Jun, 01
2023
Entertainment, Free News Articles, Regional Events

Art-In-Relation Presents an Unforgettable Evening Concert of Spirituals, Freedom Songs, and Contemporary Songs of Freedom in reflection of Juneteenth

LONG BEACH, Calif. -- Art-In-Relation (A.I.R.) is proud to present a special evening concert, in collaboration with Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, featuring a group of exceptional performers. This talented ensemble will come together to deliver an inspiring musical experience. With a repertoire that reflects the significance of Juneteenth and embraces a message of change and freedom, this concert promises to be a memorable celebration.

The concert will take place on June 24 at 7 p.m., hosted within the tranquil ambiance of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, located at 370 Junipero Avenue in Long Beach. This captivating event will undoubtedly captivate the hearts and minds of all in attendance.

The performers for this extraordinary concert are a group of highly skilled professionals with diverse backgrounds, including Broadway, opera, and professional choral music. Their collective talent, coupled with their deep understanding of the music they perform, ensures a powerful and moving experience for the audience.

"I am thrilled to share as a singer some of the most beautiful music in the world, born from bondage and pain yet transcending the pain to offer healing," says Joel Brown, performer and communication assistant for the program.

The program also includes the remarkable talents of Aleta Braxton, Gertrude Bradley, Joel Brown, Jessica Elisabeth, Edward Little, Toni Lorene, Jim MacClaine, Raymond Jamarillo McLeod, Jonas Edwin Sills, and. Yolanda Mitchell West. James Calhoun will be playing organ and piano. Special guest instrumentalists David Sills, Saxophone, and Benton Preciado on Cello will play on certain pieces.

Jonas and Heidi Sills, founders of Art-In-Relation were proud to have produced almost two dozen productions of theater and music over five years. After a pandemic hiatus, and witnessing the continuing social struggles firsthand from their downtown Long Beach office and home, A.I.R. is returning with a enhanced social as well as artistic mission.

"Art-In-Relation is thrilled to collaborate with Our Saviour's Lutheran Church to bring this exceptional concert to the Long Beach community," said Heidi Ornelas Sills, outreach director for the concert.

"Through the power of music, we aim to honor Juneteenth's significance while advocating for inclusivity, social change, and the continuing struggle of freedom," adds Jonas Edwin Sills.

TICKETS:

Tickets for this transformative event are available now and can be obtained by calling 562-243-2423.

A suggested donation of $20 is encouraged, with proceeds donated to "The Juneteenth Project," Art-In-Relation and Our Saviour's Lutheran Church music program.

Don't miss this opportunity to be a part of an extraordinary evening that celebrates the struggles of the past, acknowledges the challenges of the present, and inspires hope for the future. Join us on June 24th, 7:00PM at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church for a concert that will resonate within your soul, reminding us all of the enduring power of freedom.

INFORMATION:

LEARN MORE: http://www.artinrelation.com/

For more information, media inquiries and tickets please contact:

Name: Heidi Ornelas Sills

Title: Sales and Outreach, Art-In-Relation

Email: heidiosills@yahoo.com

Phone: 562-243-2423

Tickets sold in advance will include a free beverage and snack.

ABOUT ART-IN-RELATION:

Art-In-Relation is a dynamic production company dedicated to producing innovative and engaging performing arts experiences. With a commitment to artistic excellence, community engagement, and social impact, Art-In-Relation collaborates with local organizations and venues to bring transformative performances to diverse audiences.

Now in its rise after the world pandemic, Art-In-Relation's mission is creating community through the arts. Breathing "A.I.R." and new energy into the community by creating unique concerts, musical works, events, theatrical presentations, and unique multi- disciplinary genres! A.I.R. has an affinity and history with "Broadway Style" Musical Theatre, but it its current incarnation is focusing on "concert style performances."

A.I.R. is committed to encouraging relation between professionals, aspiring, and talented amateurs to work together in a collaborative environment ALL learning from and respecting each other. A.I.R. is dedicated to quality performances that create lasting relationships, that go far beyond individual productions. We are led to create new, never before seen works of art, and also traditional performances with a modern or new flair. We challenge you to not only be entertained, but educated, enriched, and even enlightened.

LEARN MORE: http://www.artinrelation.com/.

Related link: http://www.artinrelation.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

May, 19
2023
Business, Education and Schools, Free News Articles, Product Launches

Shattering Barriers in Fine Arts Education: The Vocal Gym Unveils World’s First Full-Credit Homeschool Course for Singing

ORLANDO, Fla. -- Throga announces a new online course for singing, specifically designed for homeschool students. Singing has long been considered outside the scope of most homeschool training, as the intricacies of the arts and technical complexities involved in vocal training present particular challenges in a home learning environment.

But now Richard Fink IV, a vocalist recognized by Guinness World Records and named "world's leading online vocal coach" by the Wall Street Journal, is set to redefine the terrain.

His revolutionary approach to vocal training will launch as the world's first ever full-credit homeschool course for singing. The course, the Vocal Gym by Throga, will be released at the FPEA Florida Homeschool Convention in Orlando on May 25th, 2023 to make singing readily accessible to all, especially homeschoolers.

Taking a scientific approach, Fink methodically dissected the voice, demystifying this instrument we cannot touch or see, and making it as teachable as any other tangible instrument. The patented technique he developed involves breaking down the voice into the 7 Dimensions of Singing: flexibility of the vocal folds, breath management, intonation for pitch control, vocal range, tonal quality, articulation of sound, and strength in maintaining vocal stability and stamina.

The course aims to spark creativity, nurture cognitive development, enhance emotional well-being, and promote self-expression and critical thinking skills. Homeschoolers can now refine their vocal skills, explore the thrill of performance, and earn a full fine arts credit, on their own time and wherever they live across the country.

Tailored for ages 12 and up, the curriculum starts with a personal vocal assessment and provides an individualized learning experience that helps students pinpoint their strengths and areas for improvement. The course boasts a rich resource of 115,000 vocal exercise combinations, over 300 educational videos, and more than 150 hours of lessons, exercises, and activities. The Vocal Gym also offers a parent portal, enabling easy tracking of student progress through automated record-keeping, taking the stress out of lesson planning.

"The course isn't just for students interested in a career in the performing arts, it can be for any student who wants to learn how to sing or to talk more confidently by using their instrument, their voice, in a much better way," said Peggy Ployhar, founder and CEO of SPED Homeschool. With performance and writing assignments and even scientific principles that can be credited for additional hours, "the Vocal Gym truly covers it all," she said. "No matter what type of learner your student is, there are text, audio, video, diagrams, and activities for them to be engaged in."

This pioneering initiative marks a significant step in enriching homeschool education, arming students with the necessary tools to cultivate essential communication and stage skills for a successful future.

To learn more, visit: https://throga.com/homeschool/

- Vocal Gym Logo: https://throga.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/vocalgym-logo-color.png

- Promotional Image: https://throga.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/VG-Product.jpg

- Testimonial Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ebA5CDLLV4

Related link: https://throga.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

May, 17
2023
Entertainment, Free News Articles

‘GOSPEL SOUL OF ELVIS’ wows crowds in Mineola Texas

MINEOLA, Texas -- Elvis Presley is a state of mind. Mark Rios would be the first person to tell you this. Rios is a lifelong fan of The King. But it wasn't until relatively recently that this North Texas actor and director was able to converge his acting and directing careers and dedicate them to exploring his long-standing dream of exploring Elvis Presley's spiritual side.

This dream came together in his new traveling play, "The Gospel Soul of Elvis."

After debuting in Dallas, Rios and crew performed the play at the oldest continuously operating theatre in Texas - the historic Lake Country Playhouse, 114 N. Johnson St in Mineola.

The cast included Rios, Mary Lee Gonzalez, Malik Johnson, Randy Burk, Dasiana Preston, Olivia Simms, Ben Tinsley, and J. Douglas Barker.

The show ran in Mineola for three days April 28-30 to much acclaim.

Neita Fran Ward, ART CONNECTION OF EAST TEXAS, said she really appreciated what the cast did with the performance.

"Every Elvis fan has heard the gospel songs Elvis loved and performed,' she said. "Mark Rios and his backup music group thoughtfully transported the audience back into the music and stories of The King of Rock and Roll with their performance in a relaxed and casual setting. Great voices and entertaining stories."

A friend and colleague of Rios, Victor Rjesnjansky ("Slick Vic" from the hit A&E TV series "Storage Wars Texas") was also impressed.

"Not being a huge fan of Elvis, this was a look into his life from a different venue - hanging out in his penthouse after the show with all his friends," Rjesnjansky said.

Rjesnjansky said it was educational to find out these things about Elvis. "I found myself riveted with interest during the whole show after speaking with creator Mark Rios," he said. "Mark informed me that every show is a little different with little tweaks here and there."

"Definitely worth the trip to see the show. I give it five stars," Rjesnjansky said.

Indeed, Rios has carried the idea for the show around for some time. But it was only in recent months that he transformed his idea into "full-on musical reality."

A lot of Mark's colleagues know him as a great local actor whose mobster show "A Family Thing," is really starting to catch fire on several venues.

But up until recently, not many heard Rios say a word about an Elvis show.

Ben Tinsley, Rios' assistant director and the actor who plays Col. Parker in the show, was initially quite surprised. "Mark called me one day, talking about a stage show with him playing Elvis, and I was like, 'Do WHAT?'" Tinsley said.

Tinsley, like Rjesnjansky, had never before experienced an Elvis-related show. But Tinsley knew a winner when he saw it. He said it was an honor to be asked to join the cast as Col. Parker.

"When I first saw Mark do Elvis during the show, I thought to myself, 'Whoa. He's NOT doing some silly Elvis charactature or impersonation. He's really digging deep.' I was astounded."

The Texas Theater presents The Gospel Soul of Elvis on Friday, August 18 2023 at 8 p.m., Texas Theater - Waxahachie, TX.

Learn more: https://www.thegospelsoulofelvisshow.com/cast.html

Related link: https://www.thegospelsoulofelvisshow.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Apr, 03
2023
Entertainment, Free News Articles

New critically-acclaimed Elvis stage show explores the spiritual side of ‘The King’

MINEOLA, Texas -- Mark Rios, the writer, director and lead actor of the acclaimed indie mobster TV series "A Family Thing," has created and produced an intimate new stage show about Elvis Presley that explores The King's undeniable love of gospel music, cast member Ben Tinsley announced today.

"The Gospel Soul of Elvis," inspired by true events, will be performed with amazing music by seasoned actors and singers. It soon will regionally debut at the oldest continuously operating theatre in Texas - the historic Lake Country Playhouse, 114 N. Johnson St in Mineola, (903) 569-2300.

A statement issued by the theatre expressed great enthusiasm for Rios' upcoming show. "We are excited to bring it to you," the statement read. "We think you will absolutely love it, as it is a glimpse into the more private side of this stellar performer."

This glimpse into the private side of the beloved artist recently previewed to a packed house in Dallas. Written to be interactive with the audience, this show's "soft opening" was a crowd-pleaser.

"The audience really enjoyed it," Mark Rios said in a recent interview. "We got great positive feedback and vibes. Many members of the audience were visibly moved with emotion."

As it stands right now, the show runs in Mineola for three days - April 28 at 7:30 p.m., April 29 at 7:30 p.m., and April 30, 2023 at 2 p.m.

Rios, who has spent two decades in stage and film, attracted a following with his show "A Family Thing." Many of the actors who work for one of Rios' projects say they often end up working on another.

"Being part of Mark's theatrical orbit is really helping our acting careers," said Ben Tinsley, who plays Col. Parker in the Elvis Show and "Bennie Few Words" on "A Family Thing."

The cast includes Mark Rios, Elizabeth Dykes, Malik Johnson, Randy Burk, Dasiana Preston, Olivia Sims, Ben Tinsley, Joe Dobbs and J. Douglas Baker.

For info on performances and tickets, go to https://allevents.in/mineola/10000559941649547

Or https://www.thegospelsoulofelvisshow.com/cast.html

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Sep, 12
2022
Entertainment, Free News Articles, General Editorial

Opening Thurs., Sept. 15: ‘Veils’ The Musical Takes Center Stage Reminding Us of The Price Paid for The Freedoms Won and The Women Behind It All

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. -- The Black Hollywood Education and Resource Center (BHERC) has teamed with Restoration Stage (Washington, D.C.) to bring the popular musical "Veils" to the Los Angeles area for a short run Thursday, September 15, and Friday, September 16 at 8 p.m.; Saturday, September 17 at 2 and 8 p.m. and Sunday, September 18 at 8 p.m. at the Nate Holden Performing Art Center in Los Angeles, California. Purchase tickets at https://bherc.org/.

So much has been written about the men lost in the Civil Rights and Black Lives Matter movements. Unexplored, however, are the stories of the women whose lives are affected by these tragedies - the women who wear the "Veils." This musical is described as an emotional historical pageant of grief and resilience that pays tribute to women veiled in mourning, with a focus on Black lives lost in bloodshed during the sixties Civil Rights Movement to gain many of the freedoms we enjoy today.

BHERC believes that "Veils" on its own sends a powerful message of courage and sacrifice. However, as we find ourselves at the precipice of a democracy that is being contested, and the right to vote is being undermined as well as other freedoms, BHERC believes that "Veils" is truly a great example of the price that has already been paid for the gains being threatened. It represents the strong Women, like those who today are standing up and marching for justice.

"We are proud to bring this inspirational and compelling work to Los Angeles for a second time," States Sandra J. Evers-Manly. "The pandemic disrupted the performance in March 2020, but not this time. Everyone must come out to witness this incredible musical. It will inform, energize, and inspire you, with hope for our future as a people."

"Veils," the musical, is written by Steven A. Butler, Jr. with music and lyrics by Courtney Baker-Oliver and Christopher John Burnett and is directed by Courtney Baker-Oliver. Joining the West Coast production is soul singer, dramatist, educator, and activist Ayanna Gregory. The daughter of iconic comedian and civil rights activist Dick Gregory, Ayanna continues her father's work with deep awareness and concern for Human Rights expressed through her gift of music. More than entertainment; they are her mission. "She touches the place that is the deepest and clearest in my heart", Stevie Wonder. Filling out the cast are Bernie Alston, Steven A. Butler, Jr.*, Desire' Dubose*, Kandace Foreman, Bridget Garwood, Andrea Gerald, Robert Hamilton, Brandyn Marshall, Corisa Myers, Suli Myrie, Ayana Ogunsunlade*, Grace Pugh, Nakiea Washington Dade (*member of Actor's Equity Association). Stage Management by Ronald Lee Newman*, Musical Direction by Justin Thompson, Choreography by Kyra DaCosta *, Sound/Video Design by David Lamont Wilson*, Lighting Design by Stage Jerry Dale, Jr. Set and Properties by Courtney Baker-Oliver and Robert Hamilton, Costumes by Courtney Baker-Oliver & Luqman Salim, Technical Direction by Robert Hamilton; Executive Producer, Sandra Evers-Manly and Producers: Courtney Baker-Oliver and Steven A. Butler, Jr.

ACCOLADES INCLUDE:

"The singer-actors have created an exquisitely beautiful experience of enduring sorrow, honor, and healing." - John Stoltenberg

"The surprise is that with Veils two such multitalented African American young men have undertaken this profoundly womanist theme with such deep empathy and authentic respect. This, to my knowledge, is a first in theatre history." - DCMetroTheatreArts.com

"Tackles roles ranging from Sybrina Fulton and Mamie Till to Jacqueline Kennedy and Viola Liuzzo." - The Washington Informer

"I'm thrilled that my mother's story is one being told in this production which brings history to life and light." - Mary Liuzzo, daughter of civil rights martyr Viola Liuzzo

TICKETS:

Tickets are $55.00 each. $45.00 for students and seniors. $45.00 for groups of 10 or more. For tickets, log onto https://bherc.org/ or call 310.284.3170.

About the BHERC:

Founded in 1996 by Sandra Evers-Manly, the Black Hollywood Education and Resource Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public benefit organization designed to advocate, educate, research, develop, and preserve the history and future of Black images in film and television. Through film festivals, award ceremonies, book signings, script readings, contests, scholarships, other programs, and special events, BHERC recognizes the contributions of Black men and women in front of and behind the scenes in the entertainment industry.

Like us on: Facebook and follow us on Twitter & Instagram. SOCIAL INFO:

Website: https://bherc.org/

facebook.com/BlackHollywood.9

twitter.com/Bhercdotorg

Instagram Bhercdotorg | #BHERC

About Restoration Stage, Inc. - (Washington, DC) is an independent theatre company. Best known for the original works of its founders, playwright Steven A. Butler, Jr., director/lyricist Courtney Baker-Oliver, and composer Christopher John Burnett, it is a partnership that has yielded the critically acclaimed "The Truth", "All That Glitters", and "Chocolate Covered Ants." The core focus of Restoration Stage, Inc. is to produce innovative theatrical productions with themes that contribute to the ongoing dialogue about how to improve the condition of the family in American society. ​

Our Founders: Courtney Baker-Oliver and Steven A. Butler, Jr. created Restoration Stage, Inc. in May 2005 and serve as Restoration Stage's legal directors. Initially created as a producing entity for Butler's play, "The Truth," it has expanded to include additional projects currently in various stages of development. Since 2005, Restoration Stage has employed the talents of more than fifty performers, designers, technicians, and other support staff to produce its productions. http://www.restorationstage.org

Related link: https://bherc.org/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Aug, 02
2022
Entertainment, Free News Articles

David Vass’ One Man Show ‘What Could Go Wrong?’ Arrives to Pay Per View

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. -- 71-year-old gay elder David Vass, who participated in the birthing of the gay liberation movement from seedlings, has launched his long-awaited one-man show, 'What Could Go Wrong?' His series of monologues is based on over 70 diaries kept since Vass was seven years old.

What started as three live performances just before the COVID pandemic led Vass to hire a film crew to record the 'evening with,' when it became obvious to him that traveling the show live to small venues throughout the USA, Canada and the UK would not be possible due to health regulations. The resulting pay-per-view movie is a condensed history of nearly everything that happened to the diarist from the early 50's through the onset of AIDs. He references this 81-minute production as part one and is working on a part two that will bring the PPV film and the live performances that again are being booked, up to the present.

A minimalist set reflects the intimate ambiance for his brutally honest, dramatic, funny, disturbing and at times cringe-worthy series of monologues culled from the diaries that he has kept for over 60 years, creating the bones of this extraordinary 'evening with'.

His one-man show, just prior to the onset of the pandemic, traveled to New York City, Indianapolis, London, San Francisco and Australia. As the realities of the travel restrictions because of CoVid were realized, David used that two-year period to rewrite the live version material and create the movie script. He also redesigned the play website, created his YouTube Television Channel, and legalized the production company ('I'm Afraid Knot LLC') into a non-profit 501-C organization.

Fervently believing, given the content and candid honesty of this adults-only production, that "audience members should feel free to walk out or turn off the PPV, no offense taken by me", he also reminds the audiences of both methods of seeing the 'evening with' his strong belief that our collective freedom of speech is under attack during these 'woke' times. This first half of his life can be brutal and repugnant, as life can be. There are performances where the coarse language used can come under attack, which he brushes off with "this is how white trash talked in those days."

Vass makes a point of meeting audience members at the live performances after the show in the lobby, if there is one, or under the eaves of the proverbial barn. For those watching the PPV, he urges feedback and reads it all - davidvasstheplay@gmail.com.

For a flavor of the content and intensity of the production, he suggests having a free look at the four-minute sizzle/teaser reel found on the play's website: https://www.whatcouldgowrong-theplay.com/.

David says, "My young brothers and sisters, or however you identify from the current 14-pronoun, one adjective cis/non-binary tribe of which I am a member, you've been handed gay rights and a large degree of equality and variety on a silver platter, and off the backs of us elders, us gays and brave drag queens who remember how we got from the early 50's to now. With RvW overturned (making way for gay marriage to be overturned as well), get ready to put your/our bodies on the streets again, blocking the streets again, making noise on the streets again and taking over the streets again."

He recalls at seven years of age being asked if he was a 'butch or a fem', a few years later a 'top or a bottom', skip forward to 'are you bi'. These questions all asked in the 50's and with no resources for Vass to reference - he didn't know any of those words. He learned at 14 what fellatio meant when a uniformed policeman pulled him into an alley and demanded just that. His first sexual encounter was not warm and fuzzy but makes for a sad but fascinating monologue segment about that time in gay history when the police and the Mafia pulled the strings on what the gay tribe could or could not do, and the prices paid for that suppression.

Vass reflects, "This history, this collection of real stories needs to be told, to be kept alive in the first-person for generations of our tribe who follow. Please be clear, this is not a gay play, it is a series of experiences told in monologues with the details refreshed by my beloved diaries - a series of encounters and life-changing events I have lived. Yes, I happen to be gay, and I use this theatrical forum to tell the absolute truth as I know it, and it is from a gay perspective. How could it not be? This was all seen through my eyes. I believe the monologues are relatable to everyone, and the 'evening with' also features stories about my time working with strippers, Broadway stars, movie legends, Grammy winning singers, assorted celebrities and so much more. We are all humans first, and then members of whatever 'tribe' we resonate to."

Snippets of what some others (reviewers, bloggists, interviewers, audience members) have to say about 'What Could Go Wrong?'...

Hugh M. Langford, Cultural and Theatre Critic-At-Large, London Review: "One story was considered by some attendees to be so offensive they walked out (4 to be exact). He is not pornographic or rude, but he is unabashedly rough, blue, and unafraid to present adult material without the ribbon and bow. At last, a show for grown-ups - imagine! A hero's medal to David Vass, diarist and storyteller, for wringing humanity out of part one of his life and sharing it with us without a hint of embarrassment or shame. His is a skilled and fully realized performance. If you can find this show, see it. You may not like it, but see it." (2021)

Joshua Ringwald, Lifestyle Blog Cultural Writer, NYC Review: "I was mesmerized throughout - at times shocked, embarrassed, angry, doubtful - is this for real, is this a play in disguise, am I watching a brilliant actor or one of the most honest and adept liars I've ever listened to? And laughter, so much laughter, and a dose of weeping too. Currently he self-produces, which he can ill afford. Calling all agents, bookers and producers; this is a gold mine in waiting. This needs to be seen by a lot of people. This is worthy of a long Off-Broadway run! See it. A brilliant evening - honest!"

Rita Kohn, Arts Writer, Nuvo, Indianapolis Review: "We cry, laugh, sigh, smile, cheer, groan - we come away uplifted by your honesty, lifeforce. Story is at the center and we love a good story. David Vass imbues the 'epitome of urbane,' which he brushes off with an airwave. One of my favorite monologues is him literally pooping himself at Lincoln Center having Montezuma's revenge during a concert doing sound and lights for a two-time Grammy winner. It's all in this show. Really it is not a play so much as an 'evening with', in the tradition of Quintin Crisp, David Sedaris and Augusten Burroughs - all cringe memoirists."

Audience Member After Performance in San Francisco: "Oh my God, I hope he has a good lawyer because I can't believe what came out of his mouth about those celebrities he worked with!"

Learn more: https://www.whatcouldgowrong-theplay.com/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (VIMEO): https://vimeo.com/ondemand/whatcouldgowrong

Related link: https://www.whatcouldgowrong-theplay.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Jul, 29
2022
Business, Entertainment, Free News Articles, Product Launches, Television

Broadway On Demand supercharges growth with launch of FAST channel to more than 20 million homes, chooses Triple-B Media as partner

NEW YORK, N.Y. -- Broadway On Demand today announced the expansion of its Emmy® Award nominated streaming platform for theater and the performing arts, with the launch of its branded Free Ad-Supported Television (FAST) SmartTV channel, making its content accessible to more than 20 million homes.

In partnership with Triple-B Media, a leading FAST channel curation company founded by former ESPN executives, Anthony Bailey and Brendan Canning, Broadway On Demand positioned the launch of its FAST channel to be accessible to as many homes as possible during its debut outing.

"We are extremely proud to provide Broadway On Demand free in over 20 million homes, expanding global access to Broadway and theatre content," said CEO and President of Broadway On Demand, Sean Cercone. "Triple-B's long-standing expertise in live-television and the FAST space is integral in helping us to make everyone in the world, a theatre person."

As a result of the collaboration between both companies, the Broadway On Demand FAST channel is projected to supercharge adoption across as many as seven platforms by end of summer 2022, with the ultimate goal of reaching more than 200 million households by the end of 2023. Vice President of Broadway On Demand, Jeffery Keilholtz, led development of the channel. Keilholtz also created and executive produced the Emmy® Award nominated Broadway On Demand original series, "Broadway Master Class."

The Broadway On Demand FAST channel will feature hundreds of hours of premium content, including Broadway, Off-Broadway and West-end shows, original series, behind-the-scenes content, and more.

"We are very excited to offer the first FAST channel dedicated to everything Broadway, and Broadway On Demand is the perfect partner," Canning, the chief commercial officer of Triple-B Media, said. "Collectively, our idea is to provide audiences a 360-degree experience of the Broadway ecosystem, offering the viewer access not only to coveted Broadway shows, but exciting content that often transfers to The Great Bright Way."

Since its launch in June 2021, Triple-B has already generated a strong portfolio of 10 channels operating 24 hours a day, with a focus on exclusive niche content in sports and single-genre categories. Now, buoyed with new investment from Tupelo Media Group, a division of Gray Television, Triple-B is positioned to quicken its growth plans with new content producers and significantly growing its audience across all channels.

"From its start, Triple-B has focused on super serving passionate fans of niche and emerging content verticals, be it boxing, billiards or theater, with our goal to satiate and grow that interest," said Bailey, Triple-B's CEO. "With Tupelo Honey's investment, our thesis has been validated."

Viewers can find FAST services that will offer the free-to-watch channel at: http://www.BroadwayAtHome.TV.

About Broadway On Demand:

BROADWAY ON DEMAND is the industry-leading streaming platform housing performance & theater education programming, and the preferred choice of top Broadway artists, producers, educators, and professionals. Broadway On Demand has streamed over 3,000 events and live productions-from Broadway shows to concert series, performance venues to individual artists, and original content-in 114 countries to more than 300,000 active users and was honored with an Emmy® Award nomination in 2021. Thanks to a unique licensing interface, ShowShare™, approved middle school, high school, college, community, and professional theater productions utilize the platform to stream to their audiences. Broadway On Demand is available on the web, mobile, Apple and Android app store, Apple TV, Roku, Chromecast, and Amazon Fire TV. For access to the complete and ever-expanding Broadway On Demand library, visit https://www.broadwayondemand.com/.

Follow on social at:

https://www.facebook.com/BwayOnDemand/

https://www.instagram.com/bwayondemand/

https://twitter.com/bwayondemand?lang=en

About Triple-B Media:

TRIPLE-B MEDIA is a full-service television and digital media company, specializing in the operation of free, ad supported television networks. To date, Triple-B Media owns or operates 10 television networks including FTF Sports, Lacrosse TV, ACL Cornhole TV, MotoAmerica TV, Fido TV, Billiard TV, Jai Alai TV, Boxing TV, The Rugby Network and Broadway On Demand. The Company also operates its own streaming platform called Streamstak at https://streamstak.com/. For more information, visit https://tripleb.tv/ .

Related link: https://www.broadwayondemand.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

May, 27
2022
Entertainment, Free News Articles, Regional Events

Human Connection Arts Premieres its First Installment of Naked Theater As ‘Freedom Dance’ Readies for June 2 – 5 Run at the Gene Frankel Theatre

NEW YORK, N.Y. -- Human Connection Arts, a non-profit founded by NYC-based artist and body painter Andy Golub, announced today performance dates of the group's second Naked Theater production, "Freedom Dance."

Running from June 2 through June 5, 2022 at the Gene Frankel Theatre at 24 Bond Street in lower Manhattan, "Freedom Dance" consists of a series of playful scenes that build a symbolic, existential story about the challenge of coping in our current troubled world. The production will feature a totally nude cast.

"It's actually not about the nudity at all," says writer/director, and Founder of Human Connection Arts, Andy Golub. "Clothing covers up our natural state. We are socialized on so many levels, it prevents us from processing ourselves, each other and the world around us."

Throughout the production, a series of existential scenes build an abstract story filled with original music, song, dance, movement, and acting. Scenes include a dance scene exemplifying the relationship of fire and the tree as she burns him down, a person perpetually swimming, the contemplations of a disgruntled god, and the cast symbolically sharing various interpretations of what is freedom.

"There is a time in life when things get so complicated, that we simply need to simplify, to step back and see things in a more basic way," says Golub. "This production is designed to help people to get back to seeing the basic, important things in life."

Prior to turning to theater production, Golub has organized many large-scale art events throughout Europe and the U.S., and his "living art" has been featured at many New York City Parades and Pridefests.

Naked Theater's production of "Freedom Dance" stars Annie Cox, Atlantis Carp, Ethan James First, Joseph Grosso, ​ Luca Villa, ​Maggie Rineman, Mizuho Kappa, Nora Gatz, and ​​Raul Gajasamharamoorthy.

The production is written and directed by Andy Golub and stage managed by ​​Raul Gajasamharamoorthy with lighting and sound by Hammer Productions. It runs June 2-5 at the Gene Frankel Theatre at 24 Bond Street in Lower Manhattan.

"Freedom Dance" is a unique, one-of-a-kind show with a very limited run of just four performances: Thursday - Saturday night at 7 p.m. and Sunday afternoon at 2 p.m. The production runs approximately 90 minutes. Tickets are $35. Must be 18 years or older to attend.

To be part of this historical theater moment visit: http://www.nakedtheater.org.

Venue information: https://www.genefrankeltheatre.com/.

About Human Connections Arts:

Founded by NYC-based artist and body painter, Andy Golub, Human Connections Arts is a non-profit organization that creates large scale public art events and performances to promote unity and acceptance for all people. Learn more: https://humanconnectionarts.org/.

Related link: https://humanconnectionarts.org/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

May, 23
2022
Entertainment, Free News Articles

The Lowell Chamber Orchestra is proud to present ‘LCO Pride: A Rainbow of Repertoire’

LOWELL, Mass. -- The Lowell Chamber Orchestra is proud to present "LCO Pride: A Rainbow of Repertoire" on Sunday, June 5, 2022 at Middlesex Community College in Lowell, Massachusetts. This chamber concert will celebrate Pride Month by showcasing LGBTQ+ composers from the Lowell area and around the world.

Creative director of LCO, Em Russell, states that putting on this concert has been a dream of the theirs since the orchestra's very first season! As well as works by Jean-Baptiste Lully, Benjamin Britten, this concert will showcase a World Premiere by composer Julia Moss, featuring soloist mezzo-soprano Julianna Smith, as well as exciting works by four other living composers.

Queer people have made many significant contributions to the classical music community, yet their identities are often concealed. This concert is meant to embrace and celebrate these identities, which we hope can one day become the norm in classical music culture.

Stylistically, this concert really has something for everyone, from poetry lovers to rock metal-heads. While Kevin Lubin's string quartet "The Flower Shop" includes a spoken narration with words by Virginia Woolf; Hannah Rice has written a Heavy Metal string quartet called "SQ666," which has been composed using techniques from heavy metal rock music.

This concert also features a variety of ensemble sizes, varying from string quartets all the way up to large ensemble works conducted by LCO's music director Orlando Cela. Steven Sérpa's "An Invocation," for solo oboe and strings, is a tone poem inspired by his long-time collaborator, queer poet Jeffery Beam, about the small beauties of nature. Sérpa has also written about more difficult topics, including an oratorio on HIV stigma with Inversion Ensemble and an opera responding to the Pulse nightclub shooting with companies in Chicago, Montréal, Hartford, and Austin.

Ethan Soledad's "Why Wait," for a 9-person ensemble, is about his own journey of self-discovery and defeating self-doubt. Ethan's music has been described as "bold, dramatic, and unapologetically expressive."

The largest work of the afternoon will be a World Premiere by composer Julia Moss: "The World is Too Much for Us". Written for mezzo-soprano soloist Julianna Smith and a 10-person chamber ensemble, the work is based on conversations between the composer-performer pair about the feeling of being overwhelmed by the ever-growing clutter of life. Inspired by these ideas, she chose to set the piece to a poem by William Wordsworth about how we have become so obsessed with possessing material items and controlling nature.

"By drowning out nature," Moss says, "we are really drowning out ourselves. The piece is meant to be an optimistic and empowering reminder of what we should really be paying attention to." In the fall of 2022, Moss will enroll at the University of Southern California's (USC) Thornton School of Music to earn a Masters in Music Composition.

"We also wanted to show through our programming that queer composers have stood the test of time. There are so many composers whose music we play all the time and whose names most anyone would recognize, but nobody knows they were queer. Tchaikovsky, for instance. He was queer. Aaron Copland, Leonard Bernstein, Samuel Barber, Benjamin Britten, just to name a few more of the "classics." And of course this doesn't even start to scratch the surface of the loads of queer composers living today, nor accurately represent the diversity that exists among them. But this is why we wanted to program someone as old as Baroque composer Jean-Baptiste Lully, who was born in 1632, to show that we really have been here all along, only now can we start to proudly assert our identities."

TICKETING / DONATION INFO:

The Lowell Chamber Orchestra is Lowell's first and only professional orchestra, demolishing the socio-economic barriers to classical music by always providing the area with music at a very high level, of all styles and eras. Consequently, this event is free of charge, but donations are kindly requested.

If you believe this concert to be a worthy cause and are able to contribute to the event funds, please donate at the link below. Thank you! https://glcf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create?funit_id=2326

"LCO: Pride: A Rainbow of Repertoire"

Sunday, June 5, 3 p.m.

Richard and Nancy Donahue Academic Arts Center

Recital Hall

240 Central Street, Lowell, MA

Free to attend, no tickets, just show up - Mask required

For more information, visit: https://lowellchamberorchestra.org/events

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/Mua2UoBBld0

Related link: https://lowellchamberorchestra.org/

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May, 09
2022
Business, Entertainment, Free News Articles

Music Theater Works Presents DISNEY’S THE LITTLE MERMAID

SKOKIE, Ill. -- Music Theater Works shall present "DISNEY'S THE LITTLE MERMAID" at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie (9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, IL 60076) from June 2, 2022 to June 26, 2022 as the second production of the 2022 Season.

About The Show

Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen's most beloved stories and the classic Disney animated film, "DISNEY'S THE LITTLE MERMAID" is a classic and beautiful love story for the entire family. With music by eight-time Academy Award winner Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater, and a compelling book by Doug Wright, this Broadway gem will capture your heart with its irresistible song favorites, including "Under the Sea," "Kiss the Girl" and "Part of Your World."

From the moment you step into the theater, this immersive production will make you feel part of Ariel's world. When she disobeys her father, King Triton, and makes a deal with the evil witch, Ursula, Ariel thinks her dreams have come true. But when the bargain is not what it seems, Ariel needs the help of her colorful friends, Flounder the fish, Scuttle the seagull, and Sebastian the crab to save her true love and restore order under the sea.

Production Details

Who:
* Music Theater Works

What:
* DISNEY'S THE LITTLE MERMAID
* Book by Doug Wright
* Music by Alan Menkin
* Lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glen Slater
* Music Directed and Conducted by Celia Villacres
* Co-Directed by Stacey Flaster and Joshua Castille
* Choreography by Stacey Flaster and Matthew Weidenbener

Cast Members:
* Joselle Reyes (Ariel)
* Caroline Lyell (Ursula)
* Anakin White (Jetsam)
* Korey White (Grimsby)
* Clayton Cross (Scuttle)
* Gus Franchere (Flotsam)
* Eloise Mulliken (Flounder)
* Nathan Karnik (Prince Eric)
* Thomas E. Squires (King Triton)
* Meredith Wells (Atina, Ensemble)
* Amy Delgado (Aquata, Ensemble)
* Aubrey Trecek (Adella, Ensemble)
* Wesley Anthony Clerge (Sebastian)
* Trillium Falotico (Allana, Ensemble)
* Jimmy Hogan (U/S Flotsam, Jetsam)
* Nick Johnson (Chef Louis, Ensemble)
* Jennifer Ledesma (Andrina, Ensemble)
* Emily Turner (U/S Mersisters, Flounder)
* Chase Infiniti (Arista, U/S Ariel, Ensemble)
* Darryl Jones (Pilot, Ensemble, U/S King Triton)

Creative Team:
* Shane Cinal (Set Designer)
* Will Hughes (Tech Director)
* Joshua Castille (Co-Director)
* Kathy Logelin (Dialect Coach)
* Eric Backus (Sound Designer)
* Celia Villacres (Music Director)
* Bob Silton (Production Manager)
* Andrew Myers (Lighting Designer)
* Eric Nicole Eggers (Stage Manager)
* Dr. Aaron Ozee (Director Of Marketing)
* Rachel Sypniewski (Costume Designer)
* Samantha Salmi (Assistant Stage Manager)
* Kyle A. Dougan (Producing Artistic Director)
* Stacey Flaster (Co-Director & Choreographer)
* Maria "Mimi" Compton (Hair & Make-Up Designer)
* Matthew Weidenbener (Assistant Choreographer)

When:
* Press Performance: Friday, June 3, 2022 @ 8:00 PM
* Saturday, June 4, 2022 @ 2:00 PM
* Saturday, June 4, 2022 @ 8:00 PM
* Sunday, June 5, 2022 @ 2:00 PM
* Wednesday, June 8, 2022 @ 1:00 PM
* Thursday, June 9, 2022 @ 7:30 PM
* Friday, June 10, 2022 @ 8:00 PM
* Saturday, June 11, 2022 @ 2:00 PM
* Saturday, June 11, 2022 @ 8:00 PM
* Sunday, June 12, 2022 @ 2:00 PM
* Sunday, June 12, 2022 @ 6:00 PM
* Wednesday, June 15, 2022 @ 1:00 PM
* Thursday, June 16, 2022 @ 7:30 PM
* Friday, June 17, 2022 @ 8:00 PM
* Saturday, June 18, 2022 @ 2:00 PM
* Saturday, June 18, 2022 @ 8:00 PM
* Sunday, June 19, 2022 @ 2:00 PM
* Sunday, June 19, 2022 @ 6:00 PM
* Wednesday, June 22, 2022 @ 1:00 PM
* Thursday, June 23, 2022 @ 7:30 PM
* Friday, June 24, 2022 @ 8:00 PM
* Saturday, June 25, 2022 @ 2:00 PM
* Saturday, June 25, 2022 @ 8:00 PM
* Sunday, June 26, 2022 @ 2:00 PM

Where:

North Theatre

North Shore Center For The Performing Arts In Skokie

9501 Skokie Blvd.

Skokie, IL 60077

Tickets:

Ticket prices range from $39 to $106 and tickets for guests 25 and under are half-price.

Box Office: (847) 673-6300

Website: https://www.musictheaterworks.com/disneys-the-little-mermaid/.

Run Time:

Run time is approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes, including one 15 minute intermission.

Health Safety:

For more information about the Health Safety Procedures at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie, please visit https://www.musictheaterworks.com/health-safety-procedures/.

Upcoming Shows

Music Theater Works has announced the 2022 Season, opening with Jerry Herman's LA CAGE AUX FOLLES (March 10, 2022 - April 3, 2022) starring Ginger Minj from RuPaul's Drag Race, followed by DISNEY'S THE LITTLE MERMAID (June 2, 2022 - June 22, 2022), ZORRO: THE MUSICAL (August 11, 2022 - August 21, 2022), CAMELOT (October 30, 2022 - November 13, 2022), and IRVING BERLIN'S WHITE CHRISTMAS (December 15, 2022 - January 1, 2023).

Please visit https://www.musictheaterworks.com/2022-Season/ for more information.

About Music Theater Works

Music Theater Works is a professional non-profit theater company based in Wilmette, Illinois featuring a colorful repertoire including operetta, the Golden Age of Broadway, the Great American Songbook, and modern classics since 1980.

As of 2021, Music Theater Works has become a resident theater company at the North Shore Center For The Performing Arts In Skokie (9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, IL 60076).

Related link: https://www.musictheaterworks.com/

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