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Tuesday, April 30, 2013

ACT OUT OPENING: Season of Snark With THE MOLIÈRE FESTIVAL: THE MISANTHROPE & TARTUFFE at COURT THEATRE



COURT THEATRE LAUNCHES CENTER FOR CLASSIC THEATRE WITH
THE MOLIÈRE FESTIVAL:
THE MISANTHROPE & TARTUFFE
DIRECTED BY ARTISTIC CHARLES NEWELL



ChiIL Live Shows adored The School for Lies based on The Misanthrope at Chicago Shakespeare earlier this year.   Now you can immerse yourself in Moliere, thanks to Court Theatre.
 

Court Theatre Artistic Director Charles Newell and Executive Director Stephen J. Albert present The Molière Festival: The Misanthrope & Tartuffe, written by Molière with a translation by Richard Wilbur, and directed by Artistic Director Charles Newell. The Misanthrope will run May 9 – June 9, and Tartuffe will run June 20 –July 14 at Court Theatre, 5535 S. Ellis Avenue.

This is a significant moment for Court Theatre.  After a decade of aspiration, Court has finally achieved the creation of the Center for Classic Theatre.  The Center combines the elements of innovative productions, international scholarship, interdisciplinary study and interactive community outreach, in short it allows Court to access the amazing intellectual resources here at the University of Chicago to deepen the work on our stages, as well as maximize the impact of these productions on our surrounding communities,” says Artistic Director Charles Newell.

The Molière Festival launches the Center for Classic Theatre at the University of Chicago campus, dedicated to the creation and curation of large-scale interdisciplinary theatrical experiences.  With the production of The Misanthrope and Tartuffe during the International Molière Festival, Court Theatre is taking its place as a hub for intellectual activity that unites artists and scholars to foster collaboration between theatre and a myriad of other academic disciplines. The Center for Classic Theatre signals a new way for a professional theatre to be in residence at a major university: it is an approach to producing that fully accesses the resources that surround Court Theatre, enabling the Company to continue its work producing world premiere translations and adaptations of classic texts, turn its theatrical productions into interdisciplinary events with direct ties to University coursework, forge connections with international arts organizations and universities, and reach new audiences. 

The Molière Festival was created from a longstanding collaboration between Artistic Director Charles Newell and University of Chicago Professor Larry Norman, who notably collaborated on the 2010 production of Tony Kushner’s adaptation of Pierre Cornielle’s The Illusion.  Professor Norman is a leading French scholar and was planning to convene an international conference on Molière during the spring of 2013 in collaboration with The Sorbonne University and the University of Glasgow.  This event inspired the decision to produce two Molière plays at Court, thus incorporating The Molière Festival as part of the company’s 2012-13 Season. Professor Norman developed a class on Molière which is being taught concurrently with Court’s rehearsal process, allowing scholarship and the artistic process to feed and influence each other – a hallmark of the Center for Classic Theatre.  This interdisciplinary collaboration then inspired an additional class at the University of Chicago Graham School being offered to the general public, which also allows access to the artistic process surrounding the Molière Festival. Court Theatre has also partnered with the Alliance Francaise, Chicago’s center for French Culture, to engage their constituency with the unique opportunities afforded through the production of The Misanthrope and Tartuffe.      

The Molière Festival: The Misanthrope & Tartuffe is sponsored by Boeing, Rita and John Canning, David and Marilyn Fatt Vitale, the Elizabeth F. Cheney Foundation, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Marion M. Lloyd Court Theatre Fund
 
The Misanthrope
In a society where social graces reign supreme, the cynical Alceste causes a scandal when he refuses to play his part in the charade. Torn between his love for the coquettish Célimène and the pretenses he so despises, Alceste finds himself alone in a world where words are brandished like weapons and status is defined by style. Unwilling to play the hypocrite any longer, Alceste must decide his destiny. Artistic Director Charles Newell returns to his roots in the French Baroque to give this wickedly funny and deliciously droll comedy of manners new life.

The cast of The Misanthrope includes Kamal Angelo Bolden (Philinte), Patrese D. McClain (Eliante), A.C. Smith (Oronte), Travis Turner (Acaste), Elizabeth Ledo (Basque/DuBoise/Guard), Michael Pogue (Clitandre), Grace Gealey (Celimene), Allen Gilmore (Arsinoe), and Erik Hellman (Alceste).

The creative team includes John Culbert (scenic design), Jacqueline Firkins (costume design), Keith Parham (lighting design), Andre Pluess (sound design), and Drew Dir (dramaturgy). Sara Gammage is the Production Stage Manager and William Collins is the Stage Manager.

The Misanthrope will run May 9 – June 9, 2013 at Court Theatre, 5535 S. Ellis Avenue. Previews are May 9 – May 17, 2013.  The opening press performance is on Saturday, May 18, 2013 at 8:00 p.m. Curtain times are Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:30 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. with Saturday matinees at 3 p.m.; Sundays at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Ticket prices are $35 to $45 for preview performances; $45 to $65 for regular run performances. Tickets are available at the Box Office, 5535 S. Ellis Avenue, Chicago; (773) 753-4472 or online at www.CourtTheatre.org. Student and senior discounts available. Groups of 10 or more may purchase discounted tickets by calling Kate Vangeloff at 773-834-3243.

Tartuffe
A devilish comedy about the art of deception and the price of misplaced faith, Molière’s Tartuffe reveals a tale as outrageous as it is insightful. When the cunning imposter Tartuffe wields a pretense of piety to capture the imagination of aging family-man Orgon, the scoundrel succeeds in insinuating himself into the patriarch’s home, throwing Orgon’s family into utter chaos. As Orgon’s foolish infatuation with Tartuffe’s fraudulent religious fervor grows, the depth of Tartuffe’s deception turns dangerous. Artistic Director Charles Newell directs the French classic Tartuffe with a provocative contemporary approach that will illicit deep laughter of recognition.

The cast of Tartuffe includes Philip Earl Johnson (Tartuffe), Kamal Angelo Bolden (Damis), Patrese D. McClain (Elmire), A.C. Smith (Orgon), Travis Turner (Valere), Elizabeth Ledo (Darine), Michael Pogue (Cleante), Grace Gealey (Mariane), Allen Gilmore (Mme Pernelle), and Erik Hellman (Laurant).  Additional cast to be announced.

The creative team includes John Culbert (scenic design), Jacqueline Firkins (costume design), Keith Parham (lighting design), Joshua Horvath (sound design), Drew Dir (dramaturgy). Sara Gammage is the Production Stage Manager and William Collins is the Stage Manager.

Tartuffe will run June 20 – July 14, 2013 at Court Theatre, 5535 S. Ellis Avenue. Previews are June 20 – June 27, 2013.  The opening press performance is on Friday, June 28, 2013 at 8:00 p.m.  Curtain times are Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:30 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. with Saturday matinees at 3 p.m.; Sundays at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Ticket prices are $35 to $45 for preview performances; $45 to $65 for regular run performances. Tickets are available at the Box Office, 5535 S. Ellis Avenue, Chicago; (773) 753-4472 or online at www.CourtTheatre.org. Student and senior discounts available. Groups of 10 or more may purchase discounted tickets by calling Kate Vangeloff at 773-834-3243.


ABOUT THE ARTISTS
Charles Newell (Artistic Director/Director) has been Artistic Director of Court Theatre since 1994, where he has directed over 30 productions. He made his Chicago directorial debut in 1993 with The Triumph of Love, which won the Joseph Jefferson Award for Best Production. Directorial highlights at Court include James Joyce’s “The Dead,” Angels in America, An Iliad, Porgy and Bess, Three Tall Women, The Year of Magical Thinking, The Wild Duck, Caroline, Or Change, Titus Andronicus, Arcadia, Man of La Mancha, Uncle Vanya, Raisin, The Glass Menagerie, Travesties, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, Hamlet, and The Invention of Love.  Charlie has also directed at the Goodman Theatre (Rock ‘n’ Roll), the Guthrie Theater (Resident Director: The History Cycle, Cymbeline), Arena Stage, John Houseman’s The Acting Company (Staff Repertory Director), the California and Alabama Shakespeare Festivals, Juilliard, and New York University. He is the recipient of the 1992 TCG Alan Schneider Director Award. He has served on the Board of Theatre Communications Group, as well as on several panels for the National Endowment for the Arts. Opera directing credits include Marc Blitzstein’s Regina at the Lyric Opera of Chicago, and Rigoletto at Opera Theatre of St. Louis. Charlie is a multiple Joseph Jefferson Award (Chicago’s highest theatrical honor) nominee and recipient.

Kamal Angelo Bolden (Philinte – The Misanthrope; Damis - Tartuffe) was most recently seen at Court Theatre as Youngblood in August Wilson's Jitney, at A Red Orchid Theatre as Donell in The Opponent, at the Goodman Theatre as Tony in Paul Oakley Stovall's Immediate Family, and as Black Man/Actor 2 in the world premiere of We Are Proud to Present... at Victory Gardens Theater.  Since leaving Nashville for Chicago three years ago, Kamal has originated the roles of Jackie Robinson in the Chicago Children's Theatre's world premiere of Jackie and Me, and Chad Deity in Victory Gardens Theatre's world premiere of The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Deity. He has also worked with Actors Theatre of Louisville (The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Deity) and won a Black Theatre Alliance Award for Best Leading Actor for his work in Athol Fugard’s The Island at Remy Bumppo Theatre.  Kamal has appeared in many independent films and national commercials, and has made guest appearances on BOSS, Lights Out, and The Row.  He holds a B.S. in Business Administration-Entrepreneurship from Bradley University and is a proud Artistic Associate of Erasing the Distance.

Grace Gealey (Celimene – The Misanthrope; Mariane - Tartuffe) recently appeared in American Theater Company’s production of Rent, directed by David Cromer. Regional credits include: “Delilah” (Venus Flytrap), “Rosalita” (Skippy Jon Jones Mini-Tour, Theaterworks USA), “Maggie” (Cat on a Hot Tin Roof), “Anita” (West Side Story), “Vera Charles” (Mame), “Jenny Diver” (The Threepenny Opera), “Olivia” (Twelfth Night).

Allen Gilmore (Arsinoe – The Misanthrope; Mme Pernelle - Tartuffe) was last seen at Court Theater as Tumbo in Jitney and as Sizwe Banzi in Sizwe Banzi is Dead, both directed by Ron OJ Parson. He has recently performed at Yale Repertory Theatre and Berkeley Repertory Theatre in A Doctor In Spite of Himself. He just completed the run of A Servant of Two Masters at The Shakespeare Theater in Washington, D.C., and following Jitney, he will perform A Servant of Two Masters at Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis. Allen returns to Court in the spring for the Moliere comedies The Misanthrope and Tartuffe. He is a proud artistic associate of Next Theater and a proud ensemble member of Congo Square Theater Company.

Erik Hellman (Alceste – The Misanthrope; Laurant - Tartuffe) happily returns to Court after previously appearing in Comedy of Errors, The Mystery of Irma Vep (for which he received a Joseph Jefferson Award nomination for lead actor), Titus Andronicus, and Arcadia. His recent Chicago credits include Eastland (Lookingglass Theatre); Hesperia (Writers’ Theatre); Madness of  King George III, Taming of the Shrew, and Macbeth and Edward II (Chicago Shakespeare Theatre); Honest, Elephant Man, and Huck Finn (Steppenwolf Theatre); All My Sons (Timeline); The Busy World is Hushed (Next Theatre); Tartuffe (Remy Bumppo); Hatfield, and McCoy (The House Theatre of Chicago); and multiple performances as an ensemble member of Strawdog Theatre Company. Outside of Chicago, Erik has appeared at the Milwaukee Repertory Theatre, Geva Theatre, Syracuse Stage, Indianapolis Repertory Theatre, Shakespeare Santa Cruz, Houston’s Stages Repertory Theatre and Off-Broadway at The Mirror Repertory Theatre. In film and on TV, he has appeared in The Dark Knight, The Chicago Code, and Boss.



Phillip Earl Johnson (Tartuffe - Tartuffe) returns to Court Theatre having just played Gabriel Conroy in James Joyce’s “The Dead” and Tom Sergeant in Skylight. Other credits include The Mystery Cycle (Jesus) at Court Theatre and the National tour of Angels in America (Joe). Other Chicago credits include Talking Pictures (Willis) at the Goodman Theatre, Old Glory (Peter) at Writers’ Theatre, The Big Meal (Man #2) at American Theater Company, Picasso at the Lapin Agile (Picasso) at Steppenwolf Theatre Company, and The Herbal Bed (Rafe) at Chicago Shakespeare Theater.  Regional credits include Cyrano de Bergerac (Cyrano) at the Illinois Shakespeare Festival.  Recent television credits include Chicago Fire (NBC) and Unemployed (MTV).  Philip Earl Johnson has also performed for 23 years as MooNiE the Magnif’Cent.

Elizabeth Ledo (Basque/DuBoise/Guard – The Misanthrope; Darine - Tartuffe) previously appeared at Court in The Comedy of Errors, The Real Thing, Uncle Vanya, and Titus Andronicus.  Chicago credits include: Boleros for the Disenchanted (Goodman Theatre), Amadeus, Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Funk It Up About Nothin’ (Chicago Shakespeare Theater), Morningstar and Homebody/Kabul (Steppenwolf Theatre), The Old Curiosity Shop (Lookinglass Theatre), Arms and the Man (Writers’ Theatre), The Chalk Garden (Northlight Theatre), Barefoot in the Park and The Odd Couple (Drury Lane), Say You Love Satan (About Face Theatre), Pinocchio (Marriot Lincolnshire Theatre). Regional credits include: Romeo and Juliet and Comedy of Errors (Summer Shakespeare at Notre Dame), Arcadia (Indiana Repertory Theatre) and 20 productions with Milwaukee Repertory Theatre where some favorites include Almost Maine, Escape From Happiness, The Lonesome West, Wit, The Clean House, and The Crucible.  Elizabeth is a voice talent with Stewart Talent Agency and has done numerous televisions and radio spots as well as a regular with The Twilight Zone Radio Dramas produced by The Falcon Picture Group.  Elizabeth is a proud graduate of Loyola University of Chicago and has been a member of Actors Equity since 1999.

Patrese D. McClain (Eliante – The Misanthrope; Elmire - Tartuffe) previously appeared at Court Theatre in Spunk. She was recently seen in Ruined (St. Louis Black Repertory Company) and ABC’s Detroit 1-8-7. Chicago credits include Goodman Theatre, Lookingglass Theatre Company, and CollaborAction Theatre, where she is a proud member. Regional credits include Two Trains Running (Geva Theatre Center, Rochester, NY) and a Kevin Kline-nominated performance in Crumbs from the Table of Joy (Mustard Seed Theatre, St. Louis). She received her B.F.A. from Howard University and her M.F.A. from Pennsylvania State University. Patrese is also the Executive Director of Pure ART, a non-profit organization that offers arts education outreach to inner city youth and produces events to showcase local artists.

Michael Pogue (Clitandre – The Misanthrope; Cleante - Tartuffe) returns to Court Theatre where he previously appeared in Angels in America and Spunk. His other credits include The Brother/Sister Plays and Carter’s Way at Steppenwolf Theatre Company; Radio Golf at Raven Theatre; Lobby Hero at Redtwist Theatre; Night and Day at Remy Bumppo Theatre Company; and Six Degrees of Separation at Eclipse Theatre Company.

A.C. Smith (Oronte – The Misanthrope; Orgon - Tartuffe) makes his seventh appearance at Court Theatre. Past productions include, Jitney, the world premiere of Invisible Man, Fences (Jeff Award – Actor in a Principal Role – Play), The First Breeze of Summer, The Piano Lesson, and Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.  Smith, a Chicago native, has performed in many theaters here, including Victory Gardens Theatre, Timeline Theatre Company, Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Goodman Theatre, Chicago Center for the Performing Arts, Illinois Theatre Center, Second City, and Chicago Shakespeare Theater. Smith has also performed in many regional theatres all across the country. When not in Chicago, he can often be seen performing at the St. Louis Black Repertory Company, where he has been a member for over seventeen years, and is a nine time Woody King Jr. Award winner.

Travis Turner (Acaste – The Misanthrope; Valere - Tartuffe) returns to Court Theatre where his credits include The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess, Carousel (also Long Wharf Theatre in New Haven, CT) and Raisin (Black Theatre Alliance Award Nomination, Best Featured Actor). Other credits include: Britten's A Midsummer Night's Dream (Lyric Opera of Chicago); Loving Repeating: A Musical of Gertrude Stein (About Face); Ragtime and High School Musical (Drury Lane Oakbrook); Hairspray, The 25th Annual Putnam Co. Spelling Bee, High School Musical and Footloose (Marriott Lincolnshire); Willy Wonka, Short Shakespeare! The Taming of the Shrew, Seussical and The Princess and the Pea (Chicago Shakespeare). Education/ Training: Northwestern and the School at Steppenwolf.


Now in its 58th season, Court Theatre is guided by its mission to discover the power of classic theatre. Court endeavors to make a lasting contribution to American theatre by expanding the canon of translations, adaptations, and classic texts. Court revives lost masterpieces, illuminates familiar texts, and distinguishes fresh, modern classics. Court engages and inspires its audience by providing artistically distinguished productions, audience enrichment activities, and student educational experiences.

Court Theatre is the professional theatre in residence at the University of Chicago continuing to discover the power of classic theatre. Court Theatre operates under an agreement between the League of Resident Theatres and Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States. Productions are made possible in part by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency, and by a City Arts grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs. Court Theatre is a constituent of Theatre Communications Group, the national organization for the American Theatre; the League of Resident Theatres; the Illinois Humanities Council; the Arts Alliance Illinois; the League of Chicago Theatres; and Hyde Park Cultural Alliance.

FACT SHEET
The Misanthrope
In a society where social graces reign supreme, the cynical Alceste causes a scandal when he refuses to play his part in the charade. Torn between his love for the coquettish Célimène and the pretenses he so despises, Alceste finds himself alone in a world where words are brandished like weapons and status is defined by style. Unwilling to play the hypocrite any longer, Alceste must decide his destiny. Artistic Director Charles Newell returns to his roots in the French Baroque to give this wickedly funny and deliciously droll comedy of manners new life.

Title:        The Misanthrope
Written by:    Molière
Adaptation by:   Richard Wilbur
Directed by:    Charles Newell
Featuring:    Kamal Angelo Bolden (Philinte), Patrese D. McClain (Eliante), A.C. Smith (Oronte), Travis Turner (Acaste), Elizabeth Ledo (Basque/DuBoise/Guard), Michael Pogue (Clitandre), Grace Gealey (Celimene), Allen Gilmore (Arsinoe), and Erik Hellman (Alceste)
Dates:        Previews: May 9 – May 17, 2013
    Press opening: Saturday, May 18, 2013 at 8:00PM        
Regular run:     May 22 - June 9, 2013
Schedule:         Wed & Thurs:     7:30 PM
Fridays:    8:00 PM
Saturdays:    3:00 PM & 8:00 PM 
Sundays:          2:30 PM & 7:30 PM
Location:    Court Theatre, 5535 S. Ellis Ave.
Tickets:        $35-$45 previews
        $45-$65 regular run
Box Office:    Located at 5535 S. Ellis Avenue, Chicago; (773) 753-4472 or online www.CourtTheatre.org

Tartuffe
A devilish comedy about the art of deception and the price of misplaced faith, Molière’s Tartuffe reveals a tale as outrageous as it is insightful. When the cunning imposter Tartuffe wields a pretense of piety to capture the imagination of aging family-man Orgon, the scoundrel succeeds in insinuating himself into the patriarch’s home, throwing Orgon’s family into utter chaos. As Orgon’s foolish infatuation with Tartuffe’s fraudulent religious fervor grows, the depth of Tartuffe’s deception turns dangerous. Artistic Director Charles Newell directs the French classic Tartuffe with a provocative contemporary approach that will illicit deep laughter of recognition.

Title:        Tartuffe
Written by:    Molière
Adaptation by:    Richard Wilbur
Directed by:    Charles Newell
Featuring:    Philip Earl Johnson (Tartuffe), Kamal Angelo Bolden (Damis), Patrese D. McClain (Elmire), A.C. Smith (Orgon), Travis Turner (Valere), Elizabeth Ledo (Darine), Michael Pogue (Cleante), Grace Gealey (Mariane), Allen Gilmore (Mme Pernelle), and Erik Hellman (Laurant).  Additional cast to be announced.
Dates:        Previews: June 20 – June 27, 2013
    Press opening: Friday, June 28 at 8:00PM        
Regular run:     July 3 – July 14, 2013 (no performance on July 4)
Schedule:         Wed & Thurs:     7:30 PM
Fridays:    8:00 PM
Saturdays:    3:00 PM & 8:00 PM 
Sundays:          2:30 PM & 7:30 PM
Location:    Court Theatre, 5535 S. Ellis Ave.
Tickets:        $35-$45 previews
        $45-$65 regular run
Box Office:    Located at 5535 S. Ellis Avenue, Chicago; (773) 753-4472 or online www.CourtTheatre.org

VICIOUS RUMORS Singer Brian Allen to Miss European Tour #metal


 
VICIOUS RUMORS is about to start a massive European tour from May 3 to June 1 2013. However with great sadness we just found out singer Brian Allen will not be able to tour during the month of May due to sudden family matters. We wish Brian all the best during this time. Brian will return to VICIOUS RUMORS for the summer European tour July/ Aug 2013 and The Metal Masters Tour featuring Vicious Rumors /Leatherwolf/ Seven Witches from Sept 18 to Oct 25 2013. With everything in place for May's tour the show must go on. We are proud to announce former VICIOUS RUMORS singer and Helstar main man James Rivera will fill in for Brian Allen during the month of May/June in Europe.

"James is part of the VR family and were so proud to have him join us at this hard time" Geoff Thorpe said. "Don't miss this special line up of VR on the Electric Punishment Tour all over Europe. We want to thank all our partners, agents, promoters and fans in advance. The only bad tour is the one you don't do!! See you at the shows for night after night of unforgettable Heavy Metal."
VICIOUS RUMORS released their first video from their new studio album "Electric Punishment". The video for the song "I Am The Gun"  was filmed and produced by Mike Sloat.
http://youtu.be/lVHD-wuidKY

"Electric Punishment" is out now in Germany and Europe through SPV / Steamhammer and will be released in US/Canada on May 7th. It will be available as a jewel case version, double gatefold colored vinyl and download.

_______________________________________

VICIOUS RUMORS live 2013
03.05. E-Oviedo - Sala Tribeca
04.05. E-Madrid - Pounding Metal Festival
05.05. E-Barcelona - Boveda
07.05. D-Osnabrück - Bastard Club
08.05. D-Hamburg - Bambi Galore
09.05. D-Koblenz - Florinsmarkt
10.05. D-Duisburg - Glückaufhalle
11.05. I-Milan - Metalitalia Festival
12.05. D-Obermarchtal - Kreuz
14.05. D-Berlin - K17
15.05. D-Gifhorn - In Live
16.05. D-Siegen - Vortex
17.05. D-Weiher - Live Music Hall
18.05. CZ-Ostrava - Barrak Music Club
19.05. A-Vienna - Escape Metal Corner
20.05. HU-Budapest - Club 202
22.05. D-Munich - Garage
23.05. D-Uelsen - UJT
24.05. NL-Kerkrade - The Rock Temple
25.05. NL-Rotterdam - Baroeg
26.05. NL-Tilburg - Little Devil
28.05. D-Kassel - K19
29.05. D-Bremen - Meisenfrei
30.05. CH-Uster - Starclub
31.05. F-Bartenheim - Palace Loisirs
01.06. A-Dornbirn - Schlachthaus
26.07. D-Brande/Hörnerkirchen - Headbangers Open Air
27.07. NL-Steenwijk - Stonehenge Festival
03.08. D-Hameln - K3
10.08. B-Deinze - Alcatraz Festival

NORTH AMERICA
21.09. US-Indianapolis,IN - Metal Fest
23.09. US-St.Paul,MN - Station 4
24.09. US-Detroit,MI - iRock
28.09. US-Rochester, NY - The Montage
30.09. US-Poughkeepsie,NY - The Chance Theater
01.10. US-Manhatten.NY - Webster Hall
03.10. US-Philadelphia,PA - Voltage Lounge
05.10. US-Spartanburg,SC - Ground Zero
10.10. US-Dallas,TX - The Boiler Room
12.10. US-Arvada,CO - Jammin Joes

________________________________________

www.viciousrumors.com
www.spv.de

TESSERACT "Of Matter - Proxy" Streaming Exclusively on Spotify #freestreaming #progressiverock



UK's progressive rock band TESSERACT is gearing up for the release of their upcoming album and European tour.  Starting today  "Of Matter - Proxy", is streaming exclusively on Spotify.  Get a first listen HERE.

The band has been rehearsing nonstop and recently recorded footage of them in their practice space jamming on the track "Singularity". You can view the footage here: http://youtu.be/cGsK1M9O_EI

Video production has begun "Singularity".  The video will be produced by Horsie In The Hedge / Pari Passu Films and featuring the Emmy Award winning director of photography, Mark Wolf as well as the practical effects team that worked on Sky Fall and Prometheus, the video is sure to be as cinematically stunning as the music itself.

'Altered State' which will be released on May 28, 2013 in North America via Century Media Records.  Divided into four movements: Of Matter, Of Mind, Of Reality and Of Energy, 'Altered State' represents the transformations that TESSERACT has gone through over the past few years.  The Law of Conservation of Energy states that: In a closed system energy is conserved, nothing is lost. It merely changes from one state to another.

TESSERACT has released a series of trailers as well. They can be viewed below.

The band's first trailer release can be view here: http://youtu.be/RIysXnFSEdo
Their second trailer here: http://youtu.be/jxE0SZK5y3A
Their third trailer here:http://youtu.be/z-QmAdI7YDk
Their final trailer here http://youtu.be/7QDQWhusH88

'Altered State' was produced, mixed, mastered and engineered by TESSERACT guitarist, Acle Kahney, assisted by bassist, Amos Williams at Acle's 4D Sounds studio, and marks the first full release with new vocalist, Ashe O'Hara.

The band is set to head out with longtime friends, PERIPHERY, throughout mainland Europe and then headline dates throughout the UK just prior to album release.  Worldwide touring will follow throughout the year.

'Altered State'
Track List:
01. Of Matter - Proxy
02. Of Matter - Retrospect
03. Of Matter - Resist
04. Of Mind - Nocturne
05. Of Mind - Exile
06. Of Reality - Eclipse
07. Of Reality - Palingenesis
08. Of Reality - Calabi-Yau
09. Of Energy - Singularity
10. Of Energy - Embers

www.facebook.com/tesseractband
www.twitter.com/tesseractband
www.centurymedia.com

TOUR DATES

MAY
WITH PERIPHERY
01   LE NOUVEAU CASINO, PARIS - FR*
02   DOORNROOSJE, NIJMEGEN - NL*
04   MATRIX, BOCHUM - DE*
05   RÄUCHERKAMMER, WIESBADEN - DE*
06   MAGNET, BERLIN - DE*
07   LOGO, HAMBURG - DE*
08   LUXOR, COLOGNE - DE*
09   P60, AMSTELVEN - NL*
11   TAKEDOWN | TWENTY THIRTEEN, SOUTHAMPTON UNI, SOUTHAMPTON - UK

HEADLINE DATES WITH THE ALGORITHM AND ENOCHIAN THEORY
12   CORPORATION, SHEFFIELD - UK**
13   IVORY BLACKS, GLASGOW - UK**
14   ROADHOUSE, MANCHESTER - UK**
15   THE FLEECE, BRISTOL - UK**
16   ISLINGTON ACADEMY, LONDON - UK**

WHAT WE'RE PLAYING: Oxymoron Of The Week--Solitaire With Friends #PopCap #review #videogames #sponsored



Popcap games like Book Worm, Bejeweled  and Plants vs. Zombies have long been favs of ours.   They add new games frequently and we're super stoked to introduce their latest--Solitaire Blitz!  

*I'm a millionaire on line!   Disclosure: Thanks to Popcap games for sending us 1 million in virtual Silver (currency in the Solitaire Blitz realm) and inviting us to experience a new world of solitaire on iPad, iPhone and iPod touch. All opinions are our own.



Oxymoron Of The Week--Solitaire With Friends:

You can play alone, as the solitaire name implies, or you can kick it up a notch and compete against others to top the Leaderboard or play with your friends and see their scoresNo contest, a bit of a contest makes the game that much more fun!


Clear cards in 60 seconds, meet colorful characters, and uncover rare artwork and priceless antiques. Plus, unlock a raft of new in-game achievements including awards for accuracy, win streaks and high scores.

  Solitaire Blitz™ is now in the Apple App Store for free! 
 


This is NOT your grandma's solitaire:
 
Our family digs games--classics, card games, board games, video games and skills toys.   The kids (10 & 12) and I tried it out and Solitaire Blitz rocks!   The energy does run out fast if you don't buy more or wait patiently... but since the game itself is free, it's not too much of a pain and a worthy investment if you find yourself playing a lot.   Solitaire Blitz is a fun way to relax and unstress.  The fast paced play keeps your mind sharp and the competitive elements keep it interesting.

Solitaire Blitz morphs the game of solitaire into a timed thinking game. The object is to attempt to clear all of the cards before time runs out. There are 60 seconds on the clock by default, but you can earn more by clearing cards, or purchase more time with silver coins. Like traditional solitaire, you are presented with card stacks that you need to move around and *clear* by stacking cards on top of each other in order. However, unlike the regular games, you can stack backwards. And the Joker can be used as a wild card.



 

Solitaire Blitz for iOS lets players encounter new social twists to the classic game in a fast-paced race. The better you play, the more treasures you recover. Plus you can earn corns to purchase Boosts for the game. Set in the ocean, you will dive into uncharted waters to recover treasures including rare artwork and priceless antiques. Claiming these treasures after a game might rack up anywhere from 5 to 5000 silver coins.



Game Features:


    •    High Speed Meets High Stakes: Clear the decks in just 60 seconds. Score big bonuses for long winning streaks, accuracy and more.
    •    Amazing Achievements: Unlock a boatload of new in-game achievements, including awards for accuracy, win streaks and high scores.
    •    Fun with Fishy Friends: Get to know Pearl the mermaid, Otis the worm, Noodles the octopus and many more as they provide tips, tricks and score multipliers!
    •    A Trove of Treasures: Collect treasures, hunt for rare trinkets and earn coins to purchase boosts that supercharge your game.
    •    Fun, Social and Competitive: Connect to Facebook to compete with friends and battle it out for leaderboard supremacy!

**Click here for your FREE
Solitaire Blitz Download for iPad, iPhone and iPod touch in the App Store or play on Facebook**

 *Disclosure: Thanks to Popcap games for sponsoring this post. All opinions are our own.


Sunday, April 28, 2013

ACT OUT CLOSING: CircEAU Spring Circus Shows Today at 1pm & 4pm #circesteem #circus arts


 
CircEAU Atlantis 11am Sat 4-20-13 (Full set) by Bonnie Kenaz-Mara for ChiILMama.com

   
Final 2 shows are TODAY, Sunday 4/28 at 1pm & 4pm.   Don't miss this rockin' all ages, water themed circus arts show.   Last weekend's 3 Atlantis shows SOLD OUT.   This weekend the show is Bermuda Triangle and it showcases more of the advanced classes and the talented circus team.

 
"Wacky" water adventures infuse both CircEAU shows, Atlantis and Bermuda Triangle!


All ages will enjoy the flippin' fantastic acts!






Ever seen unicycle jump rope?!   
 
We've been part of the CircEsteem family for close to 3 years now and highly recommend their shows and their classes.  These guys are the real deal... a genuinely great non profit, talented teachers, and creative, motivated kids. 

   

Click here for more info about their fabulous circus arts SUMMER CAMP, BIRTHDAY PARTIES and the next session of classes starting up.  


Giant fun with CircEAU Atlantis on 4-20!
 Highly recommended.
 
CircEsteem used to take 7 year olds through high schoolers, with some adult classes as well.   They have recently added circus tots classes for younger kids and they're a HUGE hit.  The first show last Saturday at 11am showcased the littles as penguins and seals and they were TOO cute.
 







CircEsteem is a welcoming, nurturing program for beginning through advanced circus arts.   Aerial arts are the next best thing to flying!


My kids have both taken classes in trapeze and silks and LOVE it. 


Mermaid Sage, Atlantis CircEAU


Sage has also taken Chinese Pole, Lyra (*see her in the middle above as an ariel mermaid!), and Spanish Web.


Here are all the team kids and those they're grooming as future team performers "pre-team prep" including my two.
 
  
Ahoy Maties... Adventures abound whether you're walking the tight rope or walking the plank!!
 

CircEsteems' great for building pyramids and friendships.


These kids can juggle too!


Don't miss The Trash Monster!   If you haven't caught CircEsteem's spring shows yet, GO ALREADY!   If you're overbooked or outta town, check back with ChiIL Mama like we vote in Chi, IL... early and often.   We'll have loads of video recaps from both weekends of the Circ Shows, and more fun stills comin' your way.   But nothing compares to being there.


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