Posted by MusicGuy @ 08/22/2003 07:52 AM PST

Ohhh, "goody goody for our side" .. (a DR Kerry reference).. First post!!

Posted by MusicGuy @ 08/22/2003 07:53 AM PST

First post! Huzzah!

first post dance begins now

Posted by Emily @ 08/22/2003 07:54 AM PST

argh!

I hate you all! :)

all my dance was in vain! sniffle... sigh...

Posted by Emily @ 08/22/2003 07:54 AM PST

Sorry Emily.....but take hold of my waist from behind me, and we'll start a Conga line....

Does anyone Conga anymore (an almost Elaine Stritch reference)

Posted by MusicGuy @ 08/22/2003 07:55 AM PST

Oooohhh..."the red wine with the meat, AND...the white wine with the fish."

Go Desi!!!

Posted by MusiGuy @ 08/22/2003 07:56 AM PST

Got up early...got to work early...hope to put a dent in things and leave early.

Feel worse today....how much worse?

I'll show you gooey and sticky... -- that's how much worse. The whatever-it-is has settled into my chest while still raging through my nasal passages.

My eyes are tearing...I'm sneezing a lot...and woe! unto me and my co-workers if I should run out of tissues!

Happy Friday, everyone!

Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 08/22/2003 07:57 AM PST

CD: I'm rediscovering Songs for a New World which has it's fabulous moments ("I'm Not Afraid of Anything", "Flying Home", "The World Was Dancing") and it's downright embarassing moments ("Steam Train", "River Won't Flow", "1776 the Flagmaker")

DVD: I just received a ten dollar discount from chapters/indigo because they're concerned about my new amazon.ca habit. Maybe if they actually stocked music instead of just saying they did, I'd buy from them too. My discounted purchase is going to be a copy of Chicago for the amazing price of $14 CDN!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ah... cheapness runs deep in my soul :)

Posted by Emily @ 08/22/2003 07:59 AM PST

In my CD player I also have the Hairspray soundtrack.

DR MusicGuy, do you mean Bloomingdale's, where John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale fight over the pair of gloves? I thought that movie was very cute. I have the DVD as well, though right now another movie, The Quiet American, is in the player. Beautiful cinematography, and a lovely performance by Michael Caine.

Happy Friday, all!

Posted by irn @ 08/22/2003 08:04 AM PST

The scariest thing just happened to me. I was asleep on my bed, and as I was beginning to wake up, I was hearing voices at my window. Being semi-concious, I didn't think anything of it. But then I started hearing scratching, and more talking, and it was getting louder, and then dead dlience. It was a wee bit startling, and I whipped around to see 4 Mexican men staring in my window grinning. I screamed, ran over and pulled the blinds down.

The painters came this morning.

In my CD player...The Charlies Angels soundtrack, which makes me laugh very very much. In my DVD player, Lord of the Rings. In my VHS, a hilarious old video of me, my brother, and my sisters playing outside when we were little. I was about 5, and I'm driving my brothers Tonka truck thing, singing "Joy to the World" at the top of my lungs. More like screaming, but there was pitch in there.

I literally got out of bed 10 minutes ago, I think I'm going to go get some coffee.

BTW (by the way in internet lingo) Thank you, and Happy Friday to you too irn.

Feel Better RP :)

Posted by Sarah @ 08/22/2003 08:12 AM PST

Sarah, were those 4 Mexican men your painters, or other passersby who get kicks out of staring into people's windows?

Posted by irn @ 08/22/2003 08:14 AM PST

I would have thought that the "Conga" was a Rosalind Russell reference, or at least a Comden/Green reference...

And I will respectfully disagree with Emily about the SONGS FOR A NEW WORLD. I don't believe that Jason Robert Brown has done anything yet in his career that he needs to be ashamed or embarrased about. Granted, I never saw URBAN COWBOY, but by all accounts his work was the best thing about that show, too.

CD Player(s):
A MAN OF NO IMPORTANCE
I bought this a while ago, when I was in the thick of rehearsing for FOREVER PLAID. I didn't listen to it then, since I was trying to focus on the music from that show. I am just now getting around to giving it a full listen, and there is much to enjoy in the score. Flaherty's melodic gifts seldom fail him, or us, and the story is truly a poignant tale.

AMOUR
I have only heard this once all the way through, but I have found some lovely things in it. Some parts do grow tedious, and Malcolm Gets is out of his depth, but oh...Melissa Errico.

Still waiting for my copy of BROWNSTONE to arrive.

Posted by Dave @ 08/22/2003 08:20 AM PST

Thank you for that lovely image, DR Ron.

Posted by Laura @ 08/22/2003 08:25 AM PST

It's too hot for coffee...erg...so I now have a Diet Coke.

Irn, they were the painters. But I'm pretty sure they were done painting the windowsills in my room a LONG time ago. Pain in the bum.

Posted by Sarah @ 08/22/2003 08:36 AM PST

3 CDs burned especially for the juke box at our wedding reception, also known as the cast party. They start with the only show tune I added to the list, "Love in a Home" from Li'l Abner.

I'm glad BK has emerged from the 2-year hell, but, like the princess in The Apple Tree, "I crave details!" Have we reached a "Now It Can Be Told" point yet where we find out what exactly happened? Has the story been told elsewhere and I've missed it?

Just ran to the post office to send the last of the wedding invitations. Today I must compare my hand-written list of who got sent to with the original list we sent to our graphics person. She did a swell job and I hope to get her work up on a website when it's time to sell the CD.

Now, back to writing the thing. The entire bridesmaids' advice to the bride section now consists of "Act surprised" and "Close your eyes and think of England" but I'm ever hopeful more Hainsies & Kimlets will offer the wisdom they might give at a bridal shower.

Posted by Noel @ 08/22/2003 08:43 AM PST

DR Sarah: Are you home ALONE?

If I were you, I'd call one of my parents and tell them what happened.

Someone needs to have some strong words with their supervisor.

My first major surge of work has been accomplished. Now I'm in a lull awaiting the next batch.

People keep talking to me (imagine that) and when I talk I start coughing, and then hawking....yuck.

You are all welcome for the descriptive imagery. I do so want to share my misery with good company.

: )

Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 08/22/2003 08:44 AM PST

I celebrate Mr BK's liberation and I send DR Ron my sympathy. Sick and work just do not go together.

My new computer is still having a few problems, but I would guess they are OE (operator error) rather than hardware problems. It's like learning to drive a new car, it is.

In my DVD player DOWN MEMORY LANE, a collection of musical sequences from Bollywood films. Very interesting! I am enjoying it very much.

In my CD player PAKEEZAH soundtrack...mostly I play the beautiful song CHALTE CHALTE.

In my VCR - HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING, purchased on Ebay for $6.10 including shpg.

MG - I did not forget the tape I was going to make you ... I may try doing it on my new CD burner, so keep your fingers crossed for me.

Friday at last...

Posted by Jrand52 @ 08/22/2003 08:46 AM PST

DR Panni: How are you doing today? Better?

Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 08/22/2003 08:48 AM PST

I agree with Ron, that is really creepy.

Ron - my sympathies. You sound like me in the springtime, when my allergies kick into high gear.

It's supposed to reach 95 degrees in New York today. Bah humbug!

Posted by irn @ 08/22/2003 08:50 AM PST

No Ron, I'm not home alone, my dad and sisters are here. And I told him and he pretty much just told the guy "Look, I'm sure my wife told you this, but I have 3 daughters in the house, and you can't blame them for being ancy around a group of men in their house. So they'll stay out of your way, and you leave them alone, and we'll all be fine."

And gave him a stern, 'fatherly macho man' look. If that doesn't work, I'll just throw something next time.

Ah yes, I've forgotten to say congratulations to bk for getting rid of his troubles. You should celebrate by dancing the hora, and then writing down how you dance it so I will no longer be confused.

Posted by Sarah @ 08/22/2003 08:52 AM PST

In my DVD player: MY LOUISIANA SKY with screenplay by new DR Panni. It'll be watched either late tonight or sometime this weekend. After MLS will be THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE that I just got yesterday. I love this movie. It's just so much fun.

Otherwise, today I've got the day off from work and will be in Portland, Oregon all day with my family. Tomorrow afternoon I'll be going to a Seattle Storm (women's) basketball game. Other than that, it'll be DVD watching.

Posted by George @ 08/22/2003 08:58 AM PST

And a most hearty congratulations to our very own BK! Life is a journey and you've certainly had your share of adventures along the way.

Posted by George @ 08/22/2003 09:06 AM PST

I must chime in with congratulations to BK as well! Though I think I have missed much of the backstory, moving forward and not dwelling on unpleasantries is always fortuitous. And thank you for being such a gracious and witty host.

Posted by irn @ 08/22/2003 09:09 AM PST

Hey good morning everyone!

I hope everyone is doing well. Me I'm blue. How does one get over being blue?

I am going to try my poutine experiment either tonight or tomorrow. I have the canned poutine sauce. I have the french fries. And I have the cheese curds. I was waiting to find a recipe though, because i was not sure whether to heat the cheese.

The recipe I found just has you heating the sauce. And then you mix the cheese in the sauce until the cheese melts a bit.

We shall see!

I need to go to Walmart to get a new phone. I went a few days ago (to the new Walmart they built after tearing down the old Walmart just feet away from it - don't ask). Anyhow the guy in the phone dept sells me this phone, i'm all happy. And then he realizes he doesn't have anymore. I HATE IT when someone sells you something that they don't even have. Oh well, they left a message yesterday saying it's in. So i can go get it. It had better be good!

Btw, i am very unhappy about Big Brother and the new HOH, and how the veto competition worked. I guess it will be tomorrow's episode.

Jennifer

Posted by Jennifer @ 08/22/2003 09:14 AM PST

Okay something very weird just happened. I previewed my message. But when i went back to try to change something my i couldn't. What on earth did i do?

Posted by Jennifer @ 08/22/2003 09:15 AM PST

Ron, hope you can go home soon and take care of yourself.

Sarah, sorry, I couldn't help laughing, probably because I have had similar experiences and they aren't fun. Do you have shades you can pull down?

Panni, if you are out there, hope you feel better and the transition to college goes great.

I will be leaving soon for Los Angeles but first I had better dry my hair.

Posted by Jane @ 08/22/2003 09:15 AM PST

What a busy day we are all having. Going here and there and doing this and that.

Sarah - que es "ancy"?

And now MusicGuy makes me want to watch THE LONG LONG TRAILER!

Posted by Jrand52 @ 08/22/2003 09:41 AM PST

Welcome, irn. My eyes are playing tricks, but I think eye are en (not eye em) is the name, right?

In the CD player is Sibling Revelry (Ann Hampton Callaway, Liz Callaway), with The Sweetest Sounds now being sung.

I'm still a freshman at this site, but have to agree that it's the pleasantest and most knowledgable group on the Internet. BK - you deserve to shep nachus.

Posted by Dan-in-Toronto @ 08/22/2003 09:45 AM PST

In the "that's what makes
horse racing" mode: I couldn't
stand ANY of Songs for a New
World, and not much of
Parade either, although the
latter had a few things I did
like.

Flaherty is another story
altogether - he's terrific.

Thank you all for your
congrats, even though it wasn't
quite anything to be
congratulated about, other
than I have totally closed that
chapter of my life. I didn't win
anything - I was just finally
able to clear out the residual
problems caused by these
"people" and caused for no
other reason than to give
someone grief and harm who
had never done anything but
create something that was
very special. The short
version, which I always like to
say is, protect yourself at all
costs - I did not and it cost me
the company I created. I could
have carried on with the
lawsuit which was settled last
year - I could have won, I don't
think there was much question
about that. But, when we went
to mediation, the mediator,
who was very good, and who
liked me and understood
totally what was going on and
what had transpired, said to
me wise words - "Yes, you'll
win. The question is, do you
want this in your life for
another two years, and do you
want to spend double what
you've already spent." The
answer was instant - "No, I
don't." So, even though I was
in the right - I walked away.

Posted by bk @ 08/22/2003 09:45 AM PST

Me too, BK.

Posted by Renee @ 08/22/2003 09:58 AM PST

I agree that Flaherty is one of the best composers writing for the stage today. ONCE ON THIS ISLAND is a joy, and RAGTIME is a masterpiece. (Being in the cast of the show right now, and singing his songs, is a delight.) I am also partial to MY FAVORITE YEAR and SEUSSICAL. I think that A MAN OF NO IMPORTANCE has some of Lynn Ahrens' best lyric writing ever. I would love to direct any of the above shows, and in fact I just might, very soon...

I can understand how PARADE might not be everyone's cup of tea, but I'm surprised that BK has such strong distaste for SONGS FOR A NEW WORLD. This seems to be a generational thing. When the show was performed locally last year, the young people loved it, and the older folks didn't. I suspect it's the same all over.

Posted by Dave @ 08/22/2003 10:02 AM PST

BK, we feel the same way about water and Brown. I wonder if we feel the same way about brown water?

So, a more practical question remains. Say I want to purchase a BK-produced album (like the one with Smile songs on it), where's the best place to do so? Where would you prefer I shop, now that the chapter is closed? Should I try to get my fin's worth at a site I used to enjoy?

Posted by Noel @ 08/22/2003 10:07 AM PST

In the CD player --

Have finally gotten around to Betty Buckley's Live at the Donmar, which I am rather liking, in spite of many bad things I had heard about it.

In the DVD player --

I am trying to finish The Great American Songbook but it is too much Feinstein and very boring. Neat film clips though. Next up are Silk Stockings and (I can't believe I have never seen it) Shakespeare in Love.

Posted by Philip Crosby @ 08/22/2003 10:13 AM PST

Another Friday, another report. I'm listening to a CD of organ music played by the celebrated Mr. Lyn Larsen (AKA Music Guy) and after that I will listen to a tape of a cabaret performance by Joan Morris (Lime Jello).

We have the evening free tonight but have no plans to watch anything. We will just relax and see what happens.

I got a haircut this afternoon at lunch and then had a slice of pepperoni pizza and a root beer. I usually don't drink root beer but for some reason when I have pizza, I like a nice, frothy root beer to go with it.

Posted by Ben @ 08/22/2003 10:15 AM PST

I am absolutely thrilled and delighted to be here at work today. Why, you might ask? Because while I am at work I again have access to the world wide web, or more specifically, HHW and all the Dear readers. Since my home computer is still in critical condition, pending resuscitation, I am forced into exile upon leaving work. Now I have had to spend the first hour or two catching up on all the posts that I missed from yesterday.

BK, closing a painful chapter in your life can be, at times, even more rewarding than any legal or monetary victory. My congratulations to you.

Car CD player – “Chicago” soundtrack (to get me in the mood for the DVD)

Home CD player - OBC “Sweeney Todd”

DVD player - “The Music Man” (Preston, Jones) and “Journey to the Center of the Earth (Mason, Boone, Dahl)

VCR - Even more dust.

Posted by TCB @ 08/22/2003 10:23 AM PST

Bk your comments about this here website are echoed by all of us DRs, I am sure! This is a fun place isn't it. And to those who thought that their posts were ignored, I have often felt that way as well, but as I know that I always read the posts of those who thought they are ignored, I figure that mine probably get read as well...we just don't always have time to write comments to them I guess ( I know I don't as I am usually at work reading them!!).

In my VCR: A GUNSMOKE episode guest starring a certain favorite DR who did a few TV shows in her younger days. Also, a comedy film titled NAKED SPACE co-starring a certain someone who makes this here website available to us DRs. I have heard rumors that singer Guy Haines might pop up in it as well, but that is only a rumor.

In my CD player: Peter Cincotti

In my DVD player: A load of budget DVDs that arrived in the mail last week..mostly old poverty row mysteries, but also my first Rocky Jones movie! In betwixt movies I often pop in my Bollywood musical scenes compilation...there are 3 musical scenes that I watch over and over again. As I mentioned before I have become obsessed with Bollywood films...I must have more (and I do have more coming in the mail any day now!)

Posted by MBarnum @ 08/22/2003 10:42 AM PST

Noel - I like amazon.com for
shopping. First off, they
frequently have "used" copies
at really good prices. And
eBay does, too. Footlight and
other stores are good, too.

Sarah - not knowing how to
dance the hora is one of the
keys to dancing the hora

Posted by bk @ 08/22/2003 10:53 AM PST

I can spell antidisestablishmentarianism, yet I can't seem to spell antsy right on the first try.

I am NOW home alone, much to my dismay, and the painters are painting the INSIDE of my house. They're only painting the family room, so its not like they're near me, but I'm still coralled up in my room so I don't have to deal with them. I am getting hungry though, having gotten up too late for breakfast and having missed lunch. I'd go and get something but the family room is connected with the kitchen, and I don't feel like sitting there while they're in the next room. So I suppose I'll wait until dinner. In order to not be bothered, I want to put some loud music on...should it be a musical, rock, country, pop, or 60's?

On a lighter, brighter side, I'm getting through Benjamin Kritzer and loving it. He reminds me of how weird I was when I was little.

Posted by Sarah @ 08/22/2003 10:58 AM PST

We hired a law clerk this week whose last name is Kritzer. I wonder if she is any relation!

Posted by MBarnum @ 08/22/2003 11:02 AM PST

ancy = antsy - Got it!

MBarnum which Bollywood compilation did you buy? I have another we may be watching the same thing.

What GUNSMOKE episode???

TCB isn't JOURNEY TO THE CENTER OF THE EARTH a lot of fun? My only question is...in the special features, I can't tell much difference between the video release footage and the 1998 footage or whatever it is...they look they same to me in the side-by-side-by-Sondheim comparison. And boy - Herrmann's score for JTTCOTE certainly sounds a LOT like his score for MYSTERIOUS ISLAND.

Arlene Dahl - so beautiful - what is your favorite Arlene Dahl performance? I think she is terrific in WOMAN'S WORLD opposite Van Heflin!

Posted by Jrand52 @ 08/22/2003 11:50 AM PST

MUST we have a lull so early?
If one must have a lull
shouldn't it be a late lull? Let's
hear more about what you are
listening to. Or, things like
have you painted your toenails
recently and if so what color.
Or, have four Mexicans painted
your toenails? Or four
Armenians? Who in tarnation
HAS painted your
fershluganah toenails? Have
all the boys on this site had a
pedicure - or have any of them
had a pedicure. I, for example,
have had a pedicure.

Jeans, burgandy polo shirt,
white socks and sneakers.

Now, don't make me tell you
the story of The Randy Vicar
and the Detached Garage.

Posted by bk @ 08/22/2003 11:53 AM PST

Happy Friday, everyone.

Posted by Susan @ 08/22/2003 11:54 AM PST

A pedicure?

Oh my. Not with my dancer's feet!

Posted by Jrand52 @ 08/22/2003 11:54 AM PST

JRand52 the Bollywood compilation that I have currently is one from newer movies..I think it is called Top 10 Bollywood Stars or something like that. I got it off of Ebay for $6. The one coming in the mail I can't recall the title of just now but the scenes are all from the 1960s.

The Gunsmoke episode is titled (I think) LITTLE GIRL...and you, JRand52, will of course be getting a copy of it if all goes well! And so will a little girl who is now the mother of a den.

Ok it is now 12:02 pm and I am officially starting my weekend! Hurray and huzzah!

Posted by MBarnum @ 08/22/2003 12:01 PM PST

I am not a boy, but I still have never had a pedicure. I hear it gives one toes of steel.

Perhaps the lull is due to the oppressive heat we are having in the northeast, and our DRs lucky enough to have pools are swimming in them. Or maybe I'm just projecting cause I don't have a pool.

I want to hear the story about the randy vicar and the detached garage!

Posted by I-R-N (for Dan :) @ 08/22/2003 12:07 PM PST

My toenails are hot pink. And I didn't do it myself, I got a pedicure. If more people got manicures/pedicures, the world would be a happier place.

I'm listening to "Heaven Must Be Missing an Angel", and I'm rocking out to it. Yes, it can be rocked out to. And before this, I listened to "Baby Got Back", because that is one of the funniest and most annoying songs I have with me, and I felt that the 4 Mexicans needed some annoyment for what they did.

Dark blue jeans, and a shirt that I got at the United We Stand concert after 9-11. It's got all of the permormers listed on it, which gets annoying, because people will stop me, straighten out the back of my shirt, and read. I don't wear it too often.

Posted by Sarah @ 08/22/2003 12:11 PM PST

Welcome to DR Irn! And I think I missed a new DR! Sorry!

DR Susan did you send me your music want list? It is lost in the ethernet if you did.

Do you suppose the Ethernet is related to the Ethelnet?

AND - there is a special on the company Desilu that will be broadcast on Bravo on Sunday evening. I can hardly wait. And even though everyone is posting sparkling and informative posts, I miss DR's Jason and Don! Is their theatre air-conditioned?

Posted by Jrand52 @ 08/22/2003 12:25 PM PST

Sarah,

Why aren't you outside? It's the middle of summer, with school fast approaching. Now is the time to enjoy the outdoors! Those of us who are stuck indoors because of work are insisting that those who can get outdoors should not waste the opportunity. Go for a walk, ride a bike, go for a swim, climb a tree, go roller-blading...whatever. Just get thee outside. Then rush right back and tell us all about it. We need to live vicariously though you. ;-(

And BTW, Sarah...they aren't looking at your shirt. ;-)

Baby got back, indeed.

Posted by Dave @ 08/22/2003 12:27 PM PST

BK--congratulations on having moved past all the bad stuff! This really is something for you to celebrate, I think, so I suggest that regardless of how well one can dance the hora, we all try to dance it anyway in your honor. And those who trip over themselves dancing the hora can do the Dance of the Seven Veils :)

Sarah--Quelle horreur about those Mexicans! One Mexican (or Armenian or Eskimo or any man) staring into your bedroom window would have been scary enough, but you poor dear, you had four of them!

I have to confess that while I admire Jason Robert Brown as a gifted songwriter, I prefer Ahrens and Flaherty who to my mind are more melodic and versatile. Emily, please don't hate me! ;)

CD player--a mix of Diana Krall songs

DVD--the last thing I saw on DVD was The Pillow Book which was, uh, interesting....

VHS--Breakfast at Tiffany's. I loved it! Audrey Hepburn was so sweet and vulnerable and funny and heart-breaking.

*Goes off singing Moon River*

Posted by Maya @ 08/22/2003 12:29 PM PST

Speaking of Ethelnet (wonderful idea, Jrand!), I haven't been able to bring myself to buy the new Gypsy. I thought Bernie was swell, yes, but I have such an attachment to my Merman OCR. I think that's the only Gypsy I need and I can listen to it over and over again. :)

Posted by Maya @ 08/22/2003 12:31 PM PST

I had a project I had to finish at work first, thus the late posting.

BK - If you get a pedicure does that make you a metrosexual?

Nobody mentioned this, but the Kander/Ebb THE VISIT with Chita has been cancelled at Joe Papp's. The people who were going to back it and then move it to a commercial run backed out and they don't have the funds to do it without them.

Re: JRB's PARADE. One of the main reasons I liked this show is that it was a mixture of newer modern music with traditional show music and it contained dialogue instead of being through-sung.

Questions based on above posts:
Music Guy: Is there another new BABES IN ARMS recording out? I have the one from the early ninties with Judith Blazer, the Encores with Melissa Rain Anderson and the movie with Judy and Mickey on CD and the Mary Martin on LP. Who is on the new one?

irn: I've always enjoyed the soundtrack of HAIRSPRAY with it's authentic records of the period. You should also get the Original Broadway Cast album which has an all new score written for the show.

Nothing is in my CD or DVD since I am going to be picking up all the new releases that came out this week. Can't they spread these out a little?

Posted by William E. Lurie @ 08/22/2003 12:38 PM PST

Maya, would that dance of the seven veils include zippers? (Only those who have seen/heard A MAN OF NO IMPORTANCE will get that joke...)

re: Flaherty vs. Brown....I wouldn't want to turn this into a competition between the two songwriters, as I admire them both and feel they are the best of the bunch. I feel they are both equally adept with a melody. As for Flaherty being more versatile....well, he has been around longer, so he has had more opportunity to adopt different styles for each of his scores. Brown has only really had one Broadway and one off-Broadway show to his credit. (SONGS FOR A NEW WORLD doesn't really count, since it was a revue, and he only wrote a few songs for URBAN COWBOY, which most of us have probably never heard...and probably never will.) I'll be eager to hear what he comes up with next.

Oh, and Sarah: shouldn't that be "antsy-disestablishmentarianism"?

Posted by Dave @ 08/22/2003 12:41 PM PST

Dave...I'm going to pretend I didn't read that and keep thikning that they're reading my shirt. I don't need people looking at my derriere on top of these Mexican men, who have now joined together with more and are a merry party of eight.

And I can't go outside until my Dad gets home from his errands, because I can't leave the painters here alone. Not that I'm doing anything really, except giving them an evil eye on occasion, but I don't think I need to worry.

Maya: Thank you for your sympathies :) I need to focus my attentions away from these men and onto someone...I mean someWHERE else...you know what I mean.

I have the slight feeling that my friends are throwing a surprise birthday party for me tonight. I'm not going into detail because I don't want to jinx it, and I don't want to get my hopes up, but yes, I have an inkling that tonight will be full of surprises.

I just got a phone call from my brother who is at OzzFest, and he insisted that I sit through an Ozzy Osbourne song, listening through the phone. That man should not be allowed to perform in front of living things. But my brother is happy, so I am happy.

Posted by Sarah @ 08/22/2003 12:46 PM PST

Dave--of course the veils will have zippers! (Loved AMONI, btw) So those who opt for the Dance of the Seven Veils can sing "Zip" as the veils go flying!

Posted by Maya @ 08/22/2003 12:47 PM PST

Actually, now that I think about it, Maya, you don't know what I'm talking about...at least I don't think you do :) So never mind, sorry if I confused you.

Posted by Sarah @ 08/22/2003 12:49 PM PST

Sarah--think nothing of it. I didn't feel confused before, but now I am a little, lol.

"That man should not be allowed to perform in front of living things."--lmao, that was inspired!

Posted by Maya @ 08/22/2003 12:50 PM PST

Hello, all. DR Sandra and I have been enjoying a relatively cool Arizona morning at the zoo.

Something loud in the car cd player today, probably, as DS (Dear Son in internet lingo) has my car today.

Posted by Laura @ 08/22/2003 12:58 PM PST

Sarah, did you really mean to say:

"I don't need people looking at my derriere on top of these Mexican men..."

I don't think anyone needs that, really. ;-)

Posted by Dave @ 08/22/2003 01:01 PM PST

Laura, is Sandra still considering a career in zoology?

Posted by Dave @ 08/22/2003 01:02 PM PST

Dave, we're quite the little funny-man today, aren't we?

I'm just kiddin with ya ;)

And I did say that, although I think a better version of what I meant would have been "I don't need people looking t my derriere while I have to deal with these Mexican men..."

But YOU knew that, right?

Posted by Sarah @ 08/22/2003 01:05 PM PST

To: DR Maya
Re:

Posted by Jrand52 @ 08/22/2003 01:10 PM PST

I would think it wouldn't matter whether it was one Mexican or a dozen...surely it depends upon the Mexican!

Or the Latvian, or Armenian, or Arab, or Frenchman, or Netherlander (Dutchman), or whomever.

It's the idea of them peeking that's irksome, not their nationality (surely).

Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 08/22/2003 01:11 PM PST

To: DR Maya
Re: The Pillow Book

Why do you think Braille was invented?

DR WEL - you think it's bad this week, wait until Tuesday, August 26 (natal day of moi and DR Jose) - that day brings the release (Oh the Irony!) of four MGM Midnite Movie DVD's and Karloff's "The Ghoul"!!

Followed on September 2 by TITANIC (previously discussed) and WHERE EAGLES DARE!!!!

Posted by Jrand52 @ 08/22/2003 01:12 PM PST

JRand---
Are any of the four Midnight Movies with our Den Mother? I know the release of Puppet People is in that series.

Posted by William E. Lurie @ 08/22/2003 01:16 PM PST

Jrand--Braille?? Hahahaha...that was good!

That movie did teach me how to say breasts in Yiddish...brusten!

Posted by Maya (who is half-Mexican) :) @ 08/22/2003 01:18 PM PST

DR Ron Pulliam: It wouldn't matter if they were brown purple, yellow, green, red, orange, or fuschia. It is entirely the peeking that irked me. I was merely calling them the Mexicans because there are other painters who are American here, and they're being much more respectful of myself and the rest of my family. I'm not sure if it's becaue they know I can yell at them and they can't pretend to not speak English, or simply because they have better manners, but I meant no harm to Mexican people in general. You make great music, clothing, and food :)

Posted by Sarah @ 08/22/2003 01:19 PM PST

Finished up my 6th season
with my summer stock
company last night, having
done about 125 performances
or so over that time in 10
productions. There's still
another week of shows, but
my contract let me out of the
last week in anticipation of my
having a job to be moving
away to. Looks like it may just
turn out to be a week off.

Media check...
DVD - empty
VCR - last night's Amazing
Race episode
CDs - Shenandoah (OBC)
Anyone Can Whistle (concert)
Me First & the Gimme
Gimmes compilation

Have a feeling I'll stick "Clue"
in the VCR later on. There's a
Madeline Kahn episode of
SNL on, and it's put me in the
mood for a Kahn-fest. May
have to rent some of her
others for this evening.

Posted by Jed @ 08/22/2003 01:21 PM PST

Having eight Mexican painters
painting your home is a perfect
time to finish reading a book,
don't you think, Swishy Sarah?

Glad WEL has shown up - I
was quite certain he was off
having a pedicure.

I am not a metrosexual. I am a
what is it, fishsexual.

Posted by bk @ 08/22/2003 01:23 PM PST

Does anyone know if THE ROSE --- the Bette Midler/Janice Joplin film --- which was scheduled for DVD release this week has actually been released? I have seen no reviews, no ads, nothing in "new this week" listings, etc. This was such an unusual film for Bette and she was wonderful in it. In fact she has never been that good in a movie since.

Posted by William E. Lurie @ 08/22/2003 01:28 PM PST

Hey, leave us fishsexuals alone!

Posted by Troy McClure @ 08/22/2003 01:31 PM PST

Sarah - Do you know who you need to call to get four men to come out to your house and watch you in bed?

Posted by TCB @ 08/22/2003 01:42 PM PST

I had The Rose in my hands
yesterday, at a used DVD store
I frequent. But I ended up not
getting it because the price
was too high, even used. So,
it's out or coming out.

I did watch Night of the
Following Day - a thoroughly
strange guilty pleasure of
mine. Marlon Brando, Rita
Moreno, Richard Boone and
the impossibly cute Pamela
Franklin. It's directed by the
impossibly strange Hubert
Cornfield, who made another
guilty pleasure - Pressure
Point. It's as if they were all on
drugs making this "thriller" -
it's a total mood-piece with
everyone, especially Brando
and Moreno, improvising up a
storm - some of their improvs
are so risible they are
groan-inducing. And yet, the
film looks great, has a terrific
score by Stanley Myers and is
just hypnotic. I saw it the day it
opened in 1969, when I was
living in Brooklyn. The last
time I saw it was at a
screening a few years ago,
with Mr. Cornfield present.

I also got a movie called
ffolkes, with Roger Moore, and
after ten minutes I have
already ascertained that it is
one of the worst movies ever
made.

Posted by bk @ 08/22/2003 01:49 PM PST

A draft of the Mother-In-Law song is now complete. I can't complain of no progress this week.

But I'm very confused by these posts: Is Maya one of the eight Mexicans Sarah has piled on top of? And does that leave only American painters to look at her derriere?

Riddle: What did Marlon Brando yell when asked to name his favorite American painter?

Stella!!!

Posted by Noel @ 08/22/2003 01:51 PM PST

Noel--no, sorry to disappoint you. I am not one of the "eight Mexicans Sarah has piled on top of" I only let people pile on top of me if they ask me nicely :)

That didn't sound right, did it?

Posted by Maya @ 08/22/2003 01:59 PM PST

TCB, do I WANT to know who to call?

Noel: Neither Maya nor I have the slightest idea as to what on Earth you are talking about. Enlighten us, please?

Posted by Sarah @ 08/22/2003 02:00 PM PST

A quick pre 7.00 am post.
DVD: "Chicago"
VCR the 1930's version of "Good Companions"
(Is the musical ever staged in the USA?
CDs. Pet Shop Boys "Alternative PSB"
"Classic Touch" James Last
"The Boy From OZ" Cast album

All left over from yesterday - a touch early for anything at present!

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 08/22/2003 02:03 PM PST

Media check:

VHS - THE GLASS KEY

CD - SATINS AND SPURS (with Betty Hutton)

DVD - ROCKY AND BULLWINKLE AND FRIENDS - Season 1.

Posted by Matt H. @ 08/22/2003 02:10 PM PST

Noel wrote:

"Is Maya one of the eight Mexicans Sarah has piled on top of?"

Please don't dangle that preposition so close to Sarah's derriere.

If I am in a giddy mood today, it's because I have been working on a project at work that has been a thorn in my side for months, and because of the progress I have made today, there is finally light at the end of the tunnel!

Woo-hoo!

Posted by Dave @ 08/22/2003 02:12 PM PST

Sarah, you could find out who to call for me. Lately, I can't even get one guy to come over and watch me in bed.

Posted by TCB @ 08/22/2003 02:13 PM PST

It took me a few minutes to remember it was still Friday in some parts of the world. I expected not to hear from TCB. But of course he is at work and it is only Saturday here in Oz and NZ.
WEL: If only some one will record those "possibly to be lost" Kander & Ebb scores.

Hope td also gets to drop by.

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 08/22/2003 02:13 PM PST

CDs:
The Maury Yeston Songbook
Under the Stars (Bryn Terferl & Renee Fleming)
Tap Your Troubles Away - The Words and Music of Jerry Herman (Historic All-Star Tribute)

DVDs
Chicago
All That Jazz
and various dvds from my collection as I try out my new tv

Posted by Michael @ 08/22/2003 02:22 PM PST

Michael, I think you should have a party to celebrate your new TV and we can all fly in and watch DVDs......... BYOB, of course.

Posted by TCB @ 08/22/2003 02:25 PM PST

Nancy LaMott & Kerry Buttler

I just read so wonderful news about one of my favorite singers the late Nancy LaMott. David Friedman will now be able to release new cds.

Click on my name for the full article.

Also continue reading for an interview with Kerry Butler

Posted by Michael @ 08/22/2003 02:27 PM PST

It's getting rather randy around
here, isn't it? And just why is
no one speaking of MY butt
cheeks, which are buff and
toned? THAT is the real
question.

Swishy, pay them no mind -
you just read your book.

Posted by bk @ 08/22/2003 02:27 PM PST

TCB:

BYOB: Bring Your Own Boyfriend?

Posted by Michael @ 08/22/2003 02:28 PM PST

That would work.

Posted by TCB @ 08/22/2003 02:29 PM PST

I certainly hope that BYOB is not referring to beer, there are still underagies here at HHW, TCB!

Posted by Sarah @ 08/22/2003 02:29 PM PST

...says the girl who asked Jay for a stiff bourbon last night...

Posted by Sarah @ 08/22/2003 02:33 PM PST

What an interesting olio of posts and thoughts today.......

DR irn -- first, would you mind doing a little "roll call" description of yourself for all of us? It gives a sense of who we are responding to....you know, name, approx. age, city, occupation, gender, etc...

When I referenced the movie Serendipity, I wasn't talking about them shopping at Bloomie's, but rather when they were having deserts at the little ice cream shop named "Serendipity." It is a real place, and we went there recently.

DR Ben -- Oh, you studly Dangermouse you....thank you for the kind words about listening to my CD (blush).

DR WEL -- I'm afraid you'll have to ask DR Kerry which version of "Babes in Arms" it is that we have. I just know that it is a modern large orchestra playing from the original orchestrations...and it is FABULOUS!

DR Jrand -- Be careful not to let "the dinner sequence" and its song by Desi get started in your head...it can stay there for days!

DR Ron -- I hope you feel better very soon....try chicken soup and prayer and vitamin C. None of them can be proved to help....but they can't hurt!

DR Paulie -- Hi there; I was wondering if you could also post a "roll call" for all of us to read. Welcome!

And to dear sweet Susan.....I shall follow up with a post soon, regarding some interesting bio research I did about you, and some rather glowing things which were said about you. Also...along the lines of the game "six degrees of Kevin Bacon", did you know that you already were destined to be a friend of mine, with only 2 degrees of separation, ?? All will be revealed.

Posted by MusicGuy @ 08/22/2003 02:37 PM PST

Bratwurst, Sarah, bratwurst

Posted by TCB @ 08/22/2003 02:38 PM PST

So Sarah did you get a stiff one last night?

Posted by Just Asking? @ 08/22/2003 02:39 PM PST

My boyfriend is more than willing to make the trip Michael. Thanks. Now for some more magical wishes - where can I find a pumpkin at this time of the morning?

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 08/22/2003 02:40 PM PST

Where I come from, BYOB means 'bring your own bottle'. What you put in the bottle is up to you. Considering the company I work for is the second largest producer of spirits in the world, I won't have a problem with providing for those who wish to partake. And for those too young to partake, we also own Baskin Robbins and Dunkin Donuts!

Posted by Dave @ 08/22/2003 02:40 PM PST

Dear swarthy, esteemed, virile, and sinewy BK,

AAWWW, sorry boo-boo.....no one meant that your glorious butt cheeks should go unnoticed, so I hereby send them a well placed pat. Thwack. My, they are toned and buff!

Look, I know I ain't Leslie Parrish, but my heart's in the right place.

Posted by MusicGuy @ 08/22/2003 02:40 PM PST

TCB,

I like to watch.

Posted by Chauncey Gardner @ 08/22/2003 02:40 PM PST

No, Bill - no DR Susan movies in the latest batch.

These are double features including:
The Raven/Comedy of Terrors
Haunted Palace/Tower of London
Countess Dracula/Vampire Lovers

Early 1960's Vincent Price, etc, and all drive in favorites of mine, my brothers, and my friends!

Posted by Jrand52 @ 08/22/2003 02:42 PM PST

Ohhhhhh, that could be taken so many ways. No, I did NOT get a stiff one last night.

Bratwurst...riiiight. Haha, has anyone seen "10 Things I Hate About You"? Bratwurst...

Mymy, aren't we in sick moods today.

Posted by Sarah @ 08/22/2003 02:44 PM PST

"10 Things I Hate About You" was filmed about two miles from here, and yes it is a real high school.

Dave, how would you manage to get those damn donuts into those bottles?

Posted by TCB @ 08/22/2003 02:48 PM PST

OK ALL THOSE THAT CAN MAKE IT TOMORROW NIGHT THERE WILL BE A PARTY AT MY PLACE!

Posted by The Party (Peter Sellers) @ 08/22/2003 02:51 PM PST

And Oh BYOB

Posted by The Party @ 08/22/2003 02:51 PM PST

But my party will be wilder!

Posted by Mandy @ 08/22/2003 02:52 PM PST

TCB--

I'll watch you through the window.

Posted by Stella Dallas @ 08/22/2003 02:57 PM PST

It's not a party without me - see ya there!

Posted by Rusty Trawler @ 08/22/2003 03:02 PM PST

If you bring your own boyfriend, do you have to leave with him?
Maybe it's bring your OLD boyfriend.

Posted by Jrand52 @ 08/22/2003 03:03 PM PST

I have an extra bedroom for such occassions

Posted by The Party Man @ 08/22/2003 03:09 PM PST

DRs IRN and Paulie (and any other newbies I've missed), WELCOME!

DR Sarah, I hope you are wearing something other than your swishy shorts while you are alone in the house with the painters. A little decorum, please.

DR TCB, a very Happy Birthday tomorrow!

DRs Panni and Ron, I hope you are both feeling better today.

DR MBarnum, the Den Mother thanks you muchly.

DR JRand, I haven't sent my music wish list yet. Where do I begin? Perhaps you can e me some recommendations?

DR WEL, thank you, the package has arrived.

DR MusicGuy, how intriguing your post is! What is/are the "six degrees of Kevin Bacon"? How long must I remain in suspense?

Posted by Susan @ 08/22/2003 03:11 PM PST

MusicGuy - my butt cheeks say
"thank you" (no mean feat).

My goodness, it's getting a
little randy around here -
perhaps I should tell the story
of The Randy Vicar and the
Veal Oscar

Posted by bk @ 08/22/2003 03:16 PM PST

Susan, fear not, I'm wearing the low-rise-boot-cut-long-and-lean jeans from the Gap which make your butt look excellent, and a purple teeshirt and boots.

Now I'm DEFINETLY sure that my friends are throwing me a surprise party. A friend of mine just IMed me and we were talking about our plans for tonight, and he says "Yeah...I'm going over a friends house...for a...party-type thing...a special party. See you later Sarah! Well, I mean, not tonight, of course, why would I see you tonight. Not tonight. Bye!"

And he was not mentioned on the guest list of people going to the "movies". SO I think I'm having a party tonight. Time to pull out the acting chops and act surprised.

Not that I don't really like the idea of a surprise party, but I really wanted to go see Pirates of the Caribbean again :-). Oh well, next week.

Posted by Sarah @ 08/22/2003 03:20 PM PST

DR Sarah, have a grand time at your (shhhhhhh!) surprise party tonite! Does that mean today is your birthday? Well, if not today, then it must be soon. I know you've told us the date, but I'm terrible at remembering such things. So . . . Happy Birthday!

Posted by The Den Mother @ 08/22/2003 03:26 PM PST

Thank you plenty, DR Susan. No, today is not my birthday, that would be next Sunday, the day upon which I get to go see the Thoroughly Modern Millie tour, and meet Juliana, Darcie, Bradley, etc., all with my parents and Aly, who should be here to pick me up at any minute. Should be an interesting birthday.

I wonder if they're throwing the party or not...I don't want to get my hopes up...hmmm

Ah well Aly is here, so I must leave you. I'll update later on.

Posted by Sarah @ 08/22/2003 03:49 PM PST

Maya: I hate you.

jk :)

Sarah: have a great time at your sot-so-surprise party ce soir! Don't forget to raise your eyebrows when you say: "pour moi? oh you shouldn't have!"

Posted by Emily (JRB's missionary to the world) @ 08/22/2003 03:55 PM PST

"not-so-suprise" should of course read "not-so-surprise"

dang keyboard... why can't it just write what I think?!? :)

Posted by Emily @ 08/22/2003 03:56 PM PST

Greetings from Sydney!

Greetings from The Land of Oz!

Greetings from The Land of Tom from OZ!

I'm at the Sydney airport waiting for yet one more flight - to Gold Coast. Then it's party time!

The flight from LAX to SYD was 14 1/2 hours. Now, on paper that looks long. In the air, it is very loooooooooooong! It was kind of scary/weird waking up from my nap/night's sleep, and realzing that there were still seven more hours to go in the flight.

However, the flight was wonderful. I gotta say, now I know what all the fus is about Business Class - I can't wait to try First Class now. I'll share more details when I'm not so pressed for time, but I did make some good progress through "Kritzerland", and I finally got to see "Bend It Like Beckham" on my little, personal movie/video screen which popped out of the side of my seat!

Very Cool! I kept thinking the whole trip was Very Cool, and all the little perks and bells and whistles were Very Cool!

Well, I need to get some other e-mailing done. I'll catch up tonight when I finally get to my hotel.

*Just what time is it in the States now? What day is it?!?!?

;-)

Posted by Jose C. Simbulan @ 08/22/2003 04:21 PM PST

DR Jose in the Land of OZ, in the Land of Tom from OZ, how exciting it is to hear from you. So nice to know that you haven't forgotten us. Have a wonderful trip!

Posted by The Den Mother @ 08/22/2003 04:28 PM PST

DR Jose in the Land of OZ, in the Land of Tom from OZ, how exciting it is to hear from you. So nice to know that you haven't forgotten us. Have a wonderful trip!

Posted by The Den Mother @ 08/22/2003 04:28 PM PST

Sarah--have a good time at the party! No stiff ones ;) Alcoholically speaking, of course.

Emily--*Sob, sniffle* I like some of JRB's stuff, really! But I guess there's no getting around that I'm just an A&F gal. And also an A&W girl. I love root beer!

BK--boy, that Randy Vicar does get around. Is there a Disapproving Vicaress in the picture at all?

Posted by Maya @ 08/22/2003 04:36 PM PST

Jose has arrived down under!

Jed don't forget WHAT'S UP DOC!!!

Posted by Jrand52 @ 08/22/2003 04:40 PM PST

Well, I've had a lovely, lively conversation with JOHN, my computer guy, actually, he is a "Network Engineer." He believes that I have a "hardware" problem, something which should take no time in flattening out. (All you dear readers may read into that what you may). If my problems persist over the weekend, he wants me to bring it on over to the office on Monday where he will poke and prod it until he comes up satisfied. Lord knows, if John is satisfied, I will be too. He hopes that we can work it out enough to make it last through December, but if not, he'll set me up cheaply and efficiently with all the hard and software that I need.

Say BK, did the Randy Vicar ever encounter a Network Engineer?

Media Check:
VCR(s): My Jolie cabaret, which I am copying for a couple of dear readers; to be followed by my "Dreamers" cabaret for those same dear readers. (also, blank tapes, needless to say).

LASERDISC PLAYER: HELLO, DOLLY!
DVD PLAYER: HELLO, DOLLY! (someone posted on a far less interesting board that an alternate take is used in the titular number, so I'm doing my research).
THE ROBBIE WILLIAMS SHOW: brand new concert taped at Shepperton Studios (!) with Robbie in rare form, singing old stuff, swingin' the standards and premiering new tunes from his "Escapology" album.
CHICAGO: Has anyone else enjoyed listening to Rob Marshall and Bill Condon's audio commentary as much as I have?
DAREDEVIL: maybe this time I'll make it through the film. It's disappointing (think Blind Batman), but the disc itself is reference quality..
BAND OF BROTHERS: disc three of six.

CD PLAYER:
A belated b'day gift from Down Under: David Campbell's HOPE (the single with two other tracks) autographed by the man himself, who happens to share my b'day.
Six - count 'em - Nancy LaMott cds which I am copying for a dear reader.
GYPSY: the new Broadway recording.
URINETOWN: I love it!
Patty Duke: Sings Valley of the Dolls and more. . .yeah, sing is not the operative word.
DANCE OF THE VAMPIRES.

Posted by td @ 08/22/2003 04:43 PM PST

TD, you are an absolute prince! Welcome back!

*Gives the most purely innocent and sweet hug* :)

Posted by Maya @ 08/22/2003 04:46 PM PST

Of course they've reviewed me online!

Posted by Bette Midler @ 08/22/2003 04:47 PM PST

Hi td. Is JOHN a fan of dates and figs?
Re the Cambell single. I just asked "Why?". Do you have the Cast album of "Shout"?

Is a Computer guy much the same as a Virtual friend/lover? All this new technology is beyond me. Should I be out shopping for a Computer Guy? Has your fondness for "AI" gone a step further?

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 08/22/2003 04:57 PM PST

Just had a lovely visit with our
very own Mr. Mark Bakalor,
who came to visit me at work.

We spoke of many things, of
cabbages and kings and
cucumbers and queens. We
spoke of doing some rad new
things for the site.

Posted by bk @ 08/22/2003 05:02 PM PST

Whether it's rad, dad, or trad, dad, we are mad for new things!

Posted by Jrand52 @ 08/22/2003 05:10 PM PST

Dear DR WEL: Yes, The Rose is out on DVD, with commentary by director Mark Rydell. And it's not pricy at all. Der Brucer got it at DVD Planet for just $10.50.

It was all part of our long-planned raid on the DVD Planet outlet store, in Orange County. (They can also be reached on-line at DVDPlanet.com.) In spite of all our planning, the raid turned into a contest as we matched each other's selections with something comparable. Therefor, his selection of The Rose was matched by my selection of All That Jazz, my pick of Silk Stockings by his of Thoroughly Modern Millie. For my guilty pleasure Casino Royale, he found House of Wax, to match his classic Giant I found Casablanca.

Passion vied with Amadeus, Paper Moon joined in a Madeline Kahn fest with What's Up Doc? The Private Life of Sherlock Holmes was matched by The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp, Chicago danced with Hello, Dolly!

Even our picks for television series matched against each other, with his The Dead Zone, Season One connecting with my similar first season of Rocky & Bullwinkle & Friends. (The connection is a little obsure, but in the opening credits, Bullwinkle is signing autographs as John Smith "because Bullwinkle is hard to spell.")

The net result is a lot of DVD watching at our house. This will, however, be our last DVD raid until after our move to Delaware, not that there aren't advantages in the move. On-line ordering should be cheaper, because Delaware doesn't charge sales tax!

Posted by S. Woody White @ 08/22/2003 05:28 PM PST

Happy Friday! Long day at work at the pharmacy. Got my paycheck though! Almost $200. Not bad for a $6 bucks an hour part-timer.

I haven't bought the new GYPSY recording and I'm not sure if I'm going to. I'm younger, and a Bernadette fan. But like BK says, she's no match for Merman. The Merman GYPSY recording was one of the first musical CD's I ever bought and it is still on the top of The Stack! The Stack is the ridiculously high tower of CD's in my room. No fancy case or anything, just a tall stack.

DR Ron Pulliam: I believe I'm getting what you're getting. Even in the early stages, I can tell it is not going to be fun. :(

DR irn, my fellow newbie: I also recently rediscovered Songs for a New World. I've always loved the opening number, mostly because of the brilliant harmonies. "Just One Step" never ceases to crack me up and "I'm Not Afraid of Anything" always sticks with me. Generally, I love JRB. I'm playing Jamie in L5Y at an Arlingon, VA school this upcoming spring. Huzzah!

DR Jose in Sydney, in The Land of Oz, in the Land of Tom from Oz: glad you made it to the other side of the world safely! The Washington area wishes you a wonderful while in the world of wallabies!

DR Sarah: you can always act surprised, yes? That makes it more fun for everyone there. I'm bringing the keg... oh wait! What party? What keg? Maybe you haven't been corrupted yet... ;)

DR td: I don't think I'll be able to watch CHICAGO again unless the commentary is on. I loved the movie, but love it less and less each subsequent viewing. I also love URINETOWN! Got to see the original cast.

DR Susan and DR MusicGuy: Thanks for the welcomes! Truly the best online forum, this is. What am I, Yoda all of a sudden?

DVD player-- Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers. Not sure when it comes out, but I take pleasure in the fact that people have been waiting months to get it and I have it early. Another advantage to working at Rite Aid.

CD player-- Baz Luhrmann's La Boheme. It's in my car stereo. I think I'm the only person my age who would ever listen to opera in his car. I hope so, anyway.

VHS-- Broadway's Lost Treasures. I still enjoy it, especially Jerry Orbach and the 42ND STREET number.

It isn't quite media, but I think we should say what we're reading, too! I'm reading Lord of the Flies for summer reading. Also, my perusal copy of YOU'RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN... the wonderful revised version. I'm directing and co-producing it at my school this fall. All this talk of this Kritzer character is making me think I should invest in to the writings of BK.

Posted by Paulie @ 08/22/2003 05:37 PM PST

Paulie--that's great you're going to play Jamie in L5Y!
I saw the show in its short run and despite the weird set, I enjoyed it quite a bit.

I have the exact same feeling with the new Gypsy CD. I love Bernadette too, but for me Merman is always and forever Mama Rose. It's a sentimental thing :)....

Posted by Maya @ 08/22/2003 05:48 PM PST

If I had a car at your age, Dear Reader Paulie, I would have listened to opera in it.

Posted by Jay @ 08/22/2003 05:51 PM PST

DR Paulie: did I ever give you the big, ole td WELCOME to HHW? If I didn't, it would be unseemly of me NOT to do it now.

WELCOME PAULIE!

DR Tom from Oz, one can only hope that John is into figs and dates and all the dating that figs do. . .

Oh, and back to DR Paulie: Oh, the joys of having those dvds ahead of time! I've had Academy Screeners of both CHICAGO and LotR:TTT for months! Ironically, there really isn't that much difference in the dvds of CHICAGO (both are ananmorphic widescreen and with DD and DTS soundtracks), but only the *true* issue has the commentary and the special features. LotR:TTT, however, isn't enhanced for widescreen tvs (on the screener) but it has allowed me to revisit and refamiliarize myself with the characters and the setpieces; when I get the real dvd tomorrow (good retail dealer who gets me my stuff early) I can go immediately to the Commentary Tracks. . .

DR Maya: Maybe it's because I'm an angel that I dance like the wind. . .

Posted by td @ 08/22/2003 06:35 PM PST

Welcome, Paulie. (Your Yoda line cracked me up.)

Posted by Dan-in-Toronto @ 08/22/2003 06:48 PM PST

Paulie, I think i'd play opera in my car, but again - no car. Too expensive. And I haven't actually learnt to drive one. With any luck I won't.

Okay..

CD: This morning i've had in "New York Rock" (the Yoko Ono musical), and Hairspray. Also an honourable mention goes to Broadway Bound, seeing me through basically the entire week.

I'm about due for some new CDs, but i'm torn between buying ones that I want and rebuying those that were stolen with my Discman... I'm missing A New Brain and Falsettos terribly.

DVD: It was a while ago now, but the last DVD I had time to watch was Daredevil. It made me lament for Burton's Batman films. Gosh, I think I even lamented the camp 1960/50s Batman film.

Posted by Tyson @ 08/22/2003 06:48 PM PST

At this time (subject to bouts of weakness) I have decided to wait until Novemeber for the next edition of Two Towers. The first LOTR was certainly worth the wait - and I didn't!

My listening today: soundtrack of "Midnight Express". I'll be playing Donna Summer songs before I know it. I have a guilty liking for "Hot Stuff" but past that "Enough Is Enough"

I was hoping for a DR comment (yesterday) post re the Pet Shop Boys and Liza'a "Losing My Mind". Maybe td is the only PSB listener.

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 08/22/2003 06:49 PM PST

I wonder who did the orchestrations for New York Rock?

hmmm... tough question... ;)

Posted by Emily the JRB missionary @ 08/22/2003 06:53 PM PST

Surely I'm not the only Dear Reader with a fondness for Pet Shop Boys. . .or Erasure for that matter, or even Robbie Williams!

DR Tom (from Oz), well my computer guy is real, not A.I.-inclined. He's also Italianate and about five foot two. . .and thinner than a reed.

Posted by td @ 08/22/2003 07:01 PM PST

Quite like Mr Williams and his "Swing While You're Winning" and his pop stuff but it does make you appreciate (not that we don't already) Bobby Darin. (Mr Spacey where are you?)

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 08/22/2003 07:06 PM PST

DR Sundry: I left "work" at 1:30 p.m., PDT, and straggled into my bed at roughly 2 p.m., having dosed myself with enough different things to open my sinus passages, arrest my sinus flow, break up my chest congestion, stifle any urge to cough and to help me sleep. I must say that I feel somewhat better...certainly better than I was this morning and much better than I was last time I posted (Sarah: Take no offense from my comment, please...I had not been reading things closely enough and nothing untoward had been said by anyone that I could ascertain).

In the past 10 minutes, I've fed the cat, watered all the balcony plants, resumed sinus flow (!), made a gallon of iced tea and consumed a large glass of V-8.

I'm trying to interest myself in consuming partial quantities of foodstuffs...but I've had no appetite -- or food -- all day. It just doesn't seem "right," somehow.

I sure hope no one gets infected by reading my posts, or by my posts having immediately followed or preceded theirs.

Dr Tom From Oz: Tommy, g'Saturday to you, mate!

Does everyone here realize that IF the world ended today, Tom From Oz would have had ONE MORE DAY than the rest of us!!!!! We'd all have this brief flash of a weekend not consummated, and Tom From Oz will have already had half his weekend behind him.

Doesn't seem fair, does it???

Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 08/22/2003 07:17 PM PST

A DR was writing about BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY'S and complimenting Ms Edith Head on one of Patricia Neal's divoon outfits. I have been thinking about this since then, and I didn't go back to check the credits, but even if Ms Head took the credit (as she did for SABRINA for the Givenchy-designed dresses), Ms Neal's clothes in BAT were by Pauline Trigere.

Posted by Jrand52 @ 08/22/2003 07:38 PM PST

For those who care about such effluvia - tomorrow marks the return of our Unseemly Trivia Contest question and let me tell you, it's a doozy.

Posted by bk @ 08/22/2003 07:51 PM PST

Wooooooooohoooooooooooo!

Watch Google hits go up!

Posted by Jrand52 @ 08/22/2003 07:59 PM PST

Huzzah! An Unseemly Trivia
Contest is on its merry way! I
can hardly wait to become so
thoroughly flummoxed that I
start pounding my head
against my computer monitor
in glorious frustration.

Posted by Jed @ 08/22/2003 08:20 PM PST

DR RON: I think it means I age more quickly too! So pleased that you did not water the cat and feed the plants by mistake. But then that may have been OK too.

Posted by Tom Guest (from OZ) @ 08/22/2003 09:09 PM PST

Just finished watching "Bowling for Columbine". Not a bad documentary, but I think it had the reverse effect on me. Michael Moore's constant grandstanding made me want to go out and buy a gun...and I'm Canadian!

Posted by Dave @ 08/22/2003 09:28 PM PST

I love my friends! *Big Slap-Happy Grin*

I got picked up by dear Aly, we picked up a few others, and drove to the restaurant to eat dinner. I had thought that it wasn't happening, since the party would probably be at someones house, so I completely banished the thought from mind. But, lo and behold, we got in Applebees, and there was a huge group of my friends yelling "SURPRISE!". And they had told their fellow diners, so everyone was clapping. It was a "movie moment" :)

So I got lots of fun and cute presents, ate yummy mozzerella sticks for dinner, and proceeded in asking the waiter if he knew how to dance the hora. He tried, but this man was not a dancer. We had fun watching him struggle though, and he was a good sport. Then, the restaurant sang happy birthday to me, and I had some ver, very yummy ice cream, which I shared with mes copains.

Then we trekked on over and saw "Pirates of the Caribbean", AGAIN, which was just as good the second time, and I sat next to a very, very, VERY attractive guy and had a swell time. This has been the neverending birthday, last week someone took me out and celebrated, this week someone surprised me, and next week I get another PLANNED party! How very happy :) Sweet 16 indeed...

And here I am. Which I must say is a dispicable sight. I was gone for 5 and a half hours, and there's only 141 posts? We need to get our game on.

DR Ron Pulliam: I'm glad you're feeling better, and no offense was taken. Sick people get some slack with their emotions.

DR Paulie: Are you in Virginia too? A great plethora of us are, Jose, Donna, Maya, myself, and someone else who I can't remember.

Posted by Sarah @ 08/22/2003 09:42 PM PST

Note to DR Dave: We are still hoping for some Forever Plaid pics.

We had to delete DR Sandra's email address for the time being, as she has been getting some very odd emails lately. My account is fine, however.

Posted by Laura @ 08/22/2003 09:42 PM PST

But Sandra can still post! How was the zoo?

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 08/22/2003 10:07 PM PST

Oh, and something I've been meaning to say all day and kept forgetting: Congrats to BK for finally being finished with the untidy business.

Posted by Laura @ 08/22/2003 10:07 PM PST

Today I was listening to Peter Cincotti singing "Rainbow Connection" a few times, Rosemary Clooney singing "Always," a few tunes from BK's "Peter Pan" CD, af ew tunes from the Disney "Peter Pan" among others.

In the VCR is a special from PBS on George Cukor waiting to be watched (with the pledge breaks fast forwarded through).

Posted by Kerry @ 08/22/2003 10:15 PM PST

So DR Kerry, "Why Are There So Many Songs About Rainbows?".

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 08/22/2003 10:17 PM PST

Just got back from a few days in London where I went to see Pacific Overtures at the Donmar. It was great. The English National Opera did a dreadful version a few years ago, so I was delighted to see it's possible to do a good version of this show. Trouble is, I can't get 'Welcome to Kanagawa' out of my head now. Anyone know why Sondheim changed the lyrics about sexual positions?

In the CD player a (very cheap) film soundtrack CD of Porgy & Bess, with lousy sound and plenty of scratches - pity because the orchestrations and singing are both wonderful.
Also just arrived is a new Naxos CD of three Ned Rorem Symphonies, including my fave Third.

Posted by Allan @ 08/23/2003 03:47 AM PST

Hope Ron is feeling better this morning.

Revving up my keyboard for the Trivia Question - my brand new Compaq keyboard at that.

DR Paulie, welcome!

DR TD...I like all of the songs on the Patty Sings Valley, but my favorite is the race to the end on 'I'll Plant My Own Tree' - Patty is valiant, but the orchestra wins. And why were none of those tracks featured on the Best of Patty Duke Cd that was issued, I ask, why? Just won 4 lobby cards from BILLIE for $2.81!

Posted by Jrand52 @ 08/23/2003 04:55 AM PST

I actually have the soundtrack to "Billie"!

Posted by Kerry @ 08/23/2003 07:28 AM PST

Tom from OZ:

And what is on the other side?

Off the subject: a big hug is headed your way via the lovely, sweet and very cute Jose.

Posted by Kerry @ 08/23/2003 08:00 AM PST

Off to a wedding reception this pm. My friend is the bride. The groom's name is Cornelius. Of course, while the rest of the world thinks of Planet of the Apes, my mind goes to Barnaby and.

Posted by Dan-in-Toronto @ 08/23/2003 08:26 AM PST

I am going to be errant and truant this weekend as I will be away. I will miss you!

And inasmuch I have as good a chance of winning the trivia contest by supplying answers before I see the questions as I would by responding after I see the questions, here is my entry:

The Madwoman of Central Park West

Ruta Lee

Michael Bennett

Dean Jones

I Can Get It For You Wholesale

Dorothy Loudon

Posted by Jay @ 08/23/2003 08:27 AM PST

lol, Jay - and have a good weekend. How about a Jeopardy-style contest: we come up with questions for your six answers. (Okay, I checked out Ruta Lee's official web site, from which I quote. What an odd name for her father: "Born Ruta Mary Kilmonis in Montreal, Canada, Lee is the daughter of a Lithuanian tailor, the late Joseph and Mary Kilmonis.")

Posted by Dan-in-Toronto @ 08/23/2003 08:36 AM PST

Where IS bk with todays notes?

Posted by Sarah @ 08/23/2003 08:56 AM PST

In what one-woman musical could you hear Ed Kleban's "Better" two decades before A Class Act?

What "star" is an anagram for "Tea Rule"?

In the Forbidden Broadway parody, "Waiting Around For the Sondheim Show" Sondheim tells Prince their partnership is over and threatens to work, instead, with who?

Who starred in a musical about the shroud of Turin?

In what show does Gemini meet Capricorn and you can hear "the mating call of legal tender?"

What Broadway actress has seen two of her stage roles done on screen by Carol Burnett?

Posted by Noel, questioning Jay @ 08/23/2003 09:00 AM PST