What to do in Oklahoma on June 17, 2011: See EdgeArtNow at IAO Gallery
"Aggregate" by Cathy Deuschle is included in IAO's EdgeArtNow 2011.
Today's featured event:
See EdgeArtNow 2011, an annual juried exhibition of selected mixed media and new media work organized by Individual Artists of Oklahoma. The exhibition, now in its 20th year, will open with a reception from 6 to 9 tonight.
Works included in this exhibition were selected from submitted mixed media and new media artworks by the juror Robert Dohrmann. Work from 19 Oklahoman artists will be displayed in this exhibition.
For this exhibition “mixed media” is defined as two or more distinct media in one art piece. IAO uses the term “new media” to refer to artwork created using advances in technology. Through this exhibition, IAO wishes to celebrate and encourage fresh, original and ambitious approaches to creation of art.
Dohrmann is an associate professor of art at the University of Oklahoma. He received his bachelor of arts in art, with an emphasis in painting, in 1989, and his master of fine arts in painting and drawing in 1992 at Central Washington University, Ellensburg, Wash. In 2001, Dohrmann turned his research interests to digital media. Dohrmann’s most recent body of works include experimental video shorts, a series of large-scale propaganda banners relating to the nuclear age and post-Sept. 11 issues, audio mash-up’s and nonlinear, interactive, web-based media (concepts ranging from digital communication styles to the human genome project). He has had several solo exhibitions throughout the US and has participated in many international film festivals over the past several years.
Comprised of 32 works of art, the exhibition will continue at the IAO Gallery through July 9. Local band Esthing will perfom at the opening reception.
For more information, go to www.iaogallery.org.
For more events, go to www.wimgo.com.
See the list of participating artists after the break.
Video: “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2″ trailer
What a week for Harry Potter fans.
The second and reportedly final trailer for “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2″ has debuted. Since this is the last movie in the series, this is probably the last Harry Potter trailer we’re ever going to get. Moment of silence …
… and I’m pleased to report that I have goosebumps from this preview. It all looks amazing, but I got a glimpse of my favorite moment from “Deathly Hallows”: Molly Weasley (Julie Walters) goes to war.
Look out Bellatrix. Once you go after her baby girl, Mrs. Weasley’s not a snuggly stay-at-home mom anymore; she’s a mama bear with mega wand skills.
In related news, Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling this week launched a mysterious new website, Pottermore.com.
The site just promises it’s “coming soon,” and whatever it is, I can’t wait.
“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2″ is due in theaters on July 15.
-BAM
Video: Neil Young MusiCares tribute featuring Leon Russell on DVD and Blu-ray
On Jan. 29, 2010, rock legend Neil Young was honored as the 2010 MusiCares Person of the Year. At a gala event in Los Angeles, superstar artists paid tribute to the legendary singer, songwriter and performer with inspired versions of some of his most memorable songs.
The star-studded “A MusiCares Tribute to Neil Young” recently was released on DVD and Blu-ray through Shout! Factory.
Proceeds from the sale of the DVDs and Blu-rays will provide essential support for MusiCares, which ensures that music people have a place to turn to in times of financial, medical and personal need.
“A MusiCares Tribute to Neil Young” features Elvis Costello, Crosby Stills & Nash, John Fogerty, Ben Harper, Norah Jones, Dave Matthews, James Taylor, Jackson Browne and Wilco performing Young’s best-known songs.
As seen in this video, the tribute includes a great rendition of Young’s “Helpless” performed by Elton John, Neko Case, Sheryl Crow, T Bone Burnett, Don Was, Kenny Aronoff and Oklahoma native Leon Russell.
A 2011 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Uncle Leon tonight was ushered into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
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Video: Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art exhibits modern, contemporary art
NewsOK host Angi Bruss checks out the newly reinstalled gallery of modern and contemporary art at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art in Norman in this video.
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Video: Behind the scenes of the movie “Yellow,” filming in Oklahoma
NewsOK host Angi Bruss went behind the scenes of the independent film “Yellow” as shooting took place Wednesday in Northpark Mall in Oklahoma City.
Scenes from the film were recently shot in Shawnee, too. My fine colleague Ann Kelley last week talked to Frank Oliver, owner of Shawnee’s Hardesty Grocery, where the production filmed last week. Oliver is playing himself in the movie, and he wasn’t even nervous when he shot his scenes.
“These folks are like everyone else,” Oliver told Ann. “They’re doing a job just like me only they’re famous for it. Except I bet sometimes they’d rather not be famous, and get to live like you and me.”
“Yellow” is written by A-list director Nick Cassavetes and his wife, Heather Wahlquist, with Cassavetes directing and Wahlquist in the starring role. The couple previously worked together on the films”The Notebook,” “John Q” and “My Sister’s Keeper.”
The drama centers on Mary Holmes, who returns to her Oklahoma roots after her seemingly successful life in Los Angeles becomes plagued with issues, including a drug habit and bad sexual choices.
Back in Oklahoma, Mary must cope with the memories that come flooding back — her father’s painful death, her sister’s descent into insanity and questions of love and incest.
The movie also stars Melanie Griffith, Sienna Miller, Ben Foster and Cassavetes’ mother Gena Rowlands. Ray Liotta was at Northpark Mall Wednesday to shoot a restaurant scene for the film.
Eighty percent of the film is being shot in Oklahoma, reports Anne, with backdrops in cities such as Pauls Valley, McAlester and Wahlquist’s hometown, Seminole.
To read more of Ann’s story about the film, click here.
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Tulsa’s BOK Center earns international award
Tulsa's BOK Center has received the International Association of Venue Managers' 2011 Venue Excellence Award. (Photo by Nate Billings, The Oklahoman Archive)
TULSA – The International Association of Venue Managers has awarded the BOK Center the 2011 Venue Excellence Award, according to a news release.
This prestigious award is given annually to only one arena in the world and recognizes the best arena based on four criteria used to demonstrate the ways in which the venue has excelled in the management and operation of a public assembly venue. The criteria for the award includes: Operational Excellence, Teambuilding/Professional Development, Safety and Security, and Service to the Community.
“The BOK Center and SMG, in receiving this award, put themselves at the pinnacle of venue management. What the BOK Center has accomplished in just three short years is truly phenomenal,” said Dexter King, President and CEO of the International Association of Venue Managers, in the release.
“As the world leader in venue management we expect the best and I’m happy to say that our management team in Tulsa has accomplished this goal in an amazing fashion,” said Wes Westley, President and CEO of SMG, in the release.
Tulsa Mayor Dewey Bartlett added in the release, “The BOK Center under SMG’s leadership has truly shown what a successful public/private partnership should look like. We couldn’t have accomplished or received the praise, recognition, and acclaim without SMG, I especially want to give praise and thanks to John Bolton, the General Manager of the BOK Center. Our receipt of this prestigious award is due in large part to Mr. Bolton’s leadership and vision.”
Bolton said in the release, “To be recognized as THE BEST takes an amazing team and I’m proud to say we have that team with SMG both here in Tulsa and in our corporate headquarters in Philadelphia. This award recognizes the hundreds of part-time and full-time employees who work every day to ensure our guests have an amazing experience.”
Founded in 1924, the International Association of Venue Managers, having significant influence in a global industry, is the acknowledged organization providing superlative leadership, cutting-edge innovation, advanced education, supportive advocacy, opportunities for networking and connection to other venue professionals around the world.
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Bryan White to play tornado benefit show June 25 in Ada
Country singer and Lawton native Bryan White will return to his home state next week to perform at a concert to raise money for victims of last month’s deadly tornado outbreak.
The “God & Country Tour: Oklahoma Tornado Benefit Concert” is set for 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, June 25 at 3-Crosses/Ken Lance Arena, 20289 CR 3610 in Ada. Click here for directions.
Gates open at 5:30 p.m. A free youth rodeo starts at 3 p.m.
Tickets are $10 in advance and $13 at the door. All proceeds will go directly to families impacted by the tornados, according to organizers.
Other performers include Woody Wright, Chris Hester, Matt Blagg and David Klinkenberg.
The concert is being organized by RDB Productions and The Gospel Station Network.
For tickets or information, go to www.itickets.com.
Eleven people died when tornadoes ripped across the state on May 24.
“Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” celebrates 25th anniversary with upcoming Blu-ray/DVD re-release, rumors of sequel
“Life moves pretty fast.” Indeed.
The classic John Hughes movie “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” celebrated its 25th anniversary over the weekend. One of the best and most iconic comedies of the ’80s, it was released on June 11, 1986.
For most film fans of good taste – particularly those of my generation – “Ferris Bueller” is so beloved that it would be impossible to list an absolute favorite moment. Like many, I can pretty much quote the thing from beginning to end, since it’s one of my go-to choices when I need a pick-me-up movie.
Of course, big anniversary = pay grab as far as Hollywood is concerned, and celebrating a quarter-century of voodoo economics, pancreas lunches and -isms of any kind is no different.
According to FirstShowing.net, there’s renewed interest in a Ferris Bueller sequel script by relative unknown writer Rick Rapier. The script for “Ferris Bueller 2: Another Day Off,” features Ferris as a successful motivational speaker with “Life Moves Pretty Fast” as the cornerstone of his spiel and best pal Cameron Frye (Alan Ruck) as his faithful business manager. As Ferris approaches his 40th birthday, he creates chaos when he decides to again take one last day off.
Personally, I just can’t imagine a Ferris Bueller follow-up, and not just because I would hate to see the legacy of such a favorite sullied. A sequel also means that I might potentially have to hear more from the apparently drug-addled mind of Charlie Sheen, who famously makes a cameo as the apparently drug-addled boy at the police station who wins the rebellious heart of Ferris’ sister Jeanie (Jennifer Grey).
In related news, Paramount Home Entertainment will celebrate the 25th anniversary of the film with another Blu-ray and DVD release on Aug. 2. The new Blu-ray and DVD will feature a commemorative packaging that will sport a new graphic outline of Ferris’ adventures through Chicago, including visits to Wrigley Field, the Art Institute of Chicago, and a fabulous parade through downtown.
The discs additionally will feature previously released, in-depth bonus material that takes viewers behind-the-scenes to learn about the making of the enduringly popular film. (The key words here are “previously released,” kids.)
The new Blu-ray and DVD will include the behind-the-scenes featurettes “Getting the Class Together – The Cast of Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” “The Making of Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” “Who is Ferris Bueller?” “The World According to Ben Stein” and ”Vintage Ferris Bueller: The Lost Tapes,” as well as a class album, according to a news release.
Read more on the new Blu-ray and DVD after the break. If you don’t own a copy of the movie already, it will be useful to you, since I consider “Ferris Bueller” viewings in the triple digits a requirement for any good student of popular culture.
Video: Hanson makes a cameo in Katy Perry’s “Last Friday Night” video
Tulsa sibling trio Hanson makes an appearance in Katy Perry’s new music video, “Last Friday Night.”
The throwback video also features Rebecca Black, Darren Criss, Kevin McHale, Kenny G, Debbie Gibson and Corey Feldman, along with Perry herself.
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Carrie Underwood makes Forbes’ list of best-paid celebrities under 30; Lady Gaga tops list
Checotah native and Season 4 champ Carrie Underwood performs with Season 10 runner-up Lauren Alaina on this year's "American Idol" finale on Wednesday, May 25, 2011, in Los Angeles. Underwood has ranked on Forbes' list of the 20 "Best-Paid Celebrities Under 30," hailing her as one of the two most successful "Idol" winners, along with Kelly Clarkson. (AP Photo
Checotah native Carrie Underwood has been listed on Forbes’ list of “Best-Paid Celebrities Under 30,” ranking No. 19 on the financial publication’s ranking of 20 young music, movie and sports stars.
Forbes estimates that Underwood, 28, made $15 million in the past year. “With a successful tour and a role in the recent film ‘Soul Surfer,’ Underwood can count herself as one of the two most successful ‘American Idol’ winners, along with Kelly Clarkson. She’s had 10 No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart,” reports Forbes.
Pop and fashion sensation Lady Gaga topped the list by grossing an astounding $170 million from 137 shows in 22 countries. Between May 2010 and May 2011 (before her latest album, “Born This Way,” was released), she sold an estimated 15 million albums worldwide. Forbes estimates that over that time Gaga earned $90 million.
Fellow pop star Justin Bieber, the youngest on the list at 17, ranked second with $53 million in earnings over the past 12 months.
And LeBron James may have failed to win an NBA championship ring with the Miami Heat, but he brought in $48 million in the past year to rank No. 3. Nine of the top-earning young celebrities are athletes, including fellow basketball pros Dwyane Wade, Carmelo Anthony and Dwight Howard; tennis champs Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Maria Sharapova; and soccer stars Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
Others on the list include country music standout Taylor Swift, “Twilight” actors Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart, R&B powerhouse Rihanna, pop stars Katy Perry and Beyonce, actress/singer Miley Cyrus and rapper Lil’ Wayne.
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