Last night SSSCo (pronounced Triple S Co) rocked the house with “Sweethearts, A Valentine’s Tragedy,” written and choreographed by Joselito Castillo.

Set in a 1920s speakeasy, this dark valentine show centered around the life of Delilah Jones (played by Shayda Abab) and her love affair with Sam (Castillo), a traveling trombonist after her money. With an eight-member cast, the performance included music from Tommy Dorsey, Eddie Cantor and the McGuire Sisters as well as a half a dozen or so playful dance numbers including a flirtatious piece performed on a portable mattress. The show concluded with Sam’s tragic-but-expected murder, Delilah’s subsequent arrest and a dance number performed by the entire cast.

Performed at South Side Dance Force, this clever production was entertaining to watch and a fun mix of different dance styles for all ages. In addition to the lively, energetic and spirited dancing, the cast members created an interesting synergy and were flawless in their execution of stage direction, prop movement and audience engagement. Having written a story on Castillo and SSDF, it was delightful to watch Castillo in action. His high energy and passion for dance – as well as those of his dancers – filled the studio. What a fun Valentine treat!

SSS-Co & Friends:

Sam – Joselito Castillo, writer, choreographer and owner of SSDF
Delilah Jones – Shayda Abab
Stanley O’Malley – CJ Conrad
Joe – Ryan Hayes
Herby – Eric Chapman
Betty – Denise Weitz
Myrna – Lori Stephens
Squeeky – Maria Crain

Featured music included the McGuire Sisters, Irvin Kauffman, Tommy Dorsey, Amy Serrata, Trumpet Jam and Eddie Cantor.

For more information on SSDF, see my article in the back cover of the February 2010 issue of Kent Magazine.

Thanks for all of you who follow my blog. I apologize for not being more consistent lately, but with my wedding coming up on 2/14, I’ve had my hands full.

That doesn’t mean that things in Kent haven’t been hopping though! There is so much going on here. People are excited about the ShoWare Events Center, changes at Kent Station, the new Costco in nearby Covington and new shops going into downtown Kent.

I recently had the opportunity to interview Darren Motamedy, an award-winning jazz musician and band director for the Kent School Districts. He was not only talented, but he was also patient, kind, amusing and surprisingly humble. I can see why his students look up to him and how teaching them to play music is such a passion for him. Watch for my profile on him in an upcoming issue of Kent Magazine.

Do you know of a neat business or an interesting person in Kent, Renton or the greater South King County area? If so, I’d like to hear more about it. I am currently writing for several South Sound publications, and am always looking for unique ideas to pitch to my editors. Story suggestions might include:

- A new or unusual business
- An interesting person who makes a significant contribution to his or her community
- A local person, artist or craftsman with a unique talent, hobby or vocation
- An award-winning teacher, school or program
- Someone who has overcome challenges who serves as an inspiration to others

Send your story ideas to dana@virtuallyyourz.com or post them as comments here. I’d love to hear them!