The Charisma Chronicles

OTHER DESERT CITIES

2012-01-18T17:26:00.006-05:00

Last night Michael Marie took Sam, Mr. Adam and I to see Other Desert Cities. This show was a real drama. Not too long and thoroughly engaging. What's it about ryan charisma? Well, it's about lies and the effect they have on people and their lives. That's what it's really about, but the show is so smartly written that it's much more than just that. First let me say that the entire cast (5) are all stars in their own right. Check out the web site to see who is in the cast. The show centers around an upper class family at Christmas time in Palm Springs, CA. It deals with Liberal children of strict Republican parents, suicide and it's effect on people.

The cast was amazing, every performance was precise and very giving to the ensemble. This is what a Broadway drama should be. It's direction was smart, witty, dramatic and bold. I can't say how enjoyable this show really is. Should you see this show? Absolutely, surf over to Broadway.com right now and purchase your tickets!

LYSISTRATA JONES

2011-12-09T12:17:00.014-05:00

Last Tuesday Michael Marie took me to "sit through" Lysistrata Jones on Broadway. " Sit through" ryan charisma? YES. This show gets a giant "M" for MEDIOCRE. What a bland, do nothing show that I'm still trying to figure out why it was written and what was it's message? Did is suck? No. But enough of the small talk - let's dish:

This show begins with a huge loud noise (that I imagine is supposed to be a thunderclap) and dives right in. I hated that, at least pull the house lights down first to get people ready for the show. I know they think is clever and artistical, but it really only made me nervous and jumpy. Then immediately the show begins with the narrator (a big black diva) setting the scene and telling us we're in for a reinterpretation of Aristophanes’ classic comedy. See the problem here is the the big black diva didn't have a "big black diva" voice or at least the songs didn't let her showcase her voice. Oh she could sing, but belt? We'll never know. Then we meet the mediocre cast. Were they all bad ryan charisma? No, not all of them, but if you have a cast of 9 people and 4 don't cut the mustard - it's not a good talent ratio. Especially if one of them is the male lead, who had no business singing his ballad in Act 2. Just bad. The lead female Lysistrata, was perky, pretty, could act and could sing - until she hit several clunker notes. But I forgave her that. Some of the acting was plastic-y, plastic. But when you're playing stereotypes I guess that's what happens. What about the storyline ryan charisma? Well, in a nutshell Lysistrata convinces the girls (cheerleaders) in Athens University to stop "giving it up" to the boys (basketball team) until they win a basketball game as they're losers. Yes, that's the whole story. No sexy-time unless you win a basketball game. Let the fun and mayhem begin! (belch) Except it doesn't - we follow the cast through several mediocre to absolutely forgettable numbers. And the storyline was more predictable than the government "super-committee" not coming up with a budget last month. Act 1 finale was only exciting in so much that it had fun lighting. It certainly wasn't the song, or it's performance. The "nerd" had a number that was almost fun except the choreography looked like he was landing an airplane and all I could see was his underwear, as his pants hung too low, way too low for a nerdy, intellectual type. Act 2 had way too many songs, and I was watching the clock by the end of the show. The finale was fun and the costumes were college level. The set was functional but nothing to write home about. ryan charisma was anything outstanding? yes, and funny you should ask - the band was excellent. they were on top of it and out of everyone involved they appeared to have the most fun.

Should I see the show ryan charisma? No, not unless you get free tickets. It's not worth the standard Broadway $120 price. It's a MEDIOCRE show.

STICK FLY

2011-12-08T17:07:00.003-05:00

Michael Marie took me to see this new play on Broadway. Stick Fly. Before we go any further, let me say I did like it. It was a long, LONG show but I have to say after about two weeks of reflection - I liked it. I did. Why? What do you mean ryan charisma? Well... let's go:

The show is about a extremely well-to-do black family who owns a summer home in Martha's Vineyard, MA. This is the setting and the house (which is the set) is beautiful - really well done. The acting was at times, and I won't name names, a little "overdone". I almost had the feeling that the cast was rushing the show because it's so long. The story is about the family meeting up at this 2nd home for a summer weekend get together. As they arrive we meet the characters, couples, maids and the parents. The basic topic of the play is the continuation of prejudice on a socio-economic level. It's very blatant talked about and at times makes for an uncomfortable moment in the play. As an audience member I was stunned. Which, to me, is exactly what art should do. Make us think. Make us uncomfortable. This social commentary was exemplified through the various relationships, old & new in the show. Make no mistake, this show is very good, but it's not at the level of August Osage County. I could draw the similarities of the two plays, other than the actual story line. But other than the length of the show, it pales in comparison.

I have to say, if you can find inexpensive tickets you should go. But it's not quite worth the full $120/ticket price for a Broadway show.

Hugh Jackman - Back on Broadway

2011-11-22T16:35:00.004-05:00

Last Saturday night Michael Marie, Sam, Mr. Adam & I went to go see Hugh. First off, let me tell you. Yes, he's very handsome. But oddly enough, he's very slim. He's not built like "wolverine". He's built more like Tommy Tune. So how was the show Ryan Charisma? Well, it was excellent. I almost fainted at the ticket price, but I do feel we got our money's worth. Yes we sure did. Did Michael Marie get to make out with Hugh? Sadly no. Mr. Jackman presented a very cabaret style show, with Las Vegas overtones (specifically his 6 back up girls). He wore tuxedo pants & shirt, no tie, and he lost the jacket quickly. In act 2 he changed into a gold lame outfit for his "Boy From Oz" set but then right back into the tux outfit. That's all. No sets, just scrims & curtains. And an 18 piece orchestra. When Hugh was bringing it down and sat on the edge of the stage, which he did several times, he sat right in front of us. That was great, being so close to him. I had to hold Michael Marie down. If I had one issue with the show, I got the feeling his "banter" was pre-written. I may even be wrong, but I couldn't shake the feeling that it was very scripted. What a great show, I'd see him again, I mean c'mon - he opened with "One Night Only" from Dreamgirls! Should you see it, if you can - he's only here for 10 weeks and the tickets are expensive! mwah!

Happy Feet TWO - IMAX 3D

2011-11-22T16:26:00.005-05:00

Last Friday night Michael Marie and I went to go see the new Happy Feet movie. Did you like it Ryan Charisma? Sure I did. But I must be honest. The first Happy Feet was so good, and you left the theater feeling great. If I rated the original movie with an A+, I'd say this one was B+. The animation was super great. The dance numbers & choreography was so fun and exciting. The songs were fun and well sung. The star power was all there. Sadly, the story was a little weak. Yup it's the story that I didn't care for. And they threw in a climate change to boot! Should you see this? Yes, it's that fun to look at. But you won't walk out with a giant smile on your face like the last one.

NEWSIES - the musical

2011-10-17T12:53:00.003-04:00

Yesterday Michael Marie & I went to got see Newsies - the musical at Paper Mill Playhouse. This Disney production was really good. Not great ryan charisma? Well, we'll discuss that later. This means the show had a built in audience that would be the same audience for any boy band concert. As a matter of fact, a woman sitting two seats away from me said "I feel like I'm at a boy band concert." So there was hysterical screaming and applause before the show even got going. Take it for what it is. First I thought the multimedia and set were excellent. The costumes were appropriately period. What a visually fun show! The cast was big. The chorus (newsies) were about 20 men, and basically is the main character. As for the leads, I really enjoyed everyone of them. Their acting and vocals were great. Even the girl. Well, why was it only good ryan charisma? OK, let's dish...

The newsies (boy paper-carriers) were grown men. No really, they were grown men, who happened to be short. I found myself looking at the twenty-somethings and thinking "he aint `15, 16 nor even 17'. Some of them had receding hairlines. Thank god for hats, eh? I looked at these "boys" and thought wow they're sexy. Boys are not sexy, they don't have men's calves, thighs & 'boy bulges'. It was inappropriate. I wish they had used real boys in the 13 - 17 age range. Very uncomfortable. Should you see this show? Sure, but it's Disney so once is enough. I don't need to see this again.

FOLLIES

2011-10-12T17:25:00.002-04:00

A small group of us, Sam, Michael Marie, Gail, Michelle, Mr. Adam & I went to see the latest incarnation of Stephen Sondheim's Follies. Did you like it Ryan? Well, yes - very much so. It was lush, well directed, well acted and sung. There were some great directing moments that I can't give away and, as the show calls for, some real difficult, heavy moments. All done well and with a creative flair. I was asked "on a scale of 1 - 10? Well, I'd give it a 9. I would. There were things lifted from the script that were so clever. If, and that a big if, "IF" I were to have any huge criticism of the show it would be that Bernadette Peters was the weakest link. Yes, you read right. And her rendition of "In Buddy's Eyes" was stunning. Should you see this show? Yes, but bring a tissue.

The Girl Who Played With Fire

2011-08-10T14:31:00.002-04:00

Well I've finished book 2 of the Millennium Series. Just like the first book The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, this book is chock full of words straight out of the IKEA catalog. Which may as well have been replaced by triangles and circles as they only serve as placeholders when I read. Beyond that, I find that these really well developed characters move along in their story line as fast as molasses going uphill in January. God this book didn't get moving until literally the last third of the story. That's a long way when your only reading time is during my lunch hour. Honestly, I think these books would make a much better movie than book. Should you read this book? Sure, if you're good at putting together your EKBY BJÄRNUM using the directions.

Lucky Guy

2011-05-13T14:26:00.025-04:00

Last week my friend Michael Marie took Mr. Adam & I to go see Lucky Guy. I was so happy, as I thought this was going to be the new "When Pigs Fly". Boy was I wrong, really, really, REALLY wrong. Let me just get this out before we go any further:

DO NOT SEE THIS SHOW EVEN IF YOU HAVE FREE TICKETS!

Let me begin. The show itself is a story about a song "Lucky Guy" that was won in a songwriting contest to save a failing recording studio. This show runs a complete 2.5 hours (including intermission). I honestly believe that it should have cut about 6-7 songs and been presented in the new 90 minute format. That would have made it bearable. It's costumes & set were absolutely ok. I've seen better in regional / college productions, but the didn't suck. As for Varla Jean Merman, I love her and she was great in the show. But I would have one small director's question. Why didn't the Varla's character have a southern accent as the rest of the cast did? Why? She was supposed to be a country superstar. Anyway, then there is Leslie Jordan. Let me preface this with how much I adore Leslie Jordan. I think the world of his comedy on television. However, he is a common case of a screen actor attempting to do stage. It didn't work. I could swear he didn't know his lines in the first half of the show. So bad. So very, very bad. Then the lead male, Kyle Dean Massey (and my two companions agree) had the look of "I can't believe I went from Next To Normal to this!" on his face during the show. It was 2.5 hours I'll never get back. Should you see it? Hell no! So sad, and if you do go - I WARNED YOU. Not even Varla could save this one.

Aphrodite Les Follies - Kylie live

2011-05-04T14:50:00.011-04:00

Last night Mr. Adam, Michael Marie & me went to see Kylie Minogue in her Aphrodite Les Follies Tour at Hammerstein Ballroom in NYC. WOW! What a great show. What gorgeous dancers. What fabulous D&G costumes. Kylie was outstanding!

Her show was a multi-media spectacle complete with ultra-buff muscle boys hanging from a string. Who could ask for more? The theme was Greek & Roman gods & goddesses and it was phenomenal. She sounded great. Aside from some new arrangements her voice sounded remarkably like her recordings. This was no Britney concert, she sang & she danced. As a matter of fact Kylie did more performing in her first 3 songs than Britney did in all of her last Circus concert.

Kylie did many of her hits and obviously a few new numbers from her new CD. She reworked "slow" into a lovely jazz ballad and surprised the audience with a cover of the Eurythmics' "heaven must be missing an angel". Really a fun time, and really... if you haven't seen her live. Her show is quite spectacular. Did I mention the dancers were HOT? Go, and now!

How to Succeed in Business...

2011-05-03T12:44:00.004-04:00

Last Saturday I took Mr. Adam, Mom & Dad to go see How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. Wow, what a great production! I can't begin to tell you what a wonderful show it was. But I'll try...

Now first I must confess that I'm familiar with this show. But the charm that Daniel Radcliffe brought to this role was really top notch. He danced & sang like a Broadway pro. John LarRoquette was really great as well and chewed the scenery from square one. The voice of the book was read by America's favorite closet case (no not Ricky Martin) Anderson Cooper. The story is a glossy, sugary story of a window washer's rise through the ranks of a big New York company. Great production numbers and one of the most unique takes on the show was "Grand Old Ivy" number that was turned into a men's chorus showstopper. I can't tell you how many times the audience roared with applause during this show. But I do promise you'll walk out pleased that you saw it. I love fluffy shows and this one is the fluffiest on Broadway right now. Should you see it? Yes, you should - but I'm pretty sure you'll have a really tough time getting tickets. Good luck!

The Book of Mormon

2011-05-02T14:41:00.007-04:00

Last week I took Mr. Adam to see The Book of Mormon. It was very good. Let me 'splain...

This highly sold out show here in NYC is just what the Broadway needed. A new fresh show, with original songs not based on a book, not based on a movie and not a revival. Instead someone used their imagination. wow! This show, which is chock full of talent and no star power. Not necessary. This show is irreverently funny. Not as irreverent as I would have personally liked, but it's sure to offend a few bible-belters. I feel the message of the show is actually a good message. What it is, you'll have to see for yourself. That is, if you can get your hands on some tickets. This show is so funny that at times I wasn't sure what was happening on stage because of the loud laughter in the audience. The story is basically about two Mormon brothers going into adulthood by going out into the world to recruit people into the Mormon faith. Ugh, I know. Well, everyone wanted Hawaii, France or Disney World but our main characters got Uganda. Then the mayhem ensues. I don't want to tell you much, because I feel this kind of humor is best when you don't see it coming. This show has a fun set, cute costumes, a hysterical book and even funnier lyrics. Should you see it? Hell yes, I would love to see it again and I don't normally see shows twice. NOW GO GET TICKETS!

The Normal Heart

2011-04-26T16:49:00.004-04:00

Last Saturday Michael Marie took me to see the famous The Normal Heart by Larry Kramer.

Now I've never seen the play, I've never read it, but I was familiar with the subject matter of the show. So who has been affected by AIDS? Know anyone living with HIV? Know anyone who died of AIDS or AIDS related illnesses?

This play is exactly about that. It takes place in the 80's when no one knew what was going on. There was no test, there were no meds and there certainly wasn't any concern from the government. This play takes the disease and puts it on the kitchen table for all to see. It lays the blame where it belongs at the feet of Ronald Regan & Mayor Koch of NYC. Shame on them, especially Koch - the big old closeted homo. The shame that the Regan administration must carry for eternity is huge. Years were wasted. Something should/could have been done when there were under 300 cases, but gays & certainly "gay diseases" were political hot potatoes. So let the gays die, they earned the disease. Shame, shame and another helping of shame. As a side note, I will never, ever let any Republican get away with saying Regan was a heroic president. He was a coward and did NOT do the right thing. How fucking Christian.

Back to the show, I really enjoyed it. Sure it was very sad. But it portrayed the disease, it's victims & the people who tried to help beautifully. The extremely well written play was phenomenal. I really, really enjoyed it. Would I see it again. I don't know - it's very upsetting. But should you see it? Fuck YES especially if you're a gay or a Republican.

Catch Me If You Can

2011-04-01T11:58:00.005-04:00

Wow! Last night Michael Marie took Adam & I to see Catch Me If You Can on Broadway. First off, we had great seats. I felt like I was in the show. This musical followed the book & movie pretty accurately. I found the score catchy and hummable. the performances were outstanding. But let's chat...

The show was presented in a 60's/70's variety show way (Think Dean Martin & the Gold Diggers). The leads were great. Their voices soared. The set was a white washed bandstand that opened up and moved around, all the while the entire orchestra sat on it. Has it been done before? Sure, but it was done well. Very well. I found this show moved along and even the two ballads didn't bore me. Sometimes my mind wanders during dull songs. OK, my mind wanders no matter what. Anyway, I can't not mention the HOT girls in the chorus. All bodies, like Dean Martin would have. So ladies if your man doesn't like the Broadway, this is one way to get him in. Lure him with these girls with smoking bodies. I really, really liked this show. Should you see it? Hell yes! But get tickets now, cause they're gonna sell out.

PRISCILLA - Queen of the Desert

2011-03-16T17:25:00.003-04:00

Wednesday night Michael Marie took Sam, Mr. Adam & myself to go see Priscilla Queen of the Desert - the musical on Broadway.

FANTASTICAL! I loved it. The show follows the Australian indie film almost exactly. If I were to describe the show I would say "Mamma Mia for gays... only better!" Where do I begin? The fabulous costumes? The incredible bus/set? How about the awesome acting? Maybe I just liked the physically beautiful mens? Put it all together and you got one fun-ass show.

The show is about 3 drag queens (technically two drag queens & one trannie - yes bitches, I wrote trannie - get over it) driving through the Australian Outback in a beat up bus. The mayhem ensues the minute the play begins. Some of the best choreography I've seen on Broadway in quite a while. From fleshy drag numbers to completely fleshed out Broadway show stopping numbers. A few that come to mind are "Don't Leave Me This Way, McArthur Park & Material Girl." Yes this show is a jukebox musical, but it's story is first and foremost then the music fits in, unlike the other jukebox musicals where the story is built around the songs. And it shows. I loved it, I'll see it again, and maybe again! Should you see it! RUN, DON'T WALK, especially if you like fabulous drag queens and irreverent humor. kisses!

ARCADIA

2011-03-16T17:18:00.002-04:00

OK peeps, last week Michael Marie took me to see this Tom Stoppard show. It's described as a lush production. Good lord it isn't. It's technically 3 hours I'll never get back. There I said it. Sometimes artsy fartsy isn't good. And this people is so dull, so dreary and so uninteresting that I can't believe the show had broadway celebrities in it. Yes, it was that bad.

First off, who cares what Lord Byron did with guns? Who cares if he was framed for a murder, or if the murder even was a murder? It was SO long ago. And the scandel of a teacher falling for his pupil has been done 100 times and I don't find it shocking nor titilating. Just fodder. I would love to go on and tell you how the old British accents were so thick that I didn't understand half the lines that certain charectars were saying. Or that the modern day charecters were so clean and developed that you actually understood their subtext. But this show is such a failure, in Broadway standards, that it's a wonder that it's still running at all. Blech. Should you go see it? ONLY IF YOU HAVE INSOMNIA.

The Angel's Game

2011-03-09T17:28:00.007-05:00

First off, I really, really, REALLY loved this book. This is the second book by Carlos Ruiz Zafon. It was a good sized book, a novel, if you will and I have to say if you're a reader, you'll enjoy this book. Now if you read Zafon's first book The Shadow of the Wind, you would know about this "secret library" where all the prohibited books are stored. Well, this story, although it has nothing to do with the first book, uses that same "secret library". But boy oh boy, what a different but really great story. It's a period piece, it's a mystery, it's horror, it's film noir. But enough gushing.

The story is about a writer named David Martin who takes you through is career as a writer. His struggle with publishing houses and pursuing a literary career. He finds out he has a brain tumor and has less than a year to live when he meets a man who changes everything. This is where the story takes off. What happens to his brain tumor? You'll have to read the book. This stranger offers him a large sum of money to write a new bible. Not re-write the bible but a whole new one. David Martin accepts this offer and the fast paces story ensues. I can't begin to tell you how much I enjoyed this book. It reads like fine literature. Should you read it? Sure, but make sure you're a real reader. It's a novel, not a book. Kissy, kiss, kiss, kiss!

elf

2010-11-10T16:49:00.004-05:00

Last week my friend Michael Marie took me to see elf on Broadway. No not the movie. But I'll tell you it was good. Although the book of the show cut a few corners of the story from the movie, it pretty much followed it exactly. I have to say, for what this show is, I really enjoyed it. A fluffy, mean nothing musical with a big cast, nice sets and multimedia that was, at times, breathtaking. I mean who wouldn't want to sled through a forest of candy canes? The music is fun, yet forgettable. The costumes were colorful and fun. Will this show win awards? I doubt it. Will children enjoy it? Yes.

I must say that the lead Sebastian Arcelus (Buddy Elf) was phenomenal. So very likable and so very talented. And he's straight! hmmm... go figure! Anyway, the show started off with Santa (George Wendt) as our narrator. Good choices. Should you see the show? Sure, it closes January 2nd so go soon!

The Scottsboro Boys

2010-10-21T17:11:00.007-04:00

Damn! Damn! Damn!!!

Michael Marie took Mr. Adam & myself to see this show. The Scottsboro Boys is the final collaboration by musical theatre giants John Kander and Fred Ebb. And man, did they pack a punch right into my my sense of right and wrong. There was SO much talent on the stage that I was in awe. So many levels to this script and it was so clever. But I was horrified by the subject matter. Honestly, the story gave me nightmares. I'm still disturbed that human beings are responsible for this. Let me 'splain...

The show starts off in the fashion of a minstrel show of the 1930's. We're here to entertain you, says the only white character in the show and then tells us we're going to tell you the story of "The Scottsboro Boys", only this time the true story. And what a story it is. The whole show/story is presented as if you're watching said minstrel show with several of the 9 "Scottsboro Boys" playing duel roles for the sake of the story line. They sing, they dance, they move the set (which consists of about 14 chairs). I was aghast. I wanted to cry. I had nightmares. What a great show, what a horrible story. I still can't shake it as I related to the story a gay man. I mean, first the witch hunts, then the slaves and now the gays. It's appears the south just needs to hate. Oh and hate it did in this story. Should you see this show? YES! And don't cry on your way out when you see pictures of the real Scottsboro Boys. Cause it will break your heart.

LOMBARDI

2010-10-20T17:57:00.007-04:00

Michael took me to see this play at Circle in the Square. First off, yes - it is about football. Football is the one with the brown diamond shaped ball right? The show is Lombardi. First off, the show had 6 characters and was performed in the round. I wasn't sure I was going to enjoy this sports themed show as we all know - sports are blatant expressions of gay oppression. But I digress. What I did find was that this show was not only something that the ladies would enjoy, but they could bring their husbands along and they wouldn't sleep through the $120 ticket price. That's right, this show is husband approved. Remember that. But back to me. I found this show riveting and it pulled me right in. I love naked stages and simple props with tough, on-the-mark acting. This show delivered, although the stage wasn't quite naked. But let's dish...

This show was about Vince Lombardi the famed football coach that the Superbowl trophy is named after. The narrator of the story is a journalist who is spending one week with Lombardi, his wife and the Packers football team to do a cover story on Lombardi. He's a gruff man, with vulgar language and a loud demeanor. Beyond that, you learn he has passion, passion for what he does. The time period that this week takes place is after the Packers won their 2nd Superbowl. I really enjoyed this show. Should you see it? Yes, you should. And I still haven't figured out who shoots the puck.

La Bête

2010-10-15T16:49:00.010-04:00

My friend Michael Marie took me to see La Bête. I really didn't know what to expect but I'll tell you, I really, REALLY liked it. OK, let's go. First off I have to say Mark Rylance was amazing. Did I say 'amazing'? Good, 'cause that's exactly what he was. The show is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. 45 minutes of which, was Mr. Rylance's entrance monologue. It was phenomenal. He'll win awards. But enough about performance. The really interesting aspect of this is the actual story and how it's told. The show is a commentary on today's tastes and education levels as illustrated through plays. Highbrow, lowbrow, genius or not. Although the story takes place in a generic historical past it was written in 1991. It begs the questions "for a play to sell out, does it have to be a sell out?" This is the theme of the entire show. I really, really thought this show was excellent on several levels, including the script. Which, was entirely written in rhyming couplets - THE ENTIRE SHOW. If you really, really like theater - this is a must see, if only for the monologue. Loved it!

The Addams Family

2010-09-21T12:49:00.002-04:00

Last Saturday Michael Marie took me to see The Addams Family on Broadway. I have to be honest, I didn't have high hopes for this show as the word on the street is that is really, REALLY bad. But I like Bebe Neuwirth so I figured I could sit through Nathan Lane doing is regular old shtick. Was I wrong, let's dish...

First Bebe was OK, but not fabulous. She looked great. This was Nathan's show hands down. And you know what? He was different in it. Not the same Nathan we've seen in his past shows. I really enjoyed his Gomez. The rest of the cast was pretty good. Truly the set was amazing and fun to look at. In general, the stage craft used in this show was excellent, but not game changing or groundbreaking.

The real problem with this show is the story. It's a tried and true story that we've seen in many other stories over the years. As a matter of fact, it's the exact same story as La Cage Aux Folles. Only less gay and more monster. Same story guys. So overall, I'm glad that I saw this show, but even gladerer that I didn't buy a ticket. Should you go see this? Eh, sure, if the tickets are cheap & you've seen everything else already.

Joan Rivers - A Piece of Work

2010-06-18T15:03:00.006-04:00

Last Saturday, Evan, Jeffrey, Scott, Mr. Adam & I went to go see Joan Rivers - A Piece of Work. I enjoyed this documentary. If I took nothing else from this film, it was how hard this woman works. She's driven. I don't know if I would want to work so much at her age. I found this movie very enjoyable. There's many stars cameos in this film also. Which was very interesting. Joan seems to have a love/hate relationship with Kathy Griffin. But Kathy really idolizes her.

The business aspect of the movie is kind of a downer. At Joan's age I really thought she would be all set. But she's just out there. I got the feeling that she'll die doing her stand up. Should you see this documentary? Yes, it's pretty good, but it will be just as good on DVD. kisses!

Sex And The City 2

2010-06-02T11:55:00.008-04:00

Sunday night, Jim, Geoff, Sam, Michael, Dan, Mr. Adam & I went to fulfill our gay obligation to see Sex And the City 2. Now I'll be honest, I did not have high expectations of this film. As a matter of fact, I only went opening weekend because Mr. Adam really, really wanted to. So let's dish...

"ryan charisma didn't you like it?" Well, in a word "yes, yes I did." Let's just go over a few points that struck me though. Sarah Jessica Parker looked good. The girl has the slimmest body and therefore can wear clothes that no normal woman could wear. She looked good, especially since she finally had the facial mole removed. Thank you Sarah, why did you wait so long? Her character Carrie obsessed over finally being married to Big. I mean really? She obsessed over marrying him, all at the peril of both Berger & Aidan relationships. So she got Big, but in true nagging bitch form, she undermines her own healthy marriage. Why do straight men put up with that shit? I'll never understand. Anyway, the long & short of it is. Samantha gets invited to Abu Dahbi and naturally, she gets to take along 3 friends. Don't all potential clients do that for potential hires? Now Charlotte (the stay at home mom) has both a life of luxury & a nanny. But her life is so hard. How do women do it without help? Then, there's Miranda who got the best husband of all... Steve, and she's sad at work. Her new boss is disrespecting her. So she quits her job! What? That's the American dream right there. As far as I'm concerned the movie could stop then, I would have been happy. I support quitting horrible jobs. Oh wait, I can't do that. So there's your set up. All these ladies have nothing making them stay in NYC so they're all free for their 'free' trip to Abu Dahbi. Yeah.

Once we get there we learn that Carrie is a fool for telling Big that she kissed, yes that's all, kissed Big. I was like "yes? ...and?" Charlotte is sure her husband is banging her nanny, which was her biggest obstacle. She didn't want to lose her nanny. Who would when you don't have to work and live such an affluent life. Life is so difficult. Samantha was going through "the change" and taking everyone with her, as her Suzanne Sommers' vitamins & hormones were taken away at the airport by customs upon arriving in Abu Dahbi. Naturally, this was the main source of most of Samantha's jokes. I won't tell you much more as I don't want to give it all away. Let's just say that if you can suspend your disbelief for 2 hours, and not be jealous of clothes, shoes, lifestyles, husbands & vacations that you'll never ever be able to afford. You'll like the movie too!

The ladies are no longer relate-able, but this movie was SO much better than the initial reviews led me to believe. I liked it. Should you see it? Yes.

La Cage Aux Folles

2010-05-21T12:17:00.005-04:00

Wednesday night Michael Marie took me to see the latest incarnation of La Cage Aux Folles here in NYC. The pre-buzz about the show was not good. But the reviews were great. So let's see what we thought, shall we? First off the two leads Kelsey Grammer & Douglas Hodge were wonderful. I totally believe Kelsey was a gay man. And his singing was good. For a show that I think of as a "singer's" show, I'll tell you - neither lead could sing. Well, sing great. But it didn't matter, you loved them. Doug Hodge was phenomenal. He wasn't a Nathan Lane copycat at all. Which is refreshing since the last La Cage's (at the Marquee) was. The director found jokes and laughs in places there never were. I've seen this show several times and I have to say. This is the best version I've ever seen.

The Cagelles were super, their choreography was superb. I really, really enjoyed this show. As for the set, they made the theater into the nightclub with posters of Albin & Georges hanging up in the entrance and we were greeted by one of the Cagelles going in. This show was done really, really well. Should you see it? Hell yes. And if I were you, I'd get my tickets now because after it wins all those Tony Awards - you'll never get in. kiss kiss...

Promises, Promises

2010-05-18T14:28:00.008-04:00

Last Tuesday, Mr. Adam took me to see Promises, Promises on Broadway. What did you think of it ryan charisma? Well, I'll tell you...

First off, the show was good. I liked it. I really did. BUT, I thought it went on WAY too long. There are definitely 2 - 3 numbers that could be cut completely. The cast was generally 10 - 15 years too old for their characters, but when this is done evenly I don't mind it so much. The sets were great as were the costumes. Now as for the big brew-ha-ha regarding Sean Hayes' ability to play a straight man. He was fine, and as a matter of fact, he sang so much better than I ever expected. I didn't find myself thinking "oh he's a gay - I don't buy it." He was good and Kristin was great! Should you see this? Sure, it's the kind of show you'd take an out-of-towner to see. Just be ready, this show goes on and on. And on, and on, and on...

The Great American Trailer Park Musical

2010-05-07T16:07:00.003-04:00

Well kids, last weekend I went back to Boston to have a mini reunion with my friends from undergrad. We all decided to go see a show. This show - The Great America Trailer Park Musical. How was it? Let's go...

First of all this show is not going to change your life, or make you understand a complex issue nor is it going to feed the starving babies of Africa. It's a fluffy, sweet, comic book style show with as much depth as Carrie Prejean. I thought it was a fun show though, with catchy toe tapping tunes that basically, you won't remember long enough to whistle on your way out of this 90 minute piece of theater. Is that a bad thing? I don't think so. It is what it is. I found some of the lyrics hysterical, and who doesn't like a good joke? Or a great voice for that matter.

The cast was super talented. My favorite was the the greek chorus of three trailer park women (Kerry Dowling, Santina Umbach & Mary Callanan) who made "classless" an art form. Great voices all the way around but special mention to David Benoit whose voice is only getting better & better as the years go by. The show seemed to be a very close copy of the New York off-Broadway production. I don't know if the director didn't have his own take on the show or if reproductions are his "thing", but why bother directing? I would have just sent the cast to see the show in NYC and saved the director's fee. Lack of originality aside, the show still showed up to entertain. It's a great night out if you're having cocktails first. The cast is funny as hell and the show really doesn't ask much of you as it's short. Should you go see it? Yes, well... unless you've already seen it in NYC.

Pride And Prejudice And Zombies

2010-05-07T15:40:00.004-04:00

This was quite an experience. This novel by Seth Grahame-Smith took the 1813 classic novel by Jane Austin and made it into a zombie-type book. Well, what did you think ryan charisma? I have to be honest. All the "Jane Austin-ish" writing & proper drawing room etiquette made this book drag on a bit. The zombie part was woven into the original book quite well, and if anything - I wanted more of the zombie hunting and less of the "turn of the century" husband hunting. At times I wasn't even sure I wanted to finish the book. But I'm glad I did. The book does pick up towards the end, but all in all - it's a drag. It really is. I'd say pick this up for a quick read, but you know what - I think this would make a much better movie. So should you read it? No, don't - wait for the movie, apparently they're making one as we speak. kisses!

next to normal

2010-03-25T15:23:00.009-04:00

Last Saturday Michael Marie took Sam, Mr. Adam & I to see next to normal on Broadway. It was great. Not just I enjoyed it great, but cutting edge, new direction in theater great! First off, I have to tell you that we saw two of the understudies. Sadly, Alice Ripley (Tony winner) wasn't on, but I did enjoy her understudy Jessica Phillips. She did a fine job. Also not present at the performance was J. Robert Spencer (who is known to be out more than in lately). Spencer was played by Michael Berry. I was really looking forward to seeing Spencer (I find him attractive-ish) but I must say the understudies did great. They usually do. But let's dish...

This show is so groundbreaking because it deals witch such taboo, modern subjects. It openly and fearlessly deals with mental illness in such a frank, nonjudgmental way. I don't know how this show lost the Tony for 'best new musical' to Billy Elliot - which I loved too. So,... in a nutshell, Diana & Dan get pregnant. She decides to have the baby and get married. Baby dies 8 months after birth. She realizes she didn't belong in the marriage but stays. They have another child (daughter) to ease the pain of losing the first. 19 years later, she's delirious and sees her 19 yo boy who is really dead. Mom is medicated up and can't deal. Daughter hates her mother for not loving her the way she loves her dead son. Daughter slowly becomes mother. Dad is just trying to be the good guy and do the right thing. This show has so many levels. So many dimensions to what is going on. I absolutely loved it. It really is a must see. I love smart shows. And this shit is da' bomb!

The Crazies

2010-03-01T15:08:00.005-05:00

Well, I took Mr. Adam to go see a scary movie! Let's go...

This movie, The Crazies was a zombie flick with a twist. It used the same bio-weapon spill to create the zombies, but they didn't crave brains nor were they actually reanimated dead. They were diseased killers. The movie asked us to suspend our disbelief which I happily did, but boy did I have questions when the movie was over. I liked this film. It had all the ingredients to make it interesting and suspense filled. The gore was there, but it wasn't gratuitous. I would recommend this to anyone who really likes horror flicks. It's one of the better ones. But not the best and certainly not original. Think 28 days later. Rent it.

next fall

2010-02-26T11:57:00.004-05:00

Wow. Michael took Mr. Adam & myself to see the play "next fall". I really liked this show. What's it about ryan charisma? Well, it's a full length play (2 acts) which is a dying style on Broadway. And if that doesn't excite you. The play begins with a horrible car accident and you're in the waiting room. Slowly you meet the characters. The story revolves around a gay relationship (male) where one is an extremely devout Christian & the other is nothing. This isn't the only theme, but it's one of the big ones. As the story proceeds, we find out that the devout Christian is closeted has divorced parents, a born again father, and will come out... (wait for it)... "next fall." As we proceed we meet two other characters, the fag hag & the self loathing gay. Oh this play is full of dogma & hypocritical beliefs. So naturally, the hypocritical Christian gay states "he's not afraid to die because he accepted Jesus" well, he gets hit by a car. Oh this play pulls you in, chews you up and spits ya out. I secretly wished for one or two more scenes, but it leaves you to figure out what happened. It's heart wrenching, real and holds a mirror up to issues and situations that gay couples face regularly. Should you see this? Oh yes. Yes you should, it's so nice to see a dramatic gay play that isn't about HIV.

A Behanding in Spokane

2010-02-18T15:09:00.003-05:00

My, my, my, my, my, my....my. Last night Michael took me to see A Behanding In Spokane. This play was written by Martin McDonagh, who also wrote The Beauty Queen Of Leenane & The Pillowman. The set was a run-down, flea bag hotel room. And the format was the newfangled 90 minute, no intermission show that is taking over Broadway.

First I need to tell everyone that Christopher Walken is creepy. Even as an old man, and he is no spring chicken, Walken is scary with a gun in his hand. And when I say hand, I mean his character has only one hand. That's the premise of this black comedy. A one-handed man is searching for 47 years for his hand he lost violently as a child. He searches the United States looking for people who have hands to sell. Now, yes this is gross. I won't tell you the outcome, but the small 4 man cast is really, really good. But I have to be honest, and with all sincerity. Walken made some bold choices for his role, his monologues (and there were many of them in the show) had some fun Walken(esque) deliveries. But I have to say, he didn't have much stagecraft going on. By that I mean Walken was being a film actor. I don't think he once used his horizon line. And he certainly didn't use a stage voice. Luckily the theater was small so that wasn't really an issue. But when you saw/heard him next to the other actors who were using stagecraft - it showed. Did I like this show? Hell yea! Should you see it? Yes, especially if you like a bit of a scare in a show.

Inglorious Bastards

2010-02-18T14:49:00.005-05:00

So last Sunday night Mr. Adam & I rented Inglorious Bastards. I'm not a big war movie person, but it's nominated for an Academy Award and I do happen to like Quentin Terratino. I'm also somewhat squeamish so the gratuitous violence doesn't enrich a movie for me either. But let's dish...

This story is basically a fantasy story about what a small group of American Jews do to the Nazis. They torture, kill and maim them. It was a two fold story, while I love seeing the underdog win and I really did enjoy seeing the Nazis suffer. I really felt like two wrongs were not making a right. While one can never pardon such an atrocity as the Holocaust, I don't feel that the Jews becoming suicide bombers was a good answer. I found this movie a little gratuitous on the violence, but I did expect that from a Tarrentino film. I found the idea of a small band of Jews taking revenge upon the Nazis awesome.

So I'll say, I liked this movie. I did. I'm just not one for witnessing violence. Violence a group of people actually deserved.

GILEAD

2010-02-03T16:59:00.005-05:00

Oh boy my pretties. I read a religious(ish) book. What would Madonna do? Dedicate an entire CD & tour to it? Anyway, this book is pretty good, not to mention a quick read. I'll admit, I didn't hate it. I really didn't. And those of you that know me, know how I feel about basically anything based in religion. It makes me ill. But we'll carry on. The story is an elderly father's (who happens to be a Reverend) letter to his toddler son. He knows he has a heart issue that will kill him sooner or later, probably sooner. Yes, I did cry at the end. But it's not the ending you expect. Yes the elderly die, but the death in the end isn't our main character, it's his best friend/confidant's death of old age. It killed me to read that part.

So the story is this complex. The narrator talks about his childhood, father & grandfather, friends, family and wife. Events that he felt shaped his life and world view. His father & grandfather were both Reverends as well. The narrators interpretations of the Bible and how they've changed over the years. There was some interesting insight in this book. Is it valid as the book is fiction? Well, to the extent that the Bible is valid. I believe the book deals with life in a small town, with small town thinking and small town death. Never breaking out of the narrow minds that bind people together whether or not they're good intentioned. Bad people are everywhere not just from "over there." Should you read this book? Eh, if you're a avid reader... sure.

Avatar IMAX

2010-01-26T17:20:00.004-05:00

Momma said we could go to the movies if I was home before midnight. So Mikey from Jersey, Sam, Steven, Mr. Adam & I all went to go see Avatar on the IMAX here in NYC. We loved it! I was totally enthralled by the special effects and the 3-D shit. I couldn't figure out how they made the blue people so realistic. I want a blue person!

Was the story original? Absolutely not. It was Pocahontas on another planet. Was the movie preachy about big business and how it destroys the endowment? Well, no - it was honest. And the facts are the facts. They didn't need to be sugarcoated so Republicans can feel good about how they don't care. I found the whole concept of the "braid" connecting with nature (wildlife, plant life and the actual planet) interesting. How we're all connected or rather - the blue people. The fight scenes both hand to hand & the war scenes were spectacular. I think I would like to see this movie again. And that is something I never do. Should you see this? Hell yes! And do on the IMAX!

The Phantom of the Opera

2010-01-25T16:53:00.004-05:00

Last Friday night Mikey from Jersey took Mr. Adam & I to the theater. We saw The Phantom of the Opera here on Broadway. OK, let's go...

The last time I saw this show (on Broadway) was in 1990 with my dear friend Meg. Mr. Adam had never seen Phantom except for the movie. So we went. Tourists. Tourists and more tourists. We had excellent orchestra seats and I have to admit, I was a little excited about seeing the show again after 20 years. We had to endure during the entire Act I of the show some dumbass foreigner's translation box turned up so loud I though I was going to kill. Phantom is a musical with specific quiet and silent points on purpose and all I heard was some female/electronic translation device running and running. I thought the Jersey guy next to us was going to kill someone. At intermission we dealt with the stupid tourists. They tried to save money and bought one translator which "should be" held next to the ear, not shared and held out like a walkie talkie. HATE! I hated her! Dumb bitch. Act II was better, well for noise levels. Let's talk the show now....

We saw the new phantom, Christine & Raoul. Can you say bad? Follow with me kids "BAD". Christine not only didn't have the vocal chops to sing her role, but she was a really bad actress. How bad ryan charisma? Well, let me say that there was nothing organic about her blocking. She walked on and moved on the stage merely hitting her marks and moving her arms. Raoul's songs were dropped to be baritone. What's with that? And no, he wasn't the understudy. I forgave Raoul somewhat, my friends didn't. The phantom - eh, I'd like to say that maybe he was just new and still getting used to the show. But from what I understand he's been swinging the role for quite a while. Too bad, it's his show and he was merely mediocre.

Should I see it ryan charisma? Well only under two circumstances: 1) if their understudies are on. I can't see how they'd be any worse. Or 2) if they recast the show. The sets, costumes and supporting cast were great and in fine shape for a play over two decades running. But those leads. Someone saved some money.

The Book of Eli

2010-01-21T17:07:00.002-05:00

Last weekend Michael, Mr. Adam & I went to go see Denzel's new flick The Book of Eli. What did you think of it ryan charisma? Well, I'll tell you. I liked it much more than my movie cohorts did. I think the post-apocalyptic storyline is WAY too common these days. But in a weird way I feel they (the post apocalyptic movies) give me preparation on how to survive when the world only has a few hundred people left and they're all eating each other. Survival skills kids, survival skills.

Denzel kicked royal ass in this movie. I really enjoyed the action scenes. The movie's storyline was interesting. Eli (Denzel Washington) has the last copy of The Bible on earth. All the others were destroyed after "the big flash" because The Bible was considered the cause of the Earth's demise. Which is totally understandable (just look at what the dumb Christian fundamentalist fucks are doing now). Eli comes across Gary Oldman's character and he wants The Bible to "control the weak minded and stupid" (ain't that the truth). Then the violence begins. I won't give away the ending, but I will tell you - it's kind of a fizzle ending. Should I see it ryan charisma? Sure, but on DVD.

Present Laughter

2010-01-21T16:52:00.003-05:00

Michael took me to see Broadway's newest old play Present Laughter starring Victor Garber. This 1930's play is not one of Noël Coward's best plays as far as I'm concerned. For a comedy it certainly had quite a few, shall we say, unfunny moments. Did you hate the show ryan charisma? No! Certainly not. But for such a large cast, it certainly isn't something I'd take an out-of-towner to go see. No matter how strong the star power is. The show for lack of a better word - drags. In Act II, Scene 1 I didn't think I would actually be able to bear a long conversation between two characters. It went on endlessly and quite frankly - I zoned it right out.

Now honestly, I'm a huge fan of many older plays. Some by
Noël Coward himself. But I just don't think this is worth $120 a ticket. There I said it. Should you go see this? Nah, only if you have a personal connection to the play. It's long and has poor "speed of life". There, I said it.

The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo

2010-01-13T17:34:00.002-05:00

Well, Momma has finished another book. This book "The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo" was pretty good. It was written by the late Stieg Larsson. Now I know that this is the first book in the Millennium Trilogy, but I have to tell you I'm very tempted not to read the other two. I'll have to wait and see. Did you like the book ryan charisma? Well, I did, but not until I was one third done with it. The book was originally written in Swedish so many of the names and cities are also Swedish. I can't tell you how distracting I found these complex words that mean nothing to me in English. But the story itself was interesting. It's a murder mystery so I won't give too much away, but I have to tell you. I only predicted half of the ending of this book. So there is some surprise.

The story is about a man who has nothing left (don't they all?) and is hired by a wealthy, elderly man to not only write the history of his wealthy family, but to find out a 30 year old missing girl mystery. Fun! Should you read this? Only if you really have a need to. I'll admit it, the whole beginning drags.

A Single Man

2010-01-12T18:09:00.004-05:00

Last weekend Mikey from Jersey, Mr. Adam & I went to go see A Single Man by Tom Ford. The movie starred Colin Firth. I have to say that this movie had me mixed up. I felt that Mr. Ford captured the late 60's, early 70's perfectly right up to the faux period cinematography. But I felt that this art house film was exceedingly "art house". I almost felt as though this was a really, really good directing student's film. But a student film none-the-less. It mirrored so many other art house films that I've seen in terms of sound, color & editing that I was torn.

Yes, I liked this film. I found the story almost unbearable. It's about a man, whose lover of 16 years dies suddenly in a car crash, and his organizing his life and matters so that he can commit suicide. Heartbreaking, heart wrenching. A very good movie with a very difficult subject matter. Should you see it? Hell yes, and let me know if you think the art house stuff was laid on a little thick? kisses, you know Momma loves you!

Up In The Air

2010-01-12T18:08:00.003-05:00

Adam, Jim and I went to go see George Clooney in Up In The Air. I have to say, I liked it. First let's chat about George Clooney. Mr. Clooney is so damn good looking. He really is a movie star. But I must say that in this film there was a "bed" scene where Mr. Clooney was shirtless. Not so pretty. Because Mr. Clooney has the chest of a 14 yo boy he fits in suits nicely. But his handsome, gorgeousness doesn't help when he's undressed. As a matter of fact, he should never do nude nor shirtless. It's not right. OK, let's chat about the movie...

I thought Up In the Air was excellent. It's definitely not a feel good movie. It's about a man who makes a living laying off employees. He moves from one company to another and does the dirty work that the bosses don't want to do. His job is to be cut lose the workers. With a job like that it's no wonder he has no responsibility with relationships. His only friends are his flyer miles. His family is his backpack. "What's in your backpack?" He has the airport down to a science, yet fails miserably with relationships. This movie doesn't have a gee wow Hollywood ending. It actually is somewhat more realistic. I won't ruin it for you, because this movie, on the big screen or on DVD will be just as good. Should you see it? Yes.

A Steady Rain

2009-12-11T17:07:00.002-05:00

Mikey from Jersey took Sam, Adam & I to see this play. I'll be honest, although this show featured two really famous movie stars, I feel it was poorly written. Let me start at the beginning.

Both Craig & Jackman were excellent, with the exception of Craig's Irish Chicago cop's accent. It sounded like he just learned it. Great performances, no really. The set was two chairs. That's it and it worked. Now the bad part. The story had no arc. It had no moral. Just a slew of monologues, with a very basic storyline that they followed. Eh. I will say that the show was far more entertaining than the reviews I had read before seeing it. I really didn't have high expectations. Overall, I liked it. It was not life changing though.

The story basically was about a Morphine addicted, family man, Chicago, Italian cop (Jackman) & his alcoholic, terminally single, Chicago, Irish cop partner (Craig). We meet them, they fight both verbally & physically, they're friends, one likes hookers, one gets mad at a pimp loses his career, they encounter a serial killer, someone dies, blah blah blah. You see?

Then after the show, Mr. Craig & Mr. Jackman auctioned off their undershirts from the stage for $30,000. They got 3 people to purchase their clothing for $10,000 each for Broadway Cares & Equity Fights AIDS. Fun!

White Christmas

2009-12-01T16:07:00.002-05:00

So Mikey from Jersey took me to see this holiday classic brought to life on stage. So let me tell you how fun this show is. If you like old fashioned tap extravaganza musicals - this is the show for you. Only second to 42nd Street is this show. Every song you know. And the cast is really talented. I must say that the men this year are far more talented than the women. But the women don't deter from the show but they do hand the show over to the male leads. I loved the production value of the show. I loved the costumes and the sets. There wasn't much to dislike - well other than the silly storyline and old fashioned style of acting.

Should you see this? eh - yes, if you like tap musicals or if you love the movie. Other than that - see a different show.

The Lost Symbol

2009-11-03T16:01:00.002-05:00

Hey kids! I'm back and I read another book. This one I've been waiting for. For a long time, I might add. So what is it? The book is the new Dan Brown - The Lost Symbol. So what did I think? Let me tell yas...

It was good. Did it pull me in the way his other books did? No, not really. But I did enjoy it. I really appreciate the amount of homework (god I still hate that word) Mr. Brown does. Say it with me now "we already don't trust the American government". It's really that simple. But the whole Masons & Secret Society stuff is pretty good. But really, not Dan's best book. It really isn't. He uses the same main character from both Davinci Code & Angels & Demons. So I felt like I had a vested interest in this story.

ryan charisma - was it a page turner like some of his other books? No, sadly it wasn't - it was OK.

Paranormal Activity

2009-11-02T17:33:00.005-05:00

Yesterday Jim, Geoffrey, Adam & I went to go see Paranormal Activity. The reviews of our group were pretty split up. So I'll discuss how "I" felt about the movie. As I should.

The movie was pretty scary. Horrorific? - a little ... yeah. It's a low budget movie given to you in the same vein of The Blair Witch Project. There's a videotape that is left behind and that's what you're watching. Not many people, a young couple & a ghost expert are the only charecters.

Will you like the movie? I think you will, but then again, some people in our group didn't like it so much. But I did!

Fela!

2009-10-27T11:13:00.003-04:00

Last night Michael took em to see Fela! at the Eugene O'Neill Theater on Broadway. What is this ryan charisma? First off, Fela is the name of a person, Fela Kuti of Nigeria. The whole theater was turned into the social club that Fela performed in back in Lagos. The set was very impressive. The sets moved and the stage rearranged for all the scenes. The dancing was top notch. But best/most of all was the music. While admittedly not my style of music, I had to acknowledge how talented this band was. No really, they were phenomenal. Fela's music was a fusion of jazz & his own homeland music. Afrobeat, and it was good.

This show is a full scale musical. Costumes, lights, sets, costumes, choreography and book. But in the end, it's not my cup of tea. I found the story the most fascinating. The injustices and corruption that the Nigerian government was responsible for was horrible. And Fela's music was calling out the government, which made him an enemy of it. Great story.

Should you see it? Only if you're one of those people, like myself, who sees so much theater that these odd shows are a nice break from Wicked & Phantom of the Opera. It's not shiny happy, It's not. It real, solid footing, story telling with factual music. Buy the CD.

The Vampire's Assistant

2009-10-27T11:06:00.002-04:00

Last Friday night Michael, Mr. Adam & I went to see The Vampire's Assistant. While both of my escorts fell asleep during the film, I (running on popcorn and vodka) stayed awake for the entire film. The movie itself was good.

I really liked the characters. However, this movie is the same old high school good kid v. the bad kid - only with a vampire twist. Which John C. Reilly did a great job at. The special effects were really good. The costumes were great. And the movie had tons of stars. Would I recommend this to you? Yes, but not in the theaters. Wait for the DVD or HBO. It's for tweens. It really is.

KYLIE (For Me, For You Tour 09)

2009-10-15T15:49:00.004-04:00

Last Tuesday night I took Mr. Adam (for his birthday) to see Kylie Minogue in concert here in NYC. WOW, wow, wow, wow! I can't even begin to describe what a fun time it was. She is a great performer with the sensibilities of a major drag queen. What was there not to like? Catchy dance songs? check. Fabulous costumes? check. Serious choreography? check. Hot dancers? double check!

I loved this show. I will admit that I only knew about 75% of the songs performed. Still, Ms. Minogue and her 5 foot stature was bigger than life and a super entertainer.

I feel so lucky that I got not only to see this show. Her first American tour ever. But we also saw her farewell performance to the USA. "I should be so lucky!"

MEMPHIS - the musical

2009-10-07T10:54:00.006-04:00

Last Wednesday night, my friend Michael took me to see Memphis - the musical. Let me tell you. I didn't expect much from this show - but it was great! Really great. Big sets, big costumes, huge cast & the choreography was phenomenal. Great show. Big budget.

The show is about a subject we've seen many, many, many, MANY times. Segregation. It basically is Hairspray - only different. The story revolves around the first DJ to play "colored music" on a white radio station. And yes, the DJ is white. He just loved the music. And the music represented in the show was great. Of course I was taken back when I heard the word "nigger" - man that word makes me shudder every time I hear it. I watched the show and couldn't believe people really thought that way. Baffling. Does the show have a pretty Hollywood ending like Hairspray? Well, no - it's a little more like real life in that aspect. But I won't ruin it for you because you should see it. You really should.

Now I won't review each performer as that's not my typical style of reviewing, but I have to mention Chad Kimball. This guy is so much a part of this show, I'm not sure an understudy/swing could do it justice. It really is his show. He plays the DJ. This guy can everything, sing, dance and act - but most of all he's awesome! His performance will earn him a nomination for a Tony - I promise. Go see this before you can't afford tickets. No really - this show is going to be big.

Brighton Beach Memoirs

2009-10-06T11:40:00.004-04:00

Last night Michael from Jersey took me to see the revival of "The Neil Simon Plays" on Broadway. We saw the first one "Brighton Beach Memoirs". Which included Lauri Metcalf (who was phenomenal) as the mother Kate. Now these two shows are running together with the same cast members (except for Eugene, as he's a 15yo kid in one, and an adult in the other) And this single cast/double show thing(y) has me intrigued... I want to see "Broadway Bound" now.

Naturally, the show is classic Neil Simon. And it was done well. Very well. In college I had done props for our production of Brighton Beach, so I knew the show pretty well. But this show, and these actors breathed some awesome freshness into this older script which takes place in late 1930's.

The set was great. The costumes were really good. The direction was very interesting as were the very full, fleshed out characters. "ryan charisma was everyone really that good?" Well, yes, but if you want me to be extremely critical. The two youngest actors in the show, acted with their hands just a tad too much. But I feel that will change as they become more comfortable with the show. I really, really liked this play. Should you see it? Yes, yes you should.

HAIR

2009-10-05T12:19:00.005-04:00

Hey kids! Guess what I saw? Yes, that's right... HAIR - "shoulder length or longer" bitches! I took my cousin Mary Ellen, Adam and Michael from Jersey to see the matinee last Saturday. And let me tell you, it was way better than I ever expected. Way, WAY better.

First off I want to say that the director Diane Paulus did an excellent job with this show. She blew life into this show, and that's no small feat considering how dated this show is. The show was kept in 1967, yet the energy and the context of the show spoke to today's generation. Now the voices were great, and the choreography was done by Karole Armitage, and she did a great job. The cast was hot, on their marks and full of energy. They were happy to be there. And we were happy they were too. I can't begin to explain how much I enjoyed this Tony Award winning revival.

The mens in the show were so good looking, and Momma isn't usually attracted to guys with long hair. But let me tell you that we saw the "Woof" swing for our performance... and I'm pretty sure I love him. So, if you're out there Woof understudy - I love you! Should you see this show? Abso-fucking-lutely! Run don't walk, I even want to see it again. I do. And not just for Woof's understudy. Well, yes for Woof's understudy but I liked the show too, I did.

The Monster of Florence

2009-09-23T12:02:00.004-04:00

WOW. I'll tell you guys, this book was very interesting. The Monster of Florence by Douglas Preston & Mario Spezi was not my typical read. As you (my favorite people on earth) know I'm not a non-fiction type of guy except for some political(ish) books. But this book really affected me. Made me think, and I hate doing that as it give me lines. But let me tell you about it...

This book is about a serial killer in Italy from 1968 - 1985. In that time straight couples didn't live together, they lived at home until they were married. So on warm summer nights they went to remote parts of the countryside to "get their grove on." This killer would interrupt them in 'flagrante delecto' - shoot the guy in the head then the woman, drag her out onto the ground and cut off her left breast and cut out her vagina to take with him. Gross right? Anyway, this true story doesn't end with the killer it tells about the theories of who the killer(s) may be, the crooked and stupidity of the local Italian police and how superstitious the native Italians were. This is a very interesting read, but at times the book became very wordy without information flow. Which bores me personally to nodding off. That aside the facts and disaster that is the Italian judicial system was fascinating.

"ryan charisma, would I like this book?" Well, first let me say - eh, probably not but I would like to update that with the fact that the copy I read (thank you Geoffrey) had the new afterword in it and that was really interesting. This current case of Amanda Knox was being tried by the same crooked prosecutor that dealt with the Monster of Florence. And he was up to his old tricks with this poor American girl. So no, don't read the book as Tom Cruise bought the movie rights and will be in the movie. hmmmmm.

The September Issue

2009-09-09T16:48:00.003-04:00

I was all artistical last weekend. Scott, Evan, Mr. Adam & myself went to see The September Issue last weekend. I'll admit, it wasn't first on my list of movies to see, but I did end up liking it.

The movie is a documentary about Vogue putting out their "September Issue" in 2007. I found Anna Wintour a complete ice bitch. There I said it. She is a bitch from the word go and all she has is sycophants who kiss her boney, badly dressed ass. Not only does she dress pauper-like and dowdy but her home is decorated in this "shabby chic" bullshit that was in style for about 3 years in the mid 90's. Ms. Wintour is a desperately lonely, crotchety, old woman who has been given her own way for far too long. Her own daughter thinks her job is laughable. Yet this whole Vogue/fashion world thinks she's something special. NEWSFLASH! She's not - her power over the magazine is. The world may end up a much prettier place once she kicks it.

"Should I see this documentary ryan charisma?" Well actually yes, yes you should see this for no other reason than to see that other employees of Vogue are actually good people who try very hard. Anna should just dry up into a ball of skinny grizzle and die though. Am I wishing her death? HELL YES! If I worked for that bitch, I'd be in prison for bludgeoning her with a paperweight. Wait for video kids, but do see it.

District 9

2009-09-09T16:39:00.003-04:00

Two weeks ago I took Mr. Adam to go see District 9. Now I'm a sucker for a good sci-fi movie. But this moved beyond typical sci-fi lame story lines and acute action adventure. Let me 'splain to you...

First I really, really liked this movie. It was one of those films that the more you thought about it the next day - the more you liked it even more. It's a human story dropped in the setting of sci-fi. It comments on how we as humans treat outsiders and (in this case) aliens we don't understand. I found this movie really did hold a mirror up to humanity and showed us our very ugly side. How we choose to think we're superior. How we actually treat those different than us. And how we move from protecting ourselves to picking on the less fortunate. I could go on and on with the parallels of this movie to how we treat immigrants, gays or even animals. Just brutal.

See this movie. I really liked it.

Beautiful People

2009-08-21T15:41:00.003-04:00

Has anyone seen this show on Logo? This book by Simon Doonan, of Barney's window display fame, was great. More of an affectionate memoir than a biography, but entertaining as hell. I chuckled and laughed out loud at some of the stories in here. Not only does the story take place during the 70's & early 80's but it's filled with the kitch and camp of it's time. Or rather, what a boy growing up during those times thought was these things. So funny.

The book is broken down into one chapter stories and although somewhat chronological, it does jump around a bit. It's filled with childhood fears & dreams like we all have and then see come to fruition, fade away or die on the vine. I'd have to say that most of the book is highly entertaining but the source of the humor is the author's sense of love for his family & friends. I must warn you that even my tiny black heart melted at one of the chapters where is good friend and roommate in LA died of AIDS. And it was heartwrenching to read. A good tear fell, but it only added to the humanity of this clever memoir.

Should you read this? Sure you should, it's good. Will it change your life? Maybe, and if the book doesn't I'm sure the TV show will.

Attack Of The Theater People

2009-07-23T17:21:00.002-04:00

Well, I've finished my first "beach read" of the summer. And I really, really liked it. Attack of the Theater People by Marc Acito was excellent for it's genre. And that genre being gay, fluffy, amusement. I'm sad because this book is part two of Mr. Acito's. The first being "How I paid for College." What's it all about ryan charisma? Well, I'll tell you.

The main character (Edward Zanni) is kicked out of Julliard for being "too jazz hands". Of course, it kills his ego and the story takes off into a fun story about how he not only bounces back, but comes to age in the midst of the 80's. AIDS and all. The references to shows playing at that time on Broadway (Starlight Express, Barbra Cook's one woman show, House of Blue Leaves) was really, really fun. I found the story read very much like a made-for-tv movie. It was fun, funny, slightly sexy and had a touch of unbelieveablilty to counter the humanity in the story. I kept thinking "I wish I read the first book". But I didn't - but that didnt' detract from my experience.

ryan charisma, should I read this book? absolutely. It's the perfect book for sitting by the pool/beach. It's light and you'll chuckle all the way through. Your life won't change, but your outlook will!

SNUFF

2009-06-16T16:13:00.002-04:00

OK kids, momma finished another book. This time I read Snuff by Chuck Palahniuk. I liked it. Not my favorite book by Mr. Palahniuk, but certainly pretty good.

What's it about ryan charisma? Well, I'll tell you. Our main character Cassie Wright is a porn film legend. She's decided to film her greatest accomplishment for the porn industry. A 600 man gang-bang film. Now you're all thinking..."ryan charisma, you were raised Christian, you shouldn't be reading about sexy times." True. But I have to say, the story doesn't take place in the gang-bang itself, but rather between three men "#72, #137 & #600) in the green room waiting for their turn on camera and the room moderator "Sheila". All the story unfolds in this room.

I love Chuck's writing. It's interesting and full of true trivia. Like, Marilyn Monroe used to cut the heel of one of her pumps to be shorter than the other so her ass would move more sexily when she walked. Good book. Yes, yes you should read it. I won't tell you the ending.

X-MEN ORIGINS: Wolverine

2009-06-02T10:02:00.002-04:00

Last weekend I took Mr. Adam to see the latest X-Men movie. X-Men Origins: Wolverine was everything I expected it to be. Like the latest Terminator movie, this was an action packed, special effect filled, movie with a light story that was easy to follow. Mr. Adam really wanted to see it, and I'm a big action movie fan anyway, so we went. And it was fun.

The movie is basically about how Wolverine came to be who he is. Not so much why he was born a mutant, but what happened when he realized he was. I can see many of these "origins" movies coming out now. This could open up a huge series of movies. And if they're as good as this one, I'm there. Should you see this movie? Abso-fucking-lutely!

kisses.

Duma Key

2009-05-29T17:01:00.002-04:00

OK childruns I'm done another book. This time I read the classic writer Stephen King. This book, Duma Key was pretty good. I'll admit, it kind of uses that Stephen King style of writing three quarters of the book before the exciting stuff starts happening.

The basic story is like this. The main character, Edgar Freemantel has a horrible construction accident that causes him to lose his arm. After months in physical rehab, a divorce and giving up his business Edgar decides to retire to Duma Key alone. He rents a big pink house on a cliff and begins to draw, which progresses to charcoals, which progresses to painting. He finds he's extremely talented but his paintings have a habit of foreseeing the future. Now all this time, he realizes that he has phantom itches and aches in his missing arm. This missing arm is the key to his psychic connection to the paintings. Then, all hell breaks lose as he finds he's not the only person through history to find this talent. Then he has to undo the evil that he has set free with these psychic paintings. Get the picture? Good.

I like Stephen King, so I generally liked this book. But I think it read more like a screenplay. It would make a great summer movie. Should you read it? Sure why not? But read it after you read what you really want to read first.

Got It?

2009-05-28T15:04:00.000-04:00

TERMINATOR: Salvation

2009-05-28T15:02:00.003-04:00

Last Saturday I took Mr. Adam to go see TERMINATOR: Salvation. Did you like it ryan charisma? Well, I did. I thought it was exactly what I expected it to be. The action was fast paced. The special effects were awesome. I don’t want to give away much story line, but Christian Bale – eh. He wasn’t particularly wonderful in this movie and after his famous diva-bitch outburst. I see very little reason to use him again. I give bitch-mouth a mediocre. Wayland Flowers & Madam could have played the John Connors role. Now as for the silent, beefy, hunky gorgeousness that is Sam Worthington. He, aside from being breathtakingly beautiful, was the movie. He had the whole inner turmoil going on. And as an audience member, I knew something was odd about his character. I can’t tell you much more, because that would give away “the beginning of the end.” Got it? Good, now go see this. It’s quality Sci-Fi/Action that can’t be beat.

...and this one goes out to all the bigots:

2009-05-20T11:24:00.001-04:00

Bon Voyage (Seattle, WA)

2009-04-09T12:47:00.001-04:00

So long my lovelies! Momma is heading off to the other side of the country to visit his friend Jason. He's having his 40th birthday and he's graduating from fashion design school and having his first runway show. Yeah! See ya'll when I get back!

kisses.

The Toxic Avenger Musical

2009-03-31T12:35:00.002-04:00

Last Friday night Michael took me to see The Toxic Avenger Musical. I have to be honest, I've never seen the original cult movie, but I have seen scenes.

Momma loved it. First, the off-Broadway New World Stages serves cocktails (and they let you bring them into the theater). I like that. Second this rock musical was awesome! Is it going to change the world? No, but who doesn't like to see a superhero monster rip off the bad guys arm and beat him with the bloody end while singing? I know I do. This hysterical show runs in the new 90 minute-no intermission format that so many shows are being done in lately. The music is catchy, toe tapping fluff with lyrics that are sometimes obscenely funny. I really, really enjoyed this show.

The cast was 5 people, 2 leads, 1 character actress, and a chorus of 2 men who play multiple roles. So damn funny. Should you see this? Absolutely, if you've seen allot on Broadway, and you want something light and fun, but Xanadu is closed. This is a good choice.

GO SEE THIS SHOW, I kinda want to see it again...

World Without End

2009-03-20T13:05:00.003-04:00

Hey my petite sex kittens! Momma finished another ginormous book. And boy this one was double, extra awesome! I adored reading this book. I adored reading the book previous to this one. They both were so damn good. Yes, I know that these books are both over 1,000 pages long. I realize that. But we're all adults now and we can handle it. Not everything needs to be the length of a good squat on the toilette. Classy, I know. Regardless, let me tell ya's all about Kingsbridge 300 years later. It's good. It's that good...

This book has, like many novels that span a lifetime, several main characters. I want to tell all of you so much about this book, but I would spoil the read. I'll tell you this much though. It exemplifies how religion and the government used each other to get more. More money, more land, more power. Greed was the issue then, much as it is now. Faith, is a beautiful thing, until it makes you look ignorant. An important factor in this book, especially in regards to how the plague was treated, and what they all believed. I can't stress how much I loved this book. If you're a reader, please read this book.

reasons to be pretty

2009-03-19T15:34:00.004-04:00

Last night my friend Michael took me to see "reasons to be pretty" by Neil LaBute. I liked it allot. It was a comedy with several sets, all impressionistic, middle class, warehouse working men & women. There were dual themes in the play. The obvious was beauty and the effects it has on both women & men. Mostly from a negative perspective. The other theme is a man coming of age type of story.

The whole play begins with a women picking a fight with her boyfriend because she heard that he referred to her as "having an ugly face." And then off goes the play. This play was taken from Off-Broadway to it new Broadway home. It's a good show, and the main character's progression from drop out, warehouse worker/womanizer to good guy is at times pitiful. But the brilliantly witty script kept the heavy scenes light enough to keep the point, but not drive home how pathetic the characters & situations really are.

If I had to pick apart this show, I would say all the performances were great. The set was OK, not awesome. Mr. LaBute's script is very funny & poignant. I thought his men's dialogue was much better written than the women's. What he wrote for the men was nothing short of brilliant. I attribute that to my assumption that the playwright is straight. He just didn't capture the way women talk/fight. It sounded constructed and still on the page. Also, there was a fight scene that just didn't work. It's necessary for the show, but stage combat is so difficult to carry off. It was way to staged looking and unbelievably brutal for the amount of blood/injury that resulted.

Yes go see this. I'm dying to know what you think.

TWILIGHT a/k/a are you fucking soft?

2009-03-05T16:02:00.003-05:00

I'll make this quick. Have you read any/all of the Twilight books? Hmmm? You may as well admit it now, as I'll call you out on it later. Have you seen the Twilight movie? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions I must ask you:

Are you 'soft as a sneaker' or do you really simply hate the gays?

That is the questions isn't it? After all, Stephanie Meyer is a Mormon. And she has donated 10% of her huge revenue to both the Mormon Church as well as to help Proposition H8 succeed. I cannot sit idly by and watch all you "so called" good people carry on about these books & this tween movie without calling you out on the carpet. Why do you think I don't deserve the same rights in marriage that you enjoy? Is this silly vampire(ishness) so fucking important that real life is too inconvenient for you to acknowledge the wrong that Ms. Meyer's has contributed to? Are you aware that your measly $15 book or $11 movie ticket goes to the Mormon Church? Do you walk around thinking my $11 won't make any difference?

NEWS(FUCKING)FLASH - it did! Now proposition H8 has passed in California.

So then next time you get all giddy and chat up Twilight, remember you're not only offending, but hurting me and my gay brothers & sisters.

Blithe Spirit

2009-03-04T15:03:00.003-05:00

Last night I saw Broadway royalty. Yes, yes I did. My friend Michael took me to see Blithe Spirit starring Ms. Angela Lansbury. Now everyone and their brother has done a Noël Coward show at some point in their dramatical training. It was so nice to see a classic, not updated, not changed just as what it is. A period piece.

What did you think ryan charisma? First off, aside from the excitement of seeing such a star studded cast. I had to admit that I've never seen nor read this specific play. It's cute. I really enjoyed Rupert Everett, he was great. And honestly, I didn't have very high hopes for him. The supporting cast was equally as good. We saw a preview performance of the show and boy was it in preview shape. Lines were dropped and stumbled upon with regularity. I swear at one point Ms. Lansbury said "there's no moon out tonight and there's a moon, er... mist rising above the water." Uh oh! Also, there was a whole scene towards the end where I was slightly uncomfortable that the actresses didn't quite know where they were and they sort of muddled through the scene. Weird for professionals. I'm sure this line issue will be solved before the actual opening and it didn't detract from the show anyway.

On a side note, it was completely freezing the night we saw the show. Everyone should know that the Shubert Theater is absolutely freezing in the winter. I swear I could cut glass with my nipples as the north wind was blowing right on the audience.

Governor Jindal a/k/a douche bag

2009-02-25T12:46:00.003-05:00

What the fuck was with this colossal ass-wipe "rebutting" President Obama's speech last night? Is this fuck wad aware that in order to offer a rebuttal to the speech, one would have to listen to it? Say buh-bye to your political career! Just because you're a minority doesn't mean you're the Republican answer to Obama. Obama is intelligent!

douche bag!

SHREK - the musical

2009-02-25T12:07:00.003-05:00

Last Saturday Mr. Adam & I went to see the Dreamworks Broadway production of Shrek the Musical (thanks Michael).

So here it is in a nutshell. The show is good for kids under 10. Yup, I can't really say much more. It was adorable to see little boys & girls standing up whenever Shrek walked on stage. They really were mesmerized by the show. But the show itself spent SO much money on talent, costumes (which should win a Tony Award), set and stage - that they forgot to write good songs. Really, the songs are, at times, unbearable. I would say the first 2-3 songs of the show can be shortened or cut. And every ballad that Shrek sings in Act II must be cut. Too much and it's not carrying the story. The ticket for a show like this is around $120 per seat. How in God's name can people spend that kind of money for a children's show? As I said the cast was stunningly talented, but no amount of acting and/or vocal prowess can make this horrible score sing.

If you want a nice night out at a new show - go see Billy Elliot, and tell them ryan charisma sent you!

The Story Of My Life

2009-02-06T12:39:00.004-05:00

My friend Michael took me to see The Story Of My Life last night. It was good/mediocre. Let me 'splain...

This show begins with a friend writing the eulogy of his long time friend. I had no idea this was the premise of this musical. Yes, I wrote musical. Still having fresh wounds from my friend Dennis' death and having been the person Dennis asked to write his eulogy; this show struck a raw nerve for me. I was struck down with all of the paralles of this story compared to my own. It wasn't my story, but yet...it was. (sigh)

This two man show was superbly acted. Wonderfully directed and orchestrated. The set was stellar. I always enjoy those "less is more" sets anyway and the fact that everything even props were painted beige only - gave the show a great look. The show however, was only OK. Really. Sure some of the numbers really worked... "some". The show followed the new 90 minute / no intermission format that so many new shows seem to have taken. Usually I love it. But for a 90 minute show, at times I thought we were going on 3 hours. The music is so average really. Some songs just drag.

Should you see this show? ONLY if you've seen so many other Broadway shows. This show is defenitley a 2nd tier show that would never please people in the city to see shows like "Wicked" or "Billy Elliot". This is not one of those. So much awesome work went into this production, sadly the score needs work.

I'm a Super Hero now!

2009-02-06T12:33:00.002-05:00

It's a New Day!

2009-01-21T11:44:00.006-05:00

No. 44 welcome. I've waited for a new president since Bill Clinton stepped down. I'm glad you're here. Let's begin:

HOPE

I've got big plans for our country. And I'm 'hoping' that Obama doesn't let me down. Can he? Yes he can. Will he? I don't know, only time will tell that. Let's start at the beginning. Obama's victory back in November made me so very happy. Of course, I admit I voted Obama. It was a no brainer. I was thrilled that he won the election. I was uplifted by his victory speech, an inspiring speech that made me proud to be an American at this specific crossroads of our country. The following day I went into work. Work, the place where any Obama celebration is banned. I secretly smiled and did happy dances in the copy room when no one was looking. That is until Proposition H8 passed in California blowing the happy wind right out of my sails. Apparently "Yes we can" - except the gays. (sigh)

HOPE

So the holidays come and go. As did a medical issue which could have been very serious, but wasn't. As all horrible possibilities go, once I found out everything was OK, life just simply moves on. No big band shouting that "ryan charisma is healthy" - just business as usual. Thank God. Then comes the inauguration. Douche bag Rick Warren was chosen to pray at the Government ceremony. Why? WTF? Obama, did you use me? Am I that easily expendable that you would cater to this motherfucker and piss all over the people who supported you? This, as far as I'm concerned, was the first 'taint' of our new era in government. I, once again, felt left out. I had to either make peace with his selection or declare Obama a mistake before he was even sworn in. In my own best interests I decided that if this was the ONLY bone he threw to the religious nut bags, I could live with it, while never forgetting that he fucked us once already. I moved on, and hoped for the best. I hoped because that's all I have left politically. I have been waiting for this for a long, LONG time. My boss, of course, still having a "no happiness regarding Obama" rule, not only made the entire office work on inauguration day, but on the previous day (MLK holiday) as well. So beaten and down, I go to work with my newly confirmed healthy body angry. Angry that I'm the only person who has to work on MLK day. Angry that I have to sneak happiness about our new president. But most of all, angry that I'm going to miss the historical swearing in of Barack Obama live. So what, right? I'm an adult and I move on. I wake up on inauguration day excited. Today is the rest of our country's life. Everything changes today. Will the new president put the religious fundamentalists in their place? God I hope so. Will he declare that proposition H8 is wrong and the people who supported it are not his kind of people? God I hope so. Will he chastise the health & drug companies for bleeding American of their money for so long? God I hope so. Would he basically 'bitch slap' the haters and greedy people into reality? I won't know because I have to go to my place of employment where Obama is banned. Mind you, it's not a written rule that Obama is banned, it's understood. Our whole office knows, just don't talk about him and/or politics. So we don't. I sat listening to the swearing in on Internet radio. I was thrilled to hear him sworn in. And as far as screwing up the oath. So what? I don't think that amounts to a hill of beans. But now, now I was going to hear MY new president speak. His first speech as President of the United States. His speech failed me. Not a bad speech, but certainly not inspiring or motivating. I know he didn't write it on the bus on his way to school, but that's how it sounded to me. It wasn't a bad speech, but not a good speech either , it was just a speech. Obama had set the bar so high for himself that he failed me with his speech. I was let down. Where's the bitch slap to the religious kooks? Where's the mention of gays being treated unfairly? Where's the inspiration he charged into his past three speeches? It was a speech whose talking points I totally agreed with, but it didn't charge me up. I wasn't inspired. I wasn't impressed. As a matter of fact he could have had his daughter Sasha read it and it would have had the same effect. Good points, no passion.

HOPE

So within minutes of Obama's swearing in the White house web site updated with Obama's plans for the lgbt community. I found the website more inspiring than Obama's Inaugural speech. Please Obama, give me back my hope. I'm tired of hearing that this will not be fixed in one year. We were told that when 9/11 happened, and here we are 8 years later. So now we're hearing it again. I don't want to wait a LONG time. In fact, I'm not some 20 yo who can wait a long time. Life is short and my rights shouldn't be behind the economy & wars. I didn't break any of it. I made sure my life isn't paid for with credit cards. I go to work everyday and have an excellent work record. I live a very green life to help save our planet. I never supported the war and look forward to it ending. All I have left is hope Mr. Obama. Hope in you. Hope in your administration. And hope that the rest of America wakes up and does the right thing. I'm saddened. Yesterday didn't brighten my day the way I expected or wanted. It was, due to my workplace, just another day with just another speech. But I won't give up hope, as I said...it's all I got.

HOPE

Billy Elliot THE MUSICAL

2009-01-14T12:30:00.003-05:00

I LOVED IT! Last night Evan, Jeffrey, Mr. Adam & I went to go see Billy Elliot on Broadway. This show was really good. The dancing was stupendous. The 3 hour show was so well directed & acted. How can anyone not love this feel good show? I don't know. This is a must see for everyone. The cast is huge. Broadway has cast 3 different Billys for the show. Our Billy was played by David Alvarez. He was great. Stellar performance for a kid.

The show is very emotional at times dealing with life topics. Wants, desires, jobs, love & death. I was misty. Yes, my icy heart melted slightly, but I'm back and here to tell you. Go see this show. Specifically the dream ballet when Billy dances with himself as an adult. I was Billy. I related to Billy. I wanted to soar and fly from my problems into beautiful world constructed just for me. This show is good, this show will win awards, this show will play for a long while.

"ryan charisma are you going to purchase the CD?" Well, I already have it actually and no I wouldn't. The show isn't anything I would play just to hear. The music really belongs in the show. It's really part of the show and has very little toe tapping, sing along numbers.

GO SEE THIS NOW!

DOUBT

2009-01-13T16:10:00.003-05:00

Last Sunday Evan, Jeffrey, Mr. Adam & I went to go see the movie Doubt. I know, I know, you're thinking "ryan charisma, didn't you see that play on Broadway?" Well, yes and Mr. Adam & I loved it. So off we went to see the movie. Meryl Street was phenomenal in this movie. She was everything I remember the nuns to be. Not so much evil, as fun hating. Regardless the movie was adapted for the screen and directed by the playwright. I can definitely imagine Ms. Streep being nominated for her performance this year. It was that profound.

My only issue with the movie version of this show is that when I left the Broadway theater after the play, I didn't know what the truth was. And I didn't think one argument was stronger than the other. In the movie version however, I feel that the priest was given more. You sided with him a little bit. Perhaps it's because you got to see the "other" characters in the show? I don't know, but I didn't have that "what really happened?" feeling after the film. But Streep is SO good, you should see this film if only for her, but I promise, you'll like the whole movie none-the-less.

MILK

2009-01-06T15:02:00.005-05:00

Wow. That's all. Wow. This movie, and we all know the ending, was great. A must see for gays, and a bigger must see for non-gays.

"My name is Harvey Milk and I'm here to recruit you..." What a service this man did. I really, really liked this movie. Were the 'sexy 70's' whitewashed? Sure, to a degree, but the message in the movie is loud and clear. VISIBILITY. Did you read that? VISIBILITY. I was moved to tears several times in this movie, and none of them have to do with Harvey Milk's demise. It was great to see functioning, flourishing gay couples, who loved openly and honestly through poverty, gay ghettos, bathhouses, drugs, bashings & legislative hate. And none of these things stopped these relationships from being.

"No more pot & bathhouses for me and my honey..." Harvey Milk stopped his and his boyfriends average gay Joe life to run for office. I had no idea he lost his first few runs at office. This man Milk, did what I always felt I should have/could have done. He won an office and began making a difference in his own people's life. Today one could never admit that he was a pot smoking, sex club attending, porn reading gay. Could I admit that today? Of course not, I'm not into porn really. But seriously, in today's day and age, the Christian Reich would have a field day digging up dirt on a man like Milk. A good hearted man like Milk.

Sean Penn. There I wrote it right there. Sean Penn was fascinating to watch. His performance was stellar. He had the gay nuances down pat, his speech pattern was totally changed. I'm so proud of his portrayal of a gay man. Usually I hate when straights get the good gay roles and the real gays get to play the nut jobs, zany best friends or psychos. But Sean Penn ruled. I honestly can't think of anyone else who could have played this role. I don't know if Sean will win an Academy Award for this, but damn - he sure should be nominated.

I really liked this movie and urge all of you to see it. And on the big screen. The movie speaks to not only the gay community, but the the straight community as well. A MUST see movie.

Watch & learn kids, watch and learn...

The 39 Steps

2008-12-29T11:29:00.003-05:00

Yesterday I took Mr. Adam to see "The 39 Steps". I got the tickets for our 7 year anniversary this past December 25th (yes, our anniversary is on Christmas Day). I wanted to see this show before it closed next week as it was nominated for so many awards. Rumor has it, that it will open in a smaller Broadway house in a few weeks. It should, it's that good.

The show is a spoof on Alfred Hitchcock films. It's a 4 man show where 3 of the 4 actors play multiple charecters. I loved it. Sadly, both Mr. Adam & I were so exhausted from our holiday "fun" that we found it very difficult to stay awake for the entire show. However, that's what happens when you're like me (on the "other" side of 29yo).

"Should I see the show in the new theater ryan charisma?" Yes, it's really fun. It's well acted and if you have the luck to see the original cast, even better! kisses!

Happy Christmas!

2008-12-24T10:47:00.001-05:00

Oh Tannenbaum 08

2008-12-18T16:26:00.004-05:00

This year Mr. Adam & I have our first Christmas Tree together. Not only is it our first Christmas Tree, but it's also Mr. Adam's first Christmas Tree ever. He insisted we get a real tree. I voted fake, I lost. Our tree is fabulous and beautiful. But I'm the one who did the lights, garland, star and water it everyday. hmmm. It seems like my vote should have counted more. Oh and the best part, our vacuum cleaner died the same weekend we put this up. AWESOME! Well, it's still gorgeous while it's alive.

Boy Culture

2008-12-05T15:57:00.001-05:00

I've finished another book. This book (thank you Michael) Boy Culture was written by Matthew Rettenmund. I'm not sure what the purpose of this book was. It's about a gay prostitute (with a heart of gold) who isn't a drug addict, is worried about STD's, has a fabulous apartment that he's redecorated twice, and has not friends. Aside from the completely unrealistic story, I had fun reading this 'fluffy' book. And this book is nothing but fluff. Let me repeat that, this book is nothing but fluff. It even has a few chapters that are basically soft porn.

I will say that Boy Culture does a good job portraying gay life in Chicago. Or just gay life in general, but really. What male prostitute takes in two roommates - just because. That's right...none. I would totally recommend this book if you were laying on a beach with a very short attention span. But if you're looking for literature. Keep looking. Fluffy.

AUSTRALIA

2008-12-02T15:58:00.002-05:00

Last Friday Sam, Steven, Mr. Adam & I went too see Australia. Man this movie was good. "ryan charisma, is the movie really long?" Well technically yes it is about 3 hours long. But you don't feel it.

How was Nicole Kidman? Beautiful. Hugh Jackman? Even beautifuler. You should really see this gem on the big screen. Of course I'm sure you already know this was directed by Baz Luhrmann of Moulon Rouge fame. "ryan charisma what's so great about Australia?" Well, after watching this movie, I would have to say ... not so much. The dishonesty, the treachery & the blatant disregard for human beings, one would think we were talking about the Christanists here in America. Should you see this film? ABSO-fucking-LUTELY! And on the big screen!

BEYONCÉ or FOSSE

2008-11-26T12:41:00.000-05:00

World War Z

2008-11-25T15:39:00.002-05:00

I've read another book. I chose World War Z as my Halloween "scary" read. Well, for the second year in a row, I chose badly. This book wasn't scary really. The author, Max Brooks did an interesting job with this book. He wrote it as a series of interviews 'after the fact'. The war has ended, millions of people dead, millions more have been re-animated into Zombies. The post interviews range from typically families to military personnel. The entire world was affected by the attack of the Zombies. Countries failed by reacting to the attacks with military force. And of course, the more men they lost, the more men the Zombies got. You can't kill the dead. Hell, I figured that out. I would think someone who enjoys historical war books would like this piece of fiction. It really is almost believable. I just don't feel I got the scary bang for my buck. "Should I read this ryan charisma?" Well honestly, if war & history are your thing, sure. But otherwise, this book is only mediocre.

ART

2008-11-14T11:56:00.006-05:00

Hey folks, an artistical friend of mine sent me three of his latest pieces that were shown in an art show recently. Check them out and leave your comments, if you have any. I'll leave the artist as anonymous so you can feel free to leave whatever your gut reaction to the art is. I always believed that the gut reaction to art is the most honest. Please don't confuse honestly with cruel.

#1 The Temptress

#2 Voodoo Baby

#3 The Unexpected

What 'cha think?

Politicalishness (protest proposition H8)

2008-11-13T15:03:00.007-05:00

Momma's mad and this time I did something about it. Last night Mr. Adam & I attended the Proposition 8 protest outside the NYC Church of Latter Day Saints (Mormons) or as I call them "Douche Nozzles". It was great to be a part of something big, something that is now rolling along with it's own steam. Shame on California, shame on the church, shame on the California black community that voted Obama in as well as bigotry. We got your number and it will come up. Just give us time.

I have to admit, the amount of people at at the protest was amazing. I wasn't but some of the other people I met were saying how surprised they were by how many young gays attended. Outrage is outrage young or old. It's like myself, now at my young age I'm considered devastatingly gorgeous, and I'm sure as I move on in years (as I approach 29) I'm sure my beauty won't fade as it will morph into something totally more spectacular. I want to post all my fabulous pictures but that would make my page take forever to load in.

If I can share one more piece of information with everyone. Go to this site. Check out where your protest for the national day of protest for proposition H8 is. It's this Saturday. Be there and support your gays. See you at the protest!

NO MORE MR. NICE GAY!

I Voted a/k/a BITCHSLAP!

2008-11-04T10:06:00.006-05:00

I voted(ed). Yes I did. Mr. Adam & I got up at 5:45am (as usual for the gym) but instead headed out to vote. We were in line from 6am - 7am. It took one hour for both of us to cast our ballots for this election. And it was good.

"Who did you vote for ryan charisma?" Wow aren't all of you, as my mother would say, 'out of line'? Well, I voted for the Black, Arab, Muslim, Socialist Terrorist. Yes I did. Take that you douche bag Republicans! BITCHSLAP! Even if my candidate loses, I want my voice heard. I demand to be heard. And my vote IS my voice. Listen ass wipe Christian fanatics who are their own special form of terrorist. I AM DONE WITH YOU! BITCHSLAP! Feel that wrath coming down on you and your hate? Feel that bitch slap? Good, I hope it leaves a mark.

By these record numbers of votes, I feel Obama will win this election and if he wins both the electorate & the popular vote: There will be no stopping him.

BITCHSLAP! Ah that feels good.

The B-52's LIVE

2008-11-03T12:59:00.003-05:00

Last Saturday night, Sam, Michael & I went to see the B-52's & Hercules & Love Affair at Hammerstein's Ballroom here in NYC. What a great time! I adore Hercules & Love Affair, always have, but sadly Anthony wasn't there to sing with the band. The band kicked ass anyway, I must admit. Then the B-52's went on. They rocked the party! What a great time! The ticket price was cheap and the fun was bountiful.

I must admit, that we drank allot. It's Sam's fault, he makes us drink. After all, I was brought up with proper Christian values. Hooray for the LOVE SHACK BABY!

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-30T17:10:00.001-04:00

Look What I Made (2):

2008-10-30T12:35:00.004-04:00

Max Payne

2008-10-29T13:00:00.004-04:00

Hey peoples, last Sunday Michael, Mr. Adam & I went to see the new Max Payne movie. I have the xbox game, so I knew what the movie would be like. And I do like me some Mark Wahlberg, but I have to say...this movie was mediocre...at best. Sure the action shots were entertaining. Sure there was some sort of sci-fi Nordic demon/angels of war. And sure there was drugs. But honestly, it was a big budget TV show.

Wait till it's on HBO, don't even get the DVD.

Look What I Made:

2008-10-28T10:47:00.002-04:00

One Year

2008-10-27T10:32:00.000-04:00

...and Angus was watching

2008-10-21T14:47:00.007-04:00

This past Friday, there was an alignment of stars, so to speak. A convergence of talent, sweat and dedication sweetened with support and love. "What are you talking about ryan charisma?" Hold on, I'm milking the moment...

OK, great - I made my 'phili-something' point. Anyway, a group of friends from my undergrad years in the university theater company (SMUTCo) gathered here in NYC. We were all here to support our friends Gail & Ernie with the musical they've been writing, re-writing & writing again called Monsters. They had a staged reading with Ms. Andrea McCartle (original Annie) singing the lead character. This reading was to wrangle up some financial backing and producers for their musical. I'm not going to review the show as I only review full productions. I don't think reviewing a work in progress is fair. So I'll say this, the cast was one of the strongest casts I've seen out of all the incarnations I've seen of this show. And I believe I've seen them all over the years.

It was so great to see my friends that I never see. "Why ryan charisma?" Well, because life takes people and tosses them across states and oceans. It gives us families and basic life to deal with. It takes it's toll on people. So now, although our friendships still seem to be as strong as ever, we've all moved along the paths that make staying close difficult if not impossible. My biggest wish, was that they stayed longer. One night in NYC is not long enough.

So in turn, our mentor Angus Baily, who was the director of our theater company, was alive again watching his people pull it together once more. His spirit lived on in the script, in the support, in the arguing and most of all in the performance of Monsters.

Here's to you Angus, and the wonderful people you brought together and taught.

GYPSY

2008-10-21T11:40:00.003-04:00

Saw it! Now listen childruns, I know I swore I'd never see this show again. I know the rumors that Patti plays Momma Rose crazed. But my friend Michael got tickets for Gail, Patti, Sam & myself to see this show last Wednesday night. The show fucking rocked! Oooops! I cusseded.

"Here she is boys!" Patti LuPone was stellar in this performance. Was she crazed? Yes, she was slightly, but I think it gave a whole new level her character. Boyd Gains brought a whole level to the thankless role of Herbie. I truly thought this show would drag on for 12 hours. It did not. It was done wonderfully. I see why this show won so many Tony Awards. I'm glad I saw it.

"ryan charisma, what was your favorite part of the show?" Well, I'm going to have to say .... the cow. And there you have it. This show was great, see it before Patti is out and it closes. Now I can go back to never needing to see this show ever again. It's so long.

Sticky & Sweet Tour - MADONNA

2008-10-15T09:54:00.007-04:00

I LOVE MADONNA! Last Tuesday I took Mr. Adam to see Madonna's Sticky & Sweet Tour. We joined Evan & Jeffrey before the show for drinkies as Mr. Adam & I were on our stay-cation. We arrived for the 8pm show at 8:30pm and Madonna started promptly at 9:20pm. I've learned she doesn't begin at the ticket time.

First off I have to say, Madonna's multi-media effects were incredible. They always are. Her theme of sticky & sweet lasted for the first two songs then the show became a free flow of her new and old tunes. I have to say this, and it pains me to to even write it "This was not one of her best tours." There I said it. Her last two tours were superior to this one. First, Madonna rocked out a few too many songs. She's been known to reinterpret her 80's hits before and in this case her new version of Borderline was awesome. But then again, instead of only rocking out 2-3 songs, she did more like 6-7. Her costumes were black. That's all. If she had on any color is was a necklace or a vest/jacket type of thing. Bad costumes.

Madonna, during a sing along to "I love New York" ripped into Sara Palin singing "Palin get off of my street, get off of my street! If Palin makes it to Washington, I'll kick her ass!" God I love Madonna.

Good show, if you've never seen Madonna, you should go you won't be disappointed. If you have seen Madonna, don't go with expectations of her last two tours. It won't compare.

I'm still glad I went, I would have never forgiven myself if I missed the show.

Eagle Eye IMAX

2008-10-14T12:01:00.002-04:00

Good day my petite cupcakes! Last week (Monday) I took Mr. Adam to go see Eagle Eye on the Imax here in NYC. What an exciting movie to watch. I'm gonna go out on a limb here and say the story is old hat. We've seen the whole 'computers taking over the world' thing many times. This is just a newer version of that theme. But the special effects are awesome. The action sequences are thrilling, and breath taking. Should I see this ryan charisma? Well, I would say both yes & no. If you have an Imax theater - yes go. If not, wait for the DVD. As I said - the story has been done many times.

STAY-CATION

2008-10-14T11:52:00.004-04:00

Hey all! I'm back. Mr. Adam & I took last week off. We decided not to go anywhere and to do what I've longed to do for quite some time. Stay home and actually rest. God I loved it. Usually with vacations, I need another just to rest. I didn't want to spend my days out of work traveling and burning the candle at both ends. I just couldn't do it. We had so many obligations last week, both personally and socially that we decided that it would be best to take the whole week off and get in some personal/couple time too. Did financed have anything to do with it ryan charisma? No, although I will admit that when Mr. Adam and I discuss where we would like to go - we both are at a loss. I've traveled allot as has Mr. Adam. Leaving the country is pretty much out until the dollar is stronger and the United States isn't so hated. Beyond that, I don't really know where I would want to go. Nothing excites me right now. Am I jaded? Probably. My next want/wish is to cancel Christmas for just one year. Really, just pretend it's not happening. No gifts, no decorations & no stress. I know, I'm a dreamer. Anyway, I'm back and now playing catch up!

[title of show]

2008-10-01T15:15:00.003-04:00

Last night, Michael took Sam, Mr. Adam & I to see [title of show]. From the very first song, I loved this show. It's a show about writing a show about writing a show. Follow? Of course, I'm SO grateful I was lucky enough to see the original cast as I'm sure once the rights are open to the public there will be plenty of knock off productions.

The show stars the two writers (Jeff Bowen & Hunter Bell) of the musical and two of their friends (Heidi Blickenstaff & Susan Blackwell); oh and a piano player. Yes, low budget musical! Call Samuel French now! [title of show] follows the new 90 minute/ no intermission format that Broadway seems to have embraced in the past few years. The set is basically 4 chairs in a faux NYC apt. with the piano player upstage left in the apartment. Costumes were simple everyday clothes. I LOVED IT. How much do you love it ryan charisma? Well, so much that I have it on my iPod already. You heard me, within 12 hours, I've loaded it in. Have you?

ryan charisma, should I see it? YES! YES! YES! Especially if you like shows that have Broadway jokes and references, but sadly, you must see it before October 12, 2008. That's when the show is scheduled to close due to this economy. Sad really. Real art just doesn't sell tickets. I'm so glad I saw it. You will be too!

RANT: An Oral Biography of Buster Casey

2008-09-30T16:31:00.003-04:00

Well, I'm back and I've read another book by my favorite author Chuck Palahniuk. This book RANT was good, honestly not my favorite book by this author. But still twisted in the ways that only Mr. Palahniuk can spin. He's brilliant I tell you.

The story is literally a series of interviews with the people in Buster Casey's life. So reading it is a little strange. The story involves time travel, car crashing as a pastime, seeking out rabies infection and killing your ancestors. There's a combination for you.

Overall, I would have to say that this book was not my favorite of Mr. Palahniuk's. Perhaps I feel this way because I could really care less about cars and spider bites. But hey that's me.

Carry on!

Palin - Put Up, or Shut Up

2008-09-24T09:47:00.001-04:00