A SPECIAL HOLIDAY PREVIEW:  The STRAND Theater 94^th Gala December 14^th AND My Day at The STRAND  by Calvin Schwartz   December 3^rd 2016

This article becomes one of those combination platter journalistic efforts, previewing the upcoming 94^th  Gala and delving into the inner workings and people behind the scenes at The Strand as well as reporting on my day exploring the sacred depths and heights of the theater, built in 1922.  I’ve said often, over the past five years, how much I love this theater, replete with that unique, rare, precious art deco ambiance. It was designed to be a Broadway theater because Lakewood back in the 1920’s and 30’s was a vacation destination and the thinking was to bring Broadway shows here, akin to previewing them. I’ve been to many shows and events at The Strand. The acoustics are magical; you can sit anywhere and it’s as if you’re sitting right up front.

Although I’ve been at The Strand often, as a reporter, I’ve never really sat down with the people that bring it to life nor have I gone to those depths in the pit below the orchestra where the music emanates from nor have I attempted to climb the multi-story ladder backstage to change ceiling light bulbs seemingly close to the clouds. Somebody in real life has to do it. I arrived at high noon on Tuesday November 22^nd

It was an old fashioned entry. I rang the street bell and was ushered in by Lori Davis, part of the team of programming energy, creativity and daily mechanics which brings life to the theater. Moments later, I was greeted by Fran Whitney, who’s also on that life line team. One of these days, I’ll write an article called “Women of The Strand” and include Dina Warren who also is part of the theater’s resurgence. Jesse Warren, account manager, walked with me up the front grand stair case. I could hear Annie singing at the top of the stairs. On December 2^nd and 3^rd, they’re staging ‘It’s A Wonderful Life.’  So my hero, George Bailey might also be waiting for me at the top.

Jesse and I sat in a second floor office, overlooking Lakewood’s main street. He’s always this young enthusiastic persona.  We talked 94^th Gala, and the amazing musical line-up for that night and other matters of greasepaint and roars. He thanked theater management, Scott MacFadden, Glen Harrison and Ray Coles for all their support.  Next, he phoned home, actually downstairs, to Chris Everett (absolutely not related to the former tennis player), and summoned him into the interview. Chris is the tech head, Jack of All Trades, the guy who makes people fly and who puts scenery and imagination into production. “This place would not be what it is. He brings this place to life,” Jesse added.

Chris told me, “We make shows happen. Caitlyn Nelson is our assistant. Emily Lovell is our house lighting designer. She puts on a harness, climbs to the ceiling, drops down and hooks to a cage. That’s how lights focus in every show.” Later they showed me the ladder at the rear of the balcony which leads into the ceiling and how she crawls into position. Did I want to climb up and be a good journalist and take some pictures?  “I’m always a good journalist, but a safe one with my two feet anchored firmly at ground level,” I softly responded.

Chris continued, “Tom Frayley does House Audio and Gianni Scalise is the flyman and rigger and positive vibe technician. He climbs a five story ladder and hangs out on a steel catwalk.”  Chris explained how this crew does the work of ten people. Adding to Chris’ all around versatility is the fact that in the production of ‘Beauty and The Beast’ he played a part.

My education of theater 101 behind the scenes continued. The crew has to learn everything before a production. Lighting and sound cues. They have five days to learn it all. That means 22-hour work days. “When it’s a musical production, we live for a week and a half here,” Chris proudly stated. He also reminded me that the technical director(himself) is also the house carpenter. His company is called Sound Foundation Productions.com.

Next was the inner sanctum walking tour to the basement level. Of course I flicked on the lights of the dressing rooms with all those light bulbs watching you put on make up. Imagination was quick to help me with my ‘Frankenstein’ make-up. Yes, I auditioned once when Reagan was President for that part.  An obscure doorway led to the orchestra pit and another small one led underneath the theater itself. It was a crawl space and I don’t crawl anymore. Gianni filled my sensibilities with lore of the theater; stories and legends of its rich history. Early on, a drug store occupied the area where the gallery is located now.   And we’ll leave it at that.  Back upstairs, Emily and Caitlyn were figuring out how to get the box of fluorescent light bulbs up to the clouds above to change the dim bulbs to new bright ones. When I stared up, I had to hold on to the wall for support.

It was time for Jesse to share info about the 94^th Gala which he’s been diligently working on. Big RoaD Productions would be responsible for the best musical line-up they’ve ever had including The Big Road All Star Band. This would be my third Gala attended. And as I do often at the conclusion of my emotional pieces, I exhort readers to get off their sedentary sofa and come on down to The Strand on December 14^th for a very special night. It really is.  Come for the Holiday Music and even the Dinner. Your choice. Here now the specifics of the night.

Wednesday December 14th Join BIG RoaD at The Strand Theater for “A VERY BIG RoaD Christmas” GALA NIGHT AT The Strand Theater!

The Strand Theater is proud to HONOR:

Thomas Jannarone, Owner Bar Anticipation/Attorney

Franke Previte, Academy Award Winning Composer (“Dirty Dancing”)

Steven Levine, Owner, WindMill Restuarants

Michael D’Elia, Committeemen, Lakewood Township

PERFORMING ARE : Bobby Bandiera, Lisa Sherman, Franke Previte, Jillian Rhys McCoy, Eddie Testa, Jobonanno, Joe Ferraro, Jt Bowen, Tommy Byrne

Band is: Ralph Notaro, Vinny Daniele, Joe Bellia, Arne Wendt, Tony Perruso, Bob Ferrel, Tommy Labella

Get your tickets now “A VERY BIG RoaD Christmas” GALA NIGHT AT The Strand Theater!

The Strand Theater

400 Clifton Ave

Lakewood, New Jersey

Tel: (732) 367-7789

Web: http://www.strand.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/StrandNJ

Produced and Presented by:

Terry Camp and Jesse James Warren for BIG RoaD

If you have any questions please feel free to call Jesse Warren at 732-367-7789, ext.204 or by email at jesse@strand.org.

FACEBOOK EVENT PAGE: https://www.facebook.com/events/105488179931786/

“A VERY BIG RoaD CHRISTMAS” GALA NIGHT AT THE STRAND THEATER!

The Strand Theater presents its 94th Anniversary Gala with “A Very BIG RoaD Christmas!” on Wednesday, December 14, 2016 – A night to celebrate this historic venue and enjoy lively holiday tunes with The BIG RoaD All-Star (Big) Band.

Tickets are $25.00 and doors open at 7:00 p.m. for the 8:00 p.m. show. Guests are also welcome for The Strand’s Gala Dinner and Cocktail Party at 6:00 p.m. – for which tickets are $100.00 (which includes an orchestra seat ticket).

The BIG RoaD All-Star Band is Mark Leimbach, Ralph Notaro, Joe Bellia, Vinny Daniele, Arne Wendt, Tony Perruso, Tommy Labella, and Bobby Ferrel. Vocals by Bobby Bandiera, JT Bowen, Franke Previte, Lisa Sherman, Jillian Rhys McCoy, Eddie Testa,Jo Boanno, Killer Joe and more!

The historic STRAND THEATER, a non-profit 501(c)3, is Ocean County’s premier entertainment venue. THE STRAND opened its doors in 1922 and it shines as brightly today as it did then. Located in historic downtown Lakewood, THE STRAND is easily accessible and offers a wide variety of live entertainment including concerts, dance, musicals, & theater, comic performances, and arts education.

Strand Gala Information- The Board of Directors of the Strand Center for the Arts are pleased to announce the celebration of the theater’s 94th Anniversary. We cordially invite you to join us for our Gala and Holiday Celebration on Wednesday, December 14, 2016. The Gala will begin in the Strand Gallery at 6pm followed by a live performance on our main stage at 8pm. Several area restaurants will be serving their signature dishes and cocktails will also be served.

MAJOR COMING ATTRACTION: STRAND THEATER 93rd ANNIVERSARY GALA. TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 29th bY Calvin Schwartz 9-21-15

A while back, I was invited to the Strand Theatre as a journalist. And so began my love affair to remember with this magnificent theatre, built in 1922, and a recent National Historical Landmark. Carry me back to the days when deco meant art with exquisite attention to a theatre’s detail. Sitting on stage, bathed in warm saffron chandelier light, I was in a museum, back to the splendor of 1920’s.  I spent that afternoon exploring the theatre; from sitting in a dressing room, bright light bulbs highlighting my exuberant face to all the trappings of the real backstage world. I love this theatre.

Suddenly the image of the movie Field of Dreams comes to mind (writing this) remembering I’m a stream of consciousness guy. So if the Strand builds (provides) great entertainment into their programming, then they (you) will come. And that’s exactly what’s been happening at the Strand. One of my other conscious thoughts is to exhort readers to get off the sedentary sofa and celebrate the Strand. Perhaps you live only once works here too; get out and enjoy yourself.

The Strand Center for the Arts Board of Directors cordially invites everyone to celebrate the life of theater at their 93th Anniversary Gala on Tuesday, September 29^th with cocktails, fare and entertainment by the fantastic Kevin Gilmore and Scott Solomon.  Tickets are $100 in advance by mail or purchased online ($5 fee per ticket). For more info:   www.strand.org   or lori@strand.org

Calvin Schwartz     9-21-15

Hal Sparks! Up Close & Personal! NJDiscover’s backstage interview –  from the Annual Asbury Park Comedy Festival.

Stay Tuned at www.ArtistNationTV.com for more interviews to come!!!

Tent City in Lakewood. The Movie Documentary ‘Destiny’s Bridge.’  A Movie Review and Personal Journey to Involvement. Premiere August 7^th at Two River Theatre in Red Bank   By Calvin Schwartz  August 1^st 2013

Right off the top of my frontal lobe, I need to say that this amazing documentary by filmmaker Jack Ballo, ‘Destiny’s Bridge,’ where he spent a year of his life recording the lives of the homeless in Lakewood, is having its world premiere at Two River Theater in Red Bank, New Jersey on August 7^th.

Journeys to sensitivity and understanding sometimes begin innocently with little fanfare and symphonies. On Easter Sunday 2012, I attended a concert of awareness for the people of Tent City in Lakewood passionately put together by Rosemary Conte. With my son, we filmed the event for NJ Discover. I had no concept of what Tent City was and the fact that around 100 humans were living in tents for years without electricity, heat or basic amenities because Ocean County has no shelters for the homeless. Tent City was 24 minutes from where I’ve lived for 24 years but that didn’t register in my frontal lobe. While listening to the music close to the staging area, a bus of Tent City residents arrived at the far end of the plaza for food and clothing donations. Minister Stephen Brigham brought the tent residents in his yellow school bus; that scene was still far away from me in several ways. I stayed with my son but saw people holding empty plates waiting on a food line. An image of President Herbert Hoover’s Great Depression flashed across my unsympathetic retina. Close to the musicians I remained.  It seemed the thing to do. When I got home that night, I forgot about the hungry homeless and talked to my family about the special Jersey musicians I heard for the first time.

Cut to January. Hurricane Sandy relief concerts were happening all over the Garden State. My past written words of support and admiration for Rosemary Conte and her wondrous musical and life contributions caught up to her; we became friends. She invited me to cover a Sandy benefit concert at McCloone’s in Asbury Park for NJ Discover. I interviewed her and then came an introduction to Sherry Rubel, concert organizer, photographer extraordinaire and Tent City activist.

Now it’s February. I’m at a place for coffee and conversation on a busy highway in East Brunswick, N.J with Sherry Rubel. Two weeks later on a very cold sunny day, Tara-Jean Vitale (NJ Discover producer) and I met Sherry across the street from the entrance to Tent City in Lakewood. We were packing TV cameras and microphones for our day in a new world. Patches of pure white snow from the night before looked like special effects. The dirt road was frozen; so was I emotionally. A thin veil of disbelief at my surroundings settled subtly around me. It was numbing; humans in the second richest state in America existing like this. Then I met Angelo, an endearing eloquent resident who invited me into his tent, briefly excusing himself, while I stood immobile and incredulous on how cold it was in the tent.  He went outside to chop wood for the wood burning stove which was not warming the tent well.  His bed was made perfectly. At that moment, in such brutal cold, where humans sleep and exist in the Lakewood winter, I thought about never being quite the same again. And I’m not. Something inside me aches (a soul?) from being overwhelmed. An hour later we interviewed Minister Stephen Brigham, a twelfth generation American. Illuminating and inspiring to us, he’s been devoting much of an adult lifetime to the cause of ‘Destiny’s Bridge;’ a journey to finding suitable and dignified housing in a self-sustainable community of homeless humans. I like using the term ‘humans.’

It’s not within the scope of this article to do self-intestinal excavation and journalizing my time at Tent City.  But a few months later, I was back there with filmmaker Jack Ballo and had a chance to meet residents and talk and listen. Uncovering his wealth of character and poignancy, I met Michael, a long time Tent City resident with his wife Marilyn. He was able to bring a piano from his home before it was lost and kept it under a tarp like on a baseball field in a rainstorm. He played Beethoven and Procul Harum, ‘A Whiter Shade of Pale’ for me. Enamored and drawn to his depth and warmth, I drifted far away standing close to Michael; I was still numb from months earlier at Tent City. It was cloudy and mild this day; easier for Michael and all the residents to sleep at night. But it is all hard; a very hard rain. I need to yell; maybe it will help me understand how and why in 2013 here in New Jersey this exists. Everything I saw that day after listening to Michael play the piano was visually a whiter shade of pale; hard to explain; perhaps a perfect segue to review the documentary, ‘Destiny’s Bridge.’

REVIEW:  DESTINY’S BRIDGE

I’m not a Siskel or Ebert. On the other hand, I have evolved over my tech noir years of ‘Casablanca,’ ‘From Here to Eternity,’ ‘On the Waterfront;’ where perhaps I’m now a contender to talk about movies. Part of the evolution side effect is a bit of snobbish attitude to viewing movies; can’t waste time watching ineptitude in film making and storytelling. Movie making is an art form and a great gift. The works of quintessential movie makers fascinate me. I’ll notice eye-brows moving and the wispy windy sounds of a tree next to a window as two characters are staring at the moon. I take it all in; pure cinematic absorption. I need to learn, emote and feel. Looking back, motion pictures have helped congeal my views of the world and changed my life. Watching ‘Casablanca’ for the 44^th time some years ago formed the basis of my first novel.

So when I previewed the movie ‘Destiny’s Bridge’ a few weeks ago, I found myself instantly riveted into the world of Tent City. My emotional ties developed quickly with the residents; sensitive caring humans looking for dignity and respect in a cold world. Jack Ballo seamlessly weaves their stories and interconnectivity of existence; how they depend on one another. I can say it was beautiful film making; vivid photography heightened the stark reality. You will learn about the harsh human condition of homelessness from this documentary.

Yes, it is an exquisite film which means sensitive, emotional, real and poignant.  Back to my being a snob about movies; I’ve since watched it again. You may need to do the same; the film delivers a powerful message about homelessness and Minister Stephen Brigham’s vision for a future. Then Jack Ballo’s treatise on the lives of some of the people; you grow fond and bond with them, maybe wanting to reach out and help. You care about their lives. The film is beautiful because it makes you feel something inside. It evokes. I love when I’m evoked to emote by a film.

It was a painstaking meticulous project for Ballo; a year of his life for the desire to make a difference. I look at myself right now at this point in time somewhere in a universe. ‘Destiny’s Bridge’ has innervated and moved me; therefore a brilliant work. There’s sadness in the final scene looking down from high above; in some ways leaving that homeless world below but also heralding an awareness that much needs to be done.  All my above criteria for good movie making have been met; I call it a contender. Here’s thanking and looking at you Jack Ballo.

Important Links:  http://www.destinysbridge.com/

http://www.ultravisionfilms.com

https://www.facebook.com/DestinysBridge

INFORMATION ON MOVIE PREMIERE:

ORDER TICKETS HERE ON LINE!! REALLY ALMOST SOLD OUT!!

http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/412674?date=859361

Advance online tickets for the film premiere of Destiny’s Bridge are nearly sold out!!

Best you order yours before the end of today. ($12 at the door) Wed. Aug. 7, 7p.m., Two River Theater, Red Bank. So much art & culture for such a low price!!

6:30 – lobby exhibit of photography by Sherry Rubel

7:00 – showing of this beautiful and important documentary “Destiny’s Bridge”

8:20 – Q & A; Introduction to the audience to filmmaker Jack Ballo, Univision Films; Minister Steve Brigham, and residents of Tent City featured in the film. Emcee is Dr. Michael Paul Thomas, Monmouth University.

8:45 – Reception, wine & cheese, piano music by Michael, a Tent City resident.

Photos for all on the Red Carpet.

DANNY COLEMAN from ‘ROCK ON RADIO’ and ‘THE TRENTONIAN’  (A Review) “Rock On! Matt Bogart of ‘Jersey Boys’ in New Show, “Himself and Nora”    May 6, 2013

As the wide world of NJ Discover expands its range, coverage and commitment to elevation of the people and places in our state, from time to time we’d like to welcome contributors to our website. And most appropriately our first such guest writer is Danny Coleman. Why appropriate?  Last summer, I visited Danny Coleman’s Rock on Radio Show and wrote about that adventure. Here’s the link to article:

http://www.njdiscover.com/wp1/2012/07/danny-coleman-rock-on-radio-a-live-radio-show-adventure-by-calvin-schwartz/

Danny is the quintessential radio host and disc jockey at Rock on Radio as well as entertainment writer for ‘The Trentonian.’  I’ve been to several of his live radio shows and marvel at his versatility and depth. And he’s just a lot of purist fun to be around. We spoke the other day. He was thrilled to cover Matt Bogart’s (from ‘Jersey Boys’) appearance at the Union County Performing Arts Center performance in ‘Himself and Nora.’  And we decided to spread the word here about Matt Bogart and his great show. Here’s Danny’s article from ‘The Trentonian.’    Calvin  Schwartz

Rock On! Matt Bogart of ‘Jersey Boys’ in New Show, “Himself and Nora”  By Danny Coleman  For The Trentonian

Sometimes I get an opportunity to interview someone that I just can’t pass up. Such is the case with this week’s subject, Matt Bogart. Some of you who have seen the Broadway play “Jersey Boys” may know him better from the role that he portrays in that production; that of the Four Seasons “Nick Massi the bass player.”

Bogart is taking a three week break from the bright lights of Broadway to star in the Union County Performing Arts Center’s Hamilton Stage musical production of “Himself And Nora.” Bogart plays the lead role of “Himself” a.k.a. Irish novelist James Joyce, whose drinking binges and rough style, along with his twenty nine year relationship with his chamber maid Nora Barnacle, led to his/their exile from Ireland and “condemnation of the Catholic church.”

Jessica Burrows plays the role of Nora, Joyce’s chamber maid, partner, lover and inspiration for nearly three decades. The play, the work of composer/writer Jonathan Brielle is directed by Michael Bush and has been so well received that “Talk Entertainment” called it, “exciting and truly an affair to remember!”

Bogart, who has been acting since high school, is the married father of two young children, one of the stars of “Jersey Boys” and a twenty year veteran of the stage. He has appeared in “Miss Saigon” as well as numerous other productions and is very excited about his latest undertaking, “I’ve been doing “Jersey Boys” since 2008, I’ve raised my family on it; it’s kind of like “Goodfellas” the musical (laughs). This, I think that this show is very special to me, it’s a challenging role. We are so glad to be bringing this to the stage. We’ve done it at the New York Theater Festival after we had first did a reading of it and five performances in Dublin Ireland. They don’t get musicals in Ireland that often so it went well, they were very interested in the form of it all. I really feel that this current production is the strongest adaptation yet.”

Calling “Himself And Nora” a “love story,” Bogart elaborated on his thoughts and what the audiences can expect once inside the theater. “To me, this is a love story. It’s a love story where the artist finds his inspiration through his lover, who is also his muse and becomes one of the greatest writers of all time. He (Joyce) found that the way she spoke and their interactions inspired and at times frustrated him but contributed to his writing. This is a musical, we dance a bit but not too much. It’s also the first show by the American Music Group in this brand new theater so we are all looking forward to it.”

Buoyed by the strength of the cast, writer and director, Bogart wasn’t looking ahead of this production’s current run when he spoke of his hopes for the future. “We are looking and hoping to move to Broadway,” he said. “I think it’s definitely ready. We’re currently looking for investors. This whole production has been great. The theater here in Rahway is modeling itself after the rebirth of Asbury Park, it’s remarkable. We have such a great cast, Jessica Burrows is a beautiful, incredible actress and with (Michael) Bush and Jonathan (Brielle) as the director and composer and writer; yes, I think it’s ready.”

Within that, Bogart seemed shocked that I admitted to having not seen “Jersey Boys” and he jokingly gave me some minor good natured ribbing. “You have to go see it,” he said. “It’s a great show, just don’t go in the next three weeks because I’ll be here; wait until I return, then come see it (laughs).”

“Himself And Nora” is currently running through May 12 at the Union County PAC on The Hamilton Stage located at 360 Hamilton Street Rahway. Ticket prices range from $30 for the Wed./Thurs. shows to $35 for Friday thru Sunday performances; students and seniors are only $20. To obtain more information and tickets, please go to   www.ucpac.org    .

 The Right Path Always Leads to Second Chances

by TaraJean Vitale

Finding “The Right Path” always leads to “2^nd Chances”, and with New Jersey-based filmmaker and father of three Nick Scochemaro, this could not be truer. His inspiring journey of redemption from the Bronx Mafia to a man whose only dream is to spiritually save lives has motivated him to create numerous award-winning films. After his successful film “Mourning on Charlotte Street”, Winner of Best Short Film in the NY International Film Festival and Winner of the Best Short Film in the Artisan Festival International, he wrote directed and acted in the seven minute film: “The Right Path.” This film was honored with the award for Best Short Documentary in the NY Independent Film Festival. Moreover, Nick, also known by his friends as “Little Scooch”, believing deeply in the relentless pursuit of his dreams is currently producing his next Feature Film “2^nd Chances.”

Back in the 1980’s Nick was well known in his Bronx neighborhood for being a tough kid who was always ready for a fight. His parents were divorced. His father was in jail because of ties to the mafia and his mother had to work two jobs to provide for Nick and his older brother and sister. Despite the ceaseless prayers of his Aunt Gracie, his brother and sister became involved in the local gangs that roamed the streets. Nick, the youngest sibling, was left to fend for himself in a broken family. His frustration and anger began to consume him, yet under all this turmoil was a young boy who had lost hope.

Dropping out of High School at 17 years old, Nick went to work, using his stepfather’s connections and joining the Union. Although he felt that earning a paycheck would satisfy him, he carried the torment of depression with him like the cross. Nick finally reached a point where thoughts of ending the pain with suicide consumed him. His short documentary, “The Right Path” portrays how one incredible moment changed his entire life. Recognizing he could not do it alone, he turned to God with a plea for help. Nick explains, “I released all my worldly control and gave all fears over to God.” After his story was released in the Film Festivals, Nick learned that it impacted many people’s lives and gave them hope and direction.

Focused on his creative vision and his desire to share his story, Nick won’t slow down; he wishes to encourage more people to believe in their greater purpose. He wants to help people find their strength to persevere through hardships and discover where they can find divine guidance.

After starring in numerous films, finishing a missionary trip to Melilla, Africa with 4 years of footage and many personal trials to test his faith, Nick “Little Scooch’s” incredible drive has led him to his present venture “2^nd Chances”. This Feature Film tells a story about three people who encounter pain and tragedy that push them to the brink of collapse. A child loses a father, a teenager’s dream is crushed and a nurse’s life is shattered. Each one decides that their only escape is through the act of suicide. This screenplay, written by Kevin Crowley and directed by Frank M. Calo will be filmed and cast in New Jersey in April 2013 and released in May 2013. Nick Scochemaro also has plans to produce a Christian Internet Television Station in the future. He is a man whose faith and trust in his guidance from God has led him to divine encounters with people who have aided him in accomplishing his true purpose in life. “God is working miracles everyday in my life, and God is doing working miracles all over the world. People just need to recognize them,” Nick Scochemaro.

UPCOMING NEWS:

Mourning On Charlotte Street is presently casting for it’s New York City Showcase.  Visit their website for more information: mocsshowcase@gmail.com

www.mourningoncharlottestreet.com,   www.therightpathproductions.com

Contact Nick Scochemaro #973-769-2625

www.therightpathproductions.com

TheRightPathProduction@gmail.com

www.freedomlandfilms.webs.com

Two in a row! Back in February my friend Toby M. illuminated me about the Two River Theater in nearby Red Bank. The play ‘Jitney’ was being extended and we went for the first time to Two River. It was a wondrous night. No need to repeat my review (here at NJ Discover.com) but, another wow; our theater experience became a two joys in a row such that it’s time to join. Last Thursday was Marlboro night, where residents of Marlboro, Manalapan and Morganville were invited to explore the range and offerings of Two River, which is literally in all our backyards.

This night Maureen McGovern from the Oscar winning song, “There’s Got to be a Morning After” performed her one woman show, “Carry It On.” My kind of show; a retrospective of her life from Ohio roots and Streisand, Garland and Judy Collins influences; infused with baby boomer memories from whence I came into music. Her voice is gifted; it hasn’t changed at 62 years. The gentle set flashed familiar pictures of history and family while she moved gracefully over stage and down aisles, talking and singing to the audience. Her father’s picture, an army veteran of the greatest generation, seemed to fuel her soul searching emotions.

My wife was teary a few times; ah gee, so was I. Her frankness and candor in words about lost loves and life’s professional wanderings were infiltrated with that glorious songstress voice; songs we grew up to. One of the pictures that flashed on the background screen was Dr. King and my spiritual leader from Newark standing next to him. My respiration slowed. McGovern sang Dylan, Carole King and others; with each cover, I drifted far away which is exactly what I wanted. She closed with the song I seem to quote a lot these days, “Morning After.” McGovern is back on the East Coast. She’s happy about that. And I’m happy about Two River Theater.

Ever hear the expression about beating yourself up? Well I’ve been doing that since Thursday night February 23rd when I saw August Wilson’s play ‘Jitney’ performed at the Two River Theater in Red Bank, N.J.  Here’s the deal. Early last week a friend messaged me on Facebook, that because of popular demand the play ‘Jitney’ was being extended several days and that I should see it. Well I do run around incessantly, taking in all I can find these last years and my friend imparts valuable judgment. I didn’t know August Wilson or his work. I ordered tickets and have never been to theater at Two River. Welcome to the beating up of this writer, a denizen of the magical state of New Jersey. How did I grow up, mature, absorb and celebrate new worlds of cerebral explorations without ever knowing the work of August Wilson? I’m so damned angry at myself.

On a jetty at the New Jersey shore I ponder the universe, environmentalism, trans-humanism, singularity, spirituality, parallel universes, vortex energy, and the list goes on but I never heard of August Wilson. I’ve listened countless times to the speeches from August 28, 1963 at the March on Washington and I wrote a novel about sixties urban experiences and yet I never heard of August Wilson. I aspire to be a renaissance man, dilettante and quintessential absorber of modern life so I play beer pong, do keg stands and run to the Hayden Planetarium to hear Dr. Michio Kaku or Dr.Neil Degrasse-Tyson speak but I never heard of August Wilson.

But now I have heard and what a wondrous night my wife and I had discovering Wilson’s work performed by an amazing ensemble cast at Two River Theater. Where do I begin? Well. Dinner in Red Bank; I thought we were in the Dolomites in Northeastern Italy; quaint ambience and obsessive attention to food taste. The theater experience was completely unique; it began 45 minutes before curtain with ‘Before Play,’ where actor, director and Professor Darrell Willis spoke about August Wilson in the lobby. Mine eyes were opening. It’s not within the boundaries of this article nor am I writing a term paper or a Times review but I felt the words of an amazing poet playwright rivet me to a seat; motionless and spellbound. (You might as well Google August Wilson and ‘Jitney’). The set design was so real, I wanted to drift on stage a few times to answer the phone. I love watching actors who are so precisely intense that their eyebrows even move in the middle of a scene when they’re not talking; they’re living the role. What a cast. How people in a 1970’s Pittsburgh car service (taxi) driver office depended, shared, learned from, and loved each other was movingly and exquisitely told.   Wilson writes about the African-American experience (he wrote 10 plays covering different decades and all but one take place in Pittsburgh). So now I know, appreciate and love the writings of August Wilson, and his ‘Jitney’ and Two River Theater in Red Bank and I’ll never look back; I’m done beating myself up and thanks to a friend for being an accelerant to learning more about life.