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 charmingsegments 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 downtownPalm 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

Jersey Comes to San Francisco for the Holidays!

Jersey comes to San Francisco for the Holidays!

By Marilyn Anderson

The smash Broadway hit “Jersey Boys” is having its West Coast Premiere beginning December 1st at the Curran Theatre in San Francisco. “Jersey Boys” is the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons and how this group of blue-collar boys from the wrong side of the tracks became one of the biggest American pop music sensations of all time.

They wrote their own songs, invented their own sound, and sold 175 million records worldwide, all before they were thirty.  The familiar songs make audiences light up; there are lots of the Four Season’s greatest hits, such as “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Sherry,” Walk Like a Man,” and “Can’t Take My Eyes off You.”

But this musical is more than just a bunch of “Golden Oldies” strung together into a jukebox musical. It’s a rousing, drama-filled musical that won four 2006 Tony Awards, including Best Musical; and it continues to set weekly box office records at the August Wilson Theater on Broadway. The show was directed by two-time Tony Award winner Des McAnuff, written by Academy Award Winner Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice, with music by Bob Gaudio.  It runs at the SHN’s Curran Theater in San Francisco from December 1st – February 11th .

What a perfect holiday present:   A trip to San Francisco and tickets to this amazing show!  Tickets run from $30-$90 and can be purchased online at www.shnsf.com, through Ticketmaster, or at the Orpheum Theater Box Office.   Los Angeles audiences will also have the chance to see “Jersey Boys” at the Ahmanson Theatre, May 25th -August 5 th .

SHN’s other show is a pre-Broadway musical production of Tim Burton’s whimsical movie, “Edward Scissorhands.” This magical adaptation was devised, directed, and choreographed by Matthew Bourne.  It runs through December 10 th at SHN’s Orpheum, after which it comes to the Ahmanson Theatre in Los Angeles, running from December 12th – December 31st .

So make your plans to see some wonderful theater over the holidays and into the New Year.  It’s a present you can happily give to friends, to family —and don’t forget—yourself!

So have a Happy Holiday and head out to a great show!

Curran Theatre
445 Geary Street between Taylor and Mason
San Francisco, CA 94120
www.shnsf.com

Main Box Office
Orpheum Theatre Box Office
Corner of Hyde and Market at 8th Street
P.O. Box 7110
San Francisco, CA 94120

Ahmanson Theatre at the Music Center

135 N. Grand Ave.

Los Angeles, CA 90012

Tickets (213) 628-2772

www.centertheatregroup.org

Phone: 415-551-2000 (recorded information)

Sister Act Is a Class Act! At the Pasadena Playhouse until December 23rd

Sister Act Is a Class Act!

At the Pasadena Playhouse until December 23rd

By Marilyn Anderson

When I heard that the movie Sister Act had been turned into a musical, I thought it seemed like a good idea that would make a good show.   After going to the Pasadena Playhouse, I realize it was a “perfect” idea that makes a fantastic show!   The production sparkles with fun, zest, and disco!   The plot follows the movie religiously—pun intended—with humor and style.   Remember the story of trashy nightclub singer Dolores Carter, who witnessed her boyfriend kill a man?   She goes to the police, who put her in hiding as a nun in a failing convent.   While she and the Mother Superior continually butt heads, Dolores ends up leading the nun’s choir.

It’s a simple story that simply works!   Add to that the most marvelous songs with clever smile-inducing lyrics that never cease to amaze.   Composer Alan Menken and lyricist Glen Slater have created gem after gem; I can’t wait to get the CD and play it over and over!

The cast is terrific, belting out their numbers with skill and verve.   The nuns are great fun, particularly Amy K. Murray and Audrie Neenan.   When they do their first number, the show takes off and never stops.   The costumes are a big part of the show.   They’re fabulous and even funny, getting laughs just by being put on and taken off!    The direction, the choreography, the sets!   It all comes together perfectly, and it’s all capped (and I know I’m repeating it) with a collection of fantastic musical numbers with incredible lyrics.

Sister Act, the Musical is headed for Broadway, and I predict it will stay there a long time as an absolute treat for audiences.   So boogey on over to the Pasadena Playhouse for a religious experience that’s heavenly fun!

The show ends December 23rd—so see it before Christmas!

Pasadena Playhouse

39 South El Molino Avenue

Pasadena, CA 91101

Phone: (626) 356-7529
Fax: (626) 792-6142
email: boxoffice@pasadenaplayhouse.org

www.pasadenaplayhouse.org

www.sisteractthemusical.com

Sister Act, The Musical moves to the Alliance Theater at the Woodruff in Atlanta, Georgia, and runs from January 17 – February 25

www.alliancetheatre.org

Phone: (626) 356-7529

MAGICAL SHOW “SNOWS” ON LOS ANGELES

MAGICAL SHOW “SNOWS” ON LOS ANGELES

by Marilyn Anderson

“Slava’s Snowshow” is an internationally acclaimed theatrical experience that has its Los Angeles premiere over the holidays.  It’s a spellbinding show that blends the art of clowning with stunning spectacle and inspiring visual images and fantasy.  Filled with humor, poignancy, and imagination, it uniquely captures and entertains the child in all of us.

A veritable fantasia on snow – the evening includes everything from squirt bottles, giant beach ball balloons, blinding fog, miniature houses with tiny lights – and a sensational climax with a heart-stopping snowstorm that engulfs the entire audience.

The creator, Slava Polunin, was born in a small town in Russia, and spent his childhood in forests, fields, and by a river – enjoying every winter in a world of snow. His love of fantasy and whimsy led him to become a clown and then to found his own theater company, which moved clowning out of the circus, onto the streets, and then into the major theaters of the world.

“Slava’s Snowshow” has been seen by audiences in 25 countries and 80 cities around the world and is the winner of the Olivier Award in London for “Best Entertainment.” The show continues its third successful year off-Broadway in New York – and now has a limited run of 31 performances in Los Angeles – from Tuesday, December 12, 2006 – Sunday, January 7, 2007, at UCLA Live’s Royce Hall on the UCLA Campus.

Bring your children – or just your “inner child” – for a magical and joyous snow-filled holiday spectacular.

Slava’s Snowshow

Dec 12 – Jan 7, 2007

Evenings and Matinees

UCLA Live’s Royce Hall

Tickets:

Online at www.UCLALive.org

Phone at 310-825-2101

In person at UCLA Central Ticket Office

or at all Ticketmaster outlets.

$32-$68; Student Tix & Rush $15-$20

“Romance On the Road” – A Taste of Orange County

“Romance On the Road”

A Taste of Orange County

by Marilyn Anderson

What a fantastic time we had at all the places we went!  The Fairmont, Newport Beach was excellent: we loved the Gold Floor, and especially the Gold Lounge with their beautiful and delicious treats for breakfast and happy hour!  Going for “the Gold” gets you so much more at the Fairmont and is really worth the extra $80 during the week—or only $50 extra on the weekend.  You get free Internet, a gourmet breakfast in the Gold Lounge, beautiful and scrumptious hors d’oeuvres in the afternoon; and in the evening, the most exquisite and melt-in-your-mouth pastries.  Mmmmm…lemon-pomegranate mousse cake, tiramisu pastry, chocolate-raspberry tarts, and other decadent delights.

The restaurants we dined at were fabulous.  21 Oceanfront is a beautiful place, and we thoroughly enjoyed our dinner of surf and turf—i.e., I had the Cioppino, and Dennis had the rack of lamb.  Both were delicious!

Friday was fun at Disneyland—and Friday night was Nirvana!  The ambiance and meal at Catal Restaurant were both amazing.  They took such good care of us!   I loved the unusual selection on the menu—such a nice change from the typical.  We had an assortment of luscious appetizers and entrees.   Instead of “from soup to nuts,” it was “from escargots to oysters.”  And that’s just the starters.

My main course was an amazing combination of Russian scallops, agnoletti with braised pork, and brussel sprouts from heaven.  Dennis had paella, and the only thing that wasn’t perfect was that it was such a huge portion he couldn’t begin to finish it!  For dessert, we shared a trio of gelato and sorbet.  We were simply too full to try any of their other scrumptious-sounding treats.  I’ll just say it was all so good that I sent a party of 10 to dine there on Saturday night!

After the meal was our exciting and romantic flight with Gary Reeves in a single engine, four-seater plane at Sunset Flying. He was soooooo nice…and a great pilot.  The visibility was a little low before we went up.   In fact, I almost chickened out.  But I believe in the old saying, “Carpe Diem,” so I forgot my fear, and went up, up, and away in the plane.  It was incredible.  Gary was the best, explaining everything and being both so kind and so enthusiastic about flying.  We couldn’t go as far or as high as when visibility is good, but we did get to see the Disneyland fireworks from the window of the plane, as well as amazing views of the city below.  And guess what?  He even let me fly the plane a bit!  Whoooo-eee!

Oh, and on Saturday – we had massages at the Spa at The Island Hotel. D-I-V-I-N-E!   No other word describes it.  Both Dennis and I had masseuses with magic hands; and at the end of our massages, they served us champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries, dressed in little dark and white chocolate tuxedos!  (That’s going to be called a “Magical Moment” in our book!)

It was a grand little getaway that we will remember with joy.

This is all just a little taste of what we’ll be writing about Orange County in our book and blog, “Romance on the Road.”

Hug your honey on the holidays! xoxo — Marilyn

Marilyn & Dennis’s – RomanceOnTheRoad.com – to be launched in January 2007

DECK THE HALLS WITH BEADS & HOLLY – in NEW ORLEANS!

DECK THE HALLS WITH BEADS & HOLLY – in NEW ORLEANS!

By Marilyn Anderson & Dennis Lanning

New Orleans for the Christmas holidays! Why – you ask?  Isn’t it still under water?  Isn’t everything closed?  Isn’t it empty?  The answer is no, no and NO.  Instead, think go, go, and GO!

We went there recently – and WOW – it was the most fun we’ve had in an alligator’s age!  And when we hit Bourbon Street on Saturday night – it almost seemed like Mardi Gras – I can just imagine what the real Mardi Gras is like.

We were amazed at the crowds and excitement – and whole-heartedly joined in with wild abandon. At 9 PM a parade started down Bourbon Street with marching bands, clowns on stilts, folks in costumes and lots of smiling faces. Boosted by the NAR (National Association of Realtors) conventioneers in tow, thousands of revelers crowded through the French Quarter, dancing along with the parade and tossing beads this way and that – as people on the balconies above the street tossed even more beads downward.

Music blared from almost every doorway, attracting customers with shouts of “No Cover – No Minimum” as the festivities continued late into the night. We made sure to sample the music and drinks at a variety of spots. If you like Blues, Rock, or Soul—Bourbon Street is the place to be!

Food in New Orleans is fantastic. We love the Louisiana diet:  eat, eat and eat! There are lots of fried foods, of course—it’s a staple of southern cooking. But there is also plenty of fresh fish, vegetables and Cajun specialties that we find irresistible. Our resolution for the New Year – if you go to New Orleans, don’t start your diet until AFTER January 1st .

So here’s the holiday scoop for NOLA, as it now touts itself, standing for, obviously, New Orleans, LA.  Most hotels are open.  Most Bed & Breakfasts are open.  Most restaurants are open. Clubs are open.  Stores and attractions are open.  The people are friendlier than ever.  You’ll love them… and they’ll love you for coming and helping with the tourist revival of New Orleans.

One note of a serious nature to visitors:  Despite the joy of revitalization, the hurricane-damaged areas still cover a vast area. There is some effort being made at renewal, but overall the situation is sad.  It is highly recommended that you tour these areas for an awakening and remembrance, and to pay your respects to the lost souls who have moved on to another place. The tourist trade will help New Orleans and the people in it, so tell everyone you know to visit soon and often!

New Orleans is a wonderfully exciting and vibrant city, where everyone can let their hair down and lift their spirits up. So many things to do, places to go, and meals to eat!

So, don’t miss any of it – get your Santa to take you here for Christmas… and stay for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve.   Or make any day New Year’s Eve with a trip to this playfully decadent, spiritual, and alive city!

Here are some of the great things you can enjoy in New Orleans:

The Grand Victorian Bed and Breakfast

Located on St. Charles Street in the Garden district, a fun trolley ride slightly west of downtown, The Grand Victorian was designed and built in 1893 by New Orleans architect Thomas Sully. Several years ago it was lovingly restored by Bonnie Rabe, our gracious innkeeper.

This Victorian jewel features beautifully restored interior details, period furniture and an indefinable “warm and fuzzy” feeling, making your stay that much nicer. Amenities include free wi-fi for laptoppers, a house computer for checking your email if you left your laptop home, and an ample continental breakfast.

Our stay in the Nottoway Suite was reminiscent of apartment living in another era. Except we had such hi-tech niceties as a completely separate a/c system and a huge hot tub in the bathroom, features not normally found in your typical Victorian B & B. We were made to feel as comfortable as being at home. There are 8 rooms and suites, all named after the grand plantations that lined the Mississippi River, some of which still operate as tourist locations.

We can wholeheartedly recommend The Grand Victorian to anyone seeking lovely, comfortable, and reasonably priced accommodations. It would be a cozy and intimate setting for your Christmas Eve through New Year’s Day.

However, if B & B-ing isn’t for you, the city has thousands of rooms available at hotels in the French Quarter and downtown.

The Grand Victorian Bed and Breakfast

2727 St. Charles Ave.

New Orleans, LA 70130

800-977-0008

www.gvbb.com
The Court of Two Sisters

Justifiably renowned for their daily Jazz Brunch Buffet, this beautiful and friendly restaurant offers a sumptuous spread containing almost every edible concoction man can prepare.   In the morning, the buffet features made-to-order omelets, Eggs Benedict, sausage and bacon, grits and grillades, and shrimp and veggie pastas with a creamy Alfredo sauce.   The afternoon’s sampling includes Creole jambalaya, turtle soup, oysters Bienville, Duck a l’Orange, and Shrimp Etouffee.   There’s also a cornucopia of delectable cold salads and appetizers.

The desserts were in equal abundance:  pastries, fruit, cookies, ice cream, you name it.  We had to force ourselves to “suffer” through the Oreo Cookie cake and several brownies.  And we couldn’t leave without a taste of their unique “King Cake,” a colorfully iced coffee-cake ring symbolizing the Mardi Gras tradition.

But what makes this world-famous restaurant truly special are the romantic outdoor courtyard, attentive service, and musical trio that plays softly elegant New Orleans jazz while you dine.  We think you’ll agree… it’s a glorious place for a holiday feast!

The Court of Two Sisters

613 Royal Street

New Orleans, LA 70130

(504) 522-7261

www.courtoftwosisters.com

Acme Oyster House

We have never passed by this historic oyster bar when there wasn’t a line outside.  No matter, it moves fast and with other people chatting all around you, you’re seated in what seems like a flash.  Don’t like lines?  Walk right in and sit at the bar.

We like the small bar section in front of the “shuckers” – a friendly bunch of fun-loving guys who shuck and “plate” the oysters you are about to eat – and provide entertainment at the same time with a constant rap of amusing banter.

Mostly raw or fried favorites populate the Acme menu, but all is first rate. After a dozen raw, we opted for a dozen char-broiled. What a treat this dish is! Somehow they all “slide” down easily and taste delectable.   Dennis likes the raw ones and washes them down with Abita Amber, a Louisiana specialty beer – but I prefer them cooked.  Hmmm – this Christmas, instead of chestnuts roasting on an open fire… how about oysters!

Joey K’s

Heading up Magazine Street in the Garden District one night, we passed what looked like your typical neighborhood tavern. Except, this place was packed. Every table was full of happy faces downing beer from chilled, thick glass mugs and eating voraciously.  With a recommendation from a friend, we figured how we could go wrong?

The menu is standard diner fare but sprinkled with some specialties like Trout Tchoupitoulas.  There are Daily Blackboard specials like brisket, lamb shank, white beans with pork chops, or jambalaya. We sampled the pork loin special with green vegetables and the pan-fried trout topped with grilled veggies and shrimp.

Don’t expect gourmet fare here, but for a satisfying meal in a very pleasant atmosphere, Joey K’s is AOK!

Joey K’s Restaurant

3001 Magazine Street

New Orleans

(504) 891-0997

Table One

While just across the street from Joey K’s, this restaurant is miles away in style, ambiance, and menu.  Part of a family of locally owned restaurants, Table One is an ambitious attempt at gourmet greatness on the local level. It’s a beautifully designed space with both upstairs and downstairs dining and a long attractive bar area on the first floor.

The menu is limited, but Chef Gerard Maras has filled it with a variety of fresh tastes for almost anyone.  Unfortunately, the night we were there, they were out of several dishes, not specials, but standard menu items, which surprised us.

Almost filled up from non-stop eating for the past several days, we decided to share a few dishes between us.  First, we tried the Fresh Sea Scallops, with frisee, Belgian endive and Italian parsley, dressed with lemon verbena caper sauce. We had asked what “fried New England Style” meant, and our server assured us it meant they were sautéed in a pan, not deep fried.  Unfortunately, they came deep fried and were rather tasteless.

The salad of Bibb lettuce with roasted beets, fresh “fine herbs” and naval oranges, dressed with orange blossom vinaigrette was well presented and tasty, but not overly special.

Our entrée of duck with plum sauce and boiled apples was also well presented, with a nice-sized portion.   Our first few pieces of duck were excellent, tender, and perfectly done. But the remaining slices were tough and neither juicy nor tasty. We tried to imagine how some of the duck was so succulent and the rest… NOT.   Maybe it was on the run… hoping to escape being someone’s Christmas dinner-to-come.

The choice of wines by the glass were limited but well chosen. Although it didn’t end up being our favorite place, this restaurant deserves another try.

Table One

2800 Magazine Street (Cross Street: Washington Avenue)

New Orleans, LA 70115View Map

(504) 872-9035

Pizza on Magazine Street: Rocky’s and Reginelli’s

There are several Italian eateries as you roam along Magazine Street, and we visited two of them.

Rocky’s interior is mostly dark wood, with private booths and a variety of things hanging on the walls. There is an open kitchen and you can watch them create your own pizza.

They have an extensive selection of “gourmet” pizzas and we ordered a Cajun Pizza with loads of seafood sitting on top.   Other originals include the Muffaletta pizza and the wild Tchoupitoulas with pepperoni, Italian sausage, red peppers and jalapenos. The menu also includes focaccia sandwiches, salads and pastas.

We thoroughly enjoyed the comfort, quality and care that the young college-type pizza pros served us.   We left with smiles and full stomachs, and highly recommend this local stop.

While Rocky’s is more of your old-fashioned pizza parlor, just up the street is a new, more stylish retro-deco eatery called Reginelli’s Pizzeria.

With bright pastel colors and oddly shaped tables, this is the newer, hipper version of Pizza “Parlorology.” Cool and comfortable, we ordered salads, pizzas and drinks and were more than pleasantly surprised with our meal. Our great surprise came when Dennis asked for a glass of Abita amber and got a full pitcher for $2!

Neighborhoods need little places like this, where the tables are full of young people enjoying life and getting the best in foods. As satisfying as our meal was, our server made it even better.

Waitress Stephanie was as fresh as a daisy and sweet as the tiramisu. She loved helping us and accompanied every trip to our booth with a smile and desire to be helpful. Recently graduated from Indiana University, she had planned to move to Los Angeles, but came to NOLA instead by accident. I think her mistake was fortuitous. She loves New Orleans and makes her customers feel extra welcome.

Rocky’s Gourmet Pizza Reginelli’s Pizzeria
3222 Magazine Street 741 State Street at Magazine Street
New Orleans, LA 70115 New Orleans, LA 70118
504.891.5152 504.899.1414

Café du Monde

High on your list of not-to-miss NOLA landmarks should be this historic spot in the French Quarter. Open 24/7 and bustling every one of those hours, this is the ultimate fried dough (called Beignets here, not donuts) and java house in the city. Since 1862, Café du Monde has been pleasing locals and tourists alike with its Beignets (fried, rectangle-shaped doughnuts covered in powdered sugar) and cafe au laits. Also available are fresh-squeezed orange juice, regular and chocolate milk, hot chocolate and soft drinks. Sit on the patio or indoors and watch the world go by. You’ll love the laid back atmosphere and white-jacketed servers working their way around the crowded tables – no matter how late at night or early in the morning it is.   A great stop for some more sweets and coffee after all that New Year’s Eve partying!

Cafe du Monde

800 Decatur Street at St. Ann Street

New Orleans, LA 70116-3306

(504) 581-2914

The Funky Pirate

Blues, blues and BLUES!   We love the blues – and try to find the best clubs in every city we visit.   We actually discovered The Funky Pirate on a pre-Katrina trip several years ago.   So we were absolutely thrilled to find it was still here – along with their main blues-belting guy – Big Al Carson.

From the outside, this club doesn’t look much different than all the other dark, smoky, music joints on Bourbon Street.   It’s when you step inside and capture the image of Big Al sitting ruefully on a huge chair, filling every inch of the room with a haunting blues sound, that you know you have found heaven.

He is the essence of the blues musician, digging deep into his 550 pounds of soul, and mesmerizing everyone within hearing range. You can dance or just listen – but don’t miss this place when you come to New Orleans.

Funky Pirate

727 Bourbon Street

New Orleans, LA 70116View Map

(504) 523-1960

Editorial Description

Pat O’Brien’s

This bar experience is all about fun. Any one of the taverns in the FrenchQuarter can pour a pint, but Pat O’Brien’s pours more, much more. We spent our time at the Piano Bar, directly across from the people-packed Main Bar, where talented singers belt out tunes like home runs in a fun and pleasing way. It’s a party as everyone participates in the mayhem, and you forget about going anywhere else. It’s no wonder that the line for this venue often goes around the block, but the wait is worth it.  A highlight of the Patio is the flaming fountain, a unique water fountain with fire emerging from its center. Don’t forget to take a picture; your sweetie will love the romantic gesture.   Or, like we did, ask a waiter to snap a photo of the two of you enjoying a holiday hug.

Pat O’Brien’s Bar

718 St. Peter Street

New Orleans, LA 70116
504.525.4823

www.patobriens.com

Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro

We didn’t get to Snug Harbor, but friends of ours went there to seeCharmaine Neville, cousin of Aaron Neville, perform. She’s among the many New Orleans talents who regularly grace the stage, including Ellis Marsalis, Astral Project, and Jesse McBride.

It has a reputation as the city’s most prestigious jazz club, and includes three sectons:  a cozy restaurant with candlelit tables; a bar area; and a performance club with seating on two levels.   Apparently, a lot of young jazz musicians frequent the place – and bring their instruments, ready to jump up on the stage at a moment’s notice.  Next time we visit, we’ll be sure to check it out.  How about making a date to meet us there!

Snug Harbor

626 Frenchmen StreetNew Orleans, LA 70116

504.949.0696

info@snugjazz.com

Celebration Tours

This company offers a variety of city tours in a 12-passenger van.  We took the Katrina Recovery Tour, and learned a lot from our driver and guide, Ozzie Laporte.  He knows and loves his city, and you can sense the concern in his voice as the tour winds its way through the French Quarter and away from the now-lively downtown, to the outer sections known to millions of TV viewers as the Lower 9th Ward and 17th Street Canal.

Here, the devastation of 16 months ago is a daily reminder of the worst natural disaster to ever hit the United States. We were stunned by the scope of damage and destruction levied on these areas. Approximately 200,000 evacuees of the storm have not returned to the city; and seeing these areas, you will understand why.  From here, we were taken back to see the other active sections of the city.  Ozzie’s colorful narrative told all about the history of each site we passed, and helped us understand and enjoy the background and beauty of New Orleans.

We recommend this tour to see the progress New Orleans has made in just one year.  It’s a tale of two cities.  You see the devastated areas, then go to the uptown area and the Garden District, ultimately ending with a positive look at one of the most unique cities in the world – New Orleans!

Celebration Tours

1229 St. Thomas Street

New Orleans, LA 70130

Toll-Free: (888) 587-7115

Phone: (504) 587-7115

www.celebrationtoursllc.com

Other attractions in or near NOLA:

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas

Audubon Zoo

Beuregard-Keys House

Blain Kern’s Mardi Gras World

Cajun Pride Tours

Destrehan Plantation

Hermann-Grima House

House of Blues

Laura: A Creole Plantation

Louisiana Children’s Museum

Louisiana State Museum-New Orleans

The Ogden Museum of Southern Art

Save Our Cemeteries

Van Benthuysen-Elms Mansion

…. And many, many more!

Hat’s Off … No, “Hats On” at Beach Blanket Babylon!

Hats Off … No, “Hats On” at Beach Blanket Babylon!

What do President Bush, Mr. Peanut, and the Village People have in common? They are all hilariously spoofed in the outrageously camp musical revue – Steve Silver’s Beach Blanket Babylon . This wonderful and zany San Francisco cabaret show is world famous for its extravagant costumes and outlandishly big hats.

I saw it a year ago, but when I went back to the marvelous City by the Bay last month, I simply had to see it again.   I’m not the only one who returns for the laughs and fun. Many in the audience that night were “repeaters” or friends of people who recommended the show to them. Even Britain’s Royal Family has succumbed to its charms. The Queen of England and Prince Phillip saw it in 1983, and just a few months ago Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall went and joined the cast for the Curtain Call!

And just like Charles, Camilla, and me – you are in for a Royal treat every time you go.   While the show has been running for over 30 years, it is revised frequently, sometimes even weekly, to reflect current events and pop culture.

The loose plot revolves around Snow White’s quest for a boyfriend.   Her search is accompanied by topical parodies of music from the 60s and 70s.   On her way, she encounters everyone from Bill and Hilary Clinton, Paris Hilton, Kirstie Alley, Madonna, Condoleeza Rice, John Travolta, Elvis Presley, Demi & Ashton, and anyone who’s been in the news lately.

The multi-talented cast is headed by Val Diamond, who has spent 27 years with Beach Blanket Babylon . Her powerful presence, strong voice, and perfect comedy timing keep the audience roaring whenever she’s on stage.

The outstanding costuming of “BBB” goes to new heights with its hats. Almost like characters themselves, the hats are exceptionally funny and magnificently constructed. Among the biggest hats on any stage anywhere, some weigh up to 300 lbs.

Tina Turner’s layered hair is 4 ft. high; Oprah has a book emerging from her structured hairstyle. One of the favorites is the hat of the San Francisco Skyline.   Another towering millinery treat comes at the end of the show when Snow White finally finds her man.   Her guide, Val, comes out sporting a huge Wedding Cake Headdress that opens up and reveals…. oops, sorry, can’t tell you everything – you’ll have to go see it to find out!

It all takes place at Club Fugazi, a 393-seat theater located in the North Beach district on a street aptly named “Beach Blanket Babylon Boulevard!” You can order drinks before the show, but you don’t need libations to keep you smiling, laughing, and feeling good all night!

Reviewed by Marilyn Anderson

See more pictures

Beach Blanket Babylon –

Club Fugazi

678 Beach Blanket Babylon Blvd at Columbus

San Francisco

415.421.422

www.beachblanketbabylon.com

Five Fab Femmes Make “9 to 5” Fantastic Fun!

Five Fab Femmes Make “9 to 5” Fantastic Fun!

Written by Marilyn Anderson

“9 to 5: The Musical,” which opened September 9th at the Ahmanson Theatre, is based on the hit 1980 comedy movie Nine to Five, starring Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin and Dolly Parton.  Staying true to the original story, the show revolves around three secretaries in a male-dominated company, who decide to get revenge on their tyrannical, misogynistic boss.

The world premiere musical is a dynamic, fun-filled production that comes to life onstage, highlighting the talents of five fabulous ladies.  Dolly Parton, who starred in the original movie and also wrote the lead Grammy-winning song, “Nine to Five,” has written both the music and lyrics for the stage version.  Parton composed some twenty new songs, everything from rousing production numbers to a romantic ballad.  The musical’s book was written by Patricia Resnick, who co-wrote the screenplay for the movie.

Gracing the stage in the current version are three multi-talented lead actresses.  Allison Janney, best known for her Emmy award-winning role in TV’s “West Wing,” appears in the part originally played by Lily Tomlin.  Janney is perfect as the smart, strong Violet, ringleader of the secretarial pool.  She’s both commanding and endearing throughout,whether barking orders in her office clothes, singing and strutting in a white man-tailored suit for a sensational number, “One of the Boys,” or sashaying about in an amusing cartoon sequence where she’s dressed like Snow White. Behind her, the large digital screen shows animated singing bluebirds ala a fairy tale.

Filling Dolly Parton’s shoes (or her bra!) had to be a challenge; but actress Megan Hilty is an ideal fit, contributing her own delightful charm and powerful singing voice.  As Doralee, she delivers her fetching femininity with a lilt and a country twang, most notably in the song “Backwoods Barbie.” Rounding out the threesome is Stephanie J. Block, who plays Judy, the office “newbie,” the role originated by Jane Fonda in the movie.  Block brings down the house with her song, “Get Out and Stay Out.”

In a supporting role, Kathy Fitzgerald is a hoot as Roz, the office snitch.  Her musical number, “5 to 9” (so named for the hours afterand before work), in which she professes her love for the boss, is a clever and fun switch on the “9 to 5” theme.

Another standout of the production is the set design. The audience is treated to a myriad of moving sets that contribute to the show’s excitement.  Somewhat disappointing, though, is the harness scene with the lecherous boss, Hart, played ably by Marc Kudisch.  Similar to the gag in the movie, when revealed on stage, it doesn’t seem quite special enough.

Along with the five fab femmes, three “super” men were instrumental in bringing “9 to 5: The Musical” to the stage: Robert Greenblatt, producer; Joe Mantello, director; and Andy Blankenbuehler, choreographer.

Continuing the recent trend of turning movies into musicals, “9 to 5” is a natural. Now 28 years after its debut, this farcical fantasy about women in the workplace still works . . . and works wonderfully!

The production is on its way to Broadway, where it is set to open at the Marriott Marquis Theatre in April 2009.  My recommendation is to catch the pre-Broadway world premiere in Los Angeles.  It runs until October 19th at the Ahmanson Theatre.

So be sure to take some play time away from your 9 to 5 schedule to see “9 to 5: TheMusical.” This is one new show where you will definitely come out singing the title song!

“9 to 5: The Musical”
Sept 9 – Oct 19, 2008

Center Theatre Group
Ahmanson Theatre at the Music Center
135 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90012
213-628-2772 www.Centertheatregroup.com

ROMANCE ON THE ROAD – Phoenix Arizona

Marilyn Anderson’s

ROMANCE ON THE ROAD

PHOENIX, ARIZONA

Airfares too high? Tired of Vegas? Think of Phoenix, Arizona, for your next staycation. You don’t have to go far for an absolutely fun-filled, culturally rich and relaxing vacation… still relatively close to home. Phoenix has all kinds of unique and wonderful places to visit. We started with one of the most exciting…

THE BOB BONDURANT SCHOOL OF HIGH PERFORMANCE DRIVING

This high speed driving school is just about the coolest place I’ve ever visited. Guys, it’s your dream spot. Women, if you want to get your honey a present he’ll never forget, send him there for a 4-day course. C’mon, if the truth be told, most women know that whether a guy is 18 or 80, he loves racing in a car!

The owner, Bob Bondurant, was a professional race car driver in the 1960s. After he was paralyzed in an accident, doctors told him he’d never walk again. But they were wrong. Later, when he got up out of the wheelchair, he decided to start a driving school.

The classes are a favorite for men of all ages … and women, too. On our visit, I watched as the students climbed into their finely tuned Corvettes ready to take on the winding curves of the course, at something like 100 miles per hour!

After our walking tour of the facilities, the guide turned to

me: “So, Marilyn, how’d you like to go for some hot laps?

“Hot laps?” I asked. “What’s that?”

“Laps around our track with one of our race car instructors.”

Me, a passenger in a race car? Duh, I don’t think so! I must tell you I have never been into speed. I’m the person who stays in the far right lane of the freeway, and gets a ticket for going 20 miles underthe speed limit! And I’m even more nervous when I’m in the passenger seat.

My boyfriend, Dennis, cajoled me. “C’mon Mar, you can do it.” I thought a beat, and realized… Hey, I’m on vacation. I may be scared, but I’m no wuss. This is something I HAVE to do!

So still shaking my head no… in fact my whole body shaking no, I don a full-face crash helmet and head out to the pit area. The driver, Dave, zips up in a sleek yellow Corvette and comes to a screeching stop. Dennis opens the door for me. As I climb into the passenger seat, I hit my head on the door and then mumble a silent little prayer. Dave revs the engine. And we take off. Zzzzzzoooooom!

He hits the curves, the tires slide. I’m holding onto to the sides for dear life. It reminds me of my most hated ride as a child,the Wild Mouse. The car zigs one way, zags the other, whizzes, whooshes and zips like a rocket. As we careen back toward the starting point, Dave asks if I want to continue for a second lap. “No, that’s okay, once around was great!” He pulls the Corvette to a stop.

I get out and head over to Dennis, feeling a tad cocky and enormously proud of myself. Then, he tells me I wasn’t supposed to have my eyes closed!

Dennis took his turn next. I watched as the car zipped around through the hairpin turns. Geez, did I just do that? Yikes! Dennis had bragged to me that he used to race cars when he was younger. So this was no big deal for him. But you know what? When he stepped out of the car, he looked “greener” than I did. He even confessed to me he almost tossed his cookies! You can bet I didn’t let him live that one down!

The Bondurant School has many different choices for classes,two hours; one-day; two-day; three or four days, depending on the skill level you seek. If you want to start a little slower, they have “Go Kart” school, too. And there are special courses for teens as well.

As we left the building, I glanced at the photos on the wall. Some of the celebs that have taken classes include Paul Newman, Tom Cruise, Candace Bergen, Clint Eastwood, Paris Hilton, Nick Lachey, Jim Beluschi, David Hasselhoff, Ice Cube and many more. And maybe when you go… you’ll see a photo of that other famous High Speed Dare Devil… Marilyn Anderson!

THE BOB BONDURANT SCHOOL OF HIGH PERFORMANCE DRIVING

20000 S Maricopa Rd

Gate 3

Chandler, AZ 85226

800-842-RACE

www.bondurant.com

***

After you return from your high speed driving course you’ll definitely want to relax. I recommend enjoying a fabulous treatment and massage at one of Phoenix’s wonderful spas…

AJI SPA

SHERATON WILD HORSE PASS RESORT AND SPA

The 17,500 square foot Aji Spa is named from the Pima Indian word for “sanctuary.” It features 17 treatment rooms, salon, fitness center, watsu pool, and services with a Native American flavor. Their one-of-a-kind treatments are developed from ancient rituals, including red clay from the Gila River, Cholla cactus, and Blue Coyote. The Aji Spa is a tranquil and sacred spot of awesome beauty that will soothe all your stress and cares away.

Across a path from the spa is the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort. This 500-room AAA Four Diamond hotel was designed to be an authentic representation of the Gila River Indian Community’s heritage and culture. As such, it offers guests both inspirational and educational experiences. The architecture, design, art, and legends of the Pima and Maricopa tribes are celebrated in every detail of the hotel, indoors and out.

And if you hate those new airline luggage charges….

The new Love Your Luggage package at theSheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa reimburses guests for airline luggage fees. Resort guests who show proof of a luggage charge will be reimbursed $25 per person, up to $50 per guest room. SHERATON WILD HORSEThe Love Your Luggage package includes one night in a traditional guest room and is valid through Dec. 31, 2008. The package rate starts at $169, exclusive of tax and gratuity.

SHERATON WILD HORSE PASS RESORT AND SPA

5594 West Wild Horse Pass Boulevard
Chandler, Arizona 85226
602-225-0100

www.wildhorsepassresort.com

* * *

TOCALOMA SPA

POINTE HILTON AT TAPATIO CLIFFS

From the Spanish phrase “touching the hills,” theTocaloma Spa offers a wide variety of therapies using ingredients indigenous to the Southwest, many provided by Mother Nature herself. Guests are sure to leave thoroughly relaxed and revitalized. Tocaloma was named among the Top 10 Spas in Arizona for outstanding service.

The spa is located at the Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort,which recently underwent a $25 million dollar renovation. Nestled into the rugged terrain of Phoenix North Mountain, about 20 minutes from the airport, this resort is a particularly good spot to go when traveling with children.

Why? The Falls Water Village ! Simply put, kids will love this three-acre oasis of waterfalls, streams and gardens, including a138-foot slide flume known as The Pointe Plunge! While they are happily splashing and screaming with joy, you can be lolling in one of the cabanas, swimming in the main pool with its lap lanes and fountain centerpiece, or relaxing in the grotto pool.

If, in addition to swimming, you like swinging a club, there’s the Pointe Hilton Golf Academy at the Lookout Mountain Golf Club. The flagship school is now celebrating its tenth season.

The Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort is an all-suites resort, which makes it perfect for families or business trips.

POINTE HILTON TAPATIO CLIFFS RESORT

11111 North 7th Street

Phoenix, Arizona 85020

800-947-9784

www.pointehilton.com/indextc.cfm

* * *

For another incredible treat, take a HOT AIR BALLOON Ride…

HOT AIR EXPEDITIONS

We started the morning at 4 a.m., heading out to the base area for our sunrise balloon flight. Surprisingly, I wasn’t at all nervous about going “up, up, and away.” There were three balloons to go up in our group, which included several couples and some families with children.

It was much tamer than I expected – almost no feeling of motion as we drifted high above the desert. “A magic carpet ride” and “riding on a cloud” are two phrases that best describe the beauty, exhilaration and gentleness of ballooning . The balloons travel at speeds of about 5 to 6 miles per hour (just a tad slower than the race cars at the Bondurant School!).

We quickly rose up over 5,000 feet. Yes, a mile off the ground in a straw basket. It was exhilarating! I could see for miles with a 360-degree view, and it was fun to look down at the desert life below. Our pilot pointed out jack rabbit, quail, roadrunner, coyote, and other desert animals. Then, as we descended, we floated within inches of trees and cacti.

For me, the most exciting part was the landing.  Instead of the “perfect landing” we expected from the calm air, our basket was buffeted by the hot air and actually tipped over on its side, eliciting lots of nervous smiles and anxious laughter from everyone.

After regaining our “land legs,” we were served strawberries and champagne in flutes while a sumptuous, gourmet breakfast was set up picnic style, with linens and china. It was a beautiful desert experience,absolutely cool,and since it was summer, only 102 degrees in the shade!

HOT AIR EXPEDITIONS

2243 E. Rose Garden Loop

Phoenix, AZ 85024

800-831-7610

www.hotairexpeditions.com

* * *

Cultural and Educational Attractions :

THE WRIGLEY MANSION

Built in 1932 by chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr. as a 50 th wedding anniversary gift for his wife, Ada, the mansion is one of five Wrigley homes. It cost $1.2 million to build and remained the largest private residence in the state until the early1960s. The mansion was named “La Colina Solana,” the sunny hill, because of its dramatic view of the Valley of the Sun, downtown Phoenix, and Camelback Mountain.

Used by the couple as a winter cottage, the 16,850 square foot mansion has 24 rooms, 12 bathrooms and was the smallest of the Wrigley homes. Today much of the original art work remains intact. The residence features art deco tiles, stuccoed structural clay tile walls, balconies, terraces and 11 fireplaces.

In 1992, George Hormel, an heir to the Hormel meat packing family, purchased the mansion, now known as the Wrigley Mansion Club. His main goal was to preserve the landmark. He restored the grounds and gardens to the Wrigley’s 1930’s style. It now operates as a private club with dues at $10 per year, which are donated to charity. Tours operate Wednesday thru Saturday at 10am and 3pm.

The Wrigley Mansion is a great place for meetings, weddings and other events. Its signature restaurant and lounge,Geordie’s, also features brunch, dinner and live music on the weekends.

THE WRIGLEY MANSION

The Wrigley Mansion

2501 E. Telawa Trail

Phoenix, AZ 85016

602-955-4079

www.wrigleymansionclub.com

DESERT BOTANICAL GARDEN

The world’s largest collection of desert plants in a natural setting is a must-see. This exquisite garden features thousands of thriving desert plants and wildflowers set throughout five thematic trails with more than 60 interactive exhibits.

DESERT BOTANICAL GARDEN

1201 N. Galvin Pkwy

Phoenix, AZ 85008

480-941-1225

www.dbg.org

HEARD MUSEUM

This is an internationally recognized and world-renowned museum showcasing Native American fine art and culture for 75 years.

HEARD MUSEUM

2301 N. Central Ave.

Phoenix, AZ 85004

602-252-8840

www.heard.org

PHOENIX ART MUSEUM

The largest art museum in the Southwest hosts international exhibitions and features more than 16,000 works in its collection. Emphasis is on American, Asian, European,Latin American, Modern and Contemporary, and Western American art, plus Fashion Design and the Thorne Miniature Rooms of historic interiors.

PHOENIX ART MUSEUM

1625 N. Central Ave.

Phoenix, AZ 85004

602-257-1880

www.phxart.org

ARIZONA SCIENCE CENTER

With more than 300 hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, a state-of-the-art planetarium, and a giant-screen theater, the Arizona Science Center is great for kids and is a fun, informal way for them to learn about science.

ARIZONA SCIENCE CENTER

600 E. Washington,

Phoenix, AZ 85004

602-716-2000

www.azscience.org

TALIESIN WEST

Frank Lloyd Wright’s desert masterpiece is a must-see. In late 1937, Wright purchased land in northeast Scottsdale, Arizona, where he and his young apprentices took on the task of buildingTaliesin West as a winter “camp.” The school is still in full force and guided tours are offered daily of this architectural wonder. Some of the highlights are the Cabaret Theater and Screening Room, Wright’s private office, and the Cove Entrance of his private relaxing room.

TALIESIN WEST

Cactus Rd. and Frank Lloyd Blvd.

Scottsdale, AZ 85261

480-860-2700

www.franklloydwright.org/index.cfm?section=tour&action=taliesinwest

PUEBLO GRANDE MUSEUM AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK

Visitors can experience a prehistoric Hohokam ruin, see an ancient ballpark, andexperience fascinating exhibits, featuring the ancient Hohokam, archaeology and Southwest themes.

PUEBLO GRANDE MUSEUM AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK

4619 E. Washington St.

Phoenix, AZ 85034

602-495-5645

www.phoenix.gov/parks/pueblo.htmL

CHALLENGER SPACE CENTER

The mission of the Challenger Space Center is to inspire, excite and educate people of all ages about the mysteries and wonders of space, science, and the universe in which welive.

The Center hosts fun-filled family evenings featuring space-themed events and games, along with entertaining and interactive stargazing programs using high-powered telescopes.

CHALLENGER SPACE CENTER

21170 N. 83 rd Avenue

Peoria, AZ

623-322-2001

www.azchallenger.org

MILL AVENUE DISTRICT

Downtown Tempe, Arizona

An historic street and the heart of Tempe, this area is always rockin’, especially on weekends. There are dozens of restaurants, coffeehouses, dance clubs, shops and boutiques all within walking distance. It’s a fun, lively, typical college-town area. Mill Avenue is also the site of many local street festivals.

This is located one mile east of Priest Dr., one mile west of Rural Rd., and takes up the area from University Dr. to Rio Salado Pkwy

MILL AVENUE DISTRICT

Mill Avenue at University

Tempe, AZ

www.downtowntempe.com/Maps.aspx

* * *

FINE ARTS AND THEATRES

ORPHEUM THEATRE

203 W. Adams St.

Phoenix, AZ

602-252-9678

This beautiful Spanish Baroque Revival playhouse, built in 1929, once hosted Mae West and W.C. Fields. It is now a popular performing arts venue.

HERBERGER THEATER CENTER

222 E. Monroe

Phoenix AZ 85004

602-252-8497

The Herberger Theater Center is a two-stage complex featuring year-round music, drama, and dance performances presented by five resident professional performing companies.

* * *

And Phoenix is definitely GOING GREEN…

When you order French fries at the Fairmont Scottsdale , you are helping improve the environment in Phoenix. As part of its Green Partnership program, the Fairmont Scottsdale has launched an initiative to convert its kitchen grease into one of the world’s fastest-growing alternative fuels: biodiesel.

Partnering with local manufacturer AZ BioDiesel , the Fairmont Scottsdale will help to prevent more than 100,000 pounds of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere with the new program. By collecting more than 700 gallons of used cooking oil from the resort’s kitchens each month, AZ BioDiesel will be able to create nearly 600 gallons of biodiesel – enough to power seven diesel vehicles for a year.

For information about the Green Partnership at Fairmont Hotels, visitwww.fairmont.com/environment. And to help with the program yourself, nibble on their tasty French Fries!

* * *

Marilyn Anderson’s Never Kiss a Frog: A Girl’s Guide to Creatures from the Dating Swamp

“Someday my prince will come. What a romantic thought! And like millions of little girls, I grew up believing it. Why? Simply because I loved fairytales.”

-Marilyn Anderson, Author

Marilyn Anderson is an author, playwright, dating expert, spokeswoman, comedian, bio-chemist, and founder of Frogaholics Anonymous.  Her book, Never Kiss a Frog, has made quite an impact on single women everywhere. People have named her the “dating guru.” And she has offered dating advice to Complete Woman, and Teen People Magazine.

Since writing her book, Marilyn has been interviewed on several talk shows, and she has appeared on “Extreme Makeover” as a dating expert. Her popularity from her book, Never Kiss a Frog, hit a familiar nerve with both men and women worldwide.  It is now published in several languages. Marilyn boasts that Never Kiss a Frog has even been pirated. (To her chagrin, she actually prefers the pirated version). Since the book’s popularity in 2003, Anderson has been in the process of writing part two, Never Kiss a Frog Again.

What makes Marilyn an authority?

“I’ve been single forever. I’ve dated the rich and the homeless, the tall and the pygmy, the tan and the albino. I’ve met frogs on beach towels and ski lifts, in supermarkets and meat markets. I’ve met them on park benches, bench-pressing, and one who was pressing his pants. Once, my hairdresser’s gynecologist gave my number to a man on a passing gurney! Oh yeah, I’ve had blind dates and bland dates. The only date I haven’t had is a wedding date.”

While reading Marilyn’s book, I laughed so hard at her hilarious dating mishaps and ironic truths. I honestly don’t know one woman who hasn’t bought into the myth that if you kissed enough frogs, one of them might eventually become a prince. Or maybe somewhere in this world there is a prince disguised as a frog. I can recall recent conversations with my female friends, telling them not to be so critical of what Marilyn describes as frogs, and to give their poor toads a chance. But just as my mother and grandmother did, I too am guilty of passing down this perverse falsehood that maybe a frog could turn into a prince.

In Marilyn’s book, there are a plenty of examples of frogs. Anderson manages to add a comical tone, along with the unflattering comparisons, to the wart-infested reptile. She came up with several interesting, yet disturbingly true, descriptions for each type of frog we should definitely avoid, and the list is very long.

First, there is the Long-Term-Go-Nowhere Frog. This wart-infested undesirable is afraid of commitment, yet he will continue to string you along until only you are strong enough to break it off. I have experienced that frog before—more than once in my lifetime. Marilyn gives an example of how she and her boyfriend hung out for years but never really had a commitment.

“This kind of relationship is dangerous, because you can get lulled into a false sense of security, and your best years are wasted.”

Another one of Anderson’s frogs I dated was the Really-Nice-Guy-But-Really-Bad-Kisser Frog. How many of those did I encounter when I was single? There were too many to count. The other frogs consist of Horny Toads, Mama’s Frogs, the Flattery Frog, Obsessed-With-His-Body Frog, and the list continues to grow.

When it comes to self-help dating books, I am a veteran; I’ve read the gamut:Maybe He’s Just a Jerk; Women Men Love, Women Men Leave; Men Who Can’t Love; Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus; Ten Stupid Things Women Do to Mess Up Their Lives; The Sensual Woman, etc.; yet I am by no means an expert on the subject. If I were, you would think I could have gotten it right eventually. But just like a-hard-to-rid tick, dating for me was more a knee-jerk reaction, not the satisfying, potentially pleasant experience I was promised. Instead, it was a horrible journey from which I barely survived.

Never Kiss a Frog brings everything into perspective. Marilyn Anderson’s cute little quips make light of an otherwise arduous, and in my opinion, overrated, outdated ritual. I asked Anderson how she was able to identify these frogs so easily. She stated that she dated most of them. Then again, who hasn’t dated a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Frog, or even a Toadal Makeover? I wish this book had been handy when I was dating amphibians. I must have kissed at least a few dozen frogs myself. Damn that book The Frog Princess. This fairytale by Sondra Eklund is about a princess who meets a frog, kisses him and breaks a witch’s spell.  The frog transforms into a handsome prince. They marry and live happily ever after. That one book may have single-handedly caused even the most rational women to act irrationally when it comes to dating. And Marilyn thinks the fairytale is the most likely suspect responsible for today’s dating woes.

During our interview, Anderson also pointed out that part of meeting the right guy is about making the right choices. But how does a girl recognize a frog? That has been a burning question for centuries. From Casanova to Henry the Eighth, women didn’t stand a chance back then, and we can barely survive the dating swamp now. With the abundance of dating books out there, sifting through the mire can be a complicated, time-consuming, icky job. Luckily, Marilyn’s Never Kiss a Frog simplifies the process for us. She explains in detail which frogs we must avoid.

The book’s packaging is very clever, too. The artwork was deliberate on Marilyn’s part. Resembling a pamphlet, the cartoon frog ne’er-do-wells appeal to a surprisingly wide audience, ranging from pre-pubescent girls—to fed-up divorcees—to single moms. If pre-teens memorized Anderson’s book before they turned sixteen, they might just escape the horrors the past generations endured.

Even though Marilyn Anderson’s book is an easy read (it took me less than an hour to get through it), don’t be fooled.  There are pearls of wisdom jumping off her double-spaced ninety-six-page book. I advise all single women to keep this “reference guide” close at hand. You never know when you’re going to need to quickly identify a frog.  Anderson even guides those women who are not sure whether or not they are actually dating a frog. She has various hilarious sections to help you remove all your doubts. She has footnotes disguised as cooking recipes.  She even devised an adorable frog family album with disturbingly familiar tender frog-types. For the game board lover, Anderson’s Frogopoly is the next best thing to Monopoly when it comes to spotting the hard to detect frogs.

But in all seriousness, Marilyn does point out that just as one person’s junk might be another person’s treasure, one woman’s frog could give another woman pleasure; and don’t throw out your prince if he has only a few minor frog qualities. After all, nobody is perfect. Her light-hearted tone is a pleasant reminder not to take this whole dating thing too seriously. Keep in mind, if you notice early in your relationship that he has frog qualities, just toss him out before you get too attached.

“A frog doesn’t have to be a bad guy.  He could be a good guy, but if he’s not the right guy to walk you down the aisle, he’s a frog, and you should throw him back into the pond.”

To learn more about Never Kiss a Frog, visit Marilyn Anderson’s website atwww.neverkissafrog.com.

Interview and book review by Kaylene Peoples