Newest articles on The Sacramento Press tagged as "michael jackson"

Michael Jackson lives on with "The Immortal World Tour" by Cirque du Soleil

2012-01-11T22:58:58Z

Michael Jackson: "The Immortal World Tour" by Cirque du Soleil opened to chants of “Michael! Michael!” The near sell-out crowd at Power Balance Pavilion on Tuesday night sat almost breathless through two hours of a show that had the feel of a Michael Jackson concert, but with the incredible performances for which Cirque du Soleil has become revered.

An awe-inspiring collection of contortionists, acrobats and dancers from around the world took the stage in this moving tribute to an artist whose music, moves and iconic image will forever define pop music, with a soundtrack that spanned Michael Jackson’s incredible career.

The show easily transitioned from a thrilling rendition of “Wanna Be Starting Something,” with dancers and acrobats careening across the stage in tribal wear, to the tender “Ben,” a tribute to Jackson’s love of animals, with performers in elephant costumes swaying gently to the ballad.

The backdrop was formed by a compilation of screens that flashed images from Jackson’s music videos and appearances, along with photos of the artist and a live video feed of the show.

Jackson’s tragic death in 2009 left his fans stunned and saddened, just three weeks from the start of his “This Is It” tour. For enthusiasts of the late artist, the show brings in elements from the ill-fated tour, including a reenactment of a routine that features soldiers in robot suits dancing to “They Don’t Really Care About Us” and an impressive array of musicians who worked with Jackson throughout his career.

The first act ended with “Thriller,” and the stage filled with dozens of performers in a foggy graveyard scene that revived the famous moves of the King of Pop. There were times when it seemed that Michael Jackson himself would appear on stage.

In the “Human Nature” performance, artists in multicolored LED costumes were suspended in front of a backdrop of the night sky and appeared to float and fly as a 3D image of a young Michael Jackson, perched on a crescent moon, hovered above the stage behind a sheer curtain.

One of the most impressive performances came from Jean Sok, a French amputee whose break dancing was featured throughout the show – including the incredible way he manipulated a basketball with his only foot.

For some, the most memorable performance may have been that of Australian Felix Cane, whose scantily clad pole dance to “Dangerous” was received in awed silence by the crowd.

Following a video of young Michael Jackson singing “I’ll Be There,” the grand finale was a multi-cultural blend of dance, acrobatics and music, with a melange of some of Jackson’s most famous songs. And as the performers took their bows to “Man in the Mirror,” the mime who lead led us through the journey to Neverland Ranch, shed his cap to don a fedora and single silver sequined glove, striking the pose Jackson immortalized – head tilted down and one arm raised in salute.

The overwhelming theme of the show was Jackson’s passion for social and humanitarian causes, and his voice narrated parts of the show.

Casual fans of the artist may not receive “The Immortal World Tour” as well as other Cirque du Soleil shows, as the focus is definitely on the music and dancers rather than the acrobats and contortionists.

The show runs in Sacramento for just two nights, and tickets are still available for the second show on Wednesday at 8 p.m. Cirque du Soleil’s “The Immortal World Tour” heads next to the Bay Area, performing in San Jose this Friday through Sunday and in Oakland from Jan. 17-18.

California State Fair opens Wednesday, runs through Aug. 1

2010-07-14T03:18:42Z

From dinosaurs to wiener dogs, lawnmower races to Michael Jackson’s Neverland Ranch rides, corndogs to chocolate covered bacon, the 157-year-old California State Fair has something for everyone.

With roughly 40,000 people per day running through the fair, and numerous attractions to see, Norbert Bartosik, CEO and general manager of the State Fair, promises a “Passport to Adventure.”

“It’s a new adventure every year,” Bartosik said. “The State Fair showcases what California is all about: its people. People showing off their talents, education, entertainment…It’s something you won’t find in a theme park.”

Although the fair won’t be a theme park, the Cal Expo grounds were in fact designed by Disney people—at the request of then-Governor Pat Brown. The State Fair had hopes to become “The Disneyland of the West,” said Bartosik, although budget cuts even in 1968 when it moved to Cal Expo, deterred it.

This year, the fair has made changes to accommodate the everyday family visitors. All vendor prices are 25 percent less than last year—a response to the patrons’ concerns of high prices, Bartosik said. Dates for this year’s fair have also changed in order to make sure they do not conflict with school dates.

One of this year’s must-see and brand-new events is the “Days of the Dinosaur” — an exhibit showcasing life-size animatronic models of prehistoric beasts in front of the California building. Each animal has motion sensors and moves or makes a noise when you get close enough.

Another must-see is the “Get Animated!” pop culture exhibit by Stage Nine Entertainment. Animation studios including Walt Disney, Pixar, Dreamworks, Sony Pictures and others will be present to showcase items from various films. Guests will also be able to draw an animated character and participate with hands-on displays.

“Grasscar”—a two-day lawn-mowing competition—will make its debut at the fair this year in the rodeo area Saturday, continuing through Sunday.

“Imagine 60-mile-per-hour lawnmowers racing, without the blades of course,” Bartosik said.

Andrea Owen, marketing director of Butler Amusements, said there will be 64 amusement rides this year, with 17 new family rides.

Family rides are rides that accommodate both adults and children at the same time. If your children can’t meet the minimum height requirement, then an adult can ride with them. Such rides this year are the Tilt-a-Whirl, Disney Dragon (much like the Teacups at Disneyland, but a dragon) and the Chopper Hopper.

Owen’s recommendation for those looking for a thrill: The Fireball.

“It’s a thrill ride,” she said. “You get to swing high into the air and spin slowly, while you’re swinging. It feels like you’re flying.”

With all these attractions, it’s hard to squeeze it all into one day.

“You can’t see it all in one day — there’s no question about that,” Bartosik said. “We would recommend that they buy a Poppy Pack so that they can come more than once.”

A Poppy Pack includes four admissions, four rides and a parking pass for $39.95. General admission is $12 per person, with discounts for seniors and children. Amusement rides are separate. A wristband for unlimited rides costs $30 Monday through Friday. Subway restaurants have coupons for cheaper wristbands.

The fair is located at 1600 Exposition Blvd. For more information and a list of all attractions, free concerts and vendor details, visit bigfun.org.

Photos courtesy of the California State Fair.

"Laser Spectacular's The Spirit of Michael Jackson" Lit up the Memorial Auditorium

2010-06-28T02:49:54Z

The one-year anniversary of Michael Jackson’s death was a special night for Sacramento fans to remember and celebrate his successful career at “Laser Spectacular’s The Spirit of Michael Jackson” at the Memorial Auditorium.

The tribute show highlighted Jackson’s legacy from the start of the Jackson 5 as a prodigy to his later years as a pop icon.

Creator and Producer, Steve Monistere, began the project late last summer, and the first show ran in late October.

On Friday night, the show was delayed 30 minutes while guests trickled into the auditorium.

The “Greatest Hits” played with a powerful 5,000-watt sound as the flashy lights lit the stage. The projector screen displayed video clips from Jackson’s life and tours, which triggered an emotional response from some guests. The multimedia effects were very impressive. Laser graphics and laser beams were constantly creating a light show that kept the audience captivated.

Michael Jackson impersonator, Raul Rojas, had Jackson’s stage presence and performed his famous choreography flawlessly, thus adding to the live concert experience.
The song “Billie Jean” and that famous glove received a great crowd response. Everyone stood, some reaching out their hands. It was like witnessing the real Jackson in concert.

The set – which lasted a little more than an hour – was an emotional experience for the die-hard fans. The tribute concert highlighted Jackson’s booming career and was appreciated by all ages.

Michael Jackson’s music impacted multiple generations, which was apparent with all the younger fans equipped with his glowing glove practicing their moonwalks in the aisles.

“I think people will come away with a sense of music history,” Monistere said.

Newest Kings arrive in Sacramento

2010-06-27T16:19:50Z

At this time last year many were mourning the loss of Michael Jackson and Billy Mays as well as digesting the draft pick of Tyreke Evans. Before last year's draft, many fans had their eyes on Ricky Rubio, who has yet to play a minute with an NBA team.

This year was different. Kings President of Basketball Operations had his eyes on the same player as most Kings fans. That man was Kentucky forward DeMarcus Cousins.

“I think in DeMarcus, we got an exceptional talent at the center position. He’s going to get us great size and skill in that post,” said Petrie. “He’s an outstanding passer, and we’re just really excited to add him into the frontcourt we have now with Samuel, Carl and Jason,”

At Kentucky, Cousins established himself as a top pick in the draft by scoring 15 points per game and close to 10 boards a game. Cousins was a first-team All-American and was named the SEC Freshman of the Year. Whiteside boasted strong statistics as well, averaging 13.1 ppg, 8.9 rpg and blocked an average of 5.4 blocks a contest.

With the Kings’ second round selection the Kings drafted Marshall center Hassan Whiteside. Whiteside is a legitimate 7-footer who poses a presence down low to opposing centers because of his combination of size and athleticism. After the draft, both Petrie and Westphal talked about the new additions to the Sacramento Kings.

“With Hassan, we had him in here twice for workouts. Great athlete, still needs to learn how to play some and mature a little bit, but he shoots the ball very well, he has an incredible knack for blocking shots off the ball and he’s somebody that we’re really looking forward to working with.”

“We went from a team that really scrapped to hold our own on the boards, to a big team. I think that adding size has been very important when we look at the teams we have to compete against in the West,” said coach Westphal. “Portland and the Lakers in particular, and you can go down the list. We were giving up size every game, and we have got some answers to size now that we can try out with these guys. It’s really nice.”

On Saturday both rookies went on tour; first meeting Petrie , coach Westphal and Sacramento media at ARCO Arena to welcome them to their new home.

“This is the place I wanted to be,” said Cousins. “I am very happy to be here. I hope I can come in here and contribute to the team and help the team get some wins and toughness.”

The questions as to the red flags of Cousins were quickly answered by Petrie.

“We did a lot of background on DeMarcus. We had him out here for visits, we spent time with him, we interviewed him in Chicago and had a very lengthy interview there,” said Petrie. “We spent a lot of time talking with people that have been involved with him throughout his development as a young player, starting back in junior high school and high school. People that have no real particular axe to grind or anything to gain by what they say or they don’t say. I think the message that came back was very consistent.”

Next stop on tour was a trip to Roseville where the new players were greeted by a large group of ecstatic Kings Fans, and no the dry heat did not quiet down the crowd. The Sacramento Kings Dance Team, Kings Breakers and Slamson were also a part of the Kings Rookie Rally. Some fans were in University of Kentucky gear while others were already wearing the number 15 of DeMarcus Cousins.

At this time next year you may find a similar scene. The scene being that our most recent selection was a top rookie in his class and ultimately the Rookie of the Year. There is a lot more pressure riding on this season as expectations will be higher.

Las Vegas Summer League

In a few weeks, the teams younger players will be off to Vegas for the Las Vegas Summer League from July 9-18. Along with Cousins and Whiteside will be a few undrafted rookies. One rookie being Ryan Thompson, younger brother to Kings forward Jason Thompson who the Kings drafted with the 12th pick in 2008. Ryan is a 6-foot-6 guard who worked out with the Kings a few weeks ago.

Other additions to the Kings Summer League roster were Tennessee forward Wayne Chism and Virginia guard Sylven Landesberg. Jon Brockman, Donte Greene and Omri Casspi are also expected to join the team in Vegas for some early NBA action.

'Laser Spectacular' denotes one-year anniversary of Michael Jackson's death

2010-06-24T16:28:46Z

"Laser Spectacular’s The Spirit of Michael Jackson" will light up the Memorial Auditorium on the first anniversary of Michael Jackson’s passing (June 25, 2009).

Steve Monistere, creator and producer of the multimedia tribute performance to the King of Pop, has a background in the music scene playing bass in a band, producing music, concerts, and writing radio jingles.

Monistere began the project late summer of 2009 and the first show ran late October of the same year.

“What I think people will get when they walk away from it is this real sense of how much he really impacted pop music," he said. "He (has) the title 'King of Pop.' I think people will come away with a sense of music history.”

The show will tour the West Coast for the next few weeks then it will make its way to the South and East Coast shortly after. Monistere compared this production with his very successful 25 years touring "Paramount's Laser Spectacular Featuring the Music of Pink Floyd"

“It is two different worlds," he said. "Pink Floyd progressive rock is strictly a multimedia show. This is a pop music show more of a live performance although it has all the elements of the laser show in it.

“The demand for the Spirit of Michael Jackson is greater than the Pink Floyd show is.”

This production includes a live performance from one of the top Michael Jackson impersonators from the Vegas stage, Raul Rojas, along with a stage equipped with a video projection screen, a combination of lasers, concert lighting and an impressive 50,000 watts of sound.

The audience will be taken through the years of Jackson’s life. The performance highlights his legacy to pop culture through his music and stage presence. It's a show that all ages can enjoy.

TICKET INFORMATION

Thursday, June 24: The Saroyan Theater-Fresno, 6:30 p.m.

Tickets Now On Sale: Contact The Saroyan Theater Box Office, 1-800-446-9497 or ticketmaster.com

Friday, June 25: The Memorial Auditorium-Sacramento, 6 p.m. and 10 p.m.

Tickets Now On Sale: Contact the Community Center Theater Box Office, 1-800-446-9497 or tickets.com

Sunday, June 27: The Bob Hope Theater-Stockton, 6:30 p.m.

Tickets: Contact the Stockton Arena Box Office, 1-800-446-9497 or stocktontickets.com

Presented by: CONXION ENTERTAINMENT INC.

http://www.laserspectacular.com/michaeljackson/index.php

Dance Company brings Broadway to Oak Park

2010-06-03T09:27:43Z

The 34th Street Dance company put on another high energy performance last Saturday at the Guild Theater. The theme was Fiat Lux, which is Latin for "let there be light. The show wrapped up with a tribute of dance routines to the late Michael Jackson, along with a heart felt and tearful ceremony to the seniors graduating from the company.

“Our mission is to use dance as a tool to build community and develop each dancer as a creative thinker, dance technician, and a leader” said Sheila Coleman, the founder and director of the company. The company trains in modern, hip-hop, and contemporary movement forms and for seven years, has shared its passion for dance with audiences all over California. The Sacramento-high based company is proudly led by Coleman , assistant director, Janay Hood, and dance coach and 34th SDC alumna, Rachel Hylton.

To view the photo gallery of the performance Click Here (photos by Ray Johnson/Npaphoto.com)

For more information on the 34th Street Dance Company, please visit Sheila Coleman's Facebook page

By Ray Johnson/Npaphoto.com

This is it

2009-10-30T00:25:25Z

Fans moonwalked to the Century Stadium on Ethan Way for the very first showing of "This is it," Tuesday.

Nearly 100 people wrapped around the theater in anticipation for the never-before-seen footage of Michael Jackson's rehearsals from what would have been his final 50-city tour.

"You will never believe where I am at right now," echoed fans on cellphones as they stood in line. "I am about to see the Michael Jackson movie, it's the last one."

Jackson's music played outside of the theater from the KSFM 102.5 van while fans of all ages sang and danced. As "Thriller" blared, fans teared, demonstrating the enormous impact that the "King of Pop" had on entire communities and generations.

"I got tickets all the sudden and came straight from work and sent out a text message saying the first person to text back gets to come," said Aleena Butler. "I had a lot of texts back."

The documentary consisted of footage captured by a few people who had the privilege of attending Jackson's rehearsals. The footage was never meant to be seen by anyone except Jackson, according to a disclaimer at the beginning of the film.

Touching messages from Jackson's dancers, musicians, composers and directors brought tears to the eyes of the people viewing the home videos.

"You are the reason I'm here," said one of Jackson's 10 handpicked dancers. "You are it, this is it."

"This is it" will be playing at Century Downtown Plaza 7, Century Stadium 14 Sacramento, UA Laguna Village 12, Regal Cinemas Davis Holiday 6, Century Roseville 14, Regal El Dorado Hills Stadium 14, Regal Natomas Marketplace 16, West Wind Sacramento 6 Drive-In, Century Sacramento Greenback 16, State Theatre - Woodland,Century 14 Folsom for two weeks only.

But just as Jackson's farewell concert had done just months ago, his farewell documentary is selling out fast.

To buy tickets in advance visit Fandango.com or call your local movie theatre to reserve seats.

Local bands pay tribute to Michael Jackson

2009-09-02T03:55:47Z

Local bands came together Monday night to pay tribute to the late Michael Jackson by playing his music to a packed house at Harlow's. About 250 people filled the room to listen to nearly 40 of Jackson's songs performed by 13 different bands.

Some of the more popular songs -- "Dirty Diana" and "I'll Be There," among others -- were played twice to a lively crowd of dancing fans.

Upon entering, one could already hear Jackson's songs, both originals and covers, filling Harlow's in-house speakers. Jerry Perry, promoter and a self-proclaimed "big Jackson fan" picked and introduced all the bands starting with Absolute Zero, a four-piece of high-school-age musicians.

Each band played between one and four songs and each mini-set lasted five to 15 minutes. Songs ranged from the popular ("PYT," "Beat It," "Smooth Criminal") to the less well-known ("Stranger in Moscow," "Childhood") and were played in styles ranging from punk to coffee-shop folk rock to funk.

Bands' wardrobes varied from non-Jackson-inspired clothing to full three-piece Michael Jackson costumes. One musician simply wore a Michael Jackson t-shirt.

However, most costumes included Jackson's signature black fedora; others added a white glove, white T-shirt with suspenders, and black suit. One band even dressed in the costume from the "Billie Jean" music video, black pants with rhinestone stripes and all.

During one song, a dancer named Randy Jackson (no relation) mimicked the quick precision bursts of movement the late "King of Pop" was known for. At the end of the five-minute routine, the crowd roared in praise of his dancing.

"It's the coolest thing I've ever done," said performer Reggie Ginn, whose self-titled five-piece rock band covered "The Way You Make Me Feel."

"It's a very emotional night," said Ricky Berger, who sang a version of the ballad "Childhood" while accompanying herself on piano.

A little before 11 p.m., Perry introduced an unannounced guest, a vocalist and guitar player calling himself JAM, which stands for "Jesus Always Mandatory." JAM, whose real name is Keith McNorton, works for a homeless shelter called America's House during the day, but has been singing for a long time, he said.

McNorton ran into Perry and auditioned for the show Monday afternoon. He told Perry the story of his special appreciation for Jackson and was added to the lineup at the last minute.

During his performance, he belted out a soulful rendition of "She's Out of My Life" before singing an original song dedicated to Jackson. He said he wrote it in the three days after Jackson died.

McNorton is also working on an album that's tentatively titled Props to the King of Pop.

Other fans showed up just to listen to the music.

"It's great [and] a lot of fun," said Danny Barak, 33, of the event. "Let's separate the music from who he was."

"He was an icon who changed the face of pop," said Velvet McKenzie, 32. Though not a big fan of Jackson's music, she said it was interesting to see his music played in different styles.

Usually-solo singer Adrian Bourgeous, who performed a duet with Berger on an acoustic version of "You Are Not Alone" added, "It brings closure."

A Day at the State Fair

2009-08-31T05:11:45Z

The California State Fair has been a main attraction for family fun in Sacramento for decades. This year did not disappoint.

Smiling kids ran around in packs in awe of the lights and rides at their fingertips.

Sitting on the children's midway among the funhouses and superslides sat rides from Michael Jackson's Neverland Ranch as well as the Neverland sign itself. Fairgoers can enjoy the rides for only three tickets as parents and fans of Jackson take pictures with life-size cutouts of the King of Pop next to the Neverland sign.

The joy on faces of the children as they were seated on Michael Jackson's Neverland rides was just what he would have wanted to see while celebrating his 51st birthday this weekend.

The rides were not extravagant or awe-inspiring, but as I stood there next to these normal fair rides that once sat in a spectacular place, it was a little surreal- and brought humanity to a man who always seemed so untouchable.

"I think the children are enjoying the rides," said Fairgoer Corina Olteanu. "It's awesome that they get to get some use out of them instead of them just being looked at just because they came from Neverland."

In the midst of the big midway, sat yet another ride from Neverland that was a bit more amazing. The pink 17th-century-themed swing ride sat almost glorified as attendees young and old rode.

"It almost seems a little weird since he just passed, but the kids are having a really good time," said fair visitor Amanda Couvrette.

Aside from the memorializing rides, there are many exciting exhibits and festivites that have definitely stuck to this years theme of- "Weird, Wild and Wacky."

A sculpture of San Francisco made entirely of toothpicks is a favorite among attendees, drawing massive crowds in the exhibit halls.

The displays depicting the different cities in California are creative and had onlookers talking about the assets of the state and innovations being made.

This year's state fair will definitely leave visitors talking and anticipating what they will do next.

Photos courtesy of Anthony Bento.

Is "The Buzz" Real? How "Classic" is Radio?

2009-07-03T01:32:23Z

Sacramento radio severely suffered two more steps back in the last six weeks. First KWOD-FM (106.5) stopped playing Alternative music, held on to Nirvana and Green Day, then re-birthed as 106.5 The Buzz -- "Totally 90s."

Anyone Else Puking?

Many former KWOD listeners did their marketing for The Buzz by publicly complaining about the new format. This has put The Buzz in a situation that every radio station would love to be in -- Everyone knows they exist. But do they care? No.

Will it last?

No.

It might adjust to add 80's and/or early 2000's music -- which, I might add, it already plays a little bit of. With time it might adjust to sound more like a KGBY-FM (My 92.5) or even KZZO-FM (100.5 The Zone). But it will not last more than 18 months with an all-90's playlist. The 90s lacked as a decade musically. It was great for those in their teens, but the decade only has approximately 300 songs to choose from. That will get old very fast.

Consider that in the last week The Buzz played 57 of those 300 songs at least 10 times. That's two full days of music. See why this will get old fast? When you can't play new music, you are bound to bury yourself. Hence why I do not think "all 90s" will last more than 18 months.

Classic Clear Channel

Clear Channel did it again. They started up a "radio station in a box" on their new 93.1 FM frequency. Touting "70's and 80's Classic Hits" they decided to start playing music already heard on multiple Sacramento-area radio stations. Many of those of which have local on-air hosts.

"Classic 93.1" does have DJs, and they are pre-recorded from markets around the country, including San Diego and New York. This was blatantly obvious when Michael Jackson passed away last week. Almost every radio station in Sacramento was conducting on-air tributes of some sort. Two of those even received TV coverage for their tributes (KCCL-FM 92.1, KHYL-FM 101.1). But, 93.1 was oblivious.

And this is how Clear Channel is paving the way for the radio industry. Thanks guys!

Feedback Time: Here's a question I'd love to have you post your answer to:

If someone handed you the keys to an FM radio station in Sacramento, what type of programming would you offer? Why?