marisahoop viral from Lisa Leone on Vimeo.
Yesterday afternoon, as you know, I had the great pleasure of talking with Lisa Leone about the uber-fabulous YoungArts program, in which I'll be participating this coming January as a Master Teacher. Lisa is a great artist in her own right—a photographer and cinematographer.
Those of you who love Coney Island and roller skating (and Marisa Tomei) will want to watch this Lisa Leone short film. Those of you who remember hula hooping your way through summer evenings (and who love Marisa Tomei) will want to watch the film above.
Obviously, I just watched them both.
On this very beautiful Philadelphia day (blue-drenched skies and clouds a-wisp in both directions), I share news that I've wanted to share for the past many days. Amy Rennert, my long-time agent, is the one who whispered this in my ear. I have her to thank for bridging me toward that very thing that makes me happiest in life—hanging out with urgent, passionate, striving kids and helping them grow.
So here we go. This coming January, I will be joining the glorious YoungArts program in Miami—"the signature national organization that recognizes and supports America's most talented 15-18 year olds in the visual, literary and performing arts." Do you want to fill this very hour with beautiful things (music, HBO film, photography, stories)? Then go to the
YoungArts website, grab a root beer or a cup of tea, and sit back. Just let it happen.
Since 1981, YoungArts has given young people from across the country the chance to learn from giants such as Edward Albee, Robert Redford, Julian Schnabel, Michael Tilson Thomas, Bobby McFerrin, Frank Gehry, Placido Domingo, Liv Ullman, and Kathleen Turner. It has helped nurture stars such as Viola Davis, Elizabeth Kostova, Allegra Goodman, Nicki Minaj, and Vanessa Williams. It has elevated culture. It has made people dance. It has mattered.
And you, my young friends out there—you still have a
chance to apply. Applications for this could-it-be-any-better-than-this? opportunity can be filed up through October 19, 2012. Those who are selected—in
nine disciplines—are eligible for the week-long immersion in the arts (Miami, early January), for U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts recognition, and for monetary awards.
This year, I will be teaching writing to high school students in a botanical garden. Over the course of that same week,
Marisa Tomei, one of my favorite actresses (did you see her in "The Wrestler?"; don't you just love her whole, authentic self?),
Bill T. Jones, that sensational choreographer and teacher, and
Lourdes Lopez, recently named the artistic director of the Miami City Ballet, will be conducting Master Classes as well. The evenings will be filled with performances. A gala dinner will be held. And I will be there, happy.
My young talented friends, consider applying. Amy Rennert, thank you. And Lisa Leone, the real Lisa Leone (vice president of Artistic Programs), you are one talented photo/movement-goddess. I encourage those reading my blog to visit
The Real Lisa Leone and to discover, among many fine finds, a certain Marisa Tomei hula hooping her way to glory.
Gotta go run and touch the sky.
I love that she is hula hooping with an ice cream cone!
I have long loved Marissa Tomei. She's so rich in life-force. That was fun!!
And the Coney Island video was quite interesting! I hope their dream can be brought to fruition. Thanks for sharing!
LUCKY LUCKY LUCKY YOU - except that Luck has nothing to do with it. :)
Marisa Tomei = so cute.