9 20 2014 stsn p51 60 arts

Vision Gallery Presents ‘The Little Black Dress’

BY LYNETTE CARRINGTON

The little black dress has had a profound impact on women, as well as the fashion industry.

The Vision Gallery is celebrating that with “The Little Black Dress: Through the Decades,” which is on display through Oct. 25. It marks the gallery’s first fashion collection.

“We put this together specifically for the gallery,” says curator Robert Black, of Robert Black of Fashion and Ford Robert Black Agency in Scottsdale.

“When we were asked to do an art exhibit for the gallery, we came up with a few ideas. But one that I thought that people would relate to, and the easiest, was the little black dress because it is the most classic of all design pieces.”

From demure and understated, to bold and outrageous, each “LBD” is a work of art unto itself. The Vision Gallery’s comprehensive collection is easy to navigate and simple to understand.

“It was a long process putting this together,” says Eric Faulhaber, Chandler’s visual arts coordinator. “We’d always

PLAYING FAVORITES: Little Black Dress

curator Robert Black singled out his favorite “LBD” by designer Patrick Kelly, noting its simplicity in design and fabric but with bold splashes of color and artistic craftsmanship. STSN Photo by Lynette Carrington

wanted to do a fashion exhibition because the whole idea of fashion as art is something that has been fascinating to me for a very long time.”

The process took Black about six months. He went decade by decade, starting with the 1920s, choosing designs by the likes of Geoffrey Beene, Mr. Blackwell, Halston, Tom Ford for Gucci, Norma Kamali, Gianni Versace, Schiaparelli, Chanel and Jean Paul Gaultier. Local designers Angela Johnson, Galina Couture and Joy Li are also featured. A few of the dresses are from Black’s store Fashion by Robert Black in Scottsdale, which he co-owns with Doreen Picerne.

From the peek-a-boo emerald green sleeve and hemline accents on the Roy Halston LBD to the whimsical “mood checklist” LBD by Moschino, each designer represented has left an indelible mark on the world of the little black dress.

Vision Gallery is located at 10 E. Chicago St., at Arizona Avenue. Call (480) 782-2695 or visit www.visiongallery.org for additional information.

Lynette Carrington is a freelancer for the SanTan Sun News. She can be contacted at lynette@santansun.com.

SanTan Brewing Oktoberfest ushers in the season

BY LYNETTE CARRINGTON

The debut of SanTan Brewing Company’s Oktoberfest Lager in cans is among the highlights of the brew pub’s annual fall celebration in Dr. A.J. Chandler Park.

“It’s a beer that we’re very proud of,” says Chip Mulala, SanTan Brewing Company’s minister of craft beer.

Its seventh annual Oktoberfest features beer, brats and bands from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4.

Each year, the community turns out to enjoy polka music, live bands, craft beer and German food in the heart of historic downtown Chandler at Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 3 S. Arizona Ave.

Presale tickets are $10 at Bashas’ stores; $12 at SanTan Brewing Company or online at www.santanoktoberfest.com; or $15 at the gate. A portion of the proceeds will benefit St. Joseph the Worker.

Additional beers served at Oktoberfest will include Devil’s Ale, HefeWeizen Wheat, SunSpot Gold and HopShock I.P.A. Mr. Pineapple beer is at the end of its season and will be poured at the event until gone.

As for food, a signature brat has been developed by SanTan Brewing Company and Von Hanson’s Meats for Oktoberfest.

“We’re going to do our version of a Sonoran Dog using a German brat,” explains Mulala.

A Sonoran Dog is a hot dog wrapped in mesquite-smoked bacon then cooked

CELEBRATE: Enjoy beer, brats and bands at SanTan Brewing Company’s seventh annual Oktoberfest, taking place 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, in Dr. A.J. Chandler Park in downtown Chandler. Submitted photo

on a grill, then topped with beans, grilled onions, fresh onions, tomatoes, mayonnaise, cream sauce, mustard and Jalapeno salsa or sauce and served on bread. Chase Field introduced it this baseball season.

“We had a local Von Hanson’s butcher right here in Chandler make a bratwurst for us,” Mulala says. “They stuff jalapenos

and cheddar cheese into a traditionalstyle bratwurst, and we serve it on a soft bun with our own chipotle bacon with a little bit of salsa...It’s got that Southwestern flair to it.”

Other foods will be available from vendors Brat Haus, Montana Barbecue, Pea and Pa’s Kettle Corn and San Francisco Chocolate Factory. Don’t miss the Von

Hanson’s brat-eating contest at 8:30 p.m.

This year’s entertainment will include Bad Cactus Brass Band from 3 p.m. to 5:45 p.m., 80 Proof from 6 p.m. to 6:45 p.m., reggae’s Iration from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and the headliner, Huntington Beachbased ska band Reel Big Fish from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m.

A variety of beer-themed games will begin at 3:30 p.m., including a beer-pong tournament, bag toss, buddy carry, keg stacking and Global Bikes tricycle races. A kids’ activity area will include bounce houses, a face painter, kid-friendly foods and lots of fun activities.

Locally owned and operated Clean Air Cab will provide complimentary transportation home for those who need it.

“We’ll have a cab stand on-site,” says Brandy Lovato, Clean Air Cab’s director of operations. “That way, people don’t have to worry about calling for a cab. They can just walk right up at the event, and we’ll be right there.”

The company features a fleet of environmentally friendly Toyota Prius vehicles and supports reforestation by subsidizing planting of trees via carbon offset credits. Discount coupons will be available at the event for future rides.

Oktoberfest Lager will also be available at SanTan Brewing Company’s restaurant at 8 S. San Marcos Pl. through the end of October and at Fry’s, Bashas’ and Albertsons.

Iration promises playful vibe at festival

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Straight off a busy summer, the reggaerock band Iration is headed to Chandler to open for Reel Big Fish at SanTan Brewing Company’s Oktoberfest on Saturday, Oct. 4.

“I’m looking forward to going back there,” Iration’s guitarist/vocalist Micah Pueschel says of Arizona. “Hopefully, it’ll be a little bit cooler than last time.

“We have a pretty good fanbase in Arizona in multiple cities—definitely in Flagstaff, Tucson, Tempe/Mesa. We just did a show in Yuma, and it did really well. We always feel welcome and ready to rock.”

“Rock” is something that the Hawaiianbred, Santa Monica, California-based band will do on its follow-up album to 2013’s “Automatic.” Iration—which includes drummer Joseph Dickens, engineer Joseph King, keyboardist Cayson Peterson and bassist Adam Taylor—is preparing to start pre-production on its next record.

“We’re saving Christmastime for recording and pre-production,” Pueschel says. “Right now, maybe half of the material is done. IN the next few months, I’ll be writing a lot.”

So far, the album reflects a “back-tobasics” approach, similar to Iration’s 2010 release “Time Bomb.”

“It’s the next step—a 2.0 or something like that,” he says with a laugh. “It’s more fun and a lot more beat-driven, rhythm-driven. We might do an acoustic track, but I don’t think we’ll do as much acoustic as we did on ‘Automatic.’”

PLAYING OKTOBERFEST: Iration, above, will perform along with Reel Big Fish at Dr. A.J. Chandler Park on Saturday, Oct. 4. Submitted photo

Pueschel explains the key to the album is having fun playing the tracks live. Veterans of the McDowell Mountain Music Festival, Iration is hoping to have a single out “soonish, before the end of the year,” he says.

“It’s the best music we’ve ever made. I’m happy to get in the studio with it. It makes you want to get in the studio, do the work and the grinding and the critiquing.”

Pueschel calls the Oktoberfest gig a “good opportunity.”

“I love Reel Big Fish,” he says. “We’ll get everyone moving. There will be a little bit of dancing, nothing too crazy. We’ll play some reggae, rock a little bit. We’ll just try to get the energy going. We’ll bring it up

and down. Hopefully, we’ll end somewhere where everyone’s happy.”

Iration (7 p.m.) and Reel Big Fish (9 p.m.) perform at SanTan Brewing Company’s Oktoberfest on Saturday, Oct. 4, at Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 3 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Presale tickets are $10 at Bashas’ stores; $12 at SanTan Brewing Company or online at www.santanoktoberfest.com; or $15 at the gate.

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

CSO offers season of musical travel

With the first pops classics concert Friday, Sept. 5, the Chandler Symphony Orchestra’s 2014-2015 season is under way. The pops concerts follow a seasonlong musical journey theme of “Wish you were here,” in which the musicians will explore tunes from Russia in October, Europe in November and China in January. Other performances for the season will include the winner of the Youth Piano Competition in March and commemorative concerts for World Wars I and II.

The Chandler Symphony Orchestra is always looking for volunteers for a wide range of jobs. Those interested in volunteering are encouraged to apply. Anyone actively involved in the community may also inquire about openings on the board of directors. For more information, visit www. chandlersymphony.net/volunteer.html.

The Chandler Symphony Orchestra brings free classical concerts to the general public in Chandler. The music is performed by professionally trained musician volunteers. For more information, call (480) 899-3447, email info@chandlersymphony.net or visit www.chandlersymphony.net.

Ex-Del Amitri singer set to perform in Phoenix

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Former Del Amitri singer Justin Currie isn’t a big fan of seeing solo acoustic artists. But, out of necessity, he’s performing as such to promote his latest album, “Lower Reaches.”

“I haven’t toured with a band on my solo gigs for, maybe, four years,” says Currie, via telephone from his home in Scotland. “I just can’t afford to anymore. If I’m not completely alone, I’m with one other musician.”

On his U.S. tour, which comes to Last Exit Live in Phoenix on Friday, Oct. 3, Currie will perform with Proclaimers guitarist Stuart Nisbet.

“Personally, I would rather go out and see a band,” Currie says. “But other people like to hear the songs really exposed. I can understand why. It took me a long time to get my head around doing these sort of stripped-down shows.”

Fans of Currie and Del Amitri—who is best known for its songs “Roll to Me” and “Always the Last to Know”—shouldn’t expect him to elaborate too much on his music in between tracks.

“The talking thing is not something I do,” Currie says with a laugh. “I find that very difficult. I don’t particularly like talking about the songs on stage. I’d rather just do them. But sometimes I’m quite loquacious.”

Currie says concertgoers can expect to hear tunes from his three solo albums as well as select Del Amitri songs.

“It depends on the night, actually,” Currie says about his choice to play Del Amitri songs. “Sometimes I take requests. When people shout songs out, they generally tend to be a Del Amitri song that people request. I’m starting to hear requests from the first solo record.

“It’s probably 60-percent solo and 40-percent Del Amitri stuff; sometimes more Del Amitri stuff. The thing about the solo stuff, it’s not quite as entertaining. I need those Del Amitri things to stop the show from falling into too much maudlin, introspective lament. It’s quite handy to have that repertoire.”

He says he performs Del Amitri songs that he is “still quite proud of.” Those include “Tell Her This,” “Driving with the Brakes On” and “Sleep Instead of Teardrops.”

Currie’s date at Last Exit Live is actually a make-good on a show at the nowshuttered Western that was postponed earlier this year when his visa was delayed. Tickets for the Western show will be

honored, according to the Last Exit Live website.

“It was very frustrating,” he says. “I felt sorry for my agent, manager and tour manager who had to rebook the whole bloody tour, a tour that’s not making any money for anybody.

“I’m extremely grateful to those three parties. They stayed on board and rebooked the tour.”

The gig is the first time that Currie has been to Arizona as a solo artist. The last time he performed in the Grand Canyon State was in the late 1990s, on New Year’s Eve, when Del Amitri shared a bill with the Gin Blossoms.

“The only thing I remember from that show was a lot of people backstage were getting excited because Bill Clinton’s brother was there,” he says with a laugh. “I can’t think of anything less exciting than meeting Bill Clinton’s brother. A president or an ex-president, but a brother?”

He’s pleased to be returning to Arizona to showcase songs from “Lower Reaches,” which he recorded in 2012 in Austin, Texas. The tracks from the album were a combination of new tunes and songs left over from his sophomore solo effort, 2010’s “The Great War.”

“I didn’t want to make the same solo record and have it be too ballad-drenched like the first one,” he says. “I want to make it big and more poppy.

“Then, in the autumn 2011, I rented a little cottage on the Isle of Skye. It’s where I wrote the bulk of the record. It’s

an amazing place, Skye. If you look at it on a map, it’s a whole bunch of peninsulas all stuck together. It’s kind of cut to ribbons by various mountain ranges. The place I rented was right on one of the mountain ranges. It was a brooding, atmospheric, gothic place to be. I was walking around this amazing scenery. It definitely had an effect on the songs.”

He wrote 15 songs in 11 days—a rare thing for him, Currie explains.

“I’ll write in little patches of two or three songs at a time,” he says. “The whole trip was productive. I wouldn’t write that much in a year.”

He says he’s hoping that “Lower Reaches” will pick up traction in the United States, a place he loves to tour.

“I managed to find a small audience for what I do as a solo artist, which is really different than what Del Amitri did. Del Amitri was a pop-rock band, and it was good fun what Del Amitri did. What I do is good fun. It’s just different.”

Justin Currie performs Friday, Oct. 3, at Last Exit Live, 717 S. Central Ave., Phoenix. Doors open at 7:30 p.m.; show time is 8 p.m. Tickets are $22 to $25. For more information, call (602) 271-7000 or visit www.lastexitlive.com/calendar/.

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

Free outdoor concerts at MAC

Mesa Arts Center’s newest performance space, the outdoor Alliance Pavilion, is hosting FreeFall Fridays, a series of free performances on Friday evenings continuing through Nov. 21. The band Ear Candy, featuring Vaughn “SWIF” Willis, will perform two sets each Friday night; 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. Beverages and snacks will be available for purchase at the pavilion, and FreeFall Friday dinner and drink specials will be available at select restaurants in downtown Mesa from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m.

FreeFall Fridays will coincide with other events on Main Street in Mesa, including Motorcycles on Main Sept. 26, Second Friday Night Out Oct. 10 and ticketed performances in Mesa Arts Center’s theaters.

Phoenix-based Ear Candy plays covers and original music in the genres of R&B, jazz, neo-soul, reggae, pop, blues and Top 40. Their ensemble includes a lead singer/guitar, bass, keys, drums, electronic percussion, saxophone and background singers.

Downtown Mesa restaurants participating in FreeFall Friday promotions include Il Vinaio, Margaritas Grill, Nunthaporn’s Thai Cuisine, Queen’s Pizzeria and Café and Republica Empanada. Customers may inquire about FreeFall Friday specials at restaurant locations.

For more information about the Mesa Arts Center, call (480) 644-6500 or visit www.mesaartscenter.com.

Fantasy, music rule at EVCT performances

A whimsical adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s “Through the Looking Glass” is set to kick off the 18th season of East Valley Children’s Theatre. It will also mark the organization’s 10th year performing at the Mesa Arts Center. “Wonderland!, The Musical Adventures of Alice” begins with performances Thursday, Sept. 25, to Sunday, Oct. 5.

Starring Isabelle Jensen of Queen Creek as Alice, the musical features spirited, boisterous music and brand new characters. The adaptation is written by James DeVita and Bill Francouer.

East Valley Children’s Theatre is also gearing up to perform a holiday favorite, “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” by Barbara Robinson, Thursday, Dec. 4, to Sunday, Dec. 14.

“Moonprince” by Drew Ignatowski, winner of EVCT’s Aspiring Playwriting Contest, will hit the stage Thursday, Feb. 12, to Sunday, Feb. 22. The play follows a woodland prince’s quest to return the moon to the sky after it has been stolen by magicians.

Thursday, June 18, to Sunday, June 28, EVCT will premiere “Arya’s Rock: A Video Game Adventure” by Mark Smolyar. In the play, a teenage boy is transported into one of the fantastical worlds in his video games and must

play the role of hero.

All performances are held in the Nesbitt/Elliott Playhouse at the Mesa Arts Center, One E. Main St., Mesa. Tickets are $15 for adults and $11 for children age 17 and younger, and may be purchased at the Mesa Arts Center box office or by calling (480) 644-6500. Season tickets can be purchased for $40 for all four shows by calling (480) 756-3828 or online at www.evct.org.

East Valley Children’s Theatre is a nonprofit organization that helps children ages 5 to 18 experience the process and product of live theatrical performances by children for children. In addition to its four main stage productions, EVCT offers classes in theater for all levels of experience. Three troupes are chosen by audition to prepare performances and then present them around the Valley at libraries, bookstores and retirement communities. Community outreach programs include live performances at Cardon Children’s Medical Center and Literature Alive, which provides free performances and books for students at Title I schools and public libraries. All performances run Thursday through Sunday.

For more information, call (480) 756-3828 or visit www.evct.org.

Nick Jonas to perform at MAC

Singer, songwriter and musician Nick Jonas is coming to the Piper Repertory Theater at Mesa Arts Center, One E. Main St., at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27.

Jonas has been growing a fan base with his solo career for almost a year. Gaining notoriety with the Jonas Brothers, he recently received acclaim for his new song “Chains,” released earlier this summer.

He will release his self-titled album Nov. 11, via Island Records. “Nick Jonas” will be available with a standard 10 songs and as a deluxe album with three bonus songs. The album is available for preorder at www. NickJonas.com. The first single off the record, “Jealous,” was released Sept. 8, and is available through digital retailers.

The suave, upbeat “Jealous” is a departure from the musical style in “Chains,” says Jonas.

“Both songs demonstrate the range of music I created on my album,” says Jonas in a press release. “I’m really proud of the body of music, which falls somewhere in between ‘Chains’ and ‘Jealous.’ Lyrically, ‘Jealous’ is a song anyone can relate to within any sort of relationship or friendship. I can’t wait for my fans to hear it.”

Jonas also recently wrapped production for DirecTV’s new, original drama series “Kingdom,” in which he portrays a prized MMA fighter. The show, created by Byron Balasco and produced by Endemol Studios, will debut at 9 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 8, on Audience Network.

Tickets for his concert are available through the Mesa Arts Center Box Office at www.MesaArtsCenter.com or by calling (480) 644-6500.

Saturday, Sept. 27 from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sunday, Sept. 28 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

New Outliars club at Chandler Radisson

The Outliars Comedy Club will host a grand opening Friday, Sept. 26, and Saturday, Sept. 27, to introduce its fifth club in the Radisson Hotel in Chandler, 7475 W. Chandler Blvd., on the southeast corner of Interstate 10 and Chandler Boulevard. Shows will begin at 8 p.m. both evenings.

The weekend will kick off with Paul Brittain from “Saturday Night Live” and “Grown Ups 2,” performing with MTV’s Andy St. Clair. St. Clair is a Second City alumnus who has appeared on “Arrested Development.”

The Radisson location will book nationally renowned talent. Past headliners at Outliars Comedy Clubs include: Maribeth Monroe, known as office manager Alice Murphy in “Workaholics;” Frank Caeti from MadTV; Ithamar Enriquez from “The Office,” “The Tonight Show” and “Arrested Development;” Jet Eveleth from a new NBC sketch show: and Jaime Moyer from “Parks and Recreation” and “Jennifer Falls.”

Rick Olson will direct the new Outliars location. Olson has headlined the Outliars Comedy Clubs and helped teach comedy classes and is one of the most seasoned stand-up comedians in the Phoenix area. The Chandler Radisson location—already nicknamed “the Outliars Chadisson”—will host Friday special events and the Saturday night house team shows. Outliars, which teaches comedy in addition to presenting it, forms the house team from students who have finished their showcases and graduated to the main stage. Student showcases are held at the Mesa and Glendale locations. House shows are $10. Special events are $20.

Brittain and St. Clair will also teach improv workshops at Outliars Comedy Clubs. Classes are $35 at the Outliars Glendale and come with two free tickets to see the show and a $50 voucher for improv classes at the Outliars Comedy clubs starting at 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 8, at the Outliars Comedy Club Mesa, 1666 S. Dobson Rd. The Outliars offers classes in improv short and long form, sketch comedy and standup comedy. All classes are taught by Dave Thurston, Second City graduate and founder of the Outliars.

“We want The Outliars Comedy Clubs to be the premier place to watch, learn

and perform comedy in Phoenix,” says Thurston.

To purchase tickets call (480) 7847258.

Corley to headline comedy festival

Comedian Jerry Corley—known for his work on VH1, “Evening at the Improv” and Comedy Central—will headline the Outliars October Festival of Stand-Up Comedy

The festival—with five shows in three cities, including a two-day workshop and comedy class—will give comedy fans a chance to see the process from beginning to end.

The Outliars comedy clubs in Chandler, at the Radisson; Mesa, 1666 S. Dobson Rd. in the Dobson Ranch Inn; and Glendale, 9495 W. Coyotes Blvd. in the Renaissance Resort, will join the event.

Programming will feature Corley’s bubbly, provocative act as well as his insights on crafting and performing comedy.

Corley, a top comedy-writing coach who has written for Jay Leno, will also be teaching a workshop on how to craft a joke.

Other events during the festival include a class introducing newcomers to stand-up and writing jokes, held by Thurston. Featured performances will include Corley, as well as local headliners Olson and Rob Greenspan, who studied with Corley.

“I want to make the Outliars the best place in the world to learn comedy. To do that, we have to bring in the best people. That is why Mr. Corley is here. He is the best,” says Thurston.

Show schedule:

• Friday, Oct. 24, 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. at Outliars Comedy Club Mesa

• Friday, Oct. 24, 8 p.m. at Outliars Comedy Club Chandler Radisson

• Saturday, Oct. 25, 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. at Outliars Comedy Club Glendale

• Saturday, Oct. 25, 8 p.m. at Outliars Comedy Club Chandler Radisson Workshop schedule:

• Saturday, Oct. 25, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Jerry Corley at the Outliars Comedy Club Glendale

• Sunday, Oct. 26, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Jerry Corley at the Outliars Comedy Club Glendale

• Wednesday, Oct. 22, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Intro to Stand-Up Comedy with Outliars Founder Dave Thurston at the Outliars Comedy Club Mesa, east-side comedy classes are held.

Intro to Stand-Up Comedy is $35. Corley’s workshops are $99 for eight hours of instruction over two days and come with a $50 voucher for improv classes at the Outliars Comedy Clubs and two free tickets to any Outliars Comedy Club, including Corley’s performances. The workshop is for novices as well as experienced comics.

For more information about any Outliars programs, visit www. outliarscomedy.com.

Palms under new partnership, continues legacy

The family behind Mesa’s Palms Theatre, 5247 E. Brown Rd., Mesa, as well as other dinner theaters has teamed up with Arizona-based Lonely Street Productions to form The Palms Theatre Inc., which will manage the Mesa theater to allow for collaborative work and day-to-day local involvement.

Prather Entertainment Group is the organization headed by Tom Prather that has managed Mesa Palms Theatre. However, Prather—who lives full-time in Florida—has opted to form the corporation to handle marketing and local daily management, while he maintains an active role in the theater’s artistic direction and development.

“We have full faith and trust that The Palms Theatre Inc. will continue to deliver the same high-quality Broadway musicals, concerts and comedies that our audiences have come to enjoy over the years,” says Prather. “They are committed to our audiences and are looking to introduce new ways to enhance the dinner theater experience.”

The Palms Theatre Inc. management team includes: President and CEO Robert Shaw, founder and CEO of Lonely Street Productions with nearly 20 years of entertainment experience in the world of theater and concerts; COO Andrew Birgensmith, who joins the team from his most recent role as president and CEO of the Tucson Symphony and 10 years as general manager of the Kansas City Symphony; and Creative Director Khris Dodge, artistic director of Lonely Street productions, former Arizona Opera orchestra manager and versatile musician with more than 20 years’ experience playing and music-directing across the United States.

Mesa’s Palms Theatre houses the Marquee Theatre, a more intimate room which seats 150, and the 450seat main stage. Show descriptions and ticket information are available at www. ThePalmsTheatre.com. For tickets or more information, visit the website or call (480) 924-6260.

Art show highlights local creations

Artists of the Superstitions, a group of award-winning artists from Apache Junction and Gold Canyon, will present fine art, entertainment and wine tasting at Art in the Olive Grove, a public event from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19, at the Queen Creek Olive Mill, 25062 S. Meridian Rd., Queen Creek.

Visitors will have the opportunity to view and purchase fine art from more than 25 members of the artists’ group, including painting, photography, jewelry, woodworking and gourd creations.

AOTS is a juried art group formed in 2007 that sponsors five fine art shows every year, including the popular Studio Art Tour in November.

The Queen Creek Olive Mill sells local finely crafted olive oil and offers coffee and food as well as free Olive Mill tours. Art in the Olive Grove is a free public event. To contact the Queen Creek Olive Mill, call (480) 888-9290.

Annual studio tour

AOTS will host its annual studio tour from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, and Sunday, Nov. 2.

The tour has been popular with local art lovers since its inaugural run in 2007. This free, self-guided tour allows guests to visit many of the artists’ studios, which are close to each other in front of the Superstition Mountains. The juried artists offer their creativity in clay, glass, gourds, jewelry, painting, photography, pottery,

ARTISTRY BY THE MOUNTAINS: Many different works of art will be on display during the annual Artists of the Superstitions studio tour. Submitted photo

sculpture, wood and more. The event invites visitors to relax and spend the weekend in the Gold Canyon and Apache Junction area, driving roads less traveled, visiting studios, meeting with the artists and watching them demonstrate their creative processes.

This year, 56 artists at 20 studios will participate in and around Apache Junction and Gold Canyon. Maps will be available mid-October from the AOTS website. The map includes the addresses of each studio on the tour, the names of the artists and each studio’s special medium.

For more information about either event or about Artists of the Superstitions, email artists. superstitions@gmail.com or visit www. artistsofthesuperstitions.com.

PAL goes to the opera

Local opera aficionados can take in operas like “Cruzar la Cara de la Luna” in October—and many more throughout the next few months—with help from the Southeast Valley Performing Arts League, which works to make the performances accessible to as many as possible.

The PAL will catch “Cruzar,” the world’s first mariachi opera, Sunday, Oct. 12.

The league continues to transport members by bus from the flagpole at the Cottonwood Country Club, 25630 S. Brentwood Dr., Sun Lakes, to performance venues and back.

To become a member of the league and become eligible for the bus trips to performances, send a check for $10 per person or $15 per couple to PAL at P.O. Box 13051, Chandler, AZ 85248. Members take the bus to the front door of the theater and back to their cars in Cottonwood. Round trip for members is $20.

The opera performances are at the Arizona Opera Center, 1636 N. Central Ave., Phoenix.

Other operas the PAL plans to attend are (all on Sunday):

“Rigoletto,” Nov. 16.

“Eugene Omegin,” Feb. 8.

“The Magic Flute,” March 1.

“The Daughter of the Regiment,” April 12.

For more information on the opera, call Vera at (480) 895-9679 or for information about PAL call Mary at (480) 802-9354.

“Charlotte’s Web,” through Sun., Oct 12, TCA. Back by popular demand, one of Childsplay’s most beloved productions brings the endearing piglet, Wilbur, the winsome spider, Charlotte, and their friends to the stage with a brilliant version of E.B. White’s American classic.

Australian Pink Floyd, Thurs., Sept. 25, MAC. This show presents Pink Floyd classics, including “Another Brick in the Wall,” “Comfortably Numb” and “Wish You Were Here,” as well as a few surprise tracks.

DSB—Tribute to Journey, Fri., Sept. 26, WHP. One of America’s top Journey tribute acts rocks the audience with the legendary band’s hits.

Damon Wayans, Fri., Sept. 26, through Sun., Sept. 28, TI. Known for his no-holdsbarred comedic genius, as well as the fiveseason run of his hit ABC series “My Wife and Kids” and probably best remembered for his work on “In Living Color,” Wayans returns to Tempe to entertain.

“Chelsea Lately’s” Sarah Colonna and Chris Franjola, Fri., Sept. 26, through Sun., Sept. 28, SUL. Two headliners from the popular late-night show hit the stage.

Edvin Marton, Thurs., Oct. 2, MAC. The world-famous violinist—a YouTube sensation who performed at the Torino 2006 Winter Olympic Games and whose music is part of several skaters’ routines— performs.

John Caparulo, Thurs., Oct. 2, through Sun., Oct. 5, TI. Perhaps best known as the underdressed everyman on the E! hit show, “Chelsea Lately,” Caparulo hits the stage with fresh stand-up comedy.

Latin Legends—Live, Fri., Oct., 3, WHP. A collection of some of the hottest Latin groups on tour—Malo, Tierra and Thee Midniters—each providing a unique sound derived from the music of a diverse culture.

“Mr. Burns, a Post-Electric Play,” Fri., Oct. 3, through Sat., Oct. 25, S55. In this American dark comedy play, post-nuclear meltdown, there’s no electricity, no TV, and the survivors are living in small groups when a few people around a campfire

start to piece together their memories of an episode of “The Simpsons.” This imaginative story explores how the pop culture of one era might evolve into the mythology of another.

“Captain Jack’s Space Attack,” Sat., Oct. 4, S55. Captain Jack and company return to the stage.

Music for Sacred Spaces, Sat., Oct. 4, through Sun., Oct. 5, SDC. The Sonoran Desert Chorale sings choral music of the masters of the past, including selections by Sweelinck, Monteverdi, Gabrieli, Mozart, Mendelssohn and Haydn.

“From Russia...with Melody,” Oct. 5, CCA. The Chandler Symphony Orchestra performs.

Experience Hendrix Tour, Thurs., Oct. 7, MAC. The wildly successful tour stops in Mesa to pay homage to the musical genius of Jimi Hendrix. It brings together extraordinary guitarists including Buddy Guy, Jonny Lang, Kenny Wayne Shepherd and Black Label Society’s Zakk Wylde.

Ralphie May, Thurs., Oct. 9, through Sun., Oct. 12, TI. Voted one of Variety’s “10 Comics to Watch,” May hits the stage with a routine that doesn’t shy away from touchy topics.

“Three Acts, Two Dancers, One Radio Host,” Sat., Oct. 11, MAC. Monica Bill Barnes and Company and Ira Glass, host of “This American Life,” combine the art forms of dance and radio. The acts explore the job of a performer, falling and staying in love and losing what you love.

“Cruzar la Cara de la Luna,” Fri., Oct. 10, through Sun., Oct. 12, SH. Arizona Opera brings the world’s first mariachi opera to the stage, blending the passion and artistry of mariachi with the emotionally touching story of a Mexican immigrant family.

“Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,” Fri., Oct. 10, through Sun., Oct. 26, VYT. A musical production based on the first story in C.S. Lewis’ “The Chronicles of Narnia.”

A Judy Garland Concert with Joey Luft, Thurs., Oct. 16, MAC. Joey Luft, Judy Garland’s son, shares never-before-heard stories of his mother’s personal life and career. The icon’s impact is explored in

song as her greatest hits are played on the big screen, including “Stormy Weather,” “Come Rain or Come Shine,” “After You’ve Gone” and “By Myself.”

“An Evening with Alex Boyé,” Fri., Oct. 17, MAC. The award-winning singer and songwriter, best known for his African twist on American pop and ethnoclassical music, takes the stage with his mesmerizing presence and voice.

Ramon Ayala, Fri., Oct. 17, WHP. The standout Latin musician, now in his sixth decade as undisputed “King of the Accordion,” brings the theater to life with his unique tunes.

Mayda Del Valle, Fri., Oct. 17, MAC. Poet and performer Mayda Del Valle takes command of the stage with her command of words. The artist has appeared on Russell Simmons “Def Poetry Jam” on HBO and was a contributing writer and original cast member of the Tony Awardwinning “Def Poetry Jam on Broadway.”

Bruce Bruce, Fri., Oct. 17, through Sun., Oct. 19, SUL. Featured in the Showtime Special “Losin’ It” as well as hosting BET’s “Comic View” and much more, Bruce’s spontaneous, witty style of comedy has been showcased across the country, and he has been entertaining audiences from all backgrounds for years.

Larry the Cable Guy, Sat. Oct. 18, CCA. Daniel Lawrence “Larry” Whitney, best known as Larry the Cable Guy, brings his unique brand of humor to the stage.

Ali Jackson Trio, Sat., Oct. 18, MAC. The talented jazz drummer hits the stage with his group.

Under the Streetlamp with Gentleman’s Rule, Sat., Oct. 18, and Sun., Oct. 19, MAC. One of America’s hottest vocal groups returns to the Mesa Arts Center to perform an electrifying evening of classic hits from the American radio songbook.

“The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane,” Mon., Oct. 19, through Mon., Nov. 16, TCA. Childsplay brings back last year’s breakout hit, based on Newbery-winner Kate DiCamillo’s beloved book. Centered on an exceptional toy that becomes lost, the play tells a fantastical story of finding friendship, finding yourself and eventually finding your way home.

THAT DARN CAT: “Seussical the Musical” delivers laughs. Characters include Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat, Gertrude McFuzz, Lazy Mayzie and Jojo Submitted photo.

Penn and Teller, Fri, Oct. 24, MAC. Winning awards, winning over audiences and redefining their genre with their unique performances, the iconic duo hits the stage with their singular blend of magic and comedy.

“Seussical the Musical,” Fri., Oct. 24, through Sun., Nov. 2, ST. See your favorite Dr. Seuss characters on stage, including Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat, Gertrude McFuzz, Lazy Mayzie and Jojo. The characters transport the audience from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus to the invisible world of the Whos.

“Viola Concerto,” Sun., Oct. 26, MN. Milena Pajaro-van de Stadt performs for the MusicaNova program. She is a multiple international award-winning soloist and a member of the Dover Quartet.

Emily Bear with Zuill Bailey, Thurs., Oct. 30, MAC. Composing since she was 3 years old, Emily Bear, now 12, has been called the next Mozart. The piano prodigy, who is mentored by the legendary producer Quincy Jones, performs an evening of unique and lively music.

Ziggy Marley, Fri., Oct. 31, WHP. A sixtime Grammy winner, Emmy winner, humanitarian, singer, songwriter and producer, Ziggy Marley performs his signature reggae tunes.

An Evening with Bill Cosby, Sat., Nov. 1, MAC. One of America’s most beloved comedians of all time, Bill Cosby has captivated generations of fans with his comedy routines, iconic albums and best-selling books such as “Fatherhood.”

“One Drop of Love,” Sat., Nov. 1, MAC. A multimedia, one-woman show produced by Ben Affleck, Matt Damon and writer/performer Fanshen Cox DiGiovanni, it incorporates film, photographs and animation to examine how “race” has been constructed in the United States and how it can influence our most intimate relationships.

Merle Haggard, Fri., Nov. 7, WHP. The Okie from Muskogee brings classic Americana to the stage with hits like “Workin’ Man Blues,” “Sing Me Back Home” and “Mamma Tried.”

David Sedaris, Wed., Nov. 5, MAC. Sedaris brings his satire, keen observation, sardonic wit and incisive social critiques to the stage, slicing through euphemisms and political correctness.

Vince Gill and the Time Jumpers, Tues., Nov. 11, MAC. Perennial MAC favorite Vince Gill returns with a country music experience, opening and then joining some of Nashville’s finest studio musicians, including Ranger Doug, Dawn Sears and fellow

Country Music Hall of Famers Larry Franklin and Billy Thomas. The Time Jumpers are an 11-member band that has made major contributions across the country-music industry for the last 30 years.

“Nat Geo Live: Coral, Fire and Ice,” Wed., Nov. 12, MAC. Explore a hidden universe through the eyes of the photographic team of David Doubilet and his underwater partner, Jennifer Hayes.

“He Said-She Said,” Fri., Nov. 14, and Sat., Nov. 15, S55. An evening of solo performances by 10 Valley artists, responding to contemporary and timeless prompts to create 10 totally new and different responses.

Jessica Lang Dance, Thurs., Nov. 20, MAC. Hailed as “a master of visual composition” by Dance Magazine, Lang and her dance company transform classical ballet language and rigor into artfully crafted, emotionally engaging, contemporary works.

The Tenors, Fri., Nov. 28, MAC. This group brings memorable melodies to the stage, blending classical music and contemporary pop.

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Sat., Nov. 29, WHP. Celebrating its 21st anniversary, the nine-piece ensemble swings and parties on stage with its irresistible tunes and infectious energy.

Arts

ON STAGE VENUE INDEX

CCA—Chandler Center for the Arts

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

MAC—Mesa Arts Center

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

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

SDC—Sonoran Desert Chorale

First United Methodist Church, 15 E. First Ave., Mesa and Valley Presbyterian Church, 6947 E. McDonald Dr., Paradise Valley Tickets: (480) 305-4538, www. sonorandesertchorale.org

ST—Stagebrush Theatre

7020 E. Second St., Scottsdale Tickets: (480) 330-5918, www.greasepaint.org

SUL—Stand Up Live

50 W. Jefferson St., Suite 200, Phoenix Tickets: (480) 719-6100, www.standuplive.com

SH—Symphony Hall

75 N. Second St., Phoenix Tickets: (602) 495-1999, www. phoenixconventioncenter.com/

TCA—Tempe Center for the Arts

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

TI—Tempe Improv 930 E. University Dr., Tempe Tickets: (480) 921-9877, www.tempeimprov.com

VYT—Valley Youth Theatre 525 N. First St., Phoenix Tickets: (602) 253-8188, www.vyt.com

WHP—Wild Horse Pass Ovations Showroom

5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd., Chandler Tickets: (520) 796-7777, www.wingilariver.com/wild-horse-pass

“Rejoice and Sing!,” Sat., Dec. 6, and Sun., Dec. 7, SDC. Be a part of this annual tradition as the audience is invited to join

the chorale in singing carols to celebrate the joys of the holiday season.

Phoenix Fashion Week highlights Arizona designers

BY LYNETTE CARRINGTON

In its seventh year, Phoenix Fashion Week will get cameras flashing and tongues wagging as the hottest established and emerging Arizona designers are showcased on the runways. This year, the event takes place Oct. 1 to Oct. 4 at Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale.

“The caliber of designers in Arizona is probably the biggest news story right now,” says Brian Hill, executive director of Phoenix Fashion Week.

“It tells us that the work we’ve been doing the past seven years of trying to push Arizona fashion forward is actually working now.”

State Forty Eight will be making its Phoenix Fashion Week debut this year. It was founded as a fashion label in March 2013 and is named for Arizona’s numerical order in entering statehood. It is a unique and casual fashion line founded by Chandler-based brothers Nicholas and Stephen Polando and friend Michael Spangenberg.

“We are three different personalities with three different styles, but the inspiration was, for me, the passion for clothing… and I wanted to create a clothing brand for many years,” Spangenberg says.

“Stephen and I really started talking about it seriously, and we knew we had a deep passion for Arizona, so that’s what we wanted it to be.”

The sports-minded clothing line

includes hats, T-shirts, crop tops, racerback shirts, Polos, hoodies and other casual wear.

a fun new clothing brand was born. To the designing trio, State Forty Eight represents everything wonderful about Arizona, and they’re looking forward to Phoenix Fashion Week.

“When I went to Phoenix Fashion Week a year ago, I knew this is where we needed to be,” Spangenberg says.

Nicholas Polando adds, “We’re most looking forward to seeing the outcome from it, and we’re learning a lot during this process, too.

Visit www.statefortyeight.com to see the collection.

As part of the Emerging Designer Challenge 2014 during Phoenix Fashion Week, State Forty Eight took part in a four-month apparel “boot camp” where designers learned valuable business skills. The winner, set to be announced on closing night of Phoenix Fashion Week, will receive a $10,000 prize package.

For additional information, tickets and a schedule of events for Phoenix Fashion Week visit www. phoenixfashionweek.com.

Lynette Carrington is a freelancer for the SanTan Sun News. She can be contacted at lynette@santansun.com

Stephen Polando came up with the name, and Nicholas Polando came on board with the design and artwork, and