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A LONG STRANGE TRIP TO THE LAST FRONTIER SHAKEDOWN STRINGS
Contributed by Zachary Krogh
For 5 straight nights at 5 different venues throughout Alaska, Shakedown Vegas Presents Shakedown Strings: Truckin’ to Alaska. Whether you’re a long-time Deadhead or just a lover of good live music, you won’t want to miss Kansas City’s acoustic tribute to the Grateful Dead as they make their way north to the future from January 22nd through the 26th. This tour marks a special occasion not just for Shakedown Stings as the bands biggest trip from Missouri to date, but also for Shakedown Vegas organizer Robert Shatzer. Truckin’ to Alaska represents a homecoming for Robert as he makes his way back to Alaska for the first time in 16 years where he has deep roots in the music and concert community. For those who have remained in Alaska’s live music/entertainment scene over the last 20 years, you may remember a monthly entertainment guide called AK This Month which was published and distributed statewide by Mr. Shatzer from 2001-2006.
Shakedown Strings brings a warm and bluegrassy interpretation to the extensive library of Grateful Dead songs. The trio of Adam Galblum, Clayton DeLong and Rick Willoughby blend their improvisational talents with their rich background in jazz performance to produce a unique sound that separates them from your average Grateful Dead cover band. Their individual musical accomplishments include a sold-out
concert at the Red Rocks Amphitheater in Colorado as well as classical performances with the Topeka Symphony giving a slight glimpse to the depth and range of their musical prowess. Sprung from a spontaneous suggestion one night the band is overwhelmed at the response to this relatively new project.
It should be no surprise that a jamgrass tribute to the Grateful Dead has made their way across North America to play under the northern lights. Alaska has a special history within the Grateful Dead timeline going all the way back to June of 1980. West High auditorium in Anchorage played host to Jerry and the gang for 3 nights over solstice weekend with an intimate audience of just 2000 lucky “tuned in” concertgoers. Alaska also boasts a rich history of Appalachian bluegrass going all the way back to the 1940’s. With bands like Bearfoot Bluegrass and Blackwater Railroad hailing from Alaska and making string music more and more popular, Shakedown Strings will find themselves right where they belong this January.
To get the tour started off on a positive note, the first show on Wednesday January 22nd will be a benefit concert for the Denali Arts Council in Talkeetna. The Sheldon Community Arts Hangar is a very unique place to see a show and recently hosted the aforementioned Blackwater Railroad just last October. If you want to support a good cause and see a good show, this is the night for
you! The band will keep up the momentum and continue to let the good times roll right into Palmer for the second night of the run. Sponsored by Palmer Alehouse, this will be the trio’s only free show. The family friendly establishment is celebrating 10 years of craft beer and delicious food this year making them an enticing destination for what is sure to be a very special night of music.
The weekend shows start off with Friday night, January 24th, in Homer, Alaska. Shakedown Strings will be truckin’ down to the famous Alice’s Champagne Palace. This historic venue originally opened back in 1976 and has remained a part of the Homer landscape ever since. Saturday will likely be the busiest show on the tour as the band comes full circle and returns to the point of orgin in Anchorage. They’ll be taking the stage at Koot’s for what is sure to be one heck of a show. Originally named Chilkoot Charlie’s, Koots is no strange place to promoter Robert Shatzer.
During his time running AK This Month, Robert brought bands to Chilkoot Charlie’s from all over the United States and now is returning with his new project, Shakedown Vegas Presents and the Truckin’ to Alaska Tour.
Their final stop on the tour coincides with the Anchorage Folk Festival. The 36th annual
Anchorage Folk Festival takes place from January 23rd to February 2nd and features
Shakedown Strings at 7:30pm at the UAA Wendy Williamson Auditorium on
Sunday January 26th. The Anchorage Folk Festival offers free workshops for those in attendance that want to learn more about music and showcases singers and songwriters from all over the country. Shakedown Strings is sure to be in good company with previous guests of the festival including The Travelin’ McCourys, Bearfoot Bluegrass and The Red Stick Ramblers to name only a few. Be sure to check out the festival’s website www.anchoragefolkfest.com for a full list of activities and concerts.
With 5 shows happening in 4 different cities, there is plenty of opportunity to see one show or see all 5 knowing that none of them will be the same. On Saturday Jan 25th at Koots, the band will be recreating the second set from the Grateful Dead’s Sat June 22nd, 1980, performance. You can purchase tickets and stay informed on start times for each show at www.shakedownstrings.com and stay engaged with the band by following them on Facebook and Instagram.
Scavo’s Photos
Arty Lange Photography Arty Lange Photography Arty Lange Photography
Mike Fenton
ALASKA JUNIOR THEATER PROUDLY PRESENTS AESOP BOPS! WITH DAVID GONZALEZ
Contributed by Rowan Holmes
Aesop Bops! with Master Storyteller David Gonzalez Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 2:00 PM
Get ready for a fun-filled, toe-tapping adventure when Master Storyteller David Gonzalez brings his wildly entertaining Aesop Bops! to the Discovery Theatre on Saturday, February 8th at 2:00 PM. Known for cracking up both kids and adults with his high-energy, physical comedy and clever wordplay, Gonzalez is a favorite among families looking for an unforgettable theatrical experience.
Here’s a sneak peek at the shows that await:
Aesop Bops! takes classic fables and reimagines them in hilarious, contemporary ways. From a Bronx-rapping lion in “The Lion and the Mouse” to a trashtalking turtle in “The Turtle’s Shell,” Gonzalez’s fresh, comedic spin on these age-old tales is sure to delight audiences of all ages. With the musical talents of Daniel Kelly on jazz piano, Gonzalez brings the fables to life through a mix of storytelling, song, dance and tons of audience participation. The fast-paced action and interactive performances keep kids laughing out loud while clever asides and witty humor give parents plenty of reasons to chuckle too.
One Great Saturday! Pre-Show Fun
Arrive an hour early for each 2:00 PM matinee and make the most of your theater experience! Alaska Junior Theater invites families to enjoy a range of fun, interactive events in the lobby of the Discovery Theatre before the show starts.
The Alaska Children’s Museum will host fun activities. Families can walk through Story Tracks to experience their favorite book like never before. Enjoy free books provided by Bright Lights Book Project. Join princesses for an enchanting storytelling experience. After the show, the fun continues with a Milk & Cookie Reception with the cast and a Cake Walk where kids can win awesome prizes! Tickets for Aesop Bops! are available now. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to experience a modern twist on classic fables with one of the nation’s top storytellers. Bring the whole family to this magical performance and celebrate the power of storytelling like never before! Call 907-263-ARTS (2787) or visit Centertix.com. Visit AKJT.org for more information, including video previews of the show.
Don’t Let the Fun Stop Here! Get Season Tickets Today!
Don’t miss out on the most affordable and exciting way to experience the best family-friendly theater in Alaska!
When you purchase an Alaska Junior Theater Season Ticket, you get three incredible shows for one unbeatable price, starting at just $36! That’s right -- three high-energy, engaging and laughter-filled performances for the whole family at the best price in town!
Why Season Tickets?
Unbeatable Value: Get access to three top-tier performances at an incredibly low price.
Family-Friendly Entertainment: Enjoy a wide range of shows perfect for kids and adults alike.
Priority Seating: Secure your spot for the best seats in the house and enjoy
a stress-free theater experience.
Exclusive Perks: Season ticket holders get early access to special events, discounts on additional tickets and more!
This season promises thrilling performances, from the hilarious Aesop Bops! with David Gonzalez, to the fun and dynamic vaudeville extravaganza with The Fourth Wall: Hybrid Arts Ensemble and the mesmerizing world of electroluminescent puppetry with Lightwire Theater. Whether it’s a fun-filled musical, a modern retelling of classic tales or interactive performances that get the audience involved, Alaska Junior Theater guarantees high-quality entertainment that will leave everyone in the family smiling.
Don’t miss out on the magic of live theater! Secure your season tickets today and enjoy the best family fun in Anchorage—all while saving big! Get tickets now on centertix.com or by calling 907-263-ARTS (2787).
Visit AKJT.org for more information and to preview the shows.
Funnies Calendar of Events
JANUARY
January 20 1:00PM
Breaking Racial Barriers in the Spirit of Nonviolence
Mat-Su Martin Luther King, Jr. Foundation, Inc.
The Glenn Massay Theater 8295 E. College Dr. (907) 227-9799 matsumlkjr@gmail.com
January 22 @7PM
Shakedown Strings at the Sheldon Community Arts Hangar
Shakedown Strings
Sheldon Community Arts Hangar Talkeetna 22249 D St (907) 733-7929
Cost: $15.00 - General Admission $10.00 - Youth 7 - 17 Free - Youth 6 and Under
January 23 @10AM-6PM
$5 Third Thursdays at the Anchorage Museum
Anchorage Museum 625 C St (907) 929-9200
January 23 @6PM
Shakedown Strings at the Palmer Ale House
Shakedown Strings
Palmer Ale House 320 E Dahlia Ave brister@palmeralehouse.com (907) 746-2537
January 24 @7PM-8:30PM
Disney’s Frozen Jr.!
The Glenn Massay Theater 8295 E College Drive gmt@alaska.edu (907) 746-9350
Tickets available at uaatix. universitytickets.com
Show is reoccurring, check Facebook for other show dates
January 24 @9PM
Shakedown Strings at Alice‘s Champagne Palace
Shakedown Strings
Alice‘s Champagne Palace 195 E Pioneer Ave shakedownstrings@gmail.com (816) 712-8369
Cost: $10 advance - $12 at the door
January 25 @6PM
Wasilla High School Band
Mardi Gras Fundraiser
Wasilla High School Band
701 Bogard Road
TYLER.MARTIN@MATSUK12.US (907) 352-8200
Cost: $21 in advance online, $26 at the door
January 30 @ 5PM
Open Mic/Art Showcase
Valley Arts Alliance
Palmer Train Depot
610 S Valley Way carmenair@hotmail.com (907) 746-2370
January 31 @7PM, Last Friday of Every Month
Matanuska Amateur Radio Assoc.
General Meeting
Valley Church of Christ 1125 Majestic View Circle kl7jfu@gmail.com (907) 746-6845
January - February, Mondays & Tuesdays, @5:30PM - 6:30PM Winter Evenings with Art & Music at Government Peak
Valley Arts Alliance & Mat-Su Ski Club
Government Peak Recreation Area www.ValleyArtsAlliance.com carmenair@hotmail.com
FEBRUARY
February 1 @10AM
Valley Fiber Arts Guild
Monthly Meeting
Valley Fiber Arts Guild
Banquet Room of Turkey Red, 550 S. Alaska Street valleyfiberarts.org (907) 250-9136
February 1 @10PM
Alaska Farm & Garden Show
Curtis D Menard Memorial Sports Center 1001 S Clapp Street (907) 357-9100
February 2 @9AM
National Wear Red Day & Heart
Health Month Celebration!
Sunshine Community Health Center 34300 South Talkeetna Spur Road HC 89 BOX 8190
www.sunshineclinic.org (907) 376-2273
February 2 @8:30PM
Rouges & Wenches Live at the Anchorage Folk Festival Rouges & Wenches
Wendy Wiliams Auditorium rougesandwenches@gmail.com
February 3 @ 9AM
Heart Health Month
Sunshine Community Health Center
Both Clinic Locations, 34300 South Talkeetna Spur Road HC 89 BOX 8190 www.sunshineclinic.org (907) 376-2273
Cost: bills to insurance
February 4 @10:30AM
Valley Garden Club Regular Meeting
Valley Garden Club
Grace Community Church 900 Leatherleaf (907) 982-7570
Cost: $20 Annual Membership Fee
February 8 @7PM-8PM
Rainbow Moon Paint Night
Paint Nights with Sara 535 W Parks Highway (907) 521-4094
Tickets available at paintwithsara.com
February 14th – February 17th @6PM-8:30PM
Power Conference 2025
King’s Alaska 3301 E. Parks Hwy (907) 357-2065
Tickets available at wasilla.kingsalaska.com
February 15, matinee @3PM or evening show @7PM Wearable Art and Runway Fashion Show
Valley Arts Alliance Palmer Train Depot www.ValleyArtsAlliance.com
Cost: $15 – tickets available to purchase at Fireside Books or Non-Essentials in Palmer, or at My House / Gathering Grounds Café in Wasilla
February 22 @5:30PM-10:30PM
Fur Rondy Fireworks Extravaganza
Fur Rondy
Hilton Anchorage 500 W 3rd Ave
Tickets available at eventbrite.com
Contributed by Contributed by
AJ Seims
DISNEY’s FROZEN- quick your first thought?......If you didn’t come up with “Let it Go” you may be living as the trolls (under the rocks…whom, incidentally, are considered “Hidden Folk” in the stage version).
DISNEY’S FROZEN JR. LIVE AT GLENN MASSAY THEATRE
Frozen Jr at the Glenn Massay Theater starting January 24th and running thru February 8th. You don’t want to be left out in the cold and miss this one!
Out in 2013, the animated movie has lived in almost every child’s home since. Subsequently, it has become a big, live Broadway hit still playing at Disney Studios including the parks and on the cruises. But now you can see Disney’s
A HUGE cast of 87 of the Valley’s finest 8–18-year-old talents will be gracing the stage! AJ Seims (directing) and Kimber Marsden (stage managing) have brought you 9 years of high-quality theater to the Massay including: Fiddler On The Roof, A Christmas Carol, Pirates Of Penzance, Les Mis jr., Disney’s Newsies, Disney’s Beauty And The Beast, Sound Of Music (moved to Chugiak during Covid), Disney’s Tarzan, Music Man, Pirates Of Penzance (again), and now Disney’s Frozen jr. AJ said “We’d like to thank our sponsors who have stayed with us all these years particularly Walther Dental and Taylor Fire Protection (who haven’t missed a show).”
In discussing Frozen jr. AJ suggest-
ed, “you will want to sing along to all the favorites- Let It Go, Do You Want to Build a Snowman, Fixer Upper etc. But we hope you sing it to yourself and let the performers do the singing out loud…just sayin.” In talking about the auditions, he stated, “we knew this was going to be a popular one and we wanted a large cast but we weren’t prepared to have to turn away so many! As it was, I pushed it out of most realms casting 87. We hope those not in the show continue auditioning. They were all so good!”
You will be in awe of the exquisite costumes created by Tiffany Mann and team, of the amazing choreography by Hannah Brooke, the scenery spearheaded by Cory Rausa and the powerful vocals as directed by Carrie Johnson. This team and cast are making miracles happen. It will be a Frozen to remember!
AJ Seims is part of The Alaska Children’s Institute for The Performing Arts dba. Triumvirate Theatre. This is a non-profit group of educators based out of Kenai that focuses much on giving children opportunities to pursue their dreams including offering scholarships etc. Since AJ lives in the Valley he does shows here under that umbrella. In 2021 Triumvirate’s beautiful theatre burned to the ground. This left the company homeless but not stagnant. Since then, efforts to raise close to 4 million dollars have finally come to fruition to construct a new theatre. This is underway and expected to be completed in March. AJ wanted you to know, “the January musicals at the Glenn Massay have been part of that fundraising effort. Thank you everyone who has supported theatre, supported us and even unknowingly, supported Triumvirate’s effort to rebuild to make a home for countless youth”.
Now you know of several reasons to come see Disney’s Frozen jr. put on by Triumvirate Theatre and The Glenn Massay Theater. Get your tickets today at: glennmassaytheater.com
STEEL MAGNOLIAS ACTORS FEATURE
Contributed by Bridgette Preston
As rehearsals for VPA’s production of Steel Magnolias ramps up for the January 17 opening, the six-woman cast recently huddled up before rehearsal to share thoughts about performing in such an American classic. The play, written by Robert Harling in 1987, has endured as a beloved work that captures Southern American culture and female relationships. It has been consistently performed by professional and community theaters since its Broadway premiere, demonstrating its lasting appeal.
Diana Bailey, who performs the role of Clairee Belcher, says Steel Magnolias is considered theatrical comfort food due to its familiar, heartwarming themes, witty dialogue, and emotional depth. “That VPA is serving up this American theater classic as a dinner theater event
emphasizes the physical and spiritual nourishment that this beloved play provides.”
The play’s focus on a close-knit group of Southern women navigating life’s joys and tragedies resonates universally, offering audiences a mix of humor, nostalgia, and catharsis. The beauty salon serves as a safe space where the characters share their joys, sorrows, and vulnerabilities, showcasing the strength that comes from emotional bonding and mutual care.
The “mother” role of M’Lynn Eatenton, is played by Ruthanne Kerr. “Even though I don’t have any biological children of my own, I’ve had the great opportunity to do lots of nurturing of my sisters’ children and lots of kids in the community,” Kerr says. “I tap into those emotions, and then, near the end of the play, when I’m giving my heart-wrenching monologues I tend to think about
my own mama and how much she loves me and how much I love her,” Kerr says, her eyes glistening with emotion.
Anna Johnson performs in the iconic role of Shelby Eatenton-Latcherie, the “prettiest girl in town” who decides to have a baby despite her severe medical issues. This role was played by Julia Roberts in the 1989 film adaptation, earning Roberts her first Academy Award nomination, and cemented Steel Magnolias as an American classic.
“My biggest challenge with this role is that Shelby is a roller coaster of emotions all the time,” Johnson says, “One second Shelby could be the happiest and then the next minute she can be really sassy, or angry, or sad and it’s been challenging to tap into that fluctuation. I feel that I’m not like that so I have to find within myself a different personality to portray Shelby,” Johnson said.
As the local performers took turns
sharing their thoughts about being in Steel Magnolias, it became clear that they were already channeling the relatable characters and themes of resilience, friendship, and community. In the same way that the beauty salon serves as a safe space where the characters share their joys, sorrows, and vulnerabilities, the VPA rehearsal time for the Steel Magnolias cast illustrates the strength that comes from emotional bonding and mutual care.
“All Alaskan’s know the value of a big plate of comfort food, and we think this show, Steel Magnolias, in the middle of winter will provide some soul-satisfying nourishment for everyone,” added Diana Bailey. “ Most people have seen the movie, but a live performance is so intimate, I hope we sell out every show! But now we’ve got a rehearsal to get through, so ladies, let’s get busy!”
Aniela R. Brooke C.
BLUNTS & BLONDES SET TO ROCK ALASKA! PREMIER PERFORMANCE TO HIT THE STAGE AT KOOT’S
Contributed
by
Huycke Entertainment
Get ready, Alaska! Blunts & Blondes, the renowned electronic artist known for high-energy beats and electrifying performances, is set to bring his unique sound to the Last Frontier. Known for captivating fans with a mix of bassheavy drops and genre-bending tracks, Blunts & Blondes is making a highly anticipated appearance in Anchorage, offering fans an unforgettable live music experience.
This two-stage event will showcase the incredible talent Alaska has to offer, featuring nine local Alaskan DJs alongside the main act. With a dynamic mix of performances and Blunts & Blondes flying up from the Lower 48 to headline, this night promises to be a monumental celebration of electronic music. Don’t miss out on one of the most exciting shows to hit the state
this year!
The show will take place on Thursday, February 1, 2025, at Koot’s in Anchorage. Doors open at 9 p.m., and this event is expected to draw fans from all around the region eager to experience Blunts & Blondes’ vibrant performance and celebrate a night of music, community, and good vibes.
Event Details:
• Artist: Blunts & Blondes
• Date: Thursday, February 1, 2025
• Venue: Koot’s, Anchorage, Alaska
• Doors Open: 8 p.m.
• Tickets: Available now at Eventbrite. Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/ e/1088300669599?aff= oddtdtcreator
“We’re thrilled to bring Blunts & Blondes to Alaska for what promises to be an unforgettable night,” said [Huycke Entertainment’s, Darrin Huycke, Owner]. “Alaskan fans are known for their love of live music and high-ener-
gy shows, and we can’t wait to see the excitement they bring to this incredible event.”
Blunts & Blondes has garnered a loyal following for his ability to seamlessly mix genres, providing fans with both chill vibes and bass-heavy drops. Attendees can expect a night filled with signature sounds, surprises, and the unbreakable energy that only Blunts & Blondes can deliver.
About Blunts & Blondes: Blunts & Blondes is an electronic music artist who has taken the world by storm with his unique blend of dubstep, bass music, and electronic vibes. Known for tracks like “Smoking With Friends” and collaborations with industry heavyweights, Blunts & Blondes creates immersive experiences that leave audiences wanting more.
This event is open to fans aged 21+. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind experience in Alaska!
Press Contact: Paisley Protzman, Artist Liaison huycke.entertainment@gmail.com, pprotzman@gmail.com (907) 764-2690 Darrin, (907) 350-3102 Paisley Instagram.com/huycke_entertainment facebook.com/huycke.entertainment
OPEN MIC & ART SHOWCASE: CREATIVITY TAKES CENTER STAGE
Contributed by Carmen Summerfield, Valley Arts Alliance
Celebrate the Arts in the Heart of the Valley! Join the Valley Arts Alliance for an evening of inspiration and creativity at the Open Mic and Art Showcase, happening Thursday, January 30th, from 5 to 9 PM at the Palmer Train Depot.
This free, all-ages event is a celebration of local talent, featur-
ing live music, stunning art, and community connection. Highlighting the evening is a special performance by local legend, Jerry Wessling, taking the stage from 6 to 6:30 PM. Musicians of all levels are welcome to share their talents—signups begin at 5 PM, and each performer will have the chance to showcase two songs. Come enjoy live music, browse
local art displays, and savor refreshments in a welcoming community atmosphere. Donations are encouraged to help support future events that nurture creativity in the Valley. That’s the Valley Arts Alliance Open Mic and Art Showcase, Thursday, January 30th, from 5 to 9 PM at the Palmer Train Depot. Don’t miss this exciting celebration of community creativity!
Contributed by Carmen Summerfield, Valley Arts Alliance
Looking for the perfect way to enjoy winter evenings? Head to the Chalet at the Government Peak Recreation Area for a unique blend of live music and local art! Every Monday and Tuesday in January and February, from 5:30
GET READY TO FEEL ALIVE:
to 6:30 PM, immerse yourself in the beauty of our community with this free event brought to you by the Valley Arts Alliance and the Mat-Su Ski Club.
This arts, health and well-being in Alaska project, is supported in-part by a grant from the Alaska State Council on the Arts, with funding from the Rasmuson Foundation.
These evenings promise a delightful
celebration of creativity and connection. Nestled at the base of Hatcher Pass in the Fishhook community, Government Peak Recreation Area is the perfect backdrop for this wintertime treat. Mark your calendars for an unforgettable experience: live music and local art, Mondays and Tuesdays, 5:30 to 6:30 PM, January through February. Don’t miss out!
GRACE C. ELLIOT BREAKS FOUR-YEAR SILENCE WITH POWERFUL NEW TRACK
Contributed by John Christensen, Candlewick Studios
All Photos by Sylvanus Edi
After a nearly four-year hiatus from releasing music, Grace C. Elliot is set to make her highly anticipated return with the release of her new single, Alive, on January 10, 2025. Born out of a commitment to artistic expression, regardless of the outcome, this powerful track is a raw and honest exploration of the human condition, navigating the highs and lows and the heartbreaks and triumphs that shape each and every one of us.
An energetic and uplifting pop song, Grace’s signature depth is evident both lyrically and sonically. Alive delves into the universal themes of self-discovery, vulnerability and the courage to embrace the messy, unpredictable nature of Life.
From unexpected encounters to cathartic releases of frustration, and beyond, this song captures the essence of the human experience – the
yearning for connection, the search for meaning and the importance of living authentically. At the same time, Alive is a musically infectious track featuring a relentless pulse that shifts and evolves, mirroring the ebb and flow of these human emotions.
“I always want to create songs that resonate with people on a deep level,” reveals Elliot. “(I want to write songs that) inspire the listener to embrace
the full spectrum of who they are, find their voice, and never settle for anything less than extraordinary. If you are reading this, remember that you are alive. Go do something about it! Be wild. Put yourself out there. Piss people off. Get your heart broken. Order that dessert. Wear that dress. Speak up. Dance it off. Scream into the night. Celebrate your individuality. Embrace all there is to experience. There’s ‘existing’ – and then there’s ‘feeling alive.’ I am learning to feel alive again. That is my wish for me –and for you.”
Pre-save Alive now at distrokid.com/hyperfollow/ gracecelliot1/alive. Stream it worldwide starting January 10, 2025.
Alive was produced, mixed, and mastered in collaboration with James Glaves, who has previously
worked with indie artists like Julien Baker, Medium Build, Quinn Christopherson and others.