OS 100--STAGE REVIEW--TOPDOG UNDERDOG@GASLIGHT THEATER UNTIL OCT 6

Dog-eats-dog on main stage

by Marcus Ma’at Atkins

                                                                                                                Photo by John Lamb

“You’re only yourself when no one’s watching.”

   This is one of the memorable lines quoted from the Pulitzer Prize winning stage play 

“Topdog/Underdog” written by Suzi Lori Parks. It also defines a reactionary and universal trait 

when it comes to surviving in a no-holds barred American socioeconomic system. 

'Topdog'  is currently being staged at The Gaslight Theatre in Midtown St Louis, where St 

Louis Actors  Studio opened its seventh season last weekend.

   Directed by Elizabeth Helman, the two-actor play consists of two brothers. A straight laced 

go-getter named Lincoln (played by Reginald Pierre) and the libidinous Booth (played by 

Chauncy Thomas) who live in a run down flat in NYC and make a living hustling as a 

continuously killed Abraham Lincoln impersonator at an arcade shooting gallery and a street 

Three Card Monte  dealer respectively and coming to grips of  their checkered family past.

    Filled with social metaphor and irony, “Topdog” delves into the psyche of the African 

American man in America and how he adjusts to survival. Every detail of the dialogue mirrors 

the  underlying message that black  freedom or economic independence was, and still is, 

depended on white male assistance or die trying. Hence, Lincoln dressing up in costume in

whiteface becoming invisible his blackness or scheming people at The Three 

Card Monte game--the winning card being the “two of spades,” symbolizing this analogy.

   Although a  bit claustrophobic in its setting and farfetched in some of its explanations of their

 familial past  (e.g. how they were named  and why their abandonment), what gives “Topdog” its

 breath are the powerful non-verbal pathos and dialogue by the two actors, with each other 

and themselves, showing a sense of reality of how people act and re-act  when they are not in 

public and are in cohabitation.

 Crude and poignant, “Topdog” is definitely a cathartic piece that is definitely one to be 

reckoned with as a well-rounded thesis in the black male aesthetic from a point of view. It is a 

definite must see and is worthy of Kevin Kline Award consideration.

WHEN:                        Friday, September 20, through Sunday, October 6

                        Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m.

                        Sundays at 3 p.m.

WHERE:         The Gaslight Theater

                        358 N. Boyle Ave.

                        St. Louis, MO  63108

TICKETS:        Adults - $30

                        Students (with a valid ID) and seniors (65+) — $25

Individual tickets are available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com, all Ticketmaster Ticket Centers or Charge by Phone at

1-800-982-2787. Tickets will also be available at the theater box office one hour prior to performances.

Season Tickets also available. Download a form at www.stlas.org/tickets/

Purchasing tickets in advance is encouraged as seating is limited.

OS 99 STAGE BITZ (SEPT 20-26)

HEY OUTSTAGRS!

ITS THAT TIME AGAIN!!

TIME TO GET TOWNED!!!

 

THE FIRST DAY OF AUTUMN IS SEPT 22

MAAT BITZ

ABOVE is a four minute video teaser of the opening number  from last month's MISTA COUTURE CHARITY STYLE CONTEST. Go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DNBCIKpKMFw

Here is another teaser from the Mista Couture Show. It is of Mr Couture winner Chicagoan Orlondo Thompson in Crazy Costume Wear, one of the highlights from the show!

To order a DVD or vid link of this years MISTA COUTURE show email snaphoney2011@gmail.com

The 2014 OBSDN MEN OF COLOR  CALENDAR is scheduled for a DECEMBER 2013 release.  Pictured above is the front cover...To pre-order your copy, email to snaphoney2011@gmail.com

ILLI MO BITZ

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First Lady Michelle Obama used the power of her bully pulpit Wednesday to push food companies and television broadcasters to do more to promote healthier foods to children — and to do it faster.

Research shows food marketing is a leading cause of childhood obesity because the ads and promotions lead impressionable kids to then pester their parents to eat what they saw on TV, consumer advocates say.

The first lady cited a "cultural shift" taking place in America's eating habits, and highlighted as examples salad bars that are now in many school lunchrooms and kids' restaurant menus that offer such items as broccoli and whole-wheat pasta.

But while she said there has been progress, including slight reductions in childhood obesity rates in a few states and cities, Mrs. Obama noted that "we clearly have much more work to do" when 1 in 3 kids in the U.S. is on track to develop diabetes.

"I'm here today with one simple request and that is to do even more and move even faster to market responsibly to our kids," the first lady said as she opened the first White House summit on the issue. Dozens of representatives from the food and media industries, advocacy and parent groups, government agencies, research institutions and others attended.

The goal, she said, is to "empower parents instead of undermining them" as they try to make the best choices for their families.

 OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network and Discovery Networks International today announced the continued international expansion of OWN with the launch of an exclusive OWN programming block in South Africa.
Slated to launch on October 17, the block will be exclusively available to DStv subscribers on TLC Entertainment, the new name for TLC in South Africa and 40 Sub-Saharan markets. Currently, the OWN programming block is also available to viewers in the United Kingdom and Central and Eastern Europe on TLC and in Australia on Discovery Home & Health, exclusive to Foxtel subscribers.
"Oprah couldn't be more proud and honored to share her new television programs with South Africa," said Erik Logan, President, OWN. "This an exciting milestone moment in our continued international expansion."
"Oprah is truly a beloved figure around the world, but no more so than in South Africa," said Luis Silberwasser, Executive Vice President and Chief Content Officer - DNI. "With the recent local success OPRAH'S NEXT CHAPTER specials with Justin Bieber and Lance Armstrong, this key market has a proven appetite for OWN's inspirational, entertaining and provocative programming. Come October, we are thrilled to offer audiences even more OWN content on TLC Entertainment."
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Hip hop superstar Kanye West gave an introduction to remember when he prefaced G.O.O.D. Music rapper Pusha T's My Name Is My Name listening session with a drunken rant. Laced with verbal middle fingers to "corporations" and "sellouts," it seems 'Ye is already feeling the backlash from his words.

According to Page Six, the Chicago rep is reportedly struggling to find corporate backers for his creative projects, i.e. fashion line, performances and art installations, because of said rant.

"That's why I stand next to this n-gga," Yeezy yelled while standing next to Pusha, who admitted in later interviews that he nearly fainted during the ordeal. "I don't give a f-ck about none of these corporations, none of these f-cking sellouts. This is muthaf-cking Pusha T.

Execs over at Hennessy, who threw a born day bash for Queens MC Nas the following night, were said to be disappointed when West did not show face.

Not that the Yeezus lyricist needed a sponsor when his A.P.C. clothing line dropped. The collection, chock full of white t-shirts at $120 a pop, sold out once it hit the Internet. Still, brands are apparently still skeptical to side with 'Ye.

“Sponsors are scared away because he’s so unpredictable,” a source said.

STL based director and playwright Chrys Yvette made her publicity tour rounds recently to promote her 30 day campaign to raise money for her upcoming film HAPPY HOUR that was filmed in St Louis this summer. She made a  stop at Cassandra and Kelley Show Wednesday on 1380 The Woman AM in St Louis. Pictured are Cassandra Walker Suggs, Yvette and Kelley Lamm. To donate to her campaign go to 

http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/chrys-yvette-s-happy-hour-the-movie/x/4575796 

This This

This week we feature St Louis based music artist Playboy Ro who posted this pic as his recent profile pic on Facebook. Here, Ro, is sporting a backwards black cap, black shades, a black tank and fatigue pants. He is also sporting some tatts that compliments his army b-boy style. Ro, who penned the classic hip-hop song, "Nikki," is also a music producer under his production company Haymaka Musick. According to his website, he will be performing at Cicero's in the Delnmar loop on Sept 23. For more info on his music and more go to http://playboyro2710.wix.com/iamplayboyro

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Why did the media report that the D.C. shooter was a Buddhist? Why is Ben Affleck playing Batman? Why is Pope Francis riding in a pimp mobile? Why is it a big deal of wearing white after Labor Day? Why are Dr King's children still fighting over controlling his  estate? And why did a contestant molest Simon  Cowell on the X Factor?

Alive Magazine presents Saint Louis Fashion Week
Saint Louis Fashion Week is back with 10 days of shows featuring 36 regional and national designers, including Casanova and Laura Kathleen from Bravo’s Project Runway, Samantha Pleet from Anthropolgie and Wai Ming from Shopbop.com. Experience the 10 venues, 22 retailers, 30 fashion bloggers and 70 models from September 26 – October 6. Saint Louis Fashion Week will partner with four charities this year, donating 100% of the ticket revenue from the Saint Louis Galleria’s Thursday, September 26 and Plaza Frontenac’s Friday, September 27 Fashion Week Gives Back shows to HavenHouse and SSM Cardinal Glennon Children’s Medical Center. (Pictured St Louis native/Project Runway finalist Laura Kathleen )

For a schedule of events and ticket info go to http://www.saintlouisfashionweek.com/schedule/buy-tickets/

St. Louis Actors' Studio is presenting Topdog/Underdog, the 2002 Pulitzer Prize winner, from September 20 through October 6. Thursdays @ 8:00pm Fridays @ 8:00pm Saturdays @ 8:00pm Sundays @ 3:00pm This show is not for children. We say every curse word imaginable. I think Suzan-Lori Parks even thought up some new ones for this play. At GASLIGHT THEATER 358 N. BOYLE AVE. For ticket information: http://stlas.org/

                                                            +++++++

Sunday September 22nd marks the first day of Fall 2013. I just can't think of what better way to bring in the new season than an evening of Hot Jazz to warm us up through the winter? 
The night's group 'TRACER' features a grand and dynamic trio of Saint Louis notable musicians... the incomparable Darrell MIXON - on Bass, Ptah WILLIAMS - on Keyboards, and Mr. Gary SYKES - on Drums. Sitting in with the band on a few tunes will be your host David A. N. Jackson on Percussion+ offering up and adding flavor, colors, nuances, and a touch of poetry here and there.
also
Live Art Demonstration and Auction of work by: William Burton Jr, curator and gallery manager will be part of the experience.
Food, Libation, and select Unique works from local artisans, craftsperson's and vendor will be available and on hand.

You Do Not want to Miss this event of the season.
Purchase your tickets early to reserve your spot today. Admission for this fundraising event are $10.00 Advance Reserve, $15.00 GA at the Door.
For more information call (314) 884-1819 (314) 995-9570

The 14th Street Artist Community Gallery is a founding member of the newly formed ALLIANCE OF BLACK ART GALLERIES of Saint Louis, Missouri. Come see, taste, feel, and witness what the celebration of Black Art and artistry is all about.

If you or someone you know who is an artist or a business person in the arts and would like to be featured email us at snaphoney2011@gmail.com

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OS 98 STAGE BITZ (SEPT 13-19)

HEY OUTSTAGRS!

ITS THAT TIME AGAIN!!

TIME TO GET TOWNED!!!

MAAT BITZ

HEY OUTSTAGRS and COUTURIANS here is the four minute video teaser from last month's MISTA COUTURE CHARITY STYLE CONTEST. Go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DNBCIKpKMFw

ILLI MO BITZ

 

Chicago native jazz legend Herbie Hancock is one of five artists that will be recognized at the upcoming 

Kennedy Center Honors Ceremony that will take place at the Kennedy Center Opera 

House in Washington D.C.

The artists are to be presented their awards Dec 8. The program, which will be attended by President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama, will be televised Dec. 29 on CBS.

"The Kennedy Center celebrates five extraordinary individuals who have spent their lives elevating the cultural vibrancy of our nation and the world," Kennedy Center Chairman David M. Rubenstein said in a statement Thursday.

"Herbie Hancock has established himself as one of the most innovative musicians in the world, constantly breaking musical barriers and redefining the art of jazz."

Others recognized will be opera singer Martina Arroyo, singer/songwriter, Billy Joel, actress Shirley MacLaine and guitarist Carlos Santana.

 

Chicago native actor/comedian Craig Robinson's starred in 

the film “Peeples” that was released on DVD this week. The 

extras with “Peeples” include a making-of featurette; audio 

commentary by Chism, Robinson, Washington and Grier; 

and a gag reel.

Fans of Robinson’s TV work can also enjoy “The Office: 

Season Nine” thats also available in the farewell season of 

the popular workplace comedy. The extras include a 

retrospective (“The Office: A Look Back”), a blooper reel 

and deleted scenes.

In other Robinson newz, he kicked off the annual Milton S. 

Eisenhower Symposium at Johns Hopkins University this 

week. Robinson, visited the university's Homewood campus.

 The appearance, co-sponsored by the HOP, is the first of 

five events that make up this year's undergraduate-run 

symposium, titled Learning From Experience: The Path 

Ahead for Generation Y.

 

Chicago native actor/minister Clifton Davis is one of the featured artists in teh fifth season of the hot TV One show, "Life After " that chronicles the careers of veteran entertainers after their major success occurred. Davis's is after he starred on the hit NBC sitcom,"Amen" for five seasons from 1986 to 1991. His episode aired this week.

In other Davis newz, he just wrapped his stint as Dr Dillamond, a British instructor who's a goat in the stageplay, "Wicked" that was staged at The Acamedy of Music on Philly.

This weekThe St. Louis Blues announced that Hall of Famer Brett Hull would returned to the franchise.

Hull was welcomed as the club's new executive vice during a press conference at Scottrade Center on Monday.

"We are pleased and proud to announce that Brett Hull is coming home to the St. Louis Blues. "Brett was a Hall of Famer on ice, and he'll be a Hall of Famer in this capacity as well," said Blues chairman Tom Stillman.

Hull was acquired from Calgary late in the 1987-88 season and over the next 10-plus campaigns rewrote the franchise record books. ,

Following the end of a legendary 20-year NHL career during which he compiled 741 goals, the 49-year-old moved into management with the Dallas Stars in 2006, rising to the level of co-general manager with Les Jackson in November of 2007.

 

According to stltoday.com,, attorneys for Larry Conners challeneged  his former employers at KMOV TV Friday in court on their “no compete” clause in the former anchor’s contract.

Conners,  who was reportedly fired  earlier this year  after he reportedly posted comments on a Facebook page suggesting the Internal Revenue Service was pressuring him after a 2012 interview with President Barack Obama.

After his firing, KMOV officials have reportedly enforced the no compete clause in Conners’ contract that prohibits him from working for another television or radio station for one year.

A decision by the court will be made reportedly at a later date.

This week we feature St Louis wardrobe stylist and entrepreneur Dez Lyons. Here, she had taken a pic of herself wearing this business casual ensem that consisted of a leopard print blouse and belt, hip hugging jeans and black pumps. Her natural brown tinted fro also enhanced her look. Lyons is owner of Styled by Dez

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Why does it seem that the Syrian conflict is going to be Obama's historic misstep?Why did Roland Martin have a cursing rant at an airport taunting the Dalls Cowboys? Why does Arsenio halls new show seemed dated? Why did Don Lemon say that rapper Waka flaka was a black leader? Why did Tyler Perry lay hands on TD Jakes at his church after Perry donated money to Jakes' charity? Why is K Michelle and Tamar Braxton beefing?

Why did Barbara Walters ask tMichael Buble on The View that she wanted to his penis? And why is Gucci Mane on twitter calling out folks about his sexapades?

Come down and enjoy the first show of the fall season. Daniel Beaty's EMERGENCY. A one man show performed by Ron Conner. A slave ship has risen out of the Hudson River and landed in present day NYC. Conner weaves the story of 40 characters through spoken word, monologues, music, and song! Tickets go on sale today! Limited engagement so get your tickets now. EMERGENCY runs Thursday through Sunday from September 5 through September 15th. Call the box office for more info and tickets (314 534 3807) Or go online and purchase your tickets at theblackrep.org. "WE TELL THE STORY!"

Real Life is musical theater piece that explores the attitudes of urban

living. The main character Ray, has a test of faith as he is forced to

choose his morality over a sensationalized street nature that may

lead to his demise. Identifying with the consequences and

repercussions, the community intervenes to effect his choice,

while facing struggles with their own threats of crime and daily living.

Ray connects his fate with sense of abandonment, thus compelling

his reckless behavior and neglect of fatherhood. Through the power

of community, acts of faith and an enduring grandmother, Ray

embraces redemption. Who does decides at what cost?

Washington University's Edison Theatre

6445 Forsyth Blvd

Friday, September 13th 8pm ---FOR STUDENTS AND SENIOR CITIZENS ONLY...

Saturday, September 14th, 3pm and 8pm

Sunday September 15th 3pm..

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The Black Rep in celebration and commemoration of the 50^th anniversary of the bombing of The 16^th Street Baptist Church present a staged reading of  FOUR LITTLE GIRLS: Birmingham 1963 by Christina M. Ham on Sunday, September 15th at 5PM at Washington Tabernacle Baptist Church, 3200 Washington Avenue, St. Louis MO 63103.  The staged reading, directed by Linda Kennedy, will commemorate the precise 50th anniversary of the bombing that claimed the lives of the four little girls in Birmingham, Alabama. The reading will feature music by Charles Creath, Leslie Johnson, Karen Hylton and  young people from The Black Rep Summer Performing Arts and Young Artists for Peace and Justice.

There are live staged readings planned all over the country, including the Kennedy Center onSeptember 15th.  Check www.project1voice.org for a complete listing of cities across America.  This is a great event for community engagement.

If you or someone you know who is an artist or a business person in the arts and would like to be featured email us at snaphoney2011@gmail.com

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