August 2014 by The Norman Transcript

TOWN

Aug. 8, 2014

what’s

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From the editor

Q&A with local Emmy-winning filmmakers

Book & music reviews

Hidden gems on Netflix

Pidgin Band drops new album

Midsummer Nights’ Fair

of Oz” 20 5 “Wizard back on screen

New gallery opens at Mainsite

Duck Tales: 3 new ducks ready to go

PB&J Jam makes picnic at the park 8.8.14

from the editor’s desk

ello Norman,

Observing all traffic laws, it takes 15 minutes to get from SE Highway 9 to NW Robinson St. Norman isn’t a big town, but it’s not that small. That’s the summer driving phenomenon, one of the hallmarks of a blissfully lazy Norman summer. In the coming weeks thousands of OU students will return to campus (many of them transplant Texans, like myself), and the checkered flag will turn to brake lights. It’s midsummer, but the return of the floating Sooners makes it feel markedly different. Lines are a little longer. An open patio table at The Library becomes an endangered species and the night life gets a little louder. I’m not decrying the tide coming in, just giving low tide some appreciation. The university’s youthful energy surges through town, fueling local business, artists,

8.8.14

TOWN

staff

musicians and shaping the town’s culture. So, welcome back to the students and all the accompaniments they bring along: Regular store hours, OU football season, concerts at Catlett Music Center, great shows at Weitzenhoffer Theatre and galleries at the Fred Jones Jr museum. The list goes on. So, in the coming weeks, give the Norman summer a loving embrace. Check out the Midsummer Nights’ Fair at Lions Park. Get outside. Enjoy the pace. It’s about to cool off outside and heat up at the same time. ——— In this edition of NTown, we take a look towards Midsummer Nights’ Fair, a weekend of art exhibitions, interactive painting walls and live music, as well as the unveiling of three new ducky statues. In music, Norman’s own Afrobeat gem Pidgin Band releases its new album later this month, Moore-based band Plain Speak re-records and releases an album lost to the tornado

Publisher Mark Millsap

Cover Design Anthony Kimball

Production Manager Rob Rasor

Executive Editor Andy Rieger

Advertising Representatives Rebekah Collins Robin Escarcega Kimberly Lehenbauer Ryan Dillard Angela Williams

Writers Mack Burke Doug Hill Mary Newport Katherine Parker Scott Strandberg Jessicu Bruha

Editor Mack Burke Layout Artist Mack Burke

and Red Wanting Blue takes listeners on an auditory trip across America. ‘The Wizard of Oz’ will be on the big screen at The Sooner Theatre and film columnist Scott Strandberg helps you find something better to watch on Netflix. For the Q&A, NTown catches up with Emmy Award Winning filmmakers Jay Sheldon and Jason Gwynn to talk about the conversion from film to digital, the death of the small movie theater and rubbing elbows with fame. This issue also features the first cut of NTown’s new original comic “Cori and Ander.” (If you fancy yourself a cartoonist, drop me a line). Finally, we take a look through the lens at the Norman night life scene.

See you at Lions Park,

— Mack Burke

Photographers Kyle Phillips Jay Chilton Mack Burke Nick Powers

N-town is a monthly publication of The Norman Transcript, 215 E. Comanche St, Norman, OK 73070. (Phone: 405.321.1800). Letters or editorial contributions should be sent to: N-town, P.O. Drawer 1058, Norman, OK, 73070 or emailed to mburke@normantranscript.com. N-town is not responsible for unsolicited submissions. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content in any manner, without permissions is prohibited. Address advertising inquiries to Debbi Knoll, 405-366-3554 or dknoll@normantranscript.com. N-town can be found online.

Off to see the Wizard By Katherine Parker

Don’t be confused, although your first instinct may be to check the calendar and confirm it isn’t Halloween. Norman residents are off to see the Wizard and the Tin Man, Cowardly Lions, Scarecrows, Wicked Witches and of course, Dororthys who will descend on downtown Norman on August 23 to watch “The Wizard of Oz” and raise money for the United Way of Norman. Movie Day for United Way was dreamed up by Republic Bank and Trust of Norman in conjunction with Sooner Theatre as a way to involve the whole community in its fundraising efforts for United Way. “With the chili cook-off, our previous fundraising efforts were internal. We wanted to change it up to bring the whole community together and make fundraising a fun event,” Mariann Lawson, director of marketing and community relations, said. Lawson said “The Wizard of Oz” was selected after much discussion between Republic Bank fundraiser committee members and the realization that no one had ever seen the movie on a big screen. “In celebration of the movie’s 75th anniversary and the fact none of us had ever seen the movie in a theatre, it was just perfect,” Lawson said. United Way of Norman’s 2014 fundraising campaign has set a

Movie Day for United Way brings cinema classic back to big screen at Sooner Theatre

fundraising goal of $2.05 million. “We inched toward that goal last year and got closer than we thought we would given the storms, so we really want to hit that number and beat it,” said United Way President Kristin Collins. “Sadly that number doesn’t come close to meeting all the needs the agencies have, but all we can do is keep doing everything we can to keep growing the drive.” As part of the fundraising campaign, Republic Bank and Trust and 28 other local companies serve as pacesetters, which host company drives and sponsor community fundraising activities. “Our Pacesetter companies are so critical for the success of the drive. It’s not just a matter of them going first. They are exceptional in their commitment to United Way, their creativity and the resources they put toward their campaigns, which are just unbelievable,” Collins said. The money Movie Day for United Way raises will directly go to United Way of Norman’s 2014 fundraising campaign. Collins said it’s important for the community to know that all the money raised for United Way stays in Norman and that only the finest organizations are supported. “We provide a backbone for a lot of services the community depends on to be there,” Collins See OZ, Page 25

8.8.14

STORM AND FLIGHT New Mainsite gallery show a study in contrast By Doug Hill

Dual solo exhibitions of work by artists Elise Deringer and Mohammad 6 Javaheri open today at the Mainsite Contemporary Art Gallery, 122 E. Main St. The opening reception is from 6 to 10 p.m., with the closing reception on Sept. 12 during the same hours. Deringer’s collection of work, which includes drawings and paintings is titled “A Softer Storm.” Javaheri’s gathering of several oil and acrylic paintings bears the name 8.8.14 “Line of Flight.” Together, it’s an ambitious assemblage of work that was produced primarily in their shared Norman studio, which happens to be in a space directly above Mainsite. One of Javaheri’s striking canvases is titled “King Monkey.” It’s rendered broadly in Earth tones with muted yellows and cobalt blue bands. A regal simian sits atop a tree stripped of leaves. Around him is a confusion of recognizable objects and indecipherable shapes. “I have a fascination with nature and at the heart of it is evolution and evolutionary process,” Javaheri said. “It mixes an abstraction of elements into this cosmic soup that throws out products such as us, animals and plants.” He juxtaposes ambiguous elements with concrete objects in a way

that may be unsettling for the viewer. There’s a foreboding and possibly even sinister element in some of his pictures that draws one into a place where danger may lurk. Javaheri who was born in Iran is also a scientist with a background in chemistry. “I had a similar fascination with that discipline but was looking through a different window,” he said. “Now the periodic table of elements have been replaced with tonalities, color and forms. I throw them on the canvas and they fight for survival.” Javaheri took up drawing during his second year of graduate studies in chemistry and it became a meaningful daily ritual for him. He discovered that art was more suited to his personal investigation of the universe than laboratory science. Deringer describes her work as being rooted in landscapes. They are not aimed at documenting specific valleys or mountaintops but instead convey a sense of place in more personal terms. Slices of overcast sky may divide a gun metal gray arroyo from a rusty river. A promontory in orange and salmon colors rises over a jet-black plain. “When I was growing up, our house was out in the country near Little Axe situated almost exactly on the line between the forest and a big

Photo Provided

Mohammad Javaheri and Elise Deringer’s works will be on display at the Mainsite gallery.

stretch of prairie,” Deringer said. “Expansiveness puts things in a different perspective. It’s almost as much a journey inside as outside, with so much promise and strange record of time. Human scale becomes very much changed.” She likens landscape to the frequently used literary device of comparing vast regions to the human mind. “For me, memories of being someplace are not so much what it looked like but what it felt like being there,”

she said. That emotional connectedness comes across in paintings that are skillfully textured and often carry thick bands of uneven surfacing. She uses salt, dyes, glues and other unconventional materials rather than typical oil and acrylic paints to color her canvases. Deringer values salt in particular for its historical and geographical significance. She collages it into the canvas and affixes the mineral with polymer sealer. “It sparkles See GALLERY, Page 22

Just two years ago, producer-director Jason Gwynn and producer-editor Jay Sheldon had an idea to make a documentary about the movie world’s conversion from film to digital. They made it because they thought they could make a good movie. So they made a movie. Then, they ended up at the Emmys. Then, they ended up leaving with one. 8 “Going Dark” won a Heartland Emmy for Best Short Format Program. The distinction of the heartland region was having the best short format program on television in the country’s region (Oklahoma, Colorado, Kansas and Nebraska). It is the biggest regional Emmy chapter (landwise) in the country. The documentary brings to light the struggle of small movie theaters to stay afloat while Hollywood pushes towards all-digital formats, sending film, projectionists and many 8.8.14 theaters the way of the dodo. The irony of the project is that the two-man team couldn’t have afforded to make their film about film without doing so digitally. Borrowing camera equipment from OCCC, where they met, the two managed to make the movie out of their own pocket. NTown caught up with the dynamic duo to pick their brains about the future of film, rubbing elbows at the Emmys and why they chose to pick up the camera in the first place. NTown: What was the inspiration for this project? Gwynn: Just growing up, this is how we experienced movies and everyone’s talking about digital filmmaking and nobody was really talking about the big experience and how projectionists’ jobs were becoming irrelevant. So, I had this buddy ... we would actually screen our college movies up at this movie theater. We had a rela-

with By Mack Burke Emmy Award winners Jay Sheldon and Jason Gwynn

tionship with him and found out he was closing down. He said he needed a projectionist and I was like ‘I’ve never done it,’ but he hired me on and we decided to bring a camera and start shooting stuff and it turned into a short film. NTown: As far as projectionists going the way of the dinosaur, do you feel that something is lost going away from film? Gwynn: I think we both have our own kind of opinion about that. It’s a natural progression. With this film (to digital) conversion, it’s a mammoth change. Other things were slowly converted, but with film, Hollywood’s saying ‘do or die now. If you don’t convert, you just might as well shut down now.’ They’re not going to ship film prints at all anymore. So, a lot of theaters shut down, a lot of small-town theaters and things like that. So, we’re just kind of shining light on something that’s gone forever, so future generations can see what it used to be like for 125 years. Sheldon: We grew up going to movie theaters and seeing it all on film, so it’s kind of sad to see it all go away, but as filmmakers, digital has given us a lot of opportunity to do what we do now. I mean, we wouldn’t have been able to make this movie if it was all on film. I mean we don’t have the money to do that. So, digital has made everything a lot cheaper and we’ve been able to make movies we never would have been able to otherwise, so we’re really appreciative of the way things are going but we’re also sad to see film go away. Gwynn: ... Kind of paying homage to a dying art that’s been around forever.

NTown: What was the crew like? How did you guys put this all together? Was it privately funded? Gwynn: It was between us. That’s something I’m proud of. We’ve been doing it for years — doing our own little shorts and working together — so, we ran the camera, we directed, did the sound. We did everything. Just two guys coming in there with an idea. Sheldon: We were working full time, so we would come up to the theater on weekends and after work and do it in our spare time. It was all happening while the theater was still running. NTown: Talk a little bit about the theater. Sheldon: It was at the Penn Square Mall Theater. It was bought out by AMC but at the time it was the Dickinson Theater 10. I don’t know. When did it open? Gwynn: 1987. They had the world premiere of Twister there. Back in the time, it was the biggest theater in the city. So they had that there. It was kind of run down but they still had it running pretty well. The manager there, Clif Campbell, projectionist Patrick Jenson. Those are our two documentary subjects. They kept it running really good with hardly any budget. It was about 25-years-old or something. Sheldon: A lot of it is in the movie but they had lots of great stories about the old days and Clif has a lot of experiences of remembering what it was like when it first opened and seeing movies there. It is interesting to see what it was now at the end of his life shortly before it got renovated and then him talking about it in the beginning.

Jason Gwynn (left) and Jay Sheldon on the “set” of their Emmy Award winning documentary “Going Dark.” Gwynn and Sheldon had to wear a lot of hats working as a two-man crew and financing the movie out of pocket. Use the QR code above to view their Emmy Award winning documentary.

NTown: What do you guys think about where movies are headed even beyond that? Will people always want to go out to see a movie? Gwynn: Yeah, it’s a social experience. They had the same problem when TVs came out in the 50s. They tried to do the 3-D then and the scope. I think they are going to try to come up with ways to keep people in the theaters. Hollywood survived before the movie theater, but it’s a whole new generation. It’s all digitized and everything like that. So, yeah. Sheldon: I think that’s kind of like how IMAX is. Things are getting bigger, so they feel like they need a bigger screen. They need a different experience so people won’t want to stay home. But for me, I always like going to movies. Even though it’s changing and not the thing that it used to be, it’s still a different experience than sitting in your living watching a movie on the television.

NTown: What is your take on the widespread use of 3-D out there now? Sheldon: Sometimes it’s good, but sometimes it’s unnecessary, though. Gwynn: I like it. It’s just not worth the ticket price. I enjoy it. If it was the same price, I would always chose 3-D personnaly. NTown: Well, what’s next for you guys? And looking forward, will you guys continue to work together? Gwynn: We hope so. We have always been together, helping to produce a short, cinematography mind, narrative short, but this is our first time codirecting with each other. We went pretty well, and hopefully we will get some recognition for this and get some more work ... Sheldon: We found out we work really well

together so I think we will definitely work together in the future but we also have our own separate projects that we do and kind of stay involved with. NTown: What’s going on for you guys separately? Sheldon: I just finished a short film about an accordion player. I’m trying to figure out what to do with it now. But from there, I’m not sure what I’m doing next. NTown: Got a title for the movie? Sheldon: “Alone With My Accordion” starring Lucas Ross. Gwynn: He’s a TV personality. Emmy award winner and things like that.

See Q&A, Page 10

8.8.14

Q&A: Sheldon: I found out about him years ago and we worked on another movie together and I found out that he played the accordion and that kind of sparked the interest in that for me and we decided to work on this movie together. Gwynn: So our interests are kind of contrasts of each other. I’m a big pro-wrestling fan and he’s more of a dramady or what do you call it? Sheldon: I say the movies I want to do are dramadies- comedies and drama.

Gwynn: And I like the 80s, cheesy action movie stuff. So I did a wrestling short about five years ago now that got a lot of attention so I thought that was going to be my goal for my first feature so I got the first draft and hopefully next spring I will be shooting the actual feature. Independent comedy about independent pro-wrestling as a comedy so that’s my next goal.

NTown: Ok, so less like a documentary and more like a narrative? 8.8.14 Gwynn: Right, but we love documentaries. This is actually [Sheldon’s] second one and this is my first. We found out how much we love it. There are so many great documentary stories out there that I personally want to do more as a narrative. That’s probably the road I will end up going but I probably want to make one feature narrative before I hang my boots up there. NTown: What was it like being in a room full of TV stars?

surreal. And just winning, we were the underdogs, we were in the back of the room at our table with everybody where this is what they do for a living and then these two guys entered a movie that got this far. It was just really surreal that we ended up taking home a statue that night. NTown: What did it feel like when they called your names? Sheldon: It was intense. We had been talking about this for so long now. Our original goal was getting it on TV first so that would be a huge deal and to even be there that night, that was incredible. To hear the nominations, our name called, it was crazy, ridiculous. Gwynn: It will be two years ago next month when we even thought about doing this. I just thought, ‘Ah, we should take a camera up there,’ and then two years later to have a statue in your hands. It was unbelievable. Sheldon: It was just a simple project that just started out with ‘Hey this is interesting. This theater is closing. Let’s see what we can do. Gwynn: I need to give a shoutout to OCCC. I was enrolled in an independent study course that allowed me to check out a camera and a light kit. The rest we got from a personal stash of equipment. So that’s all it was. I was able to take a camera out and shoot something for class and turned it in to my professor there. NTown: So perhaps the catchphrase, ‘From here, anything is possible’ is very true. Did you guys get to give an acceptance speech?

Sheldon: Well, it was incredible. Gwynn: Just seeing everybody you see on television right there in the same room with you, it’s kind of

Gwynn: It was cool. You get to see some clips of each of the nominations and they say, ‘And the Emmy goes to...’ A lot of it was pre-

recorded, so it was pretty cool. But no actual acceptance speech. You go up there, get a picture and then you go off. Sheldon: It actually gives you less to worry about, like who to thank, who you are forgetting, what you say. NTown: Are they heavy? Gwynn: Yeah. Whenever somebody holds one, they are like ‘Wow that’s heavy!’ Well yeah! It’s not a baseball trophy. It’s real. It’s sturdy. It’s the real deal. It’s just amazing. NTown: Reflecting back on all this, where are you guys from originally? Gwynn: I’m from Parkersburg, W.Va., and I moved here seven years ago to actually to attend OCCC’s film program because to me, it’s the best deal in the nation. Oh, it’s unbelievable. You can go there for $300 a class and you have a multi-million dollar sound stage. After I moved here, I even got a job there. I worked there for five years. I’m actually going to begin to teach there as an adjunct professor this fall. So, I moved here when I was 23, seven years ago. Sheldon: My story isn’t quite as interesting. I moved here when I was 11, so I’ve been here for quite a while but I have the same view of the college as he did because I was living here already. But, I was actually thinking about moving to LA to go to film school but then I heard about OCCC and everything that was going on there and decided that that was definitely the place to be because it’s such a cool thing we’ve got in Oklahoma and it has developed so much over the years. When I went there, they didn’t have everything they have now but it’s cool to see the change. Then Greg

Mellott came in and really started making things happen. Gwynn: Gray Frederickson, Oscar winner for the Godfather Part II, he’s the artist in residence there. He retired and wanted to come back to his home state but still wants to be around the community and loves teaching the students. The director of the program is Greg Mellott (who did) Jackie Chan’s “First Strike” and he’s influential and we would go off and shoot little documentaries with him. Jay and I met there at OCCC and we got experience under Greg’s helm I guess you would say. Sheldon: Yeah, because I worked there for awhile too. I think I left in 2008, 2009 but I was working there a lot with Greg and learned a lot from him. Gwynn: Yeah we both did. We credit him for success and teaching us little pointers. NTown: That’s seems like a smart approach. A lot of people in the industry probably say “yeah I’m going to go to L.A. where the food is” only to find .... Gwynn: Yeah, I mean with credibility you can start something there, but just going in there with nothing, then you think, “Why did I move here?” Now that I just got an Emmy, I can put those kind of questions to rest. It’s still possible in Oklahoma. NTown: I would think it would be a lot nicer here than constantly fighting uphill. Gwynn: Our immediate goals are still in Oklahoma. I want to get a feature under my belt. Sheldon: There are a lot of opportunities in Oklahoma and I think See Q&A, Page 13

books By Mary Newport Book: “Lovers at the Chameleon Club, Paris 1932” (2014) Author: Harry Hart Frank The truth is a slippery thing, and in few places is it more so than in Francine Prose’s “Lovers at the Chameleon Club, Paris 1932.” The fictional story of a real photograph, the novel explores a multilayered tangle of love, trust and deception in the city of lights. Five narratives twine around each other — and sometimes contradict each other — as they reconstruct the history of Lou Villars, an athlete, cross-dresser and racecar driver who grows from a conflicted girl to a remorseless torturer for the Gestapo in Nazi-occupied Paris. The novel is oddly anticlimactic, as Lou’s descent into evil is a forgone conclusion, outlined in plain terms every few pages. Lou herself is somewhat flat, with no real personality and little spirit beyond her bubbling rage at each fresh tragedy in her life. Fortunately, this stands in stark contrast to the other inhabitants of the novel. From the penniless photographer making love to Paris through a lens — and making up stories about noble Hungarian bears to make ends meet — to the seemingly jaded duchess hiding her inexperience with oysters, each character is fascinating enough to be a protagonist in their own right. Unconcerned with their place in history, they live in snapshots of time stolen from the shimmering glamor of the ‘20s, the looming shadows of the ‘30s and the smoking rubble of the ‘40s. “Lovers at the Chameleon Club, Paris 1932” is perfect for readers who want to see all sides of a story. It is an intricate mosaic of identities as personalities clash and mesh in smoky nightclubs, rainswept streets and bloody cells. The novel is at once an intimate portrait of five lives and a sweeping panorama of the city that can embrace lovers or grind them into dust. Read if: You think the journey is about more than the destination. Don’t read if: You’re appalled by the decadent or the delinquent.

By Mary Newport Book: “The Phantom of the Opera” (1909) Author: Gaston Leroux This is one of the most famous Parisian romances of all time, but very few readers are familiar with the text in its original form. Movies and musicals have overshadowed “Le Fantôme de l’Opéra,” which originally appeared in 1909 as a magazine serial by Gaston Leroux. Its popularity led it to be published as a book, then adapted for stage and screen. Most readers already know the story — a dark stranger creeps through a glittering opera house, terrorizing the owners and pursuing his obsession with the beautiful singer Christine. But where the modern story focuses on the Phantom’s love, obscuring his ruthlessness with a misty haze of romance, Leroux weaves a darker tale. His Phantom is a madman, mind as twisted as his deformed face. He is not a figure of romance; he is the shadowy heart of a mystery that threatens to tear the opera house to the ground. “The Phantom of the Opera” is a classic thriller, a race to uncover the murderous Phantom’s buried secrets before he spills more blood and succeeds in his quest to make the terrified Christine his unwilling bride. If Leroux’s work has one failing, it is that the story becomes occasionally too much of a thriller. It is sometimes lurid in the captivating but cheap style of penny dreadfuls and pulp magazines, with overelaborate back stories and death plots. Those who can hold out through the garish scenes, however, will be well rewarded. Readers will feel they are traversing the labyrinthine passages and shadowy tunnels of the opera house with Raoul, Christine’s beloved, and find Christine’s horrified fascination with her tormentor infectious. Read if: You like swirling capes and flashing swords in your mysteries. Don’t read if: You have a crush on the Phantom and want to keep it.

music By Doug Hill Musician: Red Wanting Blue Album: “Little America” Why you should listen: These are thirteen new songs about American places big and small from Columbus, Ohio-based rock quintet Red Wanting Blue. The band is familiar to many here from playing a prime late afternoon Main Stage slot at Norman Music Festival a few years back. A glance at their 2014 tour schedule reveals that for them “Little America” includes performing in the megalopolises of LA and Washington D.C. The album’s title track is recognition of all of those folks in the fly-over states who want their personal expression to be heard. “We have a voice so clear/ we sing together so that Heaven may hear/ our songs from the middle of our little America,” lead vocalist and song writer Scott Terry croons. It’s sung with lightly shimmering instrumental accompaniment alongside his husky pipes. The composition is a gentle anthem to the magic and hope inside the many beating hearts across middle-America. To be accurate, much of the album focuses on just two hearts, those of Terry and his lover. In “Keep Love Alive” their pair of cardiac pumps are putting up a scrap that’s compared to World War III. The premise being that if they can argue with such passion there’s reason to believe it’s worth effort to keep the underlying love alive. Similarly, “Dumb Love” contemplates that cupid may have been stupid for crossing their paths. But Terry is having none of that because he knows true love when it knocks him to the ground. These tempestuous love tales are scored with a sophisticated flavor of rock. Orchestral string arrangement is used on one track and tuba and trumpet appear on another. First cut “Hallelujah” has a grand pomposity that would be a natural choice for adaptation by one of their home town’s high school marching bands. This album is a jaunt across the little parts of America where hearts still beat strongly to rock n roll.

By Doug Hill Musician: Plain Speak 8.8.14 Album: “Foundations” Why you should listen: It’s miraculous that this album by Moore-based Plain Speak ever came to fruition. Before ever being properly assembled the project was severely disrupted by the infamously devastating May 20, 2013 tornado. Most of the completed work was in the home of multiinstrumentalist band member Ben See. The structure was blown down with only the concrete slab foundation remaining. All 20-somethings, See regrouped with lead vocalist/ guitarist Dan Pechacek and percussionist Zach Nedbalek. In another shining example of “Moore Strong” they were determined to not only duplicate the music but make it even better. The record’s title is a memorialization of that bare cement underpinning left after the historic cyclone’s fury. Plain Speak’s music is far from furious. It’s a gentle and compelling sound that the band describes as “bedroom relationship rock.” It brings to mind the pacific and introspective strains of Pedro the Lion or Fleet Foxes. There are no roaring drum assaults or electric guitar tantrums. Much of the music is of a hypnotic albeit melodic cadence. The ten tracks are similar in temperament and minimalist intensity. Some of it hearkens all the way back to British invasion pop/rock circa mid1960s with thumping bass lines and windowpane check keyboards. Pechacek’s vocals are pleasantly seductive. A protective father would dread this fellow whispering pillow talk into his maiden daughter’s ear. The songs themselves are poetic with easily discernible lyrics. That doesn’t mean they’re readily understandable. Most defy deconstruction even with multiple listens. “Laughter over Crosswords” is a mélange of lyrical images both sweet and maddening in their obscurity. Others of the compositions share this clever ambiguity which is peculiar considering the band’s name. “Your Live-In Boyfriend” is more flat-footed. It’s about forgetting that guy from the past and moving with their love into the future. Foundations is a good freshman recording for Plain Speak to start and build from.

movies By Scott Strandberg

Hidden gems on

“Clue” (1985) A movie based on a board game may not sound like the most 12 compelling premise, but “Clue” is a thoroughly enjoyable throwback comedy romp that remains every bit as funny today as it was upon its theatrical release, back in 1985. Just like in the titular parlor game, a murderous dinner party turns into a quest 8.8.14 to determine who did it, where and with which weapon. Set in the 1950’s, characters from the board game, such as Mrs. Peacock and Colonel Mustard, are summoned to a hilltop mansion for a mysterious soirée. The guests all receive letters simply informing them that it would be in their best interests to attend, and they descend upon the house to discover the reasoning behind their seemingly random invitations. As it turns out, each of the guests is being blackmailed for political reasons by Mr. Boddy — a man who proclaims, “My business is secrets” — using his network of informants to provide him with the dirty secrets of everyone in Washington. When Mr. Boddy is shot, the remaining characters scramble

In this age of digital media, Netflix is entering nearly everyone’s homes. The streaming service is now a part of nearly 35 million American households, a number which is growing by the day. With that in mind, this column will serve to highlight films you may have overlooked on Netflix. Everyone sees the big ads for “World War Z” and

to solve the mystery of his death, while simultaneously eliminating the evidence against them. Written by the legendary John Landis (“Animal House,” “The Blues Brothers”), “Clue” provides a thoroughly entertaining commentary on the paranoia and faux-morality of a 1950’s America embroiled in McCarthyism. The political overtones that connect the characters — as well as their constant posturing and blame deflection — are as crucial to the film’s period-piece aesthetic as the costuming or set design. The forced secrecy of a nation living through the Red Scare is palpable, and adds considerable substance to a film that seems to be a simple comedic thriller on its surface. The cast is a collection of some of the eighties’ best Hollywood comedians. Tim Curry (“Rocky Horror Picture Show”), Michael McKean (“This Is Spinal Tap”), Christopher Lloyd (“Back To The Future”) and Madeline Kahn (“Blazing Saddles”) anchor a terrific ensemble cast that blends slapstick and ironic humor with improvisational zeal. The clever script plays up even more due to the cast’s comedic talents and effortless chemistry. When it was released theatrically, the film was distributed with three different endings, to simulate the unpredictable nature of the source material. This bold experiment likely hurt the film’s commercial

“Pain & Gain” when they log in to the service, so I’ll recommend films each month that may not pop up on the Netflix home screen. There won’t be any negative reviews here, just suggestions that could come in handy on that random Wednesday evening when nothing is on TV. Follow Scott on Twitter @scottstrandberg

success, as “Clue” failed to make back its meager $15 million budget. Since its original home-video release, the film has incorporated all three endings, and developed a bit of a cult following as a result. It may be nearly three decades old, but “Clue” has aged like a fine wine. The film still delivers the laughs as much as ever, and the madcap tone is a refreshing blast from the past. The mystery side of “Clue” isn’t particularly thrilling or scary, but as a comedy it remains hard to top. Roll the dice on this witty classic, and find out for yourself the answer to the timeless question: “Who killed Mr. Boddy?” “Clue” is rated PG for mild violence and mild sexual innuendo.

“Senna” (2010) I have never watched a single second of Formula One racing. I don’t watch motorsports in general, nor do I even particularly understand the appeal. Despite this, I believe that “Senna” is quite simply one of the world’s very finest sports films. Director Asif Kapadia’s documentary traces the rise of Ayrton Senna —

frequently referred to as the greatest driver ever — from his start a gokart racer to being one of the most celebrated figures in motorsports history. Senna, the pride of his native Brazil, could do things behind the wheel that no one else could. Outside the car, he was a smoothtalking, good-looking young man who captivated the sporting world. Senna quickly rose the ranks of F1, landing a position with McLaren Racing, the top team in the world, where he started a feud with teammate Alain Prost — a rivalry that started friendly, but quickly turned into anything but. Politicking efforts by a jealous Prost led to Senna being forced to forfeit a key victory and landed him a lengthy suspension, a move that lit the spark under one of the most heated rivalries in sports history. Consisting entirely of archival footage — edited seamlessly to produce a consistent, compelling narrative — “Senna” transports the viewer more than two decades back in time, creating a wholly immersive backdrop for the rivalry between Senna and Prost. In addition to their personal feud, the film highlights the intensely political nature of Formula One as a sport, as Senna’s feud with Prost spills over into another battle; this one with JeanMarie Balestre, the controversial See MOVIES, Page 30

Q&A: a lot of people are excited about making movies here and helping you. The community is really growing here. It’s a good time to be here making movies. Gwynn: There’s a full crew here. Studio movies come here and they hire 80 percent Oklahomans and they are here, working, willing to work, and they are just as good here as anywhere else. It’s pretty cool. NTown: If you could shoot any location in the world to get a certain shot, where would it be? Sheldon: Oh I don’t know. I have never thought about that. Maybe from the top of Everest. Gwynn: I always thought Europe would be cool. There are just so many cool things there. Sheldon: I have always liked the

idea of shooting movies and using that to travel the world so maybe nothing specific in mind, but just traveling the world. Gwynn: I think both of us agree that we just want to make a living doing what we love, that’s enough. If we could just find something where you go to work everyday and enjoy yourself, that’s your success. NTown: Alright, favorite movie? Gwynn: I don’t have one. I really don’t. There are some that I love, but I don’t have an actual favorite. I can tell you my favorite one as a kid and it’s still special to me, and that’s “Tombstone.” Sheldon: There are so many awesome movies. “Forest Gump” is one of my all-time favorites.

birds of a feather Norman Afrobeat group Pidgin Band takes flight with new album By Doug Hill

8.8.14

Pidgin’s new album, “A Pharao’s Ransom” features an Afrobeat sound, complete with horns, intricate percussion and other inﬂuential stylings.

Large doesn’t always mean in-charge but in the case of seven-piece Afrobeat group Pidgin Band (PB) it’s a remarkable part of their power. The four-year-old Norman outfit who plays music originally inspired by Nigerian and Ghanaian funk and jazz have been seizing attention around the metro this summer. Their scorching set at Jazz in June’s main stage finale was nothing short of riveting. Thousands of spectators undoubtedly became fans as the band blazed through an extended performance during an afternoon sun storm. They were reminiscent of the early days of Oklahoma’s gift to the modern jazz world, Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey. PB’s players are trumpeter Marcus Spitz, Kiel Denhert on drum kit, guitarists Tyler Smith and Eli Wimmer, bassist Dorian Small, Eric Walschap on baritone

saxophone and auxiliary percussionist Ricky Kemple. NTown caught up with Spitz and Denhert on an afternoon break from shooting a music video at local landmark the Chouse for their new album titled “A Pharaoh’s Ransom.” First off, they explained the band’s musical and personnel dynamic. “Our initial thought was to bring in guys that not only played different instruments but also had different focuses on music,” Spitz said. “For instance our lead guitar player loves to listen to metal and the other is a real indie-head. Our percussionist loves hip hop.” Creating an amalgam of different sounds into something dissimilar and unique has been their plan. It goes to what “pidgin” actually means, a linguistic combination of existing languages into a new tongue. The musical results have been stunningly attractive, compelling people to

dance wherever PB sets up. Their original compositions are not just pale imitations of the father of Afrobeat, Nigeria’s great Fela Kuti (1938-1997). They put a spin on the genre that comes from personal artistic introspection and what they each dig. It’s very much Okie-centric Afrobeat. “The guitarists have always been 1960s fuzz-funk psychedelia,” Spitz said. “There’s some Krautrock in there too,” Denhert added. “Jazz and soul pop have been where a lot of our writing has been headed.” PB is certainly a democratic organization. “After one person has brought a song idea the creative process among us can alter it drastically, because we all work really well together and have been doing it for a long time,” Denhert said. It starts with an individual’s concept that’s then brainstormed by the group. “We pay homage to each person and what style they bring, then write to fit our collective sound,” Spitz said. “Everybody writes their own parts.” Decisions that don’t reach consenus fall to Spitz, but those are rare occurrences. “There’s a huge amount of musical trust among us,” Spitz said. “Nine times out of ten I’m going to love whatever they’ve brought.” One of the lessons learned in four years is that PB is all about the final product rather than any one musician’s specific part. That credo has taught patience and the value of synchronicity. “We’re all-instrumental

If you go • What: Pidgin CD release show • When: 10:30 p.m. Aug. 29 at The Deli, 309 White St., Norman $5 at the door • Pidgin is seven-piece instrumental funk, soul, Afrobeat band from Norman. • For a sneak peak at Pidgin’s new album, “A Pharaoh’s Ransom,” visit pidginmusic.com

and can’t hide behind a singer,” Denhert said. “We’ve learned to listen and mesh with each other really well. If you wait long enough you will be highlighted in this band.” Spitz described it as discovering ways to make the entire song shine rather than just concentrating on one’s solo spot. An Afrobeat band may not be an obvious sound to come out of central Oklahoma. “People here are really gung ho for country music,” Spitz said. “The biggest thing that can hold us back from a potential fan probably is not having lyrics or story songs that you can relate to quicker. With us, there’s more getting into what’s happening musically to get it.” PB occasionally introduces vocalist Carly Patterson to the line-up along with the vocal stylings of their own percussionist Ricky Kemple. “It’s usually just one or two covers on a random set but there’s been talk of writing some numbers with lyrics,” Spitz said. “One Valentine’s Day we did a bunch of Chaka Kahn songs because she’s a big influ-

8.8.14

Top: Pidgin Band performs at Jazz in June at Brookhaven Village. Above: Marcus Spitz (left) and Kiel Dehnert (right) of Pidgin Band.

ence on us. We’ve covered Carole King and it was pretty nasty too.” An undeniable key to PB’s audience excitement is that it’s up tempo and highly-charged music. “Energy and cohesion make for strong sets,” Denhert said.

We’re at the point where we stick really well with each other and are able to keep the energy high. We like to keep it dance-y for the folk.” Finding the right emotional balance between roaring funk and passages of jazzy minimalism has been

something they’ve successfully mastered. Even young college-age enthusiasts at the Deli’s dance-fests need a chance to breathe. You have to read your crowd and be honest by showing how much of a good time you’re having yourself,” Spitz said.

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MId SUMMER NIGHTS’ FAIR

By Mack Burke

orman has more than its fair share of festivals and outdoor shindigs. There’s the Norman Music Festival, Groovefest, Jazz in June, Taste of Norman, just to name a few. But Midsummer Nights’ Fair is the arts festival. There’s always music whenever the Norman community gets together and Midsummer is no exception, but the visual arts are the centerpiece for one weekend in August, where it all culminates at Lions Park. The festival brings together 30 visual artists, who take over the park with booths showcasing a little bit of everything: Drawing, pottery, jewelry, glass, woodworking, painting, photography and a few sure-fire surprises that leave you saying ‘I wish I would’ve thought of that.’ “Midsummer Nights is the only arts festival in Norman put on by a visual arts organization,” Firehouse Art Center executive director Douglas Elder said. “The Firehouse believes in all-inclusive art experiences.” With that in mind, the event includes several free family-friendly visual art activities and demonstrations in a range of artistic mediums provided by the FAC’s own instructors and faculty. It’s an interactive experience and it’s not a pay-to-play event. Sure, art vendors will be there hawking their dazzling wares, but there’s plenty to do without spending a dime. It’s a family-driven event with “something for everyone,” Elder said. The central tent hosts a variety of free, familyfriendly art activities, including foil sculpting, painting “creative cubes” and portrait drawing from a live model. The Children’s Art Wall gives young painters a chance to express their creativity, with the assistance of local artists and FAC instructors. “Midsummer Nights has developed in a way that breaks out of the traditional “fair” mold,” Elder said. “The event stays mission driven, focusing on celebrating amazing regional artists and the power of

art education, while providing a creative outlet for individuals of all ages and backgrounds.” In its 37th year, the festival was created by the three potters who founded the Firehouse, Audrey Bethel, Carolyn Folkins, and Carol Whitney. Since its inception, the festival has grown into an event where the community comes together by the thousands to celebrate the visual arts in a way unlike any other event in Norman. Photographer Clifton Brown likes the variety and the chance to talk to people. “As an artist, you get the chance to speak to the people who are buying your art. You are able to tell stories about almost every piece that you have created and that gives them a perspective on your art and who you are as an artist,” he said. “Art is important because many people express their best ideas with their art. An artist can create a powerful, yet simple piece of art that expresses an idea better than a conversation, conflict or argument.” A Norman resident himself, Brown believes the festival is a perfect picture of the town. “Norman has everything you need, but it has a small town feel. I know so many people that leave here and then return within a few years, if not a few months.” Three-year festival veteran Mark Andrews echoed that sentiment. He suffered a dislocated shoulder and other injuries doctors found during surgery. So, he’s having friends and family help him set up his booth, but the show must go on. “When I told people I was hurt, they started calling to see what they could do to help. That speaks to the kind of community we have here. Norman is a great town with the opportunity for artists and just raising a family. I’ve been here for 40 years and I fully enjoy the community.” Andrews looks forward to the festival every year as a chance to reconnect. “I taught for 33 years, so it’s neat to be able to visit with some of my former students. Some of them are doing art and

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MId SUMMER NIGHTS’ FAIR

By Mack Burke

8.8.14

some are in bands that play at the festival. I kind of get a connection to the art being in the park, because my family is truly connected to the parks system, because my grandfather was park superintendent for 30 years and Andrews Park was later named after him. My kids used to go to Andrews Park and say ‘this is my park.’ I had to say ‘no, it’s technically not,’ but we’ve had some good memories there and at Lions Park.” Good music sets the mood and to that end, the FAC has partnered with Wess McMichael of McMichael Music, Norman’s largest, longest running private teaching facility, who puts together the music program for the two-night celebration and has for the last five years. This year’s lineup includes local gems, well polished by age and experience, but it also features young performers from McMichael’s studio who get to cut their teeth playing their first festival in front of friends and family. “I love doing it, because I feel like the general public doesn’t really realize the kind of talent we have in Norman,” McMichael said. “Instead of hearing bands try to cover music as close as they can to the album, I love presenting bands and artists who write and perform their own material. I think what’s kind of a secret about Norman is the kind of quality, the world class musicians we have here per capita. I lived in Austin for a good while and the stuff we get here is of equal caliber. It’s a smaller population and sometimes, a culture that has yet to realize fully the gift it has.” Anybody can find their favorite flavor at Midsummer and if you’re literally hungry, there’s food on hand too. As for the name, it’s not exactly accurate given that it happens in late August, but the date was selected to save fair goers from the true midsum-

If you go • What: Midsummer Nights’ Fair • When: 6 to 11 p.m., Aug. 22 and 23 at Lions Park, 450 S. Flood Ave.

Music lineup MAIN STAGE Aug. 22 6 p.m. — Jane Mays 7 p.m. — Morningstar Band 8 p.m. — The Ravens 9 p.m. — Derek Harris and the Bones Band 10 p.m. — The Oh Johnny! Girls Aug. 23 6 p.m. — Camille Harp 7 p.m.— Kyle Reid and the Low Swinging Chariots 8 p.m. — Kierston White and the Dirty Dishes 9 p.m. — Pidgin Band 10 p.m. — Bungalouski SIDE STAGE McMichael Music Student Showcase

mer heat. “This is the event’s second consecutive year with late August dates, providing a cooler, more enjoyable atmosphere during both evenings,” Elder said. “The decision to move the dates last year was a conscious effort to include both school children and OU students back in Norman for the new semester.” Sometimes, it takes the perspective of an outsider to get a clear look at the situation. Visiting artist E. Susan Chambers put it this way: “Norman is the kind of town that gives Oklahoma a good reputation. Educated, artistic, engaged. Once the sun goes down and the lights come up, the park takes on a different personality. You almost expect magic to happen.” It’s a fair expectation.

Julie Bragg / NTown Drake Martin, son of Chelsi Martin, paints on the art wall last year at Midsummer Nightsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Fair.

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Jay Chilton / NTown Norman High School student Miranda Tucker paints a beach last year at Midsummer Nightsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Fair in Lions Park. Tucker painted a scene at the fair when she was in third grade and wanted to reproduce her experience.

Duck tales Three vibrant new ducky statues to make their debut at Midsummer Nights’ Fair 20

By Mack Burke

hree new duck sculptures, painted by local Norman artists, will join the 12 already in place across the Norman parks landscape, but before they find a home they’ll go on display at the Midsummer Nights’ Fair. The artists, selected by the Norman Public Arts Board, spent a month, on 8.8.14 average, preparing the fiberglass masterpieces from initial design to the final protective coating used to stave off the elements and would-be vandals. Don Schooler (full time attorney for the state of Oklahoma) said he was “always that kid drawing in the back of class instead of paying attention.” Art is a release for him and somewhat fittingly, he chose a pirate theme. “I do it because it’s cheaper than therapy,” he laughs. “It might be a duck (pond) thing, but I think it’s just fun. Art’s been a passion my whole life, and if you can expose the public, and especially young people in particular, it helps to instill a lifelong interest in art. And who doesn’t think the ducks are fun?” Artists (and full-time musicians) Christina Giacona, and Patrick Conlon decided on “Brenda the Builder” to

thwart gender stereotypes. “We really wanted to create something in the vein of Goldie Blox that would inspire young girls to see that pursuing engineering, construction. and other male dominated fields is absolutely possible. I always see the sign ‘Men at Work’ at construction sites and that really served as the inspiration for this design,” Giacona said. Marilina Resaco Pratt (dentist by trade) designed her duck in the style of artist Gustave Moreau in the hopes that it would inspire young artists to learn about art and have fun with imagination. She said she enjoyed the experience, even though it will be hard to let her baby go. “I’m hoping it ends up somewhere in central Norman, but I’ll be happy wherever he ends up. Tulsa has penguins, Shawnee has horses, and Norman has put its stamp on the duck. “We both think it’s about the duck pond. It’s where the medieval fair used to be held, and it’s one of our favorite places in Norman,” Giacona said. “Usually when something is called a ‘duck pond’ there’s a disappointing number of ducks, but the one in Norman must have gotten some good reviews on Duck-Yelp.”

“Ahoy Ducky, “ by Don Schooler

“Brenda the Builder,” by Christina Giacona & Patrick Conlon

“Ducky Moreau,” by Marilina Resaco Pratt

SAMO DUCKY

PROJECT

In 2010, the Norman Public Arts Board started working with local Norman partners to develop community-based public sculptures that would foster social interaction, develop arts awareness, and enhance Norman’s parks. Unique through its entirely local production and development, the Samo Ducky project is the ongoing result of this collaboration.The original “Samo Ducky” resides in Lions Park, while 11 other ducks, enhanced and painted by local artists, have been placed in additional parks within the community.

Tull Park N Porter Ave

36th Ave NW

35 W Robinson St

Castlerock Park Tecumseh Rd

N Berry Rd

Lions Memorial Park

W Main St

Andrews Park

Alameda St

Centennial Park

Lions Park

St es mm Sy

Rotary Park S Flood Ave

W Boyd St

E Robinson St

Eastwood Park

Colonial Estates Park E Lindsey St

Jenkins Ave

Chataqua Ave

Reaves Park

Samo Ducky by Red Dot Sculpture

Dig Duck by Chris McDaniel

Cloudy by Christian Pitt

Swimmin’ Sammy Steel by Adam Stewart

Untitled by Madeline Camp

Ziggy Star Duck by Craig Swan

Spot by Madeline Jackson

Dream Quilt by Jamie Lim

Glow in the Duck by Chase Spivey

Liberty Bill Duck by Evan Davenport

TJ Duck by Aimee Rook

Untitled by Jae Won Jung

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GALLERY:

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and becomes permanent to the surface,” she said. Deringer’s MFA is from Arizona State University and the extraordinary Southwestern vistas worked their magic on her. “Immense sky and space clarifies and changes how you look at things,” she said. Understand however that her art is not Arizona Highways illustrations. The Softer Storm is about tumultuous weather and natural phenomena in our minds. The pieces are more psychic landscapes than rolling hills and breathtaking views. “It’s about the intensity that’s not immediately apparent below the surface, such as what’s happening underneath in a seemingly

still body of water,” Deringer said. Deringer and Javaheri have personal flight line plans together in the coming year that include relocating from Norman to Brooklyn, NY. “Right after, I’m going to Tehran for the first time in 10 years,” he said. “Some part of me feels like I’ll be going back as a stranger.” J a v a heri will be mounting a large exhibition of his work at Tehran’s prestigious Etemad Gallery. From their website: “The gallery is committed to raising

the profile of Iranian contemporary art by featuring emerging and established artists.” Deringer will accompany Javaheri to Tehran and on their return both artists will enter a residency at the Vermont Studio Center.

6 p.m. Ahimsa Yoga & Beads (219 W. Main St.) is holding a Candlelight Yoga & Mediation at 6 p.m. and giving away one month of yoga, along with a food truck located out front.

6 p.m. Firehouse Art Center, 444 S. Flood,hosts an exhibition of work done in the children’s art classes (ages 5-13) over the summer break. Meet the lil’ artists behind the whimsical, colorful art pieces.

Plan your perfect Art Walk with us. Find a complete list of events at 2ndfridaynorman.com.

6:30 p.m.

6 p.m.

The Social Club, 209 E. Main St., is alive with new work by featured artist and illustrator Chris Castro and tasty treats and beverages.

STASH, 412 E. Main St., features photographer Bethany Young and her wood print images of the Oklahoma landscape. They’ll have Big Truck Tacos and The Loaded Bowl out front in their food truck lot.

7 p.m. Scissortail School of Art, 123 E. Main St., is having a student art show, with Norman’s finest little artists selling their handmade art and crafts. They will also have super hero capes for sale, the proceeds from which go towards scholarships

7:15 p.m. Ball and Morse, 111 N. Peters Ave., is featuring the work of “upside-down artist” Dana Helms, along with a demonstration by the artist. Refreshments and appetizers will be provided.

7:15 p.m. The Studios at 420 Main, 420 E. Main St., are featuring the paintings of guest artist Deniz Fulya Aktas. Their second Music at the Mural concert will be showcasing local musician Tanner Miller. Upstairs residents have new work to see, as well. 8.8.14

7:30 p.m. Guestroom Records, 125 E. Main St., presents Norman post-rock outfit Tumbling Nebulae, starting at 7:30 p.m.

8:30 p.m.

8 p.m.

The Depot, 200 S. Jones Ave., ushers out This Is Our Oklahoma Land, a solo exhibition of photography by Kim Baker celebrating Oklahoma landscapes, with a closing reception and music by Mark McClellan & Friends.

Bigfoot Creative, 315 E. Main St., will be featuring a variety of works by Norman artists.

9 p.m. Bluebonnet Bar, 321 E. Main St., presents Kierston White’s “Don’t Write Love Songs” album release party at 10 p.m. She’ll be joined by Eliza Bee and The Bluebird Specials.

9 p.m. Opolis, 113 N. Crawford Ave., invites you up to take a crack at your favorite song with Tone Def Parade Karaoke. Doors open at 8 p.m. and cover is free.

Picnic in the park Peanut Buttter and Jelly Jam serves up fun afternoon for homeless By Jessica Bruha

Live music had children and adults swaying in the warm mid-morning breeze Saturday at Andrews Park for a unique event to help the Norman community’s homeless population featuring a popular sandwich and local band. Norman couple Mitch and Kris Newlin came up with the idea of the Peanut Butter and Jelly 24 Jam during what they call a “silly conversation,” but after it kept resurfacing they knew they had to see it through. “A few years ago we just thought, ‘What would be a truly awesome way to show love in our community for people who are struggling?,’” Kris said. Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches were handed out at the picnic-style event, as well as other foods, while the Sons of Thunder provided musical entertainment. 8.8.14 Newlin said Food and Shelter typically serves food from 10 a.m. to noon every day, but the couple told the organization they would take over for the day. The event served approximately 100 people, which is close to what the shelter serves every day. The Sons of Thunder got involved after Mitch asked lead guitarist James Hoelscher and fellow Wildwood Community Church member if they would play for the event. “They said, ‘Yes, we would gladly do it,’” Hoelscher said. “It helps people. It helps those in need. People who need a hand up or assistance or a boost.” The local band, which has been together for seven years, typically plays at about five charitytype events per year entertaining the community with a variety of classic rock cover songs. Other band members include Dave Moore on vocals and guitar, Fred Goff on vocals and bass guitar and Steve Saak on drums. John Arnold was on hand to run sound.

Jay Chilton / NTown Leon Butler, right, attends Peanut Butter and Jelly Jam at Andrews Park in Norman.

The Newlins organized the event with support from their congregation at Wildwood, as well as a long list of local sponsors ranging from numerous churches to small businesses and big corporations. “There were several churches that work with the homeless communities anyway so they were very generous with their donations and their time,” Kris said. “Then one day I just walked along Main Street in Norman and just popped into stores in restaurants because I thought this is sort of a central location for a lot of our homeless community. So I wanted to give them the opportunity to reach out to people they probably see on a regular basis.”

Kris said even their hair dresser from Behind the Scene Salon was helping out, telling all of her clients about the event. Donations were collected from the salon several times. “It really has been a fun collaboration,” she said. “It’s just wonderful to watch the community come together. Just make this happen.” Fundraising efforts exceeded their expectations. After covering the cost of the event, they were able to donate money to two local nonprofits who help the homeless community. “We went so beyond what we asked for that we’re able to give both Mission Norman and See PICNIC, Page 30

25 Kyle Phillips / NTown

successful, Republic Bank and Trust of Norman plans on making the fundraising event said. a tradition with a different Movie attendees will not movie each year. only help give back, but “The bank has been serving also feel as if they’ve been as a pacesetter for nearly 20 whisked down the yellow years. We know United Way brick road with an interactive program that will prompt works to provide services audiences to keep the energy there is a real need for in the community,” Lawson said. high and wands at the ready. “Helping and giving back is “The program will encouringrained into who we are age children to for instance “boo” when the Wicked Witch and what we believe in.” The event will feature two appears onscreen or wave show times at 2 p.m. and their wands when they see Glenda the Good Witch,” Law- 7 p.m. The matinee showing will cost $4 for children son said. Wands will be available for and $7 for adults while the evening showing will be $5 purchase, as will traditional for children and $9 for adults. concessions, all of which will Tickets are available for purgo to the United Way of Norchase from any of Republic man. Attendees are encouraged to dress as their favorite Bank and Trust’s six locations or online at rbt.com/moviecharacter and will have the day. opportunity to take their For more information about picture with Dorothy or the Movie Day for United Way, Wicked Witch. If this year’s visit rbt.com/movie-day. movie showing proves to be

OZ:

The wonderful cast of Oz Dorothy: Played by Judy Garland who grew-up in a vaudeville family. Garland is well-known for numerous movies such as “Easter Parade” and “Meet Me in St. Louis” and her warm, energetic voice but those sparkling ruby shoes are what shot her to fame and made her a household name. Scarecrow: The first character to befriend Dorothy, actor Ray Bolger played the lovable Scarecrow. Bolger grew up in Vaudeville, like Garland, and for his role in “Where’s Charley?” went on to win a Tony Award in 1949 for Best Actor in a Musical. Tin Man: Present movie

goers probably wouldn’t recognize Jack Haley without his aluminum powder makeup, as he is best known for his role as the Tin Man. Haley snagged the part after the original actor slated for the role, Buddy Ebsen, had an allergic reaction to the “aluminum.” Cowardly Lion: Teaching movie-lovers that courage can mean helping your friends even when you’re afraid, the Cowardly Lion is one of the true heroes of the film. Bert Lahr perfected the character’s skittish behavior, purrr-fect accent and big heart. Lahr went on to win a Tony Award in 1964 for Best Actor in a Musical

for his role in “Foxy.” Wicked Witch: This witch’s cackle is enough 8.8.14 to make any child run and hide under the bed. Played by Margaret Hamilton, this legendary role is still known as one of the best onscreen villains. Before acting, Hamilton was a teacher. She went on to star in over 65 films. Where: Sooner Theatre, 101 E. Main St. When: Saturday, Aug. 23 Price: 2 p.m., $4 children; $7 adults 7 p.m., $5 children; $9 adults For purchase at any Republic Banking Center location or rb.com/movieday

CAL

See our detailed calendar online at normantranscript.com for a complete guide of this week’s events.

Midsummer Nights’ Fair

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The Midsummer Nights’ Fair is one of the largest art fairs in Norman, taking place in the evening, with a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.The Firehouse Art Center takes this opportunity to showcase regional artists, share its mission to provide quality art

experiences and demonstrate the passion completes the atmosphere of the festival, for the visual arts to the community.This which runs from 6 to 11 p.m. on Aug. 22 juried arts festival features 30 unique, and 23 at Lions Park in Norman. high-quality artist booths that offer pottery, jewelry, glass, sculpture, woodworking and more. Live music from local bands

4th Annual “Battles” of the Burger & Pie

Live at Riverwind Casino

In one of the most delightful Center.Tickets range from $35-68. musicals ever written, follow For more information, visit the romances of an oh-solyrictheatreokc.com. entertaining weekend jaunt in the countryside, featuring the classic song “Send in the Clowns.” The show runs from Aug. 5-9 at the Oklahoma City Civic

Calling all masters of the grill! It’s time for the 4th Annual Battle of the Burger (and 1st Annual Pie Contest) in Norman! Put your burger where your mouth is to help a great cause. By participating, you will have your burger reviewed by a panel of local celebrities and officials

The 90s sensation Live is back in Oklahoma with a big bag of recognizeable hits for nostalgic fans and new 90s historians just getting their feet wet in the world of alternative rock roots.The band famous for hit songs like “Lightning Crashes” and “I alone” will

Lyric Theatre presents “A Little Night Music”

Sixth Annual Tee Party OU School of Art & Art History (FJC)The OU School of Art & Art History plans to kick off the academic year, once again, with its Sixth Annual Tee Party from 5 to 7:30 p.m., Aug. 22. Event-goers can look forward to free printmaking demonstrations and a chance to

who’ll award the best burger for each category. New this year is the 1st Annual Pie Contest. The event will be Aug. 16, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Crest Fresh Market, 2550 Mt. Williams Drive in Norman.

bring home a piece of original artwork by an OU School of Art & Art History student or faculty member. Remember to bring a blank t-shirt, pillowcase, apron, or tote bag to be printed.This a free, come-and-go event

Last Tuesday Free Art Fair play apron. Professional artists and crafters will demonstrate their methods. In addition, there will be bouncy houses, live music and food trucks, and of course the Norman Farm Market – now in its 35th Season. It is from 4 to 8 p.m., Aug. 26 at the Cleveland County Fairgrounds.

Peter Krasinski will provide For ticket information live accompaniment for Buster contact the Fine Arts box office Keaton’s silent film “The at 405-325-4101. Cameraman” on the Möller Opus 5819 organ. The show is at 8 p.m., Aug. 22 in Paul F. Sharp Hall, inside Catlett Music Center on the OU campus.

Hungry Planet: What the World Eats Gain a global perspective on the food and the environment through spectacular photos from the award-winning book by Peter Menzel and Faith D’Alusio. Visitors will meet ten families from around the world photographed in their kitchens

perform at 8 p.m. , Aug. 16, at Riverwind Casino. Tickets are $50 for platinum; $40 for VIP and $30 for premium. For more information, visit riverwindcasino.com

American Organ Institute silent film

The “Last Tuesday” Free Art Fair will take place on the last Tuesday of every month in conjunction with the Norman Farm Market.The event will include children’s activities, with foil art and clay and by painting and sculpting, help build a dinosaur diorama and make a

Summer Breeze Concert Series: Handsome Devils Norman band the Handsome Devils blends a love of folk, rock, blues, R&B and jazz into a wholly Americana sound. Beginning as a trio of Derek Paul and rhythm section twins Derek and Devon Carothers, they hit the ground running and quickly garnered a

loyal following by way of honest, catchy tunes and fun live shows. The show is from 7:30 to 9 p.m., Aug. 24 at Lions Park in Norman. For more information visit pasnorman.org.

with one week’s worth of food. They will discover surprising similarities and differences in how each family produces, shops for and prepares their food.The exhibition runs through Aug. 31at the Sam Noble Museum of Natural History.

Art After Noon

Get acquainted with Director of Education, will landscape paintings from the present the talks. museum’s permanent collection in these 30-minute discussions, Tuesdays at 12:30 p.m at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art. Guests are invited to bring a lunch. Dessert and drinks will be provided. Susan Baley, FJJMA

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CAUGHT on camera

The night life of Norman, from Campus Corner to Main Street and more ... Photos by Nick Powers Chase Schwabe, Ayram Graham and Gerritt Graham shoot some pool at Opieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on Lindsey Street.

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Zachary Carrel and Isaac Swartz share a laugh on the patio at Blackbird Gastropub on University Boulevard.

Nicole Rodriguez and Nathan Rankin share some chips and salsa at The Library on Boyd Street.

27 Laura Combs, Taylor Arceneaux and Laura Combs unwind at O’Connell’s Pub on Asp Ave.

Above: Donnie Parenzan and Justin Genson strike a pose at Logie’s on Asp Ave. Below: R.P.M. performs at Tres Cantina on Main Street.

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Kayla Yates and Katelyn Griﬃth take it easy at O’Connell’s Pub on Asp Avenue.

Michelle Stephenson, Garret Haviland and Brooke Ballard goof oﬀ at Das Boot Camp on Main Street.

MOVIES: result is a documentary that oftentimes feels more like a Hollywood thriller rather than a smartly edited compilation of historical footage. “Senna” is a study in obsession and competition, as well as the sometimes-inevitable tragedy that accompanies those elements. It possesses nary a minute that is anything less than compelling. Even if -- like me -- you could care less about the subject matter on the surface, “Senna” is an absolute must-see documentary that is sure to engage any viewer. “Senna” is rated PG-13 for some strong language and disturbing images. 30

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“Right at Your Door” (2006) It starts off like any ordinary day. Brad wakes up, makes coffee, and sees his wife Lexi off to work. However, any shred of normalcy is lost

PICNIC: Food and Shelter for Friends $800 checks,” she said. “So that was a pretty cool thing.” Aside from offering food and musical entertainment, the event also provided an opportunity for the homeless community to pick out some clothes, shoes, backpacks, toiletries and even some books if they wanted. “We wanted to reach out in as many ways as we could. We wanted it to be a really fun atmosphere, like a picnic, and we also wanted to meet some of the basic needs that they’re trying to get met every day,” she said. “We just kind of wanted to be

when a series of dirty bombs are set off across Los Angeles, spreading a cloud of toxic chemicals through the city. Brad sets off on a desperate journey to save his wife -- and his own life -- as LA descends into madness. Such is the setup for “Right at Your Door,” an independent film that made a huge buzz at the 2006 Sundance Film Festival. The distribution rights to writer/director Chris Gorak’s debut were acquired by Lion’s Gate for nearly $3 million, but the film was basically never heard from again. Now available on Netflix, the post-apocalyptic thriller that was produced on a microbudget still delivers the suspense in spades. Information is dispersed over the radio; Brad and Lexi just moved into their house and don’t yet have cable or internet installed. This gives “Right at Your Door” a refreshing old-school vibe, hearkening back to the paranoia of the popular suspenseful radio plays of the ‘40s and ‘50s. As the toxic cloud spreads, Alvaro, the neighbor’s handyman, joins Brad and convinces him to seal off

the house. Unable to reach Lexi by phone, and unable to leave the house, Brad and Alvaro try to ride out the disaster. Lexi’s sudden return home complicates matters considerably for all three characters, as Brad and Alvaro decide to keep Lexi quarantined, with tensions rising and answers remaining sparse. The focus throughout is on the human drama, particularly that of Brad and Lexi. The key to any successful thriller is to craft intriguing characters, then place them into a perilous situation. The layered characters in “Right at Your Door” are flawed, irrational, compassionate -- in a word, they simply seem real. It’s easy to picture Brad and Lexi as the couple that lives down the block, which makes their situation all the more compelling for the viewer. There are many unexpected elements to “Right at Your Door.” From the very beginning of the film, Brad and Lexi’s nontraditional gender roles are clearly illustrated. She is the breadwinner, the high-powered professional. He is the homemaker, a musician whose band doesn’t

seem to actually rehearse that much, but he does take care of the necessary household chores. This dichotomy makes their role reversal upon her return to the house particularly engaging. The film also touches on other serious social issues, such as immigration and the public fear of terrorism, without getting too heavyhanded. “Right at Your Door” is far from a perfect film; even at a brisk 96 minutes, it feels about ten minutes too long. Additionally, while I enjoyed the simple irony of the ending, I could understand if a viewer was left wanting more. All told, “Right at Your Door” is a rather unique, claustrophobic take on the disaster film, and one that deserved far more attention than it ultimately received. “Right at Your Door” is rated R for pervasive language and some disturbing violent content.

creative in our approach to hit as many areas of need as we can.” While the event definitely helped serve basic needs, it meant more than just a meal for some. “For me I volunteer over at Food and Shelter, but over here you get the community aspect of it. Just getting to hang out more, talk to these other guys that we see all the time and get to know them better, build the relationship,” said Joe Sober, Food and Shelter volunteer. Sober said the individuals are always able to get food from the shelter, but they don’t always get clothes, hygiene kits and other items that were available for them

at the event. “A lot of them just like to come out and feel like they’re part of something too. It’s not just for food, or for anything, they’re just here to enjoy the event, listen to music,” he said. Even kids had a blast at the event, especially at the face-painting station, book zone and the splash pad at Andrews Park. Several little ones helping out by passing out food or drinks even had fun. “This is so much fun and we get to help people,” one of the children said. Kris said they hope Peanut Butter and Jelly Jam becomes an annual event.

“This year we just took a leap of faith that people would come together and make it happen because we really wanted it to be for the community, from the community,” she said. The community showed their support and many from the homeless community replied with words of thanks for the food, fun and basic needs it was able to provide them.