Rose Theatre Brampton Backstage Pass

Spotlight on Lexie Dorsett

noreply@blogger.com (Rose Theatre Brampton) — Fri, 18 May 2012 18:13:00 +0000

Set to hit the Rose Theatre stage on May 22nd, Young Frankenstein promises to be a "monster-sized masterpiece", as stated in the April-May edition of Odeum magazine. A combination of brilliant writing and direction, choreography, and a phenomenal cast gives credit to this statement. Spotlight on Lexie Dorsett, lead actress giving life to the role of Elizabeth, Dr. Frankenstein's narcissistic mad-cap fiancée. Originally from Birmingham, Alabama, Dorsett is a New York based actress who recently graduated from the Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music. Here, she obtained her bachelor of fine arts degree and played such roles as Reno Sweeny in Anything Goes and Sheila in Hair. Other notable performances at the conservatory include Bat Boy, Little Women and Wonderful Town. Professionally, Dorsett has graced the stage playing such roles as Sharpay Evans in High School Musical, Jolene Oaks in Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, and Nancy in Oliver! Dorsett has also performed with both the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra and the Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. Wow! Talk about a triple threat! As a professional actress, Young Frankenstein is Dorsett's national tour debut. A huge "break a leg" to her from all of us here at the Rose Theatre as we look forward to having her perform on our stage.

To read more about Young Frankenstein including other cast members, be sure to check out the full article in the April-May edition of Odeum magaizine.

National Volunteer Week

noreply@blogger.com (Rose Theatre Brampton) — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 21:00:00 +0000

Centre Stage 2012 Volunteer Group

It's National Volunteer Week and we'd like to take a minute to thank the hundreds of Brampton Theatre volunteers who are such an integral part of our success. Our volunteer ushers greet every guest with a smile and ensure that all our events run smooth. We truly couldn't do what we do without them.

Thank you for giving so much of your time and for your commitment to our community.

A "Random" Career - Sheena Easton

noreply@blogger.com (Rose Theatre Brampton) — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 18:03:00 +0000

A far cry from the overscheduled musical career she experienced in the 80s, Sheena Easton, now 52, is enjoying a slowed down, well-paced life. Easton's rise to fame began when she was showcased on the TV Series "The Big Time”, a documentary which gave amateur artists the opportunity to achieve professional ambitions. Subsequently, she was offered a multi-album deal from EMI Records and soon rose to the top of the pop charts with her singles "Morning Train (9 to 5)" and "For Your Eyes Only".

Easton also had the privilege to work with world renowned Artist/Writer/Producer, Prince. He saw Easton on The Tonight Show and asked her to lay down a vocal track for his song "Sugar Walls". From there, they became good friends. "He would come into town and say 'Come down and hear something I'm doing' and I'd listen to a track," Easton recalls in the April-May edition of Odeum. Click here to check out the full article.

Sheena Easton will be live at the Rose Theatre on Saturday April 28.

Remember the Music? Plain and Simple...

noreply@blogger.com (Rose Theatre Brampton) — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 17:56:00 +0000

Ever heard of a concert that has no lighting cues, flashy dancers or interaction with the audience? Well, I didn't either until I found out about Classic Albums Live. Founded by Craig Martin, 50, this concert phenomenon recreates, to a tee, the most famous rock/pop albums of the century. What an amazing concept! Take away all the flash, the lip syncing, the dancers, the propaganda, and what are you left with? The music, plain and simple. That is what some artists forget about these days I find, the music. They rely whole-heartedly on the commercialism of the industry and their own self-promotion, often forgetting the reason that they began performing in the first place. "We're going to stand there and play and recite the album perfectly," explains Craig Martin in this month's Odeum. "We won't be talking to the audience. We won't be wearing costumes. It'll be the most boring show of the year, and yet, somehow, people will enjoy themselves immensely and it will strike a sublime chord with the audience and they'll go, 'This is one of the best shows I've ever seen'." To read more about Classic Albums Live, see the full article in the April-May edition of Odeum Magazine.

About Ladies and Violins

noreply@blogger.com (Rose Theatre Brampton) — Thu, 08 Mar 2012 22:17:00 +0000

Celebrating Women's Day, Rose Theatre brings Quebec Violin Super Star Angèle Dubeau and La Pietà to the stage. As a omnipresent woman, Dubeau can be found in different places. You can watch her hosting television programs; listen to her on the radio or right in your own home if you are one of the 450,000+ fans who own one of her albums. A nod to her success, Dubeau is accredited with two gold records which she recorded with her prominent violin "Des Rosiers" Stradivarius 1733 by her side.

Her success can be attributed to more than thirty years of hard work and a special combination of classic and contemporary music. Along with the all female string ensemble of La Pietà, which she founded in 1997, Dubeau travelled the world sharing the group’s musical beauty and feminine power. This is the perfect show to celebrate Women’s Day! Let us celebrate together tonight at the Rose.

Happy Women's Day!

Angèle Dubeau and La Pietà can be found in the March edition of Odeum Magazine

Travelling Troubadour - Michael Kaeshammer

noreply@blogger.com (Rose Theatre Brampton) — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 17:29:00 +0000

Similar to early musicians, Michael Kaeshammer is living a nomadic life by choice. This 35-years-old musician says this is a time in his life for freedom. With no forwarding address, he is taking the opportunity to soak up a new world. Kaeshammer started following this “philosophy” a few months ago and it makes sense when you see his schedule from 2011 which included more than 50 concerts throughout Canada, U.S., Germany and Israel.

As a child, growing up in Germany, Michael was surrounded by his father's favourite music – ragtime, boogie and gospel. Those influences are evident in his current style which showcases repertoire with hints of 20s and 30s jazz blended with pop, rock and a whole lot of soul. Tonight, Canada's Boogie Woogie King makes his home in Brampton where he will share his experience and talent with the audience at the Rose Theatre.

There are still a few tickets available for tonight's performance. Call the Box Office at 905-874-2800.

Are you curious to know more about Michael Kaeshammer? Click here to read Nick Krewen's article in the March issue of Odeum Magazine.

Tributes to a Classic Era of Music

noreply@blogger.com (Rose Theatre Brampton) — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 15:13:00 +0000

We caught up with John Oriettas who plays Paul in Replay the Beatles. Here's what he had to say about their show John, Paul, George & Ringo, the band and loving The Beatles!

So, why the Beatles?

Why not Beatles?! They were the biggest band when we were growing up. And still are the best.

Does the band have a case of beatlemania?

No just a case of beer once in a while!

What is your biggest challenge in presenting a tribute to the Beatles?

Doing such an amazing band justice. The music the sound the look. It is a very high bar to set and attain.

If you could choose one Beatle to play with you, who would you choose? Why?

I would love to play with all 4, but since I play "Paul" he would be my choice.

Do you have a favourite Beatles era?

I love 1962-63 when the Beatles were starting to see it all coming together just before the -/!# hit the fan and Beatlemania captured the world. That must have been a very exciting time to be a Beatle.

If you liked Replay The Beatles, you might enjoy an upcoming tribute to another classic band, The Doors. Classic Albums Live presents L.A. Woman on April 18 at 8pm.

Introducing Kaamar Thiya to the Rose Art Gallery

noreply@blogger.com (Rose Theatre Brampton) — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 21:16:00 +0000

To put it simply, the work of Indian-born artist Kaamar Thiya, is stunning and unforgettable. His canvas captures a sense of mystery, with vibrant colors that play with light and shadow.

Discovered by the actor and celebrity Suresh Menon in 2004, Thiva specializes in works that express a photographic effect. His work will be exhibited in the Rose Theatre Gallery from March 8 – June 7. When you see it for yourself you will quickly understand why Menon has made many pieces part of his personal collection. Most of Kaamar's famous pictures display Indian women presented with sensuality and an unusual mysticism. It's a style that truly intrigues the naked eye.

Kamar was born in India, the youngest of seven children and started painting at six years of age. An insatiable artist, he was encouraged by his family to pursue artistic proficiency by taking his Masters in Fine Arts. There, he developed a unique style of drawing he terms “psychological line drawings”. The critics say he's following in the footsteps of another important Indian artist Anish Kapoor.

Visitors to the gallery are welcome any time the Rose is open. Check in with the Box Office or Security for complimentary access. The current show by Janet Simmons Sweet runs until March 3.

Lost Sessions

noreply@blogger.com (Rose Theatre Brampton) — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 15:34:00 +0000

Peter Appleyard performs to a sold out
Studio Two audience - Feb. 24/12

The great jazz vibes player, Peter Appleyard, recently played to a full house in the Rose Theatre Studio Jazz Series. As usual, Appleyard left the audience hankering for more, and to their delight, he had a new CD for sale. I should probably say new-old CD, as the title, “Peter Appleyard and the Jazz Giants – Lost Sessions 1974”, very aptly describes,. That’s right – 1974. And what a gem it is, featuring Peter Appleyard – vibes; Hank Jones – piano; Zoot Sims – tenor sax; Slam Stewart – bass; Bobby Hackett – cornet; Mel Lewis – drums; Urbie Green – trombone.

Appleyard toured with Benny Goodman in the 1970’s and in 1974 The Benny Goodman Sextet brought together this incredible aggregate of musicians. Appleyard took advantage of having these all-stars together and brought them into the studio to record some of the best tunes ever written – “Sophisticated Lady”, “After You’ve Gone”, “Tangerine”, You Don’t Know What Love Is”, “But Beautiful”, “You Go To My Head”, “Dancing on the Ceiling”, and more. It has been nearly 40 years since the recording and every tune still holds up today. No great surprise with these guys making it happen!

Click here to get your copy of Peter Appleyard and the Jazz Giants - Lost Sessions 1974.

Splashing Around isn't just for the little kids

noreply@blogger.com (Rose Theatre Brampton) — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 21:32:00 +0000

This was a weekend for the kids of all ages at Rose Theatre. Along with Splash & Boots, they played with color, music and dance. Backstage Pass asked Sylvia Eng, whose husband attended with her son Emery (2.5) his friend William (2.5) and William's father, to comment on the experience.

Sylvia told us the boys loved it a lot, "Although at this age they did not have the attention span to sit and watch the whole show it seems they spent half the show watching and participating as asked and the other half being wild animals with the other kids. I was worried about that type of reaction, but the performers and the whole atmosphere was inviting and playful, the kids playing did not seem to be a disturbance".

She added as well that the show continued at home. "Emery and William really enjoyed the dancing and that is what they brought home with them. Emery proudly said, “I did singing and dancing with everyone”.

As all good children’s performers do, Splash & Boots extended the fun to the adults. Sylvia elaborated that the fathers "enjoyed watching the kids react to the performance and to each other".

Asked if she would recommend the show, Sylvia, as did other parents who attended, gave an emphatic, "yes". "It was a very positive experience and a great introduction to live performance in a worry free accessible environment. It was also nice that our boys got to have this daddy and son experience, as moms we often participate in somewhat similar programs during the week at rec centers and other organized play groups. This was a unique, quality experience for the dads at a time that fit a working dad’s schedule."

Look for more Little Sprouts programming in the 12-13 season.

Talking About Jazz King Peter Appleyard

noreply@blogger.com (Rose Theatre Brampton) — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 16:58:00 +0000

Was this your first interview with Mr. Appleyard?
I had the good fortune of interviewing Peter Appleyard for the first time more than 20 years ago. I was co-host of a live talk show in the southwestern Ontario region called Daytime. Peter appeared on the to perform and it was my pleasure to chat with him on-air. Our paths have crossed from time to time since then.

Are you a fan of Mr Appleyard’s music personally?’
Whether or not you’re a fan of the jazz music genre, it would be impossible not to admire and respect the musical talents of Peter Appleyard. Having said that, yes! I am a great fan of Peter’s.

What take away's can you share from following Mr. Appleyard's life and career?
Peter has accomplished so much in his musical career – not just in Canada and the US, but around the world! He has dedicated his life to being the best at what he does. This kind of accomplishment comes only through hard work and perseverance. Through all this, Peter has remained a kind and caring person, giving of his time to many charities and mentoring up-and-coming jazz musicians.

Will you be attending the concert? Are you hoping to hear a particular tune?
Yes, I will be at the show but anything Peter plays will be a magical, musical journey.

You can read Gabriella's interview with the illustrious Peter Appleyard in the February issue of Odeum.

If you enjoy Peter Appleyard's music you might also be a fan of Michael Kaeshammer, another brilliant pianist and Canada's boogie-woogie king coming to the Rose to perform his brand of pop-tinged jazz on March 7.

We're Going to Ireland. Do you have a ticket?

noreply@blogger.com (Rose Theatre Brampton) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 21:28:00 +0000

This Thursday, we're taking a long journey from the Rose Theatre to Ireland. Ok, we aren't really leaving Brampton but we're feeling pretty inspired by the epic journey of the Irish Celts of days gone by. The National Dance Company of Ireland will be our tour guides on a beautiful journey through the Irish dance tradition accompanied by the sensual sound of the Bodhran (Irish drum) and the suave harp in a power house troupe that also includes three tenors and 22 dancers. We are talking about Rhythm of the Dance. In his February Odeum article, Harry Currie says the show is possibly even better than Riverdance! High praise and sure, somewhat subjective. Either way, the audience will discover a fantastic world of beauty and rhythm. Click here to read more about it.

The Ukranian Dictionary of Dance

noreply@blogger.com (Rose Theatre Brampton) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 17:11:00 +0000

Acrobatic Agility. Ballet. Contemporary. Drama. Exuberance. Flexibility. If you'd like to know how Shumka at 50 explores the “Dictionary of the Ukranian Dance Lexicon”, Feb Odeum Magazine provides a thorough explanation. In Jon Eben Field's article, you'll also discover some interesting historical facts on Ukranian immigration to Canada and how their amazing dance style has become an integral part of Canada’s heritage.

But if you want to see it with your own eyes, the opportunity is tomorrow when the Shumka Dancers from Edmonton come to the Rose Theatre. Featuring 50 virtuosic dancers and 50 years of history. Yes, they celebrate 50 years of passionate Ukrainian heritage! Come and be part of this milestone celebration.

Read Jon Eben Field's full article on Shumka at 50 here

What Theatre Can Teach Us About Love

noreply@blogger.com (Rose Theatre Brampton) — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 17:25:00 +0000

The theatre is full of unforgettable lovers. The most famous of them, Romeo and Juliet, is to contemporary theatre, what Adam and Eve are to the original love story from the Bible. From them have born many more forbidden love stories.

Children learn early about the trouble that love can cause. Thanks to the theatre, they understand that despite social position (Aladdin and Jasmine), beauty or ugliness (Beauty and the Beast) or whether you come from different worlds (Peter Pan and Wendy) that love wins in the end.

Sure, in some instances the “win” may be after death, as in Carousel, when Billy Bigelow comes back to earth as a charming ghost to give his last farewell to Julie Jordan, his wife. Or it can happen at the moment of death, as with Ethiopian-princess-slave Aida and the sexy-Egyptian-hunk Radames story. In Aida, Giuseppi Verdi’s opera, the “happy end” is realized when Radames is buried alive and discovers his love is already there. Who could have thought?

Sometimes in theatre, love means having faith such as in Porgy and Bess. Porgy believes that he will find Bess against the odds. And often that hope leads to a happy ending such as in Jane Eyre.

Yes, the theatre has a lot to say about love. Particularly that love can happen when you least expect it… In She Loves Me, Georg and Amalia start out as feuding sales clerks only to discover true love as anonymous pen pals. Come see for yourself and be reminded of just how wonderful love can be. She Loves Me opens tonight and runs until this Sunday, February 19.

Cast of She Loves Me tells their "love" stories

noreply@blogger.com (Rose Theatre Brampton) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 17:09:00 +0000

We asked She Loves Me cast members to share some of their own experiences with love. Here are the results!

Laura Caswell &
Sweeney MacArthur

Have you ever sent a love letter? What was the result?

Laura Caswell (Ilona) says: When I was in grade 9, I decided to tell my friend that I liked him by writing him a friendly letter and then in miniscule letters on the bottom writing "will you go out with me?". He called me that night (Yahoo!) and said he only wanted to be friends (Boo!) But on a happy note, we are still good friends to this day.

Kellan (ensemble) says: I sent one once, but didn't put enough postage on it so it came right back to me. (Sorry about your luck Kellan - I hope you tried again!)

What's your favourite tune from the show?

Laura says: I've always loved "Tonight at Eight". I love the excitement and nervousness that is right in the music. I think we have all felt that wonderful joy/fear that the song exudes, when we're on our way to do something that we think may change our life.

Kellan says: The entrance notes when customers come in the store. LOVE THAT THEME :)

Morgan Valee says: "Vanilla Ice Cream" - It is such a cute song!... It is the first scene where you see her (Amalia) like a giddy, madly in love girl.

What is your go to perfume/cologne for seduction?

Will Lamond (ensemble) says: I like Burberry. It smells good to me and when I put it on my girlfriend gets a very fierce look in her eyes! ;)

If you could give relationship advice to Amalia and George, what would you say?

Laura: keep reading.
Jody (customer/caroler/ensemble): Stay true to your heart. (awwwww)
Will: Stock up on vanilla ice cream!

Worst Date Ever

noreply@blogger.com (Rose Theatre Brampton) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 20:18:00 +0000

Two of the cast from Second City's iLove, which takes the Rose Theatre stage on Friday, share their personal worst date stories ...

Sean Tabares

One bad date was, of course, a first date. We met and went out for Ethiopian food, but each ate so much we felt ill and called it a night.

But my worst date ever? Easy. The restaurant we were looking forward to was closed for a function, so we went to an earlier movie. Disappointing film. Then we spent the night tracking down and retrieving her towed car. Also, no kiss....

Stacey McGunnigle

My worst date would have to be from good ol' highschool. My date arrived over an hour late, smelled of cheap cologne, and insisted we listen to the loudest punk music all the way to the restaurant. Before we headed to dinner (at the ever popular Jack Astors) he explained to me that we needed to go to the Mandarin to "hang out with his buddies". I ended up spending the night sitting at a table adjacent to his friends (because there wasn't enough room for me) watching everyone else have a good time. The movie he said "I would love" was about aliens, and guns with a strong apocalyptic theme; a far cry from the love and romance I was looking for. When he dropped me off he walked me to my door and just as I thought I was about to get my first kiss he leaned in and said "Well you're home and I am going to meet the guys...bye!".

Romeo & Juliet - Behind the Scenes

noreply@blogger.com (Rose Theatre Brampton) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 20:46:00 +0000

It's such a delight to watch performers get ready for the big night. The energy and enthusaiasm is palable and the State Ballet Theatre of Russia dancers didn't disapoint last night. Their stellar production of Romeo & Juliet was well received by the audience and they're getting set to perform it again tonight at 8 pm. Check out more behind the scenes pics on our facebook page.

SAME STORY. DIFFERENT FEELINGS.

noreply@blogger.com (Rose Theatre Brampton) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 23:37:00 +0000

You know this story from start to finish. You’ve likely seen it repeated in many stories of forbidden love in cinema, theatre, books and television. But, despite knowing about the tragic finale to come, you may still find yourself joyfully cheering for Romeo and Juliet. Why? If you are talking about the State Ballet Theatre of Russia’s production, probably because of how they present this classical play.

In the article by Jon Eben Field in the February Odeum Magazine, he touches on how a beautiful work of art can inspire fresh hope in spite of the tragic story. “... this production’s dancers make us hope that somehow they will find a way to simply be together. And if their performance is great, it is because our hope aligns with the dancers’ love, if not with their destiny”, explains Jon.

The State Ballet Theatre of Russia presents tomorrow (Tuesday, February 7) and Wednesday (February 8) at the Rose Theatre, launching two full weeks of “love”-ly productions just in time for Valentine’s. The 54 ballerines, who came in December with the Nutcracker, invite you back to experience the spirit of love with them again!

Dan Hill on Boxing

noreply@blogger.com (Rose Theatre Brampton) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 23:19:00 +0000

What could possibly be the connection between a romantic musician and boxing?

In Odeum Magazine this month you'll find the answer in the story on Dan Hill (p.14).

The famous singer/songwriter of "Sometimes When We Touch" has fought for his life, but that isn't the reason for his connection to the boxing world. Dan Hill, who presents next week on the Rose Theatre Main Stage, found himself reaching out to World Welterweight Boxing Champion, Manny Pacquaio.

Writer Nick Krewen talks about this relationship and shares a few more anecdotes in his interview with Hill.

Click here to read the article and find out more about life and artistry of Dan Hill who performs at the Rose Theatre Brampton on February 9.

Candid Photos of Mavis Staples Fans

noreply@blogger.com (Rose Theatre Brampton) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 22:01:00 +0000

Last night at the Mavis Staples concert, audience members were delighted to share their reflections on the show with us. Were you there too?

AISHA CEDRONE , SHARIFA HEADLEY, AVRILLE HEADLEY

JANN FITZ-GERALD, GORDAN EDGAR

MEREDITH LAZOWSKI, K. LAZOWSKI, DR. B. LAZOWSKI

RICHLYN LORIMER, JULIET PARRIS

SUSAN GOODWIN, DIANE VINODRAI, RON STURK

February is for Lovers (of Theatre)

noreply@blogger.com (Rose Theatre Brampton) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 18:51:00 +0000

February is coming and with it the romantic holiday of Valentine’s Day. So, we checked in with Acting Theatre Manager Costin Manu for the inside scoop on what the theatre has in store for lovers this month. Good News! There’s a little something for lots of different lovers...

Let's start with ballet lovers. Romeo & Juliet performed by The State Ballet Theatre of Russia. They are old acquaintances of the Rose Theatre audience. “It's at least the fourth time they've come. The last time was the Nutcracker, in December” explains the manager. It’s easy to see why they are welcomed back as they bring that impeccable Russian style and a world of class to each performance.

“We are excited too for singer/songwriter Dan Hill. He rose to stardom during the Baby boom generation, and now, we will have the opportunity to relive the nostalgia with him”. But the main reason for Costin’s excitement is this: “It's the first time in many, many, many years that Dan Hill will be performing with a full band. In recent years, Hill has primarily appeared with solo piano. We’re looking forward to that full sound to accompany his many, memorable hits. That did it... “Sometimes When We Touch” is stuck in my head again....”

If you're a sketchy lover (grin) you’ll certainly have a lot of fun with The Second City. The troupe from Toronto will present a hilarious and interactive show about dating in the internet age. Costin says: “I love them because they take a satirical look at life. What they do is always current. What's happening in the world, in politics, in the social scene, movies and art.”

Just after the “big day” experience 30's style romanticism with She Loves Me. This Broadway musical runs for a 7 performances from Feb 15-19. It's a tender and funny story of two shop clerks who can’t stand one other during the day but discover love as anonymous pen pals. If you saw the movie with Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan, You've Got Mail you’ll know the crux of the story. “The Rose will present the original version. The same sweet story with a great cast, beautiful music, and the memorable costumes of the 30's!” adds Costin.

There is more to be seen in February, Rhythm of the Dance tours direct from Ireland and Canada’s leading company, The Shumka Dancers present a 50th Anniversary spectacular that is sure to thrill. From New York City The Improv Shakespeare Company entertain in the studio for two shows. Plus the little ones will enjoy Splash & Boots in the studio, a chance to get up close and personal with the performers (and their friendly performing dog by the way).

So you see there is a little love for everyone this month. We look forward to sharing the love with you!

AN IRRESISTIBLE INVITATION

noreply@blogger.com (Rose Theatre Brampton) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 19:43:00 +0000

“I wanted to make an album where every song had meaning,where every song told a story and would lift you up and give you a reason to get up in the morning. And I know it’s going to feel really good singing these songs on stage.”

These are the words of Mavis Staples about her last album "You Are Not Alone". A inspired song to warm a cold day. Here is your chance to feel the warmth. Tonight at 8pm, Mavis Staples takes the Rose Theatre stage. Let her "get it through to you"!

A Suspended Moment with Artist Janet Simmons Sweet

noreply@blogger.com (Rose Theatre Brampton) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:46:00 +0000

Nature has taken over the Rose Theatre Art Gallery from December to March through the beatiful paintings of Janet Simmons Sweet. Using the canvas to represent moments where light and colour provide respite to the viewer, Janet translates to the canvas a nature "full of life". We invited her to talk more about her works.

1. When/how did you begin painting?

I started painting as a teenager, and then continued sporadically through a career with a bank and raising a child. Then in 1998 I was diagnosed with cancer, which I now refer to as the best thing that ever happened to me. It woke me up to reset my entire life, to be one with a passion for living. Art. My passion. I went back to painting, eventually joining an art organization in Brampton called Beaux-Arts, and became a full-time Artist over four years ago with a Studio at the Alton Mill.

2. What is the place of your art in a world bombarded with images?

I paint the moment of light and colour where I have found calm and peace. It is my intention that the viewer in a world bombarded by other images, will find and feel that suspended moment.

3. Can we consider your work naturalist art?

I do lean toward subject matters in a natural setting (my favourite being trees in all their stages of life), where I find my most constant peaceful moment. However, that is not to say that any other subject matter with spectacular light and colour is not considered for my intention.

4. Do you think your style is an interesting way to provoke the actual status of the art? Why?

I am actually not interested in provoking anything. Artistically or, in response to your question the status of the art. I firmly believe that anything, with any kind of value at all, does not need to find success through provocation.

5. How the Bill Davis experimental educational program influenced your works?

The Bill Davis experimental educational program was designed with independent study of core subjects, allowing a student who maintained an average of 85% in any subject, to self teach. I chose to self teach all the core subjects, with the exception of the Arts. This provided me with intense instruction in all mediums of the visual arts, and expanded all the other disciplines. I was given an outstanding opportunity to learn both the technical aspects of the Arts, and an appreciation of its considerable impact, that is present in all my works today.

6. What tendencies do you find in the student’s artwork as a juror for multiple Arts Organizations?

I am thrilled to find the enthusiasm in our community for visual arts. The artwork presented in Juried Shows has been in multi-mediums and in every style imagined. The Arts grow and change, and yet remain the same with its message.

7. What does it mean to you to have your work on display at the Rose Theatre Art Gallery?

I feel the Rose Theatre is one of the proudest concepts architectually that Brampton has to offer to the community, and housing the Arts, a perfect marriage. Being given the opportunity to exhibit in this outstanding venue, joining the visual arts with the performing arts, makes my heart sing!

8. Could you give any advice to the new artists?

Believe in yourself. Don't give up. Join in with the Artist Community where you live. Live passionately through your art.

Janet Simmons Sweet
December, 7, 2011 - March 3, 2012

Rose Theatre Art Gallery - 1 Theatre Lane, Brampton, ON
Hours of Operation: Mon - Sun 12PM - 8PM
Please see Box Office staff or security on site for access to the gallery.

The Remarkable Mavis Staples On Stage This Friday

noreply@blogger.com (Rose Theatre Brampton) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:25:00 +0000

You still have time to see one of the "100 Greatest Singers Of All Time", Mavis Staples comes to the Rose this Friday, Jan 27.

Grammy Award winner for Best Americana Album for "You Are Not Alone", Staples will bring to the audience her distinctive blend of gospel and blues.

Expect to be mesmerized by Staples remarkable and smoky voice, singing songs such as the famous "I'll Take You There", theme of the 1975 Sidney Poitier movie Let's Do It Again.

In an Odeum article this month, Mavis harkens back to the early 60s and talks about how the Staples Singers supported Martin Luther King and the freedom movement. To read more click here

AGA BOOM - Not Your Regular, Everyday Wacky Group from Russia

noreply@blogger.com (Rose Theatre Brampton) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 15:00:00 +0000

The clowns of Aga Boom

By Catherine Cubitt (excerpt from Odeum Magazine, January 2012)

You might be asking yourself what Aga-Boom is all about. Truth be told, there is no one-word answer to capture the hilarity that is Aga-Boom.

If you’re looking to start the New Year with something exciting and entertaining for the whole family, then the Rose Theatre is the place to be on January 24th.

The word “Aga-Boom” itself is a humorous spin on the Russian word for paper, boomaga. (Trust me; this makes perfect sense once you experience the show’s finale.)

Find out more about Aga Boom... download the magazine here