Thursday, 26 August 2010
Behind-the-Scenes Photo of Barbra in Little Fockers.
With Colin Baiocchi who plays 'Little Focker' Henry Focker in the movie, due in theaters this Christmas.
Pre-order My Passion For Design.
Barbra's new book will be released in November. Here's a few sneak peeks at the book.
A lavishly illustrated personal tour of the great star's homes and collections.
For nearly five decades Barbra Streisand has been one of the singular figures in American entertainment. From the cabaret to the Broadway stage, from television and film stardom to her acclaimed work as a director, from the recording studio to the concert hall, she has demonstrated that the extraordinary voice that launched her career was only one of her remarkable gifts.
Now, in her first book, Barbra Streisand reveals another aspect of her talent: the taste and style that have inspired her beautiful homes and collections.
My Passion for Design focuses on the architecture and construction of her newest homes, the dream refuge that she has longed for since the days when she shared a small Brooklyn apartment with her mother, brother, and grandparents.
A culmination and reflection of Streisand's love of American architecture and design between the eighteenth and twentieth centuries, the book contains many of her own photographs of the rooms she has decorated, the furniture and art she has collected, and the ravishing gardens she has planted on her land on the California coast.
In addition to glimpses of her homes, Barbra shares memories of her childhood, the development of her sense of style, and what collecting has come to mean to her. My Passion for Design is a rare and intimate private tour into the world of one of our most beloved stars. It will be welcomed by her many fans and all lovers of the great achievements of American design.
Click here to Pre-order this book now.
A lavishly illustrated personal tour of the great star's homes and collections.
For nearly five decades Barbra Streisand has been one of the singular figures in American entertainment. From the cabaret to the Broadway stage, from television and film stardom to her acclaimed work as a director, from the recording studio to the concert hall, she has demonstrated that the extraordinary voice that launched her career was only one of her remarkable gifts.
Now, in her first book, Barbra Streisand reveals another aspect of her talent: the taste and style that have inspired her beautiful homes and collections.
My Passion for Design focuses on the architecture and construction of her newest homes, the dream refuge that she has longed for since the days when she shared a small Brooklyn apartment with her mother, brother, and grandparents.
A culmination and reflection of Streisand's love of American architecture and design between the eighteenth and twentieth centuries, the book contains many of her own photographs of the rooms she has decorated, the furniture and art she has collected, and the ravishing gardens she has planted on her land on the California coast.
In addition to glimpses of her homes, Barbra shares memories of her childhood, the development of her sense of style, and what collecting has come to mean to her. My Passion for Design is a rare and intimate private tour into the world of one of our most beloved stars. It will be welcomed by her many fans and all lovers of the great achievements of American design.
Click here to Pre-order this book now.
Barbra Attends Barbara Boxer Fundraiser.
Barbra attended a Barbara Boxer fundraiser on Thursday afternoon at the Bel Air home of “Bold and the Beautiful” executive producer Bradley Bell and his wife, Colleen.
In addition to Barbra, the “Women Making History” luncheon honored Boxer’s partner in the Senate, Dianne Feinstein, and Latino civil rights activist Antonia Hernandez.
(Source: Politico.com)
In addition to Barbra, the “Women Making History” luncheon honored Boxer’s partner in the Senate, Dianne Feinstein, and Latino civil rights activist Antonia Hernandez.
(Source: Politico.com)
Thursday, 19 August 2010
Friday, 6 August 2010
Barbra Attends Cedars-Sinai Benefit
Bloomingdale's opened in Santa Monica with a chic soiree Wednesday night to benefit the Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute’s Women’s Heart Center. It was the first glimpse many people had gotten of the store -- one of the anchor retailers of the revamped Santa Monica Place -- which is scheduled to reopen this weekend after a two-year closure.
The event drew an eclectic crowd -- including Barbra Streisand and James Brolin -- and it’s not often you can say you've seen Rock & Republic co-founder Michael Ball out of one eye, and Diane Keaton out of the other. Dinner kicked off with remarks from Bloomingdale's Chairman Michael Gould and Streisand who served as the honorary event chair.
“They are going to have coffee yogurt here, my fave,” Streisand said, referring to the Forty Carrots Cafe on the store’s second level, before moving on to the more serious topic at hand. “Five hundred thousand women in the U.S. die every year of heart disease. That’s more than die from all cancers combined,” she said, making a pitch for the Women’s Heart Center. “If properly funded, this center can save lives of women around the world. Heart disease is not just a man’s disease anymore.”
She introduced Dr. Noel Bairey Merz, the Center’s cirector, who spoke of the groundbreaking research being done at her institution and others, spotlighting University of Minnesota researcher Dr. Doris Taylor, who found that female stem cells alone, not male, can grow a human heart in a petri dish.
"The biggest challenge with growing a heart is that the cells need to be given some direction," she said. "And male stem cells tend to get lost." After a ripple of laughter moved through the crowd, Merz followed up with an important point.
“So in all likelihood gentlemen, when you need a new organ, or a stem cell, it will come from a woman,” she said.
The event drew an eclectic crowd -- including Barbra Streisand and James Brolin -- and it’s not often you can say you've seen Rock & Republic co-founder Michael Ball out of one eye, and Diane Keaton out of the other. Dinner kicked off with remarks from Bloomingdale's Chairman Michael Gould and Streisand who served as the honorary event chair.
“They are going to have coffee yogurt here, my fave,” Streisand said, referring to the Forty Carrots Cafe on the store’s second level, before moving on to the more serious topic at hand. “Five hundred thousand women in the U.S. die every year of heart disease. That’s more than die from all cancers combined,” she said, making a pitch for the Women’s Heart Center. “If properly funded, this center can save lives of women around the world. Heart disease is not just a man’s disease anymore.”
She introduced Dr. Noel Bairey Merz, the Center’s cirector, who spoke of the groundbreaking research being done at her institution and others, spotlighting University of Minnesota researcher Dr. Doris Taylor, who found that female stem cells alone, not male, can grow a human heart in a petri dish.
"The biggest challenge with growing a heart is that the cells need to be given some direction," she said. "And male stem cells tend to get lost." After a ripple of laughter moved through the crowd, Merz followed up with an important point.
“So in all likelihood gentlemen, when you need a new organ, or a stem cell, it will come from a woman,” she said.
Thursday, 5 August 2010
Barbra Comments on Jennifer Aniston Photo Shoot.
Jennifer Aniston paid homage to Barbra in a photo shoot that is featured in this month's Harper's Bazaar magazine -- and here's what Barbra said about the photos:
I was very flattered that Jennifer Aniston chose to interpret my style with the photos in Harper's Bazaar. She's a delightful person, and I think she did a wonderful job. If only she had a bump on her nose.
Click here for more on the article: http://www.harpersbazaar.com/aniston
I was very flattered that Jennifer Aniston chose to interpret my style with the photos in Harper's Bazaar. She's a delightful person, and I think she did a wonderful job. If only she had a bump on her nose.
Click here for more on the article: http://www.harpersbazaar.com/aniston
Wednesday, 4 August 2010
Eight-Time GRAMMY® Winner Barbra Streisand to Be Honored as 2011 MusiCares® Person of the Year
Barbra Streisand, actress/singer/director/writer/composer/producer/designer/author/activist and eight-time GRAMMY® winner (as well as GRAMMY Legend and Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement Award recipient), will be honored as the 2011 MusiCares® Person of the Year at its 21st annual benefit gala, it was announced today by Neil Portnow, President/CEO of the MusiCares Foundation® and The Recording Academy®, and Paul Caine, Chair of the MusiCares Foundation Board. Proceeds from the dinner and concert honoring Streisand — to be held in Los Angeles during GRAMMY Week on Friday, Feb. 11, 2011, two days prior to the 53rd Annual GRAMMY Awards — will provide essential support for MusiCares, which ensures that music people have a place to turn in times of financial, medical and personal need.
The legendary artist is being honored as the MusiCares Person of the Year in recognition of her renowned creative accomplishments as well as her philanthropic work, which has included an extraordinary range of charitable activities over the years.
"Barbra Streisand is a genuine Renaissance woman, someone for whom artistry and philanthropy go hand in hand," said Portnow. "The enormous talent, passion and dedication she brings to her creative projects — whether film, television or music — are matched by the generosity and commitment she devotes to her charitable causes. It is fitting to celebrate the incredible legacy of Barbra at our 21st Annual MusiCares Person of the Year tribute."
"Barbra is synonymous with artistic excellence," said Caine. "What is truly remarkable is that an artist of her stature also gives back with such open arms. As part of her wide philanthropy, over $21 million was directed to causes she supports from her two most recent concert tours."
"For me, being able to create is both a gift and a responsibility, and I have seen firsthand the power of philanthropy to make the world a safer, healthier and more peaceful place," said Streisand. "It is an honor to be recognized as the 2011 MusiCares Person of the Year. I have so much respect for the work they do to create a lifeline of resources — whether it's emergency financial assistance or access to addiction recovery resources — for music people in times of need."
The 2011 MusiCares Person of the Year gala will begin with a reception and silent auction offering an exclusive and unparalleled selection of luxury items, VIP experiences and one-of-a-kind celebrity memorabilia for bidding guests. The reception and silent auction will be followed by a dinner, the award presentation and a star-studded tribute concert. The MusiCares Person of the Year tribute ceremony is one of the most prestigious events held during GRAMMY Week. The celebration culminates with the 53rd Annual GRAMMY Awards at STAPLES Center on Sunday, Feb. 13, 2011. The telecast will be broadcast live on the CBS Television Network at 8 p.m. ET/PT.
Barbra Streisand's career has been marked by bold creative achievements and highlighted by a series of firsts. An unparalleled talent, Streisand is the only artist ever to receive Oscar®, Tony®, Emmy®, GRAMMY, Directors Guild of America, Golden Globe®, National Medal of Arts, and Peabody awards, as well as France's Legion d'honneur and the American Film Institute's Lifetime Achievement Award. She is also the first female film director to receive the Kennedy Center Honors.
Streisand is the only performer to have a No. 1 album in five consecutive decades. She has earned 51 gold, 30 platinum and 18 multi-platinum albums, each of which exceeds all other female singers, according to the Recording Industry Association of America. The RIAA also notes that her 71.5 million album sales top the RIAA list of album sales by a female singer. With the debut of Love Is The Answer at No. 1 in 2009, the time span between her first and most recent No. 1 albums is 46 years — exceeding that of any other performer or act.
For her first motion picture, Funny Girl, she won the 1968 Academy Award® for best actress, the first of two Oscar nominations in that category. With Yentl (1983), her first film as a director, she became the first woman ever to produce, direct, write, and star in a major motion picture. Yentl earned five Oscar nominations and Golden Globes for both Best Director/Motion Picture and Best Motion Picture/Comedy or Musical. The Prince Of Tides, her next directorial feature in which she also produced and starred, was the first motion picture directed by its female star ever to receive a Feature Film nomination from the DGA as well as seven Academy Award nominations. She won a DGA award (Best Director Music/Variety Television Program) in 1994 for her television special, "Barbra: The Concert," which she co-directed with Dwight Hemion.
Her very first Broadway appearance in "I Can Get It For You Wholesale," earned her the New York Drama Critics Award and received a Tony nomination. For her very first solo recording, The Barbra Streisand Album, she won two GRAMMY Awards in 1963 for Best Vocal Performance, Female and Album Of The Year; which made her the youngest artist to have received that award at the time. For "Evergreen," the love theme from her 1976 hit film, A Star Is Born, she became the first female composer ever to win an Academy Award. She was nominated again in 1997 as co-composer of "I Finally Found Someone," based on her 1996 film The Mirror Has Two Faces. The film achieved two Oscar nominations and the best supporting actress Golden Globe for Lauren Bacall. Streisand's first television special, "My Name Is Barbra" (1965), received five Emmy Awards, including one for best performance, as well as her first of two Peabody Awards. This achievement was repeated 30 years later by "Barbra: The Concert," which won two additional Emmy Awards for Streisand among the five for the production. That show was also accorded a Peabody Award, a DGA award and three CableACE awards, and it became the highest-rated musical event in HBO's history. Her 2001 television concert special, "Timeless. Live in Concert," also co-directed by its star, won four more Emmys, including one for Streisand's performance.
DVD releases of her concerts have achieved notable recent firsts. In 2009 her three-disc offering, Streisand The Concerts, reigned in the No. 1 position on Billboard's DVD charts for three weeks. A year later, One Night Only, capturing her heralded performance at the Village Vanguard in New York before an audience of 100 lottery-picked fans and some of her notable friends, opened at No. 1 as well.
Her civil rights activism and philanthropic pursuits are just as impressive. The Streisand Foundation has given millions of dollars through 2,100 grants to nonprofit organizations and she has raised many millions more through her performances. Streisand supports an impressive range of causes from AIDS organizations to nonprofits that work on issues of women's equality, the protection of both human rights and civil rights, the needs of children at risk in society, the preservation of the environment, Jewish/Arab relations, and relations between African-Americans and Jews.
Established in 1989 by The Recording Academy, MusiCares provides a safety net of critical assistance for music people in times of need. MusiCares' services and resources cover a wide range of financial, medical and personal emergencies, and each case is treated with integrity and confidentiality. MusiCares also focuses the resources and attention of the music industry on human service issues that directly impact the health and welfare of the music community. For more information, please visit http://www.musicares.com/.
Established in 1957, The Recording Academy is an organization of musicians, producers, engineers and recording professionals that is dedicated to improving the cultural condition and quality of life for music and its makers. Internationally known for the GRAMMY Awards — the preeminent peer-recognized award for musical excellence and the most credible brand in music — The Recording Academy is responsible for groundbreaking professional development, cultural enrichment, advocacy, education and human services programs. The Academy continues to focus on its mission of recognizing musical excellence, advocating for the well-being of music makers and ensuring music remains an indelible part of our culture.
For more information about The Academy, please visit www.grammy.com. For breaking news and exclusive content, join the organization's social networks on Facebook (www.facebook.com/thegrammys ), MySpace (www.myspace.com/thegrammys ), Twitter (www.twitter.com/thegrammys ), and YouTube (www.youtube.com/thegrammys).
For information on purchasing tables and tickets to the event, please contact Dana Tomarken at MusiCares, 310.392.3777.
The legendary artist is being honored as the MusiCares Person of the Year in recognition of her renowned creative accomplishments as well as her philanthropic work, which has included an extraordinary range of charitable activities over the years.
"Barbra Streisand is a genuine Renaissance woman, someone for whom artistry and philanthropy go hand in hand," said Portnow. "The enormous talent, passion and dedication she brings to her creative projects — whether film, television or music — are matched by the generosity and commitment she devotes to her charitable causes. It is fitting to celebrate the incredible legacy of Barbra at our 21st Annual MusiCares Person of the Year tribute."
"Barbra is synonymous with artistic excellence," said Caine. "What is truly remarkable is that an artist of her stature also gives back with such open arms. As part of her wide philanthropy, over $21 million was directed to causes she supports from her two most recent concert tours."
"For me, being able to create is both a gift and a responsibility, and I have seen firsthand the power of philanthropy to make the world a safer, healthier and more peaceful place," said Streisand. "It is an honor to be recognized as the 2011 MusiCares Person of the Year. I have so much respect for the work they do to create a lifeline of resources — whether it's emergency financial assistance or access to addiction recovery resources — for music people in times of need."
The 2011 MusiCares Person of the Year gala will begin with a reception and silent auction offering an exclusive and unparalleled selection of luxury items, VIP experiences and one-of-a-kind celebrity memorabilia for bidding guests. The reception and silent auction will be followed by a dinner, the award presentation and a star-studded tribute concert. The MusiCares Person of the Year tribute ceremony is one of the most prestigious events held during GRAMMY Week. The celebration culminates with the 53rd Annual GRAMMY Awards at STAPLES Center on Sunday, Feb. 13, 2011. The telecast will be broadcast live on the CBS Television Network at 8 p.m. ET/PT.
Barbra Streisand's career has been marked by bold creative achievements and highlighted by a series of firsts. An unparalleled talent, Streisand is the only artist ever to receive Oscar®, Tony®, Emmy®, GRAMMY, Directors Guild of America, Golden Globe®, National Medal of Arts, and Peabody awards, as well as France's Legion d'honneur and the American Film Institute's Lifetime Achievement Award. She is also the first female film director to receive the Kennedy Center Honors.
Streisand is the only performer to have a No. 1 album in five consecutive decades. She has earned 51 gold, 30 platinum and 18 multi-platinum albums, each of which exceeds all other female singers, according to the Recording Industry Association of America. The RIAA also notes that her 71.5 million album sales top the RIAA list of album sales by a female singer. With the debut of Love Is The Answer at No. 1 in 2009, the time span between her first and most recent No. 1 albums is 46 years — exceeding that of any other performer or act.
For her first motion picture, Funny Girl, she won the 1968 Academy Award® for best actress, the first of two Oscar nominations in that category. With Yentl (1983), her first film as a director, she became the first woman ever to produce, direct, write, and star in a major motion picture. Yentl earned five Oscar nominations and Golden Globes for both Best Director/Motion Picture and Best Motion Picture/Comedy or Musical. The Prince Of Tides, her next directorial feature in which she also produced and starred, was the first motion picture directed by its female star ever to receive a Feature Film nomination from the DGA as well as seven Academy Award nominations. She won a DGA award (Best Director Music/Variety Television Program) in 1994 for her television special, "Barbra: The Concert," which she co-directed with Dwight Hemion.
Her very first Broadway appearance in "I Can Get It For You Wholesale," earned her the New York Drama Critics Award and received a Tony nomination. For her very first solo recording, The Barbra Streisand Album, she won two GRAMMY Awards in 1963 for Best Vocal Performance, Female and Album Of The Year; which made her the youngest artist to have received that award at the time. For "Evergreen," the love theme from her 1976 hit film, A Star Is Born, she became the first female composer ever to win an Academy Award. She was nominated again in 1997 as co-composer of "I Finally Found Someone," based on her 1996 film The Mirror Has Two Faces. The film achieved two Oscar nominations and the best supporting actress Golden Globe for Lauren Bacall. Streisand's first television special, "My Name Is Barbra" (1965), received five Emmy Awards, including one for best performance, as well as her first of two Peabody Awards. This achievement was repeated 30 years later by "Barbra: The Concert," which won two additional Emmy Awards for Streisand among the five for the production. That show was also accorded a Peabody Award, a DGA award and three CableACE awards, and it became the highest-rated musical event in HBO's history. Her 2001 television concert special, "Timeless. Live in Concert," also co-directed by its star, won four more Emmys, including one for Streisand's performance.
DVD releases of her concerts have achieved notable recent firsts. In 2009 her three-disc offering, Streisand The Concerts, reigned in the No. 1 position on Billboard's DVD charts for three weeks. A year later, One Night Only, capturing her heralded performance at the Village Vanguard in New York before an audience of 100 lottery-picked fans and some of her notable friends, opened at No. 1 as well.
Her civil rights activism and philanthropic pursuits are just as impressive. The Streisand Foundation has given millions of dollars through 2,100 grants to nonprofit organizations and she has raised many millions more through her performances. Streisand supports an impressive range of causes from AIDS organizations to nonprofits that work on issues of women's equality, the protection of both human rights and civil rights, the needs of children at risk in society, the preservation of the environment, Jewish/Arab relations, and relations between African-Americans and Jews.
Established in 1989 by The Recording Academy, MusiCares provides a safety net of critical assistance for music people in times of need. MusiCares' services and resources cover a wide range of financial, medical and personal emergencies, and each case is treated with integrity and confidentiality. MusiCares also focuses the resources and attention of the music industry on human service issues that directly impact the health and welfare of the music community. For more information, please visit http://www.musicares.com/.
Established in 1957, The Recording Academy is an organization of musicians, producers, engineers and recording professionals that is dedicated to improving the cultural condition and quality of life for music and its makers. Internationally known for the GRAMMY Awards — the preeminent peer-recognized award for musical excellence and the most credible brand in music — The Recording Academy is responsible for groundbreaking professional development, cultural enrichment, advocacy, education and human services programs. The Academy continues to focus on its mission of recognizing musical excellence, advocating for the well-being of music makers and ensuring music remains an indelible part of our culture.
For more information about The Academy, please visit www.grammy.com. For breaking news and exclusive content, join the organization's social networks on Facebook (www.facebook.com/thegrammys ), MySpace (www.myspace.com/thegrammys ), Twitter (www.twitter.com/thegrammys ), and YouTube (www.youtube.com/thegrammys).
For information on purchasing tables and tickets to the event, please contact Dana Tomarken at MusiCares, 310.392.3777.
Jennifer Aniston: The Barbra Streisand Cover Shoot
Cover girl Jennifer Aniston like you've never seen her before: as Barbra Streisand, America's original funny girl.
Click here for more on this fantastic article.
Monday, 2 August 2010
What's Up, Doc? Mini-review.
Well I had no reason to worry.
As I watched the movie for the first time in Blu-ray, I was blown away at how crisp and clear it was. It was like watching a new movie. If someone told me that it was filmed in 2010, I would have probably believed them! The details are so perfect that you can actually see how blue Barbra's eyes are -- and the sound is so clear that you can hear every bit of background music, such as the scene with Judy Maxwell standing in the lobby near the beginning of the movie.
Barbra's commentary throughout the movie is hilarious too.
"Hi, this is Barbra... Streisand"... As if she needs any introduction? And it's reassuring to know that even Barbra was confused with the suitcases -- even she didn't know who's was who!
"I always like stretched clothes... and I wore stretched satin. I remember singing in black satin, in concerts, because it was easy to breathe, sing and move".
"My hair was so straight in those days. It gets curlier as you get older". And so on. I'm no technical expert, but all in all, Warner Bros have done a wonderful job transferring this movie to Blu-ray.
It's a must for anyone's collection. The colors are remarkable, and the sound is crisp.
Let's hope we see just as good results with other movies such as Funny Girl, The Way We Were, Prince of Tides and all the others.
Since next year is the 20th anniversary of Prince of Tides, it would be nice if Sony pushed the boat out - and released a deluxe edition of the movie - including all of the wonderful behind-the-scenes footage that Barbra worked on in the early 90s, which were due to be released on Laserdisc - but shelved at the last moment. Bonus features included camera tests, rehearsal footage, additional endings, deleted scenes and so much more. Sony -- if you're listening?
What's Up, Doc? is released on August 10. Order your copy here:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003IVXRAI?ie=UTF8&tag=barbranewsc02-20&linkCode=xm2&camp=1789&creativeASIN=B003IVXRAI
Thursday, 29 July 2010
Barbra To Attend Wedding Of The Year?
I'm sure it's no surprise to hear that Barbra may attend the wedding of Chelsea Clinton and Marc Mezvinsky on Saturday in Rhinebeck, NY. While there have been no official statements released from Barbra's people -- just about every press report has listed Barbra as an attendee.
We'll let you know if any photographs are released of Barbra at the wedding, but knowing how press-shy Chelsea Clinton is, it's likely to be private family and friend affair.
We'll let you know if any photographs are released of Barbra at the wedding, but knowing how press-shy Chelsea Clinton is, it's likely to be private family and friend affair.
Tuesday, 20 July 2010
Hot Rumor: Barbra's Next Movie?
From Playlist.com:
Barbra Streisand & Seth Rogen Offered Roles In The Comedy 'My Mother's Curse'
Yes, it's an offer story so it's nothing close to gospel yet, but it is a potentially interesting duo.
In the latest issue of Production Weekly, it's revealed that Barbra Streisand and Seth Rogen have been offered roles in the comedy "My Mother's Curse." The film is the rather heartwarming-sounding tale of an inventor who embarks on a road trip with his mother with a secret plan to reunite her with a long lost love.
Here's the synopsis from PW:
The young inventor of a new organic cleaning product invites his mother on a cross-country road trip as he tries to sell his product to marketing outlets. His ulterior motive is to reunite her with a man she loved when she was young, and her motive is to help him overcome his ‘curse’ of non-commitment in relationships, for which she blames herself.
Streisand and Rogen are being offered the roles of mother and son, Joyce and Andy Brewster. The film has a script from Dan Fogelman ("Cars," "Crazy, Stupid, Love") and, less promisingly, has Anne Fletcher ("27 Dresses," "The Proposal") in the director's chair.
Again, these are just offers and both, one or neither of them may sign on. But the teaming of Streisand and Rogen could potentially be kind of great, so we'll be watching to see how this plays out.
Barbra Streisand & Seth Rogen Offered Roles In The Comedy 'My Mother's Curse'
Yes, it's an offer story so it's nothing close to gospel yet, but it is a potentially interesting duo.
In the latest issue of Production Weekly, it's revealed that Barbra Streisand and Seth Rogen have been offered roles in the comedy "My Mother's Curse." The film is the rather heartwarming-sounding tale of an inventor who embarks on a road trip with his mother with a secret plan to reunite her with a long lost love.
Here's the synopsis from PW:
The young inventor of a new organic cleaning product invites his mother on a cross-country road trip as he tries to sell his product to marketing outlets. His ulterior motive is to reunite her with a man she loved when she was young, and her motive is to help him overcome his ‘curse’ of non-commitment in relationships, for which she blames herself.
Streisand and Rogen are being offered the roles of mother and son, Joyce and Andy Brewster. The film has a script from Dan Fogelman ("Cars," "Crazy, Stupid, Love") and, less promisingly, has Anne Fletcher ("27 Dresses," "The Proposal") in the director's chair.
Again, these are just offers and both, one or neither of them may sign on. But the teaming of Streisand and Rogen could potentially be kind of great, so we'll be watching to see how this plays out.
Sunday, 11 July 2010
Barbra in Aspen
Barbra was in Aspen this week to attend the 'Aspen Ideas Festival'.
Entering its sixth year, the Aspen Ideas Festival is a conversation-packed exploration of some of the most important ideas and pressing issues we face. Presented by the Aspen Institute and The Atlantic magazine, the Festival strives to highlight the ideas of experts at the forefront of their fields and of leaders whose actions are changing the world.
Here's a photo of Barbra talking to Harvard Professor, Niall Ferguson:
Entering its sixth year, the Aspen Ideas Festival is a conversation-packed exploration of some of the most important ideas and pressing issues we face. Presented by the Aspen Institute and The Atlantic magazine, the Festival strives to highlight the ideas of experts at the forefront of their fields and of leaders whose actions are changing the world.
Here's a photo of Barbra talking to Harvard Professor, Niall Ferguson:
Wednesday, 7 July 2010
Barbra is 2010 "California Hall of Fame" Inductee.
Sacramento, CA July 7, 2010 - Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and First Lady Maria Shriver today released the names of the 2010 inductees to The California Museum's California Hall of Fame. In its fifth year, the California Hall of Fame has continued the tradition of honoring legendary people who embody California's innovative spirit and have made their mark on history.
The 2010 California Hall of Fame inductees are: Governor Edmund G. "Pat" Brown, film-maker James Cameron, Silicon Valley visionary investor John Doerr, father of modern banking A.P. Giannini, country music legend Merle Haggard, author and activist Anne Lamott, former Secretary of State George Shultz, historian Dr. Kevin Starr, businessman and philanthropist Levi Strauss, screen and music icon Barbra Streisand, artist Wayne Thiebaud, comedienne Betty White, tennis champion Serena Williams, and Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg.
The 2010 inductees join 51 California Hall of Fame inductees who have made great achievements in science, philanthropy, sports, business, entertainment, literature, fitness, technology, activism and politics. The California Hall of Fame highlights the broad range of California interests by honoring trailblazers who have broken barriers in not just one field or talent, but have impacted the world with their overall courage, determination and creativity.
"The California Hall of Fame is a great way to honor amazing Californians whose dedication, determination and courage have helped shape this state," said Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. "What they have accomplished reminds us all that we live in the greatest state, one of opportunity and prosperity. They make me proud to call California home, and proud that they are this year's inductees."
"I am so honored to be able to recognize this incredible roster of people who are not only an inspiration to me but to others across California and beyond," said First Lady Maria Shriver. "They represent the diversity, innovation and creativity that overflows from our amazing state."
"Eureka! That word best described the California Gold Rush and it best describes the discovery of pure, raw talent that has been mined in California since 1849," said The California Museum's Executive Director, Claudia French. "These 14 modern day explorers represent the passion and risk-taking that is quintessential California."
The California Hall of Fame induction ceremony will take place on Tuesday, December 14, 2010 at The California Museum in Sacramento. The ceremony will be followed by a reception and unveiling of the new exhibit installation, featuring artifacts and mementos personally loaned by the inductees, their families and organizations, including many items that have never been exhibited before.
All living inductees and family of posthumous inductees are scheduled to participate in the presentation of the Spirit of California medals by the Governor and First Lady.
"California is known for its beauty, diversity and creative community," said Barbra Streisand. " It's respected for its leadership in scientific research, environmental awareness and regulation. But to me, for most of my adult life, California is simply home. Thank you to the State of California for honoring me as an artist and a citizen."
The California Hall of Fame-inspired Dreamers Challenge, an extension of the institution's mission to dare young people to dream, was designed to recognize innovative and creative thinking by awarding two $5,000 scholarships to high school seniors who can best illustrate how they would change the world. Unlike other scholarship contests, participants can respond in whatever medium suits their style and talent – painting, poetry, videos, musical creations, essays or Power Point presentations, for example.
Visit The California Museum website, CaliforniaMuseum.org, for more information and to access images and biographies of each of the inductees.
To date, the 2010 California Hall of Fame sponsors include The California Governor and First Lady's Conference on Women and the California Travel and Tourism Commission.
About The California Museum
The California Museum – home of the California Hall of Fame and California Legacy Trails – engages, educates and enlightens people about California's rich history and its unique contribution to the world through ideas, innovation, art and culture. Through captivating, interactive and innovative experiences, the Museum seeks to inspire men, women and children to dream the California dream and dare to make their mark on history. Open Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. Noon-5 p.m.; Adults $8.50, Students/Seniors (with valid I.D.) $7, Children 6-13 $6.00; Free for Children 5 and Younger. Parking is free on the weekends. CaliforniaMuseum.org.
The 2010 California Hall of Fame inductees are: Governor Edmund G. "Pat" Brown, film-maker James Cameron, Silicon Valley visionary investor John Doerr, father of modern banking A.P. Giannini, country music legend Merle Haggard, author and activist Anne Lamott, former Secretary of State George Shultz, historian Dr. Kevin Starr, businessman and philanthropist Levi Strauss, screen and music icon Barbra Streisand, artist Wayne Thiebaud, comedienne Betty White, tennis champion Serena Williams, and Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg.
The 2010 inductees join 51 California Hall of Fame inductees who have made great achievements in science, philanthropy, sports, business, entertainment, literature, fitness, technology, activism and politics. The California Hall of Fame highlights the broad range of California interests by honoring trailblazers who have broken barriers in not just one field or talent, but have impacted the world with their overall courage, determination and creativity.
"The California Hall of Fame is a great way to honor amazing Californians whose dedication, determination and courage have helped shape this state," said Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. "What they have accomplished reminds us all that we live in the greatest state, one of opportunity and prosperity. They make me proud to call California home, and proud that they are this year's inductees."
"I am so honored to be able to recognize this incredible roster of people who are not only an inspiration to me but to others across California and beyond," said First Lady Maria Shriver. "They represent the diversity, innovation and creativity that overflows from our amazing state."
"Eureka! That word best described the California Gold Rush and it best describes the discovery of pure, raw talent that has been mined in California since 1849," said The California Museum's Executive Director, Claudia French. "These 14 modern day explorers represent the passion and risk-taking that is quintessential California."
The California Hall of Fame induction ceremony will take place on Tuesday, December 14, 2010 at The California Museum in Sacramento. The ceremony will be followed by a reception and unveiling of the new exhibit installation, featuring artifacts and mementos personally loaned by the inductees, their families and organizations, including many items that have never been exhibited before.
All living inductees and family of posthumous inductees are scheduled to participate in the presentation of the Spirit of California medals by the Governor and First Lady.
"California is known for its beauty, diversity and creative community," said Barbra Streisand. " It's respected for its leadership in scientific research, environmental awareness and regulation. But to me, for most of my adult life, California is simply home. Thank you to the State of California for honoring me as an artist and a citizen."
The California Hall of Fame-inspired Dreamers Challenge, an extension of the institution's mission to dare young people to dream, was designed to recognize innovative and creative thinking by awarding two $5,000 scholarships to high school seniors who can best illustrate how they would change the world. Unlike other scholarship contests, participants can respond in whatever medium suits their style and talent – painting, poetry, videos, musical creations, essays or Power Point presentations, for example.
Visit The California Museum website, CaliforniaMuseum.org, for more information and to access images and biographies of each of the inductees.
To date, the 2010 California Hall of Fame sponsors include The California Governor and First Lady's Conference on Women and the California Travel and Tourism Commission.
About The California Museum
The California Museum – home of the California Hall of Fame and California Legacy Trails – engages, educates and enlightens people about California's rich history and its unique contribution to the world through ideas, innovation, art and culture. Through captivating, interactive and innovative experiences, the Museum seeks to inspire men, women and children to dream the California dream and dare to make their mark on history. Open Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. Noon-5 p.m.; Adults $8.50, Students/Seniors (with valid I.D.) $7, Children 6-13 $6.00; Free for Children 5 and Younger. Parking is free on the weekends. CaliforniaMuseum.org.
Thursday, 1 July 2010
Barbra's New Book -- More Details
For nearly five decades Barbra Streisand has been one of the most singular figures in American entertainment. From the cabaret to the Broadway stage, from television and film stardom to her acclaimed work as a director, from the recording studio to the concert hall, she has demonstrated that the extraordinary voice that launched her career was only one of her remarkable gifts.
Now, in her first book, My Passion for Design, Barbra Streisand reveals another aspect of her talent: the taste and style that have inspired her beautiful homes and collections. My Passion for Design will focus on the architecture and construction of her newest homes, the dream refuge she has longed for since the days when she shared a small Brooklyn apartment with her mother, brother, and grandparents. The book itself, a culmination and reflection of Barbra's love of American architecture and design between the eighteenth and twentieth centuries, will contain many of her own photographs of the rooms she has decorated, the furniture and art she has collected, and the ravishing gardens she has planned on her land on the California coast. In addition to glimpses of her homes, Barbra will share memories of her childhood, the development of her sense of style, and what collecting has come to mean to her.
My Passion for Design is a rare and intimate private tour into the world of one of our most beloved stars that will be welcomed by her fans and all lovers of the great achievements of American design.
Click here to pre-order this extraordinary book.
Now, in her first book, My Passion for Design, Barbra Streisand reveals another aspect of her talent: the taste and style that have inspired her beautiful homes and collections. My Passion for Design will focus on the architecture and construction of her newest homes, the dream refuge she has longed for since the days when she shared a small Brooklyn apartment with her mother, brother, and grandparents. The book itself, a culmination and reflection of Barbra's love of American architecture and design between the eighteenth and twentieth centuries, will contain many of her own photographs of the rooms she has decorated, the furniture and art she has collected, and the ravishing gardens she has planned on her land on the California coast. In addition to glimpses of her homes, Barbra will share memories of her childhood, the development of her sense of style, and what collecting has come to mean to her.
My Passion for Design is a rare and intimate private tour into the world of one of our most beloved stars that will be welcomed by her fans and all lovers of the great achievements of American design.
Click here to pre-order this extraordinary book.
Wednesday, 30 June 2010
Barbra attends "South Of The Border" Screening in LA.
(L-R) James Brolin, Oliver Stone, Barbra Streisand and Benicio Del Toro attend the Los Angeles private screening of "South of the Border" at CAA on June 28, 2010 in Los Angeles, California.
Apologies for the poor quality photos.
Friday, 25 June 2010
Friday, 18 June 2010
A Family Affair in Hollywood.
Barbra and hubby James Brolin were spotted at the ArcLight Cinema last night for the premiere of Jonah Hex, which starred Josh Brolin (Son of James Brolin).
Wednesday, 2 June 2010
Barbra Talks To MatthewsPlace.com
In the fight for equality, sometimes we can get so wrapped up in the present that we forget that this struggle has been going on for decades --- and that those who have been speaking out on our behalf for many years have made possible the current level of societal acceptance of LGBT people.
There are few other individuals who have been such unabashed advocates for equality as Ms. Barbra Streisand, who has been at the forefront of the fight for her entire career. Recently Ms. Streisand was gracious enough to give a bit of her time to answer some questions for MatthewsPlace.com. We send her our sincere thanks for her compassion, generosity and candor. The world is a safer place because of her voice.
MP: In our work with young people, we often encounter folks who are consistently bullied in school and don't feel that anyone cares or even acknowledges what they are going through. Have you ever been picked on for something that made you different, and if so, what impact did those experiences have in making you the person you are today?
BS: When I was about 13 years old, I had my own style and kids made fun of me for the makeup I wore and the way I colored my hair. And when I was older and had established a career as a successful actress, I wasn't allowed to live in a particular apartment building in New York because I was either Jewish or in the entertainment industry. It was a horrible feeling. I could finally afford to buy an apartment in New York and I had recommendation letters from the mayor of [New York City] and the governor of [New York], but they still wouldn't let me purchase property in the building. I think those experiences made me sensitive to people who aren't always included in the mainstream. I am always conscious to recognize and empathize with those who have been marginalized, ignored, discriminated against, or bullied for being different. ?
MP: You've had such a remarkable career over many decades in film and music. Have you seen changes over that time period in the role LGBT people play in the entertainment industry, or in their ability to be open about themselves in the workplace?
BS: I think some of the most creative, talented and innovative people in our industry come from the LGBT community. But we do have a long way to go in terms of making it comfortable and safe for gays and lesbians in the industry to be open and honest about who they are. There is still fear that being "out" in Hollywood could compromise an actor's career by affecting the kinds of roles or opportunities he or she is offered. But in acknowledging that reality, I do believe that we are moving forward and starting to break through the stereotypes and stigmas that once really inhibited actors from being true to themselves and having a successful career in the business. I look forward to the day when people are hired because they are the best person for the job and are not excluded from opportunities because of their sexual preference, gender, or ethnicity.
MP: You have been a consistent advocate for equality throughout your career. In our work at the Foundation we are beginning to see a rise in the ally voice among young people. What role do you see their voice playing in the equality movement?
BS: I don't think many people would argue that LGBT equality is the civil rights fight of this generation. Young people today are far more open-minded about the issue than the older generation. The notion that gay people deserve the same rights as heterosexual people in marriage, the military, the workplace, etc., seems to be so obvious, yet the struggle continues. But this generation believes and understands that these rights should be available to all people, not just a privileged few. It's one of the major issues today where young people have found a common voice to rally behind, just as the civil rights movement was a unifying cause for my generation. This push for equality has created a new generation of activists, and I think that's wonderful.
There are few other individuals who have been such unabashed advocates for equality as Ms. Barbra Streisand, who has been at the forefront of the fight for her entire career. Recently Ms. Streisand was gracious enough to give a bit of her time to answer some questions for MatthewsPlace.com. We send her our sincere thanks for her compassion, generosity and candor. The world is a safer place because of her voice.
MP: In our work with young people, we often encounter folks who are consistently bullied in school and don't feel that anyone cares or even acknowledges what they are going through. Have you ever been picked on for something that made you different, and if so, what impact did those experiences have in making you the person you are today?
BS: When I was about 13 years old, I had my own style and kids made fun of me for the makeup I wore and the way I colored my hair. And when I was older and had established a career as a successful actress, I wasn't allowed to live in a particular apartment building in New York because I was either Jewish or in the entertainment industry. It was a horrible feeling. I could finally afford to buy an apartment in New York and I had recommendation letters from the mayor of [New York City] and the governor of [New York], but they still wouldn't let me purchase property in the building. I think those experiences made me sensitive to people who aren't always included in the mainstream. I am always conscious to recognize and empathize with those who have been marginalized, ignored, discriminated against, or bullied for being different. ?
MP: You've had such a remarkable career over many decades in film and music. Have you seen changes over that time period in the role LGBT people play in the entertainment industry, or in their ability to be open about themselves in the workplace?
BS: I think some of the most creative, talented and innovative people in our industry come from the LGBT community. But we do have a long way to go in terms of making it comfortable and safe for gays and lesbians in the industry to be open and honest about who they are. There is still fear that being "out" in Hollywood could compromise an actor's career by affecting the kinds of roles or opportunities he or she is offered. But in acknowledging that reality, I do believe that we are moving forward and starting to break through the stereotypes and stigmas that once really inhibited actors from being true to themselves and having a successful career in the business. I look forward to the day when people are hired because they are the best person for the job and are not excluded from opportunities because of their sexual preference, gender, or ethnicity.
MP: You have been a consistent advocate for equality throughout your career. In our work at the Foundation we are beginning to see a rise in the ally voice among young people. What role do you see their voice playing in the equality movement?
BS: I don't think many people would argue that LGBT equality is the civil rights fight of this generation. Young people today are far more open-minded about the issue than the older generation. The notion that gay people deserve the same rights as heterosexual people in marriage, the military, the workplace, etc., seems to be so obvious, yet the struggle continues. But this generation believes and understands that these rights should be available to all people, not just a privileged few. It's one of the major issues today where young people have found a common voice to rally behind, just as the civil rights movement was a unifying cause for my generation. This push for equality has created a new generation of activists, and I think that's wonderful.
Tuesday, 1 June 2010
Monday, 31 May 2010
Barbra Streisand backs Scots music student for stardom
From DailyRecord.co.uk
A scots singing student has been tipped for stardom by legend Barbra Streisand.
Maureen McMullan, who's studying at Berklee College of Music in Boston, came face to face with the superstar after she was told someone wanted to congratulate her on her performance of Summertime at a student show.
The 30-year-old, of Coatbridge, Lanarkshire, said: "I was astonished when Barbra Streisand stepped forward.
"She took my hand and said, 'You have a wonderful voice. Never give up.'"
A scots singing student has been tipped for stardom by legend Barbra Streisand.
Maureen McMullan, who's studying at Berklee College of Music in Boston, came face to face with the superstar after she was told someone wanted to congratulate her on her performance of Summertime at a student show.
The 30-year-old, of Coatbridge, Lanarkshire, said: "I was astonished when Barbra Streisand stepped forward.
"She took my hand and said, 'You have a wonderful voice. Never give up.'"
Saturday, 29 May 2010
Barbra Performs at Sandy Gallin's Birthday?
From The New York Post:
Legendary talent manager Sandy Gallin celebrated his 70th birthday in style -- by jokingly trying to strip Hugh Jackman at a party packed with stars including Barbra Streisand, Bruce Springsteen, David Geffen and Calvin Klein.
Gallin -- who managed Dolly Parton, Mariah Carey and Whoopi Goldberg -- threw his birthday bash at Donna Karan's West Village studio Thursday night. Streisand and Patti LaBelle performed at the party, but it was "Wolverine" star Jackman's turn that drove the crowd wild.
A spy told us, "Jackman got up and was singing to Sandy . . . Then Sandy jumped up and started to unbutton Jackman's shirt, but before he got too far, Jackman whirled him around and held his arms down. It was pretty funny."
Jackman, who's married with two kids, then joked, 'Come on, Sandy, let's face it. I am not your type. I am too old for you.' "
Streisand also performed two songs and poked fun at herself after repeatedly asking her pianist, composer-producer David Foster, to change the key. She said, "I am a little nervous. I didn't get to practice. I like to control." When Gallin yelled to her to perform "Over the Rainbow," she replied, "No."
Guests also included Joan Rivers, who gave a speech, Bette Midler, Vera Wang, Renée Zellweger, Richard Gere, Sandra Bernhardt, CBS chief Les Moonves and wife Julie Chen, hotelier Jeff Klein and p.r. maven Peggy Siegal. Billionaire Ron Perelman and ex-wife Ellen Barkin were there, but stuck to opposite sides of the room. Diane von Furstenberg and Barry Diller delivered a video message from their yacht, while Parton, who's celebrating the 25th anniversary of Dollywood, also sent a greeting.
Our witness said, "It was amazing how many people had flown in from LA. Sandy is famous for throwing the best parties, and this was the best of them all."
Legendary talent manager Sandy Gallin celebrated his 70th birthday in style -- by jokingly trying to strip Hugh Jackman at a party packed with stars including Barbra Streisand, Bruce Springsteen, David Geffen and Calvin Klein.
Gallin -- who managed Dolly Parton, Mariah Carey and Whoopi Goldberg -- threw his birthday bash at Donna Karan's West Village studio Thursday night. Streisand and Patti LaBelle performed at the party, but it was "Wolverine" star Jackman's turn that drove the crowd wild.
A spy told us, "Jackman got up and was singing to Sandy . . . Then Sandy jumped up and started to unbutton Jackman's shirt, but before he got too far, Jackman whirled him around and held his arms down. It was pretty funny."
Jackman, who's married with two kids, then joked, 'Come on, Sandy, let's face it. I am not your type. I am too old for you.' "
Streisand also performed two songs and poked fun at herself after repeatedly asking her pianist, composer-producer David Foster, to change the key. She said, "I am a little nervous. I didn't get to practice. I like to control." When Gallin yelled to her to perform "Over the Rainbow," she replied, "No."
Guests also included Joan Rivers, who gave a speech, Bette Midler, Vera Wang, Renée Zellweger, Richard Gere, Sandra Bernhardt, CBS chief Les Moonves and wife Julie Chen, hotelier Jeff Klein and p.r. maven Peggy Siegal. Billionaire Ron Perelman and ex-wife Ellen Barkin were there, but stuck to opposite sides of the room. Diane von Furstenberg and Barry Diller delivered a video message from their yacht, while Parton, who's celebrating the 25th anniversary of Dollywood, also sent a greeting.
Our witness said, "It was amazing how many people had flown in from LA. Sandy is famous for throwing the best parties, and this was the best of them all."
Thursday, 27 May 2010
Barbra on Broadway -- Again!
No, she wasn't performing -- but Barbra and James were spotted leaving the Broadway Play 'Red' on 26 May.
USA Today: Barbra Streisand is at home with her 'Passion for Design'
By Bob Minzesheimer, USA TODAY
NEW YORK — At 68, Barbra Streisand is writing her first book — but it's no memoir.
"I'm a little too private. I'm not ready to write about my life," Streisand said Tuesday at the opening of BookExpo America, a publishing convention.
She said she tried writing a few chapters of an autobiography but quit after deciding that "this is hard. I'd rather write a book about design."
That $60 coffee table book, MyPassion for Design, will be released Nov. 16. It will feature 350 photographs of a complex of houses Streisand helped design in Malibu, Calif.
There's her "main house," where she lives; an "elegant barn," which she described as her art project; her "mill house" with 200-year-old beams; and a guest house, nicknamed "Grandma's house" by Streisand's husband, James Brolin.
It's a long way from her childhood in Brooklyn, N.Y. In a staged interview at the convention with Gayle King, editor at large of O magazine, Streisand mentioned her father, a teacher who died when she was 15 months old, and how her family couldn't afford a couch until her mother remarried when Streisand was 8.
"Maybe that's why I love couches," she said.
She linked her favorite color, burgundy, to a sweater she had as a child and described her love of "pure lipstick red."
Her passion for architecture blossomed, she said, in 1994 when a movie she was supposed to direct, an adaptation of Larry Kramer's play The Normal Heart, fell apart. "A house became my project. I made a house instead of a movie."
King asked Streisand if she kept anything in her California homes that remind her of her New York childhood.
"You mean like egg creams?" Streisand quipped.
King persisted.
"No," Streisand replied. "We lived in a $40-a-month apartment. Five people shared one bathroom. I have nothing that reminds me of that."
NEW YORK — At 68, Barbra Streisand is writing her first book — but it's no memoir.
"I'm a little too private. I'm not ready to write about my life," Streisand said Tuesday at the opening of BookExpo America, a publishing convention.
She said she tried writing a few chapters of an autobiography but quit after deciding that "this is hard. I'd rather write a book about design."
That $60 coffee table book, MyPassion for Design, will be released Nov. 16. It will feature 350 photographs of a complex of houses Streisand helped design in Malibu, Calif.
There's her "main house," where she lives; an "elegant barn," which she described as her art project; her "mill house" with 200-year-old beams; and a guest house, nicknamed "Grandma's house" by Streisand's husband, James Brolin.
It's a long way from her childhood in Brooklyn, N.Y. In a staged interview at the convention with Gayle King, editor at large of O magazine, Streisand mentioned her father, a teacher who died when she was 15 months old, and how her family couldn't afford a couch until her mother remarried when Streisand was 8.
"Maybe that's why I love couches," she said.
She linked her favorite color, burgundy, to a sweater she had as a child and described her love of "pure lipstick red."
Her passion for architecture blossomed, she said, in 1994 when a movie she was supposed to direct, an adaptation of Larry Kramer's play The Normal Heart, fell apart. "A house became my project. I made a house instead of a movie."
King asked Streisand if she kept anything in her California homes that remind her of her New York childhood.
"You mean like egg creams?" Streisand quipped.
King persisted.
"No," Streisand replied. "We lived in a $40-a-month apartment. Five people shared one bathroom. I have nothing that reminds me of that."
Associated Press: Streisand discusses design book at NYC's BookExpo
By Hillel Italie (AP)
NEW YORK — Creating the perfect house is more than a passion for Barbra Streisand. It's almost primal.
The 68-year-old singer-actress-director was promoting her upcoming design book Tuesday at BookExpo America at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City.
Streisand says her many searches for cherished household objects is a way of compensating for her father's dying when she was 15 months old.
She told interviewer Gayle King that she thinks not having a father contributed to "this need of finding something you're looking for."
Streisand's "My Passion for Design" is scheduled to come out in the fall.
Barbra Streisand Brings Her Passion for Design to BEA
From Beliefnet.com
Last night I attended a rare, live interview with Barbra Streisand.
I don't think I am alone in saying that many people found it inspiring to just be in the same room with her. Hearing her speak for an hour was a different kind of sacred. Well... it was like buttah.I could see why, in the words of Mike Meyers, Coffee Talk with Linda Richman, you could feel "a little verklempt" around her. Even the interviewer, Gayle King, of Oprah Magazine and radio was the interviewer, did everything but bow at her feet to let her know how much she is adored.
She was there to kick off this year's Book Expo America--fondly known as BEA--as "the" keynote event. This coming fall, the Oscar-Emmy-Grammy-Tony winner and activist will add "author" to her impressive resume when her first book, My Passion for Design, is released by Penguin. BEA is the gathering place for booksellers and all of the publishing industry--a place where bestsellers are born.
It is so rare that Streisand does an interview that you want to listen closely as she shares details in a psychologically aware way. She said she had thought of writing a memoir, and penned a few chapters, but decided it is to personal and instead would write a design book. Even though most mortals will not get the chance to design million dollar homes, and may not be blessed with the same "exquisite" taste, we can dream and revel a bit in her devotion to details.
She shared that part of her meticulous detail to design came from a less than fortunate childhood. While her biggest fans seem to know this story, I had never heard it.
"We never had a couch," she said of her home in Brooklyn, NY, where she lived with her Mom and brother after her dad died when she was 15 months old. "So a couch was very special. My friends had couches. We only had a dining room table with stiff chairs so we sat around the dining room table."
Back then, she shared a bed with her mom and her brother slept on a pull out cot. It wasn't until her mom remarried when she was 8 that they had a couch. Even though it was unattractive with nubby olive green and gray, it was a couch!
The only real piece of furniture she had in her room was a dresser. She put a fish tank atop to have "something that moved." Years later, she would have the Pacific ocean outside her door.
During the interview it was revealed she seriously dislikes (hates) bright yellow and orange. She also mentioned a traumatic time in her youth that shaped her love of the color burgundy.
Preference for colors is psychologically linked to childhood, she said, and went on to tell the story of being sent to camp for kids with Anemia. Each child had to take medicated baths and wear a starched blue uniform. "The only way you could be individual was through your sweater."
Toby, the woman who watched her for her mom, knitted her a burgundy sweater with a wooden button, and it allowed young Barbra to have a color of her own.
When Streisand talked about the "Elegant Barn" and "Mill House" she designed, both featured in the book, the attention to detail and getting things right was pretty intense. It sounded like the kind of famous attention to detail we have always heard of her putting into her movies.
She says ii is really just about getting it right. Her eye for seeing that which is out of place has allowed her to also create iconic music and movies. But, she admits, "it is a blessing and curse."
She explained that in 1994, when a deal to direct a movie adaption of "The Normal Heart" fell through, she put her creativity into designing a home on her property. "I built a house instead of doing a movie," she said. Along the way, she went through a series of disappointing architects and construction crews and others who could not execute her vision.
She even took most of the 300 photos in her book herself. Why? She felt she had to. "Because it was my eye capturing the things I love."
Gayle King joked that Barbra was still furiously editing the galley of her book. "I will make changes until they rip it out of my hands," she admitted.
She refuted the idea that she is a perfectionist. "I only know that I strive for excellence. I don't know what it means to be a perfectionist. Nothing is perfect."
When King asked her if it is challenging to have her hands on every aspect of her work she admitted it can be and added, "But it allowed me to take responsibility for my own success."
From: http://blog.beliefnet.com/inspirationreport/2010/05/barbara-streisand-brings-her-passion-for-design-to-bea.html#ixzz0pLiyaad3
Putting It Together | Babs on Design
By Stephen Heyman -- New York Times.
As a rule, we avoid the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center like Chinese buffet. But for Barbra Joan Streisand, we made an exception. On Tuesday evening, Babs was on 11th Avenue to unveil her coming book, “My Passion for Design,” which is to be published by Viking in November. Passion? You could call it that, though Streisand’s relationship with design sounds more like an obsession. “When something is off its mark, it disturbs me viscerally,” she told a packed audience of publishing types gathered for BookExpo. “It’s not a good thing.”
Streisand, 68, will always be a New Yorker, but she’s been in Malibu so long she refers to our part of the world as “the East,” as if it’s Canaan or something. “The East” is where her architects come from, and Streisand has parted ways with quite a few of those, not to mention the stonemasons and the contractors she’s fired in her quest for residential paradise. She does not take no for an answer. She has created three homes on her ocean-side property, where she lives with her husband, the actor James Brolin, and her lap dog, Sammie, the Coton de Tuléar who’s pictured on the book’s cover. She’s tremendously hands-on: She makes her own sketches, and for a time she employed two full-time draftsmen to elaborate on them. She even took most of the photos that will appear in the book.
This affair with design began in 1990, when Streisand was scouting locations for “The Prince of Tides,” which was set in South Carolina. “I fell in love with plantation-style homes,” she recalled. She found a piece of property and wanted to build a Dixie dream house, with a magnificent closet fashioned like a department store. “We all live in our closets, don’t we?” Streisand asked the audience. “Well, some of us do.” But she decided she could do only the film or the house, and so the home project was deferred and the world saw Streisand, as Dr. Susan Lowenstein, steam it up with Nick Nolte. That odd pairing fits in with Streisand’s love of “the tension of opposites” — hard and soft, dark and light, Anshel and Yentl. Another example: she’ll cover a masculine Stickley wood chair with rose velvet. She’s also deeply into symmetry, and takes color-matching to great lengths, even coordinating the colors of the flowers in her garden to match her interiors. For her library, she picked only leatherbound books in burgundy and olive green.
Gayle King, the editor-at-large of O, the Oprah Magazine, interviewed Streisand but was obviously outmatched by the diva’s aesthetic prowess. “When I think of a Tiffany lamp,” King said, “I think of bright colors.” “No,” replied Streisand, “you’re thinking of fake Tiffany lamps.” Burn! King went on to quote Oprah, who likes to say, “God is in the details.” “Ah,” Streisand chimed in, “But Mies van der Rohe said the devil is in the details.” They’re both right, of course, but Babs had the last word.
As a rule, we avoid the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center like Chinese buffet. But for Barbra Joan Streisand, we made an exception. On Tuesday evening, Babs was on 11th Avenue to unveil her coming book, “My Passion for Design,” which is to be published by Viking in November. Passion? You could call it that, though Streisand’s relationship with design sounds more like an obsession. “When something is off its mark, it disturbs me viscerally,” she told a packed audience of publishing types gathered for BookExpo. “It’s not a good thing.”
Streisand, 68, will always be a New Yorker, but she’s been in Malibu so long she refers to our part of the world as “the East,” as if it’s Canaan or something. “The East” is where her architects come from, and Streisand has parted ways with quite a few of those, not to mention the stonemasons and the contractors she’s fired in her quest for residential paradise. She does not take no for an answer. She has created three homes on her ocean-side property, where she lives with her husband, the actor James Brolin, and her lap dog, Sammie, the Coton de Tuléar who’s pictured on the book’s cover. She’s tremendously hands-on: She makes her own sketches, and for a time she employed two full-time draftsmen to elaborate on them. She even took most of the photos that will appear in the book.
This affair with design began in 1990, when Streisand was scouting locations for “The Prince of Tides,” which was set in South Carolina. “I fell in love with plantation-style homes,” she recalled. She found a piece of property and wanted to build a Dixie dream house, with a magnificent closet fashioned like a department store. “We all live in our closets, don’t we?” Streisand asked the audience. “Well, some of us do.” But she decided she could do only the film or the house, and so the home project was deferred and the world saw Streisand, as Dr. Susan Lowenstein, steam it up with Nick Nolte. That odd pairing fits in with Streisand’s love of “the tension of opposites” — hard and soft, dark and light, Anshel and Yentl. Another example: she’ll cover a masculine Stickley wood chair with rose velvet. She’s also deeply into symmetry, and takes color-matching to great lengths, even coordinating the colors of the flowers in her garden to match her interiors. For her library, she picked only leatherbound books in burgundy and olive green.
Gayle King, the editor-at-large of O, the Oprah Magazine, interviewed Streisand but was obviously outmatched by the diva’s aesthetic prowess. “When I think of a Tiffany lamp,” King said, “I think of bright colors.” “No,” replied Streisand, “you’re thinking of fake Tiffany lamps.” Burn! King went on to quote Oprah, who likes to say, “God is in the details.” “Ah,” Streisand chimed in, “But Mies van der Rohe said the devil is in the details.” They’re both right, of course, but Babs had the last word.
BookExpo New York Review.
From Broadwayworld.com:
Barbra Streisand, the multi-gifted artist added another feather to her hat on May 25th by appearing in a casual setting at this year's BookExpo America (BEA) at the Opening Night Keynote Reception. This was the most anticipated keynote speaking event that the BookExpo experienced since Bill Clinton did the same event in 2004. People lined up a day early to secure tickets to be sure that they would see Barbra, and they did - in a new light and interviewed by the equally well known in popular culture - Gayle King, who is now a New Yorker.
It was a beautifully done, simply lit and executed event and the opening speech that brought on Ms. King and Ms. Streisand was given by Clare Ferraro, the president of Viking Penguin, Plume and Studio Books imprints of Penguin Putnam Publishing. It started out with a bang as Gayle and Barbra got into 'girl talk' immediately about color, clothing and things like that, and the laughs came tumbling down.
Gayle King expressed being in awe of Streisand and jumping at the opportunity to sit down with her. It was clear that she had read the galley of the book, cover to cover, in secret, on a plane coming from Los Angeles - while trying not to let anyone see over her shoulder.
The 288-page, photo filled book comes out on November 16, 2010 and is a great deal currently on sale at Amazon.com for a discounted price of $37.80.
There were some great things in the conversation including a previously unrevealed fact that surprised the audience - Streisand had also taken nearly all the photos in the book. As she said, "It's my eye, it's my vision, it's the way I see it" - to which, she got huge applause. The property she lives on in Malibu was clearly explained in terms of the three houses - the main house, 'Grandma's house' and the new elegant barn as well as the millhouse. The book is called My Passion For Design, and Streisand was on her game with the word 'passion' right up front.
Any question that Gayle asked, Barbra could immediately jump on and answer in a thorough and satisfying fashion, while also being quite entertaining as she confessed about her own characteristics regarding attention to detail, which could be perceived as both blessings and curses.
It became clear that the entire audience could relate to this as well as Gayle, as she herself told us had built two houses in her lifetime. The people at Penguin set the event up beautifully and there was a reception afterwards for guests of the book company. Streisand was praised for her diligence and delivery on such a full and complicated book, for which Rick Kot served as editor.
The other reason that this book will be a spectacular thing to own, is that Streisand wrote all of the content and it's loaded with stories and descriptions, as only she can do. Gayle did a nice job of touching on her career and Streisand told some very deep emotional childhood stories that were unexpected, but very welcome and made you understand much of what she has collected over the years and how she arrived at her work ethic, as a result of events during her youth. The whole thing lasted just over an hour, but the audience clearly would have stayed for more.
This book is something that everyone should put at the top of their Christmas list and should pre-order now to guarantee getting a copy, as its unknown how many will be in the first printing. We got a glimpse of the galley on the coffee table in front of her and it looks like a fascinating book that everyone will want to own. I must add, Gayle King got a huge round of applause for saying "it's nice to have a Kindle or a Nook or an iPad, but there's nothing like holding a book in your hand..." and the room burst into applause as you can imagine, since it was, after all, a BookExpo.
The event was low-key, not starry, accessible and thoroughly enjoyed by everyone in attendance.
Barbra Streisand, the multi-gifted artist added another feather to her hat on May 25th by appearing in a casual setting at this year's BookExpo America (BEA) at the Opening Night Keynote Reception. This was the most anticipated keynote speaking event that the BookExpo experienced since Bill Clinton did the same event in 2004. People lined up a day early to secure tickets to be sure that they would see Barbra, and they did - in a new light and interviewed by the equally well known in popular culture - Gayle King, who is now a New Yorker.
It was a beautifully done, simply lit and executed event and the opening speech that brought on Ms. King and Ms. Streisand was given by Clare Ferraro, the president of Viking Penguin, Plume and Studio Books imprints of Penguin Putnam Publishing. It started out with a bang as Gayle and Barbra got into 'girl talk' immediately about color, clothing and things like that, and the laughs came tumbling down.
Gayle King expressed being in awe of Streisand and jumping at the opportunity to sit down with her. It was clear that she had read the galley of the book, cover to cover, in secret, on a plane coming from Los Angeles - while trying not to let anyone see over her shoulder.
The 288-page, photo filled book comes out on November 16, 2010 and is a great deal currently on sale at Amazon.com for a discounted price of $37.80.
There were some great things in the conversation including a previously unrevealed fact that surprised the audience - Streisand had also taken nearly all the photos in the book. As she said, "It's my eye, it's my vision, it's the way I see it" - to which, she got huge applause. The property she lives on in Malibu was clearly explained in terms of the three houses - the main house, 'Grandma's house' and the new elegant barn as well as the millhouse. The book is called My Passion For Design, and Streisand was on her game with the word 'passion' right up front.
Any question that Gayle asked, Barbra could immediately jump on and answer in a thorough and satisfying fashion, while also being quite entertaining as she confessed about her own characteristics regarding attention to detail, which could be perceived as both blessings and curses.
It became clear that the entire audience could relate to this as well as Gayle, as she herself told us had built two houses in her lifetime. The people at Penguin set the event up beautifully and there was a reception afterwards for guests of the book company. Streisand was praised for her diligence and delivery on such a full and complicated book, for which Rick Kot served as editor.
The other reason that this book will be a spectacular thing to own, is that Streisand wrote all of the content and it's loaded with stories and descriptions, as only she can do. Gayle did a nice job of touching on her career and Streisand told some very deep emotional childhood stories that were unexpected, but very welcome and made you understand much of what she has collected over the years and how she arrived at her work ethic, as a result of events during her youth. The whole thing lasted just over an hour, but the audience clearly would have stayed for more.
This book is something that everyone should put at the top of their Christmas list and should pre-order now to guarantee getting a copy, as its unknown how many will be in the first printing. We got a glimpse of the galley on the coffee table in front of her and it looks like a fascinating book that everyone will want to own. I must add, Gayle King got a huge round of applause for saying "it's nice to have a Kindle or a Nook or an iPad, but there's nothing like holding a book in your hand..." and the room burst into applause as you can imagine, since it was, after all, a BookExpo.
The event was low-key, not starry, accessible and thoroughly enjoyed by everyone in attendance.
Thursday, 13 May 2010
Barbra and James in Boston.
The couple then dined at French Restaurant "Clio" with Roger Brown, president of Brolin's daughter's alma mater Berklee, and Brown's wife Linda Mason.
Wednesday, 12 May 2010
Playbill.com: Barbra @ Broadway's Fences.
Playbill.com spotted Barbra Streisand on her recent May 11 trip to Broadway’s current Tony Award-nominated revival of Fences.
The songstress attended with designer Donna Karan.
Streisand also took in Sondheim on Sondheim May 12. The Broadway vet earned Tony Award nominations for her turns in I Can Get It for You Wholesale and Funny Girl. She received a 1970 Special Tony Award.
Wednesday, 28 April 2010
"What's Up, Doc?" - First Barbra Movie on Blu-ray
Coming 10th August 2010.
Extras include:
- Scene-specific commentary by Barbra Streisand,
- Full movie commentary by Peter Bogdanovich
- Vintage Featurette.
Friday, 9 April 2010
Columbia Records to Release DVD/CD Of Barbra Streisand's Historic 2009 One Night Return To Cabaret Performance
NEW YORK, April 7 /PRNewswire/ -- One of the most celebrated concert performances of recent years, a one-time only event witnessed by little more than one hundred lottery-selected Barbra Streisand fans, will be made available on DVD and DVD/CD Combo Pack as well as Blu-Ray Disc by Columbia Records on May 4. The label has announced that release date for One Night Only – Barbra Streisand And Quartet At The Village Vanguard –September 26, 2009.
One Night Only covers the entire experience of Ms. Streisand's first cabaret performance in 48 years. The extraordinary event coincided with release of her Number One charting album Love Is The Answer last September which became the 51st Gold Record for the legendary singer who also has 30 Platinum. That top-of-the-charts launch for the leading album-selling female recording artist of all time (as noted by the RIAA) extended to five her record number of consecutive decades with a #1 charting. The new One Night Only CD will be a limited edition available only in the DVD/CD Combo Pack.
Ms. Streisand topped the DVD charts for three weeks in 2009, reigning for that period at number one with her three disc Streisand The Concerts. Her two disc Director's Extended Edition of Yentl was one of the top motion picture DVD offerings of last year.
An absorbing dream-come-true you-are-there high definition audio-visual document of Streisand's first cabaret performance in 48 years, One Night Only - Barbra Streisand and Quartet at the Village Vanguard - September 26, 2009 immerses the home viewer in a tiny West Village nightclub, privy to the best sight lines and sound imaginable, to share an exclusive and intimate evening that prompted the New York Times to marvel, "Concerts by Ms. Streisand are rare, but the scale of Saturday's show was exceptional enough to briefly upend the natural social order of celebrity events... Ms. Streisand was booked for one night at the Vanguard — legal capacity 123, absurdly small for an artist who has sold over 71 million albums in the United States alone... But outnumbering the boldface names were two busloads of ticket-lottery winners, ordinary fans from around the world. Some said they had never been able to afford a Streisand ticket before, but on this night they rubbed elbows with Oscar winners, The Secretary Of State and a former president..."
Songs on One Night Only - Barbra Streisand and Quartet at the Village Vanguard - September 26, 2009 include "Here's To Life," "In The Wee Small Hours of the Morning," "Gentle Rain," "Spring Can Really Hang You Up the Most," "If You Go Away (Ne Me Quitte Pas)," "Where Do You Start?," "Nobody's Heart (Belongs to Me), "Make Someone Happy," "My Funny Valentine," "Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered," "Evergreen (Love Theme from A Star Is Born)," "Some Other Time," and "The Way We Were." The DVD and Blu-ray disc include as a bonus, a feature on the club and its legendary owner Lorraine Gordon.
One Night Only - Barbra Streisand and Quartet at the Village Vanguard - September 26, 2009 is Executive Produced by Barbra Streisand and Martin Erlichman.
Barbra Streisand's Village Vanguard performance was originally booked to celebrate the release of Love Is The Answer, the artist's album of jazz standards hearkening back to her musical roots in New York cabaret. Released the week of the Village Vanguard show, Love Is The Answer became her ninth #1 album on the Billboard 200 and her 51st RIAA gold album in the US.
One Night Only - Barbra Streisand and Quartet at the Village Vanguard - September 26 is now available for pre-order on barbrastreisand.com.
One Night Only covers the entire experience of Ms. Streisand's first cabaret performance in 48 years. The extraordinary event coincided with release of her Number One charting album Love Is The Answer last September which became the 51st Gold Record for the legendary singer who also has 30 Platinum. That top-of-the-charts launch for the leading album-selling female recording artist of all time (as noted by the RIAA) extended to five her record number of consecutive decades with a #1 charting. The new One Night Only CD will be a limited edition available only in the DVD/CD Combo Pack.
Ms. Streisand topped the DVD charts for three weeks in 2009, reigning for that period at number one with her three disc Streisand The Concerts. Her two disc Director's Extended Edition of Yentl was one of the top motion picture DVD offerings of last year.
An absorbing dream-come-true you-are-there high definition audio-visual document of Streisand's first cabaret performance in 48 years, One Night Only - Barbra Streisand and Quartet at the Village Vanguard - September 26, 2009 immerses the home viewer in a tiny West Village nightclub, privy to the best sight lines and sound imaginable, to share an exclusive and intimate evening that prompted the New York Times to marvel, "Concerts by Ms. Streisand are rare, but the scale of Saturday's show was exceptional enough to briefly upend the natural social order of celebrity events... Ms. Streisand was booked for one night at the Vanguard — legal capacity 123, absurdly small for an artist who has sold over 71 million albums in the United States alone... But outnumbering the boldface names were two busloads of ticket-lottery winners, ordinary fans from around the world. Some said they had never been able to afford a Streisand ticket before, but on this night they rubbed elbows with Oscar winners, The Secretary Of State and a former president..."
Songs on One Night Only - Barbra Streisand and Quartet at the Village Vanguard - September 26, 2009 include "Here's To Life," "In The Wee Small Hours of the Morning," "Gentle Rain," "Spring Can Really Hang You Up the Most," "If You Go Away (Ne Me Quitte Pas)," "Where Do You Start?," "Nobody's Heart (Belongs to Me), "Make Someone Happy," "My Funny Valentine," "Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered," "Evergreen (Love Theme from A Star Is Born)," "Some Other Time," and "The Way We Were." The DVD and Blu-ray disc include as a bonus, a feature on the club and its legendary owner Lorraine Gordon.
One Night Only - Barbra Streisand and Quartet at the Village Vanguard - September 26, 2009 is Executive Produced by Barbra Streisand and Martin Erlichman.
Barbra Streisand's Village Vanguard performance was originally booked to celebrate the release of Love Is The Answer, the artist's album of jazz standards hearkening back to her musical roots in New York cabaret. Released the week of the Village Vanguard show, Love Is The Answer became her ninth #1 album on the Billboard 200 and her 51st RIAA gold album in the US.
One Night Only - Barbra Streisand and Quartet at the Village Vanguard - September 26 is now available for pre-order on barbrastreisand.com.
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