Eye Street / 8-16-12

16

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, August 16, 2012

Eye Street Editor Jennifer Self | Phone 395-7434 | e-mail jself@bakersfield.com

Index Women in TV ............................................ 18 Rock Your Socks Off ................................ 19 Eric and Michelle Tolley .......................... 20 ‘God of Carnage’ ...................................... 20 Center of the World Festival .................... 21 ZZ Top concert review ............................ 22 Tehachapi Mountain Rodeo .................... 23 Calendar .............................................. 25-27

Elevate your expectations Tehachapi festival a mountain of fun

BY JENNIFER SELF Californian lifestyles editor jself@bakersfield.com

I

t’s math that makes perfect sense to anyone living in Bakersfield the last couple of unbearable weeks: A 40-mile drive — even at 4-plus bucks a gallon — to shave maybe 10 degrees off the August swelter.

The Tehachapis never look more inviting than they do this time of year from the vantage point of valley dwellers staggered by the one-two punch of tripledigit temperatures and dirty air.

Which makes the timing perfect for this weekend’s 49th annual Tehachapi Mountain Festival.

“We’re just a short drive from Bakersfield and it will be a lot cooler up here than down there this weekend,” said Greater Tehachapi Chamber of Commerce president Ida Perkins, having the good grace to sound only mildly smug.

“That’s a big selling point.”

Weather aside, there are plenty of other temptations at the fiveacre Central Park and nearby lot where most of the action takes place: arts and crafts will be on display and offered for sale, as will the wares and services of dozens of commercial vendors and nonprofits. Add to that live entertainment, 20 food vendors, a gem and mineral show, rodeo, car show and what Perkins calls the hub for children: a carnival with about 20 rides, ranging from easy-does-it toddler amusements to “some pretty good E-ticket stuff.”

Most of the activities (save the price of ride tickets) are free.

“Central Park is a big park, just gorgeous, and it sits right in the middle of Tehachapi, and people come on Friday morning or early Saturday and bring blankets and pop-ups and stake their claim, and just stay there all weekend,” Perkins said.

“That, I enjoy seeing. It can be a very inexpensive weekend for somebody.”

But that doesn’t mean visitors won’t spend. That’s kind of the idea of the festival, whose purpose — in addition to providing a good time — is to promote Tehachapi and its businesses.

“Kind of an economic stimulus is what the Mountain Festival

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE TEHACHAPI MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL

The Mountain Festival Parade will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, spanning from Mulberry to Hayes streets.

49TH ANNUAL TEHACHAPI MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL A partial listing of events; for more, visit tehachapi mountainfestival.com

Noon-11 p.m.: Carnival 5 p.m.: PRCA rodeo

Friday

9 a.m.-3p.m.: 15th annual Thunder on the Mountain Car & Truck Show, Green and F streets 10 a.m.-5 p.m.: Gem and mineral show 10 a.m.-5 p.m.: Arts and crafts fair and park festival, Central Park Noon-8 p.m.: Carnival

10 a.m.-5 p.m.: Gem and mineral show, St. Malachy’s Catholic Church, 407 W. E St. The Thunder on the Mountain Car & Truck Show is Sunday.

6-11 p.m.: Carnival, corner of D and Robinson streets

does,” said Perkins, who said the chamber lays out about $70,000 in expenses. “The restaurants, every year they seem to break a new record. It’s a really good boost for our economy.”

Perkins predicted well over half of the expected 40,000 festival attendees will be current or former Tehachapi residents. Most of the remaining visitors drive from Bakersfield, Palmdale, Lancaster and Los Angeles.

“I’ve seen a big push over the

7 p.m.: PRCA rodeo, Rodeo Grounds, Dennison Road

last five to six years to really focus on bringing visitors here,” Perkins said. “We have a lot to offer the tourist.”

Though she will “eat, sleep and drink the Mountain Festival” for the next few days, Perkins already is looking ahead to the 2014 event, which will be the 50th.

“It’ll be the golden anniversary.

But we’re focusing on this year for now. Everyone gets so psyched up. It’s a party in the mountains.

You can just feel it in the air.”

Saturday 10 a.m.: Mountain Festival Parade (Mulberry Street to Hayes Street) 10 a.m.-5 p.m.: Arts and crafts fair and park festival, Central Park 10 a.m.-5 p.m.: Gem and mineral show

Sunday

Parking There’s no fee, but Greater Tehachapi Chamber of Commerce president Ida Perkins offers a word of advice: “Be patient. Most of it is street parking, with some public parking downtown. And don’t park in the alleys.”

17

Thursday, August 16, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street Camille Gavin CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST

‘Oliver!’ storms the Stars stage Dickens classic a massive undertaking

GO & DO ‘Oliver!’

When: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday Where: Stars Theatre Restaurant, 1931 Chester Ave. Admission: $50 to $54; $30 students Information: 325-6100

F

agin, The Artful Dodger and a clutch of other colorful characters created by Charles Dickens are set to take the stage in downtown Bakersfield.

“Oliver!” directed by Brian Sivesind, opens Friday evening for a 12-performance run at Stars.

“I've pushed the idea that these are characters, not caricatures,” the director said. “It's tough to flesh out iconic characters in musicals, but I'm hoping we do the roles justice.”

A 10-year-old newcomer named Anthony Bacon has the role of Oliver, the orphan boy condemned to a workhouse in 19th century England until he escapes and walks the streets of London before finding himself hooked up with a gang of pickpockets. Ultimately, Oliver leads a happier life but many of the characters don’t fare quite so well.

Brent Rochon, who also did the choreography, portrays Fagin.

Bethany Rowlee, who has starred in a number of roles for Stars and Bakersfield Music Theatre, has the role of Nancy, and Ken Burdick is back on the Stars stage as Bill Sykes. Mickey Farley is cast as Mr. Bumble; the mean headmaster; Julie Gaines as Widow Corney; and another newcomer, Eliana Quiroz, plays The Artful Dodger. Randy Jelmini, president of the Stars board of directors, has the role of Mr. Sowerberry, the undertaker.

Sivesind describes the show as “a huge production, with over 30 cast members,” 13 of whom are children.

“It's been quite a beast of a rehearsal process,” he said.

“There are a number of first- or second-time performers on the Stars stage, which is both exciting and challenging. I'm really hoping to bring them all together into a cohesive unit that does justice to Dickens' story right along with Lionel Bart's musical script.”

One thing he’s very pleased about is being able to again work with Rochon as well as Stars artistic director Bruce

BCT One-Act Festival When: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday Where: Bakersfield Community Theatre, 2400 S. Chester Ave. Admission: $15; $12 seniors and students Information: 831-8114

Tonicism youth productions

PHOTO COURTESY OF PETER W. BECKMAN

Oliver (Anthony Bacon, front right) and the Artful Dodger (Eliana Quiroz, front left) lead the gang in song in “Oliver!”

Inside “God of Carnage” opens Friday at the Empty Space, 20 The Tolleys: The family that performs together ..., 20

PHOTO COURTESY OF ERIC TOLLEY

From left, Dawn Tyack, Vincente Gutierrez and Alisha Mason appear in a scene from “Love Match,” part of the Bakersfield Community Theatre's annual One-Act Festival, which opens Friday.

Saathoff and music director Char Gaines. All three were involved with him in the successful production of “The Drowsy Chaperone” in January, which was Sivesind’s debut directorial role at Stars.

“They are very welcoming and respectful of my artistic vision,” he said, “and appreciate what I

Camille Gavin’s “Arts Alive” column appears on Thursday. Write to her via e-mail at gavinarts@aol.com

can bring to the table.”

Sivesind is still very much involved as executive director of The Empty Space, or TES, a position he’s held for the past year. In an email message, he said TES “is an extremely strong position” and he sees no conflict in his directing shows at other local theaters.

“There is a wonderfully talented group of dedicated volunteers (we've got 20 board members!) who are holding down the fort while I'm out dallying around,”

he said. “We've always believed that theater artists should be able to work in other venues, and I'm proud to have that opportunity to lead by example.”

Part of that, of course, is the nature of the artistic programs of each organization. “‘Oliver’ isn't a show we would ever really consider doing at TES,” he said, “and shows like ‘Avenue Q’ aren't something that Stars is interested in producing, so I really see us as complementary venues.”

BCT One-Acts open Performances of four short plays selected for Bakersfield Community Theatre’s annual One-Act Festival begin Friday at the South Chester Avenue playhouse. In past years the festival has been held in June but the 2012 edition was delayed until now for various reasons, said Sheila McClure, BCT’s artistic director.

“We've been working a lot on the possibility of moving and making repairs to our current building,” she said. “It was just a

‘Bugsy Malone Jr.’: Noon Saturday and Aug. 26; 3 p.m.

Sunday and Aug. 25 ‘The (Almost) Totally True Story of Hansel & Gretel’: 3 p.m. Saturday and Aug. 26; noon Sunday and Aug. 25 Where: The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. Admission: $10; $5 for children under 18; children sitting in laps under age 3 are free.

timing thing.”

McClure didn’t provide any details. A few months ago, however, she did say that the BCT board was looking for a space nearer to the downtown area.

I haven’t seen any rehearsals of the one-acts to be presented but I have read the scripts. All are notable for their brevity and two have casts of five or six actors, somewhat unusual for plays that run 30 minutes or less.

“Russian Roulette” by Mike Bedard is a fast-paced absurdist comedy about four contestants who are playing a deadly game to win an unknown prize. Drew Hallum directs.

“Love Match” is a sprightly comedy that takes place in an upscale restaurant and involves an unexpected mix-up involving six characters. The script is notable for its snappy dialogue.

Written by Chuck Smith and Jennifer Hart, it’s directed by Eric Tolley.

“The Request,” by Ben Lejeune, walks a fine line between fantasy and reality, with a touch of absurdity for good measure.

Tolley also directs this one.

Please see ARTS / 24

18

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, August 16, 2012

Eye Street “Fill Up Our Donation Bank”

“I think there were obstacles in the beginning. I was expected to be cute, and I’m way past cute at this point. I’m a grandmother.”

DRIVE-THRU DONATION DAY

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BY JENNIFER SELF Californian lifestyles editor

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Amendment, which gave women the right to vote.

Ferguson will be joined by KGETChannel 17 chief meteorologist Alissa Carlson and KERO-Channel 23 news anchor Jackie Parks.

“These women are in our living rooms every evening, and you get a sense that you know them,” said Lynne Rosenstein, vice president of the local League chapter. “This will give us a real sense of knowing them.”

The Bakersfield Parks organization celebrates Women’s Equality Day every year by “recognizing women who have done something special towards breaking into careers that are usually considered men’s careers,” said League president Lois Watson.

Last year the focus was on politics, and the speakers included state Sen. Jean Fuller and former and current Kern County supervisors Barbara Patrick and Karen Goh, respectively.

“I think the people who came to talk to us were very candid,” Rosenstein recalled. “That was a program I think everyone left feeling like they knew those folks better and they thought they had an enjoyable afternoon.”

Organizers hope for just as lively and frank a conversation this year

between the audience and the three media professionals, beneficiaries of the groundbreakers who came before them, Watson said.

“I remember when I was growing up, my father said women can’t be on radio or television because their voices are too high.”

But it was precisely her voice that Ferguson relied on at her first broadcasting jobs in Bakersfield, initially on radio at stations KERN and KKXX. “I thought (radio) being federally regulated would make it Carlson easier for me as a female; less opportunity for discrimination, and that probably wasn’t the case. I started out wanting to be a disc jockey and there wasn’t that much opportunity for that in those days. I kind of fell into news.”

But the obstacles that came with being a woman in broadcast journalism at that time were nothing compared to being a working mother to three children.

She intended to stay home with her young sons, but it didn’t work out that way.

“There were a lot of challenges as far as working the hours I work. I always say it was amazing my children survived me.”

One accommodation to career advancement Ferguson was unwilling to make was leaving Bakersfield for a bigger media market, since it would have entailed moving her children around.

“For me, this was my definition of success: to stay here and take care of my family and make a contribution to this community — or try to.”

When asked which of the hundreds Please see TV / 19

ANYONE 55 OR OLDER

TIMOTHY GREEN THE BOURNE LEGACY THE CAMPAIGN I

he contents of Carol Ferguson’s car trunk reflect the unpredictable nature of her job as a news reporter: Jeans, boots and a Tshirt for the natural disasters, and a black turtleneck sweater for more formal emergencies. A comb and small bag of makeup are the only concessions she makes to reporting the news on television (in hi-def, no less).

But it wasn’t always that way for the 30year industry veteran.

Ferguson She remembers a time when what she said was perhaps just a perfectly coiffed hair more important than how she looked saying it.

“I think there were obstacles in the beginning,” said the general assignment reporter at KBAK-TV, Channel 29. “I was expected to be cute, and I’m way past cute at this point. I’m a grandmother.”

But, tuning out the occasional boorish boss, she simply put her head down and focused on getting the story, outlasting archaic views that applied not only to women on television but in the workplace in general.

Ferguson, 59, will offer her unique take on “Women in Television News” during a discussion of the topic Sunday afternoon at Seven Oaks Country Club.

The League of Women Voters of Kern County is hosting the occasion to mark Women’s Equality Day, the anniversary of the passage of the 19th

‘Women in Television News’

Showtimes Valid Only 8/16/12

THE LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF KERN COUNTY A lunch meeting last week with two friends at a local restaurant perfectly illustrated to Lynne Rosenstein just why the League of Women Voters matters.

“We asked the waitress if she planned to vote, and she said, ‘No. I’m just not that interested in politics.’ Which is too bad because politics affects us all. Who we elect affects us all. I’m sometimes glad that people who don’t read the propositions don’t vote.”

It’s the mission of the League to inform and educate the public about issues facing the electorate. “That’s our reason for being,” said Rosenstein, a vice president of the local chapter.

But another focus for the group is the commemoration of the Aug. 18, 1920 ratification of the 19th Amendment, a law that forever changed the lives of American women by giving them the right to vote.

“For those of us who are older,

1920 wasn’t that long ago. My mom was growing up then.

“And women should inform themselves and get themselves to the polls.”

The League is open to anyone who wants to join. Dues are $75 per year, or $100 per household.

The organization meets monthly, and president Lois Watson encourages those who are interested to check out a meeting. Call 634-3773 for more details.

19

Thursday, August 16, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street TV: CONTINUED FROM 18

of stories she’s covered in her long career showcases her best work, Ferguson doesn’t hesitate: a series of reports on the structural integrity of Isabella Dam. “After the Katrina disaster, I got to thinking: What would we do if there was a largescale emergency here? So I started to look into that. ...

You peel the onion.”

Still, for all the meaningful reporting done in local newsrooms, Ferguson said the media in general has been getting a bad rap in recent years, in part because of what she sees as inaccurate and irresponsible depictions of the press in movies and on television.

“They portray things we could never do, like go live in the middle of a prison riot or making things up without getting sources and doublechecking facts. It’s bad for the profession.”

The life of a real TV journalist is “a lot less Hollywood,” she said, but no less interesting.

“I feel lucky that I’m still working and doing something I enjoy. Most days.

“There’s been a lot of zigging and zagging, and here I am.”

Sock it to them: Charity plays role in skating event

BY ASHLEY FISCHER Contributing writer

N

othing says comfort like a clean pair of socks. But for many of the men, women and children who seek assistance from the Bakersfield Homeless Center, clean socks are one of those everyday luxuries they often do without.

Rick Keel, a Bakersfield business owner as well as a longtime volunteer at the Homeless Center, hopes to change all that.

“I think everybody in this world deserves a clean pair of socks,” he said. “But people don’t generally donate those, so socks are something the center’s always running short on.”

After learning of his favorite charity’s need for fresh footwear, Keel founded Rock Your Socks Off, an all-day skate party where, in lieu of the $6 admission, families seeking an afternoon of excitement can bring — you guessed it — a package of three or more pairs of clean, unworn socks.

In addition to helping build

“I’m not just going to go around and ask people for socks. How boring would that be?

This is a great event for kids.

There’s music, there’s lots of stuff to do, and it’s always just fun, fun, fun.”

— Rick Keel, a Bakersfield business owner as well as a longtime volunteer at the Homeless Center

wardrobes from the bottom up, Keel hopes to provide kids and their families with an afternoon of over-the-top fun.

“I’m not just going to go around and ask people for socks,” he said.

“How boring would that be? This is a great event for kids. There’s music, there’s lots of stuff to do, and it’s always just fun, fun, fun.”

While the appeal of a full evening of skating the rink at Skateland is difficult for both the young and the young at heart to deny, Keel has lined up plenty of additional entertainment. There will be music provided by Tanner Byrom and Friends, balloon artists, face-painting, a magician and even pony rides.

And if you’re slightly outside of the target audience for Bo-Bo the Millennium Clown and his trusty sidekick Yip-Yip the chimp, you can try your luck at the raffle, featuring prizes donated by many Bakersfield businesses, including a pair of tickets to Disneyland.

Or you could while away your time between couples-only skates perusing the assortment of local vendors who will be selling jewelry, purses and other fashion accessories (yes, even socks).

“It really is bigger and better than ever this year,” Keel said.

Rock Your Socks Off When: 5:30 to 10 p.m. Friday Where: Skateland, 415 Ming Ave. Admission: $6 or three pairs of clean, unworn socks Information: 472-4511

Keel has set himself the goal of acquiring upwards of 10,000 pairs of socks, which he approximated would be enough to help the Homeless Center clothe struggling families for an entire year.

It’s a lofty ambition, to be sure, especially considering that when it began three years ago, Rock Your Socks Off managed to collect only about 400 pairs. But Keel seems to be getting things started off on the right foot: By the time the event rolls around on Friday, he will have already collected nearly 2,300 pairs —which will surpass last year’s overall total.

That leaves 7,700 pairs left to be collected, but Keel believes that with a little more help from an already supportive community, he can easily reach 10,000.

“This town has already helped me so much,” he said. “Just look where I started, and look where I’ve gotten. This is a dream come true for me, and I just always want to keep shooting for bigger and brighter stars.”

20

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, August 16, 2012

Eye Street

Couple act out life’s journey Theater brings pair together in marriage

BY CAMILLE GAVIN Contributing writer gavinarts@aol.com

O

ur community is blessed with a number of married couples who seem to manage with ease their jobs, their families and their involvement in the various aspects of local theater. Eric and Michelle Guerrero Tolley are one of those couples.

Married for 12 years and parents of two sons, aged 5 and 9, both Eric and Michelle have acted in or directed local shows off and on for about 15 years.

Michelle, 34 began seriously pursuing a career as a playwright about four years ago and recently sold a play about bullying to a publisher in Chicago. In addition, she’s a member of a comedy team called The Tuesdays and is the marketing director for The Empty Space, or TES. “We try really hard not to do the same show at the same time,” she said. “But we have a really strong support system with our families — both (sets of) grandparents live here and they take care of the boys if we’re

working late.”

Both Tolleys will be working together in October at Bakersfield Community Theatre. Eric will direct “Once upon a Midnight Dreary,” a new play by Michelle based on the poems of Edgar Allan Poe. Although she’s had no formal training in playwriting, Michelle became interested in writing at Highland High School, where she was active in journalism. She took criminal justice courses at the University of Colorado, has a degree in massage therapy and currently is attending Cal State Bakersfield.

Eric, 41, has a master’s degree in theater history and theory from the University of Colorado.

He was born in Ann Arbor, Mich., and says he’s “lived all over the world,” including six months in London and six months backpacking through Italy, Germany and France. He came to California in 1997 and currently is employed by ARRC Technology.

With a friendly laugh he said, “I discovered there aren’t many paying jobs in theater. So I work in technical support at ARRC — I’m the guy you go to when your computer breaks down.”

To learn more about the TolPlease see TOLLEY / 24

CASEY CHRISTIE / THE CALIFORNIAN

Eric Tolley and Michelle Guerrero Tolley take time out for a photo at Bakersfield Community Theatre on South Chester Avenue.

Someone’s going to lose her lunch Script calls for some gut-wrenching drama

BY STEFANI DIAS Californian assistant lifestyles editor sdias@bakersfield.com

“I

PHOTO BY GUINEVERE DETHLEFSON

From left, Kim Chin, Bob Kempf and Amy Hall struggle to remain civil as they discuss their sons in a scene from “God of Carnage,” opening Friday at The Empty Space.

t was all about the vomit!”

When a director tells you that was an important part of her prep work, you know you’re in for a good show.

Directed by Cody Ganger, “God of Carnage” opens Friday at The Empty Space. The play delves into the viscera of marriage as two pairs of parents meet to discuss their sons’ recent fight at a neighborhood park.

Despite early attempts at civility, the meeting devolves as the couples turn on each other, leading to the show’s memorable vomiting scene, which Ganger promised will deliver.

“That’s probably one of the most important moments of the show, so there’s no way you can’t do it. Now, you have to come to see how we do it. It is a great bit of theater magic — one of the most exciting things I’ve ever had to fig-

‘God of Carnage’ When: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 6 p.m. Sunday Where: The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. Admission: Suggested donation $15; $10 students/seniors Information: 327-PLAY or esonline.org

ure out.”

Helping bring that moment to life is actress Amy Hall, who plays Annette Raleigh, the wife of highpowered attorney Alan (Jack Slider) and mother of the boy who knocked out two of his classmate’s teeth. Bob Kempf and Kim Chin play Michael and Veronica Novak, a hardware salesman and writer, respectively, whose son was injured in the fight.

The play is a good choice for the black-box theater, according to Ganger.

“I jumped at the chance to work with the cast. ‘God of Carnage’ is also a perfect fit for The Empty Space, because it takes place in one location, it’s hysterically

funny and, more than anything else, it requires a phenomenal, tight-knit cast, which we had coming into the project.”

How close-knit? Well, this isn’t the first time Hall and Slider have played a troubled couple. The pair traded barbs as Maggie and Brick last year in “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.”

Ganger said it was easy to direct the pair with that much history.

“Jack said when he came on board for this show, ‘Every show I’ve done at The Empty Space, I’ve been married to Amy or fighting with Amy.’” Although Kempf and Chin can’t claim the same, both are familiar with the other’s work, having acted together for years and shared campus space at Bakersfield College, where both have taught theater.

Working with a seasoned cast simplified her job, Ganger said.

“Not all four of them had relationships, but since there were relationships at all, it was way easier (to direct them).

“Because it’s a show requiring Please see CARNAGE / 23

21

Thursday, August 16, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Social change at the center of world

BY LOUIS MEDINA Contributing writer

A

t the base of Mount Pinos in 2009, an ambitious three-day festival with a big name was born, incorporating traditional Native American and modern-day storytelling, social theater and song to create community involvement around weighty issues of concern.

Pine Mountain Club’s Center of the World Festival — named after what the Chumash called the 8,800-foot peak in the Los Padres National Forest — has since grown into a nonprofit that will celebrate its fourth year this weekend.

Founder and organizer Shelia Clark, a clinical psychologist and PMC resident, envisioned the Center of the Word Festival — or COWFest, as it’s come to be called — as “a project for getting community involvement with the solving of conflicts” by using the age-old Chumash principle of striving to find balance in the center of one’s world.

COWFest’s theme its first year was peaceful conflict resolution and its main event was an amateur playwriting competition where 10 short plays written in reader’s theater format were performed by community actors, and judged by the audience. Ways of resolving age, gender, interracial, spiritual and other forms of conflict were explored in the plays.

“We got such a good reception out of it, we decided to create a

nonprofit, go after funding and broaden the scope of the festival to draw attention to the area,” Clark said.

The festival has since received two $10,000 grants: one from the Kern Community Foundation in 2011 to teach children the art of digital storytelling and showcase their work using audio-visual equipment; and this year a tourism promotion grant from the Kern County Board of Trade to attract out-of-county visitors by promoting “cultural tourism.”

In 2010, COWFest’s theme changed to eco-drama: humans’ interactions with nature that either create or resolve environmental problems. It has remained the same since. “We stayed with that,” Clark said. “It’s still an issue that is very pressing to our world.”

The format of the festival has evolved as well: Day One still highlights Native American and children’s storytelling, but Day Three now features a songwriting competition. And instead of showcasing 10 short plays back to back on Day Two, this year there will only be six plays, each followed by “audience talkback,” Clark said, “to get the audience more involved in what they just experienced.”

This is an important element of social theater that keeps it from being passive entertainment and turns it into community-involved change, she said. “We need to return to community arts for

community sustainability and to focus on issues that are important.”

Competing playwrights Over the years, submissions to the festival have come from as far away as the East Coast, Canada, and even Scotland. But local playwrights — including this writer — account for most entries.

Amateur playwright Suzanne Wade, of Bakersfield, recognizes the relevance of eco-drama. Her play, “Trash and Strawberries,” depicts an angry earth named Terra who is thinking of breaking up with her insensitive partner, Hugh (humankind).

Wade, 24, said her inspiration came during a discussion she was having with friends about the environment. “I made a joke that if we’re not nice to the earth she’s going to kick us out,” she said.

Later, a friend gave her a flier about the festival and encouraged her to participate.

Mark Fisher, a Tehachapi-based poet, writer and amateur playwright, is competing in COWFest for the third time. His 2010 submission, “The Birdwatcher,” about a suicidal man who finds hope when a nature lover shows him what he’s been missing, tied for fourth place that year. His 2012 submission, “N.I.M.B.Y.,” is about protesters trying to keep a new government project out of their backyard.

The first of my submissions —

“Common Denominators,” which deals with ethnic tensions — was in 2009. This year, I’m trying my hand at directing and acting in my play, “Bison,” which focuses on lessons learned (or not) from the near extinction of that iconic American mammal and its native prairie habitat. I feel particularly inspired after having seen these enormous beasts on a recent trip to Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks.

I’m enjoying working with local father-and-son community theater actors Thomas G. Robinson and Andres Sanchez-Robinson, and Jennie Babcock. Together, we will portray a shamanic-looking God, three father-and-son character pairs and a dying earth in the space of 10 minutes. Thomas, who works as business development manager at Russo’s Books, has added a lot to the play by sharing his extensive theater experience, including useful directing suggestions. Andres, 16, is a junior at Stockdale High School. Jennie is a teacher at Shafter’s Central Valley Continuation High School.

In this summer of record-setting heat and extreme concern over global warming, please consider coming to COWFest to be a part of this social theater experience. As organizer Shelia Clark likes to say, “We hope to re-create at a grassroots level what has helped us in the past to survive as a community.”

Center of the World Festival When: Friday through Sunday. Detailed program information available at cowfest.org. Playwriting competition is Saturday.

Plays will be performed twice, at 1:30 and 7:30 p.m.

Where: Pine Mountain Club Gazebo in the village center Admission: $10 per event or $25 weekend pass. The audience votes for its favorite play in the playwriting competition and its favorite song in the songwriting contest.

Directions: From Bakersfield, take Highway 99 south to I-5 south and continue past the Grapevine. Go up the mountain and exit at Frazier Mountain Park Road.

Turn right and go west on Frazier Mountain Park Road, whose name later changes to Cuddy Valley Road, for about 13-14 miles. Continue west to Mil Potrero Highway and turn right. Mil Potrero is a curvy mountain road for about six miles. It leads directly into the heart of Pine Mountain Club. Turn left immediately after the gas station across from the golf course. Signs will be posted for the Center of the World Festival.

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22

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, August 16, 2012

Eye Street Robert Price EDITORIAL PAGE EDITOR

Same 3 guys, same 3 chords A good ZZ Top show, Review want to hear, ZZ Top delivered a despite big omissions might 75-minute set (including a five-minute

H

ow long has ZZ Top been around? So long, I used to sit in John Velasquez’s two-tone ’57 Chevy in the parking lot of Petaluma High School at lunch and listen to him blast “Tres Hombres” on his 8-track stereo until it became apparent that the bell had rung for class. (I should note that John’s ’57 Chevy was antique even then.)

ZZ Top, that little ol’ band of multimillionaires from Texas, goes all the way back to the Nixon administration. Rock music acts of similar vintage are usually doing free shows at county fairs, if they’re doing anything at all, and even then they’re typically infused with two or three replacement players whose knees and livers still function.

But this is ZZ Top, a musical testament to the rejuvenating properties of enduring baby boomer admiration. As guitarist Billy Gibbons proudly informed the sellout crowd at Bakersfield’s Fox Theater on Tuesday night, 43 years after its founding the band is the “same three guys, same three chords.”

And that’s exactly what the fist-pumping, biker-chic audience of 50-somethings came to see and hear.

Gibbons and friends (bearded bassist Dusty Hill and beardless drummer Frank Beard) packed the house, no simple task at $55 to $125 a pop — and on a week night to boot. Not bad for a 62-year-old (Gibbons) and two 63-year-olds.

The show started promisingly enough, with 1980’s “I Thank You,” a grinding blues cover of Sam & Dave’s 1968 soul classic, and it never really slowed down.

Fans were left wanting more, but not all for the right reasons.

Despite Gibbons’ assurance about halfway through the show that the band would play anything and everything the crowd

costume-change intermission) almost as notable for what was omitted (“Gimme All Your Lovin’,” “Got Me Under Pressure,” “Francine,” “Just Got Paid” “I'm Bad, I'm Nationwide,” “Rough Boy”) as what was actually on the set list.

That said, the band delivered a tight performance that featured the absolute essentials — and by that I mean “Waitin’ For the Bus”/”Jesus Just Left Chicago” and “La Grange” (fortified mid-jam with a sampling of 1972’s “Bar-B-Q”).

Gibbons’ ability to get around the neck of a guitar nimbly was clear — he was 32nd in Rolling Stone magazine's 2011 list of the 100 greatest guitarists of all time for good reason — but his wellcrafted stage persona sells the band just as effectively. He is both engaged and detached, a street-corner hobo who one imagines could pull off a tuxedo with Pierce Brosnan suave if required. His toeheel-toe choreography alongside sideman Hill is great stuff.

But after thousands of performances, the tres hombres of ZZ Top probably can’t help but occasionally phone it in — and that’s the impression some might have gotten at the end of Tuesday’s show.

After a quick change into black rosedlapeled jackets, the band cranked out “La Grange” and “Tush,” then waved goodbye as the credits (yes, credits) rolled across the overhead screen.

ZZ Top continues to try to live up to the magic and promise of 1973’s “Tres Hombres,” which comes in at No. 490 on Rolling Stones’ list of the 500 greatest albums of all time.

The band’s forthcoming recording, its first full-length effort since 2003, has some critics saying a “Tres Hombres”like impact is precisely what we’ll get.

“La Futura,” due Sept. 11, was produced

by Rick Rubin, who has worked with the Dixie Chicks, Red Hot Chili Peppers, U2, Green Day and Johnny Cash. Rubin’s trademark is a stripped-down style of recording — and if stripped-down doesn’t still describe ZZ Top at its threeman, dirty-blues best, all hope is lost.

The aptitude is certainly still there, as Tuesday’s show attests.

Robert Price is The Californian’s Editorial Page Editor. Email him at rprice@bakersfield.com.

COY TOWNSON / SPECIAL TO THE CALIFORNIAN

Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top rocks a sold-out concert at the Fox Theater in Bakersfield on Tuesday. The bards of Texas blues-rock played about an hour and 15 minutes.

23

Thursday, August 16, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

New name, familiar thrills Tehachapi rodeo brings back popular barn dance

BY MIRANDA WHITWORTH Contributing writer

I

t’s a decades-old tradition that brings the best ropers and riders to Tehachapi with dreams of rodeo gold. But this year the Tehachapi Mountain Rodeo Association is bringing more than cowboys, cowgirls and their fans to the mountain community. The rodeo and the city of Tehachapi are giving the town’s residents and Kern County event-goers something shiny and new to celebrate.

Tehachapi Mountain Rodeo Association Organizer Heidi Tully has been working steadily for months to pull together the event and said 2012 will be a landmark year, thanks to a major boost from the Tehachapi City Council.

“We have formed a partnership with the city and added 1,600 new seats, and redesigned the arena with all new bucking chutes. So this is really a big deal.”

The partnership Tully and the TMRA has been working to foster comes with a major price tag. The rodeo grounds have undergone a $500,000 makeover and a name change thanks to a 20-year lease the Tehachapi City Council has signed with the Rodeo Association. The Tehachapi Rodeo Grounds will now be known as the Tehachapi Event Center and Rodeo Grounds, opening the venue and the city to bigger and better things.

“The event center will be for the entire community to host all types of things, from dog shows to concerts.

We want to make this a first-class event center, and the rodeo will be the unveiling of all the changes.”

As rodeo attendees enjoy the new and improved digs, the rodeo itself will be featuring a few additions to the itinerary. The TMRA has teamed

CARNAGE: CONTINUED FROM 20

them to be so uninhibited, to take risks, be vulnerable, it allowed them to go there a lot faster than if they were trying to become comfortable with each other first. They were able to go right there.”

The foursome did such a good job portraying couples fraying at the edges that it slightly unsettled Ganger, who is a newlywed of a year and a half.

“There’s a specific line that Bob’s character says: ‘You see those young couples getting married and they have no idea what they’re getting themselves into.’ I get a little twinge. “(My husband) Kevin is stage manager. Both of us have been in the rehearsals. I’m looking at it (the show) and saying what do we do to avoid this?

To continue to be honest with each other, keep communication open?”

Although the show embraces the baser side of human nature, addressing

PHOTO BY CAROL MILLER

Tehachapi hosts a PRCA rodeo Friday and Saturday. Proceeds from the barn dance ($10 admission) Saturday will benefit the Small Miracles Foundation, a nonprofit that helps families coping with children with cancer.

up with the Small Miracles Foundation, an organization founded to help Kern County families with children battling cancer. The organization helps moms and dads afford the dayto-day expenses that come with intensive medical treatments, whether it’s gas to help patients travel to and from doctor’s appointments or assistance with utilities bills. Tully said the partnership with Small Miracles came naturally.

“Every year we make a donation after the rodeo, and this year and last we decided to help out a family with a 6-year-old that has cancer. This little boy is such an inspiration. You can’t meet him and spend time with him without walking away wanting to help.”

The Sharps of Stallion Springs have spent nearly two years helping their son Nicolas in his fight against lymphoma. This year Nicolas will be

the “god of carnage” (the human propensity for violence), it also finds the humor in life.

“It’s got something for everyone!

These are just very universal issues — relationships, children, money, work, etc. It’s also got humor for everyone on the spectrum — at moments the play is very intellectual, and there is plenty of completely un-intellectual humor — the vomit is, of course, the best example of that.”

With drama, laughs and some special effects, this show is worth catching in its limited run, Ganger said.

“The show is absolutely hilarious! It makes you think, and makes you look at your own life in a new way. The acting in this show is top-notch, some of the best that Bakersfield has to offer.

“And it’s only a little over an hour long, so you can still get to bed at a reasonable hour.”

making a special appearance at the rodeo.

“He said that he wanted to get up on horseback and ride,” Tully recalled. “We told him that this year, if he was strong enough, then he could.

So with a little help, he’ll be out there up on that horse.”

As a way to give the Small Miracles Foundation and families like the Sharps a boost, the TMRA has revived its barn dance. The event will take place following the rodeo on the grounds with proceeds heading to the coffers of Small Miracles. For Tully, the return of the dance is a welltimed blast from the past.

“With all that we are doing with this family and to help Nicolas, we just knew this was going to be a good relationship. And, bringing back the dance feels like a good fit. It really makes sense with what we are doing as a rodeo and as a community."

You can’t leave that one little slice ...

Clafouti, a traditional French peasant dessert, features prominently in “God of Carnage,” as the Raleighs and Novaks polish off what’s left.

Director Cody Ganger, who makes the show’s cake — and it is cake (the origin of the dessert is a running joke) — said she spared the actors in early rehearsals. “Luckily, the cast has not had to eat the cake until tech week, so hopefully they’re not sick of it quite yet. Our clafouti is very unique, what with pears and apples and the secret ingredient, which you’ll have to come to the show to find out about.”

24

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, August 16, 2012

Eye Street TOLLEY: CONTINUED FROM 20

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leys, we sent them a list of 10 questions. Their responses follow. As you can see, some questions resulted in a bit of lively repartee between this well-matched pair.

How did you meet? Was it love at first sight?

Michelle: We met at BCT. I was directing “Six Degrees of Separation” in 1998? 1999? I cast Eric as the lead. I had originally cast Maceo Davis, but Maceo was cast in “Big River” and had to bow out. And that left the door open for Eric and I to meet. I thought he was cute, but I wasn’t looking for a relationship.

Eric: I thought she was beautiful, and even though she kept saying she didn’t want a boyfriend I didn’t go away.

Michelle: He stalked me.

Eric: I didn’t stalk; I was an extrapersistent suitor.

Eric, we’ve heard that you do most of the cooking at your house. What’s your specialty?

Eric: Right now my favorite thing to cook is cioppino and paella, and I’m starting to bake more, but I just love cooking. It is very relaxing for me.

In shows where one of you was a cast member and the other the director, how did it work out? Was there any friction?

Michelle: Ha! The only time there is friction is when Eric is my director. I give him such a hard time. But he keeps casting me.

Are your two boys involved in theater?

Michelle: Last year they were in “A Christmas Carol” at TES with me. Our youngest seems to enjoy it, our oldest not so much. After our youngest had

ARTS: CONTINUED FROM 17

“June … and Other Months,” written and directed by Sheila McClure, is set in the coal-mining region of Kentucky. It’s a poignant, and occasionally humorous, story about a mother and her adult daughter and the differences between generations.

A word of caution: All four of the plays are recommended for mature audiences.

‘Bugsy’ and ‘Hansel’ debut

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Tonicism, a youth theater group that operates out of The Empty Space, is presenting the fruits of its young thespians’ hard work starting this weekend.

“Bugsy Malone Jr.,” a takeoff of the successful 1970s sendup of gangsters that starred Jodie Foster and Scott Baio in its pint-sized cast, premieres at noon Saturday.

More on the musical from the Tonicism website: “Like the film, this wild and wacky musical includes a child's dream come true: a classic pie fight fought with ‘splurge blasters,’ which spew forth ‘silly string’ instead of pies!

With a catchy, swinging score by the composer of ‘The Muppet Movie,’ ‘Bugsy Malone Jr.’ is a fun summer hit with a lot of heart.”

“The (Almost) Totally True Story of

CASEY CHRISTIE / THE CALIFORNIAN

Eric Tolley and Michelle Guerrero Tolley acted in or directed local shows off and on for about 15 years.

his first line on stage, we were walking back to the green room and he turns to me and whispers “I want to do that again.” I thought, oh no! What have I done?

Is there a particular role that either of you yearns to play? Or direct? What’s on your wish list?

Eric: Wow — so many I want to act in. I want be Richard from “Richard III,” Iago from “Othello,” Georges Seurat from “Sunday in the Park with George,” Cyrano (de Bergerac) and Don Quixote. I would like to direct “Dr. Horrible’s Song Along Blog,” “End Game,” “Figaro,” “The Piano Lesson” and “The Bacchanal.”

Michelle: Right now I’m really enjoying directing and getting my own scripts produced. I have so many stories I want to tell people.

Michelle, how many plays have you written and how many have been produced?

Michelle: Right now I have about 30 stage plays — two full-length plays and a mix of monologues and oneacts. I also have completed two screenplays and a multitude of scripts

Hansel & Gretel” premieres at 3 p.m.

Saturday.

From the website: “Think you know the story of Hansel and Gretel? Find out what really happened in the deep, dark woods, courtesy of two policemen who are hot on the trail of a couple of conniving criminals who have left a slew of casualties in their wake ... and that they're convinced are none other than those so-called ‘harmless’ children ... Hansel and Gretel! Set in the world of Nick Tickle Fairytale Detective, this new play by Steph DeFerie is full of surprises!”

Hal Friedman update My feelings are somewhere between pleased and regretful to learn about Hal Friedman’s new job.

Bakersfield’s loss is New York’s gain, I guess. The former general manager and artistic director of the Spotlight Theatre has landed a position as executive director of Rescue Agreement, a nonprofit theater company in New York City.

Friedman and his wife, Abby Friedman, a former Frontier High School teacher who was also active in local theater, and their children moved to the East Coast about four months ago.

“I was interviewing for the (Rescue Agreement) position and a few others

“in progress.” A few of my one-acts have been produced, “Cupid Hates Your Face,” “Never Enough Time,” “The Good Life and Donuts” at The Empty Space, and “So Charming” at BCT. Two of my full-lengths are premiering this fall; “The Bullied” opens Aug. 31 at The Empty Space and “Once Upon a Midnight Dreary” opens Oct. 26 at BCT. I also have a late night (11 p.m. performance) at The Empty Space with my Tuesdays called “Stripped.”) I wrote all but two scenes — those were contributed by one of my fellow funny ladies, Alisha Mason. It opens late night at The Empty Space on Sept. 21. And I am directing “The Unexpected Man” with Kamel Haddad, which opens late night on Oct. 19. I think that’s all I’m doing this year.

What inspired you to write “The Bullied”?

Michelle: I was inspired to write “The Bullied” after Seth Walsh of Tehachapi died as a result of bullying.

I started researching and was shocked as to how many kids had died because of bullying. That led to me talking to my friends about bullying and then talking to a lot of other people. Everyone is affected by bullying, in some way. And I wanted to bring what kids and even some adults are going through into the light.

Eric, you were once a sommelier. When and where was that?

And do you maintain a personal wine cellar?

Eric: I was a sommelier in 19941997 at a restaurant called Bella Restaurante in Denver. Sadly, I do not have wine cellar right now, but I’ve turned my wife into a lush and a wine snob. Just kidding, I am trying to start building my collection back up.

during the months leading up to the move,” Hal wrote in a recent email.

“However, we had planned on moving anyway. Abby had gotten a teaching job in May and I was close to getting the job by June.”

Thus far, things seem to be going well.

“New York is great. For me it is a homecoming,” he said. “As for Abby, she loves the whole excitement of it — the kids seem to love it too. Always wide-eyed and enjoying the sights.

It's an adjustment but a very fun adventure.”

Rescue Agreement, he explained, is a long-term theater in residency with Cap 21 for their co-production of a new play called “Recount.” The company has done five shows during the past two years. Three others, one of which is a musical, are in the planning stage.

As a nonprofit organization, it’s funded by donations, corporate sponsors and its co-producing agreement with Cap 21, an acronym for Collaborative Arts Project 21.

In September, Abby will start teaching at Innovate, a middle-grade charter school in Manhattan.

In addition to his other duties, Hal is teaching a course in film directing and screenwriting at the New York Film Academy.

25

Thursday, August 16, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street Go & Do Today Buck Owens Birthday Bash, featuring Joe Nichols, Jon Pardi, Monty Byrom, Buddy Owens, John Owens & the Buckaroos, 6:30 p.m., Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. $87-$112. vallitix.com or call 322-5200.

Casino Night, roll the dice and try your luck, 6 to 10 p.m., Moorea Banquet Centre, 8700 Swigert Court, #109. Tickets must be purchased in advance, $25. Benefitting The Golden Empire Gleaners. 635-2300.

Concerts by The Fountain, blues, rock and oldies with the Mike Montano Band, 7 to 9 p.m., The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave. Tehachapi Mountain Festival, live entertainment, arts and crafts, carnival, pet parade, PRCA rodeo, gem and mineral show, today through Sunday, several locations throughout Tehachapi. Free. Visit tehachapimountainfestival.com or 8224180.

Free Admission Day, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Buena Vista Museum of Natural History, 2018 Chester Ave. 324-6350.

Guitar Class, taught by Mark Albert, for individuals or a group, Juliana’s Art Studio & Gallery, 501 18th St. $25. call 578-4570 or 327-7507 for class details.

Kern County Mineral Society, meeting, 7:30 p.m., East Bakersfield Veterans Hall, 2101 Ridge Rd. 834-3128.

Kern Green Awards Dinner, 6 p.m., The Petroleum Club, 5060 California Ave. $45.

412-3780.

Taft Certified Farmers Market, 5 to 8 p.m., 5th St. Plaza, Taft. 765-2165.

Voice Lessons, learn to improve your vocal range and breathing, one hour lessons for six weeks, Juliana’s Art Studio & Gallery, 501 18th St. $150. 889-5625.

Accordion Lessons, lessons are one hour long per person for 6 weeks, learn beginner’s techniques and several different styles of music such as Polka, Italian, and Mariachi music, off of a 124 bass accordion with keyboard at 501 18th Street.

889-5625.

Bingo, warm ups start at 5 p.m., with early birds at 6 p.m., regular games at 6:30 p.m., Volunteer Center of Kern County, 2801 F St. From $20 buy-in to “the works.” 395-9787.

Friday 2012 Tehachapi Mountain PRCA Rodeo, festivities begin 7 p.m. Friday; rodeo begins at 4 p.m. Saturday, Tehachapi Rodeo Grounds, 415 N. Dennison St., Tehachapi. Advanced tickets are $13 adults, $10 children 5-12, seniors, military w/ID; At the gate, $15 adults, $12 children, seniors, military. Children 5 and under are admitted free w/paid adult. 557-7336.

Bakersfield Blaze vs. High Desert, 7:15 p.m. Friday through Sunday (free bam sticks to the first 250 kids Sunday), Sam Lynn Ballpark, 4009 Chester Ave. $7-$12. bakersfieldblaze.com or 716-HITS. Fourth annual Center of the World Festival, three-day festival with an amateur playwriting competition, music, Chumash storytelling, reader’s theater performance of 10 selected plays, community jam fest and more, Friday through Sunday, Pine Mountain Club, in the village gazebo, 1626 Askin Trail, Pine Mountain Club. cowfestival.org, centeroftheworldfestival.org or 242-1583.

Los Tucanes de Tijuana, 8 p.m., Eagle Mountain Casino, 681 S. Tule Reservation Road, Porterville. $25 general; $35 reserved. Visit eaglemtncasino.com or 559-788-6220.

River Rhythms Concert Series, 7 p.m., Riverside Park, 10 Kern River Drive, Kernville. Free. Visit facebook.com/acousticriver .music.

Third annual “Rock Your Socks Off,” raffles, prizes, entertainment, 5:30 p.m., Skateland, 415 Ming Ave. Admission is 3 pairs of socks or undergarments. Proceeds benefits Bakersfield Homeless Center.

472-4511.

Saturday “Find Your Classroom” at BC, 9 to 11 a.m., Bakersfield College, Grace Van Dyke Bird Library, 1801 Panorama Dr. Free. Email lkrausse@bakersfieldcollege.edu.

“Make a Difference” Food Drive, presented by Far East Titans; bring your food item, nine-lap go kart race, noon to 6 p.m., Jam Raceway, 2309 E. Brundage Lane. $15, includes hot dog and chips. Tickets can be purchased at the door. 859-1294.

“Stand By Me” Cinema Saturday, begins at sundown, Valentien Restaurant & Wine Bar, 1310 Truxtun Ave., Suite 160. 8640397.

Back to School Block Party, by providing school supplies, music, food games, jumpers, waterslides, puppet shows, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., New Life Community Church, 1900 Faith Ave. Free. 397-8000.

Cat Adoptions, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., or by appointments, Petco, 8220 Rosedale Highway. $65 includes spay/neuter, vaccines and leukemia testing. 327-4706.

Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Brimhall Square, 9500 Brimhall Road and 8 a.m. to noon, next to Golden State Mall, 3201 F St. Free Electronic Waste Recycling Fundraiser, bring all unwanted electronic waste, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Society for Disabled Children, 1819 Brundage Lane. Free.

873-4011.

Health Fair, presented by Spanish Radio Group; 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 P St. Free admission and parking. 327-9711.

Ice Cream Zoofari, build your own sundae, or enjoy a cone or a root bear float, 5 to 8 p.m., CALM, 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway. CALM will close at 4 p.m. and reopen for the Zoofari. $8-$15. Visit calmzoo.org or 872-2256.

Kevin Hart, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $48 plus fee. ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000. SOLD OUT. Lantern Light Tour & Ghost Hunt, 8:30 to 10:30 p.m., Silver City Ghost Town, 3829 Lake Isabella Boulevard, Bodfish. $12 per person of all ages. 760-379-5146.

Model Trains Show, hosted by The Tehachapi Loop Railroad Club, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, West Park, Recreation & Parks District, 491 West D St., Tehachapi. Free. 821-5271 or 822-7777.

Swingtime Under the Stars, dance and picnic under the stars in the village of the museum, music by Bakersfield Swingtime Orchestra, 7 to 10 p.m., Kern County Museum, 3801 Chester Ave. $10 adults; $9 seniors; free for children under 3. 8688400.

Please see GO & DO / 26

26

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, August 16, 2012

Eye Street GO & DO: CONTINUED FROM 25

Sunday

‘CALIFORNIAN RADIO’

“Women in Television News,” celebrate Women’s Equality Day with the League of Women Voters of Bakersfield, 2:30 p.m., Seven Oaks Country Club, 2000 Grand Lakes Ave. $12 at the door.

634-3773.

Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Kaiser Permanente, 8800 Ming Ave. 877-524-7373.

Peter Murphy of Bauhaus, 7 p.m., Narducci’s Cafe, 622 E. 21 St., 324-2961. $30. Visit tgptix.com.

Join Assistant Eye Street Editor Stefani Dias and reporter Matt Munoz discussing local theater, the Tehachapi Mountain Festival and more.

Want to share your opinion

THEATER “God of Carnage,” 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 6 p.m. Sunday, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. $15 general; $10 students/seniors.

327-PLAY. “Oliver,” 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday, Stars Dinner Theatre, 1931 Chester Ave. $22-$57. 325-6100.

“The Real Housewives of Oildale,” 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday, Gaslight Melodrama Theatre & Music Hall, 12748 Jomani Drive. $12 to $23.

587-3377.

“Bugsy Malone Jr.” noon Saturday; 3 p.m. Sunday, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. $10 adults; $5 children under 18. 327-PLAY. “The (Almost) Totally True Story of Hansel & Gretel,” 3 p.m. Saturday; noon Sunday. $10 adults; $5 children under 18. 327PLAY. Improv Comedy Show, with Center For Improv Advancement, 8 to 9:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, Ice House, 3401 Chester Ave., Suite M. Adults: $5, children under 12 are $1. ciacomedy.com.

T-Bones Steakhouse, 8020 District Blvd., 398-1300; Comedy featuring Jay London and Bruce Baby Man Baum, 8:30 p.m. Saturday. $10. comedy.

Team Improv I, learn short-form comedy improv for third to eighth graders, 10 a.m. to noon Saturdays, now through Sept. 8, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. $150. tonicism.com.

ART Toni Lott, featured artist for the month of August, Dagny’s Coffee Co., 1600 20th St. 634-0806.

Jim Bates, featured artist for the month of August, Bakersfield Art Association Art Center, 1817 Eye St. 869-2320.

Exhibits on Display, Visual Arts Small Works Festival, “Paintings

by Dennis Ziemienski,” “L.A. te: Photographs of Los Angeles after Dark,” “Eye Gallery: A Day in the Life,” now through Aug. 26, Bakersfield Museum of Art, 1930 R St. $5 adults; $4 seniors (65+); $2 students; children under 6 are free. 323-7219.

Art Classes, in drawing, watercolor, oils, color theory, for beginners and advanced, Bakersfield Art Association Art Center, 1817 Eye St. 869-2320.

Art for Healing program, classes that alleviate stress, resulting from illness, or grief. All classes are free but some suggest a donation and are held at Mercy Hospital, Truxtun Campus, Truxtun and A St. Visit mercybaakersfield.org/art or to register, 6325357.

Stained Glass Classes, six-week class, 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesdays, Juliana’s Art Studio & Gallery, 501 18th St. $150. 327-7507.

The Art Shop Club, 9 a.m. to noon each Thursday, Friday and Saturday, The Art Shop, 1221 20th St. All mediums. 322-0544, 5897463 or 496-5153.

MUSIC Blues Kern River Blues Society Jam, 2 to 8 p.m. every third Saturday, Trout’s, 805 N. Chester Ave. 8727517.

Classic Rock Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; Usual Suspects, 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Crest Bar & Grill, inside Bakersfield RV Resort, 5025 Wible Road, 833-9998; Mike Montano, 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday.

Lone Oak Lounge, 10612 Rosedale Highway, 589-0412; No Limit, 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

T-Bones Steakhouse, 8020 District Blvd., 398-1300; Elevation 406, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Friday.

Comedy Elevation Lounge, 818 Real Road, 325-6864; Improv Tuesday - Live comedy with DJ after party, 9 p.m. Tuesdays.

T-Bones Steakhouse, 8020 District Blvd., 398-1300; Comedy featuring Jay London and Bruce Baby Man Baum, 8:30 p.m. Saturday. $10.

Country B. Ryder’s Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane, 397-7304; Duke Spalding, 8 p.m. Thursday; Kyle Turley, 9 p.m. Monday.

Ethel’s Old Corral Cafe, 4310 Alfred Harrell Highway, 873-7613; CRS Riders, 7 to 11 p.m. Friday; 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday.

Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 3228900; Vince Galindo, 9 p.m.

Wednesdays.

Dancing Beginner Belly Dance Lessons, 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. Mondays, Centre Stage Studio, 1710 Chester Ave. 323-5215. $45 regular ses-

about local entertainment? Join the discussion by calling 842KERN. “Californian Radio” airs from 9 to 10 a.m. weekdays on KERNAM 1180. sion; $65 combo session. bakersfieldbellydance.biz.

Folklorico Classes, advance dancers/performing group 6 to 8 p.m. Fridays; and beginners, all ages, 10:30 a.m. to noon Saturdays, Fruitvale-Norris Park, 6221 Norris Road. $22 per month for beginners; $25 per month for advance dancers. 833-8790.

Greenacres Community Center, 2014 Calloway Dr., offers ballroom dance, East Coast swing (jitterbug) and Argentine Tango dance classes; $35, $45 for nonmembers. 322-5765 or 201-2105.

Joaquin Squares, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, Rasmussen Center, 115 E. Roberts Lane. $5. 3241390, 325-3086 or 399-3658.

Pairs and Spares Dance, with Country George and The Western Edition, 7 p.m. Friday, Rasmussen Senior Center, 115 E. Roberts Lane. $7; $9 nonmembers. 3993575.

DJ Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; DJ Brian, 7 to 11 p.m. Tuesday.

DoubleTree Hotel, Club Odyssey, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court. 3237111; live in the mix: old school, ’80s and ’90s music, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. every Saturday.

Le Corusse Rouge, 4647 White Lane, 834-1611; with DJ Chill in the Mixx, 5 p.m. every Friday until 2 a.m. Saturday.

Rockstarz Party Bar, 7737 Meany Ave., Suite B5, 589-6749; DJ James, 9 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays. Free.

The Bull Shed Bar & Grill, at Hotel Rosedale, 2400 Camino Del Rio Court, 327-0681; with Meg, 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

Jazz Cafe Med, 4809 Stockdale Highway., 834-4433; Richie Perez, 7:30 to 11 p.m. Thursdays.

Golden West Casino, 1001 S. Union Ave., 324-6936; Richie Perez, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Saturday. Free.

Imbibe Wine & Spirits Merchant, 4140 Truxtun Ave., 633WINE; live music & wine bar with featuring local artist and Jazz Connection, along with 24 wines, 6 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday; 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

King Tut, 10606 Hageman Road; live instrumental and vocal jazz, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. each Friday and Saturday. Free.

Le Corusse Rouge, 4647 White Lane, 834-1611; Bakersfield Jazz Workshop, 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. every Wednesday.

Que Pasa Mexican Cafe, 2701 Ming Ave., 832-5011; Jazz Invasion, 9 to 10 p.m. every Saturday.

Steak and Grape, 4420 Coffee Road, 588-9463; 7 to 10 p.m.

Thursday through Saturday. Free.

The Nile, Jazz Music, 6 p.m. every Sunday. Cost $10 at 1721 19th St. 364-2620.

Karaoke Banacek’s Lounge, 4601 State Road, 387-9224; 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Fridays.

Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Thursdays and Sundays.

Big Daddy Pizza, 6417 Ming Ave., 396-7499; 7 to 10 p.m. every Tuesday; 8 to 11 p.m. every Friday.

Cataldo’s Pizzeria, 4200 New Stine Road, 397-5000; 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday.

Cataldo’s Pizzeria, 6111 Niles St., 363-7200; 6:15 to 10:15 p.m.

Tuesdays.

Chateau Lounge, 2100 S. Chester Ave., 835-1550; 9 p.m. every Saturday.

City Slickers, 1001 W. Tehachapi Blvd., 822-4939; 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Corona’s Cantina, 9817 S. Union Ave., 345-8463; 7 to 10 p.m. Fridays.

Don Perico Restaurant, 2660 Oswell St., Suite 133, 871-2001; 7 to 11 p.m. Thursdays.

DoubleTree Hotel, Club Odyssey, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court; 8 p.m. to midnight Tuesdays.

Elevation Lounge, 818 Real Road, 325-6864; 9 p.m. Wednesday.

Ethel’s Old Corral, 4310 Alfred Harrell Highway, 873-7613; 6 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday.

Iron Horse Saloon, 1821 S. Chester Ave., 831-1315; 7 to 11 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Julie’s The Branding Iron Saloon, 1807 N. Chester Ave., 6 to 10 p.m. every Friday.

Le Corusse Rouge, 4647 White Lane, 834-1611; A to Z Karaoke, 8 p.m. to midnight Tuesdays.

Lone Oak Inn, 8 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday at 10612 Rosedale Hwy. 589-0412.

Magoo’s Pizza, 1129 Olive Drive, 399-7800; 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Tuesday.

Maria Bonita Mexican Restaurant, 10701 Highway 178, 366-3261, 7 to 11 p.m. Fridays. All ages.

McMurphy’s Irish Pub & Sports Bar, 14 Monterey St., 869-1451; 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. Tuesdays.

Pizzeria, 4200 Gosford Road, 397-1111; 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays.

Pour House, 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays at 4041 Fruitvale Ave. 589-9300.

Pyrenees Cafe, 601 Sumner, 323-0053; 8 p.m. to midnight Saturdays.

Replay Sports Lounge & Grill, 4500 Buck Owens Blvd., 3243300; 8 p.m. every Wednesday.

Rocket Shop Cafe, 2000 S. Union Ave., 832-4800; 8:30 p.m. to midnight Saturday.

Rockstarz Party Bar, 7737 Meany Ave., Suite B5, 589-6749; 8 p.m. Mondays through Wednesdays.

Rocky’s Pizza & Arcade, 2858 Niles St., 873-1900; 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Wednesday.

Round Table Pizza, 2060 White Lane, 836-2700; 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesday.

Round Table Pizza, 2620 Buck Owens Blvd., 327-9651; The Junction with host Mac Clanahan, 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays.

Round Table Pizza, 4200 Gosford Road, 397-1111; 6:30 p.m.

Wednesdays.

Rusty’s Pizza, 5430 Olive Drive, 392-1482; 6:30 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday.

Sports & Spirits, 6633 Ming Ave., 398-7077; 9 p.m. Thursdays and Saturdays.

Syndicate Lounge, 1818 Eye St., 327-0070; with Alisa Spencer, 9 p.m. every Wednesday.

T-Bones Steakhouse, 8020 District Blvd., 398-1300; 7:30 to 11 p.m. Thursdays.

Tejon Club, 6 to 10 p.m. every Saturday at 117 El Tejon Ave. 3921747.

The Bull Shed Bar & Grill, at Hotel Rosedale, 2400 Camino Del Rio Court, 327-0681; 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The Junction Lounge, 2620 Buck Owens Blvd., 327-9651; 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays.

The Old River Monte Carlo, 9750 Taft Highway, 837-0250; 8:30 p.m. every Thursday.

The Playhouse, 2915 Taft Highway; 397-3599; 7 to 10 p.m. Sundays.

The Prime Cut, 9500 Brimhall Road, 831-1413; hosted by Ed Loverr, 9 p.m. to midnight Friday.

The Regent, 2814 Niles St., 8714140; 8:30 p.m. every other Friday.

The Wrecking Yard, 9817 S. Union Ave., 827-9192; 7 to 10 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The Wright Place, 2695-G Mount Vernon Ave., 872-8831, 8 p.m. every Thursday.

Tomi’s Cowgirl Cafe, 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, 1440 Weedpatch Highway. 363-5102.

Trouts & The Blackboard Stages, 805 N. Chester Ave., 399-6700; 7 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays, 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Vinny’s Bar & Grill, 2700 S. Union Ave., 496-2502, 7 p.m.

Thursdays. 21 and over.

Latin/Salsa DoubleTree Hotel, Club Odyssey, Club Odyssey, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court, 633-1949; various levels, 3 to 9 p.m. every Sunday. $5 per person, per lesson.

Please see GO & DO / 27

27

Thursday, August 16, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street GO & DO: CONTINUED FROM 26

Mariachi Camino Real Restaurant, 6 to 9 p.m. every Sunday at 3500 Truxtun Ave. 8520493.

Music showcase The Prime Cut, 9500 Brimhall Road, 8311413; featuring local artists, 7 to 10 p.m. every Wednesday.

Oldies

Chester Ave. and Norris Road, Oildale.

Sierra Club Conditioning Hikes, three to five miles, 7 p.m., meet at corner of Highways 178 and 184. 872-2432 or 873-8107.

WWE Smackdown, featuring Sheamus, Big Show, Sin Cara, Christian and more, 7 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $15 to $95 plus fee. ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000.

Wednesday 8/22

KC Steakhouse, 2515 F St., 322-9910; Jimmy Gaines, Bobby O and Mike Halls, 6:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.

Indie Night Wednesdays, see the movie “Safety Not Guaranteed,� 7 p.m., Maya Cinemas, 1000 California Ave. $6. 6360484.

Old school

Thursday 8/23

Que Pasa Mexican Cafe, 2701 Ming Ave., 832-5011; Al Garcia & the Rhythm Kings, 8 to 11 p.m. every Thursday.

Concerts by The Fountain, Bakersfield rockabilly with Fatt Katt and the Von Zippers, 7 to 9 p.m., The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave. Taft Certified Farmers Market, 5 to 8 p.m., 5th St. Plaza, Taft. 765-2165.

Open Mic Fiddlers Crossing, 206 East F St., Tehachapi, 823-9994; 7 p.m. Wednesdays. $5.

On the Rocks, 1517 18th St., 327-7625; musicians, spoken word, poets, comedians, 8 p.m. every Wednesday, On the Rocks, 1517 18th St. Free.

Reggae/ska B. Ryder’s Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane, 397-7304; Nada Rasta, Dub Seed, 9 p.m. Saturday. $5. reggae.

On the Rocks, 1517 18th St., 327-7625; Mento Buru, Velorio, 9 p.m. Saturday. $7.

Rock Rockstarz Party Bar, 7737 Meany Ave., Suite B5, 589-6749; live bands, 9 p.m. every Thursday.

Rock & roll B. Ryder’s Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane, 397-7304; The Continental Band, 8 p.m. Friday. $5.

Trivia night Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; 7 p.m. Tuesdays.

Chuy’s, 2500 New Stine Road, 833-3469; 7 p.m. every Tuesday.

On the Rocks, 1517 18th St., 327-7625; 8 to 10 p.m. Monday.

Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 322-8900; Trivia Night with Dave Rezac, 10 p.m. Tuesdays.

UPCOMING EVENTS Monday 8/20 Bakersfield Blaze vs. Island Empire, 7:15 p.m. Monday through Thursday, Sam Lynn Ball Park, 4009 Chester Ave. $7-$12. bakersfieldblaze.com or 716-HITS. Bakersfield Keynotes Rehearsals, for our Christmas concert, 6:45 p.m., St. Luke Anglican Church, 2730 Mall View Road.

Free.

Horse Happy Horse Camp, for ages 8 to 17, learn about horses, grooming, horse care, riding lessons, Monday through Friday, $200 per child, per week, at Sioux City Ranch, 15101 Sunnybank Ave. 9004880.

Tuesday 8/21 Farmer’s Market, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at James St. and Central Ave., Shafter.

Oildale Farmers Market, 3 to 6 p.m., now through August, northeast corner of N.

Saturday 8/25 25th annual Rubbery Ducky Races, entertainment, drawings, music and food, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Riverside Park, 10 Kern River Drive, Kernville. Free for spectators; $25 per race or 5 races for $100. Email marshas@kvsun.com or 760-379-7785.

America’s Greatest Show starring Bob Eubanks, play with your card for a chance to get on show, for a chance to win up to $250,000: 4 and 8 p.m., Eagle Mountain Casino, 681 South Tule Reservation Road, Porterville. Visit eaglemtncasino.com or 800-903-3353.

BHS Driller Bash 3, celebrating the ’70s, dinner, dancing, 6 to 11:30 p.m., Coconut Joe’s, 4158 California Avenue. $40 per person. Visit facebook/BHSDrillerBash or 3331001.

Cat Adoptions, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., or by appointments, Petco, 8220 Rosedale Highway. $65 includes spay/neuter, vaccines and leukemia testing. 327-4706.

Kern Audubon Field Trip, to Sycamore Canyon in Bear Valley Springs, meet 6:45 a.m., Park ‘n’ Ride, Stockdale Highway between Real Road and Highway 99. Bring water, snacks and binoculars. kernaudubonsociety.org or 304-6816.

Kids Free Day, CALM, 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway. 872-2256.

Polo Community Park Grand Opening, with music from Members Only, 4 p.m., Polo Community Park, 11801 Noriega Road.

Free.

Star Party with Kern Astronomical Society, 8 to 10 p.m., The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave. 487-2519.

Woman’s Club of Bakersfield Indoor Garage Sale, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Woman’s Club, 2030 18th Street. $1. 325-7889.

Zen Road Pilots, 7 p.m., Buck Owens Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. $15-$21 plus fee. vallitix.com or 322-5200.

Sunday 8/26 Carnales Unidos Car Club Show, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Kern County Fairgrounds, Carnival Lot, 1142 S. P St. $10 admission; children under 10 are free with paid adult.

340-1207.

Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Kaiser Permanente, 8800 Ming Ave. 877-5247373.

Scoops for the Troops, for Operation Interdependence, 2 to 5 p.m., Muertos Kitchen and Lounge, 1514 Wall St. $50. 324-2557.

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