kikautown

The Drowsy Chaperone, Chicago, and The Secret Garden

2011-03-17T22:22:00.000-07:00

I have had such an amazing journey this year creating and seeing my visions come to life. I am so thankful for the opportunities that CMTSJ/Marquee has given me. In so many ways the company has developed my voice. I feel like I can communicate my thoughts so much more clearly because of the practice that these productions have allowed me to have. Nothing seems out of reach or impossible anymore and ultimately, theatre is a human business and no matter what the deadline is, there never needs to be drama. That is actually funny. There doesn't have to be drama in theatre.

Random

2010-10-31T10:25:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!

I am trying to be a better blogger. Even if no one follows me, I think it is important to have a voice and to speak.

I had the opportunity to watch Chicago on Broadway for the 3rd time this week. It really is such a great show. I am looking forward to seeing it again and again and again.

Once On This Island

2010-04-21T11:59:00.000-07:00

I have had the honor to direct and choreograph one of my favorite pieces of musical theatre ever. We open in ten days and I hope you have the opportunity to come and see it!

Tickets can be purchased here.

Broadway on Broadway---2010 Buick Lacrosse

2009-09-17T22:14:00.000-07:00

I filmed a commercial for the 2010 Buick Lacrosse this past weekend in conjunction with the 2009 Broadway on Broadway concert. Here it is. Try to find me.

Life After Tomorrow

2009-08-21T18:50:00.001-07:00

I am so excited. This week I got a library card for the New York Public Library. After living in one of the most expensive cities in the world for a few weeks, you start to celebrate the simple things that you can do for free. Since being here, I have seen a few free movies in Bryant and Central Park and have been discovering all of the inexpensive possibilities of New York. I borrowed a few movies:

Life After Tomorrow (2007)

A really interesting documentary about what happened to the girls who starred in the Original Broadway and National Touring Companies of Annie. Some went on to become personal finance managers and others went on to become Sarah Jessica Parker. In either case, their reflections about their experience auditioning and performing in the show were fascinating. At the time, it was the hugest show and they were so young. I truly recommend viewing it, especially if you are a fan of the musical.

Children Will Listen: When kids and the arts come together (2004)

This is a documentary following 140 students from seven Washington, DC elementary and middle schools as they produce a production of Into the Woods, Jr. to open the Kennedy Center’s tribute to Stephen Sondheim. I was particularly interested in seeing this because I directed and choreographed the show earlier this year with the performing arts department at the Harker school in Saratoga. This was really fun and Mr. Sondheim himself even come to opening night!

Summer Stock (1950)

My two favorite performers: Judy Garland and Gene Kelly! Summer Stock is an MGM musical that takes place in a barn. It’s like I’ve died and gone to musical heaven. This is the one with Gene Kelly’s squeak dance...brilliant. It is a must-see!

Inspiration can be found for free at the library.

9 to 5, Next to Normal, The Little Mermaid

2009-08-08T07:06:00.000-07:00

These are the three shows that I have seen since moving back to New York. I love theatre so much that I have made it a priority to see shows and to see them inexpensively. 9 to 5 has a lottery, Next to Normal was the cheapest seat in the balcony, and The Little Mermaid was a standing room ticket (You have to be at least 5'10" to purchase the standing room tickets because of the height of the obstruction). They were all great.

My favorite thing about 9 to 5 was Stephanie J. Block. She was fantastic. I loved the choreography, the set, the staging, but Stephanie was a highlight. Her voice was magnificent and she gave a genuine performance worthy of my multiple attempts to win the lottery and my applause. I literally wanted to give her a standing ovation after her song in the second act, but realized that might be a little too much enthusiasm for the tourists sitting on either side of me.

Next to Normal was brilliant. I understand now why it was nominated for so many Tony's. I loved the set and the actors, but more than anything, I loved the concept: a real family onstage. Needless to say, I was inspired.

And finally, The Little Mermaid. It was such a treat to see a friend from my past performing the lead role of a show on Broadway. Chelsea was amazing. I had seen the show about a year ago, but our seats were in the third or fourth row. With the standing room tickets, we were able to see the entire picture. It is such a beautiful show and I am sorry to see it go at the end of the month.

Go to the theatre. See these shows before they go away.

I heart NY again

2009-07-21T08:04:00.000-07:00

I'm back and more excited than ever.

The Who's Tommy

2009-06-13T15:25:00.000-07:00

I am now an Assistant Choreographer on a production of The Who's Tommy. It has been a full circle moment for me as I was a member of the cast the first time it was performed at CMTSJ in the summer of 1997. It is one of those special theatrical experiences of my life; one that I will probably never forget. So, to work on it 12 years later has been a dream.

I will be moving back to New York in July, so I won't be able to see this show in performance, but you can.

Into the Woods

2009-02-28T13:03:00.000-08:00

I am temporarily teaching at The Harker School in Saratoga. I am about halfway through my contract, which has just been spectacular.

I teach three classes throughout the day: two Acting classes for a combination of 7th and 8th graders and one 6th grade drama class. In addition to this, I am one half of a team in charge of the school's premier show choir, the Harmonics. Harmonics are made up of the best singers, dancers, and actors in the school, and they are all guaranteed to be cast in the Spring Musical.

This year's musical is Into the Woods. What a great show! Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine created one of the best shows in musical theatre history and it has been a pleasure to be working on it. We have two separate casts of twenty actors. The show performs the first weekend of May 2009.

Slideshow: Urinetown - Multimedia

2009-01-25T12:13:00.000-08:00

Slideshow: Urinetown - Multimedia

2008

2008-12-26T10:42:00.000-08:00

This has been an amazing year! I am not one to discuss my resume, but this year can be defined by the projects that I have been fortunate to be a part of:

Mummified Deer--This show changed my creative process. Cast as a non-speaking deer dancer/fetus/5-year-old in a straight play written by Luis Valdez, directed by his son Kinan Valdez and choreographed by his other son, Lakin Valdez, was truly a gift. I auditioned knowing that this was the only role I would agree to do. It was my first and last Mainstage show at San Jose State University. Kinan was a dynamic director, requiring only the highest quality of performance from the actors and production team. Luis Valdez was the first of three playwrights, whose material I performed this year, that I had the pleasure of meeting. Simultaneously, a documentary about the show was being filmed. It will be premiering at the 2009 Cinequest film festival.

Leader of the Pack--I choreographed this show at Willow Glenn High School, while performing in Mummified. I have had a relationship with this show since 1997, having been the first show that I was involved in as a performer with the Children's Musical Theatre of San Jose. I love the music. The story tells the life story of singer/songwriter Ellie Greenwhich, using her songs. I worked with director Ian Leonard, who is a long time friend.

Beauty and the Beast--This was one of the most exciting shows that I was ever involved in. I played an Egg Seller, a Wolf, a Fork, and I was the Beast's body double at the end. Working with director Glenn Casale and choreographer John MacInnis was amazing. Having mounted the show several times, they constantly reminded us of the importance of a new story being told. The show was fulfilling as an actor because it really felt like we truly created real people, not just characters and the audiences were so responsive. The show had several sold out performances.

Babes in Arms--While in Beauty performances, I held auditions for Babes in Arms at CMTSJ. When the company's season announced their season the year before, I knew that the only show I really wanted to be involved in was this one. I knew that it was going to be a challenge, but I was ready for it. I have an affinity for classic pieces of musical theatre and the opportunity to bring life to it with a new generation was a no brainer. I learned so many things about myself as an artist with this project. By creating boundaries and surrounding myself with only the very best people, success was our only fate. It was fascinating watching these 10-14 year-olds play characters that speak in a not-so-modern way.

The Full Monty--This was my second show with AMTSJ this year and was the definition of icing on the cake. I hadn't actually auditioned for the show because I knew that I was going to be in Flower Drum Song, so it was a very happy surprise. I had done the show a few years earlier, but this time I was to be in the ensemble and the Keno cover. Keno is the stripper at the beginning of the show. Monty was truly a blessing as it brought some fantastic new friends, got me into shape, and gave me some much needed money. I love the show so much. There is absolutely nothing that is extraneous about the show. Nothing needed to be added or cut: it is almost the most perfect piece of musical theatre. The playwright Terrence McNally came and spoke at SJSU for a day, as the school celebrated his works. His "Inside the Actor's Studio" interview just might be my most favorite moment at SJSU. I learned more from him about theatre than I had from any of my teachers in school.

Flower Drum Song--Being cast in this show was truly special for several reasons: 1) This was the 50th Anniversary performance of the show, 2) It was a 98.5% Asian cast, 3) My first Asian show, 4) (...and we didn't know this at the time, but...) AMTSJ's last show due to bankruptcy. For so many reasons, this was my favorite show with AMT. Working with director Gabe Barre and choreographer Vince Pesce, both Broadway veterans, was like the ultimate master class of storytelling. Whether it was choreography or staging, it was all done to forward the story and it was fun. Once again, nothing extraneous. I had the opportunity to perform with members of the 2002 Original Cast and to meet Nancy Kwan, Linda Low in the movie version, and playwright David Henry Hwang. Local Asian groups organized a huge party celebrating the anniversary of the work, bringing all both Kwan and Hwang to San Jose.

...and last, but not least...

Urinetown--This has been a true labor of love. I am directing and choreographing the show. The third show in a series produced and directed by SJSU students through a club called TRFT Independent, Urinetown is the very first student-produced musical. The project has been the culmination of a lifetime of experiences. I worked with the show in New York in 2002 and 2003 as an usher and I fell in love. I pitched the show to a group of teachers back in April, and from auditions to rehearsals the entire process has been a pleasure. The only word I can use to describe it is: synchronistic. The cast is so talented and it has been a true opportunity to play. The show opens January 23rd in the Hal Todd Theatre at SJSU and closes January 31st.

Thornton Wilder says "I regard the theatre as the greatest of all art forms, the most immediate way in which a human being can share with another the sense of what it is to be a human being."

I have been blessed a million times over in 2008, and my expectations are through the roof for 2009!

December 23, 1979

2008-12-23T00:00:00.000-08:00

I was born on December 23, 1979. This means that I have been alive 348 months. Or...10,592 days...254,208 hours....15,252,480 minutes...915,148,800 seconds.

I share my birthday with soap opera actress, Susan Lucci, founder of the Mormon Church, Joseph Smith, and flamenco dancer, Jose Greco. The qualities that I share with each of these people is, in itself, facinating. I have been one to known to exude "drama". I have led people to a new path and way of thinking. I also love to "shake it" every now and then. I am what I am. No apologies.

I have had many amazing birthdays, but this one might just take the cake. I am in the last years of my twenties: on the verge of having to decide what I am going to do "when I grow up". I am told that this is when my "Saturn is rising," an astrological phenomenon that happens only once or twice in one's life. And this is it. During this time, the extraneous people and things in my life will go and only who or what is "necessary" will remain. I don't know if I believe that to be completely true, but this has been a time of transformation and truth. With each day, I am becoming more and more comfortable in my own skin.

What do I know for sure?

I want my life to mean something. I will always choose the most creative path. I will always be a student of life. Saying "no" sometimes leads to the most amazing "yesses". Anything and everything is possible.

What do you want to be when you grow up?

This is Urinetown

2008-11-11T13:57:00.000-08:00

My next HUGE project is Urinetown, The Musical! I am extremely excited to get started on rehearsing the piece as it will mark the end of my college career and will be the beginning of what I hope will be a future of working on fun and interesting, thought provoking pieces.

The idea to do this show at San Jose State University started in 2001, when I worked as an usher at the Henry Miller Theatre in New York City during the show's Broadway run. I simply fell in love with the show and never grew tired of seeing it every day. I knew that the show was different than anything I had ever seen in musical theatre, while paying homage to all of the shows that made musical theatre what it is today.

My time at SJSU has been perfect. I have had the opportunity to perform in their 2008 production of Luis Valdez's Mummified Deer, while filming a documentary of the work. I have been able to work with several notable local theatre professionals and I have had the opportunity to play and work on my craft. Directing and choreographing musical theatre is my greatest passion and Urinetown, so far has been the pinnacle of all of my previous work.

I proposed the work in April of this year as a possible TRFT Independent show to follow the success of Picasso at the Lapine Agile and An Evening With Shel Silverstein, expecting denial, but was surprised to see the material and my direction of it embraced. It has been several years that a full-blown musical has been produced.

We cast the show in September. The cast is brilliant.

Officer Lockstock...............Josh Marx

Penelope Pennywise..........Amy Lizardo
Bobby Strong....................Kevin Wulf
Little Sally.........................Lizzie O’Hara
Mr. McQueen....................Michael Coco
Senator Fipp......................Adam Sessa
Officer Barrel....................Joseph Baratta
Hope Cladwell.................. Kristen Majetich
Tiny Tom..........................Andrew Booth
Soupy Sue.........................Stephanie Walker
Little Becky Two Shoes......Michelle Foletta
Robby The Stockfish..........Philip Nguyen
Caldwell B. Cladwell...........Larry Barrot
Josephine Strong..............Vanessa Alvarez
Hot Blades Harry............. Luke Sharkey
Old Man Strong.................Cory Censoprano
Billy Boy Bill......................Jose Gonzalez
Old Woman....................... Nicole Squires
Dr. Billeaux.......................Andrew Booth
Mrs. Millennium...............Christina Rodriguez
Mrs. Rosenbloom..............Monique Warren

My hope is that the show will find a success with audiences and that this will further opportunities for those who desire to produce their own passions.

Here is some information:

January 23, 24, 28, 29, 30, 31 at 7pm
January 24, 30, 31 at 2pm

$10 Students/Seniors
$20 General Admission

Tickets are available at the door, The San Jose Event Center Box Office, or Ticketmaster.com
Parking is available in the garage on 4th and San Fernando above Flames

Flower Drum Song: A Hundred Million Miracles

2008-11-07T09:43:00.000-08:00

I have been working on Flower Drum Song at The American Musical Theatre of San Jose and it truly has been a blessing. I knew I was going to be performing in the show since May of this year during Beauty and the Beast, and I had been really looking forward to it.

First of all, it was my first Asian show. Now the argument can be made that because I am of Asian decent (Filipino and Hawaiian), every show I am in is an Asian one, but this was the first time that I was working with a 99.9% Asian cast. This fact made the entire process that much more fulfilling. There was a common experience in our families and lives as performers. Each day of this project has felt like history is being made. We all would not be here doing what we love if our families did not immigrate from wherever they came from.

Second, this has been a time of transformation in this country. With "change" around the corner in President Obama, it feels like anything is possible. It is exciting.

Each night I have an opportunity to tell the story of a people who have experienced oppression and discrimination. Flower Drum Song is a celebration of life and a demonstration of how far we have come.

The Full Monty

2008-09-27T11:09:00.001-07:00

I am currently in performances of an amazing production of The Full Monty at the American Musical Theatre of San Jose. First of all, it is such a fun show to be a part of, but when you add the talent of the cast, the experience is just ridiculous. I play several roles in the Ensemble, going from a Steel Worker to a Stripper, Ballroom Dance Student to a Repo Man, topping it all off with a Police Sergeant. All I need is some Native American garb and I would single-handedly revive The Villiage People. I also understudy this guy! Seriously.
I have four performances of the show left and I am going to enjoy every second of them!

I Heart New York

2008-08-01T20:24:00.000-07:00

I just had a fantastic vacation in New York City--the center of the Universe! I just loved every second. I was able to revisit places that I fell in love with when I lived there from 1998 to 2003, For one, the Central Park Zoo should be mandatory for everyone to see. You can't go wrong with a polar bear swimming in the middle of the park! I did things that I had never done before--like the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Every inch of that place is a source of inspiration. Another New York City thing is the outdoor movie: Wallace and Gromit and the Were-Rabbit was a charming treat at the Brooklyn Bridge Park on a nice summer evening. And I was able to see some of my favorite people in the world: new and old friends seemed to have heard the call of the city and I was so grateful that I was able to spend time with all of them.

As always, I try to see as many shows as possible. This trip was no different. 9 shows over 9 days. I saw A Chorus Line, The Little Mermaid, Xanadu, Mary Poppins, In the Heights, Legally Blonde, [title of show], Hair, and Boeing-Boeing. I loved them all, but there were a few standouts. Xanadu is simply brilliant, In the Heights deserved every single award it won, Hair was absolutely worth the 7 and 1/2 hours I waited in the park for the free ticket, and [title of show] will win next year's Tony for Best Musical. I fell in love with the city once again.

Babes in Arms

2008-07-19T09:56:00.000-07:00

This summer I have been working on a project with about 140 10-14 year olds called, Babes in Arms. As this production's Director and Choreographer, I have had several challenges, but in the end--it was all worth it.

My first challenge was the material itself. In order to bring the 1930's to the stage, I had to commit to the integrity of the time period in all aspects of production. Many concepts were presented. An early example was the idea that the entire musical would be done in black and white. The thought, while fun, would be near impossible, as I wouldn't be satisfied without complete perfection. In other words, it had to be done right.

Another challenge was the fact that I had to separate 140 actors into two casts of 70 with slots for only about 30. The Chlidren's Musical Theatre of San Jose has had a forty year policy of casting all who audition. I know that this is a daunting task having been involved with the company for over 12 years as an Actor, Choreographer, and now Director/Choreographer. Having done this several times, it truly is like doing a puzzle. I believe that casting is going to determine how the entire show goes: the right people will make my job easy or hard. In this case, I chose easy.

This new breed of young performer comes to auditions having done their homework. For the most part, these kids have spent about a year listening to the soundtrack of the piece after the season's shows are announced. Babes in Arms, may have fallen into a strange category, in that, knowledge of the piece was available in the form of the Mickey Rooney-Judy Garland film made in 1937. The movie acknowledges the style and characters, but tells an entirely different story.

The last challenge was the maintaining of the integrity of my positions as both Director and Choreographer. I wanted to make sure that I was able to focus on both, while not letting one side suffer. And ultimately, although my job was to fulfill these two roles, a theatre artist's life is often very gray. An exact title would be something like Director-Choreographer-Motivational Speaker-Negotiator-Set Decorator-Fabric Selector-Friend-Firefighter-Cheerleader.

Between the ages of 10 and 14, I, myself, fell in love with the world of theatre and I know that the passion I have for it will continue for the rest of my life. At this point, theatre is in my bone marrow. With the final performances of Babes in Arms happening this weekend, I can't help but be reminded of my purpose in the world and how truly lucky I am to be doing what I do.

Here is an article about the Babes in Arms in The Almaden Times Weekly.

Radiohead

2008-07-04T09:58:00.000-07:00

On October 10th, 2007, Radiohead, a famous band from England, shook the music industry to its core. They released their seventh album “In Rainbows” directly to their fans allowing them to pay whatever they wanted to pay, with the smallest amount being one dollar, to pay for credit card fees. Because they are an established band with a fairly large fan base, this was a revolutionary move.

Interestingly enough, a music artist makes about one dollar per each $16.98 album sold. Removing the middle man makes my choice as a fan and consumer that much more important. Never before have we been able to decide an album‘s worth.

Although it wasn’t the best job, working as a waiter was interesting because there is an immediate response to your service in the form of monetary gratuity at the end of a guest’s meal. If they liked the food and your service and essentially the atmosphere of the restaurant, that would be reflected in the tips I received.

I think other music artists should follow this example. This would force them to not settle for mediocre work. Rather than being slaves to their distribution companies or to the industry, they would be working for the people. If what they are releasing is actually good, then people will pay for it.

Kramer vs. Kramer

2008-07-04T01:00:00.000-07:00

Kramer vs. Kramer, a movie released only four days after the day I was born in 1979, was something that I was assigned to watch in high school in the late nineties. And recently, I viewed it again for my media and culture class at San Jose State University. Although we were warned about the potentially dated material, I found the movie just as fresh as it was the first time I saw it.

When life becomes too complicated for Joanna, played by Meryl Streep, she feels the need to leave her family behind to “find herself.” Her decision to leave changes the lives of her husband Ted, played by Dustin Hoffman, and her son Billy, played by Justin Henry. The movie is told from the perspective of Ted, as we see the greatest transition in him--from overworked ad executive to devoted father in a matter of months. Despite this, our sympathies toward Joanna are activated, when she returns to reclaim the son she leaves. Needless to say, it becomes even more complicated when Joanna challenges Ted’s rights to custody, when most cases of this type almost always favor the mother.

Kramer vs. Kramer toys with our societal misconceptions about the roles that a man and a woman can play. The way of life that this movie explores is one in which a man can serve the function of both father and mother. The story is constructed in such a way that Ted Kramer is simply doing what he has to do to survive. He must take care of his son, no matter what. While he finds this difficult at times, the audience can see the payoff in the character’s happiness and in the bond that he has with his son. He is not a bad person.

By introducing the character of Margaret Phelps, a close friend and neighbor, played by Jane Alexander, it is clear that a woman can do the same. Presenting an equal representation of a single matriarchal household, makes any perception about a man’s role unimportant, and sets us up for the trial.

When it came time for the case to be heard, in a way, the moviegoer becomes the judge. Although I had seen it once before, I didn’t quite remember who won. As in life, sometimes things are not always black and white, and during the trial, I realized how gray this particular case was.

The choice of the judge to side with the mother made me think that he only did so because of her sex. The injustice was apparent because we spent an hour and a half watching a father simply raise his son. This is what makes the film a classic. It captivated my attention and made me feel like I was personally invested in this family. Kramer vs. Kramer is an excellent example of how a film can be entertaining , and have a clear message about something more important.

The world in 1979 was certainly different than it is today, and certain things about the movie were, in fact, dated--like the fashion and the salaries-- but ultimately Kramer vs. Kramer brings attention to the universal theme of sexual perception, which makes it worth seeing...again...and again.

Media on the Prairie

2008-06-27T10:44:00.000-07:00

Tim Robbins, an Academy Award winner, gave a keynote speech on April 14, 2008 at the National Broadcasters Association. The speech discussed the duty of the organization to change the “landscape” of the media, demanding that they choose to produce and promote material that was positive--perhaps educational--rather than negative and destructive. This speech does hark back to the speech given by Edward R. Murrow in the film Good Night and Good Luck, which indicates how far we, as a society, have yet to go.

One example of a current show, that I suspect Robbins would approve of, is the Canadian sitcom Little Mosque on the Prairie. The show is about members of the Muslim community living in a rural town. Although it has its funny moments, I am not so sure that the show would be as successful in America. Not because of the tension that may or may not exist between cultures, but rather because it is not really that good of a show.

The plots of both of the season one episodes that we watched in class seemed to be fairly predictable, and while it has its appeal and clear didactic message, it lacks in production value and edginess. As an audience, Americans are accustomed to a high quality of entertainment. I agree that it is important to have shows that show different cultures and people from different walks of life, but rather that being in your face with its message, can’t the message be a little more subtle? I believe that what we see on television can be a positive, uplifting experience---and good too!

"Filthy Words"

2008-06-26T11:38:00.000-07:00

George Carlin died this week. He was a famous comedian, well known for routines that commented on rules and restrictions that the majority of people just accept. One of his most popular routines was called “Filthy Words,” which discussed the absurdity of certain words that are forbidden to be said on the “airwaves.” Carlin breaks down each of the words and shows how they are just, in fact, words. His main point was that it is the context that the words are used that determines the appropriateness of the words.

The monologue made it all the way to the Supreme Court. In the 1978 case Federal Communications Commission v. Pacifica Foundation, by a vote of 5 to 4, Carlin’s routine was deemed “indecent, but not obscene.” This case defined the power of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), giving the commission the right to censor “indecent” material as applied to broadcasting. With an interest in protecting children from the offensive material, the Supreme Court stated that the FCC could prohibit broadcasts, during hours that children were likely to be among the audience, and gave the FCC the power to determine what, in fact, was “indecent” in different contexts.

The inability to find any true definition of “obscene or indecent programming” on the FCC website actually makes sense for their purposes. Because nothing is defined, anything is punishable, and their power is great. With all aspects considered, it is the fact that children might be watching, that allows the FCC to do what it needs to do and have a reason. If that is the case, I think parents should be in charge of what their children are allowed to see or hear, and not a commission deciding for them. And if children do hear “indecent” words or see “obscene” images, then it is the parent’s responsibility to communicate with their child about what these things mean.

Water for Elephants

2008-06-21T22:32:00.000-07:00

Water for Elephants, a novel by Sara Gruen, explores the complexities of social class within the context of a traveling circus during the Great Depression of the 1930’s in America. Gruen tells the story through the eyes of Jacob Jankowski whose love for the circus continues in flash forwards in a nursing home, a device that Gruen uses expertly to emphasize the social class of the elderly. Readers see the rise in status that comes with an Ivy League education and in a time of financial difficulty, the difference between those who “have” and those who “have not.” While we would all like to belong to a particular class, Water for Elephants demonstrates that there are particular qualities that will inevitably define our place in society.

Jankowski, after learning the truth about his deceased parents, wanders off and ends up on a train that is used for “The Benzini Brother’s Most Spectacular Show on Earth.” Because he is only one exam away from graduating with a prestigious veterinary education from Cornell University, he is elevated almost immediately to a position with the circus that takes care of the animals. This promotion puts him in an undefined class in an extremely polarized environment, where the difference between the “working men” and “performer” is obvious. Rather than actual experience, the element of education was the sole reason Jankowski was given new responsibilities and a new position within the class structure.

During the Great Depression, the fact that a circus was surviving, if even barely, was quite an accomplishment. Although the lines are very clear between classes on the train, based on the comfort level of the sleeping quarters, general treatment, and payment system, which favors performers and bosses over any other group, the social class structure was not limited to the train. When the Benzini Brother’s circus acquired animals from a bankrupt circus, it is clear that there are many people less fortunate than them. Marlena, one of the circus performers, sacrifices her meal to a hungry working man, although she is told by Uncle Al, the circus leader, that doing so will cause these men to come back for more.

At the same location, the circus obtains Rosie, an elephant who many hoped would elevate the show to the level of their competition, the Ringling Brother’s Circus, proving that even the circus belongs to a particular class. The simple choice to add an elephant to the act completely changed the dynamic of the circus. The expense alone, caused several lower class workers to forgo pay, proving that an animal’s place in the class structure is quite high. The circus audience, of the time, determined the importance of the animal act within the show. While modern audiences certainly enjoy animals, our most popular circus--in recent years--are those produced by the Cirque du Soleil corporation, with acts that are entirely animal-free.

Another indicator of social class in age. Gruen comments on this by exploring Jankowski’s life in a nursing home. His family, who could not take care of him, put him in a home. The tragedy of this is our knowledge of his past, within the story. We know who he is and where he came from, so when we see his memory loss or watch as he is diagnosed with depression, or when his son forgets to take him to the circus that he had been anticipating, it is clear that in our modern society, someone’s age can determine their treatment. While at one time the elderly were respected and perceived as a group of people who were able to contribute to society, this group, today, is often pushed aside. Gruen brilliantly brings Jacob’s experiences to the reader in such a way that a strong familial connection with Jankowski is established. At the end of the story, we want our hero to make it to the show and we support his choice to leave with the circus, despite any danger that may come to him.

Water for Elephants takes place in a time when social class is very clear. While the distinction of class may not be quite so clear today, as people can get to the top without an education, without money, and at any age, the perception of the differences between class remains the same. This explains why people spend way beyond their means to own the items that they believe demonstrate their success. Our society celebrates educated, wealthy, young people and many are willing to do what it takes to maintain the appearance of these qualities.

It seems that within the circus structure, there are always those who are lower than others. At one point in Water for Elephants, human beings are thrown from the train, or “red lighted” based on their necessity. While the choice to murder is unethical, is this not what we do symbolically--in our society today--to those who do not fit into the mold?

Lovemark

2008-06-19T23:44:00.000-07:00

A Lovemark is a brand that you are loyal to beyond reason. It is a product or a company that you cannot live without. While the idea that there are brands that people have a life or death attachment to seems ridiculous, I think that it is natural for human beings to find the “things” that they are passionate about, in order to define themselves.

The concept’s website has a series of questions that if you answer “yes” to about the brand, warrants you to refer to it as a Lovemark. The questions discuss your personal relationship with the product, and levels of intimacy, as if said product was a boyfriend, girlfriend, or family member. It actually makes complete sense that the love that people have to these Lovemarks has inspired an entire website devoted to the love of them.

The number one Lovemark on a top 200 list is Shah Rukh Khan, a famous Bollywood film star--that I have never heard of--proving the point that this these Lovemarks are not specific to any region and that they can be pretty much anything.

You can tell a lot about someone based on their Lovemark. I, for one, could never associate with someone whose passion was cheese. Not because I am lactose intolerant, or because I worked for two years as a waiter at a fondue restaurant, but rather because its just weird.

A Lovemark is another way to identify who you are. It is equivalent to introducing yourself to someone. “Hello world, my name is Starbucks-Madonna-iPod-Nike-Disney. What’s your name?”

Fight for the right to read!

2008-06-17T13:32:00.000-07:00

The government should never be allowed to ban a book. Despite the controversial nature or inappropriate words, government should not have a say in what can or cannot be read. Our First Amendment right to free speech, written or otherwise, will be compromised. If we are only allowed to read what is sanctioned, by the government or by a committee of officials, we are not given access to that which is our right to see.

In the case of books being banned in schools, it should be up to each parent’s discretion if they would like to prevent or allow their child to read material that is taught in class. On that note, it should be a teacher’s responsibility, to not only inform the parent of the potentially controversial topics that are being discussed, but to encourage the parent to read the book themselves. I believe that there is something to be learned from any book, even though it may have been challenged by a group of people. In fact, because the book was challenged, it has even more value to a student because of the conversation about the reasons the book was deemed inappropriate.

Books, fiction or non-fiction, have the power to teach and bring light to a variety of subjects, but more important than that, the written word forces the reader to use one’s own imagination. Books can challenge ideas and act as a reflection to our innermost selves. For these reasons and many more, no book should be banned.

Katie Couric

2008-06-13T12:56:00.000-07:00

If you have a morning talk show in America, serious topics may be discussed and future presidents may be interviewed, but those segments are sandwiched between Summer BBQ cooking tips and reports on the latest puppy fashions. This is the range of stories that Katie Couric reported for 15 years on NBC’s morning show, Today. With her signature smile, she used her charm and sense of humor to discuss topics ranging from serious to absurd, and America loved her. We accepted her into our homes every morning and like a cup of coffee, we got our daily fix. And then, she left.

On September 5th, 2006, Couric left Today and became the first solo female anchor and managing editor of the CBS Evening News, replacing Dan Rather. America did not follow her. My opinion is that ratings were low, not because of her sex or abilities as a reporter, but rather because the audience’s tendency to like things to be the way we think they should be. Katie Couric is essentially a brand. She had established herself as the perky woman who we woke up to each morning and not the hard-hitting serious journalist she tried to pass herself off as on CBS. In a way, she could be compared to the McDonald's brand. Just as we have an association with the fast food chain’s golden arches, we want Couric to be who she was on Today.

I am not saying that people should not be able to evolve or be promoted, but the transition from one media format to another, should keep the audience in mind. While the demographic that watched Couric on Today is not necessarily the same that watches CBS Evening News, she had a certain reputation and thus a responsibility to her audience, no matter what time of the day it is.

Good Night, and Good Luck

2008-06-13T12:22:00.000-07:00

Good Night, and Good Luck, a movie released in 2005 and set in 1954, tells the story of the power and influence of the media in a time when Joseph McCarthy, in a series of anti-communism trials, caused everyone and anyone to be cautious. Edward R. Murrow had the courage to report the truth, despite the topic’s controversial nature. With Murrow himself becoming news, Good Night, and Good Luck exposes the controversial nature of what the media chooses to expose and the complicated relationship that news reporters often have with government.

Why was this movie made today? If one was to replace the word “communism” with “terrorism,” it is easy to see the connection a modern viewer would have with the film. The movie captures the events in 1954, allowing today’s audiences to see the relevance by both comparing and contrasting the world we live in today. For example, Murrow’s reports revolutionized the influence that the media can have, demonstrating that a single report can cause direct action from the military and even grab the attention of elected officials. We take this for granted today, where politicians and celebrities, alike are held accountable for every word and action by the media. On the other hand, 1954 was a simpler time than it is today. Murrow was very careful with the words he chose, being sure to allow the opposing side to have a chance to speak. Today’s media will report information, often irresponsibly, despite its accuracy, and invite “experts” who pass opinion off as truth. The media has the same power, but not necessarily the same integrity.

The fact that Good Night, and Good Luck was filmed in black and white reminds us that it was another time, but what is timeless is an audience’s need to question bureaucracy it often just accepts. After seeing the film, I am reminded that it is our continued duty to not only question our government and its policies, but to always question the integrity of the media whose reports may not always be correct.

Survivor

2008-06-06T11:26:00.000-07:00

“Survivor” is the best show on television. It is my favorite show. It is, in fact, the only show that I try to watch live rather than wait to see a recording on DVR or Comcast, so as to not hear about it from friends or family. For the past 17 seasons, I have found myself, quite literally at the edge of my seat because I have no idea which way a voting will go or if the mother of two, bartender from New York, or gravedigger is going to win the big prize of a million dollars. While the prize may not seem very high compared to the profits made by the producers and CBS, I know that I will never see that much money in my life, taxes or no taxes.

Part of my obsession does have to do with my voyeuristic nature. It is fun to “people watch” and putting all of these different types of people on an island and making them compete is fascinating. I find myself keeping stats in my head, like it was a sport, of wins and losses during both the team and individual competitions. I also love to travel, so seeing parts of the world, like China, Africa, Borneo, Australia over the past seasons has inspired a places-to-go-before-I-die-list.

In a world that is so globally connected and busy, there is something interesting about seeing a group of people isolated from the world, forced to eat rice, coconuts, fish, and whatever else they can scrounge up.

Finally, “Survivor” is credited as being the first reality show. I think that its popularity, stems from the fact that recent comedies and dramas have tended to not be very real. If I have a choice between watching ABC’s show “Lost,” a show about survivors of a plane crash on an island or CBS’s “Survivor,” I would choose the one where the mother of two gets a chance.

Millennial Man

2008-06-06T10:55:00.000-07:00

I am in fact a Millennial. According to a recent 60 Minutes news report, the newest generation to be named, Millennials, are those born between 1980 and 1995. The report details the commonalities among the group which include the ability to multitask, a self-centered attitude, and a close parental relationship. We are also a group that is more tech savvy and choose hanging out with friends over work. While the report, blames the attitudes of the narcissistic generation on Mr. Rogers and his neighborhood, a Washington Post article, cites Barney the dinosaur, among the reasons that the generation has concern for the welfare of the group, rather than themselves. Millennials, of course, probably don’t care what others say about them and would rather not be “put into a box.”

I have been known to commit one of the most deplorable acts in my car. I talk on my phone with my Bluetooth ear piece, while replying to texts, listening to the radio, drinking coffee, and driving. While this act is simply dangerous, impairing my ability to safely drive, it is an indication of my place among the generation. In my mind, I could probably fit in one more thing.

The 60 Minutes report is titled, “The ‘Millennials’ are Coming,” in reference to their taking over of the workplace. I am a Theatre Arts major, and my emphasis is in Directing. To be a successful in the entertainment industry, it is important to diversify yourself, and to have a certain level of knowledge about a variety of things. In a profession that may not always be secure, taking a job just because it’s a job is commonplace. Because I am a Millennial, I use my instinct to work on projects that I am passionate about. I would rather wait for my dream job than take anything that I can get.

I think that both the positive and negative descriptions of this group are true. I am proud that we are not like the generations before us, and that we have the guts to put friends over work and find new ways to do things.