tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10806471570438202522024-03-14T00:57:17.862-07:00Dinner and a MovieThe Ultimate Patron's thoughts and views on Various Foods and Entertainment in the NorthwestThee Ultimate Patronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04267208779673543787noreply@blogger.comBlogger71125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080647157043820252.post-31430490788358159502015-11-28T13:14:00.001-08:002015-11-29T00:35:25.340-08:00A NEW Nutcracker - Reimagined, Reinvented and Incredibly Special<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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George Balanchine's<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">THE NUTCRACKER</span><br />
Artistic Director: Peter Boal<br />
Design: Ian Falconer<br />
November 27 - December 28th<br />
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<b>Tradition:</b><i><b> </b></i><br />
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<span class="dbox-pg"><i><span class="oneClick-link oneClick-available">noun</span></i></span><span class="def-number"><span class="oneClick-link"><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span>1.</span></span><span class="oneClick-link">the</span> <span class="oneClick-link oneClick-available">handing</span> <span class="oneClick-link oneClick-available">down</span> <span class="oneClick-link">of</span> <span class="oneClick-link">statements,</span> <span class="oneClick-link">beliefs,</span> <span class="oneClick-link">legends,</span> <span class="oneClick-link">customs,</span> <span class="oneClick-link oneClick-available">information,</span> <span class="oneClick-link oneClick-available">etc.,</span> <span class="oneClick-link">from</span> <span class="oneClick-link oneClick-available">generation</span> <span class="oneClick-link">to</span> <span class="oneClick-link">generation,</span> <span class="oneClick-link">especially</span> <span class="oneClick-link">by</span> <span class="oneClick-link">word</span> <span class="oneClick-link">of</span> <span class="oneClick-link">mouth</span> <span class="oneClick-link">or</span> <span class="oneClick-link">by</span> <span class="oneClick-link oneClick-available">practice:</span><i><b> </b></i><i><b><span class="oneClick-link">a</span> <span class="oneClick-link">story</span> <span class="oneClick-link">that</span> <span class="oneClick-link">has</span> <span class="oneClick-link">come</span> <span class="oneClick-link">down</span> <span class="oneClick-link">to</span> <span class="oneClick-link">us</span> <span class="oneClick-link">by</span> <span class="oneClick-link">popular</span> </b></i>tradition.<br />
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<span class="dbox-example"><span class="oneClick-link">When Artistic Director Peter Boal announced last year that the ballet would be retiring the Stowell/Sendak Nutcracker that had run 31 years and had become a Christmas tradition in many northwest households, it was met with mixed reaction. Some excited for change, some sad to see the special production go, and some angry to a level that was surprisingly emotional. Either way it caused a ruckus and starting much speculation as to what was to come. The critics: How can it be NEW if other ballets use this version? We will no longer have something special to PNB. Why are we trying to COPY the NYC Ballet? This version is BORING. </span></span><br />
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<span class="dbox-example"><span class="oneClick-link">As last night's premier approached, the marketing began. Photos, commercials, news articles. The naysayers still snarky but with that inquisitive look, like someone that wants details but doesn't want to admit they want details. Director Peter Boal doing an interview jokingly saying if the audiences didn't love it he had a one way ticket to Kansas. I cannot imagine how stressful the weeks leading up to the premier were for him. The risk that he took was ENORMOUS. <i><b>T.S. Eliot said: "Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go." </b></i>If we don't take risks we don't create opportunities to grow. As a born and raised Seattle native, I have seen this city grow and evolve over the last 40+ years. Seattle has a handful of tourist and artistic destinations and as the city progresses, so must these attractions. This was what Pacific Northwest Ballet needed to be part of Seattle's unique and eclectic artistic skyline.</span></span></div>
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<span class="dbox-example"><span class="oneClick-link">The week before I found myself nervous and restless in regards to the premier. I have zero to do with the production but was still apprehensively anticipating the big reveal like I was someone that was deeply involved emotionally. I see why there were so many visceral reactions. The Nutcracker connects with so many of us. All I could think about while preparing and serving Thanksgiving dinner for my daughter and several other of the Professional Division dancers is, I must pass them my motherly sustenance and energy to make the next night, opening night, perfect.</span></span><br />
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<span class="dbox-example">The lobby was bustling with wonder and excitement. I strolled through the length of the 1st and 2nd floors with my ears open to what the patrons were discussing - these were my favorite quotes of the evening:</span></div>
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<b><i>"So IS there a Peacock?" </i></b></div>
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<b><i>"I love that this ballet is about sweets and there is less racial undertones" </i></b><span class="dbox-example">(I laughed and gave her a high five as I walked past)</span><b><i><span class="dbox-example"><span class="oneClick-link"></span></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i>"Mom is there still a princess?" </i></b></div>
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<b><i>"Does the tree still grow?"</i></b></div>
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<b><i>"I wonder if Olivia the Pig will make an appearance?"</i></b></div>
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"<i style="font-weight: bold;">Wait is that Drum from Steel Magnolias!?"</i> (Tom Skerritt)</div>
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<span class="dbox-example"><span class="oneClick-link">I had picked the perfect seat. Butterflies in my stomach and I wasn't even dancing or part of the crew. Everyone in that audience was witnessing what people 31 years before witnessed. The start of a tradition. History and the beginning of a magical production.</span></span></div>
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<span class="dbox-example"><span class="oneClick-link">The prologue began and as the gorgeous PNB Orchestra played the familiar Tchaikovsky intro - we were introduced to an opening film, that took us from the snowflakes, down traveling through the snow capped trees and hillside, through the quiet neighborhood of homes, and to the doorway of the Stahlbaum family. It was done as if we were all flying through and traveling in an open aired bi plane. Reminiscent of something you would see at IMAX but with the animation of Polar Express. </span></span></div>
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<span class="dbox-example"><span class="oneClick-link">It ends with the children, Clara and Fritz - sleeping at the doorway of the great hall, and then becomes the exact picture on stage live. The walls lined with photos and decor fit for an animated Vogue shot, and transparently showing us what awaited them on the other side. It was a new and exciting way to prepare you for what was to come.</span></span></div>
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<span class="dbox-example"><span class="oneClick-link">The party scene was stunning. The set of the Stahlbaum home was epic. SO many details. A true visual journey. I found myself trying to absorb everything. The glowing realistic fire in the fireplace. </span></span><br />
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<span class="dbox-example"><span class="oneClick-link">The architecture of the room from the windows to the floors. The careful placement of the red and white stripes - from the stockings, to the chair covers, of course small repetitious reminders of the MAIN stripes which were Clara's whimsically sweet striped dress and her Uncle Drosselmeier's cloak lining. Was a wonderful ribbon of playful consistency. </span></span><br />
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ALL of the costumes in this scene were lush and exquisite, with patterns and fabrics that seemed to jump off the stage. The costume department and designer Ian Falconer, should be given a standing ovation of their own. It was awe inspiring. The growing tree, the HUGE adorable mice and the cute but stoic soldiers, all made for an entertaining portion with lots of audience giggles. The most notably being the Mouse King who had MULTIPLE heads and crowns. It was unexpectedly awesome and I found myself amazed at the wondrous creation of it.</span></span></div>
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<span class="dbox-example"><span class="oneClick-link">The most visually magnificent scene of the entire ballet was the Snow scene. Ushered in by Princess Clara on her gliding bed, and her little prince (who was disguised as the Nutcracker and had an EPIC costume change! Hint: Its JUST like the movie and the audience erupted with cheers) the scene change became the most breathtaking and impressive forest I had ever seen. </span></span></div>
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The incredible depth of the trees and the snow. THE SNOW. Balanchine's choreography for the impressive Snowflake dancers is elaborate, arduous and electric. I only know this as a ballet-familiar person because the company dancers that performed looked light as air and effortless as they danced in a moderate blizzard of snow. Adorning the entire scene was a spectacular glass Winter Star created by Dale Chihuly, adding an extravagant level of beauty to an already dazzling Snow Scene.</span></span></div>
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<span class="dbox-example"><span class="oneClick-link">Act 2 was the Land of the Sweets. The Angels were perfect. Gliding over the stage as if on wheels, they heralded in the newly-promoted Sugar Plum Fairy, danced by the beautiful Liz Murphy (shown in the top photo). The entire Land of the Sweets was overwhelmingly fun, with gigantic tall tables of cakes and confections, lace and candy canes framing the entire thing into a perfect picture of edible beauty. </span></span></div>
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<span class="dbox-example"><span class="oneClick-link">Hot Chocolate dancers were spicy and quick and their costumes were intricate and flashy, with gorgeous head pieces that looked like pieces of actual chocolate. The controversial Coffee. Many people sad with the departure of their beloved Peacock, so I heard whispers and wonders when this music began. Corps member Elle Macy stunned with the flexibility and allure to make this slinky and contortion-like choreography come to life. Boal and Falconer gave their nod to the Peacock with a respectful and beautiful costume that donned long ornate peacock feathers. Tea was fun and enticed laughter from the crowd. Matt Renko as the man in the box - seemed to fly as he jumped with an agility I hadn't seen from him before. The three dancers together produced smiles across every seat that I could see. </span></span><br />
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Soloist Ben Griffiths was flawless as lead Candy Cane. Lots of WOWs and hollers from the audience, as its arguably the most iconic of all of the Nutcracker music. Marzipan was lead splendidly by Soloist Leta Biasucci. The tutus were like beautiful paper cut lace snowflakes, intricate and delicate. </span></span></div>
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<span class="dbox-example"><span class="oneClick-link">They say big hair, a big dress and flawless lashes will steal the show, and well they were right. Soloist Josh Grant had the audience in tears with his grandiose and comical portrayal of the infamous Mother Ginger, the woman with all of her kids in her skirt. Her personality was bigger than her skirt as she delighted in her dancing children and her own reflection. Closing out the sweets was the enchanting Dew Drop fairy danced by Principal Laura Tisserand, and supported by her garden of Dancing Flowers. The costumes were verdant and flower-like with beautiful petals that seemed to move perfectly as they danced. </span></span></div>
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<span class="dbox-example"><span class="oneClick-link">The finale came to a close with the Sugar Plum and her Cavalier - danced by the naturally born Prince, Jerome Tisserand, and then concluded with the entire Land of Sweets gathering to bid a farewell to Clara and her Prince, and as they walked off the stage, many of us thought that was it. UNTIL. There was a surprise. Wait for it. A Sleigh. With reindeer. That FLEW. You could not see any wires or tracks from the audience. Visually, they were flying home on a reindeer guided sleigh. No big deal, only it was a big deal. It was an EPIC ending to a gorgeous feast of splendor that exceeded my already high expectations. The audience roared, standing ovation for the first night of a brilliant new tradition. </span></span></div>
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<span class="dbox-example"><span class="oneClick-link">For those that said this version was not going to be "special" or "unique" or said it would be a "copy" or "boring", I assure you it is truly nowhere near boring or a copy. I am pleased to inform you that Pacific Northwest Ballets new Nutcracker is both Special in Unique, beyond what you imagined it would be. </span></span><span class="dbox-example"><span class="oneClick-link"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="dbox-example"><span class="oneClick-link">Tickets are going quickly. Get them while you can and go experience the magic and be part of this extraordinary new tradition. Congrats to everyone involved in making a new piece of history. </span></span></div>
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Thee Ultimate Patronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04267208779673543787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080647157043820252.post-24467985145115076922015-11-28T09:18:00.000-08:002015-11-28T09:18:40.197-08:00Wanted: The perfect Pub burgerRecently I made a made a Facebook post wanting the perfect "pub" burger. A pub burger is somewhere between a fast food burger and a fancy burger. No bells and whistles of a fancy burger, but a hand made patty, toasted bun and fresh grease that fast food doesnt have. My FB friends did not disappoint. Within an hour I had a list of place to try. We opted to go to Stars Brass Lounge in Georgetown. It was PERFECT. There obviously needs to be a Yelp page with the cities best pub burgers listed.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitNXCzg3GuF7GCD0BK3DVRVpfOKShyphenhyphenfyz-Ykt7l83bXLoELVC3jde-EZ4hMu9sNt1lmIbChNcd7YzBcw5g-_nYxmgdii6WBF5s3v3YX935qamVZavBHJV1mIcx68gUCUdPeco3CBa0iLvY/s640/blogger-image--65646494.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitNXCzg3GuF7GCD0BK3DVRVpfOKShyphenhyphenfyz-Ykt7l83bXLoELVC3jde-EZ4hMu9sNt1lmIbChNcd7YzBcw5g-_nYxmgdii6WBF5s3v3YX935qamVZavBHJV1mIcx68gUCUdPeco3CBa0iLvY/s640/blogger-image--65646494.jpg" /></a></div>
Thee Ultimate Patronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04267208779673543787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080647157043820252.post-27873416791815222682015-11-07T17:57:00.000-08:002015-11-08T08:45:38.263-08:00You MUST Emerge with PNB<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq6GYl69TSRVkxHEpe1HGKQqN23FVeg0N8Y9mBiz5jPx9UJorQSGNi5GjC9oR8wYgwJJCkvXhyX8kUNlVBJb9lxG23CTdmplPT8v1EkAGv64ViPguRBP-FmPQ7sM9NbdWh66H6h28G5Zzv/s1600/dyl3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq6GYl69TSRVkxHEpe1HGKQqN23FVeg0N8Y9mBiz5jPx9UJorQSGNi5GjC9oR8wYgwJJCkvXhyX8kUNlVBJb9lxG23CTdmplPT8v1EkAGv64ViPguRBP-FmPQ7sM9NbdWh66H6h28G5Zzv/s320/dyl3.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Emergence</span></b><br /><br /><b><i>Pacific Northwest Ballet</i></b><br /><br /><b>November 6-15</b><br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.pnb.org/" target="_blank">http://www.pnb.org</a> </b><br /><br />Artistic Director: Peter Boal<br /><br />Sum Stravinsky<br /><br />The Calling<br /><br />Signature<br /><br />Emergence<br /><br /><br /><br />Last night was the opening night of Pacific Northwest Ballet's mixed rep and my mind is still swimming in the magnificence of it all. Artistic Director Peter Boal has put together a FEAST for patrons with this rep. Each piece fantastic in its own way and building to the end with Emergence, the show will leave you in absolute awe and amazement. But I will get to that, lets start at the beginning...<br /><br /><b>SUM STRAVINSKY </b>choreographed by the newly retired PNB Soloist Kiyon Gaines. First off let me just say that there is SUCH an advantage to having a piece choreographed by a former member of the company he is working with. He knew who to put in what place perfectly. The music of Stravinsky, that as a band nerd always made me emotional, perfectly seasoned the dancers' quick movements. The piece was fast paced, precise and exciting. A lot of new faces in the corps so it was nice seeing a few of them really shine, most notably <i><b>Miles Pertl</b></i>. The 3 duets were the shining moments of this piece.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY8lST3xMPb7T6JIXxOSCPFisrQeoxyepkILZ_Kr3m60RfjqckH_3JR3Sc_sWNwcTCeXICqUt_8-3CKUPe_0pB5yhag4nKJ77P6kT97ZR4NEdlIXViqDVy3kO94oAK4WCRRpMVrQzShAIS/s1600/sum2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY8lST3xMPb7T6JIXxOSCPFisrQeoxyepkILZ_Kr3m60RfjqckH_3JR3Sc_sWNwcTCeXICqUt_8-3CKUPe_0pB5yhag4nKJ77P6kT97ZR4NEdlIXViqDVy3kO94oAK4WCRRpMVrQzShAIS/s320/sum2.jpg" width="251" /></a></div><br /><i><b>Angelica Generosa</b></i> was perky, quick and gorgeous and her partner<i><b> Ben Griffith</b></i>s balanced her nicely, being technically perfect and strong, a joy to watch. Then <i><b>Maria Chapman</b></i> - who it is SO nice to see back on that stage after having a baby - is clearly back with a vengeance. Her movements were gorgeous and fluid and her physical ability, paired with the always amazing and perfect partner <i><b>Karel Cruz</b></i>, they are one of my favorite duos. Finally my favorite pair of the evening was <i><b>Lesley Rausch</b></i> and her real life partner <i><b>Batkhurel Bold.</b></i> Lesley was FIERCE. The two of them, were sassy and the offstage chemistry shined through as authentic on the stage, which adds so much to the performance. Kiyon truly created a work of art that celebrated his peers' abilities and strengths.<br /><br /><br /><b>THE CALLING </b>choreographed by Jessica Lang. This was a premier for PNB and I had seen clips so I knew it would be emotional. It also made the cover of the rep program (above) so I knew it would be good.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlSBP0mjdHdJE_JFvi_yyV1-OgGhMTxKgEjpVFVQMw-MfCikrX-Qe6lOvw9jq6GYHwzqBH-JErEyZ3ccPgXRh1qPwEQT3BvYwssG5ppif9lxjqZeh8ceO8QOBXt-I7OYMnLRpjXsSfwzUz/s1600/Dyl2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlSBP0mjdHdJE_JFvi_yyV1-OgGhMTxKgEjpVFVQMw-MfCikrX-Qe6lOvw9jq6GYHwzqBH-JErEyZ3ccPgXRh1qPwEQT3BvYwssG5ppif9lxjqZeh8ceO8QOBXt-I7OYMnLRpjXsSfwzUz/s320/Dyl2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />New corps member <i><b>Dylan Wald</b></i> had the honor of performing opening night and it was magnificent. Every movement was tangible and intentional. Every muscle was clear and strong like a marble statue come to life on stage. The costume created such an amazing visual that coupled with the dancers level of amazing movement, was almost too much beauty to handle. Such an emotional piece and such a treat to have it at PNB and in the rep.<br /><br />Dylan Wald is truly a rising star and that was definitely his moment. <br /><br /><b>SIGNATURE </b>choreographed by corps dancer Price Suddarth. World Premiere. I didn't know what to expect. I had only seen a solo done by Price, which was amazing but its hard to tell the capacity of a choreographer from a solo. I was intrigued to say the least. If I had to come up with a phrase that described this piece it would be: "HOLY AMAZING PORT DE BRAS". <i><b> </b></i><br /><br /><i><b>The french literal definition of port de bras: "bearing of the arms"</b></i> If you can appreciate and love a good fierce port de bra like I do, this piece will complete you. So satisfying watching such big beautiful movements. The opening group section was so intense and overwhelming! I truly think lighting is so important and the LIGHTING for this piece truly set the mood.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmkm8XpoGzmEDR1PYuImEhA1oUsU3LmOZRg46kbvCswTrcyEvzTu0T7JFClH-SJRkHGJ1VBj8ZO1gGVrTXs63_nRJ30Au7UEY_XpXoyMHD9AcVpCl7C29pWwlC3t8wUTaWKHEDX9Pd6Aub/s1600/Price+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmkm8XpoGzmEDR1PYuImEhA1oUsU3LmOZRg46kbvCswTrcyEvzTu0T7JFClH-SJRkHGJ1VBj8ZO1gGVrTXs63_nRJ30Au7UEY_XpXoyMHD9AcVpCl7C29pWwlC3t8wUTaWKHEDX9Pd6Aub/s320/Price+1.jpg" width="251" /></a></div><br />Suddarth put together a gorgeous collection of movements that truly celebrated the body of each dancer. I do have to say my favorite moment - was fittingly called the "men's dance" I was told. Principle men;<i><b> Jerome Tisserand, Karel Cruz </b></i>and<i><b> Batkhurel Bold</b></i> - and corps men <i><b>Dylan Wald, Kyle Davis </b></i>and<i><b> Ezra Thompson</b></i> all in one place. So stunning. The visual it gave me will make you laugh. You know that movie, Heat with Robert De Niro, Al Pacino and Val Kilmer? How everyone was in awe that they were all in a movie together? That's how I felt watching Tisserand, Cruz and Bold on stage at the same time. 3 of the company's strongest dancers together in one place! It was truly a moment that was such a bonus for everyone! Price surprised me with this intense and gorgeous piece and I thought it was the perfect prelude for Emergence.<br /><br /><b>EMERGENCE.</b> Let me reiterate: <b>EMERGENCE.</b><br /><br /><b><br /></b><br /><b>"Force, trajectory, inertia, and recovery: dancing is a ride, a duet <br />between your instinct and imagination. To dance is to heighten your <br />experience of the present moment."</b><br /><br /><b> ~ Crystal Pite, choreographer of Emergence.</b><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF0VHOYgBj48hTRYSQPDVhDDL2u8Uirwc40hHV5Ei4fhilsveI1Lcf38bTnxnBpty3k1Z0dFsOWgh-PFz7pUu0sc2PIq5NsuaHvCfVIPUR7zyZvuSIk5zxUmZzsqc1I7z4dzen2W-bOfUC/s1600/2022157814-300x192.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF0VHOYgBj48hTRYSQPDVhDDL2u8Uirwc40hHV5Ei4fhilsveI1Lcf38bTnxnBpty3k1Z0dFsOWgh-PFz7pUu0sc2PIq5NsuaHvCfVIPUR7zyZvuSIk5zxUmZzsqc1I7z4dzen2W-bOfUC/s1600/2022157814-300x192.jpg" /></a></div><br />Crystal Pite GIFTED her brilliance to the PNB dancers for this mind blowing piece. Actually its NOT a piece...Emergence is an EXPERIENCE. It's a journey. I heard so many people asking questions after to their friends and family, about the subjects, about the process and journey, trying to figure it all out. It left people talking and wondering. It even sparked questions in my circle trying to determine who was what. Until finally our daughter, (who is a Professional Division student that was an understudy and got the amazing opportunity to dance in this last night) said something to us when we met her at the stage door. We fired a barrage of questions at her because she danced it, she would know right!?<br /><i><b> "It is all up to interpretation. It can be whatever you see, whatever you imagine it to be. Its not at literal as you need it to be"</b></i>. Note taken and absorbed, thanks Ms. Bee. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyjFG4ATJNE8edB1rhy2sj__XhUktBqL8r_rargJPXg7a53LaJV9yml33CnhYR6vGaK5Z2LqFMDWPTv5Fq74_JuI76m364u8UmPiwh1yzoiMGKXokW8K-mf1GjxKwcYy0lK9j1x0gOGgdX/s1600/emerg1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyjFG4ATJNE8edB1rhy2sj__XhUktBqL8r_rargJPXg7a53LaJV9yml33CnhYR6vGaK5Z2LqFMDWPTv5Fq74_JuI76m364u8UmPiwh1yzoiMGKXokW8K-mf1GjxKwcYy0lK9j1x0gOGgdX/s320/emerg1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br />The opening. Soloist <i><b>Margaret Mullin</b></i> was absolutely riveting and scary good as the EMERGING bee. I kept cursing under my breath in awe. Just shockingly insane. The music, subtle rhythmic and insect-like, made each bug like twitching and twisting movement that much more accurate and intriguing. <br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTvQZhstnOLw965JKipLrE5HyJXesZXWNTnXlW-SwzE1G-rzwk9tBxr-ChyphenhyphenzeQLg-pYG1aiAjG9FySTjVNEX0lcz3M4BnB3jLBy0xQuGbYxSvoo4geR6UHddVXkht4quhWnbybbu7slQQ2/s1600/10806446513_46064203ee_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTvQZhstnOLw965JKipLrE5HyJXesZXWNTnXlW-SwzE1G-rzwk9tBxr-ChyphenhyphenzeQLg-pYG1aiAjG9FySTjVNEX0lcz3M4BnB3jLBy0xQuGbYxSvoo4geR6UHddVXkht4quhWnbybbu7slQQ2/s320/10806446513_46064203ee_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The female bees come out in what looked like a cross between a fencing <br />and a bee keeper mask. The corps women did an amazing FLUID job of <br />embodying the queen bee spirit. Their unison bourres' sounding like the <br />low hum of bees and moving them across the stage like they were <br />swarming. <br /><br />Truly every woman had to be strong and exactly together to make the visual a reality and they delivered x10. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglLo_qjx3fhoYWnWJqEOhHDDC6fHEAnF_OGxYftqkuVXf2bmNHXMUUOX4IzmhXbfz01LMq25rD8YWKv9ujC1c6ZkcmmSO3_mJ9jT-6DUFI_RX_m6JRQi8sxOZmOqN8NTJc1HKarRwya9oN/s1600/emerge4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglLo_qjx3fhoYWnWJqEOhHDDC6fHEAnF_OGxYftqkuVXf2bmNHXMUUOX4IzmhXbfz01LMq25rD8YWKv9ujC1c6ZkcmmSO3_mJ9jT-6DUFI_RX_m6JRQi8sxOZmOqN8NTJc1HKarRwya9oN/s320/emerge4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> <br />To be VERY honest the treat of this piece is the men. Adorned with amazing back<br /> artwork and swarming together like you have never seen them before in <br />one place, it was truly a sight to see. You will never see all of the PNB men in one place like this. They showed so much strength but also versatility to give us such <br />bug-like movements. Crystal has an uncanny ability to manipulate the <br />dancer to take her visions and learn to move in ways I think most of <br />them had not done before.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWvajI-lWNurgXEicutcDZSrXuq_Ld4BvvqnwtIgox6Qumcfa9WOtOWhX1aHj5Xgy3HRAVKWiuwwhQD0HrLb9RP2afQoBG-C8mlGfTjD3w1PYqJP6r4UXRZis0x0wqzT1oZIHiE7HGTWrR/s1600/emerge5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWvajI-lWNurgXEicutcDZSrXuq_Ld4BvvqnwtIgox6Qumcfa9WOtOWhX1aHj5Xgy3HRAVKWiuwwhQD0HrLb9RP2afQoBG-C8mlGfTjD3w1PYqJP6r4UXRZis0x0wqzT1oZIHiE7HGTWrR/s320/emerge5.jpg" width="251" /></a></div><br /><br />The solo bee women, served FIERCE bee moments especially Leah Merchants <br />solo with the men. It was almost like she was having a Mulan moment and<br /> trying to be part of their group. Explored Gender and the struggle, all in that moment. Gorgeous performance. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN6yJiNzetIw7zul5kPH4Z5o9QvGnQFOUg0jwY2gb6CPN2D1mTsRenMDnEDMi9AFIJ7x0BtdMtYMGfJWWpS2aCNnADjNik8pydu-rLomov_QrB4x19fTB1EuIwwIABwUr4NLFFw-06haQp/s1600/emerg2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN6yJiNzetIw7zul5kPH4Z5o9QvGnQFOUg0jwY2gb6CPN2D1mTsRenMDnEDMi9AFIJ7x0BtdMtYMGfJWWpS2aCNnADjNik8pydu-rLomov_QrB4x19fTB1EuIwwIABwUr4NLFFw-06haQp/s320/emerg2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />The other powerful duet, Laura Tisserand, coupled with the powerful Bold, owned every inch of space around her. She embodied <br />the queen of the hive and had me speechless with how much intensity she gave. <br /><br />Standing ovation to Crystal for such an intense journey that I am <br />still reeling from today. A huge thank you to Artistic Director Peter <br />Boal for taking a risk, one of many risks he is taking this season that I<br /> know will prove to not only benefit the Ballet as a whole but will <br />benefit the dancers and the experience we have as the audience. Go to <br />this rep and get ready to take a journey from start to finish.<br /><br />Go EMERGE, you will not regret it.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQMCQwaMtJU89dbx2K9qL-AUsFyWTdBTOJCoecyeyHW5P26Iyp8FBSI0fkUSpUtS9BKWR55TtoUQmdL55crXNSezGwr1SmdParvk2ukJ6leC8s7UjCS1JWMpdK0vdLLwWCQwa1GWNpDpaL/s1600/emerg3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQMCQwaMtJU89dbx2K9qL-AUsFyWTdBTOJCoecyeyHW5P26Iyp8FBSI0fkUSpUtS9BKWR55TtoUQmdL55crXNSezGwr1SmdParvk2ukJ6leC8s7UjCS1JWMpdK0vdLLwWCQwa1GWNpDpaL/s640/emerg3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: small;">All photos courtesy of the amazing Angela Sterling who's work can be found at <a href="http://www.angelasterlingphoto.com/" target="_blank">http://www.angelasterlingphoto.com</a></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ-L4Lq_gRcKMf5cb2hTS6Zx62thtNNklz2M-eTBYmp6Ekb_YyFRCUPIFDkr7BsxwHe50-BGrN08urOmljGLpVVzIjMQ0RnzpPjpFgGWtrtGTQG15m_537PglLYfngJdODeg_weM0HFZ0O/s1600/emerg5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ-L4Lq_gRcKMf5cb2hTS6Zx62thtNNklz2M-eTBYmp6Ekb_YyFRCUPIFDkr7BsxwHe50-BGrN08urOmljGLpVVzIjMQ0RnzpPjpFgGWtrtGTQG15m_537PglLYfngJdODeg_weM0HFZ0O/s640/emerg5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br />Thee Ultimate Patronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04267208779673543787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080647157043820252.post-6457424581781797742015-09-26T18:49:00.000-07:002015-09-26T18:49:34.652-07:00Fat's Chicken and Waffles - BEST I have had EVER<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N2xTP3jDP4M/VgcoA57oAiI/AAAAAAAACDk/B8elRnYPtl8/s1600/image.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N2xTP3jDP4M/VgcoA57oAiI/AAAAAAAACDk/B8elRnYPtl8/s320/image.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Fat's Chicken and Waffles</span></strong><br />
<span itemprop="streetAddress">2726 E Cherry St</span><br />
<span itemprop="addressLocality">Seattle</span>, <span itemprop="addressRegion">WA</span> <span itemprop="postalCode">98122</span> <span class="cross-streets"> </span><br />
<span class="cross-streets">27th Ave & Temple Pl -</span><span class="neighborhood-str-list">Central District </span> <br />
<span class="i-wrap ig-wrap-common i-phone-cta-common-wrap mapbox-icon"><span class="biz-phone" itemprop="telephone">(206) 602-6863 </span> </span><br />
<span class="i-wrap ig-wrap-common i-external-link-grey-common-wrap mapbox-icon"><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz_redir?url=http%3A%2F%2Ffatschickenandwaffles.com&src_bizid=WZbZ8h_60QMQvO4vpIWpxQ&cachebuster=1443313030&s=a35d8f0ec0f397501e638abc0c615f4fd941cb74e32cd826a89306567dec6003" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">fatschickenandwaffles.com</a> </span><br />
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<span class="i-wrap ig-wrap-common i-external-link-grey-common-wrap mapbox-icon">From the owners of Lil' Woody's in Ballard - this is a welcome addition to the Central District. Locally owned and locally managed - this spot has only been open a month and there was a line out the door when we got there this past Friday night.</span><br />
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<span class="i-wrap ig-wrap-common i-external-link-grey-common-wrap mapbox-icon">Greeted by every waiter and the manager, which to me is so important and a huge part of the restaurant experience. The staff was happy to be there, the customers were happily eating and the place was bustling. Thankfully we had friends get there ahead of us, and had saved a table. They were already munching on appetizers and had ordered the mac and cheese and drum sticks - and I would take a photo but they had already licked the bowls clean!</span><br />
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<span class="i-wrap ig-wrap-common i-external-link-grey-common-wrap mapbox-icon">While waiting for our main dishes we ordered drinks as well as friend green tomatoes, which were tart and yummy and paired with a creamy pimento cheese which made my southern husband happier than a preacher on Sunday! "You people in the Northwest don't appreciate the importance of a good pimento sandwich!" Nope, I sure don't lol. The atmosphere was bright and comfortable but not too comfortable. They want you to enjoy yourself but don't sleep - because someone is always waiting for your seat!</span><br />
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<span class="i-wrap ig-wrap-common i-external-link-grey-common-wrap mapbox-icon">Now to the food. I have had chicken and waffles served lots of ways. Bone in or boneless, dark meat or light meat, spicy or bland - and the waffles have ranged from thick and dry to crunchy and overdone. These were PERFECT on both fronts. </span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E22sCRBnRhs/VgcoAzE3fOI/AAAAAAAACD0/WDNpRPA1vI4/s1600/image.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E22sCRBnRhs/VgcoAzE3fOI/AAAAAAAACD0/WDNpRPA1vI4/s320/image.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span class="i-wrap ig-wrap-common i-external-link-grey-common-wrap mapbox-icon">So because its the name of the spot and my dish - I will review my plate first. Let it be known: I COULD EAT THIS MEAL ONCE A WEEK AND I JUST MIGHT. </span><br />
<span class="i-wrap ig-wrap-common i-external-link-grey-common-wrap mapbox-icon">Chicken was fried perfectly with just a little spice. BONELESS breast that wasn't too greasy. TWO, yes let me say it again TWO thin waffles that were the size of a small hubcap. I was in heaven. You will use ALL of your butter and ALL of your syrup and a little hot sauce if you know how to do it. It was perfect. I had to resist the urge to eat with my fingers and swoon to a nearby table. </span><br />
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<span class="i-wrap ig-wrap-common i-external-link-grey-common-wrap mapbox-icon">If I had to add anything I would say MORE syrup or even dispensers on the tables so you don't have to ask for more. </span><br />
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<span class="i-wrap ig-wrap-common i-external-link-grey-common-wrap mapbox-icon">Every single person in our group tried a bite and had the same reaction. A photo doesn't do it justice.</span><br />
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<span class="i-wrap ig-wrap-common i-external-link-grey-common-wrap mapbox-icon">The other three people had sandwiches. Your choice of fries (which were a think shoe string done just perfectly and seasoned lightly) or beans and rice. Here are the three sandwiches - which I was told were ALL amazing, done perfectly, dressed generously and HUGE.</span><br />
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<span class="i-wrap ig-wrap-common i-external-link-grey-common-wrap mapbox-icon">The Fried Chicken Sandwich with Pimento Cheese and Pickles (My husbands choice of course) He said "It was perfect. Very few people understand the importance of pickles and pimento paired with fried chicken"</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HzpknI_Y2uQ/VgcoAWPCpFI/AAAAAAAACDU/OnWhBzrJ_go/s1600/image.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HzpknI_Y2uQ/VgcoAWPCpFI/AAAAAAAACDU/OnWhBzrJ_go/s320/image.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Fried Shrimp Sandwich with a side of Rice and Beans was ordered by our friend Justin who barely spoke and when we looked over the rice and beans were GONE and the sandwich close to gone. That was testimony enough.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qPbe9Epvkwc/VgcoAaz8WjI/AAAAAAAACDY/ra-wiSn1sM8/s1600/image.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qPbe9Epvkwc/VgcoAaz8WjI/AAAAAAAACDY/ra-wiSn1sM8/s320/image.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Fried Catfish Sandwich was ordered by my friend Marika and she said it was awesome - "It was an awesome balance of all the flavors you want on a catfish sandwich, including texture." </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A2xqm7jN3jg/VgcoAIuJtGI/AAAAAAAACDM/vXXmRq8E5ZI/s1600/image.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A2xqm7jN3jg/VgcoAIuJtGI/AAAAAAAACDM/vXXmRq8E5ZI/s320/image.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Go to Fats, and if there is a line, WAIT, its WORTH IT. Support local businesses in the CD and support the owners and the neighborhood. Erika the Manager did a great job of making sure we were always happy, while balancing her staff and the to-go orders. She was laid back and calm during the rush and made everyone feel welcome and like family. That and those damn chicken and waffles, is why we will be back...maybe even this week lol...</div>
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<span class="i-wrap ig-wrap-common i-external-link-grey-common-wrap mapbox-icon"></span><br />Thee Ultimate Patronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04267208779673543787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080647157043820252.post-21863653039319653492015-09-26T17:07:00.000-07:002015-09-26T17:08:37.915-07:00Best Foodie movie since Big Night and Like Water for Chocolate...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-59S-bSu0nh8/VgcoBGkAy8I/AAAAAAAACEM/y5fkkuOxamc/s1600/image.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-59S-bSu0nh8/VgcoBGkAy8I/AAAAAAAACEM/y5fkkuOxamc/s320/image.jpeg" width="216" /></a></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2980648/" target="_blank">The Hundred-Foot Journey</a></span></strong><br />
<strong>2014</strong><br />
<strong>Directed by: </strong><span class="itemprop" itemprop="name">Lasse Hallström</span><br />
<strong>Staring: <span class="itemprop" itemprop="name">Helen Mirren</span>, <span class="itemprop" itemprop="name">Om Puri</span>, <span class="itemprop" itemprop="name">Manish Dayal</span></strong><br />
<strong><span class="itemprop" itemprop="name">Rated: PG</span></strong><br />
<strong><span class="itemprop" itemprop="name"></span></strong><br />
Not since <em><strong><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0103994/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1" target="_blank">"Like Water for Chocolate"</a></strong></em> or <em><strong><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0115678/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">"Big Night",</a></strong></em> has a foodie cooking movie moved me in this way. Food movies, in my opinion, are so hard to pull off - because food is subjective and really talented cooking and the finess that goes into it - is hard to make realistic and real on the big screen. Much like art, what is amazing to one person isnt amazing to another. What is talent to one, isnt talent to another in regards to cooking as well. This move shows both sides of the cooking world so brilliantly, and then brings you to a glorious happy medium in the end, literally leaving you weeping in your food.<br />
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The Kadam family travels from India to France - after the loss of the Matriarch of the family - who was the parent that laid the foundation for her children to cook with their hearts. She taught them to cherish and celebrate ingredients for what they are and to dig deep into your roots to give food a peice of yourself. The father (played by Om Puri who tugs at your heart strings the entire movie) and his children leave their home in search of a place to carry on her memory through food, and a place to share their love of food with others. They find a location that is literally 100 feet from one of the towns classiest French restaurants, that has a Michelin star to back it up - owned by the stern and recently widowed Madam Mallory (played by the amazing Helen Mirren).<br />
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Hasan Kadam (Brilliantly played by Manish Dayal) is the middle son who has been blessed with the cooking talents and pallet of his mother. He mets one of the sous chef's from Madam Mallory's restaurant at the local market, and though there is obvious attraction it is clear, they are from two diffferent sides of a turf war.<br />
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The restaurants begin battling over food, music, taste, customers and even decorations. The movie is fairly predictable at this point, until it takes a dramatic turn and exposes emotions and heart on both sides.<br />
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I watched this movie on a plane, not knowing it was a Speilberg/Oprah film and adored it. Cried like a baby. Being a home cook and someone who loves cooking for people as a way to show them how much I care about them, this movie touched my heart.<br />
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The ending had me reeling - I wont ruin it - but I can tell you that it takes a turn I didnt see coming. I found it an interesting turn none the less, as it visited the topic of school trained chefs vs self taught. <br />
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Does your culture and family taught cooking ability give you an edge in the foodie world? Or is Culinary School the only way to propel your career and mold you into a true chef? I like to think its a bit of both.<br />
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The movie is wrapped up with a big emotional comfort food bow at the end, which can be cheesy but then I realized, thats what food does. It makes you feel silly, happy and cheesy - and this is what that movie did. A great movie about culture, family, determination and how the food effects the human spirit.Thee Ultimate Patronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04267208779673543787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080647157043820252.post-60298215652401578232015-08-10T17:49:00.001-07:002015-08-10T17:49:47.607-07:00Foodie photo of the week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBEqIrQ_xUVo35revY_QgT-7nIxBu-qwrVj6gfNHlDdnGBiKY7kuVKsg5xNqciLLvufe3g-bkJUl4S56jUqsx8ezmUKsStbjUhN0vSEag1PDfJ4egXjSAvKAM7R5vG0Bu-Tg-THDtgZcPu/s1600/11792086_10154081327689256_8127277473736242756_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBEqIrQ_xUVo35revY_QgT-7nIxBu-qwrVj6gfNHlDdnGBiKY7kuVKsg5xNqciLLvufe3g-bkJUl4S56jUqsx8ezmUKsStbjUhN0vSEag1PDfJ4egXjSAvKAM7R5vG0Bu-Tg-THDtgZcPu/s320/11792086_10154081327689256_8127277473736242756_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
"The Cookie"<br />
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METROPOLITAN MARKET<br />
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2 types of Belgium chocolate, toasted walnuts, always baking and always served warm. You will SWOON. GO GET THEM.<br />
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Thee Ultimate Patronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04267208779673543787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080647157043820252.post-36871958881276972192015-07-23T01:29:00.001-07:002015-07-23T01:29:50.001-07:00Photo of the Day - Pizza Week - micro review<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbsXjQbylD2YdGvfrmu_M3rvZ3k_S1A-tOf8UPUPhlV8uAJSllAzuG76Kz-F-j1paP9Yvgxh-JU038g14hzLo9slLRaKg99V8LqY1FM3YgxSmHTiO0e2MxEEP0kz3DU8X2g-WPeqMGRLb3/s640/blogger-image--195510505.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbsXjQbylD2YdGvfrmu_M3rvZ3k_S1A-tOf8UPUPhlV8uAJSllAzuG76Kz-F-j1paP9Yvgxh-JU038g14hzLo9slLRaKg99V8LqY1FM3YgxSmHTiO0e2MxEEP0kz3DU8X2g-WPeqMGRLb3/s640/blogger-image--195510505.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">My husband<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> and I had our own imposed Pizza Week last week and here are my mini reviews:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Monday: Zayda Buddies (Ballard) 4 on the yum scale. Great service, loud trivia and great beers. (Bottom left)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Tuesday: Rocco's (Bell Town) 5 on the yum scale, great service after a wait for our initial drinks. (Top right)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Wednesday: The Masonry (Queen Anne) 2 on the yum scale. Boo don't go there I was so disappointed! Yellow mozz really!? Ew! (Bottom right pic)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Thursday: i made homemade Calzones at home. You will have to ask the people who ate them where on the yum scale they rated 😜 (bottom middle pic)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Friday: Vince's (Renton) 5 on the Yum scale and I have been eating that pizza for 40 years and it's still just as good. (Top left pic) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Moral of this story. Fun times and great excuse for 5 date nights in a row but we currently both realize how much a lie "I could live on pizza"! Really is lol. #pizza #foodie #foodporn #seattle #northwest #cooking #recipes #reviews #instafood</div></div>Thee Ultimate Patronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04267208779673543787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080647157043820252.post-55218660053083901532015-07-22T16:22:00.002-07:002015-07-22T16:28:08.311-07:00Its Clear, the should have talked about Kevin...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUdwEhqdowvblBpWNJOHG4zPeb1XpLNuKmf-lLToqRjjzI6Orqqcn20JmeNoNHFP_qNyBrp8xS3KS6jeMoCWAmFaduPfoKHhQMkxiaUHLaKNjRJ9utXei-ZYoPLbRJKsIs8IjDxnepqRWI/s1600/Kevin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUdwEhqdowvblBpWNJOHG4zPeb1XpLNuKmf-lLToqRjjzI6Orqqcn20JmeNoNHFP_qNyBrp8xS3KS6jeMoCWAmFaduPfoKHhQMkxiaUHLaKNjRJ9utXei-ZYoPLbRJKsIs8IjDxnepqRWI/s320/Kevin.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
We Need to Talk about Kevin<br />
2011<br />
Director: <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0708903/?ref_=tt_ov_dr" itemprop="url"><span class="itemprop" itemprop="name"></span></a>Lynne Ramsay<br />
Starring: Tilda Swinton, John C. Reilly, Ezra Miller<br />
Rated: R<br />
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NOTE: This is NOT a movie for kids. I know parents are very lenient with Rater R movies but I would not recommend this for anyone under 17. <br />
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This movie blew my mind. It is from the perspective of the PARENT of a youth that commits a horrible crime. Her experience in the neighborhood where the crime happened, AFTER the fact - as well as flash backs to the crime itself.<br />
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Tilda Swinton, who garnered a Golden Globe nomination for her role as Eva, mother of Kevin was SO convincing as the troubled and forlorn mother who struggled with her child literally since birth. The movie opens with Eva at something that looks like La Tomatina in Spain - where she is metaphorically held up by the crowd, in the position of Jesus on the crucifix, covered in tomatoes, to represent blood, then slowly lowered down and covered dramatically by the commotion. Certainly setting the tone for how her life would run its course down the road. As a kid who took film classes in high school and college, the symbolism was awesome.<br />
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The movie touches on the effects of Postpartum Depression, and her own depression and self worth as a mother as she was aware of her depression and its affects on her son. The balance of her motherly instincts and her intuition that something was not right with her son, was played in such a torn and heartbreaking way. You find yourself sympathizing with Eva - who tries to get people to see his red flags, only to be labeled a bad mother or out of touch. We even see Eva get won over by his sweet little boy moments, second guessing even her own thoughts of behavioral issues. Kevin goes from fussy baby to terrible twos that last several years, with moments of madness that only his mother seems concerned with.<br />
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The most shocking and intense part of this movie were the flash backs, and that is how we get to the topic of the actors that played Kevin - and portrayed the process of how the child became the young boy/man that ended up committing this crime.<br />
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Before I get started on the brilliance of Ezra Miller as the teenaged and current day "Kevin" I must acknowledge the younger actor - Jasper Newell played Kevin ages 6-8 years -- he was bone chilling. As we watched we kept wondering HOW they were able to get a kid to act SO well at such a young age. The lack of remorse, the sterile reactions to when he inflicted pain, and the ability to change from angelic to demonic behavior was incredible.<br />
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Now lets get to Ezra Miller. Talk about brilliance. This kid - who I had been impressed with in Perks of Being a Wallflower had the amazing effortless ability to switch on and off the troubled teen to adoring youth. His ability to inflict pain with NO remorse really freaked me out as a mother. He showed love for his mother at some moments and then flipped back to the angry and insane teenager that frightened her to her core the next.<br />
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The mother in me kept trying to find SOMETHING good in him. Something redeeming, some reason for it all. Where was his anger and hostility coming from? Why did he hate her so? What lead him to have no remorse or accountability for his actions. I KNOW the movie was fiction..but the story was real. Real in the fact that in the U.S. we have seen it happen OVER and OVER. This movie gives you a scary and seemingly accurate view of how the entire ordeal could have begun or started. It goes to places that we as society don't want to talk about. It answered the questions I often ask after these tragedies "HOW does his mother sleep at night" or "I wonder how he was raised for this to happen!" and it gave me perspective on the humanity of the people involved in such a sad and horrible situation.<br />
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Watch this movie. Its on Netflix. 5 Stars for sure. *****<br />
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<br />Thee Ultimate Patronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04267208779673543787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080647157043820252.post-39585047835656798672015-07-06T13:41:00.004-07:002015-07-06T13:42:47.330-07:00Kesté Pizza & Vino - "that was it" and it was outstanding <div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pU3KmJ1_YcA/VZnJYq9gwGI/AAAAAAAAB9I/cZDADudaA_k/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pU3KmJ1_YcA/VZnJYq9gwGI/AAAAAAAAB9I/cZDADudaA_k/s320/image.jpg" width="238" /></a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Kesté Pizza &Vino</span></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"> 271 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014</span><br />
<a href="tel:(212)%20243-1500" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;" x-apple-data-detectors-result="1" x-apple-data-detectors-type="telephone" x-apple-data-detectors="true">(212) 243-1500</a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;">Kesté - in Italian Neapolitan dialect literally translates to "this is it". To me that translated into what every Italian does when they cook you dinner, put their heart and soul into the meal and then present it to you as if saying "this is it" or "this is everything". That is definitely the feeling we had at </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;">Kesté.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;">I was in Manhattan for a medical emergency that my daughter had experienced while there for a ballet training program. I had a horrible week and my uncle Vince, owner of Seattle's <a href="http://www.pulcinellapizza.com/" target="_blank">Pizzeria Pulcinella</a> (Seattle's premier Neapolitan wood fire pizza restaurant), called me and said - when Madison gets out of the hospital, I want to treat you two to dinner at my friend Roberto's place in West Village. I welcomed a treat after the stressful week, so he arranged reservations the upcoming weekend. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;">There was a line out the door and it was pouring rain. I told the waiter we had 7pm reservations, and was told politely that they didn't take reservations. I apologized and said "I must have misunderstood my uncle Vince..." and the manager threw up his hands, smiled and in his thick Italian accent "ahhhhh you are Mariangela! We have been expecting you! I will get you to your table now!" We were taken to a table in the center of the small busy restaurant, where all the waiters rushing around (who spoke fluent Italian to each other) greeted us as we were seated. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;">They took my wine order and we started with the Caprese, after seeing they made their own mozzarella in house. It arrived in a ball with fresh tomatoes sliced around it and aromatic basil leaves. They served it with olive oil and balsamic vinegar on the side and offered freshly ground pepper. The homemade mozzarella was soft, fresh and light, melting in your mouth, not too strong of a taste, very well balanced. Perfect way to start the meal.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;">I must say, as we ate, though it was a BUSY and bustling restaurant, being a people watcher, it was fun to sit back and watch the staff. Every member of the wait staff and management spoke fluent Italian. I pride myself in understanding most Italian (though never speaking enough to be fluent) and was enjoying the banter and family feeling as they yelled to each other while working. It made me feel as though I was at a family dinner, and I loved it.</span></span></span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c7JxQXYmtHY/VZnJX9AfMNI/AAAAAAAAB9U/LR5IA2lj_78/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c7JxQXYmtHY/VZnJX9AfMNI/AAAAAAAAB9U/LR5IA2lj_78/s320/image.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;">Next up were our pizza's. My daughter ordered the Salame pizza and I ordered <span style="font-size: small;">the house special, The </span></span></span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"><span style="font-size: small;">Kesté. Being a picky teenager, my daughter was a bit worried about the spice level of the house made salame, but was pleasantly surprised. It was flavorful but not overpowering - the salame was lovely and aromatic, sliced thin and cooked till just crisp enough in the oven, and the pizza had just the right amount of sauce and cheese, and finally topped with more fragrant basil.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;">As a half Italian who's mother has been making homemade pizza her whole life and a pizza restaurant in the family, my daughter is picky in regards to sauce and crust, both which got her thumbs up approval, verbally and in the amount she consumed.</span></span></span><br />
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Now, there is reason I ordered the house special, other than the fact
that the ingredients were mouth watering and I am ALWAYS enticed by the
tease of an imported Buffalo Mozzarella. I like to try the house
special at all pizza restaurants I visit. Growing up with Seattle's <a href="http://www.vincesitalian.com/" target="_blank">Vince's Restaurant and Pizzeria</a> in my family - I was in LOVE with their house "Special". To me it says to the customer "This is what we believe in and trust enough to put our name on it, and that when all else fails, this you will love". Its the standard, a way to judge the establishment and their product. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">The <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;">Kesté : Tomato Sauce, imported buffalo mozzarella, prosciutto di parma, arugula, gran cru, extra virgin olive oil. Again - I was enticed mostly by the buffalo mozzarella, but after my first bite, in love with the entire thing. The balance of the fresh greens that seemed to cleanse your palate for each bite - with the rich mozzarella, the gran cru and salty prosciutto was a VIP party in my mouth. I almost had a When Harry Met Sally moment however restrained myself.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;">This pizza was the perfect representation of what Roberto </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;">Caporuscio has created in an establishment. I am proud to be not only 100% Italian but my family is from the same region as Roberto, Napoli. So I appreciated not only the feel and the dialect shared, but also the essential authenticity of the Neapolitan wood fire pizza. The technique is very boutique popular right now, so every time one opens, I am a little weary, knowing that my standards are high, and most don't pass my criti</span>ques.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">At the end of our meal, we were contently full, and had some to take home as well. In true Italian style, was asked if I wanted any espresso after my meal, to which I quickly welcomed. </span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xhuei4OgFHw/VZnJXZOrZ5I/AAAAAAAAB9Q/wVA7kOhir2Q/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xhuei4OgFHw/VZnJXZOrZ5I/AAAAAAAAB9Q/wVA7kOhir2Q/s320/image.jpg" width="179" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Served and brewed </span>perfectly, it was a smooth after dinner treat, as we were both too full for dessert - though the REPUTATION of the Nutella, Berry and Ricotta stuffed pizza was SO enticing and is my reason to want to return.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Please visit <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;">Kesté when in Manhattan next. Go for the amazing food and go for a taste of what it is like to be in a real Neapolitan restaurant in the heart of New York city.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;">***** 5 Stars easily </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="http://www.kestepizzeria.com/" target="_blank">http://www.kestepizzeria.com </a></span></span><br />
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Thee Ultimate Patronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04267208779673543787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080647157043820252.post-72344583054192275472015-03-14T14:20:00.000-07:002015-03-14T17:22:51.067-07:00#Triple_Bill proves Staggering and Brave<br /><br /><a href="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/03/14/351.jpg"><img align="left" border="0" src="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/03/14/s_351.jpg" height="156" style="margin: 5px;" width="280"></a><br /><br />The Vertiginous Thrill of Forsythe<br />Pacific Northwest Ballet<br />March 13-22, 2015<br />Choreographer: William Forsythe<br />Artistic Director: Peter Boal<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYUo9fK6J0lAlJdJ2hyaK99S14jvohhFN0TMY3NhqvQfUN1-mxUY6P8Yzjl1xI_xsfr-TVsDTq3XlJ81xyZb74vGm7gL_duhJNDUuomJk3Be-E_8PXHElaFSU4cEdx4Apts2qhX0IOPTh-/s640/blogger-image-1810617582.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYUo9fK6J0lAlJdJ2hyaK99S14jvohhFN0TMY3NhqvQfUN1-mxUY6P8Yzjl1xI_xsfr-TVsDTq3XlJ81xyZb74vGm7gL_duhJNDUuomJk3Be-E_8PXHElaFSU4cEdx4Apts2qhX0IOPTh-/s640/blogger-image-1810617582.jpg"></a></div>When you can't find words to describe something, I find going to the original subject matter as well as a Webster dictionary is always helpful. Watching opening night of the triple bill of Bill - "The Vertiginous Thrill of Forsythe last night truly made me feel like I had a pleasant case of vertigo. No one likes to spin, but as any dancer will tell you, if you have a spot, it is thrilling. Forsythe had us all spinning willingly into his web of obtuse and uncommon angles and combinations, as I watched patrons shifting in their seats and tilting their heads when something threw them off balance from what their minds were used to.<br /><br />I often rate a ballet by how it makes me feel as I watch it. The common feels: passion, sadness, inspiration, joy. What Forsythe and the PNB dancers evoked were feels that aren't common when watching a dance performance: awe, anxiety, shock, perplex, suspense, admiration and of course speechlessness. Changes and uncommon things are hard for some people, but I find them exciting because of the brave ability to try something new and show people a different side of what the norm is.<br /><br />If you know me or my reviews at all you know my pretty unspoken guideline is if I don't like a performance or a dancer I do NOT write about it. Art is subjective and I truly believe that there is no right or wrong in art, just opinion. Also if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say it (but feel free to whisper it in my ear lol). YES I have friends in the company but I refuse to be biased and will not mention any dancer specifically unless they knocked my brains out of my head.<br /><br />#1 - Vertiginous Thrill of Exactitude. EXACTITIUDE: the quality of being exact, precision, accuracy. In this piece every dancer blew my mind. The epitome of precision. Every movement was done with such a fierce level of technique. If I had to put a face next to the word Precision in the dictionary it would be of soloist Ben Griffiths. This photo (by Angela Sterling) just shows a glimmer of what he did in this piece. Mind you all of the dancers in this piece were absolutely amazing, serving you every quick technical combination with a level of agility and energy unmatched in any other piece of the evening. The piece set the tone of energy for the entire evening.<br /><br /><a href="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/03/14/353.jpg"><img align="left" border="0" src="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/03/14/s_353.jpg" height="500" style="margin: 5px;" width="500"></a><br /><br />Next up was piece #2 -- New Suite. A collection of duets, each with a different type of emotion from the next. It was this piece that his unique choreography shined. Again all of the dancers shined and were impressive. But again the ones that made me feel in order of the strongest being first: <br /><br />1) Berio 2 - Chelsea Adomaitis and Steven Loch (video from rehearsal below) soft passion filled combinations mixed with a few sharp movements coupled with a chemistry between the two dancers made this ooze with emotion. I wanted their duet to be twice as long and I wanted to know what their back story was. Where they drew from. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://ytimg.googleusercontent.com/vi/0aUhNK8tJPU/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/0aUhNK8tJPU?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe><br /><br /><br />2) Berio 3 - Lindsi Dec and Jerome Tisserand - wow. So many thing that made my head tilt, I felt like I had no idea where this was going but that is why I liked it. A more serious and less passionate emotion but still intense. The dancers had a level of fluidity that made me awestruck. <br /><br />Other stand outs were Lesley Rausch, Angelica Generosa and Jahna Frantziskonis - all had a level of poise that were refreshing to the pieces. Again EVERY dancer in this piece was phenomenal, the ones mentioned are just still lingering in my memories today.<br /><br />Last but most certainly not least #3 - In the Middle a Somewhat Elevated. So I had never seen this. I was told "oh you will love it!" and that between the music and the bare bones of it I would really enjoy it.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/03/14/374.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/03/14/s_374.jpg' border='0' width='268' height='280' align='left' style='margin:5px'></a><br /><br /><br /><br />In this piece you saw what the last 2 weeks work with the man, the artist himself, William Forsythe can do and had been done to the dancers of Pacific Northwest Ballet. <div><br /></div><div>They had been stripped down. Worked to the very core of their souls and he helped them tear away what they knew as beautiful and strong in order to build up what was real, unusual and a new level of power and beauty. The lighting and music was startling and at times made me anxious and also so positively intrigued. So many stereotypes about movement and dancers are broken in this piece. The dancers were strong, fierce and intentional. As a group they all stood out to me but who lingered in my head in this piece was no dancer - it was the choreographer himself. It left me wanting to pick his brain and ask all sorts of questions. To see where it took the dancers emotionally. </div><div><br /></div><div>The best review of the night came from my husband - who doesn't see a lot of reps unless our daughter is somehow involved. I told him I thought he would enjoy it. After the first piece when he was audibly clapping and giving praise I knew he loved it. At the end of the show he said "Peter and the dancers should be incredibly proud of themselves. That show was so impressive and so different than anything I have seen from them. They should be proud for taking such a risk, it paid off and was incredible." </div><div><br /></div><div>That speaks volumes from him. Go see the show while you can, this weekend or next weekend tickets at http://www.pnb.org. Bravo to the dancers and to Mr. Forsythe for transforming the PNB dancers into raw pieces of art. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br />Thee Ultimate Patronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04267208779673543787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080647157043820252.post-14224684065141978972015-02-15T16:53:00.001-08:002015-02-15T16:55:14.035-08:00Foodie Pic of the Week<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/15/650.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/15/s_650.jpg' border='0' width='209' height='280' align='left' style='margin:5px'></a><br /><br /><br />Breakfast Sandwich made with their homemade savory biscuit, an egg, white cheddar, arugula, tomato, creme fraiche and your choice of ham, bacon or vegi patty. Absolutely delicious. Kind and helpful staff, quick service and yum food. Go visit.<br /><br />I will support any business where the motto is "Eat. Drink. Be a Good Citizen."<br /><br />Citizen<br />706 Taylor Ave. N.<br />Seattle, WA.<br />Queen Anne Neighborhood<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/15/651.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/15/s_651.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='193' align='left' style='margin:5px'></a><br /><br /><br /><br />Thee Ultimate Patronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04267208779673543787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080647157043820252.post-17193435766886264982015-02-03T11:53:00.001-08:002015-02-03T12:01:43.524-08:00Don Quixote - PNB's offers low price to a magical destination<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/03/561.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/03/s_561.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='157' align='left' style='margin:5px'></a><br /><br /><br />January 30 - February 8th<br />Pacific Northwest Ballet <br />McCaw Hall<br />Artistic Director: Peter Boal<br />Choreography: Marius Petipa, Alexander Gorsky, Alexei Ratmansky <br />Music: Ludwig Minkus (performed by the wonderful Pacific Northwest Ballet Orchestra)<br /><br />I wouldn't call myself well versed in all the classic ballets, but I do think I have seen a lot of the greats. One I had never seen was Don Q. I was expecting a storybook ballet, because well it's from a classic story right? No. What I experienced was SO much more. <br /><br />Start with the sets. Breathtaking, from the quaint town, to the dream scene and wedding scene, huge production quality and gorgeous. Costumes were so beautiful and made each character that much more exciting. Special mention: Gamache: his over the top pink silk suit with bows on his shoes had me in fits of laughter. BOWS on his shoes. Also Kitris red color blocked tutu is worth the ticket price alone. Simply gorgeous.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/03/548.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/03/s_548.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' align='left' style='margin:5px'></a><br /><br /><br /><br />Now to the dancing. I watched dress rehearsal and witnessed the rising star soloist Liz Murphy in the role of Kitri. She was so lovely. Such a wonderful great actress, and so comical I had no idea she could do that so well. She played the character with such an innocent playfulness but also with a very deep soul. As someone who has watched her over the last few years it was so special to watch her shine and portray her own version of this special character, so well. She was strong, yet meek, funny, yet vulnerable and her emotions showed her excitement for this opportunity to show her abilities. It was a great introduction to me to the role of Kitri.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/03/562.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/03/s_562.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' align='left' style='margin:5px'></a><br /><br /><br />The men were so impressive all night. From the leads, principal Seth Orza as Basilio, and Batkhurel Bold as Espada with their strong, testosterone filled jumps and cape whipping, to their soft and doting support of their female leads, they were perfect mates. Bold and his beautiful Mercedes danced by the incomparable Carrie Imler were steamy every time they were on stage. So much chemistry and fierceness. The return of Rachel Foster was a sight for sore eyes, giving quick precise technique as Cupid, and the duo of Sarah Orza and Margaret Mullin as Paccilia & Juanita were fluid and gorgeous. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/03/550.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/03/s_550.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' align='left' style='margin:5px'></a><br /><br /><br /><br />The character roles were what had me in stitches. I had NO idea that this ballet was SO funny! My abs hurt the next day from the amount of laughing. PNB brought back award winning actor Tom Skerritt and Allen Galli in the roles of Don Q and Sancho and they showed so much range. For actors that are used to having words to help their craft they did a fabulous job. Skerritt showed brilliance as the mad Don who battles his demons and dreams of nymphs and monsters. Galli often stole scenes with his hilarious side man ballet interpretations and physical comedy. But who stole the entire show was Principal dancer Jonathan Porretta as Gamache. His level of sassy panache had our entire group in tears. The costume, the wig and the attitude served such over the top amazing comedy, it was perfect.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/03/551.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/03/s_551.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' align='left' style='margin:5px'></a><br /><br /><br /><br />The entire company, corps dancers and students all shined so brightly. There have been talks of this company having small numbers right now in their corps but I think it's quality over quantity. Peter Boal made smart casting choices and everyone was strong and impressive. I would much rather watch a small stronger corps rather than a larger average group of dancers.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/03/552.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/03/s_552.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='186' align='left' style='margin:5px'></a><br /><br /><br /><br />This is the last weekend to catch this gorgeous production, get your tickets at www.pnb.org and get your cheap trip to Barcelona for a magical evening filled with laughter and gorgeous dancing. ❤️ *photos by Angela Sterling <br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Thee Ultimate Patronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04267208779673543787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080647157043820252.post-796803570790909322015-01-30T18:44:00.001-08:002015-01-30T18:44:08.789-08:00Photo of the DayHomegrown - Turkey + bacon + avocado + cheddar on a French baguette <br /><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/30/471.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/30/s_471.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='193' align='left' style='margin:5px'></a><br /><br />Thee Ultimate Patronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04267208779673543787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080647157043820252.post-39868712870837114722015-01-30T18:29:00.001-08:002015-01-30T18:34:48.923-08:00Crow - fierce & fancy Lower Queen Anne gem<br /><br /><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/30/469.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/30/s_469.jpg' border='0' width='100' height='100' align='left' style='margin:5px'></a><br /><br /><br />Crow<br />823 5th Ave. N. <br />Seattle<br />www.eatatcrow.com<br />Reservations encouraged <br /><br />We went to a Crow for the first time on a sunny warm afternoon. Had reservations (grateful we opted to do that as they filled up quickly and turned lots of people away)! We were seated at a window spot, with their large windows open it made for a lovely seat! This restaurant has a revolving and changing menu, so. Check their website to see what is in season before you go.<br /><br />So pleased with the service, not too hipster or snooty but just cool enough to give you space and privacy whilst keeping the customer happy.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/30/470.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/30/s_470.jpg' border='0' width='500' height='500' align='left' style='margin:5px'></a><br /><br /><br />We started with the curried mussels, which were so amazing. Served with two crustini's they were perfectly seasoned and a great portion, and left us excited for the next course.<br /><br />Next was the Green a Goddess salad. It had lovely Buttercrisp lettuce and watermelon radishes and was tossed with the goddess dressing. Soft, fresh and the perfect amount of flavor.<br /><br />For our main course I had the NY strip steak. It was cooked perfectly and topped with a rich amazing horseradish chive compound butter. Laid on a bed of grilled asparagus and roasted potatoes, I let the butter melt over it all, it was pretty perfect. <br /><br />We finished off the delicious meal with the chocolate truffle cake with candied coconut and homemade amaretto ice cream. I swooned and may have lost consciousness while eating it lol. The ice cream was creamy and sweet and made the perfect pairing with the rich truffle cake. <br /><br />Our meal was spectacular. Don't let the prices scare you away, it's a bit pricier than average in that area because the food is better than average, plain and simple, you get what you pay for with this establishment. The drinks are strong, and they have an extensive wine selection. Only rule: be sure to make a reservation!!<br /><br /><br />Thee Ultimate Patronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04267208779673543787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080647157043820252.post-80676279990689471522014-11-14T09:49:00.003-08:002014-11-14T10:28:31.352-08:00The Choice of the Director Proves to be Brilliant<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Pacific Northwest Ballet's<br />
DIRECTOR'S CHOICE<br />
Artistic Director: Peter Boal<br />
Nov 7-16<br />
McCaw Hall<br />
Seattle<br />
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The Director's Choice is exactly what the title states - the choice of the director. They are pieces of art, collected in the travels and experiences of the director of said ballet, that he/she would like to bring to his company and patrons. To share the work of said Choreographers and that they think would bring a richness to their company and season.<br />
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I love this rep for this reason. It really shows you how the Artistic Director's brain works, even if its just for a split second - because we all know the rest of the time they are the hardest people in the ballet to figure out ha! It shows you what inspires them, what speaks to them and what they believe in.<br />
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With my daughter as a young adult in the PD Division now - I regretfully don't find myself waiting long hours at the ballet any more for pick ups and drop offs...and as sarcastic as 80% of that was - part of me does miss it - because its how I would catch glimpses of the upcoming reps, hear the music from new pieces, hear the rumblings of what new artists and choreographers people were talking about that day. So that when I did see the rep - I knew what was coming. I don't like to be surprised, forever the cynic always assuming surprises will be bad.<br />
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<b>However this was one of those good surprises.</b><br />
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<b>Kisses</b>. I had seen <b>David Dawson's</b> <b><i>A Million Kisses to my Skin</i></b> a few times before. Its always taken my breath away. But each time I see it I find something new in it. This time it was ALL LEGS. SO many long gorgeous dancers in this piece. The watery flow of literally EVERY SINGLE female dancer <i><b>(Lesley Rausch, Lindsi Dec, Elle Macy, Sarah Orza, Sarah Pasch & Margaret Mullin)</b></i> was oozing with lovely. Newly promoted <i><b>Jerome Tisserand</b></i> really stood out as such a graceful and supportive male to me, he has really risen up with his promotion. Such a joy to watch. Its funny but my most favorite moment watching this piece this time around, was a small detail...during a quiet moment with all 6 women on stage, between the notes of the orchestra and between their movements - you could hear the women breathing. Its was a detail that some of us take for granted but I felt added a moment of realness to the whole thing.<br />
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<i><b>Before After</b></i>. I had only seen this done one other time...and I was dreading seeing it again - only because the original time I saw it danced it was danced by the choreographer herself, the incomparable <i><b>Annabelle Lopez Ochoa</b></i> with one of my favorite male dancers ever, <b><i>Lucien Postelwaite</i>.</b> I am friends with the dancer I was about to see perform it -<i> <b>Angelica Generosa</b>,</i> but wasn't familiar in the least bit with her male counterpart,<i><b> Raphael Bouchard.</b></i> I am not the type of friend to sugar coat anything but will just refrain from saying anything. That said....ANGELICA WAS FIERCE. She did Annabelle and her work so proud. She had a level of power and clean movement that made her little frame fill the stage. As for her partner, this was my first time seeing him in a lead modern role. He was STUNNING in this choreography. I literally leaned over to my daughter and whispered "OMG WHO IS THIS PERSON!?". He was strong, fierce and they complimented each other so well, so much chemistry and beauty in both of them. <br />
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<b>---Intermission--</b>- I am noting this break because of what is to come next. I walked into the lobby and the ever chatty patrons that were sitting behind me in the theater - were sipping coffee near me and I overheard their conversation about the next piece we were about to see,<i><b> Rassemblement</b></i>. "Its boring. You probably won't like it. I think its weird..." So immediately I was intrigued. Pulled out my program and realized I not only had never seen it before but I was only vaguely familiar with <i><b>Nacho Duato's</b></i> work. I literally had NOTHING to draw on as to what I was expecting. No music peeks. No costume visuals. Read the casting as the lights were going down...<br />
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<b>Rassemblement. </b><br />
<b>English translation definition: gathering, unity, parade, rally.</b><br />
This piece BLEW MY MIND. SO many amazing images and words flew into my head - as having NOT read the program notes and not knowing what it was about - I listened to my own experience. <b>Struggle, Freedom, Mysticism, Folklore, Primal Instincts, Raw Beauty and most of all, Power. </b> ALL of the dancers literally left their hearts on the floor in this piece. The women literally took me to "clutch my pearls" with a gasp: <i><b>Carrie Imler</b></i>, such precision and power, almost gut wrenching at some moments. <i><b>Elle Macy</b></i> - SO much energy and at times seemed to forget we were there she danced with such abandonment. <i><b>Jahna Frantziskonis</b></i> - SO much movement and space filling for the smallest of the women. So many moments she seemed taller than any of them from how she was flexing and feeling all the way through her fingertips. And finally but not lastly -<i><b> Leah Merchant</b></i> - She was electric, her legs seemed to go forever. The men were all so powerful and primal but<i><b> Jonathan Porretta </b></i>and<i><b> Jerome Tisserand </b></i>really stood out - they resonated a level of strength mixed with exotic. Even the two male small parts - were so powerful because of the moment in time they represented - restraining and what seemed to emulate beating of Jerome by <i><b>Charles McCall</b> </i>and <i><b>Dylan Wald</b></i> - made me hold my breathe. The entire piece has my mind racing again today. So so great and dare I say the best part of the entire rep. At the intermission I so badly wanted to find the woman I had overheard talking about their piece being boring and weird and pick her brain as to why she thought so. But alas I know that all art is subjective and not everything appeals to everyone.<br />
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<i><b>Debonair. </b></i> There had been a lot of talk regarding <i><b>NYC Ballet's Justin Peck's</b></i> choreography for PNB - that was premiered just a few weeks before at the famed Joyce Theater in New York City. I had seen clips from rehearsal, heard some background and I was ready. The piece was gorgeous. Long lines, a lovely contemporary ballet that is quick footed but at the same time rich and juicy with movement. The costume on <i><b>Lindsi Dec</b></i> had me mesmerized. The skirt, combined with her legs for days, made her already fluid watery movements seem as she was melting into transitions. All of the dancers seemed to weave in and out of each other seamlessly - melting into one another. <i><b>Margaret Mullin</b></i> was like a little burst of amazing - her energy was steeped into her movements, it was contagious. <i><b>Sarah Orza</b></i> and <i><b>Chelsea Adomaitis</b></i> also stood out as super gooey and lovely in Peck's rapid but graceful choreography. It was truly a gift to watch.<br />
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<b>Artistic Director Peter Boal</b> has really given the patrons a gift in this rep. 4 pieces of contemporary genius. He gives you an eclectic and balanced foodie dance plate that will leave you not wanting for more when the curtain goes down - except to maybe see it again. 3 more shows remain - tonight, tomorrow and Sunday. Get your tickets at <a href="http://www.pnb.org/" target="_blank">http://www.pnb.org </a>Thee Ultimate Patronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04267208779673543787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080647157043820252.post-42538182525413212022014-09-22T09:32:00.001-07:002014-09-22T09:32:22.277-07:00The Ballerina Supremacy - Le Rêve<br /><br />
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The beautiful new video from The Ballerina Supremacy - filmed in downtown Seattle and inspired by the choreography of Annabelle Lopez Ochoa. Featuring PNB Apprentice Dylan Wald and PNB PD student Madison Abeo. Enjoy and more reviews coming soon!<br /><br />
<br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/nHBmQOshUK8" width="480"></iframe>Thee Ultimate Patronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04267208779673543787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080647157043820252.post-41683359551288155272014-04-17T19:11:00.001-07:002014-04-17T19:11:05.338-07:00Photo of the Day: lemon vodka iced tea<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoYjygrH6nl9RyuNvDaV-B-30o-vNX8pb5CS_mSGzK6YU2Rr-8NAFafsZBtPYjPEj2ZtB2PzcW-drKjvoIqC6P7byM7OieSFKZH_kqJX5jgBhGp0S8IgCif_fsBEui-wxAexVcMcNakf0g/s640/blogger-image-1696908152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoYjygrH6nl9RyuNvDaV-B-30o-vNX8pb5CS_mSGzK6YU2Rr-8NAFafsZBtPYjPEj2ZtB2PzcW-drKjvoIqC6P7byM7OieSFKZH_kqJX5jgBhGp0S8IgCif_fsBEui-wxAexVcMcNakf0g/s640/blogger-image-1696908152.jpg"></a></div>Thee Ultimate Patronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04267208779673543787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080647157043820252.post-20724682563466397652014-04-17T11:46:00.001-07:002014-04-17T11:46:58.042-07:00Tallulah's Seattle - Linda has done it again!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyCRdgT_UhoWskFZf_TE7ti9fzQiXJCKIEBpjIKAw5fV3C5ew5t-zc5iP05bWpTqod9VGFyobONa5SKvQ0HwJ3opE1iiuWP_UOyU9BkLjtXvypzOjMKv7hzIEdrYENj6gWV3pDcTLugisL/s1600/tl-horizontal_main.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyCRdgT_UhoWskFZf_TE7ti9fzQiXJCKIEBpjIKAw5fV3C5ew5t-zc5iP05bWpTqod9VGFyobONa5SKvQ0HwJ3opE1iiuWP_UOyU9BkLjtXvypzOjMKv7hzIEdrYENj6gWV3pDcTLugisL/s1600/tl-horizontal_main.jpg" height="217" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Tallulah's </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">550 19th Ave. E.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Seattle (Capitol Hill)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://aneighborhoodcafe.com/" target="_blank">http://aneighborhoodcafe.com/</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Anyone who knows me knows I have a deep love affair with Brunch. Brunch is my sinfully rich, drippy sauce, keep the coffee cup full version of a hot pool boy. I find any and all reasons to host people at my home for Brunch and literally dance a jig at an opportunity to try the brunch menu at a new restaurant. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">When our long time friend <a href="http://www.chasejarvis.com/" target="_blank">Chase Jarvis</a> invited us out to Tallulah's - he had me at "brunch". He then explained that it was a joint venture between himself, his amazing wife Kate, and Seattle restaurant entrepreneur and "odd fellow" - Linda Derschang. Being a fan of Linda's knack for creating the perfect dive bar, (which hers all seem to be Seattle staples) and having a special place in my heart for the BLTA and Benedict from her popular cafe - Oddfellows, I was in..WAY IN. Well that and having the urgent need to fill my vampiric like thirst for hollandaise and bloody marys, I found the nearest free moment on our calendar. </span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My husband Ryan (RA Scion) and Chase Jarvis</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Tucked away on 19th, in one of the still quaint areas of the ever changing and updating Capitol Hill - Tallulah's has a prime location among other foodie hipster heavy hitters like King Fish and Monsoon - and with its large outdoor windows and patio like vibe - adds a much needed rustic but hip feel to that part of the hill. Its got the feel of - yes we are cool but not trying to prove it to you, if that makes sense. They were full to the brim - with a small line of people waiting - and though he is part of the restaurant creative team Jarvis explained "We have to wait like everyone else, but that's okay!" but the crew with smiles and gracious greetings - made our very short wait bearable. Lead to a bright table literally in the center of the restaurant amidst such a variety of clientele, it was a nice change from the sometimes exclusive hipster vibe that some of the foodie spots on the hill tend to give.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Our waiter was a sweet man who brought us water and coffee and temped us with brunch type libations - to which I was tempted but stuck with coffee to nurse the over indulging from the night before. I had read reviews about this place being a big loud and busy - but considering my little hangover, I didn't find it distracting or too loud. It was bustling, just enough to make you excited to be there. </span></span></div>
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Chase told us what he recommended from the short but variety
filled menu. I tend to get overwhelmed with too many options, but I do
admit there could have been a few more choices on the menu. We ordered a sticky bun to
share while waiting for our food. It was the kind of pastry that when
you go to cut it with your fork, the side of it almost crushes it
to the plate because its so soft and the gooey goodness gets stuck to
the plate. Perfect little bite to prepare for what was to
come.</div>
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I ordered the Eggs Benedict because its one of the dishes I cannot resist trying at a new place that I think will rise to the occasion. The perfectly poached eggs were served on toasted Brioche - which was a nice change from the normal english muffin, a generous slice of virginia ham and the hollandaise was fresh, rich and well made. Coupled with roasted potatoes - I was a happy girl, literally savoring each bite like a kid at dessert.</div>
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My husband ordered the Flatbread with sunny side up egg, Bechamel and
Raclette and Chase ordered the GIGANTIC Lemon Ricotta pancake. Though I
didn't taste either, they looked amazing and both men were pleased, happy and full. The size of the pancake was so ginormous it could easily be shared between a few people. <br />
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SO pleased with our meal, the service and the atmosphere. Excited for
warmer weather - as Chase explained all the window lined walls open up
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and the dining room turns into a patio. Much like the now gone Broadway Grill did - but with MUCH more space and better and more quaint view. Linda's little touches - from the music, the family type vibe amongst the staff, the unassuming but cool decor (including a record player - which Ryan immediately inquired if it was operational and then offered to spin live music there during the summer - something that would be amazing if it ever comes to fruition) - she really makes it a lovely experience and one I cannot wait to have again. Looking forward to trying dinner as soon as possible.<br />
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RATING: ***** 5 stars - a MUST <br />
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Thee Ultimate Patronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04267208779673543787noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080647157043820252.post-23082383608805507782014-01-28T16:04:00.000-08:002014-01-28T16:05:04.924-08:00How to see The Royal Ballet's Giselle in Covent Garden (almost) LIVE - via a movie theater in Northgate for $15<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">GISELLE</span></div>
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Royal Opera Ballet</div>
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1/27/14 </div>
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Covent Gardens via </div>
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The story of Giselle. Hands down one of my favorite ballets of all time. The innocent village girl Giselle, who falls in love with the deceptive Albrecht - who is a young nobleman disguised as a peasant. The ballet itself drips with the pain of heartache and the beauty of forgiveness. It was my first time experiencing not only the Royal Ballet - but the breathtaking talent and emotions of <b>Natalia Osipova.</b></div>
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Partnering with the legendary Carlos Acosta - Natalia, 3 months new to the Royal Ballet - clearly stole the show. </div>
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Her emotions we powerful and raw, coupled with technique that blew the mind of everyone in the audience, both live and in the theater I was in. Just when you think she touched the ceiling of her abilities, she would reach a new height 5 minutes later.</div>
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The event was the ROH LIVE Cinema series. A former dance teacher of my daughters (who is a 17 yr old dancer at the Pacific Northwest Ballet School) messaged me earlier in the day asking if we were going. Knowing nothing of the viewing or the series - I quickly did research and was delighted to find that its a monthly event, all over the country! The viewing isn't LIVE, its preempted so we could see it at a decent hour, if that makes sense - but its from the day of the show. Such a lovely experience, with an intermission (complete with a static camera shot in the audience) and interviews with the choreographer and artistic director. At one point even showed a candid of audience members sneaking a snack (obviously not allowed) and dropping their candy ha! Was pretty humorous! </div>
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Back to the dancing. As I said, I attended with my daughter who is a dancer, and ended up sitting next to another former teacher, arguably one of the most respected teachers in Seattle and a former member of the Martha Graham company, dancing with Graham herself, so the exclamations and gasps were from fellow dancers, which is how I (being a NON dancer) knew they were valid :) </div>
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Natalia Osipova is a beast. Her ability to show strength, flawless technique while showing a level of emotion and frailty - had us all in tears and left us speechless. I often felt like her sheer will to push the limits of perfection was mesmerizing. The strength put into some of her turns and jumps and then land them like sinking into quick sand, quietly and fluidly. </div>
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It is clear the Royal Ballet is filled with amazing talent, but they all faded into the abyss with the Wilis it seemed, as Osipova danced circles around our hearts and our brains. </div>
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I often have questions for my daughter when we see shows such as these - as far as what I think seemed "Amazing" to what she says actually WAS amazing - based on the art of ballet and what is more difficult to do etc. The following variation from Act I made my daughter jump to the edge of her seat, gasp and cover her mouth with shock and awe. "Mom, what she just did there, is hard to do for anyone, and to make it look as easy and beautiful as she just did, is near impossible!" :</div>
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<a href="http://youtu.be/q-vJmwK0M5k" target="_blank">http://youtu.be/q-vJmwK0M5k </a></div>
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Not enough words can be said about Natalia's level of emotion that at times was almost palatable. She had played this role before with the Bolshoi ballet, so the experience was there. Her seasoned experience was mixed with small pieces of her own heart that she was cutting out and leaving all over the stage there in Covent Garden. </div>
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A huge success for Kevin O'Hare and his company and a great new event on our calendar now thanks to the Royal Opera House! </div>
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Such a great idea and wonderful opportunity for lovers of dance - that is clearly not promoted well and or underutilized. There were less 30 people in the theater and I could name about 20 who would have come to something like this in a heart beat. Lets change that - because their schedule for upcoming premiers is gigantic: I was SO excited to mark my calendar for April 28th - when they PREMIER the full length of The Winter's Tale by Christopher Wheeldon at the Live Cinema. Visit the website to see what else is coming up as well as to sign up for their text updates. </div>
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<a href="http://www.roh.org.uk/cinemas" target="_blank">http://www.roh.org.uk/cinemas</a></div>
Thee Ultimate Patronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04267208779673543787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080647157043820252.post-42629640364158980842014-01-10T11:43:00.001-08:002014-01-10T11:43:13.086-08:00The Crash Reel - Its not how many times you fall, but how many times you get back up...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>The Crash Reel</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Release: December 13, 2013</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Documentary</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Director: Lucy Walker </div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Ever
see a new Documentary on HBO before bed and think, 'oh its not too long,
I am just going to watch it'? Next thing its 2am and I am lying in bed, with a tear-stained face, not able to get Kevin Pearce or his family, out of my head. I am not a Snowboarder but I am a fan of snow sports in general, grew up skiing and hanging out with people that were considered dare devils, that built and went off huge
jumps, hiked into back country and even a few that dared to jump small cliffs. Though I never did those things, I was an avid snow skier and I GET what that speed and sport does to people, the feeling you get and the need to do it over and over. Like a part of your life vein, it becomes a part of your survival you love it so much </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3,"tn":"K"}"><span class="userContent"> <span style="font-weight: normal;">This movie is the story of</span> <span style="font-weight: normal;"><a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=137417442985943&extragetparams=%7B%22directed_target_id%22%3A0%7D" href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kevin-Pearce/137417442985943">Kevin Pearce</a>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9m4__87JQmgsflh0P-mUfsAgRvQrWxWXLEYyuSaiT7D2Ue_fWFD8QE5Dt9lVf62fDtN8x7zj-Fbzd1VWjvUUE3sIdUrlSfingoqqZ0zZ_3Rxl_6OgjeRS2Oa0ApeJ-fhlBKcW7TfOf9iO/s1600/crash-reel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9m4__87JQmgsflh0P-mUfsAgRvQrWxWXLEYyuSaiT7D2Ue_fWFD8QE5Dt9lVf62fDtN8x7zj-Fbzd1VWjvUUE3sIdUrlSfingoqqZ0zZ_3Rxl_6OgjeRS2Oa0ApeJ-fhlBKcW7TfOf9iO/s1600/crash-reel.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
2010 Olympic hopeful - literally winning competitions over Shaun
White and his other fellow competitors. At 17 he was the dark horse that came out of nowhere, the amazing young talent that was shocking everyone. As him and his friends were preparing for the Olympics, they took video of their training process, and you see tons of the video footage in this movie. </span></span></span></span></span></h5>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3,"tn":"K"}"><span class="userContent"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> Which
is why they were able to catch his tragic boarding crash on December
31st, 2009 - that injured his brain - on camera. This
documentary follows the sport and how the bar is consistently
raised in difficulty and the risk that is involved in a sport that
creates such a shock value in the media - which honestly, was the part
of the movie that I expected...</span></span></span></span></span></h5>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3,"tn":"K"}"><span class="userContent"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9HQtvDf6D5xPEw4wPUw18zwZp6l-cRhONLPQXLvKSSItpJ_wrxTiDEiwkroXrDeqLBXtY-9alCtAKw6NR9P5DqSlTJZxcG76ZMiqAKcs423b3YD_So3Qulm108_XaseqGAqtu649rjnij/s1600/696c6706-884a-43bf-8343-ef43b97c364b.img.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9HQtvDf6D5xPEw4wPUw18zwZp6l-cRhONLPQXLvKSSItpJ_wrxTiDEiwkroXrDeqLBXtY-9alCtAKw6NR9P5DqSlTJZxcG76ZMiqAKcs423b3YD_So3Qulm108_XaseqGAqtu649rjnij/s1600/696c6706-884a-43bf-8343-ef43b97c364b.img.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></h5>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3,"tn":"K"}"><span class="userContent"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></span></span></span></span></h5>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3,"tn":"K"}"><span class="userContent"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></span></span></span></span></h5>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3,"tn":"K"}"><span class="userContent"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></span></span></span></span></h5>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3,"tn":"K"}"><span class="userContent"><span style="font-weight: normal;">What
I didn't expect, was to fall in love with the
Pearce family as a whole, the way I did. Kevin's amazing parents, Simon
and Pia - were just what we all hope to become as parents. The grace
in which they handled this event that rocked their
foundation...lovingly, at his side every second. They are glue that
holds the Pearce family together, with an amazing combination of
unconditional love, support, spirituality and kind realism. </span></span></span></span></span></h5>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3,"tn":"K"}"><span class="userContent"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidwHFlxkUHGIV_-8H7YmKbxvxU9hQdBwEtSCrHSRV2rKLByjbHGKR-qX1Jav9wPTAUw81Bu1NmUQDDtKSK3NfEdw04cLKQDXRl8Ak4d2c7OoAqzSYX8trDf73EnsQAWDdq6oq78MzDF2o9/s1600/crash-reel-family.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidwHFlxkUHGIV_-8H7YmKbxvxU9hQdBwEtSCrHSRV2rKLByjbHGKR-qX1Jav9wPTAUw81Bu1NmUQDDtKSK3NfEdw04cLKQDXRl8Ak4d2c7OoAqzSYX8trDf73EnsQAWDdq6oq78MzDF2o9/s1600/crash-reel-family.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
</span></span></span></span></span></h5>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3,"tn":"K"}"><span class="userContent"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwqv-B6vXUWyzkVVLdVu9-GHFJIQ-bZk9-87yzPPaXW-nwLO8-eateBD1iD7XReF8cq448uzP-RaPtK9G681VCrywZocz4h5ZiOn5jsZD0UWgEMP7Jpz0nMaZnnVH7KKSeW1-5zjVsHplr/s1600/457541962_640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwqv-B6vXUWyzkVVLdVu9-GHFJIQ-bZk9-87yzPPaXW-nwLO8-eateBD1iD7XReF8cq448uzP-RaPtK9G681VCrywZocz4h5ZiOn5jsZD0UWgEMP7Jpz0nMaZnnVH7KKSeW1-5zjVsHplr/s1600/457541962_640.jpg" height="178" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3,"tn":"K"}"><span class="userContent"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Who truly reached in and touched my heart were his brothers, David, Andrew and Adam, who made me weep with
their tireless worry and support for their brother. David, who has Down Syndrome, spoke with SUCH maturity and wisdom when he would speak about both his disability and his sadness about his brothers injury. Adam was in almost every hospital scene you saw, by his side in the recovery process. At one point in the movie there is a family meeting about the fact that Kevin wanted nothing more than to get back on his snowboard and compete again. The agony and pain on the family members faces and the tears and words that they use to express their feelings to him, is truly heart wrenching. I found the way they juggled kindness and patience with sharing their pain and worry for Kevin, both inspiring and astounding.</span></span></span></span></span></h5>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRs0ztQGOS-WdxuHPPtjYsf5HfG_NUrQPsmI8VQwPR0zcGx1goH6tR-ql3zliqpPZC0Iyzv2n2WiKRx_LxfMkU_W34kp0f2YojB4CEpm6WiDiVqk5THfzq_IRsWiy1GX8v_7nUNKICN8zi/s1600/Screen-shot-2013-07-19-at-6.32.29-PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRs0ztQGOS-WdxuHPPtjYsf5HfG_NUrQPsmI8VQwPR0zcGx1goH6tR-ql3zliqpPZC0Iyzv2n2WiKRx_LxfMkU_W34kp0f2YojB4CEpm6WiDiVqk5THfzq_IRsWiy1GX8v_7nUNKICN8zi/s1600/Screen-shot-2013-07-19-at-6.32.29-PM.png" height="199" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3,"tn":"K"}"><span class="userContent"><span style="font-weight: normal;">The movie was
released last month and is on HBO right now. Even if you aren't a fan
of snowboarding, its really not about that - its about the human spirit
and the struggle between knowing what is safe and respecting our family
and our need to do what inspires us and what takes our souls to that
place that no words can understand. </span></span></span></span></span></h5>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3,"tn":"K"}"><span class="userContent"><span style="font-weight: normal;">RATING: ***** 5 stars. SEE THIS MOVIE<br /> </span></span></span></span></span></h5>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3,"tn":"K"}"><span class="userContent"><br /> </span></span></span></span></h5>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/Sj0vY2Nymqw?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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Thee Ultimate Patronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04267208779673543787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080647157043820252.post-54402992991251436602013-01-16T08:10:00.001-08:002013-01-16T08:13:33.828-08:00Romeo et Juliette - my breath was taken over and over...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcYZ1bwSSp20wUU225lJvkJjTbemxQMYh35Sam2R9_DyRTjBBJ-2f2aFVR4roGF881ITtP4s3v-BKpHpuoSyWAFL2Cg7_rTQTm6vmLaJDN4qBk-DMbWhD_9q7SVIH4brrc3UUGmun3Z_ZU/s1600-h/JCRJ08-0828.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401188611084016274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcYZ1bwSSp20wUU225lJvkJjTbemxQMYh35Sam2R9_DyRTjBBJ-2f2aFVR4roGF881ITtP4s3v-BKpHpuoSyWAFL2Cg7_rTQTm6vmLaJDN4qBk-DMbWhD_9q7SVIH4brrc3UUGmun3Z_ZU/s320/JCRJ08-0828.jpg" style="float: left; height: 320px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 251px;" /></a><span style="font-size: 130%;"> <i>** I am re-posting this review - Pacific Northwest Ballet is opening this ballet on February 1-10th, 2013, then taking it to the NYC Ballet on the 15th and 16th! Do NOT miss your chance to see one of the most beautiful versions of this classic and timeless love story! Click here for tickets: <a href="http://www.pnb.org/Season/12-13/RomeoetJuliette/" target="_blank">http://www.pnb.org/Season/12-13/RomeoetJuliette/ </a>**</i></span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Romeo et Juliette</span></b><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Pacific Northwest Ballet</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Choreographer: Jean-Christophe Maillot</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: small;">*This ori<span style="font-size: small;">ginal review was written <span style="font-size: small;">in 2009*</span></span></span></span></span><span id="formatbar_Buttons" style="display: block;"><span class="on down" id="formatbar_Italic" onmousedown="CheckFormatting(event);FormatbarButton('richeditorframe', this, 4);ButtonMouseDown(this);" onmouseout="ButtonHoverOff(this);" onmouseover="ButtonHoverOn(this);" onmouseup="" style="display: block;" title="Italic"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></span></span><span class="on down" id="formatbar_Italic" onmousedown="CheckFormatting(event);FormatbarButton('richeditorframe', this, 4);ButtonMouseDown(this);" onmouseout="ButtonHoverOff(this);" onmouseover="ButtonHoverOn(this);" onmouseup="" style="display: block;" title="Italic"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></span></span><span class="on down" id="formatbar_Italic" onmousedown="CheckFormatting(event);FormatbarButton('richeditorframe', this, 4);ButtonMouseDown(this);" onmouseout="ButtonHoverOff(this);" onmouseover="ButtonHoverOn(this);" onmouseup="" style="display: block;" title="Italic"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></span></span><br />I know I usually write about movies - but this is also visual entertainment, so I classify the same, well actually BETTER and more satisfying.<br /><br />After seeing commercials on TV and reading a few reviews, I had decided I had to see this show.<br /><br />Peter Boal has took over as Artistic Director of Pacific Northwest Ballet, almost 5 years ago - and since then, has taken a new and brilliant turn with the choice of productions and shows each year.<br /><br />When I got the tickets, I was preparing myself for the classic, old fashioned Shakespeare set and vision - too many frills, too much everything - but that is the beauty of the classics. This however was MUCH different than expected.<br /><br />Different, beautifully poetic, modern, minimalistic and simply breathtaking. First of all the sets - large shapes - all straight angels and clean lines. Linens draped on the sets and used for costumes - they were just perfect. It was just appealing enough to the eyes to remember, but subtle enough for you to really focus on the artistry.<br /><br />First off the Choreography -- Maillot's vision was clear - beautiful lines, smooth transitions but also strong and gut wrenching moments that are severe and gorgeous. Every muscle movement was so intentional and used every ounce of energy the dancer had.<br /><br />The dancers. Peter Boal has a company of 48 amazing artists. The people chosen for this show were phenomenal, each in their own right. First of all - the two main parts.<br /><br />Juliette was played by Brazilian born <span style="font-weight: bold;">Carla Korbes</span>. This was her first time in the role of Juliette and I must say she literally became the character. She gave so much of herself and really dedicated herself to the story. I felt her pain, I cried her tears and I felt her joyful and undeniable love. She showed the wonderful coy, playful and naughty side of Juliette - and really had fun with it.</span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh50SzFVqAwJkKhK4GZNiXVeHE3J3ox9pXYC1IV3TINgskjytf3Qjux06GZB2licXQJu-jQ71DMF9_F896dDs2buDY4ftrGS5lfCTTeVMptHaS1qiLiYs81QzNG0DfVG6DujeyinNY6q-a9/s1600-h/untitled.bmp" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401195878238876546" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh50SzFVqAwJkKhK4GZNiXVeHE3J3ox9pXYC1IV3TINgskjytf3Qjux06GZB2licXQJu-jQ71DMF9_F896dDs2buDY4ftrGS5lfCTTeVMptHaS1qiLiYs81QzNG0DfVG6DujeyinNY6q-a9/s320/untitled.bmp" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 320px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 213px;" /></a>Her ability and artistry were superb. She was strong, yet soft - fluid yet severe when needed. The art of dance is so special when it is done right, and its radiated rather than performed. Carla truly radiated the amazing attributes that Shakespeare himself envisioned his Juliette to be.<br />
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On to Romeo. Romeo was played by veteran <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Lucien Postlewaite</span> - was Romeo in the last PNB production of this piece 2 years ago. We were lucky enough to be part of a Q & A session with both dancers after the show - and Lucien was asked the difference between this time and last time for him. He said the first time he was very busy worrying about making Romeo "his own". He said this year he really got a chance to give himself to the story and choreography and be who he was needed to be.<br />
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It was very clear on stage. My 13 year old (who is a dancer at the PNB school) while watching the "love" scene when they first kiss and really "devour" each other. She said "Wow mom, they really seem like they LOVE each other. Its so believable you almost feel like you are watching something that is just meant for the two of them...". I agreed with her observation. It was never Uncomfortable. Rather it was so intimate and tender - small gentle touches, radiated such love and unconditional bliss. It literally made me miss my husband and want to go home and feel the same way!<br />
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Lucien is a gentle but ripped power house that brought such chivalry and strength to this role. I have often seen the role in the past as one of an impulsive and boyish lover who made bad choices. On the contrary - Lucien gave reason and meaning in every movement and made you quiver every time he touched Juliette's skin. The additional opportunity to play this part I think was beneficial in the depth of the character. He truly danced with his heart and let every person in the audience see and feel what true love should look like.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDCqENZy2csDWb6ynlBZWC9JfFRo6sNxvjpsXlTrT37vQDKz2ctIh0LEIPpno2IhM9bZzuvhFxnNTVeCj7JZ5kvCvJsklepFAR8AZKiXcB8pkFUJsHomTsrmqwHGgCsax7D1EZHC-XJ-fu/s1600-h/2009943314.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401198967385272082" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDCqENZy2csDWb6ynlBZWC9JfFRo6sNxvjpsXlTrT37vQDKz2ctIh0LEIPpno2IhM9bZzuvhFxnNTVeCj7JZ5kvCvJsklepFAR8AZKiXcB8pkFUJsHomTsrmqwHGgCsax7D1EZHC-XJ-fu/s320/2009943314.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 320px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 251px;" /></a>Other amazing dancers that I must make note of. (*Please note that there were two casts for several parts, so I can only speak on the cast I saw - but I am sure the other dancers were just as amazing!)<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Carrie Imler</span> - played Juliette's Nurse. I adored her portrayal. Playful yet so loving and sisterly to Juliette. Her playfulness with Romeo and the men was also hilarious. She is incredible animated and played the part with a joyful beauty that was evident throughout the theater. I could tell by her lines that she is an amazing dancer and I wish I could have seen more of her in this production.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Arianna Lallone - Lady Capulet.</span> She was stunning, brutal, cold but passionate at the same time. SO regal and SO intense. The scene where both friends die - she has this amazing modern mourning solo that is just riveting. Gut wrenching and raw, she showed us the epitome of pain and heartache. It was impossible to stay dry eyed through the solo. At one point my daughter whispered to me "She reminds me of old videos of Martha Graham the way she is dressed and her dancing style". I again, concurred - it was severe and gorgeous.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Karel Cruz - Friar Laurence</span>. Karel as the thread throughout the story, and as the guide to all the other characters - was amazing. As one of the tallest (if not the tallest) dancers in the company - the mostly modern choreography for his character was paired with severe and dark costumes that really showed his lines. He portrayed an amazing internal struggle and showed so much power in his movements. Again reminding us of old Graham dancers - his lines of sorrow and anger were especially amazing.<br />
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There isn't much more to be said about this show that hasn't already been said. I am sad to say, this show is no longer showing at McCaw Hall. HOWEVER - <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">"Directors Choice" </span>did just open - featuring 4 beautiful vignettes showcasing a wonderful variety of tastes, talents and artistry within the company. I saw it tonight and will be writing a review for it VERY soon - so people will go and see it! I leave you with photos from the performance and rehearsals from this breathtaking show and ask you to keep your eye out for when Peter Boal decides to bless the NW with a rerun of this spectacular production.<br />
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Thee Ultimate Patronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04267208779673543787noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080647157043820252.post-74593967498969210032013-01-08T13:39:00.005-08:002013-01-08T13:40:57.594-08:00Sexy Baby - Sobering Reality of Today's Sexual Landscape<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhkfUiqxjqfICMpAqBfDSmNmfGiq2LFK8bFUIiGL4u9DASfQjeLTFPvml38pmhkIVtmaIngCloU2sl0REVqUWKlhT0z3Q0a6ZXO9Wvq3dUfmqtV7YOgc4pssjPJHJFzwZmkhSwuE9KQ2NT/s1600/sexybaby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhkfUiqxjqfICMpAqBfDSmNmfGiq2LFK8bFUIiGL4u9DASfQjeLTFPvml38pmhkIVtmaIngCloU2sl0REVqUWKlhT0z3Q0a6ZXO9Wvq3dUfmqtV7YOgc4pssjPJHJFzwZmkhSwuE9KQ2NT/s320/sexybaby.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">SEXY BABY</span></b><br />
2012 <br />
Documentary<br />
Directed by: Jill Bauer, Ramona Gradus<br />
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I was searching documentaries on HBO on demand and found this title, and admit I was intrigued.<br />
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Sexy Baby follows three females, each at different points in their lives, from different background and social circles. Nothing in common besides the fact that they are female.<br />
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13 year old Winnifred. A progressive teen, with young hip parents, she is involved in social justice groups in her middle school, a talented gymnast and about to celebrate her Bat Mitzvah. The movie opens with her performing a poetry/spoken word performance at her school, with a troupe of others - breaking down the song Super Soak by Soljah Boy and highlights the degradation of women.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioUBAF2BK6FFsGIz3FbIRfwAEgCLDjiH7874a9Bv6pYrFrBpXoAe33aTCDVYh6jD_qE8opgE43_6ugfifGkrseO-yS1Uke-dylLWfUd2H2HnI_1OfK0i_39aBApOL0dOij4xKqAdFxzP5P/s1600/abc_sexy_baby_teens_thg_121018_wg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioUBAF2BK6FFsGIz3FbIRfwAEgCLDjiH7874a9Bv6pYrFrBpXoAe33aTCDVYh6jD_qE8opgE43_6ugfifGkrseO-yS1Uke-dylLWfUd2H2HnI_1OfK0i_39aBApOL0dOij4xKqAdFxzP5P/s320/abc_sexy_baby_teens_thg_121018_wg.jpg" width="320" /></a>Though her parents are separated, both are very active in her life and seem to have a great open communication with her about all things, including sex. For her 13th birthday, she is given tickets to Lady Gaga. The emotional moments of the celebration are shared, along with her mothers concerns about sending her to the Gaga concert with her friend. As much as she values what Gaga stands for in the "Monster" movement and individuality sense - she worries about the image with her lack of clothing and makeup that she promotes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyINUM_e9f2JFxRaBPjzCAf36iuODj69PUtV3IXdZ-jq0LAM_dKEUkUam0aIFbxVwLvAJjiSf90YeC0PZTkggLIMwDy7Ag-2LWOXkIjm0tHX4X7i8C0WIE_7c7ZiNSCX5yZ6y8mMwVVQ1-/s1600/laura.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyINUM_e9f2JFxRaBPjzCAf36iuODj69PUtV3IXdZ-jq0LAM_dKEUkUam0aIFbxVwLvAJjiSf90YeC0PZTkggLIMwDy7Ag-2LWOXkIjm0tHX4X7i8C0WIE_7c7ZiNSCX5yZ6y8mMwVVQ1-/s1600/laura.jpg" /></a></div>
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22 year old Laura. College student. Cheerleader. Gorgeous. Has come to the conclusion, that because of things past boyfriends have said, and because of the amount of porn available to almost anyone now a days - that she has an abnormally large labia and is embarrassed of it. She says she feels the need to compare herself to these "perfect" women in the porn movies and therefore, has decided to get labiaplasty. Words like "meat curtains" are something she just cant live with, and begins her consultations.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMuoITXibpRqRTWx8vv_P-Lg_I6pE4NIDPIOLXa4-dBdACp9mvz2H8_pd1SapYBGt2DyRmONTc4YXnhE1Avt2iOhQ-EYUYccFICyHyVX-bJ06jRcOyp0D1Txgw9kGDL_-YPQPw5twmZMXi/s1600/sexybaby2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMuoITXibpRqRTWx8vv_P-Lg_I6pE4NIDPIOLXa4-dBdACp9mvz2H8_pd1SapYBGt2DyRmONTc4YXnhE1Avt2iOhQ-EYUYccFICyHyVX-bJ06jRcOyp0D1Txgw9kGDL_-YPQPw5twmZMXi/s320/sexybaby2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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32 year old Nichole - former adult film star and stripper. Now retired,
married and trying to settle. Her and her husband are trying to have a
baby.<br />
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Her views on the industry, the accessibility and the damage it can be to young people - has totally done a 180 now that she is trying to start her own family. Her doctor tells her she may have problems getting pregnant because of her lifestyle choice before settling down. <br />
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The movie follows each person in their journey. Does a wonderful job following their progression and also getting to the root of each of their growing issues and problems. The history and shocking increase in the labiaplasty industry was the most shocking to me. I had NO idea this was an issue that has increased 70% into women between the ages of 18 and 29 getting the surgery in the last 5 years! The plastic surgeon likened most of it to the porn industry and the effect on society.<br />
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For me, having a daughter that is 16 - Winnie's story hit closest to home for me. So driven, so wise and witty for her age, such strong and out spoken parents...cant go wrong, right? Wrong. As they follow her, the problems start. Everything from sneaky video chats, to provocative photo shoots with her friends - to posting half naked photos on her Facebook. She is banned from FB by her parents 8 times before the end of the movie. Her language and communication with her parents changes pretty dramatically.<br />
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This is a great movie to watch with an older teenager. Male or Female. However the content is hardcore at times - so over 16 is my suggestion. This is such a serious topic and such a sensitive matter for most parents/teens - this movie hits it head on, with no bells or whistles. Just the facts and evidence from these 3 females lives.<br />
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Rating ***** - 5 stars. Excellent film - you will be thinking about it for days after watching it. Here is the trailer:<br />
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<br />Thee Ultimate Patronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04267208779673543787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080647157043820252.post-5165974513345046512013-01-08T11:03:00.001-08:002013-01-08T11:03:43.552-08:00New Video Cooking SegmentsOne of the reasons I started this blog, was because of my love for GOOD, HEARTY food - and appreciating the restaurants that you get what you pay for.<br />
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Being from a restaurant owning family - I am a cook myself and host dinner parties at least once a month. Its often I am asked for one of my recipes. I had a friend tell me once "If I could SEE you do it, i would understand how you make it...", and that gave me the idea of the videos. Even if just a few people watch them, if it helps someone make a delicious meal for their family and friends, then it was worth it.<br />
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Here is the most popular of the recipes I have posted. Its a family favorite and truly the dish that made my husband want to marry me (he admits it lol). Its called Ragu and its a savory pasta and pork dish, that will never disappoint. <br />
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<br />Thee Ultimate Patronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04267208779673543787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080647157043820252.post-1202023209436770332012-11-06T13:50:00.001-08:002012-11-06T13:51:09.508-08:00ALL Diverse and ALL Stunning - PNB's All Premiere<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">ALL PREMIERE</span><br />
Pacific Northwest Ballet<br />
November 2-11th, 2012<br />
McMcaw Hall, Seattle<br />
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Featuring Premier Pieces by:<br />
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Mark Morris, Kiyon Gaines, Margaret Mullin and Andrew Bartee<br />
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We attended All Premier opening night, which is fun in itself, its the night to see the who's who of ballet, to get all dressed to impress and hope you rub shoulders with someone fabulous - in addition to seeing the premiere pieces from a select few amazing choreographers of course.<br />
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The evening opened with the premiere of core member <b>Andrew Bartee's</b> piece, <i><b>Arms that Work</b></i>. The stage light<span style="font-size: small;">s</span> to show a marvelously crafted prop that spanned the length of the stage and almost looked like a harp but with bands for the dancers to work with and around. The two dancers out of the gate were <b>Kaori Nakamura</b> and <b>James Moore.</b> Both show true elasticity with Bartee's movements and embodied the soul given with the dance. The costumes were STUNNING. Nuetral tans, linens, modern shapes and designs. Easily could be in Spiegal's Spring catalogue. I found myself wanting the women's tops. This piece showed such a different path than what the New Works and All Premieres of the past have shown, I was so happy to see something refreshing, new and off the beaten path. Bravo to Peter Boal for taking a chance on something that was truly a risk. The dancers that stood out for me: <b>Carrie Imler</b> by far was the highlight of not only this piece but the evening for me<b> </b>(more on her later), <br />
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<b>Ezra Thomson</b> and new core member <b>Sarah Pasch</b> almost out did vets<b> James</b> and <b>Kaori </b>as far as seamless partnering and electric chemistry, and newest core member, <b>Angelica Generosa</b> was surprisingly wonderful as well! The only part of the piece that had me question and turn my head sideways like a pondering pooch, was the strange troll-like movements and lurking of <b>Jessica Anspach </b>on the sides - that would have been intriguing if done subtly and smooth but almost seemed a bit overacted and severe. I thought her brother Barret Anspach's music was gorgeous however lacked the intensity I thought it needed at certain parts of the piece. Overall we were not only impressed but so happy to be experiencing this art at PNB.<br />
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The next piece was company member <b>Margaret Mullins</b> piece - <b><i>Lost in Light</i></b>. Reading the background on this piece about taking the saddness of a loss and finding your happiness - I was prepared for deep poetic emotion. This isnt to say Mullins didnt deliver or that I was underwhelmed, but rather it was a bit more pleasing to the eye than the emotions. I didnt feel as though it dug as deep as it could have. Whether that is the fault of the choreographer or the dancer, is up to opinion. The dancers in this company that I enjoy the most are the ones whos strength, joy and humility shine through their art when they perform. The beauty of reps like this is that you have a chance to see members of the company that arent seen as much as some of the soloists and principles are.<br />
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I felt that pairing of <b>Jerome Tisserand </b>and <b>Kylee Kitchens </b>was gorgeous and easily out shined the others. At times I have found Kylee emotionless from the shoulders up and not a favorite, but Jerome brought out a lighter, more expressive side of Kitchens which was refreshing and showed in every step she took. While long legs and lines are appreciated in dancers, I find that if they aren't giving me anything upstairs, I quickly loose interest. I was quickly aware who <b>Carli Samuelson</b> was, as she looked wonderful and danced beautifully. Overall Mullins piece was soothing, sweet and lovely but I am a sucker for a bit more drama and depth.<br />
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<b>Mark Morris's</b> piece, <i><b>Kammermusik No.3,</b></i> had been veiled in secrecy for months, all of his rehearsals had papers on the windows allowing zero sneak peeks or leaks of what he had in store. Whispers started - words like "monumental" and "epic" were flying around the PNB School. The thing I enjoy about Morris's work is how picturesque he is, at times I thought I was seeing a revival or remix of some of the West Side story choreography - especially with the men. The music was what gave it that epic feel - the cello predominately stirring your emotions. The piece opened with <b>Carrie Imler</b>, who I like to call the PNB Rock. She is always strong, dependable and amazing. All of the men delivered fantastic performances, so solid and so in tune with each other. Morris's movements are so intentional, and the PNB dancers really handle his style quite well. There were a few that fell short in this piece that I thought made the movements seems labored and harder than they should have, however the more seasoned dancers easily shifted the focus. In the end Morris's brilliance was realized.<br />
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Last but most definitely not least, was soloist <b>Kiyon Gaines</b> piece, <i><b>Sum Stravinsky</b></i>. I have enjoyed Gaines as a dancer for years, and missed him last year during his injuries. However I didnt know what to expect of his choreographing abilities and seeing no teasers or anything - was gleefully surprised. I like to say I was doing my Zack Woodlee hands (only Glee Project fans will get this) during his entire piece! This piece regressed me to a 10 year old giggly girl who saw real life ballerina dancing in a tutu for the first time. That is the mood and feel of this ballet. Sheer happiness with a lovely spirit.<br />
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<b>Carrie Imler</b>, principle dancer, danced the best I have ever seen her. She was glowing, nailing every line, move, turn. Just made everything seem effortless and focused on her sheer joy for the art. Paired perfectly with my fellow Italian<b> Jonathan Porretta</b> - their joy and energy was magnetic! The tutu's. Can I say I am in love with a tutu? A gorgeous light, blue and other hue tutu that had a different hue and cut different for each lead female dancer. When <b>Maria Chapman </b>came out with the one shouldered version I died. You could tell she felt gorgeous in it. Her smile was as vibrant and amazing as her arched feet. The principle dancers truly showed us why they are in the positions they are in this piece. In the music industry we say - they left in on the floor. They truly put every thing they had into Gaines work and even though all the works were amazing - it was evident that this was the performance of the night. <br />
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If I had to rate the performances in order of preference, I would say Gaines, Bartee, Morris and Mullin. But truly all of them were gorgeous pieces of work, each coming from the heart and soul of a gifted and talented dancer and choreographer. <br />
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<b>This weekend is your last chance to see All Premier - tickets are available at <a href="http://www.pnb.org/">http://www.pnb.org</a> or at the box office day of show. </b><br />
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<br />Thee Ultimate Patronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04267208779673543787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1080647157043820252.post-1105833278683113962012-11-06T11:37:00.001-08:002012-11-06T11:43:38.908-08:00Lunchbox Laboratory - Well worth the experiment!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;">LUNCHBOX LABORATORY</span></span><br />
1253 Thomas St, Seattle, WA <br />
(206) 621-1090<br />
Open 11am to 11pm Daily<br />
<a href="http://www.lunchboxlaboratory.com/" target="_blank">http://www.lunchboxlaboratory.com </a><br />
(also have a location in Bellevue)<br />
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We decided to give this place a try after some friends, who know our love for good quality food, recommended it to us, saying we would not be disappointed. (Shout out to the Berg's!!) I must say I had my doubts. <br />
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We went to the Lab late on a Sunday, hoping they would be open. With only a few tables and an hour before close, I was already thinking like a sceptic. Then I read what was on their sandwich board sign out front: "where 6 pieces of bacon...is just average!"...and I realized, I was home. Decorated with vintage and classic old lunchboxes, we found ourselves pointing out favorites and marveling and ones we didn't know existed. There was an arcade upstairs that we were all very tempted to go up and see, but we told ourselves we would go there next time, when we had more time and they weren't closing.<br />
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Our waitress was cute, sassy and fun and didn't give us that "Ugh I was hoping to go home soon" look when she greeted us. That's always nice. I quickly ordered one of their vodka infused drinks that looked so fun, the two men had beers, when she asked what kind they just said "Whatevers big, comes in a BIG glass lol" they pounded their chests and carried clubs too.<br />
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Our teenager was trying to stop from hyperventilating to give her drink order. You see she had just read on the menu that they had NUTELLA shakes. She needed CPR from the cute male bartender immediately she claimed. She was going to have to settle for the shake, a close second.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIFkK1G2mKbSgL36EaEAAW4wR930B_KIkLz8HAIDLA1khEnrHRVjIDXFIME4X_-EzYj6U2St2REFHE1Qr0FPQ-GgodVKgCzTiHRubS1Wfkq3Kv0JznhxIulsRmUHFrWDKcc9NBgC8Q4KUa/s1600/menu-corn-dogs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIFkK1G2mKbSgL36EaEAAW4wR930B_KIkLz8HAIDLA1khEnrHRVjIDXFIME4X_-EzYj6U2St2REFHE1Qr0FPQ-GgodVKgCzTiHRubS1Wfkq3Kv0JznhxIulsRmUHFrWDKcc9NBgC8Q4KUa/s320/menu-corn-dogs.jpg" width="320" /></a>We began perusing the menu, so many fun items, so little time! Immediately the MINI CORN DOGS were pointed out to me. Brilliance. We called waitress back over as fast as possible and asked for 2 orders of them. Bite size corn dogs on a stick. Hand dipped and fried as they are ordered. They were DELICIOUS and between the 4 of us, gone in 2 minutes. <br />
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The decision as to what burger to order was so difficult. I am a burger foodie snob. I admit it. I am constantly on the search for the best burger in the world. There are categories though, there are trashy middle of the night grease burgers, there are shishi Kobe onion crusted $40 burgers and just sometimes you can find a mix of both. Something that is messy and a bit greasy but also won't slide through you and has quality ingredients. Imaginative combinations is a plus, and LL most definitely had that. They also have things for those not wanting burgers - which oddly neither male with us wanted.<br />
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I ordered the <b>Santa Fe Slammer –</b> Super-beef patty, Colby jack cheese, bacon, lunchbox onions, Anaheim green chilies, Papa’s homemade BBQ. They cooked it exactly how I asked, medium rare, more pink than usual. The bacon, chilies and BBQ sauce were all a perfect dance together. I wanted a bottle of their BBQ sauce to take home with me! Tater tots on the side, a soft but lightly toasted bun and ALL my fixings fresh and on the side - made this one of the best burgers I have ever had.<br />
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Those with my group ordered the Dork (and Pork and Duck patty) as well as the Burger of the Gods (key ingredient is the Gorgonzola) and they were all moaning and grinning as they demolished their meals.<br />
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I must say - being a bit of a picky restaurant patron - I have high expectations when it comes to presentation and plating. For a place that specialized in burgers, I was quite impressed with their plating. Each burger was served on long rectangular plate with the side you choose in a nice bowl, very modern/chic looking.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8MO-RBtCX3EAGTMDDMO4J7frzwK4wl-z70WOV_YzgC7KCjVeZUhWyp2XATasjgn48ue5E0ECFzc6WcrJSXe6WWt6ykvgjfTyFLZaytMYJreIpoALVI_VeJtrDrz5WcgtpvEdv7-lQH-vY/s1600/thumb_600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8MO-RBtCX3EAGTMDDMO4J7frzwK4wl-z70WOV_YzgC7KCjVeZUhWyp2XATasjgn48ue5E0ECFzc6WcrJSXe6WWt6ykvgjfTyFLZaytMYJreIpoALVI_VeJtrDrz5WcgtpvEdv7-lQH-vY/s320/thumb_600.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Normal restaurants have "specials" well LL has "Experiments" which are not only imaginative and hilarious but most of the time delicious and current event based lol! For example on this weeks list: <br />
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<b>Donald Trump vs. The Birth Certificate --</b></div>
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Dork, Cheddar Cheese, a mix of Sweet Brown Sugar Marsala Onions and Crushed Pineapple, and Pineapple Mayo! Priceless!!</div>
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We enjoyed our meal and service at this joint tremendously and have raved about it to everyone we can!! Give them a try, you won't be disappointed!!<br />
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RATING! ***** 5 out of 5!Thee Ultimate Patronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04267208779673543787noreply@blogger.com0