The "Rite" Ice Cream

This year many orchestras and ballet companies are celebrating the 100th anniversary of one of the most famous -- or infamous -- premieres in the history of the arts.

On 29 May 1913, at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées in Paris, concertgoers witnessed the birth of one of the towering works of the past 100 years -- Igor Stravinsky's The Rite of Spring. 

The Cleveland Orchestra will mark the anniversary with performances with the Joffrey Ballet at the Blossom Music Center this August.

The Columbus Symphony recently performed the work to sold-out audiences with its ballet company.  Principal Bassoonist, Betsy Sturdevant writes about it in her recent post.  Betsy's blog is terrific, by the way.  Another view on life inside a big symphony orchestra. She gives some very helpful tips on how to play the opening solo.

In what must be one of the most unusual and tasty ways of marking the centennial, Jeni's Ice Cream (a Columbus based company) has produced a limited edition ice cream in honor of the Columbus Symphony's performances!  Its flavors (absinthe and meringue) conjure up the atmosphere of a Belle Epoque Parisian cafe like those frequented by artists such as Toulouse-Latrec and other absinthe drinkers.

I had heard that this flavor was available at the Jeni's stores in Columbus, but was pleasantly surprised to find it also in our local Chagrin Falls store! You can also order pints on line!

Taking a cue from the craft beer movement, Jeni's produces ice cream by melding exotic ingredients and by offering limited edition flavors. Warning!  If you're a plain vanilla/chocolate person, this one's not for you!  However, if you would like a creamy, anise-flavored treat, this is just the ticket!