Haines His Way

Archives => Archive 1 => Topic started by: bk on February 09, 2004, 12:02:43 AM

Title: GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: bk on February 09, 2004, 12:02:43 AM: Well, you've read the notes (which were LONG), you've girded your loins and therefore there is nothing left to be done except post until the cows come home. To it, I say.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jed on February 09, 2004, 12:13:51 AM: Oh my, what a wonderfully difficult topic o' the day. I'll have to do myself some pondering and answer later in the day.

Should have plenty of pondering time today, as I'm subbing for a teacher who has a student teacher at the moment, so I'm just there for legal purposes, while the student teacher will run the classes. Easiest day's wages I'm likely to ever see.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Tomovoz on February 09, 2004, 12:15:50 AM: The quartet version of "Johanna" in Act 2 of "Sweeney Todd" is my favourite Sondheim work. I do love so much of his work - "Not A Day Goes By" and "Finishing The Hat" are so beautiful. I still smile after countless listenings to "I Never Do Anything Twice". I also love "Barcelona". Must also give mentions to "You Must Meet My Wife" and the wonderful "Weekend In The Country: and "Every Day A little Death". I could list so many more - even "A House For Mama".
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Tomovoz on February 09, 2004, 12:17:25 AM: "Gird". Australia's national anthem has the line "girt by sea". It always seems to be an ugly phrase to me.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jrand74 on February 09, 2004, 02:52:21 AM: Hmmmmmmmmmmm...... :D

DR Jed - the CD is called THE LANGLEY SCHOOLS PROJECT, here is the Amazon link for details!

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00005Q6NP/qid%3D1076323829/sr%3D11-1/ref%3Dsr%5F11%5F1/102-9388937-4867303 (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00005Q6NP/qid%3D1076323829/sr%3D11-1/ref%3Dsr%5F11%5F1/102-9388937-4867303)

Favorite Sondheim ballad....so difficult to choose any ONE of anything, so I will choose two!

Our Time & No More.

Comedy song: Comedy Tonight, Bring Me My Bride

Lyric: Some People & You'll Never Get Away From Me.

Good thoughts this morning to TD and his family!
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Ben on February 09, 2004, 05:09:27 AM: Hard questions since I have many favorites. It's like the favorite 12 show tunes, this list could change but right now I'll say

Favorite Sondheim ballad: Losing My Mind from Follies (the beautiful Dorothy Collins)

Comedy song: If Mamma Was Married from Gypsy

Lyric: So much of the work in Night Music that it's hard to choose.

My favorite all-time number 1 Sondheim song, and I don't think this will change is Someone in a Tree from Pacific Overtures. It is also one of my absolute favorite shows in the entire musical theatre canon. I didn't see the Broadway production but I have seen the show and I just find it to be brilliant culminating in that amazing song.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Ben on February 09, 2004, 05:09:50 AM: JRand, your package is in the mail!
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Noel on February 09, 2004, 05:53:45 AM: :o I'm shocked to hear BK doesn't consider Vittorio Starraro a good lensman:
Bulworth, Little Buddha, The Sheltering Sky, Dick Tracy, New York Stories, Tucker, The Last Emperor, Reds, Luna, Apocalypse Now, 1900, Last Tango in Paris, The Conformist ....leads me to wonder if there's a living lensman who's done better work.

Sondheim ballad: definitely Who Could Be Blue
comedy: A Little Priest
up-tempo: A Weekend in the Country
lyric: the bridge to Uptown Downtown delights me; but for a whole lyric, I was more moved by Children and Art than anything I've heard in any of his shows

but Opening Doors should be there somewhere, for that one song totally captured my life in my twenties.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: PennyO on February 09, 2004, 05:58:03 AM: Mawnin', mawnin' everyone. Another beautiful day here on the river.

Favorite ballad - Losing My Mind (singing it in my show, so I'm especially fond of it right now), tied with I Remember.

Up-tempo - Broadway Baby (for the same reason!)

Comic Lyric - well, Officer Krupke really continues to knock my socks off. But there are so many, aren't there.

And one ensemble I always marvel at is the quartet Love Will Get Us Through 'til Something Better Comes Along. Wow. And Johanna's line: What's a reticule? always makes me laugh out loud (especially the way Betsy Joslyn delivered it!)

Have a lovely day - I will! I'm meeting my tech director today. Oh, BOY!!! And the gym on the corner gave me a special two-week membership for $20. I work out every day, so you do the math...
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: PennyO on February 09, 2004, 06:00:02 AM: Noel: I have to agree with you about A Little Priest!!!
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: William E. Lurie on February 09, 2004, 06:18:32 AM: There is too much Sodheim to choose from, but I'd probably have to say "Loooosing My Mind" as sung by the lovely Dame Edna (take that "Sondheim Review").

I find it quite interesting that the 40th Anniverary of The Beatles on the Ed Sullivan Show is getting a lot more media coverage that the 40th Anniversary of the Kennedy assassination got a couple of months ago.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jrand74 on February 09, 2004, 06:19:55 AM: So many wonderful choices! I love them all...BUT if we're talking a SPECIFIC lyric it would have to be:

"Some people sit on their butts...
Got the dream, yea, but not the guts...."

The story of so many lives and encouraged me to go out and do something about what I wanted to do....
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jrand74 on February 09, 2004, 06:23:10 AM: Mr BK - on the "Frances" DVD commentary, director Graeme Clifford said that he was shooting his movie on the Zoetrope lot at the same time FFC was shooting "One From the Heart." Did you ever run into any of the Frances crew.

Clifford also said it was ironic that they were shooting there because FFC had had a Frances Farmer project in the works as well, but shelved it when Brooksfilms got off the starting blocks first.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jrand74 on February 09, 2004, 06:47:49 AM: Oh, I forgot to tell DRWEL that the photo of Miss Phoebe B. Beebe was too cute!
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: MBarnum on February 09, 2004, 07:14:08 AM: DR Jose, hurray! If you can tape THE LAST WAGON for me I will be eternally grateful to ya! Thanks!!!!
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jay on February 09, 2004, 07:18:50 AM: Dear Reader MBarnum--

Last night you were asking about "The Lost Skeleton of Cadavra." The L.A. Times gave it a fairly positive review, indicating that lovers of '50s schlock like yourself will have a great time with it. Here's a link:

http://www.calendarlive.com/movies/reviews/cl-et-lost6feb06,2,5283210.story?coll=cl-mreview (http://www.calendarlive.com/movies/reviews/cl-et-lost6feb06,2,5283210.story?coll=cl-mreview)
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jay on February 09, 2004, 07:20:21 AM: For its interior rhyming, I just love "Ah, But Underneath."
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Matt H. on February 09, 2004, 07:57:21 AM: I knew mpost of my choices would already be picked once I logged on, read the notes, and saw the topic of the day. But here you are anyway . . . .

Favorite Sondheim ballad - no question: "Losing My Mind"

Comedy song: "A Little Priest" which is also one of the greatest Act I closers of all time along with "A Weekend in the Country"

Lyric: "The Miller's Son"

Uptempo number: "Everybody Says Don't"
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Matt H. on February 09, 2004, 07:59:55 AM: What's fascinating about this is that I could honestly list five or six choices under every single heading and none of them would repeat themselves. His catalog of songs is SO rich in so many ways that it's astonishing. "Genius" is not an overstated word when dealing with this man's work.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jrand74 on February 09, 2004, 08:09:55 AM: DR MBARNUM if you haven't visited the official site of the Skeleton of Cadavra - here it is....it has everything EXCEPT Mara Corday! ;D

http://www.sonypictures.com/movies/thelostskeletonofcadavra/?movie_id=25 (http://www.sonypictures.com/movies/thelostskeletonofcadavra/?movie_id=25)
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: William F. Orr on February 09, 2004, 08:14:29 AM: How strange, given the size and quality of the man's work, that we seem to be picking the same songs.

Ballad: "Losing My Mind", I admit it. I'm glad DR Noel brought up "Who Could Be Blue?", which is also one of my favorites and much less recorded. I may switch my choice to "Loving You" at the drop of a finished hat.

You see how unfair it is for us to be asked to pick a favorite, BK? "Nothing's Going to Harm You" and "Children Will Listen" are also both my number-one favorite, the latter more so as I watch how children grow up.

Comedy: Again, I have to go with the majority and say "A Little Priest", but I'm leaning toward "You Must Meet My Wife", as it is more of a character and plot song than the former. And, although I know many hate it, "That'll Show Him" has always set me laughing. And my favorite is "I Never Do Anything Twice"--oops, I mean "A Little Priest", or whatever I said first.

Lyric: "Everything was possible, and nothing made sense", as the perfect encapsulation of youth.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: William F. Orr on February 09, 2004, 08:16:16 AM: Most Inspirational: "Move On"

See, I have to invent new categories.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 09, 2004, 08:16:38 AM: Good morning. Have to run and get ready for a big meeting. This morning - before I saw the Notes - I was taking my early morning walk and listening to Mandy Patinkin's "Oscar & Steve" album on my Walkman. As I listened, I was thinking that I wanted to ask the DRs what they thought of Mr.. Patinkin. Sometimes he does the strangest things - yet for him it works. For anybody else it would be a sketch of an overwrought singer on SNL . His version of "If I Loved You" is a good example. I mean he is ALL over the place. He's over the top of the top of the top - but it seems to work. Anyway, what do you all think?
As for favorite Sondheims -- right at this moment "I Wish I Could Forget You" from Passion - because it's such a lethal love song ("A love as pure as breath/as permanent as death/ implacable as stone. /A love that like a knife/has cut into a life/I wanted left alone.) Whewww! Intense. And "No One is Alone" is very moving. Some of the others have already been named. Ask me in an hour, and I'll have different favorites.
Will post again after my meeting. I have no clear idea how to get there - so it should be an interesting challenge.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: DERBRUCER on February 09, 2004, 08:17:28 AM: Quote from: Jay on February 09, 2004, 07:20:21 AM
For its interior rhyming, I just love "Ah, But Underneath."

For the ultimate of this art form see TomOfOz earlier today:

Australia's national anthem as the line "girt by sea".
It always seems to be an ugly phrase to me.

der Brucer (waiting for T of O to start in with Haiku)
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: DERBRUCER on February 09, 2004, 08:21:52 AM: "Jogging Jew with Girded Loins"

Somewhere there is a great painting (or, indeed, sculpture) waiting to be set free.

der Brucer (thinking "Jogging Jew with Girded Loins Avoiding Vile Epithets" at tad too complex)
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: William F. Orr on February 09, 2004, 08:33:44 AM: DR Panni:

A colleague and his partner saw Mandy live last year, and his comment was that no matter what you think of Mandy on CD everything he does absolutely works in a live concert.

Freudeshaden Department:

A mutual acquaintance tells us that the MacBeths next door are having serious marital problems. Lord MacBeth was away all weekend, returned to the castle at 1:30 this morning and left for work at 5:30. Lady MacBeth was in and out all weekend alone, no sign of her two-year-old, which is not surprising, since she usually has the grandparents baby-sitting.

I really don't often wish bad things upon people, but when someone has gone out of her way to do something purely evil, I cannot help be enjoy watching the monster eat the Evil Industrialist who refused to cancel the festival!

Vibes: Thanks again to one and all.

Ballad: "Sunday". One of the most glorious songs ever written, and when I'm not humming the song that's my favorite, my favorite's the song that I'm humming. With apologies to Yip Harburg.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Ben on February 09, 2004, 08:37:27 AM: Part 3 of the Frank Loesser Story on BBC 2 is up. After you've listened to our own Donald and Evita deconstructed, ramble over to this link and hear some wonderful stuff including a story about Slow Boat to China and how "dirty" the song was thought to be by film censors of the time.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio2/r2music/easy/
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: William F. Orr on February 09, 2004, 08:46:59 AM: Perhaps "Jogging Jew with Girded Loins" will soon be playing on a double bill with "Jewish Thighs on Broadway".

Yesterday's Topic: My apologies to those who feel otherwise, but the Enterprise Theme "Faith of the Heart" impresses me as pop schlock. Joe and I turn down the volume and sing "I got strength of the bladder".

The worst part is that it has nothing to do with the entire concept of Roddenberry's Star Trek universe. The song is al I, I, I, and me, me, me. Roddenberry is Us Working Together. And, of course "ain't gonna hold me down no more" is a piece of non-grammar that even Captain Kirk wouldn't come out with. Captain Picard might smile tolerantly.

And speaking of Captain Picard, I have a

Star Trek Trivia Question: Although not as randy as Captain Kirk, Picard has had relationships with quite a few women. Three of them were played by actresses best known as singers, but none of them got to sing on the show. Can you name them? Hint: One has appeared on Broadway (and is doing so right now), one has been recorded by BK, two have appeared in musicals, one has written a musical, and one had a hit single of a Rodgers & Hart song.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: bk on February 09, 2004, 08:47:37 AM: Noel, darling, I didn't say I didn't think he was a "good" lensman (Mr. Storaro) - I said for me he isn't one of the greats. I don't think much of today's "living" cameramen, so sure, compared to today's cameramen he's fine. But I find his work not that special and I could make up a rather long list of people whose work I admire more, to wit: Franz Planer, Winton Hoch, Conrad Hall, John Alonzo, Henri Decae, Nicholas Roeg, Freddie Young, Douglas Slocombe, William Daniels, Stanley Cortez, Greg Toland, Raoul Coutard, Jack Cardiff, and I could go on and on. There's nothing wrong with Storaro - he's a fine cameraman, just not the second coming in my opinion (IMO, in Internet lingo).
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jrand74 on February 09, 2004, 08:57:01 AM: DR WEL - hmmmmm....good question!!

DR DerBrucer - it could also be filmed by Ingmar Bergman as:

Thighs and Whispers.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Matt H. on February 09, 2004, 09:05:46 AM: On the subject of Mandy Patinkin, I think he has a beautiful voice. I don't like how he chooses to use it on occasion. I bought his first two solo albums, and there were things on them I really liked, but when he goes over the top, well, that's when I check out. I know it's his style; he gets away with it and continues to do it, but I certainly switch to the next track when he goes into vocal overload.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: DERBRUCER on February 09, 2004, 09:46:51 AM: Well, since I was E&T for the last few days (that's it, blame me for an ~~irritable~~ ~~pissy~~ ~~cantakerous~~ ~~unhappy~~ diappointed Moderator).

I shall now seek to remedy the situation by helping make Monday a Day to Rememeber!

Here is the view from SWW's new perch:

(http://pic8.picturetrail.com/VOL242/891350/3691292/45353239.jpg)

der Brucer (a day late and a dozen posts short)
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: William F. Orr on February 09, 2004, 09:48:29 AM: After reading BK's posts from yesterday, I could not help myself:

Sunday
No one posts
On the blue and white website
With the bold
[move=left,scroll,6,transparent,100%]Colored, scrolling-left fonts.[/move]
Only once
You have read the notes
Post here on a Sunday

On the cool,
Jiggy, popular website
With the teal,
Navy, yellow, beige text.
You be next
To cut and paste smileys ::) :P ;D :)
Or a picture of your cat
For BK...

In maroon,
lime greeen daily discussions,
Post some on-
Or off-topic remark.
Tell us what you think,
Post a new-found
Quote

Or link (http://link),
And trivia,

Or he'll get into a snit,
And he'll threaten that he'll quit
If we don't increase the numbers,
And he'll take away our Sundays...
Sundays...
Sundaes?
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: DERBRUCER on February 09, 2004, 09:48:38 AM: I visit SWW at the Top of the World:

(http://pic8.picturetrail.com/VOL242/891350/3691292/45353201.jpg)

der Brucer
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Sandra on February 09, 2004, 09:48:50 AM: So on Friday, I went to my History class and got out my folder, which has a picture of a kitty cat on it. This girl saw it and said that the cats are going to take over the world. I couldn't tell if she was joking or not, but then she said, "It's Friday and a full moon. Not a good time to be a werewolf," so she might have been serious about the cat thing.
Then this guy walked in. Every single day, he walks into the room and looks surprised. He just stares with his eyes wide open looking like he just can't believe that we are all sitting in a History classroom. He stood there looking stunned about a minute before sitting down two seats in front of me.
Then the teacher, Ms. Hee-uh, got there and started class. The red-headed guy sitting next to me fell asleep right away. He had a cell phone or beeper or something that kept going off, so Surprised Guy kept turning around looking, oddly enough, surprised.
Red-headed Sleeping Guy didn't wake up at the end of class, so we just left him there when we left. Total hee-uh count was 42.

Then today, "Not a good time to be a werewolf" was reading a book on do-it-yourself witchcraft and wondering aloud whether she could get what she needed at Wal*Mart. Then she closed the book and asked me if I was a Libra. I said no. Then she asked me if I was a Taurus. I said yes and she looked surprised that she'd gotten it in two tries. She said that she should have known I was a Taurus because so is she and "we get along so well."
Surprised Guy got to class a little late today after class had already started. He only stood in the doorway for 25 seconds (I timed him) before Ms. Hee-uh asked him if he would care to sit down.
Total hee-uh count today was 55 (in a 50-minute class).
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: TCB on February 09, 2004, 09:53:47 AM: WEL -- You and I are on the same wave length regarding The Beatles. I sat there, yesterday, reading the Sunday newspapers' barrage of articles concerning Johnpaulgeorgeringo; and I couldn't help but wonder why the same coverage was not given to the anniversary of the JFK assassination. I don't mean to diminish the profound effect The Beatles had on our culture, but I personally think that the Kennedy assassination marked the end of innocence for this country and effectively changed the course of world history.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: bk on February 09, 2004, 10:00:12 AM: William F. Orr: Lovely, just lovely.

I'm still waiting to have my phone call. Apparently my little e-mail missive this weekend is causing seismic repurcussions and there is a meeting taking place (hence not being able to have my phone call yet) between all the production heads, all the VPs and the production department. I guess I'm not the only one who's having these silly kinds of problems from people not doing their jobs correctly, and apparently something will be done about it. Meanwhile, I will not be happy until I go over my notes with them, which hopefully, if their wise, will take place in the next couple of hours.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jay on February 09, 2004, 10:01:02 AM: I ditto what Dear Reader TCB just said.

Dear Reader Sandra--We miss your posts! They are so entertaining. And what makes them even more so is the knowledge that they are the honest truth--you report 'em as you see 'em.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: DERBRUCER on February 09, 2004, 10:07:07 AM: Quote from: William F. Orr on February 09, 2004, 09:48:29 AM
And he'll take away our Sundays...
Sundays...
Sundaes?

Never On A Sundae!

der Brucer (wondering if a fully illustrated Kama Sutra would should how to do IT on a Sundae)

Oh, you can post it on a Monday, a Monday, a Monday is a very good day.
Or you can post it on a Tuesday, a Tuesday, a Tuesday, in fact I wish you would.

Or you can post it on a Wednesday, a Thursday, a Friday and Saturday’s not out.
But always, always on a Sunday, a Sunday, a Sunday, cause that' s my day of pout.

Most any day you can be my guest. Any day you say, but ‘specially on the Day of Rest. Just name the day
You know the one. Please join us on the Day of Rest.

Oh, you can post it on cool day, a hot day, a wet day, whichever one you choose
Or try to post it on a gray day, a May day, a pay day, and see if I refuse.

And if you make it on a bleak day, a freak day, a week day, when I can be your host.
But, please ever on a Sunday, a Sunday, a Sunday, the one day I need a little post.

Der Brucer (with apologies to Dilly Towns)
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Ben on February 09, 2004, 10:08:44 AM: WEHT Jason, Hapgood and LC. I know Jason has been around recently, but where have LC and Hapgood disappeared?
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: William E. Lurie on February 09, 2004, 10:12:51 AM: I'm glad I'm not the only one who would have preferred a little more attention paid to JFK. I wonder what the world would be like today if he had lived. I'm sure every DR over about 45 remembers where they were when the first heard the news. I have to admit at the time I was a snotty 22 year old who was more concerned that the television debut of SINGIN' IN THE RAIN was pre-empted for the coverage, but over the years I began to appreciate what a great man JFK was (despite all those rumors about Marilyn Monroe - oh, a BLOOD BROTHERS reference). On the PBS Jack Paar tribute last week they had clips from JFK's appearance (also RFK). I think the country and the world would be in a much better place today if he had served the remainder of his term followed by a second term.

As for The Beatles, I enjoyed their early music when I heard it on the radio or television but didn't buy their recordings. I watched the Sullivan show with the Beatles this weekend. The highlight was two songs from OLIVER! with the original cast including future Monkee Davy Jones.

Two Liza items: she is rumored to be co-starring with Hugh Jackman in the movie version of ALW's SUNSET BOULEVARD; and she is dating Mario Cantone, former children's television host who somehow keeps getting jobs on television and Broadway despite no talent whatsoever. Does Liza ever date straight men?
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jennifer on February 09, 2004, 10:25:46 AM: Happy Monday everyone!

Just finished reading all the posts and notes.

BK, hope your phone call goes well today and that your mood gets better (it seems to have improved).

I am sort of in a mood myself today. THE GUY is mad at me and I feel so badly. And just when things were taking a dramatic turn for the better. I checked up on something and then told him about it, instead of just asking him directly in the first place. I've apologized (does anyone know a good way to say you're sorry?). I hate that I don't trust him sometimes. But sometimes when you've been hurt (by that person before) it is just SO hard to trust them completely again (although I want to work on this with him).

Oy, sorry for rambling. I could use some good vibes to hopefully resolve this.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: DERBRUCER on February 09, 2004, 10:30:46 AM: Did any DRs get to see this? Comments?

From clever detective to tough granny
Angela Lansbury returns to TV

Excerpts from CNN Interview (http://www.cnn.com/2004/SHOWBIZ/TV/02/04/apontv.angela.lansbury.ap/index.html)

NEW YORK (AP) -- Angela Lansbury read the script three times while puzzling whether to accept the part of 84-year-old, tough-as-nails Granny in "The Blackwater Lightship."

Then John Erman, the director of this "Hallmark Hall of Fame" production, made his pitch.

"He called me at my house in Ireland, which is where the film is set," Lansbury recalls with a smile, "while I was standing at my stove. He said, 'Angie, if you have the guts, you should do this role.' And I said, 'Well, you know me, and I do have the guts.' "

Despite their proximity in age, Granny proves a gutsy leap for the 78-year-old Lansbury, almost unrecognizable in the gray, thatchlike wig and dowdy garb the role demanded.

(http://i.cnn.net/cnn/2004/SHOWBIZ/TV/02/04/apontv.angela.lansbury.ap/story.granny.lansbury.ap.jpg)

der Brucer (ya gotta love gustsy broads!)
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: TCB on February 09, 2004, 10:31:20 AM: Ben -- It took me the longest time to figure out what WEHT meant. Still, you are correct about these unexcused absences. Hapgood is undoubtedly enjoying being a college man; and, for the moment, has forgotten his parents and boyhood friends, in addition to all of us here.

I am not sure that either LC or Jason has any such excuses. Perhaps, Jason has formed his own touring company of Seusical, The Musical; and has taken LC with him on tour?
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: DERBRUCER on February 09, 2004, 10:39:46 AM: Quote from: Jennifer on February 09, 2004, 10:25:46 AM
...(does anyone know a good way to say you're sorry..

Try Chocolate (probably would work on JoseS)

If that fails, try Caviar (works for me)

If all else fails, give an Autographed Copy of "Benjamin Kritzer"

der Brucer
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jennifer on February 09, 2004, 10:44:56 AM: I LOVE Sondheim. Here are SOME of my favorites:

Pretty women, SWEENEY
Hello Little Girl, ITW
Getting Married Today, Marry me a Little, Barcelona: Company
The Road you Didn't Take, Follies
Everyday A little Death, Weekend in the Country: ALNM
Anyone Can Whistle

I also love Not a Day Goes by.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jennifer on February 09, 2004, 10:47:44 AM: Quote from: DERBRUCER on February 09, 2004, 10:39:46 AM
Try Chocolate (probably would work on JoseS)

If that fails, try Caviar (works for me)

If all else fails, give an Autographed Copy of "Benjamin Kritzer"

Hmm bribery. I like it :)
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: DERBRUCER on February 09, 2004, 10:52:02 AM: BK is not the only one wrestling with gird (not to be confused with GERD of Nexium fame):

Excerpt from a Bill Tammeus column in Jewish World Review (http://www.jewishworldrevie):

IT'S sad to ponder the end of the universe. But we must gird up our loins.

(Girding up their loins was what people always did in the olden days when affliction, alarm and anxiety blossomed like dandelions on the suburban lawns of ancient Greece. "Gird" is the root word of girdle. Loin is the root word of loiter. So girding up one's loins means wearing a girdle while lollygagging about in shopping malls. Remember that.) (Remember what?)

der Brucer (he even writes like BK!)
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: TCB on February 09, 2004, 10:54:09 AM: I have always enjoyed Mandy. I have mentioned before at this site that I thought that Mandy's performance was the only redeemable part of the Broadway production of Velveeta. I think I have all of his CDs, except the one in Yiddish, and although he can be (what was MattH's polite term?) “over the top” I guess I can endure his flights of fancy, because, at other times, he can be so incredible.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jrand74 on February 09, 2004, 10:59:39 AM: Sorry, I don't appreciate Mr Patinkin - although I like the movie about his battleship.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Charles Pogue on February 09, 2004, 11:00:07 AM: I think Liza Minelli as Norma Desmond would be disastrous. Even though I'm not a fan of the musical (nor much of Sir Andrew's), the role still requires an actress, not the freakish cartoon Minelli has become.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: William F. Orr on February 09, 2004, 11:00:17 AM: Some here may not be familiar with Forbidden Broadway's send-up of Mandy's "Somewhere Over the Rainbow": "Somewhat Overindulgent". Well, you should be.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Donald on February 09, 2004, 11:01:39 AM: The brand new BROADWAY RADIO SHOW is now up and running.....this week we "put together' EVITA

Enjoy!
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: William F. Orr on February 09, 2004, 11:02:12 AM: Sunset Boulevard? Norma Desmond? No contest. Carol Burnette.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jay on February 09, 2004, 11:03:50 AM: When Mandy Patinkin goes over the top, he brings a certain conviction and/or credibility to his actions that sometimes/oftentimes is absent when other folks, such as Nathan Lane and Robin Williams, go into their own versions of "over the top." It's a case of genuine extreme behavior to make a comedic or dramatic point vs. any antic will do so long as it draws attention.

I know a lot of people dislike Patinkin's turn in the NY Philharmonic recording of Follies, but I think it contributes greatly to the overall electricity of that entire performance.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: MBarnum on February 09, 2004, 11:04:03 AM: Maya, is also still missing.

And whatever happened to those new DRs. They come, make a post or two, and then disappear into the night!
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jrand74 on February 09, 2004, 11:07:26 AM: DR WEL - that was a send-up??!!!!
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jay on February 09, 2004, 11:08:24 AM: I have said for some time that Miss Babs would make a fine musical Norma Desmond if, and only if, she did not direct the film herself. Anybody here for Mike Nichols at the helm? Rob Marshall?
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jrand74 on February 09, 2004, 11:13:16 AM: We're talking about movies - huh....well then I think the musical SUNSET BOULEVARD will be pitched with the following cast:

Norma: Madonna
Joe Gllis: Justin Timberlake
Max: Dave Matthews
Betty: Brittany Spears

OR to go in a different direction:

Norma: Ann-Margret
Joe: Christian Bale
Max: Pat Boone
Betty: Jennifer Lopez
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jennifer on February 09, 2004, 11:14:56 AM: I saw on Page Six where it said Liza was wanted to play Norma in the movie version of Sunset. But the Mario Cantone thing was a joke, right? I mean he impersonates her!
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: TCB on February 09, 2004, 11:15:33 AM: I really think that Liza's sucess or failure in Sunset Blvd. would depend on who was directing the production. Personally, I didn't care for Miss Minelli's Oscar-winning turn in Cabaret, but I was very impressed with some of her early film performances. With a strong enough director, and one that she would trust, I think she is still capable of creating a powerful Norma Desmond. Unfortunately, if it is a director who allows her to slide into her Lizaisms then we had all better run for cover.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: DERBRUCER on February 09, 2004, 11:17:03 AM: Some amusing (or, maybe not, tibits for the day):

Excerpts from Tongue Tied (http://www.foxnews.com/printer_friendly_story/0,3566,110799,00.html) :

Nixed Neckwear
A teacher in Norway has been asked not to wear a half-inch Star of David around his neck so as not to offend some students, especially those from the Palestinian territories, reports Norwegian Broadcasting.
The teacher, Inge Telhaug, works at an adult education center in Kristiansand. The principal of the school told him the star could be interpreted as a political symbol and provoke Muslim students.

Telhaug is not happy. "I can't accept this. It is a small star, 16 millimeters [0.6 inches] that I have around my neck, usually under a T-shirt. I see it as my right to wear it," he said.

Berzerkley
Activists in Berkeley, Calif., are angling to change the name of Jefferson Elementary School because the signer of the Declaration of Independence owned slaves during his lifetime, reports the Berkeley Daily Planet.

Instigators of the change have garnered the signatures of 40 percent of the staff and 32 percent of the parents in their effort. Now, students must vote on the change.
Should Jefferson go, he would be the latest in a stream of dead white males scrubbed from school buildings in Berkeley. Abraham Lincoln Elementary was renamed Malcolm X following community pressure some years ago, and just four years ago Christopher Columbus Elementary was rebuilt and renamed after Rosa Parks .

So Were We
An NBA announcer who came under fire for referring to basketball star Yao Ming as a "Chinaman" has apologized and said he was unaware it was an insult, reports the San Francisco Chronicle.

Steve Kerr was pilloried after he used the term during a nationally televised game a couple weeks ago. The Organization of Chinese Americans described its members as incensed by the phrase.

"I'd like to offer a heartfelt apology to all viewers, and to Chinese Americans in particular, for referring to Yao Ming as a 'Chinaman' on TNT's broadcast of the Houston Rockets game this past Monday night," Kerr said in a statement. "I made the comment very innocently, as I incorrectly believed that referring to Yao in that way was the same as calling someone a 'Frenchman', an 'Englishman' or a 'Dutchman.'"

A New Slur?
A Canadian hockey player has been suspended for referring to an opposing player as a "Euro" during a match, reports The Associated Press.

The Ontario Hockey League suspended Plymouth Whalers defenseman James Wisniewski for five games for telling Stefan Ruzicka that he did not fight "Euros" when challenged. Ruzicka is from Slovakia.

Ted Baker, the OHL's director of hockey operations, said the league does not tolerate comments directed at players based on their origin, ethnicity or sexual orientation.

der Brucer (hoping Jennifer or Emily will post something nice about The Ontario Hockey League)
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: William E. Lurie on February 09, 2004, 11:21:00 AM: Sorry... the Liza was not a send-up. However it was a rumor and not a done deal, and I hpe it remains that way. As for done deals that were rumors, it is now official that Michael McKean is Broadway's next Edna Turnblad.

If someone could control Mandy more, he would be a wonderful performer. His Emmy-winning stint on "Chicago Hope" was wonderful and he was great in "The Princes Bride", but he totally ruined the Broadway WILD PARTY with his over-the-top performance. He comes off much better on recordings than in person.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: TCB on February 09, 2004, 11:25:22 AM: Did anyone else see the blurb about Barbra Streisand possibly playing opposite Dustin Hoffman in Ben Stiller;s sequel to Meet the Parents? Apparently, Mr. Hoffman and Ms. Streisand would play Stiller's parents. Filming is to begin this spring.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jennifer on February 09, 2004, 11:43:21 AM: Quote from: TCB on February 09, 2004, 11:25:22 AM
Did anyone else see the blurb about Barbra Streisand possibly playing opposite Dustin Hoffman in Ben Stiller;s sequel to Meet the Parents? Apparently, Mr. Hoffman and Ms. Streisand would play Stiller's parents. Filming is to begin this spring.

I remember seeing her hubby interviewed a few weeks ago (was it at the Golden Globes?). He mentioned this movie. But I cannot remember if he said she was in talks or it was a done deal.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jane on February 09, 2004, 11:43:50 AM: Thank you Kerry and I think the massage suggestion to Bruce was excellent.

CharlePogue thank you for the update on Johnny Crawford. Recently we watched the “The Rifleman”, beginning with the first episode, in its entirety. I found I appreciated the show much more as an adult than as a child. The father, son relationship in the show was way ahead of its time and I thought Johnny Crawford was just great, something I don’t believe I noticed the first time around.

SWW your story of the grandlads made me laugh. I do think the daughter & grandlad need to be tested to see if they are actually allergic to the dogs. It is possible they are allergic to something that is on the dogs, something from the yard or even the soap you are bathing them in. In a household with a normal number of pets, my suggestion would be to do the following prior to their next visit: bathe the dogs in a mild, unscented shampoo then rinse with distilled water followed by a thorough dusting & vacuuming of the house. Of course at that point you just might sleep through their visit. LOL.

Echo is also a popcorn lover. She gets it from Keith.

Panni I hope your meeting went well. I am not a fan of Mandy Patinkin. Keith’s mother was given a CD of him singing Yiddish songs. The blurb with the CD mentioned how he studied Yiddish. Mom wanted to know what Yiddish he was speaking as it was different from what she speaks. Needless to say, she didn’t care for it. Now I know that had nothing to do with his singing ability, your question just made me think of the story.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jane on February 09, 2004, 11:50:16 AM: Quote from: DERBRUCER on February 09, 2004, 09:46:51 AM
Here is the view from SWW's new perch:

(http://pic8.picturetrail.com/VOL242/891350/3691292/45353239.jpg)

That is absolutely beautiful!! :)
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: bk on February 09, 2004, 11:54:59 AM: Maya has been stolen away to another message board. Perhaps someday she'll come by and say "bye" or something (or "hi" or something). As long as she is happy that is all that matters.

Finally had my phone call which went fine and I'm resting easier now. They have made my galley the top priority, and they are putting someone who knows what they are doing on it. They also pulled out each and every incorrect page of this galley to show them just how stupid they are/were. One of the things she said to me is that the idiot in production was whining that Kristin ITC, the font for the chapter headings and titles, couldn't be ITALICS in that font. I simply asked if they'd actually bothered to look at the BOOK, Kritzerland, that was provided as a sample where Kristin ITC IS printed in italics whenever we want it to be. How can it suddenly NOT be? That's the kind of stupidity we're dealing with, but I think some heads rolled today.

Tonight I'm doing the Disney/ASCAP workshop thing I do every year.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Matt H. on February 09, 2004, 12:01:21 PM: And Mario Cantone is an OUT gay man, not like some of Liza's other dates/husbands.

The very idea of Liza as Norma Desmond is enough to give me a stomach ache. I can't see Barbra as Norma either. I didn't have much use for the show either. I think Lloyd Webber had better wait to see what the reception is for PHANTOM OF THE OPERA on film before he starts doing much planning on this. I'm not convinced it's going to be a hit.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: S. Woody White on February 09, 2004, 12:04:05 PM: Quote from: Jay on February 09, 2004, 11:08:24 AM
I have said for some time that Miss Babs would make a fine musical Norma Desmond if, and only if, she did not direct the film herself. Anybody here for Mike Nichols at the helm? Rob Marshall?
Penny Marshall?
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Donna on February 09, 2004, 12:04:24 PM: SONDHEIM FAVS (will post rest later):
Lyric: These are the first that came to mind (talk about your inner rhymes) and it matches DR Noel's choice. Singing the bridge from "Uptown Downtown" is so much fun and I think it's a good song to warmup with. These lyrics are from memory. Hope I got them right...

She sits in the Ritz with her spritz of Mums
And starts to pine for a stein with her Village chums
But with a Schlitz in her mitts down in Firtzroy's Bar
She thinks of the Ritz
Oh it's so schizo
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Emily on February 09, 2004, 12:06:16 PM: [move=left,scroll,6,transparent,100%]GOOD AFTERNOON ALL![/move]

Today is especially good because I walked into my Sociolinguistics class and was told by the TA that it was cancelled because the prof had food poisoning. Now, I don't wish sickness upon anyone... but that announcement may have resulted in a teeny tiny sheepish grin of joy ;)

Last night I helped my younger sister apply to McGill's Faculties of Science and Education. She is a very confused little girl and has no idea what she wants to do with her life. It doesn't help that on one hand she has my father telling her that unless she becomes an engineer she will be homeless and poor and on the other hand she has me telling her that 70% of Fortune 500 companies' CEO's have degrees from Liberal Arts Colleges.

DR Jed - I want your job. Really.

DR Sandra - you need to collect your classroom observances and publish them. They are absolutely hilarious!

DER BRUCER - I know nothing about the Ontario Junior Hockey League. Funny story though - my dad (who arrived back from Jackson, Mississippi on Friday night) was laughing about truly being "home" when he glanced at Saturday's Montreal Gazette and saw the following as the top headline:

http://www.canada.com/search/story.html?id=8a439848-e620-4961-b61d-8d80ec8f1868 (http://www.canada.com/search/story.html?id=8a439848-e620-4961-b61d-8d80ec8f1868)

OY. That's all I say about that.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jrand74 on February 09, 2004, 12:12:01 PM: Oy - I didn't git nuttin'
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Charles Pogue on February 09, 2004, 12:16:59 PM: DERBRUCER, Re: scrubbing Jefferson's name off the school because he owned slaves. He also gave us the declaration of independence, for Christ's sake!

I'm so tired of the great men of yesterday being judged by the narrow prism of today's morals and standards. They were creatures of their time. And it is so wrong to judge a man only by his flaws (and especially flaws that were not necessarily considered flaws in his day). You have to judge the whole man. What was their problem with Abraham Lincoln? And why from Lincoln to Malcolm X? As for Columbus, boy, has he taken his shots the past few years. Everyone thinks Columbus came over here and destroyed some idyllic paradise. The fact was Conquest was the nature of the day. Columbus did a remarkable feat. And the Indians long before he came were warring with each other, conquering each other, torturing each other. They weren't innocent babes living in peace with each other.

I've just seen this sort of character assasination going on at the Writer's Guild, where many people are up in arms because our new president may have padded his resume, despite the fact that his guild service has been exemplary. Whether he padded his resume, in a town where people constantly reinvent themselves, is utterly irrelevant to me. They're his life lies and, despite some angry guild members declaring they have a right to know, they don't. It's none of their business. All they have a right to question is his behaviour and work for the guild. But some malcontents, always the guild's worst enemies, will try to stir up controversry where none exist. They always crawl out of the woodwork at election and negotiation time. As my pal Harlan Ellison said when one of these malcontents called him and tried to enlist him in their efforts to smear the prez, "As long as his guild service is impeccable, he can screw chickens in Macy's front window, for all I care."

I am really bored with this tabloid culture of ours that rabidly roots through everyone's closet in a gleeful search for skeletons and dirty linen. It's time some public figure stood up and just told all these busybodies, "It's none of your damned business!"

End of rant.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Ben on February 09, 2004, 12:18:11 PM: But you will, JR, in just a couple of days. You will get sumthin' Patience is a virture, young man (also the title of a G&S piece).
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jrand74 on February 09, 2004, 12:18:32 PM: Liza as Norma....Barbra as Norma.....

Either one would be interesting to me...both would need a good strong director....but the whole movie would...after all it's already been a GREAT movie - that's why I liked it onstage....a successful transfer from one medium to another....but would it transfer back again? Whew....I don't know.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Emily on February 09, 2004, 12:19:50 PM: oops - the link is now fixed
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jrand74 on February 09, 2004, 12:20:27 PM: Thanks DR BEN - I am all agog!

I guess I should clarify to say...I didn't get nuttin' when I clicked DR Emily's link....or at least not a real headline.

EEEPS! Now I get it! ::)
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jane on February 09, 2004, 12:20:51 PM: Quote from: DERBRUCER on February 09, 2004, 10:30:46 AM

From clever detective to tough granny
Angela Lansbury returns to TV

In my opinion she really made the movie.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Charles Pogue on February 09, 2004, 12:24:52 PM: BK, what precisely is the Disney/ASCAP thing you do?
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jane on February 09, 2004, 12:25:11 PM: Quote from: TCB on February 09, 2004, 11:25:22 AM
Did anyone else see the blurb about Barbra Streisand possibly playing opposite Dustin Hoffman in Ben Stiller;s sequel to Meet the Parents? Apparently, Mr. Hoffman and Ms. Streisand would play Stiller's parents. Filming is to begin this spring.

No, but I think they would be very funny. Sure hope the script is good.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: td on February 09, 2004, 12:31:43 PM: Quote from: Noel on February 09, 2004, 05:53:45 AM
:o I'm shocked to hear BK doesn't consider Vittorio Starraro a good lensman:
Bulworth, Little Buddha, The Sheltering Sky, Dick Tracy, New York Stories, Tucker, The Last Emperor, Reds, Luna, Apocalypse Now, 1900, Last Tango in Paris, The Conformist ....leads me to wonder if there's a living lensman who's done better work.

Well, with the exception of TUCKER, Noel's list would lead me to believe that he's NOT a great lensman. Not at all. Having seen all of those on the big screen, it would seem that Mr. S. is quite fond of dark, dingy dirty-looking pictures. :o

All went well this A.M.; there is no blockage in dad's heart - - - BUT (and this would be a big but) his heart is in a very weakened state, which his doctor is going to attempt to strengthen with new meds as well as a healthier diet and regimen.
Tomorrow, Dad gets the stress test (hopefully NOT involving the complete film works of Vitttorio Storaro)!

Back to the hospital now that I've had a power nap and answered all my emails.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 09, 2004, 12:32:32 PM: Back from my meeting. The first victory was that I actually found the place -- somewhere in the bowels of Santa Monica - despite Mapquest's ridiculous directions. It was a very pleasant meeting. Turned out that the person I was meeting with - whom I hoped to impress and was a little nervous in that regard - was actually nervous about meeting me, hoping that I would take the job. I was thinking that I was auditioning for her and she was thinking that she was auditioning for me. Ain't life full of surprises?
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: S. Woody White on February 09, 2004, 12:35:02 PM: Quote from: TCB on February 09, 2004, 11:25:22 AM
Did anyone else see the blurb about Barbra Streisand possibly playing opposite Dustin Hoffman in Ben Stiller;s sequel to Meet the Parents? Apparently, Mr. Hoffman and Ms. Streisand would play Stiller's parents. Filming is to begin this spring.
Like his real parents are people to be ashamed of?
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jane on February 09, 2004, 12:36:46 PM: Sandra I hope you are saving these classroom stories. You just might have a sitcom in your future.

William F. Orr you are so clever.

Jennifer-GOOD VIBES!

Bruce, glad you are feeling better about the book now. At least they are now taking the necessary steps to correct the problems

Charles Pogue I do enjoy your rants. :)

TD I’m pleased it went well today. Many people have lived a long time with heart problems-wishing your Dad the best success with treatment.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 09, 2004, 12:39:50 PM: Good news, td. Hope all continues to go well.

FS Pogue - Excellent rant.

Gorgeous mountain view, DerBrucer. I can taste the air just looking at it. Here in LA I can taste the air too. Blechhh!
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: td on February 09, 2004, 12:41:12 PM: That is an awesome view! Is it the view from Pompey's head, or the view from the bridge, or is it the view from the room with a view? Whatever it is, it is breathtakingly beautiful! (especially the shot with the beard). (OH! a Liza Minnelli reference)!
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: bk on February 09, 2004, 12:42:19 PM: The Disney/ASCAP workshop does three or four new musical workshops every year. The panel is run by Stephen Schwartz, and I've been sitting on the panel (for one of the new musicals) for the last eight years. We critique the work in progress. It's fun.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: S. Woody White on February 09, 2004, 12:58:17 PM: In alpha order, today's list:

Agony
Anyone Can Whistle
Could I Leave You?
Every Day a Little Death
Everybody Ought to Have a Maid
Finishing the Hat
Free
The Gun Song
Happily Ever After
I Guess This is Goodbye
I Never Do Anything Twice
I Remember
I'm Still Here
The Ladies Who Lunch
Last Midnight
A Little Priest
Loving You
The Miller's Son
Move On
Not a Day Goes By
Not While I'm Around
Our Time
Please, Hello
Rose's Turn
Simple
Someone in a Tree
Something's Coming
Sooner or Later
Sorry/Grateful
Sunday
There's Always a Woman
Waiting for the Girls Upstairs
Who's That Woman?

(And speaking of inner rhymes:
I feel rotten
Oh so rotten
Like some cotton has caught in my ear
And my poor throat
Is a sore throat at this time of year.)
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Matt H. on February 09, 2004, 01:16:00 PM: Good news, DR td, and continued good vibes for your dad as he works through the problems.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Robin on February 09, 2004, 01:19:00 PM: Quote from: Ben on February 09, 2004, 05:09:27 AM
My favorite all-time number 1 Sondheim song, and I don't think this will change is Someone in a Tree from Pacific Overtures. It is also one of my absolute favorite shows in the entire musical theatre canon.

I just fell madly in love with you...Pacific Overtures is astonishingly brilliant, and it's currently getting a resurgence in popularity. I saw a breathtaking performance of this at the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre a few years ago; a good deal of the audience didn't "get it", if you know what I mean, and left at intermission. (I heard one idiotess whine that it was "a ten-dollar play", whatever the heck that meant, and someone else bitch that there weren't enough real Asians in the cast, and why the hell did men play the women's parts? Talk about dolts!) There was also a production of this recently here in the Twin Cities which wasn't as miminalistic, and not only blurred racial lines but gender lines (some men played women, some women played men); it didn't work for me as well as the Chicago production, but I still liked it a lot.

Anyway, some of my other favorites...

"Being Alive" from Company

"Impossible" from Forum, which contains my favorite lyric:
"The situation's fraught,
Fraughter than I thought,
With horrible,
Impossible,
Possibilities!"

"Our Time" from Merrily We Roll Along, another sadly underrated Sondheim show. Oh, hell, I like ALL the songs from this show...!

"Anyone Can Whistle" from Anyone Can Whistle.

"If You Can Find Me, I'm Here", from Evening Primrose.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Robin on February 09, 2004, 01:19:31 PM: Ooooh, PAGE FOUR!
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jane on February 09, 2004, 01:25:02 PM: I haven’t a clue as to why mail, addressed to my father, would come to me since my brother is the executor of the estate. Today, addressed to Ashland, CA (the correct zip code got it here) the Superior Court of California mailed my father a notice of Permanent excuse due to the fact he is deceased. It is times like this when having a warped sense of humor is a definite advantage. ;D
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jane on February 09, 2004, 01:30:44 PM: Quote from: S. Woody White on February 09, 2004, 12:35:02 PM
Like his real parents are people to be ashamed of?

You are so right! :-[
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: S. Woody White on February 09, 2004, 01:32:20 PM: Quote from: td on February 09, 2004, 12:41:12 PM
That is an awesome view! Is it the view from Pompey's head, or the view from the bridge, or is it the view from the room with a view? Whatever it is, it is breathtakingly beautiful! (especially the shot with the beard). (OH! a Liza Minnelli reference)!
Hey, a little credit where credit is due! That pic of ol' fur-face didn't take itself, y'know!

( ;D )

(But I guess no one reads captions.)

And best continued vibes, TD.

[move=up,scroll,6,transparent,100%]~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~[/move]
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jane on February 09, 2004, 01:44:10 PM: Quote from: S. Woody White on February 09, 2004, 01:32:20 PM
Hey, a little credit where credit is due! That pic of ol' fur-face didn't take itself, y'know!

You mean you took the photo?

“Here is the view from SWW's new perch” sounds to me as if it is a view from your new home. But it looks like a view of the Grand Canyon. ???
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Noel on February 09, 2004, 01:49:03 PM: So much to comment on...
That's what makes for a busy Monday.

Part of my work today was rewriting a Sondheim lyric. A cabaret I'm doing on the 23rd is to begin with Invocation and Instructions to the audience. Since there's no point in referring to Aristophanes when the song is done out of the context of the original show, I changed it to

Please don't cough,
And turn the goddamn cellphones off.
You mustn't add to our cacophonies
So please, don't cough.

...which I know, is an identity rather than a rhyme (cacoph... and cough). Embarrassed as I am, I know I'm the only one who'd notice it.

I thought Reds was a beautifully photographed film. And also The Last Emperor. Were the directors of photography BK named alive or dead?

Sunset Boulevard, the wonderful Billy Wilder film, was rendered dramatically inert by Lloyd Webber and company. I truly believe that the only way to make it work as a film musical is to throw out the score and start anew. Of course, throwing out the Broadway score has ruined many a film. But much of the stage version's success was based on stuff that won't translate to the screen, such as a hydrolic set. I don't think Liza Minelli's up to the role, but Glenn Close still has name recognition. And Meryl Streep may be a superior singer.

I empathize about the galley problems (even if I have no empathy about the lack of a posting frenzy). We stared and stared at the proofs of the Our Wedding - The Musical http://www.weddingmusical.com/ (http://www.weddingmusical.com/) CD liner. On the front cover is a quote from The New York Times, http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9907E0DC153EF93AA25753C1A9659C8B63 (http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9907E0DC153EF93AA25753C1A9659C8B63) and here's how it looked on the proof:

raffishly rhymed riffs...brought down the house

When the huge box of CDs arrived from the manufacturer, here's what it said on the cover:

raffishly ryhmed riffs...brought down the house

It took us more than a month to discover the mistake, but there's nothing we can do about it. The first printing has run. Their mistake; not ours: the proof we'd approved was perfect.

I'm exceedingly gratified that Diana Ross will be doing jail time for drunk driving. It's not that I have anything against Miss Ross (she was once a neighbor); it's just that drunk drivers are evil, killing and injuring many innocent victims every year.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: TCB on February 09, 2004, 01:49:11 PM: Gee, half-way through the day and I have still not gotten around to responding to today’s topic. This is really a tough one for me, as, apparently, it is for a lot of other people here. There is so much great Sondheim to choose from that it boggles the mind.

Just about anything from Sweeney Todd.
Just about anything from Follies.
Just about anything from Company.
Just about anything from A Little Night Music
Just about anything from Evening Primrose

Anything from Gypsy, Forum, or West Side Story.

And, a lot from just about every other show by Sondheim, except Bounce or Passion (and only because I am not familiar with the score of either one of them).
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Matt H. on February 09, 2004, 01:56:12 PM: Speaking of BOUNCE, the cast album is set for release sometime this spring, isn't it?
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 09, 2004, 01:56:40 PM: Quote from: S. Woody White on February 09, 2004, 12:35:02 PM
Like his real parents are people to be ashamed of?

When I was writing for SEEING THINGS on the CBC (see yesterday's posts) the show ran on PBS NY at some ungodly hour. It had a tiny cult following of smart people who stayed up late. One day a letter showed up in our production offices simply addressed to "Seeing Things, CBC." Being Canada, it got to us.
The letter was from Stiller and Meara, saying they had accidentally caught the show and wanted to send congratulations on how funny it was. Coming from them, that was a tremendous compliment. I still have a copy of it somewhere.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: TCB on February 09, 2004, 01:57:16 PM: Oh yes, there is one Sondheim show that I really don't care much for, but I think I will keep the name of that show to myself.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Robin on February 09, 2004, 02:01:17 PM: I've got a problem.

Well, actually both the Significant Other and myself have the same problem, and I'm kinda hoping the assembled throng here at HHW would be kind enough to share their solutions to this situation.

Every week, either one or the both of us will pick up some deeveedees. They're mounting up. They're going to take over the condo, if we're not careful. We've just sold a ton of them on eBay, but that's only a stopgap measure at best. Space is at a premium; and we like our living space fairly small and spartan.

How are YOU storing them? Do you have some monolithic storage unit, or are you throwing away the packaging and storing the things in albums or something? Should we apply to have our teevee room redone on Trading Spaces?
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jane on February 09, 2004, 02:08:05 PM: Exactly the reason we rarely purchase a DVD. :D
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Matt H. on February 09, 2004, 02:15:37 PM: A friend of mine puts the DVDs in those super thin CD jewel boxes you can buy at Office Depot for very cheap and then he cuts up the keeper or snapper case sheets to make the cover. He has hundreds of DVDs stored in a filing cabinet.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: George on February 09, 2004, 02:51:23 PM: Quote from: DERBRUCER on February 09, 2004, 11:17:03 AM
So Were We
An NBA announcer who came under fire for referring to basketball star Yao Ming as a "Chinaman" has apologized and said he was unaware it was an insult, reports the San Francisco Chronicle.

Steve Kerr was pilloried after he used the term during a nationally televised game a couple weeks ago. The Organization of Chinese Americans described its members as incensed by the phrase.

"I'd like to offer a heartfelt apology to all viewers, and to Chinese Americans in particular, for referring to Yao Ming as a 'Chinaman' on TNT's broadcast of the Houston Rockets game this past Monday night," Kerr said in a statement. "I made the comment very innocently, as I incorrectly believed that referring to Yao in that way was the same as calling someone a 'Frenchman', an 'Englishman' or a 'Dutchman.'"

A New Slur?
A Canadian hockey player has been suspended for referring to an opposing player as a "Euro" during a match, reports The Associated Press.

The Ontario Hockey League suspended Plymouth Whalers defenseman James Wisniewski for five games for telling Stefan Ruzicka that he did not fight "Euros" when challenged. Ruzicka is from Slovakia.

Ted Baker, the OHL's director of hockey operations, said the league does not tolerate comments directed at players based on their origin, ethnicity or sexual orientation.

der Brucer (hoping Jennifer or Emily will post something nice about The Ontario Hockey League)

Okay, I have a question about this...sort of. Is the expression "calling the kettle black" a racial slur or reference? Last week on "The Apprentice," one of the women said it to Omarosa (the African American woman) who took offense. I never thought about this expression being a racial slur (and have never used it anyway), but I was just wondering if it is or was Omarosa being too sensitive because emotions were high at that moment and the expression has the word "black" in it. Anyone know? Or am I just naive?
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jane on February 09, 2004, 03:19:49 PM: http://www.goenglish.com/ThePotCallingTheKettleBlack.asp

The Pot Calling The Kettle Black ( to say something about someone else which is actually true of you yourself ... )
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"the pot calling the kettle black"
You are the pot calling the kettle black when you point to another person and accuse that person of doing something that you are guilty of doing yourself. Example: "You are accusing me of being lazy? Ha! That's the pot calling the kettle black!"

"The pot" (for cooking) and "the kettle" (for boiling water) sit on the stove over the fire and become black from the flames. Example: "I'm tired of you always wearing my clothing!" Answer: "Aren't you the pot calling the kettle black? You're wearing my pants right now!"

The pot and the kettle are like old friends who have turned black with time; the pot only sees the blackness which is on the kettle; he doesn't see the black on himself. Example: "Here comes the guy who is always late for work." Answer: "Aren't you the pot calling the kettle black? You are usually the last person to show up!"
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Dan-in-Toronto on February 09, 2004, 03:31:37 PM: I've been stalling on the Sondheim choices, but at the moment "Sorry-Grateful" is my favorite lyric.

DR Jane. Yes, a warped sense of humor is a definite advantage - and the letter you received made me groan. When I discontinued my mom's phone line, the operator - sounding much like a recording - finished the conversation with: "Please accept our condolences and thank you for choosing Bell Canada."
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Donna on February 09, 2004, 03:33:51 PM: Speaking of Mario Cantone...
He was on The View this morning reviewing The Grammy Awards show. I haven't laughed so hard in a long time. Definitely cathartic!

Excerpt: He mentioned Justin Timberlake"s apology for the Superbowl fiasco and then referred to a photo of Justin's Mom in the audience---wearing a very low cut gown with most of her boobs hanging out!

Can't wait till Mario returns to The View to review The Oscars!
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: DERBRUCER on February 09, 2004, 03:34:25 PM: Quote from: JRand53 on February 09, 2004, 12:12:01 PM
Oy - I didn't git nuttin'

A common Christmas lament:

I'm Gettin' Nothin' for Christmas
(to the tune of the hoomin song by the same name)

I chewed big holes in Daddy's socks, somebody snitched on me.
I never heel while on my walks, somebody snitched on me.
I brought my mom a big old bug, then I messed up on the rug,
Look at all the holes I dug! Somebody snitched on me!
Soooo...... I'm gettin' nothin' for Christmas!
Mommy and Daddy are mad!
I'm gettin' nothin' for Christmas!
'Cause I ain't been nothin' but bad!

From the same delightful web site (http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Meadows/3389/dogsongs.htm):

Winter Wonderland

(to the tune of "Winter Wonderland")
Dog tags ring, are you listenin'?

In the lane snow is glistenin'.
It's yellow, not white - I've been there tonight,
marking up my winter wonderland.

Smell that tree? That's my fragrance
. It's a sign for wand'ring vagrants:
"Avoid where I pee, it's my property!
Marked up as my winter wonderland."

In the meadow Dad will build a snowman,
following the classical design.
Then I'll lift my leg and let it go, man,
so all the world will know it's mine-mine-mine!
Straight from me to the fencepost,
flows my natural incense boast:
"Stay off of my turf, this small piece of earth.
I mark it as my winter wonderland."

der Brucer (from his vault of useless doggerel)
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Ben on February 09, 2004, 03:35:12 PM: TCB, we believe in free expression here at HHW so if it's Pacific Overtures that you don't care for, feel free to say that. I won't jump on you and pummel you until you're unrecognizable, all the while hurling invective at you that would curl a sailor's hair. I promise ;)
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: DERBRUCER on February 09, 2004, 03:40:23 PM: Quote from: td on February 09, 2004, 12:41:12 PM
Is it the view from Pompey's head...

It is the view from his left ear.
Here is the view from the right:

(http://pic8.picturetrail.com/VOL242/891350/3691292/45353158.jpg)

der FurFaced Brucer
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Ben on February 09, 2004, 03:54:28 PM: TCB (again), I have been looking for the larger version of my avatar/profile picture and can't locate it. Anthony may have done something with it. Here's a similar picture (though not in the basement at the pool table) of us together relaxing. It was taken in October of 2000 at my sister's wedding.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 09, 2004, 04:09:43 PM: DVD space solution - Send them to me.

I just took a - gasp - nap. I've been SO tired the past few days, but haven't had much sleep during the night. I finally diagnosed my inability to work with zest and zeal to exhaustion. So I lay down for a short nap - and it was yummy. The only downside was that my faithful wonderdog also lay down. After about an hour, as we were both floating around in dreamland, he roled over on top of one of his squeak toys -- which let out the most goddawful "YEEEEEEEEEEE" I have ever heard. It's a wonder I didn't hit the ceiling and crack open my skull as I jumped up. Now I am AWAKE and ready to work.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jed on February 09, 2004, 04:22:59 PM: Quote from: Noel on February 09, 2004, 01:49:03 PM
...which I know, is an identity rather than a rhyme (cacoph... and cough). Embarrassed as I am, I know I'm the only one who'd notice it.

Unless there's people like us in the audience. :)

When I did that song for a couple of my college recitals, I used the Putting It Together version of the lyrics. Still has Aristophanes, but no pool and such.

TCB said:
Quote
Oh yes, there is one Sondheim show that I really don't care much for, but I think I will keep the name of that show to myself.

Now you've just got us all curious! As for myself, I don't care for Passion. I've tried, but simply can't get into it.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Danise on February 09, 2004, 04:24:38 PM: Evening all! Glad to see the "storm" has passed. :) I had to laugh a little to mysef because I remembered what my dad used to say when ever I got in one of the those moods. Not sure if I can repeat it here.

Jose! Did you get your pancakes this morning? No more when you join me on the diet! Not to brag but I'm 7 pounds ahead of you and counting! :)

Don't know what to say about the DVD problem. I bought a stand to keep mine in just a scant few months ago--around Turkey Day if I remember correctly--and it's already almost full. I don't buy that many DVD's, just my very favories but who knew I had so many? And with more to come!

TD--I hope all went well for your Dad. Good vibes to you both!

Jane. I also hope your doing better. I haven't been in contact because I thought you need your rest. :)

We had a fire drill at work today. We had to walk down from the 22nd floor (where I work) to the 15th and then back up. Whew. There was a LOT of huffing and puffing by the time I crawled back to my desk. My legs felt like rubber bands.

I was almost ready to get another fish but this was another example why I don't really want one. I couldn't leave it behind if something happened for real. I always had a small jar for Fish Butt and would have to catch him while everyones saying, "Get out, get out." It was a pain. This time I only had to grab my purse and go.

I felt really sorry for the gals who wear high heels. I'm sorry guys but I would NEVER wear them. 10 minutes in them and I charely horses up the wazoo. I only wear flats and those get tossed off as soon as I hit the door. I'm a bare foot kinda girl. In the winter I have a pair of heavy socks that I wear but that's as close to shoes as I get.

I'm rambling and I'm not even a Rose. :)
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jane on February 09, 2004, 04:25:37 PM: Dan-in-Toronto the painter from hell tried telling me my Dad’s condo was like a construction site & I shouldn’t be concerned about the mess he was making. I assure you, at the time, my sense of humor was long gone.

Panni thanks for the laugh. I have had similar experiences. Echo doesn’t always need a squeaky toy to startle me, she just lets out a loud snore.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jed on February 09, 2004, 04:31:47 PM: Sondheim songs... (as of 4:31pm PST 2/9/04... likely to be different at 4:32pm)

Ballad - What Can You Lose?
Comedy - A Little Priest
Others that I can't not mention - A Weekend in the Country, Color and Light, Opening Doors
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jane on February 09, 2004, 04:32:45 PM: Thanks Danise. I'm much better today and went for a walk after a six day lapse. Half of my walk is uphill so I had a good workout my first day back. The sun was shinning & it wasn't too cold.

Seven pounds-that’s great. Now that you have begun walking the stairs at work, I suggest you do it every day. Well, not all 22 floors :D, just a few to begin with, increasing a flight every week.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Danise on February 09, 2004, 04:42:52 PM: Just glad your feeling better.

I do take the mail down to the 17th floor everyday. I can't walk back up. I tried but found my knees were really starting to bother me. I had to almost dragged my right leg to the bus one day. :'(

The stairs are, alas, to rough for me.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jrand74 on February 09, 2004, 04:54:01 PM: DR MATTH - see any good movies lately?
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: S. Woody White on February 09, 2004, 05:22:30 PM: Quote from: Jane on February 09, 2004, 01:44:10 PM
You mean you took the photo?

“Here is the view from SWW's new perch” sounds to me as if it is a view from your new home. But it looks like a view of the Grand Canyon. ???
Yes, I was the cameraperson. And it was taken at the Grand Canyon. (Delaware is flat as a pancake, geographically speaking.)

Der Brucer was referring to something else in the caption.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: S. Woody White on February 09, 2004, 05:29:31 PM: Page Five Dance!

[move=right,scroll,6,transparent,100%] :D [/move]
[move=right,scroll,6,transparent,100%] :D :D [/move]
[move=right,scroll,6,transparent,100%] :D :D[/move]
[move=right,scroll,6,transparent,100%] :D :D [/move]
[move=right,scroll,6,transparent,100%] :D [/move]
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: bk on February 09, 2004, 05:45:02 PM: I'll soon be off to Disney Studios. Then I shall return to read the excellent postings.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jay on February 09, 2004, 05:45:51 PM: I shall be heading to the historic Alex Theatre in Glendale, California shortly, Dear Readers. There I shall catch the Musical Theatre Guild's one-night-only presentation of Little Mary Sunshine. I don't know a thing about it save that it is some kind of spoof of the Jeanette MacDonald/Nelson Eddy operetta genre that opened in 1959 and ran 1100 performances off-Broadway.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: bk on February 09, 2004, 05:58:20 PM: Just saw that Jason Raize, the original Simba of B'way's The Lion King committed suicide at twenty-eight years of age. I worked with Mr. Raize only once, on The Paul Simon Album (he sang The Sounds of Silence) but he was a terrific person, easy and fun to work with, and a wonderful singer.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: SwishySarah on February 09, 2004, 06:08:06 PM: Forgive me for my E+T behavior over the past few days, but there has been a bit of an overload on work and school and Camelot auditions and all that jazz. I'm really trying to get here, but I'm not making any promises. J'ai les priorities.

As far as Camelot goes, I am currently awaiting the email with the final cast list. Callbacks were fast and easy...I read for Morgan LeFaye and had a fabulous time doing it. She's such a fun character! So much to work with...and they laughed in all of the right places, making me feel good about what I was doing. I'm trying not to get my hopes up, though, because I don't want to get down if I don't end up where I'd like. I'm happy with anything...a show is a show!

Hmm...it should be coming sometime soon...

For those who are familiar with AVENUE Q, I have it on my iPod. In my English class today, we were watching Gullivers Travels, and nobody was really paying attention. My friend Ted decided to take the iPod and pick a song. I wasn't watching him, and a few minutes after he started something, he began howling with laughter. He had chosen "The Internet is for Porn." And, as you know, people speak a little louder than usual while wearing heaphones. All of the sudden, I hear "GRAB YOUR DICK AND DOUBLE CLICK!!! HAHAHA SARAH HAVE YOU HEARD THIS SONG?!!?"

My teacher promptly confinscated it, only to listen to it herself. I have an awesome English class.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: S. Woody White on February 09, 2004, 06:13:18 PM: Quote from: Jay on February 09, 2004, 05:45:51 PM
I shall be heading to the historic Alex Theatre in Glendale, California shortly, Dear Readers. There I shall catch the Musical Theatre Guild's one-night-only presentation of Little Mary Sunshine. I don't know a thing about it save that it is some kind of spoof of the Jeanette MacDonald/Nelson Eddy operetta genre that opened in 1959 and ran 1100 performances off-Broadway.
I don't remember much about Little Mary Sunshine, but I love the restoration that was done to the Alex. I worked there shortly after college when it was a film theater; it was in disasterous shape at the time, which was a shame because it was designed by the same man who designed the Egyptian Theater on Hollywood Blvd.

Have a good time!
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: td on February 09, 2004, 06:46:29 PM: Quote from: bk on February 09, 2004, 05:58:20 PM
Just saw that Jason Raize, the original Simba of B'way's The Lion King committed suicide at twenty-eight years of age. I worked with Mr. Raize only once, on The Paul Simon Album (he sang The Sounds of Silence) but he was a terrific person, easy and fun to work with, and a wonderful singer.

Now not only am I completely exhausted, having been awake at 4:30 this morning. . .but with this news, I am completely and totally depressed. . . .

Sad, sad news.

He has/had (?) a Saturday morning teevee show with animals which was quite charming.

Somewhere, I have his "Endless Night" from The Rosie O'Donnell Show on videotape. . .I might just seek it out.

:'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(

Where has the starlight gone?
Dark is the day
How can I find my way home?

Home is an empty dream
Lost to the night
Father, I feel so alone

You promised you'd be there
Whenever I needed you
Whenever I call your name
You're not anywhere

I'm trying to hold on
Just waiting to hear your voice
One word, just a word will do
To end this nightmare

When will the dawning break
Oh endless night
Sleepless I dream of the day

When you were by my side
Guiding my path
Father, I can't find the way

You promised you'd be there
Whenever I needed you
Whenever I call your name
You're not anywhere

I'm trying to hold on
Just waiting to hear your voice
One word, just a word will do
To end this nightmare

I know that the night must end
And that the sun will rise
And that the sun will rise

I know that the clouds must clear
And that the sun will shine
And that the sun will shine

I know that the night must end
And that the sun will rise
And that the sun will rise
I know that the clouds must clear
And that the sun will shine
And that the sun will shine
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: George on February 09, 2004, 06:48:57 PM: I just got home from work (by way of food). There was some kind of an accident at about 3:45 this afternoon, fairly close to where I work. We knew something happened when the power to the entire building just went off and didn't come back on. About a half hour later we found out that it was indeed an accident (I didn't hear if there were any injured/fatalities), but we were told that the power wouldn't be back on until after 7:00 p.m., so we all got to leave early. YEA! ;D To celebrate, I went to IHOP for the all-you-can-eat pancakes. Ugh. :P I ate too too (that's two toos) much. I have this annoying habit that if it's an all-you-can-eat special (for a limited time) then I must eat all that I can. I MUST STOP THE INSANITY! Anyway, I'm home and totally full.

Wasn't that exciting? Wasn't that just too too (as well as too too much)?
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 09, 2004, 06:49:34 PM: Quote from: bk on February 09, 2004, 05:58:20 PM
Just saw that Jason Raize, the original Simba of B'way's The Lion King committed suicide at twenty-eight years
How very very sad.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: td on February 09, 2004, 06:58:11 PM: February 10, 2004
Jason Raize, 28, Simba in 'The Lion King', Dies

ason Raize Rothenberg, an actor and singer who was one of the original stars of the Broadway musical "The Lion King," died on Feb. 3 in Yass, Australia, southwest of Sydney. He was 28.

The cause was suicide, said Chris Boneau, a spokesman for the Disney Company, producer of "The Lion King."

Mr. Rothenberg, who used the stage name Jason Raize, had been out of contact with his family, and it was not known whether he was living in Australia or traveling there.

He appeared as Pontius Pilate in the touring company of "Jesus Christ Superstar" before landing the role of Simba, the lion cub prince who flees his pride in disgrace but returns as an adult to avenge the death of his kingly father. He played the adult Simba for almost three years, beginning in 1997.

Last year he provided the voice of Denahi, an Ice Age boy who does battle with a bear who turns out to be his younger brother, in the Disney animated film "Brother Bear."

Mr. Rothenberg grew up in Oneonta, N.Y. He is survived by his father, Robert Rothenberg, and stepmother, Monet Rothenberg, both of Oneonta; his mother, Sarah MacArthur of Wrentham, Mass.; and a sister, Lisa Williams of Poughquag, N.Y.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jane on February 09, 2004, 07:13:27 PM: TD the words to “Endless Night” are especially moving at this moment. I feel for his family and friends. So sad.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: George on February 09, 2004, 07:17:02 PM: Quote from: bk on February 09, 2004, 05:58:20 PM
Just saw that Jason Raize, the original Simba of B'way's The Lion King committed suicide at twenty-eight years of age. I worked with Mr. Raize only once, on The Paul Simon Album (he sang The Sounds of Silence) but he was a terrific person, easy and fun to work with, and a wonderful singer.

:'( 28 is too damn young for anyone to die...especially by suicide. I really enjoyed his voice.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: George on February 09, 2004, 07:23:11 PM: Quote from: Noel on February 09, 2004, 01:49:03 PM
Part of my work today was rewriting a Sondheim lyric. A cabaret I'm doing on the 23rd is to begin with Invocation and Instructions to the audience. Since there's no point in referring to Aristophanes when the song is done out of the context of the original show, I changed it to

Please don't cough,
And turn the goddamn cellphones off.
You mustn't add to our cacophonies
So please, don't cough.

...which I know, is an identity rather than a rhyme (cacoph... and cough). Embarrassed as I am, I know I'm the only one who'd notice it.

Noel (and anyone else), what exactly is an "identity" as opposed to a "rhyme?" Sondheim has used that term and I can't find a specific definition in regards to writing...and just so that it'll help me remember, what might be some other examples?

Quote from: Jane on February 09, 2004, 03:19:49 PM
http://www.goenglish.com/ThePotCallingTheKettleBlack.asp
The Pot Calling The Kettle Black ( to say something about someone else which is actually true of you yourself ... )

Jane, thanks for the info...and the link. That's a pretty cool site. I bookmarked it, too.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: td on February 09, 2004, 07:24:47 PM: Quote from: Jane on February 09, 2004, 07:13:27 PM
TD the words to “Endless Night” are especially moving at this moment. I feel for his family and friends. So sad.

"Any man's death diminishes me, because I am involved in Mankind; And therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee."
-- John Donne
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: JoseSPiano on February 09, 2004, 07:42:33 PM: Good evening!

Well, it's my final night in Memphis, and it was the final day of auditions. Not a bad day. And we were done by 4:30!! And, again, I had no callbacks tonight, so... A friend of mine - with a rental car - decided to head out to do some shopping and get some dinner. We stopped at this cool, little, funky store and cafe called Otherlands. A little bit everything - incense, fridge magnets, postcards, handmade jewelry, etc. However, I did not sample any of the delicious looking goodies in the cafe. BUT... We headed over to Dinstuhl's Candies, which is a Memphis institution. I picked up a few boxes of their Cashew Crunch (cashew brittle that's coated in coconut!) and some chocolate bars for friends back home. OH, and I also got a box of their yummilicious chocolate-covered grapes! Michael and I shared the box on the car ride over to the our dinner destination. We headed over to McAllister's which is a sandwich chain. My first time there. I ended up getting one of their "stuffed spuds" with roast beef, cheddar and gravy. Very good. -Oh, and I got a cup of vegetable soup. Also very good.

So... Now I'm back in my hotel room just checking on the e-mail, reading HHW, etc...

Sondheim songs: As everyone else has stated, there's not much I don't like, and my list could change from minute to minute, but for now...

Favorite Ballad: "Lesson #8" and/or "Finishing the Hat".

Favorite Comedy Song: "A Little Priest" - oh, and even though it's not really a true comedy song, I also like "Franklin Shepherd, Inc."

Favorite Lyric: Without a doubt - "The choice may have been mistaken, the choosing was not. Move On." -Truly a life changing line for me. So profound.

Well, I'm going to head down to the bar for some fellowship, schmoozing, commiserating,networking, relaxing, chilling, socializing... oh and some drinking. Big Boy Drink(s) too!

I'll try to check back in before turning in tonight, but I have to be up early to get to the airport - at least it's not a too early flight - so...

Be back later... which may be later tonight, tomorrow morning, or tomorrow afternoon...

OH - DR Danise - I start tomorrow... Let the games begin! ;)
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: JoseSPiano on February 09, 2004, 07:45:12 PM: OH, OH, OH - that's three "OHs"...

My friend Michael was talking with one of his fellow auditionees last night, and she happened to mention that she "knows" me from this here website! From HHW!!! So...

Stacy - Come out, come out wherever you are! -And post! ;) *Hope you had a good time in Memphis too.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: td on February 09, 2004, 07:49:20 PM: http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/business/20040206-9999_1b6tower.html (http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/business/20040206-9999_1b6tower.html)

Tower Records also goes away. . .
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: S. Woody White on February 09, 2004, 08:04:32 PM: Interesting about Tower. Der Brucer and I stopped by a couple of the Tower/Good Guys merged stores, called "WOW", before leaving California. (One was in Glendale CA, the other in Long Beach.) The Tower halves of the stores seemed to be doing well, if overpriced, but the Good Guys halves were obviously closing down.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: SwishySarah on February 09, 2004, 08:15:10 PM: I am officially Morgan LeFaye. I saw the email and started to cry :). I've never actually HAD a role before, so to go from the chorus to a lead is amazing...I'm completely shocked.

I feel the urge to SCREAM but everyone's asleep...oh, well.

This is perfect :)!
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Matt H. on February 09, 2004, 08:16:13 PM: One thing folks tend to forget about SUNSET BLVD. It has never been a commercial success. The movie did not do particularly well in 1950. Neither the London nor the Broadway versions earned anywhere near their capitalizations back.

The story is dark, weird, unforgettably sad and not a feel-good experience. Those kinds of stories tend not to be popular successes. I don't see a movie version of the musical doing anything differently and making the story somehow now something that the general populace is going to want to see.

Now, don't get me wrong. I LOVE the origianl film. Think it's a masterpiece, but it works because Gloria Swanson WAS a silent movie legend, and people could believe completely that she understood what she was acting. For all they knew, Gloria and Norma were the same person plus you had all those people Gloria had worked with: Von Stroheim, DeMille, Hopper, H.B. Warner, Keaton. No new film, especially one done no doubt in color, is going to be able to capture that period and those people. It's going to look fake, fake, fake. I predict a tremendous box-office bomb if it gets done at all.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: td on February 09, 2004, 08:18:57 PM: Quote from: SwishySarah on February 09, 2004, 08:15:10 PM
I am officially Morgan LeFaye. I saw the email and started to cry :). I've never actually HAD a role before, so to go from the chorus to a lead is amazing...I'm completely shocked.

I feel the urge to SCREAM but everyone's asleep...oh, well.

This is perfect :)!

Scream if you want to! It's wonderful news and a wonderful role (IMHO).
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: George on February 09, 2004, 08:22:14 PM: Quote from: SwishySarah on February 09, 2004, 08:15:10 PM
I am officially Morgan LeFaye. I saw the email and started to cry :). I've never actually HAD a role before, so to go from the chorus to a lead is amazing...I'm completely shocked.

I feel the urge to SCREAM but everyone's asleep...oh, well.

This is perfect :)!

Contratulations!!
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: td on February 09, 2004, 08:22:25 PM: Hey! I just looked at the time: where in tarnation is Tomovoz?
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jennifer on February 09, 2004, 08:31:27 PM: That is so sad about Jason. I loved him in The Lion King.

http://www.broadway.com/template_1.asp?CI=33877&CT=38

Congrats Danise!

And congrats Swishy!
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: George on February 09, 2004, 08:33:03 PM: Quote from: Jed on February 09, 2004, 04:22:59 PM
TCB said:Now you've just got us all curious! As for myself, I don't care for Passion. I've tried, but simply can't get into it.

I would really like to see this done as a chamber opera in a small opera house sung by people with operatic voices being watched by an audience expecting an opera...just because. I like opera and I like Passion. There isn't any Sondheim show that I don't like...not that I've seen them all, but I have recordings of all his shows...and then some.

As for the topic of the day...here we go:

Favorite Sondheim (F. S.) ballads: "What Can You Lose," "Beautiful," "I Wish I Could Forget You," "No One Is Alone," "Not a Day Goes By," "Send in the Clowns," "So Many People," "Water Under the Bridge," "With So Little to Be Sure Of"

F. S. comedy songs: "Bring Me My Bride," "Can That Boy Foxtrot!" "Free," "Getting Married Today," "I Never Do Anything Twice," "A Little Priest," "A Parade in Town," "Pretty Little Picture," "That Dirty Old Man," "There's Always a Woman," "We're Gonna Be All Right," "You Gotta Get a Gimmick"

F. S. uptempo: "Opening Doors," Someone In a Tree," "The Miller's Son," "Tonight (Quintet)," "A Weekend In the Country"

all-time F. S. lyrics: "Move On," "No One Is Alone"

all-time F. S. rhyme:
From the depths of her interior
Were fears she was inferior
And something even eerier
But no one dared to query 'er
Superior
Exterior

absolute, all-time F. S. songs: "Someone In a Tree," "Move On," "You're Gonna Love Tomorrow/Love Will See Us Through," "A Little Priest," "Please Hello," "Poems," "Pretty Lady," "The Road You Didn't Take," "Tonight (Quintet)," "Waiting for the Girls Upstairs," "A Weekend In the Country"

Most intriguing song title that's never been recorded: "The Lay of a Gay Young Man" ;) from the abandoned 1953 Climb High (http://www.geocities.com/sondheimguide/unproduced.html#Climb)
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Laura II on February 09, 2004, 08:36:29 PM: Sarah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Congratulations, my lil sis!!!!! I'm so immensely proud of you! :D Please forward the cast list to me. :)

Sondheim lyric (as of this second): "You think what do you want? You think: make a decision."

Sondheim songs (as of this second): "You," "On the Steps of the Palace," "No One is Alone," "Some People," "Tonight," "If Momma Was Married"
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 09, 2004, 08:39:10 PM: Can't stop thinking about poor Jason Raize. Why would someone so young and talented do something like that? And if one thing had been different at that moment, would he still be alive? A kind word from a stranger, a phone call from a friend...
I only ever came close once to doing something like that. I was a young actress, on tour in some strange city. Alone late at night in my hotel room, bad show that evening, big fight with my boyfriend, feeling untalented, unloved, really depressed. So much had gone wrong that particular night, and every bad thing that had ever happened to me just washed over me... everything seemed hopeless. I went to the medicine cabinet and all I could find was... a bottle of anti-diarrhea medicine! It's funny now - but back then, if I'd found a bottle of Tylenol (which I usually had) or something like it, I would've taken it. So I went to bed, crying but still very much alive and within a few hours things turned around. Boyfriend apologized, had a great show the next night, got a radio commercial in that city while still on tour, etc.
This is a very personal story - and I have never told it before "in public"... The only reason I'm doing it now is that there are so many younger people on this site who are under a great deal of pressure from school, jobs, relationships, whatever. I just want to use this as an example of how things do get better, how they can really get great, if you just ride it out. I've had such a terrific life. A wonderful child, a fulfilling career, so many friends, and I've made a difference in the world through my work and my relationships. But if I'd found something other than the silly anti-diarrhea stuff -- none of that would've happened.
That's my sermon for tonight, kids. In memory of young Jason Raize.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 09, 2004, 08:42:00 PM: Congratulations on the role, Swishy!
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Kerry on February 09, 2004, 08:54:51 PM: Congratulations to Sarah. We all share in your delight.

td-- glad to hear the good news. Hope the news keeps getting better.

Favorite Sondheim--

Without dividing it into categories, I guess mine would be:

"The Road You Didn't Take"
"Would I Leave You?"
"Anyone can Whistle"
"Everybody Says Don't"
"Losing My Mind"
"Gotta have a Gimmick"
"Some People"
"Children Will Listen"
"No One is Alone"
"Buddy's Blues"
"The Little Things You Do Together"
and "Sorry/Grateful"

Tooo many more......

Thanks Tomovoz, Mbarnum and MattH and Dr Laura and DR Sandra. MY HHW family is truly special.

I think Jose should come out here for a visit. All of you should !!!!!!
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 09, 2004, 08:59:58 PM: Quote from: Kerry on February 09, 2004, 08:54:51 PM
I think Jose should come out here for a visit. All of you should !!!!!!

Great idea. Arizona or bust! (Will that get past the 5 minute delay?)
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Noel on February 09, 2004, 09:03:04 PM: To understand what an identity is, isolate the rhyming syllables.

That's what they call me
So Lauren Bacall me

is not a rhyme, it's an identity. The rhyming syllables are call me and call me.

The author of such should have his poetic license revoked.

perspire/inspire/spire - not rhymes, but identities

Congratulations (which doesn't rhyme with jubilations) to Swishy Sarah la Fay
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Tomovoz on February 09, 2004, 09:04:10 PM: Quote from: JRand53 on February 09, 2004, 10:59:39 AM
Sorry, I don't appreciate Mr Patinkin - although I like the movie about his battleship.
I know I am late on board but this must surely be the funniest line of the day. Thanks JRand.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: MBarnum on February 09, 2004, 09:04:29 PM: Wow Swishers! Your time has come! It is your turn in the limelight!

A giant congrats to you!! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: MBarnum on February 09, 2004, 09:05:23 PM: Quote from: Tomovoz on February 09, 2004, 09:04:10 PM
I know I am late on board but this must surely be the funniest line of the day. Thanks JRand.

It is! And I can't believe I missed it the first time around! LOL! Just cracked me up!
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: TCB on February 09, 2004, 09:15:28 PM: Quote from: Ben on February 09, 2004, 03:35:12 PM
TCB, we believe in free expression here at HHW so if it's Pacific Overtures that you don't care for, feel free to say that. I won't jump on you and pummel you until you're unrecognizable, all the while hurling invective at you that would curl a sailor's hair. I promise ;)

No, actually I like Pacific Overtures.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: S. Woody White on February 09, 2004, 09:18:51 PM: Quote from: Panni on February 09, 2004, 08:39:10 PM
Can't stop thinking about poor Jason Raize. Why would someone so young and talented do something like that? And if one thing had been different at that moment, would he still be alive? A kind word from a stranger, a phone call from a friend...
I only ever came close once to doing something like that. I was a young actress, on tour in some strange city. Alone late at night in my hotel room, bad show that evening, big fight with my boyfriend, feeling untalented, unloved, really depressed. So much had gone wrong that particular night, and every bad thing that had ever happened to me just washed over me... everything seemed hopeless...
With that, DR Panni, you've come closer than most to understanding what can happen. Three key phrases struck me here: "Alone late at night"..."feeling untalented, unloved, really depressed"... and "Every bad thing that had ever happened to me just washed over me."

Depression is the monster, with those feelings of being "un". Unloved, untalented, unable to do things right, un everything. This can cycle through to "Every bad thing...washed over me." Not just washed, but floods. And then there is that first word, "Alone." That can be the most frightening thing of all, not knowing how to turn to anyone for help, even being afraid that they won't recognize someone in need.

We've discussed this before, the severe depression I went through shortly after arriving in Delaware, in early November. And these were the things I was going through, emotionally. It took all of my willpower to remember that there would be a morning, that things could get better. And as terrified as I was, I was able to reach out, to der Brucer (just as alone on the other coast), and then to get medical help.

This is one of the reasons people should keep in mind that depression is an illness. It is nothing to be ashamed of, although it feels shamefull at the time. There is help that can be found. Having a telephone handy, and reaching to a hotline, can be one way of breaking through. Not being alone is essential.

My heart aches, not only for Jason Raize but for his family as well.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: TCB on February 09, 2004, 09:23:20 PM: Quote from: Ben on February 09, 2004, 03:54:28 PM
TCB (again), I have been looking for the larger version of my avatar/profile picture and can't locate it. Anthony may have done something with it. Here's a similar picture (though not in the basement at the pool table) of us together relaxing. It was taken in October of 2000 at my sister's wedding.

Thanks for posting the photo, Ben, its wonderful!
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Matt H. on February 09, 2004, 09:26:12 PM: It IS a great photo, DR Ben, and thanks for sharing. Enjoyed the earlier Grand Canyon shots, too, DR derBrucer.

Time to bid all a good night.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Tomovoz on February 09, 2004, 09:28:19 PM: Congratulations Sarah. "Fey" An enchanting role.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: bk on February 09, 2004, 09:58:13 PM: I'm back. Must eat a salad now, I'm starving.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 09, 2004, 10:03:56 PM: Thank you for your post SWW. I was beginning to have doubts about "sharing" (how I hate what that word has become) that story. But now I'm so glad. I'm also glad to have you as a friend. Although we've never met, probably never will, I hope I can consider you that.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: TCB on February 09, 2004, 10:04:48 PM: Congratulations, Swishy!

Very good news, td!

Keep up the good work, Danise!

I guess none of us ever really know what demons haunt the people around us, even those to whom we think we are the closest. What might seem to be the tiniest gesture of kindness on our part, could easily turn out to be the all-important helping hand to someone else.

Good night all.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jed on February 09, 2004, 10:07:51 PM: Congrats to SwishySarah!!!

Alright, TCB, I'm guessing SITPWG as the Sondheim that leaves you flat.

Patinkin - Sure, I make fun of him as much as anybody, but I do enjoy the guy, and have 5 or 6 of his CDs.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: bk on February 09, 2004, 10:41:54 PM: I've ingested my salad and feel better.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 09, 2004, 10:44:59 PM: Just had a nasty experience. Went out to the corner Coffe Bean to get a caramel coffee drink -- my treat for the night. When I went in I saw a homeless man sitting on the pavement, just shrunken into himself, reading a book. I've seen him before. He doesn't ask for money, he just sits there reading. When I came out he was still there. I asked him if he could use a dollar and gave it to him. He looked really surprised and said,"Thank you. Bless you." When I got in my car I started to cry, thinking about his life and wondering how he got there. (I'm in the middle of writing something about a homeless woman, so I've been thinking about it a lot.) I backed up really slowly and pulled out of the lot. As I was about to go into the street, this kid with pierces in his lip jumped in front of me, waving his arms. I pulled down my window and he said, "You can't hit and run! Come back!" I didn't know what the hell he was talking about. He iaid, "You hit us and now you're trying to get away!" I drove back into the lot. There was a security guard watching the whole thing and other people there. Anyway, this smartass kid claimed I had hit their truck - not a mark on the truck - except some tiny dents in the back rubber section which were not fresh. The kid said, "Are you drunk or on drugs or something? If you didn't hit us how come you're crying?" When I told them I was crying because I felt badly for the homeless man they laughed at me. Anyway, it's too boring to relate the whole thing. They (the kid and two girls) were really obnoxious and eventually drove off after writing down my plate number (I refused to give them my name). I got the security guard's name and number in case I needed it and some women parked next to the kids said they were lying. But still it shook me up.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 09, 2004, 10:50:07 PM: Quote from: TCB on February 09, 2004, 10:04:48 PM
I guess none of us ever really know what demons haunt the people around us, even those to whom we think we are the closest. What might seem to be the tiniest gesture of kindness on our part, could easily turn out to be the all-important helping hand to someone else.

Amen!
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: DearReaderLaura on February 09, 2004, 10:52:52 PM: DR Panni -- You are such a good woman with such a good heart. You are in my prayers.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 09, 2004, 10:53:30 PM: How was the workshop, bk? Or is that tomorrow's Notes?
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 09, 2004, 10:54:20 PM: Thank you, DRLaura.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: JoseSPiano on February 09, 2004, 10:55:18 PM: DR SwishySarah - Congratulations! I will do my best to get the "stuff" in the mail to you Wednesday morning.

DR Kerry - I would love to come out to Arizona - I've only seen it through the windows of a touring bus.

DRs SWW and Panni - Thank you for sharing.

-I had a nice time down at the bar tonight. Always nice catching up with people. Always nice catching up with some singers who I wanted to catch up with after their auditions. And always nice to be complimented and "worshipped". ;) It's nice when the pats on the back - literal and otherwise - don't have to come from myself. *It was also nice sharing some "tales" from the past few days with some of the company reps. ;)

All in all, it was another nice set of auditions. And, as much as some people can't believe it, I actually like playing auditions. Who knows what recessive gene is responsible for that?!?!? And I'm still amazed at times just how "good" I can be when someone questionable is singing - I would love one day to have a webcam mounted right above the music rack so I could see my face while I'm playing - and listening. Could be interesting, very interesting.

OK - I need to pack (well, re-pack), and get some sleep...

Goodnight.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jay on February 09, 2004, 10:56:10 PM: What an unsettling experience, Panni. I hope you will find a diversion this evening to help you shake it.

Your words about Jason Raize and your own experience were quite moving, as was your response, Dear Reader S Woody White.

Sometimes I wish I had a magic wand that could wipe away all the ickiness in the world (including the people who cause it, like those horrible kids this evening) and replace it with love and joy.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Tomovoz on February 09, 2004, 10:56:57 PM: I am really at a loss for words Panni. "Compassion" may be the one I want. Have our young become so desensitised and what drives them to such actions? I feel for you and the incident makes me sad. May your sleep be peaceful.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jay on February 09, 2004, 10:57:53 PM: Swish! You sing, therefore you rock! Congratulations on getting the part. You will be, I know, the best Morgan LeFaye EVER!
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Tomovoz on February 09, 2004, 11:01:34 PM: DR Kerry: "Is anybody going to San Antone or Phoenix Arizona?". Who knows? Maybe 2005 as we could well have the Canyon on our list.
Thanks for your Freddy Gardner thoughts. I guess I have other people's 78prm discs to thank. "Japanese Sandman" somehow made its way in to my childhood when we were storing a gramophone for a friend of my parents.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: bk on February 09, 2004, 11:03:48 PM: Jay, how was the show? Who was in it?

Panni, your life is DRAMA itself.

ASCAP thought will be in tomorrow's notes.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 09, 2004, 11:05:56 PM: Quote from: Tomovoz on February 09, 2004, 10:56:57 PM
I am really at a loss for words Panni. "Compassion" may be the one I want.

A dear friend of mine is writing a book about compassion. He's been traveling all over the world, interviewing all sorts of people - including a man who's not only forgiven but befriended the murderer of his son; another man who donated his kidney to a total stranger. He's even done research on "compassion" among apes and other animals. It's truly a fascinating subject. And, thank goodness, there's more of it in the world than one would suspect. When the book comes out (next year probably) I'll let you know.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 09, 2004, 11:08:45 PM: Quote from: bk on February 09, 2004, 11:03:48 PM
Panni, your life is DRAMA itself.

Everybody's life is DRAMA itself, bk. I just happen to write about it because that's what I do.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Donna on February 09, 2004, 11:08:50 PM: Quote
I MUST STOP THE INSANITY!

I recently saw Susan Powter on the Wayne Brady show. She hasn't been in the public eye for quite a while and it was surprising to see her.

After she was introduced, she came onstage and within seconds was up on her feet speaking to the audience as she used to do at her seminars and in her infomercials. Meanwhile, Wayne (who knew he was losing control of the show) sits in shock. When Susan--still talking--moves out into the audience, Wayne slowly gets up from his chair and withers into the wings.

When he comes back, Susan is in his chair--still talking. Wayne sits in the guest's chair and, without saying a word, eventually curls up into the fetal position. Susan continues to talk then stands up and shouts "STOP THE INSANITY!"one last time and leaves the stage.

They go to commercial.

Like a whirlwind that woman is.

It was hilarious and, I'm certain, completely unrehearsed.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Charles Pogue on February 09, 2004, 11:11:26 PM: Dvd storage wouldn't be a problem...if it weren't for all the damned video tapes.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jay on February 09, 2004, 11:11:41 PM: Obviously, I have returned from Little Mary Sunshine. One tends to walk away from Musical Theatre Guild performances with one of two reactions. It's either "Why don't they revive that more often?" or "I know why they don't revive that more often." Sunshine, Dear Readers, falls into the latter category. It's certainly harmless, though, and does have its enjoyable moments. With book, music and lyrics by Rick Besoyan, it is, indeed, a parody of the Eddy/MacDonald style operettas. The music sounds like a tongue-in-cheek version of Romberg and Friml and others of that ilk. The parts are all unidimensional caricatures and the plot, what there is, is plain silly. Miss Teri Bibb has a nice soprano voice and handled the title role admirably.

Before the show, I ran into Miss Teri Ralston, and was able to congratulate her on the Follies she directed and in which she starred down in Orange County a couple of weeks ago.

I also chatted a bit with Miss Misty Cotton. She asked that I send you her regards, Dear BK, and, with this post, so I do.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 09, 2004, 11:12:52 PM: Quote from: Donna on February 09, 2004, 11:08:50 PM
I recently saw Susan Powter

Does she still look the same - short "white" hair, etc.?
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 09, 2004, 11:15:26 PM: DR Jay - Are you going to see Debbie and John in LOVE LETTERS?
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 09, 2004, 11:16:09 PM: I'm the Question Lady all of a sudden?
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Tomovoz on February 09, 2004, 11:19:52 PM: A woman of questionable character again Panni? Wanton? Whoops! Questioning character. Sorry.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 09, 2004, 11:21:42 PM: You SHOULD be sorry, Tomovoz, for bringing up "wanton" again.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jay on February 09, 2004, 11:23:31 PM: Quote from: Panni on February 09, 2004, 11:15:26 PM
DR Jay - Are you going to see Debbie and John in LOVE LETTERS?

I'm taking a pass on this. My dance card is just too full these days, and I will be out of town this weekend.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: George on February 09, 2004, 11:23:51 PM: Quote from: Panni on February 09, 2004, 11:08:45 PM
Everybody's life is DRAMA itself, bk. I just happen to write about it because that's what I do.

But you, Dear Reader/Writer Panni, have the ability and desire to write about it and the talent skill to write quite eloquently, certainly much more than I do.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 09, 2004, 11:25:28 PM: I shouldn't have taken a nap earlier today. Now I'm SO awake. My mind's too zonked to write, though. So I can't make creative use of all this energy.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Jay on February 09, 2004, 11:25:34 PM: And on that note (b#), I bid adieu to yieu and yieu and yieu.

Sweet dreams, all.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 09, 2004, 11:26:38 PM: Quote from: Jay on February 09, 2004, 11:23:31 PM
I'm taking a pass on this. My dance card is just too full these days, and I will be out of town this weekend.

Too bad. I was hoping for a review.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: bk on February 09, 2004, 11:35:17 PM: Panni IS drama itself. This is not a criticism, it is a statement. I never criticize (well, I did this evening at Disney), I merely make statements.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 09, 2004, 11:35:54 PM: Quote from: George on February 09, 2004, 11:23:51 PM
But you, Dear Reader/Writer Panni, have the ability and desire to write about it and the talent skill to write quite eloquently, certainly much more than I do.

We all have different things we're good at, DR George. My point was that it's not just my life that's "dramatic." I was once teaching a week-long writing Master Class. One of the participants was the head of the Screenwriting Department at some university who was supposedly a writer. The first morning I remarked that everyone had an interesting story if you looked hard enough. He commented that most people's stories are not interesting enough to be told. Why would anyone want to know the stories of "ordinary" people? This pissed me off and I told him that if he had such an elitist view of the world, he shouldn't call himself a writer. We had words and he never came back to the class. I wasn't sorry.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Tomovoz on February 09, 2004, 11:36:30 PM: Good night from OZ as well.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 09, 2004, 11:37:51 PM: Quote from: bk on February 09, 2004, 11:35:17 PM
Panni IS drama itself. This is not a criticism, it is a statement. I never criticize (well, I did this evening at Disney), I merely make statements.

I didn't take it as a criticism, dear bk. I was merely replying to your statement.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: bk on February 09, 2004, 11:42:15 PM: I feel that Panni's life needs more HUMOR in it. I also told her that the minute these creeps tried to tell her she'd done something she hadn't, she should have called the police right then and there to arbitrate. Believe me, the creeps would have been in their truck and out of there in ten seconds flat.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: bk on February 09, 2004, 11:46:37 PM: I need one of them little Japanese geishas to come over right now and step on my back, which is killing me large.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 09, 2004, 11:51:33 PM: Quote from: bk on February 09, 2004, 11:42:15 PM
I feel that Panni's life needs more HUMOR in it.

Why did the chicken cross the road?

...To catch the woman who hit and ran.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 09, 2004, 11:56:25 PM: Here's the punks' idea of humor: After they had accused me of hitting them and fleeing and of being drunk or on drugs, I said (yeah, I know I shouldn't have said anything)..."I'm an xx year-old professional woman. You think I'd hit your truck, start crying and make a run for it?"
The punk looks at me and says, "So you're a professional?" And his little punk friends in the truck roar with laughter.
It's not often I go out for a coffee and get accused of being a hit-and-run driver, drunk, on drugs AND being a prostitute.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: bk on February 09, 2004, 11:56:30 PM: I need one of them little Japanese geishas to step on my back.
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: DERBRUCER on February 10, 2004, 12:01:49 AM: DOES THIS MAKE 200 FOR OUR DEAR BK?
Title: Re:GIRDING MY LOINS
Post by: Panni on February 10, 2004, 12:02:44 AM: I think bk needs a Japanese geisha to step on him.