'The Ryman Diaries' Historical Play Adds November and December Shows at Miss Jeanne's Mystery Dinner Theatre

     NASHVILLE, Tenn. (October 2016) – Actor/playwrights Tom Dolan and Debbie Mathis Watts are extending the run of their multi-media musical stage play "The Ryman Diaries" with pre-holiday matinees at Miss Jeanne's Mystery Dinner Theatre in Nashville. 

     Theatre-goers can celebrate Captain Tom Ryman's 175th birthday with the show and brunch on Nov. 13 and Dec. 11. Showtimes are 12 p.m. (dinner) and 1 p.m. (show) on Sunday. Admission is $38 (show with dinner) and $18 (show only). 

     The riverboat legend was born on Oct. 12, 1841. Mayor Megan Barry signed a proclamation naming Oct. 12, 2016 as Captain Tom Ryman Day.

     Described as a 19th Century love story, "The Ryman Diaries" is a historical drama that depicts the life and times of Cumberland riverboat Captain Tom Ryman as told through the eyes of his wife, Bettie Baugh Ryman. The story covers 70 years of the couple's lives through film media, stage acting, and original musical numbers. It tells of their unlikely romance, marriage, entrepreneurship, raising seven children on a riverboat, ultimate success, Christian conversion at a tent meeting, and the building of the Union Gospel Tabernacle. 

     The play is based on Watts' book, with additional dialog from Dolan. The actors penned seven original songs for the production. Film clips feature flashbacks of young Bettie and historical stills provided by the Metro Archives. 

     "We are thrilled to extend the show with brunch as a continued celebration of Captain Ryman's 175th birthday," said Watts, a former producer for various shows on TNN: The Nashville Network. "He and his wife Bettie were true romantics who laid the musical foundation for Middle Tennessee." 

     A veteran educator, professional pianist-vocalist, and author, Watts' theatrical roles include Mollie in "Mousetrap" and Agnes in "I Do, I Do". Dolan has received national acclaim starring as Elwood P. Dowd in "Harvey", Dr. Albert Schweitzer in "Memoirs from Africa", and Sam Clemens in "Mark Twain Live". The actors also star in a new play in San Diego based on the lives of John and Lillie Spreckels. 

     Miss Jeanne's Mystery Dinner Theatre is located at 2416 Music Valley Drive. To buy tickets for "The Ryman Diaries", call (615) 902-9566 or visit http://www.MissJeannes.com. To learn more about the play, visit http://wattsd2.wix.com/rymandiaries.

###

A 'FEARLESS! Celebration

            COOKEVILLE, Tenn. (July 2016) – Actors Valerie Connelly (right) and John Armstrong celebrate after performing as characters Nikki and Daniel in the Broadway-style show "FEARLESS! The Golden Love Musical". The play continues its world premiere at the Cookeville (Tennessee) Performing Arts Center through July 17. Connelly, a Cookeville playwright/composer, spent many years writing what some are calling today's version of "West Side Story" and "The Sound of Music". "FEARLESS!" centers on a 60-something divorcee who befriends a widower later in life. What does a mother/grandmother do when a man falls for her at this age? Connelly uses playful dialog, heartfelt songs, and elaborate dance moves to bring the two friends and/or potential "Boomer" lovebirds to life. Connelly is a songwriter-performer, fine artist, film score composer, and book publisher with numerous albums and books to her credit. Armstrong, who serves as the food and beverage director for the Clarion Inn Cookeville, has performed with a number of theatre groups across the country. Ticket sales benefit the Putnam County Habitat for Humanity's new Cookeville West End Place Housing Initiative, the Bryan Symphony Orchestra, TTU Tech Players, and the Mustard Seed Ranch for endangered, at-risk children. More than 100 area businesses and organizations have donated their products and services to help make the play possible. To buy tickets, visit www.cookeville-tn.gov/ls/cpac/cpac-calendar/ or call (931) 528-1313. Learn more about the play at www.FearlessTheMusical.com. (Photo by Chuck Whiting)

'FEARLESSLY' GIVING FOR NON-PROFIT CAUSES

            NASHVILLE, Tenn. (June 2016) – Actors Valerie Connelly (second from left) and John Armstrong (fourth from left) welcome Mustard Seed Ranch Executive Director Tammy Depperschmidt (first from left) and Putnam County Habitat for Humanity Office Manager Becky Burnett to a sponsorship dinner for "FEARLESS! TheGolden Love Musical". The Broadway-style show will hold its world premiere at the Cookeville (Tenn.) Performing Arts Center from July 7-17. Ticket sales will benefit the Putnam County Habitat for Humanity's new Cookeville West End Place Housing Initiative, the Bryan Symphony Orchestra, TTU Tech Players, and the Mustard Seed Ranch for endangered, at-risk children. More than 100 area businesses and organizations have donated their products and services to help make the play possible. The dinner was hosted in Cookeville by the First National Bank of Tennessee. Connelly, a Cookeville playwright/composer, spent many years writing what some are calling today's version of "West Side Story" and "The Sound of Music". "FEARLESS!" centers on divorcee Nikki (portrayed by Connelly) and widower Daniel (portrayed by Armstrong), 60-somethings who befriend each other later in life. What does a mother/grandmother do when a man falls for her at this age? Connelly uses playful dialog, heartfelt songs, and elaborate dance moves to bring the two friends and/or potential "Boomer" lovebirds to life. To buy tickets, visit www.cookeville-tn.gov/ls/cpac/cpac-calendar/ or call (931) 528-1313. (Photo by Chuck Whiting)

'FEARLESS!' Tunesmiths

            NASHVILLE, Tenn. (June 2016) – Actor/composer Valerie Connelly (center) welcomes Nashville singer-songwriters Katie Brooks (first from left) and Angel Pontier to the sponsorship dinner for "FEARLESS! The Golden Love Musical". The Broadway-style show will hold its world premiere at the Cookeville (Tenn.) Performing Arts Center from July 7-17. Ticket sales will benefit the Putnam County Habitat for Humanity's new Cookeville West End Place Housing Initiative, the Bryan Symphony Orchestra, TTU Tech Players, and the Mustard Seed Ranch for endangered, at-risk children. Brooks and Pontier co-produced an informational video about the play. More than 100 Middle Tennessee businesses and organizations have donated their products and services to help make the show possible. The dinner was hosted in Cookeville by the First National Bank of Tennessee. Connelly, a Cookeville playwright/composer, spent many years writing what some are calling today's version of "West Side Story" and "The Sound of Music". "FEARLESS!" centers on divorcee Nikki (portrayed by Connelly) and widower Daniel (portrayed by John Armstrong), 60-somethings who befriend each other later in life. What does a mother/grandmother do when a man falls for her at this age? Connelly uses playful dialog, heartfelt songs, and elaborate dance moves to bring the two friends and/or potential "Boomer" lovebirds to life. To buy tickets, visit www.cookeville-tn.gov/ls/cpac/cpac-calendar/ or call (931) 528-1313. (Photo by Chuck Whiting)

'FEARLESS! The Golden Love Musical' to Bring Music, Dance and Comedy to Cookeville Stage

By Chuck Whiting

MCAU Editor

            COOKEVILLE, Tenn. (June 2016) -- The Broadway-style play "FEARLESS! The Golden Love Musical" will hold its world premiere in Middle Tennessee from July 7-17, bringing music, dance and comedy to the 450-seat Cookeville (Tenn.) Performing Arts Center.

            The show, which features a vibrant cast (including two puppies) and a 21-piece orchestra, will benefit the Putnam County Habitat for Humanity's new Cookeville West End Place Housing Initiative, the Bryan Symphony Orchestra, TTU Tech Players, and the Mustard Seed Ranch for endangered, at-risk children. "FEARLESS!" stars Valerie Connelly, a Cookeville playwright/composer who spent many years writing what some are calling today's version of "West Side Story" and "The Sound of Music".

            The eight-performance show times are 7 p.m. from Thursday-Saturday (July 7, 8, 9, 14, 15 and 16) and 2 p.m. on Sunday (July 10 and 17). Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis for $16 (adults age 18 and over), $12 (seniors age 62 and over), and $10 (students age 17 and under, and individuals in groups of five or more). Ticket sale proceeds from the play will benefit the four nonprofits. CPAC is located at 10 E. Broad St. in downtown Cookeville. To buy tickets, visit www.cookeville-tn.gov/ls/cpac/cpac-calendar/ or call (931) 528-1313.

 
            "I'm thrilled to stage the world premiere of my musical at the beautiful CPAC theatre in Cookeville," said Connelly, who describes her play as a wholesome family double-love story.

            Advance reviews and feedback have been strong, with one previewer praising Connelly's play for "provoking toe-tapping, laughter, and tears." The story's characters sing and dance across the stage, expressing 2016 challenges, opportunities, joys and the importance of fearlessness in the pursuit of life, love and happiness.

            "FEARLESS!" centers on divorcee Nikki and widower Daniel, 60-somethings who befriend each other later in life. What does a mother/grandmother do when a man falls for her at this age? Connelly uses playful dialog, heartfelt songs, and elaborate dance moves to bring the two friends and/or potential "Boomer" lovebirds to life. Meanwhile, Nikki's daughter and son-in-law have love-related challenges of their own.

            Connelly's parents introduced her to Broadway theatre at an early age. The artist has worked countless hours to perfect her creation after meeting with a number of highly respected New York theatre professionals.

Valerie Connelly performs songs from "FEARLESS! The Golden Love Musical" (Photo by Hal Alpiar)

            "Producers loved the music, and they made terrific constructive suggestions for the story," Connelly continued. "I took it back to the drawing board and revamped it considerably. I added some songs, changed some others, added more drama to balance the comedy, and in general increased the strength of the storyline."

            The composer/playwright was surprised when the directors asked her to portray the play's lead character, Nikki, after the actress originally tapped to play the character fell ill. As a "Boomer" herself and a professional performer for many years, she is enjoying a return to the stage.

            "'FEARLESS!' feels like a real love story, even though it's a fictional one," the artist said. "It reaches into the heart and pulls on it -- to give the viewer a reason to feel the full range of human emotion."

            The play features a Middle Tennessee cast with educators and students from Tennessee Tech University. "FEARLESS!" will be directed by TTU theatre professor Mark Creter. Other directors include Middle Tennessee State University professor and veteran conductor Mendy Richards as musical director; Jennifer Dotson-Creter of Stage One Dance Studio as choreographer; TTU theatre design professor Colin Forsyth as set designer; and TTU technical theatre instructor Nick Ryan as light designer. The 21-person orchestra includes professional musicians and TTU students who were brought together by well-known percussionist Don Lordo.

            "We have a strong cast drawn from all walks of life with great talent and a terrific will to give their best performances," added Connelly, who realized her dream after raising more than $15,000 through the support of local individuals, businesses and organizations.

            Connelly is a Cookeville-based songwriter-performer, fine artist, film score composer, and book publisher with nine albums to her credit. She is writing her seventh book, a novel. The Cornell College (Bachelor of Arts) and Northwestern University (Master of Arts) graduate joined ASCAP in 1987 as a songwriter and professional performer and has composed hundreds of songs. She wrote her first musical, "Nothing Is Ours But Time", in 1994, and the one-act musical, "Her Story", presented at Cookeville's ART a la Carte in 2013. She has performed and tested many of the songs from "FEARLESS!" at the "Tunesmithing" songwriters showcase in Nashville. Her book publishing company, Nightengale Media LLC, has published more than 200 books for authors around the world. Also a visual artist and educator, she has created hand-carved block printed images and illustrations for gift items and children's books. 

            To learn more about Valerie Connelly and her play, visit www.fearlessthemusical.com.

###

                  Businesses, organizations and individuals have supported the first staging of "FEARLESS!" through sponsorships and donations of cash or in-kind services. Supporters include the following businesses: First National Bank of Tennessee, OUTBACK Steakhouse, Copeland Veterinary Hospital, Tractor Supply, Critter Cottage, Southern Paws Spa, The Outdoor Experience, Market on the Square, WORLD FOODS, Cookeville Bicycles, EXIT Rocky Top Realty, Johnson's Nursery & Garden Center, French's Shoes and Boots, Office Max, Shaffield's Furniture, Williams Wholesale Supply, Magical Music Gallery, LAMAR Advertising, Papa John's, Sam's Club, Fairfield by Marriott, Clarion Inn, Rib City, Kneaded Together Bakery, Del Monaco Winery, Cookeville Budweiser, Liquor World, Bluewaters Equipment Rentals, Cumberland Auto, Wilson Bank & Trust, Skender-Newton Realty, Kroger, Carlen Chevrolet, New York Life/Andrea and Terry Burckhard, Ford Lincoln of Cookeville, The Law Office of Donna Simpson, Hampton Inn & Suites, Party City, Copy Pack and Ship, Poet's, Carmike Cinema, State Farm Insurance/John White, One-Hour Martinizing Dry Cleaning, CPA's Cannon Clark Holman & Associates PLLC, Firehouse Subs, Trademark Printing, WALKER Investment Company Real Estate Development, First Tennessee Bank, Abel Gardens Florist & Gifts, Adecco Employment Recruiters, Belk Department Store, Old Navy, Cookeville Transmission Co., Country Inn & Suites, Crawdaddy's Restaurant, HUB Radio Stations, Stonecom Radio Stations, McCool's Video & Photography, Planet Fitness, TAYS Realty & Auctions, Winell-Lee Mouldings & Hardwoods, Benjamin Moore Paints, Cardinal Computer, Crossroads Music, and Tennessee Technological University.

'FEARLESS! The Golden Love Musical' to Premiere in Middle Tennessee July 7-17

            COOKEVILLE, Tenn. (May 2016) -- The Broadway-style play "FEARLESS! The Golden Love Musical" will hold its world premiere on July 7, 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 16 and 17 at the 450-seat Cookeville Performing Arts Center, 10 E. Broad St. in Cookeville, Tennessee. 

            Show times for "FEARLESS!" are 7 p.m. from Thursday-Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis for $16 (adults age 18 and over), $12 (seniors age 62 and over), and $10 (students age 17 and under, and individuals in groups of five or more). Ticket sale proceeds from the play will benefit the Putnam Country Habitat for Humanity's new Cookeville West End Place Housing Initiative, the Bryan Symphony Orchestra, and the Mustard Seed Ranch for endangered, at-risk children. 

            "I'm thrilled to stage the world premiere of my musical at the beautiful CPAC theatre in Cookeville," said Cookeville playwright/composer Valerie Connelly, who spent many years writing what some are calling today's version of "West Side Story" and "The Sound of Music". 

            "FEARLESS!', which features a vibrant cast (including two puppies) and a 24-piece orchestra, is a wholesome family double-love story that previewers agree "provokes toe-tapping, laughter and tears." The story's characters sing and dance across the stage, expressing 2016 challenges, opportunities, joys and the importance of fearlessness in the pursuit of life, love and happiness.

            Connelly is a Cookeville-based songwriter-performer, fine artist, film score composer, and book publisher in Cookeville. She joined ASCAP in 1987 as a songwriter and professional performer and has composed hundreds of songs. Tickets to "FEARLESS! may be purchased online at http://www.cookeville-tn.gov/ls/cpac/cpac-calendar/. To learn more about Valerie Connelly and her play, visit http://www.fearlessthemusical.com. 

'The Ryman Diaires' Continues at Bibb Center Through May 7

          NASHVILLE, Tenn. (May 2015) – Award-winning actor/playwright/director Tom Dolan and author/musician/educator Debbie Mathis Watts will portray Music City legends Captain Tom Ryman and Bettie Baugh Ryman in the multi-media musical stage play "The Ryman Diaries" through May 7 at the Bibb-White Bluff Civic Center.

          The shows will be staged at 7:30 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. No shows will be offered Sunday-Wednesday. Admission is $12. The Bibb Center is located at 10545 Old Charlotte Road in White Bluff, Tenn., near Dickson. 

          Described as a 19th Century love story, "The Ryman Diaries" is a historical drama that depicts the life and times of Cumberland riverboat Captain Tom Ryman as told through the eyes of his wife, Bettie Baugh Ryman. The story covers 70 years of the couple's lives through film media, stage acting, and original musical numbers. It tells of their unlikely romance, marriage, entrepreneurship, raising seven children on a riverboat, ultimate success, Christian conversion at a tent meeting, and the building of the Union Gospel Tabernacle. 

Debbie Watts and Tom Dolan portray Captain Tom Ryman and his wife Bettie.

          The play is based on Watts' book, with additional dialog from Dolan. The actors penned seven original songs for the production. Film clips feature flashbacks of young Bettie and historical stills provided by the Metro Archives. 

          "Both Bettie and Tom had the hearts of musicians, so it was totally fitting that they would play and sing," said Watts, a former producer for various shows on TNN: The Nashville Network. "They were true romantics who laid the musical foundation for Middle Tennessee." 

          A veteran educator, professional pianist-vocalist, and author, Watts' theatrical roles include Mollie in "Mousetrap" and Agnes in "I Do, I Do". Dolan has received national acclaim starring as Elwood P. Dowd in "Harvey", Dr. Albert Schweitzer in "Memoirs from Africa", and Sam Clemens in "Mark Twain Live". The actors also star in a new play in San Diego based on the lives of John and Lillie Spreckels.  

          To buy tickets for "The Ryman Diaries", call (615) 797-1154 or send an e-mail inquiry to Wattsd2@att.net. To learn more about the play, visit http://wattsd2.wix.com/rymandiaries.
 

'The Ryman Diaires' Play Coming to Bibb Center Near Dickson from April 28-May 8

            NASHVILLE, Tenn. (March 2015) – Award-winning actor/playwright/director Tom Dolan and author/musician/educator Debbie Mathis Watts will portray Music City legends Captain Tom Ryman and Bettie Baugh Ryman in the multi-media musical stage play "The Ryman Diaries" from April 28-May 8 (Thursdays-Sundays) at the Bibb-White Bluff Civic Center.

          The shows will be staged at 7:30 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, and 2:30 p.m. on Sundays. No shows will be offered Monday-Wednesday. Admission is $12. The Bibb Center is located at 10545 Old Charlotte Road in White Bluff, Tenn., near Dickson.

          Described as a 19th Century love story, "The Ryman Diaries" is a historical drama that depicts the life and times of Cumberland riverboat Captain Tom Ryman as told through the eyes of his wife, Bettie Baugh Ryman. The story covers 70 years of the couple's lives through film media, stage acting, and original musical numbers. It tells of their unlikely romance, marriage, entrepreneurship, raising seven children on a riverboat, ultimate success, Christian conversion at a tent meeting, and the building of the Union Gospel Tabernacle. 

Debbie Watts and Tom Dolan portray Captain Tom Ryman and his wife Bettie. (Photo from Debbie Watts)

          The play is based on Watts' book, with additional dialog from Dolan. The actors penned seven original songs for the production. Film clips feature flashbacks of young Bettie and historical stills provided by the Metro Archives. 

          "Both Bettie and Tom had the hearts of musicians, so it was totally fitting that they would play and sing," said Watts, a former producer for various shows on TNN: The Nashville Network. "They were true romantics who laid the musical foundation for Middle Tennessee." 

          A veteran educator, professional pianist-vocalist, and author, Watts' theatrical roles include Mollie in "Mousetrap" and Agnes in "I Do, I Do". Dolan has received national acclaim starring as Elwood P. Dowd in "Harvey", Dr. Albert Schweitzer in "Memoirs from Africa", and Sam Clemens in "Mark Twain Live". The actors also star in a new play in San Diego based on the lives of John and Lillie Spreckels.  

          To buy tickets for "The Ryman Diaries", call (615) 797-1154 or send an e-mail inquiry to Wattsd2@att.net. To learn more about the play, visit http://wattsd2.wix.com/rymandiaries.

'The Ryman Diaries' to Return to Downtown Nashville Public Library on July 30 and 31

            NASHVILLE, Tenn. (June 2015)  – Award-winning actor/playwright/director Tom Dolan and author/musician/educator Debbie Mathis Watts will portray Music City legends Captain Tom Ryman and Bettie Baugh Ryman in the multi-media musical stage play "The Ryman Diaries" on July 30 and 31 (Thursday and Friday) at the downtown Nashville Public Library, 615 Church St.  

            The matinee shows, which are being staged during the busy summer tourism season, will begin at 2:30 p.m. in the library's first-floor theater. Admission is $15 for adults, and $12 for senior citizens, students and children.  

Tom Dolan and Debbie Mathis Watts as Captain Tom Ryman and Bettie Baugh Ryman

            Described as a 19th Century love story, "The Ryman Diaries" is a historical drama that depicts the life and times of Cumberland riverboat Captain Tom Ryman as told through the eyes of his wife, Bettie Baugh Ryman. The story covers 70 years of the couple's lives through film media, stage acting, and original musical numbers. It tells of their unlikely romance, marriage, entrepreneurship, raising seven children on a riverboat, ultimate success, Christian conversion at a tent meeting, and the building of the Union Gospel Tabernacle.  

            The play is based on Watts' book, with additional dialog from Dolan. The actors penned seven original songs for the production. Film clips feature flashbacks of young Bettie and historical stills provided by the Metro Archives.  

            "Both Bettie and Tom had the hearts of musicians, so it was totally fitting that they would play and sing," said Watts, a former producer for various shows on TNN: The Nashville Network. "They were true romantics who laid the musical foundation for Middle Tennessee." A veteran educator, professional pianist-vocalist, and author, Watts' theatrical roles include Mollie in "Mousetrap" and Agnes in "I Do, I Do". Dolan has received national acclaim starring as Elwood P. Dowd in "Harvey", Dr. Albert Schweitzer in "Memoirs from Africa", and Sam Clemens in "Mark Twain Live". This fall, the actors will star in a new play in San Diego based on the lives of John and Lillie Spreckels.  

            To buy tickets for "The Ryman Diaries", call (615) 740-5600 or send an e-mail inquiry to Wattsd2@att.net. To learn more about the play, visit http://wattsd2.wix.com/rymandiaries.

MCAU Newsletter: April 1, 2013

MCAU: 
Music City Arts Update

April 1 2013

('TIN PAN SOUTH' WEEK)

Providing resource information and exposure for artists of all kinds

_____________________________________

We proudly support Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI), Country Music Association (CMA), The Recording Academy, SongU, Indie Connect, ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, Film Nashville, Nashville Composers Association, Artists in Nashville, Arts Council of Williamson County, Positive Music Association, Nashville Artists Guild, TJBS, Nashville Songwriters Festival, Nashville Musicians Association, AFM Local 257 and other organizations who do so much for emerging and professional artists.

SPECIAL "TIN PAN SOUTH" COVERAGE: MCAU Editor Chuck Whiting and contributing writer Wil Comstock will provide daily coverage for the "Tin Pan South" songwriting festival this week. Visit http://www.MusicCityArtsUpdate.com during the week for reviews and photos. If you hear anything inspiring or hilarious, please feel free to share it with MCAU at info@MusicCityArtsUpdate.com.

FROM THE EDITOR: Music City Arts Update is changing to a new distribution process. Starting this week, the weekly newsletter will be distributed through Go Daddy's social marketing platform. Go Daddy follows a strict "no spam" policy, which we strongly endorse. If you would like to keep receiving MCAU, you will need to click on the message when it arrives. In the future, you may remove your name from our distribution list at any time. Using Go Daddy will allow us to use better graphics and photos. Our coverage will focus on career and life-changing opportunities for artists of all kinds. If you have any questions or suggestions, please drop me a note atinfo@MusicCityArtsUpdate.com. 

You can sign up for MCAU by clicking on the following link: https://app.expressemailmarketing.com/survey.aspx?SFID=138431 . (Chuck Whiting, Editor)

ARTIST QUOTE FOR APRIL... "Without craftsmanship, inspiration is a mere reed shaken in the wind." --Johannes Brahms

Arts...

April 5 (Friday) -- The "Co-Creator's Coffeehouse" will occur from 7-10 p.m. at the Center for Spiritual Living Nashville, 6705 Charlotte Pike in west Nashville.  Artists of all kinds will share their talents at an open circle from 7-8:45 p.m. Rick Perry will take the stage with an all-star cast from 9-10 p.m.  For more information, send an e-mail to Butterfly at butterfly5891@comcast.net . (B)

April 10 (Wednesday) -- Art and Soul will host the monthly "Compassionate Coffeehouse" from 7-9 p.m. The event will feature performances by songwriters, musicians, poets, dancers, storytellers and other creative expressionists. Artist signups begin at 6:30 p.m. Art and Soul is located at 2305 12th Ave. S. (KRR)

Sundays -- Scarritt-Bennett Center hosts "Vespers & All That Jazz" in Wightman Chapel every Sunday at 6:30 p.m.  The free event will allow individuals to encounter the sacred in a new and unique way through this music-shaped, experiential worship service.  Inspired by jazz as a process of making music and using the music to help individuals experience the interruptive spirit of God, the event encourages compassion, peace, justice and wonder. Info:  http://www.ScarrittBennett.org . (SB)

Communication...

PR Career Building -- Artists and entrepreneurs of all kinds can learn the nuts and bolts of the public relations process (and receive career-changing advice) by attending "Publicizing Your Dream" brainstorming sessions in Nashville. The sessions are specially designed for artists with specific communication needs. Attendees can learn all aspects of publicity, including how to develop a PR game plan, finding the perfect hook for news coverage, honing your writing skills, writing a press release, editing techniques, and creating a newsworthy event. The sessions are led by Chuck Whiting, founder of Whiting Publicity and an adjunct professor of journalism at MTSU and Motlow State Community College. Sessions range from one to three hours. To learn more: Arts@WhitingPublicity.com, or visithttp://www.WhitingPublicity.com. (Whiting Publicity)

Congratulations to...

Harpist Chris "Freight Train" Floyd, who has been named the harmonica player for blues legend Keb' Mo'smonthly blues showcase at Fontanel. The first show is April 1. (CF)

Environmental songstress Earth Mama (a.k.a. Joyce Rouse) of Independence, Va., who made her fourth trip to the rural agricultural island of Molokai, Hawaii, from March 2-8, sharing Earth Literacy insights and songs with children of all ages. See photos from her trip at bit.ly/10hQN5u or http://www.MusicCityArtsUpdate.com. Learn more about Earth Mama at http://www.EarthMama.org . (EM)

Visual artist Charlotte Terrell, who will join fellow artist Alex Smith on April 5 for a month-long exhibition at Bennett Galleries in Knoxville. See Charlotte's work at http://www.CharlotteTerrell.com . (CT)

Singer-songwriter Sonia Lee, whose latest CD "Butterfly" is now playing on the Internet radio station Pandora. (SL)

Film...

April 13-14 (Saturday-Sunday) -- The Nashville Composers Association and "Film-Com" are pleased to present the two-day "Score-Com" seminar “Music – The Script Support System” with composer, songwriter, keyboard player and arranger John Capek at Ocean Way Nashville Recording Studios on Music Row. Details: http://musiccityartsupdate.blogspot.com/2013/03/nca-to-offer-two-day-film-music.html . (NCA)

April 13-19 (Saturday-Friday) -- "Film-Com", one of Nashville's premier connecting and learning events for filmmakers, will feature a wide range of seminars, a new project expo, and a Film/Television Industry Gala. Learn more: http://film-com.com/ . (FN)

April 18-26 (Thursday-Thursday) -- The "Nashville Film Festival" (NaFF) has announced the full line-up of feature films in competition and special presentations for the 44th annual festival. One of the oldest and largest film festivals in the U.S., NaFF will screen more than 200 films. This year submissions topped 3,004, breaking all festival records. Learn more: http://filmnashville.org/nashville-film-festival-announces-2013-special-presentation-lineup/ . (FN)

May 31-June 2 (Friday-Sunday) -- The 15th annual Nashville Screenwriters Festival will occur at the Union Station Hotel with professional panelists, mixers, and the ever-popular "Music in the Movies" lunch and panel with Anastasia Brown. Activities will occur at the Union Station Hotel and the Country Music Hall of Fame's Ford Theater.Register: http://www.nashscreen.com/registration . (NSF)

Read the latest newsletter from Film Nashville: http://musiccityartsupdate.blogspot.com/2013/04/film-nashville-newsletter-march-22-2013.html .

Get Well Soon...

Singer-songwriter Ron Young, who has been diagnosed with a life-threatening illness.  You can write Ron at 205 Brooks Ave., Shertz, TX 78154. (WC)

Singer-songwriter Diane King, who is battling follicular lymphoma.  You can send a get well message to this wonderful singer-songwriter and read her story at http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/missionremission . (AG)

Literature...

April 25 (Thursday) -- Scarritt-Bennett conference center will host the "Poet's Corner" from 7-8 p.m.  Noted poets/writers read selections at The Front Porch @ Scarritt-Bennett, 1000 19th Ave. S. (corner of Grand and 19th). Details: http://www.scarrittbennett.org/programs/pc.aspx . (SB)

May 31-June 2 (Friday-Sunday) -- The 15th annual Nashville Screenwriters Festival will occur at the Union Station Hotel with professional panelists, mixers, and the ever-popular "Music in the Movies" lunch and panel with Anastasia Brown. Activities will occur at the Union Station Hotel and the Country Music Hall of Fame's Ford Theater. Register: http://www.nashscreen.com/registration . (NSF)

Music...
 
***Returning May 30 (Thursday) -- "Tunesmithing Off Music Row" will return with a special celebration to help kick off the "Nashville Songwriters Festival on Music Row". Stay tuned for details, including a special lineup of professional and emerging songwriters. Learn more: Tunesmithing@Earthlink.net, or visithttp://www.Tunesmithing.com . (Whiting Publicity)

April 22 (Monday) -- Have you heard about "Nancy Moran's All-out, Full-fledged, Nothing held-back, Everything-I-can-think-of-to-tell-you Ultimate Booking & Touring Program"? In this in-depth, four-week online and teleconference program (which begins April 22), Nancy is going to walk you through the entire process of booking gigs and planning tours. She is truly going to share everything she can think of to help you book better gigs and to get you out on the road sharing your music with the world! Details:http://musiccityartsupdate.blogspot.com/2013/03/nancy-morans-ultimate-booking-touring.html . (NM)

The Producer's Chair -- Meet and learn invaluable insights from award-winning producers on the last Thursday of each month at Douglas Corner on Eighth Avenue South. "The Producer's Chair" begins at 6 p.m (Doors open at 5 p.m.). Cover: $10.  Details: http://www.TheProducersChair.com or write James Rea atJames@TheProducersChair.com . (JR)

Various -- Indie Connect hosts a number of networking events for musicians and artists of all kinds at 2720 Old Lebanon Road, Ste. 108, in Donelson. The organization offers artist luncheons at 11:30 a.m. on selected Mondays at Corky's Ribs & BBQ, 100 Franklin Road in Brentwood. Fees vary. Full Details and Calendar:http://www.indieconnect.com .  (VR)

Songwriting...

'Tin Pan South' Week: April 2-6 (Tuesday-Saturday) -- For 20 years, the annual "Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival" has featured writers whose songs have become engrained in the fabric of our musical lives, and 2013 promises to offer the best of the best. The event and the addition of two shows at 3rd & Lindsley brings the total number of venues to 10. Learn more about the festival and download the full schedule of performers athttp://www.TinPanSouth.com . Visit http://www.MusicCityArtsUpdate.com during the week for daily reports and photos from various shows. (CC)

April 13-14 (Saturday-Sunday) -- The Nashville Composers Association and "Film-Com" are pleased to present the two-day "Score-Com" seminar “Music – The Script Support System” with composer, songwriter, keyboard player and arranger John Capek at Ocean Way Nashville Recording Studios on Music Row. Details:http://musiccityartsupdate.blogspot.com/2013/03/nca-to-offer-two-day-film-music.html . (NCA)

April 5-6 (Friday-Saturday) -- NSAI will close out "Tin Pan South" week with the in-depth "Spring Training" seminar for songwriters. Learn more: http://musiccityartsupdate.blogspot.com/2013/03/nsais-spring-training-set-for-april-5-6.html . (NSAI)

***Returning May 30 (Thursday) -- "Tunesmithing Off Music Row" will return with a special celebration to help kick off the "Nashville Songwriters Festival" on Music Row. Stay tuned for details, including a special lineup of professional and emerging songwriters. Learn more about "Tunesmithing": Tunesmithing@Earthlink.net, or visit http://www.Tunesmithing.com . (Whiting Publicity)

May 31-June 2 (Friday-Sunday) -- Songwriters from around the world will visit Music City from May 31-June 2 (Friday-Sunday) for the "Nashville Songwriters Festival on Music Row". More than 400 emerging songwriters will take the stage along Demonbreun from noon-midnight Friday-Sunday at venues such as Keeli's Co-Writers Corner, Mirkos Wine & Pasta, Otter's Chicken & Brew, Red Rooster, South, Sunshine, Tin Roof, and Best Western Music Row. The Best Western Music Row will host music industry tables and one-to-one consulting from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday-Sunday. Performance slots still available: Artists may sign up to perform at the festival by writing Cornelius Robertson at popcorn@songwritersfestival.org . Learn more:http://musiccityartsupdate.blogspot.com/2013/04/nashville-songwriters-festival-set-for.html . (NSF)

SongU -- There are always opportunities to hone your songwriting chops and learn from the pros athttp://www.SongU.com . (DA)

"I Create Music EXPO" -- ASCAP's "I Create Music EXPO" will occur from April 18-20, 2013 at the Loews Hollywood Hotel in Los Angeles.  Learn more: http://www.ascap.com/eventsawards/events/expo/ . (ASCAP)

Wednesdays -- The Tennessee Songwriters Association International (TSAI) meets regularly, benefiting tunesmiths at all levels.  Wednesday gatherings typically occur from 7-9 p.m. in Room 200B or Room 413 at the Massey Business Center Building at Belmont University. Details: http://www.tnsai.com . (TSAI)

Thursdays -- Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) stages workshops every week.  For more details, visit http://www.NashvilleSongwriters.com . (NSAI)

BMI Showcase Info -- BMI hosts songwriter showcases in Nashville, New York, LA and other cities.  Info: http://www.bmi.com/events .  (BMI)

Sports...

Blind Golfer Wins Award -- Nashville blind golfer David Meador has been named the winner of the prestigious "Ben Hogan Award", an honor given annually by the Golf Writers Association of America to an individual who has continued to be active despite a physical handicap or serious illness. Read the full story:http://musiccityartsupdate.blogspot.com/2013/03/nashville-blind-golfer-david-meador.html . (Whiting Publicity)

Theatre...

Various Dates -- The Metro Nashville Parks Theatre Department's "New Play Reading Series" will continue this spring. Readings will occur at the Centennial Arts Activities Center (Black Box). The first reading event of the series will occur at 7 p.m. April 22. Details/RSVP: Jaz Dorsey at dramaturgtn@gmail.com . (JD)

Various Dates -- The American Negro Playwright Theatre stages a host of theatrical events at The Next Level, 1008 Charlotte Ave. in Nashville.  Learn more: http://www.anpt.org . (BS)

Visual Art...

***Watercolor Painting Classes -- Gail McDaniel, an acclaimed watercolor artist/instructor who has served as an associate member of the Winsor & Newton Creative Artist Network of London, England, will teach a series of watercolor painting classes in Middle Tennessee starting on April 30 (Brentwood) and May 1 (Nashville). Read the full story at http://musiccityartsupdate.blogspot.com/2013/04/gail-mcdaniel-to-teach-watercolor.html. (Whiting Publicity)

Second Monday -- The Arts Council of Williamson County's "Art: Up Close and Personal" evening speaker series occurs from 6-7:30 p.m. in the main conference room of the Williamson County Public Library, 1314 Columbia Pike in Franklin, Tenn. Details:  info@artscouncilwc.org or http://www.artscouncilwc.org . (ACWC)

Second or Third Friday -- The Arts Council of Williamson County's "Brown Bag Lunch Bunch" occurs from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on the second or third Friday of each month in the main conference room of the Williamson County Public Library, 1314 Columbia Pike in Franklin, Tenn. Details:  info@artscouncilwc.org orhttp://www.artscouncilwc.org . (ACWC)

First Saturday -- A host of galleries participate in Nashville's monthly "Art Crawl". The next "Art Crawl" is April 6.  Times vary.

Conferences, Festivals, Events, and Auditions...

"Tin Pan South", April 2-6, Nashville.

NSAI's "Spring Training", April 5-6, Nashville.

"Score-Com", April 13-14, Nashville.

"Film-Com", April 13-19, Nashville.

The "Nashville Film Festival", April 18-26, Nashville.

ASCAP "I Create Music EXPO", April 18-20, Los Angeles.

"Nashville Screenwriters Festival", May 31-April 2, Nashville.

Nashville Songwriters Festival On Music Row", May 31-June 2, Nashville.


Music City Arts Update, which is distributed weekly, spotlights the accomplishments of artists and arts-related businesses and organizations of all kinds. Basic mentions in the monthly newsletter are free (based on time and space availability). Feel free to pass this on to others who might be interested. See photos and longer stories at http://www.MusicCityArtsUpdate.com or http://www.NashvilleArtsUpdate.com .The newsletter is written and distributed by Chuck Whiting of Whiting Publicity & Promotions. Contributing writers are welcome to submit stories about arts-related opportunities and achievements. Please note that all written materials in this newsletter are copyright 2013 -- used by permission only.  Thank you!