Postcards from a Paper Moon
Old Strathcona Performing Arts Centre (8426 Gateway Blvd.) August 14, 17, 18, 19, 22, 24
More information: bethportman.com
An interview with Beth Portman
Beth Portman & the Good Find laugh. Photo credit: David Hibbeln
Describe your show in five words.
Upbeat, touching, sassy, nostalgic, engaging
Okay, now that we’re intrigued… what’s the longer description?
A thematic concert with a 1920s to 1940s vintage vibe about letters, love and luggage that’s upbeat, sassy and touching.
You say you’ve noticed commonalities between paper postcards and social media – can you tell us a bit about those commonalities?
In the early part of the 20th century postcards were a popular way people stayed connected and shared memories over distances. One in particular was the real photo postcard* which allowed the sender to have a photo taken of them and printed on postcard stock paper. Then they’d write a note on the back and mail it to a friend or family member. It was a fun way to capture and share memories. This is exactly what’s happening with social media nowadays. You take a picture, add some text, and post it. The intent is the same as paper postcards. The only difference is it travels through the internet in a digital form instead of by mail. They’re the modern day postcard.
*A paper moon postcard was a themed real photo postcard that had the subject sit on a large crescent moon in front of a starry background.
Tell us a bit about the sound of Postcards from a Paper Moon. You say it has a vintage sound – can you describe it a bit?
I am a song writer inspired by the music of the 1920s to the 1940s. In an article written by Roger Levesque of the Edmonton Journal, he described my debut album Lovin’ as “Happily nostalgic and never dated.” This show brings together the classic songs that that helped shape my song writing with my own vintage vibe songs.
Anything else you want audiences to know about the show?
I will be joined by two fine musicians, Thom Golub on upright bass and Kevin Smith on guitar who make up my duo The Good Find.
Bonus question: Any names you want to drop who have been involved in your show (Edmonton arts people or otherwise)?
Lark Clark of CKUA Network Radio co-produced my album Lovin’ and is a supporter of my music. She encouraged me to find a performance opportunity that helps attract people to my music. Being a singer songwriter with a theatrical flair the Edmonton Fringe seemed like the perfect arena to share my work. Bridget and Kate Ryan are also great supporters of my music having worked with them in the 2011 Fringe show 1940s Homefront Cabaret, The Swingin’ Sisters Club.
The 33rd Edmonton International Fringe is August 14 – 24. I’ll be previewing shows up until the Fringe starts. Want your show to appear on After the House Lights? Email [email protected].