Join us for Namus Classics’ upcoming Radiance Concert by Classical Pianist Jeeyoon Kim- Sunday, September 21, 2025 at 3 pm. The concert will take place at the beautiful La Jolla Music Society venue, (Baker-Baum Concert Hall at the Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center).
It will celebrate the release of Jeeyoon Kim’s fourth album, “Radiance,” as well as her new book, Beyond the Keys: Music and Stories of Inspiration. (Publishing date- September 19, 2025 by the Greenleaf Book Group).
The Radiance concert will kick-off Jeeyoon’s nationwide multi-city tour for the 2025–2026 concert season.
With Radiance, Jeeyoon brings Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition to life, with each movement enhanced by stunning artwork from contemporary artists. Prepare for an engaging and innovative performance where music, art, and storytelling intertwine, creating an unforgettable celebration of beauty.
Jeeyoon’s piano performances are one-of-a-kind in that they often involve story telling, multimedia, visual art, poetry, and of course, the incredible piano repertoire.
China Arts and Entertainment Group Ltd. (CAEG) presented the U.S. premiere of an opera and dance theatrical musical production Lady Zhaojun Starring Chinese multi-award Singer Li Yugang and fellow performers from the China National Opera and Dance Drama Theater on Sunday, December 1, 2019 at 7:30 p.m. and Monday, December 2, 2019 at the San Diego Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave, San Diego, CA 92101.
On Tuesday, December 3, 2019, Renowned Chinese Performer Li Yugang and several cast members of Lady Zhaojun from the China National Opera & Dance Drama Theater and China Arts & Entertainment Group Ltd. visited and performed at e3 Civic High School in San Diego. Dr. Cheryl Ward, CEO and Chief Engagement Officer of e3 Civic High School and staff hosted the event. According to the e3 website, “the three “e’s” in e3 represent and drive our mission to Engage, Educate and Empower”.
Special Guest was Mrs. Jin Wang, Cultural Consul of Chinese Consulate General and her aide.
San Diego State University Professor Emeritus Li-Rong Lilly Cheng (Lilly Cheng) translated for the performers.
Westwind Brass and the Veterans Museum at Balboa Park join to present the ‘Brass in the Park’ Concert Series. Join us on Monday, December 10th for ‘Holiday Lights’ in the former San Diego Naval Hospital Chapel at Inspiration Point in Balboa Park, part of a complex of architecturally significant buildings with rich historical connections to the San Diego region’s naval heritage. The Veterans Museum is located at 2115 Park Blvd., San Diego, CA 92101.
Enjoy holiday music from many countries and every era, including traditional Christmas carols, Hanukkah music, and selections from a Klezmer’s Nutcracker Suite, Händel’s Messiah, as well as a few surprises.
The Veterans Memorial Center, Inc. was formed in March 1989 to create, maintain and operate an institution to honor and perpetuate the memories of all men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces and Wartime Merchant Marine. Learn more at our website: http://www.veteranmuseum.org/about
Westwind Brass exists to broaden and enrich the musical legacy of local, national and international audiences through performance and educational services featuring brass instruments and music. The group fields an ensemble of brass musicians who perform in various configurations of musicians featuring the unique timbre of brass instruments and performing the brass repertoire at a high artistic level. Westwind Brass is ensemble in residence at SDSU. Visit us at http://westwindbrass.org
New York City based Korean Illustration Artist Moonsun Shin will be collaborating with Classical Pianist Jeeyoon Kim on an exciting new project: ‘Over. Above. Beyond.’ Jeeyoon’s National CD Release Concert’ will be held on December 9th at the Auditorium at The Scripps Research Institute in San Diego (La Jolla).
Jeeyoon’s concert events combine dazzling technical mastery and profound musicianship with her personal commentary on stage. The ‘Over. Above. Beyond.’ concert will also feature a unique collaboration with Moonsub Shin’s newly commissioned art. Each of the twelve drawings by Mr. Shin depicts a movement of Variations on an Original Theme, Op. 21, No. 1 by Johannes Brahms, nicknamed the ‘philosophical variations’.
Here is our SJF Communications Q & A Interview with Moonsub Shin and Susan J. Farese:
SJF: Please tell us a bit about your upbringing.
MS: I’d lived in Daegu, South Korea until 2007 when I came to the United States. I was a normal kid who loved drawing. When I was a high school student, I decided to go into the art-field. However, my parents didn’t allow me to enter the art major for college right away. They wanted me to study media and society first, so I choose Advertising and Publicity for my college major. After I got my Bachelor’s degree, I studied art to prepare for art school.
SJF: Where did you study visual art/ illustration?
MS: In 2009, I was admitted to the School of Visual Arts (SVA) BFA program for Illustration and Cartooning in NYC. I studied for 2 years, then prepared for the MFA program in the same school. In 2012, I started the SVA MFA Illustration as Visual Essay program and received my Masters degree in 2014.
SJF: What compelled you to collaborate with Classical Pianist Jeeyoon Kim?
Moonsub Shin’s Drawing of Classical Pianist Jeeyoon Kim, Carnegie Hall, December 14, 2017
MS: First, I love Classical Music. When I was a student, I drew musicians frequently because their playing motions and feeling are a great theme of my work. So collaborating with Music as an artist has been one of my desire projects.
SJF: How did you decide to pursue illustration (rather than other visual arts, such as painting, sculpture, photography etc.)
MS: Actually, I wanted to be a character concept designer in an Animation Company such as Pixar or Disney. When I sought the ways to be a character concept designer, I found that studying illustration was one of them. So I decided to study illustration. However, while I’d studied illustration, I fell into the enchantment of it. Illustration should contain characters, color, appearances, feeling and storytelling at the same time in an image piece. I really felt these features.
SJF: Tell us about last year when you watched and did several illustrations of Jeeyoon’s Carnegie Hall concert?
MS: Carnegie Hall where she performed was really fit with her performance. I was compelled to draw her performance. The Piano, Carnegie Hall, the microphone stand and Jeeyoon – everything delivered stories to me so I really enjoyed that drawing time.
SJF: What inspires your art?
MS: Everything. Mostly, memories are strongly working when I get the inspiration. If something may contain some sources related my memory, it would inspire me.
SJF: You seem to be doing lots of cup drawings. How did you start with your cup drawing art? Can you explain more about the process?
Follow Moonsub Shin’s Blog with his coffee cup drawings and videos on Tumbler
MS: I used to draw cafe interior sketches in my journal but I now draw them on paper-cups instead. People loved it so I’ve been doing Paper Cup Drawings since then. Every cafe has their own paper cup, which means it contains each cafe’s identity. I think every cafe’s paper cup can be a distinguished canvas to draw the cafe. I try to contain each cafe’s specialty on the cup and it is still going on.
SJF: Do you get paid/compensated with the cup project?
MS: No, It is my personal project. I just visit some cafes with researching (but sometimes visit accidentally). Sometimes, when I give the cup drawing to a cafe, they present coffee or some goods. Recently, some company gave me a brewer machine. What a kind company…
SJF: Do you give them the cup when finished or keep it for a collection?
MS: I draw two cups. One is for my collection and the other is for the cafe.
SJF: Will any of the cups illustrations be mass produced?
MS: No, but some cafes request my illustration and some items with my illustrations – like mugs, sleeves, packages or boxes…
SJF: What is your hope for this project? TV? Other recognition?
MS: Um… Actually, I just want to collect paper-cup drawings. There is no specific purpose. I love coffee and cafes and this project is a really good motivation to reach another world – coffee. Because of this project, now I know many coffee people and it opens my eyes to the other world where it is not about an illustration. So this project is not only a simple personal project anymore. It’s brought many opportunities to promote me as an illustrator and extend my work abilities.
Now I have one dream. Visiting many cafes in the world and make as many cup drawings as I can. This project will be ongoing and I want to visit the West Coast as well as other countries where coffee is popular, such as Italy, Australia, France the UK and Japan. Finally, I want to have the exhibition when I collect over the 300 cups. I wish it. I’ve visited over the 100 cafes in NYC, Portland, Seoul, Jeju, Busan, and other cities.
SJF: Do you have any role models, female or male?
MS: Jean Jacques Sempe’, French illustrator. He is my role model. His lines are dramatic and deliver all kinds of emotions and stories in a single piece of an image. He knows how to use the drawing line to present image scenes. He’s never wasted drawing lines.
SJF: What does the phrase ‘Over. Above. Beyond.’ mean to you?
MS: Something, that is not Music but still is in the Music.
SJF: What are 3 values you believe in?
MS: Love, Faith and Faithfulness
SJF: What do you do for fun, hobbies, interests outside of illustrating?
MS: I love Coffee. Visiting cafes and enjoying the coffee is part of my life. Also I love to make coffee at home
SJF: How did you collaborate with Jeeyoon in the project, ‘Over. Above. Beyond.’ with the Brahms’ variation Op. 21, No. 1?
MS: First, I just listened to the music over and over again. Sometimes, I really focused on the music and other times, I just turned on the music while I worked.
When some images were released from my brain, I sketched them. When I repeated these process, I got some frames of the whole images.
A few days ago, I met Jeeyoon and she played the Brahms’ variation Op 21, No. 1 in front of me in the studio. While she played the variation, I made images more clearly.
When some parts were not clear to visualize, we discussed and found the theme and image that were good for it.
SJF: Have you ever worked with performing arts and drawing art together in the past? What is your general thought in terms of this kind of collaboration?
MS: For the fashion brand “Nan Seo”, we collaborated when they had a photo shoot for their F/W campaign. The theme was “Dancing with Father” and they hired a dancer. She was dancing on the beach and I drew her and a model.
Illustrating for the performance is not just drawing the scenes. It has to contain an invisible source such as sound, feeling and atmosphere. Also, I should make one scenery image that presents movements and time. So I have to listen to my emotions while I see and hear the performance and then find out the good images from my memories. It is the simply one process with complex steps.
SJF: Thank you so much Moonshin. It was great to get to know you and I look forward to your collaboration with Jeeyoon Kim at her national CD Release Concert, ‘Over. Above. Beyond.’ – December 9th at the Auditorium at The Scripps Research Institute.
Jeeyoon’s concert events combine dazzling technical mastery and profound musicianship with her personal commentary on stage. The ‘Over. Above. Beyond.’ project will also feature a unique collaboration with newly commissioned visual art by NY based illustrator, Moonsub Shin. Each of the twelve drawings by Mr. Shin depicts a movement of Variations on an Original Theme, Op. 21, No. 1 by Johannes Brahms, nicknamed the ‘philosophical variations’.
Audiences will experience a new, more engaging way of listening to a classical concert with her commentary on stage. This one-hour concert without an intermission will conclude with an after-concert reception.
Getting to Know Jeeyoon Kim
Q & A Jeeyoon Kim and Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
SJF: What has been your inspiration for your upcoming new CD/Album, ‘Over. Above. Beyond.’?
JK: I wanted to create a feeling of lightness and hope through my new album. I was imagining a bird flying over the horizon as an inspiration. Through music, we can fly together! SJF: Please tell us about your experience recording in NYC?
JK: I came back to NYC to record the ‘Over. Above. Beyond.’ album at Oktaven Studio where I recorded my previous album, ‘10 More Minutes’. I love going there, as Ryan Streber is an excellent recording engineer and their Hamburg Steinway D is fun to play! Recording is a totally different beast in itself compared to live concerts as there is no audience – yet you have to create an invisible world listening to you in that quiet space alone with microphones only. You would think it is somewhat easier to record than performing live, but it is in a way more difficult as there is another possible retake of the same piece mentally. I have to keep that live performance momentum for a longer time like 3 or 4 hours straight. In the beginning of the my recording process, I find myself wanting to have a live audience, but then I have started to enjoy this process as a completely different art form as it is; enjoying the limitless possibility I could experiment making subtle changes each time I play.
SJF: Are you happy with your new album?
JK: Haha. Yes! One said that when musicians record an album, they often get frustrated because they wish for their 20 or 30 years advanced version of them at that moment. I totally understand why they say that, we musicians are crazy in that way. But I learn to let go also. I think recording is just a slice of where I am now as a person and musician. Looking back this album in 30 years from now, I think I will be still okay with what is as I know I put everything I could during that moment. That is all I can do at any given moment.
SJF: Describe your experience ‘before, during and after’ at Carnegie Hall…
JK: It was an amazing experience. What surprised me the most was how much I could immerse myself into the music. I was at Carnegie Hall with one of the most amazing instruments and superb acoustic hall in the world, but I was in somewhere between here and heaven. Nothing mattered, nothing could even stop me going there. Before I went on stage, I was thinking as if it could be the last day of my life. When you think that way, it really liberates you. Little things didn’t matter. All I had to do is to walk on the stage with smile, putting my hands on the piano with overwhelming gratitude of that moment and the people, and being merely a cup for the music that I play.
After the Carnegie Hall concert, I was still myself. Well, I didn’t die afterwards either. Haha. Same sun, same moon, everything was same, except for the fact that I was stronger. I gained a great dose of love from the audience, a wonderful energy from the experience. I felt like I went through a bootcamp mentally and musically, and I’ve gained unreturnable strength by having to go through it.
SJF: What should an audience member expect or experience during your ‘Over. Above. Beyond.’ Concert?
JK: Well…First of all, I hope all of you can make it to my ‘Over. Above. Beyond.’ concert at some point! It will be somewhat familiar if you have been to my ‘10 More Minutes’ concert in the past. I will still guide you for each piece that I will be playing on stage, and yes, there will be no program at first but given out only when you leave the hall. Also there is no intermission for my concerts. I really like to keep the momentum going without a break, so please make your restroom stops before my concerts! It will run about an hour and 15 minutes or so!
And this concert will feature illustrations by a NY based artist, Moonsub Shin for Brahms’ Variation, Op. 21, No. 1. He created newly commissioned illustrations by listening to this piece. It was such a fun collaboration! When I played a piece, he also imagined some visuals in his head. Afterwards when we communicated with his visual images and what I was feeling, it was on point of what I was imagining but even better! This would be a very interesting experience for me and for the audience. I can’t wait to share my new experiment with you! I love it, and I am sure you will too.
SJF: How do you prepare for your concerts? Routines? Diet? Exercise? How many hours rehearsing?
JK: How I prepare for my concerts are exactly the same as how I have normally lived, in a way, since I was four years old. Haha. Playing piano everyday between 3 to 5 hours or so depending on the day, eating healthy, doing some variations of working out such as a workout with a trainer, swimming, yoga or simply going for a walk. I keep my morning practice routine as the first thing in the morning after a simple breakfast, and often do a mental practice when I first open my eyes in my bed. Sometimes going through the music, other times a self-affirmation in my mind. I don’t try to do anything so differently because of concerts as I feel that concerts are just an extension of my life.
SJF: What do you do for fun between concerts and appearances?
JK: I love traveling. I love the feeling of growth when you go to a new environment. I come back with a new perspective of life.
It may not sound so relaxing per se, but I do love studying other languages. That is really refreshing for me. It has been about a year since I started to study Spanish. I may not be the most fluent speaker yet, but I surely find it fun to exercise my brain while being able to communicate in a different language. Hablamos en español si puede por futuro!
JK: Is it? Absolutely not! We are all alone in our life journey. But we are never isolated as we are surrounded by all of our friends and family, and for me, with God. I believe the same thing on stage. I have music and you together, as I am walking with my own feet. It is full of love.
SJF: How should one listen to the new album?
JK: I wish for you to listen to it with closed-ear headphones if you can, with reading my description for each piece from my booklet. (You can find the digital version of it at www.OverAboveBeyondProject.com)
You might listen to all in one sitting or just one track at a time, but I hope you can listen to Brahms Op. 21, No. 1 from track number 4 through 15 in one sitting as it would make more sense to listen as a whole than breaking it down.
I also suggest that as you listen to any of my tracks, let your mind create a visual image in your head. And at a later time, if you find a suitable image in real time, take a photo with your phone, and share it with me through #OverAboveBeyondProject.
SJF: What are three values that you believe in?
JK: Three values I believe in are:
1. Live as if today is the last day of your life, focusing on now at any given moment
2. Always be thankful
3. Be compassionate
SJF: Many thanks Jeeyoon, and best wishes as you soar ‘Over. Above. Beyond.’!
“As a pianist, one of the most rewarding moments is when I feel that I have lifted someone’s soul with my playing and when I feel that I am deeply connected with listeners in the very moment of sharing music. It has become clear to me that it is why I make music. Through ‘Over. Above. Beyond.’, my wish is to give an audience a sense of hope, lightness, and a new beginning. These are pieces that have given me a sense of joy, weightlessness, and peace. Join me for this special flight and receive what music has given to us. Together let’s fly Over. Above. Beyond.”! –Jeeyoon
TICKET INFORMATION: Single General Admission tickets for the Classical Pianist Jeeyoon Kim’s ‘Over. Above. Beyond.’ Concertare $30 and are available at:
Devon Hadsell as Caitlyn Caussin in ‘Mean Girls’ Photo Courtesy of Devon Hadsell
We are thrilled to share this interview with equity Broadway performer Devon Hadsell, who plays Caitlyn Caussin in the ensemble of the Broadway mega hit – “Mean Girls“! Devon is also a principal role understudy (Gretchen, Mrs. Heron/Ms. Norbury/Mrs. George). She made her principal debut as Gretchen on July 24th.
I have known Devon since 2015 when she performed as Velma (and I was Director of PR/Marketing) in the regional professional production of West Side Story with San Diego Musical Theatre .
The Broadway production of Mean Girls was created by the team of Tina Fey (Book), Jeff Richmond (Music) and Nell Benjamin, (Lyrics), based on the 2004 Mean Girls film, starring Lindsay Lohan.
SJF: Thanks so much for this interview Devon! I know how busy you’ve been with the ‘Mean Girls‘ whirlwind of multiple nominations, awards, enduring the hectic schedule of eight performances a week, and then some! Let’s begin with you telling us about where you’re from, etc.
DH: I was born in Santa Barbara and moved to Napa when I was 5. I’m the oldest of 3 and have a younger sister and brother.
SJF: When did you first get interested in performing?
DH: My mom said I was singing before I could talk and dancing before I could walk. She put me in my first musical when I was 5 years old. I played Gretel in The Sound of Music at our community kids theatre which was called Broadway Bound Kids!
SJF: Why did you choose performing as a career?
DH: Since I was a kid, I’ve loved being on stage. There’s nothing quite like performing in front of an audience. My mom put me in dancing, singing, and acting lessons starting when I was 5 years old and I never wanted to stop. Nowadays, I do it because I love inspiring people.
SJF: Anything to mention about your college program at Cal State Fullerton ? Positives, challenges?
Devon Hadsell as Kira in ‘Xanadu’ at CSU Fullerton
Devon Hadsell as Tribe Member in ‘Hair’ at CSU Fullerton
Devon Hadsell as Understudy/Ensemble in ‘Marilyn : A New Musical’ at CSU Fullerton
DH: I’m so glad I went to college for performing and that I found Cal State Fullerton. I grew in ways I never would have been able to if it wasn’t for their Musical Theatre BFA program. Because of the showcase that the seniors got to do in New York, I found my amazing bi-coastal agent and got a taste of the city before actually moving here! The biggest challenge was managing classes, shows, rehearsals, AND homework all at once, but because I had to do all that at CSUF, I can manage any schedule thrown my way now!
SJF: What do you think your strengths are as a performer? What are you developing/strengthening?
DH: I think my biggest strengths as a performer are that I’m versatile, I’m great to work with, and I’m a fast learner. I’m constantly improving my technique and ability in all fields of performing as well as building up the proper stamina for getting through 8 shows a week for at least the next year!
SJF: Would you like to obtain Master’s degree in the future?
DH: I think a Master’s degree is something I would definitely be open to because I see myself teaching at the college level one day.
SF: Besides your Broadway debut in Mean Girls, Any National Tours? Highs and Lows of touring?
DH: Highs and Lows: I was in the national tour of The Little Mermaid a couple years ago and I absolutely LOVED it! It’s actually what got me my Equity card and gave me enough money to move to New York! What was hard was always packing and unpacking your suitcase after a week or two, but I really enjoyed visiting so many different cities around the U.S.
SJF: Explain the ‘Mean Girls’ Story in a Nutshell…
DH: Cady Heron is a homeschooled student who moves from Africa with her parents (who are biologists) to a public high school in Chicago, Illinois. She befriends the “Plastics”, the three popular, “mean girls” of the school, and quickly finds herself becoming one of them. In the end, she realizes that it’s okay not to like someone, but that we should always be kind and treat people with dignity.
SJF: Tell us about your interview process- when/where, how competitive it was, how many callbacks? Was Tina Fey present?
Devon Hadsell Recording for “Mean Girls’
Devon Hadsell Backstage at ‘Mean Girls’
Devon Hadsell as Caitlyn Caussin in ‘Mean Girls’
DH: I went to 5 callbacks for this role. At the first audition, there were over 400 girls who attended. For the callbacks, we did a dance combination and eventually had to sing. At the fifth and final callback, they had narrowed it down to 20 girls, and Tina Fey was present. We had to do the dance combo three at a time and then come in and sing and read sides for all the creatives by ourselves. It was the craziest and most amazing experience!
SJF: I can just imagine the stress and tension with the audition and then those multiple callbacks! Wow!
SJF: Tell us about your ‘Mean Girls’ role(s), Understudying? Etc.
DH: I play Caitlyn Caussin, a high school girl in the ensemble. I also get to understudy Gretchen AND all of the roles played by the Broadway star, Kerry Butler, which are Cady’s mom, Regina’s mom, and Ms. Norbury! I actually made my Broadway principal debut as Gretchen on July 24th of this year and it was AMAZING!!! It was so incredible to get to perform in a lead role on a Broadway stage and to know that the producers and members of the company believed in me too. My family also happened to be in town so they got to see me perform in the role as well! It was one of the best experiences of my life!
Devon Hadsell as Caitlyn Caussin in ‘Mean Girls’
SJF: That is so amazing! So thrilled that you made your Broadway principal role debut!
SJF: Any advice for BA, BFA, etc. students and others?
DH: Broadway is hard and the work doesn’t stop once you get there. You have to realize that there will be pros and cons just like any other job. You also have to figure out ways to nurture your passion of performing because there are a lot of hard things you have to deal with in this business. Never give up, always push forward with your goals in mind, and never stop training.
SJF: How has it been adjusting to living in NY- roommate(s)? Safety, etc.
DH: Oh my goodness. I am NOT a fan of New York! Haha. Even with a Broadway contract, I miss California every day… It’s a VERY different way of living and it was a hard adjustment at first. When I first moved to NY, I was living deep in Brooklyn and it took me at least an hour to get into Manhattan for auditions, but it was cheap and I had my own room and a lovely roommate. Now that I’m on Broadway, I was able to move to a studio just outside the city along the water that’s only a 20 minute commute. When you move to New York, you have to get used to a different way of living. You have to deal with public transportation, insanely high prices for everything, people being stressed and in a rush most of the time, everything being dirty, and being cramped in small spaces for a lot of your day. This city is not very glamorous unless you have a lot of money haha.
SJF: Ah! But I love going to NY to see shows when I visit my family in NJ! Despite the humidity, crowds etc.!
SJF: Any pre-show rituals? Post show events?
DH: I always have a pre-show Starbucks next to me as I do my makeup. I also have a little space backstage where I always do my warm-ups. After the show, a lot of us go to a restaurant/bar across the street that just opened up called Haswell Green!
SJF: Do you have (or have you had) fears? Doubts?
DH: Yes! Even once you get to Broadway, you have fears and doubts. EVERYONE is talented so you have to continue to believe that you ALSO have something special to bring to the table with your talent.
SJF: Well said Devon! What Motivates you?
Devon Hadsell
DH: I am very motivated by the fact that my performance has the ability to inspire others. Whether it makes people think about their lives, inspires them to live out their own dream, motivates them to want to change the world, or encourages them to connect with people, I think it’s a gift to have that ability.
SJF: That’s so astute! Hopefully I’ll get to see you perform on Broadway. I’m definitely inspired by your recent success!
SJF: Do you have any spare time hobbies, interests?
DH: I do! I love walks along the water, finding a new coffee shop, seeing other Broadway shows, and playing with puppies and kittens!
SJF: Cool! The last part about the puppies and kittens really brought the ‘AW” out in me!
SJF: Any particular role models in your life?
DH: I have many teachers who have been role models throughout my entire life. They have inspired me with their passion for performing and their love of their art whether it was acting, dancing, or singing. I am fortunate enough to still be in contact with most of them through Facebook and still ask for their advice when I need some guidance.
SJF: What was it like the first time with an audience for ‘Mean Girls’?
DH: It was UNREAL! My adrenaline was so high and everyone in the show was so excited! Our energy was unmatched! It was maybe even a little too heightened haha. It was a blast though. This show is so fun to share with family and friends.
SJF: Spill the beans about Tina!
DH: She’s extremely sweet! And surprisingly, she’s very quiet and reserved unlike her TV personalities. She’s so smart and kind and has such a wonderful and loving dynamic with her family.
DH: It’s all updated with current photos and my resume as well as a couple of videos of me singing and dancing!
SJF: Who are your Idols?
DH: Some of my idols are Michelle Obama, Rachel McAdams, Jennifer Lawrence, Jimmy Fallon, and definitely Tina Fey!
SJF: Top values in life?
DH: My top value in life is kindness. It always makes the world a better place when you can act out of love and kindness than out of fear, hate, or jealousy. It takes a strong person to be kind, but I’ve found it’s always worth the effort.
SJF: Dream Role (besides the one you have now)!
DH: I’d actually love to play the lead in Mean Girls, Cady Heron, one day. I’d also love to play Christine in Phantom of the Opera and Clara in Light in the Piazza.
Devon Hadsell
SJF: If you had to do it all over again…
DH: I honestly wouldn’t do anything different except to make sure I made a little more effort to stay in contact with friends and family. It’s so easy to get caught up in career stuff and forget about the things that really matter.
SJF: What 3 things don’t we know about you?
DH: 1) I am a cancer survivor! When I was 3 1/2 I was diagnosed with Wilm’s Tumor which is a child’s form of kidney cancer. They removed the tumor along with my right kidney and now I am deemed cancer free! 2) I am extremely organized and tidy and I weirdly think cleaning is fun. 3) I’d love to get into TV/film one day!
SJF: I am glad I asked that question. I would have never known about your surviving cancer at such a young age. Thanks for sharing that. As for the tidyness…interesting tidbit! Regarding TV/film, I have no doubt that you will pursue and be offered those creative endeavors!
SJF: Any difficult decisions throughout your life?
DH: The most difficult decision I ever made was to move to New York. I had no idea what I was doing, but just that I felt like I needed to do it. Needless to say, I am VERY glad I made that leap.
SJF: Thank you so very much Devon, it was such a pleasure to be back in touch and am so excited to hear all about Mean Girls and what’s in store for you in your future!
The Westwind Brass, San Diego’s Premier Professional Brass Ensemble, and Ensemble-in-Residence at the San Diego State University (SDSU) School of Music and Dance, announces their exciting interactive Concert Series entitled: ‘Brass in the Park’ at the Veterans Museum at Balboa Park 2115 Park Blvd., San Diego, 92101.
The Westwind Brass Ensemble, includes Elizabeth Howard, John Wilds and Karl Soukup (trumpets), Barry Toombs (horn), Eric Starr (trombone) and Bryan Smith (tuba).
The Westwind Brass Ensemble Courtesy Photo: Left to right: Dr. Eric Starr, Bryan Smith, Elizabeth Howard, Barry Toombs, John Wilds & Karl Soukup
“After more than 32 years, Westwind Brass Ensemble remains committed to serving the diverse communities that make up this great city of San Diego. We pledge to serve not only the San Diego that we know, but also the San Diego of the future.”
– Westwind Brass Executive Director: Barry Toombs (French Horn), US Navy Veteran
May 24 at 7pm – “A Night at the Speakeasy” (complete with a password for entry!). This show is one of our most popular. Westwind Brass adds a drummer for this very special show that takes the audience on a tour through the history of Jazz, from vaudeville and traditional, or “Hot” jazz through to the fusion jazz of the 1970’s. Venue permitting, we often perform this show in a “club” setting, complete with cash bar, but the show itself is fun (and informative!) for all ages.
June 14th at 7pm –“Amber Waves of Grain, a Celebration of Musical Americana” is Westwind Brass’ tribute to the music that has illustrated America’s journey over the past 200+ years. With lots of catchy tunes and interesting stories, this concert is a celebration of all of the things that make America truly great!
Sept 13 at 7 pm –“The Music of the Californias” is a program that reflects the long and storied history of the “Golden State”. Works include pieces from the mission era, the gold rush, and the golden age of Hollywood, along with some fun and interesting history.
The Westwind Brass exists to broaden and enrich the musical legacy of local, national and international audiences through performance and educational services featuring brass instruments and music. Westwind Brass musicians perform in various configurations of featuring the unique timbre of brass instruments and performing the brass repertoire at a high artistic level. Westwind Brass is a 501(c) (3) Public Benefit Corporation. For more information, visit Guidestar.org.
Thanks for visiting! Please feel free to Share this:
Photo: Courtesy of Westwind Brass Left to right: Dr. Eric Starr, Bryan Smith, Elizabeth Howard, Barry Toombs, John Wilds, Karl Soukup
Westwind Brass Announces Summer Brass Workshop
At SDSU School of Music & Dance
June 25-29, 2018
Free Concert June 30th at 1:00 pm
The Westwind Brass, San Diego’s premier professional brass ensemble, and an Ensemble-in-Residence at the San Diego State University (SDSU) School of Music and Dance, announces their exciting interactive 2018 Summer Brass Workshop at SDSU, June 25- 29, 2018, from 1:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.. This fun-filled week culminates in a free afternoon concert with the participant ensembles, on Saturday, June 30 at 1:00 p.m. at the School of Music and Dance.
The musicians of The Westwind Brass Ensemble are Elizabeth Howard, John Wilds and Karl Soukup (trumpets), Barry Toombs (horn), Eric Starr (trombone) and Bryan Smith (tuba).
“Each year, this week provides a cross-generational environment where we all have a chance to explore and develop skills in communication, collaboration, and creativity; and to engender a larger sense of community.”- Westwind Brass Executive Director: Barry Toombs (French Horn)
“The participants, young and old, receive an opportunity to work with some of the finest brass musicians in southern California. It is fun, informative, and relative to the music in their daily lives. What’s more, they have a chance to play in what will be, I believe, the greatest brass ensemble of their lives!”– Westwind Brass Director Educational and Outreach Programs: Bryan Smith
Photo Courtesy of Westwind Brass
Activities will include: Master Classes, Sectional Coaching, Ensemble Playing, Individual and Group Performances. Private lessons will be made available during the mornings for an additional fee.
In addition to the more traditional brass instrument training and ensemble experiences, this workshop will feature mini-seminars on such topics as sustainable practice routines; learning and performing solos; making use of technology in your music; and an interactive introduction to jazz and improvisation.
The Westwind Brass exists to broaden and enrich the musical legacy of local, national and international audiences through performance and educational services featuring brass instruments and music. Westwind Brass musicians perform in various configurations of featuring the unique timbre of brass instruments and performing the brass repertoire at a high artistic level. Westwind Brass is a 501(c) (3) Public Benefit Corporation. For more information, visit Guidestar.org.
Thanks for visiting! Please feel free to Share this:
Factory Seconds Brass Trio Photo Credit: Roger Mastroianni Left to right: Jesse McCormick (Horn), Richard Stout, (Trombone) & Jack Sutte (Trumpet),
The San Diego State University School of Music and Dance is thrilled to announce a visit and performance by the Factory Seconds Brass Trio on Tuesday, May 1, 2018 at the SDSU Smith Recital Hall. This free, one day residency features instrumental and chamber music masterclasses, culminating in a formal concert with select SDSU students.
Established in 2013, the Factory Seconds Brass Trio members include Jack Sutte (Trumpet), Jesse McCormick (Horn), and Richard Stout, (Trombone). Each member occupies the Second Chair position in their respective section with The Cleveland Orchestra, and all are faculty members at Baldwin Wallace Conservatory.
All events with the Factory Seconds Brass Trio on May 1st are free and open to the public, thanks to the Student Success Fee at San Diego State.
The schedule for the May 1st event includes:
2pm – Trumpet, Horn and Trombone Masterclasses
4:30pm – Chamber Music Masterclass and Open Rehearsal
7pm – Concert in Smith Recital Hall
Dr. Eric Starr, Lecturer, Brass Chamber Music and Performing Arts Internship Coordinator, states “Factory Seconds members are truly world class musicians. This is an incredible opportunity for our students to learn from, and perform with some of the foremost brass players in the world today”.
Quote from Richard Stout, Factory Seconds Brass Trio: “We are delighted to be reconnecting with old friends and making new ones; that this concert will include a chance to perform with SDSU students makes it a special event we are looking forward to.” -Richard Stout
Quote from SDSU Trumpet Student Lindsay Ross: “Many of our studio faculty members also perform in the San Diego Symphony, and other ensembles in southern California. In addition to having these perspectives, it will be a great opportunity to have other perspectives from other professional symphony orchestra musicians and studio professors.” – Lindsay Ross
The mission of San Diego State University’s School of Music and Dance is to provide the highest quality education for performers, choreographers, educators, researchers, and those who may be in fields related to music and dance. In addition, the School of Music and Dance is committed to provide the general student, our future audience, with the deepest understanding and appreciation of music and dance. The School of Music and Dance serves a varied intellectual and ethnic student body in a culturally rich environment.
Through specialized faculty/student contact, the use of technology, an international programmatic focus, and our relationship with community, regional and national organizations, the School provides career development opportunities, enhances critical thinking abilities, and nurtures new generations of artists,choreographers, teachers, scholars and other professionals. Ultimately, the School of Music and Dance serves as a dedicated resource for excellence in performance, choreography, teaching, research, and creative activity.
###
Thanks for visiting! Please feel free to Share this:
Classical pianist Jeeyoon Kim will have her Carnegie Hall debut presented by Captivate Artists on Thursday, December 14, 2017 at 7:30 p.m. at Weill Recital Hall. She will perform selected pieces from her latest album, “10 More Minutes” which Jeeyoon has often performed as encores, the result of audiences asking her to play for “ten more minutes” of her captivating artistry.
Jeeyoon Kim’s concert events combine dazzling technical mastery and profound musicianship with her personal commentary on stage. Audiences will experience a new, more engaging way of listening to a classical concert. Gordon Brown from Classical Radio Station XLNC-FM proclaims “She is simply a force of nature, one who lives for that special connection with a live audience”. Jeeyoon states, “I envision this album as if we are enjoying “tapas”, instead of a heavy five-course meal. This “musical light fare” includes familiar works by Schubert, Chopin, Schumann and Debussy”.
Jeeyoon received her Doctorate of Music and Masters of Music in Piano Performance from Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University. A recent winner of the Beverly Hills National Audition for classical musicians in 2017-18 season, Jeeyoon will perform a series of concerts across the country, and as a soloist playing Rhapsody in Blue at the Hilbert Theatre in Indianapolis. She is a frequent performer for Chamber Music San Francisco, PianoForte Salon Live Series, and the La Jolla Music Society Discovery Series, among others.
Jeeyoon Kim Carnegie Hall Debut “10 More Minutes” December 14, 2017 Weill Recital Hall
Some testimonials about Jeeyoon Kim:
“In addition to her mastery of the instrument, Jeeyoon’s music-making transcends the piano, and has the ability to transport the listener directly into the world of the composer. So captivating and powerful…” -Demarre McGill, Acting Principal Flute of The Metropolitan Opera Orchestra
“Absolutely phenomenal! She brought tears to my eyes with her playing. What a sensitive and gifted pianist…” – Susan Kitterman, former Artistic director of New World Youth Symphony
“Beautiful control of the Instrument, superior technique, and all of that emotion shows up in her sound as well as watching her. I am awed by her talent. It would be criminal for the world not to hear Jeeyoon perform.”– Gary Walters, performing artist and jazz pianist
“Impeccable, brilliant and heart-rending…”
-Chiesa Nuova (Performing Arts Foundation, Chicago)
“Warm tone and a wide range of colors in her expressions. No matter what she plays, the clarity of texture was never compromised … “ -Ryan Streber, Producer, Oktavan Audio, NYC
TICKET INFORMATION: Single General Admission tickets for the Classical Pianist Jeeyoon Kim’s “10 More Minutes” Carnegie Hall Debut Concert (Weill Recital Hall) are $35 and are available at:
1) in person at the Carnegie Hall Box Office (57th Street and Seventh Avenue, NY, NY, 10019) Monday through Saturday, from 11 AM–6 PM and Sunday, 12 PM–6 PM);
“Susan Farese, SJF Communications helped Westwind Brass double the size of our audiences at the Maritime Museum of San Diego. She also helped us to double the number of participants at our 2017 Summer Brass Workshop at San Diego State’s School of Music and Dance. She is savvy with all forms of media; print, TV, and radio. She is also very proactive on social media. She is willing to think, and work, outside of the box, and isn’t afraid to say what she is thinking. I highly recommend SJF Communications to all arts organizations in the San Diego area.”
-Bryan Smith, Tuba; Director of Educational and Outreach Programs
Catch the last two performances (June 30th at 9 p.m. and July 1st at 4 p.m.)
of Pop Theater’s first act of
‘The Beautiful Machine’ –
A Sci-Fi, Pop/Rock Musical
at the 5th Annual San Diego International Fringe Festival
Centro Cultural de la Raza, Balboa Park, San Diego
The Beautiful Machine is set in a dystopian, futuristic enclosed city. The government has turned to inhumane population control techniques, exterminating those who do not qualify as “complete” or “viable” specimens for procreation. Ben Phoenix, a newly promoted engineer has recently been exiled to the dark fringes of society. Alone and distraught, he has been left with nothing, and yet he is the most talked about person in the city. Why is his name on so many tongues? Why is everyone fighting to recruit him? Is he the one with the key to bringing down the regime?
THE FIRST THREE PERFORMANCES WERE FILLED TO CAPACITY!
ONLY 2 MORE CHANCES TO SEE THIS ORIGINAL PRODUCTION!
The Beautiful Machine is produced, co-written and composed by Mike Neumann (Pop Theater), co-written by Josh Switzer and Directed by Domonique Evans, a graduate student in the SDSU MFA Musical Theatre program, one of only two such programs in the United States. Neumann, a math teacher at San Ysidro High School, calls The Beautiful Machine “Sci-Fi and Pop Music – a recipe for fun!” and his inspiration was “wanting to make musical theater “non-believers” into fans of the genre, by connecting theater to a musical style that is easily accessible by everyone”. Pop Theater is an up-and-coming theater group debuting its first production in the San Diego International Fringe Festival! Their vision is to expand the genre of the Sci-Fi musical and bring more fans to musical theater.
Mike Neumann, Lyrics/Music, ‘The Beautiful Machine’
The inspiration for Director Domonique Evans “came from my previous directors in both high school and the collegiate level. Without them I wouldn’t be the man or performer I am today. I would love to impact, inspire, and guide our next generation as I was.” Domonique’s view on The Beautiful Machine is “A story about evolution and a government that is afraid of any kind of change”.
The Beautiful Machine Cast includes: Chris Chiles as Ben Phoenix, Brent Roberts as Roman Valice, Kimberly Moller as Clarity Providence, Lindsey Denham as Xandelle Jackson, Jillian Jackson as Anna Phoenix and Kitty Baton Rouge, Leo Chang as Jimmy Philadelphia, Emmy Farese as Charlotte (and Understudy Clarity), Terence J. Burke as President, Riece Johnson as Dibbs, Alexandra Lee as Sydney Bismarck (Understudy Xandelle), and Thomas Reasoner as Conway (Understudy Ben).
‘The Beautiful Machine’ extends thanks to their generous DONORS – without whom this would not be possible : Vicky & Bill McGinnis, Gina & Mike Farhar, Michael & Ruth Neumann, Jennifer Feddish, Kendra Tracy, Simon Schwartz, Carlos “Senpai” Luna, Ashley McCann, Joyce Inzunza, Ann & Rafael Montiel, Joey Thompson, Marie Thompson, Randa O’Connor, Miriam Haughey, Mike Byrne, Amy Walsh, Nina Stoddard, Elaina Scott, Richard Ho, Jennifer Lane, James Hall, Lucas Williams, and Thomas Nielsen.
Special thanks from ‘The Beautiful Machine’ to: Imran Shiekh – ‘The Beautiful Machine’ heart logo design; Shannon van der Reck- Prop Design; San Diego Steampunks – Promo photos; Jenny Lane and New Works Studio– Invaluable help and advice; Joe DeMers – Pianist; Susanna Vaughn- Assistant Choreographer; SJF Communications– Promotion & Media; Chloe Clark- Light Board Operator; Michael Short Photography-Videography; Chris Armstrong-transporting & moving props; and Hans Neumann- For believing in his Dad.
Here’s a video from ‘The Beautiful Machine’ appearance on ‘Tonight in San Diego‘:
Friday, June 30 – 9:00 pm; & Saturday, July 1 – 4:00 pm
Look for ‘The Beautiful Machine’ Album release in July on Spotify!
Cast performing musical selection from ‘The Beautiful Machine’
Chris Chiles performing in ‘The Beautiful Machine’
Production/Creative Team, ‘The Beautiful Machine’
‘The Beautiful Machine’ in Green Room of ‘Tonight in San Diego’: Left to right: Jeannee Hogan, Chris Chiles, Emmy Farese, Domonique Evans, Mike Neumann, Susan Farese, Josh Switzer
Host of ‘Tonight in San Diego’ with Emmy Farese
‘The Beautiful Machine’ performers on “Tonight in San Diego’: Chris Chiles & Emmy Farese
Logo Image ‘The Beautiful Machine’ on ‘Tonight in San Diego’
Westwind Brass Ensemble. Left to right top: Elizabeth Howard, Karl Soukup, Barry Toombs, Dr. Eric Starr; Bottom, left to right: John Wilds, Bryan Smith
The Westwind Brass, San Diego’s premier professional brass ensemble, and Ensemble-in-Residence at the San Diego State University (SDSU) School of Music and Dance, announces their exciting interactive ‘Summer Brass Workshop’ at SDSU, July 10-14, 2017, from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. followed by a free afternoon concert with participant ensembles, Saturday, July 15 at 1 p.m.
The Westwind Brass Ensemble, includes Elizabeth Howard, John Wilds and Karl Soukup (trumpets), Barry Toombs (horn), Eric Starr (trombone) and Bryan Smith (tuba).
The Westwind Brass Ensemble Left to right: Dr. Eric Starr, Bryan Smith, Elizabeth Howard, Barry Toombs, John Wilds, & Karl Soukup
“After more than 30 years, Westwind Brass Ensemble remains committed to serving the diverse communities that make up this great city of San Diego. We pledge to serve not only the San Diego that we know, but also the San Diego of the future.”
– Westwind Brass Executive Director: Barry Toombs (French Horn)
“This workshop is open to brass instrument players of all ages and ability levels. Participants will have the opportunity to play a lot, and explore a wide range of ensemble types and musical styles, such as brass quintets, trios, and solos, in both the classical and jazz styles. Each day will close with a large brass ensemble. An emphasis will be places on fun and harmony!”
– Westwind Brass Director of Educational and Outreach Programs: Bryan Smith
Activities will include: Master Classes, Sectional Coaching, Ensemble Playing, Individual and Group Performances. Private lessons will be made available during the mornings for an additional fee.
In addition to the more traditional brass instrument training and ensemble experiences, this workshop will feature these mini-seminars:
“How to Start Improvising”
“Who Has the Time? The Road to an Efficient, Sustainable Practice Routine”
“How to Learn and Perform a Solo”
“Using Technology to Make Your Music, and Get It Heard”
Plus: “A Tour of the SDSU School of Music and Dance Facilities”.
Price Information for Summer Workshop: Students/Military: $150.00; Adults: $175.00.
The Westwind Brass exists to broaden and enrich the musical legacy of local, national and international audiences through performance and educational services featuring brass instruments and music. Westwind Brass musicians perform in various configurations of featuring the unique timbre of brass instruments and performing the brass repertoire at a high artistic level. Westwind Brass is a 501(c) (3) Public Benefit Corporation. For more information, visit Guidestar.org.
###
Thanks for visiting! Please feel free to Share this:
“Shared Misanthropy” circa 1996 at home in Benedict Canyon Hedges Capers & Nancy Locke Capers
La Jolla, California couple Hedges Capers and Nancy Locke Capers are truly an extraordinary couple! They are married co-creators and co-writers of The Geeze & Me– an original “boomer” musical about aging…which will have it’s World PremiereMarch 31 – April 29, 2017 in San Diego at TheTenth Avenue Arts Center.
Hedges, formerly of the folk duo Hedges & Donna (with ex-spouse Donna Carson, during the late 1960’s-early 70’s), is The Geeze & Me Composer/Lyricist and also plays several characters in the production (David, the Soap Boxer and Beat Poet) and Nancy, a member of the Director’s Guild of America,SAG-AFTRA is the Producer & Director.
According to Hedges and Nancy:
The Geeze & Me is a funny, irreverent, and poignant original musical. This timely show features a comedic troupe of eccentric players who team up to wrangle aspects of aging from an expert. An eclectic blend of songs ranging from pop to blues to corner street doo-wop, accompanied by innovative choreography. The perils and benefits of growing older are reflected in the concerns of this diverse group of people.
Think “Hair,” after it’s gone.
THIS IS THE DAWNING OF THE AGE OF BEWARE OF US
(Read more about The Geeze & Me below following the interviews)
Connecting with Hedges and Nancy for SJF Communications to provide PR/Publicity for The Geeze & Me has been a total joy and is never dull! Hedges is truly a master wordsmith and composer/lyricist/musician and Nancy, Actress-Psychotherapist, is warm, open, nurturing and very astute. They are equally excited about The Geeze & Me!
I am so proud to interview this “chill” dynamic duo, partners in personal life-and in the biz!
Without further ado….introducing our interview with Hedges Capers followed by Nancy Locke Capers!
Meet Hedges Capers by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
Photos courtesy of Hedges Capers and Nancy Locke Capers
Hedges Capers & Nancy Locke Capers in 1999
Hedges Capers & Donna Carson
Hedges Capers & Donna Carson
Hedges Capers
Hedges Capers & Nancy Locke Capers
Hedges Capers; Photo by Ken Jacques
Q & A with Hedges Capers by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
SJF: Tell us about yourself, where were you born? Where have you lived?
HC: My father was a Navy Chaplain …the longest time I spent in one location was two years…until I was 50 – then I was stable for three years. It has been four years now and I’m planning on more in the San Diego/La Jolla area.
I was born in Princeton NJ…I lived in Pennsylvania, Kansas, Virginia, New York, Guam, California (Monterey, San Francisco, La Jolla, L.A., San Diego, Whittier, Beverly Hills, Benedict Canyon, Laurel Canyon, Hollywood, Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach), Japan, Washington State & Washington DC and Hawaii. And some I don’t remember !
SJF: You have certainly lived EVERYWHERE! When did you first perform?
HC: My first performance was 1959 on board ship to Japan…I sang Endless Sleep and Shimmy Shimmy Ko-Ko-Bop. I began writing lyrics at age 11 and started composing music when I was 15. I received my BA at Whittier University and Masters of Arts at the University Without Walls, a tutorial program out of U.C. Berkeley. Private lessons: I’ve never had a music lesson, I tried a vocal lesson 5 years ago when I was unable to sing at all. The lesson was unsuccessful, but it led to my vocal cord surgery which thankfully was successful and instrumental in the content of our show.
SJF: Tell us about you as an actor
HC: I did theatre shows in college; Pajama Game – Playboy Of The Western World – Zoo Story – Rashomon and a few others… but I just wanted to be a singer I never thought about acting. … I went to college because I didn’t know how to get into the music industry (even after having signed a recording contract in 1961 at age 16). I didn’t want to pump gas or marry Leigh Deane Larson… I formed a trio my first week of college- we were hired to sing at a hotel dining bar 2 days after we met and sang together for four years at Whittier. We signed with Dot Records in 1966 and released a single in Japan which we were told made the charts there to #7.
In 1970 I had the title role in The Legend of Hillbilly John. The producers didn’t know whether they should get an actor they hoped could sing or a singer they hoped could act… the final two choices were Arlo Guthrie and myself… a stunning cast of amazing character actors Denver Pyle, Harris Yulin, RG Armstrong, Susan Strasberg and more.
SJF: Any low times?
HC: Hearing a group of kids ask Donna (my ex-wife and former duo partner) if she knew me? She said “Yes he’s my husband” – they looked at her then back at me then back at her and said “He doesn’t look at all black” but in their world it was not possible that a white man and a black woman could be married.. the only possibility was that I must be black… that night I wrote
“No child of mine’s gonna have to plant no god damn cotton. No child of mine ever gonna harvest up the rain No child of mine’s ever gonna have to know that pain. Steeple people twisted children God’s almighty bent and broken they went to Little Rock all alone and God went home”.
Anger and hurt were the emotions…Donna was pregnant and I was wondering are we doing to this child-any favors bringing him into THIS?
SJF: Tell us about your duo Hedges and Donna
HC: We opened for Nina Simone, Judy Collins and Bobby Hebb, Harry Belafonte, Neil Diamond, OscarBrown Junior and Jean Pace, Ritchie Havens … Groups that opened for us? Jackson Browne, Blood Sweat and Tears, James Taylor, Ritchie Havens, Hoyt Axton, Joni Mitchell and lots more…
SJF: Highs of your career?
HC: Too many highs to list them all …Headlining the Philadelphia Folk Festival… The Smothers Brothers Show, Carnegie Hall, The Tonight Show three times.
SJF: …and Lows?
HC: Lows… for a sad reason. At the Atlanta International Pop Festival 1970… the crowd estimates vary even today between 200,000 and 600,000 people… 750,000 was the count the artists were given…much larger than Woodstock. This was deep South… we had played The Hungry I in SF with Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs and were told by them ”You all can come”…it was their nod of approval to our music… as we performed on stage at the festival we were buzzed repeatedly by a series of Lear and larger jets… no other act had that happen… We were told later that Lester Maddox had orchestrated that as a show of his objection…
SJF: What differentiates you as a composer, writer, performer, former therapist, corporate biz guy?
HC: I don’t have a clue….but maybe? I’ve always loved lyric and loved word play… as a 5 year-old, I went to a school with first thru eighth grade in the same classroom and above the black board the alphabet and numbers were written out … I stared and then saw U R N U 2 B 4 U 4 U R 1 U C A B U T U Q U 2 B U. U 1 2 B 4 U? I 1 2 B 4 U 2! OG.
Language in Thought and Action by S.I Hiyakawa was my English book in high school. Albert Upton was my freshman college English professor and he was Hiyakawa’s chief semantic rival. I was partnered with the original Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) research team and was the first person certified to train for the Process Communication Model(PCM), the only two process models for human interaction…
All that to say I have had an extraordinary exposure to how words affect people, and I am pretty sure I’ve never looked at a phrase with that lens consciously.
SJF: Tell us about The Geeze & Me
HC: I would love to see The Geeze & Me on Broadway… In Vegas, and Branson and touring groups in regional theaters all over… I would love folks to feel that passion of “It ain’t over until the fat lady sings and there ain’t a lady fat enough to sing for this generation …” I would like people to hear the research regarding aging and feel empowered. I’d like to stand outside a theater in NY and hear people humming or singing “HOW OLD DO YOU FEEL?”
SJF: I am singing that tune all the time already!
SJF: What is your strongest asset?
HC: I love people! And I think I understand their worth.
SJF: Tell us two wonderful things and two difficult aspects of being YOU
HC: 1. I love the way my mind works especially with words… as they flutter by like Butterflies…Or like the way I hear Guilt and my mind says “it’s just decorative stuff that goes around mirrors (gilt) unless you put U in it… or being ‘now and here’ is really being ‘nowhere’ where you know where you are… I have developed a patience in my late 60’s that I never dreamed I’d have…2. Difficult aspects… my grief is way too close to the surface… I see it too clearly in too many places too much of the time.
SJF: Tell me what makes Hedges “TICK”
HC: I use to say “I’m just moving slide to slide and sucking on the main stream… but I think I was just being flippant… I think I just want to see my kids headed to something that might be full with enough joy to be really worthwhile and I still want to see a bit of tomorrow.
SJF: If you had to do it over again…how would you choose what do in life as a career/profession?
HC: I have been blessed to have done exactly as I dreamed.
SJF: What two things don’t we know about you?
HC: I don’t know what you do know so it’s hard to know what you don’t but…If you have asked me something I will tell you. I haven’t found it useful to hide
SJF: What are your fears??…
HC: I’ve had anxiety attacks at different times in my life that were debilitating… I think as a result of several years of drug experimenting… sniff, swallow or smoke without question…a really stupid period. Fortunately for me the era of designer drugs had not arrived then or I may have died as my son did.
I think I also fear I was not the father I should have been… my kids deny this but how can we ever really know?
SJF: Any regrets?
HC: 1- Not having been able to prevent my son’s death. 2- Not being cleaner with how I separated from Donna… I didn’t want to be the “bad” guy and so I drug things out instead of saying “I won’t do this, I’m leaving you.” Explanations can just muddy the water and invite attempts to change ones mind.
It is hard to have regrets when you are given the opportunity to live a life long dream. At 7 or 8 that’s what I wanted. At 7 we went to the Grand Canyon and my folks put my sister and me on the mule ride at the bottom of the canyon. It seemed like my mule wanted to nibble on things growing on the fall and you die side of the path. I was in tears but the path is too narrow to turn around or dismount and walk back so I had to go all the way… I cried until I realized my fear was unfounded… but my parents could hear me singing filling the Grand Canyon with joy for 45 minutes before the mules reached the top.
… if I reach for one regret, it’s that I didn’t do a better job of keeping clippings and songs and the journal writing I sometimes did… Moving as much as I did I never kept “things”- I would love to have been able to share those with my kids.. but … And the songs that were written that have been forgotten.
SJF: An ideal week for you would be…
HC: Watching The Geeze and Me on Broadway with my family and friends- playing golf (well!) with my buds.. singing … eating Swiss enchiladas.. swimming in warm water, walking on the beach at sunrise and again at sunset… hearing the world laugh … discovering that there really is an afterlife that works well enough to make any pain of this life irrelevant … KNOWING that I did what I was here to do, knowing, without a doubt.
SJF: What have been your life hurdles?
HC: 1. I was told at 16 my sibilance was so bad I would for sure never be able to be a recording artist…2. My height: I was 4’11” as a Junior in high School 3. I can’t sing the way I want to sing… ( I like the way I sing… it’s that there are ways I can’t that I’d love to but I think men don’t have the tool women have…).
I don’t think there have really been any hurdles because my life is evidence that I haven’t been stopped. There are things I haven’t done but the choice to not pursue has been mine, I have stopped.
Hedges Capers & Nancy Locke Capers in 1999
Meet Nancy Locke Capers by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
Photos courtesy of Hedges Capers and Nancy Locke Capers
Nancy Locke Capers in “Tales of the Lost Formicans” by Constance Congdon
Nancy Locke Capers in “Dead and Buried”, 1981
Nancy Locke Capers with Kevin McCarthy in “Hostage” (South Africa)
Nancy Locke Capers in “Pretty Woman”
Nancy Locke Capers in “Pretty Woman”
Nancy Locke Capers in Jane Fonda Work-Out Wear Commercial
Nancy Locke Capers in “Sweet Justice” Legal Drama
Nancy Locke Capers with Karen Black on set of “Hostage”
Nancy Locke Capers on “A.M. San Francisco”
Q & A with Nancy Locke Capers by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
SJF: Tell us about your upbringing, family, siblings, schooling, etc.
NLC: I was born in the SPAM capital of the world – Austin, Minn. We were solid middle-class. I grew up in Minnesota & Mt. Lebanon, Pittsburgh. Came to Glendale, California when I was 11. My Mother was a singer and housewife and my Dad was a businessman.
I have an older brother who is an international trade Attorney and previously worked in the White House as Legal Counsel under former Presidents Nixon & Ford. My sister, ordained in the Episcopal Church, was a Chaplain at San Francisco General Hospital in the 80s, during the A.I.D.S. epidemic. I returned to school at age 40 and have my Masters of Arts degree in Counseling Psychology. (Still think about going for my PhD. I’m a knowledge-hound.)
SJF: When did you begin acting?
NLC: I began acting when I was tapped for a Kimbie’s diapers hidden camera commercial with my baby son. Shortly thereafter, Geoff Lewis (Juliette Lewis’s wonderful dad) walked into my kitchen and asked me if I wanted to be in a movie. I said, “Sure.” He coached me on how to audition on the way to the meeting at Sunset Plaza, with the director, Floyd Mutrux. I auditioned, and when it was clear I was a terrible actor, he said “I have a waitress part with 11 or 12 lines. Do you think you could handle that?” and I was off to the races. A friend of mine, Robert F. Lyons, began teaching acting around this time and thought I might enjoy taking classes. I studied with him for two years before going on my 2nd audition.
SJF: Who have you taken private lessons with?
NLC: In acting: Milton Katselas, Robert F. Lyons, Joan Darling, John Voight. In Producing: Ron Schwartz, Jim Aubrey. Directing: Garry Marshall, Ulu Grossbard, Dwight Little, etc. You pick up a lot just being around a set.
SJF: Were you always enthused about acting?
NLC: Not at all. I didn’t really begin until I was 30. My son was a baby and so I didn’t start seriously auditioning until I was 30.
SJF: What are some highlights of your acting career?
NLC: “Pretty Woman” of course was so much fun to work on. I learned a lot from Garry Marshall and how he handled actors. True Confessions with Robert Duvall and Robert De Niro – I worked in a scene (later cut), but he was the kindest, most generous man. He completely normalized any nerves I was feeling. By the way, Milton Katselas used to say that “nerves are our talent trying to get out.” He put a positive frame on having nerves. He also said, “If you’re not nervous then you should be concerned.” That might be a tip-off that you’ll give a flat performance.
SJF: Have there been any low times?
NLC: I was previously married to an actor/director/writer and so we were each doing our separate jobs. The low times were really when the jobs weren’t coming in and the bank account was running out. Ninety-nine percent of SAG members don’t make a living at acting. We were able to live nicely and reap the benefits of being working actors. I made a decision not to do on-location work, which definitely impacted my hire-ability. I wanted to be a mom to my son and step-daughter. I’m not sure that I experienced “low time” because of it, but I felt it was more important to have a responsible adult at home, and my former spouse was working actively during that period and wasn’t able to provide childcare.
SJF: Any Pretty Woman stories?
NLC: Yes, but not sure I’d want to go public with them. Richard Gere was a perfect gentleman and quite kind. Jason Alexander was hilarious. Julia was like a fresh colt, very excited to be working on the film, along with everyone else.
SJF: Jane Fonda stories?
NLC: I was a spokesperson for Jane Fonda Work-Out Wear in the ’80s. They chose 3 women out of 700, so I felt incredibly lucky. We met. She congratulated me on getting the job. She was very kindhearted.
SJF: What differentiates you as a director, performer, person, actor, therapist, corporate biz person?
NLC: Hmmm. My humor? My curiosity in all things? My experiences with tragedy. I’m not sure. But I lost my parents at ages 18 & 26, so all three of us (me, sister, brother) have fairly wicked senses of humor as a coping mechanism. I think it’s a survival mechanism for those struck with tragedy as a young person. All my life I’ve found most people endlessly interesting. This, of course, reflects the kind of work I’ve chosen as an actor, writer and psychotherapist.
SJF: Tell us about The Geeze & Me
NLC: It began as a lark. Hedges had some unrecorded songs that were fantastic. I’d been missing the theatre world, so I thought maybe I could fashion a love story around those existing songs. But then, I (or he, one forgets who brings what to the table in collaboration) decided to do something about aging. We’re the largest demographic of elders in the history of the world.
So, Hedges went to bed at night and would wake up with this wonderful, funny, deep music that surprised both of us. It just came rolling out of him. He used to be a staff writer at A & M, so he knew songwriting structure. And so then I had to actually learn how to write a musical. This was tortuous and enchanting, but I don’t have a musical bone in my body. Thank goodness he was so prolific. At some point, we both began collaborating on the book. Somewhere (when it was still a little theater idea) it became clear that I would direct it-which was and is terrifying. It would be terrific if it had legs and went on to tour in regional theatres, etc.
SJF: What is your strongest asset?”
NLC: My publicist.
SJF: LOL!!! Thanks, Nancy! You make my work easy!
SJF: Tell us two wonderful things about being a Psychotherapist.
NLC: Two wonderful things:
1. It is an honor to do the psychotherapeutic work I do. When people say, “Ugh, how can you stand listening to problems all day” I don’t understand why they think this is difficult or depressing. In fact, it’s the opposite. It’s energizing when someone talks with you on a deep, intimate level that does not often happen outside of the office. It’s invigorating to give another the space to explore safely. It’s a privilege.
2. Seeing suffering in all its disparate forms is humbling.
SJF: And two difficult aspects as a Psychotherapist?:
NLC: 1. I can’t fix them in 10 minutes. I have to let them take the time they need to heal and arrange their life differently or get out of a bad relationship. 2. There’s a chronic sense of loss in my job. People move, people don’t need you anymore, people have a hard time staying in therapy when they should – so, one learns to deal with it, but you invest YOURSELF in your clients. That’s a big part of the job. It’s in the relationship, the trust, the consistency, the non-judgmental dialog that allows a patient to heal.
SJF: Tell me…what makes Nancy “TICK”?”
NLC: I’m alive. That, and sheer terror. Joking. Kind of.
SJF: If you had to do it over again…how would you choose what do in life as a career/profession?
NLC: Well, primarily, I would not join a cult (Scientology). That was really an attempt to grab ahold of something, anything that gave me structure and the appearance of answers at that point of my life. I could have studying for my PhD. But I think you have to be allowed to explore and pay attention to what turns you on. Go where your passion leads you, if you’re lucky enough to have the time and financial support to do so. I think “following your bliss” just is not an option for most people, but that changes with age. For me I’ve been allowed to return to the world of the theatre which I’ve been away from for 20 years.
SJF: What two things don’t we know about you?
NLC: That I know how to make a delicious Hartquist Spring Salad Sandwich. And that I was on TWA flight 840 that exploded in mid-air over Greece.as a result of a terrorist bomb in 1986. I was on my way to Greece to meet my former husband on a film he was making. Ten days later I had to fly to South Africa as the lead in a film (Hostage) about terrorism, shooting in the fuselage of a plane for six weeks. We then had to go to Dallas to shoot a film we’d written.
SJF: What are your fears?
NLC: I think I have the usual fears that all parents have. I fear something happening to my son. Losing my stepson at age 20 was, and is, indescribably sad. Oddly enough, I don’t fear flying.
SJF: How do you “give back”?
NLC: We’re donating 50% of The Geeze & Me revenues to: A New Path, PATH, LGBT Senior Care, and The Unbattle Project. We’ve also given to the UCSD Center for Healthy Aging.
SF: Any regrets?
NLC: Of course.
SJF: Enough said!
SJF: Ideal week for you would be…NLC: Travel to Maui, read a great novel, swim in the ocean with mi amoré. (Kind of what I do here anyway….)
SJF: What have been your life hurdles? Successes?”
NLC: Overcoming panic disorder. Feeling like I’m not “enough”. Not being thin enough. Not being pretty enough. You know, typical American woman hurdles.
Successes? As I look back on my life, I’m aware that I’ve felt chosen by casting directors, by a director, by the producer. But I am also aware that it’s a roll of the dice. I’m not sure I take any particular pride in being chosen. I think the successes also had to do with persistence. You just kept doing it. And I was able to keep doing it because of nepotism or having a good day at that audition, or knowing the right person. I learned at some point that the confidence game is really about acting “as if.” I’ve seen major actors get squeamish if they have a crying scene coming up, whereas I’d worked with “lesser” actors who could cry on a dime. If one chooses a profession in theatre/films, you have to love doing it. It’s terribly hard on people because of the rejection rate. But, Mark Ruffalo went on 600 auditions before being chosen. You have to be good enough when you stumble upon an opportunity.
I tend to be a risk-taker. For example, this is my first time directing a musical. I have great support from extremely talented others – BJ (musical director), Hedges, having a great staff, fantastic cast. Feeling the fear and doing it anyway. That’s how we grow.
SJF: Who is your inspiration?
NLC: My mother. I’ve gotten to live the life she would have loved.
SJF: What are your 5 year and 10 year goals?
NLC: Seriously? That goal setting never works for me. Even when I’ve been diligent. I never said, “I’m going land a part on Dynasty in 5 years!” So much of my life has been being in the right place at the right time. I’m not sure I ever really consciously set a goal. Perhaps I should have. You know, I’d decide to take a class in screenplay writing (from Syd Fields) and then I’d write a couple of mediocre scripts, then I’d work on something and someone would show interest in it. So much of acting, writing, selling a script, getting my masters degree – it was all so pleasurable, with just the right amount of challenge.
SJF: Describe your dreams.
NLC: VIVID. I know you’re talking about BIG DREAMS, but I’m talking about nightly, very vivid, wild, entertaining dreams since I’ve begun directing The Geeze & Me. What subconscious?
SJF: Describe three pivotal events in your life.
NLC: My Father’s death. My Mother’s death. Marrying mi amour.
SJF: Role models- male and female?
NLC: Hmmm, well, I tend to be suspicious of role models, of idealizing an individual and projecting onto them all of my ideas about who they are. But you know who comes to mind? Béyoncé. I know. I’m a 68-yr. old white woman, but watch Drunk, In Love and tell me she’s not got it going on. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p1JPKLa-Ofc) It’s hard to do overt sexuality and not feel used at the end of the day. And she’s brave enough to go for it. Hillary Clinton. President Obama’s grace and elegance. Jon Stewart’s genius. Stephen Colbert’s limitless mind.
SJF: Where are your favorite La Jolla/San Diego places? Your favorite places for a vacation?
NLC: In La Jolla – George’s; A small Greek restaurant called Cafe Athena in Pacific Beach, La Valencia Hotel for breakfast, Come On In’s cornmeal pancakes. My ideal vacation: on a beach anywhere. Paris, like most everyone. Lisbon. London. Monemvasia, Greece. Two Bunch Palms in Desert Hot Springs. I’m not a Trump Tower person, and I like small, manageable, places that feel personal. It’s a feeling I get in a place. But Jerusalem would be good, too.
SJF: Any memorable live performance experiences (or other), and why?
NLC: Anthony Hopkins in Equus. Raw power. I was sitting in the front row and I was certain that Anthony Hopkins delivered his monologue to me. Which is how great actors make you feel…
I also saw a recent production of The Normal Heart at the Diversionary Theatre that about ripped mine out of my chest. I can’t remember being so deeply struck by anything like that in a long time. Really visceral. The play is about the A.I.D.S. crisis hitting in the 80s in San Francisco. My sister was a Chaplain at San Francisco General at that time, and I recall vividly our conversations about what they were seeing then. About all the men who were dying. She saw it firsthand. The production, directed by Kim Strassberger and Claudio Raygoza was superb.
Many thanks, Hedges and Nancy for giving us a peek into your lives! It’s been a pleasure interviewing you!
The Geeze & Me
What if there was a musical – simultaneously serious and hilarious, that explores the wild ride of life’s later years, addressing the good, the bad and the ugly of aging? The Geeze & Me is a musical production about the aging process, upsides and down. The World Premiere of The Geeze & Mewill be presented in San Diego, March 31 – April 29 at the Tenth Avenue Arts Center.
The Geeze & Me Production/Creative Team includes: Original Music/Lyrics by Hedges Capers and Book written by Hedges Capers and Nancy Locke Capers. Produced and Directed by Nancy Locke Capers. Musical Direction by Will (B.J.) Robinson, Choreography by Joanne Lovejoy, Sound & Video by Joe Huppert, Costume Design by Max Cadillac, Lighting Design by Cynthia Bloodgood,Script Consultant Dilip Jeste, M.D., and Danielle K. Glorioso, L.C.S.W., in consultation with UCSD Center for Healthy Aging at UCSD, PR/Media/Press by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications, Casting by Samuel Warren & Associates, , with Brendan Hill as Assistant Director and Beonica Bullard as Stage Manager.
THE GEEZE AND ME CAST: Devlin (Kay), Hedges Capers (David), Kent Brisby (Bob), Byron La Due (Howard), Gabriela Nelson (Sherry), Jesse MacKinnon (Dwight), Lorraine Devon Wilke (Helen), Lolly Boroff (Mrs. Dingler), Susan Benninghoff (Miranda), Kiera Mersky (Bobbi & Margo), Lauren Preski (Margret), Erin Vanderhyde (Homeless), Susie Singer Carter (Science & Ginger) and Scotty Billion (Undertaker).
The Geeze & Me is a funny, irreverent, and poignant show about surviving aging. This timely show features a comedic troupe of eccentric players who team up to wrangle aspects of aging from an expert. An eclectic blend of songs ranging from pop to blues to corner street doo-wop, accompanied by electric choreography and state of the art projections. The perils and benefits of growing older are reflected in the concerns of this diverse
What audience patrons of The Geeze & Me staged readings are saying:
“So life-affirming. Even just seeing a reading was fantastic. Look forward to seeing it mounted!”
“…the story, writing, and music are stunning.”
“…intimate dialectic you achieved between characters/story/music is amazing. So well done! Really smart.”
“…your inclusion of socio-scientific-political realities re: aging and society are never forced, always brief, and work. This is very hard to do. But you did it.”
“I’m in awe of the music/lyrics…”
Methusalah said, “It’s the best musical I’ve seen in 800 years!”
SCHEDULE: Previews/Pay what you can with a casttalkback following the preview performances March 29 & 30th. Performances: March 31 – April 29, Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 2:00 p.m.
LOCATION:The Tenth Avenue Arts Center, 930 10th Ave, San Diego 92101
For press info, interviews, photos or press comps, please contact: Susan J. Farese,
