#spring troupe 11th performance

[cherryblossomssmash]

A3: ROMEO & JULIUS: ROSSO E BLU 💙

SPRING TROUPE 11TH SHOW

.

.

.

Please buy me a coffee! I truly appreciate it! 💕

[jujumin-translates]

🌸 Spring Troupe’s 11th Performance - Romeo & Julius ~Rosso e Blu~

“With you and me, our story continues.”

Cast:

Sakuya Sakuma as Romeo

Masumi Usui as Julius

Tsuzuru Minagi as Mercutio

Itaru Chigasaki as Tybalt

Citron as Father Laurence

Chikage Utsuki as Gildo

Summary:

After leaving Verona, Romeo and Julius continue their journey and arrive at the great city of Bologna. There, they help a man named Gildo…

To their surprise, this man’s grandfather, Giorgio, was once a chamberlain of a lord in Verona and a friend of Romeo and Julius’ grand-uncles.

The contents of Giorgio’s diary and the truths held in it seem to be connected to the origin of the quarrel between the Montague and Capulet families—.

Song:

Title: You & Me

Sung by: Sakuya Sakuma & Masumi Usui

Lyrics: Tonegawa Takeyuki, Kitagawa Katsuoshi

Composition & Arrangement: Kitagawa Katsuoshi

[asordinaryppl]

A3! Main Story: Part 4 - Act 16: Crossing Paths - Episode 1: The Final Baton Pass

Luciano: “Angelo’s a fine choice. Having a stingy partner is a pain in the ass.”

Lansky: “You’ll be fine as long as you don’t get stuck with a stubborn womanizer.”

Luciano: “Ahh? Who are you talkin’ about?”

Lansky: “No one in particular.”

Luciano: “You’re soundin’ awfully specific if you ask me.”

-

Tsumugi: …

Tsumugi: (This is the performance the Autumn Troupe has put on after receiving the baton from the Spring Troupe and Summer Troupe…)

Tsumugi: (I can feel their determination to surpass the passion of the troupes before them. It’s making my heart pound.)

Tsumugi: (This is the flaming hot baton we’re receiving from the Autumn Troupe.)

Tsumugi: (As the anchor, we will carry the baton they carried from the Spring and Summer troupes to the finish line, the best we can.)

Tsumugi: (This is our– the Winter Troupe’s duty.)

Tsumugi: (We have to– no, we want to surpass this performance that the Autumn Troupe put on as a result of breaking out of their shells. We also have to go one step further than the plays we’ve been putting on as the Winter Troupe so far…)

-

[Door knocking]

Tsuzuru: Tsukioka-san, is now a good time?

Tsumugi: Yeah, come in.

-

[Door opening]

Tsumugi: Is something wrong?

Tsuzuru: It’s about time for me to come up with a plot for the Winter Troupe’s play, so I’m going around to ask if you guys have any ideas.

Tsumugi: Unlike the other troupes, our debut performance seems like it’s a little harder to come up with a sequel to.

Tsuzuru: Right. I can’t just write about what happens after that ending… But I suppose there are lots of ways to go about it.

Tsumugi: There’s been a time when I wondered what would happen if Michael was reincarnated as a human.

Tsumugi: He’d reunite with Raphael, and I think it’d be nice if the two exchanged letters.

Tsuzuru: A reunion between Michael and Raphael… The way they were separated was pretty sad.

Tsuzuru: I think I can do something with that idea. I’ll go give it some more thought.

Tsuzuru: If you’ve got any other requests, feel free to tell me anytime.

Tsuzuru: Though, killing the actor called Tsumugi Tsukioka will be a bit difficult this time around.

Tsumugi: Haha, that’s true.

Tsumugi: But it’s exactly because I killed myself in order to perform as Lucifer that I think that…

Tsumugi: I can now return to my origins and make use of the strengths of the actor Tsumugi Tsukioka.

Tsumugi: We also have the nomination for the New Fleur Award to take into consideration this time, so we have to make sure we’ll be able to carry the baton to the finals.

Tsuzuru: Ever since we got 11th in 3Q, MANKAI Company’s been getting more attention.

Tsuzuru: I’ve gotta do my best with the script, too.

Tsumugi: That reminds me, are you working on the script for Towa-kun’s troupe?

Tsuzuru: I haven’t gotten to it yet, but I’ve been thinkin’ it’s about time I get started…

Tsumugi: Has he not gathered enough members yet?

Tsuzuru: It’s just the three of them at the moment, and they’re looking for a fourth. Towa seems to be in a hurry to find someone.

Tsumugi: I think he’s excited to act out your script. I understand how he feels.

Tsuzuru: I’d be happy if that was the case, but it seems he’s got some other deadline in mind…

-

momo has entered the chat momo: one more member has joined! one left to reach the goal! Kar: graaats Iv: good for you shiki: congrats! good luck with finding the last one! momo: it’d be nice if one of u guys would join thoughhh Kar: nahhh Iv: u just don’t give up 

-

Kureha: …

Kureha: (I often go to watch theater plays because of my father, so it’s not like I’m not interested. And putting on my own play does sound fun.)

Kureha: (Being on stage in front of an audience sounds natural for me, and I’ve even thought about going down that path too.)

Kureha: (But…)

Kureha: …

Kureha: And the idea of meeting momo in person is a little…

Kureha’s mom: Kureha, shouldn’t you be going to your job soon?

Kureha: Ah, yeah. I’m just getting ready to go.

previous episode (act 15) | masterpost | next episode

INSTE POST:

Guy-N

The Autumn Troupe's sequel was fantastic. It's a performance I'd want to watch again and again. And now, it's almost the Winter Troupe's turn. I hope you will all look forward to the day we can deliver our performance to you.

NOTES:

(1) the anchor leg is the final position in a relay race, it's typically given to the fastest and/or most experienced member of the team

[antoine-roquentin]

Former practitioners of Falun Gong told NBC News that believers think the world is headed toward a judgment day, where those labeled “communists” will be sent to a kind of hell, and those sympathetic to the spiritual community will be spared. Trump is viewed as a key ally in the anti-communist fight, former Epoch Times employees said.

In part because of that unusual background, The Epoch Times has had trouble finding a foothold in the broader conservative movement.

“It seems like an interloper — not well integrated socially within the movement network, and not terribly well-circulating among right-wingers,” said A.J. Bauer, a visiting professor of media, culture and communication at New York University, who is part of an ongoing study in which he and his colleagues interview conservative journalists.

“Even when discussing more fringe-y sites, conservative journalists tend to reference Gateway Pundit or Infowars,” Bauer said. “The Epoch Times doesn’t tend to come up.”

That seems to be changing.

Before 2016, The Epoch Times generally stayed out of U.S. politics, unless they dovetailed with Chinese interests. The publication’s recent ad strategy, coupled with a broader campaign to embrace social media and conservative U.S. politics — Trump in particular — has doubled The Epoch Times’ revenue, according to the organization’s tax filings, and pushed it to greater prominence in the broader conservative media world.

Started almost two decades ago as a free newspaper and website with a stated mission to “provide information to Chinese communities to help immigrants assimilate into American society,” The Epoch Times now wields one of the biggest social media followings of any news outlet.

In April, at the height of its ad spending, videos from the Epoch Media Group, which includes The Epoch Times and digital video outlet New Tang Dynasty, or NTD, combined for around 3 billion views on Facebook, YouTube and Twitter, ranking 11th among all video creators across platforms and outranking every other traditional news publisher, according to data from the social media analytics company Tubular....

It has also invited scrutiny of the spiritual leader’s more unconventional ideas. Among them, Li has railed against what he called the wickedness of homosexuality, feminism and popular music while holding that he is a god-like figure who can levitate and walk through walls.

Li has also taught that sickness is a symptom of evil that can only be truly cured with meditation and devotion, and that aliens from undiscovered dimensions have invaded the minds and bodies of humans, bringing corruption and inventions such as computers and airplanes. The Chinese government has used these controversial teachings to label Falun Gong a cult. Falun Gong has denied the government's characterization.

The Epoch Times provided Li with an English-language way to push back against China — a position that would eventually dovetail with Trump’s election.

In 2005, The Epoch Times released its greatest salvo, publishing the ''Nine Commentaries," a widely distributed book-length series of anonymous editorials that it claimed exposed the Chinese Communist Party’s “massive crimes” and “attempts to eradicate all traditional morality and religious belief.”

The next year, an Epoch Times reporter was removed from a White House event for Chinese President Hu Jintao after interrupting the ceremony by shouting for several minutes that then-President George W. Bush must stop the leader from “persecuting Falun Gong.”

But despite its small army of devoted volunteers, The Epoch Times was still operating as a fledgling startup.

Ben Hurley is a former Falun Gong practitioner who helped create Australia’s English version of The Epoch Times out of a living room in Sydney in 2005. He has written about his experience with the paper and described the early years as “a giant PR campaign” to evangelize about Falun Gong’s belief in an upcoming apocalypse in which those who think badly of the practice, or well of the Chinese Communist Party, will be destroyed.

Hurley, who wrote for The Epoch Times until he left in 2013, said he saw practitioners in leadership positions begin drawing harder and harder lines about acceptable political positions.

“Their views were always anti-abortion and homophobic, but there was more room for disagreements in the early days,” he said.

Hurley said Falun Gong practitioners saw communism everywhere: former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, movie star Jackie Chan and former United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan were all considered to have sold themselves out to the Chinese government, Hurley said.

This kind of coverage foreshadowed the news organization’s embrace of conspiracy theories like QAnon, the overarching theory that there is an evil cabal of “deep state” operators and child predators out to take down the president.

“It is so rabidly pro-Trump,” Hurley said, referring to The Epoch Times. Devout practitioners of Falun Gong “believe that Trump was sent by heaven to destroy the Communist Party.”

A representative for Li declined an interview request. Li lives among hundreds of his followers near Dragon Springs, a 400-acre compound in upstate New York that houses temples, private schools and quarters where performers for the organization’s dance troupe, Shen Yun, live and rehearse, according to four former compound residents and former Falun Gong practitioners who spoke to NBC News.

They said that life in Dragon Springs is tightly controlled by Li, that internet access is restricted, the use of medicines is discouraged, and arranged relationships are common. Two former residents on visas said they were offered to be set up with U.S. residents at the compound.

it’s not that difficult to find monetary relationships between falun gong and the us intelligence community. the falun gong-run hosting provider for the epoch times, “dynamic internet technology”, hosts 3 other websites: voice of america, radio free asia, and human rights in china. that being said, falun gong, like most cults, currently makes enough money through its ventures to be more than self-sufficient, as any decently run cult should (otherwise, why set up a cult?). this relationship seems more of a throwback to the cold war days, when republicans would often use relationships with organizations grounded in american-based diasporas to drum up votes. reagan, for instance, courted both the sun myung moon cult as well as the organization of ukrainian nationalists for votes, pandering to their fears in the in-house press outlets of these groups in exchange for us intelligence grant money and perhaps a bit of recruitment when specialists in the region were needed for analysis. what the intelligence community got out of the arrangement was the ability to sidestep the protections against cia propaganda running within america that were instituted in the 70s. after the smith-mundt act was “modernized” though, this was no longer necessary, leaving only the republicans and their long-cultivated cult-media relationships.

the simple fact is, in order to make support for the incredibly weak presidency of trump make sense, to remove the cognitive dissonance, some belief in a qanon-like conspiracy is necessary, so it makes sense that a republican-tied outlet like epoch times would be supportive. the increased pageviews that generate ad revenue are the other big factor.

[the-royal-courier]

Events This Week

Grace of Elune

When: Tuesday, May 9th Time:  6 Bells (server) Where: Temple of the Moon, Darnassus

Joine Priestes Roraelis for a brief one-hour sermon on the wonders and mysteries of Elune, with blessings offered afterward. Everyone is allowed to attend, no invite needed! DKs, DHs, and warlocks allowed!

(Contact @autumnal-eclipse for more details)

____________________________________

Nature Expedition: The Plaguelands, Two Part Event (Part two)

When: Thursday, May 11TH Time:   5 Bells (server) Where: Eastern Plaugelands (Contact Firebát in game if you will be joining in)

Join explorer and historian, Nathan Hugues on an adventure through the Plaguelands. Due to the  vast amount of territory to be covered, Mr. Hugues has broken this undertaking into two nights.

(Contact Firebát in game for more information)

____________________________________

First to Your Aid Charity Event

When: Friday, May 12 Time:  6 to 8 Bells (Server) Where:  Stormwind Docks

House Addington and House Preston officially invite you to the docks of Stormwind to aid in the donating to Dalaran Infirmary, First to Your Aid, and in that aiding our troops who are fighting for all of us on the Broken Isles.

There will be food and drink, the selling of medical supplies, a one time free infirmary, and vendors to sell balloons alongside note cards in which you will be able to pen your late loved one and release it into the high heavens for their receiving.

Save for the free running of the Infirmary, all proceedings earned will be donated to First to Your Aid; we will also be taking donations otherwise for the Infirmary should anyone wish to give.

We pray we’ll see you there.

(Reach out to Loala or Ananorah for more information  @littlelady-lo @ananorah / @alistandra)

____________________________________

The Rat Bastard Tavern

When: Friday, May 12 Time:  8 Bells (server) Where: The Rat Bastard Tavern (Ship in Stormwind Docks, middle pier)

Tired of the same old watering hole? Have you counted the cracks on the ceiling of every local pub? The Rat Bastard Tavern offers a switch of scenery, floating serenely in the Stormwind Harbor for one night only every other week. If the change of scenery is not enough, why not come for the live music, the diverse patrons, and the fun and friendly staff? Sporting a wide drink menu of local and imported spirits and food menu to come, The Rat Bastard will leave you with some good memories and maybe a fun staggering walk home. Don’t dress up, we prefer things casual!

Rules:

1. No fighting. 2. No weapons. 3. No pets.

Any weapons will be checked at the door and looked after by our professional staff to be returned on departure. Any pets will be kindly asked to be left outside. Hope to see you there!

____________________________________

Spring Brewer’s Festival

When: Saturday, May 13th Time:  6 to 8 Bells (server) Where: Stormwind Harbor

Come sample the finest ales, wines, and spirits the Alliance has to offer! Drinks, Entertainment, and Food provided by the Alliance Brewer’s Guild.

(For more info, /join alliancebrewersguild to contact someone! Note:  We need more entertainers!  Contact Bathildis in game or @bath-ironstout if you would like to perform at the festival.)

____________________________________

Bedlam & Mayhem (an RP/PVP Tournament)

When: Saturday, May 13th Time:   7 Bells (server) Where: A secured alcove in Blackrock Mountain, Burning Steppes

Entry fee: 200g (in-game gold) Winning purses: 1st place - 20k; 2nd place - 10k; 3rd place - 5k

How to sign up: Each person wishing to enter their name in the tournament -MUST- sign up prior to the event at the Steelgrove shop, located along the Dwarven District canals. (whisper anyone online, we can each sign you up IC!)

(Details to note: This event is -rp/pvp-. This means that your character is an active roleplaying character, and is fighting via a PvP duel. Each person’s name will be entered into the brackets, and chosen -at random- for their fights)

Refreshments available for purchase thanks to Ludlow Vineyards, and Xerathi Liquors.

(Any questions? Speak to @huntress-verlai @aneokame-crowsong @varyem-rhaine @thesnoreashan)

____________________________________

What’s in a Name? Event When: Sunday, May 14th Time:  6 Bells (Server) Where: Ludlow Vineyards Shop (Gallina Winery Shop, Trade District, Stormwind)

Lady Elizebella Ludlow of Ludlow Vineyards and Winery is hosting an event to name her thirteenth signature wine!  

A voting will take place to choose the name of this new vintage! The winner of the vote will be awarded an entire case of the new wine, as well as be awarded one thousand gold. ((OOC 10,000 gold))

Free samples of the new wine will be provided for all!

(Contact Elizebella in game or @elizebella for more information)

___________________________________

OOC:  Blizzard Events

Darkmoon Faire  [May 7–May 13]

Meet Silas Darkmoon and his troupe, play games that test mind and nerve, and behold exotic sights from the four corners of Azeroth and beyond!

Legion Dungeon Event  [May 9 –May 15]

While this event is active, the final boss of each Legion dungeon awards an extra item when defeated.

Spring Balloon Festival [May 10–May 12]

The skies are clear; the wind is calm—it’s a great day for hot air ballooning. Hop into a hot air balloon, enjoy the scenery, and make some new friends!

___________________________________

Weekly Events

Amberstaff Wizard Coven Where: Ambermill, Silverpine Forest When: Tuesday’s @ 6 Bells Do you seek power, as well as skill? Do you wish for the knowledge to pass any puzzle and best any foe? Are you in need of guidance and know not where to start? Those with the gift of magic are cordially invited to Ambermill, Silverpine- Beneath the Arcane Dome to test their ability and will to learn. Those with the ability to learn will be taken underwing and shown the path to greatness. Contact Archwizard Moonblade for more information (Helarsar in game)

___________________________________

Wine & Poetry Night Hosted by Ludlow Vineyards Where:  Bridgeton Home (OOC: Ledgerman Lounge in Old Dalaran) When:  Wednesday’s at 6 Bells (server)

Join the employees of Ludlow Vineyards for an evening full of laughter, wine, food and good friends. Build a poem one line at a time from a theme chosen by the group.

@ludlowvineyards  @elizebella @lumenwolf

____________________________________

Steelgrove Syndicate Store When: Thursday @ 6 Bells (server) Where: Dwarven District (Pott’s Plates - Canal side) Theme: Shop

A small get together for those who wish to browse our wares, and enjoy good company. Refreshments offered free of charge! Join us at 6pm (st) until 8pm (st). ( @steelgrove-syndicate)

____________________________________

Silverblade Contracts

Open: Monday & Tuesday: 4-6 pm, Friday & Saturday: 4-5 pm Closed: Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday Where: Cathedral District Theme: Shop

This shop hosts an array of services such as Weapon Sales and Repairs, Protection Services, and more! To inquire more about large orders or other services, please send word to Count Adorlan Matheredor (Adorlan in-game, @adorlan)  

____________________________________

The Cask n Anvil: When - Fridays @ 6 pm server Where - Ironforge Who - Modarin Theme - Social

____________________________________

The Wyrmhearth Tavern When: Saturdays @ 8 pm Server Where: Thelsamar Who: Annalura, Noelina, Leatei, or Oakenmoon Theme: Social

____________________________________

The Sparrow’s Nest When: Sunday’s Noon - 2 Bells (Server) Where: The Sparrow’s Nest (Essential Components in the Mage Quarter) Theme: Social Who:  Lakryss Sparrow

Come have a relax cup of tea in a quiet relaxed environment. All teas crafted by Miss Sparrow herself!

@lakryss-sparrow

____________________________________

The Steel Pub

When: Sunday @ 6 pm server Where: in Anvilmar, Dun Morogh Who: Bath Ironstout Theme: Social

@bath-ironstout @ironstoutbrews

____________________________________

Upcoming Events

Consortium Confections Grand Opening

When: Thursday, May 18th Time:   6 Bells (Server) Where:  Stonefire Tavern, Ironforge

Join the members of Iron Rose Consortium as they celebrate the grand opening of the Consortium Confections shop. From cookies to candies, your sweet tooth will be happy with any of these tasty treats.

(See the menu here and reach out to Moriay in game or @moriayamina​ for more information)

____________________________________

Ironforge Spring Craft Fest When: May 20, 6-9 bells Where: Great Forge area, Ironforge

The Dwarven clans of Khaz Modan, as well as other brothers and sisters of the Alliance, wish to host a crafter’s festival to honor centuries of fine craftsmanship! This will be the one year anniversary and Spring installment of this seasonal event!

Contact Bath Ironstout for your vendor booth, to be an entertainer, or more information. ( @bath-ironstout or You can message Bathildis, Davonna, or Modarin in game at any point or send your request via in-game mail!)

____________________________________

Sunday Alfresco Lunch

When: May 21st from 12-2pm Where: Maclure Vineyards, Elwynn Forest.

Lord Alphonso Ludlow & Lady Elizebella Ludlow invite you to their Vineyards for an alfresco picnic lunch on Sunday, May twenty-first at noon. Dress in your best and bring along your picnic lunch, blankets, and umbrellas to shade you under the afternoon sun. One choice bottle of Ludlow Signature Wine will be given to each picnic basket brought!

Weapons are not permitted and will be taken upon entering the Estate gates and given back to their respectful owners upon leaving. Feel free to place your picnic anywhere within the vineyards, but do be mindful of the vines and be respectful of the grounds.

(OOC: For a bit of in-game aesthetics the picnic will be held within the Maclure Vineyards. We ask that everyone dress nice and bring their Romantic Picnic Basket to continually use as we will be taking screenshots during the event! If you do not have one, that’s okay! The baskets only last 3 min and have a 3 min cool down. We do not expect everyone to keep the baskets up at all times, but to make an attempt to do so every so often.

The grounds are heavily guarded and it will be assumed that everyone was allowed entry and weapons were handed over at the gate. This way everyone can just head on over at noon and pick a spot to place their basket. Contact Elizebella for more information @elizebella @ludlowvineyards @collectively-dark)

____________________________________

Alliance Merchant Festival

When: Friday, June 10 Time: 7 to 10 Bells (Server) Where:  Celestial Court, Timeless Isles

Come out to support Alliance Merchants from around Azeroth. Games, food, drink, trinkets and more!

(Contact Loala in game or @littlelady-lo  for more information on how you can participate, host a booth or just come along for some fun! )

_____________________________________

(Have an event you would like advertised? Send a message to @risrielthron or contact Risri in game)

[ever-jane]

Wednesday 11th January 2017

Last night, Papa and I went to the –Theatre to watch the comedian Miles Jupp. We took the bus, for the car was being repaired – Papa picked it up from the garage this morning.

It was dark at early evening. The sky was a beautiful shade of darkest blue, far superior to navy in shade and depth. The Devonshire sky was as a rich Oxford blue. I thought how lovely it would be to have a silken gown in such a gorgeous hue. The moon was almost full. Wedgwood would have been proud of its porcelain whiteness. I believe Verlaine wrote of last night’s Clair de Lune: “Au calme clair de lune triste et beau, Qui fait rêver les oiseaux dans les arbres” Although some clouds were as fields upon the sky, one could see many stars, which looked as silver pin pricks upon the black-blue. I spotted bold Orion, stood a little below the high moon, and pointed him out to Papa, as he had first pointed the constellation out to me in my early childhood. I would not go out alone when dark, but felt safe with Papa. How strange it was to walk the streets towards the university theatre, passing so many young persons, and realising that I am likely older than many of them. I am small and I look young, but in those moments I felt motherly – I hoped they were well fed, loved and looking after themselves. Miles Jupp was very funny. The audience were good – no one heckled; all laughed and applauded. Papa was very kind to accompany me, so I was glad he enjoyed the comic whom he was only a little familiar with. I felt affinity with Mr Jupp’s politeness, but felt sorry that he should feel so often anger at little things. I was reminded of the medieval humours. I recognise myself as alas melancholic. Mr Jupp, if his stand-up is accurate, appears choleric, like his near namesake and fellow restaurant critic Giles Coren. Mr Coren was found choleric in The Supersizers Eat... Medieval, whilst his co-presenter, Sue Perkins, is melancholic like myself. 

I felt Mr Jupp must be a hard worker, as must most if not all stand-up comics, for to travel across the country, be far from home for so long, and work so late in the day. Although perhaps Mr Jupp and I disagree on certain points, overall I felt grateful for him, for he brought cheer to the melancholic. I asked Papa that I may keep the tickets, and picked up two of the comic’s leaflets. These I pasted into a new year’s scrapbook to record the evening.

Today, I saw my first flowers of the new year: upon a brittle bush in the garden, a handful of winter jasmine. The small yellow sprigs made me smile. I picked a few and placed them in the scrapbook to brighten the page of Mr Jupp. I love yellow, for it is the colour of happiness. Soon all will be yellow again, for how yellow is spring: early blooms bushes of coarse forsythia and gorse; on every lawn may be found creamy primroses in groups of three or four, and everywhere thousands of lesser celandine seen; and bordering every proud English garden lines of dearest daffodils, whilst undear dandelions will in straggled grasses grow. I am grateful for the yellowness of nature, and the happiness of yellow. I remember van Gogh used to eat yellow paint, as he thought it would make him happy. In springtime, it seems the earth itself, with its sunny aesthetic, seeks to make even the melancholic smile. My room is as yellow and botanical as the Hufflepuff common room, in which I would sit cosily with my fellow pufflings, Ada, Bette and Sally. I draw comfort and joy from my messy sanctuary’s décor.  

Over Christmas, I joined Ada, her mother and Bette on a trip to Plymouth to watch Le Navet Bête’s show, The Jungle Book. Our group of friends have followed the amusing troupe since we first watched them as drama students in secondary school. I have many merry memories of us going to watch their shows, first as giddy teenagers and now as young adults. I look forward to one day taking my own children to see such funny family-friendly performances. Ada’s mother was kind, for she drove Ada and me to the port town. It was so lovely to see my far-travelling friend. On the journey we spoke of pleasant things: that we have been friends for a decade now, and look forward to many more decades of firm friendship; of the recent release of Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them, which we had each watched individually and both enjoyed; and of Ada’s discovery that she is also a Hufflepuff. Ada and I share a love for charity shops. Arriving early in Plymouth, we happily looked around the first charity shop we came across. Ada made an armful of purchases, whilst I brought a jacket reminiscent of early female aviators. My sister’s favourite historical figure is Amelia Earhart, and over the years we have gradually compiled each outfits inspired by her for fancy dress events. After our short shop, we met Bette, who lives and works in the town. Ada’s mother went for a peaceful walk along Plymouth Hoe, whilst we three ate at the theatre’s Thai restaurant. Bette and I had never eaten Thai food before. With Ada’s encouragement we made our first taste, and found the palate pleasing. Ada and I felt amusingly that Bette out-adults us, for she lives with her partner and has a job. Ada and I are alas yet to find love, and are both apprentices – her in costume design, and me in childcare. I was glad we had the opportunity to meet up over the Christmastide. Since school’s end, my friends have been scattered to the four winds: Ada has gone to Germany, Sally to Wales, Polly to Australia. For all to assemble together, as we did with ease nearly every day for seven or so years, I fear now requires a blue moon.

I look back on our joint teenage years with warmth; on those days spent together merrily on trips with the school choir, on summer picnics, and jaunts to see Le Navet Bête. We were a friendly bunch. Ever Jane x Picture Sources: http://www.milesjupp.co.uk/ http://www.flowerfairyprints.com/2012/07/page/11/ http://gnomeschool.deviantart.com/art/Hufflepuff-Common-Room-297756527

[furederiko]

"Shin Sakura Taisen Rekidai Kayoushuu" Review

During the weekend, a friend of mine was kind enough to let me listen the whole "Shin Sakura Taisen Rekidai Kayoushuu", including the fresh tunes from the new PS4 game released last week on December 12th, 2019. Being a long time fan, naturally, I would like to share my impression for these new songs!

With that said, it has been a while since I posted an album review, because life happens and all. So I'm going to have to take it slow this time. Several songs for each post and you're looking at Part 1 of 4!

By the way, I haven't played the game itself (don't ask why. I need to get a PS4 first, right?). But there might be certain aspects from these songs that might (or might not) dive into details of the story and such. Henceforth, SPOILER ALERT! Without further ado, I'm gonna start with the first three: the group songs.

Geki! Teikoku Kagekidan <Shinshou> (Assault! Imperial Floral Troupe <New Chapter>) by. Teikoku Kagekidan Hanagumi

"Shin GEKITEI", for short. This song and its official instrumental/off-vocal track had been released on iTunes, Google Play Music, and other channels since November 26th, 2019. If you're a Sakura Wars fan, you have obviously have heard about this version over and over again by now. It's been used in every promotional video. And it's obviously featured in the game's opening sequence that you can watch above, which came out months ago. But you're still wondering about the difference to the original version sung by Sakura Shinguuji (Chisa Yokoyama)? This one has a new melody in the verses, interlude, as well as that "Yume wa yomiageru... Warera aratanaru" twist in the final chorus. The duration itself is quite similar, clocking as the shortest track of the album. While Sakura Amamiya takes most of the first verse, the remaining Shin Hanagumi members each get a line or two on the second. My one complaint is that Ana doesn't get a new line here. The pronunciation of the new verses is a challenge to sing along, especially to those who can't speak fast like yours truly. I actually bit my tongue while trying to sing this song! Then again, did the voice actresses shared the same difficulty? I mean, it wasn't easy to catch the lyrics at first (particularly Hatsuho's "no" and "wa"), since they worded it a bit differently. Not that it's that big of an issue, of course. Personally, I think it sounds fantastic and stands on par with the 1996 version. It sounds nostalgic, but with a touch of new and modern flares at the same time. I came into the fandom because I fell in love with the original "GEKITEI" the second I heard it. It thrills me to know that this new rendition might reach and attract younger fans too!

Aratanaru (Something New) by. Sakura Amamiya (Ayane Sakura), Hatsuho Shinonome (Maaya Uchida), Azami Mochizuki (Hibiku Yamamura), Anastasia Palma (Ayaka Fukuhara), Clarissa Snowflake (Saori Hayami), Huang Yui (Sumire Uesaka), Lancelot (Manami Numakura) & Elise (Nana Mizuki)

Is this the ending theme for the game? Hmmm... The song title was kept as SECRET until the December 11th's Teigeki Report. On that occasion, series composer Kouhei Tanaka-sensei was one of the guests. He revealed that the goal of this song was to evoke the sense of "Sakura Taisen 2"'s ending theme "Yume no Tsuzuki" for the new generation. And in a way, it succeeded. It does showcase a grand finale of some sort, having most of the lead female cast members lending their vocals into one song (sorry Margarete, sorry male Captains!). Shin Hanagumi takes center stage, while Elise leads the non Hanagumi in the brief interlude. My issue is not on the music, which is pretty much Kouhei-sensei's signature big group number. Rather, I feel that lately, many modern voice actresses share similar voice tones to one another. Mind you, SEGA did a good job by selecting a diverse sound for this new cast. But it still took me a few listen to figure out which character sang which part. This was never a problem in the original games. Heck, even when all 18 VAs (from Sakura to Subaru) sang "Yume no Tsuzuki" at the "Sakura Taisen Budoukan 2" Finale, I could tell them apart without any effort. They certainly had a more distinct vocal style. Anyways, it does grow on me, and in several more encores I'm sure I will fully enjoy this. And if it IS indeed the ending tune, then I'm sure the player will be pleased due to the happy ending it implies. PS: Hold on, this doesn't hint that Yui, Lancelot, and Elise became new Hanagumi members in the end, right? I sure hope that's not the case. Oh, and there's no representative from Moscow Kagekidan yet, perhaps later in the TV anime soundtrack...

Kiseki no Kane (Taishou Nijuukyuunen-ban) (Miracle Bells (Taishou 2019 Edition)) by. Teikoku Kagekidan Hanagumi

A second title had been kept SECRET during the monthly broadcasts. Surprise, surprise! Turns out, it's none other than another modern rendition of the franchise's beloved and popular song! Is it just me or Sakura sounds a bit different here? As well as Hatsuho? Just like "Aratanaru", this song once again points out how the Shin Hanagumi members sound somewhat similar when they sing together (except for Azami, of course). I believe it's due to the lack of heavy 'otokoyaku' type of voice. Both Hatsuho and Ana seem to fit into that category, but they showcase a high range of vocals too. By modern take, I meant that quite literally. This sounds more like a common pop festive song now, thanks to the completely new accoustic and synthesized music, amidst the exact same melody. The kind you would catch on a Christmas special concerts on TV or streaming sites, performed by a slightly older girl-band. I'm not complaining though. This game launches in December, thus, it's the perfect time of the year. In fact, I've been listening to past Sakura Taisen's Christmas songs on repeat since the month began. So I definitely need this. That sleigh bells chiming in the intro will totally ready you for the winter wonderland. Though I'm not sure how the international audience will react when they receive this game in Spring 2020 (at the earliest)! Ahaha... late Christmas? PS: This is the 4th version of the song. It was first featured in a Christmas episode in "Sakura Taisen 2". Then it had a Sakura, Sumire & Maria's trio version for the year-end celebration. Later, it became the opening tune for "Sakura Taisen the Movie", a version which remains to be my favorite one of them all.

Check back tomorrow, same time same channel, for the next three songs: Sekai Kagekidan Renmei (WLOF), themes of the new cities!

Video is available on SEGA Official Youtube Channel. "Shin Sakura Taisen" is produced by SEGA, and RED Entertainment. Credits and copyrights belong to their respective owners.

[rprofiles]

♪ Name: Qiqisu Sumeragi ♪ Nickname(s): Qissy, Qiqi, Qisu, Qi ♪ Nameday: 11th moon of the 2nd Umbral Moon || Age: 18 Springs (?) ♪ Astological Watcher: Llymlaen, the Navigator ♪ Race: Lalafell (Dunesfolk/Plainsfolk); Roegadyn (Sea Wolf) ♪ Sex: Female; Gender Identy: Female ♪ Orientation: Bisexual ♪ Server: Balmung ♪ Eyes: Iridescent Wisteria; Wears Glasses ♪ Hair: Seafoam Green with Icy Blue Streaks; Braided  ♪ Build: Stout; H:2′11″ W: 50 lbs ♪ Distinctive Features: Slight green tint to skin, visible mainly on lips and scars; Scars on face; Downward floppy ears ♪ Equipment:   Glasses ♦ Profession:    ♦Elementalist: Has been able to hear the elements for as long as she can remember. When she was finally able to speak she was able to invoke their power. Closest with Water.    ♦Dancer: After viewing a troupe performing in Kugane with her grandparents, Qissy fell in love with the art. Combining weapons with her dances made for better control of her Aether Sickness as well as convincing her Grandparents she was ready to be out on her own, like her siblings! Can also incorporate manipulating the elements into her dances for entertainment purposes.  ♣ Hobbies:    ♣Alchemist/Brewer; Has an affinity for making some interesting and benificial drinks. Be careful, when she tries a new recipe she tends to ask for guinea pigs taste testers.   ♣Pet/Chocobo Raising/Breeding; Has always had a knack of attracting new animals/yokai to her side. When two of her pets had a fling and produced a litter, she found the adorable slightly different coats were very popular with others.    ♣Languages; She enjoys conversing with all beings, so has taken it upon herself to learn each language she encounters.   ♥ Sickness Aether Excretion/Pooling: The process of the body expelling/holding aether A rare combination of two conditions that are, for the most part, separate ailments. If Qissy does not use magic often enough, or for an extended period of time, it will build in her body causing aether poisoning. On the opposite side, any time she uses magic, she expels too much aether and is left depleted. Both are very dangerous and can lead to serious health problems and even death if left untreated.  ~ Treatment for Aether Excretion: Most of the time, the inflicted avoids spending any aether at all. In Qissy’s case, and others who enjoy spell casting to sword weilding, while difficult, she can learn to control how much aether is used when casting a spell. It makes magic much more difficult for the inflicted, but it can be done.    ~ Treatment for Aether Pooling: Plain and simple, cast magic. Cast magic from the time you wake til the time you sleep. The regeneration rate varies from person to person, but so long as you keep it within the safe limits of natural aether that is within all life, this is the best course of action. Aether Allergy: An allergy to aether. Not as rare as one may think, but definitely not something one hears about every day. Qissy’s allergy is more akin to mild skin irritation, occasional sneezing/nausea and vomiting when there is too much in one place. Often paired with Aether Pooling diagnosis as the excess aether begins to fight with our physiology.  ~ Treatment for Aether Allergy: Sadly, because aether can be found in almost every living thing, not much more than ointments and allergy potions can help with this diagnosis.

Relations [ ♪ = Known; ♠ = Accepted; ★ = Friends; ♣ = Like; ♥ = Love; ♦ = Disliked; × = Enemy; * = Family ]

*★♥ Rei Sumeragi || Brother; Hyur *★♥ Rin Sumeragi || Sister; Hyur *★♥ Ren Sumeragi || Brother; Hyur         -Found by the biological siblings while floating, almost dead, in the Ruby Sea     -Grandparents and siblings nursed her back to health. After realizing they’d have a lot of trouble finding her family they took her in and raised her.

Pets/Mounts ♥ Bisqotti; Red Panda; Nickname: Bisqit   -Has a talent for knowing when her Aether is too high or too low.   -Is rather protective of Qissy.   -Has a habit of becoming protective of others if Qissy seems protective of them at the time.    -Gift from Sister Rin ♥ Zelthromanus; Chocobo [Red]; Nickname: Zelthro

[tsokol37]

The Collective NB Dusts Off Some Quick Plays for Spring Cleaning

The Collective NB Dusts Off Some Quick Plays for Spring Cleaning

The Collective, a new theatre company in New Bedford, Massachusetts, is going two-for-two. The multi genre performance troupe announced the second show of their second season. Spring Cleaning: Airing Out 4 Short Plays will run at Gallery X on 169 William Street in downtown New Bedford on March 10th and 11th. Doors open at 7:30 p.m.

According to their press statement, The Collective “put a call…

[asordinaryppl]

A3! Main Story: Part 4 - Act 16: Crossing Paths - Episode 32: For Our Kind Leader

Hisoka: “Angels and humans are incompatible. Know your place.”

Homare: “You’re surely aware of what will happen if you persist down this path, yes?”

Tsumugi: … ——

Tasuku: (… Tsumugi?)

Tasuku: “That’s enough. I think it’s been drilled into his head by now.”

-

[Applause]

Guy: Thank you very much.

Azuma: Thank you.

Audience A: Good luck on your performance! I’ll be rooting for you!

Audience B: I’ll come see your next performance!

Tsumugi: I’m sorry, I held you all back.

Guy: It’s nothing you need to worry yourself about.

Homare: It seems you aren’t feeling very up to it today.

Hisoka: … We’ve all got days like that.

Tsumugi: But at a time like this, when we're just getting started on practice after everyone came back from taking care of what they needed to…

Tsumugi: I will go and clear my head a little.

Azuma: … It’s rare to see Tsumugi act like this.

Hisoka: … I’ve only seen it during our debut.

Homare: That is true. Perhaps Tsumugi-kun still has something he has yet to finish.

Tasuku: That might be it. If he can’t focus on acting, it must be pretty serious.

Azuma: I wonder if there’s something we can do for our Leader, who’s always so kind.

Guy: This seems like something we should temporarily open Journey for.

Hisoka: That sounds good…

-

Tsumugi: Ugh…

Tsumugi: (What am I doing… I should be getting ready for this important performance.)

Tsumugi: (Even though I understand that we as the Winter Troupe must absolutely carry the baton we received from the Spring Troupe to the goal.)

Kureha: Huh… What… Why is this…

Tsumugi: Oh? Kureha-kun?

Kureha: Ah—

Tsumugi: Hello. Are you going to work?

Kureha: Ah, no, I’m going home for the day… Oh, were you just doing a Street ACT?

Tsumugi: Yeah, did you watch it?

Kureha: No, I didn’t watch it but, umm…

Tsumugi: ?

Kureha: I’m sorry. I went on En.com, and there were lots of reactions.

Tsumugi: Ohh, they’ve already started posting reactions? I should give them a read.

Kureha: No, you don’t have to, nothing important’s been posted—

Tsumugi: …

Review: “The Winter Troupe’s Street ACT was amazing. I’m buying a ticket.”

Review: “But Tsukioka-kun’s acting wasn’t really in sync with the rest. Like he was acting by himself?”

Review: “Yeah, it felt half-hearted. I wonder if he’s not feeling well? It’s unusual, given how stable he usually is.”

Review: “I pre-ordered a ticket, but if this is how the actual performance will look, I’m not so sure they’ll get many votes.”

Review: “They made it to 11th, but the competition amongst troupes is tougher than ever now.”

Kureha: Um… Are you alright?

Tsumugi: Sorry for worrying you. Everything they’ve said is true, so I’m okay.

Kureha: The rest of us KICS and I are very grateful for all of MANKAI Company’s help.

Kureha: I was really happy to hear your kind words when it got awkward between us.

Kureha: And… You’re my precious brother’s friend, so I want to be of help to you. If there’s anything we can help you with, please let me know.

Tsumugi: Thank you. Just hearing you say that makes me happy.

Tsumugi: Be careful on your way home.

Kureha: Please excuse me.

[Kureha walks away]

[Notification blip]

Azuma: Once you’re feeling a little better, come find us at Journey.

Tsumugi: (I’m surrounded by nothing but the kindest people…)

previous episode | masterpost | next episode