#diversity dance troupe

[anotterthatlovestoys]

was at target the other day infodumping to my cousin about toys and explained to her that Monster High has new molds with body diversity and I was like "this ones taller, this ones fatter" and she was like SHGDHHGHHHHH SHHH and dragged me to a different aisle (there was nobody in the aisle with us even??)

and I was like fat doesn't have to be a bad word its just a descriptor. and they're not even really fat they're like instagram "thicc" fat. not everyone is stick thin. and she said she felt uncomfortable because the "fatter" character I was talking about was the "only" black one

aka Catty Noir who is just the one with literally black skin

as opposed to any of the other characters with brown skin...

[freesia-writes]

Ch 25: Surrender and Dread

Master List ~~ Previous Chapter ~~ WC: 2.4k

Song: Eleanor Collides - Lifeboats (Official Lyric Video) (youtube.com)

.

The water crashed over the rocks with a steady, soothing roar as Luci reclined beside the river, lifting her water bottle to her lips before tossing it aside and stretching out luxuriously where they’d strewn their towels over the flat stones on the bank. Hunter gazed at the waters, swirling in blue and green hues, then allowed his eyes to drift over her. She folded her arms over her face to block the sun, peeking out at him with one squinty eye.

“It’s not fair that you can get into shape so fast,” she said with a smile, letting out a low whistle as Hunter took his shirt off and rested with his hands behind him. “I mean, are you kidding me? Look at you.” He glanced down, noticing that his soldier physique had indeed returned at a rapid rate, although this was no surprise to him, considering his engineering. The various workouts that they had enjoyed together had challenged him in new ways, allowing him to develop not only his strength and stamina, but his agility, flexibility, and stability as well. It helped that they were always outdoors, too, so his rich brown skin was a deeper tone than it ever had been during the years spent wearing blacks every waking moment. 

“Sorry,” he said, as unapologetically as he could. She laughed, shaking her head and burying it further beneath her arms. “It’s all your fault anyway,” he continued, grinning as she swatted blindly at him. 

“I regret nothing,” she grumbled, lifting one toned leg and flexing her foot back and forth. She’d worn nothing but a swimsuit for their hike, leaving him speechless at her free-spirited comfort in virtually any situation. “But I also have earned a good, solid ‘I told you so’ about the dancing. It took, what, like six lessons and you’ve got all kinds of lustful eyes on you now?” Hunter groaned, rolling his eyes in thorough disbelief, but she continued with a mockingly insistent look on her face, “You might not see it, but I do. But don’t worry, I’ll fight em off. I told you I was scrappy.”

“Thank you.” His sincerity was laced with sarcasm, and she loved every minute of it, lowering her leg back down and touching his foot with hers on the way. 

“You gonna help me with the next series of dance classes?”

“It didn’t sound like you needed a partner for those…” Hunter said, voice constricting a little. 

“Not at the studio,” she said with a smirk. “But maybe I can practice on you at home so I can get the best choreography for the students… Somethin real spicy.” 

“You didn’t get enough practice in your traveling dance troupe? That sounded… similar…”

“Oh it was,” Luci agreed, biting her lip at the thought. “You wouldn’t believe some of the politicians I entertained… It’s amazing how so many people, all wildly different on the outside, can be reduced to most of the same basic urges.”

“You love toying with people, don’t you…”

“Not toying with them,” she corrected quickly, a tinge of indignation in her soft, light voice. “That sounds mean. I love people in all their shapes and sizes. It’s just fun that, at the simplest level, we’re pretty much all the same.” She paused, considering her own philosophy. “But the differences add all the color and flavor! So being able to see both in each person – the common humanity as well as the amazing diversity – makes life a really interesting ride! No pun intended,” she added with a wink. “But yeah, my… insight… did get me a lot of tips and repeat customers. So everyone was happy.”

“Well that’s good.”

“Did I tell you about my Holonet correspondent job?” she asked, sitting up to face him more fully and adjusting her swimsuit top. 

“I don’t think so…” he murmured, furrowing his brow. She’d told him a lot, to be honest, and there were so many stories of random career endeavors and impulsive adventures that he was starting to feel lost in it all. She had a number of tattoos, each with its own tale of meaning (or debauchery), and she’d been across the galaxy almost as much as he had, it seemed, although under very different circumstances. There were more people in her life than he could remember, all referred to with fondness and specific names that he promptly forgot. And she seemed to have more luck than the average individual, having skirted some very precarious situations a number of times. It was getting to the point where he was fairly certain he couldn’t be surprised by anything from her anymore, and somehow that was comforting in itself.

“Okay, so I’m a journalist for the Galactic News Network, based out of Coruscant… I actually still have my apartment there, because it’s such a fun place to visit, and I might take that up again someday cause it was crazy money and lots of weird, awesome people. Anyway, I’m covering this underground Sabacc ring that was increasingly connected with a few crime lords in the area, and I have to go in disguise to try to get chummy with the right people. I get all set with a hidden recorder, some tracking beacons, and a killer outfit, and there I am, in the middle of it all. I thought I was pretty decent at Sabacc… until then… So I lost all my credits immediately, which was how I was supposed to get to the right table… But I had to pivot and use my people skills instead.” She leaned back on her hands, mimicking his position and turning her chin toward the sun, closing her eyes to soak up its warm beams as she continued a colorful tale of flirtation, deception, and drunken confessions that blew up into an entire scandal. “...and I got to write it all!” she finished cheerily. “So that was a fun one. But anyway – we’ve been sitting far too long. Dare you to jump?”

Hunter followed her pointed finger to the waterfall, which was not terribly high but poured into a churning pool below. He couldn’t decide if he felt lazy or just content, but when he caught the inquisitive sparkle in her eye, he was surprised at how willing he felt all of a sudden. Next thing they knew, they were standing on a relatively thin ledge, pressed up against the face of the rock wall with the water tumbling down beside them, and Luci reached a hand out to him, entwining her fingers with his before leaping into the water below and pulling him along. 

They crashed into the pool, tumbling beneath the sheer force of water cascading from above, and after a few strong strokes, they each burst out of the water, gasping for air. Hunter flung his hair back from his forehead, although some tousled chunks still fell across his eyes in the most gloriously attractive and viscerally satisfying manner, and Luci giggled as she swam to where he had waded into a waist-deep eddy where the water was much calmer. He rubbed his face with both hands, turning to smile at her as she stood up beside him, repositioning her swimsuit and dipping in the water one more time to make her hair lay perfectly smooth down her back. 

“Let’s try a flip next time,” she snickered, teasing the water droplets across his chest with a few playful fingers. 

“I think I’m good,” Hunter shook his head, looping an arm around her waist with seemingly lighthearted ease, but his heart was pounding in his chest. She sidled a little closer, straightening the dainty gold chains around her neck before resting her hands on his chest again. Her body pressed against his, wet and warm, and the sensation had a disproportionate impact on him as he pulled her close. 

“You are good,” Luci teased, nestling into his embrace and studying his face with soft eyes. She slowly lifted a hand, cupping the side of his face and brushing a thumb along the curve of his tattooed cheekbone, then lowered her gaze to his lips, flickering back up to his eyes with an unspoken question. Tingles raced through his veins, combined with an exhilaration that goaded him on, and he tilted his head slightly, watching her closely. She touched the tip of his nose with her own, cheeks curving into that disarming smile he’d come to enjoy so much, and then she leaned in a little closer, pressing her lips to his with a feather-light care that made his knees weak. 

How long had it been since he’d been kissed? He had no idea. Cadet shenanigans at 79s, probably. It felt like a different life. And yet here he was, arms wrapped around a beautiful, smart, fun woman whose mouth was gently caressing his own as her long lashes closed in blissful surrender. He could feel every inch of her melted against him as her hand slowly wove its way up the back of his neck, and his eyes fluttered shut as she sighed quietly against his lips. She pulled away for a moment, looking at him with the same delight and surprise that he had on his own face, then she came back for more, tipping her own head to kiss him more passionately this time. 

His nose pressed into her cheek, his fingers splayed across the middle of her back as his arms flexed around her, and his breaths were shallow and irregular as their lips met again and again. A fire was growing in his core, spreading out to his limbs, and as she idly slid one hand down his ribs and stomach, it burst into a full flame. When they finally separated, Hunter had to gasp for air, earning a giggle from Luci as she pinched his cheek fondly. She opened her mouth with a snarky remark, but then closed it, shaking her head minutely to herself and instead beaming at his flushed face. The myriad of emotions in his dark eyes were impossible to sort through, but she forgot them all when he suddenly moved forward more confidently now, cupping her face in both hands and doing his best to avoid being sloppy despite the wave of hunger that washed over him. 

His lips fit around hers, pressing together and coming apart with quiet sounds as her fingernails raked up his back. He pulled back for a breath, then carefully kissed her cheek, her jaw, beneath her ear, the side of her neck. Her skin was so soft, flecked with a few remaining water droplets, and the hint of her perfume was so sweet that his mind was reeling. His heart flipped in his chest, relishing the feeling of her pulse against his lips. She leaned her head to the side, exhaling in utter contentment, and he stopped himself suddenly with a ragged gasp, catching her attention as she looked at him quizzically. 

“Sorry,” he said, his voice far more husky than he’d have hoped as he dropped his hands to his sides and took a step back. “I didn’t mean to–” She put a finger on his lips, a starstruck smile on her face, and shook her head. 

“Nothing to be sorry for, except for stopping,” she said playfully, then surprised him by turning to slowly walk out of the river, flashing a glance back at him over her swaying hips. “But I’m gonna give you a minute to cool off; you look like you need it,” she winked, climbing to their towels with a giggle. 

Hunter stood in the water for a moment longer, rubbing his face again before folding both hands atop his head, staring into the distance in a dreamlike state. He took a deep breath, blowing it out slowly through pursed lips, then followed after her. 

The hike back to town was punctuated with lighthearted conversation and playfulness, and Hunter felt as though he were walking on a cloud. He could still feel her soft, full lips and the curve of her body against his own. It was utterly distracting, causing him to trip a few times, earning gleeful snickers from Luci. When it came time to part ways, she grabbed his hand again, pulling him in close and melting him with those large green eyes that were absolutely full of adoration. His heart leapt into his chest as she gave him a farewell kiss, lingering just a moment longer to give his stomach time to join the internal acrobatics. Then, with a wave and a wink, she was gone.

He continued walking home slowly, taking in the scenery as though seeing it anew. The birds were singing as they dipped and soared on the gentle breeze that rustled through the trees. The salty air carried rich scents of cooking and agriculture from the cozy homes and farms nearby. The soft grass beneath his feet carried on across the swells of the meadows until they gave way to the lush forest, and the walls of his cabin appearing in the clearing ahead was a welcome sight.

Only when he dropped his bag on the table in the entryway, causing a few of the contents to tumble out, did he notice the flashing light on his comm. 

Freezing in his tracks, he felt an icy grip in his chest, followed immediately by waves of anger, confusion, and indignation that washed away the blissful warmth he’d been floating in.

He picked it up and clicked a single button, watching the small light flash a certain pattern of colors, and he didn’t realize he’d clenched his jaw until his teeth ground together, sending a shiver down his spine.

It could just be an animal… Or a friend… But the indoor sensors had been triggered as well… So unless it was the first occasion of breaking and entering that the island had ever seen…

He sighed, dropping the device back to the table as though it were repulsive to him, then headed for his room, fists tight at his sides.

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[fiikaela]

By the Blades We Meet

*mysteriously reappears* *drops a random chapter*

yoo this time we finally get to see and interact with our boi ganondorf more!! Semi-long chapter ig...?

Chapter two if you feel like it; feel free to skip Chapter one since nothing really happens

--

Chapter three

"We sincerely welcome all the leaders of our diverse nation to attend this important meeting. On behalf of our glorious King..."

The snobby, short Hylian's sentence dragged on, saying the most grandiose but empty things that one would ever have the pleasure to listen to. Ganondorf sat at the fancy, unnecessarily long table, boredom already sneaking up his head.

It was such a nuisance to have him--and virtually every other leader of the nations--rush over first thing in the morning only to be greeted with such a pretentious speech. He had set out from the desert before the break of the dawn, bringing a small troupe of close guards. It was so rushed that he didn't even have time to wait around and give that to you himself.

Right, you.

The mysterious young woman whose power and strength not only matched his, but has the formidable potential to overpower him; whose blade might as well cut through his own if he wasn't as careful. His hand trailed over to his chest subconsciously at the thought, the scars from yesterday's fight were gone thanks to a few fairy tonics, but the sting of it was still reminiscent. Someone who could truly match his own power without any help from others... that idea brings such an odd flavor of excitement in his chest. You bring such an odd feeling in his chest.

Plus, you didn't look bad for a Sheikah either.

He'd seen lots of women throughout his lifetime--apart from the fact that he was literally born into a tribe where he's the only male--you probably couldn't be counted as the most physically attractive out of all of them. You are, however, one of the scarce few that had ever piqued his genuine interest. Was it the way you had so confidently faced him as an opponent? Was it the way you had danced your way through all the other fights without breaking a single sweat? Was it the determination and seriousness that seemed to still the air around you once you realized how strong he was? Or was it that fleeting moment as he claimed his victory, his blade pointing at your neck as you looked up to him like he was the one thing you had looked for all your life?

That brief instant of softness that had thawed your stoic expression and melted the sharp look in your eyes... He can't help but to wonder if you'll behave the same way towards a lover: would that momentary gentleness be solidified as a permanent fondness? Would you lean against your lover, with a gentleness that will dissolve every single negativity? His mind wandered, trying to picture it onto your face. A smile that's like the warmth of the sun? A surprise that seem to put stars in your eyes? A blush that dusts even over your sharp ears?

He chewed on that idea, somehow being more fascinated by it than he originally thought. What expressions can he prompt you to make? What would your reaction be, if he were to ask something out of the blue, like your hand in marriage as half a joke? What would your reaction be, if he'd decided to lean just a bit closer, to-

A quiet cough to his right snapped him back to reality. Slightly annoyed, he turned to look at the red shark who had interrupted his--well, he wouldn't necessarily call it a fantasy--his train of thought. The king of the Zora motioned behind him at the servant who was holding something over their extended hands ceremoniously.

Listen. The shark mouthed, nudging his head slightly towards the Hyrulean King, who is slowly standing up from his seat. All the others quickly followed suit, watching him curiously.

"King Ganondorf." The Hyrulean king spoke up, raising one arm to gesture towards Ganondorf, "for that valiant endeavor you had done to protect us from a group of infiltrators the other day, I hereby humbly present you a gift as an honor for your bravery. Please accept it, it would be the most gracious of you."

Oh... it was that time when he defended the king when a group of Yiga Clan barged into the castle. The fight was child's play, they were a bunch of idiots anyways. Even though all Ganondorf did was throwing off the five masked men who jumped on him and proceeded to knock them away with the handle of his own blade, that somehow went past the Hylian king's head who thought it was a "dangerously close assassination attempt". Ganondorf isn't too interested in correct him.

It was quite funny to hear the prideful king of Hyrule spoke so humbly, as if he was scared of Ganondorf. Well, it appears that a lot of people seem to hold him at a high esteem after the news that he was found, apparently, unconscious beside a forest by a passing traveler. He eventually became the king of the Gerudo again for the honor of tradition, but the feared whispered across some of the people didn't go unheard from his ears. It seems that he'd done something bad, but he can't place his hands on exactly what. The majority of his memories were almost wiped clean, with nothing but foggy, blurry scenes that sometimes came to haunt him. Well, that's what he presumed those recurring nightmares to be, like the one staring up at the ceiling of a cave for thousands of years.

It felt so real. He'd felt each day pass by, unable to move, with every second that turned into swirling green and occasional drops of water. Something kept being conjured up inside of him and taken away. He would get bored, so bored he'd started to count the days as time slowly trickled by.

The servant walked over solemnly, handing him something small and heavy. Ganondorf unwrapped the cloth to find a small dagger, heavy with delicate ornaments and designs, lying motionlessly on the servant's outstretched hands.

It is pretty, but utterly useless in battle.

He felt the admiring gazes all across the room, even the usual grumpy Goron leader seemed to look at him in awe. The amount of respect he saw in everyone's eyes were quite foreign, but not unwelcome.

He always got the feeling that he shouldn't be looked up with respect, but fear. It was almost on an instinctual level, incomprehensible to his logical mind, but out of almost a habit. It tugged at something deep inside his head that he can't recall, it felt like war, conflict, euphoria, and rage. All mixed up into a confusing jumble.

All that aside, he took the blade in both hands, and bowed his head. The king said something, and after so much formalities he finally sat down.

Much to his own amusement, his thoughts wandered back to you out of everything. He can't wait for this to be over and return to his home, where he would find you somewhere.

...  ...  ...

You sat on the very top of Gerudo Town, your beloved flute in hand as you watched the last sliver of colors fade into the night. Soft notes flowed off your fingertips, dissolving in the gentle winds of the evening. You can be as lost in the scene as you want, years of practice granting you the convenience of playing pieces automatically without thought.

You seemed to have become some kind of celebrity for challenging the king, all the adults inviting you to drinks and all the little kids surrounding you and asking you to teach them sword techniques. You don't dislike the attention, but you don't like it either. A part of you just wanted to be left alone as a stranger, a part of you wanted to seek out Ganondorf. You aren't sure why, but maybe just to talk about random things or spar once more would suffice. Unfortunately he's out of town for the whole day on some business thing in Hyrule. Busy guy, you thought with a hint of bitterness.

It's just a little boring without him, you supposed.

The melody came to a conclusion, with the stop of the last note you lowered the flute, head slowly whirring out of the trance. Quiet claps sounded, and only then when you snapped your head to that direction you realized that you had an audience who sat right beside you that giant rock.

"Ganondorf?" You almost jumped, not knowing when he came here or when he even came back to town. You had expected some loud commotion and such when the king comes back, but you heard nothing; perhaps you have been too focused on your playing. He smirked at you, clearly satisfied with your reaction.

"Yes, you remembered my name," he said, rolling his eyes jokingly, "congratulations."

You gave him a deadpanned look, "it's not polite to sneak up on someone."

"It is impolite to give no formalities for a king, either." He retorted, cocking a fiery eyebrow at you, his lips curled playfully.

To be honest, it didn't look bad on him.

"Well then, I guess we are both even." You said lightly, turning away to make you sure you accidentally stare.

"Very well. But not even get a warm welcome from my dear opponent?" His huffed, tilting his head down to peer at you.

"Welcome back." You sighed, unsure if it was the same snarky and confident person who had won you in a duel yesterday. He snickered at your exasperated response, a sound that made your heart skip a beat.

"Good girl." He hummed, the eyes boring into you had a weird look you can't name. It's almost testing, but also dark, but it was gone as quickly as it appeared, making you doubt whether it was a trick of the light.

You nodded, slightly caught off guard by this comment. Maybe it's a Gerudo traditional thing to say to someone, you never know.

"So... How was it in Hyrule today? You left awfully early." You started, diverging the conversation before it could go south.

"Ah. I'm glad you asked. Seems like my little bird cares about my sleep schedule?"

Hylia. Does he have to make everything sound so... flirtatious? He studied your expression for a second, before continuing on.

"Just the usual, calling us over for some 'important meeting' but actually the king wanting an active audience." He grinned in his own humor, gaining a small smile from you. "How have you been doing? Not too sore from yesterday, I hope?"

"Nah," you ignored his not-so-clever wordplay, "just hanging around in town."

"Sounds relaxing."

"Sure."

He chuckled at your dry reply. You seemed to relax around him, your shoulders easing off and your legs started to swing lightly over the ledge. For some reason, he finds this version of you to be very endearing.

"By the way, you are not only a talented fighter, you are also a good flautist," he grinned warmly at you, "you should showcase this during our festivals, if you ever feel the desire to, I'm sure my sisters will all enjoy it very much."

"Thanks." You brushed away a strand of hair, slightly flattered by the unexpected compliment. Though to such a flirty person like him, it's probably something he'd do to everyone he meets.

"Though, I won't mind to have you all to myself."

You looked up at him, slightly confused at the lack of context. You saw that that same, almost possessive look flitting over his eyes, then melted back to the glowing amber they were before, making you doubt again if it was a trick of the light. He looked at you expectantly, as if waiting for a response that you had missed. You could also swear that he is now a bit closer to you than before.

"Pardon?" You asked, secretly glad the way the night wind rushed over your ears, relieving the heat that threatened to come up.

"I would be most pleased to enjoy your music a little longer," he gestured to the flute, then back at you with a slightly tip of his head. "Anything you like."

Ah... so he meant the flute, not whatever else you thought you heard. You sighed in relief, raising the instrument to your lips, allowing your hands to take over the melody.

You did not, however, know was that Ganondorf meant exactly what he said. It was more of a little test to see your response, though to his slight disappointment and amusement, you didn't seem to catch the hint. Well, it just means he have to try harder.

The music unwind itself, the airy flute sighed along with the wind. It was a sad tune, almost nostalgic as if he had heard this somewhere before, in a life long forgotten. Your eyes were closed, light tainting your eyelashes as if they were covered in snowflakes. He couldn't help but to stare.

Moonlight bounced off your silvery locks, kissing your features with an otherworldly grace. Your features were, in his words, delicate, but not that fragile kind of delicacy carved by a skilled hand on glass, no. It was the kind of delicacy that held the subtlety that wields both strength and elegance. One that he finds himself to be somehow entranced with.

He may as well have mistaken you for a goddess.

His view shifted to your hands, at the fingers that danced so adeptly over the instrument. A proficiency that can be only sculptured by years of practice, and he admires it so much. Maybe he'll even ask you to teach him someday.

Before either of you know it, the music winded to the last note, you stopped, allowing the silence to linger just a bit longer. You can feel his eyes boring into you this entire time, and for the first time in your life, you aren't sure how to approach it. Did he like the music? Was it too simple of a tune?

"Beautiful. You truly are a wonderful musician."

His breath seemed to tickle your ear as he murmured those words. You felt a shiver running down your spine, the dawning realization of how close you two are washed over you.

You could feel his shoulder brushing against yours, could hear the soft dangling jewels that hang around his toned biceps, could feel the strands of red locks brushing against the thin Gerudo fabric on you. You could almost feel the heat that radiated off his large stature. Your heartbeat quickened, hand instinctively wanting to grab onto your katana.

"You flatter me." You said simply, in an attempt to cover your restlessness.

"On another note--no pun intended-- did you like the gift I sent in earlier today?"

You huffed a small laugh at his joke, feeling the atmosphere relax once more.

Ah, he must be talking about that pretty, unnecessarily heavy ring with a giant ruby fixed in the middle. You even thought of selling it until the guard who handed to you said it was sent by "King Ganondorf, and he hopes that you have had a restful night." Deadpanned, you pocketed that thing in hope of returning it to its sender today. Who does he thing he's joking around with?

"Right, I want to return it to you." You fished around your pockets, handing the ring back to him. "I appreciate your thoughtfulness, however."

"Why?" He tilted his head curiously, "I choose to gift it to you, it is yours to keep, no need to be shy about it." 

You were never the one who loves extravagant gifts anyways. What use would something be, if all it's meant for was to be displayed and showcased for nothing but its appearance?

"It's just... I don't think I'll have much use of this, you know." Since this is inefficient anyways.

"Isn't it beautiful, though?" He took over the ring, twirling it under the moonlight, making the light reflect in all kinds of ways, "if you want me to take back such a nice gift to you, you have to at least give me a convincing reason, hm?"

His voice dropped to a soft purr, you could hear the way his breath sounded, quiet in his chest, which almost vibrated against your shoulder.

"You won't be offended?" Funny, people usually would've either blown up or sulked by now.

"I would be offended if you didn't be honest with me."

You looked at him skeptically, but saw no deceit in those golden eyes.

"It's just quite... impractical, you know. I wouldn't want to wear this ring while I'm holding a sword, a flute, or whatever." You said, "even though I think it's pretty, there's nothing beyond that."

He seems to be chewing on your response. You supposed that he didn't expect your taste to be so low. But honestly, what did he expect?

A hearty laugh boomed from his chest, it rumbled like storm clouds in his chest, giving you a slight jump in its suddenness. You glanced up curiously, hearing the way the gold jingled in his laughter.

"What irony! I just received a similar gift today!" He reached around the other side and pulled out an exquisitely embroidered dagger. It had a golden handle, and a white blade that looks like it's made out of jade. Not to mention the uncountable number of jewels that glimmered in the night like stars. "What do you think?" He asked, you can still hear the smile in his voice.

"Inefficient." You mumbled, which was responded with another laughter and a pat on your back.

"Exactly! That was my first thought as well! What a huge coincidence!"

You laughed awkward along with him, "this looks really expensive, where did you get it?"

"It was a gift by the Hyrulean King. I defended him from a group of Yiga Clans."

Your immediate look of disappointment was golden.

"The Yiga Clan?" You repeated, "must've been a notoriously difficult fight."

He grinned in your sarcasm, giving you an almost appreciative glance, "they are quite the clowns though," he agreed.

"Yeah."

He paused, as if thinking something.

"How about... we both keep our gifts as a memory for this... ironic coincidence?" He nudged your arm lightly, mischief twinkling in his eyes.

Such a witty offer to solve this problem.

"Sure." You mumbled, secretly complimenting him for such a clever idea. You took over the ring and pocketed again, leaning back onto the stone. "But please, no more of this. I don't even know where I can keep it." You added quickly, in case he's getting new ideas of toying with you again.

He chuckled, muttering some assurances that he wouldn't send those anymore.

Maybe it's time to adjust his plans a little bit.

Maybe asking your hand in marriage wouldn't be too much of a joke. He'll just have to see.

--

Thanks for reading!! Sorry im just going erratically about updating this. Absolutely baffled by the support i received on the last one y'all are too kind 😭

i think im getting an interesting direction to where the story would be going (surprisingly). There is a possibility that im going to take the story into a darker turn with him finding out about his past and succumbing to his own desires--with the reader being the catalyst and center to that possessiveness and darkness, but dont take my word for this im not even sure yet :<

OH AND I FINALLY FINISHED TOTK GANONDORF FIGHT IT WAS EPIC FHDSGHJASjFSHJ

[sabastory]

Veni, Vidi, Vixi

A “Closed” sign, haphazardly slapped on to the outside of the front door. Even after hours, life at the Liberalia Lounge remains colorful and lively. Muffled laughter and cheers can be heard from within. Clinks of glasses, squeaks of chairs, the stomps of feet as figures of various sizes dance their troubles away in a flurry of boisterous jubilation. 

“...and we will NOT lay down and die!...”

The warm glow of candles bathe the room in a deep saffron. The flicker of which reflects off the watery eyes of a tall Dragonborn with rich blue scales. His face is youthful, kind yet defiant.

“...in DEATH, we show COMPLIANCE…”

One foot up on a chair, his size makes him easily visible among the diverse crowd of like-minded youths.  

“...Nothin’ changes, and the cycle continues…”

A kenku girl, cowl concealing her sullen green eyes, sits entranced by the speech. Her tea has gotten cold.

“...Now, lads. Tomorrow, we break that cycle!”

Tankards of beer, fists, hats, and more are thrust into the air as a chorus of cheers ring throughout the room. The Dragonborn triumphantly looks around the space and steps down off the chair. A skinny young man shoves a tankard into his hands.

“I daresay your first rousing speech was one for the ages, Milo”.

The Dragonborn takes the drink and looks up at the man. Early 20s, pointed ears poking out from locks of vibrant, golden hair.

“You sure it wasn’t too much? I’m not the best with words”

The man shakes his head with a smile.

“You did a wonderful job, mate. Really riled everyone up. Right, chief?”

He turns to look beyond the mingling crowd at a small figure sitting cross legged on the edge of the bar. They’re gently tuning a guitar, plucking the strings and twisting the pegs with eagle-eyed intent. The figure looks up. A kobold, brown scales and a piercing gaze. They give a tender smile, nodding in approval.

Milo calms down a bit and bashfully looks to the side. 

“Well, I’m just glad he let me. Usually he’s the one who does all the speakin’ and whatnot.”

There’s a pause.

“We’re really doin’ this?”

“The plans are all set up, it’s now or never.”

Another pause.

“Ya know, I never once expected to be a part of somethin’ like this.”

“I don’t think any of us did, but you said it yourself up there. The cycle can’t be broken if nothing is done.”

A cackle of laughter reverberates across the still lively room.

“Besides, you saw what happened at the Degraide. The blueballs are going to be spread thin looking for that little fella. That's why we have to take the chance now.”

Milo looks down at the floor, a million thoughts go through his head, all pounding at the walls of his skull like a troupe of tiny miners.

“I just hope he's okay…”

The man gently puts a hand on Milo’s arm.

“It’s gonna take a lot more than that to bring the little troublemaker down.”

He playfully pats Milo’s face a few times before grabbing his drink and disappearing into the crowd.

Left alone with his thoughts, Milo takes a big swig from the tankard he’s been fiddling with. 

Heir to an estate that no longer exists. The last surviving member of the prestigious Vanderburg family.

Funny where life can take you, he muses to himself.

[denisearef]

The Greatest Showman

"The Greatest Showman" is a musical biopic that follows the rise of P.T. Barnum from a poor, ambitious dreamer to the creator of the world-renowned Barnum & Bailey Circus. Determined to provide a better life for his family and defy societal expectations, Barnum forms a diverse troupe of performers, including acrobats, bearded ladies, and dwarfs, to showcase their unique talents.

● How is the film related to the social context of the country during the film’s production?

Despite coinciding with a period of political polarization and uncertainty in the United States, the release of the film also occurred during a time of heightened discussions and activism surrounding critical issues of social justice, equality, and representation. Released in 2017, "The Greatest Showman" resonated with the prevailing social context in the United States, reflecting the growing calls for inclusivity and diversity at the time.

The film's plot centers around P.T. Barnum's journey to create a spectacle that celebrates the uniqueness and talents of individuals who were marginalized by society. This narrative arc mirrored the increasing focus on inclusivity and acceptance in contemporary American culture. Movements advocating for the rights of minority groups, including racial minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities, were gaining momentum during this time. "The Greatest Showman" tapped into this societal zeitgeist by championing the idea that everyone, regardless of their background or differences, deserves a chance to be celebrated.

●  In what ways are the performance spaces separated from the narrative spaces in the film?    

In "The Greatest Showman," the distinction between performance spaces and narrative spaces is clear, serving to enhance the storytelling and thematic elements of the film. Performance spaces, such as the circus arena or stage performances, are characterized by their vibrant colors, elaborate costumes, and dynamic choreography. These spaces serve as platforms for the characters to express themselves through song and dance, embodying themes of joy, freedom, and self-expression.

On the other hand, narrative spaces, such as P.T. Barnum's home or the boardrooms of wealthy elites, are often depicted with more subdued tones and muted colors. These settings are used to advance the plot and develop the characters' relationships and motivations. They provide a contrast to the spectacle of the performance spaces, grounding the narrative in the realities of the characters' lives.

This juxtaposition between performance and narrative spaces creates a sense of escapism during the performances, while highlighting the characters' struggles and aspirations in their personal lives. It also allows the audience to immerse themselves in the world of the circus while still engaging with the emotional depth of the characters' stories.

●  How is spectacle integrated into the film’s narrative?    

According to Lauren Pattullo in Narrative and spectacle in the Hollywood musical, "there are basically two kinds of musicals when it comes to the relationship between plot and number. There are those which make clear separations between the two… and those which attempt to cement over the rift and present the number ‘naturally’ as part of the plot" (1). In "The Greatest Showman," spectacle is intricately integrated into the film's narrative, following the model of musicals that aim for the seamless fusion of plot and musical numbers. Unlike musicals that distinctly separate the two elements, "The Greatest Showman" presents spectacle as an organic part of the storytelling process.

Throughout the film, each musical number serves a specific narrative purpose, advancing character development, conveying emotions, and reinforcing thematic elements. For example, the energetic "Come Alive" sequence showcases P.T. Barnum's transformation from a struggling man to a successful showman, paralleling his journey of self-discovery and ambition. Similarly, "This Is Me" serves as an anthem of empowerment for the marginalized circus performers, aligning with the film's overarching theme of celebrating diversity and individuality.

●  What is the role of dance and movement in relation to the film’s narrative and spectacle?    

Firstly, dance and movement serve as narrative tools, conveying emotions, motivations, and character development. Throughout the film, choreographed sequences are used to depict pivotal moments in the characters' lives, from P.T. Barnum's rise to fame to the individual struggles of the circus performers. For instance, the fluid movements and expressive choreography in songs like "Rewrite the Stars" convey the complex dynamics of love, desire, and longing between characters, driving the narrative forward and deepening audience engagement.

Additionally, dance and movement are integral components of the film's spectacle, contributing to its visual splendor and theatricality. The elaborate choreography, coupled with vibrant costumes and dynamic staging, creates spectacles that captivate viewers and enhance the overall cinematic experience. Whether it's the gravity-defying acrobatics of the circus acts or the synchronized ensemble numbers, dance and movement elevate the film's spectacle, immersing audiences in the world of the circus.

●  In what ways does impossibility within the film ensure the audience escapes from reality?    

In songs like "The Greatest Show" and "Come Alive," characters spontaneously break into elaborate choreographed performances, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. This integration of spectacle into the narrative allows the audience to be fully immersed in the world of P.T. Barnum's circus, where anything seems possible. Furthermore, the grandeur of the musical numbers, with their vibrant visuals and energetic choreography, creates a sense of awe and wonder.

Another way impossibility is manifested in the film is through the extraordinary performances showcased by the characters. From the acrobatics to the seamless choreography, the spectacle of the circus pushes the boundaries of what is physically possible.

Furthermore, the lavish production design and stylized cinematography contribute to the sense of impossibility within the film. The extravagant costumes, elaborate sets, and vibrant visuals create a heightened sense of fantasy, transporting viewers to a world that feels larger-than-life and enchanting.

Panel discussion questions:

What do you believe is the appeal of musical films like "The Greatest Showman" in today's entertainment landscape?

In your opinion, how does the distinction between musicals that clearly separate plot and musical numbers versus those that seamlessly integrate numbers into the plot impact the overall viewing experience? Do you find that one approach enhances immersion and storytelling more effectively than the other? If so, why?

Works cited:

(1) Pattullo, Lauren. "Narrative and spectacle in the Hollywood musical: contrasting the choreography of Busby Berkeley and Gene Kelly." Research in Dance Education 8, no. 1 (2007): 73-85.Harvard

[alleannaharris]

Today's Black History Month illustration is of Arthur Mitchell, the first African American to become a principal dancer with a major ballet troupe, the New York City Ballet.

Mitchell was born in Harlem in 1934. He attended the High School for the Performing Arts in NYC, and graduated in 1952 with scholarships to the Dunham School and the School of American Ballet.

After high school, Mitchell performed on Broadway in House of Flowers with Geoffrey Holder, Alvin Ailey, and Pearl Bailey.

In 1956, Mitchell was invited to join the New York City Ballet, where he became their only Black dancer. In 1962, he was promoted to principal dancer. He was also the protege of George Balanchine, the co-founder of the School of American Ballet. Balanchine created roles specifically for him, especially in Agon (1957) and A Midsummer Night’s Dream (1962).

Because of the prejudice against Black dancers within ballet and the assassination of MLK Jr, Mitchell became determined to form an all-Black ballet company. In 1969, at the height of the civil rights movement, Mitchell and his former ballet master Karel Shook created the first Black classical ballet company, the Dance Theatre of Harlem. It was an integrated and diverse school, and its associated company made its debut in 1971 at the Guggenheim.

When Mitchell began Dance Theatre of Harlem, Balanchine gave him the rights to several ballets. This gave Mitchell and the Theatre a repertoire of modern classics and a strong base. By 1979, they toured internationally with a repertoire of 46 ballets.

In the 80s, they reached the forefront of the American ballet scene by infusing new life into older works.

Throughout the 90s, Dance Theatre of Harlem broke racial and political boundaries. They were the first American ballet company to perform in Russia after the fall of the Soviet Union and they went on tour to South Africa at the tail end of apartheid.

They challenged racial constructs through sharing their art. The company went on hiatus due to financial difficulties in 2004, but was revived in 2012.

Mitchell has been recognized as a MacArthur Fellow (genius grant) and received the US National Medal of Arts, which is the highest American honor given for achievement in the arts.

I’ll be back tomorrow with another illustration and story!

[unproduciblesmackdown]

via the summer stock show program again:

WRITER'S NOTES by Cheri Steinkellner | Book & Additional Lyrics

How do you begin to adapt a film like Summer Stock into a stage musical?

Close my eyes and remember what I loved about it when I was a little girl, watching it with my cousin Cathy on the Million Dollar Movie every night for a week and twice on the weekend so we could reenact it beat-for-beat at Sunday family dinner. Key memories include: Singing on a tractor, dancing on a newspaper, and a pink painted sky.

Open my eyes, dig out my Judy Garland boxed-set and watch the DVD.

Close my eyes and re-watch the story on an imagined stage, with a diverse cast, contemporary social values, and a fresh storyline to match.

Open my eyes and write that. Then rewrite it. Then re-re-write, until I hit my deadline and can re-re-re-rewrite no more.

About that deadline: I first got the call in October. They needed a designer draft by January, a workshop draft by March, and a rehearsal draft by June for a July opening. That's fast, even for me, and I started my career in TV where you write and produce a new episode every week. But Summer Stock is all about putting on a show in a barn—so we roll up our sleeves, get up early, stay up late, and get the work—and the play—done!

What has changed from the original and what are the challenges of updating a 1950 film for a modern audience? That feel-good feeling of the original movie is still intact, but story, songs, and characters have all changed to be here now.

STORY: When I first signed on, I was given one mandate: No tractor. Heavy farm machinery wouldn't fit on the Goodspeed stage, so there went the film's whole buy-a-tractor/wreck-a-tractor/fix-a-tractor plotline. This opened up space to answer some of my more burning questions:

Why is Falbury farm at risk?

Why can't Joe get his show to Broadway?

How does a farmgirl like Jane suddenly morph into a triple-threat superstar?

And why is she wearing nothing but a tux jacket and fedora in that pink-sky finale?

As I wrote, more questions popped up: What do you do with a wanna-be actress who doesn't wanna rehearse? Why is a Shakespearean matinee idol starring in a musical in a barn? And what happens when you make show-people wake up at sunrise to muck out the stalls? All of these questions are asked—and I hope answered—in song and dance.

SONGS: The film features nine songs. Most contemporary stage musicals have twenty or more. So building out the score was a task. Some of the film's original songs like "Howdy Neighbor" and "Dig for Your Dinner" are repositioned and repurposed to tell our story. "You Wonderful You" and "Get Happy" have gained back-stories. To fill out the rest of the score, I turned to the Public Domain, where old favorites like "The Best Things in Life are Free," "I'm Always Chasing Rainbows," "Some of These Days," "It Had to Be You," and more, could be tailored to sing in our character's voices. Production numbers like "Paper Moon," "Everybody Step," and "June Night" are newly built on tunes that are nearly a century old, but with Doug Besterman's jazzy, brassy, Woody Herman-inspired arrangements, and Donna Feore's dynamic direction and thrilling choreography, they sing and dance like never before.

CHARACTERS: Looking at 1950s characters through a contemporary lens meant making crucial changes, not only in motivation—but in the people we want to see onstage. One challenge was crafting a story to support a diverse cast of characters with intention, authenticity, and care. I found my way in through the U.S. miltary. Special Services began in WWII and was one of the few army units to be racially integrated. I could imagine an ace director/choreographer like Joe Ross working with a gifted writer like Phil Filmore, pulling together a talented troupe of marginalized soldiers, and putting on a show for the troops. But what happens after the war, when they come home and their show can't get a break on Broadway? Hit musicals in 1950—Brigadoon, Guys and Dolls, Call Me Madam—were distinctly homogenous—i.e., white. Historically, it would be nearly a decade before a Black director would helm a Broadway play (Lloyd Richards, A Raisin in the Sun). So now we know what Joe and Phil are up against, and why they need this barn in Connecticut to put on their show. The Falbury family—Jane, Gloria, and Pop—need this show—and these show people—just as much to save their beloved farm from being acquired by a rich and powerful land owner bent on creating her own family legacy. I won't give away how song-and-dance save the day—but in the end, everyone does Get Happy.

What has been your favorite part of writing this musical and what are you most excited about seeing come to life on stage? If I could spend the rest of my writing life putting old songs into new musicals, I'd be one happy writer. Summer Stock is the second musical I've crafted "with" legendary composers like Irving Berlin, Harold Arlen, and Shelton Brooks (the first was Hello! My Baby, Goodspeed 2011). Bringing in these songs my mom taught me and her mom taught her, so my kids and theirs can sing them again, is my dream job—and I can't wait to see this dream cast hit the notes, find the laughs, and take flight like I can't even begin to dream.

[wedding-djhire]

Keeping the Celebration Alive: How to Entertain Your Guests at a Wedding Reception

Introduction:

Your wedding day is a celebration of love, and one of your primary goals is to ensure that your guests have an unforgettable time. At Wedding DJ Hire, we know how to create lasting memories and keep the party going, and are happy to share with you some wedding entertainment tips and tricks!  

Firstly it’s essential to plan entertaining activities for your wedding reception. In this article, we’ll explore creative ways to entertain your guests and make your special day even more remarkable.

1. Music and Dance:

• A great wedding DJ or live musician can set the tone for the entire reception. Ensure a diverse music playlist that caters to various tastes and encourages everyone to hit the dance floor.

• Consider having a dance-off or a “dance your way to the couple” contest to get guests involved.

2. Photo Booth Fun:

• Set up a photo booth with props, toys, backdrops, and instant prints. This provides a fun and interactive way for guests to capture memories.

• Create a scrapbook where guests can leave a copy of their photos along with heartfelt messages.

3. Lawn Games:

• If you have an outdoor wedding or reception, lawn games like croquet, giant Jenga, or ring toss can keep guests entertained during downtime.

• Provide a designated area for these games, complete with seating for spectators.

4. Interactive Food Stations:

• Food can be entertainment too! Consider unique food stations like a sushi bar, ice-cream bar, taco station, or a make-your-own dessert bar.

• Interactive food stations engage guests and add an element of fun to the dining experience.

5. Signature Cocktails:

• Create special cocktails named after you as a couple. This adds a personal touch and gives guests something to talk about.

• You can even offer a “mixology station” where guests can customize their own drinks.

6. Table Games and Trivia:

• Place trivia cards or conversation starters at each table to encourage interaction among guests.

• Board games like Scrabble or crossword puzzles can also be a hit at tables.

7. Live Entertainment:

• Consider hiring additional entertainers like magicians, caricature artists, belly-dancers, or a fire-dancing troupe to provide unique experiences throughout the evening.

• Live entertainment can be an exciting surprise for your guests.

8. Speeches and Toasts:

• Heartfelt and entertaining speeches can be a highlight of the evening. Encourage your selected speakers to share funny anecdotes and warm wishes.

• Keep speeches concise to maintain guest engagement.

9. Surprise Elements:

• Add unexpected surprises to your reception, like a flash mob, acoustic musical performance by a guest - or better yet the bride or groom, choreographed dance by the bridal party or bride or groom, or a surprise fireworks display.

• These unexpected moments will leave a lasting impression on your guests.

10. Late-Night Snacks:

• Offer late-night snacks like pizza slices, mini sliders, or a candy bar to keep energy levels up.

• These snacks can fuel guests for more dancing and festivities.

Conclusion:

Entertaining your guests at a wedding reception isn’t just about music and dancing; it’s about creating a joyful and memorable experience. Mix and match these ideas to suit your style and budget, and don’t be afraid to add your personal touch. With careful planning, your wedding reception will be a delightful celebration that your guests will cherish for years to come.

At Wedding DJ Hire, we help you to come up with unique and exciting ideas to liven up your party - whether it be a wedding, birthday, corporate event or just an excuse to get together, we can make your event an unforgettable one for you and your guests! Visit our website at https://wedding-djhire.com.au/ to hire our best DJs.

[busterkeatonsociety]

#TalkieTuesday or perhaps Not-Talkie Tuesday! Ant & Dec take part in a show-stopping homage, by dance troupe Diversity, to the silents & in particular, Buster Keaton’s “One Week” & “Steamboat Bill, Jr.”

[hazardous-waste-containment]

Whatever its diverse forms, the Nazis defined a Kampfbühne as a “Streitgespräch”—a polemic against the enemy. It was designed partly to “indoctrinate through fun and entertainment,” and partly, in the words of one S.A. leader, to encourage “fighters for the cause to emerge from the masses.” To be sure, the Nazi ideology was presented to the audience, but always in a crude and polemical fashion, quite different, for example, from the majestic liturgy of the Thing theater. The first “Spiel-Trupps” were attached either to the S.A. or to the Hitler Youth, and gave themselves titles like the “Storm Troops” or the “Brown Shirts.” These were enthusiastic groups of amateur actors. Little record remains of their plays, and their theatrical presentations are almost impossible to reconstruct. But as far as we can tell, these fell into two parts: fun and entertainment consisting of folk songs and folk dancing; and a “fighting part,” which presented “contemporary political sketches” (Politische Zeitbilder). Such, for example, was the mixture of fun and action which the “Brown Shirts” of Hesse-Nassau presented as part of the Nazi propaganda program in the city of Wetzlar in 1932. Sometimes such troupes seem to have used tableaux vivantes centered upon stereotypes of bankers, trade unionists, and consumers. For the most part the troupes would march on stage in closed formation, before beginning the songs, dances, and plays.

“Nazi Polemical Theater,” The Fascist Revolution by George Mosse

[lucillebarker]

I asked for chaos today…

And ChatGPT said:

Here's a potential cast for the actors in Better Call Saul in a musical production of Gypsy:

Jimmy McGill/Saul Goodman - Bob Odenkirk as Herbie

Kim Wexler - Rhea Seehorn as Rose

Mike Ehrmantraut - Jonathan Banks as Pop

Chuck McGill - Michael McKean as Uncle Jocko

Howard Hamlin - Patrick Fabian as Tulsa

Nacho Varga - Michael Mando as Yonkers

Lalo Salamanca - Tony Dalton as Jocko Jr.

Gus Fring - Giancarlo Esposito as Mr. Goldstone

Kim's former boss, Rich Schweikart - Dennis Boutsikaris as Cigar

Jimmy's former cellmate, Huell Babineaux - Lavell Crawford as Tessie Tura

Kim's Mesa Verde colleague, Paige Novick - Cara Pifko as Mazeppa

Jimmy's former assistant, Francesca Liddy - Tina Parker as Electra

Jimmy's former law school classmate, Kim's friend, and fellow attorney, Rebecca Bois - Ann Cusack as Miss Cratchitt

In this cast, we see Bob Odenkirk as Herbie, the long-suffering agent and love interest of Rose, who is played by Rhea Seehorn. Jonathan Banks, who plays Mike Ehrmantraut, takes on the role of Pop, one of the three burlesque strippers who teach Rose's daughter to dance. Michael McKean, who plays Chuck McGill, is cast as Uncle Jocko, the owner of the Kiddie Troupe. Patrick Fabian, who plays Howard Hamlin, takes on the role of Tulsa, a dancer who falls for Louise, Rose's daughter.

Michael Mando, who plays Nacho Varga, is cast as Yonkers, another of the burlesque strippers. Tony Dalton, who plays Lalo Salamanca, takes on the role of Jocko Jr., Uncle Jocko's nephew. Giancarlo Esposito, who plays Gus Fring, is cast as Mr. Goldstone, the agent who books the burlesque show. Dennis Boutsikaris, who plays Kim's former boss Rich Schweikart, is cast as Cigar, a producer who hires the strippers.

Lavell Crawford, who plays Jimmy's former cellmate Huell Babineaux, is cast as Tessie Tura, one of the burlesque strippers. Cara Pifko, who plays Kim's Mesa Verde colleague Paige Novick, takes on the role of Mazeppa, another of the strippers. Tina Parker, who plays Jimmy's former assistant Francesca Liddy, is cast as Electra, the third stripper. Finally, Ann Cusack, who plays Jimmy's former law school classmate Rebecca Bois, is cast as Miss Cratchitt, a dance instructor.

Overall, this cast would bring a unique and diverse range of talents to a production of Gypsy, infusing the classic musical with a fresh energy and perspective.

Me: 😐😐😐😐

[downstageent]

Downstage Entertainment: Your Premier Artist Booking Agency in New York

When it comes to organizing memorable events and securing top-tier talent, Downstage Entertainment is the leading Artist Booking Agency in New York. With a strong reputation for professionalism, reliability, and an extensive network of performers, Downstage Entertainment specializes in connecting clients with exceptional talent for a wide range of events, including Dance Shows. Whether you’re planning a corporate event, private party, or public showcase, this New York-based company is your go-to resource for unforgettable entertainment.

Why Choose Downstage Entertainment?

Downstage Entertainment has become a trusted name in New York for artist booking services by consistently exceeding client expectations. Here’s what sets them apart:

1. Extensive Talent Roster: From world-class dancers and choreographers to versatile performers, Downstage Entertainment’s roster includes some of the most talented artists in the industry. Their diverse selection ensures they can match the perfect act to any event theme or requirement.

2. Specialized in Dance Shows: Dance performances add energy, elegance, and excitement to any event. Downstage Entertainment excels in Dance Shows Artist Booking in New York, offering access to an impressive array of dancers, from classical ballet performers to contemporary and cultural dance troupes.

3. Tailored Event Solutions: The team at Downstage Entertainment works closely with clients to understand their vision and tailor artist selections to meet the specific needs of the event. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a large-scale production, their expertise ensures every detail is aligned with your goals.

4. Professionalism and Reliability: With a reputation for seamless service, Downstage Entertainment ensures that every booking process is smooth and hassle-free. They handle logistics, contracts, and coordination, allowing clients to focus on other aspects of their event.

Dance Shows Artist Booking in New York

Dance shows bring vibrancy and creativity to events, making them a popular choice for entertainment in New York. Downstage Entertainment offers unmatched expertise in booking dance performers for a variety of occasions, including:

1. Corporate Events: Energize your company’s gathering with captivating dance performances that leave a lasting impression on clients, employees, and stakeholders.

2. Private Parties: Whether it’s a wedding, birthday, or anniversary celebration, Downstage Entertainment can provide dancers who bring elegance and energy to your special day.

3. Theatrical Productions: Downstage Entertainment collaborates with directors and producers to supply professional dancers for stage productions and live performances.

4. Festivals and Cultural Events: Celebrate diversity and culture with dance performances that showcase traditional and contemporary styles from around the world.

How Downstage Entertainment Enhances Your Event

Partnering with Downstage Entertainment means elevating your event with top-quality performances and unparalleled service. Their dedication to excellence ensures:

1. Customizable Performances: Downstage Entertainment works with clients to create bespoke performances that align with the event’s theme and audience preferences.

2. Experienced Artists: Their roster includes seasoned performers who bring professionalism and charisma to every stage.

3. Effortless Coordination: From booking to performance day, Downstage Entertainment manages all aspects of the artist engagement, ensuring a flawless experience.

Book with Downstage Entertainment Today

For anyone looking to book artists in New York, especially for dance shows, Downstage Entertainment is the trusted partner you need. Their expertise, passion, and dedication to excellence make them the premier Artist Booking Agency in New York.

Elevate your next event with the perfect performance. Contact Downstage Entertainment today to explore their roster and begin planning an unforgettable experience tailored to your needs.

[hbgarts]

Exploring the Vibrant Scene of Harrisburg Performing Arts: A Cultural Haven in Central Pennsylvania

Harrisburg, the capital city of Pennsylvania, is often recognized for its rich history, government buildings, and proximity to natural beauty. However, what may surprise many is the city’s thriving arts scene, particularly when it comes to Harrisburg performing arts. While the city might not be as well-known for its cultural offerings as cities like New York or Philadelphia, Harrisburg is quickly becoming a cultural haven in Central Pennsylvania, boasting a diverse range of performances that cater to all tastes.

From dynamic theater productions to world-class orchestras, dance performances, and comedy shows, Harrisburg performing arts offer something for everyone. Let’s take a closer look at what makes the local arts scene so vibrant and why it's worth exploring.

A Rich History of Artistic Expression

Over the years, Harrisburg performing arts have grown into an integral part of the city’s cultural landscape. The arts have always had a presence in the city, but in recent decades, local theater companies, music ensembles, and dance schools have blossomed into a cultural force that adds character and creativity to the community.

As more residents and visitors embrace the local arts, venues throughout the city are elevating the Harrisburg performing arts experience. Whether it’s the grandeur of a symphony orchestra or an intimate indie theater performance, Harrisburg is proving that it has more to offer in the realm of arts than meets the eye.

The Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts: A Central Hub for Performing Arts

One of the key venues driving Harrisburg performing arts is the Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts. Located in downtown Harrisburg, the Whitaker Center brings together the worlds of science and the arts in one striking building. Within this venue, the Sunoco Performance Theater hosts an array of performances, including concerts, Broadway shows, dance troupes, and educational events.

The Whitaker Center’s accessibility and wide range of performances make it a central destination for both locals and tourists interested in Harrisburg performing arts. The venue frequently features national touring acts, local talent, and even educational programming aimed at cultivating the next generation of artists.

Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra: The Sound of the City

For lovers of classical music, the Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra is an absolute highlight of the city’s performing arts scene. Founded in 1929, the orchestra is one of the oldest and most respected cultural institutions in the region. It performs a mix of classic symphonic works and contemporary pieces, often featuring renowned guest artists from around the world.

The orchestra typically performs at the Forum Auditorium, but its presence in the Harrisburg performing arts community goes beyond just music. The Harrisburg Symphony engages with local schools and community organizations to foster a deeper appreciation for classical music and provide educational opportunities for young musicians.

Gamut Theatre Group: A Showcase for Local Theater Talent

If you enjoy live theater, Harrisburg performing arts would not be complete without a visit to the Gamut Theatre Group. This community-based theater company has become one of the most important voices in the local theater scene. Located in the historic Harrisburg Theatre, Gamut offers a wide range of productions, from Shakespeare to contemporary dramas, comedies, and original works.

Gamut’s dedication to presenting quality performances has made it a favorite for both theater enthusiasts and newcomers to the performing arts. Its interactive and immersive performances make it a unique experience for audiences, further contributing to the rich diversity of Harrisburg performing arts.

Dance and Movement: Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet

Dance plays a key role in the artistic offerings of Harrisburg performing arts, and no company exemplifies this more than the Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet (CPYB). Founded in 1955, CPYB is one of the most respected ballet schools in the region. The ballet school trains young dancers who later go on to perform in some of the most iconic ballet productions, such as The Nutcracker, as well as other classical and contemporary works.

CPYB’s performances are a true highlight of the Harrisburg performing arts scene, and its annual productions bring elegance, creativity, and world-class talent to Central Pennsylvania. For those who appreciate the grace and discipline of ballet, CPYB’s productions are not to be missed.

Comedy and Cabaret: A Different Flavor of Performance

For something more lighthearted, Harrisburg performing arts also offer a variety of comedic performances. Venues like the Harrisburg Comedy Zone host stand-up performances from top comedians, including national acts, while smaller venues like Midtown Cinema provide more intimate comedy experiences and improv shows.

These comedic performances bring a different dimension to the arts scene in Harrisburg, offering laughter and entertainment to those who seek a fun and casual evening out. Whether you're a fan of stand-up or improv comedy, Harrisburg’s comedy scene is a vibrant part of the performing arts landscape.

Festivals and Community Events

The vibrancy of Harrisburg performing arts is most evident during the many festivals and public events held throughout the year. Harrisburg Artsfest is one of the largest and most anticipated events, celebrating local artists, performers, and creators. The festival brings together a community of performers—musicians, dancers, actors, and more—who take to the streets to engage with festival-goers in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.

Events like these showcase the diversity and creativity of the local performing arts community, offering something for everyone to enjoy. Whether it’s an outdoor concert, a dance performance in the park, or a community theater production, **Harrisburg performing arts** thrive during these dynamic events.

Why Harrisburg is Becoming a Cultural Haven

As the capital city of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg has long been an important political and historical center. However, its growing reputation as a hub for performing arts demonstrates a shift toward a more creative and inclusive cultural identity. With a supportive community of artists, an engaged audience, and a wealth of venues and opportunities, Harrisburg is positioned to continue growing as a cultural haven in Central Pennsylvania.

From the sounds of the Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra to the dramatic performances at Gamut Theatre, the city is a rich tapestry of cultural experiences waiting to be discovered. For those looking for a fresh and exciting place to experience performing arts, Harrisburg offers a dynamic and welcoming environment that is only getting better.

Conclusion

The vibrant world of Harrisburg performing arts continues to evolve and impress, offering an abundance of opportunities for both artists and audiences to connect with the arts in new and exciting ways. Whether you’re passionate about theater, music, dance, or comedy, Harrisburg’s arts scene offers something for every taste. As the city’s artistic community grows, it solidifies its place as a cultural haven in Central Pennsylvania. So, next time you’re in the area, be sure to check out what’s happening in the world of Harrisburg performing arts you’ll be amazed by the talent and creativity that’s on display!

[dubaiactivities]

All You Need to Know About Global Village Dubai Experience

Global Village Dubai is a vibrant cultural and entertainment hub that draws millions of visitors each season, showcasing the best of global traditions and innovations. Open from November to April, this unique venue features pavilions representing over 70 countries, each offering authentic food, crafts, and cultural experiences. Visitors can immerse themselves in a world of diversity, where every corner brings new flavours, sights, and sounds, making it an ideal destination for families, friends, and solo adventurers.

In addition to its cultural richness, Global Village is known for its exciting entertainment options, including live performances, thrilling rides, and special events throughout the season. With so much to see and do, planning your visit is essential. Be sure to check the Dubai Global Village tickets for entry prices and special promotions. The Global Village Dubai ticket price is generally affordable, ensuring that visitors can enjoy a full day of fun and exploration without breaking the bank. From shopping for unique souvenirs to savouring international cuisines, Global Village offers an unforgettable experience for everyone.

 Here are some things you need to know about the Global Village Dubai Experience.

Shopping

One of the highlights of Global Village is its extensive shopping opportunities. Visitors can explore thousands of shops and bazaars that offer unique items from around the globe. Whether you're searching for exquisite trinkets, aromatic spices, intricately carved wooden items, or distinctive antiques, the marketplace has something for everyone. The vibrant stalls showcase a wide variety of handicrafts, including handmade jewelry, clothing, and furniture that reflect the culture and artistry of their respective countries.

In addition to traditional crafts, shoppers can also find an array of skincare products and wellness items, many of which are sourced directly from their countries of origin. The shopping experience at Global Village is not just about purchasing goods; it's about discovering the stories and traditions behind each item. As you stroll through the colorful stalls, you can interact with the vendors, learn about their crafts, and even bargain for the best prices, making for an authentic shopping adventure.

Dining

After a day of shopping, visitors can indulge in a culinary journey around the world at Global Village’s diverse dining options. The venue features a wide range of food stalls and restaurants offering authentic street food from various countries, including India, Thailand, Italy, and more. Whether you crave spicy curries, savory dumplings, or sweet treats, the options are endless.

For those looking for a more relaxed dining experience, several small eateries are conveniently located around the picturesque water body that runs through the village. These dining spots provide the perfect ambiance to savor your meal while enjoying the views. Global Village not only caters to different taste buds but also offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, ensuring that everyone can find something delicious to enjoy.

Entertainment

Global Village Dubai is also renowned for its vibrant entertainment scene. The venue hosts a plethora of live shows, cultural performances, and spectacular fireworks displays throughout the season. Visitors can enjoy performances from the Urban Crew dance troupe, featuring high-energy dance routines that entertain audiences of all ages. Other thrilling acts, like Circus Circus and the Amazing Clowns, provide a family-friendly atmosphere filled with laughter and amazement.

One of the most popular attractions is the Bollywood Flash Mob dancers, who bring the energy and excitement of Bollywood music and dance to the stage. These performances showcase the cultural richness of various countries, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the diverse traditions of the world.

Rides and Games

For thrill-seekers, the Carnival section of Global Village offers over 175 rides, games, and attractions. From exhilarating roller coasters to a giant Ferris wheel, there’s something for everyone. Families can enjoy classic rides like carousels and bumper cars, while the haunted house promises a spooky adventure for those brave enough to enter.

The carnival also features skill games and arcade classics, allowing visitors to test their skills and win exciting prizes. This blend of rides and games makes Global Village a perfect destination for families and friends looking to have fun and create lasting memories.

Pavilions

Global Village is home to 25 pavilions, each representing a different country and showcasing its culture, cuisine, and traditions. Visitors can wander through these pavilions to discover unique displays of art, music, and fashion from around the world. Each pavilion offers a glimpse into the lifestyle and customs of its respective nation, allowing for an educational experience alongside the entertainment.

From the majestic architecture of the Egyptian pavilion to the colorful decorations of the Asian pavilion, these exhibits provide insight into the rich cultural diversity that exists globally. Visitors can sample traditional dishes, watch live demonstrations, and even participate in cultural workshops, enhancing their understanding of different societies.

Iconic Landmarks

As you explore Global Village, you’ll encounter iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Taj Mahal, recreated in stunning detail. These landmarks serve as fantastic photo opportunities, allowing visitors to capture their memories of the day. Wandering through these replicas adds an extra layer of magic to the experience, as you can enjoy a taste of world-famous attractions without leaving Dubai.

Conclusion

Global Village Dubai is an extraordinary destination that captures the essence of global cultures while providing endless entertainment and shopping opportunities. Whether you are indulging in mouth-watering street food, exploring the diverse pavilions, or enjoying spectacular live performances, every moment at Global Village is designed to create lasting memories. The vibrant atmosphere and welcoming environment make it a perfect outing for families, friends, and solo travelers alike, showcasing the beauty of cultural diversity.

When planning your visit, it's important to be aware of the Dubai Global Village entry fee. The entrance fee for Global Village Dubai is typically modest, ranging from AED 15 to AED 25, making it an accessible option for all budgets. With this affordable cost, you gain access to a plethora of attractions, including thrilling rides and cultural shows, enhancing the overall experience. The Global Village Dubai cost is a small investment for a full day of fun, entertainment, and cultural exploration. As you plan your visit, be sure to enjoy everything this remarkable destination has to offer, ensuring a memorable outing for you and your loved ones.

[longlistshort]

Aliza Nisenbaum’s paintings for Altanera, Preciosa y Orgullosa, her current exhibition at Regen Projects, fill the gallery with colorful portraits depicting dancers from dance troupes and studios local to Southern California- including Teresita de Jesús of Studio 10, Folklorico Revolución, Mariachi Tierra Mia, and Amelia Muñoz Dancers.

From the press release-

An early, leading figure in the centrality of representation and portraiture in the preceding decade, Nisenbaum develops vibrant, figurative paintings through a form of participatory observation. She forges relationships with her subjects and connects meaningfully to the complex communities they create together. Informed by a diverse array of artistic and political traditions, Nisenbaum’s pictures (and the process through which they are made) recall forebears such as Alice Neel, Sylvia Sleigh, and Diego Rivera.

From mariachi to salsa, the works give painterly shape to the fleeting festivity of these traditions. Exploring connections between sight and sound, they evoke music and movement in an otherwise static, silent medium by way of color, contour, and pattern. As such, they recall modernist experiments and visionaries such as Sonia Delaunay and Florine Stettheimer. Mindful of the ever-intensifying specter of technology that shapes our daily lives and recalling sociologist Émile Durkheim’s theory of “collective effervescence,” Nisenbaum’s paintings celebrate these spaces and occasions for dancing as consecrated moments apart from our screens and devices, reminding us of the pleasure of being more fully of and with our bodies and each other.

The exhibition’s title, Altanera, Preciosa y Orgullosa, draws from “La Bikina,” an iconic Mexican ballad, and describes the song’s namesake subject, a “haughty, gorgeous and proud” woman. As such, it alludes to the sounds and sentiments that might accompany the dancers and musicians pictured throughout Nisenbaum’s paintings, as well as her overarching interest in depictions of female power, independence, and self-assuredness. These themes recur in La Bruja, a painting of dancers learning to carry lit candles safely atop their heads as they dance to lyrics that describe a witch, or “bruja,” at work in the middle of the night. For Nisenbaum, La Bruja, like “La Bikina,” evokes a powerful mythology of strong women, informed by their own agency and control as they move through the world.

Poised and focused, Shine Arm Styling, on 1, introduces us to a duo especially attentive to the most decisive details. Likewise, Nisenbaum’s paintings orchestrate a carefully calibrated concert of humming patterns and colors, from the rhyming latticework of tights to the gauzy curtains that drape and cocoon the rooms, the lacey fretwork of leotards and costumes, and the pronounced grain of the wooden floors. Animating and unbridled patterning recurs across the canvases, a painterly translation of the energy of the dancers and the spirit of their music. Just as the women tap more and more frenetically in La Bruja—building and accelerating—the pattern that frames them expands through and beyond the figures, likening the sonic experience to this visual effect, as well as the pace of paint handling that produces it.

Similarly, as dancers slide and screech to a halt, the undulating motion of the wooden floors mirrors the movement of the figures via painterly gesture. Rehearsal mirrors and elevated bars occasion playful angles, geometries, and juxtapositions, expanding and suturing spaces and passages. They punctuate, frame, divide, and at times provocatively double or even triple figures and forms, creating and implying pictures within pictures. Such reflections liken Nisenbaum’s activity as a painter to that of the whirling dancers. Her complex tableaux reveal her deep awareness and clear delight in the possibilities of painting to narrate human experience and the relationships that sustain us.

This exhibition closes 10/26/24.

[wedding-djhire]

Lighting up the Celebration: How to Entertain Your Guests at a Wedding Reception

Introduction:

Your wedding day is a celebration of love, and one of your primary goals is to ensure that both you and your guests have an unforgettable time. To create lasting memories and keep the party going, it’s essential to plan entertaining activities for your wedding reception. In this Wedding DJ Hire article, we’ll explore creative ways to entertain your guests, light up your celebration, and make your special day even more remarkable.

1. Music and Dance:

• A great wedding DJ or live band can set the tone for the entire reception. Ensure a diverse playlist that caters to various tastes and encourages everyone to hit the dance floor.

• Consider having a dance-off or a “dance your way to the couple” contest to get guests involved.

2. Photo Booth Fun:

• Set up a photo booth with props, backdrops, and instant prints. This provides a fun and interactive way for guests to capture memories.

• Create a scrapbook where guests can leave a copy of their photos along with heartfelt messages.

3. Lawn Games:

• If you have an outdoor wedding or reception, lawn games like cornhole, giant Jenga, or ring toss can keep guests entertained during downtime.

• Provide a designated area for these games, complete with seating for spectators.

4. Interactive Food Stations:

• Food can be entertainment too! Consider unique food stations like a sushi bar, taco station, or a make-your-own dessert bar.

• Interactive food stations engage guests and add an element of fun to the dining experience.

5. Signature Cocktails:

• Create special cocktails named after you as a couple. This adds a personal touch and gives guests something to talk about.

• You can even offer a “mixology station” where guests can customize their own drinks.

6. Table Games and Trivia:

• Place trivia cards or conversation starters at each table to encourage interaction among guests.

• Board games like Scrabble or crossword puzzles can also be a hit at tables.

7. Live Entertainment:

• Consider hiring additional entertainers like magicians, caricature artists, or a fire-dancing troupe to provide unique experiences throughout the evening.

• Live entertainment can be an exciting surprise for your guests.

8. Speeches and Toasts:

• Heartfelt and entertaining speeches can be a highlight of the evening. Encourage your selected speakers to share funny anecdotes and warm wishes.

• Keep speeches concise to maintain guest engagement.

9. Surprise Elements:

• Add unexpected surprises to your reception, like a flash mob, choreographed dance by the bridal party, or a surprise fireworks display.

• These unexpected moments will leave a lasting impression on your guests.

10. Late-Night Snacks:

• Offer late-night snacks like pizza slices, mini sliders, or a candy bar to keep energy levels up.

• These snacks can fuel guests for more dancing and festivities.

Conclusion:

Entertaining your guests at a wedding reception isn’t just about music and dancing; it’s about creating a joyful and memorable experience. This is embodied in our motto "Turning Music Into Memories" here at Wedding DJ Hire, where we specialise not only in wedding entertainment, but also provide other DJ Hire services such as Birthday Party DJ Hire and Corporate Event DJ Hire.

Mix and match these ideas to suit your style and budget, and don’t be afraid to add your personal touch. With careful planning, your wedding reception with Wedding DJ Hire will be a delightful celebration that your guests will cherish for years to come.