I was saddened to hear about the passing of the great Elizabeth Taylor. She was the last of a generation of movie stars, and a stalwart supporter in the fight against AIDS, even when it wasn't popular. But I most remember her from an encounter I had with her almost 20 years ago.
It was October 11, 1991. I was a student at San Francisco State University, and I had heard Elizabeth Taylor was coming to Macy's in San Francisco's Union Square to promote her new fragrance, White Diamonds. Wild horses couldn't keep me away from this event.
She was appearing at 1:00pm, and I had to skip a class to be there (how often does one get the opportunity to see one of the grand dames of the screen, after all?). Making it an even bigger event was the fact that she had just gotten married with great fanfare. Remember the widely televised celebrity-studded wedding to Larry Fortensky at Michael Jackson's Neverland Ranch? That was just five days before this.
The store was packed, and even though I got there 1.5 hours early, I was still at least 100 feet away. But I was still electrified the moment she walked into the room. She spoke about White Diamonds for a while, and afterward she answered questions from the audience.
My favorite moment was when someone asked her what she and her new husband did on their wedding night. Liz responded not with any words, but instead with one of the biggest, loudest laughs ever. Seriously, this cackle would put Hillary Clinton to shame.
I too asked her a question (albeit a much less memorable one). I asked her which stars of today she liked the most. Her answer: Michelle Phillips (strangely) and Julia Roberts, who had just dazzled everyone in Pretty Woman the year prior.
After her much-too-short appearance, she left, and so did the crowds. I, on the other hand, beelined to the stage, where I took pictures of her chair and the table she was standing next to during her appearance. That's when I noticed that she had left her drinking straw in her glass of water.
Needless to say I swiped the straw as a souvenir. (Who wouldn't have?!) It even had her lipstick marks on it. In fact, the story of this lucky souvenir hunter made it into the pages of the San Francisco Chronicle, in the column of legendary San Francisco newsman Herb Caen, no less.
I kept the straw for many years until I eventually donated it to my friend Tom, who I believe still has it somewhere. Makes me kind of wish I kept it. Oh well. I'll always have the memories. So here's to you Liz, your amazing career, your life well lived, and your drinking straw.
Showing posts with label Brush With Greatness. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Brush With Greatness. Show all posts
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Monday, June 28, 2010
40 Years of Disney Archivist Dave Smith
Last Friday, I read in the L.A. Times that Dave Smith, the legendary Disney archivist, announced his retirement. It was exactly 40 years and 1 day from the day he first started working for the company.
James and Disney lead archivist Dave Smith. (03/10/2010)
Smith began working for the company in 1970, just four years after Walt Disney passed away. His first assignment: Archiving the items in Walt's office, which had been off limits to anyone for four years.
This project led to a 40-year career archiving the storied history of the company. One of his most incredible finds was a small item found in the top drawer of the desk of Walt's brother. It was the very first ticket sold at Disneyland, which Roy Disney purchased for $1 in 1955. It was even marked with the number 001.
I was fortunate to have met Dave Smith recently at a D23 party. Our meeting wasn't a long one, and I'm sure it would not be very memorable to him. But it was memorable for me because I have an incredible amount of respect for this man, who I believe is doing God's work.
Best of luck to you in retirement Dave!
James and Disney lead archivist Dave Smith. (03/10/2010)
Smith began working for the company in 1970, just four years after Walt Disney passed away. His first assignment: Archiving the items in Walt's office, which had been off limits to anyone for four years.
This project led to a 40-year career archiving the storied history of the company. One of his most incredible finds was a small item found in the top drawer of the desk of Walt's brother. It was the very first ticket sold at Disneyland, which Roy Disney purchased for $1 in 1955. It was even marked with the number 001.
I was fortunate to have met Dave Smith recently at a D23 party. Our meeting wasn't a long one, and I'm sure it would not be very memorable to him. But it was memorable for me because I have an incredible amount of respect for this man, who I believe is doing God's work.
Best of luck to you in retirement Dave!
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Lounging with the Lakshmi's
Another brush with greatness! This time the greatness is Padma Lakshmi, the Indian supermodel and actress who has appeared in such varied projects as ABC's 2006 miniseries The Ten Commandments, Glitter with Mariah Carey and even an episode of Star Trek Enterprise. Tim and I of course know her best as host of one of our favorite TV shows, Bravo's Top Chef.
James and Padma. (04/27/2008)
Padma was making an appearance at the 13th annual Los Angeles Times Festival of Books to promote her cookbook. Our friend Christine was actually working at the festival that weekend (Christine manages the library store operated by the Library Foundation of Los Angeles, which had a booth at the festival).
When Christine's husband Tom pointed out that Padma Lakshmi was scheduled for a cooking demonstration and book signing, we were all over it like a bad rash.
Los Angeles Times Festival of Books. (04/27/2008)
I hadn't been to the festival before. I'm not typically much of a reader, at least when it comes to full-length books (give me a magazine, Internet article or blog anytime though). But leave it to Padma to bring me for the first time.
Her book, Tangy, Tart, Hot & Sweet: A World of Recipes for Every Day, is not merely a cookbook. It's really a life-long collection of recipes, travel stories and personal anecdotes that helped form her palate. Looking through it you really get the impression you've been sifting through a shoebox of memories.
Padma was reading from her cookbook 'Tangy, Tart, Hot and Sweet.' (04/27/2008)
Padma began her session with some audience Q&A, mostly relating to Top Chef. With the help of an audience volunteer, she demonstrated a recipe from the book: Mushroom and Goat Cheese Flautas, which she complemented with a Fresh Mint and Date dipping sauce.
Although we didn't get to taste any of the food Padma prepared, Tom, who was close to the stage getting photos, can attest that the food smelled terrific.
Top Chef host Padma Lakshmi reads from her book. (04/27/2008)
She also read a couple of the short essays in the book, highlighting some of her life lessons. Her readings were just as colorful and vibrant as the book's awesome photography.
I enjoyed her reading of a childhood story about the time she unabashedly stole roses from a neighbor's garden to give to her mom for Mother's Day, especially when she imitated her mom's thick accent. Seriously, it was as funny as when Margaret Cho imitates her mom! :)
Tom and Padma. (04/27/2008)
Afterwards, Tom and I dashed to the autograph line to secure a good spot before the rest of the crowd got there (even then, there were probably 50 people ahead of us). We were glad to see that Padma was posing for pictures, despite the no photography rule that was listed in the schedule.
Tom and I, of course, were prepared nonetheless, cameras in hand. As usual, Tom took a much better picture of me with his camera than he did with mine. But I think Padma looks better next to me than she does next to Tom ... wait a minute, I just realized I don't necessarily like the way that sounds! :)
Where Padma Lakshmi signed James' book. (04/27/2008)
I have the feeling Padma would have personalized her autograph had we asked, but we were careful not to take too much time since we were also posing for photographs.
Plus there was a long line of people behind us, and we didn't want to be like those handful of crazy superfans that show up to book signings and then spend a year with the person before moving on. Believe me, we've seen plenty of those types at signings by Liza Minnelli, Caroline Kennedy and Iron Chef Morimoto.
James and Mrs. Lakshmi. (04/27/2008)
After getting our pictures taken with Padma, we ran into her mother, who was standing nearby. It's now gotten to the point where we not only try to get ourselves photographed with celebrities, but also celebrity mothers!
It was one of those times where Tom and I were glad we were with each other, since neither Christine nor Tim would likely join is in approaching Padma's mom. (But at least we're not like those crazy superfans, right?) :)
Where Padma's Mom signed James' book. (04/27/2008)
Mrs. Lakshmi was nice, but a little surprised in our interest in her. She was even more surprised when we asked her to sign one of the photos that appears inside Padma's book — a little trick I learned back in the 1990s when at a Lorna Luft book signing, I had Lorna's son Jesse (Judy Garland's only grandson) sign his photo page.
But Mrs. Lakshmi was delightful, and happily signed her photo inside. Our encounter with Padma's mom only added one more interesting layer to an already fun-filled day.
Be sure and read Tom's blog post about our day with Padma. Also, thanks Tom for the use of a couple of your photos.
James and Padma. (04/27/2008)
Padma was making an appearance at the 13th annual Los Angeles Times Festival of Books to promote her cookbook. Our friend Christine was actually working at the festival that weekend (Christine manages the library store operated by the Library Foundation of Los Angeles, which had a booth at the festival).
When Christine's husband Tom pointed out that Padma Lakshmi was scheduled for a cooking demonstration and book signing, we were all over it like a bad rash.
Los Angeles Times Festival of Books. (04/27/2008)
I hadn't been to the festival before. I'm not typically much of a reader, at least when it comes to full-length books (give me a magazine, Internet article or blog anytime though). But leave it to Padma to bring me for the first time.
Her book, Tangy, Tart, Hot & Sweet: A World of Recipes for Every Day, is not merely a cookbook. It's really a life-long collection of recipes, travel stories and personal anecdotes that helped form her palate. Looking through it you really get the impression you've been sifting through a shoebox of memories.
Padma was reading from her cookbook 'Tangy, Tart, Hot and Sweet.' (04/27/2008)
Padma began her session with some audience Q&A, mostly relating to Top Chef. With the help of an audience volunteer, she demonstrated a recipe from the book: Mushroom and Goat Cheese Flautas, which she complemented with a Fresh Mint and Date dipping sauce.
Although we didn't get to taste any of the food Padma prepared, Tom, who was close to the stage getting photos, can attest that the food smelled terrific.
Top Chef host Padma Lakshmi reads from her book. (04/27/2008)
She also read a couple of the short essays in the book, highlighting some of her life lessons. Her readings were just as colorful and vibrant as the book's awesome photography.
I enjoyed her reading of a childhood story about the time she unabashedly stole roses from a neighbor's garden to give to her mom for Mother's Day, especially when she imitated her mom's thick accent. Seriously, it was as funny as when Margaret Cho imitates her mom! :)
Tom and Padma. (04/27/2008)
Afterwards, Tom and I dashed to the autograph line to secure a good spot before the rest of the crowd got there (even then, there were probably 50 people ahead of us). We were glad to see that Padma was posing for pictures, despite the no photography rule that was listed in the schedule.
Tom and I, of course, were prepared nonetheless, cameras in hand. As usual, Tom took a much better picture of me with his camera than he did with mine. But I think Padma looks better next to me than she does next to Tom ... wait a minute, I just realized I don't necessarily like the way that sounds! :)
Where Padma Lakshmi signed James' book. (04/27/2008)
I have the feeling Padma would have personalized her autograph had we asked, but we were careful not to take too much time since we were also posing for photographs.
Plus there was a long line of people behind us, and we didn't want to be like those handful of crazy superfans that show up to book signings and then spend a year with the person before moving on. Believe me, we've seen plenty of those types at signings by Liza Minnelli, Caroline Kennedy and Iron Chef Morimoto.
James and Mrs. Lakshmi. (04/27/2008)
After getting our pictures taken with Padma, we ran into her mother, who was standing nearby. It's now gotten to the point where we not only try to get ourselves photographed with celebrities, but also celebrity mothers!
It was one of those times where Tom and I were glad we were with each other, since neither Christine nor Tim would likely join is in approaching Padma's mom. (But at least we're not like those crazy superfans, right?) :)
Where Padma's Mom signed James' book. (04/27/2008)
Mrs. Lakshmi was nice, but a little surprised in our interest in her. She was even more surprised when we asked her to sign one of the photos that appears inside Padma's book — a little trick I learned back in the 1990s when at a Lorna Luft book signing, I had Lorna's son Jesse (Judy Garland's only grandson) sign his photo page.
But Mrs. Lakshmi was delightful, and happily signed her photo inside. Our encounter with Padma's mom only added one more interesting layer to an already fun-filled day.
Be sure and read Tom's blog post about our day with Padma. Also, thanks Tom for the use of a couple of your photos.
Thursday, January 03, 2008
Lea Salonga Shines in Southern California
Regular readers of James & Tim's Blog might remember my post about Susan Egan where I lamented about how my other favorite Disney-meets-Broadway star, Lea Salonga, seldom performs in Southern California. Well as it turns out, shortly after I published that post, I was happily proven wrong!
Lea Salonga had a rare Southern California concert appearance. (01/03/2008)
Lea Salonga was doing a rare Southern California concert appearance at San Manuel Indian Bingo & Casino in Highland, California. Although the location was about 60 miles away from where we live, I was determined to see this performance.
Lea Salonga was at the San Manuel Indian Casino. (01/03/2008)
Like Susan Egan, Lea Salonga perfectly embodies my love of musical theatre and Disney animated films. Born and raised in the Philippines, Maria Ligaya Carmen Imutan Salonga was a regional stage performer until 1989 when she was selected to play the female lead of a new stage production debuting in the London West End. The show turned out to be the megahit Miss Saigon, which thrust Lea into international fame. When Miss Saigon came to New York two years later, Lea Salonga reprised her role on Broadway.
Lea Salonga, with Simon Bowman, in Miss Saigon. (09/1989)
After Miss Saigon, Lea Salonga landed the role of Eponine in the Broadway production of Les Misérables, becoming the first Asian to play the role. She reprised the role of Eponine in London, and was ultimately asked to join the dream cast for the 1995 10th anniversary concert performance at London's Royal Albert Hall. Last year she joined the cast of the Broadway revival of Les Misérables, but this time as the older Fantine instead of the young Eponine. Even Philippine president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo flew to New York to see Lea in the role.
Lea Salonga as Fantine in Les Misérables. (2007)
But despite the thousands of musical theatre performances, Lea's most widely seen work is her work with the Disney animation studios. Lea was selected to be the singing voice of Jasmine for the 1992 blockbuster hit Aladdin. She followed that with the singing voice in the title role of the 1998 hit Mulan.
Lea Salonga was the singing voice of Jasmine in the Disney film Aladdin. (1992)
With a resumé like that, you can see why I was so excited to see her perform live. The icing on the cake was that my ticket was in the third row (and it was no small theater by any stretch). I got there about 30 minutes before showtime, but it wasn't nearly enough. The will call line was longer than anything I've seen.
Lea Salonga was the singing voice of Disney's Mulan. (1998)
Then you had to get through security, which was the tightest I've ever seen for a concert. Seriously, it was like airpot security. And don't even try to sneak a camera inside. If they caught you with a camera, they made you go to the camera check-in, which also had a terribly long line. As it turned out, the show started 40 minutes late. Even so, I barely got into my seat just three minutes before showtime (no joke).
The best picture I could get of Lea with my camera phone. (01/03/2008)
For nearly 90 minutes, we were dazzled by Lea's amazing voice. Backed by a 5-piece band, Lea performed a variety of songs, and sounded amazing. She apologized for not sounding as good as she normally does, since she was coming down with a headcold. None of us in the audience could tell. Seriously, she sounded fantastic!
She opened her set with "Something's Comin'" from West Side Story, followed by the ballad, "I've Never Been in Love." Afterward she sang a Filipino song called "Hahanapin Ko." (I'd estimate that at least two thirds of the audience was Filipino). Although I didn't understand the lyrics, it was a beatiful song.
I picked up Lea Salonga's most recent album, Inspired. (01/03/2008)
Next, she sang two songs from musical theatre roles she has always wanted to play, but never has. The first was one of my favorites: "I Don't Know How to Love Him," sung by the character Mary Magdalene from Jesus Christ Superstar. Her voice was the perfect fit for that song too. Then she mentioned she always wanted to play the title role in Evita, singing "You Must Love Me," from the film adaptation.
Afterward, someone from the audience asked her to sing something from Miss Saigon. She laughed and responded, "I have to do the Disney section first," upon which the entire audience burst into cheers and applause (me included). She talked about being the singing voice for Jasmine, but lamented that she couldn't sing "A Whole New World" because she didn't have an Aladdin. (She could have asked me!) Although she did sing a few bars a capella.
Lea Salonga signed the back of the CD sleeve for me. (01/03/2008)
But the highlight of her Disney section was the inspirational ballad "Reflection" from Mulan. She sang the song as it was originally written. She explained that how due to length, the song had to be shortened in the editing room. But we got to hear the full version, with all its verses and the bridge.
After the standard "Someone to Watch Over Me," she broke into one of the absolute highlights of the night: Eponine's ballad from Les Misérables, "On My Own." This brought down the house! Truly amazing. If you know the song, you know how sad it is, so to bring things back up, she sang "Taylor the Latte Boy," a cute, funny song about falling in love with a Starbucks barista.
Lea Salonga's self-titled album. (1993)
But the light, funny moment didn't last. Next on her set list was her big ballad from Miss Saigon that she sings to her son, "I'd Give My Life for You". There wasn't a dry eye in the house after that. And if we weren't already crying, she next sang Fantine's big song from Les Misérables, "I Dreamed a Dream." It was paralyzingly good.
After the tearjerker section, Lea closed her set with the more uplifting "I Still Believe in Love," which blended into the inspiring "Being Alive." After that the audience was on its feet, demanding one more. For her encore, she sang "Tomorrow" from Annie, her first major musical theatre role in the Philippines. It was a great way to end the show.
Lea Salonga at Glamour Magazine's salute to the 2005 Women of the Year. (11/02/2005)
If the night ended then, it would have been a great night. But making it even better was the fact that she was signing autographs after the show. There was a long line, but it was worth it. I didn't bring anything with me to sign, so I purchased her latest CD that I didn't already have. While she was signing it for me, I asked her if she was doing any more concerts in Southern California. Protecting her voice, she mouthed the words "I don't know." But if she does, you can count on me being there.
Lea Salonga had a rare Southern California concert appearance. (01/03/2008)
Lea Salonga was doing a rare Southern California concert appearance at San Manuel Indian Bingo & Casino in Highland, California. Although the location was about 60 miles away from where we live, I was determined to see this performance.
Lea Salonga was at the San Manuel Indian Casino. (01/03/2008)
Like Susan Egan, Lea Salonga perfectly embodies my love of musical theatre and Disney animated films. Born and raised in the Philippines, Maria Ligaya Carmen Imutan Salonga was a regional stage performer until 1989 when she was selected to play the female lead of a new stage production debuting in the London West End. The show turned out to be the megahit Miss Saigon, which thrust Lea into international fame. When Miss Saigon came to New York two years later, Lea Salonga reprised her role on Broadway.
Lea Salonga, with Simon Bowman, in Miss Saigon. (09/1989)
After Miss Saigon, Lea Salonga landed the role of Eponine in the Broadway production of Les Misérables, becoming the first Asian to play the role. She reprised the role of Eponine in London, and was ultimately asked to join the dream cast for the 1995 10th anniversary concert performance at London's Royal Albert Hall. Last year she joined the cast of the Broadway revival of Les Misérables, but this time as the older Fantine instead of the young Eponine. Even Philippine president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo flew to New York to see Lea in the role.
Lea Salonga as Fantine in Les Misérables. (2007)
But despite the thousands of musical theatre performances, Lea's most widely seen work is her work with the Disney animation studios. Lea was selected to be the singing voice of Jasmine for the 1992 blockbuster hit Aladdin. She followed that with the singing voice in the title role of the 1998 hit Mulan.
Lea Salonga was the singing voice of Jasmine in the Disney film Aladdin. (1992)
With a resumé like that, you can see why I was so excited to see her perform live. The icing on the cake was that my ticket was in the third row (and it was no small theater by any stretch). I got there about 30 minutes before showtime, but it wasn't nearly enough. The will call line was longer than anything I've seen.
Lea Salonga was the singing voice of Disney's Mulan. (1998)
Then you had to get through security, which was the tightest I've ever seen for a concert. Seriously, it was like airpot security. And don't even try to sneak a camera inside. If they caught you with a camera, they made you go to the camera check-in, which also had a terribly long line. As it turned out, the show started 40 minutes late. Even so, I barely got into my seat just three minutes before showtime (no joke).
The best picture I could get of Lea with my camera phone. (01/03/2008)
For nearly 90 minutes, we were dazzled by Lea's amazing voice. Backed by a 5-piece band, Lea performed a variety of songs, and sounded amazing. She apologized for not sounding as good as she normally does, since she was coming down with a headcold. None of us in the audience could tell. Seriously, she sounded fantastic!
She opened her set with "Something's Comin'" from West Side Story, followed by the ballad, "I've Never Been in Love." Afterward she sang a Filipino song called "Hahanapin Ko." (I'd estimate that at least two thirds of the audience was Filipino). Although I didn't understand the lyrics, it was a beatiful song.
I picked up Lea Salonga's most recent album, Inspired. (01/03/2008)
Next, she sang two songs from musical theatre roles she has always wanted to play, but never has. The first was one of my favorites: "I Don't Know How to Love Him," sung by the character Mary Magdalene from Jesus Christ Superstar. Her voice was the perfect fit for that song too. Then she mentioned she always wanted to play the title role in Evita, singing "You Must Love Me," from the film adaptation.
Afterward, someone from the audience asked her to sing something from Miss Saigon. She laughed and responded, "I have to do the Disney section first," upon which the entire audience burst into cheers and applause (me included). She talked about being the singing voice for Jasmine, but lamented that she couldn't sing "A Whole New World" because she didn't have an Aladdin. (She could have asked me!) Although she did sing a few bars a capella.
Lea Salonga signed the back of the CD sleeve for me. (01/03/2008)
But the highlight of her Disney section was the inspirational ballad "Reflection" from Mulan. She sang the song as it was originally written. She explained that how due to length, the song had to be shortened in the editing room. But we got to hear the full version, with all its verses and the bridge.
After the standard "Someone to Watch Over Me," she broke into one of the absolute highlights of the night: Eponine's ballad from Les Misérables, "On My Own." This brought down the house! Truly amazing. If you know the song, you know how sad it is, so to bring things back up, she sang "Taylor the Latte Boy," a cute, funny song about falling in love with a Starbucks barista.
Lea Salonga's self-titled album. (1993)
But the light, funny moment didn't last. Next on her set list was her big ballad from Miss Saigon that she sings to her son, "I'd Give My Life for You". There wasn't a dry eye in the house after that. And if we weren't already crying, she next sang Fantine's big song from Les Misérables, "I Dreamed a Dream." It was paralyzingly good.
After the tearjerker section, Lea closed her set with the more uplifting "I Still Believe in Love," which blended into the inspiring "Being Alive." After that the audience was on its feet, demanding one more. For her encore, she sang "Tomorrow" from Annie, her first major musical theatre role in the Philippines. It was a great way to end the show.
Lea Salonga at Glamour Magazine's salute to the 2005 Women of the Year. (11/02/2005)
If the night ended then, it would have been a great night. But making it even better was the fact that she was signing autographs after the show. There was a long line, but it was worth it. I didn't bring anything with me to sign, so I purchased her latest CD that I didn't already have. While she was signing it for me, I asked her if she was doing any more concerts in Southern California. Protecting her voice, she mouthed the words "I don't know." But if she does, you can count on me being there.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Susan Egan: The Belle of Broadway
As many of you know, two of the things I love the most are musical theatre and anything Disney. And no one person embodies those two distinct worlds better than Susan Egan, a Broadway actress whom I had the plasure of seeing in concert at Long Beach's Carpenter Performing Arts Center at the California State University of Long Beach.
Susan Egan and James. (10/25/07)
In 1994 Susan Egan originated the stage role of Belle when Disney transformed its animated film classic, Beauty and the Beast, into a full-scale Broadway musical. She further cemented her role in Disney history by lending her voice to such Disney animated films as Hercules (as the female lead character Megara) and Lady and the Tramp II (as the singing voice of Angel).
A recent publicity photo of Susan Egan.
Photo: Robert Milazzo
Although Susan Egan isn't the only one who successfully crossed musical theatre with Disney, she is certainly my favorite. I really like Jodi Benson (Ariel from The Little Mermaid), Judy Kuhn (singing voice of Pocahontas), Lea Salonga (singing voice of Jasmine from Aladdin and the title role in Mulan) and Paige O'Hara (Belle in the animated film Beauty and the Beast). But there's something about Susan Egan that just makes her stand above the rest.
As Belle in Beauty and the Beast. (c.1994)
Photo: Joan Marcus
Furthermore, as a Southern California native, Susan Egan is also much more accessible than some of these these other stars. I saw and met Jodi Benson at the Hollywood Bowl in 1996, but as far as I know, she hasn't been back. And I don't even know the last time Judy Kuhn, Lea Salonga or Paige O'Hara have performed in Southern California (and believe me, I'm on every event mailing list there is).
As Sally Bowles in Cabaret. (c.1999)
Photo: Joan Marcus
As if Susan Egan's Disney credentials aren't already enough to make me an obsessed fan, she has also dazzled Broadway audiences with her performance of Sally in Cabaret, which is one of my favorite musicals ever (she was the longest-running Sally Bowles on Broadway). Then in 2004, she took on the starring role in Broadway's Thoroughly Modern Millie, which is one of my favorite musicals of the last five or six years.
In Thoroughly Modern Millie. (2004)
Photo: Carol Rosegg
This wasn't my first time seeing Susan Egan. The last time was in my pre-blog days of 2004, when she had a CD-release concert at the Orange County Performing Arts Center's intimate Founder's Hall. She sang a lot of stuff from her CD Coffee House, which I enjoyed very much, although personally it was her musical theater songs that really struck a chord with me.
For tonight's show, I was even more excited than last time, since her show was called Susan Egan: The Belle of Broadway. You can't get more Broadway than that. And she did not disappoint.
My autographed CD. (10/2007)
Her set list included such musical theatre classics as "Everything's Coming Up Roses" from Gypsy, "How Lovely to Be a Woman" from Bye Bye Birdie, "My Funny Valentine" from Babes in Arms, the title song from Cabaret, "Heaven Help My Heart" from Chess, "Gimme Gimme" from Thoroughly Modern Millie, a Rogers & Hammerstein medley, a Disney Heroine Medley, a Beauty and the Beast Medley, and a score of lesser-known musical theater songs from newer songwriters.
James with up-and-comer Jamie Hartmann. (10/25/07)
One interesting part came when she brought her neice, Jamie Hartmann, on stage to perform the duet "In His Eyes" from Jekyll and Hyde. It was, in a word, fantastic. At only 19 years old, Jamie Hartmann has a fantastic voice and definitely has a bright future ahead of her. FYI, you can see them performing that duet in this YouTube clip.
Susan Egan also signed this photo for me. (10/2007)
Altogether it was a fabulous show. Susan Egan is just one of those rare people who seamlessly blends a bubbly personality, funny-as-heck storytelling and a delightful musical theatre voice. Making the night even better was the fact that she stuck around afterward to sign CDs and take photos. Meeting her in person was an absolute pleasure. Thanks for an awesome night Susan! :)
Click here to read my concert review of another Broadway/Disney star, Lea Salonga.
Susan Egan and James. (10/25/07)
In 1994 Susan Egan originated the stage role of Belle when Disney transformed its animated film classic, Beauty and the Beast, into a full-scale Broadway musical. She further cemented her role in Disney history by lending her voice to such Disney animated films as Hercules (as the female lead character Megara) and Lady and the Tramp II (as the singing voice of Angel).
A recent publicity photo of Susan Egan.
Photo: Robert Milazzo
Although Susan Egan isn't the only one who successfully crossed musical theatre with Disney, she is certainly my favorite. I really like Jodi Benson (Ariel from The Little Mermaid), Judy Kuhn (singing voice of Pocahontas), Lea Salonga (singing voice of Jasmine from Aladdin and the title role in Mulan) and Paige O'Hara (Belle in the animated film Beauty and the Beast). But there's something about Susan Egan that just makes her stand above the rest.
As Belle in Beauty and the Beast. (c.1994)
Photo: Joan Marcus
Furthermore, as a Southern California native, Susan Egan is also much more accessible than some of these these other stars. I saw and met Jodi Benson at the Hollywood Bowl in 1996, but as far as I know, she hasn't been back. And I don't even know the last time Judy Kuhn, Lea Salonga or Paige O'Hara have performed in Southern California (and believe me, I'm on every event mailing list there is).
As Sally Bowles in Cabaret. (c.1999)
Photo: Joan Marcus
As if Susan Egan's Disney credentials aren't already enough to make me an obsessed fan, she has also dazzled Broadway audiences with her performance of Sally in Cabaret, which is one of my favorite musicals ever (she was the longest-running Sally Bowles on Broadway). Then in 2004, she took on the starring role in Broadway's Thoroughly Modern Millie, which is one of my favorite musicals of the last five or six years.
In Thoroughly Modern Millie. (2004)
Photo: Carol Rosegg
This wasn't my first time seeing Susan Egan. The last time was in my pre-blog days of 2004, when she had a CD-release concert at the Orange County Performing Arts Center's intimate Founder's Hall. She sang a lot of stuff from her CD Coffee House, which I enjoyed very much, although personally it was her musical theater songs that really struck a chord with me.
For tonight's show, I was even more excited than last time, since her show was called Susan Egan: The Belle of Broadway. You can't get more Broadway than that. And she did not disappoint.
My autographed CD. (10/2007)
Her set list included such musical theatre classics as "Everything's Coming Up Roses" from Gypsy, "How Lovely to Be a Woman" from Bye Bye Birdie, "My Funny Valentine" from Babes in Arms, the title song from Cabaret, "Heaven Help My Heart" from Chess, "Gimme Gimme" from Thoroughly Modern Millie, a Rogers & Hammerstein medley, a Disney Heroine Medley, a Beauty and the Beast Medley, and a score of lesser-known musical theater songs from newer songwriters.
James with up-and-comer Jamie Hartmann. (10/25/07)
One interesting part came when she brought her neice, Jamie Hartmann, on stage to perform the duet "In His Eyes" from Jekyll and Hyde. It was, in a word, fantastic. At only 19 years old, Jamie Hartmann has a fantastic voice and definitely has a bright future ahead of her. FYI, you can see them performing that duet in this YouTube clip.
Susan Egan also signed this photo for me. (10/2007)
Altogether it was a fabulous show. Susan Egan is just one of those rare people who seamlessly blends a bubbly personality, funny-as-heck storytelling and a delightful musical theatre voice. Making the night even better was the fact that she stuck around afterward to sign CDs and take photos. Meeting her in person was an absolute pleasure. Thanks for an awesome night Susan! :)
Click here to read my concert review of another Broadway/Disney star, Lea Salonga.
Monday, October 01, 2007
Meeting Iron Chef Japanese
Tim and I went to Sur La Table in Newport Beach for a book signing by world-famous master chef Masaharu Morimoto. You may know him as "Iron Chef Japanese" from the addicting Food Network classic Iron Chef and the not-as-good-yet-still-entertaining Iron Chef America.
Iron Chef Japanese with Iron Chef Mexican. (10/01/07)
I've spent many a Saturday afternoon watching Iron Chef marathons, and Iron Chef Japanese was always my favorite to enter Kitchen Stadium. So when our friend Andrew (who works at that Sur La Table store) told us Morimoto was coming to his store, I was so there!
The book is called Morimoto: The New Art of Japanese Cooking and it's simply gorgeous! I don't know how much of it we'll actually cook, but it's great to browse through. He signed our book in English and Japanese, which looks realy cool. He was quite friendly in person, and totally at ease with his fans.
Cool signature in English and Japanese!
Some day I hope to eat at one of his two U.S. restaurants in New York City and Philadelphia. I'd also love to own one of his knives, which feature handles made of deer horn and forged steel blades that are made with the traditional methods of samurai sword making. But at $4,000 to $5,000 a piece, I don't think I'll ever get around to owning one.
Oh well, at least I have a signed book! :)
Iron Chef Japanese with Iron Chef Mexican. (10/01/07)
I've spent many a Saturday afternoon watching Iron Chef marathons, and Iron Chef Japanese was always my favorite to enter Kitchen Stadium. So when our friend Andrew (who works at that Sur La Table store) told us Morimoto was coming to his store, I was so there!
The book is called Morimoto: The New Art of Japanese Cooking and it's simply gorgeous! I don't know how much of it we'll actually cook, but it's great to browse through. He signed our book in English and Japanese, which looks realy cool. He was quite friendly in person, and totally at ease with his fans.
Cool signature in English and Japanese!
Some day I hope to eat at one of his two U.S. restaurants in New York City and Philadelphia. I'd also love to own one of his knives, which feature handles made of deer horn and forged steel blades that are made with the traditional methods of samurai sword making. But at $4,000 to $5,000 a piece, I don't think I'll ever get around to owning one.
Oh well, at least I have a signed book! :)
Saturday, May 06, 2006
A Brush With Greatness: Liza Minnelli
Today Tom and I went to a DVD signing by the incomparable Liza Minnelli — the event originally scheduled two weeks earlier that Liza postponed until today. She was signing the newly-released Liza With a Z, a made-for-TV concert she filmed in 1972 that hadn't been seen publicly for more than 30 years.
The one and only Liza Minnelli arrives at Barnes & Noble for a DVD signing. (05/06/2006)
Tim didn't come with me this time. He was only willing to sacrifice one Saturday for Liza. Fortunately Tom wasn't doing anything else that day, since Christine was with her Stitch 'n Bitch knitting group.
Showing off one of the prized wristbands and written instruction sheets. (05/06/2006)
The day started at 9am when they began distributing wristbands for the 3pm event. Only 300 were going to be given out, and there were probably 30-40 people ahead of us. Once we got our wristbands, we went off to get some breakfast and then headed back to Tom and Christine's place for a while until we had to head back to the bookstore in the afternoon.
Sitting in line with Tom and our recent Liza fan friend, Michelle. (05/06/2006)
Barnes & Noble didn't allow people to line up before noon. We didn't get back there until 1pm. Luckily our recent friend Michelle held a spot in line for us.
The first thing we noticed while in line was how weird Liza Minnelli fans are. Although they're very devoted, we soon discovered that for the most part, they have no sense of humor when it comes to Liza. I mean, you make one little joke about Liza, and the next thing you know they're looking at you as if you were Pol Pot.
There were many crazy Liza fans there, like one who had a remarkable likeness to Ms. Minnelli. (05/06/2006)
A good example of that is the Liza impersonater that showed up. Of course Tom and I instantly had to get our picture taken with him. And yet all the psycho Liza fans were telling us not to encourage him. Good grief, lighten up people! :)
But the one thing everybody in the room shared was the electricity as the clock ticked closer to 3pm. Because we were in line, we couldn't see the main entrance. But we knew when she arrived due to all the cheering and applause in the distance. About 10 minutes later — after Liza spent a few minutes primping — she entered the book signing area and everyone went wild!
Liza looked much better than I had expected, especially since I heard she had broken one of her toes a few days before. I was almost expecting a wheelchair. But Liza, who's looking pretty dang good for being 60 years old, walked in looking happy, healthy and energetic.
Here's Tom singing a duet with the real Liza Minnelli. (05/06/2006)
Michelle was the first one of us that went up, followed by Tom. Earlier in the day we had been listening to his Liza mix on his iPod, and I dared him to sing to Liza.
I said, "If you sing to Liza, I'll buy your DVD." And sure enough he did! And Liza was delighted!! "Keep going! Keep going!" she replied, even joining him for a few bars. Who would have thought that Tom, of all people, would end up singing a duet with Liza?
Liza signs James' DVD as Craig Zadan & Neil Meron look on. (05/06/2006)
Liza had just put on some hand sanitizer when I got there and reached out to shake her hand. "My hands are still wet," she said, shaking my hand anyway. I told her how much of an inspiration she's been to me. "Thank you, Darling! Thank you so much," she replied. Then she got distracted for a minute talking to Candy Brown, one of the dancers from the "Liza With a Z" concert who surprised Liza by showing up. As she chatted it up with Candy, I was able to pose for several pictures that Tom was taking.
Producer Neil Marron (who produced the film Chicago, as well as the Liza With a Z DVD) didn't let Liza get distracted too long. To get her attention back, he saw that I had a post-it note attached to my DVD booklet with "James" written on it.
"Are you James?" he asked, clearly with the intention of getting Liza's attention. It worked. "Oh yeah," Liza said, finishing her signature. "James," she said, looking up at me. "Thank you, James."
The autograph. (05/06/2006)
By the time we got out of there it was 4pm. It was a long day but so worth it.
The one and only Liza Minnelli arrives at Barnes & Noble for a DVD signing. (05/06/2006)
Tim didn't come with me this time. He was only willing to sacrifice one Saturday for Liza. Fortunately Tom wasn't doing anything else that day, since Christine was with her Stitch 'n Bitch knitting group.
Showing off one of the prized wristbands and written instruction sheets. (05/06/2006)
The day started at 9am when they began distributing wristbands for the 3pm event. Only 300 were going to be given out, and there were probably 30-40 people ahead of us. Once we got our wristbands, we went off to get some breakfast and then headed back to Tom and Christine's place for a while until we had to head back to the bookstore in the afternoon.
Sitting in line with Tom and our recent Liza fan friend, Michelle. (05/06/2006)
Barnes & Noble didn't allow people to line up before noon. We didn't get back there until 1pm. Luckily our recent friend Michelle held a spot in line for us.
The first thing we noticed while in line was how weird Liza Minnelli fans are. Although they're very devoted, we soon discovered that for the most part, they have no sense of humor when it comes to Liza. I mean, you make one little joke about Liza, and the next thing you know they're looking at you as if you were Pol Pot.
There were many crazy Liza fans there, like one who had a remarkable likeness to Ms. Minnelli. (05/06/2006)
A good example of that is the Liza impersonater that showed up. Of course Tom and I instantly had to get our picture taken with him. And yet all the psycho Liza fans were telling us not to encourage him. Good grief, lighten up people! :)
But the one thing everybody in the room shared was the electricity as the clock ticked closer to 3pm. Because we were in line, we couldn't see the main entrance. But we knew when she arrived due to all the cheering and applause in the distance. About 10 minutes later — after Liza spent a few minutes primping — she entered the book signing area and everyone went wild!
Liza looked much better than I had expected, especially since I heard she had broken one of her toes a few days before. I was almost expecting a wheelchair. But Liza, who's looking pretty dang good for being 60 years old, walked in looking happy, healthy and energetic.
Here's Tom singing a duet with the real Liza Minnelli. (05/06/2006)
Michelle was the first one of us that went up, followed by Tom. Earlier in the day we had been listening to his Liza mix on his iPod, and I dared him to sing to Liza.
I said, "If you sing to Liza, I'll buy your DVD." And sure enough he did! And Liza was delighted!! "Keep going! Keep going!" she replied, even joining him for a few bars. Who would have thought that Tom, of all people, would end up singing a duet with Liza?
Liza signs James' DVD as Craig Zadan & Neil Meron look on. (05/06/2006)
Liza had just put on some hand sanitizer when I got there and reached out to shake her hand. "My hands are still wet," she said, shaking my hand anyway. I told her how much of an inspiration she's been to me. "Thank you, Darling! Thank you so much," she replied. Then she got distracted for a minute talking to Candy Brown, one of the dancers from the "Liza With a Z" concert who surprised Liza by showing up. As she chatted it up with Candy, I was able to pose for several pictures that Tom was taking.
Producer Neil Marron (who produced the film Chicago, as well as the Liza With a Z DVD) didn't let Liza get distracted too long. To get her attention back, he saw that I had a post-it note attached to my DVD booklet with "James" written on it.
"Are you James?" he asked, clearly with the intention of getting Liza's attention. It worked. "Oh yeah," Liza said, finishing her signature. "James," she said, looking up at me. "Thank you, James."
The autograph. (05/06/2006)
By the time we got out of there it was 4pm. It was a long day but so worth it.
Monday, October 17, 2005
Rubbing Elbows with the Kennedys
Yesterday Tom called me and said, "Guess who's going to be at Dutton's book store in Beverly Hills doing a book signing tomorrow?" When he answered "Caroline Kennedy," I knew then nothing could keep me away.
James with Caroline Kennedy Schlossberg. (10/17/2005)
After all, it's not exactly every day that you get to meet the last surviving child of President John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Bouvier (Kennedy Onassis). So when an opportunity like this presents itself, you simply must jump at it ... even if it does mean driving in the rain for two hours to get to Beverly Hills (it's only an hour in good driving conditions).
Books compiled by Caroline Kennedy. (10/17/2005)
Tom came with me, naturally. He is the only person I know who would be as excited as I am to meet one of the Kennedys. We got to the bookstore with 15 minutes to spare. There was already a line, so we quickly purchased our books and got in it.
Yep, that's me with JFK's daughter. (10/17/2005)
I couldn't see Caroline from the end of the line, but we did spot her husband, noted exhibit designer Ed Schlossberg. I was hoping to see some of their kids (JFK and Jackie's only grandkids), but I don't think they were traveling with her on this book tour. School is in session this time of year.
Caroline Kennedy, with James at left. (10/17/2005)
The book she was promoting is called "A Family of Poems: My Favorite Poetry for Children." The book even contains a few poems written by her amazing mother.
My book signed by Caroline Kennedy. (10/17/2005)
We were still in line, about five people away from getting our book signed when things took an an amazing turn. It was at that moment that Caroline Kennedy's cousin — one Maria Shriver Schwarzenegger — walked into the store. Tom spotted her before I did and said to me, "There's Maria Shriver!"
James & Maria Shriver Schwarzenegger. (10/17/2005)
I thought he was pulling my leg, like he always does with his faux celebrity sightings. He replied "On my honor dude, that was seriously her." At that point, I couldn't contain my enthusiasm. That's two Kennedys for the price of one!
Look out Arnold, Tom is making a move on your wife. (10/17/2005)
First was Caroline, who like her mother, was very gracious and polite (and also somewhat guarded). She signed both our books and even personalized them for us (most of the time she would simply sign her name). Then afterward, we approached Maria Shriver who was talking with Ed Schlossberg and asked if we could take our pictures with her.
Caroline Kennedy signs books. (10/17/2005)
And like a good politician's wife, she was all over it. She was definitely more outgoing than her cousin, but I guess you have to be when you're the First Lady of our great state.
My poetry book signed by Caroline Kennedy. (10/17/2005)
By the time we left the store, Tom and I were high-fiving each other. All in all this event delivered like dominoes. I was so glad I was there.
James with Caroline Kennedy Schlossberg. (10/17/2005)
After all, it's not exactly every day that you get to meet the last surviving child of President John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Bouvier (Kennedy Onassis). So when an opportunity like this presents itself, you simply must jump at it ... even if it does mean driving in the rain for two hours to get to Beverly Hills (it's only an hour in good driving conditions).
Books compiled by Caroline Kennedy. (10/17/2005)
Tom came with me, naturally. He is the only person I know who would be as excited as I am to meet one of the Kennedys. We got to the bookstore with 15 minutes to spare. There was already a line, so we quickly purchased our books and got in it.
Yep, that's me with JFK's daughter. (10/17/2005)
I couldn't see Caroline from the end of the line, but we did spot her husband, noted exhibit designer Ed Schlossberg. I was hoping to see some of their kids (JFK and Jackie's only grandkids), but I don't think they were traveling with her on this book tour. School is in session this time of year.
Caroline Kennedy, with James at left. (10/17/2005)
The book she was promoting is called "A Family of Poems: My Favorite Poetry for Children." The book even contains a few poems written by her amazing mother.
My book signed by Caroline Kennedy. (10/17/2005)
We were still in line, about five people away from getting our book signed when things took an an amazing turn. It was at that moment that Caroline Kennedy's cousin — one Maria Shriver Schwarzenegger — walked into the store. Tom spotted her before I did and said to me, "There's Maria Shriver!"
James & Maria Shriver Schwarzenegger. (10/17/2005)
I thought he was pulling my leg, like he always does with his faux celebrity sightings. He replied "On my honor dude, that was seriously her." At that point, I couldn't contain my enthusiasm. That's two Kennedys for the price of one!
Look out Arnold, Tom is making a move on your wife. (10/17/2005)
First was Caroline, who like her mother, was very gracious and polite (and also somewhat guarded). She signed both our books and even personalized them for us (most of the time she would simply sign her name). Then afterward, we approached Maria Shriver who was talking with Ed Schlossberg and asked if we could take our pictures with her.
Caroline Kennedy signs books. (10/17/2005)
And like a good politician's wife, she was all over it. She was definitely more outgoing than her cousin, but I guess you have to be when you're the First Lady of our great state.
My poetry book signed by Caroline Kennedy. (10/17/2005)
By the time we left the store, Tom and I were high-fiving each other. All in all this event delivered like dominoes. I was so glad I was there.
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