Broadway To Vegas

Copyright: April 28, 2024
By: Laura Deni
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GRAMMYS ON THE HILL HONORS SHERYL CROW; SENATORS JOHN CORNYN AMD AMY KLOBUCHAR

Sheryl Crow. Photo: Wikipedia

The annual Grammys on the Hill will take place on April 30. Presented by the Recording Academy, this annual celebration of music and advocacy, bringing together congressional leaders and music makers to recognize those who have led the fight for creators' rights. Sponsored by City National Bank and benefiting the Grammy Museum, this year's awards will honor nine-time Grammy winner Sheryl Crow and Sens. John Cornyn (R-TX) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) for their contributions to support music creators. Hosted by singer and actress Candiace Dillard Bassett, the awards dinner will be held at the Hamilton Live in Washington, D.C., and will feature live performances and special guests.

"Protecting the rights of creators lies at the core of the Recording Academy's mission," said Harvey Mason jr., CEO of the Recording Academy. "GRAMMYs on the Hill is an opportunity to celebrate the artists and our nation's leaders who champion this cause, and to acknowledge music's unifying power. We're grateful to Sheryl and Sens. Cornyn and Klobuchar for their tireless efforts in safeguarding the music community and are thrilled to be recognizing them later this month in our nation's capital."

"Receiving this award from Recording Academy is a tremendous honor for me, because protecting the rights of creators is more important now than ever before," said Crow. "In this age where technology is changing the world faster than we can adapt, we need clear eyes to see both the opportunities and the challenges ahead, so that artists are not disadvantaged any more than they already are. Music nourishes our humanity, and I am proud to be recognized as an advocate for the protection of the people who make it."

Sen. John Cornyn. Photo: U.S. Senate Historical Office

"As a Texan, a love of live music is in my blood, and I've been proud to lead the charge on legislation that helps artists, entertainers, and venues meet the needs of their fans, including the Save Our Stages Act and the Fans First Act," said Sen. Cornyn. "I want to thank the Recording Academy for honoring me, and I look forward to continue to work on behalf of performers and fans across Texas and the nation."

"It's an honor to be recognized by the Recording Academy, an organization that uplifts performers, songwriters, and other music professionals in our country," said Sen. Klobuchar. "Music has the power to bring us together and it is something we can never take for granted. That’s why I fought to pass the bipartisan Save Our Stages Act with Senator Cornyn to ensure independent arts venues survived the pandemic, and why we are working together to improve the ticketing experience with the Fans First Act. There's nothing like live music and concerts, and I remain committed to ensuring artists can continue to share their music with the fans who love it."

Crow has dedicated much of her life to activism, supporting policies and philanthropic endeavors close to her heart. In 2000, she co-founded the Recording Artists' Coalition with previous Grammy on the Hill honoree Don Henley to protect creators' rights and change unfair industry practices. Her advocacy for artists and songwriters continued through congressional testimony, editorials, artist petitions, and more. In 2009, the Recording Artists' Coalition formeEvolution, which grapples with the future impact of artificial intelligence on humanity and the planet.

Sen. Amy Klobuchar. Photo: Office of Sen Klobuchar

Cornyn and Klobuchar are the congressional honorees being recognized for their stalwart support of creators and their collaborative efforts championing key policies in support of the music community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Sens. Cornyn and Klobuchar provided a critical lifeline for music through the Save Our Stages Act, which provided $16 billion in federal assistance to shuttered venues and represents the largest federal investment in the arts in U.S. history. In this Congress, they are working to reform live event ticketing through the Fans First Act. Introduced in December 2023, the legislation would address flaws in the ticketing marketplace by increasing transparency, protecting consumers from deceptive practices, and holding bad actors accountable.

The following day, May 1, the Recording Academy will host the annual Grammys on the Hill Advocacy Day, which brings current and past Grammy winners and nominees, along with other esteemed industry leaders, to meet with lawmakers to discuss issues facing today's music creators. The day is recognized as Capitol Hill's largest and most prestigious legislative event for music. This year, music creators will convene with members of Congress to advance key issues that the Academy and its members continue to advocate for, including:

Protecting the image, likeness and voice of individual creators from AI fakes through legislative measures such as the No AI FRAUD Act and the No FAKES Act discussion draft.
Reforming the live event ticket marketplace to better protect artists and fans through legislation including the Fans First Act and the TICKET Act.
For the first time in 2024, Grammys on the Hill will expand beyond the traditional two-day event to reflect Music's Biggest Week in Washington. On May 3, the Grammys on the Hill Future Forum will be held in partnership with the Human Artistry Campaign, and will explore the impact of artificial intelligence on the music community.

Since its inception, Grammys on the Hill has hosted award-winning artists and applauded congressional leaders alike, including 13-time Grammy winner Pharrell Williams, then-Vice President Joe Biden, two-time Grammy winner Garth Brooks, former United States Secretary of State and Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-NY), four-time Grammy winner Missy Elliott, former Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-UT), 28-time Grammy winner Quincy Jones, seven-time Grammy winner John Mayer, former Speakers of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and Kevin McCarthy (R-CA), 16-time Grammy Winner Alicia Keys, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), and more. The annual advocacy event has also led to several major legislative wins for the music industry, most notably the Music Modernization Act.

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This is not your typical, totally boring textbook.

In the pages of How To Earn A Living As A Freelance Writer (the first to be lied to and the last to be paid) you'll find sex, celebrities, violence, threats, unethical editors, scummy managers and lawyers, treacherous press agents, sex discrimination; as well as a how-to for earning money by writing down words.

ART AND ABOUT

FOLK AMERICANA ROOTS HALL OF FAME (FARHOF) celebrates the lifeblood of America’s musical and cultural heritage. In 2019, the Boch Center expanded and launched the Boston's newest cultural and educational initiative.

Led by legendary musicians and music executives including Keb Mo’, Joan Baez and Noel Paul Stookey and curated by Deana McCloud and Bob Santelli of the Museum Collective, the Folk Americana Roots Hall of Fame (FARHOF) is dedicated to honoring history, while also building the foundation of the next generation of Folk, Americana, and Roots musicians. Housed in the Wang Theatre, the Folk Americana Roots Hall of Fame (FARHOF) celebrates Folk, Americana and Roots music through displays, memorabilia, artifacts, events, lectures, exhibits and concerts.

"Music connects all of us and keeps us a civilized society," said Josiah Spaulding, President and CEO of the Boch Center. "These genres of music, in particular, have historically provided an outlet for individuals of all races, classes and locations to express their highest joys and their deepest sorrows, and we are thrilled to provide a new cultural destination that will educate people of all ages about the important influence of these genres on all music today."

The Folk Americana Roots Hall of Fame will explore the founding of America’s most influential Jazz label with The All Seeing Eye: Blue Note Records Through the Lens of Francis Wolff. Curated by the Museum Collective with Blue Note Records, the exhibit will feature some of the 20,000 photographs from Blue Note co-founder Francis Wolff. It will open to the public on May 1, 2024, inside the Boch Center Wang Theatre.

Berlin-born photographer Francis Wolff fled Nazi Germany in 1939 bound for New York City where he reunited with his childhood friend and fellow jazz enthusiast Alfred Lion, joining him in running his newly founded label Blue Note Records. Soon, Wolff was bringing his Rolleiflex camera to recording sessions and jazz clubs where he captured intimate, relaxed portraits of musicians at work, and over the next three decades he documented jazz history as it happened. While these candid photographs gave the Blue Note brand a distinctive look, Wolff’s images are now recognized as true works of art.

MODERN LIFE: TAIWAN ARCHITECTURE 1949–1983 Compared to the shifts in Taiwan's global political landscape after the end of WWII in 1945, the Nationalist government's relocation from Nanjing to Taiwan at the close of 1949 has more fundamentally redefined the island's geopolitical role. The lifestyle and culture of Mainland China integrated with the local culture, creating a new life of diversity as well as modern significance and connotations. In the pursuit of modernity, architecture serves as a lens through which one can comprehend the transformation of Taiwan's post-war culture and lifestyle.

This exhibition explores the events and factors that influenced the development of architecture in Taiwan from 1949 to 1983. The exhibition is divided into six sub-themes 1. Influence of the U.S. Aid, 2. Return to Chinese Retro, 3. Emergence of Chinese Modern, 4. Defining Regional Modernity, 5. Outliers, 6. A New Life.

The exhibition explains that the new life culture of this period was implemented through policies within the system, including the acceptance of US aid and introduction of new modern experiences. Also, in order to maintain and promote Chinese culture, Chinese retro styles were adopted in a large scale for public buildings. The timeline of the exhibition reveals Taiwan’s gradual emergence from the shadows of political ideology towards a modern era of freedom.

On display through June 30, 1013 at Taipei Fine Arts Museum.

THE 2024 TIDAL SHIFT AWARD from the Portland Museum of Art, Maine aims to leverage the power of socially-aware artworks, platforming teenagers and young adults ages 14 to 22, who are focused on solutions for climate change.

The PMA’s Tidal Shift Award was the first youth art prize in the country to recognize young artists who address our climate crisis through their artwork, and now in its third year. Six artists, selected from more than 900 submissions.

They were honored at a special ceremony at the Portland Museum of Art.

More than 900 submissions were submitted from 17 states and territories. To diversify and improve inclusivity, The Tidal Shift Award accepted submissions from all Native and Indigenous nations from Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Vermont, and Virginia.

Additionally, Tidal Shift organizers enlisted the support and participation of teachers, schools, and administrators to spread the word and engage their communities. 2024 saw educators utilize The Tidal Shift Award as part of their curriculum, entering submissions from entire classrooms of students, and the PMA integrated in their educational programs through workshops and more.

The Tidal Shift Award is a juried competition comprised of leaders in the field of science, advocacy, academia, and the arts, who believe we need new ways to address this crisis.

The winners are:

Division I, Ages 14-18
Isabella Campos (Winter Springs, Florida) depicts coral reefs transitioning from vibrant and healthy to bleached and dying in Changing Corals, a large sculpture meticulously created solely through manipulating paper.

Ruby Hutcheson (Tallahassee, Florida) began Mother Nature with a handmade bodysuit constructed from trash and detritus that she collected from the roadside on her walks home from school. The resulting visceral photographs convey “the emotions of sadness and disgust that I think we should feel about the way we have treated our planet.”

Kavya Bhat (Queens, New York) was originally inspired by 2023 winner Ellen Chen (Rye, New York) and created Up Close, a diptych of two interconnected, yet opposite, climate futures. “Both long for something the other has,” Bhat states, “and yet both are suffering.”

Division II, Ages 19-22
Julie Daser (Manhattan, New York) is deeply interested transforming data from cold and clinical to emotionally resonate and moving. Flooded House is an interactive installation exploring the impact of personal accountability in creating sustainable actions. “Through my project,” Daser explains, “I underscore the lack of responsibility among high-income countries in addressing climate change.”

Sergio Cadena Gonzalez (Brooklyn, New York) is originally from Monterrey, Mexico, a city recently cited as the most polluted in the world according to the Air Quality Index. Afuera is an original composition that “reflects my journey across diverse landscapes, addressing the pressing issue of climate change and its impact on local and global communities.”

Grace Sanford (Freeport, Maine) explores the intrinsic connection between humans and local water in The Life Of Water. “Many communities are finding themselves suddenly without safe water which they once took for granted, and many lives have been lost due to lack of access to this fundamental need,” states Sanford. “Life as we understand it cannot be separated from water. All life is aquatic, and our form is defined by our water.”
About The Jury: The Tidal Shift Award is a juried competition comprised of leaders in the field of science, advocacy, academia, and the arts, who believe we need new ways to address a crisis that is otherwise too easily ignored.

Samaa Abdurraqib, PhD (she/her/hers) is the Executive Director at the Maine Humanities Council, and is a leader for Outdoor Afro, a national organization committed to (re)connecting Black people to the outdoors and connecting Black people to each other through the outdoors.

Sophie Davis (she/her/hers), is a founding member and Artistic Director of Halcyon, a Maine-based musician’s collective dedicated to using music and the arts to raise awareness of climate change. Darren Ranco is the Chair of Native American Programs, University of Maine, and as a member of the Penobscot Tribal Rights and Resources Protection Board since 2012, has been developing research collaborations with the Wabanaki Tribal Nations in Maine and ensuring the protection of Wabanaki Cultural heritage.

Dr. Dave Reidmiller is the inaugural Director of the Climate Center at the Gulf of Maine Research Institute (GMRI) where he works to raise awareness of how climate change affects people throughout the Gulf of Maine region—and what they can do about it.

Chandra Robinson is a principal at LEVER Architecture based in Portland, Oregon. Robinson has 12 years of experience creating beautiful spaces that are accessible for all. She serves on the Portland Design Commission, and prior to joining LEVER, led the construction of the largest mass timber building in the US.

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SWEET CHARITY

THE KING'S TRUST USA is currently conducting a silent auction with funds raised supporting the delivery of The King’s Trust’s enterprise, employability and education programs around the world.

Items up for bid include:
Tickets to Broadway Sensation The Wiz & Dinner for 2 at Iconic Michael’s Restuarant in New York City.
Luxury Transatlantic Voyage on Cunard’s Queen Mary 2.
Premium Rugby Weekend with 2-Night Stay at The Londoner.
Limited Edition "One Direction" Print by Romero Britto.

New items are being added on a daily basis.

The silent auction will remain open through 10:20pm ET on Thursday, May 2nd.

If you are interested in placing an absentee bid on any of the live auction lots, please contact Chrissy Besheer at chrissy.besheer@kingstrust.us.

SPREADING THE WORD

WHAT'S IN A NAME?

Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber. Photo: Kennedy Center Honors

If you live in England - a lot. Those tongue twisting, rather antediluvian titles are important. This past week King Charles awarded a few, and the entertainment industry is well represented. For instance, Anthony Lloyd Webber - the guy who gave us Jesus Christ Superstar; The Phantom of the Opera: Evita; Sunsert Boulevard; Cats among others.

King Charles kept the tradition of appointing new members to the Order of the Garter on April 23, the feast day of England's patron saint, St. George.

Membership of the order is limited to the sovereign, the Prince of Wales, and no more than 24 living members, or Companions.

The monarch named Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber, Air Chief Marshal Lord Peach and the Right Honourable Lord Kakkar to the oldest and most senior Order of Chivalry in the U.K., the monarch also honored the Duchess of Gloucester as a Royal Lady Companion of the Most Noble Order of the Garter. This is a big deal.

Birgitte, The Duchess of Gloucester has become the first non-blood royal who wasn't married to the monarch or the heir to be appointed to the position.

The 77-year-old wife of the late Queen Elizabeth’s cousin Prince Richard, the Duke of Gloucester is a full-time working member of the royal family. The busy lady supports over 60 organizations across the arts, the military, sports, health, welfare and education.

Garter Day at Windsor Castle will see Andrew Lloyd Webber and the rest of the gang marching about in velvet robes and hats which features white ostrich and black heron feathers.

People line the streets to ogle.

According to the royal family's website, King Edward III was so inspired by tales of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table during his reign in the 1300s that he set up the Order of the Garter as his own group of honorable noblemen. At the annual service, the monarch formally invests any new Companions with the Order's insignia in the Throne Room of Windsor Castle. The members and officers then attend a lunch hosted by the sovereign then all process on foot to a service in St. George's Chapel where new Companions are installed.

King Charles also bestowed other titles including Prince William becoming the Great Master of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath while the Queen became the Grand Master and First or Principal Dame Grand Cross of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire — the Princess of Wales was named the first-ever Royal Companion of the Order of the Companions of Honour. The order was founded in 1917 by King George V to recognize achievements in the arts, sciences, medicine and public service. Members are limited to 65 at a time (plus honorary members from outside the Commonwealth) and currently include Elton John, David Attenborough, Judi Dench, Maggie Smith and Anna Wintour.

WHOOPI GOLDBERG: BITS AND PIECES Join bestselling author Whoopi Goldberg — one of an elite group of artists who have won the EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Awards) and the first Black entertainer to achieve this status — for a candid conversation about her life and her new memoir, Bits and Pieces. Whoopi Goldberg’s signature performances and comic voice have influenced pop-culture for decades — starring roles in films like The Color Purple; Ghosts of Mississippi; Sister Act, and Ghost, as co-host of The View. Her latest book, "Bits and Pieces ", offers for a rare look behind the curtain into the deeply personal stories that made her who she is — from growing up in the projects of New York City to the experiences with her mother and brother that shaped her early life to her iconic rise to stardom.

Just in time for Mother’s Day, hear her discuss this heartfelt tribute from a daughter to her mother — how her family helped shape her life, stories from her brilliant career, and much more. In person and on line, Monday, May 6, 2024 at 92Y in New York City.

THE STORY OF MY NUMBER: AN EVENING WITH NEW YORK YANKEES LEGENDS takes place Monday, May 6, 2024 at The Paley Museum, in New York City.

The world premiere of the YES App original series, The Story of My Number, followed by a conversation with some of the most iconic names in New York Yankees history, including Tino Martinez, Nick Swisher, manager Aaron Boone, the series host Gracie Cashman, and play-by-play announcer Michael Kay, who will moderate this exclusive PaleyLive event.

The Story of My Number explores the captivating world of sports and the pivotal numbers that defined the careers of many New York Yankees legends. Going beyond statistics and providing personal narratives that deepen the understanding of the challenges, triumphs, and measuring sticks of greatness, the series brings these numeric milestones to life with exclusive interviews, commentary, and vivid visuals.

A unique opportunity to share cherished Yankees memories and celebrate the ongoing legacy of the New York Yankees.

In Person: Aaron Boone, New York Yankees Manager -- Nick Swisher, New York Yankees Legend -- Tino Martinez, New York Yankees Legend -- Gracie Cashman, Series Host -- Moderator: Michael Kay, YES Network New York Yankees Play-by-Play Announcer.

THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BROADCASTERS (NAB) attracted content professionals?from all corners of the broadcast, media and entertainment industry. More than half of the attendees at the Show attended the event for the first time. The Show drew in attendees from around the globe, with 27% from outside the US. The event also featured over 200 first-time exhibitors.

NAB Show New York is set for October 9 to 10, 2014 and NAB Show 2025 will return to Las Vegas, April 5 to 9.

EATING RAOUL: THE MUSICAL the original cast recording of the irreverent Off-Broadway show, is now available on all major streaming platforms (via StarVista Music) after more than two decades of being out of print. First released in 1992 during the show's limited but memorable run at the Union Square Theatre in New York City, the musical adaptation of the dark comedy cult classic pairs the film’s saucy humor and wit with unforgettable melodies.

Onstage, Eating Raoul: The Musical brought to life the hilariously twisted tale of Paul and Mary Bland, a couple who embark on a murderous spree to fund their dream restaurant. With a score by Jed Feuer, son of legendary Broadway producer Cy Feuer, and a book by the original film’s creator Paul Bartel, the musical is a playful exploration of love, ambition, and unconventional cuisine. Much like the film and the theatrical production, the original cast recording embraces edgy experimentation, stretches artistic boundaries and fearlessly steps into new frontiers. Produced by seven-time Grammy Award nominee Robert Sher, the recording was one of the first to use Dolby technology, offering listeners an immersive theatrical experience and adding another layer of dimension to the avant-garde project.

Eating Raoul: The Musical was directed by Toni Kotite and features music by Jed Feuer, lyrics by Boyd Graham, and book by Paul Bartel and Richard Blackburn as well as the original cast, including Courtenay Collins, Eddie Korbich, Jonathan Brody, David Masenheimer, M.W. Reid, Cindy Benson, Adrian Zmed, Lovette George and Susan Wood.

The recording production team includes Dwight Frye (Executive Producer), Robert Sher (Producer), Jed Feuer (Composer, Liner Notes, Vocal Arrangement ), Boyd Graham (Lyrics), Paul Bartel (Book and Liner Notes), Albert Ahronheim (Conductor, Keyboards, Musical Direction, Vocal Arrangement), Joseph Gianono (Orchestration), Paul Goodman (Engineer, Engineering Supervisor), Richard Price (Editing, Engineer), Geoff Daking (Associate Engineer), Vincent Caro (Assistant Engineer), Ted Trewhella (Assistant Engineer), Steven D. Bowen (Recording Supervision), Eva Kulm (Music Preparation Supervisor), John Monaco (Music Coordinator), Peter Fitzgerald (Sound Design), Richard Grayson (Company Manager), Sid Cherry (Keyboards), Kevin McCann (Guitar), Kerry Meads (Percussion), Dale Thompson (Electric and Acoustic Bass), Joan Cullman (Presentation), Stewart F. Lane (Presentation), Richard Norton (Presentation), Max Weitzenhoffer (Presentation) and Robert S. Warren (Consultant).

With its quirky characters, catchy tunes, and darkly comedic plot, "Eating Raoul" has remained a cult favorite since its debut. Now, with the original cast recording available for streaming, fans can immerse themselves in the zany world of Paul and Mary Bland anytime, anywhere.

HER FATHER'S JACKET

Queen Camilla looking over her father's military jacket. Photo: The Royal Family

It's not often that you see your deceased father's military jacket on display. Yet, that's what happened when Queen Camilla visited The Royal Lancers - her first time as Colonel-in-Chief taking over the role from her late mother-in-law. This outing quickly turned into a personal reminder as The Queen’s late father, Major Bruce Shand, served with the 12th Lancers during World War II. He won a Military Cross during the withdrawal to Dunkirk in 1940 and later again in 1942 during the Second Battle of El Alamein in North Africa.

Major Shand was captured on 6th November 1942, during a battle in which the crew of his armored car were both killed and Shand himself severely wounded. He was held in Spangenberg Castle until he escaped in early 1945. Major Shand left the army after the War. .

In an address to her Regiment, Her Majesty said: "My father described the Regiment as a highly efficient entity, highly skilled, and full of personalities, I have no doubt that your upcoming deployments will be characteristically successful and will only add to our Regiment’s rich history:

Commissioned in 1937, The Armoured Cavalry Regiment is based in Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire.

The Regiment conducted a march past, accompanied by several past and present armored vehicles, which included the HUMBER and DINGO from World War II, once commanded by The Queen's late father, as well as the contemporary WARRIOR and BULLDOG vehicles. Following the parade, The Queen met families and members of the Old Comrades Association (OCA) at a reception.

Her Majesty also presented five Buchan Medals to serving and retired Lancers. The medal is awarded to any serving or retired member of The Royal Lancers or its antecedents, who has contributed in some conspicuous manner to the efficiency or military honor of the Regiment over a protracted period.

The Queen was also shown a tunic belonging to her late father, Major Bruce Shand MC & Bar, which is to be put on public display at the Regimental Museum in Derby, following its purchase at auction by the Regiment.

IN THE COURTS

A lawsuit has been filed by Kyle Mitrione, 35, a professional aquatic performer employed by Cirque du Soleil who was paralyzed by a moving platform on June 28, 2023 during an "O" show at the Bellagio Hotel on the Las Vegas Strip. Mitrione was joined in the lawsuit by his wife, Karolina Melska, who is an aerialist for Cirque du Soleil.

According to the lawsuit, at the time of the incident., Mitrione was part of the act called 'The Island' which involved a floating stage. The suit alleged that Mitrione was put in 'harms way' during the 'O' performance. He was left paralyzed from his neck down, among other 'permanent' injuries .

The former Cirque du Soleil performer was performing a backwards diving stunt. Mtrione asserts that the new stunt was "rushed," ignoring safety precautions, putting him in him in harm's way.
During the performance Mitrione dove backward and headfirst from a barge on stage while the lifts were moving, which caused the water to be less than four feet deep when he hit the aquatic stage, the lawsuit said. Mitrione struck his head on the lift, fracturing his spine. The performance was immediately stopped and he was rushed to the hospital where emergency surgery was performed, the lawsuit said. The surgery itself went well, but Mitrione's lawyers said that he was left with "permanent, debilitating, catastrophic and life-altering injuries."

His lawyers said that he suffered spinal and neck fractures that left him quadriplegic, hyponatremia, chronic deep vein thrombosis, sleep apnea, insomnia, depression, anxiety, chronic physical pain and more, according to the lawsuit. The suit claimed that Mitrione was not the only diver that was injured or nearly injured during the performance and that Cirque du Soleil officials were made aware of their concerns. 'The defendants knowingly rushed the production and installation of the 'Island' act, in a deliberate cost reduction effort in order to minimize costs and save money, and while placing performers like Plaintiff, Kyle Mitrione, in harm's way,' the lawsuit asserts.

According to the suit, just six days before Mitrione's incident, one of his fellow divers suffered a 'near miss', grazing their face on the platform, according to legal papers.

While the 'Island' act does require performers to dive into the water while lifts are moving, choreographers would 'coordinate and sequence the movement of the floating stage with the underwater technicians and divers, in order to prevent a diver from inadvertently striking the lifts,' the lawsuit explained.

Stage technicians are also trained to use verbal communication, lighting and sound cues to safely move equipment while performers are on stage.

In the lawsuit Mitrione charges that he relied "solely upon musical cues."

"There were no other audio and/or technical cues to advise the diving performers if it was safe to perform their respective dives," the lawsuit asserts.

"Thus, if the stage and underwater technicians fail to properly maneuver the ‘Island’ stage, diving performers, such as [Mitrione], are not informed of the possibility for catastrophic failure and inadvertently diving into the lifts."

The lawsuit states that other factors contributed to Mitrione's life altering injury, including not enough 'show runs' or practice before the live show, unsynchronized musical cues, and said that performers never practiced diving into the water with the lifts moving near them.

At the time of the incident, Cirque du Soleil said: "The incident at 'O' was an unfortunate accident that resulted in the injury of a Cirque du Soleil family member and mandated analysis and review of our work environment and culture. As well as protocols and practices of health and safety."

The show, celebrated its 25th anniversary last year. Eighty-five performers have dived into the 1.5million gallon-capacity pool from 60ft in the air. "Without question, the health, safety and well-being of our artists, crew and administrative team is paramount to our culture and remains the top priority," emphasized Cirque.

Mitrione, originally from Haddonfield, New Jersey, now lives in Los Angeles, and has competed in Red Bull Cliff Diving events and is a member of the USA Cliff Diving team.

HARVEY WEINSTEIN CONVICTION OVERTURNED sent shock-waves throughout the entertainment community. On April 25, 2024 the New York Appeals Court overturned the 2020 rape conviction based upon the trial judge James Burke handed down improper rulings, admitting 'irrelevant,' 'untested' testimony.

"There are some people who are very unpopular in our society, but we still have to apply the law fairly to them," Weinstein’s attorney Arthur Aidala told reporters during a press conference after the decision. "And in this courthouse behind us at that trial, the law was not applied fairly to Harvey Weinstein."

In the 4-3 decision, the New York court ordered a new trial for Weinstein.

The three dissenting judges called the overturn of Weinstein's conviction a "whitewashing of the facts" to fit a "he-said/she-said narrative."

Weinstein will remain in prison serving a 16-year prison sentence stemming from a 2022 California conviction for rape.



VOTE ONCE, VOTE OFTEN used to be the snide way of implying that Chicago elections weren't on the up and up. When the US Senate announced Sen. Susan Collins' "voting often" voting record, the reaction was applause and congratulations.

Last week the Maine Senator cast her historic 9,000th consecutive roll call vote, extending her unbroken voting streak, which began in 1997. Senator Collins is the first Senator in history to have cast 9,000 votes without ever having missed a vote during her entire time in the Senate.

Prior to the historic vote, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), and Senate Republican Whip John Thune (R-SD), congratulated Senator Collins on the Senate Floor to applause of her colleagues.

However, there was no cake. There should be cake. Her 10,000th consecutive vote will deserve cake.

NOMINATIONS FOR THE THE OUTER CRITICS CIRCLE Awards were announced on Tuesday, April 23. The stars of the hit Broadway revival of Merrily We Roll Along, Jonathan Groff, Lindsay Mendez and Daniel Radcliffe, read off the nominees live from the Museum of Broadway.

Honoring the 2023-2024 Broadway and Off-Broadway season, the winners will be announced on Monday, May 13, followed by an awards ceremony held on Thursday, May 23, 2024. The OCC continues with its newly reconstructed categories for a second season, which have removed gender specifications from the acting honors. First implemented last year for the 2022-23 Awards, the acting categories are now expanded to separately honor Broadway and Off-Broadway performers. To view the complete slate of nominees click here

OTHER PEOPLE'S MONEY

UAE THEME PARKS OUTPACE MAJOR DESTINATIONS according to the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), the UAE was recognized as the fastest-growing amusement park market within the MENA region in last year. Consumer spending at theme parks and related destinations in the Mena region is projected to grow at an annual rate of 10.9 percent. By the end of this year, it is projested to reach $474 million, according to IAAPA.

Such growth is faster than that of the world's two largest theme park markets – North America, which is set to grow 2.3 percent annually to $29.5 billion by 2024, and Asia Pacific, predicted to grow by 5 percent to $26.3 billion.

This growth is attributed to the government's efforts in creating a favorable environment for the industry to develop and mature. However, attracting the same level of attendance as Orlando, which sees 70 million visitors annually, remains far more challenging, according to Theme Park Insider.

"UAE has to be smarter because it doesn't have the same resident market that Orlando has, within a six hour drive time. You are relying on the international market, which then means you're relying on partnerships with the airlines to bring those people you are targeting" explained Tim Harrison-Jones, General Manager of LEGOLAND Dubai Resort as first reported in Arabian Business.

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GALILEO book by Danny Strong. Music and lyrics by Michael Weiner and Zoe Sarnak.

Directed by Michael Mayer.

Choreographed by David Neumann.

Four-time Tony Award nominee Raúl Esparza stars in a dazzling world-premiere musical. When maverick scientist Galileo Galilei makes celestial observations that challenge humanity’s understanding of its place in the universe, he’s summoned to Rome to defend his discoveries before the most powerful religious institution in the world, which is facing a rebellion of its own. With an original rock score and lyrics by Michael Weiner, Galileo is an explosive collision of science and faith, truth and power. "Galileo will likely join the constellation of world premieres that traveled from Berkeley Rep to Broadway — be the first to see it here!"

Featuring (in alphabetical order): Bradley Dean as Cardinal Grasso; U/S Galileo Galilei - - Gabrielle Elisabeth as | Ensemble; U/S Virginia / Maria Celeste Galilei, Ensemble (Young Nun) - - Raúl Esparza as | Galileo Galilei - - Adam Halpin as | Ensemble (Bruno & Commander Nikolaus Caspari); U/S Cardinal Maffeo Barberini - - Michal Kolaczkowski as | Swing; Dance Captain; U/S Ensemble (Bruno & Commander Nikolaus Caspari) - - Jeremy Kushnier | Cardinal Maffeo Barberini - - Claire Kwon as | Swing; U/S Ensemble (Young Nun) - - Nicole Kyoung-Mi Lambert | Ensemble; U/S Virginia / Maria Celeste Galilei, Ensemble (Mother Superior) - - Christian Magby | Alessandro Tarantola - - - Michael J. Mainwaring | Ensemble; U/S Ensemble (Paolo Tarantola) - - Madalynn Mathews | Virginia / Maria Celeste Galilei - - Alexander Mendoza= | Ensemble; U/S Alessandro Tarantola, Cardinal Grasso - - Javier Muñozas | Cardinal Morosini - - Brian Ray Norris | Ensemble; U/S Galileo Galilei, Ensemble (Paolo Tarantola) - - Chase Peacock | Ensemble; U/S Cardinal Maffeo Barberini - - Noah Plomgren | Swing; U/S Cardinal Morosini, Ensemble (Bruno & Commander Nikolaus Caspari) - - David Rowen | Swing; U/S Ensemble - - DeMone Seraphin | Ensemble (Paolo Tarantola); U/S Cardinal Grasso, Cardinal Morosini - - Madeleine Spacapan | Ensemble; U/S Ensemble (Mother Superior) - - Erica Sweany as | Ensemble (Mother Superior) - - Zalah Brenae Vallienas | Ensemble (Young Nun) - - Adrian Villegasas | Ensemble; U/S Alessandro Tarantola.

BAND:

Roberto Sinha | Keys / Music Director - - Jonathan Bauerfeld | Keys / Associate Music Director - - Stephen Danska | Guitar - - Daniel Fabricant | Bass - - Yuri Kye | Violin - - Dave MacNab | Guitar - - Joshua Mikus-Mahoney | Cello - - Chris Sutherland | Drums.

The creatives are: Rachel Hauck | Scenic Design - - Anita Yavich | Costume Design - - Kevin Adams | Lighting Design - - John Shivers | Sound Design - - Jason H. Thompson, Kaitlyn Pietras | Projection Design - - Tom Watson I Hair, Wig, Make-Up Design - - Jim Carnahan, CSA; Jason Thinger, CSA | Casting - - Brian Usifer | Music Supervision and Orchestrations - - Roberto Sinha | Music Director - - Ben Villegas Randle | Associate Director - - T. Oliver Reid | Associate Choreographer - - Jonathan Bauerfeld | Associate Music Director and Score Associate - - Sean Kana | Contractor - - Rick Steiger | Production Stage Manager - - Amy Marsico | Stage Manager - - Karen Evanouskas | Assistant Stage Manager .

World Premiere May 5–June 16, 2024 at the Roda Theatre of Berkeley Rep in Berkeley, CA.

STIR the San Diego Globe commisionned play by Melinda Lopez and Joel Perez. Directed by Marcela Lorca.

Stir is about family, food, and healing. Two siblings, separated by distance and circumstance, meet to share their mother’s favorite recipe. What starts as a simple project leads to surprising connection as they reminisce and reveal secrets of their own. This tender comedy invites audiences to grab a seat at the table and savor the possibility of reuniting with loved ones after a long time apart.

The cast includes Melinda Lopez as Mariana, Joel Perez as Henry, and Al Rodrigo as Papi.

Understudies include Javier Guerrero as Henry and Papi, and Sandra Ruiz as Mariana.

The creatives include: Diggle (Scenic Design), Christopher Vergara (Costume Design), Cha See (Lighting Design), Fabian Obispo (Sound Design), Caparelliotis Casting (Casting), and Chandra R.M. Anthenill (Production Stage Manager).

Stir plays in the Sheryl and Harvey White Theatre, part of the Globe’s Conrad Prebys Theatre Center, San Diego, CA from May 4 through May 26, 2024, with the official opening night on Thursday, May 9, 2024.

THE BARBER OF SEVILLE Music by Gioachino Rossini; Libretto by Cesare Sterbini.

Italian conductor Valentina Peleggi will make her Seattle Opera debut at the podium.

Stage direction by Lindy Hume.

The wheeling and dealing Figaro plays matchmaker between the savvy Rosina and the lovesick Count Almaviva, while Rosina's vulturous guardian does everything he can to keep the lovebirds apart. Full of schemes and hijinks.

Lindy Hume's "bright hilarious production" (The Stranger) is an audience favorite with magnificently colorful sets and costumes. Featuring Mezzo-soprano Megan Moore as the quick-witted heroine Rosina. Colombian tenor César Cortés who will have his U.S. debut singing the role of Count Almaviva. Lyric baritones Sean Michael Plumb and Luke Sutliff's make their company debuts performing as the wisecracking Figaro. Bass William Guanbo Su, debuts as Rosina's conniving caretaker, Don Basilio.

With Taylor Raven as Rosina, Duke Kim as Count Almaviva, Kevin Burdette and Ashraf Sewailam as Doctor Bartolo, Deanne Meek as Berta, Michael J. Hawk as Fiorello, and Zachary Martin as an Officer (Sergeant) and Marc Kenison as Waxie Moon/Ambrogio.

Colorful costumes, vibrant sets, and show-stopping tunes.

The creatives are: Daniel Pelzig associate director nd choreographer. Trady Grant Lord production designer. Matthew Marshall lighting designer. Ashlee Naegle wigs, hair and makeup designer. Michaella Calzaretta chorus master.

In Italian with English subtitles.

Presented by Seattle Opera May 4–19 at McCaw Hall in Seattle, Washington.

GHOST WALTZ by Oliver Mayer.

Directed by Alberto Barboza.

Music Direction by Alberto López.

Actor, multi-instrumentalist and composer Quetzal Guerrero, best known as QVLN and a classically trained violinist, stars as Rosas. Pianist extraordinaire and Steinway artist Ric’key Pageot, who has toured with Madonna, Christina Aguilera, Cher and Cirque du Soleil, takes on the role of Scott Joplin. And Latin Grammy nominee rising star soprano Nathalie Peña-Comas plays Ángela Peralta, the "Mexican Nightingale," who was the first Mexican to sing at the La Scala opera house in Milan.

Fictional characters include Rosas’ father, Don Jesus, portrayed by actor and composer Eduardo Robledo, known for his work with El Teatro Campesino and the San Francisco Mime Troupe; Professor Zeiss, a music teacher at the Mexican conservatory, played by Cástulo Guerra (Terminator 2, The Mexican, and Star Trek: The Next Generation); Joplin’s young companion, Bethena (Adzua Ayana Asha Amoa, recently seen as LaRonda in ART/NY staged reading of Fish by Kia Corthron); and Creole clairvoyant Marie Leveau (Monte Escalante, Robey Theatre Company’s The Talented Tenth). Commissioned by Latino Theater Company and developed in the company’s Circle of Imaginistas playwriting group, Ghost Waltz is a boldly original recovery of Juventino Rosas, one of Mexico’s most significant classical composers — an Indigenous musician whose life story has gone untold and whose works have been attributed to Europeans. Following Rosas from his father’s early death to his friendship with ragtime genius Scott Joplin, Mayer mixes music, magic, drama, passion, spirituality and dance in a celebration that explores the lives of people of color during the emerging Americas of the late 19th century, and their ghost-like impact on our own lives today..

Cameron Jaye Mock and Emily Anne McDonald are the production designers, including set, lights, costumes and projections. The assistant director is Giovanni Ortega. Production stage manager Yaesol Jeong is assisted by Mikayla Bettner.

May 4 through June 2 at The Los Angeles Theatre Center in downtown Los Angeles.

LONDON TIDE based on Charles Dickens’ Our Mutual Friend adapted by Ben Power. Songs by PJ Harvey and Ben Power.

Directed by Ian Rickson.

It begins like this. With the dusk and the storm and the Thames . . .

A storm rages and, in the darkest part of the night, a body is pulled from the swirling Thames.

Across the city, two young women confront an uncertain future. In Limehouse, Lizzie Hexam struggles to break free of the river and its dark secrets. On the other side of town, Bella Wilfer mourns a lost marriage. The appearance of the mysterious John Rokesmith has the potential to change their lives for ever. Will they sink or swim?

This romantic and propulsive thriller is a hymn to the city and the river that runs through it. the genius of Dickens meets the fierce musical imagination of acclaimed singer-songwriter, PJ Harvey.

Cast includes: Beth Alsbury - Joe Armstrong - Hayley Chilvers - Crystal Condie - Laura Cubitt - Jonathan Dryden Taylor - Brandon Grace - Miya James - Scott Karim - Stephen Kennedy - Joshua Lacey - Penny Layden Bella Maclean - Eric Mok - Tom Mothersdale - Liam Prince-Donnelly - Ellie-May Sheridan - Georgia Silver - Ami Tredrea - John Vernon - Jamael Westman - Peter Wight - Jake Wood - Rufus Wright.

Production team: Adaptation and lyrics Ben Power. Set and Costume Designer Bunny Christie. Lighting Designer Jack Knowles. Vocal Arrangements PJ Harvey and Ian Ross. Co-Sound Designer Tingying Dong and Christopher Shutt. Movement Director Anna Morrissey. Video Designer Hayley Egan. Fight Director Terry King. Casting Director Bryony Jarvis-Taylor. Voice and Dialect Coach Simon Money. Associate Set Designer Verity Sadler - Deputy Music Director Jon Gingell - Staff Director Yasmin Hafesji.

Musicians: Piano and Guitars Ian Ross - Drum Kit Alex Lupo - Keyboards Sarah Anderson.

Performances until June 22, 2024 at the Lyttelton Theatre National Theatre, South Bank, London.

MACHINAL by Sophie Treadwell.

Directed by Richard Jones.

Starring Rosie Sheehy.

Joinging Sheehy in the production are: Daniel Abelson, Sam Alexander, Christian Alifoe, Steven Beard, Daniel Bowerbank, Imogen Daines, Buffy Davis, Steven Dykes, Tim Frances, Carla Harrison-Hodge, Emilio Iannucci, Jane MacFarlane, Caroline Moroney, Pierro Niel-Mee, and Wendy Nottingham.

"How can that be? A great sin – a mortal sin – for which I must die and go to hell – but it made me free! One moment I was free!"

From the outside, Helen Jones and her husband had a 'happy marriage'. Until she murdered him.

Based on the true crime story of Ruth Snyder in 1928 that shook a nation, Sophie Treadwell’s seminal Machinal is a pulse-pounding journey of someone pushed to breaking point by the relentless machinery of life, expectation and convention.

The creatives are: Hyemi Shins set - Sarah Fahie movement - Nicky Gillibrand costume - Adam Silverman lighting - Benjamin Grant sound - Ginny Schiller CDG - Casting Charlie Hughes-D’Aeth - Voice Rick Lipton dialect - Lucy Hind intimacy - Stanley Wade assistant director - Joe Price associate lighting - Magdalena Seyfried costume supervisor.

At The Old Vic in London. This limited run must end June 1, 2024.

STALIN'S MASTER CLASS written by David Pownall.

Directed by Ron Sossi.

Music Direction by Nisha Sue Arunasalam.

Starring John Kayton, Randy Lowell, Jan Munroe, Ilia Volok.

Politics collide with art when "Father of the People" Joseph Stalin and Soviet cultural minister Andrei Zhdanov summon composers Sergei Prokofiev and Dmitri Shostakovich to the Kremlin for a vodka-fueled "music lesson." A wildly comic, music-filled ride.

Can artistic expression be forced to conform to political ideology? In this darkly funny satire, Pownall imagines a chilling encounter — Prokofiev (Jan Munroe) and Shostakovich (Randy Lowell as) are subjected to the rant and bullying of Stalin (Ilia Volok) and Zhdanov (John Kayton), who accuse the composers of anti-democratic, "formalist" musical tendencies that are alien to the Soviet people and their artistic tastes. "Music that could make a whole population sick!" Post-war Soviet society may be the backdrop for Stalin’s Master Class, but the themes raised about the relationship between art and politics remain universally relevant.

The creative team includes music director Nisha Sue Arunasalam; scenic designer Pete Hickock; lighting designer Jackson Funke; sound designer Christopher Moscatiello; costume designer Mylette Nora; props designer Jenine MacDonald; and graphics designer Luba Lukova. The stage manager is Jennifer Palumbo. Beth Hogan produces. Stalin’s Master Class is presented by Odyssey Theatre Ensemble in association with Isabel and Harvey Kibel.

David Pownall (1938–2022) was an award-winning British novelist and playwright who had over 80 radio plays broadcast on the BBC and worldwide, and his work for stage has been produced in many countries throughout the world. During his extensive career, Pownall wrote in a number of different mediums including 13 novels. Written in 1983, Master Class was his best-known play, transferring from the Leicester Haymarket to the Old Vic and then to Wyndham’s in the West End. His book, “Writing Master Class,” is an account of the inception and development of the play, interspersed with twists of his authorial life-story.

Presented by the Odyssey Theatre Ensemble in Los Angeles with performances of Stalin’s Master Class taking place through May 26, 2024.

BEETLEJUICE based on Tim Burton's iconic film, Beetlejuice with a story by Michael McDowell and Larry Wilson. Stage production's score by Eddie Perfect, book by Scott Brown and Anthony King.

Directed by Alex Timbers.

Choreography by Connor Gallagher.

Get ready to experience the afterlife like never before as Beetlejuice invites you to step into a world where the supernatural meets the hilarious. Beetlejuice brings chaos and madness to the stage where you'll witness larger-than-life sandworms, ghostly apparitions and jaw-dropping transformations. Whether you're a die-hard fan of the original film, or a newcomer to the Beetlejuice universe, prepare for a theatrical journey that's bound to leave you screaming... with laughter!

It was only a matter of time until the creepy camp cult hit film was turned into theatrical musical magic. Universally praised for its anarchic off-the-wall humor, tuneful music, wicked lyrics and a carnivalesque set design, Beetlejuice provides a feast for the eyes, ears and inner angsty gothic teenager.

Lydia Deetz is not your average All American teenage girl. Marching firmly to the beat of her own drum, the strange and unusual heroine enjoys writing poetry, photography and anything to do with the paranormal and supernatural. Misunderstood by her father and stepmother, her isolated life is turned upside down when she moves into a new home haunted by a recently deceased couple called Barbara and Adam Maitland, and the rambunctious demon Beetlejuice. With the help of the Maitlands, Lydia sets out to foil the outrageous Beetlejuice's nefarious plans to come back to life and comes of age in the process.

The cast: Justin Collette as Beetlejuice - Isabella Esler as Lydia - Megan McGinnis as Barbara - Will Burton as Adam - Jesse Sharp as Charles - Sarah Litzsinger as Delia - Jackera Davis as Girl Scout, u/s Lydia - Abe Goldfarb as Otho, u/s Adam, Charles, Maxie Dean - Hillary Porter as Miss Argentina - Kris Roberts as Maxine Dean, Juno, u/s Delia - Brian Vaughn as Maxie Dean, u/s Charles - Michael Biren Ensemble, u/s Beetlejuice, Maxie Dean, Otho - Ryan Breslin Swing, Dance Captain, u/s Adam, Maxie Dean, Otho - Haley Fish ensemble, u/s Barbara, u/s Delia, u/s Miss Argentina - Haley Hannah swing, Assistant Dance Captain, u/s Barbara, u/s Maxine Dean, u/s Juno, u/s Girl Scout - Matthew Michael Janisse as Swing, u/s Beetlejuice, Adam, Charles, Otho, Maxie Dean Lee N. Price as ensemble, u/s Beetlejuice, Otho - Larkin Reilly as ensemble, u/s Lydia, u/s Girl Scout, u/s Miss Argentina - Lexie Dorsett Sharp as swing, u/s Barbara, Delia, Maxie Dean, Juno, Miss Argentina. Ensemble members: Kenway Hon Wai K. Kua, Mateo Melendez, Drew Minard and Corben Williams.

The creatives are: Kris Kukul Musical Supervision, Orchestrations, & Incidental Music - David Korins Scenic Design - William Ivey Long Costume Design - Kenneth Posner Lighting Design - Peter Hylenski Sound Design - Peter Nigrini Projection Design - Michael Curry Puppet Design - Jeremy Chernick Special Effects Design - Michael Weber Illusions - Charles G. Lapointe Hair & Wig Design - Joe Dulude II Make-Up Design - Lorenzo Pisoni Physical Movement Coordinator - The Telsey Office Rachel Hoffman, CSA Casting - Eddie Perfect and Kris Kukul Additional Arrangements - Matt Stine Music Producer - Kristy Norter Music Coordination - David Dabbon Dance Arrangements - Andy Grobengieser Music Director/Conductor - Alan D. Knight Production Stage Manager - Joel T. Herbst Company Manager - Catie Davis Associate Director - Michael Fatica Associate Choreographer - Allied Global Marketing Tour Marketing & Press - SPOTCO Digital & Social Media.

Experience the zany and hilarious world of Beetlejuice at Albuquerque, New Mexico Theater, Popejoy Hall from May 9-12, 2024.

The tour then continues. The May schedule: May 14 - May 19 (2024), Louisville, KY, Kentucky Center; May 28 - Jun 2 (2024), Hartford, CT, Bushnell.

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FINAL OVATION

HELEN BRICKER died March 19, 2024 in Los Angeles. She was 91.

After receiving a BS in Music from the University of Illinois and an MS in Music Education from DePaul University, Helen taught music in Chicago Public Schools before moving to Los Angeles where she was a music specialist, classroom teacher, mentor to teachers in training, and chorus teacher. Helen began her long career as a studio teacher in the 1970s which included television shows (Picket Fences, Boston Public, Becker, Girlfriends), films (Never Ending Story II, My Stepmother is an Alien, Rookie of the Year, Criminal Instinct), and 23 episodes of Niko and the Sword of Light (2015) TV series. She also was a studio teacher for voice over shows and videos (many at Cartoon Network), and theater including Les Misérables, Get Happy, and for over two years, the studio teacher on the stage production of Evita.

Helen is survived by her loving sister Carole Bricker Kelley (Al), nieces Laura (Adrian) and Joanna (Omar), nephew Stephen (LaDonna) and six grandnephews (Luke, Jack, Julian, Allan, Christian, Luca) and grandniece (Camille).

GAYLE NACHLIS who spent three decades as a William Morris agent before serving as executive director and then senior director of education at Women in Film, died Sunday, April 21, 2024 of throat cancer at her home in Long Beach, Ca. She was 72.

She attended UC Berkeley and graduated from UCLA with a degree in theatre arts. In 1975, she joined the William Morris Agency as an assistant to the agent who handled Equity contracts in the theater department. She eventually handled all of the agency’s regional theaters west of the Mississippi and all its summer stock in the U.S. and assisted the New York office with Broadway and off-Broadway productions.

In 2005, after three decades at WMA, Gayle became the Executive Director of Women In Film, the non-profit organization started in 1974 to advocate for and advance the careers of women in the screen industries, retiring in 2019. In late 2005, Nachlis left WMA and was named executive director of Women in Film. In the new position, she oversaw operating committees and established ties with local businesses, donors and related not-for-profit partners and universities. Nachlis segued to senior director of education in 2015 and retooled WIF’s mentoring and internship programs before retiring in 2019.

Survivors include her children, Alex and Sara, and their respective spouses, Meredith and Brad; her grandchildren, Rosalind and Cai; her mother, Ruth; her sisters, Meryl and Barbara; and her brothers-in-law, Stephen and Roy.

Her husband of 35 years, Marvin Nachlis, a lawyer and high school math teacher, died in 2013 at age 63 from ALS.

HELEN MARGARET "MEG" BENNETT known throughout her professional career on stage and screen as "Meg," Bennett lost her battle with cancer on April 11, 2024. She was 74.

She majored in drama at Northwestern University, where she was homecoming queen and a Miss America contestant, performed in summer stock, and upon graduating moved to New York to pursue an acting career. She got a modelling job as the "Cadillac Eldorado Convertible Girl" but her first real break was an acting and singing role in the off-Broadway musical Godspell. From there she went to Grease on Broadway, became a champion of the TV quiz show Three on a Match, and in 1974 began her long and successful soap opera career as the ingénue Liza on Search for Tomorrow. After moving back to Los Angeles, she became Julia Newman in The Young and the Restless in 1980, playing a major role on and off for six years and with cameo appearances thereafter, the last in 2020.

She segued into script-writing for The Young and the Restless and never looked back, writing for The Bold and the Beautiful; General Hospital; Santa Barbara and Sunset Beach. She received five Daytime Emmy nominations for writing, with her General Hospital team winning in 1995, and five nominations for Writers Guild of America awards, with wins for Sunset Beach and General Hospital. She never abandoned acting, with various stage appearances, including You've Got Hate Mail in New York in 2011, and multiple appearances on television, perhaps most notably as the General Hospital villainess Allegra Montenegro.

Meg met her husband, Robert Guza, Jr., while writing for General Hospital; they would have celebrated their twentieth wedding anniversary this year. She is survived by her husband, two step-daughters and four adored grandchildren, along with a brother and sister and a bevy of nieces and nephews.

ERNIE FIELDS musician and musical contractor died unexpectedly on March 8, 2024. He was 89.

Fields was a reliable recording session regular, playing saxophone on many gold and platinum albums. As a top contractor, he hired musicians that support many television broadcasts, most notably American Idol and The Voice. He was also a part of many live show performances for Aretha Franklin, guest conductor for the Ray Charles Orchestra, FreedomFest (the London televised concert honoring Nelson Mandela's 70th birthday, the European tour of popular French singer Johnny Hallyday, and the foreign tours with the modern funk band of trombonist, Fred Wesley.

After graduating from Howard University in 1960, he first traveled with his father, big band leader, Ernie Fields. Wearied of life on the road, he settled in Los Angeles in the 1970s and began making his way as an arranger, composer, and multi-instrumentalist. He is credited with mentoring countless younger musicians.

He is survived by his daughters Pam Williams of Tulsa, OK, Michelle Fields-Wilson and Lisa Fields-Miller, both of Georgia; a sister, Carmen Fields (Lorenz Finison) their daughter, Karly Finison, all of Needham, MA; nieces Mary Fields of Denver, and Felicia Fields of Indiana; sister-in-law, Ingrid Fields of Aliso Viejo; step-children Rodney Hendricks (Cassandra) and Tyna (Hendricks) Diaz; longtime companion Galia (Armstrong) Dumas all of Los Angeles, three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Next Column: May 5, 2024
Copyright: April 28, 2024 All Rights Reserved. Reviews, Interviews, Commentary, Photographs or Graphics from any Broadway To Vegas (TM) columns may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, utilized as leads, or used in any manner without permission, compensation and/or credit.
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Laura Deni

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