Jazz and Poetry

Mother’s Day Weekend artful adventures

2008-05-08T08:00:00.002-04:00

Both my mom and step-mom live out in the Seattle area, so I won’t be spending this Mother’s Day with either of them. However, whenever they visit we like to go on little “art adventures” around the area.

We could start off on Friday evening by taking a drive up Hwy 176 toward Saluda (call 828-749-4400 if you need directions) and visiting the Gallery at Bear Creek. There will be a live concert on the porch at 6 p.m. from the Hendersonville Christian rock band Humbled playing to accompany our tour of intriguing outsider art. I may just have to go up there myself and look through the collection of beautiful greeting cards that can be sent quickly across the country to let them know I thought of them.

My step-mom is a quilter and has dabbled in the various forms of crafts you can find at the Tryon Arts & Crafts new Heritage Gallery. After visiting the lovely opening reception for the new space I was quick to call her and try to entice her into another visit just to see what an amazing transformation has taken place in the building that was once the middle school. If she lived here, I know that the perfect gift would be to sign her up for a class in something she hasn’t tried yet, like lapidary or throwing pottery. Maybe she’d even start weaving again if she could join the ladies at the TAC in their lovely weaving room and didn’t have to worry about vacuuming around a loom in her living room.

My real mom is a horse woman, so we’d have to make an “art stop” at the Red Clover Gallery for their current exhibit “Horse Course: Celebrating the Equestrian Life.” This beautiful collection of work celebrates the majesty of the horse with various perspectives and styles from the Southern Exposure artists collective. I might make it an early mother’s day surprise and visit on Saturday so we could then stop for a bite to eat at the Hare and the Hound from 3-5 p.m. and listen to the lovely Fred Whiskin Trio. Mom was a trumpet player in high school and still recalls playing several of these jazz standards back in her days with the Stardusters dance band in Kansas. I might even get a few more stories out of her about my great grandmother playing the dances in Kansas City with her fingers flying across the keyboard.
Next stop would be the Upstairs Artspace to introduce her to more of the beauty of the Polk County landscape with their current exhibit “Generations.”
Here we’d have a chance not only to look at the work of local artistic families (Margaret Brown Davis, Cynthia Davis and their grandfather J. S. Brown as well as Michael McCarthy and his grandfather J. Stephen Ward), who have been capturing the beauty of the area for years, but also to visit and let her tell me stories of the artists in our own family. I’ve seen a few of my Great Aunt Hazel’s paintings and stone sculptures, but she was always considered a “little bit different” in a family of farmers and teachers.

We could grab ourselves a coffee from the Gallery Coffeehouse so I could point out the work of Ray Pague, Mike Locke, and Niece who she met on her last visit when Cantankerous was playing at the Coffeehouse. I don’t think Niece had even started sharing her beautiful colored pencil work at that time, and Ray and Mike keep bringing in new and wonderful paintings.

A trip through Tryon wouldn’t be complete without a visit to her favorite gallery Simply Irresistible up on the hill. My step-dad enjoys checking out Bill Crowell’s work in the forge while mom and I wander through the amazing collection of work from artists and craftspeople of the Carolinas. Maybe one of these days I’ll finally save up enough money to ship her one of the beautiful tile tables she adores made by Bill and Kathleen.

On her last visit, Mom was enchanted by Frances McCain and would be thrilled to have tickets to see the upcoming show directed by her, You Can’t Take it With You, which will be playing at the Tryon Fine Arts Center next weekend May 15-18 (Call the box office for tickets at 828-859-2466). I know her love for color would also have us visiting MONA! at the Cottages in Hendersonville for the opening reception next Saturday May 17 with Dawn Ashby and her beautiful pottery. She loves the Flat Rock area too, so that would give us an excuse to stop by Little Rainbow Row and check out the festive Animals, Animals, Animals exhibit at the Hand in Hand Gallery.

Instead, I’m just going to have to make a visit to the West Coast and see what my moms have to show me out there this spring. Dad’s already booked the ticket to ensure I’ll make it next weekend.

Meredith King weaves traditional crafts into her education

2008-05-07T08:00:00.002-04:00

I visited Tryon Arts & Crafts and was overwhelmed by the vast change in the building. It no longer has the sterile feeling of a school, but offers a warm invitation to explore the traditional crafts of the foothills region. Surrounding the main gallery space are spacious and well equipped classrooms for weaving, pottery, lapidary, and of course the new forge is located just outside the building.

I arrived during the Tuesday weaving class and was introduced thirteen year old Meredith King, the youngest member of the class, just as she was setting up her loom to start a new project. So far, all that was on the loom was a precise set of black yarn running from back to front.

What are you making here?

I’m working on scarves. The black is half acrylic and half nylon yarn for the warp.

She then pulls out a fluffy pile of variegated pastel blue.

This fringe-y polyester is for the weft. I’ve already done one with the yellow-orange fringe. It’s not necessarily something you can wash, but they make beautiful gifts and I just tell people to “keep it clean.”

How long have you been taking class here?

I started the weaving in January, and have been taking pottery since October.

How did you get involved?

I’m homeschooled and we always come to Harmon Field for soccer. One day we stopped in to look around at the new center and found out about the classes and I signed up.

So is this part of your school schedule?

On Monday I double up and fit two school days worth of lessons into one so I can come here during the day on Tuesday. It’s really great. My Tuesday tradition with Mom is to stop for coffee in Columbus on our way from Landrum and then she brings me here for the class from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. On Wednesday evening I take the pottery class with my grandmother.

Are there other weavers in your family?

There’s not really a family connection to weaving. My mom gardens and cooks, but I do all sorts of art and pretty much am the only arts and crafts one in the family. I’m always working on making something.

What do you do with your projects?

These are presents.

What else have you made?

I made baby blankets for twin cousins. I recently finished six placemats, wove a piece to make into a tote bag, and have tried two kinds of scarves.

That seems like a lot, how long does it take to create these?

Setting up the loom usually takes the longest and the weaving goes quick. These scarves are a plain weave since the yarn is so showy. The only complicated part of the tote bag was sewing it together. The placemats had a diamond pattern made from threading and the way you weave, like the wedding pillows you see Sylvia working on next to us.

How is the class run?

Sue and Kris are in charge of the class, but it’s more like a weaving club. They don’t direct us in terms of projects, but you get help on whatever you are working on while you’re here.

How long does it take you to finish a project?

Right now I’m setting up for three scarves, so I set up the warp eight yards long and it will take me about two and a half classes to finish all three. I might come back on another day if I want to finish them sooner.

Did you ever try weaving before?

I had done some weaving with a little peg loom and a table loom at home.

So are you wishing you had one of these full sized looms at home now?

Not really, I think I either would get sick of it, or never stop if I was at home. I can always come here on another day if I want to weave more during the week.

What will be your next project?

I have three baby blankets to make for a cousin and two family friends. I like making things for people who need them.

What are you working on in the pottery class?

We’re doing some hand building and throwing on the wheel. In pottery you finish something every week.

What are some of your favorites you’ve finished?

There’s a peace sign tray and some bigger pots thrown with three and a half pounds of clay that are pretty cool. I also used clay and wove a trivet to combine projects from both classes.

What would you say to someone who was considering taking a class?

It’s a really good idea! The instructors are really great and you get all the resources you need.

As I leave Meredith to get her scarves started, I visit with her neighbor Sylvia Chiodini about how she is creating the pattern for her pillows with only one color of thread. Her project is also intended as a gift. She moves swiftly with the pattern written out in front of her so that she can track the progress. I can see an example of how the treadles are set up at the next loom where Bonnie is setting up a new project.

Bonnie: The treadling changes with different projects, some are more complicated. When you step on a pedal it determines which harness or harnesses are raised. The outside pedals are for “tabbing” and then the others are set up depending on the pattern.

Liz Wyckoff is working on a standard twill pattern at the next loom and shows me how this works. The pattern is created by alternating the harnesses that are raised and the pattern is basic enough she doesn’t need it written out. She shows me how this differs from the complex pattern for the treadles that Sylvia has set up on her loom.

Sylvia: I have a loom at home, but come here for companionship. Here there are women of all ages with the same interests working on fiber arts with different levels of experience.

As I look back at Meredith, she is now happily engaged in creating her festive fluffy scarf that is quickly taking shape under her hands. To find out more about the opportunities for community crafting, stop by Tryon Arts & Crafts at 373 Harmon Field Road, call 859-8323, or visit tryonartsandcrafts.org.

Campbell, Lee and Runion bring Fire in the Belly to Soulshine

2008-05-01T08:01:00.005-04:00

This Sunday, thanks to the Kirby Endowment Fund and the Congregational Church, there will be a free concert “for the people” that will range in style from Old Time Gospel to Jazz/Fusion Rock. They’re even providing childcare and a reception after the concert.

While most of the line up seems to be based on traditional music styles familiar to the church community, the “jazz fusion” caught my attention because it was something a bit new and different. I first encountered Ronnie Campbell and Frank Lee last year and enlisted them to use their intriguing ambient sound to help score Chris Riddle’s 48 hour Film last year that was a romance set in a rug factory. But recording a film score is quite a bit different that performing a live concert.
I sat down with Ronnie Campbell and Josh Runion at one of their rehearsals to get a little more background on how they came to be involved with this event.

How long have you been playing together as a trio?
Josh: A year or two, but Ronnie and Frank have been playing together for ten years or more.

What are the influences for this band’s sound?
Josh: Percussionist Trio Gurto, Allen Holdsworth, King Crimson for the Chapman Stick.
Ronnie: Bill Frisell and a wide range of jazz, middle-eastern, and heavy metal music. Oh, and Frank loves Berl Ives.

Josh, how would you describe the Chapman Stick?
Josh: It’s a ten string touch instrument that allows you to play bass lines and guitar lines simultaneously. It has no body, just a fret board and I also plug into a Trigger Synthesizer. It’s like having three instruments in one.

When did you start playing it?
Josh: In 1999. You have to custom order it from Tony Levin. So, I called him at Chapman and got on the waiting list and have been loving it ever since. I also have been playing it for the past year and a half for a band in Greenville called fifteenfifteen. Ronnie sometimes will play guitar with us as well.

How did you learn to play it?
Josh: It came with a book and I taught myself. It’s like playing keyboard, very sensitive. I was a bass player and stick replaced the bass. I started teaching myself bass in 1994. It didn’t come with a book, I had to go to another store for that.

Ronnie how long have you been playing guitar?
Ronnie: Since I was twelve. I took lessons from Josh’s great aunt Ms. Johnson and my brother took piano at the same time. My brother and I played for Christmas and other “Mom” inspired events.

What was your first band?
Ronnie: Steve Smart and I called ourselves Campbell & Smart and played covers of Seals & Crofts, Gordon Lightfoot, Crosby Stills Nash & Young, and Cabbage Head. We played for the local beauty pageants and stuff.

Have you always played locally?
Ronnie: In 1986 I played in San Francisco with a band called National Debt. I played in New York for a six month orchestra gig four nights a week for the play Teasers produced by Howard Solomon. He’s the fellow who produced folks like Harry Nilsson, George Carlan, Lily Tomlin, Lennie Bruce and started the Café au Go Go. This was a show about a couple of male hairdressers who fall in love with the same girl. I nearly took a job in Atlantic City, but my grandfather had a stroke and my brother was getting married. At that point in time family seemed more important than dressing up in a leisure suit and learning dance moves to put on a show up north. So, I came home.

I’ve also played with Fast Forward and Ten Pound Test. From 1996 to 1997 I worked with Lee Holroy as well as working with Mike Brunski, and Chris Stack for various projects over the years.

How did you meet up with Frank?
Ronnie: We met at The Bears concert (Adrian Belue’s band) and Deborah Fitzgerald introduced us. We kept meeting at shows and I asked him to come and play with Mike Brunski. We called that band Cold Sweat and played for several parties and such. Frank hated that name too. He also introduced me to Tom Condor and who had a band called Condor. They had made a record and then lost their guitar player. So we played together in that band and then another of Tom’s bands called Political Asylum that was rebellious political poetic rock.

Eventually Frank and I started heading toward more experimental music. I play electric guitar with a Roland synthesizer and guitar treatments while Frank plays drums and we have recorded over 50 CDs worth of music just for personal interest.

How did Josh get involved?
Ronnie: Frank and I played for several parties, and Josh being an old family friend showed up at one and sat in with us. That was the beginning of Fire in the Belly.

How did you get involved in the Soulshine concert?
Ronnie: Lance called me. I played a Willie Porter song that he sang “Unconditional Love” for mother’s day last year at the church. This event was coming and so he called and asked if I would do it. I told him about Frank and Josh and the experimental mindscape music and he said “sure.” Basically we were invited and we accepted. Benefits and stuff like this are good ways to share what we’ve been working on mostly for ourselves.

Is there anything that people should know before hearing your music?
Ronnie: It’s best to show up with an open ear and open mind. We’re writing everything for this show so it will be audience friendly. We’re mixing composition and improvisation for the show inspired from this nice little mountain retreat with a creek, frogs, and crickets for inspiration.

The Soulshine concert starts at 2 p.m. this Sunday at the Congregational Church located at 210 Melrose Avenue in Tryon. The concert features the fine music of talented local musicians Straight From the Heart, The Willows, Fire in the Belly, and Crosscut.

Music for the community fills the air while artists ‘Walk and Talk’

2008-05-01T08:00:00.005-04:00

Spring has more than sprung and there is definitely more wonderful music happening this weekend in the Polk County area than any one person could see and hear. The good news is that whatever your musical taste, there is sure to be something to please your ears. Don’t forget to check the calendar section for additional events happening this weekend.

I’ve already made the commitment to the Community Chorus on Friday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. The Spring Concert will be performed at the Polk County High School Auditorium and feature a variety of Traditional, Broadway, and Patriotic music under the direction of Crys Armbrust in addition to original gospel music from guest artist Jennifer Prince. Funds from the ticket sales for the concert benefit the Rotary Scholarship Fund. Tickets are available in advance from Rotary of Tryon members, the Bookshelf, Vines and Stuff, and the Tryon Daily Bulletin.

Saturday I’m feeling the pulled too many different directions. Chris Tinkler, director of the Tryon Youth Center production “Cats” this summer, opens the production “Into the Woods” with his students at Oakbrook Preparatory School in Spartanburg. Friends are also calling me up to the Hendersonville High School Auditorium for the “Happy Days are Here Again” concert featuring former Tryon resident Reese Gray on Duke Ellington’s Black and Tan Fantasy. However, there is plenty of great music to choose from without leaving the county. In fact, in addition to your regularly scheduled venues there are two headline worthy concerts happening in Columbus and Saluda.

Frank and Amy Beeson invite you to help them kick off the second annual summer series at Veteran’s Park in Columbus. On Saturday May 3 at 8 p.m., the park will start rocking with the blues jam sweetness of Geoff Achison & The Soul Diggers. This concert series is sponsored by the Columbus Merchant’s Association and the Town of Columbus. Donations to help fund the series will be accepted.

Country music award winning artists, Shenandoah, will be appearing at Saluda Mountain Jamboree on Saturday, May 3 at 8 p.m. This CMA, ACM and Grammy award winning group has lead the charts with such hit singles as "Two Dozen Roses," "Church on Cumberland Road," "Next to You, Next to Me," "Ghost in This House," and "Sunday in the South." Local favorites Legacy of the Carolinas will open. Call 828-749-3676 or email lhwhitaker@charter.net to reserve your tickets now.

Sunday afternoon offers up a special free community concert Soulshine providing a “serving of music, thoughts, and verse to feed the soul.” This lively afternoon of music will be held at the Congregational Church at 210 Melrose Avenue Tryon at 2 p.m. The concert is funded by the Kirby Endowment Foundation and features the fine music of talented local musicians. Pat and Don McMahon bring acoustic music Straight From the Heart. The Gill sisters Lily Brown and Mary Morton will share favorite contemporary Christian and world music as The Willows. Ronnie Campbell, Frank Lee, and Josh Runion have carefully crafted a set of instrumental jazz/rock fusion entitled Fire in the Belly. The concert will finish with the bluegrass gospel “feel good” music of Crosscut. Childcare for the concert is provided and there will be a reception following the concert.

Too much music? Need some art for your eyes as well as your ears? The Upstairs Artspace offers the "Walk & Talk" tour of art on Sunday, May 4 at 2 p.m. for the new exhibit "Generations." Participating artists Margaret Brown Davis, Cynthia Davis and Michael McCarthy will lead guests on a tour of the exhibit and discuss their work.

Perhaps after refreshing your eyes you’ll be ready to kick back at Harmon Field to the sweet and familiar music of Dana Bergman. The first Music in the Field, sponsored by Friends of Harmon Field, will be held Sunday, May 4, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Harmon Field Open-air Gym.

Monday May 5 take an art adventure with your child to the Tryon Fine Arts Center. At 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. TFAC is proud to present Fish Face an ArtsPower musical. This lively production is based on the book of the same name and part of the popular Kids of the Polk Street School series by two-time Newbury Honor author Patricia Peilly Giff. Call 828-859-8322 for more information.

Armbrust directs music with community appeal

2008-04-25T08:00:00.002-04:00

Crys Armbrust while often seen about town is rarely idle. He is constantly planning and working to bring life, vitality, and most of all, music to the people of the Tryon community. I was first introduced to him as the driving force behind the Nina Simone Project and organist, but it wasn't until he started directing the Community Chorus that I finally got to see his work in action. With plenty of returning chorus members, as well as a healthy balance of new singers he is able to build on the sound that is already there and shape the music into something truly special. We met briefly for coffee one morning so I could find out more about the music and his vision for the upcoming Community Chorus Spring Concert on May 2 and 4 at the Polk County High School auditorium.

First of all, what all do you do?

Currently I am working on the Nina Simone Project, directing the Community Chorus, acting as Project Manager for Tryon's North Carolin Small Town Main Street Project, amongst other private endeavors including a bit of composing. Previously I directed The Choristers of the Episcopal Church of the Holy Cross. I Played organ there for five years and my father played the eleven years before. Prior to that, I taught 17th & 19th century British Literature at the USC Columbia campus. In addition, I was the founding assistant master of USC's residential program at Preston College a residential arts and humanities program for eight years.

So what led you to direct?

I have been deeply immersed in music in this area for past decade. I am interested in all music, and the community chorus is a perfect venue for performing a variety.

How did you make the selections for this concert?

I started with the general categories of music, Traditional, Broadway, and Patriotic. Having defined those categories, I came up with possible selections and the final selections are some of my favorites. Most of the pieces on the program have wide audience appeal.

Which one do you hold the highest in regard?

"The Testament of Freedom." Randall Thompson's score is beautiful. I love the selection of texts from Thomas Jefferson's writings.

When did you first encounter it?

I first performed it about 25 years ago in a male chorus arrangement. I formerly sang with the Palmetto Master Singers 100 voice male chorus under the direction of Arpad Daraz a student of Zoltan Kodaly.

Which selection has most audience appeal?

I think the selection that might have the most emotional impact might be Tom Fettke's "The Majesty and Glory of Thy Name."

Except for the Broadway selections, much of the music is new to me. Is there a regional connection?

My own pieces of course. Our featured artist Jennifer Prince certainly has been influenced by her regional gospel roots. Otherwise, I attempted to incorporate some of the standard choral works in the repertory. I was guided in the selection as well to choose standard works that choristers might not have other opportunities to perform unless they are part of a large ensemble. The Randall Thompson works come to mind. It would be a stretch for a small parish choir to do the Alleluia or the Testament.

Was the chorus involved in selections?

Having been engaged with the board before hand, I was pretty much given a blank slate for the selection. The real value of a choral leader is his or her knowledge of stylistic periods and the range of works composed during those periods. Part of the selection of course is attempting to appeal to the broadest possible range of listeners. First and foremost the Community Chorus exists to generate money for the Rotary scholarships. To wit the chorus desires to sell as many tickets as possible. Every seat should be filled.

What is the age range of the selections?

This particular program presents music from the eighteenth century to 2008. Each selection in this program is a gem in and of itself.

Which are the oldest?

The part song "Magdalene Cease from Sobs and Sighing." Certainly the tune "Poor Wayfaring Stranger" influenced "Stranger Where is Your Home." "Black is the Color of my True Love's Hair" will be performed as a solo by Wanda May.

The most recently composed piece is Jennifer Prince's "This is the Day that the Lord Has Made."

What about the pieces you composed?

The premier of "Stranger Where is Your Home" was at the Washington National Cathedral and subsequently performed at Canterbury Cathedral with Holy Cross Choristers. Both pieces were written for local individuals and members of the chorus. "Stranger Where is Your Home" was written for Diane Lee and "Rise Up My Love" for Gloria Underwood.

You mentioned some orchestration in development for the concert.

Gerald Siddons has done re-orchestrations for brass quintet, flute and extended percussion. That will be for the finale. Pam McNeil will be accompanying on piano. There may be some flute from Barbara Tilly on few pieces as well as an appearance from the brass and percussion on "Battle Hymn of the Public." There are also several a cappella pieces.

What do you enjoy about directing?

The wonderful thing about singing is that it builds communities in non-threatening ways. It can create atmosphere in a moment. There's a quote from Sidney Lanier, "Music is love in search of a word." Music is a creative act and even a re-creative act.

Every time we sing a song, we remake that song. What is on the page is a flat indicative series of symbols and you'll never replicate a live performance. It's different every time.

So if someone came both Friday and Sunday they'd see two different shows?

Absolutely! I had the pleasure of singing with Robert Shaw (founder and director of world renowned Robert Shaw Choral from Atlanta, GA) several times. While at this point I could not tell you the program we sang, words of inspiration prior have lingered to this point since 1985. He told us, "Someone tonight will hear a piece for the first time, and someone tonight will hear a piece for the last time. Give those individuals your best performance."

Anything we should know about your musical self?

I have an over-arching sense that all things are possible and long as one has a plan and back up plan.

Local art in full bloom at Tryon Arts & Crafts and Upstairs Artspace

2008-04-24T08:00:00.000-04:00

After last weekend’s very wet Steeplechase, be sure to enjoy the sun while it lasts this week and then step inside to enjoy the new exhibits opening their blooms.
Tonight artists and arts lovers of all types are welcome to join us for the Artist’s Porch at the Historic Melrose Inn from 6:30 – 9 p.m. Enjoy the warmer weather and sunset from the spacious deck of the inn while listening to the variety of music, poetry, stories, jokes, tall tales, and other such dialogue of the various assembled guests. Jay serves up a delightfully delicious buffet at a bargain price to keep everyone happy and yapping well into the evening.

If you’re looking for a quiet table for two, enjoy the poetic folk roots music of Dana & Sue Robinson over dinner at the Purple Onion at 7 p.m. Thursday or slip in for some boogie woogie, blues, and jazzy piano on Friday with Fred Whiskin.

On Saturday don’t mind the weather if it tries to rain on your parade. It’s the perfect excuse to skip the yard work and head over to Harmon Field for the Tryon Arts & Crafts Open House celebrating their new Heritage Gallery from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. I slipped by early this week and found the transformation of the space breathtaking. It may still look like the same old Tryon Middle School on the outside, but inside they have transformed the space into something special to show off the fine crafts work of our local artists. New lighting, new shelves, new cabinets and a drastic paint job have created an environment that is comfortable and inviting. I was also intrigued by the quality and variety of work already on display from the exquisite wood carvings of local artist Luke Lichterman to an intricately woven shawl made by a student. Forge instructors Bill Crowell and Walter Myers have contributed some artfully clever “experiments” in metal sculpture created while teaching their classes. Enjoy the opportunity to celebrate with them a gallery space that will not only draw visitors from outside the Tryon area, but also continues to provide quality resources for local artists to expand and develop their craft through the traditional arts.

Make it a full day of art and head over to downtown Tryon after the open house to enjoy two receptions for local artists. Celebrating 30 years of fine gallery exhibitions, the Upstairs ArtSpace invites the community to join them for an opening reception from 5 – 8 p.m. Saturday evening. The new show "Generations" features the landscape paintings of Tryon artist colony member J. S. Brown, his granddaughter Margaret Brown Davis, and great granddaughter Cynthia Davis. The family has a rich history in the arts. While Margaret’s work is part of the Williamsburg American Art Collection in Virginia, she has devoted her time to the local artistic community including serving as Vice President on the board of Tryon Painters & Sculptors. Cynthia received a degree from Salem College in studio art and art therapy and her work reflects her artistic desire to get outside and capture the light and mood of a day. Also showing will be Michael McCarthy of Tryon and his grandfather J. Stephen Ward. Mr. Ward was a West Coast artist who captured the beauty of the Pacific coast. Michael has chosen western North Carolina landscapes as well as the human figure as his feature subjects.

When your finished with the wine and hors d’oeuvres at Upstairs, stroll on over for some coffee and dessert at the reception for the new gallery at Grace Foothills Church from 6 – 8 p.m. They will be featuring the work of Savannah School of Design graduates and local artists Robert Conn and Page Davis. Robert will share with Tryon his beautiful abstract wood and stone sculpture while Page will offer a preview of paintings for her new show at the Upstairs in June.

Finish off your night in style and burn off that caffeine and sugar by swinging up to the Saluda Mountain Jamboree to dance the night away with the band Silver Travis from 8 – 11 p.m. Or, if reception appetizers have left you hungry for something more, sit down for a bite at the Purple Onion in Saluda and enjoy the high energy “Americana with a twist” music from Alpharetta, Georgia musicians High Cotton.

Bergman brightens lives with music for the elderly and disabled

2008-04-18T08:01:00.000-04:00

I caught Dana Bergman in action at the end of last month performing during the dinner hour at Laurel Woods in Columbus. Dana, with a smile, a guitar, and his Scottish terrier Barney, comes to entertain the diners there once a month.

My first impression was that he appeared to bring a cheerful burst of energy to an otherwise quiet dinner. He was singing an original tune “Sweet Cherry Pie” about savoring family moments. Then he launched into a series of songs familiar to me from my own childhood like “Country Roads,” and “You are my Sunshine.” I began to visit a bit with the women at my table who also remembered these songs. It gave us strangers something to talk about.

Then, just as we were running out of things to say, Dana launched into a sing-a-long with “Home on the Range” that pulled everyone’s attention back to the stage. Rousing songs like “Blue Suede Shoes” started toes tapping and hands clapping. By the time he wrapped up the show with “God Bless America” the dinner plates had been removed yet most of the diners remained to get a chance to say hello to Barney or simply thank Dana for sharing his music today.

I had time for a quick picture and then met up with Dana over coffee on another day away from his fans. We started off discussing his next upcoming performances which included Inman’s arrival at Harmon Field and the Meeting House Senior Center in Tryon on Tuesday April 15 at 10 a.m.

Do you have a regular performance schedule?
I play at the Inn on Church in Hendersonville. They do Sunday Brunch and I play out on the front porch with dinner music. It’s the same show I’d do at Silver’s Edge, Drake House, or Stone Soup. Then I have a regular rotation with Autumn Woods in Saluda and Laurel Woods in Columbus.

You mentioned to me before that you moved here because of your Dad?
In July 2006 he became very ill. I provided a home for him here until he was hit with pneumonia in August 2007 passed away in November at 85. My mom lives here so I’m close to her.

Tell me how you got started performing at the nursing facilities.
It started in Connecticut when I was travelling with guitar on my motorcycle. Frequently I passed a veteran’s home out in the country and the fellows out front would wave. One day on a whim I decided to stop and see if they’d like to hear guitar. Most of these gentlemen were Korean and Vietnam veterans and many were disabled. They enjoyed my music so much I went back a week later and did it again. I met the activities director and she asked if I would play twice a month for a small stipend. She referred me to sister companies and soon I developed an interest in bringing my talents to those who were less fortunate. Over a year I developed about a 27 nursing home rotation all over the state.

When did you start bringing Barney along?
Barney is seven now, I started taking him out right away for the bonding and social interaction. He’s very docile and lets people hold him and love on him.

Who are some of your musical influences?
For performance style and vocals, I look to Frank Sinatra. He gives a wonderful presentation. My favorite music includes the Beatles, particularly George Harrison, Simon and Garfunkle, and Cat Stevens. George Harrison is very sensitive, deeply spiritual and compassionate. I was hooked on the Beatles by three years of age. I listened to Meet the Beatles over and over and used to pretend to play guitar with the album. Anytime I’m down or need a pick me up, I’ll listen to those old songs.

I never pursued superstardom. My goals and aspirations are to bring comfort to others. The best way I can do that is through music especially for disabled veterans and the elderly. I’m proud of my original songs. I have over a dozen, some of which could work commercially given the opportunity.

When did you write your first song?
I wrote my very first song in 1979, it was called “Three Hundred Souls” and was a tribute to passengers and crew of American Airlines DC10 flight 182 that crashed into Chicago. The captain of that flight was a close personal friend of my parents and I had known him since I was a child. My dad was flying a DC 10 at the time and I could tell he was very upset by the crash.

Later on during my married years raising step-kids I started writing more. A lot of the songs romanticized the family environment. I was inspired to write “You,” which I sang for my wife at our wedding.

I’ve written two songs in the past couple of months. One is a very sad song reflecting on integrity vs. despair. Erikson identified various stages of life and labels the last stage as “Integrity vs. Despair.” The song is called “Contrails from a Plane” and I’d like to record it even though it may be too sad to perform for the elderly.

“Key West or Curtains for Me” is about a New York stockbroker with economic turmoil who wants to run away to Key West, but is stuck.

As Dana pulled out his guitar and played this song a random stranger walked through the coffee house and as she listened commented aloud, “that’s my life” and laughed. I took this as a sure sign that what he’s sharing resonates not only with the elderly, but with the average every day person.

What do you plan to do with your music?
There are bands that play for the hoopla, and there are those who play for therapeutic effect. I’m definitely the latter. The social atmosphere of playing gigs in bars late at night is not interesting to me. I’m much more interested in the therapeutic and healing power of music. I’m currently completing the coursework at Isothermal’s Polk Campus to become a certified nurse’s aid and will eventually work to become a registered nurse.

Why did you choose “God Bless America” as your regular closer?
That first day at the veteran’s home I finished with that song and it stuck. My patriotism was reinforced after 9/11. I was in the Navy nine years and deeply appreciate the service. Plus it leaves everyone on a real upbeat note at the end.

Barry Flood preserving Tryon Theater for the community

2008-04-18T08:00:00.001-04:00

One of the landmarks of Tryon’s trade street is the Tryon Movie Theater. I’ve been there once or twice, but knew nothing about how a movie theater is run. I took some time with Barry Flood one evening before the movie to catch a quick behind the scenes tour as he made preparations for that evening’s show.

I hear you’ve been making some improvements to the theater.
You can see there’s new carpet. I added a new projector system two years ago. Until then we’d been using an old carbon projector from the 1930s. The movies come shipped as six reels that are half a mile each and now they get spliced together on the new platter system. There’s no switching the reels during the film or rewinding, they feed from one platter to another. The projector came from Wofford where it had only been used 1200 hours in fifteen years. One of the major advantages for me is being able to load the next week’s film while the current film is playing.
Over Christmas we installed a surround sound system. There are three speakers on each wall, two in the balcony and three behind the screen. The best sound is in the center downstairs, but the ones behind the screen face up toward the balcony. Now during the big action scenes you can feel the sound. Hopefully by the end of the year the theater will be able to switch to a digital sound system that uses a computer to process the film sound. Then the next project is to renovate the balcony.

It seems like money is tight for everyone right now. How have you been able to afford these upgrades?
A dollar per ticket goes into a building fund so the renovations can be done. It will take 35-50,000 to improve the ceiling, but I don’t do anything until it can be paid for out of the fund.
Five years ago we reconditioned the seats. Basically, the more people that come to the movies the more goes into the fund and things get done.

How long have you been in the movie business?
Eighteen years ago in June I started running the theater and bought it in February 1991. I thought it would be a nice project for retirement. I was a school teacher for thirty two years. I still enjoy running it. When I no longer enjoy it, then it’s time to look for something else.

What is your current movie schedule?
We started with Juno and have proceeded to show all the Oscar movies including There Will Be Blood and Atonement. The Film Society is showing No Country for Old Men and The Diving Bell & Butterfly.

What is the Film Society?
It started about twelve years ago. Members pay yearly dues and then receive a dollar off the ticket price of every movie they see. Film Society members also received three to four ballots each year to vote for the movies that are booked at the theater. Kite Runner was one of their picks, and after the Oscar films we’ll start showing their film selections.

Do you think people go to the theater less as more families get widescreen TVs?
Hopefully people realize that you should see some movies on a big screen, not just a widescreen TV. Otherwise you don’t feel the magnitude of the film. In the theater it feels like you’re a part of it.

I’ve heard you allow some of the conveniences of home in the theater.
While you still can’t get to the bathroom without missing some of the film, you can visit the concession stand and not miss anything. Upstairs in the balcony we still allow smoking. I have electrostatic precipitators, or smoke eaters, to clear the air. We serve beer upstairs too.

Has the drinking ever been a problem at the theater?
In eighteen years we’ve never had a problem with the beer drinkers bothering other patrons. I know alcohol and cigarettes offend some, so they can sit downstairs and not be bothered. Upstairs is restricted to adults, so if you want to be away from the kids you might also choose to sit upstairs.
I also require that anyone under seventeen is accompanied by an adult. Since we showed Titanic, that’s been the policy. Mostly it’s because of problems with teens using the theater as a social gathering place and talking during the movie. The theater is not a babysitting service, but if a couple of adults want to bring a group of kids or teens to see a movie that’s fine.

How did you decide to run a movie theater?
It wasn’t particularly a life long dream, but I have always wanted to be my own boss. This opportunity appeared at the right time. The movies were a brand new business for me, so I learned from the previous owner as I went. I majored in chemistry with no business experience, so either dumb luck or common sense allowed me to make good decisions.

One of the keys is to know the demographic of the cliental. Three of the top five movies last year were for children; the other two were for adults. Teen horror and action movies or off-color comedies do not do well here because of the audience. I have one evening show each day, but keep the Sunday matinee for those patrons who don’t like to drive at night.

Is the theater used for other events besides movies?
Usually just benefit concerts. If someone comes to me with an idea, we can work it out. For Super Saturday we work as a venue. The theater has a two level stage with spotlights and back lighting. The building opened in 1932 as a theater but the structure may date back to the late 1800s. There was a fire and it was rebuilt adding the balcony in 1938. Originally it was used for vaudeville and local plays in addition to film. Back then there was no TV or radio, so people came out for entertainment.

Take a moment to join your community for some quality family entertainment at the historic Tryon Movie Theater.

Ailey II, DAD paintings, Bell Ringers, & new blues for Steeplechase

2008-04-17T08:00:00.001-04:00

As guests pour into town this weekend for the grand equestrian event of the year, the local artists and venues are rolling out the red carpet in greeting. Tryon Fine Arts Center is “putting on the Ritz” tonight with Ailey II. Now in its 50 Season, the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre in New York has become synonymous with innovation and excellence while travelling the world as ambassadors of American culture through modern dance. Ailey II is the cutting edge ensemble of the Ailey School, merging young dancers with emerging choreographers to provide the freshest and most energizing dance experience. The performance starts at 8 p.m. For more information, directions or tickets contact the Tryon Fine Arts Center at 34 Melrose Ave. in Tryon by calling 828-859-8322 or going to their website at www.tryonarts.org.

Friday night the Gallery at Bear Creek is dressing up with a vibrant reception for their new collection of oil paintings by former National Geographic photographer Don A. Drown (DAD). This Vietnam veteran has lived an adventurous life behind the lens of a camera working for Time Life Films, the Smithsonian and nearly every television network. A health crisis in 2002 slowed down DAD’s travel lust, but his paintings reflect the wisdom and whimsy of his wandering spirit. The reception will begin at 4 p.m. and kick into high gear at 6:30 p.m. with live music on the porch from The Full Moon Dusters until 9:30 p.m. The young and fresh music of this roots rock group from Asheville is the perfect way to ease your self into a Carolina mountain weekend. Sidle up the Saluda grade to discover The Gallery at Bear Creek located at 5008 US Hwy 176 or contact them for directions at 828-749-4400 or www.galleryatbearcreek.us.

For those who want to escape the crowd out at FENCE, the Friends of the Library will be presenting a lovely musical concert at the Columbus Branch of Polk County Library. Saturday at 1 p.m. treat your self to the combined handbell groups of the surrounding counties performing an afternoon of sacred and secular music as the Blue Ridge Ringers. Local ringers Pamela Easler, Lou Murch, and Jane Stikeleather will join the group which plays five octaves of Malmark Handbells and Handchimes. For more information call Marian Bryan at 828-894-6339.

After the races Saturday night Polk County heats up with live music. The Purple Onion in Saluda will host the Nashville based “blues grass” guitarist Brian Ashley Jones. Meanwhile, Saluda Mountain Jamboree offers up a huge dance party with the Southern Pointe from 8-11 p.m. If you are looking for something with a bit more bite, check out the debut at Elmo’s of the Dog Fight Blues Band at 8:30 p.m. Made up of hard working local musicians Red Dog on guitar, Tom Hearn on bass, Mikey Van Dusen on drums and vocals, with Chuck Gurney blowing blues on harmonica the group has been cooking up a special recipe of rocking blues that’s sure to get the crowd moving and grooving.

Perk up your Sunday afternoon with a bit of live jazz from about 2-4 p.m. as the Dixie Rhythm Aces make a sneak peek appearance at the Gallery Coffeehouse before their dinner concert Wednesday at Persimmons Bistro in Landrum.

Speaking of Wednesday, don’t miss the delightful and entertaining Ann B. Ross as she reads from her new book Miss Julia Takes a Stand. Presented at the Tryon Fine Arts Center at 2 p.m. the proceeds from the program will benefit Thermal Belt Outreach. For more information contact Cynthia Terwilliger at cynthia@tboutreach.org or 828-894-2923.

Songwriter Stockdale making a difference with PCHS Green Team

2008-04-11T08:00:00.002-04:00

Gail Stockdale approached me at a community chorus rehearsal with a CD in hand and mentioned that her son was playing a concert at Rogers Park for a special Earth Day event. She asked me to please listen to his music and let her know if I might have the time to write about him before the event. Wary of a “Mom CD,” having made a few that my mother loves and I can’t stand to listen to anymore, I cautiously accepted and gave her my contact information to pass along to her son Noah.

My worry quickly turned to relief as I listened to the first song “College Radio” on the CD. It was well recorded and well crafted original music that I could easily imagine fitting into the rotation mix at WNCW. While the songs have an audience pleasing familiarity to them, the guitar and vocals are flavorful and rich conveying a wisdom I did not expect from a teenage songwriter. To label him “folk” would be a misleading because there is a definitive rhythm and punch that is more akin to the “alternative” sound in his style. In short he’s a storyteller that will wake you up to listen.

When I finally got a phone call from Noah I dropped what I was doing to stop and ask him a few questions about the upcoming concert.

So what is this event on Saturday afternoon?

We’re calling it Earth Day and it’s an event to raise community awareness about recycling. We have a new club at the high school. People are worried about global warming and we want to share information about the options to make a difference. Our focus right now is recycling and showing people where to go and what to recycle.

Who is sponsoring the event? Is it a student or teacher run group?

Polk County High School Green Team is sponsoring the event. The teachers help, but it’s mostly student run. I had heard an announcement at school about it and then Liz Willis and some other good friends encouraged me to get involved.

What did the club start out doing?

We are running a recycling program at the high school. We started out by simply taking cardboard boxes and writing “recycling” on them. We distributed them and then eventually upgraded to the green bins. So our focus has been in the school.

How did your club decide to put on a concert?

We were going to take a power point to the middle and elementary schools to get kids revved about recycling. I volunteered to play a song, Jack Johnson’s “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” to fill time. I left the meeting and went to pick up my little brother at the middle school. As I was stopped, a teacher walked up to me and said, “Hey, I think the concert would be a great idea.”

So in that short space of time the one song you had volunteered to do became a whole concert?

Yeah, it worked like that, but it’s good this way because we can reach a wider audience.

When did you start playing?

I was inspired at twelve by a Dispatch song called “The General.” I knew I needed to find a guitar and find my voice and play that for people. It just took off from there.

How long did it take you to get a guitar after that?

Maybe a month or two. For my next birthday my dad bought me a guitar.

Then what did you do to learn it?

My dad found me a guitar teacher, Mark in Alabama. That’s where we were living.

What kept you working on it?

There’s something special when you listen to a song, but when you learn to sing and play it, you take a little bit of ownership to the song. It’s like a little bit of it becomes your property. I enjoy playing them for people and just for my own satisfaction.

What’s the first song you could play?

“Run Around” by Blues Traveler. I learned the four chords and could play it.

What’s your favorite song you’ve learned now?

Hmm, that’s tough, they al kind of sit at the same level.

Then if you were asked to play a song by somebody else right now, what would it be?

“1979” by Smashing Pumpkins.

When did you start writing?

I joined, or made a punk rock band and wrote about politics and teenage stuff like not having a car. That was in St. Louis, Missouri.

St. Louis, Alabama? Where all have you lived?

Florida, Ohio, Alabama, Virginia, and Missouri, I think that’s all.

How did you end up here?

My dad wanted to retire here.

What do you think about finishing high school here?

I wouldn’t want to be any other place. We lived here when I was three and it feels like home. This is where I’m supposed to be.

What year are you in school?

I’m a Senior and will graduate in 2008.

Then what?

I’m going to UNCA to major in English to teach English.

Do you think you’ll put together a band again?

In Asheville I may work in a band again, but until then I’m just working solo.

So will you be playing the songs from the CD your mom gave me on Saturday?

You got the Mom CD? “College Radio” and “Mountain Man,” I think most of them.

Catch Noah Stockdale and the Polk County High School Green Team this Saturday from 2-6 p.m. at Rogers Park. In addition to Noah’s soulful and vibrant original guitar and vocals from 4-4:45 p.m. there will be music from local professionals Phil & Gaye Johnson, Ian Harrod & Louis Elliot, and the Lone Derangers. Be sure to bring the whole family and let the kids enjoy the Creation Stations which include bird feeders, planters, face painting, stepping stones, chalk drawing, and coloring activities.

Gallery openings galore & Fools for Earth Day

2008-04-10T08:00:00.001-04:00

Tryon Painters and Sculptors will hold receptions at TFAC Friday night 5-7 p.m. for both galleries. Gallery One “East Meets West” Pat Wellborn. At the same time in Gallery Too Penny Kessler, a student of Pat Wellborn, exhibits. Both painters work in watercolors. Pat travels between New Mexico and North Carolina and her artwork reflects the love of two very different landscapes of mountains she calls home. Pat will also use acrylics to capture the majestic colors of her subjects. Penny focuses more on people. She will also use pastels and oils when capturing the character of her subjects. For more information you may call 828-859-8322.

“The Horse Course: Celebrating Equestrian Life” at Red Clover Gallery also opens Friday with a reception from 6-8 p.m. This multi-media exhibit is in collaboration with the Spartanburg Cooperative Southern Exposure and features the work of twelve different artists sharing their unique perspectives on the horse. For more information about the exhibit, please call 864-457-3311.

Growing up in Seattle where the largest arts festival covering the Seattle Center is called “Bumbershoot” I didn’t let a little rain stop me from getting downtown last Saturday morning. However, despite a lively crowd at the Gallery Coffeehouse working to make the day brighter, it was deemed too wet for a parade. So, this Saturday bring your foolish self back to downtown Tryon early in the day for the second attempt at the second annual April Fool’s Festival and Parade. From 10ish – 12:30 p.m. wake up to some jazz and coffee with the Dixie Rhythm Aces at the Gallery Coffeehouse. Visit the local shops, galleries and (hopefully dry) street vendors as the Worship Warriors provide some Christian rock in front of Merle Norman. For more information about how to get involved, call Jody at Isadora’s Closet 828-859-9581.

Bring a bumbershoot (umbrella) or wrap yourself in plastic to ensure the sun will shine on all the fools and foolish at heart ready to join in the parade. Waterproof your silly finery, bring a boat or just decorate your car, tractor, bike, or galoshes and join the line-up at 12:30 p.m. at the corner of Trade and New Market Street. Children are still invited by the Polk County Book Mobile to dress as their favorite character and join with the library staff in the parade. The assembled merry band of fools will parade down Trade Street at 1 p.m. followed by the Outhouse Races up Trade Street at 2 p.m.

The foolish monkey band has agreed to appear again, and graciously worked out their schedule to support the Polk County High School students in their effort to raise awareness about recycling. Instead of trying to get out of town after all the foolish parading and racing, head up to Rogers Park and check out the first Earth Day celebration sponsored by the PCHS Green Team Club. Phil & Gaye Johnson will lead off the concert. The Lone Derangers will rush over from their morning gig and close the show with their fun rocking Americana music. However, not to be missed is a bright young gem of a performer Noah Stockdale sandwiched in the middle. Noah is a Senior and member of the PCHS Green Team Club, and discovered the best way to get folks revved about recycling is to share his musical and poetic skills on the stage. His talent with guitar and gift for political songwriting make his music both entertaining and interesting for the audience.

Speaking of interesting music, the cello and guitar duo Montana Skies performs for the Purple Onion Sunday night concert at 7 p.m. Mixing their classical training including influences like Bach and Vivaldi with rock and roll bands like Pink Floyd and Rush, their original songs have a flavor all their own. Seating is limited so call early for tickets 828-749-1179.

Second Annual April Fool’s Festival in Tryon

2008-04-04T08:00:00.001-04:00

Once upon a time there was a St. Patrick’s Parade in Tryon. But business owners like Kathleen Carson felt a bit foolish parading in the freezing cold for the small crowd that remained loyal to Tryon while others ventured to Hendersonville and other “larger” Irish celebrations in the area. So last year the April Fool’s Festival was born. By moving the parade a few weeks, the Tryon merchants found the sunshine they were looking for to help celebrate all that is wonderful and creative about this lovely little hamlet. Bill Crowell recalls a bit of confusion over the change causing it to be misquoted as the “St. Fool’s Festival” by some citizens who remembered the old parade. Last year’s “Leader of the Pack” Kathleen wishes to reassure people that the festival is not meant to poke fun at any particular person or saint, but to celebrate our own “foolish” eccentricities that make this town a vibrant arts community.

The winter months slow down as people beat the cold by staying off the streets, but as we leap into spring it’s the perfect time to go for a stroll downtown and rediscover what this community has to offer. The local business owner’s like Jody at Isadora’s Closet and Bill Ingham at the Gallery Coffeehouse have done their spring cleaning and offer a fresh look at their goods and services. The galleries like Upstairs Artspace and Simply Irresistible open their doors with new and exciting exhibits of art work. Old friends meet and greet while listening to music and visiting the local vendors. Most small business owners don’t have the time to organize an entire festival for the town, so this year they split up the work and are hoping the community will join them for an even more festive day this year on Saturday, April 5 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Starting at 10 a.m. Merle Norman will be bringing some music to their end of the street from the Christian rock band Worship Warriors. The Gallery Coffeehouse offers another stop in the middle of town with live dance music created by plectrum banjo, trumpet, and clarinet from the Dixie Rhythm Aces. Local artists and community organizations like the Rotary Club and Foothills Humane Society set up along the sidewalks to share their work and information about the services they bring to the community of Tryon. It’s not too late to give a phone call to Jody at Isadora’s Closet (828-859-9581) and find out how your group can add to the festivity of the day.

Everyone with a foolish notion to join the parade is invited to line up at the corner of Trade and New Market at 12:30 p.m. Tracey Daniels from The Polk County Library will be bringing the Bookmobile down to the parade and encourages children interested in joining the parade to dress up as their favorite storybook character and join the library staff. As for the other entries in the parade…who knows what you’ll see? Last year Asheville artist Bob 7 made an appearance with his Emerge-N-See Art Ambulance. Tryon juggler Kevin Bradley performed from atop his unicycle. Mill Spring artist MONA!, while always festive and colorful, was even more so for the occasion in her unique art car. Former mayor “write-in” candidate, Claude Warren built a balloon octopus for his kids to guide down the street. Buck’s pizza had a brigade of pizza slices marching in step while handing out goodies. Simply Irresistible owner Kathleen Carson led the motorcycle pack on her creatively decorated bicycle with its basket full of pink flamingos. So, dig out your favorite foolish ideas and join in the fun, or line up to watch the procession down Trade Street from New Market to the Fire Department at 1 p.m. For more information about joining the parade call Cindy Viehman at 828-817-4993.

Immediately following the parade the outhouses racers will line up to see which team can push or pull their outhouse up Trade Street in record time. Foothills Realty has their second place outhouse from last year on display on the sidewalk if you want to get a look at the competition early. Last year the Rotary Club created a lovely outhouse but ran into some difficulty getting it to move fast enough. Call Jody at Isadora’s to get the rules and details about entering the race.

Bring a chair, or make reservations for the deck at Kyoto’s to sit back and enjoy the music starting at 2:30 p.m. in the Shops of Tryon parking lot. Bill Crowell “entertainment committee of one” has rousted the Lone Derangers to rock the afternoon away. The band of local professional musicians creates a lovely Americana folk rock sound with Doug Dacey on vocals and guitar, Jay Lichty on vocals, electric banjo and mandolin, Stan Halbcat on vocals and upright bass, Andy Costine on vocals and guitar, Charles Wolff on drums, and Gerald Ellenburg on resophonic guitar. Sit back and relax on a lovely spring afternoon with this fun and entertaining group. In fact, those foolish enough to get comfy and wear their pajamas to the concert will be rewarded with a free ice cream cone from Simple Simon’s between 3 and 5 p.m.

All in all, the April Fool’s Festival is a chance to celebrate the spirit of our town’s unique treasures and share with your neighbors what makes Tryon the “friendliest little town in the South.”

‘Fantastick’ Paxton’s Jamboree and Fools for art

2008-04-03T08:00:00.001-04:00

If you haven’t seen Tryon Little Theatre’s current production “The Fantasticks” yet, you have four more days to catch this beautifully sweet show this weekend. The show runs at 8 p.m. tonight through Saturday with a final matinee at 3 p.m. on Sunday. Filled with memorable songs like “Try to Remember,” “Soon it’s Gonna Rain,” and “Plant a Radish,” you are sure to recognize something in the show, if not a bit of yourself. There will be a slight cast change this weekend putting Chris Riddle himself on stage as father to the teenage belle Luisa. Remember this musical production is in the Workshop, so be sure to purchase your tickets early since seating is limited in this intimate space.

A “fantastick” real young boy is being honored with a benefit in Saluda on Friday night. Paxton Mitchell is three years old and fighting for his life against a rare form of leukemia. The son of a nurse and Asheville City fireman, he couldn’t ask for more attentive and nurturing parents. The firefighters of Western North Carolina ask you to join them this weekend at the Saluda Mountain Jamboree to help celebrate Paxton and aid his parents with the medical costs in this battle. Friday night, from 7-11 p.m. the Jamboree hall will be filled with music from DJ John Wayne and the Concord, NC band Hillbilly Deluxe. Everyone is welcome to come join in a fun filled musical evening in honor of this special little boy. You can learn more about Paxton’s story at www.caringbridge.org/visit/paxtenmitchell.

Saturday bring your foolish self to downtown Tryon early in the day for a festive day of music, art, outhouse races, and more. It’s the second annual April Fool’s Festival and Parade. From 10 – 12:30 p.m. stroll the streets of Tryon and visit the local shops, galleries and street vendors as the Worship Warriors provide some Christian rock in front of Merle Norman while the Dixie Rhythm Aces inspire some foolish dancing to hot jazz in front of the Gallery Coffeehouse.

All fools and foolish at heart are welcome to join in the parade. Throw on some silly finery, bring a float or just decorate your car, tractor, bike, or shoes and join the line-up at 12:30 p.m. at the corner of Trade and New Market Street. Children are invited by the Polk County Book Mobile to dress as their favorite character and join with the library staff in the parade. The assembled merry band of fools will parade down Trade Street at 1 p.m. Stick around after the parade for the Outhouse Races up Trade Street at 2 p.m. There is still time to put together an outhouse and team for this event. Stop by Foothills Realty to take a peek at their outhouse for inspiration.

After all that parading and racing, kick back and listen to the band that claims to have been raised by monkeys in the Shops of Tryon parking lot. The Lone Derangers will kick up the volume with their eclectic mix of folk and rock at 2:30 p.m. Oh, and did I mention that anyone still foolish enough to be wearing pajamas from 3 – 5 p.m. will be treated to a free ice cream cone by Simple Simon’s? For more information about how to get involved, call Jody at Isadora’s Closet 828-859-9581.

When you’ve had enough foolishness for the day, get yourself up to Saluda by 8 p.m. to catch the soulful blues sounds of Grit Pixies Eliza Lynn and Jill Fromewick at the Purple Onion. If you’re a night owl, you might prefer the straight shooting sounds of Norm and Chuck rocking the night away at Elmo’s.

You’ve heard of “stop and smell the roses,” but how about “stop and view the art?” In the coming week if you find yourself traveling the Saluda grade, take time out to stop and visit the Gallery at Bear Creek. Located at Melrose Station on US 176, they invite you to come see their new exhibit of oil paintings by Transylvania County artist Joe Kotowski.

‘Fantastick’ theatre, Super Saturday and Cabell’s golden throat

2008-03-27T08:00:00.004-04:00

It’s that other Thursday again, which means I’ll be down at the Melrose Inn at 6:30 p.m. for the lovely buffet to meet and greet the variety of talented people who arrive for the Artist’s Salon. Rumor has it that banjo man Dan Petrella along with the rest of the Dixie Rhythm Aces will be making an early appearance. Join us with your own poetry, musical, theatrical or even conversational talents for a relaxed evening of entertainment. We’ll get started early enough that you can still make opening night at the Tryon Little Theatre Workshop.

Tonight at 8 p.m. Tryon Little Theatre presents the opening of one of the most endearing musicals of all time, The Fantasticks. There will be a lovely opening night party for the audience to meet the cast after the show tonight with tasty treats catered by Persimmons Bistro.

Directed by Chris Riddle, the production stars the lovely Elizabeth Moore and dashing young Jack Carruth as they sing their hearts through this poetic and humorous story of young love. Surrounded by an exciting cast of characters including Elizabeth’s own father Lindsey Moore playing the young man’s father, as the entertaining Dan Kimble takes a turn at playing the young lady’s father. The eloquent Hamilton Goodman, seen last season as Guildenstern, plays the trickster El Gallo, while Sam Lovelace goes silent as the Mute to show us that not all communication requires words. The comedians Elvin Clark and Ike Wilson will bring plenty of stage experience to their roles of…well, actors. What do actors act like when they are left to wander through a love story? Get your tickets now and see the show to find out by stopping by the TLT Workshop’s box office or call 859-2466. The show runs Thurs. – Sat. at 8 p.m. and Sun. at 3 p.m. for the next two weekends.

Friday while you can still visit the Polk County Library for plenty of entertaining books, movies, and music, please note that the noon program for this month has skipped a beat and will resume next month on April 25 with founder of Spartanburg’s Hubb City Writers Project, Betsy Teter.

I’ll be making Friday an early night, perhaps with some jazz piano from Fred Whiskin at the Purple Onion, so I’ll be bright eyed in the morning for the 30th Annual Super Saturday Children’s Festival. Magicians, jugglers, puppeteers, clowns, and more fill the streets and local performance venues from 9:30 a.m. until the afternoon. I’ll be painting faces before and after the noon parade with the talented Sam Lovelace up on Melrose Avenue. Otherwise, despite my age, you’d find me enjoying the Commedia dell’arte Pied Piper presented by the Tarradiddle Players at Tryon Movie Theatre, marveling at Ballet Spartanburg’s presentation of Peter & the Wolf at Tryon Fine Arts Center, or drumming my heart out with found percussion showman Billy Jonas at Holy Cross. With all this wonderful entertainment, I’m most impressed with the support for this yearly event by local businesses to allow the tickets prices to remain family friendly as well. After 30 years three people can get into a show for less than the current price of a gallon of gas. Walk if you have to, and join in a wonderful community event.

If you need to take a break from the downtown festivity, escape out to Harmon Field where Tryon Arts & Crafts will be hosting an open house from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. to celebrate the finished work of Wiley Gainus’ lapidary students.

If I’m not worn out by the day, I might just hurry home and wash up for Tryon Concert Association’s final concert of the season Saturday night at 8 p.m. Prize winning pianist Spencer Myer will be accompanying the beautiful voice of lyric soprano Nicole Cabell. This Decca recording artist has been busy traveling the United States and Europe to sing major roles since winning the 2005 BBC Singer of the World competition in Cardiff, Wales. What a treat for Tryon to host an evening of her talent.

Tactile sculpturama, colorful Parrish, and Weird Mojo

2008-03-20T08:00:00.001-04:00

I finally took some time off from work to visit the Sculpturama exhibit at the Tryon Fine Arts Center Gallery I and the Maxfield Parrish collection at Upstairs Artspace this week.

It was a cloudy day and so to walk in to the TFAC Gallery and see Luke Lichterman’s “Around Here the Sun is a Happy but Serious Fellow” again was like meeting an old friend sharing a cheerful smile. I recognized the names of local artists Richard Conn and Dale McIntyre who I had previously seen as well as the work of Lee Futrell who had an exhibit of sculpture in the front room of the Upstairs Gallery last year. I found myself drawn to the marble work of McIntyre, Lichterman’s “Gentle Breeze” wood carving, and a hanging sculpture I stared at for quite a while without grabbing the artist’s name, only that the title included “Teacher.” Then I noticed that some sculptures had ribbons and some didn’t and most of the ones I had been drawn to didn’t. I began looking at the ribbon wearing pieces and comparing them to the ones that I liked and trying to figure out what made them “better.” What I began to realize was, that the same way each artist has a unique look and feel to their art work, you could identify common characteristics among the selections that revealed the judges’ taste in sculpture. While I preferred the smooth carved pieces from natural materials, the winners we more likely to include metal and inclined to make you step back and think rather than reach out and touch. Take a moment this week to see these fine pieces of sculpture for yourself and discover what types of sculpture appeal to your personal senses.

Walking into the Upstairs Artspace was a completely different, but equally refreshing experience. I felt energized by all the color and detail of Parrish’s illustrations. The wide range of the collection showed the whimsy of his children’s book illustrations such as “Dinky Bird.” At the same time pieces like “Stars” and “Serenity” seemed to fill me with a sense of comfort just by looking at them. It was nice to have the gallery to myself that afternoon so I could take the time to look closely at the detail of the work as well as step back and get an overall feeling for the collection. However, I can’t help but find myself curious about how Harriet and J. Alan Peoples acquired such an amazing collection of one artist’s work. To answer just this question Upstairs Artspace will be hosting a free evening with Alan Peoples on Tuesday March 25 at 7 p.m. entitled “The Passionate Collector” where Alan will share secrets about collecting from acquiring and determining value to maintaining, storing, displaying and even bequeathing a collection.

Over the weekend I collected musical experiences playing kazoo with the Two Man Gentleman Band from New York at Jack of the Wood in Asheville and picking out some tunes with friends at the Gallery Coffeehouse. I strolled into Elmo’s to hear Red Dog, Winkie, and Friends on St. Patrick’s Day with their crowd pleasing “blues to Buffet” set. It was a pleasurable surprise to see that seven years of tossing pizzas had done nothing to dull Tom’s bass playing chops.

This weekend offers a chance for music lovers of all styles to get their fix. Tonight you can catch the clever balladeer Nick Annis at the Purple Onion or stop by Friday and marvel at the jazz virtuosity of pianist Fred Whiskin. Saturday night Purple Onion gets “countrified” with the talented and lively Buckerettes from Asheville.

Pick out a few tunes yourself at the Gallery Coffeehouse for their monthly Listening to Coffee open mic Friday. Or pull out your dancing shoes for Freeway South at the Saluda Mountain Jamboree on Saturday.

If the weather kept you from getting to FENCE to hear Weird Mojo at the benefit for Chip Anderson last weekend, stop in for a bit of their high energy entertainment Saturday night at Elmo’s. Around 8:30 p.m. Susie Kocher will light up the room singing and dancing with her tambourine while guitarist Steve Whiteside, bassist Hank, and drummer Mike play a wide variety of rock, blues, and country favorites.

The theatre scene cranks up next weekend with The Fantasticks opening next Thursday March 27 at Tryon Little Theatre’s Workshop. Be sure to get your tickets early for this exciting musical since seating is limited in the intimate workshop space. Also, make plans to bring the whole family downtown Saturday March 29 from 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. for the 30th Annual Super Saturday Children’s Festival. Magicians, jugglers, storytellers, and theatre and more will delight your senses in the various venues.