Your guide to Philly's diverse creative scene, nightlife, music, food & more
New Year's Eve Fireworks Show In Philadelphia
Philly never drops the ball on a good celebration. This year, Philly adds twice the flare again to its New Year's Eve show with two fireworks shows.
Find out here where the best spots are to view the shows.
SugarHouse Casino Presents Twice the Fireworks! Twice the Fun!
Saturday, December 31
6:00 p.m. and midnight
Delaware River Waterfront
Insider Tip: This is free.
Top Fireworks Viewing Spots
1 Riverside Drive
Have your own under the sea adventure when you ring in the New Year. Guests can dive into the hors d’oeuvres, food stations and open bar and catch a great view of the fireworks while toasting with champagne. Music and entertainment round out the New Year’s adventure.
Insider Tip: $125 per person
62 Battleship Place
Get your sea legs ready. Enjoy music, food and bar concessions, as well as a unique view of both fireworks shows at 6 p.m. and midnight.
Columbus Boulevard and Market Street
The Blue Cross RiverRink’s New Year’s Eve Party on Ice offers one of the best views of the city’s fireworks show over the Delaware River. Skaters can catch one of two sparkling shows during the early (5-7 p.m.) and late (11 p.m. - 1 a.m.) parties. File this spot under family-friendly.
Insider Tip: Tickets are $30 for skaters and $20 for spectators.
200 N. 6th Street
Families can head to the brightly illuminated Franklin Square to watch the 6 p.m. fireworks show. From 11a.m. - 4 p.m., there will be party hat decorating, free entertainment, and a “Square-drop” countdown to 6 p.m. File this one under family-friendly.
Chestnut Street and Columbus Boulevard
Head to the Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing for a front-row view of the fireworks backed by a synchronized soundtrack during the show.
201 S. Columbus Boulevard
The Hyatt Regency at Penn’s Landing is kicking off the New Year with not one, but two celebrations. Enjoy a delicious New Year’s Eve Family Buffet starting at 4 p.m. Save room for the Dessert Explosion at 5:30 p.m. before the 6 p.m. fireworks show at Penn’s Landing. ($55 for adults, $25 for children 3-12). Starting at 8 p.m., adults can partake in the Starlight Soiree featuring a dinner buffet and wine bar in the Columbus Ballroom followed by drinks and dancing at Keatings River Grill, all leading up to the fireworks spectacular at midnight. ($125 per person)
Columbus Boulevard at Walnut Street
Grab a complimentary party hat and noisemaker before heading outside to the second-floor terrace to watch the fireworks spectacular over the Delaware River at 6 p.m. The museum comes alive at 8:30 p.m. during the Buccaneers Ball, a swashbuckler-themed New Year’s Eve celebration with live music, drinks, dinner and dancing ending with the fireworks show at midnight.
Delaware Avenue and Beach Street
Penn Treaty Park’s seven acres of open green space and clean picnic areas provide a great vantage point from which to watch the fireworks.
Race Street and Delaware Avenue
This is an amazing spot to watch but we recommend you get there early, as it’s probably going to fill up fast.
Insider Tip: Alcohol, BBQ and glass containers are not permitted at the Pier.
401 S. Columbus Boulevard
Set sail on the Spirit of Philadelphia for two special sailing adventures to ring in the New Year. Families can hop aboard for the early New Year’s Eve Fireworks Dinner Cruise from 4–6:30 p.m. and celebrate with live music, party favors and a grand buffet before getting an up close view of the fireworks at 6 p.m. From $109.90 per adult. $69.90 per child ages 3-12. The New Year’s celebration sets sails again from 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. with sweeping views of the fireworks and the city skyline; the night includes a dinner buffet, hors d’oeuvres, premium open bar, DJ music, dancing, party favors and a champagne toast. From $164.90 per person.
1001 N. Delaware Avenue
We bet that the riverfront walkway at SugarHouse Casino will be a good spot to watch both fireworks displays, as there will be concession stands and speakers playing the synchronized soundtrack for each of the shows.
1301 S. Columbus Boulevard
This is another new park on the Delaware River Waterfront, formerly Pier 53.
Mickle Boulevard at the River
Across the river in Camden, you can get an amazing view of the fireworks from Wiggin’s Park, located near Adventure Aquarium and the Battleship New Jersey. Viewers will be treated to a synchronized soundtrack for the fireworks display from speakers at the park.
Swag And Soul—Keven Parker-Style
As soon as we heard about the upgrades at Keven Parker’s properties, we knew we had to check it out. A fabulous blend of plush, luxurious décor and soulful vibes, the Keven Parker brand definitely knows how to step the game up. In fact, it’s more like a movement and it’s adding some swag to South Street. Keven Parker’s not just an innovative business man, “he’s a business, man!”
Now that we’re done with the intro, let us break it down for you.
Ms. Tootsie’s Restaurant Bar Lounge
First, we have to brag about the food. The new menu is to die for! If you thought Ms. Tootsie's had it goin’ on before, just wait until you taste what they’re cookin’ up now. Here’s what chef Terrance Clark hooked us up with:
Appetizers
Pulled-Pork Slider – Slow-roasted for 5 hours, and served with a 5-spice blend secret barbeque sauce
Soul Rolls – Spring rolls filled with a slammin’ combo of chicken, candied yams and cabbage, served with a side of honey/nutmeg/ranch dressing
Ms. Tootsie’s Pops – Chicken wing drumettes (shaped like a Tootsie Roll pop), served with a side of sweet and tangy sauce
Entrées
Lobster Mac & Cheese – Enough said!
Bourbon-Braised Short Rib – Braised for 3 hours, and served over sweet potato hash
Parmesan Bread Crusted Lamb Chops – Delicious!
Insider tip: Satisfy your sweet tooth with a glass of their famous Tropical Blend Iced Tea. Mmm!
Wait…we’re not done yet. It gets even better once you go up the staircase. The Sky Bar, R&B Room, Luxe Lounge and Velvet Room are all decked out to impress. There are flat screens on just about every floor, and each room has its own chic décor. One thing we definitely loved throughout the space were the photos taken by renowned photographer Whitney Thomas. And, we especially loved the shots of Carol Riddick, Kindred the Family Soul, Musiq Soulchild, Jeff Bradshaw, Floetry and India.Arie in the R&B Room.
Insider tip: When you’ve got a hot date, make sure you request to be seated in the Love Lounge. It’s perfect for a romantic dinner with your boo.
KDP Lifestyle
We fell in love with Ms. Tootsie’s, and now we’re head over heels about KDP Lifestyle. Philly is full of unique shops and boutiques, but this one’s got its own flare. The home store is full of vintage finds from picture frames to lamps to sofas, all hand-picked by Keven. And, you’ll never see the same item twice.
KDP Luxury Suites
In January of 2012, South Street will get a whole new look when the KDP Luxury Suites open up. Yes, Keven Parker and his team are putting the finishing touches on three lavish, extended stay suites right next door to Ms. Tootsie’s and KDP Lifestyle. As soon as we walked in to see the suites, we were ready to move in. One word—gorgeous!
Insider tip: These suites are strictly for the fabulous.
So, now that you’ve heard us rave about it, check it out for yourself. We know you’ll love the experience. Whether you're looking for the perfect spot for a night out with the girls, or just looking for some bangin' soul food, Ms. Tootsie's is always poppin'.
Ms. Tootsie's/KDP Lifestyle & Luxury Suites
1312 South Street
Philadelphia, PA 19147
http://www.kevenparker.net/
Behind The Screen With Maori: One-Stop Solstice Shopping
Like many people I am often buying gifts—for any season—at the last minute. In between making films, curating a series, and writing, there’s just no time to stop in a million stores and find the perfect gift for everyone I love. The winter holidays are no exception. I’ve worked out of an office in Midtown Village for the past fours years, and I’ve gone to one place to buy gifts for friends, colleagues, and associates: Verde.
Verde is owned by Chef Marcie Turney and Valerie Safran, the pioneering young entrepreneurs whose three restaurants (Lolita, Barbuzzo, Jamonera) and three shops (Open House, Grocery) have transformed the culture of S. 13th Street. The boutique specializes in women’s accessories and carries a carefully curated collection of clothing and items for the home. The store also doubles as the retail home for Turney’s artisanal chocolates.
The staff is super helpful, the décor is inspiring, and I always find something to give and to get for myself!
Here are my Top 10 Picks for Winter Holiday Gift Giving
Laiya's World: My Top 10 Philly/A-Philly-Ated Albums Of The Year
So, it's almost the end of the year. Before you bust your brain open trying to think of the perfect gift for your loved one, why not give the gift that keeps on giving? What am I talking about, you ask? How about one or more of the 10 Best Philly/A-Philly-Ated Albums of the Year? And my list has something for everyone!
(In no specific order)
1
Creative Ambassador Nikki Jean may not be a Philly native, but I'm sure she'll agree that her years spent in the Philadelphia music scene definitely helped mold her as a singer/songwriter. Pennies In A Jar is Nikki's debut CD, and it sets her apart from anyone else on this list with her mixture of soul, pop and folk.
2
Eric Roberson. Another "A-Philly-Ated" singer/songwriter who has been in the game for some time now. This New Jersey native's initial claim to fame as a songwriter can be heard on some of your favorite albums from 112, MusiqSoulchild, Carl Thomas, Dwele and more, but his catalog of at least 7 studio albums includes a mix of the most beautiful ballads and blends of house and soul music. If you don't believe me (or if you really do) check him out for yourself. Please!
3
Are we sure Marsha is from London? Because her soul is pure Philly! This Creative Ambassador had one of the most anticipated solo releases since Lauryn Hill, and she didn't disappoint! From her honest and blatant ballad "I Hope She Cheats On You With A Basketball Player" to her beautiful ballad that turned into a poignant video "Far Away," she somehow manages to put our love stories into the words we couldn't find. Now that's talent!
4
Isn't it time we got some love advice from a couple living the example of some good lovin'? Well, Kindred gave us a 4th chance to get to know love in that fantasy way (it's there 4th studio album), but more importantly, in that practical way. Aja and Fatin Danzler, married and parents of 6 children, continue to not only sing about love, but to be true examples that love (and hard work as Aja would say) can indeed conquer all!
5
What do I need to say about The Roots album besides, "You don't have it yet? What's wrong with you?" The Roots continue to move us with there 11th studio album. I believe that entitles them to the title of the most releases from any hip hop group (don't hold me to it, unless its right). I consider them hip hop's fine wine, they just get better with age.
6
Oh you didn't know that The Roots released two albums this year? Well that's what I'm here for! Usually when a project is "produced" by The Roots, it really means that it has been touched by the combination of band leader Questlove and keyboardist / Grammy Award winning producer / Creative Ambassador James Poyser. This is The Roots' second collaboration album with a music legend (the first Al Green). For the last decade, Ms. Betty has been using her talents for teaching. She has been the vocal coach on American Idol for quite some time now, along with some notable private sessions for voices like Joss Stone and Jennifer Lopez, but this is her time to shine!
7
Common has put his work in as an "A-Philly-ate". He has done countless records and shows with The Roots, as well as appearing with Jill Scott and Marsha Ambrosius on other projects. He is truly an artist we can depend on for a quality album, and one of our favorite reflections of the evolution of hip hop. Just when we think that we've heard our favorite Common album, he puts another in the ring.
8
Calling yourself "The Greatest Rapper Never" takes a certain type of ego/candidness that only Dice Raw can exude. Why do I say that? Well, Dice has quietly be refining his MC skills since he was scooped up by The Roots at the age of 16. Unlike most, he didn't run when his solo debut (Reclaiming The Dead, released in 2000) didn't meet sales expectations. He wrote instead! For the last few years, Dice has been at the helm of most of The Roots projects, as well as writing and conceptualizing songs for Jill Scott, John Legend, Young Jeezey and more. Is he really just that good? Listen for yourself!
9
Meek Mills. All this talk and not even a debut studio album yet! However, he has managed to catch the ear of TI and Rick Ross. Oh and did I mention his debut mix cd (narrated and mixed by Philly's own DJ Drama) has already sold 300,000 copies digitally? Meek is making the most out of what some would think is his last chance of chasing his dreams. It feels like its just the beginning.
And, Questlove's pick for Philly Album of the Year:
Drum roll please...
10
Is it just me, or is Jill Scott always in my head? Every time she puts a new album out, it feels like at least half of the songs are a reflection of my life or how I feel. Get out of my head, Jill! Wait. Actually, I take that back, because no one can sing what I feel, like Jill. And, this album doesn't disappoint. As we evolve, so does Jill. Jill gives us the true story of a real woman, and there is so much more to tell! This album is perfection. 'Nuff said!
Rakia’s Style Nation: Green Gift Giving Guide
Green is the new black! So, I pulled together a gift guide of my favorite trendy and eco-friendly gift ideas. Happy shopping!
Engage Green Penguin Umbrella
934 South Street
The Big Green Earth Store is every eco-chic fashion fan’s dream! The boutique is chock full of sustainable goodies that will make you gaga for green. This gift is for your special someone who always gets caught in the rain. It’s also available in orange and blue.
Picnic Pal Blankets
1301 Locust Street
These pal blankets are made with 100% organic cottons and have a hypo-allergenic filling. Choose from five different animals to give away this holiday season.
Eviama Simple Facial
262 S. 16th Street
Everyone deserves a spa day. At the Eviama Life Spa, spend the afternoon in a tranquil, stress free environment and sweet organic rich botanicals.
Amazulu Artisans Global Contemporary Boutique
Amazulu Artisans Global Contemporary Boutique
2816 W. Girard Ave
This holiday pop-up shop nestled away in University City, features a brand new jewelry line that has really caught my eye! Soul Crafted is designed by Hasan Malik, local artist and photographer extraordinaire who uses his keen eye on detail to create unique jewelry pieces using the most exotic stones. Grab your original piece of jewelry before this pop-up shop closes at the end of 2011!
The Cedar Chest
21 S. Jackson Street
Whenever I walk into The Cedar Chest, I always know that I will be walking out with at least two bags of clothing! The Cedar Chest features an array of apparel featuring blouses, dresses, and skirts. Winter accessories, watches, and jewelry are also on display for you to try on. An extra 10% off will be given to customers who mention this Philly 360° post.
Astro Vintage
702 S. 5th Street
Passyunk Ave is home to many little hidden treasures. One of the newest vintage boutiques in the South Street Headhouse District is Astro Vintage. Step into the store and you’ll feel like you’ve stepping into the 1950’s. Check out the “Winking” shot classes, perfect for a friend who loves to be the host of your next holiday party. Take your holiday goodies to the next potluck in style with these one-size-fits-all gifts.
EA Effect
1050 North Hancock St, Suite 58
The varieties of shops at The Piazza and at Liberties Walk are always a great way to spend an afternoon. EA Effect is a local boutique tucked away in the Piazza and you can find stocking stuffers for your loved ones. EA Effect has candles made from 100 soy wax from local vendor Melostudios and homemade soaps by Phillysoaps. Boutique owner, Ella Kolanowska line, Pearl Crown is a sure green pleaser with all materials being upcycled.
James' Arts & Culture Revival: Shop Local For The Holiday!
Philly is a town full of creative types and go-getters. So, it's no wonder that there are so many awesome locally-owned shops all over town. I've pulled together a quick list of three of my absolute favorite places to shop, each one unique to our city and owned by some very hip, creative and savvy Philadelphians.
So, while you're finishing up your last minute holiday shopping and searching for the perfect gifts for your family and loved ones, make sure you spread the wealth where it truly counts, and support local businesses.
You're sure to fall in love with these three shops and their oh-so-fab owners - I know I have! Ok, so here we go.
Findings
246 Race Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 923-0988
Although Findings has been part of the fabric of Old City for years, I've only recently stumbled upon this funky ethnic and antique wares shop while strolling around town during First Friday. The store's owner, Melissa Fisher, took her childhood passion of collecting antiques and other oddities and transformed it into this thriving business in the heart of Old City.
From the floor to the ceiling, Findings is full of one-of-a-kind ethnic home wares, art, statues, jewelry and antiques from around the world. The best part - Mel has a story for each of them!
Insider tip: Findings is having an awesome sale on all ethnic art, statues and masks.
Vivant Art Collection
60 N. Market Street (2nd & Market Streets)
Philadelphia, PA 19106
www.vivantartcollection.com
During the last four years, Philly 360° Creative Ambassador Florcy Morisset has transformed the landscape of Old City's gallery row with her successful gallery, Vivant Art Collection. This booming art space has quickly become a cultural epicenter for Philly's African American and creative communities.
I'm always stopping through Florcy's gallery to check out Vivant's latest exhibition, and to find art to add to my ever-growing personal collection. Right now, Vivant is showing a fantastic show called The Illustrated Sounds of Philadelphia, featuring the work of local artist Andre Jones. Through his work, Jones has created amazing representations of many of Philly's legends of music including Jill Scott, Teddy Pendergrass, Boys II Men and many more!
Insider tip: Click here to learn more about Vivant's Holiday Art Sale on the Main Line. It's sure to be a great event and the perfect place to pick up those last minute holiday gifts.
Wear House Boutique, Inc.
401 S. 16th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19146
www.wearhouseboutique.com
All you funky-fresh-dressed-to-impress ladies need to know about Wear House Boutique in Rittenhouse. Wear House is a vintage and custom clothing shop that specializes in clothing for women of all sizes - especially those full-sized curvy Philly-fashionistas.
Store owners Monique & Corinn have created a fantastic space that encourages women to love their bodies completely. The Wear House mantra is, “Love your body beyond measure.” A variety of events are held at the store to empower women as they embark upon their journey of self-discovery and (in the words of Monique & Corinn) most importantly - shopping!
Insider tip: Yours truly, James Claiborne, has an exhibit of my personal artwork showing at Wear House Boutique through the end of the month. Stop by and check it out!
Visually Fly With Flygirrl: Three Favorite Gifts For The Holidays
Looking for some gift ideas? I pulled together my three favorite holiday gift ideas all made by local artists and designers. Happy shopping!
LeTau Designs
From the hooded unisex scarves to the feminine drawstring scarves made of only the finest wools, cashmeres, silks, cottons and linens—LeTau has a little something for everyone if you’re looking for the perfect gift ideas. Whether you wear LeTau pieces to spruce up a T-shirt and jeans look or for when you go out on the town, you can’t go wrong with any of LeTau’s signature looks. And, Philly 360° shout out to owner and Philadelphia designer Maren Reese. She is as fabulous as her designs!
Insider Tips: Make sure to check out the bags—amazing fabrics, handles and designs. Find out where to get LeTau looks at letaudesigns.com.
Alvanez Designs
Not only do I want to buy Alvanez Designs jewelry for every lady in my life, but for myself too! The collection features earrings and necklaces adorned with album cover art, African textiles and more. The earrings come in many sizes—from small shapes to oversized pieces. Philly designer Monica Ferreira makes all of her pieces by hand and puts lots of love into each and every one. Her line has become on of my favorites, and I love to support creative moms trying to find their voice while raising a family!
Insider Tip: Have a specific album cover that you want made into earrings? Let her know, she can whip them up in no time!
Bathtub Jungle
Etsy is one of my favorite places to find great art. If you do a search for Philadelphia, you can find so many talented Philadelphia artists and designers and all of their work for purchase. On one of my searches, I came across local jewelry designer Maggie Huth—better known as Bathtub Jungle. Her sterling silver charms are delicate, simple and a great gift for someone you know!
Insider Tips: My favorites are the Philly skyline and LOVE pieces. Got an idea of something you’d want? Don’t be afraid to ask. I love reaching out to artists and designers to see if they do custom orders.
Tearin’ Up Some Green Soul
The Bynum’s have officially done it again! In the heart of West Oak Lane lies our new favorite healthy soul food spot—Green Soul. We took a trip with Philly Homegrown to get a taste of the new restaurant’s flavor. From the vibrant green décor to the bangin’ soul-inspired dishes, there’s nothing quite like it. We heard everyone raving about it when it first opened up during this year’s West Oak Lane Jazz & Arts Festival, and we’ve definitely fallen in love with this delicious hidden gem.
As a sister restaurant to Warmdaddy’s and Relish, we knew that the food was going to be off the chain. Akil and Stacey Collins at Green Soul hooked us all the way up, and the best part is that we left feeling stuffed, but not guilty. Gotta love it! Here are some of our faves: Mango Jerk Salmon Salad (unbelievable), Germantown Sweet Potato Salad (OMG!), Barbeque Pulled Chicken Sandwich (mouth-watering), Low Country Peach Cobbler (Mmm!) and their Oogave natural sodas. We didn’t have any room left to try the Cajun Salmon BLT, but it’s their best seller and we’re sure it’s amazing.
Check out the Philly Homegrown website for more juicy details. And, make sure you get your grub on at Green Soul soon!
7169 Ogontz Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19138
http://www.greensoulliving.com/
Rakia’s Style Nation: Holiday Dresses That Steal The Show
'Tis the season for festive dresses! We all know that finding the perfect holiday dress can be a daunting task – but don’t sweat it. We’ve got you covered for all occasions this holiday season. From flirty formal, to family fun, to sexy stand out for New Year's Eve, these boutique finds are a sure fit to keep you signed, sealed and delivered this holiday season.
Glitter, sequins, and metallics are back, and it’s no question why. Adding a bit of sparkle to any outfit can easily transition you into festive fun. Not into buying a new dress? Accessorize one you already own with bold colors, sparkles, glitzy jewels and a red lip as the finishing touch – and voila, you’ve got yourself a head-turning look.
Check out some of my favorite holiday looks and where to get them!
All That Glitters Is Gold
A gold dress like this one is eye catching and formal enough for any holiday occasion. It’s the perfect dress for this time of year because you can dress it up or down. Pair it with decorated stockings, ankle boots and a colorful clutch, and you’re good to go.
Fab Family Fun
Look cozy and fabulous during family get togethers this season by pairing a chiffon dress with a warm oversized cardigan, knee high socks and glitzy flats. This outfit is subtle, cozy and ultra feminine. Dress: Smak Parlour
Holiday Nostalgia
This simple, but elegant festive red dress is perfect for head turning! Build your simple look with gold jewelry to really make the outfit pop.
Sexy Show Stopper
Steal the show in this statement making LBD, pair it with bold pumps and simple yet elegant jewelry for that special New Year’s Eve get together you’ve been waiting all year for.
Where To Get These Looks
219 Market Street
Insider Tip: This is one of Marsha Ambrosius' fave boutiques.
Arcadia Boutique - Northern Liberties
819 N. 2nd Street
Arcadia Boutique - Rittenhouse Square
265 S. 20th Street
249 Main Street
James' Arts & Culture Revival: Celebrate The Holidays With Carols In Color
This week, I caught up with a familiar face from the Philadelphia dance community, Shawn-Lamere Williams, the Artistic Director of Eleone Dance Company. These days, Shawn and the amazing dancers of Eleone are hard at work preparing for what has become a pillar of the Philly holiday season - Carols In Color.
For twenty years, Eleone Dance Company has brought Philly together to celebrate the joy and wonder of the holiday with this original, soul-stirring, music-filled dance masterpiece. From the joyous hymns and anthems, to the electrifying dancers and vibrant costumes, Carols In Color celebrates Christmas in a way only Philly can.
So, grab your family, friends and loved-ones and come out to celebrate the 20th anniversary of this fantastic Philadelphia holiday tradition! You can get your tickets here.
Carols In Color
December 17 & 18
3 p.m. & 7 p.m. shows
The Kurtz Center of The Performing Arts
3000 West School House Lane
Watch this video for a look at this exciting production, and be sure to check out our exclusive interview with Shawn-Lamere Wililams below!
Exclusive Philly 360° Insider Interview with Shawn-Lamere Williams:
James: So, are you a Philly native? Tell us a few of your favorite things to do around town.
Shawn-Lamere: Yes I am. I was born and raised in South Philly. One of my favorite things to do in Philly is going to support other dance companies, like Philadanco, Koresh and Rennie Harris Puremovement. Also, I truly love spending an evening out enjoying the talented students of Freedom Theatre or CAPA, and then going to my favorite restaurant - Ms. Tootsie's.
I love shopping and Walnut Street has some fabulous stores, so you can always find me in H&M or Zara!
James: So how long have you been dancing? How did you decide to pursue this as your career/profession?
Shawn-Lamere: I've been dancing since the age of nine! (do I have to tell my age? lol) My elementary school had a fabulous arts program as part of their curriculum in the late 70's. (I think I just told my age. lol.) I couldn't sing, so I never wanted to go to music. Art was fun, but then I got paint on one of my favorite outfits and I was done with that! I love the drama classes, because I've always been very dramatic. lol
But, when they tossed me into the dance classes, I told Leroy from the movie Fame there was a new Divo in town. Just kidding! Actually, Leroy from Fame was one of my greatest inspirations. I was hooked after seeing that movies in the 80's.
James: Tell us about how Eleone Dance Company got its start and how you got involved?
Shawn-Lamere: Well, it's a show about the birth of Jesus Christ and many people who believe that Jesus is the reason for the season come and celebrate with us. It's a show about having faith and standing tall even when there's a struggle. I remember when my audience was 300 people, but now it's over 3,000.
Also, I've always had the best support from the cast of Carols In Color. The show used to be 40 cast members, but now it's a cast of 70! And, even though the show is about the story of Christ's birth, we have all kinds of people come see the show. They tell us that it really puts them in the holiday spirit. I'm proud to say Carols In Color has become a Philadelphia tradition, and it's because of the fans of the show. A lot of them have been there since 1992.
James: Has the concept of Carols in Color evolved in any way during the 20 year long run?
Shawn-Lamere: Oh yes, I'm constantly tweaking and enhancing. This year will be the first time we perform the show away from Freedom Theatre, which has been our home for about the last 7 years. We will be performing at the Kurtz Center for the Performing Arts at The William Penn Charter School. This year we added some new arrangements and choreography. But, I must say Leon did an amazing job with this show. He conceived it, choreographed it, arranged and played on all of the music. He will always be a huge part of Philadelphia's dance and artistic legacy.
James: Along with having the tremendous talent of Eleone dancers, this is an incredibly musical show as well. Who are some of the vocalist that will be featured in this year's show?
Shawn-Lamere: Well I'll tell you this, we have a musical director nameed Patrick Crawford, and he is amazingly talented. This show has had some very talented singers in the past and present, including vocalists like Carol Riddick, Veronica Underwood, Jeremy Holder, Renee Robinson, and groups like Imani and 2Fold. A few of them are still with the show this year!
James: Finally, what can audiences expect when coming out to see this special 20th Anniversary performance of Carols In Color?
Shawn-Lamere: They can expect dynamic vocals, soul-stirring dancing and a real Baby Jesus - who steals the show every time! Also, folks can come out for my own return to the stage. I haven't performed with the show in five years. Do I still have it? Well, folks would have to come to the performance and see!
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