Photographer Fillipe Jasso talks to us about gender, art, and home. This Q&A is the first in a series created in collaboration with Arts Commons to expand the cultural conversation of Calgary.
We acknowledge the traditional territories and the value of the traditional and current oral practices of the Blackfoot Confederacy, the Tsuut’ina, the Iyarhe Nakoda Nations, the Otipemisiwak Métis Government of the Métis Nation within Alberta District 6, and all people who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta.
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We take a peek inside two of our favourite local independent cafes — The Roasterie and I Love You Coffee Shop — and a few more that are roasting their own beans and providing incredible ambiance.
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What to do and see this month across the city.
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Don’t miss Takao Tanabe’s perfect prairie landscapes on at the Glenbow at the Edison. This is the last show planned for this pop-up space downtown.
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Thirteen prairies performing arts groups — including the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, Alberta Ballet, and Calgary Opera — have banded together to create the Prairies Live Campaign and grow and diversify audiences.
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Get ready to get Wild! Calgary’s first ever professional women’s sports club is also one of the founding members of Canada’s first professional women’s soccer league.
Cover: Paca Prazi at The Roasterie by Michael Swierczek
Kenna Burima, Sarah Comber, Cam Hayden, Benjamin Heisler, Evaline Pak, Viancy Salubre, Krista Sylvester, Mary-Lynn Wardle, Abbey Whitehead
Client Support Coordinator Alice Meilleur
Senior Account Executive Jocelyn Erhardt
Account Executives Nadine Benoit, Vicki Braaten
Administrative and HR Manager Tara Brand
CEO and co-owner Roger Jewett
President and co-owner Käthe Lemon
Design Director Steve Collins
We gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Alberta and the Government of Canada
The Scene is a member of the Alberta Magazine Publishers’ Association and abides by its professional standards. redpointmedia.ca 1721 29 Avenue SW, Suite 375, Calgary, AB, T2T 6T7
Music Calgary was created as a legacy project of the city hosting the JUNOs in 2008. This month the non-profit hosts SoundOff Summit, a combination conference and local music festival at venues around the city for both professional musicians and those who love them.
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How do you get to the Jack Singer Concert Hall? Practice, practice, practice. Kenna Burima explores what practice means as both a noun and a verb.
20 Venue: Mikey’s 22 Cam Hayden
PHOTO: COURTESY FELIPE JASSO
La Catrina (2019)
ACT 1 SCENE 1
What to do in November
COMPETE ON A GAME SHOW, CATCH A FILM FESTIVAL, AND HIT UP A MARKET.
BY VIANCY SALUBRE
HARMONY THE MUSICAL
With songs and performances acted in Cantonese, Harmony The Musical honours the strength and impact of the Chinese community in a beautiful and heartbreaking retelling of immigrant experiences. English subtitles accompany each show for all crowds to take part in. Experience this musical at the Bella Concert Hall at Mount Royal University on November 2 Visit harmonymusical.ca for more information.
BD&P WORLD STAGE SOCIAL TANGO
The Social Tango Project brings Tango’s passion and romance from Argentina’s neighbourhoods to Calgary on November 3. The intricate footwork and evocative storytelling of milonga dominate the Jack Singer stage, choreographed by the multidisciplinary artist Agustina Videla and performed by 10 dancers. At the same time, documentary photos and films by Argentine photographer Nora Lezano reveal the rich history behind the dance. After the show in the lobby, audiences are invited to a group milonga featuring local dancers and live instruction. Visit Artscommons.ca/social-Tango for tickets and more information.
CALGARY EUROPEAN FILM FESTIVAL
For 10 days, the European Union in Canada has partnered with the Calgary European Film Festival to present films from all over the EU to Albertans. From November 1 to 10, experience these captivating foreign flicks at Calgary’s beloved Globe Cinema for just $17 a movie. Check out calgaryeuropeanfilmfestival.ca for the line-up and ticket information.
DUMPLING FEST CALGARY
A world of flavour awaits in Calgary’s historic Chinatown at Dumpling Fest on November 6 Enjoy locally made dumplings from cultures worldwide, prepared by restaurants from all over the city. All tickets include full-tasting plates for all attendees. Visit eventbrite.ca/dumplingfest for tickets.
THE PRICE IS RIGHT LIVE
Get in it to win it with a thrilling real-life game of The Price Is Right! Randomly selected audience members participate in this TV show’s familiar games and challenges to win prizes. Spin the wheel on November 9 at the Grey Eagle Event Centre. Visit greyeagleresortandcasino.ca to buy tickets.
VERTIGO THEATRE PRESENTS: MURDER ON THE LINKS
From November 16 to December 15, Vertigo Theatre brings Agatha Christie’s classic murder mystery novel The Murder on the Links to the base of the Calgary Tower. In this tale of an unexpected murder on a golf course, legendary detective Hercule Poirot must hound his way through deception and misinformation to solve an intriguing crime. This energetic adaptation features a cast of six actors playing over 30 characters! Visit vertigotheatre.com for more information.
CUFF DOCS DOCUMENTARY FILM FESTIVAL
Calgary Underground Film Festival’s highly anticipated Documentary Film Festival returns
to the city with another year of engaging short and long-form features. Over 15 non-fiction films take to the screens, exploring various subjects and mediums. The vibrant line-up hits Globe Cinema November 20 to 24 Visit calgaryundergroundfilm.org to learn more.
LOCKED LIBRARY: FORCE OF NATURE
Untangle a mystery in a game of puzzles, riddles, and investigation while exploring all library floors to crack the code. The Locked Library event roars to life on November 22 with a wilderness-themed escape room at the Calgary Central Public Library. Visit libraryfoundation.ca to learn more.
CALGARY JUSTICE FILM FESTIVAL
Since 2006, the Calgary Justice Film Festival has screened good films to do go. This year, the CJFF will screen 21 films over three days from November 21 to 23 at The Confluence (formerly Fort Calgary). The selected films include documentaries from across the world about social, environmental and economic justice. Admission to each film is free and
screenings are followed by a discussion with filmmakers and local experts. The festival also features a Peace Market on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Visit justicefilmfestival.ca for more information.
UNDER $200 AND UNDER $100 ART SHOW
Since 2008, Artspot has been producing the annual Under $100 Art Show in Calgary. This year they’ve added an extra weekend highlighting larger scale art work with the Under $200 Art Show. The shows run three consecutive weeks on Thursdays through Sundays. At press time the location had not been confirmed. Visit under100artshow.com for more information and tickets.
CIRQUE MUSICA HOLIDAY WONDERLAND
On November 29, swing into an enchanting night of acrobatics and holiday harmonies at the 15th(!) anniversary edition of Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland. Don’t miss this high-flying cast of talented circus entertainers and musicians this Christmas. Visit winsport.ca/wonderland to twirl into the action.
PHOTO: FIFTH WALL MEDIA
Murder on The Links
PHOTO: PAULA BITNER, LIMELIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY
Locked Library at Calgary Central Library
TEAM BUILDING ON THE BEACH
ACT 1
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On stage in November
BY NATHAN ILES
JAZZYYC CANADIAN FESTIVAL
Held annually during the second weekend of November, this bumpin’ four-day event showcases the finest jazz musicians from Calgary and across Canada. This year’s performers include JUNO winner Jocelyn Gould, local jazz stalwarts the Ninth Avenue Band, and Edmonton rapper Cadence Weapon, whose 2021 album Parallel World won Canada’s Polaris Music Prize. November 6 to 10, various venues, jazzyyc.com
SKEPSIS
UK producer Skepsis imports a bumpin’ blend of bassline and drum & bass bangers to Calgary this fall, presented by STACKED and 403DNB. November 7, 9 p.m. at Commonwealth, 731 10 Ave S.W., commonwealthbar.ca
JANE SIBERRY
Fish Creek Concerts is one of Calgary’s best-kept secrets, bringing diverse musical acts to south Calgary since 2006. Don’t miss it when Canadian singer-songwriter Jane Siberry takes to the stage at River Park Church. (Danny Michel & Steve Poltz also play on the 23rd.) November 9, 7:30 p.m. at River Park Church, 3818 14a St. S.W., fishcreekconcerts.com
DEATH FROM ABOVE 1979 W/ TEEN MORTGAGE
This Canadian two-piece is celebrating the 20th anniversary of their landmark dance-punk album You’re a Woman, I’m a Machine by performing the whole dang thing, cover to cover. November 13, 7 p.m. at The Palace, 219 8 Ave. S.W., thepalacetheatre.ca
KIM MITCHELL
“Go For Soda,” “Rock N Roll Duty,” “Patio Lanterns;” the hits from Canadian legend Kim Mitchell just don’t stop coming, and this fall, they land in Tsuut’ina Nation. November 13, 6:30 p.m. at the Grey Eagle, 3777 Grey Eagle Dr, greyeagleresortandcasino.ca
CHASE MATTHEW
Since releasing his debut album Born For This in
2022, Chase Matthew has been enchanting fans with his faith-oriented take on pop-country jams. November 15, 7 p.m. at The Palace, 219 8 Ave. S.W., thepalacetheatre.ca
SARAH MCLACHLAN W/ TINY HABITS
It’s been 30 years since Sarah McLachlan’s breakthrough album Fumbling Towards Ecstasy enchanted listeners with soft production and haunting vocals. Relive the magic at the ‘dome along with folk-pop openers Tiny Habits. November 14, 7:30 p.m. at the Saddledome, 555 Saddledome Rise S.E., scotiabanksaddledome.com
PALOMINO SMOKEOUT LP RELEASE PARTY
Every year, The Palomino gathers singles from local artists, compiles them onto a limited-release vinyl record, and throws a party to celebrate! This year’s edition includes Temps and Witch Victim, and admission includes a copy of the LP (while supplies last!). November 16, 7 p.m. at the Palomino, 109 7 Ave. S.W, thepalomino.ca
BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN AND THE E STREET BAND
“The Boss” has finally rescheduled his Calgary date, and he’s bringing along the whole E Street Band to rock out with some classic Americana rock anthems. November 16, 6:30 p.m. at the Saddledome, 555 Saddledome Rise S.E., scotiabanksaddledome.com
TROY KOKOL
Studio Bell welcomes the YYC Music Awards’ “Indigenous Artist of the Year” to its stage to spread some upbeat folk joy for the Voices of Canada series. November 21, 10 a.m. at the National Music Centre, 850 4 St. S.E., studiobell.ca
RUSSEL!
This Filipino-Canadian singer blends classic R&B with contemporary sounds and textures, bringing a layered sound to the Dickens stage. November 21, 7 p.m. at Dickens, 1000 9 Ave. S.W., dickensyyc.com
MICHAEL BERNARD FITZGERALD
Hot off the release of his sixth studio album, Horizon Lines, hometown hero MBF brings his vulnerable folk-rock anthems back to Calgary. November 22, 7 p.m. at Bella Concert Hall, 4825 Mount Royal Gate S.W., mtroyal.ca
ARIA & ALES
Experience laid-back vibes, cold beers, and wild vocal performances from Calgary’s top local opera artists at this month’s edition of Aria & Ales, presented by Calgary Opera. November 25, 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. at Best of Kin Brewing, 1059 14 St. S.W., calgaryopera.com
TYLER HILTON W/ GUESTS
One Tree Hill alum Tyler Hilton brings his cinematic folk-rock anthems to Calgary’s resident barbecue palace for an afternoon of good times and acoustic guitars. November 24, 2 p.m. at the Palomino, 109 7 Ave. S.W, thepalomino.ca
GREGORIAN PURE CHANTS
Imagine eight classically trained English vocalists doing chanted covers of songs from the 13th century… and Coldplay tracks. Don’t miss this one. November 27, 7 p.m. at MacEwan Hall, 2500 University Dr. N.W., machallconcerts.com
EXODUS W/ HAVOK, CANDY, AND DEAD HEAT
Get a taste of ‘80s thrash excellence when Exodus comes ripping through Calgary with whiplash speed and gnarly riffs. November 29, 6 p.m. at The Palace, 219 8 Ave. S.W., thepalacetheatre.ca
CHANTAL KREVIAZUK: A HOLIDAY SPECIAL
Grammy and three-time JUNO winner Chantal Kreviazuk performs heartwarming holiday harmonies with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra to kick off the season. December 7, 7:30 p.m. at Jubilee Auditorium, 1415 14 Ave. N.W., calgaryphil.com
PHOTO: EVA MICHON
Death from Above 1979
PHOTO: GEOFF FITZGERALD
Cadence Weapon at JazzYYC Canadian Festival
Takao Tanabe: A Legacy of Landscape
BY BENJAMIN HEISLER
Takao Tanabe often sets his prairie landscapes during the last light of the day, amidst the first wind before a storm when the colour of land and sky are the closest, or as the first drops of rain look ready to fall from the gathering clouds. His work has so often depicted that view that he notes, “by 1976, I had perfected my prairie landscape.” “Perfect” is a word often used to describe Tanabe landscapes, and it’s a description, not an opinion.
Drop by the Glenbow at The Edison before November 24 to see the current exhibition of Tanabe’s work and you might notice that these artworks don’t focus on features like traditional European landscapes — there is no draw of the eye to landmarks like mountains, lakes, waterfalls, or wildlife. The lines and colours are balanced in what can only be described as
equilibrium. Go see for yourself and become suspended in the aura of contemplation that surrounds this artwork.
In a good-humoured recollection, Tanabe says, “I had an exhibition, and a reviewer in Vancouver said, ‘If you’ve seen one Tanabe, you’ve seen them all.’... And I agree, if you’ve seen one of mine then you’ve seen them all; what else is there? The prairies that I was painting were flat, as flat a piece of land I could find… the differences were the colour, the mood through use of colour, and the breakup of the land.”
Tanabe describes his plein air process for producing landscape artworks, “Firstly, I’m [on site] making notes and studies for paintings… most of the things I do are just on the backs of envelopes and notepaper, with lots and lots of writing on them about the atmosphere or color; tonal changes, that sort of thing.”
After his prairie series, Tanabe’s attention shifted to the West Coast.
A 21-minute video also on display at the Glenbow shows Tanabe sketching and reflecting in a West Coast setting.
As Tanabe gazes out across a coastal bay he says, “What I like about the view is this mud bay at low tide, with accent of rocks and that little spit of brown mud or something sticking right out at a very fine point, and those little black rocks…Look at the way the sand spit goes out into a point, then if you follow that back going along the water’s edge you see another point, just of the water doing the same thing on the other side. And it’s that kind of thing that I would emphasize.”
Tanabe was born in Seal Cove, B.C., in 1926. In 1942, Tanabe and his family were among the Japanese Canadians uprooted and interned during the Second World War in a camp in inland B.C. There he was a labourer, not allowed to continue his education. When the war ended, he began his life on the prairies when he joined siblings in Winnipeg and attended the Winnipeg
School of Fine Art in 1946, beginning with a sign painting class. Despite difficult beginnings, Tanabe went on to become a distinguished painter, printmaker, and teacher held in high esteem for his contributions to Canadian culture.
Organized by the Kelowna Art Gallery with support of the Canada Council for the Arts, this exhibit celebrates 75 years of printmaking by Takao Tanabe. It features prairie and costal print series, in addition to five original woodblocks, Christmas cards, newer embossed abstractions, a self portrait and more. Many of the artworks have never been publicly displayed before.
With an aim to preserve the colour of these delicate artworks on paper, low levels of light exposure are required. The exhibit is presented in a reverent glow that protects the art and enhances the meditative experience.
Glenbow at The Edison is free and located on the 2nd floor at 150 9 Ave. S.W. Visit glenbow.org to reserve timed tickets for entry.
Nootka Afternoon by Takao-Tanabe
Exploring Identity Through Art
A CONVERSATION WITH FELIPE JASSO
BY EVELINA PAK
Q:Felipe Jasso is a Mexican-born artist now based in Calgary who explores themes of identity, gender, and death. Through his work, Jasso brings together different cultures and challenges perceptions. In this Q&A, he invites us to reflect on our identities and how we express ourselves.
How do your Mexican roots and traditions influence your work?
“Everything I do is influenced by my culture. After 17 years here, I still refer to Mexico as ‘back home.’ No matter where you go, your people will always be your people, and your culture will stay with you.
“When it comes to art, colour plays a significant role. Although a lot of my works may seem monochromatic, I intentionally incorporate vivid colours: yellows, blues, and especially reds.
“One of the most important themes in my work is the Day of the Dead. I still explore it as I connect it to my personal experiences with loved ones who have passed. It’s a way for me to grieve, in my way, which is very much the Mexican way. It’s not necessarily sad; it’s just a way to keep people in mind and remember those we’ve lost.”
Q:Your photography often focuses on the male form and nudity. What draws you to this subject matter?
“I’m a queer artist, which explains a lot about my work. There’s a strong culture of beauty and body image in the queer community. I’ve also always been a fan of classical art, particularly
from the Renaissance, and I think that imagery has stayed with me.
“In my photography, the men often pose in uncomfortable ways, and you can sometimes see the delicate message in their expressions. At first glance, the image might seem attractive or even erotic, but the more you look, the more hidden struggles you notice… There’s a sense of fighting for happiness, and I identify with that deeply.”
Q:
How has your identity within the LGBTQ+ community influenced your artistic journey?
“Initially, it was very hard for me to have even a small exhibition in the queer community because I felt so insecure talking about myself in front of people. But as my work evolved, I started feeling more comfortable in my skin as a queer individual.
“Now, I feel more involved in the queer community and am happy if I can support others. Currently, I’m diving into deeper themes in my photography and engaging in this inner conversation. I’ve heard that we never really come out of the closet, which means there’s always something new to explore for everyone.”
Q:
How do you balance masculinity and sensitivity in your work?
“I don’t work with professional models; most of the people I shoot are people I know, even if it’s just a little. I aim to connect with them on a deeper level, encouraging them to let go of their self-perceptions as much as possible.
“I do very long photo sessions, so they get tired of pretending. We start with light conversations, but then I gradually throw in more personal topics. As I keep shooting and become quieter, their expressions shift — I know they reflect on
“ THE MORE YOU LOOK, THE MORE HIDDEN STRUGGLES YOU NOTICE… THERE’S A SENSE OF FIGHTING FOR HAPPINESS, AND I IDENTIFY WITH THAT DEEPLY. ”
FELIPE
JASSO
their issues. I’m definitely not pushing boundaries, but if they’re open to it, I can go deeper and capture more personal moments.”
Q: Is your work a means of changing societal perspectives, or is it more of a personal expression?
“I don’t think I’ll ever aim to change society’s perspective with my work. When it comes to gender, my focus is on understanding myself and making a statement that I’m here and have value. Despite a lot of my work reflecting struggles, I’m okay with that. It’s important to acknowledge that you’re cool with who you are. We’re all unique individuals with our own kind of weirdness.
“If my work ever changes perceptions, I’d be honoured, but also scared.”
Q:
What is your understanding of beauty?
“To me, the most beautiful thing is confidence. Often, those who are truly confident can
be perceived as arrogant or egocentric. While there are certainly limits to this, I appreciate individuals who are happy to share who they are — those who are not afraid to express themselves, regardless of age, gender, or past experiences. When I see someone confidently navigating through society, it’s the most beautiful thing to me.
“Even in my portraits, the visual impact comes from being authentic and showing that true self to others.”
This Q&A was created as part of a collaboration with Arts Commons, which will be publishing an article featuring Felipe Jasso. Together, we aim to foster more dialogue around the arts in Calgary by providing more platforms to share stories of Calgary’s artists.
To see more of Felipe Jasso’s work or to contact him, visit his website at felipejasso.com or Instagram @felipejassophotos.
WPrairies Live Art
BY SARAH COMBER
hile life has returned to a “new normal” after the COVID-19 pandemic, the virus’ spread and the subsequent global shutdown caused lingering impacts keenly felt by the performing arts community.
Notably, orchestra, theatre, opera, and ballet attendees have not returned to performances.
Now, 13 live arts performance groups from across Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba have banded together to advocate for the sector and grow audiences, and they have launched a campaign to increase ticket sales with half a million dollars of support from Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan).
“The performing arts were the first to have to stop [during the shutdown], and the last to come back in most places,” says Marc Stevens, President and CEO of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra. “Many of our audiences who’d been in the habit of coming to the theatre, ballet, opera, or orchestra had gotten out of that habit.”
A Stone-Olafson report published on Nov. 2, 2021 (and updated on May 3, 2022 and April 13, 2023), found that higher cost-of-living expenses, decreased household income and inflation have made audiences more hesitant — and more discerning — with spending their hard-earned dollars on a live show.
The report also notes that the “experience economy” has many benefits, including positively impacting quality of life, education, wellness, and tourism, but despite these benefits, the sector continues to suffer.
A Stats Canada report released on June 27 of this year notes that the Canadian live performance sector lost 1,835 jobs in the first quarter of 2024. Yet, in the first half of 2024, live arts alone contributed roughly $1.5 million to Canada’s GDP.
Spearheaded by the Manitoba Opera, the cross-prairie performance arts coalition — which includes the Alberta Ballet, the Calgary Phil, and the Calgary Opera — submitted a proposal for support to PrairiesCan. The proposal showed the
A CROSS-PRAIRIE MARKETING CAMPAIGN
SEEKS TO BOOST LIVE PERFORMANCE ATTENDANCE
sector’s importance not only as a cultural institution but also as a driving force in their local economies.
“It’s not about our organizations,” says Stevens. “It’s about the communities that we serve. It’s about the audiences and the many other folks that interact with us, not just on the concert hall stage or in the theatre, but in many other parts of the community.”
“Whether it’s theatre, music, dance or opera, these art forms are about opening doors to new worlds...”
MARC STEVENS, PRESIDENT & CEO OF CALGARY PHILHARMONIC
PrairiesCan answered the call, contributing $500,000 under the Community Economic Development and Diversification (CEDD) Program. All of the funds have been poured into the Prairie Live Arts Campaign, with the goal of
boosting ticket sales — and subsequently, strengthening local economies.
Although PrairiesCan was not available for an interview, a representative provided an email response and noted that boosting audience attendance helps to support jobs for arts workers (including artists and technical crew, as well as administrators, fundraisers and front-of-house staff). Increased ticket sales also have the potential to revitalize downtowns across the prairies.
“By widely and aggressively promoting downtown live arts, this project will drive more traffic to the heart of our cities and result in a net
positive impact on the economy because there is more than one ticket purchased at one live arts company,” noted the emailed statement. “It’s the cost of return transportation, it’s paying for a babysitter, it’s booking a dinner at a restaurant before the show, or drinks and snacks afterward.”
Stevens notes that a key detail about the campaign’s impact is that it extends far beyond the 13 large performance arts organizations leading the charge.
“It’s about the much wider ecosystem,” he says, adding that he and his colleagues care personally and passionately about the amateur, civic and indie performance art companies who will also benefit from the campaign. “We’re all trying to provide brilliant experiences to our communities and [create] a wonderful, livable city for everyone.”
Integrating a combination of digital and social marketing, video, and outdoor advertising, the campaign targets Calgary, Edmonton, Saskatoon, Regina, and Manitoba while seeking to break stereotypes about who can attend operas, ballets, and orchestral performances and who audience members can be.
“Folks from all walks of life can come [to a performance]. We need to be clear that you don’t have to roll up in a limousine with shiny black shoes to come to any of our events,” says Stevens, adding his typical concert attire is “trainers and jeans.”
The Prairie Live Arts Campaign’s vibrant marketing approach also highlights the human connection and emotional range live performance offers.
“Whether it’s theatre, music, dance or opera, these art forms are about opening doors to new worlds,” says Stevens. “I imagine a small child — our inner child — going through a doorway from a world that they think they know into a world they never knew was even there.”
The campaign — developed in partnership with Winnipeg-based The Show and Tell Agency — launched on Sept. 23 and runs until early December. Details can be found at explorelivearts. ca/campaign/.
PHOTO: COURTESY CALGARY PHILHARMONIC
BY ABBEY WHITEHEAD
When Diana Matheson retired from the Canadian Women’s National Soccer team, she couldn’t help noticing that despite being ranked among FIFA’s top 10 nations, Canada had no professional women’s soccer league. It’s a support system every other top-10 country had. Motivated by this glaring gap, and with the backing of several current and former National Team players, Matheson decided it was time for Canada to address that lack.
“There are 30 professional women’s soccer leagues around the globe, and we don’t have one in Canada,” said Denna Zumwalt, Chair of the Calgary Wild, one of the founding six clubs of the new league. “At the last FIFA Women’s World Cup, only two teams were participating that didn’t have pro teams, and it’s Canada and Haiti.”
Without a professional league in Canada, players at a professional level were forced to play abroad or join semi-professional teams at home, lacking the financial backing and structure needed for real growth. As a result, the talent pool of Canadian players never reached its full potential, with fewer opportunities to develop within their own country.
Matheson got to work securing Calgary’s first franchise rights, with Vancouver quickly following. Soon, Toronto, Montreal, Halifax, and Ottawa joined the movement. This coming spring, the six teams are set to kick off play in the Northern Super League, Canada’s first professional women’s soccer league.
“It’s not just another sports team,” says Zumwalt. “It is special because it’s the first professional women’s sports club in the entire city,” said Zumwalt. “And it’s only one of two in Western Canada.”
An October 2023, survey shows soccer is the
Wild Times
most popular sport in Canada in terms of participation. Zumwalt attributes this to the sport’s universal appeal and unique ability to unite people from diverse backgrounds.
“Soccer is the most played sport in Canada. It’s not hockey, it’s not basketball — it’s soccer,” says Zumwalt. “Its power to connect communities through a shared passion for the game is
“It is special because it’s the first professional women’s sports club in the entire city. And it’s only one of two in Western Canada.”
DEANNA ZUMWALT, CHAIR OF THE CALGARY WILD
truly significant.”
The team aims to inspire young women to participate in sports by providing them with positive role models and something to aspire to.
“We’ll keep [players] involved in sport for longer because they have something to aspire to. They have something to work towards,” said Zumwalt. “Two per cent will probably go on to
play professional soccer, but that other 98 per cent will go onto amazing things off the pitch.”
According to a Canadian Women in Sport study, participation levels among Canadian girls in sports are significantly lower than those of boys, with a much higher dropout rate. By late adolescence, one in three girls quit sports, compared to just one in ten boys. “I firmly believe that we’ll see participation by young women grow around the game,” said Zumwalt. “We’ll keep them involved in sport for longer because they have something to aspire to. They have something to work towards.”
Lara Murphy, who previously played professional soccer overseas, was brought in to help the Calgary Wild find a place to play. The team is now set to call McMahon Stadium their home.
Murphy’s journey to professional soccer began when she was recruited at age 16 to play in England. She then played university soccer and represented Canada at the first Canada Games in which women’s soccer was included. Her career took her across Europe, the United States, and even Bermuda, where she continued to develop her skills and passion for the sport.
“There are 150+ Canadians that play abroad in different professional leagues, and having this league and the team in Calgary will open up a vast amount of opportunities for players to be in their home country, maybe their home city,” says Murphy.
The league and team aim to empower women on the field and in every role behind the scenes. This includes opportunities for women in front — and back-of-house positions. Last month, the club announced Murphy as the Wild’s CEO and Lisa Oldridge as CFO and COO.
“Our real drive, our purpose for being, is to elevate a generation of young female leaders on and off the pitch through sport,” says Zumwalt. “And we know we can do that.”
Visit calgarywildfc.com for information and season tickets.
PHOTO: MARK 11 PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO: MARK 11 PHOTOGRAPHY
Scene’s Guide to COFFEE SHOPS
CALGARY’S LOCAL COFFEE SHOPS OFFER
COMMUNITY AND CULTURE ALONGSIDE CAFFEINE
BY KRISTA SYLVESTER
It’s hard to pick favourites from among Calgary’s many fantastic cafes, so for our first ever Scene Guide to Coffee Shops we focused on two cafe genres we love — cafes that roast their own beans and cafes that create a unique ambiance.
COVER THE ROASTERIE
It’s hard to imagine this now when there are so many coffee shops that roast their own beans in the city, but almost 40 years ago, when The Roasterie opened, it was a unique offering.
The Roasterie has been a Kensington staple and a Calgary icon since 1985 for many reasons, and Roasterie owner Lech Wojakowski’s passion for coffee is just one of them. Wojakowski opened the quaint coffee shop after moving to Canada from Poland, despite not having a background in coffee.
“All of social life centres around coffee in Western Europe. All I remember when being a kid was all the moms would meet for coffee, and for me, it was a trip to a place that smelled fantastic. I loved the smell,” Wojakowski says. “When I came to Canada, there wasn’t any good coffee. There was this brown liquid that you would get in truck stops and it was so terrible,” he says, adding a trip to Italy and a coffee from Rome shortly after he moved to Canada confirmed his assessment.
“This is the liquid elixir of the Gods,” he says rapturously about good coffee.
Fuelled by his passion for coffee and wanting to bring a taste of Italy’s coffee culture to Calgary, Wojakowski opened The Roasterie almost 40 years ago and learned to run a cafe, roast and source beans all at the same time.
Now he sources coffee from across the world. The shop usually offers over 40 different single-origin coffee beans, prioritizing quality and ethical sourcing in a vintage-inspired atmosphere.
“We don’t look for a deal. We look for the best coffee. So no matter what the price is, if it’s something that’s caught attention in the world. I want to get that. I want us to have it,” he says, adding competition winners are a big draw. “And beans that are sourced ethically, that’s important. We want to know where the money goes and that it’s going back into the community.”
Roasting the beans in-house allows the Roasterie to emphasize approachability. One of the best parts of the day for Wojakowski is introducing patrons to new flavours and tastes. “When a new coffee shipment comes in, I always get excited about the coffees that I haven’t tried before. That’s a treat for me. It’s like Christmas.” He notes The Roasterie will stick with those flavours for a month or two until the next shipment comes in.
“And I know I’ll find something that I like, again, and better, there’s always better coffee coming in around the corner.”
Of course, the coffee is one reason patrons have been supporting The Roasterie over 39 years, but the popular shop is also beloved for its vibe, too. With a mix of vintage decor and ancient artifacts, the coffee shop has an eccentric ambience.
“I think what we have is a very relaxed atmosphere. We’re not over-designed. We’re very cluttered,” Wojakowski says. “I have a lot of antiques on the walls that I have collected over the years, like old coffee grinders and coffee tins. I call them
“THIS IS THE LIQUID ELIXIR OF THE GODS,”
LECH
WOJAKOWSKI, OWNER OF THE ROASTERIE
barnacles. They just grow.”
The roaster, which you can see through a window from inside the shop, is also a big draw.
“People like to watch the process of roasting as the wheel turns and turns. It’s almost hypnotizing. Flame going on the side. Sometimes it gets smokey. There’s a whole atmosphere,” Wojakowski says, adding he believes it’s important to be approachable. The Roasterie carries five blends of regular brews on any given day. But Wojakowski notes as well that any of the beans on the shelf can be prepared in a matter of minutes with an Aeropress.
At The Roasterie, customers can customize their coffee orders and enjoy the roasting process. “A lot of people are coffee tourists, as I call them. They want to visit Nicaragua, Honduras, Mexico,” Wojakowski says. “They’ll come in and they’ll point to a specific bean, and then we grind it up and make it for them right on the spot. There’s a little extra charge for it, but they actually get to experience all of the beans that we have here in the company. And then take a pound or whatever amount they want home.”
Wojakowski is planning a special 40th-anniversary celebration for The Roasterie next year that they can’t wait to share with the community and their patrons, so “stay tuned for those details,” he says.
314 10 St. N.W., roasterie.com
UPCOMING EVENTS:
MORE ROASTERS
Calgary Heritage Roasting Company has one of our favourite origin stories, and the coffee is pretty great, too. Founded by Wildland Firefighters who honed their coffee-roasting skills on the fire line, Canadian Heritage Roasting Co. delivers organic coffees that strike the perfect balance between bold and easy drinking. Coincidentally, the co-founders, Jamie Parker and Mike Wenzlawe, are featured in the Top 40 Under 40 this month in our sister publication, Avenue. 2020 11 Street S.E., canadianheritageroastingco.com/
Sought x Found Coffee Roasters for some of the most unique and expressive beans you can sharpen your taste buds on. This Crescent Heights gem is not just an amazing roaster but also has a pretty nice atmosphere inside to enjoy. 916 Centre Street N.E., soughtxfound.coffee
Kingdom Coffee Roasters’s origin story of loss and redemption has become a legacy that offers hope with a cup of coffee and conversation to the homeless every week. A portion of the proceeds from every bag sold goes to helping people get off the street and into recovery. 75 Skyline Crescent N.E., kingdomcoffee.ca
MORE ICONS OF LOCAL CAFE CULTURE
Caffe Beano opened in 1990 and ever since it has attracted artists, thinkers and those who want to linger over a mug of coffee or a ginger hot chocolate. Customers overflow onto the sidewalk benches outdoors on most days. 1613 9 St. S.W.
Higher Ground is a Kensington coffee institution. Opened in 1982, it is the city’s first independent coffee shop and it has persisted for good reason. This rustic second-floor shop is a favourite among patrons who want a cozy shop to connect with friends or work on their laptops — and the coffee and food are plentiful. 1126 Kensington Rd N.W., highergroundcafe.ca
The Beatles in Canada
Experience a nostalgic tribute to The Beatles’ transformative years upon arriving in Canada for the first time. Revisit the frenzied excitement that swept the nation.
DECEMBER
EXHIBITIONS ON NOW: TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW AT STUDIOBELL.CA/WHATS-ON
2024 Artist inductee and Builder inductee
13 ANDY KIM • DAN HILL • MEN WITHOUT HATS • BEVERLEY MAHOOD • KYLE MCKEARNEY •
A new temporary exhibition honouring the “Godfather of Canadian hip-hop.” 2024 INDUCTEE MAESTRO FRESH WES
PHOTO: MICHAEL SWIERCZEK
I LOVE YOU COFFEE SHOP COVER Scene’s Guide to COFFEE SHOPS
It’s a little bit of a coffee shop and a little bit of a jazz club all rolled into one. When Dan Murray launched the I Love You Coffee Shop in 2019, he knew he wanted to inject some character into the local coffee scene. That’s not to say there’s not great coffee in Calgary — because Murray says there’s no shortage of that — but he wanted his cafe to stand out in terms of the atmosphere.
“I thought the cafe experience was a little homogenous,” says Murray. “I just wanted something a little bit different for the vibe, I think there was a lot of opportunity because nothing like this really existed here,” Murray says.
He teamed up with roaster Calgary Heritage Roasting Company, which also launched in 2019. “It’s a very accessible roast that they specialize in, and I find that most people — no matter what their coffee preferences are — like their beans, so it’s served me very well,” Murray says.
Tucked away in a Beltline basement, I Love You Coffee Shop can be easy to miss until you know it’s there.
As for the location being obscure, Murray says it’s a welcome bonus. “It’s a little hidden by design. I like people discovering it. I think a lot of people would argue it’s not the best business model,” Murray says, adding he had to work with the space he had. The location lends itself to a bit of mystery and intrigue. There’s a wine bar upstairs (Missy’s Wine Bar) and a bookstore down the street (Shelf Life Books).
“It’s a vibrant neighbourhood with lots of different people who live around here and I think it’s nice for them to have different options, not just chains.”
Despite being a windowless basement with no view, clever design, influenced by a Vancouver-based interior designer, makes the plant-filled space feel bright and welcoming. And judging by the Google reviews of past patrons, not having windows has not been a problem for the coffee shop. Many of the comments and reviews echo the surprise of discovering a coffee shop below the confines of a corner convenience store; others adore the cool jazz music vibe or
the plants and the art. Some simply like the couch and the relaxed aesthetic.
“It’s an old school, service-first mentality, and not just, you know, get them out,” Murray says. “We like people to hang around and if they want to do work, they can do work. And if they want to chat, they can chat. And obviously, I think the music is a draw for a lot of people. They can experience something and hear stuff that they’re not going to hear in a lot of other places.” That’s all to say that Murray created a coffee shop that,
“IT WAS AN EXCUSE FOR ME TO BE ABLE TO LISTEN TO MY RECORDS ALL DAY AND HAVE SOME COFFEE.” DAN MURRAY, OWNER OF I LOVE YOU COFFEE SHOP
as a former bartender, he wanted to hang out in.
“This is kind of the best of all worlds for me,” he adds. “I can listen to my record collection and I can get to bed at a reasonable time. It’s just all the things that I enjoyed about the different things that I was doing all wrapped into one.”
An integral part of the city’s arts and music scene, I Love You Coffee Shop features Sled Island posters and art prominently on the walls. “It’s fun when we get to do a group show and a big party,” Murray says, adding the shop has become a community hub and one that he loves spending time in. “It was an excuse for me to be able to listen to my records all day and have some coffee.”
348B 14 Ave. S.W., iloveyoucoffeeshop.com
MORE CAFES WITH GREAT AMBIANCE
Congress Coffee aimed to capture the heart and soul of the ‘90s cafe scene with its vibe, and we say: mission accomplished. Alongside its dark, rich coffee, this Tuxedo coffee shop serves up a variety of events and community initiatives from a monthly Saturday morning cereal and cartoons party, to performance arts nights, to community choir and all-ages drag shows. And with a cool vintage refrigerator and art on the walls, there’s so much to see when you
visit this community hub. 1A, 215 36 Ave N.E., congresscoffeeyyc.com
Weeds Cafe is a great choice for those who want to enjoy a spacious and cozy atmosphere to read, get creative, or work. The ambiance also lends itself to those who want to catch up with friends or play games over coffee. The food is a great bonus! 1903 20 Ave N.W., weedscafe.ca
PHOTO: COURTESY I LOVE YOU COFFEE SHOP
G e t t h e fi r s t p i c k o f t h e m a r ke t ’ s b e s t
w o r k a t t h e exc l u s i v e F i r s t L o o k p a r t y.
S a t u r d a y N o v. 1 6 , 1 0 A M - 4 P M
B r i n g t h e w h o l e f a m i l y f o r h o t
c h o c o l a t e a n d l i v e a r t d e m o s d u r i n g
o u r f r e e e n t r y Fa m i l y D a y M a r ke t . .s h owa n d s a l e.c a
MUSIC SCENE
Calgary Sounds Off
MUSIC CALGARY PRESENTS THE SOUNDOFF SUMMIT,
A MULTI-DAY MUSIC CONFERENCE AND FESTIVAL IN THE HEART OF COWTOWN.
BY NATHAN ILES
Music Calgary is a local non-profit organization that promotes dialogue and support for professionals within Calgary’s music scene. Founded as a legacy project after Calgary hosted the 2008 JUNO awards, Music Calgary has been presenting SoundOff Summit — a hybrid music festival and conference — since 2013.
With SoundOff, Music Calgary aims to put Calgary on the map as a city people pay attention to, says executive director Colleen Krueger.
“A huge part of the event is to bring industry [professionals] into Calgary to see what we have going on, and also to support the artists that are in the city and help them develop wherever they’re at… or give them information that they need to develop their career,” says Krueger.
Each year, the festival brings delegates from across the country to Calgary to host panels and mingle with local talent. Some of this year’s delegates include Ben Goldberg of Ba Da Bing Records, Montreal promoter Jonathan Nudell, and long-time Toronto radio host Alan Cross. Delegates also see locals perform to a crowd of their own fans, because this conference is open to all — including you!
“For us as an organization, we just see the impact for artists to have that home turf to bring out their audience, and show a delegate, ‘Hey, we have a lot of people that love us, and they’re down to see us, and the energy is here.’ We’re building shows with some of the best talents in Calgary, and we’re building bills that don’t always happen organically through the scene or promotion,” says Krueger.
Local rapper Tea Fannie went from performing at last year’s Summit to joining the board of directors for Music Calgary this year. For her, SoundOff is a chance to build connections.
“I went to all the conferences, and I soaked up all the knowledge that I possibly could, and I was just so shocked at the fact that this was right here In the city,” she says. “I was able to meet more artists in the city, and I even collabed with a couple of them!”
Fannie feels this year’s lineup — which features locals including Sunglaciers, The Blue, and Clea Anaïs — will be the strongest yet.
“I always geek at the talent that we have in the city,” she says. “I think this one will be [the year] that people will be like, ‘Wow, Calgary.’ Every single band hits… It’s gonna be an epic, epic festival this year.”
This year’s SoundOff Summit takes place at various venues November 14 to 16. Check the lineup and grab a pass at musiccalgary.ca.
Oranje
Tea Fannie
The Blue
PHOTOS: GLENN LOWSON
Meet Alan Cross
Storied broadcaster and music
writer Alan Cross Cross is this year’s SoundOff keynote speaker. Though he’s been based near Toronto since 1980, he credits humble prairie beginnings in Stonewall, Man., with shaping his direction in life.
“I was good in school and bad at hockey. And when you grow up on the Canadian Prairies and have those two attributes, they don’t make you very popular,” he says. “So I had to find a way to keep from being beaten up and stuffed into lockers in high school. And it turned out that I had a facility for music and facts… I was buying the records, and I was the one always listening to the radio; I was the one always buying magazines and reading up on things. So I adopted a ‘music geek’ persona as a form of protection.”
Cross has spun his “music geek” persona into a career that includes over 40 years of broadcasting, writing several books, hundreds of public speaking engagements, and a national music column for Global News. His show, The Ongoing History of New Music, debuted in February 1993 and now spans over 720 one-hour episodes. On a local level, he helped launch one of Calgary’s newest alternative radio stations, 107.3 The Edge.
“I think a lot of people in other parts of the country are surprised at how big Calgary has become,” says Cross. “It’s a very large city that is growing very quickly... My experiences in Calgary have been uniformly terrific… and the new arena is gonna make a big difference because then Calgary will be back on the touring schedule.”
Cross’s event at SoundOff will focus on music and technology, topics he has been following and researching since the ‘90s.
“Right now, the whole world is streaming music, but that’s organized noise going through one ear and out the other,” he says. “There’s no liner notes, artwork, lyric sheet, nothing, and you have that skip button, and if you don’t want a song after five or seven seconds, boom, you’re gone. What I want people to understand, with this particular panel, is the consequences of that behaviour and the consequences of that technology. It shapes and forms music’s composition and consumption, and I find it disturbing.”
His keynote will also focus on the relationship of musicians with social media. “When social media first came along, [it was] an opportunity to break down the barrier between you and the audience; it’s this one-to-one, almost real-time interaction with the people who support you the most,” he says. “Now, though, it may have swung too far because the super fans expect you to be at their beck and call, and when you’re not, they get upset. So, social media is still very important in how you communicate with your fans… But my question is, where is this going? How is this evolving, and will it ultimately be beneficial or damaging?”
Join SoundOff Summit for an afternoon chat with Cross at Festival Hall on November 16.
CJSW November Chartlist
Direct from your radio pals at 90.9 FM, here is a snapshot of the current artists & albums topping the charts at CJSW. Tune in, turn it up and enjoy.
1. Witch Victim** - Witch Victim (Self-Released)
2. knitting* - Some Kind of Heaven (Mint)
3. Tendavillage** - The Tenda Dimension (Unbound by Sound)
4. JP Harris - JP Harris Is A Trash Fire (Bloodshot Records)
5. Ghostkeeper** - Cîpayak Joy (Victory Pool Records)
6. Boy Golden* - For Eden (Six Shooter Records)
7. Underground Wires** - A Kiss To Wake Soundtrack (Self-Released)
8. sean beaver** - The Temperance (Self-Released)
9. Blue Moon Marquee* - New Orleans Sessions (SelfReleased)
10. ASKO* - ASKO (Dine Alone Records)
11. Uniform - Nightmare City (Sacred Bones Records)
12. ATOMIS** - Welcome to the Void (Public Library)
13. Melyssa Lee** - Treasures (Self-Released)
14. Jessica Pratt - Here In The Pitch (Mexican Summer)
15. brass lip** - vol 2 (Self-Released)
16. Hiatus Kaiyote - Love Heart Cheat Code (Brainfeeder)
17. Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds - Wild God ([PIAS])
18. Bus People* - Starcade (Milltown Records)
19. Kaytranada* - Timeless (RCA)
20. Louis Carnell - 111 (Mute Artists)
21. Falcon Jane* - Legacy (Darling Recordings)
22. Sea of Lettuce** - Any Day Now (Self-Released)
23. Bad Bodies** - Bad Bodies EP (Self-Released)
24. Wyatt C. Louis* - Chandler (Royal Mountain)
25. Carson Tworow and David Lavoie** - Teardown (Self-Released)
26. Wyzaker** - Doverville EP. 1 (City of Fire)
27. Robert Seer** - OEM (Robert Seer Music)
28. Begonia* - Open Swim EP (Birthday Cake)
29. Feeling Figures* - Everything Around You (K / Perennial Records)
30. Puppet Wipes** - Live in Pompeii II (No Label NZ)
** Local
* Canadian
PHOTO: ALAN CROSS
Alan Cross
Practice
BY KENNA BURIMA
here are few more unwieldy concepts to an artist than practice.
It’s something we artists do in the privacy of our studios, corner desks, and ultimately deep within ourselves. We meet our true selves in practice. It shows us who we are and who we aren’t, and facing the latter head-on can make us the artists we were meant to be.
In conversation with artists about their practice, I found that practice does not make perfect, but rather it makes the art. Every artist practices. And perhaps it can equally be said that most artists have practiced practicing.
I certainly have a hefty amount of practice baggage.
When I was a music student, practice meant logging endless hours, thoughtlessly looping single bars of music. This way of practicing became the breeding ground for tendonitis, crippling self-doubt, depression and a questionable relationship with drugs and alcohol.
I can’t help but regret the way I practiced, but I can’t blame the practice itself.
Eventually, I found my way to a therapist’s chair twice a week to face my relationship to practice, and through careful guidance and self-reflection, I deliberately enacted a complete about-face.
I slowed down, I focused, and I stayed present within my body for each moment I was practicing. It changed everything; not only my music but the way I live my life.
PRACTICE IS THE BRIDGE
For jazz drummer and educator Jon McCaslin, practice is the ritual of connecting to his instrument and developing his craft, so that his creativity flows effortlessly and uninterrupted.
“Practicing allows me to deepen the bond I have with my instrument,” says McCaslin, “developing the connection between the technical and functional aspects of being a drummer.”
In this way, practice acts as a bridge between inspiration and the creative process.
Visual artist Verna Vogel agrees and emphasizes her practice is one of quietening the mind.
PRACTICE IS A NOUN, A VERB AND A WAY OF LIFE FOR ARTISTS
“THE MOST IMPORTANT ASPECT OF PRACTICE FOR ME IS TO TURN OFF MY CONSCIOUS MIND IN ORDER TO GET INTO A FLOW STATE.”
VERNA VOGEL
“The most important aspect of practice for me,” says Vogel, “is to turn off my conscious mind in order to get into a flow state.”
This flow state was a missing piece for me. Witnessing the effortlessness you do something you enjoy, the flow state is a practice itself. Be it through a paintbrush stroke or beautifully executed drum fill, many artists have discovered
embodiment is the path to flow. McCaslin calls it, “being very conscious of not only what I’m playing but how I’m playing it.”
DISEMBODIMENT THROUGH TIME
Nothing kills a vibe like the tyranny of the clock.
Our perception of time changes as our emotional state responds and so by segmenting
practice by time, we set ourselves up to be disconnected from the experience, unable to receive information from our bodies with our eyes on the clock.
While Vogel shares this belief about time, for her, that embodiment goes beyond her studio work — art for her comes out of living life.
“If I want to achieve mastery in my studio, I must ground it in my life,” she says. “I find ways to live and work within the rhythms of my body and the seasons rather than clock time, as much as possible.”
PRACTICE IS PERSONAL
Cree multi-disciplinary artist Virginia Jessica Sparvier-Wells spent much of her early years stalking the hallowed music halls of multiple institutions. She battled with time too, but through her own research and experimentation, developed a practice focusing on her unique needs.
This kind of “deliberate practice” was first coined in 1993 by psychologist Anders Ericsson and his Florida State University colleagues where they conducted research on the innateness of expert skill. They discovered it had less to do with talent and more to do with specific and focused engagement of the skill itself; be it mastering an instrument or the canvas.
“I had to learn how to practice myself,” says Sparvier-Wells. “Teachers mostly tell you how much time should be spent [practicing], but not necessarily on the how. I had to figure out for myself how to link my unique brain as a student to the practice of the instrument. It wasn’t just a matter of time, because I had this ambition to be excellent, but I knew I couldn’t practice six hours a day.”
This led Sparvier-Wells to a practice that combined mindful and spontaneous movement, improvisation, breathwork and quietening the mind so she could hear her body speak. This led to an incredible career as a composer, musician, choreographer, director and inspiring mentor. It’s proof that practice not only makes the art, but makes the artist.
Kenna Burima is a Calgary-based songwriter, musician, mother and teacher.
DOORS 7PM SHOW 7:30PM TICKETS $15 IN ADV $20 AT DOOR OR WITH SHOW PASS
SHANE GHOSTKEEPER | JOLENE MARIE | DENVER VENOIT
BRETT CASSIDY & THE CORDUROY COWBOYS
DOORS 7PM SHOW 8PM TICKETS $15 IN ADV $20 AT DOOR OR WITH SHOW PASS
CLEA ANA Ï S | BLUFFING | THOMAS THOMAS RYAN BOURNE | BETABOYS
DOORS 12PM TICKETS $25 IN ADV $30 AT DOOR OR WITH SHOW PASS
LAURA HICKLI | GINGER BEEF | HECO SARGEANT X COMRADE |
MIKEY’S 3.0
MIKEY’S JUKE JOINT RISES FROM THE ASHES
BY MARY-LYNN WARDLE
On May 29, Mike Clark, owner of the music venue Mikey’s on 12th, posted a notice stating they would close permanently because the building was being redeveloped as apartments, and that the future was unclear. On July 1, musicians took to the stage there for the last time. The good money was betting that Mikey’s was gone for good, another casualty of the city’s rapid growth.
That all seems like ancient history to Clark on October 18 as he drives towards his opening day at the new location of his eponymous Juke Joint and Eatery at 6404 Bowness Road N.W.
The building has a storied past as a music venue. It was previously the Bowness Hotel and featured live music in the tavern, then it became Hexters Pub, which also featured live music.
While Clark focuses on last-minute little details on the opening weekend, there have been a lot of big details that have already been worked out to bring this all together, including, first, deciding whether or not to continue as a venue
It’s been a long summer of blood, sweat and tears. Literally. The community has supported me and that’s why we’re here. We’re excited to be back at it. ’’
It takes a village right? ’’
MIKE CLARKE, OWNER
owner. Having done that, next he needed to find a new location.
In February of 2023, Clark had looked at the old Hexters Pub site, which had closed in 2020, but decided he didn’t want to run two places at the same time again like when he had both Mikey’s Juke Joint off 10 Avenue S.W. and then opened Mikey’s on 12th in 2017.
“When it came to moving, I kind of hit the
ground running and knew that place hadn’t been filled up yet, so I got in touch with them again.”
Clark credits Gerry Garvey, who owned the old King Eddy Hotel, with helping ease the transition.
As Garvey, a massive music fan and presence at Calgary gigs for decades, recalls, “The owner, Mike Evans of Atlas Developments, is an old friend of mine. I knew his space was available, and so I put a call into him and arranged for him
to meet Mike and I. [He] has a good heart and understands the importance of live music and the arts. We were able to come to an agreement that I’m sure will work for everybody.”
Clark agrees. “I think they gave me about as favourable a rent as they could. Most of the operating cost is rent to be honest. They’re interested in seeing live music flourish.”
With that huge piece of the puzzle fitting nicely to create the bigger picture, Clark’s path was cleared to move forward.
He speaks of being buoyed by the Mikey’s community, who clamoured to keep the spirit of the venue alive and who contributed about $25,000 to a fundraiser to help with the move.
Almost everything at the Bowness location was moved or repurposed from the previous two Mikey’s locations or sourced used. “We sourced a lot of stuff, repurposed things from 12th, took stuff from the Juke Joint that I had in my garage. We were scrounging around. There is not a lot of new material in there.”
The decor isn’t the only area that features many old favourites. Clark has simplified the menu and added a beloved recipe for Texas chili,
PHOTOS: MELISSA PENNETT
Tom Philips & the D.T.s
which has been a hit during the week-long soft opening during which the place already solidified some Bownesian regulars. Salads, burgers, sandwiches, soup, and of course, tacos, grace the menu. Although Clark parted ways with longtime taco partner Alli Said, his sons and business partners Carl and Jimmy, who did most of the renos to get the place ready and were in the kitchen at the old place, have been making those tacos for years.
And the music continues seven days a week, with the familiar Tom Phillips Laidback Jam Sundays, Steve Pineo Trio Mondays, Tim Williams Tuesdays, a Pineo-hosted jam Wednesdays and a song lab on Thursdays.
The community of Bowness has welcomed Mikey’s with open arms, with people inquiring about the place as he goes for coffee and saying they are glad he is here.
“My vision from the get-go was to have a
live music venue that was comfortable, and had good sight lines, good sound, and to be able to showcase some really good performers and performances. As well as being a grassroots place where people could develop as players. The overall vision hasn’t changed.
“This one is going to be our best space to do that vision because it’s a good size. The capacity is 220 where the last one was 160, but it feels more comfortable. It feels more of that juke joint vibe that was in the first one. It’s a bit of that neighbourhood pub feel we had at the first Juke Joint.
“We’re excited to be back at it. It’s been a long summer of blood, sweat and tears. Literally. The community has supported me and that’s why we’re here. It takes a village, right?”
Mikey’s Juke Joint and Eatery features live music seven days a week at 6404 Bowness Road N.W., mikeysjukejoint.com
Thank you so much for supporting us during our 2024 funding drive! Thanks to you, CJSW can continue its lovably weird and wacky broadcast. The drive itself is over, but you can still donate at cjsw.com/donate!
