Adam Rinn's blog

it's the season of the strongman in more ways than one. There's lots of big news in the strongman commmunity. The documentary 'Bending Steel' is set to make it's world priemere at the Tribecca Film Festival on April 20. The film follows strongman Chris Schoeck as he trains for a performance slot at the first annual Olde Time Coney Island Strongman Spectacular. I'm thrilled to say that I play a major role in the film as does my co-producer of the Strongman Spectacular, Chris Rider.

On March 9, Coney Island USA is holding it's annual Spring Gala at Webster Hall. It's really a party not to be missed...and I should know. I'm emceeing and curating much of the entertainment for the evening. Coney Island USA is Coney Island's resident not for profit atrs organization. If it's cool and happening in Coney Island it's brought to you by Coney Island USA. 

So 2012 is winding down. The Mayan's were wrong. We're still here...and that's a good thing because I've got a lot of things brewing! 2012 saw me working with the New York Variety All-Stars. The All-Stars are Cardone, Kryssy Kocktail and myself. While we've only been together for 7 months, we've already had some amazing bookings, interest in a tv show and we won the 'Act of the Year' award at the Sideshow Gathering in the Poconos.

If the past is any indication, the New York Variety All-Stars are bound for greatness in 2013! Stay tuned...

Some might call them 'the dog days of summer'...but not me! Summer has traditionally been my busiest time for bookings. And each one is it's own experience. This season has been notable for a number of reasons, the first one being the 12th annual Heavy Rebel Weekender. I've been performing at the weekender for the last 9 years. It's always great to see old friends and meet new ones. The following weekend was the Psychobilly Luau. How's that for back to back rock and roll weekenders! 

It could not have been a nicer day! Temperature in the low 80's, sun shining and plenty of people heading out to see the return of thr strongmen in Coney Island.

The day began with the Baby Soda Jazz Band on the main stage. Complete with horns, banjo and one-string bass, Baby Soda was as refreshing as the salty sea mist spraying up 12th Street.

The question I'm asked most about the upcoming Strongman Spectacular is 'what goes on there?' Most folks have never seen a true strongman in the classic sense. I mean, there are dudes at the gym with biceps the size of pumpkins, but are they strong? To answer is to get into a philosophical and physical debate. Yes, they are strong but what they lack is what's called 'functional strength'. A gym rat or body builder's goal is to build muscle...and believe me, that's not easy! A strongman's goal is to literally be strong.

The Olde Time Coney Island Strongman Sectacular plans are in full gear!

A display of such magnitude has not been seen on the streets of Coney Island for over 60 years

Not since Coney Island’s golden years have giants such as these performed at the legendary amusement mecca in a free, all-ages event staged right on the street.

Spectacular Schedule:

1:00 Baby Soda Band

1:45 Cardone’s milk can escape

2:00 Car and truck events

2:30 Stage Show Begins

5:00 VIP meet and greet in the Coney Island Museum  for ticket holders

I heard the news that Ave. B's Lakeside Lounge was closing and that Spanking Charlene's last gig there was last night. Now I have to admit, I was not a regular there but went somewhat often so catch Simon and the Bar Sinisters and Charlene. It was a cozy bar with a really nice feel. But now it will be no more. It's closing down at the end of the month. The owners are selling and from what I understand it's turning into a hipster whiskey bar.

I guess it happens every year...the Summer! While it's only mid-March now is the time that Summer plans move from thoughts to actions. I'll once again be producing a series of variety shows at Sideshows by the Seashore, making a trip or two down south and no doubt, filling in much of the rest of the time with camp shows. With any hope I'll be able to catch a day or two at the beach! Get in touch if you'd like to see the First Real Man in your town!But the summer really kicks off with the Mermaid Parade and Ball! Save the date: June 23.

It's nice to see some things find the light of day. A few years back, I was contacted to film a pilot for a travel-type television show. I've been filmed for quite a few television pilot programs and most are never picked up, but this week I came across the Crackle series: James Hyde Steals the Show. This was a show that I filmed at least 2 years ago.