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We have season tickets to the Merrimack Repertory Theatre and it’s been a great investment. We’ll be there tonight for the preview of The Missionary Position, a satiric comedy that mixes politics and religion—especially timely for the primaries, not to mention the youth-enhancing benefits of laughter. (I’m also planning to swing by Winterfest for soup tasting before the show—more on that later.) Seeing all the MRT plays has required some schedule juggling, but we’ve enjoyed every production immensely. It has also made me realize the great gift of experiencing live theatre regularly. With that in mind, I took my 11-year-old daughter to the Boston Opera House Tuesday (children free with an adult) for opening night of My Fair Lady. Because I only had to pay for my seat and she got the one next to me, I opted for premium seats (second row center orchestra), which was wise for a venue that large. I guess I’ve grown accustomed to the intimacy of the MRT…Speaking of accustomed, My Fair Lady was fantastic (“awesome” says my daughter). I was especially thrilled to hear again the classic songs I know so well, and the memories they evoked of my mother singing, “I could have danced all night” while washing dishes, or “All I want is a room somewhere, far away from the cold night air,” or “With a little bit of luck,” and “Get me to the church on time!” Who could forget Audrey Hepburn and Rex Harrison in the film version of this great, 50-year-old musical, although the current cast of British actors does a fine job. I especially enjoyed Lisa O’Hare as Eliza Doolittle with her expressive face and great voice, as well as the spirited performance of Tim Jerome as Alfred P. Doolittle, whose blue eyes literally sparkled out at the audience mischievously.

I finally got back to the New England Quilt Museum to view their current exhibit (which ends today!).  “Lowell: Inside Out” is a juried exhibition featuring 26 quilts inspired by the Mill City.  This is such a great show! I don’t have time to elaborate, but if you have a chance, stop by.  The colorful ”Lowell Spinners 10th Anniversary” quilt is the first to catch your eye at the top of the stairs; next, I was drawn to the fabulous “Canal Walk, 2007″ where a photo taken from behind the Doubletree Hotel was divided into 6 pieces.  Each quilter took a piece, they shared fabrics, and the result is amazing.  The pieces are all individual, but work together beautifully in a triptych-like manner to show the whole picture.  I really like these ’art quilts’ that depict scenes through creative use of fabric and clever stitching, but there are many abstract quilts that reward close inspection. Seriously, if you’re downtown today, take a look.  

I loved the new play at the Merrimack Repertory Theatre, 2 Pianos 4 Hands by Ted Dykstra and Richard Greenblatt, which opened tonight to a packed house. Judging by the quick standing ovation and cheers from the audience, I wasn’t the only one. The musical comedy is worth braving the cold to see and runs until Jan. 27, but don’t wait to get your tickets. (The rest of this weekend is already sold out.)  The play is a fun-loving romp that includes live musical performances spanning Beethoven and Chopin to “Great Balls of Fire” and “Benny and the Jets.” The laugh-out-loud antics and facial expressions of the two talented piano-playing actors (not an easy find) were exceptional in the context of their often hilarious, intense piano feuding. For anyone who has ever played an instrument, taken lessons, or forced someone else to take lessons, this journey will especially resonate. Ultimately, as with most good art of whatever form, there is a universal truth about the human condition that speaks to us all. To experience that truth together, amid laughter and the wonderful sounds of two grand pianos, was well worth the price of a ticket, and I can’t think of a better way to spend a January evening.

I just found out that the Revolving Museum’s current exhibit, “Electrifying:  The Art of Illumination” is on until December 30th.  Here’s the description: Inspired by The Revolving Museum’s building, originally the Lowell Gas & Lighting headquarters built in 1859, this dynamic multimedia exhibition involves artwork of over 100 youth from our art education programs. The show powerfully captures the metaphorical concept of how illumination can spark ideas, dreams, positive self image, social issues, and community expression.  The museum is open Tuesday – Sunday, 11 – 4, closed Christmas Day.  Admission is free. This could be a good downtown activity for the kids during vacation week!   I also learned of a new e-newsletter being put out by the one of the city departments, called “Downtown this Week,”:  it’s informative, the format is clear and uncluttered, and it’s full of good information.  I think this is a timely service.  While I was doing my downtown shopping research, I really couldn’t find one comprehensive website that that was kept updated and that gave a good overview of what’s happening downtown. (The Downtown Lowell Business Association website seems dull and uninspired by comparision.)   From the newsletter you can explore the http://www.lowell.org/ website which has a section for restaurants/bars, art scene (links to COOL), office and loft space and more

My next stop on my Lowell shopping odyssey was Roger’s Pool and Toy (the link refers to the pool business only, but gives hours and directions) on Middle Street.  The smell of chlorine is reminiscent of summer pool days, but, this time of year, the shelves are well-stocked with toys, games and puzzles.  They have Brio, Playmobile, Legos ($19 and up) and more, and the experience is vastly more pleasant than at the generic toy madhouses.  Along with many of the classics, I spotted an excellent game for ages 8 and up, called Mastermind ($15.99) that pre-teens, teens and adults can all enjoy.  Moving along,  Life Alive, the Urban Oasis, is the place to buy a gift certificate for a health-conscious friend. If you haven’t tried their soups and tofu dishes, you don’t know what you’re missing. In addition, they have insipiring magnet quotes ($5) and an array of candles, organic skincare products and vitamins.  Next door is Van Gogh’s Gear, which is open Monday – Friday, 10-6, Saturday, 11-6 and Sunday, noon to 4.  Proprieter Steve Syverson stocks a myriad of supplies for the beginning or established artist.  I noticed a fine, 50 page sketch pad for under $10, with part of the proceeds going to the American Wildlife Fund, as well as some travel sketch books in varying sizes with nice leather covers for under $10.  The set of black sketching pencils ($8.96) and premium pastel pencils ($17.79) made me long to take an art class. You will also find quality color and paint-by-number sets, origami paper and Crayola products.  The Revolving Museum has fabulous “EVOLVE” t-shirts, black with striking red lettering, for $14.95, plus hats and totes, and assorted artist-made jewelry. Their current show is closing, but mark your calendar for their new exciting show, entitled “Toys and Games” which will be opening on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2008. Across the street, the New England Quilt Museum is currently featuring quilts about Lowell in an exhibition entitled “Lowell Inside Out,” which runs through through January 12.  In their gift shop, you will find kits to make tote bags ($39) plus a quilt kit, with everything needed to create a full sized quilt in one bag for $159.  They also have mugs and other memorabilia, scarves and purses, ornaments, stocking stuffers, and a few toys. I really liked the giant floor puzzle (ages 3-6) for $15.99.  By the way, this week is Cookie Week in their museum gift shop, with hot drinks and cookies for shoppers and museum-goers through Sunday.  By visiting the website, you can print a coupon for 10% off purchases. Next up, Merrimack Street… more »

It’s just one week until Christmas and perhaps you still have some shopping to do?  If you are trying to avoid the mall this year, but have run out of time to order online, then why not give downtown Lowell a try?  Start at the Brush Art Gallery, conveniently located in the Market Mills courtyard, by the National Park Visitor’s Center.  When I went downtown early on Tuesday last, the Brush wasn’t open yet, so I browsed around in the Park gift shop (open daily, Mon – Sat, 9-4:30, Sunday, 10-4:30).  You can get pleasing cotton dishtowels, made at the Boott Mills, for $3.95 or $11 for a package of three, or one dishtowel with a small informative book detailing Lowell’s part in the Industrial Revolution for $11.95, which would make a nice gift. They also have park ranger hats ($8.95) and National Park coloring books for the younger set.  National Park T-shirts in heavy cotton, cream colored or green, with a Lowell Trolley on the front, are $14.95, and seem to be only available in the hard-to-find small or medium sizes. 

Back at the Brush (hours:  Tues- Sat, 11 am – 4 pm, Sun. 12 pm – 4 pm), you will find plenty of tempting artist-made merchandise for every price-range.  The prolific, multi-media artist Lolita Demers has interesting glass jewelry, pottery, and glass serving trays which look like flattened wine bottles and are suitable for cheese and crackers, sushi or cookies.  They come in a variety of colors and sizes and are dressed up with ribbons and include a unique cheese-spreader (prices vary; a large one which I purchased for a hostess gift was $19).  Weaver Cynthia Hughes has a beautiful array of scarves in mouth-watering colors, fine silk, cotton or rayon chenille for $75, she also offers gift certificates for a weaving class; for $60, you can make your own scarf.  Jewelry artist Penny Cox is also offering a class in basic wiring for bead jewelry for $50. In her studio there are many beautiful steel wire and copper beaded bracelets and earrings, as well as “Penny Candy” – affordable, fun earrings.  Near the register, I spotted some whimsical wine-bottle stoppers, made of stainless steel with tall bead tops for $19 (not sure of the artist).  In the joint studio of Jay Hungate and Chrissy Theo Hungate, I was charmed by a pair of gargoyle bookends:  modeled on the paladins who protect Apollo’s temple; they have flat tops that could hold a candle, and are $36 each or $60 for the pair.  Who from Lowell wouldn’t want a print of The Owl Diner ($75 framed or $25 unframed) by local artist Vassily Giavos.  He has many prints to choose from as well as original art work of Lowell street scenes.  His latest work has a dreamy, retro style.  Pastel artist Pamela Wamala has note cards (4 for $10, or 6 for $15) — the winter scenes are particularly tranquil– or tiny original pastels in heavy gold frames for $75.  Gay Tracey’s appealing dogs in surprising colors cry out to be brought home to the dog lover in your life, either as a card, print or original.  Deirdre Grunwald uses Celtic designs as a starting point for her paintings and ceramics, and has note cards and prints available as well as original works.  Other artists are Carol Boileau (landscapes in watercolor and acrylics), botanical illustrator Leslie MacPhail, stained glass artist Donna Murray, and photographer Steve Noroian (I own a print of his “Fiery Rowboat” which I love).  Often you can meet and speak with the artists while browsing at the Brush, and, of course, giving locally made gifts by local artists is priceless! (I hope I haven’t left anyone out; do check the website for more information on the artists).

This post is getting rather long and I’ve only gone to two places, but I hope you’ll continue reading to learn what’s on offer for the holidays at Salon City and other establishments on Market, Middle and Merrimack Streets. more »

Well, the metaphor about scoring doesn’t work for boxing, but it’s sports-oriented and it’s the truth.  The latest play from the MRT is a winner, but I’m sorry to report that Sunday was the final performance of Tunney/Shakespeare in Six Rounds by David E. Lane.  I went at the last minute, having missed my regular night and switched my tickets twice (luckily they are very forgiving toward regular subscribers), and I’m so glad I made it.  I couldn’t figure out how boxing and Shakespeare could intersect in a meaningful way, but the playwright wove the facts about world heavyweight champion Gene Tunney into an engrossing narrative about life, luck, and philosophy that is a total knockout (there, that one works!).  Tunney came across Shakespeare accidentally when in the Marines and heading off to war in 1918 and reading the plays literally changed his life.  He uses lines and scenes from the plays (not all of them the big names like Hamlet either; he draws on The Winter’s Tale, Troilus and Cressida and, especially, Coriolanus) to highlight turning points in his own life and to illuminate the behavior of other boxers.  He credits Shakespeare with his successes both in and out of the ring, but also with an ability to see beyond success, to capture small, rare, hard-won insights into the meaning of life.  Actor Jack Wetherall was flawless in delivery and timing and portrayed a genial, thoughtful, big-hearted man, a thinker as well as a man of action.  We couldn’t believe this was David Lane’s first play! I’m just sorry I can’t go see it again right away.

Don’t miss the premier this Thursday, Oct. 25, of “Immigrant Stories of Lowell,” a film produced this summer by five Lowell High students and five graduate students from UMass, which will be shown at the Revolving Museum at 7 p.m. Working as a team, the students (whose members originated from four continents) spoke with 25 people from Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, Europe, and several African countries about why they chose to come to Lowell, how they adapted to life in the city, and how they maintain their culture for future generations. Looking past differences in culture and traditions, the students discovered that most people, no matter what their background, strive for the same thing: a better life and a bright future for the next generation. The team compiled what they learned as part of this summer’s CITA project and incorporated it into the 25-minute I-Movie.

Last night we saw the Merrimack Repertory Theater’s season opener, The Pursuit of Happiness, which is a thoroughly enjoyable romp through adolescent angst, mid-life crisis, and family binds. Anyone who has ever been a teenager or a parent can relate to this quirky play, with its edgy dialogue, laughs, and insights about accepting disappointment from loved ones and surviving the lives we create for ourselves. Playwright and Massachusetts native Richard Dresser has done an exceptional job. Decades beyond my own teen years while currently parenting one at home, I found the well-written play laugh-out-loud funny and painfully bittersweet. After years of sporadically attending plays (when we could), we finally committed to season tickets, hoping we’d be able to make time to see them all. Well, last night was our first performance as season ticket holders and it was a great way to kick off the year.  Now playing at the MRT until Oct. 28, The Pursuit of Happiness is a definite recommend.

New York City has its off-Broadway shows and so do we. It just may be the best-kept secret in town (no coverage from the local paper), but that doesn’t mean it’s not a good time: inexpensive, fun, and best of all, full of local talent—some of it right under our noses. Last night was the debut of the Image Theater’s Mill City Minutes 2007, a show of short plays and dances performed by local actors, directors, and writers. Shown in the photo, Team Rithim, a new dance troupe of teens from Lowell and Lawrence, do an amazing dance (energy, synergy and attitude) to their own mix of rap music. The dance was one of two in the show; the other was Catch 22 Dance Troupe, which performed to original music. A great thing about Mill City Minutes is the variety and range of the show—two very different dances and seven short plays, each lasting about 10 minutes: quick snippets and then it’s on to the next story. Overall, the plays were edgy, thought-provoking, touching, or laugh-out-loud funny—just what you would expect from alternative theater and definitely worth the $20 admission fee. In addition, it showcased talent from local folks I didn’t know were involved in theater such as Jim Neary from the school department, June Sweet (our own school committee secretary), Walter Wright (fellow LTC board member), and Kate Harmon (wife of Sean from Harmon’s Paints). The show also included a play written and directed by newcomer Kate Bisantz, a LHS alumna and recent graduate of Emerson College, whose Circle of Fire can only be described as a crazy, witty dash into sarcastic surrealism. (My husband and I loved it.) In fact, we enjoyed the entire evening and recommend you experience Lowell’s other street for theater. Now playing at the McDonough Theater (LHS Freshman Academy) at 30 Paige Street, see Mill City Minutes Sept. 21, 22 at 8 p.m.