Last weekend I rediscovered the joy of being around Douglas Ballentine as I attended “An Evening With Irving Berlin,” at Playhouse 2000. I first met Doug in Ft. Worth as I took a group of 60 high school students to the avante garde Hip Pocket Theatre. Then I head him play piano at the HOP on Berry Street. His amazing talent and creativity also enhanced the Hill Country Youth Ranch as he moved into this area. Playhouse 2000 is a gem in this community, thanks to both Susan and Douglas Balentine.

   Now for another gem:  Austin Owen and Laran Snyder singing Irving Berlin songs. Running through October 4, this evening of music is a creative expression both of joy and nostalgia. I kept thinking of my parents and the love they have for each other, for some reason. I also remembered the productions I’d seen at Casa Manana in Ft. Worth as a teenager. My modern jazz teachers, Holloman and Howard, also danced in this theatre of the round. That must be where I first heard the music of Irving Berlin. Or maybe it was just during the Christmas season as “White Christmas” became the all-time best selling record.

  Ann Galland and Gradon Vaught sat on high chairs at the side of the empty stage, reading from a script that contained “the facts” of the Berlin’s life. Austin and Laran moved across the stage, both together and apart, as they interpreted the music. And then there was Douglas at the piano. Many of us noticed that he never turned a page of sheet music. We noticed his subtle part in the entire production, as the expression on his face gave new meaning to these songs. I was thrilled to be sitting with Austin’s family, so I had the chance to experience their pride in him as well.

  Laran, wearing two gorgeous dresses throughout the evening, interpreted both the serious and comedy with grace. Austin engaged in full body expression as he tapped his way through one number, and kissed his way through another. An evening of sentiment, laughter and joy.

  Another opportunity for an evening of special music arrives on October 11 when Darden Smith is featured at Camp Waldemar for the Rio Encantado series. Shawn Colvin follows on Saturday. The public has the opportunity to buy tickets for dinner and the performance (Everyone knows the reputation for great food at Camp Waldemar) or just for the performance. Call Teak for reservations at 238-4821. A few spots are still open.

  The Cabaret is fired up for the Fall, Charlie Robison is billed October 4, and Dale Watson brings some real country music to the area on October 12. Billy Joe Shaver and Kinky Friedman are on the bill for October 18 with Stephanie Urbina Jones opening. Limited seating. Call 830-796-8166 for reservations.

  Roger Moon brought more “real” country to the area when he left Luckenbach to play the Double D in Comfort. Jim, the music producer, announced that the jam is moving to Sunday nights, with featured performers on Friday and Saturday. Last Sunday we sat out under a full moon listening to some “pure” country. Each musician had his moment to shine. B.B. Morse takes over the standup bass in ways you’ve never seen before. Johnny Krause added those high mandolin leads while Lonesome Doug Davis played jazz leads on guitar. Action Jackson smoothly fiddled his way through and Roger sang some classic country as well as his own originals. I’m glad I made the drive on a Sunday night! We even heard Kimbo sit in for some guest fiddling. If you like “Bubbles in my Beer” (a Cindy Walker tune), “Folsom Prison Blues,” “Milk Cow Blues,” then head out to hear Roger. We heard “Muleskinner Blues” as our last song of the evening. I’ve never seen a bass lead like the one B.B gave us. Free Leonard and down the road.

Kathleen

Email Kathleen:  kat@maverickbbs.com

Visit the THMF website:  www.texasheritagemusic.org

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