Oscar put on a great show, despite the big finale flub
How many of you watched the Oscars on Sunday? Besides the finale fiasco, this was a truly entertaining awards ceremony.
I have not seen most of the films, I have to admit, but watching my telly and witnessing the overall camaraderie amongst the botox and ballgown brigade, I felt they all had a sense of unity and a true pride for the craft of acting.
Watching as each award category was honoured, it brought to light how many components there are in film making. It’s not just the story that makes a film beautiful. It’s how the director’s eye chose each camera angle, what costume makes the best statement for that particular direction and what mood we feel through the lighting and musical score, etc.
————— The World Community Film Festival begins Thursday and runs through Sunday in Kelowna.
The festival promises 28 documentaries from around the world, with a focus on environmental, social justice and human rights issues. These films are free to the public, because of the generous sponsors, and are selected to entertain, educate and inspire the whole family.
Choose your menu at worldfilmfestkelowna.net. On Friday at 7:30 p.m., I’m interested in seeing Sonic Sea, about how noise pollution is creating havoc on our deepwater sea creatures.
Saturday at 11 a.m., a short called Alive and Kicking: The Soccer Grannies of South Africa, has sparked an interest for me, as has the 1:30 p.m. film slot, which will feature Michael Moore’s Where to invade next.
The opening film, Migrant Dreams by Director Min Sook Lee, will be on Thursday at the Ki-Low-Na Friendship Society (442 Leon Ave.) at 6 p.m. The rest of the movies are at Okanagan College.
————— Don’t miss your chance to hear Texas songwriting troubadour Lyle Lovett and rootsrock songsmith John Hiatt, who have joined forces to put together a unique evening of acoustic Americana fused with country, swing, jazz, folk, gospel and blues.
Both artists are musical craftsmen and in this kind of environment, I can imagine such a collaboration to be truly inspiring and entertaining. The concert will be held on Sunday at the Kelowna Community Theatre. Tickets are around the $100 each mark, which is not cheap but with such artistry comes a price and a lifelong memory. You can purchase them through Select Your Tickets. ————— Friday in Vernon, it’s opening night for Jesus Christ Superstar. This rock musical written by Andrew Lloyd Webber is presented by Valley Vocal Arts and Big Apple Productions, and will feature a 10-piece orchestra, a 70-voices-strong chorus and an unforgettable cast.
Knowing that this show is under the direction of Melina Moore, Jim Leonard, Lana O’Brien and Judy Rose, it’s sure to be a highlight. Tickets are $39.50 at ticketseller.ca or by phone at 250-549-SHOW. The production is held at Trinity United Church, 3300 Alexis Park Dr., starting at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, with a matinee on Saturday at 1 p.m.
————— Can this be real? D.O.A. , the punk band I idolized way back when I was an angry teenager who crushed on boys that wore eye liner and a dog collars, will be performing at Doc Willoughby’s, (353 Bernard Ave.) on Friday night. Singer/guitarist Joey Keithley and his new band members are in town and on stage at 10 p.m. to put some stink back into the air with a dose of original punk music. I am in shock and would like a cup of tea and a biscuit to digest this.
————— Radio is still the best way to feel connected to the pulse of my city. I tune into local radio and join in on the conversation with others who are also listening and enjoy the banter of the jockeys before they introduce the next set of songs they will play. To be honest though, I do tend to switch back to talk radio a lot because the repetition of the playlist tends to bore me, but at least I have a little knowledge of what the “kids” are listening to.
Recently, I met with a fascinating personality, Allan Hollander. He has launched a digital radio station that caters to 50 plus year olds called Boomerradio.com. This online radio station connects through my laptop and it’s on all day whenever I want it. Each Saturday a cornucopia of great music and chat can be heard starting at 9 a.m. and designed for a more discernible palate for those who enjoy a smoother jazz blues-based nostalgia. Tune in and let me know what you think.
————— Wilbur at Wine and Art has opened the doors for a special Jazz Cafe Presents on Wednesday, March 8, when Andrea Superstein comes to town, bringing a trio of musicians. Superstein describes her sound as “think Peggy Lee meets Portishead.” I love that analogy because she uses her jazz vocal chops and infuses musical elements of pop, swing and blues that blur the boundaries of pure jazz to form an entertaining evening of live enjoyment.
Tickets are $20 if you book in advance at 778-484-2781 or fabulousPR@gmail.com. Pay $25 at the door without a reservation. The venue is at 315 Lawrence Ave.
A car park is right above the wine bar so there is plenty of parking. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. The venue has a delicious menu and of course one of the best wine lists catering to more local libations. See you there.
Anna Jacyszyn is an award winning jazz singer . Email: artafactevent@gmail.com.