The Hopeful Traveler

Love Park aka JFK Plaza

2011-10-22T10:28:00.000-10:00

One last full day in Philadelphia takes me along Benjamin Franklin Parkway starting with JFK Plaza better known as LOVE Park for the iconic sculpture designed by Robert Indiana. Thought park was built in 1965 the sculpture was not added to plaza until 1976 for the celebration of the United States Bicentennial.

The plaza is named for John F. Kennedy who served as President of the United States from 1961 until his assassination in 1963. The plaza itself originally served as a terminus for the parkway and covers an underground parking garage.

The Grandeur of Philadelphia City Hall

2011-10-22T10:12:00.032-10:00

(photos except where noted: TheHopefulTraveler)

Few would argue that Philadelphia City Hall is the mostelaborate building in the state. Like a French chateau transplanted to America,it’s full beauty can be appreciated from down one of the several streets thatintersect around the building or up close where one fully realizes that it rises548 feet above the ground.

Constructed from 1871 until 1901, it the largest municipal buildingsin the U.S. with over 700 rooms on nine floors housing three branches ofgovernment: executive (mayor’s office), legislative (city council) and judicial(civil court).

On top of the building stands a 37 feet tall bronze statueof city founder William Penn and is the tallest on top of any building in theworld. Up until 1987 the building itself maintained the distinction as thetallest building in Philadelphia due to an informal gentlemen’s agreement thatforbade any structure higher than the statue of Penn. The construction of OneLiberty Place nearby ended the agreement.

Trying to get the massive building in one photo is quite aneffort and it is when many visitors finally realize the breadth and size of theornate building. There is a courtyard that is equally decorative and anobservation deck that takes guest to just below the base of Penn’s statue.Reference photos are included below since both were closed on this Saturdaymorning.

Visit phila.gov for more information. Tour informationcenter is open Mon-Fri 9:30am-4:30pm. Free tours inside City Hall are Mon-Fri at12:30pm and begin at the information center and lasts approximately 90 minutesto 2 hours. Tower tours offered 9:30am-4:15pm. Timed tickets available at theinformation center.

City Hall Courtyard (photo: kevinwburkett/flickr)

Observation Deck (photo: skyscraperpage.com)

One of several grand staircases inside City Hall.
(photo: flickr4jazz/flickr)

Termini Brothers Bakery at Reading Terminal Market

2011-10-22T09:46:00.048-10:00

It's a Sunday morning and I really should a healthy breakfast. It's also my last day in the Philadelphia so this one time I'll have something sweet from Termini Brothers Bakery. Once at their glass display case, it's not surprised to be in a state of indecision. Having a sweet tooth, everything looks yummy.

They had something with a banana in it so that's kind of eating healthy. But its wrapped in custard and a crisp chocolate coating. A photograph of the goody is below and I'll leave it at that. The sugar rush and a cup of coffee and my day was jump started. I've read that their signature items of cannoli, slogliatelle and fig bars are recommended.

Although they have gift tins on display, these must be special ordered at least one day in advance. But boxes of biscotti and cookies ($20; pictured above) were available and I picked one up to bring back home.

Visit termini.com for more information, additional locations and mail order service. The Reading Terminal location is open Mon-Sat 9am-6pm; Sun 9am-5pm.

Reading Terminal Market Where Eating & Visiting is a Treat

2011-10-22T09:35:00.034-10:00

(photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

Considered one of America’s best public markets, the Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia which has origins going back to 1859 occupies aformer train shed in the heart of the city and features Pennsylvania Dutchspecialties along with cheesesteaks and soft pretzels among its more than 80restaurants, shops and farm stands. Vendors sell a variety of productsincluding handmade soaps, cookbooks and kitchen wares.

The lack of chain restaurants and eateries and availabilityof quality goods make this one of the most unique diversions for visitors andresidents alike. It’s location adjacent to several hotels make it popular withguests at these properties.

Walk the aisles and get lost among the aromas and delectabledisplays and you may find yourself in a state of indecision. So why not comeback to this lively place if you’re in the city more than one day. If you’renot looking for a meal right away, buy something to take away or bring as giftback home. You’ll be sure to find something good and meet some of the nicestvendors ever. If you're a new visitor to the city, the market also has a information desk near the 12th and Filbert Street entrance.

There is seating available at some merchants but the market has dedicated areas for chairs and tables. But when it gets busy you may find yourself out of luck in finding an empty one.

There are about a dozen Pennsylvania Dutch merchants and besure to plan your visit carefully since most of them are only open Wednesdaythrough Saturday. The market is generally open Mon-Sat 8am-6pm and Sun 9am-5pm.Visit readingterminalmarket.org for more information.

Click on the links below to learn more about these ReadingTerminal Market Vendors.

Beck’s Cajun Café

Miller’s Twist

Termini Brothers Bakery

By George! Pizza, Pasta & Cheesesteak

AJ Pickle Patch

Return to 'Aspects of Love' at the Walnut Street Theatre

2011-10-21T23:19:00.069-10:00

Yesterday I posted a review of 'Aspects of Love' at the Walnut Street Theatre. As readers of this blog have noted I normally see the stage productions of Andrew Lloyd Webber musicals twice. Live theatre is of the moment and often upon repeat viewing one can see and hear more detail that was missed in a prior viewing. I have to admit that a repeat viewing of the 2000 Broadway revival of of Lloyd Webber's 'Jesus Christ Superstar' was a mistake. It poorly conceived and directed.

But it's no surprise that I return to see 'Aspects of Love' again. The fact that the musical is rarely produced and because of the subject matter, I feel it would not see the light of day in any theater company in Hawaii and so I must travel abroad when it is presented. It may be partially that it took me almost twenty years until I finally saw a stage production and I am just trying to get my fill not knowing when I may be able see it again.

One benefit of returning to the show is to see the second of two young actresses playing the younger version of Jenny. Obviously the talent pool in Philadelphia is wide as Arin Edelstein in the role also delivered a seasoned performance.

It's my thing and upon a second viewing I can admire again the talent and designs that I enjoyed the first time. But it is the music that brings me back. It is sung-through and it is romantic music. Though many would argue regarding the quality of the story and characters, the show has many admirers. I am among the latter and it marked a great end to a great day in Philadelphia.

This post includes photos of the Walnut Street Theatre marquee and other advertising for 'Aspects of Love' which closes this Sunday on October 23rd. The production stars Jennifer Hope Wills (Rose Vibert) Charles Hagerty (Alex Dillingham), Paul Schoeffler (Geroge Dillingham), Danielle G. Herbert (Giulietta Trapani), Laurent Giroux (Marcel Richard); Jenna Brooke Scannelli (Jenny Dillingham) and Arin Edelstein and Claire Norden (alternating the role of Young Jenny). The director is Bruce Lumpkin.

The Venue: Walnut Street Theatre in Falls for 'Aspects of Love'

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The Walnut Street Theatre is a designated National Historical Landmark.

Main entrance to the theatre and box office.

Plaque just outside of the main entrance.
(photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

Tonight I return to the Walnut Street Theatre to take in a second performance of their production of 'Aspects of Love.' It's always interesting to visit another theatre company outside of New York, London or my home city of Honolulu. Although one would compare their history, venue and productions, one can also see how each theater is surviving in these tough economic times.

The venue was opened in 1809 for use by an equestrian circus. It was not until 1812 that the building was converted to a legitimate theatre. The Walnut Street Theatre name was not used until 1820. Today it is the oldest continuously operating theatre in the United States.

The Walnut Street Company presents five plays from September to June with familiar titles while experimental and newer works play in the smaller studio spaces that adjoins the mainstage. Their current mainstage season, their 203rd, opens with 'Aspects of Love.' The season continues with 'The King and I,' 'Mousetrap,' 'God of Carnage' and 'Buddy.' The Walnut boasts one of the the largest subscription base in the world at over 50,000.

The mainstage seats 1,052 on two levels in a standard center seating section with a left and right seating sections. Two center aisles and two side aisles are accessed from separate doors at the rear of the auditorium. Tickets indicate which door to enter. The balcony level is reached through stairs at each side of the lobby to a mezzanine lobby. The wide auditorium and stage ensures that sightlines are generally good from almost every seat. Again I generally avoid any seats beneath the balcony because I just find it distracting when I can't see the top if the proscenium. It's like my view is being cut in half.

The friendly box office staff is able to assist patrons with ticket arrangements even during performances. Entry to the theatre near the box office leads to a gift shop selling show souvenirs, gifts and jewelry. Stairs downstairs leads to Barrymore's Cafe, a full bar serving snacks, coffee and deserts. A counter along the back wall offers lots of seating. Sprinkled throughout all three levels of the lobby are artifacts (photos, playbills, posters) of productions presented at the Walnut.

Visit walnutstreettheatre.org for more information and to purchase tickets online. Box office hours: Mon 10am-6pm; Tues-Sat 10am-6pm on non performance dates and 10am to showtime on performance dates; Sundays closed on non-performance dates and 12pm to showtime on performance dates.

Box office

Above and below: Orchestra level lobby. The marble statue depicts
Edward Forrest, the first American stage star.

Behind the statue is stairs leading to the mezzanine level.

Barrymore's Cafe

This metal sign, located just outside the theatre, designates the
historical importance of "The Walnut."

Morimoto Philadelphia: No Reservations, Dinner for One

2011-10-21T19:10:00.112-10:00

The sleek exterior of Morimoto on Chestnut Street.
(photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

One of the things I learned as a solo diner when traveling is to eat dinner early. You beat the crowds, service is often quicker and a table can often be had without a reservation. I took my chance with Morimoto in Philadelphia and arrived at the restaurant shortly after it opened at 5pm on this Saturday night. With no problem I got a table for one.

Since I had not eaten lunch I was famished by 5pm. So almost anything on the menu looked delectable. To start, a glass of choya umeshu (plum sake, $12) flavored with ume fruit is interesting sweet and tart without being cloyingly so. Paired with Fuji sill water ($6) would keep me hydrated and prevent me from sipping my drink in a minute.

As an appetizer the whitefish carpaccio ($16) drizzled with yuzu soy and hot oil packs a fresh full taste. I saw the surf & turf on the menu at the Hawaii location and chose to try it this evening. Comprised of Kobe sirloin and hamachi ($39), it is pretty good. The beef was perfectly cooked and combined with the herbed potatoes was a hearty compliment to the elegant ribbons of fish mixed tableside into an avocado salad.

The black sesame moussecake ($10; flourless cake, chocolate ganache and sesame mousse with raspberry sauce) paired with coffee ($3.50) served as the finale for this dinner. The beautiful prepared deceptive slice made for a rich desert. Although delicious the chocolate was more evident than any sesame flavor.

My server Jacob was attentive without being distracting about it; nor I was rushed. Each course of my meal was delivered in good time after the previous one. I appreciate a restaurant that doesn't give me the chance to feel idle. The striking but comfortable design of the interior mixes colors and glass. Tables along the walls in the are reserved for up to two persons. Tables that run in the center seats small parties.

Visit morimotorestaurant.com for more information. Hours: Mon-Fri 11:30am-2pm; Dinner Sun-Wed 5pm-10pm; Thu 5pm-11pm; Fri-Sat 5pm-Midnight. Location: 723 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia PA 19106.

The modern interior (above and below) glows in different colors. The photo
above was taken from my table.

The view after entering the restaurant.

A unique lamp served as the table centerpiece.

Whitefish carpaccio

Morimoto surf and turf: Kobe sirloin and hamachi ribbons with
herbed potatoes.

Black sesame moussecake paired with coffee.

Benjamin Franklin's Grave at Christ Church Burial Ground

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Plaque near the entrance to Christ Church Burial Ground.

Benjamin Franklin's grave viewed through the iron rails of Christ Church
Burial Ground. Visitors leave pennies on the grave. (photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

On two acres at the corner of Arch Street and 5th Street in Philadelphia is Christ Church Burial Ground. The Colonial and Revolutionary-era graveyard with over 1,400 markers is the final resting place for Benjamin Franklin and his wife. The iron rails by his grave were added at the request of Franklin's descendants so one can still view the gravesite when the burial ground is closed. Christ Church (located at 2nd Street) is an Anglian church founded 1695. The burial ground was not begun until 1719.

Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790) was one of the founding fathers of the United States. He was an author, printer, politician, inventor and scientist among his many endeavors.

Visit christchurchphila.org for more information. The Burial Ground is open March-December. Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-4pm; Sun 12pm-4pm. Admission: $2 adults; $1 students. Guided tours available for an additional fee of $3 for adults and $1 for students. Tours given from 11am-3:30pm.

After a day of sightseeing, I choose not to venture into the burial ground and instead headed back to my hotel for some rest before heading out for dinner and to attend a theatre performance. Besides I wanted to walk back to my hotel and wanted to do it at a leisurely pace.

Christ Church Burial Grounds

Philadelphia Bourse: Food & Shopping Along The Mall

2011-10-21T14:45:00.000-10:00

(photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

As I walked to see another attraction in Independence Historical National Park, I was caught by the striking red terra cotta building called the Philadelphia Bourse that was along the way. Evidently if you're hungry or just in need of something to drink this is the place to go. Souvenir shops also line the halls to help lighten your wallet.

The building was completed in 1895 to serve as a commodities exchange ("bourse" is another word exchange). It is one of the first steel-framed buildings constructed but it is its distinctive look of redstone, brick and terra cotta that is quite attractive. Once the exchange closed in the 1960s, the building served as an office building. In 1979 it was renovated to include upscale retail space on the ground level. This retail use was not successful and today the merchants are geared toward tourists. The upper levels is still used for office use and is only accessed by authorized persons.

Visit bourse-pa.com for more info. The building is located across Independence Mall from the Liberty Bell Center on 5th Street between Market and Chestnut Streets. Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-6pm (year round except March to November on Sundays when hours run 11am-5pm).

Liberty Bell Center: Viewing an Icon of America

2011-10-21T14:24:00.000-10:00

Above are two view of the Liberty Bell.

The Liberty Bell is the focus of this center that stretches along one side of an entire city block. The Liberty Bell Center, completed in 2003, also includes an exhibit focusing on the bell's origins and role as as icon of freedom.

The bell was cast in London, England in 1752 with the lettering "Proclaim LIBERTY throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof." After arriving in Philadelphia it cracked when it was first rung and was recast twice. By 1846 the thin crack began to affect the bell's sound when it rang for George Washington's birthday celebration. It cracked again and has not been rung since.

The composition of the bell is copper, tin and small amounts of lead, zinc, arsenic, gold and silver. It weighs about 2000 pounds.

The line for entry into the center can be long but it moves swiftly. The exhibit itself allows for time to leisurely learn about the bell. It's once you reach the the Liberty Bell itself is where the crowds pile up. It's only late October so I can only imagine how the National Park Rangers manages the crowds in summer.

You have to be quick if you want a chance for a clear view or photo of the bell. The two photos above were quickly taken in between people switching places to have their photo taken with the bell. For this reason it is really difficult to admire this historical icon. Visit nps.gov for more information; hours vary.

This piece in the exhibit has the word "liberty" written in various languages.

The Liberty Bell Center opened in 2003.

The center is simply designed with a long hallway with curving walls
on one side and on the other are various displays about the history and
icon status of the Liberty Bell on the other side.

Entrance to the Liberty Bell Center. The line for entry winds to the left
of the main doors and along the building's east side.

The one story building at left along Independence Mall is the Liberty
Bell Center. The line for entry forms along this side of the building.

Congress Hall Beside Independence Hall

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Congress Hall sits at the cover of Chestnut and 6th Street within the
block that includes Independence Hall.

Senate Chamber on the second floor.

House of Representatives Chamber on the first floor.
(photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

On the west side of Independence Hall is Congress Hall which served as the meeting place of the U.S. Congress from 1790-1800. The House of Representatives met on the ground floor and the Senate met on the second level. The second level includes various congressional offices and meeting rooms.

Historic events at Congress Hall include the presidential inaugurations of George Washington and John Adams. After congress was moved to Washington, D.C. the building was used by Federal and lower courts. Today the building is lovingly restored to the period of time when it was the U.S. Capitol. Sitting in the House chambers, one can only imagine what it was like be in this room over 200 years ago. I heard someone remark about what they did for air conditioning on hot summer days. After hearing that I wondered too.

Admission to Congress Hall is free and entry is included with your timed Independence Hall ticket. Admittance times varies during the day. Visitors are seated in the House chambers while a ranger gives an introduction to the building and answers questions. Exploring the remainder of the hall if a self-guided tour. Visit nps.gov for more information.

The landing at the top of the stairwell gives a view of 6th Street.
The building at right is the Liberty Bell Center.

Above photos show some of the various offices and meeting rooms
on the second floor of Congress Hall.

Independence Hall Tower Renovation

2011-10-21T13:35:00.002-10:00

(photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

Preservation of Independence Hall Tower should not come as a surprise to visitors. It may be a slight disappointment for the visitor but around the world such important places are being restored to preserve them for generations.

The work is covered behind a decorative scrim with a rendering of Independence Hall Tower so at least from the view and photographs aren't totally at a lost. Other projects have not been has thoughtful. The $4.4 million project that started in July 2010 is expected to be completed in early 2012. More info about the restoration at nps.gov.

Great Essentials Exhibit at Independence Hall

2011-10-21T13:25:00.001-10:00

(photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

In the west wing of Independence Hall is the Great Essentials Exhibit which has surviving copies of the Declaration of Independence, Constitution of the United States and Articles of Confederation on display. A silver inkstand (pictured below) on display was used during the signing of the Declaration and Constitution.

It's a simply designed but important exhibit that translates the power of words to express ideas which has steered the United States for over 200 years. Great Essentials is in reference to written words of John Adams, second U.S. president.

Entry to Great Essentials is included in the free ticket to Independence Hall. Because of the fragile nature of the documents, the room is very dimly lit and flash photography is discouraged. Visit nps.gov for more information.

Images from a Visit to Independence Hall Part 2

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The north side of Independence Hall. The hall is a red brick building designed
in the Georgian Style and built between 1732 and 1743. It housed the government
of Pennsylvania until 1799.
(photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

This post continues with images of Independence Hall. See the previous post or click HERE for part 1. After passing through security, be sure you line up (look for the park ranger at the front of the line). The ranger will lead visitors to room to view a short film about the historic site and field any questions. The guided tour continues into the Assembly Hall and the Supreme Court Room.

Then its a short trip up the tower stairwell to the Long Gallery. The tour ends here and visitors are free to roam the remainder of the complex which includes Great Essentials, which is self guided, in the West Wing and Congress Hall, where a brief introduction by a guide is made and then guests are free to explore both levels. Great Essentials have surviving documents including the Declaration of Independence on display. Congress Hall houses the meeting place for the Senate and House of Representatives. A visit to Great Essentials and Congress Hall are covered in separate posts.

Visiting the entire Independence Hall complex can be completed in just about an hour. Though the Independence Tower was under restoration work, it did not detract from the awe of seeing this American historical attraction.

A screen with a rendering of Independence Tower obscures the restoration
work ongoing beneath it. This is a view from the south side of
Independence Hall. The statue is of John Barry (1745-1803) who was
an officer in the Continental Navy during the Revolutionary War. He
is credited as "The Father of the American Navy".

The north side of Independence Hall inside the security fence.

From the courtyard on the south side of the building one can see the
buildings of Independence Hall in contrast to nearby structures.

Though there are clocks on each side of the tower, another set of clocks
hang on the east and west side of the second level of Independence Hall.

The smaller wing at left houses Great Essentials where surviving historic
documents are on view.

The view of Independence Hall from Independence Mall. The highest
point of the steeple reaches 168 feet.

Images from a Visit to Independence Hall Part 1

2011-10-21T13:01:00.050-10:00

Independence Hall. The tower is obscured due to a restoration project.
The building was completed in 1753 for the legislature of the
Province of Philadelphia.
(photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

Finally my 12 noon timed ticket entry to tour Independence Hall arrives. I'm actually a bit early and after passing through security (bags and jackets are inspected) a park ranger allows me to join the prior group of ticket holders. Tickets are free and must be obtained at the Independence Hall Visitor Center. This is important as the the center is two blocks north of Independence Hall.

I'm going to try something different and reveal this visit of Independence Hall through photos and captions. There is so much history behind the building that there is far too much to write about for a single post or even two.

Visit nps.gov for more information about the building. Click HERE to learn about the current restoration of the Independence Hall Tower. The attraction is open daily from 9am-5pm. Visit recreation.gov for advance ticket reservations which can be booked one year in advance; visit the Independence Visitor Center which opens at 8:30am and offers tickets with a timed entry on a first come, first served basis. Tickets are required except for January and February. See the next post or click HERE for part 2 of this post "Images from a Visit to Independence Hall".

Assembly Hall where the U.S. Declaration of Independence and
Constitution was drafted and signed in 1776.

Supreme Court Room. The Assembly Hall and this room occupy the
ground floor of the Independence Hall.

Above four photos feature the Tower Stairwell. It leads to the Long Gallery,
a committee room and the former Governor's office. Access to the
bell tower is not open to the public.

The Long Gallery (pictured above and below): The room was used for
celebrations, concerts, dances and lectures in the 18th century. From
1777-1778, American prisoners of war were housed in this room during
the British occupation of the city. This room was the site of the a U.S.
District Court in the 1840s and 1850s. The court ruled on cases dealing with
Fugitive Slave Act.

Governor's Council Chamber on the second floor: The provincial council
was the highest legislative body in the Colony until 1776 when the
authority was vested in the Supreme Executive Council over which
Benjamin Franklin presided.

Independence Mall (pictured above and below): View from the Long
Gallery of Independence Hall gives visitors a view across the length of
the mall all the way to the National Constitution Center. The photo above
shows the Liberty Bell Center at left.

Merchants' Exchange Building (also commonly known as the Philadelphia Exchange)

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East side of the Merchant's Exchange Building.
(photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

I would have time to take in one more attraction before my timed ticket entry into Independence Hall. Looking at the handy map from the Independence Visitor Center I see that that Merchants' Exchange Building is near to the Second Bank of the United States.

The building is another monumental piece in the style of Greek revival by architect William Strickland, who also designed the Second Bank building. There is no attraction in the building as today it serves as the Philadelphia headquarters for the National Park Service but it worth a stop to admire the striking building. There is a small, and I mean very small, public exhibit just inside the first floor entrance. The east side of the building is the most striking and beautiful feature. The street is laid with cobblestones which makes one wonder how anyone traveled on such a road. Best you stick to the smooth paths.

It was built between 18332 and 1834 as the Merchants' Exchange Building and in 1875 replaced by the Philadelphia Stock Exchange and various other purposes before the NPS acquired and restored the building in 1952. Visit nps.gov for more information.

The west side facade of the building.

Portrait Gallery in the Second Bank of the United States

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Portrait of George Washington by Rembrandt Peale (1848).

The facade of the Second Bank of the United States.
(photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

More in line with the architecture of buildings in Washington, D.C, the Second Bank of the United States is also designed in Greek revival style. I still had some time to spare before my timed entry to tour of Independence Hall so I opted to see more sites in the Independence National Historic District.

The building was constructed between 1819 and 1824 and housed the Second Bank of the United States which eventually went bankrupt in 1841. From 1845 to 1935 the building served as the Philadelphia Customs House and today houses the Portrait Gallery.

The "People of Independence" exhibit in the gallery includes 185 paintings of Colonial and Federal leaders, military officers, explorers and scientists. For me the real treat was admiring the architecture of the building inside and out. However the artwork especially those of George Washington obviously demanded extra attention.

More info at nps.gov. The Second Bank of the United States is located on Chestnut Street one block east of Independence Hall. Hours: Wed-Sun 11am-5pm.

The exhibit is intimate and more accessible due to the select number of
artwork on display.

A room at the rear of gallery appears to be out of different century. It
houses portraits of inventors and scientists.

Another view of the facade.

Washington Square & The Tom of the Unknown Soldier

2011-10-21T11:10:00.116-10:00

Views within Washington Square.
(photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

Just across the southwest corner of Independence Hall is Washington Square Park wherein is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Managed by the National Park Service it is another attraction in the Independence National Historical Park.

Learning about the history of this 6.5 acres of land, the square is more of a memorial park. The square was used to bury the poor and used by the African American community to bury their members in the 18th century. Citizens and troops from the Colonial army who perished in the Revolutionary War are also buried here. Victims of the city's yellow fever outbreak after the Revolutionary War were interred here.

The 19th century brought about improvements. Walks, benches, lamps and an ornamental fence were added to the park as an affluent and fashionable neighborhood moved in around it. Originally called Southeast Square, the park was renamed in tribute to George Washington. Today the centerpiece of the square is a memorial to Washington and unknown soldiers of the American Revolution.

The shaded park is quiet this Friday morning fitting its solemn past. But in warmer months the park is probably bustling with residents and visitors enjoying its open spaces.

Located near the northeast entrance is Philadelphia's Moon Tree. The seed of a sycamore tree was carried on one of the Apollo missions and planted in 1975. Since taking ownership of the park from the City of Philadelphia, the NPS has cared for the tree. There are now plans to replace the ailing tree with a clone grown by the University of Pennsylvania.

Visit nps.gov for more information about Washington Square Park and the Tomb of the Unknown Solider.

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and memorial statue of George Washington.

State and colonial flags lead to the Tomb of the Unknown Solider.

Plaque at Moon Tree.
(photo: wallyg/flickr)

Independence National Historical Park

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Independence Mall facing south. Independence Mall is in the distance
and building at right houses the Liberty Bell.

Gardens with trees, flowering bushes and trees along the east perimeter
of Independence Mall. (photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

Independence National Historical Park covers over 55 acres on 20 city blocks within Philadelphia and is nicknamed "America's most historic square mile" due to the many important sites associated with the establishment of the United States within its borders.

The National Park Service, which administers the park, lists over thirty sites to explore within its boundaries. Many visitors like myself would have to pare down this list to a number that will fit within the time of a stay in the city.

The primary attractions are Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were adopted, and the Liberty Bell. Other points of interest include National Constitution Center (not operated by the NPS), President's House Site (the first "White House"), Washington Square (site of Tomb of the Unknown Solider), Second Bank of the United States (housing the Portrait Gallery) and Merchant's Exchange Building.

The broad plaza bookended by Independence Hall in the South and the National Constitution Center on the north with the Independence Visitor Center and Liberty Bell Center in between is Independence Mall. The mall was created in the 1950s to bring more open space to this historic district of the Philadelphia.

Along the east perimeter of the mall is a park like area complete with trees, bushes and benches. During this time in October, it is still pretty with with leaves and flowers and provides a quiet respite from the large tourist crowds visiting the area sites. Visit nps.gov for a list of all the historical attractions and additional information.

Trees at the Liberty Bell Center

Other buildings in the are blend in with the historical sites of the
Independence National Historical Park.

Map of Independence National Historical Park.

Click on the map to view a larger version.

The President's House Site: An Archaeological Find

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(photo: TheHopefulTraveler)

Across Market Street from the Independence Visitor Center is the President's House Sit: Freedom and Slavery in the Making of New Nation. Above ground is an open-air installation of the long since demolished building that served as the "White House" from 1790 to 1800. Above ground is a composition of newly constructed walls and window and door silhouettes.

The long panels tell of some historical themes, including the slaves who worked in White House, but they are presented in an uninteresting way in dark tones and not friendly to read while standing in the chilly weather. The video screen on the site were either out of service or simply not turned on. Perhaps one day someone will build a miniature of the house as well of its interiors which would make a far more interesting exhibit.

Only George Washington and John Adams, the first two presidents of the United States, lived and worked in the mansion. The house was built in 1767 and served various purposes before becoming the "White House" for six years beginning in 1790. The last remains of the house was demolished in 1951 in the creation of Independence Mall.

Of more interest is a transparent wall that gives visitors a view of the archeological dig of the remnants of the original house. A New York Times article was highly critical of the $10.5 million exhibit which opened in 2010. Visit nps.gov for more information. There is no admission to visit the attraction.

National Constitution Center on Independence Mall

2011-10-21T10:35:00.000-10:00

(photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

I stopped by the National Constitution Center to see if it may be a worthwhile attraction. However the center has an admission of $14.50 and the staff at the ticket desk said that I should allow two hours to visit. I had less than an hour to spare before my timed entry to Independence Hall so I opted to skip a visit to the center. The price of admission is likely why this attraction had no line unlike its neighbors the Liberty Bell Center and Independence Hall.

The center which opened in 2003 is a stunning piece of modern architecture along the Independence Mall. Seen from a distance and etched into the facade is the preamble from the U.S. Bill of Rights. By the way avoid the gift shop if you don't like being hounded by salespeople who act like you're planning to shoplift.

Visit constitutioncenter.org for more info. Hours: Mon-Fri 9:30am-5pm; Sat 9:30am-6pm; Sun 12pm-5pm. Admission: Adults $14.50; Seniors (65+) $13; Students (with ID) $13; Children (ages 4-12) $8. Active military with ID and children under three are admitted for free. Tickets also available online.

Independence Visitor Center: Official Visitor Center for the Greater Philadelphia Region

2011-10-21T10:15:00.000-10:00

(photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

One of your first stops to the historical center of Philadelphia must include a visit to the Independence Visitor Center. This is where guests pick-up free tickets for timed entry to visit Independence Hall. The center also offers personalized service on what to see and do in the area. Just ask one of the uniformed National Park Service rangers or the concierge staff at the information desk.

If you want immediate and early entry into Independence Hall you must arrive early. But if your ticket gives you some time to spare, stop by the exhibit in the center, the cafe or gift shop. Just north of the center is the National Constitution Center. In the between the center and Independence Hall is the Liberty Bell Center and the President's House Site. Definitely and highly recommended is to pick up a National Park Service map to find the many sights within the few blocks around the center. I would suggest shopping at the gift shop for official souvenirs (below is a photo of the shop's decorative plate) after you've visited the nearby attractions.

The Independence Visitor Center is located at 6th and Market Streets in Philadelphia. Opens daily from 8:30am-6pm; from Memorial Day to Labor Day 8:30am-7pm. Visit independencevisitorcenter.com for more info.

Miller's Twist: More Than Pretzels at Reading Terminal Market

2011-10-21T08:52:00.043-10:00

(photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

Reading Terminal Market is conveniently located across the street along 12th Avenue from the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown. Making use of that convenience I returned to the market this morning to greg breakfast beginning my first full day in the city.

As usual the word "bacon" caught my attention. Miller's Twist sells pretzel logs filled with bacon, egg & cheese for $3 or two for $5.50. Other fillings include egg whites & mozzarella; egg & cheese; and turkey, egg & cheese. In addition to their signature pretzels, the shop sells pretzel dogs, pretzel cheesesteaks and Lancaster ice cream. A cup of coffee completed my simple meal.

The pretzel log is lightly coated sesame and is crispy and buttery on the outside. The bread beneath the crust is warm and wholesome. It tastes like a stuffed soft pretzel once some mustard is added to each bite. I should have bought two. The service was fast and friendly.

Miller's Twist is open Mon-Tues 9:30am-4pm; Wed 8am-3:30pm and Thu-Sat 8am-5pm.

Review: 'Aspects of Love' Blooms at the Walnut Street Theatre

2011-10-20T23:31:00.148-10:00

'Aspects of Love': The opening scene of Act 2.
(production photos: Mark Garvin)

‘Aspects of Love’ by composer Andrew Lloyd Webber is swathed in romantic melodies encompassing alove story that entwines the lives of five people in various amorous entanglements in Europe over the span of twenty years. The musical is currently at the tail end of a run at the Walnut Street Theatre in Philadelphia.

The musical, based on the novella by David Garnett, begins in 1942 when Alex Dilingham (Charles Hagerty), a 17-year-old soldier, is smitten with struggling French actress Rose Vibert (Jennifer Hope Wills). They spend a tryst at the country villa of Alex’s UncleGeorge Dillingham (Paul Schoeffler). George receives word of Alex’s fling while in Venice with his mistress Giulietta Trapani (Danielle G. Herbert). George returns to France to confront his nephew where Rose is enchanted by Alex’s suave uncle. Rose and George are evenutally married much to the surprise of Alex, who is fulfilling his call-up, but not before George, Rose and Giulietta share a bed in Venice.

Years later George and Rose have a daughter named Jenny (Jenna Brooke Scannelli).Alex returns from his service and sees a performance by the now famous actress Rose. She inviteshim to see his uncle at the country villa. It is there that Alex and Jenny begin a caring relationship that alarms George and Rose.

The opening number and the show’s most famous song “Love Changes Everything” is no longer a solo for Alex that opens play. Instead it becomes a duet and then an ensemble number. It may serve as a pre-cursor to highlight the main players in themusical but it robs Alex of his only solo song in the musical.

Charles Hagerty and Jennifer Hope Wills

Hagerty takes on the impetuous behavior of youth in act one but appears more comfortable in the role as the character ages all the while still retaining a boyish charm. He may not have a soaring tenor but his singing of the sung-though score is pleasant even if his English accent flows and ebbs during the evening. Wills is radiant in the role of Rose. The operatic tones of her voice fully rounds out the melodramatic character. She doesn’t sound very French but carries the role well from mistress to wife to mother. Her plea in “Anything But Lonely” is shattering.

Danielle G. Herbert and Paul Schoeffler

In the role George, Schoeffler portrays the character more of a playboy and he appears to be having fun on stage as if entertaining Rose, Giuletta and his on-stage daughter. Herbert affecting an unusual accent is earthy and lusty as Giulietta. Wearing some sexy and revealing costumes she tackles with aplomb the song “Hand Me the Wine and the Dice” which is one of the most difficult songs to sing that Lloyd Webber has ever composed. It’s quite a vocal workout for the actress.

The supporting players bring in their unique talents to the musical. Laurent Giroux is quite sly as Rose’s manager Marcel. Two actresses portray George and Rose’s daughter: a beguiling Scannelli as the fifteen-year-old Jenny and a poised Claire Norden as young version of the character (note: Norden and Arin Edelstein alternate in the role).

Charles Hagerty and Jenna Brooke Scannelli

Scenic designer John Farrell solves the swift scene changes (almost thirty of them) with the use of a revolve stage and a projection backdrops while members of the ensemble, plainly dressed in white, smoothly slide sheer curtains across the stage and move props into place. Costume designer Colleen Grady has emphasized the women’s figures in their costumes. However George seems to wearing the same pieces of clothing throughout the evening and the costumes forAlex seems could be a better fit for the actor.

The music remains lush and full under the musical direction of Douglass G. Lutz even if some of the numbers such as “Seeing Is Believing” and “Love ChangesEverything” and its many reprises appear to have the final notes cut short. Director Bruce Lumpkin reigns in the sprawling material that keeps the show moving at a fluid pace.

Although this version of ‘Aspects of Love’ is short of being flawless, at least this rarely performed show as produced at the Walnut for their season opener is lovely to see and hear on its stage. It contains some of Lloyd Webber’s most beautiful music and for that reason this show is a must see. No doubt this story of tangled romantic relationships will definitely give the audience something to talk about.

'Aspects of Love' is presented on the main stage of the Walnut Street Theatre in Philadelphia. Performances run September 6, 2011 to October 23, 2011; 8pm Tues-Sat, 7pm Sun; 2pm Wed & Sat. Tickets: $10-$95; Limited premium seats available which include a $65 donation. Visit walnutstreettheatre.org for more information and to purchase tickets online. Click HERE for premium seats.

Charles Hagerty, Paul Schoeffler and Jennifer Hope Wills

"Hand Me The Wine and the Dice": The ensemble

Beck's Cajun Cafe at Reading Terminal Market

2011-10-20T18:45:00.095-10:00

My dinner at Beck's Cajun Cafe: Fried Shrimp Po Boy, Sweet Potato
Fries and Ginger Ale. See below for close-up photos.
(photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

I didn't have much time to take a quick rest, unpack, shower, grab dinner and allow time to walk to the theatre for an 8pm curtain time of a performance that I had booked for my first night's entertainment. Since my flight was delayed by three hours I didn't' finally get into my room at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown until after 4:30pm. I like to be organized for trips even short ones and rushing isn't the way to start things off.

Being this was my first visit to Philadelphia and this hotel, I had no idea how close the Reading Terminal Market was to the hotel. My taxi driver remarked that it is a great place to find all kinds of food. So I quickly checked into my room, dropped my bags and headed for an early dinner. I didn't each lunch and I was hungry.

The taxi driver was right. The market had lots of choices and the menu at Beck's Cajun Cafe really whet my appetite. I never ate a 'po boy' sandwich and decided on the one with fried shrimp ($8.50; New Orleans sandwich served on French bread with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles and creole mayo). It really hit the spot. The fried shrimp were cooked perfectly and were hot and crispy. Maybe I wasn't eating it correctly but I had an issue with some of the shrimp falling out of my sandwich. It didn't matter I finished those felled pieces as well.

Beck's sweet potato fries was a complimentary side ($3.25). I would have preferred them to be bit more crispy but it appears these fries aren't prepared that way. They were not overly spicy and I actually wasn't able to finish them. I took the extra back to my hotel to snack while unpacking. I washed down both items with a ginger ale (total for the meal was about $14.50).

I found the servers helpful and my wait was short. But it appears this was a slow time as closing time for the eatery was near. The menu also includes gumbos, jambalaya, beignets and complete lunch platters. Because of Reading Terminal Market's location I would likely be returning to visit more eateries.

Visit beckscajuncafe.com for more info. Click HERE to view their menu. Located in the Reading Terminal Market (12th and Arch Streets) in Philadelphia. Hours: Mon-Sat 8am-6pm; Sun 9am-5pm.

Phildelphia, Here I Come!

2011-10-20T17:20:00.004-10:00

Arrived in Phildelphia, Pennsylvania today for a three-night visit. Getting here should have been smooth and started well with the departure yesterday on an overnight flight from Honolulu (HNL) to Dallas-Ft Worth (DFW). It was at DFW this morning where boarding took unusually long due to the number carry-on bags brought on board and both passengers and flight attendants finding places for them to be stowed. After the American Airlines jet left the gate, the plane was left waiting on the tarmac for almost an hour.

Behold new rules regarding waiting on the tarmac took affect when it appeared we would not be able to take-off within the half hour. Rather than risking a financial penalty for the airline the pilot took the jet back to the gate and all the passengers and our belongings deplaned. After waiting for another half-hour the routine began again.

The whole ordeal delayed the flight by almost three hours. When arriving in Philadelphia (PHL) at 4pm rather than 1:30pm, passengers at the airport were crowding the gate who were obviously waiting for the plane for their flight out of PHL.

Thankfully everything went smoothly after this. My checked bag quickly appeared on the carousel. Even though I'm here for only three nights I just didn't want to make the effort to condense what I needed. Since it was going to be cold, the coat I packed was going to take a good deal of space in either bag. My checked bag was actually a carry-on roller and carry-on bag was a computer bag.

The taxi was a flat rate of $25 to downtown Philly and the driver quickly got me to my hotel. So here we go. The following set of posts will cover this visit to Philadelphia. As for picking up a primary travel guide, I depended on the Eyewitness Travel Guide for Philadelphia which I found would be handy will lots of pictures and handy map

A Random Hour along Front Street in Lahaina, Hawaii

2011-10-18T23:18:00.000-10:00

Walking north along Front Street.

The neighbor island of Lanai can be viewed from Front Street in Lahaina.
Whale watching is popular here.

I was on the island of Maui last month for business and had a meeting in the town of Lahaina. Since I had an hour to kill I decided to explore part of Front Street which is the main road running through town that offers lots of shopping, restaurants and some historical sights all within steps from the ocean. Lahaina is located in West Maui and can only be reached via a long two-lane road that winds along the mountainside. Visitors driving along Honoapiilani Highway heading toward the resort area of Kaanapali will pass by Lahaina.

At one time Lahaina was the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii until it was moved to Honolulu. Lahaina was the center of the whaling industry in the 19th century. One of the striking attractions is that along the waterfront visitors can clearly see the neighbor island of Lahaina across the bay.

Here are a couple of links for information about this historical Hawaii town:
Lahaina Restoration Foundation
Front Street Lahaina - Maui's Unofficial Shopping and Dining Mall

Walking south along Front Street.

On stretch of Front Street runs right along the ocean.

The Wo Hing Museum. Built in 1912, the temple was used by the Wo Hing
Society where the Chinese community maintained social and political ties
with their ancestral homes.

The weather on the west side of each island is often dry and warm. Today
was particularly hot. Picked up some coconut juice at the ABC Store
on Front Street to help quench my thirst and cool down.

Eat the Street Kakaako: Where Your Eat Meet the Street

2011-10-16T10:07:00.114-10:00

Whoever came up with the idea of bringing lunch wagons/food trucks together in one central location had a stroke of genius. Most of us in Hawaii find these trucks to find at their regular street stops or by accident during lunch. By having them in one place is like having a mobile food court and is the perfect place to find some late afternoon "grinds" after work or pick up some dinner on the way home.

What probably started as an experiment is now a monthly event taking place on the last Friday of each month at locations to be announced. I attended the Eat the Street that took place on September 30th in a parking lot in the Kakaako area between downtown Honolulu and the Ala Moana shopping district.

Themed "Eat Local, Drink Local" the 39 food trucks and vendors offered at least one dish that included a locally grown or raised ingredient. Attracting local food enthusiasts and visitors alike, last month's event attracted a crowd of over 5,000. The only issue is that deepening on the location and the time when you plan to visit, parking can be limited. The event runs from 4pm-9pm.

The ETS event included food trucks and vendors as varied as Koi 808, Elena's Restaurant, Extreme Tacos, Ono Pops, Simply Ono, Chimney Cakes and Soul Patrol. Visit streetgrindz.com for more info about upcoming ETS events. As much as I wanted to try as many dishes as possible, the portions offered are not tasting sized so I was full by the time I hit my third food truck. That's not a bad thing. In Hawaii the more food the better. Keeping the event hopping is live music to entertain the crowds. One tented section of the parking lot was exclusively set up with tables and chairs for diners.

Eat the Street is brought for your eating pleasure in partnership with Kamehameha Schools and Nonstop Honolulu. Streetgrindz.com is a resource to Hawaii residents and visitors who are looking for an alternative to the colorful and eclectic food scene in the islands that promotes Hawaii's mobile food industry as an untapped dining experience. Prices can top at $10 for a full plate meal or around $5 for single serve dishes. Just bring lots of cash if you bring an empty stomach.

From Inferno's Wood Fire Pizza: Guava smoked pork slice. Served hot
and juicy and full flavor. (photos: TheHopefulTraveler).

Zsolie's Chimney Cake Hawaii: These twisting funnel treat in various sweet
flavors (mine had cinnamon and sugar) actually would be better with a cup
of coffee, hot chocolate or milk. Eat it while it's hot.

Soul Patrol: It's hard not to go wrong with bacon mac and cheese. Delicious.

Before heading home, stopped by the Liquid Pleasure truck to pick up a
refreshing banana smoothie.

A parking lot that takes up an entire city block was taken over by
Eat the Street on September 30, 2011.

If you head out early you'll likely find good parking but the afternoon
sun was still beating down on diners.

Lines and decision making. One of the commons sights at Eat the Street.

The tent under which were tables and chairs filled fast. Cocktail tables
set up nearby were open.

These lucky trucks and foodies had the shade of a nearby condominium
to keep them cool.

Digital Scenery of 'The Phantom of the Opera' at Royal Albert Hall in Celebration of 25 Years

2011-10-14T20:46:00.081-10:00

Rendering of the "Masquerade" design.

From 'The Woman in White' and then 'Love Never Dies,' the use of video scenery in both of these Andrew Lloyd Webber musicals was prominent. Rather than just downsizing the set design, digital scenery is being used to complete the scenery and is often used to great effect that would be too expensive or impossible to do with traditional stage design techniques. In 'The Phantom of the Opera' at Royal Albert Hall in Celebration of 25 Years, the use of digital scenery helps to fill the stage at the huge venue but remain faithful to the original and much loved designs by Maria Bjornson.

For "The Woman in White" many criticized designer William Dudley's complete use of digital scenery on curved screens which was applied to dizzying effect and caused some dizziness among audience members. The use of digital scenery and projection designed by Jon Driscoll for the 'Phantom' sequel 'Love Never Dies' was used to enhance rather than dominate the production design by Bob Crowley.

Driscoll was handed the duties of again designing the projections and digital scenery for 'The Phantom' 25th anniversary celebration. An article on stage-directions.com reports that Driscoll had to work to within the sets of two designers, Bjornson and Matt Kinley. Kinley adapted the designs by Bjornson and augmented them for Royal Albert Hall. In addition costumes and accessories had to be found to dress the more than 130 member cast and ensemble. So it would have been improper to bill the show as 'The Phantom of the Opera' 25th Anniversary Concert.

The digital scenery was split into two sections. Above the raised orchestra platform was a huge gauze screen onto which the projections were employed. Below the platform were nine panels filled with with 75 LED screens. The five inter panels moved into a series of different positions for cast and scenery to be moved on and off stage. These two video elements were united to depict the elegant swooshing of the curtains across both surfaces.

In this post are set design renderings revealing the use of the projection and video screens. Click HERE to read more about Driscoll's work on 'The Phantom' celebration.

Rendering of the the top of the Paris opera house for "All I Ask of You"
and "Music of the Night (reprise)".

Rendering of the "Hannibal" opera for Act 1.

Design for the Phantom's lair.

The design for the ballet during the "Il Muto" opera.

Rendering of the opening scene of the "Il Muto" opera in Act 1.

Design for the appearance of the Phantom as Red Death during "Masquerade".

Act 2 of Encore Screening of 'The Phantom of the Opera' at Royal Albert Hall in Celebration of 25 Years

2011-10-12T19:48:00.132-10:00

This post continues with images from the second act of 'The Phantom of the Opera' 25th anniversary celebration performance at Royal Albert Hall. Note that the show is not billed as 'The Phantom of the Opera' 25th Anniversary Concert. It a fully staged presentation complete with sets and costumes. Click HERE for a review of the cinema screening of this special event. See the previous post or click HERE or to view first act production photos. (photos: Alasatir Muir/Getty Images & NBC/Universal; post updated with additional photos)

Raoul and Chrisine at the "Masquerade" ball.

(photos: Alasatir Muir/Getty Images & NBC/Universal)

The "Masquerade" ball.

Wynne Evans (Ubaldo), Wendy Ferguson (Carlotta) and Gareth Snook (Monsieur Andre).

The Phantom appears at the "Masquerade" ball.

Hadley Fraser (Raoul) and Madame Giry (Liz Robertson)=

Wendy Ferguson, Barry James (Monsier Firmin) and Sierra Boggess.

At right: Hadley Fraser and Sierra Boggess.

Hadley Fraser and Sierra Boggess

Wynne Evans and Wendy Ferguson

Sierra Boggess

At left: Hadley Fraser

Wendy Ferguson

Wynne Evans

Sierra Boggess

Ramin Karimloo (The Phantom)

Liz Robertson, Daisy Maywood (Meg Giry) and Hadley Fraser.

Ramin Karimloo and Sierra Boggess

Ramin Karimloo and Hadley Fraser

Hadley Fraser and Sierra Boggess

Ramin Karimloo and Sierra Boggess

Andrew Lloyd Webber

Sarah Brightman and Michael Crawford (right, the original Christine and
Phantom) and Sierra Boggess and Ramin Karimloo. (photo: David M. Benett/Getty Images)

Seven Phantoms unmasked at the after party: (left to right) Anthony
Warlow, Ramin Karimloo, Michael Crawford, Colm Wilkinson, John
Owen-Jones and Peter Joback. (photo: David M. Benett/Getty Images)

Act 1 of Encore Screening of 'The Phantom of the Opera' at Royal Albert Hall in Celebration of 25 Years

2011-10-11T23:53:00.004-10:00

The chandelier at the 'Phantom' in Celebration of 25 Years is unveiled
underneath a cloth with marked as "item 666". In lieu of show curtain
sliding video screens below the orchestra bridge and a larger video
screen above was also used as backdrops during the performance.
(photos: Alasatir Muir/Getty Images & NBC/Universal)

It was inevitable that I would attend the last screening of the cinema presentation of 'The Phantom of the Opera' at Royal Albert Hall in Celebration of 25 Years after having already seen it the week before. Click HERE for my review of this special production. After viewing other productions filmed plays and musicals which were then shown on television or released on DVD, seeing these presentations in a movie theatre gives the show more justice than seeing it on the small screen. If you cannot see it live in the theatre then this is the next best thing.

Note that the show is not billed as 'The Phantom of the Opera' 25th Anniversary Concert unlike the anniversary event for 'Les Miserables' last year. It a fully staged presentation complete with sets and costumes.

Rather than go on, I recommend viewing the show when it is finally released on video. It's likely it will be presented next on public television as other filmed presentations of musicals and plays have gone that route. In meantime here are more production shots from the 25th anniversary celebration performance of 'Phantom'. The photos below are from Act 1 of 'The Phantom of the Opera' at Royal Albert Hall. See the next post or click HERE for Act 2 production photos. (photos: Alasatir Muir/Getty Images & NBC/Universal; post has been updated with additional photographs)

Earl Carpenter plays the auctioneer of Lot 666.

Hadley Fraser playing the aged Raoul at the auction.

The "Hannibal" opera rehearsal.

Wendy Ferguson (Carlotta)

Wynne Evans (Ubaldo)

Christine takes her bow after "Think of Me".

The Phantom and Christine descend to his underground lair.

Sierra Boggess (Christine)

Sierra Boggess (Chrisine) and Ramin Karimloo (The Phantom)

Ramin Karimloo and Sierra Boggess

Ramin Karimloo and Sierra Boggess in the Phantom's lair.

Ramin Karimloo stars as The Phantom.

Ramin Karimloo and Sierra Boggess

The Phantom sends his "Notes" to the opera house managers.

Barry James (Monsier Firmin)

The "Il Muto" opera

Wendy Ferguson (right) plays Carlotta.

The ballet in the "Il Muto" opera.

Hadley Fraser stars as Raoul.

Hadley Fraser and Sierra Boggess.

Ramin Karimloo

Return to 'Sunset Boulevard' at Diamond Head Theatre

2011-10-10T17:34:00.130-10:00

The 'Sunset Boulevard' marquee at Diamond Head Theatre.
(photo: TheHopefulTraveler)

Yesterday I attended a second performance of Andrew Lloyd Webber's 'Sunset Boulevard' (click HERE to read my review) at Diamond Head Theatre. I've been attending performances at the venue since 1991 when I first saw another Lloyd Webber musical: 'Evita' which cemented that I would be a season ticket holder. Attending 'Sunset' again I was amazed at this polished production by DHT.

Including 'Sunset' and 'Evita', DHT has presented five Lloyd Webber musicals. The others are:

Jesus Christ Superstar (1993 & 2004)

Song & Dance (1994)

Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (1996)

Although I would attend each show twice being a fan of the composer there is one production that I've attended three times at DHT. It's a guilty pleasure of mine and one of my favorites ever since seeing the original production on Broadway in 2006. That was the musical adaptation of the film 'The Wedding Singer'. Though DHT's 2009 production was very limited in its budget for the production design compared to other shows, the musical was well cast winning five Po'okela Awards (four of which was for acting). The Po'okela Awards is presented by the Hawaii Theatre Council for achievement in local theatre.

DHT bills itself as Broadway of the Pacific and is located along the slopes of famous Diamond Head crater. Because of its location in Honolulu, Hawaii and therefore distant from major cities on the U.S. mainland, it has been able to snag rights to some productions before other community theaters. The theatre currently presents a six-show season consisting of five musicals and one play of both Broadway and off-Broadway productions. The 2011-2012 season continues with Rodgers & Hammerstein's 'Cinderella,' 'The Butler Did It,' 'Titanic,' 'Xanadu' and 'Singin' in the Rain.' Click HERE to view the DHT season archives for a list of past productions.

Performances run for three weekends (though extensions are rare) with performances Thu-Sat 8pm; Sat 3pm and Sun 4pm. The second Sunday performance usually is an interpreted and described performance for the deaf community and includes a talk back post show discussion with the creative team and actors.

Though the name Diamond Head Theatre was adopted in 1990, the theatre has a history beginning in 1915 when it was called The Footlights. This makes DHT the third oldest continuously operating community theatre in the United States. From 1934 to 1990 the group was called Honolulu Community Theatre.

Visit diamondheadtheatre.com or call 808-733-0274 for more info. The theatre is located at 520 Makapuu Avenue in Honolulu, Hawaii.

The opening scene of 'Sunset Boulevard' at DHT.
(photo above and below: Brad Goda)

Mary Gutzi stars as Norma Desmond and Matthew Pennaz as Joe Gillis
in 'Sunset Boulevard'.

Panoramic Photos of Waikiki Using Pano App

2011-10-08T04:08:00.045-10:00

Click on either photo for a larger view.

A friend sent these which he made using the Pano app on his iPhone. Click on either panoramic photo above to view larger versions of both. You'll see that these photos offer great views of the the ocean along Waikiki and peak through the hotels of the area with Diamond Head in the distance. The top is taken from the Hilton Hawaiian Village and the one beneath it is taken from the Embassy Suites Waikiki Beach Walk. Click HERE to purchase and download Pano from the iTunes App Store for your iPhone or iPad2. The developer claims it's easy to use. Pano looks worthwhile for those moments that deserve a panoramic view.

Features of Pano:
- Take 360-degree panoramas with up to sixteen photos.
- Guide helps the user to line up each shot.
- Advanced alignment, blending and color-correction provide seamless images in seconds.
- Finished panoramas saved directly to camera roll.
- Final resolution up to 6800x800.
- Panos can be resumed if interrupted.

Review: 'The Phantom of the Opera' at Albert Hall In Celebration of 25 Years in Cinemas

2011-10-06T23:01:00.142-10:00

'Phantom' at Albert Hall (image: Alastair Muir)

Lot 666, the chandelier about to be unveiled. (image: reallyuseful)

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ was servedin what could be called the ultimate production. Augmenting the original stagedesigns for the scope of the huge Royal Albert Hall combined with a cast ofover 200 actors and musicians would guarantee the event would be a full-fledgedspectacle.

Few would have predicted that any musical would run 25 yearsin London’s West End much less Broadway (where the show will hit the samemilestone in January 2013). If one would consider why the show is successful,many would agree there would be at least two reasons: The tunes that LloydWebber composed for ‘Phantom’ are inviting and gorgeous and now classics of themusical theatre: “Music of the Night,” “All I Ask of You,” “Think of Me,”“Masquerade” and the title song.

Secondly is the sumptuous production design by the late MariaBjornson. No one can deny the detail and extravagance that is the show’strademarks costumes and sets. When the music and stagecraft were combined,the effect on the audience was breathtaking. This is probably why unlike the 'Les Miserables' 25th Anniversary Concert last year, this production is staged with costumes and sets.

Of course let’s not forget the marketing smarts of producerCameron Mackintosh who for years relied primarily on a mask and rose toadvertise the production. His triumvirate of producing ‘Cats,’ ‘Les Miserables’and ‘Phantom’ made him one of the most powerful people in the theatre.

Sierra Boggess and Ramin Karimloo (photo: Alastair Muir)

Ramin Karimloo and Sierra Boggess (photo: Alasatair Muir)

Twenty-five years since the musical premiered in London, weare all a bit older and hopefully wiser and still appreciative of theachievement and artistry of ‘The Phantom of the Opera.’ For the 25th anniversary celebration performance at Albert Hall, the creators have brought some of their bestplayers. As the Phantom, Ramin Karimloo made headlines when he first played therole at Her Majesty’s Theatre in London. At 27 he was the youngest actor toplay the role in London or New York and that he was born in Iran (but raised inCanada) added to his mystique. Karimloo’s voice was even richer at this performance than at thetwo shows of ‘Love Never Dies’ (Lloyd Webber’s ‘Phantom’ sequel) I attendedin 2010. If Karimloo is not physically imposing as the Phantom he is aseductive and passionate one.

Sierra Boggess comes to Albert Hall via ‘Phantom – The LasVegas Spectacular’ at the Venetian and ‘Love Never Dies’ where she appeared asChristine in the launch of both productions. Her vibrant and supple sopranoglides blissfully through each note in the score. From an enchanting “Think ofMe” to a dramatic “Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again.” Karimloo and Boggessare electrifying in their performances.

Raoul, depending on the actor, can become a non-entity due to limited characterization. It would have been nice if Hadley Fraser had some ofthe rough features he displayed in his other stage roles but at least he looks pretty (someone should have rethought the eyeliner for the big screen).Sometimes the actor portraying Raoul can be wimpy with vocals to match butHadley has a strong tenor voice and brings a confident performance. “All I Askof You” by Hadley and Boggess remains a romantic highlight. Want to hear anexcellent full-throated vocal from Hadley? Listen to his performance of thesong "I'll Be There" on 'The Pirate Queen' cast recording.

The supporting players offer memorable performances as well.Wendy Ferguson firmly grasps the role of the opera diva Carlotta with a robustvoice and a welcomed portrayal that is less broad keeping the character from straying too far into caricature. Ferguson is also playing the role at Her Majesty’sTheatre and is a replacement at the celebration for the ill Keira Duffy. The droll aspects of thescript were left to Gareth Snook and Barry James as the opera managers MonsieurAndre and Monsieur Firmin with James particularly oily and pompous in his role.

"Masquerade" (photo: Alastair Muir)

Hadley Fraser and Sierroa Boggess (photo: Alastair Muir)

Madame Giry is a key character in the play with limitedstage time and Liz Robertson in the role gives the expected stern and wiseportrayal while Daisy Maywood is sweet as the young dancer Meg Giry. By the waythe “Prima Donna” septet number is glorious.

Director Laurence Connor (who also helmed the International and U.S. ‘LesMiserables’ 25^th Anniversary Tours) and original choreographerGillian Lynne confidently lead the massive undertaking and large cast befittingthe fabled venue. Connor is also directing a version of ‘Phantom’ that likethis concert borrows elements of the original but will be newly staged for aU.K. tour starting next year.

The set design by Matt Kinley employs the originals by Bjornson and essentiallyexpands them for the scope of Royal Albert Hall. Three levels of gilded operaboxes now flank each side of the false proscenium. The chandelier (the one in LasVegas is still unrivaled) perched high above the audience makes a dramaticappearance from underneath a cloth to the strains of the familiar overture. Itdoes not crash at the end of act one but goes out in a flame of fireworks.

Probably the best use of the massive Albert Hall stage is during the ‘Masquerade’ sequence where what appears to be a hundred colorfully costumedactors on not one but three grand staircases (two of which are fixed on thesides and serving as an entrance and exit for the actors and one sliding ontocenter stage. Unfortunately this scene and others were marred from some poortechnical direction. At a few moments the cameras were not focused on the right performerat the right time and probably proved a detriment how each actor’s performancewas viewed.

Barry James, Wendy Ferguson and Gareth Snook (photo: Alastair Muir)

Red Death appears at the Masquerade ball (photo: Alastair Muir)

One of the new and most unusual aspects of the presentationwas the use of video screens as an element of the set design. With the orchestra perched on a bridge above therear of the stage, sliding video screens were located below them while a largerone loomed above. These were used to great effect to open up the stage todepict the cemetery where Christine visits her father’s grave; the lavishbackdrops for the three mini-operas (“Hannibal,” “Il Muto,” and “Don JuanTriumphant”) within the musical; and the roof of the Paris opera house.

One lost opportunity for the evening was redeveloping thePhantom’s trap in his lair that ensnares Raoul. The lasso around his neck justdoesn’t cut it. It appears the knife filled torture cage designed for the Las Vegas version is proprietary to that one production which truly imprisons Raoul could not be used here. But a variation would have been welcomed.

After the film I heard others talking thatChristine’s return to the Phantom with one last glance before going back toRaoul was supposedly a hint to the sequel ‘Love Never Dies’ but it was notobvious to me. Still with the right performers such as this evening, the endingremains romantic and heartbreaking. The musical was never designed as a horror story though based on Gaston Leroux's novel.

What would a 25th anniversary celebration bewithout a special finale? The creators made the obligatory appearance withLloyd Webber trying to find the right words of gratefulness for the show andthe evening followed with the presentation of the original 1986 London cast. Afalse anticipation happened next with the introduction of Michael Crawford andSarah Brightman (the original Phantom and Christine). As much as the audience yearned for it Crawford does not sing atall. Reports indicate due to his current role in ‘The Wizard of Oz’ in the WestEnd he was not able to rehearse for the finale. Other reports say he may havebeen saving his voice due to the eight-performance schedule. Either way it wasa disappointment.

Ramin Karimloo (photo: Alastair Muir)

Liz Robertson and Sierra Boggess (photo: Alastair Muir)

However Brightman did sing and when the strains of the titlesong began four Phantoms appeared on stage to accompany her: Colm Wilkinson(who originated the role in Toronto), Anthony Warlow (Australian production),John Owen-Jones (who has played the role in London) and Swedish music starPeter Joback (who is announced to star next year in the London production).Wilkinson, Warlow and Jones are greeted to enthusiastic applause and less sofor Joback who sports a thin voice that is starkly different to the soaringtenors of his co-Phantoms. Karimloo (still fully masked) joins at the end ofthe number.

The entire company then sing the lyrics that lead into “Musicof the Night” which is then performed by the five Phantoms (once more notincluding Crawford). Again Joback is the weak link. A burst of fireworks roundthe auditorium and confetti closes the evening.

The show was presented at Royal Albert Hall in twoperformances on October 1st and the filmed presentation was of thethird sell-out performance the next day. The production is planned for releaseon DVD and Blu-ray. Let’s hope that the camera issues viewed from movie screensare fixed for video.

After seeing ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ live in far flungplaces as Los Angeles, London, Honolulu, San Francisco, New York, Toronto andLas Vegas, the show has not lost its theatrical magic by being screened in amovie theater. The honest joy about seeing these and tonight’s production isthe simple pleasure of hearing beautiful music, enjoying wonderful performances,seeing magnificent stage designs in a romantic story. No doubt seeing ‘Phantom’ again will be in my future.

This review is based on viewing the filmed presentation atRegal Cinemas Dole Cannery in Honolulu, Hawaii on October 5, 2011. Post has been updated to include additional photos.

(Of note: Steve Barton who originated the role of Raoulpassed away in 2001 at the age of 47. Official reports indicate the reason wasof heart failure. Mary Millar who originated the role of Madame Giry died ofovarian cancer in 1998 at the age of 62. Both actors’ roles are preserved onthe original London cast recording of the show.)

Christine takes her bow after "Think of Me". The Royal Albert Hall
audience projected on the set's video screens. (photo: reallyuseful)

Sarah Brightman, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Michael Crawford, Sierra
Boggess and Ramin Karimloo (photo: David M. Benett/Getty Images)

The end of the show (photo: Alastair Muir)

Update: The U.S. release of this special staging of 'The Phantom of the Opera' on DVD, Blu-ray and 2CD Set is February 7, 2012.

Review: 'Sunset Boulevard' Rises at DHT in Honolulu

2011-10-04T23:02:00.003-10:00

(all photos: Brad Goda/Diamond Head Theatre)

‘Sunset Boulevard’ finally plays Honolulu, Hawaii in a communityproduction at Diamond Head Theatre. The musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber is one ofthe best of the last twenty years and is among my favorites by the composer. Ifelt excited and at the same time had thoughts of trepidation with the prospectof seeing this production.

Like Lloyd Webber’s ‘The Phantom of the Opera,’ thepopularity with ‘Sunset’ was tied to its opulent set design and costumes butmore importantly to the actress starring in the lead role. After seeing aproduction at Washington DC’s Signature Theatre, I honestly felt this show beyond its original carnation could only be made with very mixed results.

‘Sunset Boulevard’ tells of aging silent movie star NormaDesmond who dreams of making a comeback in the world of pictures with sound, orin her words “a return,” to the big screen. Luckless writer Joe Gillis ispulled into Norma’s dark world where he is a kept man writing her screenplay.

Mary Gutzi (Norma Desmond) and Matthew Pennaz (Joe Gillis)

Mary Gutzi

The musical’s book is an adaptation by Christopher Hampton andDon Black, also the show’s lyricists, from the 1950 film starring GloriaSwanson and William Holden. The black and white film classic was nominated foreleven Oscars and won three for screenplay, score and art direction. Faithful tothe piece, Hampton and Black, retain portions of the memorable dialogue from thefilm (Norma: “I am big. It’s the pictures that got small”)

My worries of seeing a pale version of the musical werequickly cured. ‘Sunset Boulevard’ at DHT is a production worthy of competingwith presentations by professional theatre companies across the USA. Mary Gutzi(performing with the permission of Actors Equity) embodies the role of theaging star completely as if she stepped directly from playing the role onBroadway.

Her performance of the show’s big numbers of “With One Look”and “As If We Never Said Goodbye” remain showstoppers. Gutzi’s rich voice neverhits a wrong note and shakes the rafters when called for. Norma Desmond hassome of the best lines ever written for a role and though many of themhumorous, Guzti never side steps the tragic underpinnings of the character.

Matthew Pennaz and Joy Bill (Betty Schaefer)

Matthew Pennaz and Mary Gutzi

As a larger than life character Norma Desmond may be, Gutzidominates her scenes without stomping over the presence of the other actorsespecially that of her leading man Matthew Pennaz who stars as Joe. Many are unaware that thecharacter of Gillis is rarely off stage and Pennaz is up to the task and givesa sturdy performance as he crosses worlds from the rich and dark one of Normato the happy and struggling world of his Hollywood friends. He delivers strongvocals throughout the piece especially in the title number. He and Gutzi createstage magic from their first meeting in her mansion to the waltz-like “ThePerfect Year.”

Strong supporting players do not disappoint either. JodyBill as Betty Schafer is the young writer that falls in love with Gillis. She and Pennaz areenchanting together as evidenced in the song “Too Much In Love To Care.” Bill’sperformance is ever more impressive when contrasted to her role as KateMonster/Lucy the Slut in last season’s “Avenue Q” at Manoa Valley Theatre.

Max Von Mayerling, Norma’s dutiful butler, is probably oneof the more difficult roles to cast and play. Olivier Jodloman gives a unique performanceof Max that is just a shade this side of Gomez Addams but not less substantial.He makes a dramatic impact with “The Greatest Star of All” and its reprise inthe second act.

"This Time Next Year" feating the Ensemble.

Olivier Jodloman (Max Von Mayerling)

A large credit for the strong overall production is due tothe well cast ensemble. Technical problems with the sound are often as issue atDHT when there is a large group of musical players. I don’t know if it’s a lack ofmicrophones but there were issues here and there. Still the ensemble performedwonderfully with proper musical staging to control their traffic onstage. Theyare particularly delightful in the opening “Let’s Have Lunch” scenes as well asin “Every Movie’s A Circus” and “This Time Next Year” later in Act One. Thewomen appear to have some fun with the humorous antics in “Eternal Youth IsWorth A Little Suffering”.

Technical aspects play a role in bringing this ‘Sunset’ tolife. Costume designer Amy Schrag conjures up old Hollywood and brings gasps ofwonder at each extravagant costume change for Norma. Credit is also given toJess Aki for Gutzi’s transformation into Norma, wigs and makeup for the women and a lackof Justin Bieber hair among the men.

Many will sing praises of Norma’s opulent mansioncomplete with grand staircase that smoothly slides in and out of place duringthe course of the play. But set designer Willie Sable also makes excellentrecreations of all of the sets from the Paramount Studio gates to a studio backlot. A drop cloth of palm trees really works on stage in this production. Equalcredit goes to Stephen Clear for lighting design that brings proper shades today and night scenes and adds that extra glamour for the mansion scenes no moreso than in the segments that take place on New Year’s Eve.

"Eternal Youth Is Worth A Little Suffering" featuring the Ensemble.

Phillip Foster and Fredrico Biven

Director and choreographer John Rampage appears to have puthis cast through a severe rehearsal period with equal demand on his designersto present a musical that really is one of best ever staged productions at DHT.

After the through-sung endeavors of ‘Phantom of the Opera’and ‘Aspects of Love,' many critics were surprised by the inclusion of large portions of spoken dialoguein a Lloyd Webber musical, something that became prevailing touch in all hisfuture musicals. But his score was still substantial capturing the feel of1950s Hollywood for all the young hopefuls to the grand sweeping ballads forNorma.

From all appearances the show was a labor oflove and the hard work invested by those on stage and behind the scenes isevidenced at every turn. A visit to ‘Sunset Boulevard’ at DHT is worthrepeating. See it at least once.

'Sunset Boulevard' is presented at Diamond Head Theatre in Honolulu. Performances run from September 30, 2011 to October 16, 2011; 8pm Thursdays and Fridays, 3pm and 8pm Saturdays and 4pm Sundays. Tickets cost $12-$42. Visit diamondheadtheatre.com for tickets and information. Call 808-733-0274 or visit the theatre box office at 520 Makapuu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816. (Review of 10/2/11 performance.) Post photos updated on 10/11/11.

Above and below: Mary Gutzi

"Let's Have Lunch" featuring the Ensemble.

Mary Gutzi and Gerald Altwies (Cecil B. DeMille)

Matthew Pennaz and Jody Bill

"The Lady's Paying" featuring the Ensemble.

Mary Gutzi

Jody Bill

Jody Bill and Matthew Pennaz

Mary Gutzi and Matthew Pennaz

"Every Movie's A Circus" featuring the Ensemble.

Mary Gutzi

Matthew Pennaz and Mary Guzti

Matthew Pennaz

Mary Gutzi

'The Phantom of the Opera' at Albert Hall in Celebration of 25 Years: London Comes To A Cinema Near You

2011-10-02T04:23:00.197-10:00

Today is the day when the final performance of the special 25th anniversary staging of 'The Phantom of the Opera' at Royal Albert Hall will be screened live at over 500 movie theaters nationwide. The blockbuster musical first opened in London at Her Majesty's Theatre in October 1986.

The live show of composer Andrew Lloyd Webber's hit musical at Royal Albert Hall is one of three sell-out performances this weekend: an evening performance on October 1st and two performances on October 2nd. The show is not billed as 'The Phantom of the Opera' 25th Anniversary Concert unlike the anniversary event for 'Les Miserables' last year. This special event is a fully staged presentation complete with sets and costumes. It incorporates the original designs of Maria Bjornson with direction by Laurence Connor and choreography by Gillian Lynne.

Sierra Boggess and Ramin Karimloo
(photo: Bruce Glikas/Broadway.com)

Ramin Karimloo and Sierra Boggess (co-stars of Lloyd Webber's 'Phantom' sequel 'Love Never Dies') play The Phantom and Christine Daae and leads a cast and orchestra of over 200 with special guests. The staging also features Hadley Fraser as Raoul, Daisy Maywood as Meg Giry, Barry James as Monsier Firmin, Gareth Snook as Monsier Andre, Liz Robertson as Madame Giry and Wynn Evans as Piangi.

Keira Duffy who was scheduled to play Carlotta announced on her Facebook page "(very regretfully) that nature has decided that I am not meant to sing in Phantom of the Opera after all. I have come down with a bad throat infection, and have had to pull out of the production." Wendy Ferguson currently playing the role in London at Her Majesty's Theatre replaces Duffy.

This special performance will be released on DVD, Blu-ray, CD and digital download. Also previously reported is the Melbourne production of 'Love Never Dies' will also be made available on DVD and Blu-ray.

Visit fathomevents.com for a complete list of participating U.S. theaters. Hawaii audiences will be able to view the presentation tape delayed at Regal Cinemas Dole Cannery Stadium 18 (October 2, 5, 11) in Honolulu and Hollywood Theaters Prince Kuhio Theaters 9 (October 2, 5) in Hilo. (Note: This cinema presentation of 'The Phantom Of the Opera' at Royal Albert Hall will be reviewed at the October 5th screening.)

Update: The U.S. release of this special staging of 'The Phantom of the Opera' on DVD, Blu-ray and 2CD Set is February 7, 2012.

Sierra Boggess and Ramin Karimloo. Both
previously starred in 'The Phantom of the Opera': Boggess in the
Las Vegas at the Venetian and Karimloo in London at Her Majesty's Theatre.
(photo: Catherine Ashmore)

Filming Ensures That 'Love Never Dies'

2011-09-30T23:46:00.064-10:00

Anna O'Byrne as Christine Daae and Ben Lewis as The Phantom.

This month crews completed filming the Australian production of 'Love Never Dies,' Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical that continues the story of 'The Phantom of the Opera.' Though the Australian production will close at the Regent Theatre in Melbourne on December 18 and reopen at Sydney's Capitol Theatre in January 2012, the intention of the filming is for a global DVD release.

The release date has not been announced. The Australian version of 'Love Never Dies' is a completely new production and different than the version that opened in London in March 2010 to cool critical response and closed on August 27th. The London version went on hiatus to install changes to improve production but did not prove to extend the life of the production. The failure of the 'Love Never Dies' in London scuttled an announced Broadway production that was to open in November 2010.

The Australian 'Love Never Dies' is directed by Simon Phillips ('Priscilla Queen of the Desert') with a production design by Gabriela Tylesova which gave the show a darker, more brooding approach. The show also incorporated revisions to the script and score that were installed in the London production. Ben Lewis stars as the Phantom with Anna O'Byrne as Christine Daae. 'Love Never Dies' is set ten years after the original story and follows Christine to New York's Coney Island where she is invited to perform for the mysterious Mr. Y. Characters from her past begin to emerge, including one with whom she shares a dark secret.

Update: The U.S. release of 'Love Never Dies' is May 29, 2012 and will be available on DVD and Blu-ray and available on amazon.com.

Guinness World Record Holder for the Most Performances in the Same Broadway Show

2011-09-28T21:58:00.087-10:00

From left: David Cryer (Monsieur Firmin), Michele McConnell (Carlotta) and
Geroge Lee Andrews (Monsier Andre) in 'The Phantom of the Opera'.

With 'The Phantom of the Opera' on the verge of celebrating its 25th Anniversary since its London premiere, actor George Lee Andrews reached a milestone of his own with the Broadway production of Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical. Andrews has performed in various roles in the show (lately as Monsier Andre, one of the two opera manager characters in the show) for 9,382 performances. His last performance was on September 3rd.

A New York Times article about his achievement that is a Guinness World Record also revealed some interesting trivia:
- George Lee Andrews has been with the show for 23 years.
- During that time 12 different actors has played the title role.
- His contract has been renewed more than 40 times.
- Andrews is 68 years old by his last performance in the show.
- 'Phantom' has earned $825 million in New York so far.
- The Broadway production will celebrate its 25th anniversary in January 2013.
- More than 14.5 million people have seen the musical in New York.
- The show opened at the Majestic Theatre on January 26th 1988 with Andrews in the cast.
- Aaron Galligan-Stierle, 31, who is the son-in-law of Andrews will replace him in the role of Monsieur Andre.

The Times article indicate that lead producer Cameraon Mackintosh described the need for new blood to strengthen 'Phantom' for an indefinite commercial run as the reason that the contract with Andrews was not renewed.

Click HERE to read the full New York Times article. Below is an interview with Andrews on CBS News.

Review: 'The Phantom of the Opera' Haunts the Paliku Theatre at Windward Community College in Hawaii

2011-09-26T05:14:00.039-10:00

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical “The Phantom of the Opera” isavailable to high schools and colleges nationwide and taking advantage of theopportunity is Windward Community College, part of the University of Hawaii system, with a production at its campus Paliku Theatre.

Prior to this production, there were only three times the residentsof Hawaii could see the music locally. In 1993 the Canadian tour of the showgrossed over $11 million during a 10-week run at the Blaisdell Concert Hall. That was record gross that held for fourteen years until 1997 when the national tourof ‘The Lion King’ roared into Honolulu at the same venue. The same ‘Phantom’tour returned to Hawaii a year later in 1994 for a shorter grossing run. It wasn’tuntil 2010 when anyone in Hawaii would see another production locally. Thestudents of the private Punahou School put on a six-performance run in fall ofthat year.

Now talents on stage and behind the scenes are taking on thechallenge of tackling one of the most extravagant musicals ever produced andinterpreting it for a college theater stage. It appears the title is still aspopular as ever evidenced by the sold-out run of the show at the Paliku.

Kyle Mallis (Raoul), Lydia Pusateri (Christine) and Miles Wesley (The Phantom)
(photos: Paliku Theatre)

Though one would expect a downsized version of the originalset and costume designs by the late Maria Bjornson, such a production should applymore focus on the performers, their acting and singing. It’s a given thatbudget restrictions would limit any theatre company in trying to duplicate theoriginal production design. Also despite what theatre critics might say, LloydWebber’s music and lyrics by Charles Hart and Richard Stilgoe ably transportsthe audience to the world of the late 19th century Paris opera housewith a through-sung device and melodies to match. The operatic aspirations ofthe composter are made accessible with sweeping tunes.

For those familiar with the original: the crashingchandelier, the grand staircase for the masquerade ball and the phantom’sunderground lair are all splendidly designed and lit by Lloyd S. Riford III forthe Paliku stage. The only distraction was the blue elephant for the ‘Hannibal’opera sequence in the musical’s first scenes. Equally brilliant is thecostuming designs of Evette Tanouye Allerdings in what appears to include a mixof rented costumes.

Aside from the visuals, the orchestra and musical directorClarke Bright provide justice to Lloyd Webber’s score. The melodies are stillgrand and haunting as played by the seventeen-member orchestra.

The role of the Phantom is in actuality a supporting one.But he is omnipresent throughout the evening even when the actor is not onstage. The true showcase role is that of Christine Daae, the ingénue that thePhantom bewitches. The score is a marathon for any performer especially for theactress portraying Christine (hence in almost every professional productionwith eight shows a week an alternate plays the role at certain performances).

Miles Wesley as the Phantom and Lydian Pusateri as Christineably handle the plot demands. Both sing assuredly that “Music of the Night” and“Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again” will not disappoint and their duet of thetitle song is thrilling. Lloyd Webber has composed beautiful music linkingthese songs even if a chunk of them are to variations of theshow’s big songs. These moments deserve attention to carry the dramatic weightof the story. It’s likely that Wesely and Pusateri will grow into thesecharacters over the remaining performances to deliver these sung lineswith importance as they do the main numbers.

The role of the Raoul, the Vicomte de Chagny, completes thelove triangle. As written the character does not offer much depth. But KyleMallis reveals a professional stage presence in his performance and elevatesthe character more than it deserves. He is strong in voice and plays thecharacter believably. The cast also includes Leonard J. Villanueva and DouglasS. Scheer as the opera managers who provide more than adequate comedic support. AsCarlotta, Jaime Craycroft plays the opera diva with great fun and relish intentionallyreducing her soprano to pale in comparison to Christine.

The timeless appeal of this beauty and the beast storyespecially when adorned with the score of Lloyd Webber has helped to make themusical the most successful entertainment endeavor ever. Director Ronald E.Bright brings a confident hand to realize this production at the Palikuthat will delight new and old fans of 'The Phantom of the Opera.'

'The Phantom of the Opera' is presented at the Paliku Theatre at Windward Community College located in Kanoehe, Hawaii. Perfomances run to October 23, 2011; 7:30pm Wednesday, Fridays and Saturdays and 4pm Sundays. Tickets cost $30-$45; $49 for VIP ticket seating. Visit eticketshawaii.com to purchase tickets. Click HERE for more information.

Turndown Service on American Airlines

2011-09-24T07:39:00.053-10:00

Duvet and pillow; light-weight day blanket; slippers; pajamas and
amenity kit for premium class.

Premium Class amenity kit.
(photos: aa.com)

This month American Airlines enhanced their first-class passenger service with turndown service starting for passengers flying on flights between the United States and London's Heathrow Airport and in October on select flights between the U.S. and international destinations.

The service will offer first-class passengers a quilted bed-topper custom designed to fit American's Flagship Suite onboard Boeing 777s, pajamas and slippers. Other added amenities include a lightweight day blanket, premium duvet and pillow, amenity kit featuring Dermalogica skincare products and other travel necessities. American is the first and only U.S. airline to offer the service and helps it to enhance the travel experience like their their Oneworld Alliance partners.

Competition is stiff for first-class passengers who are important for each airline's survival since these passengers pay the most for their airfare.

Airline Boarding Procedures Determines First Access to Overhead Bins

2011-09-22T22:53:00.060-10:00

(photo: a380spotter/flickr)

Not all airline boarding procedures are the same and knowing the method an airline uses will help save some headache especially if you're eager to snag an overhead bin for your carry-on bag.

Usually most airlines employ the same method with allowing their first class passengers board first, then those requiring special assistance and then those holding elite level with the airlines. At this point each air carrier employs one of several methods for boarding. Each method is supposed to help turnaround the plane and have it off the ground by departure time. Adding to the confusion are airlines allowing economy passengers the privilege to board early at a price.

American Airlines boards by group numbers starting with passengers seated in the rear of the plane. Hawaiian Airlines boards by row numbers while Southwest Airlines uses an open-boarding system. Airlines do not make easy as these procedures are not clearly advertised. You can call or email the airline before booking your ticket or you can ask the check-in or gate agent at the airport. As many of us realize if you're the last group of passengers to board, the odds are you will have check your bag, stow it under the seat in front you or ask for help to make room for your carry-on which may mean your bag is stowed rows in front or behind you.

An editor of Consumer Reports researched how the largest domestic airlines conduct their boarding and he found it can be complex. Here are the various methods he discovered:

*Method 1. Rear to front, usually by zone.
*Method 2. WILMA (as in window-middle-airline); first window, then middle, then aisle seats board, all rows simultaneously.
*Method 3. WILMA, rear to front, by by zone.
*Method 4. Reverse pyramid: rear window, followed by rear middle, front window, front middle, rear aisle, then front aisle seats.
*Method 5. Random seating, with assigned seats.
*Method 6. Open seating by group, with no assigned seats, the method made famous by Southwest.
*Method 7. Open seating, all passengers simultaneously (better known as "The Mosh Pit")

Click HERE to read the full USA Today article regarding the madness that is airline boarding methods.

(photo: AIRticulate/flickr)

The Grossest Things Flight Attendants Have Seen Passengers Do

2011-09-20T20:24:00.051-10:00

Passenger resting his feet on the bulkhead. There was another photo
I could have used but I chose the one that grossed me out the least.
(photo: beezkneez/flickr)

The travel blog website jaunted.com published a story by a Sara Keagle, a flight attendant for over two decades, about the grossest things flight attendants have seen passengers do. The author pulled from her own experience and those of fellow flight attendants to come up with the list.

Among the incidents she reported are these untidy morsels:
Going No. 2: A passenger used the tissue (out of the tissue box dispenser in the restroom) to clean up after their bowel movement. They then placed the used tissues back into the tissue box. A fellow flight attendant reached into the tissue dispenser for a tissue and...discovered the issue firsthand.

Lost Panties: I was helping clean the plane at one of our out-stations so we could turn the plane on time and found a pair of bloody panties in the seat pocket. This is why we wear gloves.

A Little Laundry: A first class passenger took off his soggy socks and dried them by putting them over the air vent above his seat. Passengers all the way back in coach complained about the smell.

Impromptu Snacking: A first class passenger picked something off his bare feet...and ate it. I saw it myself!

In my experience one of the most common foul things that other passengers do is using any surface available as a foot rest with their bare feet. Not as gross as the incidents reported by the author but still bothersome. (Click HERE to read the comments that accompanied the photo above.)

Click HERE to view the full list. Be careful, I almost coughed up my dinner after reading the article.

Korean Air A380: Duty-Free Sky Shop

2011-09-18T16:59:00.094-10:00

(all photos: Korean Air)

Last month Korean Air was the latest airline to inaugurate the massive Airbus A380 jumbo jet into service and became the first to fly the plane with regular service across the Pacific between New York's JFK and Seoul Incheon. One unique feature of Korean Air's version of the plane that been drawing attention is the onboard duty-free shop. In a first, passengers can browse actual items in a physical shop rather than through brochures that has been the common method for onboard duty-free shopping.

Plans are to outfit the the airline's order of 13 A380 jets with a duty-free shop at the back of the main deck. The Sky Shop (as it is named on the jet) takes the place of 13 economy seats, a lavatory and storage closet. The shop will focus on high-end goods such as makeup, perfume, jewelry and watches. Pricey bottles of perfume and liquor are magnetized to ensure they do not fall off the shelves during turbulence.

The airline reports that that Korean passengers tend to buy more duty-free products compared with Europeans and South Americans and Korean Air's flights tend to sell out of items. Though the airline loses revenue with the loss of seats, the airline's view is that they will make more money with duty-free sales and selling advertising space in the shop.

Each shop is designed with five display units, each of which can hold up to 66 pounds of merchandise, and has the room to display 64 different individual items. After take-off, the shop crew will take products out of storage and set up the store. First class passengers will have priority visit to the duty-free shop followed by business class and then passengers flying in economy. Orders are placed at the shop with a crew member, one of whom will later deliver the goods to the passenger's seat.

Click HERE to learn more about the Korean Air A380 which the airline advertises as "Where Dreams Are Made." The video below is about the design of the duty-free shop.

A White Elephant in Las Vegas is Blue: Harmon Hotel

2011-09-16T05:41:00.080-10:00

(photo: Ali-PG/flickr)

It may appear like a glistening blue jewel on the strip, but the Harmon Hotel in Las Vegas is a dud of an empty shell. Last month press reports indicated that MGM Resorts International is recommending the tower, part of the massive City Center complex, be demolished because of construction defects.

On that notion this "white elephant" on the trip is becoming a favorite for photographs by visitors while the building is still standing. It's unlikely it will demolished anytime soon while litigation is ongoing between MGM and the building's general contractor, Perini Building Co.

If and when the Harmon Hotel is demolished it will be before the hotel ever welcomes even one guest. Initially it was to be a 49-story mixed-use complex with 200 condo on top of 400 hotel rooms. But structural defects were discovered in the building and this high-end luxury building was cut down to 29 stories. Construction ended in December 2009 with only the core and shell completed. In the dispute with MGM, the Perini company is debating that the construction defects can be repaired. Structural engineers reported to MGM that the tower would likely collapse in a strong earthquake.

In the meantime the $279 building is being used as an expensive billboard. The Harmon sits along prime real estate along the strip across from Planet Hollywood and next to The Cosmopolitan. It's been a while since the last building implosion in Las Vegas which was the New Frontier Hotel in November 2007.

(photo: roig61/flickr)

The Linq To Las Vegas: Opening June 2013

2011-09-14T19:15:00.080-10:00

(all photos: Caesars Entertainment)

There may be dueling observation wheels in Las Vegas if the two projects are actually completed. In May, developers announced the 500-foot Skyvue Las Vegas Super Wheel. Then last month Caesars Entertainment Corp unveiled The Linq project, a $550 million outdoor retail, dining and entertainment district which will include the world's tallest observation wheel at 550 feet called the Las Vegas High Roller. The Linq will be located on the east side of the strip across Caesars Palace.

The High Roller will be taller than the London Eye and will have 28 enclosed, transparent sphere cabins that will hold up to 40 passengers each or 2,240 passengers per hour. Like the London Eye, it will take 30 minutes to make one revolution of the wheel. The attraction is expected to open in 2013.

Caesars also unveiled other details of The Linq project:
- A 200,000 square foot open-air marketplace will hold 30 to 40 retail, dining and entertainment attractions.
- Construction of the project will include the upgrade of three Caesars' properties, the Flamingo, Imperial Palace and O'Sheas.
- The Flamingo will receive a new pedestrian bridge that will connect it to The Linq.
- O'Sheas will be demolished and rebuilt 150 feet east within the Imperial Palace.
- The Imperial Palace will be renamed and transformed with a new facade, porte cochere and hotel reception as well as a remodeled casino.

Included in this post are renderings of The Linq released by Caesars Entertainment.

At this point one can be assured that observation wheels are tourist magnets and they do not have to be constructed in a prime location. The London Eye transformed the South Bank of London bringing thousands of tourist and their money to what was once a much quieter corner of the city. The London Eye was initially a temporary structure to celebrate the millennium. Now it is permanent.

The Waikiki Edition Becomes The Modern Honolulu

2011-09-12T17:53:00.168-10:00

Since I'm a Marriott Rewards member and stayed at The Waikiki Edition back in June, I'm going to add my thoughts about the controversy and lawsuits and counter suits that erupted earlier this month. First of all the reason I stayed at The Waikiki Edition was because of a USA Today article published in May that reported the owners of the hotel, M Waikiki LLC, was suing Marriott and Ian Schrager, the creative partner of the hotel brand. The 27-page lawsuit indicated that they didn't do enough to make the hotel success. The hotel owner indicated they lost $3.9 million in three months of operation.

This was a bad omen and I wanted to stay at the hotel. But if I was going to book a stay I was going to book one while earning Marriott Rewards points. So I called the hotel and their reservations desk gave me a kama'aina rate (local resident rate) of $199 for my Friday night stay. It's probably a rate the owner's were not keen on knowing that the normal rate for a standard room was $379 per night.

I wrote an entire series of posts about The Waikiki Edition praising the property overall. But now and likely indefinitely Aqua Hotels is the new management company for the hotel renamed as The Modern Honolulu after the owners took control of the the hotel from Marriott over the cover of night. Marriott sued and a New York judge returned management to Marriott. But that wasn't it. The owners filed for bankruptcy essentially overriding the judgment and keeping Marriott out.

The huge publicity was due to the fact that The Waikiki Edition was the first hotel in the Edition brand, the newest among Marriott's family of hotels, and the method of the takeover. The only other location in the Edition brand is in Istanbul, Turkey. The brand was Marriott's chance to finally tap into the boutique hotel market that catered to media types that have been attracted to competing brands such as the W Hotel chain.

I have to admit it that if the hotel remained The Waikiki Edition I would have definitely returned for another stay. I live in Hawaii but the one-night staycation in June was an excellent one and I was looking forward to repeating the experience again.

Though I am disappointed that The Waikiki Edition is no longer part of the Marriott chain of hotels, I am not surprised. I have been a Marriott Rewards member since 1995 and there are other hotels at which I've stayed and would have stayed at again should they have remained part of one of the company's brands. So the odds that that hotels change name or brands seems high or it's just by coincidence. Most of these changes are made amicably and with very little publicity in the mass media.

Here are some properties that are no longer part of the Marriott chain, the year when I had stayed at the hotel and the present operator* of the hotel:

Renaissance Parc 55 Hotel (1999) - Now is the Park 55 Wyndham

Renaissance London Chancery Court Hotel (2010) - Now operated by Preferred Hotels simply as the Chancery Court London

Renaissance Ilikai Waikiki Hotel (2003) - Now (ironically) operated by Aqua Hotels as the Ilikai Hotel

Courtyard by Marriott at Disney World (2002) - Now is the Holiday Inn in the Walt Disney World Resort

The lawsuit and counter suit will take a while to settle. It's probably unlikely that The Modern Honolulu would revert back to The Waikiki Edition. Probably Marriott's best bet is seeking a pay day in a damage to their brand. The owner's of the hotel would have to come out of bankruptcy sometime or sell the property.

*These are the present operators of the hotels but the history of these properties may have included other companies managing the hotel before them and after it was part of one of the Marriott hotel brands.

"A Kiss Is A Terrible Thing To Waste" from Andrew Lloyd Webber's Musical 'Whistle Down The Wind'

2011-09-10T08:14:00.192-10:00

Cover of the 1998 Original Cast Recording featuring the London company.

Dean Collison and Veronica Hart in the scene from the original London
production of 'Whistle Down The Wind'.
(photo: reallyuseful.com)

'Whistle Down The Wind' is not one of Andrew Lloyd Webber's successful or well-known musicals. Despite it's shortcoming that lead to a cancelled Broadway premiere in 1997 and a shortened U.S. tour in 2007-2008, the score does boast some of my favorite songs by the composer. Though the original London production which opened 1998 lasted two-and-a-half years, this was not a considerable run for a Lloyd Webber musical.

Cover of the 1997 recording of that preceded the opening
of the show.

Rather than discussing the entire score I'd like to focus on the song "A Kiss Is A Terrible Thing To Waste." Originally the song was featured on the CD collection of select numbers from the musical performed by both American and British artists from the world of pop and the stage. On this album "A Kiss Is A Terrible Thing to Waste" is performed by Meat Loaf. It was rather appropriate since the lyricist is Jim Steinman who is also a composer himself and who has written several of Meat Loaf's biggest hits.

Once the song was featured in the Original London Cast recording, the song was given back to the characters and is sung by actors Dean Collison, Marcus Lovett, Veronica Hart and Lottie Mayor. The song is one of those epic rock numbers that Steinman could have composed himself. Lloyd Webber pulled out his "rock and roll" side when he composed the song.

The box-set collection of Andrew Lloyd Webber
songs that span his career up to 2001.

The version I listen to most often was featured on the five-disc box-set collection of Lloyd Webber songs spanning his career. A previously unreleased version by an experimental group called the Metal Philharmonic Orchestra has awesome vocals by Kyle Gordon and orchestrations that rock.

I've managed to see the original London production and the U.S. Tour and I believe there is still a successful musical within its framework. Critics and audiences have argued what worked or what didn't but the idea is definitely intriguing. In a sentence the show is about three children who find a man in their barn whom they believe to be Jesus.

Recently I discovered an alternately composed version of "A Kiss Is A Terrible Thing To Waste" with two different orchestrations on YouTube.com (posted below). Though each lacks any video, I've been playing either version on my iPad regularly for the past week. One is performed by the Everly Brothers and the other is by Rory Dodd whose vocals have been featured in recordings by Meat Loaf and Steinman. Some sources credit both Steinman and Lloyd Webber but this version was composed in the late 1980s and many music experts agree that these two versions has music and lyrics only by Steinman despite sharing some lyrics and musical motifs with the song of the same title that eventually appeared in 'Whistle Down The Wind.'

By the way you may not be familiar with the musical 'Whistle Down the Wind' but you are likely to have heard one of its songs which was a huge hit for the boy band Boyzone called "No Matter What" (click HERE for a video; or HERE to sample on iTunes).

For your listening pleasure, below are all the versions of the "A Kiss Is A Terrible Thing To Waste" as discussed in this post. Only the version by Meat Loaf includes any actual video. Links to the songs on iTunes and the recordings on Amazon.com are listed down below.

Version by the Metal Philharmonic Orchestra

Version by the Everly Brothers

Version by Rory Dodd (vocals begin at about 2min 10 sec)

Version from the Original Cast Recording featuring Dean Collison, Veronica Hart & Lottie Mayor

Version by Meat Loaf

Listen on iTunes:
(note: "Andrew Lloyd Webber - Now and Forever" and "Songs from Whistle Down the Wind" are not available on iTunes. The version of the song on these recordings have been included on other collections on iTunes listed below. The versions by Rory Dodd and the Everly Brothers are not available on iTunes.)
'Whistle Down The Wind' - Original London Cast (1998)
The Essential Meat Loaf
Andrew Lloyd Webber 60

Find it on Amazon.com:

Disney's Aulani Resort: Welcoming Guests to Hawaii

2011-09-08T22:54:00.169-10:00

This is one in a series of posts about Disney's Aulani Resort & Spa.

Guests will immediately notice that Disney's Aulani Resort was designed and constructed with much care and thought. However one's view of Aulani will depend on how one feels about Disney opening a commercial venture in Hawaii. I myself was impressed with what I viewed as soon as I walked into the open-air lobby. Much has been written in the local press of how the resort celebrates Hawaiian traditions, art, history and culture. Some would would argue that Aulani is not much different from the company's Polynesian Resort at Walt Disney World. But it is different and its designers have as best as possible managed to capture various essences of Hawaii.

There are the obvious features like Kaplepa's which is meant to recall a local country store and Waikohole Valley to resemble a volcano and the water features of the islands. But the most dramatic features is the art and decorative features that is found at almost every corner of the hotel but none more so than in the dramatic lobby.

Even more impressive is that Aulani as a whole claims to have on display one of the largest collections of contemporary Hawaiian art. Over 200 pieces of original art were commissioned by Disney for Aulani with many by Native Hawaiian artists. As a taste the photos above and below gives one glimpses of the design and decor of the resort's lobby.

Though the towers envelope the property, the lobby which overlooks the property gives one a vista that is indeed breathtaking from the manmade features that is Waikohole Valley, which has been manicured with landscaping that seems to have been growing before Aulani's creation, to the Pacific Ocean just beyond.

Side note: I was quite bewildered by more than one guest staring at rocks at Aulani. Apparently in keeping with the spirit of other Disney resorts, the image of Mickey Mouse or "missing Mickeys" is hidden from rock to the wallpaper.

FROM THE OUTSIDE
Walking from the resort's parking structure to the hotel entrance one can only admire the detail that is the Waianae Tower. It's probably best that the feast for the eyes awaits behind this tower. It must be mentioned that the footpath leading from the parking is not on the ground level of the structure but mid-level. Then it's a walk along the mountain side of the Waianae Tower then a few more steps to the entrance beneath the porte cochere (note: valet parking available).

I have to admit that driving along Farrington Highway on the way to the exit road to Ko Olina the two resort towers dominate the landscape even from a distance. But I'd much rather view and admire the economic difference that Aulani will make for the residents of the Leeward community in terms of jobs and spending from visitors.

Porte cochere

Mauka side of Wai'anae Tower.

Road leading to port cochere and main hotel entrance.

Disney's Aulani Resort: Makahiki & The 'Olelo Room

2011-09-07T18:23:00.139-10:00

This is one in a series of posts about Disney's Aulani Resort & Spa.

Because of the time of day when I visited Disney's Aulani Resort on Friday the main restaurants were not open as they were preparing for dinner service. The beachside lounge called Off The Hook was open but busy with guests enjoying the afternoon sun and view of the beach. I was not able to view the resort's fine dining restaurant 'Ama'Ama but I have definite plans to visit it in the future and will publish a post of the experience.

The above photos are of Makahiki (a Hawaiian reference to a "festival") which features a dinner and breakfast buffet. On select days a Disney Character breakfast is offered on (check with the concierge or restaurant for scheduled dates). A striking red mural greets visitors entering the dining room. Look closely and see Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire and volcanoes.

Makahiki is open 7am-11am for breakfast and costs $14 for children (ages 9 and under) and $27 for adults. The character breakfast officially called Aunty's Breakfast Celebration is priced $18 for children and $32 for adults. Dinner served from 5pm-10pm is much pricier at $43 for adults and $21 for children. The links below connect to the restaurant's sample menu which is subject to change:
Breakfast Menu
Dinner Menu
Click HERE to make a reservation to Makahiki or 'Ama'Ama.

The 'Olelo Room (pictured above) is a bar and lounge that adjoins Makahiki. It is open for a continental breakfast (6am-10am) and appetizers and drinks during dinner (5pm-11pm). This bar and lounge takes its name from the Hawaiian word for "voice" and hence the decor is labeled with their Hawaiian names. The staff at 'Olelo must also know the Hawaiian language. The lounge does not accept reservations.

VIEW FROM THE OUTSIDE
One of the attractions of both Makahiki and 'Olelo is that both are open to the elements as guests have a view of the resort's Waikolohe Valley recreation playground. A calming fountain and waterfall embrace the restaurant guests.

Disney's Aulani Resort: 'Ewa and Wai'anae Towers

2011-09-06T23:04:00.047-10:00

(photos except where noted: TheHopefulTraveler)

(photo credit: David Roark/Disney Destinations/Associated Press/LATimes)

This is one in a series of posts about Disney's Aulani Resort & Spa.

The two towers at Disney's Aulani Resort & Spa hold a total of 359 hotel room including 16 suites and 460 Disney Vacation Club Villas including 21 Grand Villas. The Grand Villas accommodates up to 12 guests in a 2,174 square foot retreat. As is typical with other Hawaii hotels, ocean view rooms are considered an upgrade and priced higher. View options are classified as standard view, ocean view, partial ocean view, poolside gardens view and island gardens view. Don't be surprised at $399 rates for standard rooms.

This post includes various perspectives of the two towers. Also included is a photo published in the L.A. Times of the interior of one of the guest rooms. Hotel rooms range in size from 382 square feet for a standard room to the 1,910 square foot 'Ahu 'Ula Suite. This suite accommodates up to six guests and includes a king-size bed in the master bedroom, one queen-size bed and one queen-size sleeper sofa in a second bedroom and three full bathrooms. Click HERE to make online reservations.

The names of the tower is reference to where each is situated: One faces the 'Ewa plain and the other faces towards the Wai'anae coast.

Each tower is quite breathtaking when one notices the detail applied to each compared to the white monolith of the neighboring hotel.

Disney's Aulani Resort: Waikolohe Valley

2011-09-05T22:03:00.102-10:00

This is one in a series of posts about Disney's Aulani Resort & Spa.

The central playground at Disney's Aulani Resort is a striking feature called Waikolohe Valley which is roughly translated as "mischievous water." From first appearances it looks like the attraction is just as popular with the adults as it is with the younger guests. Of course it could have been that more adults than children were staying at the resort during this time. It's looks inviting that I wouldn't mind experiencing the feature at least once.

Though none of the features appear to be a thrill-ride type, hotel water safety employees are stationed at various points. Waikolohe Stream includes two tubing attractions that begin at the top of Pu'u Kilo, the volcano-like structure that dominate the playground. The 8,200-square-foot zero-entry pool is meant to mimic a beach. Other features include:

Rainbow Reef - A private snorkeling lagoon where the aquatic life can also be viewed behind a glass.
Menehune Bridge - An interactive play area that includes three slides resembles a maze-like jungle gym. In Hawaiian folklore Menehunes are "little people" responsible for mysterious occurrences.
Wailana Pool - Separated from the main pool, this serves as the relaxing alternative.
Makai Preserve - A conservation pool requiring reservations and admission where marine biologists guides guests in encounters with stingrays. Proceeds support research and conservation. Makai means "towards the ocean."
Whirlpool Spas - Four of them with two offering sunset views and advertised for parents to enjoy while their children is at play at the resort's playhouse.
Poolside Cabanas - Each of the eight private cabanas accommodates up to six guests and includes a flat-screen television, ceiling fan, refrigerator, WiFi, fruit bowl and complementary bottled water. Reservations are required at the concierge desk and private dining is available.

Although it has been reported that Waikolohe Valley is open for non-guests, resort guests wearing official wristbands will have priority access. The lagoon fronting Aulani is considered a public beach and not exclusive to hotel guests. However the controversy is parking options are limited for persons not staying at any of resorts in Ko Olina where Aulani is located.

Disney's Aulani Resort: Shopping at Kalepa's Store

2011-09-04T16:50:00.041-10:00

(photos credit: TheHopefulTraveler)

This is one in a series of posts about Disney's Aulani Resort & Spa.

You've got to hand to it to the Walt Disney Co. for being understated in their retail efforts at the newly opened Aulani resort in Hawaii. Kalepa's Store serves both as convenience store and souvenir shop. Particularly attractive to Disney fans is all the new merchandise with the Aulani name. I was actually surprise that for a resort that include time-shares with kitchens that the grocery items are very limited. Disney Vacation Club members can submit an order form to have grocery items delivered to their room. But nearby is Kapolei's shopping district which includes major retailers such as Target, Costco, K-Mart and a Wal-Mart (the latter currently under construction) as well as several restaurants and eateries.

Disney's Aulani Resort: What's Up With the Cost of Parking?

2011-09-03T07:30:00.045-10:00

This is one in a series of posts about Disney's Aulani Resort & Spa.

Honolulu, Hawaii has some of the most expensive parking rates in the United States and it appears the cost extends to the island of Oahu's leeward side in Ko Olina. Above is the parking rates for Walt Disney Co.'s Aulani resort. Valet parking is the same price with the addition of tips. Yesterday the price for wondering around the newly opened complex cost me ten bucks. However if you make a purchase of $35 at the resort's restaurants there is complementary parking for four hours.

For hotel guests who are not Disney Vacation Club members, the true cost of the room would have to include the additional fee for parking. Since mass transit is not convenient in the area, almost all guests would require the use of a rental car. It should be noted that the self-parking requires a short walk to resort's main entrance and with the self-pay kiosk there is no parking attendant. Also it's a wonder when the resort is at capacity if there will be enough parking for all guests including those visiting to dine at one of the restaurants or to attend a conference. There is no public parking around Aulani.

Disney's Aulani Resort Opens in Ko Olina, Hawaii

2011-09-02T23:30:00.131-10:00

(all photos except where noted: TheHopefulTraveler)

(photo credit: Paul Hiffmeyer/LATimes)

This is one in a series of posts about Disney's Aulani Resort & Spa.

The Walt Disney Co. finally opened Aulani, an $800 million oceanfront hotel and vacation club, in Ko Olina on the leeward side of Hawaii's island of Oahu after nearly three years of construction. Today I had the chance to wonder around the 21-acre property and over the next few posts will publish the photos from my visit and information about the resort. The soft opening officially welcomed guests this past week with the official opening date scheduled later this month.

Aulani translates into "messenger of a chief" or as Disney has reported, "One who speaks on behalf of a higher power." Photographed at top is the Ewa tower of the two-tower resort and below it is an L.A. Times photo overlooking the property. Below is a map and legend (click on either photo to view a larger version) located on the complex.

Thought was placed into the physical layout which creates a facsimile of a "ahupuaa" (mountain-to-sea land division). The two towers represent mountains creating a central valley filled with flowing water that connects beautifully the beach and Pacific Ocean just steps away from the hotel.

The resort is located 21 miles west of Honolulu in Ko Olina on the leeward side of Hawaii's island of Oahu. The man-made lagoons with white sandy beaches is the physical trademark of the 621-acres that is Ko Olina. Other hotels and resorts in the area are the JW Marriott Ihilani Ko Olina Resort & Spa, Ko Olina Beach Villas Resort and Marriott's Ko Olina Beach Club. Unlike Waikiki the area represents an exclusive and uncrowded option. Also located within Ko Olina is the 18-hole Ko Olina Golf Club, Ko Olina Beach Park, Ko Olina Marina and the Paradise Cove luau. Ko Olina is part of Oahu's second city of Kapolei where the town center nearby represents the closest option for shopping, dining and entertainment including a 16-theatre multiplex and the Wet'n'Wild water park.

Also of note is that Ko Olina, being on the leeward side of the island, has practically perfect sunny weather year round that is warmer and dryer than other parts of the island.