Wainwright Does it Right

Rufus Wainwright
The Centre in Vancouver
November 26th, 2010

The Vancouver Sun Review
Photographs from the evening

Upon entering the theatre hall the opener Teddy Thompson was already on stage.
I was excited to see what Rufus had planned for that evening. The first half would be an applaudless performance with enticing projections on a huge backdrop. The songs performed were, I felt a commemoration to his mother, Kate McGarrigle who passed away early this year. A grand piano, and a spot-light on a caped Rufus Wainwright were the only visuals on stage, with the addition of the projections of a gothic, dark eye, opening and closing. In a word, the imagery was eerie. His performance included songs from his most recent release All Days Are Nights: Songs For Lulu. I admittedly had not heard it, but was pleasantly surprised at his earnest performance, it was dramatic and emotional. His musicality, vocals and piano = Perfect.

In the second portion of the night, we applauded after every song. The stage was littered with candles, romantic. He played favourites and crowd pleasers as a lone performer at his piano. In truth, all he needs is his piano and voice. It was outstanding, his range of vocals and melodies. It was a more light performance in contrast to his caped persona. He came out in an outfit that screamed "I'm right here!" and sang songs that commanded us to listen, watch and wait intently for that one line that would lead to to applause. His energy was contagious, his charm and wit between songs made the audience chuckle. The night was full of class and operatic-like tunes from Rufus.
Even when he was pulling a nose hair out of his nose.... he still has class, all bundled up into what makes an envious talent.

Rufus is a true performer who adds just enough drama to keep listeners wanting more.
He is on a North American Tour --- Check for dates on his website HERE

Stories of the American Life

This American Life

Stories became important to me when I realized that they are all we are. We as people accumulate stories through our everyday interactions. And these hopefully one day will entice someone to find interest in us. Our stories are what give us depth, meaning and purpose.
Without Stories what would we have? But empty minds and routined actions.

I was on a book adventure, reading all the books I thought should be read. Mostly Augusten Burroughs, David Sedaris, and Joan Didion novels. I soon became tired of reading and wanted to hear the stories.

I began listening to this podcast a little over 2 years ago, I happened upon it one day and without knowing what to expect I heard the voice of Ira Glass, the host of the Chicago Public Radio Station. He began with a story about two people on the search for happiness. My first and soon to be favourite podcast to listen to.

The stories are first-person short fiction pieces that are touching, funny and surprising.
Each week, Ira Glass never fails to point out and reveal something hidden or so blateantly obvious about the human condition and the humanity we all seek and try to preserve.

Listen here: or subscribe to the podcast on iTunes!

Favourite podcast stories include: #75 Kindness of Strangers, #374 Somewhere Out There, #347 Matchmaker