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Birmingham, AL Sept. 22-27, 2009; BJCC./ Workplay
Topic Started: Jan 28 2009, 09:13 AM (1,619 Views)
mouser
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September 22 -27, 2009


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The BJCC Arena Concert Hall

2100 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N
Birmingham, AL 35203
Phone: (205) 715-6000


TICKETS:

Tickets goes on sale at noon t Friday July 31, 2009 through Ticketmaster.

"GREASE!" SEPT. 22-27 Eight performances at various times, starring Taylor Hicks. Part of series sponsored by Broadway Across America - Birmingham. $20-$55. BJCC Concert Hall, 1 Civic Center Plaza. On sale at noon next Friday through Ticketmaster.




9/20 @2pm & 7pm
9/22 @ 8pm
9/23 @ 8pm
9/24 @ 8pm
9/25 @ 8pm
9/26 @2pm & 8pm
9/27 @2pm


SEATING CAPACITY: 3,000 Concert Hall

SEATING CHART:
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THE BJCC CONCERT HALL:

Posted Imagecourtesy of http://farm4.static.flickr.com/





In the heart of thriving, fun-filled Birmingham is the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex. Here you will find everything you need for whatever your event requires: an array of top-notch facilities, 770 adjoining guest rooms, a helpful event staff and a host of specialized services.

220,000 square feet of exhibit space is just the beginning. One of the most compelling features of the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex is that it has all the right components ..... in one complex. The centrally located, modern facility includes:

220,00 square feet of flexible space in the Exhibition Hall.
100,000 square feet in 74 meeting rooms.
The Medical Forum, a conference facility unlike any other in the country that's equipped with state-of-the-art communications technology.
A 19,000 seat Arena.
A 3,000 seat Concert Hall.
A 1,000 seat Theater.
770 adjoining modern guest rooms at the Sheraton Birmingham Hotel.
Complete in-house catering service.
Alabama Sports Hall of Fame.
On-site covered and valet parking.


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DIRECTIONS:

From Atlanta and Gadsden
Take 22nd Street exit from I-20/59 west (125) At bottom of ramp go straight across 22nd Street. At the next intersection take a right on to Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd North. The Sheraton Birmingham Hotel and Medical Forum are on your right and the Arena, Concert Hall, Exhibition Halls and Meeting Rooms are on your left.

From US Hwy 280
Take Carraway Blvd. exit. At the second light take left on to Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd North. Go four blocks.

From Huntsville, Montgomery or Tuscaloosa
At the downtown interchange of I-20/59 and I-65 take I-20/59 east to Atlanta and Gadsden. Take the 17th Street exit (125A) and turn left on to 8th Avenue (first light). Take left on 19th Street, go under the interstate and the Arena is on the right side of the street.


RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS:

The best restaurants near Bjcc Arena.http://www.urbanspoon.com/ps/45/11397/Birmingham/Sports-Venues/Bjcc-Arena.html

Pete's Famous Hot Dogs
Urban Standard
John's
Safari Cup
Fife's
Roly Poly Sandwiches
Surins Thai Bowl
Yehman Caribbean
Magic City Grille
Restaurant G
http://www.hotels-rates.com/hotels/locations/Birmingham/AL/usa/2445/#trafficLogID=537952363&visited=true&clickingLogId=73340554 Hotels


POINTS OF INTEREST:

Birmingham Botanical Gardens
2612 Lane Park Road
Birmingham, AL 35223
Phone: 205.414.3900


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Birmingham Botanical Gardens is Alabama's largest living museum with more than 10,000 different plants in its living collections. The Gardens' 67.5 acres contains 25+ unique gardens, 30+ works of original outdoor sculpture and miles of serene paths.

The Gardens features the largest public horticulture library in the U.S., conservatories, a wildflower garden, two rose gardens, the Southern Living garden, and Japanese Gardens with a traditionally crafted tea house. Education programs run year round and over 10,000 school children enjoy free science-curriculum based field trips annually.


Birmingham Botanical Gardens is open daily, offering free admission





Birmingham Zoo

2630 Cahaba Road |
Birmingham, AL 35223 |
Phone: 205-879-0409



Posted Imagecourtesy of http://www.birminghamzoo.com/

The sloth is the world's slowest mammal. In fact, they are so slow, that sometimes moss and algae can grow on them!

Sloths are identified by how many claws they have on each front foot (the back foot is pictured above). There are both two-toed and three-toed sloths. Two-toed sloths are slightly bigger than three-toed sloths and have a better survival rate in captivity.

All sloths live way up in the treetops and spend all their time hanging from branches. They even sleep in trees. Up to 20 hours a day! And when they are awake, sloths are usually pretty quiet. The only sound they make is the sound of chomping on leaves and fruits.

You can see the Birmingham Zoo’s two-toed sloth hanging from a treetop in the primate building. Come out and see him settling into his new home.


MEDIA :

1.
"Grease" lacks charisma, but it has the star power of Taylor Hicks
By Alec Harvey -- The Birmingham News
September 22, 2009, 11:50PM
"Grease," the national tour presented by Broadway Across America -- Birmingham
BJCC Concert Hall
Through Sunday

Review gets two out of five stars

There are really only two reasons to take in the national tour of “Grease,” which opened Tuesday night at the BJCC Concert Hall.

The first is Emily Padgett, who sings “Hopelessly Devoted to You” as if she were the only Sandy Dumbrowski the world has ever known.

The second is Taylor Hicks, who kicks things up a notch as Taylor Hicks ...I mean ... Teen Angel, making an entrance that any former American Idol would envy.
Both of those moments, unfortunately, come well after the start of the second act, following nearly 1½ hours of a show that’s just fine. It’s so “just fine,” with no spectacular performances and some pretty pedestrian dance numbers, that it gets kind of boring. It’s not that anyone sticks out like a sore thumb — it’s that no one sticks out at all.

That includes the usually reliable characters of Danny Zuko, who steals Sandy’s heart during a summer romance, and Betty Rizzo, the proverbial bad girl with a heart of gold.

As played by Eric Schneider and Allie Schulz on Tuesday night, they were just two more students at Rydell High, far from the dynamic duo that has ruled the school in so many “Grease” incarnations before this one. Sure, they can sing, but they’re lacking much-needed charisma. Schneider, especially, blends in so much that he could easily be mistaken for a member of the chorus, not the star of the show.

Not so with Hicks, who does his hometown proud with a brief but oh-so-memorable performance as Teen Angel. Like a few songs he sang in “American Idol” and probably didn’t want to, Hicks takes “Beauty School Dropout” and, apologies to Paula, makes it his own. In the process, he gives Frenchy (Kate Morgan Chadwick) the line of the night (we won’t ruin one of the show’s only fresh moments here).
Kathleen Marshall does double duty as director and choreographer, and she’s either not at the top of her game, or the cast is just plain tired after a tour that began nine months ago. The show is sometimes clumsy and awkward, with sets that pale in comparison to others we’ve seen on Birmingham stages.

Once “Grease” ends, Hicks comes out to sing his single, “Seven Mile Road.” It’s a bit jarring, but at that point, something needs to be jarred. Hicks knows how to rev up a crowd, even when they’ve been lulled nearly to sleep before he arrives.

Posted Imagecourtesy of Tamika Moore/Staff
http://blog.al.com/aharvey/2009/09/grease_lacks_charisma_but_it_h.html

2. The Mullet Wrapper Online

Thursday, September 24, 2009

14 Questions with Taylor Hicks
Taylor Hicks is a Birmingham native, but he’s also Pleasure Island’s adopted son. Only three years removed from picking up gigs at Lester’s and the Flora-Bama while trying to keep a working band on the road, Taylor (pictured above with Jon Cook playing The Wharf Amphitheater in 2007 and below in San Francisco earlier this year) has committed to tour with Grease well into 2010. “I’ve been in 45 cities since December,’’ he said days before his Sept. 11 concert in Biloxi.

1. What is one thing that most people do not know about you? “I’ve become a pretty good photographer.’’

2. Considering anyone dead or alive, with whom would you like to have a conversation? “Martin Luther King, Jr.’’

3. Besides parents, what one person(s) has greatly influenced your life? “My grandmother.’’ (Pleasure Island resident Joni Hicks)

4. What is one thing that you would like to change about yourself? “I’d like to be more healthy.’’

5. What is one thing you would not want to change about yourself? “My love for entertaining folks.’’

6. How do you cope with stress? “I run and I listen to my ipod.’’

7. What is your favorite childhood memory? “Watching Ray Charles in person in concert and, I guess, getting that first noon spot in the main room at the Flora-Bama when I was 18.’’

8. What are your biggest pet peeves? “People being impatient.’’

9. Who are your favorite entertainers? “Bobby Darin. That guy was the ultimate entertainer.’’

10. What was your first and your worst job? “My worst job was stripping and waxing floors. My first job was as a lawn service care provider. In other words I cut the freakin’ grass.’’

11. If you had the political pull, what is one issue you would address? “Partisan politics.’’

12. What is the dumbest thing you ever did? “How many days do we have to talk?’’

13. What is the smartest thing you ever did? “Listen to people who were older than me and had more experience and wisdom.’’
14. A perfect day is ... “Hanging out with great friends at the beach and not having a curfew or an interview.’’

15. If you could somehow will any team in any sport, to a championship, who would it be? “The Detroit Lions win the Super Bowl.’’ (Taylor spent a month in Detroit with Grease.)

3.
Taylor Hicks | 9:00 PM
Alabama’s favorite son continues to be in “The Right Place” since becoming the fifth-season winner of American Idol. During the last three years, Taylor Hicks has seen his debut album certified platinum, performed with the likes of Earth, Wind & Fire, The Allman Brothers and Willie Nelson, toured through Asia, penned a brisk-selling Random House memoir, and made his Broadway debut in Grease.

Currently promoting his new album, in stores March 10, 2009, the platinum-selling singer-songwriter will release The Distance with complete control of direction and ownership of his masters on his solely owned and operated, Modern Whomp Records label via Artist To Market (A2M).

Produced by Simon Climie (Eric Clapton, Carlos Santana, Faith Hill), and tapping the talents of guitarist Doyle Bramhall II, bassist Nathan East and drummer Abe Laboriel Jr., The Distance features eleven tracks, including the first single “What’s Right Is Right.” “‘What’s Right Is Right’ is the soulful love song of the album,” says Hicks. “I think its wonderful message about love that people can relate to. The saxophone subtones as they are called, is where you can actually hear the breath from the instrumentalist before he actually plays the next note. Capturing the sound is almost like a music lesson within a Soulful love song. Subtones are a lost art in music today. These musical nuances do not limit themselves only to ‘What’s Right Is Right,’ but are heard throughout the whole album.”

Additional tracks on the record include some co-written by Hicks: “Wedding Day Blues,” notes Hicks “is a great story tune, in the vein of past singer-songwriters. A man attends an ex-lovers wedding and ends up in his own honeymoon.” “Seven Mile Breakdown,” “Woman’s Gotta Have It,” “New Found Freedom,” the country flavored “Nineteen,” which made Hicks “cry the first time I heard it. I wanted to arrange the song to where it fit my style. Such powerful imagery. It is American, Patriotic and Honest.” “I Live on a Battlefield,” “Maybe You Should,” “Once Upon a Lover of Mine,” “Keepin’ It Real,” and the title track, “The Distance.” According to Hicks, “‘The Distance’ has a world message. ‘The Distance’ is a rock song with a great message for all of us as a people. I wanted to try my hand at writing a harder edged song with a universal message, but not leaving my personal influences behind. The message is really important to me. If we all glanced at the world as a whole ‘The Distance’ between us will fade.”

In August 2008 Taylor released a reflective of his pre-Idol years, Early Works (Vanguard Records), which merged his indie albums In Your Time and Under the Radar into one collection. Along with his contribution to the forthcoming Warren Haynes Christmas Jam, recorded live in Ashville, North Carolina, his own DVD, Whomp at the Warfield (release date to be confirmed), offers fans exhilarating live performances by Taylor and his band at the Warfield Theater in San Francisco.

For now, he is excited to spend the next few months on the road promoting his new album and continuing his run as Teen Angel for the national tour of Grease. Beginning summer of 2008 in New York City, Taylor assumed the role of Teen Angel singing “Beauty School Dropout” performing eight shows a week at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre. While also showcasing his harmonica skills, Taylor appreciates the opportunity as “a perfect fit for me to experience Broadway theater,” in a musical much-loved for its memorable songs. The three-month role, which began in June, continues to sell-out shows and is currently on a national tour.

Taylor was eight when his family moved from his native Birmingham to nearby Hoover and his parents divorced. Early hardship quickly led him to the warm and tender mercies of soul music. As a youth he realized he had perfect pitch, and taught himself to play guitar and a blues-wailin’ harmonica. After graduating high school in 1995, he studied business and journalism at Auburn University and shepherded the release of his first independent album, In Your Time.

His personal twist of fate came in New Orleans, at the wedding of an Auburn friend, the night before Hurricane Katrina hit on August 29, 2005. With his flight cancelled, he was given a free airplane voucher. Earlier that summer, he had considered auditioning for AI in Memphis, but the auditions were cancelled as the city became one of hubs of the Katrina relief effort. Through the summer and fall, however, auditions proceeded in eight cities across the country Taylor eventually used his voucher to travel for a Las Vegas holiday, coincidentally American Idol were auditioning in Vegas during his vacation.

By February, as the fifth season got well underway, two dozen semi-finalists had been chosen. From the start, Taylor’s material set him apart. By May 12, “Soul Patrol!” fever was everywhere as Taylor was brought to Birmingham for a weekend celebration, a concert in his honor and a personal meeting with Governor Bob Riley, who officially proclaimed Monday, May 16 as “Taylor Hicks Day.”

It was an emotionally uplifting night – May 24, 2006 – when Taylor won the fifth season of American Idol. 36.4 million viewers tuned in to watch the season finale, the year’s third-largest audience for a televised event after the Super Bowl and the Academy Awards. More than 63 million votes were cast in crowning a gritty, down-home, white R&B singer the new winner. more >>>


SOUL PATROL MEMORIES:

Posted Imagecourtesy of OBG

1. OBG
The scenery changes-and HERE COMES THE CONE--its a regular ice cream cone, double scoop vanilla with chocolate fudge on top-I'm almost jumping out of the chair squeezing Rayvis until his poor eyes were bugging out--Frenchie does her line-not sitting as Kirsten Wyatt did on Broadway but standing-she turns-the cone lights up and THERE HE IS---

It took a second or two for the audience to realize who it is-of course I'm already screaming from the rafters-when the audience sees that its Taylor they erupt into the loudest applause of the night-they remain in their chairs but you can tell that they have finally gotten the "deal"--then we hear that voice-loud and strong and crystal clear--

....As the cone went up, Taylor leaned over the railing asking the audience for MORE-cupped his hand to his ear as he went heavenward-and HE GOT all the noise he wanted-

But when he pulled out that harmonica-again this crowd didn't know he was gonna play it-again the roar-getting louder and bigger each time-like a tidal wave it circulated throughout the place-now I'm about to fly right down from the balcony of course-I'm enjoying seeing this-then I hear--

....it was every bit as fun and beautiful a night as I had imagined-and all those who have recapped his performance were dead on-he's the highlight of the whole second act-taking nothing away from an extremely professional and well-trained cast of folks-and Birmingham welcomed him home tonight-as I had hoped they would-

Posted Imagecourtesy of OBG

2. Laura

This weekend we had a blast going with Dick (our dear friend, mentor and boss:) to see Grease downtown. We started with a dinner at the Barbeque Inn which was delicious! It is an adorable restaurant that has had the same menu since it opened in early 1970's. The decor is the same, the waitresses dress the same...and the food is incredible! I had chicken fried steak that seriously rocked my face off so much I ate almost the entire thing. Delish.

Taylor Hicks played the role of Teen Angel in Grease and he was awesome! His stage presence was great, and his voice fit the song "Beauty School Dropout" to a tee. What a night! Thank you so much Dick for taking us back a few decades. We loved every minute!




3. ageekgirl tweeted

Need caffeine. Ended up seeing Grease last night at the BJCC. What a trip down nostalgia lane. And Taylor Hicks brought down the house! :D

Posted Imagecourtesy of Jazzy


Looks like Rayvis got a Taylor Tat

Posted Imagecourtesy of OBG

4. Suddenly Simple

It was more than two hours long, but it never felt that way at all; I couldn’t believe how quickly it seemed to go by. I was a bit worried about Taylor Hicks’ appearance as well. People go bananas for the guy and although I’m not sure why it was promoted as “starring Taylor Hicks,” (he only had one scene) I was actually impressed by the energy he brought to the show. His glittery suit and harmonica playing in “Beauty School Drop Out” was fun and he did a fantastic job of incorporating just enough of himself into the part. He topped off the entire show by singing his newest single and the crowd couldn’t have been more excited.


Posted Imagecourtesy of Merry

Posted Imagecourtesy of Merry

5. SMNicholson tweets
Grease was awesome and so was Taylor Hicks!

6. The Jones Family
Well, we made it to the show in time and it was FABULOUS!!! Taylor Hicks did a GREAT job!!

7. Barbieflausa
.... saw Grease last night. ( Sun) The crowd was insane...they screamed and cheerd so loud, it made me teary eyed. OPA!

Posted Imagecourtesy of Joy SMB miniconcert

8. Joy
Grease was wonderful. We were dancing in our seats.
The audience went wild when Taylor Hicks came out.
He did a great job and we were so proud that he is from Alabama.



----------------------------------------------------------------------------
SHADOW TOUR AT WORKPLAY SEPTEMBER 25, 2009 9:00 PM CST and SEPTEMBER 26, 2009 9:00 PM CST

September 25: SOLD OUT
September 26: SOLD OUT



Workplay

500 23RD St S
Birmingham, AL 35233
(205) 879-4773


TICKETS: PURCHASE TICKETS NOW or CALL WP BOX OFFICE @ (205)380-4082 Tickets go on sale Friday, June 12 at 10:00 AM

Must be 21 to attend. Cost $25.00

SEATING CAPACITY: 250 and around 400 for stand-only


SEATING CHART: Chairs and tables are available around the periphery of the standing room only "dance" floor. Seating in on the ground floor where the stage is located and on an upper level overlooking the stage and "dance" floor.


THE VENUE:

A testimonial from SKD D : Great music venue, great talent hosted. This is the best place to come see live music. The main venue is non smoking with table service for cocktails etc. The layout is perfect for a more intimate music experience. The acoustics are great.
The bar outside the main theatre is a nice bar, with live side stage type acts.
Most importantly they book very good talent.


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WorkPlay – where creative minds meet for Work and Play.

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Posted Image courtesy of Workplay website
Inspired by the simple formula of work + play, the Hunter Brothers dedicated time, resources and money to create the premiere entertainment complex in the Southeast. After examining countless possibilities of names for the building - the Trout Farm, the Really Creative Factory, Entertainment Is Us, to name a few – they settled on the two concepts right under their nose. WorkPlay was born in Autumn, 2001.

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Featuring the newest and most progressive technologies for both work and play, the facility is home to a live performance theatre, two recording studios, a 5,250 square foot sound stage, a creative office village, and a dynamic bar.Posted Image

Whatever your imagination demands, WorkPlay is your launching pad. It is designed to inspire creative endeavors and support collaboration, WorkPlay is a canvas for all things commercial and entertainment related.

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Combining the market's most dynamic audio equipment, concert hall acoustics, state-of-the-art lighting, and expandable, multi-tiered cabaret seating, WorkPlay Theatre is a performance space unrivaled in the Southeast.

Boasting two separate and acoustically isolated recording studios, with adjacent Iso rooms, WorkPlay Studios offers clients the cutting edge of live music technology,

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including:
• 48 track digital live recording, direct from the WorkPlay Theater
• ProTools posting, editing, and mixing with 5.1 surround
• Emagic Logic MIDI music environment
• Fully wired rooms for live recording and webcasts
• Music and dialogue capabilities for film/video
• Offline video editing

The Cabaret-style theatre seats a comfortable 250; standing room only, as many as 400 have seen artists like Maroon 5, Clint Black, Colin Hay, Tower of Power, Gavin Degraw, The Decemberists and Robert Cray grace the WorkPlay stage. More than just a music venue, WorkPlay has showcased the latest independent films, magic acts, live theatre, poetry slams, comedy improve, etc. If it can be staged - it's been at WorkPlay Theatre. WorkPlay Theatre is also available to rent for private screenings, corporate and private events, presentations, lectures, company retreats, annual meetings - even birthday parties.



Posted ImageTaylor Hicks Band

Posted ImageTaylor playing with LMBO

http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&VideoID=2112233 Video of Taylor at Workplay 2006

DIRECTIONS:


OPENING ACT FRIDAY : BUFFALO BLACK with Mitch Jones

Posted Image buffalo black at the oasis courtesy of mitch jones myspace

Listen to Buffalo Black perform



Mitch Jones with Buffalo Black

Posted Imagecourtesy of chill417


OPENING ACT SATURDAY: BONNIE BISHOP

Posted Imagecourtesy of Lisa Pollard

Bonnie Bishop grew up in Texas far from the honky tonks and hay rides of country music in suburban Houston, the daughter of native Texans who raised her on the soulful melodies of Aretha Franklin and the likes of Motown. She trained to be an opera singer throughout high school, but graduated from college with a degree in sociology and a plan to somehow make a living doing music her own way. After meeting up with her long-time guitar player and friend Rob Albertson, she began making her way across the state playing her original tunes for anyone who would listen and anywhere that she was able to get booked. Now with a couple years experience under her belt, a more finely-tuned focus, and a new CD on the horizon, this young singer is poised to make a huge impact on the hearts of music lovers in Texas and beyond.

Though having just been in the music scene for a short time, already Bonnie has shared bills with many established artists such as Radney Foster, Kevin Fowler, Bruce Robison, and Lyle Lovett, and currently plays numerous well-known venues and festivals including Robert Earl Keen's 4th of July Uprising, Larry Joe Taylor's Annual Festival, the Gypsy Tea Room in Dallas, and Austin's legendary Saxon Pub. While hard work and rich blessing have largely paved the road for her accomplishments thus far, it is the music itself and the dynamics of a very talented and loyal band that have earned Bonnie a place of respect in the music community. Called an "exciting and energetic group to watch" by the Bryan Eagle, Bonnie's band consists of six players, including electric and acoustic guitars, mandolin, violin, and three part harmonies, and ranges in style from bluesy rock to Americana and country. The music reflects the versatility of its lead singer's songwriting and expansive vocal range, which makes it unique to the Texas music scene and appealing to a wide demographic of listeners. In a recent review, long time radio owner Ronnie Whitcher wrote that Bonnie "has one of those voices that seems to go wherever she wants to take it, and she takes it from a sweet whisper to rafter-shaking force at times...." In addition to her full band shows, Bonnie and co-writer Albertson also play acoustically in listening rooms statewide, which is rewarding because it allows them to be more personal with the audience and show off not only the power of Bonnie's voice but the intimacy of it as well.

BONNIE BISHOP Opening for Taylor


Posted Imagecourtesy of Steve Reyes



SETLIST:

FRIDAY

Rockin' Pneumonia and the Boogie Woogie Flu( Jimmy Rivers)
- Hey Pockie Way
I'm Living on a Battlefield
The Deal
The Runaround ( very honky tonk version )
- Funny Farm
- You May be Right ( Billy Joel )
-They're Coming To Take Me Away ( Billy Joel )

Maybe You Should
Don't Let Me Down ( The Beatles)
What's Right is Right
-Tupelo Honey
Once Upon A Lover
Nineteen

Introduced Billy McClellan How about the blues? Blues that you can use!" Billy plays with the band.
Dust My Broom
-Call Me Willie
The Distance Donna Hall backup
Gonna Move
Seven Mile Breakdown ( a roadhouse song)Donna Hall backup

Encore:

My Sweet Lord ( George Harrison )


CAST OF CHARACTERS:

Brian Less - Keyboard
Josh Smith - guitar
Jeff Lopez - Sax
Jason Parker - Bass
Leif Bondarenko - Drums
Jay Smith percussion( bongo etc. )
Donna Hall - vocal backup

Billy Earl McClellan : Surprise Guest

SATURDAY

SETLIST:

Rockin' Pneumonia And The Boogie Woogie Flu
- Hey Pocky Way
The Distance
What's Right Is Right
The Run Around
The Deal
Once Upon A Lover Of Mine
Maybe You Should
Battlefield
Nineteen

Woman's Gotta Have It ( with Ona Watson on vocals )
Seven Mile Breakdown

Encore

New Found Freedom with the UAB Gospel Choir
My Sweet Lord with the UAB Gospel Choir


CAST OF CHARACTERS:

Brian Less - Keyboard
Jeff Lopez - Sax
Josh Smith - Guitar
Jason Parker - Bass
Leif Bondarenko- Drums
Jay Smith - Percussion

Donna Hall - backup vocal


Special guest performers will be joining Taylor on Saturday's show. THE SPECIAL GUESTS WERE THE United Alabama Church Gospel Choir THAT SANG WITH TAYLOR IN HIS ENCORE: NEW FOUND FREEDOM AND ONA WATSON, WHO JAMMED WITH TAYLOR AND THE BAND AND CHARLES BARKLEY WHO DID NOT SING OR DANCE BUT JUST LISTENED.




MEDIA:


1.
First impression: Taylor Hicks at WorkPlay
By Mary Colurso -- The Birmingham News
September 26, 2009, 1:59AM

Over time, it's become clear to me: Taylor Hicks is the most dynamic, interesting and consistently entertaining member of Birmingham's "American Idol" trio.

Perhaps it's unfair to lump Hicks, 32, into a category with Ruben Studdard and Bo Bice, because their music styles are so different -- soul-pop, R&B and Southern rock, respectively.


Taylor Hicks paid a visit to Hoover High School this week and spoke to theater students.(The Birmingham News / Beverly Taylor)But all three are local guys who made their fame on the same TV reality series, and their successes happened within a span of just four years. I can't help but compare and contrast them, and frankly, Hicks always stands out.

When the Gray Haired Guy returns for a concert here, as he did Friday night at the WorkPlay theater, it's always a professional, high-energy show. Hicks works hard as a singer-instrumentalist (guitar and harmonica) and the set never feels amateurish or slapdash.

If anything, Hicks' 11 p.m. performance at WorkPlay proved that he's gained in confidence and stage stature in the years following his 2006 "Idol" win.

Sure, Hicks seemed comfy before -- doing those goofy dances and connecting with the crowd -- but he's completely feeling his powers now, performing songs such as "The Deal," "The Runaround," "The Distance," "Nineteen" and "What's Right Is Right."

His voice sounded pretty darn good, too, powering through some numbers and mellowing out in others.

Is Hicks the most sublime music artist who ever lived? Of course not; he'd be the first to admit it. Hicks simply knows his strengths, downplays his weaknesses and makes the most of what he's got.

Case in point: Hicks is pulling double-duty here, playing late-night sets at WorkPlay Friday and Saturday after appearing in the national tour of "Grease" at the BJCC Concert Hall. Talk about a can-do attitude.

For a full review, look later on al.com or see Sunday's edition of The Birmingham News.

2.

The Birmingham News full Review

Music review: Taylor Hicks leads among Alabama Idol' trio
Sunday, September 27, 2009
MARY COLURSO

Over time, it's become clear: Taylor Hicks is the most dynamic, interesting and consistently entertaining member of Birmingham's "American Idol" trio.

Perhaps it's unfair to lump Hicks, 32, into a category with Ruben Studdard and Bo Bice, because their music styles are so different - soul-pop, R&B and Southern rock, respectively.

But all three are local guys who made their fame on the same TV reality series, and their successes happened within a span of just four years. There's an inevitable urge to compare and contrast them, and frankly, Hicks always stands out.


When the Gray-Haired Guy returns for a concert here, as he did Friday night at the WorkPlay theater, it's always a professional, high-energy show. Hicks works hard as a singer-instrumentalist (guitar and harmonica) and the set never feels amateurish or slapdash.

If anything, Hicks' 11 p.m. performance at WorkPlay proved that he's gained in confidence and stage stature in the years following his 2006 "Idol" win.

Sure, Hicks seemed comfy before - doing those goofy dances and connecting with the crowd - but he's completely feeling his groove now, performing songs such as "The Deal," "The Runaround," "The Distance," "Nineteen," "Seven Mile Breakdown" and "What's Right Is Right." His tenor voice sounded nice and flexible, too, powering through some numbers and mellowing out in others.

Is Hicks the most sublime music artist who ever lived? Of course not; he'd be the first to admit it.

Hicks simply knows his strengths, downplays his weaknesses and makes the most of what he's got.

Case in point: Hicks was pulling double-duty here, playing late-night sets at WorkPlay on Friday and Saturday after appearing in the national tour of "Grease" at the BJCC Concert Hall. Friday's lasted for about two hours, and it's a safe bet that Saturday's was equal to that in length. Talk about a can-do attitude.

As expected, members of the Soul Patrol, Hicks' supremely enthusiastic fan club, came out in force for the sold-out nightclub date. Some of them had traveled for hours to get here, and one group set up lawn chairs outside WorkPlay Friday morning, making sure they'd be the first inside when the theater doors opened.

Hicks, loyal to his roots, featured several Birmingham-area players in his band, such as keyboard player Brian Less, sax man Jeff Lopez and drummer Leif Bondarenko. Guitarist Billy Earl McClelland of Auburn (a demon on the slide) and Mobile singer Donna Hall (formerly of Wet Willie) made guest appearances.

E-mail: mcolurso@bhamnews.com

http://www.al.com/music/birminghamnews/index.ssf?/base/entertainment/1254039328291130.xml&coll=2




SOUL PATROL MEMORIES:


1. raj6:
Thank you for giving your all tonight. The show was incredible then

DUST MY BROOM WITH BILLY MCCLELLAN


Posted Imagecourtesy of Evancol




2. Wonder818:
No words for how fantastic tonight was! You had the audience in the palm of your hand. Nice to see you so frickin happy. :)

Posted ImageBanner on Brian Less' Keyboard courtesy of 4tay


3. CapeLizard:
TaylorRHicks and band Awesome show Thanks so much!!!!!

Posted Image courtesy of Steve Reyes

Taylor Hicks wearing limited edition T shirt during My Sweet Lord


Posted ImageONA WATSON AND TAYLOR courtesy of Beth

4. PFlowerstone:
Thank you for two of the best shows I've ever had the pleasure of seeing. So brilliant and so much fun. Birmingham rocks!

5. CapeLizard
Thanks for another fabulous show! Ona & the choir-very special!



Posted ImageNew Found Freedom with the Choir courtesy of Mandy

6. Dancin

Friday was soulful, bluesy, & funky – just what the Dr. ordered! A perfect show for the traveling fans with fab tagging, cheeky dancing, and gut wrenching.

Saturday was rousing, rocking, & homespun – cool to watch him cater to his hometown fans, friends & family. With the UAB Gospel choir & Ona Watson as guests, and his family, Zippy, local pals, the Grease cast, & Charles Barkeley in the audience, he was all about B’ham, being home, and having fun.

Although, my taste in music runs a little more toward Friday’s setlist, I enjoyed both shows for what they were. Worth every penny I spent to go, for the music & the friends (as old as we are, you never know which time will be the last time, to get together to see him LOL).

And, a shout out to Josh Smith for doing these shows – damn that man can play!


A LIMITED EDITION T-SHIRT available at Workplay.
Posted Imagecourtesy of skeeter

7. Jeanni

I’ve never ever heard Taylor as brilliant as Saturday night at Work Play! The band was fabulous! The surprise guest singer was awesome! The choral singers from UAB (University of Alabama-Birmingham in their green and white robes) fabulous! Taylor is SO very clever about things like that, it was perfection. To the naysayers YES, PERFECTION.:)

The air inside WP was a raging fire. Electric, sparks blazing. When the music started up, the HUGE crowd was ready,


Posted Imagecourtesy of JewelsSoul

8. mammaforpeace

From where I was sitting, I had a good view of his family. They were happy, proud I imagine, and smiled all the way through. You can tell Taylor’s father is a dentist… his teeth are so white, I think I could still see them shining in the dark.
I met some women in a restaurant where I went with my friend whose daughters went to school with Taylor. And last night, at the sidewalk film festival showing of Alabama Moon, I was sitting next to a woman who is Jeff Lopez hair dresser and friend. My friend assured me that this was just a coincidence and that not all of Birmingham is somehow “related” to Taylor:)

9. Jewels Soul

Workplay! Lets just say Taylor was on FIRE! well ..really more then on fire... he was so hot he burned the house down! It was easy to tell he loved being home. This makes me happy too! After visiting Birmingham myself for the first time I can see why he loves it so much...great place.
Taylor danced and danced and danced though out almost the entire Friday night show...I did too.. I couldn't help myself.. Taylors high energy performances are very catchy. Its no wonder there were reports of him being shaky at the Meet and Greet Friday night ..he wore himself out. Saturdays show was also over the top but his guest Billy McClelland on Friday was my favorite out of the two nights. Lets just say "Blues" played well on a slide guitar puts me over the edge.... Blushing
Taylor sang so many great songs both nights and I can honestly say that even though "Somehow" is my favorite of all his songs with "Maybe You Should" being a close second "Whats Right is Right" has worked its way right up there along with "The Deal".
For MYS Taylor announced he was trying to go back and forth between acoustic and electric band performing tonight and he then performed MYU acoustically himself but everyone else was still playing their regular instruments but much softer so as not to overshadow the acoustic guitar.
Saturday, I remember Brian Less running by everyone while waiting in line to go in saying "expect a totally different show tonight" and he looked excited.Yes, it was different too. A few songs the same and still high energy but a different feel to it. Charles Barkley was there and so was some of the cast from Grease to cheer Taylor on. Ona Watson coming out to sing "Women got to have it" was a huge and welcome surprise. No offense to Elliot but I like this duet of Ona and Taylor on this song even better. Near the end the entire band left the stage...not normal. We waited then the entire band came back on and so did the choir.... ladies and gentleman...Taylor was taking us to church! WOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!! ****!
The finale was New found freedom and it was an amazing over the top extended version of the original song... absolutely the climax of the show...Taylor even spread his wings to fly!


Posted Imagecourtesy of 4tay

10. route395bhwn

Taylor Hicks, Billystick Earl McClelland, and Josh Smith snap it upwardly
What a rush it was to informant this live from the side balcony. I holded a perfect position and perfect sound - who could invite more?

Truncheon Earl shared a tale from when Taylor was `` a nestling '' ( likelily around 19 or 20 ): He told Taylor 's daddy enquire him if he believed Taylor holded what it takes to do it therein concern. Nightstick Earl sayed him it was a tough `` bidness '' and it took much of endowment and thrust to do it in the bidness... and he told, `` I 'm regretful to state you this, sir, but Taylor holds what it takes. ''

I 'd should concord with Mr. McClelland - Taylor Hicks holds what it takes.


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