Photo courtesy Dale Morris
Paul Hoffman plays the Lion, Jarret Heber is the Scarecrow and Jeff Reardon is the Tin Man in the Friday and Saturday night productions of “The Wiz,” at Pagosa Springs High School. Both performances are at 7 p.m.

Photo courtesy Dale Morris
Paul Hoffman, left, is the Lion, Clara Barber is Dorothy, and Jeff Reardon is the Tin Man in the Pagosa Springs High School production of “The Wiz.” There are 7 p.m. performances tomorrow and Saturday at the high school auditorium.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Ease on down the road with ‘The Wiz’

Four months of preparation, casting, rehearsing, set building, costuming, sewing, more rehearsing, singing, dancing, painting, and more rehearsing has come to an end, as Pagosa Springs High School opened their spring musical “The Wiz” with a preview performance this past Tuesday. 

A modern version of the classic “The Wizard of Oz,” by L. Frank Baum, it is a production for all ages that tells the old tale with a twist that not only includes familiar characters such as Munchkins, evil and good witches,  and flying monkeys, but also offers a dancing tornado, scary Kalidahs in the forest, and Winkie slaves. 

The musical genre is varied, including soul, jazz, rock and roll and classical, played beautifully by our 14-piece community and student orchestra. 

Please attend, and support performing arts in our schools, and the members of the cast and crew who have been working for the past 10 weeks to bring “The Wiz” to the Pagosa stage. 

Final performances are today, May 1, and Friday and Saturday, May 2 and 3 — all at 7 p.m. at the high school auditorium. 

Tickets are available at the high school, the Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center and at the door.  Avoid the long lines performance eves and purchase your tickets early. 

“Ease on Down the Road” with PSHS music and theater departments.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Cinco de Mayo Fiesta at community center Saturday

This Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the community center will sponsoring a special event — the Cinco de Mayo Fiesta.

This family-style “fiesta” is open to participants of all ages and we have planned different activities for adults and the youngsters. Entrance is free.

The fiesta will feature dancing and dance exhibition; singing by local talents; music by Lester Rivas; games like loterria, piñatas and more; and other entertainment for the entire family.

Of course, there will be food serve by the Guadalupanas at nominal cost — tamales, posole, chile, frito pie, beans, tortilla, biscochitos, hotdogs and beverages. If you’re early, you can purchase tamales to take home. I believe the group is preparing 1,000 tamales for this event. To complement these yummy foods, the center will sell Mexican beers.

Plan to come and stay long enough to participate in the La Marcha, a very popular group dance done during Latino weddings.

Don’t miss this first-time cultural gathering at the community center. It is fiesta time in Pagosa country.

For more information, call 264-4152.

Also, the Spanish Fiesta Club is having a dance Saturday evening at Chavolo’s Bar & Grille on Piedra Road (formerly PJ’s). Call Jeff Laydon, 264-3686 for particulars.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Community Choir spring concert

 The Pagosa Springs Community Choir, under the direction of Larry Elginer, is nearing the concert dates of May 10 at 7 p.m., and May 11, (Mother’s Day), at 4 p.m. 

There will be a wide variety of styles in choral works, with a number of solos — enough to please every taste.

 “Instrument of Peace,” with soloist Sandra Behr, is a sensitive musical request for the qualities of one who wants to bring peace to the world. “Change the World,” made famous in a recording by Eric Clapton, features soloist Perry Scjolin, in a blues style arrangement of this popular song.

 On the lighter side, the choir will go into a “ragtime” mode to Cole Porter’s “Anything Goes.” The choir will feature new choir member and first-time soloist Candy Flaming, who not only has a great singing voice, but is also one of Pagosa’s foremost actresses.

 Baroque music, ragtime, spirituals, and much more, will be the program for this concert. Don’t miss it.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Photo courtesy Paul Roberts
They couldn’t help themselves, they had to dance. These four youngsters took center stage during last Saturday’s concert by master Celtic guitarist Jerry Barlow and helped entertain a large and appreciative crowd at the concert sponsored by Elation Center for the Arts.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Photo courtesy FolkWest
You can take in some Fiery Mountain Music from the Biscuit Burners on Reservoir Hill at this year’s Folk ‘N Bluegrass festival, June 7 and 8, and the band will be one of the two featured bands at the Free Friday kickoff concert Friday, June 6, at the Gazebo in Town Park.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Fiery Mountain Music from The Biscuit Burners

The importance of an artist’s work can be measured by the response from their peers, the media and their audience. That being said, the world has taken notice of The Biscuit Burners, and has welcomed their Fiery Mountain Music with open arms.

Whether it is national praise from Aerosmith’s Joe Perry or Billy Cardine’s performance with the three-time Grammy Winning Edgar Meyer at Carnegie Hall, the musical community respects The Biscuit Burners. Their resume includes appearances on BBC World TV’s Destination Music” National Public Radio’s Mountain Stage and XM’s Bluegrass Junction, along with coverage in magazines such as Singer & Musician, Bluegrass Unlimited, Dirty Linen and American Songwriter.

Not only can Pagosans take in some Fiery Mountain Music from the Biscuit Burners on Reservoir Hill at this year’s Folk ‘N Bluegrass festival, taking place June 7 and 8, but the band will be one of the two featured bands at the Free Friday kickoff concert on Friday, June 6, at the Gazebo in Town Park. The Biscuit Burners will start around 6:30 p.m., immediately following a set from the Belleville Outfit. Everyone is welcome to attend this performance; no ticket is necessary.

With a fresh approach to acoustic music with roots that date as far back as mountain music can reach, The Biscuit Burners offer their Fiery Mountain Music with innovative instrumentation, resplendent harmonies, and captivating original material. Their unique yet familiar material pulls strong from their respect of traditional mountain music, their love of bluegrass and classic country, and their appreciation of music from the far corners of the world.

In 2004, The Biscuit Burners quickly established themselves and their Fiery Mountain Music as a complete package for acoustic entertainment. Along with being showcased at the International Bluegrass Music Association Conference and appearing at the Historic Ryman Auditorium with Vassar Clements and Rhonda Vincent, they had their debut album chosen in the Top 10 Bluegrass Albums of 2004 by the Chicago Tribune. Their song, “Come On Darlin,” was named the IPOD Hotpick Bluegrass Song of 2004. In September of 2005, the band released their second album, “A Mountain Apart.” With this release, The Biscuit Burners presented an album full of energy, passion, and originality. “A Mountain Apart” is a testament to the band’s devotion and dedication to their fiery mountain sound and was in the Top 20 of the Roots Music Report National Bluegrass Airplay chart for the first five months of its release.

Not only do The Biscuit Burners take their Fiery Mountain Music to America’s finest venues, but they also take their knowledge and passion for music to schools across America as a part of their Appalachian Culture Music Program. Their presentations range from history lessons to instructional lessons and are customized from students in kindergarten to high school. From Oregon to Virginia, The Biscuit Burners have introduced and inspired America’s youth in hopes to preserve this music that they have dedicated their lives to. The Biscuit Burners are Billy Cardine (resophonic guitar), Dan BIetz (guitar), Mary Lucey (bass), Odessa Jorgensen (fiddle), and Wes Corbett (banjo).

The Biscuit Burners will play three sets at the Pagosa Folk ‘N Bluegrass festival on Saturday, June 7 — noon on the main stage; an acoustic set on the Rendezvous Stage at 4 p.m. and a latenight performance at 10 p.m.  Tickets to the festival are available downtown at Moonlight Books. Tickets and additional information are also available online at www.folkwest.com or by calling toll free (877) 472-4672.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Volunteers needed for Pagosa Folk ‘N Bluegrass Festival  

FolkWest is currently seeking volunteers to work between 6-8 hours at this year’s Folk ‘N Bluegrass Festival, taking place June 6, 7 and 8 in Town Park and on Reservoir Hill. Experience is not necessary.

 A wide range of positions are available and all volunteers will receive a free two-day ticket to the event. Positions on the security crew involve working two four-hour shifts and those volunteers will receive a ticket, plus a T-shirt and free on-site camping. Good people skills and a friendly attitude are a must for all volunteer slots at the festival.

 FolkWest is a 501(c)(3) non-profit and receives funding from the Colorado Council on the Arts.

If you are interested in joining the festival family of volunteers, call Crista at (970) 731-5582.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Photo courtesy Music in the Mountains
Give concert tickets as a Mother’s Day gift this year. Pianist Aviram Reichert is one of the world-class artists performing in this seventh season of Music in the Mountains in Pagosa Springs. Tickets are available at the Pagosa Springs Chamber of Commerce. You may also call the Chamber office at 264-2360 to reserve this unique musical gift for Mom. 

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Concert tickets for Mother’s Day

I’ve been a mom for a long time. I love it. It’s the best job I’ve ever had.

Most of my friends are moms, too, so I speak from a wealth of collective experience when I say that I know what moms want for Mother’s Day. Moms want something that will take us away from the mundane. Something that will cause us to put the cares of our everyday busy lives aside.

And here’s how to make that happen: This year, give Mom tickets to Music in the Mountains concerts.

Let me explain. There’s hardly anything more enjoyable than listening to classical music, or some spicy Latin jazz, or a heaping serving of roof-raising Irish music, all the while gazing at the fabulous creation that surrounds us here in Pagosa. That’s the experience that the mom in your life will have when you take her to one (or more) of seven glorious concerts that will take place at Bootjack Ranch this summer. She will consider it as the musical equivalent of “Calgon, take me away!”

Here’s a brief listing of the musical events being offered in this seventh Music in the Mountains Pagosa season:

• Friday, July 11 — An elegant benefit concert featuring violinist Philippe Quint and pianist David Korevaar. Sumptuous hors d’oeuvres and libations are included, and much of the money raised goes toward scholarships for music students.

• Wednesday, July 16 — You and Mom may not be able to sit down for long after Irish fiddler Eileen Ivers and Immigrant Soul start to play. You’ll both be totally engaged after about the first 60 seconds of this breathtaking show.

• Friday, July 18 — If you think Mom would prefer some soothing “Poetry in Music,” then how about the Schumann “Piano Quintet?” Performed by festival favorites Vadim Gluzman, Arkady Fomin, violist Valeri Avramenko, cellist Jesus Castro Balbi, and pianist Angela Joffe, this exquisite piece promises to take mom away better than ten Calgon bubble baths ever could.

• Wednesday, July 23 will bring another chamber concert entitled “Taking Flight.” The program will feature a Brahms horn trio as well as “Serenade” by Antonin Dvorak. Performers for this rich musical fare will be Edward Newman and Elisabeth Adkins of the world-famous Adkins family.

• Friday, July 25 — Here’s a concert that will surely make as many memories as it brings back. “Pops on Parade” will feature the full Music in the Mountains festival orchestra under the baton of Carl Topilow. Pops concerts typically contain a mix of Broadway show tunes, lighter classical fare, and pieces that will put a long-lasting smile on Mom’s face.

• Sunday, July 27 — Does Mom start to sway and smile at the sound of a Latin beat? If so, this is the concert for her. The Mambo Kings, who played to a sold-out audience last year, will perform their feverishly passionate brand of Cuban Latin jazz once again. Just so you know ahead of time, Mom may never get the sparkle out of her eyes after you take her to this event.

Friday, Aug. 1 — This concert, entitled “Passion and Power,” features the full festival orchestra under the direction of newly-appointed festival conductor Guillermo Figueroa. A foxtrot for orchestra will fill the air on this evening, along with Beethoven’s “Symphony No. 3 in E-flat” (the “Eroica” symphony) and a passionate performance of Schumann’s “Piano Concerto in A Minor,” featuring celebrated pianist Aviram Reichert.

There you have it — a veritable bouquet of melodic choices to delight your mother, your wife, your daughter, your aunt and your grandmother. But don’t wait to get your musical gift for these women in your life. Tickets, which are selling quickly this season, are available at the Pagosa Chamber of Commerce on Hot Springs Boulevard. Chamber concert tickets are $40, orchestra tickets are $60, tickets for Eileen Ivers and The Mambo Kings are $45, and the benefit event tickets are $175. You can call 264-2360 to reserve your tickets now.

Think of it: This could be the beginning of a great Mother’s Day tradition.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Chuck Bob at the Movies

By Charles Streetman

Bittersweet, and unpredictable

New to DVD is “Juno,” the last of the Best Picture contenders at this year’s Academy Awards.

Despite the potential for controversy over the subject matter, I think moviegoers will find this film more pleasant than the other nominees, and here’s why.

Oscar-nominated actress Ellen Page plays Juno MacGuff, an intelligent, though smart-mouthed high school student who recklessly becomes impregnated by her classmate and best friend, the ever-so-geeky Paulie Bleeker (Michael Cera).

Juno is more than aware that she lacks the responsibility for parenthood and her initial decision is to have an abortion. Yet, in the end, she is unwilling to go through with it and changes her mind, opting instead to adopt her unborn child out to a potentially loving couple. Juno finds such a couple through an ad in a newspaper, and with the hesitantly garnered support of her parents, she seeks them out.

When Juno meets Mark (Jason Bateman) and Vanessa (Jennifer Garner) Loring, her first impression assures her that they are an ideal couple to raise her unborn child. In truth, all Juno really wants is to get the whole situation done and over with so that she can pick up the pieces and move on with her life.

The months pass as Juno makes an effort to befriend the Lorings while she keeps them informed of how her pregnancy is progressing. All the while, Juno withdraws from Paulie as her anger over the pregnancy begins to outweigh her genuine affections for him. Amidst her conflicting emotions, Juno also learns that Mark and Vanessa are divorcing. Suddenly, Juno begins to have second thoughts on whether or not she wants to adopt her unborn child to them.

“Juno” sounds fairly simple and predictable. However, the movie takes many unexpected turns with both its story and characters. First impressions aren’t everything for what seem to be typical characters in this movie, and “Juno’s” cast comes full circle in a realistic and convincing sense.

Take the Lorings, for example: at first, Mark appears hip and open-minded toward Juno, but in reality he’s very immature and carelessly wants to discard his structured family life to reclaim his youthful independence. As for Vanessa, she seems overly anxious and controlling when first introduced, but is shown in a later scene as calm and gentle when Juno watches her interact with a friend’s daughter, proving that Vanessa is more than capable of raising a child.

As serious as the film may sound, “Juno” is still a comedy. The dialogue is witty, sometimes even downright cynical, and cleverly written, while a number of understated scenes stand out in either an awkward or deadpan fashion. In one scene where Juno drops the bomb on her parents that she’s pregnant, they openly admit they were hoping she was going to confess to either being expelled or addicted to hard drugs instead. The dry wittiness of the film is true to its characters and well suited for the seriousness of the story.

In the end, “Juno” is bittersweet. While the story doesn’t end in tragedy, Juno’s pregnancy leaves lasting scars on everyone involved. Juno and Paulie come to terms with their feelings for each other and their reckless actions that started the whole mess, while the incident brings the Lorings to acknowledge their differences and make the difficult choice that will allow them both to pursue what they want the most. In the end, everyone changes, for better or worse.

With the other Best Picture nominees delving into stories of crime, corporate corruption, murder, religious radicalism, betrayal and redemption, this coming-of-age tragicomedy makes it stand out as the underdog nominee, but no less deserving than its competitors. While “Juno” lost Best Picture to the more deserving “No Country for Old Men,” it did take home Best Original Screenplay. Still, more than the other nominated films, “Juno” gives its viewers a much-needed and sincerely compassionate feel-good story that many will find more pleasing than the darker, more despondent stories told by the other nominees.

The single disc edition offers a number of worthwhile features including commentaries from director Jason Reitman and writer Diablo Cody, cast and crew interviews, screen tests, deleted scenes, a gag reel, gag takes, a “making-of” documentary and four other featurettes. The two-disc edition offers the same features, but the bonus disc contains a digital copy of the film that you can download to your computer.

Humane Society — a new phase and a Fashion Show Brunch

Wow, what an amazing year it has been for the Humane Society of Pagosa Springs!

The first phrase of the new animal shelter is complete and fully operational; donations for the “Homeward Bound” capital fund-raising campaign continue to roll in; and homeless animals in Archuleta County continue to have a safe refuge.

Now, Get ready for the second annual Humane Society Fashion Show Brunch!

The theme for this year’s stellar fashion show brunch will be “It’s Reigning Cats and Dogs.” The brunch will be held this Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Pagosa Springs Community Center.

A limited amount of tickets will still be available at the door, so it is still not too late to participate.

Local pianist Rada Neal will again provide the beautiful musical background atmosphere on a baby grand piano graciously donated by Rob Shoffner, a local piano tuner. This annual springtime event is a Pagosa “not-to-be-missed” social soirée.

Just over a year ago, ground was broken to begin the construction of the Phase I building on the new Humane Society of Pagosa Springs new shelter campus located at 465 Cloman Blvd. Although construction suffered numerous delays, the shelter was finally completed and rescued Pagosa kitties and puppies moved into their new home in late November of 2007.

This completion of the shelter at the new campus was just another in a long line of major accomplishments for the Humane Society in Pagosa Country.

Originally founded in 1984 by Debra Rinker Brown, the Humane Society has seen continuous growth in its efforts to provide a safe haven for animals in need. In 1985 the old shelter adjacent to Steven’s Lake was constructed; 1994 saw the introduction of the Humane Society Thrift Store that supports the animal shelter activities and helps cover operational expenses. A year later, in 1995, the Humane Society started its first low-cost spay/neuter program. By the year 2000, they began a program to microchip all adoptable animals. In 2005, the Humane Society of Pagosa Springs acted as one of the central receiving points for caring for and returning animals rescued from Hurricane Katrina. Additionally, through the years they have established an Emergency Medical Program for injured animals; launched numerous educational programs for elementary school students, staff and pet owners; introduced aggressive spay and neutering programs; and enlisted over 125 dedicated volunteers to help throughout the programs. In 2007, even while dealing with construction, temporary housing and transition challenges, more than 175 animals were provided shelter, and of these more than 60 were reunited with their owners or placed in new homes.

The opportunity for the consideration of a new shelter occurred in 2000. That year, an 11.25-acre parcel was purchased at the Cloman site. Two private donors provided the funds for this all-important purchase. Last year’s move to the new shelter brought about the realization of what started as just a long-term dream and plan. These new “digs” will meet the projected animal sheltering needs for approximately the next 10 years and allow for future expansion when it becomes necessary. The build out of the Cloman campus occurs in three distinct phases.

Phase I is done. It consists of the construction of the first building. The 3,000 square-foot building currently houses both incoming and adoptable animals. This could only occur through a special exemption granted by the Colorado Department of Agriculture that oversees the Humane Society’s operations. Normally, the Department of Agriculture requires there be total separation of incoming/isolation animals and adoptable animals. Understanding that the current shelter site could no longer be used after the summer of 2007, due to the scheduled expansion of Steven’s Lake by the Pagosa Area Water and Sanitation District, the Department of Agriculture allowed a special consideration. Therefore, there remains an urgency to continue fund-raising efforts so the next phase can begin. Building Phase II is a must, and fund-raising must cover the construction of the entire facility – not just the Phase I building.

Phase II will see the construction of the second building. This building will house the adoption and education center. Upon completion of the Phase II building, the Phase I building will be used as an isolation facility for newly acquired animals and impounded animals awaiting court resolution.

The final phase, Phase III, will result in the creation of a Memorial Garden, walking trails and a dog park. Much of the 11.25 acres will remain available for future expansion while still meeting the needs of today’s animals and owners.

This continues to be probably the single most important challenge facing the Humane Society of Pagosa Springs today and for the near future — funding these capital expansions. The Humane Society receives no funding whatsoever from any national animal care groups including Humane Society of United States or United Way. All funding comes through local fund-raising events, animal adoptions and surrender fees, proceeds from the Thrift Store, payment for animal control services from Archuleta County and the Town of Pagosa Springs, and grants from private foundations, and generous donations from private individuals.

This funding has allowed the Humane Society to continue to operate at a level of excellence, while still providing a much more cost effective and efficient method of animal care than having the town and/or county build, staff and manage impound facilities at taxpayer expense. The cost of the new facilities and a five-year operating reserve will cost $1.2 million dollars. To date, approximately $920,000 has been raised towards this project. Therefore, many opportunities for members of the community to participate in supporting these important activities still remain.

To meet this ongoing need, many fund-raiser activities have taken place over the last year. Following the lead of last year’s very successful Fashion Show Brunch, this year’s exciting and fun-filled event will take place this Saturday, April 26. The snow is almost gone and it is time to reward yourself with an enjoyable brunch with friends. All monies raised from this fund-raiser are dedicated towards the “Homeward Bound” campaign, the funding of the capital projects.

However, the reality is that the Humane Society of Pagosa Springs still faces the most important challenge in its long history of change and accomplishments. As in the past, they will depend greatly on the generosity and kindness that runs throughout this very special community. For all that have benefited from the people, functions, and facilities of Humane Society, now is the time to continue to show appreciation and support for all they do and will continue to do.

For more information on how you can contribute personally to the Homeward Bound campaign — monetarily or otherwise — call (970) 264-5549 or e-mail homewardbound@centurytel.net.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Photo courtesy Jeff Laydon
Variety Express will entertain at the 2008 Cinco de Mayo Celebration Dance. The band is a local and regional favorite. The dance will be held Saturday May 3, at PJ’s Restaurant and Saloon.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Cinco de Mayo Celebration Dance benefits Fiesta Club

The fantastic sounds of Variety Express will be featured at The 2008 Cinco de Mayo Celebration Dance.

This band, led by Hank Rivas, has been playing since 1983. Their mix of music is genuine to the celebrations of the local Hispanic culture. They have performed hundreds of times and the dancing rarely stops when they entertain. At weddings, concerts, festivals, fiestas, reunions and countless church functions, Variety Express celebrates life — and brings life to any party.

They have again agreed to perform at a benefit for the Pagosa Springs Spanish Fiesta Club. Over the years the Rivas family has many times graciously supported The Pagosa Springs Spanish Fiesta Club with their talents and performances.

The Dance will be held Saturday May 3. Doors open at 8 p.m. and the band starts playing at 9. The venue is PJ’s Restaurant and Saloon on Piedra Road. PJ’s kitchen will be open late and they will also be offering great drink specials. The ticket price of $12 per person includes a chance to win donated prizes. Tickets can be purchased in advance at the Pagosa Springs Chamber of Commerce.

If you need more information, contact Jeff Laydon at 264-3686.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

‘The Wiz’ opens at PSHS next week

The Pagosa Springs High School production of “The Wiz” opens next week and our cast, crew and orchestra can’t wait to ease on down the Yellow Brick Road with you.

Advanced tickets are now available for purchase at $5 each (open seating) at the high school during school hours, or downtown at the Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center.  Get your tickets early and avoid standing in line. 

“The Wiz” will be presented Tuesday, April 29, and Thursday, Friday and Saturday, May 1, 2 and 3, with each performance at 7 p.m. 

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Photo courtesy Deb Aspen
Jerry Granok and Jennifer Matcham, a Pagosa couple and members of the Let’s Dance Club, will perform a Rumba freestyle exhibition at 2 p.m. at the Cinco de Mayo event scheduled at the Pagosa Springs Community Center. 

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Community center to hold Cinco de Mayo event

Cinco de Mayo is a widely celebrated holiday in the United States, and Pagosa is part of this nationwide event, with activities planned at the community center.

This will be another community effort that the center sponsors. Also, this is my last event at the center, and I hopes that this will become an annual tradition in Pagosa Country. So, mark your calendar and come to the center for this big celebration. Entry is free.

The family-style event is Saturday, May 3, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and it promises to provide a fun and exciting time for everyone who attends. It will also provide much needed time for families — parents, children, grandchildren, aunts, uncles, brothers, sisters and friends — to get together and reconnect with everyone under one roof. After all, family togetherness is an aspect of this celebration, in addition to food and dancing.

The celebration will feature food provided by the Guadalupanas, at nominal cost. The menu includes tamales, posole, chile, frito pies, beans, tortillas, biscochitos, lemonade and hotdogs. The group will also sell tamales you can take home. To complement these dishes, the center will sell Mexican beers.

There will be a dance exhibition by Deb Aspen and Charles Johnson and several others from Deb’s group. Take note of these times if you’re into dancing: 11:30 a.m. Chili Cha Cha demo by Deb and Charles; Argentine Tango at 1 p.m. by Les Linton and Deb; and Rumba at 2 p.m. by Jerry Granok and Jennifer Matcham. In addition to these dance exhibitions, Deb will also dance a demo and hold contests for all interested. She has awesome prizes for the winners.

Everyone will be encouraged to join in the La Marcha, a very popular group dance done during weddings. This is really going to be fun.

Aside from dancing, there will be singing with Ricardo Hernandez, and a surprise young male guest will join him. I heard that Hank Rivas’ girls will also sing for the audience. Lester Rivas will provide the music for the whole event. Lester is planning to have a karaoke-singing session during the fiesta.

How about something inviting and fun for the youngsters? We’ll have piñatas, a balloon relay, a fishing game, face painting and more. Heather Hunt from the Town of Pagosa Springs Park Fun program will have a booth to keep our young guests busy and entertained. Our volunteers Liz Jernigan and Cindy Grandquist will conduct storytelling sessions throughout the event.

The “loterria” or Mexican bingo is for all ages and winners you can take home cash prizes.

Todos estan bienvenidos. Everyone is welcome. Dress up fiesta-style and win a fantastic prize. Or just come Pagosa style and have lots of fun.

I would like to thank the following for saying “yes” and helping to make this event a reality: Jenny Bell and the Guadalupanas, Lucy Gonzales, Ron Gustafson, Vita Herrick and Beth Jones from the U.S. Forest Service, Carina Monterroso and Jeff Laydon..

For more information, call 264-4152.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Music Boosters to perform ‘Oliver,’ set auditions

Pagosa Springs Music Boosters is rallying around their new Summer production of “Oliver” and have scheduled auditions for this classic Broadway musical for May 5 and 8, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the high school band room. 

If these dates do not work for you and you are interested in auditioning, please contact us to set up an appointment. 

We regret any inconvenience the cancellation of our original auditions for “Annie” might have caused.  Due to a current National Tour of “Annie” many community theaters and schools were turned down for performance rights this year; we plan to try again in the summer of 2009. 

 “Oliver,” a well-crafted tale based on the Dickens novel, engages audiences everywhere with its drama and outstanding musical numbers.  It was first presented in London, then enjoyed its first Broadway run where it won several Tony awards, followed by several revivals. Music, lyrics and book are by Lionel Bart. The musical was produced for the Broadway stage by David Merrick and Donald Albery. 

Set in London, the timeless classic follows the adventures and misadventures of a group of  gang orphans led and befriended by Oliver, while at the same time manipulated and fooled by not-so-well meaning crooks.

 The casting of “Oliver” is wide open. We are looking for men and women of all ages for the lead roles of Fagin, Nancy and Bill Sykes, as well as for exciting supporting and chorus roles.  “Oliver” has many opportunities for children’s roles, which is one of the main reasons we chose it.  We are seeking young actors from the age of 9 and up — girls and boys — to portray both the Gang Kids and Workhouse Children.

 Come prepared to sing one verse of a song of your choosing, either from “Oliver” or another Broadway tune.  A script reading and group dance audition is part of the process.  An accompanist will be provided. 

We welcome veteran performers and newcomers alike. 

If you have questions, or need more information, call Lisa Hartley, Music Boosters president at 731-2130 or see www.pagosamusicboosters.org.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Photo courtesy Jerry Barlow
Elation Center for the Arts presents master Celtic guitarist Jerry Barlow in concert Saturday, April 26, at the Pagosa Lakes Clubhouse.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

ECA presents ‘Jerry Barlow: Master Celtic Guitarist’

Elation Center for the Arts presents “Jerry Barlow: Master Celtic Guitarist” in concert at 7 p.m. Saturday, April 26, at the Pagosa Lakes Clubhouse.

A consummate performer who has been on the A-list of concert musicians in Colorado for years, Barlow performs his skillful rendition of jigs, reels and airs — plus his gorgeous original compositions — with a subtle and beautiful style.

Barlow’s music is fluid and melodic. He dramatically enhances the tone of his guitar by tuning it quite differently. His finger style is an adaptation of classical technique, but played on a steel string guitar.

“It’s an approach that began developing in the British Isles about forty years ago,” says Barlow, “when guitar players were reaching for innovative ways to capture the magic of ancient melodies that had traditionally been played on bagpipe, fiddle and harp.”

Barlow’s refreshing music soothes the soul, warms the heart and lifts the spirit. The title song from his CD, “Bring Down the Storm,” won the prestigious Independent Music Award.

“I love melody,” says Barlow, “and Celtic music has melody in great abundance. It’s music with great depth and beauty, and it chronicles the emotional experience of an entire culture.”

Barlow is a warm and accessible performer who brings traditional Celtic tunes alive by sharing the humor and legends behind his music. According to the entertainment director of a Colorado cultural center, “Jerry Barlow’s performances reveal a performer skilled, funny and riveting. Out of the many musicians performing today, the vast majority are skilled in either performing on their instrument or in entertaining an audience. It’s very rare and extremely enjoyable to see a musician at the very top of his craft in both areas.”

Born and raised in Denver, Barlow bought his first guitar with $50 he won in a bingo game when he was 15. In 1977, he moved to Nashville where he performed at all sorts of country music venues and wrote songs for country music stars such as Conway Twitty, Eddy Arnold and Jeannie Pruitt.

“After eighteen years in Nashville, I moved to Eastern Tennessee where I began listening to Appalachian musicians who were incorporating a lot of Celtic influences into their playing,” he says. “The more I got into it, the more I realized that where my head was really at, was in the Celtic side of things. It was like starting over, with alternate tunings and a different style of playing.”

The buzz is still going about a successful concert Barlow performed in Pagosa several years ago. According to Bill Hudson who presented Barlow for the Whistle Pig Concert Series, it was “one of the most enjoyable concerts we’ve presented in the past five years. Our audience alternated between rapt silence during the guitar pieces and practically rolling-in-the-aisles laughter at Jerry’s stories in between. We heartily recommend Jerry.”

Advance tickets for $12 are available at Higher Grounds Coffee Company and online at elationarts.org. Tickets at the door are $15 for adults. Young people, 18 and under, are invited to attend at no charge.

Free desserts and coffee will be provided at intermission. Bring a dessert to share if you wish. If you would like to help make this event a success by volunteering your help, call 731-3117.

Pagosa Lakes Clubhouse is located at 230 Port Ave. in the Vista subdivision of Pagosa Lakes. Take U.S. 160 to Vista Boulevard. Turn north on Vista and left on Port. The clubhouse is at the end of Port in the PLPOA complex.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Photo courtesy FolkWest
The hardest working festival band around, the Boulder Acoustic Society, returns to Pagosa Springs for a full slate of appearances at the Pagosa Folk ’N Bluegrass Festival. The band appears on Reservoir Hill on Saturday, June 7, at 3 p.m. on the Rendezvous acoustic stage or at 9 p.m. on the late night stage. They’ll perform on the Folk ‘N Bluegrass main stage Sunday, June 8, at noon and again on the Rendezvous Stage at 4 p.m.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Boulder Acoustic Society returns to Pagosa for festival

Each member of Boulder Acoustic Society comes from a different musical world, and the resulting mix is what makes their music so special.

The band will return to Pagosa Springs for the Folk ‘N Bluegrass Festival, taking place June 7 and 8 on Reservoir Hill.

They put on several crowd-pleasing performances at last year’s Four Corners Folk Festival, including a memorable and totally spontaneous after-hours set in the empty beer garden. Boulder Acoustic Society also won the hearts of Pagosans at a Whistle Pig concert several years ago.

Shredding guitar licks, soaring gypsy violin, a little ukulele and the thump of an old time bass bounce around with a jazz accordion and creative percussion to create a totally new sound. It is American Roots music with the edge of punk rock and the grace of chamber music. This joyful chaos has defined BAS for the last five years of relentless touring, recording and rehearsing. They have crisscrossed the country countless times building a following the old fashioned way: by making connections with fans one at a time. From festivals to rock clubs, dive bars to house concerts, BAS has spread the word. And who is listening? Hipsters and hippies, punks and grandmas, kids and pickers, folkies and yuppies all “get it” where it matters: deep down in that musical place that defies description.

Their most recent CD, “NOW,” was released in January 2007. Brian Johnson of Marquee Magazine said, “‘NOW’ is the type of album that old time traditional artists would have made had today’s technology been available back then. It’s crisp, refined and gives brilliant credit to the instrumentation, all without sounding too slick or overproduced. The light bouncy tracks simultaneously pay homage to American roots music, while also kicking sand in its face by boldly saying, ‘This is how we roll in Boulder.’ The band’s presentation is immaculate but loose, and it comes across as fun for listeners. It’s rawness refined and it’s damn good.”

Adventurous music fans can catch Boulder Acoustic Society on Reservoir Hill on Saturday, June 7, at 3 p.m. on the Rendezvous acoustic stage or at 9 p.m. on the late night stage. They’ll perform on the Folk ‘N Bluegrass main stage Sunday, June 8, at noon and again on the Rendezvous Stage at 4 p.m. These guys just may be the hardest working band at any festival they play and can often be spotted wandering through the festival grounds performing “wandering minstrel” style.

The Pagosa Folk ‘N Bluegrass Festival will kick off with a free concert at the gazebo in Town Park on Friday, June 6, at 5 p.m. with music from The Biscuit Burners and The Belleville Outfit. All are welcome to attend.

After that, festivities take place on Reservoir Hill Park all day Saturday and Sunday, and include workshops, performances on three different stages and a free children’s program.

 Tickets to the festival are available downtown at Moonlight Books. Tickets and additional festival information are also available online at www.folkwest.com or by calling 731-5582.

Springs Theatre Company announces casts

The Springs Theatre Company is already in production for the Summer Starlight Series and is excited to announce the casts of the three shows, to be held at Harman Park.

This series will not only feature a new show each month from June through August, but will include a barbecue chuckwagon dinner and “Old West” entertainments as well.

First in the series is the melodrama, “Dora, the Beautiful Dishwasher, or The Heroine Who Cleaned Up”, directed by Betty Schwicker. This turn of the century style, one-act play will star Brynn Early, Maggie Greenwood, Janet Rainey, Rick Artis, Dale Schwicker, Michael DeWinter and Candy Flaming. “Dora” will take the stage Fridays and Saturdays, June 13, 14, 20 and 21.

In July, STC has the unique opportunity and honor of helping to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Fred Harman Art Museum and the 70th birthday of Red Ryder himself. The July show will be set as a 1940s radio variety hour directed by Rick Artis. Several acts, both musical and non-musical, will surround the highlight of the evening: a recreation of an actual Red Ryder radio play episode from 1949. Starring Larry Elginer, Roger Jensen, Ben Owens, Collin Oliver, Larry Baisdon, Brooke Hampton, Matthew Brunson, Tiffany Brunson, Angela Mas, D’Ann Artis, Candy Flaming and Randi Anderson, the 1940s Radio Variety Hour will play Fridays and Saturdays, July 18, 19, 25 and 26.

Concluding the series in August is a second melodrama, “Foiled by an Innocent Maid, or The Curse of the Iron Horse.” Michael DeWinter will direct this farce starring Joan Hageman, Lizz Baldwin, Sally Yates, Laura Stine, Ben Owens and Roger Jensen. Set amid a family “tragedy,” the hilarious story twists and turns its way to an unexpected ending. The performance dates for this show are Fridays and Saturdays, Aug. 8, 9, 15 and 16.

Tickets for each of the shows of the Summer Starlight Series will be on sale beginning May 1 at The Plaid Pony and online at www.SpringsTheatreCompany.org.

For more information on the Summer Starlight Series or for volunteer opportunities, contact Michael DeWinter at 731-5262 or Rick Artis at 731-8914. or you may visit the Web site.

Thursday, April 17, 2008

‘The Wiz’ is on the way

After a long spring break, the performers in “The Wiz”  are back at work, continuing to create the characters of the Land of Oz through music, dance and acting. 

The next couple of weeks will be full of frenzy, fun, foolishness and lots of green. The core of any musical is its chorus, for without them a musical is not a musical.  With more than 25 songs, our young actors have been quite busy, with each one of them cast in at least five numbers. 

Led by assistant director and dance captain Becca Stephens, they are:  Ryan Stahl, Dakota Ross, Sarah York, Kim Rivas, Laura Stine, Jessica Low, Kevan Calhoun, Rhain Harris, Emmi Greer, Kailee Kenyon, Ami Harbison, Lilian Hester, Ashley Brooks, Savannah Maez, Casey Crow, Paul Hoffman, Brittney Siler, Mackenzie Seacrist, Shane Madson, Andrea Fautheree, Cela White, Del Greer, Amber Ricker, Crissy Ferguson and Jared Burch.

 “The Wiz” opens April 29, with shows also on May 1, 2 and 3, all at 7 p.m. at the high school auditorium. 

“Ease On Down The Road” with us.

Thursday, April 17, 2008

Chuck Bob at the Movies

By Charles Streetman

The Demon Barber of Fleet Street

New to DVD is the Academy Award winning “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.”

Director Tim Burton’s (“Sleepy Hallow”) film adaptation of the classic Broadway musical tells a dark and violently tragic story of revenge.

The film opens to a vastly grim 19th century London as Sweeney Todd (Johnny Depp), formerly Benjamin Barker, arrives after suffering years of imprisonment for a crime he never committed.

Hoping for a joyful reunion with his family, Todd returns to his old barbershop only to find the remains of what was once his humble life. In the building below his old barbershop lives his former landlady, the petite Mrs. Lovett (Helena Bonham Carter) who seems eerily proud to admit that she sells the “worst meat pies in London.” Mrs. Lovett tells Sweeney of the tragedy that befell his family at the hands of the contemptible Judge Turpin (Alan Rickman), the very judge who wrongfully convicted him.

Overcome with rage, Todd vows revenge against Turpin. However, the only way he can see his vendetta met is to allow the judge’s guard to drop, so Todd reopens his barbershop in hopes of possibly luring him in for a shave, and a throatcut.

Time passes and the judge doesn’t take the bait. Soon Todd’s wrath is turned upon the unsuspecting citizens of London. Any person foolish enough to enter Todd’s shop alone is certain to never leave, as Todd ensures them the closest shave imaginable. Todd then disposes of the bodies through a trap door beneath his barber’s chair leading straight to Mrs. Lovett’s basement where she grinds them up as filling for her now famous meat pies.

With every flick of his razor against his costumer’s necks, Todd savors the dream of one day having Turpin in his barber’s chair, facing his most deserved fate. Todd’s obsession further clouds his reason until he is blind to everything around him and all that he can see is his vengeance, leading to an utterly fitting tragedy in the end.

Although based on a Broadway musical, “Sweeney Todd” is truly not for the faint of heart, as it is by far one of the most violent films of 2007. With every new victim who meets their fate at the blade of Todd’s razor, the blood sprays farther, wider, and thicker every time. The scenes inside Mrs. Lovett’s basement are especially disconcerting. This could very well be the goriest movie Tim Burton has ever made.

However, it’s not the violence that makes this one of the best films Burton has ever done; it’s his loyalty to the source. Burton’s known for having a lot of camp in his movies. Not this time. In “Sweeney Todd,” he keeps closely to the sinister atmosphere of the musical, making for a grim and very solemn thriller. This is not to say that “Sweeney Todd” is lacking in darkly humorous moments, but what grisly amusing scenes there are stay true to the nature of the story.

The music of “Sweeney Todd” is magnificent. Depp and Bonham Carter not only give terrific acting performances, but singing ones as well. As for the songs, while they don’t offer any catchy hooks, they propel much of the key dialogue of the film, with great rhythm. Viewers might not find themselves humming any numbers from the film, but they surely won’t be burdened listening to them again and again, especially one song in which Todd and Mrs. Lovett peer out a window at potential victims, and ddiscuss who would make the tastiest meat pies — from exalted priests to lowly drunkards.

“Sweeney Todd” earned three Oscar nominations: Best Actor (Depp), Best Costume Design, and, deservedly, took home Best Art Direction at this year’s ceremony. I believe it should have also received a nomination for Best Cinematography, seeing that the photography was every bit as impressive as the production design.

“Sweeney Todd” is a dark, violent and greatly entertaining thriller, and a haunting portrayal of how hatred and vengeance can consume a man’s soul. It is among the finest films Tim Burton has ever directed and surely one of the best movies of 2007.

As always, toss out the worthless single disc edition with its one and only “behind-the-scenes” featurette, and splurge on the two-disc collector’s edition to get all the great features. Among the bells and whistles include several making-of featurettes, a documentary on the real “Demon Barber,” a featurette on Stephen Sondheim’s Broadway musical, interviews with both Burton and Depp, a featurette on the numerous blood effects, and more.

Thursday, April 17, 2008

Photo courtesy FolkWest
The Belleville Outfit is one of two bands featured at this year’s Free Friday kickoff concert for the Pagosa Folk ’N Bluegrass Festival on June 6 at 5 p.m. at the gazebo in Town Park, and will play the Reservoir Hill Park main stage on Saturday, June 7 at 1:30 p.m.

Thursday, April 17, 2008

Hear the Belleville Outfit at Folk ’N Bluegrass Festival

 Based out of Louisiana’s finest music and arts city, but with hometowns littered across the United States, the Belleville Outfit serves up a truly unique mix of gypsy swing, big band jazz, and roots Americana/Bluegrass.

Both innovative in their combining of genres, and true to their musical roots, the Belleville Outfit, though young, has already solidified itself as a tour-de-force in the world of acoustic music.

 The Belleville Outfit is one of the two bands featured at this year’s Free Friday kickoff concert for the Pagosa Folk ’N Bluegrass Festival on June 6 at 5 p.m. at the gazebo in Town Park (along with The Biscuit Burners) and will play the Reservoir Hill Park main stage on Saturday, June 7 at 1:30 p.m.

Band members Rob Teter, Marshall Hood and Jeff Brown toured extensively with a group based out of South Carolina called the DesChamps Band, an all acoustic swing/bluegrass group that has shared stages with such prestigious acts as The Waybacks, Junior Brown, the Del McCoury Band, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, the Duhks, and Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder, as well as released two full length records.

Now, as the Belleville Outfit, with the additional talents of Phoebe Hunt on violin, Connor Forsyth on piano, and Jonathan Konya on the drums, the group is poised to introduce their inventive sound into the ears of anyone and everyone who will listen.

From Spartanburg, S.C., Rob Teter is a singer-songwriter, and original member of South Carolina’s DesChamps Band. Rob got his start playing southern rock a-la Lynard Skynard with fledgling Austin guitarist Marshall Hood. After squandering his youth playing the devil’s music, Rob picked up an acoustic guitar and began writing his own material. You can find Rob at various New Orleans spots, including but not limited to Banks St. Bar (trying not to get shot), Robert’s, the Maple Leaf, and of course, Miss Mae’s, or hanging around the Loyola Music School pretending to be a legitimate musician.

From Tulsa, Okla., Connor Forsyth is a stride player, and a gypsy beyond the shadow of doubt, often being compared to the ultra-fast sound of Oscar Peterson. He currently studies under New Orleans legendary pianist, Ellis Marsalis. You can find Corndog locked in his jail cell/brewery known as Biever Hall. That’s right folks, he brews his own beer, that is, until the powers that be told him he couldn’t do that anymore. It’s called Corndog Ale, and drops in stores world-wide in 2079.

From Norwalk, Conn., Drummer Jonathan Konya, is possibly the most versatile member of the group. He currently studies under New Orleans’ own Johnny Vidacovich, and is rapidly becoming one of the most talented young drummers to begin working in the city in the last year. You can usually find Jon at the far end of Adams Street, sitting on his porch in his underwear. Read about him more at his site www.jonathankonya.com.

Also from Spartanburg, S.C., Jeff Brown is the hardest working man in show biz today. Consistently holding it down as the Bass Assassin, Jeff holds down the lowest register of the Belleville Outfit. In his own words, “You’ll have to forgive me sir, I’m not so smart when it comes to thinkin’ about stuff.”

Yet another Spartanburger, Marshall Hood plays the big curly afro. Now living in Austin, Marshall is quickly becoming the premier big curly afro player in the city. Check him out with Warren Hood and the Hoodlums or The Phoebe Jeebies at Momo’s on Sunday nights.

And last, but most definitely not least, Phoebe Hunt, from Austin, Texas. Not only did she take home the Daniel Pearl Memorial Violin from Mark O’Connor’s fiddle camp in 2006, she plays in a band full of dudes, all younger than her. Quite a feat. Coming in at a whopping 22 years old, she’s the grandma, and tries to keep all the boys from killing themselves/each other.

 If you haven’t already guessed, this band is all about good music and fun. Don’t miss out on either of their upcoming performances at the Pagosa Folk ’N Bluegrass Festival.

Tickets to the event are on sale at Moonlight Books downtown. Tickets and additional information are available online at www.folkwest.com or by calling (877) 472-4672.

Thursday, April 17, 2008

Photos courtesy Music in the Mountains
Reserve the Date cards have been mailed for Music in the Mountains special benefit Friday, July 11, at the aquatic center at BootJack Ranch.  The evening will feature classical performances by pianist David Korevaar (left) and violinist Philippe Quint.  If you want to be added to the invitation list, contact Matt DeVooght at 264-1110 or pagosa@musicinthemountains.com.  Attendance is limited to 150 guests.  Cost is $175 per person, $125 of which is tax-deductible as a charitable donation.  Proceeds from the benefit will help support classical concerts, young people’s musical events and music scholarships in Pagosa Springs. 

Photo courtesy Music in the Mountains
Carl Topilow, founder of the Cleveland Pops Orchestra, will conduct the Music in the Mountains full orchestra in a concert entitled “Pops On Parade.”  This lively offering will take place at 7 p.m. Friday, July 25, at BootJack Ranch. Tickets for this event will sell quickly, so plan to get yours Monday morning April 7 starting at 10 a.m. at the Pagosa Chamber of Commerce. Topilow was incorrectly identified when this photo ran in a recent PREVIEW.

Thursday, April 17, 2008

Music in the Mountains has announced that Reserve the Date cards have been mailed for a special classical benefit evening Friday, July 11, at the aquatic center at BootJack Ranch hosted by David and Carol Brown.

If you want to be added to the invitation list, contact Matt DeVooght at 264-1110 or pagosa@musicinthemountains.com.

This opening event of the 2008 Music in the Mountains season in Pagosa Springs will feature performances by two world-famous performers — violinist Philippe Quint and pianist David Korevaar — whose program will include Beethoven and Brahms. Proceeds from the benefit will help support classical concerts, young people’s musical events and music scholarships in Pagosa Springs.

In addition to the musical entertainment, the evening will include sumptuous hors d’oeuvres and libations beginning at 6 p.m. — not to mention an elegant setting and panoramic view of the nearby mountains and valleys at the foot of Wolf Creek Pass. Dress is cocktail attire. Attendance is limited to 150 guests. Cost is $175 per person, $125 of which is tax-deductible as a charitable donation.

The evening’s two guest artists are well known in classical music circles. Quint, born in St. Petersburg, Russia, and now an American citizen, has built his reputation as a consummate violin soloist with audiences and critics alike. This Grammy Award nominee has been lauded for his “searingly poetic lyricism, technical assurance and restless energy.” Korevaar, a Juilliard graduate, currently balances an active performing career as a soloist and chamber musician with teaching at the University of Colorado at Boulder. He has been praised for his “wonderfully warm, pliant and spontaneous playing.” Both Quint and Korevaar have performed to rave reviews at major venues across the United States and around the world, and also recorded several classical music CDs.

Proceeds from this extraordinary evening will help Music in the Mountains continue to provide music scholarships to Archuleta County youth for Conservatory classes with professional musicians, bring musicians into Pagosa schools for hands-on workshops, send our children to a Taste of Music concert in Durango, and present spectacular concerts like the six scheduled under the tent at BootJack Ranch in Pagosa Springs this July and August.

The funds also will help host the annual free summer Family Festivo concert for “kids of all ages” in Town Park. This year’s free family concert on Wednesday, July 23, will feature a musical stage presentation based on the Brothers Grimm’s “The Town Musicians of Bremen” plus an instrument expo.

Planning and organizational work on the benefit is being contributed by a local volunteer committee co-chaired by Teresa Huft and Mary Hart which also includes Carol Brown, Mary Jo Coulehan, Carole Howard and Janis Moomaw. As well, Citizens Bank has made a generous contribution to the benefit, as they have done in past years.

“We are very grateful to the Browns and Citizens Bank for their generous support of this event, which provides a wonderful opening evening for our music festival,” Huft said. “Also, we depend on our benefit to raise needed funds for our concerts and youth activities in Pagosa, as our expenses continue to rise.

“The price of gas means our musician and instrument transportation costs have escalated, and the cost of our concert tent is high as well. Another example: Rental costs for chairs in the tent are up 50 percent. Ticket sales cover only about a third of our costs. The remaining funds are provided by our corporate sponsors and advertisers, individual donors and benefit attendees.

“That’s why we are so pleased to have such a spectacular venue and exciting classical program for our benefit this year. We hope this event will entice past supporters to join us and also bring new people into our Music in the Mountains family.”

Tickets for this benefit evening plus the six Music in the Mountains concerts under the tent at BootJack Ranch this summer went on sale April 7 at the Pagosa Chamber of Commerce.  For the first time ever in Pagosa, a special ticket costing $6 will be available to students 15 and under for the two classical chamber concerts. 

‘The Wiz’ comes to Pagosa Springs

The cast, orchestra and crew of “The Wiz,” a musical adapted from “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” by L. Frank Baum, will transform the Pagosa Springs High School auditorium with its music, vocals, dance and youthful spirit!

Production started in January, and energy and work has been building over the past few months, with an opening preview set for April 29 at 7 p.m. 

 Clara Barber portrays Dorothy, Jaret Heber offers us his Scarecrow, the Tin Man is acted by Jeff Reardon, and our own loveable Lion will be played by Paul Hoffman.  Jared Burch plays the title role of the Wiz, with Addaperle (a good witch) played by Amber Ricker, Glinda (another good witch) played by Sarah York, and the evil witch, Evillene, played by Crissy Ferguson.

 The classic couple, Auntie Em and Uncle Henry, are portrayed by Kim Rivas and Dakota Ross, while Jessica Low, Kevan Calhoun, Becca Stephens and Ryan Stahl act as Gatekeeper, Lord High Underling, Soldier Messenger and Winged Monkey, respectively.

 “The Wiz” plays April 29 and May 1-3 at 7 p.m. at the high school auditorium. Come on and “Ease On Down the Road” with us!

Thursday, April 10, 2008

Photo courtesy Crista Munro
No strangers to the Pagosa Springs music stage, The Badly Bent will make their FolkWest debut at this year’s Pagosa Folk ‘N Bluegrass Festival. The festival takes place June 7 and 8 on Reservoir Hill, with a free concert June 6 in Town Park.

Thursday, April 10, 2008

The Badly Bent at Folk n’ Bluegrass Festival

No strangers to the Pagosa Springs music stage, The Badly Bent will make their FolkWest debut at this year’s Pagosa Folk ‘N Bluegrass Festival. The festival takes place on June 7 and 8 on Reservoir Hill, with a free concert kicking off festivities on Friday, June 6 at 5 p.m. at the gazebo in Town Park. 

 The Badly Bent has been entrenched in the regional bluegrass music scene since 1997. Based in Durango, the band has proven its musicianship by winning prestigious music competitions and receiving accolades from many of the group’s peers in the bluegrass industry.  These boys are not newcomers to the bluegrass scene or performing in front of large audiences.

 The Badly Bent does not bill itself as one of the new pseudo-bluegrass jam bands.  Although their musical prowess allows them to explore the edges of traditional music, the listener will find that the music never strays far from the roots established by the fathers of the genre.  Their love for the genuine bluegrass sound is evident every time they take the stage.

 The Badly Bent started in Durango with a group of well-known musicians gathering to become the top of the bluegrass scene.  The configuration of the band evolved to its current form in 2003. Sharing lead vocals are Pat Dressen (guitar) and Mark Epstein (banjo).  Harmony vocals by Robb Brophy (mandolin) and Jimmy Largent (bass), combined with the sought-after sound of Bill Adams (dobro), round out the ensemble of The Badly Bent.

 Since releasing their first CD in February of 2005, The Badly Bent have gone on to achieve a variety of accomplishments.  In June 2005, The Badly Bent took first place in the coveted Telluride Bluegrass Festival’s band competition.  In November 2005, the band was featured on the popular bluegrassradio.org Internet channel as the band of the month.  In October 2006, the band’s CD was nominated for three awards by the Just Plain Folks music society.

 The band relies on its driving instrumentation and accurate vocals to produce the unique Badly Bent sound.  Their self-titled CD reflects how the band has congealed into a tight, driving sound.  Their first CD was produced by Grammy award winner Sally Van Meter, mixed by Jim Tuttle, and mastered by Grammy award winner Dave Glasser at Airshow Mastering.  Several songs on the CD were written by band members. The project contains some well-known bluegrass standards as well as some old traditional songs.  In the words of Tim Stafford of Blue Highway, the album demonstrates “spirited picking and vocals that manage to capture both the fun of the front porch and the intricacies of modern bluegrass.”

 The Badly Bent released its second CD, “Olive or Twist,” in April of 2007. Also produced by Sally Van Meter, this CD also has a mix of songs from a variety of sources.  They will perform multiple times at Folk ‘N Bluegrass: Friday, June 6 at 9 p.m. on the Late Night Stage; Saturday, June 7 at 11 a.m. on the Main Stage; and Sunday, June 8 at noon on the Rendezvous Acoustic Stage.

 The festival will feature three stages and a workshop tent, plus campground picking, free kids activities and free admission for kids 12 and under with an accompanying adult. Tickets to Folk ‘N Bluegrass are currently available at Moonlight Books downtown. Tickets and additional information can also be found on the web site, www.folkwest.com or by calling 1-877-472-4672.

Thursday, April 10, 2008

Jesse Colin Young will open for The Beach Boys

Jesse Colin Young, the critically acclaimed solo artist and lead singer of the legendary classic rock band The Youngbloods, has been added to the lineup for the June 4 early summer music festival featuring The Beach Boys. Tickets for the festival presented by Fort Lewis College and Coors Light are now on sale.

On June 4, gates to Ray Dennison Memorial Field at Fort Lewis College will open at 4 p.m. with local rocker Ralph Dinosaur and his band opening the show at 5.

Jesse Colin Young will take the stage at 6:15, followed by The Beach Boys at 8. “The Morehart Chevrolet Beach Party,” with live music, food and a classic car show begins in the parking lot at noon.

Jesse Colin Young and The Youngbloods took the nation by storm with the release of the single “Get Together,” which became a worldwide Top 10 hit and a prominent soundtrack for peace. After seven group releases, Young began production of more than 15 acclaimed solo albums including “Song for Juli,” “Light Shine,” “Songbird” and a live album with his touring band entitled “On the Road.”

General admission tickets to the festival are $45, with reserved seats available for $100, $80 and $60. General admission tickets are limited to 20 per order, with reserved seat ticket sales limited to four All can be purchased through the Community Concert Hall Ticket offices in Durango and Bayfield, and online at www.durangoconcerts.com.

Inside the stadium, the stage, specially constructed and donated by Skyridge developer Gene Fisher, will be located on the east side of the field, facing the bleachers, with reserved seating immediately in front of the stage. Festival chairs will be allowed on the grass for those holding general admission tickets.

“We will also have a VIP tent for our sponsors and those interested in paying $50 for the privilege to be included,” said Gary Penington, FLC event specialist, reminding that as a not-for-profit institution of higher education, FLC is seeking to cover costs and raise funds for scholarships, while providing an exciting opportunity for the community. “There will also be the Coors Light tent inside the stadium, and food will be available in the ‘beach party’ area throughout the night.”

Limited reserved parking will be offered adjacent to the stadium for $15 per car, and free parking shuttles will run across campus throughout the afternoon and evening. Parking, access and seating for those with disabilities is also planned.