Greensboro Daily Photo

Harlem Shake UNCG, Not

On Saturday, March 2nd, UNCG tried to join the Harlem Shake craze and make an official video like the students at Appalachian State (and many other universities)*. However, the UNCG, campus police informed organizers that they didn't have all the right permits. By 1:10 pm, as noted on the clock above, the dejected crowd dispersed. The coed in the photo, dressed in neon and black was scheduled to be a "highlighter". She was going to be one of the people to get her 15 seconds of fame by being part of the epicenter that starts shaking before the masses join for the final 15 seconds. The dance has been around for a long time; it originated in Harlem in 1981. It became an internet meme that went viral in February 2013.

By the time the local students get everything in order, likely, the fad may have lost momentum. We were impressed that the students dispersed without any disorderly conduct. Civility and respect are important qualities. As the group broke up, two "highlighters" headed into quad dorms and the one above went to the union building. The felt-tipped, transparent/flourescent ink highlighters have been used by students since 1963.  Those highlighter-colored outfits are new to the scene. If you see someone wearing one, you might want to ask them if they were in a Harlem-shake video. Oh, to be young again!

* If you aren't sure what we are talking about, see App's example here. Beware, movements are PG-13.

Greensboro Music Company

The Greensboro Music Company, established in 1993,  is located at the corner of Paisley and Greene Streets.  The actual address is 500 North Greene Street. These days, small, one-story, houselike buildings are getting harder and harder to find downtown.  The architecture and the Carolina blue trim make the building memorable.  The Music Company specializes in buying, selling, and repairing musical instruments, amps, and just about anything that needs fixing.  Fisher Park Apartments and Orrell Designs are just a stone's throw away. The location is fabulous. The leafless tree on a cold winter day makes the seen look cold and desolate. Walk inside and the feeling is completely different.  Happy Monday! If you get a chance, drive around and see if you can find this building. Better yet, walk or bike.

She said, "YES."

    In the above photo, Joe Rigert and Alice Reville pose for a photo shortly after getting engaged this past Saturday. Joe and Alice, who currently live in Durham, met while they were students at Guilford College. So, when Joe planned the perfect proposal, his alma mater immediately came to mind. The plan was to attend a basketball game at Guilford and to walk around campus before the game. As they approached the lake, Joe would drop to his knees and propose.

    In Greensboro, Saturday started out overcast and gray, but about the time the couple left Durham for the drive over, clouds parted and the sun filled the sky. Standing by the lake on the wooded part of campus, at exactly 12:30 p.m. and exactly as planned, Joe kneeled and proposed. Alice said, "Yes! Yes!" with her answer carrying across the lake. How wonderful to know that this romantic, storybook moment took place in our lovely community. Joe and Alice, we wish you a lifetime of wonderful moments, planned and unplanned.

Happy Chanukah

Yesterday was a busy day of Chanukah festivities in downtown Greensboro. Above, a children's group from B'nai Shalom Day School was singing Chanukah songs at Center City Park. Chanukah began Saturday evening and will end the evening of Sunday, December 16th. Between now and then, families will be busy lighting another branch of the Menorah each night and remembering their religious history with a mixture of communal and family-based activities. Fried foods are eaten to show the importance of oil. Some people play dreidel games and exchange small gifts; however, Chanukah is not a "Sabbath-like" holiday and most people continue to go to school and work.

Yesterday's event in Center City Park followed one at the Heirloom Chanukah Menoras Lighting at the Greensboro Historical Museum, an event sponsored in partnership with the Greensboro Jewish Federation. Families scrambled to finish up the festitivies in the museum to make it to the park in time to continue the festivities.

Since the arrival of Jewish families in the late 1800's, Greensboro's Jewish community has played a prominent and significant role is making our community the great place it is today. Greensboro seems to aspire to respect the inherent worth and dignity of all citizens. If you were to listen to a family lighting the Menorah during Chanukah, likely, you would hear the following: 

1. Blessed are You, L‑rd our G‑d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and commanded us to kindle the Chanukah light.

1. Ba-ruch A-tah Ado-nai Eh-lo-hei-noo Meh-lech Ha-olam A-sher Ki-deh-sha-noo Beh-mitz-vo-tav Veh-tzi-va-noo Leh-had-lik Ner Cha-noo-kah.

2. Blessed are You, L‑rd our G‑d, King of the universe, who performed miracles for our forefathers in those days, at this time.

2. Ba-ruch A-tah Ado-nai Eh-lo-hei-nu Meh-lech Ha-olam Sheh-a-sa Nee-sim La-avo-tei-noo Ba-ya-mim Ha-hem Bee-z’man Ha-zeh*

Let's hope the light continues to shine for a very long time.

* http://www.chabad.org/holidays/chanukah/article_cdo/aid/603798/jewish/Chanukah-Guide.htm

 

Jaycee Christmas Parade

The local high school bands provided great entertainment at the Jaycee's Christmas Parade on Saturday. In the above photo, Greensboro College marches past the Central Library as one of their littlest, big fans looks on. This toddler was so happy when all the bands came by and, for the most part, she stayed on the street and danced to the music. We all had to move back on the sidewalk when the huge, impressive NC A&T Univeristy band came marching past. 

About the same time, Ben L. Smith High School came marching up Church Street, It must have been a bittersweet parade for the Smith High School marching band members as it was their first Christmas parade without band director Charles L. Butler. Butler died unexpectedly earlier this year in April. He had inspired band students at Smith High School for nearly fifteen years. You can be sure that, on Saturday, Butler's former students were remembering their last parade with him. Godspeed Mr. Butler and may one of your students be inspired to follow in your footsteps. Before we know it, Greensboro's children, like the little girl in the photo, will be in need of a band director.

TAG, You're It!

Today, we're back in High Point at 220 East Commerce Avenue at Theatre Art Galleries, also known as TAG. TAG combines performance art with visual art. The main gallery, shown above, is currently featuring an exhibit entitled "No Boundaries: Two Generations Face to Face. Artists Lucy Davis Phillips and Harriet Marshall Goode are a perfect pair to share gallery space. Both are figurative artists who like to show a great deal of emotion and construct narrative in their work. Harriet does the larger pieces which show women full-length and face forward, often doing something really unusual, like carrying a chicken. Seeing the figures, painted with some details merely suggested, makes one wonder if they are fading from view or coming into focus. To be sure, one does not feel alone when in a room with the work of these two Carolina gals. Harriet is from Rock Hill, South Carolina and Lucy from High Point.

High Point Theatre is located in the furniture district of High Point. Starting December 6th, the North Carolina Shakespeare will begin performing Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" there. If the performance is as good as it was last year, we may have to go twice!

Stop back by Greensboro Daily Photo, tomorrow. We'll be back in Greensboro. And, if we are lucky, Time Warner Cable will get our internet working and we'll be finished coffee shop hopping to use the internet.

Nanci Griffith at High Point Theatre

Last weekend we were enjoying the folkabilly music of Nanci Griffith at the High Point Theatre. Nanci is one of those great musicians whose sound was nurtured by the great music scene in Austin, Texas. As suggested by the above set, Nanci's stage presence is that of a friend playing for you and telling fun stories in your living room. She tours with the Kennedys, seen seated to her left. Singer/songwriter Nanci Griffith is a survivor of breast and thyroid cancer and her songs reflect her gratitude for being here to celebrate life with each and every one of us.

Since there is not yet a High Point Daily Photo (hint, hint), we like to share post from down that way every once in a while. The High Point Theatre, located at 220 East Commerce Avenue, is billed as being one of the finest stage and gallery spaces in the southeast. From grand, elaborate performances like the Nutcracker ballet to fireside music events like Nanci Griffith, we have enjoyed every single event we have seen there. Here's to a great weekend for all of us and finding a little spot that makes us feel cozy.

Happy 85th Birthday, Carolina Theatre

Last night, hundreds of people braved the winds of Hurricane Sandy to watch and celebrate the premiere of Paula Damasceno's documentary film about the Carolina Theatre. Carolina 85 features the glamourous as well as the rocky history of the theater. At the time it opened on October 31st, 1927, the 2,200-seat Carolina Theatre was the showcase of the Carolinas. In the documentary, one patron called it, a "palace for the poor." People could go and bask in the "light of the dark" to enjoy a movie. Damasceno documents the theater's transformation from a seggreated venue to one one that embraces diversity. The film documents the theater's many other obstacles, including surviving the decline of downtown Greensboro, financial struggles, structural setbacks, and extensive fire damage. 

The above photo features the reception and partaking of the birthday cake onstage, at the conclusion of the documentary. All were invited to the afterparty, a befitting gesture appropriate for Damasceno's humble demeanor. She made it clear that, for her, "The community, who support this theater, make it beautiful." Thank you, Paula Damasceno, and all involved, for documenting the history of one of Greensboro's cultural treasures. In the above photo, Damasceno, second from the left, has her right arm extended in conversation with an attendee (quite possibly the youngest) who was extremely interested in film.

                                                                    

Dance Center of State Street

We lament the "passing" of the Saltbox, a Greensboro store that closed earlier this year after thirty eight years in business. Their specialty candles and folk art collection were fabulous. We will be especially nostalgic for their fall and winter treasures and events.

Fortunately, the Dance Center of Greensboro has moved into their building, bringing positive energy and movement back to that little corner of State Street (at Golden Gate). State Street is starting to develop a niche market in wellness and rejuvenation. From plastic surgery to massage, to the magic, spells, and potions offered at Eclectic by Nature, there is a little something for everyone on this charming little street. The Dance Center should be a perfect fit. State Street, their second Greensboro location, is situated in the heart of McAdoo Heights. Let's hope we see dancers coming and going from this building for a very long time.

Let's also keep our fingers crossed that Nancy Moore (owner of the gone-but-not-forgotten Saltbox) finds a little place to work her retail magic. 

Campfires and Constellations

Campfires and Constellations is a genre-defying, little-bit-of- Americana, little- bit-of-rock-and-roll, country-with-a driving-beat BAND currently based out of Chapel Hill, North Carolina. All five musicians are UNC students from North Carolina and, Ernest Thompson, the banjo player (first row, left) is from Greensboro. Ernest developed his banjo style while taking lessons from Greensboro's ever talented Scott Manring. The other instruments represented in the band are guitar, bass, and percussion. The guys have such diverse interests and backgrounds and are talented not only musically but academically. 

The band was in Greensboro last night for a live performance on UNCG's radio station WUAG FM 103.1. If you want to hear their music, go here. If you like what you hear, head on over to the Facebook page for Campfires and Constellations and give them a "like." 

MUSEP 2012- Guilford College

Once the Fourth of July has passed and MUSEP at Guilford College has come and gone, summer begins to feel as if it is waning. Today, locals braved the 100+ degree heat to enjoy the MUSEP Concert at Guilford College on Founder's Lawn. The Eastern Music Festival's Young Artists were enjoyed by all. The young guest conductor of the orchestra yesterday evening, Demondrae Thurman, was a euphonium player from Alabama.  We heard everything from Moon River to Star Wars to Stars and Stripes to a medley of pieces from West Side Story from the two orchestras that played.

Patrick Dougherty's installation, which we affectionately named Stickhenge, is still in place over a year later serving as a backdrop to the event. With all of its entrance and exit arches, this larger-than-life assemblage of twigs keeps children entertained while their parents enjoyed the  music. Fun was had by all, AND FOR FREE, at this MUSEP concert. There are seven remaining MUSEP concerts. If you haven't been to one, clear your calendar on an upcoming Sunday evening. You won't be disappointed; especially if you bring a picnic basket full of food and a few friends to enjoy the concerts with you.

 

 

 

First Friday Fun

July is well under way. Above is a scene at Elements Gallery, 526 South Elm Street, taken at last night's First Friday celebration. Greensboro has some great artists, visual and performing alike, and Elements Gallery is a co-op of about 45 artists. They all work together to keep this gallery dynamic and stocked with colorful items..

Last night, Vance Archer was playing fiddle. He also sells painted blocks of wood in the gallery. (Unfortunately, we didn't get the name of the guitar player). At last night's event, people enjoyed seeing the paintings, jewelry, pottery and other items offered for sale.  During First Friday, Elements Gallery serves light appetizers and beverages, as do many of the galleries.

If you missed First Friday downtown, today, you can head to the festivities in the Lindley Park neighborhood. They will be celebrating from 12-8pm at the corner of Walker and Elam Avenues.

MUSEP- Lindley Park

Sunday Evening Music in the Park this week was at Lindley Park and the event was extremely well attended. Sunday's MUSEP patrons had a double treat as two different blues, R&B, jazz and soul groups performed: Sweet Dreams and Knights of Soul. The weather was perfect and everyone seemed to be having a lovely time. As seen in the photo above, people brought picnic meals, blankets, children, pets, and positive attitudes. 

According to their literature, the MUSEP concerts are celebrating 33 years of outstanding concerts. If you haven't discovered them yet, it isn't too late. Next week's concert will be at Hagan-Stone Park, again a double header. Lindley Park will host another great event this upcoming Saturday, Summer Solstice. We think the landowner/horticulturist for whom Lindley Park was named, John Van Lindley, would be pleased to see people enjoying his former property.

 

Mosaic of Children 2012

Greensboro's 2012 Mosaic Festival was held this last weekend. Mosaic is an annual food, music, art, and dance festival that builds community among the diverse ethnic groups in Greensboro. The event is a place for people of all ethnicities, races, ages, socio-economic groups, political beliefs, and educational levels to come together for an afternoon. This past Saturday, the weather was beautiful. From university professors to bare-footed toddlers, fun was had by all. The venue, Festival Park at 200 North Davie Street, was perfect. The above photo of children playing in harmony captures the spirit of the event. For an afternoon, people focused on similarities; not differences. It was beautiful. 

Almost 5,000 people were in attendance. Church World Services, the events host, organzied a Kickstarter project for the festival. The project did not receive full funding and they are still accepting pledges. How about paying it forward and making a little donation to the project (here). They need about $1,200 more dollars by Wednesday to reach the 2,500 goal for the project. Kickstarter is "all-or-none." Without the additional funding, they lose it all. If you are local, your donation will help our community. If you are not local, consider donating and then using this project as a template for a multi-cultural project in your own community. Donate here. 

The Gallucci Family & Studio B at the Broach Theater

Studio B at the Broach (520 South Elm Street) is "where business and pleasure meet" in downtown Greensboro. Last night, as part of the June 1st, First Friday Celebration,  Studio B hosted the Gallucci, Galludci, Gallucci, and Gallucci exhibit. In the above photo, the Galluccis (Jim, Kathy, Mario, and Madeline) and their work can be seen around the room. The damaging, high winds, that knocked the power out for at least an hour, did not keep the Gallucci family from attending the exhibit and offering visitors doses of their artwork, hospitality, and appetizers. We have featured Jim's sculptures before on GDP (here and here) and have just learned that his whole family has artistic talent. We're betting that a family that practices art together stays together! Here's to the Gallucci Family for making Greensboro a more beautiful and FUN place. We think the man in blue and doing a sound check from above might be Mario. Notice the yellow, urban bench in the middle of the room, where you can whisper sweet nothings to the person at the other end through the bell-tube!

Greensboro is lucky to have Studio B at the Broach. They have created a very New-York-loft/gallery-look right here in downtown. We're sharing this with our friends at Weekend Reflections.

 

UNCG's SALSA Group

Today, we're featuring S.A.L.S.A., the Spanish American Latino Student Association, from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG). The group was performing at El día de los niños at Center City Park on Saturday.

S.A.L.S.A. was founded at UNCG, Spring 1992 by five students. While the organization has grown considerably, it remains true to its purpose of providing a place for Hispanic/Latino students at UNCG to come together for fellowship and to celebrate their heritate, to enhance the UNCG community's understanding of the Hispanic/Latino cultures, and to be of service to Hispanics/Latinos living in our area.* As soon as the above members were finished performing, they invited the audience up to dance with them.  It was great to see so much fun and positive energy as they moved around the stage. Don't let the name S.A.L.S.A. fool you. They do so much more than dance! While the organization may be winding down as their school semester comes to a close, you can stay in touch with S.A.L.S.A. through their facebook page.

*reference.

O is for Greensboro's Orchestra & Opera

Greensboro is lucky to have an opera. Unfortunately, as of September 15, 2011, Greensboro Opera is staffed exclusively by volunteers. They no longer have an executive director (Barbara Peters) or a company manager (Elena DeAngelis). The date of the last eNewsletter, coincides with their last days at work. Last year, at this time, eNewsletters were still being published. There is a luncheon event tomorrow at the Greensboro Country Club Pavillon, related to opera action and fighting on stage. Let's hope they can generate revenue so that Greensboro can continue to have an opera. They want to have a production November 2012; however, it would cost $160,000 and the board anticipates that they would only sell $50,000 in tickets*. We can't imagine our city without the quality, full operas with live music. We also hope they can maintain their program of performing for fifth graders at the Guilford County Schools.

The Greensboro Symphony Orchestra seems to be doing a little better, financially. They still have confirmed events on the 2012 calendar. The symphony orchestra presents so many outreach and education programs, bringing live, classical music to a generation that might otherwise never hear it. The conductor, Soviet/Russian-born Dmitry Sitkovetsky works tirelessly to generate interest in the orchestra's performances. He collaborates frequently with his mother, pianist Bella Davidovich. His mother draws quite a crowd when she performs with the Greensboro Orchestra. We are lucky to have these talented musicians in a leadership role in our community. The Greensboro Orchestra traces its roots to the 1920's.

In the photo above, the acoustic, upright bass, and the mask peeking out behind it, belong to a Greensboro family that loves all of the live performances in the Greensboro community. Today is ABC Wednesday and O is for opera and orchestra.

*reference and read more here.

 

 

 

 

 

M is for Music

Today is ABC Wednesday and 'M' is for 'music'. Local musician Laurelyn Dossett makes beautiful music! Laurelyn performs weekly at Lucky 32 Restaurant. Each Tuesday, in addition to their regular menu, Lucky 32 serves up a traditional, southern meal of fried chicken, mashed potatoes, gravy, cornbread, and collards. Nothing goes with fried chicken better than Laurelyn's clear voice and acoustic music. Laurelyn has gained national attention for her local projects, grounded in the lore of North Carolina. 

In the above photo, Laurelyn, Scott Manring and Molly McGinn are performing the "Vote Against Amendment One" song. Listen to it  here on Monkeywhale Productions' website. From Rabbi Guttman to Mayor Robbie Perkins to restaurateurs Mr. and Mrs. Quaintance, many prominent citizens of Greensboro appeal to voters to vote against Amendment One on May 8th. Read about Amendment 1 here. 

Battle of Guilford Courthouse-- Reenactment 2012

The Battle of Guilford Courthouse was reenacted at Country Park this past weekend. Thanks to The Greensboro Parks and Recreation Department, the volunteers, the Guilford Battleground Company, the reenactors who came from all over, and the sponsors, the 2012 event was a huge success. By day, the weather was cooperative; however, when asked if the weather bothered her, a sutler (non-miliatry participant) smiled and said, "It doesn't bother me. It is always wet at Guilford". Soggy ground and mud did not dampen the spirts of the enthusiastic participants.

The purpose of the reenactment it to teach attendees about life in the colonial period, specifically in Guilford County. To be invited back, participants wares and demonstrations must be authentic; they must interact well with visitors and other participants; and they must obey site rules and guidelines. There are three categories of participants: Military, sutler (non-military), and craftsmen/demonstrators.

When the above photo was taken, the Battle of Guilford Courthouse was well under way and the Redcoats were just up the hill. The reenactment site is tucked neatly behind the Spencer Love Tenis Facility, in the location where Pow-Wow is held. We feel sorry for anyone who was out walking or driving nearby who didn't know the event was a reenactment. Cannons and guns firing made quite a ruckus. If you did not attend this year, put it on your calendar for next March. Stop back to GDP and see more photos of the event over the next few days.

.......... Alas, it is back to the 21st century for our family!

Dudley's Panther and Tyca Clowning Around

Tyca the clown and the Dudley Senior High School panther-mascot were out entertaining children during the MLK parade in January. Tyca the Clown was incorporated in 2007. He is frequently seen around town twisting balloons into all kinds of shapes for children to enjoy. Children know him by name and respond gleefully to his rainbow hair, outfits, expressive face paint, as well as to his animated persona in general. His address is listed online as 4425 South Danby Castle Road, Greensboro NC, 27407. Unfortunately, we didn't see a website or phone number. However, SOMEBODY must know how to get in touch with Tyca as he is seen working everywhere!

The suited panther, represents the royal blue and gold Dudley High School off of East Lee Street. Children enjoy waving and interacting with that furry larger-than-life creature. When you see him, you can be pretty sure that the Dudley band or sports team is somewhere nearby!

Happy Friday folks. Also, happy Skywatch Friday. We're sharing this photo with the rest of the sky-loving world.

High Lonesome Strings Bluegrass Association

The High Lonesome Strings Bluegrass Association is a group of local musicians that meets to play bluegrass music. The organization is open to anyone with an acoustic instrument who is interested in the bluegrass genre. People of all playing abilities are welcome to join. The group meets once a month; in fall and winter, they meet on the bottom floor of the Greensboro Cultural Arts Center at 200 N. Davie Street. Members bring a an instrument and jam, jam, jam!. In May, they sponsor Pickin' in the Park at Hagan Stone Park in Pleasant Garden, where they meet from April-September.

On Sunday, some members were playing in the hallway, in the above circle. Others were in the concert room to the right, seated and playing. Somebody was selling CD's. Great fun was had by all. Seeing everyone standing around in a near-perfect circle, it reminds us of the song, "Will the Circle Be Unbroken". Grab your fiddle, rosin up your bow, and head on down. Nothing beats hanging out with people who share your common interests. Greensboro's bluegrass community is comprised of great people who will make you feel welcome.

Dudley High School Marching Band

Here we see a photo of the Dudley High School Marching Band marching its heart out at the 2011 Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade. If you are local and can be there by 11 a.m., RUN to Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive to attend the parade this year. You will see many bands from Guilford County Schools marching their hearts out; floats with participants tossing candy; adept equestrians on their horses; fraternities and sororities walking and riding with their brothers and sisters; inspirational drum lines with their cadence;  and people from all walks of life out showing respect. Participants and onlookers will be rallying for the dream of equality in America. Today is one of the top service learning days in Greensboro and, while teachers and students are out of school for this holiday, many are out making  civic contributions. Perhaps we should consider monthly service learning days. People working in concert to help those in need and combining their effort for the good of the whole community would be wonderful!

Dudley High School, located on East Lee Street and not too far from today's parade route, was founded in 1929 as the first black high school in Guilford County. Since 1971, the school has been integrated. We wish Dudley High had more history archived on their website. Dudley High School is located just down the street from Bennett College and North Carolina A&T University, two historically black institutions of higher education. Often aligned with Bennett and A&T's efforts, Dudley High School has participated significantly in some of the civil rights milestones in the city. Also, Dudley's faculty and administration have made significant contributions in our city's efforts towards intigration. Read a, now retired, former principal's narrative here. And, here is a Wiki entry listing the names of people you will recognize who attended Dudley. Go Panthers!

'Twas the Night Before Christmas

Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse........ Actually, the audience was waiting patiently for Billy "Crash" Craddock to come out on stage to entertain them. And, according to people who attended, the performance was outstanding. The event was held at the Liberty Showcase, located in Liberty, NC on 101S Fayetteville Street. The community of Liberty is about 20 minutes southeast of Greensboro, in Randolph County. Liberty Showcase features live entertainment just about every Saturday night and this Saturday, New Year's Eve, is sure to be great, fun, family entertainment.

We love the above photo as it exudes a cozy feeling of enjoying an evening with family and friends. It also evokes a feeling of anticipation, waiting for something special. So many families around the world tonight will be doing just that........ waiting.......... and waiting.......... for a little old driver so lively and quick, they will know when they see him, it must be Saint Nick! Ho! Ho! Ho! Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night.

....Thanks to Mitch Luther for another great photo. As we are about to begin our fourth year of Greensboro Daily Photo and posting DAILY, we're growing rather fond of an occassional photo from a guest photograhper. Every day comes around pretty often!

W is for Whittington

Keep spreading the news! We're here to stay. Love being part it..... our Triad Stage! No vagabond shoes; no little town blues! Love every day of it...... our Triad Stage! The above photo is of the exuberant Richard Whittington, co-founder and managing director of Greensboro's Triad Stage. 

Originally from Dallas Texas, Rich Whittington attended the Yale School of Drama. He and business partner Preston Lane conducted a nationwide search and Greensboro was the largest market without an established, regional theater. In 2001, they converted the abandoned Montgomery Ward building on Elm Street into a theater and dubbed it Triad Stage. The first performance was held in 2001- Suddenly Last Summer by Tennessee Williams- and Triad Stage has been getting rave reviews. Recently, Triad Stage was named one of the top 10 most promising theaters to have emerged in the last 15 years. This designation came from the American Theater Wing, the same group that determines the Tony Awards!

When asked what the biggest surprises have been for him since opening Triad Stage, Mr. Whittington said, they didn't anticipate the changes in Greensboro's textile industry and the loss of jobs to the local economy. Also, they had no way to anticipate that the 9/11 attacks would happen three months before their first performance. However, Whittington and Lane are pleased about the extent to which the Greensboro community supports Triad Stage. Mr. Whittington says that not only classics but also new plays are well attended here. Look here for upcoming opportunities to attend a performance at Triad Stage.

Today is ABC Wednesday and for our People of Greensboro Series, W is for Whittington. We are so glad Mr. Whittington and Mr. Lane opened a regional theater in Greensboro and can't wait to follow the theater's continued growth over the next decade!

Inside the Carolina Theatre

We've meaning to take you inside the Carolina Theatre for a while now. Above, you see a portion of this regal place. Opening Halloween night 1927, the 2,200 seat theatre is known as the "Showplace of the Carolinas." Imagine the reaction to this opulent interior to the Depression-era audiences who came to be transported into a world of movies and Vaudeville performances. Today, the theater operates as a non-profit with the mission of "Presenting Arts, Preserving History." Read more about the history here; read about President and CEO Holliday here. 

Recently, the Carolina Theatre finished their wildly successful annual showing of the Rocky Horror Picture Show. At the moment, they're in the middle of CTG's Wizard of Oz production. Next, Carolina Theatre's December schedule includes not only live concerts but also the Greensboro Ballet's Nutcracker performances. Finally, for those who celebrate Christmas, what holiday season would be complete without seeing the movie classics, White Christmas, Miracle on 34th Street, and It's a Wonderful Life on the big screen? Be one of the 90,000 patrons-a-year to support this local treasure by attending an event. See the schedule here.

Greek Festival

Greensboro's Greek Festival is upon us! It will be held all day today and tomorrow at the Dormition of the Theotokos Church at 800 Westridge Road. If predictions are correct, 13,000 people will visit the festival that has been going strong since 1974. Music and dancing will be available all weekend. There is a Greek Market (The Agora), a Taverna with food, food, food, and RAFFLES galore. Last year, the church sponsored a session of "Orthodoxy 101" and taught guests about the orthodox faith. We're sure Father Newlin would love to answer your questions about his church. 

In addition to the many other activities in Greensboro, The Tate Street Festival is also happening this afternoon. Next weekend the Liberty Antiques Festival will be held. There is so much to do in mid-late September in Greensboro. We can't wait to get more photographs to share with you! Have a great weekend and start practicing your Greek. Google translate is a great place to start. Learning a few words from someone at the festival is even better.

The Westerwood Neighborhood

Every neighborhood deserves a proper entrance. Westerwood has just stepped up their identity with this new signage installed at the round-about near Benjamin Parkway, across from the park and under the big, old oak tree. The rounded sign consists of brick, stone, metal, and plaster. This neighborhoood, a mere .384 square miles with a population of 1,241, is one of Greensboro's oldest. It is well maintained and well established, has charming granite curbs, narrow tree-lined streets and plenty of architectural variety. The two spikes in demographics are for residents in their early 20's and 50's. College graduates and those with advanced degrees in this neighborhood are well above Greensboro's average. The neighborhood is known for its visual and performing artists. In early October, artists host an "art and sole" walking tour open to the public. The event is a great way to get to know the neighborhood and to commence your holiday buying with local and handmade purchases (more here). We usually start our shopping at the Fairies' Nest located in Westerwood.

Here is a house and a church in the neighborhood that we featured last year. This is a neighborhood with impromptu concerts, dog walks, music lessons, artists studios, and fun. Having front porches and houses close together help with neighborliness. How does your neighborhood rate on the neighborliness scale? Is there anything you personally could do to enhance its livability? Remember, change can start with one!

H is for Holliday, Keith Holliday

Keith Holliday, President and CEO of the Carolina Theatre of Greensboro Inc. since 2008, works tirelessly to preserve this icon of the Golden Era of entertainment and film. He helps keep it booked with diverse events that attract people from all walks of life. Formerly, Mr. Holliday was in the banking industry for twenty years and mayor of Greensboro for eight. He also served  as a council-person at-large. Through all of these incarnations, this lifelong resident (and product of Greensboro's public schools) has been a community leader, good citizen, and gracious person.

On the day that we were at the Carolina Theatre for this photo shoot, Mr. Holliday kept insisting that he be photographed in a way that highlighted the theatre's beauty. We decided to use a black and white photo because it shows details of the gilded, opulent decor.  When constructed in 1927, the glorious theatre was meant to transport Depression Era audiences with entertainment, including Vaudeville acts, and live music at an affordable price.  Mr. Holliday's love for the Carolina Theatre and for Greensboro is readily apparent within the first few minutes of talking to him, regardless of where he is standing!  Thank you Mr. Holliday for all you do for Greensboro.

Today is ABC Wednesday and "H" is for Holliday. See ABC Wednesday photos from around the world here and Greensboro's ABC series here.

The Big Lebowski at the Carolina Theatre

The Carolina Theatre, located at 310 South Greene Street, is a grand and dynamic place.  Throughout the summer, they show old movies. Nothing beats watching Alfred Hitchcock on the big screen. For Greensboro's The Big Lebowski fans, the classic movie and classic Carolina Theatre come together on Thursday, August 25th for an evening you won't want to miss. Costumes, bowling, white Russians, and audience participation are in order for the upcoming event. In the movie, Jeff Bridges is an unemployed "slacker" who loves to bowl. He gets involved in solving a kidnapping case. The movie has become a cult classic because it is so quotable and audiences love the characters (reference).

When they aren't showing movies, The Carolina Theatre might be having live shows, music events, hosting a production of the Wizard of Oz, or a Fourth of July 1776 music medley. Today, from 2:30- 7:00 p.m., the theatre is hosting The Deuterman Law Group's 3rd annual American Red Cross blood drive. Stop by today, donate blood, and purchase your tickets to next week's Lebowski event.*

While you are at it, you can marvel at the architecture of this 1927 beauty. The poster frames in the above photo are original. When The Carolina Theatre was first built, the poster holders hung outside, one on each side of the door. To preserve them, the poster holders have been moved inside to the foyer and painted green and gold. If you want to learn more about the history and architecture of this Greensboro treasure, here is a great article. Hope to see you there soon!

*Beware, The Big Lebowski is rated "R" and not just for "rowdy." The language and themes are strong in this 1998 comedy written by the famous Coen brothers. 

EMF/MUSEP 2011- Concert at Guilford College

In Greensboro, Music for a Sunday Evening in the Park (MUSEP) is soooooooooo much fun and FREE! Many people arrange a group picnic with family and friends-- bringing a cooler, blanket, and food. The music begins and you are transported into a land of heavenly music. The above photo was taken at the Guilford College/Eastern Music Festival event last Sunday. This will give you a sense of how many people take advantage of these concerts. Also, in the photo, you see the conductor giving a little boy from the audience the opportunity to "guest conduct" the group. The concert concluded with "Little Will" conducting and the EMF Young Artists Orchestra playing Stars and Stripes.

Sunday, July 17th, the Philharmonia of Greensboro will play at 6:00 at Lindley Park. The whole MUSEP schedule for the remainder of the summer can be found here. There are seven more concerts. Some people have "perfect attendance." If you are local, head out and support these musicians and this event. 

White Oak Amphitheater

Here we see a view of Greensboro's recently-opened (June 5th) White Oak Amphitheater on High Point Road. It was mostly empty on the Fourth of July when the pops concert got rained out; however, people were still free to enter and see the beautiful facility. It adds so much to our city. The amphitheater is named for the white oak, the official tree of the City of Greensboro. As you will learn if you watch this video clip about the amphitheater, Nathanael Greene's men slept under a white oak on the eve of the Battle of Guilford Courthouse at the time of the Revolutionary War. Greensboro also had a mill, The Cones' indigo dyeing operation, named White Oak; so named for a 200 year old white oak tree on the property. The white oak is one of the largest trees in the eastern U.S.

The White Oak Amphitheater is located at the corner of the Coliseum complex, on what was formerly property of the old Canada Dry plant. It seats 7,666 people. The amphitheater will feature concerts and community events. Refreshing as a crisp ginger ale on a warm summer evening is the fact that White Oak is named for something significant to the history of Greensboro-- a tree-- and is not yet named for a benefactor or corporate sponsor. We leave you with the above night view which includes a giant slice of the dusk sky over Greensboro. We are featuring this view for the world to see on Skywatch Friday. If you get a chance, attend an event at the amphitheater. It will feel like being on vacation in your hometown!

Red Hat Ladies & Accordion Man

We think these are Red Hat Ladies posing with Accordionist Bill Schwartz at the Parisian Promenade. According to their website, the Red Hat Society is "a global society of women that supports and encourages women in their pursuit of fun, friendship, freedom, fulfillment, and fitness." Well, their mission about sums up the good time that was had at Sunday's Parisian Promenade. The Parisian Promenade in Bicentennial Gardens is a little like the Easter Parade in NYC. Part of the entertainment hinges on the promenaders dressing up, bringing their parasols and their pooches. The accordionist, strolled tirelessly, serenading the promenaders. 

Accordions are popular in European folk music, especially the Lawrence-Welk-style polkas. In the USA, they are gaining in popularity, especially with the rise in interest in Cajun music. Mr. Schwartz plays more in the soulful, French tradition. We are still smiling from the fun in the park at this free event. Let's hope the funding is available to sponsor it again next year. We're sharing this post with Ruby Tuesday where the color red is the catalyst for a virtual promenade!

Skenes Chapel Holiness Church

Skenes Chapel Holiness Church, located at 350 Martin Luther King Drive, has a special history. According to a News & Record article, from December 2010, "(t)he church was built in 1907 and was one of the first in the nation to have an ordained female pastor, Bishop A. J. Lewis Richmond (established 1913)." According to the article, the church was purchased from the Quakers in 1958. While the building is still structurally sound, the last century has taken its toll on this majestic building.

A poigniant story of Skenes Chapel begins in August, 2010, when Chad McMurray was violently murdered in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Chad was raised in Greensboro and attended Skenes Chapel. He was passionate about helping his church raise the money for a new roof, paint, and other, much needed, repairs. Chad's friends have continued his fundraising effort. Leo Reitzel, owner of Reitzel Custom Builders, has generously agreed to take on the roofing job in memory of Chad, his high school classmate. Bank of America maintains the memorial fund for accepting donations. Chad's mother, June McMurray, plans to establish a chapter of Parents of Murdered Children at Skenes Chapel. 

While the church doesn't appear to have a website, you can listen to the choir sing, The Lord is my Light, here, on YouTube.

Time for the Movies

This is a great week to go to the movies with family and friends. Brassfield Cinema, located at the corner of Battleground and New Garden Road, is one of the most reasonably-priced places to view a new release. Prices range from $3.75- $6.25. True Grit, Little Fockers, The Tourist, Gulliver's Travels anyone? Out of ten movies, surely something will be of interest. 

Just before we snapped this photograph, about a dozen young folks exited, buttoning up coats and smiling. Something good must be playing.

We Wish You A Merry Christmas

Here we see a singing quartet at First Friday in Downtown Greensboro on December 3rd. What a great way to ring in the holiday with people singing carols. The first known Christmas carols date to fourth century Rome and the tradition has many interesting facets (read more here). Caroling quartets with their a capella, vocal harmonies, bring the holiday season alive. We wish we knew the name of this festive, costumed  group singing on South Elm Street. They were fabulous.

Merry Christmas Greensboro. The best Christmas present for us would be to let us know what we can post for you in the upcoming year.

R is for RELIGION

Clap, clap, pray, and thank God. According to Men's Health Magazine, Greensboro has earned the designation as the second holiest city in the USA! We are second only to Colorado Springs!  Charlotte, Durham, and Raleigh are also in the top 15, making North Carolina the HOLIEST of states! (read more here &  here). While some question the research methodology or what is actually being measured (here), undeniably, Greensboro is BIG on volunteerism, generosity, and spirituality. We at Greensboro Daily Photo know from having photographed religion in Greensboro for two years worth of Sundays that religion is extremely important in our community. 

Above, is a photo of Hey Nunnie Nunnie, a comedy act currently on stage at the Renaissance Festival in Huntersville. We thought the clapping nuns would be appropriate for our 2nd place designation. This is the last weekend of the Carolina Renaissance Festival so run, don't walk to see this fabulous comedy duo. Oh, and if you ever make it to Greensboro, you will, indeed, see a religious organization on just about every corner. (Please note, this is not meant to be disrespectful; just a way to combine two NC happenings).

For ABC Wednesday, "R" is for RELIGION-- Greensboro style! 

Carolina Renaissance Festival

Disclaimer: We are about an hour and a half south of Greensboro in Huntersville, NC. 

Here we are enjoying the entertainment on the Stage of Merriment at the Carolina Renaissance Festival. As you can see from the photo, even people at the back of the tent were interested in the entertainment: jugglers, comedy shows, a sword swallower, jousting, over 500 people milling around in costumes; plenty to keep attendees entertained. Seven weekends a year, Huntersville, NC comes alive with costumes, food, entertainment, and good times from centuries past. The buildings in the background are permanent structures in place for the one time a year when this fairground comes alive for the Renaissance Festival. This upcoming weekend is the last for the festival so, if you are in the area, we highly recommend your visiting. The outdoor acts, ten to fifteen per day per stage and there are six stages-- are included in the price of the ticket ($18 at Harris Teeter; $20 at the door). Throw on a costume and head on down and eat a bread bowl of food, steak on a stick, a turkey leg, while strolling through a replica of a 16th century village. Wikipedia explains the history of Renaissance fairs here.

We're sharing this with Mellow Yellow Monday.

Open Space Café Theater

The Open Space Cafe Theater is another place to go in Greensboro to be entertained. This photo was taken a couple of weeks ago so Jimmy Dean has left the building! Up next, at the end of November is PEEPERS by Walt Vail, the winner of the Open Space Café Theater's  (OSCT) first annual new play competition. The OSCT has been featuring live, professional theater in Greensboro for four years now. Inside is a foyer where you can buy beverages and snacks. Beyond the foyer is a small stage and also an area with cafe seating where desserts and beverages can be enjoyed while being entertained. The actors are VERY close to the audience during these performances. Sometimes they even build you, the audience, into the performance. Literally, you can reach out and touch them!

At times, the proprietor, Joe Nierle, books music acts too. This December, back by popular demand, he will be showing TRAILER PARK CHRISTMAS in December. We really enjoyed the New Year's Eve event we attended here!

The Spandex Trio-- SEE no evil; HEAR no evil; SPEAK no evil!

On Thursday afternoon, three guys in unitards were posing near Ben & Jerry's and the fountain in Friendly Center. They said they attend Grimsley and Page High Schools. Sitting around, costumed from head to toe, must have seemed like a great thing to do after a rigorous end to the first nine-weeks of classes, on a teacher workday just before Halloween! They were very entertaining and polite. We titled the photo "see no evil, hear no evil, and speak no evil," after the 17th century Japanese maxim which implies for us to be of good mind, speech, and action. At first sight, we weren't sure; however, in talking to the Spandex Trio, we concluded they were of good mind, speech and action. (The expression has a lot more meaning and symbolism in Japanese than in English where we tend merely to ascribe the meaning of looking the other way or feigning ignorance [reference and more details here]).

For the next 48 hours, Halloween costumes will be everywhere. If you see the Spandex Trio please let them know they are being featured on Greensboro Daily Photo and thank them for this creative endeavor. As for offering them candy, we're not sure how they would consume it! Trick or treat? This is our contribution to Newton Area Photo's Weekend Reflection-- notice the sky reflecting in the shades of Mr. Cobalt Blue.

"O" is for the Odell Memorial Building

"O" is for the Odell Memorial Building on the campus of Greensboro College in Downtown Greensboro. The building was constructed in 1922 with the "munificent" gift of local merchant J.A. Odell.  $100,000 is a generous donation by 2010 standards; imagine its impact in the early 20th century. The façade of the brick and concrete building remains as it was when it was built; the interior underwent renovations in the 1990's.  Odell Memorial is the nucleus of Greensboro College's fine performing arts program (reference here). For years, it was the meeting place for The Book Club of North Carolina's Town Meeting on Books.

If you are interested in the history of Greensboro College, you may know about the Odell Famliy. They were actively involved in the running of the college and female family members were schooled there. J.A. Odell was a local merchant who, in 1884 was elected president of the Durham Cotton Mill. Additionally, Mr. Odell mentored and raised a young man by the name of William H. Branson. Mr. Branson went on to be a prominent businessman. You can learn more about Mr. Odell and Mr. Branson by reading Mr. Branson's genealogy (here) and in another article (here). They both lived by the work ethic of their day: "Men rule best who have served most faithfully in every sphere to be ruled." 

If you want to support the performing arts at Greensboro College and see the Odell in all its glory, we suggest attending this weekend's performance of the musical, "Little Shop of Horrors." (336-217-7220 for tickets).  If a romantic musical about a man eating plant is not your cup of tea, we're sure the theater program would accept your donation to be used for theater scholarships.

A big thank you to ABC Wednesday for inspiring to find an "O" with historical significance in Greensboro. A heartfelt thanks to the faithful readers of Greensboro Daily Photo!