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Here are some photos from the Premiere of Of Equal Measure. Isn't he great? But look .... no beard! 
 Source: Getty Images REVIEWS ARTICLES INTERVIEWS THEATER-GOERS THOUGHTS "This was a fabulous show the actors were great and the actress was even better. She played that part as if it was her own life." -- User Jontelyn "The storyline is new - I learned a bit of history from it (here's hoping the script is true to history as I don't intend to research it and verify it). The performances with one or two exceptions were solid, with particular kudos to the lead actress - she's exceptional. The theatrical experience was great - loved the new theatre surroundings - the staging was good. Actors were a bit hard to hear at times (we were in the last row) - suggest they mike the actors in the future. Lawrence Pressman is always a joy to watch act - his performance of Woodrow Wilson was good - although the script had him written as a dimwitted buffoon - and I would have liked to see a more multi-dimensional character rather than a one-note caricature of Wilson. He couldn't have been that stupid and be elected - but wait - considering the current occupant of the office - maybe I spoke too soon. One note I didn't care for - sometimes these major productions cast well-known actors perhaps from television to increase box office appeal, which is understandable, but they aren't always the best actor for the part. It's sort of stunt casting - and I'm a bigger fan of matching the actor to the part closer, rather than just putting a "name" in the production to increase box office receipts. The novelty of seeing a recognizable actor actually cheapens the theatrical experience for me - I'd rather see an unknown actor that's perfect for the part instead - but perhaps that's just my preference. Others might like to see recognizable actors for the "fun". Nice details in set decorations, though minimized for ease of set changes, which were cumbersome in this production and needed to be darkened so we could not see them so easily. All in all I recommend seeing this production." -- User Theater Goer "Terrific acting by the entire cast. Although there is some fiction in the play, it did show Pres. Woodrow Wilson in a different historical light. Not as liberal as some may think." -- User Phil S These, and more reviews posted by theater-goers are available at the link below. Source: Goldstar.com
REVIEWS INTERVIEWS BLOG SPOTS
The Very White House Saturday night I went to the Kirk Douglas Theater in Culver City to see the excellent new play by Tanya Barfield, "Of Equal Measure." Set between 1914 and 1917, this show is centered on "Miss Jade Kingston," an African-American secretary in the Woodrow Wilson White House who witnesses the Wilson Administration's efforts to covertly segregate the federal government. In addition to race relations, this play deals with the right of women to vote and America's entry into World War I. Heavy topics all, but Barfield manages to write a political play entertaining enough to keep the audience interested. Michael T. Weiss plays a particularly odious character -- Edward Christianson, an assistant to the President who puts the moves on his African-American secretary while at the same time strong-arming segregationist policies into place. I have to admit to not knowing much about President Wilson. It was interesting to see how he was portrayed as an intellectual torn between his campaign promises and political reality (a Democrat, in 1912 Wilson defeated Republican incumbent William Howard Taft, ex-president Theodore Roosevelt running on the Progressive ticket and labor leader Eugene V. Debs running as a Socialist). It's also fascinating to think about the timeline of women getting the right to vote. I'm thinking my Great Grandmother, Eva Dover, -- who I knew -- probably came of age right about the time women were allowed to vote. Sure wish I could talk to her about that. Posted by ImTedGreen Sunday, July 13, 2008 The Play: Of Equal Measure: Highlights "Of Equal Measure, Tanya Barfield's new civil rights-minded play set in Woodrow Wilson's White House," Center Theater Group I just came back from seeing the new play titled Of Equal Measure written by Tanya Barfield*. The play focuses on a fictional stenographer named Jade who works for a Presidential Advisor of President Woodrow Wilson and specifically covers Wilson's second term in office when he prepares the country for WWI despite his earlier reservations. Although Wilson runs a progressive campaign while seeking office and promises to make the country a democracy for all including "Negroes". The play shows his hypocrisy as he supposedly becomes enamored with DW Griffith's technologically groundbreaking movie Birth of a Nation. . He also buys the message on some level and becomes convinced, according to the playwright, to support its allies by going to war enlisting both white and Black troops, the latter of which he neglects to the point, some of these soldiers freeze to death for lack of blankets and boots.(I need to check authenticity of this account as I suspect both white abd Black froze to death in that awful War, although I am sure the Black soldiers were more neglected.) Going to war is also premised on the spectacular accusation that Germany plans to arm Mexican troops who will suppposedly enlist Negro men into its ranks to fight their own countrymen. This is a time when lynchings are occuring at an increasing rate which Wilson says he deplores but ends up doing nothing about it. The historical accuracy and "facts" of some of these pronouncements are obvously made up but the basic ideas (& historical context) and parallels to G.W. Bush's reason for going into Iraq are clearly evident. Early on Wilson claims he likes Pancho Villa, becaue he want to free Mexico; however, by the end he is saying "he is a terrorist" Kill him". When confronted with the news that hundreds of wounded veterans with arms, legs, and eyes missing are camped outside the White House, he "freezes up" and can hardly get himself together until an aid says meeting with these men will do him some good. They will spin the story in Wilson's favor, make him look good by the fact he will greet the men. He wants to call the name of each one but is told there are just too many. Jade, the stenographer, with much agonizing and remorse, "allows" her white boss, the one who works for Wilson, to seduce her in return for a job at the White House for her brother who is in danger of being hurt or killed at his other job. She also is forced to type a list of "Negroes" who work for the White House who the administration plans to force into "segregated" sections in the White House and later to be laid off. It is not clear she knows what she is doing. It all becomes clear in the end. There is also a white Catholic Irish man in The Play's White House who turns out to be an important character. I guess he represents "white conscience" and paralells in some ways Jade's experience. I enjoyed Michole Briana White who played the stenographer. She is a naturally good actor and you don't notice she is acting. The actor, Lawrence Pressman plays Woodrow Wilson. Pressman is a familiar face who conveys Wilson as a person with strength, an effete nature, and much egomania. He would also make a great Franklin Rooselvelt as he looks like him. It wouldn't take much to extend the personality to FDR though FDR was a much more effective President but not necessarily brighter than Wilson. It all goes to show, brains don't alway make much difference, the heart matters too. Source: http://leftturnonrights.blogspot.com/2008/07/play-of-equal-measure.html Friday, July 11, 2008 First off, everyone should go see Of Equal Measure at the Kirk Douglas. Tanya Barfield and Leigh Silverman are not messing around. Plus it has one of my favorite L.A. actors, J.D. Cullum (who was too much fun to see as a border guard in Weeds last week), and Michael T. Weiss in a smarmy role. He's fun to watch, although to me he'll always be Dr. Michael Horton on Days of our Lives, even if he doesn't list it in his bio. And Michole Briana White is wonderful. Go go go. Source: http://frankswildlunch.blogspot.com/2008/07/few-updates.html
In "Of Equal Measure," rising playwright Tanya Barfield takes an unusual look at the Woodrow Wilson presidency through the eyes of an African American stenographer working at the White House. Opens Fri.; ends July 29. Kirk Douglas Theatre. $20-$40. www.centertheatregroup.com Source: L.A. Times Interview with Michole Brianna White:
The new play Of Equal Measure, now getting its world premiere at Los Angeles' Kirk Douglas Theatre, marks the sixth collaboration between playwright Tanya Barfield and director Leigh Silverman, and the director admits that it took her a little while to warm up to the subject matter ... You can read the full article here: And now for the latest photos!: 
I usually try to link these to what's posted in the scrapbook, but as it's currently offline, you can get the original piccys from the Center Theater Group website and I will link them to the scrapbook as soon as transfer is complete.
Go see this play! Last night a friend took me to the preview of "Of Equal Measure" It's complex and captivating. I'm usually not a fan of historical plays, but this show is riveting. Talk about history repeating itself. The story keeps you engaged with fascinating characters and smart dialogue. Both of us loved it. Source: New York Times: The Guide (Posted by user: Knott who gave it 4 out of 4 stars)
It might surprise you -- as it certainly did director Leigh Silverman -- that near the turn of the 20th century, more African-Americans worked in positions of authority at the White House than whites. But President Wilson's systematic segregation of his home of eight years, along with most of the political world in Washington, D.C., set progress back more than a generation. This is the world that playwright Tanya Barfield dove into headfirst with Silverman, her longtime collaborator. They emerged with "Of Equal Measure," in production now at the Kirk Douglas Theatre in Culver City. .... You can read the full article here: Photo Credit: Craig Schwartz Source: Ventura County Star
Iowa releases on DVD in South Africa before Christmas and will be available all over Europe soon. Netflix will also begin renting it. Iowa Official Website Matt Farnsworth Website - under reconstruction Full Fathom 5 - under reconstruction till end of July
The Center Theater Group website has been updated with an Of Equal Measure Discovery Guide which details more on the play (including roles of the cast and the history behind the story (that of the Woodrow Wilson presidency) .... very interesting! It seems that Michael's character has quite a role in the play. Not quite the male lead, but he plays an important one! Below is an excerpt from this guide: An ambitious young African-American woman who grew up in poverty, Jade Kingston is proud to have a job with the federal government, especially as opportunities are very limited for African Americans. And she's even more proud when she is promoted to the White House office of Edward Christianson, an unofficial "advisor" to President Woodrow Wilson. But Jade's pride and ambition make her unwilling to acknowledge that Christianson is a staunch racist and segregationist determined to purge the government of its African-American workers. Jade's brother, Eugene, works for the post office, but what he really wants to be is an artist. When Christianson's racist mission threatens not only Eugene's job but also his life, Eugene pressures Jade to use her "influence" with her boss to get him another position. Although Jade has so far managed to resist her boss' sexual advances, to help her brother (and preserve her own job?) she becomes Christianson's mistress. Many thanks to my dear friend Charlotte for the heads-up! Source: Center Theater Group As a hot topic for discussion on the Kindred Spirits Fan Forum, I have received information about the Huntington's Spotlight Spectacular this past May 5th! Here's the email I received: Thanks so much for your note. Michael T. Weiss did not attend this year's Spotlight Spectacular and we have no photos of him. We'll be adding general photos of the event to our website this summer. One of his paintings was, indeed, auctioned off as part of our silent auction, and from what I understand, it did very well and everyone was very pleased with it. There are no plans currently for him to appear as part of our 2008-2009 season. Thanks so much for your interest in the Huntington and our gala. Best wishes, T. Gill Director of Marketing Huntington Theatre Company
(L to R) Kirk Douglas Theatre Production Manager Celeste Santamassino, cast member Michael T. Weiss, projection designer Jason H. Thompson, KDT Technical Director Shannon Nickerson and cast member Christopher O'neal Warren in rehearsals for Of Equal Measure. Photo Credit: Craig Schwartz Source: Center Theater Group
With the nation on the brink of World War I, one woman's personal battle begins. A riveting new play from one of the theatre's rising stars Europe is close to social and political crisis. Woodrow Wilson's cabinet debates going to war and which side to take. At home, the administration's segregationist policies contrast American democratic values--a fact not lost on Jade Kingston, an ambitious African-American stenographer employed in the White House, and her brother, Eugene, an aspiring artist with big dreams. As World War I rapidly approaches, Jade faces difficult choices that could compromise her career, challenge her spirit and threaten her own ideals of America's duty to its citizens and its place as a world power. CLICK HERE for the Program Magazine. Source: Center Theater Group
Actress LisaGay leaves Of Equal Measure production citing personal reasons. Read more in the latest article below.
A riveting new play from one of the theatre's rising stars With Europe on the brink of social and political crisis, Woodrow Wilson's cabinet debates going to war and which side to take. At home, the administration's segregationist policies contrast American democratic values--a fact not lost on Jade Kingston (LisaGay Hamilton), an ambitious African-American stenographer employed in the White House, and her brother, Eugene, an aspiring artist with big dreams. As World War I rapidly approaches, Jade faces difficult choices that could compromise her career, challenge her spirit and threaten her own ideals of America's duty to its citizens and its place as a world power. They have added a a list of credits as well. I have been informed that after the play starts they should have the program posted with cast bios. Source: Center Theater Group
They're Playing Around With the Past {excerpt} For the playwright Tanya Barfield, the chance to link past and present has been irresistible. Mostly known for intimate characters studies like her 2006 drama "Blue Door," she uses a different approach in "Of Equal Measure," an epic-minded, 10-actor piece about a woman who sees injustices in Woodrow Wilson's presidency. (The play will have its premiere at the Center Theater Group in June.) "I've never really studied history," Ms. Barfield said, "but when I finally came to this period, it caught fire with me. The relationship between the Wilson administration and the current administration is too glaring to ignore. If you were being generous, you could say they share a belief that we need to help foreign nations by bringing them democracy." As she revises "Of Equal Measure," Ms. Barfield said, she is acutely aware of balancing trivia with storytelling. "I'm a stickler for being credible and researching the facts," she said, "but I only use what's necessary to the play. I'm a harsh critic, and I think if I get bored, then other people will get bored." Source: New York Times Published: March 16, 2008Of Equal Measure by Tanya Barfield at Center Theatre Group, Los Angeles, CA. Directed by Leigh Silverman July 10,2008 through July 27, 2008
Set in and around the White House during the Wilson administration, Of Equal Measure's catalyst is the segregation of African-Americans in civil service at the onset of World War I. The play follows the actions of both the Presidential Cabinet and the character of Jade, an ambitious African-American stenographer in the White House who has access to strategic information. As the Cabinet explores how to integrate the United States into high-stakes global politics and begins removing black federal workers from their jobs, Jade has to decide what kind of American citizen she will be. This is further complicated when the United States enters World War I and Jade's younger brother, whom she has looked after since the two were orphaned, becomes prime fodder for the draft. Jade witnesses first-hand the paradox of Wilson bringing the United States into the war in order that "the world be made safe for democracy," while trampling civil rights at home by ordering the segregation of black federal employees and imprisoning individuals critical of the war effort. The effects that these actions have on Jade, her job, her family, and her country fuel a compelling story that resonates both socially and politically in today's world. Artistic Statement When I first read an early draft of Tanya Barfield's Of Equal Measure, I knew immediately that it was a play I wanted on our stages. It is smart, deeply engaging, and especially relevant as we enter an election year. Set during the Wilson administration, at the juncture of historical transformation, Of Equal Measure raises crucial questions about civic responsibility on both a micro and macro scale. It is my hope that Tanya's thoughtful examination of this important and highly-complex segment in our country's history will generate meaningful dialogue about our political past and present, as well as what it means to be American. Of Equal Measure is the first of many Center Theatre Group commissions arranged through our New Play Production Program that we ourselves will produce and that I hope will grace stages across the country. We launched the New Play Production Program during my first year at Center Theatre Group with the goal of bringing a variety of new and topical American plays to our stages. Given the importance of this new program to our mission and artistic vision, the world premiere of Of Equal Measure is a certainly a milestone for the institution. Source: Theater Communications Group Find out more about Tanya Barfield at: New Dramatists.org
Casting has been announced for the world premiere of Tanya Barfield's Of Equal Measure, which is scheduled to begin previews June 29 at the Kirk Douglas Theatre in California. Set in World War I America, Of Equal Measure, press notes state, "provides an illuminating perspective of the Woodrow Wilson presidency as viewed through the character of Jade Kingston (LisaGay Hamilton), an African American stenographer working in the White House. Michael joins Christian Campbell, Dennis Cockrum, Scott Dawson, LisaGay Hamilton, Michael Hyland, Joseph C. Phillips, Lawrence Pressman, T. Ryder Smith and Christopher Warren. The Kirk Douglas Theatre is located at 9820 Washington Blvd. in Culver City, CA. Tickets are on sale now by calling (213) 628-2772 or by visiting www.CenterTheatreGroup.org. Source: Playbill.com
The 2008 Drama Desk Awards was webcast live by Theater Mania at 9pm ET May 18th. Unfortunately, after sitting up until well after my bedtime to watch and see if Michael won .... he didn't, though he should have. At least he was nominated though .... hopefully next time! List of winners in all categories Photo Feature (sorry, no Michael) Since posting this bit of news earlier today, some photos of Michael from Sunday night's event have surfaced! 
 Many thanks to my dear friend Bibi for coming across these! They are larger in size in the scrapbook!
The photo's caption reads: Michael T. Weiss looks very different than he did on stage as the drunken dad in the Atlantic Theater's Scarcity, for which he received a Featured Actor nomination. The Official Drama Desk Cocktail Reception honoring this year's Drama Desk Award Nominees was held Thursday, May 1, from 4 to 7 PM at Arte Cafe, 106 W. 73rd Street, between Columbus and Amsterdam Avenues, where nominees received their Nomination Certificates. Many of this year's Drama Desk Awards nominees attended the reception. Nominees created personalized sketches for the Drama Desk's Art*Kives program, now in its seventh year. Sponsors of the reception include Arte Café and Grey Goose Vodka. 
 Many thanks to my dear friend Isa for coming across these! They are also in the scrapbook where they are a little larger. Source: Theater Mania Source: Broadway World
I'd bet a lot that viewers of "Fade" would be hard-pressed to identify its source topic, fatal familial insomnia, without visiting the official Web site. (It may be cheating, but that's what I did.) Lead character Arthur can't get any sleep, and the late David Connolly did an uncomfortably accurate job conveying the physical and mental deterioration of the exhausted. What's not apparent, however, is whether his sleep problems are real or just manifestations of marital breakdown .... ... begins the first review available for Anthony Stagliano's Fade. As always, draw your OWN conclusions! You can read the remainder of the review here. FADE is due out on DVD June 10th and is available for pre-order at many online retailers including Amazon.com.
Nominations for the 53rd Annual Drama Desk Awards were announced this morning at the New York Friars Club by Bebe Neuwirth and Len Cariou, multi-award winning stage, screen and television stars. The nominees for "Outstanding Featured Actor in a Play" for the 53rd Annual Drama Desk Awards are: John Cullum, The Conscientious Objector Conleth Hill, The Seafarer Francis Jue, Yellow Face Arian Moayed, Masked Jeff Perry, August: Osage County Michael T. Weiss, Scarcity The 53rd Annual Drama Desk Awards will be held Sunday, May 18, 2008, in the LaGuardia Concert Hall at Lincoln Center. The awards show will be webcast for the sixth year in a row by TheaterMania.com. It will also be broadcast live on satellite radio's XM - 28 On Broadway for the second consecutive year. Tickets ($225.00/$800.00) can be ordered here. Drama Desk nominees will receive their official nomination certificates at a cocktail reception on Thursday, May 1, 4:00 to 7:00 PM at Arte Cafe, 106 West 73rd Street, between Broadway and Columbus Avenue. Source: Drama Desk
Don't forget, FADE premieres in Chicago May 2nd. Goto news for March 28th for dates/times.
2008 Winners: Drama: One of Us Comedy: Ball Possession Animation: Simulacra Documentary: Sharks Music Video: Motorin' Experimental: Untouched Jury Award: Cocoon
For more information on Fade playing in the Cinémathèque, please call 773-281-4114. To order advance tickets online, visit the TicketWeb website by clicking here. Showtimes Fri., May 2 at 7 & 9 pm Sat., May 3 at 3, 5, 7 & 9 pm Sun., May 4 at 7 & 9 pm Mon., Tues. & Thurs., May 5, 6 & 8 at 7 & 9 pm CineChat: Filmmaker Anthony Stagliano will be here for a Q&A. Stay tuned for updates at Facets Multimedia. The quote on the DVD cover: "A wonderful independent picture. Exquisite direction is finely complimented by a sharp script and impressive acting" - James Quinton, Open Wide Magazine .... is taken from a review that will appear in issue 20 of the magazine which is due out soon.
The VSM Festival online competition is getting more and more intense with many films closely positioned at the head of the race. Congratulations to Razor Sharp for receiving the highest number of votes to date. I want to thank everyone that visits this site for casting your votes for this film. This means a lot to me having chatted and made friends with Marcus since his film first started making the festival rounds. I have told you all how much I like Razor Sharp and believe it deserves another award. This one I think is special because it is voted on by US, the fans ... if you haven't already done so, PLEASE go on over to the Very Short Movies website and vote now! Voting ends April 12th.
Posted by Sam on Friday, 21 Mar 2008 Back in Sept. 2007 Slice of SciFi's Linda Craddock did an interview with "Tin Man" creators Steven Long Mitchell and Craig Van Sickle. During their conversation with Linda they let it slip that the possibility of seeing their other popular series, "The Pretender," could be resurfacing in a new media format. Since then Pretender fans have been chomping on the bit waiting for more a fitting conclusion to Jared's (Michael T. Weiss) adventures. It's been 6 months and as such Craig felt it was time to update everyone by dropping these comments to Slice of SciFi. "Steve and I are touched by your loyalty and love for 'The Pretender.' Please know that often times things grind slowly in Hollywood and such is the case for our desire to get you all final answers for 'The Pretender' and to give this series that is so dear to us a fitting and rewarding conclusion. When Steve and I talk about a final episode/movie, our intent is genuine -- it just takes time, undoubtedly longer than any of us hope for. Just know we are working to make this a reality and that we so appreciate all of your kind words and patience." CV Source: SliceofScifi.com.
In another email from writer/director Marcus Perry: Hey guys, Again, forgive the mass-ness of this email, but I need all you RRAZOR SHARP fans to give me a few quick minutes of your time. The film is currently competing in the Very Short Movies Film Festival, and the contest is decided by online voting. Very American Idol, I know, but we're in it, and the short needs your help to win. If you could please take a moment to register on the VSM website (because voting doesn't count if you don't) and then vote Razor Sharp as your "Best Drama" choice, it would mean the world to me. Let's show everybody what a strong network this little flick has, and it would be amazing if you could pass this message along to all your friends. It is, after all, a numbers game. Here's the link to the website: http://www.veryshortmovies.com. Thank you all again, for the amazing support! And for anyone who hasn't seen or wants to see Razor Sharp, you can watch it in HD on the VSM website. Thanks! Marcus Perry Writer/Director You must register to vote (and don't worry about spam, the only emails you get will come from their website and they aren't frequent). This means the world to me also, I love this short film and I believe it could be a blockbuster full-length feature! Please go vote!
It's official release date is June 10th. Fade made it's theatrical debut last night at New York's Two Boots Pioneer Theater located at East 3rd Street (between Avenues A and B, but closer to A) New York, New York 10009. Fade will play at the Pioneer for a week and then begin to tour the country. Tickets may be purchased on their website. Showtimes are as follows: Thurs Mar 20 9pm Fri Mar 21 9pm Sat Mar 22 7pm Sun Mar 23 8pm Mon Mar 24 9pm Tues Mar 25 9pm On another note ... Fade's website has been redesigned. Check it Out!.
Check it out everyone!! Michael has been a busy boy lately. There are quite a few new works on his website MichaelTWeiss.com!! I can't decide which one of these I like best .... they're all really good. There's a total of 14 in all that have been added. Here's a sampling: 
In the latest email from Razor Sharp's writer/director Marcus Perry: Hey guys, It's a big weekend for RAZOR SHARP! The crew behind the film will be on hand at the Wizard World Convention Friday through Saturday at The Staples Center in downtown L.A. Stop by our booth on the convention floor to pick up your limited edition RAZOR SHARP comic book, and don't forget to drop in to the film's special screening on Saturday at 1:00pm in room #305. This weekend also marks the opening of online voting for the Very Short Movies film festival, in which RAZOR SHARP is also competing. You can help us take home another festival win by voting and passing the word along to your friends! Here's the link: http://www.vsmcinema.com. As always, thank you all for the wonderful support. Hope to see you at Wizard World! Best, Marcus Perry Writer/Director Online voting opened this morning. You need to register if you haven't already done so at: http://www.vsmcinema.com. Razor Sharp is in the 'Drama' category and you can vote 1 time in each of the categories and you may change your vote at any time up until 3pm PST on April 12.
In an email from Razor Sharp's writer/director Marcus Perry: In commemoration of its Best In Festival win, RAZOR SHARP will have a special screening at The Wizard world Los Angeles convention at the Staples Center this weekend. The convention runs from Friday, March 14 - Sunday, March 16, and the film's screening will take place on Saturday, March 15 at 5:30PM, just before the results of this year's film festival are announced. Don't forget to stop by the film's booth on the convention floor as well to pick up the limited edition #0 issue of the RAZOR SHARP comic book! For more information, visit: www.wizardworld.com.
Help Razor Sharp Win! In an email from Razor Sharp's writer/director Marcus Perry: Hey guys, I'm excited to report that RAZOR SHARP will compete in the 2008 Very Short Movies film festival here in Los Angeles. The film screens on March 20 for anyone who wants to swing by, but this year there's a new feature to the ranking in the festival: Online voting. Help RAZOR SHARP bring home another festival win by voting for the film on the Very Short Movies website, and please pass the word on to your friends! Here's the link: http://www.vsmcinema.com As always, thanks for your amazing support! Best, Marcus Perry Writer/Director Screening of "Razor Sharp" at the VSM Festival 2008: Thu, March 20, 6pm-10pm, Screening of 2007-Q1 Finalists with Q&A, 2x90 min If you can't make festival at Cinespace (6356 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028), you can watch it online here and here. You can also post your reviews! Voting will only be available during the Festival: between March 13 and April 12. Thank you Serge Polakoff, Founder and CEO 323.654.9040 - Fax: 323.654.9042
Help Razor Sharp Win! In an email from Razor Sharp's writer/director Marcus Perry: Hey guys, I'm excited to report that RAZOR SHARP will compete in the 2008 Very Short Movies film festival here in Los Angeles. The film screens on March 20 for anyone who wants to swing by, but this year there's a new feature to the ranking in the festival: Online voting. Help RAZOR SHARP bring home another festival win by voting for the film on the Very Short Movies website, and please pass the word on to your friends! Here's the link: http://www.vsmcinema.com As always, thanks for your amazing support! Best, Marcus Perry Writer/Director Screening of "Razor Sharp" at the VSM Festival 2008: Thu, March 20, 6pm-10pm, Screening of 2007-Q1 Finalists with Q&A, 2x90 min If you can't make festival at Cinespace (6356 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028), you can watch it online here and here. You can also post your reviews! Voting will only be available during the Festival: between March 13 and April 12. Thank you Serge Polakoff, Founder and CEO 323.654.9040 - Fax: 323.654.9042
FADE BEGINS THEATRICAL RUN MARCH 19th FADE opens theatrically on MARCH 19th, 2008 at the Two Boots Pioneer theater in NYC. Fade will play at the Pioneer for a week and then begin to tour the country. Future dates will be released soon. The Pioneer is located on East 3rd Street (between Avenues A and B, but closer to A) New York, New York 10009 You can buy tickets online from their website: www.twoboots.com/pioneer FADE PICKED UP FOR DISTRIBUTION BY CINEMA EPOCH FADE was picked up for distribution in North America by CINEMA EPOCH. They will be releasing us in a limited theatrical run in the spring, and on DVD in the summer. We'll be releasing details often throughout the spring and summer. Cinema Epoch is a Los Angeles-based international sales, production and distribution company formed by distribution veteran Gregory Hatanaka *. With a distribution slate that includes internationally acclaimed arthouse films, contemporary American films and edgy cult & midnight works, Cinema Epoch has been inspired by the great 1970s film distributors World Northal and New World Pictures, who distributed such classic arthouse works as Nicholas Roeg's 'Bad Timing,' 'Fitzcarraldo,' 'Cries and Whispers,' 'Quadrophenia,' and 'The Tin Drum' alongside such great grindhouse flicks such as 'Shogun Assassin,' 'Death Race 2000,' and the kung fu films of the legendary Shaw Brothers Film Studio. www.cinemaepoch.com * Michael starred in Hatanaka's film Until the Night. Fade: Arthur Dichter (David Connolly) thinks he's dying of insomnia, but the reality is much more frightening. He wanders the streets, finding new ways to keep his body moving, even self-mutilation. He's lost the ability to communicate, keeping a journal to express his private thoughts with no intention of sharing it with his wife Anna (Sarah Lassez, The Blackout, Mad Cowgirl). His doctors (Michael T. Weiss, The Pretender; Steven Petrarca, Threat Matrix) wonder if he's suicidal. Anna denies it, knowing he is in a waking nightmare where delusions and reality become more and more indistinguishable. As his disease gives way to despair, loneliness and alienation, he and Anna hang on to their last shred of hope until the bitter end.
What?: 2008 Spotlight Spectacular When?: Monday, May 5, 2008 Where?: Sheraton Boston Hotel and Towers Mark your calendar now for the Huntington's 2008 Spotlight Spectacular! Gala benefit event! This event promises to be the most spectacular yet, as we honor Trustee Carol Deane and her husband Disque with The Wimberly Award (the Huntington's highest honor), for their outstanding support, contributions, and work on behalf of the Huntington. Event Co-Chairs: Trustee Kristine and Davey Scoon Proceeds from this annual benefit help support the Huntington's programs, including its award-winning Youth, Education, and Community Outreach initiatives. Through these dynamic programs, the Huntington engages the next generation of theatre artists and audience members. TICKET PRICES SPONSOR TABLES: _____ ANGELS Table(s) for Ten at $25,000 _____ PRODUCERS Table(s) for Ten at $15,000 _____ DIRECTORS Table(s) for Ten at $10,000 _____ STARS Table(s) for Ten at $7,500 INDIVIDUAL TICKETS: _____ ACTORS Ticket(s) at $1,500 _____ PATRON Ticket(s) at $500 I have found out through the Huntington that Michael will be donating a piece of his artwork for the benefit, but he hasn't confirmed whether or not he will be attending. I hope to know that soon! As before, this time Michael's donation WILL NOT be made available on the online auction site, but at the event only. I will try to get a pic of his donation though if at all possible. The online portion of the auction begins April 11th. Items will be available HERE.
It was in seasons 2 and 3 that Michael appeared in 4 episodes: Ockham's Razor (Season 2) Pandora's Trunk Parts 1&2 (Season 2) Oh Brother, Where Art Thou (Season 3) The first season set is starting off at $41.99 on Amazon.com.
Iowa will screen during the Berlinale Film Festival in Berlin Monday, February 11th at 3pm. Unfortunately, this is an industry-only screening, therefore, is not open to the public. Let's hope that Iowa will be released world-wide very soon! (See News Archive for December 27th, 2007 for more information about its release.) About The Berlinale Film Festival The Berlinale is truly a mega event. At the same time, it is a festival of encounters and discussions. With more than 200,000 tickets sold, the Berlinale is not only a film industry meeting. It also enjoys by far the largest audience of any film festival in the world. For two weeks, art, glamour, parties and business meet at the Berlinale. Up to 400 films are shown every year as part of the Berlinale's public programme, the vast majority of which are world or European premieres. Films of every genre, length and format can be submitted for consideration. The Berlinale is divided into different sections, each with its own unique profile: big international movies in the Competition, independent and art-house productions in Panorama, movies specially for a young audience in the Generation section, the most exciting German cinema productions in Perspektive Deutsches Kino, an in-depth look at films from "distant" countries and experimental forms in the International Forum of New Cinema, as well as an investigation of diverse cinematic possibilities in the Berlinale Shorts. The programme is rounded off by a thematic Retrospective and a Homage, which focuses on the lifework of a great cinema personality. Both of these sections, which are curated by the Berlin Film Museum, aim to place contemporary cinema within a historical context. Source: Berlinale Film Market
I have learned the new agency Michael is with and emailed them a couple of days ago. They sent my email on to Michael's management company who in turn emailed me with the answer to my questions. Therefore, the address already posted on the site is still the only addy for fan mail: Michael T. Weiss c/o Robert Stein Management 345 North Maple Drive Suite 317 Beverly Hills, CA 90210 USA Robert Stein said he would keep me informed of any new news regarding Michael's career. (Thanks Robert!)
All is well. We're screening FADE again in NY on Valentine's Day at the Anthology Film Archive (32 2nd Ave) in the NewFilmmaker's Fest. Very exciting stuff! We're exploring several options for distribution, and should have our decisions made in a couple months, after more fest screenings. I'll try to keep you posted. In the meantime, here's an interview I taped, wherein I talk about the making of FADE and of casting and the process of editing. Hope you enjoy it. Best wishes, Anthony Stagliano
I just received an email from Vision Films (the company that holds the international rights of Iowa): We will be screening it at the Berlin Film Festival. We will email you the details when we get them. With warm regards, L. Romanoff, Managing Director VISION FILMS - 14945 Ventura Blvd. Ste. 306, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403, USA
This is an interview with Anthony Stagliano done by InArtMedia. In this interview, Tony talks about moving his mother out of her home to film Fade, filming in San Diego, about the actors and more. Very interesting! He also added about Michael and his character in a previous email: ... we sent him the script through his manager, and he liked it and was free for the days we needed him. I was very happy to have him work with us. He's a consummate professional and brought a lot of life and style to the role. Best, Tony FADE on MySpace
Most of this nearly hour-long interview with Jeff Schubert of TheStream.TV, ep. #211 from Jan 2, 2008 is about their recent mini-series "Tin Man", but they do mention Michael, "Michael was our first and only choice for Jarod, and we are still happy that TPTB agreed on him," and they confirmed the founding of both an Internet Entertainment Company, and a TV & Internet Entertainment Company, but didn't reveal the names. The websites for both companies are currently in the making.
NewFilmmakers NY -- Valentine's Day 2008 9:30pm Anthology Film Archives 32 2nd Ave Lower East Side 10001 NewFilmmakers Celebrates Valentine's Day Naught & Nice. Yesterday we were naughty, but today we are nice. 9:30PM NEWFILMMAKERS SECOND FEATURE PRESENTATION Anthony Stagliano FADE (2007, 77 Minutes, 16M) SARAH LASSEZ (Gregg Araki's Nowhere, Gregory Hatanaka's Mad Cowgirl and Abel Ferrara's Blackout), DAVID CONNOLLY (13 Conversations about One Thing), MICHAEL T. WEISS (TV's Pretender) and special guests DEVON ODESSA (TV's My So Called Life; Mad Cowgirl) and ANTHONY DRAZAN (director and screenwriter of Hurlyburly) star in this chilling drama that explores what happens if our bodies refuse to shut down -- and the resulting effect on those closest to us. Using the rare genetic disorder fatal familia insomnia as a jumping-off point, writer-director Anthony Stagliano's film examines issues of identity, marriage and death as a couple confronts constant sleeplessness and the dissipation and sorrow that follow.Fade is David Connolly's final film; Mr. Connolly passed away tragically in October of 2006. Fade also features music from improv legends AMM, Art Bears, Ginnungagap, and original music by Cameron Presley (Upsilon Acrux) and Hollis Lee (Midnight Sun). Source: Anthology Film Archives
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