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Happy Birthday Jason Gould!
Jason is doing well. He's an incredible artist. He's 38 now. He's made films, he writes music, and his drawings are wonderful. He's very gifted. Now he's designed an incredible set of cards that can be a book. They are called "straight woods" -- they're thoughts with drawings. For example, he drew a painting of a man's face with a tear like Picasso. It says, "The purity of sadness will never lead to madness. It made me cry." The rest of the interview with Barbra (currently published in the Jan. 3 issue of GLOBE) had some interesting tidbits about her. For instance: Q: What's a typical day in your life? Check out the recent Jason page I added to the site >> And, Happy Birthday, Jason!
On Doing More Concerts In her MEET THE FOCKERS interviews, Barbra told the Australian press about doing more concerts: "I would never do a concert tour again like I have done in the past because it took up too much energy singing 30 songs a night. When I did this little Kerry concert [with eight band members backing her] I said I'll do this but I can't get up off the floor. I can't walk around too much. I can't go up and down elevators. If I sit on a stool and sing, I can manage that."
Barbra in 2005 ... Barbra gave an interview (to a non-U.S. reporter) recently, and few interesting insights were revealed. The Yentl and Star Is Born DVDs will be released next year at Mother's Day. She confirmed the Barry Gibb album was in the works, as well as a Brazillian album, and possibly an album of songs from countries around the world, which was actually suggested to Barbra by one of the reporters. [UPDATE: I asked MGM about Yentl coming out in May 2005 and they said it is not true ... So, I'm just passing along what somebody told me. We'll all just have to be patient. What was it Yentl said? "Patience yields many good things." — Matt]
ALL NIGHT LONG Arrives on DVD
Barbra's 1981 picture, ALL NIGHT LONG, in which she plays soft-spoken and put-upon Cheryl Gibbons, made its DVD debut this week. The movie stars Gene Hackman, Diane Ladd, and a very young Dennis Quaid. Universal sent a preview copy to The Barbra Archives (thank you!) and the film looks wonderful on my widescreen TV. Over 20 years old, the print they used shows little wear and the colors (including Cheryl's lavender bedroom) look great.
The movie is an Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1 and Dolby Digital 2.0 Mono release running 1 hour and 28 minutes. There are no bonus materials. You can order the DVD from Amazon by clicking this link: All Night Long (DVD)
Barbra's Health OK Dick Guttman, Streisand's publicist, released the following statement regarding the tabloid rumors about Barbra's health: "During a routine colonoscopy earlier this year, Barbra Streisand's doctor discovered a benign polyp. The removal of the single polyp was done earlier this month, and its benign nature was reaffirmed. It did not delay her scheduled promotional activities for MEET THE FOCKERS."
Barbra Salutes Travolta Sunday Dec. 12th on USA Barbra will appear on the USA Network's broadcast of the Moving Image Museum salute to John Travolta. Taped on December 5th in New York, the show will air Sunday, December 12th. Barbra sent a taped message to John for the ceremony. LINK TO USA NETWORK >> * Thanks to Allison Waldman for the heads-up!
Barry & Barbra: Guilty
The Barbra Archives did some digging and found out Barry has been recording/laying tracks at Middle Ear Studio in Miami (where he lives). Barry has been working in the studio since October. An unofficial Gibb site says "Management at this point doesn't want to make any official announcements but unofficially I can already announce that Barry is indeed planning to work on a new album for Barbra Streisand which also is going to be produced by him."
Give the Gift of Streisand for the Holidays Need some gift ideas for that special friend who's a Streisand fan? Here are "The Barbra Archives" suggestions:
All of your purchases (when you click using the above links) at Amazon benefit this site! The Barbra Archives is an Amazon associate and gets a (very small) percentage of your totals. So, buy up!
Auction Items at Christies A few Streisand items are part of the Dec. 17th Christies Rock & Roll and Entertainment memorabilia auction. Click here to see the items >>
Brolins Attend Clinton Pres. Library Dedication
http://www.clintonpresidentialcenter.org
ON A CLEAR DAY on DVD Feb. 22 from Paramount
Neil and Barbra ... Together Again? Yes, yes, the BIG TOUR rumors were not true. However, "The Archives" has heard that the Neil Diamond/Barbra Streisand concert rumors may have a ring of truth ... It's possible Barbra and Neil will join concert-forces for a television special. So, although a multiple-city tour is out of the question, a couple of nights live at an East or West Coast venue may be possible, with the results to be aired on a cable station like ... HBO. ... STAY TUNED.
Barbra Helps Charity
All About Barbra #62 Gets New Cover
The gorgeous alternate from the TIMELESS sitting by Firooz Zahedi graces the new issue's cover. "The Barbra Archives" has recently joined the magazine as a contributor. Look for several excellent articles including the first-person accounts of winning Streisand auction items at the recent "Her Name Is Barbra" auction; an interview with Darren Julien; a Q&A with Lauren Frost; a fascinating account of LIVE AT THE FORUM by someone who was there (including pictures of the program and more); and all the latest news and photos. Here's AAB's web site link: http://allaboutbarbra.com
Caleigh Makes Page Six From today's Page Six: THERE'S more young love in Hollywood. Barbra Streisand's goddaughter , 15 — who's in the middle of recording an album and is also a part-time correspondent for "Extra!" — is said to be in heartthrob heaven with "Summerland" hunk Jesse McKinley, 17. The two went to dinner this week at Los Angeles eatery Koi where they joined Paris and Nicky Hilton. Now let's just hope she doesn't pick up the Hiltons' bad habits.
Photos from Wedding
Streisand & Diamond to Tour 2005? Both Billboard and Barbra Streisand's management have refuted the story which was printed on Wednesday. No tour with Neil Diamond. As previously reported here at the "Barbra Archives" and, today, more or less confirmed by Billboard, there *may* be another tour left in Ms. Streisand. Billboard confirmed that there is industry buzz that Streisand and Neil Diamond would co-headline a tour in 2005. Nothing is confirmed, and both camps did not speak to Billboard. "The Barbra Archives" thinks this is cool news, and cannot believe that any Streisand fan would not be excited at the prospect of seeing her live one more time. Well, nobody's confirmed anything yet .... but it's exciting, nonetheless.
ALL NIGHT LONG Universal Home Entertainment has announced the release of All Night Long on the 14th of December on Region 1 DVD. The disc will feature a 1.85:1 anamorphic transfer and Dolby Digital 5.1 sound, the only extra will be a trailer. You can order the DVD through Amazon by clicking the ad to the right >>
New Sony Streisand Package for Holidays
It will contain the two Christmas albums Barbra has recorded, and is due in November. The picture is an alternate from her TIMELESS photo sessions by Firooz Zahedi. Thanks to Lynne at All About Barbra for the info!
Those Tour Rumors Resurface There's some buzz (and "The Archives" has received some emails) that Barbra will tour in 2005. Consider this rumor only at this point. Why tour? Didn't Barbra retire in 2000 with those "final" concerts? Well, remember her 2003 MOVIE ALBUM interview with the BBC ... she said there that she would consider performing a smaller-scale concert with more affordable tickets. The days of the mammoth TIMELESS tour, however, are gone. Remember, too, that the MGM Grand (venue of her 1994 and 2000 concerts) seated 15,000. Her concert in Australia at the Sydney Stadium seated 35,000. So a "smaller" venue like the Kodak Theater in Los Angeles, for example, only seats 3,300. The Barbra Archives will keep its ear to the pavement on this story.
Animated Barbra
The premise of this episode was that Sigfried & Roy wanted to impress Barbra who then wanted to eat a rebel lobster (voiced by Danny DeVito) who was trying to escape with the help of the John Goodman's lion's daughter. There was a cute part where Barbra and the lobster fight. Thanks to Tom Rubeck for the report and screen captures!
Barbra Participates in Lucie Awards
Barbra is not attending the awards ceremony. However, Barbra will provide a special tribute in writing to be read at the awards. Willoughby shot the famous photos of Barbra and Elliott Gould in the Beverly Hills Hotel swimming pool.
"What Would Barbra Do?"
Heeb Magazine, subtitled "The New Jew Review, is a hip, young magazine publishing from the East Village in New York. Their online store features a T-shirt with a Hebraic take on the Christian slogan, "What Would Jesus Do?" Funny! EXTERNAL LINK TO HEEB STORE >>
Issue 62 of ALL ABOUT BARBRA
AAB has also sent me a preview of their interview with Lauren Frost — or mini-Barbra from the TIMELESS tour. AAB readers wrote their own questions to Lauren, which she answered in the new issue.....
Lauren also talks about her amazing friendship with Barbra and her time with the Timeless Tour in Australia. It really does give a unique insight into Barbra the artist and Barbra the person. The full interview appears in issue 62 of ALL ABOUT BARBRA - you can order it now visit www.allaboutbarbra.com for ordering prices & options etc.
Barbra & James & Caleigh Peters at the Emmys!
Barbra and James were the handsome couple at last night's Emmy Awards. James, nominated for his acting role in the Ronald Reagan miniseries, did not win, but was accompanied by Barbra to the award's show. Afterwards, they both attended Showtime's post-Emmy party.
Go to Extra's web site to view these videos. Make sure you check out the "Emmy Parties" section for the Caleigh and Barbra video!
Yahoo's Gallery of Barbra & James at Emmys >>
Barbra on WILL & GRACE? The cast of NBC's sitcom WILL & GRACE have been dropping the Streisand name lately. Rumor is that she may be considering a guest spot on the sitcom. NBC, by the way, owns Universal ... which is releasing MEET THE FOCKERS. So, publicity-wise, it would make sense. Wouldn't it be fun to see Barbra interact with the WILL & GRACE folks? She could do some self-deprecating humor and maybe, at the very end of the show, be forced to sing by Jack. Stay tuned ....
R.I.P. Fred Ebb Fred Ebb, of songwriting team Kander & Ebb, passed away. The team wrote "My Coloring Book", which Barbra recorded, "I Don't Care Much " and, of course, the FUNNY LADY score. Cabaret and Chicago were the musicals most associated with Ebb.
Sony/BMG Merger Barbra's manager, Marty Erlichman, was quoted in a recent Billboard story regarding Barbra and the merger of Columbia Records (Barbra's record label) and BMG:
* Thanks, Allison Waldman for sending the quote! Barbra + Bergmans + Rob Marshall = Ballroom? Thursday, 12-Aug-2004 11:30 PM From today's Theater Mania "Loose Lips" column (thank you, George Shubert & Chuck Wilson for the news tip!): Could Ballroom, the short-lived 1978 Michael Bennett-directed Broadway musical, finally be coming to the big screen? We hear that Chicago helmer Rob Marshall has had at least one conversation about the project with none other than...Barbra Streisand! If this sounds far-fetched, consider that La Streisand's dear pals Alan & Marilyn Bergman wrote the lyrics for the show (which starred Dorothy Loudon) and the TV movie that inspired it (which starred Maureen Stapleton). Billy Goldenberg wrote the music. >> Read a synopsis of the original Broadway show of Ballroom.
Barbra's Closet + Emmy Watch
ALL NIGHT LONG on DVD December 14th from Universal
Christmas Album Gets Legacy Re-Release
Barbra's original CHRISTMAS ALBUM gets a re-release on Aug. 24th from Columbia's Legacy label. Although the album cover art remains the same, it gets a slight revision on this reissue.
Barbra, ACTORS STUDIO ... Around the World Inside the Actors Studio makes its debut around the world this month and next. AUSTRALIA: July 25th. http://www.ovationchannel.com.au CANADA: August 22. www.bravo.ca Brazil: August 22. http://globosat.globo.com/multishow/
New Streisand 3-CD Pack from Columbia
To be released on July 13, Columbia has repackaged three Streisand CDs ("Funny Girl" soundtrack, "The Way We Were" studio album, and "A Star is Born" soundtrack). The disks have no new tracks. The set features a new package design.
Streisand Sings for Kerry updated: Saturday, 26-Jun-2004 8:17 AM
 
Barbra on the AFI Film Songs List #16: Evergreen #13: People #8: The Way We Were
Streisand Talks About Thursday's Concert 
In an exclusive quote to USA Today newspaper, Barbra said of Thursday night's concert for John Kerry:
"I'm working for John Kerry because I believe this is the most important election of our lifetime. In a climate of national and economic insecurity, we are looking for a leader with the intellect and courage to set this country back on the right course."
<< Barbra, on the way to Dustin Hoffman's Malibu home. Photo by Most Wanted/ZUMA.
Barbra in Clinton's Book
Barbra: What a Card!  Barbra's likeness has made it onto the Gay & Lesbian Task Force's "And Marriage For All" deck of playing cards, to debut at the July 19 Los Angeles Pride festival. Barbra appears on the four of diamonds and a quote from her recent Human Rights Campaign speech is included.
Other movers and shakers (and celebrities) involved with gay rights are included on the deck.
You can order directly from GLTF by clicking here.
Kerry Ticket Exchange
"Ok, Politics..."
Kerry Concert Cancelled
Streisand Auction Nets Thousands for Foundation
Busy Barbra Weekend 
Arthur in Palm Springs sent this email about Barbra's busy weekend:
"Barbra previewed the auction items late Tuesday night around 10PM when the Design Center Building was closed. The items are displayed inside a restaurant in the building. The only people around at that time were the restaurant owner, building manager and a few security people from the building. The building itself is known as the "Blue Whale", because it takes up several city blocks and is six floors high. It is a furniture design center with a few restuarants, one of them being the Astra West where the items are on display. Barbra arrived with Marty Erlichman and her dog, wearing a white hat that had a large visor-like front to it and on the sides (to hide her face). She stayed about two hours examing the items, re-arranging lighting and displays that she was unsatisfied with. She was there a while before she folded back the visor portion of her hat and one could really see her face. She questioned a few missing odds and ends (bows on dresses she remembered and the beautiful white beaded turban from Clear Day that goes with the gown). She tried on some of the hats she hadn't seen in years and decided to pull a couple from the auction to keep. I was also told Barbra personally has "reserves" on some of the gowns in the amount of $40,000.00 (so if they don't go for that amount or more they go back to her). Barbra has also personally signed ALL certificates of authenticity from the auction. So if you are lucky enough to win an item from the auction, you will also receive a Barbra Streisand autograph!!! ... Also while I was there Friday morning, Darren Julien pulled the concert chairs and tea tables from the Timeless and Concert shows because Barbra needed the items for the Kerry Concert on Monday. He was bringing them to Barbra's house where she was going to decide which concert stools and tea tables she would use Monday night. He said she doesn't have a concert stool (poor thing!)................ I also picked up my Kerry concert ticket today (* scan above courtesy of Arthur) - the letter with the ticket says the secret service has closed the underground parking garage under the arena that night, so all attendees have to park in other lots. The show will be starting later than the posted time due to the security concerns - curtain up at 8:30pm. Cell phones are allowed but have to be off, and of course no cameras, video equipment or sound recording will be allowed." Thanks so much, Arthur, for keeping all of us who couldn't be there in the Streisand-loop!
Streisand Tour Rumors
Official: Flowers For Kerry [Barbra Archives note: David Foster is arranging the duet and will be doing musical duty at the concert for Ms. Streisand...] Stars Take Center Stage at Kerry Fund-Raisers LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) - Artists are coming out in full force in support of Democratic presidential contender Sen. John Kerry.Two major concerts will be held next week -- one Monday in Los Angeles at the Walt Disney Concert Hall and one June 10 in New York at Radio City Music Hall -- to raise money for the campaign. The Los Angeles gala will feature performances by Barbra Streisand, Neil Diamond, Willie Nelson and Billy Crystal, while the New York show boasts Bette Midler, James Taylor, John Mellencamp, Jon Bon Jovi, Wyclef Jean, Robin Williams and Whoopi Goldberg."It's very ambitious. I don't think the artistic community has gotten together to raise this much money in one effort in my recollection," said Jann Wenner, editor and publisher of Rolling Stone, who is executive producing both events. "The artist community is united on this because of the kinds of values that the artist community shares and feels deeply are very threatened by the current administration. Kerry himself has been a longtime musician, a longtime fan of the arts, a longtime supporter of intellectuals' pursuits of civil liberties. These are all the things that this community depends on -- the freedom of expression, creative freedom. These are core concerns." Wenner first met Kerry in the 1970s, during the Vietnam era. Kerry, after serving in the Vietnam War, for which he received a Silver Star and three Purple Heart awards, co-founded the Vietnam Veterans of America and became a spokesman for Vietnam Veterans Against the War. The two rekindled their friendship when Kerry was elected to the United States Senate in 1984. Wenner also was behind a similar concert in 2002 -- in support of Al Gore's bid for the presidency -- which reportedly raised more than $6.5 million. It was then that Wenner promised to put on such a show for Kerry if he decided to run for president. The Los Angeles show also is being produced by Miramax co-chair Harvey Weinstein, Streisand's manager Marty Erlichman and special-event producer Ken Ehrlich. The host committee includes Rhea Perlman and Danny DeVito, Laurie and Larry David, Warren Beatty and Annette Bening, Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen, Dustin Hoffman, Ben Stiller, Robert De Niro, Leonardo DiCaprio, Ben Affleck and Rita Wilson. The concert also will mark the first time Streisand and Diamond have performed together in 24 years. The duo, who attended the same Brooklyn school, will perform their hit duet "You Don't Bring Me Flowers.""The idea for the Los Angeles show was really to present the American classics, the great big standards," Wenner says. "Willie, Billy, Barbra and Neil -- these are people who sing to the heartland of America." For the New York event, Wenner and Weinstein are working closely with John Sykes, chairman and CEO of Infinity Broadcasting System. The host committee includes Chevy Chase, Jimmy Fallon, Richard Gere, Jessica Lange and Uma Thurman. Darlene Love also will be on hand to do a surprise performance with Midler. Kerry will speak at both galas."We did very well with younger voters in the primaries but they will be a hard-fought battleground in the general election, so concerts such as these are an enormous asset to us," said Kerry campaign manager Mary Beth Cahill says. Reuters/Hollywood Reporter
Barbra Welcomes Dem Convention Chairman Barbra & Neil Sing for Kerry Tickets for the Los Angeles concert can be purchased by calling (310) 556-9172, extension 106. Streisand's publicist confirmed with the "Barbra Archives" that Barbra will perform only in Los Angeles. LINK TO AP STORY>>More Kerry Rumors Next week it will be announced, I am told, that Barbra Streisand and Neil Diamond will perform at one off-concert for John Kerry. The pair, who had a huge hit many generations ago with "You Don't Send Me Flowers," will be sending bouquets of cash Kerry's way on June 7 in Los Angeles. Streisand isn't likely to stop there. She performed for Al Gore in the 2000 presidential race and is expected to start pitching in all over the place later this year... Gore Talks BarbraWednesday, 05-May-2004 12:49 PM Al Gore has purchased the 24-hour Newsworld International channel from Vivendi Universal Entertainment. The former VP says he plans to turn it into a cable news network for young adults. "This is not going to be a liberal network, a Democratic network or a political network," Gore said at a news conference. "[It'll be] an independent voice in this industry." Rumored first guests include Barbra Streisand, Michael Moore and Janeane Garofalo. Original Article: www.tvguide.com
Kerry Campaign to Announce Barbra Kerry’s campaign will announce this week that Barbra Streisand will sing at a big fundraiser for the senator in Los Angeles scheduled for early June. Kerry aides are negotiating also to sign up comedian Billy Crystal and ’70s pop icon Neil Diamond for the fundraising extravaganza. Kerry’s coup means that he has won the Streisand sweepstakes over the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) and the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC), both of which were also vying for Barbra’s attentions. “She’s made it clear to DCCC and the DSCC that her focus is on the presidential campaign from now until the election,” said Margery Tabankin, executive director of the Streisand Foundation. more at www.thehill.com
The Barbra Shop Thursdays and Fridays 6-10 303 Arenas Road Palm Springs, Ca 92262 Saturdays- Sundays 12-5 contact: LPAPALAS@peoplepc.com
Barbra on Legrand Album Per Universal Music, Michel Legrand is working on a new album entitled "Entre elles et lui" ("Between their and him") and it will be a Duets Album with Barbra Streisand, Lara Fabian, Aretha Franklin. Could this be the rumored Streisand/Fabian duet we've heard about?Congrats to MOVIE ALBUM Review Winners Barbra to Sing for Kerry June 7 More on Oceans 12 Cameo Oceans 12 Rumors Resurface ...scooper 'Venkman' says he has heard that a secret new cast member of the sequel is Barbra Streisand. If there is any truth to this rumor, then The Archives thinks Barbra may have a short cameo. All About Barbra Issue 61 Tuesday, 20-Apr-2004
"Her Name Is Barbra" Auction Goes on the Road
Clear Day Looking Clearer in 2005 Streisand poised to sing for Kerry? Wednesday, 14-Apr-2004 By Jeannette Walls The source says that Streisand, who has made no secret of her contempt for the policies of the Bush administration, “is pulling out all the stops” and tapping her Hollywood friends and colleagues to pitch in to make it a huge event. “She was quite a generator of funds for Clinton, and she can do it again for Kerry,” says the source, who adds that the fundraiser planning is still “in the early stages — but it’s probably at her Malibu estate and probably for late spring.” Streisand’s rep couldn’t be reached for comment. Streisand Tour [Rumor]? Sunday, 11-Apr-2004 Special thanks to Canadian Silvio Palmieri for alerting "Barbra Archives" to this little tidbit: According to a leading Canadian newspaper, vocalist Béatrice Bonifassi (the singing voice of the Oscar-nominated animated film, The Triplettes of Belleville), is mulling over several offers. One of the jobs is "the first part of a tour of Barbra Streisand." More Dem Concert News Friday, 09-Apr-2004 Responding to the 02-April rumor about a concert at the Wang Center in Boston, Streisand's spokesman, Ken Sunshine, said: "Lots of people want her to do lots of things, but no decisions have been made yet. However, it's no secret that Barbra is a big supporter of John Kerry. So do stay tuned." Dem Concert Rumor Friday, 02-Apr-2004 We all know that Barbra Streisand loves the Democratic party. And Barbra will most likely be an active participant in this year's Presidential election. And that means that it's entirely possible she will sing in concert as a fundraiser for the Dem's. Well, there is a rumor that Barbra will sing at the Democratic National Convention, which will be held in Boston, Massachusetts, from July 26 to July 29. The rumor is Barbra will perform a concert at the Wang Center, Boston's big performing arts center. We'll see how this pans out. Barbra should certainly be done filming FOCKERS by then.
Barbra attends Kerry Fundraiser Barbra (and husband Jim Brolin) was one of the celebrity guests at last night's fundraising dinner for Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry. Held in Beverly Hills and hosted by supermarket tycoon Ron Burkle, guests were treated to a mini-concert by James Taylor and a standup introduction by Larry David, producer of Seinfeld and star of the HBO drama series Curb Your Enthusiasm. Babs breaks "Inside the Actors Studio" records Wednesday, 24-Mar-2004 (from TV Barn) BARBRA STREISAND RECORDS THE BIGGEST AUDIENCE EVER FOR BRAVO’S ‘INSIDE THE ACTORS STUDIO’ PREMIERE THE TWO-HOUR SPECIAL EPISODE ACHIEVES A PREMIERE’S BIGGEST NUMBERS IN THE 10-YEAR HISTORY OF ‘INSIDE THE ACTORS STUDIO,’ ATTRACTING MORE THAN ONE MILLION TOTAL VIEWERS 10TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON SHOWS AN INCREASE IN AUDIENCES 18-49 AND 25-54 AND A 71 PERCENT INCREASE IN HOUSEHOLD RATINGS New York, NY – March 23, 2004 – This past Sunday’s premiere of “Inside the Actors Studio: Barbra Streisand” garnered the highest ratings of any premiere episode in the 10-year history of Bravo’s signature series. The episode, which featured a rare two-hour conversation with the normally interview-shy actor-producer-singer-director, drew 1.14 million total viewers and a 1.36 household rating, both records for the series. Streisand’s appearance is a fitting highlight of “Inside the Actors Studio’s” 10th anniversary season, since host James Lipton has been pursuing her as a potential guest since the show’s inception. The March 21 telecast broke series records previously set by Harrison Ford’s appearance in August 2000 by 579,000 total viewers and 0.43 ratings points. During the 10th Anniversary season, “Inside the Actors Studio” has witnessed a growth in the younger audience demographics. Audience impressions in the 18-49 and 25-54 demographics are up by 40 percent and 30 percent respectively. The series has also generated a 71 percent increase in households. Julien Entertainment Streisand Auction: "Her Name is Barbra" - 400+ lots from her legendary career Thursday, 18-Mar-2004 Darren Julien, president of Julien Entertainment discussed the upcoming Streisand auction with The Barbra Archives. Over 400 of Barbra's personal career items will be sold this June in Los Angeles. Julien told me, "It will truly be the greatest sale of property from her career ever. The sale benefits her foundation 'The Streisand Foundation'. There will be more than 400 lots spanning her legendary career. The exhibition will take place May 31st-June 4th at Astra West in the Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood with the auction taking place June 5th." Fans (or potential buyers!) who want to take a gander at the items that will be auctioned can order the official catalog from Julien's web site: www.julienentertainment.com. Julien finished by telling me, "We will also have periodic updates with other exhibitions of the collection in other cities. I hope this helps and thank you for working with us to spread the word." Babs Remembers 'THE WAY' Fondly Thursday, 18-Mar-2004 In preparation for Sunday's Inside the Actor's Studio (IAS) show, the Daily News is running a story on Barbra. Read More >> Canadian IAS Viewers Thursday, 18-Mar-2004 The Canadian Bravo! network tells The Barbra Archives, "Unfortunately, Bravo! Canada currently does not own the rights to IAS:BARBRA STREISAND. Sorry." Although Bravo! Canada broadcasts IAS at 5pm on Sundays, they have not currently purchased the rights to air the Streisand episode. It's entirely possible that it will air in the future, however. Barbra on AFI 100 Songs TV Show Thursday, 11-Mar-2004 According to Variety's Army Archerd column: This is one show I won't miss -- June 22, 8-11 p.m. on CBS: "AFI's -- 100 Years -- 100 Songs". The countdown to the greatest songs in movies -- with clips to match -- will feature the following stars (already taped) commenting: Angela Lansbury, Barbra Streisand, Andy Williams, Carole Bayer Sager, Debbie Allen, Baz Luhrmann, Rob Marshall, Marvin Hamlisch, Burt Bacharach, Clay Aiken, Debbie Reynolds, Isaac Hayes, Tony Martin, Cyd Charisse, Alan and Marilyn Bergman, Betty Comden. And set to be on the show, Bette Midler, Celine Dion, Liza Minnelli, Paul Simon, Art Garfunkel. John Travolta hosts the show, exec produced and directed by Gary Smith with producers Dann Netter and Bob Gazzale. AFI's Jean Firstenberg sent out 1,500 ballots to industryites, musicians, crix, etc. to determine the list of 100. Lipton Previews Actor's Studio Show Tuesday, 09-Mar-2004 Host James Lipton previews his interview with Barbra Streisand (to air on March 21st on the Bravo cable channel). MORE >> Man Sues Streisand Over Alleged Unpaid Legal Fees Tuesday, 09-Mar-2004 "Alleged" is the key word here ... Barbra sets the record straight on her own website. (see "Truth Alert"). http://barbrastreisand.com
HRC Honors Barbra
Big Barbra Mention in Liz Smith Column Tuesday, 02-Mar-2004 'Nicky Arnstein is a gentleman, Mama. A gentleman fits in anyplace." "A sponge fits in anyplace." So went the exchange between Barbra Streisand and the late, great Kay Medford in "Funny Girl." STREISAND'S ADMIRATION for Bill Clinton hasn't wavered, despite that he is no longer president. Miss Streisand was a like a giddy school girl at a chichi dinner for California Democrat Sen. Barbara Boxer last week in Los Angeles (at the Pacific Palisades home of venture capitalist David Fisher). Bill Clinton, still wildly popular with Democrats, attended, and Barbra was starry-eyed, protective and affectionate with him. She was minus hubby James Brolin. Clinton was not accompanied by his wife, Hillary. One partygoer quipped, "Dare anyone ask, 'Where's James?' Are you kidding?" Besides being a bit frisky, Barbra was uncharacteristically co-operative and in great spirits with two photographers. Shutterbugs sometimes bug the star, who prefers, like most celebs, to put her best face forward. But these photographers signed hefty confidentiality agreements before being allowed to click. So Barbra posed freely. The ritzy affair was chaired by longtime Clinton friend and U.S. representative to the 54th General Assembly for the United Nations Sim Farar and his wife, Debra. They're known for getting the cash cows out to play and pay. This party raised $750,000 for Boxer, a record for a single-state senator's re-election effort. (She'll need it. As a 12-year politico veteran, she'll face off against Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's heavily endorsed mate, Bill Jones, for the California Senate.) To say that many in Hollywood miss Bill Clinton in the White House is an understatement. Before the dinner, folks had to be turned away at the more-than-capacity, $1,000-a- person reception at Larry David's French Normandy estate. People were swinging from the rafters for a spot in Clinton's limelight. Among the gawkers - songwriters Marilyn and Alan Bergman, former King World honcho Michael King, producer Daphna Edwards Ziman and real-estate- magnate hubby Richard Ziman. Effervescent, elegant realtor to the stars Joyce Rey mused, "Look, Coldwell is having a convention in Las Vegas, but I told them, 'No way am I missing Bill Clinton and Barbara Boxer. Also I have seven escrows ... " Clinton, escorted by Farar, arrived a tad late for David's cocktails, but his legendary charm won over everyone. (At the dinner, patrons waited on Clinton for four hours to get rack of lamb costing $5,000 a plate.) Clinton shook Larry David's hand, saying he never missed an episode of his HBO hit "Curb Your Enthusiasm." David asked, "Oh, you watch it?" Clinton said, "Of course, and I'm happy for your success." Later, at the Fisher bash, Nancy Sinatra, accompanied by her hairstylist, arrived in head-to-toe black leather. "They said dress was business casual," the pop legend explained, "This is my business dress." There was a sweet, intimate moment between Streisand and her former beau, ice cream heir Richard Baskin, alone in a corner. They have remained friends and devout Democrats through the years. (Although on screen she has sometimes played the girl who loses the guy, in real life, Barbra hasn't missed much, and her men stay platonically fascinated.) When Clinton took the stage, the audience was as inspired and sentimental as in a political scene from "The Way We Were." "If you guys don't send Barbara Boxer to the Senate, I'm never coming back to California," Clinton crowed. His delivery was passionate and contained a sound bite a minute: "We want our country back!" ... "When we think, we win. When we emote, they win" ... "decisions have consequences." One guest said, "Clinton has said all this before, but it's still inspiring and exhilarating. He makes effortless sense about what's going on in the world. He really felt that Saddam Hussein should have been taken out. Period. That said, he's not into the arrogance of the current administration. He stresses co- hesiveness and not more strife." Personal comment: If we can get into a big GOP fund-raising party, we'll give it equal space.
Barbra's Busy Weekend with Travolta
USA Today wrote: "The highlight of Travolta's party, which included performances by Natalie Cole and Tony Bennett, was Barbra Streisand's breathy rendition of Happy Birthday to You. Streisand, well known for stage jitters, wasn't expecting host Dan Aykroyd to ask her to sing. But once she had the microphone in hand, she asked the pianist to "give me a G" and said she was "a little nervous," Travolta spokeswoman Cindi Berger says. Streisand's Marilyn Monroe-esque version of the song, complete with the line, "Happy birthday, Mr. President," brought tears to the eyes of the birthday boy."
Here's the NY Daily News version: "John Travolta was ambushed in Mexico last weekend. The actor thought he and his wife, Kelly Preston, would be marking his 50th birthday with a romantic getaway at the new One & Only Palmilla resort in Los Cabos. But when he got there, he discovered she'd invited a few friends. Barbra Streisand, Oprah Winfrey, Natalie Cole and a mariachi band were waiting when the couple rolled up to the hotel. That night, there was a fiesta at which Carmen Miranda-ish waitresses served tequila shots to Tom Cruise, Diane Sawyer, James Brolin, Sean Penn and Robin Wright Penn, Meg Ryan, Scarlett Johansson, Sylvester Stallone, Kirstie Alley, Quincy Jones, Laura Dern and Lisa Marie Presley (whose date was guitarist Michael Lockwood)."
Barbra Streisand Scoring Stage
Inside the Actor's Studio - March 21 Tuesday, 03-Feb-2004 Barbra's appearance on Bravo TV's "Inside the Actor's Studio" has been scheduled for March 21, 2004 at 8pm EST. The show will repeat at 11pm that night. My contact at Bravo tells me that Barbra's temperment and rumored perfectionism had nothing to do with the rescheduling of the show. "We often hold episodes to air at a later date. It was purely a programming decision." Get ready for the show!
Barbra Makes the Rounds Cher, Barbra Streisand, Martin Sheen and Christian Slater toasted Scarlett Johanssen and Sofia Coppola on their Oscar nominations at a party that Colleen Camp threw at her Brentwood home Saturday ...
Streisand Statement: Andrew Kuehn Movie Advertising Pioneer More Globes: Liz Smith's Two Bits Wednesday, 28-Jan-2004 From today's column: ... AND BARBRA STREISAND was so supportive and cuddly with her hubby, James Brolin (nominated for "The Reagans"), that one observer said, "It looks like she really believes in those lyrics to 'Stand by Your Man." (At the Showtime pre-Globes soiree Saturday night - hosted by the network's Matt Blank and Bob Greenblatt - Jim and Babs were equally cozy and were overheard talking about a new house in Malibu and the possibility of Barbra's finally bringing to the screen Larry Kramer's AIDS play, "The Normal Heart.") Babs Behaved Monday, 26-Jan-2004 New York Post; Page Six by Richard Johnson FANS of Bravo's "Inside the Actors Studio" may wonder why Barbra Streisand's interview, taped last fall, has yet to air. Rumors that Streisand delayed the show because she's unhappy with her appearance are false, says host James Lipton. "She was phenomenal," he says. "She was there for five hours — most shows last four." Asked what makes for a good guest, Lipton, dean of the New School where the show tapes, responded, "I have one criterion — does this guest have something to teach our students? Barbra was brilliant."
Barbra at the Golden Globes
Ray Stark 1915-2004
Agent turned film producer for Streisand, other Oscar winners BOB THOMAS LOS ANGELES - Ray Stark, a publicist and actors' agent who became a Hollywood power broker and producer of such movies as "Funny Girl," "The Way We Were," "The Night of the Iguana" and "The Sunshine Boys," died at his home early Saturday after a long illness, according to longtime friend Warren Cowan. He was 88. Stark was considered the last of the great independent producers, following the pattern of Samuel Goldwyn and David O. Selznick. Like those two, he made films that were often based on best-selling books or hit plays, that were rich in production values, and that were cast with major stars. Unlike Goldwyn and Selznick, who thrived on publicity, Stark preferred to remain out of the limelight. He gave only a handful of interviews during his career, and then only if he had an ax to grind. He issued only a few details in his official biography. He was sketchy about his age; he indicated his birth date was 1914 (with no month or day given). A news release from Stark's family said he was born Oct. 3, 1915. His career as producer was notable for his association with Barbra Streisand. The son-in-law of Fanny Brice, Stark had long desired to dramatize the life of the great Broadway singer and comedienne. Finally he put together a stage musical, "Funny Girl." To play Fanny he chose Streisand, then establishing herself as a dynamic singer with Broadway, TV specials and cabaret appearances. "Funny Girl" and Streisand became the hits of Broadway with show's premiere in New York on March 24, 1964. Stark converted it into a glittering movie, Streisand's debut in films. For director he chose William Wyler, a three-time Oscar winner who had never directed a musical. Herbert Ross staged the musical numbers. "Funny Girl" was a huge hit, winning Streisand an Oscar as best actress (shared in a tie with Katharine Hepburn for "The Lion in Winter"). She made three more films under her contract with Stark_ "The Owl and the Pussycat," "The Way We Were" and "Funny Lady." Even after they parted, they remained friends, and she often consulted him for career advice. Stark films also won Academy Awards for George Burns ("The Sunshine Boys"), Richard Dreyfus ("The Goodbye Girl") and Maggie Smith ("California Suite"). As a producer, Stark maintained long-term relationships with directors, writers and stars, some of whom he had represented as agent. He made 10 films with Neil Simon, eight with Herbert Ross, four with Streisand, five with Jackie Gleason, four with John Huston and three with Sydney Pollack. In 1980, the Motion Picture Academy of Arts and Sciences gave Stark its highest prize for a producer, the Irving G. Thalberg Award for consistent high quality of production. Referring to the legendary MGM production head, presenter Kirk Douglas remarked: "Ray does what Irving used to do." Stark replied: "Thank you, Kirk, I couldn't have said it better myself." Stark also enjoyed his reputation as a film industry power broker. Company heads and financiers often sought his advice and counsel. For many years he was one of the biggest stockholders in Columbia Pictures, and he was influential in company policy. When he was upset over how the new production head, Britisher David Puttnam, was running the studio, he reportedly pulled strings and had Puttnam fired. When Coca-Cola bought Columbia for $750 million in 1982, Stark played a behind-the-scenes role in the sale. He took his Columbia holdings in Coke stock; by 1987 he had a million shares worth $44 million. In 1984, Forbes magazine estimated his net worth: "at least $175 million." Details of Stark's early life are sketchy, and he made no effort to fill in the blanks. He was born sometime between 1910 and 1914; his official biography fails to say where or to whom. He was educated at Rutgers University, and he first worked as a reporter and publicist. After World War II, he entered the agency business, starting with radio writers as clients, then moving up to bigtime authors such as John P. Marquand, Thomas Costain and Ben Hecht. In Hollywood, he joined Charles Feldman's agency, Famous Artists, and learned the ins and outs of movie deals. Among the clients: William Holden, John Wayne, Richard Burton, Kirk Douglas and Marilyn Monroe. In 1957, Stark and Eliot Hyman formed Seven Arts Productions, which supplied television and feature movies. Stark produced "The World of Suzie Wong" (William Holden), Tennessee Williams' "The Night of the Iguana" (Richard Burton, Ava Gardner) and "Reflections in a Golden Eye" (Marlon Brando, Elizabeth Taylor) while at Seven Arts. Stark left Seven Arts in 1966 to form Rastar Productions. His first film: "Funny Girl." Other Rastar films include: "Fat City," "Murder by Death," "The Cheap Detective," "Chapter Two," "The Electric Horseman," "Annie," "Brighton Beach Memoirs," "Nothing in Common," "Smokey and the Bandit," "Peggy Sue Got Married," "Biloxi Blues," "Steel Magnolias," "Revenge." In 1993 he ventured into television, making the docudrama "Barbarians at the Gates" for HBO. Stark was long married to Frances Brice. They had two children, including a son who died of a drug overdose. Stark owned a horse farm where he raised thoroughbreds for his racing stable. He and his wife accumulated one of the most impressive art collection in the film community. In a rare public statement, Stark in 1999 answered a Los Angeles Times request for his philosophy about film making. In his essay Stark deplored the trend toward homogenization of movies: "Films work best when they're specific; oddly enough, the more specific, the more universal the story. For example: check those artists who've had an impact on films: Orson Welles, Chaplin, Bergman, Hitchcock, John Ford, and writers like Neil Simon, Ben Hecht, Tennessee Williams. They never tailored their works for the largest audience possible. Instead, the largest audience came to them."
Barbra Spotted At New Bergman/Coleman Musical
Radio Barbra! http://www.radiostreisand.com/ Heard yourself complaining that they don't play Barbra on the radio any more? Say no more... Calling themselves "an experiment in Internet radio", AccuRadio offers internet radio broadcasts, keeping in mind the guidelines set forth in the DMCA (Digital Millenium Copyright Act), which placed certain restrictions on internet broadcasters. Included in their selection of formats is "Radio Streisand" - an all-Streisand internet radio station playing many of Streisand's songs from albums of all eras. Organized by "sub-channels" (Barbra Live, Barbra on Film, Broadway Barbra, Rockin' Barbra, etc.), you can choose which category to listen to on the web. "The Movie Album" is even being broadcast! Like a "real" radio station, there is an announcer and an occassional commercial. However, it is the best way to hear Barbra's songs while working or surfing the web (or this website!).copyright © 2003-2007 Matt Howe |
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Barbra's son, Jason Gould, celebrates his birthday today. In a recent interview for FOCKERS, a reporter asked Barbra about her son. Here is her response:
As for the film, many characterize it as Streisand's worse. True, there are some "comedic" moments that are just not funny. And director Jean-Claude Tramont pushes the believability and quirkiness factor a bit further than the slight script can handle. However, Streisand shines in her characterization and is consistent with it. Cheryl's transformation is believable because of that.
Barbra mentioned working with Barry Gibb on a new album during her MEET THE FOCKERS interviews.
Barbra Streisand and husband James Brolin flew to Little Rock, Arkansas for the Nov. 19th dedication of the Bill Clinton Presidential Library. 
Paramount just sent me an exciting email! Yes, folks, Daisy and Melinda come to DVD in February! (and the cover is fabulous!). No extras.
Barbra designed a corset to benefit RAINN (the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network). Her rosie design was already auctioned for $3,000.
Photo of Barbra attending one of James Brolin's relative's wedding in September. Barbra even brought Samantha! (
Last night an animated Barbra Streisand was part of the storyline on NBC's new show, FATHER OF THE PRIDE. The real Barbra Streisand had nothing to do with the show, she was voiced by another actress.
Sydney Pollack will present the Lucie Award for Outstanding Achievement in Still Photography for Motion Pictures to Bob Willoughby at the Second Annual Lucie Awards on October 18th at the American Airlines Theatre in New York.
The Barbra Archives thinks this is just hilarious. 
Look for ALL ABOUT BARBRA magazine #62 to be published in early October. It will feature an in depth story on the "Her Name is Barbra" auction, including a few first-person accounts from fans!
"Extra" got exclusive footage and interviews with Barbra. Her goddaughter, Caleigh Peters, was an "Extra" correspondent. Barbra grabbed the microphone and played to the cameras, bragging about her "brainy and beautiful" goddaughter. 
Wow! It seems like just yesterday that Barbra sang "Once Upon A Dream" to Caleigh during THE CONCERT. 
