Tuesday, July 31, 2012

24th STreet Theatre celebrates its 15th Season



Crossing Borders With Three International Productions
And A New Play From British Playwright Mike Kenny


(Shhh… don’t tell anyone they’re TYA)
 
Los Angeles, Calif. – July 31, 2012 – In celebration of its 15th Anniversary24th STreet Theatre is coming clean: the critically acclaimed, boundary pushing, award-winning theater they’ve been producing for 14 years has been TYA (Theater for Young Audiences) all along. Surprise! Now 24th ST, recently awarded the Peter Zeisler Memorial Award at the national TCG Conference for its “risk-taking spirit,” has decided to bite the bullet and announce a full TYA season in 2012-13.

“The theater we’re going to bring you next season is not what most Americans think of as family theater,” asserts 24th ST executive director Jay McAdams. “In fact, if we didn’t label the shows as TYA, most adults might not even know the difference. Our mission is to produce theater that parents and children can enjoy together, art that speaks to all audiences, regardless of age.”

To that end, 24th STreet Theatre will continue its practice of introducing Los Angeles to significant theater from across the border, hosting Mexico’s Viaje Redondo Producciones in the U.S. premiere of Rome at the End of the Line (Roma al Final de la Via) and Canada’s Susanna Hamnett in the Los Angeles premiere of Nearly Lear in the fall, and Mexican “Huraclown” Aziz Gual in the spring.

Most exciting, 24th STreet announces the formation of its in-house experimental theater project for young audiences, LAB24, which will produce the West Coast premiere of British playwright Mike Kenny’s Walking the Tightrope, opening in January under the direction of 24th STreet artistic director Debbie Devine.

The mission of LAB24 is to create sophisticated, provocative theater that parents can share with their kids,” McAdams says. “We are rejecting the model of TYA that panders to children with cutesy stories and happy endings, and creating our own style that takes its themes and premises from the world around us. Sometimes it seems like we’re so anxious to protect our children that we forget to teach them about loss, heartache and sadness in addition to love, happiness and joy. At 24th STreet, our work won’t look like “children’s theater,” but rather like theater that embraces the full range of emotions, theater for adults and children of all ages.”
The 24th STreet Theatre 15th Anniversary Season is as follows:

Sept, 15 – Oct. 7:
Rome at the End of the Line (Roma al Final de la Via) — 24th STreet Theatre partners with Mexico’s Viaje Redondo Producciones on the U.S. premiere of a whimsical and poignant story about friendship that spans a lifetime. Seven-year-olds Emilia and Evangelina—born a few days apart in a small Mexican town–walk together to the train tracks with the child-like hope of boarding it and traveling to Rome. From that moment, their lives are forever tied together. The two return to the tracks five more times—at ages 13, 20, 40, 60 and 80—to share their dreams, worries and love stories. Performed in Spanish with English Supertitles. (PG 13 – ages 12+)

Oct. 19-21:
Nearly Lear
 – 24th STreet Theatre brings Canada’s international touring production to the U.S. for a one weekend only Los Angeles premiere. In this mischievous one-woman tour-de-force adaptation of King Lear, Susanna Hamnett plays the Fool—and every other character—to tell a very personal and poignant story with breathtaking hilarity and heartache. Upending expectations, Nearly Lear blends exuberant storytelling, music and film with Shakespeare’s poetic text to usher the audience firmly into the heart of this great story. Welcome to a Lear that is profoundly accessible and fun, while serving the spirit, language and emotional core of the play. (Rated PG – 7+)



Jan. 26-March 31:
Walking the Tightrope – 24th STreet Theatre introduces its new in-house TYA company LAB24 with the West Coast premiereof British playwright Mike Kenny’s gentle, funny play. Five-year-old Esme arrives to stay with her grandparents at the end of summer, just like she does every year. But this time, something’s different: Nanna isn't here, and Granddad doesn't know how to tell her that Nanna isn't coming back. This magical play, full of moments of remembered childhood, explores a child's first experience with loss and celebrates the special bond shared by grandparents and grandchildren. The play was the first recipient of Art Council England's Award for Playwriting for Children & Young People (Rated G – ages 4+)

April 20-28:
Huraclown – 24th STreet Theatre hosts acclaimed Mexican clown Aziz Gual for a limited six-performance engagement. Not your ordinary, everyday clown, Aziz forges a unique connection with both adults and children, leading the audience on a hilarious, poignant and poetic journey that illuminates life’s profound sorrows and great joys. (Rated G – ages 4+)


For more information about 24th STreet Theatre’s 15th Anniversary Season, call (213) 745-6516 or visit online at www.24thstreet.org
 

Saturday, July 28, 2012

TV CRITIC'S ASSN. HANDS OUT AWARDS


The Television Critic's Association handed out its annual awards tonight and last year’s Best New Show, HBO’s Game Of Thrones, was named Program Of The Year, succeeding last year’s top winner Friday Night Lights.


Downton Abbey (PBS) was named best movie/miniseries.

Fox’s So You Think You Can Dance won for best reality series.

Best New Show went to Homeland. Claire Danes received the individual achievement in drama acting award.

AMC’s Breaking Bad won the best drama series award, while FX’s critically praised Louie was recognized as best comedy. The show's creator/star Louis C.K. earned the individual achievement in comedy prize.

ABC Family’s Switched at Birth was recognized for youth programming.

The iconic CBS program, 60 Minutes won for news and information program.

Cheers won the organization's Heritage Award and late night talk show icon, David Letterman received the Career Achievement honor.

Friday, July 27, 2012

ABC's "Dancing With The Stars" Announces Season 15 Cast, Brings Back Past Winners


 EMMITT SMITH, SEASON 3 WINNER

The all-star "Dancing With the Stars" cast was announced today for season 15, where for the first time ever, previous contestants will return to the ballroom to vie for the coveted mirror ball trophy.

Olympians and former "DWTS" winners Apolo Ohno (Season 4) and Shawn Johnson (Season 8) will show off their fancy footwork again this season, along with fellow champs from seasons' past: former 98 Degrees member Drew Lachey (Season 2), former Dallas Cowboy star Emmitt Smith (Season 3), Brazilian race car driver Helio Castroneves (Season 5) and soap star Kelly Monaco (Season 1).

Actresses Pamela Anderson (Season 10) and Kirstie Alley (Season 12), French actor and finalist Gilles Marini (Season 8), and former 'N Sync singer Joey Fatone (Season 4), are also among this season's high-wattage alumni in the competition.

Bristol Palin (Season 11), daughter of former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, and TV personality Melissa Rycroft (Season 8) round out the pack.

Another first in "Dancing" history, the 13th contestant will be decided by America in an online vote. Fashion commentator Carson Kressley (Season 13), singer Sabrina Bryan (Season 5), Disney Channel star Kyle Massey (Season 11) are vying for people's votes to score the 13th spot in the competition.

Watch "Good Morning America" Monday to see Carson Kressley, Sabrina Bryan and Kyle Massey live.

Paul Lee, president of the ABC Entertainment Group, announced the new cast at the Television Critics Association conference. The alumni's professional partners were not announced, but will be revealed Monday, Aug. 13 on "Good Morning America."

With the mix of previous champs, finalists and fan favorites in the cast, the stage is set for a heated competition and the show's long-time fans will undoubtedly be torn. Which celebrity are you rooting for this time around? Which star do you want to see in that 13th spot?

The all-star line-up will hit the dance floor on the two-hour season premiere of "Dancing With the Stars" Monday, Sept. 24 at 8 p.m. ET. The couple with the lowest combined judges' scores and public votes for their performance will be sent home in the season premiere of "Dancing With the Stars: The Results Show."

The Jacksons Startin Something At The Greek Theatre


Tito, Jackie, Marlon and Jermaine Jackson

It was a cool night at the Greek Theater in Los Angeles until The Jacksons took the stage and the atmosphere became HOT!!!

The lights went down, the music kicked in and the shadowed images of four men appeared on the massive stage.

Dressed in mostly black, highlighted with sparkles in strategic parts of their garments, Jackie, Tito, Jermaine and Marlon Jackson, four of the original members of The Jackson 5 wowed an appreciative crowd that came out to see whether, after three decades the brothers could still hold their own on stage.

Well, the Jacksons didn’t disappoint!  It was clear with this Unity Tour 2012 that they haven’t lost their stage presence, their dance moves, passion or their voices. Jermaine, in particular, sounds just as good, if not better, as he did when the brothers started out at Motown in the late 60s. 

The Jacksons opened up with a video featuring them as a backdrop before launching into “Can You Feel It,” which brought the crowd to its feet.

From there it was quite evident just how successful The Jacksons were in their heyday as they moved, effortlessly, through hit after hit.

The song repertoire included: “Blame It On The Boogie,” “Let Me Show You Where to Go,” “You Are My Lovely One”. They then slowed down the show a bit with “Looking Through the Window” and “Time Waits For No One.”

Of course, the brothers couldn’t do a show without paying homage to their brother, The King of Pop Michael Jackson.  As footage loomed on the massive video screen, an emotional Jermaine sang, “Gone To Soon,” a song from Michael Jackson’s 1991 “Dangerous” album that has become his own eulogy.

The crowd was on its feet every time a picture of Michael flashed on the screen.

With finely tuned harmony, thorough choreograph and precision cues, The Jacksons mastered the stage just like they did in times of old.  It was nostalgic and a joy to watch the brothers come together.

The crowd went wild when the brothers sang a medley of their hits that put them on the map. Songs like “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” “Never Can Say Goodbye” and “I’ll Be There”.

Marlon, who demonstrated he still had the moves, served as a host of sorts for the concert.  He thanked all of his brothers for agreeing to do the concert tour.

Jermaine Jackson, who had a successful solo career in the late 1970s and ’80s, sang his own segment of the concert, including his hits, “Dynamite,” “Let’s Get Serious” and  “Do What You Do.”

After Jermaine’s solo, the show kicked back into gear with “Heartbreak Hotel” and “Don’t Stop Til You Get Enough”.

The show’s encore was the fun-filled “Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground)”.

There are only three more dates on The Jackson Unity Tour 2012. If the response they received at the Greek in Los Angeles is any indication, Unity Tour Part 11 is somewhere in the distant future.

Thursday, July 26, 2012

The Indecent To Release Debut Warner Bros Records EP "Control" September 18, 2012

Newly-signed Warner Bros Records artists The Indecent will be releasing their debut EP "Control" on September 18, 2012. The title track recently premiered via Nylon magazine:

Born and raised in New York City, triplets Emily, Bo and Maddy Brout were influenced by the sounds of Sonic Youth, Black Sabbath and Jefferson Airplane from an early age. The Brouts discovered guitars at the age of eight and started writing songs as a hobby, eventually becoming The Indecent when producer/A&R Tim Sommer - who helped develop acts like the Beastie Boys and Maroon 5 - paired them up with drummer Nick Burrows.

The Indecent posted their homemade recordings online and immediately began drawing comparisons that ranged from grunge icons like Nirvana to proto-punk acts like Patti Smith. On the strength of these demos alone the foursome toured throughout the UK, landing on the cover of British fashion mag Disorder, and recently they took the stage in New York for Joey Ramone's Annual Birthday Bash at Webster Hall.

Recorded at Lightning Sound and East West Recording Studios in LA with WBR Chairman Rob Cavallo and Julian Raymond, "Control" is five songs of unbridled energy and aggression that's rooted in rock's gritty past while still stretching toward its future: their music sounds like Seattle grunge and New York in the 70's had a baby through an 18 year-old surrogate in 2012.

Listen and learn more about The Indecent: www.theindecent.com, www.facebook.com/theindecent 


THE PASADENA PLAYHOUSE IN ASSOCIATION WITH DAVID SHOR ANNOUNCES BEN TOTH AND SAM FOREMAN AS COMPOSER AND LYRICIST FOR THE WORLD PREMIERE OF SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE – THE MUSICAL


AT THE PASADENA PLAYHOUSE
PERFORMING JUNE – JULY, 2013
AND FEATURING
BOOK BY FILM’S ORIGINAL SCREENWRITER JEFF ARCH
AND DIRECTED BY LONNY PRICE


PASADENA, CA (July 26, 2011) – The Pasadena Playhouse (Sheldon Epps, Artistic 
Director and Charles Dillingham, Interim Executive Director), in association 
with David Shor, announced today that Ben Toth and Sam Foreman have been named 
the new composer and lyricist of SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE – THE MUSICAL. They join 
the previously announced Lonny Price as director, Jeff Arch as book writer, and 
Eric Stern as musical director.  The world premiere of SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE – 
THE MUSICAL is set to close the 2012 - 2013 season with performances beginning 
in June at The Pasadena Playhouse (39 S. El Molino).

“We are proud to have Ben and Sam, two strong artists with solid pasts, strong 
presents and amazing futures, join the Sleepless creative team, “ said director 
Lonny Price. “We are thick into creating the new musical. The plan is to hold a 
reading this fall, make changes then do another reading during the winter and 
incorporate additional changes prior to beginning rehearsals in May.”

Ben Toth has served as a musical director/vocal coach/producer for some of the 
most popular actor/singers currently working on the stage, including “Glee’s” 
Lea Michele and Idina Menzel, Beau Bridges, “Mad Men’s” Christina Hendricks, 
Taye Diggs and Mandy Patinkin, with whom he performed to critical acclaim at the 
Duke of York’s Theatre in London’s West End. Ben just completed the score for 
Liberal Arts, a feature film starring Zac Efron, Allison Janney and Josh Radnor, 
opening in the US and UK in late 2012.

Sam Foreman is the lyricist and co-book author for the musical I Sing! which has 
been produced commercially Off-Broadway and in theatres around the world. A 
writer for the stage, screen, and television, Sam co-created (with Beau 
Willimon) the Civil War era television pilot “Hickory Hill” for AMC.

SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE – THE MUSICAL has a book by Jeff Arch, Shor’s longtime 
business partner, who penned the film’s original story and co-wrote the 
screenplay, sharing 1994 Oscar, BAFTA and WGA nominations with Nora Ephron and 
David Ward. 

SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE – THE MUSICAL centers around Sam, a widower and single 
father. When Sam's son, Jonah calls into a talk radio program looking for a new 
mother, Sam ends up getting on the phone and laments about his lost love. 
Thousands of miles away in Baltimore, Annie hears the program and immediately 
falls in love with Sam, despite the fact that she has never met him and that she 
is engaged to another man. Believing they are meant to be together, Annie sets 
out for Seattle to meet Sam, who, meanwhile, contends with an onslaught of 
letters from available women equally touched by his phone call.

The American Film Institute (AFI) lists SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE among the Top 10 
Best Romantic Comedies of all time and the film grossed over $227 million 
dollars worldwide. The film was nominated for two Academy Awards, two BAFTA 
Awards, three Golden Globe Awards, four MTV Movie Awards, one Writers Guild of 
America Award, and won an American Comedy Award and a Casting Society of America 
Award. SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE is based on the 1957 film An Affair to Remember 
starring Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr.

Tickets are currently available by subscription only.  Single ticket on sale 
date and prices, full casting and creative team will be announced at a later 
date.

The Pasadena Playhouse is located at 39 South El Molino Avenue in Pasadena.  
Subscriptions are available for purchase at www.PasadenaPlayhouse.org, by 
calling the Box Office at 626-356-7529 or by visiting The Pasadena Playhouse Box 
Office.  The Box Office is open Tuesday – Sunday from 12:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. 
during non-performance dates; Monday from 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Tuesday – 
Sunday from 12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. on performance dates.  Group subscriptions 
are also available. 

TICKETS FOR “ELEPHANT ROOM” GO ON SALE THURSDAY, JULY 26


WEST COAST PREMIERE AT THE KIRK DOUGLAS THEATRE
Performances Run August 22 through September 16, 2012

Tickets go on sale Thursday, July 26 for “Elephant Room” at the Kirk Douglas Theatre.  Bringing pure, unadulterated fun and transforming the space into a mystical place of wonder and amusement, “Elephant Room” runs August 22 through September 16, 2012.  The opening is set for August 26.
The West Coast premiere of this “enchantingly goofy collaboration” (Alexis Soloski, Village Voice) by Trey Lyford, Geoff Sobelle and Steve Cuiffo will star magicians Louie Magic, Daryl Hannah and Dennis Diamond, and is directed by Paul Lazar. 

By turns fresh, silly and profound, “Elephant Room” is set in a basement rec room where three semi-pro conjurers hang out and practice their tricks with varying competence.  These self-deluded illusionists are brimming with childlike wonder and undeserved self-confidence, but there is something mysterious about their Elephant Room. Things are not as they seem.  “It gets weird, but it’s an enjoyable, laugh-out-loud kind of weird,” said Gwendolyn Purdom, of the Washingtonian. Eric Grode of The New York Times said, “. . . their lovable-loser shtick as well as their nifty skills help turn ‘Elephant Room’ into one of the coolest places in town."

Friday, July 20, 2012

CAST IS SET FOR BROADWAY’S MAGICAL HIT MUSICAL “MARY POPPINS” AT THE CTG/AHMANSON THEATRE

“Mary Poppins” Returns to Los Angeles for Four Weeks Only Beginning August 9

Center Theatre Group and producers Thomas Schumacher of Disney Theatrical Productions and Cameron Mackintosh are pleased to announce full casting for the award-winning musical “Mary Poppins” at the Center Theatre Group/Ahmanson Theatre in Los Angeles. “Mary Poppins” begins performances August 9 and continues through September 2, 2012, as a bonus option to the 2011-2012 Ahmanson season. Press Opening Night is set for Friday, August 10 at 7:30 p.m. 


Rachel Wallace will star as Mary Poppins while original Broadway company member Nicolas Dromard will assume the role of Bert. Joining them will be Michael Dean Morgan as George Banks, Elizabeth Broadhurst as Winifred Banks, Tregoney Shepherd as Mrs. Brill, Blake Segal as Robertson Ay, Q. Smith as Miss Andrew and The Bird Woman, and Ryan Hilliard as Admiral Boom and the Bank Chairman. Performances in the role of Jane Banks will be alternated between Marissa Ackerman and Cherish Myers.  Performances in the role of Michael Banks will be alternated between Zach Timson and Zachary Mackiewicz. 
Rounding out the cast are Benn Atkin, Danielle Benton, Elizabeth Ann Berg, Lindsey Bliven, Ian Campayno, Ben Cherry, Keyy Conte, Emily Cramer, Sean Patrick Doyle, Andrew Eckert, Jordan Grubb, Kenway Hon Wai K. Kua, Con O’Shea-Creal, James Patterson, Tonya Thompson, James Tolbert, Paige Williams, Minami Yusui, Elizabeth Earley, Billy Griffin, Annie Petersmeyer and Stephen Roberts.

Thursday, July 19, 2012

“HOW OBAMA GOT HIS GROOVE BACK”: WORLD PREMIERE COMEDY ON AUGUST 18 AT FREMONT CENTRE THEATRE


            Just in time for the Republican and Democratic national conventions, City in a Swamp Productions returns to the Fremont Centre Theatre this August with a new comedy, How Obama Got His Groove Back. The show, written by Nicholas Zill and Derek Jeremiah Reid, directed by Derek Reid and assistant directed by Caitlin Hart, provides a behind-the-scenes look at the current occupant of the White House and his main rival.
            It turns out that even Presidents get the blues, or—in Barack Obama’s case—the blahs. Fighting the Republicans is getting old, and while Barack finds running for president exciting, being president has gotten pretty tiresome. Remembering how he thrilled audiences when he sang at the Apollo Theater and at a White House blues concert, Barack decides to embark on a career as a soul singer and music educator, putting the country in Michelle’s capable hands.
            Meanwhile, Mitt Romney tries to spruce up his persona with improv classes in the hopes of becoming funnier and more relaxed with average folks. An unexpected White House encounter between Barack and Mitt leads to some unusual jousting, giving Barack second thoughts about his change-of-career plans.
            Derek Reid and Caitlin Hart direct a cast that includes (in alphabetical order) Natascha Corrigan, Courtney DeCosky, Brent Pope, Constance Reese, Derek Jeremiah Reid (as Obama), Chris Smith and Phillip Wilburn.
               The writers are Nicholas Zill and Derek Jeremiah Reid , who co-wrote Oh, Momma! And Obama, which played at the Fremont in 2011. Zill also wrote—with contributions from Reid – the book and lyrics for Rock ‘N’ Ridicule, which played at L.A.’s Acme Comedy Theater in 2010.
            Director Derek Reid started doing comedy in Austin, Texas at Esther’s Follies. He studied at The Groundlings and Upright Citizens Brigade. He has recently been the director of Hashtag, a mainstage featured sketch team, and a regular writer and performer in Top Story! Weekly both at the iO West Theater in Hollywood. He is the founder and creative director of Dead Honkey, a comedy group that has performed at Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York sketch festivals.     
            Assistant Director Caitlin Hart is a graduate of Aquinas College and completed training at Atlantic Theatre Company’s Conservatory. She is Co-Artistic Director of A-Z Productions. Her directing credits include Down in the Face of God, Springtime, Mud, The Drowned World, Phenomenon of Decline, The Next Available Operator and much more.
              Graphic design: Mike Rimbaud. Lighting design: Carol Doehring. Sound design: Grady Hutt. Wigs/ Hair design/ Make-up: Judi Lewin. Set design/ Properties: Marie Miller. Costume design: Lois Tedrow.
            City in a Swamp Productions is based in Washington, DC and specializes in producing political satire and musical comedy. How Obama Got His Groove Back is the company’s third show in the LA area. Information on past productions is at www.cityinaswamp.com
            Fremont Centre Theatre, 1000 Fremont Ave. (at El Centro), South Pasadena, CA 91030. Ample free parking behind theatre. Opens Saturday, August 18, 2012 at 8 p.m., runs through Sunday, October 7. Regular show times: Fri. & Sat. at 8, Sun. at 3. ADMISSION: $30. Students $25. Except Gala Opening Night Saturday, August 18, when all seats will be $34.99 (includes reception).
RESERVATIONS: (866) 811-4111, toll-free.  ONLINE TICKETING: www.fremontcentretheatre.com

UNCONDITIONAL- INSPIRED BY TRUE EVENTS WILL HIT THEATERS THIS SEPTEMBER



Debuting in theaters nationwide September 21, 2012, Unconditional Joins Forces with Ministries Serving At-Risk Children & Youth Through Its ACT Campaign

ATLANTA, Georgia. (July 16, 2012) – Liquid Soul Media presents the captivating drama Unconditional, starring Lynn Collins (X-Men Origins: Wolverine, 50 First Dates, and The Lake House) and Michael Ealy (Think Like a Man, Seven Pounds, 2 Fast 2 Furious, and Barbershop). This inspiring film releases in theaters September 21, and encourages viewers to make a difference in their own communities through its ACT campaign.

When describing the heart of the film, producers Jason Atkins and J. Wesley Legg state that, “No matter how dark your circumstance, working for those forgotten by society brings hope and turns servants into heroes.”

The two also developed Liquid Soul Media with the intent on producing entertainment in a true, noble, right, pure, lovely and admirable way. Unconditional serves as its first production and was developed and produced in Nashville, Tenn.

Written and directed by Brent McCorkle, the film tells the story of Samantha Crawford (Lynn Collins), an acclaimed storybook artist, who seemingly had it all until she lost the love she cherished the most. When Sam’s storybook marriage is ripped away from her, she loses her faith and her will to live. Now fighting with despair, Samantha is obsessed with tracking down the murderer of her husband. However, a death-defying encounter with two children leads to a reunion with her oldest friend, Joe Bradford (Michael Ealy)… and begins Sam’s journey back toward God’s unconditional love.

Slowly dying of kidney disease, “Papa” Joe spends his last days serving fatherless children in the under-resourced community where he lives. Observing “Papa” Joe’s tireless love for “his” kids, Sam begins to find new purpose…until she comes face to face with her biggest fear. While she’s drawn to the innocence and hope of a child she’s befriended, the opportunity for revenge is strong.

Unconditional is a stirring film that will touch audiences and challenge them to consider what is most important in their own lives. The movie’s heartfelt themes include reconciliation, second chances, forgiveness, sacrifice and the true meaning of unconditional love.

Modeled after the real-life of “Papa” Joe, Unconditional serves not only to entertain but also inspire moviegoers to serve in areas of need just like Joe Bradford. Currently, Joe Bradford serves seven at-risk communities in and around Nashville through his ministry Elijah’s Heart. It is through this ministry that he champions a citywide multi-racial choir and coordinates walks of love where food and clothing are provided to those in need. 

“My dream is that Unconditional inspires cities to unite in love to rescue one of our most precious commodities: thousands of at-risk and fatherless children torn by poverty and oppression,” says Bradford.

Motivated by Bradford’s philanthropic endeavors, Unconditional launched its ACT campaign. The ACT campaign encourages moviegoers to serve alongside scores of non-profit organizations and ministries in their community. Audiences are directed to the film’s site to find where they can serve, while organizations are also encouraged to sign up and become partners with the film and its message. Opportunities to learn more about giving, volunteering, sharing and following are provided at http://unconditionalthemovie.com/act.  

For more information regarding Unconditional, please visit:

Unconditional the Movie: www.unconditonalthemovie.com
Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/unconditionalthemovie
Twitter Page: https://twitter.com/#!/unconmovie
Link to Papa Joe’s foundation: http://elijahsheart.com/

64th Prime Time Emmy Awards Announced

Kerry Washington and Jimmy Kimmel announced the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences’ nominations for the 64th Prime Time Emmy Awards this morning. HBO picked up 81 noms for Boardwalk Empire, Game of Thrones, Girls and Veep.

The Emmys will be broadcast live on ABC on Sept. 23 at the Nokia Theatre. Jimmy Kimmel is set to host.

Drama Series: "Boardwalk Empire," HBO; "Breaking Bad," AMC; "Downton Abbey," PBS; "Game of Thrones," HBO; "Homeland," Showtime; "Mad Men," AMC.

Comedy Series: "The Big Bang Theory," CBS; "Curb Your Enthusiasm," HBO; "Girls," HBO; "Modern Family," ABC; "30 Rock," NBC; "Veep," HBO.

Miniseries or Made-for-TV Movie: "American Horror Story," FX Networks; "Game Change," HBO; "Hatfields & McCoys," History; "Hemingway & Gellhorn," HBO; "Luther," BBC America; "Sherlock: A Scandal in Belgravia (Masterpiece)," PBS.

Actor, Drama Series: Steve Buscemi, "Boardwalk Empire," HBO; Bryan Cranston, "Breaking Bad," AMC; Michael C. Hall, "Dexter," Showtime; Hugh Bonneville, "Downton Abbey," PBS; Damian Lewis, "Homeland," Showtime; Jon Hamm, "Mad Men," AMC.

Actress, Drama Series: Glenn Close, "Damages," DirecTV; Michelle Dockery, "Downton Abbey," PBS; Julianna Margulies, "The Good Wife," CBS; Kathy Bates, "Harry's Law," NBC; Claire Danes, "Homeland," Showtime; Elisabeth Moss, "Mad Men," AMC.

Supporting Actor, Drama Series: Aaron Paul, "Breaking Bad," AMC; Giancarlo Esposito, "Breaking Bad," AMC; Brendan Coyle, "Downton Abbey," PBS; Jim Carter, "Downton Abbey," PBS; Peter Dinklage, "Game of Thrones," HBO; Jared Harris, "Mad Men," AMC.

Supporting Actress, Drama Series: Anna Gunn, "Breaking Bad," AMC; Maggie Smith, "Downton Abbey," PBS; Joanne Froggatt, "Downton Abbey," PBS; Archie Panjabi, "The Good Wife," CBS; Christine Baranski, "The Good Wife," CBS; Christina Hendricks, "Mad Men," AMC.

Actor, Comedy Series: Jim Parsons, "The Big Bang Theory," CBS; Larry David, "Curb Your Enthusiasm," HBO; Don Cheadle, "House of Lies," Showtime; Louis C.K., "Louie," FX Networks; Alec Baldwin, "30 Rock," NBC; Jon Cryer, "Two and a Half Men," CBS.

Actress, Comedy Series: Lena Dunham, "Girls," HB0: Melissa McCarthy, "Mike & Molly," CBS; Zooey Deschanel, "New Girl," Fox; Edie Falco, "Nurse Jackie," Showtime; "Parks and Recreation," NBC; Amy Poehler, "Parks and Recreation," NBC; Tina Fey, "30 Rock," NBC; Julia Louis-Dreyfus, "Veep, HBO.

Supporting Actor, Comedy Series: Ed O'Neill, "Modern Family," ABC; Jesse Tyler Ferguson, "Modern Family," ABC; Ty Burrell, "Modern Family," ABC; Eric Stonestreet, "Modern Family," ABC; Max Greenfield, "New Girl," Fox; Bill Hader, "Saturday Night Live," NBC.

Supporting Actress, Comedy Series: Mayim Bialik, "The Big Bang Theory," CBS; Kathryn Joosten, "Desperate Housewives," ABC; Julie Bowen, "Modern Family," ABC; Sofia Vergara, "Modern Family," ABC; Merritt Wever, "Nurse Jackie," Showtime; Kristen Wiig, "Saturday Night Live," NBC.

Actor, Miniseries or Movie: Woody Harrelson, "Game Change," HBO; Kevin Costner, "Hatfields & McCoys," History; Bill Paxton, "Hatfields & McCoys," History; Clive Owen, "Hemingway & Gellhorn," HBO; Idris Elba, "Luther," BBC America; Benedict Cumberbatch, "Sherlock: A Scandal in Belgravia (Masterpiece)," PBS.

Actress, Miniseries or Movie: Connie Britton, "American Horror Story," FX Networks; Julianne Moore, "Game Change," HBO; Nicole Kidman, "Hemingway & Gellhorn," HBO; Ashley Judd, "Missing," ABC; Emma Thompson, "The Song of Lunch (Masterpiece), PBS.

Supporting Actor, Miniseries or Movie: Denis O'Hare, "American Horror Story," FX Networks; Ed Harris, "Game Change," HBO; Tom Berenger, "Hatfields & McCoys," History; David Strathairn, "Hemingway & Gellhorn," HBO; Martin Freeman, "Sherlock: A Scandal in Belgravia (Masterpiece)," PBS.

Supporting Actress, Miniseries or Movie: Frances Conroy, "American Horror Story," FX Networks; Jessica Lange, "American Horror Story," FX Networks; Sarah Paulson, "Game Change," HBO; Mare Winningham, "Hatfields & McCoys," History; Judy Davis, "Page Eight (Masterpiece)," PBS.

Reality Program: "Antiques Roadshow," PBS; "Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution," ABC; "MythBusters," Discovery Channel; "Undercover Boss," CBS; "Who Do You Think You Are?," NBC.

Reality-Competition Program: "The Amazing Race," CBS; "Dancing With the Stars," ABC; "Project Runway," Lifetime; "So You Think You Can Dance," Fox; "Top Chef," Bravo; "The Voice," NBC.

Variety, Music or Comedy Series: "The Colbert Report," Comedy Central; "The Daily Show With Jon Stewart," Comedy Central; "Jimmy Kimmel Live," ABC; "Late Night With Jimmy Fallon," NBC; "Real Time With Bill Maher," HBO; "Saturday Night Live," NBC.

Children's Program: "Degrassi," TeenNick; "Good Luck Charlie," Disney Channel; "iCarly," Nickelodeon; "Victorious," Nickelodeon; "Wizards Of Waverly Place," Disney Channel.


Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Prolific And Adventurous Bromberg Salutes A Pair Of Legends On Two New Albums


“Bromberg Plays Hendrix” and “In The Spirit Of Jobim” continues the diverse bassist’s extraordinary summer

Sherman Oaks, CA (18 July 2012): It’s no ordinary summer for bassist Brian Bromberg, who yesterday released his second and third albums this summer via Artistry Music/Mack Avenue Records.  “Bromberg Plays Hendrix” and “In The Spirit Of Jobim” pay tribute to music icons Jimi Hendrix and Antonio Carlos Jobim respectively and arrive six weeks after the release of the bass player’s critically acclaimed chart-topper “Compared To That” as well as the launch of his pioneering online radio station for bassists, Bass on the Broadband (www.bassonthebroadband.com).  The immense diversity offered in the trio of new recordings impresses through content and technique while achieving successes in all shades of jazz.

The audacious “Bromberg Plays Hendrix” surprises in that the collection saluting the rock/blues guitarist was made without a single guitar.  Accompanied only by monster drummer Vinnie Colaiuta, Bromberg plays all the lead guitar solos and melodies on piccolo, fretless, electric and acoustic basses in what becomes an astonishing showcase for the musician’s masterful and imaginative skills.  Bromberg produced the record comprised of ten of Hendrix’s signature hits including “Fire,” “Manic Depression,” “The Wind Cries Mary,” “All Along The Watchtower,” “Foxey Lady,” “Hey Joe” and “Purple Haze.”  The concept for the album was suggested by two different record executives from two different cultures two years apart.  It turned out to be far more challenging than Bromberg anticipated. 

“Hendrix didn’t just sing melodies; he spoke to you.  He was a true genius and a true American icon.  It was monumentally challenging and it took a while to figure out how to capture his delivery and distill the melodies from his vocals,” explains Bromberg.

Venturing on an entirely different path, “In The Spirit Of Jobim” offers fresh versions of five of the seminal Brazilian music figure’s songs alongside seven Bromberg-penned originals that emulate Jobim’s breezy melodies and infectious rhythmic style.  Bromberg handled production duties while surrounding himself with Brazilian musicians and The Rising Sun Orchestra in order to maintain authenticity. 

“I love Brazilian music and it’s a blast to play live.  The music is so positive and energetic.  The
songs are simple and melodic.  It’s just beautiful,” says Bromberg.      

Initially released in Asian territories, Bromberg recut, remixed and remastered “Bromberg Plays Hendrix” and “In The Spirit Of Jobim” using his signature line of Carvin basses. 

Released June 5th, “Compared To That” topped JazzWeek’s traditional jazz album chart and spawned the top 5 contemporary jazz single, “Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?”  The collection of improvisational contemporary and straight-ahead jazz recorded live followed by several months of production work features Bromberg dispensing walking bass lines that swing backed by an accomplished supporting cast starring Colaiuta, Alex Acuña, Gannin Arnold, Charlie Bisharat, Randy Brecker, George Duke, Bela Fleck, Mitch Forman, Larry Goldings, Jeff Lorber, Gary Meek and Tom Zink.

Bass on the Broadband is the first outlet in the world exclusively devoted to playing music and video clips from bassists in all music genres.  It officially debuted in June.

Next month, Bromberg is expected to embark upon an East Coast promotional tour with cities and dates soon to be announced.   
     
BRIAN BROMBERG
photo: Raj Naik

Below is a sampling of the “Bromberg Plays Hendrix” and “In The Spirit Of Jobim” reviews:

“Having often said, ‘Genius reviews itself’ - Bromberg plays Hendrix where one musical genius does a riff off another musical genius.  The stunning artistic feel and virtuosity is on display throughout this release with no drop offs in intensity anywhere…From the lyrical connectivity of ‘The Wind Cries Mary’ to the full on ‘Purple Haze’ Bromberg plays Hendrix is guaranteed to touch your heart and set your hair on fire all at the same time!” – Critical Jazz

“This is rock jazz fusion at its very best.  What has been done here is amazing…This is a powerful tribute that brings Hendrix back to life in the musical form and in a completely innovative manner.  Every cut on the CD is a masterpiece...I was spellbound the entire time during the solos from the first track ‘Fire’ to the very last, ‘Purple Haze.’…Whether you lean towards jazz or rock (or any other genre), Brian Bromberg raises the bar on what a bass player is and what can been done with the instrument, as he sets a new standard just like Jimi Hendrix did.  Tremendous!” – The Entertainment Bank

“Now we’re talkin’ insane talent. Picture this: Covering a bunch of Jimi Hendrix classics with only a bass and drums, no guitar.  All of the wild and passionate riffs, chords, and fire, all of the innovative phrasing, all of the energy…produced on bass.  That insanely talented bassist?  Brian BrombergFrom the frenetic lead track ‘Fire’ to ‘Foxy Lady’ to ‘Purple Haze’ and everywhere in between, Bromberg fearlessly takes on the undisputed rock/blues guitar icon of icons and delivers in a manner that surely would have made the colorful guitarist proud and will leave listeners wide-eyed and awestruck.” – The Smooth Jazz Ride

“When one thinks of the music of Jimi Hendrix, bass is not exactly what comes to mind, but you know, sometimes genius is found in the oddest of pairings.  Brian Bromberg has achieved such genius on his new album, ‘Bromberg Plays Hendrix’.  What’s most notable here is the fact that there is no guitar on this album, just Bromberg playing electric, acoustic, and piccolo basses, accompanied by powerhouse drummer Vinnie Colaiuta.  Bromberg’s piccolo bass lines on this album are so phenomenal that you’d swear it was a lead guitar.  Not to be overshadowed, his fat, grooving ‘traditional’ bass lines rock steady throughout, breathing new life into each piece.” - Bass Players United

Except for a few little vocal refrains on ‘Fire’ and ‘Crosstown Traffic,’ it’s all instrumentals here, and it actually works better than the originals in a myriad of ways.  ‘Hey Joe’ sounds bluesy and foreboding, while ‘Spanish Castle Magic’ ferociously swings with attitude.  Lots of wistfulness on ‘The Wind Cries Mary,’ and throughout the session, the sounds you hear will make you scratch your head in bewilderment.  This is a bass?  I want one!!!!” – Jazz Weekly

“Bromberg does a masterful job on five Jobim classics…In The Spirit of Jobim is about passion and a shared musical joy and for this reason alone this release gets 5 huge stars.  Virtually flawless from start to finish and from my perspective possibly the finest Brian Bromberg release ever.” – Critical Jazz

“Virtuoso bassist Brian Bromberg delivers a beautiful recording of the great music of Brazil…Brian Bromberg honors this music with a stellar recording that gets my highest recommendation.  He is truly a master bassist and musical tour de force.” – The Entertainment Bank

“Not only are we talking prolific, the feel and attention he gave this particular material shows the depth of his creativity and desire to do Jobim justice…On this CD, he delivers flawlessly on Jobim’s original pearls and caresses them as if they were his own.” – The Smooth Jazz Ride


For more information about Bromberg, please visit www.brianbromberg.net

Tuesday, July 17, 2012

"The Dark Knight Rises" Set To Open July 20


Warner Bros. Pictures’ and Legendary Pictures’ “The Dark Knight Rises” is the epic conclusion to filmmaker Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight trilogy.

It has been eight years since Batman vanished into the night, turning, in that instant, from hero to fugitive. Assuming the blame for the death of D.A. Harvey Dent, the Dark Knight sacrificed everything for what he and Commissioner Gordon both hoped was the greater good. For a time the lie worked, as criminal activity in Gotham City was crushed under the weight of the anti-crime Dent Act.

L-r: MORGAN FREEMAN as Lucius Fox and CHRISTIAN BALE as Bruce Wayne in Warner Bros. Pictures’ and Legendary Pictures’ action thriller “THE DARK KNIGHT RISES,” a Warner Bros. Pictures release. TM & © DC Comics.


But everything will change with the arrival of a cunning cat burglar with a mysterious agenda. Far more dangerous, however, is the emergence of Bane, a masked terrorist whose ruthless plans for Gotham drive Bruce out of his self-imposed exile. But even if he dons the cape and cowl again, Batman may be no match for Bane.

EBONY REPERTORY THEATRE PRESENTS THE LOS ANGELES PREMIERE OF JEFF STETSON’S “FRATERNITY” DIRECTED BY HENRY MILLER



PREVIEW PERFORMANCES BEGIN OCTOBER 3, 2012
WITH THE OFFICIAL PRESS OPENING ON OCTOBER 5, 2012
AT THE NATE HOLDEN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

Ebony Repertory Theatre (ERT - Founder/Producer Wren T. Brown), now in its fifth year, announced today, that they will present the Los Angeles Premiere of FRATERNITY by internationally acclaimed, award-winning playwright/screenwriter Jeff Stetson (Keep the Faith and And the Men
Shall Also Gather).  Henry Miller (James Baldwin’s The Amen Corner) is set to direct
this riveting award-winning political drama.  FRATERNITY will play October 3 – 28,
2012, with the official press opening on Friday, October 5 at the Nate Holden Performing
Arts Center (4718 W. Washington Blvd.) in Los Angeles.  

“I have been greatly fortunate to have a personal and professional relationship with Jeff
Stetson for over twenty-five years. The opportunity for Ebony Repertory Theatre to
produce the Los Angeles premiere of FRATERNITY, brings me particular satisfaction.
Not only is Jeff a brilliant writer, in my opinion, he is a man of great integrity,
courage, intelligence, passion, and loyalty,” said Wren T. Brown, Ebony Repertory
Theatre, Founder/Producer.  “In addition, having a director helming our production with
the kind of artistry, history and dimension possessed by Henry Miller, causes me to move
most excitedly to our first day of rehearsal.”

Three weeks after Dr. King’s seminal “I Have A Dream” speech, a bomb destroyed an
Alabama church, murdering four young girls and shattering the dream that had inspired
so many.  Set in a private club in 1987, Jeff Stetson’s FRATERNITY explores the
journeys of seven successful black community leaders whose lives were forever affected
by that tragedy. It examines what happens to those who seek power, privilege and
inclusion, while abandoning the sacrifices that made their success possible.
Page 2 - Ebony Repertory Theatre Presents the Los Angeles Premiere of
Jeff Stetson’s FRATERNITY

Playwright Jeff Stetson is an internationally acclaimed award-winning playwright and
screenwriter for film and television. His stage plays include: Keep the Faith, a musical on
the life and times of Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. (commissioned through a hundred-
thousand dollar grant by the PEW Foundation and Theater Communications Group);
Fathers and Other Strangers (recipient of Columbia College’s Theodore Ward Award);
And the Men Shall Also Gather,  (developed at the O’Neill National Conference under
the direction of Lloyd Richards); To Play a Black Man (nominated for four Image
Awards); Love You Better, (commissioned by the Kennedy Center); The Apology,
(commissioned by Bill Cosby); and The Meeting, which has been produced in all fifty-
states and more than a dozen countries including South Africa, the Netherlands, Canada,
the Virgin Islands, Nigeria, Scotland, United Kingdom, Brazil and Austria.  It received
eight N.A.A.C.P. Image Awards, including best play and best writer, a Louis B. Mayer
Award and an Ohio State Achievement Award. He adapted the play for P.B.S. and
American Playhouse where it received an Emmy award for technical achievement. (A
full bio is available upon request.)
Director Henry Miller has staged more than 30 Off-Off Broadway and regional theatre
productions, including his own Christmas Eve Companion Plays.  Among his directorial
contributions to the African American canon of drama are James Baldwin’s The Amen
Corner; Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun; Philip Hayes Dean’s Sty of the Blind
Pig and Every Night When the Sun Goes Down; Richard Wesley’s The Mighty Gents, and
Richard Wright’s Daddy Goodness.  His musical directing ventures include Kurt Weill
and Maxwell Anderson’s Lost in the Stars for the Opera Ebony Company, and George
Gershwin and DuBose Heyward’s opera Porgy and Bess for the Indianapolis Opera and
the Opera Company of Philadelphia.  (A full bio is available upon request.)

Casting and the design team for Ebony Repertory Theatre’s production of
FRATERNITY will be announced at a later date.

FRATERNITY originally opened at the Whole Theater (Olympia Dukakis, Producing
Artistic Director) in Montclair, New Jersey in 1989.   The world premiere was directed
by Clinton Turner Davis.

Ebony Repertory Theatre, now in its fifth year, is the resident company and operator of
the Nate Holden Performing Arts Center, which is located at 4718 West Washington
Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90016.  FRATERNITY plays October 3 – 28, 2012, with
the official press opening on Friday, October 5.  The performance schedule is Thursday
and Friday at 8:00 p.m., Saturday at 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. and Sunday at 3:00 p.m. 
Early Bird Special tickets are on sale now and are $45.00 for Premium, $40.00 for
Orchestra and $30.00 for Mezzanine if purchased by September 7, 2012. All tickets for
preview performances are $30.00. Regular price tickets take effect September 8, 2012
and range from $35 - $55. Single tickets go on sale Tuesday, July 17, 2012 and are
available through the theatre box office at 323-964-9766 or online at www.ebonyrep.org. 
Groups of 10 or more are available at 323-964-9592 or by email at
groups@ebonyrep.org.

#   #   #

Thursday, July 12, 2012

Submissions For 19th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards® Nominations Are Now Open and For The First Time Will Be Accepted Only Online


Submissions of performances for consideration for the 19th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards® nominations are now open online at sagawards.org/submissions, it was announced today by SAG Awards® Committee Chair JoBeth Williams. For the first time, submissions will be accepted online only. Submissions will close on Thursday, Oct. 25, at 5 p.m. (PST),

“Implementing an online submissions only policy this year reflects SAG Awards continuing commitment to environmentally sound practices,” Williams explains. The SAG Awards was honored in 2009, 2010 and 2011 with the Environmental Media Association (EMA)’s Green Seal, recognizing a production’s outstanding efforts to implement sustainable initiatives and promote environmental awareness. Online submissions for Actor® nominations have been available since the 9th SAG Awards. Actors and their representatives were advised this time last year that an online submissions only policy would be implemented as of the 19th Annual SAG Awards and were encouraged to try the online procedure if they had not previously done so.

The Screen Actors Guild Award—The Actor®—is presented by SAG-AFTRA for outstanding performances in motion pictures and primetime television.  Actors may submit their own performances from 2012 for consideration in categories of the actor’s choosing. With the actor’s permission, producers, studios/networks, agents, managers, or publicists may also submit performances for consideration in the category designated by the actor. Nominations for the 19th Annual SAG Awards will be announced on Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2012 at the Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood.

Of the top industry honors presented to performers, only the SAG Awards are selected entirely by actors’ union peers The nominees for performances in 2012, including the distinctive ensemble awards and stunt ensemble honors, will be chosen by two separate film and television nominating panels, each comprised of 2,100 members from across the United States, who were randomly selected this spring. Nomination ballots will be mailed on Wednesday, Nov. 21 and voting closes on Monday, Dec. 10.


After nominations are announced, final SAG Awards voting instructions will be mailed on Monday, Dec. 31, 2012 to all active members of SAG-AFTRA. Online voting is encouraged. Final voting paper ballots are available only upon request between Monday, Oct. 1, 2012 and Monday, Jan. 14, 2013. Online votes must be cast or previously-requested paper ballots returned by Friday, Jan. 25 to the SAG Awards election firm, where results will be sealed until they are opened onstage at the 19h Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards on Sunday, Jan. 27, 2013. The ceremony will be simulcast live from the Los Angeles Shrine Exposition Center on TNT and TBS at 8 p.m. ET, 7 p.m. CT, 6 p.m. MT and 5 p.m. PT.

Complete rules and regulations for the 19th Annual SAG Awards are posted at www.sagawards.org/rules.

Categories for submission are as follows:

Theatrical Motion Pictures  

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role
Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role
Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role
Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role
Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Primetime Broadcast and Cable Television Programs

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Movie or Miniseries
Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Miniseries
Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama Series
Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series
Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Comedy Series
Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series
Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series
Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series

Stunt Ensemble Honors (recipients to be announced from the SAG Awards® red carpet on Sunday, Jan. 27)

Outstanding Action Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Motion Picture
Outstanding Action Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Television Series

The following are upcoming key deadlines and events leading to the 19th Annual SAG Awards.  Dates that have been changed since the last calendar was released in March are marked with an asterisk*

Monday, July 9, 2012
Submissions Open at sagawards.org/submissions

Wednesday, September 10, 2012
Deadline for Nominating Committee Members to Make Address Changes

Monday, October 1, 2012
Media Nomination Announcement and Ceremony Credential Applications Open at sagawards.org
Publicists Nomination Announcement Credential Applications Open at sagawards.org

Monday, October 1, 2012
Period to Request Paper Final Ballots in Lieu of Online Voting Begins

Thursday, October 25, 2012
Submissions Close at 5 p.m. PT at sagawards.org/submissions

Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Media Nomination Announcement and Ceremony Credential Applications Close

Friday, November 8, 2012
Publicists Nomination Announcement Credential Applications Close

Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Nominations Ballots Mailed

*Friday, November 30, 2012
Deadline for Paying November 2011 Dues and/or Changing Address with SAG-AFTRA to be Eligible for Final Balloting

Monday December 10, 2012
Nomination Ballots Due at the Elections Firm by 12 Noon p.m. PT
*Records Pulled for Final Balloting

Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Nominations Announced at the Pacific Design Center

Friday, December 14, 2012
Publicists Ceremony Credential Applications Open at sagawards.org

Monday, December 31, 2012
Final Balloting Information Mailed to Members

Friday, January 4, 2013
Publicists Ceremony Credential Applications Close

Monday, January 14, 2013
Final Day to Request Paper Final Ballots in Lieu of Online Voting

Friday, January 25, 2013
Final Votes Must be Cast Online or Ballots Received by the Elections Firm by 12 Noon PT

Sunday, January 27, 2013
19th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards® at the Los Angeles Shrine Exposition Center

The 19th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards® presented by SAG-AFTRA will be produced by Jeff Margolis Productions in association with Screen Actors Guild Awards®, LLC. For more information about the SAG Awards, SAG-AFTRA, TNT and TBS, visit sagawards.org/about, “like” SAG Awards at facebook.com/sagawardsofficialpage and follow SAG Awards at twitter.com/sagawards.

Tuesday, July 10, 2012

'THE DARK KNIGHT RISES' IN THEATERS SOON


Warner Bros. Pictures’ and Legendary Pictures’ “The Dark Knight Rises” is the epic conclusion to filmmaker Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight trilogy. 

It has been eight years since Batman vanished into the night, turning, in that instant, from hero to fugitive. Assuming the blame for the death of D.A. Harvey Dent, the Dark Knight sacrificed everything for what he and Commissioner Gordon both hoped was the greater good. For a time the lie worked, as criminal activity in Gotham City was crushed under the weight of the anti-crime Dent Act. 

But everything will change with the arrival of a cunning cat burglar with a mysterious agenda. Far more dangerous, however, is the emergence of Bane, a masked terrorist whose ruthless plans for Gotham drive Bruce out of his self-imposed exile. But even if he dons the cape and cowl again, Batman may be no match for Bane.

TICKETS ON SALE NOW FOR “RADIATE” FEATURING JOMAMA JONES, A WORKSHOP PRESENTATION AT THE KIRK DOUGLAS THEATRE

      Tickets are on sale now for “Radiate” featuring Jomama Jones at the Kirk Douglas Theatre.  The off-Broadway smash hit show is coming to Los Angeles for two nights only in a workshop presentation as part of DouglasPlus programming, on August 3 and 4, 2012, at 8 p.m.
            Conceived by Daniel Alexander Jones with Bobby Halvorson, “Radiate” is an intimate concert – part happening, part revival – in which the performance artist Daniel Alexander Jones embodies the soul singer Jomama Jones on her American comeback tour.  

Thursday, July 5, 2012

Documentary Celebrates The Life of Don Cornelius

DON CORNELIUS

The life, career and legend of Soul Train creator, Don Cornelius is celebrated in a touching, sometimes funny, sometimes poignant, documentary set to be released by Centric and The Don Cornelius Foundation.

Friends, family and industry insiders recently attended a private screening of ‘Don Cornelius: Visionary, Trailblazer and Cultural Icon’ in the Clive Davis Theater at the Grammy Museum at L.A. Live.  The one-hour special was met with applause and gratitude for the various accomplishments of Cornelius, who died Feb. 1, 2012. He apparently died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

TONY CORNELIUS

His son, Tony Cornelius, one of the co-producers, said the Don Cornelius Foundation, formed by the family of Donald C. Cornelius, is committed to establishing a program for awareness, prevention, and support for those contemplating suicide, or survivors who have lost loved ones.  The organization is also committed to establishing programs to support those in transition and in need of healing.

The Don Cornelius Foundation, Inc., a non-profit, will launch its inaugural “People All Over The World” campaign in early 2013.


Cornelius was best known as the smooth-voiced creator of the nationally syndicated dance/music franchise Soul Train, which he hosted from 1971 to 1993.  He single-handedly brought black music and culture into America's living rooms when he created the musical/dance phenomenon.

TONY CORNELIUS

The film, the first original posthumous documentary, tells the story behind the man by the man himself.  Inspired by one of Don Cornelius' last taped interviews, this documentary features the late Don Cornelius giving firsthand accounts and reflections of his early life and career during Soul Train that are accompanied by intimate photographs, exclusive footage and special stories from former Soul Train performers, dancers, and devoted fans, illustrating the impact of Soul Train across the nation.  From the innovative Soul Train Line to exclusive live performances by the Jackson Five, James Brown, Donna Summers, Stevie Wonder, and many more music legends from breaking fashion trends to cutting-edge dance moves, we will hear Don's deep, resonating voice take us once more on the hippest trip in America.

ANITA BAKER

‘Don Cornelius: Visionary, Trailblazer and Cultural Icon’ features interviews by Gladys Knight, Anita Baker, Quest Love, Kool and the Gang, Eddie Levert, New Edition, Kenny Lattimore and Missy Elliott. 

The film is executive produced by: Paxton Baker and Bart Phillips and co-executive produced by Tony Cornelius and Kenard Gibbs from Soul Train Holdings.

For more information about the Don Cornelius Foundation: www.TheDonCorneliusFoundation.com


24th Street Theatre In The National Spotlight



L.A.-based theater is honored with
Peter Zeisler Memorial Award
at 2012 TCG National Conference

 
Los Angeles, Calif. – July 5, 2012 – A national spotlight shone on Los Angeles-based 24th Street Theatre at the 2012 TCG (Theatre Communications Group) National Conference in Boston when the 15-year-old theater was honored with the Peter Zeisler Memorial Award for Outstanding Achievement In The American Theatre.”

The Peter Zeisler Memorial Award recognizes an individual or organization whose work reflects and promotes ingenuity and artistic integrity, exemplifies pioneering practices in theater, is dedicated to the freedom of expression, and is unafraid of taking risks for the advancement of the art form. Previous recipients include The Foundry Theatre, Elevator Repair Service and actor, rapper, playwright and educator Will Power.

“We are delighted to award 24th Street Theatre with the 2012 Peter Zeisler Memorial Award,” said Teresa Eyring, executive director of TCG. “It has always been our desire to use this award to spotlight innovative and inventive work around the country. 24th Street theatre exemplifies the risk-taking spirit of the late TCG executive director and it is an honor to recognize this cutting-edge organization.”

24th Street Theatre, under the leadership of artistic director Debbie Devine and executive director Jay McAdams, is known for being a leader in arts education and community outreach as well as for presenting quality professional theater for young and old alike. Using art as a tool to positively impact the world around them, 24th Street’s programming includes free after school enrichment programs, Teatro Nuevo Latino Initiative projects, a music series, outreach programs for at-risk teens, free community events, professional development programs for teachers, arts-ed school workshops, gallery exhibits and international touring in addition to critically acclaimed season productions geared for both adult and family audiences.

McAdams traveled to Boston to accept the award, which was presented by Diane Rodriguez of Center Theatre Group on June 23 and was accompanied by a check for $1,000.

“I’m proud to have a nationally recognized theater in my district,” said Los Angeles City Councilwoman Jan Perry. “I’ve always known that arts organizations make a huge difference, and 24th Street Theatre has been one of our City's greatest treasures for fifteen years.”

Theatre Communications Group (TCG), the national organization for the American theater, exists to strengthen, nurture and promote the professional not-for-profit American theater, with nearly 700 member theaters and affiliate organizations and more than 12,000 individuals nationwide.
###

FORD AMPHITHEATRE SET TO UNDERGO IMPROVEMENTS STARTING OCT. 2012, Construction Will Pre-Empt [Inside] The Ford 2012-13 Season

FORD AMPHITHEATRE

Los Angeles, Calif. – July 5, 2012 — Construction to improve the stage and floor of the historic outdoor Ford Amphitheatre is scheduled to begin in October 2012 immediately following the close of the Amphitheatre’s current summer season.

Key improvements include:

    * Resurfacing and sealing of the Amphitheatre floor to prevent water leakage to areas beneath the theater including the 87-seat [Inside] the Ford theater, dressing rooms and green room.
    * Installing new Amphitheatre seats.
    * Reconfiguring the stage to allow for better drainage, create an even surface and reduce the angle of the stage’s rake.
    * Upgrading the Amphitheatre’s lighting and sound systems.

“We have wanted to make these improvements for some time,” said Adam Davis, Managing Director of the Ford Theatres. “We are currently going through a planning process that’s enabled us to prioritize needs and these were at the top of the list. These improvements will make producing at the Ford better and maintaining the facility easier while retaining the Amphitheatre’s historic character.”

The construction is scheduled to be completed in time for the 2013 Ford Amphitheatre Summer Season opening next May, but will pre-empt the 2012-13 season in the [Inside] the Ford theater. For the past four seasons the [Inside] theater has been home to the Ford’s Winter Partnership Program that helps L.A. County-based theater companies present new plays in the space.

“The construction will make it impossible to produce in the indoor theater this coming season,” said Laura Zucker, Executive Director of the Los Angeles County Arts Commission, “but the Arts Commission will continue to support theater companies in the region through our myriad other programs, including grants and technical assistance.”

The project is expected to cost $7.5 million and is funded with capital projects funds made available by Board of Supervisors Chairman and Third District Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky.

A detailed master plan for the future development of the Ford Theatres is expected to go before the L.A. County Board of Supervisors in fall 2012. In 2010 Levin & Associates Architects were selected to develop that plan. The firm has a wealth of experience in revitalizing and enhancing historic sites including the Griffith Observatory and Los Angeles City Hall Restoration.

The Ford Theatres, located in a Los Angeles County Regional Park on Cahuenga Blvd. East in the Hollywood Hills, are operated by the Los Angeles County Arts Commission. The 1200-seat Ford Amphitheatre was built by Christine Wetherill Stevenson in 1920 as the site of her Pilgrimage Play. Since 1993, the amphitheater has been home to the Ford Amphitheatre Summer Season, a multi-disciplinary performing arts series produced by the Arts Commission in cooperation with Los Angeles County-based arts organizations. The current construction project is a continuation of a series of upgrades the County has made to the historic theater over the past two decades. These have included replacement of aging power and water lines, the expanded entryway with more picnic tables and the addition of an elevator to make the facility ADA accessible.

The 2012 Ford Amphitheatre Summer Season opened June 1 and continues through October 7. Complete information is available at www.fordtheatres.org.

The Los Angeles County Arts Commission, Laura Zucker, Executive Director, provides leadership in cultural services of all disciplines for the largest county in the United States, encompassing 88 municipalities. In addition to programming the John Anson Ford Theatres, the Arts Commission provides leadership and staffing to support the County-wide collaboration for arts education, Arts for All; administers a grants program that funds almost 400 nonprofit arts organizations annually; oversees the County’s Civic Art Program for capital projects; funds the largest arts internship program in the country in conjunction with the Getty Foundation; and supports the Los Angeles County Cultural Calendar on ExperienceLA.com and SpacefinderLA.org, Creative Spaces for Creative People. The Arts Commission also produces free community programs, including the L.A. County Holiday Celebration broadcast nationally, and a year-round music program that funds more than 140 free concerts and participatory arts events each year in public sites. The 2012-13 President of the Arts Commission is Mattie McFadden-Lawson. For more information please consult the Arts Commission online press kit: http://lacountyarts.org/page/pubnewspress.

###

Tuesday, July 3, 2012

WENDY WILLIAMS' SHOW LISTINGS




SHOW LISTINGS FOR THE WEEK OF 7/9/12

SHAMELESS STUNTS WEEK
Monday, July 9, 2012 WW #4043R (RERUN)
Braxton Family Values.

Toni Braxton, Tamar, Trina, Towanda, Traci and Evelyn stop by to dish on all the drama going down on the new season of “Braxton Family Values.”

Then, the voice behind Elmo, Kevin Clash, tells us about his revealing new documentary “Being Elmo: Puppeteer’s Journey.”

Plus, you’ll be shocked to see “Wendy’s Shameless Surprise Stunt.”

It’s gonna be juicy.

Tuesday, July 10, 2012 WW #4046R (RERUN)
Snooki!

From “Jersey Shore” the lovable Snooki stops by to tell us about her new book, “Confessions of a Guidette” and reveals what she really thinks about Mike “The Situation”

Then, don’t miss “Wendy’s Shameless Surprise Stunt.”

It’s gonna be good.

Wednesday, July 11, 2012 WW #4049R (RERUN)
Being Wendy.

Actress, activist and now children’s book author, “The Nanny” Fran Drescher, tells us about her new book, “Being Wendy.”

Then, don’t miss Wendy’s Shameless Surprise Stunt.

Plus, Ereka Vetrini from “Showbiz Tonight” gives us the inside scoop on the latest Hot Topics.

It’s gonna be good.

Thursday, July 12, 2012 WW #4052R (RERUN)
Call Me Fitz.

Jason Priestley from “90210” fame is all grown up and tells us about his new DirecTV show, “Call Me Fitz.”

Then, the latest contestant eliminated from “The Biggest Loser” shares their inspiring story.

Plus, don’t miss “Wendy’s Shameless Surprise Stunt.”

And Stacy Francis from “The X Factor” stops by to talk about her shocking elimination.

Be there.

Friday, July 13, 2012 WW #4053R (RERUN)
Being Chaz.

From “Dancing with the Stars,” Chaz Bono shares his inspiring story and tells us about his new special, “Being Chaz,” on OWN.

Then, “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” star Cynthia Bailey dishes on all the drama going down in the ATL.

Plus, don’t miss “Wendy’s Shameless Surprise Stunt.”