I really didn't know what to expect when heading to the Winnipeg Centennial Concert Hall to listen to Deepak Chopra speak. Without having read any of his books, and only seeing a couple of interviews on Larry King Live and Oprah, I knew the gist of his teachings, but not much more. So...with open mind and open heart I sat in my chair prepared for enlightenment. Was I?
He started by first talking about his past, and the moment that turned him writing more medical, academic books to one's focused on spirituality. From there, he talked about the current state of science and it's views on the mind and soul and their relationship with the body. Basically, the message has changed in that the view is no longer that our body houses our mind/soul, but that our mind/soul houses our body. Of course, there is more to it than just this, but that was the overall gist of the current theory.
In closing the first half, the audience was asked to partake in a group meditation. He asked everyone to close their eyes, feel their hearts and think about things that make us grateful. Once we spent a couple of minutes in silence doing this, he than had us repeat the mantra "I am" outloud. We were than asked to continue this silently in our heads - or is it in my consciousness? Anyway... after about 7 or 8 minutes of this some music comes on and - of all people - Madonna starts talking about healing the mind and other new age stuff. Why not use a voice people have no connection with? Next, I was expecting Morgan Freeman to fill in as the voice of God.
The second half went much deeper into the theories Deepak has developed in respect to the relationship between the physical world and the spiritual world. I found it all to be very interesting, and very thought provoking. The idea that the two worlds work in a discontinual relationship, where one is "on" and the other is "off." He used the example of watching a movie. The human eye is only able to process about 24 frames a second, so as the projector flicks still images to us, they appear to be continuous when the reality is that its a series of 'ons' and 'offs.' Therefore, in life, the physical world is the 'on' which are vibrations that our brain absorbs, at the speed of light, to produce sounds, smells, images, textures and tastes. The "consciousness" is the off, which we are unable to process. The question what is the off? Get it? I could try and explain this further, but I'm far from guru status, so I would suggest either buying a book or checking out his website www.deepakchopra.com. This, to me, is when things got sour.
At almost 3 hours in, Deepak began to fast forward through the slides he was using to allow enough time to push his upcoming book, upcoming conference in Whistler, BC and his various websites. I realize this is going to part of things, but considering there were exhibits throughout the Concert Hall, and mention of all these things at the beginning by the emcee, Robert Cloutier, it came off as very self promotional.
Overall, the event left me with lots to think about, good and bad. I just wish I didn't leave feeling so sold because of all the self-promotion. Oh well, if I'm really that upset, I guess I can just meditate. "Umm..buy my books...um...go to my website...um...um..um
Monday, April 27, 2009
Monday, April 13, 2009
Winnipeg's "Bleeding Hearts"
Bleeding Hearts, written by Winnipeg playwright and actor Kevin Klassen, closes the MTC Warehouse 08 - 09 season with plenty of sex, drugs and rock n' roll. The play looks at the relationship between three estranged brothers, formerly of the rock group "The Brothers Grimm," who are forced to reunite and write a song for their recently deceased mother.
As the story unfolds, you sense the passion the three brothers had for the music they performed and how family issues ripped their rock dreams apart. The musical score is as much a part of the play as the actors and script, setting the mood for the opening of each scene. And though you expect it never to happen, you also get an opportunity to finally hear all three brothers live, in unison, strumming and singing after a very emotional exchange regarding their parents' past.
As a Winnipegger, the play is very easy to feel attached to, between the set props and the sarcastic dialogue. No performance particularly stands out over the other, which allows the audience to empathize with each character equally. There is a point in the play that was quite comical when Ainslee - a full-time phone sex operator - provides as example of her expertise with her sister's husband. The funniest part being how quiet the crowd becomes as she describes exactly what she would do to her brother-in-law if given the sexual freedom.
All in all the 08 - 09 MTC warehouse season ends strong with a local flare the audience can appreciate, likely leading to many renewals for the next season.
As the story unfolds, you sense the passion the three brothers had for the music they performed and how family issues ripped their rock dreams apart. The musical score is as much a part of the play as the actors and script, setting the mood for the opening of each scene. And though you expect it never to happen, you also get an opportunity to finally hear all three brothers live, in unison, strumming and singing after a very emotional exchange regarding their parents' past.
As a Winnipegger, the play is very easy to feel attached to, between the set props and the sarcastic dialogue. No performance particularly stands out over the other, which allows the audience to empathize with each character equally. There is a point in the play that was quite comical when Ainslee - a full-time phone sex operator - provides as example of her expertise with her sister's husband. The funniest part being how quiet the crowd becomes as she describes exactly what she would do to her brother-in-law if given the sexual freedom.
All in all the 08 - 09 MTC warehouse season ends strong with a local flare the audience can appreciate, likely leading to many renewals for the next season.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
"Doubt" not Winnipeg; MTC Delivers
The Manitoba Theatre Centre has seriously delivered in "Doubt: A Parable." With only this week remaining, I urge anyone who enjoys the arts to see this play. The performance by all cast members was extraordinary; however the lead character - Sister Aloysius- played by Nancy Palk (the same role Meryl Streep received an Oscar nomination for) was shattering. It makes me think Mrs. Streep may have taken some pointers from Mrs. Palk's performance.
The title of the play is exactly how the play leaves the audience - in a state of wonderment, left with questions as to what actually happened between the priest and the male student. A true showing of how tight dialogue and strong delivery can take a viewer through a multitude of emotions, with no clear conclusion other than the satisfaction of a night well entertained.
MTC - well done!
Set in the Bronx in early 60's, the play is about a nun - Sister Aloysius - who is the principle of a Catholic school, and who grows suspicious of a young priest and his relationship with the school's only black, male student. Determined by her suspicions, Sister Aloysius attacks the priest with her unproven allegations, risking the destruction of her own career as well as his.
MTC - well done!
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Winnipeggers Get Ready to Rock on the Range
Winnipeggers get ready to kick off the summer with American's premiere destination rock festival - Rock on The Range. On June 27th, some of rock's biggest names will gather at Canad Inn Stadium for the Canadian debut of this head-banging day of rock. And Winnipeggers, we are the only city in Canada to host the festival.
The 2009 lineup for the nationally renowned festival will be highlighted by performances from some of rock's biggest artists around the world, including BILLY TALENT, RISE AGAINST, RANCID, THEORY OF A DEADMAN and SHINEDOWN. Being presented by Right Arm Entertainment and True North, the one-day, two stage music event will feature more than a dozen bands. On top of those already mentioned, expect to see other major rock acts like THORNLEY, BLUE OCTOBER, INWARD EYE and the all-female band from Minneapolis SICK OF SARAH.
Del Williams of Right Arm Entertainment is the executive producer of the travelling rock show, and he's pumped to introduce the venue for the first time in Canada. "We are excited to bring the successful brand Rock On The Range into Canada. ROTR USA has quickly become the American festival destination for the true rock fan and we want ROTR Canada to be the same for not only Manitoba Province but for the entire country. A priority for us is to provide the best possible line up at an affordable price. ROTR Canada will be a festival the real rock music fan can count on year after year."
To give you an idea of the size of this event, last year over 50,000 rockers attended the Columbus, Ohio show, and they expect the same turnout again this year. 50,000 in Canad Inn Stadium?....no problem. Just make sure there's room for the beer tents.
Tickets for ROTR, as well as VIP packages, go on sale Saturday, March 28 at 11:00 a.m. (Central Time) via www.rockontherangecanada.com and Ticketmaster.ca, and all local Ticketmaster outlets. Ticket prices start as low as $29.50.
There you have it Winnipeggers - entertainment the way we like it - cheap and all day long.
The 2009 lineup for the nationally renowned festival will be highlighted by performances from some of rock's biggest artists around the world, including BILLY TALENT, RISE AGAINST, RANCID, THEORY OF A DEADMAN and SHINEDOWN. Being presented by Right Arm Entertainment and True North, the one-day, two stage music event will feature more than a dozen bands. On top of those already mentioned, expect to see other major rock acts like THORNLEY, BLUE OCTOBER, INWARD EYE and the all-female band from Minneapolis SICK OF SARAH.
Del Williams of Right Arm Entertainment is the executive producer of the travelling rock show, and he's pumped to introduce the venue for the first time in Canada. "We are excited to bring the successful brand Rock On The Range into Canada. ROTR USA has quickly become the American festival destination for the true rock fan and we want ROTR Canada to be the same for not only Manitoba Province but for the entire country. A priority for us is to provide the best possible line up at an affordable price. ROTR Canada will be a festival the real rock music fan can count on year after year."
To give you an idea of the size of this event, last year over 50,000 rockers attended the Columbus, Ohio show, and they expect the same turnout again this year. 50,000 in Canad Inn Stadium?....no problem. Just make sure there's room for the beer tents.
Tickets for ROTR, as well as VIP packages, go on sale Saturday, March 28 at 11:00 a.m. (Central Time) via www.rockontherangecanada.com and Ticketmaster.ca, and all local Ticketmaster outlets. Ticket prices start as low as $29.50.
There you have it Winnipeggers - entertainment the way we like it - cheap and all day long.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Winnipeg does exist, but are we cool or cheap?
It was announced today that Destination Winnipeg - the organization responsible for economic development in Winnipeg - is targeting skilled labourers in the cities of Southern Ontario hardest hit by the economic downturn.
Says President Stu Duncan, "This is an awareness campaign, of raising awareness of Winnipeg and the opportunities here, to cities where people don't know much about Winnipeg." The campaign will focus on the strengths of our economy and affordable cost of living. The idea is to spin Winnipeg as "a cool place to relocate," and they attempt this through their website incrediblycool.ca. The site was launched in late December of last year, as a cost-efficient approach to marketing Winnipeg.
My question... does this website really portray us as cool or cheap?
Because I care so much about this city, and believe so much in the opportunity we have as a city and a province, I've spoken with a lot of business people in Winnipeg and many friends and family about their thoughts on the website. The first reaction is that most haven't heard of it; the second is their dislike of the design. One person I spoke with even suggested that the company that designed the incrediblycool website simply used the template from their own website to build it. I have my own opinion of the design, but I'm more interested in the opinion of others.
The idea of creating YouTube videos that highlight Winnipeg's mention in various movies and tv programs has potential. My fear, however, is that the way they title the videos play into an inferiority complex as a city, and may position us in a negative light. Though the videos are very well produced, will people be convinced were a cool place to relocate just because Warren Beatty mentioned our name once, or because cartoon characters have visited us? I realize this isn't the only information the site provides, and that its a bit of a novel ploy to get people reading further on Winnipeg, but at the same time, it sends a message on how we perceive ourselves.
The other concern is an all-to-familiar bargain attitude to the approach. The people at Destination Winnipeg have done a phenomenal job in identifying workers in cities in Southern Ontario as targets for relocation, but will the message be heard? Why does Saskatchewan spend several hundred thousand dollars to attract commerce and we try and find a cheap alternative? Most times in life you get what you pay for.
I am encouraged that Stu Duncan has placed such value in the internet for promoting Winnipeg to the world, with an important mix of traditional media. I only hope that our bargain approach won't lead to a cheapened perception of Winnipeg as a place to live and do business.
Says President Stu Duncan, "This is an awareness campaign, of raising awareness of Winnipeg and the opportunities here, to cities where people don't know much about Winnipeg." The campaign will focus on the strengths of our economy and affordable cost of living. The idea is to spin Winnipeg as "a cool place to relocate," and they attempt this through their website incrediblycool.ca. The site was launched in late December of last year, as a cost-efficient approach to marketing Winnipeg.
My question... does this website really portray us as cool or cheap?
Because I care so much about this city, and believe so much in the opportunity we have as a city and a province, I've spoken with a lot of business people in Winnipeg and many friends and family about their thoughts on the website. The first reaction is that most haven't heard of it; the second is their dislike of the design. One person I spoke with even suggested that the company that designed the incrediblycool website simply used the template from their own website to build it. I have my own opinion of the design, but I'm more interested in the opinion of others.
The idea of creating YouTube videos that highlight Winnipeg's mention in various movies and tv programs has potential. My fear, however, is that the way they title the videos play into an inferiority complex as a city, and may position us in a negative light. Though the videos are very well produced, will people be convinced were a cool place to relocate just because Warren Beatty mentioned our name once, or because cartoon characters have visited us? I realize this isn't the only information the site provides, and that its a bit of a novel ploy to get people reading further on Winnipeg, but at the same time, it sends a message on how we perceive ourselves.
The other concern is an all-to-familiar bargain attitude to the approach. The people at Destination Winnipeg have done a phenomenal job in identifying workers in cities in Southern Ontario as targets for relocation, but will the message be heard? Why does Saskatchewan spend several hundred thousand dollars to attract commerce and we try and find a cheap alternative? Most times in life you get what you pay for.
I am encouraged that Stu Duncan has placed such value in the internet for promoting Winnipeg to the world, with an important mix of traditional media. I only hope that our bargain approach won't lead to a cheapened perception of Winnipeg as a place to live and do business.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Winnipeg Entertained By One Woman Show
I reluctantly headed off to see "The Blonde, the Brunette and the Vengeful Redhead" this weekend at the Manitoba Theatre Centre - a one-woman play written by playwright Robert Hewett, and performed by Canadian theatre staple Kelli Fox. My concern was not only content, but how much my attention could be kept by a one person show. Happily, these fears were quickly cast aside half way through the first act.
Fox plays Rhonda Russell - a red-headed housewife who turns to vengeance after being dumped by her womanizing husband, Graham Russell. Fox opens as Rhonda, and quickly captures the audiences attention as she goes on about her life with Graham, their recent split, and a hint to the trouble that ensued following her discovery of his infidelity.
Fox goes on to play the roles of almost every character mentioned who are part of the web of sex and lies. The character changes were quite interesting, set behind a silk screen canvas, while audio plays providing an idea of the physical environment. The set does not change throughout the play, only the characters. And change they did, as Fox brings a uniqueness to each role.
The play is about two hours, but never seems long. One character could have probably been skipped out - Matthew - the son of one of the lead personas in the play. The part was played well, but felt out of place to the rest of the play. My personal favorite was Fox's rendition of Graham opening the second act following intermission. Her take as the womanizing husband was as convincing as any of the female parts throughout the play.
All in all I was happy I peeled myself from the couch to take in the production. My wife and I have been very pleased with the quality and variety of this year's MTC lineup. Our faith has been officially renewed after a couple of shaky seasons, thanks to the outstanding performances seen this weekend, and throughout the year.
Fox plays Rhonda Russell - a red-headed housewife who turns to vengeance after being dumped by her womanizing husband, Graham Russell. Fox opens as Rhonda, and quickly captures the audiences attention as she goes on about her life with Graham, their recent split, and a hint to the trouble that ensued following her discovery of his infidelity.
Fox goes on to play the roles of almost every character mentioned who are part of the web of sex and lies. The character changes were quite interesting, set behind a silk screen canvas, while audio plays providing an idea of the physical environment. The set does not change throughout the play, only the characters. And change they did, as Fox brings a uniqueness to each role.
The play is about two hours, but never seems long. One character could have probably been skipped out - Matthew - the son of one of the lead personas in the play. The part was played well, but felt out of place to the rest of the play. My personal favorite was Fox's rendition of Graham opening the second act following intermission. Her take as the womanizing husband was as convincing as any of the female parts throughout the play.
All in all I was happy I peeled myself from the couch to take in the production. My wife and I have been very pleased with the quality and variety of this year's MTC lineup. Our faith has been officially renewed after a couple of shaky seasons, thanks to the outstanding performances seen this weekend, and throughout the year.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Winnipeggers - Big Men and their Big Trucks
Why is it that every morning on my way to work - no matter how early I leave - I always have to deal with some truck plummeting through the streets of Winnipeg. Yes Mr. Big Man, we know you have a Big Truck, and that all us wee people in our wee vehicles are slowing you from peeling to work in under 5 minutes. Just because you own a truck with big tires, doesn't mean that you own the road; or especially that you are a good driver.
I am obsessed with having to get a visual of these drivers. Why... I don't know? Especially considering they all look the same. Of course they have a mustache because for some reason Big Men in Winnipeg all feel the need to sport a a small animal above their lip, somehow preserving their manhood. I often think these guys feel they can grow hair on their bodies by sure will - just because their hormones rage with such high levels of testosterone being such big men.
Next, they always have one hand hanging loosely over the rim of the steering wheel, so casual in their destruction of the flow of traffic. These He-men all have a smug look about them - knowing that at any moment they can call upon their "steel battlecat" to devour the Winnipeg cars in front of them. And of course, they all have a decal of "Calvin and Hobbs" peeing on some competitor's line of trucks - a clear indication that if you followed this guy home you'd end up in the heart of Transcona. Not to mention, if he has his window down that you'll hear him blaring Power 97 - a radio station catered to Winnipeg's mullet population.
Oh well Winnipeggers, there is much humour to draw from these Neanderthals. As my wife and I joke, "whoa, look out people... we got a real man here." So to all you "real men" know that all you are is real annoying.
I am obsessed with having to get a visual of these drivers. Why... I don't know? Especially considering they all look the same. Of course they have a mustache because for some reason Big Men in Winnipeg all feel the need to sport a a small animal above their lip, somehow preserving their manhood. I often think these guys feel they can grow hair on their bodies by sure will - just because their hormones rage with such high levels of testosterone being such big men.
Next, they always have one hand hanging loosely over the rim of the steering wheel, so casual in their destruction of the flow of traffic. These He-men all have a smug look about them - knowing that at any moment they can call upon their "steel battlecat" to devour the Winnipeg cars in front of them. And of course, they all have a decal of "Calvin and Hobbs" peeing on some competitor's line of trucks - a clear indication that if you followed this guy home you'd end up in the heart of Transcona. Not to mention, if he has his window down that you'll hear him blaring Power 97 - a radio station catered to Winnipeg's mullet population.
Oh well Winnipeggers, there is much humour to draw from these Neanderthals. As my wife and I joke, "whoa, look out people... we got a real man here." So to all you "real men" know that all you are is real annoying.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Winnipeggers - I Can See You
Winnipeg, the world continues to get smaller and smaller. No longer can we enjoy the peace and serenity that comes with escaping the day-to-day grind. Why? Because our every move can be monitored. Drum roll please.... Google Latitude.
"Yes Boss, I am quite busy today on sales calls."
"Really... then why does Google Latitude show that you are at St. Boniface Golf Course?"
Let's try another example:
"Honey, its going to be a late night here at the office. I'll call you when I'm on my way home." Meanwhile, your significant other can see that you are parked at the local tavern, pushing the VLT's.
Yes, thanks to Google Latitude we can now montior an individual using their mobile phone and GPS satellites and cell towers. Of course you have to sign up for the service, but I can already see the family and work arguments emerging.
"Why wouldn't you want me to know where you are dear? Are you hiding something?"
"Mr. Suit don't you understand its important for our business to know that you are using the most efficient routes on your sales calls? You are on sales calls aren't you?"
I think the most disturbing thing I read was people talking about what a great tool it would be for parents to monitor their kids. Great... yet another tool to provide parents the freedom of remote parenting. Just check your cell phone to ensure your child is safe. Drop em off at daycare or school; check their location on your mobile phone every now and then; continue to enjoy your independence. Wow, parenting has never been so easy!
It's hard to say how this new technology will catch on, but with the way the world is moving toward more and more security from nasty terrorists - I'm sure they'll be big corporations to small Winnipeg business pushing this to their employees, and positioning it as "good for the company."
So Winnipeggers, enjoy your last days of freedom because the future of self-monitoring technology is upon us. Next step (which already exists in some companies) is embedding the RFID chip. Press your left temple for the internet - and your right temple for your favorite music selection.
You can no longer escape the grid Winnipeg. Big Brother is here - he's called Google.
"Yes Boss, I am quite busy today on sales calls."
"Really... then why does Google Latitude show that you are at St. Boniface Golf Course?"
Let's try another example:
"Honey, its going to be a late night here at the office. I'll call you when I'm on my way home." Meanwhile, your significant other can see that you are parked at the local tavern, pushing the VLT's.
Yes, thanks to Google Latitude we can now montior an individual using their mobile phone and GPS satellites and cell towers. Of course you have to sign up for the service, but I can already see the family and work arguments emerging.
"Why wouldn't you want me to know where you are dear? Are you hiding something?"
"Mr. Suit don't you understand its important for our business to know that you are using the most efficient routes on your sales calls? You are on sales calls aren't you?"
I think the most disturbing thing I read was people talking about what a great tool it would be for parents to monitor their kids. Great... yet another tool to provide parents the freedom of remote parenting. Just check your cell phone to ensure your child is safe. Drop em off at daycare or school; check their location on your mobile phone every now and then; continue to enjoy your independence. Wow, parenting has never been so easy!
It's hard to say how this new technology will catch on, but with the way the world is moving toward more and more security from nasty terrorists - I'm sure they'll be big corporations to small Winnipeg business pushing this to their employees, and positioning it as "good for the company."
So Winnipeggers, enjoy your last days of freedom because the future of self-monitoring technology is upon us. Next step (which already exists in some companies) is embedding the RFID chip. Press your left temple for the internet - and your right temple for your favorite music selection.
You can no longer escape the grid Winnipeg. Big Brother is here - he's called Google.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Winnipeggers "The Price" is Right
I am no theatre critic; so let's get that out of the way. However, I have held season tickets to both Manitoba Theatre Centres' Mainstage and Warehouse for three years now. My wife and I have been enjoying the majority of shows at the Mainstage - minus "Shakespeare's Dog" (anyone who saw this play will empathize with the hours this play stole from my life), but it's been really hit and miss at the Warehouse. Friday night our faith was renewed when watching the outstanding performances in Arthur Miller's "The Price."
I'm not about to break down each act, and give my opinion on the performance of each actor. This blog is purely a call to action. For anyone reading this that has been considering a night out at the theatre in Winnipeg - hurry - the play is only on until Saturday, Feb. 7, 2009. I guarantee you won't be disappointed. The play is quite timely to today's economic climate. I am certain anyone who sees this will be able to make parallels into their own lives, and be able to relate closely with one of the characters.
If you are complaining there is nothing to do in Winnipeg in the winter - you have no more excuses. Dust the snow off your car and make your way to the Exchange District to enjoy this incredible show.
I'm not about to break down each act, and give my opinion on the performance of each actor. This blog is purely a call to action. For anyone reading this that has been considering a night out at the theatre in Winnipeg - hurry - the play is only on until Saturday, Feb. 7, 2009. I guarantee you won't be disappointed. The play is quite timely to today's economic climate. I am certain anyone who sees this will be able to make parallels into their own lives, and be able to relate closely with one of the characters.
If you are complaining there is nothing to do in Winnipeg in the winter - you have no more excuses. Dust the snow off your car and make your way to the Exchange District to enjoy this incredible show.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
New Show on TLC not cool at all Winnipeg
Winnipeggers, I am asking for you to boycott. I was disgusted the other night while watching the cable network TLC. Every Friday night my wife enjoys watching "What Not To Wear" while I strum at the guitar, but the music stopped when an ad for their newest show aired.
"Toddlers and Tiaras" - a reality show behind the scenes of child beauty pageants. When is the world going to clue into how utterly disgusting it is to put young girls through this? Child and Family Services should lock these mothers away. I'm sorry if you grew up ugly or if you finished fourth at the Holeintheground, Alabama Beauty Pageant - but to teach your daughters the importance of vanity!?
Being in a beauty pageant once your in your late teens, early 20's...okay, no problem. There's vanity in all us. I know I look good. Not to mention, my wife and I were watching "What Not To Wear." My issue is not the idea of beauty pageants, its the horror of children in beauty pageants.
Without saying it...we all know which members of society are most excited about the pilot episode. Please Winnipeggers, email the station and complain, or at the very least, turn the channel.
"Toddlers and Tiaras" - a reality show behind the scenes of child beauty pageants. When is the world going to clue into how utterly disgusting it is to put young girls through this? Child and Family Services should lock these mothers away. I'm sorry if you grew up ugly or if you finished fourth at the Holeintheground, Alabama Beauty Pageant - but to teach your daughters the importance of vanity!?
Being in a beauty pageant once your in your late teens, early 20's...okay, no problem. There's vanity in all us. I know I look good. Not to mention, my wife and I were watching "What Not To Wear." My issue is not the idea of beauty pageants, its the horror of children in beauty pageants.
Without saying it...we all know which members of society are most excited about the pilot episode. Please Winnipeggers, email the station and complain, or at the very least, turn the channel.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Winnipeg Song Contest from Cool to Cold
I am a songwriter, so naturally when I saw the advertisement for a contest to write a song about Winnipeg, it caught my attention. I'm guessing with the recent success of Guy Maddin's "My Winnipeg" movie, we now feel the next step is to record a song that will bring the same level of respect to Winnipeg's music industry as we have recently gained in our film industry. Makes sense. What doesn't make sense is how they promote it.
The advertisement explains the competition, and when outlining the criteria for writing the song, once again the marketing geniuses looking to attract Winnipeg's most creative song writers cannot get through the advertisement without taking a shot at the city. I quote, "Remember the focus here is on Winnipeg: the good, the bad and the really freakin' cold."
Great... so when the artist begins reading the advertisement, and their creative juices begin flowing, the dam is quickly built, blocking all positive waters and allowing only the negative flow of ideas. Why wouldn't the ad provide suggestions on some of the positive things to write about, instead of focusing on the cold of winter?
Yes people there are four seasons! Get over it! Its cold in the winter. Wow... topic of conversation for a lifetime. I'd really like to take all the winter whiners and place them all in a pot of boiling water for 6 months, lid on, and ask them every day "hot enough for ya?"
Will I write a song about Winnipeg? Yes I will. At least this way I can turn it up real loud and not have to listen to the same rants about the cold over and over again by the same pathetic group of Winnipeggers that make the winter months seem longer and colder than they are.
Buy a toque and shut up!
Hey... not a bad song title.
The advertisement explains the competition, and when outlining the criteria for writing the song, once again the marketing geniuses looking to attract Winnipeg's most creative song writers cannot get through the advertisement without taking a shot at the city. I quote, "Remember the focus here is on Winnipeg: the good, the bad and the really freakin' cold."
Great... so when the artist begins reading the advertisement, and their creative juices begin flowing, the dam is quickly built, blocking all positive waters and allowing only the negative flow of ideas. Why wouldn't the ad provide suggestions on some of the positive things to write about, instead of focusing on the cold of winter?
Yes people there are four seasons! Get over it! Its cold in the winter. Wow... topic of conversation for a lifetime. I'd really like to take all the winter whiners and place them all in a pot of boiling water for 6 months, lid on, and ask them every day "hot enough for ya?"
Will I write a song about Winnipeg? Yes I will. At least this way I can turn it up real loud and not have to listen to the same rants about the cold over and over again by the same pathetic group of Winnipeggers that make the winter months seem longer and colder than they are.
Buy a toque and shut up!
Hey... not a bad song title.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Brendan Fehr - Hot and from Winnipeg
Trying to stay focused on what's cool in Winnipeg is tough when talking about Brendan Fehr, who recently won the Gemini award for the hottest canadian male tv star. (here's a clip of him receiving the award on YouTube) Though not originally from Winnipeg, Brendan spent his awkward years as a teen in Winnipeg, and got his start here doing some minor modeling for local catalogue companies.
On a trip to Vancouver in 1997 to visit his family, he approached a modelling agency in the hopes of landing some work. His potential for film and television was quickly noticed and within a week at his first audition he had landed a Guest Star role on "Breaker High" for UPN. From there he's added impressive credits with a co-lead role as Michael Guerin on the show Roswell - a show about teenage alien/human hybrids living in Roswell, New Mexico; a co-lead role in the first of the "Final Destination" movie franchise and; "Biker Boyz" for DreamWorks SKG, Co-Starring with Laurence Fishburne and Kid Rock, just to name a few.
Most currently, Brendan took on a recurring role with CSI: Miami as Dan Cooper and the lead in the independent film “The Other Side of the Tracks” produced by Harold and Karen Baldwin. Brendan is currently shooting and starring as Jake Stanton in ABC Family’s newest TV show “Samurai Girl”.
So ladies... if you have yet to meet this handsome ex-Winnipegger, now living the posh life in L.A., I suggest you click on the included hyperlinks or type him into Google. I'll bet he becomes the screen saver of choice, providing you all the warmth you'll need to survive yet another Winnipeg winter.
On a trip to Vancouver in 1997 to visit his family, he approached a modelling agency in the hopes of landing some work. His potential for film and television was quickly noticed and within a week at his first audition he had landed a Guest Star role on "Breaker High" for UPN. From there he's added impressive credits with a co-lead role as Michael Guerin on the show Roswell - a show about teenage alien/human hybrids living in Roswell, New Mexico; a co-lead role in the first of the "Final Destination" movie franchise and; "Biker Boyz" for DreamWorks SKG, Co-Starring with Laurence Fishburne and Kid Rock, just to name a few.
Most currently, Brendan took on a recurring role with CSI: Miami as Dan Cooper and the lead in the independent film “The Other Side of the Tracks” produced by Harold and Karen Baldwin. Brendan is currently shooting and starring as Jake Stanton in ABC Family’s newest TV show “Samurai Girl”.
So ladies... if you have yet to meet this handsome ex-Winnipegger, now living the posh life in L.A., I suggest you click on the included hyperlinks or type him into Google. I'll bet he becomes the screen saver of choice, providing you all the warmth you'll need to survive yet another Winnipeg winter.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)