Jubilee!: The Last Revue in North America/A catalog of links

Hey kids!


I'm sorry that I've taken so long to write about the reunion, but most of you who are on this blog were there and have been inundated with photos since then.  I hope you all had as much fun as I did!  It was worth it on all counts to see all of your beautiful smiles once again!


This month, I'm posting links/news clips that I've been collecting from fellow Jubilee! Alumni so that we can have the majority of them in one place. I'm mostly focusing on the 30th year celebration, because there are so many other clips out there on YouTube.  I'm sure I may have missed some, so please feel free to email me the link either on here in the comments section or on FB or cynthia@dancersdumonde.com. 


Again, THANK YOU all so much for the constant communication, patience during the constant change of logistics and just making the effort to get together!!

Jubilee! 30th Anniversary

www.youtube.com

Jubilee! has proved itself a Las Vegas Strip staple, solidifying its reputation as a classic Vegas icon over the past 30 years. Before the crowd was bedazzle...

Vegas Showgirl Trivia: So, That's What It's Called!

lasvegasblog.harrahs.com

We're not kidding when we say we've always wondered about this particular showgirl trivia. Whenever you see showgirls, they seem to be doing this thing with their legs...

'Jubilee!' 30th Anniversary

www.lasvegassun.com

John Katsilometes reports on 30 years of 'Jubilee!' for KSNV-TV. - 2011-07-29 15:29:00

'Jubilee!' poised to celebrate 30th anniversary

www.lvrj.com

When "Jubilee!" opened in 1981 at the original MGM (now Bally's), it was but one more Strip production with showgirls.

Audio slide show: A Blitz of Glitz

www.latimes.com

‎

Photos: A sneak peek at Denise Truscello’s 'Jubilee!' 30th anniversary exhibit

www.lasvegassun.com

Guests at the 30th anniversary celebrations of Jubilee! at Bally’s and the Paris tomorrow night will be bowled over by a stunning photography ...

Wall Photos

JUBILEE! Past & Present Pool Party!

Celebrate the 30th Anniversary and the Good T...See More 

By: Shannon M. Hardin


My photos from the pre-anniversary show:  July 28 & 29th, 2011   Bally's Casino,  Shannon & Alex's House (you may have to copy and paste link into your browser) :
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150247735118590.322649.586678589

Same as it ever was: 'Jubilee!' remains a titanic ode to Las Vegas entertainment www.lasvegassun.com When it opened in August 1981 at the old MGM Grand, there was nothing else like it. Thirty years on, still, there is nothing else like it. “Jubilee!” is Las Vegas’ own treasure chest filled with sequins, crystals and finely feathered costumes.   ↓ Vegas Showgirls Uncovered at lasvegasblog.harrahs.com That saucy headline might make you think this is a case of over promising and under delivering, but you'd be wrong! At Jubilee!, the glitzy show at Bally's lasvegasblog.harrahs.com lasvegasblog.harrahs.com Jubilee! at Bally's recently celebrated its 17,000 performance! Of course, we have exclusive photos from the big event.  ↓ ↑

 

BRA

30 Years of "Jubilee! Love"

vimeo.com

‎30th Anniversary video created by the current cast of Jubilee! Featuring photos and clips from the past and present. This was to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of Jubilee! for the 30th Anniversary show on July 30, 2011. Created & Filmed by: Julie Taber Annie..
.***This was my personal favorite because it was done by the CAST for the CAST/CREW/ALUMNI     BRAVO KIDS!!!!

Donn Arden's Jubilee - Bally Las Vegas

www.youtube.com

Donn Arden's Jubilee - Bally Las Vegas

Go Behind The Rhinestones - Jubilee 30th Anniversary Dancer Interview with Wendy

www.youtube.com

We went behind the scenes at Jubilee!, the classic Vegas showgirl spectacular at Bally's Las Vegas, to interview Wendy, one of the gorgeous ladies who grace ...

WHO?!?!  Adding this performer, Matt Gross, to the finale was sacrilege (that was the consensus from the alumni when we heard and apparently from the current cast as well.  Where was Liza Minnelli when we needed her?)

Matt Goss "Lovely Las Vegas" Performance. Live At Jubilee's 30th Anniversary

www.youtube.com

Matt Goss performed the finale song at the 30yr anniversary show of "Jubilee" in Las Vegas on the 30th July 2011. Watch this fantastic performance and enjoy!

LasVegasSun.com Photo - Jubilee! 30th Anniversary Pink Carpet and Show

The 30th anniversary performance of Jubilee! at Bally's Las Vegas on July 30, 2011.

What is a Las Vegas Showgirl? « Las Vegas Performing Arts

lasvegasperformingarts.wordpress.com

“Showgirl” is defined on several websites as “A woman, typically attired in an elaborately decorated costume, who performs in a musical or theatrical production.”

Happy Birthday, Jubilee: The Las Vegas showgirl spectacular turns 30

Hear an interview with Diane Palm on KNPR:

KNPR's State of Nevada

http://knpr.org/son/archive/detail2.cfm?...

 

 

Onstage oddities, and how the MGM fire led to a worldwide crystal shortage, from 'Jubilee!'

www.lasvegassun.com

‎"Jubilee!" celebrated its 30th anniversary Saturday at Bally's, and the production reminded of its unique place in Las Vegas history.

**NOT ALL REVIEWS WERE POSITIVE:

Mike Weatherford, Las Vegas Review Journal, made a few enemies with this commentary: 

http://www.lvrj.com/living/-jubilee-one-of-a-kind-126476248.html


Showgirl/Vegas Revue History:  Another Showgirl Documentary/Movie has been floating around Facebook.  When they aren't talking about history, they have a lot of Folies Bergere footage.   I didn't know that Barbara Walters had such a strong link to Vegas!  Alumni Andrea Avruskin will keep us posted when/where we can catch the full version.  If you've seen it (FoBerg cast please speak up!) and have any info, please feel free to let us know!   I find the title a bit depressing...

The Last Showgirl - Extended Trailer

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZUHbPJSy63E&feature=share

Showcasing an era gone by, The Last Showgirl explores five decades of the famous Les Folies Bergere in Las Vegas. Originally brought from France in 1959 by L...

All in all, I think it's great how much press covered the main event and mostly, the show itself.  As it's the last show of it's kind in North America, it's vital that we keep it alive and remind people that it's still there.  We can all do our part to ensure that it'll be here for future generations of Blue Bells and Kelly Boys!

My love to you all,  C

Finally! It's Jubilee, Jubilee, Jubilee time!!!!

Kids, 
Breathe.  I started this thought in January (probably started bugging you all in Feb), and just in the last few hours has it started coming full circle thanks to our special angels and all of your patience!
I'm truly sorry for the back and forth but again, all that matters is that it's finally happening!

Shannon & Arty (&Stephen?) have 24 tickets and all of you have been notified that you are on the list. Problem is, not all of you have responded!  If you do not respond by Thursday, Shannon & I have a waiting list and the next person on there will get your ticket.  Sorry to do that, but they are in high demand and we'd hate to have an empty seat.  Again, I know with all the flip flopping you may have said YES & NO several times, ugh!

TICKET LIST:  THURSDAY, JULY 28th, 7.30  !!PLEASE BRING $15 CASH/TICKET!!

Cindy (2)

Jerri (2)

Kimberly (1)

Angelia (1)

Teena Marshall (2)

Jen Bush De Witt (2)

Jill Kello (1)

Eileen (2)  

Dawn Draper (1)  Has to work; will arrive @7.30. Let's keep an eye out for her!

Holly (1)

Robin (1)

Rebecca (1)

Melissa Strong (1)

Lisa Gallion (2) She's hopefully bringing Anthony's daughter, yeah! 

Belinda S (1) 

Stacey B (1)

Michelle (1?)  No confirmation yet

**Belinda Schober has heard that Fluff & Diane would like to meet us afterwards, so please don't  run off!  It seems best if our spouses/guests wait in the casino if we go backstage, unless Randy can work it out for all of us. 

FRIDAY, JULY 29  4PM  FAMILY DAY/POT LUCK/CAST DAY OFF
Shannon & Alex have opened their new house to all of us, so please reciprocate and BYOB AND/OR A DISH.  A quote from Shannon & Alex: " Pot Luck, Grill available, BYOB. I have some booze. Need Soda & Mixers . Bring your kids & family & a swim suit! House Phone 702-633-6678. See you Friday!"

Address:
9348 Desert Heat Ave    (I LOVE that street name!)
Las Vegas 89178
702-633-6678 house
Mountains Edge
Cross Streets: Blue Diamond & El Capitan

Shannon's cell phone:  702-340-3851
Mine:  617-957-5788


SATURDAY, JULY 30th: 
I have nothing to do with the show tix or official after party,  but current cast memeber Stephen M., has told us that: "Some of us are going to Bootleggers after the show Saturday, around 11:30, we will swing by the corporate event 1st for a bit."  So, like most people, you can't get into the show on Saturday, you can meet up with the current cast at Bootleggers.  I'll be leaving on Saturday am, so I'll miss it.

SUNDAY, JULY 31st:
Start of the Siegfried & Roy reunion

In the days leading up to this, until today, I wasn't even sure I was going to be able to make it (my mom's been in the hospital and then what to do with Johan), so I'm just glad I'll get to see you all!

Even though it's been crazy back and forth, each and everyone of you that I've talked to have been positively supportive and grateful that SOMETHING is happening.  None of you have ever left my heart and so it's been worth every minute of it!

We owe Shannon, Alex, Arty & whoever those other singers were a drink--and it'll be Anthony's first day back at work, let's let him hear us rock the house!

Until we see each other, everyone travel to Vegas safely!  Take care everyone!

July: Jubilee! Reunion Tix Change PLZ TAKE POLL

Hi folks!
There's been a CHANGE in the ticket situation!  PLEASE read if you've ordered them via me:

I've tried, but we CANNOT get the $15 tickets (that's a long story and I don't want to go there, so I'll keep it short & simple).  Since we are a larger group (20+) we can't get the $15 discount. 

***We can MAYBE get tickets for $35, but we can't sit together, and we will be on the sides***

Honestly, I went with 10 of you last year and we had a great time and seeing the show was great. I can easily sit this one out.  I realize some of you haven't seen it for a while, and I think you should still go. 
The house manager will call me on Friday to see what he came up with. 

******PLEASE TAKE THE POLL ON THE SIDE OF THE BLOG, TO THE RIGHT, OR I WILL CANCEL YOUR TICKET SO YOU DON'T HAVE TO PAY THE HIGHER PRICE******

Already, Angelia said she's not going to pay it and will gladly hold down the fort for those of you that go.  As I said, I saw it last year, I'm fine with just socializing as well.  I'm beyond sorry that this is becoming difficult (I'm hoping for a miracle or someone taking pity on us, helping us out & being so appreciative that we are making an effort to support the cause)
PLEASE COMPLETE POLL ON RIGHT, THANK YOU! 

July 2011: Reunion Count Down

Hey kids!

It would seem that I'm on a month to month blog schedule whether I/we like it or not.  I just can't seem to bring myself to write any BS or else there's too much to write.


Jubilee! Turns 30 Update: Alex Oteyza and Shannon M. Hardin have agreed to have the play date/day off get together at their new place (FRIDAY July 29th) Let's send out a big HURRAY to them!  I've not nailed down any details but I think it's only fair that we all bring one dish & drink if we attend.  We are still on the fence whether we bring Johan (our 3.75 year old) or not.  It would be nice to hear from all of you if you plan to bring your kids or not.  Not only for me, but mostly for our hosts, Alex & Shannon!  I will also send an event invite on FB, just so they know what to expect. 

I'm getting quite a list of folks who are wanting to go to the show and that's exciting!  Unfortunately, I can' t seem to get a hold of anyone at Bally's who will help me!  Paula (current principal) gave me the number of a person who can help us, so I hope that will work.  It used to be that Randy (backstage) could help us, but that's all changed (quelle surprise).  Importantly, I know we can still get our $15/alumni price, so that's the good news!

The first show is at 7.30pm, which means we need to meet at least by 7 to all get our tickets.  I'm suggesting  6 pm if we'd like to do a pre-show drink/happy hour.  I know that some people can't/won't make the show so this gives them a chance to have some time to see folks.  

MEETING PLACE in BALLY'S:  Kimberly, Angelia & I (& my hubby, Reinhard) will meet you all at the TEQUILA BAR & GRILL
TIME:   6pm

PLEASE have your $15 in CASH ready for either myself or whoever it is that's helping us!  

I'm guessing, we may have to go to the showroom earlier if we all want to sit together (so far, about 20 of us!).  I also want to do some photos outside the showroom, so try to be there on time!   

Here's the list of the July 28th 1st show goers:

Kimberly Shelton
Angelia (Maxwell) Zausch
Myself
Reinhard Beschel
Belinda Schober
Melissa Hansen
Dawn Draper
Carol Suarez
Jill Kello
Amber GeBauer
Teena Marshall
Eileen Ryans x 2
Shannon Fields
Lisa Gallion x 2
Rebecca LaBonne
Holly Dexter
Robin T.

PLEASE LET OTHERS KNOW!  ALL WELCOME!  

We will be in Canada from July 10-20th, but can be reached on my cell:  617 957 5788 and I will check my email daily.  

Reinhard & I will be staying at the DESERT ROSE RESORT,

5051 Duke Ellington Way, Las Vegas, NV 89119 (directly south of MGM Grand--I'd like to do a post show party in our room for all those who'd like to. If you can contribute a bottle of bubbly or vino or poison of choice, that would help tremendously!) 

See you all in Vegas!!! 

Jumpin' into June!

Hey Kids,

This month is so crazy and exciting that I can hardly stand it! 

Jubilee! Alum & my dear friend, Hillary Elliott is daringly baring it once again for charity in a show of over 200 of NY's most talented and sexy dancers on stage for a spectacular show that raises money for BroadwayCares/EquityFightsAIDS, one of the nation's leading AIDS foundations. It's a chance in the NYC performing arts community to give back and make a difference. If you can, please sponsor Hillary and visit her donation page and help others: http://www.broadwaycares.org/hillaryelliott. Donations are tax-deductible. YOU GO GIRL!


A HUGE Congratulations to the LIDO & it's 5,000 shows of BONHEUR!  
I remember watching the rehearsals for the show, and it doesn't seem like it was that long ago! You all looked like you had a well deserved celebration!  Cheers tout le monde! 

Eric, of the Lido Press, also posted a great video about the LIDO and you can see some clips of the show I did, C'est Magique, plus many others.  It's in English and well done! 

Cabaret Show Paris Lido 50 Years - Lido 50 ans - Historical overview ladies of Burlesque

www.youtube.com

Short clips and historical overview of the famous Paris Lido Cabaret Shows. Diner-Revue Shows. Diner-shows. Gay Paris. Paris Lido Burlesque

 

VEGAS AIDS CHARITY: Golden Rainbow Barry Manilow Theatre at Paris Las Vegas on Sunday, June 26 at 1pm.  Jubilee! Alum, Shannon Hardin created a number just for alumni, I can't wait to see photos!  MERDE everyone!

 

HEAVEN & EARTH:  UK Tour Ireland & Wales:  I leave the 15th of June and meet up with the rest of the musicians/dancers somehow (I'm still working on the details between Belfast & the small city we will first perform).  This is my first time to Ireland & Wales and it's my second "tour" in Europe.  Completely different that touring with the LIDO, but no less interesting or exciting.  I think it's more challenging in that we will be moving around the entire time and the simple lack of venue continuity is a bit daunting.  It's easy that I only have one costume, but part of me misses the sequins!  Each locations also has different people performing with us, so no two shows will be the same. I do love the stage, but dancing in European cathedrals is something I never even dreamed about.  That in itself is a heavenly gift.  MERDE to all of my cast members here, and the future ones on the other side of the pond!  We couldn't have done any of this without the support of the original cast members we leave behind.  We'll have a Guiness in your honor!

 

JUBILEE! 30th reunion:  So far, I have a list of 17 people for 1st show.  I've tried to call Randy a few times, but his phone is always busy!  He doesn't have call waiting, so I'll just keep trying.  I'm sure the list will keep growing.  We now have 28 Blog Members!  Lisa Gallion had a good idea that we should have drinks before, during AND after, ha!  Pour quoi pas?  

The merry month of May!

Hey Kids,

This time last year I was a stress case as I prepared for the studio's annual recital, but of course it's always very exciting to see how the students progressed over the year.  On the home front we were in the middle of trying to figure out what we were going to do since my husband decided to leave his job.  Needless to say, this time last year was quite stressful.

This year, I have no classes, no recital, no older children graduating, we have big travel plans behind us and nothing until mid-June, so things are very quite this month and while I'm a bit melancholy for the hub-bub, I realize it's a gift to be relaxed and I'm gladly endulging. 

I've committed myself last night to officially joining the Irish Tour of Heaven & Earth (meaning, I spent the last of my UA Miles to get the ticket!).  Rehearsals are underway, and we'll leave June 15th.  Sara Honey will meet me over there somewhere and we are trying to work out the details.  If anyone else is over there at that time, please let me know!

I'm feeling pretty calm about the JUBILEE! reunion as one of our alumni has agreed to host the family day, but I've not heard back which day.  I've asked for Thursday or Friday (July 28 or 29).   I've also put out a note about 1st show on Thursday, July 28th.  I thought about 2nd show as we could go out later, but Jerri reminded me that most locals have kids/jobs and won't want to stay out late, so I took her advice.

I'm calling Randy & Diane this week to let them know what is happening.  Brooke Brown said it's probably better to see if Randy can get us the tickets at this point.  They are $15 which I think is totally reasonable.  Crazy Horse was 25 Euro for dancers and Kimberly is friends with the stage manager!  So, I don't think we can complain. 

Shannon Hardin sent an email and posted an invite on FB for Golden Rainbow.  If I was in Vegas, I'd love to do it, it sounds like a great time, especially if you never had the opportunity to perform in a Golden Rainbow event: 

Golden Rainbow Alumni Opening Number

Sunday, June 26, 2011 at 1:00pm

Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, June 26, 2011 1pm

 

Don't forget, we'll be sharing our July 28th-30th weekend with S&R performers, so if you know folks from both, please send them this link!   For S&R info please contact Kimberly Shelton either on FB or leave her a message on here!  

 

After I speak with Diane & Randy I'll let you all know if there is anything new to report.  Apparently it's the same ol' same ol'---SECRET.  

I hope that you are all enjoying yourselves and see you in July!  Love to hear from you at any time!

Cindy/Cynthia

PARIS IN THE THE SPRING

Hey Kids (as Fluff would say)

Do any of you remember that optical illusion?  There was a sign that said that and then it noted that 99% of the population won't notice the extra "the"!   Well, after last week, I would say that I probably wouldn't have noticed either.  The weather was something straight out of an bohemian oil painting with everything blooming, people strolling, relaxing, enjoying life and springtime that only the city of Paris can  take to ethereal levels.

I'd like to tell you that we talked about the Jubilee! reunion, but that would be lying.  Well, OK, it was mentioned.  Sara Honey said she absolutely can't make July, but I told her that that's pretty much when most people are expecting it.  I think that the time we had time in Paris was just as wonderful!  As it turns out, she will most likely meet me in Wales and then I'll return with her to London to fly back home.  It'll be a very short meeting, but being able to see friends whenever we can is a gift and we just need to take the opportunity when it comes.  This much is for sure, the time is never long enough.

I'm planning on the LAST WEEK OF JULY.  Angelia seems to have found a park that would be good for all of us as it seems to have some sort of fountain or something that the kids or adults can cool off in!  Also, if we are just a few people, we could probably all come to our time share and the pool. That way, if people want to go in and cool off they can.  Anyway, as I'm driving to Canada tomorrow I will call Angelia and see what sort of info for the park she's come up with.  Her idea of everyone bringing their own food is my vote (ie, Subway, drinks, etc).   At this point then, we'll have a FAMILY DAY and then go to one of the shows one of the evenings.  The family day can be on Friday when the current cast is off or we can do it in addition.  If we have kids with us, they'll want extra time at the park anyway.

It's amazing we still have no official news from Bally's but at this point, I could care less!  After this last week in Paris and meeting the people who really made an effort to get together with us, that is really what it's all about.  

I'm going to already go ahead and ask some current cast members to see how many tickets they can get for Thursday, July 28th, second show.  Can we all stay up that late??  If we can do Moulin Rouge and Crazy Horse at mid-night, we can do 10PM ish! 

I'm off to my first traditional Indian wedding!  I'm so excited! I wish I'd had some time to look at some Bollywood moves, but alas, I'll just have to try and fake it, ha!

Much love to all of you and yours!  Cindy/Cynthia

Mini Reunion in Paris Aptil 19-27, 2011

Hi all!


It's great that folks are starting to comment.  Angelia, thank you so much for finding that information about the parks.  If you could call or check the web-site for us, that would be great and thanks!  Kimberly, also thanks for posting the Siegfried & Roy agenda.  Maybe folks would like updates when you receive them.

Since Bally's set the date as July 30th and S&R is also that weekend,  some people have told me they feel it's best if we do it before so we don't interfere with their happenings.

(PLEASE NOTE:  our unofficial date has not been set.  I'm sorry if the previous blog about the Bally's date of July 30th was confusing.  BTW--info from inside sources tell me that they still have nothing more than the date!).


On Tuesday, April 19, Kimberly Shelton, Sara Honey and I will all meet up in Paris!   While we are there, we'll meet with current and past LIDO & Moulin Rouge dancers and their growing families.  We will surely be discussing the Jubilee! reunion.  I will have my SKYPE set up  (cpbeschel is how you find me), so if any of you would like to talk to us, we'd love to talk to you too!  One of the nights I will be spending with Bricky, when she's off from the LIDO and won't be on there, but the rest of the week you'll find us! 


I'm continuing to get input/info via FB, I'm still trying to get those folks to post their great ideas!  So, next time you think of sending me a note about the reunion, please think about posting it.  I appreciate all of you and will write to you from the original "City of Light" (although, I now think that title more aptly describes Vegas).  


Love to all,   Cindy/Cynthia

Jubilee! reunion: Bally's date set to July 30th

Hey all,

thanks to Donna's post on FB (head dresser), she mentioned the new Pier costumes for the 30th Anniversary, July 30th!  So, we have the date, even if was obtained in a round about way.

I assumed it would be then anyway from the few insiders I've talked to.  Again, it works for a few folks that have done both Jubilee! & Siegfried & Roy.  

So, let's start putting in our thoughts for things around that date.  For me, as a traveler, it's still cheaper to avoid the weekend, unless it's a Sunday, but of course, I realize that may not be possible.

I still think Holly's comment about having a BBQ sounds good.  Now, we just need someone on the Vegas side to find a place with a shelter and reserve it.  Any takers?  If we have to pay a reservation fee, of course we will split the difference.  

Honestly, I think the BBQ would be the best time.  It's casual, family will be there and we can just relax and not shout over slot machines or bar noise.  Anyone agree to that?  We could make that the MAIN EVEN, then those that want to go to the show that night or another can be arranged as well.  (That said, it'll have to be a Friday for those current folks??  Donna, Diane, Anthony, Brooke, Steve, Julie, etc.--KIMBERLY--please let us know when the BBQ is for S&R!)

Please make some suggestions!  I just see that as the most basic for everyone.  Hope to hear from you!  

Vacation is waiting....love to all!  Cindy/Cynthia

What's Next?

Bonjour a tous! 

The show was a success beyond all of our imaginations.  There is some bible verse that states: An Unexpected Adventure....forgive me, I suppose I could research which book it's from, but you get my idea.
 
Unfortuantely, very few photos turned out due to bad lighting, sigh.  I've posted a few on FB.

Tomorrow, Friday, we take off for San Antonio, Texas.  We'll be driving roughly 1,000 miles, one way.  We will be down there until April 15th and then we have to make a flying trip home so that I can leave for Paris by the 19th!  It's going to be tight since it will probably take 2-2.5 days to get back. 

I've sent Diane another mail for an update, but she's not responded.  Also, it's up in the air about whether or not I go to Ireland with Heaven & Earth.  Right now, the production is not slotted for dancers in the EU tour  but I'm working on that!  So, if I go, it'll be around the 3rd week of June.

Angelia mentioned that Golden Rainbow is end of June, but since she didn't post it  (take heed all those with great ideas but not posting them!), we didn't really get any feed back.  I don't mind doing it then, so we could watch Golden Rainbow as well, but until I get some feed back...!  As it would interfere with Ireland, I won't support end of June at this point unless it works for most.


I talked to Holly Dexter, who was talking to Michelle (can't spell her maiden name) Gaftoi and they were saying they should have a Jubilee! BBQ, she told Michelle to organize it, and so it never happened.  That seems to be the whole attitude.  Everyone wants something to happen, but no one wants to follow through.

I will be doing a bit more research (digging for info/gossip) on this road trip.  In Paris, I will have help from Kimberly and Sara and we will nail this puppy down!

Have a great weekend!  Love to all,  Cindy/Cynthia

Heaven & Earth: Celtic Mass => SOLD OUT, BUT.... (read on)

For all the folks that had intended to come to the show and could not get tickets because it was sold out, GOOD NEWS:

It was decided to allow admission at the filming/dress rehearsal AT 2.30PM,  SATURDAY APRIL 2nd!!!

Here is how it will work:

• $10.00 suggested donation per person regardless of age.
• Seating between 2:00 and 2:25. NO ADMITTANCE AFTER THIS TIME.
• Make your donation at the south welcome desk in the narthex
• Entry to the sanctuary will be by the south side door of the narthex.
• NO YOUNG CHILDREN. IPTV WILL BE RECORDING
• NO INTERMISSION.

WHERE? First Christian Church, 25th and University in Des Moines

WHEN? April 2nd starting @ 2.30pm (remember: no seating after 2.25pm, because of IPTV recording)

HEAVEN & EARTH: one week countdown!

bonjour a tous!

I've now entered the one week countdown to my "coming out of retirement" show and I'm a mess.  My perimenopausal brain has left my memory crippled and insecure.  Usually, when I'm in a show, it's pretty easy to lose a few extra pounds.  I'm actually trying hard and while I'm getting into shape, I'm not really losing weight.  I've never considered doing a "Natalie Portman diet,"  I could almost go there this week, but I don't even know how to do a drastic weight loss...I guess that's a good thing...?  Anyway, for the average person, I'm in pretty good shape, ha!

Anyway, most of the stress comes from doing solos.  I've never been a soloist and I find it crazy that  now, at this age, that's what I'm doing, and a lot of it to boot.  I was glad to see that a few other dancers my age have also come out of retirement recently at the "Lido Tour goes to Moscow," a couple of weeks ago.  I saw that one of the dancers, two kids later, who started with me, actually looks BETTER than she did when we were starting the LIDO.   A new genre of dancer is emerging and it's so exciting.  They realize now they can have a family, age, and still enjoy dancing.  I'm a bit jealous that this wave didn't start 10 years ago when I thought at 33, "oh, I'm getting too old to do this anymore."  I'm sure I'm not the only one feeling that way (if you are reading this). 

I'm sorry I've not done anymore for the reunion.  I promise that I'll get back in the mode.  Even as I apologize, I'll be honest that no one else is coming up with anything either!

Kimberly, Sara and I have all of our logistics worked out for Paris.  We'll be staying with another fellow dancer the first two days and catching up with 2 more during that time (the Moulin Rouge group).  After Sara arrives, we'll then move to the Bastille area (where she and I stayed this summer during the LIDO reunion) and then we'll see some LIDO  & Crazy Horse friends.  I'm excited to see the Crazy after so many years.  The one and only time we saw it was when our friend Stacey Shea (SNude, Jubilee '94 started with Angelia and myself) was there for a few months before she got bored to death. 

Ok, I look forward to hearing from any of you out there! 

Dancers Dance,  love, Cynthia

Week March 14th Update

Hi All,

not much going on in the reunion area, but still have my feelers out!

Kimberly Shelton was just in Vegas helping Svetlana with some final moving and all seems well!  Svet and Paul took her to see Phantom, and she said it was nice to finally see the show live.

Angelia Zauch will be in Vegas end of the month for a soccer tournament.  Give her a shout out on here if you are around!

Abbey Apple (singer line) is currently performing in "Bingo-The Musical" at the Dairy Center in Boulder, Colorado. Join the fun and laughs and play Bingo with us!"  MERDE ABBEY APPLE!!!!!

I have two weeks to my show and am having the usual stress and anxiety, ugh!

The Lido is in Moscow and Bricky, I know you are exhausted!  Have fun though!


I have to run, rehearsal time!

Love, C

Jubilee! Update/S&R Reunion

Jubilee! Update/S&R Reunion

Hi Everyone!

We are now 24 strong and I'm so happy to see all of you!   As I've said before, Diane knows of our agenda and she's working on helping us out.

Kimberly Shelton (BBell/Short Nude/Moulin Rouge/S&R) sent me an important notice that S&R are having their reunion at the end of July.  July 31st and August 1st, to be exact.  Since the rumor is that our Jubilee reunion will be in July anyway, Kimberly and I thought it could be a good idea to link it to the S&R's reunion so that folks can come into town for BOTH.  We can organize it for the day before or after.  (we can do that Fri & Sat before.  Tues would be cheaper, but Jub is dark on Friday and that way they can enjoy it too) 


Other than Kimberly, Jen Dorf, and Kathy (BBell, can't remember her last name--Kimberly help me out ;-), I don't know too many who did both Jubilee! and S&R.  If you do, please let us know.  Also, those dates could be good as they are not around any holidays.  


Any thoughts???  Have a great weekend!

Jubilee! Update/S&R Reunion

Hi Everyone!

We are now 23 strong and I'm so happy to see all of you!   As I've said before, Diane knows of our agenda and she's working on helping us out.

Kimberly Shelton (BBell/Short Nude/Moulin Rouge/S&R) sent me an important notice that S&R are having their reunion at the end of July.  July 31st and August 1st, to be exact.  Since the rumor is that our Jubilee reunion will be in July anyway, Kimberly and I thought it could be a good idea to link it to the S&R's reunion so that folks can come into town for BOTH.  We can organize it for the day before or after.  (we can do that Fri & Sat before.  Tues would be cheaper, but Jub is dark on Friday and that way they can enjoy it too) 

I've also mentioned to Diane that it would be nice to know if Fluff is retiring.  It's been said that she would retire when the show turned 30.   I think it would be more than fantastic if that could be at the same time as well! 


Other than Kimberly, Jen Dorf, and Kathy (BBell, can't remember her last name--Kimberly help me out ;-), I don't know too many who did both Jubilee! and S&R.  If you do, please let us know.  Also, those dates could be good as they are not around any holidays.  


Any thoughts???  Have a great weekend!


PS--Kimberly and I will be meeting up in Houston to fly to Paris as we meet up with Sara Honey.  While we wait for our international flight, Rocky Banks will be coming to the airport to have lunch with us!  I've not seen Rocky in years!  

Jubilee! Update

Hi All,

I received a nice letter from Diane Palm, and she was saying that date STILL has not been set, but that she would put in a word that there are a group of ex dancers who would like to be included (or something like that).  Anyway, I thought it was really nice of her to include us when she talks to the Marketing folks and maybe, just maybe, I'm hoping they'd open it up to us as well instead of closing it all off as they did for the 25th. 

Not that we can't have our own party, but if they are already organizing something, let them do it and we join in!  PLEASE remember to invite other ex dancers that I may not know or have on FB.

I'm still wanting to keep this an open forum, so please feel free to talk about anything that's on your mind!  That's what this is all about! 

I'm nervous about the Graham master class.  I watched some technique classes on YouTube last night and I'd forgotten how intricate it all is.  My hip flexors are already tensed up just watching.  I feel that I've lost so much flexibility in my spine (at least what's required for Graham).  I'm glad I don't have rehearsal tomorrow, that's all I can say!

Have a great weekend and please post when you have time so I know you are all alive and well out there!  Love to you all!  C

Heaven & Earth: Celtic Mass

Here's the local show that I'm performing in:

"HEAVEN & EARTH: A CELTIC MASS"
by Ben Allaway

First Christian Church, 25th and University Avenue, Des Moines
Tickets: $15 in advance, $17 at the door, $10 student
Join the Des Moines Vocal Arts Ensemble in collaboration with other co-commissioning choirs, Tommy Sands and Tim Diebel, narrators, and Ben Allaway, conductor, in the world premiere performance of this new work by Des Moines composer, Ben Allaway. Featuring Tommy Sands and his Band from Northern Ireland, Heaven & Earth: A Celtic Mass is an epic tale of the Celtic Spirit of the people of Ireland, Wales, Scotland, and England, and of those who brought this culture to cities, farms and mountain dwellings across America. Iowa composer Ben Allaway traveled to the Celtic countries and to Celtic strongholds in America, to many places where his own ancestors lived on both sides of the ocean. He has combined his keen understanding of traditional choral writing with his love of folk music, scoring the work for choir, Celtic band, organ and soloists. Hear tales of historic figures, individuals, and families, told against the emotional landscape of the traditional Latin mass. Coeli et Terra - or, Heaven and Earth - a recurring phrase in the Mass, is meaningful to Celtic spirituality which acknowledges the relationship between the Creation we can see - the visibilium - and the part of Creation in the spirit realm - the invisibilium. Celtic peoples' strong connection with the earth, the sea, sky, fire, wind and rain, and the "thin places" where the tangible world meets the unseen heavenly places close enough to touch, makes for vivid imagery and emotional story-telling.

Jubilee!/Logistics

Hi all!

I've been asking you all for some ideas on dates, but not heard any feed back.  How about we also start talking about whether you want to do this on a weekend or during the week?

For those of us who will be coming from out of town, it's always cheaper to be there during the week.  We have a time share there, and my whole family is joining me, so if I can't get any dates from people, I'll just find out when I can get the time share and build it all around that.  I'm not trying to be selfish, but I think it's just better to get a date and then we can get going.  Most folks who live in town can work around almost anything.

Kimberly and I have already planned and organized our trip to Paris!  I'm amazed, we talked about it for a couple of weeks and then it's done.  Much easier to organize for two.  Anyway, Sara Honey is planning on joining us as well not to mention all the dancers we know over there. I wish you could all join us!  I'm excited to go and just be a tourist, just be me and not visiting family and not ever having time to do what I used to do in Paris.  I'm so lucky to have this time! (not that I don't appreciate my in-laws, but I miss ME sometimes ;-)

**If you want to receive more day to day updates, I've also started a Twitter account and you can find me simply as:  dancersdumonde

I was thinking I could gather everyone's email addresses and send out round mails.  Would you all be OK with that?

Brooke has been kind enough to help us get tickets.  I'm still trying to confirm the price.  Last year, we paid $10/person.  That's totally reasonable and we sat very close, which makes it more fun for us and the cast. 

I look forward to hearing from you!

Let's get this party started!

Hi all, we are up to 14 strong, and that's enough to get started.  My last post was to get some ideas for times.  Brooke, have you had time to check into anything? Again, you are inside link ;-)  Diane still hasn't gotten back to me.  Usually, she's very quick so I'm just going to call. 

Are there any times that people already know they will be in Vegas?  Angelia, I know that you will be there end of March for your son's soccer tournament.  I cannot come until after April 2, as I said before.  But, that doesn't mean that people can't organize little mini get reunions. Please feel free to use this blog to do so.  If others see it, then they too can contact you and join in!

Question:  Do you all prefer Spring or waiting until closer to the official date in July???  Personally, I'd rather do it sooner rather than later, just because putting things off usually results in things not happening! 

Start putting some thoughts out there.....thanks!!!

JUBILEE! turns 30

Hi all! 

We might as well start talking about dates!  Last year, as Kimberly and Angelia posted, we were a small group, but we had a GREAT time!   Four of us went to dinner, met up with others at the Sports bar outside the theatre (it was the first time any of us had entered through the theatre's front doors!) and watched the show.  Randy was good enough to get us dancer discounted tickets at $10.  I'm hoping that can happen again.  All in all, about 10 of us watched the show and then met up with a couple of folks still in the show (Brooke stopped by to say HI!). 

Brooke, right now, you are the only one on the "inside."  Do you know anything about any times or official happenings??  I'm still waiting to hear back from Diane about that, but maybe you can help us faster?

I personally can't make it before April 2nd as that's the day we have our performance here that will be taped live on Public Television. 

I heard that the 25th reunion was by invitation only, so we may be better off just to take it upon ourselves to organize something around the same time that the "official" time would/will be.  Once we get that information, we can start talking dates!!  Thanks all!

JUBILEE! turns 30

Hi folks!

Thanks for taking the time to join my blog.  My goal is to hear if people are wanting and willing to meet in Vegas for the reunion.  As I said on the first blog, doing it via Face Book is fine, but I also want people who are not on FB. 

PLEASE feel free to forward URL to anyone who is either not on FB or not friends with me.  Abby, thank you for suggesting that I find Mikey!  I'm sure there's other folks out there that I'm missing and I'm sure they'd appreciate being included anyway we can. This way, if people don't want to friend me, they can still partake in the dialogue with everyone else.  

There's a few people, like Robin, who isn't on FB and doesn't check her email regularly that I'm going to have to call or figure something else out.

Last year, it was a small group who gathered for dinner and then went to the show and then met afterward for drinks.  It was a great time and didn't involve any stress, that is my goal! 

I've spoken with Randy (backstage) and I've sent Diane an email, so I hope to hear some more details soon.  The few folks that I still know in the show, maybe you could shed some light! 

Enough for now, hope to hear from you!  Love, Cindy

Welcome to Dancers du Monde!

Hello everyone!

Thank you for coming to my blog.  This is the first time I'm posting--wooo hoooo!  I'm starting this as a place where any and all dancers/students/choreographers/teachers/studio owners/managers and other artists can meet and discuss whatever is going on in their world.

I'll start!  For me, there are currently two things that I am involved in:

I am performing in what has been labeled as the "first ever, Celtic Mass."  It will have 190 choral members, 10-15 dancers, a small orchestra and performers from Ireland.  My current ballet instructor, Hank Adams, is the choreographer.  I am taking adult ballet with in his new studio, The Pointe Academy, in West Des Moines, Iowa.  I'm having so much fun dancing again on my home turf!

The second thing I'd like to start organizing is an informal reunion of my "JUBILEE!" cast mates.  The show   turns 30 this year and so I'm trying to get a feel of when is the best time for folks to come together and the official celebration with Bally's Hotel & Casino.  I want to start a message board for this and I hope you will contribute!  (I'm open to suggestion how and where to do that...the technical aspect of that is currently in the works!)   The problem with using Face Book is that I can only put so many people on each FB  e-mail.

Ok, this is enough for now!  Stay tuned, thank you!

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