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Showing posts with label Review. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Review. Show all posts

Friday, December 22, 2017

(OUTview NW) Out NPR co-host Ari Shapiro returned to his native Portland last month for his international-themed one-man show, 'Homeward'!

by MK Scott 

I first heard of Ari Shapiro two years ago. I knew he was someone from my hometown of Beaverton, OR and was a nationally known journalist working for NPR (National Public Radio) who'd become a co-host of the famed 'All Things Considered' program. We listen to him daily, here at the SGN offices.

I personally met Shapiro, 39, last fall at the Association of LGBTQ Journalists Convention in Philadelphia. About a month later I was thrilled to learn he would be in Portland to perform his one-man show, 'Homeward,' which he presented at the World Trade Auditorium in Portland last month. (On other occasions when he's in Portland he performs with the Portland-based band, Pink Martini.)

Wednesday, December 13, 2017

(OUTview NW) RE-view: Book-It's new musical adaptation of Howl's Moving Castle is timely and stays true to the original classic book!

by Brian Matt

Book-it Repertory Theatre's production of Howl's Moving Castle is a multilayered tapestry of exploration and discovery. Based on Myra Platt's adaptation of the book by Diana Wynn Jones, it delves into the lives of Sophie Hatter (Sara Porkalob) and her family and friends as they find their true selves.

Sophie, the eldest daughter of Fanny Hatter (Opal Peachey), begins by describing life in the town of Market Chipping in the land of Ingary. She also points out that her being the oldest has predisposed her to failure as she pursues her dreams. Her younger sister Lettie (Sarah Russell) and youngest sister Martha (Rachel Guyer-Mafune) join her singing about life. Fanny then appears and informs them they're going to need to leave school because she can't afford to pay for it any longer.

Lettie is to go to Cesari's bakery to become an apprentice - and she'll also be able to find a good husband there. Clearly un-enthused about baking, Lettie thanks her mother. Martha is being sent to Mrs. Fairfax (Kate Jaeger) to learn about magic. Also clearly disappointed, she thanks her mother as well. This leaves Sophie, who is assigned to the hat shop. Of all the sisters, she is the only one who is clearly resigned to her fate - being the oldest and feeling doomed to failure.

Fanny finds that Sophie is very skilled with making hats, so she puts Sophie in a corner making the hats while she herself sells them. Sophie begins to talk to the hats since she's so busy she doesn't have time to talk to anyone else. Surprisingly, they start to sell well. Fanny promises Sophie that she can have a day off on May Day, since she needs her to make hats as fast as possible.

Tuesday, October 17, 2017

(OUTview NW) San Francisco author and Seattle fave Armistead Maupin returned to Seattle to promote new memoir !

by MK Scott

To celebrate the October publication of his new memoir, Logical Family, the iconic queer writer, Armistead Maupin, author of Tales of the City and its sequels, sat down with Seattle Review of Books founder Paul Constant on Monday, October 16 for an insightful and entertaining conversation at the intimate Illsley Ball Nordstrom Recital Hall.

With a heartfelt introduction from longtime friend Dennis Coleman (formerly longtime artistic director for the Seattle Men's Chorus and Seattle Women's Chorus), the audience got a first-hand glimpse into the groundbreaking life and work of this legendary writer and activist.

One of the best moments was when Maupin answered a question regarding his writing process, saying: 'Leave them laughing, leave them crying, and leave them wanting more.'

It was an evening to remember.

Wednesday, October 4, 2017

(OUTview NW) Chris Botti jazzes up Seattle Symphony's Seattle Pops concert!

by MK Scott

After years of missing famed trumpeter, Chris Botti, perform live in Seattle at such local venues as Jazz Alley, I finally got my opportunity, but this time he was part of the Seattle Symphony's Seattle Pops concert - one of my favorite series - at Benaroya Hall this past weekend.

Botti performed with one of the top jazz pianists around, Geoffery Keezer, along with drummer, Lee Pearson and Michael Olatuja on bass.

The program included some incredible solo work by violinist, Caroline Campbell, guitarist, Leonardo Amuedo, and vocals by Sy Smith and Rafael Moras.

Accompanied by the Seattle Symphony conducted by Lawrence Loh, this concert was a mixture of familiar ballads, jazz, rock and American songbook standards.

Friday, September 22, 2017

(OUTview AMERICA) RE-view: Powerful performances and rough passion bring intensity to Afterglow, currently making a splash Off-Broadway

by MK Scott

 I don't get to New York often, but when I do I see as much theater as I can. I saw the musical, Bandstand (Sept. 5) during its final week but instead of another musical like Hello Dolly, Dear Evan Hansen, or even Hamilton, I had much anticipation for an Off-Broadway show (Sept. 6) that is now the talk of the country and which has now been extended for two more months.

As the synopsis on the Afterglow website states: 'Afterglow is a raw, one-act play exploring the emotional, intellectual, and physical connections between three men and the broader implications within their relationships.

'Josh and Alex, a married couple in an open relationship, invite Darius to share their bed one night. When a new intimate connection begins to form, all three men must come to terms with their individual definitions of love, loyalty, and trust as futures are questioned, relationships are shaken, and commitments are challenged.'

Monday, July 31, 2017

(OUTview NW) Victor Janusz's 'Summer Crooners' concert at Egan's in Ballard made the summer swell!

by MK Scott

On Saturday, July 29th Seattle's amazing piano-man, Victor Janusz (VJ) along with his always smooth Medearis Dixson (MD), on sax, appeared in a return engagement at Egan's Ballard Jam House (1707 NW Market St.)

The show was titled 'VJ and his Summer Crooners' with special guests; Arwen Dewey, Marilyn Deering, Mama SUE and Arnaldo! (Out of Drag).

VJ started the show by performing his latest classic, 'Bones of Richard III,' from his current CD, Living in a Blue State, and then spoke with elation about seeing the legendary Burt Bacharach at Jazz Alley a few weeks ago, which lead into a Burt Bacharach medley of 'Are You There With Another Boy?,' 'Knowing When to Leave' and 'The Look of Love.' Later, VJ and MD performed 'Never Can Say Goodbye.'

VJ also announced an upcoming French-English standard album that he has been recording with singer Arwen Dewey who sang the following songs in French: 'Route Nationals 7', 'Sous L' Ciel de Paris' and 'Le Baiser.' One song, 'Via Con Mi' was sung in Italian.

Friday, June 23, 2017

(OUTview NW) RE-view: Peaches Christ was back, front and center; Ben DelaCreme and Major Scales shined in 9 to 5 Inches

by MK Scott

The SIFF Egyptian Theatre had a full house on Thursday, June 15th for the stage show and parody, 9 to 5 Inches, written and directed by Peaches Christ and produced by Qurb Productions. This time Peaches was finally front and center as Peachie (the role originally played by Jane Fonda in the film version). Joining her was the iconic, Heklina (in the Lily Tomlin role) and 'Rupaul Drag Race' alum, Pandora Box (in the Dolly role).

Local queen and 'Drag Race' alum, Ben Delacreme was a hoot as Roz and Major Scales (after 2 days notice) was phenomenal as slimy Mr. Fart. The role was going to be played by Mackenzie Miller, but due to illness he had to bale out. Several other local performers made cameo appearances, including, Fraya Love, Strawberry Shartcake, Isabella Extynn, Angel Snowbunny, Visage LaRue, and Tipsy Rose Lee!

Tuesday, April 25, 2017

(OUTview NW) RE-view: Frozen at Artswest is 'Killer' Entertainment!

Photo credit- John McLellan
by MK Scott

 A play about a serial killer of children may be depressing and hard to watch, but when Artswest Playhouse, under the direction of Mathew Wright, and  with powerhouse actors of Amy Thone (Festen, My name is Asher Levi) and Peter Crook (The Seagull Project), that changes the dynamics immensely.

 With anecdotes of humor in all the right places,  the play is gripping as it is entertaining. With the addition of Jonelle Jordan as Agnetha is a psychologist who is as crazy as her patients and some of her behavior is hysterical.

With all seriousness aside, Ralph (Crook) is a disturbed man who creates fantasy that leads to reality and his sickness of sexually molesting and killing towards young girls. One girl, Rhona is in the wrong place at the wrong time, while her mother, Nancy (Thone) is hopeful that her missing daughter could return at any moment.

Once caught, Angetha arrives at the prison to determine if Ralph is pure evil or pure mad. Nancy wants Ralph to suffer and die. 

Nancy wants to confront her child's killer and goes to see Ralph against Agnetha's wishes. Nancy tells Ralph, she forgives him and is ready to move on. Getting there to that stage creates moving performances. 


The set was interesting as each actor had their own stage and space, but by the end of the play, those spaces are shared by two actors at month. The being in-the-round created more intimately with the audience. 

Artswest's Frozen, by Bryony Lavery and directed by Mathew Wright continues through May 14th. Tickets at http://www.artswest.org

Thursday, April 13, 2017

(OUTview NW) RE-view: Bob the Drag Queen takes center stage and Sparkle Leigh and Abby Roads shine in Peaches Christ's 'Legally Black'!

by MK Scott

The SIFF Egyptian Theatre had a full house on Thursday, April 6 for the stage show and parody, Legally Black, written and directed by Peaches Christ and produced by Qurb Productions. As usual, Peaches gave her star, RuPaul's Drag Race Season 8 winner, Bob the Drag Queen, room to shine.

As Peaches Christ said in her March 31 interview with the Seattle Gay News, she created this show for Bob at the suggestion of the Seattle producer Jimmy Scarpello.

This production was wonderful!

Local queen Sparkle Leigh sparkled and shined in the role of Professor Stromwell made famous by Holland Taylor in the movie Legally Blonde. Several other local performers made cameo appearances, including Mahlae Balenciaga, (the delicious) Mackenzie Miller, Isabella Extynn (out of drag as the UPS man), Fraya Love, La Gaviota, Strawberry Shartcake, Kristie Champagne, and Stacey Starstruck.

Abbey Roads was picture perfect as the defendant, Anna Nicole Smith (yes, Anna Nicole) - I heard later that she borrowed Drew Paradisco's breast plate to enhance her assets.

Wednesday, March 29, 2017

(OUTview NW) RE-view: Fanstastic Z's 'Bad Panda' is Really Good, Yes, Really!

by MK Scott

Listen to this scenario, 2\two pandas have mating issues, and things spice up when the male panda is seduced by a crocodile. Ok, you expect this camp from Fantastic Z theater, but what "Bad Panda' is, is good and not to be missed.

The 90-minute play by Megan Gogerty and directed by Kate Huisentruit delves into the argument of straight relationships as for pro-creation and what truly makes a family.

In the animal world there are issues about conservation and same sex attraction as well.

Gwo Gwo and Marion (Richard Sean Glen and Helen Martin). are two mating pandas and are dreaming of having a family. Unfortunately, Gwo Gwo's equipment doesn't seem to working but when he meets flamboyant Chester (the incredible, Michael Ryan Blackwood), Gwo Gwo has no problem in connecting with Chester in a natural way.

When Marion discovers the truth and goes missing, she later returns insisting she has delivered a baby panda. The audience is unsure if the baby stuffed panda is real or imaginary.

As Chester slithers in and out of the den, Marion and Panda-like Chester start as Hostile to slowly creating a bond as Gwo Gwo becomes more crocodile and grows up in the same process.

Fantastic Z "Bad Panda" continues through Aril 8th at Theatre Off Jackson through April 8th. For tickets or information visit them online at www.fantasticz.org.

Saturday, March 11, 2017

(OUTview NW) RE-view: Spectrum Dance Theater's 'Rambunctious' series shines light on 'The Immigrants' !

(Jazzy Photo)
by MK Scott

Seattle's prestigious Spectrum Dance Theater lead by nationally-celebrated choreographer Donald Byrd addressed the current topic of 'Immigrants' last week in the third iteration of their 'Rambunctious' series.

The dances, all choreographed by Donald Byrd, are set to music composed by American classical composers who are Americans but not native born. The production focuses on immigrants coming from Mexico, the Middle East, Cuba and China, places that America has sometimes been at odds with or that are part of the current debate on immigration.

The music and costumes, as well as the movement, tell the story.

Tuesday, February 21, 2017

(OUTview NW) RE-view: Sarah Rudinoff is a Triumph as Lisa Kron in 'Well' at Seattle Rep!

Sarah Rudinoff as Lisa Kron in “Well” at Seattle Rep. (Alan Alabastro)
by MK Scott

Sarah Rudinoff is a Seattle treasure as is writer/performer, Lisa Kron is beloved on a national level and with the production of 'Well' currently at the Seattle Rep, ii is triumph, even though getting there is little confusing.

I had thought this was a one woman show at first with Rudinoff (as Kron) talking to the audience and then we are introduced to her mother, Ann (Barbara Dirickson).  (Kron's mother, not Rudinoff's).


Kron, the Tony-winning lyricist and book writer of musical “Fun Home” (the Lesbian musical), first made her mark in solo performance, and she starred in both the off-Broadway and Broadway productions of “Well.”

We learn that Lisa a directing a play and Ann wants to know what it is about. It is autobiographical, and claims it is not about her over-bearing mother. But is it really?

Thursday, February 9, 2017

(OUTview NW) RE-view: It was an 1980's Party with all-new Nu Shooz and Animotion at Everett's Historic Theatre.

by MK Scott

While the 1990s was the era for Seattle music (Nirvana, Pearl Jam), it was Portland in the 1980s that was the birthplace of three incredible bands. I am talking about the legendary sound of Quarterflash (headed by Pat Benatar-like Rindy Ross), the percussion-heavy Dan Reed Network (headed by dreamy Dan Reed, with a Jon Bon Jovi-like smirk) and finally the Pop/R&B/Funk style of Nu Shooz (led by Valerie Day with husband, John Smith).

After a lengthy hiatus from the world of Pop/Funk and Soul (to raise a family and play other styles of music) Valerie and John have revived the original Nu Shooz sound. The husband and wife team are back on the road as part of the Super Freestyle Explosion Tour with their live eight-piece band, Shoo-Horns, and are playing shows for the first time in 25 years.

Saturday, January 21, 2017

(OUTview NW) RE-view: Hometown girl Megan Hilty earns standing ovation at Benaroya Hall with Seattle Symphony Pops

by MK Scott

It was a full house at Benaroya Hall this past Saturday, January 14th, when Bellevue-bred turned Broadway and TV star, Megan Hilty, returned to Benaroya Hall for the first time since 2010, when she was the guest artist in the Seattle Men's Chorus' 'Holiday Glee' concert. This time she was invited by guest conductor Steven Reineke (from the New York Pops) for the Seattle Symphony Pop series.

The energetic Reineke led the full symphony with a montage of musical songs featuring Blondes, before introducing special guest, Megan Hilty (wearing a blue ball gown) singing Loesser's 'Luck Be a Lady.' The theme of the concert actually was 'Luck Be a Lady: Megan Hilty Sings Sinatra and More.' The seven-months pregnant, Hilty, 35, showed off her baby bump and announced she was expecting a boy to join her two-year-old daughter, Viola, due in March.

Thursday, January 19, 2017

(OUTview NW) RE-view: Latrice Royale takes center stage and Willam and Abby Roads shine in Peaches Christ's 'MISTER ACT'!


by MK Scott

The SIFF Egyptian Theatre had a full house on Thursday, January 12 for the stage show and parody, 'Mister Act,' written and directed by Peaches Christ and produced by Qurb Productions. As usual, Peaches gave her star, Latrice Royale, room to shine.

As Peaches Christ said in our January 6 interview in the Seattle Gay News, she had created this show for Royale, at the suggestion of Willam who also had a part in the show.

Local queen Abbey Roads was picture perfect in the hysterical role made famous by Kathy Najimy (in the movie version of 'Sister Act') as 'Sister Abbey Roads Najimy.'

Several other local performers made cameo appearances, including Sylvia O'Stayformore (as Sister Sylvia Lazarus), Aisha Oni, Sparkle Leigh, La Gaviota, Fraya Love,  Isabella Extynn, and Strawberry Shartcake.

Wednesday, January 18, 2017

(OUTview NW) RE-view: 'Woody Sez' bring Song and Protest to the Seattle Rep!

(Michael Doucett)
by MK Scott

You may have never heard of singer and songwriter, Woody Guthrie, but certainly have heard his songs that became folk anthems. Does "This Land is your Land" ring a bell?

In a concert style musical, Woody Sez, currently at the Seattle Repertory Theater, showcases parts of Guthrie's life through music.

In the backdrop of the dusty plains, during the great depression of the 1930's, Guthrie uses songs to protest like many of contemporaries from Dylan to Springsteen, and becomes a folk hero and pioneer.

Sunday, January 1, 2017

(OUTview NW) How the New Years Eve Party at the Chihuly (in the shadow of the Space Needle) became one of the most exciting moments of my life!

by MK Scott

For the second year in a row I was lucky enough to attend the annual New Year's Eve Gala at Chihuly Garden and Glass (located next to the Space Needle at Seattle Center) with my boyfriend, Brian. As usual this was a high artsy affair and is clearly one of the best ways to celebrate New Year's Eve.

When we first arrived we kept our coats on because it was indeed a chilly night as we ventured outside to visit the outdoor glass garden. (By the time we'd arrived at 9pm, the always-enjoyable live glassblowing demonstrations from the Community Hot Shop had closed down.) We then came back inside, checked our coats and toured the museum's display of Dale Chihuly's work. It's an impressive collection.

After 10pm, the party officially moved into the Glasshouse ballroom, where there was live music from the Craig Lawrence Band, free appetizers and pastries, and a no-host bar. By midnight, everyone had received a glass of champagne as we waited and looked up at the Space Needle from the glass roof as we counted down to the start of 2017.

Watching the fireworks coming out of the Space Needle was an exciting moment and this year was by far one of the best displays I had ever seen.
After the fireworks Brian and I sipped our champagne to bring in the New Year and celebrate our engagement (Yes, Really)! .

This Article also was featured in the Seattle Gay News!


Thursday, December 15, 2016

(OUTview NW) RE-view: Ham for the Holidays is Back and Gayer than ever!

Shielding the Candy?    (Bennion)
By MK Scott

It is that time of year again that we get to Check IN with the Spudds and the Drama queens of the Sequim Gay Men's Chorus and more at Ham for the Holidays: Jurassic Pork.  Always performed by Seattle comedy legends of Lisa Koch and Peggy Platt! Also last but not least the supporting talents of Michael Oaks, Abbie Drake and the ripping beefcake of Joel Domenico (Judy's Scary Christmas, Robbie Turner Revue) plus newcomer, Bruce Hall, made his debut as Musical director and new head of the Sequim Chorus, replacing DJ Gommels  .

Once again (For 4 years in a row) with a larger budget at ACT Theater and a Full house, this comedy masterminds went from sketch after sketch with professional ease.

Tuesday, December 6, 2016

(OUTview NW) RE-view: SMC's Silver and Soul is Bittersweet with the Old and the New!

 (John Pai)
by MK Scott

It wasn't easy last season for the Seattle Men's Chorus as they prepared to say farewell to Dennis Coleman who was retiring after being the artistic director for 35 years. With a new conductor at the helm, Paul Caldwell is headed for a slow, but positive start.

If you hadn't heard about Caldwell being a victim of a Hit and Run, you were missing out. As we learned more about Caldwell we learned he is slowly returning and has lots of respect to preserve the Coleman Legacy. As a speaker, Caldwell inspires more so then the mild-mannered Coleman.

With no Guest artist, the first time in over a decade, it was just the chorus and the audience getting to know Mr. Caldwell.

The small orchestra was the best in recent memory and the songs had a different sound.

Friday, December 2, 2016

(WORLD AIDS DAY) The 13th Annual Stronger Together World AIDS Day Breakfast brings triumph and hope!

(vj)
by MK Scott

On Thursday morning, December 1, the LGBTQ and allies community came together for the 13th Annual Stronger Together World AIDS Day Breakfast. After over a decade at the Washington State Convention Center, it moved next door to the Seattle Sheraton Hotel this year.

After an incredible performance of the 'The Sacred Music' by Victor Janusz, the program featured welcoming remarks from KOMO 4 News anchor Molly Shen and messages from Gay City's Fred Swanson and Seattle Counseling Service Executive Director, Ann McGettigan.

This year's honorees were, long-time HIV/AIDS community activist Tony Radovich, and Phyllis Little-Epamynonda from the People of Color Against AIDS Network (POCAAN).

This year's keynote speaker was Washington State Secretary of Health John Wiesman, who recognized accomplishments in our state in the fight against HIV/AIDS, including the first state to promote PrEP.

Beneficiaries of the breakfast were Gay City: Seattle's LGBTQ Center, Seattle Counseling Service, and CareTeams, a program of Samaritan Center of Puget Sound.

Also Posted in the Seattle Gay News
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