The Ebb and Flow of Lauren Wood – A Multifaceted and Multi-talented Creator of Beautiful Music
“What will strike you most about Wood’s music is her sultry, sexy voice, but if you get past that, you will find subtly crafted tunes of immense sophistication and insight.” – John Schoenberg, The Album Network – I visited Lauren in her home in Laurel Canyon. It mirrored the talented, somewhat quirky, off-beat artist. Her house was colorful and took me back to the fifties and sixties as soon as I entered. There was a vintage mannequin in one corner of the living room, vinyl album jackets neatly placed in a rack against a wall, musical “I have a little kid’s attitude. I am very playful andI live in a house that looks like Peewee’s playhouse. I’ve never had a real job. I guess you could say I am the true Indie artist.”
How did you get involved in music? I noticed that as much as I loved art, I never enjoyed actually doing the art. I feel like my house is all art, but I’m happiest when the art is all done and I can live in the art. What’s your background? When I was a little kid, music affected me on the deepest level. I was mesmerized by George Gershwin. My parents used to play show tunes all the time, and I was in love with Richard Rogers and his work with Rogers and Hammerstein. Did you always know you could sing? I have found a style and it’s something that has evolved for years. I’ve had to work really hard [at singing]. There are some people who can wake up in the morning and sing really great, but I have to work at it. Tell me about some of your successes. I have been making records since 1968. I was in a band called Rebecca and the Sunnybrook Farmers, and then the band dwindled down into the three of us and we How long have you been independent? My first Indie record was called Lauren Wood 1999. It has “Fallen” on it too, as well as the Pretty Woman mix, and now my newest record is called Love, Death and Customer Service. What is your process for writing a song?
So it’s a natural process for you. Yes, and I can’t force it. Have you had any obstacles in your career? Back when I first started, before I hit the “ageism” thing in pop music, I was hitting the “woman” thing. I used to have problems with people if they did not let me be free. Back then it wasn’t a given like it is today that women could be a producer. That used to be a problem. The producers that let me have more input, I’d do good work. I’m known mostly for my ballads, and my music has to ebb and flow. You mentioned that it took a year to master your new recordLove, Death and Customer Service ? I worked on it for 5 years. We’d mix for a week, go back and remix. I finally created this lovely album. When you master, in order to make it louder, it goes through this compressor and it pulled the air and vibrato out of my vocal and it took out the soft lilt Highest High Other than when I get emails from people who write “Fallen” has gotten them through an illness, I had 2 experiences while touring in Malaysia. I had caught a cold and was very sick in Malaysia. I started to lose my voice and I was performing at one of the clubs there. Well, I walked into the building with my band, and the people at the club threw a spotlight on me. And everybody asked me to sing “Fallen.” The band started to play, and people were all standing on the tables and mouthing the words to “Fallen.” This was on the other side of the earth, and this little song that just came through me had affected all these people. The other thing that was so fun in Malaysia was that we put in my contract that I could kiss a baby elephant. So they closed the zoo and let me have a private tour. I got to hold a baby orangutan, and I got to kiss a baby elephant. My music brought me to these animals around the world. I was taught at an early age by my father to love and respect animals, so it was deeply ingrained in me by the time I went to Malaysia. It meant a lot. Lowest Low I’m trying to get my record on radio. Back when I started doing music, you could hear Tony Bennett, Elvis Presley, The Beatles, Frank Sinatra, The Doors, Joni Mitchell…on the same radio station. But these days, corporations have taken over the airwaves. The stations are so overly analyzed and formatted that it’s killing What about Internet radio? This record is on radio, but it’s not easy. What’s been your process trying to get it on? I make calls myself. When I was on Warner Brothers, they asked me to call the radio programmers and thank them for playing my records, and I did. So I [already]
What advice would you give an Indie artist who is trying to make it in this business? Be yourself. Be an artist. Be the best you can be. Work really hard. Don’t have an attitude. Be humble. Life is tough enough to have to deal with people who are not nice. To learn more about Lauren Wood, visit her website atwww.laurenwood.com. Interviewed by Kaylene Peoples |
Category: Winter 2006/2007
Pick Nick’s for Romance Nick’s Fishmarket of Hawaii Boca Raton, Florida
“Romance on the Road”
PICK “NICK’S” FOR ROMANCE
Nick’s Fishmarket of Hawaii
Boca Raton, Florida
Over the holidays, we were in Florida with Dennis’s family. It’s great to spend time with them, but after three days, it was either committing hari-kari by jumping off the 10 th floor balcony, or sneaking off someplace to be on our own.
So I called my girlfriend who lives in Boca Raton and asked her for a recommendation. When she heard I was doing a column, “Romance on the Road”- she screamed excitedly, “If you’re writing about romantic restaurants, you MUST go to Nick’s. You have to! It’s the most romantic place in Boca.”
That was all I needed to hear. I promptly called and made a reservation. While the name, “Nick’s Fishmarket” doesn’t necessarily evoke an image of romance, I love to be surprised. And Nick’s Fishmarket of Hawaii is chock full of them.
Dennis and I parked the car on Palmetto Park Road, next to a nondescript office building. Hmmmm… I was still skeptical about its being “romantic.” It felt like we were going to the bank. But as soon as we walked through the front door, my skepticism vanished, and I surrendered to the magical atmosphere and divine ambiance that is Nick’s Fishmarket in Boca Raton!
The décor has a modern Hawaiian flavor. A long bar accentuated by a lighted pineapple fills the center of the room, with grass-covered “huts” for dining around the sides.
We were immediately greeted by a host who walked us over to our own special thatched hut – in a dimly lit corner. I loved it! The owner, Nick Nickolas, came by to say hello. What a lovely and charming man he is!
We also had a terrific waiter who was helpful and gracious, but the service and attention
didn’t stop there. One of the special things about Nick’s is the congenial service by all his staff, which consists of a four-man team for each table.
They are all extremely attentive with an air of I’m-happy-to-be-here-for-you. At Nick’s, all of the wait staff seem to take great enjoyment and pride in what they do. Interestingly, our waiter replaced our white linen napkins with black ones, when we sat down. Why? I wondered. Since we were wearing black, they didn’t want us to get lint from the white napkins on our clothes!
After ordering the wine, we looked at the menu. And wow, what a unique selection from Italian and French dishes, to Asian delicacies and Greek specialties, with a huge assortment of fresh seafood, as well. We sipped our wine and enjoyed the complimentary
appetizer of smoked marlin with sesame crackers, while perusing our dinner choices.
The menu has a tempting array of appetizers that includes escargots,spring rolls, and sautéed calamari; but a simple name doesn’t convey the complexity of each of these tantalizing dishes. For example, Dennis would never ordinarily order spring rolls (thinking Chinese take-out), but after the waiter described it, he couldn’t resist. And he wasn’t disappointed. I ordered Calamari Sorento with diced tomato, Parmesan cheese, and a demi-glaze.
For entrees, we decided on the Chilean Sea Bass Mirin, and the special lobster dish of the night. We had no idea how fantastic—and fantastically large—it would be! When they brought out the plate, we swooned! The lobster was a four-pounder, baked to moist and succulent perfection with a thick crab cake covering.
The sea bass was equally mouth-watering in its soy, miso and sweet mirin (Japanese wine) glaze, accompanied by sticky rice and vegetables. It was light, flaky, and delectable.
We always share our dishes, so Dennis started with the sea bass, and I began with the lobster. Very soon we switched plates. I took my time with the sea bass, savoring every bite, while Dennis attacked the lobster. He is a true pro at cracking each claw, leg, and back, and sucking out every last morsel.
We topped off our dinner with Nick’s Bananas Foster, a sweet and special ending to a scrumptious meal. Unable to finish the dish, we sat back, happy and full. What’s more romantic than that!
When we learned that Nick’s had only been open about two and a half months, we couldn’t believe it. It was soooo good, and soooo delicious, and the staff was sooo incredible. How could it be soooo new? Aha! Then we found out how!
The owner, Nick Nickolas, previously ran his restaurant at the Boca Raton Resort and Club for 18 years. So although this location is new, Nick has been a consummate restaurateur for decades. And it shows.
Nick is a warm, cordial host with an eye to pleasing his guests. There are photos on the wall of the many celebrities that have dined at his restaurants over the years. He is used to having well known diners—but then, he treats all his guests like they are celebrities.
Nick’s Fishmarket is a romantic spot, complemented by an excellent kitchen and responsive staff. And on Friday and Saturday nights, there’s dancing, too. So next time you’re near Boca Raton, Florida, take a break from your relatives, grab your honey, and go Hawaiian!
Nick’s Fishmarket of Hawaii
150 E. Palmetto Park Rd
Boca Raton, Florida 33432
561.393.9880
www.nicksboca.com
Written by Marilyn Anderson and Dennis Lanning
It’s All Greek to Me Papa Cristo’s
“Romance on the Road”
IT’S ALL GREEK TO ME
And it’s all fun and delicious, too! It’s Papa Cristo’s Taverna MY BIG FAT GREEK “FAMILY STYLE DINNER” EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT in Los Angeles. Bring your friends, and bring your appetite!
We arrived at 6:30 to find a number of people already seated “family style” at rows of long banquet tables in the brightly lit dining room that adjoins the Greek deli and bakery. At the front of the room was Papa Cristo’s Cousin Mark, pouring 5 different kinds of wine into tasting cups for the guests.
One wine was called “The Blood of Hercules,” a red, full-bodied wine. We loved the Cabernet Dionysus, especially because, as Cousin Mark told us, Dionysus means Dennis in Greek. It figures that’s the one we liked. After tasting all 5, we bought a bottle of the “Dennis” to enjoy with our feast, and a full-bodied feast it was! (Which would definitely make US even more full-bodied!)
Accompanying the wine tasting were appetizers, including Pita bread and taramazola, a white caviar dip. The salty taste was refreshing, particularly when we washed it down with more Dionysus. The appetizers also included a delicious garlicky grilled sausage.
After the Happy Half-Hour, the 5 rows of long tables were filled, some with birthday groups,
others with strangers fast becoming friends, but all with people very eager to eat and party!
Suddenly platters of food started arriving at the table. Everything’s served “family style,” and there’s plenty for even the hungriest of families. The tableware of choice is Styrofoam, not the most elegant way to dine, but it didn’t matter. The atmosphere was friendly, the food abundant, and the wine never stopped. Who even cared?
First came grape leaves, olives, and feta cheese, followed by plates overflowing with spanokopita, triangle-shaped spinach pies in a delicate phyllo crust. On the side, were bowls of tzatsina sauce, which was delicious when drizzled on any of the dishes or used as a dip for the bread. More pita was served, this time whole wheat triangles, and later, soft, fresh baguettes with the crunchiest of crust.
After all these appetizers, we were almost full, but oh, that was only the beginning. Fresh Greek salads with lettuce, tomatoes, and olives were topped with crumbled feta, of course, and a home-made salad dressing.
Then came the main course, or courses, I should say. Platters of fresh grilled skinless chicken, and for us, the piece de resistance, lamb chops. Oh, and speaking of “it’s all Greek to me,” at each table setting, there is a mini-Greek phonetic dictionary—who knows the Greek alphabet anymore? Okay, so it’s a small sheet of paper, “Papa Cristo’s Greek Survival Guide,” which gives the literal translation for certain important phrases, including:
Hello – Yasoo
Good night – Kalineehta
I’m Hungry – Peenow
Good Food – Kalo Fayeeto
How much does it cost? – Poso Kane ?
And about 20 other sayings, including my personal favorite:
I want a kiss – Thelo Filaki!
But, back to the food! Yes, there’s still more. Along with the entrees, they served sauteed string beans with a dash of tomato, and roasted potatoes. Add a dollop of the tzsatzina sauce on your lamb and chicken, and enjoy.
Of course, what makes it all so enjoyable is the ambiance and festive mood of the place, constantly being pierced with shouts of “Ooopa!” After a while a level of “culinary camaraderie” is evident. Everyone is having a grand time. A grand Greek time!
Dessert is, of course, baklava , with a delicious flaky crust and honey-filled pistachio filling. While serving, the waiters ask, “Who’s having a birthday?” (If no one is celebrating, they seem very disappointed, so even if no one really is, point to your friend and say, “He is!” just like I did to Dennis! Then they bring out a cream-filled tart with a candle in it, and the whole room, all 5 banquet tables, break into a loud, rowdy version of “Happy Birthday.” Although he protested, Dennis blew out the candle and happily consumed the sweet creamy treat.
After dessert, the show starts. The lights go down, and Greek music accompanies the entrance of the belly dancer. She gyrates and shimmies at the front of the room and down the aisles. Her first number is the warm-up solo. After that, using a hooked cane, she gently pulls men up from the audience. As more people are pulled from the audience to dance with
her, swaying their bellies and butts, she dances down the aisles; and people stuff dollar bills into her costume. Then she grabbed Dennis! Slightly embarrassed, but having had enough wine not to care, he danced and laughed as the audience applauded and laughed even harder!
The evening ends with everyone having had a satisfying meal and a genuinely good time. Oh, and before leaving the table, the waiters come by with take-out containers, urging everyone to stock up on the leftovers!
It’s hard to believe the reasonable price for all this. The complete dinner with entertainment, including tax and tip, is less than $25. The wine tasting is complimentary; but if you want a bottle, that’s extra, but very reasonable.
So, for romance and fun, with family or friends, pick any Thursday night and make it a special Greek holiday! Visit Papa Cristo’s for a great time. I know we’ll be going back, and when we do, I’ll see you there!
Papa Cristo’s Greek Taverna is located near downtown Los Angeles. Parking is in their own lot with a back entrance that takes you through storerooms richly painted with murals of the Greek countryside and coastal areas. Even seeing the sacks of Grecian flour and other imported commodities stacked on the shelves evokes an other-worldly feeling to this step-back-in-time treat of a place. Enjoy!
Papa Cristo’s
2771 W.Pico Blvd at Normandie
Los Angeles, CA 9006
800.732.3212
www.papacristo.com
Written by Marilyn Anderson and Dennis Lanning
C & O You Need to Go On the Beach in Venice, California
C & O You Need to Go
On the Beach in Venice, California
C&O Trattoria
Do you like listening to Frank Sinatra? Dean Martin? Louis Prima & Keely Smith? Do you like good wine? Great pasta? And low prices? Then you’ll love C & O! But we warn you, go on a weeknight because on weekends the crowds line up along the sidewalk!
The nice thing about C & O is that it’s casual but delicious; romantic but fun, and simple but sweet. With those wonderful romantic songs from Ol’ Blue Eyes & Company playing in the background! Oh, and the portions are humongous. Luckily, they offer half portions for the salads and pastas. The surprise is that even the half portions are big enough for two!
There’s a choice of wine and beer on the menu, although a lot of folks opt for the “honor wine bar.” Scattered along the walls are jugs of Chianti, where you can fill your glasses as often as you like. How to keep track? A crayon on your paper tablecloth! The waiter draws a little bald man – and you add hairs every time you have a glass! Beware! In a very short time, that little caricature can go from Gandhi to Don King!
Even before your food arrives, the waiter brings out the delightful and delicious killer garlic
rolls. They’re small bites of heaven. It’s hard to resist filling up on them, but you must…because that’s only the beginning of a huge repast!
On our recent visit, we split a half order of the chopped salad. It was fresh and delicious, with lettuce, tomato, corn, broccoli, garbanzo beans and mozzarella cheese, which we got on the side (a huge portion of it—could have taken it home to make a pizza).
We also asked for the balsamic dressing on the side. It was wonderful; we just like pouring it ourselves.
After our salad, we had a bowl of vegetable-filled white bean soup. Mmmm mmm good—and this was nothing like Campbell’s. Real home-made Italian soup. There were all kinds of delicious-sounding pastas on the menu, but when we heard our waiter announce the specials, we couldn’t resist. We ordered the caramelized short ribs and substituted their mashed potatoes for the special orzo pasta with vegetables that came with their other special.
The entrée arrived, and our taste buds did somersaults! It was enough for two, and they were 
gracious enough to bring us two plates. We finished off every morsel, licking our lips, and with smiles on our faces.
We had absolutely no room left for dessert, but of course we had it anyway! C’mon, who can say “no” to chocolate cake drizzled with chocolate sauce and accompanied by dollops of fresh whipped cream?
Luckily, C & O is right near the beach, so afterwards, take a romantic stroll to walk off the dinner—and steal a kiss from your love!
C & O actually stands for “Cheese & Olive” – but we think it should stand for Cooing and Oohing! C & O—make sure you G-O!
C & O Trattoria
31 Washington Boulevard
Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
(310) 823-9491
www.cotrattoria.com
Written by Marilyn Anderson
Tommy Rays in Studio City
“Romance on the Road”
Tommy Rays in Studio City
WHAT a party tonight at Tommy Rays! It’s a fabulous new restaurant on Ventura Blvd. in Studio City, and this was their Grand Opening bash! I joined the tons of people having drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and fun. Who was seen at the scene? First, there was Ed Begley Jr., a total gentlemen as well as a consummate actor. Ed, we love you! And I had such a cool conversation with Tasia Sherel from “Everybody Hates Chris.” Tasia was wearing a super outfit—with a stunning hat! I used to wear hats all the time, and seeing Tasia in one, I think I’ll start wearing one again!
Since I’m writing my column, “Romance on the Road,” I asked Tasia what her favorite “Romance on the Road” place is. Tasia loves Santa Barbara. Guess what? Me, too! I told her about an enchanting Bed & Breakfast there, Simpson House Inn. And the terrific 5-star Hotel Andalucia—and their restaurant “31 West!” Also, if you’re in Santa Barbara on a Wednesday night, don’t miss the Live Tango night at Cafe Buenos Aires!
But now, let’s return to the action at Tommy Rays tonight. Tasia has been married to a terrific guy for 10 years. Ever since I started my “Romance on the Road” column, I always have to ask people how they met; and Tasia has a wonderfully romantic story.
Before she started acting… and before her hubby started writing, they both worked at a COLLECTION agency. Now WHO would think that a “collection” agency could be romantic? Well, it can be… and it was… for Tasia and Anthony. They were both working there. He put
a can of “Orange Crush” soda on her desk with a note, “I’ve got a crush on you!” Tasia thought it was soooo sweet – BUT, uh-oh, she doesn’t like orange. So she told an associate that she preferred GRAPE. Sooooo, can you believe it – every day for the next week, Anthony put a can of GRAPE CRUSH soda on her desk. CUT TO: — years later – they are STILL happily married. Now, THAT’S romantic!
And who else did I talk to at the new and incredibly cool Tommy Rays? The daughter of “Ray”—Anna, a designer, who was with her hottie husband, J.R. J.R. turned out to be my hero. I lost an earring and he FOUND it in the middle of the floor. Not only that, but Anna and J.R. are having a baby in April! Her dad, Ray, is one of the owners of Tommy Rays and is an architect, with his office above the restaurant. The other owner is none other than the “Tommy” of Tommy Rays, former San Diego Padre Tommy Le Vasseur.
I sat down at a table to chat with Jon Polito—amazing character actor—and his partner, Darryl, who met on the set of a movie (I told you – I ALWAYS have to ask!) Also, Peter 
Onorati, who you might remember from lots of Steven Bochco’s shows. He also just finished shooting a movie in West Palm Beach. I told John Polito and Peter about my play, “Not Tonight, Guido,” and they agreed we should do a reading of it, soon!
Later, I spoke with Charlene Tilton, who looks incredible. She was working on a couple of TV projects and is also writing a book. Did you say “book?” Another celeb there was the author of that funny and fabulous relationship book, NEVER KISS A FROG: A Girl’s Guide to Creatures from the Dating Swamp. Oh… that’s ME, isn’t it? Okay, a little shameless self-promotion, so what’s wrong with that? I mean, it IS a hot book and so toadallysmart and savvy.
Now, back to Tommy Rays! Some of the other celebs enjoying the appetizers and party drinks: Dominic Comperatore, Matt Cedeno, Patrika Darbo, Kate Linder from “Young and the Restless,” and funny lady Judy Tenuta. I also met the svelte and beautiful Adrienne Janic
from TLC’s “Overhaulin.” Carolina Bacardi hosted this rockin’ “Party with Bacardi” by treating guests to special Bacardi mojitos and Voodoo Doll martinis.
Although it was party time tonight, you should stop by for lunch or dinner Monday thru Saturday, or for Sunday Brunch. Also, there’s a Happy Hour on Mon-Fri from 3-6 with free hors d’oeuvres!
Tommy Rays has an awesome menu. Tonight we sampled mini-crab cakes, tuna tartar, and teriyaki steak-on-a-stick with a mango sauce… all dee-lish. I’ll return soon to try out their “house favorites,” including a Wild Mushroom Trio, Potato and Onion Tart, and Spinach & Cheese Ravioli in a wild mushroom ragout. And if you’re into the beef experience, try their Boulevard Burger with all the fixin’s.
On their outdoor patio tonight, you could make your own s’mores with graham crackers, Hershey’s chocolate, and marshmallows. I loved them and asked if it was on their regular menu. Oops, “Sorry,” the waiter told me, “it’s a ‘specialty’,” but lots of other goodies can be 
found under their “Sweet Tooth” section on the menu. Mmmm… here are a few desserts that sound heavenly: Pumpkin Pot du Crème, Chocolate Lava Cake, and their “Snowball,” white chocolate marshmallow ice cream, rolled in toasted coconut, and served with chocolate syrup & macadamia nuts. Don’t start your diet until you get home!
Tommy Rays
12345 Ventura Blvd.
Studio City, CA 91604
818-506-2412
www.tommyrayscafe.com
Written by Marilyn Anderson
Movie Review – The Holiday. . .
The Holiday . . .
. . . is almost like an old-fashioned romantic comedy—and I mean that in a GOOD way! I’m not sure why, but I went with low expectations. I didn’t EXPECT to like this movie, but I was surprised. It was fun from beginning to end—and I mean “especially” to Jude Law’s end. (Okay, it’s a cheap shot – but I had to take it. He is so cute!) If truth be told, I was never a Jude Law fan before and didn’t understand why everyone made such a big deal about him. Perhaps I was remembering him from his other films where he often played the “bad” guy. But I never found him that handsome or sexy. Now, I have completely revised my thinking.
Jude Law was made for romantic comedy. He is handsome, charming, adorable, and PERFECT in this film. I heard several women in the theater discussing how he reminded them of a young Cary Grant. My boyfriend responded, “No, he’s BETTER than Cary Grant.” So… it’s not just a “girl thing.” Jude Law is fabulous and adorable in The Holiday.
Kate Winslet is also marvelous sans period clothing, for a change, and playing a contemporary girl, ditched and wounded. The two of them shine. Cameron Diaz is fun and Jack Black—well, it’s nice to see him finally get the girl in a movie, too.
The best part of The Holiday—other than Jude Law—is that there are surprises! Just when you think you know what’s going to happen, it turns out it’s something else, and something better than what you thought. Nancy Meyers, writer-director, has utilized show business as a background (a supposed no-no in the biz—but it works here—and works wonderfully). I love the parts where Cameron Diaz’s character, a movie trailer producer, sees and hears her life like a trailer. I could even have enjoyed more of these! That’s about all I’ll say about the plot. I like to go to a movie knowing nothing and letting the story completely unfold in front of my eyes, so I’m not telling any of it here. Suffice it to say, you’ll smile, you’ll chuckle, and you’ll enjoy! If you miss it at the theaters, get it on DVD!
Written by Marilyn Anderson
The Madewell Party Food, drink, clothes, and a movie – the perfect night for any girl!
The Madewell Party
Food, drink, clothes, and a movie – the perfect night for any girl!
Madewell, a new clothing store in Century City, had a super party for the holidays. The tasty goodies started before you even got in the door. Donuts, anyone? These were mini-fried doughnuts with a choice of toppings. You were questioned as you entered. Powdered sugar? Chocolate? Maple honey? Oreo Cookie? or Vanilla? What a fun way to start a bash—with a great dessert at the very beginning!
Inside the store, a deejay played as people milled around looking at the clothes, drinking green drinks and wine, and nibbling on a tasty selection of hors d’oeuvres. Everything from
little purple baked potatoes with caviar, ahi tuna on star crackers, basil & tomato tartlets with cheese, mini-turkey & cranberry jam biscuits, and salmon and crème fraiche on teeny potato pancakes. The appetizers kept flowing.
The clothes ran the gamut of conservative sweaters, jackets, and pants, to a lovely great-shade-of-blue dress, to some black & sexy see-through blouses—a terrific mix for various occasions.
Everyone who attended was invited to see a screening of “The Holiday.” Did they give out tickets? No. It wasbetter than tickets. About twenty minutes before we were to head to the movie, the Madewell ladies brought out bags of cool purple scarves. Then the whole party romped over to the theater, each person with a blaze of cool purple wrapped around his/her neck or flowing from his/her side. The movie—what can I say? Jude Law, Jude Law, Jude Law! He is sooooo cute. And he was “made” for romantic comedy. See the Review.
Meanwhile, check out the cool clothes at Madewell (JCrew’s sister brand) at the Westfield Shopping Mall in Century City.
Madewell
10250 Santa Monica Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90067
310-772-0428
www.madewell1937.com
Written by Marilyn Anderson
Dancing with the SENIOR Stars – Gotta Dance!
Dancing with the SENIOR Stars – Gotta Dance!
Who would pay money to see old ladies’ legs? That was the question posed by a skeptical critic when producer Riff Markowitz started “The Fabulous Palm Springs Follies” 16 years ago. The answer, as it turns out, is over two and a half million people from around the world!
“Gotta Dance!” is the title of the Follies sixteenth birthday edition, which runs until May 20, 2007. The Las Vegas-style extravaganza is a celebration of the music, dance, and comedy of the 30s and 40s, starring performers who have actually lived it! Guest starring in this edition of the Follies will be three legendary lady singers: Gogi Grant, Gloria Loring, and Mimi Hines.
Audiences are wowed by the Follies’ legendary Long-Legged Lovelies and Dapper Dandies, who, this season, range in age from 57 to 82! Their talent and showmanship prove that biological age is irrelevant when it comes to crowd-pleasing entertainment. Singers & dancers must be over 55 to audition, unlike Hollywood, where it seems they have to be under 25!
The music, choreography, and costumes are sensational. One of the most charming
segments is when the dancers—first the men, then the chorus girls—wearing magnificent sequined costumes with 10-foot-high feathered headdresses, introduce themselves and tell their ages! It’s endearing to “get to know them” and then watch in amazement as they dance gloriously across the stage. Collectively, the cast of 20 has quite an impressive background; they’ve danced on Broadway, in Paris and Tokyo; on stage, in television and movies; in the Folies Bergere, June Taylor Dancers, and Alvin Alley; and from 1924-2006!
Hank Brunjes, 74, trained at New York’s High School of Performing Arts, and appeared in the original Broadway productions of “West Side Story,” “Mame,” and “Chicago.”
Dick France, 77, was in the Mary Martin touring company of “Annie Get Your Gun” in 1948, and on Broadway with Shirley Jones in “Oklahoma!” He returns to the Follies for his fourth season after an absence of a year. Dick says, “I hated to miss the Follies last season, but quadruple coronary by-pass surgery got in the way… but now, I’m back!”
Glenda Guilfoyle, 73, is a single mother of seven children and grandmother of eight. She started dancing professionally at age 17 as a Radio City Music Hall Rockette.
Now in her eleventh season, the Follies’ oldest performer, Dorothy Kloss, is 82. She began dancing at three and throughout her career, starred in shows with a young Bob Fosse, Eddie Duchin, Liberace, Howard Keel, Mel Torme, and Frankie Lane.
But just because the performers are seniors, don’t think they “take it easy.” They do shows twice a day, 5 nights a week! And this is no laid-back, slow-paced show! There are three high-energy acts of fabulously costumed splendid singing and dancing, ending with a rousing patriotic finale. Interspersed between music numbers are various guest headliners. The show is produced and emceed by impresario Riff Markowitz, who recounts witty jokes and social commentary with a suave, charismatic style.
The Fabulous Palm Spring Follies is performed at the historic Plaza Theatre in downtown
Palm Springs. Built in 1936, the former movie theater was home to Bob Hope radio broadcasts, The Jack Benny Radio Show and live performances by Frank Sinatra and Gordon McCrae. Today you can go there and spend a marvelous evening of pure fun and enjoyment that will leave you smiling for days. So no matter how old—or young—you are, kick up your heels and dance your way over!
Fabulous Palm Springs Follies
128 South Palm Canyon Drive
Palm Springs, CA 92262
760-327-0225
www.psfollies.com
Written by Marilyn Anderson
Cool and Comfy in Rails
Cool and Comfy in Rails
And speaking of basic, newcomer Rails offers refined relaxation to anyone looking for cool and comfy additions to their leisure-wear wardrobe and dress-up-dress-down pieces. Designer Jeff Abrams launched Rails during summer 2006, proving that he most definitely knows a thing or two about form, fit, and feel. Because really, looking good doesn’t have to mean compromising your body into unflattering and uncomfortable pieces. (Wearing a style that feels awkward opens the door for a bad day anyway.) With delicate textured screen-print tees, super soft hoodies, simple sweaters, and boxy caps, Abrams’ no fuss spring 2007 collection includes unique styles for the likes of both men and women. Having quickly made its way on some of Hollywood’s most notables, such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Jessica Alba, Adrian Grenier, Ellen Pompeo, and Evangeline Lilly, Rails can be found in boutique favorites across the country. Think yummy shops like Kitson and Fred Segal. Growing up among a family of artists and holding degrees in political science and business, this 2001 U.C. Berkley grad eventually found his way to Europe after working several years at a major L.A. television studio, a job where he helped launch brands that targeted the same youth demographic that has inspired his direction withRails. And alas, as he worked three years in Italy, soaking in the influences of art and travel, all the while maintaining his desire to creatively explore a new area of interest, Abrams’ vision of this contemporary unisex line took ground. And over here at Agenda, we’re so glad it did.
A line that is influenced by European couture fashion and youthful Southern California lifestyle? And blended into a collection that captures a sophisticated spirit and carefree attitude all at once? Check it out. You’ll be all over it. Written by Elana Pruitt |
J.B. Hill Boots – A Well-Constructed Western Boot Never Goes out of Style
J.B. Hill – A Well-Constructed Western Boot Never Goes out of Style
J.B. Hill is a line of designer boots made with keen
J.B. Hill’s prices range from $688.00 to $4,810.00 retail. Compared to other designer brands like Back at the Ranch, whose price points can range anywhere from $1,500.00 – $5,000.00 a pair, or Lucchese, whose prices are firmly planted in the low budget $275.00 range, J.B. Hill seems to be the ticket for style, durability, comfort, and highest quality—the answer to off-the-rack, bland, conventional footwear for men and women today. There are a variety of designs to choose from, including alligator, calf top, lizard, kangaroo, and a host of other exotic skins. The stitching is made to last for years, and the styles are timeless while still setting the trends. The catalog presents a variety of styles, and each boot comes with the choice of several stitch patterns, heel and toe styles. They can also build belts to match your boot style. To ensure customer satisfaction, J.B. Hill even offers to send “fitter” boots in case any adjustments on their recent purchase(s) are needed.
Another popular boot-like shoe is the Mule. If you’re looking for that boot feel without the boot constriction, this could be the answer for you. Throw on a pair of Levis and slip into one of these comfortable styles. Traditionally, Mule styles are low-heeled boot-like clogs. And again, J.B. Hill crafts these with the finest leather and stitching. Prices range from $335.00 to $1,100.00 retail. To Learn more about J.B. Hill boots, visit their website atwww.jbhilltexas.com. They are located at 335 N. Clarke Drive, El Paso, TX 79905. Tel. (915) 599-1551. Call for store listings in your area. Written by Kaylene Peoples |
