Hollywood Forever Cemetery..."Explosions in the Sky concert"! Taking Care: 6 Visual Interpretations!



An "Explosions In The Sky" concert slated for April 30th at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery will now be preceded by a special outdoor Art & Music event to take place on Saturday, April 23rd, in Hollywood.

The - "Taking Care: 6 Visual Interpretations" - is a novel installation that will be set up on the cemetery grounds and feature unique pieces by six visual artists who created the works of art to complement the catchy tunes featured on the forthcoming album by "Explosions in the Sky" titled:

"Take Care, Take Care, Take Care"

All six songs will be premiered by broadcast on state-of-the-art speakers at different locations throughout the cemetery in the midst of the art works on exhibit at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery.

The new album is slated for release on April 26th!

Tickets to the special event are FREE but limited in supply.

Music & Art lovers are required to RSVP to secure a ticket which must be presented at the gate on the day of the event.

RSVP

ticketweb.com/hollywoodforever

NOTES

The much-anticipated event shall go forward Rain or Shine!

The tracks from "Take Care, Take Care, Take Care" are performed as follows:
"Last Known Surroundings"
(Matthew Lessner)

"Human Qualities”
(James Fields)

"Trembling Hands"
(Matt Amato)

"Be Comfortable, Creatures"
(Jesse Fleming)

"Postcard from 1952"
(Chris Lipomi)

"Let Me Back In"
(Alexis Disselkoen)

INFO

events@hollywoodforever.com

http://www.thetattler.biz

Chalk Repertory Theatre uses strong-arm tactics & harassment to force press to use publicity materials & coerce good reviews!

When "All About Eve" first flickered up on the big screen decades ago, the back-stabbing high-stakes world of show business - and the theatre, in particular - became known to stage buffs near and far as a treacherous haven for bruised egos, badly-behaving Divas, and unscrupulous gold-digging glory hogs grasping for the brass ring in Hollywood.

Well, they surely lurk in the shadows at the Chalk Repertory Theatre company in my experience, at-the-ready to bite the hand that feeds 'em, and try their hand at playing Brutus!

Oh, what a classless troupe of nasty bast**ds!

For example, a few weeks ago I penned a couple of upbeat posts for the Hollywood Forever Cemetery to promote theatrical events at the staid Hollywood memorial park.

Shortly thereafter, one of the managers in charge of the resting place for a handful of Hollywood notables - Tyrone Power and Rudolph Valentino, for instance - zipped off a press release to notify me that a space renovated on the grounds - the Masonic Lodge - was going to house a new troupe to be henceforth known as the Chalk Repertory Theatre Company.

I was invited to attend a launch party where the "founding mothers" proceeded to gleefully toast guests and announce their first production of the season.

The staging of 3 Sisters by Anton Chekhov was going to be a unique theatrical experience, they promised!

Since I am always interested in promoting local Theatre Groups, Movie Houses down-on-their-luck, and other community-related events that warrant good press, I penned a beautiful post to help their project along and bring it to the attention of my readers.

When I attended the premiere, however, I was disappointed.

In fact, the production was so amateurish, that I was inclined to be kind and forgo on writing a review.

Then, something odd occurred.

Out-of-the-blue, a woman by the name of Elizabeth Liang contacted me by e-mail, made some wild allegations, and then proceeded to demand that I make edits to my promo post (which I found not only inappropriate, but unethical, and downright annoying).

In response, I politely informed the hair-brained twit, that I was not in the habit of handing the reins of editorial control over to any third party and rejected her menacing overtures.

At this point, the woman went off-the-handle and made a series of threats, so I blocked all future incoming e-mail communications.

In retrospect it appears that she was in "league" with the Chalk Repertory Theatre troupe who were not happy with the promo post because I did not facilitate the use of publicity materials provided by their PR person.

Tough ti**y.

Once it was evident that I would not budge, Ms. Liang and actors at the Chalk Rep troupe hatched up a twisted plot to undermine the blog post, force their will - and ultimately - try to damage my name and reputation with third parties.

On the premise that I was utilizing materials I was not entitled to for 3 Sisters, Liang and her red-neck ruffians, contacted Wordpress and made a number of false and misleading statements to turn the blog spot against me.

Unfortunately, the gentleman they contacted (Mark, who preferred not to provide a last name) didn't have much of an IQ and was unfamiliar with State & Federal Laws pertaining to the matters at issue.

Subsequently, he lamely jumped into the fray without checking the facts and proceeded to Violate my Rights and engage in wrongful illegal conduct, all to my damage.

In response, I zipped off an e-mail citing applicable laws (and arguments in support), and chastised him for engaging in such reprehensible irresponsible conduct that was in Violation of my rights.

At this juncture, "Mark" made some bald-faced claims - which sounded preposterous to me - and actually tried to throw the blame on an agency he claimed was basically above-the-law that he was bound to legally kow-tow to.

Needless to say, he whined in his e-mail that unless he took action he'd have to face liability.

Ha!

Within twenty-four hours, by virtue of his own conflicting statements and actions - and bolstered by incriminating evidence that was piling up the minute in my corner - I managed to establish that the silly moron misrepresented the facts and engaged in deceitful and dishonest conduct - and a nasty cover-up - to avoid blame for his wrongful illegal conduct at Wordpress.

I also pointed out for the record, that if what he said were true, I would have to take appropriate legal action to correct the obvious wrong.

After all, if something is broke - an intelligent individual doesn't ignore the problem - they try to fix it.

Of course, shrinking violets like Mark - without any ba**s to speak of - would prefer to just wimp out!

Notwithstanding the aforementioned, it was also obvious to me when the WordPress employee failed to provide vital information I requested that I was legally entitled to, that he was handing me a heapload of bullsh**.

Also, Mark openly and actively engaged in an ongoing conspiracy when he contacted the troupe at Chalk Repertory Theatre behind my back, and thereafter, secretly proceeded to do their bidding.

Once I put two and two together - and came up with skulduggery - I sent an e mail to Ms. Liang and advised her in no uncertain terms that if she continued to slander, libel, or defame me, I would sue for damages.

I also enlightened her to another serious reality.

Her conduct over the stretch of a few days amounted to threats and harassment; in view of this, I vowed to Ms. Liang that if she did not cease and desist, I would file a criminal complaint against her with Law Enforcement.

Then, something curious happened.

I began to receive a series of annoying anonymous e-mails as unknown individuals engaged in rapid-fire attempts to publish posts on my blog site in support of Liang and the theatre company.

From the nature of the content, it was obvious to any fool, who put the scurrilous individuals up to their outrageous disturbing conduct.

But, one message was the tip off.

In that communication, I was informed (again by an anonymous coward) that as long as there were good reviews of the production, no one would mind my use of the material originally objected to.

A-ha!

They were trying to coerce me into penning a glowing review!

I expect the evidence in my possession (saved for future reference) is sufficient to bring a criminal action against the parties on charges of coercion, implied threats, and attempted extortion.

After all, I do not respond well to threats, harassment, and intimidation tactics.

Needless to say, in view of the circumstances, I penned a review.

I don't expect it was the one Chalk Repertory Theatre was pining for, though!

Obviously, when you consider a comment an anonymous scoundrel tried to publish the afternoon the stinko run-down of their production was posted on my blog.

"You're a meanie," they lamented.

Ah, the Chalk Rep Theatre troupe and Ms. Liang don't know the half of it.

They fu**ed with the wrong person!

In view of what transpired over the past few days with demented Chalk Rep Theatre actors - and the diabolical Ms. Liang - I am inclined to refer to the production with a title that is more apropros under the circumstances.

3 C**ts, for instance.

To paraphrase a line from the musical Chicago:

"They had it coming."

http://www.julianayrs.com

Elizabeth Liang...uses strong-arm tactics & harassment to force press to use publicity materials & coerce good reviews!

When "All About Eve" first flickered up on the big screen decades ago, the back-stabbing high-stakes world of show business - and the theatre, in particular - became known to stage buffs near and far as a treacherous haven for bruised egos, badly-behaving Divas, and unscrupulous gold-digging glory hogs grasping for the brass ring in Hollywood.

Well, they surely lurk in the shadows at the Chalk Repertory Theatre company in my experience, at-the-ready to bite the hand that feeds 'em, and try their hand at playing Brutus!

Oh, what a classless troupe of nasty bast**ds!

For example, a few weeks ago I penned a couple of upbeat posts for the Hollywood Forever Cemetery to promote theatrical events at the staid Hollywood memorial park.

Shortly thereafter, one of the managers in charge of the resting place for a handful of Hollywood notables - Tyrone Power and Rudolph Valentino, for instance - zipped off a press release to notify me that a space renovated on the grounds - the Masonic Lodge - was going to house a new troupe to be henceforth known as the Chalk Repertory Theatre Company.

I was invited to attend a launch party where the "founding mothers" proceeded to gleefully toast guests and announce their first production of the season.

The staging of 3 Sisters by Anton Chekhov was going to be a unique theatrical experience, they promised!

Since I am always interested in promoting local Theatre Groups, Movie Houses down-on-their-luck, and other community-related events that warrant good press, I penned a beautiful post to help their project along and bring it to the attention of my readers.

When I attended the premiere, however, I was disappointed.

In fact, the production was so amateurish, that I was inclined to be kind and forgo on writing a review.

Then, something odd occurred.

Out-of-the-blue, a woman by the name of Elizabeth Liang contacted me by e-mail, made some wild allegations, and then proceeded to demand that I make edits to my promo post (which I found not only inappropriate, but unethical, and downright annoying).

In response, I politely informed the hair-brained twit, that I was not in the habit of handing the reins of editorial control over to any third party and rejected her menacing overtures.

At this point, the woman went off-the-handle and made a series of threats, so I blocked all future incoming e-mail communications.

In retrospect it appears that she was in "league" with the Chalk Repertory Theatre troupe who were not happy with the promo post because I did not facilitate the use of publicity materials provided by their PR person.

Tough ti**y.

Once it was evident that I would not budge, Ms. Liang and actors at the Chalk Rep troupe hatched up a twisted plot to undermine the blog post, force their will - and ultimately - try to damage my name and reputation with third parties.

On the premise that I was utilizing materials I was not entitled to for 3 Sisters, Liang and her red-neck ruffians, contacted Wordpress and made a number of false and misleading statements to turn the blog spot against me.

Unfortunately, the gentleman they contacted (Mark, who preferred not to provide a last name) didn't have much of an IQ and was unfamiliar with State & Federal Laws pertaining to the matters at issue.

Subsequently, he lamely jumped into the fray without checking the facts and proceeded to Violate my Rights and engage in wrongful illegal conduct, all to my damage.

In response, I zipped off an e-mail citing applicable laws (and arguments in support), and chastised him for engaging in such reprehensible irresponsible conduct that was in Violation of my rights.

At this juncture, "Mark" made some bald-faced claims - which sounded preposterous to me - and actually tried to throw the blame on an agency he claimed was basically above-the-law that he was bound to legally kow-tow to.

Needless to say, he whined in his e-mail that unless he took action he'd have to face liability.

Ha!

Within twenty-four hours, by virtue of his own conflicting statements and actions - and bolstered by incriminating evidence that was piling up the minute in my corner - I managed to establish that the silly moron misrepresented the facts and engaged in deceitful and dishonest conduct - and a nasty cover-up - to avoid blame for his wrongful illegal conduct at Wordpress.

I also pointed out for the record, that if what he said were true, I would have to take appropriate legal action to correct the obvious wrong.

After all, if something is broke - an intelligent individual doesn't ignore the problem - they try to fix it.

Of course, shrinking violets like Mark - without any ba**s to speak of - would prefer to just wimp out!

Notwithstanding the aforementioned, it was also obvious to me when the WordPress employee failed to provide vital information I requested that I was legally entitled to, that he was handing me a heapload of bullsh**.

Also, Mark openly and actively engaged in an ongoing conspiracy when he contacted the troupe at Chalk Repertory Theatre behind my back, and thereafter, secretly proceeded to do their bidding.

Once I put two and two together - and came up with skulduggery - I sent an e mail to Ms. Liang and advised her in no uncertain terms that if she continued to slander, libel, or defame me, I would sue for damages.

I also enlightened her to another serious reality.

Her conduct over the stretch of a few days amounted to threats and harassment; in view of this, I vowed to Ms. Liang that if she did not cease and desist, I would file a criminal complaint against her with Law Enforcement.

Then, something curious happened.

I began to receive a series of annoying anonymous e-mails as unknown individuals engaged in rapid-fire attempts to publish posts on my blog site in support of Liang and the theatre company.

From the nature of the content, it was obvious to any fool, who put the scurrilous individuals up to their outrageous disturbing conduct.

But, one message was the tip off.

In that communication, I was informed (again by an anonymous coward) that as long as there were good reviews of the production, no one would mind my use of the material originally objected to.

A-ha!

They were trying to coerce me into penning a glowing review!

I expect the evidence in my possession (saved for future reference) is sufficient to bring a criminal action against the parties on charges of coercion, implied threats, and attempted extortion.

After all, I do not respond well to threats, harassment, and intimidation tactics.

Needless to say, in view of the circumstances, I penned a review.

I don't expect it was the one Chalk Repertory Theatre was pining for, though!

Obviously, when you consider a comment an anonymous scoundrel tried to publish the afternoon the stinko run-down of their production was posted on my blog.

"You're a meanie," they lamented.

Ah, the Chalk Rep Theatre troupe and Ms. Liang don't know the half of it.

They fu**ed with the wrong person!

In view of what transpired over the past few days with demented Chalk Rep Theatre actors - and the diabolical Ms. Liang - I am inclined to refer to the production with a title that is more apropros under the circumstances.

3 C**ts, for instance.

To paraphrase a line from the musical Chicago:

"They had it coming."

http://www.julianayrs.com

Chalk Repertory Theatre...3 Sisters ragged theatre-in round! Amateurish Vanity production ego-driven! Meatballs excellent, though!

The Chalk adaptation was pitiful, wasn't it?

Anton Chekhov must be turning over in his grave.

Not only did the Chalk Reptertory Theatre company have the audacity to "adapt" one of his finest plays - 3 Sisters - but, they stupidly chose to cast a handful of amateurs in the major roles.
For starters, writer Susan Coyne lacks the talent to take on the task of rewriting Chekhov material, and this was demonstrated in full at the premiere production of February 1st.

Frankly, it was a God-awful night of low-calibre theatre, you'd be wise to pass on.

At the offset, Chalk Repertory Theatre founding members were a tad dishonest about the production, obviously, in a bold-faced effort to rustle up kudos and garner interest in their production.

For example, the publicity department boasted that the main characters would be played by Asian-American Actors, and gave the impression that this was a novel idea peculiar to their project.

In fact, other companies have followed this line of casting in the past!

Tsk! Tsk! Tsk!

You got found out, Chalk Rep.

In a lead role, actor Ricardo Antonio Chavira was confident on stage, but lacked the depthor ability to pull the classics off.

He hit his marks, was stiff on "stage", and played the part "on the surface".

At no point, did I ever catch the actor (Desperate Housewives) internalizing.

Nor did any true feelings, or insights, ever bubble up from within.

Jennifer Chang, as much as she desperately struggled to royally showcase her acting chops (see me acting, folks!) came across like an overbearing dragon-lady at times, and certainly was miscast for this challenging role whose elusive heartbeat she could not quite fathom, unfortunately for the audience who expected more.

A couple of the older actors were okay, being seasoned stage performers and all, so there were no qualms there. (Tom Kerry & Tony Amendola)

Terri Reeves was positively hideous as Natasha!

There was no pacing, or building of character - so whenever there were flat outbursts of senseless emotion( there were quite a few!) - they only caused the savvy theatre buff to cringe.

So amateurish!

A woman familiar with actor Cory Brill's past performanes, chided him for always using the same mannerisms and approach to a character.

Limited in talent, I guess!

Instead of a proper stage, the company chose a sort-of theatre-in-the-round approach.

On two sides of the stage (and inside of it) rows of spindly chair were stacked side-by-side uncomfortably (got-a pack 'em in, make those big bucks!) so that on occasion the actors wafted by in a theatre-goers' face.

On occasion, the audience was treated to a back and unable to hear the dialogue, as a result.

Not well-conceived, or just maybe, the Founding Mothers at Chalk Repertory Theatre have no creative vision or artistic sensibilities.

At the after party, I learned from schmoozing with the cast & crew that - for the most part - individuals involved in the production were Alumni of the University of San Diego.

Ah, that was it.

3 Sisters is a vanity production designed to showcase a San Diego student production in the "Big Bad Orange".

Thought they'd take the local theatre scene by storm, eh?

Well, it drizzled all night, ladies.

By the way, the meatballs were excellent!

http://www.julianayrs.com

Chalk Rep Theatre..."Three Sisters" production to star Ricardo Antonio Chavira of Desperate Housewives! Feb 1st premiere causes buzz...

When I received an invite to the premiere of "Three Sisters" - an upcoming stage production of the renowned Chekhov play - I was enthused about the project from the get-go for a couple of reasons.

The drama is generally cast in a traditional bent - but in the instant case - the director has taken an adventurous departure from the norm.

In Chalk Rep's adapted version, Asian-American actors will take on the challenging roles in a thought-provoking dynamic sure to conjure up a riveting night of entertainment on stage for theatre-goers.

At the center of the traditional Russian tale, the Prosorov family members are being played by Joy Osmanski, Jennifer Chang, Aileen Cho, and Feodor Chin.

And - "Desperate Housewives" actor Ricardo Antonio Chavira - appears in the lead role of Vershinin.

The cast is soundly rounded out by an adept ensemble cast which includes: actors Tony Aguilar, Tony Amendola, Corey Brill, Tom Carey, Owiso Odera, Teri Reeves, Adam Smith, Richard Tanne, and Eva Wielgat.

In the director's notes, Larissa Kokernot remarks:

“Three Sisters is a play about a family who is crippled by nostalgia, unable to move forward under the weight of their past."

Notwithstanding the dramatic twist in the scheme of things in respect to casting, the production is also being staged in a rather sacred space (the Masonic Lodge) amidst the old-world charm of the legendary Forever Hollywood Cemetery.

Just a scant few weeks ago, I attended the launch party for the Chalk Rep Theatre group, which was founded by five multi-faceted ladies.

Post: 12/18/2008

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/search?q=chalk+rep+theatre

On that occasion, the founding "mothers" elucidated their thoughts on the potential of the spanking-new theatre company surviving in carefree sunny California where the tinsel and glamor of Hollywood has normally - until now, anyway - been the major thrust for aspiring thespians breaking into the business.

Indeed - the human dynamos chatted up enthusiastic guests about their vision for the future non-stop that delightful evening - between sips of thirst-quenching cocktails, lively banter, and mouth-watering treats hand-baked by the homespun gals.

And (in-between hosting duties) the troupers managed to rustle up seed money that very night, so convincing were they in their pledge to enliven and enrich the local theatre community.

Break a leg, ladies!

Previews 8 p.m.
Friday January 30th
Saturday January 31st

Opening night 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, February 1st

Regular Stage Performances (thru Feb. 22nd)
Fridays: 8:00 p.m.
Saturdays: 2:00 p.m. & 8:00 p.m.
Sunday: 7:00 p.m.

(11 performances in total)

Location
Masonic Lodge
The Hollywood Forever Cemetery
6000 Santa Monica Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90038

Preview tickets: $20
Regular seats: $30.

Pay What You Can: Sunday Feb. 8th

Tickets: http://www.ticketweb.com/
Info: 866-468-3399

*Half price student rush tickets & Military discounts available at door one hour before curtain.

Chalk Repertory Theatre is dedicated to presenting classical and contemporary plays in unconventional spaces around Los Angeles. www.chalkrep.com

http://www.julianayrs.com

Forever Hollywood Cemetery...Spirited performance of Comedy is Dead! Dec. 4th!

In addition to their ever-popular Classic Film screenings, the Hollywood Forever Cemetery has ventured onto new - um - hallowed ground!

On Thursday, December 4th, showman Duncan Trussell presents the 4th installment of "Comedy is Dead" at the legendary cemetery.

Trussel conjured up the novel idea to stage a comedy show in a cemetery after he took in "Last Comic Standing" and realized that flailing Stand-Up comedy had been "murdered by the mass media".

"Comedy is Dead" features recognized comedians who'll perform in the exquisitely-restored Masonic temple.


Hollywood Forever - resting place of Hollywood’s Immortals - has made national headlines with its revolutionary approach.


In addition to fulfilling unique burial requests, Forever also provides digital biographies of its distinguished high-spirited guests, outdoor summer film series, and so much more.

Douglas Fairbanks' grave site is pictured below.

DJ Douggpound & Johnny Pemberton host.

Entertainers slated in the exciting line-up at press time include Sarah Silverman (The Sarah Silverman Show), Natasha Leggero (Chelsea Lately), Mary Lynn Rajskub, Howard Kremer (Dragon Boy Seude), Eric Charles Nielson (PhD), and A.D. Miles featured in the "Wet Hot American Summer".

Party favors included with the $10.00 admission:

*Top Headliner comedians
*Free Parking
*Mind Blowing HD Pre-movie
*Acoustic set by The Dark Matters (modern Americana rock band)

Doors: 8:00 PM
Curtain: 9:00 PM

Hollywood Forever Cemetery
6000 Santa Monica Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90038
323.469.1181

Info: http://www.hollywoodforever.com

Burials...separated at Death! Lest we forget...

When I was just a boy, I recall clutching my mother's hand as we strolled through a wide field dotted with a few humble headstones where they lay inscribed all around us marking the graves.

A slight breeze whispered in my ear as I struggled to keep up.

The Cemetery, in the West End of Toronto, was a relatively new burial ground.

There were no grand old oaks, just a handful of young samplings sprouting about here and there, straining towards the nurturing sunlight.

Years later, when I returned after a long stint in California, I was awestruck by the majestic trees that now touched the sky, rooted firmly in the rich soil below.

It was forty years since my last visit.

Unfortunately, I was facing a dilemma.

During a period after my father's death - while my mother lay ill in a Nursing Home - I happened to come across a certificate in her personal belongings (a beautifully-crafted document in ornate script) which confirmed she was to be laid to rest next to my father.

At the time, I recall being quite astounded by the wording.

IDA MAE HOLYOAK and VICTOR GEORGE HOLYOAK to be interned side-by-side "forever".

Gosh, I vividly recall saying to myself, "Forever" is a long time.

Unfortunately, there was a mix-up at the time of my Mother's passing - and as a result - my parents were separated at "death".

I was in California and out-of-touch with distant relatives when my mother - who had been in a vegetative state for about two years due to a stroke - suddenly succumbed and met her maker.

For some inexplicable reason, the certificate for the plot was overlooked, and my poor mother was buried across town miles from her beloved Victor.

Theirs was a great love story.

My mother was a farm girl from Brampton (Ontario) and my Dad was a fiddler who immigrated from Ireland with his mother and three sisters to York County at the turn of the century.

Unfortunately, due to a tragedy, my father passed away when I was a baby - and the troubles descended upon my dear mother shortly thereafter - without mercy.

Today, when I reflect on the situation, it's quite evident to me now.

In due time, I must take it upon myself to set things right.

Until my mother and father are side by side, their souls will never rest in peace!

I pray that they are patient.

*******
A happy man marries the girl that he loves
A happier man loves the girl he marries

Anonymous Author

The Shining...Halloween screening, at the Forever Hollywood Cemetery!

Talk about a spooky event!

The "Forever Hollywood Cemetery" will be screening "The Shining" on Halloween evening, at 7 p.m.

To avid cinema buffs, the film was Stanley Kubrick's most notable, knock-out, Gothic horror, film masterpiece.

The film, starring Jack Nicholson, caused quite a sensation when it was first released, but still reverberates today...a spine-tingling supernatural thriller that makes the heart beat faster, and capable of hurling the mentally weak into near insanity.

As to why he chose to direct the film, Kubrick noted,

"I thought it was the most ingenious and exciting stories of the genre I had read. It seemed to strike an extraordinary balance between the psychological and the supernatural in such a way as to lead you to think that the supernatural would eventually be explained by the psychological."

"If you can be frightened by a ghost story, then you must accept the possibility that supernatural beings exist. If they do, then there is more than just oblivion waiting beyond the grave."

Guess you'll find out on Halloween eve!!!