"Elvis has left the building."
from The New Zealand Herald:
Al Dvorin, famous for using the phrase "Elvis has left the building" at the end of the singer's shows, has died.
Dvorin died in a car accident as he and well-known Elvis photographer Ed Bonja drove from Palm Springs to Las Vegas.
He was thrown from the car and died at the scene, Elvis.com said.
Though details of the accident were not clear, it seemed Dvorin was adjusting his seat belt or had dropped something, and that Bonja reached over to assist and lost control of the car, the website added.
Earlier in the day, Mr Dvorin - aged 81 - had appeared at the Trump 29 Casino in Coachella, California, with Elvis impersonator Paul Casey, The Melbourne Herald Sun reported.
His catch-phrase was used by other announcers at Elvis shows, but Dvorin made it his own.
Tuesday, August 24, 2004
Sunday, August 22, 2004
Film Composers
We often hear about our favorite movie stars passing away, but only occasionally do we hear about the loss of film composers. The last month has seen the passing of three of the greatest film composers of all time.
Elmer Bernstein died last Wednesday the 18th at age 82. Bernstein composed the scores for over 250 films and television shows. He had so many classic themes that everyone recognizes immediately, The Magnificent Seven being perhaps the most famous.
Bernstein first gained recognition for incorporating jazz elements into his scores for such films as The Man With The Golden Arm and The Sweet Smell Of Success, but he was also known for creating melodic themes for sweeping epics such as The Ten Commandments and The Great Escape. He could also create tender, intimate scores for films such as To Kill A Mocking Bird, The Birdman Of Alcatraz and Hud.
Bernstein also created memorable TV themes such as for the National Geographic Specials and Gunsmoke. After the success of The Magnificent Seven, he was enlisted to compose for many westerns, often starring John Wayne, including The Sons Of Katie Elder, True Grit, and The Shootist.
Late in his career, Bernstein composed themes for a number of now-classic comedies, including Meatballs, The Blues Brothers, Caddyshack, Trading Places, and Ghostbusters. He also composed the mysterious incidental music for Michael Jackson’s Thriller video.
Elmer Bernstein was nominated for Oscar awards 14 times, but won only once, ironically for Thoroughly Modern Millie, which was mostly an adaptation of music from other composers.
(National Public Radio had a nice retrospective.)
David Raksin is not a name most people recognize, but you have surely heard his music before. Raksin began his career in the mid-1930s, the golden age of film music, and he composed for such memorable films as The Bad And The Beautiful, Suddenly, and Pat and Mike. His most famous theme, however, will always be 1944’s Laura.
David Raksin died August 9 of heart failure. He was 92.
Jerry Goldsmith, who passed away July 22 at age 75, was one of my favorite film composers. The prolific Goldsmith composed over 300 scores for film and television and it is hard to underestimate his influence on the industry. There are no words fit to describe the profound impact of Mr. Goldsmith’s work, so I’ll simply offer a summary list highlighting his credits and let you “ooh” and “ah” for yourself.
Television: The Twilight Zone, The Fugitive, Perry Mason, Raw Hide, Dr. Kildare, The Man From U.N.C.L.E., Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea, The Waltons, Barnaby Jones, Police Story, Steven Spielberg’s Amazing Stories, Star Trek: The Next Generation, Star Trek: Voyager, and many more.
Movies: Lonely Are The Brave, Lilies Of The Field, The List Of Adrian Messenger, Seven Days In May, Von Ryan’s Express, A Patch Of Blue, In Harm’s Way, Agony And The Ecstasy, The Sand Pebbles, Seconds, Our Man Flint, Bandolero!, Patton, Tora! Tora! Tora!, Papillon, Chinatown, The Wind And The Lion, Logan’s Run, The Omen, Islands In The Stream, Coma, Capricorn One, The Boys From Brazil, Magic, Alien, Outland, Poltergeist, Star Trek: The Motion Picture, Under Fire, The Secret Of Nimh, First Blood (Rambo), Gremlins, Legend, Hoosiers, Innerspace, Rent-A-Cop, Wall Street, Total Recall, Medicine Man, Basic Instinct, Six Degrees Of Separation, Rudy, L.A. Confidential, Air Force One, Mulan, The Mummy, and on and on and on…
He also wrote the “Fanfare for Oscar” for The Academy Of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences (we hear it every Oscars broadcast) and the fanfare Universal Pictures, which we hear when we see the spinning globe before their movies.
My favorite score of Mr. Goldsmith’s, besides Alien and Poltergeist, has to be his most revered classic, Planet Of The Apes. Ask any young musician writing for films today and they will surely tell you that Planet Of The Apes was one of the films that inspired them to become a composer. Goldsmith broke all the rules by creating a 12-tone soundscape with non-traditional percussion (beating on pots and pans!) to evoke an odd, primitive view of an alien world. For freaky, spine-chilling effect, it simply hasn’t been topped.
Jerry Goldsmith was nominated for Oscars 17 times, and won only once, for The Omen.
(NPR also had an appreciation for Jerry Goldsmith, and you can hear the Main Title for Planet Of The Apes here.)
We often hear about our favorite movie stars passing away, but only occasionally do we hear about the loss of film composers. The last month has seen the passing of three of the greatest film composers of all time.
Elmer Bernstein died last Wednesday the 18th at age 82. Bernstein composed the scores for over 250 films and television shows. He had so many classic themes that everyone recognizes immediately, The Magnificent Seven being perhaps the most famous.
Bernstein first gained recognition for incorporating jazz elements into his scores for such films as The Man With The Golden Arm and The Sweet Smell Of Success, but he was also known for creating melodic themes for sweeping epics such as The Ten Commandments and The Great Escape. He could also create tender, intimate scores for films such as To Kill A Mocking Bird, The Birdman Of Alcatraz and Hud.
Bernstein also created memorable TV themes such as for the National Geographic Specials and Gunsmoke. After the success of The Magnificent Seven, he was enlisted to compose for many westerns, often starring John Wayne, including The Sons Of Katie Elder, True Grit, and The Shootist.
Late in his career, Bernstein composed themes for a number of now-classic comedies, including Meatballs, The Blues Brothers, Caddyshack, Trading Places, and Ghostbusters. He also composed the mysterious incidental music for Michael Jackson’s Thriller video.
Elmer Bernstein was nominated for Oscar awards 14 times, but won only once, ironically for Thoroughly Modern Millie, which was mostly an adaptation of music from other composers.
(National Public Radio had a nice retrospective.)
David Raksin is not a name most people recognize, but you have surely heard his music before. Raksin began his career in the mid-1930s, the golden age of film music, and he composed for such memorable films as The Bad And The Beautiful, Suddenly, and Pat and Mike. His most famous theme, however, will always be 1944’s Laura.
David Raksin died August 9 of heart failure. He was 92.
Jerry Goldsmith, who passed away July 22 at age 75, was one of my favorite film composers. The prolific Goldsmith composed over 300 scores for film and television and it is hard to underestimate his influence on the industry. There are no words fit to describe the profound impact of Mr. Goldsmith’s work, so I’ll simply offer a summary list highlighting his credits and let you “ooh” and “ah” for yourself.
Television: The Twilight Zone, The Fugitive, Perry Mason, Raw Hide, Dr. Kildare, The Man From U.N.C.L.E., Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea, The Waltons, Barnaby Jones, Police Story, Steven Spielberg’s Amazing Stories, Star Trek: The Next Generation, Star Trek: Voyager, and many more.
Movies: Lonely Are The Brave, Lilies Of The Field, The List Of Adrian Messenger, Seven Days In May, Von Ryan’s Express, A Patch Of Blue, In Harm’s Way, Agony And The Ecstasy, The Sand Pebbles, Seconds, Our Man Flint, Bandolero!, Patton, Tora! Tora! Tora!, Papillon, Chinatown, The Wind And The Lion, Logan’s Run, The Omen, Islands In The Stream, Coma, Capricorn One, The Boys From Brazil, Magic, Alien, Outland, Poltergeist, Star Trek: The Motion Picture, Under Fire, The Secret Of Nimh, First Blood (Rambo), Gremlins, Legend, Hoosiers, Innerspace, Rent-A-Cop, Wall Street, Total Recall, Medicine Man, Basic Instinct, Six Degrees Of Separation, Rudy, L.A. Confidential, Air Force One, Mulan, The Mummy, and on and on and on…
He also wrote the “Fanfare for Oscar” for The Academy Of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences (we hear it every Oscars broadcast) and the fanfare Universal Pictures, which we hear when we see the spinning globe before their movies.
My favorite score of Mr. Goldsmith’s, besides Alien and Poltergeist, has to be his most revered classic, Planet Of The Apes. Ask any young musician writing for films today and they will surely tell you that Planet Of The Apes was one of the films that inspired them to become a composer. Goldsmith broke all the rules by creating a 12-tone soundscape with non-traditional percussion (beating on pots and pans!) to evoke an odd, primitive view of an alien world. For freaky, spine-chilling effect, it simply hasn’t been topped.
Jerry Goldsmith was nominated for Oscars 17 times, and won only once, for The Omen.
(NPR also had an appreciation for Jerry Goldsmith, and you can hear the Main Title for Planet Of The Apes here.)
Saturday, August 21, 2004
Sleepy
Yours truly was in bed by 11:30 last night, Friday night!! I got back from the movies with Heidster (In A Lonely Place, starring Humphrey Bogart) and I had already started dozing during the movie, not an unusual practice of mine.
Got home and didn't even turn on the lights. Just went to the bathroom, brushed my teeth and went to bed. After a full eight hours of sleep, I woke up to start teaching my English lessons online.
Then this afternoon I felt sleepy and took a two-hour nap. I was so tired I slept right through my last lesson. Oops!
It's ironic that I often go to bed early on the weekends considering I almost never make it to bed before midnight during the work week. Between cooking dinner, doing laundry, and finishing my homework (teachers always have more homework than students), it's not unusual for me to turn out the lights after one o'clock or later. The six o'clock alarm follows shortly and I'm up-and-at-'em for another round.
Yours truly was in bed by 11:30 last night, Friday night!! I got back from the movies with Heidster (In A Lonely Place, starring Humphrey Bogart) and I had already started dozing during the movie, not an unusual practice of mine.
Got home and didn't even turn on the lights. Just went to the bathroom, brushed my teeth and went to bed. After a full eight hours of sleep, I woke up to start teaching my English lessons online.
Then this afternoon I felt sleepy and took a two-hour nap. I was so tired I slept right through my last lesson. Oops!
It's ironic that I often go to bed early on the weekends considering I almost never make it to bed before midnight during the work week. Between cooking dinner, doing laundry, and finishing my homework (teachers always have more homework than students), it's not unusual for me to turn out the lights after one o'clock or later. The six o'clock alarm follows shortly and I'm up-and-at-'em for another round.
Tuesday, August 17, 2004
Can you trust the media?
One of my favorite things to do if I have the time is to watch the national evening news. I especially love flipping between channels to see each network's interpretation of current events.
Tonight, there was a major story about Sport Utility Vehicle safety and a new report issued by the government. I am not kidding when I tell you that ABC and CBS had exactly opposite viewpoints on the same story.
CBS News reported that new crash statistics indicate that SUV deaths were slightly higher than those of ordinary cars, but that since there are almost five times more cars on the road than SUVs, many more people are killed in cars than in SUVs. Also, significantly, CBS suggested that older SUVs had a much higher rate of fatalities than newer SUVs, which have advanced safety technology.
Two minutes later, I saw the same story covered on ABC. ABC completely contradicted CBS's version of the story. ABC said that SUVs were far more dangerous than cars because they have a higher rollover rate, and that SUV drivers who claim they feel safer in the bigger vehicles have a false sense of security. ABC also explicitly said there was no statistical difference in crash ratings between older and newer SUVs!!
Who do you believe?
One of my favorite things to do if I have the time is to watch the national evening news. I especially love flipping between channels to see each network's interpretation of current events.
Tonight, there was a major story about Sport Utility Vehicle safety and a new report issued by the government. I am not kidding when I tell you that ABC and CBS had exactly opposite viewpoints on the same story.
CBS News reported that new crash statistics indicate that SUV deaths were slightly higher than those of ordinary cars, but that since there are almost five times more cars on the road than SUVs, many more people are killed in cars than in SUVs. Also, significantly, CBS suggested that older SUVs had a much higher rate of fatalities than newer SUVs, which have advanced safety technology.
Two minutes later, I saw the same story covered on ABC. ABC completely contradicted CBS's version of the story. ABC said that SUVs were far more dangerous than cars because they have a higher rollover rate, and that SUV drivers who claim they feel safer in the bigger vehicles have a false sense of security. ABC also explicitly said there was no statistical difference in crash ratings between older and newer SUVs!!
Who do you believe?
Sunday, August 15, 2004
L.A.P.D.
Had a scary experience as I was heading out yesterday. It was about mid-day so I figured I'd take Melrose east to Highland for a change. I don't usually take Melrose since the traffic can be bad, but since it was early in the day on a Friday I figured I'd give it a shot. Traffic wasn't so bad, but I only got a few blocks before I could see the flashing lights of a black and white approaching from the opposite direction.
Cars were starting to pull to the right side of the road and I followed suit. But as the cop car got closer it did a surprising thing. Instead of flying past me and the other stopped cars, it suddenly pulled right in front of us and blocked traffic. Two officers quickly jumped out of the car, guns drawn, and moved to the sidewalk in front of a closed store front. I could see that the security gate in front of the store was pulled open slightly and the cops leaned against the building's wall peering around into the store. One officer had a shot gun and the other was holding a .45.
Well, you can imagine the sudden terror this created for those of us sitting in our cars as well as some unlucky pedestrians who happened to be passing by just as the cops arrived. Everyone started to scatter and luckily with traffic stopped, those of us parked in front of the store could quickly make a U-turn in the middle of the block before the opposing traffic began to proceed. As I turned off on a side street to continue my journey north, I heard and then saw a police helicopter flying overhead.
I don't know if anything came of that episode. I'm assuming it was the store alarm which alerted the police. One thing I do know: if bullets had started flying, yours truly and about a dozen other people would have been in the direct line of fire.
I love L.A.
Had a scary experience as I was heading out yesterday. It was about mid-day so I figured I'd take Melrose east to Highland for a change. I don't usually take Melrose since the traffic can be bad, but since it was early in the day on a Friday I figured I'd give it a shot. Traffic wasn't so bad, but I only got a few blocks before I could see the flashing lights of a black and white approaching from the opposite direction.
Cars were starting to pull to the right side of the road and I followed suit. But as the cop car got closer it did a surprising thing. Instead of flying past me and the other stopped cars, it suddenly pulled right in front of us and blocked traffic. Two officers quickly jumped out of the car, guns drawn, and moved to the sidewalk in front of a closed store front. I could see that the security gate in front of the store was pulled open slightly and the cops leaned against the building's wall peering around into the store. One officer had a shot gun and the other was holding a .45.
Well, you can imagine the sudden terror this created for those of us sitting in our cars as well as some unlucky pedestrians who happened to be passing by just as the cops arrived. Everyone started to scatter and luckily with traffic stopped, those of us parked in front of the store could quickly make a U-turn in the middle of the block before the opposing traffic began to proceed. As I turned off on a side street to continue my journey north, I heard and then saw a police helicopter flying overhead.
I don't know if anything came of that episode. I'm assuming it was the store alarm which alerted the police. One thing I do know: if bullets had started flying, yours truly and about a dozen other people would have been in the direct line of fire.
I love L.A.
Wednesday, August 11, 2004
Class Blog
This was a good idea. I think the students liked it. I made a blog for my class and made students all members. They first posted on their own about any topic they chose; then I asked them to read some other posts and make comments.
Then we looked at some other blogs on the net and saw the variety of blogs out there.
Finally, I put them in groups and had them find a cool item for sale online and post a link on the blog.
Lots of language interaction and fun as well.
This was a good idea. I think the students liked it. I made a blog for my class and made students all members. They first posted on their own about any topic they chose; then I asked them to read some other posts and make comments.
Then we looked at some other blogs on the net and saw the variety of blogs out there.
Finally, I put them in groups and had them find a cool item for sale online and post a link on the blog.
Lots of language interaction and fun as well.
Wednesday, August 04, 2004
"Lost Horizon" ~ The Musical!
That's right; there's a musical version of the James Hilton novel Lost Horizon. Most people remember Frank Capra's classic version from 1937. But did you ever see the 1973 musical version featuring music and lyrics by none other than Burt Bacharach and Hal David?! It sounds too ridiculous to be true, doesn't it?
This is an example of how lots of money, a great cast of actors, and an excellent production team, can occasionally misfire. The film isn't terrible; in fact, it's quite entertaining. But it shifts between serious drama and campy musical numbers, and the inconsistency is unsettling.
The story begins in an eastern Asian country in the middle of a civil war. Peter Finch stars as a famous U.N. diplomat trying to mediate between warring factions. He and his journalist brother, played by Michael York, are kidnapped on a hijacked airplane along with an eclectic group of others, including George Kennedy, Sally Kellerman, and song-and-dance man Bobby Van. The plane crash-lands high in the snowy Himalayas and the group is rescued by some nomadic lamas who take the strangers to the mystical land of Shangri-La.
That describes the first 45 minutes of the film and it is quite gripping drama. Then we get to Shangri-La and the silliness begins, starting with Sir John Gielgud dressed in Asian makeup and attire as the town elder "Chang." Oh boy. Gielgud is accompanied by residents Liv Ullman, Olivia Hussey, and (believe it or not) Charles Boyer as the elderly High Lama.
Our visitors are enchanted by the peaceful utopian society of Shangri-La, but they are also torn between their desires to return to the 'real' world. Add a few bright costumes by Jean Louis, extremely fey choreography by Hermes Pan, and juvenile bubble gum pop songs by Bacharach and David and you've got a doomed classic on your hands!
There was certainly no lack of talent involved. The beautiful photography was handled by legend Robert Surtees and the entire show was produced by Ross Hunter. This was a scenario in which an older generation of Hollywood royalty was passing the torch to the younger generation. Somebody dropped the torch.
BUT, the charming Michael York did make a personal appearance last night at the Egyptian Theatre and he kindly sat for a Q & A session.
This film has not been released on video (yet) but if you ever get a chance to see it, don't miss it! You will enjoy the drama, you will laugh at the film and with the film, and you will cringe to hear Peter Finch singing a love duet with Liv Ullman!
In the meantime, some kind soul has posted screen shots of the whole film here so you can get a feeling for the odd look of the film if you like.
Peter Finch and John Gielgud (in his 'tea cozy' hat)
That's right; there's a musical version of the James Hilton novel Lost Horizon. Most people remember Frank Capra's classic version from 1937. But did you ever see the 1973 musical version featuring music and lyrics by none other than Burt Bacharach and Hal David?! It sounds too ridiculous to be true, doesn't it?
This is an example of how lots of money, a great cast of actors, and an excellent production team, can occasionally misfire. The film isn't terrible; in fact, it's quite entertaining. But it shifts between serious drama and campy musical numbers, and the inconsistency is unsettling.
The story begins in an eastern Asian country in the middle of a civil war. Peter Finch stars as a famous U.N. diplomat trying to mediate between warring factions. He and his journalist brother, played by Michael York, are kidnapped on a hijacked airplane along with an eclectic group of others, including George Kennedy, Sally Kellerman, and song-and-dance man Bobby Van. The plane crash-lands high in the snowy Himalayas and the group is rescued by some nomadic lamas who take the strangers to the mystical land of Shangri-La.
That describes the first 45 minutes of the film and it is quite gripping drama. Then we get to Shangri-La and the silliness begins, starting with Sir John Gielgud dressed in Asian makeup and attire as the town elder "Chang." Oh boy. Gielgud is accompanied by residents Liv Ullman, Olivia Hussey, and (believe it or not) Charles Boyer as the elderly High Lama.
Our visitors are enchanted by the peaceful utopian society of Shangri-La, but they are also torn between their desires to return to the 'real' world. Add a few bright costumes by Jean Louis, extremely fey choreography by Hermes Pan, and juvenile bubble gum pop songs by Bacharach and David and you've got a doomed classic on your hands!
There was certainly no lack of talent involved. The beautiful photography was handled by legend Robert Surtees and the entire show was produced by Ross Hunter. This was a scenario in which an older generation of Hollywood royalty was passing the torch to the younger generation. Somebody dropped the torch.
BUT, the charming Michael York did make a personal appearance last night at the Egyptian Theatre and he kindly sat for a Q & A session.
This film has not been released on video (yet) but if you ever get a chance to see it, don't miss it! You will enjoy the drama, you will laugh at the film and with the film, and you will cringe to hear Peter Finch singing a love duet with Liv Ullman!
In the meantime, some kind soul has posted screen shots of the whole film here so you can get a feeling for the odd look of the film if you like.
Peter Finch and John Gielgud (in his 'tea cozy' hat)
Monday, August 02, 2004
"Fahrenheit 9/11"
See this movie! It's entertaining, it's informative, it's provocative, and it's funny. Michael Moore does it again after his huge success with Bowling For Columbine. I actually think Columbine had more big laughs, although there were plenty of serious moments as well. 9/11 had its humorous moments too, but they were more nervous laughter, or laughter of disbelief, like: "I can't believe these guys are such crooks and they're not even trying to hide it or deny it and nobody's doing anything about it. Ha ha."
Chances are Bush will not be re-elected (hope, hope), but if everyone could see this movie, not only would Bush lose the election, he'd probably lose his freedom, if not his very life. He should be dropped in a deep dark pit with all the rest of his fuck-buddies, and a big pile of cement poured on top of them. Public execution is too good for these villains. These are despicable, ruthless, selfish animals. They don't even deserve to be called 'human beings.'
See this movie! It's entertaining, it's informative, it's provocative, and it's funny. Michael Moore does it again after his huge success with Bowling For Columbine. I actually think Columbine had more big laughs, although there were plenty of serious moments as well. 9/11 had its humorous moments too, but they were more nervous laughter, or laughter of disbelief, like: "I can't believe these guys are such crooks and they're not even trying to hide it or deny it and nobody's doing anything about it. Ha ha."
Chances are Bush will not be re-elected (hope, hope), but if everyone could see this movie, not only would Bush lose the election, he'd probably lose his freedom, if not his very life. He should be dropped in a deep dark pit with all the rest of his fuck-buddies, and a big pile of cement poured on top of them. Public execution is too good for these villains. These are despicable, ruthless, selfish animals. They don't even deserve to be called 'human beings.'
Friday, July 30, 2004
Pilate to Co-Pilate*
Dennen and Dude
I met Barry Dennen tonight. He attended the screening of Jesus Christ Superstar at the Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood and he did a short Q&A session after the film.
The film looked amazing. It was so great to see it on the big screen. Ted and Carl were gorgeous, as was the scenery of Israel. Not since Lawrence Of Arabia have I seen such sweeping vistas of deserts and canyons. So powerful. And the music and lyrics in that show are just top notch. Nothing matches it as far as I'm concerned.
After the beautiful final shot of the shepherd tending his sheep below the silhouetted cross at sunset, the credits rolled in silence. The house lights came up and Barry Dennen approached the front of the theater to warm applause. He's smaller than I realized and now grey-headed and bald on top. I also didn't know he is American! He sang/spoke with a perfect English accent in the film. He lived in England for a long time and is still well known there, much more than here in the States.
Mr. Dennen told us the story of how he got involved in the show. He was doing Cabaret in London with Judy Dench when he met Murray Head through an agent. Murray and Barry became friends and worked on some projects together. About that time, Murray told Barry that a couple of acquaintances were working on a new rock opera called "Jesus Christ" and would he like to get involved with it? Barry went to the studio to meet Andrew and Tim and they played the half dozen songs they had finished so far. Barry loved the music and gladly joined the project. He had a close connection with the show as it progressed from the concept album to the Broadway stage and then the film. In fact, it was he who insisted director Norman Jewison test Ted and Carl for the leads. They had both assumed the roles on Broadway but Jewison hadn't seen either of them before.
"Judas, must you betray me with a kiss?" -- from the 1973 film (above) and the 1993 reunion tour (below).
Dennen has performed the role of Pilate several times on stage since then, and he's kept a busy career of film and TV work over the years. Most recently he joined the current touring production of Jesus Christ Superstar in the role of Herod, and I can imagine what a delightful interpretation he must give.
A short while ago he wrote a book about his early romance with Barbra Streisand. They met in New York in 1960 when they were both struggling young actors working on a terrible play. Barbra wanted to be a serious actress but when Barry heard her sing he told her she had to be a singer. Barbra wasn't really interested but Barry convinced her to give it a try and he directed her first nightclub appearances. They also became lovers during this period and they lived together for about a year in New York. Barbra became a huge superstar shortly thereafter.
A jolly fellow, Barry Dennen today.
After Mr. Dennen made his comments I stepped up to greet him and introduce myself. I told him I had performed the role of Pilate in the last reunion tour with Ted and Carl. "Did you love it?" he asked cheerfully. By then a small crowd had gathered around us and a woman pointed to me and said, "You were wonderful, Scott! I saw the show several times." That was nice to be recognized.
Barry said that he had loved working with Carl on the most recent JCS tour, but that it was terribly sad to see Carl get sick and have to leave the show. "It was so difficult for everyone in the cast," he said. "We watched him die right in front of us."
Carl Anderson, 27 February 1945 -- 23 February 2004
Barry Dennen has a wonderful website with a lot of great stories and information. Some of the pictures in this blog came from his site.
Ted Neeley and Barry Dennen as 'Pilate and Christ' in the 1973 film. Below, Ted Neeley and yours truly on stage 25 years later.
*Special thanks to Heidster for the title. If only we'd taken a picture!
Dennen and Dude
I met Barry Dennen tonight. He attended the screening of Jesus Christ Superstar at the Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood and he did a short Q&A session after the film.
The film looked amazing. It was so great to see it on the big screen. Ted and Carl were gorgeous, as was the scenery of Israel. Not since Lawrence Of Arabia have I seen such sweeping vistas of deserts and canyons. So powerful. And the music and lyrics in that show are just top notch. Nothing matches it as far as I'm concerned.
After the beautiful final shot of the shepherd tending his sheep below the silhouetted cross at sunset, the credits rolled in silence. The house lights came up and Barry Dennen approached the front of the theater to warm applause. He's smaller than I realized and now grey-headed and bald on top. I also didn't know he is American! He sang/spoke with a perfect English accent in the film. He lived in England for a long time and is still well known there, much more than here in the States.
Mr. Dennen told us the story of how he got involved in the show. He was doing Cabaret in London with Judy Dench when he met Murray Head through an agent. Murray and Barry became friends and worked on some projects together. About that time, Murray told Barry that a couple of acquaintances were working on a new rock opera called "Jesus Christ" and would he like to get involved with it? Barry went to the studio to meet Andrew and Tim and they played the half dozen songs they had finished so far. Barry loved the music and gladly joined the project. He had a close connection with the show as it progressed from the concept album to the Broadway stage and then the film. In fact, it was he who insisted director Norman Jewison test Ted and Carl for the leads. They had both assumed the roles on Broadway but Jewison hadn't seen either of them before.
"Judas, must you betray me with a kiss?" -- from the 1973 film (above) and the 1993 reunion tour (below).
Dennen has performed the role of Pilate several times on stage since then, and he's kept a busy career of film and TV work over the years. Most recently he joined the current touring production of Jesus Christ Superstar in the role of Herod, and I can imagine what a delightful interpretation he must give.
A short while ago he wrote a book about his early romance with Barbra Streisand. They met in New York in 1960 when they were both struggling young actors working on a terrible play. Barbra wanted to be a serious actress but when Barry heard her sing he told her she had to be a singer. Barbra wasn't really interested but Barry convinced her to give it a try and he directed her first nightclub appearances. They also became lovers during this period and they lived together for about a year in New York. Barbra became a huge superstar shortly thereafter.
A jolly fellow, Barry Dennen today.
After Mr. Dennen made his comments I stepped up to greet him and introduce myself. I told him I had performed the role of Pilate in the last reunion tour with Ted and Carl. "Did you love it?" he asked cheerfully. By then a small crowd had gathered around us and a woman pointed to me and said, "You were wonderful, Scott! I saw the show several times." That was nice to be recognized.
Barry said that he had loved working with Carl on the most recent JCS tour, but that it was terribly sad to see Carl get sick and have to leave the show. "It was so difficult for everyone in the cast," he said. "We watched him die right in front of us."
Carl Anderson, 27 February 1945 -- 23 February 2004
Barry Dennen has a wonderful website with a lot of great stories and information. Some of the pictures in this blog came from his site.
Ted Neeley and Barry Dennen as 'Pilate and Christ' in the 1973 film. Below, Ted Neeley and yours truly on stage 25 years later.
*Special thanks to Heidster for the title. If only we'd taken a picture!
Wednesday, July 28, 2004
Bowie is back after heart surgery.
It's certainly good news for all Bowie fans that the man was spotted shopping in New York's Chinatown today. Bowie stopped to greet fans and well-wishers and even chatted with a few neighborhood police officers. He also took a moment to observe some Chinese men playing mah jong in the park.
Going semi-incognito for his first public appearance after emergency heart surgery last month, Bowie was dressed casually in jeans, t-shirt, and cowboy hat. He's also sporting a new moustache and mutton chops! Kind of a Neil Young look going....
Click on Bowie's hat if you'd like to see a few more pics!
Friday, July 23, 2004
Jeopardrink!: The KenJen Edition
Just read a very funny blog by surfergirl, who writes for Slate magazine online. Seems there's been a competition to create a Jeopardy! drinking game and the winner has been chosen. It's a takeoff of the "Hi Bob!" game based around the Bob Newhart shows, though Jeopardrink! has a little more structure and player-interaction considering it's based on a well-established TV game show.
And to add even more intrigue to the high-stakes brinksmanship thrilling viewers so far: "There are only four games remaining until the season ender this Friday, when we find out whether KenJen will make the jump to come back as next season's returning champion."
The suspense is killing me....
Just read a very funny blog by surfergirl, who writes for Slate magazine online. Seems there's been a competition to create a Jeopardy! drinking game and the winner has been chosen. It's a takeoff of the "Hi Bob!" game based around the Bob Newhart shows, though Jeopardrink! has a little more structure and player-interaction considering it's based on a well-established TV game show.
And to add even more intrigue to the high-stakes brinksmanship thrilling viewers so far: "There are only four games remaining until the season ender this Friday, when we find out whether KenJen will make the jump to come back as next season's returning champion."
The suspense is killing me....
Wednesday, July 21, 2004
"Stop the Insanity!"
I've been irritated for months about the whole stupid 'low-carb' diet phenomenon, which is just a bunch of crap. It's just another marketing trend that has taken off incredibly, and to absurd proportions. I've been joking for weeks that early next year doctors will reverse themselves (as they always do) and discover the nutritional value of a high-carbohydrate diet. Then all the restaurants and food companies will advertise the 'high-carb' diet and all will be well with the world. Whatever.
My friend Stennie turned me on to an hilarious rant on a blog called Tomato Nation. It's a bit long, but worth the effort.
We Americans must be the laughing stock of the world; and if we're not, we should be!
I've been irritated for months about the whole stupid 'low-carb' diet phenomenon, which is just a bunch of crap. It's just another marketing trend that has taken off incredibly, and to absurd proportions. I've been joking for weeks that early next year doctors will reverse themselves (as they always do) and discover the nutritional value of a high-carbohydrate diet. Then all the restaurants and food companies will advertise the 'high-carb' diet and all will be well with the world. Whatever.
My friend Stennie turned me on to an hilarious rant on a blog called Tomato Nation. It's a bit long, but worth the effort.
We Americans must be the laughing stock of the world; and if we're not, we should be!
Wanderlust
All my life I've had an unquenchable desire for knowledge and travel. I'm not sure why. Maybe I inherited it from my maternal grandfather who moved his family dozens of times around northern Texas when my Mom was a child. It was this burning desire that led to my sojourns to Japan in the mid-1990s, and my two-year adventures on tour with Jesus Christ Superstar.
Since coming to LA in 1997, I haven't had quite the same lust for travel as in my youth. Not sure why; perhaps life in southern California is unsettling enough on its own. Now, however, I feel the pangs of discovery beating in my heart again. It's only a dream at this point, but god I'd love to be able to explore more of planet Earth while I'm still here.
As a teacher of English to international students, I've met students from all over the world, including thousands of Taiwan Chinese. But I've never had more than a passing curiosity in China and Taiwan. My interests always belonged to Japan. That has now changed.
I saw an amazing episode of Globetrekker tonight about Hong Kong and Taiwan. I sat there awe-struck for the full hour. I had no idea there was so much beauty and diversity in that part of the world. When I think of China, I think of Communism, oppression, poverty, and most of all, crowds. Those things are probably true, but I didn't realize how much great beauty there is, both natural and man-made. China has evolved tremendously in the past decade or so into a burgeoning global power. There is a tangible sense of optimism and joy from the modern Chinese people that is quite infectious (much like America must have been about a hundred years ago). I see it in my students, whose English improves with each new group that arrives, and I saw it on this television program in the attitudes of the Chinese people, their unprecedented emphasis on development and construction, and their connection and respect for the historical past.
As the Chinese economy continues to modernize and expand, so does their culture and their influence in the world. A wise person once said, "What comes around, goes around." China once had the greatest empire in the world. I have no doubt that in the 21st century they are well on their way to reclaiming that title.
All my life I've had an unquenchable desire for knowledge and travel. I'm not sure why. Maybe I inherited it from my maternal grandfather who moved his family dozens of times around northern Texas when my Mom was a child. It was this burning desire that led to my sojourns to Japan in the mid-1990s, and my two-year adventures on tour with Jesus Christ Superstar.
Since coming to LA in 1997, I haven't had quite the same lust for travel as in my youth. Not sure why; perhaps life in southern California is unsettling enough on its own. Now, however, I feel the pangs of discovery beating in my heart again. It's only a dream at this point, but god I'd love to be able to explore more of planet Earth while I'm still here.
As a teacher of English to international students, I've met students from all over the world, including thousands of Taiwan Chinese. But I've never had more than a passing curiosity in China and Taiwan. My interests always belonged to Japan. That has now changed.
I saw an amazing episode of Globetrekker tonight about Hong Kong and Taiwan. I sat there awe-struck for the full hour. I had no idea there was so much beauty and diversity in that part of the world. When I think of China, I think of Communism, oppression, poverty, and most of all, crowds. Those things are probably true, but I didn't realize how much great beauty there is, both natural and man-made. China has evolved tremendously in the past decade or so into a burgeoning global power. There is a tangible sense of optimism and joy from the modern Chinese people that is quite infectious (much like America must have been about a hundred years ago). I see it in my students, whose English improves with each new group that arrives, and I saw it on this television program in the attitudes of the Chinese people, their unprecedented emphasis on development and construction, and their connection and respect for the historical past.
As the Chinese economy continues to modernize and expand, so does their culture and their influence in the world. A wise person once said, "What comes around, goes around." China once had the greatest empire in the world. I have no doubt that in the 21st century they are well on their way to reclaiming that title.
Monday, July 19, 2004
Ken Jennings
Alex and Ken: Together Forever?
Surely you've all heard about this now legendary Jeopardy! champion who has reigned more than 30 consecutive days and has won over a million dollars in prize money. This guy is amazing. How does he know so much? It's really incredible.
At this point he and Alex Trebek are so chummy together, the other contestants tend to sink into the background, like bad window-dressing in someone's home that probably won't be there the next time you visit. He and Alex even have a witty repartee going, as if Ken is the co-host or sidekick of the show. He's Alex Trebek's Paul Schaffer or Ed McMahon.
Alex and Ken have spent so much time together, they finish each other's sentences. On tonight's show Ken chose the first Daily Double clue and said "I'll wager --."
Alex interrupted, "$6,800?"
"That's right, the usual," Ken replied with that golden smile of his. It's like Ken is a regular at Alex Trebek's bar and being a good bartender, Trebek anticipates his customer's desires without them even having to ask.
A few moments later Ken picked the second Daily Double question. The audience applauded appreciatively while the other two contestants turned to each other in resigned conversation. By this time those two could have made plans to spend the weekend together. But Ken surprised Alex by only wagering $5,000.
"Why?!" Alex questioned painfully, like a lover whose trust has been betrayed.
"I'm trying to keep a safe margin between my opponents," Ken replied.
"If you say so," Alex chided. "You know, I could easily make the wagers for you as long as you answer the clues correctly," Alex offered with a forgiving smile.
"Yeah, why am I even here at this point?" laughed Ken, head in his hand.
Ha ha! Oh boy, it's all fun and games (literally) at "Alex and Ken's place." Or should it be "Ken and Alex's"? Hmmm. Alex has been on the show for so long, but Ken is the reason people are tuning in these days. Soon Ken's agents will be asking for equal billing with Alex. And who knows, maybe Ken will take over as Jeopardy! host someday when Alex realizes he can't keep up with the 30-year-old whippersnapper.
How long can Ken Jennings last? We'll just have to tune in and see...
Follow the link below for a funny audio commentary from comedian Jake Johannsen:
NPR : Ken Jennings, 'Jeopardy!' Legend in the Making
Alex and Ken: Together Forever?
Surely you've all heard about this now legendary Jeopardy! champion who has reigned more than 30 consecutive days and has won over a million dollars in prize money. This guy is amazing. How does he know so much? It's really incredible.
At this point he and Alex Trebek are so chummy together, the other contestants tend to sink into the background, like bad window-dressing in someone's home that probably won't be there the next time you visit. He and Alex even have a witty repartee going, as if Ken is the co-host or sidekick of the show. He's Alex Trebek's Paul Schaffer or Ed McMahon.
Alex and Ken have spent so much time together, they finish each other's sentences. On tonight's show Ken chose the first Daily Double clue and said "I'll wager --."
Alex interrupted, "$6,800?"
"That's right, the usual," Ken replied with that golden smile of his. It's like Ken is a regular at Alex Trebek's bar and being a good bartender, Trebek anticipates his customer's desires without them even having to ask.
A few moments later Ken picked the second Daily Double question. The audience applauded appreciatively while the other two contestants turned to each other in resigned conversation. By this time those two could have made plans to spend the weekend together. But Ken surprised Alex by only wagering $5,000.
"Why?!" Alex questioned painfully, like a lover whose trust has been betrayed.
"I'm trying to keep a safe margin between my opponents," Ken replied.
"If you say so," Alex chided. "You know, I could easily make the wagers for you as long as you answer the clues correctly," Alex offered with a forgiving smile.
"Yeah, why am I even here at this point?" laughed Ken, head in his hand.
Ha ha! Oh boy, it's all fun and games (literally) at "Alex and Ken's place." Or should it be "Ken and Alex's"? Hmmm. Alex has been on the show for so long, but Ken is the reason people are tuning in these days. Soon Ken's agents will be asking for equal billing with Alex. And who knows, maybe Ken will take over as Jeopardy! host someday when Alex realizes he can't keep up with the 30-year-old whippersnapper.
How long can Ken Jennings last? We'll just have to tune in and see...
Follow the link below for a funny audio commentary from comedian Jake Johannsen:
NPR : Ken Jennings, 'Jeopardy!' Legend in the Making
This Land
...this is the funniest thing I have ever seen on the 'net.... http://www.jibjab.com/thisland.html
...this is the funniest thing I have ever seen on the 'net.... http://www.jibjab.com/thisland.html
Tuesday, July 13, 2004
Thursday, July 08, 2004
Here's a picture of me (second from the left) last Saturday (July 3rd) at the BowieNetters party in Redondo Beach. It was held at the apartment of the lovely Paula (aka Squeakie), the girl in front wearing the Bowie T-shirt. It's a great place situated on the bluff overlooking the beach...gorgeous view!
BowieNetters party in Redondo Beach!!
I'm using a new program called Hello to post the pictures. I'm not sure if I like it yet -- the software is not the most intuitive -- but it's a start.
BowieNetters party in Redondo Beach!!
I'm using a new program called Hello to post the pictures. I'm not sure if I like it yet -- the software is not the most intuitive -- but it's a start.
Tuesday, July 06, 2004
No wonder I'm famous!
I had no idea why I was so famous amongst my colleagues on BowieNet, David Bowie's official website. Everyone I meet from the online community seems to have heard of me or know something about me, even though I don't post much on the message boards.
Well, I happened to be browsing through the Bowie News section from a couple of months ago, back when Bowie & his band returned to LA to play the famous Greek Theater in Hollywood. I wrote a review of that show and posted it on the message boards. I didn't notice that the Bowie News moderator chose my review to be featured on the official Bowie News page!
No wonder I'm famous amongst BowieNetters!! Every person who visited the news page (thousands of 'em) saw my review!
If you haven't already read the review and you're just dying to have a crack at it (shyeah, right) you can find it on the BowieNet news page -- you may have to scroll back to April 25th (my review is the third one down). Or simply visit my blog entry here.
I had no idea why I was so famous amongst my colleagues on BowieNet, David Bowie's official website. Everyone I meet from the online community seems to have heard of me or know something about me, even though I don't post much on the message boards.
Well, I happened to be browsing through the Bowie News section from a couple of months ago, back when Bowie & his band returned to LA to play the famous Greek Theater in Hollywood. I wrote a review of that show and posted it on the message boards. I didn't notice that the Bowie News moderator chose my review to be featured on the official Bowie News page!
No wonder I'm famous amongst BowieNetters!! Every person who visited the news page (thousands of 'em) saw my review!
If you haven't already read the review and you're just dying to have a crack at it (shyeah, right) you can find it on the BowieNet news page -- you may have to scroll back to April 25th (my review is the third one down). Or simply visit my blog entry here.
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