Sensory overload, maxed out

One of the more interesting challenges I face when writing this column is one that many of you face when trying to make a decision for stimulating night life: Where do I go?

With so many options, I, like you, try to find the stimulants that are going to appeal most to my senses. So this week I'd like to drop science on you with a little information that had my senses maxed out.

Last weekend, I hosted an event called The Trip aimed at those tired of going from nightclub to nightclub searching for the right vibe. The departure lounge was the A13 Mattress Factory and the entertainment was quite varied.

DJs Motomasa & Eve, along with house band Upstream & DJ Boombip, set the mood in the Asian decorated atmosphere, geishas included. Vocalist Julie Dexter added to the mix with her sultry soul sounds.

Video art by Fascia, Sara Hornbacher and Janet Biggs, alongside paintings by M. Roxanne Lowery and Robin Rezende and the expressive talents of the Kabuki Theatre, had the 1,300 guests getting their groove on.

If you're wondering what Kabuki Theatre is, you'll have the opportunity to witness its first full-scale production in Atlanta, Suzika's Dream, April 5 at eleven50.

In a conversation with Harmony Buje, artist-designer for the Alchemy House and Universal Culture Productions, the team that produces Kabuki Theatre, and their media representative Edward McNally, we all found it quite interesting that there seems to be a very strong focus in today's pop culture on Asian influences in music, religion and art. Many of those elements we discussed will be on display at their event. Sculptures will be provided by Sensua Gallery and paintings by Ling Zhang. DJ Swivel, Sharaab and Bryan Bazarte will provide the sounds alongside the volcanic drums of Zerotakio.

Let's talk about Atmosphere, the brainchild of Richard Zuber and John Dyer. Another multimedia extravaganza, which went down Friday night at eleven50, it featured a cabaret starring Bret Busch, video by Matthew Lopes of Level 3 productions and music by Lori Scacco.

I wasn't able to make it, but I've heard mixed reviews. Some loved it, others simply thought it was overkill.

As I look around at our art galleries, a few of the more popular ones are beginning to feel like nightclubs and meat markets. I'm not saying that's bad, but you have to wonder when the focus seemingly shifts from going to the gallery to look at and possibly purchase art to a place to get drunk because some people are too cheap to go buy their own brews.

I will say this: As easy as it is to find the negative aspects of productions, I'm at least happy that folks are trying new ideas that appeal to those who make up the new landscape of cultural diversity and want something more than the same ol' tired Friday or Saturday night experience at the latest spot of the minute.

That brings me to my next topic: As I look around at our art galleries, a few of the more popular ones are beginning to feel like nightclubs and meat markets. I'm not saying that's bad, but you have to wonder when the focus seemingly shifts from going to the gallery to look at and possibly purchase art to a place to get drunk because some people are too cheap to go buy their own brews.

What's your observation? How do you think the opening night social scene contributes to the seriousness of the arts in our city? Send me an e-mail with your thoughts.

I'm going to go catch up on some much-needed rest now. Holler at me if you see me out.

Hug a Dread.