Trouble on Broadway
Written by Natalie S
Assistant Directors: Kelsey & Sydney
Music: Brenna R
Costumes: Kelsey
Intro: Hello and welcome to our play, Trouble on Broadway. It is now that I would ask of you to turn off any cell phones, PDAs and other electronics. The exits are here (point), here (point), and occasionally, here (point). It case the world comes to an end and it starts to flood, you have a life jacket beneath your seat. Thank you for your participation and please enjoy the show!
DG: Director Green at your service! Surely you know who I am. I wrote some of the greatest plays in the world! (Pause) Mary Poppins? Hamlet? Romeo and Juliet? What kind of fans are you? (Sob) And I could have been a doctor! (Sigh & talk to self) Its ok, it’s ok. (Sigh)
Anyway, Romeo and Juliet are having a big show tonight, so we better get practi-
(Hears scream off set)
What was that?!
Juliet: Romeo’s DEAD!!!!
Romeo: (rubbing head) I’m NOT dead, Juliet.
DG: What’s this all about, guys?
Juliet: We were practicing the death scene, and I went home for lunch break. When I came back, Romeo was on the floor, might I add…DEAD!
Romeo: I wasn’t dead.
DG: Then please, explain.
Romeo: I was practicing my death scene one last time after Juliet left, and I bumped my head so hard, I went into a mild coma. Must I explain more, Juliet?
Juliet: Oh well, Shakespeare never made sense to me.
DG + Romeo: Who’s he?
Mary: Why, I do believe he was a famous writer of the 15th century.
DG: Mary Poppins? What are you doing here? You’re show’s not ‘til Wednesday night.
Mary: Yes, but remember, you rescheduled. You told me today would work much better. On E-mail? Something must be terribly wrong, or I’ve gotten my dates mixed up. It isn’t April fool’s Day, is it Simba?
(Simba shakes head)
DG: Wait, Simba’s here too? Why is he here?
Mary: Well, he also has a show tonight, or so HE was told. Also on his e-mail. (To audience) Which is hotlionbabe@Iain’tlion.cbs if you’re wondering, girls! What are you thinking, Director Green?
DG: I don’t know, but- Hey, is that Hamlet? Oh no! What’s your reason for being here?
Hamlet: That is the question.
DG: Yes, and you need to answer it.
Hamlet: ‘Tis nobler in mind to suffer.
Mary: Oh, sorry Director. Hamlet has only been speaking his lines for the play ever since opening night.
DG: I don’t have time for this! I’ve got a play to put on, and with Romeo’s injury, I have to get crakin’.
Romeo: Yeah, like my head.
Mary: Are you sure he’s ok?
ALL (except Romeo): Uh…
(END SCENE)
Phantom: (Evil laugh) No one will ever know what hit ‘em. Yes, indeed, it was I, The Phantom of the Opera, who has mixed all of the shows together! Using Director Green’s e-mail, I have changed all of his data around, and everyone in the world has received tickets to tonight’s show, EVERYTHING! Everyone in the whole world has gotten a ticket to one of his many plays- all at 8:00 tonight! Why?, you may be asking. Because I want my show back on Broadway! I got one week in the limelight. ONE WEEK! I want something done about this. Romeo and Juliet, no more if I can help it! All ME! (Evil laugh)
(END SCENE)
DG: (steps outside) Sorry, guys, I just need some air. (Spots Danny) Oh great, another one. Hey, Danny.
Danny: Yo.
DG: What’s your explanation?
Danny: E-mail. What’cha think?
DG: Just asking, I guess. (Pause) Sometimes I wonder why I made you so…so…
Danny: Cool? Awesome? Punk? Perfect?
DG: …Shallow.
Danny: Oh.
(END SCENE)
Romeo: What shall I swear by, my dear Juliet?
Juliet: Swear? Why would you swear? What kind of play is this? I thought this was G rated!
DG: It is, Juliet. He means swear as in ‘to take an oath’. Do you understand?
Juliet: Yeah, as long as there’s no swearing in it.
DG: Let’s move on to another part. What about the scene where Romeo wonders if he can still be with Juliet?
Romeo: Ha, banishment? Be merciful, say “death.”
Juliet: Death! Ha! I said it! (Laugh hysterically)
DG: Ok… Let’s move on to another scene. Juliet, you start.
Juliet: Oh, think’st thou we shall ever meet again?
Romeo: Well, duh! We’re doing the play together! (Mumble) Gosh, some people can be so stupid.
DG: Ok, just one last scene guys, and get it right this time, please?
Juliet: My ears have not yet drunk a hundred words, of thy tongue’s uttering…
Romeo: Are you saying I talk too much?
Juliet: Maybe I am.
Romeo: (to DG) Women, you can’t understand ‘um, and…well…you can’t understand ‘um.
Mary: Simba, I don’t know about you, but I don’t think they’re going to be ready in time.
(Simba shakes head and shrugs/ they both walk off stage)
DG: Why, oh why me?
(END SCENE)
Phantom: My plans are working perfectly. Romeo and Juliet, well, I never had to worry about them. They were bad from the start. But now, I’ve aroused more problems for Director Green that will be too much for him to handle before the big show! (Evil laugh)
(END SCENE)
Juliet: (scream) My dress is missing!
Romeo: Just stay in your room! Don’t even think about coming out here! EWW!
Juliet: Not like that, Romeo! My stage dress is missing! Get the director!
Romeo: Director Green! Director Green! Come quick!
DG: (runs onstage franticly) What? Is there a fire? I’ll call the ambulance! What’s your tragedy?
Romeo: Juliet lost her dress.
DG: Oh, well, what ever you do, don’t come out here!
Juliet: Uggg! Men are just so…so…
Romeo & DG: Smelly? Handsome? Smelly? Funny? Smelly?
Juliet: No, gullible.
(END SCENE)
Danny: (Scream) Director Green! I lost my comb!
DG: This really isn’t something to get so worked up about. We’ll get you another one.
Danny: You don’t understand!
DG: Yeah, I do. It’s ok.
Danny: NO, this one was signed by Elvis! (Cry)
DG: OH NO! WHAT IS THIS WORLD COMING TO?!
(END SCENE)
Mary: Simba has a splinter in his left paw! He can’t go on stage with a splinter!
DG: Are you sure, Simba?
Mary: By golly, he’s sure! (Simba nods head)
DG: Simba, can you make it to the vet with Mary?
Mary: (Simba flinches on “VET”) Of course he can!
(Simba shakes head/ Mary and Simba head for door)
Mary: (Tries door) It’s locked!
DG: Try the other door.
Mary: (Mary and Simba move to other side of stage) It’s locked, too!
DG: Oh, great. Now what? Both doors are locked and I’m stuck inside with maniac characters from plays I wrote with strange minds and creepy sayings. Now what?
Mary: We could have a sing along!
DG: (Everyone except Simba and DG start to sing) NO! STOP IT! NO SING ALONGS! (Pause) Oh, please, PLEASE, help me.
(END SCENE)
Hamlet: …To cross a sea of troubles…
DG: AHHHHH!!!!! (Pushes hamlet off stage)
(END SCENE)
(Phantom enters holding bucket- appears to be putting down glue)
Phantom: (Laughs evil-like/ suddenly realizes audience/ Stops) Oh, um… Well this is awkward. Well, um, I was just, um…Okay, okay. I will share with you my evil, yet unbelievably easy plan! (Evil laugh) I am placing glue, as you can plainly see, on this very floor. Director Green will enter and get stuck and his ‘friends’ (chuckle) will also get stuck! They won’t be able to let any of the guests in- and because of him being stuck, there is no way he could give re-funds! And if the guests don’t get him, the critics will! (Hahahahhaha!)
DG: (Off stage) Wait a second, Simba, I think I heard something.
Phantom: Oh no! I got to run! (Tries to run but is stuck) I’m stuck in the glue!
DG: What the…? Phantom? What…are you doing?
Phantom: I was…um…just, um, well you see I got this e-mail, and um…
(All characters enter)
DG: Did you cause all of this, Phantom? My Phantom of the Opera?
Phantom: Uh…uh…
Danny: Well? Answer the question, you vampire!
Juliet: Romeo may be stupid, but you could pass as 10 of him!
Mary: Oh, so one of Director Green’s LEAST like plays, we finally meet. I would love to make introductions, but my shows on in just a few minutes, and you know… all of the preparing and stuff…Oh we’d never make it on time if…
DG: (Interrupting Mary because phantom is crying) Now, now guys. Can’t you see why The Phantom of the Opera is so sad?
(Mix of ‘no’s and ‘huh’s)
DG: Because he wants to be on stage. He loves to act, but no one will give him a chance because he sold out. He just needs…a big break.
Phantom: (Almost crying) Thank you for finally realizing what I really need, and from now on, I’ll always ask you before I pull of an evil scheme!
(Romeo starts to cry)
DG: Romeo, it wasn’t that sad.
Romeo: Oh, I just can’t take it any more- GROUP HUG!
(Everyone is happy except DG, DG is in middle)
DG: Okay, guys. We’re done. You can let go now. Um…We’re all done. Uh... Come on guys!
Romeo: No!
DG: Oh, great.
(Mary looks at watch then pulls away from hug) Oh, no! We’ll never get the show started in time now!
(Everyone looks sad)
DG: Wait- maybe not!
Danny: What’s the plan- Dog?
(Everyone makes a group huddle just out of Phantom’s reach)
DG: (Pulling away from group) Does everyone agree?
Mary: Most certainly!
Romeo: Of course!
Juliet: Do you really think I would say no to that?
(Simba nods head)
Danny: Yo, do you think that anyone would turn down that…that…
Mary: Plan?
Danny: Yes, but I’m going to use an adjective! That…that…
Romeo: Smelly?
Danny: What is it with you and smelly stuff, Romeo?!
Romeo: Well, I just wanted to point out that you forgot your de-odorant this morning. (to audience) Either that or he just doesn’t use it at all.
DG: So are you clear on the plan, Phantom?
Phantom: No I-
DG: (cutting him off) That’s great! So we’ll see you tonight at 8:00 sharp!
Phantom: Yeah, but- I- No, wait! Guys, I’m stuck to the floor!
Juliet: How’d that happen?
Phantom: Maybe I put glue on the floor…
Juliet: And Maybe I was a famous play written by a famous guy I don’t know from the 15th century where I try to kill myself for this stupid bag of beans over here (Points to Romeo)
Romeo: Hi.
Juliet: But we all can’t be as lucky as you!
(END SCENE)
DG: Kelsey V
Phantom: Brandon C
Juliet: Sydney S
Romeo: Natalie S
Simba: Brenna R
Mary Poppins: Kelsey G
Hamlet: Lauren G
Written by Natalie S
Assistant Directors: Kelsey & Sydney
Music: Brenna R
Costumes: Kelsey
Intro: Hello and welcome to our play, Trouble on Broadway. It is now that I would ask of you to turn off any cell phones, PDAs and other electronics. The exits are here (point), here (point), and occasionally, here (point). It case the world comes to an end and it starts to flood, you have a life jacket beneath your seat. Thank you for your participation and please enjoy the show!
DG: Director Green at your service! Surely you know who I am. I wrote some of the greatest plays in the world! (Pause) Mary Poppins? Hamlet? Romeo and Juliet? What kind of fans are you? (Sob) And I could have been a doctor! (Sigh & talk to self) Its ok, it’s ok. (Sigh)
Anyway, Romeo and Juliet are having a big show tonight, so we better get practi-
(Hears scream off set)
What was that?!
Juliet: Romeo’s DEAD!!!!
Romeo: (rubbing head) I’m NOT dead, Juliet.
DG: What’s this all about, guys?
Juliet: We were practicing the death scene, and I went home for lunch break. When I came back, Romeo was on the floor, might I add…DEAD!
Romeo: I wasn’t dead.
DG: Then please, explain.
Romeo: I was practicing my death scene one last time after Juliet left, and I bumped my head so hard, I went into a mild coma. Must I explain more, Juliet?
Juliet: Oh well, Shakespeare never made sense to me.
DG + Romeo: Who’s he?
Mary: Why, I do believe he was a famous writer of the 15th century.
DG: Mary Poppins? What are you doing here? You’re show’s not ‘til Wednesday night.
Mary: Yes, but remember, you rescheduled. You told me today would work much better. On E-mail? Something must be terribly wrong, or I’ve gotten my dates mixed up. It isn’t April fool’s Day, is it Simba?
(Simba shakes head)
DG: Wait, Simba’s here too? Why is he here?
Mary: Well, he also has a show tonight, or so HE was told. Also on his e-mail. (To audience) Which is hotlionbabe@Iain’tlion.cbs if you’re wondering, girls! What are you thinking, Director Green?
DG: I don’t know, but- Hey, is that Hamlet? Oh no! What’s your reason for being here?
Hamlet: That is the question.
DG: Yes, and you need to answer it.
Hamlet: ‘Tis nobler in mind to suffer.
Mary: Oh, sorry Director. Hamlet has only been speaking his lines for the play ever since opening night.
DG: I don’t have time for this! I’ve got a play to put on, and with Romeo’s injury, I have to get crakin’.
Romeo: Yeah, like my head.
Mary: Are you sure he’s ok?
ALL (except Romeo): Uh…
(END SCENE)
Phantom: (Evil laugh) No one will ever know what hit ‘em. Yes, indeed, it was I, The Phantom of the Opera, who has mixed all of the shows together! Using Director Green’s e-mail, I have changed all of his data around, and everyone in the world has received tickets to tonight’s show, EVERYTHING! Everyone in the whole world has gotten a ticket to one of his many plays- all at 8:00 tonight! Why?, you may be asking. Because I want my show back on Broadway! I got one week in the limelight. ONE WEEK! I want something done about this. Romeo and Juliet, no more if I can help it! All ME! (Evil laugh)
(END SCENE)
DG: (steps outside) Sorry, guys, I just need some air. (Spots Danny) Oh great, another one. Hey, Danny.
Danny: Yo.
DG: What’s your explanation?
Danny: E-mail. What’cha think?
DG: Just asking, I guess. (Pause) Sometimes I wonder why I made you so…so…
Danny: Cool? Awesome? Punk? Perfect?
DG: …Shallow.
Danny: Oh.
(END SCENE)
Romeo: What shall I swear by, my dear Juliet?
Juliet: Swear? Why would you swear? What kind of play is this? I thought this was G rated!
DG: It is, Juliet. He means swear as in ‘to take an oath’. Do you understand?
Juliet: Yeah, as long as there’s no swearing in it.
DG: Let’s move on to another part. What about the scene where Romeo wonders if he can still be with Juliet?
Romeo: Ha, banishment? Be merciful, say “death.”
Juliet: Death! Ha! I said it! (Laugh hysterically)
DG: Ok… Let’s move on to another scene. Juliet, you start.
Juliet: Oh, think’st thou we shall ever meet again?
Romeo: Well, duh! We’re doing the play together! (Mumble) Gosh, some people can be so stupid.
DG: Ok, just one last scene guys, and get it right this time, please?
Juliet: My ears have not yet drunk a hundred words, of thy tongue’s uttering…
Romeo: Are you saying I talk too much?
Juliet: Maybe I am.
Romeo: (to DG) Women, you can’t understand ‘um, and…well…you can’t understand ‘um.
Mary: Simba, I don’t know about you, but I don’t think they’re going to be ready in time.
(Simba shakes head and shrugs/ they both walk off stage)
DG: Why, oh why me?
(END SCENE)
Phantom: My plans are working perfectly. Romeo and Juliet, well, I never had to worry about them. They were bad from the start. But now, I’ve aroused more problems for Director Green that will be too much for him to handle before the big show! (Evil laugh)
(END SCENE)
Juliet: (scream) My dress is missing!
Romeo: Just stay in your room! Don’t even think about coming out here! EWW!
Juliet: Not like that, Romeo! My stage dress is missing! Get the director!
Romeo: Director Green! Director Green! Come quick!
DG: (runs onstage franticly) What? Is there a fire? I’ll call the ambulance! What’s your tragedy?
Romeo: Juliet lost her dress.
DG: Oh, well, what ever you do, don’t come out here!
Juliet: Uggg! Men are just so…so…
Romeo & DG: Smelly? Handsome? Smelly? Funny? Smelly?
Juliet: No, gullible.
(END SCENE)
Danny: (Scream) Director Green! I lost my comb!
DG: This really isn’t something to get so worked up about. We’ll get you another one.
Danny: You don’t understand!
DG: Yeah, I do. It’s ok.
Danny: NO, this one was signed by Elvis! (Cry)
DG: OH NO! WHAT IS THIS WORLD COMING TO?!
(END SCENE)
Mary: Simba has a splinter in his left paw! He can’t go on stage with a splinter!
DG: Are you sure, Simba?
Mary: By golly, he’s sure! (Simba nods head)
DG: Simba, can you make it to the vet with Mary?
Mary: (Simba flinches on “VET”) Of course he can!
(Simba shakes head/ Mary and Simba head for door)
Mary: (Tries door) It’s locked!
DG: Try the other door.
Mary: (Mary and Simba move to other side of stage) It’s locked, too!
DG: Oh, great. Now what? Both doors are locked and I’m stuck inside with maniac characters from plays I wrote with strange minds and creepy sayings. Now what?
Mary: We could have a sing along!
DG: (Everyone except Simba and DG start to sing) NO! STOP IT! NO SING ALONGS! (Pause) Oh, please, PLEASE, help me.
(END SCENE)
Hamlet: …To cross a sea of troubles…
DG: AHHHHH!!!!! (Pushes hamlet off stage)
(END SCENE)
(Phantom enters holding bucket- appears to be putting down glue)
Phantom: (Laughs evil-like/ suddenly realizes audience/ Stops) Oh, um… Well this is awkward. Well, um, I was just, um…Okay, okay. I will share with you my evil, yet unbelievably easy plan! (Evil laugh) I am placing glue, as you can plainly see, on this very floor. Director Green will enter and get stuck and his ‘friends’ (chuckle) will also get stuck! They won’t be able to let any of the guests in- and because of him being stuck, there is no way he could give re-funds! And if the guests don’t get him, the critics will! (Hahahahhaha!)
DG: (Off stage) Wait a second, Simba, I think I heard something.
Phantom: Oh no! I got to run! (Tries to run but is stuck) I’m stuck in the glue!
DG: What the…? Phantom? What…are you doing?
Phantom: I was…um…just, um, well you see I got this e-mail, and um…
(All characters enter)
DG: Did you cause all of this, Phantom? My Phantom of the Opera?
Phantom: Uh…uh…
Danny: Well? Answer the question, you vampire!
Juliet: Romeo may be stupid, but you could pass as 10 of him!
Mary: Oh, so one of Director Green’s LEAST like plays, we finally meet. I would love to make introductions, but my shows on in just a few minutes, and you know… all of the preparing and stuff…Oh we’d never make it on time if…
DG: (Interrupting Mary because phantom is crying) Now, now guys. Can’t you see why The Phantom of the Opera is so sad?
(Mix of ‘no’s and ‘huh’s)
DG: Because he wants to be on stage. He loves to act, but no one will give him a chance because he sold out. He just needs…a big break.
Phantom: (Almost crying) Thank you for finally realizing what I really need, and from now on, I’ll always ask you before I pull of an evil scheme!
(Romeo starts to cry)
DG: Romeo, it wasn’t that sad.
Romeo: Oh, I just can’t take it any more- GROUP HUG!
(Everyone is happy except DG, DG is in middle)
DG: Okay, guys. We’re done. You can let go now. Um…We’re all done. Uh... Come on guys!
Romeo: No!
DG: Oh, great.
(Mary looks at watch then pulls away from hug) Oh, no! We’ll never get the show started in time now!
(Everyone looks sad)
DG: Wait- maybe not!
Danny: What’s the plan- Dog?
(Everyone makes a group huddle just out of Phantom’s reach)
DG: (Pulling away from group) Does everyone agree?
Mary: Most certainly!
Romeo: Of course!
Juliet: Do you really think I would say no to that?
(Simba nods head)
Danny: Yo, do you think that anyone would turn down that…that…
Mary: Plan?
Danny: Yes, but I’m going to use an adjective! That…that…
Romeo: Smelly?
Danny: What is it with you and smelly stuff, Romeo?!
Romeo: Well, I just wanted to point out that you forgot your de-odorant this morning. (to audience) Either that or he just doesn’t use it at all.
DG: So are you clear on the plan, Phantom?
Phantom: No I-
DG: (cutting him off) That’s great! So we’ll see you tonight at 8:00 sharp!
Phantom: Yeah, but- I- No, wait! Guys, I’m stuck to the floor!
Juliet: How’d that happen?
Phantom: Maybe I put glue on the floor…
Juliet: And Maybe I was a famous play written by a famous guy I don’t know from the 15th century where I try to kill myself for this stupid bag of beans over here (Points to Romeo)
Romeo: Hi.
Juliet: But we all can’t be as lucky as you!
(END SCENE)
DG: Kelsey V
Phantom: Brandon C
Juliet: Sydney S
Romeo: Natalie S
Simba: Brenna R
Mary Poppins: Kelsey G
Hamlet: Lauren G
Orange Paper Reading (OPR) is a reading initiative of the Student Ministries of Bell Creek Community Church in Livonia, Michigan. The goal is for students to be personally active in reading the Bible. Specific Scriptures are sent out to students on orange paper. Bell Creek Community Church believes that the Bible is God's Word and that it is vital for students to cultivate the discipline of reading it individually as well as in community.
The Orange Paper Reading Initiative was started on May 13, 2008 by Dan Baughman, youth pastor at Bell Creek Community Church. Baughman had been trying very hard to get his students to read certain portions of scripture. He discovered the color Safety Orange which is used on construction signs to attract people's attention. Baughman thought the same method could work with important passages of scripture. Dan's thought was 'hey, orange stands out, so if I got something important for the students, I should put it on orange paper.'
Baughman began OPR with his first set of letters being sent to the students on May 15, 2008. Baughman mailed the second chapter of the book of Thessalonians in the New Living Translation of the Bible. Baughman says he chose this because "it was easy to read, yet still adhering to the Scriptures".
The OPR has become very popular with the kids at Bell Creek, and Dan is pleased with the success. "I'm very excited it has got kids to interact with God's Word, the Bible; that is the most important thing."
The Orange Paper Reading Initiative was started on May 13, 2008 by Dan Baughman, youth pastor at Bell Creek Community Church. Baughman had been trying very hard to get his students to read certain portions of scripture. He discovered the color Safety Orange which is used on construction signs to attract people's attention. Baughman thought the same method could work with important passages of scripture. Dan's thought was 'hey, orange stands out, so if I got something important for the students, I should put it on orange paper.'
Baughman began OPR with his first set of letters being sent to the students on May 15, 2008. Baughman mailed the second chapter of the book of Thessalonians in the New Living Translation of the Bible. Baughman says he chose this because "it was easy to read, yet still adhering to the Scriptures".
The OPR has become very popular with the kids at Bell Creek, and Dan is pleased with the success. "I'm very excited it has got kids to interact with God's Word, the Bible; that is the most important thing."
Mantis Evar is a music producer and Co-Founder of Indaba Music. Over his 30+ plus years in the music industry he has filled many roles, including product manager, audio consultant, recording engineer, mastering engineer, camera operator, and nightclub manager.
As audio consultant for Sam Ash Music, Mantis has designed and maintained sound systems for many New York City hotspots including The Limelight, and The Tunnel as well as live systems used by Metallica and Guns 'N' Roses.
Blue Note Records
After a few years at Capitol Records working with The Beastie Boys, The Butthole Surfers, Yoko Ono and The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, Mantis transferred to Blue Note Records where his list of credits grew to include Joe Chambers, Ron Carter, Joe Lovano, Pat Martino and Chucho Valdes.
Village Vanguard
During a two-year residence at hallowed jazz shrine the Village Vanguard, Evar recorded jazz greats such as Martial Solal, Greg Osby, Jim Hall, Bill Charlap, Bill Frisell, the Chucho Valdes Quartet and many others.
“Mantis”
In 2002 trumpeter Erik Truffaz released a recording on Blue Note records titled "Mantis" in dedication to Mantis. Truffaz included this quote, written by poet Joel Bastard, in the liner notes. "A man like this music, arms wide open, to embrace the world and take it somewhere else."
Indaba Music
Mantis currently operates the Indaba Music Studio and is in partnership with Indaba Music, an online music collaboration service that allows musicians to post files of their work, listen to other musicians' posts and create sessions where multiple parties can collaborate on a specific project. Associated with professional and independent artists, Indaba Music supports all genres of music and can be found at www.indabamusic.com.
Movie
Producer Lee Gottsegen has expressed interest in creating a film documentary about Mantis’ life.
Additional Information
Five years dedicated service to the United States Marine Corps allowed Mantis to travel the United States, Australia, Singapore, Thailand, Japan, and the Philippines. Mantis banded with the nation and partook in the ousting of President Ferdinand Marcos during the People Power Revolution of 1986.
Album Credits
*Pepper Adams Critics Choice (2005) Mastering Engineer
*Mose Allison The Mose Chronicles Vol.1 (2001) Product Manager
*Mose Allison The Mose Chronicles Vol.2 (2002) Product Manager
*Bryan Anthony Look At Me Now (2001) Producer
*Bryan Anthony Songs For Dreamers (2006) Producer
*Roy Ayers West Coast Vibes (2006) Mastering Engineer
*BJL Technologies Live Comedy (2004) Recording Engineer
*Brian Blade Fellowship (1999) Product Manager
*Brian Blade Perceptual (2000) Product Manager
*Bob Belden Black Dahlia (2000) Product Manager
*Jane Bunnett Alma De Santiago (2001) Product Manager
*Jane Bunnett Cuban Odyssey (2003) Product Manager
*Don Byron Aria's & Lieder (2000) Product Manager
*Don Byron Romance With The Unseen (2000) Product Manager
*Ron Carter Stardust (2002) Product Manager
*Bill Charlap Written in the Stars (2000) Product Manager
*Bill Charlap Stardust (2002) Product Manager
*Bill Charlap Stardust - video (2002) Camera Operator
*Bill Charlap Live At The Village Vanguard (2004) Recording Engineer
*Eddie Condon Tiger Rag And All That Jazz (2005) Mastering Engineer
*DeeStar Fool Of Yourself (2005) Producer
*DeeStar Dillema (2005) Producer
*DeeStar Simple Life (2005) Producer
*Crash Pad Chick Naked (1994) Electric Bass
*Stefano di Battista Round About Roma (2003) Product Manager
*DJ Smash Phonography (2001) Product Manager
*DJ Smash Phonography 2 (2003) Product Manager
*Bob Dorough Too Much Coffee Man (2000) Product Manager
*Dorough/Frishberg Who's on First? (2000) Product Manager
*Eliane Elias Everything I Love (2000) Production Coordination
*Kurt Elling Live In Chicago (2000) Production Coordination
*Don Ellis The Essence (2005) Mastering Engineer
*Duke Ellington 1969 White House Tribute (2002) Production Manager
*Frank Emilio Ancestral Reflections (1999) Project Manager
*Face*T Mixes (2005) Mastering Engineer
*Bill Frisell Live At The Village Vanguard (2003) Asst. Engineer
*Garnets Leaving You Behind (2005) Mixing/Mastering Engineer
*Fun Ghouls Echostatic (1993) Electric Bass
*Jack Grace Live at Lakeside Lounge (1999) Recording Engineer
*Jack Grace Basement Tapes (2000) Recording Engineer
*Jack Grace Live At Rodeo Bar (2002) Recording Engineer
*Benny Green These Are Soulful Days (1999) Perfect Timing
*Hagans/Belden Re-Animation:Live in Montreal (1999) Project Manager
*Edmond Hall La Petite Fleur (2005) Mastering Engineer
*Jim Hall/Geoff Keezer Duet At The Vanguard (2004) Recording Engineer
*Stefon Harris A Cloud Of Red Dust (1998) Product Manager
*Stefon Harris Black Action Figure (1999) Product Manager
*Stefon Harris The Grand Unification Theory (2003) Product Manager
*Barry Harris Vanguard's 69th Birthday Celebration (2004) Recording Engineer
*James Hurt Dark Grooves-Mystical Rhythms (1999) Product Manager
*James Hurt Live At Sweet Basil's - video (1999) Camera Operator
*Todd Herbert Todd Herbert Quartet (1999) Producer
*Todd Herbert Live At Smalls (2003) Mastering Engineer
*Todd Herbert Path To Infinity (2007) Recording Engineer
*JA.DE Competition (2005) Mastering Engineer
*Richard Leo Johnson Language (2000) Product Manager
*Hank Jones Talented Touch/Porgy & Bess (2004) Sequencer
*Rodney Jones J&R Music Festival - video (1999) Camera Operator
*Rodney Jones Soul Manifesto (2001) Product Manager
*Ronny Jordan A Brighter Day (2000) Product Manager
*K-Dean Mixes (2005) Mastering Engineer
*Earl King Come On: The Complete Imperial Recordings (2003) Mastering Engineer
*Harold Land Take Aim (2005) Mastering Engineer
*Milcho Leviev Multiple Personalities (2006) Sequencing
*Little Grey Girlfriend Time Pops Bubbles (2008) Recording Engineer
*Joe Lovano Nonet 52nd Street Themes (2000) Product Manager
*Joe Lovano Viva Caruso (2002) Product Manager
*Joe Lovano On This Day... (2003) Product Manager
*Gary Lucas Live @ Bowery Poetry Club (2006) Mastering Engineer
*Gary Lucas Live @ Bowery Poetry Club DVD (2006) Product Manager
*Mahavishnu Project Live At The Bottom Line (2002) Recording Engineer
*Pat Martino Live At Yoshi's (2001) Product Manager
*Pat Martino Think Tank (2003) Product Manager
*Bill McHenry Live At The Village Vanguard (2004) Recording Engineer
*Medeski Martin and Wood Tonic (2000) Project Manager
*Mulgrew Miller Live At The Village Vanguard (2004) Recording Engineer
*Jason Moran Black Stars (2001) Product Manager
*Jason Moran Modernistic (2002) Product Manager
*Jason Moran The Bandwagon (2003) Product Manager
*Ray Nance Body And Soul (2006) Mastering Engineer
*Lewis Nash Live At The Village Vanguard (2004) Recording Engineer
*Baba Ola Jagun Nigerian Yoruba Drum Orch. (2004) Recording Engineer
*Greg Osby The Invisible Hand (2000) Project Manager
*Greg Osby Symbols Of Light (2001) Product Manager
*Greg Osby Live At The Village Vanguard (2004) Recording Engineer
*Greg Osby Inner Circle (2002) Product Manager
*Greg Osby St. Louis Shoes (2003) Product Manager
*Ominus Screaming To The Nations (1992) Electric Bass
*Passenger Passenger (2002) Electric Bass
*Jack Patton Jack Patton Quintet (2000) Executive Producer
*Jack Patton Sage (2000) Executive Producer
*Jack Patton Don't Go To Strangers (2003) Executive Producer
*Jeremy Pelt Live At The Village Vanguard (2004) Recording Engineer
*Pieces of a Dream Ahead to the Past (1999) Project Manager
*Pieces of a Dream Sensual Embrace (2002) Product Manager
*Lonnie Plaxico Emergence (1999) Product Manager
*Lonnie Plaxico Melange (2001) Product Manager
*Paul Quinichette Like Basie (2006) Mastering Engineer
*Lou Rawls Pilgrim Travelers (2004) Mastering Engineer
*RecKlez Yashie's Revenge II (2005) Mastering Engineer
*The Recovery EPK (2008) Mastering Engineer
*Eric Reed Tribute To Fats Waller (2004) Recording Engineer
*Marcus Roberts Live At The Village Vanguard (2003) Recording Engineer
*Renee Rosnes Life On Earth (2002) Product Manager
*Gonzalo Rubalcaba Inner Voyage (1999) Product Manager
*Gonzalo Rubalcaba Supernova (2001) Product Manager
*St. Germain Tourist (2000) Product Manager
*Mark Shim Turbulent Flow (2000) Product Manager
*Chris Smither Honeysuckle Dog (2004) Mastering Engineer
*Martial Solal Live At The Village Vanguard (2001) Recording Engineer
*Henri Salvador Room With A View (2002) Product Manager
*ScoLoHoFo OH! (2003) Product Manager
*Supergenerous Supergenerous (2000) Product Manager
*Team Jesus Live At NuJazzCity (2000) Electric Bass
*Trio 65 Music Of Billy Strayhorn (2000) Mixing/Mastering Engineer
*Erik Truffaz Revisite (2001) Product Manager
*Erik Truffaz Mantis (2002) Dedication
*Erik Truffaz Next Door (2003) Product Manager
*Mark Turner Quartet Live At The Village Vanguard (2003) Recording Engineer
*Chucho Valdes Live at the Village Vanguard (2000) Product Manager
*Chucho Valdes Solo; Live In New York (2000) Project Manager
*Chucho Valdes Fantasia Cubana (2002) Product Manager
*Chucho Valdes New Conceptions (2003) Product Manager
*Chucho Valdes Village Vanguard: LIVE! (2004) Recording Engineer
*Bebo Valdes El Arte Del Sabor (2001) Product Manager
*Various Artists Pure Cool (2000) Product Manager
*Various Artists Upper Crust Crew (1993) Recording Engineer
*Various Artists Veritas - Primum (2004) Executive Producer
*Various Artists Veritas - Primum Vol. 2 (2005) Mastering Engineer
*Various Artists Indaba - Cool Cuts from the Interweb (2008) Mastering Engineer
*Vinyl Life Future Beat video (2008) Actor
*World Class This Is World Class (2003) Electric Bass
*Johnny Winter Hello Dali (2005) Mixing Engineer
*Cedar Walton Live At The Village Vanguard (2004) Recording Engineer
*Brandon Wright Summer Session (2001) Recording Engineer
*Rick Wurzbacher With Joey DeFrancesco (2001) Electric Bass
*DEFINITIVE SERIES (Verve and Blue Note Records):
*Cannonball Adderley Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
*Chet Baker Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
*Clifford Brown Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
*Nat King Cole Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
*Stan Getz Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
*Joe Henderson Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
*Bud Powell Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
*George Shearing Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
*Jimmy Smith Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
*Art Tatum Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
*McCoy Tyner Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
*Sarah Vaughan Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
*Dinah Washington Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
*Joe Williams Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
As audio consultant for Sam Ash Music, Mantis has designed and maintained sound systems for many New York City hotspots including The Limelight, and The Tunnel as well as live systems used by Metallica and Guns 'N' Roses.
Blue Note Records
After a few years at Capitol Records working with The Beastie Boys, The Butthole Surfers, Yoko Ono and The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, Mantis transferred to Blue Note Records where his list of credits grew to include Joe Chambers, Ron Carter, Joe Lovano, Pat Martino and Chucho Valdes.
Village Vanguard
During a two-year residence at hallowed jazz shrine the Village Vanguard, Evar recorded jazz greats such as Martial Solal, Greg Osby, Jim Hall, Bill Charlap, Bill Frisell, the Chucho Valdes Quartet and many others.
“Mantis”
In 2002 trumpeter Erik Truffaz released a recording on Blue Note records titled "Mantis" in dedication to Mantis. Truffaz included this quote, written by poet Joel Bastard, in the liner notes. "A man like this music, arms wide open, to embrace the world and take it somewhere else."
Indaba Music
Mantis currently operates the Indaba Music Studio and is in partnership with Indaba Music, an online music collaboration service that allows musicians to post files of their work, listen to other musicians' posts and create sessions where multiple parties can collaborate on a specific project. Associated with professional and independent artists, Indaba Music supports all genres of music and can be found at www.indabamusic.com.
Movie
Producer Lee Gottsegen has expressed interest in creating a film documentary about Mantis’ life.
Additional Information
Five years dedicated service to the United States Marine Corps allowed Mantis to travel the United States, Australia, Singapore, Thailand, Japan, and the Philippines. Mantis banded with the nation and partook in the ousting of President Ferdinand Marcos during the People Power Revolution of 1986.
Album Credits
*Pepper Adams Critics Choice (2005) Mastering Engineer
*Mose Allison The Mose Chronicles Vol.1 (2001) Product Manager
*Mose Allison The Mose Chronicles Vol.2 (2002) Product Manager
*Bryan Anthony Look At Me Now (2001) Producer
*Bryan Anthony Songs For Dreamers (2006) Producer
*Roy Ayers West Coast Vibes (2006) Mastering Engineer
*BJL Technologies Live Comedy (2004) Recording Engineer
*Brian Blade Fellowship (1999) Product Manager
*Brian Blade Perceptual (2000) Product Manager
*Bob Belden Black Dahlia (2000) Product Manager
*Jane Bunnett Alma De Santiago (2001) Product Manager
*Jane Bunnett Cuban Odyssey (2003) Product Manager
*Don Byron Aria's & Lieder (2000) Product Manager
*Don Byron Romance With The Unseen (2000) Product Manager
*Ron Carter Stardust (2002) Product Manager
*Bill Charlap Written in the Stars (2000) Product Manager
*Bill Charlap Stardust (2002) Product Manager
*Bill Charlap Stardust - video (2002) Camera Operator
*Bill Charlap Live At The Village Vanguard (2004) Recording Engineer
*Eddie Condon Tiger Rag And All That Jazz (2005) Mastering Engineer
*DeeStar Fool Of Yourself (2005) Producer
*DeeStar Dillema (2005) Producer
*DeeStar Simple Life (2005) Producer
*Crash Pad Chick Naked (1994) Electric Bass
*Stefano di Battista Round About Roma (2003) Product Manager
*DJ Smash Phonography (2001) Product Manager
*DJ Smash Phonography 2 (2003) Product Manager
*Bob Dorough Too Much Coffee Man (2000) Product Manager
*Dorough/Frishberg Who's on First? (2000) Product Manager
*Eliane Elias Everything I Love (2000) Production Coordination
*Kurt Elling Live In Chicago (2000) Production Coordination
*Don Ellis The Essence (2005) Mastering Engineer
*Duke Ellington 1969 White House Tribute (2002) Production Manager
*Frank Emilio Ancestral Reflections (1999) Project Manager
*Face*T Mixes (2005) Mastering Engineer
*Bill Frisell Live At The Village Vanguard (2003) Asst. Engineer
*Garnets Leaving You Behind (2005) Mixing/Mastering Engineer
*Fun Ghouls Echostatic (1993) Electric Bass
*Jack Grace Live at Lakeside Lounge (1999) Recording Engineer
*Jack Grace Basement Tapes (2000) Recording Engineer
*Jack Grace Live At Rodeo Bar (2002) Recording Engineer
*Benny Green These Are Soulful Days (1999) Perfect Timing
*Hagans/Belden Re-Animation:Live in Montreal (1999) Project Manager
*Edmond Hall La Petite Fleur (2005) Mastering Engineer
*Jim Hall/Geoff Keezer Duet At The Vanguard (2004) Recording Engineer
*Stefon Harris A Cloud Of Red Dust (1998) Product Manager
*Stefon Harris Black Action Figure (1999) Product Manager
*Stefon Harris The Grand Unification Theory (2003) Product Manager
*Barry Harris Vanguard's 69th Birthday Celebration (2004) Recording Engineer
*James Hurt Dark Grooves-Mystical Rhythms (1999) Product Manager
*James Hurt Live At Sweet Basil's - video (1999) Camera Operator
*Todd Herbert Todd Herbert Quartet (1999) Producer
*Todd Herbert Live At Smalls (2003) Mastering Engineer
*Todd Herbert Path To Infinity (2007) Recording Engineer
*JA.DE Competition (2005) Mastering Engineer
*Richard Leo Johnson Language (2000) Product Manager
*Hank Jones Talented Touch/Porgy & Bess (2004) Sequencer
*Rodney Jones J&R Music Festival - video (1999) Camera Operator
*Rodney Jones Soul Manifesto (2001) Product Manager
*Ronny Jordan A Brighter Day (2000) Product Manager
*K-Dean Mixes (2005) Mastering Engineer
*Earl King Come On: The Complete Imperial Recordings (2003) Mastering Engineer
*Harold Land Take Aim (2005) Mastering Engineer
*Milcho Leviev Multiple Personalities (2006) Sequencing
*Little Grey Girlfriend Time Pops Bubbles (2008) Recording Engineer
*Joe Lovano Nonet 52nd Street Themes (2000) Product Manager
*Joe Lovano Viva Caruso (2002) Product Manager
*Joe Lovano On This Day... (2003) Product Manager
*Gary Lucas Live @ Bowery Poetry Club (2006) Mastering Engineer
*Gary Lucas Live @ Bowery Poetry Club DVD (2006) Product Manager
*Mahavishnu Project Live At The Bottom Line (2002) Recording Engineer
*Pat Martino Live At Yoshi's (2001) Product Manager
*Pat Martino Think Tank (2003) Product Manager
*Bill McHenry Live At The Village Vanguard (2004) Recording Engineer
*Medeski Martin and Wood Tonic (2000) Project Manager
*Mulgrew Miller Live At The Village Vanguard (2004) Recording Engineer
*Jason Moran Black Stars (2001) Product Manager
*Jason Moran Modernistic (2002) Product Manager
*Jason Moran The Bandwagon (2003) Product Manager
*Ray Nance Body And Soul (2006) Mastering Engineer
*Lewis Nash Live At The Village Vanguard (2004) Recording Engineer
*Baba Ola Jagun Nigerian Yoruba Drum Orch. (2004) Recording Engineer
*Greg Osby The Invisible Hand (2000) Project Manager
*Greg Osby Symbols Of Light (2001) Product Manager
*Greg Osby Live At The Village Vanguard (2004) Recording Engineer
*Greg Osby Inner Circle (2002) Product Manager
*Greg Osby St. Louis Shoes (2003) Product Manager
*Ominus Screaming To The Nations (1992) Electric Bass
*Passenger Passenger (2002) Electric Bass
*Jack Patton Jack Patton Quintet (2000) Executive Producer
*Jack Patton Sage (2000) Executive Producer
*Jack Patton Don't Go To Strangers (2003) Executive Producer
*Jeremy Pelt Live At The Village Vanguard (2004) Recording Engineer
*Pieces of a Dream Ahead to the Past (1999) Project Manager
*Pieces of a Dream Sensual Embrace (2002) Product Manager
*Lonnie Plaxico Emergence (1999) Product Manager
*Lonnie Plaxico Melange (2001) Product Manager
*Paul Quinichette Like Basie (2006) Mastering Engineer
*Lou Rawls Pilgrim Travelers (2004) Mastering Engineer
*RecKlez Yashie's Revenge II (2005) Mastering Engineer
*The Recovery EPK (2008) Mastering Engineer
*Eric Reed Tribute To Fats Waller (2004) Recording Engineer
*Marcus Roberts Live At The Village Vanguard (2003) Recording Engineer
*Renee Rosnes Life On Earth (2002) Product Manager
*Gonzalo Rubalcaba Inner Voyage (1999) Product Manager
*Gonzalo Rubalcaba Supernova (2001) Product Manager
*St. Germain Tourist (2000) Product Manager
*Mark Shim Turbulent Flow (2000) Product Manager
*Chris Smither Honeysuckle Dog (2004) Mastering Engineer
*Martial Solal Live At The Village Vanguard (2001) Recording Engineer
*Henri Salvador Room With A View (2002) Product Manager
*ScoLoHoFo OH! (2003) Product Manager
*Supergenerous Supergenerous (2000) Product Manager
*Team Jesus Live At NuJazzCity (2000) Electric Bass
*Trio 65 Music Of Billy Strayhorn (2000) Mixing/Mastering Engineer
*Erik Truffaz Revisite (2001) Product Manager
*Erik Truffaz Mantis (2002) Dedication
*Erik Truffaz Next Door (2003) Product Manager
*Mark Turner Quartet Live At The Village Vanguard (2003) Recording Engineer
*Chucho Valdes Live at the Village Vanguard (2000) Product Manager
*Chucho Valdes Solo; Live In New York (2000) Project Manager
*Chucho Valdes Fantasia Cubana (2002) Product Manager
*Chucho Valdes New Conceptions (2003) Product Manager
*Chucho Valdes Village Vanguard: LIVE! (2004) Recording Engineer
*Bebo Valdes El Arte Del Sabor (2001) Product Manager
*Various Artists Pure Cool (2000) Product Manager
*Various Artists Upper Crust Crew (1993) Recording Engineer
*Various Artists Veritas - Primum (2004) Executive Producer
*Various Artists Veritas - Primum Vol. 2 (2005) Mastering Engineer
*Various Artists Indaba - Cool Cuts from the Interweb (2008) Mastering Engineer
*Vinyl Life Future Beat video (2008) Actor
*World Class This Is World Class (2003) Electric Bass
*Johnny Winter Hello Dali (2005) Mixing Engineer
*Cedar Walton Live At The Village Vanguard (2004) Recording Engineer
*Brandon Wright Summer Session (2001) Recording Engineer
*Rick Wurzbacher With Joey DeFrancesco (2001) Electric Bass
*DEFINITIVE SERIES (Verve and Blue Note Records):
*Cannonball Adderley Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
*Chet Baker Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
*Clifford Brown Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
*Nat King Cole Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
*Stan Getz Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
*Joe Henderson Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
*Bud Powell Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
*George Shearing Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
*Jimmy Smith Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
*Art Tatum Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
*McCoy Tyner Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
*Sarah Vaughan Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
*Dinah Washington Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
*Joe Williams Definitive Series (2002) Production Supervisor
The first concept raps were rapped verses which told a story, as opposed to being used as a form of a battle rap or bragging. Such verses have been popular in hip hop music since the early days of hip hop culture, and several verses of the 1979 recording by The Sugarhill Gang, "Rapper's Delight" are concept raps.
When a concept rap becomes adopted and popularized by the majority of rappers, it is no longer a concept rap. Telling a story was an original concept rap in the early days of old school hip hop. However, since most rappers have now adopted this motif in their lyrics, it is no longer considered a concept rap when a rapper raps out a story in his or her lyrics. New concepts are constantly emerging in the lyrics of rap. Some are adopted, and other are not.
When a concept rap becomes adopted and popularized by the majority of rappers, it is no longer a concept rap. Telling a story was an original concept rap in the early days of old school hip hop. However, since most rappers have now adopted this motif in their lyrics, it is no longer considered a concept rap when a rapper raps out a story in his or her lyrics. New concepts are constantly emerging in the lyrics of rap. Some are adopted, and other are not.