The Hartford Informer » Entertainment

‘Casablanca’ double cast a healthy balance

Brandon Goncalves — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:59:36 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3860685" align="alignnone" width="345" caption="BILL DIRIENZO"][/caption] With the start of a new semester, comes the promise of lavish performances implemented by the talent and range of those Hartt School students who have worked diligently to bring their craft to life. Although we’ve been accustomed to the many productions, successfully executed by the Hartt School’s musical theater and acting divisions that have maximized last season’s repertoire, the vocal performance majors kick off this semester’s line-up of thespian magic with the comedic opera “The Hotel Casablanca.” “Hotel Casablanca” takes place in 1948 where the discovery of oil in Texas catapulted desperate farmers to new money. After being introduced to a plethora of eccentric characters ranging from a retired comedian turned butler to a Spanish bull breeder and an aspiring actress, we learn the opera surrounds a couple who gets themselves into quite the predicament through a series of hilarious mishaps and misunderstandings. Tallulah Carter, a former vaudeville dancer, is led to believe her husband, Tom, is engaging in adultery after a mysterious package is delivered to their home. With the help of her friend Lucy, the two write a letter to Tom under the alias of a mysterious woman inviting him to the Hotel Casablanca, a seedy establishment where men go to cheat on their wives. However, when Tom receives the letter, he assumes it was meant for his ranch manager, Tobias, and sends him to the infamous hotel instead. The remainder of Act I consists of additional story lines that excel into Act II, inducting more characters whose actions result in energy, outrageousness and a ton of laughs. With such a large assemblage of vocal performance majors, the production has been divided between two casts: one presenting on the Thursday and Saturday performances and a second cast operating Friday and Sunday. Thanks to Miguel Vasquez and Dean Murphy, both starring in the upcoming opera, we were given a better look into how the two casts were able to advance throughout the rehearsal process. Murphy, a sophomore who plays the “simpleton” Tobias, believes having the show double casted is a great thing. “It’s really nice to be able to talk with someone else who is studying the same role,” Murphy said. “It makes collaborating to make character decisions much easier when staging the opera.” It also helps that both casts have been rehearsing about five hours daily since Jan. 9, which continued well into the beginning of classes and start of the semester. Vasquez, a senior tackling the coveted role of Tom Carter for the Friday and Sunday performances, agrees with the idea of two casts especially when rehearsals vary from musical aspects, to coaching, staging, a review of the show and honing in on character development. “As they say, two heads are better than one,” Vasquez said. “Every performer has a different take on the same character. We each bring a different feel which makes both the characters and the process more interesting, not to mention our director really helps us get into characters and layering them up like an onion.” He also goes onto say, “It’s also helpful in terms of resting. Singing opera is an athletic acoustical form of art and listening is just as vital as actually practicing. A night off from performances will be a good thing during the show’s actual run.” Directed by phenomenal visionary Ron Luchsinger and conducted by Doris Lang Kosloff, “The Hotel Casablanca” runs from Feb. 2 to Feb. 5 in Millard Auditorium.

Book startup hits Hartford

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:49:57 +0000

Sophomore saves students some dough

[caption id="attachment_3860721" align="aligncenter" width="640" caption="(Andy Swetz | The Informer)"][/caption] To combat the steep textbook prices imposed by the University Bookstore, one student is offering relief in the form of a helpful website he created called BooksatHartford.com. Think of it as a virtual bargain hunter where prices are compared in real time and displayed in front of you for each class subject you look up. Searching and price checking are a thing of the past because Books @ Hartford does the work for you, for free. “It is a lot easier than Amazon alone because it’s unique to our University,” creator Jordan Haberman said. The sophomore and soon to be Business major is excited about the Hartford edition of the comparative website. “I got the idea from a mutual friend of Sean Haufler, the creator of Books @ Yale. He created the original and I wrote the code for the course catalog for Hartford, putting in the individual classes and books,” Haberman said. Aimed at simplifying the way students at the University search for and purchase their books, the website is an innovation that can prove to be a valuable resource. Comparing the Bookstore price with prices at Barnes & Noble as well as Amazon, the majority of the time it makes practical sense to order a book via the web versus surrendering extra cash to the Bookstore. A clean and simple concept, Books @ Hartford was created by students for students. “I want students to realize you can get books cheaper than the Bookstore and that our website is a good alternative to that,” Haberman said. Still in its early stages since being installed here at the University, Haberman launched the Hartford edition just two weeks before the start of the spring semester. Although the website bears the claim that it is not responsible for the accuracy of what books are required for any given class, a quick glance confirms that there are a few anomalies in the system such as the omission of a required text for a given class, information that Haberman gets directly from Self-Service Center. The website provides the gap between having one option and having the best option when it comes to pricing out the cheapest required text. Haberman hopes to spread his version of Books @ Hartford to as many students as possible to maximize the savings students can get. As far as University intervention into Haberman’s project, there has been none but he believes it should be the individual’s choice to use whatever means necessary to get the best deal, especially since the Bookstore mark up is so large.

Real Art Ways explores minds with ‘Science on Screen’

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:22:53 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3860671" align="alignnone" width="460" caption="Courtesy of Calicriticscorner.blogspot.com"][/caption] It is no easy feat to satisfy a happy couple and lonely single on the one day of the year that showing affection really counts, however Real Art Ways, in downtown Hartford, is hosting an event that puts a new spin on Valentine’s Day. Set for Feb. 14, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. Real Art Ways will host their “Science on Screen” series featuring the film “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” with guest speaker Nicole Dudukovic of Trinity College. Dudukovic, an Assistant Professor of Psychology at Trinity, will be equipped with the knowledge of how memories shape individuals from her recent research on the mechanics of memories. The film, released in 2004 and staring Jim Carey and Kate Winslet, explores how a recently separated couple use a fictional procedure to erase the memory of each other from their respective minds. It takes the mind erasing to begin its effects for the couple to realize that forgetting can be a detrimental and regrettable thing. “Science on Screen,” now in its seventh year, allows guest speakers to use films as a starting point to discuss any number of scientific topics and actively engage an audience in the field of expertise by a scientist. An appropriate and stimulating topic for Valentine’s Day, “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” explores the tragedy and brilliance that comes with the territory of falling in love. While most couples choose to spend Feb. 14 out to an elegant meal or by showering each other with gifts, Real Art Ways is offering an alternative that challenges participants to discover and share ideas about how memories really shape lives, especially those involving relationships. A different Valentine’s Day experience for sure, this special “Science on Screen” event only costs student .50 per ticket and will leave a lasting impression on even the most opposed to the consumer holiday. Real Art Ways has been providing Hartford with some of the most creative alternative styles of art since 1975. The organization celebrates all forms of art including movies, live performances, art exhibits and reading providing a fresh take on the arts in Hartford.

‘Lest We Forget’ paintings add history to Goodwin Cafe

Danielle Nielsen — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:22:16 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3860681" align="alignnone" width="460" caption="Andy Swetz"][/caption] The “Lest We Forget” exhibit that has been on display since Jan. 12 in the Mortensen Library features Robert Templeton’s work from his collection that highlights the struggle that African Americans endured during the civil rights movement. The late Templeton’s collection of work is fully titled “Lest We Forget: Images of the Black Civil Rights Movement.” Templeton lived through the civil rights movement and saw the cruelty play out in front of his own eyes. He first experienced the 1967 riots that broke out in Detroit. Templeton kept track of his observances in a sketchbook that eventually made it on the cover of “Time Magazine” on Aug. 4, 1967. This cover depicted the anguish, brutality and fires that occurred on Twelfth Street, Detroit. This piece and experience inspired Templeton to put this in art which then jumpstarted the collection, “Lest We Forget”, first being on display in 1986 at Emory University. Unlike many exhibits that we’re fortunate to have come to the university, it is not on display in a gallery. As students sip coffee in the Dorothy Goodwin Cafe, they may notice the elaborate oil paintings that start lining the wall. Templeton’s work is very life like. Some of the pieces include his piece “Detroit Riots” “Time Magazine” cover, which he was most noted for. Some of the other oil paintings that are on display include symbolic figures during the movement including Malcom X, Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks and Booker T. Washington. Another unique feature about this exhibit is that the artist Robert Templeton is not African American, like many would automatically assume. Seeing that this exhibit is a collection by a white artist truly shows the magnitude of the civil rights movement and how it even impacted whites that had lived through this time. Templeton’s pieces not only show the struggle that civil rights icons such as Martin Luther King Jr. endured, but really celebrate these icons and all that they’ve done during the movements. As Black History Month began this February, this exhibit is a way to relive history through Templeton’s vision. Although many people are familiar with the history behind the civil rights movement, it is another thing to view them through an art medium. The “Lest We Forget” exhibit will be on display through Feb. 29.

A Taste of Hartford is Back, change of pace in dining

Kelsey Sterling — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:57 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3860677" align="alignnone" width="301" caption="Courtesy of CTnow.com"][/caption] A Taste of Hartford, otherwise known as Hartford’s Restaurant Week, is back for winter 2012 and it is taking place from Jan. 23 to Feb. 5 consisting of 34 restaurants in the area which offer three-course menus for .12. Participating restaurants include Agave Grill, Black Bear Saloon, City Steam Brewery, The Tavern, and Wood-N-Tap, to name a few. The Greater Hartford Arts Council partnered with the Hartford Advocate presents the program. If you are interested in multi-course discount fine dining then prepare for two weeks of all you can eat for cheap. You can either choose from the wide variety of dinner specials, or stick to the traditional menu. With over 34 participating restaurants the options are virtually endless. Available dishes range from salads and soups to burgers, eggplant parmigiana, fettuccine alfredo and desserts. For such reasonable prices and delicious gourmet meals you can’t go wrong. Maybe there is a restaurant you heard was good or have wanted to try, and this is the perfect way to get a little taste of everything in your area. Simply have a look at the available online menus in order to get an idea of what you’d like to try, and pick and choose your meal. Why not even try something new each night? For prices like this you can afford to. So if you’re feeling extra hungry and maybe even extra thrifty come on downtown and get a little taste of Hartford.

Julia Nunes riding high, to play Conn.

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:40 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3860666" align="alignnone" width="460" caption="Courtesy of Americansongwriter.com"][/caption] Youtube renowned ukulele musician Julia Nunes is prepping for the release of her third studio album and is set to play The Space in Hamden, Conn. the day of her album release, Tuesday Feb. 28. The album, titled “Settle Down,” chronicles the extraordinary strides that fueled the ukulele powered cover song career of Nunes to her current position. On the verge of becoming a household name, Nunes’ down-to-earth and humorous approach to music is what sets her apart from her competition. A fun loving and energetic person, Nunes got her start broadcasting her versions of popular tunes from her college dorm room via the Youtube account “Jaaaaaaa.” In July 2011, Nunes created an account with Kickstarter, a website where users can promote independent projects and fans can donate a given amount and track the progress of an artist’s endeavors in return for a gift left up to the discretion of the artist. In her case, Nunes offered a digital download of the album for contributions all the way to a living room concert for any brave soul willing to give ,500. Nunes’ project was to raise money to record her album because she does so independently, and hit her goal of ,000 within a 24-hour time span. Within the 30-day span of allowable donations, Nunes raked in just over ,000. With dedicated fans backing her latest attempt at an 18-track album, the young musician got to work and recorded ”Settle Down,” keeping her “backers” on Kickstarter up to date the entire time. A prime example of the thousands of independent artists trying to make it on their own through social media websites such as Youtube and Tumblr, Nunes’ success can be attributed to her determination to make quality music and her drive to not give up. On Jan. 24 Nunes was invited to play her new single, “Stay Awake,” on “Conan”on TBS. Promoting her upcoming release, Nunes will play The Space in Hamden along side Connecticut native and fellow Youtuber Mike Falzone. Falzone, an independent musician who fuses comedy and music, is no stranger to the tiny venue housed in the basement of the Hamden building. Performing in Connecticut the night of her album release, Nunes is riding a culminating wave of personal success. Opening for artists such as Ben Folds, Ben Kweller and playing with Weezer, Nunes definitely has what it takes to become a staple of American pop music through her signature instrument, the ukulele. The music video for “Stay Awake” was released Jan. 23 and has already amassed a significant amount of views. Nunes’ powerful voice and clever song lyrics are propelling her to a life of Internet fame surviving on the genuine quality of songs she writes. The Feb. 28 show tickets are in advanced and the show begins at 7:00 p.m.

Falling in love with ‘The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo’

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:02 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3860657" align="alignnone" width="306" caption="Courtesy of Collider.com"][/caption] The 2011 film titled “The Girl With the Dragon Tatoo” directed by David Fincher, a remake of the 2009 Swedish version, is nominated for four Academy Awards this year, but that’s not what interests me. Both films are based on the “Millennium Trilogy” by the late Swede journalist Steig Larsson. Besides the fact that “The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo,” the first book in the trilogy, is the all-time top seller of e-books on the Amazon Kindle, it seems American audiences are still glued to the modern day mysteries, my self included. My interest in the series was indifferent before seeing Fincher’s rendition of the 2005 novel, however it was that film that got me hooked on the suspense fueled stories. Although the series went unpublished until after Larsson’s death, the similarities in the series’ protagonist Mikael Blomkvist and author Larsson are obviously blatant. What I think makes the stories so enticing to read is the simple fact that there hasn’t really been anything like them in American popular culture. Sure we get hit with remake after remake at the movie theaters of recycled plots but Larsson’s original and intricate stories evoke an interest that is hard to deny. So what is it exactly that makes “The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo” or any of the three books in the series so addicting? For starters there is a lot of sex, murder, corruption, controversy and psychological elements at work in the narratives. Larsson is no literary genius to be praised for centuries, but his books have got to be doing something right with the amount he has sold so far, which brings me to an important point, Larsson’s writing is something the average reader can comprehend. The simplicity of the language, although it was translated from Swedish, is very easy to wade through making the novels into quick reads, forcing readers to turn the pages. The Oscar nominated Fincher rendition of the first novel sticks pretty closely to the book, with various gaps throughout, which is to be expected when lifting a script from a thick book. Fincher definitely does the book justice and accurately portrays the major events of the book. Everyone that enjoys a solid mystery story will no doubt get attached to the series’ second protagonist, Lisabeth Salander. The lack of emotionality in the character of Salander attributed to her haunted past and combined with her extraordinary intellect makes for a twisted and interesting persona. The relationship between Blomkvist and Salander is one that not many people would expect and I think it is the unexpected chemistry between the two that fuel the human interest in Larsson’s creations. As a journalist, Larsson certainly knew how to cater to grabbing reader’s attention and running with it. An expert in the field of Nazi history, Larsson also put his personal intellect and vast knowledge to use to create the irresistible story that seems to be captivating readers nation wide. I personally enjoyed the series, although my semester’s required reading is putting a damper on my finishing the final book. I highly recommend the series to any curious skeptics because the simple fact is that the series is smart, very well told and intertwined in a way that prompts the reader to reveal the pieces of the puzzle.

Now playing at Cinestudio: ‘My Week with Marilyn’

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:20:03 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3860654" align="alignnone" width="306" caption="Courtesy of Movit.com"][/caption] Cinestudio, the movie theater located on the campus of Trinity College in Hartford, is currently screening the Academy Award nominated film “My Week with Marilyn.” Starring Michelle Williams as Marilyn Monroe, the British film depicts the famous actress filming the movie “The Prince and the Showgirl” in 1957. The premise revolves around Monroe and film assistant Colin Clark, played by Eddie Redmayne, and the week Clark spent escorting her around the city of London between filming the movie. In the absence of her husband Arthur Miller, Monroe spends time with Clark to avoid the set of her latest film. “My Week With Marilyn” is based on Clark’s book titled “The Prince, The Showgirl, and Me” and “My Week with Marilyn,” both real accounts of Clarks encounters with one of the most famous women to grace a movie screen. The film has been nominated for a number of Oscars including Best Actress in a Lead Role for Michelle Williams’ portrayal of Monroe. UHa students pay a price of .00 per ticket with University ID. The film will be at Cinestudios through Saturday, Feb. 4.

Below the fold: love can breed jealous aggression

Spencer Allan Brooks — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 01:24:28 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3860662" align="alignnone" width="460" caption="Courtesy of Flickr.com"][/caption] Karma can be a bitch, but apparently so can love too. Not to lovers, but innocent bystanders; as long as said bystander is hot. That’s according to a new study by researchers at Florida State University. The study suggests that when you’re in love, or have amorous feelings, you’re more likely to be aggressive toward members of the same sex. The study looked at 130 undergraduate students at FSU who were in heterosexual relationships. Researchers had participants recall stories about their boyfriend or girlfriend where they felt very much in love or had an intense sexual desire for them. These stories were supposed to bring up positive feelings about their partner. Researchers then had the students play a video game. They were shown a picture of who they were told was their same-sex opponent; that someone being very attractive and perceived as competition in the dating game. Participants were told that whoever lost would get blasted with loud white noise and the winner could determine how loud that noise would be and long it would last. What psychologists found was astounding. People who were asked to bring up feelings of love toward their boyfriend or girlfriend blasted their “attractive opponent” longer and louder and with a much harsher attitude than those who were not primed with feelings of love. “Love, arguably the most positive of all human emotions, also comes with a dark side,” study researcher Jon Maner, who himself is attractive to the point of “threatening,” told reporters at the annual meeting of the Society for Personality and Social Psychology. Why does this matter? Well, it give psychologists a new view into how we act when (we think) we’re in love. If you’re in a long-term relationship you may feel that you’re out of the dating game, but this study suggests that jealousy and competition still thrive in the loins of sweethearts and snookums. And it doesn’t matter if you’re the jealous type or not. Researchers quizzed the students to rate their jealousy levels. For example, one question was: “How likely are you to surprise-visit your partner to see who is with him/her?” What they found was they could easily sort out the green-eyed monsters from the more laid-back types. No matter what side of the envy spectrum someone was on, if they were in love, they acted like a douche-bag. Self insecurities are most likely the culprit for why people are this way. Just watch out if you’re a good-looking undergrad out on Valentine’s Day. All those happy couples could just be ready to pounce.

Spencer Allan Brooks is a Senior at the University of Hartford and Art Director for The Informer. Aside from designing visual elements for the publication, he writes the weekly sex column, "Below the fold," and contributes to the entertainment and news sections. Have a question or comment? Email him and be sure to follow him on twitter

B.O.B, Sam Adams and more to headline Spring Fling 2012

Brandon Goncalves — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:59:36 +0000

Book startup hits Hartford

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:49:57 +0000

Sophomore saves students some dough

Real Art Ways explores minds with ‘Science on Screen’

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:22:53 +0000

‘Lest We Forget’ paintings add history to Goodwin Cafe

Danielle Nielsen — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:22:16 +0000

A Taste of Hartford is Back, change of pace in dining

Kelsey Sterling — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:57 +0000

Julia Nunes riding high, to play Conn.

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:40 +0000

Falling in love with ‘The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo’

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:02 +0000

Now playing at Cinestudio: ‘My Week with Marilyn’

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:20:03 +0000

Below the fold: love can breed jealous aggression

Spencer Allan Brooks — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 01:24:28 +0000

B.O.B, Sam Adams and more to headline Spring Fling 2012

Brandon Goncalves — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:59:36 +0000

The Hartford Informer » Entertainment

Brandon Goncalves — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:59:36 +0000

Book startup hits Hartford

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:49:57 +0000

Sophomore saves students some dough

Real Art Ways explores minds with ‘Science on Screen’

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:22:53 +0000

‘Lest We Forget’ paintings add history to Goodwin Cafe

Danielle Nielsen — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:22:16 +0000

A Taste of Hartford is Back, change of pace in dining

Kelsey Sterling — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:57 +0000

Julia Nunes riding high, to play Conn.

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:40 +0000

Falling in love with ‘The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo’

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:02 +0000

Now playing at Cinestudio: ‘My Week with Marilyn’

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:20:03 +0000

Below the fold: love can breed jealous aggression

Spencer Allan Brooks — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 01:24:28 +0000

B.O.B, Sam Adams and more to headline Spring Fling 2012

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:49:57 +0000

Sophomore saves students some dough

The Hartford Informer » Entertainment

Brandon Goncalves — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:59:36 +0000

Book startup hits Hartford

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:49:57 +0000

Sophomore saves students some dough

Real Art Ways explores minds with ‘Science on Screen’

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:22:53 +0000

‘Lest We Forget’ paintings add history to Goodwin Cafe

Danielle Nielsen — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:22:16 +0000

A Taste of Hartford is Back, change of pace in dining

Kelsey Sterling — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:57 +0000

Julia Nunes riding high, to play Conn.

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:40 +0000

Falling in love with ‘The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo’

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:02 +0000

Now playing at Cinestudio: ‘My Week with Marilyn’

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:20:03 +0000

Below the fold: love can breed jealous aggression

Spencer Allan Brooks — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 01:24:28 +0000

B.O.B, Sam Adams and more to headline Spring Fling 2012

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:22:53 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3860671" align="alignnone" width="460" caption="Courtesy of Calicriticscorner.blogspot.com"][/caption] It is no easy feat to satisfy a happy couple and lonely single on the one day of the year that showing affection really counts, however Real Art Ways, in downtown Hartford, is hosting an event that puts a new spin on Valentine’s Day. Set for Feb. 14, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. Real Art Ways will host their “Science on Screen” series featuring the film “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” with guest speaker Nicole Dudukovic of Trinity College. Dudukovic, an Assistant Professor of Psychology at Trinity, will be equipped with the knowledge of how memories shape individuals from her recent research on the mechanics of memories. The film, released in 2004 and staring Jim Carey and Kate Winslet, explores how a recently separated couple use a fictional procedure to erase the memory of each other from their respective minds. It takes the mind erasing to begin its effects for the couple to realize that forgetting can be a detrimental and regrettable thing. “Science on Screen,” now in its seventh year, allows guest speakers to use films as a starting point to discuss any number of scientific topics and actively engage an audience in the field of expertise by a scientist. An appropriate and stimulating topic for Valentine’s Day, “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” explores the tragedy and brilliance that comes with the territory of falling in love. While most couples choose to spend Feb. 14 out to an elegant meal or by showering each other with gifts, Real Art Ways is offering an alternative that challenges participants to discover and share ideas about how memories really shape lives, especially those involving relationships. A different Valentine’s Day experience for sure, this special “Science on Screen” event only costs student $4.50 per ticket and will leave a lasting impression on even the most opposed to the consumer holiday. Real Art Ways has been providing Hartford with some of the most creative alternative styles of art since 1975. The organization celebrates all forms of art including movies, live performances, art exhibits and reading providing a fresh take on the arts in Hartford.

The Hartford Informer » Entertainment

Brandon Goncalves — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:59:36 +0000

Book startup hits Hartford

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:49:57 +0000

Sophomore saves students some dough

Real Art Ways explores minds with ‘Science on Screen’

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:22:53 +0000

‘Lest We Forget’ paintings add history to Goodwin Cafe

Danielle Nielsen — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:22:16 +0000

A Taste of Hartford is Back, change of pace in dining

Kelsey Sterling — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:57 +0000

Julia Nunes riding high, to play Conn.

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:40 +0000

Falling in love with ‘The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo’

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:02 +0000

Now playing at Cinestudio: ‘My Week with Marilyn’

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:20:03 +0000

Below the fold: love can breed jealous aggression

Spencer Allan Brooks — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 01:24:28 +0000

B.O.B, Sam Adams and more to headline Spring Fling 2012

Danielle Nielsen — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:22:16 +0000

The Hartford Informer » Entertainment

Brandon Goncalves — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:59:36 +0000

Book startup hits Hartford

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:49:57 +0000

Sophomore saves students some dough

Real Art Ways explores minds with ‘Science on Screen’

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:22:53 +0000

‘Lest We Forget’ paintings add history to Goodwin Cafe

Danielle Nielsen — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:22:16 +0000

A Taste of Hartford is Back, change of pace in dining

Kelsey Sterling — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:57 +0000

Julia Nunes riding high, to play Conn.

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:40 +0000

Falling in love with ‘The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo’

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:02 +0000

Now playing at Cinestudio: ‘My Week with Marilyn’

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:20:03 +0000

Below the fold: love can breed jealous aggression

Spencer Allan Brooks — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 01:24:28 +0000

B.O.B, Sam Adams and more to headline Spring Fling 2012

Kelsey Sterling — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:57 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3860677" align="alignnone" width="301" caption="Courtesy of CTnow.com"][/caption] A Taste of Hartford, otherwise known as Hartford’s Restaurant Week, is back for winter 2012 and it is taking place from Jan. 23 to Feb. 5 consisting of 34 restaurants in the area which offer three-course menus for $20.12. Participating restaurants include Agave Grill, Black Bear Saloon, City Steam Brewery, The Tavern, and Wood-N-Tap, to name a few. The Greater Hartford Arts Council partnered with the Hartford Advocate presents the program. If you are interested in multi-course discount fine dining then prepare for two weeks of all you can eat for cheap. You can either choose from the wide variety of dinner specials, or stick to the traditional menu. With over 34 participating restaurants the options are virtually endless. Available dishes range from salads and soups to burgers, eggplant parmigiana, fettuccine alfredo and desserts. For such reasonable prices and delicious gourmet meals you can’t go wrong. Maybe there is a restaurant you heard was good or have wanted to try, and this is the perfect way to get a little taste of everything in your area. Simply have a look at the available online menus in order to get an idea of what you’d like to try, and pick and choose your meal. Why not even try something new each night? For prices like this you can afford to. So if you’re feeling extra hungry and maybe even extra thrifty come on downtown and get a little taste of Hartford.

The Hartford Informer » Entertainment

Brandon Goncalves — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:59:36 +0000

Book startup hits Hartford

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:49:57 +0000

Sophomore saves students some dough

Real Art Ways explores minds with ‘Science on Screen’

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:22:53 +0000

‘Lest We Forget’ paintings add history to Goodwin Cafe

Danielle Nielsen — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:22:16 +0000

A Taste of Hartford is Back, change of pace in dining

Kelsey Sterling — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:57 +0000

Julia Nunes riding high, to play Conn.

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:40 +0000

Falling in love with ‘The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo’

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:02 +0000

Now playing at Cinestudio: ‘My Week with Marilyn’

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:20:03 +0000

Below the fold: love can breed jealous aggression

Spencer Allan Brooks — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 01:24:28 +0000

B.O.B, Sam Adams and more to headline Spring Fling 2012

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:40 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3860666" align="alignnone" width="460" caption="Courtesy of Americansongwriter.com"][/caption] Youtube renowned ukulele musician Julia Nunes is prepping for the release of her third studio album and is set to play The Space in Hamden, Conn. the day of her album release, Tuesday Feb. 28. The album, titled “Settle Down,” chronicles the extraordinary strides that fueled the ukulele powered cover song career of Nunes to her current position. On the verge of becoming a household name, Nunes’ down-to-earth and humorous approach to music is what sets her apart from her competition. A fun loving and energetic person, Nunes got her start broadcasting her versions of popular tunes from her college dorm room via the Youtube account “Jaaaaaaa.” In July 2011, Nunes created an account with Kickstarter, a website where users can promote independent projects and fans can donate a given amount and track the progress of an artist’s endeavors in return for a gift left up to the discretion of the artist. In her case, Nunes offered a digital download of the album for $10 contributions all the way to a living room concert for any brave soul willing to give $2,500. Nunes’ project was to raise money to record her album because she does so independently, and hit her goal of $15,000 within a 24-hour time span. Within the 30-day span of allowable donations, Nunes raked in just over $77,000. With dedicated fans backing her latest attempt at an 18-track album, the young musician got to work and recorded ”Settle Down,” keeping her “backers” on Kickstarter up to date the entire time. A prime example of the thousands of independent artists trying to make it on their own through social media websites such as Youtube and Tumblr, Nunes’ success can be attributed to her determination to make quality music and her drive to not give up. On Jan. 24 Nunes was invited to play her new single, “Stay Awake,” on “Conan”on TBS. Promoting her upcoming release, Nunes will play The Space in Hamden along side Connecticut native and fellow Youtuber Mike Falzone. Falzone, an independent musician who fuses comedy and music, is no stranger to the tiny venue housed in the basement of the Hamden building. Performing in Connecticut the night of her album release, Nunes is riding a culminating wave of personal success. Opening for artists such as Ben Folds, Ben Kweller and playing with Weezer, Nunes definitely has what it takes to become a staple of American pop music through her signature instrument, the ukulele. The music video for “Stay Awake” was released Jan. 23 and has already amassed a significant amount of views. Nunes’ powerful voice and clever song lyrics are propelling her to a life of Internet fame surviving on the genuine quality of songs she writes. The Feb. 28 show tickets are $10 in advanced and the show begins at 7:00 p.m.

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Julia Nunes riding high, to play Conn.

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Spencer Allan Brooks — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 01:24:28 +0000

B.O.B, Sam Adams and more to headline Spring Fling 2012

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:02 +0000

The Hartford Informer » Entertainment

Brandon Goncalves — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:59:36 +0000

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Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:49:57 +0000

Sophomore saves students some dough

Real Art Ways explores minds with ‘Science on Screen’

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:22:53 +0000

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Danielle Nielsen — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:22:16 +0000

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Kelsey Sterling — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:57 +0000

Julia Nunes riding high, to play Conn.

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:40 +0000

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Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:02 +0000

Now playing at Cinestudio: ‘My Week with Marilyn’

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:20:03 +0000

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Spencer Allan Brooks — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 01:24:28 +0000

B.O.B, Sam Adams and more to headline Spring Fling 2012

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:20:03 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3860654" align="alignnone" width="306" caption="Courtesy of Movit.com"][/caption] Cinestudio, the movie theater located on the campus of Trinity College in Hartford, is currently screening the Academy Award nominated film “My Week with Marilyn.” Starring Michelle Williams as Marilyn Monroe, the British film depicts the famous actress filming the movie “The Prince and the Showgirl” in 1957. The premise revolves around Monroe and film assistant Colin Clark, played by Eddie Redmayne, and the week Clark spent escorting her around the city of London between filming the movie. In the absence of her husband Arthur Miller, Monroe spends time with Clark to avoid the set of her latest film. “My Week With Marilyn” is based on Clark’s book titled “The Prince, The Showgirl, and Me” and “My Week with Marilyn,” both real accounts of Clarks encounters with one of the most famous women to grace a movie screen. The film has been nominated for a number of Oscars including Best Actress in a Lead Role for Michelle Williams’ portrayal of Monroe. UHa students pay a price of $7.00 per ticket with University ID. The film will be at Cinestudios through Saturday, Feb. 4.

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Brandon Goncalves — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:59:36 +0000

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Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:49:57 +0000

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Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:22:53 +0000

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Julia Nunes riding high, to play Conn.

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:40 +0000

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Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:02 +0000

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Spencer Allan Brooks — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 01:24:28 +0000

B.O.B, Sam Adams and more to headline Spring Fling 2012

Spencer Allan Brooks — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 01:24:28 +0000

The Hartford Informer » Entertainment

Brandon Goncalves — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:59:36 +0000

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Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:49:57 +0000

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Real Art Ways explores minds with ‘Science on Screen’

Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:22:53 +0000

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Danielle Nielsen — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:22:16 +0000

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Kelsey Sterling — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:57 +0000

Julia Nunes riding high, to play Conn.

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Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:21:02 +0000

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Andy Swetz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:20:03 +0000

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Spencer Allan Brooks — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 01:24:28 +0000

B.O.B, Sam Adams and more to headline Spring Fling 2012

Sarah Wilson — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 18:21:38 +0000

[caption id="attachment_386030" align="alignright" width="280" caption="Spencer Allan Brooks"][/caption] Four artists including B.O.B, Ludacris, Wale and Sam Adams will headline this year's Spring Fling concert. Campus Activities Team announced the "fantastic four" lineup Monday afternoon on their Twitter page. The structure of the typical Saturday night concert was modified this year as a way for CAT to deliver to Hartford students what they had been asking for for some time now. "What people have been wanting for the past few years has been different than what they've been getting," said Aaron Kudler, the concert and comedy chair for CAT. This year, the main concert, featuring B.O.B., Ludacris and Wale will be held on Friday night in the Reich Family Pavilion. The show is $25 dollars for students who wish to attend, $30 for graduate students and alumni and $40 for non-university guests. The fee for students, a change from last year, was made in response to a survey sent to students at the beginning of the year regarding Spring Fling, one question specifically asking if students would be willing to pay for a ticket in order to get bigger artists. "Roughly 80 percent of students said yes, clearly more than half," said Kudler. In addition to the Friday concert, in an effort to satisfy students' wishes that the concert be held on the Village lawn, a free show will take place Saturday night featuring Sam Adams, who, according to Kudler, there was a strong push for last year even though he wasn't on the initial artist survey. This year, each artist that will be performing was on the survey, a complaint students often made in years past when the performing artists didn't align with their votes. Campus Activities Team took the surveys into consideration, and when they saw that the different categories of artists were neck-and-neck, they tried to choose the most popular of each grouping of artists. The annual battle of the bands, as well as more local artists, and activities on the lawn will still be held throughout the day on Friday and Saturday. Spring Fling will take place this year April 19 through 21.