SanTan Sun News; 12-20-14; Arts

Zoppé circus returns to Chandler’s big top

BY MANALI CHAVAN

Zoppé, the Italian family circus, has been dazzling audiences for about 170 years and will continue to this year at the Chandler Center for the Arts.

Established in Italy by a young street performer named Napoline Zoppè and then transplanted to America before World War II, the Zoppé Circus served as a symbol of victory once the war ended.

“Everyone wanted to see the circus because it was like a big celebration,” Sandra Zoppé says.

Sandra’s husband, Alberto Zoppé, is Napoline’s great-grandson. Alberto left Italy in the late 1930s to be part of the movie production of Cecil B. DeMille’s “The Greatest Show on Earth.” At first, Alberto was hesitant about leaving his homeland and family to work in America. However, he eventually decided to venture to America after the head of Ringling Brothers Circus, Johnny North, agreed to leave an elephant behind so that his family’s circus wouldn’t suffer. He continued to perform while in America and eventually met his future wife.

“I was on tour and he was doing the same variety show I was doing,” says Sandra. “He was doing a comedy act and he asked for girls from the audience to come and ride the horse, but he couldn’t get anyone to come from the audience.”

Jumping into action, Sandra pulled her hair into braids and offered to ride the horse for Alberto. He later asked if she

was available to work for a few more of his shows. It wasn’t long before sparks flew between the two.

“I fell very much in love with him,” says Sandra.

The couple has three children: Carla, Giovanni and Tosca. Together they performed in shows across the United States. Sandra, a theater major, created a scripted show for the circus. After Alberto stepped down from performing, Tosca took over the circus that still performs. The circus performance is similar to a theater show.

“It’s like watching something very beautiful,” says Sandra. “It’s not theater, it’s not circus, but it’s an in-between mix. They have created a very beautiful show.”

Sandra opens the show with a short story on the history of Zoppé. Giovanni takes on the role of Nino the Clown and performs comedy acts. Carla and her husband perform a dog act. Tosca, taking after her father, is an equestrian artist.

“She’s (Tosca) our bareback rider,” says Sandra. “She does ballet on horse back and she jumps over fire. She’s amazing.”

Zoppé, the Italian family circus, performs at the Chandler Center for the Arts from Friday, Dec. 26, to Sunday, Jan. 4, at various times. Ticket prices range from $15 to $40 and include free admission for children 2 years and younger who sit on laps.

Audiences can also expect holidaythemed decorations and acts during a

RETURNING TO TOWN: Zoppé, the Italian family circus, performs at the Chandler Center for the Arts from Friday, Dec. 26, to Sunday, Jan. 4. Submitted photo

select few performances. The Zoppé family has performed in Chandler in the past and is happy to be performing in a familiar setting.

“The crowds are amazing in Chandler,” says Sandra. “They’re normally packed houses. Chandler is a very special place for us. They’re a part of our hearts and we’re a part of theirs.”

For more information on show dates, times and prices visit www. chandlercenter.org/performances/ zoppe.html.

Manali Chavan is a student at Barrett, The Honors College, at Arizona State University. She can be reached at news@ santansun.com.

Power Drive sends Latin, pop music into overdrive

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Musician Rudy Barcelo is passionate about his band Power Drive, a local contemporary pop and Latin music act.

He rattles off Power Drive’s history during a quick 20 minutes, boasting about his nine bandmates’ talents.

Barcelo says he feels like a superstar when he performs with the Mesabased collective, and is flattered when workers at local casinos recognize him.

“This coming March it will be 20 years,” says Barcelo, whose band is playing a special New Year’s Eve concert at Wild Horse Pass in Chandler.

“I think the band has been successful because we play a variety of music. We’re doing old school like ‘Brick House’ and all that stuff. We’re doing Tejano music.

“We’re bilingual. We’re Chicano; we’re Hispanic but born in the United States. We like the Mexican music. We like the old school. The people who follow us, that’s what they want— variety.”

Although Barcelo says the band has been playing for two decades, it’s actually been much longer. Power Drive was formed in the mid-1970s, frequently playing Los Olivos in Scottsdale.

“We played there for approximately two years and became very popular— so popular that, sometimes, people were lined up halfway around the

block waiting to get into the club,” he says.

Power Drive broke up after its contract ended at Los Olivos.

“Many of the members continued to play with other bands in the Valley and a couple of the original group members went on the road for a number of years with various musical groups,” he says.

The band regrouped in March 1995 and has continued the legacy of being a leading dance band in the Valley.

“We are capable of playing a light Latin cumbia and quickly changing modes to a strong salsa beat then slowing down the beat to a romantic Latin bolero and then taking you back in time and playing some rhythm and blues/oldies and then get you going with some Santana selections and then keep you moving you dancing all night long,” Barcelo says.

Power Drive does so throughout the week. On Mondays and Thursdays it performs at Vee Quiva Hotel and Casino; Wednesdays they entertain guests at Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino; and Fridays it hits the stage at El Zocalo Mexican Grill in Chandler. Saturdays are reserved for private engagements that can be booked by calling Barcelo at (602) 487-6119. But the New Year’s Eve gig is special.

“It’s at the Ovations showroom,” he says. “That’s where they have all

the major concerts. For us, it’s a major deal. It’s a ‘concert.’ Our music is more for dancing. It’s more of a dance music. But there it becomes a ‘show,’” he says.

Barcelo is joined on stage by nine other musicians—drummer Martin Tapia, conga player Frank Favela, guitarist Leonard Tapia, keyboardist/ percussionist Salvador Sanchez, singers Brian Acosta and Angie Gomez, bassist Frank Acosta, saxophonist Juan Castaneda and percussionist Art Briones.

“We enjoy the people who come to our shows,” Barcelo says. “We have fun. It’s a little work. I’m 64, but like I’ve said, when I go to the shower and get ready for the show, I feel 21. When I come home, I feel 64. It’s interesting stuff that we do. We tell each other that we’re blessed to have the Godgiven skill to do what we do.”

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski is the executive editor of the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at christina@ santansun.com.

Three Dog Night show postponed

Legendary band Three Dog Night, which was scheduled to perform at Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd., Chandler on Friday, Dec. 12, has been forced to postpone the performance due to a family medical emergency. Instead, it will play at the casino Friday, June 26.

“Sometimes life throws you for a loop and we are very disappointed about postponing these shows” says Danny Hutton, co-founder of the band. “But we will be back just as soon as we can to perform for our fans in the Phoenix market.”

Guests who had purchased tickets for the Dec. 12 performance are eligible for a full refund of the ticket purchase price by calling (800) 9464452, ext. 7370 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily or by visiting the box office at Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino. Guests may also transfer their ticket purchase to the rescheduled show on Friday, June 26.

Arts

Display artwork, support firefighters

The seventh annual Art at the Lakes Show, set for Saturday, March 7, at 25630 S. Brentwood Drive, Sun Lakes, is still open to artists who wish to display their creations. The Sun Lakes Watercolor Club, Oakwood Artists League and Desert Artists Club will select from local artists who submit pastels, mixed media, paintings, photography, handmade jewelry, sculpture and gourd art.

The show will take place around Cottonwood Lake on Brentwood Drive in the Cottonwood subdivision. Bluegrass musicians, country artists and other live performers will provide entertainment at the event.

Participation in the show requires a $40 entry fee, which will cover the show expenses and the cost of an 8-foot table and two chairs for each artist. Artists may share a table, but each will be responsible for the fee.

The art show benefits the Sun Lakes Firefighters’ Emergency Relief Fund, which helps citizens who have faced emergency situations, and the 100 Club of Arizona, which provides assistance to first responders, emergency workers and their families. The Sun Lakes Firefighters will serve donuts, burgers, hot dogs, chips, coffee and soda during the show. Past shows have brought in approximately $8,000 for the fund.

FIRE UP THE GRILL: Art at the Lakes will help support the 100 Club of Arizona and a relief fund maintained by Sun Lakes Firefighters, who will be on hand to serve hot dogs, hamburgers and more. Submitted photo

Organizers will accept about 60 creative artists’ submissions for display at the show. Applications are available in the Cottonwood office, 25630 S. Brentwood Dr., Sun Lakes; the Palo Verde office, 25219 S. EJ Robson Blvd., Sun Lakes, and in all the art rooms. Artists may also request an application online at ArtAtTheLakes@aol.com.

Show organizers are also looking for volunteers to work at the event and to solicit businesses for donations in the weeks prior to the show. Contact Beverly Walters at bewalter@msn.com or call (480) 802-4680 to volunteer, give a club donation or ask any questions.

‘Harvey’ hops on stage in Pulitzer Prize winner

The Pulitzer Prize-winning play “Harvey,” which began its run 70 years ago on Broadway, is playing on the Actor’s Café stage at Desert Stages Theatre, 4720 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, through Sunday, Jan. 11.

The dramatic comedy tells the story of the carefree and kind Elwood P. Dowd and his new best friend, the titular Harvey. Elwood goes everywhere with the loyal and amusing Harvey, buys him drinks and even introduces him to everyone he knows. However, Elwood’s family becomes worried about the friendship, and for good reason: Harvey is an imaginary six-foot-three-and-ahalf-inch rabbit.

Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays during the show’s run.

Virginia Olivieri is directing the DST production of “Harvey,” which was written by Mary Chase in 1944. “Harvey” was later adapted into a movie in 1950 starring James Stewart as the eccentric Elwood P. Dowd. Tickets are available at www.DesertStages. org or by phone at (480) 483-1664, and also at the theater box office, 4720 N. Scottsdale Road, on the north side of Scottsdale Fashion Square. Tickets are $25 for adults and $22 for seniors and students.

Season’s greetings and a full season at VYT

The 19th holiday production of “A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail” will run through Tuesday, Dec. 23, at Valley Youth Theatre, 525 N. First St., Phoenix. As part of its 26th season, Valley Youth Theatre is collecting stuffed animals for the nonprofit charity Operation Noah.

Operation Noah was started in 2004 by Chandler’s Dennis Fries when he was 13. In the past 10 years, more than 330,000 stuffed animals have been given to children admitted to more than 100 hospitals and emergency rooms.

Since then, Fries has graduated from New York University with a bachelor’s degree in film and TV production and has returned to the Valley to run a motion design and animation company.

With actors ranging in age from six (newcomer Ivon Staneva as Roo) to 18 (Brandon Reyes as Eeyore), the cast of “Pooh” includes four young actors from Chandler and one each from Mesa, Paradise Valley and Waddell for a total of 15 actors. Carly McClain, 16, reprises her 2012 role as Pooh and Caroline Wells returns from last season as the mama marsupial Kanga. Both hail from Phoenix, along with six others in the cast.

The musical follows Winnie-thePooh and Piglet as they rally all their friends in the Hundred-Acre Wood to help the gloomy gray donckey, Eeyore, find a missing piece—his tail, naturally.

The play is based on stories by A.A. Milne and music and lyrics are by James W. Rodgers, who is also known for adapting the Frank Capra film “It’s A Wonderful Life” into a musical.

Tickets start at $20 and are available by calling the box office at (602) 2538188, ext. 2 or online at www.vyt.com.

In other VYT news, the theater company received recognition this year when National Youth Arts Awards recognized four VYT performers as Outstanding Lead Actors or Actresses in a Musical (“Shrek the Musical”) and two Outstanding Supporting Actresses in a Musical (“Seussical the Musical”) during the 2014 Western Regional Ceremony Sept 7.

The organization has also announced the last two productions in its 2014-15 season as “The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley” in April at VYT and “Into the Woods” in June at the Herberger Theater Center.

The performance of “Flat Stanley” coincides with the 50th anniversary of the publication of the book series, and VYT is making it a production to remember.

“This isn’t the junior version seen at schools,” says Bobb Cooper, producing artistic director. “It’s one that features music written for more mature voices like those heard in VYT productions.”

The “Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley” is based on the children’s

book “Flat Stanley” by Jeff Brown and features lyrics by Timothy Allen McDonald and Jonathan K. Waller; music by Waller, McDonald, David Weinstein and Stephen Gabriel and musical book by McDonald, who is known for his work on such productions as “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory” and “James and the Giant Peach.”

“Into the Woods” is also scheduled to coincide with the work’s larger impact.

“The film version is scheduled to open this Christmas,” says Cooper. “So we’re hoping to lasso some of that momentum after it comes out on DVD in early 2015 and introduce the live musical version to a whole new audience.”

The theatrical version features Tony Award-winning music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and a musical book by James Lapine. Both men collaborated on the Broadway productions of “Sunday in the Park with George” and “Passion.”

Auditions for “Flat Stanley” are Tuesday, Feb. 10, and Wednesday, Feb. 11. Auditions for “Into the Woods” Tuesday, April 14, and Wednesday, April 15. Both are subject to change. Interested performers are encouraged to check www.vyt.com/on-stage/ auditions for any updates.

Tickets go on sale for “Flat Stanley” Monday, Feb. 2, and for “Into the Woods” Monday, March 30.

Class registration at VYT

If you would like to help your little ones build character—while playing a character—register them for performing arts classes at Valley Youth Theatre.

Classes are available for ages ranging from three and four for “Play Pretend” classes, up to 19-years-old for classes including musical theater, improv and scene work. (Auditions are required for the improv class.) Classes are offered weekly for eight weeks, with a showcase at the end. For times, dates, prices and more information, visit www.vyt.com/education/classinformation.

Mannheim Steamroller defies odds with long career

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Early in his career, Mannheim Steamroller mastermind Chip Davis was told by retailers not to create Christmas music because that spells doom for anyone’s career.

“‘When they can’t think of something else to do, they’d write a Christmas album,’” he recalls them saying.

That wasn’t the case for University of Michigan-educated Davis. He and his indie label, American Gramaphone Records, recently released “Mannheim Steamroller 30/40,” which celebrates the 30th anniversary of Davis’ first Christmas record and the 40th anniversary of the debut of the iconic Fresh Aire series. He attributes his success to two things: The multiple generations who enjoy his performances and the fact that Mannheim Steamroller only tours once a year.

“When you come to a Mannheim concert it’s not unusual to see grandma and grandpa, mom and dad, and the kids,” Davis says.

“The mom and dad of today are bringing their kids and they were the kids of before. You’ll see three generations all at the same concert sitting together. Another thing that’s key is it only comes at Christmastime. It’s not like when a hit record comes out and, for a year, the record company pounds it down everybody’s throats and you get to where you can’t escape it. Ours is only out there for six weeks.”

Davis figures that his two teams of touring bands perform about 100 concerts a season. He won’t personally be in Arizona when Mannheim Steamroller plays ASU Gammage on Friday, Dec. 26.

“There are two bands out traveling and then, in December, I am in Orlando being a third company doing ‘The Grinch Who Stole Christmas’ for Universal Studios,” he says.

“This will be my seventh year and they want to extend it another three. So I’ll be there 10 years. It’s a fun thing to do because it’s just on weekends.”

If he wasn’t doing “The Grinch,” he probably still wouldn’t be touring, says Davis, 67.

“I couldn’t do that at this age,” he says with a laugh. “That’s a younger man’s game. They’re traveling on buses, sleeping on buses. It’s difficult. They’re at an age when they think it’s adventurous.”

Nevertheless, the shows will still have Davis’ touch. Fans can expect “the usual types of things.”

“Of course we have the live performance of the music, an orchestra and the multimedia show that goes with it,” he says. “Sometimes we’ll have background visuals, like a full film that’s the size of the whole stage, synchronized lighting and special effects, like fog when it’s appropriate. That’s what I’ve done for several years. A lot of things, they change, but it’s the same basic idea.”

That includes some of his favorite merchandise like his cinnamon hot chocolate.

“It’s hot chocolate made with Madagascar cinnamon,” Davis explains. “We’ve sold 80 tons of it over the years. Particularly around the Christmas season, it’s kind of nice to have hot chocolate around.”

Each year, though, Davis adds new technology, that is researched by his team of engineers who constantly are reading

HITTING THE STAGE: Mannheim Steamroller plays ASU Gammage on Dec. 26. Submitted photo

manuals about upgrades.

“I’ve got two engineers, one works with me every day,” he says. “I wrote a track for a horse the other day. We have to send it out to the trainers in California today.”

Davis is admittedly a little bummed that he won’t make it to Arizona, as he’s a big fan of Canyon Ranch luxury spa in Tucson.

“It’s an incredible facility,” he says. “It’s a big facility with several features to it, including medical. They have exercise, diet, the whole nine yards. It’s all done hacienda style. There are morning walks in the desert with guides who go out and show you what’s growing in the desert. I have many friends there.”

At the time of the interview, he was at home on his ranch/compound in Nebraska.

“After my last interview, I went to see what my horse was doing,” he says. ‘I have four horses in a pasture. I walked out and I could see them three pastures over. They all respond if I call their names. They’re like dogs. When they hear dad’s voice, they think carrots or apples are involved.”

Part of his property—a seven-acre compound—features two 200-pound Timberwolves.

“They’re so fun. The one, he’s a beautiful white Timberwolf and just full of kisses. He usually knocks my glasses off to see my face,” he says.

But back to Mannheim Steamroller, the show boats a full venue experience. Past shows have included the scent of flowers when they appear on the large screen.

“We try to hit all the senses,” he says.

“I have a really fun time designing all these crazy things, finding different ways to hit the senses. I want to make people laugh, make people cry, reach into the heartstrings, bring back some memories from the past. At the end when we play ‘Silent Night,’ it’s been around so long, people go back to memories of their families and Christmas.”

Mannheim Steamroller performs at 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 26, at ASU Gammage, 1200 S. Forest Ave., Tempe. Tickets are $36 to $101. For more information, call (800) 745-3000 or visit www.ticketmaster.com.

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski is the executive editor of the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at christina@santansun. com.

Carnival of Illusion in Phoenix and Mesa

Guests are invited to step right up and enjoy a night of magic as the Carnival of Illusion, a top-rated show that produces and presents weekly live performances blending the charm of a Vaudeville-inspired road show with around-the-world themes, performs Saturday, Dec. 20, at the Arizona Biltmore Resort, 2400 E. Missouri Ave., Phoenix.

The show, now in its sixth season, also has performances coming up in 2015 at the Biltmore and the Mesa Arts Center, its newest venue, as well as in Tuscon. Performances will be at 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. Dec. 20.

“Our boutique theater has grown so much in the last two seasons. We are excited to enter our third year at the Arizona Biltmore Resort and also to add

performances for the East Valley at the Mesa Arts Center,” says illusionist Roland Sarlot.

Susan Eyed, Sarlot’s partner in performance and well known as a leading female magician, adds, “What began as a concept of an intimate illusion show has turned into a weekly sold-out attraction for tourists and locals.”

Sarlot and Eyed are the national recipients for “Excellence in Magic” and have performed as house entertainers at the world’s top resorts, for Fortune 100 CEOs, to the 200 Most Powerful Women in America as one of the top attractions in Phoenix and Tucson.

Tickets and show times are available at www.carnivalofillusion.com or (480) 359SHOW.

Choir has ‘Merry Little Christmas’ in Mesa

The Chandler Children’s Choir will perform its holiday show, “A Merry Little Christmas Concert,” from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, at the First United Methodist Church of Mesa, 15 E. First Ave. Classics like “The Christmas Song” and “Carol of the Bells” will be performed, and holiday grouches will even find enjoyment in “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch.”

Other tunes in the program include “The Nutcracker...in About Three Minutes,” “Silver Bells,” “Let it Snow” and other favorite holiday songs. The $10 admission will help support the Chandler Children’s Choir. Call (480) 6999846 or visit www.chandlerchildrenschoir. org for tickets or more information.

Paula Poundstone rings in New Year with laughs

Guests are invited to ring in the New Year with laughter, as the Mesa Arts Center’s Ikeda Theatre welcomes comedian Paula Poundstone at 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31.

Twenty-five years ago Poundstone climbed on a Greyhound bus and traveled across the country, stopping in at open mic nights at comedy clubs as she went. A high school dropout, she went on to become one of the great humorists of our time. You can hear her through your laughter as a regular panelist on NPR’s popular rascal of a weekly news quiz show, “Wait, Wait ... Don’t Tell Me.” She also tours regularly, performing standup comedy across the country.

“No two shows I do are the same,” Poundstone says. “It’s not that I don’t repeat material. I do. My shows, when they’re good, and I like to think they often are, are like a cocktail party. When you first get there, you talk about how badly you got lost and how hard it was to find parking. Then you tell a story about your kids or what you just saw on the news. You meet some new people and ask them about themselves. Then, someone says, ‘Tell that story you used to tell,’ and then someone on the other side of the room spills a drink, and you mock them. No one ever applauds me when I leave a party, though. I think they high five.”

Not one to pigeonhole herself as a “female comedian,” Poundstone not only shot through the glass ceiling, she never acknowledged that it was there. In the early 1990s she was the first woman to win the cable ACE for Best Standup Comedy Special and the first woman to perform standup at the White House Correspondents dinner.

In March 2013, Poundstone joined Whoopi Goldberg, Joan Rivers and several other prominent women

in comedy for a feature-length documentary produced by Lionsgate for Showtime entitled, “Why We Laugh Too: Women of Comedy.” In November 2012 in Washington D.C., Poundstone was honored, along with NPR correspondent Nina Totenberg, New York Times columnist David Brooks and New Yorker cartoon editor Bob Mankoff, with the 2012 Moment Magazine Creativity Award at its 35th anniversary symposium and dinner.

Just weeks later Poundstone was

selected to interview Calvin Trillin for Writers Bloc, a series that presents conversations between the featured author and another interesting thinker. Poundstone has starred in comedy specials on HBO and BRAVO, won an Emmy Award, served as “official correspondent” for “The Tonight Show” during the 1992 Presidential race and pioneered the art of backstage commentary during an Emmy telecast. She is included in countless compendia featuring comedic influences

in film, television and print, most recently “We Killed: The Rise of Women in American Comedy.” Poundstone is also a regular guest on “The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson,” and is occasionally featured on NPR’s “All Things Considered,” and much more. Ikeda Theatre is located at One E. Main St., Mesa. Tickets for the New Year’s Eve show are $35 to $90. To purchase tickets or for more information, call (480) 644-6500 or visit www.mesaartscenter.com.

Exhibitions showcase unique photography at Art Intersection

Art Intersection, located at 207 N. Gilbert Road, Suite 201, Gilbert, is hosting two exhibitions through Saturday, Jan. 10. “Mimesis,” displayed in the North Gallery, is the debut exhibition of Art Intersection’s artist-in-residence, Claire A. Warden. Warden’s work consists of largescale constructed, abstract photographs that contain elements of the organic and inorganic.

Warden uses these elements as representations for the inherent biological and sociocultural forces that stimulate the

emergence of an identity. She presents a series of images that strive to reveal truths of identity and simultaneously the inadequacies of language to describe the self. Resembling visual representations of the natural sciences — microscopic, topographic and celestial — the photographs serve as an allegory for the complexity of systems that make up an individual and self-perception.

For “Best of Light Sensitive 2014,” hanging in the South Gallery, Art Intersection Staff selected three artists

from 89 in the Light Sensitive exhibition, the gallery’s signature traditional photography exhibition, to showcase. This year, writer and founder of photography community f295, Tom Persinger, juried “Light Sensitive” and selected work for the exhibition in March and April 2014.

Art Intersection is located in Downtown Gilbert, at the corner of Gilbert and Elliot roads, and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information call (480) 361-1118 or visit www. artintersection.com.

Seize the day with Carpe Diem, other shows at GCAC

The Gold Canyon Arts Council will host Carpe Diem presenting “Strings Without Boundaries” at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16, at the Gold Canyon United Methodist Church, 6640 S. Kings Ranch Road, Gold Canyon.

Carpe Diem is an eclectic string ensemble that has earned widespread audience acclaim for their electrifying performances. In addition to a traditional quartet repertoire, their programs include passion for gypsy, tango, folk, pop and jazz-inspired music. The Washington Post commented, “Among those contemporary quartets who speak in different tongues, the Carpe Diem is the best one out there.”

The group seeks out and is sought after by artists from different musical genres for collaboration. They have performed with artists like guitarist Willy Porter, Latin Grammy artist Raul Juarena, clarinetist David Krakauer and cellist Yo-Yo Ma.

Free festival showcases art

The 15th annual Gold Canyon Arts Festival, a free event to be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 24, at the Gold Canyon United Methodist Church, will display the work of artists from around the state. The Gold Canyon Arts Council considers the event, with no admission fee and free parking, a gift to its community.

A juried art show will feature the work of over 85 artists from throughout the state in a wide variety of genres and styles. Many participating artists call this event the state’s best one-day show based on sales and a turnout of nearly 6,000 people last year. Programs will be available listing the artists, their specialties and an entertainment schedule.

Musicians and dancers will perform throughout the day; this year’s performers are The Lamplighters barbershop quartet, the Jacome Flamenco Dancers, the Diamondback Brothers and other Native American and Southwestern groups. A variety of foods and beverages will be available for purchase, and the Gold Canyon Food Bank will have a table present for anyone who wishes to donate.

Each year, the festival chooses a regional artist to create a commemorative festival poster. This

year’s poster, by artist Lois Mahoney, will be for sale in limited numbers at the council’s tent.

The Gold Canyon Arts Council, a nonprofit organization, strives to bring affordable arts to the East Valley through its Canyon Sounds Performing Artist Series. All proceeds from five annual performances, memberships and grants are returned to school music programs through artist residencies.

Learn more about the festival at www.gcartsfest.com and the Arts Council at www.gcac1.com.

World-renowned harp ensemble plays in Gold Canyon

The Gold Canyon Arts Council will also host HarpFusion, the largest harp ensemble in the world, at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13, at GCUMC.

The ensemble from University of Arizona was named for its unique fusion of different musical styles and cultures and has a repertoire that includes classical, jazz, new age and folk music.

The music is arranged by the group’s

members, who are all students of Carrol McLaughlin, distinguished professor of harp at the University of Arizona. They have recorded numerous CDs and DVDs and have been featured in Russia, Korea, Japan, Brazil, throughout Europe and at the 2010 World Expo in Shanghai.

Quartetto

Gelato

Quartetto Gelato, an eclectic group bringing together the sounds of strings, vocals, accordion and horns, will perform at GCUMC at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27.

The quartet plays a wide variety of pieces, including tangos, romantic tenor arias and classical music, and is also known for its stage presence and relaxed humor.

Early in its career, the quartet won NPR “Performance Today’s” Debut Artist of the Year award. The group’s first DVD, “Quartetto Gelato in Wine Country!” was selected by PBS for broadcast. They have also won Best Classical Ensemble at the Canadian Independent Music Awards.

ECLECTIC QUARTET: Award-winning musical group Quartetto Gelato is set to perform in Gold Canyon Feb. 27. Submitted photo

Advance tickets for the performances by Carpe Diem, HarpFusion and Quartetto Gelato are $25 for adults and $5 for students. Tickets are available at Canyon Rose Storage, 6405 S. Kings Ranch Road, Gold Canyon, and at the Apache Junction Chamber of Commerce, 567 W. Apache Trail, Apache Junction. Tickets are also available via PayPal at www.gcac1.com/ cynsnds.html. Adult tickets at the door are $30.

The Gold Canyon Arts Council promotes the performing and visual arts through its Canyon Sounds Artist Series. The council is supported in part by grants from the Arizona Commission on the Arts, Western States Arts Federation and the National Endowment for the Arts and local businesses.

For more information visit www. gcac1.com.

ON STAGE VENUE INDEX

CCA—Chandler Center for the Arts

250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler Tickets: (480) 782-2680, www. chandlercenter.org

GCC—Gold Canyon United Methodist Church

6640 S. Kings Ranch Road, Gold Canyon Tickets: www.gcac1.com/cynsnds.html

MAC—Mesa Arts Center

One E. Main St., Mesa Tickets: (480) 644-6500, www. mesaartscenter.com

MDN—Maya Day + Nightclub

7333 E. Indian Plaza, Scottsdale Tickets: www.MayaClubAZ.com, www. sletickets.com

MIM—Musical Instrument Museum

4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix Tickets: www.mimmusictheater.themim. org

MN—MusicaNova

Central United Methodist Church, 1875 N. Central Ave., Phoenix Tickets: (480) 585-4485, www. musicanovaaz.com

S55—Space 55

636 E. Pierce St., Phoenix Tickets: (602) 663-4032, www.space55.org

TCA—Tempe Center for the Arts

700 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe Tickets: (480) 350-2822, www.tca. ticketforce.com

“7 Minutes Under the Mistletoe,” Saturday, Dec. 20, S55. A no-holdsbarred, anything-goes holiday variety show, with new performers every seven minutes.

“An Irish Christmas,” Saturday, Dec. 20, MAC. This popular show features dancing through the generations over brooms and on half doors, performances of “Silent Night,” “Little Drummer Boy” and “Carol of the Bells,” music of the pipes, flutes, fiddles, button accordion and more.

“A Bloody Mary Christmas,” through Sunday, Dec. 21, S55. A holiday musical for people who hate the holidays and musicals. Sun City retirees Blanche, Bertha and Mabel sing, dance and drink themselves silly as they battle a heartless homeowner’s association that tries to evict them from their condo on Christmas Eve.

Zoppé Family Circus, Friday, Dec. 26, to Sunday, Jan. 4, CCA. The circus comes to town as the Zoppé family, which has been performing for 170 years and six generations, brings this intimate one-ring circus to Chandler Center for the Arts’ West Lawn.

“Junie B. in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells,” through Sunday, Dec. 28, TCA. Everyone’s favorite feisty first grader, along with the other kids in Room One, learn lessons and cause mayhem as they gear up for the holiday celebration.

“Escape to the Orient,” Wednesday, Dec. 31, MDN. Swedish, Grammynominated music producer and DJ Adrian Lux, known for his single track hit “Teenage Crime,” as well as “Can’t Sleep,” “Damaged” and “Wild Child” will perform hits at this New Year’s Eve celebration.

“Paula Poundstone’s New Year’s Eve,” Wednesday, Dec. 31, MAC. Paula Poundstone, known from television, radio, stages across the country, and as a regular panelist on “Wait, Wait, Don’t Tell Me...” helps audiences celebrate New Year’s Eve with laughter.

Young Performers Concert Series, Sunday, Jan. 11, MIM. Arizona Musicfest partners with the Musical Instrument Museum to showcase talented young musicians.

“Unexpected Affinities,” Sunday, Jan. 11, MN. Local chamber group Paradise Winds join the MusicaNova Orchestra for the world premiere of Graham

Cohen’s “Unexpected Affinities,” a concerto grosso commissioned by the Selznick Tikkun Olam Foundation in honor of Holocaust survivors Max and Nina Gurin.

Fab Four, Friday, Jan. 16, MAC. The ultimate tribute band pays homage to The Beatles with classic favorites like “Can’t Buy Me Love,” “Yesterday,” “A Day In The Life,” “Twist And Shout,” “Here Comes The Sun” and “Hey Jude.”

Carpe Diem String Quartet, Friday, Jan. 16, GCC. This unique string quartet blends a traditional string repertoire with sounds of a passion for tango, folk, pop, rock, jazz-inspired music and more. Part of the Canyon Sounds Artist Series presented by the Gold Canyon Arts Council.

Alpin Hong, Friday, Jan. 16, CCA. Alpin Hong, called “a pianistic firebrand” by the New York Times and a fierce supporter of musical education, performs in his inspirational and energetic style.

African Children’s Choir, Sunday, Jan. 18, CCA. African children, seven to 10 years old — many of whom have lost parents through war, famine and disease — take the stage to sing African tunes including well-loved children’s songs, hand

clapping, traditional spirituals and contemporary music. The choir helps raise awareness for children’s needs in Africa and supports the program, which provides unique opportunities for the children involved.

Travis Tritt, Sunday, Jan. 25, CCA. Enjoy an up close and personal evening of music with two-time Grammy winning and three-time CMA winning country artist Travis Tritt.

“Camelot,” Friday, Jan. 23 through Sunday, Jan. 25, MAC. The legendary tale of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table told through Lerner and Loewe’s enchanting melodies and a classic stage performance.

Celebrating the Year of the Sheep, Friday, Jan. 30, CCA. The Chandler Symphony Orchestra’s professionally trained musicians present a free classical concert.

“The Midtown Men,” Saturday, Feb. 7, CCA. Watch four stars from the original cast of Broadway’s “Jersey Boys” reunite as they establish themselves as rock stars in their own right, bringing to life their favorite tunes from The Beatles, The Beach Boys, Motown, The Four Seasons and more.