Check out Mary Colurso’s blog in today’s Birmingham News for the scoop:

http://blog.al.com/mcolurso/2009/11/wayne_and_the_wailers_birmingh.html

I love the energy of Hubbard Street 2 Dance Company and can’t wait to see them perform this weekend.

Here’s info about their program:

The Restless
The incredible speed and fascinating structure of Bach’s “Allegro” from the Sonata No. 2 for Solo Violin along with the precision and enormous musicality of the dancers from Hubbard Street 2 inspired this choreographic collaboration, which strives to make Bach’s music subtly visible.And, for more info check out this link to a Birmingham News story about the co:

Gimme
A witty and playful duet by HSDC Artistic Associate Lucas Crandall, Gimme is set to the rustic score of the Norwegian Group Blå Bergens Borduner. The music’s variations on tempo and rhythm emphasize the changing emotional dynamic between the two dancers. Both passionate and ironic, Gimme saturates the senses with color and delight.

INTERMISSION

First Light
Music by Philip Glass. From the album The Orphée Suite for Piano: “Orphée and the Princess” and “Orphée’s Return”, performed by Paul Barnes. Courtesy of Orange Mountain Music and Dunvagen Music Publishers, Inc.

glass skin
glass skin is a piece that begins and ends with the individual dancers, evolving with each public performance.

INTERMISSION

Sight Unseen
Sight Unseen explores the connection we have with people…with or without boundaries or barriers.

Diphthong
An intriguing work influenced by the music of Belgium-based band Zap Mama. The syncopated beat evokes power and beauty and “is a visual representation of the music–it’s about the dancers getting swept away and moving through the space,” explains choreographer Enos.

http://blog.al.com/mhuebner/2009/11/youthful_hubbard_street_2_to_p.html

You have 3 chances to see them this weekend.  Friday and Saturday night at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday afternoon at 2:30 p.m.  Sunday’s show is designed for familes, meaning it will be slighlty shorter and much more interactive – you’ll really get some behind the scenes info!  For tickets, visit www.AlysStephens.org or call (205) 975-2787.

Even though some of the info is factually incorrect – we wanted to share this blog with you because it captures the spirit of seeing The Wailers live. The band is currently touring in South Africa, but soon headed our way – the show is just ONE WEEK AWAY!

The Wailers Live in Cape Town

“I was lucky enough to be in the crowd when The Wailers came to Cape Town for one night only last night. Of course, most people will ask who the hell The Wailers are but put Bob Marley in front of the name and it all becomes clearer. And let me tell you, if I had been wearing socks, they would have been rocked off. As it is, I literally have holes in the soles of my shoes from dancing from start to finish.

It was the first time I’d seen the opening act, The Rudimentals and they were really, really good. They had so much energy and excitement and they played really upbeat, truly South African reggae.

By contrast, The Wailers seemed to have a slower, simpler, more deliberate groove. They played all their massive classics but with a really cool, bluesy feel that the original Bob Marley recordings would not have had. Of course, only one of The Wailers is actually from the original band, but looking at “Family Man” as he is known, you can see he is just such a pro. Like he was born to play the bass on that stage, in those sunglasses.

What I loved though is that every single musician on that stage was there for the pure love of the music. From the vocalist’s constant smile and his prompts to “do your ting (said just like that) Cape Town” down to the guitarists massive riffs and everything in between- it was not for the fame or the glory, but because they really loved reggae music.

And when they went off stage and allowed the crowd to scream at the top of their lungs for a full ten minutes before relenting to an encore, I thought I was gonna go deaf. And then they played Redemption Song. Initially only vocals and guitar- so simple, so beautiful. And then with the entire band, vibey and cool. And the crowd sang from start to finish. And when I looked around at all the people there, from the middle class white kids through to the real rastas with dreadlocks down to their knees and a few hippies in tie-dye shirts, it felt like that was the new South Africa everyone had been dreaming of- everyone in one room singing about freedom, smiling, laughing, dancing. “

“Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery;
None but ourselves can free our minds” –Redemption Song

My Digital Life Feed – http://www.mydigitallife.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1046025&Itemid=43

Source

Reserve your seats to see this legendary band by clicking here or calling (205) 975-2787.

As The Wailers show gets closer (it’s just a week away on Thursday, November 12), I keep finding amazing videos and reviews about the band’s past and present. 

Check out the video on Daily Motion which includes some history on The Wailers but also video footage of a few recent shows. 

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k3i8gtQrPXPwYnJrhC

Being in the audience, and hearing the original members (along with a few talented new members) perform the legendary EXODUS album, will truly be a memorable experience. The lineup includes original Wailers Family Man Aston Barrett, bass; Keith Sterling, keyboards; Chico Chin, trumpet; and Nambo Robinson, trombone along with Elan Atias, lead vocals.

The band has also been incredibly busy putting together programs to aid world hungry relief efforts.  You can support the cause at the show by purchasing a special wristband.  And, this is cool…as part of their rider, instead of having the ASC provide food for the band and the crew, they have asked us to donate the food we would normally provide as part of the contract to a local food bank. 

Legendary musicians and humanitarians, it doesn’t get any better!

For tickets to the show, call (205) 975-ARTS or visit www.AlysStephens.org.

The dynamic Hubbard Street 2 Dance Company is headed to the ASC, Nov 6-8, for two evening performances and one afternoon family matinee.  We recently caught up with Ethan, one of the company’s dancers to chat about the visit. 

Jessica (ASC): It sounds like a very interesting program for your Birmingham shows.  I know that not all pieces are as easy to connect to as a dancer as others.  Is there one that stands out as a favorite or maybe as most challenging?

Ethan (HS2): There are two pieces in the program you’ll be seeing that I connect with the most at this point, one for being my favorite and the other for  being the most challenging. My favorite piece to perform is Terence Marling’s “Glass Skin” because he created a piece that can be different every time it is performed. The blue print always stays the same, but the architecture of the piece always turns out a little differently. For example, I have two solos in the dance with no choreography; he has simply given me some tasks and images to base an improvisation off of. It’s a piece that really brings all the dancers into the present moment and helps us connect with one another. 

The other piece I am enjoying right now is Alejandro Cerrudo’s “First Light”. This is the first piece created on this set of Hubbard Street 2 dancers and it was completed a little more than two weeks before our shows in Birmingham. The challenge then, is to come together as new dancers with new choreography, and make it appear as if we’ve been dancing this piece together for decades. I always enjoy a race against time and if any group of dancers could bring Cerrudo’s work to fruition, I have to be a little biased and say it is this Hubbard Street 2. 

 Jessica (ASC): Dancers have bad work days just like the rest of us, right?  How do you motivate yourself to go out and perform on those days that you just don’t feel quite up to it?

Ethan (HS2): Most definitely! I have found that the majority of my performances happen on the days I feel are the least ideal. Many factors go into how a dancer feels before a show, ranging from past or new injuries to having had to do 3 shows in a row two days prior, travel for five hours the next day, and then perform the following day. Thus, there are many different ways for dancers to push past these “slight” obstacles. Sometimes I find strength in my colleagues; the sheer joy to be out there dancing with people who wholeheartedly share my passion. When performing I have to be completely committed to the present moment, so that can help me forget the long bus drive I may have had the night before etc. Also, we are constantly reminded to keep the dances fresh, not performing them the same exact way every time but finding new challenges and ideas within the strict framework of our choreography. Sometimes we can use our lethargy, sickness, or soreness to go deeper into the movement, finding new pathways or effort qualities that we wouldn’t have explored had we been in the perfect mood. Even when it is the worst day possible, when all is said and done, we get to go out there and do what we LOVE. I don’t want to spend a day not dancing.

Jessica (ASC): Do you have any upcoming performance between now and your Nov. 6-8 dates at the Alys Stephens Center?  Same program or is it always changed up?

Ethan (HS2): We actually have two shows prior to our run at the ASC. Hubbard Street Dance Chicago has a partnership with the Art Institute of Chicago, but this will be the first time the second company will get to take advantage of this collaboration. We will be performing a condensed show consisting of 3-4 pieces. Our next show will be in Storm Lake, Iowa and it will be the same program that will be seen in Birmingham. For this fall tour we are bringing just one program, but it varies per tour. Our last spring tour to Germany consisted of five different programs, some of which had overlap of pieces, but nonetheless a lot of variety. 

Jessica (ASC): The company is being so generous to participate in many of the ASC’s educational programs while in Birmingham including a family performance on Sunday afternoon.  How will the family performance differ from the Friday and Saturday evening performances?

Ethan (HS2): We are very excited to be a part of the ASC’s educational programs. I know I love performing for children because they are a very honest audience; they find humor or amazement in moments I never would have seen before. The program for the Sunday matinee will be slightly shorter than our Friday and Saturday shows and will be much more interactive. I will hopefully be able to come out at some point and lead the audience in some basic movements found by HSDC’s educational outreach program to increase self and spacial awareness, focus, and even help with classroom activities such as reading. We strive to show just how accessible dance is, and not only get the kids active and moving but also mentally stimulated by the ideas and concepts behind what we do. 

Jessica (ASC): Is there anything you would like to see while in Birmingham?  Any favorite cuisine you’ll search out while here?  Just let us know and we’ll post a question on our blog and let readers make suggestions for you.

 Ethan (HS2): I’m not sure what I’m looking for in Birmingham. I’m the type in the company that gets pulled into what everyone else has researched or wants to do, but other times I let things find me. I asked around the company if they were looking for any specific cuisine unique to Birmingham and to be honest, none of us were really sure what that would entail. So if your readers have any suggestions for food idiosyncratically “Birmingham” please do share. Mostly, we are always on the look out for a nice restaurant that would be open after our shows (around 9:30 or 10:00 PM). And a place with karaoke wouldn’t hurt either…

 Tickets are still available for the shows, Friday, Nov. 6 and Saturday, Nov. 7 at 7:30 p.m. and the family matinee Sunday, Nov 8 at 2:30 p.m.  Just call 205-975-2787 or visit www.AlysStephens.org.

The extremely gifted Lizz Wright graced the Alys Stephens Center’s intimate Sirote Theatre on October 23, 2009 with her gorgeously smoky voice. Wearing a coral dress, a black shawl, and sandals–both of which she later discarded, Wright opened the night with “Old Man.” Her powerful and multifaceted contralto rode the song well, as one could hear a yearning in her voice that effortlessly fused folk and jazz. At one point, Wright stepped away from the microphone and became lost in the music as she danced and lightly tapped her chest–something she would do often that night. Wright’s music is an eclectic mixture of jazz, blues, gospel, rhythm and blues, soul, and folk; the way she intertwines the genres are astounding. Her gospel roots could be heard in “I Idolize You,” where the organ backed her soulful voice, and the guitar appeared to “talk” back as her voice floated over the song.

At times, Wright’s voice was emotive, delicately touching the inner chambers of one’s soul and not just their ears. She took the audience on a journey through love, deliverance, and life. Her exquisite vocal arrangements were electrifying, particularly when she sung “Hit the Ground,” a song her “daddy likes” as she put it.

Wright’s voice is lucidly beautiful, raw, and has the power to evoke passion. Her performance was moving, with her voice echoing a sweet tenacity. Wright stole the show with a traditional gospel song, “Walk With Me Lord,” that she blended with smooth jazz. Her voice was pleading and hopeful as the fluidity of the organ pierced the theatre. Mid-performance, Wright pulled off her earrings as she sung “hold my hand Lord,” and reached her hand out for emphasis.

Wright’s voice is pure in its simplicity and depth, a brilliance that can only be cultivated. She sung in different registers, artfully going from low to high. Her vocal arrangements were awesome as she plaintively yearned for love and affection, which were enough to resonate in one’s heart. Wright performed “Another Angel,” “My Heart,” “Stop,” “When I Fall,” “Blue Rose,” “Trouble,” “Coming Home,” “Easy Rider,” “Hey Mann,” “Salt,” and “Thank You.”

A big thanks to Shermika Dunner for reviewing the Lizz Wright show!

I just have to give a nice plug to our Arts in Action Education & Outreach Program and it’s director, aka “brains of the operation”, Kimberly Kirklin.  Since I’m in the marketing & programming world, I don’t always know what’s going on in our education department.  What I do know is there’s always a TON happening.  

Just take a look at this upcoming schedule of events for the next week – Yes, all of these events in one (1) week!

Friday, Oct 16 – ASC Kids’ Club on the Road presents “No Fear Shakespeare with Quinton Cockrell”
at Smith Middle School & a Kindergarten program at Washington K-8

Friday, Oct 16 – ASC Kids’ Club on the Road presents “Poet’s Corner with Sharrif Simmons” at Lewis Elementary  & at Homewood High School

Friday, Oct. 16 - Individual Guitar Lessons with ASC’s new Robert Redus School of Guitar at Glen Iris Elementary

 Saturday, Oct 17 – Drama Workshop for students at the ASC 

Saturday, Oct 17 – Make It Happen Performing Ensemble for students at ASC

 Saturday, Oct 17 - ASC Kids’ Club on the Road presents “Poet’s Corner with Sharrif Simmons” at the King’s Ranch

 Tuesday, Oct 20 – ASC Kids’ Club presents “The Watershed Workshop” highlighting the enviroment through the performing arts at Smith Middle School & at Inglenook K-8

 Wednesday, Oct 21 – ASC Kids’ Club presents “The Watershed Workshop at Barrett Elementary

Personally, I think that’s pretty impressive!   ASC Ticket Buyers & Donors make this possible.  When you purchase a ticket to the ASC, you are helping to build the Arts in Action program.  Most of these programs are offered completely free of charge to schools and students.  Through your support, the ASC even provides free bus transportation for many events! 

So, the next time you buy tickets to a show at the ASC, give yourself a pat on the back…together we’re making sure Birmingham’s kids get the arts education they deserve!

To find out more about the AiA program, visit www.AlysStephens.org.

We caught up with Nashville’s busiest songwriter and performer to discuss his upcoming ASC show and the intimate On Stage w/the Band format.  

ASC: I was lucky enough to catch you perform at the Ryman this summer with Elvis Costello. What was it like playing and recording with him?

Jim: It was amazing experience, I still can’t believe it happened. It looks like we will be doing more touring in 2010. One of the highlights for me, was that we started writing together. That’s a real dream come true and I hope to do more.

ASC: You seem to be a regular at the Ryman. I noticed you recently hosted the Americana Music Awards again. Do you feel a different energy performing there than in other venues?

Jim: Yes I do, there is so much history in the place that I can feel the vibrations of past performers and performances, like Hank Williams, that graced that stage.

ASC: Tell us what your working on these days. Any new collaborations or solo projects in the works?

Jim: I am finishing a record of collaborations with Robert Hunter (co-writer w/ Jerry Garcia of the Grateful Dead). We started writing together about 10 years ago, when I was doing my first record with Ralph Stanley, Robert is one of my favorite writers of all time and it’s a blessing to get to work with him. We’ve written probably close to 60 songs together.

ASC: For the Birmingham show at the Alys Stephens Center you’re performing in the bluegrass trio format. As an artist, what does this format allow that maybe you’re not getting to do in other settings?

Jim: I actually might bring more than a trio to surprise you!

ASC: Speaking of setting, the show here is part of the ASC’s “On Stage w/the Band” format, meaning it’s super intimate with audience members actually seated on the stage with you. Any thoughts on what this might mean for your show?

Jim: It sounds like it is gonna be a really fun experience for me. I’ve never performed in that kind of setting, so I’m really excited about it and looking forward to being with you all!

Great seats are still available to see the JIM LAUDERDALE BLUEGRASS TRIO, Wednesday, October 14th.  The show is part of the ASC’s “On Stage w/the Band” series.  $40/on stage.  $35/right above stage.

Call 205-975-2787 or visit www.AlysStephens.org for tickets.

Gabriela Montero’s nickname is “La Divina del Piano,” and given Gabriela Montero’s classical keyboard skills, “divine” does not risk exaggeration. Not only is Montero one of the most sound interpreters of the classical piano repertoire, but what sets her apart is her ability to take a well-known piece and offer a fresh improvisational interpretation of it. It’s the kind of style that makes Montero open to taking mid-concert requests.
-The Star-Telegram

Not only is Gabriela Montero one of the most talented young pianists we’ve seen, she’s also known for her amazing improvisational skills. We just received her program for the upcoming October 10 performance and were delighted to see that the entire second half of the program is dedicated to audience suggestions! Fun, huh?

We hope you will come out to support this exciting artist!

G A B R I E L A M O N T E R O, piano

Saturday, October 10 Performance Program

Six Piano Pieces, Op. 118 JOHANNES BRAHMS
Intermezzo in A minor: Allegro non assai, ma molto appassionato (1833 – 1897)
Intermezzo in A Major: Andante teneramente
Ballade in G minor: Allegro energico
Intermezzo in F minor: Allegretto un poco agitato
Romanze in F Major: Andante
Intermezzo in E fl at Major: Andante – Largo e mesto
Sonata No. 1, Op. 22 ALBERTO GINASTERA
Allegro marcato (1916—1983)
Presto misterioso
Adagio molto appassionato
Ruvido ed ostinato

I N T E R M I S S I O N

Improvisations on themes or pieces suggested by audience members