November 2014, Revue Magazine

West Michigan’s Entertainment Guide  November 2014

Music / Culture / Dining / Beer / Free!

Lamp Light Music Festival My Brightest Diamond Night Before Thanksgiving Hangover guide GWAR

Dance in the Annex Plus: where to move your body in west michigan

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November 14

THUNDER FROM DOWN UNDER

November 15

THE TEMPTATIONS Coming Soon!

November 28

GREENSKY BLUEGRASS

November 6 - 8:45pm Umphrey’s McGee

November 14 - 8:30pm

Thunder From Down Under

November 15 - 8pm

The Temptations wsg The Soul Experience

November 21 - 8pm

November 22 - 3pm & 8pm Warren Miller “No Turning Back”

November 28 - 8pm

Greensky Bluegrass wsg The Go Rounds

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December 4 - 7:30pm Styx

December 6 - 8pm Trailer Park Boys

December 17 - 7:30pm The Beach Boys

December 20 - 8pm

Frankie Ballard’s Country Christmas

December 31 - 8pm

NYE The Friends of The Bob & Tom Show Comedy Tour ft Dave, Greg, Chick & Auggie

What’s Inside

November 2014 | Volume 26, Issue 11

SCENE: 11 Free Market 12 Eclectic 14 All Ages

SPECIAL Features: 16 18 20 22

Dance Q&A with Amy Wilson Night Before Thanksgiving Bar Guide REVUE Hangover Guide

SOUNDS:

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25 Local Music: Lamp Light Music Festival 26 On Tour: My Brightest Diamond 28 On Tour: GWAR

Dance in the annex

SIGHTS: 31 32 33 34 35

Visual Art: The Art of Kirk Newman Indie Film Comedy: Roy Wood Jr. Style Notes Theatre: Once

DINING & DRINKING: 37 Restaurant Listings 40 Taste This: Thanksgiving 42 Beer: Brown Ale Face-Off 59 Last Call

SCHEDULE: brown ale face-off

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hangover guide

22

47 Daily Event Listings and Best Bets

Letter from the Editor

W est M ichigan ’ s E ntertainment G uide

E

ve ry ti m e my mom com es to vis it, she demands that we take her dancing somewhere. Every single time, we insist that we have no idea where, in all of West Michigan, we can go dancing. A couple months ago, the Revue staff thought it would be a brilliant idea to blow my cover and do a feature on a bunch of places to go dancing in West Michigan. That’s right, a bunch. Not one, not two. A lot of places. Thanks, guys. I’ll be dragging you dancing with me.

See, my problem isn’t that I dislike dancing. I just need help and a lot of it. I went salsa dancing one time in college and thought I was doing OK with my life. Some guy asked me to dance, then quickly got rid of me, saying I was a lost cause. Oh.

So that experience bruised my young ego and turned me off from dancing for a while. But guess what.

Nine years later and I’m finally learning that bro isn’t the West Michigan’s Dance Czar. In fact, there are many kind and patient people in the dance community who work with all levels. Even lost causes like me. And the community is not just about offering classes. They also want to offer you entertainment.

The dancers at the Grand Rapids Ballet, Wellspring Cori/Terry & Dancers and Dance in the Annex are not only dedicated in pushing themselves within their craft, but to entertain the community.

So maybe, maaayyyybe, the next time my mom comes into town, I’ll tell her of a few people and places I know.

Rock on.

Editorial Publisher Brian Edwards / brian@revuewm.com Associate Publisher Molly Rizor / molly@revuewm.com Managing Editor Lindsay Patton-Carson / lindsay@revuewm.com Design Creative Director Kim Kibby / kim@revuewm.com Design Kim Kibby, Kristi Kortman, Kellie Zaplitny Contributing Writers Missy Black Audria Larsen Joe Boomgaard Carly Plank Steven de Polo Emma Kat Richardson Dwayne Hoover Rei Robinson Alexandra Kadlec Josh Spanninga Nolan Krebs Kerri VanderHoff

Contributing Photographers Seth Thompson, Joe Boomgaard, Kelsey Wahowiak Listings schedule@revuewm.com Revue Minions Giovana Barreto, Anastasia Hauschild, Kayla Hay, Jack Raymond, Lindsey Wylie-Gruen

Sales / 616.608.6170 Kelli Belanger / kbelanger@revuewm.com Molly Rizor / molly@revuewm.com Digital Editor Jayson Bussa / jayson@revuewm.com

Lindsay Patton-Carson, Managing Editor / lindsay@revuewm.com

Find us online!

Website: revuewm.com Twitter: twitter.com/revuewm Facebook: facebook.com/revuewm Revue is published monthly by Revue Holding Company.

65 Monroe Center, Ste. 5, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 Office: 616.608.6170 / Fax: 616.608.6182

Advertising index Arcadia Ales. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Avenue for the Arts . . . . . . . . . . 55 Bell’s Brewery . . . . . . . . . . . 2, 24 Brewery Vivant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Broadway Grand Rapids/ Miller Auditorium. . . . . . . . . . . 4 Calvin College SAO . . . . . . . . . . 29 Cascade Optical . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Central City/Centre Street Taphouse. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 City Flats Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Downtown Kalamazoo. . . . . . . . 52 Dr. Grins. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Erb Thai. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Fajita Republic . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Firekeepers Casino . . . . . . . . . . 13 Foot Outfitters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Founders Brewing Co. . . . . . . . . 10 Frauenthal Center. . . . . . . 27, 53 Grand Rapids Brewing Co. . . . . 46 Grand Rapids Public Library. . . 55 Grand Rapids Symphony . . . . . 27 Gravel Bottom Brewery . . . . . . . 43 Green Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Holiday Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 HopCat. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Hops at 84 East. . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 The Intersection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

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Kalamazoo Public Library . . . . . 30 Kalamazoo State Theatre. . . . . . . 6 Kalamazoo Valley Community College. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 KB Productions . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Keil Lasik Vision Center. . . . . . . 45 Kendall College of Art & Design. . . . . . . . . . . . . 53, 54 Koko FitClub of Grand Rapids. . 23 McFadden’s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Mister-E-Liquid. . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 New Horizons Computer Learning Centers . . . . . . . . . 55 The Orbit Room. . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Palazzolo’s Gelato . . . . . . . . . . . 45 The Pyramid Scheme. . . . . . . . . . 5

River City Improv. . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse. . . . . . 57 Saugatuck Brewing Co . . . . . . . 44 Saugatuck Center for the Arts. . 24 Schuler Books. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Seven Steps Up. . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort. . 3 SpeakEZ Lounge . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 St. Cecilia Music Center . . . . . . 56 Take Hold Church. . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill . . . . . 26 UICA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 The Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Walldorff Brewpub & Bistro. . . . 43 West Side Beer / Budweiser. . . . 60

©2014, Revue Holding Company. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part granted only by written permission of the publisher in accordance with our legal statement, fools.

On the cover: Amy Wilson of Dance In the Annex, shot

by Seth Thompson at SiTE:LAB at the Morton House. See story on page 18.

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Steven de polo’s

Free Market

New and exciting things happening in West Michigan nonprofits and businesses since 2007.

Z

iingo (3830 W. Centre Ave.) in Owner Dan Weiskopf has done everything with exercise science.

No more guessPortage is the newest venture for food, from catering to vending machines. One ing and no more Chinn Chinn owner John Tsui. thing missing was cheesesteaks, that East Coast cheating with their While the former is a sit-down symphony of grizzle and goo. Fat Johnny’s is the SmartrainingTM syseatery, Ziingo will be take-out only. real deal. The rolls are imported from Amoroso’s Zip in and go, Ziingo. Opened in mid-October, in South Philly. Crusty on the outside and soft tem. Every workout is tracked and analyzed in in the middle, like Free Market. “Bread is a real the restaurant is partially owned by Tsui’s children the cloud, with the user’s problem in West Michigan,” Weiskopf said. When and long-time employees like Logan Saidla, who ordering a cheesesteak you have but one decision, data accessible 24/7 on all worked at Chinn Chinn since 2004 and will be a my petal flowers. Besides deciding your their devices. “The Koko experience part-owner and kitchen manager. Hungry? is radically different from everything in the next of kin, ask: Do you want it Walk up to the counter and choose history of fitness,” said Koko CEO Mike Lannon.

Jersey-style served with white from four proteins: chicken, steak, Ludwick’s Bakery American cheese or Provolone, “We’re using the most powerful technologies of our pork or tofu. Choose your veggies time to make it easier for people everywhere to lead “Throughout the years, Ludwick’s has gained sucif you are from Ada. Or, do you and add white or brown rice or want your meat torpedo Philly- healthy, happy lives.” It’s working. Since the first cess by having high quality, unique products,” said noodles. Top your concoction with style slathered with Cheez Whiz. FitClub opened, Koko members have completed Owner Tom Ludwick. Now with new packaging a sauce. They offer curry, kung pao or Mongolian sauces. They also have a variety of “We only use real Cheez Whiz from Kraft,” he said. more than 5 million workout sessions, lifted 18.1 and new product lines, Ludwick’s is ready for the billion pounds and burned 834 million calories. next 60 years. “While creating new recipes, we hand-made appetizers. Everything is made fresh “It’s got the right saltiness and viscosity.” If you right in front of you, like Q-doobie. “You will be in are a vegetarian, Fat Johnny’s has turkey Reubens, Grand Rapids residents can get one free fitness want to keep the traditions that have kept our assessment and workout session at the club until and out in minutes,” Tsui said. Sounds like a great chicken and waffles and a salad bar. customers satisfied,” Ludwick said. With a new Jan. 31, 2015. idea for busy soccer dads who are sick of spinach, chocolate enrober, the bakery can now offer chewy tomato and mushroom pizza EVERY Wednesday. Koko FitClub (2845 Thornhills Ave. SE) in coconut cookies drizzled with milk chocolate and Cascade is the world’s first digital gym. Instead After all that exercise, grab some something sweet sea salt caramel, s’more cookies covered with a at Ludwick’s Bakery. After 60 years, the bakery marshmallow icing, and red velvet cookie made If you like to hold your steamin’ beef in your hand, of counting on their muscle-bound fingers and knows how to satisfy its customers who grew with cream cheese chips and drizzled with honey toes for you, Koko uses digital tools to design then head over to Fat Johnny’s Cheesesteaks up with their famous round sour cream donuts. vanilla yogurt icing. n (95 Monroe Center) in downtown Grand Rapids. cardio and strength workouts based on the latest

FREEBIES Free Market sends good wishes to Dan Beatty, who retired from Battle Creek Unlimited. The Customs Cargo Center will never be the same.

Koko FitClub

A little bird told Free Market that the former Cina-Mini II (called the Dirty Deuce on the west side, my pets) has given up the bosoms for brews.

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Scene Sounds | Sights | Dining | Schedule

Free Market welcomes fabulous flack Emily Richett to her new digs on Cherry Street in East Hills. How long until the Cherry Deli offers the Emily Eggplant Po’Boy?

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/// Eclectic

November Eclectic Events MONDAY

Open Mic Night 1/2 off all MI craft drafts 9PM - 1AM

TUESDAY

Tall Boy Tuesday $3.5 domestic tall boys

WEDNESDAY

Karaoke and 1/2 off bottles of wine & $4 appetizers 9pm - 1am

THURSDAY

$2 domestic bottles 9pm-midnight $4 appetizers 9pm-1am

FRIDAY & SATURDAY

Live entertainment

Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene

SUNDAY

NFL Ticket Bloody Mary & Mimosa Bar $4 burger basket $6 PBR pitcher

THE WESTBAR ON THE BESTSIDE 801 5th St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504 (616) 456-9058 theholidaybargr.com Like us on facebook!

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Robots, creatures from more than one land of Oz, a silent disco and beer as red as ruby red slippers will color your November as you either fend off the fear of an imminent Polar Vortex or rejoice in a sick fascination with snow sports. By Audria Larsen Halloween On Ionia (HOI) is back for its second annual takeover of the bar district on Ionia Street in downtown Grand Rapids. Hosted by McFadden’s Irish Saloon, one of the highlights is the $5,000 cash purse with first, second and third place prizes for best costume, which attendees can sign up for upon arrival. Live entertainment will keep the party hopping into the night with DJs, including headliners Kalendr and Golf Clap and feats of daring, like aerial performances and strolling fire dancing by Bangarang Circus. Plus, RedBull’s hot new Silent Disco will be on the scene, featuring an inflatable tent where partygoers can groove to music via personal headphones. Enjoy “bloody” red brews, a craft beer tent and heated areas to keep cozy while raging.

Japanese Warriors Robots Exhibition

Muskegon Museum of Art, Muskegon Nov. 6–Feb. 15 $3-$10, children 12 & under free muskegonartmuseum.org, (231) 720-2570

They came from beyond! Japanese robot toys are iconic, nostalgic and hail from an era of action figures that will probably never be recreated. The notable Warren Schwartz boasts a collection of more than 2,000 toys created between 1972 and 1982, when the distinct robots were at the peak of their popularity. According to the Muskegon Museum of Art, Schwartz’s collection features models from a number of Japanese television series, plus publications. Notable ones include Astro Mu, Captain Ultra, Fang of Sun and “Super7.” For diehard enthusiasts, or just the curious, Schwartz himself will be on-hand at the opening reception, lecturing about the toys and his collection. The reception is Nov. 6 from 5:30 until 7 p.m., and the lecture begins at 7 p.m.

Thunder From Down Under

Kalamazoo State Theatre, Kalamazoo Nov. 14, 8:30 p.m. / $25-$45 kazoostate.com, (269) 345-6500

Strip, strip, hooray! Nope, I’m not referring to the famed burlesque revue featuring Dita Von Teese, I’m talking about Thunder From Down Under, an all-male striptease powerhouse hailing from the land of Oz. “The blokes,” as the site refers to the dancers, are all equally brawny,

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Japanese Warriors Robots: Zaboga (detail)

From the Warren Schwartz Collection

tanned and each sport stern, chiseled visages that could slice through granny’s butter like a knife. Judging by clips of audience reactions, it’s clear granny is hoping for just that. “We get a lot of cackling hens who want to go out and have cocktails and have a good time,” said Krystal Brorson, marketing director with Kalamazoo State Theatre. “It’s getting to be deer hunting season, so it will be quite the ladies’ night.” The highly choreographed show features audience interaction on and off stage. “They get the crowd going … and get a little close,” Brorson said. According to promotional materi-

als, “each sexy performer embodies a different female fantasy and brings it to life, turning your wildest dreams into reality. This isn’t the type of show you just sit and watch — Thunder is a fully interactive experience.”

Kalamazoo State Theatre is offering discounts for groups of 20 or more, so go make some friends and take a ride down a baby-oil-slick road of dance and testosterone.

Halloween On Ionia Ionia St. between Weston & Oakes, Downtown Grand Rapids Nov. 1, 3 p.m.–midnight $10 advance/$15 at gate halloweenonionia.com, (616) 454-9105

Holland Armory, Holland Through Jan. 3, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $4-$7, children 6 & under free hollandmuseum.org, (616) 392-9084

Heading down another road, one that is not oil slick…The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum is beloved by people of all ages.

Which is why the new “experiential traveling exhibition” created by Great Explorations Children’s Museum of St. Petersburg, Florida will surely offer a fun opportunity to dive into the tale in new ways. Currently being shown at the Holland Armory, this unique exhibition is presented like a “larger than life pop-up book,” replete with hands-on connections to the worlds of science, art and history. Follow the Tin Man, the Scarecrow, Dorothy, the Cowardly Lion and others through a journey along the yellow brick road to discover something new and perhaps connect your younger friends with a favorite, timeless story. n

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/// All Ages 3Connor Barth (Michael) and Matt Kopec (Buddy) in “Elf The Musical.”

PhotO: Joan Marcus

Diary of a Wimpy Kid Celebration Kalamazoo Public Library-Powell Branch 1000 W. Paterson, Kalamazoo Nov. 4, 4:30 p.m.

Free!

kpl.gov, (269) 553-7960

PLAYING FAVORITES We all know a few people that just make life sweeter… By Missy Black

Celebrate the release of Wimpy Kid Book 9, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul. It will be like a road trip with a fun family—the books’ own Heffleys. The Kalamazoo Public Library sets up five-to-six stations with different activities related to the books. Kids can take part in a scavenger hunt, make silly lunch sack notes (like Susan) or choose to make a healthy lunch or a junk food lunch like Greg would.

There’s a Scramble the Egg game and some cheese fun as well. Make a diary or a comic strip at this hour-long, drop-in event described as “organized chaos” by Jill Lansky of Teen Services. “Kids can relate.

They can see the people they go to school with in the books. Plus, the book has pictures, is fun to read and kind of sassy.” The day of the party, the new book is released so the first couple chapters will be read out loud. Copies of the new book are on-hand for kids to check out. This is the ultimate fun for Wimpy Kid fans of all ages—but try not to get the cheese touch!

Chris Van Allsburg

East Grand Rapids Public Library 746 Lakeside Dr. SE, Grand Rapids Nov. 24, 6-8 p.m.

Free!

Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene

schulerbooks.com, (616) 784-2007

Mary Poppins

Elf the Musical

Everyone’s favorite nanny comes to visit Grand Rapids Civic Theatre this month. Mary Poppins brings tons of songs and supercalifragilistic fun to the stage, sharing the timeless tale of the Banks family. “It’s the magicalness. That’s not a word, I know, but she allows the children to use their imagination,” said Penelope Notter, the associate and education director at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre. “She lets children grow in the way that children should grow. She nourishes imagination and each magical thing teaches a lesson.” Go back to those well-loved scenes and sing along to “Supercalifragilistic” and “Step in Time”—the chimney sweep tap number on the rooftops. There are some new songs that have been added to help develop some of the characters as this time around, the play is more focused on family and those relationships. Talking points for the kids include family, how families get along, how to stay close and understand one another.

All the warm-fuzzy stuff.

If spreading holiday cheer is your thing, you’ll have to visit Miller Auditorium and see Buddy the Elf as he embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father. In the meantime, he discovers his true identity and helps the city remember the meaning of Christmas.

This modern-day holiday classic is recommended for ages 8 and up.

If your family watches the movie every year as a tradition, branch out into theatre territory and catch the action, live on stage. Elf the Musical will make you feel “happy and excited about the holidays and entertained,” said Bethany Gauthier, assistant director of marketing. “It’s feel-good holiday fun right before Thanksgiving.” Rooted in the spirit and tone of the movie, the production is a high-energy celebration of the holidays and offers new songs to sing. There’s even talk of Buddy and Jovie walking in the Kalamazoo Holiday Parade on Nov. 15. Parents, be advised the show is 2 hours and 20 minutes long with intermission.

Grand Rapids Civic Theatre 30 Division Ave. North, Grand Rapids Nov. 14 -Dec. 14, show times at 2 and 7:30 p.m. $18-$35 grct.org, (616) 222-6650

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Miller Auditorium 2200 Auditorium Dr., Kalamazoo Nov. 25 & 26, 7:30 p.m. $35-$58 millerauditorium.com, (269) 387-2300

Beloved authors rank pretty high in a child’s life and everybody around these parts are familiar with the former Grand Rapids-native and two-time Caldecott winner Chris Van Allsburg. The creator of Jumanji and The Polar Express is coming to the East Grand Rapids Public Library for an appearance and book signing of his new book, The Misadventures of Sweetie Pie. This latest creation is the poignant story of one hamster’s Chris Van Allsburg struggle with destiny. “In true Chris Van Allsburg style, characters come to life on the pages and the artwork and illustrations are absolutely gorgeous,” Promotions Coordinator Emily Stavrou said. This will be a book to “pass down generation to generation.” Van Allsburg is in Grand Rapids developing and reimagining The Nutcracker for the Grand Rapids Ballet, so there should be a ballet presence at this event to promote the collaboration. With his close ties to East Grand Rapids, this event has a great hometown feel with involvement from Jersey Junction and other local area partners. Get ready for photo opportunities and craft stations to make signing wait time more pleasant. n

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/// Feature

Let’s DANCE! West Michigan Dance options for everyone

Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene

If You Want Something Classic Ballet has been enriching the lives of audiences across the world since 15th century Italian Renaissance. Today, under the artistic direction of Patricia Barker, the Grand Rapids Ballet Company (341 Ellsworth Ave. SW, Grand Rapids) has gathered 24 dancers, apprentices and trainees from around the world to perform the best in classical and contemporary dance. “Grand Rapids Ballet School offers its students the rare opportunity of working hand in hand with Michigan’s only professional ballet company,” Barker said. “In addition, all GRBS faculty members have danced in professional companies, worked with renowned choreographers creating contemporary repertory, and performed many of the classical full length ballets allowing them to pass along the rich tradition of ballet experience to each of their students.”

More than 1,500 students receive free introductory classes through the Dance Immersion program. A class dedicated to immersing students into a greater appreciation for art and experience the joy of dancing. Additionally, GRBC offers pointe, ballet, Pas de Deux, free boys classes, contemporary and classes for students with Down syndrome, autism and Parkinson’s disease.

GRBC accepts everyone into the programs and Barker encourages dancers to be part of their school. “We are looking for students who are excited about joining a nurturing and encouraging environment where they will develop knowledge of technique and a love for dance,” she said.

Recently, GRBC has offered up adult ballet classes to the public. The first class is free to try and classes are open to all ranges and abilities. For more information, visit grballet.com.

—Kayla Hay

If You’re Looking for Something More Modern Contemporary dance is a style that infuses methods from ballet and modern dance. Fans of this free-spirited form believe in creating abstract ideas and extreme emotions without adhering to the strict ideals that ballet is built on.

The form is seen as a genre, rather than a technique. Bent knees and flexed feet are deemed acceptable, allowing for artistic freedom.

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Joette Sawall, the artistic director of West Michigan School of Middle Eastern Dance, says “[contemporary dance] isn’t about smooth lines. It’s about getting a hard visual of the body as opposed to the soft, fluid ballet form.”

For those interested in breaking laws in the world of dance, here’s a couple locations in West Michigan that teach the contemporary style: Dance in the Annex (1110 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids) recently won an ArtPrize juried award in the time-based category for its dance-on-film and live dance entry, “respirador (breather).” Those who are already familiar with the genre can take intermediate and advanced classes at the Wealthy Theatre Annex. DITA also offers workshops throughout the year where beginners can get involved. Visit danceintheannex.com to keep up with the latest news and classes. Wellspring Cori Terry & Dancers offers a number of creative, modern and contemporary dance class options for you to test out. Classes are semesterbased, but the company offers drop-ins. Laura Armenta’s Armentality offers an intimate dance experience. Classes are

Grand Rapids Ballet school. Photo: jon clay held in Armenta’s home and there is detailed attention given to each individual student. For more information on classes, visit lauraarmenta.com. —Giovana Barreto

If You Wanna Bump n Grind O’ drudgery of the work week slog! To sack a jammed inbox on Monday only to return the next morning to find it replenished with tortuous memos! Meetings! Water cooler conversation!

Though unlike Sisyphus’s eternal plight of boulder rolling, we do receive respite and its name is Five O’clock Friday. Time

to drink and let loose if only for one night of dionysian jubilee.

But what sort of party fits your personality? If bottle service and pampering are your gig, swank out at The Gatsby (300 E. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo) whose dress code prohibits mesh jerseys and tiger graphic jeans to ward off dude-bros looking for something to hump. If boogie’s your thing, head to Rocky’s (633 Ottawa Ave. NW, Grand Rapids) second floor on Friday nights for DJ sets featuring a booty-poppin’ mix of hip-hop and electronic bangers. Caution: at 12:01 the crammed dance floor is a sweat hole, taking on the aroma of a jockstrap full of sardines.

A couple kamikazes should dull the senses and get the grinding started. Then there’s Rumours (69 Division Ave. S, Grand Rapids), where the crowd knows how to bash uninhibited. Whether it’s with the summer foam parties or Turn Up Tuesday specials, you’re guaranteed a special night of weird with a fabulous crew.

Craving some bass in your face? Hit up Billy’s Lounge (1437 Wealthy SE, Grand Rapids) BassBin Monday nights for local DJs blaring the womp womp. Lose yourself in the rave, or get so hammered that you demand “Sandstorm” from the jockey every five minutes. —Jack Raymond

If You Want Something Retro

Not all dance has to be choreographed. Sometimes, there is nothing better to just let loose and let the music and your body tell you where to go. It’s even better when you can dress for the occasion. Mega ‘80s takes you back to a time when the shoulders were big, the hair was bigger and the music was

synthesized. The cover band performs at The Intersection (133 Grandville Ave. SW, Grand Rapids) monthly and sometimes bimonthly, giving you the chance to dance to some of the greatest hits from the ‘80s. Retro D’Luxe spans the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s, finding retro videos, music and video games to completely immerse yourself in anything and everything pre-2000. This month, Retro D’Luxe hosts an event on Thanksgiving Day at The Pyramid Scheme. Admission is $2 for the 21+ event. If you’re more of a ‘90s child, Billy’s Lounge offers ‘90s Holla Back every Thursday night. —Lindsay Patton-Carson

If You Wanna Class It Up with Some Ballroom While ballroom dancing may remind you of your grandma, it has made a bit of a comeback with “Dancing With The Stars” and “So You Think You Can Dance” in recent years. A dance that was once only for the privileged, you don’t have to be ‘privileged’ to take a step at ballroom dancing in West Michigan. Get a group of friends and head over to Kalamazoo Dance Sport (1522 Gull Rd. #A, Kalamazoo) where group lessons are $10 per person or a one-hour introductory class is $25.

The Dance Asylum School of Music (3467 Blue Star Hwy, Saugatuck) has a one-time registration fee of $20 and offers family discounted prices. At Studio 33 Ltd. (3609 Portage St., Kalamazoo) a trial lesson is free.

Arthur Murray Dance Studio, which has three Grand Rapids locations, has been instructing ballroom dance for more than 100 years with specially trained instructors. “We have gotten so much better because we are all connected,” said Leslie Sharp, a professional dancer of 30 years and an instructor at Arthur Murray Dance Studio. “Our instructors have constant training, some traveling to other countries to learn different techniques.” Her passion for teaching comes from helping people see themselves in a new way. “Dancing can change peoples lives and add so much to it,” she said. Arthur Murray offers a $25 introductory lesson, which could be a good date night option and a chance to, “see each other in a new light.” —Anastasia Hauschild

If You Want Swing in Your Step

If You Want to Learn Some Sensual Seduction There is a reason why watching Shakira dance through “Hips Don’t Lie” can put you in a trance, even almost nine years after the song was released. The singer is known as much for her bellydancing as she is for her unique howl that’s made her the most popular celebrity on Facebook. THIS is what some carefully crafted bellydancing will get you, my friends. OK, now where do you start? Bellydance Grand Rapids (959 Lake Dr. SE, Grand Rapids) is a good place. Bellydance GR offers classes to all experience levels, starting with very beginners and encourages bellydance not only as a dance style, but as a form of fitness as well. If you dig it, you can invest in a 12-month unlimited membership. If you feel like testing the waters, Bellydance GR also offers drop-in classes.

Flirt Fitness (5366 Plainfield Ave. Suite J, Grand Rapids) combines the seductive art of pole dancing with fitness, encouraging women to feel sexy and strong. The pole is only part of the 90-minute lesson, however. Flirt Fitness incorporates yoga, pilates and exotic dance moves to give you a well-rounded workout. New students sign up for level one courses and all students have options for private and semi-private lessons.

—Lindsay Patton-Carson

If You Want to Learn The Latin Trio Latin music is infamous for its sexy, upbeat tempos, but the various styles usually get lumped together into one category, losing their identities. The most recognizable of these include salsa, merengue and bachata, each with their own similarities and differences. Salsa is most popular, having ties to Cuba, Puerto Rico and Colombia, but its specific origin is uncertain. A hybrid of the cha-cha and mambo with swing influences, salsa became popular in New York in the 1970s.

Think of Gloria Estefan’s song, “Oye” for go-to salsa. Merengue is a traditional Dominican Republic folk dance, brought to the U.S. in the early 1900s. Its 2/4 time signature gives it a march-y feel, but influences come from hip-hop and R&B. Bachata is native to the rural neighborhoods of the Dominican Republic. In the early days it included slow, sad, romantic guitars, giving it its own distinctive sound. Need an example?

Look up Romeo Santos, “Propuesta Indecente” on YouTube.

(Continued on page 19) REVUEWM.COM | November 2014 |

Scene Sounds | Sights | Dining | Schedule

Grand Rapids Swing Society. Photo: guy orr

If you’re still riding that swing wave from the ‘90s, there are plenty of places for you to jump and jive. Of course, there is the Grand Rapids Original Swing Society (or G.R.O.S.S., which is obviously way more fun to say), which alternates its locations between Rosa Parks Circle in the summer and indoor locations, which are updated on the website (grandrapidsoriginalswingsociety.com) in the colder months. This org is legit, too, having carved space for itself in the Guinness Book of World Records for largest swing dance and boasting more than 5000 members.

Mainly because it’s open to all ages and skill levels, with a lesson 30 minutes prior to the dancing.

So you want to try out some swing, but you also want to try out some some waltz, rumba and salsa. We get it. We here at Revue are the kind of people who mix all the fountain pop choices into one cup. Lucky for us, Kalamazoo Dance (1522 Gull

Rd. #A, Kalamazoo) lets us try a little bit of everything. This isn’t just a drop-in whenever kind of deal, though. You have to be a member of USA Dance, but that’s not too hard. The membership is open to dancers of all skill levels. So if you’re serious about mixing all that dance into the soda cup called life, a membership might be worth your while.

Movier Dance Studio (2485 Burlingame Ave. SW, Wyoming) also gets into the swing of things Mondays at 8 p.m. and offers free foundation lessons for beginners. Intermediates can join in for $10 lessons or $5 for studio members. If you’re ready to just get to dancing, you can join in for $5 if you are a member or $8 for nonmembers. —Lindsay Patton-Carson

17

/// Q&A

Modern Y Woman

ou won a 2014 ArtPrize juried award for Dance in the Annex’s (DITA) timebased entry, “respirador (breather).” Were you crossing your fingers for a win?

Q&A with Amy Wilson, artistic director at Dance in the Annex

Last year we were nominated in the same category by a juror. We had gone over and above with our performance schedules and we were so invested, [but] we approached it differently this year. And so going into the awards ceremony this year, I really didn’t think we would win. Last year, I was like, “We’re going to win this! We got this!” And we didn’t. This year I said, “Let’s have fun with this, let’s see where it takes us.”

With a completely different mindset from last year, what went through your head when you were called as the winner?

I think I looked at [my husband] Erin and said “What the f**k?” I don’t think it still has set in, quite honestly.

DITA has had entries in ArtPrize the past few years. How has working with ArtPrize brought attention to your organization and modern dance in general?

I think the best part about it is that it’s broadening the appreciation for dance. ... I think that it’s opening minds to what dance can be and what movement can be and what space can be, so that’s probably the most exciting part.

With your history with Wealthy Theatre and SiTE:LAB, collaboration seems to be a big part of DITA. I think dance is inherently collaborative, unless you’re going to be a solo dancer and not have music. There are so many layers. Choreographers need dancers, dancers need choreographers. Usually, we need some sort of music or sound texture, so there’s musicians or poets or a whole host of things that could create that extra layer for sound. And then, of course, there’s curators and venue owners and lighting designers and costume designers. It has to be collaborative.

Dance in the Annex artistic director Amy Wilson with “respirador (breather)” collaborator/videographer and husband Erin Wilson.

Photo: Seth Thompson

18 | REVUEWM.COM | November 2014

When did you realize you were ready to put DITA into the world?

My husband [Erin] has been the director of Wealthy Theatre since 2006. They have the

annex space and there are dance studios in there and I would always look at that space and think, “I want to do something, but if we’re going to do something, I want it to be right.”

How has DITA grown since you formed it?

I think the best part about how it has grown is that it’s opening up possibilities. I appreciate that more than anything because I want to grow as an artist and the dancers want to grow as artists. We all have our different contributions as dancers, so when we can share that with each other and we can share that with other people, it makes it really worthwhile and really rewarding.

How did you get involved in dance?

I started dancing when I was eight. I was a very shy child and I went to a friend’s dance recital and I thought, “Nonverbal communication? That’s perfect for me!” So I just started taking dance classes at the local studio. We moved around quite a bit and I ended up at a high school in California that had a dance program, so that’s when I started doing modern dance.

How much of your life now is devoted to dance compared to when you first moved to Grand Rapids in 2001?

I consume it every day in some way [now].

It’s a part of my life, whether it’s reading an article, preparing to teach a class, going into the studio, starting a new project, planning something for DITA, it’s pretty much every day, even if I’m going to the gym or taking a yoga class. The physicality of that is always in my body and on my mind.

Dance is such a physical art. How do you take care of your body outside of dancing?

I am a gym rat. I go to the Y as much as I possibly can. Although I haven’t gone in a long time because of ArtPrize shenanigans.

I run, I do StairMaster, I do elliptical, I do some kind of cardio. I do light weights, yoga. A lot of stretching on my own. And of course, teaching. I hardly ever sit down until 11 at night. n Interview conducted, condensed and edited by Lindsay Patton-Carson.

Dance, continued from page 17

Now you’re probably thinking, ‘Wow, this is awesome! Where can I get involved?’

Western Michigan University’s Social Salsa Club brings the community together every Friday for an evening of salsa dancing. Meetings are held in the basement studio of Seidschlag Residential Hall, from 5 to 7:45 p.m..

Beginners are welcome, too. The only things you need to bring with you are socks, water, comfy clothes and a friend.

Kneading Serenity (5900 Portage Rd., Portage), a health and wellness center in Portage, is also serving up some fancy footwork with their Social Latin Dance. They offer specialized lessons in salsa, merengue, bachata, and cha cha. Everyone is welcome, and although no partner is required, bringing a friend would enhance the experience. —Lindsey Wylie-Gruen

If You Want Fitness and Fun Pure Barre (2107 East Beltline Ave. NE, Grand Rapids) utilizes the ballet barre to give you a full-body workout. The 55-minute class is low-impact, meaning it’s easy on your joints, but strengthens, tones and stretches the muscles throughout your body. If you are ready to get cozy with the barre, you can get a month of unlimited classes. If you want to try it out and see how you like it, a single class is $21. Pure Barre also offers private and group single classes.

Zumba takes the fitness benefits of dance and ups the ante by creating interval dancing (think switching from low-intensity to high-intensity) in order to burn maximum calories. Influenced by Latin and World music, the key to Zumba is to disguise the workout as a fun, social dance party.

Zumba with Tara hosts classes at various locations in Grand Rapids, like The Pyramid Scheme (68 Commerce Ave. SW, Grand Rapids) and the David D. Hunting YMCA (475 Lake Michigan Dr. NW, Grand Rapids). Baila Cardio (525 Michigan Ave., Holland) specializes in group fitness classes, with an emphasis on fun. The classes are flexible, with drop-in offerings and monthly memberships. —Lindsay Patton-Carson

If You’ve Got a Little Country in You

Photos: erin wilson

REVUEWM.COM | November 2014 |

Scene Sounds | Sights | Dining | Schedule

Performances of “respirador (breather)” at SiTE:LAB.

One time, Revue beer bro Nick Manes went into Back Forty (48 Fulton St. W., Grand Rapids) at 7:45 p.m., ordered a Miller Lite, paired it with tequila, left and then complained about how lame it was. Well, that’s his own damn fault because he barely even gave it a chance. If that turd furguson stayed for a little while longer, he would have been thrust into some top-notch line dancing with some choice country honeys to promenade around with.

Instead, all the Chases, Brantleys and Garths got to break in their cowboy boots a little bit more while Manes’ loafers probably got some more hipster puke on them that weekend. Your loss, Manes. In the meantime, Back Forty offers free (yeah, it’s FREE. That Manes. What a dummy.) line dancing every Wednesday through Saturday, with times varying between 7-9 p.m. and 9 p.m. until midnight.

Maybe Manes would have had a little more fun if there were a mechanical bull involved. Who knows with him, but Wild Bull (330 E. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo) has got a bull. I know, that’s some heavy stuff. And if you already know how to line dance, well then, you can just bring the party with you.

For those who need a little less bull and a little more line dance learnin’, Cowboy Up (22046 Michigan 60, Mendon) offers line dancing Wednesday through Saturday nights. Shakespeare’s Lounge (241 E. Kalamazoo Ave., Kalamazoo) also hosts monthly country nights, where you can participate in line dancing. —Lindsay Patton-Carson n

19

/// partying

Revue’s Night Before Thanksgiving

Bar Guide

By Lindsay Patton-Carson

It’s the night before Thanksgiving and all your friends are in town. Your responsibilities the next day, however, determine your night’s plans. Do you have to be alert enough to dodge Uncle David or will mom and dad pamper you while you sit on the couch and inhale mashed potatoes? You need to keep these scenarios in mind before you go all out. Let us help you.

Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene

LEVEL: TURNT

LEVEL: MY ONLY RESPONIBILITY TOMORROW IS TO LAY ON THE COUCH, WATCH FOOTBALL AND EAT

You have reached that level where there is no going back.

You know you will be worshiping the porcelain god tomorrow, with no hope of sampling Grandma’s pecan pie, so it’s all or nothing. You don’ t care what you d o , h ow m u c h trouble it will get you in and who will see you do it.

YOLO is your new motto and all of a sudden it sounds like a really good idea to get it tattooed somewhere on your body with your new best bud, Chad. Turn down for what? Turn down for nothing, Lil’ Jon. NOTHING!!!!!!!!!!

You’re living the good life. Your friends are in town, you have the day off tomorrow and the only thing you have to prepare is a list of things you’re thankful for or else you might get a stern look from Mom. You may be mega-hungover tomorrow, but if your biggest responsibilities include laying around in sweats, continually eating and watching football, well, what better hangover conditions than that, my friend? Live it up, have fun, but not too much fun where you’ll have to be bailed out of jail or spend the entire day in the bathroom. Come on, at least try not to disappoint your parents.

We recommend: Lady Godiva’s/Stud’s (234 Market Ave. SW, Grand Rapids), Odyssey Entertainment (700 E. Broadway Ave., Muskegon), Deja Vu (1336 Ravine Rd., Kalamazoo Township)

We recommend: Waldo’s (1408 W Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo), Rocky’s Bar & Grill (633 Ottawa Ave. NW, Grand Rapids), Parrots Lounge (234 S. River Ave., Holland), Rumors (69 Division Ave. S, Grand Rapids)

20 | REVUEWM.COM | November 2014

LEVEL: YOU SEE YOUR EX OK, you need to be responsible enough to update your family on what you’ve been doing for the past 11 months. But Jesus Christ on a motorcycle, your ex just walked into the bar and there is NO WAY you can be sober for this.

Let’s see. How many Fireball shots can you take and still be coherent enough to tell Uncle Don for the eighth time what you do for a living. In the meantime, look like you are having the best time and whatever you do, do not make eye contact.

We recommend: The Meanwhile (1005 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids), Shakespeare’s Pub (241 E Kalamazoo Ave. #10, Kalamazoo), The Holiday Bar (801 5th St. NW, Grand Rapids)

LEVEL: AWKWARD FAMILY MEMBERS YOU HAVEN’T SEEN IN FIVE YEARS WILL BE HERE IN LESS THAN 12 HOURS

Don’t think, just drink. You’ll have plenty of time to deal with Aunt K. later. For now, just focus on having a good time, because who knows what kind of time you will be having tomorrow. Don’t punish yourself the next day, however. Have fun and play it safe at the same time. Make sure you’re following the important rules for avoiding a hangover the next day: A glass of water for every alcoholic beverage, go for clear

or light alcohol, eat before drinking and take a multivitamin and some ibuprofen before bed.

We recommend: Hennessy’s Irish Pub (885 Jefferson St., Muskegon), Kalamazoo Beer Exchange (211 E Water St., Kalamazoo), J. Gardella’s Tavern (11 Ionia Ave. SW, Grand Rapids)

LEVEL: BRAVE ENOUGH TO TALK TO FORMER CLASSMATES, NOT SLOPPY ENOUGH TO EMBARRASS YOURSELF

Go out early in the evening and stick with family friendly settings that also serve alcohol.

That way, you can indulge a little, but being surrounded by kids will tug at that little part in your soul that wants to get you wasted. You’ll think about it, but then a little angel of God will turn around in their high chair, stare at you with their unblemished eyes and you’ll grab your tab instead. You’ll then go home, think about your impact on our future generations and feel sorry for yourself.

We recommend: Founders Brewing Company (235 Grandville Ave. SW, Grand Rapids), Harmony Brewing Company (1551

Lake Dr. SE, Grand Rapids), New Holland Brewing Company (66 E 8th St., Holland), Saugatuck Brewing Company (2948 Blue Star Hwy., Douglas)

BOOZE-FREE IS THE WAY TO BE Just because you’re not imbibing booze doesn’t mean you can’t imbibe anything.

There are plenty of joints ‘round here that offer craft beverages that come in alcoholic and non-alcoholic varieties. You’ve stuck to water

long enough, it’s time you got to enjoy the joy of drinking a beverage, but without the side effects. Old Boys Brewhouse offers hand-crafted root beers and specialty sodas that can be done up as floats for those looking to indulge.

If you’re looking to get dinner and drinks, The Electric Cheetah has countless bottles of craft root beer available.

We recommend: Schmohz Brewing Company (2600 Patterson Ave. SE, Grand Rapids), Old Boys Brewhouse (971 W Savidge St., Spring Lake), Electric Cheetah (1015 Wealthy St .SE, Grand Rapids) n

You’re in a tricky situation. You’re home for Thanksgiving, you want to get back in touch with friends, but there are just certain people you do not want to get back in touch with. Ya feel? Here’s the problem with that: If you don’t want to get in touch with them, you won’t know which bars they plan on going to.

Cue awkward run-ins. “Oh, heeeeeey. I’ve been greeaaat. And you?” You need enough liquid courage to talk to these people, but not too much to have them talking about you until next year’s run-in. It’s a fine balance you need to maintain all night long.

We recommend: Unruly Brewing Company (360 W. Western Ave., Muskegon), Central City Taphouse (359 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo), Rockwell|Republic (45 S Division Ave., Grand Rapids), CitySen Lounge (61 East 7th St., Holland)

LEVEL: MOM APPROVED

Scene Sounds | Sights | Dining | Schedule

You’re a full-grown adult, but your conservative West Michigan parents somehow think it’s OK to give a curfew if you’re staying at their place for the long weekend. And, don’t you even dare come stumbling into the house. Your Devil-worshiping ways will be kicked out of that house so fast. So what you need to do is keep it classy. Dress it up, keep your drinks on the upscale side to prevent you from ordering too many and treat yourself to a nice evening out.

We recommend: The Wine Loft (161 E Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo), Butch’s Dry Dock (44 E 8th St., Holland), Reserve (201 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids), Snug Harbor (311 S Harbor Dr., Grand Haven)

LEVEL: OH, GOD. I HAVE TO PICK UP THE FOOD TOMORROW REVUEWM.COM | November 2014 |

21

/// partying

The Revue Hangover Guide

By Jack Raymond

Birch.” And truly, after an evening of entirely too much tequila, what sounds more holy than endless tortillas stuffed with ground beef, queso cheese and fresh greens? Oh, how about the fact that it’s FREE? These guys know how to evangelize. While gorging your drained body on tacos, fix up a bloody from the self-serve bar or ask your friendly waiter to bring you a mimosa.

She’ll look upon you with her most empathetic gaze. Somehow, she knows everything you’ve been through last night, but she’d never judge.

For on Sundays at the lodge, everyone is equal and everyone is hungover. “Here’s your mimosa, pal. The pain will all be over soon.”

hang·o·ver noun: a severe headache or other after effects caused by drinking an excess of alcohol.

O

Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene

h Merriam-Webster, you naive word bible you, defining the hangover vaguely, clinically, as though the symptoms were so simple. Bless your heart. “A severe headache or other after effects...” I guess that’s a start. Typically though, my post-party Sundays involve more bedridden sweats, writhing and swampy beer farts that could K.O. a sumo wrestler. And, severe headache? More like cranium radio 105.7 FM tuned in to the sounds of ‘98 AOL dial-up all afternoon.

So we’re setting the matter straight. The human condition sucks. We love drinking and drinking hates us. Thankfully, at the grips of these minor deaths we can find salvation in the form of a 12 egg omelette or a bottomless Bloody Mary.

That said, we felt the cramming of eggs into your egg-hole seemed a rather rudimentary cure, so here at Revue we’ve compiled some creative local remedies to save you from your suffering.

Hangoverees unite!

What happened here? The five-pronged beer bong is splayed out in the kitchen like an amputated octopus, a film of stale booze coats the tables and there are lit-er-al-ly 99 bottles of beer on the floor. Your body needs a salad, but there’s not a sanitary inch of counter to cut a tomato. Don’t fret. There’s still a way to put something good in you. Sip Organic Juice Bar (423 Norwood Ave. SE, Grand Rapids) blends a garden’s healthiest produce into a variety of smoothies, providing a nutritional hangover alternative to a McGriddle. Their Over the Rainbow, for example, combines nut milk, kale, celery, banana, dates, almond butter and hemp protein into a hippie’s wet dream. If you’re feeling particularly militant about cleansing your gut rot, Sip

22 | REVUEWM.COM | November 2014

offers three and five-day detox programs where they prepare three-square superfood meals for pickup each morning. Upon completion, participants usually feel revitalized, empowered, never wanting to touch a G&T again. Well...wait. Did someone say $3 Yo Momma bombs at Mulligan’s this Thursday?

You’ve likely used coffee in the past as anti-hangover defibrillation, but we’ve devised a sinister caffeine instrument. Here’s Revue’s “Wet Brain Reanimator.” First things first, haul your bum to Kzoo’s Water Street Coffee Roaster (610 Willard St., Kalamazoo) and prepare to empty

your wallet to blast away the brown bottle flu.

Here’s the skinny: dump three shots of house espresso into a mug of their Midnight Oil blend and then glug-a-lug. The concoction should resemble fossil fuel and taste just as gluey, but power through the ooze captain. There’s enough caffeine concentrated in this drink to arouse a pack of starchy lumberjacks.

If two tacos are better than one taco, then 22 tacos must be the best. The Birch Lodge (732 Michigan St. NE, Grand Rapids), preaches this sermon so passionately that its disciples have dubbed their Sunday taco bar “Church at the

At the time, sure, I bet you thought popping those 10 shots of apple pucker from your girl’s belly button embodied the idea of a romantic evening in, but now you’re up, it’s 7 a.m., you’ve got a mad case of the shakes, no hope of sleeping in and you’re picking out pieces of navel lint from your teeth. A harsh start, yes, but your friend yoga is here for you. For 20 bones you can lurk in and join a session at Funky Buddha Yoga Hothouse (1331 Lake Dr. SE, Grand Rapids).

Your aching limbs will coo with post-coital bliss during the Funky Buddha Slow Flow, which focuses mainly on just sitting in a hot room instead of those bats**t pretzel poses you see in Kama Sutra handbooks. Know this though: at 95 degrees, you will sweat. Profusely. We suggest bringing a canteen to collect your drippings.

Chances are there will be enough alcohol content in your perspiration to pour your friends a round of homemade Funky Buddha Sweat Shots at next weekend’s party.

Excellent work, reader! If instructions were followed according to plan your hangover should have disappeared entirely! (Possible side effects may include heart palpitations, bladder explosions, and feeling like God) n

REVUEWM.COM | November 2014 |

23

OctOber 15

Real to Reel Life itseLf

executive Producer Zac Piper will be at the screening. acclaimed director steve James (Hoop Dreams) along with executive producers Martin scorsese (the Departed) and steven Zaillian (Moneyball) present liFe itselF, a film that recounts the inspiring, entertaining and colorful life of world-renowned film critic Roger ebert.

nOvember 22

Schedule | Dining | Sights | Sounds | Scene

fall conceRt seRies suzanne vega

24 | REVUEWM.COM | November 2014

Vega’s greatest hits include “luka,” “the Queen and the soldier,” “left of center,” “i never wear white,” and “caramel.” Don’t miss this distinctive pop-folk star in the sca’s boutique 400-seat theatre!

tickets on sale now call 269.857.2399 or sc4a.org to order tickets and reserve seats

/// local music

PhotOs: Laura Partain

Lamp Light Music Festival Amps Up for Third Year | by Nolan Krebs

F

o r th e th i r d year r u n n i n g, th e first weekend in November hosts Eastown’s Lamp Light Music Festival.

The three-day gala of artistic delights brings together some of the area’s most ardent and talented creators, serving as a celebration of both really great music and a community’s potential to carve its own cultural niche.

While the basic structure of the festival remains the same as years past — sequential (and slightly overlapping) house shows spread out across different Eastown locations — this year’s event boasts more bands and more places to see them.

And for a festival operating largely on the what-can-Icontribute approach from both artist and organizer, the continued expansion suggests Lamp Light’s a hit.

“Our mission is to be an inspiring community event,” said John Hanson, who has served as one of the event’s chief organizers since its creation in 2012.

“We’ve always had to get creative with it, because we’re like a no-budget festival,” Hanson said. “It’s always been something that’s kind of based on our social capital.”

While the first Lamp Light in 2012 packed around 25 bands into four houses, this year has roughly 45 artists sched-

festival, but to stand as a creative banner for the uled to play at six locations. Some of the venues Lamp Light Music Eastown-centric arts community. are newcomers (the Witch House, Brick House, Festival This year, that concept makes a big step Book House and Hush House), while some Grand Rapids’ Eastown toward fruition — the organization’s record have hosted bands in years past (Bird House, Neighborhood label component will be stepping into the light Neighborhood House). All venues are within Nov. 7-9 this year. Backyard Songbook, a songwriting a 10-minute walk of each other, Hanson said. $25 donation for each day, $50 donation for weekend access collective and recording project composed of Among those scheduled to play are Grand lamplightmusicfestival.com Hanson, Alex McGrath of the Soil and the Sun, Rapids groups Ghost Heart, which also will be Jacob Bullard of Antrim Dells and songwriter releasing their second LP, Effigy, later in the month, Vox Vidorra, Bermudas, Dante Cope, Alexis, newcom- Josh Mogck, will be releasing (and selling) an LP at the festival that the group recorded at the Bird House. ers Crooked Arrows, Self and more.

As in years past, the weekend will feature different As far as out-of-towners, Maraj (Kalamazoo), Divino Nino (Chicago), Paul Baribeau (Louisville), Hoops (Indianapolis), workshops and other goodies from local sponsors, including Izzy Johnson (Ann Arbor), Caleb Groh (Nashville), J.E. Mitten Brewing Company, Bloom Ferments and Field and Sunde (of the Daredevil Christopher Wright) and J Fernandez Fire Bakery, as well as Eaters Guild Farm and Birch Point Farm.

“It really is about creating that listening space for music,” (Chicago) will also be making the trip for this year’s fest.

“We like to bring in bands that maybe haven’t played in Hanson said. “The intention really is just to listen to the music Grand Rapids before, but are really exciting to us,” said Dan and be a part of the community.”

Lamp Light officially kicks off Friday, Nov. 7 at 7 p.m.

Climie, Lamp Light organizer and talent buyer.

Since Hanson and company first started kicking the idea For more information on tickets, set times and volunteer opof Lamp Light around, the aim has not only been for the portunities, check out lamplightmusicfestival.com. n

We will probably never get tired of seeing Kalamazoo natives Greensky Bluegrass perform. Catch the band Nov. 28 at the Kalamazoo State Theatre. The group released its newest album, If Sorrows Swim, in September, so this could be a good chance to see them play some new material.

cozy up against the increasingly cold weather and listen to music that doesn’t blow chunks. The beer rules, too.

Michigan’s beloved Frontier Ruckus plays at the Pyramid Scheme on Nov. 6 for the release party of its latest fulllength, Sitcom Afterlife, with Grand Rapids staples Sacred Strays and Valentiger providing support.

If you dig vinyl, check out Harmony Brewing Company in Eastown to hear hand-picked DJs playing actual records on Thursday nights, offering a great spot to

RJ Nordlund, of Grand Rapids’ alt-country rockers The Carboys, plays at Pigeon Hill Brewing Company in Muskegon on Nov. 8 with a merry band of local guest

musicians. All signs point to a righteous evening of Michigan music and beer.

Check out Satellite Records in Kalamazoo on the second and last Wednesdays of the month (Nov. 12 and 26) for Saxsquatch’s Psychedelic Freakout (an open jam).

Backline gear is provided; anyone is encouraged to come down and shred or just hang out.

REVUEWM.COM | November 2014 |

Scene | Sounds | Sights | Dining | Schedule

MUSIC NEWS

25

/// On Tour

Open Hours

My Brightest Diamond Brings Multi-Faceted Talent to the Stage

MON-SAT 3PM-2AM KITCHEN 4:30PM-11PM

Happy Hour

MON-FRI 3-7PM $2 Domestics, $2 Wells $3 Calls, $1.50 Retros 760 BUTTERWORTH SW GRAND RAPIDS, MI 616.272.3910

OPEN VINYL PARTY MONDAYS, NO COVER, 8PM

COMEDY NIGHT

| by Carly Plank

NOVEMBER 1 - Todd T dd Wolfe W lf NOVEMBER 2 - Bitters, Cocksnot, Dave Vacant NOVEMBER 6 - Free Rockabilly Rumble with Delilah DeWylde

2ND AND 4TH TUESDAY, NO COVER, 8:30

NOVEMBER 7 - RJ Nordlund and Friends wsg Bigfoot Buffalo

OPEN MIC NIGHT

NOVEMBER 8 - Rusty Wright Band

WITH SAM KENNY WEDNESDAYS, NO COVER 9PM

NOVEMBER 9 - Shitty Nights, Broth, Priest Rape, The Lippies NOVEMBER 12 - Chuck Prophet wsg John Murry NOVEMBER 15 - Sailor Kicks, Hex Bombs, Squared Off, Flex 0.

Chuck Prophet

NOVEMBER 16 - Lectralux, The Faultline, Tonia Bug NOVEMBER 20 - FREE Show with The Moonrays NOVEMBER 21 - Root Doctor NOVEMBER 22 - Great Notion (Grateful Dead Cover)

Schedule | Dining | Sights | Sounds | Scene

Great Notion

NOVEMBER 23 - Antilogical, The Distractions, Bill Bondsman, Another One NOVEMBER 26 - The American Heartbreakers wsg Hard Promises

The Sailor Kicks

NOVEMBER 28 - The Twistin’ Tarantulas wsg The Truckstop Cobras NOVEMBER 29 - Highlonesome, Last False Hope and Jesse Ray ad the Carolina Catfish NOVEMBER 30 - Chugger, Filthy Injector, Nate Maynard

The Twistin’ Tarantulas

26 | REVUEWM.COM | November 2014

F

rom psychological an- attributes much of her musical prowess to th ro p o lo gy to tribal dance experience gained at an early age. The multirituals, there isn’t much that doesn’t instrumentalist’s parents served as her first inspire Shara Worden. Since forming musical idols and she began singing in church My Brightest Diamond in 2006, Worden as a child — her mother was a church organist has blurred the lines between classical, pop, and her father was an acclaimed classical accabaret and folk, while drawing upon wide- cordion player.

“We all need mentors on some level. My ranging themes. But to her, genre is irrelevant.

Worden simply puts anything and everything first public performance was when I was six.

Music was my family, and it was just what I she enjoys into her music.

“Instead of all of us sitting around play- did,” said Worden, who grew up in several ing the same Beatles songs, what if everyone small towns across the Midwest, where she just brought out their dusty saxophones from spent her time exploring aspects of music and high school marching band and started playing nature. “Boredom is actually very important to the imagination.” music together?” Worden said.

Worden’s latest album, Worden’s music certainly This Is My Hand, is the culmirepresents a unique amalgaMy Brightest nation of her recent literary mation of elements that could Diamond ruminations. Daniel Levitin’s not be replicated by simply Wealthy Theatre, Grand Rapids bestselling book, The World in studying the Great American Nov. 12, 7 p.m. $15 advance/$18 doors/$12 Six Songs, provided the foundaSongbook. Her band’s live CMC Members tion for the themes included stage setup includes drums, grcmc.org, (616)459-4788 on the album. computers, trumpets, guitars “Levitin touched many and even a ukulele, and she of the most important themes loves including her own orof human history,” Worden said. “And if chestral string arrangements on her albums.

While Worden admits to learning phras- the concert experience is the gathering of a ing aspects and other tricks of the trade from modern tribe of some type, we should all feel the crooners of the fifties and sixties, she comfortable singing and dancing together.” n

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REVUEWM.COM | November 2014 |

/// On Tour

by Dwayne Hoover

Death Itself Can’t Stop GWAR

F Schedule | Dining | Sights | Sounds | Scene

or 30 years, th e i n famous ban d known as GWAR has been delivering its brand of heavy metal through signature, over-the-top live shows that sport everything from gargantuan alien monsters to staged celebrity executions.

During those three decades, GWAR has had no shortage of turnover, seeing more than 20 members in and out of its lineup, with some taking on the persona of existing characters and others joining with a brand new identity.

Unfortunately, the band has seen a few occasions when the death of one of its members

28 | REVUEWM.COM | November 2014

created a vacancy that needed to be filled, as was the case in 2011 when guitarist Cory Smoot, who played the role of Flattus Maximus, died unexpectedly.

This past March, GWAR suffered another major loss when one of the band’s original founders and longtime frontman Dave Brockie (Oderus Urungus) passed away. But even as Brockie’s death shook not only the band, but also the world of metal itself, GWAR’s members went to work, ensuring they would honor their fallen leader by doing exactly what Brockie himself would have wanted: Moving forward.

“I’m betting on the fact that he’s passed out in a gutter with a dead hooker,” said Bassist

be taking the stage forefront and helping us kill Beefcake the Mighty (Jamison Land). “That’s things.” my theory.”

Now, armed with two new members, the Much like when Smoot passed away, band is out on the GWAR Eternal Tour in search GWAR adopted a story that aligned with the band’s hilariously complicated and ridiculous of its “missing” leader and to bring its followers more of what GWAR is best mythos to explain not only the absence of its former singer, but known for. “[Fans] can expect much of also the introduction of two GWAR wsg Corrosion of the same: Death, destruction, new members, The Berserker Conformity, The Meatmen, Blóthar (former GWAR member hatred,” Beefcake said. “These American Sharks scumdogs, I think they have Michael Bishop) and Vulvatron The Intersection, Grand Rapids (Kim Dylla). good potential.”

Nov. 23, 8 p.m. $20 advance, $23 day of show As Brockie himself once “I believe Blóthar is a space sectionlive.com, (616) 451-8232 said, GWAR could theoretically barbarian rudely awakened from the distant past, and Vulvatron is exist forever, and it looks like from somewhere in the distant that’s the plan for the foreseefuture, somewhere around 69,000,” Beefcake able future, with talks of a new album already occurring, and a fall tour schedule that promises the Mighty said. “Blóthar will be doing most to bring even more insanity to any who dare of the vocal duties. We hope to hear some stuff from Vulvatron in the future, for sure. They’ll enter its path. n

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visual arts

Other Arts Events Buying Friends:The Kortman Collection

Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts Nov. 15, 2014-Feb. 15, 2015 uica.org, (616) 454-7000 Rife with coyness and wry sensibility, Buying Friends presents the contemporary art collection of Ryan Kortman. More than 80 works by nationally and internationally renowned artists including Adam Scott, Brian Belott and Sayre Gomez are on view together for the first time.

Within this 36-artist exhibition, elements of humor, horror and pop culture intertwine with painting, sculpture and mixed media.

How to Return?

Contemporary Chinese Photography

Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Nov. 15, 2014-March 8, 2015 kiarts.org, (269) 349-7775 Artists and thinkers take a close look at post-boom China in this exhibition that highlights the work of seven Chinese photographers: Liang Weizhou, Huang Xiaoliang, Song Chao, Luo Dan, Lu Yanpeng, Adou and Wang Ningde. These photographers take a look at the juxtaposition of tradition and change, capturing photos that provide deep social commentary.

Tanglefoot Holiday Open House

The Tanglefoot artists open their doors for this annual holiday event, which encourages people to meet the artists and purchase pieces. This year features an artist who had an installation in the GRAM’s 2014 ArtPrize collection. Take your guess on who it could be.

Artful Exploration of the Practical Mind A c u lt u r a l st u dy o f t h e M i dw e st reveals an interesting trajectory. In The Middle West: Its Meaning in American Culture, geographer James R. Shortridge notes around the turn of the last century, the Midwest enjoyed a prosperous time and was revered in the national consciousness as the most “American” part of the nation. The self-reliance of the inhabitants secured the region’s identity as the ideal America.

There was a strong commitment to progressivism, with an emphasis on education, women’s rights and temperance.

By the 1920s, however, the perceived character of the Midwest was changing considerably, especially when the bottom dropped out of the grain market, causing a power shift back East. Socially, Sinclair Lewis’ Main Street (1920), according to Shortridge, “exposed cultural flaws that the public knew were there but had not wanted to admit. He struck at the heart of traditional values, brought these issues into the open and thereby set the agenda for a decade of discussion.” The perception of the area now moved toward the notion of a conservative, provincial society that placed too much “emphasis on agriculture, home economics and business management” and was too “practical minded.”

Subsequent decades saw transitions from postwar boom to industrial decline to Reagan-era nostalgia for a simpler time, yet that underlying perception of the practical-minded, business-focused Midwesterner never really disappeared. Whether the attribute is

considered a strength or weakness, or a little of both, is debatable.

Perhaps this cultural feature is one reason why artist Kirk Newman found great success in the Midwest. His work resonated deeply, especially with local business leaders, and can be found in major collections throughout the region.

Born in 1926 in Dallas, Newman began experimenting with abstract sculpture and painting in the postwar era. He became increasingly intrigued with the human figure and began creating small sculptures of anonymous businessmen.

Newman moved to Michigan in 1949 as an educator with the University of Michigan’s extension program at Kalamazoo Institute of Arts (KIA). He was instrumental in developing the nationally recog-

nized Arts School that bears his name at KIA. Newman continued explorations of the business world, capturing the complexities of power, anxiety, authority and vulnerability in the figures he created. His work shifted over time, reflecting the changes throughout the decades. His figures became more whimsical and satirical, poking fun at inflated egos and social pretensions. By the 1980s, the images were distorted, flattened and shadow-like to convey the fast pace of contemporary life.

An exhibition at the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts (UICA), Looking Forward: The Artwork of Kirk Newman, provides a fresh look at his prolific career.

“It’s a little ‘Mad Men’-esque,” said Alexander Paschka, exhibition curator. “Early in his career, Kirk

Looking Forward: The Art of Kirk Newman

Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, Grand Rapids Nov. 7, 2014-Feb. 8, 2015 uica.org, (616) 454-7000

Newman owned a business and he understands the life he depicts — the responsibility, burdens and rewards. He found his niche continuing to analyze this.

“Plus he was one of the most fun artists to meet,” said Paschka, adding Newman’s personality helps infuse his art with an engaging human connection. “Now in his late 80s, he’s still got a lot of zip to him. That’s the word that comes to mind: zippy. His optimism is so great.” n

REVUEWM.COM | November 2014 |

Scene | Sounds | Sights Diing | Schedule

Tanglefoot Building 314 Straight Ave. SW, Grand Rapids Nov. 21, 5:30-9:30 p.m.; Nov. 23, noon-4 p.m.

By Kerri VanderHoff

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indie film

By Josh Spanninga

This month households across America sit down and make a list of everything they’re thankful for. We here at Revue are no exception, and have written our own list. Grandma? Check. Pizza?

You betcha. Michigan-made movies? Hell yes!

Saugatuck Cures Brings Spotlight to, well, Saugatuck

I

Familiar Productions Begins Work on Latest Feature, Remotion Schedule | Dining | Sights Sounds | Scene

I

f you’re settling in for a movie and are in the mood for a heartwarming pick-me-up, it’d probably be best to stay away from anything Ryan Lieske makes. With death, the occult and psychosis as common themes, it’s safe to say none of Lieske’s films will end up on the Hallmark Channel, but that’s OK with him.

In fact, that’s exactly why Lieske created the Grand Rapids-based production company Familiar Productions – to make movies that eschew current convention and remind audiences of the good old days of grindhouse and horror, albeit with a bit of an artistic flair.

“My goal is just to put out movies for me and my friends,” Lieske said. “Familiar Productions’ motto is ‘unfamiliar entertainment,’ so we try to break the mold, we try to skirt the fine line between art and exploitation.”

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Lieske’s obsession with film began when his parents tried to censor what he watched as a child. That only piqued his curiosity, and helped spark his interest in the grimmer aspects of life.

“Horror movies were kind of like the taboo,” Lieske said. “I wasn’t allowed to watch them growing up, so of course I sought out friends who had cable and smuggled tapes in the house when my parents were gone.”

Lieske has come a long way since those days. His work has appeared at film festivals around the world, his project Down to Sleep was featured at 2011’s Thriller! Chiller! Film festival, and he even found time to direct a couple of music videos for West Michigan synth-pop act Alexis (whose members, according to Liekse, are also fans of the macabre).

Lieske has only just begun, though. His latest film, Remotion, will start shooting this month in and around Grand Rapids with a cast and crew comprised primarily of local talent. Working local is a concept Lieske is familiar with.

“Even my friend in L.A. is like ‘Don’t come out here. We don’t even make movies out here. We send them to Ohio or Montreal or something,’” Lieske said. “So I don’t see the point of going off somewhere to do what I know I can just do here.”

The film itself focuses on a fictional drug created by a mysterious man simply named The Pharmacist, a drug that provides its users with enlightenment, but also makes them commit suicide in unique and memorable ways.

If that sounds a little too heavy, don’t worry.

“It’s a very grim movie,” Lieske said. “But there are surprising moments of humor in it, because I don’t believe in not having a little of both in everything.”

Will Remotion be the next big thing to come out of West Michigan? Only time will tell, but Lieske and the Familiar crew remain hopeful, looking to follow in the footsteps of other Grand Rapids filmmakers.

“Look at Joel Potrykus. And Dan Falicki’s got distribution deals with his movies, Chris Randall with America’s Most Haunted,” Lieske said. “We’re getting there, there’s a lot of us breaking out that are making strides. I hope to do that with Remotion.” n

f you’ve been keeping up with the film festival circuit lately, you may have heard of a little film that’s making a splash called Saugatuck Cures.

The comedy follows best friends Brett (Dan Mooney) and Drew (Max Adler) as they set about to raise money to treat Drew’s mother’s cancer by posing as exgay ministers and raising money through a traveling gay conversion therapy scheme.

Before Director Matthew Ladensack read the script, he had never been to Saugatuck, which was quickly remedied when Screenwriter Jay Paul Deratany invited him to his cottage in town.

“I got to go and take a look at it, and I fell in love with the town,” Ladensack said. “It’s so peaceful and Norman Rockwellesque, and that’s very me, so I connected with it.”

This sold Ladensack on the idea of filming in Saugatuck, and he only became more enamored with the town as production moved along.

“Filming in Saugatuck was fantastic because we found that the community really opened its doors and let us film at locations that would otherwise have been really difficult,” Ladensack said.

“We basically didn’t have to permit anything, and locations were also not only willing to work with us, but excited to.”

Currently, Saugatuck Cures is still making waves in the festival circuit, with Ladensack and crew hoping to get a distribution plan together for the film in the near future. For more information, go to saugatuckcuresmovie.com

by Josh Spanninga

COMEDY

From Radio to the Stage: Roy Wood Jr.’s Journey to Stand-up

M

Roy Wood Jr. Dr. Grins, Grand Rapids Nov. 20-22, show times at 5:30, 8, 9 and 10:30 p.m. $10-$20 thebob.com, (616) 356-2000

shows. While Wood still dabbles in radio a bit, it’s easy to see his stand-up career has eclipsed his desire to be heard on the airwaves.

Then, in 2012, Wood got the offer to appear on the TBS sitcom “Sullivan and Son” in a recurring role as a character named, well, Roy. While he’s thrilled to be on the show, at the end of the day Wood says every project he takes on is a way to further his stand-up.

“As a stand-up comic, you want to challenge yourself in other facets of entertainment,” Wood said. “So being funny, plus being an actor, helps to bring more people to your stand-up.”

Of course, working on all of these projects, from “Sullivan and Son” to his “Guaranteed Ass Whoopins” video series, takes a lot of time, which Wood could nor-

mally use to write new material. Still, he isn’t in any mood to turn down any opportunities.

“For me, now is the time to work harder,” Wood said. “Now is the time to work all night, getting something done instead of slacking back, because none of this is permanent, and this comedian that you may have liked five, 10 years ago, nobody’s heard much from them lately.”

There’s no way Wood is ready to fade out of the scene anytime soon. If you missed him in August when the “Sullivan and Son” tour stopped at Dr. Grins, don’t worry — he’ll be back in Grand Rapids on Nov. 20-22 in support of his own tour.

With more than a decade of experience under his belt, Wood has a stand-up philosophy of his own, one that helps him deliver the laughs.

“I feel like the best comedy is constructed with the purpose of telling the audience one of two things: Who are you as a person or how do you feel about something in the world,” Wood said. “For me, that is the foundation of good comedy material.” n

Scene | Sounds | Sights Diing | Schedule

o st o f t h e b i g g e st co m i c s out there are used to doing early morning on-air interviews on radio shows every once in a while. Comedian Roy Wood Jr., however, has been on both sides of the mic; not only as the interviewee, but also as radio host. Upon graduating from Florida A&M University with a degree in broadcast journalism, Wood set out for a career in radio, which he thought would be a perfect supplement to his dreams of performing stand-up.

What Wood discovered in his years as a radio host surprised him.

“I thought radio was going to help my comedy,” Wood said. “I guess in a sense it did, but radio didn’t make me funnier. I feel like radio gave me the opportunity to understand how other people see the world, through the callers and interacting with the listeners.

When you start understanding and seeing how other people see things, you can better analyze stuff.”

For years, Wood balanced his stand-up career with his job as a radio host, performing prank calls and appearing on various morning

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33

Missy Black’s

STYLe NOTeS

B

e a part of the jb and me Style Event Fundraiser with a New Twist! on Nov. 6 at 6 p.m. Both the Holland and Grand Rapids jb and me locations host a benefit for Women At Risk, which focuses on human trafficking. Think of it as a have-style-will-travel sort of theme featuring a bus at both stores. Hop on that bus for wine and appetizers and get whisked away to the other location. Upon arrival, indulge in (more) wine, a mashed potato bar (think mashed regular or sweet potatoes with toppings served in cute martini glasses ) and a Chinese auction filled with items from the store. Live models showcase fall trends with personal shoppers on hand. “It’s a relaxed style show with the opportunity to shop,” said Dani Kool, jb and me assistant manager and personal shopper. Tickets are $25 and of course, seating is limited. To buy tickets, call the store you wish to start at: Holland at (616) 392-8902 or Grand Rapids at (616) 949-9501.

Schedule | Dining | Sights Sounds | Scene

It’s a move and a new bridal inventory for Spring Sweet. The new location at 56 East 8th St. in Holland is noteworthy enough, but the lifestyle boutique will now offer bridal selections as store owner Spring Sweet (who shares her name with her store) bought out September’s Bride of Holland. Spring Sweet offers women’s clothing, accessories and home décor as well as fresh flowers daily. “The person that loves our style will find it natural to add bridal to that. It’s a fun add on.”

The new arrangement features the mainstay business on the main floor with bridal offerings upstairs. “We bought all of their inventory and are excited to carry that, but put a Spring Sweet twist on it—our version of the Spring Sweet bride.” Visit the new store in person or online on Facebook or at springsweet.com The Conscious Collective may have slipped under your radar. The upscale consignment store features high-quality, like-new clothing for men and women along with vintage and modern home décor items and maternity clothing as well. The focus is on repurposing and revitalizing clothing, with an eye on local artisans. The store is “inclusive, fashionable and fun,” according to

Erin Gan & Katrin Ophoff

34 | REVUEWM.COM | November 2014

Spring Sweet

co-owner Erin Gant, who, along with her sister Katrin Ophoff, stock the store with sizes from XS to XXXL in men’s and women’s clothing so you’ll find your fit. Look for tons of dresses and men’s button down shirts and designer denim. Thrift and consignment stores are cool because “you find great deals and see how spending affects the greater environment. It’s part of our personal philosophy, reusing and repurposing in our personal lives is important and there’s a big need for that in our city.” The physical location is at 445 Bridge St. NW in Grand Rapids or peek online at theconsciouscollectiveconsignment. com.

Opera Grand Rapids and A.K. Rikk’s partner up to host a Carmen-inspired fashion show Carmen & the Catwalk on Nov. 1.

Folks, this is a full night of festivities starting off with the fashion show, so grab a cocktail, a strolling supper of Spanish tapas and listen to a DJ spin world music while

A.K. Rikk’s reimagines the character Carmen featuring pieces from designer Pamella Roland. “A.K. Rikk’s believes in big-city experiences and never underestimates the people or culture in Grand Rapids,” said A.K. Rikk’s President Jim Murray. Next up is the stage performance of Georges Bizet’s Carmen—a riveting drama of love and jealousy filled with alluring melodies and captivating dances. “We want to bring the drama of opera to the runway,” said Ashley Roberts, Opera GR’s marketing and communications manager. “Opera is dramatic and so is a runway show. It will be cool to see that tie-in.” There’s an afterglow party with the cast of Carmen and a complimentary champagne toast and dessert. For ticket costs and additional details, visit operagr.org/carmen-catwalk. Guys: Men’s fashions are represented as well. Students: You can get an opera ticket for $5 and sit anywhere you want.

Gin + Juice is the brainchild of talented local designer Kathryn Chaplow and with a barware line so stylish it’s perfect for a three-day pop-up shop at Rebel in Grand Rapids. The exquisitely curated collection of vintage and retro items “feel fresh and current and on trend,” said Rebel Owner Dann Boyles. “Styles are changing to contemporary with a few nudges to the past.” Stop in for the opening event Nov. 20 from 5 to 9 p.m. and shop fabulous hostess gifts including a line of amazing candles based off classic cocktails. The Gin + Juice display and sale continues the rest of the weekend. Guests may try the weekend’s signature cocktail and walk away with the recipe as well.

It’s a great course in the bar cart culture that’s picking up speed. n

By Allison Parker

theatre

Other Performing Arts Events Sister Act

Miller Auditorium, Kalamazoo Nov. 1, show times at 3 and 8 p.m. $35-$58 millerauditorium.org, (269) 387-2300 Based on the hit ‘90s film, Sister Act recounts the story of a Catholic monastery that takes a feisty lounge singer under its wing. While the rebellious new sister butts heads with Mother Superior, no one can question her unmistakable musical skill. Before long, the newly dubbed “Sister Mary Clarence” transforms the lifeless, stodgy choir into a booty-shaking powerhouse. Together, Sister Mary Clarence and her convent learn a thing or two about acceptance, love and friendship.

Hair

WMU Theatre Shaw Theatre, Kalamazoo Nov. 14-16, 20-23; show times at 2 & 7:30 p.m. $5-$20 wmich.edu/theatre, (269) 387-6222 One of Broadway’s defining rock musicals, Hair centers around a group of bohemian hippies resisting the Vietnam War draft. As the young rebels become swept up in the turmoil of the ‘60s, they are forced to make important decisions about society, allegiance and identity.

Controversial on many levels, the musical remains an outspoken, edgy addition to the Broadway canon. Due to brief nudity, patrons under 17 will not admitted.

Elf

Santa is supposed to return to the North Pole with a tummy full of cookies and an empty sack. But one fateful year, Santa brings back surprising cargo: a stowaway orphan named Buddy. After a childhood among the elves, adult Buddy returns to New York in search of his father. Upon Buddy’s arrival, he learns there are some serious Santa skeptics in the family and endeavors to teach them the true meaning of Christmas.

G

uy meets girl.

Audiences have come to expect this universal story at the core of many Broadway musicals. Often, however, it is not so much the romantic relationship that draws people toward a particular show.

Rather, it is the packaging around the relationship—the exotic sets, spectacular costumes and dizzying special effects that reel in audiences.

Minimalist and understated, the musical Once flies in face of this tradition. For Once, it’s the special character chemistry that is the focus. All attention is directed toward the two protagonists and the glorious music that showcases their tender, raw emotions.

Our story begins with the aptly named male protagonist, ‘Guy,’ a Dublin busker who has just lost his musical inspiration, along with his girlfriend. Along comes Girl, a young Czech who rekindles Guy’s songwriting spark and perhaps something else as well.

As Guy’s musical career begins to flourish, Girl suggests Guy use his success to move to New York and win back his ex-girlfriend.

While Guy and Girl both develop feelings for each other, Once refuses to tie their storyline up in a neat bow, instead opting to conclude the story in a bittersweet way more representative of actual human experience.

“It’s a very simple story, but it’s beautiful in its simplicity,” said Zander Meisner, who understudies several roles in the show.

“You are never going to be pinned back to your seat with huge amplification and wild costumes. … It’s definitely a more intimate piece. It’s more the type of show you’re going to want to lean in and catch its subtleties. … It’s really a very human story.”

Guy and Girl’s atypical romance has swept audiences and critics alike off their feet, beginning with the Academy-Awardwinning Irish film of the same title. Since the film’s adaptation into a musical in 2011, Once has earned an impressive array of awards, including the Tony for Best Musical.

Critics have praised the musical for its emotional poignancy in particular, an aspect intensified by the audience’s immersion into

Once

Broadway Grand Rapids DeVos Performance Hall Nov. 4-9, show times at 1,2, 6:30, 7:30 & 8 p.m. $30-$75 broadwaygrandrapids.com, (616) 235-6285

Guy and Girl’s world. In order to effectively suck theatergoers into the events onstage, Once leaves the show’s musical performances entirely in the hands of the actors. “[Once] kind of breaks ground to give you an all-encompassing musical experience,” Meisner said. “It’s great that they’ve created theatre where there isn’t a disconnect at all between the songs and the actor creating it. And that’s why I think this is a really great, new, different theatrical experience.

Because everyone onstage creates all of the sounds that you hear, and so it’s a kind of ephemeral experience—very subtle and nuanced that I don’t think a standard musical can create.” n

REVUEWM.COM | November 2014 |

Scene | Sounds | Sights Diing | Schedule

Broadway Grand Rapids DeVos Performance Hall, Grand Rapids Nov. 28-30, show times at 2 & 7:30 p.m. $30-$70 broadwaygrandrapids.com, (616) 235-6285

Once: An Atypical Love Story

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ANY — SO M

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Try some of our glutenfree mozzarella sticks, chicken strips, french fries, sweet potato chips, sandwiches and burgers!

We’ve got gluten-free beer and cider too!

—

2289 E Beltline Ave NE Ste. B greenrestaurantgrandrapids.com (616) 447-8294

Restaurant listings arranged by region

Grand Rapids Angel’s Thai Café 136 Monroe Center NW. 616-454-9801 THAI. This downtown restaurant makes your order fresh, fast, and hot. You can order your entree with your choice of meat and spice level, or create your own. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Thai Steak and Yum Talay.

Bar Divani 15 Ionia Ave. SW. 616-774-WINE. ECLECTIC. Bar Divani offers a sophisticated environment, with the chefs use local ingredients in their creations. Taste the homegrown flavor in the Prosciutto Flatbread, the Linguine Alfredo or the Plum Salmon. By pairing with Dancing Goats Creamery, Otto’s Chicken, S&S Lamb, Ingraberg Farms, Mrs. Dog’s and Madcap, Bar Divani serves extraordinary tastes. But, what would a night out be without a few drinks? The bar serves more than 300 types of liquor, 300 wines and 50 beers to compliment each handcrafted meal. » SERVING: Dinner after 4 p.m. OPEN ON: Everyday but Sunday. GO THERE FOR: Local Cuisine.

Bentham’s Riverfront Restaurant 187 Monroe Ave. NW. 616-774-2000 AMERICAN. Enjoy great breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert options while looking out at the Grand River. Bentham’s now offers a lunch buffet with choices of salads, breads, soups and roast beef and poultry carved to order — not to mention stir-fry stations with fresh vegetables, meats or seafood and unique sauces. Casual attire. » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch OPEN ON: Open 7 days, closes at 2 p.m. GO THERE FOR: Lunch buffet.

Big O Café 80 Ottawa NW. 616-451-1887 ITALIAN. The downtown (and downstairs) restaurant has a reliable menu featuring pizza, pasta, and sandwiches that are Italian and Cuban influenced. A great spot for lunch or a quick glass of wine and plate of pasta before a downtown event. » SERVING: Lunch

The Bistro 11 Monroe Avenue NW (at Courtyard Marriott).

616-242-6000 AMERICAN. Serving American food bistro-style, whether it’s grab-and-go or guests dining in for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The Bistro offers fresh seasonal options, serves Starbucks beverages and has a full-service bar. » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days GO THERE FOR: Sandwiches.

Bistro Bella Vita 44 Grandville Ave. SW. 616-222-4600 ITALIAN. One of Grand Rapids’ best dining experiences, featuring Mediterraneaninspired country cuisine, a swanky yet comfortable downtown atmopshere and personable service. BBV’s culinary team creates authentic, housemade recipes made with locally grown produce, fresh seafood and rotisserie roasted meats.

Specialty gluten-free menu, and can prepare custom dishes for lactose intolerant, vegetarian, and vegan diets. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Mediterranean Country Cuisine and Martinis.

Blue Water Grill 5180 Northland Dr. 616-363-5900 SEAFOOD. One of Grand Rapids’ most inspired restaurants in terms of overall ambiance, with Frank Lloyd Wright-style architecture, a stunningly massive fireplace, and some of the best water views in West Michigan. The food is similarly inspired, drawing from Italian, Mediterranean and classic American influences. All the traditional favorites are accounted for with a wide variety of wood-fired pizzas, seafood, steaks, chops, salads, and sandwiches. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Grass Fed Beef.

Bobarino’s 20 Monroe Ave. NW. 616-356-2000 ITALIAN. A melting pot of food, live entertainment and fun. Live music Tuesday through Saturday, including rock, jazz, retro, country, rockabilly and more. Large game room with video games, billiards and shuffleboard. Menu includes vast array of wood-fired pizzas, plus burgers, entrées and classic appetizers. Lunch buffet with pizza, pasta, and salad for $6.45. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Wood-fired pizzas.

Bombay Cuisine 1420 Lake Dr. SE 616-456-7055 INDIAN. Offering savory and subtly spiced dishes from northern India, Bombay Cuisine is a hot spot for those who like to add a little flavor

to their lives. With a lunch buffet served every weekday, this restaurant provides its eaters with an array of traditional Indian cuisine. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days GO THERE FOR: Naan, Butter Chicken.

Brewery Vivant 925 Cherry St. SE. 616-719-1604 BREWPUB. Housed in a former funeral chapel, Brewery Vivant crafts Belgianstyle ales with a focus on barrel aging. The brewpub also brings Belgian tradition when it comes to food, featuring French and Belgian-style meals to pair perfectly with the beer. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: The Burger

question: Why would you want to consume Corner Bar dogs in a hurry rather than savor each bite? » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Hot dogs.

The Cottage Bar 18 Lagrave Ave. SE. 616-454-9088 AMERICAN. The Cottage Bar is the oldest operating restaurant and bar in downtown Grand Rapids. Come in for the Cottage Burger, smothered with green olives, bacon, lettuce, tomato, hickory mayonnaise and Swiss and American cheeses. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Closed Sundays GO THERE FOR: The Cottage Burger.

Bulls Head Tavern 188 Monroe NW. 616-454-3580 AMERICAN. Downtown eatery is a great spot for business lunch or casual pre-show dinner, with a wide-ranging menu that includes salads, burgers, pasta, seafood and steaks. Specialties include the ostrich burger, sashimi tuna and smoked Gouda chicken pasta. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Closed on Sunday. GO THERE FOR: The Ostrich Burger.

Cygnus 27 Cornucopia 187 Monroe Ave. NW. 616-776-6425 ECLECTIC. Enjoy 187 skyline Monroeas Ave. 616-774-2000 DELI. A refreshing the youNW. dine atop the Glass Tower.

Indulge option for on-the-go, or casual, fare. deli in a variety of globally infusedlighter dishes at Enjoy this AAA options such asrestaurant. homemadeCasual soups,attire; salads, Four-Diamond no Panini jacket sandwiches and freshly brewed gourmet»coffee. required.

Private dining also available.

SERVING: SERVING: Breakfast Lunch OPEN ON: Open 7 days.FOR: GO Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days.

GO THERE THERE FOR: Sandwiches.

Seasonal Sunday Brunch.

Chapbook Café 2660 28th St. SE, Grand Rapids. 616-942-0595. CAFE. Take a break from browsing the shelves at Schuler Books with a homemade selection of soups, sandwiches and quiches. Soups are prepared in-house daily and served with fresh baked bread to accompany a small-but-elegant sandwich menu. Try a quiche or traditional Italian Panini grilled on fresh ciabatta bread, or for a quick bite, grab a bagel or scone from the dessert case. » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days GO THERE FOR: Homemade soups and sandwiches

Erb Thai 950 Wealthy St. SE #1A. (616) 356-2573 THAI. Food rooted in traditional Thai cuisine, but also made to accommodate health conscious and special diets. Not too strong, not too weak, like harmony and melody. Marketing representative Molly Rizor was a Thai virgin when she went and is now glad Erb Thai was her first experience.

SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Peanut Curry Noodles.

CitySen Lounge 83 Monroe Center St. NW. 616-608-1720 AMERICAN. CitySen Lounge, located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, is a bar with a big-city feel, offering exciting options for lunch, dinner and breakfast on the weekends. The focus is on fresh ingredients and a full bar with local brews, wine and creative cocktails. » SERVING: Weekend Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN: Open 7 days GO THERE FOR: Daily happy hour

Fajita Republic Cantina 2183 E. Beltline Ave. 616-272-3047 MEXICAN. A fresh twist on Mexican-inspired cuisine, Fajita Republic uses farm-fresh vegetables, never-frozen meats and limesqueezed margaritas. Fajita entrees are flamed table-side and the owners promise there are no microwaves used at Fajita Republic, ensuring that all meals are made fresh. Additionally, there are 101 tequila varieties, as well as Mexican craft beers, wine and specialty drinks.

SERVING Lunch Dinner. OPEN: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Fajitas, Tequila

The Corner Bar 31 N. Main St. 616-866-9866 AMERICAN. The downtown Rockford tavern serves a solid menu of burgers, burritos, salads and sandwiches, but it is best known for hot dogs — serving almost 1,000 per day. Its hot-dog-eating challenge has been conquered by more than a few, but it raises the

Founders Brewing Company 235 Grandville SW. 616-776-1195 BREWPUB. A beer-lover’s paradise with a national reputation for flavorful, award-winning beers. Likewise, the brewpub’s menu consists mainly of flavorful handcrafted deli sandwiches that can stand up and comple-

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Big Bob’s Pizza 661 Croswell Dr. 616-233-0123 ITALIAN. Located in Gaslight Village in East Grand Rapids (across from Jersey Junction), Big Bob’s is a cozy restaurant that serves up specialty pizzas, pastas, burritos, sandwiches and salads.

Sit out on the deck and enjoy Happy Hour from 4-6 p.m. and 9p.m.-close seven days a week. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 Days. GO THERE FOR: Pizza and beer (is there a better combination?).

Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Dead Head Vegetarian Pizza, Cuban dinners on Friday nights.

REVUE’s dining listings are compiled by staff and minions. This is not intended to be a comprehensive list of restaurants in the region. For an expanded list, be on the lookout for new and improved dining changes on our revamped website, revuewm. com. The listings are not intended to be reviews of West Michigan restaurants, although we will inject some opinions into the listings based on staff experiences and personal preferences. To submit or to correct information in a dining listing, e-mail editor@revuewm.com.

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Dining »

ment the beers (or vice versa). SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Award-winning beer, handcrafted sandwiches.

Garden Court Lounge 187 Monroe Ave. NW. 616-774-2000 LOUNGE. An excellent choice for a quick drink with friends or when you desire relaxing with your favorite drink. The Garden Court Lounge offers a fine array of beer, wine, cocktails and liqueurs. SERVING: Drinks OPEN ON: Open 7 days.

GO THERE FOR: Specialty cocktails.

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Gilly’s 20 Monroe NW. 616-356-2000 SEAFOOD. Gilly’s may not be the biggest name on the seafood block, but it takes second place to no one in regards to quality, freshness and inspiration. A vast array of exotic fish is line-caught, flown in and prepared fresh daily. Every facet of Gilly’s speaks to impeccable attention to detail. SERVING: Dinner OPEN ON: Closed on Sunday. GO THERE FOR: Fresh seafood at a great price.

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GP Sports 187 Monroe Ave. NW 616-776-6495 SPORTS BAR. Catch the big game on one of 30 televisions, including a big screen for optimal game viewing. This colorful and casual restaurant not only caters to sports fans, but also features top-notch burgers, pizzas and specialty drinks. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Score Big Burgers.

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G.R.P.D. (Grand Rapids Pizza and Delivery) 340 State St. SE. 616-454-9204 ITALIAN. The current GR location opened in 2004 as the first established pizzeria in the Heritage Hill district. A common meeting spot for local folks, business professionals and college students, a place where one could gather for a quick meal or a reflective lunch. It offers both hand-tossed pizza and Chicago-style stuffed pizza, as well as pasta, sandwiches, salads, and wings. Online ordering, too. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Pizza.

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Grand Rapids Brewing Company 1 Ionia Ave SW. 616-458-7000 BREWPUB. Good for the environment and your palate, GRBC is Michigan’s first certified organic brewery and features a menu stocked with locally grown ingredients. With a diverse selection of beers on tap inspired by historical Grand Rapids figures and a hearty array of burgers, melts and hand-cranked sausages, this place represents the best of the Grand Rapids Brewing Company’s 120-year legacy. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Organic beer and locally sourced food.

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Grand Woods Lounge 77 Grandville Ave SW. 616-451-4300 AMERICAN. The restaurant’s interior exudes a warm, casual ambiance reminiscent of the great eateries of the Pacific Northwest; the outdoor porch features two outdoor bars and a fireplace. Menu stocked with affordable appetizers great for sharing, plus salads, sandwiches, and entrées. Lots of domestics and microbrews, plus an array of martinis including the “Woodstini,” a tasty mix of Stoli Orange Vodka, mandarin oranges and raspberries. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Cocktails.

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Graydon’s Crossing 1223 Plainfield NE. 616-726-8260 TAVERN. An authentic take on the English Pub, with a huge selection of beers on tap and a menu that includes classic English dishes like Fish & Chips,

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Shepherd’s Pie and Irish Stew, as well as Indian specialties like Tandoori Chicken and Tikka Masala. A great casual atmosphere for drinking and dining. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Beer and authentic pub food.

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Green Restaurant 2289 E Beltline Ave. NE Ste. 8, Grand Rapids. 616-4478294 ORGANIC. The first of its kind, at least in this area, Green Restaurant uses nothing but all-natural and organic ingredients. This includes everything from fruit, vegetables, meat and cheese to juice, ice cream and more. It’s a restaurant where almost anyone with a unique diet could find something to eat within their specifications. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Closed Monday GO THERE FOR: Sandwiches, soups, burgers, smoothies/juice blends.

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The Green Well 924 Cherry SE. 616-808-3566 Eclectic. REVUE’s “Free Market” columnist Steven de Polo writes, “Green Well is the best restaurant in GR.” The East Hills gastro-pub serves up an ever-changing menu featuring local ingredients, and a wide array of local craft brews and wines. The green refers also to the LEED© certified building and management’s commitment to a small carbon footprint. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Baked local goat cheese, Michigan maple whiskey chicken over risotto.

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The Holiday Bar 801 5th St. NW, Grand Rapids. 616-456-9058 AMERICAN. For 107 years, The Holiday Bar has been serving its loyal customers great beer and food, with 12 specialty beers of tap and its homemade “Porter” Pulled Pork sandwiches.

Fully stocked with pool tables and nine HD flat screens, this dive is the perfect spot for cheap beer and good times.

SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Cheap beer.

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Harmony Brewing Company 1551 Lake Dr. SE (616) 233-0063 BREWPUB. Harmony features 12 craft-brewed beers in addition to signature root beer for the kiddos. Named one of the top-five brewpub menus in West Michigan by yours truly, Harmony’s ultimate deal is a take-out combo that features one of its 10” gourmet wood-fired pizzas and a growler of beer for $20, as well as a $5 cheese and $6 pepperoni pizza deal every Tuesday. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Pizza and brews.

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HopCat 25 Ionia SW. 616-451-4677 TAVERN. Rated the 3rd best beer bar on the planet by Beer Advcoate, HopCat’s spin on its food is thus: “It’s the food your Mom would feed you, if your Mom loved beer.” That’s specifically true for HopCat’s beerbar cheese, cheese ale soup and porter braised beef, but mom would also love the Hippie wrap (it’s vegetarian), the crack fries (not real crack), and Killer Mac and Cheese. Because what mom doesn’t like mac and cheese? SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Widest variety of beers, crack fries.

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Lumber Baron Bar 187 Monroe Ave. NW. (616) 774-2000 LOUNGE. Settle into the warmth and charm of this historic bar — complete with a fireplace, leather club chairs and a large selection of premium drinks and appetizers. » SERVING: Dinner OPEN ON: Closed Sundays and Mondays GO THERE FOR: Scotch or Brandy after a Symphony concert.

Marie Catrib’s 1001 Lake Dr. 616-454-4020 ECLECTIC. The East Hills eatery makes everything from scratch with local ingredients, and there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Get there early for lunch, as there is almost always a wait. » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Salads, soups and sandwiches.

Mixology 235 Louis St. NW. 616-242-1448 LOUNGE. Casual, upscale service and atmosphere allows guests to relax and enjoy the city views. This type of service allows guests to complete business tasks while still enjoying the accessibility to great food and libations. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days GO THERE FOR: Specialty cocktails.

O’Toole’s 448 Bridge St. 616-742-6095 PUB. This West side pub is equipped with delicious and outrageously topped burgers, as well as an extensive beer selection, and arguably, the best happy hour specials in town. If food is not your passion, this is a prime place to kick off your Sunday Funday with its $3 Absolut Bloody Mary bar. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 Days. GO THERE FOR: Gourmet burgers, Absolut Bloody Mary bar.

Olive’s Restaurant 2162 Wealthy St. SE. 616-451-8611 ECLECTIC. Gaslight Village mainstay for Easties looking to have a cocktail and casual dinner. The menu is surprisingly broad, with innovative starters (e.g., Napoli fritters, Paella cakes) and diverse entrées like Southern meatloaf, braised short ribs and mobu tofu. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: A broad selection.

One Trick Pony 136 E. Fulton. 616-235-7669 AMERICAN. Connected to The Cottage Bar, One Trick Pony offers an eclectic American menu that ranges from salads, fish, pizza, homemade soups and more. Pair the food with live music, which OTP features weekly. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Eclectic pizzas.

The Pita House 1450 Wealthy SE, 3730 28th Street, 4533 Ivanrest SW (Grandville). 616-454-1171 MEDITERRANEAN. Gyros so big you can club someone with them, the smoothest hummus in town and other Mediterranean fare, including kibbe, kafta and falafel. Additional locations on 28th Street and Kalamazoo SE. Sandwiches are made to order with fresh vegetables and ingredients. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Fresh pita wraps.

Red Jet Cafe 1431 Plainfield Ave. NE. 616-719-5500 ECLECTIC. The funky restaurant in Creston’s old library is the kind of place you’d find in Chicago’s hip neighborhoods, offering non-sequitur menu items that somehow seem to work.

Seriously, how many other places in town can you find that serve high-end organic coffees, crepes, wood-fired pizzas and artisan baked goods. Is it a bistro? Is it a coffeehouse?

Does it matter? » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Crepes.

Reds on the River 8 E Bridge St #100, Rockford. 616-863-8181 AMERICAN. Relaxed ambiance, great food and a view of the river equate to an enjoyable time out. With quality food and fresh ingredients you’re sure to find a meal that tickles

your fancy. Staff is trained to help you should you encounter unfamiliar territory. » SERVING: Lunch, Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days GO THERE FOR: Red’s Steak Burger Reserve Wine & Food 201 Monroe Ave. NW (616) 855-9463 ECLECTIC. With 102 wines available by the glass and more than 300 by the bottle, paired with an ever-changing food menu influenced

by West Michigan grown foods, Reserve promises diners a unique experience. Cocktails and craft beers add depth to the primarily wine-centered menu. » SERVING: Lunch, Dinner OPEN ON: Closed on Sunday GO THERE FOR: Wine and food pairings, charcuterie, happy hour.

Rinaldi Pizza and Sub Shop 966 E. Fulton St. 616-458-3737 ITALIAN. The tiny pizza shop at the corner of Fulton and Diamond is publisher Brian Edwards’ favorite spot to stop for a large slice after a late night at the office. “It’s got the four C’s of pizza going for it: chewy, cheesy, crusty and cheap — with a perfect balance of sauce and cheese,” Edwards says. Fold it over, New York-style, he recommends. » SERVING: Lunch, Dinner. OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Pizza.

Rockwell-Republic 45 S. Division Ave. 616-551-3563 ECLECTIC. Menu offerings range from sushi to burgers and everything in between. The cocktail menu runs the gamut from classics like the Manhattan to more modern variations and the beer and wine menus are nothing to sneeze at either. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Specialty cocktails, broad menu, lively atmosphere.

Rose’s On Reeds Lake 550 Lakeside Dr. SE. 616-458-1122 ECLECTIC. The East Grand Rapids landmark is one of those places that has a different feel in each season. In the summertime, it’s a great spot to hang on the decks and have cocktails and light appetizers; when the snow is falling, it’s a warm and cozy spot for a hearty meal and big glass of wine. The menu draws from a multitude of influences including Mediterranean, Italian, and Casual American. » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Root Chips.

Rush Creek Bistro 624 Port Sheldon St. SW, Grandville 616-457-1100 AMERICAN. Rush Creek Bistro prides itself on having something for everyone. Although the atmosphere is casual, Rush Creek offers a variety of quality options that won’t leave you unsatisfied. From pizza to steak, you’ll find what you’re looking for at a fair price. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: The wet burrito.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House 187 Monroe Avenue NW. 616-776-6426 STEAKHOUSE. Serving only the best steaks, Ruth’s Chris hand-selects its steaks from the top 2% of the country’s beef, which is then broiled to perfection at 1800 degrees. Enjoy the freshest seafood, classic sides and homemade desserts that satisfy any craving. » SERVING: Dinner OPEN ON: Closed Sundays. GO THERE FOR: Steak.

San Chez a Tapas Bistro 38 West Fulton St. 616-774-8272 ECLECTIC. Using available local products, San Chez a Tapas Bistro is a social setting where people can remember the one rule of kindergarten: sharing. Featuring small, delicious dishes, San Chez a Tapas Bistro can satiate your desire for variety. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 Days. GO THERE FOR: Tapas.

San Chez Cafe 38 West Fulton St. 616-774-8272 ECLECTIC. This comfy venue allows customers to “walk on sunshine” with its windowed-out structure. A hidden secret for breakfast in downtown Grand Rapids, San Chez Cafe promises a great start to any day. » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch OPEN ON: Open 7 Days. GO THERE FOR: Sandwiches.

The Score 5301 Northland Dr. NE. 616-301-0600 SPORTS BAR. Multifaceted restaurant and sports bar has a lot to offer, including expansive menu with discount options, happy hour specials, countless big screen TVs broadcasting big games and UFC matches, outdoor beach volleyball and live music in the summer … the list goes on. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Sports bar atmosphere.

The Winchester 648 Wealthy St. SE. 616-451-4969 ECLECTIC. Upscale Wealthy Street bar and restaurant feels like it was plucked from Chicago’s Bucktown or Logan Square neighborhoods. A comfortable spot to drink or dine, with an always evolving menu featuring shared plates, salads and inventive sandwiches. The Cuban Reuben, originally created as something of a joke, remains a (very tasty) staple item. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: DIY Bloody Mary Bar Special, Yucca Fries.

Wolfgang’s Restaurant 1530 Wealthy St. SE. 616-454-5776 BREAKFAST. The bustling Eastown breakfast spot is home to some of the heartiest breakfast dishes and funniest menu descriptions. Courteous

staff never fails to offer a cup of coffee to go after we’ve finished breakfast. » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Breakfast all day.

Lakeshore 8th Street Grille 20 W. 8th St., Holland. 616-392-5888 AMERICAN. This eclectic grille offers a mix of draft and bottled craft beers and a variety of pub classics and new, American beer-

inspired dishes. Happy hour includes half-off appetizers and $1 off drafts. » SERVING: Lunch, Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: 28 taps of craft beer.

84 East 84 East 8th St., Holland. 616-396-8484 ITALIAN. While we categorize it as “Italian,” that’s a bit limiting for this downtown Holland spot, which specializes in creating inventive pasta dishes. Housed in an old industrial building, 84 East is a favorite splurge spot among REVUE’s Hope College minions. 84 East also serves up designer pizzas and a few non-pasta house specialties like Pork Marsala and Mahi Mahi. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Closed Sunday GO THERE FOR: Baked Spaghetti Pie, Tuxedo Chicken Pasta.

Six.One.Six. 235 Louis St. NW. 616-242-1448 ECLECTIC. Marketinspired menus, sweeping views and progressive rhythms combine to create a memorable dining experience. The dishes tempt taste buds and is the perfect spot for foodies. » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 Days GO THERE FOR: Variety and being seen.

Speak EZ Lounge 600 Monroe Ave. NW. 616-458-3125 ECLECTIC. While this lounge may be modeled after the year 1933, its food is not. Speak EZ Lounge offers a variety of food for all to enjoy whether you’re omnivore, vegan or gluten free. Come in for a bite of Rustic Sage Risotto that goes perfectly with one of the lounges signature drinks. » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days GO THERE FOR: The diverse menu Stella’s Lounge 53 Commerce Ave. 616-356-2700 TAVERN. The Chicagostyle whiskey bar has more than 200 varieties of distilled spirits, old-school video games, a superexcellent jukebox stocked with rock and punk classics, and a menu filled with vegetarian and vegan bar food — and stuffed burgers. Did we mention you can sip cans of PBR and other classic beers out of a mason jar? » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Vegetarian and vegan bar food.

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Terra GR 1429 Lake Dr. 616-301-0998 AMERICAN. Terra boasts fresh, healthy ingredients in all of its menu items. The restaurant doesn’t feature one menu, either. It offers a Saturday and Sunday brunch menu, as well as menus for lunch, dinner, dessert, beverages, wine, happy hour and kids.

The food is inspired by the seasons and ingredients come straight from one of Michigan’s many farms. » SERVING: Brunch Lunch Dinner. OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Fresh foods with ingredients from regional growers.

Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill 760 Butterworth St. SW. 616-272-3910 AMERICANA. You might walk into Tip Top for the cheap happy hour specials or one of the many rockabilly acts. But get comfortable with one of the venue’s signature menu items. Get classic with a sandwich or burger, but we recommend immersing yourself fully in GR’s west side and ordering Tip Top’s Polish Plate. » SERVING: Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Dinner, drinks and a show.

REVUEWM.COM | November 2014 |

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taste this

By Alexandra Kadlec

Thanksgiving-Themed Feasting The all-you-can-eat holiday may still be weeks away, but you can satisfy your craving for traditional Thanksgiving Day fare today. Whether a twist on a classic or simply an alternative dish (or drink) with turkey day ingredients, the treats below are sure to leave you feeling thankful.

Kalamazoo). This dish gets sweet with a maple syrup sesame soy glaze that tops the salmon, alongside ginger sushi rice, steamed greens and a cucumber relish.

Sweet Potatoes

A versatile vegetable that’s found its way into soups, hummus, baked goods and more, the sweet potato seems destined for enjoyment outside the confines of a casserole dish (not that it’s not delicious). Be adventurous and get down with the Boogie Veggie at Maru Sushi & Grill (927 Cherry St. SE, Grand Rapids)—it’s a plentiful roll with radish sprouts, cucumber, avocado, asparagus and kampyo topped with tempura fried sweet potato slices and a sweet in-house dressing.

Turkey

The Turkey Sandwich at The Green Well (924 Cherry St. SE, Grand Rapids) is chock full of comfort food fixings, and then some.

Feast on turkey, sweet potatoes, coleslaw, smoked bacon and white cheddar drizzled with tomato vinaigrette—all grilled between slices of sourdough. Uncle Cheetah’s (1133 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids) offers a spicy spin on your standard turkey sandwich. It’s called the Ruffled Feathers, and it features turkey, smoked Gouda and jalapeno-tomato jam.

Pecans

Chewy, salty and sweet is the combo that makes pecan pie so darn tasty, and the same can be said for a dish to dig into for breakfast at Crow’s Nest (816 S. Westnedge Ave., Kalamazoo). With the Amaretto Pecan French Toast, you get a generous serving of Fourth Coast Bakery challah bread topped with gourmet amaretto syrup, cinnamon cream syrup and yes—pecans.

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Corn

Predictable but good on the cob or as a side dish, we’re giving you a few reasons to gobble up corn in a new, more gourmet fashion. At Salt of the Earth (114 E. Main St., Fennville), the Masa Gnocchi brings together tomato, roasted sweet onions, sweet corn and cilantro for a taste that’s anything but familiar. For something even more unusual, try the Sweet Corn-Parmesan Hush Puppies at Grove Restaurant (919 Cherry St. SE, Grand Rapids). These warm little puffs—a different take on a Southern classic—are served with pico de gallo and chipotle corn vinaigrette.

Cranberries

Cranberry sauce tends to feel a bit old-fashioned, but that doesn’t mean the sweetened fruits in other forms are boring. How about in your cocktail? Martell’s (3501 Greenleaf Blvd., Kalamazoo) has the Autumn Punch Martini on its list, a sweet concoction of Apple Pucker with Riesling and cran-apple

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Pumpkin

Turkey Sandwich, The Green Well

juice. For something a little more exotic, try the Midnight Orchid at Field Stone Grill (3970 W. Centre Ave., Portage), which mixes together vanilla vodka, pineapple rum, cranberry juice, Chambord and a splash of cream.

If you’d rather take your cranberry fix in chewy, carb-heavy form, pick up a fresh loaf of Cranberry Walnut Bread. Sugar Momma’s Bakery & Café (6504 28th St. SE, Grand Rapids) and The Victorian Bakery (116 W Crosstown Pkwy. #102, Kalamazoo) both sell this yummy treat—but you’ll have to wait for winter to try the latter.

Maple

Warm maple syrup: a tantalizing complement to cool fall days. Enjoy a bit of local flavor at Everyday People Café (11 Center St., Douglas), where brunch turns into an indulgent affair with menu items like golden Malted Waffles topped with mascarpone cream, fruit and Michigan bourbon maple syrup.

In a completely different category is the Sesame Ginger Salmon served at Food Dance (401 E. Michigan Ave. #100,

Last but not least: we’d be remiss not to mention the dish you somehow manage to stuff into your mouth after consuming a few thousand calories. A close enough relative of the sweet potato, pumpkin can join in a lot of different cuisines. We’re suggesting you drink up this classic dessert spice at Paw Paw Brewing Company (929 E. Michigan Ave., Paw Paw), which serves up a seasonal Twisted Pumpkin brew. It’s not pumpkin pie—but that’s not to say you can’t serve it with some. And if you’re in search of another sweetly satisfying option, go for Michigan’s own Hudsonville pumpkin pie ice cream. It’s creamier than you can imagine, with pie crust pieces mixed in.

Check out hudsonvilleicream.com to find out which regional stores are selling it (or just order it online). n

Holland + Grand Rapids / cityflatshotel.com REVUEWM.COM | November 2014 |

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stay. dine.

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/// Beer

Michigan Brown Ale Face-off The lowly brown ale never receives the love or fervent adulations that many other popular beer styles get.

But that doesn’t mean craft beer lovers should pass over brown ales. In fact, they’re often very balanced beers with malty, earthy, nutty and rich flavors. They’re also a beer that tends to be somewhat on the sweet side. Lately, many of the American craft brewers have been experimenting with adding more hops to the bill to appeal to hopheads as well.

With that in mind, the intrepid beer lovers at Revue decided to do a face-off with 10 Michigan-made brown ales to see which we liked best.

The brown ales Cabin Fever

New Holland Brewing Co., Holland, 6.25% ABV This was the top choice for three of the four judges. It pours almost coffee-colored with a good head and a smoky, earthy aroma. The flavor mirrors the aroma on this very smooth and creamy ale, which has a slightly boozy finish. “It’s really good all around,” Manes wrote. An excellent example of the style.

Score: 90.0

Compiled by Joe Boomgaard

Coconut Brown

The Process The judges did a blind tasting of 10 beers and rated them based on appearance (10 points), aroma (20 points), flavor/finish (30 points), body (20 points) and overall impressions (20 points). The scores listed here are an average of the judges’ ratings based on a 100-point scale, with 100 being a perfect score.

Blackrocks Brewery, Marquette 6.8% ABV Pours with more head than most browns, but its true appealing quality is the complex and accessible flavor, which was sweet and malty and yet sharp like a nut. It was a standout brown upon the first sip. Very well done. “I could have this beer anytime,” Boomgaard wrote.

Score: 86.25

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Bonfire Brown

The Judges Joe Boomgaard Beer Czar of Revue West Michigan and Managing Editor of MiBiz. Listens to (good) metal 24/7.

Kim Kibby Creative Director of Revue West Michigan.

Ardent Nick Cave fan.

42 | REVUEWM.COM | November 2014

Nick Manes John Wiegand Beer Bro of Revue MiBiz Staff Writer West Michigan and and de facto “new Staff Writer at MiBiz. guy.” Probably Loves to “get jooky” listens to indie folk with Danny Brown. while he makes quinoa on a daily basis.

Saugatuck Brewing Co., Saugatuck, 5.5% ABV Pours somewhat cloudy. The smell is slightly sweet, but it appeared that the brewer really refined this beer for its rich, malty flavor. Judges praised the beer for its balanced, hearty qualities and great mouthfeel. A solid brown ale.

Score: 82.0

Hoptown Brown

Arbor Brewing Co., Ann Arbor 7.3% ABV

This beer seemed more experimental than the others with its generous use of earthy hops that pulled through in the aroma and in the taste. It’s a nice chewy, medium-bodied beer with a dry finish. Seems like it’s a brown ale/ IPA hybrid, and that’s OK by us.

Score: 80.5

Boffo Brown

Dark Horse Brewing Co., Marshall, 6.5% ABV This beer had only a slight coffee aroma, but three of the judges loved its flavor profile and abbreviated aftertaste. “It’s nutty with a nice, smooth, dry-ish finish,” Kibby wrote.

However, Manes was put off by hints of banana he detected in the flavor.

Score: 72.25

Best Brown Ale

Bell’s Brewery Inc., Kalamazoo 5.8% ABV This brown ale was pretty basic with a sweet, slightly nutty flavor. Wiegand liked its “sweet smell that comes through into the taste almost fruity.”

There was not too much going on, and nothing over the top, either. A fairly light-bodied, no-frills brown.

Score: 68.75

Jon Brown

Cellar Brewing Co., Sparta 5.7% ABV

The beer definitely displayed hints of roasted coffee in the nose and the flavor. However, the judges unanimously agreed the taste did not live up to its sweet, boozy aromas. Some

noted that it had a slightly metallic aftertaste.

Score: 66.25

How Now Brown Cow

Odd Side Ales, Grand Haven 6.0% ABV

Pours very dark with only a slight head. It’s an incredibly sweet-smelling beer — perhaps excessively so — that the flavor just can’t live up to.

The taste also really drops off fast.

Maybe this one will grow on you. “My tastebuds are confused, but I don’t mind it,” Kibby wrote.

Score: 60.75

Bellaire Brown

Short’s Brewing Co., Bellaire 7.0% ABV

This brown ale had an appearance like motor oil with almost no head and a buttery/boozy or almost toasted smell with hints of bourbon.

The smell was better than the taste here, which was very malty with a bit of caramel. “Just not much going on,” Manes wrote.

Score: 53.0

Lift Bridge Brown

Keweenaw Brewing Co., Houghton, 5.0% ABV The taste was just plain off. The flavor seemed watered down, slightly sour, and harsh — and not in a good way.

(Note: A check of the can afterwards found a date of June 24, 2014. Given the age, we’d give this one a pass for now and look for a fresher example.)

Score: 29.75

learn it. brew it. drink it.

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REVUEWM.COM | November 2014 |

Scene | Sounds | Sights Dining Schedule

418 ADA DRIVE SE, ADA GRAVELBOTTOM.COM 616.920.7398

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Dining Bil-Mar Restaurant 1223 S. Harbor St., Holland. 616-842-5920 AMERICAN. A destination restaurant for locals and tourists for more than 60 years. Dazzling sunsets and an all-American menu featuring fresh seafood and hand-cut steaks. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Lake perch, lobster strudel, prime rib.

CityVu Bistro 61 E 7th Street, Holland. 616-796-2114 AMERICAN. A distinctive rooftop dining experience in downtown Holland with fresh gourmet flatbreads and an array of seasonal entrees are in. The contemporary-yet-casual atmosphere, full bar and unique menus make it the ideal spot for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days GO THERE FOR: flatbreads Everyday People Cafe 11 Center St., Douglas. 269-857-4240 AMERICAN. REVUE Publisher Brian Edwards calls Everyday People Café his favorite restaurant along the lakeshore. The atmosphere is casual and upbeat, the staff knows its stuff about wine and food, and the seasonal menu is filled with meticulously prepared, eclectic comfort food like Butternut Squash Risotto, Braised Lamb Shank and Ahi Tuna. A great wine list and tremendous desserts. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Gorgonzola Pork Chop, Greek Salad with Grandma Gigi’s Dressing (Edwards).

Schedule Dining Sights | Sounds | Scene

Fricano’s Pizza Tavern 1400 Fulton Ave., Grand Haven. 616-842-8640 ITALIAN. Claims to be the first pizzeria in Michigan, but customers

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care less about its longevity than the amazingly crispy thin crust and simple ingredients atop its much-lauded pies.

Four other locations around West MI, including Comstock Park, Muskegon, Holland and Kalamazoo. » SERVING: Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Pizza.

Kirby House 2 Washington, Grand Haven. 616-846-3299 AMERICAN. The Grill Room doesn’t pretend to be anything other than what it is — a chop house and grill. Atmosphere is warm with Tuscan tones, atmospheric lighting, classically cool music and leather booths. The menu focuses on steaks and chops and makes no apologies. The steaks are prime USDA choice, the seafood selection immaculate, and the wine and beverage list is top shelf. Relaxed and unpretentious atmosphere. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days.

GO THERE FOR: Nightlife.

Mia & Grace 1133 3rd St., Muskegon. 231-725-9500 AMERICAN. Calls itself a bakery and bistro, but that’s too limiting to describe the creativity of Mia & Grace’s menu. The farm-to-table eatery in downtown Muskegon is casual and comfortable and serves lots of one-of-a-kind items like the Pork Belly Reuben or the Duck PB&J (duck confit, carmelized onions, cashew-peanut butter, green pepper jelly, anadama bread). » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch OPEN ON: Closed on Sunday.

GO THERE FOR: Salads, Soups, Creme Brulee.

New Holland Brewing Company 66 E. 8th St., Holland. 616-355-6422 BREWPUB. One of West MI’s premier microbreweries serves up better than average pub grub, including the Tarheel barbecue Pulled Pork, Grilled Portobello and The Treehugger, which is billed as “a vegetar-

ian sandwich utopia.” » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Mad Hatter IPA, Dragon’s Milk.

Phil’s Bar & Grille 215 Butler St., Saugatuck. 269-857-1555 AMERICAN. This cozy (some would say “small”) bar and grille in downtown Saugatuck is one of those unassuming spots you might easily overlook, though locals in Saugatuck will tell you about their love affair with Phil’s. Eclectic menu is all over the place, but in a good way, and the staff is super-friendly. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Portabella Mushroom Fries.

Piper Restaurant 2225 South Shore Drive, Holland. 616-335-5866 AMERICAN. Upscale-but-casual spot located on Lake Macatawa, offering great views from virtually every table.

Menu includes tastefully prepared items like Almond Crusted Walleye and Grilled Pork Loin, as well as wood-fired pizzas.

Reservations are welcomed. » SERVING: Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Almond Crusted Walleye.

wine, food and service. Try one of 12 unique brews that are served in the pub and bottled and distributed throughout the Midwest. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days.

GO THERE FOR: Beer in a family friendly pub environment.

Vitale’s of Zeeland 59 W. Washington St. (616) 772-5900 ITALIAN. This family owned restaurant specializes in Italian dining, but also has a full menu including Mexican and American specialties. Family friendly atmosphere with newly remodeled dining, and an expanded sports bar with big screen TVs. Happy hour specials, live music every Saturday and has been voted Best Pizza seven years in a row by the Grand Rapids Press. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Pizza.

Kalamazoo/Battle Creek

Salt of the Earth 114 East Main St., Fennville. 269-561-7258 AMERICAN. Salt of the Earth is a farm-to-table-inspired restaurant, bar, and bakery located in the heart of SW Michigan farm country in Fennville. Focuses on fresh, seasonal, and local ingredients whenever possible. Also serves up live music on weekends. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: House made rustic cuisine.

Arcadia Brewing Co. 103 Michigan Ave., Battle Creek. 269-963-9520 BREWPUB. You’ll find some of the usual suspects on the Battle Creek brewpub’s menu, including wood-fired pizzas and some of the best barbecue in the region. But you’ll also find some delightful surprises — Osso Bucco in a brewpub?! — on the menu, courtesy of award-winning Chef Sean Kelly. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Handcrafted ales and barbecue.

Saugatuck Brewing Company 2948 Blue Star Highway. 269-857-7222 BREWPUB. Enjoy a traditional Irish-style pub that features quality beer,

Bell’s Eccentric Cafe 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave. 269-382-2332 BREWPUB. Eccentric Café’s regular menu of appetizers, sandwiches, sides and

salads — plus the daily soups and specials — exists for a simple and important purpose: to complement the Kalamazoo microbrewery’s award-winning beers. Eat up while you drink up. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: The Beer.

Bravo!

5402 Portage Rd., Kalamazoo 269-344-7700 ITALIAN. Much-lauded restaurant has earned its stripes over 23 years as one of the region’s best dining experiences, including a 3-star rating in the 2010 Forbes Travel Guide. The Tuscaninspired cuisine is spectacular, the atmosphere comfortable and intimate, and the service first-rate. Also brews its own beer in small batches for pairings with menu offerings. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. (Closed Sat. lunch) GO THERE FOR: A great dining experience.

Fieldstone Grille 3970 W. Centre St., Portage. 269-321-8480 AMERICAN. Lodge-retreat atmosphere overlooking the Moors Golf Club natural wetlands. The “field-to-plate” menu features burgers, pizzas, steaks and some eclectic items like quail. Try the FSG chips, a combination of potato, beet and sweet potato chips. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Blue Burger, Almond Crusted Walleye, FSG Chips.

Food Dance 401 E. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo. 269-382-1888 AMERICAN. Food Dance is committed to building a thriving and sustainable local food system, supporting artisans who practice craft food processes. It’s about the connection with people and places the food comes from.

Offering breakfast, lunch and dinner, private dining space, catering and delivery, while an on-site market offers

humanely raised meats, artisan cheeses, fresh bread and pastries. » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Fresh Local Foods.

Old Burdicks Bar & Grill 100 W. Michigan Ave. (269) 226-3192 AMERICAN. Old Burdick’s Bar & Grill features tasty sandwiches, burgers, salads and entrees, as well as a great selection of cocktails, wines and beers. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner. OPEN: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: The Old Burdick Burger.

Martell’s 3501 Greenleaf Blvd., Kalamazoo. 269-375-2105 AMERICAN. Tucked away in a quiet neighborhood that overlooks Willow Lake, Martell’s offers casual ambiance and an expansive menu with steaks, prime rib and other comfort food entrées like Italian style meatloaf and pork shank. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days (Sundaysdinner only) GO THERE FOR: Quiet casual ambiance.

Union Cabaret & Grille 125 S. Burdick St., Kalamazoo. 269-384-6756 AMERICAN. A partnership with Western Michigan University, Union features eclectic food and cocktails, plus live jazz music performed by WMU faculty and students. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Closed Sunday. GO THERE FOR: Portabella Fries, Bloody Maries with infused vodkas. n

Scene | Sounds | Sights Dining Schedule

CALL US TODAY! Michæl L. Keil, D.O., FAOCO 2500 E. Beltline SE, Suite C Grand Rapids, MI info@keillasik.com (616) 365-5775

REVUEWM.COM | November 2014 |

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The Schedule Get Scheduled! E-mail your info to schedule@revuewm.com or add your events into our calendar at revuewm.com.

saturday

11.01

The B.O.B Zombie Apocalypse Halloween Bash Barnes & Noble Woodland Mall Local Author Signing with Michael Hauser & Marianne Weldon Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Cosby Sweater wsg Citizen Billy’s The Soul Syndicate The Corner Record Shop Pile of Craft Czar’s 505 Kris Hitchcock and Small Town Son DeVos Performance Hall Opera GR Presents Carmen DeVos Place There’s No Place Like Home Gala Dog Story Theater The Rocky Horror Show

Downtown Market Dia de los Muertos: Sugar Skulls Dr. Grins Dave Dyer Farmers Alley Theatre The Tiger Who Came to Tea Foundry Hall Claudia Schmidt Four Winds Casino Smash Kings Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors GRAM Marks of Genius GR Public Library Día de los Muertos: Honoring Day of the Dead GR Public Museum Real Pirates Howard Chenery Auditorium The Talleys Howmet Playhouse Ben Bedforf wsg Katie Beaman The Intersection Oceans Over Earth, Evac Denied, 6 Prong Paw & Anchors Calling; SoMo Presents: The Wide Awake Tour wsg Francesco Yates Packy

KIA A Collector’s Eye, Double Take, Lasting Legacy, The Arts of Japan and China Ladies Literary Club River City Improv Lemon Creek Winery Taste of Autumm Louie’s Trophy House Grill The Waxies, Sailor Kicks, Jessie Ray, Carolina Catfish MercuryHead Gallery Debra Van Deusen Pottery & Sculpture Miller Auditorium Sister Act Mulligan’s Pub Mingus, Bitters, Politikil Muskegon Museum of Art West MI Symphony: Celebrating 75 Years, Remember and Rebuild, Stuart Klipper Old Dog Tavern BenJammin and Analisa, Duffield Caron Project One Trick Pony Kathy Lamar

The Pyramid Scheme Vault of Midnight presents: Villains Take Over: Dance Party!

River City Saloon Litt Up Saugatuck Brewing Ry Petermann Band Saugatuck Center for the Arts Touching Strangers Shakespeare’s Lower Level Stickyfut, ProConPro, Flops Ego, Day Lewis Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill The Todd Wolfe Band Val Du Lakes Bar & Grill Halloween Party wsg Rocket Fuel Haulers Water Street Gallery 2 Hot Annual Glass Exhibit Western Michigan University Sister Act Whiskey River Saloon Foolish Plezyer Williams Theatre Cymbeline

sunday

11.02

Bell’s Eccentric Cafe 6th Annual All Stouts Day Billy’s Revival ‘80s Night DeVos Place Straight No Chaser ‘Happy Hour Tour 2014’ Dog Story Theater The Rocky Horror Show Farmers Alley Theatre The Tiger Who Came to Tea Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors

GRAM Marks of Genius, Sunday Classical Concert Series Presents: Ensemble Montage GR Public Museum Real Pirates The Intersection Minnesota with Jackal and G. Jones KIA A Collector’s Eye, Double Take, Lasting Legacy, The Arts of Japan and China The Landing Sunday Night Funnies Muskegon Museum of Art West MI Symphony: Celebrating 75 Years, Remember and Rebuild, Stuart Klipper Old Dog Tavern 7th Son Blues Jam Salt of the Earth Wisaal Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill Sunday Matinee Williams Theatre Cymbeline

monday

11.03

Billy’s Bassbin DeVos Place Signature Chefs Auction Foundry Hall Chris Darby Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors GR Public Museum Real Pirates Kent District Library: Comstock Park Branch Stem Cells: What Are They? How Can They Help Cure Diseases?

MercuryHead Gallery Debra Van Deusen Pottery & Sculpture San Chez Bistro Spice Blend Class

Water Street Gallery 2 Hot Annual Glass Exhibit

tuesday

11.04

Billy’s Deep Down Tuesdays Bobarino’s at the B.O.B. Poker Nights DeVos Performance Hall Broadway GR Presents Once Founders Brewing Co. Open Mic Night Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors GRAM Marks of Genius GR Public Museum Real Pirates The Intersection Mike Stud wsg Clinton Sparks KIA A Collector’s Eye, Double Take, Lasting Legacy, The Arts of Japan and China Louie’s Trophy House Grill Comedy Night Hosted by Jen Dama MercuryHead Gallery Debra Van Deusen Pottery & Sculpture Muskegon Museum of Art Remember and Rebuild New Holland Brewing Beer Run Finale Old Dog Tavern Open Mic Night with Branden Mann, Tom Duffield The Pyramid Scheme Luke Winslow-King Thousand Oaks Country Club GR Heart Ball Water Street Gallery 2 Hot Annual Glass Exhibit

Best Bet: Electronic

REVUEWM.COM | November 2014 |

Scene | Sounds | Sights | Dining Schedule

Flosstradamus

The thing I love about electronic music is, no Flosstradamus wsg matter how old I get, the beats just stay the same age. Or GTA and Two-9 at least I do, in my heart, when I breathe them in – it’s The Intersection, enough of a force to make one even glibly quote Matthew Grand Rapids McConaughey for professional publication. But seriously, a Nov. 28, 8 p.m. dynamic, beat-friendly duo like Flosstradamus only appears $20 in advance, $25 at as frequently as the actual fulfillment of a Nostradamus the door prophesy. Hailing from Chicago and sporting a resume that sectionlive.com, includes South By Southwest, Coachella and Lollapalooza, (616) 451-8232 the Flosstradamus boys (that’s Josh “J2K” Young and Curt “Autobot” Cameruci to you, kandi kids) have been busy of late collaborating with the likes of De La Soul and Iggy Azalea. And let’s not even get into the recent appearances on “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon” and “Yo Gabba Gabba”: the head of every ‘90s kid reading this right now is in enough danger of explosion as is. Whether you’re still rocking beaded bracelets or cruising the high school like a mustached creep, The Intersection is where you’ll want to be on the Nov. 28. Reported

by Emma Kat Richardson

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Schedule wednesday

11.05

DeVos Performance Hall Broadway GR Presents Once DeVos Place YWCA Tribute Dog Story Theater The Rocky Horror Show Downtown Market Tasty Cuisine from Everyday Leftovers Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors GRAM Marks of Genius GR Public Museum Real Pirates KIA A Collector’s Eye, Double Take, Lasting Legacy, The Arts of Japan and China Louie’s Trophy House Grill Open Mic Night Hosted By Megan Dooley MercuryHead Gallery Debra Van Deusen Pottery & Sculpture The Music Factory Gears, Losing September, Know Lyfe & The Novella Muskegon Museum of Art Remember and Rebuild Old Dog Tavern DJ Dance Party Shakespeare’s Lower Level Absolutely Unofficial Umphrey’s McGee Pre-Party with Consider the Source Water Street Gallery 2 Hot Annual Glass Exhibit

thursday

Schedule Dining | Sights | Sounds | Scene

11.06

Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Dopapod: Umphrey’s McGee After Party Billy’s Campus Karaoke Wednesdays Bobrino’s Dueling Pianos Calvin College Hoogenboom Center Ingrid Michaelson wsg Chris Koza Czar’s 505 Karaoke Night with D-Mic DeVos Performance Hall Broadway GR Presents Once Dog Story Theater The Rocky Horror Show Downtown Market Healthy Holiday Cooking Dr. Grins Keith Alberstadt Founders Brewing Co. The Campanellis wsg Hollywood Makeout Trophy and Away Game Foundry Hall Appleseed Collective Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts TEDxMuskegon Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors GRAM Marks of Genius, An Evening with Adonna Khare

GR Public Museum Real Pirates H.O.M.E. at The B.O.B. Will Play For Food The Intersection Jeezy Kzoo County Expo Center West MI Harvest Cluster AKC Dog Show Kzoo Institute of Arts A Collector’s Eye, Double Take, Lasting Legacy, The Arts of Japan and China Kzoo State Theatre Umphrey’s McGee The Livery Canvas and Craft Beer MercuryHead Gallery Debra Van Deusen Pottery & Sculpture Miller Auditorium Michael Pollan Mulligan’s Pub American Arson, Another October, It’s A Secret Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors, Remember and Rebuild Old Dog Tavern Jenna Mammina and Rolf Sturm The Pyramid Scheme Frontier Ruckus Album Release Show St. Cecilia Music Center CMS of Lincoln Center Artistic Director’s Preview of ‘Classical Traditions’ Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill Rockabilly Rumble with Delilah DeWylde and the Lost Boys Water Street Gallery 2 Hot Annual Glass Exhibit

friday

11.07

Avenue for the Arts First Friday Gallery Hop Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Jubilee Riots Billy’s ‘90s Holla Back Bobrino’s Dueling Pianos C2C Gallery Bluebird Cancer Retreats Fundraiser & First Friday Gallery Walk Coopersville Farm Museum Country Line Dancing with Helen Walters Czar’s 505 Jamaica Me Crazy DeltaPlex Arena & Conference Center Viva! West MI DeVos Performance Hall Broadway GR Presents Once Dog Story Theater The Rocky Horror Show Dr. Grins Keith Alberstadt Forest Hills Fine Arts Center Kix Brooks Foundry Hall Tunebugs Four Winds Casino Max Allen Band Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors GRAM Marks of Genius, Learning to Draw with Adonna Khare GR Public Museum Real Pirates

48 | REVUEWM.COM | November 2014

Great Lakes Commonwealth of Letters Reading with George Dila and John Mauk The Intersection Granger Smith & Earl Dibbles Jr.; The Stache Presents Particle Kzoo County Expo Center West MI Harvest Cluster AKC Dog Show KIA A Collector’s Eye, Double Take, Lasting Legacy, The Arts of Japan and China, Art Hop LaFontsee Galleries Annual Fall Celebration Louie’s Trophy House Grill Bonehawk Album Release wsg Blue Snaggletooth, Fossil Eyes Louis Armstrong Theatre - GVSU Theatre at GV presents The Women of Lockerbie MercuryHead Gallery Debra Van Deusen Pottery & Sculpture The Music Factory Pink Droyd Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors, Remember and Rebuild Old Dog Tavern Jenna Mammina, The Real Fantastics, Jet Beats Papa Pete’s Knights of Mayhem, Young Faze Peter Martin Wege Theatre GVSU Opera Theatre presents ‘The Magic Flute’ The Pyramid Scheme Sallie Ford, Crooked Fingers Reader’s World Bookstore Jim Peterik Book Signing River City Saloon Trilogy Shakespeare’s Lower Level Country Night Spectrum Theater Open Door St. Cecilia Music Center GR Symphony Orchestra Great Eras The Classical Concert Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill RJ Nordlund & Friends wsg Bigfoot Buffalo UICA Looking Forward: The Artwork of Kirk Newman Water Street Gallery 2 Hot Annual Glass Exhibit Wealthy Theatre Mosaic Film Experience 2014

saturday

11.08

Aperitivo Virtue Cider & Alpine Cheeses Barnes & Noble Woodland Mall Author Signing With Jonathan Rand Barry Expo Center Barry County Antique Show Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Slim Gypsy Baggage Billy’s Disney After Dark Bobrino’s Dueling Pianos

DeltaPlex Arena & Conference Center BaCon: a Bacon and Beer Celebration DeVos Performance Hall Broadway GR Presents Once Dog Story Theater The Rocky Horror Show Dr. Grins Keith Alberstadt Farmers Alley Theatre The Tiger Who Came to Tea Fenn Valley Winemaker’s Dinners FireKeepers Casino Hotel Rob Schneider, Jon Lovitz and Tim Meadows: Veterans of SNL Founders Brewing Co. The SEVENth wsg Waldo The Action Figures, Sheefy McFly, DJ Omega Supreme Four Winds Casino Sushi Roll Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts Concert with Friends presented by Mona Lake Productions Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors GRAM Marks of Genius, GRAMStudio Drop-in Family Saturdays: Sweet Life Illustrations GR Public Museum Real Pirates The Intersection Whitechapel wsg Glass Cloud Withhold the Blood The Severed Process and I’m William Cutting; The Stache Presents Wanted: The Bon Jovi Tribute Band Kzoo County Expo Center West MI Harvest Cluster AKC Dog Show KIA A Collector’s Eye, Double Take, Lasting Legacy, The Arts of Japan and China Ladies Literary Club David Bazan, Passenger String Quartet LaFontsee Galleries Annual Fall Celebration The Livery Trout Steak Revival Louie’s Trophy House Grill Life In Vacuum, Guppy Mold, The Freight Bandits Louis Armstrong Theatre - GVSU Theatre at GV presents The Women of Lockerbie Master Arts Theatre Contents Under Pressure MercuryHead Gallery Debra Van Deusen Pottery & Sculpture Millennium Park Mustache Dache 5k Miller Auditorium Last Comic Standing Live Mulligan’s Pub Distorted Walls, Remnants, Red Legs The Music Factory Faster Pussycat Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors, Remember and Rebuild Old Dog Tavern BanJammin and Analisa, Duffield Caron Project, WIDRAMA One Trick Pony The Trace

Papa Pete’s Covert Peter Martin Wege Theatre GVSU Opera Theatre presents ‘The Magic Flute’ The Pyramid Scheme SEXT FARM: A tribute to Spinal Tap River City Saloon Whiplash Alley Saugatuck Brewing Reverent Monk Release Party, Formerly Hip Shakespeare’s Lower Level Metal Night with Mine Enemies Fall, Blackgate Fragments Spectrum Theater Open Door St. Cecilia Music Center Piano Teachers’ Forum of GR SonataSonatina Festival Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill Rusty Wright Band UICA Looking Forward: The Artwork of Kirk Newman Wealthy Theater Annex Harpeth Rising Wealthy Theatre Mosaic Film Experience 2014

sunday

11.09

Billy’s Revival ‘80s Dance DeVos Performance Hall Broadway GR Presents Once Dog Story Theater The Rocky Horror Show Farmers Alley Theatre The Tiger Who Came to Tea Founders Brewing Co. Caroline Smith Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors GRAM Marks of Genius, GRAM Sunday Classical Concert Series GR Public Museum Real Pirates Kzoo County Expo Center West MI Harvest Cluster AKC Dog Show KIA A Collector’s Eye, Double Take, Lasting Legacy, The Arts of Japan and China Kzoo Nature Center Artist Reception: Bill Krasean The Landing Sunday Night Funnies The Livery Jenna Mammina and Rolf Sturm Louis Armstrong Theatre - GVSU Theatre at GV presents The Women of Lockerbie Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors, Remember and Rebuild New Holland Brewing Fairbanks Society Appreciation Party Old Dog Tavern Old Time Jam, Gator Boys, Carter Hulsey and Brett Newski Peter Martin Wege Theatre GVSU Opera Theatre presents ‘The Magic Flute’

The Riviera Theatre Tommy Dorsey Orchestra Salt of the Earth Mark Stuart Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill Shitty Nights, Broth, Priest Rape, The Lippies UICA Looking Forward: The Artwork of Kirk Newman

monday

11.10

Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Square Dance Kalamzaoo! Larry Unger & Julie Metcaff, Will Mentor Billy’s Bassbin Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors GR Public Museum Real Pirates Kzoo Public Library Slam Poetry Session Kent District Library Krause Memorial Branch Chocolate Making with Polly Van Eschen Kent District Library: Comstock Park branch Martin Lowenberg: My Experiences as a Youngster in the Holocaust Ladies Literary Club An Evening with Davy Rothbart LaFontsee Galleries Annual Fall Celebration The Pyramid Scheme Weedeater, Full Of Hell, Lazer/Wulf, Traitor Water Street Gallery 2 Hot Annual Glass Exhibit

tuesday

11.11

Billy’s Deep Down Tuesdays Bobarino’s at the B.O.B. Poker Nights Eve at the B.O.B. Burton and W3 Fashion Show & Party Frederik Meijer Gardens Introduction to Microgreens Workshop, Emerging Sculptors GRAM Marks of Genius GR Public Museum Real Pirates The Intersection Carcass wsg Macabre Exhumed Noisem; The Stache Presents Chris Webby KIA ARTbreak : Toulouse-Lautrec and Montmartre, A Collector’s Eye, Double Take, Lasting Legacy, The Arts of Japan and China LaFontsee Galleries Annual Fall Celebration MercuryHead Gallery Debra Van Deusen Pottery & Sculpture Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors

Old Dog Tavern Tom Duffield Open Mic with Branden Mann The Pyramid Scheme TTNG, Emma Ruth Rundle, Mylets San Chez Bistro Cocktail Creations UICA Looking Forward: The Artwork of Kirk Newman Water Street Gallery 2 Hot Annual Glass Exhibit Wealthy Theatre Meanwhile Movie: Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory

wednesday

11.12

Billy’s Campus Karaoke Bobrino’s Dueling Pianos Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors GRAM Marks of Genius GR Public Museum Real Pirates The Intersection Parmalee wsg Gunnar and The Grizzly Boys Kzoo Public Library GLAMA Acoustic Slow Jam Kent District Library - East GR Branch Write Michigan Short Story Workshop: It Lives! Revision and Re-Vision KIA Lecture: Michigan Design: International Context, A Collector’s Eye, Double Take, Lasting Legacy, The Arts of Japan and China LaFontsee Galleries Annual Fall Celebration

Louie’s Trophy House Grill Deerhoof, Priests, White Reaper MercuryHead Gallery Debra Van Deusen Pottery & Sculpture Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors Old Dog Tavern DJ Dance Party Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill Chuck Prophet and the Mission Express wsg John Murry UICA Looking Forward: The Artwork of Kirk Newman Water Street Gallery 2 Hot Annual Glass Exhibit Wealthy Theatre My Brightest Diamond wsg Dosh & Ghostband

thursday

11.13

Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Trout Steak Revival wsg The Appleseed Collective Billy’s ‘90s Holla Back Bobrino’s Dueling Pianos Czar’s 505 Karaoke Night with D-Mic Downtown Market Fall Soups From Around the World Dr. Grins Comedy Club Shane Mauss Founders Brewing Co. The Pimps of Joytime wsg Shotgun Soul Foundry Hall Speakers Open Mic Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors GRAM Marks of Genius

GR Public Museum Real Pirates, 6th Annual Jay and Betty Van Andel Legacy Awards Gala H.O.M.E. at The B.O.B. Will Play For Food Howmet Playhouse Pilot Error The Intersection Bone Thugs N Harmony wsg AD Almost Kings Skinny Sir Trigga Lua Proc; The Stache Presents Kublai Khan wsg Barrier Gift Giver Anchors Calling Kzoo Public Library Meet the Author: Todd Parr KIA Drawing in the Galleries, A Collector’s Eye, Double Take, Lasting Legacy, The Arts of Japan and China Knickerbocker Theatre Guest Artist: Paul Galbraith LaFontsee Galleries Annual Fall Celebration Louis Armstrong Theatre - GVSU Theatre at GV presents The Women of Lockerbie LowellArts! LowellArts! Holiday Market MercuryHead Gallery Debra Van Deusen Pottery & Sculpture Mulligan’s Pub Typesetter, ASTIPAI, Birdlord, Bong Mountain Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors New Holland Production Campus Brewers’ Series: Dragon Milk Cellar Tour One Trick Pony Oscar Bittinger & Josh Rose The Pyramid Scheme Mr. Gnome, Young Tongue

Shakespeare’s Lower Level Comedy Open Mic UICA Looking Forward: The Artwork of Kirk Newman Water Street Gallery 2 Hot Annual Glass Exhibit

friday

11.14

The B.O.B Mane Event: An Outrageous Hair Design Battle & Showcase Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Steppin’ In It Bethlehem Lutheran Sanctuary MAJIC Concert: An Dro Billy’s Mike Milligan, Steam Shovel Binda Performing Arts Center Sampled Shakespeare Bobrino’s Dueling Pianos Coopersville Farm Museum Country Line Dancing with Helen Walters DeVos Performance Hall GR Symphony Presents Singing in the Rain Dr. Grins Shane Mauss Foundry Hall Tunebugs Four Winds Casino Randy Brock Group Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts The Frauenthal Follies Variety Show Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors GRAM Marks of Genius GR Civic Theatre Mary Poppins

GR Public Museum Real Pirates, Organ Concert: The Black Pirate The Intersection David Nail KIA A Collector’s Eye, Double Take, Lasting Legacy Kzoo State Theatre Australia’s Thunder From Down Under LaFontsee Galleries Annual Fall Celebration Louie’s Trophy House Grill ‘In The Round’ with Mechele Peters, Matthew Borr, Ian Gorman and Chris Schlueder Louis Armstrong Theatre - GVSU The Women of Lockerbie LowellArts! LowellArts! Holiday Market MercuryHead Gallery Debra Van Deusen Pottery & Sculpture Mulligan’s Pub Faultline, The Lippies, Anthony Hansen The Music Factory Days Of The New, Ignoring The Echoes Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors Old Dog Tavern Hired Hands, Branden Mann and the Reprimand Parish Theatre Kzoo Civic Theatre Presents Grand Ole Music The Pyramid Scheme Natural Child River City Saloon In the Red The Riviera Theatre The Stray Birds Shakespeare’s Lower Level Diarrhea Planet, By Jr., Shortlife UICA Looking Forward: The Artwork of Kirk Newman Water Street Gallery 2 Hot Annual Glass Exhibit

Wealthy Theatre Pop Scholars: Improv Comedy Western Michigan University Theatre HAIR

saturday

11.15

Bell’s Eccentric Cafe The Corn Fed Girls Billy’s Hip Pocket Binda Performing Arts Center Sampled Shakespeare Bobrino’s Dueling Pianos DeltaPlex Arena & Conference Center Deer Hunters Widow Craft and Vendor Show DeVos Performance Hall GR Symphony Presents Singing in the Rain Dr. Grins Shane Mauss FireKeepers Casino Tony Bennett wsg Antonia Bennett Founders Brewing Co. Survival Knife wsg Hungry Ghost Pink Avalanche Four Winds Casino HIFI Superstar Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts An Innocent Band: A Tribute to Billy Joel Frederik Meijer Gardens Portrait Photography, Emerging Sculptors GRAM Marks of Genius, GRAMStudio Drop-in Family Saturdays: Sweet Life Illustrations GR Civic Theatre Mary Poppins GR Public Museum Real Pirates

Best Bet: Pop

REVUEWM.COM | November 2014 |

Scene | Sounds | Sights | Dining Schedule

At first glance, Ingrid Michaelson bears Ingrid Michaelson wsg a striking resemblance to a 30-something, Chris Koza chilled-out-but poignant version of the ever-troubled Hoogenboom Center, Calvin Amanda Bynes. But thankfully, the similarities end College, Grand Rapids there (although we wouldn’t necessarily mind seeing Nov. 6, 8 p.m. our girl Ingrid rock a purple wig). In all 13 tracks of $30 public, $15 for Calvin her latest album, Human Again, Michaelson sings students with ID passionately about loves lost and found, striking calvin.edu/sao, (616) 526-6282 emotional chords as often as she plucks out delicious melodic ones on guitar and piano. Even when she’s licking a wound over a torn-apart relationship, Michaelson’s gift lies in her uncanny ability to call upon her dapper Swedish heritage – IKEA hospitality, anyone? – and charm the pants off absolutely everybody within earshot. There’s a reason why Michaelson’s work has caught the attention of suits at Old Navy and the producers of “Grey’s Anatomy”; her music has been popular and far-reaching enough to have resulted in five albums, countless singles and an almost never-ending tour schedule. Put a little sway into your Thursday with one hot Michaelson minute. Reported by Emma Kat Richardson

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Schedule

Suzanne Vega

Schedule Dining | Sights | Sounds | Scene

Best Bet: Folk Let’s just be real Suzanne Vega honest here: I love Saugatuck Center Suzanne Vega, you love for the Arts, Suzanne Vega, every Revue Saugatuck minion who has ever Nov. 22, 8 p.m. minioned loves Suzanne $36.50 Vega (even though some sc4a.org, of them were born in the (269) 857-2399 ‘90s, mercy). She’s more than just the artist who drew attention to the tragedy of child abuse. An award winning, indie rock iconoclast with more than 30 years in the industry, Vega is a force to be reckoned with, perhaps even more now than ever. This past year, she released her first album in almost a decade (the fancifully titled Tales from the Realm of the Queen of Penacles) and embarked on an ambitious supporting tour across the country. Sure, there are plenty of classics to be had on this live round, but Vega’s newer efforts are worth a fair listen, too. Trust us: you’re not going to want to luka the other way when Suzanne Vega rolls into town. Reported by Emma Kat Richardson

50 | REVUEWM.COM | November 2014

Howard Chenery Auditorium Béla Fleck The Intersection Mega ‘80s Kzoo County Expo Center Kzoo Reptile & Exotic Animal Show KIA A Collector’s Eye, Double Take, Lasting Legacy, How to Return?

Contemporary Chinese Photography Kzoo State Theatre The Temptations Kellogg Arena Shipshewana on the Road LaFontsee Galleries Annual Fall Celebration Little River Casino Resort Thunder From Down Under Louie’s Trophy House Grill The Electric Jug Band, Funky Marbles Louis Armstrong Theatre - GVSU Theatre at GV presents The Women of Lockerbie LowellArts! Holiday Market MercuryHead Gallery Debra Van Deusen Pottery & Sculpture Mulligan’s Pub Flood In The Desert, Blackgate Entransient Music Factory Through The Ashes Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors Old Dog Tavern BanJammin and Analisa, Duffield Caron Project ,Tip Rail Ramblers wsg Moxieville One Trick Pony Lazy Blue Tunas Parish Theatre Kzoo Civic Theatre Presents Grand Ole Music The Pointe Kzoo Dance The Pyramid Scheme The Rockit King Album Release Show wsg Deadwood Stone and Jim Shaneberger River City Saloon In the Red Saugatuck Brewing The Schrock Brothers Saugatuck Center for the Arts Real to Reel: Life Itself Shakespeare’s Lower Level Crazy ‘80s Party with Starfarm Tip Top Deluxe Sailor Kicks, Hex Bombs, Squared Off and Flex.o UICA Looking Forward: The Artwork of Kirk Newman; Buying Friends: The Kortman Collection Wealthy Theatre Ebony Road Player Workshops, The No Chill Zone Comedy Showcase Western Michigan University Theatre HAIR

sunday

11.16

Billy’s Revival ‘80s Dance Night Binda Performing Arts Center Sampled Shakespeare

DeVos Performance Hall GR Symphony Presents Singing in the Rain Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors GRAM Marks of Genius, Giuseppe Lupis: Le Tombeau de Piano 2.0 GR Civic Theatre Mary Poppins GR Public Museum Real Pirates Great Lakes Commonwealth of Letters Writing Workshop with Philip Sterling The Intersection Betraying The Martyrs wsg Reflections Invent Animate KIA A Collector’s Eye, Double Take, Lasting Legacy, How to Return?

Contemporary Chinese Photography Kellogg Arena Shipshewana on the Road The Landing Sunday Night Funnies The Livery Chris Forsyth & The Solar Motel Band wsg The Chuck Jagers Louis Armstrong Theatre - GVSU Theatre at GV presents The Women of Lockerbie Miller Auditorium The Lettermen Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors Old Dog Tavern Jack Grelle & Ryan Koenig, Cats in the Hat Blues Jam Parish Theatre Kzoo Civic Theatre Presents Grand Ole Music Salt of the Earth Anne Hills and Jim Hurst Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill Lectralux, The Faultline, Tonia Bug UICA Looking Forward: The Artwork of Kirk Newman; Buying Friends: The Kortman Collection Western Michigan University Theatre HAIR

monday

11.17

Billy’s Bassbin Bobarino’s at the B.O.B. West MI Jazz Society Presents Monday Night Jazz with Cooper Hay and VanLente Group Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors GR Public Museum Real Pirates Kent District Library: Alpine Township Branch Beekeeping: Let’s Get Started!

LaFontsee Galleries Annual Fall Celebration The Parish Theatre Grand Ole Music Water Street Gallery 2 Hot Annual Glass Exhibit

tuesday

11.18

Billy’s Deep Down Tuesdays Bobarino’s at the B.O.B. Poker Nights Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors GRAM Marks of Genius GR Public Museum Real Pirates KIA ARTbreak : Ladislav Hanka and Mary Whalen Artist Talk, A Collector’s Eye, Double Take, Lasting Legacy, How to Return?

Contemporary Chinese Photography LaFontsee Galleries Annual Fall Celebration Louie’s Trophy House Grill Comedy Night Hosted by Jen Dama LowellArts! LowellArts! Holiday Market MercuryHead Gallery Debra Van Deusen Pottery & Sculpture Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors Old Dog Tavern Tom Duffield, Open Mic with Branden Mann SpeakEZ Lounge MartiniMOTH Live Storytelling at SpeakEZ Lounge UICA Looking Forward: The Artwork of Kirk Newman; Buying Friends: The Kortman Collection Van Andel Arena Sesame Street Live: Let’s Dance!

Water Street Gallery 2 Hot Annual Glass Exhibit Wealthy Theatre Telling a Good Story; Meanwhile Movie: Best in Show

wednesday

11.19

Aquinas College Chocolate Kisses: Poetry Night Billy’s Campus Karaoke Bobrino’s Dueling Pianos Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors GRAM Marks of Genius GR Civic Theatre Mary Poppins GR Public Museum Real Pirates The Intersection The Stache Presents Mimosa KIA A Collector’s Eye, Double Take, Lasting Legacy, How to Return?

Contemporary Chinese Photography Kzoo Public Library An Dro LaFontsee Galleries Annual Fall Celebration Louie’s Trophy House Grill Music Open Mic Night Hosted By Megan Dooley

LowellArts! LowellArts! Holiday Market MercuryHead Gallery Debra Van Deusen Pottery & Sculpture Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors Old Dog Tavern DJ Dance Party The Parish Theatre Grand Ole Music UICA Looking Forward: The Artwork of Kirk Newman; Buying Friends: The Kortman Collection Van Andel Arena Sesame Street Live: Let’s Dance!

Water Street Gallery 2 Hot Annual Glass Exhibit

thursday

11.20

The B.O.B Ashley Daneman Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Sarah Borges wsg Girls Guns Glory Billy’s 90’s Holla Back Bobrino’s Dueling Pianos Czar’s 505 Karaoke Night with D-Mic DeVos Place GR International Wine Beer and Food Festival Dr. Grins Roy Wood Jr. Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors GRAM Marks of Genius GR Civic Theatre Mary Poppins GR Public Museum Real Pirates H.O.M.E. at The B.O.B. Will Play For Food The Intersection Arch Enemy wsg Kreator Huntress and Starkill KIA Art Needs a Push: Short History of the KIA, A Collector’s Eye, Double Take, Lasting Legacy, How to Return? Contemporary Chinese Photography Kzoo Public Library Cartooning with Kenjji LaFontsee Galleries Annual Fall Celebration LowellArts! LowellArts! Holiday Market MercuryHead Gallery Debra Van Deusen Pottery & Sculpture Mulligan’s Pub Oceans Over Earth, EVAC Denied, Pass of Aggresion The Music Factory Screaming For Silence Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors New Holland Brewing Flips & Nogs Class The Pyramid Scheme Ultimate Painting The Riviera Theatre Warren Miller’s No Turning Back

REVUEWM.COM | November 2014 |

51

Schedule Shakespeare’s Lower Level Drag Show feat. Jade Jolie, Monique Madison, Yolanda del Fierce, Chanel Hunter, Laura Loveless, Una Legend St. Cecilia Music Center Joshua Redman Trio - Spectacular Jazz UICA Looking Forward: The Artwork of Kirk Newman; Buying Friends: The Kortman Collection Water Street Gallery 2 Hot Annual Glass Exhibit Western Michigan University Theatre HAIR

friday

11.21

Schedule Dining | Sights | Sounds | Scene

Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Blue Dirt Band Billy’s Rootstand Binda Performing Arts Center Sampled Shakespeare Bobrino’s Dueling Pianos DeltaPlex Arena & Conference Center GR Comic-Con DeVos Performance Hall GR Symphony Presents: Love and Life

DeVos Place GR International Wine Beer and Food Festival Downtown Grand Haven Light Night Downtown Market Thanksgiving Remix Dr. Grins Comedy Club Roy Wood Jr. Foundry Hall Tunebugs Four Winds Casino Daughtry, One Night Band Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts Muskegon Civic Theatre Presents A Christmas Story; West MI Symphony presents Carmina Burana: Sacred and Profane Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors GRAM Marks of Genius GR Civic Theatre Mary Poppins GR Public Museum Real Pirates The Intersection Atmosphere wsg Prof Dem Atlas DJ Fundo KIA A Collector’s Eye, Double Take, Lasting Legacy, How to Return?

Contemporary Chinese Photography Kzoo State Theatre Warren Miller’s No Turning Back LaFontsee Galleries Annual Fall Celebration

52 | REVUEWM.COM | November 2014

Little River Casino Resort Josh Turner Louie’s Trophy House Grill Electro Pop Therapy Dance Party LowellArts! LowellArts! Holiday Market Master Arts Theatre Sanders Family Christmas MercuryHead Gallery Debra Van Deusen Pottery & Sculpture Mulligan’s Pub Brother Adams, Emma Loo and Sam Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors Old Dog Tavern Full Frontal Cortez wsg Jesse Williams Papa Pete’s Citizun Parish Theatre Kzoo Civic Theatre Presents Grand Ole Music The Park Theatre ‘80s Night with Trixie Tang and HairMania River City Saloon OTC UICA Looking Forward: The Artwork of Kirk Newman; Buying Friends: The Kortman Collection Water Street Gallery 2 Hot Annual Glass Exhibit Western Michigan University Theatre HAIR

saturday

11.22

Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Pert Near Sandstone Binda Performing Arts Center Sampled Shakespeare Bobrino’s Dueling Pianos DeltaPlex Arena & Conference Center GR Comic-Con DeVos Performance Hall Family Matinee: The Firebird; GR Symphony Presents: Love and Life DeVos Place GR International Wine Beer and Food Festival Dr. Grins Comedy Club Roy Wood Jr. Four Winds Casino One Hot Mess Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts Muskegon Civic Theatre Presents A Christmas Story Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors GRAM Marks of Genius GR Civic Theatre Mary Poppins GR Public Museum Real Pirates The Intersection Huey Mack wsg Yonas Nate Paulson; Wayland wsg

Devin and The Dead Frets Kill All Control Stone Thrown The After Effect KIA A Collector’s Eye, Double Take, Lasting Legacy, How to Return?

Contemporary Chinese Photography Kzoo State Theatre Warren Miller’s No Turning Back LaFontsee Galleries Annual Fall Celebration Louie’s Trophy House Grill Marvel vs. DC Costume Dance Party LowellArts! LowellArts! Holiday Market Master Arts Theatre Sanders Family Christmas MercuryHead Gallery Debra Van Deusen Pottery & Sculpture Mulligan’s Pub Trollhammer, Imperial Sun Crusher, Nuhgjahre The Music Factory Tantric wsg Blackened Earth Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors Old Dog Tavern BenJammin and Analisa Duffield Caron Project Dumela Project One Trick Pony Troll for Trout Papa Pete’s Fried Egg Nebula

Parish Theatre Kzoo Civic Theatre Presents Grand Ole Music River City Saloon OTC Saugatuck Brewing Drew Behringer Saugatuck Center for the Arts Suzanne Vega UICA Looking Forward: The Artwork of Kirk Newman; Buying Friends: The Kortman Collection Western Michigan University Theatre HAIR

sunday

11.23

Billy’s Revival 80s Dance Night Binda Performing Arts Center Sampled Shakespeare DeltaPlex Arena & Conference Center GR Comic-Con DeVos Performance Hall TOBYMAC with Matt Maher and special guest Ryan Stevenson Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts Muskegon Civic Theatre Presents A Christmas Story

Scene | Sounds | Sights | Dining Schedule

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REVUEWM.COM | November 2014 |

Schedule UICA Looking Forward: The Artwork of Kirk Newman; Buying Friends: The Kortman Collection Wealthy Theatre GR Comic-Con presents Coraline Wellspring Theater Gilmore Rising Stars: Jerry Leonide (piano) Western Michigan University Theatre HAIR

monday

11.24

Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Yoga in the Back Room!

Billy’s Bassbin Butch’s Dry Dock Journeymen Dinner Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors GR Public Museum Real Pirates Knickerbocker Theatre Student Dance Showcase LaFontsee Galleries Annual Fall Celebration Schuler Books 28th Street Chris Van Allsburg Appearance & Book Signing (EGRPL)

Schedule Dining | Sights | Sounds | Scene

Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors GRAM Marks of Genius, ESME (Eclectic String Music Ensemble): Cover to Cover GR Civic Theatre Mary Poppins GR Public Museum Real Pirates The Intersection GWAR wsg Corrosion of Conformity The Meatmen and American Sharks KIA A Collector’s Eye, Double Take, Lasting Legacy, How to Return?

Contemporary Chinese Photography Kent District Library Kentwood Branch Fall into Poetry Sunday Series: GF Korreck and Todd Kanenko The Landing Sunday Night Funnies Master Arts Theatre Sanders Family Christmas The Music Factory Jackyl Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors Old Dog Tavern Crossroads Blues Jam The Pyramid Scheme The World is a Beautiful Place and I am No Longer Afraid to Die, The Hotelier, Rozwell Kid, Posture & the Grizzly Quinn and Tuite’s Brendan Loughrey Salt of the Earth Heather Styka and Jen Sygit

54 | REVUEWM.COM | November 2014

Water Street Gallery 2 Hot Annual Glass Exhibit Wealthy Theatre FCP Editing Certification Class

tuesday

11.25

Billy’s Deep Down Tuesdays Bobarino’s at the B.O.B. Poker Nights Downtown Market Native American Cuisine Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors, Holiday Exhibition GRAM Marks of Genius GR Public Museum Real Pirates KIA ARTbreak : Street Photography with George Kuttner, A Collector’s Eye, Double Take, Lasting Legacy, How to Return? Contemporary Chinese Photography Knickerbocker Theatre Student Dance Showcase LaFontsee Galleries Annual Fall Celebration LowellArts! LowellArts! Holiday Market

MercuryHead Gallery Debra Van Deusen Pottery & Sculpture Miller Auditorium Elf the Musical Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors Old Dog Tavern Tom Duffield Open Mic with Branden Mann Schuler Books 28th Street Local Author Night UICA Looking Forward: The Artwork of Kirk Newman; Buying Friends: The Kortman Collection Water Street Gallery 2 Hot Annual Glass Exhibit Wealthy Theatre Meanwhile Movie: Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure

wednesday

11.26

Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Beers With Beards Celebration Billy’s Campus Karaoke Bobrino’s Dueling Pianos Foundry Hall Open Mic hosted by Paul Hogan Four Winds Casino Gina Glocksen Band

Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors, Holiday Exhibition GRAM Marks of Genius GR Civic Theatre Mary Poppins GR Public Museum Real Pirates The Intersection Battlecross wsg Wretches War of Ages Blackgate and Templar’s Verdict KIA A Collector’s Eye, Double Take, Lasting Legacy, How to Return?

Contemporary Chinese Photography LaFontsee Galleries Annual Fall Celebration Louie’s Trophy House Grill Music Open Mic Night Hosted By Megan Dooley LowellArts! LowellArts! Holiday Market MercuryHead Gallery Debra Van Deusen Pottery & Sculpture Miller Auditorium Elf the Musical Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors Old Dog Tavern DJ Dance Party The Pyramid Scheme Rap for a Stack River City Saloon Trixy Trang Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill American Heartbreakers wsg Hard Promises

UICA Looking Forward: The Artwork of Kirk Newman; Buying Friends: The Kortman Collection Water Street Gallery 2 Hot Annual Glass Exhibit

thursday

11.27

Billy’s Starfarm Bobrino’s Dueling Pianos GR Civic Theatre Mary Poppins at the Civic Theater Shakespeare’s Lower Level Comedy Open Mic The Pyramid Scheme Retro D’Luxe Thanksgiving

friday

11.28

Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Jay Gavan Album Release wsg Guitar Up, The Long Players Bobrino’s Dueling Pianos

Scene | Sounds | Sights | Dining Schedule

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REVUEWM.COM | November 2014 |

Schedule Coopersville Farm Museum Country Line Dancing with Helen Walters DeVos Performance Hall Broadway GR Presents: Elf the Musical Dr. Grins Comedy Club Mike Armstrong Foundry Hall Tunebugs Four Winds Casino Brena Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts Muskegon Civic Theatre Presents A Christmas Story; Sister’s Christmas Catechism Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors, Holiday Exhibition GRAM Marks of Genius, ReEnvisioning The Nutcracker GR Civic Theatre Mary Poppins GR Public Museum Real Pirates The Intersection Flosstradamus wsg GTA and Two-9; The Stache Presents Blood on the Dance Floor wsg Whitney Peyton Sweet Ascent and Epidemic Kzoo Civic Theatre Shrek the Musical KIA A Collector’s Eye, Double Take, Lasting Legacy, How to Return?

Contemporary Chinese Photography Kzoo State Theatre Greensky Bluegrass

LaFontsee Galleries Annual Fall Celebration Louie’s Trophy House Grill Ed Genisis Big Yak G LowellArts! LowellArts! Holiday Market Master Arts Theatre Sanders Family Christmas MercuryHead Gallery Debra Van Deusen Pottery & Sculpture The Music Factory Sponge Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors Papa Pete’s The Whistle Stop Revue Parish Theatre Kzoo Civic Theatre Presents Shrek The Musical The Pyramid Scheme The Original Back to the 90s Party!

River City Saloon Fled Five St. Cecilia Music Center CARE Ballet T’Was The Night Before Christmas Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill The Twistin Tarantulas wsg The Truckstop Cobras UICA Looking Forward: The Artwork of Kirk Newman; Buying Friends: The Kortman Collection Water Street Gallery 2 Hot Annual Glass Exhibit

saturday

11.29

Ambrosia Theater The Sideshow Freak Flick Film Fest Bell’s Eccentric Cafe The Diggity Billy’s Blue Soul Express Bobrino’s Dueling Pianos DeVos Performance Hall Broadway GR Presents: Elf the Musical Dr. Grins Mike Armstrong Founders Brewing Co. Ghost Heart wsg Vox Vidorra Backyard Songbook Four Winds Casino Lava Rock Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts Warren Miller’s No Turning Back Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors, Holiday Exhibition GRAM Marks of Genius, GRAMStudio Drop-in Family Saturdays: Sweet Life Illustrations GR Civic Theatre Mary Poppins GR Public Museum Real Pirates The Intersection Mega ‘80s Kzoo Civic Theatre Shrek the Musical

Made in Germany • Tradition seit 1774

Kzoo County Fair Grounds Kzoo Circus Maximus Toy Show KIA A Collector’s Eye, Double Take, Lasting Legacy, How to Return?

Contemporary Chinese Photography LaFontsee Galleries Annual Fall Celebration Louie’s Trophy House Grill Killer Bee Comedy Show and Drunken Spelling Bee LowellArts! LowellArts! Holiday Market Master Arts Theatre Sanders Family Christmas MercuryHead Gallery Debra Van Deusen Pottery & Sculpture Miller Auditorium Mannheim Steamroller Christmas Mulligan’s Pub SkinJacket, Society Kills, Small Town Harlot Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors New Holland Brewing Third Annual Turkey Trot Old Dog Tavern BanJammin and Analisa Duffield Caron Project One Trick Pony Thirsty Perch Blues Band Parish Theatre Kzoo Civic Theatre Presents Shrek The Musical

The Pyramid Scheme Complete VII Dance Party River City Saloon Thundering Heart Saugatuck Brewing Double Nickel String Band Shakespeare’s Lower Level Gay Night St. Cecilia Music Center CARE Ballet T’Was The Night Before Christmas UICA Looking Forward: The Artwork of Kirk Newman; Buying Friends: The Kortman Collection

sunday

11.30

Ambrosia Theater The Sideshow Freak Flick Film Fest Billy’s Revival ‘80s Dance Night DeVos Performance Hall Broadway GR Presents Elf the Musical Frederik Meijer Gardens Emerging Sculptors, Holiday Exhibition GRAM Marks of Genius, Sunday Classical Concert Series Presents: Clarin-Eclectic

JOSHUA REDMAN TRIO

GR Civic Theatre Mary Poppins GR Public Museum Real Pirates Kzoo Civic Theatre Shrek the Musical Kzoo Institute of Arts A Collector’s Eye, Double Take, Lasting Legacy, How to Return? Contemporary Chinese Photography The Landing Sunday Night Funnies Master Arts Theatre Sanders Family Christmas Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors Old Dog Tavern Blues Jam Parish Theatre Kzoo Civic Theatre Presents Shrek The Musical The Pyramid Scheme The Click: Broken Lens Face Off Salt of the Earth The Muteflutes Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill Chugger Filthy Injektor Nate Maynard UICA Looking Forward: The Artwork of Kirk Newman; Buying Friends: The Kortman Collection n

For more events and info, check out our calendar at revueWm.com.

St. Cecilia Music Center PRESENTS

“When the conversation ensues about who is carrying on the great tradition of jazz musicianship today…if Joshua Redman’s name does not come up, the conversation is not worth having.” - JamBase

Schedule Dining | Sights | Sounds | Scene

THE SPECTACULAR JAZZ SERIES

Coming Next Month:

Holiday Gift Guide Entertaining ideas for every personality

56 | REVUEWM.COM | November 2014

NOVEMBER 20, 2014 1411 Robinson Road Grand Rapids, MI (616) 451-4732 Repairs Available

Stay True scmc-online.org 616.459.2224

REVUEWM.COM | November 2014 |

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58 | REVUEWM.COM | November 2014

Last Call

by Rei Robinson

The Appleshine

Flat Lander’s Barstillery, Grand Rapids The apple, it’s said, falls not far from the tree. Whether it be opined for shortness of said trees or the gravitational delinquency of apples, one oughta, in autumn, focus first on the fall.

I found myself a bit of respite from the increasingly decreasing temperature of the season at Flat Lander’s Barstillery, an outpost with a multifaceted mode. Its ambiance rings a bell that spells a scent of what the wild west would look like if it had existed in the distant future.

While others, I know, have remarked in high spirits on the merit of the viand, I was solely in the spirit for spirits. And I happened to happen upon one that shone more warmly than a sunset in the deep of fall.

The Appleshine.

This audacious pomaceous will blow your breeze and cool your trees, appealing to the appetite and an appellation appropriate, as the round warmth of its body is accented with a tartness hinted, like the autumnal light shone abreast the crisp skin of a freshly picked apple.

I believe it was Carl Sagan who said, “If you want to make an apple pie from scratch, you must first create the universe. If you want to make an apple pie amazing, add whiskey.”

But then again, I have been drinking.

WHAT, PRAY TELL, EVEN IS THE APPLESHINE? Like most futuristic mountain folk, the barkeep was pretty tightlipped as to the exact making of the Appleshine, but I was able to glean that it is: Flat Lander’s White Whisky, cut with: Apple juice made with Michigan-grown apples Bitters Cinnamon shavings, fresh from the stick

Photo: Kelsey Wahowiak