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Cortland Repertory Theatre Presents Revival of “Kiss Me, Kate”

Cortland Repertory Theatre presents a “revival” for the third show in their 50 Anniversary season, the well-known show “Kiss Me, Kate,” running from July 6-16.

Kiss Me, Kate is about actor/director Fred Graham trying to mount a musical version of The Taming of the Shrew with his ex-wife Lilli Vanessi in the leading role. Also included in the mix are musically inclined, gangsters. Featured will also be Cole Porter’s most classic tunes, “Another Openin’ Another Show,” “So in Love,” “Too Darn Hot,” and “Always True to You.”

Jahmar Ortiz as Fred Graham and
Briana Gantsweg as Lilli Vanessi.

Maclain Rhine and the company.

Leading the cast as Lily Vanessi is Briana Gantsweg, previously seen on the CRT stage in Born Yesterday and Rough Crossing. Playing Fred Graham is Jahmar Ortiz, who also continues their role as Director of Culture and Inclusion as they did for CRT’s production of Hair earlier this summer. Many different CRT interns perform in the production as well.

Kiss Me, Kate is directed by Mark Reynolds, who previously won the SALT award for Newsies (Best Musical), CRT’s record-breaking production of Footloose, Born Yesterday, The Rat Pack Lounge, The Kitchen Witches, and more. Choreographer Bryan Knowlton returns for a third summer after working on Mamma Mia! and Saturday Night Fever in the past.

Jahmar Ortiz as Fred Graham with Company.

The Cortland Repertory Theatre will also offer a “Friday Night Talk Back” after the evening performance on July 8th, with a Q&A session with the actors, director, designers, and crew. Tickets are also on sale for the rest of the summer season, which includes Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express and Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins.

July 11, 2022
Grassroots 30 Annual Festival Lineup Announced

The 30th annual Finger Lakes Grassroots Festival in Trumansburg is back with over 80 performers on five stages during July 21-24 at the Trumansburg Fairgrounds.

The festival is held at the Trumansburg Fairgrounds in Trumansburg which is located about 10 miles north of Ithaca on the west side of Cayuga Lake in the Finger Lakes region of Central New York. Since the birth of the festival, the guiding quote has always been “to create joy in the midst of crisis is a powerful thing and brings magic to the table.”

Grassroots was founded by Donna the Buffalo, and is a mission-based organization that focuses on nurturing local artists and talent while reaching around the globe to bring world music and culture to new audiences to inspire creativity and foster community building. Four days before the festival there is a Culture Camp, which helps community building by having attendees going to four days of music and dance workshops led by regional and national artists.

Grandstand of Finger Lakes Grassroots Festival of Music and Dance.

Headliners for this year’s festival include Donna The Buffalo, The Infamous Stringdusters, Galactic, Cory Henry, Marty Stuart, John Brown’s Body, Dobet Gnahore, DakhaBrakha, and more. There is music from every genre, including bluegrass, country, old-time, Latin, world beat, and more.

For more information about the festival and to buy tickets, go here.

July 11, 2022
Hearing Aide: SUSS “Heat Haze”

I’ve been listening to the Heat Haze EP from NY-based ambient country trio SUSS for about a week. If you’re a fan of ambient music, this EP does not disappoint. It’s five songs of soothing pads articulated with a variety of instruments, mostly string instruments, often played in repetitive loops bringing about a sense of calm and focus. For me, the title track conjures less of an image of haze than that of an old shack overlooking a swamp surrounded by lush green and hanging vines.

SUSS is a NYC-based trio of Pat Irwin, Bob Holmes, and Jonathan Gregg integrate their NYC roots into their music, playing off the similarities and differences between the Southwestern landscape (which influenced Night Suite) and that of New York, and in doing so, stretching the definitions of both “ambient” and “country.”

Reviewing ambient music is a challenge in that it is quite different from most other music. Most musicians want you to focus on the music itself, and hear all the interesting things the artists behind them are doing to draw you in. Ambient music is meant to put you in such a state that you are completely relaxed, not focused on the music at all. Heat Haze pulls that off. I really had to force myself to pay attention to what SUSS was doing. And even then, I would find myself lost in thought and not paying proper attention.

SUSS is credited with creating the ambient country sound, and the one critique, if it is even that, is that I have had a hard time finding the country elements of their music. Sure, there’s some acoustic guitar and even some lap steel, but neither are employed in a particularly “country” fashion. Two songs, “Grace” and “Train” hint a bit at some country roots, the latter perhaps teasing it a bit more than the former, but ultimately, I would bin this squarely in ambient without the country category.

My favorite track is the final one, “Pine,” which I can hear being the backing track behind a Nick Cave spoken word song or possibly in the middle of a Nick Cave & Warren Ellis film soundtrack. The plucked strings of what sounds like a baritone guitar add a nice dynamic element contrasted against the droning and whirling tones that make up the bulk of the song. It’s a haunting track; one that will be part of my nighttime routine, and perhaps present on my hot yoga mix, for years to come.

July 11, 2022
In Focus: Talib Kweli at Alive at 5

Real hip-hop was on display at the latest Alive at 5 in Albany on Thursday, July 7. Talib Kweli, one-half of hip-hop duo Black Star, was greeted to a warm reception on Thursday. Kweli’s large audience consisted of many who probably grew up listening to 90s styled hip-hop/rap. Backed by the band, The Whiskey Boys, many were brought to the feet with the versatile range of music on stage.

Not only was hip-hop on the menu this evening, there was also a fair amount of R&B and jazz performed. Kweli made time to demonstrate the complexity of each instrument on stage with solo performances. He also interacted with the crowd by not only playing some of his hits, but in paying tribute to Biz Markie, Ol’ Dirty Bastard and DMX. The show brought a lot of nostalgia and history to a multi-generational audience.

Talib Kweli was preceded by DJ Siroc and DJ TGIF. DJ Siroc played a nice set of songs, ranging with many hits from the 90s and early 2000’s. DJ TGIF was introduced by Mayor Kathy Sheehan, as he is one of Albany’s own. He kept to the unofficial theme with a set consisting of hits from Jay-Z, A Tribe Called Quest, and DMX. A dance battle broke out during the end of DJ TGIF’s set that lead well into the excitement for Talib Kweli.

If you were not able to catch Talib Kweli, his next performance will be at the Blue Note in Manhattan on July 12th.

Alive at Five returns on July 14 with Cassadee Pope featuring Sydney Worthley opening the show.

July 11, 2022
Nas Executive Produced ‘Supreme Team” Doc Premieres on Showtime

The Supreme Team documentary, chronicling the rise and fall of the infamous organized crime syndicate, premiered on Showtime on July, 10. The three-part docu-series — which was made available on the Showtime streaming service on July, 8 — explores the inner-workings of the criminal enterprise and its mob influenced structure.

In addition, director Peter J. Scaletarr (who holds producer credits on the Wu Tang Clan documentary, Of Mics and Men) probes into Queens history and their community ethos. Painting a vivid image into just how the men who made the Supreme Team famous came to be. Nas narrates (and Mass Appeal produces) and interviews Queens native LL Cool J throughout part 1 of the docu-series. While various members of the Supreme Team — including leader Kenneth “Supreme” McGriff and underboss Gerald “Prince” Miller, who are both serving life sentences — shared insider details.

The Supreme Team served as the influence for many of hip hop’s premier and most recognizable rhymers. LL Cool J, who is considered one of hip hop’s first superstars, mimicked the Supreme Team’s style and would frequent their parties and events in order to rub elbows with the popular hustlers. 50 Cent, who also hails from Southside neighborhood of Jamaica Queens, was fairly close to the Supreme Team’s leader, Kenneth “Supreme” McGriff. He was also a close mentee to one of the organization’s lieutenants, Black Just.

The Supreme Team’s mob like structure was a rarity among street gangs, as their aura gained them recognition throughout all of New York City. In reality, they were much more than a gang but rather a large syndicate with a meticulously planned out infrastructure.

Kenneth “Supreme” McGriff is currently serving a life sentence after being convicted for the murder-for-hire of Eric “E MoneyBags” Smith and drug trafficking. Gerald “Prince” Miller was indicted on federal drug charges in 1992 and is currently incarcerated.

Part 2 of the “Supreme Team” documentary-series will air on Sunday, July 17 at 10 p.m. eastern.

July 11, 2022
Northeast Jazz & Wine Festival Returns to Syracuse this July

CNY Jazz and the Northeast Jazz & Wine Festival return to Syracuse beginning in Clinton Square on July 29 and 30.

Sponsored by Berkshire Bank, the event marks the return of Syracuse Artsweek, which attracts over 66,000 people to downtown Syracuse every summer. The jazz festival will include a fantastic lineup of artists and multiple fine wines, foods, and other activities for crowds to enjoy. The event will begin at 5:00 pm on Friday and host a full program of entertainment from noon well into Saturday night.

This is the 19th jazz festival we’ve presented downtown in 21 years, and we’re glad to be back to start our third decade of service to downtown Syracuse, given the huge impact the pandemic has had on the arts.
Organizer and Founder of CNY Jazz, Larry Luttinger

With three stages across Clinton Square, and multiple genres represented including jazz, the event will offer something for all festivalgoers to experience. Both days are jam-packed with talent: swing music with the Ricky Alexander Quintet, a Steely Dan tribute from drummer Jerry Marotta, powerhouse artist Camille Thurman, international star Raul Midón, and many more.

Singer, saxophonist, and flutist, Camille Thurman

The festival is a great way for the entire community to come together, with other performances such as the CNY Jazz Youth Orchestra whose members stem from all over the city, and local school districts and colleges. The Northeast Jazz & Wine Festival is a wonderful showcase of some of the amazing things downtown Syracuse has to offer.

The Jazz & Wine Festival is one of the many great events happening downtown during Artsweek that brings together a diverse group of incredibly talented national and local artists. This festival in July and the Jazz in the City concert series have become staples of the arts scene in our community.
Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh

Jerry Marotta and his ”Reelin’ in the Years” Steely Dan tribute. Photo credit: Mark Steinberg

For the complete list of performances and schedules, see below. For more information and the complete list of wines available at the event, click here.

Friday, July 29

Main Stage

6:30 pm Ricky Alexander Quintet

8:15 pm Camille Thurman

10:00 pm Jerry Marotta’s Reelin’ In The Years

B WAER Mardi Gras Pavilion

5:00 pm Nick DiMaria & the CNY Jazz Alumni Jam

7:30 pm Nick DiMaria & the CNY Jazz Alumni Jam

9:15 pm Nick DiMaria & the CNY Jazz Alumni Jam

C WAR World Beat Pavilion

5:00 pm Michael Houston, Sam Wynn & Friends

7:30 pm Michael Houston, Sam Wynn & Friends

9:15 pm Michael Houston, Sam Wynn & Friends

Saturday, July 30

Main Stage

Noon CNY Jazz Youth Orchestra

1:30 pm Mike Passarelli Trio with Ally Rexine

3:00 pm Brig Juice Min-Corps

4:00 pm Easy Money Big Band

6:30 pm Lamb, Mack, & Sorgen Trio

8:15 pm Raul Midón

10:00 pm Jackiem Joyner

B WAR Mardi Gras Pavilion

5:00 pm Grupo Pagán with Jerry More

7:30 pm Grupo Pagán with Jerry More

9:15 pm Grupo Pagán with Jerry More

C WAR World Beat Pavilion

5:00 pm Sophistafunk

7:30 pm Sophistafunk

9:15 pm Sophistafunk

July 11, 2022
In Focus: Dave Matthews Band at SPAC

Over July 8 and 9, Dave Matthews Band (DMB) played two hot shows at Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC). Sold out crowds packed the parking lot and Saratoga Spa State Park each day before heading into the show.

The city of Saratoga Springs welcomed back DMB fans with open arms, as the economic infusion from the fan base is undeniable. Jambase noted the Friday performance was the 41st show for DMB to headline at SPAC, and thus opened the show with “#41.” Additionally, the band also began their encore on Saturday with “Pay For What You Get,” which had not been performed in nearly seven years, last performed on August 1, 2015.

Dave Matthews Band – Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) Saratoga Springs, NY – July 8, 2022

Setlist: #41, Seven, #27, Grey Street, Funny The Way It Is, Don’t Drink the Water, Typical Situation, The Only Thing, Dancing Nancies, Fool In The Rain, So Right, Madman’s Eyes, Improv Intro*, You and Me, Say Goodbye, Everyday, So Damn Lucky, Drive In Drive Out, Two Step

Encore: Some Devil*, The Maker, Shake Me Like a Monkey
* Dave Solo

Dave Matthews Band – Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC), Saratoga Springs, NY – July 9, 2022

Setlist: Bartender, Cant Stop, Proudest Monkey, Satellite, Louisiana Bayou, Sweet, Recently, Warehouse, Walk Around The Moon, Break Free, Seek Up, Sledgehammer, Come On Come On, Minarets, Lie In Our Graves, Crush, Rooftop, Ants Marching

Encore: Pay For What You Get, Too Much (Fake), Halloween

For the first night of their two-night run, Conor McMahon was on hand to photograph the band in action.

July 10, 2022
Festival of Possibilities to Begin on July 16 in NYC

On July 16 and 17, The Foundation for New American Art will present the Festival of Possibilities to the Lower East Side at The Clemente Solo Velez Cultural & Education Center.

Over the course of the two-day event, audiences can experience performances from artists all over the world, including from Africa, Latin America, and Asia. The festival is family-friendly and free for all to attend. On Saturday, July 16, the event will run from 7 pm to 10 pm and Saturday programming will run from 11 am to 5 pm.

The first day of the festival includes Tamir Hargana, a Mongolian Throat Singer, Columbian vocalist Maria Raquel, and Salieu Suso, an “edu-tainer” from Africa. After each of the performances, Phoebe Legere, the President of the Foundation for New American Art, will interview the artists in Spanish and English as well as act as Master of Ceremonies during the entirety of the event.

On Sunday, the festival continues with a full day of programming. There will be fun and educational activities and workshops for all. Some of the programs include Mongolian singing, Cumbia Villera, art workshops, drumming, Zen tango, puppets, dancing, and more. The finale of the event will see a performance from a pan-Latin Dance Orchestra.

Foundation for New American Art in NYC is using the arts as a source of strength, a path to well-being, and providing access and opportunity for people to connect and find joy through the arts.
-NEA Acting Chair Ann Eilers

The Foundation for New American Art is a nonprofit organization in NYC that is passionate about providing spaces for the artists of tomorrow. The multi-cultural arts, music, and educational Festival of Possibilities is a great way to do just that. For a full list of programming and more information, visit the organization’s website.

July 10, 2022
U.S. Postal Service Honors Pete Seeger with New Stamp

On July 21, in Newport, RI, the United States Postal Service will honor folk musician Pete Seeger with a unique stamp as part of their Music Icon Series.

The Pete Seeger Stamp from U.S. Postal Service

Pete Seeger, known for his American folk music and social activism, was born in Manhattan in 1919. Over the course of his long career, one of his most famous songs includes “Where Have All the Flowers Gone?” which became a hit for its anti-war stance. Other songs of Seeger’s rose to popularity in the ‘60s, such as “If I Had a Hammer” and “Turn! Turn! Turn!”

Seeger’s work as a musician and activist inspired many – including artists Bob Dylan and Tom Morello. His adaptation of the spiritual, “We Shall Overcome,” became an anthem for the Civil Rights Movement. The folk singer truly believed the power of song could transform and spur people into action for good and he continues to be a huge influence in music to this day.

The Pete Seeger stamp will be the newest and 10th stamp in the U.S. Postal Service’s Music Icon series which began in 2013. Other musicians who have been honored include, in order, Lydia Mendoza, Johnny Cash, Ray Charles, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Elvis Presley, Sarah Vaughan, John Lennon, and Marvin Gaye.

The stamp is based on a photograph of Seeger taken in the early 1960s by his son, Dan Seeger. With his iconic banjo in hand, Seeger performs in the picture as he did for much of his life. Art director Antonio Alcalá designed this latest stamp issue and the black-and-white original photo was color-tinted by Kristen Monthei.

A recipient of multiple Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award in 1993, Seeger will long be remembered for his music and his contribution to American political activism.

Customers may purchase stamps and other philatelic products through the Postal Store at usps.com/shopstamps, by calling 844-737-7826, by mail through USA Philatelic, or at Post Office locations nationwide.

July 10, 2022
Deep In The Valley Festival Announces Lineup

The Deep In The Valley Music Festival in Red Hook has announced its lineup. The festival will be held on August 20 at From The Ground Brewery.

The festival is a one-day celebration of music featuring folk, psychedelic, experimental, jazz, and indie music, with local artists and more.

From The Ground Brewery is a New York State Farm Brewery that is committed to using New York State grown ingredients. It will be a beautiful backdrop for the day of music.

The lineup features a lot local and national artists. There are also a wide variety of genres going to be played during the day. Dominick & the Family Band will bring their country rock music to the stage while Joseph Allred will have a blend of soulful bluegrass and fingerpicked folk songs.

Artists like Elkhorn will play deep psychedelic folk anthems, and Ashley Paul brings a mix of free jazz and shoegaze. The show will find Chris Forsyth pairing in a one-time trio with percussionist and perennial collaborator Ryan Jewell, and experimental luminary Bill Nace.

To end the show, Wet Tuna brings their dubstep tunes contrasted with Jeffrey Alexander and The Heavy Lidders’ wiry psychedelic Americana and experimental blues. The legendary Laraaji will bring the show to a close with a sunset set.

For more information about the Deep In The Valley Festival and to buy tickets, go here.

July 10, 2022

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