Critic's Choice
Mini-reviews of current exhibits
By Virginia Wageman
Advertiser Art Critic
A Printmaker in Paradise: The Life and Art of Charles W. Bartlett (Honolulu Academy of Arts, through Jan. 6, 532-8700): A master of the Japanese style of ukiyo-e printmaking, Bartlett lived in Honolulu from 1917 until his death 23 years later. He was instrumental in founding the Honolulu Printmakers organization. This important survey of his career includes the prints by which he is best known, as well as paintings and watercolors.
Remains of a Rainbow (Honolulu Academy of Arts, through Dec. 30, 532-8700): Incredible photos of Hawai'i's endangered plants and animals by the acclaimed photographic team of David Liittschwager and Susan Middleton. They spent five years documenting rare species in intimate and dramatic close-ups.
Pay Attention: I Hope You Learned Your Lesson (The Contemporary Museum, through Jan. 6, 526-1322): Contemporary art belonging to the late Laila Twigg-Smith reflect the collector's distinctive taste — quirky and idiosyncratic but always with a discerning eye and always on the cutting edge. Among the artists represented are Jennifer Bartlett, Jonathan Borofsky, Richard Diebenkorn, Jim Dine, Jenny Holzer, Roy Lichtenstein, Elizabeth Murray and William Wegman.
Mini-reviews of current stage productions
By Joseph Rozmiarek
Advertiser theater critic
"Christmas Talk Story": Another in the gentle holiday series by Honolulu Theatre for Youth, where a collection of monologues by local playwrights illustrates a childhood view of Christmas. Vivid images and quirky characters abound. Shows at 2:30, 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday and Dec. 15 at Tenney Theatre, 224 Queen Emma Square. Tickets are $10 general, $7.50 for students in high school or college, $5 for kids 3-12 and seniors; keiki 2 and under are admitted free but must have a ticket. 839-9885.
"Annie": Get a "New Deal For Christmas" with a cast filled with orphans, FDR, a tycoon and a dog. The feel-good musical proves once again that the sun will come out tomorrow and you're never fully dressed without a smile. Diamond Head Theatre does a solid production. Shows at 8 p.m. today, Thursday, Dec. 14 and 21-22; 3 and 8 p.m. Saturday and Dec. 15; and 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 16 and 23 at Diamond Head Theatre. Tickets are $10-$40 (discounts for students, seniors and military). 733-0274.
