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Old Earth Concert---DaveH (Storyteller), and guitarists--Chris Porterfield, Dietrich Gosser, Todd Umhoefer

5/21/2014

It was a magical night at Inspiration Studios. Storytelling by DaveH led to beautiful, sometimes haunting, music of three great gutiarists: Dietrich Gosser, Chris Porterfield and Old Earth (Todd Umhoefer). I walked in from a performance at another theatre just in time to treat my senses to the sounds of Chris and Todd. The candle-lit tables and Angie Zimmerman's dimly-lit photo exhibit provided a sense of calm to this cabaret setting. Complimentary wine, transformed the space into a low-key, yet spirited night club. WIth over 60 people in attendance, the audience was mesmerized by what they heard--every string, every piano key, every whisper of song. This proved to be the perfect setting for a night of lovely entertainment. It was a very proud moment indeed. -Erico

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It's time for a concert.... cabaret style!

5/17/2014

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Milwaukee Record's inspirational article about IS

5/15/2014

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The Old Earth concert has certainly sparked more interest in Inspiration Studios. I was contacted on Monday by Milwaukee Record, the newest online news source, to see if I would be interested in an interview regarding the transformaiton of the funeral home into Inspiration Studios. What was expected by Tyler Maas to be a 20-minute interview became 60 minutes. The resulting article truly captures the story behind Inspiration Studios. It can be viewed here: "Inspiration Studios Breathes Life Into West Allis Arts"

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Life at Inspiration Studios

5/9/2014

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There has been a whirlwind of activity at Inspiration Studios. Yesterday was the best example of that. With an art exhibit opening this weekend, a concert next weekend, and the upcoming Original One-Act Festival, it seemed Thursday was the day for many groups to meet at Inspiration Studios to get things done.

Platforms and flats were moved from the theatre into the storage garage
Sorcerer's Apprentice set pieces moved from the upper green room into the basement
Piano was tested and moved into place for the OLD EARTH concert next week
Masking panels and suitcase props were put into place for the concert
Todd Mrozinski's paintings were taken down and secured to allow for the next installation
Rehearsal for COMPATIBLE took place in the downstairs rehearsal room
Rehearsal for THE DELIVERY took place in a side room
Rehearsal for TIME DOESN'T HEAL ALL WOUNDS in the upstairs apartment
Rehearsal for SHOOTING STARS in the theatre
Angie Zimmerman's art exhibit was hung in the gallery
Publicity Committee met outdoors in the parking lot---thankful for wonderful weather, finally!

The multitude of activities going on under one roof was impressive. It felt good to know that this dream, now a reality, was being used to its full potential. What started off as a day of set-up for the upcoming reception and concert turned into a whirlwind of activity involving many people with different levels of involvement. It was heartwarming.

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Erico Ortiz

Erico Ortiz was born in Cayey, Puerto Rico and was raised in Milwaukee. He earned his undergraduate degree at Marquette University (Spanish Education) and a Masters Degree from UW-Milwaukee (Administrative Leadership). After working for Milwaukee Public Schools (teacher, administrator) for 33 years, it was time for retirement and a new direction.
Erico has worked with several community theatre companies, both on stage and behind the scenes, something he still enjoys today, and is a board member of the Village Playhouse. He plays guitar and can be found Sunday mornings directing the Spanish choir at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Parish in Milwaukee.
Painting has become a passion since retirement in 2011, leading to the development of Erico's Gallery. Since then, he has delved into the arts world by becoming involved with Riverwest Artists Association and the Sheboygan Visual Artists. This latest venture, the purchase of an art gallery and performance space should prove to be exciting.

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Old Earth Concert---DaveH (Storyteller), and guitarists--Chris Porterfield, Dietrich Gosser, Todd Umhoefer

It's time for a concert.... cabaret style!

Milwaukee Record's inspirational article about IS

Life at Inspiration Studios

Erico Ortiz

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