I'm quite excited for this summer's line-up of free outdoor films.
Here are some of the locations are super convenient for me AND have films that I love:
David Pecaut Square
Harbourfront Centre
Yonge-Dundas Square
I think I will be spending many a Wednesday evening in August at David Pecaut Square (was Metro Square - see, I told you there's a lot of cool things happening there!)
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Sunday, June 26, 2011
My first auction
I think this was the first auction that I've attended. I'm not including the auctions for charity that take place at school and I'm also not including silent auctions.
I thought for my first foray into the auction world, I should go with something pretty splashy. Thus, I attended Waddington's - An Important Auction of Dresses from the Collection of Diana, Princess of Wales.
This past Wednesday, I wrote of attending the viewing to suss out the situation and to see the dresses in person. I'd actually seen them before, back in 2007 when I visited Kensington Palace and they were on display there. Still, they are beautiful and looking at evening gowns isn't too hard on the eyes.
At the preview, I chatted with two of Waddington's staff. In my previous post, I talked about the sincerity and welcome that one gave me. Enough to dismiss an reservations about attending the auction the following night. The other staffer was pleasant enough, but when I
chatted with her about the history of the dresses and the consignor, it seemed a little bit more forced. Maybe it would have helped if I had done my homework. Turns out the consignor, Maureen Dunkel had decided to part with the dresses (partly) because she's facing bankruptcy. While I don't doubt this fact, I'm not completely willing to think ill of her like some of the online accounts seem to want you to do. It's good press, right? I was told that the timing of the decision coincided with the announcement that Will and Kate were engaged and that Maureen thought that this chapter with Diana is ending as Will and Kate's chapter is starting. The date of the auction had apparently been decided prior to the announcement of Will and Kate's North American tour.
The venue of the auction was rather simple. Waddington's is moving to a new location soon, so as a first time attendee, who knows if the current room is usually a little bit more refined, but I doubt that's the case. I suppose simple and understated isn't a bad thing.
That seemed to be the theme of the entire night. Sauf les robes and some well dressed attendees, it was a pretty tame night.
The 14 lots came and went and all but one went under or at the bottom end of the estimates. The "Travolta"-dress went for $800 000. This price, however, does not include the commission and taxes, which means that buyers will be paying about 30% more than their bidding price.
Duncan McLean acted as the auctioneer for the night and at times seemed to be pleading with the bidders to get in the action. Most bidders (if not all - I couldn't tell for sure, because the bidders were
ridiculously discrete and I wasn't seated at a good vantage point to see who was doing what) were in attendance or at least had someone doing their bidding for them through the phone. There was a table set up with phones and computers for Waddington's staff to take bids from those who were not in attendance, and although each time I looked over, they seemed to be whispering into their phones, I didn't see any hands waving.
Of course I don't know for sure how many people were actually there to observe. Obviously, I had no intent in bidding, and I could gather that there were many other people there in the same mindset. I did see a couple folks who had evidence that they were registered bidders, but again, if they were getting in on the action, they were doing it very subtly.
There was lots of press and media presence. It seemed like it was a big deal. And there was media coverage leading up to the event as well, but I wonder why they didn't go for the estimates. And I wonder if Waddington's is disappointed with the turn-out or final prices. Mr. McLean made comments about how short the auction was and how the prices were a steal.
Of course I don't know who ended up with the dresses and for what purpose they bought them, but maybe we'll find out in due course. Perhaps a museum will acquire one/two/a few or maybe someone will just enjoy seeing the dress(es) in their closet.
The mystique. The intrigue!
So the auction was a neat experience. No crazy bidding wars at this one, but there are more auctions to come, so maybe I will experience a frenzy of bids at a future event. There are two this week that sound kind if interesting! There is way too much going on in the city.
I thought for my first foray into the auction world, I should go with something pretty splashy. Thus, I attended Waddington's - An Important Auction of Dresses from the Collection of Diana, Princess of Wales.
This past Wednesday, I wrote of attending the viewing to suss out the situation and to see the dresses in person. I'd actually seen them before, back in 2007 when I visited Kensington Palace and they were on display there. Still, they are beautiful and looking at evening gowns isn't too hard on the eyes.
At the preview, I chatted with two of Waddington's staff. In my previous post, I talked about the sincerity and welcome that one gave me. Enough to dismiss an reservations about attending the auction the following night. The other staffer was pleasant enough, but when I
chatted with her about the history of the dresses and the consignor, it seemed a little bit more forced. Maybe it would have helped if I had done my homework. Turns out the consignor, Maureen Dunkel had decided to part with the dresses (partly) because she's facing bankruptcy. While I don't doubt this fact, I'm not completely willing to think ill of her like some of the online accounts seem to want you to do. It's good press, right? I was told that the timing of the decision coincided with the announcement that Will and Kate were engaged and that Maureen thought that this chapter with Diana is ending as Will and Kate's chapter is starting. The date of the auction had apparently been decided prior to the announcement of Will and Kate's North American tour.The venue of the auction was rather simple. Waddington's is moving to a new location soon, so as a first time attendee, who knows if the current room is usually a little bit more refined, but I doubt that's the case. I suppose simple and understated isn't a bad thing.
That seemed to be the theme of the entire night. Sauf les robes and some well dressed attendees, it was a pretty tame night.
The 14 lots came and went and all but one went under or at the bottom end of the estimates. The "Travolta"-dress went for $800 000. This price, however, does not include the commission and taxes, which means that buyers will be paying about 30% more than their bidding price.
Duncan McLean acted as the auctioneer for the night and at times seemed to be pleading with the bidders to get in the action. Most bidders (if not all - I couldn't tell for sure, because the bidders were
ridiculously discrete and I wasn't seated at a good vantage point to see who was doing what) were in attendance or at least had someone doing their bidding for them through the phone. There was a table set up with phones and computers for Waddington's staff to take bids from those who were not in attendance, and although each time I looked over, they seemed to be whispering into their phones, I didn't see any hands waving.Of course I don't know for sure how many people were actually there to observe. Obviously, I had no intent in bidding, and I could gather that there were many other people there in the same mindset. I did see a couple folks who had evidence that they were registered bidders, but again, if they were getting in on the action, they were doing it very subtly.
There was lots of press and media presence. It seemed like it was a big deal. And there was media coverage leading up to the event as well, but I wonder why they didn't go for the estimates. And I wonder if Waddington's is disappointed with the turn-out or final prices. Mr. McLean made comments about how short the auction was and how the prices were a steal.
Of course I don't know who ended up with the dresses and for what purpose they bought them, but maybe we'll find out in due course. Perhaps a museum will acquire one/two/a few or maybe someone will just enjoy seeing the dress(es) in their closet.
The mystique. The intrigue!
So the auction was a neat experience. No crazy bidding wars at this one, but there are more auctions to come, so maybe I will experience a frenzy of bids at a future event. There are two this week that sound kind if interesting! There is way too much going on in the city.
I wish I were more tech-savvy
Although I know how to post pictures, videos and do the most basic html codes ever, I kind of wish I could do more. I like the colour scheme and template of my blog, but I wish I could tweak it just a little bit. I've tried to tamper with the coding of my template, but it doesn't seem to work in any way. I don't want to make any significant change or anything, just improve an already great looking (in my opinion) page.
I'm wondering if it's time to move to another hosting site. I started at livejournal an then found that I enjoyed blogger a little bit more. Just today, I looked up WordPress and tried to see its pros and cons.
Blogger has new templates that allow for more user customization, but I do like my current background (colours and pictures). Also, I haven't printed out my blog for my book yet. I'm scared that if I leave this current one, as it's an older style, I won't be able to go back if I don't like the newer ones.
I'm wondering if it's time to move to another hosting site. I started at livejournal an then found that I enjoyed blogger a little bit more. Just today, I looked up WordPress and tried to see its pros and cons.
Blogger has new templates that allow for more user customization, but I do like my current background (colours and pictures). Also, I haven't printed out my blog for my book yet. I'm scared that if I leave this current one, as it's an older style, I won't be able to go back if I don't like the newer ones.
The Luminato Mp3 Experiment
As I eluded to in a previous post, I attended The Luminato Mp3 Experiment. I love Improv Everywhere and often post their missions on my blog. I like to spread the IE love. I think it would be pretty amazing to be an Agent in one of their missions, but they're based in Manhattan and although they have done a couple missions elsewhere, they have a base list of agents to draw from and again, the location doesn't help matters.
There was a local group that tried to do similar missions, but not quite to the same aplomb. I decided to give them a chance and tried to join a flash mob dance mission, but it was a little awkward. I'm not giving up though. I did do a pseudo-flash mob at the end of February, but I'm not fully satisfied with my flash-mob experiences. I know that there will be more opportunities in the future, and I fully intend to be a flash-mob veteran.
Although I love the scripted IE missions, I am happy to participant their other missions, in this case, the Luminato Mp3 Experiment. IE has been doing them for a couple years now in NY, but other cities are now also able to take part (yippee!). Same goes for their scripted No Pants Missions, but I'm not brave enough to take part in that one.
The premise of the Mp3 Experiments is that everyone downloads the same audio file, loads it onto a personal audio device, agents synchronize their watches, meet at a predetermined spot at a specific time and start playing the audio file at a predetermined time. The agents then listen and act/dance/sing/complete the 'whatever' they're told to do through their headphones. As with all of the missions, agents are not supposed to tell non-agents that they are part of a mission.
If you couldn't already tell, I was really stoked to be able to participate in this mission. Participation did have its challenges, however. The first, getting a personal audio device. Sure, I live in the era of MP3 players, i-gadgets, and the like, but I don't own such a device. I barely have a cell phone and it is a hand-me-down. I'm not a luddite, I just don't feel the need to have these specific devices. I don't find it terribly important to be able to privately listen to something while in public. A friend laughed at me when I told him that I like to listen to the world instead, but it's true. So, the most difficult part about becoming an agent for this mission was having the equipment to do so. There were many people whom I was able to borrow audio-devices from, but as I was planning for the mission, I couldn't help but think about accessibility issues. Definitely a by-product of my field, I pondered what the organizers took for granted, who they might be alienating, and what they could have done differently to make the mission more accessible. As this was the first time that I seemed to be 'excluded' for such a trivial thing, my mind started racing about these issues. Yes, I know that this example is a little far-fetched, but it is proof that things are more meaningful when you can make a personal connection to it. I was able to think about issues that often arise in my field in a different way. Wow, I really digressed this time.
So, with a borrowed MP3 player and headphones in tow, I journeyed over to the assigned meeting point of my birth month group. I had no idea
how many people would turn up for this event, nor what kind of demographic it would be but I guess that's just another surprise of it all. I'd say the average age of participants was 20-35 with of course some tykes and more mature folks sprinkled in for good measure (a-ha...what did I say about accessibility issues! Just kidding.).
It was lovely to hear the familiar voice of Steve welcoming us to the mission. We eased into the mission by stretching individually and then doing some activities that had use interact with some other agents. I wonder if Steve plans the flow of these missions so that we slowly develop our comfort level instead of jarring us into doing zany tasks. As in, having us do things individually in our own space, then find out who else is participating, sharing our space by having us minimally interact, then developing the amount of interaction, and then having us do more and more non-normative things. I must the be only person who reads into missions.
Agents were divided up into two group based on birth month and each group started in a different location. We did some tasks in these groups in these separate locations. The location that I started in was in a park that was accessible to the public, but far enough away from the busy traffic that drivers may notice people in coloured shirts doing something, but not entirely sure what was going on. There was construction around the are, so I think it didn't get as much foot traffic as it usually would.
So, to bring us into a more public space we walked through the streets on our way to a second location where we would meet up with the
other group. Before we went on our way, we were told some of the ground rules of the mission, in that we needed to blend in and act like we weren't doing anything special. We were told that if we had disguises, it might help us to blend in. So we gave ourselves finger-moustaches.
Our journey to the next meeting point was well organized. We had police escorts, Luminato volunteers watching over us, and a girl with a multi-coloured hat leading the way. It was quite impressive. It was during our walk when it became obvious to me that there were a lot of us participating, and also a lot of people not participating. The looks of those who happened to stumble upon our mob or those in their vehicles who were equally intrigued at what was going on. No one approached me to ask what was going on, but my lip- and body language-reading skills told me that they had no idea what was happening but loved it all the same.
So these are all pictures that I took during the mission. I wanted to take more, but it would have meant not participating in the mission to its fullest extent. Some previous Mp3 Experiments ask agents to bring certain things that they may need for the mission. In this mission all we needed was a device that could take a picture. Some examples of activities that we were asked to do were: have a thumb-war with another person, have a square-dance, take naps on the floor (I would have loved an aerial shot of this), freeze in place, give high-fives to non-agents, play follow the leader with a non-agent, take pictures of other agents, play human twister, and play freeze tag.
The two groups converged in Metro Square (seems to be a hotbed of action these days - are they trying to make it a place for things to happen?) and kind of interrupted an event that was taking place
onstage. We played more games, took more naps, and even got to watch ourselves in the jumbotron. This picture was taken around the same time that the picture from my teaser post was taken. As a green-shirted folk who was stuck in the middle of the bulls eye (oh, yeah - we played human darts too) for a wee while, I figured I would snap a couple pictures while waiting for the rest of the colours to create the outer rings.
I must have started my track a couple seconds after many other folks, because throughout the mission, I seemed to be doing things towards the tail end of everyone else. This was not very convenient for the portion of the mission in which we played tag.
The mission lasted for about 40minutes. Sounds like a long time, but it was over too quickly. Although I enjoyed myself immensely, after the fact, I was a little disappointed when I realized that most (if not all) of our tasks were ones that had been used in other years. As I've seen highlights of other Mp3 Experiments, I would have liked to do something a little different that really would have given me a chance to be impressed with their creativity. This is not to say that I didn't appreciate the event and that I didn't enjoy it. Of course I did! I enjoyed everything about it (except for being tagged before I knew what was happening - doh!). I liked being an agent, I liked having a dance-party, I liked playing games, I liked taking naps, I liked doing crazy-walks, and I liked seeing the reaction of non-agents.
So, Mission complete and I can't wait for the next one!
There was a local group that tried to do similar missions, but not quite to the same aplomb. I decided to give them a chance and tried to join a flash mob dance mission, but it was a little awkward. I'm not giving up though. I did do a pseudo-flash mob at the end of February, but I'm not fully satisfied with my flash-mob experiences. I know that there will be more opportunities in the future, and I fully intend to be a flash-mob veteran.
Although I love the scripted IE missions, I am happy to participant their other missions, in this case, the Luminato Mp3 Experiment. IE has been doing them for a couple years now in NY, but other cities are now also able to take part (yippee!). Same goes for their scripted No Pants Missions, but I'm not brave enough to take part in that one.
The premise of the Mp3 Experiments is that everyone downloads the same audio file, loads it onto a personal audio device, agents synchronize their watches, meet at a predetermined spot at a specific time and start playing the audio file at a predetermined time. The agents then listen and act/dance/sing/complete the 'whatever' they're told to do through their headphones. As with all of the missions, agents are not supposed to tell non-agents that they are part of a mission.
If you couldn't already tell, I was really stoked to be able to participate in this mission. Participation did have its challenges, however. The first, getting a personal audio device. Sure, I live in the era of MP3 players, i-gadgets, and the like, but I don't own such a device. I barely have a cell phone and it is a hand-me-down. I'm not a luddite, I just don't feel the need to have these specific devices. I don't find it terribly important to be able to privately listen to something while in public. A friend laughed at me when I told him that I like to listen to the world instead, but it's true. So, the most difficult part about becoming an agent for this mission was having the equipment to do so. There were many people whom I was able to borrow audio-devices from, but as I was planning for the mission, I couldn't help but think about accessibility issues. Definitely a by-product of my field, I pondered what the organizers took for granted, who they might be alienating, and what they could have done differently to make the mission more accessible. As this was the first time that I seemed to be 'excluded' for such a trivial thing, my mind started racing about these issues. Yes, I know that this example is a little far-fetched, but it is proof that things are more meaningful when you can make a personal connection to it. I was able to think about issues that often arise in my field in a different way. Wow, I really digressed this time.
So, with a borrowed MP3 player and headphones in tow, I journeyed over to the assigned meeting point of my birth month group. I had no idea
how many people would turn up for this event, nor what kind of demographic it would be but I guess that's just another surprise of it all. I'd say the average age of participants was 20-35 with of course some tykes and more mature folks sprinkled in for good measure (a-ha...what did I say about accessibility issues! Just kidding.).It was lovely to hear the familiar voice of Steve welcoming us to the mission. We eased into the mission by stretching individually and then doing some activities that had use interact with some other agents. I wonder if Steve plans the flow of these missions so that we slowly develop our comfort level instead of jarring us into doing zany tasks. As in, having us do things individually in our own space, then find out who else is participating, sharing our space by having us minimally interact, then developing the amount of interaction, and then having us do more and more non-normative things. I must the be only person who reads into missions.
Agents were divided up into two group based on birth month and each group started in a different location. We did some tasks in these groups in these separate locations. The location that I started in was in a park that was accessible to the public, but far enough away from the busy traffic that drivers may notice people in coloured shirts doing something, but not entirely sure what was going on. There was construction around the are, so I think it didn't get as much foot traffic as it usually would.
So, to bring us into a more public space we walked through the streets on our way to a second location where we would meet up with the
other group. Before we went on our way, we were told some of the ground rules of the mission, in that we needed to blend in and act like we weren't doing anything special. We were told that if we had disguises, it might help us to blend in. So we gave ourselves finger-moustaches.Our journey to the next meeting point was well organized. We had police escorts, Luminato volunteers watching over us, and a girl with a multi-coloured hat leading the way. It was quite impressive. It was during our walk when it became obvious to me that there were a lot of us participating, and also a lot of people not participating. The looks of those who happened to stumble upon our mob or those in their vehicles who were equally intrigued at what was going on. No one approached me to ask what was going on, but my lip- and body language-reading skills told me that they had no idea what was happening but loved it all the same.
So these are all pictures that I took during the mission. I wanted to take more, but it would have meant not participating in the mission to its fullest extent. Some previous Mp3 Experiments ask agents to bring certain things that they may need for the mission. In this mission all we needed was a device that could take a picture. Some examples of activities that we were asked to do were: have a thumb-war with another person, have a square-dance, take naps on the floor (I would have loved an aerial shot of this), freeze in place, give high-fives to non-agents, play follow the leader with a non-agent, take pictures of other agents, play human twister, and play freeze tag.
The two groups converged in Metro Square (seems to be a hotbed of action these days - are they trying to make it a place for things to happen?) and kind of interrupted an event that was taking place
onstage. We played more games, took more naps, and even got to watch ourselves in the jumbotron. This picture was taken around the same time that the picture from my teaser post was taken. As a green-shirted folk who was stuck in the middle of the bulls eye (oh, yeah - we played human darts too) for a wee while, I figured I would snap a couple pictures while waiting for the rest of the colours to create the outer rings.I must have started my track a couple seconds after many other folks, because throughout the mission, I seemed to be doing things towards the tail end of everyone else. This was not very convenient for the portion of the mission in which we played tag.
The mission lasted for about 40minutes. Sounds like a long time, but it was over too quickly. Although I enjoyed myself immensely, after the fact, I was a little disappointed when I realized that most (if not all) of our tasks were ones that had been used in other years. As I've seen highlights of other Mp3 Experiments, I would have liked to do something a little different that really would have given me a chance to be impressed with their creativity. This is not to say that I didn't appreciate the event and that I didn't enjoy it. Of course I did! I enjoyed everything about it (except for being tagged before I knew what was happening - doh!). I liked being an agent, I liked having a dance-party, I liked playing games, I liked taking naps, I liked doing crazy-walks, and I liked seeing the reaction of non-agents.
So, Mission complete and I can't wait for the next one!
Friday, June 24, 2011
Neil Patrick Harris vs. Hugh Jackman
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Lost in a cloud
It's kind of unnerving when you finally look up from your computer after being caught up in your work, to look out the window and enjoy a great view and then you see nothing. There is a ridiculous fog out there.
Stoked
I've been eying a well-established auction house that's in my area, thinking that at some point, I'd like to attend an auction. I think it would take quite a long time for me to feel comfortable about the process and be knowledgeable about the products for me to place a bid, but I've very intrigued with the whole idea.
Like most people, I have some idea of what an auction is like. Of course there are auctions for flowers/produce/livestock and then there are auctions for art/jewellery. My stint in Europe helped spark my interest and slight understanding of the world as the Brits seems to be quite into auctions and I would happily watch Bargain Hunt anytime that I could catch it.
For me, it's not the idea of potentially buying an object that interests me so much as understanding and appreciating the art of the auction. How viewings are set up, the knowledge and skill that's required of the auctioneer, the strategy and emotion of the bidder...it must be the people-watcher in me coming out. I should be an ethnographer.
Anyway, I attended a viewing today and wasn't really sure what the climate of the auction-house would be like. You never know with these kinds of things. I was pleasantly surprised to see how laid-back it seemed to be. I mean, there was a definite dignified feel to it, but I was expecting a little bit more, I don't know, pomp and circumstance to it all. Maybe it's just like that at Christie's.
I chatted with someone on their team who kindly walked me through the process without making me feel inferior. She enthusiastically invited me back for the auction and I most definitely will take her up on her offer. I suppose it's all good customer service as one would hope to receive in any service industry, but that doesn't always seems to be the case. Although it was clear to her that I will definitely not be placing a bid at tomorrow night's auction, I think she saw that I was truly interested in the world and that who knows, I could be a purchaser in the future. Or a consigner. Or even just spread positive words about their auction house.
Never underestimate the power of good service.
Like most people, I have some idea of what an auction is like. Of course there are auctions for flowers/produce/livestock and then there are auctions for art/jewellery. My stint in Europe helped spark my interest and slight understanding of the world as the Brits seems to be quite into auctions and I would happily watch Bargain Hunt anytime that I could catch it.
For me, it's not the idea of potentially buying an object that interests me so much as understanding and appreciating the art of the auction. How viewings are set up, the knowledge and skill that's required of the auctioneer, the strategy and emotion of the bidder...it must be the people-watcher in me coming out. I should be an ethnographer.
Anyway, I attended a viewing today and wasn't really sure what the climate of the auction-house would be like. You never know with these kinds of things. I was pleasantly surprised to see how laid-back it seemed to be. I mean, there was a definite dignified feel to it, but I was expecting a little bit more, I don't know, pomp and circumstance to it all. Maybe it's just like that at Christie's.
I chatted with someone on their team who kindly walked me through the process without making me feel inferior. She enthusiastically invited me back for the auction and I most definitely will take her up on her offer. I suppose it's all good customer service as one would hope to receive in any service industry, but that doesn't always seems to be the case. Although it was clear to her that I will definitely not be placing a bid at tomorrow night's auction, I think she saw that I was truly interested in the world and that who knows, I could be a purchaser in the future. Or a consigner. Or even just spread positive words about their auction house.
Never underestimate the power of good service.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
A return to the TSO
I can't remember the last time that I went to a concert at Roy Thomson Hall. It was either a Yo-Yo Ma concert or a Christmas/New Year's concert in the style of Andre Rieu, complete with gaudy outfits and bad ballet dancers.
Since returning back to Canada, I've only been to one classical concert. It's embarrassing. I'm not entirely sure why I haven't attended more. I think that for awhile it had to do with me not wanting to attend a concert by myself as I was in a phase of weird, social insecurity, but that's been blown out of the water so although I enjoy going to events with others, I'm willing to go on my own if I really need an outing and/or there's an event that I really want to attend.
I also thought that it might have been something to do with budget constraints, but with tsoundcheck still in full swing, I can't really use that as an excuse. I had attended a concert or two as a tsoundcheck member when the program first started up way back in the day and I remember how back then, you had to buy tickets on-site and you couldn't select your seat, you just took whatever they gave you. That always stuck with me, and as I'm so particular with seating (and everything else - an admitted control freak), it wasn't really my cup of tea. Perhaps this component of the program has contributed to me staying away.
Luckily, times have changed, the price has gone up (just minimally) and if you call in (instead of selecting your seat on the internet), you can get a little bit of choice in the matter.
I think the other unfortunate thing about tsoundcheck is that it's not available for all concerts. I'm not interested in every single concert that the TSO has to offer to that's probably held me back as well.
I also managed to fall off of their members' mailing list, so not having a constant reminder of what I'm missing out on probably didn't help matters.
Recently, the stars aligned and I found a concert that I wanted to attend, had tsoundcheck tickets available, allowed for some choice of seating...I couldn't say no. As soon as I arrived on-site, I scolded myself for not returning to the attend the TSO sooner.
Roy Thomson Hall is gorgeous, the TSO is wonderful and if you're seated on the Main Floor, it's pretty much impossible to have a bad seat. One thing that I did notice and that didn't seem familiar was the strange muted volume of the orchestra. Was the hall always so strange? I'm hoping that it was just where I was seated and that I was under the overhang of the Mezzanine. I hope it's not just the general acoustics of the place.
The concert itself was great. It was part of the "Rachmaninoff & the Impressionists" series and the main draw for me was Rachmaninoff's Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Op. 43. That piece gets me every single time. The only other piece in the programme that interested me was Dukas' The Sorcerer's Apprentice. Broomsticks and hippos danced happily in my head.
I appreciated the intros given by Maestro Peter Oundjian. He gave us the background for each piece, some historical context and key points to listen for. The main thing I got from his talk: the Dies Irae theme is everywhere.
Coincidentally, Gabriela Montero, the pianist whom I'd heard in the last classical concert that I've been to was the soloist at this concert. Her interpretation of the Rachmaninoff was lovely, but I was also excited for you parlour trick to come. Now knowing that Torontonian audiences will give a standing ovation to anything and everything (I disagree with this practice. I think it lessens impact of a standing ovation that's truly warranted), I knew that Ms. Montero would be obliged to improvise. Unfortunately, many of my fellow concert-goers were not quite as knowledgeable as I was (nor did they bother to read the programme) and at least 20% of the audience that was in my line of sight left the hall during the numerous curtain calls. Luckily, Ms. Montero didn't prolong the ovation to ridiculous lengths and started explaining what she'd be doing for her encore as some folks were still making their way out the door. They all realized that the concert was still ongoing and many stood in the aisles as she continued to entertain the audience.
The first audience suggestion was Gershwin's Summertime and she did a lovely little medley based on the main motif. It was impressive, but it solidified my already brewing thought that she does have a pretty standard skeletal structure that she follows within each style.
The second audience suggestion was a lot more local. After squashing a Latin American classic, she coaxed the audience to suggest a song that was a little bit more Canadian. I'm glad that the suggestion of the National Anthem didn't take, but instead she went with the theme from Hockey Night in Canada. It took a little bit of time for someone to try to sing the melody for her (actually, there was one audience member who did a great job, but when the attention was drawn to them and they were asked to repeat their singing, they got terribly shy and the hall went absolutely silent) and she had actually started to play an inaccurate version of the melody until a TSO member saved the day. A talent that I can't seem to master, this violinist played the entire tune by ear. It was a classicized version completed with vibrato, but the melody was definitely in tact. The audience took great glee in his efforts and even more glee when Ms. Montero immediately turned it into a tango. Now that's a great parlour trick to have up your sleeve!
So, the moral of the story is that I had a great time and that I need to make concert outings part of my regular rotation.
Since returning back to Canada, I've only been to one classical concert. It's embarrassing. I'm not entirely sure why I haven't attended more. I think that for awhile it had to do with me not wanting to attend a concert by myself as I was in a phase of weird, social insecurity, but that's been blown out of the water so although I enjoy going to events with others, I'm willing to go on my own if I really need an outing and/or there's an event that I really want to attend.
I also thought that it might have been something to do with budget constraints, but with tsoundcheck still in full swing, I can't really use that as an excuse. I had attended a concert or two as a tsoundcheck member when the program first started up way back in the day and I remember how back then, you had to buy tickets on-site and you couldn't select your seat, you just took whatever they gave you. That always stuck with me, and as I'm so particular with seating (and everything else - an admitted control freak), it wasn't really my cup of tea. Perhaps this component of the program has contributed to me staying away.
Luckily, times have changed, the price has gone up (just minimally) and if you call in (instead of selecting your seat on the internet), you can get a little bit of choice in the matter.
I think the other unfortunate thing about tsoundcheck is that it's not available for all concerts. I'm not interested in every single concert that the TSO has to offer to that's probably held me back as well.
I also managed to fall off of their members' mailing list, so not having a constant reminder of what I'm missing out on probably didn't help matters.
Recently, the stars aligned and I found a concert that I wanted to attend, had tsoundcheck tickets available, allowed for some choice of seating...I couldn't say no. As soon as I arrived on-site, I scolded myself for not returning to the attend the TSO sooner.
Roy Thomson Hall is gorgeous, the TSO is wonderful and if you're seated on the Main Floor, it's pretty much impossible to have a bad seat. One thing that I did notice and that didn't seem familiar was the strange muted volume of the orchestra. Was the hall always so strange? I'm hoping that it was just where I was seated and that I was under the overhang of the Mezzanine. I hope it's not just the general acoustics of the place.
The concert itself was great. It was part of the "Rachmaninoff & the Impressionists" series and the main draw for me was Rachmaninoff's Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Op. 43. That piece gets me every single time. The only other piece in the programme that interested me was Dukas' The Sorcerer's Apprentice. Broomsticks and hippos danced happily in my head.
I appreciated the intros given by Maestro Peter Oundjian. He gave us the background for each piece, some historical context and key points to listen for. The main thing I got from his talk: the Dies Irae theme is everywhere.
Coincidentally, Gabriela Montero, the pianist whom I'd heard in the last classical concert that I've been to was the soloist at this concert. Her interpretation of the Rachmaninoff was lovely, but I was also excited for you parlour trick to come. Now knowing that Torontonian audiences will give a standing ovation to anything and everything (I disagree with this practice. I think it lessens impact of a standing ovation that's truly warranted), I knew that Ms. Montero would be obliged to improvise. Unfortunately, many of my fellow concert-goers were not quite as knowledgeable as I was (nor did they bother to read the programme) and at least 20% of the audience that was in my line of sight left the hall during the numerous curtain calls. Luckily, Ms. Montero didn't prolong the ovation to ridiculous lengths and started explaining what she'd be doing for her encore as some folks were still making their way out the door. They all realized that the concert was still ongoing and many stood in the aisles as she continued to entertain the audience.
The first audience suggestion was Gershwin's Summertime and she did a lovely little medley based on the main motif. It was impressive, but it solidified my already brewing thought that she does have a pretty standard skeletal structure that she follows within each style.
The second audience suggestion was a lot more local. After squashing a Latin American classic, she coaxed the audience to suggest a song that was a little bit more Canadian. I'm glad that the suggestion of the National Anthem didn't take, but instead she went with the theme from Hockey Night in Canada. It took a little bit of time for someone to try to sing the melody for her (actually, there was one audience member who did a great job, but when the attention was drawn to them and they were asked to repeat their singing, they got terribly shy and the hall went absolutely silent) and she had actually started to play an inaccurate version of the melody until a TSO member saved the day. A talent that I can't seem to master, this violinist played the entire tune by ear. It was a classicized version completed with vibrato, but the melody was definitely in tact. The audience took great glee in his efforts and even more glee when Ms. Montero immediately turned it into a tango. Now that's a great parlour trick to have up your sleeve!
So, the moral of the story is that I had a great time and that I need to make concert outings part of my regular rotation.
Need to update
I think I've done some pretty fantastic things in the city this past little while. I need to write about them, but for some reason I never get around to it. Or often it's so much after the fact that some of the things I wish to share about my experience are obsolete.
I was about to start a post about a recent event with photographic evidence, but I can't find the cable that connects my camera to the computer. Egads. It's strange, I usually get into a frenzy when I can't find something where I think it's supposed to be, but this time I didn't. I think it's because I can't imagine misplacing the cable and there is a chance I left it at school, if I get to school tomorrow and can't find the cable, then I will go into a frenzy. Well, I won't at school because I can't frenzy in front of other people (too embarrassing) and there's no sense in frenzying where the cable definitely cannot be found. Basically, it will be a relatively unproductive day at school tomorrow if I can't find the cable. Boy, do I hope that I can find the cable.
I think I'm going to write about my return to the TSO now and worry about writing up my MP3 Experiment experience later. As part of the Experiment, we had to take pictures and that's what I'm wanting the cable for. In the meantime, here's some photographic evidence that I was at the event. I'm the one in the green t-shirt. *Snarf!*
I was about to start a post about a recent event with photographic evidence, but I can't find the cable that connects my camera to the computer. Egads. It's strange, I usually get into a frenzy when I can't find something where I think it's supposed to be, but this time I didn't. I think it's because I can't imagine misplacing the cable and there is a chance I left it at school, if I get to school tomorrow and can't find the cable, then I will go into a frenzy. Well, I won't at school because I can't frenzy in front of other people (too embarrassing) and there's no sense in frenzying where the cable definitely cannot be found. Basically, it will be a relatively unproductive day at school tomorrow if I can't find the cable. Boy, do I hope that I can find the cable.
I think I'm going to write about my return to the TSO now and worry about writing up my MP3 Experiment experience later. As part of the Experiment, we had to take pictures and that's what I'm wanting the cable for. In the meantime, here's some photographic evidence that I was at the event. I'm the one in the green t-shirt. *Snarf!*
iblahblah
ivivva is not new, but I don't particularly understand why it's necessary. Their mommy company, lululemon said that feedback from customers asked for iblahblah, but I can testify that I regularly see pint-sized, athletic (and non-athletic folk) wearing the clothing, so I think they could have made due charging little ones adult-priced clothing. I know that the price point is vaguely more affordable and that I should be vaguely impressed that iblahblah clothing isn't trying to rip off their customers but the idea still gets me (clearly, if I'm calling it iblahblah). I'm sure I'm going to have to eat my words at some point because I have no doubt that it'll be a big success even for non-yoga enthusiasts (hello, lulu!).
I just find it funny that they try to make a big deal about all of the special features that their product offers...ummmm it's all the same thing as their mommy company has. It seems unnecessary to promote it. And the fact that they try to market it for the active-folks...well, even if it's the basis for their conception I would like their companies (lulu and ivivva) to acknowledge that many (most?!?) folks who wear their products do so for non-active reasons. If they made comments about how their products are sleek, comfortable, flattering, trendy and some other great marketing adjectives, I would be less cynical about their stance.
Nonetheless, I'm interested to see just how big ivivva will get and how quickly. Although I will probably continue to make snide remarks about it, a Canadian success story is never a bad thing.
I just find it funny that they try to make a big deal about all of the special features that their product offers...ummmm it's all the same thing as their mommy company has. It seems unnecessary to promote it. And the fact that they try to market it for the active-folks...well, even if it's the basis for their conception I would like their companies (lulu and ivivva) to acknowledge that many (most?!?) folks who wear their products do so for non-active reasons. If they made comments about how their products are sleek, comfortable, flattering, trendy and some other great marketing adjectives, I would be less cynical about their stance.
Nonetheless, I'm interested to see just how big ivivva will get and how quickly. Although I will probably continue to make snide remarks about it, a Canadian success story is never a bad thing.
Two sightings in the city
These two sightings made me both happy and sad.
Sighting 1: Canvasco bag
It's been four years since I've seen another Canvasco bag other than the one in my possession. I've been reveling in the fact that I've been such a unique individual (or at least, unaware of my lack of uniqueness) in the city, but alas, it seems that I am unique no more. I believe the lady was sporting a large Urban bag from the Cow line which looked amazing. I wanted to stop her and squeal in synchronized glee, but it probably would have been more effective and less terrifying (to her) if I was toting my own large Urban bag (of the Canvas line). I'm wondering where she got it from? I didn't loiter long enough to hear if she was speaking in English with her companion or with a non-North American accent. After moving back to the city, the first couple people that I saw toting Freitag bags were not native North Americans (I was bold enough at the time to ask them where they got their bag)...but of course now the popularity of Freitag has blossomed so it's not quite as much of a novelty as it is a 'cool club'. *Grin* Also, it seems as thought they're discontinuing the Cooper, which means that soon, I will own a vaguely unique-ish piece. This is a small consolation for knowing that there is another Canvasco toting individual here in the city. In more Freitag news: uh, oh. I thought my next Freitag purchase was going to be easy. My heart's been set on a Hazzard, but this will complicate things.
Anyway, I wish I had asked her about her bag, or at least complimented her on it. People like to be complimented.
Sighting 2: SOMA chocolate's 2nd location
The original Distillery District's location was just enough out of the way that I only indulged once a year and the trip out to the shop was often caused by the need to purchase a gift for someone else. The new King Street West location is exciting (yum!), yet terrifying for my currently svelt (ha!) physique. Googlemaps says that it's a mere 900m away from my doorstep. Can you burn off a truffle in 900 steps?
Sighting 1: Canvasco bag
It's been four years since I've seen another Canvasco bag other than the one in my possession. I've been reveling in the fact that I've been such a unique individual (or at least, unaware of my lack of uniqueness) in the city, but alas, it seems that I am unique no more. I believe the lady was sporting a large Urban bag from the Cow line which looked amazing. I wanted to stop her and squeal in synchronized glee, but it probably would have been more effective and less terrifying (to her) if I was toting my own large Urban bag (of the Canvas line). I'm wondering where she got it from? I didn't loiter long enough to hear if she was speaking in English with her companion or with a non-North American accent. After moving back to the city, the first couple people that I saw toting Freitag bags were not native North Americans (I was bold enough at the time to ask them where they got their bag)...but of course now the popularity of Freitag has blossomed so it's not quite as much of a novelty as it is a 'cool club'. *Grin* Also, it seems as thought they're discontinuing the Cooper, which means that soon, I will own a vaguely unique-ish piece. This is a small consolation for knowing that there is another Canvasco toting individual here in the city. In more Freitag news: uh, oh. I thought my next Freitag purchase was going to be easy. My heart's been set on a Hazzard, but this will complicate things.
Anyway, I wish I had asked her about her bag, or at least complimented her on it. People like to be complimented.
Sighting 2: SOMA chocolate's 2nd location
The original Distillery District's location was just enough out of the way that I only indulged once a year and the trip out to the shop was often caused by the need to purchase a gift for someone else. The new King Street West location is exciting (yum!), yet terrifying for my currently svelt (ha!) physique. Googlemaps says that it's a mere 900m away from my doorstep. Can you burn off a truffle in 900 steps?
Friday, June 17, 2011
Dance trends 2011
Seems as though all the cool kids on SYTYCD this season are doing penchées and tilts. 180 degrees or oversplits of course.
This is definite fodder for a drinking game.
This is definite fodder for a drinking game.
Fishing in the city
I just read this article on BlogTO. I kind of like the idea.
Although it's an artificial environment, it's a wonderful opportunity for folks who aren't able to go fishing in a natural habitat. There are many people in the city who have never seen/visited a forest environment.
I like that people can go fishing. Forgive the lack of animal-friendly sentiment in my thoughts, but I also like that the fish are gutted on-site (which would be better if people could observe this process - maybe they do). I like that they have the option of eating the (fresh) fish on-site, and I like the fact that recipes are provided.
I was even lamenting for the past couple of days about my challenge of finding a shop that sells Micro-Tom tomato plants downtown. I have three amazing, custom-made planters on my balcony, and I've left one to be filled with Micro-Toms and basil. I've found that most of the places that would sell something like this are within driving distance and/or closer to the suburbs. I know I'm exaggerating a bit and I've really just limited my search area to the downtown core, but you kind of get my drift. And yes, I know that my dilemma is much more trivial in the grand scheme of accessibility life experiences/opportunities, but still, I like to make personal connections when I can.
Anyway, this is something that I would be interested in attending. It's been going on for nine (!!!) years already and this is the first time that I've heard about it. Also, could you imagine how lovely it would be to watch all those doggies frolicking in the pool next week? Or to be a doggie and be surrounded by doggie friends in the pool? Toronto is amazing.
Although it's an artificial environment, it's a wonderful opportunity for folks who aren't able to go fishing in a natural habitat. There are many people in the city who have never seen/visited a forest environment.
I like that people can go fishing. Forgive the lack of animal-friendly sentiment in my thoughts, but I also like that the fish are gutted on-site (which would be better if people could observe this process - maybe they do). I like that they have the option of eating the (fresh) fish on-site, and I like the fact that recipes are provided.
I was even lamenting for the past couple of days about my challenge of finding a shop that sells Micro-Tom tomato plants downtown. I have three amazing, custom-made planters on my balcony, and I've left one to be filled with Micro-Toms and basil. I've found that most of the places that would sell something like this are within driving distance and/or closer to the suburbs. I know I'm exaggerating a bit and I've really just limited my search area to the downtown core, but you kind of get my drift. And yes, I know that my dilemma is much more trivial in the grand scheme of accessibility life experiences/opportunities, but still, I like to make personal connections when I can.
Anyway, this is something that I would be interested in attending. It's been going on for nine (!!!) years already and this is the first time that I've heard about it. Also, could you imagine how lovely it would be to watch all those doggies frolicking in the pool next week? Or to be a doggie and be surrounded by doggie friends in the pool? Toronto is amazing.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Why?!?
I loathe the fact that this is an American Apparel ad. Don't try to make me like your company by creating this great bit.
Lookie...I can embed videos! Although let's be honest, I just cut and paste and then change the size to fit my page. Still, I'm so technologically spiffy!
Lookie...I can embed videos! Although let's be honest, I just cut and paste and then change the size to fit my page. Still, I'm so technologically spiffy!
Reciprocal agreements
I have a major perk from one of the places where I work. I'm able to gain free access to many museums, art galleries and even other attractions all over the place. Most of the places are in Ontario, but this reciprocal agreement also extends to other parts of Canada and even other countries. It's wonderful.
Anyway, I walked by the AGO today to ask about the Abstract Expressionist New York exhibition and apparently, even with my perks I would still have to pay $10 to see the exhibition. The nerve!
Well, I'll just visit the MoMA and see what they have to offer without the $10 fee, thank you very much.
Anyway, I walked by the AGO today to ask about the Abstract Expressionist New York exhibition and apparently, even with my perks I would still have to pay $10 to see the exhibition. The nerve!
Well, I'll just visit the MoMA and see what they have to offer without the $10 fee, thank you very much.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Oh internet, dear internet
When I moved downtown, friends advised me to get the crazy-fast high-speed internet that the building that I was living in was privy to. I didn't listen to them. I ended up getting the cheaper route. I didn't care about the super high-speed internet. I was happy with the service that I got and I liked the extra pocket change. My friends thought I was crazy. to have given up such an opportunity.
Now that I'm in a different building, but still privy to the same crazy-fast internet, I still did the same price shopping before selecting whom I would give my business too, and ended up with said 'crazy-fast high-speed internet provider. I enjoy the service, but it doesn't seem mind-blowingly different from what I used to have.
I've just received a memo that my provider is jacking up the prices. To provide some context, typical price for high-speed internet in the area is ~$50/month. I'm getting it for a wee bit less. Also, there are only really two potential providers that I can use in my building.
So, as a loyal customer they will be upping my rate to $60/month. This is still for the crazy-fast high-speed internet. This change is because they have started a new series of plans. They didn't want to completely screw over existing customers, hence the (relatively?) minimal price increase. But, I could switch over to their new plan and get basic high-speed internet for a measly $38/month or even the medium high-speed internet for $50/month. New customers wanting the same crazy-fast high-speed internet that I current have will have to pay...wait for it...$100/month!
So, to switch, or not to switch. I wonder if I would even notice the difference? I don't download a lot of things on a regular basis, but I do enjoy streaming TV shows so that I can keep up-to-date on useless reality television (read: Survivor, Top Chef US/Masters/Canada, SYTYCD, Big Brother US and UK, Strictly Come Dancing, Project Runway, etc.) and other more substantial shows (read: Community, 30 Rock, Grey's Anatomy, etc.).
I tend to go on movie watching phases. If I feel like I need a dose of film, I'll watch a bunch in a row, but then I get tired of looking for online sources and forget about it for another month or two. I even have phases for TV shows. After a recent conversation with friends, I'm currently on a Top Gear trend. I know nothing about the cars, and I usually tune out when they talk about stuff under the 'bonnet', but it is a rather entertaining show. And nostalgic. I used to watch it in Europe all the time. At this rate, I'll end up watching EastEnders or something. There's a bunch of real-estate, SAS and bargain hunting/selling shows that I would try to catch as well. I digress.
Point is, times are changing, prices are on the rise and I need to decide if I'm going to make any moves in the my internet situation.
Now that I'm in a different building, but still privy to the same crazy-fast internet, I still did the same price shopping before selecting whom I would give my business too, and ended up with said 'crazy-fast high-speed internet provider. I enjoy the service, but it doesn't seem mind-blowingly different from what I used to have.
I've just received a memo that my provider is jacking up the prices. To provide some context, typical price for high-speed internet in the area is ~$50/month. I'm getting it for a wee bit less. Also, there are only really two potential providers that I can use in my building.
So, as a loyal customer they will be upping my rate to $60/month. This is still for the crazy-fast high-speed internet. This change is because they have started a new series of plans. They didn't want to completely screw over existing customers, hence the (relatively?) minimal price increase. But, I could switch over to their new plan and get basic high-speed internet for a measly $38/month or even the medium high-speed internet for $50/month. New customers wanting the same crazy-fast high-speed internet that I current have will have to pay...wait for it...$100/month!
So, to switch, or not to switch. I wonder if I would even notice the difference? I don't download a lot of things on a regular basis, but I do enjoy streaming TV shows so that I can keep up-to-date on useless reality television (read: Survivor, Top Chef US/Masters/Canada, SYTYCD, Big Brother US and UK, Strictly Come Dancing, Project Runway, etc.) and other more substantial shows (read: Community, 30 Rock, Grey's Anatomy, etc.).
I tend to go on movie watching phases. If I feel like I need a dose of film, I'll watch a bunch in a row, but then I get tired of looking for online sources and forget about it for another month or two. I even have phases for TV shows. After a recent conversation with friends, I'm currently on a Top Gear trend. I know nothing about the cars, and I usually tune out when they talk about stuff under the 'bonnet', but it is a rather entertaining show. And nostalgic. I used to watch it in Europe all the time. At this rate, I'll end up watching EastEnders or something. There's a bunch of real-estate, SAS and bargain hunting/selling shows that I would try to catch as well. I digress.
Point is, times are changing, prices are on the rise and I need to decide if I'm going to make any moves in the my internet situation.
Kvikk Lunsj
I've just spent a fair amount of time on google translate learning some Norwegian and the history behind the Kvikk Lunsj.It's totally a Norwegian version of a Kit Kat. That's what I'm going with.
But the 'research' did give me a little break from my day. And of course the snack was nice too.
- picture courtesy of www.kraftfoodsnordic.com
Sunday, June 12, 2011
LXD
I know that LXD is old news, but I can't help but gush over it.
For awhile, it was only available to be watched in the US, but it seems as though others are able to enjoy it now (BEST NEWS EVER!!! Oh wait, it's a season behind - boo-urns.). Thank goodness, because I was about to royally complain about it here.
Obviously, I love the dancing of the LXD. But every time that I've seen them perform I'm really impressed at the story that ties everything together. And the music. It's not the typical hip-hop and other genres that are often associated with the styles of dance that are represented by the LXD, but something a lot more, well, cinematic.
I guess that's probably a great description of what the LXD does.
I know that the webisodes have a premise which makes it naturally cinematic, but just having a plotline and a filmmaker doesn't mean that you'll get such a result. It's nothing short of amazing, the stuff that they come up with.
If you haven't watched anything by the LXD, whether is be their webisodes (which I'm going to watch now, because I didn't realize that they were available for me), performances at events or even pieces that their choreographers have done for other dances, you'd better look into it. Just have some fun on google or youtube them and enjoy the show.
I have never been disappointed with anything that the LXD or their choreographers have been associated with, and I hope you won't either.
Droooooooooool.
For awhile, it was only available to be watched in the US, but it seems as though others are able to enjoy it now (BEST NEWS EVER!!! Oh wait, it's a season behind - boo-urns.). Thank goodness, because I was about to royally complain about it here.
Obviously, I love the dancing of the LXD. But every time that I've seen them perform I'm really impressed at the story that ties everything together. And the music. It's not the typical hip-hop and other genres that are often associated with the styles of dance that are represented by the LXD, but something a lot more, well, cinematic.
I guess that's probably a great description of what the LXD does.
I know that the webisodes have a premise which makes it naturally cinematic, but just having a plotline and a filmmaker doesn't mean that you'll get such a result. It's nothing short of amazing, the stuff that they come up with.
If you haven't watched anything by the LXD, whether is be their webisodes (which I'm going to watch now, because I didn't realize that they were available for me), performances at events or even pieces that their choreographers have done for other dances, you'd better look into it. Just have some fun on google or youtube them and enjoy the show.
I have never been disappointed with anything that the LXD or their choreographers have been associated with, and I hope you won't either.
Droooooooooool.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Compare and constrast
There are some concepts that keep popping up in my musings.
Cynical vs. critical
Impressionable vs. enthusiastic
Cynical vs. critical
Impressionable vs. enthusiastic
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