Video, Photos, and Color from the Spoleto Finale at Middleton Place

[Scroll down to watch our Video and jump to our Photo Gallery]

Spoleto Finale goes off with a Bang
by Sabatino Covollo

So this must be what it means to go out with a bang! A brilliant fireworks display put the exclamation mark on the finale of the 33rd year of Spoleto in Charleston. Yes, the bitter sweet ending came Sunday night on the gorgeous grounds of Middleton Place. If you were not there for this event, do not despair; this article is designed to make you feel as if you were. Some of those in attendance mentioned other Spoleto events, such as the Ballet at Gailliard Auditorium and The Westminster Choir Cathedral Concert, as fabulous and rich performances, but the final event is always the crown jewel.

The Spoleto Festival Finale has evolved into the number one “must see” event of the entire 17 day festival, especially among Greater Charlestonians.

Many locals have made picnicking at the finale a family tradition even if they were unable to attend any of the other events. With the grandeur and beauty of Middleton Place, there can be no better setting to bring this year’s Spoleto extravaganza to a close.

With the Middleton Museum House set off on the right, and the orchestral tent to the left, the stage owned the center of the grounds. A definite buzz could be heard throughout the crowd by what and who would soon occupy the stage. The front half of the central grounds at Middleton Place was just large enough to hold all Spoleto enthusiasts. More of a picnic atmosphere than anything else, there was hardly a blade of grass left uncovered by lawn chair or cooler. Keeping properly hydrated was the only nemesis for those in attendance. To confront this problem head on, onlookers were well equipped with Mojito gallon jugs, open zinfandel bottles, and coolers filled with an assortment of icy pick me ups.

While people streamed onto the grounds throughout the afternoon, many continued joining the huge crowd well after 8:30, presumably to arrive just in time for the fireworks show. The dress code Sunday night was not exactly strict, as paying guests wore t-shirts with sayings ranging from, “you ain’t gangsta” to “Commissioner of Spoleto cultural Enforcement.” No dress code, no problem. Many could be seen standing, sitting, and even relaxing on their knees, as the sun dipped below the trees.

Low branches bowing from the oaks provided tree-climbing opportunities for the youngsters, while older ones chose to throw Frisbees, chat about their favorite Spoleto moment of 2009, or inhale the breathtaking scenery of Middleton Place along the most pristine stretch of the historic Ashley River. However, all of that stopped once the musicians began to take the stage. They filed out of a tent set up stage right wearing white shirts and black pants. Once they were on stage it was too difficult to tell how many musicians were up there since so many were hidden behind cellos and harps.

Fittingly, at 8:30 pm, a very cool horse shaped cloud rose above the stage. Ah, now we can begin; queue the music. With violins on his left and horns on his right, the maestro commanded the center of the stage, seemingly puppeteering all the strings himself. The orchestra and music selections were very relaxed and the crowd grew in anticipation of something a bit wilder.

What were they waiting for? The fireworks, of course. By 9:20 pm the stars were in full force as the full moon seemed to rest on a flat topped cloud to enjoy the show (no kidding, see the photo below).  After the orchestra concluded and bowed to a series of ovations, sudden bursts of yellow and orange shot up into the humid air directly behind the stage, splashing the dark sky with purples, pinks, greens, reds and blues – an aerial rainbow row. The fireworks came in twos, then threes, then fours, then fives, and soon they were coming too fast to count. So much noise, so much popping, and so many oohs and ahhs from a crowd that probably had seldom watched pyrotechnics from such a close proximity to their launching pad. It was awesome. When the smoke cleared, every one in attendance gave a loud standing ovation as they eased their way towards the parking lot, hoping to out-jockey the next guy to Ashley River Road for the drive home. Despite crowds rising upwards of 5,000, all heading for one of two single lane exits, thanks to excellent crowd management, well trained parking lot attendants, and a very cheerful crowd, the exodus went as smoothly as the concert itself.

Spoleto 2009 ended with a barrage of music and fireworks that colorfully wrapped up the 17 day culture fest that is Greater Charleston’s Spoleto Festival USA. After all the wonderful highlights of 2009 Spoleto, the finale will surely be remembered by all in attendance. Now that this year’s event is in the books, Charleston residents can begin looking ahead to 2010, when they will get to Spoleto all over again.

Click Here to view our photo album from the event, and be sure to try the slideshow feature for full screen viewing! photos by Tristan Hilliard, Sharea Gordan, Michelle Ortega, Greg Ensign, and Amber Caparas.

Video short filmed by Kyle Hilliard and Tsukasa Sato, featuring Amber Caparas and Kyle Hilliard, edited by Kyle Hilliard for GreaterChaleston.com. If you’re in this video or the photos above please send us your name so we can add it here!

Beresford Hall… Beautiful!

Charleston offers an elegant, gated community on 750 acres with only 210 homesites, with fantastic amenities for fisherman, boaters, or sun worshipers. Situated on the banks of deep-water Beresford Creek, you will find “The Ruins”, a gathering place for residents to enjoy the edgeless pool, clubhouse with two kitchens, ice house to fill up your coolers, boat launch to enjoy the waterways surrounding Beresford and Martins creeks, and floating docks to fish, crab, or just dip your toes. Nature trails will beckon you for a morning walk and perhaps you’ll see one of the many beautiful birds that call the various parks and marsh grass home. Grand Oaks abound throughout Beresford Hall and tower majestically over all.   The development commands quality, custom-crafted low country homes and many include separate guest quarters in a detached carriage house. There are beautiful homesites currently available to begin building your dream home or, if you prefer, select one of the existing homes ready and waiting…just for you. Homesites range from mid $200’s for interior lots up to $1 million for a deep-water lot with dock. Home prices range from high $800’s to $2 million plus.

The “featured” home is located at 204 Royal Assembly Drive (click on address to view slideshow of home) and is an architectural delight from top to bottom; from inside and out. The builder, Coe Brier, has spared no expense in making this amazing house an amazing “home” for the buyer/s who prefer craftsmanship quality, intense creativity, and a quest for that elusive “WOW” factor.   You define a lifestyle that encompasses the beauty of nature in two words…Beresford Hall!  You define a house with breathtaking appeal…204 Royal Assembly Drive!

Contact the Ensign/Ostergard Team at Coldwell Banker United, Realtors in Mt. Pleasant today to view this special residence; Warren Ostergard at (843)364-8960 or Samantha Ensign at (843)860-8773.  

C & B Hardwood Floors

C & B Hardwood Floors

“Custom Hardwood Floors…Serving the Greater Charleston Area Since 1982″

Office: 843-821-0796     cell:  843-296-1101      fax: 843-832-6907

Specializing In: Wood Floors    Installation   Refinishing   Exotic Woods   Custom Floors   Inlays   Design  Repairs   Subfloor  Installation  Floor Sanding    Finishing & Staining

 

Call Us Today @ 843-821-0796…You’ll Be Glad You Did.

“We’re Here For You“

Car Seat Cutie

I’m not sure who sent me this photo, but every time I look at it, I smile and chuckle, because it is so very precious. Hope it makes you smile too!

Samantha Ensign, Publisher/GC.com

Sadie and Gracie Ensign

What can I say about our two little girls? Only that they are the sweetest, cutest, funniest, and NEEDIEST dogs we’ve ever had (always having had large dogs in the past). The last two sisters from the same litter of a Yorkie mama and a Silky papa, they are so very different in personalities and each with their own likes and dislikes. For example, Gracie, the runt of the litter, is actually the bravest; Sadie…not so brave. A leaf or feather on the ground will petrify her for minutes. She also thinks long and hard about how she will master steps before making any attempt. Gracie will take on anything and trots up steps like she is queen of the hill. Gracie is always ready for bedtime around 10:00pm and pitter-patters to bed voluntarily; Sadie…like a small child, never initiates a move toward their doggy condo. Sadie likes carrots, blueberries, etc. You put it in front of her…she’ll eat it; Gracie…sticks her nose up and thinks carrots are for rabbits only! Did I mention Gracie is 6lbs. and Sadie a whopping 9lbs.? They are definitely 15lbs. of FUN and give us TONS of love. Having them less than two years now, we can’t imagine our home without them in it!

Samantha Ensign, Publisher/GC.com

Chewie the Smuggler

Chewie, short for Chewbacca, came into our lives in March of this year. He is an affectionate, spunky little Yorkie-poo that has brought so much more joy and laughter than I ever could have expected. Having mostly large dogs in the past, I wasn’t quite ready for all the energy one of these little stinkers come equipped with. But with the quintessential puppy-dog eyes and adorable little whimper when he wants up on the couch with you, it’s hard to stay upset at him for too long for things like turning your shoes in to toys. Luckily he’s starting to learn what he can and can’t play with and loves to hide items in his crate for his nighttime entertainment. The neighborhood kids adore him as much as he adores playing with them and chasing the various birds near the lake. The lack of shedding is nice and he thoroughly enjoys getting brushed after his bath. If anyone is on the fence about which small breed to get, I would strongly recommend one of these little cuties!

Donald Trump Comb-Over Look

When Sadie shakes her head, she sometimes has a lion look because her hair flairs out. This time when she shook her head, the end result was a classic Donald Trump comb-over look. Do you also see the similarity? Pets really do bring such joy to life. Yes, they can be a pain-in-the-neck at times, but so can we humans!

Samantha Ensign, Publisher/GC.com

2009 Spoleto Festival Finale Goes off with a Bang

[Scroll down to watch our Video and jump to our Photo Gallery]

Spoleto Finale goes off with a Bang
by Sabatino Covollo

So this must be what it means to go out with a bang! A brilliant fireworks display put the exclamation mark on the finale of the 33rd year of Spoleto in Charleston. Yes, the bitter sweet ending came Sunday night on the gorgeous grounds of Middleton Place. If you were not there for this event, do not despair; this article is designed to make you feel as if you were. Some of those in attendance mentioned other Spoleto events, such as the Ballet at Gailliard Auditorium and The Westminster Choir Cathedral Concert, as fabulous and rich performances, but the final event is always the crown jewel. The Spoleto Festival Finale has evolved into the number one “must see” event of the entire 17 day festival, especially among Greater Charlestonians. Many locals have made picnicking at the finale a family tradition even if they were unable to attend any of the other events. With the grandeur and beauty of Middleton Place, there can be no better setting to bring this year’s Spoleto extravaganza to a close.

With the Middleton Museum House set off on the right, and the orchestral tent to the left, the stage owned the center of the grounds. A definite buzz could be heard throughout the crowd by what and who would soon occupy the stage. The front half of the central grounds at Middleton Place was just large enough to hold all Spoleto enthusiasts. More of a picnic atmosphere than anything else, there was hardly a blade of grass left uncovered by lawn chair or cooler.

Keeping properly hydrated was the only nemesis for those in attendance. To confront this problem head on, onlookers were well equipped with Mojito gallon jugs, open zinfandel bottles, and coolers filled with an assortment of icy pick me ups.

While people streamed onto the grounds throughout the afternoon, many continued joining the huge crowd well after 8:30, presumably to arrive just in time for the fireworks show. The dress code Sunday night was not exactly strict, as paying guests wore t-shirts with sayings ranging from, “you ain’t gangsta” to “Commissioner of Spoleto cultural Enforcement.” No dress code, no problem. Many could be seen standing, sitting, and even relaxing on their knees, as the sun dipped below the trees.

Low branches bowing from the oaks provided tree-climbing opportunities for the youngsters, while older ones chose to throw Frisbees, chat about their favorite Spoleto moment of 2009, or inhale the breathtaking scenery of Middleton Place along the most pristine stretch of the historic Ashley River. However, all of that stopped once the musicians began to take the stage. They filed out of a tent set up stage right wearing white shirts and black pants. Once they were on stage it was too difficult to tell how many musicians were up there since so many were hidden behind cellos and harps. Fittingly, at 8:30 pm, a very cool horse shaped cloud rose above the stage. Ah, now we can begin; queue the music.

With violins on his left and horns on his right, the maestro commanded the center of the stage, seemingly puppeteering all the strings himself. The orchestra and music selections were very relaxed and the crowd grew in anticipation of something a bit wilder. What were they waiting for? The fireworks, of course.

By 9:20 pm the stars were in full force as the full moon seemed to rest on a flat topped cloud to enjoy the show (no kidding, see the photo below). After the orchestra concluded and bowed to a series of ovations, sudden bursts of yellow and orange shot up into the humid air directly behind the stage, splashing the dark sky with purples, pinks, greens, reds and blues – an aerial rainbow row. The fireworks came in twos, then threes, then fours, then fives, and soon they were coming too fast to count. So much noise, so much popping, and so many oohs and ahhs from a crowd that probably had seldom watched pyrotechnics from such a close proximity to their launching pad. It was awesome. When the smoke cleared, every one in attendance gave a loud standing ovation as they eased their way towards the parking lot, hoping to out-jockey the next guy to Ashley River Road for the drive home.

Despite crowds rising upwards of 5,000, all heading for one of two single lane exits, thanks to excellent crowd management, well trained parking lot attendants, and a very cheerful crowd, the exodus went as smoothly as the concert itself.

Spoleto 2009 ended with a barrage of music and fireworks that colorfully wrapped up the 17 day culture fest that is Greater Charleston’s Spoleto Festival USA. After all the wonderful highlights of 2009 Spoleto, the finale will surely be remembered by all in attendance. Now that this year’s event is in the books, Charleston residents can begin looking ahead to 2010, when they will get to Spoleto all over again.

Click Here to view our photo album from the event, and be sure to try the slideshow feature for full screen viewing! photos by Tristan Hilliard, Sharea Gordan, Michelle Ortega, Greg Ensign, and Amber Caparas.

Video short filmed by Kyle Hilliard and Tsukasa Sato, featuring Amber Caparas and Kyle Hilliard, edited by Kyle Hilliard for GreaterChaleston.com. If you’re in this video or the photos above please send us your name so we can add it here!

Neil Jordan’s in Mt. Pleasant

The newest dining venue in Mt. Pleasant is housed in the new Market at Oakland Shopping Center off Hwy. 17 and just north of Hwy. 41. Neil Jordan’s is considered one of Charleston’s newest steak houses; serving the well respected Allen Brothers cuts. However, it is so much more as you will see by its variety of menu items, including delicious seafood fare. They also make their own mouth-watering desserts in-house, but you may need to get a “to-go” box and enjoy your sweets at home. Neil Jordan’s is open 7 days a week from 11:00am to Midnight. There is also a Saturday and Sunday brunch served and live music for your listening pleasure on Tuesday evenings. Happy Hour with special drink and appetizer prices from 4pm-7pm. Experience this dining delight sooner than later.

Three Dog Charleston Bakery

Monday To Saturdy: 10am – 6pm

Sunday: 12-5pm

843-937-9895

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