Ethel Bruneau “Miss Swing” and “The Queen of Afro-Cuban``.

I headed to Dorval Saturday to try a tap dancing class given by Montreal legendary teacher Ethel Bruneau. Much like ballet and jazz, the technique is what makes the aspect of tap so much more difficult than other forms of fitness. Although I was a little slow to remember, it is much like riding a bike, you never forget.  The energy, the sounds and the music all coming together in harmony with the rhythm of expression.  I knew there was a reason I had loved it so much.        



Tap dance is a mixture of African drum rhythms and dance movements, English clog dance and Irish Step but it is intertwined with Swing, Lindy Hop, the Waltz and Foxtrot, amongst a few, making it a mixture of many styles and elements. In 1882, Thomas Rice added metallic soles to his shoes to add noise to his rhythmic movement and other minstrel and vaudeville actors immediately followed suit. Tap dancing spread wildly and soon became a popular form of comedy. Also emerging from the vaudeville period where the Charleston kicking dances of the chorus girls with their clacking noise on stage, the buck and wing styles of some minstrel shows and Dutch-style wooden soled shoes. Hence, tapping with a leather shoe and metal sole began to be governed by tap masters, among these, John Bubbles and ``Slap and Happy`` (Howard Daniel and Leslie Irvin). On a side note, ``soft-shoe dancing`` or ``character dancing`` is dancing without the metallic soles.

It is remarkable and ironic to think that a dance form that once started out to ridicule African-American people is now recognised internationally and praised as a milestone of success and a great representation of African-American artists. Take the time to read about the history, it is eye-opening.

Ethel Bruneau is a Montreal legend when it comes to tap dancing. Having started dancing at the age of 3, she grew up in Harlem and took classes with Mary Bruce, a famous creative inspiring teacher that taught not only Gregory Hines but great dancers such as The Nicholas Brothers, Josephine Primus and Bill Robinson. By the time she was a teenager, Ethel had danced at Carnegie Hall and had been on television across North America on The Ed Sullivan Show as a bona fide hoofer.  In 1953, at 16, she ventured to Montreal when she started working for Cab Calloway which in turn led to a working relationship with Roy Cooper, a Montreal talent agent. She recalls how busy St-Catherine street was back then.  Nightclubs boomed from St-Catherine to St-Laurent, every club had a band, shake dancer, stripper, tap dancer and/or MC.  It was the Las Vegas of North America.  She recalls thinking, ``This is amazing, I`m in another world and I`m going to stay here``.  Not only a dancer but a trained singer,  she decided Montreal was the place to be.  In 1955 she met her French Canadian husband, Henry Bruneau at the Main Café. A waiter named Red for his bright red hair, they were married at Union United Church in 1957 and had 2 children.  In 1962, performing at the Plaza Hotel, a fellow musician mentioned how great it would be if she decided to teach tap in and around the Montreal area. Hence a 60 year career began.  Having taught hundreds of children, she will forever be recognised as an icon in Montreal. She is still teaching today at 79 and says she wakes up every morning to dance and she goes to bed happy.  She received the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Achievement award because of her significant role that contributed to African-Canadian artistic culture and life in Canada.

This Sunday you can join her at the Klaxson Studio at 4055 St-Catherine West from 10:00 to 1:00 to celebrate May 25th`s National Tap Day . A remembrance created by Carol Vaughn, Nicola Daval, and Linda Christensen to remember Bill ``Bojangles`` Robinson who broke protocol and toured solo.  In the early 20the century, for African-Americans, this was rare.  A long history of dance, politics and entertainment but a remembrance that will not be forgotten.  Visit the school at https://www.facebook.com/Ethelbruneautapdancing?fref=ts or the webpage at http://tanyarivard.wix.com/ethel-bruneau for more information.

Helping to support local artists on My Montreal Art and Fitness.  Follow on FACEBOOK , TWITTER, and GOOGLE + (Click on the name to follow and for updates!)

Michael Treder

Quoting Edgar Lawrence, ``writing is an exploration. You start from nothing and learn as you go``. 

Michael Treder is a writer and director living in Montreal. I first met him as the production manager when casted in the film of Euchre (https://vimeo.com/83354953), a short by Tom Abray.  I began to follow his blog http://www.michaeltreder.ca/ where you can get a glimpse of his passion for writing, his upcoming projects and ideas as well as his opinions on films. He first started the blog to focus on his opinions about Canadian films and although he claims there are some really great material out there, he feels Canada really lacks the resources and helping to promote great Canadian content was the key.

Having a passion for writing at a young age, he wrote small scripts, plays and articles and was eventually published writing fiction online. The transition from writer to filmmaker occurred in 2011 with ``Old Scratch``, a short film that he says was a fictional story about when he was not getting any sleep due to his intolerable neighbors. Although having viewed the film, you can associate the situation amidst deeper issues embedded such as religion, self-sacrifice and clarity. Coming from a religious background, although not religious, it is a part of him and his self-discovery. It premiered at The Mascara and Popcorn film festival in Montreal. 

Having taking on a passion for film making most of 2012 to 2014 was focused on learning and gaining experience within the film industry. He has worked on numerous short films as first assistant director such as The Search, College and All Tied Up, co produced on the TV Series ``Just dating`` and wrote his own short ``Sophia``.  This comical short directed by Isaac Loveday is based on a play he wrote years ago.

He is currently releasing his upcoming short film, ``Le Carnivore`` which was just screened privately at Cinema du Parc.  The French short is about a girl coming face-to-face with her darkest fears, his interpretation of an individual coping with the horrors and monsters that surround us.  Staring Natasha Perry-Fagant (whom also was a lead in Euchre) and Angelo Vernucci, it will be travelling the festivals over the summer and will be available late fall. 

You can view all his credits and films at http://www.imdb.com/name/nm4823367/ as well as see his first film on his You Tube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp9J6bgSpXsqcdPvPH_SxMQ.

Born in Winnipeg, home schooled in the Prairies, he travelled across Canada and finally settled in Montreal.  Turning 30 this year, he lives with his wife whom is also an artist in her own right who sells handmade clothing and accessories ( https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/treder?ref=l2-shop-header-avatar ). A multi-talented artist who strives on being a visual story-teller, he is working hard to become a recognized player within the Montreal film scene.  He would eventually like to do a genuine web series, focus on longer forms of stories and hopefully one day get into feature films.  (Photo courtesy by Melanie May Taillon). 

Helping to support local artists on My Montreal Art and Fitness.  Follow on FACEBOOK , TWITTER, and GOOGLE + (Click on the name to follow and for updates!)

Get to know Aldo Villani

Born in Montreal with an Italian family background, Aldo grew up in the East end. He has been happily married well over 25 years and recalls one of his fondest memories was his performance to his wife on their wedding day. Having first stepped on stage at the age of 13 at a high school talent event, he quickly became addicted to performing live for an audience. Feeling such passion he attended Dawson`s Creative Arts Program as well as worked part time at the Penguin Theatre in Montreal. He remembers being young and excited about the prospect of being around the artists and the glamour of the theatre but that the craziness was a little too much for him and he opted in the direction of live bands.

He produced his first band ``Big Al and the Blue Notes`` which in turn led to performing for bands such as Rhythm Club and Heartbeat. For years he sang at weddings, corporate events, festivals and more engaging the audience with music from the 50`s to the 70`s. With shows at hotels such as the Crown Plaza and the Ritz, he has enthralled audiences with his powerful and mesmerising voice with classics by Elvis, Tom Jones and Engelbert Humperdinck. With a wide range and versatile repertoire his Crooner like Rock`n Roll style had him performing last year at the Car show at the Olympic Stadium. 


A regular at performing dinner shows, you can catch him around the city singing at Melrose, Il Ritrovo, Mundo Trattoria and in Laval at Studio 910. Along side Luc Barette from Groove-Line Entertainment, they combine an evening of live music and DJ entertainment for any event.

Recently he has been putting together his YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/user/BIGAL12690 where you can hear him cover songs not only in English but in Italian and French. Sometimes flashy, exciting and new is great but the older classics can bring back the happy memories related to those events that make a huge impact in our lives.

An all around great guy with talent, charisma and the elegance to perform with class and style. You can follow him on his Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/aldo.villani.

Helping to support local artists on My Montreal Art and Fitness.  Follow on FACEBOOK , TWITTER, and GOOGLE + (Click on the name to follow and for updates!)

Mike Paterson

Can you remember the class clown from high school, you know the goofy guy that was surrounded by a whole bunch of boys waiting for him to do something bizarre or crazy? I`m pretty sure that would have been Mike Paterson.

Today, he is an established television and film actor, writer and comedian. He has travelled all across Canada performing his stand up comedy and has been featured in sixteen Festivals for Just For Laughs and recently started performing for the Le Festival Just pour Rire. His recent commercial spots include La Cage aux Sports and Hydro Quebec and he has been featured in Crawler which was a Fantasia Film Festival favorite.

Born in Montreal, after high school, he attended the Dome Theatre to study acting which set off a whirlwind of writing, putting on plays, building theatres out of abandoned swimming pools and loving the Montreal art scene. In 1997, he joined a sketch troupe called Yikes and began writing and performing in comedy which led to his stand up comedy which he says has taken hold of his soul and won`t let go.

A multi talented man, he dabbles in in a series of outrageous music projects such as the ``Dan-D-Lyons`` a ``Musidy`` (a word combining music and comedy) which released a CD with songs entitled ``Testicle Tea``, ``Syrupy Kisses`` and ``God`s watching you make love``. If you love a cross between Weird Al Yankovic and Twisted Sister, you will want to hear his heavy metal band belt out ``Sex with Ghosts`` and ``Shampoo``. At the same time, you can catch him on the Disney Family Channel and he has written for YTV, CBC and Cartoon World. He will soon be on TeleToon staring in a new animated program called ``Toon Mart Marty`` which he plays Marty`s best friend Burnie. You can catch him on CBC`s children`s game show as `Mr. Gross the Grosser`` or watch his half-hour "Comedy Now" special that was filmed last year.

Such a diversity of character has led him to be a recognised as a well respected versatile, creative and entertaining artist. 

Happily married, he shares all his ideas with his wife whom he states is the one that keeps him focused and leveled and supports him in every part of the process. Recently, he joined Mike Ward on stage for the show "Smoking crack with Mike Ward". He says they have a lot in common, they are both vegetarians, they love comedy and both really love their wives. Mike Ward will be hosting the "Nasty Show" for Just for Laughs, http://www.hahaha.com/en/show/nasty-show-hosted-mike-ward.

You can get to know Mike Paterson more on his website at http://mikepaterson.ca/. He is a character willing to try anything, wrestle his way out of any situation and being as diverse as he is, he will find a way to make you laugh. Maybe sometimes being a little bizarre and crazy is not such a bad idea. If you would like to catch his stand up comedy, he will performing at Comedy Nest on April 2 to the 4th for the April Fool`s Show. You can get information at http://www.comedynest.com/montreal-comedy/april-2-4-april-fools/ .

Helping to support local artists on My Montreal Art and Fitness.  Follow on FACEBOOK , TWITTER, and GOOGLE + (Click on the name to follow and for updates!)

Hannah Franklin Art

Hannah Franklin (born Hannah Faier) was born in 1937 near Lublin, Poland and is a Montreal, Canadian sculptor and painter. Her family settled in Montreal after Emigrating to Canada in 1948. She attended the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts School of Design and graduated in 1967. To name just a few, her work is found in numerous public and private collections including the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec and the Canada Council Art Bank. She is a very well respected artist within her field and has been recognized for her contribution to contemporary art by Marquis, Who`s Who in American Art since 1981. Recently, I had the chance to join her at her home and studio to discuss her life long career as an artist.


Her artist statement is as real as the reflections I saw when I saw her art. ``In my work, I bring forth the themes of time, continuity and transcendence. I explore the landscapes of humanity through what is left behind - a photograph or memory. It is my attempt to express and to understand in the language of Western Art the immutable passage of time and the trajectory on human life``. Not only does she have an exquisite creative mind, she is a poet, a dancer and an all around kind, honest and wonderful person to be around.

I am always fascinated by someone that has such imagination and creativity. The world of painting and sculpting is a wonderment for me as I am but a mere novice but it`s something I respect, admire and consider a privilege to see. I believe art to be a lot like wine, it really is subject to taste. I fell in love with a lot of pieces in her contemporary abstract collection and fully understand how she has been in solo exhibitions for more than 30 years and that her work has been shown in Hungary, Basel, New York and all across Canada. She has spent decades sculpting, painting and creating such a diverse wonderful representation of her life and how she has seen the world. That is an artist!

I am honored that she let me take photos to share with you. Below you will see but a mere glimpse of her vast collection.

You can view her Wikipedia page at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hannah_Franklin. For more information or to purchase her work please contact hfranklin@aei.com.

　
Helping to support local artists on My Montreal Art and Fitness. 
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Make up as an Art with Laurie Frigon

The Greeks had a word for cosmetics, (kosmetikē tekhnē), meaning "technique of dress and ornament". From early civilizations to present day, even mentioned in the Old testament, found in Ancient Egypt and China, ways to beautify, alter appearances and cleanse the body have been part of our heritage for centuries. For performing artists, make up is a key essential to bringing to life the characters and situations. If you have ever seen a horror movie you know that one of the most important people behind the scenes is the make up artist. (Photo by Chloe Van Uytfanck)

Laurie Frigon is 25 years old and has been experimenting with make up and cosmetics since high school. With training from L`Académie Internationale Compétence Beauté in artistic make up and a DEP in interior decorating, she has always known that there would be a paint brush in her hand. She has worked on video clips, short films, weddings, fashion shows, theatre productions and for some major companies such as L`Opéra de Montréal, Canal Vox and Télé Québec. Although her passion lies in special effects and fantasy work, she recently worked at the Salon de l'Amour et de la Séduction and will be returning for belly painting at The Parents and Kids Fair at the Bonaventure http://www.salonmaternitepaterniteenfants.com/en/montreal. (Photo by Eva Maude)

If you are trying to be a working artist in Montreal, you understand how difficult it can be. Competition is fierce and work is limited. I admire and respect those that won`t sacrifice their art and that continue to strive to achieve their goals. She works hard, is creative and passionate about what she does and has the hope that one day she will work full time in cinema. From fashion and beauty to body painting and special effects, she is an artist at heart. 

If you know of anyone that is looking for a make up artist, you can view her full resume at http://www.lauriefrigon.daportfolio.com/. If you are worried, she only uses vegan products and is diligent and respectful as her motto is ``If I won`t put it on my face, I won`t put it on yours.``

Helping to support local artists on My Montreal Art & Fitness. Follow on FACEBOOK , TWITTER, and GOOGLE + (Click on the name to follow and for updates!)

Helping to support Montreal Artists - Kiara Palmer

As I mentioned, the idea behind My Montreal Art and Fitness is to not only promote but try and help others achieve their artistic goals. It`s already hard enough to be an artist and make money let alone being an artist when you are first starting. Lucky enough today, there are ways to support and promote. Programs like Go fund me http://www.gofundme.com/ help artists to achieve a goal whether it be to raise money to record an album, build a portfolio and/or in the case of Kiara Palmer, to raise money to produce her 3rd short film at Concordia University.

Kiara is 20 year`s old, a film production student and is trying to reach her $1200.00 goal to produce her narrative short film called Safe Harbour. The story is about those moments that we think define our happiness. The birthdays, the anniversaries, those moments that we picture as being the important mile stones of our existence as we hold on to the perfect picture moments of the ideal family. However, what looks perfect may not be and the moments we think are important usually end up being just the false illusions we have created in our own mind. This is the perception of life through the eyes of a five year old girl, Lucy (played by Montreal artist Sienna Mazzone). Also featuring is both Montreal artists Matt Keyes who plays the role of Oliver in the film. He is known for Lamb (2013), In sickness (2014) and Willed to Kill (2012) and Leigh Ann Taylor who plays the role of Elizabeth. She is known for I'm Not There (2007), Who Lives There? (2014), and the tv series, Being Human (2014).

Kiara is originally from Halifax, Nova Scotia and is the eldest child from an artistic family. She got her first camera when she was 12 and developed a love for filming and editing. She is a second year student at Concordia, wrote the script and is directing, producing and promoting. Already, that`s a pretty good resume for someone starting a career. Her second short film Dixon, (which you can view tomorrow night February 20th at 7:00 on my Facebook page) is the creative expression of how someone can feel when faced with the constant badgering, complaints, disappointments and ridicule. Experimenting issues from a young creative mind. 

If you would like to support her, you can donate at http://www.gofundme.com/kiarapalmer and receive credit for the film. This crowd funding campaign helps support many Montreal artists as well as helps build a creative support for not only the actors and crew but rewards Montreal by helping the audience understand the creativity of short films and the creative minds of the next generation.



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The Underground Comedy Railroad in Montreal

　
 

The original Underground Railroad was used in the 19th century to escape to free states and Canada. Thousands were saved through the use of passages, secret routes and safe houses and it gave freedom and opportunity to oppressed African Americans . In dedication, The Underground Comedy Railroad tour is the voice of black Canadians and this February which coincides with Black History Month, will play in cities across Canada. With accomplished Canadian Comedians who are truly outstanding homegrown celebrities, it will offer a remarkable perspective which is uniquely Canadian. Playing in Montreal from February 19th to the 21st at the Comedy Works , it will feature out of town comedians Daniel Woodrow, Keesha Brownie, Patrick Haye and from Montreal, the creator of the show Rodney Ramsey and Andrew Searles.

Rodney Ramsey represented Montreal in the Just for Laughs home grown competition, which premiered on City TV’s in House comics. He also performed on The Debaters which was aired on CBC radio and broadcast across Canada. While living in Toronto he was published in The Toronto Star newspaper for winning the best Obama joke contest and performed with Second City’s "The Bench". In 2013, he wrote and performed on CBC’s "This hour has 22 Minutes" and also starred in the new dark comedy series "24 hour Rental". Rodney’s charming persona and ultra-magnetic stage presence make for a great comedian to watch now and in the years to come.

After grossing the highest weekend ever at the Saint-Catherine Theatre with his show ``C`est Moi! C`est Chocolat``, Andrew Searles is one of the fastest rising stars on the Montreal Comedy Scene. He was nominated "Top 10 Best Stand-up Comedians in Montreal" four years straight by the Montreal Mirror. He has worked with the likes of Russell Peters and Sugar Sammy and debuted on his own comedy special in 2013 on National television for the new Canadian stand-up comedy show ``No Kidding`` . A favorite at the Colleges & Universities in Montreal, he can also be seen at comedy Clubs across Canada, a really charming and friendly guy that is talented, dedicated and entertaining to be around. (Note - Andrew Searles is only performing the 19 & 21st, and will NOT be performing on both shows Friday 20th due to prior commitments.)

You can visit their website at http://undergroundcomedyrailroad.com/ or visit the Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/events/326966904174317/?ref_dashboard_filter=upcoming. Don`t miss a chance to support local Montreal talent and enjoy a great night laughing.

Adult ballet classes with Sheila Lawrence

I grew up in ballet which makes me very grateful that I learned a technique that has helped me to love and appreciate all forms of dance. I still believe today that it is fundamental as it teaches the core of movement, flexibility and precision. It is a highly technical form of dance and requires years of training to learn and master. It was not always my favorite class as I preferred music that made me bounce, jump or slide but I would not be the dancer I am today without the discipline dedication required by ballet. I returned to taking ballet classes once in a while in the last few years and I still greatly benefit from it.

Sheila Lawrence danced professionally with les Ballet Chiriaff (which is now known as Les Grands Ballets Canadian) under the direction of Ludmilla Chiriaeff whom is a legend in her own right in regards to development of Ballet in Quebec. Formally trained in Ottawa as well as in England, she is a respected ballet and jazz choreographer. She is a teacher as well as mother and grand-mother and has dedicated her life to the love of ballet and jazz dance. Having choreographed and/or taught at L`Ecole Superieure de Danse, Ballet Ouest, Les Ballets Jazz de Montreal, to mention a few, she has also produced, directed and choreographed two full productions presented at the Centaur Theatre. A woman of dedication and passion, she has lived dance all her life.

If you are looking at taking adult classes, she has a drop in class ($15.00) on Mondays and Wednesdays from 9:15 - 10:45 at 1090 Greene Avenue for intermediate to advanced dancers or you can join her at the Victoria Hall in Westmount http://westmount.org/victoria-hall-community-centre/  in the evenings for a beginner or intermediate class. If you register, classes are $12.00 per class, an exceptional price for the technique and training you will receive for this 1h30m class. It is a great way to get back into shape if you love pushing limits, technical training and appreciate classical music. I drop in periodically so feel free to let me know if you decide to take a class, I would love to see you there! (Photos courtesy of Sheila Lawrence)

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Joey the Saxman

As the once famous Steve Lacy said, ``the potential for the saxophone is unlimited``.   It`s a shame that today the saxophone is not considered an instrument of choice, it`s heart wrenching to think that such an extravagant instrument may become a dying breed.

The saxophone family was invented by the Belgian instrument maker Adolphe Sax in 1840. Commonly used in classical music, military and marching bands, it is the one of the signature sounds of jazz. Exploding in America, the saxophone`s popularity was embraced by Vaudeville audiences that appreciated the sax`s comical tones and by dancers that would swing to the sound of big bands. Every musical genre has been embraced by the sound of the sax; Bebop, rock and roll, classical and experimental. The sound having a voice like quality, can make us laugh, cry and dream.(Photo courtesy of David Betito.)

Joey ``the Saxman`` Bolusi, is a Montreal Saxophonist whom first started playing when he was 10 years old. Having been struck by the sound, the look and feel of the instrument, he sacrificed and dedicated his time and energy to learning and playing the instrument that he describes as the sound that melts your soul. With a disciplined theory, he began performing in high school and by the age of 13 had already performed with a 32 piece band. He plays solo or as a duo at numerous amount of weddings and corporate events, plays with The Mother Jones Band and along side the very talented Lorraine Klaasen http://www.lorraineklaasen.com/ whom just received the Singer/Songwriter of the year award at the 2014 Socan Awards.

I asked him why he thinks the instrument is not as popular as it used to be.

``Today's generation wants quick and fast results as opposed to taking the time to fully learn the theory and technique. Playing an instrument is hard work and it has to be a passion. Between children having their noses pointed at their phones and playing on the Internet, the quality of time is spent less and less on the discipline it requires to be a great instrument player.``

Although having taught his sons how to play at a very young age, he has recently started teaching. You can contact him at joeythesaxman@hotmail.com and/or visit his Reverbnation Site at http://www.reverbnation.com/fan/joeythesaxman.

You can see him playing solo live at the Crown Plaza on February 7th for `` Night of Elegance`` or on April 18th at the Embassy Plaza in Laval for ``Generation IV``. This Montreal old school revival tribute and charity reunion will help support Sun Youth`s child find program. With four generations of music and performances by The Hi-Fins, Calypso Time, the Snooksta and many more, it will be an elegant evening and reunion for a good cause. Visit their website at https://www.mosrt.ca/.

Hopefully the next generation will learn and appreciate the beauty and charm of the saxophone before it disappears. His son, whom also plays the jazz saxophone at Vanier college and has recently won an award will hopefully lead by example.        

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Rage dance classes with Danielle Hubbard

The great thing about trying different classes and programs is that you get to experience physical fitness through different forms of exercises to see what works for your body as well as your goals. If you haven`t found one class in particular that you like, try a few and see what works best for you. Each instructor is different and although they may teach the same form of fitness; jazz, Zumba fitness, aerobics, etc, not all the classes will resemble each other solely based on the name. Music plays a big significant part when you are taking a dance class. Some like Latin, pop, techno, etc, it really depends on what makes you move. If you don`t enjoy the music, chances are, you won`t enjoy the dance class.

Rage dance class is an original concept given by Danielle Hubbard, who in her own right, is a very creative, talented and dedicated professional artist. It is a fast paced cardiovascular work out with a twist. Based mostly on jazz and contemporary dance, her movements are a little wild, a little crazy and albeit very demanding, a whole lot of fun. If you like 80`s music, funk, rock, even a small twist of metal, you will love her choreography and style. Incorporating stretching, jumping (bring your running shoes, the impact on the ground is harsh if you are not used to being bare foot) and a base core work out, this is an all around great class to work all parts of your body. Her energy is intense, original and addictive.

A graduate of the Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology, Danielle is a UDA member and has worked as a professional independent artist since 1997. With an extensive background in ballet, contemporary, arial hoop and fire dancing, she teaches at Concordia University, is an actress, vocalist and choreographer. Her gothic underground mesmerising style has lead her to perform 10 years for the EXOS performing project, 300 the movie, CQ2 in a leading role and as vocalist for Muruka, a tribal hard core metal band. On a contemporary side, she was soloist at the ballet ``Giselle``, a Danse Brouhaha production that played at Place des Arts and taught at the Shayda ballet company (Dir. Michelle Danesh). (Photo courtesy of Colombe Photographe and make up by Joffrey Dumas.)

If you are looking for a ballet/contemporary teacher she should definitely be on your list or you can try her Rage classes given downtown by contacting her at daninahubbard@gmail.com or on her Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Ragedanceclass.
(Photo courtesy of Bianca Black)

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Start the year laughing with Guido Cocomello

Recently I had a chat with Guido Cocomello regarding his upcoming one man show that will be playing at the Hudson Theatre on January 17, 2015. If you are looking at starting the year off with a laugh, it`s a cute place with a quaint little city and Cunningham`s has offered a drink on the house if you stop by after the show (bring your ticket).

If you did not know, Guido Cocomello is a trilingual Italian born stand-up comedian, actor and performer born in Montreal, QC. He grew up in St-Laurent area and has been a frequent entertainer in and around the Montreal area as well as in Ottawa, Toronto and Vancouver. Having done several movies, including A Dennis the Menace Christmas, he has made appearances in both film and television on NBC, CBC, CTV and YTV. He has performed in five Centaur Theatre productions, including in 2013, playwright Steve Galluccio`s play, The St. Leonard Chronicles. He began in 2009 taking comedy classes given by Joey Ellias, the host of The Comedy Show, which airs on Montreal`s 800 CJAD radio. With the help of the late comedian, Jocko Alston, he began booking local shows and between the love of theatre and stand-up comedy, he discovered that being in front of a live audience is what he wanted to do. (Photo courtesy Reese Turner) 

The last time I saw your comedy you had just gotten married and had a child. That must have been a life changing time?
Becoming a father changes you. I remember being really panicked about the whole situation. Going from someone that had no responsibilities to being a new father is always scary but my son makes me a better person.

How do you think that changed your stand up comedy?
Having a child is the best motivation for being more disciplined and serious. I write everyday, I am more focused and I love that he inspires me.

What will we see at the Hudson Theatre?
My stand up comedy is about my experiences. I tell it like I lived it, it's a no holds barred account of my life, nothing is off limits. Being a father today and how it was when I was single, about fidelity and the ups and downs of life, I am honest about who I am. My aim is to make people laugh while giving them a glimpse of what I've lived and learned. It`s a stepping stone to the next part of my stand up career.

You made your European debut in November 2013 in "Crisi d'Identita", how was that?
It was different and I was nervous. It was more on a theatrical level than a stand-up comedy routine but it was a great experience. Growing up in Montreal, I frequently heard "you sound so Italian", over there, I was the Canadian Italian that didn't really sound Italian. It's a different culture and a different way of life and I learned a lot about myself.

One of the best shows and why?
The comedy Soprano show that I performed at Theatre of the Leonardo Da Vinci Centre in St-Leonard. My parents and friends were there to support me and it was that moment of clarity when I realised that this is exactly what I should be doing.

What do you think is the hardest part about being a standup comedian?
To not let a bad show define you. To get over and move on.

Some of your favorite places in and around the Montreal area?
My Sunday morning swim with my son and when I have time to relax, at DiFranco`s in Old Montreal, a nice Italian restaurant. Occasionally, you can find me at Woo-Hoo`s in Vaudreuil, coolest kid hang out.

If you are up for a night of laughter, you can buy tickets at http://www.villagetheatre.ca/Show/186.aspx. He will also be at the Centaur theatre from March 24, 2015 to April 19, 2014 playing in ``The Envelope``, by Vittorio Rossi. http://www.centaurtheatre.com/theenvelope.php .

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MU Art - Help Transform Montreal into an open air art gallery

Montreal is a beautiful city but you have to admit that there are a few of the old buildings, underground passages and road walls that could use the help of MU to transform them. 

When I took the class at Les Grands Ballets which is next to Jarry Metro, I noticed the art and was completely mesmerised by the colors and brightness it gave to a place that once lacked any kind of imagination.   What a difference it made!  Labrose, the graffiti artist took a space and transformed it into something beautiful and admiring to see.

I think the projects do benefit greatly the city not only by enhancing the look but by providing income to artists (more than 850k since 2007).  They have had direct involvement with 5000 young people via school, after school, extracurricular and community youth organizations and have created more than 60 jobs for the next artistic generation.  They are always on the lookout for talented artists so don`t hesitate to send your CV and portfolio.  If you would like to donate your time, MU is a small charitable non-profit organization that can always use and appreciate gifted individuals (graphic artists, translation, photography, video, etc.).

The MU vision is ``to bring new life to the walls of the city with murals that are vibrant, eclectic and diversified, evoking emotions on every street corner and allowing us to see Montreal in a different light``.  Please visit their website at http://www.mumtl.org/en/ .  Please help support Montreal Artists!

 

Femme Chakra & Friends: Nov 8, 2013 - Monument National

Mark your calendar for November 8th, what a night this will be!!!  I strongly believe that the best nights out are the ones when you are surrounded by friends, the music is great and the laughter is flowing. Come and enjoy an intimate evening with me as I introduce some of my original songs along side some really great comedians.  You can visit the invite on Facebook by clicking here:  https://www.facebook.com/events/500105103416808/?ref_dashboard_filter=upcoming. 

After grossing the highest weekend ever at the Saint-Catherine Theatre with his show ``C`est Moi! C`est Chocolat`` in March, Andrew Searles will have you laughing up a storm at this one evening event. Discussing topics from his childhood to life in school, to romance, to his ethnic background of growing up in Canada, he will prove why he was nominated   “Top 10 Best Stand-up Comedians in Montreal” four years straight by the Montreal Mirror.  He has worked with the likes of Russell Peters and Sugar Sammy and recently debuted on his own comedy special in 2013 on National television for the new Canadian stand-up comedy show ``No Kidding`` .  You definitely do not want to miss one of the fastest rising stars on the Montreal Comedy Scene. 

Heavy T aka Tony Riccio is a loved and respected up and coming comic from the St-Leonard district. Recently interviewed on WOPTalk TV, his upbeat quick wit humor made him the winner at the Boom event at the Comedy Works in 2013 and had him featured on the show the ``BadFellas of Comedy``.  Performing alongside Guido Cocomello and Ali Hassan at the sold out show ``Homegrown Comedy Vol.1``, he proved that not only is he extremely funny but he is on his way to being recognized as a great promoter and organizer of comedy events in and around the Montreal area. Come and see why a night with Heavy T is never forgotten. 

Originally from Minnesota, Kate Conner, in the summer of 2011 took the plunge onto the stage and into the Montreal spot light.  With a thriving YouTube channel, she can be found performing at a wide variety of different venues, including The Comedy Works and The Comedy Nest.  As a mother of three girls and one boy, she is the producer of the ``3 Min Comedy Workout`` show, the ``Funny Side of Parenting``.  You don`t want to miss this "take no prisoners" approach to comedy (and to life) as she exposes her twisted view of the world through her relationship with her husband and her kids.

Tickets are on sale at the Monument National, click here: http://www.monumentnational.com/en/calendar/details/femme-chakra-and-friends/.  I do have a few available tickets but please let me know as soon as possible as there is limited seating.  Can`t wait to see you there!!!

 

Click here to visit Supporting Montreal Merchants :

http://www.holistictrainingandphysio.com/

 

Andrew Searles - C`est Moi! C`est Chocolat!

With 17 shows coming up in the March for the Hudson Music Club production of Oklahoma, I highly doubt I will have the time or the energy to see or do anything but sleep, eat and perform (lol).  I am looking forward to celebrating my birthday in March with some great friends and a well deserved dinner and night out. 

We will be heading out to see Andrew Searles new show,C`est Moi! C`est Chocolat!  Just recently on CTV for the promotion of the show ``The Underground Railroad``, an all black Canadian Comedy Tour, he will be headlining the St-Catherine Theatre from March 28^th to March 30th.  Alongside Guido Cocomello and Rodney Ramsey and hosted by funny man Franco Taddeo, I am looking forward to a night of fun, craziness and a whole bunch of laughter. Having met Andrew last year at Heavy T`s Comedy Competition, I had a chance to sit down and chat.       

How did you know you wanted to be a comedian?

I was doing a show at John Abbott College when I was hit with an epiphany, I realized that I love making people laugh.  I think it`s the excitement, the touring, meeting new people, it all incorporates in the rush that I get when I am on stage.  My first standing ovation was when I was doing a show at Carleton University; you never forget your first.  The motivation you get from the appreciation of others is what makes it all worthwhile.

Who has motivated you or inspired you as a comedian?

Growing up in Pierrefonds, Quebec, with the diversity and the language, Sugar Sammy was an inspiration as he did not let the boundaries of the language issue stop him from being a success.  It gave me hope especially when you know someone that started with the same background can achieve such recognition.  If he can do it, I am hoping I can do the same.  I was also influenced by Russell Peters and Dave Chappelle, being young and having a diverse ethnicity, I could relate to them.

Some of your favorite stand-up comedy clubs in Montreal?
The Comedy Works and Comedy Nest are essential when starting off doing comedy; some great names have passed through those doors.  Outside of Montreal, I frequently perform at Ottawa`s Absolute Comedy.  

One of the worst shows you performed and why?

I was doing a fundraiser and nobody was paying any attention.  It`s a horrible feeling being ignored when you are performing especially when you put so much effort into your craft.  The final blow came when I was insulted by one of the guest, sometimes you need to be made of steel when being an entertainer.  There will always be some idiot that has nothing better to do than belittle people.  You take it in stride and move on.

What are some of your favorite places in Montreal?

I’m really not a club or bar kind of guy unless I am performing; I prefer taking a walk in the Old Port of Montreal, walking around Mount Royal or just hanging out with friends. I enjoy a really good meal and when i`m around the Cote des Neiges area I always stop by Rayan restaurant, a great seafood place, their shrimp are amazing.

What are we going to see at the show ``C'est moi!, C'est chocolat!``?

I try very hard to incorporate my own personal experiences when performing.  The places that I`ve worked, my personal relationships, taking those situations and turning them into something humerous is the idea behind ``C`est Moi!, C`est Chocolat!``. 

A big thanks to Andrew for taking his time for the blog and for being such a great sport about it.  Ladies, he is single but don`t expect a bad boy, he is the real deal, sweet and charming. The tickets are bought and we are all set for an evening of fun. For anyone else looking for a night of laughter, you can purchase your tickets at: http://theatresaintecatherine.com/en/shows/andrew-searles-is-cest-moi-cest-chocolat