“Flip it and turn it into a Positive”

Upward and Onward Productions Presents “After Talk” Sessions with OMATC. This segment is all about the celebration, pivot, and passion of the artist and founding member of Upward and Onward known as George Anthony . This is not a part of the regular season, but a private out of season interview. Host Darren Lorenzo takes you behind the music, behind the curtain and behind the scene of things, with George Papas. Join us for more Session Artist and Music (outside of our regular scheduled program). Stay safe, stay home if you can, and if not keep practicing social distance, with a healthy and cautious way of life. Upward and Onward folks.

Big results require big ambitions

George Anthony Papas was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY. George has had the opportunity to sing, dance and act all around the world in National Tours, Cruise Ships and Industrials. He's had the opportunity to sing in such venues as Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall and as a backup singer for Sir Elton John at Radio City Music Hall. George is also a Singer/Songwriter/ Piano player. He has enjoyed many stints gigging around the world with performing artists. Now a proud husband to his beautiful wife Meaghan, and 4 amazing kids, Betty Ann, Aidan, Michael and Ryan. George currently works at The New York Film Academy where he works with the Admissions Department, which includes adjudicating auditions, program building/planning and working with young artists all over the United States.

There is nothing permanent except change

“After Talk” Host, Director and Creator - Darren Lorenzo
Sound Editor/Mixer - Jarde Pierre

Subscribe: https://youtube.com/channel/UC9yC6ltMQS2H19xz79Y_ksw
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/george.anthony.86
Instagram: @GeorgeAnthonyPapas
Twitter: @GeorgiePapas84

Upward and Onward Productions Presents “After Talk” Sessions with OMATC. This segment is all about the celebration and congratulations to artist Jason Wills (on his Ep release and Birthday). This is not a part of the regular season, but a private out of season interview. Host Darren Lorenzo takes you behind the music, behind the curtain and behind the scene of things, with Jason Wills. Join us for more Session Artist and Music (outside of our regular scheduled program). Stay safe, stay home if you can, and if not keep practicing social distance, with a healthy and cautious way of life. Upward and Onward folks.

Jason Wills is a NY based singer, dancer, actor, and writer. Originally from MD, Jason moved to NY to pursue a career in the arts and has been lucky enough to perform and tour the world in productions including “Dreamgirls,” “Madagascar Live!” “Smokey Joe’s Cafe,” and most recently the Broadway 1st national tour of Bronx Tale: The Musical. His passion for music led him to record and release his first self-titled EP this year.  The EP was released independently and includes 4 original songs written by Jason Wills.  “Jason Wills” the EP is available starting December 12th, across all music streaming platforms.

“After Talk” Host, Director and Creator - Darren Lorenzo
Video Editor, Sound Mixer - Jarde Pierre
Sound Editor - Bruno Diaz

Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_WfYwyAaQNpIK7wUHPNnGw
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=5713461
Instagram: @Blueranger83
Twitter: @Blueranger83

#sagitarius #whythehellnot #pandemichustle #4songs #originalmusic #broadwayperformer #maryland #alterego #dec12 #artist #newEp

It is bittersweet to say our goodbyes after 3 months and 12 episodes (some episodes were parts 1 & 2). Which makes over a 1000 downloads, and technically 20 episodes with  this one. We have had an incredible time and have enjoyed entertaining you all. Upward and Onward Productions feels blessed to have had such wonderfully talented, kind, patient and a understanding cast of artist. Allowing us to interview them on this platform during part of this unfortunate pandemic journey, we are all on. But we have come to the end of the season with "After Talk". Hoping to catch you later on.

If you were a supporter of the "Our Meeting at the Crossroads" Video Music Series, and or most importantly our most recent show "After Talk". Then please jam with us on our next venture. "The Gents of the 3.5". A  guys podcast version, of  a similar feel to the tv shows like The View, The Real, and or The Talk, with a hint of stereotypical talks that men speak on. Plus many more topics that are not normally thought of as a guys conversation.  “To be a fly on he wall..... do you ever just want to get in to a huddle, to listen rebuttal  or just plan  understand what’s happenin in the cave of man”. Shout out to Desus and Mero and  the Mtv's Guys Code, for this inspiration. We are trying to provide laughs and more in-depth material, for our audience. First up in the driver's seat is none other than the host and co host of "After Talk" Darren Lorenzo and Bruno Diaz, and joining them is one of Upward and Onwards founders, George Papas. In the passenger seat will always be a friendly invited guest. "After Talk", looks forward to seeing you next year for another season, with more behind the scenes antics and behind the curtain material.

So from us to you, we are so appreciative of your time and on behalf of Upward and Onward Productions. We’d like thank you for hanging out for “Our Meeting at the Crossroads” Video Music Series, and "After Talk". Now Your attention and time is much appreciated and we look forward to having you checking in for our next  show "The Gents of the 3.5”. Remember success is only an arms length away. Stay safe, stay home if you can, and if not keep practicing social distance, with a healthy and cautious way of life. Upward and Onward folks.

“After Talk” Host, Director and Creator - Darren Lorenzo
Co host, Sound Editor, Sound Mixer - Bruno Diaz

Upward and Onward Productions Presents “Our Meeting at the Crossroads with our Host Darren Lorenzo. Jardé, Our Director of Music Relations/Video Editor is from the Island of St Lucia. This particular episode "I Got 3 to 4 Jobs" is a bookend to the way the series started earlier this year, with "Piano Greats".  This time we unveil the curtain on Jarde's life since then, and all the different hustles he has come about, to survive this pandemic.

Jardé is a classically trained pianist from St Lucia. After gracing many stages on his island, he took his talents overseas performing all over the world in countries in Europe, as well as South America playing for numerous cruise ship companies. Jardé is always looking for new avenues to advance his career. In addition to performing as a pianist, He also works in production as a video editor, photographer and cinematographer. If you’re looking for amazing music that wows and touches your soul both on the stage and in production, he knows exactly what a performer needs.

“After Talk” Host, Director and Creator - Darren Lorenzo
Co host, Sound Editor, Sound Mixer - Bruno Diaz 

Upward and Onward Productions Presents “Our Meeting at the Crossroads” music series episode “Red Clay Chronicles”. This segment is all about Tony Hightower’s road to jazz. Host Darren Lorenzo, takes you inside this musical experience. Join us for talks about Atlanta, the music industry and jazz. 

The art of cool has been wayward since the likes of Nat King Cole, Frank Sinatra, Mel Tormé, Miles Davis, and John Coltrane. As represented by these legends of jazz, cool is a state of mind, an attitude of confidence and strength in one’s craft. Jazz artist Tony Hightower encompasses a new age cool that is part homage and part regeneration. Being not only an admirer but a student of the genre, Hightower’s passion and direct connection to jazz music allows him the advantage of properly emulating the timelessness of the classics without the kitsch while still injecting his own interpretations.

Tony Hightower was immersed in multiple forms of music as a child. The son of prominent jazz vocalist Theresa Hightower, his experiences with music, jazz in particular, were ingrained in his upbringing. Regularly witnessing not only his mother perform but a wide range of talented artists helped shape his own penchants for singing and arranging. Hightower’s inherent musical expertise spans genres, allowing him opportunities to create with such talents as Lionel Ritchie, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Outkast, Dottie Peoples, Charlie Wilson and a roster of other artists and producers. Critically acclaimed musicians Freddy Cole and Wycliffe Gordon have both acknowledged Hightower’s ingenuity in regards to The New Standard, with Cole providing musical guidance throughout the conception while Gordon praised the project as a “great recording.” However, accolades for this album don’t stop there; The New Standard received a nomination, amongst veterans and major label-backed artists, as a candidate for the Grammy’s 2015 Best Jazz Vocal Album. Although the candidacy did not manifest into an official nomination, this high achievement further validates the authenticity of Hightower’s purist jazz vision.

The bare honesty in Tony Hightower’s works emit not only through his albums but also in his performances. Speaking on the live experience, he reflects, “Performing live is like a conversation, a conference call; the musicians are having a conversation on stage and then having a conversation with the audience. I enjoy the connection I’m able to have with the [listeners].” With only his passion and vocals on stage, along with the assistance of his band, Hightower confidently shares his labor of love and His respect for the cool. 

“After Talk” Host, Director and Creator - Darren Lorenzo
Co host, Sound Editor, Sound Mixer - Bruno Diaz 

Upward and Onward Productions Presents, "Our Meeting at the Crossroads" music series. 2nd segment "Hello like Before" with our Host Darren Lorenzo. The Artist for the week is, Christina Haddad. This particular episode, touches on the journey of a popular powerhouse vocalist in Lebanon. Join us every week for more Artist and Music, from our series.

Christina Haddad is from Beirut, Lebanon, but lives in Mont-Liban, Lebanon.  A Professional Singer known for her Charismatic Performance and Powerful Voice. She performs International Pop Songs from the 60's till up-to-date hits. Follow her updates to watch her perform Live..

CHRISTINA’s career began in city piano bars, featuring in the show of  “Crooner”  Joe Cambar where she earned the love and appreciation of the audience learning her craft. Highly charismatic and known for her sentimental, yet powerful voice, CHRISTINA has performed in various renowned night spots in Lebanon.

For 3 Years, Christina headlined in the Burlesque Show at the “Playroom” where she performed weekly in conjunction with 15 artists live on stage. She was chosen for her broad vocal abilities, her talent as a feisty showgirl and unique connection with the audience where she won their hearts over and over. CHRISTINA is highly sought after for many private parties, weddings, festivals and large scale events, both in Lebanon and internationally. Some Countries include Egypt, the UAE, Jordan and in the USA.

CHRISTINA constantly appears on top rated TV Programs in Lebanon. Blessed with open and integral people skills, CHRISTINA is often interviewed regarding her career, song choices and future musical plans. CHRISTINA is always invited to sing live during the shows where she is met with applause and appreciation.

In May 2015 and under the patronage of the Ministry of Tourism, CHRISTINA held her first solo concert arranged and orchestrated by veteran Elie Barrak at the inaugural “Al Madina Theater” where crowds were wowed with a heartfelt performance, array of twisted choreography, seductive costumes and gifted musicians. In November 2015, CHRISTINA was chosen to perform at the prestigious “Takreem” event which took place in Dubai, a yearly event that highlights Arab World Achievements.

2019 is a turning point in CHRISTINA’s career, 22nd of June is the date to released her first single “Ouhibbouni” (Lyrics by Badih Abou Chakra & Composed by Kamil Chamoun) her Clip will be aired on acclaimed MTV Lebanon under the Artistic Management of Mary Saad “Music Saga.

Audiences who watch CHRISTINA perform acknowledge that they become carried away into her world of artistry, a place where they become, like her, blissfully haunted by the Music and the Lyrics.

“After Talk” Host, Director and Creator - Darren Lorenzo
Co host, Sound Editor, Sound Mixer - Bruno Diaz 

Upward and Onward Productions Presents “Our Meeting at the Crossroads” music series.  “Old Friends Having Whiskey”, with our Host Darren Lorenzo. Now this particular episode touches on, old friendship, memories and revelations over drinks. 

Ruben Anthony was born on the Beautiful Caribbean Island of Curaçao and started singing and dancing when he was 7 years old. At 18 Ruben moved to Amsterdam Holland’s where he was accepted to the Theater School. After school Ruben played several lead roles in European musicals like Fame, Carmen Cubana, The  musical Hair, Daddy Cool and the list continues. He even toured with Enrique Iglesias.

Ruben recorded his first album Exceptional, which was released in 2006. The single Be My Lady hit the charts at no.5 in Austria. He executive produced his next two albums In My Room, Take It All and went on to write two songs for the musical Carmen Cubana.

In 2019 Ruben was part of Team Anouk in the Voice of Holland. After the show Ruben started a crowdfunding campaign for his new project Blue Light Frequency, which was inspired by Ruben's travels around the world and the people he met along the way. He started production on the project in Amsterdam along side producer Dutchflower. The first single "Always on my Mind" reached over 400.000 streams on Spotify. Ruben currently lives in Almere, Holland, which is about 30 min from Amsterdam. 

“After Talk” Host, Director and Creator - Darren Lorenzo
Co host, Sound Editor, Sound Mixer - Bruno Diaz 

Upward and Onward Productions Presents “Our Meeting at the Crossroads” Music Series. This is the “I won’t break down” Episode with our Host Darren Lorenzo and our featured artist of the week, Noa Neve. This segment, touches on the life and journey of a Israeli born female performer. Who mixes world pop rhythms with sultry melodies, she provides the ingredients for a exotic, multi-ethnic sound and visual experience. Join us every week for more Artist and Music, from our series. 

Having grown up singing and dancing in a 
multi-cultured country like Israel, Noa was 
exposed to a variety of musical styles and dance disciplines that ultimately lent themselves to what is now her diverse and comprehensive talent range. 
Noa’s move to New York City provided the 
opportunity to continue her training with some of the most talented performers in the business including: Gregory Hines, Savion Glover, Ann Reinking and Ben Vereen. By the age of seventeen she was performing in the Tony award winning musical “Fosse”. After “Fosse”, Noa was a featured performer in the Broadway smash “Aida”.
She has had a deep fascination melding ancient melodies and ethnic instruments from various Mediterranean cultures.
The percussive drums inherent in Moroccan music resonated with her the most and inspired her to begin a musical journey of mixing pop with middle eastern influences. With production teams in both NY & LA. Noa writes and sings in English, Hebrew, and Spanish. Mixing world pop rhythms with 
sultry melodies she provides the ingredients for this exotic, multi-ethnic sound and visual experience.   

“After Talk” Host, Director and Creator - Darren Lorenzo
Co host, Sound Editor, Sound Mixer - Bruno Diaz