Cool Cleveland Plus

5.02-5.09.07
CoolCleveland+

In this week’s issue:
* Interview Kristie Van Auken, Marketing Director, Akron-Canton Airport
* Interview Rick Baytko, VP of Regional Marketing, Greater Cleveland Partnership
* Kids Superman Returns To the Omnimax
* BizTech Profile eMarketing Catalyst Brad Kleinman
* Pop Quiz The Dreadful Yawns
* Sounds Coffinberry’s God Dam Dogs
* Previews Fusionfest and Canton Opera
* Straight Outta Mansfield Ace Boogie is Dead…
* Cool Cleveland Kids podcast click here, CC podcast click here, CC Blog click here

Call it “Regionalism” if you must. In an unprecedented effort to work together as one globally competitive region, 4 million strong, marketing directors from 16 counties worked for 14 months to create a transparent, collaborative 3-pronged multi-million-dollar campaign to sell Northeast Ohio to businesses, travelers and to ourselves. The new official brand is Cleveland+ and this week, we clue you in to the inner workings with videos of GCP marketing guru Rick Batyko plus Akron-Canton Airport’s marketing chief Kristie Van Auken. Regionalism’s also in our news this week, plus we preview a Wagner opera in Canton, plus a sweet eMarketing for Entrepreneurs session, at which I’ll be moderating a session. Mansfield Frazier hips us to the sad facts of life in the inner city. So things aren’t perfect here, we just have tons more to offer than most other places. Tons plus. So call it “Collaborationism,” “Cooperationism,” I don’t even care if you call it “Survivalism.” I do know this: we’re on track with Cleveland+ to take our best shot in the global marketplace. —Thomas Mulready

Kristie Van Auken
Akron-Canton Airport

When Kristie Van Auken, marketing director for the Akron-Canton Airport, got up with her counterpart, Hopkins Airport chief of marketing Todd Payne at last week’s launch of Cleveland+, the two competitors jokingly put aside their intense competition, laid down their swords, and pledged to work together to promote the region via the new brand. With their big impact “punching-bag” advertising campaign, Akron-Canton Airport already knows the value of a good brand, and they are embracing Cleveland+. Thomas Mulready of Cool Cleveland hooked up with Kristie in the NASA hangar just before we boarded the Continental flight to hear the announcement, and they discussed how regional this branding effort is (as opposed to other more Cle-centric efforts), how marketing directors around NEO are planning to coordinate the Cleveland+ message, how Kristie is already blogging about it, and how Cool Cleveland and Akron-Canton Airport are planning a “Pack Your Bags” Cool Cleveland party for later this year, at which someone will win a comp weekend trip to somewhere A-C Airport flies. http://www.AkronCantonAirport.com

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Superman Returns at the Great Lakes Science Center OMNIMAX® Theater! The Man of Steel is back in this epic action-adventure of one of the world’s most beloved superheroes. In an attempt to protect the world he loves from destruction, Superman embarks on an epic journey that takes him from the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of outer space. Grab some popcorn, take a seat, and feel as though you are soaring right beside the superhero himself. The Great Lakes Science Center is happy to announce evening shows at 7:30PM on Fridays and Saturdays! Superman Returns opening Fri 5/4 at the Great Lakes Science Center OMNIMAX® Theater. Call 216-694-2000 or visit www.GreatScience.com.
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Rick Batyko
Cleveland+

When Rick Batyko wanted to announce the launch of Northeast Ohio’s new marketing campaign, he had an inspiration: why not do it from a Continental jet 5000 feet in the air, where our artificial regional boundaries are no longer visible. After 14 months, exhaustive national and local research, an innovative 3-way collaboration (Batyko’s Greater Cleveland Partnership, the Convention & Visitors Bureau of Greater Cleveland, and TeamNEO), and study-group meetings with up to 100 area marketing professionals from Y-town to Akron to Canton, the brand Cleveland+ was tested and finally selected, and three campaigns were launched: a national campaign to attract tourism and business visitors (“Just Add You”), an in-market campaign for local institutions to link into (“We’ve Got It All. Together”), and a national business-attraction campaign (“It All Adds Up”). Cool Cleveland’s Thomas Mulready caught the flight and spoke with Rick in the air on launch day. http://www.ClevelandPlus.com

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Kids and Teens! Score Discount Tix to the Music of the Mouse when the Cleveland Orchestra performs the “Sorcerer’s Apprentice,” a family concert, for ages 7 and up. This concert on Sat 5/5 at 11AM comes at a special price of $5 for Cool Cleveland readers (a second concert, at regular price, is at 1:30PM, tickets are $10-$28). You’ll recognize the music from the famous episode of the Disney film “Fantasia” where Mickey Mouse is the apprentice. The Enchantment Theatre Company will be on stage with incredible costumes, props and mime to accompany the musical program and don’t miss the fun, free activities beginning one hour before each concert. Call the Severance Hall Ticket Office at 216-231-1111 or go to www.clevelandorchestra.com and use promo code 3388 for $5 tickets, which are subject to seating availability.
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Superman Returns at the Omnimax

No icon in American popular culture embodies our ideals as well as Superman does… and it just so happens that creators Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, two Jewish teenagers from Cleveland, brought the Man of Steel to life back in 1933. On the cusp of Superman’s diamond jubilee, the Great Lakes Science Center is bringing the IMAX print of last year’s Superman Returns to their giant Omnimax screen. Think chivalry, honesty, patriotism, truth, justice and “the American Way” is dead? People shelled out over $425 million worldwide with opinions to the contrary.

Friends, this is an extremely well-done, family-friendly film that will have your kids cheering in the aisles. The action sequences are spectacular, this new guy Brandon Routh is like a chip off the Christopher Reeve block and (for you discerning adults), Kevin Spacey’s Lex Luthor is a whole new gripping and raw spin on the quintessential villain. Take it from one kid at heart to another: Don’t miss this limited engagement for last summer’s blockbuster. It begins today (Wednesday, May 2) and runs through Sunday, June 24. Weekend and evening shows are available; tickets can be purchased at the box office or through Ticketmaster. And hey, you could do Spider-man 3 right afterwards, for a cool Cleveland-based superhero movie weekend. Just make sure you save me a couple tickets, OK?

For more info, visit http://www.greatscience.com/visit/omnimax.php.

From Cool Cleveland Managing Editor Peter Chakerian peterATcoolcleveland.com

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You’ve Scored Big Hot hits for summertime at the Cleveland Museum of Art! Art Classes for Children and Teens. Create your own masterpieces and study the elements of line, shape, and color. Saturday Session: 5 classes, June 30 -July 28. Or Weekday Session: 10 classes, Tuesdays and Thursdays, June 26- July 26. Most classes are offered both morning 10-11:30AM and afternoon 1-2:30PM. Register now for art classes for children ages 3-17. Students classes include “Art For Parent and Child” (age 3); “Mini-Masters” (ages 4-5); “Summer Breeze” (ages 8-10); “Teen Printmaking” (ages 13-17); and many, many more for children of all ages. For info and prices call 216-707-2483 or visit www.clevelandart.org. The Cleveland Museum of Art is a Cool Cleveland Kids partner.
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Shipwreck Camp Apps for Shipwreck Camp 2007 at Case are now being accepted. This day camp, designed to engage 12-15 year old youth in science and exploration. Inspired by the work of scientist/explorer Dr. Robert Ballard, the man who found the wreckage of the Titanic, this camp experience will engage campers in field science and exploration. Register now for this super cool summer camp! Info.

Superman Returns Missed it the first go-around? Loved it and want another shot? You won’t need x-ray vision to witness the Man of Steel at the Great Lakes Science Center’s Omnimax theater, where a limited run of last summer’s blockbuster Superman Returns debuts on their giant IMAX screen! Engagement begins Wed 5/2 and runs through Sun 6/24. Weekend and evening shows available. http://www.greatscience.com/visit/omnimax.php.

University Band Concert The University of Akron’s University Band, under the direction of Kelly Zunic, wraps up its season with a concert of classical and contemporary favorites Wed 5/2 at 8PM in the School of Music’s Guzzetta Recital Hall. No-cost, open to the public. 157 University Ave., Akron. http://www.uakron.edu/music.

Honk! Ugly is a duckling whose odd, gawky looks instantly incite prejudice from his family and neighbors. Separated from the farm, Ugly must find his way home. Beck Center for the Arts’ Youth Theatre revitalization of The Ugly Duckling begins Fri 5/4 and features some incredible kids. Runs on the Mackey Main Stage until Sun 5/13. http://www.beckcenter.org.

Cinco de Mayo Migration Dike 14 Nature Preserve hosts this unique opportunity to see one of Cleveland’s hidden treasures along Lake Erie on Sat 5/5 at 7:30AM. Guided hikes and a boat tour will provide amazing vantage points normally closed to the public. Dike 14, next to Gordon State Park. Call 281-6468 or visit http://www.earthdaycoalition.org for more info.

Mather Thanks Cleveland Explore the “Steamship that Built Cleveland” as it opens for the season on Sat 5/5 starting at 10AM. By presenting valid identification, such as a driver’s license, student ID, business card or utility bill (no proof needed for elementary and secondary students), visitors will be admitted free of charge. http://www.greatscience.com.

Breakfast with the Birds Celebrate International Migratory Bird Day Sat 5/5 at 7:30AM with a delightful pancake breakfast, bird walks and a live program on birds of prey at the Nature Center at Shaker Lakes. Reservations are required, so act fast. Some no-cost events associated. 2600 S. Park Blvd. http://www.shakerlakes.org.

Sorcerer’s Apprentice With a unique blend of puppetry, masks and mime, the Enchantment Theatre Company joins The Cleveland Orchestra to feature the music of Paul Dukas’s Sorcerer’s Apprentice on Sat 5/5 at 11AM and 1:30PM. See the story literally come to life, as a lazy apprentice with a magical broom loses himself in imagination as he does his chores. Come early for a “A Tale of Two Strausses” interactive workshop, “So You Think You Can Waltz?” lessons with Viva Dance, interactive magic with “RW Magic” and “Instrument Discovery.” http://www.clevelandorchestra.com.

Stanford Hostel Pancake Breakfast The Northeast Ohio Council of Hostelling International (HI-NOC) is holding its 20th Annual Stanford Hostel Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser on Sun 5/6 beginning at 9AM. After breakfast explore the beautiful Cuyahoga Valley National Park (CVNP) trails, Ohio-Erie Canal Towpath or ride the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. Stanford Hostel is a restored 19th century farmhouse, located at 6093 Stanford Road in Peninsula, just south of the Boston Mills Ski Area. http://www.stanfordhostel.org.

Revol’s Race For Kids This 10k run and 1k walk benefits the Boys & Girls Clubs of Cleveland hits Sun 5/6 at 7:30AM at Jacobs Field. Train for the upcoming marathon by running the downtown Cleveland course, then take a victory lap inside the ballpark. Jacobs Field, Broadway & Ontario. http://www.clevekids.org.

Daily Dose of Reading™ Spring storytimes blossom on Wed 5/9 at 9:45 and 10:30AM. For ages birth-24 mos. Cleveland Clinic Beachwood, Family Health & Surgery Ctr. 26900 Cedar Rd., Beachwood. http://www.dailydoseofreading.org.

You don’t want to miss what 11-year-old Max has for you and your family this week. Listen here: http://www.coolcleveland.com/files/audio/CoolClevelandKids05.04.07.mp3. Click here to subscribe: iTunes or other.

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Cleveland Plus Adds Up to a Win/Win for the Region Last week the new brand campaign for the 16-county region was unveiled here with a unique user friendly approach for Cleveland+Akron+Canton+Youngstown plus the hundreds of cities and towns in between, covering over 6,000 square miles, with home to over four million people. Cleveland Plus is an entirely new way to look at Northeast Ohio — as one united region leveraging all of our strengths to compete for new businesses, leisure travelers, conventions and meetings. Cleveland Plus is about building on our collective legacies and assets and bridging to a new future — together. It’s a new way to let the world know that Northeast Ohio is alive and kicking and that “We’ve Got it All. Together.” In fact, check out all the good news from national press coverage at www.clevelandplus.com/gcma_media.asp.
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7 cities may join fire departments Why are the neighboring cities of Parma, Parma Hts, Brooklyn, Middleburgh Hts, Olmsted Falls, Berea and Brook Park each spending about 29% of their budgets on fire departments that may be redundant? Parma Hts mayor Martin Zanotti pens this op-ed that is a hopeful yet realistic foray into the early stages of regionalism, whereby we break down our dozens of small city borders to provide better service and save tax money with regional solutions. Read

Speaking of regionalism Wouldn’t it be nice if just once, our mainstream media dropped the single-minded cynicism and ramped up the reporting on real efforts towards regionalism (See Cool Cleveland’s coverage of David Akers and his Northeast Ohio Sourcing Office for starters). Instead, we get “A Region Uniting?”, a new series in the style of “The Quiet Crisis,” and “A Regional Divided,” which, even by their titles, indicates an inability to report on real progress towards regionalism. Let’s hope the series examines models for success, rather than re-hashing old failures. Read

AmeriTrust Tower Protest A coalition of government and fiscal responsibility advocates, environmentalists and historic preservationists are poised to gather outside the AmeriTrust Tower on Thu 5/3 at 5PM to protest the razing of the building. The 29-story tower, located at East 9th St. between Euclid and Prospect Ave., was purchased by County Commissioners last year for $21 million. Demolition, including asbestos abatement, is estimated to cost $11 million. On the surface, this appears to be $32 million of taxpayer expense to create an empty (parking?) lot. Should it be saved? Should the building be renovated? What should go in its place? Maybe urban green space? Read more about Thursday’s protest here, show up there if you’re passionate about it and write to us with your thoughts on the use of the space, the political angling and/or the event itself at letters@coolcleveland.com.

Net Broadcasting in Peril The Copyright Royalty Board (CRB) recently denied webcasters’ requests for a rehearing on its ruling of unfairly high new royalty rates, which range from a 300-1200% increase for Internet radio operators between 2006-2010. Legislation is on the way, but that shouldn’t stop you from making your voice heard on the subject. Shout

SPACES accepting apps for 2007/08 exhibition Seeking visual artists in all media — including video, installation, traditional media, web art — as well as proposals for curated exhibitions. In addition, artists, including students, are eligible for the SPACELab program, which focuses on smaller, more experimental, timely exhibitions or installations. All selected artists and curators are paid honoraria. Deadline Fri 5/11. For apps, go to http://www.spacesgallery.org or email info@spacesgallery.org.

U of Akron offers no-cost legal music downloads, partnering w/ online music provider Ruckus Network for students’ unlimited download access, just as things get dicey a little south of us at Ohio U. Info

Tri-C Jazz Studies Student Earns Full Ride Aaron Kleinstub follows in fellow NEO trumpeter Dominick Farinacci’s footsteps — to Julliard! More

Cool Cleveland Podcast You know how to do it. Click here to listen: Link. iTunes or other.
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Tantalizing Alternatives Packaged for Success: A new accelerated degree program in Organizational Leadership is perfect for busy adults struggling to balance the demands of advancing a career, raising a family and contributing to their community. This bachelor’s degree program can be completed in three years and is located at B-W East, in Beachwood. Designed specifically for adult learners, the organizational leadership program builds on acquired life experiences. Coursework in the major includes one or two classes at a time, evenings and weekends, and will range from leadership, team building, business ethics and diversity to finance, research methods and legal and global perspectives of organizations. Students will travel with their class to another country, learn digital photography, and study world environmental issues. For more information contact 216-595-0316 www.bw.edu/bweast.
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Every week, all of us here at Cool Cleveland pour through gads of fantastic things happening in CLE and NEO, all in an effort to answer that ever-nagging question: “What’s cool to do this week?” Submitted for your approval, here’s a snapshot of what we found. Got a unique event coming up? Know of something that is a totally Cool Cleveland worthy event? We want to hear from you about it; our tens of thousands of readers do, too. Be a civic and cultural activist and turn on your fellow readers.

Send your cool events to: Events@CoolCleveland.com

Elizabeth Camus directs the Cleveland Institute of Music Woodwind Ensembles Wed 5/2 at 8PM at Kulas Hall. This no-cost, open to the public event offers a glimpse into Camus’ talents; she is a member of the CIM oboe faculty and has been second oboist with The Cleveland Orchestra since 1979. http://www.cim.edu.

HOT Fashion Week Cleveland is a showcase of emerging fashion designers and locally owned boutiques that begins Wed 5/2 and features four trademark shows: “Ultra Moda – The Latino Fashion Show,” “unclothed – A Mixed Media Runway Show,” “Celebrity Style Cleveland,” and the “Cleveland Fashion Show.” Experience the work of designers and boutiques and aid in the economic development of the city’s fashion and design communities. Complete schedule at http://www.fashionweekcleveland.com.

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Go, Diego, Go Live – The Great Jaguar Rescue! Kids – join Diego, Nick Jr.’s action adventure hero, as he sets out in his brand new live show. Diego, along with his sister Alicia, and cousin, Dora are off on an action packed adventure to get Baby Jaguar’s growl back! They’ll need the audience’s help to rescue animals, get through the rain forest and get to the Animal Carnivale. To the rescue my friends! Coming to the Allen Theatre for 7 performances only on Fri 5/4 – Sun 5/6. Tickets $15-$39. Call 216.241.6000 today or visit www.PlayhouseSquare.org. Go, Diego, Go Live! is a part of the Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital Family Series at Playhouse Square.
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Our Town Experience Thornton Wilder’s epiphanies as you have never seen them before at Cleveland Public Theatre on Thu 5/3 at 8PM. Our own Linda Eisenstein says: “A haunting memory play of a man for his beautiful dead wife, many years lost… it gets better and better until it breaks your heart.” Runs through Sat 5/12. CPT, 6415 Detroit Rd. http://www.cptonline.org.

Carnegie Mellon University Philharmonic performs under the direction of Juan Pablo Izquierdo, at Severance Hall this Thu 5/3 at 7:30PM. They’ll present an entire program of works from Paul Hindemith, including Symphonic Metamorphosis on Themes of Carl Maria von Weber, Kammermusiken Number 1, Five Dances from Der Daemon, and Symphony Mathis der Maler. The concert will be preceded with a pre-concert talk by the School of Music’s Paul Johnston at 7:00 pm. http://www.cmu.edu/cfa.

HOT MOCA Mix Enjoy the spectacular Cleveland Contemporary as they return to MOCA as a part of the Cleveland Play House’s FusionFest! on Thu 5/3 at 7PM. New program features the full CCDT company, choreographed by founder Michael Medcalf in his swan song for the troupe. MOCA Cleveland, 8501 Carnegie. http://www.mocacleveland.org.

Music Modern & Moving is a demonstration of the Cleveland Institute of Music’s musical, educational and technological expertise. Check out how CIM is using state of the art videoconferencing technology when they collaborate with Ideastream for this program on Thu 5/3 at 1PM. It will open your eyes to the future possibilities for the technology and help attendees see how CIM conducts some 500 programs each year via high speed videoconferenceing to schools across the nation. The Ideacenter at Playhouse Square. http://www.cim.edu.

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You’ve Listened to the Music for Years Now on WVIZ/PBS tonight, Wed 5/2 at 9PM, see American Masters “Atlantic Records: The House that Ahmet Built,” the story of how Ahmet Ertegun and his small Atlantic Records label determined the course of popular music for decades. Then, on Tue 5/8 at 7:30PM, don’t miss an encore of Monet in Normandy. Monet’s biography is woven with stunning visuals of his work. Also on WVIZ/PBS, veteran journalist Bill Moyers returns with his weekly public affairs series, Bill Moyers Journal. Airing Fridays at 10PM, this landmark series, reinvented for the 21st century, features interviews and analysis of underreported stories across an array of beats, including environment, media, politics, the economy, arts and culture. Visit www.wviz.org for additional information and the complete program schedule.
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A Pet Adoptathon If you’re thinking of getting dog, you need to stop by the Cuyahoga County Animal Shelter on Fri 5/4 and Sat 5/5 for the Shelter’s Noon-9PM event. Everyone adopting a dog or puppy will receive a souvenir photo of their new best friend on adoption day. The shelter is also hosting a raffle of fabulous gift baskets to help raise money to care for sick and injured dogs. Give the neediest dogs a second chance at a happy life. Cuyahoga County Animal Shelter, 9500 Sweet Valley Dr., Valley View. Call 525-7877 for info.

Voyage of Discovery This Zygote Press installation features the work of Andrea Joki & Udo Haufe with an Opening Reception Fri 5/4 at 6PM. Joki began a collaborative process with Haufe in 2003 following her participation in the artist exchange program in Dresden, Germany sponsored by Zygote Press and the Ohio Arts Council. Haufe and Joki have developed a series of relief prints that were mailed back and forth between Dresden and Cleveland numerous times over three years. Check them out at Zygote Press, 1410 E. 30th St. http://www.zygotepress.com.

Up to Now Seekers of truth, enlightenment and allurement at the edge of spring will delight in the opening of Daniel Rothenfeld’s recent painting and sculpture exhibition on Fri 5/4 beginning at 6PM with an Opening Reception. This rare opportunity to view a range of work from a long-time Cle artist comes with wine and cheese, which you can enjoy as you marvel at his innovative use of materials and media. Arts Collinwood Gallery, 15605 Waterloo Rd. http://www.artscollinwood.org.

Natural Flats Sunset Hike Explore the intrigue in your own backyard with artist Don Harvey on Fri 5/4 at 7PM. See the emerging wilderness in the heart of the city. Part of the Shrinking Cities exhibition. See http://www.cudc.kent.edu/shrink for more details.

Cleveland Fusion women’s football has their home opener this Sat 5/5 at Bedford’s Bearcat Stadium, going head-to-head against the Michigan Mayhem. http://ClevelandFusion.homestead.com

Brian Jones Atmosphere Gallery presents the Cleveland native artist’s exploration of color with an engaging exhibition; celebrate its arrival with an Opening Reception on Fri 5/4 at 6PM. 2379 Professor Ave. Call 685-9527 for details.

HOT Urinetown Despite the strange title, Urinetown, The Musical is a show that truly has it all – greed, corruption, love and revolution in a time when water is worth its very weight in gold. The show runs from Fri 5/4 at 7:30PM until Sun 5/20. Visit www.NearWestTheatre.org for dates and ticket availability or call 961-6391 to reserve seats. Patrick’s Club Building, 3606 Bridge Avenue.

A Evening in the Amazon This 11th Annual Media & Lifestyle Auction drops Fri 5/4 at 6PM at the RainForest in the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. The event proceeds will go to deserving college students in the form of scholarships. http://www.aafcleveland.com.

Rhapsody in Cool is Progressive Arts Alliance’s effort to raise money for scholarships for their Hip-Hop Summer Arts Camp, which uses breakdancing, rapping and turntablism to teach basic reading and writing skills, this Fri 5/4 at Lava Lounge http://www.PAAlive.org

Jawbone Long-standing open poetry festival features Maj Ragain and other Standing Rock poets on Fri 5/4 at 8PM and Sat 5/5 at 11AM. Come on down for some delicious “organic yumminess,” including the venerable Jawbone pie tasting. Ragain, a Kent State University poetry professor, continues to be a creative driving force in the NEO poetry community. Standing Rock’s N. Water St. Gallery, Kent. http://www.standingrock.net.

HOT Vanity Crash Need a blast of glam rock from the heyday of Bowie and T-Rex? Rock out to Vanity Crash Fri 5/4 at 8:30PM sharp at The Hi-Fi Club in Lakewood. It’s been almost a six months since anyone has seen them on a stage; preview new tunes from their upcoming double length CD. 18 and over only. Hi-Fi Concert Club, 11729 Detroit Ave., Lakewood. http://www.vanitycrash.com.

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WCLVnotes Jean Shepherd is best known here in Cleveland as the author of “The Christmas Story,” which was filmed partially here in town and plays on virtually every cable channel during the holidays. And it, of course, is now a jingle bell staple at The Cleveland Play House. However, Jean Shepherd’s legacy is probably his brilliant radio programs in the 60s and 70s. WCLV 104.9 makes it possible for you to hear a portion of the Shepherd show “Yanked in to the World” on this week’s Weekend Radio with Robert Conrad, Sat 5/05 at 10PM. Conrad also samples a new CD release of “Word Jazz” by Ken Nordine. You will recognize his voice, which has played on radio and television commercials for four decades. Complete details on all of WCLV’s unique programming can be found at www.wclv.com.
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HOT Art Extravaganza! The 13th Annual Silent Art Auction and Curated Art Sale at Cleveland Public Theatre will indulge your passion for art! Features a Martini Preview Party and more on Sat 5/5 at 7PM. Featured artists include Derek Hess, George Kocar, Patricia Kucan, Scott Radke, Bridget Ginley, the late Masumi Hayashi, and many others. A wide variety of works will be available, including paintings, photographs, prints, sculpture, ceramics, glasswork and jewelry. http://www.cptonline.org.

Not On Our Watch Cuyahoga County Public Library welcomes actor Don Cheadle & ICG senior adviser John Prendergast for a speaking engagement on Sat5/5 at 7PM at the State Theatre in Playhouse Square. Cheadle (star of Hotel Rwanda and Crash) and Prendergast (International Crisis Group), discuss the ongoing genocide in Darfur and mounting humanitarian crises throughout the world and their upcoming collaborative book, Not on Our Watch: The Mission to End Genocide in Darfur and Beyond. A no-cost, ticketed event. http://www.cuyahogalibrary.org. http://www.facinghistory.org/allstate.

Ashley Brooke Toussant and Friends The Kent singer/songwriter is moving to Chicago in 2 weeks, so check her out Sat 5/5 along with Kent troubadour Chittlin, Cle musician Marie Corbo, and the mixed media art of Traci Morrison and ink drawings of Thom Rossino. Bela Dubby, 13321 Madison, Lakewood. http://www.myspace.com/beladubby.

Unclothed A Mixed-Media Runway Event is always one of the highlights of Cleveland Fashion Week, with wearable art in the form of an avant-garde parade, all to the soundtrack of DJ Santina, this Sat 5/5 at 8PM at The Galleria www.FashionWeekCleveland.com

Torque’s Full Throttle Improv Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with this preview show at Bassa Vita Lounge on Sat 5/5 at 8PM. Torque is an improvisational comedy troupe with a large, revolving ensemble that changes from show to show and offers a mixture of all comedic disciplines. Bassa Vita, in the basement of Bottom’s Up lounge, Lakewood. http://www.clevelandimprovinstitute.com.

HOT Spring Fever Eco Run Join Hermes Cleveland and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park Association (CVNPA) for their 3rd Annual event Sat 5/5 at 9AM at Boston Mills Ski Resort, Boston Hts. A 5-mile run and 1-mile fun run/walk features info on environmental sustainability and sound eco-practices including recycling. And to canine lovers: leashed dogs are welcome to participate in the 1-mile event. Register.

HOT MotherArtist True Art gallery presents the 3rd annual MotherArtist art exhibit with an opening reception on Sat 5/5 beginning at 7PM. This year’s exhibit features over 22 moms who are also artists; their work comprises A Mother’s Work 2007: Connections. Reception features a silent auction fundraiser with art work donated by the artists and friends of the organization. 100% of the proceeds will go to the Domestic Violence Center of Cleveland. Exhibit runs through Fri 6/1. Call 383-0230 for more info. True Art, 410 East 156th St., Collinwood.

The Iron Wall The Northeast Ohio Antiwar Coalition (NOAC) sponsors a showing of the film The Iron Wall on Sat 5/5 at 7PM. The film deals with the many questions surrounding the relationship between Israel and Palestine; a discussion will follow. Screening takes place at C-Space, 4323 Clark Avenue. For more info, call 736-4716.

Northside Arts Art Walk take place in the Northside Arts District of Akron the first Saturday of every month. Dig a variety locations and experiences Sat 5/5 beginning at 5PM — ranging from fine art exhibits, glassblowing and pottery demos, to boutiques and unique shops, live music, fine dining and spirits. Call 330-253-5888 for more info.

HOT Asphalt Gardening 101 Check out this hands-on learning workshop Sat 5/5 from 10AM-2PM in the Garden located between E.53rd and E.55th Streets, south of St. Clair (next to Goodrich-Gannett neighborhood center. The latest craze? Urban agriculture. Learn how to turn turning parking lots and empty blacktop into thriving gardens and greenspaces. Help build an asphalt Market Garden with Wonder City Farms, run by sisters Emmy and Jessica Levine and experience their story. The more hands, the merrier. Bring garden tools and a something to share in a potluck lunch! For more info, call 334-7478.

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Experience the Engaging and Captivating Work of the Next Generation of artists and designers from The Cleveland Institute of Art. Graduating seniors will present their compelling Bachelor of Fine Arts thesis exhibition Mon 5/7 – Sat 5/12 as culmination of their experience at the Institute. The Joseph McCullough Center will burst to life with dynamic and cutting-edge work in all media including performance and installation art that is sure to be provocative and exciting. A no-charge reception that is open to the public will be held Fri 5/11 from 6PM – 11PM in the McCullough Center located at 11610 Euclid Ave. An outstanding selection of work by honored American photographer Ansel Adams will be on display at the Reinberger Galleries Sun 5/20 – Sun 8/19. The exhibition is a co-presentation with the Cleveland Museum of Art and features over 100 images selected by the photographer to showcase his greatest achievements. Visit www.cia.edu for special gallery hours.
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Cleveland Women’s Orchestra presents its 72nd Anniversary Concert at Severance Hall Sun 5/6 at 3:30PM at Severance Hall. Founded in 1936, this is the longest continuously performing women’s orchestra in the country. This concert celebrates CWO’s tradition and acts as a fundraiser to support the group’s many free community concerts. Program includes the Overture from the Merry Wives of Windsor and works by Gounod, Moussorgsky, and Sibelius. http://www.clevelandwomensorchestra.org.

HOT Ohio Natural Landscapes Holden Arboretum serves as the only NEO stop for the Ohio Natural Landscapes photography exhibit, which features the works of six Ohio nature photographers beginning Sun 5/6 at 9AM. Photographers featured in the exhibit include Art Weber, Ian Adams, David Fitzsimmons, Steve Maslowski, Jim Roetzel and Randall Scheiber; works include wildlife and birds to sprawling landscapes and native flowers. The collection remains on display through Fri 7/1. http://www.fitzsimmonsphotography.com/dfp_nature_onl.htm. http://www.holdenarb.org.

A Scottish Air Celebrate the “Songs of Caledonia” with Scottish born mezzo-soprano, Carol Leslie on Sun 5/6 at 2:30PM. Features the performance of old and new Scottish music, bagpipe performances, Scottish shortbread and tea, tartan and other Scottish wares! Hosted by the CMSS and Scottish American Society. No-cost. Part of A Little Traveling Music International Music Series. The Cleveland Music School Settlement, Glick Recital Hall, 11125 Magnolia Dr. http://www.thecmss.org.

Hymns, Folk Songs, and Spirituals II The West Shore Chorale presents its spring concert at The Magnificat Center for the Performing Arts, 20770 Hilliard Blvd. in Rocky River, on Sun 5/6 at 7:30PM. This second edition of the popular program features a rich selection of smaller works — from sublime folk songs to foot-stomping rhythmic spirituals — and true American favorites. Joining the Chorale will be special guest Mary Beth Ions playing fiddle. For more info, email bach2schol@hotmail.com.

The Rat Pack: Live From the Sands After 4 years on London’s West End, this sharp Vegas kitschtacular swings into Cle on Mon 5/7 – Sun 5/20. Celebrate w/ Ol’ Blue Eyes, Dino and the Candy Man — three hepcats cracking wise between classics like ‘I’ve Got You Under My Skin’, ‘That’s Amore’, ‘Mr. Bojangles’ and ‘The Lady Is A Tramp’. Ring-a-ding-ding! Palace Theatre, Playhouse Square. http://www.playhousesquare.com.

HOT Croooked River Groovin’ Six new e-recordings are released simultaneously by Tri-C’s Crooked River Groove Records (CRG) label, including the work of NEO artists Carlos Jones, XeLa, Zach, Phatty Banks, Cami & Cora, and E&J’s Ghetto Wisdom. This first round of “download-only e-releases” from the label’s Live @ the WiFi Café concert series is celebrated with a CRG release party Mon 5/7 at the B-Side Lounge, 2785 Euclid Heights Blvd., The fun kicks off with live performances at 8PM; all six artists will perform songs from these Live from the WiFi Café recordings. http://www.crookedrivergroove.com

HOT Building for the Future The Cleveland Museum of Art (CMA) invites the public to take a closer look at its comprehensive renovation and expansion project with the opening of this no-cost exhibition Tue 5/8 beginning at 10AM. On view during regular museum hours, this presentation presents the 21st century vision for the CMA in a step-by-step timeline and visual preview curated by CMA President/CEO Timothy Rub. http://www.clevelandart.org.

Brandi Carlile Hot off of tours with Jamie Cullum and Shawn Colvin, this torchy powerhouse singer-songwriter from Seattle ups the ante with her second effort, The Story. Like k.d. lang, Melissa Etheridge, Patsy Cline and Jeff Buckley rolled into one, this gal can belt ’em out and is set up for an auspicious career. House of Blues Cambridge Room, 308 Euclid. Info. http://www.brandicarlile.com.

Adventures in Active Dreaming Join dream teacher Brett Joseph in learning the basics of lightning dream work, dream tracking and dream re-entry on Tue 5/8 at 7:30PM. These skills allow us to unleash the energy, magic, self-guidance and healing power of our dreams and allow each of us to remember our soul’s purpose. The Nature Center at Shaker Lakes, 2600 South Park Blvd, Shaker Hts. http://www.shadybrook.org.

Susan Vreeland The best-selling author returns with a vivid exploration of one of the most beloved paintings in history: Renoir’s Luncheon of the Boating on Wed 5/9 at 7PM. Part of Joseph-Beth Booksellers’ Book Lovers Night. She’ll discuss and sign the new book at JB’s Legacy Village location. http://www.josephbeth.com.

Send your cool events to: Events@CoolCleveland.com

A wild and wonderful array of hot tech and business news & events from around Cleveland and around the region. Send your business news and events to: EVENTS@CoolCleveland.com

Ohio & 11 states collaborate to develop bio-based technologies like biofuels, bio-refineries Read & Comment
MAGNET offers joint membership to offer training & networking to thousands of small manufacturers Info

Cleveland is a blank slate Don’t be mislead by the major media. The research conducted by the Cleveland+ marketing pros shows that the national perception of “Cleveland” is 61% neutral, plus another 21% positive. Others would have you believe that the world thinks negatively of us, when actually, we’re a blank slate. Read & Comment

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Can’t My Kids Sleep in and Accomplish Nothing This Summer? Kids (grades 2-8) who attend camp at Children’s Technology Workshop want to get there and learn! Because at CTW, kids get to make real projects: computer games, video animations, Lego® Robots and more! Project themes include: History, Mission to Mars, F1 Car Racing, Fashion Design and more! We’re open Wednesdays 3:30 – 6 and Saturdays from 10 – 3, with workshops starting every hour. Camps and workshops are filling up – in Chagrin Falls (38 River Street, 44022), University Circle or your place. Call Karen at 440.484.2222 to learn more – or visit www.ctworkshop.com/glc. Children’s Technology Workshop is a portfolio company of the Beta Strategy Group, LTD, www.betagroup.us a founding sponsor of Cool Cleveland Tech.
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Proven Solutions to IT Disaster Recovery is subject of BlueBridge seminar Wed 5/2 at 8AM. Info
Midtown Brews w/ Holly Harlan of Entrepreneurs for Sustainability (E4S) and Meet The Bloggers Thu 5/3. Learn why entrepreneurs and sustainability work well together. Info
Cle Chapter of Nat’l Society of Hispanic MBAs (NSHMBA) hosts 2007 Kick Off event Thu 5/3 at 6PM at Holiday Inn on Lakeshore Dr. in Cle. Info
HRCC Biz Expo Hits Thu 5/3 at 3PM Executive Caterers at Landerhaven. TONS of info, features, networking. More
eMarketing For Entrepreneurs @ Corp Coll East on Fri 5/4 at 8AM. All-day seminar feat. John Jantsch, “the World’s Most Practical Small Business Expert.” Info
CAAO Exec Auction feat. Dan Gilbert Chairman and Founder of Quicken Loans hosts Fri 5/4 at 6PM at office on 5th Floor, MK Ferguson Bldg., 1500 W. 3rd St. Register
Eric Fingerhut chancellor of the Ohio Board of Regents talk about his experience and impressions of the higher ed system @ City Club Fri 5/4 at noon. Info
Civic Innovation Lab champions breakfast celebrates Cle entrepreneurs Wed 5/9 at Trinity Commons, 2230 Euclid Avenue. Send email with “Register” in the subject line to info@civicinnovationlab.org
Morning Buzz Networking and economic dev breakfast in Akron Wed 5/9 at 8AM. Info
Parlez-vous Francais? NEO Chapter of French-American Chamber of Commerce will presents Bridging the Gap seminar on traveling to France on business Thu 5/10 at Corporate College East, 4400 Richmond Rd., Warrensville Hts. Info
TechNote 2.0 at Ante Up Studio offers up tech community collab on Thu 5/10 at 6PM. Info
Women of Note luncheon spotlights NEO’s rising female business leaders on Wed 6/6 at 11:30AM. RSVP by 5/31. Register

eMarketing Catalyst Brad Kleinman

Attracted almost instantly to entrepreneurship Brad Kleinman targeted small business owners with his first Web Design company that he started while still in school. He also helped kick off Entrepreneurs of the Cuyahoga, a year-round collegiate entrepreneurship program for non-traditional business students at Tri-C’s Corporate College (http://www.corporatecollege.com). His business acumen and outgoing personality quickly garnered him Associate Directorship at the institution. Cool Cleveland caught up with Kleinman recently, who spoke eagerly about the ground breaking eMarketing for Entrepreneurs event convening at Corporate College East this Friday, May 4.

Cool Cleveland: Can you give the Cool Cleveland audience a preview of the eMarketing for Entrepreneurs Conference?

Brad Kleinman: It’s an exciting event that we’re proud to present. We have a national Keynote speaker, John Jantsch. He’s an award-winning blogger, veteran Market coach and author of Duct tape Marketing-The World’s Most Practical Small Business Marketing Guide . Besides presenting, Jantsch will conduct two breakout sessions in our computer lab.

We’ll also feature some of the biggest names in eMarketing in Cleveland . They’ll be speaking, participating on panels, doing podcasts or interviewing attendees about their businesses throughout the day. George Nemeth and Thomas Mulready of Cool Cleveland and Dan Hanson from Inside Business are two of the well-known eMarketing leaders who’ll be present…
Read the interview by Tim Zaun here

Links to interesting NEO blogs

This Plus thing is spinning off other ideas as well.
This particular twenty-something would write off any region that .
This blogger thinks the tagline “sounds conspicuously like a tacky American Greetings card.
This video is illustrative of what the region has to offer.
This group of organizations “behind a unified campaign that message should start reaching an even larger crowd.”

Check the Cool Cleveland weblog here, where Peter Chakerian the news of the week in the Cool Cleveland e-blast. When you’re through, add your own comments, questions and attitude. Letters@CoolCleveland.com.

The Dreadful Yawns

Over the course of my interview with Cleveland’s The Dreadful Yawns I had used the phrase “The Dreadful Yawns Now” in order to distinguish the 2007 version of the band from the one that released a self-titled disc on Bomp! Records in 2005. Immediately, guitarist/vocalist and Ben Gmetro, and one time manager, now guitarist Eric Schulte remarked how that would be a great title for their next album.

It would be a simple, yet effective way to convey just how much change the band had undergone. First, the founder of Bomp!, Greg Shaw (who was responsible for signing The Dreadful Yawns), passed away before the previous album came out, putting the band in the rather awkward situation of being the last release on a legendary independent label. Then, while recording a follow up, all of the band members went their separate ways, leaving Gmetro the task of finishing an album and re-assembling a band. In spite of this turmoil, Gmetro and his new bandmates (Schulte, Elizabeth Kelly on vocals, keys, bells, & tambourine, Chris Russo on drums/vocals, and Clayton Heuer on keys/violin) are decidedly optimistic on what the future holds for The Yawns. Our conversation makes up the latest installment of the Cool Cleveland Pop Quiz…
The Pop Quiz is administered by Bill Lipold here

God Dam Dogs
Coffinberry
Collectible Escalators

God Dam Dogs, Coffinberry’s latest long player, still has a good deal of that New York city cool that oozed from 2005’s From Now On Now and earned them comparisons to The Strokes and The Walkmen. However, this time around, that vibe from their earlier work is mixed with Seattle sonic sludge to create a fuller, heavier sound. Its dirty, gritty, fuzz fueled melodies are nearly (dare I say) grungy. I’m reluctant to use the G word (grunge) as it’s gotten such a bad rap from the third generation grunge bands still alive on the airwaves. Yet, as 2007 will see a reunion album from Dinosaur Jr., a band who was lumped into that movement, maybe it’s time to release the G word from its Rock ‘N’ Roll prison cell. Really, how am I going to convey the sound of the skinny tie rockers of the modern age meeting with the flannels and docs of Nineties, if I don’t toss in the word “grunge.” And why should NME and its “New Rave” writers have all the fun. I’d can use grunge in combination with garage to create a whole new genre. I could call this new sound something like garunge, one word to perfectly capture the sound of Coffinberry.

All joking aside (and I was joking about calling Coffinberry a garunge band), these Cleveland boys have gone out and made one of the finest guitar rock albums to come out of Northeast, Ohio in some time — right up there with Rubber Factory by The Black Keys and Easy Listening by Cobra Verde…
Read the review by Bill Lipold here

Wanna get reviewed? Send your band’s CD (less than 1 year old) to: Cool Cleveland, 14837 Detroit Avenue, #105, Lakewood, OH 44107

Hey Writers! Wanna write about Cleveland music? We’ve got a slew of recently-released CDs and DVDs by Cleveland-area musicians that could use your critical commentary for Cool Cleveland Sounds. If you’re interested, send us a note at Letters@CoolCleveland.com.

FusionFest 2007

Last year in celebration of its 90th Anniversary Season, Cleveland Play House Artistic Director Michael Bloom announced FusionFest – an annual performing arts festival of new works created by Cleveland artists and organizations. And pound for creative pound, FusionFest proved to be about as cool an exposition of such wares as they come, showcasing the ever-present answer to the question, “Who’s next?”

Dubbed “one of the most ambitious new work events in the country,” FusionFest returns this year for another round, focusing on multidisciplinary performing arts and offering stunning and revelatory works through Dobama Theatre, Karamu Theatre, Verb Ballets, Cleveland School of the Arts and the Jewish Community Center. The Fest returns to the CPH beginning today (Wednesday, May 2) and will run through the following weekend. Though never committed to by sloganeering, FusionFest’s theme is certainly geared to full-blown artistic exploration and its schedule proves it.

Highlights? Where to begin? At the CPH, John Strand’s Lincolnesque offers the view of a U.S. Congressman’s speechwriter, who takes some work advice from a mildly delusional brother who thinks he’s Honest Abe; in Trumbo: Red, White and Blacklisted the screenwriter’s McCarthy era embattlement comes to life through film/TV actor Robert Vaughn. And then there’s Daniel Beaty, who delivers his one-man act Emergence-See! which features slam poetry, multi-character transformation and song from in front of the Statue of Liberty.

Elsewhere, Dobama Theatre world premiere’s Lunacy about a 29-year-old rising star in American theatre that is offered an opportunity to meet the perfect King Lear – her dad. Verb Ballets offers up a surrealistic program called Dreamweaver, featuring a Hernando Cortez world premiere and a piece originally commissioned for the American Ballet Theatre. And Karamu House delivers the Mothership with The Funkentine Rapture – a beat-blending musical journey back to the 1970s, complete with the platform shoes, “sky-high afros” and a funkafied battle between good and evil.

Hot enough for you? Quite literally, that’s only the beginning. Next Stage at FusionFest presents readings under consideration for future CPH productions; Iona Morris (of Cuttin’ Up fame) delivers a solo work; the Jewish Community Center presents Lisa Beth Allen’s award-winning piece, Solomon’s Blade; and the Club Cabaret features Cleveland-native jazz trumpeter and Julliard grad Dominick Farinacci, the Great Brit singer/songwriter and actress Helen Welch and the revered Sammy DeLeon Y Su Orquesta, who’ll kick up their heels (and yours) for some tasty jazz/salsa fusion.

In all, it’s definitely worth your while, Cleveland. Check it out. Learn more about FusionFest calendar of events and ticketing information by visiting http://www.clevelandplayhouse.com/eventsandtickets/fusionfest.htm.

From Cool Cleveland Managing Editor Peter Chakerian peterATcoolcleveland.com

Wagner? Opera? Canton?

If the question is, “why Canton?” the only appropriate answer is ‘why not Canton?’ especially for opera lovers from around the world. On May 11-13, devotées will converge on Canton for the third International Wagner Symposium, held this year at the Stark County campus of Kent State University. There will be a mixture of music and lecture demonstrations about the music and operas of Wagner and a bit about his father-in-law, Franz Liszt. Speakers this year include Jeffrey Buller, an English-speaking lecturer at Bayreuth, currently on the faculty of Florida Atlantic University. On Saturday, Laurie Lashbrook of Akron University will lecture on the Wagner/Liszt relationships and then present a recital on Sunday of Lieder by Wagner, Liszt and Schubert.

Architectural theorist Harry Mallgrave Illinois Institute of Technology will speak about German architect Gottfried Semper and his influence on Wagner. Saturday evening, Jerry Wong of Kent State will perform a recital featuring piano transcriptions of Wagner operas by Liszt. On Friday evening, the Canton Symphony and music director Gerhardt Zimmermann will present Wagner’s Siegfried Idyll, Liszt’s Malédiction for Piano and Strings and Schubert’s Wanderer Fantasy for Piano and Orchestra arranged by Liszt. Christina Dahl is the pianist for the latter two works, while mezzo-soprano Jane Dutton will perform Wagner’s Wesendonck Lieder with the orchestra.

More details of past and present symposia plus other helpful links, and information about transportation and accommodations are presented at the website http://www.wagnersocietyofohio.org.

From Cool Cleveland contributor Kelly Ferjutz artswriterATadelphia.net

“Ace Boogie” is dead, and I’m not feeling so good myself
The coming cataclysm in the Black community

Folksinger Bob Dylan once sang “You don’t need a weatherman to know the way the wind blows,” and indeed some ill winds have been blowing for some time in Cleveland’s inner-city communities. And those winds are threatening to turn into a full-force hurricane — leaving death, destruction and devastated neighborhoods in its wake — if nothing is done to head off the gathering storm.

The “storm” is gun violence and as inner-city residents apply for concealed weapons permits in ever-increasing numbers the fear is that African-American communities are going to be turned into armed camps … reminiscent of Dodge City and the Wild West.

And, while anyone with an ounce of common sense knows that gun violence cannot be reduced by introducing more guns into neighborhoods, how can any sane person tell law-abiding residents of troubled neighborhoods not to arm themselves, especially after the saga of 15-year-old Arthur “Ace Boogie” Buford played itself out on Kinsman Avenue with such tragic consequences?

For anyone who has been on the moon for the last week or so Buford and his crime partner attempted to rob 25-year-old Damon Wells, who was legally armed, in Well’s front yard as he returned from a grocery store at 8:35 in the evening.. Buford was shot and killed…
Read more from Mansfield Frazier here

Quick reviews of recent events
Going out this weekend? Take along your PDA and your digital camera. Scratch out a few notes to send us with a picture of it for our Instant Karma real-world reviews of what’s really happening. We’d love to hear from you. Send your stuff to Events@CoolCleveland.com

A Lovely World Premiere @ Severance Hall 4/26 At first I thought my ears had somehow become disconnected from each other. That makes more sense than thinking that the renowned strings of the Cleveland Orchestra would not be together at the very beginning of a Mozart symphony! But, two seconds or so later, all was as it should be, and happily stayed that way (and then some) for the rest of the concert. It was a bit un-nerving, though, I must say. Granted Mozart’s Symphony No. 28 in C major isn’t one we hear every day, although why that should be so is a mystery. Under the baton of music director Franz Welser-Möst, it turned into a perfectly delightful example of the genre, with crisp and jaunty playing by the winds and horns, plus the rich-sounding strings. The presto final movement was brisk and lively.

In many ways the Rhapsody for Viola and Orchestra by Richard Sortomme, which received its world premiere could have been subtitled ‘The Pied Piper of Wherever’ as in wherever you lead, I’ll follow. The viola, as sumptuously played by principal Robert Vernon led the orchestra, and the orchestra occasionally returned the favor, but regardless, this was gorgeous music gorgeously played. It was meant to be primarily lyrical, which it was indeed, with just a bit of technical fireworks thrown in for good measure. It was, overall, an enjoyably listenable one-movement show-piece.

Mr. Sortomme and Mr. Vernon are long-time friends, and collaborated closely on the structure and style of this piece. There were short melodic phrases over harmonies from the orchestra including a lovely melody by the horn. This changed into not necessarily traditional, close-harmonic chords modulating in the brass which were very close to jazz, followed by the somewhat strident solo viola playing double stops punctuated by a rather loud bass drum. Interesting combinations of instruments and rhythmic patterns are to be heard throughout, such as harp and marimba or the orchestral violins being silent, while the solo viola played lots of notes over the brass building up to a loud chord.

Then the viola turned melodic again, in a demonstration of very legato playing, while Jonathan Sherwin’s contra-bassoon engaged in a duet with the violin of concertmaster William Preucil, and the trombones were sliding up and down in the background. There were rich and lush sonorities in the orchestral strings with viola and horn playing a duet over all. Gorgeous!

The xylophone was joined by the violins in a bit of jaunty hoe-down type of music. The final viola cadenza was a melody played over ever-changing chords in the orchestra that slowly faded away, leaving the solo viola by itself for a few moments, before fading away, accompanied by the (unscored) rain on the roof of Severance Hall. It was an added mystical touch that could hardly have been programmed in advance.

After intermission, it was the rousing Symphony No. 4 of Tchaikovsky, high on everyone’s list of favorites. This was a perfectly sublime performance, full of passion and intensity and emotion. But of course, this is the perfect Tchaikovsky orchestra, too, with silken, subtle strings whether bowed or plucked, meticulous crisp winds, stalwart brass and percussion played with both finesse and panache.

From the first notes, it was clear this performance would be a somewhat tempestuous one. Mr. Welser-Möst utilized tempos that were definitely on the faster end of the metronome. He set a high standard, but one that was easily within the reach of his musicians. The principal winds were amazing as well as elegant, in their frequent solos or exposed ensembles. Franklin Cohen, clarinet; Barry Stees, bassoon; Joshua Smith, flute; Frank Rosenwein, oboe, and Richard King, horn, exceeded themselves in every instance.

The propulsive first movement moved after a bit to a quieter segment with hushed strings over even more hushed tympani that was breath-takingly lovely. The andantino second movement featured a poignant oboe solo over the plucked strings, followed by the flute. Throughout Mr. Welser-Möst used broad sweeping gestures to convey his meaning. The scherzo featured more pizzicato from the strings, which was then echoed by the brass and winds playing brisk short notes in staccato fashion. The finale marked con fuoco prompted me to write ‘Crash! Boom! Bang! Frenzy!’ I don’t think I can add anything to that. It was a wild and exhilarating ride, one that I enjoyed immensely. It certainly seemed as though the rest of the audience did, as well, judging by the whistles, shouts of ‘bravo’ and raucous applause. All done while standing, naturally.

The orchestra plays two public “Family” concerts on Saturday, May 5 at 11 am and 1:30 pm. May 10-12, Richard King will perform the Strauss Horn Concerto No. 2, in a concert conducted by Paavo Järvi. For tickets or other information, call the ticket office at 231-1111 or 800-686-1141, or visit The Cleveland Orchestra’s website at http://wwwclevelandorchestra.com.

From Cool Cleveland contributor Kelly Ferjutz artswriterATadelphia.net

References to Salvador Dali Make Me Hot @ convergence-continuum 4/27
Reasons to go: At the core of Jose Rivera’s play is an intriguing premise: a young Army wife (the sultry Jennifer Turpeau), stuck alone in the Barstow desert, tries to decide whether she should leave her career soldier husband (Tom Kondilas) when he comes home on leave. Turpeau and Kondilas are well-matched, the relationship well-observed, and the dialogue between them terrific.
Caveats: The surreally poetic framing scenes come off as pretentious and forced, despite the chemistry between a horny coyote (the howlin’ Geoffrey Hoffman) and slinky house cat (a purrfect Amy Bistok).
Details: thru 5/20 at The Liminis, http://www.convergence-continuum.org
From Cool Cleveland contributor Linda Eisenstein LindaATcoolcleveland.com

Monet in Normandy @ Cleveland Museum of Art 4/27 Claude Monet, the King of Impressionism, translated the inspiring Normandy countryside of the 1800s into an exotic mix of pastel landscapes, seascapes and coastlines. “Monet in Normandy” is a stunning collection and the first scholarly exhibition to celebrate the intimate relationship between Monet and his native landscape. This exhibition marks his genius in working with oil paint, the effect of light and his artistic innovation that led us full throttle into the shades of Impressionism. I dare you to stand in the midst of the Monet collection, breathing in all that rich history and not be transformed by the magnificence of his artistry. He was so impassioned by the coastal reaches of his hometown that he almost drowned while painting one of a series of three paintings of the Normandy coastline. The Monet exhibit is extended through May 28, then likely gone forever. Don’t miss this awesome collection before it closes. From Cool Cleveland contributor TL Champion tlATcoolcleveland.com.

Baseball As America @ Great Lakes Science Center 4/28 The Great Lakes Science Center’s “Baseball As America” exhibit clearly demonstrates how baseball has shaped America and Americans greater than we know. In boardrooms across the US, organizations talk about needing “ballpark estimates” to prep their budgets, and how their sales team needs to “hit it out of the park.” And they pat the new intern on the back when he gets the company mission “right off the bat.” The evolution of baseball has always had a direct connection with the development of our society, and permeates our nation’s pop culture, parallels our civility, our morals and beliefs as a nation. Maybe there isn’t any crying in baseball, but it’s been fraught with challenges over the last hundred plus years. Examples include breaking the color barrier in 1947 when Jackie Robinson entered the major leagues, the snubbing of women’s teams that were deemed “unladylike” by social standards, and the inception of free agency throughout the industry. The Great Lakes Science Center is exhibiting a stunning array of over 500 fab artifacts from Cooperstown, NY, the home of baseball and Abner Doubleday, the man who hit a grand slam in introducing it to us. The exhibition spans a historic timeline that starts in 1839 with the first baseball used by Doubleday, and it includes other unbelievable items like Babe Ruth’s bat with the 28 notches he carved to mark his homeruns. “America As Baseball” will be at the GLSC until September 3rd. Only 124 days left — don’t miss it. From Cool Cleveland contributor TL Champion tlATcoolcleveland.com.

Jolson & Company @ Tri-C East 4/29
Reasons to go: This bio-musical about entertainer Al Jolson both rises and falls on the appeal of the lead. Marc Moritz is strong vocally but brings an icy edge rather than sympathy to his portrayal of the talented but miserably selfish S.O.B. that was Jolson. Adding humanity and warmth is the endearing kewpie doll known as Kristin Netzband, who plays all the women in Jolson’s life from Mae West to his tapping ex-wife, Ruby Keeler.
Caveats: The script doesn’t shy away from the star’s crudeness: the language curled the hair of the matinee audience who’d come to hear the well-sung Jolson standards, and there is a blackface scene.
Details: Jewish Community Center, thru 5/20 at Tri-C East, http://www.clevejcc.org/jolson-and-company.asp
From Cool Cleveland contributor Linda Eisenstein LindaATcoolcleveland.com

Do Make a Scene! @ Cleveland Institute of Music 4/29 In addition to complete staged opera, CIM’s Opera Theater program presents at least one showcase a season of solo and ensemble selections. This year’s is Do Make a Scene! featuring costumed and slightly staged selections. Students not in a given scene do an introduction to each piece, allowing for stage time, a necessary part of any singer’s training. Artistic Director David Bamberger directed and staged the various vignettes, while Opera Coach John Simmons was Music Director, masterfully performing at the piano for most selections, with assistance from Ralitsa Georgieva-Smith. The students range from freshmen to graduate level, with varying amounts of experience behind them, as well. Some of the selections were more successful than others, but all were entertaining. Costumes by Alison Garrigan and Molly Taylor were bright and colorful and very appropriate to the individual operatic vignettes.

The standout performance was To This We’ve Come from The Consul by Gian Carlo Menotti, part of a three-selection tribute to the beloved composer who passed away in February at the age of 96. Natasha Ospina was extraordinary and very moving as Magda, bemoaning the lack of concern for humanity in government regulations. Nearly half the audience was in tears at the conclusion of her piece, and half of them were male.

The entire second half was devoted to Act II of The Marriage of Figaro, of Mozart. These singers were generally more advanced, and this extra experience and training was very evident. The Countess was portrayed in a dignified manner by Laryssa Sherman, while her exuberant maid Susanna was sung by Ann Coffman. Richard Ollarsaba was a most flirtatious Figaro and Irene Roberts was Cherubino. The blustery Count was Jarod Jones, and Morris Franklin Young was the slightly tipsy Antonio. In lesser roles were Sarah Baldus as Marcellina, Marcel Worrell Miller as Basilio and John Gray Watson as Dr. Bartolo.

My only quibble with these scenes is the lack of movement. Opera is not static—it is a veritable moveable feast of action combined with singing, and for the singer of the moment to just come down front and sing his or her aria before going back into the story seems to disrupt the flow of the piece. This was not the case in every example. Ms. Ospina, for instance, as Magda gave an Oscar-winning performance. Several other young singers, however, simply stood, as in a recital. They will have to learn movement at some point, and the sooner such action becomes an integral part of the music’s natural flow to the singer, the happier the audience will be.

Still, however, such varied and secure young voices as were on display in this weekend’s performances bode well for the future of this greatly-admired and fast-growing art form.

CIM regularly presents concerts and recitals by both faculty and students, as well as guest artists. For tickets or other information about any of these presentations, visit their website: http://www.cim.edu or call 791-5000.

From Cool Cleveland contributor Kelly Ferjutz artswriterATadelphia.net

Cool Cleveland readers write
We encourage our readers to speak out by sending us letters and commentary. Send your letters to Letters@CoolCleveland.com. You must include your full name (required) and you may include your e-mail address (optional). You may also create a new Hotmail, Yahoo or Gmail e-mail address and submit it with your letter. Letters submitted to Cool Cleveland, or edited portions, may be published in an upcoming issue of Cool Cleveland at our discretion.

Send your letters to: Letters@CoolCleveland.com

ODOT redux (See Is ODOT out of control? here) We posted about the Ohio Department of Transportation’s Inner Belt debacle, and now one of the most prominent bridge architects is speaking out. Readers have posted numerous comments. Here’s a sample:

“All the outrage here is totally justified. Very glad to see the publicity for this impending debacle. The only thing I have to say is that it’s L-O-N-G overdue…” comment by Denise

“It is a shame the direction this bridge issue is going. There is absolutely no reason why CLE should have a subpar piece of infrastructure architecture. ABSOLUTELY NONE. Public input has been ignored, overall…” comment by Sarah Reinbolt

Read and add your own comment here

Send your letters to: Letters@CoolCleveland.com

Most clicked
Here are the Top 5 from last week’s issue, with one more chance for you to click.

1) Straight Outta Mansfield Mansfield Frazier on Sam Fulwood’s demotion.
www.CoolCleveland.com

2) Love letter to Cleve on 30 Rock Check out the glamour footage of our town, courtesy of Cle’s Glazen Creative Studios…
www.NBC.com

3) Is ODOT out of control? The Ohio Department of Transportation has ticked off just about everyone in Northeast Ohio with their $1.5 billion Inner Belt project…
www.BrewedFreshDaily.com

4) Kucinich plans to impeach Cheney Brilliant campaign ploy?
www.WashingtonPost.com

5) A Taste of Coventry A fundraiser to benefit the effort to save this summer’s Coventry Street Arts Fairs.
www.CoventryVillage.org

A Big Ol’ Plus Sign We’d like to think your friendly neighborhood Cool Cleveland is a plus in your week. We sure do all we can to add to your life. If we do, help us multiply by sending your friends around to us. Big thanks to Peter Chakerian + TL Champion + George Nemeth + Tim Zaun + Kelly Ferjutz + Mansfield B. Frazier + Bill Lipold + Linda Eisenstein + YOU, our readers and everyone who partners with us. Want to volunteer and contribute your writing to Cool Cleveland? Send your reviews, articles, or story ideas to: Events@CoolCleveland.com.

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4 Million Strong,
–Thomas Mulready
Letters@CoolCleveland.com

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