Association Publishing Magazine Features Composer and Filmmaker Stuart Meyer in September/October 2009 Issue

My advance apologies for the dreadfully ego-centric sounding headline above.  I simply wanted to make sure this posting was optimized for search engine results… or “SEO” as it is called… which translates into posting views and insures that this story might reach a wider audience.

As many of you know, I’ve spent the second half of this year making the transition toward living and sustaining my life purpose.  This wonderful article, written by the very talented Carla Kalogeridis, provides a deeper perspective on how I am working to translate my humbling gifts and talents into my daily vocation as composer, filmmaker and not-for-profit social media consultant.

Earlier this year, as a step along this journey, I voluntarily composed a theme song (click here to listen) for the Association Forum to be used as a source of motivation for all the not-for-profit association professionals out there who have weathered a very difficult year.  The title of the theme song is “Go the Distance” which pretty much says it all to anyone from any walk of life who has endured this year of economic heartbreak and setbacks.

Within the past couple of months, I was contacted by Association Publishing Magazine about their interest in writing an article about the story behind this piece of music.  If you click here you can read the full article.

As the journey continues, I also invite you to support my current documentary film project, Imprévu – The Kenneth von Heidecke Story, which is an inspiring story about a blue-collar Midwestern kid from Chicago who faces unimaginable triumph and tragedy in pursuing professional and international acclaim in the world of ballet.

When I first met Ken, I knew this was a powerful story that had to be told in a way that is as uniquely creative and as beautifully artistic as his life.  This film will not be your typical documentary, but rather an emotive and inspiring cinematic journey that well leave audiences reflecting, and hopefully acting upon their own inexhaustible purpose and calling in life.

Please join the official Imprévu film group on Facebook by clicking here where you can read our production diary dating back to 2008, listen to clips of film music I’ve composed and see our growing collection of production photos. I also welcome you to spread the word.

6 Tips for Discovering and Living Your Unique Purpose

My own road in life has been a twisting journey of purpose with each day offering the possibility of a new piece of the puzzle being revealed.  As I’ve written recently, there are many out there within our Naperville community and beyond who have felt the crush of our nation’s economic collapse over the past year.  Despite the tough times, in many ways the slowdown may very well provide the perfect conditions to connect/re-connect withyour own unique purpose in life. 

We all have a unique purpose within our heart and soul which I believe keeps tapping us on the back throughout our lives despite the free will we exercise in attempting to make what we believe are the best decisions for ourselves in “the moment”. 

As I’ve said, it doesn’t matter the size of stage or economic reward attached, it’s all about finding true meaning and fulfillment in life.  Even better, in taking the journey down your own path of your uniquely prescribed purpose, you might just discover that all of those material trappings aren’t quite as important as they once seemed.  Inspired and inspiring lives emerge not from the material of the world, but rather the material of the soul.  Further, always remember that money is merely a measure of survival, not purpose.  

To help you on your way, below are 6 tips I’ve used to guide my way along my own path of purpose in life:

1)  Throughout your life, what interests/experiences have consistently filled your heart with a joy and happiness that is unique to  you and you alone?

2) What do you enjoy doing so much that the constraint of time seems to slip away, yet it still feels effortless and energizing?

3) If you could help others in a way that is your own unique contribution measured not by external recognition/validation but only by internal reward and satisfaction, how would you do so?   

4) Once the answers to the first three questions begin to emerge yielding an internal sense of truth, try to connect with at least one other person outside of your immediate life who can understand and relate ot your purpose.

5)  Focus your energy on the “what” not the “how” so as not to construct a wall of self-adversity.  An act of purpose could be something as simple as sharing it with someone else. 

6)  Write in a journal as often as possible specifically about the many elements, possibilities and dimensions of your purpose.  Don’t hold back, on paper anything is possible. 

Though I have many more ideas, experiences and thoughts on the subject of purpose, this should help you get started.  In the meantime, perhaps a first step for you might be sharing your thoughts here in the form of a comment.   So what are you waiting for?  SM

International Artists Headline Naperville’s Von Heidecke School of the Chicago Festival Ballet Benefit on Sunday, October 12th

In the coming weeks and months you will begin to hear allot more about an exciting project I am working on with Naperville’s own Kenneth von Heidecke.  What many people may not know is that in addition to building his Von Heidecke School of the Chicago Festival Ballet in Naperville, he has long been honored as an internationally renowned figure in the ballet world. 

The Von Heidecke School of Ballet is holding a  very special benefit this Sunday, October 12th at the Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet from 3:00 – 5:00 PM.  You have the opportunity to witness up close an array of national and international professional opera, dance and musical talent, including:

Viktoria Vizin, Hungarian Mezzo-Soprano who sang Carmen at the Lyric Opera, Royal Opera and will be debuting at the Metropolitan Opera this season.

David Yonan, German Concert violinist about to embark upon a world tour playing Paganinni.

Christine Steyer, Recently awarded the Founders Award at the IX Altamura Caruso International Voice Competition and 1st place at the National Opera Association Competition.

Elise Paschen, Celebrated writer/poet and daughter of legendary Primar Ballerina, Maria Tallchief.

Valerie Maze, The Lyric Opera’s Pianist who has worked with numerous national and international operas.

Teanna Zarro & Matthew Frain, Performing the pas de deux from Prokofiev’s Romeo & Juliet as choreographed by Kenneth von Heidecke.

String Trio, Providing background and chamber music.

You won’t want to miss this rare opportunity to experience world class performances while at the same time supporting an important Naperville arts institution.  I will be there and I hope to you see you there too.

For more information, CLICK HERE SM

Unraveling the Marginalization and Fragmentation of Community Participation and Purpose

Though I will concede the headline sounds a bit deep, the focus of this posting is not all the good things and many good people who advance communities.  This posting is about the loss of participation, the untapped potential and unrealization of human purpose within communities all across this country and throughout the world. 

Simply put, the question is why is it that human intelligence and talent abounds all around us, yet so few actually step forward to either share their gifts or perhaps even realize their potential as they reside within our communities.  John Lennon said that ”life is what happens when you are busy making other plans”.  Chances are, when we began building our lives our vision was far grander, more ambitious and passionate than where we find ourselves in present day. 

What happens?  Well, life happens and unfortunately our communities have been traditionally ill-equipped to broadly harvest the unique talents firmly rooted all around us.  Social institutions designed to facilitate the cohesion of poeple often become exclusive, fragmented and small in number compared to the overall population. 

Perhaps more tragic is the reality that, for many, the “dream” grows dim somewhere along the way as demands and responsibilities mount.  However, I believe the greatest harm we can do to ourselves in life is to turn our backs on our passion, our potential and our purpose in life. 

When factoring the constraints of traditional social institutions combined with the draining demands of daily life, it’s no wonder that so many are living a marginalized life, absent the exercise of internal purpose and diminished contribution to community… the true secret to real happiness. 

Despite these realities, I see a very bright future for all of us as we begin to turn the spotlight on the hidden treasures within us all as we find ways to live our purpose, to whatever degree we can, and to donate our time and talents for the benefit of ourselves as well as others.  I challenge each of you to internalize your own sense of purpose and find a way, no matter how great or small, to share your talents with our community.

Omnia arts project once again proves all Naperville politics are local and that the safety of anonymity brings out the worst in people

First, I want to applaud Bev Frier on what appears to be a big vision for having the arts take a larger center stage here in Naperville.  Like so many, I’ve only heard minor details and innuendo regarding the project, yet at least we are talking about the future potential of the arts within our community.  Time will be the judge as to whether it is the best time, project and location for Naperville.

I’ve been reading with great interest and disgust the Naperville Potluck Blog postings regarding the political maneuvering and, perhaps, naivity swirling around us these days.  It’s at least nice that people are yelling and screaming about something other than land acquisition for new high schools.  At the same time, anonymous behavior on blogs, such as the potluck, tends to bring out the worst in people and ends up making our community look regretably stupid for the most part.  There is a clear difference between a healthy and respectful debate of our collectively shared community interests and divisive inflammation of the keyboard.  The answer is live face-to-face community dialogue and I do hope that it happens soon. 

If Bev Frier had a true political agenda which transcends her stated altruistic intent, then I believe she would have played her cards much differently.  Is it the best location and project?  I guess we’ll know in time.

The one lesson I believe we are reminded of as a community is if you intend for a visionary large-scale project to become a cherished community treasure for present and future generations to enjoy then you should build the vision with the involvement and participation of those you intend to influence in obtaining support from the very beginning.  

Any form of change is, by nature, sticky business and it can only succeed through an evolutionary inclusive process of participation and well-rounded perspective.  We must examine the full picture and people must have an opportunity to invest themselves in making the determination as to what is in the best interest of our community.  SM 

Cape Cod Visit and “Best Place” Ranking Has Me Thinking About Naperville’s Own Future

Over the past couple of years, I’ve written quite a bit about my own personal fears regarding Naperville’s future and whether or not our uniqueness and charm can be maintained.  Given our recent “best place” ranking for 2008 dropping in the near vicinity of a weeklong vacation to Cape Cod, MA, I’ve had allot to think about.

Our journey took us up into the tip of Cape Cod into North Truro, just minutes outside of Provincetown.  Aside from being a wonderfully colorful place, Provincetown is best know historically for being the first landing point for the Pilgrims dating back into the 1600s.  They remained in the area for five weeks prior to moving further inland in search of a more suitable terrain in which to settle. 

Today, Provincetown is a creative and open-minded mecca for artists, accepting of all people and a carefully preserved historic landmark watched over by the highly visible Pilgrim Monument (pictured above).  Aside from a strong art vibe and plenty of interesting people, the biggest aspect I appreciated about Provincetown was the absolute lack of any form of commercialized business or national chains.  Commercial and Bradford Streets, the epicenter of activity, is lined with endless art galleries, local theaters, music venues, bars, independent restaurants, candy shops, indulgent ice cream shops, unique one-of-a-kind shops and more which can all be accessed by foot.  Given the combination of “high brow” and ”low brow” experiences, any air of pretension was lost in the coastal night air.

Provincetown is one-of-a-kind and could never be easily duplicated.  Additionally, there is a truly authentic sense of place and history.  Entreprenuership and small business rules local commerce and greenspace, including the national seashore, is abundant. 

Given all the discussion and debate I’ve heard about Naperville’s own future, including concerns from others ranging from local business leaders to residents, our greatest fear is the loss of our own uniqueness to the almighty dollar. 

We must expand our creative and innovative investment in our community and protect our downtown and other areas from becoming overly commercialized. 

We must foster a strong arts collaboration, not competition, through public and private support remembering that any art event promotes the arts community as a whole. 

We must expand public-private partnerships to foster entrepreneurship and originality, not to clear the way for national chain stores and restaurants to saturate the our downtown. 

We must create a multitude of activities downtown to create more options after dark to merge with the current nightlife. 

We must avoid the exploitation of greedy self-interest and keep the skyrocketing prices of housing and commercial space downtown to make room for all who dream of living or building new business concepts in downtown. 

We must continue to preserve and enhance our green space which has made one of the biggest differences in our community. 

We must value the richness of culture which resides in our community and continue cultivating a more metropolitian attitude driven by appreciation, understanding and acceptance for each other.  

We must also continue to give back to our world which has given us all so much in life.   

Finally, we must never forget that “community” should not be the control of the few but rather the resolve and cooperation of the many.  Let’s work together Naperville to build an even stronger future!  SM 

Naperville’s Magical Starlight Theatre Production of Bye Bye Birdie Has Me Thinking About My Little-Known Acting Background

I will be the first of confess I was somewhat of a community theatre groupie when I was a kid.  During the summers, the Youth Theatre of Hardin County staged a different musical production with a cast ranging from kids to high school seniors.  Looking back, a big regret of mine is the fact I consistently chose little league baseball over participating in Youth Theatre. 

As a matter of fact, my acting debut in elementary school became my final stage call at the tender age of eight in which I was selected to portray the role of Frederick in our school production of Hansel and Gretel.  After spending what seemed like days, our maybe it was hours, perfecting my single line I took to the stage for opening night, which ironically was also closing night.  I stood proud and poised in the bright stage lights with my designer german costume, a Jane Meyer original (my mom), and heartily boasted in the heaviest thesbian tone which could be conjured up by a third grader “Sausages? Mmmm, I can almost taste them now“.   Once the stagehands cleared the shower of roses from the stage to preserve the safety of the other actors and the seemingly endless standing ovations subsided, I relinquished the stage to the principal actors and the production was able to proceed.   

Despite this pint-size artistic misdirection of my youth, my sister was a devoted cast member for five summers which meant I attended nearly every show and matinee as they acted and sang their way through the summer season.  One of the perks was also tagging along as the little brother to the cast after-parties which typically consisted of a late night second dinner consisting of the epic “J-boy” burger at Jerry’s Restaurant.  At the end of the summer season, I also enjoyed the big wrap party with a DJ playing new releases from bands ranging from The Human League to Men at Work.  

In my sister’s final season I finally committed to working on the backstage crew for their production of Guys and Dolls but that is about as close as I came to the actor’s stage.  Nonetheless, given my deep love for the arts as well as my own music/film pursuits, I do enjoy live stage productions whenever the opportunity arises.

Friday night was one such opportunity as not only did we finally attend opening night of the Magical Starlight Theatre’s production of Bye Bye Birdie, but we also decided to take along our six year-old for his first big musical stage production.

It was only fitting that we would see Bye Bye Birdie as the summer the Youth Theatre of Hardin County performed Bye Bye Birdie back in 1980-something, both my brother and sister were part of the cast. 

With much shame it is important that I fully disclose the embarassing fact that this was our first Magical Starlight Theatre production after procrastinating and talking about becoming regular patrons for years. 

We arrived late at just around the time the show was to begin.  We took our seats in the Naperville Central Auditorium which was about three-fourths full.  My six year-old was buzzing with anticipation.   The lights went down, a screen illuminated on stage with some b-roll Conrad Birdie footage as well as other members of the cast.  Suddenly, a cascading wave of screeching screaming girls came running down both sides of the aisle as if Sanjaya himself had taken the stage.  We then heard our first chorus of the repetitively familiar anthem…”We love you Conrad, oh yes we do…. we love you Conrad and we’ll be true….”.  

From there, the production came to life and I must say that we truly enjoyed the wide age-range of the cast not to speak of the many bright spots of local talent we witnessed.  The whole cast did a wonderful job and I couldn’t help but be thrilled for the younger cast members cutting their teeth on the stage and acting their hearts out.  The orchestra down in the pit were also great in terms of giving everyone that familiar flavor of the Broadway stage.  (to view the entire cast list, click here  http://www.magicalstarlight.com/birdiecast.php).

Being a backstage crew veteran of one season with Youth Theatre and a fond lover of set design, I was extremely impressed with the complexity and quality of sets which were utilized.  It really makes a difference in community theatre.  If you have been putting off experiencing a Magical Starlight Theatre production, I encourage you make plans.      

The community arts are truly a magical treasure for everyone involved and I look forward to many productions in the future.  Best of all, I’m happy to report that I think my six year-old may have gotten the acting bug as result of this performance.  

To learn more about the Magical Starlight Theatre, visit www.magicalstarlight.com  SM

   

  

Naperville Independent Film Festival Already Has Me Looking Ahead to 2008

Though the sound of holiday music echoes around our “downtown” illuminated Christmas Village over on the bookshelf, my thoughts this evening are on the brand new Naperville Independent Film Festival which will take place in September of next year (www.naperfilm.org).

Having been involved in the independent film world for a quite a few years now, I naturally have been pretty excited about the developments surrounding the festival.  Yesterday, I had the opportunity to sit down with one of the key organizers, Gary Pradel, at Fontanos for lunch to learn more about the festival’s origin and philosophy.

I’m sure many of you know Gary, but for those who don’t he is yet another glowing example of Naperville’s brightly shinning spirit.  During our conversation, he elaborated on the festival’s vision which is to draw anyone who is interested not only in viewing some great indie films but also to learn more about the filmmaking process and meet others involved in the indie film community.  He draws upon his lifelong interest and love for technology, filmmaking and the arts in wanting others to not only get a first glance at independent film up close but also to get a “hands on” opportunity which hopefully will inspire others to get involved in filmmaking. 

We both agree there is tremendous future potential for bringing the Naperville arts community together in expanding the unique opportunities and resulting economic benefits of the arts.  As I’ve discussed in past postings, the diversification and regular presence of unique arts experiences is a key not only to Naperville’s next great chapter, but also a key driver in local workforce and economic development not to speak of the overall economic impact of arts dollars.

The World of Naperville wants to thank all involved for their vision in bringing this exciting new Naperville event to life.

Festival Committee 
Gary Pradel – Gary@NaperFilm.org
Edmond Coisson – Edmond@NaperFilm.org
Glessna Coisson – Glessna@NaperFilm.org
Daniel Nigg – DNIGG@aol.com
Sara Snyder – ssnyder@mcelroyassociates.net
Jocelyn Donkin – Jocelyn@NaperFilm.org
Susan Biggs – sbiggs1765@wowway.com
Mary Jo Brown – MJBrown@NaperFilm.org

Advisory Committee

Mary Ann Boboski
Jim Healy
Susan Hecht
Ray Kinney
Joe Lichter
Daniel Nigg
Deborah Venezia
Mary Lou Wehrli

Current Sponsors (as of 12/11/07)

Design Resource Center
City Club
Emphasis Entertainment
First National Bank of Naperville
Goldstine, Skrodzki, Russian,
   Nemec, and Hoff, Ltd.
Jilly’s Restaurant
Lenzcap.com
McElroy Associates
Nigg Media
Our Path Productions, Ltd
Wheatland Omnimedia   

If you are interested in learning more about the Naperville Independent Film Festival or submitting your work, visit www.naperfilm.org or send an email to info@naperfilm.org .  SM     

A Visionary Idea… The Naperville Boardwalk

As you might imagine or may have noticed if you are a regular visitor to the World of Naperville, I spend quite a bit of time thinking about the future of our community, especially downtown Naperville.   I’ve written numerous postings assessing my own thoughts on the keys to Naperville’s allure on both a conscious and subconscious level.  I hope to one day join Naperville’s many visionary leaders in helping shape the next great chapter in the Naperville experience.

For those who may have never glanced “behind the scenes” of a blog, I am able to see all web search terms which result in visits to the World of Naperville.  The other day, I noticed a web search for “Naperville Boardwalk” which generated a hit on my blog.  At first, I smiled and concluded they must have meant “Naperville Riverwalk”.  However, within a couple of seconds I was already thinking to myself…. hmmmm, Naperville Boardwalk.

I have a visionary idea to float.  Given the transformative re-development of the Water Street area bordering the DuPage River, envision for a moment a boardwalk which reaches out slightly over the DuPage river running along the new mixed-use commercial/residential development..  I see railing at the edge of the boardwalk which would allow an overlook upon the flowing DuPage River.  Strung lights could run the full length of the railing in which people could stroll and meander along at night providing an inviting aesthetic.  

This is where my vision mainly begins.  When we think about how the Riverwalk and river almost seem to disappear at night, why not use the area as focal point backdrop bringing the river alive at night as well during the day.  I see rotating artisan kiosks and specialty food vendors drawing people of all ages to mingle along the Boardwalk.  In the evenings, I see families remaining around downtown having dinner and enjoying special performers entertaining as people congregate along the Naperville Boardwalk.  Couples of all ages taking in the warmth and ambiance. 

Magicians, jugglers, musicians, historical actors playing famous Napervillians from the past and other unique performers captivating and engaging the crowd of all ages.  Perhaps a small stage provides a place for special performances with the beauty of the Riverwalk and downtown as the backdrop.  Special events for all seasons to provide special experiences/traditions to draw people into the area throughout the year.  Perhaps free outdoor movies or even dancing from time-to-time.  How about a carousel which not only serves as a magnet for kids but provides a timeless atmosphere adding to the sights and sounds.

The Naperville Boardwalk could join the many other alluring downtown icons and reach new demographics who will now have a new reason to remain downtown well into the evening.  An alternative to the bar scene for families and people of all ages to enjoy.  Even more, a cherished feature which would continue to expand the unique divide between Naperville and neighborhing communities trying to match our own brand of downtown magic.

How would it be paid for?  Multiple sources of funding could factor into the development, maintenance and management of the area.  It could be a truly cooperative effort between the developer, beneficiary businesses in the development, the Riverwalk Commission, the City of Naperville, the Downtown Naperville Alliance, Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce, SECA funds, corporate sponsorships, patrons, local arts organizations, local civic organizations, revenue-sharing from temporary non-competing artisans/vendors, residential volunteers and more. 

What are the precedents?  In my mind, I think of the ever-popular Boardwalk area of the Walt Disney World Resort… Downtown Disney and the Marketplace…. I think Navy Pier… I think of the famous Boardwalks of the East Coast… places to experience and to escape… a magical place where great “moments” take place and lifelong memories are formed… a gathering point which brings the community and visitors together to slow down for a bit.  A crossroads for our community.  A place where visitors can’t help but tell others about through word-of-mouth marketing.  Who benefits?  In a nutshell, everyone. 

I invite my readers to share your thoughts and/or build upon this idea in the comments section.  Let’s see where this dialouge goes.  SM        

What Naperville Can Learn from the Oklahoma Creativity Project

Over the past weekend, I had a chance to spend some time re-connecting with our family’s rapidly expanding friends from Oklahoma.  As you may have read, my wife just completed a seven-week project for the State of Oklahoma in managing the “Oklahoma Experience” at the 2007 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival.  Needless to say, Oklahoma has truly carved out a special place within our hearts.

On Saturday evening, I had a chance to catch up with Mark Robertson, who I’ve had the distinct pleasure of knowing since my days at the American Bar Association.  Mark is an Oklahoma-based lawyer who, in addition to his own busy law practice and wonderful family, is deeply involved in the exciting renaissance which is occuring within a state which may lack exposure but more than makes up for it in terms of energy, vision, hospitality and spirit.  In many ways, I consider Mark to be a kindred-spirit given our energy, philosophy, vission and ideas for the worlds we live in.

Among his leadership roles within Oklahoma, Mark serves on the Board of Directors of the 2008 Oklahoma Creativity Project (www.stateofcreativity.com).  This innovative project is a collaborative effort of leaders, communities and organizations throughout Oklahoma designed to promote the powerful role of creativity and innovation in the future success and prosperity of the state as a whole.   The following overview of vision, mission and goals for the Oklahoma Creativity Project best illustrates the impetus behind their efforts: 

VISION 

“To flourish in its second century, Oklahoma must promote new opportunities for creativity and innovation at all levels – in education, in government, in the workplace, and in the daily lives of its people. Our vision is to enable all existing and would-be Oklahomans to add value to their lives, for their own well-being and for the economic and cultural prosperity of Oklahoma as a whole.”

MISSION

To establish Oklahoma as a world-renowned center of creativity and innovation in commerce, culture, and education.

GOALS

To empower all Oklahomans to develop their capacities for creativity and innovation.

To facilitate the growth of an entrepreneurial economy that will stimulate new careers, companies and industries.

To facilitate the further development of world-class cultural and educational opportunities.

 .   .   .   .   .

The State of Oklahoma is in the process of showing the world, with their statehood centennial as a backdrop, that a powerful and transformative renaissance can be trigged by a collaborative community of people devoted toward innovation and creativity regardless of size or geographic location.  I have great respect and admiration for Oklahoma’s future roadmap.  As I’ve discussed in past postings, the payoff of such an investment is rooted in social, cultural, educational and economic advancement.  

Let’s all remember, as Mark pointed out this weekend, the Italian Renaissance which kicked off the great Renaissance in Eurpoe began in Florence, Italy, which at the time had a population of only 60,000.  Compare that to Naperville’s modern-day population of roughly 140,000. 

The difference between community success or failure is rooted in how well people come together to work in partnership in battling the complacency that threatens to blind us from our creativity, vision and goals for the future.  There is much for Naperville to gain from the pride, devotion and vision Oklahoma has put forth.    

To our friends in Oklahoma… congratulations on the past 100 years and here’s to the next exciting 100 years… the World is watching.  SM