susan Gordon is a wonderful wonderful person and so glad I finally got a chance to meet her. Here's to seeing her again real soon.

I will also like to put my two cents in about Remy. What a wonderful talent young lady she was. DR Craig and Jason and I were in the waiting room when Remy arrived. Craig asked her if she knew who she was singing with she said, "Dorothy Loudon" Craig said that she was ill and that She was replaced by Katherine Helmond. When asked if she knew who she was she said no. Jason said that she was in Who's the Boss? and I added soap. Craig said she wouldn;t know it, But she did!!!! Turns out that Diana Canova was one of her teachers!

I have some wonderful pictures and I hope video to put on the website. I worked on it on the plane home and hopefully I will have it up by the weekend. Still have to get some info.

Well that is it for now. I am sure there is more. Feel free to ask questions.

Posted by Michael Shayne @ 06/03/2003 05:31 PM PST

Oh the fav songs.

Garland: The Man That Got Away. I really think she is at the top of her game here.

Frank Sinatra: I like the early young Sinatra when he was just a band singer for the Dorsey band. He was incredible. Don't have one favorite.

Jack Jones. Sorry but all I know about his singing career is The Theme From The Love Boat.

Tony bennett: I sorta like Two By Two a song cut from Do I Hear a Waltz.

Posted by Michael Shaybe @ 06/03/2003 05:37 PM PST

What's the dirt, Michael?

I'm sure I speak for nobody but myself when I say I'm glad everyone enjoyed going to Joe Allen's, eating at Joe Allen's and spotting so-and-so at Joe Allen's.

BUT what I really want to know is "What are people talking about?" What's the buzz? What Tony dirt is being dished????

Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 06/03/2003 05:44 PM PST

Good luck Craig.

Bruce, NICE REVIEW!

Posted by Jane @ 06/03/2003 05:48 PM PST

~~~~~~~ Good vibes for Craig!!

Now, folks, send some this way to me. I don't like people much today. Or maybe I should just have some chocolate-covered bacon.

Posted by Laura @ 06/03/2003 06:04 PM PST

Isn't it interesting? Not one of us said "Over the Rainbow" for Judy Garland, or "My Way" for Frank Sinatra.

George - Thank you for saying "The Love Boat Theme". That was going to be my choice for favorite Jack Jones song, but since I am still relatively new to the group, I was afraid of being shunned.
Tom of Oz - I am a big fan of JG, but until a few months ago, when I picked up the Carneige Hall CD, I had never owned a single CD either. IMHO Judy, although renowned as a singer, was truly a visual artist. Just sitting and listening to her on a CD causes one to focus on the flaws and the weaknesses of her talent. But, watching her on film, DVD, video, or TV (or live for those that may have had the privilege) captures Judy as the complete performer that she was, erasing any shortcomings she may have had, even in those final years. Instead, it spotlights that certain magical connection that she had only with an audience. Sorry, Tom, I’m not looking for converts, just expressing a thought.

Posted by TCB @ 06/03/2003 06:13 PM PST

Craig - Good vibes to you. And now to Laura, as well.

Posted by TCB @ 06/03/2003 06:19 PM PST

Hello all. It's a beautiful
evening here in Tacoma. I
finished Kritzerland yesterday,
and wrote a review for
amazon, but since it won't be
up for a few days I thought I'd
post it here first.

After finishing Kimmel’s first
novel, Benjamin Kritzer, I
eagerly awaited the second
installment in the series.
Naturally, I was not
disappointed. Far from it, in
fact. Kritzerland picks up right
where BK left off, continuing
the story of Benjamin’s life in
50’s LA.
As Benjamin moves out of
childhood and into the
sometimes frightening, often
befuddling world of
pre-adolescence, readers will
fall even more under the spell
of this precocious young man.
We are privy to a glimpse of
his private world, and it is a
marvelous place. From the
horrors of gym class and the
new lure of the opposite sex,
to the forming of new
friendships, Kimmel paints a
fresh, vivid reminder of the
bewildering world that is junior
high, which apparently was the
same in the 50’s as it was in
the 90’s.
The wacky and wonderful
characters we met in the first
novel are there, as funny as
ever, and new ones are
introduced as young
Benjamin’s world expands
and develops. All of the
characters, both old and new,
are full of fun and color.
Kimmel does a superb job of
bringing the multidimensional
personalities of the characters
to life and making us love
them.
An added benefit to the story is
that one gets a fairly complete
history of American film, told
through Benjamin’s eyes. As
each new movie-making
technique appears on the
scene, readers get a
wonderful idea of the effects it
had, and how movies became
what we know them to be
today.
Anyone who loved Benjamin
Kritzer should read this book
immediately. Anyone who
hasn’t read Benjamin Kritzer
should read them both
immediately. They won’t be
disappointed.

So there you have it. It's such
a wonderful book...everyone
who hasn't yet should order it
post haste :-)

Posted by Ann @ 06/03/2003 07:19 PM PST

Ron:

Re: The Dirt

Didn't want to say anything but we were all talking viciously behind your back.

And BK does a mean Don Knotts imitation!!

Good Luck again Craig

Posted by Michael Shayne @ 06/03/2003 07:23 PM PST

Laura, if you haven't done so, treat yourself to a little piece of chocolate. For heavens sake, leave out the bacon! Hope tomorrow is a better day.

Posted by Jane @ 06/03/2003 07:51 PM PST

Bruce never does a mean impression of me. It's always a nice impression!

Posted by Don Knotts @ 06/03/2003 08:10 PM PST

I'm back from a very long work day...I worked at MTI today and then went to the Met for the ballet. I actually took a nap once I got to the Met 'cause I was there an hour early.

I don't know why I needed that nap, though...I went to bed last night around 10:45, and with the exception of a short bathroom/drink break, I slept straight through to 11:00 this morning. I was a tired puppy!

~~~~~Good vibes to Craig~~~~~

BK--GET SOME SLEEP!!

Faro-la, faro-li!!

Posted by Jason @ 06/03/2003 09:05 PM PST

Life is beautiful Laura.I am sure it is.
And I'm the one who is going to a third funeral in 8 days.
Chocolate is a cure for nearly everything (except for the migraines that come with it).
Happy thoughts to you.

Special thougths are still going out there to Bill and Joe too.

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 06/03/2003 09:18 PM PST

Good vibes to ALL of you, but yes, most especially Criag, Laura, WFO and Little Joe.

Favorite Sinatra song: His recording with Nelson Riddle of "I've Got You Under My Skin"

Jack Jones: "Wives and Lovers"

Tony Bennett: "When Joanna Loved Me"

Judy Garland: So hard to choose. Yes, the versions of the songs sung in the films of "Man Than Got Away" and "Over the Rainbow" are perfect.

Rather than naming all the ones I'd consider, I'll have to go with a version of "Dirty Hands, Dirty Face" that she did on ehr TV show with a spoken section about her son.

I also love her version of "stormy Weather" form the Carnegie Hall album. Talk about terrific acting and singing!
OK, so we're all jealous of your wonderful New York experiences. Are you happy now?!?

Posted by Kerry @ 06/03/2003 09:57 PM PST

Rule No. 5(a) of posting: Proof before you post.

Posted by Kerry @ 06/03/2003 09:58 PM PST

Tom (re: Road to Perdition) -
I thought it was all in all a
decent movie with very strong
performances, but I found it
VERY slow moving and a bit
overly long. Never a good sign
when I find myself looking at
my watch during a movie.

Posted by Jed @ 06/03/2003 10:04 PM PST

Thank you, all. Other people, Grrrr.

Posted by Laura @ 06/03/2003 10:15 PM PST

Don't worry, she doesn't bite.

Posted by . @ 06/03/2003 10:40 PM PST

I might, if you don't hand over the chocolate-covered bacon.

Posted by Laura @ 06/03/2003 11:10 PM PST

DR Tom from Oz: I've never seen Road to Perdition. Not sure who you've got me mixed up with. :)

Posted by Lulu @ 06/04/2003 05:00 AM PST

Good vibes to Laura and Phil.

Michael - thanks for the NYC update!

Is it possible to cram all that fun into just 48 hours AND record vocals for a CD? Obviously....

Posted by Jrand52 @ 06/04/2003 05:34 AM PST

Let's nip this Knotts talk in the bud.

Posted by Barney Fife @ 06/04/2003 05:34 AM PST

Eye-tinerary:

Check the locks on the door at the hardware store, get a soda pop at the gas station, and then go over to Thelma Lou's and watch some tv....

Posted by Barney Fife @ 06/04/2003 05:35 AM PST

Jrand: Has South Pacific opened yet? If not, when's the big day? MAJOR good vibes going out to you and all the cast and crew. ~~> ~~> :)

Posted by Lulu @ 06/04/2003 06:21 AM PST

Thanks, Lulu. We open tomorrow night.

Right now the weather forecast calls for 47 degrees tonight - it's not a dress rehearsal otherwise my Bali Hai girls would be icicles!

Hopefully it will warm up for Thursday. I guess we are ready. I guess we'd better be!

Posted by Jrand52 @ 06/04/2003 06:45 AM PST

Not to take any good vibes AWAY from DR Phil - but sending good vibes to Craig - job wise!

So many posts to read when you don't keep up.

Dave - I loved 8 Women a lot. Uh...make that I loved "8 Women" a lot. 8-D

Posted by Jrand52 @ 06/04/2003 06:47 AM PST

47 degrees???? In June??????

Posted by Laura @ 06/04/2003 07:30 AM PST

LOL, Laura. Yep...that's Indiana for ya! And it might just be in the 90s next week...you just never know! ;)

Posted by Lulu @ 06/04/2003 08:08 AM PST

Jrand: Which 8 women? Names, boy...we want names!

Posted by Lulu @ 06/04/2003 08:09 AM PST

Laura,
Just remember, "Hell is other people."

Posted by Jean-Paul Sartre @ 06/04/2003 08:38 AM PST

(Will try to imagine 47 degrees this afternoon when it will be about 108.)

Posted by Laura @ 06/04/2003 08:44 AM PST

Is that Remy Kazen?

Posted by A Remy fan @ 06/04/2003 08:57 AM PST

DR Laura try to imagine it wearing an outfit like Dorothy Lamour used to wear - then sing Bali Hai in French - stay in your light and don't drop your lei.

Of course poor Marcel the native man has it the worst....he only has a loin cloth.

Posted by Jrand52 @ 06/04/2003 09:00 AM PST

It's about 52 degrees outside right now courtesy of Mother nature's glorious Bay Area air conditioning -- the marine Layer, aka "fog."

It's after 9 a.m. and well past time for BK to have gotten his butt cheeks out of his bed and posted a new day's column!

But....he's all tuckered from his trip, so maybe we can cut him just a little more slack!

Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 06/04/2003 09:03 AM PST