Merry!

Had such a wonderful Christmas!  Have to say, the two highlights were watching the niece and nephews open and enjoy their gifts, and getting to spend some quality time with my best friend after the festivities wound down.  A great day!  Very blessed!

Paging Dr. Hayward...

That's right, dastardly Dr. David Hayward is set to bring his unique brand of trouble back to Pine Valley.  Vincent Irizarry took to Twitter to announce that he's jumped aboard, and is planning a ride on the reboot train.  While it's definitely awesome news, the last line of the announcement made me uneasy.

"Let's all keep our fingers crossed together that it becomes a reality."

What exactly does this mean?  I honestly don't think I can take another "close, but no cigar" situation.  I should think that those agreeing to sign contracts would be given some sort of financial guarantee.  If not, at least reasonable assurance that this thing actually gets off the ground.  Please, PP, no more games.

Related, there are reports that Prospect Park has finally extended an olive branch to The Writers Guild Of America.  Glad they realized that all other avenues lead to slim pickings at the bottom of the barrel.  Hopefully, come the first of the year, the long-awaited announcement of a union will be made.

Quote Of The Moment...

"Sometimes it feels bigger than it actually is."

-Jill Rock

Love Him!

Tracie got him for me for Christmas!  Awesome!  Up to 39 now!

Santa Dixie!

She's so over all the holiday festivities!

Think It Through...

Solicitation!

First Signing!

In my post earlier today, I said that I'd have more confidence in the possibility of a bright future for the planned reboot of my favorite show once actors and actresses began signing on the dotted line.  Apparently, someone was listening, and wanted to appease my doubts.  Lindsay Hartley has signed on to reprise Dr. Cara Castillo when All My Children begins its new chapter.  This is awesome news!  Have been a fan of Lindsay from the moment I saw her over a decade ago, and saw such potential in the character the first time around.  Hopefully, this first great get will lead to many more.

Huge Developments!

Prospect Park has named Ginger Smith as Executive Producer of All My Children.  If she rings a bell, it's because she was involved with the show for twenty years.  Kudos to PP for finding someone with experience and dedication.

The way it's looking now, the show will run for thirty minutes Monday-Thursday, with a recap episode on Fridays.  Have to say, I think this is very smart, and extremely cost effective.  Speaking of money, in an interesting little twist, AMC's television licensing fee will be slightly higher than One Life To Live.  Don't know exactly what that says, but find it curious nonetheless.

For those excited with the possibility of our show moving production back to New York City in order to entice certain actors and actresses back, I'm sorry.  It appears as though Pine Valley has found a new home in Connecticut.  From the bit of research I've done, it's a good place to produce shows with a strict budget.  Given its relative proximity to The Big Apple, I'm hoping it not too much of a stretch to see some familiar faces.

While I was skeptical and dismissive at first, things seem to be moving full steam in the right direction.  Will be even more excited and hopeful when casting announcements start being made, and a head writer is positioned.

Awesome!

Found this on We Love Soaps!  Have never seen it before!  So amazing!  Cast photo from 1975!  Wow!

Lucci?

In their effort to revive All My Children, Prospect Park has reached out to daytime's biggest star.  A friend of Susan Lucci has confirmed that there are ongoing talks between the two sides that could find her reprising iconic Erica Kane.  Loving the character as much as she does, I'd imagine that Lucci would jump at the chance.  On Prospect's end, I'm pleased to see them making contact this time around.  Hopefully, the attempt to come to terms will erase some of the memory of the horribly disrespectful way she was treated last time, and score points with Susan.  Apparently, word of negotiations wasn't supposed to be public knowledge just yet.  I hope this is all on the real.

Resurrection? Hope?

Daytime Confidential is reporting that Prospect Park has officially renewed its plans to resurrect All My Children and One Life To Live.  Several reports say that production of the revived Sudsters will begin sometime in the first quarter of 2013.  Representatives for The Screen Actors Guild, and The Directors Guild Of America have confirmed that deals have been reached between all parties.  Word is, PP is looking to completely sidestep The Writers Guild Of America in favor of Fi-Core scribes.  Stay tuned.

As expected, and rightfully so, there are those dismissing all of this as nothing but a stunt.  Apparently, ABC has shown interest in seeing if CPR can be done.  Skeptics seem to think that the only reason Prospect Park has renewed licensing is to deny The Mouse House ability to capitalize on the current resurgence of daytime drama.

All right, time for my two cents.  All about honesty.  Against my better judgment, I'm cautiously optimistic.  With the major deals described above locked in, it seems things are moving further then last time.  These developments have been hinted at for weeks by reputable sources, so I think there may be something brewing.

Can't Say I'm Upset...

Last night, via his Twitter, Scott Reeves broke the news of his being fired.  As the headline of this post indicates, I won't be crying.  From what I've heard for years, Steven Lars Webber is an important part of GH.  Since being brought back to the canvas, he hasn't done all that much.  Who knows?  The several writing regimes may have been uninspired to create for the character because of Reeves' wooden, often stoic take.  No word regarding intention to recast, but expect a final airdate in February.

Quote Of The Moment...

"To have ego means to believe in your own strengths"

-Barbra Streisand

AWWWWWWWWW!!!

Closing!

Have to say, I'm absolutely shocked!  Though Evita was set to continue with new leads after the departure of the three original on January 26th, the production will close instead.  I can't believe I just dictated that last sentence.  Apparently, the task of finding worthy replacements is impossible.  All right, let's be honest.  While that's the official line being given, I don't believe it.  I know Ricky was a huge draw initially, but the show is strong enough to stand without him.  As for Elena, with acting ability and vocal chops sorely lacking, I should think she'd be relatively easy to recast.  Why would a show regularly exceeding $1 Million in weekly sales be brought out to pasture and shot in the head?  Don't know.  Think there might be something else at work here.  So very sad.

When the curtain falls for a final time, The Broadway Revival of Evita will have played 26 previews, and 337 regular performances.

I'll always have the incredible memories of this production being the center of my first trip to New York City.  No amount of shady reasons can take them away.

So Handsome!

New!

Mom picked these up for me.  Love them!  The one on the bottom looks like he belongs on The Island Of Misfit Toys.

Rockin' The Do!

Red Plum.  Jury is still out...

Quote Of The Moment...

"You won't line your pockets with boredom."

-Nicole Bonnet

All Dressed Up!

Old girl doesn't clean up half bad.

Nice One!

Sara took this with her Samsung Galaxy S III.  Love it!

Turnover...

The names on the Evita marquee will soon be different.  A couple of days ago, it was announced that current stars Elena Roger, Ricky Martin, and Michael Cerveris will take final bows on January 26, 2013.  Personally, I'm looking forward to the change.  I think the show needs a breath of fresh air that only a new cast can bring.  No word yet as to who will assume the roles.  Unfortunately, to keep audiences packing the theatre, I think Che will have to be stunt cast with a celebrity again.  Will detail full casting when the announcement is made.

Grateful!

Happy Thanksgiving, all!  Count your blessings, and surround yourself with loved ones!

Early!

Christmas shopping done!  All in one shot, too!  Had such an awesome time with Tracie!  Picked up a couple of gifts at Barnes And Noble.  Has been years since I'd been inside.  Very overwhelming place.  Could spend hours there!  Finished the list up at Walmart.  May find I need odds and ends, but the principles are set.  So good to feel that stressful weight lifted from my shoulders early!

First...

Auntie snapped this while he was in the middle of enjoying his first lollipop.  Only got a couple of licks before his mother realized what was happening, and replaced the sweet treat with a teething toy.  Bummer!

Quote Of The Moment...

"In hindsight, everyone's a genius."

-Axl Rotten

Quote Of The Moment...

"I'm gonna miss you like a child misses their blanket, but I've gotta get a move on with my life."

-Big Girls Don't Cry-Fergie

Yet Another...

That's right, my special friend has made me another Afghan!  Isn't it just beautiful?!  Big thanks!  Love it!

Quote Of The Moment...

"My heart was branded, while my senses stood by."

-Sarah-Jefferson Starship

Worried...

While the world is slowly rebounding from an economic crisis, professional wrestling is in the midst of the worst downward trend I've ever seen.  It's incredibly frustrating to have to watch three different products in order to feel satisfied.

WWE, the biggest company in the game, doesn't know which end is up.  In the face of an unfortunate injury to their top star, I hoped to see someone young, hungry, and deserving get a push.  How wonderful would it have been to see Dolph Ziggler or Wade Barrett be given a chance to run with the ball?  Who knows, maybe one of them would have caught fire.  Instead?  Ryback.  No charisma whatsoever, a repertoire of moves that make John Cena's look like Shawn Michaels', and the natural in-ring ability of a sloth.  Really makes me want to buy tickets.  If I were to really get rolling, I'd mention inconsistencies around every corner, storylines so bad whomever conceived of them should be shot, shameful writing, and a chairman who hasn't known what makes a quality product in over a decade.  But, I won't waste space.  So terrible.

One major problem with ROH.  Jim Cornette booked as if it were the early 1970s.  Maybe now, with someone new at the helm, pace will pick up.

What to say about TNA?  While in-ring action is consistently better than WWE, major problems still need addressing.  How am I supposed to invest completely when half of the roster acts as though they'd rather be doing anything else?  Along that same line, regularly botched spots are incredibly distracting, absolutely unnecessary, and detract from enjoyment immensely.  The Impact Zone is a huge problem.  TNA can't afford to travel, and is stuck producing shows on an unevenly lit, low budget soundstage.  Cut unnecessary expenses, and get out of there as soon as possible.  One last thing.  I'm all for having a loyal fanbase.  It's one of the most important aspects of keeping a promotion afloat.  However, when the same crowd attends every week, enthusiasm is bound to wane, and complacency set in.  Not the best thing to expose to your television audience.

Thank God for independent promotions like Dragon Gate USA and Evolve.  They keep my faith in the thing I love most in the world from dying.

Quote Of The Moment...

"Once you see, you can't unsee."

-Epilogue-Carrie: The Musical

Disappointed!

 

I can't believe it!  I just realized I never made a final post about season 9!  Come to think of it, I didn't write about it much at all.  I don't know, just didn't feel as emotionally invested as I have in the past.  Maybe it's because, as soon as I got attached to someone, they were voted off.  I also felt, specifically in relation to Cyrus, that better dancers were being sacrificed in order for him to stay, and draw ratings.

Anywho, Eliana and Chehon won.  They are amazing dancers, and deserved it.  Let's hope, when next season rolls around, I rediscover my passion for this great show!

I Love Lucy!

Pop the cork, and pass the bubbly!  Awesome casting news just keeps coming!  Lynn Herring is bringing Lucy back to PC!  I can't tell you how excited I am.  Though my history with the character is from the vampire-infested spinoff, my television screen will be better for her being on it again.  While details about length of stay remain under wraps, we know that Lucy returns home just in time for The Nurses Ball!  That's right, Ron and Frank have resurrected the beloved event!  How genius are they?!  No one can ever accuse them of not respecting the history of this show!  Such amazing awesomeness!

Quote Of The Moment...

"Nobody dies from a scar."

-The World According To Chris-Carrie: The Musical

Ninja!

Looks pretty intimidating to me!  Bet he scared up plenty of candy!

Very Creative!

A hunter, sitting in a tree.  Waiting for just the right moment...

A Little Different...

Found this.  It's a slight variation of the ads I've seen.

Scrat!

Had a Halloween party on Sunday.  Nephews came dressed up in their costumes.  Wasn't able to get a picture of the oldest as a ninja, but got this one of his brother as Scrat from the Ice Age movies.  You can't see it, but he even as a bushy tail!

Casting!

Constance Towers is set to bring super, if not geriatric, villain Helena back to Port Charles!  No jumping for joy over here.  The couple of times I've seen the character, it's all too mustache-twirling cartoonary for me.  Seriously, people.  How scared are we supposed to be by a senior citizen brandishing a dull butter knife?  Let's get real.  Hope this return visit is quick and final.

Another tidbit.  Tristan Rogers is bringing Robert home!  I'm very excited about this.  Luke + Anna + Duke + Robert + Robin = EXPLOSION!  Promises to be EPIC!

No dates announced for either return.

AWWWWWWWWW!!!

Meet Priscilla!  Parents got her, and her brother, Peter, last week!  So adorable!

Always Proofread!

My cousin got a text from her sister last night.  She sent it using a text-to-speech app

"Joe I don't know if you coming home before work Osama think any toilet of you have any my god like feeling funny so it's taking a little bit talk Avenue Lisle my car"

Having trouble deciphering?  She wants to know if there's enough oil in the car.  Should always proofread everything before you send it out into the universe.

Ridiculous!

This kid really can sleep anywhere!

Pervert!

Rockin' The Do!

No fancy style this time.  Just plain Blue-Black.

Home Again...

Wally Kurth and Robin Christopher will reprise their roles of Ned and Skye when they return home to attend Edward's memorial service.  Excited to see them, but wish it was under different circumstances.  According to what little is known, both will interact heavily with Todd, Tea, and Blair.  I smell secrets being revealed.  Should prove very interesting.

Autograph!

Sheamus' autograph!  It's nice to have and all, but I much prefer the picture we took.  With autographs, I find you can never quite read the signature.

WOW!

Got to meet Sheamus yesterday!  Was amazingly awesome!  He was so nice!  Not gonna lie, having the World Heavyweight Championship on my tray was just as big a thrill as meeting the man who holds it.  Crazy, insane experience!

... And Cheese!

7!

Release Me debuted at #7!  For those curious, it is Barbra's 32nd top ten album!  Quite the accomplishment!  Congratulations!

First Professional Pictures!

Mr. Broccoli looking so handsome, and hamming it up for the camera!

High-Def Funny Girl!

Now, this is the news I've been waiting for!  Funny Girl is coming to Blu-ray in 2013!  From the little I've read, a full restoration is expected.  This is so awesome!  Maybe we'll even get some new bonus material.  Will post a release date when one is confirmed.

In related news, A Star Is Born will debut in high-def in 2013 as well!

Burton QUITS!

Steve Burton has quit General Hospital!  YAY!  I don't mind him as an actor, but can't stand Jason!  You won't see me shedding any tears!  No word yet on a final airdate.

Info...

What do you think of the Release Me cover art?  I think it's simple, beautiful, and a great improvement over the last album.  Don't know if I said this before, but I'm extremely disappointed that there are only 11 tracks.  I'm sure they'll be wonderful, but after hearing about this project for as long as we have, I was expecting more.  Anyway, the official track listing is:

1. Being Good Isn’t Good Enough (From Hallelujah, Baby!)
2. Didn’t We
3. Willow Weep For Me
4. Try To Win A Friend
5. I Think It’s Going To Rain Today
6. With One More Look At You (From A Star Is Born)
7. Lost In Wonderland
8. How Are Things In Glocca Morra?/Heather On The Hill (From Finian's Rainbow/Brigadoon)
9. Mother And Child
10. If It’s Meant To Be
11. Home (From The Wiz)

Some surprises are also being promised.  My guess?  Bonus tracks depending on where the album is purchased.  Honestly, that trick has seen its best day for me.  Just one and done.

Quote Of The Moment...

"I only taste the saline when I kiss away your tears."

-Barely Breathing-Duncan Sheik

News!

Couple of big news items!  First, the highly anticipated album of unreleased material, with a ridiculously unimaginative title, Release Me will hit stores on September 25th.  No word yet, but I'm hoping it'll be a box set.  Lord knows, there's probably enough for five or six CDs!

Barbra will kick off a small concert tour on October 8th in Philadelphia.  Dates and details are as follows:

Oct. 08: Philadelphia, PA (Wells Fargo Center)
Oct. 11: Brooklyn, NY (Barclays Center)
Oct. 13: Brooklyn, NY (Barclays Center)
Oct. 17: Montreal, QC (Bell Centre)
Oct. 20: Ottawa, ON (Scotiabank Place)
Oct. 23: Toronto, ON (Air Canada Centre)
Oct. 26: Chicago, IL (United Center)
Oct. 29: Vancouver, BC (Rogers Arena)

One of the Brooklyn shows is expected to be recorded for future CD/DVD/Blu-ray release.

37!

In the last week or so, I've been very fortunate to add to my collection of Evita recordings.  Am so happy to have finally found the 1986 Hungarian Cast!  Not including promotional singles, I'm pretty sure I have all but one official recording.  So awesome!  When it's complete, I will post a list.

Imagine?!?!?!

I just entered a sweepstakes to win a trip to Buenos Aires, and to see Evita on Broadway again!  It includes:

Round trip economy airfare for 2 to Buenos Aires, courtesy of DELTA AIR LINES
4 nights at the Panamericano Buenos Aires Hotel
1 night at Jumeirah Essex House
Complimentary breakfasts at the hotel
A private reception with the cast of EVITA
2 prime orchestra seats for EVITA on Broadway

The full itinerary is as follows:

10/11 @ 12pm:
Check into Jumeirah Essex House in NYC

10/11 @ 5:30pm:
Welcome reception at Jumeirah Essex House w/ members of the cast & media

10/11 @ 8pm:
Prime orchestra seats at EVITA on Broadway

10/12:
Check out of Jumeirah Essex House and board an afternoon flight to Buenos Aires

10/13:
Arrive in Buenos Aires and check into the Panamericano Buenos Aires Hotel

10/14-10/16:
Start off each day with a complimentary breakfast at the Panamericano Buenos Aires Hotel

10/16 @ 5:30pm:
Reunite with your fellow sweepstakes winners at a cocktail reception at the Panamericano Buenos Aires Hotel

10/17 @ 12pm:
Check out of the Panamericano Buenos Aires Hotel and board an evening flight back to NYC

Wouldn't that be incredible! I know chances are slim, but I can dream!

Quote Of The Moment...

"Either pray, or worry.  Don't do both."

-Curtis Jackson

Cookie MONSTER!!!

For Kids?

Gorgeous!

Big thanks to a special friend for making me another Afghan.  Love the pattern, and how it matches the loveseat.  Just beautiful!

What A Find!

For months now, everyone has been telling me I need a table.  Found a couple I liked, but they were too expensive.  This one was at the end of my hallway not long ago, so I grabbed it.  A good scrub, a nice candle holder, and a cheap, albeit pretty, white candle.  Not too bad...