Two Broadway shows at the Winspear

edited by Madelyn Miller, the TravelLady

“Best Musical of the Decade” and 5-time Tony Award Nominee Both Make Their Dallas Debut as part of the AT&T Performing Arts Center’s Lexus Broadway Series

Two of the most popular and award-winning Broadway shows currently on tour. Billy Elliot The Musical-with music by Sir Elton John and Rock of Ages, a musical comedy featuring hit songs from the 1980’s are coming to Dallas

Both shows feature recognizable actors in leading roles: Billy Elliot features TV and Broadway actress Faith Prince, and Rock of Agesfeatures American Idol finalist Constantine Maroulis.

Performances of Rock of Ages will run from May 17 through May 29 and Billy Elliot The Musical will run from June 8 through June 19. Both shows are part of the Center’s Lexus Broadway Series at the Winspear Opera House.



About Rock of Ages

Rock of Ages is a hilarious, feel-good love story told through the hit songs of iconic rockers Journey, Styx, REO Speedwagon, Foreigner, Pat Benatar, Whitesnake and many others. In 1987 on the Sunset Strip, a small town girl meets a big city dreamer in one of Los Angeles’ most legendary rock clubs and they fall in love to the greatest songs of the ‘80s.

Constantine Maroulis of American Idol fame will reprise his acclaimed performance as Drew in the first national tour of the 5-time Tony Awards nominated hit musical.
Rolling Stone magazine said: “Rock of Ages has found a perfect lead in Maroulis,” who was among the show’s Tony nominees.

Maroulis was a finalist on American Idol during its fourth season and went on to perform in numerous Broadway and Off-Broadway shows, including The Wedding Singer and Jacques Brel is Alive and Well and Living in Paris.

Rock of Ages opened April 7, 2009 at Broadway’s Brook Atkinson Theatre to critical acclaim. The production was nominated for Best Musical of 2009 and a New Line/Warner Bros. film of Rock of Ages is scheduled to be released later this year.

The show will run from May 17 through May 29 at the AT&T Performing Arts Center.

Performances of Rock of Ages will be at 8 p.m., Tuesdays through Fridays; 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturdays and 2 p.m. on Sundays. There will be additional performances on Sunday, May 22 at 7:30 p.m. and Wednesday, May 25 at 2:00 p.m.

Single ticket prices range from $25 to $150 with prime location orchestra seats available for $75 for select performances.

About Billy Elliot The Musical

Billy Elliot The Musical, featuring an original score by music legend Sir Elton John, is a joyous celebration of one boy’s journey to make his dream come true. Set in a small town, the story follows Billy as he stumbles out of the boxing ring and into a ballet class, discovering a surprising passion that inspires his family and his whole community.

Based on the international hit film, Billy Elliot is brought to life by a phenomenal cast, including Faith Prince, who has been dazzling Broadway audiences since she swept the theatre awards, winning The Tony, Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Awards for her performance as Adelaide in the revival of Guys and Dolls.

Faith guest starred on the Lifetime hit series, Drop Dead Diva, and also has appeared in guest starring roles this year on Ugly Betty,Medium and CSI. She had a recurring role for five seasons on Spin City and has appeared on Grey’s Anatomy, House, Monk and Law and Order.

Her other Broadway credits include The Little Mermaid, Bells are Ringing, Nick & Nora, Little Me, Noises Off and Jerome Robbins’ Broadway. She was nominated for Tony and Drama Desk Awards for her performances in Bells are Ringing and Jerome Robbins’ Broadway.

Billy Elliot The Musical was created by – director Stephen Daldry, choreographer Peter Darling and writer Lee Hall – along with music legend Elton John, who has written what the New York Post calls “His best score yet.”

Time Magazine has declared Billy Elliot “the best musical of the decade” and the show won 10 Tony Awards in 2009.

The show will run from June 8 through June 19 at the AT&T Performing Arts Center.

Performances of Billy Elliot The Musical will be at 8 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays; 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturdays, and 2 p.m. on Sundays. There will be additional performances on Sunday, June 12 at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, June 9 at 2 p.m. and Wednesday, June 15 at 2:00 p.m.

Single ticket prices range from $30 to $150 with prime location orchestra seats available for $90 for select performances.

Due to changes in national touring plans, the run of Billy Elliot The Musical has been shortened to a limited, two-week engagement at the AT&T Performing Arts Center with 16 performances.

Tickets can be purchased at www.attpac.org/broadway, by phone at 214.880.0202, or in person at the AT&T Performing Arts Center Box Office at the Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora Street (Monday through Saturday, 10 am – 6 pm; Sunday 11 am – 4 pm), or at the remote Box Office at Park Place Lexus Plano at 1025 Preston Road.


About the AT&T Performing Arts Center
Open since October 2009, the AT&T Performing Arts Center is a vibrant destination for entertainment in the heart of the downtown Dallas Arts District. The Center presents a variety of programs, including its Lexus Broadway Series, Brinker International Forum, JAZZ ROOTS and, in association with TITAS, contemporary dance and music, and other performances. The Center also provides performance space for The Dallas Opera, Dallas Theater Center, Dallas Black Dance Theatre and Anita N. Martinez Ballet Folklorico, in unparalleled venues set within a 10-acre urban park.

Madelyn Miller is travel and lifestyle editor who loves live theatre. Read her stories on www.travellady.com, www.carladynews.com, www.yogayaya.com, www.chocolateatlas.com, www.cocktailatlas.com, www.teaAtlas.com, www.coffeeatlas.com

Great thing to do after work this week

Diana DeGarmo ties up Michael Jenkins, boss at Dallas Summer Musicals


The First National Tour of
9 to 5: The Musical


Edited by Madelyn Miller, the TravelLady



The producers of 9 to 5: The Musical have announced the cast for the First National Tour, brought to the Music Hall at Fair Park by Dallas Summer Musicals, presented by Comerica Bank, May 18-29. Tickets, priced from $20-$85, are on sale now at The Box Office, 542 Preston Royal Shopping Center, or any Ticketmaster outlet; online at www.ticketmaster.com, or by calling 1-800-982-ARTS.

9 to 5: The Musical is a hilarious story of friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era. This is the story of three unlikely friends who conspire to take control of their company and learn there's nothing they can't do -- even in a man's world. Outrageous, thought-provoking and even a little romantic, 9 to 5: The Musical is about teaming up and taking care of business... it's about getting credit and getting even.

This new musical comedy, direct from Broadway, is based on the hit movie and features Dolly Parton's original hit title song along with her new Tony Award® and Grammy-nominated score. The book is by Patricia Resnick (co-writer of the original screenplay). The touring production
will be directed and choreographed by Tony nominated, Jeff Calhoun. "I met Dolly Parton as a chorus kid dancing in the film ‘The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas’ only a few years after ‘9 to 5’ was already a hit movie. It was a thrill to work with her then and an honor and privilege to be entrusted to direct and choreograph this exciting new tour of 9 to 5: The Musical” said Mr. Calhoun. The co–choreographer is Lisa Stevens, scenic design by Ken Foy, costume design by five time Tony Award® winner, William Ivey Long, lighting design by Tony Award® and Drama Desk Award winner, Ken Billington, sound design by Steve Kennedy, orchestrations by Bruce Coughlin music supervision by Stephen Oremus and casting by Telsey + Company.

9 to 5: The Musical is based on the 20th Century Fox Picture. The tour is produced by special arrangement with MUSIC THEATRE INTERNATIONAL and by Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, Fox Theatricals and Theatre Under The Stars. For more information, visit www.9to5themusical.com.


Starring DEE HOTY MAMIE PARRIS JOSEPH MAHOWALD, KRISTINE ZBORNIK and DIANA DEGARMO

Dee Hoty will play the role of Violet. She has earned three Tony nominations for her starring roles in Footloose, The Best Little Whorehouse Goes Public and The Will Rogers Follies. Dee starred on Broadway and in eight major U.S. cities as Donna Sheridan in Mamma Mia! Performing on and off-Broadway, she toured the country and has been involved in many pre-Broadway workshops. She has appeared in “Law & Order”, “Law & Order: Criminal Intent” and numerous television and film appearances.

The role of Judy will be played by Mamie Parris whose Broadway credits include the Tony-Nominated revival of Ragtime, 110 In the Shade and the Tony-winning musical The Drowsy Chaperone. She turned the road pink in the First National Tour of Legally Blonde the Musical, has sung with the Radio City Rockettes, toured with country music icon Kenny Rogers, and participated in over a dozen readings with students of the BMI-Lehman Engel Musical Theatre Workshop.

Joseph Mahowald is the unsuspecting Franklin Hart, Jr. Joseph has appeared on Broadway in title roles in Jekyll & Hyde, Javert in Les Miz and Chiefton O’Flaherty in The Pirate Queen. He has performed off-Broadway and in several national tours, was a soloist with major symphonies around the world and has been on all the NY soaps. Some of his extensive regional credits include being a founding member of the artistic company of Tennessee Repertory and appeared in leading roles in numerous productions.

Comic, actress and cabaret performer Kristine Zbornik has been cast for the role of Roz. Kristine performed on Broadway in A Catered Affair and Off-Broadway in Forbidden Broadway, Mama Mia and Man of LaMancha.

“American Idol” finalist, Diana DeGarmo has been cast in the role of Doralee Rhodes, made famous by the queen of country music and iconic songwriter, musician, movie star and entrepreneur Dolly Parton. Diana gained overnight fame, at age 16, as a runner-up on the third season of television’s No. 1 series, “American Idol”. Broadway credits include Hair, Hairspray and Brooklyn: The Musical and starred in the off-Broadway musical The Toxic Avenger. DeGarmo was born in Birmingham, AL, raised in Snellville, GA, and currently has a home and resides in Nashville where she continues to co-write and perform in and around the area.

Rounding out the cast is Jane Blass, Patrick Boyd, Paul Castree, Holly Davis, Janet Dickinson Madeleine Doherty, Marjorie Failoni, Gregg Goodbrod, K.J. Hippensteel, Jesse J.P. Johnson, Michelle Marmolejo, April Nixon, Ryah Nixon, Rick Pessagno, Wayne Schroder, Micah Shepard and Travis Waldschmidt.

The following shows are also part of the DSM 2011 season at the Music Hall at Fair Park. Pick A Packs that include any three DSM shows are still available, starting as low as $36. For more information, please visit www.dallassummermusicals.org.

STOMP, June 7-12, 2011. This one-week special returns to the Music Hall at Fair Park with new surprises! Explosive, provocative, sophisticated, sexy, and utterly unique, STOMP appeals to audiences of all ages.

MONTY PYTHON’S SPAMALOT, June 14-26, 2011. The second coming of Broadway’s #1 Musical Comedy Smash, called “A No-Holds-Barred Smash Hit” by The New Yorker. The funniest show on earth is back to taunt Dallas for a second time. Winner of the 2005 Tony® Award for Best Musical, SPAMALOT, the musical comedy sensation lovingly ripped off from the film classic “Monty Python and The Holy Grail,” now returns to spread laughter and cheer throughout the kingdom.

GUYS AND DOLLS, July 19-31, 2011. Big League Productions is proud to announce a sparkling new production of the timeless Broadway classic, GUYS AND DOLLS. Set in Damon Runyon’s mythical New York City, this oddball romantic comedy—considered by many to be the perfect musical comedy—soars with the spirit of Broadway as it introduces us to the cast of vivid characters who have become legends in the canon. The New York Times calls it “The show that defines Broadway dazzle!”

WEST SIDE STORY, October 4-23, 2011, is also the 2011 State Fair of Texas musical. More than fifty years ago one musical changed theater forever. Now it's back, and mesmerizing audiences once again. From the first note to the final breath, WEST SIDE STORY soars as the greatest love story of all time. Directed by David Saint, using Tony Award-winning librettist Arthur Laurents’ Broadway direction, WEST SIDE STORY remains as powerful, poignant and timely as ever. The new Broadway cast album of WEST SIDE STORY recently won the 2010 Grammy Award for Best Musical Show Album. The Bernstein and Sondheim score is considered to be one of Broadway's finest and features such classics of the American musical theatre as "Something's Coming," "Tonight," "America," "I Feel Pretty" and "Somewhere."

“So exciting IT MAKES YOU ACHE WITH PLEASURE” –John Lahr, The New Yorker

Season sponsors for Dallas Summer Musicals, presented by Comerica Bank, are The Dallas Morning News, WFAA TV Channel 8, American Airlines, and Texas Instruments. For more information about DSM, visit their website at www.dallassummermusicals.org or call (214) 421-5678.

Madelyn Miller is a travel and food writer who loves musicals. Read her stories on www.travellady.com, www.carladynews.com, www.yogaaya.com, www.chcocolateatlas.com, www.cocktailatlas.com, www.coffeeatlas.com, www.teaAtlas.com

This art show will make a big splash

HOTEL ZAZA’S ART HOUSE & SOCIAL GALLERY TO HOST ART SHOW ENTITLED “WET”

edited by Madelyn Miller, the TravelLady

Two Artists from Turner Carroll Gallery to Show “Water-Inspired” Artwork

Continuing their partnership, Hotel ZaZa has announced its third collaboration with Turner Carroll Gallery and Art Advisors to bring the next show to the Stay ZaZa Art House & Social Gallery. The show is titled “Wet” and will feature new works by painters Eric Zener and Conrad Kern. The exhibition featuring water-themed works of art will be open beginning May 18 and running through August 30, 2011.

The Stay ZaZa Art House & Social Gallery, located at 2400 McKinney Avenue, will be open to the public Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For private showings by appointment, please call (214) 912-7143.

“After the success of the last two shows by Turner Carroll, we are excited to see what the next show brings,” said Benji Homsey, president of Z Resorts Management and Development, LLC. “This partnership has proved to be an excellent use of the space in the Stay ZaZa Art House & Social Gallery. This event space has many uses, but hosting curated exhibitions by well-known artists definitely aligns with our vision for this creative extension to the hotel.”

Californian artist Eric Zener's paintings portray his fascination with water. Sunbathers, swimmers, children playing in the water, and the movement of the water itself, upon impact, are consistent Zener themes. The concepts of water as life-giving force, the place of first home, and as an element of energy are compelling aspects which preoccupy Zener.

“I use our relationship with water, nature and each other as a metaphor for transformation, refuge and renewal," said Zener.

Zener's paintings are the subject of a new, 250-page monograph. He will be present at the opening reception at the Stay ZaZa Art House & Social Gallery to sign the limited edition monographs. His paintings are also featured in the current exhibition at the Long Beach Museum of Art in California. Zener’s work has been exhibited internationally in Australia, Japan and Spain and is included in numerous corporate, private and museum collections. His work has been featured in the Robb Report, Juxtapoz, Art & Antiques, Travel & Leisure, New American Paintings, American Art Collector, New York Magazine, The San Francisco Chronicle and ArtNews Magazine.

Conrad Kern is a New Mexico artist. His color field paintings glisten with their layers of color and sheen. The Turner Carroll Gallery has coordinated large-scale public and privately commissioned works by each of these artists.

The Stay ZaZa Art House & Social Gallery is available for events such as art exhibits, business meetings, social events and many more. Private events may be scheduled for 16 to 150 guests. Through this venue, Hotel ZaZa is able to showcase its full-service hotel and catering services, while also offering creative freedom to the guest. For more information, or to book a meeting or event, please call (214) 468-8399 or visit hotelzazadallas.com.

For more information on purchasing the artists’ works, please contact Tonya Turner Carroll at the Turner Carroll Gallery at (505) 986-9800 or by email at tcgallery@aol.com.

Eric Zener
Pool Diver
mixed media on panel
41 x 34" (finished size)
2010


About Hotel ZaZa
Hotel ZaZa is a sensory experience that is refined yet relaxed. Its sophisticated and sensual interior design and culinary excellence is completed by a staff that pays impeccable attention to each and every guest, making them feel at home. Whether for business, a romantic weekend, or world-famous celebrities, both hotels blend intimate comfort with Stay ZaZa-style to create inspired accommodations, one-of-a-kind themed suites, and award-winning restaurants and spas.
Nestled in the fashionable Uptown neighborhood and next to downtown, Hotel ZaZa Dallas is a creative mix of warm, Mediterranean elegance and comfortable chic. This exceptional boutique hotel offers 4,500 square feet of function space, 152 rooms, 17 concept suites, the Magnificent Seven Suites, the award-winning Dragonfly Restaurant and Lounge, the relaxing ZaSpa and the Art House & Social Gallery. Reservations may be made at hotelzazadallas.com or by calling 888.880.3244.
Located in the heart of the vibrant Museum District and minutes from the world renowned Texas Medical Center, Hotel ZaZa Houston boasts 17,000 square feet of function space and is the perfect backdrop for any business meeting - not to mention home to some of Houston’s most memorable weddings and galas. Monarch Bistro and the tranquil ZaSpa combine to create the hotel’s breadth of impressive amenities. With more than 300 rooms, including Pool Villas, Concept Suites and The Magnificent Seven Suites, ZaZa exceeds all expectations. Reservations may be made at hotelzazahouston.com or by calling 888.880.3244.
Hotel ZaZa, a member of the Preferred Hotel Group™, was created by Charles S. Givens and Jeff Records and is owned by Givens-Records Developments. Operations management and marketing are provided by Z Resorts, LLC, led by Z Resorts President Benji Homsey.

Madelyn Miller is a travel and food writer who once studied at the Art INstitute of Chicago. She still draws like a very talented fourth grader. (Although a picture of a waterfall that she did hung in the museum for about a year)

Read her stories on www.travellady.com, www.carladynews.com, www.yogayaya.com, www.cocktailatlas.com, www.chocolateatlas.com, www.teaAtlas.com, www.coffeeatlas.com

Anyone love Pizza? this is your weekend

Grapevine Main Street Days – A Pizza Experience
May 13, 14 & 15


Edited by Madelyn Miller, the TravelLady

Attention foodies everywhere: you haven’t died and gone to heaven. Rather, Historic Downtown Grapevine is serving you slices of heaven on earth! Grapevine’s 27th Annual Main Street Days, A Pizza Experience, May 13, 14 & 15, celebrates this year one of America’s favorite foods accompanied by bountiful sides of live music, family fun, carnival rides, midway games and much, much more.





The official kick-off to summertime in Grapevine, Main Street Days invites visitors from near and far to spend the weekend in a city full of history, homegrown hospitality and outstanding tastes.

Did you know that American’s eat 100 acres of pizza a day? That’s 350 slices per second, according to the National Association of Pizza Operators. At the Main Street Days Pizza Piazza, guests will have a chance to sample fresh-baked pies from many local restaurants and vote for their favorite. Whether fans of New York-style thin crust or deep dish Chicago-style, there’ll be something to please all appetites at this year’s festival. Order a premium wine, a slice of your favorite pizza or perhaps an ice-cold craft beer and relax at a table “al fresco.” Enjoy the sounds of strolling musicians, and experience what Italians call “la dolce vita” - the sweet life.

Non-stop live entertainment is always a staple of Main Street Days. Whether it’s the party music of Greaseband, famous for their choice of Rock ‘n’ Roll favorites from the 50s through 90s, the Memphis-based pop rock trio Ingram Hill, the alternative Celtic Killdares, cover bands like Back in Black, or Hudson Moore who’s stirring the Austin music scene, this year’s lineup will have you dancing in the streets!

Of course, what festival is complete without favorite carnival foods like funnel cakes and corn dogs? Main Street Days vendors boast tasty treats to tempt all taste buds. The event also includes vintages from Grapevine and Texas, for those who want to sample homegrown wines, as well as wines from both the West Coast and Italy. If wine doesn’t satisfy your palate, then seek out any number of beer booths hosted by Budweiser. The ultimate resource for ice-cold drafts awaits you with an array of beers to quench your thirst. Craft beer lovers will find their epicenter around the gazebo, with brews on tap from Widmer, Red Hook, Kona and Real Ale Brewing Company.

Main Street Days organizers also invite you to come out and get your grill on! Serious backyard enthusiasts and pit masters can try their hand in the Central Market Grillin’ Competition. Six sessions will culminate in a championship grill off on Sunday afternoon. All contestants will compete using Big Green Egg grills provided by BBQ Outfitters Southlake. Session winners will receive a $100 gift card to Central Market and one Big Green Egg that they can pick up after the championship on Sunday. The Championship winner will receive an additional $500 gift card to Central Market. Registration and competition information is available at www.GrapevineTexasUSA.com/MainStreetDays/WF/Grill.

A variety of arts and crafts, exhilarating carnival rides presented by Time Warner Cable, and short runs on the Grapevine Vintage Railroad all await festival-goers. Children love the KidZone presented by Baylor Regional Medical Center of Grapevine, and shopping ‘til you drop is always an option. Whatever your desire, you’ll find it here in Grapevine.

Main Street Days, A Pizza Experience, will open on Friday, May 13 at 10 a.m., and as an added bonus, on Friday, admission is free to everyone until 5 p.m.! Hours are Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission prices are $7 for adults, and $5 for seniors (62+) and children (6-12). Weekend passes are available for $15 and souvenir weekend passes are $20. Admission is free for children five and under. Free shuttles run continuously from the free parking lots. For more information, please call 800-457-6338 or visit www.GrapevineTexasUSA.com/MainStreetDays.

Madelyn Miller is a travel and food writer who tries to never miss a pizza or a food festival. Read her stories on www.travellady.com, www.carladynews.com, www.yogayaya.com, www.chocolateatlas.com, www.cocktailatlas.com, www.teaAtlas.com, www.coffeeAtlas.com

Complexions Comtemporary Ballet plus a Bonus

May 13: Complexions Contemporary Ballet (presented by TITAS in association
with AT&T Performing Arts Center)

Complexions has been described as the future of contemporary ballet based on its
technique, virtuosity and cutting-edge choreography. The company, embracing diversity with 16 dancers of different ethnic and dance backgrounds, is pure excitement to watch.
With its dazzling range of work encompassing everything from big, dynamic ensembles to poignant duos and solos, this performance will have something for everyone.
Complexions was founded by two former Alvin Alley American Dance Theater stars, Desmond Richardson and Dwight Rhoden. The New York Times called Richardson “one of the great modern dancers of our time,” and Rhoden “one of the most sought-out choreographers of the day.”
Featured on the program will be the world premiere of a new work commissioned by TITAS.

At 6:45pm, this Friday, TITAS will present a pre-show conversation with the key artistic players in the TITAS commissioned work Testament having its world premiere Friday night at the Winspear Opera House. TITAS entered into a year-long residency with Complexions Contemporary Ballet to develop a work centered around old Negro Spirituals sung live and choreographed with a cutting edge contemporary ballet company. The work, already garnishing much international attention, will have its premiere on Friday and marks the beginning of a new initiative by TITAS to foster cultural collaborations and new works.

If you can't attend, this 40 minute talk will also be streamed live onto the Web and promises to provide insight into the creative process with one of the world's most interesting contemporary ballet companies.

What’s coming up Next

May 17 - 29: Rock of Ages (AT&T Performing Arts Center Lexus Broadway Series)Tony Award Nominee and “American Idol” finalist Constantine Maroulis reprises his acclaimed performance as Drew in the first national tour of the five-time Tony Award nominated smash hit musical, Rock of Ages.

Rock of Ages is a hilarious, feel-good love story told through the hit songs of iconic rockers Journey, Styx, REO Speedwagon, Foreigner, Pat Benatar, Whitesnake and many others. In 1987 on the Sunset Strip, a small town girl meets a big city dreamer at one of Los Angeles’ most legendary rock clubs and they fall in love to the greatest hits of the ‘80s.

Rolling Stone magazine said: “Rock of Ages has found a perfect lead in Maroulis.”
A New Line/Warner Bros. film of Rock of Ages is scheduled to be completed later
this year. Don’t miss this awesomely good story about dreaming big, playing loud and partying on.

Performances will be at 8 p.m., Tuesdays through Fridays; 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. on
Saturdays and 2 p.m. on Sundays. There will be additional performances on Sunday, May 22 at 7:30 p.m. and Wednesday, May 25 at 2 p.m. Tickets range from $25 to $150 with prime location orchestra seats available for $75 for select performances.

June 8 - 19: Billy Elliot The Musical (AT&T Performing Arts Center Lexus
Broadway Series)

Billy Elliot The Musical, featuring an original score by music legend Sir Elton John, is a joyous celebration of one boy’s journey to make his dream come true. Set in a small town, the story follows Billy as he stumbles out of the boxing ring and into ballet class, discovering a surprising passion that inspires his family and his whole community.

Thrilling audiences worldwide and winning 10 Tony Awards in 2009, including Best Musical, Billy Elliot The Musical has been called “The best show you will ever see” by the New York Post. This feel-good celebration of one boy’s triumph against all odds wins rave reviews wherever it plays. Ben Brantley of The New York Times said it was “the most inspiring show I’ve seen in years.”

Based on the international hit film, Billy Elliot is brought to life by a phenomenal cast, including Faith Prince, who has been dazzling Broadway audiences with her award winning performances.

Performances will be at 8 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays; 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturdays and 2 p.m. on Sundays. There will be additional performances on Sunday, June 12 at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, June 9 at 2 p.m. and Wednesday, June 15 at 2 p.m.

Single tickets prices range from $30 to $150 with prime location orchestra seats available for $90 for select performances.

Tickets for all of the shows can be purchased online at www.attpac.org, by phone at 214.880.0202, at the AT&T Performing Arts Center Box Office at the Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora Street (Monday through Saturday, 10 am – 6 pm; Sunday 11 am – 4m), or at the remote Box Office at Park Place Lexus Plano at 1025 Preston Road.

About the AT&T Performing Arts Center
Open since October 2009, the AT&T Performing Arts Center is a vibrant destination for entertainment in the heart of the downtown Dallas Arts District. The Center presents a variety of programs, including its Lexus Broadway Series, Brinker International Forum, JAZZ ROOTS and, in association with TITAS,
contemporary dance and music, and other performances. The Center also provides performance space for The Dallas Opera, Dallas Theater Center, Dallas Black Dance Theatre and Anita N. Martinez Ballet Folklorico, in unparalleled venues set within a 10-acre urban park.

The Dallas Fort Worth Lexus Dealer Association is the title sponsor of the Center’s Lexus Broadway Series. Lexus is the official vehicle of the Center and its resident companies, the official valet sponsor and the naming rights holder for the Center’s two underground parking areas.

Madelyn Miller is a travel and food writer who tries to attend every Titas performance when she is in town. Read her stories on www.travellady.com, www.carladynews.com, www.yogayaya.com, www.cocktailatlas.com, www.coffeeatlas.com, www.teaAtlas.com

calling all Cowboy Wannabees

Time Left To Buy
12:29:19
27 bought
Under 50 bought
A favorite of many famous folks, Wild Bill's has been completing Western wardrobes from hatted head to booted toe for more than 40 years. Wild Bill’s offers apparel for men and women, denimizing dudes in Wrangler jeans ($39.99) and wrapping lasses in Texan pride with a Ruddock button-down flag shirt ($49.99). Cotton chaps are supported by a selection of eye-catching belt buckles ($12.99–$19.99), and a Charlie 1 Horse Tulum hat ($39.99), made of brown distressed raffia with a turquoise chip band, boasts a crown with a pinch deep enough to stash a tinier hat. The shop also carries gifts and accessories, such as the cameo wine-bottle stoppers ($15.99), which prevent dud desecration by scaring off rival grape guzzlers.

The deal is on! Tipped at 9:36AM with 15 bought



The Fine Print
Expires Sep 11, 2011
Limit 1 per person, may buy 1 additional as a gift. Limit 1 per visit. Valid only for option purchased. In-store only. Not valid for sale items.
See the rules that apply to all deals.

Highlights
•Western apparel & gifts for men, women & children
•Handmade custom boots
•Wrangler, Stetson & Resistol
The original American ranchers switched from powdered wigs to cowboy hats after spooking the horses, which mistook their toupees for ghost hay. Celebrate functional fashion with today’s Groupon to Wild Bill’s Western Store on North Market Street. Choose between the following options:

•For $25, you get $50 worth of Western-themed apparel and gifts.
•For $50, you get $100 toward custom boots.


With the second option, dirtkickers remain distinctive with a pair of custom boots ($469+), handmade to measure with a steel arch for support and comfort. Dictate each detail, including material, color, stitch pattern, scallops, toes, heels, wingtip or foxing, inlay or cords, and additional personalization, such as initials, insignias, or memorial portraits of recently deceased boots.

Broadway Our Way

Uptown Players Presents Annual Broadway Our Way Fundraiser

Uptown Players continues its tenth season with its annual fundraiser Broadway Our Way: Divas Rising! running May 6 - 15, 2011. The Uptown divas return for another entertaining evening of Broadway music with plenty of twists, laughs and surprises.

This is the third year I have seen this show and it gets better every year

Providing host duties for this year's festivities will be the incredibly funny Paul J. Williams. This year’s divas will sing and dance to nearly 30 songs from new Broadway hits such as Sister Act The Musical, Memphis, Hairspray, Wicked and Thriller Live, as well as classic favorites like Chicago, Sweeney Todd, Sweet Charity and On The Town.

This year’s cast includes Michael Albee, Beth Albright, Lon Barrera, Kayla Carlyle, Coy Covington, Sergio Garcia, Carlos Gomez, Whitney Hennen, Drew Kelly, Summer Kenny, Natalie King, Jeff Kinman, Denise Lee, Linda Leonard, Kelly McCain, Chad Peterson, Darius Robinson, Thomas Renner, Sara Shelby-Martin, Amy Stevenson, Rick Starkweather, Angel Velasco and Wendy Welch. Broadway Our Way is written and directed by Andi Allen with music direction by Kevin Gunter and Adam Wright and choreography by Kelly McCain and Michael Albee.

The evening also features nearly 100 terrific auction prizes, including theatre tickets, restaurant gift certificates, hotel stays, artwork and much more. A reception follows each performance.The production runs May 6 through May 15, 2011, with shows at 8 p.m. on Thursday through Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Performances take place at the Kalita Humphreys Theater, 3636 Turtle Creek Blvd (entrance off Blackburn), Dallas, TX 75219. Tickets are $40, including the post-performance reception, and can be purchased online at www.uptownplayers.org or by phone at 214-219-2718.



About Uptown Players

Now in its tenth season, Uptown Players has gathered a dedicated following with an annual audience base of over 15,000 patrons, including nearly 1000 season subscribers. The response from the community and critics has been remarkable, including over 25 Leon Rabin Awards from the Dallas Theatre League, several hundred “The Column” Awards and 15 Theatre Critics Forum Awards in its first seven seasons. In recent years, Uptown Players has also been named the best theatre company by the Dallas Voice Readers Awards, and the Dallas Observer, and has appeared on the WFAA-A list and Best of Big D - D Magazine. Uptown Players is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization, presenting plays and musicals that challenge audiences artistically, build cultural bridges, and strive to create greater positive public awareness and acceptance through the performing arts. There is no other theater group with this unique mission in the Dallas area.

Madelyn Miller is a travel and food writer who tries to see every Uptown Players performance.
Read her stories on www.travellady.com, www.carladynews.com, www.yogayaya.com, www.cocktailatlas.com, www.chocolateatlas.com, www.coffeeatlas.com, www.teaAtlas.com

Electric Vehicles: Now you can get a big Charge in your neighborhood

First of 70 eVgosm Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in Dallas Ready to Charge

The nation’s first privately funded, comprehensive EV charging network now includes Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Interstate 45 connection with Houston is slated for 2012

NRG Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NRG) is bringing range confidence to electric vehicle (EV) owners in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex by commencing operations at the first privately funded, eVgosm (ee-vee-go) Freedom Station in Texas, including the first high-speed direct current (DC) charger in Texas that is among the first in the nation.

NRG plans to install a total of 70 Freedom Stations in Dallas/Fort Worth and 50 in Houston by the end of 2012, with half in place by this summer.

NRG also plans to electrify the Interstate 45 corridor connecting them in 2012.
The first eVgo Freedom Station is located at the Walgreens at 5201 Belt Line Road at Montfort Drive in Dallas.
Each Freedom StationSM provides a 480 volt DC fast charger that can add 30 miles of range in as little as 10 minutes and a 240 volt Level 2 charger that can add up to 25 miles of range in an hour.

Freedom Stations are available 24/7 and include a customer service tower with a mounted camera, giving customers access to an eVgo service representative or to activate a strobe light, sirenand alert law enforcement, even from inside their vehicles. The eVgo network will also include Convenience StationsSM that offer a 240 volt Level 2 charger and are available during the retail host’s business hours.

“Inaugurating the first Freedom Station in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex is a critical first step toward making electric vehicles the smart and convenient choice for Texans who want to reduce their cost of driving while contributing to cleaner air and America’s energy independence,” said David Crane, NRG President and CEO. “We’re taking a page from Southwest Airlines when they started
out 40 years ago to link the major population centers in Texas. This first station is the start of an ecosystem that will eventually give Texas EV owners the freedom to drive with range confidence throughout the region.”

“Thanks to the innovative spirit and hard work of folks at NRG and their eVgo partners, we’re closer to a day when electric cars will be a prominent feature on our roadways,” Governor Rick Perry said. “I’m proud of our efforts in Texas to foster an environment that frees the private sector to solve problems and meet challenges. Because we steer clear of crippling mandates and work to keep our
regulatory structures fair and predictable, Texas has created a favorable business climate that allows companies like NRG to provide the cutting-edge technology and products that will keep our state moving forward.”

EVs, powered by electricity generated from domestic fuels, including zero-emission wind and nuclear power in Texas, have the potential over time to reduce dramatically the ongoing transfer of American wealth to oil-producing nations. Transportation accounts for more than a quarter of America’s
greenhouse gas emissions and in most Texas cities, it is the largest single source of nitrogen oxides emissions.


“The North Central Texas Council of Governments is delighted that the first eVgo electric vehicle charging station is now operational in the Dallas/Fort Worth region with many more to come in the near future,” NCTCOG Executive Director Mike Eastland said. “In an area of 6.5 million people, air quality is always a primary concern. NRG’s eVgo network is a welcome complement to NCTCOG’s Electric Vehicles North Texas program, and we truly appreciate our public- and private-sector
partners that have been and continue to be instrumental in preparing the region for electric vehicles.

NRG will provide EV owners in eVgo cities with extremely convenient and affordable unlimited miles “home-and-away” charging plans with no upfront cost and a flat monthly fee. NRG will install and maintain the region’s charging infrastructure of home chargers and public fast charging stations conveniently located along major freeways and in key shopping and business districts.


“Electric vehicle ownership should be fun, affordable and convenient, with drivers having complete confidence that a fast charger is never more than a few miles away,” said Arun Banskota, President of NRG’s EV Services division.


NRG is working with the North Texas electricity transmission and distribution company Oncor on zone planning and site selection for the eVgo charging stations in the Metroplex to ensure accessibility and reliability.

“From our installation of more than a million and a half advanced meters to help customers better manage their electricity usage, to the construction of 850 miles of new transmission lines delivering renewable power, Oncor is a leader in making Texas the best place in America to drive plug-in vehicles,” said Jim Greer, Oncor’s Senior Vice President of Asset Management and Engineering. “By 2012, our investments will enable more than three million homes and businesses in Oncor’s service area to use electric vehicle charging technology, such as the NRG eVgo network, when renewable energy availability is highest and the cost of electricity is lowest, supported by the capabilities of Oncor’s advanced meters.”

eVgo Partners
The following companies are working with NRG to make the eVgo network a success:
• Auto Sales and Rental: Gulf States Toyota, Hertz, Mitsubishi Motors, Nissan North America, smart USA, VIA
• Charging Station Host: Best Buy Co., Inc., Crescent Real Estate, Gallery Furniture,
H-E-B/Central Market, Memorial City Mall, Park 'N Fly, Spec’s Family Partners, Walgreens
• Charging Technologies, Network Services and Smart Energy: AeroVironment, GE, Siemens
• Retail Electric Providers: Green Mountain Energy Company, Reliant Energy, TXU Energy
• Ready for EV (REV) Host: Huffines Communities

For more about eVgo partners, visit https://www.evgonetwork.com/About_Us/Partners/

Madelyn Miller is travel and automotive writer who has been able to drive the Volt and a Prius electric prototype.

Read her stories on www.travelLady.com, www.carladynews.com, www.yogayaya.com, www.chocolateatlas.com, www.cocktailatlas.com, www.coffeeatlas.com, and www.teaAtlas.com

The last picture my camera ever took

Spent a long weekend in Cabo at the Starwood properties. While at the gorgeous The Westin Resort & Spa, Los Cabos I took zillions of pictures from different angles or the pools, flowers, beach and architecture. The first night when I saw the hotel lit up, I had to get a picture. I took this picture and realized I wanted to get closer.

I took a step forward without looking down.

If I had, I would have seen the reflection pool.

So I stepped right into the pool.

The staff fished me out quickly and wrapped me and my stuff in towels. The camera died. Any suggestions for what to do with a wet camera? The battery still charges.

BURN THE FLOOR

Edited by Madelyn Miller


BURN THE FLOOR WALTZES INTO NORTH TEXAS
PRESENTED BY DALLAS SUMMER MUSICALS
APRIL 5-17, 2011
AT THE MUSIC HALL AT FAIR PARK

Years before “Dancing with the Stars” and “So You Think You Can Dance” turned ballroom dancing into must-see TV, one sizzling show was setting stages ablaze around the globe. BURN THE FLOOR, the electrifying Latin and Ballroom dance spectacular that has thrilled audiences in more than 30 countries, brings the fire and passion of their live performance to the Music Hall at Fair Park stage in Dallas for two weeks only, Tuesday, April 5 through Sunday, April 17, 2011

FEATURING ANYA GARNIS, PASHA KOVALEV, ROBBIE KMETONI, JANETTE MANRARA AND KAREN HAUER FROM TV’S “SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE”ALSO FEATURING VONZELL SOLOMON FROM “AMERICAN IDOL”

BURN THE FLOOR is coming to North Texas, direct from Broadway. Brought by Dallas Summer Musicals, Inc. (DSM), presented by Comerica Bank, the tour features “So You Think You Can Dance” alums Anya Garnis, Pasha Kovalev, Robbie Kmetoni, Janette Manrara and Karen Hauer. All five have been seen on TV’s “So You Think You Can Dance,” in the US (Anya & Pasha, Top 10 Finalists and Season 7 All Stars; Janette Manrara and Karen Hauer, Top 10 Finalists) and Australia (Robbie Kmetoni, 2010 Winner). Also featured is Vonzell Solomon as the show’s female vocalist. Vonzell was the second runner-up in the 4th season of “American Idol.”
Tickets are on sale now at The Box Office, 542 Preston Royal Shopping Center, or any Ticketmaster outlet. Tickets, priced from $15-$75, are also available by calling 1-800-982-ARTS, or online at www.ticketmaster.com. For groups of 15 or more, call 214-426-GROUP.

With BURN THE FLOOR, you will feel, live on stage, all the passion, drama and sizzling excitement of 20 gorgeous champion dancers in a true theatrical experience, a performance with a grace and athleticism that The New York Times calls "Dazzling!" The Times (London) calls it “the summer’s hottest ticket”!

From Harlem's hot nights at The Savoy, where dances such as the Lindy, Foxtrot and Charleston were born, to the Latin Quarter where the Cha-Cha, Rumba and Salsa steamed up the stage, BURN THE FLOOR takes audiences on a journey through the passionate drama of dance.
The elegance of the Viennese Waltz, the exuberance of the Jive, the intensity of the Paso Doble - audiences will experience them all, as well as the Tango, Samba, Mambo, Quickstep and Swing.
BURN THE FLOOR is directed and choreographed by Jason Gilkison.

Featured Dancers:

ANYA GARNIS (Dancer). Original Burn the Floor Broadway & West End cast member. On the TV show “SYTYCD,” Anya was handed a first-class ticket on the “Hot Tamale Train,” and her career has been sizzling ever since. Guest dancer on “Dancing with the Stars,” “Superstars of Dance” and the Academy Awards. Born in Latvia, she has been a ballroom superstar for the last ten years. “SYTYCD” season 7 as an All-Star professional this summer.

PASHA KOVALEV (Dancer). Original Burn the Floor Broadway & West End cast member. Born in Siberia, Russia, Pasha started dancing at age 8. Following a successful career in ballroom competition, he has appeared on many TV shows including “So You Think You Can Dance”, “Dancing with the Stars”, and “Superstars of Dance”. “SYTYCD” season 7 as an All-Star professional this summer.

ROBBIE KMETONI (Dancer). Original Burn the Floor West End cast member. Robbie won season 3 of “So You Think You Can Dance” (Australia) at only 19. Specializing in Contemporary, Robbie is a versatile dancer having studied a wide variety of different styles, including Ballet, Jazz and Hip Hop with Brent Street, Sydney Dance Company and Alvin Ailey. He has made numerous television appearances and performed at dance festivals across Australia and in the U.S. Robbie is thrilled to be making his professional touring debut with Jason Gilkison and Burn the Floor on the West End and U.S. tour.

JANETTE MANRARA (Dancer). Original Burn the Floor West End cast member. Janette began musical theatre at age 12 and formal dance training at 19, studying Ballroom, Ballet, Pointe, Jazz and Hip Hop & Salsa. Janette was a finalist from season 5 “So You Think You Can Dance” and toured with finalists. Appeared on the “82nd Annual Academy Awards” and danced with Jennifer Lopez on the “SYTYCD” finale. She is a principal dancer on Fox’s “Glee” and Glee Live Tour.

KAREN HAUER (Dancer). Original Burn the Floor Broadway & West End cast member. Born in Venezuela, Karen began to dance shortly after arriving in NYC at 8 years old. She attended LaGuardia HS of the Performing Arts. 2008 World Mambo Champion. “SYTYCD” (U.S.) top 12.

Featured Vocalist:

VONZELL SOLOMON (Vocalist), better known as "Baby V," is an international singer, songwriter, producer, recording artist, model and actress. She was the second runner-up in the 4th season of the FOX Television series “American Idol.” Following her amazing performances on “Idol,” she launched her own record label, Melodic Records. Vonzell is presently putting the finishing touches on her highly anticipated sophomore CD release. She is thrilled to be making her US Tour debut with this fabulous show, Burn the Floor! www.vonzellbabyvsolomon.com / twitter.com/vonzellsolomon.
For more information about the show, visit www.burnthefloor.com.

The following shows are also part of the DSM 2011 season at the Music Hall at Fair Park. Pick A Packs that include any three DSM shows are still available, starting as low as $36. For more information, please visit www.dallassummermusicals.org.

9 TO 5: THE MUSICAL, May 18-29, 2011. This musical is the most fun you will have all season, with its hilarious story of friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era. The new musical comedy, direct from Broadway, is based on the hit movie and features Dolly Parton’s original hit title song along with her new Tony® Award and Grammy® nominated score.

STOMP, June 7-12, 2011. This one-week special returns to the Music Hall at Fair Park with new surprises! Explosive, provocative, sophisticated, sexy, and utterly unique, STOMP appeals to audiences of all ages.

MONTY PYTHON’S SPAMALOT, June 14-26, 2011. The second coming of Broadway’s #1 Musical Comedy Smash, called “A No-Holds-Barred Smash Hit” by The New Yorker. The funniest show on earth is back to taunt Dallas for a second time. Winner of the 2005 Tony® Award for Best Musical, SPAMALOT, the musical comedy sensation lovingly ripped off from the film classic “Monty Python and The Holy Grail,” now returns to spread laughter and cheer throughout the kingdom.

GUYS AND DOLLS, July 19-31, 2011. Big League Productions is proud to announce a sparkling new production of the timeless Broadway classic, GUYS AND DOLLS. Set in Damon Runyon’s mythical New York City, this oddball romantic comedy—considered by many to be the perfect musical comedy—soars with the spirit of Broadway as it introduces us to the cast of vivid characters who have become legends in the canon. The New York Times calls it “The show that defines Broadway dazzle!”

WEST SIDE STORY, October 4-23, 2011, is also the 2011 State Fair of Texas musical. More than fifty years ago one musical changed theater forever. Now it's back, and mesmerizing audiences once again. From the first note to the final breath, West Side Story soars as the greatest love story of all time. Directed by David Saint, using Tony Award-winning librettist Arthur Laurents’ Broadway direction, West Side Story remains as powerful, poignant and timely as ever. The new Broadway cast album of West Side Story recently won the 2010 Grammy Award for Best Musical Show Album. The Bernstein and Sondheim score is considered to be one of Broadway's finest and features such classics of the American musical theatre as "Something's Coming," "Tonight," "America," "I Feel Pretty" and "Somewhere."

“So exciting IT MAKES YOU ACHE WITH PLEASURE” –John Lahr, The New Yorker

Season sponsors for Dallas Summer Musicals, presented by Comerica Bank, are The Dallas Morning News, WFAA TV Channel 8, American Airlines, and Texas Instruments. For more information about Dallas Summer Musicals, presented by Comerica Bank, visit their website at www.dallassummermusicals.org or call (214) 421-5678.

Madelyn Miller has loved dance since she took ballet lessons at age 5. Now she prefers watching to dancing.
Read her stories on www.travellady.com, www.carladynews.com, www.yogayaya.com, www.chocolateatlas.com, www.cocktailatlas.com, www.coffeeatlas.com, www.teaAtlas.com

UPTOWN PLAYERS PRESENTS REGIONAL PREMIER OF THE YOUNG MAN FROM ATLANTA

UPTOWN PLAYERS PRESENTS THE REGIONAL PREMIER OF THE YOUNG MAN FROM ATLANTA

Edited by Madelyn Miller

Uptown Players begins its second full season at the Kalita Humphreys Theater with the regional premiere of The Young Man From Atlanta by the late legendary Texas playwright, Horton Foote, running April 1 – 17, 2011.

CELEBRATING HORTON FOOTE

Dallas-Fort Worth area arts organizations are coming together for a two month-long celebration of the late legendary Texas playwright Horton Foote. Uptown Players is pleased to be participating in this citywide festival.
Foote is, without question, one of the most significant American playwrights of the 20th century, and holds a unique place in the pantheon of great Texas theater artists. His plays are all set in the State of Texas, and are deeply saturated with Texas social life and culture.

Foote's Pulitzer prize-winning play, The Young Man From Atlanta, is about a middle-aged couple whose rags-to-riches American Dream suddenly turns into a nightmare. Will Kidder has just moved into his new $200,000 home when he is let go by the company for whom he has worked for nearly 40 years. He decides to start his own business and hopes to use the money he gave his wife and his late son, who committed suicide. But, Will soon learns that both wife and son gave all their money to Bill's roommate, a young man from Atlanta, and Will is left to face a troubled and uncertain future. The Kidders' painful but often funny story won the 1995 Pulitzer Prize for drama.

THE CAST

The cast includes Blake Blair, Amanda Denton, Gordon Fox, Stan Graner, Tippi Hunter, Kevin Moore, T.A.Taylor, Lucia Welch, and Yolanda Williams. The production is under the direction of Marianne Galloway.

SHOW DATES

The production runs April 1 through April 17, 2011 with shows at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. on Sundays. There is no performance on April 3, and there is an added performance at 8 p.m. on Thursday, April 14. Performances take place at the Kalita Humphreys Theater, 3636 Turtle Creek Blvd (entrance off Blackburn), Dallas, TX 75219. Tickets are $25-35 and can be purchased online at http://www.uptownplayers.org or by phone at (214) 219-2718.

ABOUT UPTOWN PLAYERS

Now entering its tenth season, Uptown Players has gathered a dedicated following with an annual audience base of more than 14,000 patrons, including nearly 1,000 season subscribers. Uptown Players has been named the best theatre company by the Dallas Voice Readers Awards for the past four years and by the Dallas Observer in 2004, 2005 and 2009.

Uptown Players is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization, presenting plays and musicals that challenge audiences artistically, build cultural bridges, and strive to create greater positive public awareness and acceptance through the performing arts. There is no other theater group with this unique mission in the Dallas area.

Madelyn Miller is a travel and food writer who tries to see every performance of Uptown Players.

Read her stories on www.travellady.com, www.carladynews.com, www.yogayaya.com, www.cocktailatlas.com, www.coffeeatlas.com, www.teaAtlas.com, www.chocolateatlas.com

Two Broadway blockbusters make Dallas Debut

“Best Musical of the Decade” and 5-time Tony Award Nominee Both Make Their Dallas Debut as part of the AT&T Performing Arts Center’s Lexus Broadway Series

Two of the most popular and award-winning Broadway shows currently on tour, Billy Elliot The Musical-with music by Sir Elton John and Rock of Ages, a musical comedy featuring hit songs from the 1980’s are coming to Dallas

Both shows feature recognizable actors in leading roles: Billy Elliot features TV and Broadway actress Faith Prince, and Rock of Ages features American Idol finalist Constantine Maroulis.

Performances of Rock of Ages will run from May 17 through May 29 and Billy Elliot The Musical will run from June 8 through June 19. Both shows are part of the Center’s Lexus Broadway Series at the Winspear Opera House.



About Rock of Ages

Rock of Ages is a hilarious, feel-good love story told through the hit songs of iconic rockers Journey, Styx, REO Speedwagon, Foreigner, Pat Benatar, Whitesnake and many others. In 1987 on the Sunset Strip, a small town girl meets a big city dreamer in one of Los Angeles’ most legendary rock clubs and they fall in love to the greatest songs of the ‘80s.

Constantine Maroulis of American Idol fame will reprise his acclaimed performance as Drew in the first national tour of the 5-time Tony Awards nominated hit musical.
Rolling Stone magazine said: “Rock of Ages has found a perfect lead in Maroulis,” who was among the show’s Tony nominees.

Maroulis was a finalist on American Idol during its fourth season and went on to perform in numerous Broadway and Off-Broadway shows, including The Wedding Singer and Jacques Brel is Alive and Well and Living in Paris.

Rock of Ages opened April 7, 2009 at Broadway’s Brook Atkinson Theatre to critical acclaim. The production was nominated for Best Musical of 2009 and a New Line/Warner Bros. film of Rock of Ages is scheduled to be released later this year.

The show will run from May 17 through May 29 at the AT&T Performing Arts Center.

Performances of Rock of Ages will be at 8 p.m., Tuesdays through Fridays; 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturdays and 2 p.m. on Sundays. There will be additional performances on Sunday, May 22 at 7:30 p.m. and Wednesday, May 25 at 2:00 p.m.

Single ticket prices range from $25 to $150 with prime location orchestra seats available for $75 for select performances.

About Billy Elliot The Musical

Billy Elliot The Musical, featuring an original score by music legend Sir Elton John, is a joyous celebration of one boy’s journey to make his dream come true. Set in a small town, the story follows Billy as he stumbles out of the boxing ring and into a ballet class, discovering a surprising passion that inspires his family and his whole community.

Based on the international hit film, Billy Elliot is brought to life by a phenomenal cast, including Faith Prince, who has been dazzling Broadway audiences since she swept the theatre awards, winning The Tony, Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Awards for her performance as Adelaide in the revival of Guys and Dolls.

Faith guest starred on the Lifetime hit series, Drop Dead Diva, and also has appeared in guest starring roles this year on Ugly Betty,Medium and CSI. She had a recurring role for five seasons on Spin City and has appeared on Grey’s Anatomy, House, Monk and Law and Order.

Her other Broadway credits include The Little Mermaid, Bells are Ringing, Nick & Nora, Little Me, Noises Off and Jerome Robbins’ Broadway. She was nominated for Tony and Drama Desk Awards for her performances in Bells are Ringing and Jerome Robbins’ Broadway.

Billy Elliot The Musical was created by – director Stephen Daldry, choreographer Peter Darling and writer Lee Hall – along with music legend Elton John, who has written what the New York Post calls “His best score yet.”

Time Magazine has declared Billy Elliot “the best musical of the decade” and the show won 10 Tony Awards in 2009.

The show will run from June 8 through June 19 at the AT&T Performing Arts Center.

Performances of Billy Elliot The Musical will be at 8 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays; 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturdays, and 2 p.m. on Sundays. There will be additional performances on Sunday, June 12 at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, June 9 at 2 p.m. and Wednesday, June 15 at 2:00 p.m.

Single ticket prices range from $30 to $150 with prime location orchestra seats available for $90 for select performances.

Due to changes in national touring plans, the run of Billy Elliot The Musical has been shortened to a limited, two-week engagement at the AT&T Performing Arts Center with 16 performances.

Tickets can be purchased at www.attpac.org/broadway, by phone at 214.880.0202, or in person at the AT&T Performing Arts Center Box Office at the Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora Street (Monday through Saturday, 10 am – 6 pm; Sunday 11 am – 4 pm), or at the remote Box Office at Park Place Lexus Plano at 1025 Preston Road.


About the AT&T Performing Arts Center
Open since October 2009, the AT&T Performing Arts Center is a vibrant destination for entertainment in the heart of the downtown Dallas Arts District. The Center presents a variety of programs, including its Lexus Broadway Series, Brinker International Forum, JAZZ ROOTS and, in association with TITAS, contemporary dance and music, and other performances. The Center also provides performance space for The Dallas Opera, Dallas Theater Center, Dallas Black Dance Theatre and Anita N. Martinez Ballet Folklorico, in unparalleled venues set within a 10-acre urban park.

The Man from Atlanta

UPTOWN PLAYERS PRESENTS THE YOUNG MAN FROM ATLANTA
Uptown Players begins its second full season at the Kalita Humphreys Theater with the regional premiere of The Young Man From Atlanta by the late legendary Texas playwright, Horton Foote, running April 1 – 17, 2011. Dallas-Fort Worth area arts organizations are coming together for a two month-long celebration of the late legendary Texas playwright Horton Foote.

Foote is, without question, one of the most significant American playwrights of the 20th century, and holds a unique place in the pantheon of great Texas theater artists. His plays are all set in the State of Texas, and are deeply saturated with Texas social life and culture.

Foote's Pulitzer prize-winning play, The Young Man From Atlanta, is about a middle-aged couple whose rags-to-riches American Dream suddenly turns into a nightmare. Will Kidder has just moved into his new $200,000 home when he is let go by the company for whom he has worked for nearly 40 years.

He decides to start his own business and hopes to use the money he gave his wife and his late son, who committed suicide. But, Will soon learns that both wife and son gave all their money to Bill's roommate, a young man from Atlanta, and Will is left to face a troubled and uncertain future. The Kidders' painful but often funny story won the 1995 Pulitzer Prize for drama.

The cast includes Blake Blair, Amanda Denton, Gordon Fox, Stan Graner, Tippi Hunter, Kevin Moore, T.A.Taylor, Lucia Welch, and Yolanda Williams. The production is under the direction of Marianne Galloway.

The production runs April 1 through April 17, 2011 with shows at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. on Sundays. There is no performance on April 3, and there is an added performance at 8 p.m. on Thursday, April 14. Performances take place at the Kalita Humphreys Theater, 3636 Turtle Creek Blvd (entrance off Blackburn), Dallas, TX 75219. Tickets are $25-35 and can be purchased online at http://www.uptownplayers.org or by phone at (214) 219-2718.


About Uptown Players
Now entering its tenth season, Uptown Players has gathered a dedicated following with an annual audience base of more than 14,000 patrons, including nearly 1,000 season subscribers. Uptown Players has been named the best theatre company by the Dallas Voice Readers Awards for the past four years and by the Dallas Observer in 2004, 2005 and 2009. Uptown Players is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization, presenting plays and musicals that challenge audiences artistically, build cultural bridges, and strive to create greater positive public awareness and acceptance through the performing arts. There is no other theater group with this unique mission in the Dallas area.

Tommy Tune kicks up his heels to open the Dallas Summer Musicals 71st Season

Kicking off Dallas Summer Musicals’ (DSM) 71st season March 15-20, 2011, will be TOMMY TUNE- STEPS IN TIME, A BROADWAY BIOGRAPHY IN SONG AND DANCE, FEATURING THE MANHATTAN RHYTHM KINGS.

Broadway’s Super Star Song and Dance man, Tommy Tune hits the stage high-stepping through his nine-time Tony® Award winning career. Known as one of the most prolific theatre men of the Twentieth Century, Tommy Tune has enchanted audiences over the past 50 years with his charisma, vision, and innovation.

When I was in college, I had a chance to interview Twiggy, the anorexic English teenager girl who was a thin as a Twig. She became a sensation and I followed her career with fascination. When she paired up with Tommy Tune in My One and Only, it was an instant smash hit. And although Twiggy seems to have faded into the background, Tommy Tune is still pounding out hits and art.

A native Texan, Tune received his Equity card onstage at the Music Hall at Fair Park, and began his career as a dancer in the Broadway shows Baker Street, A Joyful Noise, and How Now Dow Jones. He would soon step out of the chorus and into a principal role in the Broadway musical Seesaw, which garnered him his first Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical. Less than a decade later, he won a Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical for his performance in My One and Only.
Tune's talents were not limited to his onstage performances.

Throughout his career, he would go on to win an additional seven Tony Awards, four for Best Choreography (A Day in Hollywood/A Night in the Ukraine, Grand Hotel, My One and Only, The Will Rogers Follies) and three for Best Direction of a Musical (Nine, Grand Hotel, The Will Rogers Follies), bringing his total to an unprecedented nine Tony Awards.

In addition, his talents have been recognized by receiving eight Drama Desk Awards, three Astaire Awards, and the Society of Directors and Choreographers George Abbott Award for Lifetime Achievement. He is also the recipient of the National Medal of Arts, the country's highest honor for artistic achievement.
The versatile Tune's talents extend beyond the stage. His film credits include, Hello Dolly, The Boyfriend, Mimi Bluette, Fiore Del Mio Giardino, and Hollywood Blvd. He has been honored with a star on the legendary Hollywood Walk of Fame. Throughout his career he has toured extensively in productions of Irma La Douce, Seesaw, Tommy Tune Tonight, My One and Only, Bye, Bye, Birdie, and his act with The Manhattan Rhythm Kings.

In his spare time, Tune enjoys painting in his Manhattan tower studio. Some of his work can be seen online atwww.TommyTuneGallery.com.

Most recently, Tune directed the new musical, Turn of the Century, at the esteemed Goodman Theatre in Chicago. The show, slated for Broadway, was written by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice of Jersey Boys fame.

Manhattan Rhythm Kings: Known for their polished performances of American popular music from the ‘20s, ‘30s and ‘40s, the Manhattan Rhythm Kings have gained a large and enthusiastic following across the country. While frequently compared with such musical greats as the Mills Brothers and Paul Whiteman’s Rhythm Boys, the trio has established a unique character of its own with a combination of close harmony singing, virtuosic instrumental work, and spectacular tap dancing.

The Rhythm Kings started performing together on the sidewalks of New York in 1980. From there, these song and dance men graduated to playing some of the Big Apple’s top nightspots. It was their sparkling combination of song and dance that first attracted the attention of Broadway’s Tommy Tune. In 1984 Mr. Tune asked the trio to help him assemble an act based on songs written by Fred Astaire. Their collaboration continues today and the act has performed together in venues as diverse as Carnegie Hall and Atlantic City’s Trump Plaza, and a tour of the former Soviet Union, where they commanded standing ovations in Moscow, Tiblisi, and St. Petersburg.

The Kings are favorites at symphony pops concerts and have performed with over 80 orchestras, including the Boston Pops, the National Symphony, and the orchestras of Baltimore, Detroit, St.Louis, Cincinnati, Seattle, Indianapolis, Dallas and Pittsburgh, among others. The Rhythm Kings have made numerous appearances on television, most notably Evening at Pops with John Williams, Tommy Tune and the Boston Pops, as well as the Emmy-award winning Celebrating Gershwin with conductor Michael Tilson Thomas. In addition, they’ve starred in their own special for Nebraska Public Television, and were featured with Andrew Litton and the Dallas Symphony on their PBS special.

Other TV credits include The 1992 Tony Awards, the Today show, CBS, This Morning, The 1992 Kennedy Center Honors Awards, Entertainment Tonight, As the World Turns, as well as several appearances on the The Charles Grodin Show. The Manhattan Rhythm Kings have shared the stage with Bob Hope, George Burns, Leonard Bernstein, Judy Collins, Bette Midler and Gregory Hines. They also appeared at Radio City Music Hall with the Rockettes as part of Peter Allen’s Easter Spectacular.

In 1992 the Rhythm Kings were back on Broadway, this time indoors, at the Shubert Theatre. They were featured as Moose, Sam and Mingo, a trio of crooning bumpkins in the “new” Gershwin musical Crazy for You, winner of three Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Choreography. The Manhattan Rhythm Kings are proud to have performed with Tommy Tune in their latest song and dance review, “White Tie and Tails”, inaugurating New York City’s newest theater, the “Little Shubert”, on 42nd St. To quote John Simon of New York Magazine, “90 minutes you fervently wish would never end!”

The group also recently recorded with Vince Giordano’s Nighthawks on the soundtrack of the Martin Scorsese film “The Aviator”, starring Leonardo Di Caprio. Their latest CD is a tribute to Bing Crosby and the Rhythm Boys. In addition to their busy schedule, the “King’s” have tour dates with Tommy Tune. Check out their full itinerary as well as information on how to order one of their five CDs at Myspace page: http://www.myspace.com/manhattanrhythmkings.

The following shows are also part of the DSM 2011 season at the Music Hall at Fair Park. Pick A Packs that include any three DSM shows are available starting as low as $36. For more information, please visit www.dallassummermusicals.org.
BURN THE FLOOR, April 5-17, 2011. Direct from Broadway, the new Broadway production proclaimed “Audience-Dazzling!” by The New York Times, brings back Ballroom Dancing, reinvented. Years before “Dancing with the Stars” and “So You Think You Can Dance” turned ballroom dancing into must-see TV, one sizzling show was setting stages ablaze around the globe.

9 TO 5: THE MUSICAL, May 18-29, 2011. This musical is the most fun you will have all season, with its hilarious story of friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era. The new musical comedy, direct from Broadway, is based on the hit movie and features Dolly Parton’s original hit title song along with her new Tony® Award and Grammy® nominated score.

STOMP, June 7-12, 2011. This one-week special returns to the Music Hall at Fair Park with new surprises! Explosive, provocative, sophisticated, sexy, and utterly unique, STOMP appeals to audiences of all ages.

MONTY PYTHON’S SPAMALOT, June 14-26, 2011. The second coming of Broadway’s #1 Musical Comedy Smash, called “A No-Holds-Barred Smash Hit” by The New Yorker. The funniest show on earth is back to taunt Dallas for a second time. Winner of the 2005 Tony® Award for Best Musical, SPAMALOT, the musical comedy sensation lovingly ripped off from the film classic “Monty Python and The Holy Grail,” now returns to spread laughter and cheer throughout the kingdom.

GUYS AND DOLLS, July 19-31, 2011. Big League Productions is proud to announce a sparkling new production of the timeless Broadway classic, GUYS AND DOLLS. Set in Damon Runyon’s mythical New York City, this oddball romantic comedy—considered by many to be the perfect musical comedy—soars with the spirit of Broadway as it introduces us to the cast of vivid characters who have become legends in the canon. The New York Times calls it “The show that defines Broadway dazzle!”

WEST SIDE STORY, October 4-23, 2011, is also the 2011 State Fair of Texas musical. “Bold, fresh and transcendent,” said The New Yorker. More than 50 years ago, one musical changed theater forever. Back on Broadway mesmerizing audiences once again, from the first note to the final breath, WEST SIDE STORY soars as the greatest love story of all time. Directed by two-time Tony® Award winning librettist Arthur Laurents, WEST SIDE STORY remains as powerful, poignant and timely as ever. The new Broadway cast album recently won the 2010 Grammy® Award for Best Musical Show Album.

Season sponsors for Dallas Summer Musicals, presented by Comerica Bank, are The Dallas Morning News, WFAA TV Channel 8, American Airlines, and Texas Instruments.
For more information about Dallas Summer Musicals, presented by Comerica Bank, visit their website at www.dallassummermusicals.orgor call (214) 421-5678.

Madelyn Miller is a travel and food writer who loves dance. Read her stories on www.travellady.com, www.carladynews.com, www.yogayaya.com, www.chocolateatlas.com, www.cocktailatlas.com, www.teaAtlas.com, and www.coffeeAtlas.com

Three-Day, Cross-Brand Competitive Driving Experience

Lets Texans Drive and Compare More Than 70 All-New Vehicles

Can the Buick LaCrosse really give the Lexus ES a run for its money? How about the Chevy Silverado vs. a Ford F-150? And what about the much anticipated Chevy Volt?

Texans are about to find out for themselves as General Motors’ “Main Street in Motion” rolls in to Lone Star Park Friday, March 4 through Sunday, March 6, 2011. The one-of-a-kind competitive driving experience is free to the public and will allow invited and walk-up guests the chance to drive and compare more than 70 all-new makes and models. The best part: no pressure to buy.


WHAT: A three-day, cross-brand competitive test-drive event hosted by General Motors that pits

Chevrolet, Buick and GMC vehicles against 25 competitive makes: Toyota, Acura,

Dodge, Ford, Honda, Lexus and more. Includes refreshments and family-friendly

entertainment.

WHEN: Friday, March 4 through Sunday, March 6, 2011

8 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily

WHERE: Lone Star Park

1000 Lone Star Parkway

Grand Prairie, TX 75050
COST: Free and open to the public
VEHICLES: Vehicles included in the test-drive event are:

CHEVROLET: Volt, Cruze, Equinox, Traverse, Corvette, Camaro, Malibu, Impala,

Silverado, Silverado HD, Suburban, Tahoe, Tahoe Hybrid, Avalanche and Express

BUICK: Regal, LaCrosse and Enclave

GMC: Acadia, Sierra, Sierra HD, Sierra Hybrid, Terrain, Yukon, Yukon Denali Hybrid and

Savana

ACURA: TSX, MDX and TL

DODGE: Ram 1500 and Ram 2500

FORD: Taurus, Explorer, Expedition, F-150 and F-250

HONDA: Accord, Civic, CR-V, Pilot and Ridgeline

LEXUS: ES

NISSAN: Murano and Maxima

TOYOTA: Corolla, Camry, Tundra, Sequoia and RAV4

HYUNDAI: Elantra and Santa Fe


REQUIRED: Drivers must be 18 years of age or older and have a valid driver’s license.

REGISTER: Walk-ups are welcome but guests are encouraged to register in advance at

mainstreetinmotion.com.





About General Motors – General Motors Company (NYSE: GM, TSX: GMM), one of the world’s largest automakers, traces its roots back to 1908. With its global headquarters in Detroit, GM employs 209,000 people in every major region of the world and does business in more than 120 countries. GM and its strategic partners produce cars and trucks in 31 countries, and sell and service these vehicles through the following brands: Baojun, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, Isuzu, Jiefang, Opel, Vauxhall, and Wuling. GM’s largest national market is China, followed by the United States, Brazil, the United Kingdom, Germany, Canada, Italy, Russia, Mexico, and Uzbekistan. GM’s OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. General Motors acquired operations from General Motors Corporation on July 10, 2009, and references to prior periods in this and other press materials refer to operations of the old General Motors Corporation. More information on the new General Motors can be found at www.gm.com.

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MANHATTAN MADAM wants to partner with Spitzer

EX-MADAM TO CNN: "I'M AVAILABLE."
DAVIS-SPITZER WOULD GENERATE FIREWORKS AND RATINGS


Ex-Madam Kristin Davis, who supplied call girls for Eliot Spitzer, has a message for CNN executives--"I'm available."

CNN dumped Spitzer's co-host Kathleen Parker from the ex-governor's ratings challenged show after reports that Spitzer felt that Parker, rather than his banal analysis of current events, was responsible for dismal ratings.

"Now that Kathleen Parker has learned that Eliot Spitzer is a misogynist pig, perhaps it's time for CNN executives to pair Spitzer with someone who will challenge his sanctimonious know-it-all rants," "I've spent years dealing with Spitzer, I'm quite sure I can handle him" said Davis, who worked as the Vice President of a hedge fund before founding the most successful multi-million dollar escort service in history. "I'm available."

"Eliot Spitzer avoided prosecution for various state and federal crimes while those who committed similar crimes went to prison," said Davis. "More importantly, he has benefited monetarily for those crimes by being paid substantially more by CNN than his salary as governor."

Davis was convicted on one count of promoting prostitution and served four months on Rikers Island. Her probation ended in November of 2010. She recently founded Hope House, a non-profit program to combat sex trafficking and assist women who have been conscripted into a life of prostitution.

"Ms. Parker's contract, which she most likely got paid in full despite her termination, most likely prevents her from telling the truth about the circumstances surrounding her leaving the show," said Davis, who ran for governor in 2010 to protest the inequalities in the justice system, which caused her prosecution while Spitzer went unpunished.

"If CNN really wants someone who will confront Spitzer instead of a lap dog, I'm their woman," said Davis.

Cupcakes are out, Muffins are in

Tomorrow morning Central Market will make history again. They have mastered the muffin. Cupcakes will be out and muffins will be in - You heard it here first!


The baking teams at Central Market bakeries are right there in the store, so when a customer has a comment or complaint, they hear it first.

“A common request was for bigger muffins, different varieties of muffins, and especially moister muffins,” says Edouard Damez, Bakery Development Manager for Central Market.

Following months of testing and tasting,Central Market now confidently states, “We’ve mastered the muffin!”

Central Market’s From-Scratch Bakery Launches New Line of 14 Muffins
And not just the old standby blueberry (though it’s been reengineered with more fruit, too.) The new line reads like a Fantasy Team lineup for Foodies:

• Balsamic-Soaked Strawberries with Chevre
• Pecan Sour Cream
• Antioxidant Powerhouse with Acai, Goji, Blackberries and Pomegranate for a healthy power-food kick
• Pear Ginger
• Fig & Star Anise
• White Chocolate Apricot
• Banana Nut Granola
• …and more coming each week

The trick that seems to have made a big difference? Creating a traditional buttermilk batter.

“When you are working with the best-quality fruits, nuts and truly well-trained artisan bakers, it somehow all comes together with hard work,” says Damez.

Launching in stores on Wednesday, February 16, shoppers will find the muffins (wrapped in a delicate Italian-style tulip paper for a beautiful presentation) in the Bakery department available in four packs for $5.99 or individually at $1.99. Look for the following launch week specials February 16 – 23:

• Package of 4 just $3.99
• Mix & Match 2 for $3

Sexiest wine in the city

Wine has always been sexy... think Bacchus didn't have "getting sideways" on his mind when he uncorked an amphora? Now it's time to put the adult back in this adult beverage.

New York Wine Salon is having their first event: The Sexiest Wines in the City, February 13 {Valentine's Eve} at VinoVino in Tribeca. Try some French (and other) ticklers, blanc bombshells, hot pinks, and wines from the "red light district."

Wines include: Piper-Heidsieck's "corset bottle" Champagne, Naked Grape Pinot Grigio, Eroica Riesling, Savanna Samson's "Sogno Due," plus The Show Malbec, "Fourplay," "Seduction," "Rapture," Mollydooker "Carnival of Love," Cupid's Arrow Pinot Noir, Marilyn Merlot "Velvet Collection" and Italy's sexy red sparkler: Brachetto d'Acqui.

Lip-smacking finger food will be served... puffy gougeres, tea-smoked shrimp, caramelized onioin tarts, assorted salumi and cheeses.... And, of course, there will be chocolate.


Sunday, February 13 · 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Location VinoVino Winebar in Tribeca
211 West Broadway


Tickets are $49. Visit http://nywinesalon.com/ and watch the video.
Buy tickets at http://nywinesalon.eventbrite.com/ or LocalWineEvents.com
Wall

The complete list of 66 freebies and discounts for teachers

Teacher discounts don't often receive the same attention as those specifically for students, but educators need not frown -- there are plenty to be had.

Along with classroom supplies and other learned goodies like books, numerous teacher discounts are offered nationwide, ranging from laptops and Photoshop to museum entry and cell phone plans. Gift Card Granny has compiled a list of 66 top-notch discounts spanning nine categories, both online and off. A sampling:
The Container Store: The organizational aficionados provide a 15 percent discount on all items through the Organized Teacher Program. Register online for a free discount card to use for in-store and online purchases. If you visit a store, be sure to have your school ID.
Borders: Register for the Classroom Discount Card, a brand-spanking-new program that entitles librarians and teachers 25-percent off most purchases. The discount is for those who teach preschool to high school and available in-store only.
The Limited: Show a school ID or valid pay stub when you shop at any The Limited location and snag 15-percent off your entire order. The offer is good for all items on the racks, walls or tables. In other words, everything.
Bose: The Bose offer is prime, particularly for those in need of sonic stimulation. Variable discounts are available on all music systems and accessories. Call the Customer Focused Development Team at 1-800-353-4027 for pricing and to place an order.
Cell Phone Companies (Verizon, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile): This discount is a tad tricky to redeem but can save loads on a personal cell phone bill, sometimes up to 20 percent a month. Visit your providers business or discount portal and input your .edu e-mail address to check if your institution is registered. Example: Search "Verizon business discount" in an engine and click on the first result to check your discount or register.
National Park Service: Show a valid school ID at a slew of National Park Service visitor centers across the nation and receive 15-percent off any purchase. The discount doesn't apply to park entry or camping fees.
John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art: Present a valid school ID at the box office to snag a discounted day pass at the estate-turned-gallery in Sarasota, Fla. The museum, named for John Ringling of Ringling Brothers circus fame, is located at 5401 Bay Shore Road.
The Gift Card Granny list provides information where a deal can be redeemed, how to register for certain reward programs and, of course, the extent of a discount. Rules and conditions change from store to store, yet nearly all of the 66 deals are available year-round for teachers of every brand, including elementary school, high school, university and home school. Download "The Complete List of 66 Teacher Discounts" to sooth these oft-neglected educators with something more rewarding than the routine "apple for teacher."


GiftCardGranny.com is one of four websites operating under the brand name The Frugals and dedicated to helping consumers save money and live more frugally. Other members of The Frugals family include CouponSherpa.com, MrFreeStuff.com and MrsSweepstakes.com

Best VALENTINE gift under $15

February is the month that represents LOVE, sharing gifts that bring joy and happiness to your sweetheart. Valentine’s Day is around the corner and now is the time to start planning for your loved one.

The Jordin Sparks fragrance “Because of You” is pink, flirty and no one will ever guess that you paid only $14.95 for the Eau de Parfum Spray. Made for the woman who shatters expectations, this fragrance imbues a feeling of power, a sense that she can attain whatever she wants - even the thrill of the forbidden.

A sheer, floral - oriented fragrance, it opens with a bright burst of citrus and a dangerous hint of blond woods.

The overall effect is young, stylish, and eminently wearable - a daring edge of the sexiness and sensuality that captures the essence of Jordin Sparks.

Everyone’s favorite new fragrance—Jordin Sparks “Because of You” is now available at your local Dots store or at www.JordinSparksBeauty.com.

Free Dove Chocolate Bar

giveaway on Twitter offering a free coupon for one Dove Silky Smooth Chocolate Singles Bar. There will be 2,011 prizes offered, and all that has to be done to enter is to send a reply including your #1 Promise to yourself in the new year and the hashtag #DOVE2011Promises to @Dove_chocolate. The contest is going on now and running through January 31, 2011.


Official giveaway rules: http://twitpic.com/3l90zq

See and be seen with the Beautiful People

DIFFA/Dallas Presents:

Style Council 2011 Announcement & Collection Kick-off Party



What: DIFFA/Dallas’s social season has begun! In partnership with Modern Luxury Dallas, they are kicking off their 2011 Collection by hosting a not-to-be-missed party at the Cantoni House in Preston Hollow where they will be making their much anticipated 2011 Style Council announcement.

Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres will abound as guests, along with the year’s newly appointed Style Council, mingle in the highly acclaimed modern architecture of the Axis Cantoni House. Dallas’ favorite, DJ Lucy Wrubel, will be spinning tunes during the stylish soiree.

Hints as to what fabulous finds await at DIFFA/Dallas’s Collection 2011, Dramatically Different, to be held on April 16th, will begin to be unveiled with further specifics released after the kick-off party.


When: Thursday, January 20th, 2011
6:30pm – 9:30pm

Suggested $20 Donation at the Door

Where: Cantoni House
5903 Lakehurst Avenue, Preston Hollow

WHO: About DIFFA

DIFFA plays a major part in HIV/AIDS funding, awareness and prevention education in the North Texas area, having granted over $4.5 million dollars since 1988. The Dallas chapter is the Foundation’s largest and most successful in the country and has made significant financial contributions to AIDS Service Organizations in the North Texas area. The DIFFA grants process includes site visits, fiscal scrutiny, and personal interviews with potential grantees to insure that funds are appropriated where they can do the most good.

2 free nights in any HYATT worldwide if you get their credit card

Apply for a Hyatt Credit card and get 2 nights free ANYWHERE in the world. No blackout dates. $75 yearly fee on the CC
http://www.mychasecreditcards.com/hyatt

# Park Hyatt Paris – $900 per night
# Park Hyatt Dubai – $400 a night
# Hyatt Regency London – $500 a night
# Park Hyatt Tokyo – $600 a night
# Hyatt Regency Maui – $400 a night
# Park Hyatt Shanghai – $400 a night
# Park Hyatt Sydney – $700 a night
# Hyatt Regency London – $500 a night
# Park Hyatt Buenos Aires – $500 + free tango lessons

(source: www.Mymoneyblog.com)

Today is national bubble bath day..and here is a double bubbly recipe

Daily Feng Shui Tip by Ellen Whitehurst for Saturday, January 8

Wash those cares and worries right down the drain on this 'National Bubble Bath Day.' Here's a recipe for a powerful bath that can not only rejuvenate and restore but can also bring balance, harmony and happiness!

For this particular soak you're going to need one half cup each of golden honey and milk. You'll also need to have one half cup of Epsom salts on hand and three fresh crushed mint leaves, a few sprigs of fresh parsley and a small split of your favorite champagne.

Mix the first two ingredients and then add the herbs to that blend. Run the bathwater, pour in the Epsom salts and let them dissolve.

Right before you hit the bath, add the mixture from the bowl and pour yourself a glass of the bubbly! Sit and soak for a maximum soothe of body, mind and spirit!

HOW to save $5 on Young Frankenstein

THE NEW MEL BROOKS MUSICAL YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN!

If you enjoyed the performance we'd love for you to tell your friends and encourage them to attend an upcoming performance...and here's a special offer to share with them: Tell your friends to use promo code "FRIEND" when ordering their tickets and they will save $10 off the ticket price.* Lots of great seats are still available at attpac.org/frank or call 214-880-0202.

The real Truth about Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico Tourism Company Corrects Distortions in Recent eTurbo News Article



According to Mario Gonzalez Lafuente, Executive Director, Puerto Rico Tourism Company, A recent article in the online publication eTurbo News concerning travel to Puerto Rico is riddled with inaccuracies, painting a highly distorted picture of the Island’s well-being.

For example, the article suggests that the Island’s economic condition is worsening, as measured by a diminution in the Island’s bond rating. Exactly the opposite is true. The Island is on the rebound. Just a little over a month ago, for the first time in nearly 30 years, Standard & Poor’s upgraded its outlook on Puerto Rico’s credit to positive.

S&P credit analyst Horacio Aldrete-Sanchez stated that “the outlook revision is based on our view of the commonwealth’s recent implementation of significant expenditure controls and revenue enhancement measures that we believe could help restore budget balance within the next two years.” Similarly, the Wall Street Journal recently opined that Gov. Fortuño’s economic program should serve as a role model for other U.S. governors.

The article also misrepresents the crime problem. Crime is a problem in many American locales and across the Caribbean. But Gov. Luis Fortuño, in office for two years, is working to ensure that lawbreakers, whatever their crimes, are punished to the fullest extent under the law.
Indeed, Gov. Fortuño has made crime fighting a major priority of his administration. Under his leadership and with federal support, corrupt police officers have been weeded out of the police force, and joint state and federal strike forces are on the offense in the fight against drug-related violence.

Finally, contrary to the author’s point-of-view, Puerto Rico has been recognized by many leading travel authorities as a premier travel destination. For example, Fodor’s has recognized Puerto Rico as the top travel destination in the Caribbean, while Arthur Frommer’s called Puerto Rico one of the top nightlife destinations in the region. Puerto Rico’s distinction as a leading destination is also confirmed by the number of leading hotel properties, such as the Sheraton Convention Center, the W Retreat and Spa in Vieques, the Condado Lagoon Villas and the St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, that have opened in the past 18 months. In addition, the Condado Vanderbilt and the Ritz-Carlton Reserve Dorado Beach Resort & Spa are opening soon.

Puerto Rico faces a bright future, and the article should have reflected that