March/April 2010 Issue

Ezine.com

ON THE TOWN

March/April March April 2010

Jason Jason Dady Dady Felix Felix Padr贸n Padr贸n Valero Valero Texas Texas Open Open Luminaria: Luminaria: Arts Arts Night Night Fiesta庐 Fiesta庐 San San Antonio Antonio Marguerite Marguerite McCormick McCormick Contemporary Contemporary Art Art Month Month Plus Plus 17 17 Additional Additional Articles Articles

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Features March-April Performing Arts Highlights

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Jason Dady: Putting the Pieces Together

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Singing The Praises of Marguerite McCormick

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Pinch Pennies and Dine Well: Tasty Bar Savings

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SOLI: San Antonio’s Premier New Music Ensemble

Felix Padron: The Business of Art

Allegro Stage Company

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March-April 2010 Events Calendar

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Fiesta® San Antonio 2010

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Tourney Town At NCAA Women’s Final Four Front Cover Photo: © Alexander Hoffman | Dreamstime.com Performing Arts Cover Photo: Peter Coombs Events Calendar Cover Photo: © Henrique Araujo | Dreamstime.com

Unapologetically Texan: Valero Texas Open

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Luminaria: Arts Night in San Antonio

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New World Wine & Food Festival Finds The Right Recipe For Change

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Visual Arts Cover Photo: Greg Harrison

29th Annual Tejano Conjunto Festival

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Culinary Arts Cover Photo: © Viktor Lugovskoy | Big Stock Photo

Contemporary Art Month: San Antonio’s Art and Culture Scene Marches into Spring

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Tim Gette: Ushering in a New Era at the Institute of Texan Cultures

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Festivals & Celebrations Cover Photo: Greg Harrison

Literary Arts Cover Photo: © Dana Rothstein | Big Stock Photo Eclectics Cover Photo: Greg Harrison

Lair Creative, LLC would not knowingly publish misleading or erroneous information in editorial content or in any adv appear under any circumstances. Additionally, content in this electronic magazine does not necessarily reflect the view mances and exhibits, it is recommended that all times and dates of such events be confirmed by the reader prior to at

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Contributors

Departments More Performing Arts: Voci di Sorelle’s Season Showcases Works by Female Composers

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Portfolio: The Art of Bill Thompson

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More Visual Arts: Art in the Garden – Albert Paley Sculpture Show at SA Botanical Garden

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More Culinary Arts: Olives Ole™ – The International Olive Festival of Texas™

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Book Talk: Herbert Keyser – Author, Physician, and Lecturer/Performer

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More Literary Arts: Poetry In Motion To Be Displayed on VIA Busses

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Artistic Destination: A Journey to Boerne

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Picture This: Fiesta® San Antonio Images By John Alonzo

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Jon Alonzo Leigh Baldwin James Benavides Chuck Blische Anne Keever Cannon Julie Catalano John Clare Cynthia Clark Kemp Davis Thomas Duhon Chris Dunn Corene Dyer Dana Fossett Sharon Garcia Greg Harrison, staff photographer June Hayes

Michele Krier Mikel Allen graphic designer Therese McDevitt Christian Lair Kay Lair Claudia Maceo-Sharp Marlo Mason-Marie Kyla McGlynn Susan A. Merkner, copy editor Tony Piazzi Juan Tejeda Sara Selango Shannon Huntington Standley Sue Talford Jasmina Wellinghoff

On The Town Ezine.com is published by Lair Creative, LLC 14122 Red Maple San Antonio, Texas 78247 210-771-8486 210-490-7950 (fax)

vertisement in On The Town Ezine.com, nor does it assume responsibility if this type of editorial or advertising should ws or opinions of the management of Lair Creative, LLC. Since On The Town Ezine.com features information on perforttendance. The publisher assumes no responsibility for changes in times, dates, venues, exhibitions or performances.

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Performing Arts 10-34

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March-April Perform Springtime Promises Entertaining

By Sara Selango

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ming Arts Highlights Moments for Us All!

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hings keep getting better and better in the local performing arts arena. The selection of Sebastian Lang-Lessing as the new music director of the San Antonio Symphony heads the list of recent highlights.

Maestro Lang-Lessing comes to San Antonio with global credentials having conducted both symphony and opera orchestras around the world. His resume is extremely impressive, and praise for his work is extensive. He will raise the baton to officially open the 2010-11 season in October and continue in the music director position through the 2013-14 season (and hopefully much longer). His initial four-year contract coincides with the time period leading up to the scheduled opening of the Bexar Country Performing Arts Center in September 2013. Welcome to Maestro Lang-Lessing and his wife, Britta Funck, our newest San Antonians.

bassoonist Sharon Kuster takes center stage March 2627 in a performance titled Mozart and Der Rosenkavalier, conducted by Julian Kuerti. The following week, Andrew Grams conducts an evening of The Mighty Organ featuring David Heller on April 2-3. On a final classical note, symphony concertmaster Ertan Torgul goes solo in Four Seasons of Buenos Aires led by conductor Josep Caballe-Domenech on April 31 and May 1. All of these concerts take place at the Majestic Theatre. Pops shows during this two-month period include Classical Mystery Tour - A Tribute to the Beatles and Fiesta Pops – The Pride of San Antonio March 19-20 at Municipal Auditorium and April 16-17 at the Majestic, respectively.

For classical music aficionados, let it be known that there are many more performances in March and April by groups such as SOLI, Camerata San Antonio, Mid Texas Symphony, Musical Offerings, Symphony of the Hills and Voci di Sorelle, to name a few. The best way to check on these is to consult the events calendar in While on the subject of the symphony, March and April this online magazine for concert dates and times. hold great promise of wonderful classical performances.

Pianist Andrew Armstrong is featured along with Still more classical music comes to us from presenters conductor Gregory Vajda in a program called Mozart’s such as Musical Bridges Around the World, San Prague March 12-13. In the latter part of the month, Antonio Chamber Music Society, Carver Community

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Cultural Center and Tuesday Musical Club. To get things started, Musical Bridges offers two Musical Evenings at San Fernando Cathedral March 7 and April 4. Then, Jupiter String Quartet, with violist Roger Tapping, is featured in a San Antonio Chamber Music Society presentation March 14 at Temple Beth-El, while Ahn Trio plays the Jo Long Theatre at the Carver March 20. Violinist Judith Ingolfsson and pianist Vladimir Stoupel appear for Tuesday Musical Club in two performances April 13 at Laurel Heights United Methodist Church, and Lee Trio brings the season to an end for the chamber music society with its performance April 25 at Temple Beth-El.

at the Cameo, Curtains at San Pedro Playhouse, Listen to the Music: Celebrating the Sounds of the ’70s at the Harlequin Dinner Theatre, Mauritius at Boerne Community Theatre and Rent at the Sheldon Vexler.

This is just a sampling. Go to the San Antonio Theatre Coalition Web site for information about all current and upcoming performances. It’s www.satheatre.com.

Other shows of note in the March-April time period include the legendary Ray Price at Gruene Hall March 5, Brandi Carlile at John T. Floore Country Store March 8, George Thorogood and the Destroyers at the Majestic on the ninth day of March, and Aaron Lewis of Staind at the same theater March 14. Continuing Switching to live theater, South Pacific, one of my all- on, Destino is featured at Brauntex Performing Arts time favorites, is at the Majestic March 2-7. Part of the Theatre in New Braunfels March 27, and Marvin Broadway Across America series, South Pacific will Hamlisch performs two shows at the Kathleen C. be followed by 101 Dalmations at the big theater on Callioux Theater for Kerrville Performing Arts Society Houston Street in early May. Another touring show March 28. On the same day, Jerry Jeff Walker takes spends an evening in the city March 5: Porgy and Bess the microphone at Gruene Hall. at Municipal Auditorium.

Chicago comes to town April 9 for a one-nighter at Local theater offerings are plentiful during the spring the Majestic. That very evening, Los Lonely Boys months. Some not to miss include Peter Pan at the bring their acoustic show to Gruene Hall. Following Woodlawn, Dearly Departed followed by Social Security just over a week later is an appearance by jazz bassist

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Esperanza Spalding at the Carver April 17. Meanwhile, back up the road, P.D.Q. Bach and Peter Schickele: The Jekyll and Hyde Tour promises laughs for all who attend performances April 17-18 at the Kathleen C. Cailloux Theater. This is also a presentation of Kerrville Performing Arts Society. Last on the calendar is the group Three Men and a Maestro at Brauntex Performing Arts Theatre April 24.

better in the local performing arts arena? Well, they do, they do. Get some tickets and go!

The dance genre is well represented in March and April starting with Ballet Conservatory of Texas performances of Waking From Recklessness at the Jo Long Theatre at Carver Community Cultural Center March 6-7. Next up is Coppelia, a presentation of Ballet San Antonio at the Majestic March 20-21.

Also on the boards is The Art of Dance April 8-10 at Municipal Auditorium.

Pages 10-11 Keala Settle as Bloody Mary with the seebees of South Pacific Photo by Peter Coombs

A quick look into the first week of May gives an idea of what we have to look forward to after all is said and done in March and April. Celtic Women and Dayton Contemporary Dance Company lead the way along with the aforementioned 101 Dalmations.

Sebastian Lang-Lessing Photo by Alastair Bett

Did I mention that things keep getting better and

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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Photo Credits:

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Sara Gettelfinger as Cruella De Vil in 101 Dalmations: The Musical Photo © 2009 by Joan Marcus

Rod Gilfry as Emile de Becque Carmen Cusack as Nellie Forbush in South Pacific Photo by Peter Coombs Page 13 (Left to Right) Brandi Carlile Photo by Jeremy Cowart Ertan Torgul Courtesy San Antonio Symphony Andrew Armstrong Courtesy andrewarmstrong.com

Jupiter String Quartet Courtesy artsmg.com Julian Kuerti Photo by Matti Hillig Page 15 (Left to Right) Coppelia Courtesy Ballet San Antonio Celtic Women Courtesy Majestic Theatre Esperanza Spalding Courtesy Carver Community Cultural Center

Page 14 (Left to Right) 101 Dalmations: The Musical Photo Š 2009 by Joan Marcus

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Singing the Praises of Marguerite McCormick: Director Leads the Children’s Chorus of San Antonio into its 27th Season

By Sharon Garcia Photography Cynthia Clark and Hector Pacheco 16 On The Town | March-April 2010

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rom an early age, Marguerite McCormick was an avid music lover and performer, but she never imagined how that passion for music would lead to her true calling.

The Present by UTSA professor Dr. James Balentine, and Then, Now, and Forever, commissioned in memory of Marguerite’s late husband and chorus tour director Robert E. “Bob” McCormick, a long-time and active supporter of the group.

The San Antonio native was living in St. Louis with her family, singing in the city’s symphony chorus, when The Children’s Chorus has truly been a labor of love for the group’s director brought in a children’s choir from McCormick, who, for many years, served as director of Chicago to perform with them. the group while working full-time as a music teacher for North East Independent School District and raising “They got onstage, and the sound was absolutely three boys. While teaching for NEISD, she was selected mesmerizing – I fell in love with the whole genre,” as “Teacher of the Year” in 1990 and was recognized by recalls McCormick, who had worked as an elementary the Music Educators National Conference. Looking back school music teacher after majoring in piano in college. at her dual careers, she admits that “it was challenging She already enjoyed her work with children in school at times, but I always loved the work I was doing, and choirs, but this was something different – a whole new my family was very supportive.” level of possibilities.

Never one to rest on the laurels of past successes, Her family returned to San Antonio after 17 years away, McCormick has expanded the outreach and education and McCormick furthered her studies by receiving a efforts of the Children’s Chorus to include programs master of music degree at the University of Texas at such as Music Together, a national curriculum featuring San Antonio. Upon completing her studies in 1983, she music and movement for infants, toddlers and children approached the director of choral activities at UTSA, under 6; and PROJECT: Sing!, currently in the Harlandale Dr. John Silantien, with the idea of forming a children’s School District and at Our Lady of the Lake University, chorus in San Antonio. That fall, the UTSA Children’s which provides area children who may not have access Chorus was launched. McCormick directed its first to traditional music programs the opportunity to “sing, performance in December 1983. For the next 10 years, learn, share and excel – right in their own neighborhood.” the chorus continued to grow and flourish under the auspices of the UTSA Department of Music. In 1993, the In addition to her work with the Children’s Chorus, group became the Children’s Chorus of San Antonio.

McCormick is a member of the San Antonio Women’s Hall of Fame and has served as the children’s choirs Today, the group is thriving, with more than 300 repertoire and standards chair for the American Choral talented young artists, ages 7-18, in five choral groups. Directors Association for the Southwestern states.

This success is to due McCormick’s tireless efforts, her genuine love of children, and her desire to “open up the She openly beams when talking about former chorus world of music to them.” members. She estimates that more than 1,500 children have passed through her doors as a member of the The group is recognized both nationally and Children’s Chorus since its inception. Whether they’ve internationally, having performed in New York’s gone on to pursue a career in music or have found revered Carnegie Hall and equally prestigious venues success in another arena, her pride is evident. She in Denmark, Italy and the United Kingdom. The Child- believes that through rehearsal, performance and ren’s Chorus also performs regularly with the San working as a team, members “build a new level of selfAntonio Symphony and its Mastersingers. They have confidence and discipline, and learn skills that can help shared the stage with the Texas Bach Choir, performed them later in life.” at the San Antonio Early Music Festival and have even made appearances on NBC-TV’s Today Show and NPR’s When asked about the hundreds of children whose lives Performance Today. she has impacted and inspired, she modestly deflects praise and talks instead about the joy and satisfaction Always searching for new opportunities, McCormick has they have brought to her life. “I simply love working commissioned several works for the Children’s Chorus with children – they are capable of absolutely amazing that have been premiered in San Antonio, including artistry and so open to new ideas and concepts,” March-April 2010 | On The Town 17

McCormick says. “But it’s up to the conductor to figure out how to tap into that creativity and nurture it into something beautiful.”

The Children’s Chorus has indeed found the “conductor” who can make that happen. McCormick’s true calling continues to be a reward for audiences and performers alike.

THE CHILDREN’S CHORUS OF SAN ANTONIO UPCOMING PERFORMANCES: March 7 A Baroque Project 7 p.m., Magik Theatre, 420 S. Alamo St. Free CCSA’s Chamber Choir and Youth Chorale with KenDavid Masur conducting, collaborate with members of the San Antonio Symphony and student musicians.

Presented by the Redeemer Fine Arts Series, the concert features the music of J.S. Bach, G.F. Handel and G.P. Telemann.

April 8 Scottish Ceilidh 7 p.m., Radius Gallery, 106 Auditorium Circle Free Ceilidh (Kay-lay) derives from the Gaelic, meaning “a visit.” It also can denote a house party, concert or, in the case of the Children’s Chorus, an informal evening filled with Scottish country dancing and singing.

April 16 Bluebonnet Concert 7 p.m., Radius Gallery, 106 Auditorium Circle Free The CCSA Junior Chorus and Choristers will present their annual invitation to spring in this unique, hip downtown venue. Revel in the South Texas springtime and kick off Fiesta week with this celebration of the season.

May 2 Spring Song 3 p.m., Alamo Heights United Methodist Church, 825 E. Basse Road $8 | $12 | $16 Members of all five CCSA choirs will perform along with special guest artists in this season finale. Program highlights include a preview of their upcoming tour to Washington, D.C., in June. Join CCSA as they celebrate the bright future of their young artists.

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Kerrville Performing Arts FP AD

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(L-R) Key, David 2010 Mollenauer, Carolyn True and Ertan Torgul 20 OnStephanie The Town | March-April

SOLI San Antonio’s Premier New Music Ensemble

By John Clare Photography by Kemp Davis

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t is a Monday morning and SOLI Chamber Ensem- composers present, including Putman, his teacher ble -- consisting of musicians Carolyn True, David Timothy Kramer and the up-and-coming Diego Vega Mollenauer, Ertan Torgul and Stephanie Key -- are from Bogota, Columbia. rehearsing at Gallery Nord.

Back at rehearsal, John Clare, SOLI’s new executive “Should we not slow down there as much?” Torgul asks director and host at Texas Public Radio, inquires about the group, which is putting the finishing touches on the evening’s pre-concert talk.

American Residency, a concert featuring the music of Aaron Jay Kernis. “We have to take some time,” replies “What order should we go in tonight? I have clips on Key, the artistic director. Meanwhile, Mollenauer and the Superstar Etude and the Trio in Red, but nothing True work out a musical cue for the passage between on the other two.” True says that concert order not only would make sense, but would break up the each other. pre-recorded voice of Aaron Jay Kernis between SOLI Chamber Ensemble has presented concerts of the ensemble and Clare talking about the works. new music – typically living composers, or mostly new Originally Kernis, a Grammy, Pulitzer and Grawemeyer works – for the last 15 years. They are the resident award-winning composer, was to be at the concerts, ensemble at Trinity University, where they also perform as well as doing outreach and master classes for young people and student composers. Unfortunately, at Ruth Taylor Recital Hall, besides area galleries. his wife had an accident which resulted in Kernis not The group has commissioned San Antonio composers being able to come. such as David Heuser, Timothy Kramer and Michael Twomey as well as internationally known composers “We rolled with it. We’ll work with Kernis in the future such as Ned Rorem, Derek Bermel and Robert Xavier and have his interaction with students later this Rodriguez. Coming up this March, SOLI performs spring,” Key says. “We have performed Aaron’s music their first student composition contest winner, over many seasons and plan to tour with his music.”

Isaiah Putman’s Systemic Secrets and Animal Space Stations. In fact, the concert will have all three of the Indeed, Kernis joined the concert talk the following March-April 2010 | On The Town 21

As rehearsal winds down at Gallery Nord, the musicians and Clare confirm when they’ll meet up again for the evening concert and head out to lunch.

SOLI Chamber Ensemble is not just a group which has been recognized by the Aaron Copland Fund for Music, the Argosy Foundation, the Russell Hill Rogers Foundation and the City of San Antonio Office of That’s one of SOLI’s goals, to connect audiences to Cultural Affairs, but four friends who are passionate a composer, so that the performance is not just a about the music they perform, the composers and concert, but an experience. All the composers for their audience. their May concert, dubbed Texas, are from the Lone Star State or currently work here. The list includes SOLI Chamber Ensemble performs March 8 at Gallery University of Texas professor Dan Welcher (who won’t Nord, March 9 at Trinity University’s Ruth Taylor be in attendance for his second string quartet, Harbor Recital Hall, and March 11 at Blue Star Contemporary Music, because of a sabbatical that has landed him in Art Center as part of Contemporary Art Month. southern France), Theron Kirk, George Winters, Karim For more information and tickets, visit www.

Al-Zand and Peter Lieuwen. solichamberensemble.com or call (210) 980-3250. evening at Trinity via Skype internet video service.

Audience members heard from the composer about seeing “a deep red, almost bloodlike” while composing the Trio in Red, and how he experienced seeing a brilliant yellow while composing Musica Celestis, sort of a 21st century Barber Adagio piece.

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Felix Padrón The Business of Art

By Julie Catalano Photography Greg Harrison

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y the time you read this, Felix Padrón will be painting again. At least, that’s what he promises. As director of the Office of Cultural Affairs for the City of San Antonio – and like many artists-turned-administrators – the Cuban-born artist’s long hours have mostly precluded spending time getting back to his artistic roots.

That doesn’t mean he doesn’t channel that creativity into what he calls his vision for San Antonio: “To ensure the creative sector continues to thrive and grow and mature.” That, he says, is contingent upon being at the table when art and business are being discussed.

“Now we’re talking about art in the context of economic development and that it is a viable industry in this community.”

Statistics seem to agree. In his downtown office, surrounded by stacks of reports, agendas and books on his desk, Padrón points to an economic impact study done last year as a follow-up to the one in 2005. The study cites robust growth, with the creative economy generating $3.38 billion in economic activity, supporting 26,744 jobs and $1 billion in wages.

“The city’s investment in the arts is $8 million. Do the math. I think the return is quite significant.”

Padrón adds that “the community understands the value of the arts, especially in economic times like this. Citizens and visitors alike are still looking for that quality of life experience, and I think the arts are a key component to that.”

Not only the community – the city and local businesses continue to get on board. At last year’s Luminaria arts festival (this year on March 13), attendance topped 175,000. Sponsored by the city and the OCA, plus a host of corporations, the success of the event led to an increased investment by the city to the tune of $50,000 – bringing their stake to a quarter of a million dollars and adding to the total budget of around $500,000. “Seeing the support from the private sector really is a measuring tool for us that the community values the arts. And rightly so.”

More than 250 artists will be on hand for this year’s celebration – partnering with Contemporary Art Month (CAM) for the first time – and the downtown footprint will be “smaller and more compact,” Padrón says, “because we found that a lot of people were not seeing the entire experience.” With boundaries of Market and Durango streets, including the convention center, HemisFair and part of La Villita, “people can see everything in a more accessible format.”

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Partnerships are important to local and national growth in the arts, Padrón says, crediting the San Antonio Convention and Visitors Bureau (visitsanantonio.com) as one of OCA’s most significant working relationships. “They really understand the importance of arts and culture in selling San Antonio as a top cultural destination.”

At least one major organization has taken notice: The Americans for the Arts (artsusa.org) annual convention will be here in 2012. “This is a very, very important conference where the arts and cultural leadership discusses the state of the union in the context of the arts.” San Antonio beat out Miami, Atlanta and Chicago, among others.

“We had been on their radar screen for quite some time,” Padrón says. “I think the city is being recognized as doing some creative, out-of-the-box strategies to improve the local arts environment.”

Padrón admits there is still much to be done, and selling the arts in San Antonio will always have its own unique set of challenges.

“We need to do a better job, and we’re working toward that, with more outreach, more marketing and making sure the school systems embrace arts education.” To that end, the OCA has hired a full-time person dedicated to arts education initiatives at a citywide level.

Beyond the city limits – way beyond – Padrón says he finds his role as director taking on a more international flavor. In addition to partnering with the Instituto Cultural de Mexico at HemisFair Park commemorating Mexico 2010 – celebrating Mexico’s 1810 independence from Spain and its 1910 revolution – a visit to sister city Kaohsiung in Taiwan may be in the works, plus possible participation in Shanghai’s World’s Fair this year.

Closer to home, Padrón, 49, enjoys trips to Marfa, Texas, to “relax, see great art, enjoy the outdoors,” and spend quality time with wife Grace, a local architect. And always – the lure of the studio beckons to the New York School of Visual Arts graduate and former freelancer for the New Yorker, The New York Times and others. “I’m about to start,” he avers. “I’m getting my studio ready.”

What will he paint? “I’m not sure, but I’ll be painting.”

And we’ll be watching.

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For more information, Office of Cultural Affairs, City of San Antonio, www.sahearts.com.

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Allegro Stage Company Dedicated to the presentation of classic American musicals and the development of original works

By Michele Krier Photography Greg Harrison

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he last thing on Tom Masinter’s mind was starting a theater company. But his interest and drive to produce classic American musicals led to Masinter, a renowned musician from New Orleans, and San Antonio theater director Tim Hedgepeth launching the Allegro Stage Company, which has certainly fired up the theater scene with their first stunning performance of Fire on the Bayou produced at the Woodlawn Theatre.

official 501(c) (3) and held a series of fund raisers to get the show on the road.

“We looked around at theaters and found that the Woodlawn was very interested in being our co-producer.

They provide the physical location and we provide the show,” says Masinter. “We really had an all-star cast with some of the best players in San Antonio who wanted to work with us. The cast for Bayou numbered more than “Tim and I just wanted to do musicals that really aren’t two dozen performers.” done anymore,” Masinter says. “We couldn’t find anyone else to produce the shows, so we had to do it ourselves.” Hedgepeth underscores Masinter’s appraisal. “We have wonderful designers, choreographers and cast -- I feel “We’ve been doing musical reviews together for three very blessed. We would not do a production if we could years,” Hedgepeth says. “We have a shared interest in not get the best talent in town -- and we’ve got the best classical musicals that were not Broadway hits, but more theater talent in town!” of a niche musical.”

“People were very responsive,” Masinter says, pleased The deux ex machina came in the form of support from that their efforts have found such an extensive and Jonathan Pennington, producer/executive artistic appreciative following. He fielded emails and phone director, and Kurt and Dr. Sherry Wehner at the Woodlawn calls from happy supporters and fans that brought Theatre. The three formed Pennington Productions, several of their friends and family members to see Fire on becoming official business partners a year ago. Kurt runs the Bayou multiple times. And, what is of course music the business side and set design and Jonathan is the to their ears; people are now asking what they can do to help the new theater company hit more high notes. creative guru, with Sherry handling marketing.

Part of the mission statement for Allegro is producing Allegro also needed donations, so they acquired their original musicals.

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“We’re looking for a mid-century American musical from the ‘40s or ‘50s for our next production,” Hedgepeth says.

“One with an excellent musical score, like Cole Porter.”

In addition to starting and running the company, as well as directing shows, the company founders still have their day jobs. Hedgepeth teaches theater appreciation and acting at Northwest Vista College and is an adjunct professor at Trinity where he has come full-circle, actually teaching in the first room where he once took acting classes. Masinter has supported himself and his family for 30 years as a musician. He teaches piano, restores them, and is a music director as well as a performer. “All of it works together,” he says, adding that his father told him you have to be versatile to be a musician. “Mozart’s family did this--they lived upstairs above their shop and repaired musical instruments and gave music lessons.”

“We’ve both been in the business so long, it feels a bit like we’re in school and we want to play the pinball machine so we’re both pulling the flippers together to keep it moving,” laughs Masinter, about their theatrical labor of love.

“This nerve wracking business has been fun!” adds Hedgepeth.

Fire on the Bayou explored the supernatural forces of good and evil through life on the bayou which the troupe cleverly brought to life with realistic sound and transporting the audience to a Cajun dance hall. Masinter led the band through a terrific score that conjured up the voodoo queen herself--Marie Laveau.

Support from theater fans, the theatrical community, and people like Jonathan Pennington and the Wehners, inspires Allegro Stage Company and keeps it focused on its musical mission.

Since Fire on the Bayou will have completed its run just prior to the publishing of this story, Woodlawn partner Dr. Sherry Wehner would like everyone to know that, “Our next production at the Woodlawn is Peter Pan and we have invested in a theatrical flying system to enhance the show. We’re continually improving the theater experience at the Woodlawn because we’re really in it for the long haul, so we’re comfortable making major commitments.”

For more about Allegro Stage Company, go to www. allegrostage.com. Also visit www.woodlawntheatre.com for additional information regarding Peter Pan. 30 On The Town | March-April 2010

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More

PA Performing Arts

Voci di Sorelle’s Season Showcases Works by Female Composers

By Sharon Garcia Photos Corene Dyer Top: Ruth Moreland, artistic director Bottom: Voci di Sorelle a cappella singers

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Blue Star FP Ad

oci di Sorelle — Italian for “Voices of Sisters” — is a group of 12 female a cappella singers renowned for exquisite performances that showcase the power, versatility, and beauty of women’s voices. The ensemble was founded in 2004 by artistic director Ruth Moreland.

The only group of its kind in Texas, Voci’s performances are eclectic, ranging from early music, sacred hymns and traditional folk melodies to modern jazz, world music and classical arrangements. Their sound has been described as “ethereal and transcendental” by concert attendees, with a sound that is “other worldly” and “like angels singing.” Moreland carefully crafts each season’s performance lineup, drawing from a vast and varied repertoire to introduce new works and composers to San Antonio audiences. Concerts may include guest soloists, children’s choirs and instrumentalists on harp, classical guitar, piano, percussion, flute and fiddle.

choirs, in addition to being performed and recorded by the Voci ensemble.

Voci di Sorelle is a project of Benissimo! Music Productions, a nonprofit organization promoting musical excellence and integrity in vocal performance and the mentoring of young female singers.

Voci di Sorelle celebrates its sixth year with the 2009-10 concert season, Music by Women for Women’s Voices.

Upcoming concerts include: TRAVELIN’ SHOES: Songs and Spirituals Sunday, March 7 - 3:00 pm Christ Episcopal Church, 510 Belknap (78212) LOVE AND LIGHT: A Celebration of Women Composers Sunday, May 2 - 3:00 pm St. John’s Lutheran Church, 502 E. Nueva ( 78205)

Moreland is an active composer, arranger and music educator. A number of her compositions have been For complete concert and ticket information, visit www. performed in concert by various musical groups and benissimomusic.org, or call 210-912-9555 32 On The Town | March-April January-February 2010 2010

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Events Calendar 36-48

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March-April 2010 Events Calendar Music Notes San Antonio Rose Live 3/1- 4/30, Fri @ 7:30pm Sat @ 2pm & 7:30pm Sun & Mon @ 7:30pm Aztec Theatre

Chris Young 3/6, Sat @ 7pm (doors open) Cowboys San Antonio

George Thorogood & the Destroyers 3/9, Tue @ 8pm Majestic Theatre

Brandon Rhyder 3/6, Sat @ 9pm Gruene Hall

Zach Walther & the Cronkites County Line Music Series 3/10, Wed @ 6:30pm County Line BBQ, IH-10

Symphony of the Hills: For the Young and Young at Heart 3/4 & 7, Thu @ 7:30pm Sun @ 2:30pm Michelle Adam, flute Dr. Jay Dunnahoo, conductor Kathleen C. Cailloux Theater, Kerrville

Nick Lawrence 3/6, Sat @ 9pm John T. Floore Country Store

Ray Price 3/5, Fri @ 8pm Gruene Hall

Musical Evenings at San Fernando Cathedral Musical Bridges Around The World Presentation 3/7, Sun @ 6:30pm San Fernando Cathedral

Granger Smith 3/5, Fri @ 9pm John T. Floore Country Store Camerata San Antonio: English Accent – Britten, Finzi, Elgar Boerne: 3/5, Fri @ 7:30pm First United Methodist Church San Antonio: 3/7, Sun @ 3pm Travis Park United Methodist Church

Travelin’ Shoes: Songs and Spirituals Voci di Sorelle Presentation 3/7, Sun @ 3pm Christ Episcopal Church

Casting Crowns 3/11, Thu @ 7pm San Antonio Municipal Auditorium Kevin Fowler 3/12, Fri @ 7pm (doors open) Cowboys San Antonio Honeybrowne 3/12, Fri @ 8pm Gruene Hall

Brandi Carlile 3/8, Mon @ 8pm John T. Floore Country Store

Bob Schneider 3/12, Fri @ 9pm John T. Floore Country Store

SOLI Chamber Ensemble: Premiere 3/8-9, Mon @ 7:30pm Gallery Nord Tue @ 7:30pm Ruth Taylor Recital Hall, Trinity University

San Antonio Symphony: Mozart’s Prague 3/12-13, Fri-Sat @ 8pm Gregory Vajda, conductor Andrew Armstrong, piano Majestic Theatre

36 On The Town | March-April 2010

Cross Canadian Ragweed 3/13, Sat @ 9pm John T. Floore Country Store Two Tons of Steel 3/13, Sat @ 9pm Gruene Hall Jupiter String Quartet with Roger Tapping, viola San Antonio Chamber Music Society Presentation 3/14, Sun @ 3:15pm Temple Beth-El The Diamond Image: Neil Diamond Tribute

by Keith Allyn 3/14, Sun @ 2:30pm Josephine Theatre Aaron Lewis of Staind 3/14, Sun @ 8pm Majestic Theatre Emory Quinn County Line Music Series 3/17, Wed @ 6:30pm County Line BBQ, IH-10 Drive-By Truckers 3/17, Wed @ 8pm John T. Floore Country Store Raul Malo 3/18, Thu @ 8pm John T. Floore Country Store

Aaron Watson 3/19, Fri @ 7pm (doors open) Cowboys San Antonio

Texas Renegade County Line Music Series 3/24, Wed @ 6:30pm County Line BBQ, IH-10

Rich O’Toole 3/19, Fri @ 9pm John T. Floore Country Store

Voyage to East Asia Musical Offerings Presentation 3/24, Wed @ 7:30pm Blue Star Contemporary Art Center

San Antonio Symphony Pops: Classical Mystery Tour – A Tribute to the Beatles 3/19-20, Fri-Sat @ 8pm Ken-David Masur, conductor Municipal Auditorium Roger Creager 3/19-20, Fri @ 8pm Sat @ 9pm Gruene Hall Ahn Trio Carver Community Cultural Center Presentation 3/20, Sat @ 8pm Jo Long Theatre @ Carver Community Cultural Center Gary P. Nunn 3/20, Sat @ 9pm John T. Floore Country Store San Antonio Symphony: Aesop’s Fables – Future Stars IV Competition Winner 3/21, Sun @ 2:30pm Ken-David Masur, conductor Laurie Auditorium, Trinity University

Dee Dee Bridgewater 3/26, Fri @ 8pm Laurie Auditorium, Trinity University Reckless Kelly 3/26, Fri @ 8pm 3/27, Sat @ 9pm Gruene Hall Charlie Robison 3/26, Fri @ 9pm John T. Floore Country Store San Antonio Symphony: Mozart and Der Rosenkavalier 3/26-27, Fri-Sat @ 8pm Julian Kuerti, conductor Sharon Kuster, bassoon Majestic Theatre Destino 3/27, Sat @ 7:30pm Brauntex Performing Arts Theatre, New Braunfels Scott Wiggins Band 3/27, Sat @ 9pm John T. Floore Country Store

Marvin Hamlisch Kerrville Performing Arts Society Presentation 3/28, Sun @ 2pm & 7:30pm Kathleen C. Cailloux Theater

Musical Evenings at Fernando Cathedral Musical Bridges Around The World Presentation 4/4, Sun @ 6:30pm San Fernando Cathedral

Mid Texas Symphony: Pops and Popcorn!

3/28, Sun @ 4pm David Mairs, conductor New Braunfels Civic Center

Mike McClure Val Mark Chevrolet Beirgarten Music Series 4/8, Thu @ Time TBD Whitewater Music Amphitheater New Braunfels Camerata San Antonio Viennese Masters Schoenberg, Brahms Fredericksburg, 4/8, Thu @ 7:30pm First Presbyterian Church Boerne: 4/9, Fri @ 7:30pm First United Methodist Church San Antonio: 4/11, Sun @ 3pm Travis Park United Methodist Church

Jerry Jeff Walker: Texas Bash 3/28, Sun @ 7pm Gruene Hall Whiskey Meyers County Line Music Series 3/31, Wed @ 6:30pm County Line BBQ, IH-10

Chicago 4/9, Fri @ 8pm Majestic Theatre

Jack Ingram 4/2, Fri @ 8pm Gruene Hall

Los Lonely Boys 4/9, Fri @ 8pm Gruene Hall

Max Stalling 4/2, Fri @ 9pm John T. Floore Country Store San Antonio Symphony: The Mighty Organ 4/2-3, Fri-Sat @ 8pm Andrew Grams, conductor David Heller, organist San Antonio Symphony Mastersingers – Dr. John Silantien, conductor Majestic Theatre

Stoney LaRue 4/9, Fri @ 9pm John T. Floore Country Store Charlotte Blake Alston Carver Community Cultural Center Presentation 4/10, Sat @ 10am Jo Long Theatre @ Carver Community Cultural Center

March-April May-June 2009 2010 | On The Town 37

Doug Moreland 4/10, Sat @ 9pm John T. Floore Country Store Jazz Meets Classical XVIII Musical Offerings Presentation 4/10, Sat @ 7pm Instituto Cultural de México 4/11, Sun @ 3pm First United Methodist Church Boerne 4/12, Mon @ 7pm San Antonio Museum of Art 4/13 Tue @ 6:30pm Witte Museum Judith Ingolfsson, violin Vladimir Stoupel, piano Tuesday Musical Club Presentation 4/13, Tue @ 2pm & 7:30pm Laurel Heights United Methodist Church Hayes Carll 4/16, Fri @ 9pm John T. Floore Country Store San Antonio Symphony Pops: Fiesta Pops – Pride of San Antonio 4/16-17, Fri-Sat @ 8pm Ken-David Masur, conductor Los Tres Reyes Mariachi Campanas de America Guadalupe Dance Company Majestic Theatre

Esperanza Spalding Carver Community Cultural Center Presentation 4/17, Sat @ 8pm Jo Long Theatre @ Carver Community Cultural Center

Symphony of the Hills: Nancy Zhou, violin 4/29 & 5/2, Thu @ 7:30pm Sun @ 2:30pm Dr. Jay Dunnahoo, conductor Kathleen C. Cailloux Theater, Kerrville

Dale Watson 4/17, Sat @ 9pm John T. Floore Country Store

Trans-Siberian Orchestra: Beethoven’s Last Night 2010 4/30, Fri @ 8pm Municipal Auditorium

Chris Knight 4/17, Sat @ 9pm Gruene Hall P.D.Q. Bach & Peter Schickele: The Jekyll & Hyde Tour Kerrville Performing Arts Society Presentation 4/17-18, Sat @ 7:30pm Sun @ 2pm Kathleen C. Cailloux Theater Kyle Park Band County Line Music Series 4/21, Wed @ 6:30pm County Line BBQ, IH-10 James McMurtry 4/23, Fri @ 9pm John T. Floore Country Store Three Men and a Maestro 4/24, Sat @ 7:30pm Brauntex Performing Arts Theatre, New Braunfels Lee Trio San Antonio Chamber Music Society Presentation 4/25, Sun @ 3:15pm First Unitarian Universalist Church

38 On The Town | March-April 2010

Randy Rogers Band 4/30, Fri @ 9pm John T. Floore Country Store San Antonio Symphony: Four Seasons of Buenos Aires 4/30-5/1, Fri-Sat @ 8pm Josep Caballe-Domenech, conductor Ertan Torgul, violin Majestic Theatre

On Stage South Pacific Broadway Across America Presentation 3/2-7, Tue-Fri @ 8pm Sat @ 2pm & 8pm Sun @ 2pm & 7:30pm Majestic Theatre Night Watch 3/4-3/14, Thu-Sat @ 8pm (Dinner @ 6:30pm) Sun @ 3pm (lunch @ 1:30pm) S.T.A.G.E – Spotlight Theatre & Arts Group, etc., Bulverde

Listen to the Music – Celebrating the Sounds of the 70s 3/4-4/10, Thu-Sat @ 8pm (Dinner @ 6:30pm) Harlequin Dinner Theatre Porgy and Bess 3/5, Fri @ 7:30pm Municipal Auditorium A Brief History of Root Vegetables UTSA Department of Music – Lyric Theatre Presentation 3/5 & 7, Fri @ 7:30pm Sun @ 3pm Buena Vista Theatre, UTSA Downtown Campus Betrayed 3/5-4/3, Fri-Sat @ 8pm Sun @ 2:30pm Cellar Theatre San Pedro Playhouse Dearly Departed 3/6-21, Fri-Sat @ 8pm Sun @ 3pm Cameo Theatre Forum Theatre Project: On Love and Marriage 3/11-12, Thu & Fri @ 8pm Attic Theatre Trinity University All My Sons Classic Theatre Presentation 3/11-28, Thu-Sat @ 8pm Sun @ 3pm Sterling Houston Theatre @ Blue Star

March-April 2010 | On The Town 39

Five Women Wearing The Same Dress 3/12-27, Fri-Sat @ 7:30pm Rose Theatre Company The Ides of Texas: Short Play Showcase 3/12-27, Fri-Sat @ 8pm Sun @ 3pm (3/21 only) The Overtime Theater @ Blue Star Underground Railway Theatre: Are You Ready My Sister?

3/13, Sat @ 10am Jo Long Theatre @ Carver Community Cultural Center Peter Pan 3/18-4/18, Fri-Sat @ 8pm Sun @ 3pm Woodlawn Theatre Mauritius 3/19-27, Thu @ 7:30pm Fri-Sat @ 8pm Sun @ 2:30pm Boerne Community Theatre Leading Ladies 3/19-4/17, Fri-Sat @ 7:30pm Sun @ 2pm The Point Theatre, Ingram

The Proposition 4/2, Fri @ 7pm Jo Long Theatre @ Carver Community Cultural Center The Happy Couple 4/8-5/1, Thu-Sat @ 8pm The Overtime Theater @ Blue Star To Kill a Mockingbird 4/8-5/2, Thu-Sat @ 8pm Sun @ 2pm Circle Arts Theatre, New Braunfels The Odd Couple Fredericksburg Theater Company Presentation 4/9-25, Fri-Sat @ 7:30pm Sun @ 2pm Steve W. Shepherd Theater Harlequin: The Servant of Two Masters 4/16-18 & 4/21-24 Wed-Thu @ 7pm Fri-Sat @ 8pm Sun @ 2:30pm Jane and Arthur Stieren Theatre, Trinity University

Curtains 3/26-4/25, Fri-Sat @ 8pm Sun @ 2:30pm Russell Hill Rogers Theatre San Pedro Playhouse

Jailbirds 4/16-5/1, Fri-Sat @7:30pm Rose Theatre Company

Social Security 3/27-4/25, Fri-Sat @ 8pm Sun @ 3pm Cameo Theatre

The Dixie Swim Club 4/22-5/29, Thu-Sat @ 8pm (Dinner @ 6:30pm) Harlequin Dinner Theatre

40 On The Town | March-April 2010

Father’s Day 4/29-5/16, Thu-Sat @ 8pm (Dinner @ 6:30pm) Sun @ 3pm (lunch @ 1:30pm) S.T.A.G.E – Spotlight Theatre & Arts Group, etc., Bulverde Rent 4/29-5/30, Thu @ 7:30pm Sat @ 8pm Sun @ 2:30pm (No shows on Fridays, and no show on Thursday, 5/20) Sheldon Vexler Theatre

The Dance Waking From Recklessness Ballet Conservatory of South Texas Presentation 3/6-7, Sat @ 7:30pm Sun @ 3pm Jo Long Theatre @ Carver Community Cultural Center

Andy Hendrickson 3/3-7, Wed-Thu & Sun @ 8:30pm Fri-Sat @ 8:30pm & 10:30pm Rivercenter Comedy Club John Morgan 3/10-14, Wed-Thu & Sun @ 8pm Fri-Sat @ 8pm & 10:15pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club Dean Austin 3/10-14, Wed-Thu & Sun @ 8:30pm Fri-Sat @ 8:30pm & 10:30pm Rivercenter Comedy Club Justin Worsham 3/17 & 21, Wed & Sun @ 8pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club

Coppelia Ballet San Antonio Presentation 3/20-21, Sat @ 2pm & 7:30pm Sun @ 2pm Majestic Theatre

Tom Simmons 3/17-21, Wed-Thu & Sun @ 8:30pm Fri-Sat @ 8:30pm & 10:30pm Rivercenter Comedy Club

The Art of Dance 4/8-10, Thu-Sat @ 7:30pm Municipal Auditorium

Nick DiPaolo 3/18-20, Thu @ 8pm Fri-Sat @ 8pm & 10:15pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club

Stand Up Mike MacDonald 3/3-7, Wed-Thu & Sun @ 8pm Fri-Sat @ 8pm & 10:15pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club

Joey Medina 3/24-28, Wed-Thu & Sun @ 8:30pm Fri-Sat @ 8:30pm & 10:30pm Rivercenter Comedy Club

Rocky Laporte 3/25-28, Thu & Sun @ 8pm Fri-Sat @ 8pm & 10:15pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club

Alonzo Boden 4/1-3, Thu @ 8pm Fri-Sat @ 8pm & 10:15pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club

Chris Fonseca 3/31 & 4/4, Wed @ 8:30pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club

Lisa Landry 4/7-11, Wed-Thu & Sun @ 8pm Fri-Sat @ 8pm & 10:15pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club

Joey Medina 3/31-4/4, Wed-Thu & Sun @ 8:30pm Fri-Sat @ 8:30pm & 10:30pm Rivercenter Comedy Club

Mike Yard 4/14-18, Wed-Thu & Sun @ 8pm Fri-Sat @ 8pm & 10:15pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club

Cesar Cervantes 4/14-18, Wed-Thu & Sun @ 8:30pm Fri-Sat @ 8:30pm & 10:30pm Rivercenter Comedy Club Cleto Rodriguez 4/21-25, Wed-Thu & Sun @ 8pm Fri-Sat @ 8pm & 10:15pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club Tom Cotter 4/28-5/2, Wed-Thu & Sun @ 8pm Fri-Sat @ 8pm & 10:15pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club

For The Kids If You Give a Goose a Muffin 3/2-20, Tue-Thu @ 9:45am & 11:30am Fri @ 9:45am, 11:30am & 7pm Sat @ 2pm Magik Theatre Pinkalicious 3/23-4/17, Tue-Thu @ 9:45am & 11:30am Fri @ 9:45am, 11:30am & 7pm Sat @ 2pm Magik Theatre

March-April May-June 2009 2010 | On The Town 41

Harold and the Purple Crayon Children’s Fine Arts Series Presentation 4/14, Wed @ 6:30pm Charline McCombs Empire Theatre How I Became a Pirate 4/27-6/12, Tue-Thu @ 9:45am & 11:30am Fri @ 9:45am, 11:30am & 7pm Sat @ 2pm Magik Theatre

Miscellaneous Disney On Ice: Let’s Celebrate 3/17-21, Wed-Fri @ 7:30pm Sat @ 11:30am, 3:30pm & 7:30pm Sun @ 3pm Alamodome Taste of CIA Cookbooks: Bistros and Brasseries 3/20, Sat / 9:30am-2:30pm Culinary Institute of America at Pearl Brewery Taste of CIA Cookbooks: The Italian Table 4/10, Sat / 9:30am-2:30pm Culinary Institute of America at Pearl Brewery

On Exhibit ARTPACE Hudson (Show)Room Alejandro Cesarco: Index Thru 5/2

Window Works David Zamora Casas: Picante Thru 5/9 International Artist-In-Residence New Works: 10.1 Buster Graybill Klara Liden Ulrike Muller Helen Molesworth, curator Opens 3/18 BLUE STAR CONTEMPORARY ART CENTER Soomin Jung: A Girl in the Middle 3/4-28

McNAY ART MUSEUM Recent Acquistion of Prints and Drawings Thru 3/14 An Impressionist Sensibility: The Halff Collection Thru 5/9 TruthBeauty: Pictorialism and the Photograph as Art,1845-1945 Thru 5/9 Impressionist Graphics at the McNay Thru 5/16 MUSEO ALAMEDA

Amalgamations 25: 28 Artists for 25 Great Years 3/4-5/15

Arte en La Charreria: The Artisanship of Mexican Equestrian Culture Thru 5/2

GUADALUPE CULTURAL ARTS CENTER

SAN ANTONIO BOTANICAL GARDEN

La Mezcla/The Mixture Thru 3/5

Albert Paley: Art In The Garden Curated by Bill Fitzgibbons 3/25-9/30

INSTITUTO CULTURAL de MEXICO Remarkable Paradigms: Women From Mexico in the 21st Century Veronica Prida Rebeca Rico Hesse Carla Veliz 3/6-31 The Architecture of Tatiana Bilboa, 2004-10 4/8-6/20

42 On The Town | March-April 2010

John Henry: Art In The Garden Curated by Bill FitzGibbon Thru 6/1/10 SAN ANTONIO MUSEUM OF ART Season Two of Seasons of Beauty: Yoshitoshi’s Thirty-Two Aspects of Life Thru 4/11

Psychedelic: Optical and Visionary Art since the 1960s 3/13-8/1 SOUTHWEST SCHOOL OF ART & CRAFT Louis Vega Trevino: Color Shift Thru 4/3 Vincent Valez: Flashback Thru 4/11 Bruce Metcalf: The Miniature Worlds Thru 4/11 Attracted to Light Thru 4/18 Flipping the Bird Thru 4/18 Jung Mun: Retracing Sensation 4/17-6/26 Kurt Weiser: Eden Revisited 4/29-6/27 INSTITUTE OF TEXAN CULTURES Race: Are We So Different Thru 5/16 Texas Contemporary Artists Series: Carmen Oliver Thru 6/20 A Salute to Military Flight Thru 7/4 Small Town Texas 3/25 – 5/23

March-April 2010 | On The Town 43

WITTE MUSEUM Colors on Clay: Pottery of San Antonio Thru 3/21 Table of Contents: Portraits and Stories of Hunger and Resilience

By Michael Nye Thru 4/4 Don Yena: Painting the South Texas Story Thru 6/6 Dinosaurs Unearthed 3/6-9/6 A Royal Garden 4/15-9/15

Festivals & Celebrations Contemporary Art Month Throughout March at museums and art galleries citywide First Friday Art Walk 3/5 & 4/2, Fri / 6-9pm Southtown / Blue Star / King William St. Patrick’s Day Celebration 3/5-17 River Walk Remember The Alamo Weekend 3/6-7 Luminaria: Arts Night in San Antonio 3/13, Sat / 6pm-12am

NCAA Final Four Women’s Basketball Tournament 4/4-6 Alamodome Poteet Strawberry Festival 4/9-11 Fiesta San Antonio 4/15-25 www.fiesta-sa.org for events

On Screen Carmen 3/18 & 21, Thu @ 7pm Sun @ 3pm Embassy Theatre Stravinsky & The Ballet Russes 3/25 & 28, Thu @ 7pm Sun @ 3pm Embassy Theatre Hamlet 3/27, Sat @ 12pm 4/14, Wed @ 6:30pm Cielo Vista 18 Fiesta 16 Theatre McCreeles Mall Cinema The Black Eyed Peas 3/30, Tue @ 9:30pm Cielo Vista 18 Fiesta 16 Theatre McCreeles Mall Cinema Il Trovatore 4/15 & 18, Thu @ 7pm Sun @ 3pm Embassy Theatre

44 On The Town | March-April July-August 2010 2009

Selected Area Highlights Fiddler on the Roof Broadway Across America Presentation 3/2-7, Tue-Fri @ 8pm Sat @ 2pm & 8pm Sun @ 2pm & 7:30m Bass Concert Hall, Austin Wynton Marsalis and Jazz at Lincoln Center 3/4, Thu @ 8pm Paramount Theatre, Austin Tim McGraw 3/6, Sat @ 8pm State Farm Arena, Hidalgo John Mayer 3/8, Mon @ 7pm Frank Erwin Center, Austin Taylor Swift 3/10, Wed @ 7pm Frank Erwin Center, Austin 3/12, Fri @ 7pm American Bank Center Arena, Corpus Christi George Lopez 3/12, Fri @ 8pm Laredo Entertainment Center An Evening with Patti LuPone and Mandy Patinkin 3/25, Thu @ 8pm Michael & Susan Dell Hall @ The Long Center, Austin

Hal Holbrook in Mark Twain Tonight Jam Theatricals Presentation 3/27, Sat @ 8pm Selena Auditorium at American Bank Center, Corpus Christi Hall & Oates 3/27, Sat @ 8pm Michael & Susan Dell Hall @ The Long Center, Austin Phantom of the Opera Broadway Across America Presentation 3/27-4/4, Tue-Fri @ 8pm Sat @ 2pm & 8pm Sun @ 2pm & 7:30m Bass Concert Hall, Austin Kenny Loggins 4/7, Wed @ 8pm Paramount Theatre, Austin Chicago 4/8, Thu @ 8pm Laredo Entertainment Center Elton John 4/10, Sat @ 8pm Frank Irwin Center, Austin Lang Lang, Christoph Eschenbach and the Schleswig-Holstein Festival Orchestra 4/13, Tue @ 8pm Michael & Susan Dell Hall @The Long Center, Austin Chelsea Handler 4/16, Fri @ 8pm Bass Concert Hall, Austin

March-April 2010 | On The Town 45

Frederica von Stade, mezzo soprano Corpus Christi Symphony 4/17, Sat @ 8pm Performing Arts Center @ Texas A&M Corpus Christi In The Heights Broadway Across America Presentation 4/20-25, Tue-Fri @ 8pm Sat @ 2pm & 8pm Sun @ 2m 7:30pm Bass Concert Hall, Austin Hansel and Gretel Austin Lyric Opera Presentation 4/24, Sat @ 7:30pm 4/28, Wed @ 7:30pm 4/30, Fri @ 7:30pm 5/2, Sun @ 3pm Michael & Susan Dell Hall @ The Long Center, Austin David Sedaris 4/27, Tue @ 8pm Michael & Susan Dell Hall @ The Long Center, Austin

Photo Credits Page 36 (Left to Right) San Antonio Rose Live Singers Courtesy saroselive.com

Brandi Carlile Photo by Jeremy Cowart Page 37 (Left to Right) Kevin Fowler Courtesy cmt.com Andrew Armstrong Courtesy andrewarm strong.com Gregory Vajda Courtesy San Antonio Symphony Cross Canadian Ragweed Courtesy liveatfloores.com

Marvin Hamlisch Courtesy Kerrville Performing Arts Society Max Stalling Photo by Allison V. Smith Page 41 (Left to Right) Andrew Grams Courtesy San Antonio Symphony David Heller Courtesy Trinity University Music Department Peter Schickele Courtesy schickele.com

Page 38 (Left to Right)

The Lee Trio Courtesy theleetrio.com

Jupiter String Quartet Courtesy San Antonio Chamber Music Society

Page 42 (Left to Right)

Ahn Trio Courtesy ahntrio.com Gary P. Nunn Courtesy liveatfloores.com Ken-David Masur Photo by Greg Harrison Page 40 (Left to Right)

Michelle Adam Courtesy symphonyofthehills.org

Dee Dee Bridgewater Courtesy deedeebridge water.com

Chris Young Photo by Marnia Chavez

Charlie Robison Courtesy liveatfloores.com

46 On The Town | March-April 2010

Nancy Zhou Courtesy symphonyof thehills.com Randy Rogers Band Courtesy liveatfloores.com

Lisa Landry Courtesy lisalandry.com Soomin Jung: Dream Bike Courtesy Blue Star Contemporary Art Center John Singer Sargent American, born Italy, 1856-1925 The Sulphur Match Oil on canvas, 23 x 16 1/4 in.

Page 46 (Left to Right) Frank Weston Benson American, 1862-1951 Elizabeth and Anna, ca. 1909 Oil on canvas, 32 x 25 in.

McNay Art Museum Taiso Yoshitoshi Japan (1839-1892) Smoky: the appearance of a housewife of the Kyowa era, 1801-1804 Thirty-Two Aspects of Daily Life, 1888 Woodblock print on paper 37.6 x 25.7 cm overall paper Lent by Lenora and Walter F. Brown Photography by Peggy Tenison San Antonio Museum of Art

Page 44 (Left to Right)

Bruce Metcalf: The Miniature Worlds Deliverance From a Guilded Cage 1994, pins: sterling silver, brass, 14k gold, micarta 3”X 1 ¼”, stage: painted wood, 8 ½” x 7 ¾” x 1 ¼” collection of Nan Schaffer Southwest School of Art and Craft

Rocky Laporte Courtesy rockylaporte.com

Battle of Flowers Parade Courtesy Fiesta® San Antonio

Coppelia Photo courtesy Ballet San Antonio Carmen Cusack as Ensign Nellie Forbush in South Pacific Photo by Peter Coombs

March-April 2010 | On The Town 47

48 On The Town | March-April 2010

Festivals & Celebrations 50-68

March-April 2010 | On The Town 49

Fiesta San Antonio 2010 ®

April 15-25

By Anne Keever Cannon Photography Jon Alonzo and Chuck Blische

“

50 On The Town | March-April 2010

F

iesta® San Antonio will take off with a bang April 15 when thousands gather for Fiesta Fiesta at the Alamo.

That’s the first of more than 100 events that will take place all over the city and beyond. Which of those will you visit this year?

a luncheon and the opportunity to learn how to create your own beautiful flower arrangement—which you take home with you. Admission is $100. All proceeds help the association’s fight against amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, often known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. The group’s missions include research, patient and community services, public education, and advocacy.

For the first time in almost 50 years, Fiesta will feature no new events, said Mary Begia, 2010 president of the Fiesta San Antonio Commission, the nonprofit organization Other activities are just for fun—and are free! The U.S. Air that coordinates the 11-day festival.

Force Band of the West, headquartered at Lackland AFB, offers two concerts, April 20 and 21. They’re at Trinity The commission made a change in its policies last year, University’s Laurie Auditorium. Fiesta in Blue this year will Begia said. It now will review nonprofit organizations’ feature “Latin American Legends.” proposed events for one year before voting on whether to accept them as new official Fiesta activities.

In fact, about 60 percent of Fiesta events charge no admission. The organizers are hoping their guests will But residents and visitors still have a huge menu to open up their wallets, though, to buy food, beverages or choose from in 2010. “Most people have their favorite souvenirs. Remember, they’re raising revenue that will events that they go to every year,” Begia said. “That’s help them help their neighbors all year long. great, but we really encourage everyone to try out a few Need help in setting up your itinerary? The best place other activities, too.” to start is at the official Fiesta Web page, fiesta-sa.org. It Most Fiesta events are fundraisers for their sponsoring includes a daily schedule and descriptions of every event. nonprofit groups. For example, the South Texas ALS But here’s a suggested list of two events for each day of Association offers Battle ALS With Flowers April 17 at the Fiesta (one free and one with a fee). Some of these may headquarters of Valero Energy Corp. The event includes overlap—you’ll have some hard choices to make!

March-April 2010 | On The Town 51

April 15

• Fiesta Fiesta at the Alamo, 5-10 p.m., the official opening of Fiesta. Free admission.

• Tejano Explosion, 5:30 p.m.-2 a.m., Cattleman’s Square, admission varies.

April 16

• Randolph Art League Exhibit and Sale, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Alamo Plaza. Free admission.

• The WEBB Party, 7 p.m., San Antonio Events Center.

Tickets $60 in advance.

April 17

• Fiesta de los Niños, 10 a.m., Port San Antonio, 200 Goodrich. Free admission.

• All American Canteen, 6:30 p.m., Henry B. Gonzales Convention Center, 200 E. Market St. Tickets $65.

April 18

• Fiesta Nueva, noon, St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 502 E. Nueva. Free admission.

• Champagne and Diamonds Brunch, 10:30 a.m., Alzafar Shrine Temple, 901 N. Loop 1604 W. Tickets $100.

April 19

• Cutting Edge Fiesta Fashion Show, 10 a.m., Marriott Rivercenter Hotel, 101 Bowie St. Tickets $75-$150.

• Air Force at the Alamo, 11 a.m., Alamo Plaza.

Free admission.

April 20

• Miss Margaret’s Victorian House Tour (April 17-24), noon, 409 E. Guenther St., King William District. $5 donation for admission.

• Mariachi Festival (April 20-23), 7 p.m., River Walk, River Bend and extension of Paseo del Rio. Free admission.

April 21

• Lackland Fiesta Military Parade, 9:30 a.m., Lackland Air Force Base Parade Grounds. Free admission.

• Fiesta Gartenfest (April 21-24), 5 p.m., Beethoven Garten, 422 Pereida at South Alamo. Admission $5 ($3 in advance).

April 22

• San Antonio Cactus and Xerophyte Society Show and Sale, 9 a.m., San Antonio Garden Center, 3310 N. New Braunfels Ave. Free admission.

52 On The Town | March-April 2010

• Navy Fiesta Reception, 6:30 p.m., Fort Sam Houston Golf Clubhouse, 2901 Harry Wurzbach Road.

Admission $20.

April 23

• Fiesta World Class Jazz Concert, 1 p.m., St. Mary’s University, 1 Camino Santa Maria. Free admission.

• Miss San Antonio Scholarship Pageant, 6:30 p.m., Charline McCombs Empire Theater, 226 N. St. Mary’s St. Tickets $20 for adults, $10 for 6 and under.

April 24

• Alamo City Fiesta Rugby Tournament, 9 a.m., Brooks Field Park, 3606 Goliad Road. Free admission.

• El Consejo Fiesta Reception, 5 p.m., Sheraton Gunter Hotel, 205 E. Houston St. Tickets $75.

April 25

• Fiesta Blues Heritage Series, noon, Sunset Station, 1174 E. Commerce St. Tickets $12.

• San Antonio Municipal Band Concert, 3 p.m., McAllister Auditorium at San Antonio College, 1300 San Pedro Ave. Free admission.

Whichever Fiesta activities you choose, the Fiesta Commission encourages you to “think green,” Begia said.

Fiesta and the city of San Antonio are launching Viva Verde! in 2010. Look for recycling bins at many events, and use them to dispose of your plastic, glass or aluminum.

Viva Fiesta 2010!

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Photo Credits: Page 50 Spanish Dancer Photo by Jon Alonzo Page 51 Battle of Flowers Parade Photo by Chuck Blische Page 52 (Top) Charro at Fiesta Charreada Photo by Jon Alonzo

Page 52 (cont.)

(Bottom) Fiesta Flambeau Parade Photo by Chuck Blische Page 53 (Top) Spanish Beauties at Fiesta Charreada Photo by Jon Alonzo (Bottom) Battle of the Bands Festival Photo by Jon Alonzo

March-April 2010 | On The Town 53

UNAPOLOGETICALLY TEXAN Valero Texas Open May 13-16

By Tony Piazzi Photos courtesy Golf San Antonio

O

n the last day of 2009, Texas and the entire country said “so long” and “good riddance” to a leather-tough year, and one of the craziest decades in U.S. history. The 2000s had barely begun and 9/11 hit us like a Panhandle dust storm. We shook off the dust and rode high in the saddle through years of economic prosperity only to buckle under the weight of a burst housing bubble and a financial meltdown.

New Year’s Eve wasn’t so much about celebrating the New Year as about surviving the “Lost Decade.”

54 On The Town | March-April 2010

Survival was front and center for the folks at Golf San Antonio and the Valero Texas Open when the Lost Decade began. Lacking a title sponsor and held back by a tough date, one of San Antonio’s cherished traditions and Texas’ most storied and oldest professional golf tournament was staggering like a cowboy thrown by an angry bull.

But the tournament survived. And while much of the country spent the decade going up and down like the

water level of the Edwards Aquifer in San Antonio, the Valero Texas Open found itself climbing steadily to the top of the PGA TOUR charity leader board, thanks to Valero Energy Corporation, a home-grown company with a heart as big as the great state of Texas.

tournament spent the entire decade of the 2000s, to a coveted spot in May.

The first spring event in more than 40 years, hosted only seven months after a record-setting event in October 2008, was a big winner. Despite hard economic Valero’s big heart and their can-do spirit lifted the times and a short turnaround, loyal sponsors, fans and tournament as high as a big Texas sky. As the decade volunteers pitched in and helped donate $8 million came to a close, historic changes were on the horizon, to charity. Zach Johnson’s exciting repeat win in a beginning with a move from a fall date where the playoff over a stronger player field attracted more March-April 2010 | On The Town 55

spectators to the Resort Course at La Cantera and a large international audience on CBS. The move-in date, which put the Valero Texas Open smack in the middle of the PGA TOUR regular season and the FedExCup Competition, was just the beginning. Another even bigger move was being planned. After a wonderful 15-year stay at the beautiful Westin La Cantera Resort, the Valero Texas Open will celebrate the new decade in a new home; the breathtaking new J.W. Marriott Hill Country Resort and Spa and TPC San Antonio.

Just wait until you lay your eyes on this magnificent new host site. It’s a Texas-sized resort that delivers everything the Texas Hill Country promises and more. From a 1,002room JW Marriott Resort, the largest JW Marriott in the world, to two world-class championship golf courses designed by World Golf Hall of Fame members Pete Dye and Greg Norman, the new home of the Valero Texas Open represents the best of what San Antonio’s incredible Hill Country has to offer.

To take full advantage of this exciting new home, Golf San Antonio is planning to celebrate the move-in Texas style with great food, live music and, of course, some unbelievable golf played by some of the world’s best players; including defending champion Zach Johnson, as he tries to join Arnold Palmer and Texas native Justin Leonard as the tournament’s only threetime champions.

With a spring date and an exciting new venue on the 2010 horizon, a fantastic new chapter is being written in the colorful history of the Valero Texas Open. A chapter that allows organizers to be true to what the tournament founders meant back in 1922 when they named the event the “Texas Open.” A chapter where we can celebrate who we are and no longer have to apologize for what we’re not.

The Valero Texas Open always has had a unique quality.

It’s always been a little bit different. And thanks to a lot of help from friends at Valero Energy Corp., the world is starting to take notice. With a new date and a new course, there certainly is a lot to talk about.

56 On The Town | March-April January-February 2010 2010

And talk, we will. As this exciting new chapter unfolds, we’re going to deliver our brand message loud and proud…by mixing in a bit of our unique history, sprinkling it with a strong dose of Texas pride and flavoring it with a personality that will leave no doubt to fans and the television audience that the Valero Texas Open truly is…

Unapologetically Texan.

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58 On The Town | March-April 2010

Luminaria: Arts Night in San Antonio Hundreds of Artists, Eight Stages, Six Disciplines, One Night

By Shannon Huntington Standley Photography by Greg Harrison March-April 2010 | On The Town 59

S

an Antonio’s nod to the incredible local arts scene is back. The award-winning Luminaria: Arts Night in San Antonio returns from 6 p.m.midnight March 13, transforming the streets of downtown through music, dance and theatrical performances; streetscape art; light installations; literary presentations; art galleries and more. And did we mention it is all free?

This year boasts an exciting new footprint, stretching along Alamo Street between Market and Durango, including HemisFair Park, the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center and Maverick Plaza within La Villita. In addition to a new footprint, this year also promises a vast array of new things to see and do — with nearly half of the participants making their first appearance at Luminaria. However, favorites from the past also are returning like “Libro Libre,” Gemini Ink’s book give-away and the laser show on the Hilton Palacio del Rio.

This third annual celebration of San Antonio’s artists, musicians, performers and cultural organizations is the only one of its kind in the entire state of Texas and was inspired by similar celebrations in Chicago, Paris, Rome and Madrid. Additionally, Luminaria is a completely artist-driven event, and a collaboration of hundreds of artists coming together to magnify every major discipline in the arts including theater, music, dance, film and media, visual arts and literary arts.

Luminaria 2010 is being co-chaired by Paula Owen, artist and president of the Southwest School of Art & Craft; and George Cisneros, artist and co-founder of Urban 15. The co-chairs are surrounded by an equally dedicated group of committee members, who not only represent the local arts scene, but volunteer their time to ensure another successful Arts Night in San Antonio. Attracting more than 100,000 visitors in 2008 and more than 175,000 visitors in 2009, it is no wonder Luminaria has received national and international acclaim. Luminaria 2009 received a Pinnacle Award from the International Downtown Association (IDA) and is being recognized during the 55th IDA Annual Conference in Milwaukee.

For more information visit www.luminariasa.org.

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March-April 2010 | On The Town 61

New World Wine & Food Festival Finds the Right Recipe for Change

San Antonio’s Premier Wine and Food Experience Moves from November to May in 2010

By Therese McDevitt Photos Courtesy NWW&FF

62 On The Town | March-April 2010

T

he New World Wine & Food Festival -- San Antonio’s premier wine and food experience – is shaking things up a bit and coming up with a new recipe for 2010: the Festival will take place in May, instead of of November, and will include an exciting partnership with the Valero Texas Open. This will be the New World Wine & Food Festival’s 11th anniversary, following a record-setting 10th anniversary year in 2009. New dates for 2010 will be May 12 – 16, with other popular events still planned for later in the year as well.

“We are moving the New World Wine and Food Festival dates to coincide and partner with The Valero Texas Open in May and we are delighted to be moving in such a unique direction,” said Suzanne Taranto, president and CEO of the NWWFF. “Our new dates and this creative partnership will allow us to offer multi-faceted outreach to sponsors, visitors, chefs, wineries and more with incredible potential for growth and expansion. We think the combination of golf and music with our already stellar food and wine experience will be a winning one for all of our guests. We have some surprises lined up that will help take us to a whole new level in terms of national and international awareness as well.”

“The Valero Texas Open is much more than a professional golf tournament: it is an experience,” said Tony Piazza, president & CEO, Golf San Antonio and the Valero Texas Open. “Partnering with the New World Wine & Food Festival, and collaborating on events, is a wonderful opportunity to elevate our sponsor, player and spectator experience.

We couldn’t be more thrilled with the collaborative efforts and the events we have planned. Plus, these events are additional ways to raise funds for charitable organizations in our community, which matches our overall mission.”

The New World Wine & Food Festival offers something for every palate and budget. Listed below are the events for this year’s festival starting on Wednesday, May 12 and concluding on Sunday, May 16.

Wednesday, May 12 6-8pm - Sip, Savor & Shop, $35 The Shops at La Cantera The Shops at La Cantera host an event that features wine tasting, hors d’oeuvres, shopping discounts and gifts. We’re also highlighting your Festival Fashion Guide as well as

March-April 2010 | On The Town 63

cooking demos, live entertainment and door prizes.

Thursday, May 13 7pm - Burgers, BBQ & Beer, $35 / JW Marriott Resort presented by AON Shameful enjoyment awaits you at the annual Burgers & Beer Event – with BBQ added in this year! Chefs put a new spin on the backyard classic, meat plays a starring role, but look for noteworthy and significant exceptions, too.

Craft beer awaits you for a casual discovery of gourmet delights and an event worthy of being part of a culinary extravaganza.

8pm - Concert Series Entertainment by Robert Earl Keene, this fabulous entertainment can be included in your ticket price for an additional $20.

The package price for a day of golf at the Valero Texas Open, Burgers, BBQ & Beer and the concert is $55.

7pm - Winemaker Dinners: Prices vary / Various Locations Reservations must be placed directly with the restaurants Dine at San Antonio’s top restaurants as chefs work with winemakers from around the globe pairing the best bottles with delectable cuisine.

Friday, May 14 11:30am - Becker Vineyards Winery Lunch, $55 / Becker Vineyards The Beckers host visiting winemakers and pair their wines with multiple courses to create a beautiful and delicious afternoon in the vineyard.

7pm - The Grand Tasting, $60 The Grotto at the Henry B Gonzalez Convention Center Treat yourself to a night in downtown San Antonio. As you stroll along the serene River Walk, prepare your palate for discovery. Sample seafood, freshly grilled meats, vegetarian specialties, trend-oriented fare, decadent desserts, and so much more as San Antonio’s finest chefs prepare just the right amount to pair with an array of 64 On The Town | March-April 2010

wines and beverages to sample. The sheer scope of the evening will be decidedly high-end from the moment you arrive and receive your festival glass, through lively entertainment and food and wine pairings: the beauty of San Antonio luxuriously awaits you.

Saturday, May 15 Wine Seminars and Cooking Demos TBA 11:00am - Bloody Mary Brunch, $40 / Hotel Valencia Your guide to the morning after, this Bloody Mary Breakfast Extravaganza will help prepare you for the rest of the week’s events and get you on track and wide awake with a little spice and a mixologist to guide your journey.

7:30pm - The Best of Mexico, $35 / JW Marriott Resort Rediscover your passion for rich flavors infused with colorful culture as trends are shared and demonstrated, celebrating all the treasures of Mexican haute cuisine.

Satisfy your cravings for the exotic as you are transported to the various regions of Mexico and lose yourself in entertainment and wines to sip and savor along with the warm hospitality of San Antonio.

Sunday, May 16 1pm - Totally Texas / Rio Cibolo Ranch Take a lovely drive to one of the most beautiful ranches in Texas! Bring the family and spend an afternoon discovering exotic recipes, sampling cuisines from some of the area’s most exciting restaurants. Culinary, wine and lifestyle seminars are offered throughout the day for those who want to know more. Beer and BBQ play a large role, too! All ages are welcome, with family friendly activities including hayrides, barge rides, storytelling and more.

Live entertainment keeps things festive as Texas vendors join in to celebrate the unique and amazing products Texas has to offer. It’s the perfect finale to the Festival with the beauty of a Texas ranch as a glorious backdrop and all the best food and wines.

The NWWFF is a non-profit organization promoting San Antonio as a premier wine and food destination and supporting local students in culinary arts and food- related aid organizations. For more information: www.nwwff.org or 210-822-9555.

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29th Annual Tejano Conjunto Festival May 11-15

By Juan Tejeda Photography courtesy Guadalupe Cultural Center

S

an Antonio long has been known as the Conjunto music capital of the world because of its rich and vibrant musical and artistic scene that is steeped in Mexican-American traditions, and because it is the home to many conjuntos and the annual Tejano Conjunto Festival.

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Conjunto is the original American musical ensemble and style of music that was created by the TexasMexicans during the early-to-mid 1900s which utilizes the button accordion and bajo sexto guitar as its principal instruments. It is a unique musical synthesis that combines German/European and Mexican/

American instruments and rhythms such as polkas, waltzes and huapangos with other national and international musical influences that include blues, rock, jazz, Colombian cumbias and Cuban boleros, among others.

The Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center created the Tejano Conjunto Festival to preserve and promote conjunto music, to honor and present its pioneering and popular artists, and to foster a better understanding and appreciation for Chicano music and culture.

The 29th Annual Tejano Conjunto Festival en San Antonio 2010 will take place from May 11-15 at the Guadalupe Theater and Rosedale Park. Highlights of the festival include a seniors conjunto dance; a CD release party for the Best of the 28th Annual Tejano Conjunto Festival recorded live at last year’s event; inductions into the Conjunto Music Hall of Fame; hands-on workshops for the button accordion and bajo sexto conducted by Grammy Award-winners Joel Guzmán and Max Baca; and 20 of the best bands in conjunto music with a one-of-a-kind-lineup that includes five-time Grammy Award-winner Flaco Jiménez and Conjunto Music Hall of Famers Rubén Vela, Eva Ybarra and Los Dos Gilbertos. Other popular performers at this year’s festival are Roberto Pulido y Los Clásicos, David Lee Garza y Los Musicales, Los Texmaniacs, AJ Castillo, Boni Mauricio, Los Fantasmas del Valle and Joel Guzmán Sarah Fox and Conjuntazzo.

There also will be an international contingent performing at the festival with Dwayne Verheyden and the TexMeXplosion from the Netherlands and Honorio Imamura from Japan.

The Tejano Conjunto Festival also features food and beverage booths, accordion raffles, conjunto student recitals and plenty of dancing and fun for the entire family in a park setting. For a complete schedule of events with dates, times, prices and lineups of the bands performing, visit www.guadalupeculturalarts. org or call 210.271.3151.

Photo Credits Page 66 Max Baca and David Farias of Los Texmaniacs Page 67 (Top) Flaco Jimenez (Bottom) Eva Ybarra March-April 2010 | On The Town 67

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Visual Arts 70-88

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Contemporary Art Month FP Editorial

70 On The Town | March-April 2010

Contemporary Art Month San Antonio’s Art and Culture Scene Marches into Spring

By Shannon Huntington Standley

W

hile celebrating its 25th anniversary, San Antonio’s Contemporary Art Month (CAM) also is celebrating the first-time move from .....................July to March.

Since 1986, San Antonio observes CAM and has remained the only city in the nation to annually dedicate a month-long celebration to contemporary arts. Each year hundreds of private studios, foundations, galleries, March-April 2010 | On The Town 71

of one of the best represented contemporary artists in the McNay Art Museum’s collection. On view March 24 through June 13, Past and Present, including more than 30 works, is the first time all of the McNay’s prints by Johns are on public view. In addition, the McNay’s Print Fair is back March 27-28. Don’t miss this only-one-of-its-kind event in Texas or the Southwest, hosting dealers from Hosting the official CAM kickoff party is Blue Star around the United States who bring prints, drawings, Contemporary Art Center, in conjunction with the watercolors and photographs to show and sell. opening of Amalgamations 25: 28 Artists for 25 Great Years, running March 4 through May 15, and A Girl in Get ready because dinosaurs are “roar”-turning to the the Middle, on view March 4-28, featuring Soomin Jung. Witte Museum this spring. Step back in time to 65 million Amalgamations 25, curated by Houston-based artist, years ago with Dinosaurs Unearthed, on view March 6 curator and critic Wayne Gilbert, features 28 artists through Sept. 6. Making its Texas debut at the Witte, this including Holly Hein and Bryson Brooks, Casey Arguellas, exhibit features the world’s largest and most advanced Kimberly Aubuchon, Jerry Cabrera, Judith Cottrell, animatronic dinosaurs, full skeletons and fossils. This Joey Fauerso, Aaron Forland, Tommy Gregory, Mignon is the first exhibition in the world to feature life-sized Harkrader, Megan Harrison, Mira Hnatyskyn-Hudson, feather-covered dinosaur models — highlighting the Ben Judson, Mat Kubo, Bora Lee, Enrique Martinez, Clay latest thinking in paleontology, including evidence McClure, Richard Mogas, Sasha Nochovka, Kyle Olson, suggesting some dinosaurs are the ancestors of modernCruz Ortiz, Justin Parr, Katie Pell, Kristy Perez, Ed Saavedra, day birds rather than modern reptiles.

James Smolleck, Sarah Sudhoff and Jeremiah Teutsch.

The Museo Alameda presents Arte en la Charrería: The Jasper Johns at the McNay: Past and Present features prints Artisanship of Mexican Equestrian Culture, an exhibition institutions and artists from around the world proudly participate in CAM — a direct reflection of the exciting and vital art community in San Antonio. In addition to the vast salute of contemporary arts, March in San Antonio promises an incredible showing encompassing all art forms.

Contemporary Art Month FP Editorial

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illustrating one of the richest on-going traditions of Mexico through art objects and costume. On view through May 2, Arte en la Charrería boasts more than 300 spectacular objects — many dating from the late 1800s — offering a window into the unique culture surrounding the charro, or Mexican cowboy. Leather work, costumes, textiles, silver and iron work, although crafted to serve a utilitarian purpose, merit consideration as art objects due to the exceptional craftsmanship of the charrería artisan, who takes pleasure in making each object with the bearer in mind.

past decade. Also showing through March are Louis Vega Treviño: Color Shift, Flipping the Bird and Attracted to Light.

Artpace’s New Works: 10.1 opens March 18. This installment, curated by Helen Molesworth, chief curator, ICA Boston, features the works of Buster Graybill, Klara Liden and Ulrike Müller. Graybill, from Huntsville, Texas, harvests memories, stories and objects from the rich cultural geography of rural America, using them as creative fuel.

Liden, from Berlin, Germany, has spent the past five years making a number of improvised constructions and video performances that offer basic propositions for ways Launching the Southwest School of Art & Craft’s CAM of living, all of which run sharply counter to the norm. offerings are The Miniature Worlds of Bruce Metcalf, and Müller, a Vienna-born, New York-based artist, spent the Flashback, an exhibit by Vincent Valdez, both on view past 10 years creating a feminist, theoretical and frankly through April 11. Metcalf is a nationally acclaimed activist body of work. sculptor working in metals, whose works have made him one of the country’s most recognizable thought-leaders Explore the reality and unreality of race at the Institute in contemporary art circles. His exhibit contextualizes 40 of Texan Cultures. Race: Are We So Different? is on years of work in relationship to his interests in architecture, view through May 16. This exhibit gives visitors the comics and the narrative voice. Valdez returns to his opportunity to look at the way race touches lives and the hometown from Los Angeles to exhibit his latest work. lives of the previous generations. Race is categorized into Flashback was chosen as the title to give a flavor of the three sections, science, history and everyday experience, rapid changes that have occurred in his life during the which are interwoven and tell a compelling story of

Contemporary Art Month FP Editorial

March-April 2010 | On The Town 73

science with deep and lasting social impact. Visitors can take a challenge to match voices with photos; scan their own skin; see how race has changed through American history; and experience a theater in which a first-person interpretation lets guests hear and respond to people talking about race and racism experiences.

It’s time to get funky at the San Antonio Museum of Art, with Psychedelic: Optical and Visionary Art Since the 1960s.

On view March 13 through Aug. 1, this eye-opening exhibition offers a visual history of the psychedelic sensibility. Today, psychedelic is associated with items such as lava lamps and album covers, but it first began in the extreme colors and kaleidoscopic compositions of 1960s Op Artists. Artists in the exhibition include Albert Alvarez, Richard Anuszkiewicz, Jeremy Blake, Richie Budd, George Cisneros, James Cobb, Jack Goldstein, Alex Grey, Al Held, Mark Hogensen, Constance Lowe, Erik Parker, Ray Rapp, Deborah Remington, Susie Rosmarin, Alex Rubio, Sterling Ruby, Frank Stella, Philip Taaffe, Fred Tomaselli, Victor Vasarely, Michael Velliquette and Robert Williams.

month.com), a nod to one artist’s collection, a 65 million years ago time machine, the culture of the charro or a flashback to the ’60s, San Antonians and South Texans are in for real treat this spring with art and culture offerings appealing to any taste.

Photo Credits: Page 70 Erik Parker Space Chase, 2006 mixed media on canvas 84 x 66 in.

Private collection, Los Angeles; courtesy of Honor Fraser Gallery, Los Angeles, Calif.

San Antonio Museum of Art

Page 71 Louis Vega Trevino Trapezoids Series, 2009 Oil on canvas, 16 x 60 in.

Whether it is in celebration of Contemporary Art Month Southwest School of Art (a full listing can be found at www.contemporaryart and Craft

Contemporary Art Month FP Editorial

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Page 72 (Left to Right) Jasper Johns Decoy II, 1973 Lithograph, Field catalogue 169, ULAE catalogue 125 Bequest of Mrs. Jerry Lawson McNay Art Museum

Page 73 (Left to Right) Constance Lowe Orange Alert Afterglow, 2008 oil and enamel on panel 25 x 29 in.

Courtesy of CE Group San Antonio Museum of Art

Louis Vega Trevino Slim, 2009 Oil on canvas, 28 x 33 in.

Southwest School of Art and Craft

Richard Mogas Landscape, 2010 Vinyl on wood panel Blue Star Contemporary Art Center

Melanie Yazzie Flight 15 x 15 in. collagraph and relief print Southwest School of Art and Craft

Jasper Johns Untitled (Devices), 1980 Lithograph, Field catalogue 206 Bequest of Robert H. Halff McNay Art Museum

Page 74 (Left to Right) Arte en la Charreria The Artisanship of Mexican Equestrian Culture Museo Alameda Bruce Metcalf Figure Pin #139, 1997 Maple, copper, brass, Corian, acrylic plastic, rosewood, 23k gold leaf, 5 ½” X 3” Private Collection Southwest School of Art and Craft Vincent Valdez I’m Your Brutha, from a Different Mutha, 2009 Pastel on paper, 42 x 88 in. each (diptych) Southwest School of Art and Craft

Witte Museum FP AD

Page 75 (Left to Right) Michael Velliquette Breakthrough, 2007 cut card stock and glue on paper 48 x 48 in.

Collection of Guillermo Nicolas San Antonio Museum of Art Vincent Valdez Boom, 2007 Oil on canvas, 64 x 64 in.

Southwest School of Art and Craft Dinosaurs Unearthed Photo courtesy of American Anthropological Association and Science Museum of Minnesota Witte Museum

March-April 2010 | On The Town 75

Tim Gette Ushering in a new era at the Institute of Texan Cultures Story and Photos by James Benavides

I

n February 2009, the University of Texas at San Antonio selected Timothy J. Gette to lead the Institute of Texan Cultures, the university’s museum dedicated to the people, cultures and history of Texas.

The museum’s administration had followed several paths and leadership styles through the years, including the storytelling of a newspaper editor, the efficiency of a former military officer, and the scholarly pursuits of an academic.

Tim Gette brings many years of experience in museum administration to the institute. His job is to modernize the 40-year-old facility, its collections and its programs.

Gette set a fast pace for upgrades and improvements; he admits it cannot happen overnight, but changes already have begun.

Gette has increased the institute’s emphasis on educational programming and greatly expanded the education staff, drawing upon lessons learned during his years at the Virginia Museum of Natural History from 2004 to 2009. Every institute exhibit now has an accompanying family day, as well as teachers’ resources available online.

Gette’s philosophy and style of leadership touches upon many of his predecessors’ strengths. He has a background in journalism and prior military service. Born in California, Gette was raised a Texan by his father, who was a Fort Worth native. As a U.S. Air Force family, they saw the world, but always returned to their Texas roots. The Gettes settled in San Angelo upon his father’s retirement.

Gette graduated from Angelo State University in 1968 as a Millard Cope Scholar with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. He served four years in the U.S. Air Force and is a Vietnam-era veteran. He completed his master’s degree in management at the University of Arkansas in 1974; he returned to San Angelo to serve as assistant to the publisher at the San Angelo Standard-Times.

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In 1975, Gette joined Bell Helicopter Textron of Fort Worth. He managed the company’s public relations and community relations programs in Tehran, Iran. He spent more than 10 years at Bell, becoming the manager of advertising and sales promotions. He established Exhibition Services Inc., in 1985, which specialized in managing aviation exhibits for international air shows.

In his first year at the institute, Gette rebuilt the administration, adding new directors or expanding executives’ responsibilities in key areas. Gette hired Craig Stinson as director of advancement in June, Lupita Barrera as director of education and interpretation in August, and Bryan Howard as director of exhibits and public programs in November. Aaron Parks, formerly director of marketing, became chief operations officer, This experience helped Gette earn a project director and Texas Folklife Festival director Jo Ann Andera’s position for 1991’s very successful Soviet Space Exhibit duties were expanded to oversee festivals, facility at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History. rentals and special events.

Gette then managed a Catherine the Great exhibit for the Dallas Historical Society. He continued to gain As UTSA strives to become a national research museum and project management experience as the university, Gette has worked to align the institute’s director of operations at the Sixth Floor Museum at mission and set a goal to become a museum of equal Dealey Plaza in Dallas from1997 to 1999 and as the caliber. Acceptance into the Smithsonian Affiliations chief operating officer at the Dallas Museum of Natural program is part of this effort. As the institute begins History from 1999 to 2003. to update its content, it can draw on the resources of the Smithsonian, including artifacts, educational In March 2004, Gette became executive director of the programs, training opportunities and expert speakers.

Virginia Museum of Natural History in Martinsville, Va. He The drive to improve the visitor experience has led to launched a capital campaign to construct a new facility a master planning process that will define how the and move the museum from its original location, which institute serves the community. was a converted schoolhouse. Attendance increased dramatically after the opening of the new museum, Gette’s short-term goals include completing the which then attracted visitors not only from Virginia but American Association of Museums’ accreditation also from many neighboring states and foreign countries. process and increasing the amount of programming at the ITC to attract more visitors and members. In After John L. Davis retired from the Institute of Texan the long term, he hopes to expand the institute’s Cultures in 2008, UTSA finalized its candidate selection reach across the nation, revisiting traveling exhibit for executive director at the Institute of Texan Cultures. development, expanding video conferencing capaWith the capital campaign completed in Virginia, Gette bilities and increasing online presence, all to tell the seized the opportunity to return to Texas. stories of Texans throughout the state and nation.

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Portfolio:

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The Art of Bill Thompson

By Leigh Baldwin Photo of Bill Thompson by Dana Fossett

A

rtist Bill Thompson is known for his vibrant, nearly pulsating mixed-media renditions of psychedelic landscapes, moody interiors and famous icons of San Antonio architecture. After quickly making a name for himself post-college with commissions from Trinity University, a NIOSA poster and several local and national gallery shows, Thompson has become an internationally sought-after artist who still remains close to his Texas connections. Recently back in town from his home in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Thompson sat down with On The Town Ezine.com at Cappy’s Restaurant in Alamo Heights for a quick update.

Cappy Lawton is one of Thompson’s oldest friends and supporters, helping discover him as an undergraduate at Trinity. Despite early recognition for his art, Thompson completed a bachelor of arts degree in history and went on to study law at Campbell University.

“My first real work was of the Trinity chapel window – I’ve always been influenced by cloisonné and stained glass,” Thompson said.

The work started to attract the eye of local collectors, including Lawton. By 1990, even on the eve of his law career, he was being offered every young artist’s dream March-April 2010 | On The Town 81

– curated shows at art galleries. “I thought it would be a good way to pay for law school,” he said with a laugh. He went so far as to pass the bar and accept a position at a law firm, but the offers for commissions and exhibitions kept coming in. He quit law and has been an artist full time since 1994.

Thompson spent some very successful time in New York City, the mecca of modern artists, and while grateful for his time there, didn’t feel any desire to remain. He is committed to an evolving body of work, “I want to retain a childlike innocence, the freshness of a beginner. The art world has a way of sapping that.”

He eventually found his way to the Virgin Islands, his wife’s home, and has lived and worked there for several years. The influence of the tropics on his work is evident. “One of my earliest works was in response to a Caribbean color contest, back in the early ‘90s, so the color of the islands has always been part of my art.”

On display all around us at Cappy’s was Thompson’s latest series on hollyhocks -- a spare, colorful flower.

Glancing around at the bright colors and angular lines of the works, Thompson admits the hollyhock is possibly a transitional phase for a new expression of his art. “I saw these tall, gangly, hardy flowers as a step toward a more abstract language,” Thompson said.

Portfolio FP Editorial

What began as a doodle during a Trinity art class in the late ‘90s, and morphed into an excuse for expressing color and form, is now becoming a more symbolic image for Thompson. In different permutations, the hollyhocks become satellite dishes, figures, anything but flowers. As the hollyhock breaks down, the series has moved from the literal to the figurative.

Thompson usually works on several projects at one time before committing to one path. Like three streams that run alongside each other through a valley, Thompson finds that eventually his many projects come together in the larger sea. “The need to create is like the libido,” he said. “The urge to make something is so strong, it is such a drive.” Thompson said projects reveal opportunities over time, as well as dead ends, and that the artist grows either way. Thompson feels his work is very progressive – one work leads to another, resulting in his “series” approach. “I see a creative moment as a vein of ore I will mine until it ceases to yield, then leave it alone for a very long time.”

If his work seems to have more of a cut, angular feel

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to it lately, it may be because Thompson has been branching out into set design, having completed a “really psychedelic garden of Gethsemane” for a local production of Jesus Christ Superstar, among other productions. Making the transition from 2D to 3D has had a powerful impact on his painting. He thinks more about the layers of the work and is exploring cutting and turning planes of view.

What’s next for Thompson then? “Get back to the studio, keep making work until I die,” he said with a grin.

To find out more about Bill Thompson, and to view his extensive portfolio of paintings, visit www. wbthompson-art.com.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Photo Credits: Page 50 Mission Orange Sky Mixed media on canvas, 30 x 48 in.

Portfolio FP Editorial

Page 52 (Top) Final Sunset Canvas, 24 x 30 in.

(Bottom) Casa Rio Over Bridge Canvas, 20 x 30 in.

Page 53 (Top) Arneson Yellow Sky Effect Canvas, 24 x 24 in.

(Bottom) Floral with Brown Back Chairs Canvas, 24 x 40 in.

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More

VA Visual Arts

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Art in the Garden

Albert Paley Sculpture Show at SA Botanical Garden

By Kyla McGlynn Photos Courtesy Paley Studios Archive

A

beautiful mix of steel curves and forms, sinuous piece maintains intense movement, giving off the feel yet bold, will grace the San Antonio Botanical of contained chaos. Paley created his sculptures from Garden beginning in late March.

CorTen Steel and stainless steel. The show is curated

by Bill FitzGibbons, executive director of Blue Star This Art in the Garden exhibit, which opens during Contemporary Art Center.

Contemporary Art Month, showcases the work of artist Albert Paley.

An opening reception for the Paley exhibit will be from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. March 25 with the artist present.

Known for his integration of art and architecture, Paley’s The public is welcome. Art in the Garden will be on contemporary steel sculptures will be strategically display through the fall. placed throughout the landscape of the botanical garden. The exhibit features a diverse set of steel Botanical Garden director Bob Brackman is always sculptures that curve and flow to produce abstract, excited to see works of art installed in the garden. dreamlike qualities. Ranging in height from 7 ½ feet to “The composition of Paley’s art has a wonderful, over 15 feet, and weighing 2,000-9,000 pounds, each organic quality that fits seamlessly into the garden’s March-April 2010 | On The Town 85

landscape,” he says. “Each artist brings his own creative style to Art in the Garden exhibits, but always combines the natural beauty of the garden with the excitement of outdoor contemporary structures.”

Blue Star Contemporary Art Center and the San Antonio Botanical Garden have partnered on Art in the Garden exhibits for the past five years. “We are so pleased to have Art in the Garden open during Contemporary Art Month in March,” FitzGibbons says. “The colorful spring foliage is a perfect contrast backdrop to Paley’s hardedged steel designs.”

Paley has been active as an artist for more than 30 years at his studio in Rochester, N.Y. He is the first metal sculptor to receive the coveted Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Institute of Architects, the AIA’s highest award to a non-architect.

Pieces by Paley can be found in the permanent collections of many major museums, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston, and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

Broadly published and an international lecturer, Paley received both his BFA and MFA degrees from the Tyler School of Art in Philadelphia. He received honorary doctorates from the University of Rochester in 1989, the State University of New York at Brockport in 1996, and St. Lawrence University, in Canton, N.Y., in 1997. He also holds an endowed chair at the Rochester Institute of Technology.

The San Antonio Botanical Society and Blue Star Contemporary Art Center are co-sponsoring the exhibition. Underwriting from the Russell Hill Rogers Fund for the Arts helped to make Art in the Garden possible. Blue Star Contemporary Art Center would like to thank the Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts Inc. for its generous support in exhibition funding.

A second Art in the Garden exhibit opens Oct. 14 and will feature the work of San Antonio artist George Schroeder.

The San Antonio Botanical Garden is located at 555 Funston at North New Braunfels Avenue and is operated under the auspices of the City of San Antonio Department of Parks and Recreation. The garden is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. year-round except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. For more information, call 210-829-5100 or visit www.sabot.org.

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Culinary Arts 90-98

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Jason Dady Putting the Pieces Together

By Chris Dunn Photos by Greg Harrison

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“

always looked at my career from day one--very early-even from college, as a puzzle,” Jason Dady said, leaning forward on the edge of a comfortably worn leather sofa in the cozy bar area of The Lodge Restaurant in Castle Hills. “I have this piece of the puzzle. I need the next piece of the puzzle,” he explained, reflecting on his journey to becoming a successful chef/restaurateur.

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Dady’s serious and purposeful demeanor shed some light on how someone, who looks even younger than his 33 years, had managed to become a nationally recognized chef, to own five restaurants and to have made an indelible mark on the San Antonio restaurant scene--all in less than a decade.

He has been named “Best Chef in San Antonio” by the San Antonio Current, a “Rising Star” Chef by Restaurant Hospitality (2004) and one of the “40 Under 40 Rising Stars” by the San Antonio Business Journal (2008). He has been a guest chef at the James Beard House in New York twice (2005, 2009); his first venture, The Lodge Restaurant of Castle Hills, was named “Best New American Restaurant in San Antonio by Zagat Survey (2006, 2007) and also received the AAA 4-Diamond Award (2009); his second restaurant, Bin 555 Restaurant and Wine Bar, received the AAA 3-Diamond Award (2009).

His dishes range from earthy barbecue to otherworldly French; and each of his restaurants is unique, yet somehow still uniquely Dady.

Initially enrolled in Texas Tech as a marketing and advertising major, Dady soon realized his heart was in the kitchen. “I had this underlying love for cooking, or being in the kitchen, or being around food…I was always reading Gourmet and Bon Appétit and watching cooking shows,” he said. “I knew at 19 years old what I wanted to do.”

While at Tech, Jason met his future wife, Crystal, whom he married at the age of 20. “For us, to see 20-year-old kids on a regular basis, we say what in hell were we thinking?” laughed Jason, adding, “I’m a lucky man.”

Crystal eventually gave up her career in the corporate world to take on two full-time jobs--taking care of the business side of their restaurants and being mother to their two young daughters, Jaycie and Tessa. They are expecting a third child, this time a boy. When asked what it’s like to work with a spouse, Jason responded, “It’s great…we get to see each other, and we have lunch almost every single day together.”

Jason got his first taste of the restaurant business as assistant manager for a Joe’s Crab Shack in Lubbock.

“That was probably the best 2½ years of experience I ever had in my entire career. I was 20-21 years old, managing a staff of 40 or 50 people, responsible for everything.”

After graduating from Tech with a degree in restaurant, hotel and institutional management, Jason determined that the next piece of the puzzle he needed was to hone his cooking skills, so he enrolled in the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco.

Upon graduation, he said he had his “first real cooking experience” at Stars and Bar Dining in San Francisco. “It March-April 2010 | On The Town 91

taught me to be fast, be efficient, skillful, to be able to listen to a lot of different things going on at once.”

Jason. “I like to be able to not have any real rules…the encouragement to create.”

He then took a job at Beringer Wine. “Just for food and wine pairings alone, the skill set that they gave me is priceless,” he said. “We get so many compliments about how great our wine pairings are and that is a direct result from that period.”

In 2006, the Dadys opened Bin 555, which was voted by the San Antonio Current as the Best New Restaurant in San Antonio. The menu reflects an eclectic mix of Spanish and Mediterranean (including Italian and Middle Eastern) influences.

Next, he took the job of general manager at Reata Restaurant in Fort Worth. “I had the cooking pieces of the puzzle…what I didn’t have was the financial side…So, I stepped out of the kitchen to take that position.”

Tre Tratorria followed in 2008. “I think we’ve become a little bit more French here at the Lodge. That’s why we love Tre so much, because we can do very simplistic, very simple but highly flavorful, high in acidity dishes,” said Dady. “The beets are the most popular antipasti. Never in a million years would I think that would be the case.”

As plans for his first restaurant took shape, Jason asked his brother, Jake, who was then 22 and pursuing a business degree at the University of Texas, to work with him. Jake proved to be a key piece in the Dady success story. “It’s a parallel relationship,” said Jason, pointing to the way the two brothers constantly coordinate their schedules to oversee their restaurants. “We communicate well.”

In 2001, with all the pieces in place, Jason, Crystal and Jake opened The Lodge Restaurant of Castle Hills in a refurbished mansion built in 1929 on an expansive, oakshaded property on the highest hill in the area. It became a destination restaurant: a rustic, romantic retreat in the heart of a bustling city.

The Lodge soon won national attention for its contribution to New American Cuisine. “Our philosophy of New American Cuisine is I can take influences from Italy or Spain or France or wherever and create them in a way to where it’s not really French or not as simplistic as, say, Italian--but it’s a touch more refined,” said

Two Brothers BBQ Market opened in 2009, and though it has the requisite trappings of a typical Texas barbecue joint, Dady’s influence is apparent in dishes such as the Cherry Glazed Baby Back Ribs, as well as the extensive wine list.

The Dady family’s latest venture is Restaurant Insignia at the Fairmont Hotel; Jason said he is still developing the menu. “We went from two restaurants to five in 18 months,” he said. “We never set out to do that, it was all different business opportunities that came up,” adding, “2010 for me is just to make what we have great and better.”

In his office, he keeps a 7-foot dry-erase board that lists every dish served at his restaurants. “That way when I want to create new dishes, I’m staring at all the menus,” he said.

It seems, no matter how successful Jason Dady becomes, he will always be searching for pieces of the puzzle.

Jason Dady on Pairing Food and Wine

By Chris Dunn

It’s a wonderful luxury to have a professional sommelier or chef nearby to pick the perfect wine to go with your meal. But what do you do when you’re the cook and sommelier?

“Typically, the trick that we would use would be--you taste the wine, you eat the food, you taste the wine, and the wine should taste the same before the bite and after the bite. If it doesn’t, by adjusting the salt level or the acidity level, you can almost balance that wine with that Fortunately, Jason Dady was willing to share his secret to food with anything.” making your food and wine pair as perfectly as they do at The Lodge. “Wine pairing is based off of the balancing I get it. Taste the wine, taste the food. Maybe add a of the acidity and the salt level in the food and the wine,” little salt and/or a little lemon juice to make everything says Dady. “When you find the balance between the acid balance. Then, taste the wine, taste the food, taste the and salt, the food tastes better and the wine tastes better.” wine, taste the wine…

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Pinch Pennies and Dine Well Tasty Bar Savings

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y quest to save money on incredible food at wonderful restaurants is a never-ending process. I relish the opportunity to identify new ways to enjoy the culinary arts on a budget. With that said, I want to pass along information about tasty savings that can be had in the bar. I used to think that bars at dining establishments existed solely so I could partake of an adult beverage while waiting for my table on a crowded night. They still fill that bill, but now I’ve become more aware of their bill of fare. Here’s how it happened.

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By Marlo Mason-Marie All photos courtesy of the restaurants

I was going to a musical production at the Cameo Theatre in St. Paul Square on a Friday night and wanted a bite to eat before the show. Across the street was Ruth’s Chris Steak House, a logical choice for the evening, but I wasn’t up for a full meal so I inquired about service in their Prime Bar. I slipped in just before 6:30 p.m. and happy hour was still in effect, so I took advantage of a $14 price on their Seafood Trio of Jumbo Blackened Scallop, Shrimp Remoulade and Seared Ahi Tuna. I also could have chosen a Crab Trio for the same price or Prime Sliders for $2 less. Great food, small price, I was happy. This led me to search for more of the same.

It didn’t take long until a friend mentioned a delicious happy hour discovery at Wildfish Seafood Grille on Loop 1604. Selected soups, salads and appetizers are half-price from 4-7 p.m. in the bar area. Included are Crispy Cashew Calamari, Maryland-style All Lump Crab Cake, Pacific Ahi Tartare, Shrimp and Crab Wonton Soup and Fuji Apple Salad. Right next door is Roaring Fork with still another happy hour bar offering. Here you are invited to take $4 off all soups, salads and appetizers from 4-7 p.m. A menu of 15 items is available which includes their vaunted “Big Ass” Burger. Yes, that’s its name and it’s big.

The Palm on Houston Street is another restaurant where the bar features its own menu. Called the Prime Bites menu, it consists of seven scrumptious choices ranging from $7 to $12, but on weekdays from 4:30-6:30 p.m. and from 9 p.m. to closing, all “Bites” are just $3.50 each.

During those same Prime Time hours, you can create you own Shrimp Cocktail at $2 per shrimp. Now that’s a jumbo deal!

There are obviously countless other opportunities to save on food in restaurant bars across the city and surrounding area. I’ll find most of them eventually, but for now let

me close by saying that Flemings Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar in the Quarry has a most unique approach to the situation. They have crafted a 5-6-7 menu that features five appetizers, five wines by the glass and five cocktails at $6 each until 7 p.m. in their bar. Romeo’s Italian Grill and Bar, a newcomer to the city on Loop 1604, has $5 appetizers and $5 pizzas from 3-6 p.m. weekdays.

Check Kirby’s Prime Steakhouse, too, and find more tasty savings in their bar.

It is possible to pinch pennies and dine well. I encourage you to seek savings at a restaurant bar near you.

Photo Credits: Page 94 (Left to Right) Ruth’s Chris Sliders Palm Restaurant Crab Cakes Wildfish Seafood Grille Tartare of Pacific Ahi Page 95 (Left to Right) Roaring Fork Big Ass Burger Palm Restaurant Chicken Fingers Wildfish Seafood Grille Calamari

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CA Culinary Arts

Olives Olé™

The International Olive Festival of Texas™ 2010 Story and photos

By June Hayes

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he second annual Olives Olé™ olive festival, sponsored by Les Dames d’Escoffier San Antonio Chapter, an international organization composed of women in the fields of food, wine and hospitality, is scheduled for March 27.

This highly successful event, back by popular demand, will feature 25 vendors and gourmet food and Texas wine concessions planned with genuine “foodies” in mind. Three main pavilions will showcase olive oil tastings and seminars, cooking demonstrations by Mahatma Rice spokesperson Debbie Jarmarillo, Ida Richardson of Melissa’s World Produce, and other experts from Delallo Olives, Bartello Olive Oil, health and nutrition seminars, and seminars on growing olives for personal or commercial use. There will be olive oil beauty products, presentations on Mediterranean herbs, and olive and olive oil presentations planned around entertaining ideas. New and exciting food products presented by Alon Market will be sampled.

large, three-dimensional food pyramid created from grains and other fresh products representing the Mediterranean food groups currently recommended for good health and nutrition. Experts from the American Heart Association, the San Antonio Dietetics Group, American Diabetes Association and the American Cancer Society will participate with one-on-one consultations.

Olives Ole is a GO TEXAN® event in cooperation with the Texas Department of Agriculture and the Texas Olive Oil Council and the support of the dedicated men and women engaged in expanding Texas’ role in the international olive industry.

Where: Sandy Oaks Olive Orchard, 25195 Mathis Road, near Elmendorf, Texas (20 miles south of San Antonio off Interstate 37. Take Exit 120, Hardy Road, and go left to Mathis Road, and follow the signs.

For more details, see www.olivesole.org, and www. ldeisanantonio.org.

The centerpiece of this educational and enjoyable event is the amazing olive table created by lead Tickets: Available at the gate or at area H-E-B stores. sponsor H-E-B featuring olives from around the Proceeds benefit scholarships and community world to sample and compare. There also will be a outreach programs. Ample free parking.

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Literary Arts

100-106

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Book Talk: Herbert Keyser

Author, Physician and Lecturer/Performer Story and Photo by Jasmina Wellinghoff

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r. Herbert Keyser is an obstetrician who has .loved musical theater since he was a school boy in his native Philadelphia. As a young man, he pursued a performing career throughout his college years but eventually fulfilled his parents’ wish to go to medical school. For the next 50 years, Keyser practiced medicine and wrote several books - including two on health-care topics - while indulging his interest in musicals by attending countless stage productions.

lecture/concert shows at the Josephine Theater have been well received. In addition, Keyser often offers his amusing presentations on cruise ships, where he does all the singing himself to musical tracks Butler prerecorded for him.

We chatted with Keyser just a few days before he and his wife, Barbara, were to take off for yet another cruise.

JW: Was putting this book together a labor of love for About five years ago, however, the semi-retired you? doctor reconnected with his first love in a more proactive way. He began researching the lives of the HK: Oh, absolutely! The research was so much fun. I composers and lyricists whose work had given him so bought all the published biographies I could find and much pleasure over the decades, and soon realized I would read three or four of them for each person that despite the piles of material written on many of - probably 1,500 or so pages of material – and I them, there wasn’t a single anthology that gathered would shrink all that information to a 20- to 25-page their stories in one place. So he took it upon himself biography. I tried to interview some who are still alive, to produce such a volume. The result is the handsome, like Sondheim, Jerry Herman and John Kander, but I coffee-table book Geniuses of the American Musical couldn’t get access.

Theater: The Composers and Lyricists published a few months ago by Applause Theatre and Cinema Books. JW: Did you find some of these artists particularly Though some “geniuses” are not included for lack of fascinating or intriguing? sufficient information on them, Keyser’s work is still a solid Who’s Who of the popular musical stage, from HK: They are all phenomenal in their work but their Jerome Kern, Irving Berlin and Hoagy Carmichael to lives are so different. Some are very poignant, some Leonard Bernstein, Stephen Sondheim and Andrew very sad, some are funny. Quite a few were addicted Lloyd Webber. Altogether, there are 28 biographical to drugs and alcohol, causing them to behave badly at profiles, written in a straightforward, factual manner. times; some had unhappy love lives, but all the stories were very, very interesting. Irvin Berlin was certainly But he did not stop there. Still blessed with a good amazing; he started from nothing and became so voice and considerable stage presence, Keyser also important. George Gershwin was special because adapted selected material from the book for stage he accomplished so much in such a short life. Cole performance with the help of prominent San Antonio Porter’s life was forever changed because of a horrible jazz musician Bett Butler. Their ongoing once-a-month accident (a horse fell on him). He also lived in a sham March-April 2010 | On The Town 101

marriage even though both he and his wife knew that he was a homosexual. They did love each other but in a platonic way. Richard Rodgers was apparently quite an unpleasant person, disliked by the people he worked with, and so on.

JW: Any surprises?

HK: Yes! Not a lot of people know that Johnny Mercer had a life-long love affair with Judy Garland, for instance, or that Harold Arlen’s wife was so deranged that she was in and out of mental institutions for years. Richard Rodgers and Duke Ellington were big womanizers. Another interesting fact is that a huge number of these composers and lyricists were Jewish.

In fact, almost all of them.

JW: How do you explain that?

HK: I don’t really know except perhaps that they didn’t have access to a lot of other things. Jews were limited and restricted in getting into professional schools. This was something they could do on their own and this was a place where they could make their mark, and not only in theater but in Hollywood, too, where they were starting something new and different. It also may have something to do with their culture and family lives.

They all had music at home. The families all felt that it was important to have a piano and to study music.

It was a big part of their entertainment. In many cases there wasn’t much money to do other things so the families had to entertain themselves.

JW: But a few came from fairly wealthy families.

HK: Yes, and the families did not support them in their choice of career. That was the case with Leonard Bernstein, whose father was the most important supplier of beauty products in New England at the time. He wanted his son to run the business and tried to do everything he could to stop him from going ahead in music. Later on, when Bernstein became famous, a journalist asked his father, “Is it true that you made your son’s life miserable when he was young?”

And the father’s response was, “How would I know that he would grow up to be Leonard Bernstein?”

JW: How would you define the golden age of the American musical?

When it ended, is more controversial. Different people will give different answers depending how they feel about today’s music. The type of musicals I covered in the book, pretty much ended in the 1960s with the rise of rock. But this music has held on and today we see a number of pop singers putting out albums with songs from this period which is now known as the great American song book. And cabaret singers are still singing this music.

JW: Most of the artists covered in “Geniuses” worked both on Broadway and in Hollywood, yet they are primarily known for their stage work. Why do you think that is so?

HK: It’s funny that so many of these Broadway composers had terrible failures in Hollywood and that their movies were not nearly of the same caliber as their Broadway shows. I think the business of Hollywood was very destructive to them. In the theater, they would write a show and would stay involved with it from beginning to end, working side by side with the librettist, the actors and everybody else. The composers and lyricists were right in the heart of it. In Hollywood, it was different. The producers would say to the composer: “Write six songs. That’s it. We don’t want to hear from you, we don’t want to see you anymore.” They were excluded from the sets. Some of their music was used, some was thrown out. Even when the movie was based on a Broadway musical, (the film makers) would discard some of the best songs and the composers had absolutely no say about it. They didn’t like it professionally but they liked their private lives in Hollywood. For one thing, they received much more money, and they lived pretty glamorous lives over there.

JW: Tell me about your job of entertaining cruise passengers.

HK: One year after I started writing the book, I decided I could do this on stage as well as write about it. I tried to persuade cruise ship entertainment directors to let me on board. After a lot of persuasion, they said, OK, one time only; we’ll see how it goes. And the response was so wonderful, now they have us back constantly.

They don’t pay me but my wife and I enjoy a free cruise.

I lecture only 3 or 4 times in two weeks. It’s wonderful.

JW: How many musicals have you seen in your life?

HK: It began around World War I with Jerome Kern. HK: Oh, I have no idea, but Barbara and I have saved all 102 On The Town | March-April 2010

the Playbills from plays and musicals we’ve attended both on Broadway and off Broadway, and we have shelves and shelves of them.

JW: You have had good and growing audiences for your local monthly shows. Who did the marketing?

HK: You know, when I first contacted the Josephine Theater to rent the space, they were very nice but they said to me, “Now, don’t be disappointed if only a handful of people show up.” But we went from 120 the first time to over 200 for the last one. We did send some flyers out and made some phone calls but it’s mostly word of mouth. I knew from the response I got on cruise ships that people would come. They love the stories and Bett’s music is marvelous.

JW: Let’s briefly change subjects. Back in 1993, you wrote a book titled Prescription for Disaster: Health Care in America. It seems you were ahead of the times. What were your main points?

HK: The main point was that the only way to get quality care for all is a single-payer system like in other Western countries. They need to take insurance companies out of it. But the insurance companies are not the only culprits. Doctors, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, even patients all share the blame. Still, it’s easily correctible; we need to get rid of the greed… I would like to see every (future) physician go to medical school for free and graduate debt-free. Doctors certainly need to be paid well, but I would like medicine to be a calling. If they want to become wealthy, let them be businessmen.

JW: What’s next for you?

HK: I am working on a sequel to “Geniuses” now, about the performers from the same period.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Keyser’s comments were edited slightly for clarity and space. The two remaining performance-lectures in the Geniuses of the American Musical Theater series will be at 7:30 p.m. March 1 and April 6 at the Josephine Theater, 339 W. Josephine St. Tickets are $22-$25; call 734-4646 for reservations.

Keyser’s book is available from all major booksellers.

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LA

Literary Arts

Poetry In Motion To Be Displayed On VIA Busses

By Claudia Maceo-Sharp Photo Credits:

(Top) The Farthest Home is in an Empire of Fire

by John Phillip Santos (Bottom) Time You Let Me In

by Naomi Shihab Nye

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MORE LITERARY ARTS FP EDITORIAL

he old adage claims that March comes in like a lion readership in April, officially National Poetry Month. Not and out like a lamb, but the literary winds seem to only will riders be able to enjoy the scenes of San Antonio literally but figuratively. A phone number also will be be building toward April in San Antonio instead. posted so that the poems can be heard as well.

When Wendy Barker, Assef al-Jundi, and Jim LaVillaHavelin poems coursed through the streets of the Dallas Anticipating this literary event need not be boring. area via mass transit vehicles a few Aprils ago they Prime your poetic muse with Naomi Shihab Nye’s new wondered why San Antonians, too, could not proudly book that she has edited. Time You Let Me In is her latest present “our own” authors in such a way that has resulted compilation of “25 Poets under 25.” Reviews report in Poetry On The Move due to appear this April. Dallas that these poems are “inspiring, talented, stunning, participates in the national program called Poetry In remarkable, wise … and they want you to let them in.”

Transit, sponsored by the American Academy of Poets. The cover even offers you the key.

To implement this particular program in San Antonio proved a lengthy process, so, eager to get the busses Use John Phillip Santos’ newest effort to transition from rolling as the case seems to be, Jerri Ann Jones at VIA poetry to prose. Where Places Left Unfinished at the was approached directly to begin the process that has Time of Creation (1999) wove his father’s genealogical become Poetry On The Move. After a call for submissions history and stories into the tapestry of their culture, in February, judges Rosemary Catacalos, Pablo Miguel The Farthest Home is in an Empire of Fire weaves genres Martinez, Carol Coffee Reposa and Vincent Toro selected of autobiography, history, and travel to chronicle his ten entries from a field of 200. The poets and their poems mother’s family. Available in April, take note of several will be announced at the end of March. Possibly drawing signings and celebrations to launch Santos’ creation at an increase in ridership, these poems will circulate area bookstores. through the city for the enjoyment of VIA passenger 104 On The Town | March-April 2010

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Eclectics 108-116

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Artistic Destination:

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A Journey to Boerne

By Julie Catalano Photos Courtesy of Julie Catalano and Boerne CVB

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here was a time when Boerne, Texas, didn’t get much respect. It was considered nothing more than a bedroom community of San Antonio, a diminutive wannabe that was just a pass-through on the way to “real” Hill Country towns such as Fredericksburg and Kerrville.

Those days are gone, but not forgotten. Larry Woods, president of the Boerne Convention and Visitors Bureau, admits that the small town 22 miles northwest of San Antonio “has had a little bit of an identity problem trying to figure out what it wants to be.”

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Some things are a given. Small-town charm? Check.

German heritage? Check. Texas hospitality? Check.

All that and more than 140 historic buildings have helped to make Boerne a favorite destination of frazzled urban visitors from Houston, Austin, Dallas and San Antonio looking to escape the big-city bustle.

aplenty, it’s easy to see how they came up with that approach.

So what will Boerne’s calling card be as it starts out on its next phase of growth? Says Woods, “We are really focusing on the arts, expanding on that in every way. Not just fine art, but the art of shopping, the art of cuisine and the art of relaxation.” With unique shops, fine restaurants and serenity

Boerne loves its artists. Now in its 14th year, the annual Parade of Artists on April 16-18 has become an area institution sponsored by the Boerne Area Artists Association (boerneart.com), giving their many artists and artisans a citywide venue to showcase their work. The self-guided tour map

Boerne is no stranger to the arts. They and the town have been a good fit for quite some time, says Rene Eldredge, spokesperson for the School at the Majestic Ranch, situated on the 525-acre Majestic Ranch Arts Foundation about 7 miles outside Boerne Founded in the 1840s by “free thinkers” (Germans (mraf.org). The school offers classes in ceramics, who had no religion), the town – and the crops – painting, fiber arts, jewelry, music, photography, grew at a healthy pace until world events caught woodworking and more. There are also ranch tours, up with the peaceful setting. The scrappy little workshops and summer concerts. town survived both the Great Depression and the boll weevil, and between 1940 and 1970 the area “The word we hear from our students is nearly doubled in size. The latest population figure ‘inspirational,’” Eldredge says. “The landscape and is 11,000, according to Woods, with no signs of colors are gorgeous, with always something new slowing down. and exciting to paint, draw or sculpt.”

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is available at numerous locations and takes visitors through more than 30 participating artists, galleries and studios to view an eclectic collection of artwork, jewelry, pottery, textiles and sculpture around town.

One of the newest offerings is also one of the town’s biggest success stories. Second Saturday Art and Wine, which features a collection of galleries and “other walls” spotlighting art in all media, is in its third year and has become an established part of the growing Boerne arts scene. The second Saturday of every month, visitors stroll from spot to spot on the tour, sampling complimentary wine and hors d’oeuvres, viewing the latest artistic offerings on display – and then do it all again the next month. “We’ve had a great response to this from both merchants and visitors,” Woods says.

Gathering. For antique lovers and other collectors, Boerne Market Days on March 13-14 and April 1011 guarantee you’ll find unusual treasures among the many vendors on hand.

A tiny town with big dreams, Boerne seems poised on the brink of becoming an even bigger tourist draw for those seeking the latest artistic mecca.

“We always felt that the arts played a significant role in the future of Boerne,” Woods says. “But now it’s something we’re really striving for.” He’s not kidding: Last year they were approached by a gentleman who wanted to hold a film festival similar to the one in Crested Butte. “He said New Braunfels wasn’t interested,” Woods says. “We jumped all over it.” The event debuts Sept. 24, called – what else? – “Weekend at Boerne’s.”

As the sign in the shop window says, “Watch your If antique woodworking and metalworking tools back, Fredericksburg.” are your thing – along with live country music and cowboy poetry – check out the Agricultural For more information, visitboerne.com, 830-249Heritage Museum (agmuseum.us/museum/) on 7277.

March 6 for the Chuckwagon Cook-off and Heritage

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Tourney Town at NCAA

Women’s Final Four Free Family Fun April 2-4

By Therese McDevitt Photos courtesy NCAA

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he NCAA Women’s Final Four is one of America’s most prestigious women’s championship sporting events and it returns to San Antonio and the Alamodome in April. The crowning of the national champion on Apr. 6 is the pinnacle of the experience for the student-athletes, coaches, and fans, but there are a multitude of ancillary events included in the Women’s Final Four weekend (Apr. 2 – 4) which the entire San Antonio community and visitors can enjoy.

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“The Women’s Final Four is more than three games and we encourage the San Antonio community, your many visitors from around the world, and the thousands of women’s basketball fans and coaches attending the Women’s Final Four to participate in the many interactive entertainment opportunities that will be part of ‘Tourney Town’ at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center,” said Sue Donohoe, NCAA Vice President for Division I Women’s Basketball. “San Antonio has earned

an international reputation as an outstanding host community and we believe the ‘Tourney Town’ activities will provide fans of all ages the opportunity to enjoy the excitement of the 2010 Women’s Final Four, whether or not they have a game ticket.”

The San Antonio Local Organizing Committee (SALOC), comprised of many of the area’s business and civic leaders and chaired this year by Cyndi Taylor Krier, is working with the NCAA to host the 2010 Women’s Final Four.

Tourney Town, located in Hall A of the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, will be the epicenter for all Women’s Final Four fan and community activities, featuring a “Center Stage” that will be alive with musical performances throughout the weekend. Center Stage will include free daily concerts featuring local, regional and national talent, while a deejay-hosted stage with adjacent half-court will offer fans the opportunity to take part in hoops-related games, skills competitions, and roving entertainment. This free family-oriented event will also feature food, fantastic NCAA merchandise, autograph sessions, basketball clinics, exhibits, games, and interactive displays.

There is a giving side to Tourney Town, too: the 4Kay Run/Walk (2.48 miles) will take place at 8am on Saturday, Apr. 3, starting under the HemisFair Park Arch and continuing through historic King William and along the River Walk. The 4Kay Run/Walk hydrated by vitaminwater* revive, honors the late Kay Yow, for many years the head women’s basketball coach at North Carolina State University. Proceeds from the run will benefit cancer research through the Kay Yow/WBCA Cancer Fund, which has already left a lasting legacy in San Antonio with a donation in December 2009 of $100,000.00 to the Cancer Therapy & Research Center / UT Health Science Center. Registration for the 4Kay Run/ Walk is available online at www.ncaa.finalfour.com and also on race day beginning at 7 a.m. Pre-registration cost is $20 and $25 on race day.

Hours of operation for Tourney Town are: Friday, April 2 from noon to 9:30pm; Saturday, April 3 from 10am to 11pm, and Sunday, April 4 from noon to 5pm. Details on all of the free concerts and other entertainment is available online at www.ncaa.com/finalfour.

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Picture This: Fie

Susan Reed and friend at the 2010 poster unveiling

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2009 Miss Fiesta Jessica Ramirez at San Fernando’s Mariachi Mass

2009 Fiesta Flambeau Parade participants

St. Johns Church

esta San antonio

Lutheran h Queen

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Father Garcia blessing Rey Feo LX Fernando Reyes

2009 Battle of Flowers participant showing her boots

Charro at Fiesta Charreada

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images by Jon Alonzo

Dancer at Pinatas in the barrio

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Native American Dancer at the Fiesta Pow Wow

Girls with funnel cake at Taste of New Orleans

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