Saturday, March 28, 2009
Trolley tour of the art galleries
I was very impressed by the art galleries on South Main. It’s funny I’d never been no where near them, in all of my 30+ years of living in Memphis! However, this has changed the way I’ve read Memphis and altered my sense of the city, in a way that, believe it or not, I didn’t quite know that Memphis had so much to offer in that regard. I was quite informed. But, actually, I’m not that much of an art person, reason being, I’m moreso into music and theatre, both being my favorites. I like gospel music and just about any live play. Nevertheless, art is something that must be appreciated, since it’s a form of spatial intelligence. My sense of Memphis was altered by the intellectual crowd and trendy restaurants that I observed in this environment. I now have more respect for downtown Memphis, quite different from years and years way back-when I used to go on Beale with my teen friends. I stopped going because at that particular point in my life, right after high school, I thought, I can either make it or break it. I chose to get more serious and began investing in my future academic goals, which is what I am currently building on right now. Subsequently, that was one of the best choices I’d ever made in my life! I’m glad I made the trip, because this has dramatically changed the way I perceive Memphis, now with a much more positive perception verses my last visit, almost 10 years ago. The trip had such a positive impact, I ran home and told my hubby all about it. We plan to revisit some of those same places that the class and I went to. As for the trolley, never had rode it, until now. It was so exciting for me, although I was a bit scared! It’s a good way to get connected to all that Memphis has to offer. It’s just easier on the trolley. Why drive? The trolley is a great connection to all the restaurants, shops, downtown hotels, galleries, attractions, sporting events and everything else Memphis has to offer in the Pinch District, Beale St., S. Main Arts District, Peabody Place Mall, Fed Ex Forum, Autozone Park, Riverfront and more. Can’t wait to go back with the family!
Monday, March 23, 2009
Books on Brothels and Bordellos
OK, I like alliteration. I confess.
The night we went to Sun Studios, we went to King Palace (is this right?) for dinner and a long walk after to aid in digestion. We walked down Beale to G.E. Patterson and then back toward the river. We decided to walk down to The Arcade Restaurant to see if we could tell where the old Arcade Hotel used to be.
The walk along Main was nice. The sun was hanging low in the sky and darkness descended gradually as we made our way further south. There were lofts along the way, and Doug told us about how many of them were occupied. Henry Turley has definitely made some money off of those old buildings - most of them belong to him, though I did see a couple of new names on the leasing signs. There were also art galleries and a couple of working studios. We saw the most beautiful paintings of nothing in one little studio; I've been trying to figure out a way to get one of them onto my wall.
There was a section of Main where all of the parking meters were eclectically decorated. Every one was different - all unique, and they were signed by the artists. The doors and windows were also decorated; even one pillar was decked out in sparkly mosaic style.
As we walked, we talked about Memphis' history. Memphis has such a rich history, filled with illicit things that tickle the imagination. I think that's what makes it so rich, personally. Something that has always piqued my interest, both in Memphis and in general, is Bordellos and Brothels. Whorehouses. I know that this is perhaps, not the most wholesome interest, but sometimes a person has little to say about what grabs their attention.
I think one of the reasons I have always been interested in such an unseemly topic is that my sister was a prostitute. I loved her more than anything in the world, and she loved me back just as fiercely and unconditionally. I miss her every day - perhaps this is my way of being close to her. Michelle was a very complex person, as I'm sure that many prostitutes through history have been too.
I decided that night that I'm going to write a book on - you guessed it - Brothels, Bordellos, and Whorehouses. Possibly just in Memphis, if I can find enough information; possibly all of Tennessee, or The South, or The US. We'll see. What I do know is that it will be titles "Brothels, Bordellos, and Whorehouses..."
I'm pretty excited about it. I hope people will read it, because although it *is* an unseemly subject, it's definitely a part of our history, both right here in Memphis as well as all over the country.
The night we went to Sun Studios, we went to King Palace (is this right?) for dinner and a long walk after to aid in digestion. We walked down Beale to G.E. Patterson and then back toward the river. We decided to walk down to The Arcade Restaurant to see if we could tell where the old Arcade Hotel used to be.
The walk along Main was nice. The sun was hanging low in the sky and darkness descended gradually as we made our way further south. There were lofts along the way, and Doug told us about how many of them were occupied. Henry Turley has definitely made some money off of those old buildings - most of them belong to him, though I did see a couple of new names on the leasing signs. There were also art galleries and a couple of working studios. We saw the most beautiful paintings of nothing in one little studio; I've been trying to figure out a way to get one of them onto my wall.
There was a section of Main where all of the parking meters were eclectically decorated. Every one was different - all unique, and they were signed by the artists. The doors and windows were also decorated; even one pillar was decked out in sparkly mosaic style.
As we walked, we talked about Memphis' history. Memphis has such a rich history, filled with illicit things that tickle the imagination. I think that's what makes it so rich, personally. Something that has always piqued my interest, both in Memphis and in general, is Bordellos and Brothels. Whorehouses. I know that this is perhaps, not the most wholesome interest, but sometimes a person has little to say about what grabs their attention.
I think one of the reasons I have always been interested in such an unseemly topic is that my sister was a prostitute. I loved her more than anything in the world, and she loved me back just as fiercely and unconditionally. I miss her every day - perhaps this is my way of being close to her. Michelle was a very complex person, as I'm sure that many prostitutes through history have been too.
I decided that night that I'm going to write a book on - you guessed it - Brothels, Bordellos, and Whorehouses. Possibly just in Memphis, if I can find enough information; possibly all of Tennessee, or The South, or The US. We'll see. What I do know is that it will be titles "Brothels, Bordellos, and Whorehouses..."
I'm pretty excited about it. I hope people will read it, because although it *is* an unseemly subject, it's definitely a part of our history, both right here in Memphis as well as all over the country.
Sun Studios
I was not able to go to Sun Studios, due to a terrible run-in with the Unemployment Office, but I read some stuff about it and decided to blog anyway.
My brother-in-law recorded at Sun Studios once. He was very proud of it. I actually didn't know why at the time, because I really do not care much for Elvis. I really like Johnny Cash now, but I don't think I had discovered him yet (this was like 5 or 6 years ago). His band was called Solace For Now, and they were actually really good. If I remember correctly, he actually recorded with Saliva at Sun Studios as well. So, that is really my only experience with them. I was really upset that I didn't get to go, because being a musician, I would really have liked to see that, and maybe build a dream of recording there some day...
I knew that Sun Studios had something to do with Elvis, but I didn't know that was how he got his start. It seems strange to me that he was just an 18 kid with a guitar and a dream hanging out at a studio and doing demos that didn't really impress much of anyone, and then BAM the most well-known musician in history. It seems strange to me that Elvis was once a musician on the same level as me (recording and famous wise).
I found this video that kind of ties into two of our class things - its black and white pictures from Sun Studios and it uses the song "Mystery Train," which was used in the movie with the same title.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OyEIchHv4G0
I actually think its pretty weird that Sun Studios is famous enough for people to make tribute videos to it, and I'm a musician, and I didn't know what it was in my brother-in-law was telling me all about recording there.
My brother-in-law recorded at Sun Studios once. He was very proud of it. I actually didn't know why at the time, because I really do not care much for Elvis. I really like Johnny Cash now, but I don't think I had discovered him yet (this was like 5 or 6 years ago). His band was called Solace For Now, and they were actually really good. If I remember correctly, he actually recorded with Saliva at Sun Studios as well. So, that is really my only experience with them. I was really upset that I didn't get to go, because being a musician, I would really have liked to see that, and maybe build a dream of recording there some day...
I knew that Sun Studios had something to do with Elvis, but I didn't know that was how he got his start. It seems strange to me that he was just an 18 kid with a guitar and a dream hanging out at a studio and doing demos that didn't really impress much of anyone, and then BAM the most well-known musician in history. It seems strange to me that Elvis was once a musician on the same level as me (recording and famous wise).
I found this video that kind of ties into two of our class things - its black and white pictures from Sun Studios and it uses the song "Mystery Train," which was used in the movie with the same title.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OyEIchHv4G0
I actually think its pretty weird that Sun Studios is famous enough for people to make tribute videos to it, and I'm a musician, and I didn't know what it was in my brother-in-law was telling me all about recording there.
A Raisin in the Sun
Sorry that this post is so late in the blog, we do not have internet at home, and this has been my first opportunity to blog since we've been back.
I have always loved small community theater's more than the huge ones, like GPAC or Orpheum, and this experience was no exception. Although I caught many line flubs and small mistakes, I was amazed by how well these actors were able to smooth them out. In fact, I feel that most people probably didn't even notice most of them. I just think I noticed them because I've been performing my whole life, and am therefore overly critical.
The woman who played "momma" was one of the most incredible actors that I have seen in a live play (and I've seen some good ones!). The part where she realizes that all of the money is gone was amazing. I almost started crying, and I definitely had goosebumps. I felt like handing her an award right then and there.
I also feel that I must be of a different branch of humanity, because I don't really understand what is so wrong with taking the man's money. How I feel, if someone is stupid enough to PAY me that much money to not live around them, well hell, I'm gonna take their money, laugh all the way to the bank, and then laugh all the way to somewhere else to live. And then continue to laugh some more at the stupid people. I guess I just don't have as much pride as normal people, and I really don't see the need to make my own life, as well as other people's lives, miserable based solely on principle. I hope no one gets offended that I said this, because I'm sure I'm the only one who feels this way!
I have always loved small community theater's more than the huge ones, like GPAC or Orpheum, and this experience was no exception. Although I caught many line flubs and small mistakes, I was amazed by how well these actors were able to smooth them out. In fact, I feel that most people probably didn't even notice most of them. I just think I noticed them because I've been performing my whole life, and am therefore overly critical.
The woman who played "momma" was one of the most incredible actors that I have seen in a live play (and I've seen some good ones!). The part where she realizes that all of the money is gone was amazing. I almost started crying, and I definitely had goosebumps. I felt like handing her an award right then and there.
I also feel that I must be of a different branch of humanity, because I don't really understand what is so wrong with taking the man's money. How I feel, if someone is stupid enough to PAY me that much money to not live around them, well hell, I'm gonna take their money, laugh all the way to the bank, and then laugh all the way to somewhere else to live. And then continue to laugh some more at the stupid people. I guess I just don't have as much pride as normal people, and I really don't see the need to make my own life, as well as other people's lives, miserable based solely on principle. I hope no one gets offended that I said this, because I'm sure I'm the only one who feels this way!
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Sun Studios
The trip to Sun Studios let me see the impact Memphis has made on Memphis. I knew of the Million Dollar Quartet members, and Johnny Cash is one of my favorite artists, but I didn't know the impact of some of the earlier artists, especially Blues artists other than B.B. King. This has made me more interested in today's Memphis music scene. Rufus Thomas's Bear Cat was great. It's nice to see Blues musicians that still play in Memphis, like the one we heard at dinner. I do wish he had played more Blues songs and less popular songs though. I don't know very much about the history of Memphis music or the Blues, but the trip to Sun Studios has inspired me to learn more and to broaden my musical tastes. I think I may have even found a new favorite genre. I went on youtube and found a lot of videos from Sun Studios sessions of newer artists that have recorded there. Garrison Starr's Gasoline, and Amy La Vere's Killing Him were both very good and both women are native to the Memphis area. Amy's playing the new Minglewood hall on April 19. It's a Sunday and I may try to go. It would definitely be something different I've never done before. The show benefits True Story Pictures a Memphis non-profit group whose mission "is to document stories that educate, inspire and connect our community."
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Important Change: Presentations
Dear Class—
I am thinking seriously about another change in our schedule. I would like very much for us to do our class presentations in the Fulton Auditorium. It isn’t free at 6:00 on Monday, April 27. I can, however, get it in the afternoon, from 3:00 – 5:30.
I would like very much to do the presentations then. But of course, we can only do that if you all are free.
I’d like to hear back from you RIGHT AWAY about this so that I can make arrangements. Can we change the time to 3:00 – 5:30 on Monday, April 27?
Why don’t you respond on the blog? And, while you’re at it. . . .we’re getting behind on the blog! I’d like to see a bit more spirited discussion about some Memphis-related stuff! Other than having a good time, how did our Sun Studio evening alter your sense of the city?
Doug
I am thinking seriously about another change in our schedule. I would like very much for us to do our class presentations in the Fulton Auditorium. It isn’t free at 6:00 on Monday, April 27. I can, however, get it in the afternoon, from 3:00 – 5:30.
I would like very much to do the presentations then. But of course, we can only do that if you all are free.
I’d like to hear back from you RIGHT AWAY about this so that I can make arrangements. Can we change the time to 3:00 – 5:30 on Monday, April 27?
Why don’t you respond on the blog? And, while you’re at it. . . .we’re getting behind on the blog! I’d like to see a bit more spirited discussion about some Memphis-related stuff! Other than having a good time, how did our Sun Studio evening alter your sense of the city?
Doug
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Honors Inquiry Schedule
Dear Class—
I’ve made some changes in our schedule for the rest of the semester. I hope the times and dates work for folks! So. . . .mark your calendars. I think we have some fun, educational, and edifying activities in store, all designed to deepen our understanding of Memphis.
I’m skipping the Stax tour. I think it would have been a lot of fun, but I think we can only do SO MANY activities. The fact that they’re closed on Mondays doesn’t help, either. I would encourage one or more of you to go on your own, though. I’ve noticed the blog sort of slowing down. I would be very impressed by some blog entries on Stax.
And speaking of the blog, I’d really like some thoughts and impressions of A Raisin in the Sun. I think we’re agreed that we were pretty impressed with the production. But what about larger meanings of the play? Remember, too, that this blog is designed to give y’all the opportunity to write about activities OTHER than things we do as a class, too. I’d like to see more of that—like Ray’s rollerderby entry.
I would like you to be sure to participate in EITHER our March 26 OR our March 27 activity. I’ve spoken to a few of you, and there seemed to be enthusiasm for both. It would be GREAT if you were able to participate in both. But if you MUST choose just one, you may. Please LET ME KNOW by email, by Monday, March 23, if you plan on attending BOTH the Brooks and the Trolly tour or just ONE of them. (I need a headcount, for the Brooks, so I need to know what your plans are. If anybody’s husband, wife, or friend is coming, let me know that, too)
Thursday, March 26. Our Honors Academy meeting is at 2:00, P-2. I’d like as many of you as possible to make it to the meeting, as we’ll be discussing Honors Academy activities for the coming year. And then for our Inquiry activity, meet at the Brooks Museum at 4:30. I’d like us to spend an hour and a half just browsing the museum. There’s a very interesting exhibition of Southern quilts right now, and a cool, smaller exhibition called “Contempt for the New.” And at 6:00, we’ll be attending a lecture I’m looking forward to. Brooks Director Cameron Kitchin will be discussing the role and response of public art museums in culture wars and art controversies of the past three decades.
The cost for getting into the galleries will just be $3.00 And the lecture itself will be free. (The Brooks normally charges for these lectures, but agreed to allow us in for free. You might want to thanks somebody when you get there.) but I’ve made reservations for us all, except for Kathryn, who said she couldn’t come.
Afterwards, I’d like for us all to eat at a Vietnamese restaurant I love. (And vegetarians will be happy!) It’s on Cleveland, and it’s called Saigon Le.
Friday, March 27. I’m glad you all like each other, since we’ll be together for two nights in a row! But I think the trolly tour of the art galleries on South Main sounds like a lot of fun. I’ve heard it is. Let’s meet in front of Parking Can Be Fun, on Union, at 5:45. We can walk together to a trolly stop and hang out. Let’s just play supper by ear that night, don’t you think?
Monday, April 6: Regular class time, Honors Office. This will be our viewing and discussion of Hustle and Flow. I’ll bring soft drinks and popcorn!
I’d like as many of you as possible to come to the National Poetry Month celebration on Thursday, April 9. It’s a Brown Bag Lunch, 12:30 in Fulton Auditorium. Greg Brownderville, a poet who lives in Missouri now, will be reading. He’s really excellent (and handsome, for those of you who are interested in handsome poets.)
Friday, April 10, I’m having a cocktail party for Greg at my house in Oxford at 7:00 PM. The address is 608 Martin Luther King Drive. I think it would be very nice if cool Honors students showed up for this. This is not a class requirement, obviously, but you’re all invited. And I’d like you to RSVP by April 3, so I can know how many to prepare for. Husbands, wives, and friends are welcome.
Not a requirement. But I’d like for you to try to come to the Honors Convocation in Nabors Auditorium on April 14. It’s at 3:00. I’d like you to wear your shirts, too. (Does anybody need an Honors shirt?) I don’t quite know WHAT our duties will be yet, but I’m going to figure out a way to make us a visible presence.
Friday, April 17: Our Elmwood Cemetery tour. Mary Ann Boydala, one of our professors at Southwest, has given these tours for years. .. .and I hear they’re wonderful. Let’s meet at the cemetery at 1:45. Of course, I’ll be happy to have an early dinner somewhere afterwards.
I’m giving you the next week off. I’m sure you’ll be wanting to PERFECT your presentations, which are scheduled for. ….
Monday, April 27. 6:00. The TENTATIVE location is Fulton Auditorium. I’ll talk about presentations more at some point, but they need to be at least 15 minutes long. They may, however, go as long as ½ hour, if necessary. Let me know if you think you’ll be requiring ½ hour.
We’re going to invite the campus community, especially Honors students, to attend the presentations. You may certainly invite friends and family as well. Please do, in fact. And I think we should all go someplace hip and fun afterwards! Young Ave. Deli?
Dear Class—
I’ve made some changes in our schedule for the rest of the semester. I hope the times and dates work for folks! So. . . .mark your calendars. I think we have some fun, educational, and edifying activities in store, all designed to deepen our understanding of Memphis.
I’m skipping the Stax tour. I think it would have been a lot of fun, but I think we can only do SO MANY activities. The fact that they’re closed on Mondays doesn’t help, either. I would encourage one or more of you to go on your own, though. I’ve noticed the blog sort of slowing down. I would be very impressed by some blog entries on Stax.
And speaking of the blog, I’d really like some thoughts and impressions of A Raisin in the Sun. I think we’re agreed that we were pretty impressed with the production. But what about larger meanings of the play? Remember, too, that this blog is designed to give y’all the opportunity to write about activities OTHER than things we do as a class, too. I’d like to see more of that—like Ray’s rollerderby entry.
I would like you to be sure to participate in EITHER our March 26 OR our March 27 activity. I’ve spoken to a few of you, and there seemed to be enthusiasm for both. It would be GREAT if you were able to participate in both. But if you MUST choose just one, you may. Please LET ME KNOW by email, by Monday, March 23, if you plan on attending BOTH the Brooks and the Trolly tour or just ONE of them. (I need a headcount, for the Brooks, so I need to know what your plans are. If anybody’s husband, wife, or friend is coming, let me know that, too)
Thursday, March 26. Our Honors Academy meeting is at 2:00, P-2. I’d like as many of you as possible to make it to the meeting, as we’ll be discussing Honors Academy activities for the coming year. And then for our Inquiry activity, meet at the Brooks Museum at 4:30. I’d like us to spend an hour and a half just browsing the museum. There’s a very interesting exhibition of Southern quilts right now, and a cool, smaller exhibition called “Contempt for the New.” And at 6:00, we’ll be attending a lecture I’m looking forward to. Brooks Director Cameron Kitchin will be discussing the role and response of public art museums in culture wars and art controversies of the past three decades.
The cost for getting into the galleries will just be $3.00 And the lecture itself will be free. (The Brooks normally charges for these lectures, but agreed to allow us in for free. You might want to thanks somebody when you get there.) but I’ve made reservations for us all, except for Kathryn, who said she couldn’t come.
Afterwards, I’d like for us all to eat at a Vietnamese restaurant I love. (And vegetarians will be happy!) It’s on Cleveland, and it’s called Saigon Le.
Friday, March 27. I’m glad you all like each other, since we’ll be together for two nights in a row! But I think the trolly tour of the art galleries on South Main sounds like a lot of fun. I’ve heard it is. Let’s meet in front of Parking Can Be Fun, on Union, at 5:45. We can walk together to a trolly stop and hang out. Let’s just play supper by ear that night, don’t you think?
Monday, April 6: Regular class time, Honors Office. This will be our viewing and discussion of Hustle and Flow. I’ll bring soft drinks and popcorn!
I’d like as many of you as possible to come to the National Poetry Month celebration on Thursday, April 9. It’s a Brown Bag Lunch, 12:30 in Fulton Auditorium. Greg Brownderville, a poet who lives in Missouri now, will be reading. He’s really excellent (and handsome, for those of you who are interested in handsome poets.)
Friday, April 10, I’m having a cocktail party for Greg at my house in Oxford at 7:00 PM. The address is 608 Martin Luther King Drive. I think it would be very nice if cool Honors students showed up for this. This is not a class requirement, obviously, but you’re all invited. And I’d like you to RSVP by April 3, so I can know how many to prepare for. Husbands, wives, and friends are welcome.
Not a requirement. But I’d like for you to try to come to the Honors Convocation in Nabors Auditorium on April 14. It’s at 3:00. I’d like you to wear your shirts, too. (Does anybody need an Honors shirt?) I don’t quite know WHAT our duties will be yet, but I’m going to figure out a way to make us a visible presence.
Friday, April 17: Our Elmwood Cemetery tour. Mary Ann Boydala, one of our professors at Southwest, has given these tours for years. .. .and I hear they’re wonderful. Let’s meet at the cemetery at 1:45. Of course, I’ll be happy to have an early dinner somewhere afterwards.
I’m giving you the next week off. I’m sure you’ll be wanting to PERFECT your presentations, which are scheduled for. ….
Monday, April 27. 6:00. The TENTATIVE location is Fulton Auditorium. I’ll talk about presentations more at some point, but they need to be at least 15 minutes long. They may, however, go as long as ½ hour, if necessary. Let me know if you think you’ll be requiring ½ hour.
We’re going to invite the campus community, especially Honors students, to attend the presentations. You may certainly invite friends and family as well. Please do, in fact. And I think we should all go someplace hip and fun afterwards! Young Ave. Deli?
Monday, March 16, 2009
"SUN"
Sun Studios was awesome! It was extremely interesting for me. I was more able to relate to the Blues celebrities such as Blues Boy (B.B.)King, Rufus Thomas and Isaac Hayes. Of course Elvis rang a bell!!! Wow, he is very rich to Memphis History. I got to look at his social security card, unbelievable! Never though it’ll happen! Not as important that his family was on welfare, although I’d already heard the rumors. So, what!!! But, a graduate of Humes, right here in Memphis, wonder how the people feel that were in the same graduating class as him? It makes him appear so ordinary verses big timing. Well, I think Sam fared pretty well, despite financial problems. Must be pretty neat, to help get Elvis started, I’d bet. Did you all know that they are having an Elvis auction on line? The link is on WMC T.V. 5 and ends Wednesday. I thought the tour guide was going to take it farther with the blues, better they didn’t. Rap and Blues can go toe to toe as they both get pretty vulgar. “Go Cat” came pretty darn close. Good we kept it clean. I didn’t realize just how instrumental and influential Perkins, Lewis, Cash and a host of others were to Memphis and the Rock and Roll scene. It’s just something about Jerry Lee Lewis’ “Great Balls of Fire.” Got to love it. Nice picture of the million dollar quartet. You never stop learning. I love when that happens. Those novelty broadcasting and recording equipment really caught my eye. I love novelty and nostalgic items. What was also interesting is that, Sun Studios is still being currently used as a music studio. I am so glad that throughout the years and with transfer of ownership, they were able to preserve the heritage of Sun Studios. It definitely deserves the recognition of a historical sight. Oh, by the way guys, please forgive me now and in the future, for not making dinner. I have a courseload this semester with twenty-two hours, 90% more than the average student, nothing at all to brag about. However, I would love to join you all someday. But, as you can imagine, it can get pretty tight trying to juggle such an enormous courseload, a hubby and three small kids, none of who are teens. Not to mention, I’ve been preparing for a Nursing program to which I’ve already been accepted to this upcoming Fall. My kids and hubby all reside with me. Sometimes, when we are all at home, all day, we barely get to see each other, beyond my studies. Thank God for fast food, microwaves and showers, anything that makes it easy, unfortunately. In my spare time I try to divide the time up with them and mandatory appearances for schoolwork. It's not really that intense, just so long as I stay on my P's & Q's. But, hey, don’t miss me too much. Just keep eating enough for me! I will try my very best to make dinner with you all, at least once before the semester ends. Anyways, I thought you may understand, if I hadn’t told you all, already. Again, give me to the end of the semester, because I really do enjoy being with you all.
Raisin interview with Jarron
Hey Guys, just wanted to share with you all the published interview with Jarron and what he had to say about our visit to the play as well as his overview as an actor at STCC. These are his exact words:
“I want to thank you for coming and see the play and I'm glad that it was a wonderful experience for you! The play was a very wonderful and unique experience and I wanted to make sure that everyone gets their money's worth! I did attend STCC and Ron Gephart was a very wonderful person to work with and was very influential in expanding my career. He helped me hone my skills and gave me the opportunity to showcase my talent and I'm very appreciative of that. He also was the first one to tell me to become the character and made me realize that when you come to rehearsal you are not yourself anymore, you are the character. Levi Frazier, who is also a professor there, helped me by letting me act in various works that he directed and wrote, and he inspires me to become a better actor everyday. Throughout my life I realized that I wanted to become an actor because I want to bring life to a story and affect other people's lives in the telling of that story. Although theatre can be looked at as a mirror image of reality it also shows life in its most powerful form. Taking on the challenge of portraying Walter Lee was the hardest acting job I ever done thus far and I'm glad that I'm doing the role a good service. I hope that I can somehow put a smile on Sidney Poitier's face and if not his, I'm glad I can put one on yours! I hope this is enough for you and thank you for taking the time out to put together this request! I deeply appreciate it and if you need more you can contact me at... Have a blessed day!
“I want to thank you for coming and see the play and I'm glad that it was a wonderful experience for you! The play was a very wonderful and unique experience and I wanted to make sure that everyone gets their money's worth! I did attend STCC and Ron Gephart was a very wonderful person to work with and was very influential in expanding my career. He helped me hone my skills and gave me the opportunity to showcase my talent and I'm very appreciative of that. He also was the first one to tell me to become the character and made me realize that when you come to rehearsal you are not yourself anymore, you are the character. Levi Frazier, who is also a professor there, helped me by letting me act in various works that he directed and wrote, and he inspires me to become a better actor everyday. Throughout my life I realized that I wanted to become an actor because I want to bring life to a story and affect other people's lives in the telling of that story. Although theatre can be looked at as a mirror image of reality it also shows life in its most powerful form. Taking on the challenge of portraying Walter Lee was the hardest acting job I ever done thus far and I'm glad that I'm doing the role a good service. I hope that I can somehow put a smile on Sidney Poitier's face and if not his, I'm glad I can put one on yours! I hope this is enough for you and thank you for taking the time out to put together this request! I deeply appreciate it and if you need more you can contact me at... Have a blessed day!
Saturday, March 14, 2009
A Raisin in the Sun
I thoroughly enjoyed the production of A Raisin in the Sun. The theater was small, but it was cozy and I really liked it. I want to go back and see other productions there. I'll have to find my playbill so I can see what else is playing there. I was pleasantly surprised by the play. In my research on it, I tried very hard not to read anything about the plot. The story was outstanding. I think the story is still relevant to Memphis today. We definitely have black and white neighborhoods. I've also heard many people talk about "the great white flight" where people move out of their neighborhoods when black people start to move in. My own family has been guilty of this. The actors where really good as well. The little boy was adorable. I loved it every time he said "aww." The woman who played Lena was marvelous as well. I think she made the play what it was. Most of the actors were amazing, but she was just wonderful. I've rather enjoyed doing nothing over spring break, but I'm looking forward to getting back into the swing of things this week. When I'm not in school I'm overall non-productive and lazy. I'll get back on trach with things this week. I can't wait to see everyone Monday. I miss my conversations with you the most. (It's so hard not to type ya'll there.)
King City Cafe
Hey guys
I think we should go to King City Cafe. They have a guy named David Bowen that plays from 5:30 to 9:30 on Mondays.
I think we should go to King City Cafe. They have a guy named David Bowen that plays from 5:30 to 9:30 on Mondays.
King's Palace Cafe
162 Beale, Memphis (Beale Street), TN 38103
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Reflector Articles
Dear Inquiry and Comp. II students—
(I've already emailed you this note, but I thought I'd put it on the blog, too. You'll notice that SOME of what I have to say is more intended for Comp. II students than Inquiry students, but I thought I'd leave the note as it was, since so many of you are in both classes. I'll look forward to your responses soon!)
As you know, one of the requirements for both Honors Inquiry and Comp. II is that you write a short article, with the aim of possible publication in our Honors newsletter, The Reflector, about a cultural event in which the Honors Academy is somehow involved. Some of you have already written an article, and in a few cases two articles, but some of you haven’t written anything yet.
There are plenty of opportunities still. Remember: I am asking Inquiry students to write TWO articles, Comp. II students to write ONE article. Those of you in both classes, then, will need to write THREE this semester. I’m thinking, too, of articles in the 400-500 word range.
Here are a few possibilities for articles that still need to be written. If I put a (2) beside the article, I’m thinking that this, if it’s more like an 750-word article, could count for two articles. If you are a Comp. II student and you write an article that’s longer and in the 750-word range, I might be willing to arrange just a bit of extra credit for you.
Some of these topics will be more appropriate for Comp. II students, some more appropriate for Inquiry students, and some could go either way. And some of you might have other good ideas for articles in mind.
We need the following:
*An article on our field trip to see A Raisin in the Sun, which might include a review of the play.
*It would be VERY cool if somebody wanted to interview Jerron Robinson, the Southwest graduate who played Walter Lee Younger. His father is Ellis Robinson, who teaches English in our department. You could find Jerron’s phone number through him. Either a published interview or, maybe, an overview of his experiences at Southwest and as an actor. (2)
*Somebody will want to do an overview article about the Comp. II field trip to Oxford.
*It would be very cool if somebody did an interview/article about Bill Griffith, who is the curator of Rowan Oak (Faulkner’s home). He’s “done” this tour for Southwest students many, many times. (2)
*Somebody needs to do an interview / article about Clarence Christian, the retiring director of the Honors Academy. You would need to arrange that through Irina, the office secretary. (2)
*Inquiry will be visiting Sun Studios on Monday. We’ll need an article about that event.
*Inquiry will also be visiting Stax Studios.
*Inquiry will be visiting Elmwood Cemetery.
*Inquiry will also be visiting the Brooks Museum, where there are two very cool exhibits right now, a Southern quilt exhibit and another called “Contempt for the New.” We’re planning on attending a Thursday night lecture, late in March. An article on “Contempt” lecture and/or exhibit would be great, as would another on the quilts.
*There’s a possibility for a second “Elmwood” article. One of our faculty members, Mary Ann Bodayla, will be conducting the tour. She’s done it often in the past. An interview with her and an article about her interest in Elmwood and graveyards in general would be great.
*What about an overview / review of one or both of the films we’ve seen in Inquiry class? That would work.
*We’ll want an article about our National Poetry Month event, a reading with Greg Brownderville.
*I would think an interview with Brownderville and a more general article about him as a poet would be great, too (2).
*On our Oxford field trip, Comp. II students will be hearing Lee Durkee read. He’s the author of a fine novel called Rides of the Midway. An article about his reading would be great.
*An interview with Durkee would be fabulous, too. That might be worth (2)
*If somebody wanted to read Durkee’s novel and write a review, I would be especially grateful. I’d count THAT as 2, easily, and maybe even throw in a little “extra-extra” credit for a very well-written review.
SO. .. .there are lots of possibilities here. I’d like you to write to me and tell me what project you want to do. Some of these articles will be written in time for our late April Reflector, but others may have to wait until the Fall to be published. But if you let me know RIGHT AWAY which article you want to write, I can make sure that nobody else is working on the same article.
You might have other ideas for articles, too, or I might have overlooked something. Let me know if you DO have an idea about something I haven’t mentioned here.
When you write to me, I’d like you to cc a copy to Faith Palmertree, the Reflector editor. Her address is jpalmertree@students.southwest.tn.edu . I don’t know what date she’s set for the deadline for the April edition, but I assume it’s pretty close to the beginning of April.
I hope you all are having a good Spring Break. And again, the sooner you let me know what article you want to write, the sooner you’ll be “locked.” That will be good, because nobody will be able to steal your idea. .. .
DB
(I've already emailed you this note, but I thought I'd put it on the blog, too. You'll notice that SOME of what I have to say is more intended for Comp. II students than Inquiry students, but I thought I'd leave the note as it was, since so many of you are in both classes. I'll look forward to your responses soon!)
As you know, one of the requirements for both Honors Inquiry and Comp. II is that you write a short article, with the aim of possible publication in our Honors newsletter, The Reflector, about a cultural event in which the Honors Academy is somehow involved. Some of you have already written an article, and in a few cases two articles, but some of you haven’t written anything yet.
There are plenty of opportunities still. Remember: I am asking Inquiry students to write TWO articles, Comp. II students to write ONE article. Those of you in both classes, then, will need to write THREE this semester. I’m thinking, too, of articles in the 400-500 word range.
Here are a few possibilities for articles that still need to be written. If I put a (2) beside the article, I’m thinking that this, if it’s more like an 750-word article, could count for two articles. If you are a Comp. II student and you write an article that’s longer and in the 750-word range, I might be willing to arrange just a bit of extra credit for you.
Some of these topics will be more appropriate for Comp. II students, some more appropriate for Inquiry students, and some could go either way. And some of you might have other good ideas for articles in mind.
We need the following:
*An article on our field trip to see A Raisin in the Sun, which might include a review of the play.
*It would be VERY cool if somebody wanted to interview Jerron Robinson, the Southwest graduate who played Walter Lee Younger. His father is Ellis Robinson, who teaches English in our department. You could find Jerron’s phone number through him. Either a published interview or, maybe, an overview of his experiences at Southwest and as an actor. (2)
*Somebody will want to do an overview article about the Comp. II field trip to Oxford.
*It would be very cool if somebody did an interview/article about Bill Griffith, who is the curator of Rowan Oak (Faulkner’s home). He’s “done” this tour for Southwest students many, many times. (2)
*Somebody needs to do an interview / article about Clarence Christian, the retiring director of the Honors Academy. You would need to arrange that through Irina, the office secretary. (2)
*Inquiry will be visiting Sun Studios on Monday. We’ll need an article about that event.
*Inquiry will also be visiting Stax Studios.
*Inquiry will be visiting Elmwood Cemetery.
*Inquiry will also be visiting the Brooks Museum, where there are two very cool exhibits right now, a Southern quilt exhibit and another called “Contempt for the New.” We’re planning on attending a Thursday night lecture, late in March. An article on “Contempt” lecture and/or exhibit would be great, as would another on the quilts.
*There’s a possibility for a second “Elmwood” article. One of our faculty members, Mary Ann Bodayla, will be conducting the tour. She’s done it often in the past. An interview with her and an article about her interest in Elmwood and graveyards in general would be great.
*What about an overview / review of one or both of the films we’ve seen in Inquiry class? That would work.
*We’ll want an article about our National Poetry Month event, a reading with Greg Brownderville.
*I would think an interview with Brownderville and a more general article about him as a poet would be great, too (2).
*On our Oxford field trip, Comp. II students will be hearing Lee Durkee read. He’s the author of a fine novel called Rides of the Midway. An article about his reading would be great.
*An interview with Durkee would be fabulous, too. That might be worth (2)
*If somebody wanted to read Durkee’s novel and write a review, I would be especially grateful. I’d count THAT as 2, easily, and maybe even throw in a little “extra-extra” credit for a very well-written review.
SO. .. .there are lots of possibilities here. I’d like you to write to me and tell me what project you want to do. Some of these articles will be written in time for our late April Reflector, but others may have to wait until the Fall to be published. But if you let me know RIGHT AWAY which article you want to write, I can make sure that nobody else is working on the same article.
You might have other ideas for articles, too, or I might have overlooked something. Let me know if you DO have an idea about something I haven’t mentioned here.
When you write to me, I’d like you to cc a copy to Faith Palmertree, the Reflector editor. Her address is jpalmertree@students.southwest.tn.edu . I don’t know what date she’s set for the deadline for the April edition, but I assume it’s pretty close to the beginning of April.
I hope you all are having a good Spring Break. And again, the sooner you let me know what article you want to write, the sooner you’ll be “locked.” That will be good, because nobody will be able to steal your idea. .. .
DB
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Sun Studio
Hey, class--
I'm looking forward to reading more about what you have to say about A Raisin in the Sun. I enjoyed our evening, and I'm anticipating a good discussion of it on our blog.
A little change in plans for Monday: I've called Sun Studio, and I think it's best that we begin our tour at 4:30. So we really DO need to be there, getting ourselves together, by 4:15. And we don't want to be late, since the tour does begin at 4:30. I've never done this before, weirdly enough, and I'm eager to learn more about this iconic place in Memphis' history.
The cost is normally $12.00, but I got them to knock off a couple of bucks. It will be $10 for us.
I've asked Ray to check out what's going on early in the evening as far as live music on Monday night. I'm hoping some of you will want to go somewhere for dinner and then out to hear some music after our tour of Sun Studio. I think it will be a good time, for sure.
I'll write again as soon as I hear something from Ray. And I hope y'all are having a good break.
Doug
I'm looking forward to reading more about what you have to say about A Raisin in the Sun. I enjoyed our evening, and I'm anticipating a good discussion of it on our blog.
A little change in plans for Monday: I've called Sun Studio, and I think it's best that we begin our tour at 4:30. So we really DO need to be there, getting ourselves together, by 4:15. And we don't want to be late, since the tour does begin at 4:30. I've never done this before, weirdly enough, and I'm eager to learn more about this iconic place in Memphis' history.
The cost is normally $12.00, but I got them to knock off a couple of bucks. It will be $10 for us.
I've asked Ray to check out what's going on early in the evening as far as live music on Monday night. I'm hoping some of you will want to go somewhere for dinner and then out to hear some music after our tour of Sun Studio. I think it will be a good time, for sure.
I'll write again as soon as I hear something from Ray. And I hope y'all are having a good break.
Doug
Monday, March 9, 2009
A Raisin in the Sun; Reaction
The play was fabulous. Memphis has great local talent. They really pulled it off. I was amazed that the guy was able to portray Sidney Poitier so well. As a matter of fact, I pulled up a portrait of Poitier in his younger days and found an uncanny resemblance of the two actors as well. What captured my attention was that Jarron Robinson, as Walter Lee was able to be so antsy and fidgety, personality wise, just as the original versions intended. Hooray, for the STCC alumni! Precious Morris did an excellent rendition of “momma.”All the characters were fantastic in their performances. As many times as I’d seen the play, three to be exact, I never once knew that it was originally named The Crystal Stair, although I’ve read the poem, which by the way, is just as fantastic. I love how they modified the play just a little, to include a little modern language throughout the casting and also at times in their background effects. That was a big risk to modify the play the times that they did, luckily it was a great move. The core concept of the play is “The Dream Theme.” An African American family chases the American Dream. Walter Lee wants to pursue a business venture as momma informs him, “we don’t come from a line of business people, we are workers.” This shows the generational conflict between him and momma. It was good to see Travis, as a young boy, was interested in work at such an early age. Think I’ll let my children join me next time, especially for that portion of the playJ. This is one of the ethical lessons passed down to him (Travis) from the family. Although Walter was emasculated most of the play, I always enjoy his defining moment of manhood when he has to turn down Mr. Linder’s provocative financial incentive in order to teach his son some sense of morality, that up until that point, unfortunately, Walter fails to exhibit much of. Let’s not forget the sentimental value the plant has, I understand it to symbolize the hope and growth that momma looks forward to, verses a raisin that would ordinarily dry up in the sun, when their money leaves. Even after they experience despair, the plant is still there to symbolize hope and to express Ms. Younger as well. There is a multitude of valuable principles that one may grasp from this play. I learn something new every time I see it. It is truly a play that is not just historical but has many broad abstract ideas that will help one understand cultural behavior too.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Email Down
Hi guys,
I just discovered the notice on the sign in page telling us that student email is down today.
I didn't know if anyone else was having issues getting mail, but I thought I would tell you all in case anyone else didn't see the notice too.
I just discovered the notice on the sign in page telling us that student email is down today.
I didn't know if anyone else was having issues getting mail, but I thought I would tell you all in case anyone else didn't see the notice too.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
The Square
A little known fact about the balcony at the Civil Rights Museum is that the small square that is cut out of the concrete was where Dr. King's head lay after he was shot. The blood stains on that spot were so deep that they could not be cleansed, and they had to replace that small square. Standing at the window at staring at that square affects me deeply, and though this was my second trip to the museum I was deeply shaken afterward. The Square transports me to that evening, April 4th,1968. I am standing at the window looking out as Dr. King is standing on the balcony hollering down to the parking lot as his friends are leaving. I can see the gun barrel emerge from the window across the street, the crack of the rifle, Dr. King lying on the concrete. The reality of the death of maybe the most important man of the 20th century hits me like an atomic bomb, centered at the bleached concrete square on that tiny little balcony. The death of Dr. King will stain the history of Memphis like the blood stained square on the balcony, incapable of being cleansed. The problem is that we cannot just cut it away and replace it with a clean square, we have to learn to live with our city's jaded past and use the legend of Dr. King to move towards a more racially united Memphis.
Memphis Roller Derby
Saturday night I took a trip, through the pounding snow and iced over roads, downtown to the Fairgrounds. The reason for the treacherous journey was the Memphis Roller Derby. I was not very familiar with the roller derby, and to be honest i had no idea that they even played roller derby in Memphis. It was an interesting experience to say the least. The game consists of two teams of frighteningly tough women, clad in helmets, pads and mouthpieces, skating in circles trying to beat the crap out of each other. The crowd was much larger than I was expecting, and from what I could gather it was a smaller crowd than usual because of the weather. Besides the game their is also live music before the bout and during halftime. The halftime entertainment was a band called Noisechoir featuring STCC's own Lehman Sammons on the drums. If you are interested in the Roller Derby, check out their awesome website: www.memphisrollerderby.com.
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