The Kimbell

Over the break I went to Fort Worth, and had the chance the go over to the Kimbell Art Museum to see the current exhibit Picturing the Bible, The Earliest Christian Art. The exhibit shows how early Christians depicted their faith and beliefs. The tour was fascinating, because when I think of biblical art immediately what comes to my mind is what I'm used to- icons, being that I'm Greek Orthodox. But there were amazing pieces of art, that made you think how at that time were these people able to create such works and the details. Something I had never seen before were these glass roundels, that would've been apart of a bowl or something, that were etched with biblical scenes in gold. That was really interesting to see because it was something completely new to me. I had seen sarcophagi in my art history textbook, but to see them close and personal gave them a whole new dimension. There were a lot of images of the icthus on rings, or medallions, showing the religious imagery. There was also a manuscript of the bible which was incredible, because the years put into these works is not only impressive but shows the dedication of a man's life to the work. Throughout the exhibit there is a sense of pride in these works, no one thing is done half-way, and the best materials are used (gems, gold, silver, etc.) Something interesting I found was that although I know water is an important symbolism in Christian literature and imagery, it was interesting to note the importance of Jonah to the early Christians. He's everywhere on the artwork! But today Jonah really isnt that central or emphasized, so I was surprised at how he was continuously represented. The best part about the exhibit, for me, was being able to use my knowledge of Latin to read what was written on these works. I guess all the studying paid off. There was the cross given by Justin to another emperor (I cant really remember) but it was given to show allegiance, and support. The exhibit begins with modest, but still precious materials, works and evolves into highly elaborate, and almost imposing artistry. Just as Christianity itself began as an inferior and persecuted faith, and became (rather quickly) into a powerful and wealthy institution, this change is experienced throughout the exhibit.

Happiness

This weekend, if you didnt see You're A Good Man Charlie Brown (put on by MLP) then shame on you! The last time I saw this play was when my brother's eighth grade made this their final play. It was great then, and it was even better this Saturday. Who knew such a simple, happy feel good show, wouldnt be cheesy (as it easily could have been), but rather, saved by its excellent acting, proved to be a great comedy. The play was excellently casted, there were some new faces on stage but they proved to hold their own with the veterans. The stage didnt have too many, props except for the trees that were standard throughout the play, benches, and then the couch (it was pretty great, this huge couch to give the young adult characters a kid resemblence). The best characters,all though all were pretty great, were Charlie Brown and Lucy, played by Nate Wasson and Rachel Havird. The energy just really came out with them on stage, and they were really into their roles. Perhaps a great scene that showed this, was when Charlie Brown is trying to fly his kite. What could have been a dull scene was great, not only the singing but also the acting was well done...Wasson might have cared less if his fake kite really flew, but he made it seem like the world to Charlie. Lucy's brusque mannerisms are well done, and her bossy attitude is acted out great. Snoopy, Linus, Schroeder, and the rest of the gang all act their roles out great and with an energy that really engages the audience. Throughout the play, you forget that these ideas are just kid's "philosophies." The tension between Lucy and Schroeder is awesome, their banter between Beethoven and dishware had the house roaring with laughter. And then there was Linus' tap dance with his blanket...priceless. Charlie Brown was definitely worth the time this weekend, even with the huge homework load, everyone needs a good laugh now and then. The singing was also another thing that made the show apart from the acting. I'm not sure if all those actors were CHOR kids, but they definitely sang like it. The intensity and effort that the actors put into this production certainly payed off, and they deserve the rave reviews the receive. MLP has once again put on an excellent production, proving that small productions are worth the time and chance.

Penelope

This past Friday I went and saw the film Penelope, directed by Mark Palansky and with Academy Award winner Reese Witherspoon. The film is excellently casted, with Penelope played by Christina Ricci, Catherine O'Hara as her mother, and James McAvoy as Max, the young man who loved her for who she truly was despite her appearance. One might go in expecting a simple, quick chick flick however the movie has a great morale at the end teaching that looks are not everything to a person and how shallow society has become. It also touches on the obsession of celebrities, and the quick move on after the hype. The film begins with an introduction of the beginning of Penelope's life, transitioning into present day. She is continually set up by a match maker on a quest to break the Wilhern curse. Which states that she will never be rid of her pig nose until she finds "one of her own." Penelope's mother takes this to mean she must fall in love with a blueblood to receive her real nose. This sets up a horrible meeting with a blueblood, who is repulsed by her but proposes because of the media following her. After unsuccessful suitors, terrified by her appearence, Max shows up and likes her for who she is. But he isnt a blueblood, quickly realizes that he can't break her curse and vanishes. Penelope, fed up with hiding, runs away and finds herself in the city. The characters throughout the entire film act superbly, and you can't help but cheer on Penelope on her quest to find herself, and later on Max to find out he loved her all along. With great acting, and great costumes, Penelope is a joy to watch. Another great thing is the way the movie was filmed. While everyone is very modern, the main characters (Penelope and Max) wear a very vintage inspired wadrobe, and the buildings and architecture are reminiscent of the late 1800s giving the film a more magical, fairytale edge. Penelope is a wonderful film showing one person's journey who breaks her curse by finding out she likes herself the way she is. Its inspirational, and you cant help but give Penelope a two thumbs up!