Buffalo Rising

"America's Next Funniest" to Perform

2010-03-19T14:10:23Z

Buffalo Comedy is getting a healthy shot in the arm this Sunday when comedian Alysia Wood performs at the Ninth Ward, inside Ani DiFranco's Babeville.

Wood teams up with Kristen Becker, notorious for her Dykes of Hazard comedy tour and the Doin' Time comedy showcase, which has been running in Buffalo for the last 4 years. Wood recently beat out hundreds of other comics to earn the title of "America's Next Funniest" in Las Vegas. The finals were judged by comedy dignitaries, including Budd Friedman, who is recognized as the man who invented the concept of the comedy club when he opened the first Improv in New York in 1963. "....there could only be one 'America's Next Funniest', and that honor goes to Seattle's charming Alysia Wood," said Friedman, who is credited with launching the careers of countless comedy icons such as Adam Sandler and Sarah Silverman.

Wood is one of the bright new faces to come out of the strong Seattle comedy scene. The Louisiana native has settled in Los Angeles, quickly becoming a regular at Hollywood comedy hot spots.

Joining Wood and Becker is Buffalo native and touring professional Mark Saldana. The evening will be hosted by 103.3FM the Edge's Josh Potter, a quickly rising up-and-comer on the comedy scene.

Alysia Wood

LIVE at Ninth Ward (located inside Ani DiFranco's Babeville)

With Josh Potter, Mark Saldana and Kristen Becker

Doors @ 7, tickets $10 in advance, $12 at the door.

Buy Tickets here

Wantuch's Wasteland

2010-03-18T16:32:28Z

By: Kristen Becker

For the sake of transparency, let me tell you that I first met Brian Wantuch when I was five years old. Don't worry that I can't be impartial. I wasn't allowed to actually hang out with him until I was 24.

As kids, we lived across the street from one another. Twenty years later, after we had both moved out of state and returned to Buffalo, we ended up across the street from each other again, but this time we were kids playing grown up (and still are). Brian came up to me and said, "Hey, I know you." I tell you this because that is who Brian Wantuch is, the guy no one knows they know.

In the last twenty years, Brian has composed music for live theater (Theater of Youth, New Phoenix and Irish Classical Theatre Company) and was the owner of Wasteland Music on Elmwood Avenue (the first incarnation of which sat at the foot of Lancaster Avenue). He has taught at Buffalo Academy of Visual Performing Arts, has been a member of IATSE Local 10 for the last decade, had done countless studio and live recordings, formed the band Elevation, had a radio show, worked at Kleinhans--and that's only a portion of his accomplishments. I literally cannot list all that he has done here because it just goes on and on. Suffice to say, this guy is woven into the thread of Buffalo arts.

Most recently, Brian is the man behind Wasteland Studios, Buffalo's newest downtown art mecca. If you haven't heard of it, let me give you a rundown. A few years ago, 700 Main Street--a 50,000 square foot building--lost a large percentage of its tenants, along with its neighbor, Studio Arena Theater. Brian approached the building owner with an idea to create a communal space, a home to artists in every genre and medium. "When you walk in and hear a guy practicing, it makes you want to practice," Brian says. "The people here produce, and we feed off each other."

There are currently eleven bands renting practice/studio space at Wasteland, and the development of larger business opportunities are taking shape. Beyond Divine Machine Tattoo has opened a tattoo parlor on the first floor, offering yoga and massage; they've expanded both their services and their client base. The Vault, an art gallery that I would describe as an intersection of art, is neighbor to the tattoo shop. There is a floor for artists and a floor for photographers. The dance studio is being rented for rehearsals and a dance company is forming. There is no way to say this without sounding like a hippie, but, the energy just feels really good in this building, man.

Brian's long term vision consists of a one stop shop for the arts, able to function within itself and thereby giving birth to countless combinations of collaborations. I met eight different artists on my visit, and when we needed a picture for this article, lo and behold, Amanda Giczkowski, curator of The Vault and a brilliant photographer in her own right, happened to show up with her camera. That's how things work here.

Another part of Brian's long term vision is the creation of the executive suites. The creativity felt throughout the building will be encouraged in the offices as well. Artist in residence, Jeff Vincent, is painting a mural of sky and trees on Brian's ceiling, transforming the ceiling into a giant skylight. "It's bringing the outdoors in, and it gives a local artist the opportunity to create something like a ceiling mural, which is very difficult to do," Brian told me. While I was there, he was in the basement cutting tile into cobblestone shapes. Why? What else can you make a cobblestone hallway out of? The executive hallway is designed in the style of a European alley, lamp posts and all.

All this fun stuff is great, but can Wasteland be successful? The building's owner referred to Brian as a "visionary" and told me that Wasteland "is doing better than I expected". Together they are working with UB to incorporate green initiatives for the future.

There is so much going on in this space, it would take 4,000 words to detail every phenomenal artist who is creating here. In addition to those I've mentioned, bands such as Baby Blue Bird and Purgatory Kings have rehearsal/studio space here, photographer Cheryl Gorski is here, as well as the Arts Council and offices for IATSE Local 10.

Wasteland is a great space for professional artists. Brian is currently looking for music teachers and artists for the spaces that will be completed by the end of this month; only a couple of live music rehearsal spaces remain open. For information about joining the Wasteland community, contact them via email.

Wasteland Studios

700 Main Street

Buffalo, NY 14202

----------------

Kristen Becker is a comedian who started her comedy career in Toronto 8 years ago, and since then has traveled the continent performing and producing shows. She has opened for national acts such as Doug Stanhope, Josh Blue (Winner of Last Comic Standing), and Ani DiFranco. Additionally, Kristen beat out 60 contestants (all men) to win the 2006 Queen City Comedy Competition. Becker was recently named "One of America's Funniest Lesbians" by CURVE Magazine, in a tie for #8 with Lily Tomlin. Locally, Becker has been producing/hosting the Doin' Time Stand-Up Comedy Showcase at Nietzsche's every Tuesday in Buffalo for the last 4 years.

Photo credit: Amanda Giczkowski

Buffalo Bushido: A Real Buffalo Movie

2010-03-17T21:23:33Z

Following is an interview with Peter McGennis - Buffalo's rising film writer, director, producer and actor - discussing the upcoming release of his latest film, Buffalo Bushido.

When did you first come up with the idea for Buffalo Bushido?

It was a knee-jerk reaction to having a project in Northern Ireland hit a standstill in 2005. I had applied for funding through NIFTC - it was a co-production, but with the dollar sinking below the euro it didn't make fiscal sense. I started to look at Buffalo as the canvas for creating a Buffalo story that would pump as much spirit and vitality into the community as I had witnessed in New Orleans with my first film (In). So I proceeded to write a Buffalo story based on reflections from childhood that seemed worthy... I found reverence in the loss of my best friend David Pfalzgraf's brother Brendan... and how to honor him through narrative fiction.

Who, or what, is Buffalo Bushido?

Bushido is the code or way of the samurai. It serves as a coping strategy for the main character Davis, who is trying to come home. His perception is the lens of the story, as past, present and fantasy overlap.

Did the storyline change as the pieces began to fall together?

The storyline never wavered, but new Bushido underpinnings availed themselves through the collaborative process. This included the fantastic animation provided by Jeremy Appelbaum.

Was it shot in Buffalo, and if so, when?

It was 100% filmed in Buffalo. We filmed through 2006 and 2007.

Is it true that in one scene you walk across the outer edge of the Peace Bridge naked?

No. It was the middle traffic lane and up on the steel truss.

How did you pull that one off?

Unfortunately the wonderful man who made it possible is no longer with us.

Where did you find Jimmy 'Superfly' Snuka?

On the WWE Legends Circuit.

And Lezley Zen? What kind of a movie is this?!

I needed a bad influence who was very comfortable with nudity. It was the first day of the shoot and it was the icebreaker. She's a really good actress... she's fun, she's crazy and she knows how to act. Lezley played the bad influence to a T. People go nuts for her... I damn well was not going to be the only naked character in this film. She was there for the first day as well as the last day of the shoot. She came back for the wrap party and played naked pool at Roxy's. She stripped naked right on Main Street and walked into the bar. She proceeded to play pool naked for two hours.

Click here to see the entire cast

What was the most important thing that you learned coming from your previous movie?

To not rush. My first film was turned around in six months. I cultivated a strategy to allow time to pull back and rethink. The fact that this was a state of mind film facilitated this creative, layered approach.

Name a director that influenced you.

Elia Kazan, and of course Akira Kurosawa.

What's your favorite movie?

Midnight Cowboy

If you could pick an actor and actress to be in your ultimate movie, who would they be?

I'm trying to think of someone who hasn't had plastic surgery. The legends are dead. Where are the American male leads? There is a void... Christopher Walken back in the day, but not when he's dancing with a Gummy Bear. And then Penelope Cruz, but she'll have to pass the no-plastic-surgery-test like Lezley ;)

Do you consider yourself a full time producer/director?

No. Because I write, direct, produce and act, I am finding that Hollywood places me in the ubiquitous Indie film-maker/artist file. What matters is that I do what I say I'm going to do. My scripts get read based on confidence that I deliver with heart and soul. I've built my reputation in the business one relationship at a time. Nick Nolte is reading the script for my current movie called Queen City. I push my filmmaking forward every day in some capacity, balancing it with my responsibility as husband, parent, youth hockey coach and other business owner.

Is it unusual for a producer/ director to take a lead in a movie?

Yes. And it's usually disastrous.

How was (or is it) it to shoot in Buffalo?

It's fascinating to redefine the city through my filmmaking. When you see Buffalo Bushido, local landmarks will take on new meaning (not just the Peace Bridge). Living in a place gives you enormous insight into making it come alive as a character. I did that with New Orleans (where my mom is from) in my first film, and have now accomplished it here through photography, music, etc. There's nothing worse than hearing a dumbed-down, rehashed Buffalo joke from some Hollywood nincompoop who has never been here or claims to have been stuck on the thruway during a snowstorm. Boohoo! I think that folks will dig the symbolism from start to finish. Buffalo Bushido is really a 'coming home' piece where home never changes... it's the person.

Is our proximity to Toronto advantageous?

Big time. I used Deluxe Toronto for post-production and have gone to Raptor and Sabres games with their staff. It gives the region (with the Toronto Film Festival) clout.

Did you work with the Buffalo Film Commission?

Yes. Tim Clark has been super in supporting, coordinating and production. He understands that it is the indigenous productions that define the city's film identity and open the floodgates for future work. Buffalo Bushido shot for 27 days with all local crew vs. Keanu Reeves who was here for three and brought his crew from NYC.

Buffalo Bushido World Premiere and Red Carpet
Friday, April 30 at 8:00pm to 11:00pm
Where: Market Arcade Film & Arts Centre
639 Main St. Buffalo, NY

Advanced tickets available online through the Dipson website. Peter will be there throughout the weekend answering Q&As and talking about Queen City, which is filming now.

March is the Month for Cabaret... and All That Jazz.

2010-03-16T13:39:32Z

In cities like New York City, Los Angeles, London and Sydney, cabaret is celebrated throughout the month of March and, if Kerrykate Abel has her way, Buffalo will follow suit. Producer of the new Cabaret Series for Buffalo United Artists (BUA), Kerrykate is looking to make this storied art form a bigger part of the Queen City's rich arts and culture scene.

"I think it is exactly the kind of entertainment that Buffalo needs to continue to grow as a city," said Kerrykate. "I believe the time has certainly come for its return."

Although song is certainly a predominant feature in cabaret, the style of performance is a departure from what one would typically think of musical theater. For one, a cabaret show is shorter (usually 12-13 songs) and less expensive than a theater performance, with a significantly smaller-sized audience. But more striking is that there is no cast and there are no characters. Cabaret is typically one person telling their own personal story to an audience through a mix of dialogue, song and story-telling. The idea is for the performer to convey their story with such a deep level of honesty and vulnerability, that the ambiance in the theater and the audience's comfort level is actually driven by this performance.

"You have to have a certain level of life experience and maturity in order to relate to the audience on this kind of level," explained Kerrykate. "There is an intimacy, a sophistication, about cabaret that you simply do not find in any other genre. The seasoned performer can make the air in the room change just by the slightest movement of their hand and, when the audience/performer connection is truly superb, you find yourself hanging on every word, every note, every blink... it's a very raw, personal, soul bearing experience that cannot be 'faked.'"

Cabaret gained popularity in America just prior to World War II and reached its height in the '40s and '50s, but then started to decline in the '60s due to the rising popularity of rock concerts and television variety shows. Going to discos became all the rage in the '70s and cabaret was completely pushed out of the mainstream (the disco movement really did kill everything, didn't it?).

In its simplest and truest form, cabaret got its start in what was known as "supper clubs" - secluded joints jammed with people at small tables with ultra dim lighting, a smoke-filled haze and just the right amount of seediness. A piano player sat up front with a singer sprawled atop, spotlight on them and (if they were lucky) a microphone in hand. Michelle Pfeiffer in the Fabulous Baker Boys comes to mind. An even better visual is Moulin Rouge in Paris; that is, the spiritual birthplace of the can-can dance, not the commercialized tourist destination it is today.

Traditional American-style cabaret features songs from the Great American Songbook, which includes artists ranging from Irving Berlin and Duke Ellington to Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra. Jazz heavily influenced cabaret, which you can hear in traditional speakeasies. Today, cabaret has expanded its repertoire the way most other musical stylings have over the years and incorporates some rock in its line-up. The type of music you get from a cabaret show, of course, solely depends on the performer and what they feel most accurately represents their story.

Western New York has a long and varied musical history, which cabaret is apart of. Historical gems like the Statler and a myriad number of other local hotspots like Cyros and Harry Altman's Town Casino used to host these intimate evenings. Now, with a new theater on Chippewa Street (which celebrates its one-year anniversary this Saturday), the BUA is leading cabaret's return to Buffalo.

"We at BUA have only just begun and I hope for the series to continue to grow and prosper; to enjoy a host of different personalities and talent styles and to welcome Western New York back to this wonderful art form," said Kerrykate.

To help celebrate Cabaret Month, BUA is putting on the third show in their Cabaret Series, Chuckie and the Rack, based on the life story of one of Buffalo's most recognized and respected performers, Chuck Basil who, naturally, is also the star performer. Showcasing dynamic vocals, including three- and four-part harmonies, the BUA Theatre will host this limited engagement March 19-21 and March 26-27. All performances begin at 8 p.m., except for Sunday, March 21, which will begin at 7 p.m.

The fourth show in BUA's Cabaret Series is on the horizon for May featuring Kerrykate Abel herself telling her story through some Springsteen (when telling one's life story, utilizing The Boss seems aptly appropriate to me).

And while smoking in public places may no longer be allowed and the joints may be less seedy, every bit of the intimate ambiance of a traditional cabaret is still at the heart of each performance.

For more information on the Cabaret Series or for tickets, e-mail the Buffalo United Artists or call 716.886.9239.

Image credits: March is Cabaret Month by Stu Hamstra's Cabaret Hotline Online; Chuckie and the Rack cast by Michael Walline.

Artists & Models: Stimulus

2010-03-15T12:27:33Z

The Yard is back, and this time it's playing for keeps. Unleash stimulus: 2010's Artists and Models event scheduled to take place Saturday May 1st. This longstanding Buffalo event has captured more than the imaginations of revelers in the past... it has inspired countless others to promote the arts in large doses, sometimes pushing the envelope and always opening doors for artists seeking untapped insta-venues.

If ever there was a way to bring the masses to the doors of The Yard, then Artists and Models is the ticket. Seeing that this is such a large undertaking, it is only befitting that the event be held inside the cavernous building. In the past, The Yard has hosted primarily smaller concert series, which were held outside on the covered stage. In order to accommodate the thirty art installations, it was decided to put the Rock Harbor interior to good use. Don't miss the 'multimedia art & music megaparty' that always finds the most unusual locations to call home. Heck, in this economy we could all use a little stimulus...

Hallwalls Presents Artists & Models: Stimulus
Multimedia Art & Music Megaparty
May 1. 2010
9 pm - 2 am
Inside Rock Harbor Yard
57 Tonawanda St., Buffalo

Tickets:$15 in advance, students & members
$20 at the door
18 to enter 21 to drink beer or wine (water & soda also served)

30 Artists' Installations -
404 Error, Alice Alexandrescu, Kyle Butler & Marc Tomk, AWK, Steven Ansell & Tammy McGovern, Katrina Boemig, Michael Bosworth, David Butler, Buffalo Hackerspace, Scott Bye, Collective Collective, Jax Deluca, Aasta Deth, John Fink, Chris Hausbeck, HERO Design, Jimyn the Singing Mine, Jill Johnston-Price, Evelyn Killaby, Alison S.M. Kobayashi-Emily Gove & Jennie Suddick, Al Larsen, Marty McGee & Mick Gross-, R.J. Melnyk & Ariane FulkLorna Mills, Vincenzo Mistretta, P.J. Moskal, N.J. Parisi, Shasti O'Leary Soudant, Timothy Scaffidi, Gary Sczerbaniewicz, R.M.Vaughn, Heather Warren-Crow, Christopher Young

Live Music
Family Funktion & SitarJamz
Divi Rome Royal African Sound
Orchestra Stimuli
MC Wizzalot & Tip Top Hip Hop Orchestra
DJ Bev Beverly,
Strip Teasers (Burlesque)

Ticket Outlets:
Hallwalls -Talking Leaves Books (both Elmwood & Main St.)
Sweetness 7 Cafe (Lafayette & Grant) -Rust Belt Books (Allen St.)Room (Hertel) -Clarence Center Coffee Co. (Goodrich Rd)

www.hallwalls.org
716-854-1694

All proceeds benefit Hallwalls

Event: Artists & Models-Stimulus
What: Night of Mayhem
Start Time: Saturday, May 1 at 9:10pm
End Time: Sunday, May 2 at 2:10am
Where: 57 Tonawanda St

The Automatiste Revolution: Montreal 1941-1960

2010-03-14T14:25:36Z

On March 19, Albright-Knox Art Gallery presents, The Automatiste Revolution: Montreal 1941-1960, a landmark exhibition of works by Canada's first avant-garde art movement, the exhibition will remain n view through May 30, 2010

The exhibition is one of the most extensive to date by the Automatiste Group; it is recognized today as the most interdisciplinary and possibly the most important art movement in Canada, according to Maria Morreale, Director of Marketing at the Albright-Knox Art Gallery.

"It's exciting to see these little-known artists in the U.S. for the first time," added Associate Curator Holly E. Hughes.

This opening at the Alright-Knox Art Gallery will represent the first time this work will be seen in a broad international environment. There will also be complementary works from the Albright-Knox's Permanent Collection of the contemporaneous United States avant-garde, the Abstract Expressionists, also on view.

"The Gallery is looking forward to presenting the work of these remarkable artists, whose breakthroughs were parallel to, but entirely independent of, the simultaneous Abstract Expressionism movement in New York," said Louis Grachos, Director of the Albright-Knox Art Gallery.

The Automatistes got together under the leadership of Paul-Émile Borduas in the early 1940s. The group was inspired by stream-of-consciousness writings of the time and explored their works in a subconscious way.

The exhibition was organized and recently on view at the Varley Art Gallery of Markham, Ontario. The exhibition and publication are supported by the Varley-McKay Art Foundation and private donors.

GALLERY HOURS: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday noon to 5 pm; Friday noon to 10 pm; Closed Mondays and Independence, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Days. Admission: $12 for adults; $8 for seniors and students; free for Gallery Members and children 12 and under. On Fridays from 3 to 10 pm, Gusto at the Gallery features a variety of free programs for visitors of all ages. For additional information, visit www.albrightknox.org.

Tea & Cello Tuesday

2010-03-13T22:37:34Z

Since opening, Sweet_ness 7 has done an extraordinary job of presenting its bustling neighborhood with thoughtful and unique events. The Harmony of Tea and Cello is just such an occasion. Atsuko Nishida-Mithcell, an experienced tea instructor, will be joined by Jonathan Golove, a visiting assistant professor to UB's music department, and on Tuesday, March 16th, the two will present guests with a remarkable experience.

This moment, known as ichigo-ichie, can never be repeated and therefore must not be missed! Sweet_ness 7's warm environment and dedicated staff should make the evening a soothing and enjoyable night out.

Tuesday, March 16th 2010
7 pm

Sweet_ness 7
220 Grant Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14213
716.883.1738

"What say you to a piece of beef and mustard?"

2010-03-12T15:24:36Z

Buffalo has the great fortune of having been home to Shakespeare in Delaware Park since 1976, attracting between 40,000 and 50,000 attendees each season. Not many mid-size cities in the U.S. can boast of free, quality outdoor theatre. This summer's roster will bring us fabulous interpretations of Much Ado About Nothing and Macbeth (featuring an all-female cast). Support for the two shows offered each summer comes from generous sponsors and the annual SiDP Fabulous Feast event. This year's Feast fundraiser will be held on Saturday, March 20th at the stunning Connecticut Street Armory.

Sumptuous eats will be provided, as will beer, wine, dancing, costumed shenanigans and a live auction. The event will be hosted by none other than the fabulous Bert Gambini, 88.7 WBFO's Music Director.

RSVP for this event today! The cost is $65 for members and $75 for those who are not. Corporate tables are available.

Band of Horses... oh, and Pearl Jam

2010-03-12T01:28:25Z

I know that people are really going to be stoked when they hear that Pearl Jam is coming to town. I've never seen the band live before and I'd like to catch a performance, but for me they are an added bonus to the opening act coming to The HSBC Arena - Band of Horses. It was only moments ago that I learned that the group was even coming to Buffalo... the press release announced that Pearl Jam was hitting downtown on Monday May 10th. Then, as I gleaned the release the opening act jumped out at me.

I always thought that when I finally caught Band of Horses it would be at a more intimate venue, not The HSBC Arena. Of course I had not taken into account that they would be opening for Pearl Jam. The Indie rock band is preparing audiences with the release of its new album titled, Infinite Arms. With songs like "No One's Gonna Love You" and "The Funeral", Band of Horses has been climbing the ranks of stardom... maybe it's appropriate that they have teamed up with Pearl Jam and will be piggybacking on major production effects.

If you want to get a dose of one of their most acclaimed songs, then you might want to check out this YouTube video featuring BMX rider Danny Macaskill. The video is insane - and you'll never be able to get the images out of your head the next time you hear "The Funeral". Turn it up loud and let the video send shivers down your spine!

Sabres 3 game win streak and Hockey Hoodies!

2010-03-11T17:45:01Z

The Buffalo Sabres defeated the Dallas Stars last night in a high scoring match (5-3) and set them on their way to a decent a 3 game win streak. It's good finally see some wins after that long skid they went on. They went 5 games without scoring in the first period.

Rookie defensemen Tyler Myers tore it up with a 4-point game which is his personal best to date. Scoring the first goal only 55 seconds into the game, Myers kept up his hard work and continued to join the rush with Buffalo forwards. Vanek and Pominville each had a goal, which was good to see, and Patrick Kaleta stepped up to defend his team against heavy hitter Steve Ott of the Dallas Stars. You can check out that footage over here. Overall, the team looked pretty solid. Wednesdays win put Buffalo into 3rd place in the Eastern Conference and raised our hopes for a solid playoff run.

Perfect timing. Buffalo Rising Hockey hoodies are back on sale! Our last batch of hoodies sold out almost instantly so pick one up now if you plan on cheering your team through the playoffs.

LET'S GO SABRES!

DJ Simple: Hip-Hop Multi-Tasking Extraordinaire

2010-03-11T13:35:54Z

From disc jockey to break dancer, DJ Simple jumps back and forth from the two personas on a daily basis, and he wouldn't have it any other way.

Over nine years ago, J.R. Noble, otherwise known as DJ Simple, began scratching on turntables and becoming familiar with the hip hop scene. Growing up, he fell into it as a hobby from going out with friends and watching other DJs spin.

"Back in the day I was going to raves with friends and I was really into music," says Noble. "Just by going to (these events), it was just kind of like me being cocky. I was like 'I could do that.''

From that time on he was hooked. He bought his first turntable and started experimenting and before he knew it he was making quality music - people would get up out of their seats for every time his hand touched to record.

Noble was first introduced to playing music in high school when he played the drums in concert and in in a marching band. He also took every art class available, which inspired him to want to study something in college either art or music related, but later he realized a degree was unnecessary.

"Over the years I did enough with art and music that I didn't feel I needed to go to school to get better at what I was already doing," said Noble. "I felt like I wanted to go to school and learn something I wouldn't have otherwise learned."

After graduating from high school he delayed his college plans to join the military due to being strapped for cash. Seven years subsequent to serving he moved from his hometown Greensburg, Pennsylvania to Buffalo and got his degree in geology from the University at Buffalo.

In 2007 Noble began attending break dancing classes at Verve Dance Studio in Buffalo. As owner Shane Fry and Noble shared their hobbies, they came up with the idea to create an event incorporating Shane's knowledge of break dancing and Noble's DJing skills. Thus, Battle at Buffalo was born.

"We wanted to do something to get the scene going in Buffalo," said Noble. "Getting more b-boys (break dancers) and kids involved."

Every last Saturday of the month people from all over New York, nearby states, and even Canada gather to compete in this funk styles and b-boying battle for a cash prize. This family-oriented event welcomes all ages from the community. People have the chance to make new friends, reunite with old friends to work dance moves, and listen to quality old school funk music brought by the one and only DJ Simple.

"J.R. plays a huge role in making the battles a success and has been there since the beginning," said Fry. "It's a huge luxury having him at the school and it wouldn't be the same without him."

Not only does Noble display excellent expertise in DJing, he has delved into the world of b-boy as well. Occasionally he will step out from behind his turntable and break out onto the dance floor to show what he's accomplished through his study of break dancing.

"We have definitely helped each other grow as dancers," says Solomon Dixon, a close friend of Noble's who attends and competes in Battle at Buffalo regularly. "We've traveled to Boston, Toronto, Columbus, Chicago, and a bunch of places. I'd say we've gone through many life changing experiences together and I can honestly say he's always been there for me."

Currently Noble teaches break dancing at the Future Dance Center in Hamburg, NY owned by Gino and Denise Vaccarro - he has been there since September 2007.

"I can say that (J.R.) is very dedicated to his craft both as a teacher and dancer," said Gino Vaccarro. "His passion is abundant. He is always approaching me about new ways to relate to the kids and get his point across to them."

The age groups he teaches ranges from eight to 20. Noble says it can often be tough to get the kids to take the dancing seriously, but through different strategies he has discovered ways to keep them more focused.

"Sometimes I'll have games that we'll play or I might have little competitions, like who can do the best freeze," said Noble. "One time I paired them up and they had to come up with their own little routine. They would show it off in class and whoever had the best routine won a prize."

In addition to all of these activities, Noble DJs Wednesday nights at 4Play and Friday nights at Recckios, two clubs located in Buffalo.

"It's all about following your dreams and trying to do what you really want to do with life," said Noble. "That's what I'm trying to do right now."

Young Audiences Invites Families to Travel Around the World this Friday

2010-03-10T21:42:58Z

Young Audiences of Western New York is teaming up with the Albright-Knox Art Gallery this Friday March 12 to give families the opportunity to go Around the World with Young Audiences through interactive experiences in art, dance, and storytelling. Presented as part of the popular Gusto at the Gallery series, admission to the gallery and participation in events are free to the public.

The programs offered with Around the World on Friday include interactive workshops and performances at the Albright-Knox from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the classrooms and auditorium of the gallery. Each activity explores a different culture or group of cultures.

"Gusto events are a great way for Young Audiences to share the diversity and talent of our teaching artists with the public," said Cynnie Gaasch, Executive Director of Young Audiences WNY. "Our programs are educational and artistically excellent. Because they are most often offered in school many people don't know about all of the fantastic programs we offer. We love presenting in the family-friendly atmosphere of the Albright-Knox."

Families will make avatars or cherry blossom out of paper in Kyoko Roszmann's Origami Workshop and Sarah Hooper's Family Dance/Salsa Workshop will kick-off the night's activities in the gallery's classrooms, followed by performances in the auditorium by Lorna Czarnota and Clyde Alifiju Morgan.

At 6:30 p.m. Czarnota will present This World of Ours: Stories from Many Cultures, a dynamic performance featuring stories from China, Ireland, Africa, and the Middle East. Czarnota's performance will be immediately followed by Morgan's Afro-Brazilian Dance & Music at 7:30 p.m. Morgan's fast-paced performance features a brilliant array of dance and music reflecting the multi-cultural traditions of Brazil.

Young Audiences WNY, is one of 30 Young Audiences affiliates across the country. They present hundreds of programs, plus dozens of residencies. Their teaching artists provide schoolchildren, their educators and families, with multi-disciplinary, multi-session education through the arts. These residencies create meaningful connections between artists and young people that might otherwise not be exposed to the arts--especially arts integrated into school curricula.

Young Audiences also appeared at the Buffalo Powder Keg Festival with some of their teaching artists, and you can view a slideshow of the fun families had with Kyoko Roszmann, Cindy Hanna, Jen Russo , and Glenn Colton there, here. To learn more about Young Audiences programing, visit their website at www.yawny.org.

"Sex, Cellulite, and Large Farm Equipment: One Girl's Guide to Living and Dying"

2010-03-10T18:30:47Z

Buffalonians who are looking for irreverent, female-oriented, and empowering comedy need look no further than River Huston. The comedienne, public speaker, and award-winning poet and sex columnist will present a theatrical performance of her life, "Sex, Cellulite, and Large Farm Equipment: One Girl's Guide to Living and Dying", on Saturday, April 24, from 6pm-8pm at St. John's Grace Episcopal Church in Buffalo. Tickets cost $15 presale.

Huston has performed this routine since March 2004 when she opened at the Society Hill Playhouse in Philadelphia to critical acclaim and positive reviews. Ever since then, the Upper Black Eddy, PA native has toured everywhere from major festivals such as the Midtown International Theater Festival and the Fringe Festival to universities across the United States, with a show that is both funny and inspiring to those who see it.

"I saw her several years ago and she was funny and edgy," said Andy Kiener, the executive director of the AIDS Network of Western New York, who arranged for Huston to appear in Buffalo. "[She] talks a lot about her struggles but in a humorous way."

Some of the life experiences that Huston works into her show include running a marathon, marriage and dating, personal financial crises, getting arrested for obscenity, living with HIV and surviving other medical problems, and more. Although her subject matter is blunt and not necessarily for everyone, it is one that she has presented to audiences ranging from a crowd of 40,000 people in Japan, to small colleges and fraternity/sorority houses, to more conservative and older audiences in churches.

When asked about the subject matter of Huston's performance, Kiener stressed that would-be audience members who are easily offended by language or adult content should think twice before buying tickets. However, he said that if audiences have enough prior warning about the show's content, they will hopefully know what to expect on the day of.

Whether people love or hate Huston's show, Kiener said he hopes that the comedienne will educate people. Among other topics, her performances candidly discuss HIV, a subject that people often fear and stigmatize instead of dealing with in an honest and accepting way. This has broad implications for the Buffalo community.

"As a woman living with HIV for many years, she can share her life experiences in a different way using humor and help increase community awareness, acceptance and understanding," Kiener said.

For more information about this performance or to buy tickets, contact the AIDS Network at 716-882-7840 or by email. To learn more about River Huston, check out her website or her Facebook page.

Buffalo Rising Poll: What Content Do You Want to Read?

2010-03-10T17:31:36Z

As most of you likely noticed, we've just changed the Buffalo Rising Poll. Last week's poll asked readers whether they'd vote for Carl Paladino if he ran for Governor of New York. In a very tight race, Buffalo Rising readers registered 626 votes for Paladino and 612 votes against him - further validating the 'love him or hate him' view of Paladino.

Picking up on last week's article on our effort to modify the design and layout of BuffaloRising.com, we want to know what type of content you want to see more of on the site. Do you want to read more articles about food and restaurants, retail stores, politics, real estate or sports? Let us know in the poll (or the comments).

Music that Goes Above & Beyond

2010-03-09T20:52:10Z

Trance, a relatively (in the true meaning of the word) new genre of dance music, has increasingly become one of the most popular styles of music played in clubs. A both nationally and internationally renowned British trance band, Above & Beyond, is making their first ever appearance in Buffalo on Friday March 19th. The night kicks off when the doors open at 10 PM at PURE Nightclub, located at 75 West Chippewa Street.

Back in 1999, Paavo Siljamäki and Jono Grant collaborated to found the Anjunabeats record label. In 2000, then Warner Music Group producer Tony McGuinness worked with Siljamäki and Grant to create a remix of the song "Home" by Chakra. Shortly after, Above & Beyond was formed. McGuinness, Siljamäki and Grant pride themselves on their songwriting, as well as their function as DJ's.

According to DJ Magazine's 2009 list of the top ten DJ's, the band ranks #4. Above & Beyond's remix of Madonna's "What It Feels Like for a Girl" was used in the music video for the song. Their first album was released in 2006, but the band has been producing remixes, singles and compilations since its formation in 2000.

Above & Beyond will take the stage at 12 AM. The event is open to those 18 years and older, and is presented by Factory Nightlife, a Buffalo promotion company particularly involved with electronic dance music. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.

According to Brian Nelson from Factory Nightlife, the night will feature fire breathers and hoola hoopers, and will allow "people united through the love of music, drink and dance" to come together. DJ Angelo Petrucci, Jesse Aaron, Kyle Moody, and others will also incorporate their music throughout the night.