north g arts&entertainment · production of the sexy and irreverent farce “dirty rotten...

1 B S M O K E S I G N A L S | A R T S & E N T E R T A I N M E N T FEBRUARY 2018MARIETTA

Two con men, three exceptional women and the elite of the French Riviera collide in the Atlanta Lyric Theatre production of the sexy and irreverent farce “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels”

Feb. 9-25. Based on the 1988 film, the sophisticated, suave and mischievous comedy was nominated for 11 Tony awards. Lawrence Jameson (Bryant Smith) makes his living by talking rich ladies out of their money, while Freddy Benson (Chase Peacock) more humbly swindles women by waking their compassion with fabricated stories about his grandmother’s failing health. After meeting on a train, they try to work together, only to find that the

small French town isn’t big enough for both of them as a battle of cons and illicit romances ensues. Rick Lombardo, chair of the Department of Theatre and Performance Studies at Kennesaw State University, directs a cast also led by local musical comedy veterans Galen Crawley, Jessica De Maria,

Steve Hudson and Allison McDowell. Rounding out the ensemble are Lauren Tatum, J. Koby Parker, Arielle Geller, Fenner Eaddy, Alyssa Michelle, Brian Jordan, Bonnie Harris, Jonathan Chisolm, Megan Wheeler, Quentin Brown and Jordan Keyon Smith. Paul Tate is music director. The Lyric performs at Jennie Anderson Theatre at Cobb Civic Center, 548 South Marietta Parkway. Tickets, reservations and group pricing are at 404-377-9948 or www.AtlantaLyric.com.

‘Dirty Rotten Scoundrels’ headed

to Atlanta Lyric Theatre

n FEBRUARY 9-25COBB CIVIC CENTER

North GeorGia

Arts&EntertainmentFEBRUARY 2018 | The area’s most comprehensive events guide and calendar | COVERING ATLANTA & NORTH GEORGIA

n AJFF | Page 6

BY CHRISTOPHER BARKER

Atlanta’s single largest annual film festival is back in town now with 192 screenings of 76 narrative films and documentaries from 27

countries at seven venues over 23 days. The 18th annual Atlanta Jewish Film Festival (AJFF) Jan. 24 to Feb. 15 features special guests who include comedian Gil-bert Gottfried and director Neil Barkeley from “Gilbert;” “1945” director Ferenc Torok; “Winter Hunt” director Astrid Schult; “The Cakemaker” director Ofir Raul Grazier; and “The Testament” director Amichai Greenberg. “We are proud to continue an 18-year tradition by bringing the most diverse and compelling films from around the globe,” said AJFF Executive Director Kenny Blank in announcing this year’s film lineup. “There is a universality to the stories told in this year’s lineup, with both sweeping epic stories, personal narratives, unconven-tional perspectives and stories that interact with other communities. Our annual festi-val truly provides something for everyone.” Film subjects run the gamut from romance to American Jewish life, biog-raphies, social justice, women’s stories, the arts, African-American life, LGBTQ, anti-Semitism and more. “I love the dra-mas, romances and comedies we have this year,” says Blank. The Southeastern premiere of “Sammy Davis, Jr.: I’ve Gotta Be Me” was secured to open the festival Jan. 24, paying tribute

“The festival ‘started small and

promoted primarily to Jewish moviegoers

in the city,’ and is now ‘recognized as a

major part of the arts and cultural landscape.

It’s grown in terms of how it’s perceived…’ ”

AJFF venues this year include Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre (above), Perimeter Point 10, Atlantic Station Stadium 18 IMAX & RPX, Hollywood Stadium 24, The Springs Cinema & Taphouse, Tara Cinemas 4 and the Woodruff Arts Center. PHOTO BY DAEMON BAIZAN

A large audience saw ‘Alone in Berlin’ during one of the previous 17 Atlanta Jewish Film Festivals. PHOTO BY DAEMON BAIZAN

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival screens 76 cinematic works over 23 days

2 B S M O K E S I G N A L S | A R T S & E N T E R T A I N M E N T FEBRUARY 2018

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Arts&Entertainment

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What’s Inside | ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Big Canoe Artists Club Artist of the Month Claudia Campbell • 13

bigcanoenews.com/art-entertainment

‘Dirty Rotten Scoundrels’ at Atlanta Lyric Theatre ............................ 1Atlanta Jewish Film Festival .............. 1, 6-8‘King Hedley’ at True Colors ..................... 2‘The Ballad of Klook and Vinette’ at Horizon Theatre ................................... 2Chocolate & Wine Bash ........................... 3Atlanta Opera: ‘Daughter of the Regiment’ ..................... 4February Calendar ................................... 5Valentine’s Day Collection ....................... 7

Big Canoe Photography Club Photo of the Month ................................. 9Atlanta Ballet: ‘Don Quixote’ .................. 10‘Picnic’ at Stage Door ............................ 12‘Rent’ at Fox .......................................... 12Big Canoe Artist of the Month ................ 13

ATLANTA

ATLANTA

Atlanta gets another taste of August Wilson’s celebrated Pittsburg Cycle play series when “King Hedley II” visits

True Colors Theatre Company’s stage Feb. 13 through March 11. “King Hedley II” is the ninth in the 10-play Pittsburg Cycle that captures comic and tragic aspects of African-American life in different 20th century decades. In 1980s inner-city Pittsburg, ex-convict King Hedley II peddles stolen refrigerators to save up for his own business and, he hopes, a new life. Desperately fighting to overcome his record, his family and a world that’s against him, King spends his time trying to plant seeds in a garden where nothing can grow – a metaphor for his own life. The play is the darkest and most symbolic story in the Wilson series with a haunting and challenging tragedy of Shakespearean proportions. Jamil Jude directs True Colors alumni Neal Ghant in the title role, E. Roger Mitchell (Elmore), Eddie Bradley (Stool Pigeon), Tonia Jackson (Ruby), Eugene H. Russell (Mister) and Tiffany Denise Hobbs (Tonia). True Colors Founder and Artistic Director Kenny Leon has a storied history with Wilson’s work, presenting some when he was artistic director at the Alliance Theatre. The Tony Award-winning Leon directed Wilson’s “Gem of the Ocean” and “Fences,” the latter earning Tony and Pulitzer awards. Performances at Southwest Arts Center, 915 New Hope Road in Atlanta, are at 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays and 2:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Additional shows are at 11 a.m. Feb. 21 and 10 a.m. March 2. Tickets at $15 to $60 are at www.truecolorstheatre.org or 877-725-8849.

August Wilson’s ‘King Hedley’ at

True Colors Theatre

n FEBRUARY 13 - MARCH 11SOUTHWEST ARTS CENTER

“The Ballad of Klook and Vinette” written and directed by Ché Walker, opens Jan. 26 and runs

through Feb. 18 at Horizon Theatre. Klook is a drifter who's tired of drifting. Vinette is on the run but she doesn't know what's chasing her. Together, they make a tentative stab at love and reach for hope until the past catches up to the future. Tough, tender, funny, poignant, “The Ballad of Klook and Vinette” will grab you from the inside out. Horizon kicks off its 2018 season with this love story set against poetry and jazz in its highly anticipated American premiere. Soulful music combined with a

witty, moving story makes this a mesmerizing theater experience. Performances are Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 8 p.m.; Saturday, 3 and 8:30 p.m. and Sunday,

5 p.m. (2 p.m. Super Bowl Sunday). Tickets are: $25-45 and can be purchased through the box office, 404-584-7450 or www.horizontheatre.com.

Featuring Brittany Inge and Amari Cheatom, ‘The Ballad of Klook and Vinette’ comes to Horizon as the first show of 2018. PHOTO BY GREG MOONEY

Horizon stages American premier of ‘The Ballad of Klook and Vinette’

n JANUARY 26 - FEBRUARY 18HORIZON THEATRE

1 B S M O K E S I G N A L S | A R T S & E N T E R T A I N M E N T FEBRUARY 2018MARIETTA

Two con men, three exceptional women and the elite of the French Riviera collide in the Atlanta Lyric Theatre production of the sexy and irreverent farce “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels”

Feb. 9-25. Based on the 1988 film, the sophisticated, suave and mischievous comedy was nominated for 11 Tony awards. Lawrence Jameson (Bryant Smith) makes his living by talking rich ladies out of their money, while Freddy Benson (Chase Peacock) more humbly swindles women by waking their compassion with fabricated stories about his grandmother’s failing health. After meeting on a train, they try to work together, only to find that the

small French town isn’t big enough for both of them as a battle of cons and illicit romances ensues. Rick Lombardo, chair of the Department of Theatre and Performance Studies at Kennesaw State University, directs a cast also led by local musical comedy veterans Galen Crawley, Jessica De Maria,

Steve Hudson and Allison McDowell. Rounding out the ensemble are Lauren Tatum, J. Koby Parker, Arielle Geller, Fenner Eaddy, Alyssa Michelle, Brian Jordan, Bonnie Harris, Jonathan Chisolm, Megan Wheeler, Quentin Brown and Jordan Keyon Smith. Paul Tate is music director. The Lyric performs at Jennie Anderson Theatre at Cobb Civic Center, 548 South Marietta Parkway. Tickets, reservations and group pricing are at 404-377-9948 or www.AtlantaLyric.com.

‘Dirty Rotten Scoundrels’ headed

to Atlanta Lyric Theatre

n FEBRUARY 9-25COBB CIVIC CENTER

North GeorGia

Arts&EntertainmentFEBRUARY 2018 | The area’s most comprehensive events guide and calendar | COVERING ATLANTA & NORTH GEORGIA

n AJFF | Page 6

BY CHRISTOPHER BARKER

Atlanta’s single largest annual film festival is back in town now with 192 screenings of 76 narrative films and documentaries from 27

countries at seven venues over 23 days. The 18th annual Atlanta Jewish Film Festival (AJFF) Jan. 24 to Feb. 15 features special guests who include comedian Gil-bert Gottfried and director Neil Barkeley from “Gilbert;” “1945” director Ferenc Torok; “Winter Hunt” director Astrid Schult; “The Cakemaker” director Ofir Raul Grazier; and “The Testament” director Amichai Greenberg. “We are proud to continue an 18-year tradition by bringing the most diverse and compelling films from around the globe,” said AJFF Executive Director Kenny Blank in announcing this year’s film lineup. “There is a universality to the stories told in this year’s lineup, with both sweeping epic stories, personal narratives, unconven-tional perspectives and stories that interact with other communities. Our annual festi-val truly provides something for everyone.” Film subjects run the gamut from romance to American Jewish life, biog-raphies, social justice, women’s stories, the arts, African-American life, LGBTQ, anti-Semitism and more. “I love the dra-mas, romances and comedies we have this year,” says Blank. The Southeastern premiere of “Sammy Davis, Jr.: I’ve Gotta Be Me” was secured to open the festival Jan. 24, paying tribute

“The festival ‘started small and

promoted primarily to Jewish moviegoers

in the city,’ and is now ‘recognized as a

major part of the arts and cultural landscape.

It’s grown in terms of how it’s perceived…’ ”

AJFF venues this year include Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre (above), Perimeter Point 10, Atlantic Station Stadium 18 IMAX & RPX, Hollywood Stadium 24, The Springs Cinema & Taphouse, Tara Cinemas 4 and the Woodruff Arts Center. PHOTO BY DAEMON BAIZAN

A large audience saw ‘Alone in Berlin’ during one of the previous 17 Atlanta Jewish Film Festivals. PHOTO BY DAEMON BAIZAN

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival screens 76 cinematic works over 23 days

FEBRUARY 2018 S M O K E S I G N A L S | A R T S & E N T E R T A I N M E N T 3 B

MIKE ZIEGENBALG & ASSOCIATES#1 Dream Vacations Agency in GA for 2013-2017 / Awarded “Agency of the year for 2017”Big Canoe • (706) 579-5005 / (877) CRUISE1 [email protected] • www.VacationsByMike.com12 year Big Canoe Resident & 25+ years travel/cruise experienceOffice now in North Gate Station, under the Clock Tower Hours: 10-4 M-F • Saturday and other times by appt.

Celtic Tours w/Greg Hinmon featuring a Travel Club exclusive trip departing August 31st - September 12th, 2018. A 13 day “Celtic Dream Tour”. Including stops in Dublin, Belfast, Giant’s Causeway, Donegal, Galway, Cliffs of Moher, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Waterford and much, much more. For more information please see www.VisitIreland2018.info Or, come hear all about it at our February Travel Club Meeting.

Cozy pubs, Green Landscapes as far as the eye can see, and Friendly Locals whose lyrical nature is expressed in the warmth of their welcome.

February 28th Travel Club Presentation:

A small country with a big reputation:Ireland

TIGER

Tiger Mountain Vineyard and Winery will host its annual Valentine’s Day Chocolate and Wine Bash from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 10 at the winery. The annual party features chocolate fondue and

strawberries along with an array of other chocolate delights—think dark chocolate and sea salt. Sequatchie Cove and Sweet Grass Dairy cheeses with artisan breads are always part of the party. Featured wines will include the latest Rabun Red (Tiger’s popular five-grape blend), owner Martha Ezzard’s organically grown Norton, and TNT, a blend of Touriga Nacional and Tannat. Pur-chase a case, which can be a mixed case, of any of TMV’s current eight wines and receive a bonus bottle, per case. Treat your taste buds to fine wine and chocolate sensations while enjoying the music of talented jazz singer Monica Spears and guitarist Derek Worth. The $15 event admission includes tasting of all the wines; for groups of eight or more, reservations are recommended. For more information and to make reservations call Tiger Mountain Vineyard at 706-782-4777. Upcoming events include: • Sat., Feb. 17, Presidents’ weekend holiday. Jazz Mountain’s Ray Olsen and Paul Savaiko will perform at the tasting room from 1 to 3 p.m. The featured wine (complimented by brie and chutney) will be TMV’s 2016 Petit Manseng, winner of “Best vinifera wine in Georgia 2017” and a 2016 gold in the San Francisco International. No admis-sion; tasting fees only. TMV wine club members are free. • Sat, Feb. 24, Stop by for our pop-up cafe lunch at the Red Barn, the first of our winter monthly lunch series. Sip wine around the fire pit—or inside with cozy heat lamps. Please check our website—www.tigerwine.com—to confirm the dates for our February and March Red Barn lunches. TMV’s winter tasting room hours are 1-5 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Sunday and 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Saturdays. Other times,

by appointment. The award-winning Tiger Mountain Vineyard and Winery has a long tradi-tion of excellence. In 2017, at the Georgia Trustees Wine Challenge Awards event, the winery of distinction award for winemaking in America went to Tiger Mountain Vineyards & Winery for its Petit Manseng. Tiger also received the Gay Del-linger Award for the Best Vinifera Wine and won the award for the best Rose wine for its 2016 Cabernet Franc Rosé. Tiger Mountain’s owners began planting European vinifera grapes in 1995 on this five-generation-old, family-owned farm in Tiger, Ga. Carefully selecting varieties of grapes suited to the climate of the southern Blue Ridge, TMV’s own-ers created the first vinifera vineyard in the state. Tiger Mountain Vineyards now grows six French vinifera varieties: Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Mourvedre, Petit Manseng, Tannat, and Viognier, as well as the Portuguese Touriga Nacional. Submitted by Tiger Mountain Vineyard PHOTOS COURTESY OF TIGER MOUNTAIN VINEYARD

Don’t miss Tiger Mt Winery’s Chocolate & Wine Bash


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Donizetti’s “The Daughter of the Regiment” returns to Atlanta for the first time since 1985 as the Atlanta Opera retells the story with an all-star cast Feb. 24 to March 4. The opera known for its romance, comedy and vocal acrobatics tells

the story of Marie, an orphan found on the battlefield and adopted by an entire French regiment. As a young vivandiere, she grows up with more than 1,500 “fathers.” She falls in love with the handsome Tonio, a peasant who once saved her life, but is whisked away by a marquise from her past who has news about her birth mother and is intent on raising her among aristocracy. Andriana Chuchman makes her Atlanta debut as Marie, Atlanta Opera Studio alum Santiago Ballerini returns to Atlanta as Tonio and mezzo-soprano Stephanie Blythe makes

her role debut as the Marquise of Berkenfield. The opera directed by E. Loren Meeker is performed in French with English subtitles. Conductor Christopher Allen makes his debut with the Atlanta Opera. Performances at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre are Feb. 24, 27, March 2, 4 with tickets starting at $35 available at 404-881-8885 or www.atlantaopera.org. “ ‘The Daughter of the Regiment’ is one of the most delightful operas in the repertoire,” said Tomer Zvulun, general and artistic director of the Atlanta Opera. “As the name suggests, bel canto is all about gorgeous singing, and we are eager to share the enormous talents of this cast with the public. We are especially excited to bring Santiago Ballerini, Andriana Chuchman and the inimitable Stephanie Blythe to Cobb Energy Centre under the baton of rising conducting star Christopher Allen.”

n FEBRUARY 24 - MARCH 4COBB ENERGY PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE ‘The Daughter of the Regiment,’ performed recently by the Washington National Opera (above), comes back to Atlanta for the first

time in 30 years in Atlanta Opera performances Feb. 24 to March 4. PHOTO BY SCOTT SUCHMAN

Atlanta Opera revives ‘The Daughter of the Regiment’

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FEBRUARY 2018 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENTCalendar

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1Theatre

• “Picnic,” Stage Door Players, Dunwoody (through Feb. 18; see article on page 12)• “Maytag Virgin,” Aurora Theatre, Lawrenceville (through Feb. 11) • “Angels in America, Part One: Millennium Approaches,” Actor’s Express, King Plow Arts Center, Atlanta (through Feb. 17)• “Native Guard,” Alliance Theatre at Atlanta History Center, Atlanta (through Feb. 4)• “Lady Day At Emerson’s Bar And Grill,” Theatrical Outfit at Balzer Theatre, Atlanta (through Feb. 4)• “Rainforest Adventures,” Center for Puppetry Arts, Atlanta (through March 4)• “The Ballad of Klook and Vinette,” Horizon Theatre, Atlanta (through Feb. 18; see article on page 2)• “School of Rock,” Blue Ridge Community Theatre, Blue Ridge (through Feb. 4)• Dinner Theater: “Twain by Three,” Gilmer Arts Playhouse, Ellijay (through Feb. 4)

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2Dance

• Atlanta Ballet presents “Don Quixote,” Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Atlanta (through Feb. 10, see article on page 10)

Theatre• “The Followers,” 7 Stages, Atlanta (through Feb. 24)

Music• The Beach Boys Tribute - Sail On Band, Holly Theatre, Dahlonega• Love Joys & Echos of Imagination, Crimson Moon, Dahlonega

Visual Arts• Georgia Clay Council Exhibit, Bowen Center for the Arts, Dawsonville (through Feb. 23; see ad on page 4)

Other • The Magic of Adam Trent, Fox Theatre, Atlanta

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3Theatre

• “Romeo and Juliet,” Shakespeare Tavern, Atlanta (through March 3)

Music• Sarah Peacock, Crimson Moon, Dahlonega• Matty Croxton, Cartecay Vineyards, Ellijay

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 4Music

• Tommy Lee Conner, Cartecay Vineyards, Ellijay

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 5Music

• Lana Del Rey, Philips Arena, Atlanta

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7 Other

• Art for Lunch: A Look into the Studios of Philip and Matt Moulthrop, Booth Western Art Museum, Cartersville

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8Theatre

• “Southern Sirens,” Cumming Playhouse, Cumming (through Feb. 25; see ad on page 8)

Music• The Exquisite Mozart Requiem, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Atlanta Symphony Hall (Feb. 8, 10, 11)• Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, Fox Theatre, Atlanta (Feb. 8, 9)• Black Market Trust, Falany Performing Arts Center, Waleska

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9Theatre

• “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels,” Atlanta Lyric Theatre at Cobb Civic Center, Marietta (Feb. 9-25; see article on page 1)• “Those Crazy Ladies in the House on the Corner,” Tater Patch Players, Jasper (Feb. 9-25; see ad on page 6)

Music• Diana Krall, Atlanta Symphony Hall, Atlanta

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10Music

• B.E.S.T. Series presents, Doyle Dykes & Band, Ellijay Elementary School, Ellijay (see ad on page 10)• Jeffrey Osborne and Rachelle Ferrell, Fox Theatre, Atlanta • The Steve Bryson Band, Crimson Moon, Dahlonega • Owl Creek Band, Cartecay Vineyards, Ellijay

Other• Tiger Mountain’s Chocolate and Wine party, Tasting Room, Tiger (see article on page 3)


• Rain – A Tribute to the Beatles, Fox Theatre, Atlanta • Lindsay Beth Harper, Cartecay Vineyards, Ellijay


• Riverside Chamber Players, Fellowship Presbyterian Church, Jasper (see ad on page 12)

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 13Music

• Mary J Blige, Fox Theatre, Atlanta

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 14Dance

• Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Fox Theatre, Atlanta (Feb. 14-18)

Music• Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox, Cobb Energy Centre, Atlanta• “The Sam Cooke Experience,” Earl Smith Strand Theatre, Marietta

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15Music

• Schubert’s Eighth Symphony, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Atlanta Symphony Hall (Feb. 15, 17)

Other• “The Wonderful World of Disney On Ice,” Philips Arena, Atlanta (through Feb. 19)

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 16Music

• Johnny Cash Now, Holly Theatre, Dahlonega• Indigo Girls, Blue Ridge Community Theatre, Blue Ridge• Jason Eady, Crimson Moon, Dahlonega


• Randall Bramblett, Blue Ridge Community Theatre, Blue Ridge• Kevn Kinney, Crimson Moon, Dahlonega • Gregg Erwin, Cartecay Vineyards, Ellijay


• Rick Byers, Cartecay Vineyards, Ellijay


• Claire Vandiver, Cartecay Vineyards, Ellijay

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 20Theatre

• “Rent,” Fox Theatre, Atlanta, through Feb. 28 (see article on page 12)

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22Music

• “Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope,” with score performed live by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Atlanta Symphony Hall (Feb. 22, 23, 24)

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 23Music

• “Così fan Tutte,” presented by the University Opera, Falany Performing Arts Center, Waleska (through Feb. 25)


• “The Daughter of the Regiment,” Atlanta Opera, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Atlanta (Feb. 24-March 4; see article on page 4)• Michelle Malone, Crimson Moon Dahlonega• Daisy Chain, Cartecay Vineyards, Ellijay

Other• Panel Discussion: “Tombstone” – The Real Story and Reel Versions, Fact or Fiction? Bergman Theatre, Booth Western Art Museum, Cartersville


• Craig Hendricks, Cartecay Vineyards, Ellijay


• Gordon Lightfoot, Atlanta Symphony Hall, Atlanta

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 28Music

• Jonathan Biss plays Beethoven, Atlanta Symphony Hall, Atlanta

RANDY MIRAMONTEZ / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

‘STAR WARS: EPISODE IV – A NEW HOPE’

Atlanta Symphony Hall

Atlanta Symphony HallJONATHAN BISS PLAYS BEETHOVEN

MARY J BLIGE

“THE BALLAD OF KLOOK AND VINETTE”

FoxTheatre

HorizonTheatre

STEFANO BUTTAFOCO / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

KATHY HUTCHINS / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

PHOTO BY GREG MOONEY

FEATUREFLASH PHOTO AGENCY / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

DIANA KRALL

LANA DEL REY

Atlanta Symphony Hall

Philips Arena

13

9

5

1

22

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AJFFn Continued from page 1

Visit UsTuesday - Saturday 10-5Closed Sunday & MondayACCEPTING CONSIGNMENTS678.662.3454www.twistconsignments.com171 Foothills Pkwy, Marble Hill, 301485 MINUTES FROM GIBBS GARDENSIn the Brownstone Building next to Mary’s Bread Basket & near the IGA

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Questions? Call our office at 770-893-1594 or send email to [email protected]

February 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25• Sunday shows, 2PM. All others 7:30 PM •

$18 adults, $16 seniors, $14 students

for information or [email protected] • 706-253-2800

Tater Patch Players Presents

Those CraZy Ladies in the House on

the Corner

to the song-and-dance star with all his con-tradictions and complexities, followed by audience interaction with filmmaker Sam Pollard. Adding to the gamut of film sub-jects most suitable for adult audiences are characters, stories and educational experiences in festival films that families can enjoy. Among them are the adventure film demonstrating family resilience, “A Bag of Marbles;” the Israeli teen dramedy “Almost Famous;” the documentary about an iconic filmmaker in “Spielberg;” and the docudrama “The Invisibles” about teens and adults who survived World War II

Berlin, hiding in plain sight. A variety of the festival’s films explore topical concerns, such as the political/reli-gious extremism in “The Cousin,” “Shel-ter” and “Remembering Baghdad.” “An Act of Defiance” looks at race relations, and unconventional relationships are revealed in “The Cakemaker.” Aficionados of the arts can find in-spiration in the musical career celebrated in “Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds: The Conductor Zubin Mehta,” “Gil-bert,” “Itzhak,” “Almost Famous,” “Bomb-shell: The Hedy Lamarr Story,” “Dream-ing of a Jewish Christmas” and the 50th anniversary Classic Film Series showing of “Funny Girl,” among others. Moviegoers interested in sports might enjoy the sport, patriotism and personal growth revealed in “Heading Home: The

Tale of Team Israel;” the profile of a real-life superman who demonstrates strength and courage in “The Mighty Atom;” and “Let Yourself Go,” an Italian comedy in which a high-spirited fitness instructor changes the life of a tightly-wound psychoanalyst. 2018 venues include Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Perimeter Point 10, Atlantic Station Stadium 18 IMAX & RPX, Hollywood Stadium 24, The Springs Cinema & Taphouse, Tara Cinemas 4 and the Woodruff Arts Center. Hollywood Sta-dium 24 became the seventh festival venue this year, when both opening and closing events are at Cobb Energy Centre for the first time. The mission of the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival is “to entertain and engage diverse audiences with film through a

Jewish lens while simultaneously challeng-ing conventional perspectives on culture and history, life in Israel and the work of Jewish artists – particularly where these stories interact with other communities.” The Atlanta Regional Office of the American Jewish Committee (AJC) founded AJFF in 2000, when about 1,900 saw the inaugural festival’s films. As an international advocacy organization addressing human rights, anti-Semitism and bigotry in all forms, the AJC saw film as an opportunity to advance its mission on those issues globally, Blank said. “That was the original impetus.” The festival “started small and pro-moted primarily to Jewish moviegoers in the city,” he adds, and is now “recognized as a major part of the arts and cultural

‘The Exception’ is among the films the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival chose to present to Atlanta audiences. PHOTO BY DAEMON BAIZAN

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landscape. It’s grown in terms of how it’s perceived,” screening independent nation-al and international films “enjoyed by all audiences. It’s a showcase of some of the best international cinema not otherwise available” to local audiences. When an Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences grant was awarded in 2006, festival attendance had grown to more than 7,500. Expanded dates and ven-ues the following year produced audiences of about 15,000 by 2008. AJFF partnered with the Atlanta Sym-phony Orchestra and Turner Classic Mov-ies in 2010 for a 10th birthday celebration featuring a concert of iconic Jewish film scores. Attendance had reached 20,000 by then and grew to more than 30,000 in sub-sequent years. By 2015, audiences of more than 38,000 had made AJFF the first or second largest Jewish film festival among more than 200 nationally, said Blank. Since 2014, AJFF has been an independent non-profit arts organization continuing in partnership with the American Jewish Committee. The newly independent AJFF’s stra-tegic planning added year-round activi-ties that include AJFF Selects, AJFF On Campus, Cinebash, AJFF In Conversation and presenting an Icon Award for Contri-butions to the Cinematic Arts.

Cinebash An outgrowth of AJFF Art Parties, Cinebash celebrates Jewish film through other art forms, blending immersive experiences with food, music and pop art. Themes are intentionally broad, giving attendees opportunities to explore various aspects of film culture, such as influential filmmakers, film marketing, movie poster design, landmark films and art forms from graphic design to dance and sculpture. There are no screenings at Cinebash parties, which is a 3D, immersive experi-ence. For example, a Cinebash celebrated Jewish filmmakers with ET’s bicycle and scenes from Woody Allen’s “Manhattan.” The date for the 2018 Cinebash designed “to foster dialogue” has not been set yet.

AJFF on Campus A smaller version of the large annual festival was at Emory University last Oct. 19-21 with a dessert reception opening night, six films and closing-night festivi-ties with a Chinese cuisine theme. The six films chosen by students for students were reprised from the large festival with intro-ductory speakers at each and a Q-and-A session following three screenings. The pilot program was at Emory, but Blank said AJFF plans to build that into “a traveling road show for other colleges” that educates and promotes dialogue through films.

AJFF Selects AJFF continues the work of its annual festival by bringing noteworthy new for-eign and independent films, guest filmmak-ers and cinematic experts to Atlanta in the AJFF Selects series on a monthly basis May through September at different venues. Films include those that weren’t available during the main festival. This year’s AJFF Selects schedule is to be determined.

AJFF Icon Award AJFF honored Lawrence Kasdan with its first Icon Award in 2016 and plans to continue conferring the honor on other in-dustry artists and professionals “who have upheld the tradition of artistic excellence in film, informed by a Jewish subject or sensibility.” The first Icon Award recipient is a director, producer and screenwriter

Post-screening sessions with directors and other cinematic experts are part of the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival. PHOTO BY DAEMON BAIZAN

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“116 Cameras” (Atlanta)“1945” (Atlanta)“Above Drowning Sea” (East Coast)“Almost Famous” (East Coast)“An Act of Defiance” (Atlanta)“A Bag of Marbles” (Southeast)“The Body Collector” (Atlanta)“The Cakemaker” (Atlanta)“Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story” (Atlanta)“The Boy Downstairs” (Atlanta)“Budapest Noir” (East Coast)“Bye Bye Germany” (Atlanta)“Challah Rising in the Desert: The Jews of New Mexico” (Southeast)“GI Jews: Jewish Americans in World War II” (Atlanta)“Gilbert” (Atlanta)“Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds: The Conductor Zubin Mehta” (Atlanta)“Heading Home: The Tale of Team Israel” (world)“The History of Love” (Atlanta)“The Invisibles” (Atlanta)

“Iom Romi” (Southeast)“Itzhak” (Atlanta)“Keep the Change” (Southeast)“The Last Suit” (Atlanta)“Let Yourself Go” (Atlanta)“Longing” (Atlanta)“The Mighty Atom” (Southeast)“Mr. and Mrs. Adelman” (Atlanta)“On My Way Out: The Secret Life of Nani and Popi” (U.S.)“Playing God” (Southeast)“A Quiet Heart” (Atlanta)“Remember Baghdad” (Atlanta)“Russian Jews” (North America)“Sammy Davis, Jr.: I’ve Gotta Be Me” (Southeast)“Saving Neta” (Southeast)“Scaffolding” (Atlanta)“Shalom Bollywood: The Untold Story of Indian Cinema” (Atlanta)“Shelter” (Atlanta)“Take My Nose…Please!” (Atlanta)“The Testament” (Atlanta)“The Twinning Reaction” (Atlanta)“Winter Hunt” (Atlanta)

best known for co-writing “The Empire Strikes Back,” “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” “Return of the Jedi,” “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” and “Solo: A Star Wars Story,” and the awards ceremony featured a filmography and retrospective high-lights of Kasdan’s career.

AJFF In Conversation The newest AJFF program will be In Conversation – informal panel discus-sions and featured talks similar to Ted Talks that contribute to AJFF’s mission of celebrating film and encouraging dialogue. Topics might include Georgia’s increasing stature in the film industry, new filmmaking technologies and other facets of independent cinema. Speakers may include community leaders from Turner Broadcasting, Savan-nah College of Art and Design and leaders in the U.S. film industry, some of whom might be in Georgia filming productions. But the annual centerpiece remains the now 23-day festival that is unique in its film-selection process. While one person or a small, elite group selects films for most festivals, “we democratize the process” during the six-month selection period, says Blank. “It’s open to the community; anyone can apply to sit on the [selection] committee. We want people with unique perspectives such as academics” and industry experts and professionals “or just film enthusiasts. We’ve tapped into the best and brightest in our community” to be among hundreds of volunteers who plan and stage each year’s festival. AJFF staff members research films from around the world, looking for

great international films that connect to Jewish life and Israel directly, such as the Holocaust and Middle East conflicts, or Jewish life “in the background,” often with unexpected topics, says Blank. Those filmmakers are invited to submit evaluation copies of their work for the around 200 members of the selection committee to consider along with submissions from an open call for entries

and ideas gleaned from other major cinematic lineups that include Jewish and secular film festivals such as Sundance, Toronto, Telluride, Tribeca and Berlin, as well as documentary festivals. Several of the choices from more than 600 entries considered are recognizable Hollywood productions, such as this year’s 25th anniversary screening of “Schindler’s List,” “an opportunity for the next generation to see it when Holocaust denial is on the rise,” said Blank. “In the United States, we’re used to Hollywood films, and Hollywood makes some of the best cinema in the world,” but AJFF expands audience horizons, he adds. AJFF films “get you talking and stay with you a long time,” says Blank. “They’re often unconventional and different from Hollywood films. They include foreign languages, black-and-white and things that don’t fit in Hollywood films. The audiences come in not knowing what to expect; there’s a bit of adventure coming to the festival, where audiences can try something new.” The best way to select films to see is at www.ajff.org, where descriptions of each film, awards they have won and movie trailers can be helpful. Tickets sometimes go quickly and advance

planning is recommended, says Blank, but additional screenings are scheduled for the most popular offerings. Tickets are $15 for general admission; $13 for seniors, students and children; $12 for matinees; $36 for opening night general admission and free parking; $36 for Young Professionals Night with a pre-show party; and $36 for closing night (includes free parking, film and post-screening dessert reception). “For the price of a movie ticket, you can be transported to other cultures and lands,” said Blank. “They’re all examples of great international films and universal stories that appeal to all audiences. “We’ve grown because we’ve been embraced by film-lovers, art-lovers and people wanting a cultural experience as our films have become more diverse with a greater range of subject matter and issues. The diversity of genres is broader, attracting more diverse audiences – about 25 percent of our audiences are from outside the Jewish community.” The festival “is not about just watching great films you can’t see anywhere else; there are chances to discuss films. About half will have a post-film Q&A,” in which authors, directors and academics can delve deeper into the films and their subject matter, said Blank. “You get more than just a movie.”

A question-and-answer session moderated by Rich Eldredge, right, following the AJFF Selects screening of ‘The Lavender Scare,’ co-presented with Out on Film, featured filmmaker Josh Howard, left, and film author David K. Johnson. PHOTO COURTESY ATLANTA JEWISH

FILM FESTIVAL

Annual attendance at the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival now exceeds 38,000 seeing films in seven different venues. PHOTO BY DAEMON BAIZAN

Local through world premieres among AJFF films

The 2018 Atlanta Jewish Film Festival brings 76 documentaries and narrative films to the city, including the following international, national, Southeast or Atlanta premieres that give local audiences a first look at unique works:


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‘Brief, Spectacular Lightshow’PHOTO BY DIANE HOOPER

Diane Hooper and her husband were visiting Bryce Canyon National Park in Southern Utah last fall, when she decided to get up before daybreak to catch the sunrise.

Despite the cold conditions and an unfavorable weather report, she dragged herself out of a cozy bed and hiked to the canyon’s edge. Seeing nothing particularly dramatic in front of her, she was about to retreat to her cabin, when, just for a few moments the lifeless sky and canyon were awakened with a dazzling display. It was over almost before she was able to capture it. But not quite! Hence this month’s photo of a “Brief, Spectacular Lightshow.” Diane’s advice: “Always have your camera ready. You never know when a brief, amazing sight might happen!”

The Big Canoe Photography Club welcomes photographers at all levels. Visit www.bigcanoephotographyclub.org for information on meetings, outings and exhibitions.

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Renowned choreographer Yuri Possokhov’s “Don Quixote” blends exquisite choreography with an often humorous,

swashbuckling tale two February weekends at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Atlanta Ballet presents the classic ballet story based on the famous novel by Miguel de Cervantes in six performances

Feb. 2-10. The tale follows the intertwined journeys of two young lovers and a fantastical man of La Mancha as he battles imaginary dragons, saves damsels in distress and encounters a colorful cast of characters in the sun-drenched Spanish countryside. “I am so pleased to present ‘Don Quixote’ to the city of Atlanta in February,” said Atlanta Ballet Artistic

Director Gennadi Nedvigin. “This visually splendid production showcases the excellence of dance through its fast-paced, electrifying choreography. It is such a thrill to watch.” Possokhov’s production is infused with flourishes of Spanish culture, featuring guitars, impassioned street dancers and brave toreadors in vibrant costumes with a setting to match. The

Atlanta Ballet Orchestra will accompany the ballet with the music of Ludwig Minkus. Tickets are at 404-892-3303 or www.atlantaballet.com.

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Erica Alvarado and Sergio Masero-Alarte rehearse for Atlanta’s Ballet’s ‘Don Quixote’ on stage at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre for two weekends in early February. PHOTO BY

CHARLIE MCCULLERS

Atlanta Ballet dances ‘Don Quixote’ at Cobb Energy Centre


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The 1953 Pulitzer Prize-winning drama “Picnic” offers a bounteous theatrical experience through Feb. 18 at Stage Door Players’ venue at 5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Road. Made into a film starring Kim Novak and William Holden,

the play takes place on a Kansas Labor Day weekend in the joint backyards of two middle-age widows: Flo Owens, who lives there with her two maturing daughters, and Helen Potts, who lives with her elderly, invalid mother. Along comes a mysterious young man whose animal vitality seriously upsets the entire group with choices, temptations and sacrifices leading to the prevailing message of “Picnic” that youth is a precious gift that must be savored rather than squandered. Tess Malis Kincaid directs William Inge’s play for Dunwoody’s only professional theater. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. Jan. 26 through Feb. 18 with an additional show at 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 15. Tickets are $33, with discounts available for seniors, students and youths. Tickets may be purchased at 770-396-1726 or www.stagedoorplayers.net.

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The 20th anniversary tour of the rock musical “Rent” stops at Atlanta’s Fox Theatre for seven performances Feb. 20-28. The Fifth Third Bank Broadway in Atlanta series brings to Atlanta the reimagining of Puccini’s “La Boheme.” “Rent” follows an unforgettable year

in the lives of seven artists struggling to follow their dreams without selling out. With its inspiring message of joy and hope in the face of fear, the celebration of friendship and creativity reminds audiences to measure their lives with the only thing that truly matters – love. The original rock musical by a little-known composer premiered off-Broadway at New York Theatre Workshop in 1996 and following enthusiastic reviews moved later that year to Broadway, where it won the 1996 Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize for drama. Two decades later, Jonathan Larson’s musical continues to speak loudly and defiantly to audiences across generations worldwide. Based on original direction by Michael Greif, who received Tony and Drama Desk nominations for “Rent,” Evan Ensign restages the play for the tour with the help of original Broadway creatives Marlies Yearby (choreography), Angela Wendt (costume design) and Tim Weil (music supervision and additional arrangements). Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. Saturday, 1 p.m. Sunday and 7:30 p.m.; closing is Tuesday and Wednesday (Feb. 27-28). Tickets starting at $33.50 are at 855-285-8499 or www.FoxTheatre.org/Rent with group orders at 404-881-2000. The “Rent” tour is produced by Work Light Productions, whose other touring productions include “Cinderella,” “Motown,” “Irving Berlin’s White Christmas” and “Clue.”

Seven artists struggle to realize their dreams without selling out in the 20th anniversary tour of ‘Rent’ on stage at Fox Theatre in February. PHOTO BY CAROL ROSEGG

‘Rent’ in residence at Fox Feb. 20-28

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For Claudia Campbell, there is little distinction between her art and her spirituality. One influences the other, with each supporting her journey toward, and the expression of, her personal growth and individuation. Though having received a

classical art education—including a year spent studying in Florence, Italy—her artistic approach to her work now is intuitive, with some compositions presenting themselves in dreams. Upon earning a teaching certificate in art after high school, Claudia began teaching K-12 students right out of the gate. “Concentrating on kids was my sweet spot,” she said. Around age 40, Claudia stopped teaching and pursued art full time, a turning point toward finding her artistic voice. “I had been timid and a perfectionist,” she said. “I didn’t trust myself with the process.” She was inspired by accomplished Atlanta artists whose work was being exhibited in galleries across the country, and she began to transition to the less tight, less controlled painting style of abstract expressionism. Not everyone has an eye for abstract art, but Claudia provided some tips for learning to appreciate the genre. “Notice each artist’s expression,” she said. “Look at a lot of art to see the layers and dimensions. Look for patterns, rhythm, movement and subtlety.” Claudia has painted several series, including one with a house theme. After a roofline appeared unexpectedly in a piece she was working on, 25 more paintings with houses followed over the course of the year, as did a solo show featuring that very same work in a Roswell gallery. Residing in Big Canoe for more than four years with her husband, Jim, Claudia played a significant role in designing the Big Canoe Chapel art studio and providing art lessons there to children. As a certified spiritual director—Claudia completed theological training to help facilitate others in their spiritual journeys—she is looking forward to co-facilitating an upcoming retreat, “Awakening the Creative Spirit.”

In the spirit of helping others begin their journeys as artists, Claudia offers this advice: “Be yourself. Trust yourself. Experiment,” she said, and added most emphatically, “And play!”

The Big Canoe Artists Club is a group of more than 40 regionally acclaimed artists who work in many genres. Exhibits at the Big Canoe Fitness Center and in the lobby of the Brownstone building at Foothills are ongoing. Visit www.bigcanoeartists.com for information about artists and club membership.

Claudia Campbell with Sophie and one of Claudia’s paintings in the background. PHOTOS BY KAT ALIKHAN

Claudia’s ‘Sunrise’ in acrylic.

Campbell beautifully blends art with spirituality

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