Artistic Endeavors

          We are all artists, even if you claim to not have an artistic bone in your body.  You do – it’s there.  Perhaps you’re underestimating your own creativity. 

            I can’t paint.  I draw only stick figures.  When I try to dance it’s not pretty.  However, from a very early age I loved music and would frequently burst out in song.  Then, in my teen years, I discovered the fulfillment of writing.  Arranging words together in a way that both inspires and describes makes me feel productive and important.   A few years ago, I tried making jewelry – a venture that now garners me compliments and holiday gift requests.

            While I embrace all of the artistic ventures listed above, there are many people I know whom frequently say, “I wish I was creative like that.”  I do my utmost to convince them that they are artistic and there must be something creative they do.  Please don’t ever believe that you are not talented.  For you are, indeed!  The first step is believing that to be true.  Give your creative interests credence.  Do you enjoy cooking?  Take a culinary class.  Have you always been fascinated by sculpted art? Volunteer at a museum.  Maybe you love supernatural-themed books and movies?  Ever tried writing one yourself?  You’re probably well versed in that genre to understand the terminology and style.

            Plenty of people enjoy music but can’t hold a note.  That shouldn’t stop them from immersing themselves in that world.  Start an open-mic night at your restaurant or get a part-time job helping out at a concert venue.  If you grew up fascinated by the lure of the theatre but are too introverted to ever perform on stage, volunteer to be an usher at your local county theatre.  Or, start a blog that details your favorite shows and other interesting facts about the industry.

            The point being, be creative!  We all have interests that make us smile just thinking about them.  Even if you can’t financially afford to pursue an artistic career, find a creative outlet that lets your spirit soar!

TV snob

Television show snobbery does exist; and I knowingly partake in this particular sort of bias.

My criteria for a great TV show differs from those who have a say in the industry's nominations.  I don't follow the norm, or watch a certain program because it's the "must-see" program.  The shows I spend time watching on a regular basis are ones that move me in some way.  At times, it's the characters who are so interesting, complex and identifiable that I can't help but be invested in following their story.  Other times, the ingenious writing and story idea inspires me on a creative level; creating an underlying level of respect for those involved.

I tend to disagree with award show nominations when it comes to the television and film industry.  The ones the critics praise may be of extraordinary talent but most of them I've never watched nor cared to.  I'll admit there's even a little bit of stubbornness too; if you tell me something's great and I don't see what all the fuss is about I'm less likely to tune in!

Here's just a few of the shows (both currently on the air and ones that have left an indelible impression) that didn't receive award recognition but have not only my appreciation and praise but that of so many others...

• "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" - Well written, brilliantly acted and full of depth and creative inspiration.  The title may leave you saying, "Um, no thank you" but you'd be missing out on incredible television programming.  This show had everything I believed a great program should...strong, complex characters, witty dialogue, innovative storytelling and consistent excellence in their medium.
• "NCIS" - Still putting out new episodes, this unconventional drama series doesn't fit into the mold of the standard cop, lawyer, hospital themed programs. The interaction of the characters, witty dialogue and interspersing of comedy elements make this one show I look forward to watching each week.  The most disappointing part of "NCIS" not receiving it's due critical praise is the exceptional talent of it's actors. Performers who balance both drama and comedy equally well; without coming off cliche or one dimensional.
• "Smash" - The first time I saw a preview for this show I knew without question I'd be tuning in! It stars Katherine McPhee (who I voted for in "American Idol"), Megan Hilty (who I read great things about in the Broadway world), Christina Borle (who I saw in "Spamalot" and "Legally Blonde; the musical") and the brilliant Debra Messing (the "Sound of Music" singalong episode from "Will & Grace" is still my all-time favorite). A musical theatre fan at heart of course I'd be watching with anticipation.  And I wasn't disappointed.  The episodes kept getting better and better and I watched thinking "I can absolutely see Katherine McPhee and Megan Hilty getting award nominations for their work." Alas, while the Primetime Emmys recognized the show's achievement in choreography, music and guest acting neither Kat's nor Megan's name was among the nominees.

There are plenty of other television programs that I enjoy watching for the sheer entertainment factor.  I support shows that take me throw a gamut of emotions; often times during the same episode.  I root for the characters, look forward to the next episode and in a world full of watching shows whenever you feel like I relish the anticipation of waiting to see what happens next!

Great News - ies!

When I was 15 years old I saw a film that would become one of my all-time favorites!  And not just because it had a cast of good-looking, teenage actors.  Watching "Newsies" on-screen made me smile, had me singing, and dreaming I could dance.

In a time before digital downloads and even CDs I listened to the movie's soundtrack again, and again, and again.  My friend and I even used a good old fashioned tape recorder and recorded the songs while watching the movie.  That way, we had the versions with the speaking parts included.

Fast-forward 20 years and now there's a stage adaptation of this entertaining story.  From the moment I heard the show was opening on Broadway I knew I had to see it.  I anxiously awaited news (pun intended) from the theatre websites on how the show was developing and when it would be opening.  Then it got nominated for a slew of awards!  Not to get all "hoity toity" but I felt a sort of pride in the show's recognition.  It's an amazing story with great music and quite fitting for the stage!

For those of you who may not be familiar with "Newsies" here's a brief synopsis...In 1899, the newsboys of New York stand up and fight for their rights against mighty publishing giants, Joseph Pulitzer and William Randolph Hearst. As they find their voice (not just musically mind you) they speak for not only their fellow newsies but for the rights of children workers everywhere!

With music from the genius Alan Menken, lyrics from the exceptionally talented Jack Feldman and a book by Harvey Fierstein, this production of "Newsies" excels on many levels.  From the set design to the brilliant choreography, "Newsies" lets the story lead the way.  All of the pieces working together to create a powerful production.  I'd be remiss not to mention the extremely gifted cast including the range of Broadway newcomers like Ben Fankhauser ("Davey") and Kara Lindsay ("Katherine").  As "Jack Kelly", Jeremy Jordan holds our attention, has us cheering him on and understanding the struggles his character faces.

The movie's worth watching, partly to see Christian Bale singing and dancing but because of the catchy music and amazing choreography from Kenny Ortega.  Then, go see the show on Broadway!  It'll be a couple of hours that'll leave you cheering, humming and smiling.  But even more than that, there's a certain pride in what makes our country unique.  Joining together to fight for a cause that we believe in.  Standing up for one another even when told there's no hope.  Ultimately believing that decency, equality and communication are possible!

For more information on the Broadway musical, visit www.newsiesthemusical.com

All the best,
Kelly