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explore those with you as well. We even have local brews for when you bring a friend who hasn’t necessarily “found wine yet.
“It’s what you’re doing and who you’re with that creates the memory.”
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This is a place for everyone to come and enjoy each other’s company, talk learn about wine, have a bite to eat and have fun!
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At L’Entrata, we’re here to make sure everyone has a great experience and doesn’t feel intimidated by the wine selections. Let us find where your tastes lie, and we’ll steer you in the right direction. We are of the motto drink what you like. There is no wrong answer. We also have wines for the discerning palate and we’re happy to
lentratawine.com 41111 Daisy Mountain Drive, Anthem, Arizona
NEW! Don’t miss Executive Chef, Josh Bracher’s rotating small-plate menu! Welcome to the L’Entrata Family! Never a bad day with wine!
4 imagesarizona.com May 2022 What's Inside?TABLE OF CONTENTS BEAT THE HEAT 44 SETTING THE SCENE FOR SUCCESS 30 THE BEAUTY BETWEEN THE SPINES 36 10 COMMUNITY 5016RECIPE MISS ANTHEM
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Joseph J. Airdo Graphic Designer
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Images Arizona
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Images Arizona is published by ImagesAZ Inc. Copyright © 2022 by ImagesAZ, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in whole or part, without permission is prohibited. The publisher is not responsible for the return of unsolicited material.
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From the Publisher
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Two years ago last month, when the entire world essentially came to a sudden standstill as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, I described in this space the resilience of our incredible community. I wrote that I had no doubt that its talented individuals, innovative businesses and generous organizations would emerge from the uncharted waters that we had unfortunately found ourselves in stronger than ever.
As I look around today, I am so proud to see that I was right. Over this past year alone, our community’s artists have created some of their most imaginative work yet — and in ways that often expand far beyond the canvas or the stage. Our community’s stores and restaurants are busier than ever, with enhanced services that add value and convenience to our lives. And our community’s nonprofits have found new and improved ways to help those they serve.
While you wait for our next issue, continue doing what you have been doing — creating inspired works, supporting local businesses and helping one another thereby establishing a truly exceptional community that we are very privileged to showcase in this magazine. I cannot wait to see what you all will do over the next few months that we will get to feature this fall.
Publisher,ShellyCheers!Spence
Images Arizona magazine 623-341-8221shelly@imagesaz.com
Submission of news for community section should be in to shelly@imagesaz.com by the 5th of the month prior to publication.
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I also believe that, over the past year, Images Arizona has published some of its best stories to date — direct reflections of the community itself. However, there exist some byproducts of the pandemic that have created new challenges that we are all now having to navigate. As I wrote last month, one of those challenges is a paper shortage.
P.O. Box 1416 Carefree, AZ. imagesarizona.com623-341-822185377
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Images Arizona will temporarily pause publication this summer but its writers and I will remain hard at work as we prepare some extraordinary content for this fall. We will also be periodically posting small stories, podcasts and more on our newly designed website — imagesarizona.com — throughout the summer.
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With bold color and gestural brush strokes, Martin’s contemporary landscape art is captivating and unique.
Martin Blundell
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CONTEMPORARY LANDSCAPE ARTIST
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Photo by Nicole Walker
Writer Joseph J. Airdo
“Speaking to people about my experience has been a very vital part of my recovery process upon coming back,” Rowe explains. “Having been gone for that long and experienced all of those different cultures and languages, it was definitely a culture shock to come back to the United States. And it has helped me process everything that I had been through. It is very motivating.”
participated in productions at Musical Theatre of Anthem and other area theater companies.
Born in Oregon, Rowe moved to Arizona when she was eight years old. An aspiring entertainer, she
Speaking to others with honesty and sincerity has also led to another surprising benefit that Rowe believes may be the greatest gift of all.
One of the many qualities that make Nicole Rowe the absolutely perfect person to wear the inaugural Miss Anthem crown is her uncanny ability to transform a decidedly bad situation into an exceptionally good one.
“My whole plan was to move to New York, go to a theater college and perform on Broadway,” Rowe says.
For example, what was supposed to be a magnanimous 11-month mission trip to 11 countries a few years ago quickly became an eye-opening experience that showed her how a well-intentioned individual or organization can actually do more harm than good. Rather than letting the situation sour her taste for future philanthropic endeavors, Rowe instead set out to change charities for the better.
A PHYSICAL AND SPIRITUAL JOURNEY
During her freshman year of college, Rowe encountered a booth at a local shopping mall where she discussed with the director of the Miss Phoenix organization the idea of entering a local preliminary to the Miss Arizona competition. Because Grand Canyon University does not have any sort of Greek life on campus, Rowe believed the experience would be a good way for her to find a sisterhood.
Wagner tragically lost her battle to the devastating disease during Rowe’s junior year of high school, prompting her to not only become very involved in high school ministry but also change her entire plan for the future.
“One thing that I have learned is that the more vulnerable I am, the more people feel like they can be vulnerable with me,” she says. “When I spoke at one church, I had about 10 people come up and just want to share their life story with me. That was really special to me because you do not get to have a job like that every single day.”
O
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During her freshman year at Boulder Creek High School, Rowe’s classmate Katie Wagner was diagnosed with cancer. Although they were a year apart, Rowe was intensely impacted by Wagner’s diagnosis and began attending church services.
“She was a big inspiration for me when it came to my religious journey and finding faith,” Rowe explains.
“I gave up musical theater my junior year of high school, which was terrifying — especially for my parents,” Rowe says. “I suddenly wanted to be an international missionary and I went on my first mission trip to Rwanda when I was just 16 years old. I then ended up going to Grand Canyon University for communications with a minor in Christian studies, because that was the closest thing that they had to a global studies program.”
“I left in January 2019 — two weeks after graduating college — and did not return home until December,” Rowe says. “Unfortunately, within two weeks, I felt as though my values did not necessarily align with those of the organization. So I was ready to come home as soon as I got out there. But I stuck to it because I wanted to see it through. And I am glad I did because I learned a lot.”
CHARITY THE RESPONSIBLE WAY
As she prepared to graduate from Grand Canyon University one semester early, she came across a nonprofit organization’s social media post promoting an 11-month mission trip to 11 countries.
“ servicemarketinginternetScottsdale’satworkscurrentlyRoweNicoleAnthemMissinscienceofmasterapursuetoplansandMBAherreceivedrecentlySocial,Envidaglxxy.designsbyPhotostrategy.audiencedigitalconfidenceincreaseddiscoveredhaswhoRowe,NicoleforlimittheisreallyskyThe MissPhoenix,Missoftitlesherthroughself-awarenessstrongadevelopedand SmithJ.NicolebyPhotoAnthem.MissinauguralthenowandGilbertMissChandler,
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“I ended up winning Miss Phoenix,” Rowe says. She competed for two more years and added Miss Chandler and Miss Gilbert to her resume. Meanwhile, her aspirations for the future kept evolving. She began studying marketing in college and set her sights on a career within the industry. But the universe was not quite done helping her determine her journey just yet.
My biggest goal this year is to work with organizations that do sustainable and regenerative work within their communities and to encourage others to do the same. Nicole Rowe
Those lessons ended up shaping the social impact initiative of Rowe’s current title as the inaugural Miss Anthem. Previously referred to as platforms, social impact initiatives have in recent years become a much
more prominent part of the Miss America competition and its “Socialpreliminaries.impact initiatives are kind of what we advocate for during the year and what we basically put our primary focus on,” Rowe explains. “We still do other types of service work but it kind of keeps us on a path.”
The Miss Valley of the Sun Scholarship Organization is an official local preliminary to the Miss Arizona and Miss Arizona's Outstanding Teen competition. The organization crowns title-holders for Phoenix, North Phoenix, Scottsdale, Glendale and — beginning this year — Anthem and Cave Creek.
“The addition of the Miss Anthem and Miss Cave Creek titles was to spread more awareness about our program across the Valley and to provide more opportunities for our titleholders to serve the great communities of Anthem and Cave Creek,” she explains. “We are so thrilled to have these titles and look forward to building
Since its inception in 1921, the historical and social significance of Miss America has evolved from a boardwalk beauty pageant to the world's largest provider of scholarship assistance for young women, awarding more than $45 million each year. Before one can compete to become Miss America, one must first win a title at the state level.
Cait Dempsey, executive director of the Miss Valley of the Sun Scholarship Organization, says that it is her mission to educate the future women leaders of Arizona about the Miss America program.
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Miss Anthem Nicole Rowe (on far left), who currently volunteers in the coffee shop and as a high school ministry coach for Christ's Church of the Valley’s Anthem campus, plans to assist as many different grassroots nonprofit organizations throughout the Anthem community as possible. Photo by Nicole Walker
Nicole Rowe (on far right) would, of course, love to win the title of Miss Arizona this summer and advance to the national Miss America competition. However, she is determined to make the most out of her Miss Anthem title. Photo by Nicole Walker
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Instagram:Facebook:missvalleyofthesun.comcharitytheresponsibleway.com@missanthemaz@missanthemaz
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The sky really is the limit for Rowe, who has discovered increased confidence and developed a strong self-awareness through her titles of Miss Phoenix, Miss Chandler, Miss Gilbert and now the inaugural Miss Anthem.
“Back then, I was still trying to learn the balance of having my own life outside of high school and having responsibilities like a job and internships,” she explains. “So it is really cool that I get to come back as a new person with everything that I have experienced and, just being more mature and responsible in general, seeing where this takes me.”
“I really trust their processes compared to some of the bigger organizations out there,” she says. “I know the people who are running them and I know that they are doing so in a way that is both sustainable and regenerative.”
And Rowe is extremely eager to do so with her social impact initiative — Charity the Responsible Way.
SISTERHOOD AND COMMUNITY
“I can read myself and other people very well just by looking at the way that we react to things or the way that we decide to handle different situations,” she says. “The Miss Arizona and Miss America organizations taught me that I am more capable of doing things that I never thought I would be able to do.
“All young women have had different confidence and self-esteem issues while growing up. The Miss Arizona and Miss America organizations have shown me that I am valuable and capable of anything that I set my mind to. They have also taught me the importance of sisterhood and community. You can really rely on the people around you.”
“When I was on [my 11-month mission trip], I did not believe that the organization was making a good change,” Rowe says. “In fact, I believe that it was actually doing more damage. So my biggest goal this year is to work with organizations that do sustainable and regenerative work within their communities and to encourage others to do the same.”
Acknowledging that she could have worked a bit harder with her first three titles, Rowe is grateful to have another opportunity to make a difference further into adulthood.
Rowe would, of course, love to win the title of Miss Arizona this summer and advance to the national Miss America competition. However, the 24-year-old North Phoenix resident — who currently works at Scottsdale’s internet marketing service Envida Social, recently received her MBA and plans to pursue a master of science in digital audience strategy — is determined to make the most out of her Miss Anthem title.
Rowe, who currently volunteers in the coffee shop and as a high school ministry coach for Christ's Church of the Valley’s Anthem campus, plans to assist as many different grassroots nonprofit organizations throughout the Anthem community as possible.
relationships with local businesses and community members.”
The Phoenix Theatre Company will present its production of “Something Rotten,” a musical extravaganza about conniving-but-clueless brothers who hatch a plan to cook up the next big stage hit. See website for price and times. The Phoenix Theatre Company, 1825 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. 602-254-2151; phoenixtheatre.com
SEUSSICAL
Through May 7
Photo by Michele Celentano
Orpheus Male Chorus of Phoenix will perform a concert of water-themed choral music — including sea shanties, rivers, weeping and baptism. See website for prices. 3 p.m. Camelback Bible Church, 3900 E. Stanford Drive, Paradise Valley. orpheus.org
SPEM: SONGS OF HOPE AND LOVE
May 4–June 19
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COMMUNITY May 2022
May 1
Starlight Community Theater presents its production of “Done to Death.” See website for price and times. Starlight Community Theater, 1611 W. Whispering Wind Dr., Suite 9, Phoenix. starlightcommunitytheater.com
Writer Joseph J. Airdo
Phoenix Chorale will perform Thomas Tallis’ 40-part Renaissance masterpiece “Spem in Alium.” Through bespoke staging concepts in each venue, the audience will experience total immersion in the sound of 40 solo voices, each singing a different line of music and all joining together to create a phenomenal sound. $42+; discounts available for students, seniors and active military. 3 p.m. Pinnacle Presbyterian Church, 25150 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. phoenixchorale.org
Through May 7
JUAN GABRIEL
SOMETHING ROTTEN
May 5–8
Ballet Arizona will pay homage to the legendary performer and music of Mexican singer and songwriter Juan Gabriel, who captured the hearts of millions worldwide and whose works have transcended generations. See website for price
Musical Theatre of Anthem presents its production of “Seussical,” a fantastical, magical, musical extravaganza. $25. See website for times. Musical Theatre of Anthem, 42201 N. 41st Drive, Anthem. 623336-6001; musicaltheatreofanthem.org
YOU COME, TOO
May 1
DONE TO DEATH
May 1
Sonoran Desert Chorale will perform a concert of music that celebrates coming home, coming together, making a spiritual journey and spending time with loved ones. $18+; student and senior discounts available. 3 p.m. La Casa De Cristo Lutheran Church, 6300 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale. 480-3054538; sonorandesertchorale.org
WATER IN THE DESERT
Arizona Broadway Theatre will present its production of “Ghost: The Musical,” adapted from the hit film. See website for price and times. Arizona Broadway Theatre, 7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria. 623-776-8400; azbroadway.org
JURASSIC PARK IN CONCERT
BUILDING A BRIGHT FUTURE
The Phoenix Symphony orchestra will perform John Williams’ iconic score live to picture during a special screening of “Jurassic Park.” See website for price. Friday and Saturday 7:30 p.m.; Sunday 2 p.m. Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second St., Phoenix. phoenixsymphony.org
May 13–15
CELEBRATE MUSIC FROM HAWAII
Musical Instrument Museum will celebrate the music of Hawaii with live performances and educational workshops. See website for schedule of events. $20; youth discounts available. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org
Ballet Arizona will perform a work with choreography that embraces and showcases the vast natural backdrop of the desert. See website for price. Tuesdays–Saturdays 8 p.m. Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. balletaz.org
Arizona Masterworks Chorale will perform a concert of music by today’s most thrilling composers. $15+. Saturday 7:30 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church, 801 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix. Sunday 3 p.m. at Ascension Lutheran Church, 7100 N. Mockingbird Lane, Paradise Valley. arizonamasterworks.com
Turf Paradise will host a Kentucky Derby Party with live thoroughbred horse racing and on-site betting. $35+. 10:45 a.m. Turf Paradise, 1501 W. Bell Road, Phoenix. thepoloparty.com/derby.480-423-1414;
May 6–29
and times. Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second St., Phoenix. balletaz.org
May 7
May 7
KENTUCKY DERBY PARTY
May 14 and 15
In anticipation of its summer tour to the East Coast, Phoenix Boys Choir will perform a concert exploring the rich heritage and music of the American Southwest alongside several guest artists — including the Yellow Bird Apache Dancers and youth from the Tradiciones Dance Company. $20+. Saturday 7 p.m. at Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St., Mesa; Sunday 3 p.m. at Willow Canyon High School, 17901 W. Lundberg St., Surprise. boyschoir.org
May 17–June 2
GHOST: THE MUSICAL
NEW MADEWORKS:INAMERICA
ON THE ROAD: ARIZONA TO WEST VIRGINIA
May 7 and 8
Rosie’s House will host its annual ovation gala, featuring entertainment, a silent auction, dinner and a hosted bar. Rosie's House students will take center stage with impressive performances and stories of the lifechanging impact of music. See website for price and time. The Camby, Autograph Collection, 2401 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix. 602-2528475; rosieshouse.org
May 14 and 15
AN EVENING AT DESERT BOTANICAL GARDEN
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ALWAYS... PATSY CLINE
The Phoenix Theatre Company will present its production of “Always... Patsy Cline,” in which tales of musician Patsy Cline’s life on the road are told with down-home country humor and brought to vibrant life through her music. See website for price and times. The Phoenix Theatre Company, 1825 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. 602-254-2151; phoenixtheatre.com
locations.
BALLET THEATRE OF PHOENIX SPRING RECITAL
Ballet Theatre of Phoenix will perform three short ballets to celebrate the season — including “Etudes,” “Enchanted Garden” and Paquita.” $30. 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Herberger Theatre Center, 222 E. Monroe Street, Phoenix. 602-9573364; ballettheatreofphx.org
DESERT FOOTHILLS BOOK FESTIVAL
COMMUNITY May
SHREK, JR. AUDITIONS
Photo from Match Market + Bar by Timothy Fox Photography
Writer Joseph J. Airdo2022
Desiring to connect personally with book lovers and to promote an appreciation of reading and the literary arts, a group of local authors will host an event during which attendees may meet and greet the community’s countless talented writers. The event will also feature a free raffle as well as an opportunity to purchase additional raffle tickets for gift baskets and other prizes while net proceeds from the festival will benefit local literacy programs. Free. 9 a.m.–2 p.m. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale. desertfoothillsbookfestival.com
June 4
June 8–Aug. 7
May 29
May 21
June 6
North Valley Symphony Orchestra will perform a concert of music inspired by America. The concert will also include the world premiere of a commissioned work by Arizona State University’s professor emeritus of composition James DeMars to celebrate the nonprofit performing arts organization’s tenth anniversary season. $5; youth discounts available. 7 p.m. North Canyon High School Auditorium, 1700 E. Union Hills Drive, Phoenix. 623-980-4628; northvalleysymphony.org
The See website for arizonarestaurantweek.com
Arizona Restaurant Association will host its annual event during which participating dining establishments will offer special three-course menus that showcase their culinary breadth and talent. $33+.
ACROSS AMERICA
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Musical Theatre of Anthem will audition potential cast members for its upcoming production of “Shrek, Jr.,” based on the Oscar-winning animated motion picture and Broadway musical. Auditionees aged 8–18 should prepare a musical theater song. Audition preparation workshops are available for an extra charge. $325; sibling discounts available. 2:30 p.m. RSVP. Musical Theatre of Anthem, 42201 N. 41st Drive, Anthem. 623-336-6001; musicaltheatreofanthem.org
May 20–29
SPRING RESTAURANTARIZONAWEEK
Musical Theatre of Anthem will audition potential cast members for
Starlight Community Theater will offer three separate summer camp experiences — Acting Intensive for Youth, Teen Tech Intensive and “Beauty and the Beast, Jr.” $99.99+. See website for hours. Starlight Community Theater, 1611 W. Whispering Wind Dr., Suite 9, starlightcommunitytheater.comPhoenix.
June 13–19
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July 28–30
June 16–18
Musical Theatre of Anthem will present its production of “A Chorus Line Teen Edition.” $25. See website for times. Musical Theatre of Anthem, 42201 N. 41st Drive, Anthem. 623336-6001; musicaltheatreofanthem.org
Arizona Broadway Theatre will present its production of “The SpongeBob Musical,” based on the beloved animated series. See website for price and times. Arizona Broadway Theatre, 7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria. 623776-8400; azbroadway.org
THE MUSICALSPONGEBOB
DISNEY’S THE LITTLE MERMAID
SHREK, JR.
June 13–July 23
CAMP RISING STAR
June 10–July 17
Starlight Community Theater will present its production of “Disney’s The Little Mermaid,” based on the classic animated motion picture. See website for price and times. Starlight Community Theater, 1611 W. Whispering Wind Dr., Suite 9, starlightcommunitytheater.comPhoenix.
DISNEY’S WINNIE THE POOH KIDS AUDITIONS
July 15 and 16
Musical Theatre of Anthem will present its production of “Disney’s Winnie the Pooh Kids.” $25. See website for times. Musical Theatre of Anthem, 42201 N. 41st Drive, Anthem. musicaltheatreofanthem.org623-336-6001;
July 17
A CHORUS LINE TEEN EDITION AUDITIONS
Musical Theatre of Anthem will present its production of “Shrek, Jr.,” based on the Oscar-winning animated motion picture and Broadway musical. $25. See website for times.
Musical Theatre of Anthem will audition potential cast members for its upcoming production of “A Chorus Line Teen Edition.” Auditionees aged 13–18 should prepare a musical theater song. Audition preparation workshops are available for an extra charge. $325; sibling discounts available. 2:30 p.m. RSVP. Musical Theatre of Anthem, 42201 N. 41st Drive, Anthem. musicaltheatreofanthem.org623-336-6001;
DISNEY’S WINNIE THE POOH KIDS
its upcoming production of “Disney’s Winnie the Pooh Kids.” Auditionees aged 6–12 should prepare a musical theater song. Audition preparation workshops are available for an extra charge. $325; sibling discounts available. 2:30 p.m. RSVP. Musical Theatre of Anthem, 42201 N. 41st Drive, Anthem. musicaltheatreofanthem.org623-336-6001;
July 6
Musical Theatre of Anthem, 42201 N. 41st Drive, Anthem. musicaltheatreofanthem.org623-336-6001;
A CHORUS LINE TEEN EDITION
June 20–24
SUMMERARTSPERFORMINGINSTITUTE
Aug. 6 and 7
Musical Theatre of Anthem will host a summer performing arts institute during which participants will rotate between various classes and instructors in their specialties. The material will include selections from the theater’s forthcoming 15th season. Participants will also choose electives from more than 20 different options — including creating a character, ballet, improv, tap, theater history, voice and diction and mastering the dance call — and get to show off some of the skills they have learned during a series of live evening performances. See website for prices. Musical Theatre of Anthem, 42201 N. 41st Drive, Anthem. 623-336-6001; musicaltheatreofanthem.org
Photo by Michele Celentano
COMMUNITY May 2022
IMMERSIVE KLIMT ARRIVES
Aug. 27 and 28
THEATER ADVANCES TOWARD IMPROVEMENTS
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The Phoenix Theatre Company recently launched the final phase of its Centennial Capital Campaign in support of construction of a state-of-the-art, 500-seat theater along with the creation of an arts innovation and training wing to support its community service programs. Technical improvements will include a full fly loft, below-stage traps and a stage large enough to accommodate pre-Broadway show development. phoenixtheatre.com
Musical Theatre of Anthem will audition potential cast members for its upcoming production of “A Year with Frog and Toad Kids.” Auditionees aged 6–13 should prepare a musical theater song. Audition preparation workshops are available for an extra charge. $325; sibling discounts available. 2:30 p.m. RSVP. Musical Theatre of Anthem, 42201 N. 41st Drive, Anthem. 623-336-6001; musicaltheatreofanthem.org
A YEAR WITH FROG AND TOAD KIDS
Writer Joseph J. Airdo
LITTLE WOMEN AUDITIONS
Musical Theatre of Anthem will audition potential cast members for its upcoming production of “Little Women.” Auditionees aged 13–18 should prepare a musical theater song. Audition preparation workshops are available for an extra charge. $325; sibling discounts available. 2:30 p.m. RSVP. Musical Theatre of Anthem, 42201 N. 41st Drive, Anthem. 623-336-6001; musicaltheatreofanthem.org
IN SCOTTSDALE
Impact Museums and Lighthouse Immersive this spring debuted an immersive art installation featuring the works of Gustav Klimt. World-renowned master of digital art Massimiliano Siccardi brings patrons through Klimt’s evolution from thousands of hand-drawn sketches to works from the pinnacle of his golden phase — such as the “The Woman in Gold,” “Tree of Life” and “The Kiss.” $39.99. Lighthouse ArtSpace Phoenix, 4301 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. immersiveklimt.com.
21imagesarizona.com May 2022 ••• • MIKE HIGGIN S 6 2 3 . 6 40.7 5 0 2 | Mi k eS e l l s A nth e m .c o mPROFES SION A L S Each office independently owned and operated
Photography Courtesy of the Desert Foothills Book Festival
Writer Joseph J. Airdo
authors are a vibrant, varied and caring bunch, eager to share their craft and enrich the lives of those in our community and beyond,” says Caren Cantrell, a children’s book author and Cave Creek resident. “Whether you are looking to escape into a world of fantasy and fiction or you want to know you are not alone in the problems you face, an Arizona author has what you need.”
That is especially true of books written by Arizona “Arizonaauthors.
“With the Tucson Book Festival to the south and the Payson and Prescott book festivals to the north, [we] felt the greater Phoenix, Scottsdale, Cave Creek and Carefree areas were missing a valuable opportunity to meet and engage with local authors from all genres,” Cantrell says.
Among the many local authors who will be in attendance at the festival are Victorian historical mysteries writer Karen Odden and western, thriller and paranormal writer Dan Baldwin. The event will also feature a free raffle as well as an opportunity to purchase additional raffle tickets for gift baskets and other prizes while net proceeds from the festival will benefit local literacy programs.
Set for Saturday, June 4 at the Holland Center, the Desert Foothills Book Festival will begin with a storytime during which a local actress will read passages from children’s books written by some of the festival’s authors. The actress will return later during the event to read passages from adult fiction and nonfiction books.
If I can write something that inspires a child to keep reading, that is a good thing. Kids who read grow up to be adults who think. Caren Cantrell
T“
Cantrell is the committee chairperson for the Desert Foothills Book Festival, a new free event conceived by a small group of local authors who desired to connect personally with book lovers and to promote an appreciation of reading and the literary arts.
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There are few things on this planet that a good book cannot solve. From providing you with a source of entertainment or mental stimulation to widening your cultural perspective or palate, books possess just about everything you can possibly desire to know or experience.
24 imagesarizona.com May 2022
It was that role — and the role of grandmother — that convinced her to finally realize her earlier aspirations of authoring children’s books.
Cantrell recalls being very shy as a child.
Cantrell spent 30 years as a banker, ending her career as an executive vice president in charge of operations with 600 employees in five states. Having never lost her love for books, she then founded 102nd Place — a publishing services company with which she helps other authors self-publish their books.
CAREN CANTRELL
Children’s book author and Cave Creek resident Caren Cantrell is also the committee chairperson for the Desert Foothills Book Festival, a new free event conceived by a small group of local authors who desired to connect personally with book lovers and to promote an appreciation of reading and the literary arts.
“Books became my friends — a world I could immerse myself in with no judgments or criticisms and no fear of failure,” she says. “They taught me compassion, empathy and different ways to interact with the world around me. I knew I wanted to be able to do that for other children.”
CAREN CANTRELL
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“A picture book has to have all of the same elements as any other story or novel and you have to do it in 500 words or less,” she explains. “You have to be concise and use a single descriptive word rather than a string of Cantrelladjectives.”believes
that the effort is well worth it, though, especially if it ends up providing children with friends in her books — just as she had when she was a child — and the encouragement to keep reading.
expanded her repertoire to include a middle-grade science-fantasy novel, “The Sun Thief,” but most of her works are picture books for children such as “The Fastest Dinosaur” — which, the author says, are more challenging to write than you might think.
“I am very concerned with the low literacy rate among kids, particularly here in Arizona,” Cantrell says. “If I can write something that inspires a child to keep reading, that is a good thing. Kids who read grow up to be adults who think.”
“Aside from the challenges I faced as a child, I feel the best teacher for me has been becoming a grandmother,” Cantrell says. “I have ten grandchildren and each one of them is unique and interesting. Watching them grow, listening to what they say and seeing them interacting with the world has given me so much more insight than any writing class ever Cantrellcould.”recently
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KAREN ODDEN
Some kids who read also grow up to be adults to write — as is the case with Odden who, having previously worked in publishing, marketing and sales, made the leap to author in 2006.
Victorian historical mysteries writer and Scottsdale resident Karen Odden says that stories often drop into her lap as demanding attention “in the manner of an exuberant puppy or a ticking bomb.”
Since the Scottsdale resident’s first novel “A Lady in the Smoke” became a bestseller, she has written three more novels — “A Dangerous Duet,” “A Trace of Deceit” and “Down a Dark River.”
KAREN ODDEN
“I write historical mysteries and historical fiction,” Odden says. “Mysteries have life and death stakes and provide ample opportunity to explore themes of injustice, dysfunctional families, socioeconomic inequality, political upheaval and so on. Crimes and murders, in particular, are often driven by some combination of love, revenge, greed and fear, which occupy some of the darkest corners in the human heart.”
While the time and place of Odden’s novels are inspired by her experiences writing a college dissertation about Victorian literature and history and working at Christie’s auction house in New York, she says that the specific stories themselves often drop into her lap as demanding attention “in the manner of an exuberant puppy or a ticking bomb.”
WhenNovember.Oddenis
Its sequel — “Under a Veiled Moon” — is scheduled for release this
“That is, I can explore contemporary racism by displacing it to 1870s London, where there was vicious anti-Irish sentiment in certain parts of England,” Odden explains.
Odden adds that setting her stories in 1870s London enables her to address contemporary issues at one remove.
For example, “Down a Dark River” was inspired by a nonfiction article Odden had read that got her thinking about how revenge is more complicated than the rather glib phrase “an eye for an eye” suggests.
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“Revenge can be a form of communication, a last-ditch entreaty for empathy, a demand for understanding,” she explains. “So I wanted to write a book about revenge and the role empathy plays in bringing justice and mercy to our world. That book became ‘Down a Dark River.’”
not writing, she is hiking Arizona’s trails with friends — both the real ones and the characters she makes up in her mind.
“I am always surprised and sometimes startled to learn what my characters tell me,” Baldwin explains. “In a sense, I do not write; I transcribe.”
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Having spent much of his life working in advertising, Baldwin’s foray into writing books began when he was offered the opportunity to ghostwrite a sales book for Tom Hopkins Institute in Scottsdale. He was inspired to venture into writing novels while hiking at the foot of Weaver’s Needle and thinking that it would make for a great setting in a story.
Western, thriller and paranormal writer Dan Baldwin, a Mesa resident, was inspired to venture into writing novels while hiking at the foot of Weaver’s Needle and thinking that it would make for a great setting in a story.
DAN BALDWIN
Baldwin says that he also enjoys playing with his “imaginary friends,” noting that, as a writer, he trusts completely in his own subconscious and the characters it creates.
“I am an avid hiker and camper with a love of nature and landscape photography,” says Baldwin, who is a
Experience Desert Foothills Book Festival Saturday, June 4 | 9 a.m.–2 p.m. | The Holland Center | 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale | Free desertfoothillsbookfestival.com
DAN BALDWIN
desertfoothillsbookfestival.com
Mesa resident. “I call the Superstition Mountains ‘Lil’ Danny’s Big Ol’ Sandbox’ because it is such a joy to explore. Several of my western novels employ specific places in the Superstitions and other Arizona locations.”
“I am committed to writing my books my way and therefore write whatever genre I want to write,” Baldwin says. “For example, I began my current novel-in-progress, ‘Gabby Durango and His Rangy Texans,’ as something I thought would be a western. After writing the obligatory, ‘It was a dark and stormy night,’ I found Gabby and friends in 1919 Arizona making a stag film. Where this thing will end, I do not know, but it will be one hell of a fun ride.”
“Truthfully, there is an ‘out there’ out there,” Baldwin says. “And I want to explore as much of it as the human mind can handle.”
29imagesarizona.com May 2022 VISIT IMAGESARIZONA.COM TO READ AN EXTENDED VERSION OF THIS STORY, FEATURING MORE INSIGHT INTO THE WORKS OF THESE THREE AUTHORS. VERSIONEXTENDED OPEN TO THE PUBLIC; FREE ADMISSION AND PARKING. FREEEVERYFRIDAY7-9P.M. OnlineAt Anthem.com/Events Sponsored by: 6 The very secret service CITY NIGHTS BAND13 Young SUPERHEROcountry20 27 FOOD TRUCKS EVERY FRIDAY Food trucks will be on site beginning at 6 p.m. Amphitheater • 41703 N. Gavilan Peak PKWY
That is perhaps why Baldwin’s books — which include “The Ad Club: Quest for the Phoenix Award,” “Sparky and the Twins,” “A Stalking Death” and “The Paranormal Pendulum: Dowsing the Departed” — often transcend the very concept of genre.
However, western novels are just the tip of the iceberg for Baldwin, who also writes thrillers, short story collections and paranormal nonfiction — the last of which has provided him an opportunity to “explore the furthest reaches of the human experience with other souls unafraid to break out of the box of conventional thinking.”
“I truly feel that Musical Theatre of Anthem offers something for everyone,” Hammond says. “Whether you want to try out something new or are a seasoned performer, we welcome you and cannot wait to watch you grow and build your confidence. Many first-time Musical Theatre of Anthem participants come to watch a show and then get excited to be a part of the magical experience.”
“That is a lot of extra work but it also provides a lot of extra opportunities for the kids,” says Hammond, noting that each set of cast members performs a certain number of shows.
Musical Theatre of Anthem kicked off its 14th season last July with two productions — “101 Dalmatians Kids” and “Singin’ in the Rain, Jr.” For the latter production, the theater utilized a new rain system that two fathers designed and volunteered to implement.
Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography by Michele Celentano
D
Despite the obstacles of masks and COVID-19 testing, Musical Theatre of Anthem’s producing artistic director Jackie Hammond wholeheartedly believes that the nonprofit performing arts organization’s 2021–2022 season was by far the best in its 14 years of educating and entertaining the community.
“That was really exciting to have the rain actually on the stage and the actors tap dancing in the rain just like in the movie,” Hammond says. “That was something that we had never done before. It was a neat element to add to our production value.”
In September, Musical Theatre of Anthem presented “Matilda, Jr.,” the first production for which it began double-casting.
FROM DALMATIANS TO OGRES
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Comprised of seven stellar productions, an expanded offering of classes and even a haunted house, the theater’s staff, performers, families and supporters proved that the arts are not only possible but essential during challenging times like those we have faced over the past couple of years. Moreover, the theater certainly has no intention of slowing down anytime soon as it gears up for a summer filled with learning and performance opportunities and a 15th season that will take it to exciting new heights.
Musical Theatre of Anthem’s new rain system was utilized again in December for its production of “Once on This Island, Jr.,” a theatrical adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale “The Little Mermaid.” However, this time, it was joined by the additional elements of sand on the stage and flash cotton to create a fire effect.
Season 12 Wizard of Oz
Season 11 The Addams Family Young
After its holiday concert, an annual community outreach effort, Musical Theatre of Anthem in February brought “Disney’s Cinderella Kids” to its stage, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the classic animated feature film.
Musical Theatre of Anthem will close its 14th season June 16–18 with “Shrek, Jr.” — a full-scale production that, because it takes place during the summer, will provide those hard-working kids an opportunity to be fully immersed in the theatrical experience of singing, dancing, acting and bonding as a cast all day long during rehearsals.
It is now in the midst of several performances of “Seussical” through May 7.
Season 10 Annie Jr
“It has been really exciting to bring all of the Dr. Seuss classics to life,” says Hammond, noting that the theater previously presented the “Jr.” version of the show. “This is the full version of ‘Seussical,’ which allows us to showcase adults as well as kids.”
“The kids learn from the adults but the adults also learn from the kids,” Hammond explains. “We have got some really hard-working kids in these productions.”
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produces one show each season in which adults are also cast as it provides a learning opportunity for those on both ends of the age spectrum.
Season 8 My Son Pinocchio Jr
Hammond adds that Musical Theatre of Anthem
Season Once on this Island Jr
The producing artistic director adds that kids may attend an entire session or just drop in on individual classes. That way, they can explore a variety of classes and see where their interests and skills align best.
Stage productions were only the tip of the iceberg for Musical Theatre of Anthem’s 14th season, though. In October, the theater hosted its first haunted house, which was preceded by a workshop during which youth aged 14–18 collaborated to create creepy characters, design macabre makeup and costumes and decorate a hair-raising haunt.
“We had at least 500 people come through our haunted house which, previously, was something that was never really offered anywhere in the vicinity,” says Hammond, noting that the nonprofit performing arts organization received a generous donation of items from an Anthem resident who has done haunted houses for years. “That was a really fun night for the kids so we will definitely be doing that again this year.”
Musical Theatre of Anthem last fall also expanded upon its class offerings. In addition to the return of its weekly acting classes, the theater introduced improv games and improv troupe; vocal technique and audition prep; monologue prep; fairytale theater; puppetry; and homeschool theater.
BEYOND THE STAGE
“There are a lot of kids who maybe do not feel comfortable singing or dancing but still want to hone in on their acting skills,” Hammond says. “So it has been great for them to have the opportunity to explore those parts of acting without having to get up and sing and dance.”
14
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“ KidsCinderella14Season
It really does take a village to put on these productions — especially during this challenging time. The support of our families has been the No. 1 reason that we have been able to keep going. Jackie Hammond
“Once they get some more confidence, they usually want to jump right into a production as well,” Hammond says. “So [the classes] can be used as a stepping stone to gain more confidence and skills before auditioning for a production. But they are also good for kids who are very experienced and want to improve their craft in a specific skill or try something new.”
Musical Theatre of Anthem will keep the learning and performance opportunities flowing this summer with the return of its popular performing arts institute June 20–24, during which participants will rotate between various classes
Participants will also choose electives from more than 20 different options — including creating a character, ballet, improv, tap, theater history, voice and diction and mastering the dance call — and get to show off some of the skills they have learned during a series of live evening performances.
Similar to its class offerings, Musical Theatre of Anthem will also allow participants to opt out of the
and instructors in their specialties. The material will include selections from the theater’s forthcoming 15th season.
Season 12 Frozen Jr
performance portion if they wish to do so, ensuring a welcoming and flexible environment for all.
Season 8 101 Dalmatians Kids Aladdin
a new program in which businesses can sponsor productions and we have had a lot of community support with that, which has helped to subsidize the cost of our productions,” she explains.
Season 13
Performing
“For ‘A Chorus Line,’ we are bringing in Sherry Henderson — who has been on Broadway and toured with Liza Minelli — to direct and choreograph the show,” Hammond says.
Through May 7 | $25
Kids
June 16–18 | $25
Experience
Summer Arts Institute
“We have never turned away a performer because they could not afford to participate in a production,”
June 20–24 | See website for prices
Hammond credits much of Musical Theatre of Anthem’s continued success to the local business
“Shrek, Jr.”
“Wecommunity.started
“Seussical”
Twitter:Instagram:Facebook:musicaltheatreofanthem.org@musicaltheatreofanthem@mta_az@mta_az
This summer will also see the first two productions of Musical Theatre of Anthem’s highly anticipated 15th season — “Disney’s Winnie the Pooh Kids” and “A Chorus Line: Teen Edition.”
Musical Theatre of Anthem | 42201 N. 41st Drive, Anthem 623-336-6001 | musicaltheatreofanthem.org
The theater’s 15th season will continue with “Little Women” and “A Year with Frog and Toad Kids” in the fall, “Be More Chill” in the winter, a special yet-to-be-announced production in the spring and “My Son Pinocchio, Jr.” next summer. In other words, the season will be jampacked with singing, dancing and more to delight, excite, surprise and challenge the community’s many exceptionally talented performers.
FROM A STUFFED BEAR TO A WOODEN BOY
Hammond adds. “The Lyle Kishbaugh Scholarship Fund offers full tuition coverage for youth to participate in our productions at no cost.”
“I am also grateful for our families and our performers who are such a loyal, supportive and consistent part of the Musical Theatre of Anthem community. It really does take a village to put on these productions — especially during this challenging time. The support of our families has been the No. 1 reason that we have been able to keep going.”
Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography by Veronika Countryman
That contrast between danger and beauty encourages us to view the world around us — including people — with greater empathy and to understand that everything and everyone possesses qualities that exist on both ends of the spectrum. After all, as singer-songwriter Bret Michaels would tell you, every rose has its thorn.
But the complete opposite is also true. And therein often lies the greatest treasures — and an even more important life lesson that lies adjacent to the one about never judging a book by its cover: It is when you learn to look for beauty between the spines that you are most richly rewarded.
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One of our earliest lessons in life is that we should never judge a book by its cover. That idiom is especially true here in Arizona when it comes to our state’s natural environment and all of the incredibly fascinating things of which it is comprised. At first glance, something may appear to be quite intimidating. But with the right perspective, these foreboding things are often responsible for the most beauty.
May offers prime time viewing of these remarkable miracles of our natural world, with saguaros, cholla, barrel cactuses and more suddenly showcasing some of the most colorful and dynamic flowers that you have ever seen. The prickly needles that surround them provide the perfect protection as well as a fair warning to the beholder: You may look but do not dare touch.
Photographer Veronika Countryman is well aware of this, expertly capturing on camera one of the best possible examples of this phenomenon — cactus blossoms.
O
“Cactuses have a reputation of being inhospitable and painful,” Countryman says. “But the beauty that they put out in these blossoms is such a contrast to that. There are other flowers out there too. And I like them all. But there is just something about cactus flowers that is unique in that way.”
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Cactuses have a reputation of being inhospitable and painful. But the beauty that they put out in these blossoms is such a contrast to that. There are other flowers out there too. And I like them all. But there is just something about cactus flowers that is unique in that way.
Veronika Countryman “
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“
40 May
A lot of people do not see the [cactus flowers] that bloom at night. If you are out in the desert around Midnight, it is really cool. By the time the morning heat comes, which can be pretty substantial pretty early, they are already wilted. Veronika Countryman
Dear Future Kindergartner...(andparent!)
“My twins have grown so much socially, emotionally, and academically this year. They love going to school! They are excited to tell me about their day. The teachers get to know the students and engage them individually. I am so glad we have them in this Kindergarten program!
It’s effective, safe, and provides a solid foundation for future learning.
”
- Susan, DVUSD Parent
REGISTER TODAY for 2022-23 School Year! Scan the QR Code or visit www.dvusd.org/register to save your child’s seat for next year For more information: www.dvusd.org/kindergarten
Instagram:veronika-countryman.pixels.com@azveronika
Veronika
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“I consider it a privilege to share my captures and interpretations, to inspire you to enhance your world with the rich splendor of creation,” Countryman says. “I confess that on a rare occasion I have thought this passion might wane, but I am regularly reignited by the ravishing beauty here in Arizona where there is always a new treat for the eyes and the soul.”
Countryman moved to Arizona with her husband in 1978. The Mesa resident puts her college education in clinical laboratory technology to good use with a part-time job in a laboratory at a hospital but continues to enjoy photography as a hobby as often as possible.
Countryman recalls the excitement that she had when, at six years old, her father let her hold his Agfa camera to take his picture on the front step of their house. In her early teens, she acquired her own Kodak Brownie camera, which she took out on rolling country bicycle rides to snap photos of wildflowers against old barns and gravestones.
Many cactus flowers bloom in April and May. You can see cholla, barrel cactus and prickly pears bloom into the summer, as well. Countryman
Veronika Countryman’s Hungarian refugee parents brought with them to the United States only a few treasures — one of them being a Borncamera.inNew
“
York, one of Countryman’s most vivid memories from youth is of her father taking photos and putting together albums.
About the Photographer
“He was a very visual person,” Countryman says. “I have always considered myself to be a visual person, as well, so I think that I inherited that trait from him.”
“I lived in a somewhat rural area and, as I would be out just riding around through neighborhoods or country roads, those were the kinds of things that caught my eye,” explains Countryman, noting that she saw the contrast of something so bright and colorful against something old and drab as being beautiful, organic and rustic. “To this day, I can still see those images in my mind, even though the pictures are long gone.”
“
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The cholla cactus has a really bad reputation. I often see people buy a plot of land to build a house on and one of the very first things that they do is clear out all of the cholla. But cholla put out a lot of beauty. During the summer, they bloom in the evening around dinnertime and into the night..
Veronika Countryman
At Immersive Klimt: Revolution, the iconic artist’s work is put into historical perspective as you are surrounded by projected images and accompanying music from both Klimt’s era and more recent years, that is a completely enveloping — and even meditative — experience.
Beat the Heat
Klimt was a leader of the Viennese secession that transformed European arts culture in the late 19th century. Despite the traumatic loss of his father and brother and the raging of the first world war, the artist continued to produce and evolve in his subject matter and use of color.
Writer Shannon Severson
There’s no doubt that Phoenix has a reputation for fantastic outdoor experiences... for most of the year. However, when our temperatures grow infernal, we tend to hunker down indoors or get out of town entirely.
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IMMERSIVE ART
Descend from the street level in the heart of Scottsdale and enter the world of Viennese modernist painter Gustav
Klimt, who is probably most well-known for his “Golden Phase” in which he used gold leaf in “The Kiss.”
FeverofCourtesyPhoto//ConcertsCandlelight
But there’s no need for seasonal hibernation or an allout escape if you’re looking for some one-of-a-kind entertainment this summer. The buzz word of the moment is “immersion,” with indoor experiences that offer a feast for the eyes, ears and mind — while simultaneously providing a super simple way to beat the heat.
XSuperflybyPhoto//Experience“Friends”The
If you close your eyes, music can transport you to another time and place, stirring emotions and memories as the
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melody ebbs and flows. When you open your eyes at a Candlelight Concert, you’re also in a beautiful space.
The “Friends” Experience // Photo by Superfly X
This May, The Children’s Museum of Phoenix will be the site of tributes to contemporary artists Taylor Swift and Queen by the Listeso String Quartet, as well as the music of pop sensation Ed Sheerhan. At The Phoenix Art Museum, patrons have their choice of Vivaldi’s
MOOD-LIT MUSIC
Richard Ouzounian, creative consultant for Lighthouse Immersive — which produces immersive experiences with Impact Museums for Klimt and Vincent Van Gogh in the same Lighthouse Artspace — says the motto for the show is, “Surreal. Seductive. Sublime.”
“Klimt’s often surreal work kept bending the boundaries of reality in a manner made for this kind of all-encompassing show,” Ouzounian says. “His seductive works like ‘The Kiss’ acquire even more power when blown up to 50 times their original size. And the way that images, sound and color all unite wind up giving the viewer a truly sublime experience.”
More than 31,000 people have attended the experience in venues all over the Valley.
The “Friends” Experience // Photo by Superfly X
Phoenix is one of 80 worldwide cities to host performances of this type in churches, libraries, mansions and museums. Classical music lovers, jazz fans and pop aficionados alike will probably find a performance that suits their taste.
“Watching a crowd wave a candle in the air as they sing along to ‘We are the Champions’ or seeing a little girl dance with her mom to ‘Under the Sea’ with background animal noises at the Phoenix Zoo are things you’ll only catch at a Candlelight Concert,” Jad adds.
Immersive Klimt: Revolution Photo Courtesy of Immersive Klimt: Revolution
Merging art and technology, visitors take a self-guided tour through a brightly-colored, creative world filled with large-scale light installations, massive sculptures and murals by street artists from Arizona and across the country. Projection mapping and sound reactive LEDs, including a healing Solfeggio frequency dome, draw visitors to participate in the art itself.
TECHNOLOGY AND WONDER
Meanwhile, Wonderspaces — a 16,000-square-foot art venue inside Scottsdale Fashion Square — has,
There’s no need for seasonal hibernation or an all-out escape if you’re looking for some one-of-a-kind entertainment this summer. “
Phoenix is just the second city to launch Artopia: The Immersive Art Experience after the innovative and collaborative exhibition’s successful opening in Chicago last year.
Immersive Klimt: Revolution Photo Courtesy of Immersive Klimt: Revolution
Artopia: The Immersive Art Experience // Photo Courtesy of Fever
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Feverup communications specialist Farah Jad says that Candlelight Concerts provide classical music fans an opportunity to be reminded of why they fell in love with the genre and music fans of all genres an opportunity to hear some of their favorite songs in a new way.
Four Seasons or romantic jazz performances featuring Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole and more. Several of these artists will be featured in June performances indoors and outdoors at Butterfly Wonderland.
The “Friends” Experience will wrap up its run May 8 in Phoenix after having been a huge hit for both casual and superfans of the iconic 90s sitcom. Visitors walk through 12 rooms filled with set recreations, history and fun facts about the show. There are many photo opportunities and, just like the characters, everyone ultimately winds up at the Central Perk coffee shop with the legendary orange couch.
Wonderspaces “The Immigrant” by Michael Murphy. Photo by Yadira Villarreal
See website for dates, hours and location $30+ | geniessecretbazaar.com
Candlelight Concerts
over the last three years, featured 60 different artists from all over the world. The installations are visually impactful and often interactive, all meant to make the viewer think, discuss and feel a sense of wonder.
Immersive Klimt: Revolution
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See website for dates and hours Lighthouse Artspace 4301 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale $35+ | immersiveklimt.com
One of Wonderspaces’ newest installations is “The Immigrant” by Perceptual Art pioneer Michael Murphy — a 3D halftone sculpture created from 2,300 wooden balls that, when viewed from a distance, reveal the image of the artist’s partner. Another is “Radiance (Infinity Box No. 6)” by Matt Elson — a two-person experience where the view from the arranged windows changes with your position.
See website for dates and hours
Scottsdale Fashion Square 7014 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale $24; youth, student, senior, teacher, military and healthcare worker discounts available wonderspaces.com
Experience
See website for dates and hours
Those four exciting experiences are merely the tip of the iceberg, though, when it comes to the infinite number of ways that you can have fun while simultaneously beating the heat this summer.
Genie’s Secret Bazaar: An Exploratory Magical Adventure
Meanwhile, a waitlist is forming for Genie’s Secret Bazaar: An Exploratory Magical Adventure — an experiential event set to debut in June at a secret venue. Visitors will explore a space modeled after the classic Arabian Nights tale of “Aladdin and the Magic Lamp.” Doors open to reveal secret rooms where magicians, games, fortune tellers and other performers will entertain. Guests will also be able to purchase exotic food and drinks from around the world.
The “Friends” Experience Through May 8
Visit Images Arizona’s website — imagesarizona.com — to discover additional air-conditioned adventures all summer long.
See website for dates, times and locations $30+ | candlelightexperience.com
Wonderspaces
See website for times Paradise Village Gateway 10845 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix $30.50+ | friendstheexperience.com
Artopia: The Immersive Art Experience
Immersive Klimt: Revolution
Artopia 313 W. Apache St., Phoenix $29+ | artopiaexperience.com
FRIENDS, GENIES AND MORE
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1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Crispy Chicken Thighs
Deglaze the skillet with wine, scraping up any brown bits stuck to the bottom with a wooden spoon. Cook until the liquid has almost completely evaporated, about 3 minutes. Add broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and maintain a slow simmer for 10 minutes.
1/4 cup vegetable oil
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3 large leeks (white and pale green
Ingredients:
2 pounds skin-on, bone-in Freshly ground black pepper chicken thighs
1 cup fresh peas (may substitute thawed frozen peas)
Writer and Photographer Francine thefancypantskitchen.comColes
4 garlic cloves (thinly sliced) 2 bay leaves
1 tablespoon granulated garlic 2 teaspoons sweet paprika
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup mint leaves (torn if large)
Directions:
Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel then season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Place chicken thighs on a foil-lined rimmed baking sheet. Roast until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crackly and crisp, 40–45 minutes.
About 15 minutes prior to the end of roasting the chicken, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add leeks and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened, about 3 minutes. Add lemon zest and bay leaves and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 20 seconds.
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil parts only, sliced 1/4-inch thick)
In a large bowl, combine vegetable oil with the remaining spice mixture. Add the chicken thighs and turn to coat. Let sit at room temperature for 40–45 minutes, or cover and refrigerate for up to one day, turning the chicken thighs occasionally.
1/8 teaspoon cayenne Kosher salt
In a medium bowl, combine garlic, paprika, cayenne and 1-1/2 teaspoon salt. Rub one tablespoon of the spice mixture under the skin of the chicken thighs, making sure to leave the skin attached.
5 2-inch long strips of lemon zest 1/3 cup dry white wine
Serves: 4
Arrange vegetables on a platter, top with chicken thighs and serve immediately.
Add peas to the skillet. If using fresh peas, heat for 3 minutes. If using thawed frozen peas, cook until warmed through, about 1 minute. Toss in mint then season with more salt, if needed. Remove bay leaves.
RECIPEItisverydifficultto make crispy chicken thighs without searing them on the cooktop and making a huge-splatter mess, right? Wrong! With this method — along with the freshest spring ingredients — you will not have to go to a restaurant for amazing crispy chicken anymore!
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