Week in Review: March 22-29

by Lauren Milka

DT Hartford Staff

Over the past week, much of the news in Hartford has centered on the tragedy in Newtown and the gun protection laws that have followed.  Last Saturday, March 23, downtown Hartford was the epicenter of the Sandy Hook Run for the Families 5K, which had about 15,000 participants from all over the state and throughout the region. Real Hartford, a blog that DT Hartford follows and learns from, posted many pictures and a video from the event, which can be seen here. The course began in front of the Old State House on Main Street, finishing on Trinity Street in Bushnell Park. It was a good day for an even better cause, something that looks like it will be a tribute each year. 

After the 5K, later in the week on Thursday, CT News Junkie posted a story about how the negotiations and vote on gun control legislation are moving fast. The story's author, Hugh McQuaid says, "Legislative leaders from both parties plan to meet in private with rank-and-file lawmakers Monday to discuss negotiated gun control legislation. A vote on a bill is expected as early as Wednesday." For weeks now the general public has heard about the ongoing discussions about gun control laws for the state of Connecticut, and now there may finally be a conclusion -- or at least the beginning of what will hopefully bring positive change to a healing state. Governor Malloy says he is "[hoping lawmakers] take up a bill".

Real Hartford's author Kerri Provost also posted a story on Tuesday, March 26 about a cartoonist's work currently on display at the Broad Street Gallery, located at 1283 Broad Street. The cartoonist, Gerardo Hernandez Nordelo, was one of the "Cuban Five". Explains Provost: "[He] was given two life terms in the United States for 'conspiracy to commit espionage' and other various charges, while gathering information about groups possibly planning terrorism against Cuba." Nordelo's political cartoons are on display at the Broad Street Gallery, and a small version of one of his works can be seen here on Provost's blog. On Thursday, March 28, the gallery held an opening reception for his exhibit entitled "Humor from my Pen". There is another viewing time on Saturday, March 30 from 1:00-5:00 PM that is free and open to the general public. 

Another current event in the local art world came last Friday, March 22, when Trinity College's Widener Gallery announced that its upcoming Studio Arts Annual Exhibition will feature the work of students enrolled in the college's studio arts program. The Hartford Guardian explains that this exhibition "highlights a selection of student artwork from foundation through advanced levels. Included is a selection of media and styles ranging from representational drawing, abstract painting and color prints to documentary photography and mixed media sculpture", clearly showing the diversity of the college's students and its art curriculum's offerings. With that much variety, the exhibit is sure to please those who visit and admire the work. 

On Thursday, April 4 from 4:30-6:30 PM, there will be an opening reception that if free and open to the public, and afterwards the exhibit will run until April 28. The Guardian posts email addresses to use to contact for more information and the hours of operation of the gallery that can be found here. 

Also coming up next Friday, April 5, is the appearance of three members of the 1980 Olympic USA Gold medal winning Hockey Team -- Jack O'Callahan, Dave Silk, and Steve Janaszak -- at the Connecticut Whale's home game against the Springfield Falcons. This game is also in support of "A Miracle for Justina", a foundation to help raise funds for a "14-year-old West Hartford girl who is dealing with a complicated set of health issues", explains a story on one of the Hartford Courant's blogs, Whale Tales, written and modified by Paul Doyle. The three former teammates will sign autographs before the game and during the first intermission on April 5. There is also going to be a silent auction, which is including items such as autographed t-shirts signed by members of the team like their goaltender, Jim Craig, and Mike Eruzione, who was the captain of the 1980 team that scored the winning goal against the Soviet Union's team. The proceeds from the auction will go to the Miracle for Justina foundation, as well as portions of the ticket sales. More information can be found on Doyle's story's page.

Baryshnikov at Hartford Stage

by Shannon DePaul
DTHartford Staff

           HARTFORD, CT- Famous ballet dancer, Mikhail Baryshnikov, is performing at the Hartford Stage this month, where he is featured in “Man in a Case.”
           Running until March 24th*, “Man in a Case” is a story of humor and despair. Two hunters share their stories about love and life’s endless possibilities.

         “Man in a Case” is an adaptation of two stories by Anton Chekhov: “Man in a Case” and “About Love”. The Hartford Stage describes this show as a bridge between present day and the 19^th century setting of the two original Chekhov anti-love stories. This adaptation, by Annie-B Parson incorporates theater, dance, and video, to create a totally new performance.

        Baryshnikov, now 65, is well known for his work in the ballet world. Originally from Russia, he excelled at the Kirov Ballet and the Mariinsky Theater at a young age. After some time with those companies, Baryshnikov made his way to the United States where he became a principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre (ABT). Later, he joined New York City Ballet where he studied with George Balanchine.

         After his ballet career, Baryshnikov began exploring works in various movies and theater. He is mostly known for his roles in “The Turning Point” and “White Nights,” and theater works in which he has taken on some untraditional roles.

         Debra Ryder, faculty member at the Hartt School’s dance division, said, “I am very impressed by his transition into acting and his commitment to experimental works and young artists.”

         This new production peaked Baryshnikov’s interest, because he felt a connection to Chekhov, who is also Russian.

         Elizabeth Williamson, senior dramaturg on the show, said, “Darko Tresnjak, our Artistic director, was very excited when he heard Mikhail Baryshnikov was interested in working on some Chekhov, and also to bring Big Dance theatre to HS.”

          This is not the artist’s first time performing in the area, but it is still fascinating to have him back performing downtown. Baryshnikov had performed several years ago at The Bushnell Center for the Arts, in their theater production of “Forbidden Christmas: or The Doctor and the Patient.”

          Ryder, who has been with the Hartt School since 2008, mentioned the school’s relationship with the Hartford Stage. She said the dancers have worked closely with Tresnjak. “There have been numerous advertising pieces around the Handel Performing Arts Center,” she commented.

          Dancers, actors, and those interested in the performing arts, Baryshnikov, or dance theater at Hartford Stage, may be interested in checking out the show. Baryshnikov is notably one of the most prominent people in the performing arts world.

          Conor M. Hamill, Actor Training major at the Hartt School, said, “I’m looking forward to seeing the show this weekend. There are a lot of Hartt people involved with the Hartford Stage, and it should be a great performance.”

          Jessica Baker, Junior at the University of Hartford, was fascinated when she heard about “Man in a Case.” She said, “I have danced all my life, and was delighted to learn that someone as famous as Baryshnikov is being featured in a Hartford Stage production. I am definitely interested in seeing the show.”

            Baryshnikov has inspired many artists throughout his career, including now, during his retirement from dance. Ryder said, “His efforts, time, and monetary investments made in developing his arts center in NYC have helped numerous emerging young artists.”

          The show is doing quite well so far. Williamson said, “There have been standing O’s most nights.”

          The Hartford Stage’s website provides a “Plan Your Visit” tab which allows travelers interested in the show with places to eat, lodging, parking, a seating chart, and theater hours.

          “Man in a Case” is recommended for those ages 14 and up, and is about one hour and 15 minutes in length without an intermission. Call 860-527-5151 or visit www.hartfordstage.org for more information.

*The show concluded its run at Hartford Stage on March 24. A review for this show can be found here from the Milford-Orange Bulletin. Check out the Hartford Stage's website for upcoming performances.

I went to see the show on March 14. It was a very interesting performance, but I enjoyed it very much. Others in the audience shared their opinions. "That was really weird, I like musicals," said audience member, Sheila. "But the guy in the plaid and red hair had a good voice." On my way out of the theatre, another woman said, "It's two Chekov stories combined into one play... definitely avant garde."

Week in Review: March 9-15, 2013

by Lauren Milka

DTHartford Staff 

           The past week in downtown Hartford has yielded some interesting news stories as we head into warmer and longer days with spring fast approaching. This past weekend, we reported on the upcoming 42nd Annual Saint Patrick's Day Parade downtown, coincidentally the same weekend as the Women's Basketball Big East Tournament, which we discussed earlier this week as well. CTNewsJunkie, a blog about greater Hartford that we follow, posted photos from the parade, which can be seen here: Photos of 42nd Annual Parade

            The event had incredible turnout, as parade goers utilized the parking lots and garages that were made available for the day. On a chilly but sunny day, Connecticut residents and families cheered and enjoyed the sights and sounds of the annual event.

            After the announcement of a new UConn campus in downtown Hartford, there has been much speculation about where the new campus will exactly be in the city. A writer for Cityline, a blog of The Courant, discussed this on Thursday, speculating that the new campus could be in North downtown, "cultivating community along downtown's border with the North End neighborhoods", "near both the Capital Preparatory Magnet School, the Rensselaer at Hartford Graduate Center and Capital Community College". Cityline: New Developments about UConn Campus

This new campus proposal is one of many, as the campus will open sometime in the fall as a substitute for the closing of the West Hartford branch. This area would certainly make a new home for college and graduate students looking to study in an area that would add new shopping and dining opportunities not too far from the campus.

            In an upcoming post on our blog, one of our DTHartford Staff members will report on an upcoming project called CTfastrack, a bus line proposed to go between Hartford and New Britain. Real Hartford's blogger Kerri Provost weighs in on this project, showing how the construction will unfortunately mean some road closings while the project is completed, most notably Flower Street, running parallel to Broad Street between Capitol Avenue and Farmington Avenue. The new transportation route will ultimately benefit those who live and work in downtown Hartford, but the construction to get to those benefits is ruffling the feathers of those who need to commute and find the overall project a bit of a headache. The closing of Flower Street is only to ensure safety, but the delays that are probable in the commutes in the near future will be a sore subject.

            If you follow Rhianna on Twitter, you might have noticed she cancelled her concert in Boston because of bad sore throat. She is scheduled to appear in the XL Center downtown tonight to continue her Diamonds World Tour. Tickets are still available for tonight's show, available through a link on Sound Check, a Hartford Courant blog about upcoming shows in Hartford and Connecticut.

            If Top 40 music is not something you're looking to fill your free time with while you're downtown, Java, a blog on the Courant's website, is promoting the new exhibit at the Mark Twain House and Museum entitled "The Gilded Age of Hartford", which was celebrated the same night as the Twain House's new executive director, Cindy Lovell. The new executive director has many restoration plans in store for the home, and is now lovingly being referred to as "Hartford's new head cheerleader". With such a positive attitude toward an historic landmark in the city, it will be good to keep up with Lovell's initiatives.

Emotions Running High Before Holy Week in Hartford Archdiocese

By Christina Craig
DTHartford Staff

HARTFORD, Conn.  - “It’s just a question of when”, answered Father John Leonard of St. Patrick’s – St. Anthony Church, “we may have a new Pope before Holy week, it’s a very biblical and important time for the church and if we don’t have a Pope… it’s kind of embarrassing”.  While Father John is hopeful that the Cardinals will elect a new Pope before Easter, he explained that the absence of a Pope hasn’t affected Hartford Catholic Churches at a local level.  

“Each Archdiocese will continue running as usual with their respective Archbishops, bishops, monsignors, priests, etc. espousing the word of God and adhering to a theology that is 2000 years old”, said Maria Zone, director of communications at the Archdiocese in Hartford. The only difference in protocol “is there is no system of mourning because he’s not dead, Father Thomas added.  He furthers explains that losing a Pope is not unusual, “Popes die and get elected, this is the system in place”. 

Pope Benedict is the first Pope in almost 600 years to resign.  Father Thomas Gallagher, also from St. Patrick’s – St. Anthony’s Church assumes that, “emotions must be running high in the Vatican.  Our response is ‘we don’t have a Pope right now, we’re almost removed from the situation since we can’t control much of what is happening in Rome”. He said there is a new sense of awkwardness because typically when the church looses a Pope it is because of death, which usually is followed by grief and a mourning period.  In this case Pope Benedict resigned from papacy due to health and age related issues. 

Cardinals from all over the world have traveled to Vatican City in Rome to be part of the conclave, a Roman Catholic assembly of Cardinals, which will elect a new Pope.  This group comprises of 115 cardinals and is expected to meet tomorrow in pursuit of choosing the next Pope. 

Zone mentioned that “during this process the Cardinals, “are under no deadline to select the Pope, but the general consensus is that they will attempt to make a decision before Holy Week, which begins on March 24, so the cardinals can return to their respective homes/parishes in time for Easter”.  During the conclave, the cardinals will pray, meditate, and reflect on who should be the next Holy Father of the Catholic Church Zone says.  Many Catholics send their prayers in which they hope to have a new Pope already elected for Holy Week. 

“Catholics around the world are saddened by the departure of Pope Benedict XVI, even though in choosing to resign he showed humility and bravery,” Zone said. But at the same time, the faithful are excited to see who will lead them in the 21^st century and they anxiously await the announcement. 

“I hope that this Pope will be a little bit more open-hearts, open-doors, open-minds towards people that aren’t yet quit excepted in the catholic church,” said Pam Johnson, a staff member of St. Patrick’s – St. Anthony’s Church.

“I don’t think it directly effects me," said Kathy Broggini a member of the church’s congregation, “but I’m thinking the catholic church is becoming more conservative, and I think that may be the trend with the this new Pope.”  Broggini expressed that over time she has noticed a conservative trend in the catholic Vatican hierarchy, mentioning that Pope Benedict was more conservative than the previous Pope.  As the catholic churches are awaiting the Cardinals vote and to see exactly who will be in order of the catholic faith, Father Thomas doesn’t expect any radical change to take place.  He expects the newly elected Pope to originate from Europe since all previous Popes have been Eurocentric. 

The Women's Big East Basketball Tournament Days Numbered in Hartford

by Amos Santos

DTHartford Staff

The Big East Women's Basketball tournament is taking place in downtown Hartford through Tuesday for the 10th straight, but likely final year, in the Connecticut capital.

The XL Center has played host to the tournament, which began last Friday, and features top women's teams Notre Dame and the University of Connecticut.

"We fully expect this year’s tournament to be the best in its 10 year history in Hartford," said Kristen Sullivan, a spokeswoman for The Greater Hartford Convention & Visitors Bureau.”  However, there may not be an 11th year of hosting a collegiate basketball tournament. After 34 years, the Big East Conference announced Friday that it would disband on July 1. The conference has lost 16 members since 2011 due to conference realignment. Financial considerations forced Big East charter members to leave and join new conferences.  The fate of a new conference for UCONN- a perennial national title contender and thus, always a big draw in women's basketball- remains unsettled as does the location of the new conference's tournaments. Hartford Courant "Finale to UConn's Big East Chapter"

 “Everything is up in the air," Sullivan said, when asked about Hartford hosting future tournaments in 2014 and beyond.  "The GHCVB’s main focus is making sure this year’s event is successful.”

The Greater Hartford Convention & Visitors Bureau (Official website) is the agency that was hard at work to offer fans special rates and discounts on hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions. The city began its preparations for this past weekend’s activities well over two weeks ago. Flyers and various types of ads were posted all throughout downtown.

In addition to the Big East Tournament, the annual Greater Hartford St. Patrick’s Day Parade also took place downtown over the past weekend.

Downtown Hartford was mobbed Saturday with several thousand people -- essentially, a block party was taking place, with the XL Center at the hub.

“The fact that the UCONN women’s  basketball team is playing next door, in addition to the St. Patrick’s Day parade taking place is without a doubt bringing in more money to my bar this weekend,” said Sean Davidson, an assistant manager at Pig’s Eye Pub.

The XL Center and Hartford Convention Center were offering parking at a reasonable fee for people who were downtown on Saturday. The option provided by the XL Center was very convenient for tourists and fans of  the schools that participated in the Big East Tournament.

Michael & Sandra Westbrook, a couple from Patterson, N.J., were in Hartford on Saturday for the tournament. Their daughter, Jamie, is a cheerleader at Seton Hall University.

“Honestly we had no intention of exploring downtown after Seton Hall played, but there was so much activity going out we had to go out,” said Michael Westbrook outside of City Steam, a popular bar/restaurant across the street from the XL Center.   

The success of last year’s tournament, in addition to the St. Patrick’s parade certainly had a big effect on surrounding businesses seeing an economic boom this past weekend, especially Saturday. Public parking lots were full, bars and restaurants were packed, hotels were booked.

People downtown Saturday enjoyed the revelry and did not express concern about losing a women's basketball tournament-- yet.

 It remains to be seen what the future holds for the conference soon to be formally known as The Big East, but Hartford will reportedly be considered as a contender to host a rotating tournament. 

Stage Set for 42nd Annual Greater Hartford St. Patrick's Day Parade

By Lauren Milka

DTHartford Staff

Fife and drums, pipes, and Irish Step Dancers galore!

Despite the inclement winter weather that greater Hartford and the state of Connecticut is set to endure on Thursday and Friday, the 42^nd Annual Greater Hartford Saint Patrick’s Day Parade is still on for Saturday, March 9. The spirits of those Irish Greater Hartford residents (and those who are Irish for a day!) will be shining right along with the sun as the weekend comes in with milder weather. 

This year’s Grand Marshal of the parade is James Mulcahy, a resident of Manchester and member of the Irish community of Connecticut. Along with the selection of the Grand Marshal is the Person of the Year, who is Richard Graziano, publisher of the Hartford Courant and vice president and general manager of FOX CT. The Central Connecticut Celtic Cultural Committee, who sponsors the parade and chooses these two parade honorees each year, selected both men.

To honor those lost in the unforgettable tragedy that struck the town of Newtown, the parade will honor the victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shootings. Marchers in the parade will be wearing green and white ribbons – the school’s colors – to show their support.  Police, first responders, fire officials, politicians, and families from Newtown will be leading the parade of the thousands of participants from Hartford, Rocky Hill, Manchester, West Hartford, South Windsor, Glastonbury, East Hartford, Wethersfield, and Newington.

This event is likely to draw more than 50,000 spectators, and the city of Hartford recommends that those who wish to attend the parade be aware of its street closings along the parade route prior to the beginning of the parade at 11:00 AM.

The parade’s route is set to begin at the State Capitol and concluding at Memorial Arch on Trinity Street, which was erected in the late nineteenth century to honor those residents of Connecticut who fought and died for the Union in the American Civil War.

Parking is available in lots and garages near the XL Center and Convention Center, so don your green, white, and orange, talk with an Irish brogue, and enjoy the festivities at the 42nd Annual Greater Hartford Saint Patrick’s Day Parade!

For more information, visit the official website of the parade at www.irishamericanparade.com.