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 THE END OF AN ERA!
It looks like the cabaret at Danny’s Skylight Room will exist only in our memories… Danny is in the process of selling the entire building, which probably means I will be looking for a new location for “Spotlight Nights,” my client showcases. These shows have been continuously presented in various locations since 1980, and I’m sure we’ll find a new home. I’m still hoping that the new owners of Danny’s — or whatever they will call it — will keep the cabaret and restaurant intact. We’ll see. We have two more shows scheduled at Danny’s, on Friday October 20th at 6:00 and 9:00. Hope you can make it. (Reservations 212-265-8133).
I was considering making my final date at Danny’s (Friday, December 1st) an “Open Microphone” night. Anyone who has ever performed with me at Danny’s would be welcome to come up on stage and sing a couple of songs. No rehearsal, casual atmosphere, just a fun evening for the singers and the audience. Singers and non-singers, both young and not-so-young will have a blast. I’ll need to hear from you to let me know if you’re interested. If enough people want to participate, I’ll schedule it. |
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| SPRING LAKE BENEFIT 2006 |
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Curtain Call: (L-R) Ryan Boda, Dana Delisa, Matthew Gumley, Stephanie Iannarino,
Samantha Pollino, Ashley Wallace, Jeannette Bayardelle, Steve Konopelski,
and host Don Criqui. I'm in the orchestra pit. |
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For several years I’ve had the pleasure of providing piano accompaniment for agent Nancy Carson’s show, “Paint the Town to Paint the Church.” Proceeds from the performance benefit the restoration of the lovely historical Church of Holy Trinity, in the center of Spring Lake, NJ
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 I’ve never been to Texas, but I’ll be heading to Houston twice in the next two months. First, I’ll be proudly seeing client Stephanie Iannarino play the role of Maria in West Side Story at the Theatre Under the Stars. Stephanie came to New York about a year ago from Columbus, Ohio. She will now be getting her Equity card playing a leading role in a major musical. It should be an inspiration to everyone!
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Then, two weeks later, I’ll be back in the Lone Star State to conduct seminars and master classes at Sam Houston State University. So if I’m wearing a ten-gallon hat next time you see me, you’ll know why. |
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UPDATE ON “LIFE AFTER TOMORROW” |
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Many of you have asked about when you’ll finally be able to see this documentary about the lives of “Annie Orphans.” Last month, a free screening was announced for September. Unfortunately, that screening was canceled because they were asked to premiere the film at the Museum of TV and Radio on October 21st. You can order tickets online at the Museum's website, www.mtr.org/events/ss-df.htm or by phone: 212-621-6600, Dial “0” (for operator) weekdays from 12 – 5 pm. |
 The film even includes a few moments of an interview with me. I was only 22 years old when I started playing piano for the original Broadway cast, and it was an amazing opportunity. Last month, at the opening night party for the new Martin Short Broadway musical, Fame Becomes Me, I was able to reconnect with former “orphan” Sarah Jessica Parker, who is featured in “Life After Tomorrow.” |
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I am credited as the musical supervisor for this terrific comedy film written by and starring Jason Fuchs. Pitch was nominated for BEST COMEDY at the 2006 Los Angeles International Short Film Festival. And this is when Pitch will be screening:
Coney Island Film Festival (www.coneyislandfilmfestival.com/)
Saturday, October 7th. 4 pm
West Chester Film Festival (www.westchesterfilmfestival.com/)
Saturday, October 7th. 9:30 pm
Sunday, October 8th. 2:30 pm
Pitch will also be featured at the 2006 Harlem International Film Festival, which will be taking place in Harlem from October 5th-8th. For more information on showtimes and tickets, visit www.harlemfilmfestival.com.
Pitch is also going down under, making its Australian Premiere at the prestigious 2006 Home Brewed International Film Festival on Sunday, October 8th at Lake Crackenback. It will also screen at the Gala Cinema in Warrawong on Saturday, October 14th, and finally at Fox Studios, Sydney on October 19th. |
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Give them a choice!
Whenever possible, it's a good idea to bring two choices for your musical audition's first song, and ask the auditors to choose between them. This will help assure that you're singing what they want to hear, and it gives the people you're auditioning for input into your performance as well. More tips at www.bobmarks.com/tips_auditions.asp |
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Best wishes for a happy and healthy autumn!
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