Still Boxing By Monica Jones Some people slow down at 88. Jerry Farber books another show. “I’m still in the ring,” he said. “It’s late rounds, but I’m still boxing.” He was in Atlanta for a run of shows when we spoke — quick, warm, already moving — still stacking gigs like it’s a competitive sport. That’s Jerry. When I asked him how he’s still doing it, he didn’t go for the easy line. No…
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When what is on screen ain’t what the real story is about By Andy Carpenter On a chilly winter morning, a group of filmmakers stood around a kitchen while cold rain pinged on the tin roof. Everyone tucked into their coffees, contemplating the day ahead. A mother of one of the actors preparing for his scene suddenly asked, “What is the story about?” It was a reasonable question; as the writer and director of the…
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A Night Out with Riverdance By Monica Jones There are moments when we don’t need another obligation, another errand, or another item on the calendar. What we need instead is to step outside of our routine and into something that reminds us why we love being here at all. On February 10, Riverdance will arrive at RiverCenter with exactly that kind of invitation. For some, the name Riverdance brings up a set of familiar images:…
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Inside Columbus Ballet’s 29th Year of Holiday Magic Images provided by the Columbus Ballet (@braxleestudios) By Monica Jones Each December, just as Columbus starts to glow with lights and wreaths, another kind of magic begins to stir at RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. Backstage, pointe shoes are being broken in, tutus sewn and resewn, and young dancers run their variations again and again until the counts live in their bones. This year, that familiar ritual…
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Gary Mullen & The Works Return to Columbus This Sunday For One Night of Queen By Monica Jones When Gary Mullen answers the phone, he doesn’t sound like a man easing his way to the finish line of a long tour. He sounds wired. Focused. Laughing, he jokes that his recovery playlist has basically been “Eye of the Tiger on repeat,” all in preparation for finally making it to Columbus. After illness forced the postponement…
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Gary Mullen and the Works Bring Queen’s Legacy to Columbus to Kick off RiverCenter New Season By Monica Jones Get ready to rock, Columbus. The RiverCenter for the Performing Arts is kicking off its new season in high style. We’re talking about a full-throttle, high-energy rock show fit for a queen – literally. On December 7th, the stage will come alive with the electrifying tribute performance, One Night of Queen, featuring the man who channels…
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The Springer Opera House Does October Right By Jhai James Temperatures are cooling, the leaves are starting to turn, and there’s a distinct chill in the air—and it’s not just the fall weather. This October, Columbus’s historic Springer Opera House is conjuring up a month-long celebration of all things spooky, silly, and spectacular. From laugh-out-loud comedy to spine-tingling ghost tours and a certain cult-classic film, the State Theatre of Georgia is the place to be…
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How We Filmed Two Feature Films in Two Years By Paul Rowe This story begins the way all great cinematic adventures should: with three guys in lawn chairs, pre-pandemic, talking big dreams and bad ideas. It somehow ends with the legendary scream queen Dee Wallace. This is partly a story about my personal journey, but I hope that somewhere in here you’ll find the nudge to start that script or film you’ve been putting off,…
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Jazz Society Celebrates 38 Years with Inaugural Fundraiser The LocaL Staff In the heart of Columbus, a new rhythm is stirring. For nearly four decades, the Columbus Jazz Society has been the keeper of a timeless legacy, nurturing a community of musicians and fans united by a shared love for America’s quintessential art form. They’ve brought soulful melodies to our streets and provided a stage for local artists.Their dedication has been a quiet, powerful force,…
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The Wiz Returns with Soul and Spectacle By The LocaL Staff For many, the story of Dorothy Gale and her journey through the Land of Oz is etched into the fabric of childhood memories. We’ve skipped with her down the Yellow Brick Road, giggled at the Scarecrow’s wit, been touched by the Tin Man’s longing heart, and rallied behind the Cowardly Lion. But what if that familiar path took a vibrant detour, drenched in rhythm,…
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