Last night I went to see Tamandua - the new Brazilian opera by Joao MacDowell. It was really exciting, beautiful, and refreshing to witness new life being brought into the operatic repertoire.
Despite it being a concert-style production (ie: no costumes or stage direction), there was a lot of emotion and drama in the music and story. MacDowell - who conducted - mixed elements of Brazilian folk melodies and rhythms to create a powerful urban-inspired multi-lingual piece. With traditional western operatic dramatic themes (lust, passion, death), the work also made a powerful statement about modern issues such as social violence, crime, multi-culturalism, and mental illness.
Certain parts reminded me of Philip Glass - contemplative and meditative. There were also dynamic percussive pieces, and arias with serious dramatic intensity. Every movement showed MacDowell's flair for melody.
The singers were well cast, and sang beautifully. Amy Buckley's coloratura soprano was splendid. Claudio Mascarenhas gave a moving performance in his final aria - "Uereman." Guto Bittencourt and Abby Powell singing in Portuguese and English were also terrific. The ensemble also included a female chorus, cello, piano and Brazilian percussion.
There will be another performance on Sunday - and there are still tickets available. It's at an exhibit that re-creates the Brazilian rain forest called Amazonia Brasil. It should be a memorable experience.
Tickets are $40 at the door, or online by 3pm Sunday (visit site for more details on the exhibit and the opera). The ticket includes a full visit to the Amazonia Brasil exhibit, as well as an open caipirinha bar from 7-8 and again from 9-10.
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Ugly Betty/ Anna's NYC Blog
This week I started my new job. It is very exciting. I am downtown at Time's Square working at a fashion company. It is very, very interesting. I feel like Ugly Betty.With my new 9-5 schedule, I am grateful I've had the past few months to learn how to be really alive. It was almost like a sabbatical or something.
Meanwhile, I recommend Anna's NYC - a great blog for people like me trying to take advantage of living in NYC. A fellow Californian, Anna focuses on finding practical things like the best Mexican food, good shows, yoga classes, fashionable outfits, etc... I was especially excited to find her information on Vintage store/thrift shops.
She had a good blog on finding burritos in New York as well.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Tamandua - a new Brazilian opera
I'm going to this ....
==============================================
Classical Music Meets Brazilian Percussion in New York
Premiere presentation of 10 selections from “Tamandua”, a new Brazilian opera, to be performed in New York City
New York, NY (May 20) – Composer Joao MacDowell will present ten selections from “Tamandua”, a new Brazilian opera, in New York on Friday, May 30 and Sunday, June 1. The opera promises a new sound with the addition of Brazilian percussion to classical composition.
The premiere event, produced in conjunction with Casa do Brasil, will take place at the Ballroom on 4 West 43rd Street in Manhattan on May 30 from 7-10pm. An after party will be held at Brazil Brazil restaurant located at 330 West 46th Street. Tickets for the May 30 performance are $40 and must be purchased in advance: http://tamandua.pingg.com/May30Concert
The second and final event will take place at the Amazonia Brasil exhibit located on the North side of Pier 17 at South Street Seaport on June 1 from 7-10pm. A cocktail and silent auction will follow. Tickets for the June 1 performance are $40 and must be purchased by in advance: http://tamandua.pingg.com/June1Concert
ABOUT TAMANDUA
Tamandua (The Ant-Eater) is the story of a love triangle between Carol, Aruanan and Pedro. The contrasting landscapes of a busy New York winter and an explosive Rio de Janeiro summer shape the scenario against which the cultural and psychological conflicts take place. Conflicts between natives and foreigners in Rio, as well as the dealing of art and drugs, set up a panel of references to urban violence in the third world. Parallel to the story line are underlying tribal and mystical themes, dealing with aspects of colonization, globalization, the collective unconscious mind, urban archetypes, and the fusion of cultures in the New World.
THE ARTISTS
Joao MacDowell (conductor), Claudio Mascarenhas (baritone), Amy Buckley (soprano), Guto Bittencourt (tenor), Abby Powell (mezzo-soprano), Sabine Pellarin (chorus), Debora Balardini (chorus), Laudiceia Smith (chorus), Suzie Thompson (chorus), Georgianna Pappas (piano), Jeremy Lamb (cello) and Jorge Amorim (Brazilian percussion)
CONTACT: Sara Holoubek - TamanduaTheOpera@gmail.com - 917.806.1672
==============================================
Classical Music Meets Brazilian Percussion in New York
Premiere presentation of 10 selections from “Tamandua”, a new Brazilian opera, to be performed in New York City
New York, NY (May 20) – Composer Joao MacDowell will present ten selections from “Tamandua”, a new Brazilian opera, in New York on Friday, May 30 and Sunday, June 1. The opera promises a new sound with the addition of Brazilian percussion to classical composition.
The premiere event, produced in conjunction with Casa do Brasil, will take place at the Ballroom on 4 West 43rd Street in Manhattan on May 30 from 7-10pm. An after party will be held at Brazil Brazil restaurant located at 330 West 46th Street. Tickets for the May 30 performance are $40 and must be purchased in advance: http://tamandua.pingg.com/May30Concert
The second and final event will take place at the Amazonia Brasil exhibit located on the North side of Pier 17 at South Street Seaport on June 1 from 7-10pm. A cocktail and silent auction will follow. Tickets for the June 1 performance are $40 and must be purchased by in advance: http://tamandua.pingg.com/June1Concert
ABOUT TAMANDUATamandua (The Ant-Eater) is the story of a love triangle between Carol, Aruanan and Pedro. The contrasting landscapes of a busy New York winter and an explosive Rio de Janeiro summer shape the scenario against which the cultural and psychological conflicts take place. Conflicts between natives and foreigners in Rio, as well as the dealing of art and drugs, set up a panel of references to urban violence in the third world. Parallel to the story line are underlying tribal and mystical themes, dealing with aspects of colonization, globalization, the collective unconscious mind, urban archetypes, and the fusion of cultures in the New World.
THE ARTISTS
Joao MacDowell (conductor), Claudio Mascarenhas (baritone), Amy Buckley (soprano), Guto Bittencourt (tenor), Abby Powell (mezzo-soprano), Sabine Pellarin (chorus), Debora Balardini (chorus), Laudiceia Smith (chorus), Suzie Thompson (chorus), Georgianna Pappas (piano), Jeremy Lamb (cello) and Jorge Amorim (Brazilian percussion)
CONTACT: Sara Holoubek - TamanduaTheOpera@gmail.com - 917.806.1672
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Philippines Medical Tourism - *offical music video*
My blog on Philippines Medical Tourism is popular with search engines. I found out there is an official music video for the phenomenon....."Together we can" is done in an inspiring pop ballad
style. There are so many things I could say, but the video speaks for itself:
style. There are so many things I could say, but the video speaks for itself:
Monday, May 19, 2008
Regis and Kelly
In my unemployed state, it's kind of embarrassing to admit that Regis and Kelly have become a frequent morning ritual for me. I turn it on as I get ready, drink some coffee, or catch up on emails.Most of the time their banter is obnoxious - Kelly always talks to Regis while making flirty faces at the camera and to the audience; Regis always makes fun of his aging physique.
Still, since their show takes place in NYC, sometimes I learn some interesting things about this town, and they often have really great guests.
Today Regis did a really great segment on New York Museums. Also, Natasha Bedingfield did a pretty kick-ass live performance of her new hit "Pocketful of Sunshine"
Though it looks like my unemployed state will be ending next week. Farewell Kelly and Regis!
Fun on Friday (Elaine Romanelli on May 23rd)
Hey New Yorkers - I'll be in San Francisco, so I'll miss this show, but I recommend you go see Elaine Romanelli at Googie's. She has some new songs, and the same witty fun!
Check it out!
=============================================
A singer/ song-writer of unique charm and talent, Elaine made a star turn on “What Not to Wear” where she was one of their most entertaining make-over subjects.
Romanelli made her first trip to NYC in 2006 from California to have her wardrobe ceremoniously thrown in the trash by hosts Stacy London and Clinton Kelly. On the episode (Season 4), viewers fell in love with her charm and witty banter with the hosts of the show.
Meanwhile, Romanelli fell in love with the Big Apple, and – along with her new WNTW wardrobe - decided to create her life and music career here. A professional and classically trained singer, Romanelli’s skills and talents were a great fit for New York. She has performed all over town in musicals, concerts and shows.
Where Romanelli shines the most is in the songs she writes herself. Lyrical and sincere, Romanelli’s style is an amalgam of compelling storytelling and beautiful singing; Shawn Colvin meets Sarah McLachlan, with a pinch of Tina Fey for sass.
ELAINE ROMANELLI
with
Chris Parrello, guitar
Dimitri Moderbacher, bass
GOOGIE'S LOUNGE at THE LIVING ROOM
Friday, May 23rd
7:30pm no cover
154 Ludlow / Stanton & Rivington (F or V to 2nd Av subway). Go *upstairs* when you enter The Living Room.
Sad and sassy folk/pop and blues originals - some old, some new, some debuts. Plus a kazoo!
http://www.elaineromanelli.com
http://www.myspace.com/elaineromanelli
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Going to California - ("telling myself it's not as hard, hard, hard as it seems")
Last week was really hard... it was like I walked around with a dark cloud around my head. I felt so many things - both joyous and sad. One thing that has inspired me is a trip to California coming up.
The legendary Led Zeppelin song came to mind. I relate to certain parts of those lyrics - the journey, a new start, unkindness, leaving the past behind, etc....
One of the highlights of my concert-going life was seeing this song at a concert with John Paul Jones, Glen Phillips, Pete Thomas, and Nickel Creek. It was a collaboration they called Mutual Admiration Society. They played a concert at the Independent in San Francisco. It made an indelible mark.
Spent my days with a woman unkind,
Smoked my stuff and drank all my wine.
Made up my mind to make a new start,
Going to california with an aching in my heart.
Someone told me theres a girl out there
With love in her eyes and flowers in her hair.
Took my chances on a big jet plane,
Never let them tell you that they're all the same.
The sea was red and the sky was grey,
Wondered how tomorrow could ever follow today.
The mountains and the canyons started to tremble and shake
As the children of the sun began to awake.
Seems that the wrath of the gods
Got a punch on the nose and it started to flow;
I think I might be sinking.
Throw me a line if I reach it in time
I'll meet you up there where the path
Runs straight and high.
To find a queen without a king;
They say she plays guitar and cries and sings.
La la la la
Ride a white mare in the footsteps of dawn
Tryin to find a woman whos never, never, never been born.
Standing on a hill in my mountain of dreams,
Telling myself its not as hard, hard, hard as it seems.
Led Zeppelin:
Have to include Jake Shimabukuro:
The legendary Led Zeppelin song came to mind. I relate to certain parts of those lyrics - the journey, a new start, unkindness, leaving the past behind, etc....
One of the highlights of my concert-going life was seeing this song at a concert with John Paul Jones, Glen Phillips, Pete Thomas, and Nickel Creek. It was a collaboration they called Mutual Admiration Society. They played a concert at the Independent in San Francisco. It made an indelible mark.
Spent my days with a woman unkind,
Smoked my stuff and drank all my wine.
Made up my mind to make a new start,
Going to california with an aching in my heart.
Someone told me theres a girl out there
With love in her eyes and flowers in her hair.
Took my chances on a big jet plane,
Never let them tell you that they're all the same.
The sea was red and the sky was grey,
Wondered how tomorrow could ever follow today.
The mountains and the canyons started to tremble and shake
As the children of the sun began to awake.
Seems that the wrath of the gods
Got a punch on the nose and it started to flow;
I think I might be sinking.
Throw me a line if I reach it in time
I'll meet you up there where the path
Runs straight and high.
To find a queen without a king;
They say she plays guitar and cries and sings.
La la la la
Ride a white mare in the footsteps of dawn
Tryin to find a woman whos never, never, never been born.
Standing on a hill in my mountain of dreams,
Telling myself its not as hard, hard, hard as it seems.
Led Zeppelin:
Have to include Jake Shimabukuro:
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Albany
Today I'm in Albany, NY - the capital city of this fine state. After several weeks feeling a bit confined by my apartment, the thought of seeing a new city seemed exciting. So far it's been ok, other than some interpersonal drama. I think this experience - which I can't write too much about now - will simply add to my memoirs later in life.
The choice of a capital is puzzling. In the same way that California's biggest brightest cities were shunned for Sacramento. Albany is a sleepy little town, with some important business to do.
I have spent this morning at a local Starbucks. I scored a soft armchair, an electrical outlet, and pirated internet connection. I took a nap this morning, and am watching CNN. On a rainy day, stranded in a strange town, it doesn't get much better.
I'm back in NYC tonight.
The choice of a capital is puzzling. In the same way that California's biggest brightest cities were shunned for Sacramento. Albany is a sleepy little town, with some important business to do.
I have spent this morning at a local Starbucks. I scored a soft armchair, an electrical outlet, and pirated internet connection. I took a nap this morning, and am watching CNN. On a rainy day, stranded in a strange town, it doesn't get much better.
I'm back in NYC tonight.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Optimum Online/ 877393444- "EIGHT"!
If you live in the Bay Area, you don't have these commercials.... count your blessings!!
The latest commercial is like Desperate Housewives/ Dreamgirls/ Speedracer Granny:
(I love the kid with the 80's perm, and the grandma "typing")
The first one that appeared here is a combination of Puerto Rican MTV, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Baywatch:
The latest commercial is like Desperate Housewives/ Dreamgirls/ Speedracer Granny:
(I love the kid with the 80's perm, and the grandma "typing")
The first one that appeared here is a combination of Puerto Rican MTV, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Baywatch:
Thursday, May 08, 2008
Gray hair moment
I color my hair. It just looks better. My hair-stylist tells me that underneath it all I'm close to 40% gray at this point. I'd like think that makes me 40% wise....
Now that I've learned more about being human, I feel sorry for my younger self.
Things I've learned, that I wish I could have told myself years ago:
===================================================
Dreams eventually come true, but never at the time and the form wished for.
Emotions are wise, and tell the truth. They aren't who you are, they are just like guiding posts giving you signals about where to go with your life.
Everything works out if it's supposed to. You don't need to worry about which route you take, you just need to commit to the ride and you'll get there.
Time is precious, but life isn't a race.
Your spirit doesn't get old.
Other people do things out of their own motivations and view of the world. It can be quite different from yours and doesn't have much to do with you.
Your thoughts don't define you. They're just thoughts.
Fighting for or against anything doesn't work. Go with whatever works, rather than try to change what isn't working.
You will always be alone, but everyone else is alone with you.
Now that I've learned more about being human, I feel sorry for my younger self.
Things I've learned, that I wish I could have told myself years ago:
===================================================
Dreams eventually come true, but never at the time and the form wished for.
Emotions are wise, and tell the truth. They aren't who you are, they are just like guiding posts giving you signals about where to go with your life.
Everything works out if it's supposed to. You don't need to worry about which route you take, you just need to commit to the ride and you'll get there.
Time is precious, but life isn't a race.
Your spirit doesn't get old.
Other people do things out of their own motivations and view of the world. It can be quite different from yours and doesn't have much to do with you.
Your thoughts don't define you. They're just thoughts.
Fighting for or against anything doesn't work. Go with whatever works, rather than try to change what isn't working.
You will always be alone, but everyone else is alone with you.
Sunday, May 04, 2008
cops, cups and coffee - NY vs. San Jose
So, San Jose is trying to recruit New York cops.
It's my personal theory that badness of the coffee directly correlates with the bad-assness of the cops. (how do I know? I watch Law and Order, of course! Doesn't that make me an expert?)
So in order for this idea to work. The SJPD has to import the cheap $1-a-cup brew in the Greek-styled paper cups that fuels the law enforcement here.
---------------------------------------------------------------
San Jose recruiting New York cops
GETTING CAUGHT IN UNION BATTLE IS RISK OF TRYING TO LURE BIG APPLE'S FINEST
It's my personal theory that badness of the coffee directly correlates with the bad-assness of the cops. (how do I know? I watch Law and Order, of course! Doesn't that make me an expert?)
So in order for this idea to work. The SJPD has to import the cheap $1-a-cup brew in the Greek-styled paper cups that fuels the law enforcement here.
---------------------------------------------------------------
San Jose recruiting New York cops
GETTING CAUGHT IN UNION BATTLE IS RISK OF TRYING TO LURE BIG APPLE'S FINEST
Saturday, May 03, 2008
Praying for Time (George Michael touring the US)
I know I write about him a lot, just wanna say that George Michael has gotta be one of the most consistently great live performers in Pop music. My sister offered to take me to see him live in June. He's playing in the Bay Area. I am doing my best to pull off a trip at that time, or the very expensive concert tickets here in NYC. I'm keeping the hope alive.... praying for the time and money, if you will.
Anyway, this version of him at Wembley stadium is a nice meditation. Very contemplative. I like his re-working of the arrangement.
Anyway, this version of him at Wembley stadium is a nice meditation. Very contemplative. I like his re-working of the arrangement.
Terrence Howard wants to sing - falalalala!
I read this article today about Terrence Howard. I think he is a brilliant actor, and it blows my mind that he just really wants to sing. As I struggle with the whole career vs passion issue, it's fascinating to see someone who has really made it say that they didn't follow their true passion.
_____________________________________________
May 1, 2008
_____________________________________________
Iron Man,’ Schmiron Man: Terrence Howard just wants to sing
May 1, 2008
Terrence Howard is having a dream season for an actor, starring in one of the summer’s biggest movies with the superhero flick ‘‘Iron Man’’ and collecting critical acclaim for his Broadway role in ‘‘Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.’’
It would all be very exciting for Howard ... if acting was actually his true passion.
Actor and singer Terrence Howard poses at Virgin Megastore in New York.
(Diane Bondareff/AP)
(Diane Bondareff/AP)
Asked about taking his first major role more than a decade ago, Howard responds bitterly. ‘‘I wouldn’t have done it,’’ he says, his green eyes smoldering. ‘‘I would have stayed true to what I initially wanted to do.’’
What he really wants to concentrate on is singing.
Yes, singing.
Read more ---->>
I saw Iron Man
As I wrote about last week, I have been really excited to see Iron Man. I saw it last night, and it was EVEN BETTER than I had hoped. Like Batman Begins, or Spiderman, it brought realistic characters played by excellent actors to the comic-book genre.
Action scenes sometimes get on my nerves especially when the final 3rd act is a long fight/chase scene, that keeps going, going, going (In 2006 I fell asleep in "Superman" - yawn!). The finale of Iron Man didn't feel gratuitious. I thought it was terrific.
The movie is directed by Jon Favreau. I remember when he had his first big break 10 years ago with his indie hit, Swingers, and now he's this bad-ass blockbuster movie director! I just think that is so cool.
Robert Downey Jr. never disappoints, and it was so great to see him starring in the enormous film that his enormous talent deserves. I've been watching his movies for many, many years. Oh, and I love his foxy George Michael-esque facial hair in this film. Terrence Howard Jeff Bridges (another one of my faves) and Gwyneth Paltrow play secondary roles, that will hopefully be fleshed out in future installments.
Oh, and note to Jon Favreau, take Gwyneth out of the strappy heels for actions scenes, please! No woman - especially a prim assistant - wears shoes like that on a regular day at the office. I mean, the poor thing had to run through broken glass, up and down stairs and through parking lots. Eeek!
Action scenes sometimes get on my nerves especially when the final 3rd act is a long fight/chase scene, that keeps going, going, going (In 2006 I fell asleep in "Superman" - yawn!). The finale of Iron Man didn't feel gratuitious. I thought it was terrific.
The movie is directed by Jon Favreau. I remember when he had his first big break 10 years ago with his indie hit, Swingers, and now he's this bad-ass blockbuster movie director! I just think that is so cool.
Robert Downey Jr. never disappoints, and it was so great to see him starring in the enormous film that his enormous talent deserves. I've been watching his movies for many, many years. Oh, and I love his foxy George Michael-esque facial hair in this film. Terrence Howard Jeff Bridges (another one of my faves) and Gwyneth Paltrow play secondary roles, that will hopefully be fleshed out in future installments.
Oh, and note to Jon Favreau, take Gwyneth out of the strappy heels for actions scenes, please! No woman - especially a prim assistant - wears shoes like that on a regular day at the office. I mean, the poor thing had to run through broken glass, up and down stairs and through parking lots. Eeek!
Friday, May 02, 2008
I want someone to make me coffee....
Trisha Yearwood is one of the most beautiful voices in country music. She and Garth Brooks married a few years ago. I saw her in an interview recently where she said Garth makes her coffee every morning even though he doesn't drink it. I think that is so romantic.
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