Allan "Big Al" Scanlan operario del parque de diversiones en Neverland Ranch durante más de 15 años. Brian Friedman es uno de los coreógrafos más conocidos en el negocio de la música. Friedman ha coreografiado videos de música y espectáculos como Britney Spears "Toxic" y "Slave 4 U", "My Love Is Like Whoa" de Mya, y "The One" de Prince. Si usted vio los premios de este año los de la MTV Video Music - se le ha visto actuar con Janet Jackson durante el homenaje a de Michael Jackson. Allan "Big Al" Scanlan y Brian Friedman - dos de los invitados de honor que conocieron a Michael Jackson se tomaron un tiempo para hablar de sus reflexiones sobre el retrato de homenaje, así como la vida y la muerte de el Rey del Pop.
Katrina-Kasey Wheeler: ¿Cómo fue trabajar para Michael Jackson?
Allan "Big Al" Scanlan: Cuando este viejo y canoso (no falta mucho tiempo) voy a mirar hacia atrás y recordaré el tiempo en Neverland y mis experiencias con el Sr. Jackson como algunos de los recuerdos más preciados y más especiales de mi vida.
KW: Sr. Jackson siempre emanaba un espíritu hermoso, cuando actuaba y era entrevistado, qué se siente al estar cerca de su energía? ¿Cómo era Michael Jackson como amigo?
AS: Sobre la primera parte de esa pregunta ... En cuanto a espíritu y la energía en persona ... era cien veces más poderoso que usted puede imaginar. Para la segunda parte ... Siempre he tratado de ser realista y recordar que yo era el empleado y él era el empleador. Eso fue muy duro a veces porque me trató mejor que muchos amigos se tratan entre sí. Siempre fue muy amable, respetuoso, honesto y compasivo. Si usted encuentra un amigo que es como que el 100% de las veces ... no pierda a ese amigo.
KW: ¿Cómo fue recorrer el parque de atracciones de Neverland durante 15 años?
AS: Me contrataron para ejecutar y mantener el Parque de Atracciones, que consistía en los paseos, los trenes de la arcada y la fuente de agua. Antes de trabajar en Neverland, mi trabajo me hizo viajar por todo el mundo. Gracias a los viajes y a algunos de mis clientes, he desarrollado un alto grado de hospitalidad. La aplicación de ese conocimiento de la hospitalidad en Neverland, me llevó a llevar muchos sombreros como dicen. Fue una experiencia muy gratificante y humillante al mismo tiempo para mí. El impacto que un día tuvo Neverland en los niños de la ciudad y en los niños que estaban sufriendo enfermedades potencialmente mortal iva más allá de lo creible. Rrepresentar el Sr. Jackson, y ayudarle a hacer su sueño realidad para los niños, ser parte de ese mágico día y el recuerdo de esos niños siempre me acompañará ... fue una bendición.
KW: Para aquellos que nunca tuvieron la oportunidad de visitar Neverland y conocer personalmente el Sr. Jackson, ¿qué fue? Parece que era un lugar muy mágico. ¿Puedes describirlo para los fans que van a leer este artículo?
AS: Lamento decir que, aun con todas las fotos y películas de la finca se encuentran en Internet, no hay forma de que una persona puede describir lo que es un día en Neverland. Es algo que tiene que ser experimentado.
KW: ¿Tiene usted alguna experiencia (s) / historias que puedes compartir con los fans que leerán este artículo - en lo que respecta a lo que era trabajar junto a Michael Jackson y a como era como persona?
AS: Esta respuesta se parece mucho a la última ... muy difícil de describir lo que es trabajar para el Sr. Jackson ... Nunca pensé en ello como trabajo. Cuando tenía 6 años, mi papá me dijo que amaba su trabajo. Luego me miró con una expresión muy sincera y un tono de extrema importancia en su voz cuando dijo "Hay muy pocas personas en el mundo que aman su trabajo. Si encuentras un trabajo que te encante, serás una persona muy afortunada ". Me encantaba mi trabajo en Neverland. Mi trabajo era entretener al mayor artista que el mundo haya conocido. ¿Cuántas personas pueden decir eso? Michael Jackson como persona era: era cariñoso, compasivo, real, bromista, y un increíble padre amoroso.
KW: ¿Dónde estabas cuando te enteraste de que Michael Jackson había fallecido?
AS: ¿Has oído hablar de 'The Middle of Nowhere "? Yo estaba en una enorme granja (Agape Granja) a unas 15 millas de Shirleysburg Pennsylvania en el Festival de la Creación. Pude hacer las dos comunicaciones de radio bidireccional para los productores del festival. Yo describo a este festival como el Woodstock sólo para la música cristiana. Varios de los funcionarios sabían que había trabajado para el Sr. Jackson y vinieron a mi remolque de producción poco después de que la noticia se difundió. Tuve mucha suerte de tener gente para consolarme.
KW: ¿Qué piensa usted del retrato del homenaje de Michael Jackson que está siendo elaborado por el artista David Ilan?
AS: En realidad nunca había visto ni oído hablar de ese tipo de arte ... Me sorprendió la forma en que una obra de arte avanza y la cantidad de paciencia que se debe tomar. Creo que es un gran tributo. Le envié la información a todos en mi lista de contactos y obtuvoe una gran respuesta.
KW: ¿Puedo preguntarle si tiene un mensaje específico que va a adjuntar a su punto en el retrato?
AS: Michael, Te quiero y te extraño.
KW: En su opinión, ¿le gustaría ver el rancho Neverland convertido en un lugar que los fans puedan visitar en el futuro en honor al señor Jackson?
AS: ¡Por supuesto! Sé que se ha hablado tanto para bien como para mal acerca de esa posibilidad. Ha habido informes que decían que el Sr. Jackson odiaba Neverland y que no volvería a vivir allí de nuevo. Habida cuenta de los actos de la DA, el Sheriff y 'la familia', no me cabe duda de esos informes. Creo que finalmente el Sr. Jackson podría haber vuelto a abrir Neverland. ¿Por qué lo creo me preguntara (?). Durante mis 15 años en Neverland, sentado en una mesa de picnic bajo un enorme roble, tuve varias largas conversaciones con el Sr. Jackson sobre Neverland. Mirandole a los ojos y escuchando su voz, no hay duda de que el trabajo de caridad realizado en Neverland fue una de las cosas más importantes en su vida. Con el tiempo, creo que la importancia de esos días mágicos para los niños enfermos y niños de la ciudad habrían encontrado su camino de regreso al corazón de Michael. Las cartas de los doctores y las enfermeras del hospital de los niños y las cartas de los padres que recuerdan el viaje de sus hijos a Neverland revelan la importancia de las obras de caridad que Jackson hizo a través de Neverland. Me hice muy buen amigo de un niño con fibrosis quística (asesino número 1 genético de los niños). Jeff visitado Neverland una vez con el Hospital de Niños de Los Angeles y el doble como mi huésped durante el día anual de los empleados de la familia. Un día después de llegar a Neverland ... me miró y dijo: "No sé si me gusta el artista Michael Jackson (Jeff Lollapalooza era un niño) pero estoy seguro de que me gusta Michael Jackson como persona". Jeff realmente entendió a Michael y la importancia de Neverland ... y mientras escribo esto y me aferró a los recuerdos felices de Jeff en Neverland, entiendo la importancia de Neverland. Si Neverland volviera a su condición de 'Hay Day "y se abriera al público durante un tiempo abierta a la parte pública de la fecha para apoyarlo y para celebrar eventos de caridad ... sería una situación para hacer algo importante.
KW: ¿Hay algo más que te gustaría agregar?
AS: Espero que la investigación sobre la muerte del Sr. Jackson, y todo lo que sigue se resuelvan con rapidez. Quiero que los medios de comunicación dejen de llenar su espacio con MJ y hablen de alguien o algo más. Quiero que los niños de Jackson se libren del circo mediático. Cada vez que veo una foto de los chicos me emociono. Estos impresionantes y maravillosos niños han sufrido una gran pérdida y están experimentando un dolor que ningún niño debería pasar. Los incluyo en mis oraciones cada día.
Una cosa más ... a todos los fans ... por favor descubran a la siguiente generación, la grandeza de Michael, tanto como artista y como persona, una persona compasiva que de verdad quería sanar el mundo.
_________________________
Allan 'Big Al' Scanlan and Brian Friedman remember Michael Jackson: Honored guests at MJ tribute
Artist David Ilan draws the first dot for Michael Jackson in the tribute portrait.
The Michael Jackson tribute portrait was created and organized by Jerry Biederman and David Ilan the artist who has embarked upon a phenomenal homage to Michael Jackson in the form of a portrait. The King of Pop is arguably the greatest entertainer the world has ever known. David Ilan uses a technique called pointillism. Each dot in the portrait represents an actual fan who has signed up to be a part of the tribute (read the interview with David Ilan here). On Friday August 29th, 2009, the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Michael Jackson tribute portrait took place in Hollywood, California. Many people who knew Michael Jackson personally were honored guests at the event including: Azia Pryor (a close friend of Jackson’s with former boyfriend Chris Tucker), Don Wilson (director and producer of the “Man in the Mirror” video), Allan ‘Big Al’ Scanlan (operated Neverland Ranch amusement park), and Brian Friedman (choreographer/dancer). The first dot drawn was for the King of Pop, and the next three were for his three children: Prince Michael, Paris Michael Katherine, and Prince Michael II (Blanket). All honored guests in attendance were also drawn a dot in the portrait.
The Michael Jackson tribute portrait website has become the new mecca for Michael Jackson fans. It has very much become an online community for fans to communicate with eachother and share the latest news regarding Michael Jackson. The site has a chat room feature, and can now be followed on Twitter. There are currently 16,000 active users on the site, but hundred of thousands of people had originally signed up and voted in order to get the portrait started.
Nearly 20,000 fans from more than 165 countries have come to the site to get their dots in Michael's portrait since we launched on August 28 (the day before Michael's birthday). Following Michael's death, the tribute website had more than 250,000 fans send e-mails to David Ilan voting for him to do this portrait of Michael.
Azia Pryor at the ribbon cutting ceremony.
Don Wilson director and producer of MJ’s “Man in the Mirror” video at ceremony.
Allan “Big Al” Scanlan operated the amusement park at Neverland Ranch for over 15 years. Brian Friedman is one of the best known choreographers in the music business. Friedman has choreographed music videos and performances such as Britney Spears’ “Toxic” and “Slave 4 U,” “My Love is Like Whoa” by Mya, and “The One” by Prince. If you watched this year’s MTV video music awards – you will have seen him performing with Janet Jackson during the opening tribute to Michael Jackson. Allan “Big Al” Scanlan and Brian Friedman – two of the honored guests who knew Michael Jackson took time to discuss their thoughts on the portrait tribute as well as the life and passing of the extraordinary King of Pop.
Katrina-Kasey Wheeler: What was it like to work for Michael Jackson?
Allan “Big Al” Scanlan: When I am old and gray (not too long from now) I will look back on my time at Neverland and my experiences with Mr. Jackson as some of the fondest and most cherished memories of my life.
KW: Mr. Jackson always exuded such a beautiful spirit when he performed, and was interviewed, what was it like to be around his energy? What was Mr. Jackson like as a friend?
AS: For the first part of that question ... as for spirit and energy in person ... it was one hundred times more powerful than you can imagine. For the second part ... I always tried to be realistic and remind myself that I was the employee and he was the employer. That was hard at times because he treated me better than many friends treat each other. He was always very polite, respectful, honest and compassionate. If you find a friend that is like that 100% of the times...do not lose that friend.
KW: What was it like to run Neverland amusement park for 15 years?
AS: I was hired to run and maintain the Amusement Park which consisted of the rides, trains the arcade and water fort. Prior to working at Neverland, my work had me traveling all over the world. Thanks to that travel and some of my clients, I developed knowledge of high level hospitality. Applying that knowledge of hospitality at Neverland, I ended up wearing many hats as they say. It was a very rewarding and humbling time for me. The impact that a day at Neverland had on the inner city children and the children who were dealing with life threatening illness was beyond belief. To represent Mr. Jackson and to help make his dream come true for those children, to be part of that magical day and the memory those children will hang on to ... was a blessing.
KW: For those who never had the opportunity to visit Neverland and know Mr. Jackson personally, what was it like? It seems like it was a very magical place. Can you describe it for the fans who will be reading this article?
AS: I am sorry to say that even with all the pictures and movies of the ranch you find on the internet, there is no way a person can describe what a day at Neverland is like. It is something that has to be experienced.
KW: Do you have any experience(s)/stories that you can share with the fans who will read this article - in regard to what Michael Jackson was like to work with/for, and what he was like as a person?
AS: This answer will be a lot like the last one ... very hard to describe what it is like to work for Mr. Jackson ... I never really thought of it as work. When I was 6 years old, my dad told me he loved his job. He then looked at me with a very sincere look and a tone of extreme importance in his voice as he said "There are very few people in the world that love their job. If you find a job you love, you will be a very lucky person". I loved my job at Neverland. My job was to entertain the biggest entertainer the world will ever know". How many people can say that? Michael Jackson the person: caring, compassionate, genuine, practical joker, and an incredible, loving father.
KW: Where were you when you found out that Michael Jackson had passed away?
AS: Have you heard of 'The Middle of Nowhere'? I was on a huge farm (Agape Farm) about 15 miles from Shirleysburg Pennsylvania at the Creation Festival. I do the Two-Way radio communications for the festival producers. I describe this festival as like Woodstock only for Christian music. Several of the staff knew I had worked for Mr. Jackson and came to my production trailer shortly after the news hit the air. I was very lucky to have some very caring people around to comfort me.
KW: What do you think of the Michael Jackson tribute portrait that is being drawn by artist David Ilan?
AS: I actually had never seen or heard of that kind of art ... I was amazed at how a piece of art like that progresses and how much patience it must take. I think it is a great tribute. I forwarded the information to everyone on my contact list and got a great response.
KW: May I ask if you have a specific message that you are attaching to your dot in the portrait?
AS: Michael, I love you and I miss you.
KW: In your opinion, would you like to see Neverland Ranch become a place for fans to visit in the future to honor Mr. Jackson?
AS: Absolutely! I know there has been talk both good and bad about that possibility. There have been reports of Mr. Jackson saying he hated Neverland and would never live there again. Given the acts of the DA, the Sheriff and 'that family', I do not doubt those reports. I believe eventually Mr. Jackson would have re-opened Neverland. Why do I believe that you ask (?). During my 15 years at Neverland, sitting at a picnic table under a huge oak tree, I had several long conversations with Mr. Jackson about Neverland. Looking into his eyes and hearing his voice, there is no doubt that the charity work done at Neverland was one of the most important things in his life. In time, I believe the importance of those magical days for those sick kids and inner city kids would have found its way back into Michael’s heart. The letters from doctors and nurses from children's hospital and the letters from parents who hang on to the memory of their child and that trip to Neverland, make it very clear how important Mr. Jackson’s charity work thru Neverland was. I became very good friends with a kid with Cystic Fibrosis (number 1 genetic killer of children). Jeff visited Neverland once with Children's Hospital of Los Angeles and twice as my guest during the annual employee family day. One day after taking it (Neverland) all in ... he looked at me and said "I don't know if I like Michael Jackson the entertainer (Jeff was a Lollapalooza kind of kid) but I am sure I like Michael Jackson the person". Jeff truly understood Michael and the importance of Neverland ... and as I write this and hang on to those happy memories of Jeff at Neverland, I understand the importance of Neverland. If Neverland were brought back to its 'Hay Day' condition and opened to the public part of the time to support itself and part of the time for invitation only charity events ... it would be a win - win situation.
KW: Is there anything else that you would like to add?
AS: I hope the investigation into Mr. Jackson’s death and all that follows gets over with fast. I want the media to get their fill and move on to someone or something else. I want Mr. Jackson’s children to be spared the media circus. Every time I see a photo of the kids I get emotional. They are amazing and wonderful children and have suffered a great loss and are experiencing a pain that no child should go thru. I include them in my Prayers every day.
One more thing ... to all the fans ... please pass on to the next generation, the greatness of Michael, both as an entertainer and as a kind, compassionate person who truly wanted to Heal The World.
Brian Friedman performs with Janet Jackson at the 2009 MTV VMAs.
Katrina-Kasey Wheeler: First and foremost, what was it like to work with Michael Jackson?
Brian Friedman: It was and will always be one of the best experiences in my life. He was so kind and the first time I worked with him I was 14 years old. I was still a star struck child and he put that at ease. I remember him putting his arm around my shoulder after the performance and pointing out into the crowd and saying wow, why are they all screaming for me. The way he said it was so innocent and I saw past the fame and he was human.
KW: So many people who worked with Michael Jackson have commented on the energy that he exuded. What was it like?
BF: Michael was a kind soul. The energy that he put out was genuine and I believe he treated people the way he wanted to be treated. You couldn’t help but feel the joy.
KW: What was it like to work with Michael Jackson?
BF: When we were working on MTV VMAs 2001 when he danced for N’Sync I stood in for him at the final dress rehearsal. I was standing behind a screen that revealed him and there were many artists and performers in the audience hoping to get a glimpse of him and see him dance. At that time it was rumored that he was performing. When I was standing behind the screen they saw a silhouette and introduced him. The crowd went crazy and for a split second I was able to experience what it felt like to be him before going on stage. It was incredible. As I was revealed the audience quieted down and I was brought back to reality! LOL it was still an amazing experience.
KW: How did you find out about the passing of Michael Jackson?
BF: I was in my bathroom getting ready to go to a final rehearsal for a show that I was directing that was that evening. I thought it was a misunderstanding. Farrah Fawcett had passed away earlier and I thought someone had mixed up the information. I refused to believe it till I found out from a reliable source. I immediately called a family friend and they confirmed that he was at the hospital and they were trying to revive him. It was shortly after when I was driving to work that I got the call that he had passed away. It was shock and disbelief that I felt the most. I never thought this would happen to Michael.
KW: I watched your performance with Janet Jackson at the MTV VMAs. What was it like to be on stage paying homage to a man that has left such an indelible mark on countless dancers and fans worldwide?
BF: It was an honor to dance for Michael’s memory. I knew how much it meant to his family, friends and fans. Everyone needed to find a way to say goodbye and being a part of their goodbye was extremely humbling. Janet is one of the kindest souls and it was beautiful to share that moment with her. The stage was full of the best dancers and choreographers in the entertainment industry and we all owe so much to Michael. He inspired us in ways unimaginable. We all miss him so much.
KW: Many fans around the world remain devastated by the unexpected loss of such a brilliant musician - but more importantly such a caring humanitarian. What advice do you have for the fans in regard to keeping Mr. Jackson's legacy alive?
BF: Do what Michael did... Give and create with no boundaries. I believe that what can be learned most from him is that anyone can achieve anything they dream of no matter how big or small. Living the way he did is keeping his legacy alive. His music will live forever.
KW: What are your thoughts on the Michael Jackson tribute portrait?
BF: I think the portrait is an amazing way to pay tribute to Michael. It gives the world the opportunity to be a part of something that will be cherished in his name.
Video de You Tube:
Enlace a la página del tributo: http://www.michaeljacksontributeportrait.com/home.php
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Katrina-Kasey Wheeler: ¿Cómo fue trabajar para Michael Jackson?
Allan "Big Al" Scanlan: Cuando este viejo y canoso (no falta mucho tiempo) voy a mirar hacia atrás y recordaré el tiempo en Neverland y mis experiencias con el Sr. Jackson como algunos de los recuerdos más preciados y más especiales de mi vida.
KW: Sr. Jackson siempre emanaba un espíritu hermoso, cuando actuaba y era entrevistado, qué se siente al estar cerca de su energía? ¿Cómo era Michael Jackson como amigo?
AS: Sobre la primera parte de esa pregunta ... En cuanto a espíritu y la energía en persona ... era cien veces más poderoso que usted puede imaginar. Para la segunda parte ... Siempre he tratado de ser realista y recordar que yo era el empleado y él era el empleador. Eso fue muy duro a veces porque me trató mejor que muchos amigos se tratan entre sí. Siempre fue muy amable, respetuoso, honesto y compasivo. Si usted encuentra un amigo que es como que el 100% de las veces ... no pierda a ese amigo.
KW: ¿Cómo fue recorrer el parque de atracciones de Neverland durante 15 años?
AS: Me contrataron para ejecutar y mantener el Parque de Atracciones, que consistía en los paseos, los trenes de la arcada y la fuente de agua. Antes de trabajar en Neverland, mi trabajo me hizo viajar por todo el mundo. Gracias a los viajes y a algunos de mis clientes, he desarrollado un alto grado de hospitalidad. La aplicación de ese conocimiento de la hospitalidad en Neverland, me llevó a llevar muchos sombreros como dicen. Fue una experiencia muy gratificante y humillante al mismo tiempo para mí. El impacto que un día tuvo Neverland en los niños de la ciudad y en los niños que estaban sufriendo enfermedades potencialmente mortal iva más allá de lo creible. Rrepresentar el Sr. Jackson, y ayudarle a hacer su sueño realidad para los niños, ser parte de ese mágico día y el recuerdo de esos niños siempre me acompañará ... fue una bendición.
KW: Para aquellos que nunca tuvieron la oportunidad de visitar Neverland y conocer personalmente el Sr. Jackson, ¿qué fue? Parece que era un lugar muy mágico. ¿Puedes describirlo para los fans que van a leer este artículo?
AS: Lamento decir que, aun con todas las fotos y películas de la finca se encuentran en Internet, no hay forma de que una persona puede describir lo que es un día en Neverland. Es algo que tiene que ser experimentado.
KW: ¿Tiene usted alguna experiencia (s) / historias que puedes compartir con los fans que leerán este artículo - en lo que respecta a lo que era trabajar junto a Michael Jackson y a como era como persona?
AS: Esta respuesta se parece mucho a la última ... muy difícil de describir lo que es trabajar para el Sr. Jackson ... Nunca pensé en ello como trabajo. Cuando tenía 6 años, mi papá me dijo que amaba su trabajo. Luego me miró con una expresión muy sincera y un tono de extrema importancia en su voz cuando dijo "Hay muy pocas personas en el mundo que aman su trabajo. Si encuentras un trabajo que te encante, serás una persona muy afortunada ". Me encantaba mi trabajo en Neverland. Mi trabajo era entretener al mayor artista que el mundo haya conocido. ¿Cuántas personas pueden decir eso? Michael Jackson como persona era: era cariñoso, compasivo, real, bromista, y un increíble padre amoroso.
KW: ¿Dónde estabas cuando te enteraste de que Michael Jackson había fallecido?
AS: ¿Has oído hablar de 'The Middle of Nowhere "? Yo estaba en una enorme granja (Agape Granja) a unas 15 millas de Shirleysburg Pennsylvania en el Festival de la Creación. Pude hacer las dos comunicaciones de radio bidireccional para los productores del festival. Yo describo a este festival como el Woodstock sólo para la música cristiana. Varios de los funcionarios sabían que había trabajado para el Sr. Jackson y vinieron a mi remolque de producción poco después de que la noticia se difundió. Tuve mucha suerte de tener gente para consolarme.
KW: ¿Qué piensa usted del retrato del homenaje de Michael Jackson que está siendo elaborado por el artista David Ilan?
AS: En realidad nunca había visto ni oído hablar de ese tipo de arte ... Me sorprendió la forma en que una obra de arte avanza y la cantidad de paciencia que se debe tomar. Creo que es un gran tributo. Le envié la información a todos en mi lista de contactos y obtuvoe una gran respuesta.
KW: ¿Puedo preguntarle si tiene un mensaje específico que va a adjuntar a su punto en el retrato?
AS: Michael, Te quiero y te extraño.
KW: En su opinión, ¿le gustaría ver el rancho Neverland convertido en un lugar que los fans puedan visitar en el futuro en honor al señor Jackson?
AS: ¡Por supuesto! Sé que se ha hablado tanto para bien como para mal acerca de esa posibilidad. Ha habido informes que decían que el Sr. Jackson odiaba Neverland y que no volvería a vivir allí de nuevo. Habida cuenta de los actos de la DA, el Sheriff y 'la familia', no me cabe duda de esos informes. Creo que finalmente el Sr. Jackson podría haber vuelto a abrir Neverland. ¿Por qué lo creo me preguntara (?). Durante mis 15 años en Neverland, sentado en una mesa de picnic bajo un enorme roble, tuve varias largas conversaciones con el Sr. Jackson sobre Neverland. Mirandole a los ojos y escuchando su voz, no hay duda de que el trabajo de caridad realizado en Neverland fue una de las cosas más importantes en su vida. Con el tiempo, creo que la importancia de esos días mágicos para los niños enfermos y niños de la ciudad habrían encontrado su camino de regreso al corazón de Michael. Las cartas de los doctores y las enfermeras del hospital de los niños y las cartas de los padres que recuerdan el viaje de sus hijos a Neverland revelan la importancia de las obras de caridad que Jackson hizo a través de Neverland. Me hice muy buen amigo de un niño con fibrosis quística (asesino número 1 genético de los niños). Jeff visitado Neverland una vez con el Hospital de Niños de Los Angeles y el doble como mi huésped durante el día anual de los empleados de la familia. Un día después de llegar a Neverland ... me miró y dijo: "No sé si me gusta el artista Michael Jackson (Jeff Lollapalooza era un niño) pero estoy seguro de que me gusta Michael Jackson como persona". Jeff realmente entendió a Michael y la importancia de Neverland ... y mientras escribo esto y me aferró a los recuerdos felices de Jeff en Neverland, entiendo la importancia de Neverland. Si Neverland volviera a su condición de 'Hay Day "y se abriera al público durante un tiempo abierta a la parte pública de la fecha para apoyarlo y para celebrar eventos de caridad ... sería una situación para hacer algo importante.
KW: ¿Hay algo más que te gustaría agregar?
AS: Espero que la investigación sobre la muerte del Sr. Jackson, y todo lo que sigue se resuelvan con rapidez. Quiero que los medios de comunicación dejen de llenar su espacio con MJ y hablen de alguien o algo más. Quiero que los niños de Jackson se libren del circo mediático. Cada vez que veo una foto de los chicos me emociono. Estos impresionantes y maravillosos niños han sufrido una gran pérdida y están experimentando un dolor que ningún niño debería pasar. Los incluyo en mis oraciones cada día.
Una cosa más ... a todos los fans ... por favor descubran a la siguiente generación, la grandeza de Michael, tanto como artista y como persona, una persona compasiva que de verdad quería sanar el mundo.
_________________________
Allan 'Big Al' Scanlan and Brian Friedman remember Michael Jackson: Honored guests at MJ tribute
Artist David Ilan draws the first dot for Michael Jackson in the tribute portrait.
The Michael Jackson tribute portrait was created and organized by Jerry Biederman and David Ilan the artist who has embarked upon a phenomenal homage to Michael Jackson in the form of a portrait. The King of Pop is arguably the greatest entertainer the world has ever known. David Ilan uses a technique called pointillism. Each dot in the portrait represents an actual fan who has signed up to be a part of the tribute (read the interview with David Ilan here). On Friday August 29th, 2009, the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Michael Jackson tribute portrait took place in Hollywood, California. Many people who knew Michael Jackson personally were honored guests at the event including: Azia Pryor (a close friend of Jackson’s with former boyfriend Chris Tucker), Don Wilson (director and producer of the “Man in the Mirror” video), Allan ‘Big Al’ Scanlan (operated Neverland Ranch amusement park), and Brian Friedman (choreographer/dancer). The first dot drawn was for the King of Pop, and the next three were for his three children: Prince Michael, Paris Michael Katherine, and Prince Michael II (Blanket). All honored guests in attendance were also drawn a dot in the portrait.
The Michael Jackson tribute portrait website has become the new mecca for Michael Jackson fans. It has very much become an online community for fans to communicate with eachother and share the latest news regarding Michael Jackson. The site has a chat room feature, and can now be followed on Twitter. There are currently 16,000 active users on the site, but hundred of thousands of people had originally signed up and voted in order to get the portrait started.
Nearly 20,000 fans from more than 165 countries have come to the site to get their dots in Michael's portrait since we launched on August 28 (the day before Michael's birthday). Following Michael's death, the tribute website had more than 250,000 fans send e-mails to David Ilan voting for him to do this portrait of Michael.
Azia Pryor at the ribbon cutting ceremony.
Don Wilson director and producer of MJ’s “Man in the Mirror” video at ceremony.
Allan “Big Al” Scanlan operated the amusement park at Neverland Ranch for over 15 years. Brian Friedman is one of the best known choreographers in the music business. Friedman has choreographed music videos and performances such as Britney Spears’ “Toxic” and “Slave 4 U,” “My Love is Like Whoa” by Mya, and “The One” by Prince. If you watched this year’s MTV video music awards – you will have seen him performing with Janet Jackson during the opening tribute to Michael Jackson. Allan “Big Al” Scanlan and Brian Friedman – two of the honored guests who knew Michael Jackson took time to discuss their thoughts on the portrait tribute as well as the life and passing of the extraordinary King of Pop.
Katrina-Kasey Wheeler: What was it like to work for Michael Jackson?
Allan “Big Al” Scanlan: When I am old and gray (not too long from now) I will look back on my time at Neverland and my experiences with Mr. Jackson as some of the fondest and most cherished memories of my life.
KW: Mr. Jackson always exuded such a beautiful spirit when he performed, and was interviewed, what was it like to be around his energy? What was Mr. Jackson like as a friend?
AS: For the first part of that question ... as for spirit and energy in person ... it was one hundred times more powerful than you can imagine. For the second part ... I always tried to be realistic and remind myself that I was the employee and he was the employer. That was hard at times because he treated me better than many friends treat each other. He was always very polite, respectful, honest and compassionate. If you find a friend that is like that 100% of the times...do not lose that friend.
KW: What was it like to run Neverland amusement park for 15 years?
AS: I was hired to run and maintain the Amusement Park which consisted of the rides, trains the arcade and water fort. Prior to working at Neverland, my work had me traveling all over the world. Thanks to that travel and some of my clients, I developed knowledge of high level hospitality. Applying that knowledge of hospitality at Neverland, I ended up wearing many hats as they say. It was a very rewarding and humbling time for me. The impact that a day at Neverland had on the inner city children and the children who were dealing with life threatening illness was beyond belief. To represent Mr. Jackson and to help make his dream come true for those children, to be part of that magical day and the memory those children will hang on to ... was a blessing.
KW: For those who never had the opportunity to visit Neverland and know Mr. Jackson personally, what was it like? It seems like it was a very magical place. Can you describe it for the fans who will be reading this article?
AS: I am sorry to say that even with all the pictures and movies of the ranch you find on the internet, there is no way a person can describe what a day at Neverland is like. It is something that has to be experienced.
KW: Do you have any experience(s)/stories that you can share with the fans who will read this article - in regard to what Michael Jackson was like to work with/for, and what he was like as a person?
AS: This answer will be a lot like the last one ... very hard to describe what it is like to work for Mr. Jackson ... I never really thought of it as work. When I was 6 years old, my dad told me he loved his job. He then looked at me with a very sincere look and a tone of extreme importance in his voice as he said "There are very few people in the world that love their job. If you find a job you love, you will be a very lucky person". I loved my job at Neverland. My job was to entertain the biggest entertainer the world will ever know". How many people can say that? Michael Jackson the person: caring, compassionate, genuine, practical joker, and an incredible, loving father.
KW: Where were you when you found out that Michael Jackson had passed away?
AS: Have you heard of 'The Middle of Nowhere'? I was on a huge farm (Agape Farm) about 15 miles from Shirleysburg Pennsylvania at the Creation Festival. I do the Two-Way radio communications for the festival producers. I describe this festival as like Woodstock only for Christian music. Several of the staff knew I had worked for Mr. Jackson and came to my production trailer shortly after the news hit the air. I was very lucky to have some very caring people around to comfort me.
KW: What do you think of the Michael Jackson tribute portrait that is being drawn by artist David Ilan?
AS: I actually had never seen or heard of that kind of art ... I was amazed at how a piece of art like that progresses and how much patience it must take. I think it is a great tribute. I forwarded the information to everyone on my contact list and got a great response.
KW: May I ask if you have a specific message that you are attaching to your dot in the portrait?
AS: Michael, I love you and I miss you.
KW: In your opinion, would you like to see Neverland Ranch become a place for fans to visit in the future to honor Mr. Jackson?
AS: Absolutely! I know there has been talk both good and bad about that possibility. There have been reports of Mr. Jackson saying he hated Neverland and would never live there again. Given the acts of the DA, the Sheriff and 'that family', I do not doubt those reports. I believe eventually Mr. Jackson would have re-opened Neverland. Why do I believe that you ask (?). During my 15 years at Neverland, sitting at a picnic table under a huge oak tree, I had several long conversations with Mr. Jackson about Neverland. Looking into his eyes and hearing his voice, there is no doubt that the charity work done at Neverland was one of the most important things in his life. In time, I believe the importance of those magical days for those sick kids and inner city kids would have found its way back into Michael’s heart. The letters from doctors and nurses from children's hospital and the letters from parents who hang on to the memory of their child and that trip to Neverland, make it very clear how important Mr. Jackson’s charity work thru Neverland was. I became very good friends with a kid with Cystic Fibrosis (number 1 genetic killer of children). Jeff visited Neverland once with Children's Hospital of Los Angeles and twice as my guest during the annual employee family day. One day after taking it (Neverland) all in ... he looked at me and said "I don't know if I like Michael Jackson the entertainer (Jeff was a Lollapalooza kind of kid) but I am sure I like Michael Jackson the person". Jeff truly understood Michael and the importance of Neverland ... and as I write this and hang on to those happy memories of Jeff at Neverland, I understand the importance of Neverland. If Neverland were brought back to its 'Hay Day' condition and opened to the public part of the time to support itself and part of the time for invitation only charity events ... it would be a win - win situation.
KW: Is there anything else that you would like to add?
AS: I hope the investigation into Mr. Jackson’s death and all that follows gets over with fast. I want the media to get their fill and move on to someone or something else. I want Mr. Jackson’s children to be spared the media circus. Every time I see a photo of the kids I get emotional. They are amazing and wonderful children and have suffered a great loss and are experiencing a pain that no child should go thru. I include them in my Prayers every day.
One more thing ... to all the fans ... please pass on to the next generation, the greatness of Michael, both as an entertainer and as a kind, compassionate person who truly wanted to Heal The World.
Brian Friedman performs with Janet Jackson at the 2009 MTV VMAs.
Katrina-Kasey Wheeler: First and foremost, what was it like to work with Michael Jackson?
Brian Friedman: It was and will always be one of the best experiences in my life. He was so kind and the first time I worked with him I was 14 years old. I was still a star struck child and he put that at ease. I remember him putting his arm around my shoulder after the performance and pointing out into the crowd and saying wow, why are they all screaming for me. The way he said it was so innocent and I saw past the fame and he was human.
KW: So many people who worked with Michael Jackson have commented on the energy that he exuded. What was it like?
BF: Michael was a kind soul. The energy that he put out was genuine and I believe he treated people the way he wanted to be treated. You couldn’t help but feel the joy.
KW: What was it like to work with Michael Jackson?
BF: When we were working on MTV VMAs 2001 when he danced for N’Sync I stood in for him at the final dress rehearsal. I was standing behind a screen that revealed him and there were many artists and performers in the audience hoping to get a glimpse of him and see him dance. At that time it was rumored that he was performing. When I was standing behind the screen they saw a silhouette and introduced him. The crowd went crazy and for a split second I was able to experience what it felt like to be him before going on stage. It was incredible. As I was revealed the audience quieted down and I was brought back to reality! LOL it was still an amazing experience.
KW: How did you find out about the passing of Michael Jackson?
BF: I was in my bathroom getting ready to go to a final rehearsal for a show that I was directing that was that evening. I thought it was a misunderstanding. Farrah Fawcett had passed away earlier and I thought someone had mixed up the information. I refused to believe it till I found out from a reliable source. I immediately called a family friend and they confirmed that he was at the hospital and they were trying to revive him. It was shortly after when I was driving to work that I got the call that he had passed away. It was shock and disbelief that I felt the most. I never thought this would happen to Michael.
KW: I watched your performance with Janet Jackson at the MTV VMAs. What was it like to be on stage paying homage to a man that has left such an indelible mark on countless dancers and fans worldwide?
BF: It was an honor to dance for Michael’s memory. I knew how much it meant to his family, friends and fans. Everyone needed to find a way to say goodbye and being a part of their goodbye was extremely humbling. Janet is one of the kindest souls and it was beautiful to share that moment with her. The stage was full of the best dancers and choreographers in the entertainment industry and we all owe so much to Michael. He inspired us in ways unimaginable. We all miss him so much.
KW: Many fans around the world remain devastated by the unexpected loss of such a brilliant musician - but more importantly such a caring humanitarian. What advice do you have for the fans in regard to keeping Mr. Jackson's legacy alive?
BF: Do what Michael did... Give and create with no boundaries. I believe that what can be learned most from him is that anyone can achieve anything they dream of no matter how big or small. Living the way he did is keeping his legacy alive. His music will live forever.
KW: What are your thoughts on the Michael Jackson tribute portrait?
BF: I think the portrait is an amazing way to pay tribute to Michael. It gives the world the opportunity to be a part of something that will be cherished in his name.
Video de You Tube:
Enlace a la página del tributo: http://www.michaeljacksontributeportrait.com/home.php
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