Local rapper Imari has released her latest music video – “Free Night” – featuring K.A.S.E., produced by Derek G, directed by Nick-Keymin Spence and Travis Smith-Simons, with the video edited by Asha Ludwig.
Imari has been a solo artist for three years, performing at various numerous locations around the island including Chewstick, Destination Dockyard, Snorkel Park Beach, Shines Night Club and more.
She also participated in the “Chewronto Tour” to Toronto with the Chewstick foundation which she called a “great feeling.”
The first official track she released was ‘Talk2MeStr8′, and she has gone on to be named the Best Female Rapper at Tha Underground Music Awards, as well as winning the Best Song of the Year award.
Her Facebook fan page says: “When I was younger I remember recording a radio show on about two or three cassette tapes. I had music mixes, shout-outs, and my cousin was my co-host.
“I kept these tapes for as long I could….it wasn’t until I lost them, that I realized that I wanted to be involved someway-somehow with music. One of those games you always wanna play. I had never considered being a rapper until about 20 or so.
“Ever since my decision to do so, I have been and still am determined to become one of the best Female MCs that many will hear.”
Strive for your goals, stay away from gangs, and keep on a positive path was the message delivered by Jamaican reggae artists Luciano and Mikey General during their visit with CedarBridge Academy students yesterday afternoon [Feb 1].
Both artists are due to perform at tonight’s ‘Veterans in Action’ concert at BAA, and took time out of their schedule to visit the high school and deliver a motivational presentation to the students.
Luciano pictured alongside CedarBridge students:
Both Mikey General and Luciano rose to prominence in the mid-1990s and have a slew of hit songs including ‘Who Could It Be‘ and ‘Its Me Again Jah.‘ Both artists are devout Rastafarians, and often tour and perform together.
They sang a few songs, and spoke to the students about having goals in life, being careful of the company they keep and valuing education. Some of the students described the experience as “uplifting,” while Luciano and Mikey General said it was a pleasure to deal with the students.
Luciano & Mikey General perform at Cedarbridge:
“We don’t want them to make the same blunders others have, and want to tell them don’t get caught up with the wrong company,” said Luciano. “Choose the right role models. Too many times I see many great youths go down the drain.”
Luciano said, “We want to make sure we leave with a positive message, especially for the youngsters. Tell them don’t get caught up in all this gang war, all this guns,all these drugs and all these kind of things. It’s not good.
Luciano & Mikey General’s message for the students:
“I know Bermuda is a nice place, always had good memory of Bermuda,” said Luciano. “Clean air, wonderful environment, so we don’t want to spoil that. Want to encourage the youths to stay on a positive path.”
Mikey General said, “We are here to encourage the youths, tell them to love themselves, love each other and love the Most High more than anything else.”
It is understood the reggae artists also visited a family who recently lost a loved one to gun violence.
It is the fifth time the singers have visited Bermuda, and Mikey General said, “The love we get from the Bermudian people has always been great.”
Luciano and Mikey General speak with Bernews:
Speaking about tonight’s show, Luciano said, “There is no doubt we will give them a good proper show. Will be vibes and great energy. Vibes are pumping up already,” while Mikey General said, “It will be very good…it will be bouncing, people will feel good.”
The two artists will be performing at this evening’s ‘Veterans In Action’ Bob Marley tribute concert at the BAA gym, with Luciano set to perform a live acoustical “unplugged” set.
The night will also feature live Bob Marley renditions from local artists including Shorta Ranks, Junior C, Shine Hayward and more. Tickets are priced at $35 in advance.
The last ‘Veterans In Action’ reggae concert was held in November 2012, and featured Jamaican reggae artists Admiral Bailey and Pinchers, as well as a host of local artists.
An estimated 900 old school reggae music lovers made their way to the BAA Gym on Saturday night [Feb 2], as local and overseas artists took the stage for the ‘Veterans in Action’ concert.
Jugglin Jason warmed up the crowd with a variety of old school reggae that was well received by the crowd, and the Bermudian entertainers were the first to take the stage. Local artist Kulture was accompanied by his son, who noted that he “wasn’t a veteran, but he was in action” before entertaining the crowd.
Flookie and Sista Mandy also took the stage as did Desmond “Rivah” Smith, who performed a number of Bob Marley covers as well as his original song “Love you brother” he wrote in memory of his brother Colford Ferguson who was gunned down while working in Somerset two years ago.
The show continued with Screechy Don performing a variety of songs including “Rising to the Top.” He was joined briefly by veteran Bermudian singer Junior C, who thrilled the crowd with his trademark fast paced style.
He was followed by Jamaican singer Mr. Easy who had the crowd dancing along with a few old time favorites, before the headliners Mikey General and Luciano came out to give a full performance which well received by the crowd.
In addition to the musical performance, Luciano — also known as The Messenger — lowered the music for a while and spoke with the crowd about a variety of things, many tied into his Rastafarian beliefs.
Preaching against violence, the 48-year-old singer made special mention of the late Haile Outerbridge, who was one of the two men fatally shot inside Belvin’s last month. Outerbridge was a well known local reggae singer, who performed under the name ‘Star Child.‘
Ital food and a cash bar and the show ended without incident at 3.30am, with many of the attendees full of praise for the event and the “good vibes.”
The promoters extend their thanks to the patrons for supporting the event, and also thanked the sponsors for making the event affordable and accessible.
Overseas artist Mr Easy:
Jamaican artists Luciano & Mikey General:
Overseas artist Screechy Dan, who was briefly joined by Bermuda’s Junior C:
Organizers of the 2013 London “Bermuda Day’ event are have issued an open call to Bermudians who want to participate in the celebration in the U.K.
Organized by Bermudian Beatnik Rubaine, the event first started in 2009. This year, Mr. Rubaine’s Spredluv Collective has teamed with Bermuda Department of Tourism and CKC Corporation/CKC Cares Charity to enhance Bermuda Day in London by inviting Bermudians to join the event as a performer, vendor, volunteer or supporter.
The event will be held on the UK Bank holiday, Monday May 27th, and is an extension of the annual Bermuda Heritage Day Holiday celebrations in Bermuda.
Bermuda Day in London has been held at The Lockside Lounge in the famous Camden Market and has grown considerably in popularity. The event also provides an opportunity to promote Bermuda and spark an interest in all things Bermudian to potential tourists to the island.
Beatnik shares, “By continually adding Bermudian elements, such as traditional Bermudian cuisine, drinks, food and entertainment, we have been able to maintain a true representation of Bermuda and present it in the heart of London’s Camden Market.”
In the past, the event has featured local artists such as Clinark Dill, Devaune Ratteray and Desta Zion, and this year they hope to have a wide array of Bermudian talent.
Bermuda’s artists will also have a chance to perform at additional venues around London to network with the entertainment industry and the Bermuda Day London team is working on securing performance opportunities for artists at various events during the week leading up to Bermuda Day. Updates on new venues and opportunities will be posted on the Bermuda Day in London Facebook page and directly on the ckccorporation.com website.
In addition to Bermuda’s musicians and singers, the event hopes to attract painters, fashion designers, film makers, poets/spoken word artists, arts and crafts masters [including those who make Gombey suits and masks, cedar goods, etc.].
Bermuda’s talents and creative artists may visit www.ckccorporation.com to request a performance space, book a vendor stall, inquire about airline or accommodations or ask general questions.
While air, accommodations and transportation to and from the venue is the responsibility of the artist, the team has reserved special airfare and hotel rooms for individuals or groups. Once artists have confirmed their availability and flight, they will be added to the rotation of the day’s events. Artists should confirm their interest by April 14th 2013.
The Mohawk Radio band extended their support to a fundraising effort by holding the launch party for their brand new EP “#1” in aid of the NK Theatre Arts ‘Big Sound Appeal.’
The band was re-established across the Atlantic in 2011 when lead singer Mia Chambray moved to the UK from Bermuda, bringing the name Mohawk Radio with her.
After responding to an online advert, she joined forces with Sean Frankland [Bass, Backing vocals] and James Gregory [lead guitar]. They were later introduced to Dave Quinn [Drums] and the line-up was complete.
No strangers to delivering live performances, the band has performed at various events across the North West of the UK, including supporting Australian band The Sun Pilots on the Manchester leg of the their recent UK tour.
Official trailer: Mohawk Radio ‘Access All Areas’
Having experienced the facilities available at The Forum Theatre for herself, lead singer Mia Chambray said she was amazed that such a great venue lay right on the band’s doorstep.
When they heard about the theatre’s fundraising efforts to replace the current sound equipment, the band jumped at the chance to support them by donating the ticket proceeds from the event to their ‘Big Sound Appeal.’
Ms Chambray explains, “Arriving in Manchester on June 16th, 2011 after deciding to uproot my life and follow my dream, I haven’t looked back since. In late July 2011 I responded to the boys posting on a Manchester Musicians website.
“We met at the Koffee Pot in downtown Manchester and hit it off right away. After our first rehearsal, l knew I’d found my musical soul mates. I’d travelled across an ocean and come so far, I knew these guys were who I was looking for. I cannot wait to see what the future hold for us.”
Photos courtesy of Mohawk Radio, click to enlarge:
A heartfelt evening of music making was realized by the Sitkovetsky Piano Trio at the Earl Cameron Theatre, City Hall with their only performance with this year’s Bermuda Festival.
Though lacking the sense of adventure and inspiring musicality that nuanced the opening performance of Duo Amal that avoided any and all stereotypical perceptions of classical music, violinist Alexander Sitkovetsky, pianist Wu Qian, and cellist Leonard Elschenbroich delivered an impressive, though in some ways predictable, evening of challenging and rich chamber music.
Opening with Haydn’s Piano Trio No.39 in G Major, Gypsy, the musicians brought to life a sophisticated composition with ample sensitivity for the subtle dynamics that can be enjoyed by a trio.
Though wonderfully unique to this work of Haydn’s is the finale “Rondo in the Hungarian (Gypsy) Style”, one of many works to be influenced by “Gypsy” music, but one of few to actually notate that influence.
The trio ensured that the finale shone with its “Gypsy” influence, allowing the allusions to the refreshing sincerity of the Hungarian form to bolster their performance.
Next to offer in the program was a dramatic and expansive piece from Brahms that at times made this reviewer forget that he was listening to three instruments.
Brahms’ Trio No 2 Op 87 in C major took the audience through four varied movements of great depth and breadth that demanded skilled playing from the musicians.
Mr. Elschenbroich breathed a beautiful, soaring sorrow into the third movement carried heavily by himself, with the finale back to the adventurous and light mood that characterized the previous movements of the piece, accented by the powerfully effortless playing of Ms. Qian.
After the intermission the trio took on Dvorak’s Piano Trio No. 3 in F minor, a conflicting and at times wild but certainly sincere piece colored by an unmistakable tone of grief, supposed by some to have been written as a means for the composer to come to terms with the then recent passing of his mother.
Of note was the second movement set-down in a compelling 2/4 that allowed that musicians to drive the piece forward and explore the conflicting passions of a grief-stricken spirit, with heavily accented beats and cross rhythms that seemed to spring out of each other.
An evocative moment of juxtaposition took place with the transition of the second movement into the third, with the soul of the piece revealing itself as if Dvorak was laying himself bare to his ordeal and accepting the reality of his loss, driving the point home with a rich melody handled flawlessly by Mr. Sitkovetsky.
The Sitkovetsky Piano Trio performing in London in 2011:
Rounding off the piece was the finale, returning again to the familiar energy of the first two movements, unmistakably accented though by a sense of spirited resolution.
The night ended, of course, with the trio heralded back to the stage for an encore and a standing ovation from a strong modicum of the audience.
Spirited, skilled, and heartfelt can definitely sum up this performance, though in many ways an evening of classical chamber music that operated within expected boundaries, the trio definitely demonstrated why they were included in this year’s line-up of the Bermuda Festival.
[Updated with photo gallery & video] While many of their peers are enjoying free time, 35 budding string players and percussionists from many of the islands public and private schools — ages 10 – 19 — have spent the better part of this week being coached in musical styles, technique and interpretations in preparation for public performance today [Feb 14] at 12:30pm on the steps of City Hall.
The Bermuda Youth Orchestra [BYO] encourages students and teachers to pool their energies to create a single musical organization in which all young musicians can participate. Although an audition is not required, students must demonstrate proficiency on their instrument and be recommended by their teacher.
Update: Video of today’s performance [apologies for the audio quality!]
The BYO is a rehash of an old idea, as more than 30 years ago a similar organization existed—with the same name. The older BYO concentrated solely on strings, whilst the current BYO has broadened its scope with a view to attracting and providing opportunities for a broader spectrum of instrumentalists.
The orchestra’s repertoire is as diverse as its student-base. The playlist contains a range of genres – from classical and Broadway to top 40 pop hits.
“The students have been a joy to work with. They’re all dedicated to this project and it shows in the resultant product,” says Tiffany Fox, Music Teacher at CedarBridge Academy and committee member for the BYO.
Major Dwight Robinson, of the Bermuda Regiment and Band stated, “It has been a great couple of days. The students have been enthusiastic and receptive to the instruction and coaching offered. They are to be applauded. Bermuda’s students have long been in need of opportunities such as this.
“It gets them out of the classroom and exposes them to the wider world of musical performance. They find themselves performing out of their comfort zone and alongside persons they will have never met before; but there is an instant commonality among the students that transcends all manner of demographic.”
He continued, “We encourage all who can spare a few moments on Thursday lunchtime to come and support these scholars and virtuosos-in-the-making.”
Update 1.43pm: Photos of today’s performance, click to enlarge
Murder victim Haile Outerbridge leaves behind a legacy of music, including one song he recorded in memory of past murder victims. In a ‘dub’ for OGS Genesis, he paid tribute to the island’s murder victims and called for Bermuda to be a better place.
The song lyrics said, “Although you are gone you can’t be replaced, we see you like a star shining out of space. Although we know you are in a better place, we still cry tears when we see your face…we love them so.”
“We need to make Bermuda a better place….although times are hard we have to hold the faith,” he sang. “Don’t let the devil rule your destiny, cause Jah will set you free.”
The song lists names of past murder victims including Perry Puckerin, Shaundae Jones, Gary ‘Fingas’ Cann, Jason Lightbourne, and Kumi Harford. It also lists people not killed by gun violence including traffic collision victim Earl Ingemann and the late Nelson Bascome and Dame Lois Browne Evans.
Jamaican reggae star Luciano sends sympathies to Mr Outerbridge’s family at the recent concert:
On 23 January 2013, Mr Outerbridge and Ricco Furbert were chased into Belvin’s on Happy Valley Road and gunned down, in a brutal double murder that shocked the community.
Two men were arrested in connection with the murders and subsequently released on bail. Speaking last month, Police Media Manager Dwayne Caines said: “It is important to note; an arrest does not mean the matter is closed, and we urgently need people to come forward with any information that can assist.”
Anyone with any information regarding the murders is encouraged to contact the Serious Crimes Unit on 247-1739 or the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers Bermuda hotline on 800-8477.
The band ‘Walk Your Horses’ has recently released their latest demo single, ‘Persistence Hunting’, one of an upcoming five tracks to be released on their debut EP/demo, Tiger’s Lane.
Walk Your Horses was formed in the Spring of 2011 by Schuyler Ruberry along with fellow musician and friend Daniel Atwood. In the early Fall of 2012, another bandmate, also a lifelong friend, Kade Stallard, joined the band.
Persistence Hunting:
Mr Ruberry said, “The music is experimental/progressive electronic, and is all designed from the ground up, with the exception of the use of ‘samples’ in our work. We come from influences consisting of a very eclectic collection music, mainly focusing on metal & rock, old school & modern hip hop, and electronic/house music.
“We are very, very proud Bermudian folk at heart and a lot of our music shares a feeling of Bermuda in its core – and it all contains little clues that may speak of that – from our EP being named “Tiger’s Lane”, to the Band’s name & song names, to specific locations of recording, historical/emotional/personal reasoning behind our material and so on.
Taking Teppelin:
“We are very keen on breaking many barriers in Bermuda. Too many people seem to shun or fear what they don’t know, or understand and I strongly stand to be a person that brings a new breath of air into the life of our island, and her people.”
‘Taking Teppelin’ was the band’s first song to be released up leading up to the finalization of their EP/Demo – Tiger’s Lane with more material being prepared every day. The band can be followed on Soundcloud, Bandcamp or Facebook.
Crowds of people gathered outside City Hall this afternoon [Feb 20] combined choir of 300 school students performed under the direction of Voces8.
The UK-based Voces8 group rose to fame in 2005 when they achieved first prize at the International Choral Grand Prix in Italy. Since then they have performed in Europe, the USA, Africa and Asia, and return to the Bermuda Festival after first performing here in 2010.
Today’s lunchtime performance was part of the ‘Festival Freebies’, which is part of the Bermuda Festival of the Performing Arts.
The free series of talks and performances by locals and some of the performers in the Bermuda Festival is designed to increase Bermuda’s exposure to all forms of art.
Bermudian Ryan Purnell and his ‘A-List Squad Music Group’ have released a single called “Live Free“, with the aim to keep the memory of those affected by violence alive as well as promote a positive message in the community. The song is available for sale on iTunes, and 80% of the proceeds will be donated to Bermuda’s Live Free Charity.
Live Free was founded after the death of 22-year-old Jason Smith, who was murdered in May 2011 in what the police believe was a case of mistaken identity. Mr Smith attended Saltus Grammar School locally before heading off to college, played football for the PHC Zebras and served in the Bermuda Regiment, volunteering for the NCO cadre and attaining the rank of Lance Corporal.
A-List Squad Music Group, based in Philadelphia, was founded in 2011 by Bermudian Ryan Purnell and two Philadelphia natives, Aaron ‘Kiotic’ Bayaan and Will ‘Write’ Togba. Their mission was to create a music production company that highlights aspiring young artist with a positive message.
Mr Purnell said, “Over the years we have provided a platform for young artists to produce and promote their projects with a strong emphasis on their awareness of the contribution their messages have on the world.
“I heard about the Live Free Organization after the death of my friend Jason Smith. My partners and I thought it would be a great opportunity for our company to get involved.
“We produced this song Live Free, not only keep the memory of those affected by senseless violence in Bermuda alive, but to also promote a positive message through out the community.
“It saddens me deeply to read the news and constantly see lives lost throughout our country. Therefore, ALS will donate 80% of any proceeds from this single to Bermuda’s Live Free Charity,” concluded Mr Purnell.
You can listen to a preview of the song, as well as purchase it [$0.99] here on iTunes.
He was perhaps best known as the high-stepping lasso dancer Will Parker in the 1955 film version of the Rodgers & Hammerstein musical “Oklahoma!” — but Hollywood and Broadway hoofer Gene Nelson also capered his way down the streets of Hamilton and onto the deck of the luxury liner “Queen of Bermuda” in a 1959 NBC TV special shot here
The show — called “America Pauses In September” — teamed Mr. Nelson with frequent dance partner Pat Horn for the Bermuda segment.
The special, which helped to kick off NBC’s 1959 television season, received lukewarm reviews when it aired — except for the Bermuda routine. “Friday night there was ‘America Pauses In September’ …,” said one critic. “This was notable for Gene Nelson doing a marvellous dance in Bermuda and all over the ship ‘Queen of Bermuda’. The rest seems repetitious — from other shows, other times — and a little slow-paced.”
Born Eugene Berg in Seattle, Washington in 1920, one-time dancer and choreographer Mr. Nelson later turned his hand to directing. He helmed two Elvis Presley moves — “Kissin’ Cousins” and “Harum Scarum” — and episodes of numerous television series including “Rifleman”, “Star Trek” and “Starsky and Hutch.”
He died in 1996.
Clip of Bermuda sequence from TV special “America Pauses In September”
[Written by Rajai Denbrook and Rennika Trott] They know how to start ‘em, and they definitely know how to end ‘em, the Bermuda Festival of Performing Arts that is.
They promised to ROCK us and Gary Mullen and The Works did that oh so well with their “One Night of Queen”; a non-stop, high energy, evening of flawless covers of all of Queen’s greatest hits, with all of the shirtless prancing, electric guitar wailing, crowd hollering goodness you’d expect from the original!
Don’t be mistaken, this is a rock concert for a crowd of 40,000, which the band is accustomed to playing for, somehow all packed onto the stage at the Fairmont Southampton, yanking concert goers into the relentless, head-banging, and nostalgic two and a half hour set, that these reviewers still don’t exactly know how the band managed to rage the entire way through.
Promo video for Gary Mullen and The Works “One Night of Queen”:
To start the show, We Will Rock You, the best start to any of the festival performances yet, then the second number came rushing in, and with that, so did the wall of lights lining the back of the stage, and the smoke machine, and the band’s sense of sheer fun and skill solidified.
Then some banter from Gary Mullen as Freddie Mercury, calling late comers b******, and promising drinks on them for the entire audience, and band, during the intermission, then pointing out there was room up front to dance and sing…and take all your clothes off (which he partially did by the way).
Next, Somebody To Love, accompanied by one of these reviewers who sang along until his little lungs were dry.
There was no hiding from “Freddie”, the band, or the electricity flying off of them, you were going to get your money’s worth and have fun, whether you wanted to or not.
Up next, a number that caused what can only be described as an exodus to the front of the stage to occur, Another One Bites the Dust.
In a wave virtually all of the audience decided they were going to have an exceedingly good time, left their seats, found a space at the front of the stage, and did just that, and very well too.
Also of note in the first half has to be a solo from guitarists David Brockett, whose brilliance, experience and fearlessness made the show for one these reviewers.
All of a sudden the rest of the band exited the stage and there was Mr. Brockett trying his best to melt the room, somehow not managing too, but certainly managing to make a few people hoarse for sure.
Then after the intermission the band exploded back onto the stage with even more energy than before, abating the anticipation of these reviewers for a drum solo from Jonathan Evans that delivered in every which way we hoped it would.
We won’t go into much more detail, mostly because there are only so many ways you can say “it was awesome, worth every penny, go and see it, especially if you don’t know a thing about Queen like us”, but what we will say is that there was some sneaky guitar playing from Mr. Mullen, some choice moments from Malcom Gentles on the keyboards and Billy Moffat on bass, sweat, lots of sweat, and a rendition of We Are The Champions that made these reviewers feel like they could do anything, including avert World War Two.
Serious congratulations to Gary Mullen and The Works for keeping the legacy of Queen alive in such a wonderfully appropriate way and for reminding the audience how easy, and perhaps important it is, to enjoy some great live music, and have a bit of fun.
Also, big kudos to the technical team for exceptionally managing the show!
You can catch this final show for the Bermuda Festival of Performing Arts 2013 one more time this Saturday evening.
Thank-you to the festival for another great run, and here’s to looking forward to next year!
Bermudian singer Mishka has released a new song entitled “Ocean Is My Potion,” which is now available on iTunes. Recorded at the Shrimpboat Sound Studio in Key West, Florida; the album features Mishka’s take on the Jimmy Buffett classic, “Trying to Reason with Hurricane Season,” with the track featuring Jimmy Buffett himself.
The Bermuda Audubon Society is flying high following the success of its Bluebird Nest Box Workshop held yesterday [Mar. 3] at Aberfeldy Nurseries in Paget.
With March marking the beginning of nesting season for the critically endangered native Bermuda bird, Society president Andrew Dobson [pictured here with three young workshop participants] outlined the ongoing plight it faces from both predators and encroachments on its natural habitat and then helped those in attendance build their own nest boxes.
Bluebirds — their numbers now reduced to approximately 500 — are almost completely dependent on man for their continuing survival in Bermuda.
The Audubon Society and its adjunct the Bermuda Bluebird Society have long been encouraging local residents to erect their own backyard bluebird boxes — and even entire trails if space allows.
The Bermuda Bluebird Society was founded in the 1980s by Bermudian Thomas Downing [Tommy] Outerbridge. Injured in a fall from a Warwick cliff-top while he was excavating Longtail nests in 1984, Mr. Outerbridge was rendered a quadriplegic. He now lives in the United Kingdom but still monitors efforts to save the Bermuda bluebird from his home in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire.
Music Video: “Mr. Bluebird Blue” By Tommy Outerbridge From His 1983 TV Documentary
Mr. Outerbridge said Bermuda will be required to take increasingly strong measures if the endemic songbird is going to be saved from extinction.
“When it comes to the plight of the bluebirds, it’s a Dunkirk situation,” Mr. Outebridge said this weekend. “If the entire Bermuda populace is not motivated to curb the fierce numbers of sparrows and starlings by actively waging war on them, then it is bye-bye bluebirds in Bermuda.
“Strangely enough, people who like sparrows and starlings can humanely help eliminate the threat. Simply build aviaries in all areas where you find most of these foreign and abundant birds. However these ‘aviaries’ are actually cages where the birds check in but never check out.
“The aviary is a big cage with a series of horizontal narrow two inch slits across the flat roof top. These openings allow the birds to drop down into the cage. The cage can be a good size with trees and perches, water, and plenty of food acting as a magnet. The sparrows and starlings would drop in and then simply live out the rest of their days. Like fish traps. As they congregate and their numbers grow, they act as a magnet for all their similarly feathered friends. Could easily be done. The sooner the better. Just takes the will.”
Bermuda Audubon Society Bluebird Nest Box Worshop
Photographs courtesy of the Bermuda Audubon Society
Pint-sized TV star Emma Kenney took a break from the rough-and-tumble world of the cable comedy “Shameless” to enjoy a weekend in New York, including a Broadway outing [Mar.2] to see “Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark” — meeting friendly, neighbourhood Bermuda co-star Rebecca Faulkenberry after the curtain came down.
After taking in the high-flying musical, New Jersey native Emma, who plays Debbie Gallagher, the youngest girl in the dysfunctional family on the Showtime hit, backstage at New York’s Foxwoods Theatre and said hello to Ms Faulkenberry [who plays Mary Jane Watson, the title character's love interest] and Spider-Man/Peter Parker alternate Jake Epstein.
Bermudian Ms Faulkenberry joined the “Spider-Man” cast in November, 2011. She had made her Broadway debut earlier that year in the ’80s-era jukebox musical “Rock Of Ages.” Before moving to New York, the former Bermuda High School student had worked in London’s West End appearing in such shows as “High School Musical” and “Aunt Dan and Lemon.”
“Spider-Man” began preview performances on November 28, 2010 and has gone on to become one o0f the most famous theatrical events in Broadway history, playing to packed houses and standing, screaming ovations nightly.
Featuring music and lyrics by 22-time Grammy Award-winners Bono and The Edge, direction by Philip William McKinley ["The Boy From Oz"], original direction by Tony Award-winner Julie Taymor ["The Lion King", "Across The Universe", "Frida"], the show stars Ms Faulkenberry, Reeve Carney in the dual role of Peter Parker and Spider-Man and Patrick Page as industrialist Norman Osborn and his crazed alter ego, the villainous Green Goblin.
Inspired by nearly 50 years of the Marvel comic book character created by writer/editor Stan Lee and artist Steve Ditko, “Spider-Man” follows the story of teenager Peter Parker, whose unremarkable life is literally turned upside-down when he’s bitten by a genetically altered spider and wakes up the next morning clinging to his bedroom ceiling.
This bullied science-geek suddenly endowed with incredible powers soon learns, however, that with great power comes great responsibility as villains put both his physical strength and strength of character to the test.
Get ready ’cause here he comes — Bermuda actor/singer Nicholas Christopher [pictured] is set to make his Broadway debut next week [Mar.11] when the highly-anticipated show “Motown: The Musical” begins previews at New York’s Lunt-Fontanne Theatre on West 46th Street.
“Motown: The Musical” tells the real story behind the one-of-a-kind sound that hit the radio airwaves in 1959 and changed popular culture forever.
The show charts Motown record label founder Berry Gordy’s incredible journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder,Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye and so many more.
Although Mr. Christopher has appeared in two major New York productions since 2011 — the critically praised revival of the musical “Rent” and playwright Katori Hall’s searing drama “Hurt Village” – neither show was staged in the traditional Broadway theatre district, extending from 40th to 54th Street, and from west of Sixth Avenue to east of Eighth Avenue, and including Times Square and 42nd Street.
Mr. Christopher will become the second Bermudian to be treading the Broadway boards during the 2012-13 New York theatre season; Rebecca Faulkenberry is starring in “Spider-Man: Turn Off The Dark” at the Foxwoods Theatre on West 42nd Street.
A Look Behind The Scenes At “Motown: The Musical”
“Motown” stars Brandon Victor Dixon as Gordy, Valisia LeKae as Diana Ross, Charl Brown as Smokey Robinson and an ensemble including Mr. Christopher, Timothy J. Alex, Bryan Terrell Clark, Rebecca E. Covington, Ariana Debose, Andrea Dora, Preston W. Dugger III, Wilkie Ferguson, Dionne Figgins, Marva Hicks, Sasha Hutchings, Lauren Lim Jackson, Morgan James, John Jellison, Crystal Joy, Grasan Kingsberry, Marielys Molina, Sydney Morton, Jarran Muse, Jesse Nager, Milton Craig Nealy, N’Kenge, Dominic Nolfi, Saycon Sengbloh, Ryan Shaw, Jamal Story, Eric LaJuan Summers, Ephraim Sykes, Julius Thomas III, Daniel J. Watts and Donald Webber, Jr.
After completing its previews, the show officially opens on April 14.
Mr. Christopher, who attended Walnut Hill School For the Arts in Massachusetts and the Boston Conservatory, later studied musical theatre at the prestigious Juilliard School of Music in New York.
The son of Hamilton Town Crier Ed Christopher, he made his professional musical theatre debut early in 2011 in the US national touring company of the Broadway musical hit “In The Heights.”
Bermuda is mourning the death of Eddy DeMello, the colourful entertainment impresario, businessman and longtime champion of the island’s Portuguese community.
Mr. DeMello [pictured] died yesterday [Mar.6] at the age of 75 following a long illness.
One of the island’s pre-eminent entertainment promoters, he brought such internationally acclaimed performers as Mahalia Jackson, Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, Charlie Pride, Hank Williams Jr., Byron Lee and Portuguese Fado singer Amelia Rodrigues to Bermuda.
He was also the owner and manager of several businesses including The Music Box, Music Box East, Ceramics & Things as well as being a partner in Queen Street Liquors. Beginning in the 1960s, he produced numerous recordings under his Duane and Edmar record labels including “Savages Live ‘N Wild” — the first LP by four Bermudian rockers including future stars Howie Rego and Paul Muggleton, the album is now highly sought-after by collectors worldwide as a classic of early ’60s garage rock.
Mr. De Mello was especially beloved among Bermuda’s fraternity of professional musicians, many of whom he encouraged, featured on his concert bills and recorded.
Mr. DeMello in 2011 with then Minister Neletha Butterfield and head librarian Joanna Brangman
“I am saddened, immensely saddened by the death of Eddy DeMello,” veteran Bermudian musician Stefan Hinds posted yesterday. “I considered Eddy a true friend of mine not only as a musician but on a deeply personal level. He always had time to talk with me, encourage me and enlighten me.
“There are hundreds of musicians in Bermuda who would have never even seen the light of day professionally if it was not for the largesse and empathy of Eddy. A well known promoter in sports and music, Eddy had limitless contacts and access to all well known artists and promoters around the world. His contribution to the ‘local’ music scene in the way of recordings and pictures will probably never be rivalled.
“A true ‘gentleman and promoter’, Eddy will be sorely missed. Eddy, you were responsible for so much of my knowledge of the music scene in Bermuda and allowed me to participate and grow through your knowledge and opportunities.”
Mr. Hinds concluded: “My heart is not only broken for your family, but for Bermuda, who has lost a man who loved his island and had vision and caring beyond measure for the growth and sustaining of our local music industry. Eddy, you will be missed.
“Rest In Peace…..no one deserves it more.”
Portuguese-language interview with Mr. DeMello on Azorean TV
Manuel Edward [Eddy] De Mello was born in Sao Miguel in the Azores in 1937 and came to Bermuda when he was eleven years old.
He became an advocate and spokesman for the Portuguese community as a young man and was involved with the Vasco Da Gama Club for more than 25 years, serving as president for 17 years. For 29 years he hosted Portuguese-language programmes on local radio and often served as Portuguese interpreter in court cases. He was also an occasional consultant to various Governments on issues relating to the Portuguese community.
Mr. DeMello also worked with filmmaker Charles Reilly and Hamilton businessman Robert Pires on the documentary “The Returnees”, the story of a group of Portuguese-Bermudians who visited the Azores on a cultural tour at the invitation of Lisbon.
The film was released exactly 160 years after the first group of Portuguese immigrants arrived on Bermuda’s shores on November 4, 1849 aboard the ship the “Golden Rule.”
Second part of Azorean TV interview with Mr. DeMello
Mr. De Mello was created a Comendador da Ordem do InfanteDom Henrique [Knight Commander in the Order of Prince Henry the Navigator] by Lisbon on June 1, 1979 for his contributions to Portuguese welfare in Bermuda.
And in 1988 he was awarded the Queen’s Certificate and Badge of Honour in recognition of his work with the Portuguese community in Bermuda and in the entertainment field.
In November, 2004 he was awarded the Bermuda Arts Council’s Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his contribution to the arts in Bermuda.
Former Community & Cultural Affairs Minister and Bermuda music historian Dale Butler posted about Mr. DeMello’s death last night, commenting: “Condolences. He has gone on to promote and organise a few concerts in heaven.”
Mr. DeMello is survived by his wife Elsie, son, Duane, sister Mary, brothers William and Joseph and a granddaughter.
Bermudian singer Twanée Butterfield released her latest music video “Mission Statement” today [Mar 7], with the song available on download on iTunes for $0.99. “Mission Statement” was written by Twanée and Julien Thompson, features Kidd Kidd, with the video directed by Chris “Broadway” Romero.
