Cowboys in Berkeley?
Tony Argento
Sunday August 30, 2009
$12 adv. $14 dr. - 7pm
For advance tickets click here.
Tony Argento re-lives Cowboy Poetry Classics: Tales of the "Old West," - patriotic verse and Robert W. Service, includin' story and character history. Tony sets you back in time through his unique audience connection abilities of exquisite humorous and solemn character animation & vocal sound effects.
Tony tells tales of the Cowboy like his Granddad did, the man who inspired him about "Cowboy Poetry." He began reciting Cowboy Poetry in grade school in 1965 at age 5. His unique interpretation of the Cowboy way continues today. Tony refers to his style of reciting "Cowboy Poetry" as; "Tuned Up and Twisted!" Notable poems he recited are; " The Devil's Tail," by Gail Gardner learned at 5."The Shootin' of Dan McGrew" and "The Cremation of Sam McGee," by Robert W. Service by age 11. He admiringly acknowledges the writers of the poems he recites out of respect, and says, "I like the idea of continuing the poet's stories so others can enjoy them, too." He is very enthusiastic about what he does. Those who've seen Tony say it's obvious he truly enjoys sharin' his enthusiasm with the audience, incudin' the common statement. He's quite animated.
Tony's line up includes humor, classic, patriotic, rodeo, gunslingers and drifters, novelty, gold rush, serious verse & much more. He performs as a Cowboy Poet, humorist, story teller & entertainer. In addition, he does Civil War recitations such as; "the Gettysburg Address" & others including the most famous letter from the Civil War.
Tony considers himself an ambassador of "Cowboy Poetry." It's been around since the years following the Civil War. Its unique form continues to show the Cowboy & the American West is alive with stories and tales of elevated humor, patriotism & serious or sad verse. It's a great source of
entertainment for the entire family. Tony says," Once you get a transfusion of "Cowboy Poetry" in your blood, you'll be hooked for life. That's what happened to me, and yes, it's very contagious."
Tony's Grandpa was a WWI Calvary scout. In July 1919, he entered the Salinas, California Rodeo & was the1st to ride a Black Angus bull, takin'1st place & $500. In most cases he used an alias name. He competed at Madison Square Garden during the 1920's. Later, a Hollywood stunt rider for the western movie industry & good friend of Tom Mix. He cowboyed for Miller & Lux, Inc. - the largest private land owner & cattle operation in the U.S.
