BACH TO THE FUTURE
There are those of us who find “new” music or “new” productions of old classics about as enjoyable as a sigalert on the 405. However, if the aim of these endeavors is to provoke dialogue and discussion, then Los Angeles Opera’s production of “Bach’s Mass in B Minor” accomplished just that.
The Dorothy Chandler Pavilion was packed on a splendid Saturday afternoon for the opening “night” performance. It certainly wasn’t your average presentation. The chorus and soloists were placed in the pit along with the orchestra as a peculiar psychodrama unfolded on stage.
Instead of the music, one’s attention was focused on the set, consisting of an enormous schematic head painted on scrim. Behind it, a parade of slow-moving players lumbered around like zombies from Michael Jackson’s “Killer” video. There were bursts of color and movement and when it was over, the production received a standing ovation-or at least a partial one, peppered with a few pouts and audible boos.
The merits were discussed for the remainder of the day and into the evening everywhere, from the women’s bathroom to the post-performance cocktail party taking place in the Palisades. Some operagoers glowed, while others used terms too descriptive to repeat in this column. But a few, like local mom Lisa Locker, took it all in stride, saying, “It was interesting and you don’t get to see things like that everyday.” As for me, I’m with Lisa-take a stand, make a statement and dare to be neutral.
BLAST TO THE PAST
There was a much more familiar music scene over at Granita where Geri Shadrow was throwing a 50th birthday bash for her disco lovin’ hubby. Sandy Shadrow was quite the vision, looking ghetto-fabulous in rhinestone shades, open shirt, oversized medallions and leather jeans. Who was his inspiration on this night of nights? “A little Jim Morrison, a little Elton John,” he said, waving to incoming guests. “But really, it’s all me.”
Wife Geri came clad in a black fringe mini-dress, floppy plaid hat, black socks and ankle boots. Her look was a little of this, a little of that. “I don’t know,” she sighed. “I’m just too old. I can’t be J. Lo. In my case, it’s more like Gray Lo. Maybe I’m Madonna or Christina Irregulara.”
In lieu of gifts, the kind-hearted couple asked for donations for the New York Firefighters Disaster Relief Fund.
As for decor, the tables were covered with sweet treats from days gone by-Pez, Chuckles, Oh Henry!, Juju Fruits and Jujubes, in addition to chef Jennifer Naylor’s sumptuous spread, which included a seafood and pasta buffet, chocolate truffle cake and crme brulee.
After a few apple martinis, you’d swear you were at the Grammys. I imagined Tina Turner in one corner, Garth Brooks in another. Sonny was reunited with Cher and you could easily pick out multiple material girls.
On my way out I was queried by a pink wig-wearing wonder. “I’m one of the Spice Girls,” she proclaimed. “Can you guess which one? Old Spice. Ha Ha Ha!”
They say the journey toward seniordom is not for sissies, so I suppose there’s nothing like a little humor and style to keep you nifty at fifty. Happy Birthday Sandy! You go dude!
IN THE MOOD?
Looking for love this Valentine’s Day? Maybe local matchmaker Rich Fox can help you find that certain someone. (See accompanying article “Ex and the City” in the local news section.) His next party takes place at the Gray Whale on Feb. 22. 353.4778.