SLOTS | TABLE GAMES | DINING CONCERTS | NIGHTLIFE
UPCOMING ENTERTAINMENT AT TWIN RIVER!
RICK SPRINGFIELD
KEITH SWEAT
KENNY ROGERS
SATURDAY, MAY 12
FRIDAY, MAY 25
FRIDAY, JUNE 1
HOTEL OPENING SUMMER 2018
JUST 10 MINUTES FROM PROVIDENCE! Featuring over 4,200 big-hitting slots, 119 table games, including a poker room! Endless entertainment, first-class dining and non-stop excitement. Only at Twin River Casino, New England’s friendliest casino!
Plan your trip at TWINRIVER.COM or play online today at PLAY.TWINRIVER.COM.
877.82.RIVER | 100 Twin River Road | Lincoln, RI
INDOOR KARTING RESTAURANT SPORTS BAR BILLIARDS BOWLING
LET US BOOK YOUR EVENT
TEAM BUILDING CORPORATE EVENTS BACHELOR PARTIES KIDS PARTIES BIRTHDAYS & SPECIAL EVENTS
10 MINUTES FROM PROVIDENCE 100 Higginson Ave | Lincoln, RI 02865 | 401-721-5764 | www.R1indoorkarting.com @ R1indoorkarting | @ fuel.restaurant
Weight loss, with a focus on health and well-being Our new name—Center for Weight and Wellness—better reflects our integrated approach to weight loss that includes medical supervision, nutrition, exercise, behavioral counseling and education, as well as ongoing support for long-term success and overall well-being. The Center for Weight and Wellness at The Miriam Hospital (formerly the Weight Management Program) continues to offer the same highly effective programs that moderately to severely overweight patients have trusted for more than 30 years to help them achieve their weight management goals. We now have two locations:
146 West River Street, Suite 11A Providence, RI 02904 1377 South County Trail, Unit 1 East Greenwich, RI 02818 For more information or to enroll in a free orientation session, call 401-793-8790 or visit www.lifespan.org/center-weight-wellness.
CON T EN TS
Photography by mIke Braca
Providence Monthly • April 2018
Laugh until it hurts at one of Providence Improv Guild's 3 weekly shows (p. 27)
FEATURES
22 Art on the Wild Side
27 Entertain Yourself
Peek inside the exotic world of the RISD Nature Lab
Galleries, theater, live comedy, and more in our spring arts preview
DEPARTMENTS Every Month
18 A recent grad and gun violence
Get Out
55 IN THE KITCHEN: Persimmon's
prevention organizer is back in town
41 THE MUST LIST: This month’s
Champe Speidel on the secrets to
and already running for office
can’t-miss events
success
11 Roller Derby puts a family-friendly
20 Scene in PVD: The stunning
44 MUSIC: Performers throw down
56 ON THE MENU: A bigger
spin on the Running of the Bulls
return of StyleWeek Northeast
in rap and break battles at The
selection at The Pantry at Avenue N
9
Commentary
Providence Pulse
Culture Games
12 How the Rhode Island Bucket
City Style
Drummers turn everyday objects into
33 AT HOME: Inside a mid-century
46 ON STAGE: The Gamm brings
inspiring jams
marvel on the East Side
down the curtain in Pawtucket
13 The Wheeler Clothing Sale is a
35 THE LOOK: Caroline Stevens
48 ART: When the rest of the city
bargain hunter's dream
goes bright, even on rainy April days
sleeps, V.F. Wolf absorbs history
14 A locally filmed comedy is
36 GET FIT: Salsa classes so fun
Feast
complete. All it needs is Bill Murray
you won't know you're exercising
51 TREND: Four food-filled days at
57 IN THE DRINK: Kleos pours a cocktail worthy of the gods 60 RESTAURANT GUIDE: Mix up your dinner plans this month
Hidden PVD 66 Inside Buddy's notorious Power Street home
the Eat Drink RI Festival
16 A local designer leads the way on
38 WHOLE BIDY: Trading a winter
Hasbro's biggest Star Wars toy yet
coat for a summer glow at Blush Tan
52 REVIEW: A world of street food and hip hop collide at Troop
17 Southside Community Land
39 SHOP AROUND: Two downtown
Trust has everything your backyard
shops are better than one at Mod-
garden needs
ern Love & Queen of Hearts
ON THE COVER: Tai Awolaju and Aman Soni view Fati's Dream, 2012 by Monica Shinn at Skye Gallery on Broadway.
Photography by Small Frye Photography
MONTHLY
Publishers Barry Fain Richard Fleischer John Howell
Media Director Jeanette St. Pierre
Managing Editor Tony Pacitti
Associate Managing Editor Sophie Hagen
Editor Robert Isenberg
Editor at Large Julie Tremaine
Art Director Nick DelGiudice
Assistant Art Director Neftali Torres
Advertising Design Director Layheang Meas
Graphic Designer Brandon Harmon
Staff Photographer Savannah Barkley Marketing Coordinator Kim Tingle Account Managers Shelley Cavoli Louann DiMuccio-Darwich Ann Gallagher Kristine Mangan Elizabeth Riel Dan Schwartz Stephanie Oster Wilmarth For advertising information email: Marketing@ProvidenceOnline.com Contributing Photographers
Open daily at Waterplace with the finest cafe fare, house-made baked goods and craft beverages 400 Exchange Street 401-684-4994 SydneyPVD.com 8
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
Mike Braca
Meghan H. Follett
Stacey Doyle
Small Frye Photography
Wolf Matthewson
Brad Smith
Contributing Illustrator Lia Marcoux
Contributing Writers Marrissa Ballard
Adam Hogue
Erin Belknap
Jackie Ignall
Jessica Bryant
Dan McGowan
Emily Buonaiuto
Stephanie Obodda
Meghan H. Follett
John Taraborelli
Amanda M. Grosvenor
Adam Toobin
Distribution Services Special Delivery PROVIDENCE MEDIA INC. 1070 Main Street, Suite 302, Pawtucket RI 02860 401-305-3391 • Mail@ProvidenceOnline.com ProvidenceOnline.com
CO MME NTA RY MARCH ISSUE FEEDBACK WORTH A POT OF GOLD “Tech companies are coming to Providence, and they’re hiring. Read more about the boom of companies relocating to Providence in Providence Monthly.” @ProvFoundation on “Now Hiring” via Facebook
“Very, very thankful to everyone who has been supporting me from day one. 2018 is the year I represent myself and my family with a full heart and clear path.” @itsme_savonnara.alexander on “Divine Inspiration” via Instagram “Thank you again for the well written, beautiful article, for supporting local talents such as myself, and for bringing more awareness to poetry in this state!” @MrOrangeLive on “Love and Poetry” via Instagram “Seeing this wonderful review in print when we got to work on our six month Bayberry anniversary yesterday was the icing on the cake! Thank you so much Providence Monthly.” @BayBerryBeerHall on “Hop to It” via Instagram
FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM FOR COOL CONTESTS Follow @PVDMonthly on Instagram and watch out for our wicked awesome giveaway contests! Participate for a chance to win prizes like a pair of tickets to see Festival Ballet’s Little Mermaid, passes to the Roger Williams Park Zoo, and gift certificates to great local restaurants.
W E B E XC LU S I V E S
Photography (top) courtesy of Festival Ballet, (bottom) by Wolf Mathewson
THE NEW MAIN STREET Business owners and community members in the East Bay are banding together to redefine Main Street USA.
MADE IN SOUTH COUNTY Go inside the creative spaces of four artists living and working in Southern Rhode Island and see how everything from guitars to large-scale public sculptures is crafted.
even more awesomeness @ ProvidenceOnline.com FO LLOW US ON SOC IAL /PVDMonthly
@PV D M o nthly
F RE E W E E K LY N E WS L E T T E R
Sign up and stay in the know on all things Rhody: HeyRhody.com/newsletter ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
9
COMING SOON TO WAYLAND SQUARE
MERCER'S DELICATESSEN
MERCER’S DELIC ATESSEN
485 ANGELL STREET • 401.443.5249 • MERCERSDELI.COM
Highest Quality, Easiest Access For a List of Patient Service Center Locations:
401-793-4242
800-980-4244
LifespanLabs.org 10
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
PULSE City • Scene in PVD
Get Gored For Good is just like the real Running of the Bulls, only safer and with more roller skates
That’s No Bull Providence Roller Derby is running you down for a good cause Imagine hundreds of people lined up wearing white shirts and
women, and children in Rhode Island who are hungry, homeless, and in crisis.
sneakers, waiting for the pop of the start gun to go off. Then the
This year’s race happens on April 29, when runners and walkers
dash, when they take off down the road at a sprint – or a walk –
can choose between the family-friendly 1.5-mile obstacle route and
as the gates are opened behind them, allowing dozens of “bulls”
the more challenging 5k route, all while “roller bulls” skate along the
to race out after them. Except these bulls are women, wearing
course behind them wielding paint brushes dipped in red and adorned
skates and helmets.
with bull horn helmets, “goring” down runners and encouraging them
Since 2013, Providence Roller Derby has partnered with Amos House in
along the routes. It’s a friendlier, safer way to enjoy the Running of
their own version of the historic Running of the Bulls – Get Gored For Good –
the Bulls and there’s a party afterwards to celebrate at Burnside Park.
with proceeds going directly to support Amos House’s mission to help men,
GetGoredForGood.com –Katerina Batchelder
Photography by Mike Braca ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
11
PULSE • City
THE
FAMOUS WHEELER Clothing & More
SALE SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE! Clothes • Sporting Goods • Housewares Books • Toys • Boutique
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
APRIL 12-14
The Rhode Island Bucket Drummers take their improvised instruments to the streets
(10AM - 8PM) (12PM - 8PM) (10AM - 3PM)
The Heartbeat of Community
THU
FRI
SAT
407 BROOK ST. | PROVIDENCE, RI www.wheelerschool.org/clothingsale www.facebook.com/wheelerclothingsale Cash, Check & CC ($50 Min charge for CC)
All proceeds benefit The Wheeler School
Leaders in Eye Care since 1927
Emergencies Seen Immediately Same Day Appointments Often Available Evening and Weekend Hours Glaucoma ∙ Macular Degeneration Cataract ∙ Diabetic Eye Disease Specialty Contact Lenses Designer Glasses Dr. John D. Corrow Dr. Carl D. Corrow Dr. J. Lawrence Norton
Dr. Matthew D. Doyle Dr. Michael R. Martinez Dr. Scott Sylvia
331-2020 • AdvancedEyeCareRI.com 780 North Main Street, Providence Pawtucket Red Sox and Providence Bruins Official Eye Care Provider 12
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
The RI Bucket Drummers on music as inspiration and education Lifelong friends James Richards and Derek Blackmar used their passion for music to create the Rhode Island Bucket Drummers. The street percussion group has brought their five-gallon buckets to streets and festivals, school workshops, and community centers across the state. Together, the drumming duo have sought to “promote a healthy lifestyle through rhythm and movement” and create a learning experience for observers. Richards and I discussed drumming and its ability to bring community together. When and where did the RI Bucket Drummers originate? Has it always been just you two? RI Bucket Drummers was formed in October 2015 out of Cranston. Derek and I are the founders, but other drummers sometimes perform with us for larger scale events. What led you to start the group? We both played in our high school marching band and took lessons from the same drum instructor, John Ragosta. The two of us have always loved the idea that you can make music out of anything. After seeing street performers busking at The Scituate Art Festival a couple years ago, we decided to take it to the streets ourselves.
What types of objects and instruments do you use to create your distinct, energetic sound? We try to utilize everyday household items: five-gallon plastic buckets, laundry detergent buckets, cat litter buckets, trashcans. Our most unique instrument is probably our “cymbal”: a metal strainer that you would normally see being used at a clambake. Where do you typically perform? Any favorite places? We perform at schools, private events, community centers, fairs, festivals, bars, and clubs. All of these environments are special in their own way, but performing at youth workshops is definitely the most fulfilling. Seeing the kids have fun playing music and knowing that we are making a positive impact is why we do it. What’s next for you guys? We’d like to continue to grow and expand our workshop programs in schools. As funding for music and the arts is reduced, children’s opportunity to be exposed to music at a young age is greatly limited. Drumming helps to develop self-confidence, imagination, and coordination. Counting and keeping time uses math and it’s a good physical activity as well. We believe that our bucket drumming workshops can help provide a pathway to a more well-rounded, musical future for today’s youth. Instagram and Facebook: RIBucketDrummers -Ava Callery
The Best-Kept Shopping Secret Wheeler School’s annual fundraising market is serious shopping goals
Photo courtesy of the Wheeler school
The Wheeler Clothing Sale is an annual must for bargain hunters
The thing about The Famous Wheeler Clothing and More Sale is that, even though it’s been going on for 70 years, nobody outside of the East Side knows about it. So, apologies to them, but the secret is officially out of the bag – and what’s going in the bag are shoes, accessories, and clothing for men, women, and kids. Taking over Wheeler School’s Madden Gym on Brook Street from April 12 to 14, the “pop-up department store,” as they call it, is a massive fundraiser for the school. Families donate wearables, but also kitchen goods, homewares, sporting equipment, toys, and more – and the school sells them to the community for a steal. Think of it like a really well-curated yard sale, but a yard sale with a Women’s Designer Boutique (because that’s a real thing). The smartest shoppers get there on opening day, when names like Chanel and Prada are available alongside Kate Spade, Coach, and other in-demand labels. All the proceeds benefit the school and Breakthrough Providence, which helps get kids to college and pursuing careers in education. So you’re not just shopping, you’re doing something good for others, too. Brook Street, WheelerSchool.org/ClothingSale –Julie Tremaine
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
13
PULSE • City
The cast and crew of the Kinnane Brothers locally filmed comedy Saving Bill Murray... minus Bill Murray
Waiting For Murray
Bill Murray’s kind of like pop culture’s Sasquatch: both are the subject of rabid fandom and obsession, and everybody seems to have a story about randomly encountering them in the wild. That reputation plays into the new comedy Saving Bill Murray, which was written and directed as a family affair by the Kinnane Brothers of Little Compton. In the film, two brothers find an abandoned car on a small Rhode Island back road, a pool of blood on the pavement, and a driver’s license belonging to one Bill Murray. From there, the two are on a madcap journey to find the legendary actor, a quest that isn’t much different from the one they’re currently engaged in behind the scenes. “He’s a really hard guy to get ahold of,” says Chuck Kinnane, who directed the film and co-wrote it with his brothers Brendan, Daniel, John, Patrick, and Pete – creators
14
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
of the YouTube channel Kinnane Brothers Comedy – and their brother-in-law Jeff Azize (Brendan and Patrick also star as the film’s leads). Murray, who replaced his agents with a confounding 800-number hotline decades ago, has stumped Hollywood’s biggest producers, yet somehow the Kinnanes were able to secure his blessing for the project. “He loved the idea, loved the premise [but] couldn’t make a cameo [when we were filming],” Kinnane explains. With that greenlight, and permission to use his likeness in a digital cameo, the gang shot the film on the cheap in 2016, using local actors. It’s all but finished – but they’re still holding out for that cameo. Contact has been spotty but promising, and in true Rhode Island fashion, everyone seems to have some sort of connection to Murray.
“I can’t tell you how many people we’ve talked to while working on this film who have Bill Murray stories,” Kinnane says. The car the brothers find in the film – an appropriately stylish ‘67 Sunbeam Alpine – belongs to Lieutenant Maryanne Perry of the Portsmouth Police Department; one day, while Perry was driving in Newport, Murray hopped into the car without warning because he really wanted to take a ride in it. For their holy grail cameo in a short scene in Newport, the Kinnanes are banking on Murray’s friendship with Rhode Island surfing legend Sid Abbruzzi. “For Bill Murray fans it would be tough to do the film without him appearing in some way,” says Kinnane, who feels that this last missing piece of the film is within their reach. “He’s super supportive. We’re hoping to find the time to get him.” SavingBillMurray.com –Tony Pacitti
Photo courtesy of the Kinnane Brothers
A family of Rhody filmmakers are on a quest to find the elusive icon
14.95
$
weekday lunch three-course chef’s selection menu
29.95
$
Sunday and Monday dinner three-course chef’s selection menu
50% OFF
happy hour specials
bottles of wine Mondays in Smithfield and Wednesdays in Providence
7 days a week
starting at 3pm
Owners Sherri & Leonard Mello
Casually Elegant Tuscan-Inspired Cuisine & Award-Winning Wine and Cocktail Programs Enjoy our creative and affordable menu, along with our extensive beer and wine list in our stylish surroundings. Big city food and ambience without the big city price tag!
Tavolo Wine Bar & Tuscan Grille • tavolowinebar.com
970 Douglas Pike, Smithfield • 401 349 4979 | 289 Atwells Avenue, Providence • 401 274 6000
Your Feminine Health Is Worth Talking About
TALK TO US TODAY The CO2RE® laser treats effects from childbirth, aging and lack of estrogen to improve sexual health and wellness.
PAULA MOSKOWITZ, MD, PHD CAROLINE CHANG, MD | VALERIE TOKARZ, DO
MARY CHRISTINA SIMPSON, MD, OB/GYN
The Name You Trust
1672 South County Trail, East Greenwich / 885-7546 (SKIN) / DermRI.com Our MA location is 153 East Washington Street, North Attleboro
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
15
PULSE • City
Local toy designer Mark Boudreaux is working on what could be Hasbro’s biggest Star Wars toy ever
Biggest. Toy. Ever.
Big-time criminals have big-time appetites, but Jabba the Hutt is in a league of his own. The notorious Outer Rim kingpin made an impression in Return of the Jedi thanks to his unique brand of interstellar sleaze, a palace full of deathtraps and freaky spacemen, and a giant hovercraft that was also kind of a sailboat. That sail barge – The Khetanna – is the rare example of a Star Wars vehicle or character that hasn’t found its way to a toy aisle yet, but with crowdsourcing campaign Haslab aimed at the diehard fans, Pawtucket-based Hasbro thinks it may have found a way to bring its biggest Star Wars toy ever to life.
16
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
The idea is to pre-sell 5,000 units of the toy by April 4. If Hasbro hits the target, collectors will not only be the first to get this monster of a toy – it will be more than four feet long and over a foot high and weigh 15 pounds, all to scale with the standard-sized Star Wars figures – but also get behind-the-scenes updates on every stage of development and a 64-page book called Behind the Workbench full of photos, blueprints, and interviews with the toy’s designers, like Cranston’s own Mark Boudreaux, senior principal product designer for the Star Wars line. “I’ve been lucky enough to work on so many iconic Star Wars toys,” Boudreaux
says in the Haslab launch video. Since the Kenner days working on the original line of Star Wars toys, Boudreaux has had a hand in every single Millennium Falcon toy made for the 3-and-3/4-inch figure line, not to mention TIE Fighters, AT-ATs, and basically every other coolest spaceship ever you can think of. “It’s been a dream come true for me, both as a designer and a fan.” At $500 a pop, it’s a big ask, but Star Wars collectors are nothing if not fiercely loyal to the brand. And even if it falls short, it’s a nice reminder of the role Rhode Islanders play in a galaxy far, far away. Haslab.com –Tony Pacitti
Photo courtesy of Hasbro
Hasbro taps diehard collectors to help make its biggest Star Wars toy yet
Experience. Integrity. Results.
CALL Gerri Schiffman (401) 474-3733 The Urban Ag Kick Off is getting backyard farmers ready for the season at four community gardens this month
#1 Agent on the Farm Out
Photo courtesy of the Southside Community Land Trust
The growing season starts with the Urban Ag Kick-Off We can’t all be born with naturally green thumbs, and a lot of us who live in the city don’t have the space for what you’d traditionally call a farm, but why should that stop you from growing your own herbs and heirloom veggies where you can? The folks at the Southside Community Land Trust are hosting their annual Urban Ag KickOff this month at four community gardens across the city, bringing not just free seeds, but also the know-how to help fledgling farmers get their own non-GMO gardens growing in no time. On April 14, experts will be at the Sessions Street Community Garden on the East Side, Joslin Community Garden in Olneyville, Davey Lopes Recreation Center on the South Side, and Groundwork Community Garden on the West Side to answer
questions about chemical-free gardening and planting schedules, as well as distribute free seeds. Organic fertilizer will be available for purchase, and members of the Southside Community Land Trust – or anyone who signs up – will get to leave home with up to 50 gallons of sweet, sweet compost. It all lines up with SCLT’s continuing mission to spread access to land, education, and resources to Rhode Islanders looking to engage in healthy, sustainable food practices. Backyard and container gardens are a great way to take that first step into urban farming, and as far as fresh picked goes, nothing beats walking into your yard and snatching something straight out of your own dirt. SouthsideCLT.com –Tony Pacitti
EAST SIDE
for 2017 Transactions & Total Volume
gerrischiffman.com
residentialproperties.com gerri@residentialproperties.com ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
17
Gotta get out? Have no time to spend?
PULSE • City
From Student Council to City Council
Let Dakota’s Pet Services Care For Your Friend! Dog Walking • In-Home Boarding Hotel Sitting • Wedding Escort Pick Up & Drop Off Taxi • Overnites Administration Of Medications Pet Sitting & More!
Just months after graduating from college and returning to Providence, Kat Kerwin is running for office
Recent graduate Kat Kerwin is throwing her hat into the ring for Ward 12’s city council seat
Pet CPR/First Aid Certified PSI Pet Sitters International Member Bonded & Insured
401-862-6097 • www.mydps.me debbie@mydps.me
A MuLti-SenSory inStALLAtion
Bac k to the
Work encounters with h i s t o r i c a l & C o n t e m p o r a r y Vo i c e s
March & april 2018 Sundays at 2:00 pm Tuesdays at 7:00 pm
A new way to experience a historic house! An immersive experience where you discover the stories of people who built the Lippitt House and the voices of those who care for it today. Free; reservations required
www.LippittHouse.org (401) 453-0688
LIPPITT HOUSE MUSEUM
18
Created by
Strange Attractor
Supported by
www.strangeattractor.org
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
Kat Kerwin just got back to Rhode Island and she’s hitting the ground running. After graduating from University of Wisconsin (UW) early, the 20-year-old La Salle graduate is running communications for the Rhode Island Coalition Against Gun Violence (RICAGV) and campaigning to unseat Councilman Terrence Hassett for Ward 12’s city council seat. We spoke to Kerwin just two weeks after she had launched her campaign for city council in January. How’s the campaign going? I feel like I’ve aged at least 15 years in the
last two weeks. I thought no one would care, that I’d have more time to get behind it. But people are really excited that someone as young as me is running. How long have you been involved in political work? I remember being a high schooler and interning in the mayor’s office for constituent services; I’d be the youngest one there by four or five years. I worked on Angel Taveras’s gubernatorial campaign as the youngest staff member. I also interned on Senator Whitehouse’s reelection campaign in 2012.
Rhode Island's Favorite
ITALIAN DINING TRADITION
I started getting involved in organizing, fighting for student power rights and gun violence prevention at UW, when we woke up the morning after the 2016 election and planned a post-election march with other student activists. Four thousand people showed up. Why did you decide to move back to Rhode Island this past December? I was here all summer working for the mayor as an Art, Culture + Tourism fellow, and I was meeting people at the [Democratic] women’s caucus meetings and interacting with so many community organizers. I started to feel that there was a sense of urgency to get involved now. Madison is a great city and I loved my time there, but I wanted to be back doing this work in the community where I was raised. How has the transition been from your organizing work at UW? Rhode Island is a picnic compared to Wisconsin. The work there was an uphill battle, really defensive. The state is always on the brink of passing campus carry and workplace carry. Not to say that lobbying here is extremely easy but it’s different – people here are a lot more receptive to progress. Has the coalition’s work shifted since the shooting in Parkland, Florida? Originally our focus was the Safe Schools Act; now it looks like we’re going to be driving home the Safe Schools Act and assault weapons ban. We have gotten so many inquiries from high school organizers inspired by the Parkland students’ activism. It’s been tough for the gun violence prevention community to be thinking about this so much, but at the same time we’re seeing so much good come out of tragedy. KatKerwinForPVD.com –Tony Pacitti
FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED FOR OVER 80 YEARS
NEW & CLASSIC MENU ITEMS DAILY & WEEKLY SPECIALS
100 SABRA STREET, CRANSTON • 781-9693 • TWINOAKSREST.COM
DINNER’S CALLING 401 861 1770 ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
19
Can You
BELIEVE It's Been
36 Years! Join us Sunday April 8th, 11-5pm for a Party and Celebration
PULSE • Scene in PVD
From February 21 to 24, Styleweek Northeast took over the Rhode Island Convention Center when it returned for four days of runway shows, bringing world-class designers to the city to show off their newest looks. StyleweekNortheast.com —Photography by Brandon Harmon
Madeline Lavin, Drew Schoettler, Darlene Doroc
Christopher Sean, Suzi Ballenger, Beverly Arsem
20% OFF 15% OFF 35% OFF
BRING IN THE AD FOR AN ADDITIONAL
FOR A TOTAL OF
*SALE THROUGH SATURDAY, MAY 5 Previous Sales, Special Orders, Prom & Evening Gowns not included
Alana Betancourt, Audrey Worrell, Tanea Savage
a specialty boutique CONTEMPORARY WOMAN APPAREL, LINGERIE & ACCESSORIES
THE VILLAGE CENTER 290 County Road Barrington • 247-1087
OPEN DAILY 10-5:30, Saturday 10-5
20
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
Trinaia Bergon, Sarah Kaplan
The Number 1 Brand in Rhode Island Residential Real Estate #1 RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES AGENT
OVER $63 MILLION SOLD IN 2017* Whether you call the East Side, West Side, Downtown, Elmhurst, Oak Hill or Edgewood home
CALL Jim today he’ll get you moving *source statewide MLS and public record
RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES LTD | 401.553.6383 | ThePVDRealEstateGuy.com
FOR TICKETS THESTRANDRI.COM
79 WASHINGTON ST PROVIDENCE RI ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
21
The Art of Science RISD’s Nature Lab continues its founder’s mission to find beauty and design in the natural world
By Amanda M. Grosvenor
H
ave you ever passed the Edna Lawrence Nature Lab on Waterman Street, between North Main and Benefit, and wondered about the items you glimpsed within? Perhaps you spotted taxidermied, antlered animal heads and various potted plants, or small glass boxes full of curious objects and a massive porcupine fish hanging from the ceiling. Perhaps you turned a corner and noticed a tank of swirling live jellyfish, glowing purplish-blue at night. It may surprise you to learn that this assortment of natural artifacts, both living and preserved, in fact comprises a nature lab at the Rhode Island School of Design that just celebrated its 80th anniversary – a lab that also now houses cutting-edge technological
equipment, helping students, researchers, and other innovators to bridge the perceived gap between science and artistic design. The site is home both to art students drawing inspiration from the artifacts and to scientific experiments on climate change and the intersections of nature and design. And it’s all thanks to longtime RISD professor and class of 1922 graduate Edna Lawrence.
T
he Waterman Building, constructed in 1893, was the first structure built specifically for RISD (founded 16 years prior); the first floor housed the school’s museum, and drawing studios were up above. When the museum moved out, the first floor became library space available for faculty teaching use,
Photo by Matthew Clowney courtesy of the RISD Nature Lab
where professor Edna Lawrence began teaching “Nature Drawing” in the 1930s. “She started collecting things from her own travels to serve as specimens the students could look at and gain inspiration from,” says Jen Bissonnette, Biological Programs Designer for the lab and one of three full-time scientists on staff there, who supervise students at work in the lab and teach classes and workshops. It was unprecedented for an art school to have a nature lab, and most of the items Lawrence amassed are unlabeled, instead grouped together “according to how Edna thought they made a nice display,” says Bissonnette. Although at times challenging from a forensic standpoint, Bissonnette notes that the lack
Edna Lawrence founded the RISD Nature Lab in 1937 as a place for students to investigate the intersection of art and science
of identification – “we call it direct, unmediated access,” she says – does have its advantages. Rather than feeling educationally onerous to students – “sort of ‘Oh, I guess I’m going to have to learn today’” – the lab instead asks, “‘What do you see that’s appealing and intriguing?’ and invites you to explore that however you want to,’” she says. “It’s about getting inspired by those forms, colors, and patterns.” RISD students and faculty can “check out” many of the lab’s 80,000 specimens – a collection that has grown even after Lawrence’s
retirement in the 1970s thanks largely to donations from alumni and various organizations. Between RISD student and faculty activities, approximately 8,000 “checkouts” every year, classes, and visits from off-campus researchers and other groups, the 5,000-square-foot Nature Lab tends to stay quite busy during the 80 hours it is open weekly. Last year, it provided visits and tours to 62 different organizations and schools.
T
he first-floor collections, including the ornithology “bone room,” make up only one part of the Nature Lab. Before her retirement, Lawrence specified that she wanted the lab to have a microscope and projector so that students could see the world up close. Over
the years, with help from two Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) grants awarded to the state of Rhode Island to research the impacts of climate change on coastal ecosystems (RISD is the only art and design school nationwide to receive such a grant), as well as an EArly-concept Grant for Exploratory Research (EAGER), the lab has been able to purchase high-tech imaging systems, research-grade microscopes, and high-speed camera systems with 3D-scanning technology: “everything to take students from the micro to the macro, to look at the fundamentals of pattern form and structure of ecosystems, or a citywide scale, or a regional scale – all in one place,” says Nature Lab Director Neal Overstrom.
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
23
24
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
environmental pollutants) are all the subjects of experimentation at the Nature Lab.
T
he lab invites work-study students with weekly shifts to curate their own display cabinets from time to time. The lab’s old wood-and-glass cabinets and small glass display boxes containing various insects, plant components, and other specimens create “this cabinet of curiosities kind of feel, and it’s very loosely organized – very little if any interpretation,” says Overstrom. Each time a student reorganizes a cabinet, “you juxtapose specimens in a new way, and you create a different narrative.” Such an unstructured approach invites viewers to think “more holistically about the fundamentals of pattern, form, texture, color structure,” Overstrom says. “All of the things that are as integral to our design education as they are to the sciences.” One room houses a living wall and aquaponic tanks with fish and plants sustaining each other in an integrated system. The room will soon become a biomaker space, Bissonnette says, and this spring, students will actually design the space according to Biophilic principles, which are currently being studied intensively for
80,000 specimens give students an up-close opportunity to examine design fundamentals as they occur in nature
their potentially positive impacts on health, productivity, focus, and well-being. “To my mind, the Nature Lab becomes this crucible – this space where you can hold the art and science together and have some really interesting reactions and interactions happen,” says Bissonnette. “It’s all transdisciplinary,” Overstrom adds. “Edna Lawrence said that you can always turn to nature as a source of ideas and invention, and that’s especially true now that we have more people living in urban spaces than ever before – and that trend is going to continue.” By marrying scientific inquiry and artistic innovation, the Nature Lab is the place to examine “living systems in the context of urban spaces.” The lab is a private facility but occasionally holds programming open to the public. From April 6 through June 17, the Providence Athenaeum will host Observing Nature: Edna Lawrence & Cabinets of Curiosities, an exhibit of the Athenaeum’s Natural History Collection displayed with specimens from the Nature Lab.
Photography by Brad Smith
The bottom floor furthers Lawrence’s original mission to “open students’ eyes to the marvels of beauty in nature… of forms, space, color, texture, design and structure” and complements the collections upstairs by using technology to focus on the inter-connectivity of nature, science, and “emerging areas of evidence-based design.” (The upstairs floors are still used as art studios.) The work of students like Maria Ferreira, who used the inverted compound microscopes to record crystals growing under polarizing filters, and Brown graduate Beatrice Steinert, who used the lab’s technology to study and later create a children’s book about marine plankton, demonstrate the potential for innovative ideas at the intersections of science and art. “It’s not just adding an artistic viewpoint or skills to existing STEM disciplines,” Overstrom says. “It’s really a way of thinking about how art and design study can provide that gateway to students who might not otherwise engage with them.” Cutting-edge concepts like Biomimicry (emulating nature’s patterns and strategies to find design solutions for human living), Biophilic Design (integrating nature into architecture and industrial design), and Bioremediation (using microorganisms and other life forms to break down
l So
S
d
d ol
Decorating Southern New England One Beautiful Rug at a Time MENTION OR BRING IN AD FOR
20% DISCOUNT l o S
d
l So
d
ON ALL NEW RUGS IN STOCK* *OFFER EXPIRES 4/30/18
— Financing Available — One Governor Street Providence • (401) 751-5100 www.rustigianrugs.com Open Mon-Fri 10-5:30, Sat 10-5
the perfect spot for GRADUATION DINNERS, WATERFIRE AND OUTSIDE DINING
76 South Main Street, Providence
|
(401)331-0003 | www.Par ksideProvidence.com
FREE INSTALLATION
Cedar Swing Sets
OR
Fireplace Inserts & Stoves
HOME SHOW
SALE
MARCH 29 - APRIL 14
AREA’S LARGEST SWINGSET DISPLAY
SAVE
UP TO $
500
WITH FREE INSTALLATION*
775 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk MA
thefireplaceshowcase.com • 508.336.2600 • Tues-Fri 10-6, Sat 9-5 26
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
Entertain Yourself
Get out and see what’s happening on the city’s stages, screens, and gallery walls
by Tony Pacitti
T
he best thing about Providence is that a world of art, entertain-
ment, and culture is never more than a stone’s throw away. Live comedy and theater, award-winning and cult cinema, literary events and visual arts of all kinds – there’s something here for all tastes, and plenty to get you out of your comfort zone. Now that spring has sprung (we think), get out, see a show, and find your new favorite way to spend a night out. Photography by Small Frye Photography
Skye Gallery on Broadway
Improv Comedy Providence may not be one of those mythical comedy towns cranky old comics talk about on their podcasts, but there’s a thriving improv scene here. For the uninitiated, improv is exactly what it sounds like – performers get on stage and make it all up on the spot, ensuring that you’ll never see the same show twice.
Providence Improv Guild (PIG) puts on three shows a week, with its house teams Seagull Related Fish Fight and Fool’s Pudding taking the stage on Fridays and Saturdays. Seagull Related Fish Fight keeps it high energy and physical, and often finds the whole team on stage together. Fool’s Pudding mixes things up by including silent scenes and patterns that work so well that sets can seem pre-scripted. Other recurring performances include Sow What? which kicks off the set by interviewing a member of the audience and spinning a show out of the details from their Q&A, and a monthly “Harold” team, which performs a style of improv developed by legendary performer Del Close, who taught comedy icons like John Belushi, Mike Myers, and Amy Poehler. The twice-monthly Tim Alan Show explores the idiosyncrasies of the performers’ daily lives, and a monthly Musical Improv has its players singing through a never-before-seen, opera-style show. Broad Street, ImprovPIG.com Improv Jones is Providence’s longest running improv show, and currently performs every first Saturday of the month at AS220. Since 1992, the group has used established and wholly original styles of longform improv, developed over the years and by the more than three dozen performers who have been part of the team. Empire Street, ImprovJones.com
28
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
Never see the same show twice at Providence Improv Guild
Photography by Mike Braca
Wage House just celebrated its first anniversary in February. Shows go up every Friday, and feature a recurring corps of improv teams. Kate and Casey, the two-woman team comprised of Wage House’s founders, prove that two’s a crowd as each performer takes on multiple characters – sometimes in the same scene – in a handful of scenes throughout the set, looping back to earlier story lines without missing a beat. Poolside and Up in the Attic each bring larger casts to the stage, evolving into a kind of high-energy, controlled chaos as players move in and out of scenes or all pile on stage at once. Vox Magna puts a Broadway twist on improv by whipping up an on-the-spot musical comedy with nothing more than a one-word audience suggestion. In addition to these “house teams,” keep an eye out for special shows, like a monthly stand-up night and the Key Party Improv Show, where a handful of married couples in the improv community get mixed into new pairings and get their freak on (comically speaking). Pawtucket, WageHouse.com
Grab a drink and settle in for Riffraff’s book clubs this month on April 4 and 18
Literary Events
Photography by Tony Pacitti
These aren’t the cliched book clubs of suburbia. Here you get challenging, curated reads from people who know what they’re talking about, as well as a chance to get up close and personal with the minds behind them. Riffraff Bookstore Bar is where you go to find good books and have yourself a fancy cocktail. Both the liquid and literary inventories are finely curated, so don’t expect to find the Bud Light of books or the trashy romance novel of booze here. For those who prefer not to read and drink alone, they host two monthly book clubs – one for fiction (April 4) and one for non-fiction (April 18). April book selections are TBD, so keep an eye on their website. Valley Street, RiffraffPVD.com
The Point Street Reading Series brings a panel of authors to Alchemy on the third Tuesday of the month for a lively discussion between word nerds and the pros behind the prose. April’s event is loaded, with authors Mary Moris, Rebekah Frumkin, Anya Yurchyshunm, Rebecca Harrington, and Leah Stewart coming to town. Richmond Street, Facebook: Point Street Reading Series The Providence Athenaeum’s Friday Salon Series brings authors, thinkers, and artists to the historic library to discuss a range of topics. This month, hear about the legacy and vision of the RISD Nature Lab’s founder (April 6), listen to Tom Hennes discuss his work at the 9/11 Memorial Museum in NYC (April 13), and join award-winning poet Major Jackson for the 20th annual Philbrick Poetry Reading. Benefit Street, ProvidenceAthenaeum.org
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
29
Theater The curtain is closing on The Gamm’s run in Pawtucket this month with one last production of The Bard – As You Like It, April 19–May 27 – before they pack up and move to a new space in Warwick (read more on p. 46). Here are seven other can’t-miss local productions going up this month and beyond. Pirates of Penzance at The Wilbury, May 17–June 3 An irreverent take on an old classic, this performance by the Wilbury will be stocked with songs, wordplay, and pirates, as well as banjos, beach balls, and guitars. Sonoma Court, TheWilburyGroup.org Forever Plaid at The Community Players, April 13–22 In this morbidly funny play, four high schoolers in the 1950s form the musical group Forever Plaid and are then run over by a bus on the way to their first performance. Luckily, they return from the dead to pursue their dreams once more. Pawtucket, TheCommunityPlayers.net
Festival Ballet’s Little Mermaid at The Vets, April 27–29 With choreography from Mark Diamond and music by Borodin, Debussy, and Glière, Festival Ballet brings the classic Hans Christian Anderson tale to the stage. Avenue of the Arts, TheVetsRI.com Menopause the Musical at The Vets, May 10 “Inspired by a hot flash and a bottle of wine,” this musical is here to bring “the Silent Passage” out into the open, with a whole bunch of pop song parodies and lots of celebration. Avenue of the Arts, TheVetsRI.com Native Gardens, April 5–May 6, and Ragtime, April 26–May 27, at Trinity Rep When two couples start to disagree over their back gardens, there’s room for a lot of ill will to grow. Native Gardens is a comedic take on the little things that can blossom into big messes. The classic musical Ragtime, written by Terrence McNally and based on the novel by E. L. Doctorow, examines three characters at the turn of the 20th century as their lives intersect in consequential ways. Washington Street, TrinityRep.com Thinner Than Water at Burbage Theatre Company, April–May Three siblings reunite at the sickbed of their father in this intense production about the challenges of dealing with family. Pawtucket, BurbageTheatre.org
Movies Providence is a film lover’s city: two single-screen art house theaters, a larger format IMAX screen for big budget spectacles, a drive-in and pop-up outdoor screenings in warmer months, and a handful of curated film series. Now that the biting cold is behind us, it’s time to chill with the Netflix. Avon Cinema has been screening films the way they’re meant to be
30
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
Festival Ballet brings Little Mermaid to the stage April 27-29
seen for 80 years. Expect the usual indies, prestige pictures, and Oscar bait throughout the year, but keep an eye out for the occasional screening of stone cold classics that pop up on occasion. Bonus points for the vintage “Let’s all go to the lobby” promo before each screening. Thayer Street, AvonCinema.com Cable Car Cinema and Cafe also scratches that indie flick itch, though they tend to skew a little weirder (in a good way) than the Avon. Lots of documentaries hit the screen, plus annual fests, like the Providence French Film Festival and the Art and Design Film Festival. Current events have played into some classic screenings over the last year: think The Great Dictator and Terminator 2: Judgement Day. South Main Street, CableCarCinema.com The Columbus Theatre doesn’t always screen movies, but when it does it’s worth clearing your schedule. Last year saw the Columbus Film Club run a curated series of films focused on classics with contemporary relevance and female directors, but music docs and the occasional midnight movie have shown up on the marquee too. Broadway, ColumbusTheatre.com There are cinematic deep cuts, and then there are the culty oddballs that the Dreadphile Cinema Club digs up. For the “so bad it’s good” crowd, expect to see this Z-grade film series pop up whenever anyone will let them show movies with titles like TerrorVision, Motel Hell, and Death Spa. Dreadphile.com
Photo by Zaire Kacz with Illustration by James and Ty Parmenter, courtesy of Festival Ballet
Zora Neale Hurston’s Sweat and The Gilded Six Bits at Mixed Magic Theatre, May 4-20 Mixed Magic Theatre founder Ricardo Pitts-Wiley adapts and directs two short stories written by celebrated African American author Zora Neale Hurston for the stage, each exploring race and relationships in the early-20th-century South. Pawtucket, MMTRI.com
Galleries They don’t call this town the Creative Capital for nothing. See exciting works from local artists and makers, as well as art from around the world in the city’s galleries, museums, and studios. Skye Gallery on Broadway opened in October with a mission to support and exhibit fresh, emerging, and underrepresented talent. Its March show, “Divine She,” featured the paintings and drawings of five female artists, and this month, Skye will be hosting the work of Brett Cimino, through April 20 with an opening reception on April 6. In May, the Peruvian-born, Rhode Island–based artist Peruko Ccopacatty, whose 20-years-in-the-making public art installation is currently up in Kennedy Plaza, will be showing paintings, drawings, and sculptures at the gallery. Also on Broadway is World’s Fair Gallery. Run by Willa Van Nostrand of Little Bitte Artisanal Cocktails, the gallery and pop-up space serves as an intersection of culinary and visual arts. Broadway, Skye-Gallery.com; WorldsFairGallery.com New Urban Arts, the West Side out-of-school art program for high schoolers, is turning 21 this month, and will be celebrating with a 21+ birthday bash and silent art auction on April 20. Featuring the work of talented local artists, proceeds from the night will fund NUA’s mission to provide a safe, nurturing environment for the city’s next generation of artists. Westminster Street, NewUrbanArts.org
Photography by Small Frye Photography
Trade Pop-Up in Fox Point hosts exhibits, retail shops, and performances on a rotating basis, with an eye towards empowering artists and bringing together communities. This month, check out “Prince of PVD” (April 5–8) which presents the work of Providence-based artist and producer Cam Bells; “Crown HD” (April 12–15), which will feature new art, photography, and apparel from a high school student– owned company; and “Wounds to Wisdom” (April 19-22), a solo showing of the poetry and paintings of Kyla Laughlin. Governor Street, TradePVD.com
See boundary-pushing work from emerging artists at Skye Gallery on Broadway
Gallery Night By the Numbers Gallery Night Providence returned in March for another season of gallery and studio tours in and around downtown every third Thursday of the month. Looking to hop on the tour bus or explore on your own? Here what you need to know:
19 4
Galleries – including exhibition spaces at City Hall, ArtProv Gallery, RIC, RISD, URI, AS220, and Big Nazo’s studio – that participate in the tour Busses that leave from One Regency Plaza throughout each Gallery Night for guided tours of galleries, studios, and exhibits
22 0
Years Gallery Night has been showing visitors the city’s abundance of artistic riches
American dollars it will cost you to see all of the above
This month’s Gallery Night will be on April 19. GalleryNight.org
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
31
The Rhode Island Hospital Alzheimer’s Disease and Memory Disorders Center Presents
“Countdown to 2025: Progress on Ending Alzheimer’s Disease” An Evening with Alzheimer’s Researchers from Rhode Island Hospital Learn about new developments in the treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease
Brian R. Ott, MD Director of the Alzheimer’s Disease and Memory Disorders Center Professor of Neurology, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University
Lori A. Daiello, PharmD, ScM Assistant Professor of Neurology and Health Sciences, Policy & Practice (Research) The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University
Thursday, April 19, 2018 The Miriam Hospital, Sopkin Auditorium 5 to 7 p.m. 5 p.m. – Refreshments Served 5:30 p.m. – Lecture and Q&A
Seating is limited RSVP by calling 401-444-0789 or emailing memory@lifespan.org
CITY STYLE At Home • The Look • Shop Talk • Whole Body • Get Fit
Repping Retro Style
Photography by Mike Braca
Trinity Rep’s Tom Parrish found a piece of the 1960s off Blackstone Boulevard When Tom Parrish moved to Providence two years ago to take over as executive director of Trinity Repertory Company, he had a specific vision for where he wanted to live. “We love contemporary and modern design,” Parrish says. “There weren’t a lot of options for that style on the East Side. We found this beautiful mid-century home and we’ve spent the last two years brightening it up.” That includes adding hardwood floors to this room but not much
else, in an effort to preserve original features from the 1960s. “The great thing about the home’s design is that it’s all floor-to-ceiling windows on the back and front of the house,” Parrish says. “In the spring and the fall it’s like having the outdoors in.” It’s a cozy room in winter, too, and in a pinch it’s been the setting for various significant moments for Trinity Rep. “Last spring during the winter storm, we couldn’t
do our season announcement from the theater as planned, so Curt Columbus and I did the announcement from here on Facebook Live,” Parrish explains. “We had thousands of people watch us from this room.” That season has included the production of A Christmas Carol that broke the theater’s record for highest-grossing show by 10 percent, and the current production of Native Gardens. TrinityRep.com -Julie Tremaine
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
33
Ladies Ditch Your Eyelash Curlers! 45
$
($75 value)
45
$
($75 value)
LASH LIFTING TREATMENT Last 8-12 weeks • No Glue
Amazing Results
SEMI PERMANENT MASCARA Lasts 3-4 weeks
PACKAGE THESE TWO SPECIALS FOR ONLY $65
Blue Pearl Salon A cut above the rest...
1458 Park Avenue, Cranston • 270-7404 • BluePearlSalon.com
34
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
CITY STYLE • The Look
by Jackie Ignall
The Key to Creative Style
Photography by Stacey Doyle
Caroline Stevens on dressing up for dreary days and jewelry as decor
Though you’ll sometimes find me in a pair of pants, more often than not I’m wearing a dress, and I don’t recall a time in my life when that wasn’t the case. Dresses are both comfortable and classy. I keep my dresses simple and bold, which allows me to keep the focus more on my jewelry. From stacks of Bakelite bracelets to piles of turquoise and antique earrings handed down to me from my mother, I have enough jewelry to fill a (small) closet. My jewelry is not only my personal decor, but also the main decor of my bedroom – I just can’t get enough! When the weather turns dreary, I turn up the color in my wardrobe. In the colder months, you’ll catch me around town in a neon red coat, and when it rains I pop out my rainbow-colored umbrella. Together, it’s a bit much, but that’s never stopped me. I’m all about vintage clothing stores, like The Vault Collective and Carmen & Ginger for clothes, or antique malls and stores such as White Star Antiques. I like a good treasure hunt and Providence has no shortage of gems to find. Behind every door in the city is a story that’s still being written. My passion is finding creative ways to tell these stories and connect people to the places at the heart of our city. This was what inspired me to start Doors Open Rhode Island and plan our first citywide open house festival in Providence this past fall. Now, I’m continuing along this same vein in my work as the executive director of the RI Chapter of the American Institute of Architects. Though Providence is a small city, I’ll never stop finding new exciting places to explore, people to meet, and stories to hear.
Caroline Stevens is wearing her mother’s dress from the ‘70s, along with vintage Bakelite earrings and bangles
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
35
Open Year-Round!
CITY STYLE • Get Fit
by John Taraborelli
Exercise in Disguise Learning the basics of Latin dance is so fun you won’t notice you’re working out
Open Tuesday-Sunday @11:00
Clothing & Accessories for Men & Women, Jewelry, cameras, Linens, Art, Barware and more!
Facebook/IG CarmenandGinger Arcade Providence 65 Weybosset St. 130 Westminster St. Providence, RI carmenandginger@gmail.com
SATURDAY April 28
10:00 - 5:00 An Arcade full of Vendors selling a variety of vintage goods in one place for one day! Free & Open to All
36
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
I’m always on the lookout for exercise classes my fiancée and I can do together. Workouts bore her; she prefers, as she puts it, to do an activity. We’ve tried a handful of things together over the years, including kickboxing, country line dancing, and a perhaps ill-advised session of drunken Zumba in Jamaica. After all, the best kind of exercise is the type of activity that’s so much fun you don’t really notice you’re working out. Hence the appeal of Mambo Pa Ti, a Latin dance company based in Pawtucket. Their beginner’s bachata and salsa classes stack a double shot of dance in a compact two-hour block in the early evening, which is perfect for us. The schedule is manageable, it’s a fun and social activity, and it gets us moving at a time when we might otherwise be binge-watching Netflix. Mambo Pa Ti’s five-week programs teach the basics of two of the most popular styles of Latin dance, and provide open dance time (along with a little wine and cheese) in the studio after class. Both
Mambo Pa Ti’s beginner bachata and salsa classes provide a slow, patient grounding in the choreography
couples and singles can feel at home in the loose, friendly atmosphere created by founder and lead instructor Carlos Gonzalez and his team. Dance classes are always a dicey proposition for me. I consider myself generally pretty competent with most physical activities and I always appreciate an opportunity to get on the dance floor with my fiancée. Unfortunately, I tend to be a bit rhythmically challenged and uncoordinated. Our experience with line dancing, for example, was equal parts fun and frustrating, as I continuously tripped over even the simplest choreography. Fortunately, I had a couple things going for me at the outset of our class, which started with bachata: 1) The foundational steps of bachata fall right inside the simple 4/4 wheelhouse in which I’m comfortable, or at least not totally awkward, and 2) Gonzalez is an excellent teacher. He’s
Photography by Brandon Harmon
Facebook/UrbanVintageBazaar
Unique Backgrounds, Complementary Strengths. patient and relentlessly upbeat and walks the class through each step so slowly and clearly that even I could follow it. Along with a crowd of about 40 other beginners, we walked purposefully though the side-to-side and front-toback rudiments of bachata. One of the important things that Gonzalez does – which I’ve found sorely lacking in other classes – is spend enough time repeating the basics, slowly and without music, for you to develop some muscle memory. He also instills a feeling of camaraderie in his students by frequently rotating people towards the front so that no one can be the wallflower for too long and insisting that everyone count the steps out loud while practicing them. By the time we had combined a few simple steps into something approaching actual choreography, I was pleasantly surprised to find myself keeping up. When it came time to learn dancing with a partner, Carlos organized the entire class into a circle. With the men on the outside, the women would rotate around the room from partner to partner, giving everyone a chance to interact and swap confessions about which steps were still giving us trouble. Sadly, when the second hour began and we moved on to salsa, the small amount of confidence I had developed in my ability to learn a dance quickly crumbled. In contrast to the more straightforward 4/4 rhythm of bachata, the off-kilter 1-2-3, 1-2-3 of salsa proved just tricky enough to have me stumbling over my own feet. Suffice to say, the second hour was a bit more frustrating than the first. The important things, however, were that my fiancée and I enjoyed a fun night out and we barely noticed that we had just exercised for two hours.
Mambo Pa Ti 560 Mineral Spring Avenue , Pawtucket • 475-7880 MamboPaTi.com
Rebecca Mayer
Beth Mazor
Kelly Zexter
Victor Pereira
401-447-8040
508-878-3929
401-225-0502
781-910-1330
We are the Real Estate Collaborative. Whatever your unique real estate needs, you can rely on our combined talents and experience to bring you real results.
REAL ESTATE COLLABORATIVE realestatecollaborative@residentialproperties.com
EAST SIDE PRIMARY CARE WELCOMES
Dr Daniel Valicenti & Sean Eden PA-C NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! Same Day Appointments Available
East Side Primary Care Providence
1195 North Main Street, Providence • 340-1000 ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
37
CITY STYLE • Whole Body
by Julie Tremaine
Fake It Till You Make It A beachy glow in any season with Blush Tan
Mention this ad and receive $50 OFF
WRIKDJ.COM 401.769.1325 x26
VIETNAMESE ENTRÉES & PHO FAVORITES!
MON-THUR 11AM-10PM FRI-SAT 11AM-11PM | SUN 11AM-9PM
50 Ann Mary Street, Pawtucket 401-365-6278 • PhoHorns.com On Providence/Pawtucket line behind LA Fitness 38
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
Blush Tan customizes color with 100 different shades and offers Express Solutions, which set more quickly
especially on my arms, so that there were no streaks and no missed spots. Once I was comfortable with my new color, I started using Blush Tan’s Gradual Tanning Moisturizer, made with vitamin E and coconut oil, and their aloe and rose hip Body Wash, which both helped extend the color and make sure it was everywhere I wanted it to be. I definitely wouldn’t get a spray tan every week, but for a pop of color during a dreary season, it was exactly what I needed.
Blush Tan 170 Dean Street • 658-1219 BlushTan.com
Illustration by Lia Marcoux
DJs | Karaoke | Trivia Music Bingo | Game Shows Photo Booths | Lighting Lawn Games
I got a million compliments during the week I had a spray tan from Blush Tan, the new studio on Federal Hill. Of course, the timing was good: I had just gotten back from a long stretch on the West Coast, and people assumed I had a California glow. I didn’t. I had spent that time away under patio umbrellas and layers of sunblock – because as we all now know, as delicious as the sun feels, it isn’t all that great for us in long stretches. What I did have, though, was 15 minutes with Anna Badalyan, who recently opened the Dean Street location of Blush Tan, and who helped me fake a beachy glow in February. I have to be honest: I had my suspicions about getting a spray tan. The last one I had, probably a decade ago, left me so orange that I looked like I worked in Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory. But Badalyan assured me that I would look totally natural – Blush Tan customizes color with 100 different shades – and since it was going to be a long time before I was going to see a beach again, I gave it a shot. My spray tan was done with the Express Solution, which means that once I was sprayed with the color, I only had to leave it on for about four hours before I could shower. It’s a big upgrade from the Original Solution, which you leave on overnight, but not quite as lightning quick as the Super Express, which is more expensive but sets in two hours. By the next day the color had mellowed into what passed as a totally believable tan, and those compliments I mentioned before started rolling in. What was especially nice about Badalyan’s spray tan was that she was really meticulous about getting the exact right angles,
CITY STYLE • Shop Talk
by Meghan H. Follett
ALL HANDMADE
ALL THE TIME
NOW IN SOUTH COUNTY!
PROVIDENCE 212 Westminster St. 401-272-4285
E. GREENWICH 264 Main St. 401-886-5500
craftlandshop.com @craftland
LARGEST SELECTION OF
VINTAGE FURNITURE
Accessories for Closets and Kitchens
Photography by Meghan H. Follett
One of Providence’s beloved boutiques has more to offer than ever before If you’ve shopped in Providence, you’ve probably heard of Queen of Hearts and Modern Love, beloved downtown staples for fashion and gifts. The joint space got its start when owner Karen Beebe, a former bartender and fashion designer, decided to expand her holiday pop-up shops. Beebe opened Queen of Hearts as an artisan, consignment-based clothing and accessory store; after moving to a new, larger location on Westminster, she transitioned to wholesale in order to offer a wider range of inventory. In 2010, when the neighboring space closed up shop, she opened Modern Love. Today at Queen of Hearts you can find women’s clothing and accessories, including a wide range of sunglasses and jewelry at affordable price points. Modern Love
originated as a shoe store; while the shop has phased out its footwear offerings, its inventory is growing daily, including more home gifts and culinary goods. The selection changes constantly, so be sure to pop by and check out the goods – and grab an adorable piece of jewelry (or five) while you’re at it. 1. 2. 3. 4.
Floral earrings, $22.95 each Sriracha, $14 Rice bowls, $16 each Intimates, $20–$40 (buy 2 get 1 free)
Queen of Hearts and Modern Love 220/222 Westminster Street • 421-1471 ShopQueenofHearts.com
FULL SERVICE ESTATE LIQUIDATIONS 40 Years Experience in Antiques
VINTAGE | POST MODERN ART DECO | ORIENTAL RUGS VINYL RECORDS | FURS
Reliable
FUR NITURE G A L L E RY ty We Buy & Sell Quali
Furniture
881 Westminster Street, Providence 401-861-6872 | rjlgallery@gmail.com ReliableJewelryAndLoan.com
Wed-Fri 11-6 • Sat & Sun 10-4 | Mon & Tues by Appointment ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
39
Experience The Art Of
FEDERAL HILL
Glass Blowing
Lessons Up To 4 People
Famous for Italian Cuisine
LOBSTER | VEAL | STEAKS CHOPS | CHOICE LIQUORS & WINES
1 Hour Class
GLASS BLOWING
E X C L U S I V E LY O N F E D E R A L H I L L !
STUDIO & GALLERY SIGN UP ONLINE!
GatherGlass.com Authentic VenetiAn Jewelry & GlAssworks from itAly, in luminous colors
Gift Certificates Available!
259 Atwells Avenue, Providence 499-5575 • DreamyVenice.com
521 Atwells Avenue, Providence
THE ORIGINAL
Upscale Mexican Cuisine on Historic Federal Hill
CASERTA
22
Celebrating years in Providence
PIZZERIA
A Rhode Island Tradition for over 50 years
Margaritas & Sangria Over 70 Premium Tequilas!
3 Course Dinner
t eating If you’re nRoTA’S, CASE ng pizza! eati you’re not
1. OFF
$ 00
Monday thru Thursday
A DELICIOUS 12-PIECE PIZZA
THERE’S ONLY ONE CASERTA
7 Days A Week For Lunch & Dinner Brunch Saturday & Sunday
Under $10
hair • skin • body aroma • tea • candles
On the Hill • Parking Available
TAKE OUT
272-3618 | 621-3618 | 621-9190 ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
HOLISTIC BEAUTY 2016 & 2017 mention in Yoga Journal
LUNCH SPECIALS
121 Spruce Street, Providence
40
120 Atwells Avenue / 751-5544 www.TheOldCanteen.com
351 Atwells Avenue, Providence 454-8951 • DonJoseTequilas.com
90 Spruce Street, Providence 272-4676 | RosebudSalon.com
GET OUT
Photo courtesy of the Pawtucket Red Sox
Calendar • On Stage • Art • Music
Play Ball April 6: It isn’t really spring until you get to that first Pawtucket Red Sox game. For the first game of the season, the PawSox take on Lehigh Valley. Though Rhode Island may be more evenly split on the Red Sox/Yankees debate (we’re looking at you, Johnston Yankees fans) than our neighboring commonwealth to the north, there’s no denying who our state’s real team is. Boston can have Red Sox Nation – this is PawSox Country. Pawtucket, PawSox.com
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
41
GET OUT • Calender
THE MUST LIST
Spring ahead to these 10 unmissable April events
CBD Oil Products
Tinctures • Oils • Creams • Capsules & More
SPECTRUM -INDIA
Unusual Gifts • Fun Fashions • Energy Crystals • Air Plants & Much More Also: Eyebrow Threading* + Henna Art* Quality Makeup* + Dreadlock Services* Tarot Readings* + Reiki Sessions*
252 Thayer St., Providence *By Appointment
Call: 421-1010 @SpectrumIndia 42
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
1
4
2
5
April 6–June 17: The Providence Athenaeum goes wild with Observing Nature: Edna Lawrence & Cabinets of Curiosities. The exhibit pairs unusual specimens from the RISD Nature Lab with rarely seen items from the Athenaeum’s Natural History Collection. Benefit Street, ProvAth.org
April 12: Frank may be gone, but Dweezil Zappa continues the weird, wild legacy of his old man and his band, the Mothers of Invention. Catch him at the Columbus for his Choice Cuts World Tour and remember: don’t eat the yellow snow. Broadway, ColumbusTheatre.com
April 7: At the Bauhaus Bash, the first DesignxRI Designers Ball, the WaterFire Arts Center will become early modern Germany for one night only, with inventive costumes and Bauhaus-era music and performances. Valley Street, DesignxRI.com
April 14: Steve Martin and Martin Short give PPAC An Evening You Will Forget for the Rest of Your Life, with stand-up comedy, musical numbers, and storytelling. Weybosset Street, PPACRI.org
3
6
April 7: Screenings of Firstworks’ Manual Cinema combine cinematic techniques, shadow puppetry, innovative sound design, and live music. The April 7 movie, Lula del Ray, is inspired by the music of Hank Williams and Patsy Cline. Lloyd Avenue, First-Works.org
April 21: Party like it’s 2001 when Ja Rule & Ashanti play The Strand. The duo has eleven Top 10 albums between them, including their duet “Always on Time.” Washington Street, TheStrandRI.com
Photo by Mathew Clowney courtesy of the RISD Nature Lab
Now Offering!
April 6–June 17: RISD Nature Lab partners with the Providence Athenaeum for an exhibit of unusual specimens
PIZZA’S ON THE LINE. April 14: Steve Martin and Martin Short are coming to PPAC
401 632 0555 7
Photo courtesy of the Providence Performing Arts Center
April 24: Jen Sincero, best-selling author of You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life, comes to The Guild for the paperback release of her new book You Are a Badass at Making Money. Pawtucket, JenSincero.com
BEST SPRAY TAN IN RI
8
April 26–29: Superheroes descend on The Dunk for Marvel Universe Live! Age of Heroes, when Spiderman, Guardians of the Galaxy, and The Avengers join forces to save the world from evil. LaSalle Square, DunkinDonutsCenter.com
9
April 27: Favorites in the local music scene, The Silks bring their unique brand of bluesy Southern rock to The Met for one night only, supported by Sam Morrow. Pawtucket, TheMetRI.com
10
April 27–29: Go under the sea with Little Mermaid, a ballet performance of the classic Hans Christian Andersen tale, performed by Festival Ballet at The Vets. Avenue of the Arts, FestivalBalletProvidence.org
CALL OR TEXT 401.218.8411 FOR AN APPOINTMENT
New Pop-Up Location
1 Richmond Square, Suite 129C, Providence 622 Killingly Street, Johnston All spray tans are organic and vegan
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
43
GET OUT • Music
by Adam Hogue
DISCOVER ArtProv Gallery
Game On Up and coming emcees battle it out on the Alchemy stage at The Culture Games
a contemporary art gallery 150 Chestnut Street Providence | 401 641 5182 ArtProvGallery.com
Check website for current show and weekly hours.
AS YOU LIKE IT BY
WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE
DIRECTED BY
TONY ESTRELLA & RACHEL WALSHE
44
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
Performers duke it out in rap and break battles at the Culture Games on April 26
Since 2013, Lord Gremithy – aka Grem – of hip hop duo DirtyDurdie with partner/producer Dirty Ice – aka Golden Sasquatch – has been hosting a freestyle rap and break battle called The Culture Games with the sole intent of bringing out the creativity in others. It’s a space where performers are given a platform to improvise, challenge, and push themselves into an active scene. At its core, The Culture Games, happening on April 26 at Alchemy, pushes artists to explore the purest form that hip hop can take. “Ninety-five percent of rap battles are written, rehearsed, and performed over no beat, with gun bars and thousands of ways someone can kill me or my family in a rhyme. I knew that this wasn’t all that rap music had to offer to the people,” Grem says. “People keep calling it ‘old
school’ and ‘washed up.’ All of the negative responses, all the doubters, and all the haters of the pure art form is what truly drove me to try something new. Finally, I asked myself, ‘What event around here, or anywhere, has both freestyle rap battles and breakin battles under one roof?’ Did the research and said, ‘Nothing like that is happening anywhere I know of. Okay, let’s make it happen!’” The Culture Games have become a kind of ritual for Grem to bring together the diverse ages and cultures represented in the PVD hip hop scene, allowing every performer to come as they are and express themselves in any way they see fit. The power of giving people a supportive platform to perform is not lost on Grem. “It’s an amazing feeling,” he says. “I truly was underestimating how big this event
Photo courtesy of Jessica Pohl
APRIL - MAY
was. My cousin-in-law [local rapper] Unk-11 was one person who kept telling me I needed to do it more often. He made me see how important it was for the city, for the culture, and for the scene of hip hop on a global scale. In return I told him, ‘If I do this again, you have to enter,’ and from that day on, he started rhyming again after putting it on hold for almost 10 years.” For Grem, The Culture Games, hip hop, and freestyling in particular have been a force for active change in the community. “It give kids like me hope, inspiration, and a chance to make something out of nothing,” Grem says. “Building self encouragement, entrepreneurship, and positive ventilation for your soul, whether listening to or creating your own music. It has benefited many people’s lives [while] dealing with poverty and real life struggles that many privileged human beings couldn’t imagine ever dealing with. Most importantly, it’s the voice for the unheard. It’s a way you can create your own job, employ others, and actually make a living, while building awareness on many social issues and telling the truth of street life in the projects [and] ghettos of America.” With this month’s round of The Culture Games – featuring appearances by DirtyDurdie, Cranston’s own Passionate MC and the AS220 youth group Zu Krew – Grem hopes to see young artists of all ages continue to come out and find their own lane, not focusing only on what media sources tell them is cool, but finding out what hip hop is to them. The Culture Games are a space for creativity and inspiration, inviting people in and letting it happen.
The Culture G ames April 26 at Alchemy 71 Richmond Street
CITY KITTY Veterinary Care for Cats
OMG, Stanley, you’d think she was trying to Im-purr-sonate a Kardashian!
Hey Walter, Did you see that cat yesterday who was wearing a hot pink sweater?
Now In Our Purr-Fect New Home At 400 Hope Street! Find us on Social Media @citykittypvd
!
ME-WOW
Taking care of cats since 1999
400 Hope Street, Providence • 401-831-MEOW (6369) • city-kitty.com ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
45
GET OUT • On Stage
by Marrissa Ballard
The Gamm Says Goodbye After 15 seasons in Pawtucket, The Gamm is making a bittersweet move to Warwick 2018 Exhibition & Program Series
Tony Estrella, Gamm Artistic Director and Pawtucket native: “To call [the move] bittersweet would be an understatement.”
March 1 — June 30
Providence Public Library 150 Empire St. Learn about the exhibition and related programming at:
provlib.org
MEMORY CARE
Call 401.944.2450 To Schedule A Personal Tour
Our uplifting enviroment and special approach to Alzheimer’s and dementia care have created a quality of life you simply can’t get anyplace else.
49 Old Pocasset Road, Johnston, RI briarcliffegardens.com 46
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
In September, The Gamm Theatre announced that it would be taking a final bow at its Pawtucket location and moving to Jefferson Boulevard in Warwick, the former home of the Ocean State Theatre Company. Though the change is tinged with sadness, folks at The Gamm are excited to watch the organization grow. W. Lynn McKinney, Board President, has been with The Gamm since its early beginnings – back when it was founded as Alias Stage – and has witnessed its tremendous development. What stands out? “The quality of performances, the acting, and the choice of really provocative plays,” he says. With so much history in Pawtucket,
McKinney says that it wasn’t an easy decision to move, but their current space has too many limitations, including a lack of space for performances and their artists. “If you envision the theater, the back of the stage was the outside wall of the building,” he explains. “This means that an actor departing stage left had to go outside and walk along the cars to reach stage right.” This obstacle was particularly problematic because the The Gamm runs most of its plays in the winter. The current facility also lacks adequate rooms for the actors; the men currently use a bathroom as their dressing room while the women use a converted boiler room. McKinney also understands why some
Photography by Mike Braca
ASSISTED LIVING RESIDENCE
Sharing Authentic Italian Specialties For Over Four Decades
may be hesitant about the change. However, he says, they will be renovating the new space to fit the intimate atmosphere that they’ve established in their well-loved black box. “Our goal is to develop a theater with under 200 seats without losing the capacity to rent the space for bigger events,” he says. Artistic Director and Pawtucket native Tony Estrella emphasizes that The Gamm will maintain its presence in the city. “When we first started here, Pawtucket was really hoping to use the arts for community building and we were proud to be the center of that,” he says. Through their education programs, like the PLAY (Pawtucket Literacy Arts for Youth) initiative, The Gamm has partnered with almost every classroom in the city from kindergarten through high school. Estrella says that some of his fondest memories are of collaborating and working with students. As for the future, Estrella says that Pawtucket will always remain part of their identity, but he’s excited for this next chapter. “We’ll have a bigger area to play in,” he says. At their annual gala on April 9, The Gamm will say goodbye with a small retrospective of their time in Pawtucket, and they will close this season with As You Like It, which runs from April 19 to May 27. “The chance to do Shakespeare one last time in the space that defined who we are is going to be very special,” Estrella says. Of course, this goodbye will strike a sentimental chord. “To call it bittersweet would be an understatement,” he adds. “So we’ll look back for a bit, and then we’ve got to move on because we have a lot of work ahead of us.”
The G amm Theatre 172 Exchange Street, Pawtucket • 732-4266 GammTheatre.org
Catering For All Occasions! TUESDAY - PASTAMANIA Create you own pasta entrée. $13.99* WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY PREZZO GIUSTO! $13.99-$15.99* BAR BITES - 4 TO 6 TUESDAY-FRIDAY Flat Breads, Apps, Salad, All for $5.99*
1357 Hartford Avenue, Johnston
• 861-3850 • LuigisGourmet.com
Please Join Us For
A Day at the Shore AN AUCTION FOR HOPE
R
SATURDAY, APRIL 28TH | 3-5PM
AT THE HOPE ACADEMY — 1000 EDDY STREET, PROVIDENCE
Lite Bites & Tasty Treats A silent auction & raffle
Benefiting The Hope Academy Public Mayoral Charter School serving students from Providence & North Providence
Hosted by NBC 10’s Parker Gavigan
www.hopeacademyri.org Please rsvp by April 14th to
hopeacademyrsvp@gmail.com CASH & CHECKS ACCEPTED | SPANISH INTERPRETERS AVAILABLE ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
47
Find Peace at
GET OUT • Art
by Amanda M. Grosvenor
Art All Night Security guard V.F. Wolf patrols the RISD Museum while the city sleeps — and then he paints
Full Service Holy Fire Reiki Wellness Studio with Reiki Master Nicole Casale FEATURING UNIQUE GIFTS
From All Over The World
• Handcrafted Items • Handmade Vegan/Gluten Free Natural Soaps & Scrubs Crystals
• • • •
Jewelry Incense Art Home Decor
Reiki by Appointment
(914) 216-8660
150 Broadway, Providence / HolisticHippie.org
Of all the silent galleries he patrols late at night as a security guard at the RISD Museum, the antiquities sections – Egyptian, Greek, and Roman – speak to V.F. Wolf the most. The meticulously excavated and restored treasures of the past remind Wolf of the way he approaches his own paintings: a figurative dig into the secret recesses of his psyche, which he then brings into light, color, and form on the canvas. When his job lets out at 4am, Wolf will often head straight for his small, bright studio in the historic Pawtucket Armory, which he views as a type of “dig site – a psychological dig site.” Like an archaeologist, “sometimes I feel like I’m unearthing things,” he says. “It just feels like there are little mysteries inside each [painting].” He hopes viewers will use their imagination to explore each one and
48
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
envision the story behind it – “to fill in the missing pieces.” For someone with so much on his mind, Wolf converses in an approachable, downto-earth manner. Raised in Providence, he discovered his interest in art fairly young; at 10 years old, he made a weekly cartoon strip for his classmates to enjoy. During junior high and high school, he took several painting and drawing classes, and would even spend his free time “hanging out in art classes” and visiting art museums – including his future workplace. Wolf considers the military to be his first art school. “It taught me discipline and humility: two traits I consider essential to making art.” Unsurprisingly, much of his work as a professional painter has “excavated” themes from his time overseas – especially his earlier work. His paintings run the gamut of subject
Photography by Wolf Mathewson
A lover of ancient history, Wolf strives to create the effect of weather-worn relics in his work, with parts missing color or revealing raw canvas
“David’s knowledge, connections and welcoming personality were a real plus in selling our home.” “David is very responsive, knowledgeable, kind, generous and all around a wonderful agent and person.”
V.F. Wolf ArtProvidence.com
“This was my first home purchase, and David made the process very easy.” “David stood out as honest and genuine.”
THINKING OF SELLING THIS YEAR? You need someone devoted to YOUR needs. Call me today to prepare for Spring success.
DAVID HASSLINGER
401.465.8625
dhasslinger@residentialproperties.com “I highly recommend working with David!” “David is like a stable captain in the crazy emotional ocean of real estate.”
“I’ve bought over 30 properties in my life, and it’s rare to find the whole package that is David Hasslinger.” “David exudes calm and positive energy.” “His proactive nature got us the best house.”
matter, sometimes extremely dark and abstract, and at other times using vibrant colors and irreverent takes on pop culture. Anything that pops into Wolf’s consciousness is fair game for his paintbrush to explore. In terms of technique, he uses oil on panels or canvas, building up one layer after the next, “creating various densities of opacity and transparency. One sees traces of color buried beneath layers, suggestive either of the passage of time or the evidence of previous actions.” The layers are like memories, “creat[ing] resonance” on top of one another. In line with his love for ancient history, Wolf strives to create an effect of time passing, of weather-worn relics like he sees in the museum. “Most of those things had tons of color, and time just wore it away... Most of my stuff’s just like that – some parts of it are missing color, or it’s just raw canvas or linen.” His “fragmented” approach to life and art is an intrinsic part of his character. Of his studio, he says, “I love clutter – for me, chaos breeds ideas.” He’ll often look around at the dozens – if not hundreds – of paintings filling his studio, all different shapes and sizes, and feel inspired to paint more. His works tend to be on the smaller side: “There’s no big manifesto, no declaration. It’s kind of fragmented because that’s how I see the world,” he says. “It’s all fragmented into pieces because I think everything’s subject to change.” Wolf finds both RISD’s collections and its artistic community to be a source of inspiration, and has found a great “home” for his career at ArtProv on Chestnut Street, where he is a featured painter with regular shows and work for sale. His next show will take place from June 6 to July 21 of this year.
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
49
FRESH IS
ALWAYS
IN SEASON
ONCE AGAIN RATED THE
BEST BRUNCH IN RHODE ISLAND
COME BY FOR OUR AWARD WINNING
SUNDAY BRUNCH $31.95 PER PERSON
1149 DIVISION STREET, WARWICK • 401.884.1149 • WWW.ELEVEN49.COM
50
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
FEAST In the Kitchen • On the Menu • Review • In the Drink • Restaurant Guide
FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD! Eat Drink RI returns to Providence for its annual celebration of all things edible Whatever your tastes, you can’t go wrong with 20 food trucks. On April 27, a caravan of mobile kitchens will descend on Providence, serving global treats from their letterbox windows. Why such bounty? The Eat Drink RI Festival is returning for its seventh year running, catering to hungry pedestrians of all stripes – and proceeds will go to the Rhode Island Food Bank. No matter what the weather, you can expect a feisty crowd of food truck enthusiasts cavorting around every vehicle. But noshing outside is only one phase of the four-day fiesta. Eat Drink RI was founded to celebrate the statewide food and beverage
scene, and the bigger your appetite, the better. True foodies can enjoy a lavish, multi-course meal at the Dinner by Dames event (April 26). Not only can you sample the diverse platters of Rhode Island’s most celebrated female chefs, but your admission will also help support Paint the Town (Red) and AIDS Care Ocean State. Save room, though, because there’s also the Grand Tasting at the Rhode Island Convention Center (April 28), a vast bazaar of area vendors. Whether you want to try cuts of locally raised beef or sip locally distilled spirits, you’ll find a cornucopia of fresh new flavors. EatDrinkRI.com –Robert Isenberg
Photography courtesy of Eat Drink RI ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
51
FEAST • Review
by Stephanie Obodda
Beats and Eats Troop mixes street style with global plates in Olneyville
art cohesively curated by local designer Kyla Coburn. Look around for a few minutes and you’ll notice cheeky touches, like the stenciled skateboard on the back of each barstool. My husband was impressed with his Pineapple Upside Down Old Fashioned, a strong cocktail with roasted pineapple, coriander-infused spiced rum, and a boozy dried cherry garnish. The rest of us ordered new-to-us beers off the nicely sized list, such as Elysian’s Hawaiian Sunburn, a pineapple habanero sour. The Foggy Geezer and Lazurite are both IPAs by Danish brewery WarPigs. It’s no surprise that Revival beers are well represented on the menu, as brewer Sean Larkin is a co-owner. Troop’s menu is inspired by global street
food. Funnily enough, most items on the dinner menu are not very portable, and they’re a bit messy to eat, even with utensils. But that’s okay – many good things in life are messy. Occasionally, handheld items like tacos or banh mi make an appearance, especially on the lunch and late-night menus. A surprise standout was The Roots, a high pile of vegetables full of contrasts: raw
CUISINE: Global street food PRICES: $6–$17 ATMOSPHERE: Casual
Jerk chicken, rice and peas, coconut milk, pineapple chutney
52
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
Photography by Stacey Doyle
Not feeling particularly social, we tried to sneak into Troop, Providence’s new hiphop and street-style eatery, at 5pm for a quiet dinner. Instead, we found a large, lively crowd and classic hip-hop blasting from the speakers. If reading this gives you angst about being too uncool for Troop, don’t worry. The atmosphere is inclusive: diners ranged from newborns to seniors, and there was a strong after-work contingent. We felt especially welcomed by our waitress, who was genuinely warm. Troop is the brainchild of Laughing Gorilla Catering. Nestled in Olneyville’s historic mill complex The Plant, the restaurant incorporates dynamic and colorful styling, with street
BO
W
OK
S
EB
&
RE UY CO RD
S
Squid stuffed tubes with Israeli couscous, toasted tomatoes, capers, Kalamata olives
NEW • USED & BARGAIN BOOKS NEW & USED VINYL RECORDS Pre-Orders • New Book Ordering Mail Orders • Gifts Certificates
240 Westminster Street, Providence 401-273-7900 • SymposiumBooks.com store@symposiumbooks.com and roasted, shaved and chunky, soft and crunchy. The Squid was similarly playful, the tentacles breaded and the tender rings left naked. We liked the accompanying sweet miso sauce and snow pea greens. The Street Noodles, medium-thick rice noodles with a sweet sauce, disappeared quickly at our table. The larger dishes on the menu could work as individual entrees, though we preferred to share. Accompanied by chimichurri and yucca fries, the Steak Frites was more South American than French. We fought over the four perfectly cooked pieces of Hangar Steak and wished there had been more. The Korean Short Ribs, served with spicy red sauce and crispy fried noodles, were also exceptionally tender. We appreciated that each of the dishes we ordered had a distinct flavor profile, a characteristic sometimes missing from less deliberate fusion restaurants. The menu has several vegetarian options and the kitchen seems willing to accommodate other dietary needs. Troop usually has a couple of dessert specials. Our Cognac Bread Pudding was moist and boozy, punctuated by tiny slivers
Must-Try Items Bahn Mi
LIVE IN WAYLAND SQUARE!
The beloved Vietnamese sandwich features chicken paté, pickled carrots, and spiced mayo
Street Noodles The urban Asian staple, with rice noodles, veggies, and “street sauce”
The Booty Call A deep red cocktail with Vida Mezcal, Aperol, Carpano vermouth, and black raspberries
Studios 1 & 2 Bedroom Residences Private Penthouse
of bright strawberries. A cute jar of Orange Crème Brûlée was sensibly sized and just big enough to share. When we finished, the crowd was even more animated, the bass thumped loudly, and a disco ball filled the space with playful sparkles. We snuck out the back door just before the dancing started.
24 Hour Fitness Center 24 Hour Concierge Service Papillon Jaune Salon Spa Citron on site All Utilities & Parking Included
Troop 60 Valley Street • 473-2900 TroopPVD.com
Cafės & Boutiques Right Outside Your Door 500 Angell Street, Providence • 751-7700 www.WaylandManor.com • info@waylandmanor.com
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
53
ESTATE SERVICES ONE OF NEW ENGLAND’S LARGEST CONSIGNMENT SHOPS
New Merchandise Arriving 5 Days A Week mikesestateservices.com MONDAY, WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY, FRIDAY, SATURDAY: 10-5 SUNDAY: 11-4 • CLOSED: TUES
15 Factory Street, West Warwick 401-615-7300 Over 8500 sq. ft. of Merchandise 65 Manchester Street West Warwick 401-825-7670 14,000 sq. ft. showroom 54
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
FEAST • In The Kitchen
by Robert Isenberg
Champe Speidel Is a Cut Above The owner of Persimmon describes his technique, his butchering, and his love for fine details On paper, Champe Speidel is a rock star: He owns Persimmon Restaurant on the East Side of Providence with his wife Lisa. He was a James Beard semifinalist for six years running. He even owned his own butcher shop in Barrington, Persimmon Provisions, before closing it in January. Raised in Florida, Speidel came to Providence in 1998 to study at Johnson & Wales, and he’s drawn national attention for his meticulous dishes. But he can also be easygoing and dryly funny, speaking in the contemplative murmur of Marlon Brando. We sat down with Speidel to talk about the twists and turns of his culinary career.
Photography by Robert Isenberg
How did you get into cooking? When I was young, I worked for a few years as a butcher. I knew my way around meat, how to sell it, how to market it. But I didn’t know anything about cooking. My mother is a wonderful cook, and well trained. She never showed us a thing, not even making toast, but I read her cookbooks, and I fell in love. I thought, “Maybe I should go to school for this.” I packed all my stuff up in a U-Haul, and I drove up from Florida, and I never looked back. I lived like a monk for three years, and I worked in as many restaurants in Providence as possible. How did you cut your teeth in the local restaurant scene? I had paid my dues in the meat industry. I had worked for some hardcore rednecks – certifiable. But I didn’t know kitchen culture, so I had to learn that the hard way. I finished school and contemplated going back to Florida, but then I got a job at Gracie’s, on Federal Hill. Within three weeks, the chef just happened to leave. He went to a wedding and never came back. The owners were like, “Hey, can you run the restaurant?” So I did. I took all the time in the world to do things properly. I really love those fussy plates, what they used to call “fine dining.”
Chef Champe Speidel of Persimmon has found success by focusing on two fundamentals – the food and the service
A lot of critics have noted your attention to detail. When I was a kid, I wanted to be a graphic artist. I love the placement, and that’s what drew me to food. You know when something looks right. Persimmon was born in 2005, in Bristol. There were only 37 seats. I didn’t plan to be some kind of well-known chef. We just wanted to focus on the hospitality – the food and the service. Tell me about Persimmon Provisions. So in 2010, I started getting restless. We had a nice rhythm [at the restaurant], but we felt like we were flattening out. We were reading about people going back to the small-town butcher. We had relationships with farmers and livestock producers. So I talked to my wife and said, “What if we opened a butcher shop?” We opened it, and for five years, we were gangbusters.
Why did you decide to close the shop? We had two guys who helped me open [the butcher shop], and they were awesome. They could sell a rack of ribs to anyone. But they moved on, and there was no one to fill their shoes. The restaurant was getting busier. We were getting some national recognition. And the shop just fell to the wayside. I loved the shop, the customers were great, but it started to be this burden. So when our lease was up, we said, “It’s been five years. It’s been a good run.” I wanted to focus more on [Persimmon]. I have a great crew. I only work with people who are obviously happy.
PERSIMMON 99 Hope Street • 432-7422 PersimmonRI.com
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
55
FEAST • On the Menu
by Erin Belknap
One-Stop Shopping at The Pantry A community grocery expands its interior, and its menu
SANDWICH PVD GOES BACK TO BASICS
ALEX AND ANI BREAKS INTO FOOD
At Sandwich PVD, a new Thayer Street pop-up shop, the concept is simple: make good sandwiches. The latest addition to the College Hill deli scene serves up “the works”: breakfast sandwiches, lunch sandwiches, avocado toast, and salmon wraps, all served on little metal trays. True foodies may enjoy Sandwich PVD’s most eccentric items, such as the mac-and-cheese-infused Umac sandwich, or the sandwich made of sliced beets and apple. But you can always just build your own, with a diverse selection of wraps, rolls, meats, and toppings. True to its forward-thinking neighborhood, Sandwich PVD has gluten-free and vegetarian options as well. Thayer Street, SandwichPVD.com
It’s hard to believe that the Alex and Ani brand has only existed for 14 years. Since then, owner Carolyn Rafaelian has built a bijoux empire, graced the cover of Forbes Magazine, and fashioned jewelry out of the Statue of Liberty’s original copper. Now, the native Rhode Islander is launching a string of restaurants across her home state. Four different locations of Bar and Board will open in 2018 and early 2019, starting with a location at Wayland Square and followed by a second on Newport’s Thames Street. Both venues, formerly containing Teas and Javas cafes, are undergoing major renovations. Though the full concept has yet to be revealed, the logo of a leopard promises “locally sourced quality victuals.” Wayland Avenue, BarAndBoard.com
56
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
Photo courtesy of (top) The Pantry Avenue N, (bottom) Sandwich PVD
For its first five years, The Pantry at Avenue N was a modest delicatessen, offering prepared foods and quick bites. Today, it’s grown into a fully equipped community marketplace. Owned by married couple Nick and Tracy Rabar, The Pantry has long been committed to providing farm-to-table foods and locally sourced goods. The Pantry’s “version 2.0” opened in December, introducing an expanded lunch menu and a larger selection of prepared foods. Local products now include dairy, fresh-cut meats, baked goods, seafood, and a range of grab-and-go items. The menu and seasonal products may vary, so visit The Pantry’s website to stay updated on what’s available and upcoming promotions. Rumford, AvenueAmericanKitchen.com
FEAST • In The Drink
by Meghan H. Follett
Blake's Tavern, Where Everyone Feels At Home!
New Beautiful Banquet Room Private Parties & Events Up To 120 Guests 2 Bars & Dining Rooms Open 7 Days • Online Ordering
122 Washington Street Providence • 274-1230
A Drink for the Gods
Tony Award-winning musical
Ragtime
Photography by Meghan H. Follett
Celebrating life with cocktails at Kleos The Dionysus is a special drink, and not just because of its mythical reference. The owners of Kleos, Lauren Lynch and Tom Bovis, named their newborn son Dionysus at the suggestion of their bar manager Deanna Marandola. Kleos’ cocktail menu specializes in Greek twists on classic drinks, and Dionysus (a.k.a. Dino) is the namesake of this homage to an after-dinner Trinidad Sour – just as Kleos’ version of an Old Fashioned is named after Dino’s brother, Hercules. This cocktail is both refreshing and potent, with a flavor profile that stands up to Kleos’ modern Greek fare. The concoction marries black fig-infused vodka and Skinos Mastiha (a liqueur made from the resin of the Mastiha tree). The flavor is uniquely herbal and floral and doesn’t overwhelm the
palate. So raise your glass to Dionysus, god of the grape harvest and wine, and to Dino, his namesake.
book by Terrence McNally music by Stephen Flaherty • lyrics by Lynn Ahrens based on the novel Ragtime by E.L. Doctorow
DIONYSUS • 2 oz. black fig-infused vodka • 1 oz. Skinos Mastiha • 1 oz. lemon juice • 3 dashes Angostura Bitters Shake with ice and strain into a sugar-rimmed glass, garnish with grapes and mint
April 26 – May 27 Kleos 250 Westminster Street • 443-4083 Facebook.com/KleosPVD
Tickets start at $25 • (401) 351-4242 • TrinityRep.com 201 Washington St., Providence SponSorED by
SEASon SponSorS
L To r: rAchAEL wArrEn, wiLkiE FErguSon iii & chArLiE ThurSTon
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
57
CAMP
RAMSBOTTOM • • • •
June 25 – August 17 Convenient, safe, affordable Professional, caring staff 50+ years of creating lifelong memories!
TED NEWLY RENOVA ! POOL FOR 2018
SUMMER PROGRAM JUNE 18 – JULY 13, 8am-4pm
A bilingual day camp on the East Side of Providence for children ages 3-10 years old.
Call 401.722.8840 or visit bgcpawt.org to learn more! 75 John Street, Providence | 401.274.3325 | www.FASRI.org
Use code PM when registering and be entered to win one of five free sessions at Camp Ramsbottom (entry deadline 7/1/18).
Providene Monthly (Summer Camps Section) Size: 1/6 page 2.375”w x 4.75”h
58
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
camp ad 2 2018 _Layout 1 2/23/18 2:10 PM Page 1
Get a jump on summer camps at Gordon Science, theater, sports and more
gordonschool.org/ camps Nursery through eighth grade East Providence, RI Education with impact
SUMMER AT LINCOLN SCHOOL
Little Lynx Lincoln at Camp Agawam Acting Camp Surf Camp Girl on a Hike Ultimate Drone Obstacle Challenge 3D Toy Design Drone Racing & Obstacle Course Challenge Code Like A Girl STEAM Exploration
For more information and to register, visit lincolnschool.org/camps
SUMMER CAMPS & COURSES
2D, 3D, AND DIGITAL ART & DESIGN STEAM OFFERINGS, TOO! Full-day camps and half-day courses
KIDS & TEENS AGES 6 TO 17
ce.risd.edu RHODE ISLAND SCHOOL OF DESIGN Division of Continuing Education
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018 59
Limited Edition for Mother’s Day
RESTAURANT GUIDE Key: B breakfast Br brunch L lunch D dinner $ under 10 $$ 10–20 $$$ 20+
ON THE WEST SIDE
Twice Told Tales
The Grange
Uno de 50 • Trollbeads • Crabtree & Evelyn 2145 Broad Street, Cranston • 785-9599 • twicetoldtalesri.com
FOR KIDS AGES 8-18
FULL + HALF DAY FENCING CAMPS
RIFAC.com
(401) 434-2404 East Providence Professional Coaches
THE IMPERIAL ROOM AT ONE RHODES PLACE
With a seasonal, vegetarian menu that is completely dependent on what’s growing regionally, The Grange works closely with the Farm Fresh network and directly with a handful of farmers. Using only in-season produce can be challenging, but it also
fosters creativity. That innovative spirit is evident everywhere at The Grange, where everything is handcrafted. Even the bar, which has been lauded for its progressive cocktail program, uses scratch syrups and herb-infused spirits.
166 Broadway, Providence 831-0600, ProvidenceGrange.com
PROVIDENCE AREA
A beautiful banquet venue, centrally located in the historic Edgewood / Pawtuxet area of Cranston, Rhode Island AS SEEN ON
WEDDINGWIRE.COM 5-STAR RATING
“Everything was well over what I expected. Everything went off on time and the food was great.” One Rhodes Place, Cranston 467-7102 • RIShriners.com 60
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
10 Prime Steak & Sushi Fashionable prime steakhouse with award-winning sushi. 55 Pine St, Providence, 453-2333. LD $$$ Blake’s Tavern Premier Irish pub with two event rooms in the heart of downtown Providence. 122 Washington St, Providence. 274-1230. LD $$ Caserta Pizzeria Casual neighborhood pizza place serving pies since 1953, and home of the “Wimpy Skippy.” 121 Spruce St, Providence, 6213618. LD $-$$$
CAV Eclectic cuisine and art in a historic setting. 14 Imperial Pl, Providence, 751-9164. BrLD $$-$$$ Chapel Grille Gourmet food overlooking the Providence skyline. 3000 Chapel View Blvd, Cranston, 944-4900. BrLD $$$ Character’s Cafe & Theatre 82 Hybrid art space with all-day breakfast, coffee, and theaterinspired entrees. 82 Rolfe Sq, Cranston, 4909475. BL $ Don Jose Tequila’s The first Mexican restaurant on Federal Hill serves upscale entrees and a
spectrum of tequilas. 351 Atwells Avenue, Providence, 454-8951. LD $-$$$ Francesca’s on Pawtucket Breakfast diner and Mexican restaurant rolled into one. 526 Pawtucket Avenue, 724-9900. BL $-$$ Harry’s Bar & Burger Called the “Best Burger in America” by CNN. Over 50 craft beers. 121 N Main St, Providence, 228-7437; 301 Atwells Ave, 228-3336. LD $-$$ Haruki Japanese cuisine and a la carte selections with casual ambience. Locations in Cranston and Providence, HarukiSushi.com. LD $-$$
Fra mi
ng
n
Gallery
Printing
st
tio ora
Re
n
o ati all t s n
I
Heng Authentic Thai street food served – including noodles and rotisserie chicken – in Providence’s College Hill neighborhood. 165 Angell St, Providence. LD $ Iron Works Tavern A wide variety of signature American dishes in the historic Thomas Jefferson Hill Mill. 697 Jefferson Blvd, Warwick, 739-5111. LD $-$$$ Joe Marzilli’s Old Canteen Classic Italian restaurant with white tablecloth interior and ample wine selection. 120 Atwells Avenue, Providence, 751-5544. LD $-$$$ Julian’s A must-taste Providence staple celebrating more than 20 years. 318 Broadway, Providence, 861-1770. BBrLD $$ LaMei Hot Pot Authentic Chinese cuisine in a unique, casual setting. 256 Broadway, Providence, 831-7555. LD $$ Luigi’s Restaurant & Gourmet Express Handmade Italian classics and prepared foods to go. 1457 Hartford Ave, Johnston. 455-0045, LuigisGourmet.com. LD $$ Luxe Burger Bar Build Your Own Burger: You dream it, we build it! 5 Memorial Blvd, Providence, 621-5893. LD $ Meeting Street Cafe BYOB eatery with large menu of breakfast, lunch, and dinner served all
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
61
RESTAURANT GUIDE For full restaurant profiles, go to ProvidenceOnline.com Rhode Island’s Premiere Piano Care Specialists
We Do Tunings • Repairs • Restoration And Whole Lot More! Visit us online for our full suite of services
day. 220 Meeting St, Providence, 273-1066. BLD $-$$ Mill’s Tavern Historic setting for New American gourmet. 101 N Main St, Providence, 272-3331. D $$$
419-6509 OR
Book Online
PianoPracticeRI.com
CAV
Ocean State Sandwich Company Craft sandwiches and hearty sides. 155 Westminster St, Providence, 282-6772. BL $-$$ Parkside Rotisserie & Bar American bistro specializing in rotisserie meats. 76 South Main St, Providence, 331-0003. LD $-$$ Pat’s Italian Fine Italian favorites, natural steaks and handcrafted cocktails. 1200 Hartford Ave, Johnston, 273-1444. LD $-$$$
LUNCH & DINNER DAILY BRUNCH SAT. & SUN.
Private Parties & Functions 14 Imperial Place, Providence | 751-9164 | CavRestaurant.com
Pho Horns Laid-back Vietnamese eatery specializing in the famed noodle bowls. 50 Ann Mary Street, Pawtucket, 365-6278. LD $-$$ Pizza J A fun, upbeat atmosphere with thincrust pizza, pub fare, and gluten-free options. 967 Westminster St, Providence, 632-0555. LD $-$$
Ave, Providence, 270-3737. BrLD $$-$$$ Tortilla Flats Fresh Mexican, Cajun, and Southwestern fare, cocktails, and over 70 tequilas. 355 Hope St, Providence, 751-6777. LD $-$$ Trinity Brewhouse American pub fare and craft beer in a downtown setting, with lunch, dinner, and late-night menus. 186 Fountain Street, Providence, 453-2337. LD $-$$ Twin Oaks Family restaurant serving an extensive selection of Italian and American staples. 100 Sabra St, Cranston, 781-9693. LD $-$$$ Wright’s Farm Restaurant Cooking hearty dishes since 1974, each item served as “familystyle” platters. 84 Inman Road, Harrisville, 7692856. LD $-$$$ XO Cafe Acclaimed farm-to-table cuisine with a fantastic Sunday #PajamaBrunch. 125 N Main St, Providence, 273-9090. BrD $$
SOUTHERN RI
YIAYIA MARIA’S A TASTE OF GREECE
Enjoy Our April Sandwich Of The Month With A Cup Of Soup DELICIOUS PREPARED FOODS, HOMEMADE SOUPS/SALADS & DELI SANDWICHES
Catering Available
1674 CRANSTON STREET, CRANSTON / 946-0400
Public Kitchen & Bar American food with changing daily specials. 120 Francis St, Providence, 919-5050. BrLD $-$$ Red Stripe Casual French-American bistro. 465 Angell St, Providence, 437-6950; 455 Main St, East Greenwich, 398-2900. BrLD $$ Siena Impeccable Italian cuisine. Locations in Providence, East Greenwich, and Smithfield, 521-3311. D $$-$$$ Tavolo Wine Bar and Tuscan Grille Classic Italian cuisine with an extensive wine and beer list. 970 Douglas Pike, Smithfield, 3494979. LD $-$$ The Grange Vegetarian restaurant serving seasonal dishes with a juice bar, vegan bakery, and cocktail bar. 166 Broadway, Providence, 831-0600. BrLD $-$$ The Salted Slate An agri-driven American restaurant with global influences. 186 Wayland
84 Inman Road, Harrisville | 769-2856 | WrightsFarm.com 62
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
Beach Rose Cafe A neighborly mix of cafe and diner, with sandwiches and seafood. 85 Brown Street, North Kingstown, 294-7900. BL $-$$ Celestial Cafe Fresh, locally sourced ingredients from farms and fisheries for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 567 South County Trail, Exeter, 295-5559. BLD $$ Coast Guard House A new American menu with a seafood emphasis and extensive wine list, open seven days a week. 40 Ocean Rd, Narragansett, 789-0700. BrLD $$$ Colvitto’s Pizza & Bakery Pizza Calzones and baked goods made fresh daily. 91 Point Judith Rd, Narragansett, 783-8086. BrLD $ Dan’s Place Upbeat, family-friendly restaurant with inventive dishes and pizza. 880 Victory Highway, West Greenwich,
392-3092. LD $-$$$ Dan’s Carriage Inn Stone-walled pub serves burgers, wings, and barbecue, and can host large groups. 1065 Tower Hill Road, North Kingstown, 294-0466. LD $-$$$ Dante’s Kitchen American food with Southern flair. 315 Main St, East Greenwich, 398-7798. BL $-$$ Eleven Forty Nine City sophistication in the suburbs. 1149 Division St, Warwick, 884-1149. LD $$$ Fitzy’s Pub Casual family restaurant full of pints and comfort food. 5702 Post Road, East Greenwich, 884-1009. LD $-$$$ Frankie’s Italian Bistro Fine dining with imported wines from around the world. 1051 Ten Rod Rd, North Kingstown, 295-2500. D $-$$$ George’s of Galilee Fresh caught seafood in an upscale pub atmosphere. 250 Sand Hill Cove Rd, Narragansett, 783-2306. LD $-$$ Maddie’s Restaurant Seafood specialists know all the ways to prepare the bounty of the sea. 2706 South County Trail, East Greenwich, 885-8100. LD $-$$
Sea Our Specials BUCK-A-SHUCK Sparkle & Pop Monday-Friday 3-6pm
PRIME TIME WELLINGTON WEDNESDAY Sunday & Monday Seafood or Beef Prime Rib $24.95 Wellington $25.95
THROWBACK THURSDAY 11/2 Lobster Dinner $25.17
CANDLELIGHT NIGHTS 2nd Tuesday of the month
40 Ocean Road, Narragansett, RI 401.789.0700 • thecoastguardhouse.com
Get your treats & fill your basket at Sweenor’s Chocolates!
Mariner Grille Seafood, steaks, and pasta in a fun setting, with live entertainment. 140 Point Judith Rd, Narragansett, 284-3282. LD $$ Pasquale’s Pizzeria Napoletana Authentic Neapolitan wood-fired pizza with exclusive ingredients imported from Naples. 60 S County Commons Way, South Kingstown, 783-2900. LD $-$$
EASTER IS APRIL 1ST
Red Stripe Casual French-American bistro. 465 Angell St, Providence, 4376950; 455 Main St, East Greenwich, 398-2900. BrLD $$ Rocco’s Bistro Top-notch pub and grill specializing in burgers. 219 Main Street, East Greenwich, 398-2940. LD $-$$$
Wakefield • 783.4433 | Garden City • 942.2720 www.sweenorschocolates.com ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
63
Immersive Virtual Reality Gaming & Experiences LICENSED & INSURED
WITH 40 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
WALK-IN INSTALLATIONS 286 Thayer St, Providence - (401) 354-2895
221 Admiral Street, Providence • 421-7030 A1RestaurantSupply.com
MERCEDES VOLKSWAGEN MINI
PORSCHE BMW AUDI
AUDI
MERCEDES BENZ
VOLKSWAGEN
MINI COOPER
“QUALITY WORK” “I used to get my car serviced at the dealership until I found out about German Motors. Customer service and the quality of the work are excellent. The price is far more reasonable than the dealer. I would highly recommend German Motors, and wish I had found them earlier.” – Donna C., Providence, "Mercedes C Class"
G
ERMAN
Sales &
MOTORS
INC
Service
879 North Main Street, Providence, RI 02904, 401-272-4266 Email us at: germanmotorshelp@gmail.com
PORSCHE BMW AUDI MERCEDES BENZ VOLKSWAGEN
BMW
www.BaseStationVR.com
BEAUTIFUL PRE-OWNED JEWELRY
ed & Ins
ed
EXHAUST HOOD DESIGNS & INSTALLATION
ns
ur
Lic e
New & Used Food Service Equipment
Custom S/S Fabrication NFPA & BOCA Member
MASTER ELECTRICIAN
Call Bill Hendrickson for Quality Service with Pride!
401-769-7992 Where you’ll always find
the brightest SMILES! • Veneers • Crowns • Dentures • Family Dentistry • Tooth Whitening
COME IN AND SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY!
1271 North Main Street, Providence • 437-8421 358 Broad Street, Providence • 273-7050
DentPlus Dental Center
Your Downcity General and Cosmetic Specialist 66 KENNEDY PLAZA PROVIDENCE | 401-454-3000 WWW.DENTPLUSDENTAL.COM
MINI COOPER BMW AUDI MERCEDES BENZ VOLKSWAGEN
RESTAURANT GUIDE Providence Media Directory Ads
Sonoma Bistro Sleek decor and mouthwatering steaks make this the perfect date. Providence Monthly – March295-0800. 7, 2018 7366 Post Road, North Kingstown, LD $-$$$ East Side Monthly – March 2, 2018 Tavern by the Sea Waterfront European/ Ad size: 2.375" x 2.25" American bistro. 16 W Main St, Wickford, 2945771. LD $$
February 23, 2018 CoveApril A traditional and grill Issuesbar - 2018
The serving burgers, sandwiches, and classic New England seafood favorites. 3963 Old Post Rd, Charlestown, 364-9222. LD $$
burgers and an expansive craft beer selection. 36 South County Commons Way, South Kingstown, 783-7888. D $-$$
EAST BAY / NEWPORT Aviary Creative, locally sourced menu featuring rotating craft beers and fromscratch cocktails. 2229 GAR Highway, Swansea, 508-379-6007. BrLD $$
The Trap Hip brew pub and music venue with fine American fare. 195 Old Forge Road, East Greenwich, 884-3810. LD $-$$
Blount Market & Kitchen Traditional New England seafood summer favorites offered year-round for dine-in and takeout. 406 Water St, Warren, 245-1800. LD $$
Twin Willows Fresh seafood and water views in a family-friendly atmosphere. 865 Boston Neck Rd, Narragansett, 789-8153. LD $-$$
Bluewater Bar and Grill Casual restaurant with modern seafood dishes, patio seating, and live music. 32 Barton Ave, Barrington, 247-0017. LD $$-$$$
Uptown Burger Traditional diner with organic
Chomp Upscale comfort food featuring
64
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
award-winning burgers and sandwiches. 440 Child St, Warren, 289-2324. D $$ East Bay Oyster Bar Local seafood meets innovative preparation in a rustic setting. 308 County Rd, Barrington, 247-0303. LD $$ Ichigo Ichie Traditional Japanese cuisine, creative sushi, and hibachi. 5 Catamore Blvd, East Providence, 435-5511. LD $-$$$ Redlefsen’s European-style dining with a waterfront view focusing on traditional German foods. 444 Thames St, Bristol, 2541188. LD $$ Tav Vino Waterfront dining with an Italian and seafood focus. 267 Water St, Warren, 245-0231. D $$ The Old Grist Mill Tavern Fine dining located over the Runnins River. 390 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, 508-336-8460. LD $-$$$
PUT MORE IN. GET MORE OUT OF LIFE. We all want more. More energy. More strength. More results. Orangetheory is designed to give you that, and more. Our workout changes you at the cellular level, and is scientifically proven to give you a longer, more vibrant life.
60-MINUTE, HEART RATE-BASED GROUP WORKOUT WALK/JOG/RUN CATEGORIES SO YOU CAN SET YOUR OWN PACE SCIENTIFICALLY DESIGNED FOR MORE ENERGY, STRENGTH AND VITALITY
Book a free workout* at ORANGETHEORYFITNESS.COM
OTF Providence 563 N Main St, Providence, RI 02904 401-369-8006 *First-time visitors and local residents only. Certain restrictions apply. $28 minimum value. At participating studios only. Orangetheory®, OTF® and other Orangetheory® marks are registered trademarks of Ultimate Fitness Group LLC. ©Copyright 2018 Ultimate Fitness Group LLC and/or its affiliates.
HIDDEN PVD
by Ben Berke
The Palace on Power Street The site of Buddy’s infamous fireplace log debacle can now be your home For a short while, a well-heeled local can call Residential Properties and live out a first-rate Providence fantasy: renting the former home of Buddy Cianci. It was during divorce proceedings in 1982 that then-mayor Buddy Cianci moved into 33 Power Street as a renter. His wife wanted $500,000 and, in the sunken living room, Buddy tortured her alleged lover in an attempt to extort the entirety of the settlement. The assault cost Buddy his mayorship, but he soon bought the house. And before long, 33 Power Street was again a palace to the Prince of Providence, or at least a section of it was. (During his second round of mayoral Photography by Babaak Parcham 66
ProvidenceOnline.com • April 2018
campaigning in the 1990s, Buddy subdivided the building to avoid foreclosure.) It was from the unit’s foyer that Buddy opened the door to an FBI agent in 1999. By 2003, he’d sold the house and moved into federal prison. Residing halfway up College Hill, the city’s first Italo-American mayor never truly summited that well-preserved bastion of Yankee power. And of all houses to be perched halfway up College Hill, this one was a former horse stable. Buddy’s gone, but 33 Power Street can still be yours: four bedrooms, six bathrooms, for $7,500 a month.
16 Twelfth Street East Side of Providence $439,000 401.274.6740
333 Atwells Avenue, Unit 209 Federal Hill $320,000 401.274.6740
35 Sheldon Street, Unit 1 East Side of Providence $379,000 401.274.6740
#1 in RI Homes Sold For Three Consecutive Years (PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS BOOK OF LISTS)
Barrington Cumberland East Greenwich Narragansett Providence Relocation
401.245.9600 401.333.9333 401.885.8400 401.783.2474 401.274.6740 800.886.1775
ResidentialProperties.com
165 Arnold Avenue Cranston /Edgewood $330,000 401.274.6740
37 Langham Road East Side of Providence $369,000 401.274.6740
98 Pocasset Avenue Silver Lake $169,000 401.274.6740
320 Wayland Avenue, Unit 2 East Side of Providence $305,000 401.274.6740