Orlando Weekly - Latest Comments

Re: 11 insane things we’d like to do at Disney after dark

naked guy — Mon, 20 May 2013 20:01:04 -0000

Minnie's Country House no longer exists. It was a casualty of New Fantasyland.

Me, I would personally love to run around naked on Tom Sawyer Island with Pocahontas.

Re: Pencil to Pixel: Designing for CMS - Orange County Regional History Center - Orlando Weekly

complete website package — Mon, 20 May 2013 18:43:16 -0000

It's really nice post. Happy Cog's Allison Wagner and Yesenia Perez-Cruz lecture on designing CMS-driven websites

Re: Fringe Review: The Crack Rock Opera

Rob Del Medico — Mon, 20 May 2013 16:24:29 -0000

"I'm all for antics and getting noticed, but to get into my personal business and eat my food while promoting their show.. fucking disgusting. I'm not butt hurt at it, BECAUSE IT'S THE FRINGE... and that sort of shit happens."

'Because it's the Fringe' is a piss-poor rationale for anything. Yes, the Fringe is known for being over-the-top and having creative marketing, but in most all cases, is done with respect for the consumer. The example you describe above would be considered invasive by most, and your comments are incongruous in that you express disgust a mere sentence before trying to play it off like you didn't care. Likewise, being obnoxious and making a lot of noise (and in my example, actually interrupting a live performance with sound bleed) tends to put people off of seeing your show. Generally, any kind of 'audio' related promotion for a show should only occur OUTSIDE...and even then, only if you have an indication that it is wanted by the captive audience (it is not that difficult to tell these things, speaking as someone who has been in many Fringe shows).

"A synopsis is a brief or condensed statement giving a general view of some subject or performance"

A 'general view'? Your command of the English language is middling at best. A synopsis includes many plot points. It is 'condensed' in that it doesn't reveal the entire story, but if you've ever read a movie review, they do divulge events that are not present in the trailer. And, as Mr. Kubersky has already stated, these are things that were in the show's program, which kind of makes them fair game.

"Not the Orlando Weekly whose whole thing is to SUPPORT local music, local theater and local events"

No, it is not. Their aim is to COVER local music, local theatre, and local events, not give out charity reviews to them or withhold negative comments.

"Seth shouldn't have went into the production with an already annoyed view on things,"

To be fair, it was probably assigned to him. Besides, you're delusional if you think he was the only one that hated the show last year.

"How is a bull horn more annoying then the rest?"

Because it is obnoxious and intrusive. I've been in 5 Fringe shows, two of which sold out a combined 10 performances, and I never did any form of advertising that obnoxious to do it. We didn't have to. It's unnecessary. Martin Dockery, Logan Donahoo, Key of E have all had popular shows this year, and none of them have taken to obnoxious antics to sell their show. They've used traditional methods of advertising, such as handing out cards to those in line, promoting online, and talking the show up. Not irritating those waiting in line. You're correct in that Crack Rock Opera is far from the only show to use obnoxious means of promotion. But I criticize the others that do it too.

"Not a cast member Buddy, but someone who has enjoyed many productions other than theirs and was completely shocked at this review and a couple others. "

I haven't agreed with every review, either. In some cases, I have even replied (and explained why I disagreed). Discussion is fine. You, on the other hand, have barged in wildly accusing a critic of bias and a host of other unfounded things in a largely incoherent email, using an obvious pseudonym. That is, in a word, pathetic.

Seth gave ME a bad review once, and you don't see me criticizing him, because I took it like a man. And if the Crack Rock folks are professionals...they will too. And don't need you 'standing up for them' to a 'bad review' which actually managed to mention that they had improved from their last showing.

Re: Fringe Review: The Crack Rock Opera

Seth Kubersky — Mon, 20 May 2013 14:23:48 -0000

I have a general policy against responding to comments on my reviews, but I make an exception when factual accuracy is in question. So, for the record:
1) Nearly everything revealed in my 3 sentence synopsis of the Crack Rock Opera's plot is actually printed in the program viewers are handed upon entering, which includes backstories on every character and an outline of the story. Much of this material is also repeated in the opening narration.
2) This show is a prequel to the previously performed version, and starts by explicitly saying it's the story of how the previous show's lead was born. So to call that info a huge spoiler is like saying Luke & Leia's birth in Revenge of the Sith was a huge plot twist.
3) The reviewer's responsibility is to communicate enough of the show's story and style so that the reader can decide if it's something they might enjoy. If you think a 100-word summary singlehandedly "makes taking the time to see it almost moot" then you must have thought even less of it than I did.
4) Patrons of the Fringe are requested to refrain from using electronic devices during shows, but an exception is made for staff members and working press. If you have a problem with that policy, you should address your concerns to the Festival producer.
5) I have never used my iPad to record unauthorized audio or video of any Fringe show, which is against policy.
6) The most important thing to most Fringe artists is getting press for their show as early in the Festival as possible. In the "old" days we we only able to review a dozen or so shows, and it would take until the middle of the week for them to see print. Now with the iPad, I can take notes during the show and have reviews published online hours or even minutes after the performance, which many artists and patrons have told me they appreciate. Without the iPad I would never have been able to review nearly 25 shows by the end of opening weekend.
6) I keep my iPad's sound off and screen brightness at minimum, and always sit on the aisle in a rear row to minimize distraction to other audience members. I even turn it off during blackouts to hide the glow, and I've only ever had one person ask me to turn it off. Trust me, it's much less distracting than the tiny flashlight I used to have to use to take notes by hand.
7) There were only about a dozen other people in Crack Rock Opera when I saw it, and I sat at the opposite end of the row from most of them with no one else sitting within several seats of me.
8) I'm not old, I'm 37! (Actually 38, but who's counting?) If you meet someone of any age who can watch a play every 8 hours (on average) for 8 consecutive days, and write 300+ word reviews of each, without needing to take any notes, I want to rent their brain.
9) The Orlando Weekly's "whole thing" is NOT to "SUPPORT" any particular artist with unearned praise. Our job is to contribute to the cultural community through uncompromised critiques that serve the best interests of our readers.
10) Promoting your show by being obnoxious is fair game around Fringe (though it usually backfires). But if your obnoxiousness bleeds in through the theater walls and disturbs paying patrons inside a show, you've crossed the line.

Now if you'll excuse me, I have more reviews to write.

Re: Open-Mic Night with Matt & CJ - Sleeping Moon Cafe - Orlando Weekly

Rhyknowscerious — Mon, 20 May 2013 13:23:09 -0000

What time?

Re: Fringe Review: The Crack Rock Opera

Steve Schneider — Mon, 20 May 2013 13:05:40 -0000

Maybe he was just taking notes? Since you were seated right next to him, it seems you would have been able to tell -- or at least ask politely if it really bothered you.

Re: Fringe Review: The Crack Rock Opera

Lita Longnips — Mon, 20 May 2013 12:35:26 -0000

maybe his mind is going with age, and he needs a "keepsake" to help him remember details. The whole point is that using phones or iPads during productions is prohibited... am I wrong?

Re: Fringe Review: The Crack Rock Opera

Steve Schneider — Mon, 20 May 2013 12:21:16 -0000

An honest question here: If you feel the critic has nursed such a longstanding grudge against this show that he did everything in his power to spoil it for Orlando, why would you assume he was using his iPad to record it as a personal keepsake?

Re: Fringe Review: The Crack Rock Opera

Lita Longnips — Mon, 20 May 2013 11:30:43 -0000

Weird Mr. Del Medico that you would bring up the annoying antics of someone at the Fringe... Last night, while I was sitting enjoying my beer and eating a handful of fries, I had a drag queen come up to me... Sit on my lap... eat my fries... and start kissing my forehead to promote their show. I'm all for antics and getting noticed, but to get into my personal business and eat my food while promoting their show.. fucking disgusting. I'm not butt hurt at it, BECAUSE IT'S THE FRINGE... and that sort of shit happens.

Also My Dearest Medico; A synopsis is a brief or condensed statement giving a general view of some subject or performance... On the other hand a spoiler.. is completely different.

A spoiler, by the way if your not familiar, is when someone takes your play, movie, or whatever and states your material.. the main plotline for the play... the order in which EVERYTHING takes place....THAT my friend is what we in the world call a spoiler. By the way the reviews and synopsis's your talking about that rip productions apart and reveal EVERYTHING, comes from THE NEW YORK TIMES... Not the Orlando Weekly whose whole thing is to SUPPORT local music, local theater and local events... not have jaded and biased views. Seth shouldn't have went into the production with an already annoyed view on things, and maybe he should have just said.. "Fuck it... I'm not doing this." Because thats the look he had on his face when he walked in.

Going back to what I was saying earlier; If you've been to the Fringe and know the people who go their, probably like yourself, you know that everyone uses annoying THEATRICS and ANTICS to promote their shows; drag queens running around slapping people on their asses, throwing flyers in your food while your eating, someone rolling around on the ground screaming their showtime, half naked women in heels, etc. How is a bull horn more annoying then the rest?

As the saying goes... "Opinions are like assholes... Everyone has one.."

ALSO, Fringe policy is that NO ONE is to use or have on Phones, or IPads during productions... While someone with a certain complex is using his Ipad the whole damn time to record, or whatever he was doing; also, unauthorized recording of productions without the knowledge of the actors or managers is not prohibited. I was sitting next to him and was distracted by the light coming from out of his lap. Not a cast member Buddy, but someone who has enjoyed many productions other than theirs and was completely shocked at this review and a couple others. I am not singling any one production out, but the plays he enjoys he leaves much to the imagination, but those he does not he rips them apart and gives a play by play of events so you wouldn't see it. Welcome to 2013? Hahaha.. your cute.

Re: Fringe Review: The Crack Rock Opera

Rob Del Medico — Mon, 20 May 2013 09:49:50 -0000

Lita Longnips eh? Kind of a shitty sockpuppet name, but whatever, I'll take the bait.

"I think that it is also ''infringing", no pun intended, on the production to give a play by play of the events that take place."

This is what's known as a 'synopsis'. IE, something found in every review ever. Glad you could join us in 2013.

"Is it the policy of the Orlando Weekly to give reviews that not only bash local musicians and actors but also gives a review so revealing that it makes taking the time to see it almost moot?"

Interesting that you see a review that actually claims the troupe improved from last year "bashing". It's almost as if you feel like they're owed gratitude simply because they showed up on stage.

"I understand that it is merely an opinion, but to go as far as writing about the JOKES and PUNS... Keep that kind of stuff to yourself."

The butthurtedness is strong with this one. also lol at drawing a line in the sand at critiquing jokes and puns. Had no idea those were sacred cows.

" I mean seriously, that is about as disrespectful then being on your phone... or in this case your IPAD the whole damn time."

Or maybe..JUST MAYBE...Seth has seen quality Fringe productions, even local ones, and is disappointed that this one isn't up to that standard? But by all means, keep your delusions of persecution going, they're entertaining.

"It just boggles me that you went into seeing this performance with a bad taste in your mouth because of a previous performance you saw; it makes your review biased and unfit to be accurately read."

Lol. This is what's known as a 'reputation', dimwit. It's why people rush to buy tickets to Martin Dockery's show as soon as they hear about it, because they know what a quality job he's done in past years. Likewise, why people are going to be more hesistant to buy tickets for shows put on by groups that have faltered in years past. It's also known as 'context', as in pretty much every review ever, the writer will generally outline the Production company's history, so theatregoers can be reminded of their past work. Again...welcome to 2013. Also what does "unfit to be accurately read" mean? Did you even go to high school?

"These musicians and actors have taken a risk, and for that I applaud them. I applaud them for making such an impact on you, even though you claim it to be negative, for you to take the time to try and convince a mindless group of people who read your columns and reviews to disreguard such a unique gem as this is."

Suggesting they have 'taken a risk' means that the musicians knew they could 'fail' or be 'criticized' in the press. Hence the word 'risk'. If all they wanted was a gold star for showing up, then they should have performed the show in their damn garage for their girlfriends.

Butthurt posts like yours are funny because they only hurt, they never help. Instead of wondering why this show isn't getting more respect, buy thee a ticket to a Chase Padgett show or a Martin Dockery show and see what 'polish' and professionalism is. Nobody owes "you" anything (assuming that this sockpuppet is actually a cast member).

Re: Fringe Review: The Crack Rock Opera

Rob Del Medico — Mon, 20 May 2013 09:43:30 -0000

It would be nice if these actors didn't obnoxiously make a lot of noise (with a megaphone, among other things) when pimping their show to people waiting in lines for other shows. Last year, they didn't even have a show at Fringe, but were advertising their show that was upcoming at Theatre Downtown, and one of them played guitar loudly through a portable amp...right outside Blue venue, during a show. And didn't stop until a volunteer told them they had to because a show was going on.

Last night, I saw them outside Green venue. Good thing Skill Focus hadn't started yet, but one of them was making loud noises w/ a bullhorn. You can pimp your show without being obnoxious. Or at least if you're going to give a 'preview' of your show, make sure you're outside when you're doing it (and that the captive audience actually wants to hear it).

Re: Fringe Review: Dark Fantastic

Rob Del Medico — Mon, 20 May 2013 08:54:39 -0000

Agreed - kind of like being in Hunter S. Thompson territory at times. In 60 minutes, he didn't fumble or even stumble over any of the text, recited in perfect cadence. My body went limp during this - it was soothing and vivid and even despite the horrifying picture he was painting in the first sequence, my body felt strangely at ease. I loved that incongruity. My favorite piece thus far.

Re: Fringe Review: Piranha the Musical!

Michael Denner — Mon, 20 May 2013 01:06:55 -0000

I must respectfully disagree. I thought this was a colossal waste of talent. 20-30 of some of Orlando's finest actors on stage, reciting this wince-inducing script (which consisted of mostly in-jokes and mugging) just made me sad for them.
The in-jokes weren't even funny. At the 30-minute point, I wanted my money back. Lots of talent with only tedium to perform.

Re: Fringe Review: Brothers of Affliction

Nia Smith — Sun, 19 May 2013 22:05:21 -0000

Brother's of Afliction was an amazing play I saw it three times already and I look forward to seeing it again! It is a must see! Everytime I see it I catch more than the first time.

Re: Fringe Review: Brothers of Affliction

nell — Sun, 19 May 2013 21:25:20 -0000

One of the best plays ive seen in a long while. Much needed. It was honest and non sterotypical black theater. Thanks 3 hill.

Re: Pencil to Pixel: Designing for CMS - Orange County Regional History Center - Orlando Weekly

justplugitin — Sun, 19 May 2013 17:35:57 -0000

Really great post. Pencil to Pixel: Designing for CMS

Re: This Little Underground

Christopher Taylor — Sun, 19 May 2013 09:34:26 -0000

I've never heard of the flashlights before but I likem, good shit!

Re: Soapboxer

David Falstad — Sat, 18 May 2013 22:53:57 -0000

I'm glad his father went home to die. It would have cost a fortune to have him die here. This is a cute story, but the relevant question is what is in the best interests of our country. It is not in the best interest of our country to enact ANOTHER illegal alien legalization, which will signal to the whole planet that we have lost the will to enforce our laws. The American people and their descendants are "people our laws impact" and refusal to control immigration will very negatively impact them.

No, it is not Da Silva's fault that his father the criminal lied his way into our country. But that does not give him a claim to being an American. He never was an American, and our first duty is to Americans. If he attended public schools like most students, then his parents stole many thousands of dollars in the form of attendance at public schools. Such theft harms communities and must not be rewarded and encouraged. He has had a good run by virtue of his parents' crimes, now it is time for him to go.

Re: Fringe Review: The Crack Rock Opera

Lita — Sat, 18 May 2013 22:25:24 -0000

You should see it.

Re: Orlandoweekly.com - COLUMNS: La Dolce Manes

dogtag — Sat, 18 May 2013 20:19:47 -0000

Love

Re: Fringe Review: Be a Man

Susan Patrick — Sat, 18 May 2013 19:40:53 -0000

Heartbreaking and hilarious.

Re: Fringe Review: Be a Man

simon hawkley — Sat, 18 May 2013 19:38:09 -0000

Nevertheless, a good reviewer doesn't use similes and vauge comparisons. After hearing the buzz for this show, it most definitely seems like you had a preconceived disposition against them.

Re: Fringe Review: The Crack Rock Opera

Steve Schneider — Sat, 18 May 2013 15:17:53 -0000

The Aristocrats!

Re: Fringe Review: The Crack Rock Opera

Lita Longnips — Sat, 18 May 2013 15:10:43 -0000

I think that this is an unfair portrayal of a production that has expanded and taken flight with that last 3 productions. I think that it is also ''infringing", no pun intended, on the production to give a play by play of the events that take place. Is it the policy of the Orlando Weekly to give reviews that not only bash local musicians and actors but also gives a review so revealing that it makes taking the time to see it almost moot? I understand that it is merely an opinion, but to go as far as writing about the JOKES and PUNS... Keep that kind of stuff to yourself. I mean seriously, that is about as disrespectful then being on your phone... or in this case your IPAD the whole damn time. Yes, sir. I was at the Fringe last night to witness the opening performance. I was there for the jokes, puns, gasps, and laughs. It just boggles me that you went into seeing this performance with a bad taste in your mouth because of a previous performance you saw; it makes your review biased and unfit to be accurately read. These musicians and actors have taken a risk, and for that I applaud them. I applaud them for making such an impact on you, even though you claim it to be negative, for you to take the time to try and convince a mindless group of people who read your columns and reviews to disreguard such a unique gem as this is. This is something out of the ordinary and not for the faint of heart... or someone who is jaded by a previous performance from almost 2.5-3 years ago. See it! this play WILL make an impact on you... depending on who you are.. you'll either love it... or have to seek counceling afterwards.

Re: Fringe Review: Burnt at the Steak

Steve Schneider — Sat, 18 May 2013 13:36:07 -0000

To all who have commented:

Please be assured that "dipshit" was not a word I used capriciously. For what may be the only time in my reviewing career, I came away from a show straining to comprehend how the performer could actually be a good and decent person after what she had done on that stage.

In my review, I could have gone into greater detail about everything that made this such an unremittingly ugly and stupid piece of so-called theater. I could have mentioned the rank ethnic caricatures. Or the enforced audience participation, including the attempted shaming of an overweight patron -- thwarted only when Ms. Valentino could not find anyone in her paltry opening-night audience who met her weight requirements, and so had to settle for grinding on an average-sized fellow while impersonating an obese black
woman who likes 'em big. I could have decried the contempt she showed for her audience by coming out and "disabusing" our backward little selves of the shallow misconceptions we surely must harbor about her own demographic group -- only to then spend the rest of her show perpetuating even shallower stereotypes of groups to which she herself does not happen to belong. I could have pointed out the offensiveness of the show's central tenet, which is that this willfully inobservant, self-enamored mean girl deserves some sort of medal for having been forced to share a bit of oxygen with such supposed lowlifes while pulling down over $200,000 per year, because the experience sometimes threatened to prevent her from going on auditions that would enable her to Follow Her Bliss.

Instead of saying all of this, I elected to describe as best I could the supremely uncomfortable sensation of being in the front row while that parade of ill will and dunerheadedness played out in front of you. Suffice it to say that I know a survivor of actual, real-life abuse who also saw the show, and who thinks I was TOO KIND.

So "dipshit"? No, I don’t regret using the word, or any of the others I employed. Not in the least.