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ON THE TOWN
November/December 2015
Cheryl Ladd Bihl Haus at Ten Wings of the City Majestic Hallways Our Part of Victory Bob’s Steak and Chops Culinaria Restaurant Week Plus 12 Additional Articles November/December 2015 | On The Town 1
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Features
Features Cont.
Holiday Season Offers Countless Onstage 8 Highlights: See Phantom, Mormon, Nutcracker, Rudolph, Beethoven, Pops and more
“Winds” Opens on the Mission Reach 68
If These Halls Could Talk: Touring Shows Leave Their Mark
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Wings of the City: New Exhibit Takes Flight 74 at the Garden
Cheryl Ladd: A Star in Our Midst 18
Our Part of Victory: Texans in World War II 76 On Exhibit at the Institute of Texan Cultures
Las Nuevas Tamaleras 22 Where’s The (Prime) Beef: Find it at Bob’s 46 Steak & Chop House at the Rim Duchman Family Winery: A Slice of Tuscan 50 Heaven in the Texas Hill Country San Antonio Restaurant Week: January 18-23
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Boerne’s Valeria Gives New Meaning to the 54 Farm-to-Table Concept San Antonio Cocktail Conference Returns: January 14-17
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Viva Villa Taqueria Now Open in Historic Market Square
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Bihl Haus Arts Celebrates 10th Anniversary 70
Trees of Life Exhibit Features Sculpures, 80 Paintings by Veronica Castillo and Kathy Sosa Which Fork Do I Use? 92
Departments Events Calendar
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Book Talk: Eileen Curtright, Novelist
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Out & About With Greg Harrison
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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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Cover Credits Contributors Front Cover Photo: Forever Tango Courtesy The Tobin Center
Performing Arts Cover Photo: The Book of Moorman Photo by Mathew Murphy
Events Calendar Cover Photo: The Phantom of the Opera Photo by Mathew Murphy
Mikel Allen creative director/ graphic designer
Christian Lair operations manager/ webmaster
Candace Andrews
Kay Lair
Rudy Arispe
Veronica Luna
Shana Avery
Ginger McAneerRobinson
Olivier J. Bourgoin (aka, Olivier the Wine Guy) Julie Catalano
Marilu Reyna
Thomas Duhon Vivienne Gautraux Greg Harrison staff photographer Bryan Howard
Visual Arts Cover Photo: Wind Sculptor Arne Quinze Courtesy SA River Foundation Literary Arts Cover Photo: Photo by Greg Harrison
Janine Richards Megann Pettit
Dan R. Goddard Culinary Arts Cover Photo: Photo by Greg Harrison
Susan A. Merkner copy editor
Sarah Selango Melissa Vela-Williamson Jasmina Wellinghoff
OnTheTownEzine.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 8-24
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t’s always nice to get things started off with a blockbuster, so how about a spectacular new production of The Phantom of the Opera at the Majestic? An extended run is available for all who wish to see this iconic Andrew Lloyd Webber musical. During the span of Nov. 5-10, choose from 14 per formances, including a rare Thursday matinee on opening day. The followup at the Majestic is the irreverent The Book of Mormon which takes the stage Dec. 15-20. Kinky Boots comes to this theater in late January. At the Tobin Center for the Per forming Arts, see The Intergalactic Nemesis as a part of their new Edge Series on Dec. 12 and the family-oriented Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer: The Musical from Dec. 21-24. This one is a selection from the Tobin Center Signature Series of touring Broadway shows. Look forward to The Producers from the same series after the first of the year.
Blithe Spirit at Harlequin Dinner Theatre, Bad Jews at the Sheldon Vexler, Medea at The Classic Theatre of San Antonio and Peter Pan at the Woodlawn. Before leaving local theatrical offerings, I want to mention two seasonal shows that will undoubtedly bring merriment to an afternoon or evening of theater-going. They are Las Nuevas Tamaleras in Spanglish at the Guadalupe Theater during the holidays, and Beauty and the Wurst, a special presentation at Circle Arts Theatre in New Braunfels for Wurstfest. These promise fun times. Venturing out of town a bit, A Tuna Christmas plays the Steve W. Shepherd Theater in Fredericksburg, The Odd Couple can be seen at Boerne Community Theatre, and The Foreigner is featured at Playhouse 2000 in Kerrville. Check the events calendar in this magazine for specific dates and times for these and more live theater productions.
In November and December local community theater patrons can enjoy the likes of Rock of Ages Moving to dance, the holiday season gets underway and Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story at the Cameo, A with Snow White presented by San Antonio Christmas Carol at The Playhouse San Antonio, Metropolitan Ballet Nov 7-8 at the Lila Cockrell.
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Following this is Forever Tango from the Tobin Center Dance Series Nov. 10. Many performances of The Nutcracker are next. Ballet San Antonio dances nine performances of the Pytor Ilyich Tchaikovsky masterpiece at the Tobin’s H-E-B Performance Hall on consecutive weekends, Dec. 4-6 and Dec. 10-13. Arts San Antonio presents The Nutcracker by Mejia Ballet International from Dec. 18-20 at the Lila Cockrell Theater, and Alamo City Dance Company brings its The Nutcracker to McAllister Auditorium on the San Antonio College campus Dec. 19-20. Moscow Ballet’s The Great Russian Nutcracker concludes things at the Majestic with three performances Dec. 27-28. The San Antonio Symphony is active during the last two months of the year with classical concerts on Nov. 13-14 and Nov. 20-22. First up is a program called Daphnis and Chloe featuring Ravel’s symphony of the same name. Also on that program, Stewart Copeland (drummer from Police) performs his Gamelan D’Drum. The latter weekend offers Beethoven’s Emperor with pianist Inon Barnatan. Sebastian Lang-Lessing conducts
on both occasions. On a lighter note, Akiko Fujimoto conducts the symphony for the annual Holiday Pops show Dec. 18-20. Fujimoto also takes the baton for Handel’s Messiah at Concordia Lutheran Nov. 29. Other classical concerts in November and December include pianist Rick Rowley and violinist Brian Lewis per forming Beethoven 1: Sonatas for Piano and Violin as a part of the San Antonio Piano Competition Piano Series Nov. 7 at the UIW concert hall, Zemlinsky String Quartet for San Antonio Chamber Music Society Nov. 8 at Temple Beth-El, violinist Charles Yang appearing for Arts San Antonio Nov. 10 at Ruth Taylor on the Trinity University campus and Musical Offering’s Music of Latin America at San Antonio Museum of Art Nov. 15. Not to be forgotten are Albert and Gage, presented by Fredericksburg Music Club Nov. 15 at Fredericksburg United Methodist, Intersection for Tuesday Musical Club at Laurel Heights Methodist Nov. 17 and a program called Troika from Musical Bridges Around The World at San Fernando Cathedral Dec. 6.
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In other news, so to speak, Carver Community Cultural Center presents the Robert Cray Band at the Jo Long Theatre Nov. 7, Don Williams plays the Tobin Nov. 15, and Diana Krall comes to the Majestic Nov. 17 followed by Jennifer Nettles at the same place Dec. 5.
Photo Credits
B efore I c l o s e, I ca n’t fo rget to menti on t hat 3 Re d n ec k Ten o r s C h ri stm as Sp ec -tac -y ule -lar pays a vis i t to t h e B ra u ntex Per fo r mi ng Ar t s Th eat re D e c. 4, w hi l e M i c key Gi l l ey ’s C hr istmas S h ow i s at K at h l e en C. Ca i l l o u x Th e ater in Ker r v i lle D e c. 6. S i x days l ater th e K ingston Tr i o ma k e s i t s way to th e Ca i l l o u x, and t he Br i a n S e t ze r O rch e stra ma kes bea u ti f ul m usic at th e M aj e s t ic. A few mo re n o tewo r thy shows a re The Te n Te n o rs presented by B oer ne Per fo r mi n g Ar t s at Ch a mpi o n s Au di to r i um D ec. 1 7 a nd Tran s - S ib e r i a n Orch estra presented by the H a l l m ar k C h ann el at th e AT& T Center D ec. 1 9 . Wa i t a m i n u te, th ere i s sti l l o n e more. I t ’s M an n h e i m Ste am ro l l er, D ec. 26 at th e M ajest ic.
Pages 10-11 (L-R) The Phantom of the Opera Music of the Night Photo by Matthew Murphy
Pages 8-9 The Phantom of the Opera Masquerade Photo by Alistair Muir
The Book of Mormon Photo by Joan Marcus Forever Tango Courtesy The Tobin Center Page 12 (L-R) Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer: The Musical Courtesy The Tobin Center
There you have it. There is so much to see and do in The Nutcracker November and December. Get some tickets and go!! Courtesy Ballet San Antonio
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If These Halls Could Talk… Touring shows leave their mark at the Majestic Story and Photography by Julie Catalano
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istoric theaters are magical places, and few can match the panache of the legendary 86-yearold Majestic Theatre in San Antonio. Everyone knows about the magnificent architecture, the twinkling stars in the moving “sky” above the audience, and the dazzling Broadway shows and big name performers that grace the splendid stage year after year. But only a lucky few insiders are familiar with the uniquely captivating “show” backstage. Or the famous names that pop up in the most unexpected places.
Mike Rilley, general manager of both the Majestic Theatre and the Charline McCombs Empire Theatre, graciously took OnTheTown on a behind-the-scenes tour of what seems like miles of winding underground hallways in the shared space beneath both theaters. Working our way through the green room where performers wait before making their stage entrances, and then down the stairs and around corners, Rilley talks animatedly the whole time about what’s to come, as excited as if he were seeing them for the first time instead of us.
The effect of thousands of signatures and drawings This is backstage art — a time-honored tradition of murals in on the walls — some as part of a show and some, like theaters all over the world where touring actors, musicians, Jerry Seinfeld and Cheech and Chong, in the space singers, dancers, comedians and their stage crews leave between art — is mind-boggling. Rilley’s enthusiasm is behind the proof that yes, they came, they saw, they contagious and soon we’re all nose-to-walls, calling out performed, and they have the drawings to prove it. the autographs we spot. There’s Patti LaBelle, Bob Dylan, November/December 2015 | On The Town 15
Sting, Kathy Griffin, Frankie Avalon, Jennifer Lopez, Steven Stills, Graham Nash, Luther Vandross, and on and on. And on. But the showstoppers are the colorful, captivating murals, some elegantly elaborate and others the soul of simplicity with their iconic logos. A Chorus Line and Crazy for You. Ragtime and Riverdance. Grease and The Graduate, and on and on. And on. Rilley describes the artistic process, which ranges from a timesaving stencil to painstakingly detailed drawings and paintings. “We don’t do this,” he explains. “The shows do it. Broadway shows are typically here for a week or more. There’s usually somebody with each show who’s assigned this job. Often it’s an assistant stage manager, or the prop person. They have a little tackle box or kit, and they go to work.” At first — that would be in 1990, when this tradition began with the Broadway in San Antonio series, now celebrating its 25th year — the show artists had free reign, picking a prime location to leave their mark. Now that the backstage real estate is shrinking, says Rilley, “they have to clear the location with us first. We’re running out of wall space.” The Lion King, for example, has appeared here three times and there are more than 100 people in the cast and crew. “So there are three different murals that everybody signed,” says Rilley. Creative types are not deterred by space constraints, he says, pointing to the strategically placed “tornado” from Wicked — on the ceiling. The elephant’s trunk from The King and I is painted on a working water fountain. For Seussical The Musical, the ceiling heating duct does double duty as the top hat for The Cat in the Hat. “They use every little nook and cranny.” Rilley springs ahead and springs a pop quiz. “What’s the famous phrase from Mary Poppins?” Without waiting for an answer, Rilley points proudly to a water pipe that runs the length of a hallway with one multicolored painted word: Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious. Some are groaningly clever, like the second touring company of Beauty and the Beast. Rilley compares the two. “Here’s Beauty,” he says of the first production, while moving toward the second. “And here’s Beauty with her back turned toward you—Beauty’s Back.” 16 On The Town | November/December 2015
Rilley’s favorites are the ones like Annie, where obvious thought was put into the finished product. “We have the Majestic marquee. Someone had to draw that. Then they did the whole tribute to the River Walk and the Alamo.” Rilley admits that “they were here more than a week, so they had more time to put it together.” Others are bittersweet: the cryptic autograph of (they think) George Carlin; the signature of Theodore Bikel, Broadway’s most famous Fiddler on the Roof, who had just passed two days earlier; and the ubiquitous Robert Goulet, whose instantly recognizable voice repeatedly filled the Majestic in both Camelot and South Pacific. It’s time to leave. Leave the hip-thrusting Fosse dancers, the Greek island of Mamma Mia, the Neverland of Peter Pan, and the zillions of felines from Cats, confident that if these halls could talk ... they would sing, dance, act, tell jokes, and then take a well-deserved bow.
“We don’t do this. The shows do it. Broadway shows are typically here for a week or more. There’s usually somebody with each show who’s assigned this job. Often it’s an assistant stage manager, or the prop person. They have a little tackle box or kit, and they go to work.” – Mike Rilley General Manager Majestic Theatre and Charline McCombs Empire Theatre November/December 2015 | On The Town 17
18 On The Town | November/December 2015
CHERYL LADD:
A Star In Our Midst C By Jasmina Wellinghoff
heryl Ladd’s new house is spacious, airy and full of light. It has semi-separate quarters for children and grandchildren who visit often, a gorgeous view beyond the crystalline pool, a stately library and a living/dining/kitchen setup that’s ideal for entertaining. Across a narrow passage is her memorabilia room, still in progress, where her movie and theater posters, gold records, awards and other mementos of her career will be displayed.
“The Hollywood Concert Orchestra will play Oscarwinning songs from movies – all those songs you know and love -- and it’s going to be very glamorous,” the actress said. “We will have red carpet entrances for our major donors and sponsors to show our appreciation, while impersonators of Hollywood stars will applaud them. It’s going to be a fun, fun evening.” Ladd is collaborating with Boerne Community Theatre on the impersonator project.
One reason she joined the organization is because she Where this house is may surprise you. It’s not anywhere admires the dedication of her fellow board members, near Los Angeles. Ladd and her producer/writer husband, whom she affectionately calls “the merry little band.” Brian Russell, have been residents of Boerne for the last “I really like their whole approach to what they are doing,” 2 ½ years. Yes, you read it correctly – Boerne. And, yes, Ladd said. “They are so gung-ho and hardworking for a we are talking about Cheryl Ladd of Charlie’s Angels fame. good cause. The arts inspire people on many levels and The couple relocated to be near family as Ladd’s mother lift you to a place you haven’t been before.” She also and siblings live there, and Russell’s daughter and her appreciates that Boerne Performing Arts treats visiting family live in Austin. At first people were stopping her in artists so well that famous groups are willing to tweak the grocery store with remarks like, ”You know you look their schedule to come back to Boerne. a lot like Cheryl Ladd,” but by now they know she is the real thing. One lady recently ran up to the petite actress, Boerne Performing Arts artistic chairman Greg Talford is gushing, “It’s so wonderful to have you here. I just love impressed by Ladd’s willingness to “work along with the you.” It was such a sweet greeting that the other shoppers rest of us” and do what’s needed, but he said he also is around them just looked and smiled. aware that a person of Ladd’s stature “makes people sit up and take notice.” Even the visiting artists get excited Being part of the community suits Ladd just fine. Not a when they realize that they will be meeting her. year into her Boerne life, she joined the board of Boerne Performing Arts, an all-volunteer organization that Talford also credits her for helping the board to see things brings to town outstanding shows and artists from all through the eyes of the touring artists who may be on over the world. Few small towns have an arts presenter the road for weeks and may need a little tender loving of this caliber. Since its inception in 2011, the nonprofit care. “She is passionate about the arts, she understands has brought to town shows such as the Canadian the artists, and she is a great ambassador for our violin extravaganza Bowfire; the Japanese drumming organization,” he said. ensemble TAO; the piano quintet The Five Browns; the New Shanghai Circus; the Vienna Boys Choir and others. HOLLYWOOD IS STILL PART OF HER LIFE Its 2015-16 season (see box) starts with the return of the Ladd may have become a Boerne-ite (“Is that what you call popular 10 Tenors from Australia on Dec. 17, but what us?”) but she has definitely not abandoned Hollywood. In Ladd is most excited about is the next event, A Night at fact, just the week before our interview, she was there to the Oscars, which she is slated to emcee. It may not be the work on a new Warner Bros. movie, Unforgettable, starring actual Emmys or the Golden Globes, both of which she Katherine Heigl and Rosario Dawson. “I play Katherine’s co-emceed in the past, but she is looking forward to it. mother. It’s a cameo role but the script is great, and I have November/December 2015 | On The Town 19
a couple of fabulous scenes,” said the youthful looking very first scene together. The two had never laid eyes on actress who said she is perfectly OK with portraying each other before that moment. “It was hilarious,” she said, still laughing at the memory. “You have to be flexible mothers these days. and know your character well.” Ladd also is working on a TV mini-series, American Crime Story – the People vs. O.J. Simpson, that features Cuba Ladd became a household name when she joined the Gooding as Simpson. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at cast of Charlie’s Angels in 1977 as a replacement for what went on between the prosecution and defense the departing Farrah Fawcett. But, smartly, the young teams during the trial that mesmerized the nation in actress refused to step directly into her predecessor’s 1995. “It’s getting so much attention, it’s going to be shoes. Producer Aaron Spelling eventually agreed huge,” she said. Ladd plays the wife of Robert Shapiro to accommodate her wish to become an altogether (John Travolta), one of the defense lawyers. (The series different person, Fawcett’s character’s younger sister, Kris Munroe, who would be allowed to be will be broadcast in February on cable channel FX.) funny and make mistakes. The show changed her Acting is not only Ladd’s profession but something life overnight. Though she already had a solid acting she deeply enjoys. “It’s challenging but truly fulfilling and singing resume, Charlie’s Angels turned her into to create a character and work with others to a star, and as such, an object of curiosity. “Everything collaboratively create something together, often with I did became suddenly somehow fascinating,” she people you never met,” she said. “There’s something observed wryly. “Your life is not just yours anymore. But I am grateful to the show for giving me a 35-year wonderful about joining that circus.” acting career.” As an example of the challenging situations actors may find themselves in, she recalled an experience from the Her fame may be due to television, yet on a personal set of the 1986 mini-series Crossings. She and actor Lee level the actress experienced a sense of deepest Horsley were asked to make love in the shower for their accomplishment while performing Annie Get Your 20 On The Town | November/December 2015
Gun on Broadway. Having a live audience was “electrifying,” she said, and she was able to return to her first love – singing. Every evening, as she made her stage entrance, she said a prayer of gratitude for playing the lead in the iconic musical. Still, the run “almost killed” her. Annie is on stage throughout the performance, sings seven songs per show, and there were eight performances per week, a taxing schedule that went on for six months. In person, Ladd is friendly and gracious. Her good looks are an excellent example of the recent saying: “60 is the new 40.” She’s been happily married to Russell for almost 35 years, though she kept the surname of her first husband, David Ladd, the son of Alan Ladd, with whom she had a daughter. Russell has recently written a novel, Scribe, which features a married Hollywood couple similar to the Russells.
BOERNE PERFORMING ARTS SEASON The Ten Tenors Home for the Holidays December 17 The Hollywood Concert Orchestra A Night at the Oscars February 6 TAO Seventeen Samurai February 25 The New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players The Pirates of Penzance April 8
So, what is the “secret” of their lasting union, a rarity in Hollywood circles? All performances at 7:30pm at Boerne Champion Auditorium “We still have a childlike enthusiasm and excitement For more information: 830-331-9079 about life,” she said. “To be married to someone like www.boerneperformingarts.com that is an amazing gift.” November/December 2015 | On The Town 21
Alicia Mena
Patricia Zamora
LAS NUEVAS TAMALERAS RETURNS TO GUADALUPE THEATER By Marilu Reyna
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hat constitutes tradition – if you do it for more than one year, or for more than 20 years? Either way, the hilarious one-act play Las Nuevas Tamaleras is a full-fledged holiday tradition in San Antonio.
personal with the actors on the stage, which has a set many say is reminiscent of their own family kitchen. The front row has the distinction of being “the masa splash-zone.” According to tamale-making folklore, only one pair of hands can touch the masa. So when one of the characters vies for the privilege to have For more than 20 years Alicia Mena’s heartfelt and her hands in the masa, she realizes the process was comical theatrical production has opened the day more than she bargained for and complains it’s a after Thanksgiving to sold-out audiences, many “real workout.” As the actor emulates -- and of course of whom come back year after year to share the exaggerates -- the masa preparation process, the experience with family, co-workers and friends. gooey concoction flies through the air and sometimes lands on the spectators in front, making them feel like For many patrons, the goal is to get up close and they are in the kitchen with the cast. 22 On The Town | November/December 2015
Ruby Nelda Perez These unique and quirky scenes are what make Las Nuevas Tamaleras special and result in hundreds of fans returning yearly. As the play looks at three Latinas holding their first tamalada in an attempt to make tamales for the Christmas holiday, people see themselves on stage, or maybe they see their aunt or grandmother, someone who may have been their inspiration in the kitchen.
returned for few performances in 2014 but this year she will perform in all shows. Mena, the play’s author and director, will perform the role of Doña Mercedes. When the two veteran actors are on stage, the chemistry is evident, and they don’t skip a beat. Patricia Zamora, a newcomer to the cast, plays the uptight, borderline neurotic Sylvia. Sonia Rodriguez, who been in the show since its early days, is back to play the boisterous Josie. Kristina Keller of Houston plays Patsy, the sassy party girl who wears too much bling and 6-inch stilettos and is more interested in taking selfies than in making tamales.
Another component that connec ts the audience wit h th e p l ay e ve r y yea r i s th e vetera n tamalera “a n g e ls” t h at co me dow n f ro m h eaven af ter St. Pe te r h e ars t h em express h ow mu ch t hey mi ssed t h i s b e l oved h o l i day tra di ti o n. They ne ve r a p p e ar to t he wo men i n th e k i tchen b ut the y d o to t h e au di en ce, prov i di n g a comic al Performances of Las Nuevas Tamaleras are at 8 p.m. mi x o f b il in g u al b a nter. Friday and Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday from Nov. 27 through Dec. 13 at the Guadalupe Theater, 1301 This year audiences will enjoy the return of Ruby Guadalupe St. Nelda Perez, the actress who originally portrayed Doña Juanita when the play premiered. Perez For information: guadalupeculturalarts.org.
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November/December 2015 Events Calendar Music Notes Victoria Sanabria with OrquestaTrabuko featuring Raices de Arte Espanol 11/1, Sun @ 1pm Aztec Theatre
Pusifer: Money Shot Tour 11/5, Thu @ 7:30pm H-E-B Performance Hall at the Tobin Center Aaron Lewis 11/6, Fri @ 7pm (doors open) Cowboys Dancehall
San Antonio International Piano Competition Piano Series Beethoven 1: Sonatas for Piano And Violin 11/7, Sat @ 8pm Brian Lewis, violin Rick Rowley, piano Concert Hall at University of the Incarnate Word
The Psychedelic Furs 11/10, Tue @ 7pm Aztec Theatre
Juan Gabriel 11/12, Thu @ 8pm AT&T Center
Art San Antonio Presents Charles Yang, violin 11/10, Tue @ 7:30pm Ruth Taylor Recital Hall Trinity University
San Antonio Symphony Halloween Spooktacular Dia de los Muertos 11/1, Sun @ 3pm H-E-B Performance Hall at the Tobin Center
Fort Sam Houston Jazz Paul Taylor and Euge Groove 11/6, Fri @ 7pm Fort Sam Houston Theater
Carver Community Cultural Center Presents Robert Cray Band 11/7, Sat @ 8pm Jo Long Theatre @ The Carver
Ricky Nelson Remembered Performed by Gunnar and Mathew Nelson 11/1, Sun @ 7pm Carlos Alvarez Studio Theater at the Tobin Center
Los Lonely Boys 11/6, Fri @ 8pm Gruene Hall
Midland 11/7, Sat @ 8pm Luckenbach Dancehall
Wagon Aces 11/6, Fri @ 8pm Luckenbach Dancehall
Hot Texas Swing Band 11/7, Sat @ 8pm Twin Sisters Dancehall
San Antonio Symphony Valero Classics Series Daphnis and Chloe 11/13-14, Fri-Sat @ 8pm Sebastian Lang-Lessing, conductor H-E-B Performance Hall at the Tobin Center
Bart Crow 11/6, Fri @ 9pm John T. Floore Country Store
Reckless Kelley 11/7, Sat @ 9pm Gruene Hall
Ray Wylie Hubbard 11/13, Fri @ 8pm Luckenbach Dancehall
Sunday Jazz at the Witte Regency Jazz Band 11/8, Sun @ 3pm Witte Museum San Antonio Chamber Music Society Zemlinsky String Quartet 11/8, Sun @ 3:15pm Temple Beth-El
Cactus Country 11/13, Fri @ 8pm Leon Springs Dancehall
Encore Performance Series Austin Lounge Lizards 11/4, Wed @ 7:30pm Performing Arts Center Recital Hall Texas State University San Marcos Iration: Hotting Up Tour 11/5, Thu @ 7pm Aztec Theatre
Guest Artist Series Ye-Eun Kwat, piano 11/7, Sat @ 6pm Performing Arts Center Recital Hall Texas State University San Marcos
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Merle Haggard 11/13, Fri @ 8:15pm John T. Floore Country Store
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Turnpike Troubadours 11/14, Sat @ 4:30pm John T. Floore Country Store A Night at the Opry 11/14, Sat @ 7:30pm Fredericksburg Theater Company Steve W. Shepherd Theater Fredericksburg Texas Rebellion 11/14, Sat @ 8pm Luckenbach Dancehall John Christopher Way 11/14, Sat @ 8pm Kendalia Halle Glen Collins & The Alibis 11/14, Sat @ 8pm Leon Springs Dancehall Musical Offerings Music of Latin America 11/15, Sun @ 3pm San Antonio Museum of Art Fredericksburg Music Club Albert and Gage 11/15, Sun @ 3pm Fredericksburg United Methodist Don Williams 11/15, Sun @ 7pm H-E-B Performance Hall at the Tobin Center Tuesday Musical Club Intersection 11/17, Tue @ 2pm Laurel Heights United Methodist
Hot Topic Presents The AP Tour featuring Mayday Parade 11/17, Tue @ 5:30pm Aztec Theatre Diana Krall 11/17, Tue @ 7:30pm Majestic Theatre International Concert Series Harvey Pittel, saxophone 11/17, Tue @ 7:30pm Performing Arts Center Recital Hall Texas State University San Marcos JD McPherson 11/19, Thu @ 8pm Gruene Hall Kip Moore 11/20, Fri @ 7pm (doors open) Cowboys Dancehall The Merles 11/20, Fri @ 8pm Luckenbach Dancehall San Antonio Symphony Beethoven’s Emperor 11/20-22, Fri-Sat @ 8pm Sun @ 3pm Sebastian Lang-Lessing, conductor Inon Barnatan, piano H-E-B Performance Hall at the Tobin Center David Allen Coe 11/20, Fri @ 9pm John T. Floore Country Store
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The Sentimental Journey Orchestra: Stage Door Canteen 11/21-22, Sat @ 2:30pm & 8pm Sun @ 2pm Fredericksburg Theater Company Steve W. Shepherd Theater Fredericksburg Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlan 11/21, Sat @ 7:30pm Lila Cockrell Theater Star Spangled Cabaret Lone Star Lyric Salutes America 11/21, Sat @ 7:30pm Brauntex Performing Arts Theatre New Braunfels Tommy Immanuel 11/21, Sat @ 8pm Charline McCombs Empire Theatre Collective Soul: The See What You Started Tour 11/21, Sat @ 8pm Aztec Theatre Mike Ryan 11/21, Sat @ 9pm John T. Floore Country Store Thomas Michael Riley 11/21, Sat @ 9pm Luckenbach Dancehall Rodney Carrington 11/22, Sun @ 5pm & 8pm Paul Poag Theatre Del Rio
Newsboys featuring Hawk Nelson and Ryan Stevenson 11/22, Sun @ 7pm Laurie Auditorium at Trinity University Dale Watson 11/25, Wed @ 8pm Luckenbach Dancehall Cheap Trick 11/27, Fri @ 8pm Majestic Theatre Hayes Carll 11/27, Fri @ 8pm Gruene Hall Almost Patsy Cline Band 11/27, Fri @ 8pm Luckenbach Dancehall Reckless Kelly 11/27, Fri @ 8:30pm John T. Floore Country Store Alejandro Fernandez 11/27, Fri @ 9pm Freeman Coliseum The Noise Presents Parkway Drive-IRE Tour 2015 11/28, Sat @ 6pm Aztec Theatre Cole Swindell: Down Home Tour 11/28, Sat @ 7pm (doors open) Cowboys Dancehall
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Jody Nix 11/28, Sat @ 8pm Leon Springs Dancehall Roger Creager 11/28, Sat @ 9pm Luckenbach Dancehall Jon Wolfe 11/28, Sat @ 9pm John T. Floore Country Store William Clark Green 11/28, Sat @ 9pm Gruene Hall San Antonio Symphony Handel’s Messiah 11/29, Sun @ 3pm Akiko Fujimoto, conductor Concordia Lutheran First Fine Arts Series UTSA Chamber Singers 12/1, Tue @ 3pm First Baptist Church The Arts at Coker Russell and Sylvia Miller, doublering handbells 12/2, Wed @ 12pm Coker United Methodist Symphony of the Hills Peace on Earth 12/3, Thu @ 7:30pm Dr. Eugene Dowdy, conductor Kathleen C. Cailloux Theater Kerrville
3 Redneck Tenors Christmas Spec-Tac-Yule-Ar 12/4, Fri @ 7:30pm Brauntex Performing Arts Theatre New Braunfels Wagon Aces 12/4, Fri @ 8pm Luckenbach Dancehall Gary P. Nunn 12/4, Fri @ 9pm John T. Floore Country Store The Noise Presents Between The Buried and Me 12/5, Sat @ 6pm Aztec Theatre The 4 Proches: The Road Less Traveled 12/5, Sat @ 7:30pm Fredericksburg Theater Company Steve W. Shepherd Theater Fredericksburg Jennifer Nettles 12/5, Sat @ 8pm Majestic Theatre Uncle Lucius 12/5, Sat @ 8pm Luckenbach Dancehall Mickey Gilley Christmas 12/6, Sun @ 3pm Kathleen C. Cailloux Theater Kerrville
30 On The Town | November/December 2015
Musical Bridges Around The World Troika 12/6, Sun @ 6:30pm San Fernando Cathedral
Jason Boland & The Stragglers 12/11, Fri @ 9pm John T. Floore Country Store
Children’s Chorus of San Antonio Frost and Fire 12/6, Sun @ 7:30pm H-E-B Performance Hall at The Tobin
Jerry Jeff Walker 12/11-12, Fri-Sat @ 9pm Gruene Hall
Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox 12/6, Sun @ 8pm Charline McCombs Empire Theatre First Fine Arts Series Matthew Dunn, guitar 12/8, Tue @ 3pm First Baptist Church Conspirare Christmas 12/8, Tue @ 7:30pm H-E-B Performance Hall at the Tobin Center The Arts at Coker Valerie Thompson, organ 12/9, Wed @ 12pm Coker United Methodist An Evening with Machine Head 12/9, Wed @ 7pm Aztec Theatre Jim Brickman 12/10, Thu @ 7:30pm Charline McCombs Empire Theatre Max Stalling 12/11, Fri @ 8pm Luckenbach Dancehall
Christmas at First 12/12-13, Sat @ 5pm Sun @ 5:30pm & 7:15pm First Baptist Church Cailloux Performance Series The Kingston Trio 12/12, Sat @ 7:30pm Kathleen C. Cailloux Theater Kerrville The Brian Setzer Orchestra 12/12, Sat @ 8pm Majestic Theatre Carver Community Cultural Center Presents The Jones Family Singers 12/12, Sat @ 8pm Jo Long Theatre @ The Carver John Evans Band 12/12, Sat @ 8pm Luckenbach Dancehall TwoTen Empire Series: Deer Vibes 12/12, Sat @ 9pm Charline McCombs Empire Theatre
Mid-Texas Symphony Concert 3 12/13, Sun @ 4pm David Mairs, conductor Jackson Auditorium Seguin
The Arts at Coker Christmas Pops Family Concert 12/13, Sun @ 6:30pm David M. Collett and Duane D. Hoff, conductors Coker United Methodist
KRTU 91.7FM Jazz at The Tobin Christian Scott 12/13, Sun @ 7pm Carlos Alvarez Studio Theatre at The Tobin Center First Fine Arts Series Linda Poetschke, soprano 12/15, Tue @ 3pm First Baptist Church The Arts at Coker Matt Rogers, chapman stick 12/16, Wed @ 12pm Coker United Methodist
Hinder 12/16, Wed @ 7pm Aztec Theatre Boerne Performing Arts The Ten Tenors 12/17, Thu @ 7:30pm Boerne Champion Auditorium San Antonio Symphony H-E-B Pops Holiday Pops 12/18-20, Fri-Sat @ 8pm Akiko Fujimoto, conductor Sun @ 2pm H-E-B Performance Hall at the Tobin Center
Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue 12/18, Fri @ 8pm Gruene Hall Hallmark Channel Presents Trans-Siberian Orchestra 12/19, Sat @ 3pm & 8pm AT&T Center Branson On The Road Christmas Style 12/19, Sat @ 7:30pm Brauntex Performing Arts Theatre New Braunfels
November/December 2015 | On The Town 31
San Antonio Chamber Choir A Venetian Christmas 12/19, Sat @ 7:30pm Immaculate Conception Chapel at Oblate School of Theology 12/20, Sun @ 3pm St. John’s Lutheran Church Gary P. Nunn 12/19, Sat @ 8pm Luckenbach Dancehall Charlie Robison 12/19, Sat @ 9pm John T. Floore Country Store Holiday Saxaphones 12/20, Sun @ 7pm Guadalupe Theatre First Fine Arts Series Illumen 12/22, Tue @ 3pm First Baptist Church 5th Annual Two Ton Tuesday Christmas Show 12/22, Tue @ 8:30pm Gruene Hall The English Brother’s Cowboy Christmas 12/22-23, Tue-Wed @ 7:30pm Fredericksburg Theater Company Steve W. Shepherd Theater Fredericksburg Mannheim Steamroller Christmas 12/26, Sat @ 8pm Majestic Theatre
Mario Flores & The Soda Creek Band 12/26, Sat @ 9pm John T. Floore Country Store Better Than Ezra 12/28, Mon @ 7pm Aztec Theatre Thomas Michael Riley 12/31, Thu @ 8pm Luckenbach Dancehall Dale Watson 12/31, Thu @ 8pm Kendalia Halle
Live Theater Our Town 11/1, Sun @ 2pm Fredericksburg Theater Company Steve W. Shepherd Theater Fredericksburg Green Day’s American Idiot 11/1, Sun @ 3pm Woodlawn Theatre The Music Man 11/1, Sun @ 3pm Russell Hill Rogers Theatre at The Playhouse San Antonio Disney’s Alice in Wonderland 11/1, Sun @ 4:30pm Cameo Theatre
32 On The Town | November/December 2015
Bride of Cthulhu 11/1, Sun @ 7pm 11/5-7, Thu-Fri @ 8pm Overtime Theater All-Star Video 11/1, Sun @ 7pm 11/5-8, Thu-Sat @ 8pm Sun @ 2:30pm 11/13-14, Fri-Sat @ 8pm 11/19-21, Thu-Sat @ 8pm Overtime Theater North Park Lexus Majestic Broadway Series The Phantom of the Opera (touring) 11/5, Thu @ 2pm & 7:30pm 11/6-15, Tue-Thu @ 7:30pm Fri @ 8pm Sat @ 2pm & 8pm Sun @ 2pm & 7:30pm Majestic Theatre Playhouse 2000 The Foreigner 11/5-8, Thu-Sat @ 7:30pm Sun @ 2:30pm 11/13-15, Fri-Sat @ 7:30pm Sun @ 2:30pm VK Garage Theater Kerrville Bad Jews 11/5-14, Thu @ 7:30pm Sat @ 8pm Sun @ 2:30pm (no shows Fridays ) Sheldon Vexler Theatre Blithe Spirit 11/5-14, Thu-Sat @ 6:15 (dinner), 8pm (show) Harlequin Dinner Theatre
Beauty and The Wurst 11/6-15, Mon-Sun (Wurstfest presentation – check theater for show times) Circle Arts Theatre New Braunfels Rock of Ages 11/7-8, Sat @ 7:30pm Sun @ 4:30pm 11/13-29, Fri-Sat @ 8pm Sun @ 4:30pm Cameo Theatre Rocky Horror Show 11/7, Sat @ 10:30pm Cameo Theatre Arts San Antonio ZooZoo Imago Theatre 11/8, Sun @ 7:30pm Aztec Theatre Attic Rep Presents Pinocchio 11/11-22, Wed-St @ 8pm Sun @ 2:30pm Carlos Alvarez Studio Theater at the Tobin Center Threepenny Opera 11/13-15, Fri-Sat @ 8pm Sun @ 2:30pm 11/18-21, Wed-Thu @ 7pm Fri-Sat @ 8pm Jane and Arthur Stieren Theater at Trinity University The Odd Couple 11/13-28, Thu @ 7:30pm Fri-Sat @ 8pm Sun @ 2:30pm (No show Thu-11/26) Boerne Community Theatre
The Wimberley Players Other Desert Cities 11/13-12/6 Fri-Sat @ 7:30pm Sun @ 2:30pm Wimberley Playhouise
Chaps! A Jingle Jangle Christmas 11/20-29, Fri-Sat @ 7:30pm Sun @ 2pm 12/3-5, Thu-Sat @ 7:30pm Elizabeth Huth Coates Indoor Theatre -Ingram
Elf: The Musical 11/21-12/26, Sat @ 2pm 12/21-23 Mon-Wed @ 7:30pm Cameo Theatre Peter Pan 11/27-12/19, Fri-Sat @ 7:30pm Sun @ 3pm 12/20, Sun @ 3pm & 7:30pm 12/21-23, Mon-Wed @ 7:30pm Woodlawn Theatre
Tinsel Town 11/27-12/19, Thu-Sat @ 6:15 (dinner), 8pm (show) 12/26, Sat @ 6:15 (dinner), 8pm (show) Harlequin Dinner Theatre
Las Nuevas Tamaleras 11/28-12/7, Fri-Sat @ 8pm Sun @ 3pm 12/12-14, Fri-Sat @ 8pm Sun @ 2pm Guadalupe Theatre
A Christmas Carol 12/3-20, Thu-Sat @ 8pm Sun @ 3pm 12/21, Mon @ 8pm Russell Hill Rogers Theatre at The Playhouse San Antonio Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story 12/5-20, Fri-Sat @ 8pm Sun @ 4:30pm 12/26-27, Sat @ 8pm Sun @ 4:30pm 12/31-1/3, Thu-Sat @ 8pm Sun @ 4:30pm Cameo Theatre
November/December 2015 | On The Town 33
Medea 11/6-29, Fri-Sat @ 8pm Sun @ 3pm The Classic Theatre of San Antonio A Tuna Christmas 12/11-20, Fri-Sat @ 7:30pm Sun @ 2pm Fredericksburg Theater Company Steve W. Shepherd Theater Fredericksburg Tobin Center Edge Series The Intergalactic Nemesis (touring) 12/12, Sat @ 4pm & 8pm Carlos Alvarez Studio Theater at the Tobin Center North Park Lexus Majestic Broadway Series The Book of Mormon (touring) 12/15-20, Tue-Thu @ 7:30pm Fri @ 8pm Sat @ 2pm & 8pm Sun @ 2pm & 7:30pm Majestic Theatre
34 On The Town | November/December 2015
The Company Theater Scrooge on the Riverwalk! 12/19, Sat @ TBD Arneson River Theater Alamo Vaudeville Season 2 12/19, Sat @ 8pm Carlos Alvarez Studio Theater at the Tobin Center Tobin Center Signature Series Presented by BMW of San Antonio Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer速 The Musical (touring) 12/21-24, Mon @ 7pm Tue @ 2pm Wed @ 2pm & 7pm Thu @ 2pm H-E-B Performance Hall at the Tobin Center
Opera
The Company Theatre Merry Christmas, George Bailey! 12/17, Thu @ 6pm (dinner) 7:30pm (show) The Dinnerbox Series @Little Italy
Scenes UTSA Lyric Theatre 11/30, Mon @ 7:30pm Recital Hall @ UTSA
The Company Theatre Bah Humbug! A One-Man Christmas Carol 12/18, Fri @ TBD Dickens on Main in Boerne
Snow White presented by San Antonio Metropolitan Ballet 11/7-8, Sat @ 7pm Sun @ 2:30pm Lila Cockrell Theater
Dance
Tobin Center Dance Series Forever Tango 11/10, Tue @ 7:30pm H-E-B Performance Hall at the Tobin Center Ballet San Antonio The Nutcracker 12/4-6, Fri @ 7:30pm Sat @ 2pm & 7:30pm Sun @ 2pm 12/10-13, Thu-Fri @ 7:30pm Sat @ 2pm & 7:30pm Sun @ 2pm H-E-B Performance Hall at the Tobin Center Ballet New Braunfels The Nutcracker 12/11-12, Fri @ 7pm Sat @ 1pm & 7pm Brauntex Theatre for the Performing Arts Quenedit Ballet Nutcracker 12/12-13, Sat @ 7:30pm Sun @ 2pm Lila Cockrell Theater Arts San Antonio Presents The Nutcracker by Mejia Ballet International 12/18-20, Fri @ 7:30pm Sat @ 2pm & 7:30pm Sun @ 2pm Lila Cockrell Theater
Alamo City Dance Company The Nutcracker 12/19-20, Sat @ 2pm & 6pm Sun @ 1pm McAllister Auditorium @ San Antonio College Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker 12/27-28, Sun @ 1pm & 5pm Mon @ 7pm Majestic Theatre
Comedy Hypnotist Gary Conrad 11/1, Sun @ 8pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club Big Ed Blake 11/1, Sun @ 8:30pm Rivercenter Comedy Club Andy Beningo 11/4, Wed @ 8pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club Mike Robles Comedy All-Stars 11/4, Wed @ 8:30pm Rivercenter Comedy Club Ryan Hamilton 11/5-7, Thu @ 8pm Fri-Sat @ 8pm & 10:15pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club November/December 2015 | On The Town 35
Felipe Esparza 11/5-8, Thu & Sun @ 8pm Fri-Sat @ 8pm & 10:30pm Rivercenter Comedy Club
Jo Jo Jorge Falcon 11/20, Fri @ 9pm Majestic Theatre
Andy Beningo 11/8, Sun @ 8pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club
Jesse Pangelinan and Friends 11/25, Wed @ 8pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club
David Beck 11/11-15, Wed-Thu & Sun @ 8:30pm Fri-Sat @ 8:30pm & 10:30pm Rivercenter Comedy Club Del Shores: SINgulary Sordid 11/14, Sat @ 8pm Woodlawn Theatre Bruce Bruce 11/13-15, Fri-Sat @ 8pm & 10:15pm Sun @ 8pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club Quinn Dahle 11/18-22, Wed-Thu & Sun @ 8:30pm Fri-Sat @ 8:30pm & 10:30pm Rivercenter Comedy Club
Jay LaFarr and Friends 11/25, Wed @ 8:30pm Rivercenter Comedy Club Lisa Landry 11/27-29, Fri-Sat @ 8pm & 10:15pm Sun @ 8pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club Scott White 11/27-29, Fri-Sat @ 8:30pm & 10:30pm Sun @ 8:30pm Rivercenter Comedy Club Alex Ansel 12/2-3, Wed-Thu @ 8pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club
Last Comic Standing Live Tour 2015 11/19, Thu @ 7:30pm H-E-B Performance Hall at the Tobin Center
The Anthony Torino Experience 12/2-6, Wed-Thu & Sun @ 8:30pm Fri-Sat @ 8:30pm & 10:30pm Rivercenter Comedy Club
Bryan Callen 11/20-22, Fri-Sat @ 8pm & 10:15pm Sun @ 8pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club
Pablo Francisco 12/4-6, Fri-Sat @ 8pm & 10:15pm Sun @ 8pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club
36 On The Town | November/December 2015
Danny Ingle and Friends 12/9-10, Wed-Thu @ 8pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club Billy D. Washington 12/9-13, Wed-Thu & Sun @ 8:30pm Fri-Sat @ 8:30pm & 10:30pm Rivercenter Comedy Club Rod Man 12/11-13, Fri-Sat @ 8pm & 10:15pm Sun @ 8pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club Mike Suarez and Friends 12/16-17, Wed-Thu @ 8pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club Tim Young 12/16-20, Wed-Thu & Sun @ 8:30pm Fri-Sat @ 8:30pm & 10:30pm Rivercenter Comedy Club Jo Koy 12/18-20, Fri-Sat @ 8pm & 10:15pm Sun @ 8pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club Chris Fonseca 12/25-27, Fri-Sat @ 8:30pm & 10:30pm Sun @ 8:30pm Rivercenter Comedy Club Matt Holt 12/30, Wed @ 8pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club
Tom Rhodes 12/31, Thu @ 8pm & 10:15pm Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club Willie Barcena 12/31, Thu @ 8pm & 10:15pm Rivercenter Comedy Club
Children’s Red 11/1, Sun @ 2pm 11/4-8, Wed-Fri @ 2pm Sat-Sun @ 2pm Magic Theatre Children’s Fine Arts Series Room on the Broom by Tall Stories Theatre Co. 11/17, Tue @ 11am Carlos Alvarez Studio Theatre at the Tobin Center A Charlie Brown Christmas 11/20-22, Fri @ 9:45am Sat-Sun @ 2pm 11/24-25. Tu @ 9:45am Wed @ 11:30am 11/28-29, Sat-Sun @ 2pm 12/1-6, Tue-Thu @ 9:45am Fri @ 11:30am Sat-Sun @ 2pm 12/8-13, Tue-Fri @ 9:45am Sat-Sun @ 2pm 11/15-20, Tue-Fri @ 9:45am Sat @ 7pm Sun @ 2pm 12/21-23, Mon-Wed @ 9:45am 12/26-27, Sat-Sun @ 2pm 12/28-30, Mon-Wed @ 11:30am Magik Children’s Theatre
Veggietales Live! Little Kids Do Big Things 11/27, Fri @ 2pm &6pm H-E-B Performance Hall at the Tobin Center
Exhibitions
Hudson Showroom Luz Maria Sanchez Now thru 1/3
Territory Featuring Jeffrey Brosk Now thru 1/8
Window Works Cruz Ortiz Now thru 1/3
BIHL HAUS ARTS
ARTPACE
BLUE STAR CONTEMPORARY ART MUSEUM
Fall 2015 Artists in Residence Cally Spooner Marie Lorenz Larry Bamburg Curated by Cecilia Alemani 11/12-1/3
Narrative Axis Featuring Joey Fauerso, Tatiana Istomina, Patte Loper, Matt Neff, Mona Sharma, Adam Shecter, Naho Tarushi & Arturs Virtmanis Now thru 11/8
Ten: Bihl Haus Arts Tenth Anniversary Celebration Now thru 12/19 BRISCOE WESTERN ART MUSEUM The Cowboy Returns: Photographs by Bank and John Langmore Now thru 11/29
Briscoe Book Club “Mink River by Brian Doyle 11/3, Tue @ Time 5:30pm Briscoe Book Club “Wild” by Cheryl Strayed 12/1, Tue @ Time 5:30pm INSTITUTE OF TEXAN CULTURES Los Tejanos Now on view Faces of Survival Now thru 11/15
November/December 2015 | On The Town 37
Our Part of Victory Now thru 12/7 Sikhs: Legacy of the Punjab Now thru 1/3 LINDA PACE FOUNDATION Immersed An exhibition of works from the Linda Pace Foundation Collection Now thru 2/27 Adam (Public Artwork) By Arturo Herrera 25’ h x 98’ w, Frost Bank Garage Commerce at Main Now thru 12/2016 McNAY ART MUSEUM American Modern Works from the Collection of Alice C. Simkins Now thru 12/6 Miro: The Experience of Seeing Now thru 1/10 Martin Gutierrez: Transcending Rhythm Now thru 1/10 Picasso, Braque, and the Cubist Legacy: Prints and Drawings from the Collection Now thru 1/24
Studio to Stage: Dega’s Little Dancer / Seurat’s Sunday Afternoon Now thru 1/31 Art History Goes to the Theatre: Research Secrets of Great Designers Now thru 1/31 The Extraordinary Ordinary: Three Installations Now thru 4/10 Stephan Westfall: The Holy Forest Now thru 7/31 Collecting in Context 12/16-4/17 SAN ANTONIO BOTANICAL GARDEN Scarecrow Trail Exhibit Now thru 11/15 Big Garden, Little Me Now thru 12/31 One Way Trail-Art in the Garden 2015 (In conjunction with Blue Star Contemporary Art Center) Now thru 1/31 Wings of the City Now thru 2/14 Holidays in Bloom 11/27-12/31
38 On The Town | November/December 2015
SAN ANTONIO MUSEUM OF ART
TEXAS A&M CENTRO DE ARTES
28 Chinese Now thru 1/3
Veronica Castillo & Kathy Sosa Trees of Life: Cultura, Tradicion e Innovacion Now thru 1/24
Realms of Earth and Sky: Indian Painting from the 15th to the 19th Century 11/6-2/14 SOUTHWEST SCHOOL OF ART Jayne Lawrence: Contact Now thru 11/8 Stephanie Liner: Momentos of a Doomed Construct Now thru 11/8 Harvey Wang: From Darkroom To Daylight Now thru11/8 Anthony Francis: Real Lyric Now thru 11/8 Hannah Driess and Nemo / Dia de Los Muertos Altar: La Ofrenda Now thru 11/8 Dennis Smith & Friends / Formed: A Survey of Ceramics 11/22-1/24 Christa Blackwood / A Dot Red (The Ballad of Irrelevant Histories) 11/22-1/24
WITTE MUSEUM Bodies Revealed Now thru 1/31 The Wests of Texas: Cattle Ranching Entrepreneurs Now on display at the Russell Hill Rogers Texas Art Gallery
Miscellaneous Spy: The Exhibit Now thru 5/31 Rivercenter Fashion Week San Antonio 11/1-8, various venues – go to www.fashionsa.org for information Global Perspectives: Democracies in Crisis Lecture with Dr. Eva Balogh 11/2, Tue @ 7:30pm Schuech Fine Arts Center Texas Lutheran University Seguin
Criss Angel’s The Supernaturalists 11/3-4, Tue-Wed @ 7:30pm H-E-B Performance Hall at the Tobin Center
America’s Got Talent Live: The All-Star Tour! 11/9, Mon @ 7:30pm H-E-B Performance Hall at the Tobin Center
SPS Public Lecture: NASA Flight Director Ginger Kerrick 11/5, Thu @ 5pm Schuech Fine Arts Center Texas Lutheran University Seguin
Housecore Horror Festival 11/13-15, Fri-Sun @ 5pm Aztec Theatre
Light The Way 11/21, Sat @ 7:30pm Gayle and Tom Benson Stadium University of the Incarnate Word
H-E-B Free Cinema of the Plaza Naco Libre 11/13, Fri @ 8pm River Walk Plaza at the Tobin Center
Ford Holiday River Parade and Lighting Ceremony 11/27, Fri @ 7pm Arneson River Theatre on the River Walk
Wurstfest 11/6-15, Landa Park New Braunfels
Diwali San Antonio 11/14, Sat / 5-10pm La Villita
Dickens on Main 11/27-28, Fri-Sat 1pm-11pm Downtown Boerne Zoo Lights Holiday Nights 11/27-1/3 San Antonio Zoo Holidays in Bloom 11/27-12/31, daily / 9a-5pm San Antonio Botanical Garden
November/December 2015 | On The Town 39
An Evening with Ken Burns 12/2, Wed @ 7:30pm Laurie Auditorium Trinity University Ford Holiday Boat Caroling 12/2-20, nightly / 6:158:30pm River Walk Kim Russo The Happy Medium 12/3, Thu @ 7:30pm Carlos Alvarez Studio Theater at the Tobin Center Ford Fiesta de las Luminarias 12/4-20, nightly River Walk Humana Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon 12/5, Sat @ 9am (10K) 12/6, Sun @ 7:30am (Marathon) Alamodome Tamales! At The Pearl 12/5, Sat @ 12pm The Pearl Complex H-E-B Free Cinema of the Plaza Elf 12/11, Fri @ 8pm River Walk Plaza at the Tobin Center Winter Arts & Crafts Show 12/11-13, Fri-Sun / 11am11pm River Walk
Celebrate San Antonio 12/31-1/1/16 HemisFair Park / La Villita S. Alamo between Durango and Market
Coming Soon Majestic Theatre Kinky Boots (touring) 1/26-31 Jerry Seinfeld 2/5 Dancing with the Stars Live 2/6 San Antonio Symphony Presents: Raiders of the Lost Ark 2/19-20 Riverdance: The 20th Anniversary Tour 2/26-28 Tobin Center for the Performing Arts The Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular 1/9
From Bernstein to Piazzolla 2/5-6
The Shanghai Quartet with Wu Man 2/28
Bravo Broadway 2/26-27
Laurel Heights Methodist
Joshua Bell 2/2 Ballet San Antonio Peter Pan 2/12-14 Vikki Carr featuring Mariachi Aztlan 2/20 Late Night Catechism: Las Vegas 2/25-28 AT&T Center Madonna 1/10 Janet Jackson 2/21 Def Leppard 2/2 San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo 2/11-28
Tuesday Musical Club David Portillo 2/23 UIW Concert Hall San Antonio International Piano Competition Piano Series Beethoven 2: Sonatas for Piano and Violin 2/13 Boerne Champions Auditorium Boerne Performing Arts The Hollywood Concert Orchestra A Night at the Oscars 2/6 TAO: Seventeen Samurai 2/25
Freeman Coliseum
Photo Credits:
Janeane Garofalo 1/10
Sesame Street Live 2/6-7
Page 26 (L-R)
The Producers (touring) 1/13
Jo Long Theatre
Aaron Lewis Courtesy aaronlewismusic. com
San Antonio Symphony Rhapsody in Blue 1/15-17 American Cello Concerto 1/22-23 Barber Violin Concerto 1/29-30
40 On The Town | November/December 2015
Monterrey Jazz 1/23 Temple Beth-El San Antonio Chamber Music Society Gryphon Trio 1/24
Los Lonely Boys Courtesy loslonelyboys. com Bart Crow Courtesy liveatfloores.com
November/December 2015 | On The Town 41
Brian Lewis Photo by Devon Cass Page 28 (L-R) Reckless Kelly Courtesy liveatfloores.com Charles Yang Courtesy charlesyangmusic.co Sebastian Lang-Lessing Photo by Marks Moore Ray Wylie Hubbard Courtesy raywylie.com Page 30 (L-R) Merle Haggard Courtesy liveatfloores.com Joan Christenson Courtesy Musicalofferings.org Albert and Gage Photo by Todd V. Wolfson Don Williams Courtesy don-williams.com
Jon Wolfe Courtesy liveatfloores.com William Clarke Green Courtesy liveatfloores.com Page 33 (L-R) Akiko Fujimoto Photo by Eric Green 3 Redneck Tenors Courtesy 3rednecktenors. com Gary P. Nunn Courtesy garypnunn.cm Mickey Gilley Courtesy gilleys.com Page 34 (L-R)
Page 31 (L-R)
Bryan Callen Courtesy Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club
Diana Krall Courtesy dianakrall.com
Felipe Esparza Courtesy felipesworld.com
Inon Barnatan Photo by Marco Borggreve
Page 35 (L-R)
Tommy Emmanuel Photo courtesy Empire Theatre Dale Watson Courtesy liveatfloores.com Page 32 (L-R) Almost Patsy Cline Band Courtesy liveatfloores.com
42 On The Town | November/December 2015
Roger Creager Courtesy rogercreager. com
Max Stalling Courtesy maxstalling.com Jerry Jeff Walker Courtesy jerryjeff.com Page 36 (L-R) The Brian Setzer Orchestra Courtesy Majestic Theate
David Mairs Courtesy Mid-Texas Symphony
Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer: The Musical Courtesy The Tobin Center
Linda Poetschke Courtesy utsa.edu
Billy D. Washington Rivercenter Comedy Club
Trans-Siberian Orchestra Courtesy trans-siberian. com Page 37 (L-R) Charlie Robison Courtesy charlierobison. com Mario Flores Courtesy liveatfloores.com
Eliza Skinner Courtesy Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club Page 40 (L-R) Rod Man Courtesy Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club
Two Tons of Steel Courtesy twotons.net
Lisa Landry Courtesy Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club
Troy Peters Courtesy Youth Orchestras of San Antonio
Brandon Rhyder Courtesy liveatfloores.com
Page 38 (L-R)
Kyle Park Courtesy liveatfloores.com
The Phantom of the Opera Photo by Mathew Murphy
Page 42 (L-R)
Las Nuevas Tamaleras Courtesy tamaleras.com
Kinky Boots Photo by
The Book of Mormon Photo by Joan Marcus
TAO: Seventeen Samurai Courtesy Boerne Performing Arts
The Book of Mormon Photo by Joan Marcus
Page 43 (L-R)
Page 39 (L-R)
Joshua Bell Courtesy joshuabell.com
The Intergalactic Nemesis Courtesy The Tobin Center
Vikki Carr Courtesy vikkicarr.com November/December 2015 | On The Town 43
44 On The Town | November/December 2015
Culinary Arts 46-66
November/December 2015 | On The Town 45
Patrick Bean General Manager Bob’s Steak House 46 On The Town&| Chop November/December 2015
Where’s the (Prime) Beef? Find it at Bob’s Steak & Chop House at The Rim By Rudy Arispe Photography by Greg Harrison
W
.hen it comes to selecting a steakhouse, Bob’s Steak & Chop House knows that diners have options, which is why they want you to know one important factor that sets their establishment apart from the rest. “We’re serving USDA Prime beef exclusively, which frankly is a point of distinction from other restaurants in our segment,” general manager Patrick Bean said. “USDA Prime beef is the top 2 to 3 percent of beef graded domestically. The best analogy is if you have 100 cows, only three are prime and 97 are less than prime. We serve wetaged, Midwest, corn-fed Prime beef, which is the very best we can get our hands on.”
The Best of Award of Excellence honors restaurants whose wine lists typically offer 350 or more selections along with superior presentation, and display either vintage depth with several vertical offerings of top wines or excellent breadth across several wine regions. “We’ve had a lot of fun assembling our wine selection during the last two years,” said Bean, a San Antonio native who has led local restaurants for more than 20 years. “We have wines from every major wine growing region of the world at every possible price point, from $40 to $400 and even $4,000 a bottle. We can definitely find the perfect wine for you.” Chef Derek Lomax’s culinary talents also were honored, when food aficionados chose Bob’s as the 2014 winner of the March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction, which is the nonprofit’s annual premier fundraiser. “The Signature Chefs event brings out the best of the best in San Antonio,” the general manager said. “Last year was our first year to participate. The fans vote on their favorite item and chef Derek won.”
The restaurant is the namesake of Bob Sambol, who opened the original location in Dallas in 1993. After a popular Dallas magazine ranked Bob’s No. 1 among all other steakhouses there, the restaurant quickly became a favorite of Dallas Cowboys coaches and players, among others. The buzz quickly spread about the top-notch food, drinks and service. This led to the opening of other locations throughout Texas and the country, including the San Antonio Lomax brings more than 23 years of experience to restaurant, which opened two years ago at The Rim. Bob’s. With a background in management, catering, corporate and fine dining, Lomax has a proven Bob’s San Antonio location has wasted no time record of working with a staff of culinary experts to getting on the map of the Alamo City’s flourishing produce outstanding fare and even better results. culinary scene. For the second consecutive year, Wine Spectator magazine recognized Bob’s with the “I’ve always liked to cook and did it as a hobby,” “Best of Award of Excellence” for its 575-selection Lomax said. “I began to take it seriously as something wine list. Bob’s is one of only two establishments in I could do full time when I started working for a San Antonio to win this award and one of 31 in Texas. local restaurant years ago. I love the satisfaction of November/December 2015 | On The Town 47
planning for and pleasing guests. And our Prime steak is the best quality of beef you’ll ever have. Once people try it, they’ll keep coming back.” As guests enter Bob’s, they notice the eclectic décor with its distinctly styled rooms that evoke the feeling and atmosphere of a traditional American steakhouse. For instance, the Flag Room features authentic U.S. flags, from a 13-star Colonial flag to a huge 38-star Centennial flag near the bar, all the way to a 1912 edition of a 48-star flag. The Golf Room, on the other hand, is adorned with vintage Texas golf pictures featuring legends such as Ben Crenshaw, Tom Kite and Justin Leonard, among others; while the San Antonio Room spotlights the city’s better known landmarks through the lens of local photographer Al Rendon. These include the new Museum Reach extension of the River Walk, the Tower of the Americas and muskets being fired in front of the Alamo. With the holidays fast approaching, Bob’s private events manager, Kim Boxx, is happy to help arrange corporate dinners and private parties for small to large groups. After 18 years as a senior marketing representative with Frost Bank, she decided to pursue her passion for culinary arts and recently joined the team at Bob’s. “I’ve always had a love of cooking,” said Boxx, who earned an associate’s degree in culinary arts from St. Philip’s College in 2012. “I feel like the right job has come along, and it’s going to be a blast.” Bob’s Steak & Chop House combines simple elegance, a lively atmosphere, big drinks, fine wines and large cuts of the finest steaks, chops and seafood. For more information: 210-222-2627 or bobssteakandchop.com/locations/san-antonio.
48 On The Town | November/December 2015
November/December 2015 | On The Town 49
DUCHMAN FAMILY WINERY: A slice of Tuscan heaven in the Texas Hill Country By Olivier J. Bourgoin, aka ‘Olivier, the Wine Guy’
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ne of the major gripes you’ll hear people mention about Texas wines is the lamented fact that much of what is produced in the Lone Star State is not grown here. Duchman (pronounced Duk-Man) is proud, as their company slogan professes, to be making Texas wines from Texas-grown grapes – 100 percent, every last drop. Located in Driftwood, the winery opened in 2006. It was born from a business plan drafted in 2004 by Houston cardiologist Dr. Stanley Mathias Duchman and his wife, Lisa, who is a nonpracticing doctor of optometry. The winery is their baby. They are rightfully proud of their product and of what they and their team 50 On The Town | November/December 2015
have accomplished in just under a decade. After years of trial and error, most Texas wineries conclude that certain grape varietals just don’t do well in the rugged Texas climate and the state’s less than ideal soil conditions. Duchman is among the wineries that have begun to promote aggressively the cultivation of specific varietals that seem to thrive in these parts. Working with some of the leading grape growers in the state, winemaker Dave Reilly uses his knowledge and expertise to select some of the best grapes to produce world-class wines, bringing forward the character
of the grape varietals selected, as well as desirable elements of the Texas terroir from which they hail. In addition, the winery makes a wine called Alliance from grapes grown on about three acres of land onsite.
“Aglianico has a special place in my heart,” Ogle said. “For such young grapes, they surprise me every year, producing a wine that is very complex and delicious. We are very proud of our 100-percent-Texas-grapes production.”
Most of the varietals favored by Duchman Winery originally hail from Italy: Aglianico, Dolcetto, Montepulciano, Sangiovese, Trebbiano and Vermentino. Some Viognier, a grape native to France’s Rhone Valley, along with a limited amount of Spanish Tempranillo round out Duchman’s vitis vinifera catalog.
Although the winery does not have a restaurant on premises, there is one nearby: Trattoria Lisina, which is owned by Damian Mandola, founder of the Carraba’s Italian Grill chain and a partner in the winery until 2010. As noted on the company website: “Duchman Family Winery is a slice of Tuscan heaven in the Texas Hill Country.”
The Texas High Plains American Viticultural Area (AVA) provides the bulk of the fruit used at Duchman Duchman Family Winery Winery, which produces 18,000 to 20,000 cases of 13308 Farm to Market 150 wine annually. Driftwood, Texas 78619 Open seven days a week. Noon to 6 p.m. Duchman general manager Jeffrey Ogle joined the Monday. 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday winery three years ago from the restaurant industry, 512-858-1470 where he worked as a wine buyer. DuchmanWines.com.
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San Antonio Restaurant Week: January 18-23 By Ginger McAneer Robison Photography Veronica Luna
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.hen the last holiday gathering is complete, the décor is put away, and the new year is in full swing, Culinaria offers one more thing for which to be thankful: San Antonio Restaurant Week. The second winter edition will take place in restaurants across San Antonio and the surrounding area Jan. 18-23.
Week offers attendees the chance to meet on their own time during the designated week to dine at a participating restaurant.
“Restaurant Week is the biggest thing that we do as it appeals to anyone and everyone who enjoys dining out or wants to celebrate a special occasion at a restaurant,” said Suzanne Taranto-Etheredge, San Antonio Restaurant Week continues to grow president and CEO of Culinaria. with more participating restaurants and more guests. Unlike other Culinaria events where San Antonio Restaurant Week takes some of the attendees gather in one location, Restaurant guesswork out of dining out but leaves patrons Balfour 52 Jeff On The Town | November/December 2015
plenty of options when selecting where to dine during the promotion. It’s a chance to visit an old favorite restaurant or to check out a new one. To participate in Restaurant Week, restaurants must select one of two tiers to offer guests along with three courses. Tier one is a $15 lunch and $35 dinner; tier two is a $10 lunch and $25 dinner. Culinaria also posts the participating restaurants and their menus at CulinariaSA.org as they are received.
January. Besides being a source of education for new and emerging produce technology, the Urban Farm also will demonstrate sustainability for children, families and anyone with a desire to learn more about a farm-to-table diet.
Culinaria also helps support the San Antonio community by providing funding for industry scholarships to the Culinary Institute of America in San Antonio and to the Conrad N. Hilton College For participating restaurants, more guests are of Hotel and Restaurant Management. served during what otherwise may be a slow period. The businesses also give back to Culinaria: Other events in 2016 will include the Culinaria 5K For each lunch purchased, restaurants return $1 Wine and Beer Run on March 19 at the Shops at to Culinaria and the causes it supports; for each La Cantera. Last year, the group added an expo to the Packet Pick-up, which takes place March 18, dinner, $2 is donated. the day before the 5K run. The Culinaria Festival As a nonprofit organization, Culinaria uses San returns May 19-22. Antonio Restaurant Week donations to help establish the Culinaria Urban Farm and Event For information: call 210-822-9555 or visit Center. Groundbreaking for the farm is set for CulinariaSA.org.
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Keith Kuhn Chef-Owner
Boerne’s Valeria gives new meaning to the farm-to-table concept By Olivier J. Bourgoin, aka. Olivier the Wine Guy Photography Harrison 56 On The Town |Greg November/December 2015
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n all foodie circles across the land, the term ‘Farm to Table’ has gained a lot of traction in recent years. Many restaurants have been riding this wave of popularity to position themselves favorably with health and nature conscious consumers. Although there are numerous establishments that fit the ‘Farm to Table’ bill, few are as dedicated to the concept as Valeria’s.
“Today my preferences have shifted a bit toward Spanish wines. I still love the French and Italians but I think there is great value to be found in Spain.” Having experienced a tremendous amount of growth, in a relatively short amount of time, the ‘Serendipity’ needed a cash infusion in order to sustain its growth. That’s when Keith Kuhn came-up with the perfect exit strategy; one that would eventually bring him back to his first love: food.
Located in an otherwise, nondescript shopping center off the main highway leading into Boerne from I-H 10, Valeria opened its doors to favorable reviews, last February. Since Because of TABC regulations, one is prohibited from any then, the new eatery has received numerous accolades for ownership at the same time in businesses that sell alcohol to the public and in businesses that sell alcohol to those its approach to healthy eating. businesses. After securing the future of his first baby by The man behind the concept is Keith Kuhn. Although he means of finding a private investment group to buy into grew-up in San Antonio where he attended Keystone Serendipity; and after removing himself from ownership Academy, which famed Chef Andrew Weissman also in that business, Keith Kuhn was free to start the restaurant attended at that time. It has often been said that traveling he had dreamed about for years. the world in one’s youth is both formative and beneficial. Such was obviously the case for both individuals “Buying the farm was a focus of mine because I have long advocated a diet free of GMO’s and Trans-Fats.” Said mentioned above. Kuhn, over a lunch of Braised all natural grass-fed beef tips “We sold our house in Monte Vista in the Fall of 2013 and prepared in a ‘Mongolian Beef’ style. moved to Boerne where we bought a farm nearby, just a couple miles West of here. I’m proud of the fact that we “We are very serious about our commitment to serve only are truly using many ingredients in our cooking, that come natural or organic products.” Said Kuhn. “He added: “In straight from our own farm (Kuhn Family Farm), as well as fact, we make all our suppliers sign a statement that there from local producers such as ‘Heritage Ranch Beef’ and are no GMO’s feed in the chain. And of course, we grow ‘Hudspeth Lamb”. Said Kuhn in a recent interview. “We also our own Tomatoes, Zucchinis, Eggplants, Cucumbers and use ‘Augustus Beef’ from near Shiner for grass-fed tender all the herbs, Mint, Sage, Rosemary, Basil and in season, Lettuce, Arugula, Chicory, Broccoli.” fillets.” He added. Keith Kuhn developed an early passion for food and wine. In his case, his travels led him to work in and around the kitchens of some fine restaurants, first at “La Table D’Anvers’ in Paris; near ‘Pigalle’ in ’92, then in London at ‘The Ark in ’93 and ’94 and finally in San Francisco in the late ’90’s where he became acquainted with the late Lorenzo Petroni, cofounder of the renowned ‘North Beach’ Italian restaurant and of Petroni Vineyards in Sonoma.
With obvious passion, Kuhn continued: “We also raise our own goats, and chicken for eggs. And now we are processing our own pigs. We have four different breeds at the farm. ‘Red Wattle’ and Berkshire which are English. Another one called ‘Large Black’” Said Kuhn
But the one Kuhn talked about the most is a breed from Austria-Hungary called ‘Magalitsa’. It has only been imported to the U.S since 2007. It was known as the ’Royal After meeting his wife and business partner, Kristin (she Pig’ because over the centuries it was served to European goes by Kristy), Keith settled back in San Antonio. That’s royalty. Its meat produces the richest marbling with an when the proverbial creative wheels really started turning. exquisite taste and unlike most pork meat, a deep red color - almost as red as beef. A decade ago, Keith and Kristy Kuhn started a wine distributorship called ‘Serendipity Wines’; on a shoestring. Asked to describe the type of food one can expect to find on his menu, Kuhn explained: “My idol is Jacques “I always wanted to open a restaurant but my love of wine Pépin. I am going to be featuring some dishes directly - and especially my appreciation for French and Italian inspired by him and will give him full credit. But we want wines at the time - was very strong, as well. At the time, to be known as a multicultural culinary center. We don’t we deliberated about it for a while and we decided that want to get pigeonholed into a specific style of cuisine. opening a wine distributorship would involve a lesser Instead we offer dishes representing many countries with amount of cash investment. We were wrong!” Explained influence from Chinese, Vietnamese, Mexican, a Moroccan Tagine, a Greek Moussaka, a French Cassoulet, Italian with Kuhn with a chuckle. November/December September/October 2015 | On The Town 57
homemade pasta and Lasagna and of course our great Pizzas cooked in an all wood-fired Italian oven. I also think we serve the most authentic Spanish Paella in the State of Texas.” Said Kuhn. …Giving credit to well made Paella he added: ”Well maybe restaurant ‘Fino’ in Austin also makes an authentic Paella.” He added: “We also want to be known as an excellent Shrimp house. Even our shrimp is wild-caught and bought directly from ‘Day Boaters’ in the Gulf. It is common for some fishermen to keep their catch in Tripolysulfate or Sodium Bisulfite for days after it is caught - as a preservative - but not ours.” Quipped Kuhn. Try the simply fresh and delicious Sautéed Shrimp in a White Wine Sauce which I did; or the Fried Shrimp Platter or the Shrimp Valeria which is lightly floured in egg batter, sautéed and then finished in a White Wine and Beurre Blanc Sauce and lightly drizzled with Parmesan. “It kind of reminds me of the original ‘Shrimp Paesano’”. Reminisced Kuhn. Chef David B. Yokuty who is a graduate of Chicago’s Kendall Culinary Arts Institute, originally hails from Saginaw Michigan. After moving first to Houston, Chef Yokuty came to San Antonio, where he honed his skills at Guy Collinet’s ‘Café Europa’ on Blanco Road (where TOST is currently located). Yokuty also worked at the now defunct ‘Boardwalk Bistro’ on Broadway. Asked what he loves cooking best, Yokuty replied: “People have been asking me this same question for years and I always say the same thing: ‘everything’. As long as there are fresh ingredients and quality proteins available, I really don’t have a preference.” I then asked him what are his favorite dishes on the current menu? Keith Kuhn jumped-in: “He is always good with the Crab Cakes.”Chef Yokuty followed: “I like the ‘Lobster Napoleon’. It’s served poached, with white wine and garlic and rested on a bed of mixed greens and homemade potato bread, tomato, avocado and lemon zest plus Buffalo Mozzarella Cheese.” Chef Yokuty also said: “I like working here with Chef Keith. Two Chefs working together. Its a beautiful thing that we can park our egos and find a way to co-exist and talk to each other and make beautiful food together in a convivial atmosphere.” If you’re wondering how the name ‘Valeria’ was chosen, it’s based on the first name of the Kuhn’s eldest daughter Valerie. “Valerie enjoys helping out in the front of the house,” said Kuhn. “She was really excited to see her name on the sign when we first opened.” He added. Valeria Farm to Table Restaurant: 109 Waterview Pkwy, Ste 105, Boerne, TX 78006 / 830- 331-1393. Hours of operation: 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Tue - Sat. www.valeriarestaurant.com 58 On The Town | November/December 2015
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San Antonio Cocktail Conference Returns Jan. 14-17 Fifth annual event draws international experts, national cocktail enthusiasts Story and photography courtesy San Antonio Cocktail Conference
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he San Antonio Cocktail Conference is back for Children’s Shelter, ChildSafe, HeartGift, and Transplants its fifth year, and promises to be more exciting for Children, and recipients for 2016 will be awarded than ever. Just like good tequila, the Cocktail following the conference. Conference is only getting better with age. The roster of past bartenders is impressive. Featured This year’s conference, Jan. 14-17, includes an extra day of bartenders and mixologists have included Michael imbibing, eating, and playing. Similar to years previous, Madrusan (The Everleigh, Melbourne), Dushan Zaric and top bartenders, cocktail aficionados and newcomers alike Jason Kosmas (Employees Only, New York), and Brian come together for guided tastings, parties, educational McCullough (The Standard Pour, Dallas). seminars, and paired dinners all benefitting Houston Street Charities and children’s causes. The event schedule, which will be released in late fall, is expected to be jam-packed with pairings, tastings For Mark Bohanan — the Cocktail Conference and seminars, and promises to be a lively experience as creator, owner of Bohanan’s Prime Steaks & Seafood, always. At the end of the day, the San Antonio Cocktail and a respected leader in the city’s food scene — as Conference offers a unique opportunity to learn from well as for industry participants, this year’s event is the best, taste delicious handcrafted cocktails, and dine particularly poignant. A heartfelt toast will be raised with industry pros, all while contributing to an important to SACC cofounder Sasha Petraske, best known for cause while having good old-fashioned fun. Tickets go revitalizing craft cocktail culture at his exceptional on sale to the public Nov. 15. bars such as Milk & Honey in New York City, who passed away this year. The San Antonio event has been named “one of the top three cocktail festivals in the country” by Fodor’s. With one hundred percent of profits going to charity, Houston Street Charities and Bohanan’s already have For tickets and information: donated more than $350,000 to save children’s lives. wwwsanantoniococktailconference.com or Recipients of funds from SACC 2015 included the www.facebook.com/SACocktail Conference. November/December 2015 | On The Town 61
Viva Villa Taquería Now Open in Historic Market Square By Melissa Vela-Williamson / Megann Pettit Photography courtesy Viva Villa Taqueria
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..he Cortez Family has opened their fourth restaurant, Viva Villa Taquería, in the city’s historic Market Square. Viva Villa, the family’s first fast casual restaurant, features a chef-inspired menu featuring more than 30 tacos along with craft beer and wine, Big Red soft serve and much more.
revolutionary. The restaurant touts “revolutionary tacos” and puts the “custom” back into customer by letting each person design their own meal. Customers select from three categories of tacos: “cazuelas”, “mercado” or “mini-street tacos” and are able to create numerous types of tacos.
Viva Villa lives up to its namesake, Pancho Villa, as Viva Villa is open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner the restaurant’s food and service are nothing short of where customers can grab-and-go or sit down to enjoy 62 On The Town | November/December 2015
the restaurant’s free Wi-Fi. The fast casual restaurant will serve local customers with local food delivery services and will offer a drink to-go program so patrons can stroll around El Mercado with margaritas in hand or take their craft beer home in a refillable 64-ounce growler.
tradition began to Mi Tierra Café in San Antonio, but her passion for cooking has taken her across the country. She is expanding her family’s legacy with the infusion of education from the Culinary Institute of America and from notable chefs such as Rick Bayless. Cortez returned to Texas to share her true passion for authentic Mexican cuisine and continue the family tradition. A profound care for food, family and culture inspired her custom menu creation and the evolutionary concept development of Viva Villa.
Although Viva Villa is the family’s newest restaurant in San Antonio, it grew from historical roots. Its 110-yearold brick building incorporates the original brick work in a space modernized to comfortably seat 75 people inside and 70 people outside. Complete with a giant pop-art mural of Pancho Villa, distressed leather booths -----------------------------------------------------------------------and mango wood imported from Costa Rica, Viva Villa’s ambiance is nothing short of urban revolution. Established in 1941, MTC Inc. is a family-owned company consisting of four restaurants located in the historic Market Viva Villa’s old-meets-new concept is largely influenced Square area. The Cortez Family of Restaurants includes Mi by Chef and General Manager Cariño Cortez. Tierra Café y Panaderia with its adjacent Mariachi Bar, La Margarita Restaurant & Marisco Bar, Restaurante Pico de Cortez is a third-generation foodie who grew up in Gallo and its fourth concept, Viva Villa Taquería. For more the Cortez family’s restaurant business. Her family information, visit www.mitierracafe.com.
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Visual Arts
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‘WIND’ OPENS ON THE MISSION REACH By Shana Avery Photography Courtesy San Antonio River Foundation
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elgian artist Arne Quinze was commissioned by the San Antonio River Foundation to design the sculpture Wind for the Mission San Juan portal on the Mission Reach. The stunning permanent installation opened to the public in October. The installation consists of eight abstract Cor-Ten steel sculptures representing trees, graduating from untreated steel to full “auto-detailed” color, and reaching up to 27 feet tall. The sculpture is located along the west bank of the Mission Reach segment of the San Antonio River, just north of the Mission Road bridge. The installation helps announce visitors arriving at Mission San Juan from the river as well as those departing from the site.
on the recurring themes of social interaction, communication and urbanism. What drives him is “the belief in the possible realization of an idealistic society, wherein all individuals communicate and interact,” he said. In every culture Quinze encounters, he unravels physical processes, drawing inspiration from what he calls the “overwhelming optimism of our humanity.” In his urban vision, communal activities flourish and social cohesion is the norm – he aims to bring people together and push them into a vigorous dialogue. His installations are built to provoke reaction and to intervene in the daily life of passersby confronted with his work.
Always seeking inspiration from the direct Quinze was born in Belgium in 1971 and lives environment in which his work is placed, Quinze and works in Sint-Martens-Latem, Belgium, and designed Wind to connect and draw attention to Shanghai, China. Quinze began working as a graffiti the unique flora that characterizes the San Antonio artist in the 1980s, but never completed a formal area. His multi-dimensional sculpture references art education. He has been creating sculptures, abstract connections to the mesquite, small oaks drawings, paintings and large-scale public and pecan trees native to the area. The installation’s color scheme of is a blend of Quinze’s signature installations worldwide for over two decades. fluorescent red-orange and a mixture of pinks, For Quinze, every city is an open-air museum. blues and purples referencing local wildflowers. Best known worldwide for building enormous and surrealistic public art installations, Quinze focuses For information: sariverfoundation.org. November/December 2015 | On The Town 69
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BIHL HAUS ARTS CELEBRATES 10TH ANNIVERSARY By Dan R. Goddard Photography Greg Harrison
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elebrating its 10th anniversary, Bihl Haus Arts stands as a monument to founder Kellen Kee McIntyre’s vision, perseverance and commitment to community arts. When she first saw the 1920 structure, it was about to be demolished, but through her efforts the two-story home -- reputedly built with stones used to barricade the Alamo – now houses exhibits and art classes that have spun off two popular programs, GO! Arts for seniors and the On and Off Fredericksburg Road Studio Tour. “We’ve worked hard to be here for 10 years,” McIntryre said. “But it’s been really wonderful to work with so many people to make it happen. I’m a bulldog when it comes to doing whatever needs to be done. We lived nearby and I saw this building and wondered what it could become. We fought off a lot of bad projects, but we were finally able to convince the developer that it should be a community arts space.” The Bihl Haus is on the grounds of the Primrose at Monticello Park Apartments near the Deco District on Fredericksburg Road, an affordable housing community for seniors developed by Southwest Housing of Dallas. Once she got the green light, McIntyre, who has taught art at the University of Texas at San Antonio and Incarnate Word College, formed The Bihl Haus Arts Advisory Committee, co-chaired by artist Rita Maria Contreras and made up of community members along with Ron Boling, then director of the UTSA Art Gallery, serving as a technical advisor. The gallery opened in the fall of 2005 with a show featuring 17 area artists.
“ We are still working with many of those ar tists today, although we now show ar tists from all over the world, from Cuba to New Zealand,” McIntyre said. During the past decade, Bihl Haus has featured more than 600 area and international artists in more than 80 exhibitions. For the 10th anniversary exhibit through Dec. 19, McIntyre invited artists who have been involved with Bihl Haus to create works based on what “10” means to them. “The artists are doing a lot of things with the number ‘10,’ ” McIntyre said. “You can expect to see a lot of series of 10.” Over the years, Bihl Haus has presented major exhibits by San Antonio artists such as David Zamora Casas, Danville Chadbourne, Adán Hernández, Susan Oaks, Marilyn Lanfear, Carolina Flores, Joan Fredericks, Ramin Samandari and many more. Theme exhibits have tackled issues such as the myth of the Yellow Rose of Texas, prescription medicine, women’s health during pregnancy and last spring’s “Nature on the Edge: Mutation and Hybridity in 21st Century Art” organized by guest curator David Rubin. “I like to show young artists who have just graduated and haven’t shown much outside the university setting,” McIntyre said. “And I liked to show older artists who aren’t getting the opportunities to show that they should. Most of our shows have some sort of social cultural theme.” November/December 2015 | On The Town 71
Bihl Haus’s fastest-growing program began in response to the needs of the residents of the Primrose Apartments who volunteered to help out at the gallery. “By 2007 the senior volunteers were getting pretty interested in art and they wanted to be more involved,” McIntyre said. “So we decided to offer art classes. But the response turned out to be much greater and more positive than we ever expected. We discovered that most of the seniors we worked with had suffered major trauma in their lives – loss of a spouse, job, home or the onset of disease and chronic health problems. Getting involved in the art classes, however, helped them get back on track and feel better about themselves.” Dr. K. Jill Fleuriet of UTSA and Dr. Adelita G. Cantú of the UT Health Science Center in San Antonio conducted an in-depth study of the painting classes offered at Bihl Haus Arts, which confirmed participants perceived significant improvements in mental and psychosocial health through increased social engagement, self-awareness and empowerment through the process of creating. The results were published in 2012 in Arts and Health and spurred Bihl Haus to expand GO! Arts, which currently serves more than 250 “Goldens” at 16 senior residences and service centers across San Antonio. “We found a magic bullet,” McIntyre said. “My hope is that we can use our program as a model for establishing similar programs around the state.” Meanwhile, McIntyre is gearing up for the 9th annual Fredericksburg Road Studio Tour scheduled for Feb. 20-21, 2016, which she expects to showcase more than 70 artists in seven neighborhoods. “We were about the only arts organization along Fredericksburg Road when we opened in 2005, but now there are several, including the Woodlawn Theater, Classic Theater, Jump-Start Performance Company, Clamp Light Gallery and Centro Cultural Aztlan,” McIntyre said. “If you want a cultural district to grow, you’ve got to seed it, water it, and fertilize it. Bihl Haus Arts has done all that and more.”
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WINGS OF THE CITY
New Exhibit Takes Flight at the Garden By Candace Andrews
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any doors opened and many new friendships were forged when the Mexican Consulate in San Antonio approached the San Antonio Botanical Garden to host the Wings of the City sculpture exhibit, September 9, 2015 – February 14, 2016. Eight handsome monumental bronze sculptures by internationally recognized Mexican Artist Jorge Marín find perfect harmony in the green tranquility of the Botanical Garden. A ninth sculpture is on display at the Southwest School of Art. The impressive exhibit was originally displayed on Paseo de la Reforma in Mexico City in 2010.
be appreciated for their artistry and symbolism, and are also an important representation of the strong cultural exchange and long-standing relationship between San Antonio and Mexico.”
At the Garden, guests will find four sculptures in the formal gardens and four in the Lucile Halsell Conservatory setting. A favorite, of course, among the eight sculptures is the sculpture which gives the exhibit its name: Alas de la Ciudad (Wings of the City). This pair of beautifully cast bronze wings, 15’ in height, invites participants to step and up and pose for a contemplative moment, whether angelic or “Jorge Marin’s ‘Wings of the City’ is a great addition playful! Photos from recent shows in Dallas, Ft. Worth, to the landscape of the San Antonio Botanical and Houston show how imaginative the public has Garden,” said Felix N. Padron, Director of the City been in seizing these photo opportunities. Garden of San Antonio’s Department for Culture & Creative visitors here in San Antonio are having the same kind Development. “These bronze sculptures can certainly of photo fun! 74 On The Town | November/December 2015
The bronze sculptures capture athletic figures in a perfect moment of balance, dynamically portraying immense strength. And, though cast in bronze, the pieces suggest a sense of movement and mystery. Many of the figures have wings, a fascination for Marín since he was a child. To him, they represent freedom. And, what about the masks? For the artist, the masks depersonalize the sculptures, so that they become universal figures. Everyone can identify with the subject.
The Garden sends special thanks to the Mexican Consulate in San Antonio for its sponsorship of the exhibit. Coordinator of the exhibit Estela Gutiérrez Peláez, Consul for Community Affairs, Mexican Consulate in San Antonio, commented, “The opening of this outstanding exhibit was a great success for our community. Marín’s artistic style has a strong foundation in the integration of baroque dramatic art with a powerful sensuality and a subtle sense of the human body.”
Gracious to all, the artist expressed his appreciation to the Garden for the exhibit, calling Executive Director Bob Brackman “a maestro” in his placement of the sculptures. With the Garden’s long history of Art in the Garden, Brackman enjoys the challenge of finding new settings for the diverse sculpture exhibits that have appeared at the Garden in his ten-year tenure. “ This exhibit particularly excited me because I could see the dramatic positioning of the sculptures in the Garden. These pieces comfortably find their place In our natural setting, and our visitors enjoy discovering them,” Brackman comments.
The exhibit will be on display until February 14, 2016.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Photo Credits: Page 76-77 (L-R) Split Monumental (2002) Abrazo Monumental (2006) Archivaldo (2008)
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‘OUR PART OF VICTORY:
TEXANS IN WORLD WAR II’
Institute of Texan Cultures exhibit explores pivotal event By Bryan Howard Photography courtesy ITC
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...h erever you go i n th i s war, you’ll find Texa n s - Wa co Tr i bu n e - Hera l d, Ap r il 18, 1943.
Texas was already changing by the time the United States entered World War II. The Dec. 7, 1941, Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor shocked most Americans, but the assumption that we eventually would be drawn deep into the global conflict was no surprise. Even before that fateful day, Texas, along with the rest of the nation, had been gearing Balfour 76 Jeff On The Town | November/December 2015
up for war. Our Part of Victory: Texans in World War II, now on display at the Institute of Texan Cultures, explores the role of Texas and Texans through this pivotal world event. The impact of war was felt in some way by everyone living in the Lone Star State. Of the 6.5 million Texans living here as the U.S. entered the war, some 750,000 would join the ranks of the military, and millions more would contribute to achieving victory by their efforts on the homefront. It was
truly everyone’s war. After World War I, the “War to End all Wars,” popular sentiment largely swayed the U.S. into an isolationist stance. By the 1930s, it was becoming clear sustained neutrality would be impossible. After fighting erupted in Asia in 1937, followed by war in Europe in 1939, President Franklin D. Roosevelt pushed hard for a stronger national defense. Backed by Texan legislators, new facilities were established in the state to produce the aircraft and warships that would be needed. Largely an agricultural economy before the war, Texas embarked on a path of rapid industrial and energy-resource expansion that would continue long after the war’s end.
officers, more than the nation’s top two military academies, West Point and Annapolis, combined. Over the course of the war, Texans earned a reputation for getting the job done. As Gen. Douglas MacArthur, supreme commander in the Pacific, said, “Whenever I see a Texas man in my command, I have a feeling of confidence.” Alongside the men, about 12,000 Texan women served in uniforms. Col. Ovita Culp Hobby of Killeen was appointed the first commander of the Women’s Army Corps. Texan women served at bases nationwide as well as overseas, including active war zones. Several gave their lives in service; others were taken prisoner of war. On the homefront, nearly every Texan pitched in. By mid-war, some war industries were employing more women than men. Children collected scrap and helped with bond drives, and everyone conserved resources through rationing. Although campaigns were determined on battlefields, it was the effort at home that made advances on the front possible. When it finally came, victory belonged in some part to everyone.
In late 1940, the U.S. implemented its first peacetime draft. By the war’s end, 10 million Americans entered the military through selective service. As the ranks of U.S. forces swelled, Texans were well represented in all branches, from raw recruits to the highest levels of command. At least 150 generals and a dozen admirals called the Lone Star State home, and tens of thousands of Texan officers were in command at the fronts. Texas A&M University alone provided over 14,000 Our Part of Victory is not a chronology of the war; November/December 2015 | On The Town 77
it is a glimpse of the varied experiences of those who were part of it. Uniforms, equipment, images, and military and civilian memorabilia illustrate some of the many stories of the contributions of Texas and Texans. Included are uniform pieces from such well-known Texans as Audie Murphy, the most highly decorated U.S. soldier during the war, Harlon Block, a Marine who helped raise the flag on Iwo Jima, Adm. Chester Nimitz, commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet, and Lyndon B. Johnson, later president of the United States. Items from lesserknown individuals who equally gave their best include uniforms of Texan men and women in the Army, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard and Merchant Marines. There also are examples of the ragged clothing worn by Texans held in Japanese and German POW camps. Intertwined with military memorabilia are items from the homefront, representing the hearts of servicemen and women across the globe.
Photo Credits: Page 76 (L-R) Workers change shifts at the Pennsylvania Shipyards near Beaumont, Texas in June 1943. Courtesy Library of Congress Grace Janota left her job as a department store clerk and operated a lathe in the Consolidated Aircraft Corporation plant near Fort Worth. Courtesy Library of Congress. Page 77 (L-R) Texan M.M. Garcia, a gunner on a B-24 Liberator, completed 50 combat missions while serving with the 780th Bombardment Squadron in Italy. Former office worker Irma Lee McElroy paints an aircraft insignia at the naval station in Corpus Christi. Courtesy Library of Congress. Page 78 (L-R) Boys aid war effort by building models used to train bombardiers in naval recognition at Ellington Field.
Our Part of Victory, open through 2016, is included with general admission to the museum. As a special thank you, all veterans of World War II are Charles Ryter of San Antonio’s Troop 6 volunteered admitted free. to help the Bexar County Defense Saving Committee distribute war bond posters. San Antonio Light, For information: Texancultures.com. April 1942. 78 On The Town | November/December 2015
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Trees of Life exhibit features sculptures, paintings by Veronica Castillo and Kathy Sosa By Janine Richards
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tunning. Thought provoking. Beautiful. Avid conversations hung in the air as I walked through the Centro de Artes’ current exhibit on opening night. The exhibit is a celebration of Trees of Life by sculptress Veronica Castillo and painter Kathy Sosa, with each artwork portraying a visual life narrative, giving the visitor an education into their meanings.
hand as she skipped through, for one minor accident could end years of work. The paintings are both bold and whimsical. In the crowd, I saw Veronica and Kathy engrossed in nonstop chatter with guests.
What are trees of life? The Bible offers numerous references. Genesis 3:23-24 says, “To him who overcomes, I will grant to eat of the tree of life which is Each detailed candelabra sculpture and vibrant in the paradise of God.” Revelations 22:14 says, “Blessed painting, living large within the great Centro de are those who wash their robes, so that they may have Artes museum walls, was perfectly in order. The the right to the tree of life.” A symbol of divinity and sculptures, with hundreds of miniature ceramic icons immortality, trees of life are a beautiful art form. A married to their structures, are delicate. It was quite tree of life, with its ever-extended, intricate branches understandable when I overheard the curator kindly imitating life’s good and evil, encircles all experiences telling a mom to please hold on to her little girl’s – exposing our past and our spiritual connections. November/December 2015 | On The Town 81
“We are the trees of life,” says Veronica, who was born in Izúcar de Matamoros, Puebla, México. Her parents, Don Alfonso Castillo and Doña Soledad Martha Hernandez Baez, raised her from a very young age learning the art form of polychromatic ceramics. Her exhibits throughout the years have achieved international acclaim. The carefully made pieces are her career and are an important part of her soul. Kathy is a Texas transplant from Troy, Alabama. She moved with her mother to San Antonio at the impressionable age of 14. Charmed with the TexMex culture, Kathy eventually explored the artistic expression of mestizaje, the blending of races and cultures that characterizes the Texas-Mexico border region. Kathy is enamored by women – their courage, beauty, vulnerabilities, intelligence and power. Her paintings in this exhibit chronicle the lives of modern women, depicting elaborate “crowns on their minds.” Delving deep in conversation with both artists, it was obvious they more than love what they do. What is the significance of Trees of Life as it relates to your own personal life? Kathy: The beauty is that this series is a forum, a conduit for what you have inside you -- what you’re feeling, what you want to reveal – and I love it for that reason. If it weren’t for Trees of Life, I don’t think I would have been able to write about my mom after her death and paint her tree of life and express my feelings about her, our relationship and her relationships, as openly. Trees of Life, combined with the Mexican tradition of Day of the Dead, which is not a part of my culture, is inviting and so liberating. I’m having more and more fun as I realize the potential for self-expression in Trees of Life. Veronica: The personal meaning comes from the tradition and history of the tree of life and how it has been passed on from generation to generation. To me, the tree of life signifies we are all part of the same world. We decide what our destiny will be, and we are one with nature. Kathy: My children and grandchildren are bicultural – mixture of Mexican American and non-Hispanic. This is my way of saying to them your Latino heritage is important. It’s beautiful. It’s intriguing. It’s fun to learn about. It’s my way of telling them to know who they 82 On The Town | November/December 2015
are, know their cultural history. How do trees of life apply to all cultures? Veronica: The tree of life is universal. Everyone has their own way of expressing the tree of life. In Mexico there are infinite ways to show it. The focus is on life and that is what makes the tree so special and why it can be expressed in many different and unique ways. Kathy: We live in a border region where cultures meet and blend. We then form and become a product of this unique culture. I’m a contemporary artist, and contemporary artists are known for taking whatever they see and making something beautiful from it. If you hide your treasure, then how sad if someone can’t look at it -- to buy it, to share it, to wear it, to emulate it. In the case of the trees of life, that’ll be a huge shame, especially for me because the trees of life have lit a fire in me that I’ll never be able to put out. How would you describe the feeling you get while working on a tree of life piece, when it’s completed, as you stand away from it? Kathy: It’s a joyful process. It gets more joyful as I get deeper into it. The way the paint behaves, the colors, how it all fits together -- it’s pure fun. Because my background is in advertising, I don’t enjoy painting unless I have an idea, one that can take me to many different places. Veronica: Sometimes it is hard for me to work on a piece I have been hired to do; for example, the piece I worked on for the Muertas de Juárez. There was so much pain in that piece, and it reflected the pain of the mothers and the families and the gruesome way in which these girls were killed. Through the clay, the piece really opened me up as an artist, and it expanded my point of view. It went beyond the popular art and the tradition of the tree of life. This impacted me the most. Kathy: I usually don’t make social commentaries with ar t. Ar t can be used to point out what ’s wrong with the world. I haven’t gone there. I’m much more interested in creating something beautiful and thoughtful. However, even though I haven’t concentrated on ar t that ’ll get someone to rise up, I don’t rule this out in the future. Anything could happen. November/December 2015 | On The Town 83
Veronica: As an artist, it is sometimes very hard to let some pieces go, especially pieces that have become a part of you. When I see my pieces displayed, I get very excited, and sometimes I wonder how I was able to create something so profound while also preserving my inherited culture and the meaning that my ancestors passed on to me; a voice that speaks through ceramics.
everything that nature is giving us. We are currently losing this in the world, and people, for example, don’t understand clay is made of all elements of life: earth, wind, water and fire. If we cannot see this, we will lose everything. We have to see, create, improve and teach. Art is a tool to change the conscience as well as to fight to improve our lives.
If you had to tell me one thing about your Trees of Life series you adore the most, what would it be and why?
Kathy: Joy. It’s joyful to make them, and so I want it to be joyful for the art lover. Really, though, what each person takes away is up to the individual – for each person has a life of their own.
Kathy: Their endless expressive possibilities. They’re eternal. They have eternal relevance. I can’t say just The TAMUSA Centro de Artes’ Trees otf Life exhibit, which one thing. The spiritual quality they have. They have continues through January, is free and open to the public. a deep spirit on their own, and they carry the spirit of whoever made them, whoever has touched them. For information: 210-784-1101 or tamusa-ecac.com. They have a deep profundity and a familiarity. Veronica: It would be the trees where I can showcase the daily life of the human being. Either the farmers or indigenous people who protect, preserve and share everything they have with the people who visit their homes. I will always honor these people on the trees of life, so people can see them not as conformists but as people who are happy with what little they have. Many of us have so much and wanting more makes us bitter. These are the differences in society. One of the trees I have always loved was a tree made by my father called The Tree of Life and Death. My father was a devout and conservative Catholic, and he created a piece that showcased when we are born and when we die, which are the two paths we are destined to travel in this world. There is a beautiful section in this tree that displays the traditions of Mexico and other cultures. It shows that even if there is life and death, we have to live our lives to the fullest. This is one of my favorite pieces.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Photo Credits: Page 80 Kathy Sosa Dance of Life and Death On My Mind 48” x 60”, oil on canvas Page 81 Veronica Castillo Modelo de Mis Antepasados Ceramica Policromada Pintado en pinturas naturals 56cm x 51cm x 13cm Coleccion Graciela Sanchez y Amy Kasl Page 82
What do you want visitors to take away from the Kathy Sosa Trees of Life exhibit as they walk out the door? Life Is A Circus On My Mind Veronica: When they leave the exhibit, I want them to be conscious of how important nature is and Page 83 how we are neglecting it. We want to demonstrate how the tree of life is a symbol of evolution and not Veronica Castillo destruction. I want people to see how it is possible Madre Tonantzin to create, shape, love and show passion through Ceramica Policromada nature. I want them to be conscious that our world 81cm x 71cm x32cm is sensitive and simple and that we can preserve Coleccion Janie Barrera 84 On The Town | November/December 2015
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Book Talk:
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EILEEN CURTRIGHT, NOVELIST Story and Photography by Jasmina Wellinghoff
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native of Lincoln, Nebraska, Eileen Curtright grew up in San Antonio and returned here in 2001 after a number of years in other cities, including a stint in her native Lincoln. With a degree in English from the University of Dallas, she pursued graduate studies at Boston University for a while before dropping out “because the job market for English professors was abysmal.” Though her dream was to write fiction, life interfered in a myriad of ways, including a variety of jobs and the birth of three children.
EC: It’s really exciting. This is something I had dreamed of since I was a kid. I remember looking at books in the bookstore and if there was one written by someone named Eileen I would run to my mother and show it to her: “Look what my book is going to look like!” JW: What sparked the idea behind Burned Bridges? EC: I write in a kind of freewheeling way. I don’t usually start with a clear plan of where I am going but I knew I wanted to write a comedy about a mother because I am a huge fan of comic novels and comedy in general and I am also a mother. And I felt that a lot of times mothers don’t get to have any fun in comedies. The mother usually shows up to put a stop to all the fun or she may be ridiculous and we are laughing at her but we are never laughing with her and she is never having funny experiences from her own perspective. I think motherhood is such a hilarious experience that I really had a passion for writing a funny book about a mother.
But she did not give up. Come December 1, Little A, a literary fiction imprint of Amazon Publishing will release Curtright’s first novel, Burned Bridges of Ward, Nebraska, a book famed novelist David Liss described as “a brilliant, hilarious and politically astute take on modern parenting.” The book is indeed an amusing, breezy and insightful romp through the life of a small town where mixed-up characters and zany situations seem to abound. At the heart of it is a thoroughly contemporary single mother who tries to cope with her erratic work circumstances, the PTA food drive, casual sex JW: Tell us about your process? partners, a troublesome ex- boyfriend, widespread EC: My book is plot driven for sure but I come to use of ADHD drugs, and a lot more. the plot through developing the characters and We talked to Ms. Curtright at her home in San Antonio. they lead me in the direction I need to go based on the conflicts between them and the issues at stake. JW: How do you feel about having your first So I first developed the mother character and then novel published? her ex boyfriend, the Silicon Valley millionaire, and
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the conflict between them became the genesis of the book. From there it sprawled out into other characters who would be likely to be part of the life of a mother with a young child. I also wanted to write about the community. I think for a novel that has satirical aims, it’s important to bring in the whole milieu. A bigger cast gives the comedy a lot of energy. JW: Were you trying to capture the sometimes crazy parenting practices of today? EC: I feel there’s a cultural trend toward thinking about our children as commodities that are infinitely perfectible, in a way as investments upon which we expect a return. It comes up all the time in social gatherings or at school events. The teachers are always telling us “back off and let your child take responsibility for his/her life, to fail or succeed on their own steam. And there’s often a wall of resistance to that. Parents seem to have the attitude that “my child’s life is too important for him or her to have any say in it. I am going to manage every aspect of it.” It’s born out of anxiety and it’s definitely a group phenomenon. When you see how anxious the other parents are, you feel like you must be at least as anxious if not more anxious than them. Though they often say, I just want my child to be happy, they don’t mean it. JW: What kind of mom are you? EC: In a way I am as guilty as the people in my book. I worried about things, especially when they were little. It’s such a time of insecurity for the mother. As they grow you realize your child is her own person and I can help her grow and find her place in the world as best she can but I cannot reengineer her into something she’s not. JW: A senior editor at Amazon called your novel a satire. Do you agree with that description? EC: Yes. It’s a fun book, it’s a goofy book; there are silly jokes in it but there are also jokes that are more pointed and critical of modern parenting practices. My goal was to entertains on both levels, to be amusing in a sort of low-comedy way but also to provide the satisfaction of laughing at ourselves. As a writer, you are who you are. I often have ideas 90 On The Town | November/December 2015
for a deeply serious story but once I start writing it I think it’s such an imaginative pleasure, there’s becomes comic. such joy in it. I compare it to playing with dolls as a girl. You can have a little world that you are in JW: For a lot of writers finding an agent is very charge of and there are all these people in it and hard. How did you manage it on your first try? stories take off. I guess I have never been willing to give that up. Just entering another world is such a EC: It’s a tough climate out there for selling debut pleasure and it gives you a way to analyze and gain fiction, for sure. I was very lucky, I guess. I did put perspective on the real world. in a lot of time into getting the manuscript to the point where somebody would consider it, so I tried JW: Novelist David Liss endorsed your book and very hard in that respect. As for getting an agent, I he is quoted on the back cover. How did that went to a conference in Brooklyn, the Slice Literary come about? Writers’ Conference. I had never met magazine or book editors before so I thought I would go and EC: You can’t find your voice as a writer until you find out what they were thinking and what they actually start writing. I decided to take several were looking for. But while there, I thought I might classes at Gemini Ink to help me find my voice. I as well pitch my book to an agent. One agent who had read one of his novels when my husband and attended the conference was Noah Ballard who I lived in Nebraska and when we got here I was represents me now. I saw in his bio that he had surprised to find out that David Liss lived in San gone to the University of Nebraska at Lincoln and Antonio. I took one of his classes at Gemini Ink, that he was looking for a debut comedy! Naturally, I then several others and over the years we became had to talk to him. Then I was kind of shocked when friends. He is a very generous teacher. I believe he asked me to send the full manuscript. that writers can teach each other a lot. I actually JW: Did he have some advice for you regarding content or tone?
started this book in his novella class three years ago. At some point he said to me something like: “ This is really good and you should finish it.” That kind of feedback from someone who doesn’t have to say that is the most valuable.
EC: I expected him to tell me to tone it down but he said the opposite – you have to make this much bigger. We worked well together. We have similar JW: Now that you are a published novelist, do you tastes in comedy. And then he was able to sell my have any advice for aspiring fiction writers? novel which is not easily done.
EC: Hmm, well…, I think the things that everyone JW: How much have the agent and the publisher’s says are true, sort of like advice on losing weight. editor help you to shape the manuscript into its Every expert says the same thing but no one final form? really wants to hear it. The best advice is: read constantly and just keep writing. If you are lucky EC: It’s funny, writing a novel is a far more to have someone offer a class or some sort of collaborative process than I imagined it was. They mentorship you should certainly pursue that and really shaped it a lot in certain ways. It’s my voice be open to what the teachers say… If your writing and my characters but they helped me fine-tune is not good it doesn’t mean it cannot improve. I scenes to get that satisfying result at the end that wrote two bad novels before Burned Bridges. And these characters have been on a journey and it you have to write what’s fun for you. If you are meant something. They were good in helping me not enjoying it, nobody else will enjoy it either. make every scene serve the overarching narrative line. I am very grateful to them. ----------------------------------------------------------------JW: Why do you want to be a fiction writer? Ms. Curtright’s comments have been slightly edited EC: I never considered writing anything but fiction. for reasons of space and clarity. November/December 2015 | On The Town 91
‘Which Fork Do I Use?’ Confident and Comfortable Dining Prevents Party Faux Pas By Vivienne Gautraux
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ave you ever found yourself at a fancy dinner and looked down to find several forks and knives and have no idea which is your water glass? If you have you are not alone. Dining etiquette, manners and setting the table are becoming a lost art, say Rosemarie Burns and Linda Reed, co-founders of the etiquette consulting firm Manners Simply and Burns & Reed Enterprise. According to the pair, busy lives keep families from sharing meals together, and mobile devices take attention away from table conversation and manners.
In their groundbreaking book, Which Fork Do I Use? Confident and Comfortable Dining, an Independent Publishers Award 2015 National Medalist, Burns and Reed guide both the novice and seasoned host in creating memorable dining experiences and alleviate the nervousness that can come with entertaining. The book includes in-depth table setting information and beautifully illustrated graphics for preparing a table for any occasion – from a simple breakfast to a six-course formal affair. “The art of dining etiquette, manners and setting the table is based on skills which can be learned,” Rosemarie Burns explains. “Linda and I truly believe that it’s as important now as ever to know the basic rules of dining etiquette. Many life events, both social and business related, occur around dining together. It’s in these situations that we are often judged by our behavior. Landing the ideal job or getting promoted can depend upon your ability to handle yourself well at the table. And, making basic mistakes as a host, or even guest, can be embarrassing. The reality is the opinions of us are formed by the way in which we dine.” As we head into the holiday season, Which Fork Do I Use? is the indispensable guide to throwing the perfect dinner party or being a great guest. The authors have included hundreds of illustrations depicting a vast array of serving utensils, glassware, barware, dinnerware and serveware, correct dining etiquette and more. Rosemarie and Linda are known for their passion about entertaining. They love the creative process of planning, cooking and inviting guests to join them. Their goal in writing the book is for hosts and guests at any level to be encouraged, inspired, and confident enough to entertain and dine well. Which Fork Do I Use? has the information needed for any entertaining situation. From dining tips to host gifts to setting the table and greeting guests, this is the must-have book for the holidays. The book is available at www.MannersSimply. com and through Amazon. 92 On The Town | November/December 2015
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