cdkworld

Maybe this time.

2010-09-02T09:11:00.000-07:00

About a week ago I had a meeting with the director of "The Burmese Lion" to talk about the opening theme music. Up to that point I had done up three treatments for him to use, and he didn't think they were quite right. All had strong melodic themes and big orchestral sound, but didn't seem to be what he wanted. So I needed to talk to him face to face to try and understand what he was looking for. He said he is not musically inclined so he was having a hard time articulating what he wanted to hear musically. He brought in a few examples from other movies to show what he wanted and liked. My three previous ideas had big openings, and immediate melodic theme, but I could tell from his examples he was looking for more mystery, a way to sneak the melodic theme in at first, just to hint at it. Then a large fast build to the main theme played tutti. He had the example of the 1994 Alex Baldwin film "The Shadow" and after hearing the rather 90s opening it became clear about what he was looking for.

I then went to work and now I think we have it. I worked on the main theme again (Post to follow) more what he wants. He cut the opening credits and title to it and I'm happy to say I think this will work.

He had some concerns about levels and "Synthiness" of some of the instruments, which is to be expected. I need to just remember to fully finished the mixing and midi settings before I send a "Rough Draft" especially when I know that the people I'm sending it to have very specific ideas of what they like, and are not as experienced musically. People are so used to hearing the FULL production value of material now. When Directors use needle drops from other movies against their own picture it is hard for a composer to compete with that. The London Symphony orchestra is some hard competition to my little midi set up.

But all that being said I think this will work, I'll post the results when I get home, and put some of the other ideas up that I came up with first.

Till next time...

Starting again, Fall

2010-08-24T13:38:00.000-07:00

Okay gearing up for fall and the musicals and writing that will happen. I'm going to try and blog more about the music writing process.

I'm currently writing the music for a web series that will be coming out soon from Devilish Motion Pictures "The Inspector Jimmy" series. I'm very excited about this project, it's done in the film noir style, and I get to write some great orchestrated pieces. So look for that soon!

I'll be adding more as I tackle different parts of the web series.

A day off

2007-05-20T13:31:00.000-07:00

The day off. It's been a long long week. We've just finished Tech week here in Chemainus. Many a 12 hour day the last few days. So as you can imagine I'm tired, it's been very stressful, I seem to be taking it out on my body though. My jaw feels locked, and I can't relax it. Even though it's been a long few days, the pay off is good. We had a good run yesterday, and we got a lot done. The show will be great and people will really like it. Everyone in the cast and crew is working their butts off to make this a great production. They only complaint I have... well one of the main concerns is the size of my band platform. We can barely fit a keyboard in there, and I have 5 musicians at any given time. We've had to move musician down to the floor on the stage left side. I'm so happy to just be doing nothing today, though it's raining of course. There is supposed to be a BBQ at Alex (SM) and Sam's house today, but... who knows.. as you can see.. he's not happy about pictures being taken...
So I'm off to the bank, and to get some groceries. Hope the weather clears.
CK

The first rehearsals "Anything Goes"

2007-04-26T10:52:00.000-07:00

On March 12th I had a one off rehearsal with the leads of Anything Goes. It was just a music rehearsal so my plan was to just sing through the solos and duets and maybe get to some harmony work. I thought it went very well and I was looking forward to starting officially on Sunday April 8th (Easter Sunday) So the Sunday and Monday came where again I was alone doing music. The first day I went through all the harmonies and solos again and I saved Monday for the real test... adding the instruments. Monday went very well considering I hadn't heard anyone play their instruments at all. I had know idea if they were beginners or advanced players. I was very thankful to hear that everyone was very competent. We managed to get though the whole show playing and working out who will be playing what where. Todd and I had to pre-block the show on paper so we would know who would be available to play at any given time. I'm so glad we did. It helped so much. After getting through a long Monday, we ended and I came back to Vancouver to see Jenn and get ready for the official meet-and-greet on Friday.

After a rough Ferry ride on that Friday to get back to the island we got in a bit later they I had hoped. Daniel Pitout who came for the ride, needed to get to his place before we could go to the rehearsal hall. We got there about 15 minutes late, and we found ourselves walking into the room in front of all the production staff of the theatre and all the cast facing them ready to start.. already waiting for us.... OOPS! Oh well it didn't matter we got right on and did a read through and sing though of the show. It was a lot of pressure, even though you know that people are not really expecting anything close to perfection, it still feels like they are expecting to be entertained. So I found myself playing like it was a show. After that, things seemed much calmer, we settled down and the production staff talked about all their business ie. Costumes, sets, sound etc. Everything looks and will be great. After the speeches we got down to blocking. We are very short on time with the rehearsals only 3 days a week we don't get as much done as we would like before we have to stop.

We've now blocked the show going into our 4th week of rehearsals. It's coming along great. This is always a crazy time for Actors and directors. It's that time where we just run the show, and it either platous or it reaches higher, and gets better all the time. I have a feeling this show is get better and sound better all the time. I can understand how some people can't see the light sometimes because it seems like such a daunting task, but I've worked in tighter situations with much less talented people and we've weaved gold. I think we'll be great.

Todd Talbot is directing, and he's doing a great job. I love to work with different people and see what kind of style they use. I think his is perfectly set to do a show like this under such a tight time frame. He's efficient and purposeful about the work. And the choreography will look beautiful.

Today is Thursday and I'm heading back for rehearsals tomorrow morning bright and early. I will update you on any new and fun developments in the near future. I hope you all can come and see the show which opens in just under a month. See you all soon

CK

From the Big Easy to the Big Disney... Watch them Wednesday 7pm

2007-04-23T23:27:00.000-07:00

YES as Amanda pointed out I haven't written my feelings on the game. The Canucks won the game if you haven't heard. It was a really important game for so many reasons, but one mostly: How would we pull through as a team the history of Canuck disappointments and finish a team off. The Canucks pulled out a big team effort, topped only by the highlight of Trevor Linden scoring the go-ahead goal. He's the league's 7th game clutch player, and it was a perfect moment for me to see. SO ON TO THE DUCKS, and the back story of the Duck's current and former Canuck GM Brian Burke and his protege and now Canuck GM Dave Nonis. They are going head to head in the playoffs... SO EXCITING. We get to enjoy the Canucks run for at least another 4 Games.

As for me, I have so much to tell about all the rehearsals and island life here in Chemainus, but I have been so busy doing it, I haven't had much of a chance. I'll have to collect my thoughts and put them down for you in a day or two. Look for the next chapter: "The first rehearsal" soon.

Well I'm catching the 10:30 Ferry tomorrow back to Vancouver for a couple of days until my next rehearsal on Friday.

Later.

CK

6pm puck drop---->

2007-04-23T18:00:00.000-07:00

It's 6pm on Monday April 23 2007 Canucks are in Game 7 of the first round series against the Dallas Stars. I know I haven't written for a little while, but if we will tonight, I will write back right after the game and let you know how I'm doing... I'm not quite sure how I'm doing right now until the end of the game.... See you soon... at about 8:30pm

Cross your fingers.

CK

De Wiz

2007-03-24T11:46:00.000-07:00

Wednesday morning was another great event. We had a few friends to De Dutch again for a some food and frivolity. Jim, Pam, Randy, Helen, Jenn, Ryan, Scott, and me, had a great time chatting about theatre, golf, computers, vacations... you name it. I'm hardly old, but I've known for quite a few years now, that as I get older these moments are the ones you look back on. When I was younger you think that going out to a club, drinking and partying is how you have a good time. But now I know that waiting in line at a club is not the idea of a good time when I could be at home with some friends talking, and making memories is more fun. I'm glad I have good friends who agree with me. We all stayed and talked for a couple of hours. Jenn was having a good time so she decided to miss half and hour of her class at school to stay a bit longer. Thanks to all that attended, and we hope to get out more people next time. Hey, maybe we should turn it into a fundraiser!!.. well maybe not! but see you there.

On Thursday we went to "The Wiz" at Cap college. We had a few friends in the show, so we were excited to see it. I haven't seen a staged version of the show before, so this was a new one for me also. I had talked to Shelley the choreographer earlier in the day so I knew she would be there to watch some of the show. I'm glad she was there, I haven't seen her for a long time. Ryan and SAS joined us for the show, and we all got ticket together.

The show was... good. Now before you say anything, I actually mean it. I definitely was not my favorite show. The show itself is not that strong. Yes it's the basic story of the Wizard of Oz, but it was intended to be an all black cast, which this show was not. So there was "black" dialogue and situations written into the script that was intended for the time period in which it was written. These things get a little lost on a mostly white, Vancouver audience. If we were black living in New York in the 70s, these things might have rung more true. Now there were other elements that were GREAT! First the band was good, Kevin had a good mix of players, and the score is fun and upbeat with some perfect throw back with Wa Wa guitar and funky string lines. The balanced mix of mics covering the band was good I wished Kevin had stuck around after the show longer so I could tell him myself how much I enjoyed the band. Our friends in the show were great. Michaela Scott as the Lion was adorable, and was perfect for the role. All the dancers were great and I very much enjoyed Shelley's choreography throughout the show. But a special mention goes out to Brandyn Eddy as the Scarecrow. He had a great relaxed style that was exactly what the show needed, his voice sounded great and his movements were ideal. Good Job! And lastly the costumes were very well done also, with a program of so many students, Gillian has done a great job incorporating new parts into shows, and making the students create characters themselves. I enjoyed the "Tornado," and the "Yellow Brick Roads" The idea works and it adds some life an colour into the show.

Finally I would like to say that the biggest shame about the show was the lack of volume from the vocal mics. People often say to me as a music director, is the band to loud or are the actor's not singing clearly. Well I can say in the production of the Wiz that the band was a good level, it's a funky rock show, so the sound should be in your face, but the vocal mics were just too low. I don't know why they didn't turn them up. They didn't seem to have any problems with feedback, they weren't pushing it too much. With a show like this where the vocals for the girls is low most of the time the sound mixer needs to help them get up over the band. That's my only real criticism about the Cap show, besides the show itself, which they can't help. They students did a great job regardless. Can't wait for the next one!

Banana Boys

2007-03-20T16:03:00.000-07:00

Saw Banana Boys on Saturday. Jenn and I went to see the show at the Firehall Theatre for the Matinee. Our friend Vince, and Rick, were both in the show so we were excited to see it. I knew going in that the show revolves around 5 men of Chinese decent, and their friendship in Canada. In case you don't get the banana boys reference it means yellow on the outside and white on the inside. I thought the show was well writen, but it had a few flaws. First of all I thought both Vince and Rick were great. Not just because they are friends of mine, but they were truly good. The same can be said for 2 of the other friends: The writer, and the friend who can't stop calling his girlfriend. The long and the short of it is, the character who is supposed to be the "lead" was a let down. The role could have been played so much better. I feel that at the end of the show, where we as an audience are supposed to be invested emotionally, we just weren't at the state of caring for him at all. The role is played up to be a very important point of the plot and helps change the other characters at the end. It just didn't happen. Please, Please... if you want to convince an audience that the character is a tough, driven business man that would do anything to succeed including taking so many uppers that he might die. PLEASE cast an actor that can play straight. I do not believe a man with a lisp, talking about having sex with multiple women. I can not suspend my disbelief enough to buy it. We live in Vancouver, and it's 2007, we know that gay people exist. As and audience member I can no longer think that he just has "feminine" qualities. We have broken down those Taboos, where we just don't talk about "it" anymore. It's not 1945 mid west America. I want to congratulate all the other actors in the show for their performances. There was some great acting moments. I wish they had shortened that show a bit though, too much manufactured anger at the end. I'm sad to say the show closed Saturday evening so people can't see it anymore. I am glad that the Firehall is putting on good Canadian content that isn't just about the prairies, and "Canadian" dialogue.

My first rehearsal!

2007-03-16T21:18:00.000-07:00

So I had my one off rehearsal on Monday, with the cast of "Anything Goes," and it went really well. I was so apprehensive about meeting all the leads, because I haven't seen or met most of them before. I caught the 10:30 ferry from Horseshoe Bay, which got me into Naniamo at 12:10, so I was tight for time as it is. So I arrived just in time for the rehearsal to start. As I walked in they were all sitting around the keyboard waiting for me to arrive. It's times like these where I suddenly remember that I'm not 45 years old and that's about the age they think I'm going to be. It's the funny looks on their faces when I walk in sometimes. It always take people a few seconds for it to sink in that I'm not what they had in mind. After a bit of discussion we got down to business. The rehearsal went very well and I got more done then I was hoping for, so that is a great help. Now I must continue my adventure into arranging all the instrument parts for the cast to play.

It was nice to see my parents for the evening after the rehearsal. I helped my dad get a new bed that my parents had bought at the local auction. It's so nice of them, It's a bigger bed then the one they have currently so it will be awesome. So a few more weeks before I head off, so there are soooo many things to get ready before I go.

I'm so happy about my boys.. those Canucks. They are holding on to the 3rd in the West with only a few more games to go. They will make the playoffs this year, and they totally deserve it. They are solid, and I'm so happy to see some success. This city needs it from them.

The house is a mess, man I wish I would just get off my ass and clean sometimes. It's just so much effort to start. Jenn's out seeing another show for her classes at school, so I think I might go and pick her up and get some food. Thanks for listening.

Something worth mentioning

2007-03-03T15:52:00.000-08:00

Living on the west coast of Canada, I'm aware of environmental issues. I know about Global Warming and it's impact on our planet. When I was in high school we recycled and knew it was a good thing. I have always had one question about Global Warming... Can we solve the problem? If we do the "right" things will the planet survive, will we even make a difference? Will there be a winter, spring, summer and fall? And can I visit the places on earth that are so beautiful forever? I've been sad because the answers have always been foggy. The media has never known what to say. They distort and report the horrible stories about our impending doom, without any sign of hope. I have always thought to myself that if someone would just tell me the earth will be okay if we act now, then I'll believe them. But I'm always amazed to find that there is no one that will say it. I just wanted to say that no matter what kind of person he is, whether he is motivated for the right reasons or not, Al Gore, should be thanked for his efforts. I watched "An Inconvenient Truth" today, and I'm so happy as a human being that this movie exists as a testament to a man's drive and dedication to an important issue. He answered my questions in an informative and shocking way. He said that we can make a difference that it's not too late if we do what we can, and we have the tools now to start. That was all I needed to know to believe. I think others must feel the same. I do hope everyone can see the film and at least talk about the issues. Thanks Al. You deserve the praise and accolades.

I'm free

2007-03-01T15:22:00.000-08:00

I'm finished at Long and Mcquade and today is my official first day off from work. I have to admit I was a little sad saying goodbye to my friends at work. I was leaving, and I just stood up and said "Okay, looks like I'm heading off now" and they were so nice and encouraging, but it was a little hard to say bye. They have been nice enough at L & M to say that I can pretty much have my job back if I want it when I return from Chemainus. I think that's so great of them, but I hope that I won't have to come back. It was great getting to know my co-workers, but I don't think I'll miss the day to day things at work.

So I'm taking some time off before I go to Chemainus, to get all my prep done for the show. There is so much to do. I have to play through the score and decided who will play which instruments where, and who will sing what. I have to do a lot of reorchestration just to make it all work. I'm looking forward to it all, but it's a little daunting to think about right now.

I have to move back in with the parents again. It's sort of funny to think about. I will be in a seperate suite, but it's still my parents, so we'll see how it goes. I'm not looking forward to leaving Jenn here to finish school, and stay for the summer. We both like our place where we live that we don't want to leave it. So Jenn is staying to keep it, and work during the time off from school. I'm happy cause she might get a roommate to move it while I'm gone, but we'll see if that works out.

I'm so glad to know that TUTS is on again, and by the sounds of how many people showed up for the auditions, it should be a great couple of casts they get. It's such an important Vancouver institution and I'm thrilled they are now running with a new board, and with the knowledge that they are important to the theatre community. I hope you all get in if you're auditioning, and I can't wait to catch a few of the shows this summer when I come back from the island. I have to admit though I'm sad that I couldn't Musical Direct this summer, but I'm happy that I'll get to enjoy watching too.

Hope you all have booked your time to Chemainus to come and get me out of my boredom. Oh and see the show. Let me know.

C to the K

So Long and Mcquade... soon

2007-02-12T23:55:00.000-08:00

So 2 more weeks until I'm done at Long and Mcquade. I gave my notice a week ago, so I would be able to have enough time to get all my prep done for Chemainus. I handed in my letter of resignation and I was a little sad. I've enjoyed my job here it was great to meet so many great people and contacts in a different field of work. I had thought about asking for a "leave" from the job, but I don't think it would fly being 6 months, but who knows what will happen when I'm done in Chemaninus and broke! Speaking of my work, I was alone today in the choral and band music department. My two co-workers were away today, so I had to hold the fort myself. I'm not that comfortable taking band music calls, because I never really played in highschool band so I don't know the "teacher lingo" that Greg knows. I found that I was much better today, much better then the last time I had to do it alone. The best part of the day was having something to do for the whole day. Most days when the others are there, we all work hard till about 3pm, then there is nothing to do for the rest of the day, and we JUST ran out of make-work-projects we made for ourselves. Now our days end consists of looking up stuff on the net. YAY!

I watched the 2 hour episode of 24 tonight... it was great. So much happened it was hard to take it all in. So many interweaving stories it gets hard to keep it straight. Plus after Jenn and I watched Heroes when she got home. That one is even harder to keep straight... I find that I'm mixing story lines up between the shows. Especially now they both have to do with an explosion. I love Monday nights now.

So I've joined facebook. I have to say it's MUCH better designed then MySpace, and it's more interesting to see all the people's activities updated constantly. So thanks ladies for the join, I likes it. So if you haven't "Friended" me yet.. come on over.

Oh I ordered pizza tonight also, cause I didn't want to leave the house with all the TV excitement going on. I called 310-0001 and ordered myself a medium pepperoni pizza and wings. Wow I forgot how crappy food can make you feel sometimes. I love eating there's no doubt, but pizza is a little like Mcdonald's, it seems like a good idea right up till when you actually eat it, then you ask yourself why did you do it.... Then you go back and do it again the next day. I REALLY have to start eating better. And exercise! OH that reminds me if you read this blog and you want to play some tennis let me know, I need to find some more people to play with.. Let me know.

Jenn's not feeling well, she's working really hard to finish these assignments she has to do for school, but she says she's so sick her "Heads gone soft" I think that's not true, but she is sick so someone send her some E-Vitamin C.

Goodbye

Mixed Emotional Weekend

2007-01-23T00:18:00.000-08:00

Hello everybody. Sorry about the crazy time off from blogging. SO MUCH has happened. A great weekend. Thursday night I stepped in and played piano for the Applause Musicals 101 (Jerome Kern) We only had one rehearsal before Thursday night performance. So it was a little stressful, but we got through and the performers were great. After the Thursday performance we had to do it again on Friday night at the West Vancouver Public Library. It was so much more relaxed then Thursday, so we had a better time and the audience just loved it. I hope Applause can do it again in West Van.

Saturday night was a GREAT party! Kaylee's Birthday party was so good, it was Black Tie, so we all dressed up and it was a perfect mix of people, and it seems to be easier to talk to people when they look beautiful for some reason.

Sunday is one of my days off from work, so I really enjoyed sleeping in. Since hockey is on a break cause of the All Star Game on Wednesday, I decided to watch the NFC and the AFC football finals. It was so nice to just watch TV. But after that I had to attend a friends funeral service. Zeyn Ali passed away last week and Jenn and I went to a beautiful service. It was sad, but very well done. I was so happy to see so many people attend. There were some wonderful people there I haven't seen for a long time. It's always unfortunate that such occasions bring people together. I wish I had known Zeyn better, I wish I could have helped. Wishes are sad sometimes.

Bye Zeyn. You'll be missed.

3 hour wait, but a great time on the is land.

2006-12-27T01:24:00.000-08:00

Back from the island and all the holiday joy. Had a good time with the family, but we had reservations for the 9pm ferry, got there at 7:30. We waited, and then there was an announcement "Ferry will arrive at the terminal at 9:55." So we didn't board the ferry until 10pm. We got home at 12:30. I hate Ferries. There's no excuse to be late. I mean it's their job, I'm not asking them to build spaceships or make the cure for cancer or anything. Just want them to be on time. No one would take the ferries if they could, everyone knows it's just a pain. It just makes me think a bridge is a great idea.

Besides the hold up we enjoyed ourselves. I hope you all had a great day and evening.

BUT seriously... STOP with the food, I love it so much, but just stop putting it in my face.. I can't help it. I'll eat it...

AND NO MORE CHOCOLATE NEXT YEAR..

Love you all.

CK

Yes... It's True! It's Chris. T. Mas

2006-12-23T18:49:00.000-08:00

So here it is. Merry Christmas! I'm so happy to be off of work for a consecutive 3 days. So far the snow hasn't come back for the holiday. I'm a little sad about it. I would like it to snow on Christmas again. So Jenn and I are going to the island on Monday morning to stay with my parents for the evening and back on Tuesday night. I've never traveled ON Christmas day before, but apparently no one does so it shouldn't be too manic getting to Duncan. I just managed to get my last Christmas presents today, a little late I know, but I didn't have any money until today, so I had to budget it out. I love Christmas just not being broke. It seems like I had more money when I was younger to spend on presents. Or maybe I'm just getting cheaper in my old age.

I'm taking the bus now more then I ever had as a kid. I take it to work, and it hasn't been too bad, but the big problem with the bus is that I always want it to come right away. Not like 10 minutes or 30. Whenever the bus driver feels like coming. I know it's not a lot of money to take the bus, but It still slow and I'm just not use to it. I do enjoy not having to sit in traffic though.

Not sure what Jenn and I are doing tonight, but there is wrapping for me to do, and there seems to always be knitting for Jenn to do. So we might just stay in and do nothing. Could be a nice change. It's a little strange that it's a Saturday night though.. doesn't feel like one at all. I hope you all have a wonderful break and Christmas... eat and feel Merry. Just make sure she's drunk enough first.

Hark.. I hear Christmas.

CK

De Dutch panaCanuck house on a Wednesday

2006-12-13T11:22:00.000-08:00

Wednesday! My day off. I love De Dutch! Jenn and I came this morning for food and coffee. It's right by our house at 16th and Oak. If you've never been to one I advise it. But really the only good one is ours. I've been coming here for 5 years, and they know what I like to eat and they all know my name. Ha! I sound like a loser, but it's really a nice feeling. We've lived in this area for a few years now, and I love it. I originally come from the North Shore, and when I lived there, I thought Downtown and uptown were a foreign country. Now after living here for a while I can't imagine living anywhere else.

So I finally have all my evenings free... Hmmm so strange. It's a little unnerving having nothing to do. I feel like I'm late for something all the time, and that I'm not getting stuff done. I'm happy to get to see the Canucks struggle to be a hockey team more often now though. They won their game last night with a convincing win over Phoenix. Not exactly a hard team to beat, and our record against them is almost perfect, but still for us to score more then 2 goals a game was a bit of a relief. Everyone played well Morrison had a strong game where he was taking chances and looking more comfortable in his skates then I've seen for a long time. There were strong contributions on the blue line too, especially Bieksa who had a strong game and a hot point shot all night. Bulis also contributed with his 3rd goal in 3 games, and almost added a 4th. Linden who has been under fire a bit this season because he is a poster child for the troubles the Canucks have had this year, had a strong game also. I thing that Trevor had actually had a very strong showing this season despite the paycut, the reduced ice time, and lack of goals. He has been finishing checks, making smart plays, and he's skating well. People forget sometimes what an amazing playmaker, and passer he is. He sees the ice really well. My only wish is that he take the glory sometimes and shoot when he had the chance. He was looking for the pass all night last night, and at times it was a good idea, and others it wasn't the best thing. He needs to use his size and hands to get those pucks in the goal himself and take the glory a bit more.. but maybe that the whole thing about trevor we like, he's always been a shadow to the greatness that a team can be. Just picking his moments and choosing the "right" thing to do.

So maybe a show this Spring. I'm trying to produce something soon, so I'll keep you all updated on the idea soon. Hope you're all well and getting that shopping done! I only got ONE suggestion for gifts from the last blog.. so come on people tell me what your getting people.. I need HELP!

CK

A little snow, and the end of a show.

2006-11-29T22:33:00.000-08:00

Well my voice is back! Yay! I haven't been that sick for so long. So I'm thrilled that it's over. But it's too bad that Fiddler is now over. What a great show. I was so proud to be involved with a great cast and crew. It also looks as though the audiences were pretty big too. Thanks to everyone that came out to see it. It really means a lot for you to support community theatre.

So it's snowing. HA! I don't remember the last time it snowed this much let alone in November. I have to admit though that I love snow, it makes it feel like Christmas. Just a little too early this year. I would like it to be a white Christmas just once, and maybe this will be the year. Jenn and I went to dinner tonight at a local place just up the street on Oak called "The Best Neighborhood Restaurant." Not bad food for super cheep, and we walked in the snow. It was so nice, a little cold on the face, but I hope we can do that more while the snow lasts. HEY! and what's the big deal with using an umbrella in the snow? It's still wetness falling from the sky, and the umbrella can keep you dryer. People give me a hard time about it, but I just don't get it.. can someone explain that to me?

I have to now get all my shopping done so I don't stress about presents this year. I wish I was an early shopper, but I just don't do it. I'll get some done soon.

Jenn and I finally watched The Da Vinci Code tonight. I read the book so long ago now I had almost forgot it all. It was quite good actually. I enjoy mystery/history movies and books. I watch Documentaries all the time, and I used to love this show called "Mysteries of the Bible" on A & E. I've never been religious, but I love the mystery of religion, so much I actually thought about being a religious scholar just to work on solving the unknown mysteries in the bible. Maybe one day... HAHA.. right after I write my first symphony. Hope you're all well. Let me know what you all are getting your parents/significant others for Christmas.. I need some ideas.

Piece

Where's my voice?

2006-11-20T21:47:00.000-08:00

I hate loosing my voice. Wow it's the worst feeling. It's such a part of life that we take for granted. I hope it returns soon.

So Quintessence Musicals had their fundraiser last night, and it was a lot of fun. Guilty Pleasure played and I was so upset cause I couldn't sing at all, but it was fun anyway. Jenn sang and she was great, I was so proud of her she really was awesome. I hope that they were successful making some money for the company. Also my student Emily came and sang "Hit Me With Your Best Shot" I wanted her to have the experience of singing with a band. That is something she really wants to do, so I'm really happy she got the chance to sing.

Fiddler is going into it's last week now, and my parents and brother are coming to see it on Wednesday night. I hope they like it. And I hope that if you haven't seen it yet you'll come out and support a great cast.

I'm very happy about not doing anything this evening, it's been nice to just not talk and just watch some TV. But I realized that I haven't eaten anything for dinner, so I might just make my way to the Subway and get a sub... I'll let you know how it went.

A great show, and thanks to some great people!

2006-11-16T23:46:00.000-08:00

What a great show tonight. After a show last night where I didn't have any trumpets or a flute, having all the orchestra there tonight makes a huge difference. The show was much tighter too. The cues were picked up faster, and the scene changes were better. Please come see the show you'll love it.

So I'm producing for Footlight Theatre next year, and we are in the midst of applying for the rights for a few shows. I'm really looking forward to helping out such a great company. They gave me my first music directing job, and I'm proud to say that this is my 5th year MDing for them. It's going to be a little overwhelming stepping into some pretty big shoes following Pam's departure as producer, but I'm happy for the challenge. I want to take this opportunity to say thank you to Pam, and Jim for all their tireless hard work and focus. They are the heart of Footlight theatre, and it will be difficult to see them go, but they deserve the break. I'm proud to just know these two people, they gave me a chance without knowing me very well, and they have gone far above the call of duty to make Footlight Theatre a group that everyone creative should wish to be a part of. Thanks you so much.

So everyone please come and audition for the show next year.. whatever it may be.. I will post and let you all know when we get the okay for the show.

Thanks to everyone in the cast of Fiddler for doing such a great job, it's getting better, and I'm proud for this to be my last Footlight MD job.. for a while anyway. Well I'm off to sleep and back to work at Long and McQuade. Come on in to the hastings store and say hi if you can.

later.

2 Shows complete.. and a lack of scoring.

2006-11-12T11:01:00.000-08:00

2 shows done, and a matinee today before we take a break until Wednesday night. The opening and 2nd show of Fiddler went very well, we had 2 great audiences and everything went off well. Well almost everything. Besides the usual theatre hi-jinks that happen, the closing scene of opening night had it's own crazy moment. As Tevye leaves with his cart at the end of the show he is supposed to pause and see the "Fiddler" as he plays the familiar tune. As we were coming to this part, I realized that Tevye was going to get to his mark earlier then usual so I indicated to the orchestra that we are going to end early... just as I did that the cart Tevye pulls crashed, the wheels and axle came right out from under it!! so the orchestra kept vamping, and there was this moment... it felt like it could have been a few years by the time is was over. Finally Motel (Dan Wilhelm) came to help him out trying to put this cart together again. It was a lost cause with just 2 of them though, it's a big cart. So the 2 of them decided it was best to just leave the hulking disaster and exit. Luckily some of the audience thought it was part of the show.. somehow this was another one of God's little tricks he plays on poor Tevye. Maybe it was... Other then that moment the shows have been great. I'm so proud of everyone. This is a hard show to do and everyone has really stepped up on this one.

On another note. Those damn Canucks! I love them but I could just kill them. Just one year I would like to be happy about hockey.. just one. I'm almost happy I have to miss watching the games because of the show nights, just so I can miss the pain. Poor Scott Knight keeps taping the games then watching them later. Sorry Scott it's just delaying the inevitable sadness. Well here's hoping for a change in the wind for them. Maybe they will get their D men back soon, and have some scoring materialize!!

COME SEE THE SHOW!

The season

2006-11-08T11:54:00.000-08:00

Here I am at Esquire's Coffee (16th & Oak) enjoying my coffee and free internet access thinking about the season. I realize how much I enjoy this time of year. It's cold, bright mostly, and it's closer to Christmas now. I'm glad I live in Vancouver and can enjoy my day off from work. I took Wednesdays off because I'm teaching these days at 2, but at least I can sleep in. So we are in the most entertaining part of theatre production... The last days of Tech. It's painful but necessary. The orchestra is sounding great, but we are just adjusting to fitting into a very small space behind the actors, and in a small house looking set piece. Having 2 trumpets play in your ear is pleasant for about one song, then it's a little hard to deal with. So we open on Friday, and there is another rehearsal tonight, so get your tickets now if you can. And if you can come on a Wednesday it's 5 bucks off, and we will need the audience midweek. Hope you're all doing well and enjoying your own Fall season, maybe with a coffee and computer.... maybe at an Esquire's.. maybe at THIS Esquire's... hey... stop following me.

2006-11-01T22:54:00.000-08:00

Fiddler on the Roof is starting soon, and we're in crunch week. The Sitsprobe is tomorrow, and I'm a little stressed about it. Every year has it's orchestra challenges and this one isn't any different. I have found most of the musicians way ahead of time, but there is always one instrument that gives me trouble. Last year it was Violin, but this year it was drums! You would think it would be easy to find a drummer that would be happy to play for some money, but nope, I guess not. So now thanks to our "Fiddler" Renee we might have found one, but he has never seen the music, and I don't even know if he reads or not, and tomorrow is the sitprobe. It's starting to look more like a glorified rehearsal not a sing with the cast. But I was really happy with the last orchestra rehearsal despite the lack of percussion. SO after that great sales job I did for the show, I hope everyone comes to see it. I have never been involved in a production of this show, so I was very happy to find through the rehearsal process that it's becoming one of my favorite shows. I can easily see why it is such a classic. It is such a well written piece of theatre, right from the music to the touching yet funny story. Remember the show runs Wednesday's to Sunday's November 10th to the 26th. Such a great cast too. Come see my Crazy Wife play Fruma Sarah, and we all love that Assalone girl who I'm so proud of. SEE YAS THERE. L'chaim!

Post Birthday, and WTF MySpace?

2006-10-14T14:09:00.000-07:00

First off, Thank you to everyone that commented on Blog, it was really sweet and it really made my last few days. Thanks again. Okay so is it just me, or is MySpace possibly the worst designed piece of shit on the net. It's slow, looks like a programmer threw up on his keyboard and acts like the kid in highschool that was so popular and arrogant because he use to bully people only to find out later in life that he is ugly, balding, and in a dead end job. It's unbelievable that a site so disfunctional is so popular. It must be because people just don't know any better. It's too bad it's not like Blogspot, which is beautiful and functional. Oh well.. a little rant for yas. As for me, I've had a great time the last few days. I originally didn't want anyone to know about my birthday, being 29 and all, but now I'm really happy people did find out. I haven't felt this nice on my birthday for a long time, thanks to my friends and Jenn. They really made it seem like I was wanted and important. So last night I played piano and attended the Footlight Theatre's 40th anniversary gala at the Shadbolt Centre. It was great to see a whole bunch of people I haven't seen in a while, and I was one number away from winning some door prizes. Well a gloomy day in Vancouver today, not just because of the weather, but because the Canucks lost last night. Hope you're all having a good day, and if you have big plans on this Saturday have a drink for me. OUT.

B-Day! Post

2006-10-12T00:48:00.001-07:00

It's my birthday! I'm kind of happy about it actually. I didn't think I was going to be, but I'm looking forward to going for a walk on the beach in Kits with a coffee, and a book. Sound like a good day to me. I also have to enjoy the weather while I can, it's supposed to turn ugly on Saturday. So think of me.. think of me fondly... the day of my birth. OH and you people should come out and see Dane and me do our lounge gig on Wednesday nights at Chianti's restaurant on Burrard and 4th from 7 to 10pm. Tonight was rocking.

The Kootenay Ice

2006-10-10T00:24:00.000-07:00

We have returned from Cranbrook with a new appreciation for the mundane. I have found I like Vancouver more now then just a few days ago. The 3 bars ranch that was our resting place from Friday to Monday morning was beautiful and refreshing in that way that only a rustic setting could be. After returning home on another calm 1 hour and 20 minute flight, I feel that this place is more my style with all it's lattes, traffic and TV. The most tragic of all is the fact that Cranbrook being so close to the Alberta county area, they care not for the Canucks NHL ice hockey team and instead fill their airways with the play-by-play stylings of the Cootney Ice, a junior ice hockey team. Sad. I know. I've also had enough of family for now also, though it was so great to have the opportunity to get closer to family that I haven't been able to know that well. Back at home now, had a huge Alaskan King Crab for dinner with Jenn's family for her dad's birthday. They brought it out alive just for show, and then went back, and cooked the poor sucker... YUM.... Crab. My birthday is coming up on Thursday also, so remember to have a drink for me. A short teaching day tomorrow, then Fiddler rehearsal at night. Until next time. See yah

Cold weather, warm feelings

2006-10-08T10:16:00.000-07:00

Sunday morning in Cranbrook, and it's freezing. Michael and Jodie's wedding was yesterday under a beautiful blue sky and warm weather. It was a wonderful ceremony, and it was great to share the day with them and my other relatives. The 3 Bars ranch is beautiful, with log cabins around the perimeter all set in a shallow valley. We have one more evening here and then we are going to go to the airport early tomorrow morning to see if we can fly out earlier then 8pm, which we are booked on. There are only 2 flights out of Cranbrook one at 11:30, and ours at 8pm. So I hope we can get on the stand-by flight. Jenn and I will be home tomorrow, so I can't wait to finally see another Canuck game... I hate having no TV. Hope everyone had a great Thanks Giving, and don't forget to NOT call me on my birthday on the 12th. BYE!

TUTS vs. Chemainus

2006-10-06T01:21:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I really wanted to musical direct TUTS this year.. I was so excited, but I didn't know if I was going to be asked to and if it was even going to go ahead. SO that being said, I'm very thrilled to be part of Anything Goes in Chemainus starting in April. I auditioned 2 weeks ago, and I've been offered a chorus part, but more importantly I will be Musical Directing the show also. They want to have the actors in the show also BE the band. Sounds crazy right? Well it is, but also a very interesting challenge, and I'm so excited about it. I'll have to rearrange and teach parts to different actors who have limited skills on different instruments. OH and did I mention, it's a cast of 12! So that means at any given time, I'll maybe if I'm lucky have 3 people playing in the band for a show that's scored for 30 players. It's a little overwhelming at the moment, but we have time, and boy will we need it. The show will have to be pre blocked so we will know who will be on stage at any given time, and who will be available to play in the band, not to mention it's a huge dance show so if they aren't playing, they're dancing. WOW! So I hope everyone will be able to come out and see this crazy thing when it goes up, so wish me luck. Oh and it's a long contract, about 5 months all together, so I'll be living with the parents again... For a while, in Duncan. It will be nice to enjoy island life, but sad because Jenn has to be here to finish up school this year, but I will have time off so I can come back and visit. Well I'm off to Cranbrook tomorrow night for my cousin Michael's wedding. Later.

Check point 1 - October

2006-10-05T01:32:00.000-07:00

So it's almost here, my 29th year. October has always been a check point month for me. Yes my birthday is on the 12th, but it's not just because of that. Fall has started, cold usually comes soon, though it's been beautiful so far, and NHL season starts again. But it's always a time for me to reflect on the year that has past. Asking questions..."Did I actually do something worthwhile this year... " Etc. As the years move on, I'm left feeling as though I still don't know what I'm doing, and usually in the past I've been comforted by the knowledge that I'm still young and there is still so much time. But not anymore. As my birthday approaches I am coming to feel that I must make a decision as to my goals and future, and finally stop being the "Jack of all trades" that I am and focus my energy into something more permanent and profitable. I'm so happy for all the wonderful opportunities I have been fortunate enough to have, but now I must make my life actually work for me, and do something. Just one something. Something that I can be sure I'm good at, it's so hard to be objective about ones actual talents. Do you wish we could see ourselves as others do, without bias, and humility? I can only hope that when I choose I will choose right and not have to change horses in the middle of the stream. And I hope that my dreams can actually be a part of my plan, for that is why I'm struggling to make a decision, the fear of letting them go. Dreams though are just pieces though, but maybe that's all they ever are, pieces of the cobblestone, which we use for our path.

Putting to bed a generation!

2006-08-29T23:13:00.000-07:00

Oh the sadness of closing a show. It's crazy to think after such a short run, all the time spent and sweat poored that it's over. I leave "Waking Up A Generation" with a heavy heart. I have learned so much, and I'm so greatfull for the opportunity to stretch my creative muscles, and to perform again. But I am also very sad to leave, and to have such an emotional ride. I haven't felt this way since my very first show. I'm so happy with some of the personal relationships that I have forged with some of the cast and crew, but saddened by others relationships which have turned for the worst. I hate doubting that I'm a good person. But I am more confused then I have been in a long time. All I can hope is that time can help with the doubts, and that I can be a little happier again. And all I can think is that it was my fault. Thanks to everyone that came to support us, I'm more appreciative then I can ever express. I hope we can do a show again soon as Ignite!

After Opening Night!

2006-08-26T11:08:00.000-07:00

Opening night! Wow, as much as we had prepared for tonight, I never really imagined actually stepping foot on the stage, and doing the show. There is something very surreal seeing something you created up there being said by actors. I think the show was very well received, and everything came together in the end. I’m so proud of everyone involved, everyone shined, and I’m so happy that they were open to doing this show, and working through all the changes along the way. I hope that we have a good audience tonight for the second show, and that they are at least as warm as opening night. After such a crazy day yesterday, it was so nice to just sleep in this morning. Thanks to everyone who came last night, and if you haven’t see it yet, please come tonight or tomorrow!

WAKING UP A GENERATION

2006-08-01T23:39:00.000-07:00

Here is the show that we are doing at the end of August - come and check it out!

The show is a musical revue that features songs from newer musicals, such as "Wicked," "Light in the Piazza," "The...Spelling Bee," "Songs for a New World" and more! There is some amazing talent in the show, see bios and pics below...

COMPANY BIOS

Scott Carpenter (Frank) – Born and raised in Lethbridge, Alberta, Scott has been acting since he was a child. Originally a stage actor working in local community theatres, then as a professional actor with New West Theatre, he has performed in over 30 of their review shows. Scott moved to Vancouver 5 years ago and since then has starred in many musicals including “Cabaret” and “Jesus Christ Superstar” (Uncle Randy Productions), “The Music Man” (Royal City Musical Theatre), “Crazy for You” (Theatre Under the Stars), “Chess” and “The Bakers Wife” (Applause! Musicals), and “Working” (Footlight Theatre Company). Scott is thrilled to be involved in this collaborative production with these amazing actor and singers.

Shira Elias (Co-producer/Maria) – Shira is a 20-year-old performer whose passion is musical theatre and can be seen on stages through out Vancouver. She was most recently seen as Donna Marsala in Hoarse Raven’s Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding. In addition to musical theatre, Shira writes her own music and records in her spare time. She recently returned from training in New York and is attending the University of California at Irvine next fall for musical theatre.

Sarah Gay (Laurey) – Sarah has just completed her first year of life in Vancouver, and she is pleased that her life no longer includes freezing snow or stifling humidity. That’s right- she moved here from Toronto! While there, she attended RAPA for musical theatre performance and was seen in shows like Cabaret (New Yorker Theatre), As You Like It (CanStage), Really Great Hats (Alumnae Theatre), and at the Toronto Fringe Festival. In Vancouver, she has appeared twice with Applause! Musicals and performed at their Ovation Awards. This August she played Reno Sweeney in Pipedream Theatre Project’s production of Anything Goes. She can be seen this December in Gateway Theatre’s production of Emily.

Christopher King (Co-producer/Joey) – An avid singer, songwriter, and music teacher, Chris has performed for such companies as Gateway Theatre, Applause! Musicals in Concert, Theatre Under the Stars, Footlight Theatre, and Uncle Randy Productions. Past credits include Jackson in Pump Boys and Dinettes, Peter in Company, Reuben in Joseph, Ozzie in On the Town. In addition to performing, Chris also teaches voice and has been musical director for Footlight Theatre for their last four shows. His most recent works include: Flower Drum Song (Applause! Musicals in Concert) and Seussical the Musical, and the upcoming Fiddler on the Roof (Footlight Theatre).

Scott Knight (Musical Director) – Scott has been making music for more than 30yrs. He has studied at Cap. College, U.Vic., U.B.C., N.U.O.V.A. school for advanced studies in opera, and Tapestry New Opera in Toronto. He has worked for U.B.C. Opera, Burnaby Lyric Opera, Vancouver Academy Opera and toured with Vancouver Opera as Music Director and Pianist for over 250 performances of the Barber of Seville and La Cenerentola. In the world of Musical Theatre Scott has been Music Directing and teaching for more than 12yrs. Some of his favorite credits include Assassins and The Fantasticks with Quintessence Musical Theatre, conducting Carousel with Royal City, Hello Dolly with the Vancouver Playhouse, as well as West Side Story, Guys and Dolls and Cabaret. He has taught Music Theatre at Capilano College, Gateway Theatre, Arts Umbrella, C.Y.M.C. and the Chilliwack Academy of Music. He was nominated for a Jessie Richardson award for ‘Best Musical Direction’ for his work on Falsettos with Skycorner Productions. Scott is also a freelance pianist and enjoys working with many other groups including the Canadian Tenors and the V.I. Symphony. He is very proud to be a co-founder of A Little Knight Music, a Piano/Vocal studio on the North Shore of Vancouver.

Robert Markus (Billy) – Robert is thrilled to be a part of Ignite!’s first production! Robert was recently accepted into the University of Victoria’s 3 year Acting specialization program. Past performances include: Billy Crocker in Anything Goes with Pipedream, Ray in Tears of a Dinosaur for SATco Productions and Nick in BIG; the musical and Footloose with Theatre Under the Stars. Other Credits include: Present Laughter, Talk to Me Like the Rain…, 42^nd Street and Bye Bye Birdie. He is also a member of the performing group Showstoppers. Besides studying theatre, Robert is currently a student at the Victoria Conservatory of Music. Upcoming performances include: Father in Grimm Tales for SATco Productions and Dorset in Richard III at the Phoenix Theatre.

Eric Nelson (Tony) – Eric is thrilled to perform with a talented cast on a show with truly awesome contemporary music! Hailing from Regina, Saskatchewan, Eric moved to Vancouver last year after completing the Enriched Performing Arts Certificate Program at the Canadian College of Performing Arts in Victoria. He feels privileged to be living in a city rich with natural beauty and culture! Favourite roles include: Bob in The Saturday Night Club (Souris Valley Theatre), Dean Martin in Lost Vegas Live! (Aumentare Productions), and Swan in Cannibal! The Musical! (Three Schooner Productions). He would like to thank his wonderful family and friends for all of their ongoing love and support.

Nicole Stevens (Kim) – Nicole Stevens is 20 years old and recently spent a year in Victoria, where she studied at the Canadian College of Performing Arts. Her most recent credits include Seussical (Random Entertainment), Big the Musical (TUTS), and On Broadway (CCPA). Nicole also loves working with children. This past year she taught at the Lindbjerg Academy of Performing Arts and also worked with such high schools as Riverside Secondary and Centennial Secondary on their yearly musicals. She would like to thank her friends and family for all their love and support. Enjoy the show!

Jennifer Suratos (Co-producer/Nancy) – Jenn is a veteran in Vancouver community theatre, having performed on several stages in the Lower Mainland. She was last seen as the Sour Kangaroo in Seussical for CentreStage and Random Entertainment. Past credits include Linda Low in Flower Drum Song (Applause!), Tina Turner in Lost Vegas Live (Ovation Award Nominee), Soul Girl in Jesus Christ Superstar (Uncle Randy, and a gospel-singing Angel in The Most Happy Fag in the World (Raving Theatre). Jenn is preparing to enter the Masters in Theatre program at UBC this fall.

David Warburton (Stage Manager)

The first post

2006-06-29T21:17:00.000-07:00

I don't know what to say! Here is a blog about me, Chris. If you know me, then you know I like lots of stuff: theatre shows, politics, news, my struggles about being creative, the Canucks, and so on. But right now I am on my honeymoon in Hawaii, and I will go back to reading my novel and dreaming about the mai tai I will have with my dinner...

ck