PAMA Cocktail Competition Deadline Tonight!

PAMA SEEKS THE BEST HOME BAR STAR

Deadline February 29, 2012

***Press Release***

BARDSTOWN, KY – PAMA Liqueur Challenges Amateur Bartenders to Showcase their skills to create a killer cocktail that is perfectly balanced, elegantly presented and definitely delicious.

The winner will receive a trip for two to the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen in June 2012 with $2,000 spending money and the opportunity for their recipe to be presented in front of thousands of attendees at the Grand Tasting Tent. Their recipe will also be featured on PAMA’s website.

The contest, which runs until February 29, 11:59PM EST, asks the public to submit a recip e and photo of their original drink creation, which will be judged based on the following criteria:

1) Originality/creativity

2) Unique use of PAMA

3) Ingredient combination

4) Appropriateness of the cocktail name

The top 25 entries, as determined by the PAMA judging panel, will be posted to PAMA’s website and Facebook page for visitors to vote on their favorite entry. Finalists can share their recipe with friends and family in order to gain votes. The top 10 highest-voted entries will then be judged by an esteemed panel of cocktail professionals who will create and taste each recipe.

The panel includes Kate Krader (Food & Wine), Darryl Robinson (The Cooking Channel’s “Drink Up !”) and Eben Freeman (master mixologist and PAMA spokesperson).

Four runners-up will receive a one-year subscription to Food & Wine magazine and a PAMA gift bag. For a full list of rules and to enter, go to www.PAMALiqueur.com/HomeBarStar.

About PAMA Liqueur

Produced by Heaven Hill Distilleries, this ruby-red pomegranate liqueur serves as a versatile cocktail ingredient that mixes with whiskey, rum and brandy equally well as it mixes with vodka, gin and tequila. Providing a delicately balanced sweet-tart flavor, PAMA brightens cocktails and elevates them from the everyday to modern classics.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGo and Facebook. Gotta Go is published in M magazine and the following newspapers: Southsider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra: Getting Rocky Mountain High with John Denver?

ISO Performs Rocky Mountain High: A Tribute to John Denver

*** Press Release ***

INDIANAPOLIS – The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra welcomes guest conductor Richard Kaufman and noted John Denver interpreter Jim Curry, performing the hits by the legendary folk and pop artist in a program titled Rocky Mountain High: A Tribute to John Denver Friday and Saturday, March 9 and 10, at the Hilbert Circle Theatre and Sunday, March 11, at The Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

This program showcasing John Denver’s hits from the late 1960s and '70s includes many timeless favorites such as “Rocky Mountain High,” “Leaving on a Jet Plane,” “Thank God I’m a Country Boy,” “Sunshine on My Shoulders,” “Annie’s Song,” “Wild Montana Skies” and “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” among others.

Check back with GottaGo.us for full review. 

*** For more information on John Denver and the upcoming Poems, Prayers, and Promises 40th anniversary edition vinyl album to be released April 3, 2012, visit John Denver.com

Tickets: Hilbert Circle Theatre: Friday-11 a.m., $26-$48; Friday and Saturday-7:30 p.m., $20-$76; The Palladium concerts: Sunday-7:30 p.m., $30-$85/adults, $20/students.

Tickets and information: Friday and Saturday shows-Hilbert Circle Theatre Box Office at (317) 639-4300, www.IndianapolisSymphony.org; Sunday show-Center for the Performing Arts Box Office at (317) 843-3800, www.TheCenterForThePerformingArts.com

Artist Biographies

Richard Kaufman has devoted much of his career to conducting in concert halls and recordings and supervising music for films and television productions. Currently he serves as Principal Pops Conductor for the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and the Pacific Symphony Orchestra. He has collaborated with John Denver, The Carpenters, Burt Bacharach, Neil Sedaka, Neil Diamond, Chris Botti, The Pointer Sisters, Ray Charles and the Beach Boys, among others.

Jim Curry has performed his full-length John Denver tribute concerts to sold-out audiences in Las Vegas at the Silverton Hotel and Casino. With a natural singing voice that closely resembles that of the legendary pop artist, Curry launched his unique career following Denver’s death when CBS Television produced a made-for-TV movie, Take Me Home, The John Denver Story, in which Jim performed an off-camera role of singing the popular songs as the voice of John Denver.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGo and Facebook. Gotta Go is published in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Oscars 2012 List of Nominees and Cocktails

The 84th Academy Awards

Sun., Feb. 26, 2012

When is this year's 84th Academy Awards? Sunday, February 26, 2012 will be the evening for rolling out the ruby walkway. Hosting this year's event, thankfully, is Billy Crystal once again. Along with the gowns, glitz and glamour are other noteworthy items ... like nibblers and the smartest of cocktails.

If you are feverishly planning an Oscar party to ooh and aah over the red carpet celebrities and their wardrobe malfunctions, then you might want to review a few of these sassy cocktail recipes.  They were sent to me, and created especially for the gala by, Voli Light Vodka and Belvedere Vodka. I have posted the ones which I felt were most tempting for an award-worthy evening, along with a list of the nominees for the evening...enjoy!

Sweet Revenge

(inspired by "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo")\

2 oz Raspberry Cocoa

2 Raspberries

2 Blackberries

1 oz apple cider

1⁄4 oz maple syrup

Directions:

Muddle berries and maple syrup. Add all ingredients then shake and strain

Glass: Martini

Garnish: Raspberries

Crystal Cosmo

(an ode to this year's host Billy Crystal)

1 1⁄2 oz Voli Lyte

1 oz fresh lemon juice

2 oz Cranberry Juice

1⁄2 oz Agave Nectar Top with Prosecco (OPTIONAL)

Garnish: Lemon twist

Directions:

In a mixing tin, add ice, Voli Lyte, lemon juice, agave & shake.

Strain into a martini glass and top with Prosecco

The Artist

A surprisingly rich and delightful story about the end of the silent film era and the rise of the talkies, The Artist is a front-runner to win the Best Picture.

2oz Belvedere Black Raspberry 

1/4oz simple syrup 

1/2 oz Lemon juice 

6 fresh raspberries or 

1/2oz raspberry puree 

dash egg white 

Shake vigorously and strain into a chilled 

martini glass top with a splash of soda and 

garnish with a raspberry.

THE NOMINEES

Best Picture

"The Artist" Thomas Langmann, Producer

"The Descendants" Jim Burke, Alexander Payne and Jim Taylor, Producers

"Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close" Scott Rudin, Producer

"The Help" Brunson Green, Chris Columbus and Michael Barnathan, Producers

"Hugo" Graham King and Martin Scorsese, Producers

"Midnight in Paris" Letty Aronson and Stephen Tenenbaum, Producers

"Moneyball" Michael De Luca, Rachael Horovitz and Brad Pitt, Producers

"The Tree of Life" Sarah Green, Bill Pohlad, Dede Gardner and Grant Hill, Producers

"War Horse" Steven Spielberg and Kathleen Kennedy, Producers

Directing

"The Artist" Michel Hazanavicius

"The Descendants" Alexander Payne

"Hugo" Martin Scorsese

"Midnight in Paris" Woody Allen

"The Tree of Life" Terrence Malick

Actor in a Leading Role

Demián Bichir in "A Better Life"

George Clooney in "The Descendants"

Jean Dujardin in "The Artist"

Gary Oldman in "Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy"

Brad Pitt in "Moneyball"

Actor in a Supporting Role

Kenneth Branagh in "My Week with Marilyn"

Jonah Hill in "Moneyball"

Nick Nolte in "Warrior"

Christopher Plummer in "Beginners"

Max von Sydow in "Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close"

Actress in a Leading Role

Glenn Close in "Albert Nobbs"

Viola Davis in "The Help"

Rooney Mara in "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo"

Meryl Streep in "The Iron Lady"

Michelle Williams in "My Week with Marilyn"

Actress in a Supporting Role

Bérénice Bejo in "The Artist"

Jessica Chastain in "The Help"

Melissa McCarthy in "Bridesmaids"

Janet McTeer in "Albert Nobbs"

Octavia Spencer in "The Help"

Animated Feature Film

"A Cat in Paris" Alain Gagnol and Jean-Loup Felicioli

"Chico & Rita" Fernando Trueba and Javier Mariscal

"Kung Fu Panda 2" Jennifer Yuh Nelson

"Puss in Boots" Chris Miller

"Rango" Gore Verbinski

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGo and Facebook. Gotta Go is published in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Theater Review: Cirque du Soleil Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour

Cirque du Soleil's Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour came to Indianapolis' Banker's Life Fieldhouse, bringing numerous semi-truck loads of lighting, pyrotechnic and stage props. The Canadian-based circus extraordinaire combined its talents with the estate of Michael Jackson to bring to the stage one last over-the-top theatrical performance worthy of MJ's fans and his own standards.

Did Jaimie King, concert director-choreographer for the likes of Madonna, Britney Spears and Celine Dion, present a show which satisfied the King of Pop's die-hard fans? Were the Cirque acrobats an addition or would the audience have preferred simply staying with a traditional tribute show? Relying on comments I overheard, the jury is still out.

Relying heavily on video imagery of the late iconic singer creates either a distraction or enhancement depending on the person asked. Song placement ping-ponged the mood throughout the show, rather than a climb and then gentle release of tempo, such as somber, "Have You Seen My Childhood," sliding into upbeat "Gotta Be Starting Something."

Songs with less radio time over the span of Jackson's career received more stage time than well-known mega hits, "Thriller," "Beat it," and "Billie Jean." The sad and powerful, "They Don't Really Care About Us" from the ill-fated THIS IS IT comeback tour, continued the somberness of the evening.
There was a surreal feeling throughout the performance, as if rather than a celebratory tribute to the iconic singer's accomplishments, we were treated to a video-funeral.
The performance brings many emotions to light, which I suppose is fitting, considering the subject matter.
Bottom Line: A bitter sweetness swept across the arena, refusing to leave the remainder of the evening. Cirque's IMMORTAL feels similar to Michael Jackson's life: talented, disjointed and fleeting.

For tickets, show times & information, visit

BankersLifeFieldhouse.com, Ticketmaster.com or CirqueduSoleil/IMMORTAL

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGo and Facebook. Gotta Go is published in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Indiana Artisan Marketplace 2012 Participating Artisans Announced

Indiana Artisan Marketplace 2012
March 31 & April 1

Participating Artisans Announced

WHAT: Indiana Artisan Marketplace

WHEN/Hours: Saturday, March 31, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Sunday, April 1, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

WHERE: Indiana State Fairgrounds, Expo Hall, Indianapolis 

COST: $10 admission (free for children 7 and under) 

INFO: IndianaArtisan.com

*** News Release ***

INDIANAPOLIS (Feb. 17, 2012) – From Indiana-made wines and chocolate truffles to sterling silver jewelry and chic handbags made from reclaimed leather, visitors to the Indiana Artisan Marketplace will find a variety of work that celebrates the best of Hoosier talent and creativity.

The March 31-April 1 event features more than 100 artists and food artisans juried into the prestigious Indiana Artisan program. In addition to the featured artisans from 40 Indiana counties, more than 75 artisans from Kentucky will participate, since the Hoosier event is modeled after an event in the Bluegrass state, Kentucky Crafted Market that has a 30-year track record.

Participating Artisans

Allen County

Joe Pelka, Fort Wayne, pottery
Website: http://mysite.verizon.net/jpkpclay/  

Kristy Beber, Lee, stoneware pottery
Website: www.kristyjobeber.com

Jennifer Cameron, Fort Wayne, jewelry
Website: www.glassaddictions.com

Wayne Shive, Fort Wayne, chile and espresso fudge sauces
Website: www.bestboyandco.com

Bartholomew County

Alexa Lemley, Columbus, marshmallows
Website: www.240sweet.com

Boone County

Jennifer Berger, Zionsville, hand-designed and constructed felted creatures, using hand-dyed yarns
Website: http://wovendimensions.blogspot.com/

Janet Boettcher, Thorntown, Norwegian Rosemaling folk art painted in oils on wood
Website: www.turnofthecentury-in.com

Joyce Jensen, Zionsville, watercolors
Website: www.joycekjensen.com

Dusky Loebel, Zionsville, handcrafted sterling silver jewelry, using metal smithing and glass fusing
Website: www.artinhandgallery.com

Brown County

Rosemary Bolte, Nashville, painted gourds

Amy Greely, Nashville, jewelry
Website: www.amygreely.com

Chris Gustin, Columbus, rugs and fiber arts
Website: www.homesteadweaver.com

Anabel Hopkins, Nashville, notecards and original art
Website: www.anabelhopkins.com

Michele Pollock, Columbus, mixed media paper art
Website: www.lostlakestudio.com

Judy Prichard, Nashville, pottery
Website: www.oakgrovepottery.com

Tom Prichard, Nashville, pottery
Website: www.oakgrovepottery.com

Kyle Spears, Nashville, photography
Website: www.kylespears.com

Larry Spears, Nashville, pottery

Website: www.spearspottery.com

Carroll County

Rena Brouwer, Delphi, watercolors
Website: www.renabrouwer.com

Cass County

Mercedes Brugh, Logansport, glass jewelry
Website: www.frozenmusic.net

Toney Robertson, Galveston, wooden bowls, hand-turned wooden pendants, roses made of wood and metals

Clark County

Huber’s Winery and Orchard, Borden, wine and brandy
Website: www.huberwinery.com

Diane and Dan Wibbels, Clarksville, hand-woven fiber used to create garments and household items Website: www.holidayhandwovens.com

Daviess County

Larry Green, Washington, basswood carvings

DeKalb County

Kalista Johnston, Garrett, cheese crisps
Website: www.graceislandfoods.com

Delaware County

David Calvin, Muncie, woodwork
Website: www.whimwood.net

Dubois County

Sisters of St. Benedict, Ferdinand, cookies
Website: www.simplydivine.com

Floyd County

Robert Capshew, Lanesville, black cheery, pear and red wine vinegar

Website: www.capshewcellars.com

Franklin County

Carrie Miller, Batesville, sauces and jams

Hamilton County
Linda Adamson, Arcadia, fiber art

Website: www.tabbytreeweaver.com

Carol Bell, Noblesville, stoneware

Website: www.bluemoonpottery.com

Jennifer Cheezum, Carmel, pierogis

Website: www.pierogiinapinch.com

Christine Davis, Fishers, raku fired ceramics

Website: www.christinedavispottery.com

Geoffrey Davis, Noblesville, Indiana songbirds carved from wood

Website: www.50littlebirds.com

Charles Ferguson, Noblesville, Crazy Charlie’s Gourmet salsas

Website: www.cgsalsa.com

Sylvia Gray, Westfield, surface design, hand painted silk scarves

Website: www.sylviagray.net

Tim Kennedy, Fishers, wood turned bowls, vessels, lidded boxes, spheres

Website: www.timsturnery.com

Pam Newell, Fishers, pastels and oils

Website: www.pnewellart.com

Brian Paffen, Fishers, soaps and bath products

Website: www.herbalartonline.com

Lori Shreve, Westfield, fudge

Website: www.indianafudge.com

Harrison County

Laura Pfeiffer, Corydon, 24 wines from Turtle Run Winery
Website: www.turtlerunwinery.com  

Jackson County

Pete Baxter, Seymour, wood, Shaker boxes and carriers

Website: www.petebaxterwoodworks.com

Burton’s Maplewood Farm, Medora, maple syrup

Website: www.burtonsmaplewoodfarm.com

 Jay County

Zach Medler, Portland, ceramics and relief printing

Website: www.zmed-ceramics.com

 Kosciusko County

Terry Armstrong, Warsaw, watercolors
Website: www.terryarmstrong.net 

LaPorte County

Steven Skinner, New Carlisle, pottery

Website: www.blacktreestudio.com 

Lawrence County

Charlotte Waltz, Norman, persimmons

Website: www.seedsandsuch.com

Carousel Winery, Mitchell, wine

Website: www.carouselwinery.com 

Madison County

Greg Adams, Lapel, rustic willow furniture

Marion County

Teri Barnett, Indianapolis, acrylics

Website: www.teribarnett.com

Chuck Bruce, Indianapolis, silver inlay jewelry

Website: www.chuckbrucedesigns.com

James Dupler, Indianapolis, woodworking

Website: www.ccagallery.com/ArtistPages/JamesDupler.html

Allison Ford, Indianapolis, wooden jewelry

Website: www.studioamf.com

Elizabeth Garber, Indianapolis, truffles

Website: www.bestchocolateintown.com

Rick Greiner, Indianapolis, pottery pears

Jayne Hoadley, Indianapolis, sea salt pecan chews

Website: www.jevelynconfections.com 

Anita Hopper, Indianapolis, recycled leather purses and accessories

Website: www.refindoriginals.com 

Erin Jones-Edds, Indianapolis, dressings and drink mixes

Website: www.hoosiermomma.com

Nancy Lee, Indianapolis, jewelry

Website: www.ndesignsmetal.com

Nancy Miller, Indianapolis, gourd art

Peg Neal, Indianapolis, pottery

Website: www.artinhandgallery.com/peg-neal.php

Donna Shortt, Indianapolis, oils and pastels

Website: www.dshortt.com

Carrie Wild, Indianapolis, watercolors

Website: www.carriewild.com

Miami County

Rose Brown, Peru, goat’s milk soap

Susan Kline, Peru, paper collage

Monroe County

Jan Arbogast, Bloomington, pottery

Website: localclay.net/indartistspages/arbogast_jan.htm

John Bower, Bloomington, photography

Website: www.studioindiana.com 

Kris Busch, Heltonville, pottery

Website: www.functionalceramics.com

Jim Butler, Bloomington, wine

Website: www.butlerwinery.com

Marla Dawson, Ellettsville, fiber art

Website: www.weavingbymarla.com

Suzanne Halvorson, Bloomington, fiber art/scarves

Thomas Harris, Bloomington, ceramics/pottery

Website: www.clayoh.com

Carolyn and Don Madvig, Bloomington, paper/found material notecards

Website: www.sleepingdogsstudio.net

Marcy Neiditz, Bloomington, pottery

Website: www.marcyneiditz.com

Cappi Phillips, Bloomington, mixed media mosaic sculpture

Website: www.moesache.com

Sheryl Woodhouse-Keese, Bloomington, handmade papers

Website: www.twistedlimbpaper.com

Morgan County

Donna Jo Copeland, Mooresville, fiber art

Ohio County

Kendal Miller, Dillsboro, fine art photography
Website: www.photographybykendal.com

Orange County

French Lick Winery, French Lick, wine
Website: www.frenchlickwinery.com

Perry County

Winzerwald Winery, Bristow, wine
Website: www.winzerwaldwinery.com

Nita Claise, Tell City, raku pottery

Website: www.nitaclaise.com

Brad Smith, Tell City, hand twisted Tell City Pretzel

Website: www.tellcitypretzel.com

Porter County

Lynn Retson, Porter, graphite drawings

Posey County

Laine Benthall, Mt. Vernon, jewelry

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop/lainebenthalldesigns 

Tom Wintczak, Wadesville, pottery

Website: www.beetreepottery.com

Randolph County

Judy Coe, Lynn, homemade noodles

Website: www.coesnoodles.com

Wayne Gaydos, Farmland, stringed instruments

Website: www.fromthewoodsinstruments.com

Ripley County

Robin Dyer, Friendship, leather moccasins and textiles

Website: www.carldyers.com

 Shelby County

Julie Bolejack, Shelbyville, chocolates

Website: www.chocolateforthespirit.com

St. Joseph County
Laurel Isle, Winona Lake, soaps and bath products

Tippecanoe County

Mary Firestone, Lafayette, stoneware

Website: www.dirtyhandspottery.com

Lisa Hopkins, West Lafayette, sterling silver jewelry

Website: www.lisahopkinsdesigns.com

Aldis Knight, Lafayette, photography

Website: www.aldisphotographicdesigns.com

Sara Vanderkleed, Lafayette, fine art, including acrylic and watercolor combined with recycled envelopes

Website: www.saravanderkleed.com

Vanderburgh County

Karen Hampton, Evansville, fiber art

Larry Hampton, Evansville, color pencil drawings

Vermillion County

Brooke Schmidt, Dana, toffees

Website: www.brookescandyco.com

Washington

Carrie Strange, Salem, letterpress greeting cards

Website: www.aripress.com 

Wayne County

Nathan and Linda Jones, Richmond, sterling silver jewelry

Website: http://www.etsy.com/people/Persimmonmetals

Daniel Sims, Richmond, stained glass
Website: www.ardencreations.com

About Indiana Artisan

Indiana Artisan was established in 2008 to identify and support the business development of Hoosier entrepreneurs who create high-quality arts, crafts and value-added foods. It was launched as a joint venture of the Indiana Office of Tourism Development, the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs, the Indiana Arts Commission, and the Indiana State Department of Agriculture. It is a private, not-for-profit organization. 

The work of nearly 200 artisans in nearly 60 Indiana counties has been juried into the organization and is part of the Indiana Artisan brand. More information at IndianaArtisan.com. 

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGo and Facebook. Gotta Go is published in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Theater Review: Beef and Boards: Legally Blonde, The Musical

Legally Blonde, The Musical based on the Reese Witherspoon mega hit film Legally Blonde (2001) opened this week at Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre, Indianapolis. The fun, frolicking romp is seen through the eyes of UCLA sorority girl, Elle Woods, dumped by her social-climbing boyfriend, Warner Huntington III. The story changes location as does Elle's priorities when she enrolls in Harvard Law School to win him back.

Always a difficult task to take a movie, particularly one as popular as this one, and put it on a live stage. B&B utilized set designer extraordinaire Michael Layton to, once again, perform his layout magic. Layton's revolving set whisks us from courtroom to murder scene to beauty salon with ease.

The Not so Dumb Blonde portrayed by Maggie Taylor, finds her own identity during her quest to be "a Jackie, not a Marilyn," for Warner, played by Chad Brosky. Taylor brings the necessary high energy to the part, giving the young members of the audience exactly what they want from their favourite blonde. Brosky, who has appeared on television, stage and film, turns in a solid acting and vocal performance as wishy-washy Huntington.

Other love interest, Emmett Forrest, portrayed by Dominic Sheehan-Stahl, plays the odd-man on campus winning Elle's affection.

It's simple to watch the main characters, bypassing side and supporting roles in all the glitz of this fast-paced show. I implore you, however, to look to the right and left of the main stage for this one.

Stepping into the Gotta Go Spotlight are two ladies portraying polar opposite characters: unpolished, with low self-esteem, beauty salon owner, Paulette Bonafonte, and perfectly refined and confident law student (and Warner's new love) Vivienne Kensington.


Bonafonte is portrayed by Annie Edgerton with the smoothness of a professional with years of rolling with whatever comes her way during live theater performances. It is not difficult to understand how Edgerton is able to snatch the attention again and again -- a task accomplished even during the stage-crowded "Bend and Snap" number.


Throughout the high-energy, well-choreographed production, a lone figure stands composed, drawing attention by her sheer serenity. Erin Wegner Brooks, as Vivienne Kensington, is afforded too few lines, too little stage time and too few songs to showcase her extreme vocal and acting talent. Her calmness in the bustle on stage throughout the performance emphasizes her strong, unwavering abilities. As the beacon in a storm, Brooks gives a clear, subtle performance deserving of all the applause available by the sold-out crowd.

Judah Garva and Jeremy Sarlin bring the roles of gay couple Nikos and Carlos to an all-time high with their over-the-top portrayal in the courtroom scene.

One of my Destination Actors, Mark Goetzinger (Hello Dolly), completely nails the role of conniving, egotistical Professor Callahan. A few minutes more on stage and rotten tomatoes would most definitely have been tossed at the cad.

Bottom Line: Beef and Boards' Legally Blonde, The Musical brings talent and energy to the tale of everyone's favourite girl in pink.

For tickets, shows and details, visit BeefandBoards.com
Images by JulieCurryPhotography.com
Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGo and Facebook. Gotta Go is published in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

St. Valentine's Day 2012: A rose by any other colour...

Valentine’s Day is upon us once again…it seems to happen every year about this time, doesn’t it? Well, there are traditions which must be upheld and who am I to stand in the way of tradition?

Flowers. Brownie points are high for the fragrant blossoms. Send the bouquet to her workplace and score mega-brownie points; especially since it lands on Tuesday this year. Not only does she appreciate the flowers, she gets the ultimate fun­­: bragging rights.

That's right gentemen; ladies love to have the Greatest Guy trophy, which gets passed around among her female coworkers, friends and family on a constant rotation. If she gets to take home the invisible award, you get all the glory because she is feeling ultimately adored by you and knows that everyone she knows is aware of the adoration…not bad for a few long stems wrapped up with baby’s breath.

The number one flower sent? The rose continues to hold the top spot. In fact, according to the American Society of American Florists, 190 million roses are estimated to be sold this year alone. My research found that colour is of the utmost importance in conveying the correct meaning through floriography, the art of speaking with flowers.

Choose carefully when deciding which colour to send or hand-deliver. Sending the wrong hue can send the wrong signal.

If you are friends with a lady and would like to keep the relationship at a platonic level, send yellow. It’s the sign of friendship whether a pale or deep gold. Send this colour to a woman you would like to get serious about and you may find yourself moved to the "buddy" category.

White petals signify everlasting and undying love. These may be sent to a long-term love, past the youthful stage of infatuation. White petals are much more pure than its passionate counterpart, the red rose.

The intensity of the fiery red colour should parallel the intensity of the sender’s passion for the receiver; the darker the shade, the stronger the passion.

Coral and orange blooms show desire is definite, with a touch of fascination or bewitched emotions intertwined. Peach shows appreciation, not passion; reserve this color for family members or coworkers, not your significant other.

Struck by a lightning bolt at first meeting? Send lavender or purple petals. This color, whether softly-hued or a deep, rich purple, represents enchantment, or love, at first sight.

Finally, take into account likes and dislikes of the receiver when sending flowers. If you know her heart’s desire is a color that signifies other than passionate emotions, remember that making her feel happy and romanced is what it is all about.
 
Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGo and Facebook. Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Restaurant Review: Hoosier Park's Winner's Circle Pub, Grille & OTB

Hoosier Park's Off-Track Betting establishment, Winner's Circle Pub, Grille & OTB, opened its new location in downtown Indianapolis quietly during the 2011 holidays. I was invited to check out the menu at Indy's newest eatery, located at 20 N. Pennsylvania St.

Upon entering the horseshoe-shaped interior, you are greeted by the pub ahead of you and the restaurant to your left. Individual betting is located to the right and beyond a door is a private party room and a smoker's betting lounge.

The pub is high energy with large screen televisions and a rather cool under-counter lighting system, which I was allowed to change the colors from pink to blue, etc. Although there are martinis on the menu, patrons tend to drink single liquors over ice at this establishment. The wine list is well appointed and local beers are always in rotation.

The dining area is more of a horse country's relaxed country club atmosphere enhanced by over-sized, black and white equine photography displayed on the far wall.

The menu is American comfort food, including faves like baked mac 'n cheese, southern fried chicken and steaks. A few twists, such as appetizers of roasted peppers, sweet potato chips and Asian-inspired beef and pineapple skewers keep the choices fresh and interesting.

An absolute must-try is Executive Chef Brian Seal's dessert menu highlight, Chocolate Brownie with Peanut Butter Ganache (see photo above). It is large enough for two, but too good to share. I'll leave that decision to you.

Bottom Line: Hoosier Park's Winner's Circle Pub, Grille & OTB serves up comfort food with a side of fun.

Images: Izzy Evans; Hoosier Park Racing & Casino
Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGo and Facebook. Gotta Go is published in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Indiana Landmarks Seeks Volunteers

Volunteer opportunities at Indiana Landmarks campus

*** Press Release ***

If you have wondered, "How do I volunteer?" here is your volunteer opportunity.

Indiana Landmarks is recruiting volunteers, offering a variety of experiences appealing to young people looking for job experience and folks of every age seeking educational enrichment and meaningful ways to contribute their time.

The nonprofit organization welcomes those who’d like to know more about its volunteer options to an open house Wed., Feb. 15, 2012, 5:30-7 p.m. at Indiana Landmarks Center, 1201 Central 

Avenue. For directions, click here.

The center is an adapted nineteenth-century church which holds a 400-seat theater as well as the smaller Cook Theater and large reception halls. The building at the corner of 12th and Central is in the Old Northside historic district, a mile north of Monument Circle. Morris-Butler House, a restored Victorian site next door to the center at 1204 North Park, was built in 1865.

The 52-year old organization saves, restores and adapts vintage structures throughout Indiana. It seeks to enlist volunteers who will lead entertaining and educational tours of Morris-Butler House and Indiana Landmarks Center, walking tours of Monument Circle and other historic areas of Indianapolis, and motorcoach tours for groups visiting the capital city. 

Cook Hall                      Image/Indiana Landmarks

For tour guides, Indiana Landmarks provides a required six-week training course. The course covers the history and development of Indianapolis’s downtown and landmark neighborhoods, architectural history, and how to create and deliver a compelling tour.

The organization also needs volunteers to provide office and library assistance and help with the special events, art exhibits, and performances held at Indiana Landmarks Center and Morris-Butler House. Volunteers greet and direct people, answer questions, usher at performances, and assist in set up for events. Training for these volunteer opportunities ranges from on-the-spot to a few hours, depending upon the task.

In addition to training, Indiana Landmarks’ volunteers receive complimentary membership, continuing education, the chance to visit fascinating historic sites, opportunities for involvement in the development of new tours, and social activities.

Indiana Landmarks also needs volunteers at its historic sites in Cambridge City, Aurora, and French Lick-West Baden. To learn more about volunteering, people can attend the February 15 information session, or contact Gwendolen Raley, 317-636-5409, tourism@indianalandmarks.org.


Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGO and Facebook. Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Whitney Houston Dies at 48

 Whitney Elizabeth Houston, (Aug. 9, 1963 – Feb. 11, 2012)

Whitney Elizabeth Houston, born Aug. 9, 1963, passed away today at the age of 48. Setting, and breaking, music records throughout her career, Houston topped the charts in the 1980s and '90s.

The daughter of gospel singer Cissy Houston, Whitney flourished in the pop genre, selling more than 170 million albums. Starting her career as a model, she quickly adapted to the musical arena stemming from her roots singing in the church.

Representatives for Ms. Houston have declined to furnish any details about the songbird's death other than to confirm she passed away on February 11, 2012. Beverly Hills Police Dept. representative, Lt.Mark Rosen, has confirmed that Houston died in her room at the Beverly Hills Hilton Hotel. Detectives are investigating the cause of death.


Houston's death on the eve of the 54th annual Grammy Awards is bittersweet as she once reigned as pop music's queen, scooping up the award six times with a total of 16 nominations during her career.
Some of her numerous chart-topping hits include, Saving all my Love for You, You Give Good Love, How Will I know, Greatest Love of All, I Will Always Love You and Didn't We Almost Have it All.
Other credits to her are films The Bodyguard, (1992) costarring Houston and Kevin Costner, and 1995's Waiting to Exhale, with Angela Bassett.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGO and Facebook. Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Indy Wine Trail: Chocolate Lover's Weekend February 2012

Chocolate, wine and friends make for a pleasant way to spend a weekend and metro Indy wineries know and love that fact so much they have an event devoted to them. Indy Wine Trail hosts its annual Chocolate Lover's Weekend February 11 and 12, noon to 6 p.m. each day.

Having trekked along the Chocolate Lover's Weekend trail myself (see review here), I can easily recommend it. Novice wine drinkers can learn their likes and dislikes at a nominal cost, learn about the camaraderie that enhances the trail experience and indulge in chocolate served in numerous forms. Experienced wine enthusiasts and novices alike can taste the recently crowned 2012 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition's Riesling gold winner at Easley Winery (click here for details), sip honey mead wine at New Day Meadery (see review here), and visit newcomer Cedar Creek Winery.

I generally recommend trail followers to end their Saturday evening trail activities at Mallow Run Winery (if possible) for music and singing by the fireplace. I also encourage to begin your journey at the winery farthest from  home. In my case that is Simmons Winery, and by being there at opening time, allows me to not use valuable driving time during the noon-6 p.m. trail hours.

Buck Creek Winery and Chateau Thomas Winery (Plainfield) are on opposite sides of Indianapolis. With the opening of Chateau Thomas in Fishers, however, the north side is now an option to ease the driving time.

For a trail map, click here.

Who: Seven wineries (see list and links below) within driving range of each other.

What: Indy Wine Trail's Chocolate Lover's Weekend. Participants receive wine tastings, chocolate desserts, and a commemorative glass. And, upon completion of all seven wineries, a six-bottle tote.

When: Saturday, February 11and Sunday, February 12; Hours: Noon-6 pm each day.

Tickets: On sale at any of the seven Indy Wine Trail wineries. Advance tickets-$25. Day of event tickets-$30. Designated Driver tickets-$12. Tickets are good for the entire weekend.

Chocolate Lover's Weekend Wineries and Links

Buck Creek Winery-Acton; Buck Creek Winery

Cedar Creek Winery-Martinsville; Cedar Creek Winery

Chateau Thomas Winery, Fishers and Plainfield; Chateau Thomas Winery

Easley Winery-Indianapolis/downtown; Easley Winery

Mallow Run Winery-Bargersville; Mallow Run Winery

New Day Meadery-Indianapolis/Fountain Square; New Day Meadery

Simmons Winery-Columbus; Simmons Winery

Other Important links:

Indiana Wines

Indy Wine Trail on Twitter

List of all Indiana Wineries

Image of Mallow Run by Izzy Evans/Feb.2010

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @GottaGo and Facebook. Gotta Go is published in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.