Dabbling with Dali: 3 days of dizzying delight with the art of a genius

 

The Dali Theatre-Museum is a magnificent, over-the-top creation designed by Salvador Dali himself.  He supervised construction upon the remains of the former Figueres Theatre of his childhood.
It is one of three museums operated by the Dali Foundation, all worthy of close attention.

Bruce Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers
at the Gala Dali Castle in Pubol, a place of
exuberant creativity dedicated to Dali's wife.

Salvador Dali supervised the "redo" of the
former Figueres theatre, where he showed his
early work. The stairway of Dali Theatre-
Museum is one of many eye-catching features.
 

HELLO, DALI!
SPANISH ARTIST
CREATED UNIQUE BODY OF ART

Flamboyant maestro of dreams and delusions has trio of unique museums in Spain

STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS

                                                                               PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER

A polar bear greets visitors to the Gala and Dali
house in Port Lligat, Cadaques. It is one of many
bizarre and intriguing features of the home.
 

IT WAS a dizzying three days, as we visited a trio of museums in Spain devoted to the art of Salvador Dali. His works are under the control of the Dalí Foundation. It includes three very different museums in Figueres, Púbol and Port Lligat in  Cadaqués. We joined 1.5 million people who make a pilgrimage each year to the "Dalí Triangle." 

Dali Castle in Port Lligat, Cadaques, is a gorgeous
castle which Dali purchased as a gift for Gala.
He could not visit without written permission.

Each of the 3 museums is unique, worthy of a visit.

Dali Castle in Port Lligat, Cadaques, is a gorgeous
castle which Dali purchased as a gift for Gala.
He could not visit without written permission.

It's best to savor them on different days, to spread the wonder -- giving each museum its own "breathing room" and devoting time to each place. They deserve the attention and you will need the time to sort, digest and ponder this maestro of dreams and delusion.

WE HAD visited the Dali Theatre-Museum twice before and years apart since it was inaugurated 50 years ago in 1974.  We decided to revisit the unique museum as it entered its second half- century of entertaining a worldwide audience. We needed the grounding and reminder of his scope.

Larger than life Dali, click here

THE MUSEUM in Figueres is a culmination of the eccentric surrealist's life work, conceived and designed by Dali, who visited daily to supervise. The place is as intriguing and mysterious as Dali. 
Its broad range of work begins with his earliest artistic experiences and follows into his final years.  An homage to Mae West has its own room. 

 

Dali's exquisite jewel artworks:
dazzling gold, precious stones.

In other galleries, Dali's detailed landscapes need a magnifying glass to fully appreciate his immaculate tiny brushstrokes.  On close inspection, one finds intricate trees, people and objects that might go unnoticed. Our 

In Figueres, Mae West
has her own gallery.

guide borrowed a fellow tourist's phone to show the detail of a postage-stamp-sized detail: an entire cityscape emerged to our "oohs and aahs." There are dozens of drawings, too, and if you aren't sufficiently dazzled, the Dali-Jewels gallery near the building's exit will push you over the top: 41 exquisite gold and stone jewels.

THE TWO less visited museums are a Medieval castle in Pubol, which Dali bought for his wife, muse and equally eccentric Gala, and

Dali's castle gift for Gala came with strings
attached -- not by him, but by her.  

 the Salvador Dali House-Museum, the most personal of the three.  It is in the municipality of Cadaques, in a village on the bay known as Port Lligat. (Sometimes spelled as a single word.) 

Dali and Gala (center)
entertained the Walt
Disneys and others.

FANS OF Dali will find each place offers fascinating detail with insights into the life of the man who lived from 1904 to 1989. He was named after a dead brother and raised by a tyrannical father which naturally shaped him and influenced his art. He studied in Madrid and in 1929, he met Gala, Russian wife of fellow surrealist poet Paul Éluard. She became his lifelong muse and partner. Gala and Dalí moved into a small house in Portl Lligat in 1930, which they expanded as they purchased nearby fishermen's huts. In 1969, Dali began converting the 12th Century castle in Púbol into '"Gala's Castle" collecting textiles, antiques and murals to create a splendid setting where Gala reigned.  Designed as a gift to Gala, the castle became her private home, and Dalí could visit only with Gala's prior written permission.

The approach to Dali's Port Lligat home gives
a feeling of the peace that the artist felt there.

THE HOME on the port is our favorite -- the complex of transformed fisherman's huts is a maze of eccentric adornments -- a stuffed bear, a mirror that seizes morning light, dozens of personal effects. From his bedroom Dali could see the coast. He built a beautiful terrace, put his spin on a Greek statue and decorated his swimming pool.

More on Dali, click here

Dali chose the bay for his home.
He spent his last years there
after his wife, Gala, died.

You've likely heard of the world famous Salvador Dalí Theatre Museum in Figueres but not many outside of Spain know about Dalí ’s house in Port  Lligat or his wife’s castle in Pubol, sometimes called  "the Kinky Castle" because Gala entertained her young lovers there. Some believe Dali encouraged her liasons with voyeuristic enthusiasm.  

Dali's "The Persistence of
Time," his most famous work. 

Dali was a master of self promotion
and Gala was an expert at getting
the best prices for his artwork. 

GALA DIED in 1982 and was buried on the Castle's grounds. Then Dalí remained in Port Lligat, establishing his final studio. In our three days, we came to know Dali better.  He was flamboyant -- he wore sweeping capes and grew his signature mustache early in his career.  He was sensitive, felt things deeply
and reacted with passion to slights. But the visionary artist strayed from the avant-garde, eventually alienating comrades through his outspoken support for Franco and his idiosyncratic flair. His prodigious creativity cannot be denied for it spawned paintings, sculpture, fashion, advertisements, books and film.  His ending was sad: he was badly burned in a fire and spent his final years wheelchair bound.

More information on tickets and booking. Reservations are required: www.salvador-dali.org; reserves@fundaciodali.org 

Antoni Gaudi's Guell Park is full of magical creations.
Come with us to visit one of Barcelona's beloved attractions. 

ON TAP:  We're in an "art state of mind," visiting both nature's creations and some of the world's greatest museums in Spain, England, the Caribbean and in the U.S. Coming in the next weeks are pieces on Antoni Gaudi's magical Guell Park in Barcelona, the caves of Barbados and Bermuda, a beautiful crater in Ponta Delgada and the masterpieces within the fabulous Museum of Modern Art in New York City. We're mingling with famous artist creations, paintings and painters and we will also head to the real west to feature a Montana museum celebrating the work of cowboy artist Charles Russell. Meanwhile, keep on the sunny side, visit a museum, treat a friend or relative to an art gallery stroll and remember to explore, learn and live.  Catch us weekly for a fresh spin on performance, art, travel, family and more:  www.whereiscookie.com

 

Bathroom tips: pointers on how to find one abroad, plus unique ones!

A men's bathroom in Singapore offers greenery along with sparkling clean urinals.
Not all bathrooms abroad are as clean or nicely appointed.

BATHROOM POINTERS WHILE   ABROAD: KEEP YOUR EYES OPEN AND CHANGE AND PAPER IN YOUR POCKET

Bathroom art is sometimes whimsical.
Here we find a trio of famous artists
out for a drive: Salvador Dali, Frida
Kahlo and a bloody Vincent VanGogh.

STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS
PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER


IF YOU'VE spent time abroad, you've likely experienced confusion while trying to answer the call of nature. 

Where to go when you have to go?

You're saying to yourself, "I need a bathroom now."  Your eyes have scoured the scene to no avail.

Often in a strange place, you can't find a john, or when you do, you have questions.

Maybe there's a turn style with a stern looking woman standing by. Do you pay her, and how much? Is there toilet paper? Unisex? How do I flush the damn thing?

LOOK FOR signs. One might say "WC" (short for water closet). It will usually say "toilet." It's not a "restroom" or "bathroom" although we'll call them by our familiar names here.  But abroad, those words are not widely recognized. 

At a WC abroad, you might find little drawings or cartoon figures of a man and woman.  Signs might say "men and women" in the native language, so bone up on the language:

Sometimes in Europe, asking for
 a "bathroom" will literally lead you
to a room with a bath, and no toilet.
 Ask for "WC" "toilet," "bano" etc.

Hombres, mujeres; männer, frauen; hommes, femmes; uomini e donne; madames, monsieurs;  menn, umen; Etc., A few words of homework.

This nicely decorated men's WC is in Provence.

In Japan, we found this on a bathroom in a Kyoto restaurant: "men and umen." Nice to see the distinction because we don't read much Japanese. In Greece, we saw this sign: Άνδρες Γυναίκες so we've learned to recognize the Greek for "men and women."

It never hurts to ask, or wait until the door opens and see who walks out or in.

This toilet sign in Portugal made us
laugh. Who knew people would stand?
 

FORTUNATELY, most service people and many of the citizens abroad speak English.  In many countries, it is compulsory in schools, but we always carry a Berlitz translation book and learn a few words and phrases in the native tongue. My college French helped a lot in Paris: "Où sont les toilettes s’il vous plaît?" always brought a smile and a friendly point to the restroom. But don't be offended if your best foreign language question is answered in English. 

Knowing a few words, though, always opens doors, wins friends -- and helps find bathrooms.

A spotless toilet in a European
hotel off the lobby. Notice the
flush above, soaps and lotion. 

 The more remote your destination, the less likely of widespread English, making it all the more important to know a few key phrases and words.
SMALL-TOWN foreign toilets tend to be functional, reasonably clean, and tiny, often at the back of the shop or restaurant, or maybe up the stairs or down the basement. Remember: most of these places were around before modern plumbing. 

IF YOU ARE near a restaurant or bar, you may have to purchase something to use the restroom.  Most cafes and restaurants will have a toilet for customers to use. This is usually included with a purchase and you'll might see a sign that says "customers only, no public toilet." So grab a chair and a drink or snack.

It's "toilette" or "toilet." A
bathroom is where you bathe.

Some places allow non-customers to use the toilet for a small fee, in Europe, usually a Euro.  Recently, in Provence, the waiter explained to four of us that purchasing a cafe au lait was expected in return for use of the loo. No problem.  Four Euros each well spent.

A few more tips, gleaned from years of travel:

A men's room in the famous Sydney
Opera House offers a view of the
architecture while you relieve.

*Always carry a few sheets of toilet paper or a tissue. Many foreign toilets don't provide it, or you'll find it out of stock. We take pocket-sized tissue packs in our backpack or my purse. And if you see a wastebasket near the toilet, you'll know the plumbing is likely fragile. Use it for your paper, instead of flushing. You'll find in some places with older systems, the paper is NEVER flushed down the toilet. I know, it's not the American way, but when in Rome....or China, or a beach on the south of France....

*IN OLDER hotels and restaurants, you'll sometimes find a pull string instead of a handle. In modern bathrooms, you may see a push panel above the toilet or two buttons or a large split button near the tank or on the top -- one for light flush, one for heavier. It's a water conservation method.

 Someone with a sense of humor decorated this
toilet display, a urinal in Honolulu.

 The rule of thumb in small or older toilets or on a tour boat or bus: Don't put anything in the toilet that doesn't come naturally from your body. 
* PAYING to use a public WC is a European custom that annoys some Americans. We never quibble because the city or village is offering a service and water is expensive. Pay toilets are the norm at highway rest areas, train stations, and even at some sights — so keep your change for a john.  

Recently in southern France, we found  a WC with a self-cleaning toilet seat and a spray for the floor.

This classic "squat" toilet was in
a unisex facility in a Turkish museum.

* Often the toilet itself is free, but an attendant in the corner may sell sheets of toilet paper. A common sight is the tip dish by the entry.  Many attendants leave only bills and large coins in their tray, but the local equivalent of a dollar is plenty, so don't be intimidated. But do smile and be polite. It usually helps.

We've met many cranky toilet attendants so we try to be nice with a tip.  Who can blame them?  They spend their day in rooms of stinky toilets with people who often don't have change.

Be kind and polite and leave a few coins.

* We've noticed more and more unisex toilets abroad, recently in both South America and Europe. Some European bathrooms have shared hand-washing facilities for women and men, with adjacent but separate toilet areas. And some restrooms make no distinctions for gender at all. Again, when in Rome.

Remember to ask for the
toilet, or "le toilette."

* Most European, Asian and South American toilets are similar to ours. But in remote places or on the beach, you might find a more rustic facility.  It might consist simply of porcelain footprints and a squat-and-aim hole. Sometimes they are in the shape of a urinal, but built into the floor.

Keep in mind that many of our fellow humans sit on their haunches to use the bathroom. Some cultures call these "Turkish toilets," probably because they are commonly found in Turkey and that part of the world.

Be flexible, polite, carry change and paper, and plan ahead. 
And of course, the rule of thumb: if you see a toilet, use it, even if you don't think you need one.  

Salvador Dali was eccentric from childhood
into his final days.  Here, near the end of his
unusual life, he posed with his favorite cane.

ON TAP:  Hello, Dali! If you're intrigued by the imagination and eccentricity of Spanish surrealist  Salvador Dali, come to his homeland with us to visit a trio of museums dedicated to his art, life and passions. We step inside a castle he bought for his wife-mistress-muse, Gala, and spend time in his own home on the seaside of northeastern Spain.  Finally, we revisit his enormous museum in Figueres, where he was born and grew up. Then more art is in store: New York's famous Museum of Modern Art, and Barcelona's Gaudi homes, Sagrada Familia and an update on the Getty Center and Getty Villa, which closed because of the fires. Remember to explore, learn and live and catch us weekly for a fresh spin on the arts, travel, performance, nature, family and more: www.whereiscookie.com 

 

Put yourself on a Segway for fun, frolic, sights of Fort Lauderdale

 

Enjoying their Segways: Bruce Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers
are Segway devotees, thanks to a terrific guide and a beautiful venue.  

CALM YET EXCITING: FUN IN FLORIDA AS COOKIE CONQUERS HER FEAR OF SEGWAY  

STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS

PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER

Confident after her lesson,
Cookie takes off, following
guide Michael on Riverwalk.

I'D BEEN on a Segway once --  22 years ago when they were first coming into vogue. It didn't go well.
I was with a large group of travel writers and we didn't have a proper lesson. Midway through, I lost my balance and careened into a ditch. Fortunately it was a small ditch, and not deep. But both my body and my ego were bruised.
So I took a break from the this unique two-wheeled mode of transportation, and didn't take the sport up again until recently.

Segway fans show how easy it is to find
balance, by proper foot placement.

HAPPILY, I had a wonderful, safe experience thanks to Michael, who taught me how to operate and ride my new friend with a thorough 20-minute lesson. He was patient and encouraging and I had an entirely different experience than that first adventure. Bruce Keller, a natural born athlete, was at ease from the get-go. But I needed Michael's assistance.

Michael is a terrific guide,
here patiently instructing
a nervous Cookie.

His tutoring gave me courage and calmed my frayed nerves. I can't wait to do it again. He made our Segway experience a treat, and soon I had graduated from the parking lot and back roads to the city's winding Riverwalk.  He guided us past glistening yachts, towering skyscrapers, opulent mansions, and celebrity homes in this gorgeous, well manicured corner of south Florida.

Michael is a skilled and patient guide
with knowledge of his home town,
including the rainbow eucalyptus.

THE KEY to my success this second time around on a Segway was good coaching. Michael took time to make sure I understood how important it is to balance my feet properly. He gave careful instructions on starting, stopping and turning. Soon I was confident, no longer the cowardly lion of my first experience.

ONE MAY choose from several tours. We booked the yacht and mansion tour, which gave us close-up looks of some of the spectacular homes in Fort Lauderdale and a nature park. Other tours highlight the beach, comedy clubs, restaurants. One may also customize a private tour to highlight a specific fancy, perhaps food. Both one and two-hour tours are available, and small groups are welcome. Michael insists one does not need to have experience, balance, or coordination. He complimented cowardly me and I felt good on my machine. "Anyone with reasonable co-ordination can learn it in just minutes," he said. When we return, we'll look into Michael's eco/nature tours. He also offers vespa scooter tours lasting 2.5 miles.

Fort Lauderdale's Riverwalk
is lovely at dusk on a Segway.

Fort Lauderdale's famed 17th Street
Bridge forms a dramatic backdrop.  

SINCE YOU'RE on wheels, you’re obviously going much faster than you would by walking. You are guaranteed to cover a greater amount of space in a shorter amount of time, thus the Segway rider is able to see more of the sights you've heard about,
If you’re pressed for time, Michael and his fellow Segway tour guides will tailor a tour to the specific places you want to see so you can customize your tour in a shorter period of time.  

Segway riders keep a safe distance from one
another as they transit the pathways.

We can't stress our guide's talents enough. He was simply terrific, and we're tour veterans -- on horses, camels and mules, in helicopters, kayaks and speed boats. Michael knew everyone in Fort Lauderdale, so we were greeted with waves and a friendly "Hi, how are you?" at every stop. 

Fort Lauderdale's famed 17th Street Bridge
opens to allow tall traffic to enter and exit.

THERE ARE a couple stops, for brief rests and a little local lore. We learned about the city's beautiful rainbow eucalyptus trees, gleaned details about the fancy yachts and who owns them, and got permission for a photo shoot on the 17th Street Bridge because Michael knows the bridge operator. He enriched the two hours, making sure we saw the hotels, park and museum we wanted to revisit and photograph. He is a proud native of the city and his stories, history and anecdotes gave us information we'd never find in a guide book.

We're Segway devotees -- and Michael fans!

 www.segwayfortlauderdale.com  (Seven days a week, by reservation.)

    

Have you really had to go and can't find a place?
Tips on finding a toilet while traveling abroad.
First, don't ask for a restroom or bathroom. You
might be directed to a shower. It's WC or toilet
and we'll give you pointers on "Europeein." 

COMING SOON:  We're having fun with bathrooms abroad.  We've photographed them for years and so we're taking a light hearted look at bathroom protocol while traveling abroad. Look for our tips on dealing with the perplexing protocol of "toilets on the road."  Then we commune with the unique art of Salvador Dali, visit Antoni Gaudi's spectacular Guell Park in Barcelona and tour New York City's prettiest places -- Central Park, the High Line and Museum of Modern Art.  Meanwhile, remember to explore, learn and live and catch us weekly for a fresh spin on nature, performance, travel, family, breaking news and more: www.whereiscookie.com

Fantastic Fort Lauderdale: fun water taxi and new Jungle Queen show

Jungle Queen is an institution in Fort Lauderdale, a beloved icon of the city and a four-generation
enterprise.  She's "reinvented" her evening cruise, dinner and show on a private island. Delightful! 

Bruce Keller and Christene
"Cookie" Meyers transit the
waterways of Fort Lauderdale
on water taxis & Jungle Queen.

JUNGLE QUEEN IS 'REIMAGINED' WITH NEW DINNER SHOW PLUS FUN ON THE TOWN'S WATER TAXI  

Fort Lauderdale's unique water taxi service is a delight,
offering a relaxing, enjoyable way to reach many locales. 

STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS

PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER

WE LOVE Fort Lauderdale, that seductive southern Florida city long beloved by the rich and famous.  Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz had a bungalow there. Superstar Jennifer Lopez and retired  NBA star Shaquille O'Neal both own  luxurious waterfront properties with six bedrooms, eight bathrooms and impressive outdoor pools.  Movie, sports and music stars own lavish homes with opulent dining rooms, Olympic size swimming pools, spas and outdoor kitchens as big as most peoples' homes.  Many stars and sports figures keep yachts here.  Stephen Speilberg's was anchored near our hotel. If you're flush, you can rent it for $1 million a week. 

Fun sights abound along
Fort Lauderdale's waterways.

We enjoy playing tourist, admiring these homes again and again aboard Fort Lauderdale's Water Taxi.  We also enjoy Jungle Queen with its fun entertainment, waterways tour and revamped dinner show at its private island. We booked the "full Monty" including cruise, dinner and show.

JUNGLE QUEEN is one of South Florida’s best-known attractions, and recently debuted its new river cruise 

and island experience.  It's called “Ignite the Night." The moniker derives from fire torches waved artfully about in Jungle Queen's Polynesian show which follows a tasty island inspired dinner.

Bruce Keller and Christene
"Cookie" Meyers aboard
Jungle Queen for a lively
evening on land and water.

WE VISITED with other tourists after boarding near the Bahia-Mar Yachting Center. Libations in hand, we began a lively 90-minute sightseeing cruise along the New River past luxurious homes and the eye-catching downtown of Fort Lauderdale. Thousands have enjoyed Jungle Queen dinner cruises since the family owned company was born in 1935.   The evening's tropical isle visit is a tourist must with its entertaining Polynesian show and time to enjoy the gardens, birds and other wildlife. One may book the sightseeing cruise only if dinner and entertainment seem too much, but the four hours of the combined event offer a good deal for a family gathering or date night.

This pelican is ready for Jungle Queen to depart.

 We like to stay at the well located Hotel Bahia Mar on Seabreeze Blvd., a Hilton Doubletree.  We enjoy it because it's an easy walk to both Jungle Queen and Fort Lauderdale's famed Water Taxi dock, so we don't need to rent a car.  Once on board the spiffy Jungle Queen, we relaxed for a 90-minute sightseeing cruises along the New River past luxurious homes and downtown Fort Lauderdale.

Jungle Queen entertains a mix of people enjoying
lovely homes, a clientele from around world.
 

The interesting commentary of the rich and famous and their homes is followed by arrival on the island.  Then the feast begins.  Drinks are available here and on the boat, from simple house wines to signature concoctions. There's time to wander, admire the trees and flowers, and an area devoted to the place's interesting history.  Don't miss this fascinating display of memorabilia -- pictures and mementos -- when you get to the island.

The Polynesian show is one of the most lively we've seen and we've seen dozens of them in Hawaii, Fiji, Samoa and elsewhere.  This one is first-rate, with  hula and fire dancers, fire eaters and more, expertly presented by Drums of Polynesia. 

IF YOU tried Jungle Queen a few years ago, it's time to revisit the evening because you'll see an entirely new show.

The Jungle Queen's private island is beautifully landscaped
and aglow with lights to highlight elaborate gardens. 

Says third-generation president Michael Faber. “We are excited that we've taken the evening in a new direction." He calls the show, "a new, reimagined Jungle Queen experience. Times and tastes change, and today’s audiences want something new."

SO THE old-fashioned Polynesian island show of yore has a new look, and is now what many consider one of the world's best.

The Polynesian show equals ones we've seen
in the South Pacific, with authentic dancers,
fine musicians and traditional hula garb.

The new adventure starts at 6 p.m. with the hour-long narrated sightseeing cruise. We joined 385 other passengers as we traveled down Fort Lauderdale’s New River and the Intracoastal Waterway, nicknamed “The Venice of America” The four-hour dinner and show ticket includes a tropical isle visit, a satisfying meal including chicken, ribs and all the fixings, and high quality island entertainment. We've seen dozens of shows in Fiji, the Hawaiian and Cook Islands.  We were surprisingly pleased with the high quality of this show.  It is respectful and lively, an authentic homage to the Pacific Islanders and their colorful songs, dances and religion.

FOR YEARS, we've enjoyed  

Fort Lauderdale's Water Taxi
can take you many places.

Beautiful waterfront homes are part of the
allure of a water taxi ride. Jungle Queen
also offers a waterways tour with options.

Fort Lauderdale's unique Water Taxi system which offers 20 stops ranging from high-end shopping areas to seafood  restaurants, a lovely state park and a variety of bars, museums, galleries and historic sites. It's a lovely way to transit a beautiful city whether you're looking for a beverage at  Margaritaville, a souvenir to take home or a stroll along the gorgeous winding Riverwalk.  We always enjoy this easy going and relaxed mode of revisiting the highlights of the city.

Aboard both water taxi and Jungle Queen, one may contemplate the city's history, beauty and attractions while watching its vibrant water life pass by.

junglequeen.com

watertaxi.com

 ************************************************************************* 

Bruce Keller is "no hands" but Cookie Meyers isn't quite ready for that.
Join the couple next week for a Segway adventure in Fort Lauderdale.

NEXT UP:  Now that we've journeyed around Fort Lauderdale by water, we explore this inviting Florida city by land.  Not just any land transport, but a Segway tour! If you've been afraid to try a Segway, you're not alone. But our chief writer and editor, Christene "Cookie" Meyers, is a reformed Segway coward and born again Segway enthusiast, thanks to a wonderful guide and a beautiful venue. Enjoy Fort Lauderdale's pleasures on land next time, remembering to explore, learn and live and catch us weekly for a fresh spin on travel, performance, art, family, nature and more:

www.whereiscookie.com 

Curtain going up on theater bonanza! Support your local playhouses!

FABULOUS FARE ON THE BOARDS IN SAN DIEGO AREA AND IN YOUR COMMUNITY

SPRING BONANZA IN SAN DIEGO 

Waiting for the house lights to dim, top and above,
are Bruce Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers
For them, theater is a necessary thrill to feed their
souls. Support live theater, wherever you are. There
is nothing like the connection live performance offers.

STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS

PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER

IF YOU LOVE theater as much as we do, you consider it not a frill or extra, but a necessity.

Please consider supporting yours -- wherever you are in the U.S., or the world.  Volunteers are always needed, especially as ushers. And there's a perk. You'll receive tickets to shows if you contribute  time and talent.

We visit many San Diego and Los Angeles area theaters on a regular basis, proud that Southern California is blessed to have an abundance of  enchanting theater venues. As grateful members of the audience we give thanks for talented actors, directors, designers, technicians, marketing pros and volunteers whose talents feed our artistic appetite. Each year we happily offer a spring roundup of "the best on the boards" in theater loving San Diego.  We urge our friends around the U.S. and world, to support local theater. For us, it's a lifeline, not an extra.

North Coast Repertory Theatre never fails to
entertain, provoke, amuse, in Solana Beach. 

NORTH COAST REPERTORY THEATRE: With imaginative sell-out performances, "What the Constitution Means to Me" is the latest offering, through March 23. The Pulitzer Prize finalist promises  "an emotionally charged, thought provoking theatrical experience" exploring the U.S. Constitution's significance in contemporary America with wit and political insight. The intimate house has no bad seats for feasting on an ambitious mix of musicals, world premier dramas, comedies and classics.  The dedication, energy and creative spin of visionary artistic director David Ellenstein satisfy older patrons while drawing enthusiasm from new, more demanding younger crowds. In spring, watch for "Peril in the Alps" a world premier mystery romp; "Birthday Candles" celebrating one woman's birthdays through the decades in June, and "A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder in July-August.  Ellenstein and company give imagination a whirl with a satisfying blend of both fresh and familiar work, always enjoyable. northcoastrep.org   

Ground-breaking at Cygnet's new digs in Liberty
Station. Three fine productions cap Cygnet's
tenure in Old Town, before the summer move.

 CYGNET THEATRE.  Capping last year's successes, Cygnet Theatre presents its final season in Old Town before moving to its new home at the Joan and Irwin Jacobs Performing Arts Center at Liberty Station.  Under the guiding force of artistic director Sean Murray, "The Joan" will launch its 21st season in September in a new, contemporary 289-seat proscenium theater and a 150-seat flexible studio space. Murray, also a versatile actor (from "My Fair Lady" to "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" and as an endearing Scrooge in "A Christmas Carol") caps the 2024-25 season in Old Town directing a first-rate piece of writing flawlessly acted. "Other Desert Cities" is up through March 2, a searingly complex family story with both humor and pathos. Then a fresh, fierce comedy, "The Hot Wing King," April 9-May 2 (sounds delicious, as a group of friends prepare their entry for a culinary contest.) Finally, that classic musical theater war horse "Oklahoma" offers venerable musical comedy, June 11-July 20.

www.cygnettheatre.com

  

''Once" celebrates the music of Ireland
with a spirited band, engaging story and top
singers --just in time for St. Patrick's Day!

LAMB'S PLAYERS THEATRE:   Lamb's Players can be relied upon for polish and spirit in spades with top actors, singers and musicians. "Once" reinforces Lamb's reputation for excellence in a return engagement of an award winner, in time for St. Patrick's Day. It began as a 2007 movie, then the lively musical was a Tony winner on Broadway before winning raves in San Diego 7 years ago. The show is artfully staged by Lamb's artistic director Robert Smyth with a returning crack cast of fabulous musicians and singers who move 

"Once" is on tap at
Lamb's Players. 

gracefully about the pub setting. This first-rate production boasts terrific leads and support, including Smyth's wife, Deborah Gilmour Smyth, who sets the high energy and polished tone. Watch for her in Horton Foote's Tony winning "The Trip to Bountiful" April 15-June 1, followed by a musical celebrating the '70s this, and G.B. Shaw's classic "Arms and the Man," next fall.  It's a lovely drive to Coronado, across the bridge from downtown San Diego.  Plenty of restaurant choices, too, to extend the fun.  lambsplayers.org

Leigh Scarritt, Rachel
 VanWormer captivated us
in "The Half-Life of Marie
Curie," at New Village Arts.

New Village Arts also produces unique cabaret
shows, including "Love, Linda" which told the
story of Mrs. Cole Porter in a pitch-perfect and
delightful performance by Sandra Ochoa Rice.
The show features many of Porter's masterpieces
dazzlingly delivered with a three-piece band.

NEW VILLAGE ARTS.  This cozy 99-seat theater in Carlsbad opened its spring season with a bang. Theater lovers raved about the captivating production of "The Half-Life of Marie Curie" which just ended a brilliant run. Two accomplished actors cast a spell: Rachael VanWormer and Leigh Scarritt as Madame Curie and fellow brilliant scientist, Hertha Ayrton. Typical of New Village productions, it featured artful lighting, an eye-catching set design and mesmerizing talent.  The ambitious Carlsbad venue produces year-round musical events, cabaret and concert readings of Broadway musicals. Up next is "La Havana Madrid," March 21-April 27,  about Chicago’s legendary nightclub where newly arrived Latino immigrants dine, dance and find community.   newvillagearts.org

Diversionary Theatre is always a 
treat, even in the rain. Its productions
appeal and are inclusive, original.

 
 

DIVERSIONARY THEATRE. The current season at our nation's third oldest LGBTQ theater includes "We Are Continuous," through March 9, a lyrical work about love and the ability to change by acclaimed playwright Harrison David Rivers.  Diversionary is a small, mind-challenging venue with a lovely, welcoming theater and impressive education outreach.  It opened season 39 in its recently renovated space, including a cozy cabaret with drinks and live queer-themed entertainment. An inclusive, enterprising playbill espouses love, honesty, humor and hope with a mission to inspire and celebrate diverse LGBTQIA stories. Always an enriching visit.  diversionary.org

MOXIE THEATRE: Watch this ground-breaking company,  known for its generosity to students, and for its diverse repertoire of female focused work. Some of the region's best actors have graced Moxie's stage where each season presents surprises and delights. "Man and Moon" is typical fare, featuring the story of a transitioning man, Aaron, and Luna, a young girl with a passion for outer space. Depend on Moxie for imaginative breaking of stereotypes. moxietheatre.com

A series of tributes headline at The Welk, where
people may also enjoy the attractive grounds.

THEATRE AT THE WELK. The beautifully designed theater, at 8860 Lawrence Welk Drive in Escondido, presents an uplifting mix of concerts, musicals and tributes. "Gypsy Dreams" is a tribute to Fleetwood Mac Feb. 19, followed by "A Rockin' Tribute to the King," Wednesdays March 5-26, with a band on stage backing award winning singer-actor Scot Bruce as a convincing Elvis. "Fortunate Son," a Creedence Clearwater tribute, follows on Wednesdays in April. "FABBA" is an Abba tribute in May and June, and popular performer Jason Lohrke returns with his acclaimed Neil Diamond tribute in July. welkresorts.com

David McBean, front,
and Jason Maddy as
"True West" brothers. 

ROUSTABOUTS THEATRE CO.: This talented, daring company  features some of San Diego's finest actors in a range of funny, touching and acerbic pieces.   Actor Phil Johnson is at the helm as company co-founder. He was brilliant in a rousing one-man show, "A Jewish Joke," which went on to play New York.  His enterprise engineers comedy nights and other delights, with talented local casts. Sam Shepard’s searing "True West" is up next, a story of sibling rivalry between estranged brothers Austin and Lee, who have reconnected. It is set in in the foothills of California's San Gabriel Valley at their mother's home.  The production runs at Diversionary Theatre March 27-April 13. Rely on Johnson and company for originality, always pushing the entertainment envelope. theroustabouts.org

SCRIPPS RANCH THEATRE. Creative use of space on the campus of Alliant International University provides a welcoming, intimate forum for another challenging season. "White" is next up, billed as "a comedic story that explores privilege in the art world." The production promises twists and surprises, subverting expectations as it illuminates contemporary culture. The run extends through March 9. Scripps celebrates the unusual, with an always ambitious season.  scrippsranchtheatre.org

                                                                         

La JOLLA

 PLAYHOUSE. Continuing this venerable, top drawer theater's dedication to the unique, La Jolla Playhouse would make founder Gregory Peck proud with its 2025-26 season including an intriguing world premier, "Three Summers of Lincoln." 

Award winning La Jolla Playhouse offers another world premier.
"Three Summers of Lincoln" features gospel, R&B and more. 

 It features an original score blending gospel, R&B, and more with Christopher Ashley at the helm as artistic director. Under his guidance, the award winning playhouse took home a Tony for "Far From Away," another world premier which debuted in La Jolla and went on to Broadway. He is proud of the 2025 Without Walls ("WOW") Festival set for April 24-27, promising immersive and site-inspired work. Presented in partnership with the UC San Diego, the WOW Festival features four action-packed days of theater, dance, music, puppetry, spectacle events and more.   lajollaplayhouse.org

SAN DIEGO MUSICAL THEATRE:  Musicals reign at this venue. "Hello, Dolly!" is on the boards through March 9. We've seen spirited shows here, including "Forever Plaid" and "Little Shop of Horrors" -- an admirable mix of musicals, including "In the Heights," which introduced Lin-Manuel Miranda to the world.  SDMT's lively  popular grassroots enterprise made its name with romantic comedy and trusted musical theater works, thanks to musical-loving founders Gary and Erin Lewis who launched the endeavor in 2006. It has a loyal following for its varied repertoire. sdmt.org 

TRINITY THEATRE CO:  This company's goal is "to unify friends, family, and community." TTC believes all people wishing to participate in the performing arts should have a venue in which to inspire and be inspired. Shows blend the talents of seasoned performers and spirited newcomers, in both performance and technical aspects of theater.  "The Seussification of Romeo and Juliet!" just wrapped, a lively adaptation of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet told in a whimsical, Seussian style. (Spoiler alert: no one died.) Like Trinity's mission, it mixed rhyme and rhythm with playful characters, and vibrant storytelling, aimed at involving young people. Trinity works with schools to encourage theater arts education and foster community involvement, celebrating the arts for performers and patrons alike. trinityttc.org 

WITH THIS BOUNTY,  spring theater is in full flower in southern California with March celebrations and discounts during San Diego Theater Month with discounted tickets at more than 30 venues. Check for similar festivals in your town and consider supporting your local theater, symphony, chorale and band. Be generous with buskers. And remember: a pair of tickets to a play, musical or concert makes an excellent gift.

www.sandiegotheatremonth.com

Christene "Cookie" Meyers and Bruce Keller on
 the trail of waterborne fun, from water taxis to
cruising. We visit Fort Lauderdale on land and
water, admire artists in Spain, explore Central Park
in New York and pay our respects to both
man made beauty and the art of nature.
 

FUN ON THE RUN: 

In the next few weeks, we offer a

lively mix of fun pieces, from the waters of Fort Lauderdale to the art museums of northern Spain and Barcelona. We offer practical pointers on finding a bathroom in Europe and elsewhere abroad, and we visit  spectacular attractions in New York City, including Central Park, the High Line and the world renowned Museum of Modern Art.  Remember to explore, learn and live and catch us weekly for a fresh spin on nature, performance, travel, family and more: www.whereiscookie.com