#blue elephant theatre

[thedepthsoffandomminds]

The cold truth

Artful Dodger one shot. Jack Dawkins x fem reader

Before Fagin's return, before Belle, before it all there was y/n. The first woman to break Jack's heart. He kept her portrait in a silver locket, the chain hanging on his bed. One day, long after her operation Belle sits in the hospital going over medical text when Hetty comes into her. Seeing the locket in Belle's hand she tells her the story.

"She was a lovely girl, a nurse here. Odd though because she was married. So many of us live a solitary life but not y/n. She was such a wonderful spirit. I'm convinced she could make the dead dance with her joy. None of us could have known. Jack was the first to notice the changes, they were so small at first. Y/n had always had the most beautiful red hair, it was so thick she could hardly contain it and would have it tied several plates pinned about her head. I remember Jack coming to me one morning, the spirals were gone. It was all chopped off up to her shoulders. Y/n wouldn't tell us what happened.

Then it was the bruises. Poking out of her dress on her neck, her arms you know. She just kept saying she was clumsy, but we spent hours with her and none of us ever saw her even trip. Jack tries to ask her once but she brushed him off.

I don't know if it was her original joy or the subsequent lack of it, but the doctor seemed fixated on her. He needed to know what was happening.

One time he bumped into her, knocking her ribs and the touch sent y/n to the floor. Shocked by the reaction Jack took her aside and checked her over. Y/n had a bruise that covered her whole left side. Angry and red, purple, blue. Still she wouldn't tell us a thing. Jack took it upon himself to look after her. Noting that she would often work a whole day without a bite of food he began making extra lunch and sitting with her.

He would talk about her when she wasn't around. Retelling her jokes and talking of her beauty.

Of course we know now that it was her husband. He cut her hair off with an axe. Said she was too vain about her appearance and a nurse didn't need long hair. The beatings were worse. He would attack her for any little mistakes. Her ribs? That was because she had burnt dinner one night. He was an awful man. We only found out because Jack found her wandering the streets on his way home for the cat and bagpipes. He had kicked her out of their house. I don't remember what for, but Jack found her and he took care of her. By then the only time I saw her happy was when they were sat together. She told him everything and he promised to help her. Said she could have a bed in our nurses quarters. She even appeared happy for a while, the two of em did.

A week or so later she went home to collect her things, convinced her husband would be at work. He wasn't.

She managed to get back here. I'll never know how she made it. One broken leg, a fractured elbow and a knife in her gut. She did though, she came stumbling in. I think I screamed when I saw her. Jack rushed her into the theatre, but this was about a year before you came along. There was nothing he could do with the knife wound. That damn blade was wide enough to take down an elephant. Ripped her up so badly inside. She couldn't breathe and the blood was pouring into her lungs.

Jack tried and tried until she asked him to stop. Exhausted and covered in her blood, Jack was ready to collapse himself. She held tight to his hand and looked into his eyes.

"No, no y/n, you gotta fight this. You can't die." Jack begged her.

"Jack, I have to go. I'm sorry. You can't save me." Her voice was hardly more than a whisper. Jack held on to her. I had hoped his will alone might make God knit her back together. My faith took a knock that day and I'm not afraid to admit it. The look on that boys face when they insisted on taking her away. Tim had to hold him to keep Jack from following her body to the grave.

We all changed after that day. The first time one of our own bad died so brutally. Jack wasn't the same. He threw himself into his work, his competition with Sneed.

You know there are times when he still visits her grave. Maybe that's why he was so desperate to save you, Lady Belle. Jack's poor heart couldn't take another love being ripped away from him. It's a lovely portrait of her. " She finishes by glancing over Belle's shoulder at the lockett.

"he's in prison, so you think, do you think you could take me to her grave?" Belle asks.

It's a small wooden cross with her name carved into it.

"we couldn't afford a real headstone. " Hetty explains. Belle bent to touch the wood, running her fingers over the carved wood.

"What happened to the husband?"

"Got himself hanged for his troubles three weeks after. It took three hours for him to die. Come on now miss we should get you back before you're missed." Hetty reminded her.

"of course. I shall bring y/n flowers tomorrow."

"very good Milady "

[thatsexcpisces]

Random things I associate with each rising sign 💌

Aries rising:

Confidence, sharp eyebrows, being outspoken, lots of tattoos, prominent forehead, going to the gym, frat parties, short temper, courage, impulsive decisions, taking control of a room, finishing in first place, blasting loud music, trusting yourself, traveling

Taurus rising:

Sophisticated taste in restaurants, natural beauty, good food lovers, jewelry, small but full lips, taking good care of plants, healthy hair, clear skin, comfy blankets, offering things to others, bakeries, peace, round faces, soft voices, singing, sleeping in all day

Gemini risings:

Working on a podcast, expressive eyes, funny facial expressions, talking a-mile-a-minute, being the most charming person in the room, thin yet long eyebrows, glasses, being able to talk to anyone, finding the positives in a negative situation, youthful appearance, gossip, Saturday brunch, fairies, pats on the back

Cancer risings:

Pastel-colored clothing, being the support system of the family, gentle hugs, sensitivity, big round faces, glossy eyes, calm voices, hot cocoa, bringing sweet energy to every gathering, empathy, loving animals, silver jewelry, mothers, bright smiles, spring, nice boobs, being kind to outcasts, the ocean, comfort

Leo risings

Self-love, theatre & acting, creativity, baby lions, siren eyes, good taste in fashion, vibrant personalities, gorgeous hair, taking you out for drinks, open to being with anyone, orange & white, cherry-flavored drinks, the beach, karaoke, fancy mirrors, feathered boas, sharp nails that are always done

Virgo risings:

Routines, to-do lists, cleaning the house every Sunday, massages, spa days, ‘clean’ makeup look, soft eyes, face masks, stomach problems, good cooking skills, maturity, color-coded clothes, sunset shades of orange, plants, lavender smells, fresh laundry, delicate jewelry, animal lovers, smooth hair

Libra risings:

Solving conflicts, flirting with everyone, the color pink, smelling good, tulips, easygoing characters, cinnamon rolls, flashy clothes, designer bags, hidden anger issues, carrying snacks everywhere, luscious hair, Regina George, chic flicks, angelic eyes, pearls, long legs, white cats

Scorpio risings:

Living a secret double life, intense stares, red-bottom heels, black eyeliner, purple flowers, heightened intuition, seeing messages in dreams, cigarettes after sex, long hugs, watching movies before going to sleep, headphones on all day, strong perfumes, powerful voices, Halloween, quick comebacks, dirty minded jokes, lace clothes

Sagittarius risings:

Being the funniest person in the room, bright smiles, loud laughs, liked by everyone, elephants, pop-out colors, wisdom, studying at night, traveling the world, defined teeth, strong bodies, dark sense of humor, stylish accessories, not caring what others think, bold lipstick, skiing, reading books to children

Capricorn risings:

Classy & elegant style, hardworking, black sweaters, the newest computer, coffee, nice teeth, tied hair, gold rings, playing golf, money in an envelope, marble tables, hard life, strict parents, gardening, setting rules in every environment, writing down goals, post-it notes, the color green and brown, beautiful houses, poodles

Aquarius risings:

Technology, good social skills, Star Wars, electric blue, individuality, protesting all day, new gadgets, defined jaws, being bored of everyone, writing a blog, music festivals, holographic-themed outfits, reading books, ranting about your favorite show, know-it-alls, hiding how you really feel, Twitter, healthy diets, car dates

Pisces risings:

Painting, sad yet sweet eyes, rewatching the same movie over and over again, sleeping for a long time, reading minds, trauma, taking a walk in the woods, doodling in your notebook, taboo topics, picnics, astral projection, baking on a rainy day, kissing your loved ones, skirts, pretty hair clips, piled up journals, wind, comfy living rooms

[cosmicmote]

To Lovecraft Is to Tune In and Not Drop Out

I need more water and

there's that thing that she said.

Eating keeps us hooked,

its own form of disease.

Digestion can seem so smooth.

Some people consume karma

faster than they can burn it off,

like spiritual calories. That's not how

it works but obesity really grows, funny

how that works. Now we're all asthmatic

or diabetic or cancerific or just dropping dead.

Lives get ended prematurely, in these

social environments, genes get poisoned and

rearranged. Thomas Midgley Jr. was an s.o.b.,

but who isn't these days. I kill insects. Squish, squish.

Spray. Germ carriers maybe, I wish them a better luck

next life time anyways. I don't believe in luck, and wishes are

like unicorns. Sure, there are rhinos, but do you

really want one. What I want is nuclear war and

birds reverting back to dinosaurs. Not just the

woodpeckers. Blue jay pterodactyls swimming

in brominated vegetable oils. Unicorns will probably

remain just as fantasy, similar to Gertrude Stein. A

black unicorn in a French film. Someone named an

elephant after Pablo Picasso, to help ease his troubles,

and gifted it to a prostitute. There wasn't a day from

then on when she didn't find herself shoveling and cursing,

for she knew then she had the luck like Van Gogh's. From the

dresser behind me Mandarava watches, bare breasted. I don't

recall why. I chewed a lot of gum as a kid, left my mark

on a lot of sidewalks and soles. Later I threw in cigarettes.

Now I'm off for meditation, we all get our 15 minutes of

practicing, it's like fame but you're the only person

in the theatre. I always take my shoes off. A show of

respect, or else it's mockery. Flying monkeys they won't

stop bothering you, so it's penitence and off to see

the wizard. You could just learn how to fly.

You're better than a Boeing, we know you that well.

Many people they deserve the el-kabong of the gods, so

that is what they get, a little action and a better luck next

life time. It's nearing 12:30am and I still need more water, why

do I bring this up. From where is this brought upon.

Everything glows under the street lights, outside.

words ©spacetree 2024

[oopsiedaisiesbaby]

What do you think the MOTA boys would get each other for Christmas? Curt, Brady, gale, Rosie, john, etc ?

Oooh Secret Santa ��� I have no reason to make any of these guesses/suggestions, I’m just going with my uncaffeinated word vomit🙌

1. Benny gets Kenny some condoms with a note saying it’s so he doesn’t get Curt pregnant because they need less crazy on base not more. There’s some nice ass work gloves buried under all of them.

2. Blakely gets John a big ass bottle of whiskey and a framed picture of Gale shirtless that no one knows how he got and everyone is very confused when John blushes profusely but he and Blakely both know it’s because of a conversation where John drunkenly admitted he wishes he had a pinup picture of Gale.

3. Brady gets Jack a long weekend pass with a note saying it’s so he can finally get laid and quit being an uptight asshole… everyone is impressed because that takes hellah sway to get but Brady refuses to reveal how he did it.

4. Bubbles gets Hambone a personalized gift basket of his favorite snacks and drinks.

5. Crank gets Gale a book he mentioned being interested in and some fancy ass chocolate that Gale refuses to share with anyone. Not even John.

6. Crosby gets Dougie a thesaurus because he’s tired of hearing his awkward letters to the ladies having zero flair.

7. Curt gets Rosie and he buys him some shirts because Rosie’s grandpa style burns his eyeballs. There’s also a record thrown in Rosie actually likes (do we think it was Kenny or Gale that stuck it in there though?)

8. Dougie gets Curt shoe lifts and booze. Chaos ensues of course.

9. Gale gets Crosby some personalized stationary (Bubbles demands he write a letter to Jean telling her he says hi and that he loves her more than Crosby does immediately) but also a fancy scarf because Gale knows how much Crosby envies his pretty blue scarf.

10. Hambone gets Crank some bizarre, niche snacks from nobody knows where and Crank is very confused but Hambone looks so proud so he pretends to be super grateful.

11. Jack gets Bubbles a weekend pass and his own personalized stationary to start writing Jean. Bubbles internally knows he will never use it to write Jean because he likes being in Crosby’s letters better but he’s grateful.

12. John gets Brady some sweets with a note attached saying it’s to make him less of a Bitter Bitch. There’s also some sheet music and records underneath but he can’t let Little John think he cares too much.

13. Kenny gets Blakely some weird fucked up puzzle that everyone else is like ??? but Blakely loves it!

14. Rosie gets Benny a matching scarf set for him, Meatball, and Brady and Benny mcfucking loses it and makes Brady wear it with them right then and there despite his protests. He also gets him movie tickets to the local theatre and two day passes for him and Brady.

But I raise you… what if they did a white elephant??? I think there would be bloodshed 😈🤣

[droughtofapathy]

"Welcome to the Theatre": Diary of a Broadway Baby

Water for Elephants

March 15, 2024 | Broadway | Imperial Theatre | Evening | Musical | Original | 2H 30M

I saw the Water for Elephants musical on Broadway so now you don't have to. There's a lot I have to say, so let's bullet-point this.

The music is Not Good. Unbelievably trite, not a single memorable song or tune. The lead actress gets two solos, one per act, and while the first is somewhat decent, the second goes in one ear and out the other. The songwriters rhyme 'blue' with...'blue' multiple times.

Book is somehow worse than the music? How is that possible?

Zero chemistry between the leads. Utter lack of burning sexual tension. And I know they're meant to be young, but that lead actress sounds like she's about sixteen.

I felt nothing when it came to book and score. When would-be emotional moments came up (spoiler: upsetting deaths of "beloved" characters), I was totally apathetic because nothing has been done to make me give a fuck about anyone.

We need to make contemporary composers/lyricists study musical theatre again to learn why we have eleven o'clock numbers and what makes an opening number work. This show had none of it. A tepid opener, a flat act one closer, a worse act two opener, and no real climax.

Fucking incredible acrobatics. Like, that's the highlight of this show and the only reason to bother with it. That acrobatic ensemble was doing *everything.*

Puppetry was fine, but considering some of the fantastic designs we've seen in the last few decades, this was child's play. Even the elephant was just okay. (Spoiler: no one rides an elephant at any point.)

I latched onto the singular woman over forty (hell, probably the only one over thirty) in the cast. The peepshow circus lady has a strong Broad voice, and was probably the best vocalist in the show.

I just think it's funny that Gregg Edeleman is starring in a (probably flop) musical at the Imperial Theatre, whose last show was flop Bad Cinderella, starring his ex-wife Carolee Carmello.

And there's a lot more, but I don't have time to write an essay on all the ways this is not a good musical.

Verdict: Enjoyable, But Left No Lasting Impression

A Note on Ratings

If the acrobatics hadn't been as fantastic as they were, this show would have been a slog.

[greensparty]

This Month in History - April

This is quite a month for landmark pop culture anniversaries. Here are some I’m celebrating: 

April 1, 2003: Elephant released

In April 2003, The White Stripes’ 4th album was released. Here is my piece I wrote in 2018. Happy 20th Elephant!

April 3, 1968: 2001: A Space Odyssey opens

In April 1968, Stanley Kubrick’s sci-fi epic was released. Here is my piece I wrote in 2018. A few months after I wrote that piece, I saw it in 70mm at Coolidge Corner Theatre for it’s 50th anniversary and I named it my #1 Movie-Going Event of 2018. Happy 55th 2001!

April 12, 1983: Murmur released

In April 1983, R.E.M.’s debut album was released. Here is my piece I wrote in 2018. Happy 40th Murmer!

April 12, 1988: Even Worse released

In April 1988, Weird Al Yankovic’s 5th studio album was released. The album cover and title was a parody of Michael Jackson’s Bad, and the hit single “Fat” was a parody of “Bad”. Following the “Beat It” parody “Eat It”, Al was able to have a second chance at parodying MJ. Of all of Al’s albums this stands as one of my favorites of his. It is LOL funny without a single curse word or offending anyone. The album closer “Good Old Days” made me laugh so hard I cried many a time. Happy 35th Even Worse.

April 12, 2013: Mosquito released

In April 2013, the Yeah Yeah Yeahs 4th album was released. I named it my #1 Album of 2013. Here is my piece I wrote in 2018. Happy 10 Mosquito!

April 13, 1978: Dawn of the Dead opens

In April 1978, George A. Romero delivered a zombie movie ten years after his landmark Night of the Living Dead. Hands down one of the best sequels ever. Each of Romero’s Dead movies has a social commentary and this one takes on consumerism in a shopping mall. It also spawned the 2004 remake, which is quite a worthy remake, even though it can’t hold a candle to the original (I got both DVDs sitting next to each other in my movie collection). Happy 45th DOTD!

April 14, 1983: Let’s Dance released

In April 1983, David Bowie’s 15th album was released. He had been releasing albums since the late 60s, but this new one produced with Nile Rodgers fit right in with the new wave dance pop of that era. It also features then unknown guitarist Stevie Ray Vaughan on guitar. This album was my intro to Bowie (this and the next album’s “Blue Jean”), but upon discovering Bowie’s 70s work, this album might not be as revolutionary as Ziggy Stardust or Hunky Dory, but I’d easily rank this in my Top 5 Bowie Albums based on the sheer amount of 5 star hits. Happy 40th Let’s Dance!

April 20, 1993: Get a Grip released

In April 1993, Aerosmith’s 11th album was released. Here is my piece I wrote in 2018. Happy 30th Get a Grip!

April 21, 1978: I Wanna Hold Your Hand opens

In April 1978, Robert Zemeckis’s debut film was released. In 2017, my short film The Beatles Boston played at the Mendon Twin Drive-In between I Wanna Hold Your Hand and A Hard Day’s Night. I was truly honored! Here is my piece I wrote in 2018. Happy 45th IWHYH!

April 23, 1993: Who’s the Man? opens

In April 1993, Ted Demme’s debut feature film was released. Here is my piece I wrote in 2018. Happy 30th WTM!

April 29, 1983: Valley Girl opens

In April 1983, one of my favorite 80s teen movies was released. Here is my piece I wrote in 2018 and here is my blu-ray review from 2018. Happy 40th Valley Girl!

April 29, 2003: Fever to Tell released

Speaking of YYY, their debut album was released in April 2003. Here is my piece I wrote in 2013. Happy 20th Fever to Tell!

[onlydances]

jean was well aware that a long distance relationship had its benefits and drawbacks. theo was in santa fe living it up and trying to make his dreams come true with this regional production, and here jean was. back in mountain valley living out the rest of her senior year. for the most part, they were making do with nightly face time calls and texts throughout the day. but there was an elephant in the room that was in the form of a big senior event come april: prom.

she had been asked time and time again by her family, friends, and teachers if theo was going to be coming into town for prom. to which, she always had the same answer. a little laugh and a proud grin as she boasted that her boyfriend was busy with his big time show and that he sends his love. that she was just going with pals and enjoy the night. but the more she told that story? she admittedly got more and more bummed out. she had missed out in the winter-spring musical by breaking her foot. and now she felt like she was missing out on another vital part of her senior year. she fully understood why he couldn't come, but she still wanted to just slow dance with her boyfriend.

she had promised the day of prom that she'd send pictures to theo of her all dressed up in her dusty blue gown and her hair and make up done. he had sent back a loving message of how pretty she looked, and she felt her heart squeeze with both warmth and longing. no. she wasn't going to let how much she missed him ruin her night.

she tried not to think too much of it as the theatre kids got together to take pictures and eat cheesecake factory for dinner. she noticed a buzz amongst the group that she felt was a little off, but she tried not to say anything about it. maybe it was just her mood throwing the whole thing off, but she was feeling left out by whatever was being whispered about.

as they were leaving the cheesecake factory, she noticed the murmurs turn more hushed and excited in front of her, and she lifted her gaze to see the last person she expected waiting for her in the parking lot. theo standing there with a single rose in hand, leaning against his prius. he was wearing a tux with a matching dusty blue tie, and she could have sworn that her heart nearly exploded out of her chest at the sight of him.

a grin slowly crept across her lips as her browns began to burn, a string of excited giggles escaping her lips as she picked up the skirt of her dress to run across to close the gap between them. her arms threw around his tall frame as she buried her head in his chest for a moment. the scent of his cologne overwhelmed her, proving his presence. " you're here! " she squealed, the laughter bubbling over as she tossed her head back. she was absolutely beaming as she lifted her gaze up to @santafeilure. " how are you here?! "

flower, sender gives receiver a flower.

[hellotravel01]

Things To Be Cherished in Bali, Indonesia

Party at the World’s Best Beach Club

Finns Beach Club, a seven-day party haven, is a testament to Bali's vibrant nightlife. It is a place where the fun never stops, and the energy is infectious. Whether you are a party animal or just looking to let loose, this is the place to be. 

Play with Sumatran Elephants at Bali Zoo

At Bali Zoo, you can have elephant mud fun. Also, you can see roaming deer, Sumatran Tiger, Komodo Dragon, etc. Spending a day with endangered species and animals will give you an extraordinary experience of visiting Bali.

Stay at Overwater Bungalows

The best Bali overwater bungalows are here to make your trip memorable. Yes, you can have a happy stay at Water Villa in Bali and experience living on blue water—it is the rarest thing you can get. Bali will also give you the chance to chill out at the best overwater bungalows.

Soak Up Some Rays at Thomas Beach

At Thomas Beach, you can have fun in the cool ocean air and soak up some rays. You can also enjoy cocktails at glamorous dining. Wild water sports are also available to make your Bali trip adventurous.

Get Familiar with Indonesia’s Rich Culture Through A Theatre Show

Your Bali trip is incomplete without getting familiar with its rich culture, which includes stunning cultural dances, puppetry, aerial acrobatics, and more. You can book your tickets for 60-minute shows that reflect the culture of Indonesia in the best way.

Chasing Bali’s Best Waterfalls

All types of Bali tour packages include visits to the best waterfalls, which are accessible by jumping and swimming. You can put on lifejackets and swim. It is an adventurous activity that you must enjoy on your Bali trip.

Waterbom at Asia’s Best Waterpark

Apart from beaches, you can have some fun at Asia’s best waterpark. Head to Waterbomb and make your Bali trip memorable. This hour-long activity will fill your heart with joy and your body and soul with high energy.

So, these are the mandatory things you should do on your Bali trip. These activities are full of fun and adventure. They make you enjoy every moment at your favourite holiday destination. If you are a just married couple, you can enjoy couplehood by having all this fun together.

[tenaciouspostfun]

The Notebook. Theater Review.

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"The Notebook" is based on the 1996 novel of the same name by Nicholas Sparks. The 2004 movie was directed by Nick Cassavetes, from a screenplay by Jeremy Leven and Jan Sardi. In its current Broadway production, the book is by Bekah Brunstetter and the music and lyrics is by Ingrid Michaelson.

The musical has two directors: four time Tony nominee Michael Greif and Schele Williams who is making a Broadway debut. Williams is also going to be directing the highly anticipated "The Wiz" which is opening in April.

In the current musical we get three Noah's and three Allie's... younger, middle and older. For the most part the six are good; I thought that the younger Allie (Jordan Tyson) was woefully miscast. Where Allie came from money, was a proper girl, this younger Allie ex-hued none of that. More like an inner city persona, Tyson was just not believable.

In Brett J. Banakis gorgeous set design we get a wonderful slide movement throughout the two hours fifteen minutes.Equally as effective is the sound by Nevin Steinberg and the costumes by Paloma Young. The effective orange and blue lighting by Ben Stanton too made the mood well in tune with the plot.

The musical for the most part was very similar to the movie, two young people fall deeply in love with one another and even though ten years has gone by, they never stop thinking of each other. The key to the musicals success is that the three different sets of Noah and Allie need to all be effective. Whereas Maryann Plunkett as the elder and Dorian Harewood as the husband are excellent, we get the best interaction between Joy Woods and Ryan Vasquez, the middle aged actors; their singing and body language is captivating. The two are silky smooth on stage! Even though John Cardoza holds up his end as the younger Noah, it is Tyson who is an anchor around his neck. Even though Tyson has a very good singing voice, her Broadway debut falls flat.

The two opening scenes, both first act and second act fire on all cylinders. It is the second act, however, where this show excels. The songs, the pace and the story all come together nicely. Songs like "We Have To Try", "Forever", "It's Not Easy", "I Know" and "Coda" were all well sung songs; the lyrics too were catchy and fit the moment of the plot. The first act too had some nice songs: "Time", "Leave The Light On", "If This Is Love" were most memorable. Having some great moments in the first act, it still didn't compare the the afternoons second act.

For the romantics out there, "The Notebook" is for the most part an entertaining show. The choreography (Katie Spelman) is underwhelming, as is some of the ensemble cast. Allie's parents: Andrea Burns and Charles E. Wallace are not moving in their parts. Burns was much more effective in her role as nurse Lori.Neither actor brought depth as parents to Allie, they were mostly robotic and aloof.

.....................................................................................................................

Next up is Water for Elephants at The Imperial Theatre. This musical is based on the circus and maybe a real sleeper when it comes a show that may just wow the audience.

Since many good shows have opened but unexpectedly closed in a rather quick fashion (Spamelot, Days of Wine and Roses, Shucked), this musical may surprise to the upside.

It seems that shows that aren't unanimously well received, and in Shucked case was, are closing with not spending much time on the great white way.

#Broadway Bob, #Tony Awards, #The Notebook, #New York City.

Words: 605

[chrisryanspeaks]

Tokyo Police Club Announce Farewell Tour Dates and Share Last Songs

In January, Tokyo Police Club announced their decision to disband following a final farewell tour. The Canadian group has now unveiled the details of this tour, which will conclude with four performances at Toronto's History. Find the tour dates listed below. Additionally, Tokyo Police Club has released their last two tracks, produced by Jesse Turnbull at Toronto's Taurus Recording. The songs, titled “Just a Scratch” and “Catch Me If You Can,” are available for listening below. Tokyo Police Club, comprising vocalist and bassist Dave Monks, guitarist and keyboardist Graham Wright, drummer Greg Alsop, and guitarist Josh Hook, was formed in Ontario in the mid-2000s. The band first caught attention with EPs like A Lesson in Crime and Smith, leading to their debut album, Elephant Shell, in 2008. They subsequently released three more albums: Champ in 2010, Forcefield in 2014, and TPC in 2018. Josh Hook reflected on the journey, saying, "We've been incredibly lucky and honored to share our music and to experience so many personal moments with our fans, from graduations and birthdays to onstage proposals. Seeing familiar faces from our early tours and connecting with so many over nearly two decades is a true privilege. This final tour is the ultimate retirement celebration we could have hoped for. We're profoundly grateful for everyone who has joined us on this incredible journey." 07-04 Ottawa, Ontario - Ottawa Bluesfest 08-01 Halifax, Nova Scotia - Marquee Ballroom 08-03 Saint John, New Brunswick - Area 506 Festival 09-14 Vancouver, British Columbia - Commodore Ballroom 09-17 Calgary, Alberta - The Palace Theatre 09-18 Edmonton, Alberta - Midway Music Hall 09-20 Seattle, WA - The Crocodile 09-21 Portland, OR - Revolution Hall 09-23 San Francisco, CA - August Hall 09-24 Santa Ana, CA - The Observatory 09-25 Los Angeles, CA - The Regent Theater 09-28 San Diego, CA - House of Blues San Diego 09-29 Mesa, AZ - The Nile Theater 10-30 Denver, CO - Summit 11-01 Minneapolis, MN - Varsity Theater 11-02 Madison, WI - Majestic Theatre 11-03 Chicago, IL - House of Blues Chicago 11-05 St. Louis, MO - The Pageant 11-07 Dallas, TX - The Echo Lounge & Music Hall 11-08 San Antonio, TX - Aztec Theatre 11-09 Austin, TX - Emo’s 11-11 Atlanta, GA - Buckhead Theatre 11-12 Charleston, SC - Music Farm 11-14 Washington, D.C. - The Howard Theatre 11-15 Philadelphia, PA - Brooklyn Bowl 11-16 Boston, MA - Paradise Rock Club 11-19 New York, NY - Irving Plaza 11-26 Toronto, Ontario - History * 11-27 Toronto, Ontario - History * 11-28 Toronto, Ontario - History ^ 11-29 Toronto, Ontario - History # Read the full article

[audiofuzz]

Tokyo Police Club Announce Farewell Tour Dates and Share Last Songs

In January, Tokyo Police Club announced their decision to disband following a final farewell tour. The Canadian group has now unveiled the details of this tour, which will conclude with four performances at Toronto's History. Find the tour dates listed below. Additionally, Tokyo Police Club has released their last two tracks, produced by Jesse Turnbull at Toronto's Taurus Recording. The songs, titled “Just a Scratch” and “Catch Me If You Can,” are available for listening below. Tokyo Police Club, comprising vocalist and bassist Dave Monks, guitarist and keyboardist Graham Wright, drummer Greg Alsop, and guitarist Josh Hook, was formed in Ontario in the mid-2000s. The band first caught attention with EPs like A Lesson in Crime and Smith, leading to their debut album, Elephant Shell, in 2008. They subsequently released three more albums: Champ in 2010, Forcefield in 2014, and TPC in 2018. Josh Hook reflected on the journey, saying, "We've been incredibly lucky and honored to share our music and to experience so many personal moments with our fans, from graduations and birthdays to onstage proposals. Seeing familiar faces from our early tours and connecting with so many over nearly two decades is a true privilege. This final tour is the ultimate retirement celebration we could have hoped for. We're profoundly grateful for everyone who has joined us on this incredible journey." 07-04 Ottawa, Ontario - Ottawa Bluesfest 08-01 Halifax, Nova Scotia - Marquee Ballroom 08-03 Saint John, New Brunswick - Area 506 Festival 09-14 Vancouver, British Columbia - Commodore Ballroom 09-17 Calgary, Alberta - The Palace Theatre 09-18 Edmonton, Alberta - Midway Music Hall 09-20 Seattle, WA - The Crocodile 09-21 Portland, OR - Revolution Hall 09-23 San Francisco, CA - August Hall 09-24 Santa Ana, CA - The Observatory 09-25 Los Angeles, CA - The Regent Theater 09-28 San Diego, CA - House of Blues San Diego 09-29 Mesa, AZ - The Nile Theater 10-30 Denver, CO - Summit 11-01 Minneapolis, MN - Varsity Theater 11-02 Madison, WI - Majestic Theatre 11-03 Chicago, IL - House of Blues Chicago 11-05 St. Louis, MO - The Pageant 11-07 Dallas, TX - The Echo Lounge & Music Hall 11-08 San Antonio, TX - Aztec Theatre 11-09 Austin, TX - Emo’s 11-11 Atlanta, GA - Buckhead Theatre 11-12 Charleston, SC - Music Farm 11-14 Washington, D.C. - The Howard Theatre 11-15 Philadelphia, PA - Brooklyn Bowl 11-16 Boston, MA - Paradise Rock Club 11-19 New York, NY - Irving Plaza 11-26 Toronto, Ontario - History * 11-27 Toronto, Ontario - History * 11-28 Toronto, Ontario - History ^ 11-29 Toronto, Ontario - History # Read the full article

[sublimeobservationarcade]

Leader Of The Opposition Banging War Drums

It’s the old story, Leader of the Opposition banging war drums at home and criticising the PM for going out and doing things in the world. When he should be at home mud wrestling with Dutton. Hamas initiated war with Israel and that is Albo’s fault. According to Dutton, Albo should be touring Israel, just like Scomo, instead of wasting his time repairing the China relationship – our major trading partner and the economic elephant in the room. The Libs want to bang the war drums with China and blame the red menace for everything under the bed. Dutton sees himself as a mini Trump, voicing loud opinions on everything.

Dutton Dishing Dirt In Every Direction

The right wing conservatives are pumped up after their win in mobilising distrust and racism to defeat the Voice. Their strategists look to the US for their inspiration. Extreme behaviour is on display in the US political theatre. There are macho displays of posturing for fisticuffs in the senate between the GOP and a teamster union leader. Kevin McCarthy is elbowing fellow congressmen in the kidneys. Is all this physicality brewing because their leaders are doddering old men? Do Americans crave some vigorous walloping instead of all the tremoring they have been forced to observe?

Too Busy To Get Down With Dutton Will we see Peter Dutton threaten to go toe to toe with ‘pretty boy’ Albanese in the chamber?  Albo in the red trunks and ‘the skull’ in blue. Perhaps, the official Chinese introduction, directed at Anthony Albanese, was due to the fact that the American leaders are all so ancient and withered in contrast to the relatively youthful Albo. Xi Jinping may well prefer fresh meat when it comes his dietary requirements. Albo has been hula dancing in the South Pacific and dining at the White House. This globe trotting Aussie is too busy to get down and dirty with Dutton.

Banging On About Bad News At Home Politics is a game, an illusory display of chicanery covered by the media. They call it the Albanese government in a bid to create the impression that Albo has to run the country on his own. Never mind that there is a cabinet full of able ministers and scores of public servants. No, the PM must micro-manage every single issue in the minds of the voters. Wasn’t that the problem with Kevin Rudd? The Leader of the Opposition must complain loudly enough in the news about an errant and irresponsible PM – who should be chained to Australia for the duration. Imagine wasting valuable time fixing the China situation, fixing the South Pacific, and actually trying to fix the AUKUS mess left by the Coalition. No, Peter wants Albo to wrestle in the mud with him over perceived antisemitism. Banging on about bad news at home is the preserve of the Leader of the Opposition. And don’t mention anything about apologising for Robodebt. “Dutton used the occasion to detail a rap sheet of Labor failures. "The wheels are falling off the Albanese government," he declared. The list included deteriorating cost of living, a rise in anti-Semitism, and the mass release of "hardened criminals" from immigration detention. Collectively, the list played to the hip-pocket pain and security fears the Coalition believes many Australians are feeling. For good measure, Dutton also called on the prime minister to cancel his trip to the APEC summit in San Francisco.” (https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-11-16/albanese-dutton-question-time-clash-gaza-israel-high-court/103110052) Fear Mongering Is His M.O. The mass release of hardened criminals – it sounds like a Hollywood movie scene – Escape From Alcatraz or something. When you consider that an Australian woman is murdered by her partner or former partner every week in Australia, I don’t think that 26 million Aussies have a great deal more to worry about on this score. We have plenty to do to fix our own male violence toward women. But it is all about political point scoring for our Pete! Robert Sudha Hamilton is the author of Money Matters: Navigating Credit, Debt, and Financial Freedom.  ©WordsForWeb

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[sophieakatz]

Thursday Thoughts: Becoming a Writer #2 – Playtime and Story Time

I mentioned before that among the Guys – the many colorful plastic toys which lived in my People House – were Disney characters. Disney still sells these sets of toys, around eight or ten characters from a specific movie or franchise together in a box. It’s a great way for a grown-up to make a child feel like they’ve received a ton of toys while only paying the price of one. I loved our Disney Guys. We had the cast of Winnie the Pooh, The Little Mermaid, Pocahontas, 101 Dalmatians, and The Lion King. I remember we also had a Hercules, with one empty fist over his head where my mom had cut his sword off at the hilt. (The Hercules wielding a fish was allowed to keep his fearsome weapon.)

My parents were very hands-on with my siblings and me. I remember sitting on the floor with my mom, the Little Mermaid toys scattered on the hardwood between us, using the toys to act out the movie along with the soundtrack of the movie playing on the CD player. I can still hear my mom doing her best impression of King Triton’s deep voice. We played Dumbo together, too, even though we didn’t have any Dumbo toys; I had more than enough toy elephants, to the point where one of the elephants stood in for Timothy Mouse.

We didn’t watch much TV. My parents would generally limit us to a half hour of “screen time” a day. We listened to Disney stories much more often than we watched them. Our house was full of music and devoid of headphones; whatever we played, we listened and sang to it together. And then there were the Little Golden Books and the “book on tape” versions of Disney movies, which we would all read together.

When we did watch movies, we watched them together, and we talked about them. I don’t remember much from watching Cinderella as a child. It wasn’t one of my parents’ favorites, so we likely only watched it once or twice. The one thing I remember is the scene where the stepsisters rip up Cinderella’s dress, so she can’t go to the ball, and she runs into the backyard and cries. My mother turned to me then and said, “Cinderella could still go to the ball, even without the pretty dress, and the prince would still love her, because love isn’t about pretty dresses.” That’s stuck with me beyond any other memory of watching Disney movies.

When my parents didn’t have time to play with my siblings and me – when there were papers to grade, laundry to fold, or food to put on the table – they often sent us off on a mission: to put on a play. We would retreat to the bedroom and come up with the whole production. It was always something we’d seen or heard before – nursery rhymes like “Humpty Dumpty” and “Old McDonald,” a play we’d seen done on shows like Zoom or Blue’s Clues, or dancing along to the soundtrack of Seussical the Musical or whatever show was making the community theatre rounds at the time. We’d figure out all the details – who would play which character, who would be the narrator (usually me), what costumes or props we needed – and once we’d rehearsed, we would call in our parents to come see the show. One home video includes me at five or six years old telling the camera that “flash photography and video recording ARE allowed at this performance!”

When I became a Show Writer intern with Disney Live Entertainment, I found myself thinking about that home video a lot. Pre-show announcements were a recurring assignment in that role: “The show will begin in five minutes! Please turn off your electronic devices!” and the like. Clearly, at that young age, I had already been exposed to enough theatre to know that such announcements were an essential part of a production. And there I was, writing up those very announcements for the Garden Rocks concert series at Epcot, UP! A Great Bird Adventure at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and many, many more Disney Parks shows.

Which brings me to the second thing I’ve learned about how to be a writer – it’s vital to have opportunities to engage with storytelling. As many opportunities as possible, in as many forms as possible: reading, watching, singing, and playing. It’s equally important to have the opportunity to be the audience as it is to be the storyteller; re-telling the stories you’ve been told is a kind of learning. Being able to replicate how a story is told helps form an understanding of the building blocks of storytelling. This in turn leads to an understanding of how to manipulate these building blocks and make the craft your own. And it’s always a good time to encourage critical thinking – to not only see what’s out there but also talk about why it is the way it is and what could be done differently.

Formal education will come later. Playtime and story time are the writer’s first classrooms.

[parodyroyalle]

lol is this a parody within a parody cuz mecan’ts not laugh 😂😂😂😂

I am going to be a critic and say has this writer gone to a masquerade?!!!

nah we know what paper mache is this from theatre class

Elmer Glue Anyone? Bonds most material.

who needs Journalism school when one has Elmer the Elephant. 

don’t sniff glue ..............sniff clues..........................blue 

[thetheatrereviewer]

[Review:] WEIGHT/WAIT, Blue Elephant Theatre, London.

[Review:] WEIGHT/WAIT, Blue Elephant Theatre, London. “A very entertaining and considerate performance.” 4 ★

Weight/Wait is a very enjoyable performance, offering in its particularity both lighthearted comedy and a certain soreness. Depicting an individual’s struggles with anxiety, this play provides a sense of respite and solidarity but also a unique depiction of a widespread yet vastly misunderstood mental disorder.

Babbling and uttering nonsensical phrases, incessantly shadowing Karen (Katharine…

[centrestagereviews]

Review: Give Me The Sun - Blue Elephant Theatre

Review: Give Me The Sun - Blue Elephant Theatre ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reviewed by @JessFromBristol

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reviewed by Jess McGee ‘Why did we come here? To the UK?’ On Tuesday 12th July I was invited to review ‘Give Me The Sun’ at the Blue Elephant Theatre, Southwark. Directed by award-winning playwright Mamet Leigh, Give Me The Sun covers difficult themes of individual identity in great depth. The play features just two characters, Baba (played by AsoSherabayani) and Bashir (played by…