Gypsy Awards 2015

The Professional Dancers Society held the 2015 Gypsy Awards on March 29 at the Beverly Hilton Hotel.  It is always a sparkling affair that we dancers eagerly await. 

 

This year, our dear friend, Miriam Nelson (l), won a Choreographers Award for her extraordinary contribution to the dance.  Pictured to her right is Florence Henderson, Mitzi Gaynor (our president), and Carol Lawrence (who was given this year's Gypsy Award). 

 

 Me, happily arriving with those magnificent chandeliers blazing in the grand ballroom. 

 

 

 

Legend of stage and screen, Carol Lawrence, posed on stage with the young dancers who performed an especially created dance paying tribute to her career. 

At the Movies

 

 

The magnificent "Woman in Gold" shows the power of art.  Gustav Klimpt's glorious "Woman in Gold," painting, was lost to the Austrian family when it was taken as the spoils of war.  When the heir to the painting searches for and tries to claim it, the heartrending story unfolds.  I didn't consult my watch once during the film, which is my real test of a great movie. 

Rob Marshall has done it again with "Into the Woods."  He has transplanted a Sondheim musical comedy from the stage to the silver screen. Just imagine every favorite of your fairy tales, melded into one, and portrayed by amazing talent.   I didn't want it to be over. 

"Unbroken" was a true story of how the human spirit can be undaunted and even soar.  The true story tells of an Olympian, hero, and human being who overcame unimaginable trials and still had a forgiving heart. 

signed:  YOUR MATINEE MAVEN

Being With My Philanthropic Friends

Being with my philanthropic friends is always a pleasure.  The oldest organization in Malibu has honored countless students in the 5th grade and those going off to college.  Their accomplishments have been plenty and some have indicated that the recognition was a large encouragement.  

Thanks to Casa Escobar for the VIP treatment. http://la.eater.com/2014/1/29/6291347/casa-escobar-back-in-malibu-now-at-the-malibu-inn#4164770

Bidding Adieu

It is never easy to say farewell to a friend moving to a new community.  We performed together, walked on the beach, lunched (way too much) chattered, shared, and even worked on some good causes.  Ten of us met at our new neighborhood restaurant and enjoyed the lovely flowers Carole brought from her garden, extra wine and gifts to complement great pizzas.

  Thanks to Mangia for helping to make it such a nice day.  http://mangiaeatery.com/

Thrifting in Malibu

I took this photo with my new smartphone.   It will be so much fun sharing "on the spot" inspirations.  (These mirrors were for sale at a local thrift store.)  

Chuck Close at the Weisman

Portraits by Chuck Close will be on view at the Frederick R. Weisman Museum of Art at Pepperdine University in Malibu through April 5, 2015 

 ...three artists communing.

 The art lovers are fascinated with the variety of media, including: etchings, engravings, woodcuts, lithographs and (more unusual) tapestry and hand-made paper pulp.  

Contemplating the  artist's version of his close friend and contemporary composer, Phillip Glass.

Two more artists: a best selling writer and (me) artist and art dealer.  Friends and admirers, very like Chuck Close and his colleagues.  

Chuck Close studied his friends and colleagues, such as John Chamberlain, Alex Katz, and Lucas Samaras.  

 The dynamic collector, Jordan Schnitzer, inspired us all.  At age 14 he purchased his first work,  and now more than a hundred museums have been loaned the resultant collections.   Tonight we all had the sublime experience of seeing part of his passion for what artist's do.  

The exciting night was being recorded by many media.  

Another Inspiring Sky

Photo credit: Dick Johnson 

Malibu Farm at the Pier

It was Christmas Eve and there was faux snow under the mistletoe.  This is, after all, the land of make believe.  

The sun begins to go down at the pier.  

What a beautiful walk to our dinner.  

Waiting for our farm-to-table dinner.  It rivaled my childhood food, when we raised and grew everything and it was prepared by amazing cooks in the name of my Mom and Dad.  

Santa Claus, himself, gave us a ride back to our car.  

But, not before enjoying the recommended cake made of whole wheat and olive oil.  https://emmaandisabeltakela.wordpress.com/2014/09/10/malibu-farm-pier-cafe/

Each Moment More Beautiful Than the Last

...from the balcony.  November 20, 2014 near 5 p.m.  

Dance To See in Los Angeles This Week

http://www.laweekly.com/publicspectacle/2014/10/30/5-dance-shows-to-see-this-week-including-a-troupe-that-goes-gaga

Lady Gaga Moves to Malibu

I sure hope I will recognize her, if I see her at the market.  

http://la.curbed.com/archives/2014/10/lady_gaga_bought_a_crazy_secret_bowling_alley_house_in_malibu_for_23_million.php

"The Goldfinch"

I just finished reading all 771 pages of "The Goldfinch," and wished it was twice as long.  Inside the book jacket it claimed, "...beautiful, stay-up-all-night-and-tell-your-friends triumph."  I agree. www.washingtonpost.com/.../the-disappointing-novel-.

"The Valley of Amazement" and "China Dolls"

...did so enjoy the newest books by Amy Tan and Lisa See.  

Jazz Musicians Inspire Life Drawing Students

During a recent visit to LACMA www.lacma.org/‎, I happened on these art students drawing jazz musicians.  Tyler Azelton was singing to the bass of John Graves.  It was set in the gallery exhibiting John Altoon's work.  He was said to have taught life drawing this way.