So, my friend Mo has cancer. He’s done the first round of chemo, which was promising, and now onto the next. He’s in good spirits and the harem is holding it down. That said, chemo costs money and the only trees growing round here are social networks. Hence Mo’s friends are having a ‘Mo Better Blues’ benefit at Barefoot on April 27th. Triloka, the Barefoot Jazz Band, Southern Jazz Project and many more will be performing. There will also be an art auction and a Koluu auction (as a cook). This whole thing must make Mo uncomfortable, but then chemo is uncomfortable. What to do. Tickets are Rs 1000 at the door and all donations go to Mo’s direct medical needs. I feel like I don’t even need to mention, but Mohan Ariyaratne is a lynchpin of the entire scene as we know it. Music and entertainment wise this promises to be another fanta night at Barefoot, but it is also a very good thing. Everyone gets a handstamp worth 10 ‘pin’ worth of karma at the door, redeemable for one night of moderate debauchery.
From the initial mail to artists:
Mohan Ariyaratne needs no introduction, but this benefit does. Our friend has recently been diagnosed with liver cancer. At this time the support of a community is vital to both organs and soul, hence this gathering. On Sunday April 27th Barefoot Gallery will host an evening of music, artwork, photography and interesting people. All proceeds (both vibes and monetary) go for the benefit of Mr. Mo.
For people who don’t know Mo, he is the Superintendent at Barefoot. A lot of the art you’ve seen has probably been carefully hung by him. A lot of the chill music you hear is from his inestimable collection and taste. Many of the vibes you may have experienced are also him. If you’ve set foot in Barefoot you’ve entered Mo’s wavelength, and probably felt better for it. Anyways, his artist friends have gotten together to organize this benefit for him as a small recompense for all the times we’ve shared.
Events will include
* Music From Triloka, Barefoot Jazz Band, Southern Jazz Project and more
* Artwork Auction
* Koluu Auction – to cook dinner for four
Everyone performing, exhibiting and most people attending are direct friends of Mo. We have listened to his music, shared beers and countless events together. For a small band of people united by a love of art, music and substance, Mohan is our curator, DJ and main man. He is above all a constant friend in the rotating cast of Barefoot and greater Colombo. Some of the many that love Mo will gather on Sunday the 27th. We hope that you can join us to share your talent, your conversation and your time. A splendid time is guaranteed for all.
For the benefit of Mr. Mo
There will be a show next Sunday on trampoline
Anderson Road will all be there
Art and music everywhere, what a scene
Over men and horses hoops and garters
Lastly through a hogshead of real fire!
In this way Mr. Mo will challenge the world!
The celebrated Mr. Mo
Performs his feat on Sunday at Barefoot Gallery
Triloka will dance and sing
As Mr. Mo flies through the ring don’t be late
Messrs. M. and T. assure the public
Their production will be second to none
And of course Koluu The Cook cooks in your house!
The band begins at ten to four
When Mr. Mo performs his tricks without a sound
And the Jazz Band will demonstrate
Ten jams they’ll undertake on solid ground
Having been some days in preparation
A splendid time is guaranteed for all
And tonight Mr. Mo is topping the bill.
Mo better now. No blues. And Mr. Kite will fly that night so everything will be all right – don’t be late.
It would have been wonderful if the esteemed and highly motivated organizers of this concert had considered the possibility that some of Mo’s actual FRIENDS, who are also musicians and have a few fans of their own, might have liked to strum a song or two for him at this marvellous event.
And what, pray, is a ‘Triloka’?
Prayers and love to Mo. He was on my first shoot in advertising. And it’s always lovely to see his calm and unassuming face at Barefoot whenever one visits.