Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Comedy on the Edge

A play about a dysfunctional family? Nothing new about that. In this family, however, things are just a little different. For one thing, the year is 1183 AD; and for another, these family members are English royalty (with a French king and his sister thrown in for good measure).

Welcome to James Goldman’s The Lion in Winter, where Henry II dukes it out with his estranged and rich queen, Eleanor of Aquitaine, along with their scheming sons, John, Geoffrey and Richard (yes, that’s the Lionhearted one). There’s plenty of psychological weaponry here, but also plenty of potential knife-play, imprisonment, decapitation, warfare and banishment: all the fun toys that royals like to play with.

And play they do, with plots and counter-plots, witty dialogue, threats, lies and betrayals, all worthy of the Bard himself. But they also engage in very Shakespearean moments of biting humor, emotional beauty and endearment that we have grown to cherish.

Henry, Eleanor, and their twisted offspring are ancient historical figures from the distant past. But they remind us of people we know. They are, in a word, accessible; and quite potently so. They speak in modern language -- embellished with a few contemporary metaphors and random anachronisms along with smart alliteration and clever descriptions of each other—so that we can readily identify with them, and even care about them. We also get to chuckle and laugh at them, an excellent way to develop an understanding of ourselves in the process.

The play takes place on Christmas Eve for a family get together. Henry allows Eleanor one day out of prison for the Sacred Holiday. (Yes, she’s been there for ten years). This offers her the opportunity to plot against him once more with the help of her favored son, Richard. Yes, Richard is an ambitious warrior who is willing to go along with her ploys to grab everything he desires.

Geoffrey, the least favored, is “a device…he’s wheels and gears” always plotting with whoever has the advantage in order to gain power for himself and maybe become king after all have fallen. John, Daddy‘s favorite, is too indolent and a profligate to guard the advantages his father keeps planning for him. He’s always “ruining everything” and will “never learn”.

Throw in French Princess Alais, another attractive prize, and Richard wants everything for himself. But the King has other plans for Alais. Sounds familiar?

Curtain Call Theatre has assembled a fine cast of actors from its growing roster of talent: mavericks Mark Gregory and Gretchen Belgrave; add new comers to CCT John Rowan, Diz Struffles, Clay Matthews, Crystal Carpenter, and Jake Hamil; and you have a memorable and distinguished cast. 

Directed by Michael Tabib and stage managed by Joe Potter, The Lion In Winter opens April 14 and plays on weekends for eight performances only through April 29 at Russian River Hall, 20347 Hwy. 116, Monte Rio (one block East of Rio Theater). For reservations and dates call 707-524-8739.

Learn more about The Lion in Winter by visiting the website,  http://www.russianriverhall.com/2012/04/15/the-lion-in-winter/.

Thursday, April 12, 2012

Contra Costa County Environmental Stewards: Generation Green

Since 1990, Generation Green, a 501c3 nonprofit, has sought to inform and encourage environmental action in CCC. Generation Green has hosted dozens of workshops and attended countless events. Their efforts have reached all segments of the community. From local arts and crafts classes to attendance at City Council meetings—their goal is to educate all residents in the county about environmental issues.

Generation Green empowers its citizens to voice their concerns and implement earth saving actions. Through heightened awareness they encourage wise choices that ensure sustainable living and the preservation of the environment.

Programs Supported by Generation Green 

Dumpster Diversion 

Discover the process of creative reuse through arts and crafts with the Dumpster Diversion Project (DDP). This programs promote the principles of conservation, recycling and reuse. Children and adults of all ages can enjoy using unique materials to create amazing works of art! DDP facilitates the construction of trash to treasures: unusual arts/crafts pieces made from found objects. Participants easily learn that it is important to think before you toss anything away! 

The DDP also supply local artists and teachers with discarded materials for various projects. Recipients of DDP materials include the Early Childhood center of Martinez, the Martinez Arts Association, as well as the Boys and Girls Club of Martinez.

Green Rheem 

Periodic Green Rheem film nights are a chance to socialize with friends at the historical Rheem Theatre in Moraga, CA. Participants savor local wine and appetizers before the film and then watch an educational documentary.

Think Global, Eat, Drink and Shop Local. Attendees are introduced to local vendors for food and wine and learn about key issues facing the health of our community.

Contra Costa County Climate Leaders Program 

Local Governments are taking the lead to develop a livable community and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Contra Costa County (CCC). To facilitate, track and measure regional action, 4CL monitors activities, provides free resources and tools, and provides a multimedia communications strategy that ensures best practices are shared and implemented. Elected officials and staff receive a monthly newsletter, attend workshops and share successes on line.

Sustainable Schools Connection 

Sustainable Schools Connection goal is to create and support sustainability with youth by developing environmental stewardship and encouraging individual, campus and community involvement.

Red, White and Blues Celebration

Generation Green holds its annual Red, White and Blues event to help raise money for their non-profit. This event features local food and wine and is held in July each year. For more information or to be a part of the celebration, send an email to info@generationgreen.com

Reduce Reuse Respect

Reduce

The program aims to reduce our impact on earth. Generation Green will cultivate and promote environmental sustainability for a healthy livable planet through education and community outreach. They provide forums, sponsor events, workshops and classes to inform and support the public on the benefit and need for a sustainable, reusable, low impact, healthy lifestyle.

Reuse

Generation Green’s goal is to reuse our materials and to reduce ecological footprint on the planet. They accommodate reuse collection centers and participate/coordinate events for promoting creativity through art and education using recycled and reuse materials.

Respect

The goal is to respect our planet to regain our connection to the planet and to abundance. Generation Green assists education and consultation on healthy living within the community and share the work of other cultures.

These include:

thoughts for working with native traditions, cultures, working for the next seven generations.

work in Ghana - educating and assisting third world countries.

restoration - native plants and habitat restoration, removing invasives.

conservation work - saving teaks, open space lands etc.
herbal medicine folklore and information and materials.

Links to education materials.

To get updates about Generation Green events and activities visit the website, http://generationgreen.com/  . Call 925-708-9686 for more inquiries.