The Entertainer! - Jan. 2016 by Times Media Group

PHX METRO » JANUARY 2016

The Band

PERRY

GET AWAY! NEW TRAVEL SECTION IS ON PAGE 33

GRAMMER CLASS

GRAMMER & MELLENCAMP TEAM UP FOR THE COLLEGE CHAMPIONSHIP CONCERT SERIES

STYX

JIM NORTON

TRACE ADKINS

Sunday, January 17

Saturday, January 23

Friday, February 12

FRANK CALIENDO

THE TUBES

Saturday, February 13

Saturday, February 20

BODEANS

LEGENDS IN CONCERT

TESLA

Saturday, March 12

Wednesday-Sunday, March 16-20

Friday, March 25

DAVID CROSBY Saturday, March 26

STEVE HACKETT

FROM ACOLYTE TO WOLFLIGHT PLUS GENESIS CLASSICS & MORE

JOE SATRIANI

FROM SURFING TO SHOCKWAVE CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF MIND BENDING GUITAR DAREDEVILRY

Saturday, March 5

KATHLEEN MADIGAN

Saturday, April 2

Saturday, April 9

For tickets call the box office at

480.850.7734 or visit ticketmaster.com 101 & Talking Stick Way • Scottsdale • talkingstickresort.com Locally owned and caringly operated by the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community.

“THE GREATEST OF THE GREAT! IT MUST BE EXPERIENCED!” — Chrinstine Walevska, Goddess of Cello, watched Shen Yun 4 times

here was a time when the world was full of magic and splendor, and all on Earth existed in harmony with Heaven. You could see it in the arts, feel it in the air, and hear it in the beat of a drum. This was a land of heroes and sages, dragons and phoenixes, emperors and immortals. Known today as China, this place was once called “the Land of the Divine.” What if you could journey back and visit this lost paradise?

Shen Yun brings the profound spirit of this lost civilization to life on stage with unrivaled artistic mastery. Every dance movement, every musical note, makes this a stunning visual and emotional experience you won’t find anywhere else. Banned in communist China today, the non-profit Shen Yun is dedicated to reviving 5,000 years of civilization. Experience the Arts connecting Heaven & Earth! Experience Shen Yun!

“ Mind-blowing! Go back and see six times!” —Richard Connema, renowned Broadway critic

“Absolutely beautiful... So inspiring; I think I may have found some new ideas for the next Avatar.”

“Absolutely the NO.1 show in the world, absolutely the best... No other company or of any style can match this!”

—Robert Stromberg, AcademyAward winning production designer for AVATAR

—Kenn Wells, former lead dancer of the English National Ballet

MAR 31 - APR 6, 2016 Orpheum Theatre

203 West Adams St., Phoenix, AZ 85003

Mar Apr Apr Apr

31, 1, 2, 2,

Thu Fri Sat Sat

7:30pm 8:00pm 2:00pm 7:30pm

“It was a very spiritual “Go see it to believe it, because experience and it moved me otherwise, you are going to and I cried. I kept thinking, this miss the most important thing in your life.” is the highest and the best of what humans can produce.” —Olevia Brown-Klahn, musician

Apr 3, Sun 1:00pm Apr 5, Tue 7:30pm Apr 6, Wed 7:30pm Tickets: $150, $120, $100, $80, $60

—Joe Heard, former White House photographer, watched Shen Yun 5 times

Tickets: 800.880.0188 ShenYun.com/Phoenix

YOU GOTTA

SEE

THIS PLACE!

Fresh Ground Burgers

THE WORLD FAMOUS

B R I E N D D N E I R M theminderbinder.com

University & McClintock Tempe, AZ

LIKE NO PLACE

ON EARTH

Hand Tossed Pizza

and much more!!

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

CONTENTS

ON THE COVER

Grammer Guy Singer, songwriter and now a talented dancer, Andy Grammer will hit all his marks when he hits the stage at the AT&T Playoff Playlist Live! for the College Football Championship.

Countdown to No. 1 Europe saw success in the mid-80s with their hit â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Final Countdown,â&#x20AC;? but thanks to a Geico commercial, the song finally reached No. 1 on the Billboard charts.

Fore Fun

The 81st Annual Waste Management Open comes back to the Valley and brings all the fun and games that this PGA Tour stop is well known for.

Metal Monsters Monster Jam is on its way back to the Valley and

is bringing Metal Mulisha driver Todd LeDuc and all of his speedster friends with it. on the cover: Andy Grammer

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

3200 N. Hayden, Suite 210 Scottsdale, AZ 85251 Phone 480-348-0343 Fax 480-348-2109 www.entertainermag.com

Jersey Boys

The Arizona Diamondbacks showed off their new and improved jerseys that blend the old school purple and teal designs with the Sedona red and tan of recent years.

publisher

Steve T. Strickbine steve@entertainermag.com

executive editor

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski christina@entertainermag.com

associate editor

Breanne DeMore breanne@entertainermag.com

art director

THE METROPOLITAN

Top 25 • PHX Insider lends a paw • Take a swing at the WM Open • Sam Means business • Ben Gleib keeps the laughs comin’ • Another desert for Arabian Horses

THE EXTRAORDINAIRE 23 Toys! for the kids in us all • Best gaming apps • Metal mashing Monster Jam • Andy Grammer schools at the College Football Championship • Shen Yun dances back into our hearts

THE TOURIST

A peak into Payson • Tucson’s Tanque Verde Ranch

THE ARTIST

Erin Loukili erin@entertainermag.com

designer

Jaclyn Threadgill

circulation director

Aaron Kolodny aaron@entertainermag.com

staff writer Jasmine Kemper

It’s Electric!

INTERN

New Sound, Same Vanessa

The best food events in January • Diner Insider at The Refuge • Happy Hour Guide • Dillon’s BBQ smokes up a new location • Fast AND healthy food • Detroit Coney Grill brings Motown to our town • The best teppanyaki toss-ers in town

THE CRAFTMASTER

Beer Over Here • Chilly Chillsner • Great Beer Pairings at Federal Pizz • BeerFinder Directory • Beertenders • All about porters and stouts • Sipping suds with Swann •The Brewer’s Bowl

THE HIGHROLLER

The best casino events in January • A full casino entertainment calendar • Europe counts down to No. 1 • Gaming Tip

You might know Vanessa Carlton from her ubiquitous 2002 hit “A Thousand Miles,” but 13 years later and a little bit of self-discovery will have you rediscovering this beauty all over again.

THE GLADIATOR

The best sports events in January • The Arizona Diamondbacks show off their new looks • The College Football Championship hits the Valley

THE YOUNGSTER

The best family events in January • ArcAttack • Disney On Ice freezes the desert • “Harry Potter” takes up residence in SoCal

THE SHOWMAN

Vanessa Carlton’s new sound • The Band Perry is here to sing and cheer, not

WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

Damir Lolic

Coming Attractions • Our experts’ movie picks of the month • The Critic’s Report Card

THE DINER

Joseph Airdo, Randy Montgomery, M.V. Moorhead, Weiss Kelly, Dylan Ardnt, Dave Clark

The best arts events in January • Schoolhouse Symphony • Sip and Sculpt at the Sculpture & Wine Festival • You can’t deny Human Nature • Black Violin blends hip-hop and classical

THE CRITIC

contributing writers

ArcAttack at the Mesa Arts Center showcases an electrifying display of rock music, lights and science—perfect for those little rockers in your family.

necessarily in that order • SafetySuit looks up • Gem & Jam brings gems and jams to Tucson • Marianas Trench brings the 1980s to today • Live music calendar

THE NIGHTOWL

109

The best nightlife events in January • SHIP2SHIP brings beats ashore • TIPSY Drink of the Month • Nightlife photos • Markus Shulz • Mad Mixologist • Oddly Accurate Astrology

THE THINKER

ONE COPY PER READER

The Entertainer! is circulated throughout the Phoenix Metro area, especially concentrated in entertainment districts. ©201 Affluent Publishing, LLC. A free online subscription is available to all readers simply by going to entertainermag.com/subscribe. For calendar and news items, the deadline for submission is the 15th of the month prior to publication. Submissions are included based on available space and are used at the discretion of the editor. Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations will not be returned unless it is specifically requested and submission is accompanied by a properly addressed envelope and sufficient postage. The Entertainer! makes every effort to authenticate claims and accurate times and event locations. We encourage readers to verify information prior to attending events or purchasing tickets. DISTRIBUTION SERVICES PROVIDED BY:

116

You don’t need to know these facts. You really don’t. But we know you want to.

480-348-0343

$2 Domestic Drafts $3 Craft/Import Drafts $4 Well Drinks

$5 Food Menu $5 Premium Cocktails $5 Select Wines (By the Glass)

JANUARY'S JESTERS AT THE HOUSE OF COMEDY

LEONARD OUZTS

BRET ERNST

MONTREAL’S JUST FOR LAUGHS FESTIVAL NEW FACE

VINCE VAUGHN’S

WILD WEST COMEDY SHOW

SARAH TIANA

BEN GLEIB

JANUARY 6-10

JANUARY 20-24

JANUARY 13-17

JANUARY 28-31

RENO 911

HOST OF GAME SHOW NETWORK’S

CHELSEA LATELY

IDIOT TEST

CHECK OUT MORE

UPCOMING

PERFORMANCES

& PURCHASE TICKETS ONLINE AT

houseofcomedy.net

480.420.3553

5350 E. HIGH STREET

(FORMERLY CITY NORTH) LOOP 101 & 56TH ST.

PHOENIX AZ

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

THE METROPOLITAN

PHX » CITY » LOCAL » PRIDE » DO » SEE

Ben Gleib 18 The Arabian Horse Show 20 Phoenix Open 14

TOP25 Jasmine Kemper » The Entertainer!

45th Annual Fiesta Bowl Parade

JANUARY 2 The Fiesta Bowl Parade is back for its 45th year with more colorful floats, balloons, marching and music. The 2-mile parade is free to the public and will feature the talented sounds of the Ohio State University Marching Band. Premium bleacher seating is available to those who want the best seat in the house for just $25. Downtown Phoenix, North Central Avenue and West Montebello Avenue, 480.350.0900, fiestabowl.org, 11 a.m., free

Music of John Williams

JANUARY 2 AND 3 John Williams is undoubtedly one of the most talented composers of our time. He is best known for his fantastic film scores in movies such as “Harry Potter,” “Star Wars,” “Indiana Jones,” “Schindler’s List” and many others. Now you can enjoy the music live when the Phoenix Symphony performs some of his best scores from the past 60 years. Phoenix Symphony Hall, 1 N. First Street, Suite 200, Phoenix, 602.495.1999, phoenixsymphony. org, times vary, prices vary

Willie Nelson & Family

JANUARY 5 Everyone’s favorite American country singer is heading to the Valley. For more than 60 years, hits like “On The Road Again” and “To All the Girls I’ve Loved Before” have captured our hearts. You can see this long-haired cowboy with guitar in hand live at Celebrity Theatre. Celebrity Theatre, 440 N. 32nd Street, Phoenix, 602.267.1600, celebritytheatre.com, 7:30 p.m., $71-$131

Donny Osmond

JANUARY 8 Donny Osmond is celebrating 50 years in show business with his “Soundtrack of My Life Tour.” This child star turned multitalented entertainer is sharing parts of his life through this new album. He’s featuring songs like “My Cherie Amour,” the first record he ever purchased and the song that was playing when he decided to marry his wife, Elton John’s “Your Song.” Follow Osmond on this epic journey of his life as told through music. Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, 800.946.4452, wingilariver.com, 8 p.m., $65-$135

Joel McHale

JANUARY 8 THROUGH 9 McHale’s reign as host for the weekly comedy show “The Soup” ended last month, but that doesn’t mean he’s any less funny! Since 2005, he’s made us laugh from our couches, telling strange and hilarious stories that happened throughout the week. He also played former lawyer Jeff Winger on NBC’s television hit “Community.” You can catch this comedian beyond the TV screen at Stand Up Live and laugh out loud all night long. Stand Up Live, 50 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 480.719.6100, standuplive.com, times vary, $35

Arizona Vegetarian Food Festival

JANUARY 9 AND 10 Veggie lovers rejoice for the Arizona Vegetarian Food Festival! For two days, all things fruit and vegetable will consume Scottsdale with meatless goodies, food demonstrations, relaxation and wellness exercises and sustainable, raw and natural products from plenty of vendors. Learn all about how the vegan and vegetarian lifestyle can naturally sustain your body and the planet!

Scottsdale Civic Center Amphitheater, 3939 N. Drinkwater Boulevard, Scottsdale, azvegfoodfest.com, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., $20 general, $50 VIP

Macklemore & Ryan Lewis

JANUARY 9 Macklemore & Ryan Lewis are kicking off their U.S. tour here in Phoenix. This hip-hop pair formed in 2008 and didn’t look back. After their latest single, “Downtown” premiered at the 2015 MTV Movie Awards in August, it sold more than 772,000 copies by November. However, you might know them better from their radio hit “Thrift Shop” and the respective video that shows Macklemore donning the infamous tiger-striped fur coat. Comerica Theatre, 400 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, 602.379.2800, comericatheatre.com, 8 p.m., $35-$67

“If/Then”

JANUARY 12 THROUGH 17 Broadway queen Idina Menzel is best known for her roles in film and musical hits such as “Rent,” “Wicked,” “Glee” and “Frozen.” She is reprising her role as Elizabeth in the Broadway musical “If/Then” at the ASU Gammage. Elizabeth is a city planner whose fate takes her to New York where the storyline follows two separate paths. Follow Elizabeth through both her stories and see where life takes her. ASU Gammage, 1200 S. Forest Avenue, Tempe, 480.965.3434, asugammage.com, times vary, prices vary WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

Disney On Ice Frozen

JANUARY 13 THROUGH 18 Kids love the songs and parents probably have them forever engrained in their heads. Whatever the case, there’s no doubt that Disney’s “Frozen” is an icy tale that will warm anyone’s heart. Go on an ice skating adventure with Anna, Elsa, Kristoff and Sven during this musical performance. With Mickey and Minnie as hosts, this is sure to be a magical time. Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.379.7800, talkingstickresortarena.com, times vary, $25-$171

Marlon Wayans

JANUARY 14 THROUGH 17 Marlon Wayans is a comedic genius. He’s not just a comedian—he’s also an actor, screenwriter and film producer. Since his first role in 1988, Wayans had roles in many well-known comedic films such as “Scary Movie,” “Scary Movie 2,” “Little Man” and “White Chicks.” You can catch Wayans and his hilarious show during this special event. Stand Up Live, 50 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 480.719.6100, standuplive.com, times vary, $30 general, $40 VIP

Sculpture and Wine Festival

JANUARY 15 THROUGH 17 Combining art and wine is never a bad idea. At the Sculpture and Wine Festival in Fountain Hills, guests can view fantastic sculptures made of copper, clay, wood, glass, steel and a variety of other unique objects while sipping on fine wines. For just $10, patrons can receive six wine tasting tickets and a souvenir wine glass. Get your taste of the arts during this picturesque festival. Avenue of the Fountains, 16810, E. Avenue of the Fountains, Fountain Hills, 480.837.5637, thunderbirdartists.com, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., $3

Marathon. A party awaits you at the finish line with over 50 live bands and cheer squads present to encourage the runners all weekend long. The 5K and the KiDS Rock race take place on Friday, and the 10K, Half Marathon, Full Marathon and two-person Half Marathon Relay are on Saturday. The weekend ends with a concert by Better Than Ezra. Get your race on at this rockin’ run! Locations vary on race, 800.311.1255, runrocknroll.com, times vary, prices vary

“Peter Pan 360”

JANUARY 13 THROUGH FEBRUARY 21 Come see the high-flying boy who never grew up in this spectacular show. Peter Pan 360 is a production located inside a unique threesixty theater. The show takes place in a 100-foot tent with high-resolution projections covering the walls and ceilings. Guests will experience the magic of Peter Pan and the children flying through the sky. You’ll feel as if you are in the middle of Neverland during this one-of-a-kind performance. The Pavilions at Talking Stick, 9090 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale, 844.772.6360, peterpan360.com, times vary, $50-$94

The Temptations

JANUARY 16 You’ll be tempted to catch The Temptations at Wild Horse Pass! Named as one of the top 50 bands of all time in Rolling Stone, this five-man band has been bringing soul tunes to the stage as far back as the ‘60s. With hit songs like “My Girl,” “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg” and “Just My Imagination,” you can go back in time with some sweet music from one of the most successful music groups in history. Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, 800.946.4452, wingilariver.com, 8 p.m., $35-$99

STYX

JANUARY 17 Originating in the Windy City, this iconic American rock band has five multiplatinum albums and 16 Top 40 singles in the United States. They gained worldwide recognition with fan favorites like “Lady,” “Come Sail Away” and “Mr. Roboto.” Grab your tickets to experience the music live from this legendary group. Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale, 480.850.7734, talkingstickresort. com, 8 p.m., $35-$150

Never Shout Never Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon

JANUARY 16 AND 17 Race around Scottsdale, Tempe and Phoenix during the Rock ‘n’ Roll WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

JANUARY 19 In the mid-2000s, emo pop was all the rage, and Never Shout Never was no exception. Back then it was just Christofer Drew, the Missourian who became famous via MySpace. Today, he

is the vocalist and guitarist alongside bassist Taylor MacFee and drummer Hayden Kaiser. They’re coming to Tempe with Metro Station, Jule Vera and Waterparks. Get ready, people. Marquee Theatre, 730 N. Mill Avenue, Tempe, 480.829.0607, 7 p.m., $20

Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7

JANUARY 21 Conductor Tito Muñoz is bringing one of Beethoven’s best works to the Scottsdale Center for the Arts. Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7 is most famous for its second movement, which can be heard in films such as “The King’s Speech.” Catch this compelling performance with the music from one of the world’s greatest composers, Ludwig van Beethoven. Scottsdale Center for the Arts, 7380 E. Second Street, Scottsdale, 480.874.4644, scottsdaleperformingarts.org, 7:30 p.m., $39-$59

Chocolate and Wine Experience JANUARY 22 Chocolate and wine are oh so fine, especially when you can experience them inside of the beautiful Musical Instrument Museum. Take a bite of rich chocolates and sip on reds or whites during this sweet event. While indulging in wine and chocolatey goodness, guests can explore select exhibits in the museum throughout the night. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix, 480.945.7193, mim.org, 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m., $60 adv, $70 doe

Barrett-Jackson Car Auction

JANUARY 23 THROUGH 31 Car enthusiasts won’t want to miss this automobile extravaganza. Last year, the Barrett-Jackson auction broke world records by yielding over $130 million in car sales and $6.55 million in auto memorabilia. Come check out some of the sleekest machines on four wheels at this annual collector’s event. WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, 480.421.6694, barrett-jackson. com, times vary, prices vary

Dogs Day in the Garden

JANUARY 23 Treat your pooch to a day among the flowers! The Desert Botanical Garden is hosting Dogs Day in the Garden, where guests and their furry friends can take a stroll in the garden and have a doggone good time. Relax with some Doga (dog yoga), play in the bark park and sample delicious treats all morning long at this totally pawsome event. Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, 480.941.1225, dbg.org, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., price included with Garden admission

Color Run

JANUARY 23 Race in style with the happiest (and most colorful) 5K in town! Runners will begin the race with a prerace dance and music party to prepare for the festivities. During the run, participants will be covered with all the colors of the rainbow. Racers can run, walk, skip or jump during this race for all ages. Get ready to paint the town with this vibrant experience. Tempe Beach Park, 80 West Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, thecolorrun.com, 7:45 a.m., $35-$55

Vanessa Carlton

JANUARY 26 This cool chick caught our attention with her debut single “A Thousand Miles” back in 2002. Vanessa Carlton is a ballerina turned singer/songwriter who got her start singing in New York City clubs and bars. With the release of her fifth album entitled Liberman in 2015, it’s clear to see she’s not going anywhere anytime soon. Livewire, 7320 E. Indian Plaza, Scottsdale, 480.970.6980, livewireaz.com, 7 p.m., $18

Colin Jost

JANUARY 28 THROUGH 30 Colin Jost was a staff writer at “Saturday Night Live” in 2005 at just 22 years old and became head writer in 2012. From there, he was named co-anchor of “Weekend Update,” succeeding Seth Myers. Laugh the night away when this witty comedian makes his way to Tempe Improv. Tempe Improv, 930 E. University Drive, Tempe, 480.921.9877, tempeimprov.com, times vary, $22

Street Eats Food Truck Festival JANUARY 30 THROUGH 31 The only thing better than a delicious meal is a delicious meal on wheels. At the Street Eats Food Truck Festival, guests can grab a bite from the best food trucks in the Valley! Attendees experience celebrity chef cooking demos, eating contests, live music and, of course, plenty of tasty treats. Don’t forget to sample meals from the tastiest mobile kitchens all in the one place! Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, 7555 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, 480.270.5000, streeteatsaz.com, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., $12 general, $50 VIP

Jason Alexander

JANUARY 30 THROUGH 31 You might remember Jason Alexander from his role as the hard-not-to-love George Costanza on the television sitcom “Seinfeld.” These days, he’s showing us another talent from his earlier years as a Broadway star. This show at the Phoenix Symphony is sure to be a fun night full of music and laughter thanks to this talented man. Phoenix Symphony Hall, 1 N. First Street, Suite 200, Phoenix, 602.495.1999, phoenixsymphony. org, times vary, $18-$83

PHX INSIDER

Pets deserve a little pampering, too

Kids’ Tickets Start at $10! Kids’ Tickets Kids’ Tickets Ages 2-12. Limit of three (3) kids’ tickets with purchase of a full-price adult ticket. Restrictions, exclusions and additional charges may apply. Subject to availability. Tickets $5 more day of show.

SaT. FEB. 6 Start at $10! Start at $10! UNIVERSITY OF PHOENIX STaDIUM

Ages 2-12. Limit of three (3) kids’ tickets with purchase of a full-price adult ticket. Restrictions, exclusionsAges and2-12. additional charges maytickets apply. Subject toofavailability. Tickets $5 more day of show. Limit of three (3) kids’ with purchase a full-price adult ticket. Ages 2-12.and Limit of threecharges (3) kids’may tickets withSubject purchase of a full-price adult$5ticket. Restrictions, exclusions additional apply. to availability. Tickets more day of show. Restrictions, exclusions and additional charges may apply. Subject to availability. Tickets $5 more day of show.

Buy Tickets: ticketmaster.com UNIVERSITY OF UNIVERSITY OF PHOENIX PHOENIX STaDIUM 800-745-3000 • VenueSTaDIUM Box Office

SaT. FEB. SaT.6 FEB. 6

Buy Buy Tickets: Tickets: ticketmaster.com ticketmaster.com •• 800-745-3000 800-745-3000 •• Venue Venue Box Box Office Office

UNIVERSITY OF PHOENIX STaDIUM

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Competitors are to subject to change. Photos SimonCudby Cudby &&Hoppenworld.com. ©2015©2015 Feld Motor Sports, Inc.Sports, Inc. Competitors shown areshown subject change. Photos by by Simon Hoppenworld.com. Feld Motor

If you consider your pets part of the family, then you should treat them as such. Pampering your pooch or kitty has never been easier in the Valley, especially with these local groomers and pet boutiques. Skip the big chain pet stores and opt for a shop that was specially made with your furry friend in mind. Doggy Daze

Wag N’ Wash

Doggy Daze, 5555 N. Seventh Street, Suite 126, Phoenix, 602.626.5006, doggydazeaz.com

Wag N’ Wash, 7777 E. Indian School Road, Scottsdale, 480.946.9274, wagnwash.com

This hip spot in midtown Phoenix makes sure your pup is pampered every step of the way with baths, high-quality dog food, treats, collars, toys and more. Baths include hypoallergenic shampoo and conditioner, nail clipping, ear cleaning, sanitary cuts and a blow dry. If you’re a do-it-yourself kind of person, they offer a self-serve station as well.

Noble Beast

If you are living a healthy and sustainable life, your pets should too. At Noble Beast, pets can enjoy a variety of organic and natural foods at a low price! Additionally, you can find plenty of vitamins, grooming supplies, pet health products, toys and other gear to keep your pets happy and healthy.

Noble Beast, 1005 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, 602.265.4223, noblebeastpets.com

This family business got its start in Colorado by two brothers. The one-stop pet shop offers self-service washes for your pooch as well as full-service grooming. Wag N’ Wash works to bring only the best organic, natural and raw pet foods and petfriendly items. To top it off, they have an all-natural pet bakery inside, where biscuits, cookies and treats are made fresh daily.

Choice Pet Market

Choice Pet Market has organic and holistic foods for dogs, cats, birds, reptiles and more. They pride themselves on having a knowledgeable staff and top brands like Ark Naturals, Cat Tails, Dr. Harvey’s, Old Mother Hubbard and many others. With seven locations around the Valley, it’s never been easier to give your pets the very best.

Choice Pet Market, 2131 E. Camelback Road, Suite, 109, Phoenix, 602.954.4000, choicepetmarket.com

AmericanAuctionCo.com

Live auctions 1st & 3rd Saturdays each month or BID ONLINE WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

ArizonaMusicfest Musicfest Arizona 19 Performances Conveniently Located In and Around North Scottsdale

BRASS TRANSIT: THE MUSIC OF CHICAGO

FRIDAY, JAN 29

MUSICFEST YOUNG MUSICIAN’S CONCERT

SUNDAY, JAN 31

SINATRA & MORE FEATURING TONY DESARE

MONDAY, FEB 1

FEA AR TURE TIS D T

PETER & WILL ANDERSON QUARTET

WEDNESDAY, FEB 3

YOU’VE GOT A FRIEND

FRIDAY, FEB 12

THE MUSIC OF CAROLE KING & JAMES TAYLOR

AL JARREAU

RUN BOY RUN

KRUGER BROTHERS

BOB MOODY & FRIENDS

FRIDAY, FEB 5

MONDAY, FEB 8

SATURDAY, FEB 13 2nd SHOW JUST ADDED!

TUESDAY, FEB 16

F HE ESTIV AD AL LIN ER

CALIDORE STRING QUARTET

MOZART’S 25TH & MAHLER’S “TITAN”

JOSHUA BELL with the FESTIVAL ORCHESTRA

ESTEBAN with the FESTIVAL ORCHESTRA

CARMINA BURANA

DUKES OF DIXIELAND

THURSDAY, FEB 18

FRIDAY, FEB 26

TUESDAY, FEB 23

SUNDAY, FEB 28

THURSDAY, FEB 25 **SOLD OUT**

THURSDAY, MAR 3

TICKETS ON SALE NOW THE BROADWAY TENORS

SUNDAY, MAR 6

THE AUSTRALIAN BEE GEES

FRIDAY, MAR 11

480.840.0457

•

azmusicfest.org

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE WASTE MANAGEMENT PHOENIX OPEN

THE GREATEST (AND GREENEST!) SHOW ON GRASS

It’s time for the 81st annual Waste Management Phoenix Open Michelle Talsma Everson » The Entertainer!

very year the Valley of the Sun enters the international spotlight as the Waste Management Phoenix Open (WMPO) welcomes golf competitors and fans from across the globe. This year, Tournament Week takes place from Monday, February 1, through Sunday, February 7, and the 72-hole PGA TOUR event (which is part of the PGA TOUR’s FedExCup) is from February 4-7. The event is held at TPC Scottsdale. The WMPO is the best-attended golf tournament in the world and has gained legendary status for being the most unique stop on the PGA TOUR, according to event staff. The 2016 edition will mark the 81st playing of the event (one of the five oldest events on the PGA TOUR) and the seventh as the Waste Management Phoenix Open. “Not only does it [the WMPO] have an economic impact of more than $225 million to the surrounding community based on a 2012 impact study but I think it also is the source of a great deal of pride

WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

for the community,” says Tournament Chairman Dan Mahoney. “We call it the ‘People’s Major’ for a reason: because it is an enormous event that has something for everybody and draws huge crowds.”

New This Year While much of the event will be similar to years past, there are some new things to look forward to this time around. One recent announcement is that the Ak-Chin Indian Community was named the event’s presenting sponsor. According to event staff, this is the first time the WMPO has had a locally based presenting sponsor. “The Ak-Chin Indian Community has long understood our role in giving back to the community at large,” says Louis J. Manuel, Jr., chairman of the Ak-Chin Indian Community. “Through The Thunderbirds and the success of the Waste Management Phoenix Open we can continue that commitment and provide financial support to several worthwhile organizations throughout Arizona.” In addition, fans on the ground will notice some changes to the venue. “While we are adding a number of new skyboxes and corporate suites,

including the new Bay Club on 17, we will continue to provide a fan-friendly environment for everyone,” Mahoney says. “The FanZone continues to provide a great energetic environment for the fans where they can get both food and beverage. Additionally, we have a new venue perched above the 12th hole that is called El Rancho where general admission fans can get Mexican fare and pre-mixed margaritas while getting away from the crowds but having incredible views of multiple holes.” Another exciting change is that daily general admission to the event is free on Monday, February 1, and Tuesday, February 2. Mahoney says that the two free days are sponsored by Ford Free Days and that this is a first for the WMPO.

What To Do Of course, there is not only the main golf tournament to see, but also practice rounds early on in the week. In addition, there are several nights of entertainment at the Coors Light Birds Nest, which is located directly across from the tournament entrance. This year, headlining performers include Rascal

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

Flatts, Dierks Bentley, Robin Thicke and Tiesto. (See accompanying story.) There will also be the Special Olympics Open (February 2) and the sixth annual GREEN OUT. “On Saturday, February 6, the tournament invites everyone to participate in the sixth annual GREEN OUT. Players, caddies and fans are encouraged to wear green to showcase their support for the environment, the community and all that Waste Management is doing to solidify the tournaments status as not only the greenest event on the PGA TOUR but also the most charitable,” Mahoney explains. “For every person who wears green on Saturday, The Thunderbirds will donate ‘green’ to three charities including Bonneville Environmental Foundation’s ‘Change the Course,’ Arizona Recycling Coalition and the Arizona Chapter of Solid Waste Association of North America.” Event staff notes that the best way to keep up with all events is to visit the official WMPO website at wmphoenixopen.com.

Community Impact One unique aspect of the WMPO is that it’s not only the pros competing for an impressive purse (Brooks Koepka is this year’s defending champion.), but its direct financial impact on area charities is impressive. In fact, last year, the Waste Management Phoenix Open hosts,

The Thunderbirds, handed out more than $9 million to local charities through proceeds raised from the 2015 tournament. This is the highest singleyear charitable donation in tournament history, helping to reach a historic milestone of more than $100 million that The Thunderbirds have raised in the history of the organization, dating back to 1932, according to the Thunderbirds Big Chief Danny Calihan. “Congratulations to The Thunderbirds on setting a record with more than $9 million raised for charity from this year’s [2015] Waste Management Phoenix Open,” PGA TOUR Commissioner Tim Finchem touted when the amount was announced. “This is an incredible achievement that will have a profound effect on the lives of many. The tournament is annually one of the leaders on the PGA TOUR in terms of the impact it is having in the community and that is due to the selfless efforts of The Thunderbirds, Waste Management, the tournament staff and all of those involved in the event.” “Not only is it the largest golf tournament in the world but it most assuredly is one of the most exciting and well attended events on the planet,” Mahoney adds. “Couple all of that with the millions and millions that the Tournament generates for charity and how can you live in Phoenix and not be proud of that?”

BIRDS NEST

FLIES BEYOND EXPECTATIONS Christina Fuoco-Karasinski » The Entertainer!

n the two years that Kevin Kopp has been involved in the Coors Light Birds Nest, he has seen the Waste Management Phoenix Open-affiliated concert series flourish. Last year, Kid Rock headlined the event that also saw Darius Rucker, Afrojack and Capital Cities hitting the stage. This year, it’s bringing in heavy hitters—Rascal Flatts (Wednesday, February 3), Dierks Bentley (Thursday, February 4), Robin Thicke (Friday, February 5) and Tiesto (Saturday, February 6). “The Birds Nest has taken on a life of its own,” says Kopp, a volunteer with the Thunderbirds and Birds Nest chairman. “It used to be this little piece of entertainment with local, small, maybe, regional acts. “Over the last five to six years, it’s really morphed into a festival. These festivals are the hot new thing in music scenes around the country. Because of the tournament, we’ve been able to leverage the notoriety and success of the tournament to make some good in-roads to the music industry. It’s paid off.” This year marks the first time a VIP pit has been offered. Last year it was so successful with the Kid Rock concert that it was expanded to all four days. Kid Rock’s 2015 Birds Nest show sold out long before the February event. Tickets can be purchased at coorslightbirdsnest.com. “The pit is an exclusive area right in the front of the stage and it’s got a very small capacity—only about 400 people,” Kopp says. “You get all of the amenities of our VIP area in addition, when the concert starts, you are right in front of the stage.” So how as the Birds Nest been able to leverage such in-demand artists? Kopp chalks it up to the success of the Waste Management Phoenix Open. “First and foremost, it’s connected with the largest golf tournament in the world,” he says. “That has always been a great embedded audience to pull from. There’s a natural flow. As the tournament’s gotten bigger and bigger, it’s reaching occupancy records. “That’s only increased our reach for people to come to the Birds Nest. Golf ends— depending on the day—between 3:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. People are always looking for something to do when golf ends.” It doesn’t hurt that organizers are attracting the likes of Bentley, Thicke, Rascal Flatts and Dutch DJ Tiesto. “There’s a direct correlation between our ticket sales and occupancies at the Birds Nest. The two biggest reasons that the Birds Nest continues to flourish and gain popularity.”

Waste Management Phoenix Open

TPC Scottsdale, 17020 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale, Monday, February 1 through Sunday, February 7, times vary, prices vary WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

ROLL WITH IT

Marathon fun for runners; profitable for charities Jacqueline Bradford » The Entertainer!

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t may sound untraditional for a race, but the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon isn’t staid. More than 20,000 participants will run, sprint, walk and dance throughout Tempe, Scottsdale and

Phoenix during the annual series Saturday, January 16, and Sunday, January 17. The marathon will feature live performances and cheerleaders throughout the races to encourage runners. At the finish line, runners will be greeted with a headlining performer. “The Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon makes running fun,” says Dan Cruz, Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon spokesman. “The people who don’t necessarily look at themselves at competitive runners are able to have a great experience. It has changed the game of the sport of running overnight.” “This is a great way to bring the communities together and promote the area.” The 5K, 10K and half marathon will begin and end around Tempe. Meanwhile, the full marathon begins in Phoenix and cuts through Scottsdale before ending in downtown Tempe, Before the races begin, runners and guests can peruse the Phoenix Convention Center during an expo designed to promote health and fitness. “Race weekend will kick off with the free health and fitness expo where participants pick up their T-shirts and goodie bags, along with over 80 exhibits and vendors with the latest and greatest in

nutrition and athletic apparel,” Cruz says. According to Cruz, runners can partake in free clinics, and conversations with past Olympians and other experts in the sport of running. Charity is a big part of the mission of the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon, an eligible race for St. Jude’s Heroes, a program that allows individual to fundraise directly for St. Jude Christian’s Research Hospital. Cruz says more than $320 million have been raised since the beginning of series by working with thousands of local, national and international charities, including St. Jude. “We have a tremendous history of working with and providing a tremendous venue for charities to raise money,” Cruz added. “All they have to do is show up with the runners.”

Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon

800.311.1255, runrocknroll.com, Saturday, January 16 and Sunday, January 17, times vary, prices vary

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SMART AND FUNNY Ben Gleib begins 2016 comedy tour in Arizona

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THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

Erica J. Thompson » The Entertainer!

en Gleib is in the middle of the most successful time of his comedy career. “This has been the busiest, most work filled year I have ever had,” he says. “I have been able to do so many different things. It has been a really great time.” In just over a year he wrapped working on “Chelsea Lately” as a regular panelist, completed a stand-up comedy world tour in five countries, and has his own television show, “Idiotest,” on the Game Show Network. Gleib is also appearing more and more on television with recent appearances on “Last Call with Carson Daly “and “The Today Show.” Gleib grew up in Los Angeles and got his start working the comedy circuit in Southern California. “I grew up with a love of stand up and wanted to do it since I was 5 years old,” he says. “[I] developed a speech problem as a kid and was unable to talk for much of my youth and childhood.” Since his childhood he wanted to be involved in comedy, inspired by the likes of Johnny Carson, Bill Murray, Steve Martin and Chevy Chase. “My absolute favorite comedian of all time was George Carlin and I think I am most similar to his style of stand up, except I improvise a lot more,” Gleib says. After college Gleib moved home to

Los Angeles to pursue a career in comedy. “I was in an improv group with Kristen Wiig and Felicia Bay, called The Empty Stage, training as an actor and doing stand up is what worked for me.” Stand-up comedy was the first of his pursuits to take off. Gleib said stand-up is where he received “the best response from people and the most direct connection with the crowd.” Since his early days in comedy Gleib has had a growing presence on television and film. Gleib shares that one of the highlights of his career so far has been having his own show and being on “Chelsea Lately.” “I love hosting ‘Idiotest,’ Gleib says about the show based on a app game. “Getting to host a popular game show feels amazing. I just love being able to be on TV consistently for the last seven to eight years. Being on ‘Chelsea Lately’ was a real blast. Getting to spar with Chelsea Handler was one of the quickest minds in comedy was really fun.” Gleib is a co-executive producer on “Idiotest” and helps write all the brain puzzles. He loves being involved with a show that he calls, “a unique combination for television that is both very intelligent mixed with very silly laugh-out-loud comedy. I don’t think you get that combination many places on TV or anywhere.” While this last year brought new professional opportunities for Gleib, he says that his favorite aspect of his career

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is getting to perform stand-up across the country and the world. “There’s no rush quite as good as getting on the stand-up stage in a different city and connecting with a crowd of people and making them laugh hysterically for an hour.” His six late-January shows at Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy at High Street marks the beginning of his 2016 tour. “I can’t wait for people to see my new material and to get to come out and have an all new experience,” he says. One of the trademarks of Gleib’s comedy is his ability to think quickly and improvise a large portion of his show. Each show is different depending on the room Gleib is playing to. “Every show is different and I really tailor the show to the crowd to what they want to hear and what the vibe of the room is,” he says. “You’ll never see the same show twice. I just love to feed off the energy of a particular crowd and I can’t wait to for the crowds in Arizona.”

Ben Gleib

Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy, 5350 E. High Street, Suite 105, Phoenix, 480.420.3553, houseofcomedy.net, Thursday, January 28, through Sunday, January 31, various times, $15 to $22

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MAJESTIC AND PURE

Enjoy close encounters with high-end equine at the Arabian Horse Show Scott Shumaker » The Entertainer!

orses, royalty, million-dollar deals, shopping and gourmet food: what better captures the essence of modern Scottsdale than this? The 61st Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show, Thursday, February 11, through Sunday, February 21, at WestWorld, holds attractions equine lovers and those just tipping a toe in the phenomena.

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For fanatics, the Arabian Horse Show is the first and largest show of the season and debuts the next generation of legendary horses. For everyone else, the Arabian Horse Show offers an opportunity to see world-class horsemanship and experience the mystique of the Arabian horse breed first-hand. The event, organized by the Arabian Horse Association of Arizona, has become a Scottsdale classic. But why an 11-day show dedicated

to Arabian horses? “Arabians are the most beautiful breed,” says Taryl O’Shea, executive director of the Arabian Horse Association of Arizona. “They are known for their beautiful faces, the big eyes, and they are very friendly animals. Everyone new should come and meet an Arabian horse up close and personal because they’re just amazing, friendly animals.” Arabians are considered one of

the oldest breeds of horse in the world and possess traits especially suited for desert warfare. One of the many myths surrounding the breed is that they are so personable because prized horses would sleep in the family tents with their Bedouin owners. Today, Arabian horses have a reputation for being friendly and versatile. “They can step really high, or they can jump, or they can do all sorts of cowboy things. They are just really smart creatures that stand apart from the other breeds,” says O’Shea. Each day of the Arabian Horse Show features heats of various competitions from Western horsemanship to English dressage. When visitors want a break from watching some of the most valuable and prized horses in the world, they can peruse an extensive range of shopping, dining and family-friendly activities available. The show includes displays from more than 300 vendors. “We have a following of non-horsey people who come year after year because there’s shopping, there’s great food, there’s educational seminars, there’s competitions, and there’s behind-the-scenes barn tours,” says O’Shea. This year’s events include ceramic horse painting, talks by horse experts, and “Meet an Arabian Horse” sessions, where visitors can touch and sit on an Arabian horse. O’Shea says that one new activity this year will be VIP tours to give visitors an inside glimpse at the glitzy world of world-class Arabian horses. “People can see what it takes for these horses to get ready to compete in such a huge event,” says O’Shea. There is more than bragging rights at stake in championship competition—Arabian horses have a following among the wealthiest horse owners, who are drawn to the show from around the world. High-dollar deals take place inside elaborately decorated barns during the show. “The top (horses) will go for millions of dollars...A lot of the royalty will come and pay whatever prices need to be paid to the get the new and best horses,” says O’Shea. Whether you are an aficionado or just curious to see what the mystique of the Arabian horse is all about, the Arabian Horse Show is a one-of-a-kind event.

Arabian Horse Show

WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, 480.515.1500, scottsdaleshow.com, Thursday, February 11 through Sunday, February 21, times vary, prices vary

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

Get Your $10 Kid’s Ticket Voucher at Participating Get Your $10 Kid’s Ticket ® Chick-fil-A of Voucher at Participating ® Phoenix Restaurants! Chick-fil-A of Phoenix Restaurants! UNIVERSITY OF PHOENIX STADIUM Sat. JAN. 30 UNIVERSITY OF ticketmaster.com Buy Tickets: Sat.BoxJAN. 30 PHOENIX800-745-3000 STADIUM • Venue Office Restrictions, exclusions and additional charges may apply. Subject to availability. See voucher for details.

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THE EXTRAORDINAIRE

STYLE » ENVY » PASSION » FASHION » BEAUTY » DESIGN

TOYS

Joshua Hammond » The Entertainer!

PIE FACE

Both amusing and suspenseful, Pie Face is an unpretentious game with one simple goal; don’t be the one to get pied. Users add whipped cream to the “hand” of this game then take turns turning the handles. With the possibility of going off at any time there is no way of knowing who is going to take the splat to the face. Players collect a point with every turn that keeps them clean. The first user to hit 25 points is the champion of Pie Face. If you’re looking for an easy target for a cheap gift, Pie Face’s $14.99 price tag makes the game a great buy for a insignificant cost.

BB-8 APPENABLED DROID

Without question, the BB-8 APPEnabled droid is the coolest thing on shelves right now. Combining remote controlled toy, message relaying and patrolling lookout device, the newest “Star Wars” robot packs a lot of punch. Like a less annoying and nerdier Furby, your droid and his personality will shift and be shaped by his contact with you. Tagged with a hefty $150 price tag, BB-8 comes with a certain level of commitment. However, the product is worth the cost for true Jedi fans and tech geeks. He’s a lot of fun.

MAKEY MAKEY CLASSIC

When two MIT graduate students invented MaKey MaKey, their ultimate goal was to provide everyone with the experience of invention. By connecting one end of an alligator clip to the provided MaKey MaKey board, which consists of arrow keys, a space bar and a left click button, users can create a keyboard out of everything from bananas, play dough or any materials laying around the house. No building or software is required. Simply plug the MaKey MaKey into your USB drive and you’re set to play video games, make unconventionally composed music or make your art interactive. For $59.95, the kit includes the MaKey MaKey Board, 1 USB Cable, seven Alligator Clips, six connector wires, 20 colored stickers and an instructive start guide. However, the price tag is worth the exploration of limitless creation. This is the best educational gift on the market today.

TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES PIZZA OVEN

Although the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Pizza Oven is just a recycled concept, dusted off and reimagined in a tougher and action based way, this reboot of the Easy Bake Oven engages kids cooking their favorite sewer dwelling Ninja Turtle’s favorite food. Following a small setup, kids watch their pizza move through the oven over the course of 15 minutes (compared to 30 minutes by most standard child ovens). Replacement ingredients are as simple as store-bought pizza dough, cheeses and sauce, or repeat usage is simple and accessible. The oven is sitting at a steep $49.99 in stores. Even if you’re paying a little extra for the TMNT brand name, the oven is asking a little much in cost. Look on Amazon for deals that range between $25.99 and $39.99.

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BEST GAME APPLICATIONS Joshua Hammond » The Entertainer!

Crossy Road

Combining the vintage premise and look of Frogger with the timeless mystery of what was urgently pressing the chicken to cross the road, Hipster Whale’s Crossy Road takes a simple concept and adds enough updated spark to jumpstart a new generation’s addiction to a timeless concept. The user can unlock a multitude of characters (for example: a cockatoo, a dingo, Frankenstein or a plate of kimchi) and maneuver busy highways, train stops and hop logs to cross alligator-filled rivers.

Fallout Shelter

If the Sims were to experience a post-apocalyptic nuclear meltdown, Fallout Shelter would be that result of that scenario. The user is left in charge of guiding a team of survivors to man food, power and water stations and helping his or her residents of the pod build relationships, maintain a level of happiness and repopulate the radiation doomed planet one pod at a time.

Ticket to Ride

In some ways, the online version of Ticket to Ride has improved the already popular and well-conceived board game from Days of Wonder. For example, the elimination of drawing cards and keeping score speeds up an in-person playtime of around 45 minutes. During the cross-country train escapade, users hoard colored train cards that they use as currency to purchase routes to cities throughout North America.

AdVenture

As the user grows his business from the modest days of building a lemonade stands to the high profits of owning an oil field, AdVenture allows a slow grow into the 1 percent. By hiring managers (named Forest Trump and Stefani Spielburger) and purchasing upgrades with previous profits gained, an empire is born. Angel investors ride your coattails as the game advances allowing greater promotions to be unlocked and lifestyles of the rich and famous to be gained.

Timberman

Test your skills as you chop down trees at light speed, dodging the branches that wiz past your head. As you reach high scores, you unlock additional Timbermen, such as Angels, Ninjas and Football Players.

Short review: Like all of Hipster Whale’s brilliant games (Smashy Road, Pac-Man 256) Crossy Road is sarcastically clever, played in short, highly energetic bursts and a great way to fill short lulls in your day. Cost: Free

Short Review: Although not as detailed as the Fallout series on Xbox and PlayStation, Fallout Shelter is a fantastic way to get through the time you have to put the controller down and live real life. If you’re committed to long term investing this game is worth checking out. Cost: Free

Short Review: This maddening board game will consume your life if you allow it. The addicting game play is worth every cent you invest. Cost: $2.99

Short Review: Game play only allows for short, detailed decisions. Therefore the game must be revisited over the course of weeks. However the time put into the game leads to an attachment to the achievements. Cost: Free

Short Review: A quick play for a rapid burst of time. Cost: Free

Not all apps are available for all operating systems.

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GYPSY SOUL

Todd LeDuc travels the world spreading the gospel of Monster Jam By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski » The Entertainer!

onster Jam driver Todd LeDuc finds it important to mingle with fans as much as possible. He signs autographs and takes photos with ticketholders. A lucky few even get to sit in the seat of Metal Mulisha. But one fan really made an impression—a young boy suffering from a brain tumor whose last wish was to see a Monster Jam event in Houston. “I thought, ‘Oh man, I don’t have Houston that week,’” recalls LeDuc, who has driven Metal Mulisha since 2012. “So I made a couple of phone calls to other drivers and the Feld people and said, ‘This child’s really sick. He has to go to the show. Can I have some of your tickets?’” Fellow drivers and Feld, the production company, granted the boy’s wish. “I got the family into the show,” he says. “Some of the drivers got to meet him and six days later he passed away.” It’s meetings like that that make LeDuc appreciate life and reinforce the importance of family. A Massachusetts native, LeDuc recently moved to Peoria to be closer to his wife’s family. Therefore, when Monster Jam comes to University

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of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale on Saturday, January 30, it’ll be his “new hometown show.” “With Monster Jam and off-road racing and traveling so much, it was easier to move by her mom,” says LeDuc, who has two children. “They can have a good family bond while I’m gone. “It makes my life a little easier. We have a newborn and a 3-year-old. When I’m in Japan or Australia, I won’t be getting mean phone calls then.” A longtime lover of the Valley, LeDuc won his first monster truck event in Phoenix. “I’ve also won either the racing part of the Phoenix show or the freestyle, which is the one where we do tricks,” LeDuc says. “I’ve always had good luck here. The electricity of the fans is the biggest part of the excitement. Going over to Glendale is going to be so exciting.” LeDuc chalks up his success to his “raw determination.” “My driving ability helps, too,” he says with a laugh. “I’ve come from other motorsports, so I picked up monster trucks a lot quicker. When I got into the big Monster Jam trucks, I was like a duck to water. I picked it right up and started winning championships.” It’s in his blood as well, as he is the son of legendary off-road driver Curt

LeDuc and the brother of fellow driver Kyle LeDuc. “When I was a child, I was always competing with my brother,” he says. “I was riding bikes faster than everybody else in the neighborhood or jumping higher. It’s always been in me deep down.” LeDuc drives the Metal Mulisha truck along with 15-time X-Games medalist Brian Deegan. When Deegan is not behind the wheel, LeDuc, a former off-road star, steps in. LeDuc says even though fans’ adrenaline gets him charged, he especially enjoys the traveling. “I’ve got a gypsy soul or something,” he says. “I like traveling or seeing the world, meeting new people and sharing what Monster Jam is with the world. “Here in the United States, we’re so accustomed to big trucks and racing. In Brazil or Australia, they don’t have those kinds of things. To showcase what Monster Jam is with other countries and blowing people’s minds is cool. “I’ve definitely been put on this Earth to drive Monster Trucks. To do this as a career and a job is incredible. I like talking to the fans and when they express their opinions, it’s the coolest thing.”

Monster Jam

University of Phoenix Stadium, 1 Cardinals Dr., Glendale, 800.745.3000, ticketmaster.com, 7 p.m. Saturday, January 30, $27-$132

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THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

AMMER CLASS

Andy Grammer keeps his mom in his heart whether dancing or singing

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski » The Entertainer!

s a celebrity on “Dancing with the Stars,” Andy Grammer was asked for his most memorable year. He chose 2009—the year his mother, Kathryn, was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was so advanced that he and his family had two to three days to say goodbye. Devastated, Grammer returned to busking but one day he looked to the sky and hoped for something positive to happen. He went home and, out of pain, penned his breakthrough hit “Keep Your Head Up.” It went on to sell more than 1 million downloads. The success of that song, as well as “Honey, I’m Good” and “Fine by Me,” afforded Grammer to participate in “Dancing” and pay tribute to his mom. One of Grammer’s subsequent singles, “Good to Be Alive (Hallelujah),” provided the soundtrack to the cha cha he danced with partner Allison Holker. “You know, there’s no right way to have a relationship with someone who has passed,” says Grammer whose father, Red, is a successful musician himself. “To honor them, remember them, we all find our own way. One of the ways I chose to honor my mother was...through dance. Amazing. Absurd. Surprisingly, so so sweet.”

Besides being emotionally challenging, “Dancing with the Stars” was a physical and mental test. “It was super challenging and maybe one of the most rewarding experiences of my life,’ Grammer says. “Honestly, physically, it wasn’t the hardest. I’m in decent shape, but mentally it was so hard. Remembering choreography every week was like finals week in college.” He wasn’t exactly schooled in dancing, either. “Honestly I don’t know how to dance and had very little dance experience,” Grammer says. “If you go on YouTube and watch some of the dances there were times where a girl is spinning from my neck and stuff. Unbelievable.” Dancing aside, Grammer will show off his musical prowess during the AT&T Playlist Playoff Live in Phoenix. He and Moon Taxi are supporting John Mellencamp on Sunday, January 10. An avid fan of Army and Navy, Grammer explains he’s not intimidated about opening for the “Pink Houses” singer. “As a songwriter I’m always really impressed by people who have been able to crank out a bunch of hits,” he says. “So someone like John, I am very honored to play with. Me and the band are all looking forward to it.” Grammer is the quintessential showman and he says to expect an

enthusiastic show in Phoenix. “This is not a singer-songwriter stand behind the mic and just play my songs type show,” he says. “Me and the band aim to make everyone get out of their seat and have the best time they’ve had in a while. “It’s a high bar to set every night and we go after with the same intensity I would imagine college football players run out of the tunnel with.” Besides playing Phoenix, Grammer will spend part of this year penning new music. “I’m definitely back into writing as the main focus of the New Year,” Grammer says. “I have a bunch of musical ideas that I’m excited to wrangle down into songs. I’m really looking forward to digging in.” He has the work ethic to back that statement. Thanks to his success as a singer-songwriter and as a dancer, he is confident in his talents. “With the right work ethic you can do anything.”

Andy Grammer

downtown Phoenix, collegefootballplayoff.com/events, Sunday, January 10, gates open at 12 p.m., free

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herished stories from China’s 5,000-year history will be retold during Shen Yun Performing Arts’ new bold and high-energy production at the Orpheum Theater Thursday, March 31, through Wednesday, April 6. The gong strikes and a journey across five millennia begins. From the mist, 60 dancers clad in traditional costumes emerge in front of a 30-foot tall video backdrop that morphs from the mountains of Tibet to the sprawling plains of Mongolia and points in between. A 40-piece orchestra rises with the sounds of western and ancient eastern instruments. The all-new spectacular Shen Yun 2016 tells the banned in Communist China stories of when heroes split mountains and swam with dragons, when divine beings walked the earth and when dynasties ruled supreme. Since 2007, more than 5 million people in 30 countries on four continents have enjoyed Shun Yun. Each year a new production is created and five touring companies travel the globe. “Shen Yun performs the essence of Chinese culture and the historical figures who have been nurtured by it,” says H. Sue Gao, vice president of Shen Yun’s training school, Fei Tian College. “Shen Yun is using classical Chinese dance to present this culture on the world stage.” Stories from China’s 5,000-year history like the tales of the heroine Mulan and General Yue Fei are told through large-scale dance numbers featuring authentically detailed period costumes. The vibrant video backdrop transports audiences through time to ancient dynasties such as the Tang and the Qin, to the mountains of Tibet, the shores of a Dai village and the sprawling plains of Mongolia. The interactive video allows dancers to jump in and out of the screen delighting the audience. In “The Fable of the Magic Brush,” a rescued maiden bestows a magic brush

JANUARY'S JESTERS!

upon her savior that transforms anything he paints into reality. When the savior paints on the video screen, the object becomes a cartoon in motion. Ultimately the maiden and savior jump into an ocean on screen where they become animated figures swimming underwater and flying in the skies. The Shen Yun Orchestra combines the spirit, beauty and distinctiveness of Chinese music with the precision, power and grandeur of the Western symphony orchestra. Traditional instruments are combined with the 5,000-year-old pipa and erhu resulting in two glorious traditions melding into one refreshing sound. Top composers from around the world create original music for each production. Bel canto soloists perform impassioned songs throughout the show. More than 5,000 years the traditions of martial arts, Chinese opera, folk dancing and acrobatics have linked to form traditional Chinese dance. Known for its incredible flips and spins, and its gentle elegance, classical Chinese dance is one of the most rigorous and expressive art forms in the world. China was once known as the Divine Land where deities and mortals coexisted peacefully. The culture of the Buddhist, Taoist and other disciplines along with calligraphy, music, medicine, attire and dance was said to be a gift from the heavens. Today, the Communist regime treats traditional ideas of harmony between heaven and earth as a threat to its existence. The stories once handed down from generation to generation are now forbidden in China.

Shen Yun 2016

Orpheum Theatre, 100 N. Third Street, Phoenix, 800.880.0188, shenyun.com, Thursday, March 31, through Wednesday, April 6, times vary, $60 to $149

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THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

THE TOURIST

VACATION » SIGHTS » DAY TRIPS » ADVENTURE » EXPLORE » TRAVEL

PAYSON, PEAKS AND PINE TREES

s an expat Midwesterner, fall and winter, to me, mean snow, moist cool air and barren trees that have gone into hibernation after a montage of colorful leaves. I got my fix in Payson. We dropped off our bags at the Mazatzal Hotel and Casino after a 90-minute drive, and excitedly headed northeast to the Woods Canyon Lake and Scenic Drive. Upon our arrival, we found that the visitors’ center was closed due to budget cuts. The staircase leading to the building and the lookout were covered in ice and snow. That didn’t stop us. My husband, Dave, led the charge, pulling me by my hand up the ice-laden staircase. My mom and niece followed. It was well worth the “danger” to witness the panoramic view of thousands of pine trees clear through to Four Peaks from the rickety wooden deck. After snapping a slew of photographs, we headed back to the Mazatzal Hotel and Casino, which offers all-suite rooms. We made our way past the jingle and jangle of the slot machines, through the lobby and up the elevator to our second-floor rooms. An Arizona hidden gem, the 20-year-old Mazatzal Hotel and Casino offers spacious rooms with a large bathroom, a work area and bedroom. Free Wi-Fi is readily available and reliable.

On the recommendation of Mazatzal’s John Giles, we tried the Cedar Ridge Restaurant, which specializes in comfort food. I eschewed the comfort food and opted for the Asian chicken salad, which was drenched in the Sesame Ginger dressing. It was a welcome addition, considering most restaurants put minimal dressing on Asian salads. My mom had the Reuben, which was way too large to eat in one sitting; same went with my niece’s serving of chicken tenders. On the other hand, my husband scarfed down his mushroomSwiss burger. We needed the sustenance for our journey to Tonto Natural Bridge State Park. We stopped at the visitor’s center (this one was open to pay the fee), and then drove into a sparsely populated lot. That was good news for us. We parked near the entrance to lookout three and four and peered over the rails to the trail hundreds of feet below. The brave one in the bunch, my husband hiked the trail down to the natural bridge and was fascinated with what he saw. A waterfall fell before him and he was surrounded by nature. It was a truly an oasis. As the rush of water filled the canyon, which only held two other visitors, we were reminded of the tranquility of the rim and everything that Arizona has to behold.

DAVE KARASINSKI

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski » The Entertainer!

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TOUR

DU JOUR

This month, The Entertainer! welcomes our newest section, “The Tourist,” a great addition for the more than 40 million visitors to our state, as well as locals, most of which come to us from all over the country. But we’re not stopping at the border. Anything within a day’s drive is fair game, so expect us to also clue you in to popular destinations of merit which may only be a tank of gas away. Whether it be nightlife, natural wonders, golf, resort diversions, amazing cuisine or one-of-a-kind attractions, let us point out the best of the mileposts. As we peel back the first few pages of what’s in store, we’ll bet you find more than one item that should be on your bucket list. Enjoy!

Arizona Hummer Tours

The entire family will be entertained at CrackerJax! Experience a variety of attractions including go karts, 18hole miniature golf course, 300-yard golf driving range with two levels and 66 bays, bumper boats, batting cages, the Bungee Dome, Alien Invasion Laser Tag, volleyball courts, Water Wars arcade, restaurant and more. Ideal for birthday parties and corporate events of all sizes. Open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; and 10 a.m. to 12 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Driving range is open at 8 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, and 8:30 a.m. Monday through Friday. 1601 N. Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale, 85254, Call 480.998.2800, CrackerJax.com

Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy Enjoy the best comedy club in the city, showcasing the absolute brightest stand-up comedy stars! Experience a world-class showroom, delicious food and full-bar service. Arrive early and visit The Heckler Lounge, a great place to meet, see live close-up magic and later, hang out with the comics after the show. The club is located on High Street (formerly City North) in Phoenix’s North Valley—one of the country’s hottest entertainment districts. Open Tuesday through Sunday, with additional performances on Fridays and Saturdays. The Heckler opens for happy hour daily. 5350 E. High Street, Suite 105, Phoenix, 85054, Call 480.420.3553, HouseOfComedy.net

CrackerJax Family Fun and Sports Park

Whether you’re looking for a simple sightseeing excursion, or a great adventure, let Arizona Hummer Tours give you the experience of a lifetime! AHT has been offering unique treks through the famous Sonoran Desert for the last 6 years. Feel the thrill of the H1 Hummer or Polaris Ranger®/ Rzr on challenging terrain. Explore mountains, canyons, rivers and breathtaking vistas. See ghost towns, Native American ruins, desert wildlife, flora & fauna. Go places that most people will never see! Receive a digital photo CD of your personal extreme adventure! Call (602) 692-7124 for more info. AZHummerTours.com

O.K. Corral Visit the actual site of Tombstone, Arizona’s legendary Gunfight at the O.K. Corral and see Wyatt Earp and “Doc” Holliday in daily reenactments. There are life-sized animatronic figures of the eight-gun fighters, too. Experience the Corral as it was in the 1880s, with working blacksmiths, antique cowboy gear, western buggies and four museum displays. Ticket includes admission to multimedia Tombstone history show and a copy of the October 26, 1881, Tombstone Epitaph newspaper with original reports of the gunfight. 326 E. Allen Street, Tombstone 85638, 520.457.3456, okcorral.com

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THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

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The Brass Tap The Brass Tap at Mesa Riverview has 60 taps and more than 240 different beers in bottles and cans making it the best craft beer experience in the Phoenix metropolitan area. Come on in and enjoy great beer, music on Fridays and Saturdays from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. and fantastic pub fare. It opens at 11 a.m. daily. The Brass Tap was recently awarded the Arizona Society of Home Brewers ASHy Award for Arizona Best Craft Beer Bar—East. The owners of The Brass Tap are extremely proud and grateful for receiving the award as it comes from an organization that truly appreciates craft beer. So, if you haven’t been to The Brass Tap, stop in and check out its constantly rotating 60 handles of great craft beer. 1033 N. Dobson Rd., Suite 104, Mesa Riverview, Mesa, 85201. 480.610.2337 (BEER), brasstapbeerbar.com/Mesa

Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch Since 1999, you’ve seen Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch on TV—“Larry the Cable Guy—Only in America,” “Extreme Roadside Attractions,” “Chef vs. City,” “Amazing Animals,” “Arizona Highways” and many more. Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch is a three-generation, family-owned, working ostrich ranch. It also boasts Miniature Sicilian Donkeys, Nigerian Dwarf Goats, Fallow Deer, Peking Ducks, “The Goat Penthouse” and the “Hole in the Wall Gang” featuring Boar Goats and Rainbow Lorikeets. On Saturday and Sunday, as well as holidays, experience the Picacho Peak Monster Truck Tours. It’s affordable family fun for all ages. Open daily from 9 a.m. 5 p.m. Located between Tucson and Phoenix at Picacho Peak, Interstate 10, Exit 219, 520.466.3658, roostercogburn.com

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THE WILD,

WILD WEST

Away from the suburban feel of the East Valley, Tucson’s Tanque Verde Ranch holds wild charm Christina Fuoco-Karasinski » The Entertainer!

anque Verde Ranch in Tucson is a Wild West experience that can’t be matched. Just take our arrival for example. Heading down a dirt portion of Speedway at 7 p.m. on a Friday, our high beams illuminated the darkening deadend road. We carefully turned left into what we hoped was the entrance of the 145-year-old ranch. In the gloom of darkness, we were greeted by a family of javelina crossing the road. Continuing down the “street,” we still weren’t sure if this was an entrance or a driveway to a rural home. But we finally found human life—a lively area milling with urban folks who had gamely donned cowboy hats and boots. Receiving the keys to our casita, we entered our spacious room, complete with fireplace, mini-fridge, king bed and bathroom. We dropped off our luggage and headed straight to the Doghouse Saloon to mix and mingle with fellow

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guests. Among the party was a couple from England, regulars at the ranch for 15 years. A man and woman from the Valley sat at the bar as well. Little did she know, he was going to propose on their weekend trip. (We received the tip from a welcoming ranch hand, who was preparing for the big reveal.) After downing a few dangerous prickly pear margaritas—the alcohol is unnoticeable—we retreated to bed, still unfamiliar with our surroundings. What we woke up to was magical. The front-window view opened onto acres of saguaros peppering the foothills. All was silent other than the wind blowing through the mesquite trees. We were more determined than ever to explore everything that Tanque Verde Ranch had to offer. My English husband braved the Wild West to go horseback riding, following a trail up Mount Nebo and through the Aguila Wash bordering Saguaro National Park. I embarked on a tour of the resort. After our respective outings, we returned to the Doghouse Saloon—can you see the trend?—before heading over to the Cottonwood Grove for a cookout. Light rain fell as we chowed down on such cowboy fare as grilled juicy steaks, barbecue-sauced pulled pork, baked beans, potatoes and salad with all the fixings. A country singer performed before a line-

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dancing crowd. The javelina braved the crowds to make a return appearance. We traveled back to our room and jumped into bed at 10 p.m., only to be awakened an hour later by a creature on our roof. Our eyes followed the pitterpatter of little animal feet traveling from one side of the casita to another. Truly, this felt like the Wild West. Wild as it may be, little ones needn’t be left at home. While parents are enjoying horseback riding or having a massage in the spa, 4- to 15-year-old kiddos can hang out with other children as part of the Kids Program. There is even a separate dining room for the munchkins. Tanque Verde ranch isn’t only for horse lovers, either. Catch-and-release fishing is available at Lake Corchran, which plays host to many a “trash-thedress” rituals. Hiking, yoga, mountain biking, wine classes, pickleball, tennis and watercolor workshops are also part of the fun. Rooms vary in price according to season, size and number of visitors. See its website for an outline of rates.

Tanque Verde Ranch

14301 E. Speedway, Tucson 520.296.6275 tanqueverderanch.com

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January Shines at the Center! Monterey Jazz Festival on Tour Fri, January 15, 8 p.m.

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THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

THE ARTIST

CULTURE » THEATER » DANCE » GALLERY » DRAMA » VISION

Human Nature 50 Sculpture & Wine Festival 48 Arts Calendar 42

‘FUNCTIONAL’ FUN Phoenix Symphony hits the books for ‘Schoolhouse Rock’ Christina Fuoco-Karasinski » The Entertainer!

nyone, say, 50 or younger can fully recite the preamble to the U.S. Constitution without hesitation, or define a conjunction thanks to the clever “Schoolhouse Rock” Saturday morning cartoon snippets. Phoenix Symphony Orchestra is celebrating the series with a concert featuring the Step on Stage children’s choir, a select ensemble of Horizon High School students. Part of the American Airlines Family Series, the show is 2 p.m. Sunday, January 10. “There’s just recently been a resurgence of those great Schoolhouse Rock videos and songs,” says Jim Ward, Phoenix Symphony Orchestra CEO. “It’s

gotten hip and cool again and we felt now that it’s kind of back in the public eye, why not do something around that and have some fun with it.” The concert will be led by Robert Franz, the associate conductor of the Houston Symphony. One of the highlights of his career was the world premiere of music from the iconic series for orchestra. “The Houston Symphony put together a show and their conductor is Robert Franz, who’s a great guy,” he says. “We talked to him and asked if we could recreate it up here. We started to do that with him and, voila, we have a show.” The show, he expects, will be a hit just like the jingles.

“Any time in music when you have an enduring melody and great lyrics, it’s going to stick around,” he says. “Cyclically, it’ll never go away. It keeps coming back. “The Schoolhouse Rock vignettes and songs and videos on TV were just great. They’re a lot of fun. They’re educational as well. Great music never goes away.”

Phoenix Symphony Orchestra’s Schoolhouse Rock

75 N. Second Street, Phoenix, 602.262.6225, phoenixsymphony.org, 2 p.m. Sunday, January 10, starts at $11

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Deathtrap

ARTS

CALENDAR PHOTO BY MARK KITAOKA

to present the new musical from the creator of “Wicked.” Based on the book by David Stern, this romantic musical comedy is centered around a married couple who, after 20 years, reminisce over their years together while looking through a box of photographs. The production features a variety of songs from Stephen Schwartz’s Broadway shows. Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe Street, 602.256.6995, arizonatheatre.org JANUARY 8-24

JANUARY 8 THROUGH 24 A once-successful playwright plots to kills a former student in an effort to steal his script and pass it off as his own. This comedy/thriller is the longest running on Broadway. Written in 1978, the play was turned into a feature film in 1982 starring Christopher Reeve, Michael Caine and Dyan Cannon. Presented by Mesa Encore Theatre Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main Street, Mesa, 480.644.6500, mesaencoretheatre.com

Thoroughly Modern Millie JANUARY 8 THROUGH FEBRUARY 7 The setting is the 1920s and Millie leaves Kansas for the city life in New York. She is on the mission to find a wealthy husband, but her life changes once she checks in to a hotel when her friend goes missing. The stage version is based on the 1960s film. Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre 4720 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.483.1664, desertstages.org

Legends of Guitar featuring Anthony Mazzella

THROUGH JANUARY 17

JANUARY 9 Anthony Mazzella has been named one of the “top 10 guitarists” in the country. The Sedona-based artist has released six albums and began his

Snapshots THROUGH JANUARY 17 Arizona Theatre Company is proud

LEGENDS OF GUITAR FEATURING ANTHONY MAZZELLA JANUARY 9

career in New York City. The acoustics of the MIM Music Theatre is a perfect location to enjoy this local artist. MIM Music Theatre 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix 480.478.6000 themim.org

Riverdance: The 20th Anniversary World Tour JANUARY 12 THROUGH 15 One of the most well-known and renowned dance troupes in the world is celebrating its 20th anniversary and is returning to Mesa. This theatrical show features traditional Irish music and dance. Since 1995, Riverdance has been performed in 450 venues and seen by more than 25 million people. Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main Street, Mesa, 480.644.6500 mesaartscenter.com

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From the Producers of MY MOTHER’S ITALIAN, MY FATHER’S JEWISH & I’M IN THERAPY!, RESPECT: A MUSICAL CELEBRATION OF WOMEN!, & YOU SAY TOMATO, I SAY SHUT UP!

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“A Surprising, Eventful Biography. A Distinctive Sound, A Penchant for Humor & An Animated Personality!” You thought you knew everything there was to know about Dr. Ruth Westheimer from her career as a pioneering radio and television sex therapist! But did you know about her incredible journey fleeing the Nazis in the Kindertransport and joining the Haganah in Jerusalem as a sniper, to her struggle as a single mother newly-arrived in America? This remarkable story is filled with the humor, honesty, and life-affirming spirit of Karola Ruth Siegel, the girl who became “Dr. Ruth,” America’s most famous sex therapist. Wed. 7 PM, Thu. 2 & 7 PM, Fri. 8 PM, Sat. 2 & 8 PM, Sun. 2 PM

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PlayhouseInfo.com

Box Office: 602-252-8497 • Group Sales: 888-264-1788

Black Violin JANUARY 15 The audience is in store for a unique and creative evening. Violinists Wil B. and Kev Marcus, together with DJ TK perform a fusion of classical, jazz, hiphop, blues and R&B, while smashing musical stereotypes. Hailing from Florida, the group has performed at such places as Showtime at the Apollo and the Billboard Music Awards. Chandler Center for the Arts

250 N. Arizona Avenue, Chandler 480.782.2680 chandlercenter.org

Carousel JANUARY 15 THROUGH FEBRUARY 14 Featuring well-known show tunes and the personal favorite of creators Rodgers & Hammerstein, this Tony Award-winning play is centered on a RIVERDANCE: THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY WORLD TOUR JANUARY 12-15

JANUARY 16 THROUGH JUNE 5

Scottsdale

202

Tempe

Mesa 202 Gilbert 202

202

Chandler 202

“A must see!” — Broadway World

MAR 31 - APR 6, 2016 Orpheum Theatre

203 West Adams St., Phoenix, AZ 85003

800.880.0188 ShenYun.com/Phoenix WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

PHOTO COURTESY OF ENDRE BALOGH/ENDRESART.COM

BLACK VIOLIN JANUARY 15

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

carnival barker named Billy and his pregnant wife. After taking his own life, Billy is allowed to return to Earth for one day to witness the lives of his wife and daughter. Arizona Broadway Theatre 7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria 623.776.8400 azbroadway.org

Stradivarius: Origins and Legacy of the Greatest Violin Maker JANUARY 16 THROUGH JUNE 5 The latest exhibit at the MIM offers guests the opportunity to see rate, one-of-a-kind treasures, valued at millions of dollars. In conjunction with the Museo del Violino and The Friends of Stradivari, timeless masterpieces will be on view. Discover the history of the violin, see precious artifacts, as well as tools and designs from Stradivari’s workshop. Musical Instrument Museum 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix 480.478.6000, themim.org

TIMBER! A Production of Cirque Alfonse

NELSON ILLUSIONS FEBRUARY 5 AND 6

JANUARY 17 One of the most unique acrobatic experiences you will ever see on stage. The performers pull off epic feats of agility and strength, all of which are inspired by early North American lumberjacks. Natural raw materials are used, along with equipment used in forestry. Chandler Center for the Arts 250 N. Arizona Avenue, Chandler 480.782.2680, chandlercenter.org

Calendar Girls JANUARY 20 THROUGH FEBRUARY 7 You have heard of and probably watched the movie, now see it on stage! This true story is based on a group of British women who, in an effort to raise money for a good cause, decide to pose nude for a calendar. Join in on this hilarious look at true-life events. Phoenix Theatre, 100 E. McDowell Road, Phoenix, 602.254.2151 phoenixtheatre.com TIMBER! A PRODUCTION OF CIRQUE ALFONSE JANUARY 17

JANUARY 20-FEBRUARY 7

Participating Locations Eat Breakfast Here San Tan Brewing Co.

Support The Arts In Chandler! Restaurants help by donating a percentage of their proceeds to the Chandler Center for the Arts on that day. You help by eating at one or more of the participating restaurants. Funds from Eat Your Art Out Chandler will go to support various programs at the Center including the Free Summer Concert Series and the Connecting Kidz programs. For more information: www.ChandlerCenter.org/EAT

NEWS TALK

Tuesday, February 23th, 2016

Eat Lunch Here Crust - Chandler Dilly’s Deli · Floridino’s The Living Room Nando’s Mexican Cafe Rock Lobster · San Tan Brewing Co. Serrano’s Mexican Food Stone + Vine Urban Italian Eat Dinner Here Bourbon Jack’s Bar & Grill CHoP Chandler · Dilly’s Deli Earnest · Floridino’s The Living Room Nando’s Mexican Cafe Rock Lobster Serrano’s Mexican Food

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Georges Bizet CARNIVAL OF ILLUSION JANUARY 23

“A voice of supple warmth.” – San Francisco Chronicle

New Shanghai Circus JANUARY 22 This show features choreography, lighting, scenery and music. The renowned troupe of acrobats, aerialists and athletes has delighted audiences around the globe and brings its cultural show to the East Valley. This is a great way to experience the world, without leaving the neighborhood! Queen Creek Performing Arts Center, 22149 E. Ocotillo Road, Queen Creek 480.987.SHOW (7469) qcpac.com

Carnival of Illusion

Carmen, the most famous Gypsy seductress in all of opera, ensnares countless men throughout Spain. When the dutiful soldier Don José falls prey to her charms, all hell breaks loose in this classic story of adoration and jealousy, pageantry and rage.

Daniela Mack as CAR MEN

Symphony hall

February 5 & 6 at 7:30 pm February 7 at 2:00 pm

TICK STAR ETS T AT

$25

w w w. a z o p e r a . o r g

6 02-26 6 -74 6 4

Presented By

S E A S O N

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PHX METRO

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See Jane Sing! With Jane Lynch JANUARY 23 While Jane Lynch may most recently be known as the sarcastic coach from Fox’s hit television show Glee, her career is much more diverse. From starring in Christopher Guest films, to winning Emmy and Golden Globe

awards, Lynch’s comedic style has gained her acclaim. In Scottsdale, she will perform a cabaret-style show. Don’t miss this opportunity to see this star close to home. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts 7380 E. Second Street, Scottsdale 480.499.TKTS (8587) scottsdaleperformingarts.org

Under the Streetlamp JANUARY 23 AND 24 Motown and rock ‘n’ roll fans unite! Under the Streetlamp will perform favorites from such groups as The Drifters, The Beach Boys and The Beatles. The highlight of the show promises to be the salute to their mentor Frankie Valli. Expect tight harmonies and slick dance moves. Del E. Webb Center for the Performing Arts 1090 S. Vulture Mine Road, Wickenburg 928.684.6624 dewpac.org

Offi ci al Pi ano

2015

Chocolate

Official Ho t e l

JANUARY 23 Roland Sarlot and Susan Eyed perform an evening of “Magic, Mystery and Oooh La La.” Their show is held in an intimate venue and is performed in the traditional parlor style. Join them for Arizona’s longestrunning theater show. Be prepared to be amazed! Tempe Center for the Arts 700 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe 480.359.SHOW carnivalofillusion.com

SEE JANE SING! WITH JANE LYNCH JANUARY 23

PHX METRO » DECEMBER 2015

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PERÔ, OR THE MYSTERIES OF THE NIGHT JANUARY 24 THROUGH FEBRUARY 7

Perô, Or the Mysteries of the Night JANUARY 24 THROUGH FEBRUARY 7 This production is an international collaboration with the artistic team from Speeltheatre Holland and the creative folks here in our backyard at Childsplay. This is a beautiful fairytale with puppets, music and magic. Narrated by the sun and the moon, the story is about love triumphing with a little faith. Presented by Childsplay Tempe Center for the Arts 700 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe 480.350.2822, childsplayaz.org

Nelson Illusions FEBRUARY 5 AND 6 Nelson Illusions performs the largest touring illusion show in the United States. The show features the largest illusion ever seen. The 21-footlong Drill of Death goes through a performer and lifts her 18 feet in the air. With four Master Magicians and 30,000 pounds of equipment, this show is unlike any other. Higley Center for the Performing Arts, 4132 E. Pecos Road, Gilbert 480.279.7194, higleyarts.org

UNDER THE STREETLAMP JANUARY 23 AND 24

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YOU GOTTA HAVE ART

I — 24th Annual — Saturday, January 9th from 10am-5pm Sunday, January 10th from 10am-4pm e Tells a Story

This year’s theme: Every Pictur

Artist Demonstration

Entertainment

Shopping

A distinctive arts and cultural experience in historic Litchfield Park

$10 per person entry • 12 & Under Free $5 per person for active military and students with ID

litchfieldparkgathering.com 623-935-9040

n an unprecedented event for the award-winning producer of juried fine art and wine festivals in Arizona, Thunderbird Artists will host its inaugural Sculpture & Wine Festival in Fountain Hills Friday, Jan. 15, through Sunday, Jan. 17. The juried show will feature more than 60 acclaimed sculptors from around the globe, giving awestruck patrons a chance to view and purchase stunning, diverse pieces comprised of bronze, stone, copper, clay, wood, metal, glass, gourd, steel, found objects and mixed media. The event takes place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day at 16810 E. Avenue of the Fountains, and a portion of proceeds will benefit International Cancer Advocacy Network (ICAN). Denise Dale, Thunderbird Artists’ vice president, said the January Fountain Hills show will provide a rare chance to meet many of the renowned sculptors in one setting. “Our roster of sculptors will exhibit a breathtaking array of small, medium, lifesized and even monumental sculptures,” she said. “Whether you are seeking to enhance your home décor or you want to begin a sculpture garden, you’ll find a diverse selection of original, high-quality pieces to choose from.” One such artist exhibiting in the show is Fred Krakowiak, a Scottsdale resident who is recognized as a leading wildlife artist, author, safari expert and engaging speaker. It was a photo that Krakowiak found after his mother died that inspired him to paint and sculpt wildlife. “It was a photo of me at age 5, riding an Indian elephant at the Toledo Zoo circus—clutching the elephant’s bridal— no safety rope, no straddle. There were clearly no regulations then,” Krakowiak said. “Little did I realize I was planting a seed into my subconscious to have the opportunities I do today as a wildlife artist and guide.” A renowned painter, he began working in bronze in 2000. “For me, a sculpture is the creation of a threedimensional object originating within my soul with such passion toward a subject that it results in a bronze that will express those emotional feelings when you view

and especially touch it forever,” he said. His first safari was in 2004 and his love of wildlife inspired his Zimbabwe guide to offer him a position as an apprentice guide. He accepted and has traveled there, guiding safaris in Zimbabwe, Rwanda, and South Africa. For the January show, Krakowiak will feature bronzes that originate from inspirations and experiences he has had over the past decade in Africa. “I was fortunate to have shared time the past several years in Somalisa, with Cecil the Lion, who was murdered in Zimbabwe. As a dedication to everyone who was touched by him, I will unveil a bronze at the show of this spectacular and special lion,” he said. Wine tasting tickets at the January sculpture show cost $10, which provides a souvenir wine glass and six tasting tickets. Tastings require one, two or three tickets depending on the wine characteristics and quality. Additional wine tickets are $1.

Sculpture & Wine Festival in Fountain Hills 16810 E. Avenue of the Fountains, 480.837.5637, thunderbirdartists.com, Friday, January 15, through Sunday, January, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., $3 adults, free for children 18 and younger

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January 2016 1-3 15 17 23

Zoppé-An Italian Family Circus Times Vary Black Violin 7:30pm TIMBER! A Production of Cirque Alfonse! 7pm Deana Martin Honoring Dean Martin 7:30pm & Frank Sinatra 29 Moscow Festival Ballet presents Don Quixote 7:30pm 30 Fiesta Mexico-Americana with Los Lobos 7:30pm

February 2016

6 The Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra 12 Tap Factory 14 The Summit The Manhattan Transfer meets Take 6 20 Frankie Avalon 21 Lee Ann Womack 27 Steppin’ Out LIVE with Ben Vereen & Trio

7:30pm 7:30pm 7pm 7:30pm 7pm 7:30pm

March 2016

4 The Second City Fully Loaded 7:30pm 5 Vicki Lawrence & Mama: 7:30pm A Two Woman Show 8-13 Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding Times Vary 18 Rita Rudner 7:30pm 25 Flamenco Kings starring Los Vivancos 7:30pm

Great Valentine’s Gift!

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April 2016

1 The von Trapps

7:30pm

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THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

IN THE

SEATS Human Nature brings its love of Motown to Symphony Hall

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski » The Entertainer!

ndrew Tierney and his brother, Mike, began their love affair with music as children growing up in Australia. But it wasn’t until they and their friends were introduced to Motown music that it turned into an all-out lifelong relationship. The Tierneys along with friends Toby Allen and Phil Burton have dedicated most of their career to performing the Detroit-born music as Human Nature. “When we started in high school, we weren’t familiar with Motown at all,” Andrew Tierney says. “We looked at the history of vocal groups and we were told by our mentor to check out Motown acts like the Four Tops and the Temptations. It was the groups in Motown that stood out to us as something we were just, I guess, inspired by. The sound they made, the way they performed, the choreography. This was our introduction to Motown. We studied the whole catalog.” Now Human Nature is one of Australia’s top acts and has released nine records, five of which went to No. 1 there. The quartet even piqued the interest of Motown legend Smokey Robinson, who recorded “Get Ready” with the four guys and landed Human Nature its gig in Las Vegas. A part of it research, Human Nature visited Hitsville U.S.A. in Detroit in between the release of its first album and the recording of the second. “We were living in Australia still and we made our first Motown record and we were making a follow up to that,” says

Tierney, whose group now calls Las Vegas its homebase. “We wanted to grow up knowing the legacy of Motown and had never been. We should pay homage and go to Hitsville. We spent some time there. Martha Reeves took us through Hitsville and showed us what was going on in the room. It was amazing that so much creativity came out of a humble little house.” It even amazes some of Human Nature’s fans, some of whom say they think they’re not big fans of Motown. “Everyone loves the music—even if they don’t know it,” says Tierney of Motown music. “They’ll hear a song, start tapping their feet and say, ‘I love that song.’ “We had a career of our own doing original songs and covering other music sounds as well. To add Motown to our catalog of music is a blessing. To do something we do well and be known for it is something we really treasure.” Now Arizona audiences can treasure it as well when Human Nature makes its Grand Canyon State debut with the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra Friday, January 15, Saturday, January 16, and Wednesday, January 27, at Symphony Hall. “We were asked by the Phoenix Symphony to guest with them and we jumped at the chance,” he says “They had seen our show in Vegas and we told them about performing with orchestras before and so it just kind of made a lot of sense. “Playing with the Phoenix Symphony is going to be amazing. We’ve been lucky enough to perform with the symphony in Australia. This is the first

time in the States. We’re really excited about it.” During its show, Human Nature will perform Motown songs and touch on other tracks from the 1950s and 1960s. “We’re going to go in and out and around of Motown and have some fun,” Tierney says. Outside of Motown, Human Nature has had the opportunity to perform with Sir George Martin, The Beatles’ original producer. “We did a song just with him and the orchestra at the time,” Tierney says. “He said, ‘I’d like to introduce this group called Human Nature. And you know I’ve worked with another great group as well—and they didn’t do too bad with the vocals. I’m hoping Human Nature will keep the legacy alive.’ “It was fun that he put that challenge down to us. To sing Beatles songs to the man who produced the records and had such an insight to the musicality to it was really amazing.” But it’s Motown music that’s Human Nature’s niche. “The music in Motown is timeless,” he says. “We’re happy to be a small part in keeping alive the music that was created by Hitsville back in the day.”

Human Nature

Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second Street, Phoenix, 602.262.6225, phoenixsymphony.org, 7:30 p.m. Friday, January 15, and Saturday, January 16, and 2 p.m. Wednesday, January 27, starts at $18

WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

BREAKING ‘STEREOTYPES’ Black Violin blends hip-hop and classical in new album

Damir Lolic » The Entertainer!

ong before the duo graced the Broadway stage, Black Violin’s classically trained aficionados, violist Wil Baptiste and violinist Kev Marcus, stumbled upon orchestra class. “I wanted to play the saxophone, but they put me in the wrong class,” reveals Baptiste during a recent phone interview. “Kev’s mom enrolled him in a musical program over the summer and violin class was the only one with spots available.” After meeting in high school, the two Florida-based musicians forged an unmatched chemistry by simply taking what they were given and establishing what pundits are calling “genre-busting” music. Heavily influenced by jazz, bluegrass and funk, but equally adroit in Mozart and Beethoven, Black Violin set out to do something many wouldn’t dare. WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

“Growing up in hip hop and just so happened to play the violin, we realized that jazz and the blues helped cultivate the urban culture so it was a natural for us to fuse it all,” he says. Their penchant for doing something different has led them to earn the Legend title at the famed Apollo Theatre in New York. By March 2009, only a year after the release of its debut album, Black Violin was on Broadway performing pop covers by Akon, Lady Gaga and The Fugees. Since then, the duo has had the opportunity to work with major leaguers like Aerosmith, Stevie Nicks and Tom Petty. Receiving worldwide acclaim captivating audiences, Baptiste says he feels as though they’ve come a long way since the debut of their 2008 self-titled album. “We’ve grown tremendously and touring has played a large part in that process,” he said. “Coming up as two black guys playing the violin in the club

it looked insane. Sometimes people were jiving and sometimes they didn’t know what to think, but either way we kept moving and improving.” At the root of Black Violin’s clover is an undying work ethic. The band played 160 shows alone last year. Touring the country to gain notoriety for their latest project titled “Stereotypes,” the maestros are joined on stage by their longtime leader of ceremonies DJ TK, who plays the role of hype man in addition to supplying the duo with a rhythm and beat. The final ingredient is Baptiste providing vocals to the show that truly completes the exclusive atmosphere. Being socially conscious musicians, the duo’s message is deeper than instrumentals, Baptiste explains. “Nowadays with all the craziness going on, everybody needs a common ground and I feel like we bring that,” he says. “Something kind of like baseball in

the ‘70s in a sense that all races can come together to root for one city or team.” Baptiste wants people to leave Black Violin shows feeling more optimistic and he encourages fans to interact during the spectacle. “When you come to a Black Violin concert, we want you to leave all the issues of the world behind and have a great time,” he said. “We encourage the fans to yell out, scream out—whatever you’re feeling just express it.”

Black Violin

Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Avenue, Chandler, 480.782.2680, chandlercenter.org, Friday, January 15, 7:30 p.m., $24 to $38

Now in ou 28th Y r ear! is proud to present:

MESA EXPO Wednesday, Jan. 27th, 2016

SUN CITY EXPO Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2016

9am-1pm | Parking and Admission Free

9am-1pm | Admission Free

Mesa Convention Center

Sundial Recreation Center

201 N. Center Street • Mesa, AZ 85201 Lots of Prizes and Giveaways!

14801 North 103rd Ave., Sun City, AZ 85351 Lots of Prizes and Giveaways!

Hosted by Sean Hoy | Entertainment by:

Also sponsored by:

Arroyo Gardens

Independent & Assisted Living

(480) 348-0343 • (800) 959-1566 • f: (480) 348-2109 • www.lovinlifeafter50.com/expo

COMING

ATTRACTIONS “Anomalisa”

“45 Years”

R - 90 MINUTES

David Thewlis voices a man who, crippled by the mundanity of his life, experiences something out of the ordinary. Additional voice talents include Jennifer Jason Leigh and Tom Noonan. Opens January 15.

R - 93 MINUTES

Tom Courtenay plays a man who receives a letter one week before he and his wife’s (Charlotte Rampling) 45th wedding anniversary. The letter states that the body of his first love has been discovered, frozen and preserved in the icy glaciers of the Swiss Alps. By the time the party is upon them five days later, there may not be a marriage left to celebrate. Opens January 22.

“Diablo”

“Mojave”

R - 90 MINUTES

Scott Eastwood plays a young Civil War veteran who wakes up to find his beautiful wife kidnapped by a band of ruthless bandits. With killers around every corner, the lines begin to blur between good and bad. As a final gunfight looms, he is asked to risk it all to save the woman he loves. Opens January 8.

“The Revenant” R - 156 MINUTES

Leonardo DiCaprio plays a legendary explorer who, in an expedition of the uncharted American wilderness, is brutally attacked by a bear and left for dead by members of his own hunting team. In a quest to survive, he endures unimaginable grief as well as the betrayal of his confidant (Tom Hardy). Guided by sheer will and the love of his family, he must navigate a vicious winter in a relentless pursuit to live and find redemption. Opens January 8.

R - 93 MINUTES

Garrett Hedlund plays a violent artist who has an ominous encounter in the desert with a homicidal, chameleonlike drifter (Oscar Isaac) who follows him back to his privileged L.A. home life and holds a dark secret over his head. He must come to terms with his own insecurities and self-doubt to protect himself and his family and go head-to-head with his nemesis. Opens January 22.

“Moonwalkers” R - 107 MINUTES

Ron Perlman plays an unstable CIA agent who, after failing to locate the legendary Stanley Kubrick, must instead team up with a seedy rock band manager (Rupert Grint) to develop the biggest con of all time— staging the moon landing. Opens January 15.

“Lamb” NR - 96 MINUTES

Ross Partridge plays a man who meets a young girl (Oona Laurence) in a parking lot and attempts to help her avoid a bleak destiny by initiating her into the beauty of the outside world. The journey shakes them in ways neither expects. Opens January 15.

“Exposed” R - 102 MINUTES

Keanu Reeves plays a detective who starts to investigate his partner’s shocking death and uncovers disturbing evidence of police corruption and a dangerous secret involving an unlikely young woman. Opens January 22.

For more movie reviews, in-depth celebrity interviews and behind-the-scenes insights, tune in to breakthrough entertainment 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturdays on KPHX 1480 AM and BreakRadioShow.com. Email film critic Joseph J. Airdo at joseph.airdo@gmail.com.

WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

THE CRITIC

LIGHTS » CAMERA » ACTION » SCREEN » ENCHANT » TRANSPORT

WHAT WAS THE BEST

MOVIE OF 2015?

Our critics reveal their favorite films of the year! Visit EntertainerMag.com to see what other movies made each of their Top 10 lists. JOSEPH’S MOVIE OF THE YEAR:

“Jurassic World”

“Jurassic World” is easily this year’s best movie, boasting the absolutely perfect blend of nostalgia and new. Fans of 1993’s “Jurassic Park” were completely enamored with the blockbuster sequel as director Colin Trevorrow honored their memories with subtle references while also making their dreams of a fully functioning dinosaur theme park come true in such a way that was even more impressive than they imagined. And everyone—including newcomers who have never known a time before larger-than-life special effects—were blown away by the thrilling action that rejuvenated the motion picture industry’s power to affect audiences to the degree that they surrender to their senses and suspend all disbelief. RANDY’S MOVIE OF THE YEAR:

“Tangerine”

Director Sean Baker’s film was shot on three iPhone 5s smartphones and cost around $100,000 to produce. The two main stars were found at an LGBT center in Los Angeles, and had no major acting experience. Despite this, the story about a transgendered prostitute and her friend roaming the streets of Hollywood on Christmas Eve is hilariously funny, perfectly acted and surprisingly heartwarming. Kitana Kiki Rodriguez and Mya Taylor the most genuine and memorable performances of the year...(or ever, for that matter). Baker and crew captured a gritty, yet real look at the side of Hollywood that most overlook.

Our film writers grade what’s in theaters Movie

Joseph

Randy

“Anomalisa”

“The Big Short”

“Spotlight”

The title refers to a team of investigative reporters at the Boston Globe who, in the early 2000s, uncovered evidence both that priestly child abuse was far more widespread than was previously understood, and that the city’s Archdiocese had consciously and systematically covered it up. Like several of this year’s best movies, this drama directed and co-written by Thomas McCarthy has depressing and infuriating subject matter. But it also has a superb ensemble cast led by Michael Keaton, Mark Ruffalo, Rachel McAdams, Billy Crudup, Stanley Tucci and Liev Schreiber, and a low-key tension that leads to potent emotional payoffs.

ABOUT THE FILM WRITERS

M.V. A

“By the Sea”

“Carol”

“Concussion”

“Creed”

“Daddy’s Home”

“The Danish Girl”

“Don Verdean”

“The Good Dinosaur”

“The Hateful Eight”

“The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 2”

“In the Heart of the Sea”

“Joy”

“Krampus”

“Legend”

“Macbeth”

M.V.’S MOVIE OF THE YEAR:

JOSEPH J. AIRDO is a film critic, producer and on-air personality for “Breakthrough Entertainment,” a talk radio show airing 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturdays on KPHX 1480 AM and BreakRadioShow.com, which shines a spotlight on the practical perspectives of the topics and themes explored in movies. He has a pet duck named Frozen who is as opinionated about movies as he is. Email him at joseph.airdo@gmail.com.

The Report Card

“The Night Before”

“The Revenant”

“The Ridiculous Six”

“Secret in Their Eyes” “Star Wars: The Force Awakens”

C C

“Victor Frankenstein” “Youth”

RANDY MONTGOMERY is a Los Angeles-based film critic who lived in, and still loves, Arizona. Living within walking distance of multiple major studios is a dream come true for this longtime movie buff. While not sitting in the dark and munching on popcorn with extra butter, you can find him riding roller coasters and enjoying the arts. Email him at randymwriter@yahoo.com.

A C

M.V. MOORHEAD has won five first-place Arizona

Press Club awards for criticism. His reviews and other writings appear in Wrangler News (wranglernews. com), Phoenix Magazine and on The Robot’s Voice (therobotsvoice.com) as well as his own blog, Less Hat, Moorhead (mvmoorhead. blogspot.com). A native of Pennsylvania, he lives in Phoenix with his wife, kid and three Chihuahuas with five eyeballs between them. Email him at mvmoorhead@cox.net. WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

THE DINER

EAT » EXPERIENCE » INDULGE » SAVOR » DEVOUR » NOSH

Happy Hour Guide 66 Detroit Coney Grill 64 Diner Insider 58

THE BEST FOOD EVENTS IN

JANUARY Jasmine Kemper » The Entertainer!

Arizona Vegetarian Food Festival JANUARY 9 AND 10 The Arizona Vegetarian Food Festival is back for another year of foodie fun! Learn from plant-based doctors, authors, yoga instructors and more about the vegetarian and vegan lifestyle. Guests can visit natural and sustainable vendors, sample plenty of food, sip on some vegan alcohol and relax with yoga. Learn about this healthy lifestyle at this food-filled fest. Scottsdale Civic Center Amphitheater, 3939 N. Drinkwater Boulevard, Scottsdale, azvegfoodfest.com, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., $20 general, $50 VIP

Taste of the Championship JANUARY 10 Get a taste of cuisine from around the country at the Taste

fine dining with some of the best chefs in town during this exciting collaboration. Binkley’s Restaurant, 6920 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek, 480.437.1072, binkleysrestaurantgroup.com, 6:30 p.m., $98

Pancakes & Booze Art Show of the Championship event. Food Network Chef Beau MacMillan will be headlining the event along with many other Arizona chefs. Additionally, five chefs from the Playoff Semifinal host cities will be there as well. The proceeds from this delicious event will go to the College Football Playoff Foundation and local food banks. Phoenix Convention Center, South Ballroom, 100 N. Third Street, Phoenix, 602.262.6225, collegefootballplayoff.com, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., $250

Binkley’s Dinner JANUARY 14 Chef Binkley and Chef Vincent Guerithault are teaming up to bring guests an exquisite dinner to remember. Dine on delicious hors d’oeuvres, six tasty courses and optional wine pairings at Binkley’s Restaurant. Experience a night of

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JANUARY 15 Stuff your face with all-you-can-eat pancakes at the Phoenix Pancakes & Booze Art Show. Over 50 of Phoenix’s underground artists will come together to showcase their fantastic art paired with delicious flapjacks and brews all night long. Enjoy live body painting, music, visual and audio performances and a free pancake bar with toppings like blueberries, strawberries, bananas and more. What better way to start your weekend than with food, booze and plenty of art! The Duce, 525 S. Central Avenue, Phoenix, 602.866.3823, pancakesandbooze.com, 8 p.m. to 2 a.m., $5

Chocolate and Wine Experience JANUARY 22 Indulge in the finer things in life at the Chocolate and Wine Experience. Guests will learn about how wine

BREAKFAST!

and chocolate are made while listening to the sweet sounds of Sassy and the Sneak Attack at the Musical Instrument Museum. Other fun activities include painting with chocolate, etching a customized wine glass, touring museum exhibits and snapping a picture at the Willy Wonka-themed photo booth. Spend the evening treating your taste buds to all things sweet. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix, 480.945.7193, mim.org, 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m., $60 adv, $70 doe

Street Eats Food Truck Festival JANUARY 30 AND 31 The best Valley food trucks are coming together for the Street Eats Food Truck Festival! There will be live music from the School of Rock, cooking demos from local chefs, a kid’s zone, eating contests and plenty of delicious meals on wheels. Grab VIP tickets for six beverages, four food tokens, private restrooms and access to the VIP lounge. Get ready for some delicious eats from the coolest mobile kitchens around. Salt River Fields, 7555 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, 480.270.5000, streeteatsaz.com, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., $12 general, $50 VIP

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here’s nothing more satisfying than a warm cup of coffee on these chilly January mornings. Next time you’re craving some hot java, you can make your way to The Refuge Café in the Melrose District, where each cup of coffee helps someone in need. The sales made at The Refuge go toward supporting programs for refugees, sex-trafficking survivors, veterans, homeless, foster children and more with the help of Catholic Charities Community Services. They also sell hand-crafted art made by local refugees in the café such as handmade purses, sculptures, jewelry and more. A portion of the proceeds from these items also benefit those in need. While you’re giving back to others, don’t forget to check out some of their delicious menu items like their global grilled cheese or a variety of tapas. They also have their own coffee blend, Café Esperanza, made from Arabica beans from Central and South America. Take refuge at The Refuge Café and enjoy free Wi-Fi, live music on the patio, beer, wine and, of course, a good cup of Joe.

The Refuge Café

The Refuge Café, 4727 N. Seventh Avenue, Phoenix, 602.265.1725, therefugeaz.com

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Dillon’s maintains neighborhood feel with new Pleasant Harbor location Christina Fuoco-Karasinski » The Entertainer!

hen George Valverde and Rich Dillon opened their first Dillon’s KC Barbecue restaurant in 1999 on Thunderbird Road in Peoria, they wanted to provide more than awardwinning meals. The duo yearned to give patrons a destination with a festive, family atmosphere. Valverde and Dillon have achieved that with locations in Peoria, Glendale and Litchfield Park. On January 1, the Dillon’s location at Pleasant Harbor was

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slated to open, replacing the eatery on Scorpion Bay. “It’s so much larger,” says Keli Kozup, the social media marketing manager. “There are garage doors that open and close. If the weather’s nice, we can open them.” Formerly the Waterfront Bar and Grill, Dillon’s Bayou holds 255 people, while Scorpion Bay’s capacity was about 150. Kozup says the new location is “gorgeous.” “The whole left side and whole front is pure glass,” she says. “All you see is the water. Each location is so different. We always say we have four destination locations.” The Glendale restaurant boasts a patriot room that is dedicated to the military. Lining the walls are plaques and photos, some of which are given to the restaurant by veterans. The Thunderbird eatery is homey, with rabbits and tortoises out back for diners to see. The Litchfield Park restaurant is

at the Wildlife World Zoo and the patio overlooks the bright coral flamingos. It also boasts a 60,000-gallon shark tank and an albino alligator. Sure, they’re beautiful destinations, but the key is the food that has been named “best barbecue” in town by local readers’ polls. The centerpiece of the menu are the brontosaurus beef ribs. “That’s the wow factor,” Kozup says. “They’re huge. The burnt ends are amazing, too. We have options if someone isn’t a barbecue person. We have some great salads. I love the prickly peach salad with candied cranberries and peaches and a prickly pear vinaigrette. As for Dillon’s Bayou, the menu will mimic the former Scorpion Bay location—but it will evolve. “The Scorpion Bay menu was missing some things like the mashed potatoes,” she says. “The ribs were only a specialty item now and then because the kitchen was so small. “We believe that once we get into the rhythm of things, we’ll be able to add more. Our goal is to have the full Dillon’s menu up there.”

Kozup admits that the walk from the parking lot is a little longer than the Scorpion Bay stroll. But there are golf carts and shuttles on busy weekends to aid visitors. Adhering to the Dillon’s philosophy, Valverde and Dillon are sticking with the neighborhood feel at Pleasant Harbor. That’s just one of the ways in which the family-owned company wants to make its patrons comfortable. “You wouldn’t think Pleasant Harbor and Scorpion Bay are in a neighborhood environment,” she says. “It really is because you have all the marina people who live out there. You won’t find us on the restaurant blocks by the malls. “We’re always in neighborhoods and that’s the feeling we like. The lake location is gorgeous. It’s like you’re going on a mini vacation. I enjoy the peacefulness of it.”

For a complete list of locations, visit dillonsrestaurant.com.

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7210 E. 2ND ST. SCOTTSDALE, AZ 85251 (480) 621-5358

Tokyo Joe’s

This is the place for delicious Japanese eats you can grab in an instant. This hip Asian spot serves up build-your-own noodle bowls and rice bowls, made-to-order sushi, salads and starters. They have fresh ingredients like natural grilled chicken, tofu, salmon, water chestnuts and snap peas, plus gluten-free and vegetarian options. Its newest menu item, the Resolution Bowl, is just 600 calories and has all-natural white chicken, brown rice, a hard-boiled egg, mixed veggies, sweet potato and avocado. Tokyo Joe’s even has multiple locations around the Valley, yum! Tokyo Joe’s, 2131 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, 602.956.2139, tokyojoes.com

Salad and Go

NEW YEAR, NEW DISHES Learn how to eat healthy at area fast-casual restaurants

It’s officially the New Year, which means it’s time for New Year’s resolutions—like eating healthy. With a busy schedule it can be hard to healthy eat on-the-go, but you don’t have to dine at home to stay healthy. There are plenty of fastcasual restaurants in the Valley that serve up fresh, natural and tasty dishes. WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

Healthy salads and fast food don’t usually go together...until now. Salad and Go serves gourmet salads, wraps, soups and smoothies with crisp and tasty vegetables and fruits right to your car window. Chef Daniel Patino, former executive chef at Bourbon Steak Scottsdale, helped create this innovative fast-food idea. With tempting dishes like the Santa Fe Salad and the Kale and Banana Smoothie, you’ll never feel bad coming back for more. Whether you walk up to the window or roll down your window, this salad joint wants to show you that fast food can be healthy and delicious!

Salad and Go, 743 N. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, 480.304.5662, saladandgo.com

D’lish

If you’re on-the-go, D’lish has just what you need. This drive-thru joint offers organic, natural and, when possible, local ingredients at all of their locations. Its Scottsdale and Tempe locations bring you foods like its mouthwatering breakfast Veggie Burrito that includes egg whites, Swiss, portabella, tomato, onion and potato all wrapped up in a sun-dried tomato wrap. You can also grab starters,

burgers, sandwiches, bowls and plenty of freshly made drinks. D’lish strives to be healthy in all aspects of life. They even use earth-friendly products and recycle daily. There’s a lot to love at this healthy drivethru spot.

D’lish, 1135 Apache Boulevard, Tempe, 480.517.1111, dlishdrivethru.com

BLD

BLD has food for any time of the day— breakfast, lunch and dinner (Get it?). It has farm-fresh foods served in an open and friendly restaurant. However, the biggest perk is its drive-thru, where you can order coffees, teas, smoothies and protein shakes in a hurry. If you’re really hungry, you can call ahead and pick up food from its healthy menu right in the drive-thru. Get a taste of dishes like the BLD Benedict, Vegetarian Chipotle Black Bean Burger or a Grilled Salmon Salad without the wait. This is the place to get restaurant quality bites with drive-thru convenience. BLD, 1920 W. Germann Road, Chandler, 480.779.8646, bldchandler.com

Pane Bianco

As part of the multiple Bianco restaurants around the Valley, Pane Bianco came to be in 2005, when owner Chris Bianco decided to open a hot spot for lunch. While there is also a full-service restaurant inside open for lunch and dinner, Pane Bianco has a take away window where you can quickly order delectable foccacia sandwiches, vegetable soups and fresh salads. All the breads are freshly baked in a wood-fired oven and made-to-order. For the freshest products, opt for the market sandwich and receive only the finest local ingredients.

Pane Bianco, 4404 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, 602.234.2100, pizzeriabianco.com

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

Tandoori Times

Indian Bistro

Ethnic Indian Fine Dining Restaurant & Bar “International food brings people close, Tandoori Times brings them closer.”

Belly Dancing every Friday & Saturday, 7:30 pm onwards “Best of Phoenix” Winner • “Readers Choice Award Winner 2014”

Join us for Happy Hour

Daily lunch and dinner specials

Daily • 3pm to 6pm Happy Hour Appetizers $8-$12 $3 Domestic Bottles, $4 Import Bottles $2 -$4 Off Liquor, $7 Martinis

Lunch Daily 11am to 2pm Dinner Sun-Thurs 5pm to 9pm Breakfast Sun 10am to 2pm Dinner Fri -Sat 5pm to 10pm

Private Dining To book private dining events and banquets please contact our banquet manager Shannon Ward at 480-203-2075 or peters.banquets@gmail.com.

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Wish You All A Very Prosperous 2016 LOCATIONS:

SCOTTSDALE 8140 N. Hayden Rd. #H-115 Scottsdale, AZ 85258 480.794.1404

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5070 S. Gilbert Rd., #400 (Located behind the CVS)

Chandler (480) 895-1655 www.creolecajunbistro.com

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SECRET’S IN THE SAUCE

Detroit Coney Grill brings the flavors of Motown to Tempe

Ken Abramczyk » The Entertainer!

ike many native Detroiters, David Najor shares a love of coney dogs. After he moved to the Valley four years ago, he tried them here, but they didn’t taste like the ones he knew and loved in Detroit. “I knew that they were not representative of the Detroit Coney dogs,” Najor says. Najor decided that there was a niche that needed to be filled, so two years ago, he opened the Detroit Coney Grill in Tempe. “I knew I had to do it to represent my hometown,” Najor says. What is so special about a coney, particularly a Detroit coney? “It is like a

sausage, hand-turned, hand-rolled with a natural casing dog, topped with coney sauce (chili), mustard and onions,” Najor says. Najor won’t give away his trade secret about the sauce, but says it is just like the sauce at Lafayette Coney Island, a coney joint in downtown Detroit and a favorite haunt for Detroit sports fans and downtown workers. Najor’s all-beef hot dogs are made in Michigan by the Winter Sausage Manufacturing Co. in Eastpointe. His experience as a grocery store owner in the Detroit area built connections for him in the food industry, namely the sausage manufacturers. Winter Sausage “made them the way we wanted them made,” Najor says. “Michigan has the highest standard

of dogs in the country,” Najor says. “Our dogs are better than anywhere else.” Their natural casings give them a slight “snap” when they are bitten into. That attention to detail in menu items (Najor grinds beef for his burgers and hand cuts Idaho russets for his fries) has helped Najor’s restaurant land at No. 30 on Yelp’s list of Top 100 Places to Eat in America and receive a plaque from Business Insider for the honor in January 2015. The dogs draw Michigan transplants to his restaurant, which comprises about 10 percent of the business, and other snowbirds, along with the locals. “Michigan transplants will help us by word of mouth,” Najor says. The delightful Detroit Coney

costs $3.95. It is served in a basket, is slathered with the coney sauce, two thin streams of mustard and covered with chopped onions. The bite of the onions, accent of mustard and chili-spiced sauce complement the snappy dog. Beef is ground daily to create burgers, which range in price between $2.95 and $6.95. Najor serves a Greek salad with a real Greek vinaigrette (“our recipe,” Najor says), along with other salad variations in the $5.95 to $7.95 range. Pita variations include gyro, chicken, Greek, Philly cheese steak and veggie for $5.95 and $6.95. Former Detroiters will recognize their hometown favorites: Better Made Potato Chips, Faygo “pop” (OK, it’s “soda”) and Vernors ginger ale conjure revered memories of Detroit’s food industry. Najor opened a second location in downtown Phoenix seven months ago. He is looking to expand in North Scottsdale.

Detroit Coney Grill

930 W. Broadway Rd. (just west of Hardy Drive), Tempe 85282, 480.219.7430 detroitconeygrill.com

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HAPPY HOUR GUIDE Blasted Barley

Hard Rock Café

El Chorro

Brat Haus

Hungry Monk

Rehab Burger Therapy

Cold Beer & Cheeseburgers

Lucky Strike Bowling

Holy Spirits Scottsdale

Luxe Lounge

Scottsdale Beer Company

404 S. Mill Avenue, Suite 101, Tempe Monday through Friday, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday 9 p.m. to close $3 wells, wines and select drafts and half off select food items

3 S. Second Street, Phoenix Monday through Friday, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. $3.50 domestic bottle and draft, $4.50 select craft beer, $5 premium well, house wine and double shot

5550 E. Lincoln Drive, Paradise Valley Monday through Saturday 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. $3 glass of house wine and domestic bottled beer and $5 El Chorro Margaritas and well drinks

of Fireball 3622 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale Monday through Friday, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. $2 off all drafts, $1 off bottles, cans, liquor and wine and food specials

4222 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale 20831 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 117, Scottsdale Monday through Friday, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. $3 domestic pints, $4 local pints, domestic aluminum bottles and premium well drinks, $5 house wines

1760 W. Chandler Boulevard, Chandler Daily 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. $1 off all alcohol, but ask about daily specials! For example, Wednesday is $3 pints of craft beer all day!

50 W. Jefferson Street, #240, Phoenix Daily 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. $2 domestic drafts, $3 craft/import drafts and well drinks, $4 premium cocktails, house wine

6922 E. Main Street, Scottsdale Daily 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. $1 off all beers and $2 off all wines

16000 N. Maricopa Road, Maricopa Monday through Friday 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and all day Sunday $3 well drinks, house wines and 16 oz. domestic drafts

Creole Cajun Bistro

The Mission at Minder Binder

Dirty Dogg Saloon

OHSO Brewery

10409 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale Monday through Friday, 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. $1 off domestic beers, well drinks and call

7318 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. $4 well drinks, $5 house wines and $7 specialty cocktails

and food specials

Craft 64

5070 S. Gilbert Road, Suite 400, Chandler Monday through Friday 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. $1 off all wines by the glass, $2 off all signature drinks and $1 off all appetizers

7210 E. 2nd Street, Scottsdale Daily, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 11 a.m. to close on Thursdays $1 Off all party starter appetizers, $1.50 PBRs, Domestic Pints $2.50, Premium Pints $3.50, $1 off shots, wines by glass and specialty drinks

715 S. McClintock Drive, Tempe Daily 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. $1 off all alcohol

4900 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix

OHSO Distillery

15681 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. $6 wines by the glass, specialty cocktails and pitcher of Arizona/OHSO beer

8608 E. Shea Boulevard, Scottsdale Monday through Friday, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. $1 off all Scottsdale Beer Company beers, well drinks, wines by the glass and food specials

Stockyards Steakhouse

5009 E. Washington Street, #115, Phoenix Monday through Friday, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. $2 off draft beer and Saloon Snacks, $3 domestic bottles, $4 well drinks and $5 house wine with complimentary tenderloin sliders

Tandoori Times

Tandoori Times Indian Bistro

8140 N. Hayden Road, Suite H-115, Scottsdale 5626 W. Bell Road, A-103, Glendale Tuesday through Sunday, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. $1 off wine and liquor, $2 off all beer and happy hour appetizers from $3.99

Duke’s Sports Bar & Grill

Old Town Tavern

Tutti Santi

EVO

Park Place Bar & Grill

Uncle Bear’s Grill & Tap

Gallagher’s Sports Grill

Peter’s

7607 E. McDowell, Scottsdale Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. $3.50 domestic drafts and bottles, $5.25 house wines and $8.99 domestic pitchers

4175 N. Goldwater Boulevard, Scottsdale Daily 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. $3 beers, $4 well drinks, $5 wines and $6 cocktails

Five locations across the Valley Daily 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. to midnight $2.75 well drinks, $3.25 domestic drafts, $3.50 house wine and several food specials

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7320 E. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale Daily 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Bucket of beers (five beers for two people): $12 domestic, $16 Mexican imports, $20 premium

7373 E. Scottsdale Mall, #6, Scottsdale Tuesday through Sunday, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. See a full list of specials at www.peterscuisineaz.com.

8320 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale Monday through Friday, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Wine and Champagne are $5 and appetizers are $6

6339 E. Greenway Road, Suite 108, Scottsdale Monday through Friday, 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Select beers $3, well drinks $3 and select glasses of wine $5

9053 E. Baseline Road, Mesa, 2115 E. Rittenhouse Road, Queen Creek; Brewery: 4921 E. Ray Road, Phoenix Monday through Friday, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.; Sunday through Thursday, 10 p.m. to close $3.50 Uncle Bears craft pints, domestic bottles, wells & house margs, $4.50 22 oz. Uncle Bears crafts, guest craft pints, Deep Eddy cocktails & house wine, $5.50 22 oz. guest crafts & sangria

Wasted Grain

7295 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale Monday through Friday, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. $5 small plates and The Drink Exchange-prices vary based on supply and demand

Coming Next Month!

The “Beer Glorious Beer” Issue

AZ Beer Week Special Coverage! Bars, Restaurants, Brands! Editorial features, Event listings!

TO BE INCLUDED, CALL (602) 405-2630

A FEASTFOR EYES AND PALATE Teppanyaki lives on in the eyes of juggling chefs

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Kenneth LaFave » The Entertainer!

t may be the original dinner theater. Teppanyaki—which simply means “grilled on an iron plate”—is the Japanese method of flashcooking cut-up pieces of meat and vegetables on a very hot, flat metal surface. It is also a wonder to behold. “A-YA!” a teppanyaki chef yells, and flips a glistening cleaver in the air. As it falls, he grabs the handle with one hand, then uses the cleaver and a silvery-sharp knife in his other hand to beat out a syncopated rhythm on the edge of the griddle. Like a snare drummer closing a roll, the chef brings the strokes of cleaver and knife closer and closer together until they meet and then—up go cleaver and knife once more, in a juggler’s circle, landing at last back in the chef ’s hands. It’s all part of a typical evening at Sapporo on North Scottsdale Road. Sapporo has 10 teppanyaki tables, including two in a private room for large parties. Each table comfortably seats eight diners, and the demand is such that the restaurant has to schedule guests in twohour shifts throughout the evening. “We actually have a higher demand for our teppanyaki than for our Pacific Rim dining,” says Mike McBrian, Sapporo’s general manager. On a recent Wednesday night, McBrian took 62 reservations for standard dining and 111 for teppanyaki. A typical Saturday night finds between 190 and 230 teppanyaki lovers at Sapporo. That’s pretty surprising, seeing as teppanyaki was hugely popular about 30 years ago, but has since been eclipsed by the rage for sushi. Part of the cloggedclientele phenomenon at Sapporo and at other Valley teppanyaki destinations may simply be that there are fewer of them than before. In the 1980s, Benihana—the original teppanyaki chain in the United States—was everywhere. Today, Benihana is down to two Valley restaurants, while its sushi-only franchise, RA Sushi, has locations throughout the Phoenix area. Teppanyaki remains a popular feature at Mesa’s Got Sushi restaurant. Got Sushi features its namesake cuisine, headed by a list of unique rolls created by Ki Lee, the restaurant’s head sushi chef and co-owner.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

The teppanyaki half of things is overseen by Ki’s wife and the restaurant’s co-owner, Suki Lee. The Lees have owned Got Sushi for 12 and a half years. “Teppanyaki was invented by Japanese soldiers during World War II,” Suki Lee says, delivering a short history lesson. “It started as a bowl-shaped cooking surface that soldiers could cook on and quickly take with them.” It became a stationary, flat iron griddle in the fall of 1945, when restaurateur Shigeji Fujioka, amid the ruins of bombed-out Kobe, Japan, hit on the idea of adapting the soldiers’ cooking method as a way of preparing the strange new food that the West had brought to his country: steak. The typical Japanese diet then consisted of lots of rice and a little fish. Fujioka found that by cutting steak up into small pieces and cooking it with vegetables and fried rice, it became more palatable to Japanese tastes. When it arrived in the West, teppanyaki took on the aspect of showmanship. Teppanyaki chefs were expected not just to cook the food, but to throw blades in the air, play drums on the griddle and, when possible, tell little jokes. Suki Lee knows all about this: for several years in the 1990s, before she and Ki bought their own place, she was the only female teppanyaki chef in the Valley. Part of the show when she cooked, she recalls, was just the fact that here was a woman doing the flashy-knife thing usually associated with men. Suki says the burden of management means she no longer has the opportunity to cook teppanyaki. Instead, she has two male cooks do that for her.

On a recent visit to Got Sushi, we watched as one of those two, teppanyaki chef Carlos Ramirez, prepared to make the fried rice by breaking an egg on the grill. The egg cooked quickly, Ramirez shaping it into a long, skinny omelet. The omelet rolled along as Ramirez pushed it, so of course he proclaimed, pointing with an air of profundity: “Japanese egg roll.” Bad puns prevail among teppanyaki chefs. More than any other mode of food preparation, teppanyaki involves the diner in the cooking process. The diner chooses a meat—typical choices are shrimp, chicken, scallops, salmon, lobster, and the original teppanyaki protein, steak (prices vary depending on the choice of meat)— and then sits back to watch the chef prepare the griddle, usually with soybean oil, soy sauce, brandy, sesame and pepper. Once the iron is hot, the chef strikes, starting with the “egg roll” and moving on to the fried rice. Then comes the meat, and finally the vegetables, including carrots, mushrooms and broccoli. The lowly onion is given a special place among the vegetables. The chef slices it and arranges the rings from large to small in a pyramid, fills the pyramid with brandy and sets it aflame: Voila, the flaming onion volcano! (Ramirez has a special way of putting out the flame. You’ll have to visit to find out.) While the show progresses, the diner at both Sapporo and Got Sushi enjoys mushroom-miso soup and a green salad with ginger dressing. The entrée is then delivered amid spiraling flames, flashing utensils, and shouts of “A-YA!”

Every teppanyaki chef worthy of the name will at some point play basketball with your mouth, flipping a bit of egg or vegetable in your direction. Few are quick enough to catch the piece of food. More typically, Ramirez, says, the food will land in someone’s eye. The teppanyaki chef ’s last act, as the diners finish their meals, is to wash the griddle with a cleansing fluid. Once, Ramirez recalls, he was doing this when a diner reached over with a forkful of lobster – and dipped it in the cleaning fluid that covered the griddle. “She said it was very good, and asked me to try it, but I said no.”

Sapporo

14344 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.607.1114, sapporoscottsdale.com

Got Sushi

6744 E. McDowell Road, Suite 102, Mesa, 480.807.8500, gotsushis.com

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For this beer, our brewmaster Keith Villa reached back to his roots and found inspiration in the traditional agua de horchata. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an ale with a taste of cinnamon for a sweet finish and natural long-grain rice for a creamy texture.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

THE CRAFTMASTER

SIP » BREW » RELAX » EXPERIMENT » REFRESH » TOAST

Beerfinder Directory 72 Brewer’s Bowl 82 Great Beer Pairings 74

Beer Over Here

Drink up at any of these Valley beer events this month Jasmine Kemper » The Entertainer!

Hiking for Hops

JANUARY 2 Start the New Year off the right way with a fun hike with good people. The Hiking for Hops Meetup group is trekking up Tom’s Thumb and afterward continuing the festivities at a brewery in Northern Scottsdale for some delicious brews. What a better way to reward yourself for an intense workout up the mountain than with an ice cold beer or two? Tom’s Thumb, 23015 N. 128th Street, Scottsdale, meetup.com/ hiking4hops, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., $7.50 per year membership

bRUNch @ O.H.S.O.

JANUARY 3 Grab your furry friends and sprint into the New Year with a morning 5K or 10K run, brunch and plenty of beers at O.H.S.O. Brewery, a dog-friendly spot in Arcadia. Tickets to the bRUNch include the run, an entrée and two drinks, with a dollar from every ticket sale benefiting the Boys & Girls Club of Metro Phoenix. Dishes include Biscuits and Beer Gravy, O.H.S.O.

French Toast and more! Don’t forget to grab a local brew (or two) to reward yourself post-run. O.H.S.O. Brewery Arcadia, 4900 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, 602.955.0358, ohsobrewery.com, 9:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., $25 adv, $30 doe

Running For Brews

JANUARY 5 If you love running and beers, then this is the running group for you! Running for Brews is for people who love to run, drink tasty beers and socialize with others. This time around, the group will also be having a raffle that benefits Feed My Starving Children. After the 5K, runners will convene at Moonshine Whiskey Bar and Grill for some good drinks and food. Whether you run or walk, Running For Brews is for any skill level. Moonshine Whiskey Bar and Grill, 410 S. Mill Avenue, Tempe, 480.429.4044, moonshinewhiskeybar.com, 7 p.m., free

Coors Light Coyotes Viewing Party

JANUARY 7 Moon Saloon is the place to be to watch the Arizona Coyotes compete against the Calgary Flames. Join the viewing party and throw back a few beers with friends. You can also enter to win tickets to a Coyotes game live and in-person! Moon Saloon, 16554 N. 83rd Avenue, Peoria, 623.773.2424, crescentcrown.com, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., free

Local Brewery and Restaurant Collaboration

JANUARY 14 North Mountain Brewing Company and O.H.S.O. Eatery + nanoBrewery in Paradise Valley are teaming up to bring guests this amazing food and drink collaboration. Dine on O.H.S.O.’s delicious fare and pair it with brews from North Mountain from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. It’s a great opportunity to

try food and drink from two of the Valley’s best breweries. O.H.S.O. Eatery + nanoBrewery Paradise Valley, 10810 N. Tatum Boulevard, Phoenix, 602.900.9003, ohsobrewery.com, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., free

Birds N’ Beer

JANUARY 21 Every third Thursday of the month, you can join the Audubon Center for a night of craft beers and nature talk. Guests can enjoy a Four Peaks brew, learn about the local birds, and talk with others who share a passion for animals. This month, the theme of the event is the Sandhill Cranes: America’s Greatest Migration. Sip on a beer and listen as Bill Taddicken from the Rowe Audubon Sanctuary in Nebraska talks about these beautiful American cranes. Nina Mason Pulliam Rio Salado Audubon Center, 3131 S. Central Avenue, Phoenix, 602.468.6470, riosalado.audubon.org, 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., free

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BeerFinder DIRECTORY Where to find the best craft beer bars in town

Craft 64

6922 E. Main Street, Scottsdale Craft 64 is proud to offer 36 local Arizona beers on tap in the heart of Scottsdale. Arizona beers only!

Mellow Mushroom Pizza

2490 W. Happy Valley Road, 5350 E. High Street, 740 S. Mill Avenue Locations throughout the Valley Incredible Pizza and amazing beer make Mellow the place to go for a craft beer experience.

Papago Brewing Company 7107 E. McDowell Road, Scottsdale The granddaddy of Arizona beer bars, there is something for every beer lover at Papago.

Boulders on Broadway

530 W. Broadway Road, Tempe Boulders has the appeal of a neighborhood bar with a beer list that’ll make your eyes pop.

Hungry Monk

1760 W. Chandler Boulevard, Chandler Whether you want great wings or great beer, Hungry Monk’s selection is tough to beat.

Harvey American Public House

1524 E. Williamsfield Road, Gilbert First class food and first class beer, all set away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Goldwater Brewing Co.

3608 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale This new brewery is already making waves with their desert inspired brews--and names. Check out their Scotch’Dale Scottish style ale.

Spokes on Southern

1470 E. Southern Avenue, Tempe A comfortable bike-themed grill with 24 draft handles and food made from scratch.

Culinary Dropout

5640 N. Seventh Street, 7135 E. Camelback Road Locations in Phoenix and Scottsdale Located at The Yard, Culinary Dropout has everything you look for in a great restaurant experience, especially great beer.

Scottsdale Beer Company

8608 E. Shea Boulevard, Scottsdale Quality craft beer made right here in Scottsdale. Happy hour from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday with $1 off all Scottsdale Beer Company beers, well drinks, wines by the glass and all small bites and starters!

Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row

Phoenix Public Market Café

4420 N. Saddlebag Trail Scottsdale Dierks Bentley has been known to kick back with a craft beer or two, and so can you at his digs.

Garage Wine and Tap

1534 E. Bethany Home Road, Phoenix With a small selection of great beers and a reputation for outstanding food, Garage should be on your list.

Thirsty Lion

Copper Blues/Stand Up Live

50 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix Have a beer and a meal at Copper Blues before the stand-up show. You won’t even worry if it’s sold out.

Brat Haus

3622 N. Scottsdale Road Scottsdale The name says it all--brats, pretzels, Belgian fries and plenty of craft “bier” to make everyone happy.

Cold Beer and Cheeseburgers 4222 N. Scottsdale Road, 20831 N. Scottsdale Road Scottsdale Do we need to say more? The name spells out everything you need to know.

2337 N. Seventh Street Phoenix A charming old home is the location for this Coronado neighborhood hangout spot.

Pig & Pickle

House of Brews Sports Bar 825 S. Cooper Road Gilbert Is it a sports bar or a craft beer bar? It’s both!

The PERCH Pub & Brewery

232 S. Wall Street, Chandler Located in historic Downtown Chandler, this brewery and pub not only has delicious craft brews, but is also home to a collection of beautiful, brightly colored rescue birds!

Union Barrel House

3636 N. Scottsdale Road Scottsdale Look for a changing selection of taps along with great food.

Ground Control

Fox Cigar Bar

1464 E. Williams Field Road Gilbert Cigar fans, this should be your stop for cigars and great craft beer. Enjoy a walk in the humidor, the dark wood bar and a patio that is perfect for a cigar and a beer.

World of Beer

526 S. Mill Avenue, 2224 E. Williamsfield Road Locations in Tempe and Gilbert Let these fine folks take you around the world with over 50 taps and 400 bottles. You are bound to find your favorite beer.

1805 E. Elliot Road Tempe Home of the Third Thursday Tap Takevoer. The rest of the month is pretty good, too.

craft 64

Main Ingredient Ale House

2922 N. Hayden Road Scottsdale A restaurant that focuses on balance and quality, Pig & Pickle doesn’t skimp when it comes to their craft beer selection, either.

2000 E. Rio Salado Parkway Tempe Plenty of great taps and plenty of room to hang out, let someone else do the shopping at Tempe Marketplace.

Flanny’s Bar and Grill

14 E. Pierce Street Phoenix The Phoenix Public Market Café is a casual urban hangout offering breakfast, lunch, dinner and great beer.

4860 N. Litchfield Road Litchfield Park Fresh roasted coffee and an ever-changing selection of good beer, including a fantastic import selection, make this one of the top spots in the West Valley.

The Brass Tap

1033 N. Dobson Road, Suite 104 Mesa Over 60 Taps of great craft beers and over 300 total craft beers from around the globe available! Casually upscale atmosphere, open-air patio that is cigar-friendly, nice menu, daily specials, live music and knowledgeable staff. What more could you ask for!

Uncle Bear’s Brewery

4921 E. Ray Road, Phoenix Stop by to enjoy some local craft beer including Uncle Bear’s and other guest taps as well as delicious bites and a great happy hour!

Artisan Wood Fired Pizza 36 all LOCAL Arizona beers on tap In the heart of Scottsdale

6922 E. Main StrEEt, ScottSdalE aZ • facEbo ok.coM/craft64 • craft64.coM • 480-946-0542

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THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

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BEER GEAR FEDERAL PIZZA

GREAT BEER PAIRINGS:

Forget about wine pairings! We hail the hop. We’re all about pairing our favorite craft brews with delicious dishes from Valley restaurants.

TIP OF THE BOOT PIZZA WITH LE FREAK FROM GREEN FLASH BREWERY (PART OF FEDERAL’S NEW PREMIUM POURS PROGRAM) “The spiciness of the Calabrese Pressata and chili oil pairs well with the hoppiness of the Imperial IPA, dry hopped with Amarillo. [The beer is a] unique Belgian yeast strand that creates bubblegum, fruity aromas that are paired with classic West Coast IPA hop character. Finishes like an aggressive West Coast IPA but has a lot of complexity on the palette due to the Belgian yeast. The high ABV and Belgian yeast used during fermentation tempers the heat and cleanses the palette, leaving the next bite as flavorful as the last.” —Christopher Newstrom, culinary director

Federal Pizza

5210 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, 602.795.2520, federalpizza.com

GRAB

STIEGL RADLER AND THRIST NO MORE

Ingredients: • Pure spring water from the Alps

You’ll never have a warm beer again with the Chillsner from uncommongoods.com. This icecold contraption makes lukewarm beers a thing of the past. With this stainless steel cooler, you can turn an unrefrigerated beer cold in an instant. Simply stick the Chillsner in the freezer for at least 90 minutes and place it in your brewski for a perfectly cooled drink. These are ideal for spontaneous parties, tailgating get-togethers and when you just don’t have the patience to wait for your beers to cool in the fridge. Available at uncommongoods.com

BRUNCH

Sat & Sun 10am - 3pm

(n): The socially acceptable excuse for day drinking

• Whole flower hops from Hallertau and Saaz

Enjoy favorites like: • Drunken Piggy Pancakes • Breakfast Burger • Croque Madame • Chilaquiles

• 50% pure grapefruit juice

• 2.5% ABV

Just Chill

and don’t forget about: Bloody Marys Mimosas Margaritas

• 75 calories per 300ml 8608 East Shea Blvd. Scottsdale, AZ 85260 480-219-1844 | ScottsdaleBeerCompany.com WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

IAN CAMPBELL O’NEAL

Beer: A story that needs to be told James Swann » The Entertainer!

itting in downtown Tempe’s Blasted Barley Brew House and Pub is truly a comfortable feeling, and chatting with head brewer Ian Campbell O’Neal only lends more credence to that sentiment. What a nice guy! He has been with Blasted Barley now for a little more than a month but cut his teeth as an assistant brewer at Uncle Bear’s Brewery in Phoenix. The motto he lives by is “Beer: A story that need to be told,” and judging by his first new brew, a reimagined version of Blasted Barley’s Strawberry Bottle Rocket Ale, he is intent on telling his story with a total sense on passion. This brew will be the first in his Cream Ale Series for which he has quite a few surprises in store. His stylistic goals center around classic beer varieties with an added twist so expect those favorites you all know and love but with an extra touch of his own flair and creativity. His favorite in-house brew is its IPA called BOOMSTICK, anyone recall the “Evil Dead”/“Army of Darkness” movies? Hail to the king baby! O’Neal’s new version of this brew will add the everpopular Citra hop to the recipe for an extra level of zing while adding a touch of Warrior hops to really pick up that level of bitterness all of us crazy hop heads require.

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Now, down in his neck of the woods, the clientele tends to be younger and not quite as experienced in the wise ways of craft beer. Having said so, his first couple of brews will be tilted toward the lighter side of things, including the aforementioned Strawberry Bottle Rocket plus Red White & Boom Amber and an easy-drinking Kolsch style called Das Blitz. “Education is key,” he says. He firmly believes that everyone including his staff and customers must have a comfortable place to begin their journey. As an avid beer drinker myself I remember which craft beer started it all for me, I bet you do, too! As in indicator of where the brewery may be headed, his favorite all-time brew is the Decadent Imperial IPA from Ska Brewing in Colorado. For him, this is the beer that started it all; the reason he began home brewing years back and the motivation for his current position. Not a bad place to begin right? When asked what makes him tick and where his drive comes from O’Neal simply replied, “I am a brewer who never wants to lose integrity and passion for the craft.” Essentially he is keeping it real and keeping it creative for himself, his employees and his crowd. What more can you ask of a man who makes your beer?

Brewed by Unibroue: Chambly, Québec, Canada J3L 2H6 | Imported by Unibrew USA: New York, NY 10036 Please enjoy our refermented ales responsibly

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STOUT VS. PORTER PART II

History and evolution of these popular dark beers Dave Clark » The Entertainer!

xploring the world of porters and stouts makes for an interesting, flavorful journey. Though these beers share some color and flavor/aroma similarities, the differences between styles can be quite distinct. Today, stouts and porters each have one distinguishing ingredient that separate the styles. In porter, it is black patent malt. This is a burnt, black malt that imparts the signature clean, roasty flavor in robust porters. In stouts, the signature ingredient is roasted barley, an unmalted grain that is kilned without actually going through the malting process. Consequently, roasted barley has a sharper roasted acridity and an overall drier character compared with black patent malt. In December’s edition we learned porter has three distinct styles while stout has six, according to the 2008 BJCP style guidelines. We also studied the history and substyles of porters. Today, we will explore the differences between the six substyles of stouts. The most popular style of stout is dry stout, made famous by Guinness. At just 4 percent abv, it has less alcohol than most light lagers! This proves that color does not influence alcohol strength whatsoever. Dry stouts are creamy, refreshing, dry and feature notes of coffee, chocolate and bitter roast. Sweet stout (also known as “milk stout”) actually used to be sweetened with milk. Today, lactose is used which lends a sweet finish and additional body to the beer. Also light in alcohol, Left Hand Milk Stout is a popular example. Oatmeal stout contains oats used as fermentables or in flaked form, which adds body, flavor and a natural silkiness to the beer. A fairly full bodied beer ranging from 4.2 percent to 5.9 percent abv. The classic example is

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Samuel Smith’s Oatmeal Stout. Foreign extra stout is two styles in one. Originally common in Europe, they were later reborn in the Caribbean. Caribbean or “tropical” versions are fruity and sweeter while European “export” versions are roasty and drier—imagine a bigger, more robust dry stout (export) or sweet stout (tropical). They range from 5.5 percent to 8 percent abv. Lion Stout is a wonderful Tropical version while Guinness Foreign Extra Stout is an export example. American stouts are showcases for American hop varietals which lend citrus, grapefruit or piney aromas and flavors. These robust beers of 7 percent abv have a defined bitterness and finish dry. Sierra Nevada Stout is a classic example. The biggest, most flavorful and complex stout is the imperial stout. It ranges from 8 percent to 12 percent abv with a myriad of flavors and aromas including any or all of the following: apricots, raisins, plums, figs, black currants, caramel and toffee, along with the traditional chocolate, coffee and roast. These are very full bodied, malt forward beers. Bitterness levels can reach 90 IBU though hops simply keep the beer balanced. Enjoy a Great Divide Yeti or North Coast Old Rasputin in a snifter at 50-55 degrees. Just as there are many sub-styles of music, there is a tremendous variation in the stout category alone. Take a trip down Stout Avenue and experience the wide range of flavors. You may never see dark beers in the same light again! Dave Clark is a Certified Cicerone, nationally ranked BJCP Beer Judge and self-professed beer geek who lives in Gilbert. Contact Dave at beerlovesbeer@gmail.com.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

A REFRESHING TAKE ON Winter sin

Inspired by six generations of wiscon brewing, Cranberry Ginger Shandy is our traditional Weiss Beer with natural cranberry and ginger flavors. Pick one up and join us out here®.

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TAKE $10 OFF ANY $40 DINNER. Valid at Gordon Biersch San Tan, Tempe and Scottsdale only.

$10 OFF $40 DINNER DINNING ROOM ONLY/ NO HAPPY HOUR Void where prohibited by law. No cash value. For promotional purposes only. Not valid towards gift card purchases. One per table. Valid at participating restaurants only. Not valid at airport locations. Alcohol purchase may be prohibited. Not valid with any other offer or discount. No stored value. Must be used in a single visit. A printed copy of this offer or a digital copy via mobile device must be presented to your server to qualify for this discount. Excludes tax and gratuity. Must be 21 years or older to consume alcohol. Valid in San Tan, Tempe and Scottsdale only. EXPIRES: 1/31/16 12/31/15

Visit Our New Location! SCOTTSDALE

7000 E. Mayo Blvd.

Building #21, Phoenix, Az 85054

(480) 367-0469

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BEERTENDERS Bartenders who really know their beer Breanne DeMore Âť The Entertainer!

RENE SANCHEZ, bar-centric

training manager at Tilted Kilt

ilted Kilt is the perfect place for people who know what they want. Good food, TVs within view, a relaxing atmosphere and great beer are all expected when one walks into a Tilted Kilt. What you might not expect is that great beer expands past the typical big names and Tilted Kilt does its part to support local craft breweries. We spoke with Rene Sanchez, the bar-centric training manager about everything craft beer, including why craft beer lovers should check out Tilted Kilt. What makes craft beer so special? Craft beer has the ability to conform a night out into a unique drinking experience. How did you get interested in craft beer? With traveling for the Tilted Kilt, I was able to experience new, local breweries which allowed me to broaden my beer palate.

What is your favorite craft beer? DuClaw Sweet Baby Jesus. I tried it while attending a pub opening in Hamilton, New Jersey, and fell in love with it. Why do you think the Tilted Kilt is a great place for craft beer? Tilted Kilt is an endearing brand to local markets, therefore we embrace local breweries. What is your favorite part about the craft beer culture in the Valley? The diversity that exists in the many local breweries bring unique craft flavors for everyone now residing in Arizona.

Tilted Kilt

Locations throughout the Valley, tiltedkilt.com

Think BBQ!

(Or Ribs, Chicken, Pork, Brisket & Turkey)

3222 E. Indian School Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85018 (602) 314-5599 www.frasherssmokehouse.com WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

CRESCENT CROWN MOBILE APP LOCATE EVENTS, BRANDS & BREWS ANYWHERE. App Available on iTunes & Google Play

Search for CRESCENT CROWN in the app store

BAD WATER, RAD BEER C

Brewer’s Bowl showcases the finest in craft beer

raft beer from around the Valley will compete in a friendly competition to determine who has the best craft beer during the second annual Brewer’s Bowl in Old Town Scottsdale from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, February 6. The first festival was a prime opportunity for Arizona breweries to showcase their creations to the locals and visitors enjoying the busy Super Bowl and Waste Management Phoenix Open weekend. Attendance during the first annual event reached space capacity with more than 2,000 festivalgoers. Once again, the Brewer’s Bowl is held in accordance with the WMPO. Last year, North Mountain Brewing

Company won with its oatmeal stout and will receive a signature plaque as the trophy returns to Bad Water to await this year’s winner. Breweries participating in the festival are encouraged but not required to enter the blind tasting competition paneled by BJCP certified judges. The Brewer’s Bowl trophy will be awarded in a best of show style judging session and presented during the event. “Considerable time was spent last year building a foundation for this event,” says Lewis Kubitz, Bad Water Brewing’s founder. “A lot of consideration went into traveling to new Super Bowl cities, [but] in the end we wanted to keep this an Arizona tradition with a possibility of expansion down the road.”

A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Paradise Valley Emergency Food Bank, a cooperative dedicated to providing emergency provision to the community’s hungry. Additionally, this year the Brewer’s Bowl plans to purchase some of the beer from brewers and distributors, keeping an eye on the mission to support the local beer business. The Brewer’s Bowl will be held in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale near Bad Water Brewing’s Tap Room at 4216 N. Brown Avenue. The festival will be set-up on Brown Avenue between Third and Fourth avenues, which will be closed to vehicle traffic. Founded in 2012, Bad Water Brewing is a distinct beverage brand for influential individuals whose loyalty never foregoes quality, character, WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

originality and taste. An Arizona-born brand, enjoy Bad Water beers throughout the state at well-known retailers, bars and restaurants or Bad Water’s new tap room in Old Town Scottsdale. For more information, visit badwaterbrewing.com or follow on Facebook at www.facebook. com/BadWaterBrewing, or Twitter and Instagram @BadWaterBrewing.

The Brewer’s Bowl

Old Town Scottsdale on Brown Avenue between Third and Fourth avenues, brewersbowl.com, Saturday, February 6, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., $35 to $55

CITRADELIC IPA

TUNE IN. HOP OUT. NEWBELGIUM.COM

GOING ‘GLOBAL’ Todd Rundgren reinvents himself (again) with electronic dance music Alan Sculley » The Entertainer!

arly in Todd Rundgren’s career, he decided that being unique musically was more important and satisfying than being popular. “I came to a point where I realized it was fruitless for me to make music that other people could make just as well,” Rundgren explains. “I had to make music that other people weren’t making in order to justify my musical existence. It’s kind of been that way ever since.” Rundgren has followed that philosophy since the early 1970s, when his third solo effort, the landmark 1972 double album Something/Anything? put him on the cusp of major stardom. Songs like the hit singles “Hello It’s Me,” “I Saw The Light” as well as “It Wouldn’t Have Made Any Difference” and “Couldn’t I Just Tell You” reaffirmed Rundgren’s gift for writing concise and indelible pop gems. Rundgren, who released his 25th solo album” in April, realized in the wake of that initial success that he could continue in the vein of Something/Anything? and very possibly become one of the biggest stars of that era. But he had a different kind of career in mind, which dovetailed with his natural tendency to explore and reinvent himself musically. “It [sticking to a successful musical blueprint] will build you an audience of a certain kind, but I don’t know if it builds the loyalty that being a little bit more bold does,” Rundgren says. Rundgren has made more accessible albums since, but he has remained a relentlessly adventurous and frequently innovative artist. His latest album, Global, finds Rundgren continuing to explore an electronic music vein that he first tapped with the 1993 interactive release, New World Order, and has featured on several subsequent albums, including Liars (2004) and State (2013). Guitars are almost entirely absent on Global, as Rundgren uses synthesizers, sequencers, computers and programmed rhythms to create the

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musical backdrop for what, ironically enough, might feel like a collection of fairly conventional and equally appealing pop songs in a guitar/bass/drums setting. As on many of recent albums, Rundgren plays all the instruments on Global, and he’s found that the tools of electronic dance music suit his methods as well as his music. “It’s partly because you have broader control over sonic palate,” he says, explaining his attraction to a synthesized sound. “It’s kind of satisfying. In the old days, we used to kind of struggle to achieve some of the sounds that you kind of imagined hearing. Now it’s kind of a riot of possibilities out there. “I mean, the things that somebody like Skrillex has done with sounds have really revolutionized everything that you hear, to the point that Skrillex is passé now,” Rundgren says. “It’s like three years ago, he was the hottest thing happening, and now everybody does what he does.”

Todd Rundgren

The Showroom at Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale, 480.850.7734, talkingstickresort.com, 8 p.m. Friday, January 8, sold out.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

THE HIGHROLLER

PLAY » SPIN » LAUGH » GROOVE » UNWIND » WIN

THE BEST CASINO EVENTS IN JANUARY

Tamara Juarez » The Entertainer!

EUROPE “The Final Countdown”

Donny Osmond

JANUARY 8 Get an intimate look at Donny Osmond’s most memorable moments in music during this exclusive 15-city tour. Osmond’s “The Soundtrack of My Life Tour” highlights songs from his 50-year career as a performer and chart-topping solo hits such as “Go Away Little Girl,” “Soldier of Love” and “Puppy Love.” Wild Horse Pass, 5040 W. Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, 800.946.4452, wingilariver.com/wild-horse-pass

Dave Mason’s Traffic Jam World Tour

JANUARY 22 English rocker Dave Mason and his band Traffic Jam will be performing at Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale on Friday, January 22. Come listen to popular hits such as “Feelin’ Alright” and “Hole in My Shoe” as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame musician celebrates a new world tour with timeless songs that encompass his 50 years in music. Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale, 480.850.7777, talkingstickresort.com

Jim Norton

Styx

JANUARY 17 Known for its hard-charging guitars and soaring power ballads, Styx returns to the Valley with its theatrical show featuring songs like “Mr. Roboto” and “Come Sail Away.” Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, 480.850.7734, talkingstickresort.com

JANUARY 25 Celebrate more than three decades of rock as the legendary band Europe plays hits “The Final Countdown,” “Carrie,” “Open Your Heart,” “Rock the Night” and music from its recent release War of Kings. Europe has sold millions of albums worldwide and will be jamming out at Wild Horse Pass January 25. Wild Horse Pass, 5040 W. Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, 800.946.4452, wingilariver.com/wild-horse-pass

JANUARY 23 Laugh the night away with Jim Norton. The nationally renowned comedian is famous for his sharp wit and satirical flare that guarantees to leave you in stiches. Norton has appeared on “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” and numerous other popular TV programs. He will perform live in the Showroom at Talking Stick Resort on Saturday, January 23. Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale, 480.850.7777, talkingstickresort.com

Wild Horse Pass Casino Fights Norm Macdonald and Kevin Nealon

JANUARY 23 The two “Saturday Night Live” veterans come together for a spectacular evening of comedy. The award-winning comics were both stars of SNL’s “Weekend Update,” so expect topical humor. Wild Horse Pass, 5040 W. Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, 800.946.4452, wingilariver.com/wild-horse-pass

JANUARY 30 Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino will be hosting its first WFF cage fight of the year Saturday, January 30, starting at 7:30 p.m. Join other mixed martial arts fans as they cheer on their favorite professional and amateur fighters as they go head-tohead inside the steel cage. Wild Horse Pass, 5040 W. Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, 800.946.4452, wingilariver.com/wild-horse-pass

Gaming Tip It’s important to be familiar with the games before you put any money down. Once you have the game down pat, remember to only gamble money you can afford to lose. Don’t rack up thousands of dollars in debt if you’re a first timer (or any other “timer”). Foremost: Don’t be greedy. WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

CASINO ENTERTAINMENT

CALENDAR

JANUARY 1

JANUARY 8

DSB- Journey Tribute Band

Generation Idol—Billy Idol Tribute Band

The Showroom at Casino Arizona, casinoarizona.com

The Hamptons

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, wingilariver.com

Andrea & Gemini

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, wingilariver.com

JANUARY 9

The Showroom at Talking Stick Resort, talkingstickresort.com

Lone Butte Comedy—with Ed Regine and Gregory Freiler

Lone Butte Casino, wingilariver.com

Nashville Gold

Vee Quiva Hotel and Casino, wingilariver.com

Squeezebox & Mollie B

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, wingilariver.com

JANUARY 3 ’56 Rock & Roll Revue

Chuck E Baby

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, wingilariver.com

Pima Express

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, wingilariver.com

JANUARY 10 Teen Idols Tribute

JANUARY 4

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, wingilariver.com

Route 66

Eagleheart

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, wingilariver.com

Danny Davis

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, wingilariver.com

JANUARY 11 Swingtips

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, wingilariver.com BER » NOVEM

MelissaGE ETHERID

The Temptations 2016

Styx

The Salt River Grand Ballroom at Talking Stick Resort, talkingstickresort.com

Magic of Motown

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, wingilariver.com

Smokestack Lighting

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, wingilariver.com

JANUARY 22 Blasphemous RumoursDepeche Mode Tribute

Smooth Groove

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, wingilariver.com

JANUARY 24 Mirage Visions of Fleetwood Mac

Lone Butte Casino, wingilariver.com

JANUARY 25 Jukebox 6

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, wingilariver.com

Europe 2016 War of Kings Tour Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, wingilariver.com

JANUARY 29 Aeromyth-A Tribute to the Music of Aerosmith

The Showroom at Casino Arizona, casinoarizona.com

Justin Shandor “World’s Ultimate Elvis Concert”

Lone Butte Casino, wingilariver.com

JANUARY 30 Blue Oyster Cult

The Showroom at Casino Arizona, casinoarizona.com

The Lounge at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, harrahsakchin.com

Dave Mason’s Traffic Jam World Tour

Wild Horse Pass Casino Fights

The Showroom at Talking Stick Resort, talkingstickresort.com

Burton Cummings

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, wingilariver.com

JANUARY 23 The Showroom at Talking Stick Resort, talkingstickresort.com

Casper

Vee Quiva Hotel and Casino, wingilariver.com

Norm Macdonald & Kevin Nealon

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, wingilariver.com

Shining Star

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, wingilariver.com

Brenton Wood

Vee Quiva Hotel and Casino, wingilariver.com

JANUARY 31 Lou Nelson: Tom Jones Tribute Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, wingilariver.com

Priminition

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, wingilariver.com

2015

Chocolate

JANUARY 16

Jim Norton

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, wingilariver.com

PHX METRO

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, wingilariver.com

JANUARY 17

Donny Osmond

Jerry Riopelle

The Walkens

An Evening with Todd Rundgren

UFC 195: Lawler vs. Condit

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, wingilariver.com

JANUARY 2

Piano Man Tribute

Pysko Circus

The Showroom at Casino Arizona, casinoarizona.com

The Showroom at Talking Stick Resort, talkingstickresort.com

The Arizona Room Patio Grill at Casino Arizona, casinoarizona.com

JANUARY 15

PHX METRO » DECEMBER 2015

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THE FINAL COUNTDOWN Europe sees renewed interested thanks to Geico commercial Christina Fuoco-Karasinski » The Entertainer!

t’s 10 p.m. in Paris and Geico commercial stars Europe just stepped off the stage where they performed with the Scorpions. Joey Tempest is exhausted but eager to say that Europe is much more than a Geico commercial and the hit single “The Final Countdown.” But he does acknowledge that the TV spot has helped renew interest in Europe. “We saw another commercial in England Iggy Pop,” Tempest says about the decision to join forces with Geico. “He did a similar thing with another insurance company. We figured if he could do it, if he could get away with it, then we could.” Tempest and the rest of Europe bargained with Geico: If they could perform an updated version of “The Final Countdown” and feature their contemporary style, they were into it. “I mean, we did five albums [since the reunion],” he says. “We had telephone meetings and decided, ‘Cool. Yeah, let’s do it. Let’s work together.’ It was a great experience. They had good directors. They knew what they were doing We had a blast doing that one. It seems like it’s awakening people to this band again.” The commercial affected fans so much that “The Final Countdown” hit No. 1 for the first time.

“To hit No. 1 after all these years on Billboard, that was pretty cool,” he says. Tempest is hoping for an equally as successful relaunch of its 2015 album War of Kings. Released December 4, the War of Kings special edition includes its “Live at Wacken 2015” DVD and BluRay. The set is available in three formats (twodisc Ecolbook CD and DVD, two-disc Ecolbook CD and BluRay, limited edition deluxe package with War of Kings CD, DVE and BluRay and Photobook), and an audio-only edition of the Wacken 2015 performance is available via digital format. “It’s neat,” Tempest says. “We worked hard to put a DVD together. We filmed it at this German festival called Wacken Open Air. We used lots of cameras. Kevin Shirley mixed it. We used our video guy. “It’s our album, but it has a bonus DVD and a whole gig—17 songs—which we had carefully package to make it as good as we can.” Europe formed in Sweden under the name Force in 1979 by Tempest, guitarist John Norum, bassist Peter Olsson and drummer Tony Reno. Since its formation, Europe has released 10 studio albums, three live albums, three compilations and 19 videos. They broke up in 1992 and reunited in 1998. “We’re so lucky,” Tempest says. “We met when we were teenagers. John, the

guitar player, was 14. I was 15. Here we are doing what we love still after all these years. “We’re getting respect. We’ve released five albums [since the band reformed]. We’ve been together longer the second period than the first period. We’re going on 11 years now.” Tempest explains he and the rest of the band—which now includes keyboardist Mic Michaeli, bassist John Leven and drummer Ian Haugland—are anticipating Europe’s first West Coast run in 10 years. “We have a lot of great touring memories from America,” he says. “You have to be honest, it’s the birthplace of blues, rock ‘n’ roll, moving pictures. It’s holy ground for us. “We love coming there and now we’re getting another opportunity to reacquaint ourselves. We’re going to do it our way.”

Europe

Wild Horse Pass’ Ovations Live Showroom, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, 800.946.4452, wingilariver.com, 7:30 p.m. Monday, January 25, $30 to $60 WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

miniplans

losdbacks com/miniplanes

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

THE GLADIATOR

CHEER » HIT » HIKE » LEAD » ROOT » COMPETE

The Rock ‘N’ Roll Marathon Series

JANUARY’S BEST

SPORTS EVENTS Damir Lolic » The Entertainer!

Arizona Cardinals Playoffs VARIOUS DATES IN JANUARY The NFL regular season is coming to a close and Cardinals’ fans hopes for a Super Bowl appearance are higher than ever. The Cards have already clinched a playoff berth following their victory over the Minnesota Vikings and, as of press time, stand second in the NFC. Considering how competitive the regular season has been, Arizona must win all three of their remaining fixtures if they are to secure the coveted first-round bye. Week 15’s matchup against the Green Bay Packers was set to be the deciding factor. University of Phoenix Stadium, 1 Cardinals Drive, Glendale, azcardinals.com

Phoenix Suns vs. Miami Heat JANUARY 8 Goran Dragic makes his highly anticipated return to the desert with the dangerous Miami Heat. The last time these interconference foes met—a 115-98 Heat victory—tempers flared and three players were ejected from the game. The Suns will be looking for revenge on January 8. Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, nba.com/suns

Arizona Derby Dames JANUARY 9, 30 The hard-hitting Arizona Derby Dames have two bouts scheduled this month. On Jan. 9, the undefeated Brutal Beauties look to remain unblemished when they face off against the Runaway Brides. The Bombshells will be aiming to keep their playoff hopes alive, but the Schoolyard Scrappers might have

other plans in mind when they meet on the banked track Jan. 30. The Hall of Dames will open its doors at 6 p.m. Food venders and concessions will be available per usual. Hall of Dames, 2517 W. McDowell Road, Suite 118, Phoenix, ArizonaDerbyDames.com

The College Football Playoff National Championship JANUARY 11 The second edition of the College Football Playoff National Championship is coming to the Valley. The four schools in the running for college football supremacy are the University of Alabama, Clemson University, Oklahoma State University and Michigan State University. The Goodyear Cotton Bowl will see an undefeated Clemson side take on Oklahoma, while the Capital One Orange Bowl pits Alabama against Michigan State. There should be an endless supply of storylines once the Semifinals are complete and the National Championship game is set. University of Phoenix Stadium, 1 Cardinals Drive, Glendale, collegefootballplayoff.com

JANUARY 16, 17 The Rock ‘N’ Roll Marathon Series eliminates the norm of running with your headphones in by providing live entertainment for participants as they run. The running series offers participants a 5K, 10K and Kids’ race. Supplying scenic surroundings encompassing Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tempe, the event also benefits St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and has raised more than $300 million to date. 7014 E. Camelback Road Scottsdale, runrocknroll.com

The Color Run at Tempe Beach Park JANUARY 24 The Color Run is not your traditional marathon as noted by its two simple rules: 1. Wear white at the starting line; 2. Finish plastered in color. This year’s run boasts Tropicolor Zones, where runners will be deluged in an array of tropical colors. Participants receive a bunch of goodies once they complete

the “run” and it’s all topped off by a fiesta featuring music, dancing and photos. Funds raised from the event benefit Special Olympics and Banner Children’s Medical Center. Tempe Beach Park, 80 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, thecolorrun.com

2016 Waste Management Phoenix Open FEBRUARY 4, 5, 6, 7 ASU alumni Phil Mickelson aims to capture an unprecedented fourth triumph at this year’s Waste Management Phoenix Open. The event lives up to the hype: It was voted by the PGA TOUR as the “PGA TOUR Tournament of the Year” for the second consecutive season during the 2014-15 campaign. Dubbed “The Greatest Show on Grass,” WMPO’s atmosphere is unmatched with more than 500,000 fans expected to be in attendance throughout the weekend. TPC Scottsdale, 17020 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale, wmphoenixopen.com

Arizona Coyotes vs. Detroit Red Wings JANUARY 14 After an encouraging start to the season, the Coyotes have cooled off as of late. In December, the Red Wings crushed the Yotes 5-1. Arizona will try and flip the script at Gila River Arena on January 14. Gila River Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Avenue, Glendale, coyotes.nhl.com

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BACK TO THE

FUTURE A

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski » The Entertainer!

s Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder David Peralta took the stage at the new uniform unveiling party at Chase Field in early December, he seemed determined to make his mark. It wasn’t difficult for the Venezuelaborn superstar, who already hams it up at each at bat with his trademark lean, and his enthusiastic clap each time he smacks an extra base hit. He strutted down the runway, pointing to the left side of the crowd and to the right, before striking his signature pose in his bold gray road-trip uniform. As the D-backs tweeted, nine seasons in purple and teal; nine seasons in red and sand. The timing is perfect to blend the two eras. “It’s something different,” says Peralta after the big reveal. “I’m the type of guy who likes different stuff. This is way different. It’s really good. It’s going to be something new for us. They call it an evolution. That’s what it is.” WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

The Diamondbacks teased the change by advertising a forthcoming evolution. This “evolution” features seven new uniforms; eight, if you count the Throwback Thursday purple uniform. Most incorporate the old-school teal and snakehead logo. Diamondbacks brass tossed around the idea of new uniforms in the middle of last season. Pitcher Daniel Hudson says it’s the perfect time to make a change like this. “It’s a good day,” says Hudson, donning the red alternative uniform with white pants that boast a Sedona red sublimate diamond pattern at the bottom. “We’re a young franchise so we were able to do this unlike the 100-year tradition of the Dodgers, Cardinals, Boston Red Sox and the Yankees. We can appeal to a younger audience.” Hudson admits that he was somewhat skeptical about the design at the bottom of the pants.

“That’s what had the guys kind of tweaking their eyebrows a little bit,” he says. “I said, ‘I don’t know about that.’ But the more I see them, the more I like it. If fans don’t like them at first, I think they’re going to grow on a lot of people.” Milling around backstage at the uniform unveil was Zach Lind, the drummer for the Valley-based rock act Jimmy Eat World. “I think they look great,” says Lind, donning his own customized jersey with “Jimmy Eat World” emblazoned on the back. “It looks really good on me, especially. No, what really stood out to me was the darker gray, the away uniforms. It’s a total radical thing, just the little touches that they did. I like the snake emblem on the hats.” Paul Goldschmidt wore the primary home uniform that is white with red trim and the D-backs snakehead logo on one sleeve. Goldschmidt, too, admits he was a little apprehensive, but as the drawings

became more detailed, and his input was welcomed, his confidence grew. “You want to retain some of the oldschool mentality and the old-school look,” he says. “It’s a balancing act between what they want us to wear and what we’re comfortable with.” Special Assistant to the President and CEO Luis Gonzalez says he sees the uniform evolution as a way of attracting fans nationwide—and even worldwide. “We hope it’ll have a positive influence throughout Major League Baseball and hopefully kids around the country will be wearing our colors,” he says. “Fans I think are always looking for change. Our core players are young. We’re one of the first teams to do something different. We hope a lot of fans around the country want to wear our jerseys because it’s something different. “There will always be positives and always negatives. It’s the nature of the beast. For us, this is a perfect time to do it.”

HITTING THE

TURF

College’s top football teams vie for the championship

Ken Abramczyk » The Entertainer!

or decades, college football’s bowl game season always stirred debates over which team was truly No. 1. The College Football Playoff was designed and initiated to not just quiet those debates but to enhance interest and give more opportunities for teams to win a national title by matching up the nation’s top four teams to play in semifinal games in order to advance to the National Championship game. Those semifinal games, scheduled for Thursday, December 31, pitted the No. 1 Clemson Tigers against the No. 4 Oklahoma Sooners in the Capital One Orange Bowl at 2 p.m. (MST), and the No. 2 Alabama Crimson Tide against the No. 3 Michigan State Spartans at 6 p.m. (MST) in the Cotton Bowl Classic. (These gridiron matches happened just after press time.) The winners advance to play in the CFP National Championship game at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale on Monday, January 11, at 6:30 p.m. (MST). These teams were selected by a 12-member committee after the regular season and conference championship

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games were completed. This system has quieted some, but not all, of the arguments that existed under the CFP’s predecessor, the Bowl Championship Series. Many fans may argue the fourteam playoff needs to be expanded to eight. That may not happen for a while, as the CFP is contracted until 2025-2026. Last year, the NCAA began the CFP. This system helped an Ohio State

team, which lost a game early in the 2014 season, but managed to win critical games against conference rivals, a Big Ten championship and then defeat Alabama and Oregon to win the inaugural CFP National Championship. Under the previous BCS system and with its one loss, the Buckeyes may have been on the outside looking in at a national championship game, as the BCS placed

the top two teams against each other in a championship game. The BCS, in place from 1998 to 2013, created five bowl game match-ups with the top 10 teams, but only selected the top two for the championship, leaving it open to criticism because many conference champion teams were left out. This year the nation will watch four conference champions in the semifinals (Clemson, ACC; Alabama, SEC; Michigan State, Big Ten, and Oklahoma, Big 12). The Tigers are led by quarterback Deshean Watson with wins over Notre Dame, Florida State and North Carolina, while the Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Baker Mayfield steamrolled past Baylor, TCU and rival Oklahoma State on the way to the title. Alabama seeks a trip to the national championship game, which eluded them last year in the CFP with a loss to Ohio State. Led by Heisman Trophy winner Derrick Henry, the Tide marched to an SEC championship with wins over

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

Florida, LSU, Mississippi State. Michigan State won the Big Ten with its third conference championship in six years, which includes a co-championship in 2010, knocking off Michigan, Ohio State and Iowa this season. Two of those victories came with no time left on the clock. The MSU offense is led by senior quarterback Connor Cook, the winner of the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award as the nation’s top senior quarterback.

THE CHAMPIONSHIP VENUE

These teams hope to play in the CFP National Championship at the University of Phoenix Stadium, which opened in 2006 and features a retractable roof. It seats 64,300 fans, is expandable to 72,200, and is home to the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals. The stadium was designed by architect Peter Eisenman with HOK

Sport, Hunt Construction Group and Urban Earth Design. These designers created a venue to compliment the desert landscape. The facility features shimmering metal panels intended to reflect the shifting desert light along vertical glass slots, allowing fans a spectacular view of the horizon from any level of the exterior. The stadium cost $455 million to build with $300 million contributed by the Arizona Sports & Tourism Authority. The Fiesta Bowl contributes $140 million each year to the local economy. In 2011, the BCS championship game added $188 million to the local economy.

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THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANAURY 2016

THE YOUNGSTER

FROLIC » DISCOVER » IMAGINE » FAMILY » FUN » CONNECT

‘SPARKTACULAR’ PERFORMANCE ArcAttack electrifies with a mashup of art and science

he electrifying performance group ArcAttack combines its love of rock music and its love of science in a show full of high-tech wizardry. Part rock concert, part science experiment, the “sparktacular” performance is perfect for the whole family, especially those with young budding artists or science enthusiasts. In the show, the creators of ArcAttack unveil the science behind two custom engineered hand-built Tesla Coils that throw out electrical arcs up to 12 feet long, each one acting as an instrument with a sound reminiscent of the early days of the synthesizer. A robotic drum set accompanies the display—its high power LEDs flashing bright colors with the stroke of each mechanically actuated stick. ArcAttack invites the audience to explore concepts such as electricity, voltage and current, magnetism, robotics and lightning through a show that’s both entertaining and interactive. The audience is engaged from start to finish as the group’s trusty, completely automated robot drummer King Beat introduces the audience to the show.

ArcAttack

Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main Street, Mesa, 480.644.6500, mesaartscenter.com, Sunday, January 24, 3 p.m., $27 WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

COMING TO LIFE

Disney On Ice presents ‘Frozen’ midmonth

THE FUNNEL CAKE BLOG: WHAT’S NEW IN SoCAL

CALLING ALL

MUGGLES

Universal Studios Hollywood welcomes Harry Potter in April Randy Montgomery » The Entertainer!

U E

very now and then there is a movie that becomes an industry all on its own. Disney’s animated film “Frozen,” which debuted in November 2013, is one of those films. The flick is the top grossing animated movie of all time and raked in $1.219 billion at the box office worldwide. With a snowy setting and family-friendly plot, “Frozen” made the ideal choice for a Disney On Ice adaptation—and local fans can see the sure-to-be-sold-out show from January 13-18 at the Talking Stick Resort Arena. “In our more than 30 years of producing Disney On Ice shows, Feld Entertainment has been waiting for a film like this,” says producer Nicole Feld. “While it might seem obvious that ‘Frozen’ is well suited for the ice, this Disney On Ice production will touch audiences emotionally through innovative show elements and world-class skating.” The ice skating production follows the plot of the popular movie, including several of the now-classic songs. In addition to the familiar plotline, “Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse take the audience through the magical story based in Arendelle, with special appearances by beloved Disney Princesses and favorite characters from Disney/Pixar’s ‘Toy Story’ and ‘Finding Nemo’ and Disney’s ‘The Lion King,’” according to staff at Feld Entertainment, the show’s production company.

Disney on Ice presents Frozen

“Frozen is such a phenomenon. Everyone, not just the kids, but the moms and dads [and] grandparents all know the songs from the movie and sing along during the show,” says Julie Pritchard, a skater in the show. “Putting ‘Frozen’ on ice is just the perfect entity and adds a new dynamic to the storytelling.” According to show producers, the set design during the Disney On Ice adaptation is not to be missed as props will scale high into the air and state-of-the-art special effects will complement powerful skating. “It’s such an honor to be part of this production. It’s so huge! We have fabulous special effects, an amazing set and awesome choreography,” Pritchard says. “The best thing though has to be going out and performing and hearing the audience’s reactions. It’s pretty incredible.” And, for those who never caught Frozen Fever, the show should still be entertaining, too, Pritchard adds. “We tell the whole story of ‘Frozen’ so you can come along to see the show without having seen the movie,” she explains. “Plus we have a fabulous opening number where Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy help introduce some of your other favorite Disney characters.” Director Patty Vincent adds, “Our goal is to showcase these heartwarming characters in a way that allows the audience to cheer and sing along throughout this emotional journey.”

Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 800.745.3000, ticketmaster.com, various times, January 13 through January 18, $29 to $94. WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

Wizardwear and Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods. Grab lunch or dinner and sample traditional British foods inside Three Broomsticks and Hog’s Head Pub. Grab a Butterbeer or try Pumpkin Juice. While the sights, sounds, food and drink may be enough to keep you entertained, the highlight of the expansion lies within the walls of Hogwarts. “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” will be an immersive, visually impressive and state-of-the-art ride. The attraction, built on a robotics ride system, will take guests from the classrooms and corridors of Hogwarts through an elevated adventure. If you have visited the Harry Potter ride at Islands of Adventure in Orlando, you will notice a visible addition to the Hollywood version of the attraction; hyper-realistic 3-D-HD technology. Guests will be given Quidditch-inspired goggles to wear during the journey. Outside Hogwarts grab a ride on the “Flight of the Hippogriff, which is a family-style rollercoaster, the first of its kind at the Hollywood theme park. Choose a wand at Ollivanders, listen to the Frog Choir, and watch a colorful procession at the “Triwizard Spirit Rally.” Take an early virtual tour at www. wizardingworldhollywood.com UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD

Michelle Talsma Everson » The Entertainer!

niversal Studios Hollywood has been undergoing a $1.6 billion expansion project, which has included new “Despicable Me”-themed rides and attractions. A new back-lot “Fast & Furious” attraction on the world-famous Studio Tour and a new immersive Springfield, which accompanies the long-standing “The Simpsons Ride.” The highlight of the project is the massive addition of “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.” Construction has been progressing rapidly, with fans posing for pictures in front of work walls for months. In early December, the park literally lit up the night’s sky with an opening date announcement. Start making your travel plans now for April 7 Author J.K. Rowling’s stories and characters will be brought to life, with incredible detail. Upon entering Hogsmeade, guests will immediately notice Hogwarts towering in the skyline, which can actually be seen from miles away. After you walk under the entry arch, stroll along cobblestone streets and see snow-capped buildings. You can visit numerous shops and dining establishments, straight out of the novels. Shop until you drop at eight retail venues that will immediately immerse you into Harry Potter’s world. Visit Honeydukes, Ollivanders, Owl Post, Zonko’s Joke Shop, Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment, Dervish and Banges, Gladrags

For photos and updates from Universal Studios and across Southern California, visit facebook.com/theFUNnelCakeBlog

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

THE BEST FAMILY EVENTS

IN JANUARY FIESTA BOWL PARADE JANUARY 2

Sven to the chilly land of Arendelle for this fairytale on ice! The “Frozen” gang dance, sing and skate to some of the most iconic songs like “Let It Go” from the magical story. Mickey and Minnie will host the show, as well as characters from other Disney classics like “The Lion King,” Disney Pixar’s “Toy Story” and “Finding Nemo.” This icy adventure will warm your heart all night long. Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.379.7800, talkingstickresortarena.com, times vary, $25-$171

Color Run Fiesta Bowl Parade

JANUARY 2 Celebrate the annual Fiesta Bowl with the 45th annual Fiesta Bowl Parade! Festive floats and giant balloons, as well as local personalities and fantastic marching bands, will line the streets. The 2-mile stretch of parade will also feature an Ohio State University marching band performance. The parade is free with reserved bleacher seating available for $25. Don’t miss the fiesta! Downtown Phoenix, N. Central Avenue and W. Montebello Avenue, Phoenix, 480.350.0900, fiestabowl.org, 11 a.m., free

Jack Hanna’s Into The Wild Live!

JANUARY 8 Animal lovers, get excited! Animal expert Jack Hanna is making his way to the Orpheum Theatre for Jack Hanna’s Into The Wild Live! Hanna is bringing along some of his favorite furry friends for the journey, along with funny footage and stories about all of his crazy adventures around the globe. Purchase a VIP ticket and you can get up close and personal with the

animals and Jack after the show! Orpheum Theatre, 203 W. Adams Street, Phoenix, 602.262.6225, phoenixconventioncenter.com, 7:30 p.m., $25-$77

Sunday A’Fair

JANUARY 10 Starting this month at the Scottsdale Civic Center Park there will be free concerts on the lawn from local musicians almost every Sunday! Along with the music, the whole family can also enjoy an arts and crafts market, food and drinks available for purchase, sculpture tours and free admission to the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. Grab the family and head to the park for the first Sunday A’Fair featuring Big Nick & the Gila Monsters. Scottsdale Civic Center Park, 3939 N. Drinkwater Boulevard, Scottsdale, 480.499.8587, scottsdaleperformingarts.org, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., free

Jasmine Kemper » The Entertainer!

JANUARY 23 It’s time to paint the town colorful! The “Happiest 5K on the Planet” is back for another year of dip-dyed fun for every age! The whole family can enjoy a pre-race dance party and getting covered in paint during the race at Tempe Beach Park. This year, the run is giving back to Banner Cardon Children’s Hospital. So grab your goggles, tutus, running gear

and smiles and head to the coolest run in town. Tempe Beach Park, 80 West Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, thecolorrun.com, 7:45 a.m., $34.99-$54.99

The Magic Books

JANUARY 26 THROUGH FEBRUARY 19 Watch as your favorite fairytales come to life in “The Magic Books,” an original show written by Michael Barnard and Pasha Yamotahari from the Phoenix Theatre. In the production, classic fairytales will be set in the modern world like “Little Red Riding Hood,” “Sleeping Beauty,” “The Frog King” and more! “The Magic Books” is also educational and will ask the audience to use math, speak new languages and practice their grammar throughout the show. Follow the journeys of these adventurous characters during this fresh and fun performance! Phoenix Theatre, 100 E. McDowell Road, Phoenix, 602.254.2151, phoenixtheatre.com, times vary, $15

DISNEY ON ICE FROZEN JANUARY 13 THROUGH 18

Disney On Ice Frozen

JANUARY 13 THROUGH 18 Join Olaf, Anna, Elsa, Kristoff and

5 Convenient Locations

PIZZA - WINGS - CALZONES - PASTA - SANDWICHES - SALADS - WE DELIVER! ORDER ONLINE! WWW.VENEZIAS.COM WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

THE SHOWMAN

LISTEN » JAM » INNOVATE » EVOLVE » ROCK » SING

Live Music Calendar 100 Gem & Jam Festival 106 Marianas Trench 107

SECOND WIND S

Rejuvenated Vanessa Carlton to showcase new record at Livewire Damir Lolic » The Entertainer!

ince the release of her platinumselling debut album Be Not Nobody more than 13 years ago, Grammy-nominated singer/ songwriter Vanessa Carlton, has quietly continued to put out wonderful work. Her latest record Liberman is no exception. In fact, Carlton’s fifth studio album has exceeded expectations; generating raving reviews from respected publications across the country. Carlton can thank her grandfather Alan J. Lee, for painting the image that served as her spark. “The album was very much inspired by an oil painting my grandfather did in the ‘60s,” she says. “I realized I was staring at that painting, kind of getting lost in the psychedelic colors while I was writing the record.” In the last three years, the seasoned songstress has moved to Nashville, settled down with Deer Tick frontman John McCauley and even welcomed a baby girl last January. McCauley had a hand in helping craft three songs on the aforementioned album. “John is a really natural musician, there’s nothing contrived about his style or who he is,” she says. “There was no way I wasn’t going to ask him to be involved in the creative process. He contributed beautiful guitar and production work.” Now more curious than ever, Carlton believes she’s exploring different sounds and sentiments at this stage in her accomplished career.

“Earlier, I didn’t really take control of the sonic element of making albums until I met Steve Osborne and started working with him,” she says, hailing the Great Britain-based record producer for instigating a new chapter in her life. Carlton also mentioned how leaving the major label system helped boost her morale. “To be quite honest, I was very much sold and marketed as a pop-pianist, but that’s not really who I am,” she says. “I’m really interested in other types of sounds and I finally got the confidence to just go for it in 2010,” Carlton hasn’t looked back since then. When the New Year kicks off, Carlton will embark on the second leg of her tour, which will include a stop at Livewire on January 26. Accompanied on stage by all-around musician Skye Steele, Carlton is able to recreate the richness of the record. “The show is a little bit different than what fans would expect,” she says. “Skye’s able to record live on stage, so we create loops and play over that; stripping some songs down entirely, but also playing some of the old songs along the way.”

Vanessa Carlton

Livewire, 7320 E. Indian Plaza, Scottsdale, 480.361.9783, livewireaz.com, Tuesday, January 26, 7 p.m., $18 WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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’56 Rock & Roll Revue

Animal Soul

Singularity AZ

$5 Feature

JANUARY 4

JANUARY 7

Puddles Pity Party

Surfer Blood

Wild Horse Pass, 3 p.m., $10 Pub Rock Live, 7 p.m., $10-$12

LIVE MUSIC

CALENDAR

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $30

JANUARY 5 Willie Nelson & Family

Celebrity Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $71-$131

JANUARY 1 People Under the Stairs

Crescent Ballroom, 8:30 p.m., $20

Terminally Ill

Joe’s Grotto, 6 p.m., $5

Mike Eldred

Rhythm Room, 9 p.m., $8

JANUARY 2 Whiskey Shivers

Last Exit Live, 8 p.m., $10

Terminally Ill w/Grave Danger Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

Cold Shott & The Hurricane Horns Rhythm Room, 10 p.m., $8

Piano Man Tribute

Wild Horse Pass, 8 p.m., $20

Jerry Riopelle

Odd Folks

Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $8-$10

The Woodsmiths w/Andy Warpigs Yucca Tap Room, 9 p.m., free

Watch for Rocks

Crescent Ballroom, 7:30 p.m., $5

Yucca Tap Room, 9 p.m., free Club Red, 7 p.m., $5

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $15

Dustbowl Revival

Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $10-$12

Four Skin

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

JANUARY 8 Endoplasmic

Last Exit Live, 8:30 p.m., $7-$10

Donny Osmond

Wild Horse Pass, 8 p.m., $65-$135

Unstable Youth

Yucca Tap Room, 9 p.m., free

Talking Stick Resort, 8 p.m., $25-$75

JANUARY 6

JANUARY 3

2911 Church

Phoenix Blues Society Showcase

Young Heart

Zack Mufasa and Joel Castillo

Keith Anderson

Crescent Ballroom, 8:30 p.m., free

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $5 Last Exit Live, 8:30 p.m., $5

Rhythm Room, 8:30 p.m., $8 Pub Rock Live, 7:30 p.m., $15-$18

Action Jets

Club Red, 6 p.m., $5

Sand Rubies w/Pistoleros

Crescent Ballroom, 7 p.m., $3 adv, $5 dos

Todd Rundgren

Talking Stick Resort, 8 p.m., sold out

JANUARY 9 Captain Squeegee

Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $10

Wolves of Winter

Yucca Tap Room, 9 p.m., free

Bad News Blues Band Rhythm Room, 9 p.m., $8

Marmelade Skies

Cactus Jack’s, 8 p.m., $10

Greyhound Soul

Last Exit Live, 9 p.m., $7-$10

Macklemore & Ryan Lewis JANUARY 9

Comerica Theatre » 8 p.m. » $35-$67 Macklemore and Ryan Lewis make one badass pair, especially with their newest single “Downtown” hitting the streets. The rapper and DJ are bringing their upbeat sounds to Comerica Theatre, so grab your tickets for a chance to catch this hip-hop duo live.

WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

Modern Royal, Dogtooth & Nail Trunk Space, 7:30 p.m., $6

UFN

Club Red, 6 p.m., $10-$12

DJ Sean Watson

Crescent Ballroom, 5 p.m., $3 adv, $5dos

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

Seaons

Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $8-$10

Queensrÿche

Marquee Theatre, 5 p.m., $25

Zolopht

Yucca Tap Room, 9 p.m., free

JANUARY 13 Cruel Hand

Yucca Tap Room, 7:30 p.m., TBA

Run Forever

Trunk Space, 7 p.m., $7

Ben Anderson

Crescent Ballroom, 7:30 p.m., $5-$8

The Temptations

JANUARY 14

JANUARY 16

Broken Gold

Wild Horse Pass » 8 p.m. » $35-$99 It’s not just your imagination, The Temptations are bringing their smooth sounds to the Valley! These five friends were a huge hit back in the ‘60s and ‘70s, but their talent has never faded away. Catch their Motown tunes at Wild Horse Pass for a taste of nostalgia.

JANUARY 10

JANUARY 11

The Peach Kings

Wyatt Love

Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $8-$10

iAmJones

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

Leftover Crack

Marc Cohn

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $38-$48

JANUARY 15 Markus Schulz

Maya Day+Nightclub, 9 p.m., $15

Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $7

Mike Stud

Marquee Theatre, 8 p.m., $21

Dear Rabbit

Trunk Space, 7:30 p.m., $6

Nile Theater, 6 p.m., $13-$15

JANUARY 12

Teen Idols Tribute

Brazilian Girls

Wild Horse Pass, 3 p.m., $10

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

Tobie Milford

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $10-$12

Junior Watson w/Fred Kaplan Rhythm Room, 9 p.m., $12-$15

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $20-$25

BECK KID CUDI

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JANUARY 16 The Expendables

Marquee Theatre, 7 p.m., $15

Adelitas Way

Pub Rock Live, 8 p.m., $12-$15

Animus Complex

Club Red, 7 p.m., $10-$12

Rubedo

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

S.O.S. Band

Celebrity Theatre, 8 p.m., $20-$50

Phoenix Rock Lottery

Crescent Ballroom, 8:30 p.m., $12

Paul Oscher

Rhythm Room, 6 p.m., $15

Aggression Session

Mesa Amphitheatre, 3 p.m., $23-$78

Ladysmith Black Mambazo

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $53-$73

JANUARY 17 Marianas Trench

Marquee Theatre, 8 p.m., $20

School of Rock

Last Exit Live, 3 p.m., $10

Neoterics

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

STYX

Talking Stick Resort, 8 p.m., $35-$150

Car Seat Headrest

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $10-$12

THE

PORTER ANIMAL AVETT BROTHERS ROBINSON COLLECTIVE LIVE

GARY CLARK JR. • GRIZ • BLOC PARTY • ST. LUCIA GOLDFISH • BIG WILD • THE MAIN SQUEEZE • KALEO • BIRD DOG March 11-13, 2016

Hance Park, Phoenix, AZ • MMMF.com • #M3F

FIREKID • M!NT • CAPTAIN SQUEEGEE • THE HAYMARKET SQUARES • THE SENATORS

GUS CAMPBELL • HARPER & THE MOTHS • COOBEE COO • HUCKLEBERRY • FAIRY BONES • RUCA

WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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JANUARY 18 Stoney Point

Club Red, 7 p.m., $15-$20

JANUARY 19 Occasional Caucasians Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $7

JANUARY 20 Max Frost

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $12-$14

JANUARY 21 T.S.O.L w/Left Alone, Father Figures Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., $12-$14

Muskellunge w/Trumps and Thieves, The Sunpunchers Crescent Ballroom, 7:30 p.m., $5

JANUARY 22

Candye Kane

Rhythm Room, 9 p.m., $12

Lizz Wright

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $43-$63

JANUARY 23 Ruca

Last Exit Live, 9 p.m., $10

I Remember Burning

Pub Rock Live, 7:30 p.m., $10

Dead of Winterfest 2016 Club Red, 4 p.m., $15-$20

Harper and The Moths

Crescent Ballroom, 8:30 p.m., $7-$10

Ian Moore

Rhythm Room, 6 p.m., $12-$15

JANUARY 24 Madeon

Marquee Theatre, 8 p.m., $28-$48

Chance Tinder’s Tribute to Elvis

Big Head Todd and The Monsters

Cactus Jack’s, 8 p.m., $13 adv, $15 dos

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., sold out

Burton Cummings

Honeygirl

Wild Horse Pass, 8 p.m., $33-$83

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

Go Betty Go w/The Two Tens

Big Head Todd and The Monsters

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

Traitors

Nile Theater, 6 p.m., $12-$14

Buena Vista Social Club

Crescent Ballroom, 8:30 p.m., $12$90

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., sold out

Future Soul w/The Otte Demos, Saving Kings

Rhythm Room, 6:30 p.m., $11 adv, $14 dos

Never Shout Never JANUARY 19

Marquee Theatre » 7 p.m. » $20 If you were a teen back in 2007, Never Shout Never was on all of your mix CDs. Back then, it was a one-man indie rock band featuring Christofer Drew, a 16-year-old kid who got famous on MySpace. Today, he’s gained a guitarist and a drummer. You can hear songs from their newest full-length, Black Cat, when they perform at the Marquee Theatre.

JANUARY 25 Killing Joke

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $25-$100

JANUARY 26 Jim Bachmann

Crescent Ballroom, 7:30 p.m., free

JANUARY 27 G. Love & Special Sauce

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $25-$99

Vox Vocis w/And Then Suddenly

Yucca Tap Room, 9 p.m., free

Bobby Rush

Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $20-$22

JANUARY 28

Vanessa Carlton JANUARY 26

Livewire » 7 p.m. » $18 You won’t have to walk a thousand miles to see this talented singer/ songwriter live. After completing the School of American Ballet, Vanessa Carlton decided singing was her true passion. She performed in New York City clubs before signing with her first record label. You’ve probably heard her most popular single “A Thousand Miles,” which reached top five on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 2002. WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

Mustard Plug w/Dan Potthast Yucca Tap Room, 7 p.m., $12-$14

The Redemptions

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $10

JANUARY 29 EDX

Maya Day+Nightclub, 9 p.m., $10

Ghost Walk w/Sons of Providence, The Spider Hole Club Red, 7 p.m., $10-$12

Tierra Firme w/Citrus Clouds Yucca Tap Room, 9 p.m., free

The 44s

Rhythm Room, 9:20 p.m., $10

JANUARY 30 Trivium

Pressroom, 8 p.m., $16-$20

The Devil Makes Three

Marquee Theatre, 8 p.m., $20

Prove It

Club Red, 6 p.m., $10-$12

Larry Hernandez

Celebrity Theatre, 8:30 p.m., $45-$95

Dave Riley

Rhythm Room, 9 p.m., $8

JANUARY 31 Seanzy w/Rumor Has It

Pub Rock Live, 7:30 p.m., $10-$12

Eight Bells w/Ghost Island, No Shores Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

Gallows Bound

Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $10

104

ROOTING FOR THE

HOME TEAM

‘Bama fans The Band Perry play AT&T Playoff Playlist Live! Christina Fuoco-Karasinski » The Entertainer!

he Band Perry’s Reid Perry calls tentatively and asks if he’s dialed the right extension for an interview. He’s relatively shy behind the scenes, but he lets his guard down when he talks about his home state and The Band Perry’s love of the Alabama Crimson Tide. “We grew up in Mobile, Alabama, so whenever you grow up there, you have to pick as a child whether you’re Auburn or Alabama,” says Perry, who was calling from New York City where he and his siblings—Neil and Kimberly—were to play the lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. “All of us chose Alabama. If they actually go all the way to the championship, we’re going to hang around and go to the game.” Of course he’s referring to the Cotton Bowl, where the Crimson Tide take on the Spartans of Michigan State on Thursday, December 31. The winner heads to the College Football National Championship Game. Grammy Award-winning The Band Perry is among the slew of stars playing the free AT&T Playoff Playlist Live! WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

concert series in Downtown Phoenix near the Phoenix Convention Center that coincides with the championship game. The lineup features The Band Perry and David Nail on Friday, January 8; Ciara and Walk the Moon on Saturday, January 9; and John Mellencamp, Andy Grammer and Moon Taxi on Sunday, January 10. Gates open at 12 p.m. each day. Perry says the set will include a few songs slated to appear on the upcoming Heart + Beat record that is due out in the beginning of 2016. “We keep most of those tracks under the radar until they’re out,” he says. “We want people to hear the track first before they hear it live. “We love gigantic singalongs. We construct our set so we have a lot of opportunities to talk with the crowd and to the crowd, and to have those gigantic singalongs. We have a lot of energy as well. Playing live was our first love—before we were doing interviews or writing songs. It is our favorite thing we do in this music thing, if you will.” The Band Perry takes all of this into consideration when it is recording and writing songs as well. “Whenever we write songs, we always

do think of them in a live sense,” Perry explains. “We’re huge Queen fans. They wrote gigantic melodies that worked themselves into big singalongs. It’s Freddy Mercury’s influence there.” That influence has helped The Band Perry crossover into pop radio and pop listeners’ heads. Also aiding in that was an appearance on the CMT show “Crossroads,” in which The Band Perry teamed with pop masters Fall Out Boy. The similarities and the differences between the bands were striking. “When we were all walking in to rehearse, we knew it was going to be good because we all showed up in black leather,” Perry explains. “The other great thing about it was we actually were no longer the shortest people up on stage. Even Kimberly with heels was taller than some of the boys there. We had a fun time, though. We love what they do and to be able to play with them and see how they, as a band, work, interact and operate, it was fun for us.” Heart + Beat will carry on that pop sensibility, says Perry, whose band will return to play The Good Life Festival at Encanterra in San Tan Valley on Saturday,

March 5. For its third album, The Band Perry wrote with Diplo and Pharrell Williams, among others. “We spent two days with him, writing,” Perry says of Williams. “It’s a really great song, but what I loved about him were the conversations we had. He talked about the process of writing, what the song’s about—talking in general. “His philosophy is the visuals are just as important as the sonics. That’s always resonated with us. We think musically with our eyes. We always envision these images and visuals in our heads. To be able to find a guy who thinks along the same lines was really cool.”

The Band Perry

Downtown Phoenix, collegefootballplayoff.com/ events, Friday, January 8, gates open at 12 p.m., free Encanterra’s Good Life Festival, 36460 N. Encanterra Dr., San Tan Valley, 888-856-3727, thegoodlifefest.com, Saturday, March 5, 6 p.m., $25 to $75.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

105

THINGS ARE ‘LOOKING UP’

FOR SAFETYSUIT W

Upbeat single shows new side of Nashville band Christina Fuoco-Karasinski » The Entertainer! hen SafetySuit released its uplifting new song “Looking Up” recently, there were a few skeptics who posted their thoughts on the Nashville band’s Facebook page. “Looking Up” was much peppier than SafetySuit’s lovelorn hit singles “Stay” and “Get Around This.” However, “Looking Up” was a natural progression. “It’s a lot different,” singer Doug Brown acknowledges. “We try to write songs to make you feel good, but we don’t necessarily make them sound happy. It’s a happy sounding song. “We were like, ‘Let’s get out of our comfort zone a little bit and record something that’s going to sound happy from the first downbeat all the way to the end of the song.’” SafetySuit’s plan worked. “Looking Up” has made headway into listeners’ brains, as it has been added to satellite and terrestrial radio stations.

“The fans have enjoyed the fact that it is lighter and poppier because, at the same time, it still has the SafetySuit roots in there,” says Brown, whose sister-in-law lives in the Valley. “That’s important our core fans.” The mood of “Looking Up” mirrors that of SafetySuit. “I think, overall, the band has always been a happier group of guys than most,” he says. “There’s a difference between recording a song that maybe you think will be positive to somebody and recording a song that will sonically match that message. “Sometimes you can be saying something positive and uplifting, but you can be saying it over a music bed that, if you weren’t paying attention, lyrics you wouldn’t know what’s going on.” Brown is looking forward to playing it live, something the act had yet to do as of mid-December. Fans can expect to hear it—and five or six other new tracks— when the band returns to the Valley to play the Marquee Theatre on Saturday, February 6. The tunes will be part of a new album that’s in the offing. “It’s definitely upbeat,” Brown says of

the album. “It’s a little happier. Overall it’s just a really beautiful combination of the first two records. It’s got all the power and excitement of our bigger stuff and, at the same time, it honed our songwriting skills. Our songs, at the core, are better songs. They’re written better, but that’s just a byproduct of writing a lot. Hopefully you’re better than you were when you started.” “Looking Back” is SafetySuit’s first new single in about two years. Brown says the break wasn’t intentional. It was a matter of circumstance. “There are a lot of things that went into it,” he says. “Mainly, we went through a lot of changes with labels and managers. Everything that happens on the business side of things takes 10 times longer than you expected to. “Getting into new ones [business relationships] takes time. All of a sudden you’ve been working the whole time—a year and a half—and you don’t realize it. On our side of the fence, we’ve been doing something the whole time.” Because he’s so entrenched in his new album, Brown hasn’t had time to listen to other acts’ music, save for British

singer Jack Garratt, who sings the song “Weathered.” Brown says, for the most part, he’s a fan of lyrics. “I would prefer to have the person saying something,” he says. “But I like the dumb dumb stuff just as much as the next guy, too. I don’t mind listening to something that’s blurting out the same word over and over. “I think lyrics though, kind of make people attach to the artist a little bit more.” Back to its 2016 headlining run, Brown excited about serving up something new to his fans. “We’re playing the typical 90-minute set and have the new ones mixed in between the fan favorites and the old stuff,” he says. “You can get excited about your new material and want to play it all. But fans that I love have played their way through the new record and it can be frustrating because you can’t get into it because you know the new stuff. There will be plenty of new material, so you don’t feel like you’re seeing the same old show.”

SafetySuit w/Connell Cruise

Marquee Theatre, 730 N. Mill Avenue, Tempe, 480.829.0607, luckymanonline.com, 8 p.m. Saturday, February 6, $16 WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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IT’S ROCKIN’

Gem & Jam brings a variety of acts to Tucson Joshua Hammond » The Entertainer!

ucson’s Gem & Jam gives a whole new meaning to “Let’s rock.” Held in conjunction with the Tucson Gem, Mineral and Fossil showcase, Gem & Jam brings to town the best in jam and electronic music, while teaching conertgoers how to shake their thang. Musicians will hit three stages for the event sponsored by Infinite Music, Euphonic Conceptions, New Earth MuZIQ and Challenger. Headliners includes the livetronica performance

art band Beats Antique, funk mainstays Lettuce and electronic musician and DJ the Polish Ambassador. Curating a Gem & Jam stage is Soulection, a combination record label, radio show and niche collective of music makers that the Los Angeles Times called a “bass-heavy, groove-oriented blend of hot new remixes of rap and soul tracks.” Sango, Esta, Joe Key, Insightful, and The Whooligans will hit the Soulection stage. Rounding out the 2016 Gem & Jam lineup will be a DJ set from Tycho, as well as appearances by Nahko and Medicine for the People, Minnesota, OTT (UK), a live set from Lyrics Born, Break Science with The Shady Horns, Mushroom Jazz creator Mark Farina, Eliot Lipp of Pretty Lights, Desert Dwellers, Dirtwire (featuring members of Beats Antique), Govinda, Delhi 2 Dublin, Exmag, Krooked Drivers and Marvel Years. Along with an overabundance of gem and mineral exhibits, art galleries and painters, dancers, performers, daytime workshops, late night after parties, the festival will be place in the backdrop of the beautiful Southwestern desert landscape. Throughout the festival transcendent visuals will be on display,

created by featured artist Johnathan Singer (Grateful Dead’s “Fare Thee Well” and Tipper). Three-day, general admission tickets begin at $139. VIP tickets, which allow festival attendees additional access to stages and bathrooms, can be purchases in three levels: Tourmaline ($1,899), Aquamarine ($1,199) and Smokey Quartz ($799). While the festival itself doesn’t provide lodging, the Tucson area is rich with camping facilities. Catalina, Picacho Peak and Kartchner Caverns state parks will host tent sleepers during the festival, while Tucson Mountain Park will offer 150 drive-in facilities for RVs.

Gem & Jam

1102 W. Grant Street, Tucson, gemandjamfestival.com, 12 p.m., Friday, February 12, through Sunday, February 14, $139 to $1,899 WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

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BACK IN TIME

1980s pop culture fanatics Marianas Trench create the perfect tribute to a lost era Christina Fuoco-Karasinski » The Entertainer!

itting around a dinner table one night after a show, the Vancouver emo/pop band Marianas Trench tossed around ideas for the followup to its 2011 fairytale-themed album Ever After. The band, including bassist Mike Ayley, agreed to write music that recalled the best of 1980s pop culture. The result is Astoria. “We were totally going for capturing some of that ‘80s essence,” says Ayley, calling from a tour stop in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. “New Wave has been done a bit. We wanted to do our own interpretation of that era of music. It sounds like the Eurythmics, the Police, Michael Jackson, Tears for Fears, Depeche Mode—a lot of those sorts of really influential and cool bands at that time.” But the concept isn’t only about the music. Movies—particularly “The Goonies” and “E.T.”—played a heavy hand in the presentation and the music. The band loved the idea of recalling kids in unrealistic adventures who beat the odds to succeed, as in the J.J. Abrams throwback movie “Super 8.” Astoria’s cartoonish cover and its title are odes to “The Goonies.” Marianas Trench’s fourth studio album, Astoria follows a slew of nominated and

award-winning collections. On its mantles, Marianas Trench boasts MuchMusic Video Awards and Western Canadian Music Awards, among others. But in 2013, it won the Juno—Canada’s equivalent of the Grammys—for Group of the Year. Singer/ guitarist Josh Ramsay received a Grammy nom for co-writing “Call Me Maybe” with fellow Canuck Carly Rae Jepsen. Marianas Trench is hoping for similar accolades for Astoria, an album that Ayley says was easy to record after a series of tragedies. Ramsay’s singer/mother was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia, a debilitating disease described as a cross between Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, according to Marianas Trench’s bio. As his mother got sicker, his relationship with his fiancé ended and he was hospitalized. When the hospitalization wrapped up, Ramsay was inspired to write again and Marianas Trench’s musicians were equally as stoked. “This is the most fun we’ve had recording any album,” Ayley says. “The first one was cool because it was new. “But we did most of the recording in Josh’s condo or apartment. We had all the recording gear there except for drums. It was more comfortable in a home environment.” That “environment” included decorating the room with vinyl records and “Indiana Jones” posters—anything to

recreate that ‘80s feel. “It was an artistic place and a very nurturing environment for creativity,” he says. “We could come and go as we pleased, but we ended up coming in all the time. It was really cool to have that process. I feel like that’s a similar process to how we’ll work in the future.” Astoria has given Marianas Trench something it has yet to have: a breakthrough hit in the United States. The yearning ballad “One Love” has been added to pop radio stations’ playlists throughout the country as well as Sirius/XM. “One Love—finally just got that add,” Ayley says. “I remember the day they first spun it. That’s really cool. “The song has a lot of feeling. If I had to pick one song that captured the embodiment of the album and sort of emotional content of it, that would be a pretty good example. We thought that was a good one.” Thanks to that exposure, Marianas Trench’s U.S. fanbase is growing, Ayley acknowledges. The band plays anywhere between 700- and 1,100-capacity venues here, however, the musicians are hoping to increase its following. “We want more people to hear us,” Ayley says. “We want to bring our full arena production down here and show you guys what we’ve really got.”

Ayley is no way shooting down the club show it’ll play at the Marquee Theatre on Sunday, January 17. Ayley is particularly excited to play in Arizona, as his dad and stepmother have a winter home in Scottsdale. It marks the first time Marianas Trench has performed in Arizona, he adds. “It’s cool to see new places, too,” he says. “Even though I only get a couple hours in a day to explore, I still get a taste of it. I have my hit list of all the cities I want to do on short vacations. It’s growing rapidly.” Fans can expect to hear a slew of songs from Astoria, as well as a Marianas Trench retrospective. “By then we should have every song on the album up to speed,” he says. “As for the setlist, we’re unsure. The one we currently have is flowing very, very well, but we have to add in the last two songs—‘Yesterday’ and ‘Wildfire.’ “We’ve got to get those going,” he says. “They’re good songs.”

Marianas Trench

Marquee Theatre, 730 N. Mill Avenue, Tempe, 480.829.0607, luckymanonline.com, 7 p.m. Sunday, January 17, $20 to $125 WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

THE NIGHTOWL

109

SIP » UNLEASH » MIX » MINGLE » PULSE » SHAKE

Horoscopes 114

Tipsy Drink of the Month 110 Nightlife Photos 111

MAD MIXOLOGIST

Getting down and dirty with the Valley’s hottest shot slingers What is your No. 1 pet peeve when working? After being in the industry for so many years you get used to people and their ways or indecisiveness. I would have to say that my biggest one would be the “string order.” When someone tells you their order you have it all prepared and then they need to tack on to it. This is especially nerve racking with shots that need to be prepped. What is your go-to drink when you’re at a bar other than your own? Easy. White Russian with a Frangelico float! Drink of choice for the night! What does ordering a Bailey’s on the rocks say about a person? I’d say that they are a casual drinker. Usually having one for the night or for an after-dinner drink. Typically a “one and done” type guest. Breanne DeMore » The Entertainer!

t hasn’t taken long for Topgolf Gilbert to be one of the best places in Gilbert to grab a drink and hang out with some friends and family. The more-than-a-driving range has become one of the most fun places around. And according to lead bartender Scott Davis, it is a great place to grab cocktails, as well. We chatted with Davis about odd drink orders and his favorite cocktails.

The Entertainer!: Tell me about the oddest drink request you’ve gotten. Guests usually have little quirks or modifiers that they like. But, the drink that stands out the most is a girl used to order Rumplemintz and Mountain Dew—which is 100 proof schnapps. hat has always stood out in my mind as an odd one!

What do you like about this drink, Texas Mule My drink of choice to offer to a guest that might be on the fence or my go-to would be our Texas Mule. With the popularity of mules right now this is an easy sell. We use Tito’s Vodka which is from Texas (as is our home office) and is also a gluten-free vodka, muddle a couple of fresh limes to really get the flavor in the vodka, and then top with Gosling’s ginger beer. The final outcome is a nice, clean and crisp refreshing cocktail!

MAKE YOUR OWN

TEXAS MULE 1 1/4 oz. Tito’s Vodka 2 lime wedges, squeezed 3 oz. ginger beer

Combine the vodka and juice from the lime wedges and ginger beer in a 12 oz. Collins glass over ice. Garnish with a lime wedge on the side of the glass.

Topgolf

1689 E. Santan Village Parkway, Gilbert, 480.240.1282, topgolf.com WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

110

E SHIP2SHIP

Destructo’s Holy Ship! lands ashore with Justin Martin and Rezz in Tow Dylan Arndt » The Entertainer!

lectronic dance music cruises are all the rage lately with outings like Mad Decent Boat Party, Groove Cruise and HARD’s Holy Ship! These weeklong excursions are filled with days and nights of partying, hanging out with some of the world’s most highly coveted DJs, sailing the high waters of the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, and creating fond memories. Well, the bad news is that most of these adventures are costly and often require a decent amount of travel to get to—especially from here in Arizona. The good news is that for all of us who can’t afford these lofty vacations, HARD’s own Gary Richards, or Destructo as the dance music populace knows him, is bringing us the next best thing with his Holy Ship! SHIP2SHIP Tour featuring himself, Justin Martin and Rezz. Sure, there is no ocean beneath our feet, nor do we get to sip (or chug) classy cocktails with celebrities. We do get to sample some of the raw flavors that these artists would be throwing down on the ship, and we all know we really go for the music. With Destructo’s SHIP2SHIP

Tour, Richards intends on stopping in 14 cities between the porting of the January Holy Ship! voyage and the departure of the February outing. The tour kicks off in Austin, Texas, and follows with visits to Denver, Seattle, Phoenix, Toronto and more. Supporting acts Martin and Rezz are quickly making names for themselves, receiving strong support from Destructo early on. Along with Claude VanStroke, Martin co-founded Dirtybird, a San Francisco-based techno label. Rezz, or Isabelle Rezazadeh, found success through her pitch-black and hypnotic music, reminiscent in style to French-tech producer, Gesaffelstein. Although it’s no cruise liner, you’re not going to want to miss this unique mix of Caribbean vibes and trippy techno music. It’ll make for one Saturday night you won’t soon forget.

SHIP2SHIP

Monarch Theatre, 122 E. Washington Street, Phoenix, relentlessbeats. com, Saturday, January 30, 9 p.m., $15-$20

TIPSY DRINK OF THE MONTH Cheers to a new year with this sipper from Casablanca Lounge

estled along the canal in Old Town Scottsdale, Casablanca Lounge boasts unbeatable panoramic views and a warm, charming atmosphere. Their patios are the perfect place to relax with friends and enjoy one of their exotic cocktails while taking in the desert views. Inside you will find an elegantly decorated lounge that serves dishes made from locally grown ingredients, entertains with live music, and sports one of the largest whisky and bourbon selections around. Whether you are dancing to the music of the band inside, or enjoying a cigar on their scenic rooftop patio, you are bound to be impressed by the scene at Casablanca Lounge. The cocktails served are sure to impress as much as the venue itself. We met with Ashlynn and MJ, two longtime bartenders at Casablanca, who mixed

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us up one of their unique signature drinks, Altogether Lovely. Its name definitely does this cocktail justice, as the orchid and cucumber infused ice cubes are striking and beautiful. “Everybody gets a kick out of the Altogether Lovely, the muddled fruits and herbs give it fresh flavor, and the edible orchid and cucumber infused ice cubes definitely enhance that fresh element,” Ashlynn tells us. The All Together Lucky is an inspired drink as well. MJ explained, “Our house musician has a song titled Altogether Lovely, which the entire staff here loves. So, we bartenders got together to create this drink to compliment that song.” Casablanca Lounge is an absolute must go to venue in Old Town. Not only are their cocktails and entertainment worth the visit, but the food is exceptional as well. They offer a weekly rotating menu that offers diners only the freshest, locally grown ingredients. If you haven’t been here yet, stop by and get the All Together Lucky you won’t regret it. Don’t forget to tell them that Tipsy sent you! For more information about Casablanca Lounge, download the TIPSY app and check its profile. Tipsy members receive vouchers every month redeemable for complimentary drinks, front-of-the-line passes and no-cover-charge entry to more than 45 bars and clubs in Scottsdale, Tempe and Phoenix. Tipsy is available on Android and iOS. Visit imtipsy.com for more information.

The Casablanca Lounge

7134 E. Stetson Dr., Scottsdale 85251 thecasablancalounge.com

ALTOGETHER LOVELY

Muddled Basil & Cucumber 1 ½ oz. Hendrick’s Gin ¾ oz. elderflower liqueur ½ oz. lime juice ½ oz. simple syrup top off with ½ soda ½ sprite poured over edible orchid and cucumber infused ice cubes Start off the year right with exquisite cocktails, live music and one of the best patio views in Old Town with Tipsy at The Casablanca Lounge.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2016

111

WE WERE THERE— WHERE WERE YOU?

Mint Ultra Lounge on Wednesday, December 23

Every Wednesday night The Mint Ultra Lounge presents Project M! This weekly soirée is one of the biggest industry nights in Scottsdale and features a wide range of local talent as well as world renowned guest DJs. VIP reservations are encouraged by calling 480.516.9748. PHOTOS BY JACOB TYLER DUNN

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112

FEEL GOOD TRANCE

Markus Schulz returns with his sick beats Jasmine Kemper » The Entertainer!

ll his life, German-American DJ and music producer Markus Schulz has had a passion for music, helping shape the trance and progressive music scene with his distinct beats. Schulz emigrated to the United States from Germany at the age of 13, when the breakdance scene in America was just getting its start. It was then that his love for the turntable began to flourish. Today, the successful DJ is known around the world, performing at some of the biggest EDM festivals, including the Electric Daisy Carnival, Electric Zoo, Ultra Music Festival, Love Parade and many others. When he’s not DJing, Schulz is recognized for his work on the weekly radio show “Global DJ Broadcast” and is also the founder of Coldharbour Recordings and Schulz Music Group. This talented music man, who formerly lived in Arizona, has had the chance to collaborate with some major names in the industry, such as Madonna, Fatboy Slim, Depeche Mode and more. His remixes of “Intuition” and “Stand” by American singer Jewel even reached No. 1 on the Billboard club chart. Through his work, he’s been ranked on the world’s top 10 DJs list in DJ Magazine and even won the Best American DJ at the International Dance Music Awards show in 2008. Start your weekend with some sick beats as Steve Levine Entertainment and Disco Donnie present DJ Markus Schulz at Maya Day + Nightclub. He’ll take control of the stage on Friday, January 15, at 9 p.m.

Maya Day + Nightclub

7333 E. Indian Plaza, Scottsdale, 480.625.0528, mayaclubaz.com, Friday, January 15, 9 p.m., $15 WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

SCOTTSDALE RD SHEA BLVD DIRTY DOGG SALOON

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THE BEST NIGHTLIFE Mike Stud EVENTS FOR JANUARY

Macklemore & Ryan Lewis

JANUARY 9 A lot can happen in three years, just ask hip-hop duo Macklemore & Ryan Lewis. In 2012, their debut album The Heist, featured not one, but two No. 1 singles on the U.S. Billboard Top 100 chart. Fast forward to three years and four Grammy Awards later, the duo will play their first show of the new year when they bring the “An Evening with Macklemore & Ryan Lewis Tour” to Phoenix. Comerica Theatre, 400 W Washington Street, Phoenix, 602.379.2800, comericatheatre. com, 8 p.m., $35-70

A-Trak

JANUARY 14 The highly decorated Canadian DJ, record producer and music label executive has mastered turntablism. Known for uniting the sounds of rap and electronic music, A-Trak owns a record label, clothing line and

several DJ competition titles. With nearly two decades of relevance under his belt, A-Track will showcase his A-game at Livewire. Livewire, 7320 E. Indian Plaza, Scottsdale, 480.970.6980, livewireaz.com, 9 p.m., not available

Markus Schulz

JANUARY 15 The German-American leader of ceremonies honed his skills holding a seven-year residency at The Works in Phoenix before performing at clubs around the world. Schulz has been hailed by DJ Magazine in its annual Top 100 DJ Poll on multiple occasions, providing trance goers endless mixes to salivate over. Check out the internationally acclaimed DJ when he brings his set to Maya Day and Nightclub. Maya Day + Nightclub, 733 E. Indian Plaza, Scottsdale, 480.625.0528, mayaclubaz.com, 9 p.m., $15

JANUARY 15 Former NCAA Division I baseball player turned rapper Mike Stud, has made a name for himself off the diamond through his clever rhymes. Turning to music while recovering from Tommy John surgery, Stud took his passion for hip hop and made it more than just an activity to pass time with while he was on the mend. Since 2011, Stud has put out three albums and five mixtapes, proving that his work ethic is second to none. Marquee Theatre, 730 N. Mill Avenue, Tempe, 480.829.0607, luckymanonline.com, 7 p.m., $47-$62

Tigerlily

JANUARY 22 The Australian mixologist catapulted onto the international scene with her 2015 single, “Paradise.” Tigerlily quickly caught the attention of Tiesto, who chose her to be his main support act on his Asia and North America tours. Already gracing some of the world’s most well-known stages, her shows are as eye-catching as her long teal hair. Urbane Manner, 4363 N. 75th Street, Scottsdale, 480.990.1322, urbanemanner.com, 9 p.m., $10

Mark Farina

JANUARY 23 A pioneering disc jockey and musician, Mark Farina has had an illustrious career spanning three decades. Performing more than 100 shows a year, Farina is known for his trademark “Mushroom Jazz” style. Farina’s shows casually have him playing two different rooms at the same party with sets lasting up to eight hours. Monarch Theatre, 122 E. Washington Street, Tempe, 480.289.0607, monarchtheatre.com, 9 p.m., $28

Madeon

JANUARY 24 Baby-faced French EDM producer Madeon, began composing music at the age of 11. Gaining notoriety through his video “Pop Culture”, Madeon has went on to tour with Lady Gaga and Swedish House Mafia, among other popular artists. His debut album Adventure was released in early 2015 and the Frenchman is all set to embark on a North American tour promoting the aforementioned album in January. Madeon Pixel Empire Tour, Marquee Theatre, 730 N. Mill Avenue, Tempe, 480.829.0607, luckymanonline.com, 7:30 p.m., $28

ODDLY ACCURATE ASTROLOGY What does January hold for your social life? Weiss Kelly » The Entertainer!

CAPRICORN »

December 22 – January 19 Happy Birthday, Capricorn! Your energy is high and you’re starting this year off on a good foot— personally and financially. That romance from last month still has hope but wait to buy any hip purchases until the end of the month, Jupiter will bring you plenty of blessings this year and your professional life will experience tremendous growth!

AQUARIUS »

January 20 – February 18 January is your month to join in with others and take on a more active part in this month’s festivities. No other sign is as socially minded. You’re never at a lost for friends and invitations. Around January 25, your area of interest will shift back to work and making some big, definite changes in the month ahead.

PISCES »

February 19 – March 20 Expect some good news to arrive around the new moon on January 10. In the meantime, get moving and taking advantage of everything happening in your own town. There can be a lack of meeting people on your own so eagerly meet friends of friends—they might be someone special!

ARIES »

March 21 – April 21 Your New Year will start off on the right foot if you stay alert of all the new opportunities that present themselves this month. Your focus is on your career and your health and you really should keep those resolutions in mind moving forward. Focus on developing or learning new skills or interests this month.

TAURUS »

April 22 – May 20 The Taurus sign is all about luck in the year ahead. Jupiter will bring you some lucky aspects in the first half of the year. Plus, you will be lucky in love and earning (though remember to save some for a rainy day). Your social life will be varied and filled to the brim this month.

GEMINI »

May 21 – June 21 Say goodbye to 2015 and hello to 2016! You can look forward to making new friends, having better work conditions and maybe some new interests! You are at a creative fork in the road, but follow your heart on which path to take. Give a romantic fling more thought—he or she may actually be worth your time!

CANCER »

June 22 – July 22 No more lone Cancers in 2016. You’ll be highly in demand in this month, especially those in the performing arts. An agreement or contract of sort will result in some compromising with others. Take your time any time money is involved. January 25 will have you seeing things in a new perspective.

LEO »

July 23 – August 22 Your holiday celebrations and invites never seem to end! No other sign is so adept at taking advantage of all the activities, people and events that the first half month has to offer than you! Utilize the first month of the New Year to finish up on some leftover issues or obligations, so you can make a fresh new start. Singles Leos shouldn’t expect to be alone long!

VIRGO »

August 23 – September 22 Much to your own surprise you will being working on yourself this month, including your own appearance. 2016 will be your lucky year and you’ll see that mostly in the first half. Your career could see some serious advancements soon though watch the week of January 24 for work issues to arise.

LIBRA »

September 23 – October 22 Be prepared to make some major adjustments regarding your financial status around midmonth, but that should not prevent you from spending money on January’s full calendar of things to do, places to go and people to meet. The first six months of 2016 will require a more practical approach in the love department.

SCORPIO »

October 23 – November 21 2016 will be full of new things for Scorpios and they will all be good and promising for the future. Your finances will be more stable and your romance will be a good place. A new sense of social values will replace your old interest. Try something new this month! Expect to be on a new personal and educational learning curve at work.

SAGITTARIUS »

November 22 – December 21 Travel should be a focus this month. January brings a number of promises from others and if you commit to any at this time, you’ll be in it for the long haul. Enjoy January’s sense of freedom with all the newness it brings. The end of the month will be more productive and demanding.

Weiss Kelly is a Valley-based astrologer and Professional Member of the American Federation of Astrologers. For your personal 2015 forecast recorded on a CD, send her an inquiry email at weissastro@aol.com or call 480.600.7424.

WWW.ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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THE

THINKER

YOU’RE NOT GONNA BELIEVE THIS

Bizarro facts that will stretch your noggin

Igloos can be 100 degrees warmer inside than outside thanks to body heat.

On January 20, 1933, Phoenix was hit with a whopping 1 INCH OF SNOW, a record that still stands today.

CHIONO PHOBIA is an unrelenting fear of snow— especially being trapped in it.

The largest snowball fight was on January 12, 2013, in Seattle with

5,834 participants.

The average

SNOWFLAKE falls at about 3 miles per hour.

The world’s largest recorded

was built in Bethel, Maine, at

FEET, 7 INCHES TALL.

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kills more than twice as many Americans as

SUMMER HEAT.

SNOWMAN

113

WINTER COLD

Millions of monarch butterflies travel 2,500 MILES to Mexico each year to escape harsh winters.

Demir and his team run a thorough set of tests to find the root cause of the pain, be it gynecologic, urologic, gastrointestinal or even psychiatric. The team at Desert Women’s Care assesses all possibilities to find the correct diagnosis and implement the most effective treatment plan.

DESERT WOMEN’S CARE Let us help

(855) OBGYN AZ

At Desert Women’s Care, Dr. Richard Demir specializes in helping women cure their chronic pelvic pain. Dr. Demir and his team run a thorough set of tests to find the root cause of the pain, be it gynecologic, urologic, gastrointestinal or even psychiatric. The team at Desert Women’s Care assesses all possibilities to find the correct diagnosis and implement the most effective treatment plan.

www.DesertWomensCare.com two convenient locations: 80 N. McClintock Dr, Suite 104 Chandler, 85226 DESERT WOMEN’S CARE 9377 E. Bell Road,AZ Suite 225 (855) OBGYN

www.DesertWomensCare.com Scottsdale, 85260 two convenient locations: 80 N. McClintock Dr, Suite 104 Chandler, 85226 9377 E. Bell Road, Suite 225 Scottsdale, 85260 Dr. Richard Demir

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