Roving Pittsburgher Report - Quest for the Woman He Never Knew: A Review of All the Names, Quantum Theatre's April 12th 2015 Performance

Quest for the Woman He Never Knew
Review of All the Names, Quantum Theatre's April 12th 2015 Performance
From:  Roving Pittsburgher Report and PositivePittsburghLiveMagazine.com
Written By:  Stephanie Curtice  |  April 14, 2015

With the sound of every eerie gong, the Quantum Theatre’s world premiere of All the Names kept the audience moving towards the light, falling deeper and deeper into the life and mind of Senhor Jose. In this adaptation of Jose Saramago’s Nobel Prize winning book All the Names, translated by Margaret Jull Costa, we are reminded that everyone has a story. Small objective parts of that story are kept in official records and the rest is in the hearts and minds of those we interact with over time.

He said he must know what happened to her. But it seemed more an obsession. And why her? Of “All the Names?” As a clerk at the National Registry, he had seen millions of names pass by, including celebrity names and information that he personally documented for hobby. But her file with discrepant and missing information, led Senhor Jose, played by James Fitzgerald, on a tangled investigation. It was a quest that would challenge the square introvert’s inner sense of purpose and place in the vast world we live in. Answers led to more questions, and more questions started to cut deep and personal. The line between right and wrong became blurred as he justified abusing his access to official documents and avoided being caught by the stoic Registrar, played by CMU Assistant Professor Cameron Night.

As Senhore Jose’s every decision and indecision is weighed out, his conscience is brought to life by actor and writer Mark Conway Thompson. Senhore Jose’s conscience is always with him, like a shadow. As his quest grows more complicated and he becomes more emotionally entangled, it becomes hard to tell whether it is he or his conscience that is at the helm. Along his journey he meets two women, both played by Point Park Instructor Bridget Connors. In the course of providing leads for his investigation both women ruffle his square demeanor and challenge his emotional frailness. We see into one of the women’s mind by her conscience also being personified, not mistakenly played by the same actor as the Registrar.

Actors playing multiple characters, omnipotent narration, and exaggerated sets that were almost like installation art, skewed the hierarchy of exactly which character’s course we were seeing play out. At times the audience spied down on the characters from second floor balcony. We sat across an oversized desk from the Registrar staring down on us, feeling small, inconsequent, and judged, just as Sehore Jose. Other times we were amidst the journey in a huge dark room transformed into a dreary abandoned school, where a cachophony of ghostly whispers chilled the air and walls were covered with names in chalk of those who had been there before – including mine now.

We walked amongst file boxes and documents seemingly suspended in midair. It transported the audience to a dream state where the line between reality and imagination blurred. The vastness and somewhat disorganization of the national registry poured over into the turmoil and chaos of the characters consciousness and the boundless ether of Senhor Jose’s mind –or even one’s own. A trippy talking ceiling really brought the threshold of sanity into question. Becoming Senhore Jose, some audience members were instructed to sit, sit in his place to hear investigation testimonies. This world premiere adaptation of Jose Saramago’s novel All The Names could not have been so exquisitely brought to life without artistic contributions of several talented people. Quantum’s Artistic Director Karla Boos, and Dramaturge Megan Monaghan Rivas, were committed to bringing this complex story to life. Each member of the small cast was intense and commanding. The masterful scenic design in the original Carnegie Free Library by Barbara Luderowski and Narelle Sissons was technically enhanced with lighting effects by Cindy Limauro; fantastic and engaging multimedia projections by Joe Seamans and enriching sound production by Chris Evans and Sarah Pickett.

After staying for the post performance discussion, some audience members shared that they found the work to be akin to Kafka’s works, filled with loneliness, inner turmoil, and the repressive confinement of societal convention. Artistic Director Karla Boos shared the inspiration and evolution of bringing this story to stage and it was clear that this project was an original and creative passion. And one that paid off. My friend Sandra, who went to the performance with me, said the real life little lambs were a nice touch. It is not your conventional play, it is absolutely excellent. The show is mesmerizing!

Additional Performances:

April 15th - May 2nd  |  8 PM  |  Heinz Hall
For more information and tickets visit quantumtheatre.com

By:  Stephanie Curtice
Good News and Cultural Reporter
PositivelyPittsburghLiveMagazine.com
RovingPittsburgher.blogspot.com
TheNewGirlintheBurgh.blogspot.com
(c) PositivelyPittsburghLiveMagazine.com 2015

Roving Pittsburgher Report, Even Russian Politics in 1866 Can Be Funny, A Review of "Prussia, 1866"

Even Russian Politics in 1866 Can Be Funny, A Review of "Prussia, 1866"

by Megan Grabowski, Good News Reviewer

During the Seven Weeks War, in 1866, a Prussian victory meant many in the Kingdom praised the leaders who paved way for a new state. The Prussian parliamentary influence over the separation of Prussia from Austria and Germany, aided in revolutionizing the principals of the Enlightenment movement.  The social, political, economic and cultural changes encouraged a rapid growth of free thinkers, including women.  These women recognized the occasion to ride the coattails of this Enlightenment, and introduced many of the ideals we identify as fundamentals of feminism.

Prussia: 1866 is written to reflect the primal period of feminism.  

 Playwright Gab Cody vividly captures the essence of the time; the political atmosphere as well as the socio-economic status and religious diversities which commonly gauged the moral compass of females during the depicted time.  Prussia: 1866 offers the audience a twist, telling the story in the manner of comedic farce.

Young Friedrich “Fritz” Nietzsche, played by Drew Palajsa, is studying in the home of his mentor Heinrich Von Klamp, a famous poet, novelist and political force. Fritz is having an affair with Klamp’s wife Mariska, a young seductress played by Laura Lee Brautigam.  Rosemary, played by Cody, is a major influence in the women’s movement and Klamp’s writing assistant. Rosemary exercises her values by interjecting them into Klamp’s popular writing.  Hayley Nielsen stars as the meek, protestant servant, who often draws out laughs from the audience by quoting her father’s interpretation of women, marriage and religion.  Before the end of the play, she too finds herself intertwined in the domestic love triangle. 

 Sam Turich portrays the American Delegate and Rosemary’s secret husband.  The comedic timing between Cody and Turich is noteworthy during the translation scenes.   Another slapstick moment worth mentioning is the hilarious cacophony of absurdity in a final scene; books fly across the stage and the men rapidly undress in the name of Naturalism.  Throughout the performance the characters sexual prowess, interlaced with romanticism, witty dialogue and a mildly bawdy tone had the audience howling in their seats. Furthermore, I would not be submitting an honest review if I failed to mention the brief but instrumental nude scene. Knowing ahead of time there would be nudity in the production, I assumed at some point I would find myself staring at an actor’s breasts.  Without giving any more details away, kudos to Cody for sticking true to the feminist motives that layer this amusing performance. 

Premiering on stage of the Rauh Theater this period piece is enhanced by the talents of Cathleen Crocker- Perry, costume designer, who ensures the cast is dressed in apparel reflecting the time and tone in an authentic style.  Additionally, because the story takes place over the course of just one day, scenic designer Stephanie Mayer- Staley utilizes tall shelves filled with books, long drapes, elegant chaise and pillows as well as multiple doors, for the purpose of burlesque style humor; characters run amuck, wild witticisms frequently soar across stage and characters scheme to manipulate and entrap one another. 

No real background in world history or philosophy is necessary to enjoy Prussia: 1866, just a sound sense of humor and an instrumental respect for funny women and the men who love them.  This is a great show for a date night. 

"Prussia: 1866" runs from February 5 through February 22, 2015.  Information on ticket sales and show times can be found here http://www.pittsburghplayhouse.com/current-season/the-rep.

 Reviewed by Megan Grabowski

Positively Pittsburgh Good News Reviewer, Professional writer, Social-Media Junkie, Community Fundraiser and Pittsburgh Enthusiast.

Roving Pittsburgher Report - Its Not About Keeping Up with the Jones's, It Is About Utilizing Technology to Grow Your Business: 9th Annual PA Business Technology Conference Nov. 13th 2014

Its Not About Keeping Up with the Jones's, It Is About Utilizing Technology to Grow Your Business
Review of the 9th Annual PA Business Technology Conference Nov. 13th 2014
From:  Roving Pittsburgher Report and PositivePittsburghLiveMagazine.com
Written By:  Stephanie Curtice  |  Nov. 15, 2014

You can watch or read a news story almost daily about a new successful company with a new cool idea that they are bringing to fruition with new and innovative technologies almost daily. And as an aspiring entrepreneur one could hear these stories and say oh the stars just aligned for that new company but how can I get my idea off the ground like that? And how will I ever afford to? How can I keep up with the Jone's company when I am struggling with the current technology to even get in the race? Well the Duquesne University Small Business Development Center (SBDC) has the just the right resources to help any company get up and running. On Friday November 13th, 2014 they hosted the 9th Annual PA Business Technology Conference to connect entrepreneurs with technology resources to make their business more competitive, efficient, and accessible.

The conference started with a breakfast and opening remarks from SBDC Director Mary T. McKinney, Ph.D.  She shared about her recent trips to the White House to discuss the Small Business Administration's upcoming initiatives. Then she introduced the opening panel speakers. Sue McMurdy of Endeavor Management started the discussion and day off with a very key point, that it is crucial to make sure that your company's IT efforts and endeavors are truly in sync with your overall business strategy. Doing technology stuff for the sake of having new or whatever reason can be in vain and have a negative impact not only on your bottom line, but effectiveness and efficiency operations too. Companies today depend so much on technology throughout their businesses, her advice was to make sure the use and implementation in your company is getting the thought and planning it is due. Jay Markey of Green Seven Technologies provided a great follow-up with the importance of then protecting all of your digital information and the resources available to do so. His advice was not to put all your digital eggs in one basket; Redundancy when it comes to data storage is like an insurance policy. Indigo Raffel of CCI rounded out the opening discussion with ideas to reduce your business's carbon footprint and the advantages of running a green company.

The conference continued with 3 break-out sessions. Attendees could choose from several workshops on e-commerce, social media, e-mail strategies, marketing with technology, software, and search engine optimization. The first one I went to was "How to Build, Manage & Promote Your Own Do-It-Yourself Website" by Joe Polk of Thirteen Ball. There he covered the all of the basic nuts and bolts of how to actually get a website up and running, including going through many of the the service providers and platforms. His personal insight was very helpful as to which companies to use for what and discerning when you need to consult professionals for advanced website design or coding.

The second session I went to was "Compel and Sell: Content and Calls to Action That Get Results" by Dan Droz of Droz and Associates. He had a very engaging and inspiring presentation that gave attendees a very structured and practical understanding about marketing strategies to implement and the motivations that should be behind them. Sometimes people can think of marketing as superfluous, but Droz made it clear that if everything you do in marketing and business development is done with purpose and leads your customers down a planned path, that path will lead to sales and a repeat customer relationship, which only means more sales. A key component of building relationships with customers is through communication, thus as Droz put it, that makes getting peoples emails like the holy grail. This perfectly teed up my last session choice.

The third session I attended was High-Impact Email Marketing: Best Practices & Winning Strategies by Autumn Edminston of the Edminston Group and Stephen Wayhart of Brandmill. Autumn shared great information about the timing strategies of emailing and automating the process. She is an authorized consultant for Constant Contact, one of the leading companies in email automation services, and showed its advantages of database management, customer segmentation, and analytics. Stephen continued with email content quality and layout. A key caution point he made was to not make emails overly complicated. These days most people are viewing emails on their smart phones, which are obviously smaller than an entire computer screen, and if an email is not well organized and scroll-able it will simply get trashed.

Dr. Anind Dey
Director of Human Compute
Interaction Institute of CMU

Probably most exciting of all was the the keynote speaker Anind Dey Ph.D., Director of the Human Computer Interaction Institute of Carnegie Mellon University. His talk on "Novel Ways You will be Connecting to Our World in the next Five to Ten Years Through Mobile Devices, Gaming and Computers" was packed full of wicked cool ideas of the future that are being developed right here in Pittsburgh, right now. One of the numerous examples of ideas he shared was an on-body computing interface being developed by one of his colleagues at CMU.   Now, as someone who is not in any hard technology industry, the idea of even thinking up some of the things he shared is mind blowing.  But his take away was an important one. In the times we live in, you don't have to be an expert, top to bottom, or even engineer everything yourself if you have an idea. Truly, an idea is all you need to be the next top innovator, because there are boundless and numerous resources to bring your idea to reality.

No conference would be complete without great networking opportunities. The trade show in the afternoon was a great time to check out local technology services and products available to entrepreneurs and small businesses. Many vendors featured great opportunities exclusive to conference attendees. I made several business contacts at this conference and got a lot of great ideas about different products and services to benefit my business and clients.

Upcoming SBDC Events:

First Step: Business Start-up Essentials
Dec. 4, 2014  |  9:30 AM - 12 PM  |  798 Turnpike St, Beaver, PA

Pacific Alliance Exports Event
Dec. 11, 2014  |  9:30 AM - 12 PM  |  Duquesne University, Rockwell Hall Room 505

First Step: Business Start-up Essentials
Dec. 11, 2014  |  1:30 - 4:30 PM  |  Duquesne University, Rockwell Hall

Entrepreneur's Growth Conference 2014
May 15, 2015  |  8:30 AM - 4:30 PM  |  Duquesne University

For More Information Contact:
Duquesne University
Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
sbdc.duq.edu
108 Rockwell Hall 600 Forbes Ave
Pittsburgh, PA 15282-0103
(412) 396-6233  |  duqsbdc@duq.edu
Twitter: @DUSBDC  |  Facebook: Duquesne University SBDC

Written By:  Stephanie Curtice

Good News and Cultural Reporter
PositivelyPittsburghLiveMagazine.com
RovingPittsburgher.blogspot.com
TheNewGirlintheBurgh.blogspot.com
(c) PositivelyPittsburghLiveMagazine.com 2014

Roving Pittsburgher Report - "Once" Not Enough, Must See Again! Review of Once the Musical March 11th 2014 Performance

"Once" Not Enough, Must See Again!
Review of the Once the Musical’s March 11th 2014 Performance
From:  Roving Pittsburgher Report and PositivePittsburghLiveMagazine.com
Written By:  Stephanie Curtice  |  March 12th 2014

From the get-go, Once the Musical had the audience of the Benedum Center captivated and it remained that way the entire performance. Lacking jazz hands, kicklines, hammy acting and spontaneous group song and dance numbers, Once the Musical felt more like an episode of tv sit-com How I Met your Mother peppered with organic radio-worthy music that was somewhere between the style of the Lumineers and Lady Antebellum. It was awesome. I loved it. And you should totally go see it!

Apparently the show is based off of the 2006 movie also called Once, which didn’t fair so well at silver screen box offices. Obviously I didn’t see it. But I’m telling you the musical is terrific. It is a romantic comedy and romantic tragedy in one. Fresh and set present day;  Witty and tender;  If you’ve ever loved, been heartbroken, felt loss, or felt giddy anticipation, you’ll see yourself in the story and music of Once the Musical. Laughter and tears included.

The very organic and intimate feel of the entire production is initiated 15 minutes before the show begins when audience members can join the cast on stage of the Dublin pub set for drinks and music. As audience members are privately asked to take their seats, the cast continues to play another couple of songs and seamlessly transition into the show. The house lights finally go down a solid 10 minutes into the show as the unnamed Czech Girl enters the pub after hearing the moving voice and guitar playing of unnamed Irish Boy.

The typical romantic story unfolds. Stricken by woes of the heart, Boy swears off playing music; classically trained pianist, Girl has Boy fix her Hoover vacuum, Girl helps Boy piece his life back together; annoyed humoring begets a tentative friendship; friendship begets romantic hopes; but there’s always something that complicates things… life, commitment, bad timing. I won’t give away the ending, but will say true love is powerful.  Equally relatable themes are the importance of family and community:  small family business, loss of a parent, the new life as a widow, struggling to advance professionally.

The content of the show was touching, but how it was delivered was unique as well.  Every character plays an instrument.  Not only are they the cast, but the orchestra too.  And to prove it the pub set is lined with framed mirrors, which showcased the piano playing skills of Girl and brought a dimension to the set that pulled you in more.  To create different scenes great lighting was used and encouraged the imagination of the audience, including when they were on top of the set looking out into the ocean.

The whole experience was a fresh take on "going to a Broadway musical" and it was great.  I loved it so much I came home and downloaded the music on itunes and looked up when the show would be in the cities of my parents and siblings and told them that they had to go.  So I'll say to you too, take a break from kicklines and showtunes, not that I don't love me some traditional musicals, this is a show that you don't want to miss!

Additional Performances at the Benedum Center:
Wednesday, March 12th  |  7:30 PM
Thursday, March 13th  |  7:30 PM
Friday, March 14th  |  8 PM
Saturday, March 15th  |  2 PM and 8 PM
Sunday, March 16th  |  1 PM and 6:30 PM

By: Stephanie Curtice

Good News and Cultural Reporter
PositivelyPittsburghLiveMagazine.com
RovingPittsburgher.blogspot.com
TheNewGirlintheBurgh.blogspot.com
(c) PositivelyPittsburghLiveMagazine.com 2014

Roving Pittsburgher Report - A Review of Mamma Mia the Musical Feb. 11th 2014 Performance

A Review of Mamma Mia the SMASH HIT Musical on Feb. 11th 2014
From: Roving Pittsburgher and PositivePittsburghLiveMagazine.com
Written By: JoAnn R. Forrester, Host of Empress of Biz  |  Feb. 12, 2014

(photo courtesy: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust)

Mamma Mia…was Fun! Finger snapping, toe tapping, bouncing up and down in my seat fun…And shades of ABBA did I need that to get me through “the Winter That Will Never End Curse” that some evil Cleveland Browns fans has wished upon us.

Part of the fun of the night was to walk into the theater with people smiling who were ready to celebrate with the music of ABBA. As soon as the first scene opened with Sophie played by Chelsea Williams singing “I have a Dream” the audience was wrapped up and jumping on the Mamma Mia Love Boat as portrayed by ABBA.

The play, Mama Mia is about our favorite theme…Youthful rebellion, Youth Looking for Love, Finding love, Misunderstanding, Separation, (21 years) Love Lost, REUNION, LOVE FOUND and LIVING HAPPILY AFTER all played to the 22 tunes of ABBA.

All the familiar scenes played with youthful energy and a little more sexual dash and innuendo than the movie. I did find myself missing the beautiful background of the Mediterranean Sea and wishing that they had more visual scenery or a video of the sea playing in the background.

(photo courtesy:
Pittsburgh Cultural Trust)

The story of reunion plays well… First starting with the three young girls coming together to celebrate the wedding of Sophie , while the friends of the mother, Donna , played by Georgia Kate Haege arrive to lend their moral support to the marriage of their friends daughter. All soon, young and old friends, become involved in keeping Sophie’s secret. She has found her mother’s dairy and read it…and oh my three possible fathers. So what does she do? She invites all of them to her wedding and figuring that somehow she will know who her Father will invite him to walk her down the aisle. Oh my Days of our Lives soap opera played out on a Greek Island.

The dancing troupe was very energetic and pulled you along in a joyous activity. Love the women who played the older friends, Tanya (Gabrielle Mirabella) and Rosie Carly Sakolove who was a great scene stealer.

And of course the men, Harry Bright (Mark A Harmon), Bill Austin (Michaek Colavolpe) and Sam Carmichael, (Jeff Drushal) all were funny, delicious and amusingly perplexed as they discovered they may be the father of Sophie. All the men played and sung their parts well. Although gotta admit in my heart I was half expecting Pierce Bronson to show up.

When the play ended and the cast came out to take their bows and do the well known encore reprise the audience jumped up as one and was ready to dance and sing to all their favorite ABBA songs. And sing in dance we did. When it ended and we left the theater there were still many humming and singing along as they dance walked out the theater…Good time was had by all.

The PNC Broadway Across American series has itself another hit. We are really fortunate here in the burgh…our theater and art’s team consistently produces hits.

Great show…now if I could just stop singing and tapping my toes to the Mama Mia songs in my heard.

Additional Show Times:
Feb 12 - 13  |  7:30 PM  |  Heinz Hall
Friday, Feb 14  |  8:00 PM  |  Heinz Hall
Saturday, Feb 15  |  2:00 PM and 8:00 PM  |  Heinz Hall
Sunday, Feb 16  |  1:00 PM and 6:30 PM  |  Heinz Hall

JoAnn R. Forrester

Written By: JoAnn R. Forrester
Host of Empress of Biz
Anchor Internet Radio Show on PositivelyPittsburghLiveMagazine.com

JoAnn R. Forrester is co-host of the Empress of Biz Talkcast and co-founder, president and partner in S. I. Business Associates, Small Business Solutions, LLC and Celebrate and Share. She is an entrepreneur, writer, business growth specialist, teacher, columnist and award winning writer. JoAnn specializes in helping small businesses grow and prosper. She is the co-developer of the PRICE IT PERFECT™ cost management system for small business, and has secured over 40 million dollars in loans and investment for her clients.

For more information visit Empress of Biz on PPLmag.com

Posted By: Stephanie Curtice
Good News and Cultural Reporter
PositivelyPittsburghLiveMagazine.com, RovingPittsburgher.blogspot.com, TheNewGirlintheBurgh.blogspot.com
(c) PositivelyPittsburghLiveMagazine.com 2014

Roving Pittsburgher Report - Hip Hop Dance Mashup is Smashup A Review Compagnie Kafig’s Feb. 1st 2014 Performance

Hip Hop Dance Mashup is Smashup
A Review Compagnie Kafig’s Feb. 1st 2014 Performance
From: Roving Pittsburgher and PositivePittsburghLiveMagazine.com
Written By: Stephanie Curtice | Feb. 02, 2014

(photo courtesy: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust)

What do you get when you mix MMA moves and dancing? Or more specifically a dance mashup of Capoeira, Brazilian martial arts, with contemporary and hip hop dancing? An exhilarating and physical dance show by Compagnie Kafig. Choreographed by Mourad Merzouki of France, the 11 member male dance troupe had the packed house of the Byham Theater in aw all night, Feb. 1st.

Compagnie Kafig
(photo courtesy: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust)

The first half of the show was called “Correira,” Portuguese for running. It was a fun exploration of movement about running here, there and every where. Alone, together. Fast and slow. In circles and in place. The show opened with three sets of feet running in the air and as the lights opened more join, others begin circling around fast. The chaos of groups coming and going grew into an amazing display of breaking, popping, locking, waacking, hip-hop, house, Capoeira, and acrobatics, all while running in some way.

The second half was called Agwa, and was a fun piece with tribal-like flare about the fluidity of water. It opened with two dancers navigating around 20 towers of clear plastic cups stacked 3 to 5 feet high, only one fell over. Then with the dashing of the other dancers across the stage they were all scattered. With the spot light on an amazing display of pop and lock dancing by one, the rest of the troupe crawled in the dark setting up the disheveled cups into 15 rows of 20 cups partially filled with water.

Compagnie Kafig
(photo courtesy: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust)

The lights came up and the piece picked up the pace with a dancer doing flips and back handsprings across the stage never hitting a single glass. As the whole group joined in, not a single drop was spilled as they danced, flipped, and crawled around the stage. The glasses were gathered and water combined as part of the dance. Then after the humorous taunting of one dancer, they all appear in clear raincoats almost as if they were the cups. Continuing we saw yet another use of the cups with each dancer reappearing with a stack of 50 - 100 cups, manipulating it like a snake. As the intensity came to a head, literally with a guy breakdance spinning on his head, the glasses all flew into the air and showered down.

With a roaring crowd the troupe, reappeared with an encore of dance solos among the scattered cups. Critics waffle between how to label the dancing of Compagnie Kafig’s as contemporary dance or just street hip-hop. Here’s what I know…. I know I couldn’t do any of the moves they did and practically worked up a sweat just watching them. This show was the most captivating, high-intensity, and fun dance performance I have ever seen. It was a smash!

Upcoming Cultural Shows presented by the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust:
Shen Yun Chinese Dancing | February 19th and 20th | Benedum Center
Soweto Gospel Choir | February 27th | Byham Theater
Celtic Nights | March 6 | Byham Theater

By: Stephanie Curtice
Good News and Cultural Reporter
PositivelyPittsburghLiveMagazine.com
RovingPittsburgher.blogspot.com
TheNewGirlintheBurgh.blogspot.com
(c) PositivelyPittsburghLiveMagazine.com 2014

Roving Pittsburgher Report - B 3 = Bach x Beethoven x Brahms A Review of the PSO’s Jan. 31st 2014 Concert

B ³ = Bach x Beethoven x Brahms

A Review of the PSO’s Jan. 31st 2014 Concert

Manfred Honeck
(photo courtesy: PSO)

Though the opening tune was one that is frequently associated with vampires emerging from their caskets or spooky Halloween scenes, it was no scary start to the Grand Classics concert Friday night at Heinz Hall. Led by conductor and music director Manfred Honeck, the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra played works of three great composers Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms.

The PSO opened with Bach’s “Toccata and Fugue in D minor” for organ, transcribed for orchestra by Leopold Stokowski. Complete with the bombastic but still eerie beginning, the wall of sound was impressive. But it was the intricacy of crazy quick fugal sequences, originally meant for nimble keyboard hands, that was a true test and showcase of precision.

Helene Grimaud
(photo courtesy: PSO)

Sandwiched between Bach and Brahms was Beethoven, the star of the show. Symphony No.4 in B-flat major, Opus 60 opened with swells of dramatic flare and then quickly contrasting, quiet suspenseful passages. The second movement featured a beautifully played clarinet solo by Michael Rusinek! The piece culminated in an exhilarating dance of flurry which is “classic” Beethoven and fun to hear played so well.

The final piece, Concerto No. 1 in D minor for Piano and Orchestra, Opus 15 by Brahms, featured Ms Helene Grimaud of France. Though it features robust orchestration paired with the piano soloist, Gimaud held her own well and was not washed out by the full sound. She also played the rich and expressive solo passages with great skill and brought out the passion filled melodies beautifully.

The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra hit the trifecta with this concert and received a fitting standing ovation from the audience.

Additional Concert Times:
Sunday, February 2nd, 2014 at 2:30 PM

By: Stephanie Curtice
Good News and Cultural Reporter
PositivelyPittsburghLiveMagazine.com
RovingPittsburgher.blogspot.comTheNewGirlintheBurgh.blogspot.com

(c) PositivelyPittsburghLiveMagazine.com 2013

Roving Pittsburgher Report - Freedom to Sing A Review of Ladysmith Black Mambazo's Jan. 29th 2014 Performance

Freedom to Sing
It was cold outside, but inside the Byham Theater hearts and souls were warmed by the tight harmonies, high-kicking energy, and inspiring message of Ladysmith Black Mambazo. The four time Grammy Award winning, singing group from South Africa shared not only their beautiful music and rich culture, but an uplifting message of love, peace, and harmony.

Ladysmith Black Mambazo was formed in the early 1960’s by Joseph Shabalala with the mission of preserving South Africa’s musical and cultural heritages. Maintaining that mission is also a family tradition. Five of the ten current singers are 2nd or 3rd generation family members. And their newest album Always With Us, is a tribute to Nellie Shabalala, Joseph’s late wife and matriarch of the family.

Ladysmith Black Mambazo
(photo credit: Erica Gannett)

They sang in a style called isicathamiya, with origins from Zulu men, who worked far from their homes in mines and factories before 1900. The men would come together in small groups singing in call-and-response about themes ranging from the brutal working conditions and homelessness to the things they missed about from their homeland and dreams for their future.

Now about the kicking… While some of Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s songs are about sad or challenging subjects, the end messages are of hope, perseverance and victory. And those are to be celebrated. In addition to the 4-part acappella singing of beautiful tenor melodies and robust bass harmonies, the isacathamiya style has a strong dance component. The dance moves enrich the story telling of the songs and can also feature dance solos. So, the exuberant high-kicking while singing was a sign of celebration of promise and joy. They also clearly had fun doing it. It was fun and entertaining for the audience too!

To celebrate the life of South African President Nelson Mandela, they sang “Long Walk to Freedom,” which carried the familiar biblical sentiment of “Well done my good and faithful servant.”

They closed their concert with the unifying South African folk song “Shosholoza.” Mandela said, “the song compares the apartheid struggle to the motion of an oncoming train" and that while imprisoned "the singing made the work lighter." Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s music was a moving testament to the power of music to unify people and sustain hope - hope for freedom for all.

By: Stephanie Curtice
Good News and Cultural Reporter
PositivelyPittsburghLiveMagazine.com
TheNewGirlintheBurgh.blogspot.com
(c) PositivelyPittsburghLiveMagazine.com 2013

Roving Pittsburgher Report - Hooray for Hollywood… Music! A Review of the PSO’s Jan. 23rd 2014 Pops Concert

Hooray for Hollywood… Music! 

(photo source: PSO)

If ever you were thinking of dabbling your senses into the world of symphonic music, this would be the concert to do it. But don’t just dabble or dip your toes. Jump in! Take the plunge with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra into the chum filled, shark infested waters of Jaws. This movie music experience is a must-see blockbuster.

It’s not locked in a “Chamber of Secrets” (Harry Potter).  The fact that John Williams is a genius at composing dramatic, emotion-rich music for the big screen that whisks us away. His music has transported movie lovers from beautiful secluded islands overrun with dinosaurs, to the Black Hills of Wyoming and eerie close encounters; from galloping through the battle fields of World War I, to magical lands of wizards, sorcerers, and quiddich matches; and from lost treasure troves in the deserts of Egypt to the outer edges of deep space.

You know the music of John Williams. I’m positive you could even sing it. It’s iconic.  Surely you’ve interrupted a game of Marco Polo, with your hand above your head like a shark fin singing that suspenseful two note motive, Da Dum, Da Dum? Or wielded a light saber to “The Imperial March”?

PSO Resident Conductor
Lawrence Loh

So, unless you’ve been living under a rock, you will recognize every piece in this concert. But in case you do need your movie memory jogged, fear not, because Resident Conductor Lawrence Loh is not your run of the mill orchestra conductor - he has clearly put in his popcorn time. He along with the talented members of the PSO bring to life some of the most memorable cinematic moments of the last 30 years with music from War Horse, Harry Potter, Star Wars, and even gears us up for the upcoming Winter Games with that hopeful spirit evoked by the Olympic Fanfare and Theme.

The powerful and moving music of John Williams takes the movie experience to new heights and leaves viewers with lasting memories. Didn’t you ever camp overnight in your backyard, snacking on Reese’s Pieces and gazing at the stars, wondering if you too could someday have your own ET friend that would zoom back into space to ? I have to think that the boyishly cute, thirty something guy in a dapper grey suit a few rows in front of me did. After intermission he brought back a bag of those tasty candies, which were featured in the 1982 movie, to share with his expecting wife.

The music of these movies has left a lasting impression in our hearts and memories. Taking a moment to look around at the audience Thursday night was like watching a groom watch his bride, as she walks down the aisle. Heinz Hall was filled with beaming smiles, the biggest and cutest smile maybe being that of Conductor Loh. This Olympic gold medal worthy concert is one you don’t want to miss. My review is to not miss this family-friendly Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra Pops concert! It is FUN!!!

Additional Concert Times:
Friday, January 24, 2014 at 8:00 PM
Saturday, January 25, 2014 at 8:00 PM
Sunday, January 26, 2014 at 2:30 PM

By: Stephanie Curtice
Good News Reporter & Contributing Journalist
PositivelyPittsburghLiveMagazine.com
TheNewGirlintheBurgh.blogspot.com
(c) PositivelyPittsburghLiveMagazine.com 2013

Roving Pittsburgher Theatre Review for Shatner Geeks

Shatner's World, We Just Live in It

Review of a Legendary Raconteur

by Good News Reporter, Joanne Quinn-Smith

Even if you are not as one of my associates said to me on an encounter on way out of the theatre, “a Shatner Geek, “you at least have seen him on the Priceline Commercials as the Negotiator.  It is obvious in Shatner’s World: We Just Live in It that he has navigated life with as much gusto as he navigates these commercials.  .  In his show he describes his life growing up in Montreal and reflects on his many acting roles using an assortment of photos and video clips.   He tells many memorable stories and talks a great deal about the affect his role in Star Trek had on his life and career.  His presentation runs a gamut of theatrical talents from corny vaudeville jokes to theatrical pathos and laugh out loud slapstick.  His only prop, “his co-chair” he wields a rolling office chair to wend his way through an interesting life story.  A multi-media presentation with music and video and Star Trek Sound Bites make the show both fast paced and believable truly drawing you into the world of William Shatner.

Through anecdotes, songs, jokes and even some poignant moments, you will experience William Shatner’s phenomenal path from classically trained Shakespearean actor to cultural icon, brilliantly creating the larger-than-life and most important character he has ever played, William Shatner.

Long the butt of many late night talk show jokes, the man is an icon (after all you have to be a success to be fodder for late night comics) Shatner is the first to laugh at himself.  You cannot help but be tickled out loud at the tale of his hilarious encounter with the famous sign language speaking gorilla Koko.  And PETA would be impressed by his empathy for his Saddlebred horse’s experience with “stud service” which is not as glamorous or comfortable as us laymen might think.  But on the brink of sadness at this tale he raced us back to the top of his brilliant humor.

Shatner's World was presented by Cohen and Grigsby Trust Series at the Benedum Center on November 29, 2012.  My thirty year old son and I attended and we are former Star Trek geeks of the Klingon genre still we have a soft spot for the original Star Trek Series Stars.  After all who can discount cultural icons like Spock and Captain Kirk?  Also this is probably the only time I could get my thirty year old son to go a date with his 63 year old mother.

Star Trek fans are serious about the genre of science fiction.  Some fans paid $185.00 for a VIP Ticket

for the ultimate Shatner's World VIP Experience

Package Included:


·         Seat in First 6 Rows

·         Post-show meet and greet with William Shatner

·         Photo opportunity with William Shatner

·         Show poster personally autographed by William Shatner

Friends of ours told us they tried to get the package but it sold out quickly, so Shatner fans who were disappointed, at not getting to visit with him up close and personal, you just have to be quicker next time.

The last lines of the show program are:  “…and no there is nothing this man does not do.”  Well you can imagine that William Shatner wrote his own bio because In Shatner’s World… he truly proves to be a Titan of nature and delivers a spectacular “laugh out loud” performance proving he will go down in theatrical history as a legendary raconteur.

Radio Host and Serial Blogger, Joanne Quinn-Smith is the host of PositivelyPittsburghLive™ Internet Talkcast and TechnoGrannyShow™  On her shows, Joanne has interviewed over 1800 guests.  As an advocate for small Business, she was awarded the National Small Business Administration Journalist of the Year Award.  She is also the publisher of PositivelyPittsburghLiveMagazine.com which is a 2010 National Stevie Award finalist for best Media Website or Blog. PPL Mag features the GOOD NEWS, about Pittsburgh  and is  Pittsburgh’s First internet radio and TV network. PPL Mag attracted 2.25 million visitors last year.  Her radio network has accumulated over one million listeners. The Creative Energy Officer of Dreamweaver Marketing Associates, Joanne also teaches her online media platform building to small businesses in a client personalized, “Web2.0 Gorilla Branding Training™”.  Connect with Joanne at:  http://joannequinnsmith.com