Rose Theatre Brampton Backstage Pass

AN IRRESISTIBLE INVITATION

2012-01-27T14:43:00.000-05:00

“I wanted to make an album where every song had meaning,where every song told a story and would lift you up and give you a reason to get up in the morning. And I know it’s going to feel really good singing these songs on stage.”

These are the words of Mavis Staples about her last album "You Are Not Alone". A inspired song to warm a cold day. Here is your chance to feel the warmth. Tonight at 8pm, Mavis Staples takes the Rose Theatre stage. Let her "get it through to you"!

A Suspended Moment with Artist Janet Simmons Sweet

2012-01-26T10:46:00.000-05:00

Nature has taken over the Rose Theatre Art Gallery from December to March through the beatiful paintings of Janet Simmons Sweet. Using the canvas to represent moments where light and colour provide respite to the viewer, Janet translates to the canvas a nature "full of life". We invited her to talk more about her works.

1. When/how did you begin painting?

I started painting as a teenager, and then continued sporadically through a career with a bank and raising a child. Then in 1998 I was diagnosed with cancer, which I now refer to as the best thing that ever happened to me. It woke me up to reset my entire life, to be one with a passion for living. Art. My passion. I went back to painting, eventually joining an art organization in Brampton called Beaux-Arts, and became a full-time Artist over four years ago with a Studio at the Alton Mill.

2. What is the place of your art in a world bombarded with images?

I paint the moment of light and colour where I have found calm and peace. It is my intention that the viewer in a world bombarded by other images, will find and feel that suspended moment.

3. Can we consider your work naturalist art?

I do lean toward subject matters in a natural setting (my favourite being trees in all their stages of life), where I find my most constant peaceful moment. However, that is not to say that any other subject matter with spectacular light and colour is not considered for my intention.

4. Do you think your style is an interesting way to provoke the actual status of the art? Why?

I am actually not interested in provoking anything. Artistically or, in response to your question the status of the art. I firmly believe that anything, with any kind of value at all, does not need to find success through provocation.

5. How the Bill Davis experimental educational program influenced your works?

The Bill Davis experimental educational program was designed with independent study of core subjects, allowing a student who maintained an average of 85% in any subject, to self teach. I chose to self teach all the core subjects, with the exception of the Arts. This provided me with intense instruction in all mediums of the visual arts, and expanded all the other disciplines. I was given an outstanding opportunity to learn both the technical aspects of the Arts, and an appreciation of its considerable impact, that is present in all my works today.

6. What tendencies do you find in the student’s artwork as a juror for multiple Arts Organizations?

I am thrilled to find the enthusiasm in our community for visual arts. The artwork presented in Juried Shows has been in multi-mediums and in every style imagined. The Arts grow and change, and yet remain the same with its message.

7. What does it mean to you to have your work on display at the Rose Theatre Art Gallery?

I feel the Rose Theatre is one of the proudest concepts architectually that Brampton has to offer to the community, and housing the Arts, a perfect marriage. Being given the opportunity to exhibit in this outstanding venue, joining the visual arts with the performing arts, makes my heart sing!

8. Could you give any advice to the new artists?

Believe in yourself. Don't give up. Join in with the Artist Community where you live. Live passionately through your art.

Janet Simmons Sweet
December, 7, 2011 - March 3, 2012

Rose Theatre Art Gallery - 1 Theatre Lane, Brampton, ON
Hours of Operation: Mon - Sun 12PM - 8PM
Please see Box Office staff or security on site for access to the gallery.

The Remarkable Mavis Staples On Stage This Friday

2012-01-25T13:25:00.000-05:00

You still have time to see one of the "100 Greatest Singers Of All Time", Mavis Staples comes to the Rose this Friday, Jan 27.

Grammy Award winner for Best Americana Album for "You Are Not Alone", Staples will bring to the audience her distinctive blend of gospel and blues.

Expect to be mesmerized by Staples remarkable and smoky voice, singing songs such as the famous "I'll Take You There", theme of the 1975 Sidney Poitier movie Let's Do It Again.

In an Odeum article this month, Mavis harkens back to the early 60s and talks about how the Staples Singers supported Martin Luther King and the freedom movement. To read more click here

AGA BOOM - Not Your Regular, Everyday Wacky Group from Russia

2012-01-23T10:00:00.001-05:00

The clowns of Aga Boom

By Catherine Cubitt (excerpt from Odeum Magazine, January 2012)

You might be asking yourself what Aga-Boom is all about. Truth be told, there is no one-word answer to capture the hilarity that is Aga-Boom.

If you’re looking to start the New Year with something exciting and entertaining for the whole family, then the Rose Theatre is the place to be on January 24th.

The word “Aga-Boom” itself is a humorous spin on the Russian word for paper, boomaga. (Trust me; this makes perfect sense once you experience the show’s finale.)

Find out more about Aga Boom... download the magazine here

The Incredible Sounds of BJ Thomas

2011-11-02T17:17:00.000-04:00

An excerpt from BlogTalkRadio.com:

“BJ Thomas, owns one of the most distinctive voices in American pop music—a reassuringly masculine timbre conveyed with a smattering of unique embellishments that represent a distillation of the most influential genres in pop culture. Nothing about the identifiable sound of B.J. Thomas’ voice has changed, but there’s a re-energized commitment behind it.”

Read the whole entry and listen to an interview with BJ Thomas.

Thomas performs Thursday, November 3 at 8PM. For last minute seats call 905-874-2800.

Ron Sexsmith Shortlisted for a Polaris Prize

2011-09-23T13:37:00.001-04:00

Ron Sexsmith will be at the Rose on October 20 and we are really excited to present this incredible Canadian singer and songwriter to you (btw, Ron was shortlisted for the Polaris Prize 2011 and you can see a podcast of his performance at the event here: ). I'm sure many of you are already familiar with Ron but if you don't know his music, please check it out, you'll be in good company, some of his biggest fans are music legends including Paul McCartney, Elton John, Paul Simon, Elvis Costello...

Here's an excerpt from a blog entry on Ron from The Delete Bin that I thought was great - it really gives you a sense of the gentle soul behind the music.

"Ron and his band played the Rio Theatre here in Vancouver, April 1. I met with Ron after the show, and chatted with him. He was affable, generous with his time, and very receptive to fans. He signed albums, posed for pictures, and had conversations with everyone. He recognized several fans who had met him in other venues, and called them by name. A community member on the RonSexsmith.com forum was recognized, and complimented on posts the community member had made there, which Ron had read..."

Check out the full series of interviews on Ron at The Delete Bin, http://thedeletebin.com/2011/04/04/interview-with-ron-sexsmith-post-love-shines/.

The Drawer Boy Post Show Talk Back

2011-08-23T15:21:00.000-04:00

The Drawer Boy cast and director Scott Lale discuss the show and answer audience questions.

Director's Rehearsal - Cabaret Part 2

2011-08-17T11:23:00.001-04:00

by Danny Harvey | Director
So...this blog is late for one very simple reason... time. Everything to do with theatre has to do with time. First of all, there is never enough time. We don’t ever seem to have enough rehearsal time, time with the band, time with choreography or time in the theatre before we open... not even close to enough time. Over the past 5 years that the Rose Theatre has been open, we have become time ninjas. We work around the clock..quite literally... to get the sound, lights and set into place.

We separate our rehearsal time into Music, Choreography and Blocking/Staging, We usually start with music. It's important that everyone know their songs and harmonies before we layer dance over them, if there is a dance number that is handled by our Choreographer, they shape the song with style and dance moves designed to convey the mood and story. Then I, as director, handle the blocking or staging, telling the story through planned movements on the stage. Every cross, turn, inflection,and accent is carefully discussed and considered. We lay all of these elements out, listen to each others ideas and then we repeat everything until it's second nature.

Timing also plays an important role in the storyline of Cabaret. This show is set in 1929 – 1930 Germany. This is considered in all aspects of design. For example costumes are mostly vintage. Many of the set pieces are antiques or reproductions built by our production design team. Props are authentic, to the tiniest detail. Our actors consider the time frame for how they move, interact, and present the customs of the day. Cabaret is a history lesson. Don't let that scare you though, it's by far the hottest history lesson you’re ever going to have. I love the feeling of this piece, its about the world losing its innocence and naivety.

Then there is the realistic timing of getting this show going. As our patrons arrive usually a half hour or so before curtain and enter to watch our show, it would appear that everything is effortless as cast and crew present the spoils of our labour. This is an illusion... Behind those curtains and walls there is a whispered organized chaos... all helmed by a genius with a clip board and a stop watch. The stage manager, half deity and half mental case, is the invisible puppet master. Every light change, every set piece, every entrance, every microphone turned on or off are all called by the stage manger in perfect time. If you ever meet someone in your life and find out they are a stage manager, buy them a beer... they deserve it.

Most of all, we create this work for one very simple reason, we want our audience to have an incredible time. That really is what this is all about... Theatre is not really as glamorous as we all thought it would be, but there is no better feeling than knowing you have truly moved an audience. Our reward is applause and knowing you have had an amazing time... because of course timing is everything.

Summer Theatre Season -Set Designer Vaughn Davis on creating the perfect setting for The Drawer Boy

2011-08-04T14:08:00.000-04:00

Carpenters Michelle Inksetter and Stephen Nixon

First thing you have to think about when designing a show in the Studio Theatre at the Rose Theatre is how to arrange the room. The space has more of a Keystone shape so to maximize seating, there aren’t many options. We’ve decided to go with a stadium seating layout for “The Drawer Boy”. This lets us use the entire back wall to hang a sky drop which makes the playing area seem much bigger than it actually is.

Once we’ve decided on that, it’s time to create the playing space! The biggest Challenge on this show was to create a playing area that was large enough to incorporate the inside and outside of an old farm house while keeping the mood intimate for the actors and for the audience. This was achieved by creating a big contrast between both locations. The inside of the house is built on an elevated riser with solid cut away walls and a cut away roof that completely defines the living space. Once you step outside onto the porch, the cutaway porch railings push your eye towards Stage Left and UP which makes the sky drop and the tree seem to extended up past the ceiling of the theatre which (in theory) makes the outside space seem huge, but doesn’t affect the intimate feeling of the inside space.

Of course none of what is seen on the stage would ever happen without our amazing carpenters (Stephen Nixon and Michelle Inksetter) and our extremely talented scenic artists (Jaspal Birdi and Danielle Demeny).

Although there are challenges in designing a show in the studio space…they are challenges that make the job fun and interesting for everyone involved.

-Vaughn Davis

Director's Notes from Day 1 of Rehearsal - Cabaret

2011-07-25T16:49:00.000-04:00

by Danny Harvey | Director
Summer Theatre Season 2011 | Rose Theatre Brampton
The first day of rehearsal is an interesting time. I always liken it to the first day of school. There are some actors you know, and who know each other and they catch up on what they have done since they last saw each other. Many actors discuss mutual friends and old friends tend to pick up where they left off. Then there are the actors who are new to the company or haven’t worked with anyone else in the room, they are usually more quiet and mostly observe. Its an interesting thing to watch someone whose job it is to be an extrovert be introverted and shy. If I want to push my school metaphor as a director I should fit in as the theatrical equivalent of the role of teacher, but I was always more comfortable as a class clown. As everyone arrives its generally very social and boisterous these creative people are very excited. I’m always a little nervous, a little anxiety keeps the work fresh and interesting. I like it.

As a cast and crew we all settle around the table and then do a design presentation where our resident set designer Vaughn Davis comes in and talks through the set design to give everyone an idea of the space we work in. Design presentation is followed by introductions where the actors say their names and who they are playing. We discuss concept for the show, working styles, do a little paper work then the excitement really begins...

Directing a musical is an incredible job. All the steps leading up the first day, reading scripts, ordering the performance rights, hiring our music director (Rosalind Mills) and choreographer(M.J. Shaw) hundreds of auditions, callbacks, endless negotiating with agents, budgeting etc… The first read… well the first read is where I finally get to hear what this show is going to become. I must say; I am ridiculously excited. Cabaret is in my opinion a perfect show, for those who love a good story with a lot of emotion and highs and lows…we have you covered, for those of you who love big production numbers and song and dance… we have that too.

Cabaret is a masterpiece of theatre. The coolest part of my job is just beginning. Creating this world and telling this story is overwhelming at times, How do I correctly convey the emotion to our audience, how do I keep the patrons engaged? how do we get all these set pieces on and off? How do I push the envelope of risqué and not end up appearing crass? These plus a thousand more questions are what I will be asked by my cast, artistic team crew and myself.

The weight of responsibility is shared by all of us, a group of strangers becoming a creative family for the next 5 weeks or so. We get to take some words off a page and breathe life into it. We create music, visual poetry that exists only for an instant on the stage. Live theatre has that magic to it. A unique experience that only a few of us get to have. Even in long runs of shows, night after night no two moments are completely identical… that is what keeps bringing me back .

As the first day of rehearsal closes as usual my mantra is…”I hope I don’t screw this up”

A Chorus Line - Interview with Kent Sheridan

2011-07-20T15:15:00.001-04:00

A Chorus Line opens at the Rose Theatre on Friday, July 22 and runs for 8 performances until July 30. In this video, Kent Sheridan talks about his portrayal of Zach, the director/choreographer and shares his "big break" story.

Cast Highlight # 4 - Julia Juhas - A Chorus Line

2011-07-13T11:49:00.000-04:00

“God I Hope I Get It. I Hope I Get It.”…One of the many lines in the show A Chorus Line that are all too familiar to the life of a performer. It’s an ongoing battle, constantly fighting for the next job/show. The story of A Chorus Line is close to home in more ways than one. The cattle calls, the rejections, the injuries and the gossip and rumors takes its toll on us. Despite the up hill climb somehow we find our way to the top every now and then and still manage to pay rent on time…occasionally.

Its always a treat to perform in A Chorus Line because its one of those shows as an artist where you can relate to almost every character or understand where they are coming from. The last two weeks of rehearsals have reminded me of how intense and precise this show is and the dedication and focus it requires. Between singing the right notes and lyrics all the while remembering and performing the right dance steps - it’s not enough to just be a great dancer or a great singer or a great actor, you have to do it all. You can’t hide in the ensemble - everyone stands out in this show and that’s what makes it so special. The book, the music and the choreography of A Chorus Line complement each other quite brilliantly.

Julia plays the role of Cassie Ferguson in the Rose Summer Theatre Season's production of A Chorus Line, on stage at the Rose Theatre Brampton July 22 - 30.

Cast Highlight #3 - Sweeney MacArthur (The 39 Steps)

2011-07-06T09:00:00.000-04:00

Sweeney in The War Show (2010)

Just days away from the opening of The 39 Steps and this place is buzzing with excitement! There are only 4 actors in the play but they’re portraying 100 characters! How is this done? With economy, efficiency and a huge dose of humour. One of the actors splitting himself into many personalities is Sweeney MacArthur. I won’t call Sweeney a veteran actor (although he is), rather a “seasoned actor”. Did you catch him in “Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day" (2009)? Or maybe you recognized his voice in “Gotta Catch Santa Claus” (2008) with William Shatner playing the big man himself? Back to The 39 Steps - I asked him what it was like playing so many different people? “I'm a bit scattered anyways! I think most actors have secret multiple personalities inside them. The tricky part is varying up things with accents, the way you move your body, etc, to make them different and interesting.” Then I point out that he’s play three old ladies as well. “I think I'm a pretty woman, but the rest of the cast seems to disagree.” Well, I promise we’ll let you know Sweeney.

The 39 Steps runs Friday, July 8 to Saturday, July 30 in the Rose Theatre Studio Two, but the first three performances are SOLD OUT! For more information and to order your tickets visit www.rosetheatre.ca or call 905-874-2800.

Written by Gabriella Currie.

Cast Highlight #2 - Erin MacKinnon (The 39 Steps)

2011-06-29T15:36:00.000-04:00

We are starting another week of rehearsals and Robert Woodcock (director) has had such a clear vision of The 39 Steps from the very beginning that it has really given all of us, as actors, much freedom to explore our characters within the parameters of the script.

This is one of those wonderful shows that you get to be really challenged as an actor because you get the opportunity to play so many different characters. In my case I am playing three women who all have very distinct personalities, not to mention accents (one German, one Scottish and the last British).

Erin (with Sweeney MacArthur)
in a promotional shot for
7 Stories (2010)

Rehearsals have be an absolute joy since day one. Here we are well into the process and Sweeney, Scott and Mark are continuously making me laugh as their characters grow leaps and bounds every day. It was at the end of last week Geoff Nantes (sound designer) came in and added the sound cues to the show. Which, in this show in particular, have proven to be the icing on the cake. From telephone rings to train whistles the sound has really added so much detail to the scenes and will be such an asset this week as we start to do full runs of the show.

My favourite sound cue, although I am a little biased, will be my seven week old daughter's stage debut....so you will have to listen for it. This is my first show since she was born and I have to say that working with such a creative and inspiring group of people during the day and coming home to a beautiful little baby makes me feel like I have it all. I am very blessed indeed.

The 39 Steps runs Friday, July 8 to Saturday, July 30 in the Rose Theatre Studio Two. For more information and to order your tickets visit www.rosetheatre.ca or call 905-874-2800.

Cast Highlight #1 - Scott Carmichael (The 39 Steps)

2011-06-23T14:58:00.000-04:00

Two plus weeks into rehearsals for the fabulous choice for this summer's Rose studio lineup, The 39 Steps. I honestly can't remember the last time I was involved in a project that was so intrinsically and delightfully creative in nature. So much of the way the piece is presented is left open to the ingenuity of not only the creative team and cast, but also the stage management crew, set builders, and props masters. Certainly the show presented at the Rose will be unlike any other production of The 39 Steps anywhere else. Each production, though sharing certain universal concepts, will have several completely unique moments and sequences, limited only by the imaginations of each unique collection of creative minds.

Scott performing with Jaden
Carmichael in Scrooge! (2009)

Director Rob Woodcock had clearly put in countless hours of pre-work and research before the first day of rehearsals, as he had ready for us on day one not only a clear and firm vision of how we were going to stage the show effectively in the somewhat restrictive studio space, but many of the set pieces and props already built and available for we actors to use! Before the first week was finished we also had many of our costume pieces already on-site down at the rehearsal hall on Orenda Rd.

One of the challenges (and greatest delights) for me personally working on The 39 Steps, is the opportunity to play multiple characters. The show is based on the classic Hitchcock movie of course, and one of the stageplay's devices (and hopefully great sources of entertainment) is the fact that Mark is playing the main character of the film and the 3 remaining actors (Erin, Sweeney, and myself) play all the rest of the characters in the film!!!

It is a true test of my skills and repertoire as I am responsible for creating 14 clearly defined and unique characters. Many changes are in rapid-fire style (sometimes for comic effect) requiring a quick and seamless transition into a different costume, age, physicality, and accent in moments!

Thank goodness Sweeney (who is also a professional and well-reknowned accent coach) is around to help....

Look for another update from me soon....it's time for me to get back to committing my lines to memory :)

Scott C

Summer Theatre Season: Director's Roundtable Take 1

2011-06-13T13:25:00.000-04:00

Scott Lale, Danny Harvey, and Robert Woodcock chat with Gabriella Currie about getting ready for the Rose Summer Theatre Season.

Summer Scoop #1

2011-05-31T16:12:00.000-04:00

We’re very passionate about theatre! And we know you are too so we’re determined to let you know what’s happening this summer in our studio theatre and on the main stage. We’re serving up 2 great plays and 2 great musicals. All the stuff that happens around each production will be fodder for your curiosity. Our producers, technicians, directors, actors, wardrobe people, set designers, choreographers - well pretty much every person who’s involved in production – will share their thoughts, ideas and creations with you. We’re going to blog, vlog and otherwise flog ourselves for you. Check us out anytime at www.rosetheatre.ca/

Inside the 10-11 Artist Minds - Part 7

2011-04-07T16:31:00.000-04:00

Don't miss 'That Canadian Guy' Glen Foster at the Rose Theatre Brampton on April 15 at 8PM!

1. What's in your fridge?

It depends on what day I look in the fridge. It vacillates from stuffed to empty. Something I always try to have on hand though is a good variety of condiments, including some West Indian hot sauces and a selection of mustards, honey, hot, seedy. Sometimes, I will mix several different kinds of mustard on one sandwich.

2. What was the best day of your life?

The best day of my life would have to be the day that my daughter was born. I tell her all the time that my favourite thing to do is anything that we can do together. Last year we went to wonderland and it was the first year that she was tall enough to make the cut for the big rides. We went on The Behemoth together and she loved it. Afterwards we shared an ice cream cookie sandwhich that was almost as big as her head. That was a great day too.

3. Who was your celebrity crush when you were young?

My biggest celebrity crush was hands down, no contest, Raquel Welch. I forced myself to sit through some pretty bad movies just to see her sometimes. Case in point, "! Million BC" She's over 60 now and still looks pretty good. Some of my other crushes included Renee Russo, Sharon Stone and Theresa Russel. What can I say, I like the bad girls!

4. What video do you find yourself watching over and over on YouTube?

I loved "United Breaks Guitars" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YGc4zOqozo So do ten million plus other people. Lately, I have watched "Guilty Dog" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8ISzf2pryI a few times. I'm also a big fan of "The Onion News" videos. They're usually very funny, and some like, "The Money Hole" are absolutely hysterical http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JnX-D4kkPOQ Of course, I have a good collection of my own videos available on YouTube as well. Go to www.youtube.com/thatcanadianguyclips

Inside the 10-11 Artist Minds - Part 6

2011-03-28T16:26:00.000-04:00

Leisa Way stars in Rhinestone Cowgirl: A Tribute to Dolly Parton, April 20 at the Rose Theatre Brampton!

1. Who's a regular on your I-POD?

Believe it or not, I don't have an I-Pod!! I still listen to cd's in my car - but at home the itunes on my computer has over 5,000 songs in it -- I listen to music all day long and my hubby and I like to wind down after a long day by listening to our fav jazz singers like Wesla Whitfield, Jane Monheit, Emilie Claire Barlow, Diane Reeves and Nancy LaMott. And a biggie is Peggy Lee - I'm doing a tribute to her next.

My fav CANADIAN artists on my itunes: Emilie Claire Barlow (jazz); Sarah McLaughlin; Reid Jamieson (folk/rock); Carol Welshman (jazz); Johnny Reid (country-rock); Bryan Adams (his acoustic album is fabulous!); Amanda Martinez (amazing latin music); k.d. lang (her new album with Hallelujah is a fav); Louise Pitre (that voice!!)

2. What's in your fridge?
There is always a great variety of cheeses in my fridge - I think it's the one food in life that I couldn't do without. I'd give up chocolate in a heartbeat before I'd give up cheese. For staples? Minced garlic and red chili paste - you can spice up any meal with these two things!

3. Who was your celebrity crush when you were young?
My LIFELONG crush has been the same celebrity from the time I was old enough to have a crush until present day (which drives my husband crazy). When I was 10 I saw the 1976 remake of A Star is Born with Kris Kristofferson and Barbra Streisand, and I have been 'in love' with Kristofferson ever since! I had always loved his music - he is such a poet and was a real protest singer, having been in the Vietnam war. He is a Rhodes Scholar and his use of language "he's a walking contradiction, partly truth, and partly fiction" spoke to me from a very young age. My husband jokes that even at the age of 74, if Kris Kristofferson walked into the room, I would forget my hubby's name and existence. I don't deny it :)

4. What video do you find yourself watching over and over again on YouTube?

My 13 year old nephew came to see our concert last year and said to me, "I can't believe you sing Jack White's song!!". Of course he was referring to Dolly Parton's song, JOLENE, which he'd never heard before and now Jack White has made it a hit for a whole new generation. A great version of an old classic!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_YxGsX9bRfY

Summer Season - Read Through of 39 Steps

2011-03-07T16:44:00.000-05:00

by Gabriella Currie

Director Rob Woodcock, Sweeney & Erin

This week I sat in at a first reading of the play, The 39 Steps. First impressions are very important. I wish you could have been there. You couldn’t help but be affected by the palpable excitement in the room. The actors straggle in – coffees in hand (gotta have that life-giving-first-of-the-day coffee) laughing and chatting, exchanging news and light stories.

Then director Rob Woodcock gets things going. Brief introductions and the reading begins.

Wait – before we continue…..what the heck is…. um…. are, The 39 Steps? (take notes, there’ll be a quiz).

1. A book written by John Buchan in 1915?
2. A 1939 Radio play with Orson Welles?
3. A 1943 Radio play with Glenn Ford?
4. A 1992 BBC radio adaptation?
5. A 1935 black and white film adaptation directed by Alfred Hitchcock?
6. A 1959 colour film starring Kenneth More?
7. A 1978 film starring Robert Powell?
8. A comic theatrical adaptation (British farce) by Patrick Barlow which opened in London in 2006?
9. A 2008 book of interactive fiction adapted by Penguin Books called The 21 Steps?
10. 39 stairs at Broadstairs running from the garden to the beach?

Yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes and yes - all of the above.

We’re here for the reading of the play, The 39 Steps, adapted by Patrick Barlow into a British Farce, which will be presented at the Rose Studio Theatre in July. Of course, the provenance of all these versions is the book written by John Buchan first published in 1915.

Who is, I’m sorry, was… John Buchan? (He died in 1940 when he fell and his is head in Rideau Hall.)

This is where I digress a little.

John Buchan was a Scottish novelist and British politician who was appointed as Governor General of Canada in 1935. He loved titles and honours:

• His Excellency the Right Honourable Sir John Buchan, Baron Tweedsmuir of Elsfield, Companion of the Order of Companions of Honour, Knight Grand Cross of the Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George, Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order, Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of the Militia and Naval and Air Forces of Canada,

Mark (Llewellyn) starts the read and the words come alive. Then Scott (Carmichael) then Sweeney (MacArther) – back and forth and around the table – so many accents - fast, witty, funny.

I’m starting to wonder how the stage will be set……trying to translate these words into action – so far just in my head.

How will it look when the creative hands – and minds - work their magic? We’re laughing now – you’ll laugh later, I know. I’m reminded how funny British Farce is… how much I love it.

Sweeney again – another accent and another hilarious voice. It reminds me of Bluebottle from The Goon Show – that wonderful British radio comedy programme which ran from 1951 to 1960.

I’m enjoying myself and suddenly the last word is spoken……

…….till next time.

Inside the 10-11 Artist Minds -Part 5

2011-02-25T12:20:00.000-05:00

Aion Clarke gets ready to share his soulful voice at the Rose Theatre on March 3.

1. Who’s a regular on your I-Pod?
Regulars on my iPod include Kings Of Leon, Kanye West, Coldplay, Marvin Gaye and Rick Ross.. I know it’s a strange combination but I love all great music in any genre.

2. What’s in your fridge?
Leftovers from last night dinner so, rice and black-eyed peas, bbq ribs, and stew chicken. YEAH *smiley face*

3. What was the best day of your life?
This past weekend I sang the National Anthem at the NBA All Star Saturday Night at the Staple Centre in LA!! I’m a huge basketball lover so that was a big deal. I will say that I know better days are already on my schedule *wink*

Aaliyah

4. Who was your celebrity crush when you were young?
I had so many, but for sure my number one was Aaliyah Dana Haughton God rest her soul. I can speak for a lot of guys my age and say one of my goals was to marry her when I got older. She will always be loved and missed.

5. What video do you find yourself watching over and over on YouTube?
I find this collage of interviews by Will Smith very real and inspiring. I watch this one a whole lot!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pSK_Likqv24

Gino Vannelli - The Same Only Different

2011-02-18T12:44:00.000-05:00

An interview by Richard Ouzounian - printed in Odeum Magazine, March 2011

“It’s going to be the same, only different.”

Those are the words Gino Vannelli uses to describe his March 11 concert at The Rose Theatre and they should come as a relief to his long-time fans, but also as a welcome bit of excitement to concert-goers who might not yet have sampled the Vannelli magic, but are always eager to try something new.

The 58 year-old, Montreal-born artist has been a major player on the pop music scene for 38 years, but he’s not content to simply rest on his laurels and show up singing the tunes like “I Just Wanna Stop” and “Wheels of Life” that made him famous decades ago.

“Look, I’ll level with you,” Vannelli says on the phone from his studio in between recording sessions, “I know that recording artists have to live or die on the hits that put them where they are now. And over the years, when I’d get tired of singing certain songs, people would give me hell for it.

“So what was I going to do? I had to be true to myself, but I didn’t want to disappoint my fans.”

And Vannelli came up with a novel solution that seems designed to make everyone happy.

“I sat back and took stock of everything I’d done over the years and asked myself how I would sing these songs now if I were recording them for the first time.”

In some cases, that meant Vannelli was going way back into the 1970s and that created a whole new technological playing field for him.

“Every time I’d hear a recording of mine from the early days, I’d think ‘Damn, we could make it sound so much better if we recorded it today!’ and I don’t mean just cleaning up the tracks or sweetening the accompaniment.

“No, I’m talking about using the recording technology of 2011 from the very start. Making a whole new record, a whole new sound.”

And once Vannelli opened up that door, he found that he wanted to reinvestigate the very songs themselves.

“I sat down at the piano and man, I tore those songs apart. The melody, the chords, even some of the lyrics. I revaluated the textures of the numbers, looked at the particular mind-set that had created them, everything.”

The end result, The Best and Beyond, was released last October to positive response and Vannelli has been pleased the way it’s been working out on many levels.

“It’s really working for everybody,” he enthuses. “The people who hear the songs are glad to be hearing them again, but with something new added. My musicians are excited because they’re all part of a sound that they helped create. Let’s be honest; you can’t get a great band to just imitate the riffs of 35 years ago and I don’t want to tour with anything less than a great band.

“But most importantly, I’m feeling more fulfilled as well. When I was asked to write some new liner notes, I found myself opening up and tapping into feelings I had either never known or never acknowledged. I wound up writing a whole biographical riff called Stardust in the Sand that tells a lot about me.”

Vannelli tries to explain the whole process of change that occurred in his music by looking at one of his biggest hits, “The Wheels of Life”.

“You know, I first started writing that song when I was 18 years old. Man, I blush at that now. I didn’t know what life was back then, or what kind of wheels I was going to start turning around in. But I learned pretty soon.

“And when I recorded the version that everyone knows, I was 26.

When Vannelli sat down with the song a few years ago to re-examine it, “I tried it as a folk number, an R&B tune, everything. Then I just asked myself ‘What is this about, Gino?’ And I got the answer. It’s about the fleetingness of everything in life, the sensation of things running away.”

There seems to be a bit of sadness in Vannelli as he speaks, but he explains it.

“Yeah, I’m a romantic and there’s a pain to romanticism, but there’s a welcome pain because it stirs your soul.

“It helps you feel things and without feelings, believe me, life means nothing.”

Inside the 10-11 Artist Minds -Part 4

2011-02-17T11:57:00.000-05:00

Urban Jazz Songstress Kellylee Evans

1. Who’s a regular on your I-Pod?
An artist out of France named Ben L'oncle Soul. His voice is a cross between John Legend and Cee-Lo over class Motown sounds. All sung in French. When I first started listening to him, I had no idea what he was saying. But I kept working on it and listening and translating his lyrics. He's amazing. And the live show is wonderful. One of the best I have seen ever.

2. What’s in your fridge?
Berries. My kids are berry fiends. I could spend hours making an intricate meal, and my youngest two will still take one look at the meal and ask for berries. We buy the big containers from Costco and they can finish those in one sitting. We should just start growing our own berries at home, hydroponically, but I'm afraid the high hydro bill would have the police convinced we were growing something else.

Kellylee Evans Online:
www.KellyleeEvans.com
www.myspace.com/KellyleeEvans
www.Twitter.com/KellyleeEvans

Inside the 10-11 Artist Minds -Part 3

2011-02-03T10:07:00.000-05:00

Marisa McIntyre of
I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change

1. Who's a regular on your I-Pod?

I'd like to say Mozart or something equally intelligent....but I have to admit I am a sucker for pop. I listen to Leona Lewis a lot these days...which probably makes me pretty predictable. I am a huge fan of the 80's...play Tiffany's "I think we are alone now" and I will do all the choreography PLUS hair flips. I like listening to quirky English songstresses like Kate Nash - as I often wish I could get away with an accent like that. Not that the Canuck accent isn't the COOLEST. Always some Michael Jackson because it don't matter if you're black or white....and maybe, MAYBE, if we were really close friends, I'd admit to some old school backstreet boys ...but only cause- "That makes you larger than life"- cue super cheesy dance moves and smouldering eyes.

2. What would we find in your fridge?

My fridge is a lonely lonely place. The green apples hardly talk to the salsa.... the diet coke steals all the spotlight...the hummus hogs the second shelf....and the lettuce is never invited to the party in time to look good. Visit my Pantry....and that's a different story all together. Woo Hoo!

3. What YouTube video do you find yourself watching over and over again?

I am a true canine lover....signed sealed delivered or your money back. Cats creep me out. Too independent. Too wily. That's probably cause my first...second and third experience with the species consisted of a fat...sly, evil cat, who perched on the top of my best friends couch and POUNCED claws drawn on any passer by. You don't want to KNOW what happened to those who had the misfortune of SITTING on said couch. Did I mention he had markings on his face that made him look like he might eat you? That said- This video, is my FAVOURITE. It is hilarious. And maybe because I think it accurately describes MOST cats. I will allow there are some exceptions to this rule. Probably my director's cats....but I'm saying that mostly because I want to work here again. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0ffwDYo00Q

Inside the 10-11 Artist Minds -Part 2

2011-01-31T16:49:00.000-05:00

Sweeney MacArthur of
I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change

1. What YouTube Video could you watch again and again?
I am addicted to watching the many videos of "Big Cat Rescue". They're an organization that rescue cats from the circus and small badly operated zoo's etc. Here is one of my favourites showing how they celebrate Halloween:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UcT4paZfflg

2. Did you have a celebrity crush when you were young?
Growing up we only had 3 TV stations. The BBC would go off at around 11pm and then they would put up a test pattern. I've included the picture(right) of the girl. Well, from the age of 2 I think I wanted to marry her...or the clown....well now I'm just confused!

3. What happened on the best day of your life?
Well at the risk of making people throw up I'd have to say my wedding day, but I believe that will change in April with the birth of my first child. I know, sickeningly sweet...I'm getting a cavity just
writing this!

Inside the 10-11 Artist Minds -Part 1

2011-01-25T12:23:00.000-05:00

Denise Fennell of
Late Nite Catechism

1. Who’s a regular on your I- Pod?

Hmmm… wow, my I-Pod is so silly! It has everything from show tunes to Snoop Dog …. I love him! It has lots of 80's - oh, and Barry Manilow; I love him too : )

2. Who was your first celebrity crush?

Hmmm... hands down it would be Little Orphan Annie. LOL. Not quite sure if it was a crush, but maybe more of an obsession. I spent my teen years watching the movie Annie wishing and dreaming that instead of Andrea McArdle it was me dancing up Daddy Warbuck's stairs in my red dress and a little pair of black Mary Jane's. Oh and let’s not forget the Annie dress I made my mom sew for me because I was a rather large child and did not fit in the Annie Costumes they sold. Not to mention, I'm Italian and very hairy and was not allowed to shave until the age of 14! So there I was - a little round, hairy legged Annie in my red dress and my orange clown wig and unibrow. Oh no, it gets worse! It was the year they were having the open call for Annie's too! Of course I went; I was delusional. I thought I actually could be Annie : ) Did I mention that I cannot sing a lick? Needless to say, the sun did not come out that day : ) My god, did I really just tell you that I had a crush on Annie (still lol..)? You know I met Andrea Mcardle one day in NYC. I was performing as Tina in the off- Broadway show Tony n Tina's Wedding and she was performing as Belle in Beauty and the Beast. I guess word traveled to her that she was my idol because one day I was all dressed up in my pretty wedding dress and she paid me a visit. She said, "Hi Tina," and I said "Leaping Lizards you’re Annie!" God, that was a great moment.

3. What video do you find yourself watching over and over on YouTube?

The Farting Preacher. I worked at the Culture Club in New York City for years. It was this really fun 80's theme dance club and the manager ,my friend Najib, and I would watch this video and laugh so hard ... It was sooo silly and foolish but it would make us laugh, really laugh, like tears of laughter. Such fun memories. Hi Najib : )

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D-NEo84Mzhs&feature=related

Feb 11 - Manager's Monthly

2011-01-14T14:50:00.000-05:00

Steve Solski

The International Indian Film Academy Awards & The Rose

The prestigious and globally recognized International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards are set to make their North American debut on June 23-25, 2011. The Indian film industry is the largest on the planet and for the past 11 years, the IIFA celebrations have spread the magic and glamour of Indian cinema to a number of powerful worldly destinations, including London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Bangkok, the Venetian Macao, Johannesburg and Sun City. Now in their twelfth international year of awarding and promoting Indian cinema, fashion and culture, the IIFA has chosen Toronto as their 2011 destination.

Toronto is famed for its cosmopolitanism, its passion for the arts, and its mosaic approach to embracing literally hundreds of diverse ethnicities; making it an obvious and exciting host to act as a bridge between Indian and world cultures. Recognizing, however, the strength of the South Asian population to the north-west of their city, Toronto has honored the Rose Theatre and the City of Brampton (along with Mississauga and Markham) with an invite to co-host the pre-awards festivities and world-wide telecast of events.

The Rose and the City are largely active in the IIFA Buzz Fest; hosting events from June 13-21 leading up to the three-day awards extravaganza in downtown Toronto. Our aim is to create a vibrant, inspiring, and anticipation building celebration of South Asian music, cinema, food and culture.

The IIFA Awards are not only a chance for the GTA to celebrate and explore the aesthetics and values of a public geographically distant to our own. They are also a reflection and confirmation of our city’s, our province’s, and our country’s growing ties with the incredible Republic of India. Geographically we are far; in company we are ever closer. Having already garnered the attention, support and enthusiasm of the Premier of Ontario as well as the municipal, cultural, and economic powerhouses of the GTA, I can already assure you this event will be of great significance to our local and global identity.

I couldn’t be more excited to welcome the celebrated industry of Indian cinema to Toronto and onwards to Brampton. I hope you will join me in representing our city as a destination worthy of their motto: “One People. One World.”

Steve Solski is the Manager of Arts Culture & Theatres for the City of Brampton

A Quick Note From Honeymoon Suite...

2010-11-15T16:32:00.000-05:00

Thomas Weller ©Honeymoon Suite.

"Honeymoon Suite has had a great year touring all across Canada and the U.S.A. It’s been a lot of fun and with 2010 coming to a close and only having 2 Ontario dates remaining, we always enjoy playing in our backyard. To all those that could not make it out to our last performance at Toronto’s Air Canada Centre we look forward to seeing you at Brampton’s Rose Theatre. We love playing venues like the Rose theatre, it gives us the opportunity to be more intimate with the Fans."

Photo: Hockey Hall of Fame Ceremony at the ACC

~~~~~~~~~~~~
See Honeymoon Suite live in concert at the Rose Theatre Brampton on November 19 at 8PM.
Don't forget your memorabilia! Honeymoon Suite will be signing autographs and taking photos in the lobby after the performance.

Adi Braun reviewed in WholeNote Magazine

2010-11-11T16:47:00.000-05:00

Check out what WholeNote Magazine had to say about Adi Braun's latest release Canadian Scenes I.

~~~~

Canadian Scenes 1 - Adi Braun

Independent (http://www.adibraun.com/)

Written By Bill McLean

“This recording is a dream-come-true,” says award-winning jazz vocalist Adi Braun of her recently released a five-song EP, “Canadian Scenes I.” On it Braun has stretched her already impressive talents to include songwriting with three originals tunes.

In My Heart I Know begins with a softly plucked acoustic guitar, and is soon joined by an evocative arco bass, to set up this beautifully romantic ballad. Ocean Eyes is an excellent example of Braun’s “cabarazz” style, a mixture of cabaret and jazz. Her sultry vocals caress the lyrics, swooping and soaring over the pulsing beat of Kevin Barrett’s guitar and the piano of Jordan Klapman. Grace “walks with a steady pace/Through the summer heat,” a loving ode to “the place where she and I belong.” It is good to hear that Braun has taken Shirley Eikhard’s encouragement to “put my songwriting foot forward.” These three tunes are hopefully harbingers of many more originals to come.

Braun is also noted for her determination to bring Canadian songwriters to her audiences’ attention, and she does so exquisitely with Tony Quarrington’s collaboration with Jordan Klapman, Rain on the Roof. Songwriter Julian Taylor joins Braun on his composition It’s Not Enough, a pop ballad reminiscent of the many duos of 90s rock. Other contributing artists on “Canadian Scenes I” include bassist George Koller and Glenn Anderson on drums. The EP is available through Braun’s website.

http://www.thewholenote.com/

~~~~

See Adi Braun live in concert in the all new Rose Theatre Studio Jazz Series on November 26, 2010.
Tickets: $25. To order, call the Rose Theatre Box Office at 905-874-2800 or buy online at http://www.rosetheatre.ca/

No. 3 - Costin's Theatre Excursions - Sleuth

2010-11-02T12:01:00.000-04:00

Be afraid, be very afraid!

As Halloween approached, I thought of the people’s fascination with crime, death and suspense and crime and other ghoulish things and it brought to mind the comedy-thriller Sleuth by Anthony Schaffer that was presented by Theatre Collingwood this summer and how much I enjoy that play and why I am a still a fan of comedy thrillers and mystery plays. To the other end of the spectrum one will find Shear Madness, another play I saw this past summer at Stage West Theatre Restaurant, a mystery comedy that started life as a serious psychodrama and became an interactive comedy whodunit. The show evolved, in the presence of an audience, into a raucous comedy that let the audience into the act.

Both succeed because, at one point or another in our lives, we have all had a fascination with puzzles, games and riddles and may have even been addicted to playing and pretending. Of course, we also wanted very badly to win, and at times even win at any cost.

Well, in this delightful puzzle of a comedy-thriller, these strong desires and addictions that are deeply buried in all of us, explode to the surface in a surprising, fascinating, entertaining and really suspenseful manner.

There is a common notion that a comedy-thriller is usually set in a stately country manor where, first, a murder takes place and then it's followed by the prerequisite plot twists, cover-ups, likely and unlikely suspects, maybe even more murders and more plausible or implausible plot twists. Well… that is exactly what happens in Sleuth, but with quite a few original and really unexpected twists! It is also important to add that the reason this genre still lives on and entertains is because it keeps the audiences laughing throughout.

We see then that good comedy-thrillers have an almost interactive characteristic about them that is fun, highly amusing and unpredictable, wherein, for example, a moment of terror is immediately relieved by a moment of true hilarity. What attracts some patrons to the genre could be the pleasure of being constantly surprised, while others are drawn by the challenge of deducing what will happen next. Most, however, seek the smug satisfaction of being able to say to their “unsuspecting” companion sitting next to them: "Ha! I told you this would happen!”

It is a given that characters in whodunits are never what they seem and that their secrets and veiled identities envelop the plot with the obligatory shroud of mystery and help pepper it with red herrings. Sleuth still feels like a fresh comedy-thriller not only because the lead characters are two very clever men, but maybe because in the audience, even the sharpest “sleuth” or the most cynical of patrons may find it full of surprises.
Research shows that there are two categories of game players: those who just love to play and those who need to win at all costs. Well, there is no need to guess which category we are most fascinated with, is there? If you are one of those players who are always used to winning and can’t even fathom defeat, well then, be on your guard, watch and learn a lesson, and … be afraid, be very afraid!

No.2 - Costin's Theatre Excursions -Evita

2010-10-26T14:56:00.000-04:00

Hi, I'm Costin Manu, the Programming Manager for the Rose Theatre Brampton. As I mentioned last week, I will be contributing an entry here each Monday discussing all things “show-business”. My goal is to offer a glimpse into what I have been seeing and doing in this “business” and tell you what I was impressed with and talk about things of note in live performance that might also be interesting to you, our patrons.

Last Saturday, I finally managed to see the much-lauded production of the Andrew Lloyd Webber/Tim Rice musical “Evita” at the Stratford Festival of Canada, a production so successful for them that it was extended by popular demand with five additional performances through November 6. The story of Eva Duarte, who rises from poverty in rural Argentina to become first the mistress and then the wildly popular wife of President Juan Perón, first started as a rock opera concept album released in 1976 that led to productions in London's West End in 1978, and on Broadway a year later. Blending the personal with the political, this landmark of the modern musical theatre paints a dazzling portrait of a woman who helped shape history. Exuberant Latin, rock and jazz rhythms pulse through the score of a show that took the world by storm, winning Tony, Drama Desk and Olivier Awards for best musical.

Colm Wilkinson of the Les Miz fame played Che on the original studio recording and Mandy Patinkin was the first Che on Broadway. In the Stratford production it was Josh Young and we witnessed a star in the making in a man who has had so many musical theatre credits at an early age and will go far. I was looking forward to seeing many of my friends and colleagues on stage in the show and especially Chilina Kennedy, who I first saw when she was a student at Sheridan College and then as Anne in the musical Anne Of Green Gables at the Charlottetown Festival. Alas, she was indisposed and I saw her understudy Lindsay Croxhall, who did a terrific job in the show and that gave an idea for one of my upcoming Odeum articles regarding understudies.

An amazing performance in front of a sold-out audience is what I witnessed and the quality was top notch as noted by many international theatre critics who review Stratford. Musicals are the type of entertainment we also continue to bring to the Rose in the near future, so please look for the announcement of our 2011 Summer Theatre Season to see what I mean. See you again soon at the theatre!

No.1 - Costin's Theatre Excursions - Skin Flick

2010-10-18T15:59:00.000-04:00

Hi, I'm Costin Manu, the Programming Manager for the Rose Theatre Brampton. Starting today, I will be contributing an entry here each Monday discussing all things “show-business”. My goal is to offer a glimpse into what I have been seeing and doing in this “business” and tell you what I was impressed with and talk about things of note in live performance that might also be interesting to you, our patrons.

I get to see a lot of performances every week, taking in many different genres. Last Friday I attended the premiere of another Norm Foster comedy gem, the “naughty and affectionate comedy” SKIN FLICK at Theatre Orangeville. This was another hit for Canada’s most prolific and most successful playwright and it was also a pleasure to see Norm again actually acting in one of his own plays. I must add that he keeps finding more original subjects and funny ways of relating and moving forward a story and I can tell you that he is a very accomplished actor in his own right with terrific comedic timing. It was also great to see the Artistic Director of Theatre Orangeville, David Nairn, acting in the play as well. He is another accomplished, veteran performer and delivers comedic gems. Jamie Williams, Maria Dinn, and Susan Greenfield round out this terrific cast and they bring on the laughs non-stop.

A great play and a great evening out and the type of entertainment we will also continue to bring to The Rose in the near future. This hilarious comedy runs until October 31.

Costin with Norm Foster (left) at Skin Flick opening night party.

Engelbert's Fans Decorate Dressing Room

2010-10-12T17:04:00.000-04:00

Members of Engelbert's fan club decorated his dressing room with chocolates, wine and homemade gifts at the Rose Theatre this morning in preparation for tonight's concert. President Betty Mayer has been doing this at venues all over Canada and the States for 30 years.

Fan Club Members L to R - Lori Phillips, Loise Goos, Janice Mielcarek & Betty Mayer

SPAMALOT Fun Facts!

2010-10-12T13:49:00.000-04:00

Fun, interesting and maybe a little random... check out these tidbits about Monty Python's SPAMALOT coming to the Rose Theatre for 3 performance on October 29 & 30.

Spamalot uses 40 wireless microphones, consumes over 2500 AAA batteries per month, runs over 1 mile of cable and uses custom built lasers to aim the speakers in each house.
Among the props is a cow that weighs 45 pounds which requires two stagehands to catapult it over the castle.
Spamalot uses approximately 40 coconuts per month, supplied by the Coconut King in Florida.
The Show Portal weighs 2800 pounds.
The heaviest piece of scenery, The Camelot Hanger, weighs in at 6000 pounds.
The “Feet of God” is the heaviest piece manually flown in, weighing 1700 pounds.
The set utilizes 35 line sets, 30 chain motors, and over 13,000 pounds of stage weight.
The Grail Lift that elevates the Lady of the Lake weighs over 4000 pounds and uses 2600 pounds of hydraulic pressure.
The show hires 50 local crew members to load the show in and out, and 25 local crew members to run the show.
It takes over 80 people on stage and off to run each performance.
The Electrics Department uses 6 tanks of liquid carbon dioxide per week to create the low-ground fog effect and uses 8 fire extinguishers per week for the Feet of God “blast off” effect.
6 pounds of confetti are used at each performance.
The orchestra uses a Spama-horn, an instrument specially developed for and used only in Spamalot.
There are over 100 wigs (including facial hair) in the show, all hand-tied and made of human hair, yak hair, and synthetics supplied from New York, California, and London.
The mud make-up is a formula specially designed for Spamalot.
The poorest peasants’ costumes in the show are actually made of raw silk.
3 feet of “blood” has to be ironed prior to each performance.
There are over 100 undergarments in the show, including 30 pairs of men’s fishnets and 56 cod pieces.
The Lady of the Lake’s costumes are all comprised of hand-strung glass beads.
The costumes are not only made of a wide variety of fabrics, but many are made of molded ABS plastics, and even nuts and bolts. You are as likely to see a costumer with power tools as you are a sewing machine.

A word with Engelbert Humperdinck

2010-09-09T09:59:00.000-04:00

By Harry Currie (from an interview in September 2010)

Apart from listening to Elvis and Nat King Cole, Enge listened to Sinatra.

“As a matter of fact,” he said, “the guy who used to be Sinatra’s manager is now my manager. It’s fate, you know, life takes you in different circles, and life takes you in a pattern that’s supposed to happen. And if it doesn’t happen I think it’s your fault, if you don’t take advantage of the opportunities.”

Enge never had a vocal coach or teacher telling him how to use his diaphragm and vocal mechanism.

“Absolutely not,” he said. “It all came naturally. I think I learned the breathing technique from being a musician before I was a singer. When I started I learned how to ply the saxophone, and that teaches you how to use your diaphragm. I think I used that technique for my singing, and I never took a lesson in my life.”

Enge’s voice has changed somewhat over the years.

“I think what has happened is that it’s become more commercial, in the fact that you learn a lot as you go through life, and again you pick up from what is happening in today’s world, and you absorb that into your own world. That’s what’s happening in my present life – my voice hasn’t changed so much, it’s as strong as it always was, and I can hit notes a bank couldn’t cash,” he laughed.

Has the range changed at all?

“Not a great deal – maybe a tone, you know. I keep it comfortable instead of straining for it. I work so much that instead of straining you just drop it down a tone, maybe, but you’ll find my voice is as powerful as ever – it’s really quite unbelievable. Usually when you get older your vibrato gets slower, but mine doesn’t, which is a blessing in disguise, I’ll tell you that.”

Enge has recently recorded for the first time “Over the Rainbow” and “My Way.”

“They’re on my Legacy of Love album,” he said.

When I mentioned that living in Thailand as I am it’s difficult to get western CD’s.

“Oh,” he laughed, “just go to iTunes and download them. You know what I did? I went to Prague and rerecorded a lot of my bigger hits. I put 26 tracks down over there, and then I thought why don’t I put a couple of classics on there, like Over the Rainbow and My Way, and one or two others, and it turned out to be a fantastic thing. And I released another album called A Taste of Country, and now (Enge got excited!) I’ve done an album with a producer from Australia, who’s moving to California in a few months, and I’m releasing an album on Universal with a single from a writer called Steve McEwen. I’m really looking forward to that.”

And so are we, Enge!

The Odd Couple - Rehearsals

2010-08-09T11:54:00.000-04:00

I dropped by a rehearsal for The Odd Couple and snapped a few shots of the cast and director in preparation. Although they're just getting started, the show is already a hoot and I had a few good laughs while I was there. I predict this will be a brililant production with a wonderful cast.

Below are the core cast including from left to right: Rob Torr, Laura Caswell, Julia Guthrie, Rob Woodcock and facing the group is Director, Kathryn Delory.

Music at the Market

2010-08-04T21:32:00.000-04:00

Those doing their shopping at Brampton's downtown market last Saturday were pleasantly surprised to be serenaded by Centre Stage finalists from the Lorna Bissell Fountain Stage in front of the Rose Theatre.

Centre Stage is a talent competition for high school students in Brampton held each year by the Rose Theatre.

Broadway Gold II Talk Back

2010-07-30T15:49:00.000-04:00

Last night after the performance, Danny Harvey (director) and the cast of Broadway Gold II stuck around to answer questions and chat with some audience members. Gabriella Currie moderated.

Myron De Souza (Musical Director) and Ayrin Mackie (vocalist)

The War Show - Read Through with Cast

2010-07-13T14:45:00.000-04:00

I attended the first read through for Rose Summer Season's The War Show, You'll Get Used To It yesterday afternoon. It's a wonderful show with a lot of laughs and admittedly I dropped a tear or two as well. Below are a few candid shots.

Nancy Silverman and Sweeney MacArthur. It was tough catching Sweeney in a moment where he didn't have the whole cast in stitches!

Kraig Waye is Sharkey - you may remember him from last summer season in Songs for a New World.

Above - Director Danny Harvey and Assistant Stage Manager Jake Maric.

Below - Jay Davis hamming it up. Jay plays the role of Dusty.

Fun Opportunity for Local Musicians

2010-06-03T12:56:00.000-04:00

Here is a great opporutnity to raise some money for a good cause (The William Osler Health Centre Foundation) while having a ton of fun.... On June 17 during the Classic Cars Event in Gage Park, BDDC is hosting a Beatles Rockband Contest!

By the way, if you love the Beatles, I think you'll also be interested in this show coming up at the Rose Theatre in the 10-11 season (Nov. 26 & 27) 1964 The Tribute has been called "The Best Beatles Tribute on Earth" --Rolling Stone Magazine

Rose Theatre Patio is Open!

2010-06-03T12:45:00.000-04:00

Summer is practically here, we've had so many beautiful days already and now it's official... the Rose Theatre Patio in the Garden Square is finally open!

Lots of us have already been hosting our meetings out there, enjoying lunch and soon there will also be a slew of excellent free entertainment - Movies on the big screen, Tuesday and Saturdays, Friday night concerts with Dean McTaggert, and Thursday afternoon's with the Brampton folk club. Visit http://www.rosetheatre.ca/ for the full listing of these events.

More Centre Stage

2010-04-26T17:28:00.000-04:00

It's just around the corner now. Wednesday night at 7 pm is the big day for our incredible Brampton talent to shine on the Rose Stage. As they ramp up, here are a few thoughts from two more of our finalists.

Rhiannon Deline

What is your first performance memory?

I was 7 years old when I had my first solo at school.
I performed "Part of your world" From the Little Mermaid.
I was terrified! But it was the first time I realized..this is what I wanna do.

Who is your biggest inspiration/idol and why?
John Lennon. He is a great inspiration. Not just because of his brilliant music, but because of the person he was. He was not afraid of standing up for what he believed in, and gave millions of people a sense of hope and boosted their pride and confidence.

What are you doing after the show?
It's back to work for me! Writing, rehearsing, and teaching!

Nayani Rajamohan

Do you sing in the shower?
I've been known to sing, dance and fantasize fairytales in the shower. I take after my parents who both sing at the top of their lungs.

What are your long-term goals with regards to performing arts?
My career plans including dancing and performing as well as many other things. Because I am currently a student-teacher and perform at various locations, I would like to start my own academy and join/create a performing group.

How does it feel to be chosen to perform on the Rose stage?
Pretty awesome!

Behind the Scenes With Centre Stage Finalists!

2010-04-23T16:59:00.000-04:00

We asked some of our finalists to help us get to know them better. Here's what they said...

Nicole Ramos

What is your first performance memory?

My school talent show in 2007. I was in grade 3 and sang "part of your world" from the little mermaid, I was wearing white pants and a white shirt decorated with paper fishes my sister made.

Do you get stage fright?
I don't get nervous when I perform. I'm always excited.

What are your long term goals with regards to performing?
I have always wanted to become a singer and someday I will join Canadian Idol.

How does it feel to be chosen to perform on the Rose stage?
It's an honor to be chosen out of so many people. I always hear many great things about the Rose Theater and I am really excited that I will finally get to sing there.

Jurrene Liburd

Do you sing in the shower?
Yes, all the time.

What song/band is in constant rotation on your IPod right now?
Uhm, The truth by India Irea

Who is your biggest inspiration/idol and why?
My Biggest inspiration is my mother, she has been dancing for over 13 years and I'm amazed by her talent, and how dedicated she is, how much she practices. Not only by that but he character, she is a strong-willed determined woman who is very intelligent and successful, I hope to be like her someday.

Erica DaCuhna

Who is your biggest inspiration/idol and why?
My inspirations are all the kids that I have seen ill over the years at Sick Kids Hospital. They are so sick yet they can still smile, laugh and be the most positive people out there.

How does it feel to be chosen to perform on the Rose stage?
It feels amazing, exciting, a weeeeeeee bit nerve wracking, but overall I feel ready for some fun!
What's next for you?
After the show I am auditioning for the tv show, The Next Star and a talent competition called Rising Star. I will also be in the Brampton Theatre Schools production of Beauty and The Beast, which will be showing at Lester.B. Pearson Theater on June 24th to the 26th.

Sabrina Gomes

What is your first performance memory?
First performance was at a talent show at St. Isaac Jogues Catholic School.

How does it feel to be chosen to perform on the Rose stage?
It feels like the beginning of an opportunity to move forward with my goals.

Who is your biggest inspiration/idol and why?
Taylor Swift. It's amazing to see such a young lady achieve so much.

What are you doing after the show?
Signing Autographs!!!!!!!!!!!!!.............Ha! Ha! Ha!!!!!! LOL

Want to see more of Brampton's brightest and best young talent? Don't miss the Centre Stage performance on Friday, April 28 at 7:00 pm. Tickets are only $10 and avaialble at the Rose Theatre Box Office. See you there!

Art of Time Ensemble with Steven Page was brilliant!

2010-03-11T20:10:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone,

Were you at this concert last night? I sincerely hope you were because I have to say... and I hope this isn't unfair of me because we do bring a lot of really fantastic entertainment to the Rose... but this was far and away my favourite concert this year! WOW, the Art of Time Ensemble are doing something really great. The arrangments are beyond fresh. I particularly loved the moment in "A singer must die" when the instruments break into on all these crazy crunchy chords and I felt my insides spinning with excitement.... in a word - thrilling. Not only are the arrangments awesome but overall I thought Steven Page's song selection was inspired. Quirky, fascinating, and fantastic! If you missed it at the Rose, they are still touring and I have to highly recommend that you go find them somewhere, anywhere. If you were there too please send me your thoughts, I do hope you loved it as much as I did. Here I am with Andrew Burashko (Artistic Director of Art of Time Ensemble) and Steven Page after the show.

Wow, what a great night!

Hope to see you at the Rose soon. The touring Broadway production of The Wedding Singer is this weekend... sure to be a hoot! Oh and ladies, or guys if you're feeling particularly brave lol, be sure to come wearing your worst bridesmaid dress! Prizes to be had... and who doesn't love to win prizes!

Talk soon,
Genny

Black Pack S.E.L.L.O.U.T.

2010-03-01T16:37:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone,

This is a few days delayed in getting up but I wanted to share some photos with you from the Black Pack S.E.L.L.O.U.T. Comedy Tour post-show event at Jake's Boathouse last week. What a funny bunch of guys. I mean, I know, they're all comedians so what else did you expect right?

But what I loved, even more than their on stage humour was how intriguingly individual they each are in their style and essence. Does it get any different than this? Check out what they each ordered at the party... Billy D. Washington... a glass of pinot. Vince ... grey goose on the rocks. Louis Johnson... rum & coke... and my personal favourite, B.T...a strawberry margherita! Come on, can you guess which one is B.T. below??

Well I'm sorry if you missed it - it was a night worth dragging yourself off the couch for! If you want to see more of these guys, they've got some great videos available on their myspace page at http://www.myspace.com/blackpack. Enjoy ;)

See you soon at the Rose!
Genny

The Wedding Singer National US Tour at the Rose Theatre Brampton

2010-02-22T17:37:00.000-05:00

A Theatre Preview by Mark Andrew Lawrence

Originally published in ODEUM, A Magazine of the Rose Theatre Brampton

“Oh, When it’s your wedding day

And My Music starts to play

I can Guarantee that love will find you…”

That lyric comes from the opening number for The Wedding Singer, a musical comedy inspired by the movie of the same name starring Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore.

The story tells of Robbie Hart, who makes a living serenading brides and grooms at their wedding receptions. When he himself gets left at the altar, he becomes morose and cynical about relationships not realizing that he has already met his soul mate.

The romantic comedy was released on Valentines Day 1998 and went on to gross $123 million.

It’s always a tricky proposition to take a hit movie, add songs to it and put it on stage. Broadway producers are always looking to lure new audiences by offering familiar titles; some of these shows have been enormously successful. The Lion King and The Producers are two Tony Award winners that come to mind. Others, however, have been expensive disasters, such as the recent Shrek and Disney’s The Little Mermaid.

The transition of The Wedding Singer from screen to stage took eight years. Chad Beguelin adapted the book from the screenplay and joined forces with Tim Herliy to do the lyrics. The basic storyline remains the same, but a few plot points have been changed in Beguelin’s adaptation, resulting in an even better narrative flow.

In addition, with musicals the songs can help reveal more about what the characters are thinking and feeling. Whereas the movie used a number of 1980’s pop songs to give the proper period feel. Matthew Sklar’s score for the musical is entirely original but includes a number of 80’s styled songs for Robbie’s band. There are also many plot-related solos and duets. The result is a lively, entertaining mélange, which can be heard on the original cast recording available on the Masterworks Broadway label from Sony.

After a successful try-out at Seattle’s famed Fifth Avenue Theatre, The Wedding Singer fast tracked to Broadway where it opened in April of 2006 and was nominated for the Tony Award as Best Musical of the season. After 285 performances the show launched a national tour, which surprisingly did not play any stops in Canada. Now a second tour is on the road and will come to the Rose Theatre for three performances March 12 and 13.

“Yeah, When it’s your wedding day

All the problems melt away

If you count on me ‘cause love is what I do!”

Robert Latimer-Cornell is Barrymore

2010-02-16T12:59:00.000-05:00

By ASHLEY GOODFELLOW

Feb 15, 2010 - 11:03 AM
The life of Barrymore

When stars were stars. Robert Latimer-Cornell plays the role of legendary actor John Barrymore in William Luce’s revered play Barrymore.

“There’s something so theatrical about him and his life ... that no longer exists today. He comes from a time when stars were really stars, not just celebrities,” said Robert Latimer-Cornell on playing legendary actor John Barrymore in the play Barrymore. Robert Latimer-Cornell is not without his charms.

After more than 40 years in the performing arts, his career has highlights in theatre, opera, film, TV and radio— not only in Canada, but across North America and in Europe.

He’s mastered the most difficult accents, and embodied the most remarkable characters. So who better to play the role of legendary actor John Barrymore in William Luce’s revered play Barrymore?

Latimer-Cornell would comically tell you that it’s Christopher Plummer (who first starred in the production, and went on to win a Tony for his performance)— but he’s selling himself short.

After all, his upcoming appearance in the play at the Rose Theatre on Feb. 26 and 27 isn’t the first time he’s portrayed the alcohol-drinking, womanizing Hollywood icon. He’s aced the role before.

“There’s no question, it’s a daunting undertaking,” he said during an interview with The Guardian, “but I’ve done this before, and I’ve had great success with it.”

Loosely based on Barrymore’s life, the play takes place in 1942, just after the Pearl Harbour attack, on a bare stage in New York City. Barrymore is 57, and he’s trying to stage a comeback in theatre, after a long absence due to his drinking and meandering ways.

“When he was in his 40s, he did his first Shakespeare play in New York, Richard III...then he played Hamlet...then he fell apart,” summarizes Latimer-Cornell. “He was eventually labeled one of the bad boys of Hollywood, and he got this reputation, and nobody wanted to touch him.”

So, this play is set is 10 years later and Barrymore is trying to remount a production of Richard III. He’s hired Frank, a young fellow, to prompt him with his lines— and reel Barrymore back in from his distracted episodes of reminiscing with the audience— but even Frank can’t rescue Barrymore from his self-indulgent ways. (Technically this play is billed as a one-man production, as Frank interacts with Barrymore over a loudspeaker.)

Barrymore jokes with the audience, spars with Frank and does imitation of the stars of his day (including sister Ethel and brother Lionel). It’s absolutely hilarious— and a good backgrounder for those who don’t know much about Barrymore’s very interesting life, said Latimer-Cornell.

“There’s something so theatrical about him and his life ... that no longer exists today. He comes from a time when stars were really stars, not just celebrities,” said the actor.

Latimer-Cornell laughed when asked what it’s like to take on such a hefty role— and answered “Somebody said to me that I was born to play this role...but, I, for one, don’t drink at all!” But he doesn’t neglect to note his very loose connection to Barrymore himself— his maternal grandfather’s first cousin was Katharine Cornell, an American stage actress who worked closely with the Barrymores.

Latimer-Cornell is thrilled to bring Barrymore back to the stage, which will play for three performances in Brampton. He hopes to take the play on the road in the future.

Barrymore runs at the Rose Theatre Feb Feb 26 at 8 p.m., and Feb 27 at 2 and 8 p.m. For tickets and information call the box office at 905-874-2800 or visit http://www.rosetheatre.ca/.

Toronto Star - Anti-Hit List - Jan 23, 2010

2010-01-28T12:31:00.000-05:00

10. ART OF TIME ENSEMBLE WITH STEVEN PAGE

"Paranoid Android" Please allow him to reintroduce himself. Prior to releasing a solo album later this year, the former co-frontman of the Barenaked Ladies has teamed with Andrew Burashko's adventurous collective for an album of radically overhauled covers. This piano-and-strings arrangement of the Radiohead track features one of Page's most startling vocal performances and earns an adjective you can't often apply to cover versions: original. (From A Singer Must Die, out Feb. 16, info only: http://www.thestevenpages.blogspot.com/)

Such a unique and amazing mix of jazz, classical and pop music - a really original sound!
See them at the Rose - March 10.

No Wonder It Earned 3 Tony Award Nominations!

2010-01-22T12:55:00.000-05:00

It's not hard to hear why A Year with Frog and Toad was nominated for three Tony Awards! The lyrics are clever, the quality superb, and the entire show is executed with such tremendous flair. Filled with original music, the songs from this Broadway musical are instantly catchy and familiar sounding. This is the perfect show for parents, grandparents and children of all ages. If you click on the link below, it will take you to a sample playlist of songs from the show. Enjoy!

http://www.cduniverse.com/search/xx/music/pid/6683364/a/Year+With+Frog+And+Toad.htm

A Year with Frog and Toad plays at the Rose Theatre Brampton on MARCH 9, 7PM.

Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks - Preview Pictures

2010-01-14T16:52:00.000-05:00

Wow, preview was amazing. The audience loved Constance and Jason and gave them a rousing standing ovation! Log into Facebook to see the Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks photo album here!

Watch Rogers Daytime - Mississauga/Brampton tomorrow morning

2010-01-11T18:47:00.000-05:00

Catch Jason Graae and Constance Towers live on Rogers Daytime tomorrow morning (Tuesday, January 12).

Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks - Brampton Guardian, Jan 8, 2010

2010-01-08T14:11:00.000-05:00

Friday January 8 2010

By ASHLEY GOODFELLOW

BRAMPTON - It’s a comedy first— but Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks will also have you tapping your toes and reflecting on your life.

The Broadway comedy by Richard Alfieri will enlighten local audiences when it appears on the Rose Theatre stage Jan. 13 to 17. Directed by Costin Manu, the Rose Theatre’s own programming manager, and starring Constance Towers and Jason Graae, Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks is as much a lesson in humanity as a lesson in dance.

Read the full article: http://www.thebramptonguardian.com/entertainment/article/84250

steven page back in action

2010-01-07T10:13:00.000-05:00

steven page back in action

Don't miss Steven Page performing in a whole new way with the incredible Art of Time Ensemble.

Interview with Constance Towers - star of Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks

2009-12-15T14:16:00.000-05:00

Shall We Dance?
(originally printed in Odeum December 2009)

Constance Towers performed that show stopping number on Broadway every night for over a year as she taught Yul Brynner the polka in the 1977 revival of The King and I. Now, more than 30 years later, Towers is being taught the polka, tango, waltz and other steps in the play Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks by Richard Alfieri.

Not only is the actress enthusiastic about the play, she also thinks the playwright is “one of the most beautiful looking human beings I’ve ever seen. He’s Flawless! And he’s extremely intellectual and interesting. It’s a perfectly crafted play, and the humor grows out of who these people are. He has had tremendous success with this play all over the world.

“It’s one of those plays that you think about the next day and the day after,” says Ms. Towers. “It’s a wonderful experience for an audience, and for the actors because there is a tremendous amount of tension. It’s poignant and at the same time hilariously funny.”

Towers plays an older southern woman, living in St. Petersburg, Florida. “She’s lonely,” the actress explains “and she decides that rather than going to a dance studio to learn about dance she will hire a dance instructor to come to her home. He is also a very lonely person, disappointed in the course of his life, and he is also wildly eccentric.”

Jason Graae plays the dance instructor, Michael, who has moved to Florida to try to put his life back together. “His views are shocking to her,” says Towers “so it’s a battle of wills between two people who think in totally different ways and then they find this common ground which is what makes the play so special. It will break your heart but also leave you laughing too.”

For many years, Towers was an established Broadway star having won praise for her performance in the 1966 Lincoln Centre revival of Show Boat. She has also made many television appearances in everything from General Hospital to Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. Her love remains with the theatre, and she still admits to being awed when she visits New York. “I still get excited when I walk down Broadway and turn onto 44th Street or 45th street to go see a show. It’s a very special experience.”

The actress is prepared for a winter visit to Brampton. “I was born in Whitefish, Montana so 20 below zero means nothing to me!”

Constance Towers and Jason Graae star in Richard Alfieri’s play Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks at the Rose Theatre for seven performances, January 13 to 17.

Mark Andrew Lawrence presents selections from his library of over 2,000 original cast recordings on Front Row Centre heard Saturday mornings at 8 and Sunday mornings at 9 on 103.9 Proud-Fm (www.proudfm.com.) His very first Broadway show was The King and I starring Yul Brynner and Constance Towers.

Commissioner Jamie Lowery & Theatre Manager Steve Solski rehearse for Scrooge! A Christmas Musical

2009-12-10T14:59:00.000-05:00

Rogers First Local at the Rose today

2009-12-09T14:00:00.001-05:00

Tune in to Rogers's First Local, Mississauga tonight to watch interview's with a couple of the dancer's from Ballet Jorgen's Group of Seven Nutcracker, performing at the Rose tonight through Friday at 7 pm.

Rose Carolers

2009-12-04T13:53:00.000-05:00

We hummed, we oooed, we caroled on the corner. The Rose Theatre Carolers celebrated Winter Light's in Brampton last night! Find us next in the lobby before the Nutcracker on Dec 10 at 6:30 pm ;)