The Outport Magazine Feb 2015

The Outport // February 2015 1

Performing Arts Edition

Meet Your LOCAL Performers

TRans Health In NL

Tribute to

Tommy

+TOP10SHOWTUNES

Women’s Work Festival, Tada! Events, Red Dress Entertainment, City Performance Academy, Baby Bug Productions, iDance, Spirit of Newfoundland & More

nEWFOUNDLAND & lABRADOR’S lgbt lIFESTYLE mAGAZINE

theoutport.com

February 2015

The Outport // February 20152

Friday June 12th, 2015

heroes are remembered...but legends never die.

COMING...FALL 2015: Nov 13 + 14St. John’s Arts + Culture Centre

Call 729-3900 for tickets

a red dress entertainment + babybug production

-


Resources

Darryl Davis @darryl_m_davis

Contributorsto this Edition

Writers

DJFabian Newfoundland @DjFabianNL

Ryan Crocker [email protected]

Pat Watkins [email protected]

Edited byColin Williams & Josh Eddy

[email protected]

Publisher

Josh Eddy [email protected]

Sales ManagerKarin Power

[email protected]

[email protected]

Design & Layout

Josh Eddy [email protected]

Cover Photo

Address 47 Janeway PlaceSt. John’s, NL Phone: (709) 579-8656 (800) 563-1575

Tommy Sexton Centre

St. John’s Pridestjohnspride.ca

Trans Support Group [email protected] Trans Needs Committee [email protected]

Transgender HEalth Services Network of Providers [email protected] Egale Canada egale.ca Planned Parenthood nlsexualhealthcentre.org 24 hr mental health crisis line 1-800-726-2743

Taylor Stocks [email protected]

Provided by: Mary Sexton


DJ Fabian’s Top10 Showtunes

10. No Matter What -Boyzone From the musical “Whistle Down The Wind” 9. I am telling you I’m not Going -Jennifer HudsonFrom the musical “Dreamgirls” 8. I Just Wanna F**ckin Dance -Alison JiearFrom the musical “Jerry Springer : The Opera”

7. Seasons of Love-Various artistsFrom the musical “Rent”

5. Mamma Mia-ABBAFrom the musical “Mamma Mia”

3. Memory-MenageFrom the musical “Cats”

1. I Am what I am-Gloria GaynorFrom the musical “La Cage Aux Folles”

6. All That Jazz -Catherine Zeta JonesFrom the musical “Chicago”

4. Phantom of the Opera

-Harajuku

Finding BalanceA healthy balance of mind, body, and spirit seems to be on everyone’s mind these days. Most of us struggle with hectic lifestyles, but a well-balanced person has a much better chance of finding happiness and a sense of well being. The question is, “How?

The key: Make small changes over time. Eventually you’ll develop a new set of positive habits and never look back!

Here’s a list of things to try:

-Be present: Take 5 minutes and focus on your senses. Or sit quietly for a few minutes each day and do absolutely nothing.

-Make time for you: Try something new. Write, sketch or read an interesting book. Try listening to uplifting music. Do more of what you love!

-Take breaks: Throughout the day, take time for you. Get a facial or a massage. It doesn’t need to be costly; a glass of wine, your favorite coffee or tea, a scented candle or beautiful flowers will make an impact.

-Disconnect: For a few hours on the weekends turn off your phone and computer. Give your work brain a rest.

-Exercise: Find an exercise you enjoy and do it regularly. A Yoga class or strength train at least 3x a week to boost metabolism, build muscle and strengthen bones.

-Get plenty of sleep: Sleep is regenerative. The more sleep you get the better you will perform the next day.

-Get outdoors more: Go for a hike, enjoy nature.

-Explore: Be a tourist in your own town. Attend a local performance, play amateur photographer, window shop, or go to the park. Having a healthy spiritual life doesn’t always have to be related to religion, although many people find that being part of a community and striving to improve their spiritual life is rewarding. Forget the television or computer and instead connect with those you care about. Make a date with your significant other, have coffee with a friend, play a game with a child.

-Connect: Talk to others, preferably face to face or by phone. You can get a fresh perspective while keeping your connection strong.

-Share The Load: Delegate whenever possible. It can be a lifesaver when you’re dealing with

an overwhelming, action-packed life. Avoid toxic people. If you can’t, minimize contact, then tune them out as much as possible. Surround yourself with positive, supportive, can-do people.

-Get Stuffed: Aim to eat real, clean and eat organic when possible. Avoid processed foods, preservatives, chemicals.

-And most importantly...Remember to laugh!

WorkWomen’s Festival

For more information:womensworkfestival.ca

Play readings, panels & workshopsMarch 2-5, 2015 at the LSPU Hall Cox & Palmer Second Space

Writen byPat WatkinsCanfit Pro NWS, PTS

2. You’re The One That I Want From the musical “Grease”


Meet Your Local PerformersHere at The Outport Magazine, we have always enjoyed shining the spotlight on the incredible talent we have in Newfoundland and Labrador. One way of accomplishing this is by profiling several amazingly talented actors, musicians and performers currently active in the theatre community of this Province.

Michael PowerTo start off, we highlight the work of theatre actor, dancer and musician, Michael Power. Originating from Harbour Grace, this triple threat of a performer indicates that he has always enjoyed entertaining others from the time of childhood. He states that he often auditioned and took part in school plays, and had decided by the age of fifteen that he wanted to pursue a career in musical theatre. Upon graduating from high school, Michael gained experience through employment with Acting Up Entertainment, located

in Gander, NL. Acting Up Entertainment focused on dinner theatre experiences, improvisational comedy and even the works of Shakespeare. With this wealth of acting experience, Michael successfully auditioned for the prestigious music theatre program at Sheridan College in Oakville, Ontario.

Upon graduating from this program, Michael worked with the musical variety stage show at Deerhurst Resort in Muskoka, Ontario, for a five year period, before a year-long stint with Celebrity Cruise Lines. He returned to Newfoundland in 2011 and started working with Rising Tide Theatre in Trinity and Spirit of Newfoundland in St. John’s. With Rising Tide Theatre, Michael has toured the Province with the stage show, ‘Harry Hibbs Returns’; as well as with the company’s annual comedy show, ‘Revue’. Last summer, he also acted in the company’s staging of the Grant Tilly musical, “The Naming of Port Rexton”,

directed by Keith Pike. He has worked six seasons with Spirit of Newfoundland and has acted in a variety of this company’s dinner theatre shows, including: ‘Miracle on George Street’, ‘Best Little Newfoundland Christmas Pageant Ever”, ‘Hard Tickets and High Society’, ‘Christmas Around the World’, and most recently the third mounting of ‘The Grinch, Dressing and Gravy’. In addition to this, he has acted in Theatre St. John’s stagings of ‘Little Women’ and ‘Mary Poppins’. With this multitude of acting and musical experience under his belt, Michael’s advice to others pursuing a career in the performing arts is to take any job that you can, and become as versatile a performer as possible.

He also indicates that persistence is important in this industry; not letting rejections stop you from moving forward and obtaining goals.

Kiersten Noel

The first show that Kiersten Noel acted in was ‘A Thieves Tale’ when she was in grade 10. Incidentally, this piece was written and directed by Philip Goodridge. It also featured Sarah Small, Krystin Pellerin, and Calvin Powell, among a lot of other local performers.

She has a Bachelor of Music in Classical Voice from Memorial University and, while studying at MUN, performed in “West Side Story” and “Fiddler on the Roof” with the Quidi Vidi Rennie’s River Development Fund (QVRRDF) . She went to New York University where she obtained a Master’s Degree in Vocal Performance with a concentration in Music Theatre. While there, she performed in “The Boy Friend” as

French Maid Hortense, and went on tour as a member of the Cornerstone Chorale and Brass. Kiersten returned to Newfoundland to get her Bachelor of Music Education and is currently a private voice instructor. She is also a longtime member of the Quintessential Vocal Ensemble.

Some of her favorite roles include Fantine in ‘Les Miserables’ (Atlantic Light Theatre), Betty Haynes in ‘Irving Berlin’s White Christmas’ (Tada Events), Logainne Schwartzandgrubenierre in ‘The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’ (Best Kind Productions), and getting to play Hodel (2004) and Tzeitel (2014) in ‘Fiddler on the Roof’ (QVRRDF).

Coming up in May, Kiersten will be appearing in Best

Kind’s production of ‘Urinetown’ at the LSPU Hall.

Kyle McDavidWhat sparked your interest in performing?

Growing up, I played piano and eventually began playing in pit bands for musicals. After spending a year in the international musical/leadership program, Up with People, I was completely bit by the performance bug.

What experiences and productions that you have been apart of standout for you?

The summer kids musicals we’ve been doing really stand out. We did “Honk!” in 2013 and “Alice in Wonderland” in 2014 spending the entire summer with such a dedicated group of brilliant, hilarious, sensitive kids, as we work toward the goal of show-week. It’s such a feeling of accomplishment and

community for everyone involved. Also, Best Kind’s first show “[title of show]” (that’s the actual title) was very special. It was a small 4-actor production with a keyboard and four chairs. Truly the “little show that could”, and it launched the company!

What future projects do you have coming up?

Coming up, I’ll be performing in Atlantic Light Theatre’s production of ‘Spamalot’ as Sir Bedevere, The Knight of Ni, and several other characters. Then it’s onto TaDa! Event’s ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’, and I’ll be music directing Best Kind’s own production of ‘Urinetown’

which takes place May 28th-31st at the LSPU Hall.

Photo provided by Kyle McDonald

Photo provided by Kiersten Noel

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By Darryl Davis


Joel Hynes

What sparked your interest in performing?

I think I was just trying to impress a girl. It was my son’s mama, Sherry White. I was about 23 and had gotten in a big fight with her and, because she was in with all the theatre and film crowd, I decided to go to an open audition at the LSPU Hall. I think I blew that audition big time because I told someone to f**k off, and pretty much every producer and director in town with an upcoming project was there. My big f*** off was kind of general, towards the whole room, and then I left and said, well, f**k that. Then I went back to the bar for a month or before then one of the directors who was in that room tracked me down and offered me a role in a film. That was Arnold Bennett. He died a couple of years ago. He was a great scholar. The film was a docudrama about the life of poet A.M. Klein called “Messiah From Montreal”. I remember showing up on set looking around for the booze and fluffers and being kinda put out that neither of them were going to materialize. So the moral of the story - next time you go to an audition just tell the whole room to go to f**k and you’re pretty much guaranteed the role.

What advice would you provide to others interested in pursuing a career in the performing arts?

I would recommend to anyone wanting to write or perform and make a go of it, that you’re much better off in the long run doing your own thing, working in your own voice. Because no one else out there has that voice. Every industry, no matter which way you go, will try and push their own agenda onto you as an artist. And I’ve found myself in my darker days catering a little too much to what the industry wants. And that’s when I get miserable. Because the truth is no one knows what’s going to fly or what’s going to sink. So the happy medium I’ve found is doing the work for the sake of the work itself. Because I think there’s a certain peace and zen inside the moment of creation. So f**k the world, f**k the accolades, f**k the naysayers, f**k the good reviews and the bad ones; it’s all empty hollow sh*t in the end. If you’ve put your guts and balls into what you’re trying to say, done your best, showed up and plugged your hours, then the work will speak for itself. Pardon my French.

Janet Cull


I grew up singing my whole life, mainly in the Sally Ann Church. It was always a part of who I was. My career in music was not really planned, it just kind of happened organically.

Where there any special supports and mentors along the way that fostered your interest in being a performer?

I always sang with my father, Pearce Cull. My father recorded a couple of records in the 70’s; music was a big part of our household.

Tell us about any training or Fine Arts/Theatre Programs completed.

I had no training growing up, it came naturally to me. I’m a self taught singer. I did attend St. F.X. University for one year. I was only 19 at the time and had no formal training. I found music school very intimidating and did not finish my degree. I also attended CNA and did one year of the music performance program in Stephenville.

What experiences and productions that you have been apart of standout for you?

My original band BOX, which also included Nat Nose and Kelly-Ann Evans, was the most artistically rewarding music experience that I’ve been a part of. Doing ‘Hedwig and the Angry Inch’ was a super cool project; I was very proud to be a part of that. Performing in the Broadway musicals ‘CATS’ and ‘Hair’ also stand out to me. I thoroughly enjoy all the music performances that I am a part of. Being able to tour Newfoundland and Labrador with tribute shows over the past six to seven years has been very rewarding. I also really enjoy working with Peter Halley and the wonderful singers and musicians at Spirit of Newfoundland.


Always be true to who you are and don’t try to change for anyone!

Keith Power


When I left high school I went straight to Corner Brook and completed a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting at Sir Wilfred Grenfell College. I learned a lot of different skills there - some that never left the rehearsal hall and some that I still use everyday. When I was almost done my degree I realized that I get an immense amount of joy from singing. Unfortunately there were no masterclasses for vocal technique or anything to do with music. I was determined to not let that hold me back. I got back in St. John’s and started shooting for the stars - trying to get in with all the big shows. From doing this, I have learned more than any school could have ever taught me.


I just finished up the Christmas season at Spirit of Newfoundland which consisted of over 40 nights of performing. After that, a sane person would take a break. I must be a sucker for punishment because I’m head first into rehearsals again. You will see me next in Atlantic Light Theatre’s production of Monty Python’s Spamalot - February 6, 7, and 8 at the Arts and Culture Centre. I have a few fun, comedic roles including Not Dead Yet man and Prince Herbert. If laughter is the best medicine, this show will be your drug! Shortly after, March 19-22 at the Arts and Culture Centre, I will be playing Annas in TaDa! Events’ production of “Jesus Christ Superstar”. This rockin’ show is packed with talent - the best of the best! You most certainly do not want to miss out on this one. Of course while I am rehearsing for these shows you can still find me down at the Masonic Temple in “Abba-Gotta Get the Scoop” and “Skeets, Snobs, and Peppermint Nobs”.


To follow a dream and pursue a career in theatre not only do you need to be brave, but you need to be eager. Eager to perform. Eager to learn. Eager to grow. You will fail sometimes, of course, but nothing feels better than the moments you succeed. There will always be areas where others may shine brighter than you. Don’t get blinded. You have qualities and talents that are unique to you. Keep that in mind, and one day you’ll have your name in flashing lights. Just not before me, I hope :)

Photo credit: Mark OakleyPhoto provided by Janet Cull

Photo provided by Joel Hynes


Kelly-Ann Evans


When I was little, around 4 years old, I would sing Dolly Partons’ 9-5 on the bleachers of St. Pat’s ball field to a crowd of baseball fans who would buy me bags of Munchos, so I really think initially my love of junk food was the inspiration! In all seriousness, I always knew I was going to be in this industry, there was never a doubt. Singing solos in nursery school, starting piano lessons at age 7, taking the table out of the kitchen on nights my dad went to hockey so mom and I could have dance parties, and being introduced to so much music by my parents as a kid all played a part in fostering my love for the performing arts.

Were there any special supports and mentors along the way that fostered your interest in being a performer?

Absolutely. Too many to name. Every teacher I have ever had has inspired me and played a part in this journey. To name a few, Ronalda and Peter MacDonald gave me wonderful opportunities as a youth. I think Ronalda is one of the finest vocal teachers around. Terri Andrews has continued to take chances on me entrusting me with roles and helping me build me chops as a performer. She has been a major mentor and supporter of my career and I adore and respect her very deeply. Bill Brennan is an incredible musician and musical director and every single opportunity I work with him I become better! Lastly, my family. They have ALWAYS been my rock. Mom, Dad, Aunt Dodi and my very special Uncle Donnie! Love you all!


My advice to anyone interested in this career would be to get as many irons in the fire as possible. Learn an instrument, learn to read music, take dance classes etc. The more skills you have the more employable you are. Don’t turn down any opportunity! Every experience you have stretches your muscles, fosters your skills, builds confidence and helps you network; It’s not always about the lead role!! Take risks, face you fears, do things you don’t think you can do but most importantly, don’t burn bridges and STAY HUMBLE! No matter how good your skills are, never feel entitled to the gig or the show. Not everyone is right for every gig so accept that and don’t take it personally!

Justin Nurse


I always wanted to be an actor. Always. But it took me a really long time to develop my confidence in my ability to actually be worth watching and listening to. One of the first jobs I had was an ad for MUN. I couldn’t even smile naturally because my lips wouldn’t stop shaking. Finally, a short time after high school I got my first paying job and realized the fear is part of what makes being on stage and in front of the camera so rewarding.

Were there any special supports and mentors along the way that fostered your interest in being a performer?

Yes. Jonathan Monro (who you recently featured) encouraged me to audition for the high school musical, ‘Into The Woods’. There I met a crazy list of talented people. Allan Hawco lead the way to my first paying gig and Jonathan again encouraged me to go after a professional education in theatre. Local producers like Peter McDonald and Terri Andrews also provided early opportunities for me to cut my teeth.


I have had a number of vocal coaches who’s instruction was geared toward theatre. I also attended a musical theatre performance program at Sheridan College in Ontario. Performing education should be approached with an open mind and every opportunity should be taken. I teach voice lessons now and I find some students really excel using my techniques. It’s an odd thing to try and teach someone or yourself to play an instrument you can’t see or touch.


We all find our own way in or out of this business. So I can only offer what my path has taught me. 1) In the end it’s out of your hands. 2) If you don’t love it, you’ll never be good at it. You can’t force it. 3) Surround yourself with positive influences. Stay far away from those who put you down. Even if negativity is masked by humour and jokes, run. The seeds of doubt you welcome can be tough to get rid of. 4) Karma is all. If you lift others up, you will be lifted. If you encourage greatness, you will be great. The opposite is also true. 5) Go easy on the partying. Your body and mind are your workplace and product. Make them marketable.

Ruth Lawrence


I grew up in a small community on the South Coast, St. Jacques. I didn’t have a lot of local role models there when I was first thinking about working in the arts, but I grew up on local television productions. CBC was producing a lot of shows when I was young - Up at Ours, Skipper & Company, Tales from Pigeon Inlet, then CODCO and many other specials. I remember getting the Newfoundland Herald and seeing our performers featured in there alongside Hollywood stars and I made no distinction between them. So I thought, that’s a job I could do. Even though I’d never been in a play until I went to theatre school , it was just in my bones somehow. I don’t actually remember a time when I didn’t want to be a performer so I must have been pretty young when I decided. I didn’t tell anyone until my last year of high school and even then, it was a very select few. I was afraid I’d be laughed at. It’s interesting that I now love being laughed at (when I’m in a comedy!)


I’m coordinating the Women’s Work Festival in early March (be sure to see a play reading or take in a workshop), then directing a production of Proud with Patrick Foran, Marie Jones, Steve O’Connell and Elling Lien. What a cast, hey? And I have several film projects with Martine Blue, Jenina MacGillivray, Joshua Jamieson, Jonathan Monro and Donna Spurvey plus a film and a play of my own. That’s what I know of, so far. It’ll be a busy year. I hope it’s prosperous too. This woman still has hope.


I can’t imagine anyone needs it! Since I’ve ignored or adapted most of the advice I’ve been given, how about I end with this: “Two roads diverged in a yellow wood...so I cleared another one for myself.” From my experience, I think that’s where Robert Frost was really heading with that one…

Photo credit: DcDesign House Photo provided by Justin Nurse Photo provided by Ruth Lawrence


What is the Women’s Work Festival?The Women’s Work Festival is a week of dramaturgy, workshops, and readings of plays-in-progress by women writers from across the province, country and around the world. Local artists work with these writers to help them take their new plays towards the next draft as they head towards the production stage. The nightly readings are free to the public (with donations going to a local women’s charity) and the afternoon writing workshops are an incredibly affordable way to hone your skills or try something new. This year’s festival runs from March 2-5, 2015.

When did it start?The festival got its start at RCA Theatre while I was working there but it sort of transformed into this amazing week when we teamed up with White Rooster Theatre and She Said Yes! to expand the offerings and dig a little deeper. 2015 marks our 9th annual festival, almost double digits! The festival started as a joint venture for those companies but now it’s become it’s own entity. We’re really pleased to see how much has happened in such a short time.

Why was the festival started?This work was borne out of the need we saw to have more development of new works by women. There is a huge outcry these days that not enough theatres are programming

work by women writers. We saw that a decade ago, all of us being involved in theatre companies ourselves, and felt that perhaps there was a need that wasn’t being addressed and maybe we could help change things. There are lots of women writers but sometimes theatres don’t have the will, resources, or interest in developing the work. We saw that with a little bit of money we could help address that on the writer end and at the same time help theatre companies get more polished work coming their way. We can’t help everyone with the budget we have, but we’ve been very successful. So many of the plays that we assist have gone on to get a production that we know our work is valuable and a necessity.

What is your involvement in the festival?I’ve been the coordinator of the festival for most of its life. I work very closely with Sara Tilley and Nicole Rousseau to make this festival happen each year. What I do is create the budget, pull together the funding, help decide the program of works and then get others, including volunteers, to help make it happen.

Where and when does it take place?This is a winter festival (though it was once pushed to May) that happens the first week of March, leading up to International Women’s Day. It grew from an IWD event to recognize women artists in the province.

We are now based out of RCA’s LSPU Hall Second Space and it is a great, cozy and friendly space for this event. On a March night, you can head to the Hall for a 7 pm reading of a new work, hear some great actors lift it off the page, see a songwriter or performer show a bit of their work and join a wonderful conversation about a new venture. It’s a pretty invigorating event. And if you’re interested in the writing process (by appreciation or practice) then the workshops can open up a new world for you. Very soon the whole schedule will be on our website at www.womensworkfestival.ca and you can check out who will be coming and what’s on offer this March.

What are some highlights to look forward to?My favourite part are the panels, roundtables, and conversation that take place after the readings. The exchange of creative ideas is a turn-on for me. This year, we’re also supporting Lois Brown at Newfoundlandartistx on an exciting work series that she’s doing, a workshop with Robert Chafe, and we are bringing Tara Manuel in from the west coast to do a puppetry workshop and a performance. There’s some other great events in the mix but in the moment I’m writing this, it’s too soon to share them!

Our tiny festival is national and international in scope; almost every year, we have a visiting writer. In the past they’ve come from Turkey, Mexico, and the US to share their work with us. It’s pretty exciting to have that global exchange. While we’re still fairly small, the word spreads more each year and the artists and audiences have been a part of some very special moments.

Any additional comments or points you would like make?This festival is a real treat for many people. We have artists and audience members who, once they come, will keep returning because it really has room for a lot of voices. We would not have grown to this level without the ongoing support of funders like the NLAC, the City of St. John’s, Heritage Canada and many local theatre companies and artists who help us out in a variety of ways every year. From providing accommodations to putting up posters, from donating coffee and treats to taking in a panel or workshop, we are very grateful for the support. If you want to lend a hand, contact us at [email protected] and we will be delighted to hear from you!

Women’s Work Festival With Ruth Lawrence

Photo credit: Evan Smith

Photo credit: Evan Smith


Any musical theatre-goer in St. John’s has likely experienced the brilliance that is Ms. Kelly-Ann Evans. What many may not know is that she is also a successful entrepreneur and business woman. She is the owner of City Performance Academy (formally Rock City School), a performing arts school, offering private music lessons in Drums, Bass, Guitar, Piano and Vocals. This institution also offers specific programs in musical theatre and rock band performance. In addition to Kelly-Ann, the school has six qualified instructors on-site; Chad Murphy (Guitar), Craig Follett (Bass and Guitar), Chris Picco (Guitar), Mallory Johnson (Voice and Piano), Jasmine McMorgan (Piano), and Andrew McCarthy (Drums), all of whom are active performers in the industry.

Kelly-Ann is also the owner of her own production company, Red Dress Entertainment, which has been operating for the past ten years. In celebration of this milestone the company is launching the show, ‘Strong Enough: The Music of Sheryl Crow’, on February 27th at the Rock House on George Street. The show will feature the many hits of Sheryl Crow, including: ‘All I Wanna Do’; ‘If It Makes You Happy’, ‘Favorite Mistake’ and of course ‘Strong Enough’, as only Kelly-Ann can interpret them. She will be joined on stage by Craig Follett on Bass, Rich Spurrell on Drums, Chad Murphy and Armondo Fowlow on Guitar, as well as Guest Vocalist, Janet Cull.

Kelly-Ann and Red Dress Entertainment are also bringing back, ‘Stud and a Babe’, a successful cabaret-styled show she did last year with the talented Evan Smith. This show, billed as ‘Part Two’, will also feature Guest Vocalist Mallory Johnson, and will take place at the Masonic Temple, head office to Spirit of Newfoundland, on June 12th, 2015. In the Fall, Red Dress Entertainment will be co-producing a show with Janet Culls’ Baby Bug Productions called ‘Forever 27’. For several years, this show has been a dream of

Janet and Kelly-Ann’s, and it will pay tribute to music legends who have passed away at the ripe old age of twenty-seven.

This showcase will feature the music of Jimi Hendrix, Jim Morrison, Kurt Cobain, Robert Johnson, Janis Joplin and Amy Winehouse. Darrell Cooper, Denis Parker, Brad Power, Kalem Mahoney and Jody Richardson are just some of the talents involved. Tickets for ‘Strong Enough: The Music of Sheryl Crow’ are currently on sale at Fred’s Records, The Ship or at the door on the day of the show. Tickets for ‘Stud and a Babe: Part 2’ are currently on-sale at the Spirit of Newfoundland box office. www.cityperformanceacademy.com.www.reddressentertainment.com.

City Performance Academy,

Red Dress Entertainment &

Baby Bug Productions

110 Water St., St. John’s 726-LUSH

By Darryl Davis


To honour Tommy Sexton’s memory and his contributions to the culture of Newfoundland and Labrador, The Outport spoke with those who knew him best and local celebrities whose careers he inf luenced.

In the City of Legends, there are few remembered as widely and fondly as Tommy Sexton.Over the course of his tragically short life and world-renowned career, Sexton popularized the sharp wit of Newfoundland and Labrador and taught the whole of North America how to find humour in absolutely everything.It all started with a play he wrote with Diane Olsen: Cod on a Stick. That play led to the formation of CODCO, a theatrical revue turned comedy troupe that thrilled audiences in St. John’s and was even aired nationally by the CBC from 1987 to 1992. The show allowed Sexton to shine, with many of the characters he portrayed becoming household names across Newfoundland and Labrador. CODCO also served as the training grounds for many of this province’s wealth of famous comedians - including Greg Malone, Cathy Jones, Mary Walsh, and Andy Jones.And while making people laugh from coast to coast, he still found the time to bless audiences with other great works - including Wonderful Grand Band, Too Foolish to Talk About, The S and M comic Book, and The National Doubt. There was hardly a performance art that Sexton didn’t revolutionize in this province, from sketch comedy, to political commentary, to drag.One of his last works was a semi-autobiographical film titled Adult Children of Alcoholics: The Musical. While it was in production, Sexton shockingly passed away from complications due to AIDS.Our city and province entered a period of mourning when his death was announced in December, 1993. The love and admiration

everyone felt for Sexton helped to humanize those living with HIV and AIDS here at a time when the disease wasn’t well understood by a terrified public, and prejudice against its victims was widespread the world over.Sexton passed away at just 36 years of age, but accomplished more in that time than most ever will.

But who was he, really? To honour Sexton’s memory and his contributions to the culture of Newfoundland and Labrador, The ‘Out’port spoke with those who knew him best and local celebrities whose careers he influenced.

A Son

“I’m always amazed at the strong memories people have of Tommy,” said Sarah Sexton, his mother. “His influence hasn’t died. Young people are picking it up and are really aware of what he did and what he meant to Newfoundland and Labrador. It really... makes my heart happy... because I know he will inspire them to carry on and be the best Newfoundlanders they can be.”Sexton’s mother remembers him as a born performer, someone who could always be counted on to take centre stage and delight the family.“Nothing was more important to him than his audience,” she said. “Acting and singing was his life and he proved that every day. It’s been more than 20 years since he died and I still talk to people who watch his performances, who remember his characters and the voices he did. That remains with people, and with me.”

A TRIBUTE TO TOMMY

Writer of the storyJohn Sebastian Doe

PhotographerBy Ryan Crocker

Photo Provided by Mary Sexton


In his memory, Sexton’s mother became one of this province’s leading AIDS activists. His family, and their supporters, opened the Tommy Sexton Centre, an assisted living complex for people with HIV and AIDS.“It really is a devastating disease,” she said. “As long as I live, I will try to help people learn about it, help those living with it, and pay respects to those who passed away. We lost a lot of wonderful people, a lot of great Newfoundlanders, because of AIDS. Young people need to be reminded. When you’re 16 and 17, you think you’ll live forever. I want them to be aware and learn to take care of themselves.”

A Brother

Mary Sexton remembers fondly the time she was convinced her life was over if she didn’t get the $9.99 Wonder Woman costume from Zellers to wear for Halloween.Her father, however, wasn’t having any of it.“I got all sookie and Tommy said, ‘Hey Mary, we’ve got a perfect little traditional Chinese dress. Why don’t you wear that?’,” she said. “I was skeptical but he talked me into it. He did my hair and make-up and I ended up winning best costume at school. And, of course, the first thing out of my mouth was: I never wanted that store-bought costume anyway! Everyone was my friend that day. It gave me confidence.”Sexton’s sister said he was always generous to her. She had a son out of wedlock, which could make life difficult for women in those days - as her mother joked, “We got him the hard way!”. But even when she was struggling to get on her feet, Tommy was always there with financial assistance and encouragement to pursue her obvious talent in the arts.And that she certainly did. Mary Sexton has become one of the leading producers in this province with an impressive list of credits to her name. This summer she’ll be working on a film with a $7.2 million budget, with Ethan Hawke. It’s even become something of a family business, with her son, Nikolas Sexton, ready to release his film: How to be Deadly, which is dedicated to Tommy. It’s just one of many exciting developments Sexton’s Rink Rat Productions (www.rinkratproductions.com) has in the works.“He was always the one pushing me to become a producer,” she said. “He was always pushing me to work in the arts. For that I can’t thank him enough.”It’s a sentiment she sees among many

performers in Newfoundland and Labrador.“There is such great love for Tommy. My mother still gets cards from people he helped or inspired,” she said. “He was ahead of his time, and it’s interesting to me to talk to high school students who know CODCO material from Youtube and say it’s still relevant. They’re still watching, enjoying Tommy and his humour.”

An Inspiration

As one of the stars of This Hour Has 22 Minutes and hit films such as The Grand Seduction, Mark Critch has become a household name across Canada in his own right.Yet he - like many of Newfoundland and Labrador’s celebrities - says his career simply could not exist if Sexton hadn’t blazed a trail.“Tommy was brilliant,” Critch said. “There was no one before or since who was so fully able to disappear into a character. His work with Wonderful Grand Band was unlike anything we had seen before. And he inspired and influenced every generation since. Without Tommy, there’d be no me, no Mercer, no Majumder.”Critch remembers wanting to be Tommy Sexton when he was in school.“When I was in the First Grade, I wanted to be Tommy Sexton,” he explained. “Dickie Budgell is the reason I wanted to become a comedian. I was telling a friend that I loved watching Dickie at St. Teresa’s and the teacher sent me to the office for swearing. They thought I meant the other Dickie. So I saw the humour in that.”Critch never met Sexton, but his brother did manage to get an autograph from him. Sexton’s simple advice inspired Critch.

“My brother told him I wanted to be a comedian and Tommy wrote ‘Act up!’ next to his signature,” Critch said. “I took those words to heart.”

A Colleague and Friend

Sandy Morris cherishes his Wonderful Grand Band memories of Sexton.“Tommy was an enormous influence on me, as he was on everyone he came into contact with,” Morris said. “He was one of those people whose sphere of influence was huge. When he decided to do something - or not do something - everyone around him followed suit. Not that he pressured you to - you just did.”Morris said when Sexton died, fans mourned not only the loss of the legendary performer, but his characters as well.“He took Nanny Hynes, Dickie Budgell, Spook

“THERE WAS NO ONE BEFORE OR SINCE WHO WAS SO FULLY ABLE TO DISAPPEAR INTO A CHARACTER...HE INSPIRED AND INFLUENCED EVERY GENERATION SINCE. WITHOUT TOMMY, THERE’d BE NO ME, NO MERCER, NO MAJUMDER.” -MARK CRITCH

and so many more beloved roles that so many people idenfied with,” he said. “He left a really big hole in the culture.”That’s why Morris is hoping Newfoundland and Labrador eventually establishes some sort of Hall of Honour to commemorate those who have made huge contributions to the culture of this province.“I think more can be done to keep his memory alive for the younger generation and generations to come,” Morris said. “I’d start with a memorial video presentation of his work with CODCO. There still hasn’t been an official release of any of the CODCO television performances. I don’t know if we’ll ever see anyone else with his skill set. He was a great comedian, mimic, writer, actor, dancer, singer, and songwriter.”Fellow Wonderful Grand Band member Ian Perry agrees.“We were signing DVDs at Fred’s Records during our 2009 tour and a young woman came up to me and said, ‘You will never know how much joy the Wonderful Grand Band brought to our family’,” Perry explained. “Tommy deserves much of the credit for that. His characters were loved, especially Dickie and Nanny Hynes. And they are still loved and talked about today.”Perry said even in his absence, Sexton’s presence is felt.“I can’t think of a greater impact that one could have than living in people’s hearts as Tommy continues to do,” he said.

A Legend

While he might blush a little at the devotion his memory still receives in Newfoundland and Labrador, Tommy Sexton would be thrilled to see his enduring legacy.His sister is working on a documentary titled Something in the Water about the disproportionate, seemingly endless talent that makes its way from our province around the world. From the bay to Broadway, this province boasts a rich array of artists and audiences across Canada can’t seem to get enough.Whether it’s This Hour Has 22 Minutes or Republic of Doyle, all of our celebrities have passed through a door that Sexton was among the first to pry open. And they’ve done it with good humour and genuine love and support of one another.That, his family says, is what Tommy Sexton was all about.“That’s what he’d always say,” explained his sister, “Be kind to each other.”


Owned and operated by Peter Halley (President and Artistic Director) and Kathie Hicks (Chief Operating Office), Spirit of Newfoundland Productions was formed in January 1997. With eighteen years of operation, this dynamic and spirited company has grown into a full service food, beverage and entertainment organization.

The core business of Spirit of Newfoundland is their renowned dinner shows, which take place at the company’s home office, The Masonic Temple, located at 6 Cathedral Street, St. John’s, NL. With a clever combination of good humour, sketch comedy segments, historical lessons and beautifully performed musical performances, these shows never disappoint and offer a truly immersive an dinteractive musical experience. Spirit of Newfoundland has produced and staged over fifty shows; thirty-nine original productions and eleven Broadway and Off-Broadway musicals. Whether being a hilarious tribute to the greatest male musical artists of our time (‘Women Doin’ Men’), a loving musical showcase of pop super group (‘ABBA: Gotta Get The Scoop!’), or a celebration of the many holiday traditions from a variety of cultures (‘Christmas Around The World’); they all have a distinctive Newfoundland flavour. In the company’s latest original production, the humorously titled ‘Skeets, Snobs and Peppermint Nobs’, the focus is on Newfoundland heritage and culture front and centre. The show celebrates the extensive history and beauty of Newfoundland folk music. It is one of the best productions by Spirit of Newfoundland to date, featuring outstanding performances, and should not be missed!

Spirit of Newfoundland also employs some of the most talented musical talent the province has to offer. Each show being made up of trained vocalists and musicians who flaunt their Newfoundland heritage by singing and playing passionate, vibrant and harmony-filled Newfoundland songs. Favourites of the Spirit of Newfoundland stage include: Kelly-Ann Evans, Janet Cull, Dana Parsons, Sheila Williams, Shelley Neville, Erin Winsor, Keith Power, Michael Power, Jeff Simms and Peter Halley himself. All are dynamic and powerhouse vocal performers, with onstage charisma and comedic talents to match. The musicians who often join these performers onstage, Sandy Morris, Frank Fusari, Paul ‘Boomer’ Stamp, and Evan Smith, are also exceptional.

Spirit of Newfoundland also owns ‘Newfoundland Kitchen Party Foods’ which produces the ‘Jiggs Dinner Square’. With this venture, the Company employs almost 100 actors, singers, musicians, serving staff, kitchen staff, and administrative staff.

Spirit of Newfoundland currently has staging of ‘ABBA: Gotta Get The Scoop!’ on February 14th; as well as, ‘Skeets, Snobs and Peppermint Nobs’ on February 26th and 27th. Reservations for these shows can currently be made by either visiting the Spirit of Newfoundland Box Office located at the Masonic Temple, 6 Cathedral Street, St. John’s, by calling (709)-579-3023 and (877)-661-3023, or through their website at www.spiritofnewfoundland.com/reservations/.

Spirit ofNewfoundland

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By Darryl Davis

TaDa! EventsOur Divas

Over the years, TaDa! Events and Artistic Director Terri Andrews have definitely raised the bar with regard to the musical theatre offered in St. John’s. The Company has successfully produced some of the most famous and iconic musicals to ever hit the stages of Broadway. ‘Cats’, ‘Cabaret’, ‘Gypsy’, ‘Chicago’, and last years ‘Evita’, are just a few of the classic shows presented by TaDa! that have wowed audiences in this province. The company is about to launch into the 2015 season with the Frosty Festival on February 6th, and the staging of the Andrew Lloyd Webber/Tim Rice musical, ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’, opening at the St. John’s Arts and Culture Centre on March 19th.

With regard to her involvement in the Frosty Festival, Terri states that she was contacted by Keith White and Kendra Lester, describing them as “two amazing young people who are spearheading the Frosty Festival events this year”. She indicated that they voiced to her their dream of having an extravagant opening night ceremony for the Frosty Festival, but knew that putting on a show of this magnitude was an expensive and somewhat complicated venture. Terri indicated that she was so impressed with their vision and dedication to community, that TaDa! Events/Our Divas agreed to partner with the Frosty Festival Committee to makes these dreams a reality. Terri indicated that this project fit the mandate of TaDa! Events/Our Divas as it is not only a free event for the families of Mount Pearl, but it was also an event committed to the development of young talent. “Being the ‘Divas’ that we are”, voiced Terri, “we like to work around a theme, so every song in the show is based around winter: snow, ice, cold.” She indicates that adults will appreciate the the arrival of Vikings in the Northern Visitors segment, while kids will love the songs from Frozen and the original snow queen herself: Snow White.

Recognizing that there are some amazing performance based companies based out of Mount Pearl itself, Tada! Events/Our Divas invited the company of Etcetera Productions and performing groups from MAX Arts, Athletics and Wellness, and the Mount Pearl School of Dance, into the fold. They will be featured in the opening night ceremony of the Frosty Festival, along with many of the singers and dancers from this season’s ‘Our Divas Do Christmas’; as well as, that show’s host, Ms. Sheilagh Guy Murphy.

With members of The Quintessential Vocal Ensemble, under the choral direction of Susan Quinn and aerialists, under the direction of Anahaero Doelle; Terri Andrews promises a multimedia show filled with excitement and winter wonder. “This project goes to show it truly does take a village”, states Andrews, “Or in this case, a city”.

TaDa! Events second big production this year is, of course, ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’. Andrews indicates that ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ is one of the original rock operas, and was written to be placed in the time and setting of the current day. She states that when the Norman Jewison directed film adaptation was first released in 1973, Jesus and his disciples were flower children. The new staging of the musical is set against the context of the Occupy Wall Street movement, but Andrews promises the story remains completely relevant today. It tells of the last days of Jesus, and raises the obvious questions of whether Judas was a traitor, or the right hand of Jesus in putting into play events which were predestined by God. Andrews states this “electric interpretation” makes the audience examine whether in the days of Facebook and Twitter; where phone in votes are as influential as law, and people are tried and judged in the courts of public opinion, is anyone really beyond the lure of believing their own hype?

The TaDa! Events production of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ has a cast of over 50 performers, and it’s a virtual who’s who of the city’s musical theatre giants: Jody Richardson as Judas, Justin Nurse as Jesus, Janet Cull as Mary Magdalene, Kelly Ann Evans as Simon, Timothy Matson as Peter, Philip Goodridge as Pilate, Wayne Pardy as Caiaphas, Keith Power as Annas, and Justin Goulding as Herod. Andrews voices that this is only the beginning as the supporting cast are just as stellar; many recognizable as leads in recent theatrical and musical productions. With a completely tricked out rock orchestra, with three - count them - three keyboards, under the musical direction of Bill Brennan, set design by Karl Simmons and choreography by Pamela Pittman, this show is sure to rock the roof of the Arts and Culture Centre. ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’, as directed by Terri Andrews, opens on March 19th at the St. John’s Arts and Culture Centre. Tickets are on-sale now at the Arts and Culture Centre Box Office or online at www.artsandculturecentre.com/stjohns.

Trans HealthPart 1The New Year brings with it many resolutions, often including taking better care of the body and mind. But the trans community faces particular obstacles when it comes to going to the gym or receiving proper mental and physical health care. This month, I will be looking at some of the reasons why attending to basic health needs can be difficult for trans folk, with next month’s column examining specific difficulties navigating the health care system when it comes to the process of transitioning.

Good health starts with eating right and getting exercise. But what happens when spaces for physical activity are heavily gendered? For a trans person, going to the gym generally means using a changing room, either for men or for women. The changing room can not only be a space of misgendering, but can also be very unsafe. Those who are binary and pass may have an easier time and feel comfortable in the changing room of their choice, but the threat of being outed is always there. Folks who look androgynous can have a particularly tough time, often shouted out of the women’s room and facing potentially violent situations in the men’s. This often means that trans folk simply don’t use the gym, especially when this is combined with factors like being unable to bind or tuck. My recommendation? Find physical activity around the city that doesn’t rely on change rooms or splitting up genders. Dance, pilates or yoga, and martial arts are all good options - the important part is to feel safe and motivated to get that body moving.

But going to the gym and eating well can only do so much, occasionally the trip to the doctor’s office might have to be made. Keep in mind, a trip to the doctor’s will be necessary if a bathroom isn’t used on a regular basis, as trans people have a much higher likelihood of getting urinary tract infections given the desire to avoid gendered public washrooms. Going to the doctor as a trans person can be an overwhelming experience, especially if they are new or unfamiliar with trans identities. Speaking personally, when I am ill, I do not have the spoons to educate, so I generally just accept that incorrect label as “girl” and “she”, avoiding packing and binding when I go in. This can mean, though, that any trans practices that affect my health are not being discussed and I am much less likely to go to the doctor until I have no other option. Accessing physical health care means educating or reverting back to my pre-transition self, which is unnecessary stress when I’m already sick and tired.

Though physical and mental health are separated within our healthcare system, they are intrinsically linked within us. I have been using mental health services long before my transition - almost ten years now. The depression and anxiety that I deal with can be crippling if I do not have regular meetings to sort through what’s going on in my head. Coming to St. John’s and Memorial, one of the first things I did was get hooked up with Mental Health Services at MUN. Much like other places, an intake session was required. At the time, I was sure of the word genderqueer, but that was about it. I understood that my identity was compounding my feelings of worthlessness and I wanted a space develop a language around my gender. The therapist doing my intake, hearing of the body dysphoria that I occasionally experience with deep intensity, decided that the best place for me would be a group on body image…for women only. Trans issues can often be mistranslated into something else, or worse, be placed in a diagnoses themselves. Once again, access to comprehensive healthcare is dependent on education around trans identities. The efforts for educating healthcare professionals by Zack Marshal et. al. are exactly what is necessary for trans people to receive adequate care.

By Darryl Davis

By Taylor Stocks


iDanceIn all of his earliest memories, Shawn Silver was dancing. It’s no wonder the St. John’s resident and member of the local LGBT community has turned his passion and talent for sport into an impressive career.“My grandfather was a Portuguese stowaway who ended up in St. John’s,” Silver explains. “He was a fabulous step dancer and musician and he was a performer on CBC’s All Around the Circle in the late 60s and early 70s. He taught me some of the basics and I began tap dancing. I always had a natural rhythm, and when I was about seven I saw an Irish dance competition and thought, ‘I could do that. I WANT to do that!’.”Dance was so important to Silver that it largely defined who he was growing up. He knew as a young child there was no other career for him - and he watched his parents lovingly waltz and jive on the dance floor with excitement. “I dreamt of the stage and sharing it with other dancers,” he says. “I could see the audience and the lights in my eyes. And that’s exactly where I ended up.”Silver had a lot of support as he set out on his career. His Portuguese-Irish family includes 10 siblings and countless other relatives, from cousins to nephews and nieces. While just about everyone in the family weren’t strangers to having their feet on the dance floor, Silver was the only one of his siblings to pursue the passion professionally.“The men in my family were stepdancers on both sides. My mother’s father, from Placentia Bay, was also a singer and dancer. My mother’s brother, Henry Lake, is a fabulous step dancer,” Silver says. “It seemed as though there was always a family event, wedding, party, anniversary or reunion and I was the guy who was going to bust out the moves and entertain.”His family served as a sort of captive audience for Silver, allowing him to well master his art from a young age.“They not only enjoyed it, they encouraged it,” he says. “They are a high-energy bunch and it was always about dance. My Mom and Dad were two of my biggest supporters. I was lucky. When other kids were being dropped off at the hockey arena, I was being dropped off at the dance studio. All of my brothers are tailors, as is my Dad. Tony the Tailor opened up a world of possibilities to me - just because you were male didn’t mean you couldn’t dance, sing, act, or appreciate the arts. He showed me you could have any passion and make it work for you.”And Silver sure did make it work. He’s mastered Irish dancing with some of the leading Irish dancers in the world. With his Portuguese background, he’s also been drawn to that country’s traditional dances as well as numerous other styles of dance from around the world.“Irish dancing was my true passion, always has been and probably always will be. It’s an ancient form of art and it’s also a competitive sport,” Silver says. “I’m an athlete and very competitive. Irish dancing

is fabulous as it gives me the workout I need. It’s the perfect combination of gymnastics, athletics, martial arts, and ballet.”Silver first went professional in 1994 while working in Toronto with step dancers from Cape Breton. He performed in the famous The Stepping Song music video for Mary Jane Lamond.“That kind of flung the doors wide open for me,” Silver explains. “The song and video were highly acclaimed and garnered all kinds of attention and awards both here in Canada and internationally. I thought back then, if Nova Scotia is packaging their traditional dancing and marketing it to the world, then surely we, as the grandfathers of traditional culture in Newfoundland and Labrador, should be able to do the same.”Silver opened his iDance School in 1998, which he says is the province’s only dance school completely dedicated to the traditional Irish style.“I am very proud of our work,” he says. “I do, now, exactly what I envisioned as that seven-year-old boy who danced with his grandfather in the family home.”At the 2002 Juno Awards, Silver was hired to put together an Irish dance show. It was hugely successful, and Silver received lots of great feedback from the household names in attendance.“It was Nelly Furtado of all people who was the first person to come to me saying how she loved it,” he says, noting the provincial government and Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency were equally impressed. “So together we embarked on the journey to build this province’s Irish dance profile.”Silver was sent to Ireland to fine-tune his training and expertise and even worked with the world-famous Riverdance group. Now back home, he thrills audience across the province, country, and even internationally with his energetic, skillful dancing.“It’s always magic for me. There’s almost an alien quality to it and it’s very special and steeped in tradition,” he says. “I am so fortunate, truly. I have seen people cry, as crazy as it sounds. But I totally get it. There’s something quite moving and almost spiritual about it.”That’s what Silver works to bring to his students. He says it doesn’t matter if your ultimate goal is to tour the world with a professional group or just be a fun hit at a family event, there’s something for everyone in Irish dancing.

“I teach children, youth and adults from beginners to advanced levels,” he explains. “Everyone can dance and I’m here to show you how. As long as the heart is beating and you can still tap your toes, then I say do it. Dance like everyone is watching! Get in touch with your inner Celt!”

For more information about iDance school’s classes,

visit www.idance.ca

By Ryan Crocker

Photo provided by Shawn Silver


Documents

The Outport Magazine Feb 2015