Send2Press Newswire

Think Tank Promotions and Net TV Broadcasting Reflect on Tragedy and Celebrate Success

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 12:18:03 GMT

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif., April 29 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- To commemorate the first annual anniversary of the Angora Fire, Think Tank Promotions, in association with Net TV Broadcasting, present "The Angora Benefit Concert" (www.angorabenefitconcert.com). Gates open at noon at the Horizon Casino Outdoor Concert Center, 50 Highway 50, Lake Tahoe, Nevada, June 24, 2008.

This all-day benefit concert will showcase national and local entertainment and is designed to create awareness and monetary support. Proceeds from ticket sales will be given to the "Locals for Locals" fund.

"Last year, we all witnessed what is possible when a community pulls together all of its resources to provide for the needs of our citizens," Brian Gogue, president of Think Tank Promotions, says. "One year later, our community still needs support as it rebuilds."

On June 24, 2007, the South Lake Tahoe community was devastated by one of the most significant disasters, to date. It received global media attention as 3,500 residents were displaced and 3,100 acres of forest burned. Support was provided at the community and national levels. People opened up their homes and businesses offered support. The long-term effects are immeasurable and the repercussions of this tragedy are still being felt by victims, families and friends.

Gogue is also one of the neighbors who lost his home last year in the fire. He and his three children survived the blaze, but lost everything they had."We were lucky to have a great insurance policy," Gogue said. "Not everyone was so fortunate, and I feel that I can use the influence of Think Tank Promotions to help the community."

This benefit concert is designed to bring the community together to reflect on the tragedy, to celebrate immediate success, and to provide support to the families who are still trying to pick up the pieces of their lives.

People interested in the local music scene are excited about the headliners -- the Johnny Vernazza Band followed by Elvin Bishop - because Elvin and Johnny V. have not played together or shared the same bill for over a decade.

Overall, the concert will highlight eight bands with special guest appearances.

Attendance is estimated at 6,000-8,000 visitors, not including vendors/exhibitors. Sponsor and vendor packets are available. Sponsorship packages range from $250 to $1,000; vendor booths are $500 for 10 hours.

"Our sponsors and vendors are an integral part of supporting the financial obligations of an event this size," Gogue explains.

Benefits of sponsorship include: community appreciation and recognition of philanthropic behavior; association with legendary musicians; a business web site link on angorabenefitconcert.com which will be up and running for one year with video and picture updates; and finally, major brand recognition.

Think Tank Promotions creates opportunities for community growth through benefit concerts and fundraisers. It is their mission to provide quality events that foster a strong sense of community through arts and entertainment.

Admission to the event is $20.00 and tickets can be found on line at: www.angorabenefitconcert.com. Families affected by the fire and local emergency crews will be provided free admission.

For more information contact:
Brian Gogue, of Think Tank Promotions, 530-541-1905, briangogue @yahoo.com.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Angora Benefit Concert, Think Tank Promotions

International Pageant System Comes to New York State

Mon, 17 Mar 2008 12:18:01 GMT

Seeking Contestants Statewide to Represent New York at International Pageant in Chicago

ALTOONA, Pa., March 17 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- ALTO Associates LLC (www.nypageants.com) has announced the establishment of the Miss Teen, Miss, & Mrs. International Pageant system in New York State. Women from 13 to 56 will compete in one of three pageants for the chance to represent New York in the Miss Teen, Miss, and Mrs. International Pageant in Chicago each July. The first New York state pageant will be held in the Greater Binghamton area on October 11, 2008.

A FAMILY AFFAIR... The International Pageant system has been developed to promote today's married women, their accomplishments, and commitment to family and marriage. Around the world women are finding this system to be the opportunity to work with their husband and family to become positive role models. Being the premiere pageant for married women has given Mrs. International(R) a chance to open doors for married women around the world.

Beginning 21 years ago, Mrs. International(R) was developed to have higher standards than other pageant systems. The focus behind Mrs. International(R) is to showcase women 21 to 56 years old, married at least six months and a resident of the state or a citizen of the country she represents. Each contestant competes in Interview Competition, which is valued for 50% of her overall score, Evening Gown, valued for 25% and Fitness Wear for 25%. Each contestant has the opportunity to select a platform of her choice that she spends the year promoting. Husbands are a direct part of the show, escorting their wives in the Evening Gown competition, and the husband crowns his wife titleholder.

Created in 2005, the focus behind Miss International(R) is to showcase single women, who are 19 to 29 years old by July 1st of the competition year, and are a resident of the state or a citizen of the country that they represent. Each contestant competes in Interview Competition which is valued at 40% of their total score, Evening Gown, valued for 20%, Fitness Wear for 20%, and Fun Fashion Wear 20%. Each contestant has the opportunity to select a platform of her choice, that she spends the year promoting.

The purpose of Miss Teen International is to showcase women who are 13 to 18 years old, by July 1st of the competition year and are a resident of the state or a citizen of the country they represent. Each contestant competes in Interview Competition valued at 40% of their total score, Evening Gown valued for 20%, Fitness Wear for 20%, and Fun Fashion Wear 20%. Each contestant has the opportunity to select a platform of her choice that she spends the year promoting.

Prior to the establishment of the upcoming statewide pageant, representatives from New York were chosen at large to represent the Empire State in Chicago through an extensive interview process. The current Mrs. New York, Lori Donaudy, will compete in Chicago on July 18 & 19, 2008. The Miss and Miss Teen International Pageants will be held in Chicago on July 25 & 26, 2008 with New York represented by Jessica Lee Bryant and Heather Mackey, respectively. Anyone wishing to explore competing for one of the three New York state titles to be awarded in October should contact the pageant at www.nypageants.com.

ALTO Associates LLC is a full service event planning, corporate conference planning, marketing, fundraising & campaign management, and media design/production services company. Based in Altoona PA, they handle event ticketing, ad creation and production, invitations, catering, transportation, meeting materials, decoration, venue negotiations, and staffing for events of all sizes with experience in both the for-profit and not-for-profit communities. ALTO Associates is managed by Jodi Cessna, Director, and Scott Cessna, Producer, of the Pennsylvania and New York International Pageants.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, New York International Pageants, ALTO Associates LLC

Metrofunk.com Launches Club Metrofunk

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 13:48:51 GMT

NEW YORK, N.Y., March 12 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Metrofunk (Metrofunk.com), the first metropolitan based online social network built by trendsetters for trendsetters, announced today that they will celebrate the company's launch into public beta on Wednesday, March 19th at Club Metrofunk, located at 532 West 27th Street. If the address sounds familiar, that is because it is the address of the popular Manhattan nightclub, Home.

New York nightclubs have been known to be at the forefront of style, culture, and class. Many trends in the late 80s and early 90s such as break dancing, various fashion fads, and music artists like: Prince, C+C Music Factory, George Michael, Wham, and Information Society were born from nightclubs when the nightlife scene encouraged outrageous personalities and unique styles. Metrofunk.com and Home have collaborated in an effort to revitalize this long lost New York nightlife culture by dedicating Wednesday nights specifically to trendsetters in the nightlife, fashion, film, and music industries. Starting Wednesday March 19th and continuing every Wednesday thereafter, Home will officially be renamed Club Metrofunk.

Metrofunk.com is a project that began three years ago by industry veterans with the primary focus of facilitating creativity, foster openness, and empowering trendsetters within the industries of nightlife, fashion, film, and music. By taking on the form of an offline establishment every Wednesday, Club Metrofunk will be able to establish a real and stable networking environment for trendsetters to mingle and network with the people that support their creative vision, style, and mission.

The early portion of the night will serve as an offline showcase that will allow music artists to perform new hits, filmmakers to present their latest projects, fashion designers to expose their new lines, and so forth. The film feature for the debut night will be "Fly," an unorthodox and insightful view of combined creative genres including art, fashion, music, and film. Its methodology of representing the subconscious mind through film and photography has been raved about in Vogue, Nylon, WWD, and New York Times. The latter portion of the night will be fueled by celebrity nightlife personalities and their gorgeous entourages.

Jon B, owner of nightclubs Home and GuestHouse states, "I've seen my fair share of events focused websites and social networks on the Internet, and I think the Metrofunk model is truly unique and I am looking forward to having Club Metrofunk create a new and exciting night at Home, where some of the City's great musicians and filmmakers will get a chance to showcase their work to industry tastemakers."

Metrofunk's CEO, Han Kao says, "We are working hard to ensure that every aspect of Club Metrofunk will exemplify an atmosphere that reflects what Metrofunk stands for. Metrofunk is not just a website, or some cool new fad. It may manifest in the form of a website or an offline nightclub, but ultimately it is any medium that will help remove disconnects in our personal lifestyle that common sense dictates should be connected. We are excited to be working with Jon B and Home and feel it is a big step forward in our overall mission."

About Metrofunk
Metrofunk.com is an invite-only social and mobile network specifically designed to attract and empower trendsetters around the world in the lifestyle industries of nightlife events, fashion, film, and music. Metrofunk.com's primary focus is to help facilitate creativity, foster openness, and become a useful marketing tool. This allows the mundane process of getting a message into public awareness to be simple and easy, thus allowing more energy and focus on the work itself. That's the overall idea.

About Home
In 2005, nightlife impresario, Jon B launched New York's hottest nightclub, Home. Since it's opening, Home has become a premiere nightlife destination for many of today's A-list celebrities including Beyonce, Jessica Simpson, Kim Kardashian, Fergie, Lindsay Lohan, Ashlee Simpson, Jessica Alba, Jay Z, Nicky Hilton, Scarlett Johansson, Derek Jeter and Sarah Michelle Gellar. In December 2007, Home expanded, opening a second location in St. Louis.

No celebrity endorsement claimed or implied.

IMAGES:
*(PHOTO 72dpi: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/08-0312-Metrofunk_72dpi.jpg)

*(PHOTO 300dpi: Send2Press.com/photobay/08-0312-Metrofunk_300dpi.jpg)

*(Photo Caption: Club Metrofunk event invite.)

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Club Metrofunk New York, online social network for trendsetters

Backstage Broker, A New Meta-Site for Ticket Brokers and Buyers Hits The Web

Fri, 07 Mar 2008 01:00:30 GMT

NEW YORK, N.Y., March 7 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- BackstageBroker.com is proud to announce the launch of their event ticket comparison website. Backstage Broker does not sell tickets, it "brokers" ticket buyers with the best providers in the secondary ticket industry.

BackstageBroker.com is the first premier meta-site for ticket brokers. It offers a one-stop-shop solution for consumers, providing a marketplace for ticket resellers.

The hassle of site-hopping for seats can be frustrating, time consuming and costly. Backstage Broker provides multiple providers to choose from on one site, creating a better resource to score tickets to concert, sports and theater events.

While most brokers offer almost identical inventory, today's savvy seat searcher has become increasingly aware that no two ticket providers are quite the same. "Service plays a prominent role in the purchase process. It's not just a matter of price. It's an evolution that's happening in this industry. We offer a better tool for the discerning consumer," says David Wexler, Founder of Backstage Broker.

Mr. Wexler is not new to the ticketing industry. Previously, he successfully launched a travel comparison meta-site, and has worked hand in hand with top ticket providers in this industry.

The goal remains the same for the increasingly growing and competitive secondary ticket market; assisting ticket providers build their brand and relationships with buyers.

"Our aim is to provide the ultimate connection between buyer and broker," says Wexler. "We know that seat searchers are willing to pay for what they want, and Backstage Broker serves as the preeminent portal for purchasing tickets."

To find out more about Backstage Broker, visit: www.backstagebroker.com.

Media Contact:
David Wexler, President and Founder
of Backstage Broker
feedback @backstagebroker.com

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Backstage Broker tickets site, secondary ticket industry

Texas Strikes it Rich in Ivories with Baldwin's Million Dollar Piano Expo

Wed, 07 Nov 2007 16:15:57 GMT

DALLAS, Texas - Nov. 7 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Have you ever seen a piano worth One Million Dollars? You'll have your chance Wednesday November 14, 2007 through Friday November 16, 2007, at the Piano Gallery in Dallas, and on Saturday November 17, 2007 when international pianist and Baldwin Artist LOMASCOLA plays one of the world's most expensive and rare pianos at the Casa Manana Theatre in Fort Worth, Texas.

Covered in over 10,000 mirrored tiles, rhinestones, sequins and jewels, the custom order grand piano was made by the Baldwin Piano Company in 1975 for LIBERACE. It is touring as a featured "historical instrument" in Lomascola's trademarked "Million Dollar Piano" show. The world's greatest piano entertainment show direct from Las Vegas features famous piano music played in dazzling Las Vegas style and dynamic showmanship. Lomascola, who performed the show at the Bellagio and Riviera Hotels on the Las Vegas Strip says, "this is the most amazing piano I've ever played. Just knowing its history, I believe this piano is priceless...and the sound, just wait until you hear the sound. You won't believe it."

The show is sponsored by Piano Gallery and the Baldwin Piano Company and is the highlight of a weekend long Baldwin and Piano Gallery million dollar piano EXPO and sale of which partial proceeds benefit Casa Manana's community outreach performing troupe, the "Casa Kids." Each fall, Casa Manana auditions students from the Casa Manana's Theatre School program and selects up to 16 talented young performers to join the troupe. Once selected, these talented youngsters provide arts entertainment for a variety of audiences in the community. Known as Casa Manana's "Goodwill Ambassadors", these youngsters perform a song-and-dance revue throughout the local area at nursing homes, hospitals, retirement communities and at events such as Mayfest, Oktoberfest, the Montessori Physical Fitness Fair and the Main Street Arts Festival. Additionally, they have traveled and performed at Walt Disney World, the Epcot Center, Opryland, Fiesta Texas, the Carnival Cruise Line and in Nagaoka, Japan as part of the Sister Cities Exchange Program.

In addition to the "Casa Kids" community outreach program, Piano Gallery is sponsoring the Young Artist Piano Competition. The Grand Prize winner of the competition wins a new Baldwin Artist Console Piano ($8,000 value) and a once in a lifetime chance to play Baldwin's million dollar mirrored piano on stage in Lomascola's Saturday evening concert. Winner to be announced on News Radio 1080 KRLD.

Lomascola, who many fans call the Andre Rieu of piano, is winning the hearts and smiles of people all over the world. No one plays the piano like Lomascola and all tend to agree that he has a supernatural ability to sit at the piano and transport the listener to a realm never before experienced. Lomascola began playing the piano entirely by ear at the age of two and today is one of the world's most amazing improvisers of music. The legendary pianist Roger Williams says, "he's the best I've heard so far" as he describes Lomascola's interpretation of Williams' 1955 hit Autumn Leaves.

Lomascola earned his Master of Music degree and scholarship awards from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and has appeared extensively on the Las Vegas strip. He tours for the Baldwin Piano Company as a Baldwin Artist and clinician giving concerts, workshops, master classes and seminars. In addition to his concert tour schedule, Lomascola also performs benefit concerts for the Oprah Winfrey Angel Network and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

"If you've never experienced a Lomascola concert, you are long overdue" says his director of marketing, Beverly Bean. "It is absolutely the most beautiful music that you will never forget." Accompanied by musical director Ron Burch and lush Lomascola orchestral arrangements, Lomascola's "Million Dollar Piano" show answers the question that everyone seems to be asking these days, "what ever happened to good music?"

"I think my timing is right", says Lomascola, "because we are in a time right now when our society needs this music and this type of entertainment that anymore is in very short supply. When I look into the audience and see the peace, joy and happiness in people's faces, I know they are enjoying my music and that I am helping to make this world a better place."

Baldwin's million dollar mirrored piano will be on display at Piano Gallery in Fort Worth located at 13520 Inwood Rd. Dallas, Texas 75244. Viewing hours are November 14, 15 & 16 from 10am to 6pm and November 18 from 10am to 6pm.

Piano Gallery will also host a variety of free Master classes, teacher seminars, children's concerts and special events with Lomascola during the EXPO. If you would like to participate or want more information please call Piano Gallery at 972-490-KEYS (5397).

Information about Lomascola is available on-line at www.milliondollarpiano.com.

Copyright © 2007 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Piano Gallery Dallas Texas, performer pianist Lomascola

Popovich Comedy Pet Theater Schedules Holiday Tour in California

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 21:00:00 GMT

LOS ANGELES, Calif. - Oct. 24 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- The Gregory Popovich Comedy Pet Theater is taking its show on the road. After touring for seven years and then celebrating its first full year of daily shows at the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, the show is scheduled to appear in several cities throughout California during the month of December.

Voted "The Best Family Show in Las Vegas," Comedy Pet Theater is one of its kind in America.

"We've had many requests from California residents to bring the show to them," Valerie Reeder, Director of Marketing and Public Relations, said, "so, that's what we did."

The Comedy Pet Theater is scheduled to appear in eight cities: Thousand Oaks, Los Angeles, Fresno, Palo Alto, San Francisco, Santa Barbara, Bakersfield and San Diego. For a full schedule of times and dates, visit: www.comedypet.com.

Comedy Pet Theater is a family-oriented blend of European physical comedy, juggling and balancing skills by international award winner Gregory Popovich and his extraordinarily talented house pets.

All pets that appear in the show have been rescued from shelters across the country. Pets include cats, dogs, and birds; there are over 30 pets in the show.

Animals are placed into human roles where they have been provided with a second chance at life. In fact, the show has been nicknamed "Second Chance." Pets act out various roles as high school students, class clowns, rowdy train passengers and more.

The show is designed to educate people about pet responsibility, including pet adoption, spaying and neutering, while demonstrating how unique animals are.

Popovich, a Russian native and former Moscow Circus star, has won numerous awards for his juggling, balancing abilities and physical comedy acts. He and his pets have appeared on national television including Jay Leno, David Letterman, Animal Planet and CNN. The Comedy Pet Theater show was also a finalist on NBC's "America's Got Talent" and has been named one of the top 10 acts in North America.

Popovich has entertained audiences in over 25 countries and numerous cities throughout the U.S. He is excited to tour California and to share his philosophy that "animals are people too."

For more information, visit: www.comedypet.com.

Copyright © 2007 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Popovich Comedy Pet Theater, entertainer Gregory Popovich

Announcing the Los Angeles Leg of Dmitri Hvorostovsky's North America Tour

Thu, 27 Sep 2007 17:00:00 GMT

LOS ANGELES, Calif. - Sept. 27 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- International Productions, a Los Angeles based company, today announced that baritone Dmitri Hvorostovsky will perform one live concert on the stage of the Pasadena Civic Auditorium on November 11, 2007 at 7:30 p.m.

Accompanied by conductor Constantine Orbelian and the Russian Chamber Orchestra and the Moscow Academy of Choral Arts, Hvorostovsky will perform Russian romances and arias from Russian Operas by Rimsky-Korsakov, Tchaikovsky and others. Tickets are on sale now.

The world famous Russian baritone made his western operatic debut at the Nice Opera in Tchaikovsky's Pique Dame, and his career rapidly expanded to include regular engagements at all major opera houses, including the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, the Metropolitan Opera, New York, the Paris Opera Bastille and Chatelet, the Bavarian State Opera, Munich, the Teatro alla Scala, Milan, the Vienna State Opera and the Chicago Lyric Opera, in addition to appearances at the major international festivals.

Hvorostovsky also is a celebrated recitalist and has performed in the world's major international recital venues, including the Wigmore Hall, London, Queen's Hall, Edinburgh, Carnegie Hall, New York, the Teatro alla Scala, Milan, the Tchaikovsky Conservatoire, Moscow, the Liceu, Barcelona, the Suntory Hall Tokyo and the Musikverein, Vienna. He also has given recitals in Istanbul, Jerusalem, Australia, South America and across the Far East.

For more information about the event and to purchase tickets online, please visit www.TicketsR.com or www.TicketMaster.com.

Copyright © 2007 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, International Productions, baritone Dmitri Hvorostovsky

New York Musician Commemorates Bob Dylan's Birthday at Infamous Greenwich Village Hangout

Wed, 09 May 2007 23:00:00 GMT

NEW YORK, N.Y. - May 9 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- On Saturday, May 26th at 7:00 p.m., Steve Urban, native New Yorker and ground-breaking musician, will celebrate the 66th birthday of musical legend, Bob Dylan, at Kenny's Castaways, a well-known Dylan hangout on Bleecker Street in Greenwich Village. Urban will honor classic Dylan tracks combined with original instrumentation.

Steve Urban, a die-hard Dylan fan, has been inspired by the artist's lyrics and musical genius. During one of Dylan's recent tours, Urban jammed to "Visions of Johanna" in an MP3 file that he created for myspace.com; it received 10,000 plays in one week.

Urban was so blown away by the amount of public interest that he decided it was time to take his passion to the next level. As a solo performer with a powerful stage presence, Kenny's Castaways is the perfect playing venue because it has the edge in musical ancestry and remains a major force for newcomers to showcase their talents.

Over the years, Kenny's (www.kennyscastawaysnyc.com) has developed a reputation as being the place to play and to be seen. Opening in 1967, Kenny's immediately became the venue of choice among up and coming acts. It all began when the New York Dolls started playing there, and it was during one of their shows that Joey and DeeDee Ramone met. One of the most memorable moments came when Bruce Springsteen took the stage for a one-week run in 1973 - his New York City debut with the E-Street Band.

Musical icons such as Deborah Harry, Aerosmith, the Marshall Tucker Band, and Blues Traveler have also taken the stage at Kenny's and Phish debuted there in 1988.

When Urban takes the stage, he will rekindle Dylan's adventurous and daring spirit.

"In 1965, Dylan went electric combining the power and brute force of rock with the meaning and complex lyrics of folks songs," Urban explained. "For this show, all songs will be classic Dylan tracks that will feature hip-hop and electronic beats mixed with original instrumentation."

Urban has also played at other New York favorite locales such as the Knitting Factory. His first show was dubbed "Carnival Parade" - a unique, one-man show that mixed live guitar, vocals, DJ effects, and computer mash-ups, touching on varied styles such as hip-hop, jazz, psychedelic rock, and modern jam. He has performed "Carnival Parade" at several locations throughout New York and in Philadelphia.

For more information contact:
Serge Randolphe, of Randolphe Entertainment, for Steve Urban, 866-340-4009 x801, Serge@randolphe.com.

A Journey from Berlin to Los Angeles: UTE LEMPER in Concert, March 14, 2007 at 8 PM, UCLA Royce Hall

Wed, 28 Feb 2007 18:30:00 GMT

LOS ANGELES, Calif. - Feb. 28 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Celebrating 40th Anniversary The LOS ANGELES-BERLIN SISTER CITY. Personifying the cabaret genre, Ute Lemper (www.UteLEMPER.com) is known for her moody interpretations of songbook standards, laced with witty asides and knowing looks, weaving an atmosphere that draws in audiences like few other performers today.

On the occasion of the 40th Anniversary of the sister city partnership between Los Angeles and Berlin, the sultry cabaret singer and musical star will appear in an exclusive engagement at Royce Hall taking the audience on a musical journey from Berlin to Los Angeles presenting a repertoire of Berlin cabaret songs, Marlene Dietrich favorites and music by Kurt Weill, Walter Jurman, Irving Berlin and Oscar Hammerstein II.

Tickets: $57., $47., $27. ($3. handling fee)

UCLA Central Ticket Office: (310) 825-2101 E-mail: tickets@uclalive.org

March 14, 2007 at 8 PM

Location: UCLA Royce Hall, 340 Royce Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90095 (enter from Sunset Blvd.)

Text provided by news source.

Copyright © 2007 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Ute Lemper concert, Los Angeles-Berlin Sister City Committee

Bassist Jay Leonhart Presents Jazz at Symphony Space: Broadway Tunes to Swing at Uptown Performing Arts Center

Wed, 03 Jan 2007 13:55:00 GMT

NEW YORK, N.Y. - Jan. 3 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- New York City audiences will have the rare opportunity on Sunday night, January 28, to hear "Jazz Hits from the Broadway Stage," a swinging, intimate program of well-known Broadway show tunes performed by some of the city's most-accomplished and well-known jazz musicians. It is sure to be a treat for general audiences and jazz lovers alike.

As conceived by jazz bassist, composer, and arranger Jay Leonhart, three-time NARAS Most Valuable Bassist, the evening's program will consist of well-known favorites ranging from "Ain't Misbehavin'" to "Surrey with the Fringe on Top" as well as selections from much-loved Broadway musicals such as Porgy & Bess, My Fair Lady, West Side Story, and many more. (Photo Caption: Bassist Jay Leonhart.)

"This is great music played for a general audience," says Leonhart. "We've got some of the best musicians in New York, and we're going to have a lot of fun. You won't have to be a serious jazz fan to get a great, big kick out of what we're going to do."

A first-call jazz bassist who has recorded with pop artists from Frank Sinatra and Judy Garland to Sting and Carly Simon, Jay Leonhart has also played behind, and toured with, some of the biggest names in jazz, including Duke Ellington, Tony Bennett, and Peggy Lee. Celebrating his swinging, elegant style, one critic dubbed him "the Fred Astaire of jazz."

Anchoring the evening's program of performances along with Leonhart will be pianist Eric Reed and trombonist Wycliffe Gordon. Both received international attention as members of various Wynton Marsalis bands in the early 1990's and have gone on to become highly regarded leaders of their own jazz ensembles. As a trio, Leonhart, Reed, and Gordon have been appearing regularly at The Blue Note, one of New York City's premier jazz clubs.

The project follows Leonhart's most recent success, a series of one-man, one-bass performances spotlighting his talents as vocalist, instrumentalist, and composer of what the Washington Post calls "wry, witty, and wonderful lyrics." Leonhart has also recorded more than 15 of his own albums, including the recent Rodgers & Leonhart, a tribute to Broadway lyricist Richard Rodgers.

Serving as lead vocalist for the evening will be Carolyn Leonhart, a jazz and R&B performer who made her first live appearance at the age of 16, sitting in with her father at The Blue Note. She has since recorded five CDs of her own and performed with the reunited jazz and R&B band, Steely Dan. The New York Times compared her to a young Ella Fitzgerald, while All About Jazz said she "inflects her jazz singing with an unmistakable dose of soul."

The evening will also feature the contributions of pianist and vocalist Barbara Carroll. A graduate of the New England Conservatory, Carroll began her career as part of an all-girl trio entertaining troops on World War Two USO tours and later became a fixture on the jazz mecca of New York's legendary 52nd Street. A recording artist on the Verve and Atlantic record labels, Carroll remains a popular figure with patrons of New York's club and jazz cabaret scene.

"Jazz Hits from the Broadway Stage" is planned as the first in a series of concerts that will lead to the establishment of a Jazz at Symphony Space program, sponsoring and presenting original interpretations of classic American popular music.

Symphony Space, located at Broadway and 95th Street, is a performing arts center committed to providing "a venue for artistic growth." In addition to presenting a wide array of literary, dance, and children's programs, Symphony Space also plays host to musical performances that range from the New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players to the Global Rhythms series.

For ticket information call: 212-864-5400 or go to www.symphonyspace.org.

Text provided by an agency, Jonas Music Services, on behalf of the news source.

Fifth Degree presents: 'The Man He Used To Be' Inspirational Musical Drama

Tue, 14 Nov 2006 22:06:00 GMT

Starring: Trent Roberts, Dave Hollister, Sean Levert, Christopher Williams, Monifa, and Terri Britton

ATLANTA, Ga. - Nov. 14 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Fabolus Fox and Charlotte, NC Ovens Auditorium is where this special limited engagements will take place on Wednesday November 22nd at 8:00pm and Sunday 26th, 2006 at 3:00pm & 7:00pm in Atlanta, and Friday November 24th at 8pm and Saturday 25th, 2006 at 3pm and 8pm in Charlotte. The Fabolus Fox Theater is located at 660 Peachtree Street Atlanta, GA 30308, and The Ovens Auditorium is located at 2700 East Independence Blvd. Charlotte, North Carolina 28205.

You may also go to online at www.FoxTheatre.com for Atlanta, or www.OvensAuditorium.com for Charlotte for more information.

Tickets are available at all Ticket Master Locations, tickets may also be charged by phone at 404-817-8700 for Atlanta or 704-522-6500 for Charlotte or go online at www.ticketmaster.com. Limited $10 tickets are available in both cities.

THE MAN HE USED TO BE is the funniest stage plays since Madea. It is a soul stirring comedy, drama and inspirational musical that drives home the message that families really need to come together, that men need to stand up and take care of our families, and that families that pray together stay together. This inspirational musical drama focuses on the lives of two broken homes, their struggles and their redemption through the awesome power of God.

THE MAN HE USED TO BE is a clean, family oriented production, starring some of today's most talented artists. The Hilarious TRENT ROBERTS - BET comedian - as "Antwan" (The Charlotte Post said he is the funniest comedian/actor since Madea) R&B Recording artist/actor Christopher Williams of the movie "New Jack City" R&B/gospel recording with the new # 1 selling gospel album in the Country "The Book of David: Vol. 1 The Transition" recording artist/actor Dave Hollister.

Sean Levert - R&B recording artist of the Levert Family, gospel recording artist Terri Britton Brown R&B recording artist Monifah, and R&B recording artist Dave Tolliver of "Men at Large." At the Atlanta, GA Sunday November 26th, 2006 at 3:00pm & 7:00pm there will be special guest star appearances by actor/R&B artist Tyrese from movies "Baby Boy" and "Waist Deep."

For more information please contact Jinny Sample of Stars & Artists Entertainment at 717-236-4500.

Psychic to Ride Blindfolded in Philadelphia Using 'Second Sight'

Mon, 24 Jul 2006 16:24:00 GMT

HOCKESSIN, DE - July 24 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Alexander, a world-renowned psychic entertainer, will attempt to ride a bicycle around the bar at Chickie and Pete's Sports Restaurant in Philadelphia on Friday, July 28th. He will then attempt to drive out the door and around the building, again while blindfolded.

Alexander will be one of several contestants participating in the "What Would You Do for A Harley" stunt contest, sponsored by Barbara's Harley Davison Store in Philadelphia and WIP Radio, also in Philadelphia. The best stunt will be awarded a brand new Harley Davidson motorcycle valued at over $20,000.

The event will run from 6-10 a.m. at the restaurant, which is located at: 1300 Roosevelt Avenue, Philadelphia.

When Alexander presented his stunt to the WIP staff, Angelo Cattaldi, famed sports radio celebrity at WIP said, "I gotta see this."

"I couldn't resist the opportunity," said Alexander from his home in Hockessin, Delaware. "In 1960, I drove a Mercedes out of a showroom in Panama City, Panama while in the service. So I feel very comfortable performing this stunt. I had wanted to drive the Harley but the station's lawyers rejected that idea, so I will be riding a Tandem bike blindfolded along with a blindfolded young lady. The chance to win a Harley is also very appealing."

He added, "Should I win, I will donate the bike to the Sunshine Foundation in Philadelphia." The Sunshine Foundation grants wishes to children with serious and life threatening illnesses.

Alexander credits his heightened intuition and ESP for his ability to even consider the stunt. Alexander normally performs as a psychic entertainer at corporate events, nightclubs and psychic parties, throughout the world. "As a teenager, I began to realize that I was able to foresee certain events in the future," said Alexander.

"In my later years, I recognized that there was an opportunity to perform for money after seeing people like Kreskin and Dunninger, the premier psychic entertainers of the late 20th Century I had the opportunity of studying with Dunninger before he passed away."

Alexander will be using what he refers to as "Second Sight." To complete the stunt, he will walk around the bar and the building to familiarize himself with the environment and then depend on his memory and psychic powers to complete the blindfold stunt. He will also perform a warm up psychic demonstration before he attempts the bike ride.

A Faery Hunt! O.C. Now Playing In Huntington Beach Central Park

Fri, 19 May 2006 00:58:00 GMT

HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA - May 18 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- A Live Children's Interactive Adventure: "A Faery Hunt! O.C." If you're one of the many people who have seen a faery or two, or perhaps a troll, or even a symurg while walking the dog in Central Park, don't panic. You are not suffering from an illness or a disorder that makes you see these creatures. They really are there.

On Saturdays mornings at about 10:30 a.m., world-renowned faery-hunters, Frances Griffith and Elsie Wright, are meeting with children from all over Orange County to seek and find these "faeries and other magical creatures."

"It's a show, it's a hike, and it's creative dramatic play," explains A Faery Hunt! O.C. producer, Cynthia Milenkovich. "More importantly, it's a family thing for the faery prince and princess in all of us."

A Faery Hunt! O.C. is the Orange County Company of the popular A Faery Hunt! show that has run for over a year in Los Angeles under the direction of writer/producer Debbie Rothstein. The O.C. company has been up and running since their successful May 6 preview, to the delight of parents and children.

"Children as young as two and as old as...someone twice my age...will love this show," claims Ms. Milenkovich. The show relies heavily on parent endorsement and word-of-mouth and "...parents are already referring friends and neighbors to us after they have attended, and we thank them."

In addition to the public shows scheduled for Saturday mornings, the entire show, as well as various characters, is available for private parties, school-based performances, personal appearances and fund raising-activities. Check out www.afaeryhunt.com to see information on both Los Angeles and Orange County locations.

Reservations for the Saturday morning show are recommended by calling (714) 557-1507. Children must be accompanied by children and there is a $10-per-person suggested contribution. The show runs approximately 45 minutes. Parents should ensure that their children are dressed for the weather, as coastal mornings can be chilly. Faery wear is encouraged.

'Musical Cure for the Blue-State Blues' Enters Seventh Smash Month

Mon, 27 Mar 2006 16:49:00 GMT

Approval Ratings - Bush: 32%, BUSH IS BAD: 100%

NEW YORK, NY (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- "BUSH IS BAD: The Musical Cure for the Blue-State Blues," the hilarious, cathartic and unabashedly partisan musical revue by Joshua Rosenblum, is now entering its seventh smash month at The Triad Theatre, 158 West 72nd Street (between Broadway and Columbus), Shrubbery Productions announced today. Originally slated for only eight performances when it began last September, the show extended its run twice due to popular demand, and is now continuing indefinitely, offering Thursday and Friday night performances at 9 PM.

BUSH IS BAD offers catchy tunes, wickedly funny lyrics and scathing impersonations of the president and his dissembling gang of conspirators. Among the best-reviewed new musicals of the season, it has been described as "savvy, uproarious, [and] delicious," with "lyrics that draw blood and melodies that stick in the brain," eliciting "raucous, borderline orgasmic reactions."

*(Photo Caption: [L-R] Cast members Neal Mayer, Kate Baldwin and Michael McCoy.)

How do you write a song about the 3 o'clock scandal for a 9 o'clock curtain?

Composer/lyricist Josh Rosenblum, who also accompanies his three-person cast on piano, has been committed, from the first, to updating the material as needed.

"The model for the show was always 'Forbidden Broadway meets The Daily Show," says Rosenblum. "But while Forbidden Broadway has the entire season to nail down its satire, and Jon Stewart doesn't have to set the day's atrocities to music, I have to take a breaking news event and turn it into a song while the scandal is still hot. Then the performers have to learn it. It's a particular challenge, and so far, we've been able to meet it."

In the last few weeks, BUSH IS BAD has seen new material sending up the wire-tapping scandal, Jack Abramoff's indictment, Harry Whittington and the port scandal. In addition, BUSH IS BAD has recently featured guest speaker Jack Huberman, author of Bushit, and "Billionaires for Bush," the infamous political street theater organization that satirically purports to support the President because of his corporation-friendly policies, who staged a mock protest rally outside the theater.
The best-selling original cast recording is available on CD at Tower Records and online at amazon.com, footlight.com and towerrecords.com.

BUSH IS BAD stars Kate Baldwin, Neal Mayer and Michael McCoy, and is directed and choreographed by Gary Slavin with musical direction by Rosenblum. Costumes are by Anne Auberjonois, with lighting and sound by Tonya Pierre. BUSH IS BAD plays Thursday and Friday nights at 9:00 p.m. at The Triad Theatre, 158 West 72nd Street (between Broadway and Columbus). Check http://www.theatermania.com or call 212-352-3101 for schedule information and tickets. Tickets are $25 with a $12 minimum.

Renowned Jazz Bassist Jay Leonhart in San Francisco for One-Man-One-Bass Show

Tue, 21 Mar 2006 22:51:00 GMT

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- He has played behind everyone from Judy Garland and Frank Sinatra to Carly Simon and Sting and now the three-time NARAS Most Valuable Bassist, Jay Leonhart (www.jayleonhart.com), will play in his own humorous, one-man (one-bass) jazz cabaret show at The Empire Plush Room at the York Hotel in San Francisco, April 14-16.

Holding forth on-stage with only his bass and his remarkably supple voice, with a lifetime of trenchant observations and poignant, carefully etched vignettes at his disposal, Jay Leonhart triumphs in a one-man show critics have lauded for its "wry, witty, and wonderful lyrics" (The Washington Post), "a whimsical imagination combined with artfully understated musical virtuosity" (The Los Angeles Times), and "craftsmanship so seamless that casual observers often fail to grasp its immensity" (Jazz Times).

*(Photo Caption: "Jay Leonhart and His Bass in One Man San Francisco Jazz Show." Credit: David Kerzner.)

Described by one critic as "the Fred Astaire of jazz," Jay Leonhart combines a smoothly swinging jazz sensibility with storytelling of a decidedly clever and insightful nature, making the most of a casual air-flight encounter with Leonard Bernstein ("Soon we're chatting, drinking, talking, like the very best of pals / Talking music, life, and art, death, and root canals") or celebrating a comical surprise ( on keeping dogs away from the bass, he reminds the listener, "they're made of wood, you know").

Whether contemplating the wonders of the Wonder Bra or marveling at his wife's long-held secrets (as a girl she saw the Dodgers play at Ebbets Field), Jay Leonhart draws on a lifetime of experience as a jazz bassist and composer of the highest caliber and a close observer of life's many amusements and follies (his innately clever nature named him "Class Wit" in high school).

A first-call jazz bassist who has played behind, and toured with, some of the biggest names in jazz, including Duke Ellington, Peggy Lee, Tony Bennett, Gerry Mulligan, Jim Hall, Mel Torme, Marian McPartland, and the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Big Band Orchestra, Jay Leonhart is also an accomplished vocalist, composer, and bandleader who has recorded more than 15 of his own albums.

Among those releases are the recent Rodgers & Leonhart, a tribute to lyricist Richard Rodgers, and Cool, a jazz trio outing that critics have described as "an album awash in colorful arrangements" (All About Jazz) and a "bop masterpiece" (All Music Guide).

In a one-man performance that combines the hip swing of intimate, cocktail-hour jazz with the finely honed skills of stand-up comedy and comedic storytelling -- think of a modern-day Will Rogers, only replace the lariat with a bass -- Jay Leonhart brings to the stage a deeply humorous perspective on daily life that is effortlessly combined with singing, playing, and songwriting that achieve the highest levels of accomplished jazz artistry. It's a show not to miss.

More information about Jay Leonhart: http://www.jayleonhart.com