www.SanTanSun.com
Arts
November 16 - December 6, 2013
55
Messina heads to Rawhide Nov. 23 BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI
Busy from a day full of radio interviews promoting the CMA Awards, Grammy-nominated country star Jo Dee Messina is surprisingly in a good mood. She laughs easily and takes even the most difficult subjects in stride. Messina, known for her hits “My Give a Damn’s Busted,” “Bring on the Rain” (with Tim McGraw) and “That’s the Way,” is excited to get a little sun in the East Valley. She performs at Rawhide as part of the “Rawhide Wild West Celebration” weekend on Sat., Nov. 23. Messina says she will perform songs from her forthcoming album, “Me,” during the concert, which also features The Swon Brothers, Frankie Ballard and Brodie Stewart. “Me” was funded through the crowdfunding platform Kickstarter.com. Her goal was $100,000; she raised $121,743 thanks to 1,017 backers in 30 days. “It was very nerve-wracking,” Messina says. “You had 30 days to fund the record or none of the money was collected. “I thought everyone knew what Kickstarter was. But they didn’t. I had to educate people (saying), ‘No, we’re not asking for money. You get something for your donation.’ It’s like having a garage sale. I use the money from the yard sale to make a record. That was really mindblowing to me that people didn’t get it.” Some of the gifts that fans received in return to donations were a chance to perform on “Me,” a private concert with Messina, CDs, posters, photo books and phone calls from her. The album is set for release on March 18, however, Kickstarter participants will receive it earlier. The project was a group effort, Messina says. Not only did listeners fund “Me,” they chose the songs for it as well as the first single, “Peace Sign.” The song received 220,000 votes.
COMING TO TOWN: Jo Dee Messina will perform tracks from her forthcoming album, “Me,” at Rawhide on Nov. 23. Submitted photo
“Via Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, I posted songs and asked people to give me your input,” Messina says. “They chose every song—including the single. They got to make the record with me. I let them pick the name of the album. It’s ‘Me.’ It’s the title of a song.” Now was the perfect time for Messina to go independent. After spending her career on record labels, they decided to part ways. “I did research,” she says. “I hired a company and had them research ‘the brand’—the brand of Jo Dee Messina— and tell me what they found out. “They found very useful information. We did the Kickstarter thing and they all showed up. It’s a way to
engage my fans and show them that they’re appreciated. These guys will move mountains for me and it’s not taken for granted.” Jo Dee Messina, The Swon Brothers, Frankie Ballard and Brodie Stewart perform at 6 p.m. Sat., Nov. 23, at Rawhide Western Town, 5700 W. North Loop Rd., Chandler. Tickets are $10.79 to $85. For more information, visit http:// rawhidewildwestcelebration.com/concert.html. Christina Fuoco-Karasinski is the editor of the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at christina@ santansun.com.
FA S T A N D F R E E H E A LT H I N S U R A N C E Q U O T E S F R O M M U LT I P L E C A R R I E R S
Confused About Health Care Reform? Call or visit our website TODAY for a FREE consultation to determine which option fits you best: ON EXCHANGE -or- OFF EXCHANGE Health Plans
Individual / Family Plans Plans for Small Business / Self Employed Dental / Vision Life Insurance Accident / Disability / Illness The Most Protection For The Lowest Premium Professional Structuring / Customized Health Plan
Health Plan Arizona YOUR TRUSTED ADVISORS IN HEALTH INSURANCE
602-396-5166 www.HealthPlanArizona.com L O C A L , L I C E N S E D A G E N T S AVA I L A B L E T O H E L P Y O U O P T I M I Z E Y O U R H E A LT H P L A N
56
Arts
November 16 - December 6, 2013
Teen dancer excited about her ‘Nutcracker’ performance
Art quilt exhibit opens More than 50 ďŹ ber artists from Arizona and across the country have their art quilts on display through Jan. 18 at the Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Juried by Chandler artist Laurie Fagen, the show, “Art Quilts XVIII: ARTrageous Art Quilts,â€? are original works of textile pieces that “step outside of the box.â€? Cash awards of $250 were given to “Conictedâ€? by Susan Szajer of Silver City, NM, for Best of Show; ďŹ rst place went to “Ovum,â€? Betty Busby of Albuquerque, NM; second place,
BY MEGHAN MCCOY
Girls from throughout the Valley will be featured in the 27th anniversary production of Ballet Etudes’ “The Nutcracker� held in Chandler and Mesa after the Thanksgiving holiday. Chandler resident Sarah Diniz is one of them. The 13-year-old had not seen “The Nutcracker� before she performed in it for the first time three years ago. She has danced as a party girl, junior snow and junior flower. This year she performs in both casts as senior flower, senior snow, Chinese and lady of the court. “You’re tired, but you are proud that you did it,� Sarah explains of performing in both casts. The performance generally has two casts, providing each group of dancers with the same number of
“Morning Rituals,â€? Ann Turley of Fallbrook, CA and third place, “Scorned,â€? Lisa Chipetine of West Hempstead, NY. Members of the Chandler Arts Commission also purchased ďŹ ve art pieces for the city of Chandler Public Art Collection: “Celebrationâ€? by Adriene BufďŹ ngton, Gilbert; “Rivuletâ€? by Janet Windsor, Tucson; “Looking in From Afar Looking Outâ€? by Shea Wilkinson, Omaha, NB; “Pebbleâ€? by Janet Hiller, Eugene, OR; and “Space Time Continuumâ€? by Susan Szajer, Silver City, NM.
BEST OF SHOW: “Conicted,â€? a ďŹ ber art piece noting a mother bird’s conict of whether to save herself or her babies from a forest ďŹ re, won Best of Show at the Art Quilts XVIII: ARTrageous Art Quilts at the Chandler Center for the Arts Gallery. It was created by Susan Szajer of Silver City, NM. STSN photo by Laurie Fagen ON DISPLAY: Attendees at the opening reception for Art Quilts XVIII: ARTrageous Art Quilts view the wall art submitted by about 50 artists from Arizona and around the country. STSN photo by Laurie Fagen
SEE DANCER PAGE 62
SING ★ DANCE ★ ACT ★ HAVE A BLAST!
NOW OPEN WITH CLASSES FOR ALL AGES! R E P E RTO RY
www.SanTanSun.com
NOT FOR THE BED: Fiber art pieces designed for a wall, not a bed, are on display through Jan. 18 at Chandler Center for the Arts Gallery. STSN photo by Laurie Fagen
Paint Your Own Art s Private Art Lessons s Certified Studio Instructors s One-on-One Learning s Acrylic Painting s Drawing: Pencil, Charcoal, Pastels s Age 5 to Adult, Seniors Welcome s Group Lessons - Family Discounts
C O.
Taking Appointments for
AUDITIONS
8BML JO 1BJOU "OZUJNF r /P "SU 4LJMMT /FFEFE 1BJOU 1BSUJFT r #:0# 1BJOU 1BSUJFT
Dazzling Community-wide Productions of
—AND—
480-464-6077
www.SunDustGallery.com
December 4th - 7th
Mon. to Fri.: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. 480-207-1177
3002 N. Arizona Ave. Suites 3-4 Chandler, Arizona 85255
—2013— Best of East Valley
(NW corner Elliott)
www.CopperstarRep.org
207 E. Williams Field Rd. #102, Gilbert
www.SanTanSun.com
Sun Lakes PAL plans trip Just in time for the holidays, the Performing Arts League of the Southeast Valley is selling tickets to the opera, ballet or symphony. With a PAL membership, $10 per person or $15 for a couple buys a bus trip from the flagpole in Cottonwood, Sun Lakes, to the theater; $20 buys a round trip to the theater and back to your waiting car. Membership in PAL (which meets the second Friday of every month in Sun Lakes) also helps keep arts alive in the community. The league is also looking for help running the organization. The league has put together a promising theater season, with trips to see “Xanadu,” “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” “Around the World in 80 Days,” “Les Miserables” and more planned. Upcoming single events include Mannheim Steamroller and Betty Buckley in concert. Call Vera at 480-895-9679 if you’re interested in the opera, Lynn at 480-883-0671 for ballet and Coffee Classics and Mary at 480802-9354 or Pat at 480-339-0283 if you’re interested in the theater. Call Lois at 480-883-0674 if you are interested in becoming a PAL member.
Arts
November 16 - December 6, 2013
AZ Classic Jazz presents ‘Queen City’ The Arizona Classic Jazz Society will present the Queen City Jazz Band from Denver, CO, 1 to 4 p.m. Sun, Dec. 8, at the Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort in Chandler. The cost for the afternoon is $10 for ACJS members; $15 nonmembers; free for those younger than 18. Anyone who joins ACJS the day of the performance will be admitted for free. Yearly membership for a couple is $35; singles are $25. For more information, visit azclassicjazz. Queen City has enchanted audiences with music from the 1920s, 1930s and 1940s, gospel music, early jazz, ragtime, swing, blues and spirituals for more than 50 years. Although musicians have come and gone throughout the years, some members perform with the band for at least two decades. Vocalist Wende Harston adds life, inspiration and comedy to her vocals. Classically trained, she has acted and sung professionally since childhood, and her teaching career has ranged from elementary school through
college. Harston also conducts workshops and master classes for choirs, bands and individuals in voice, film acting and theater arts. A Jazzy Holiday will be presented with selections like “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer,” “Frosty the Snowman,” “There’s No Place Like Home for the Holidays” and “The Christmas Song” (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire). Harston’s favorites include “Five Pound Box of Money” by Pearl Bailey, “Merry Christmas Baby” (Charles Brown), “Christmas Blues,” “Santa Baby” by Ertha Kitt, and “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” by Hank Ballard. ACJS will also use the occasion to collect gifts for the Salvation Army. They ask for items that are new and unwrapped. Donors may also include wrapping paper as part of the donation. Monetary donations are also accepted. Receipts for tax purposes will be available. For more information, call 480-8959241 or visit azclassicjazz.org.
Award-winning musical comes to ASU Gammage Dec. 3-8 Tony Award-winning musical “Evita” takes the stage Dec. 3 through 8 at ASU Gammage, 1200 S. Forest Ave., Tempe. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday; 2 and
7:30 p.m. Saturday; and 1 and 6:30 p.m. Sunday. Tickets start at $25 and are available at the ASU Gammage Box Office by calling 480-965-3434 or visiting ticketmaster.com.
57
Phoenix Children’s Chorus celebrates 30 years Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the Phoenix Children’s Chorus announces its 2013-14 Season. Boys and girls, ages 8 to 18, comprise the chorus, which has grown from a small 35 member group to more than 300 members who perform around the Valley and on national and international tours. Led by Music Director Ron Carpenter, the chorus was recently featured nationally on NPR’s “From the Top.” Upcoming performances include Holiday Memories at the Higley Center for the Performing Arts and again at La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church, as well as Voices of the Valley Spring Children’s Choral Festival in March and spring concert series in May. The festival is free, but tickets to the other performances may be obtained by calling 602-5343788, emailing info@pcchorus.org or visiting pcchorus.org. Children interested in joining the Phoenix Children’s Chorus should visit pcchorus.org or call 602-534-3788.
58
Arts
November 16 - December 6, 2013
www.SanTanSun.com
New studio teaches technique, joy of performance A new school training kids and adults in the performing arts—and focusing on proper technique for voice, dancing and acting; as well as performing for the fun of it—has recently opened in Chandler. Copperstar Repertory Company with new dance studio facilities on Elliott at the northwest corner of Arizona Avenue, offers classes for ages 3 through adult. Regular class offerings were something the performing studio had long wanted to offer, even as they put on productions of their own. “For the past five years our performers, audiences and fans have been asking for weekly classes and finally that dream is coming true. We are thrilled and excited to have such beautiful facilities and such extraordinary teachers,” says founder and Artistic Producing Director MaryJo Okawa. “The opening of Copperstar Studios begins an exciting new chapter for Copperstar. We will continue to have our amazing theatrical productions as well. We are confident that the studios will help actors feel more comfortable and be more successful on stage. In addition, we will not be focusing on competitions or huge recitals. We will focus on proper technique and the joy of performing, creative expression and developing our students’ talents in ways that are healthy and constructive.” Okawa adds.
Parents can take dance, Zumba or voice classes while their children take classes in the studio next door. The studio has also tried to schedule classes of interest consecutively so students can take two or three classes in a row.
Movie preview fundraiser Copperstar Repertory Companyis hosting a private viewing of “Hunger Games: Catching Fire,” two days before the movie opens to the public, to raise money for its arts programs, camps and productions. The movie will show at Harkins Tempe Marketplace at 8 p.m. Wed., Nov. 20. Raffles and giveaways will also be held. Tickets are $20; a booking of more than four tickets comes with a free popcorn. To purchase tickets, visit cambiotech.wufoo.com/forms/ hunger-games-catching-fire-movieevent.
New schedule available Copperstar Studios released a new schedule based on survey replies for its November and December schedules. Visit copperstarrep.org to view the schedule. The studio focuses on techniques and not on costly recitals and competitions. Come in and have a blast with their experienced and dedicated professional staff—Caleb
SONG AND DANCE: Copperstar will use the improved facilities to focus on technique and enjoyment of performance. Submitted photo
Allfred with hip hop and swing; Andrew Briggs with vocal technique, triple threat and musical theater; Kristen Briggs with Zumba, ballet, tap, jazz, triple threat and musical theater; Laura Christian with ballet, jazz, swing, fitness fun, triple threat and musical theater; Jamie Hixon with acting, improv, triple threat, musical theater, combo and music plus; Katherine Roll Lang with scene study, triple threat and musical theater and Okawa with music plus, acting, scene study, triple threat, combo, yoga and tap. Copperstar offers simultaneous preschool/kids and adult classes. The studio is located at 3002 N. Arizona Ave., Suites 3 and 4, Chandler. Call 480- 207-1177 or visit CopperstarRep. org to learn more.
Gilbert author releases ‘Colton’s Pocket Dragon’ Rebecca Massey, an author and business owner in Gilbert, just released a new addition to her book series Colton’s Pocket Dragon—this time, readers meet up with a bigfoot. In “Colton’s Pocket Dragon: Book 2: Iggy the Bigfoot” (published by AuthorHouse), author Massey’s newest children’s adventure book, readers once again join Colton and his pocket dragon as they fly away on another adventure. Colton, a 10-year-old boy, and his tiny dragon decide that it is past time for another adventure. As they set off, they quickly find themselves helping Iggy, the bigfoot, find his parents. Readers join Colton, his dragon and Iggy as they battle moles, tree monsters and their own emotions to find Iggy’s parents. “Come fly with Colton and his pocket dragon,” says Massey. This is the second book in the series. The Colton’s Pocket Dragon series is available at Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble. Visit coltonspocketdragon.com to learn more.
M
ADISON A VENUE S A L O N & D AY S PA
November 21st - 30th
GIFT CARD SALE For Every $100 Gift Card Purchase You Will Get a $15 Gift Card FREE Limit 5 per person. $15 Gift Card not valid until December 1, 2013. Certain conditions may apply. Offer is subject to change without notice and cannot be combined with any other offer or discount.
Now open in ! Gilbert
w w w. s p a m a d i s o n . c o m CHANDLER FULTON RANCH 4955 S. Alma School Rd. Chandler, AZ 85248 480-621-7703
CHANDLER FASHION CENTER 3111 W. Chandler Blvd. Chandler, AZ 85226 480-899-8905
PHOENIX FOOTHILLS 4910 E. Chandler Blvd. Phoenix, AZ 85048 480-759-3308
GILBERT OASIS AT THE ISLANDS 81 S. McQueen Rd. Gilbert, AZ 85233 480-300-5100
spamadisonave
@spamadisonave
Arts
www.SanTanSun.com
November 16 - December 6, 2013
Real high school musical stars perform around Valley
Events at the Mesa Arts Center
Baker School of Music in Gilbert is rehearsing for its upcoming production of “High School Musical”—but it is two real-life musical high school students who have been taking the spotlight in a series of performances throughout the Valley. Tiffany Sivak, a sophomore at Hamilton High School in Chandler, and Meshea Ross, a sophomore at Highland High School in Gilbert, have most recently performed at the Arizona State Fair, during the Chandler Mayor’s Day of Play and at WestWorld in Scottsdale; entertaining audiences and honing their skills. The students sing current hits and dance to choreographed routines in their own one-hour show. “They just get better and better with each performance, gaining much experience, and I couldn’t be happier for them for doing a one hour show, singing and dancing all by themselves,” says Clyde Baker, director of Baker School of Music. Tiffany and Meshea are student interns at Baker School of Music. Tiffany has also directed and starred in several musicals at Baker Studios, including “Grease,” “Wizard of Oz,” “You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown,” “High School
Best of Boston Pops
The Mesa Arts Center is in full swing with fall productions The Boston Pops kick off the holiday season 5 p.m. Sat., Nov. 16 with Keith Lockhart, and will perform the songs that made them famous: Holiday Medley, Broadway and film classics, and a fireworks finale choreographed to Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture and The Stars and Stripes. Show, sponsored by the Mesa Arts Center, is located at Hohokam Stadium, 1235 N. Center St., Mesa. Tickets start at $28.
SHOWTIME: Tiffany Sivak and Meshea Ross have been performing their own onehour choreographed show throughout the Valley. Submitted photo
Musical 2” and “Winnie the Pooh.” She will now be co-directing and choreographing “High School Musical,” which will be performed at the 130-seat showroom at Baker Studios Theatre, 263 E. Warner Rd., Suite C-103 in Gilbert, at 3 and 5 p.m. Sat., Dec. 21. Tickets are $7 to $10 per person and may be ordered online at BakerSchoolofMusic.com or by calling Arlene Sivak, event coordinator, at the studio box office at 480-313-6763.
Zuill Bailey: An Evening of Bach Cello Suites Acclaimed cellist Zuill Bailey plays Bach’s Cello Suites 7:30 p.m. Fri., Nov. 22 in the Virginia Piper Repertory Theater, with all six Bach Cello Suites performed
on his 1693 Matteo Gofriller cello. Tickets are $45.
Mythbusters: Behind the Myths Jamie Hyneman and Adam Savage present an evening of on-stage experiments, audience participation, video and behind-the-scenes stories. Fri., Nov. 22 at 8 p.m. in the Tom & Janet Ikeda Theater. Fans join Hyneman and Savage on stage and assist in their playful and unique approach to science, bringing you face-to-face with the curious world of the Mythbusters as the duo matches wits on stage with each other and audience members. Tickets from $37. For more information, call 480-6446500 or visit mesaartscenter.com.
Children’s choir holiday performance at Mesa church The Chandler Children’s Choir presents “Sparkling Stars,” a performance filled with sparkling eyes and sparkling voices as bright young singers take the stage to evoke thoughts of a night sky long ago, when a star of wonder sparkled in the night.
See the Chandler Children’s Choir perform 7 p.m. Dec. 13 and 14, at the First United Methodist Church of Mesa, 15 E. First Ave., Mesa. Tickets are $10; the show is for ages 5 and older. To learn more, call 480-699-9846 or visit chandlerchildrenschoir.org.
MORE THAN A FABRIC STORE!
480.926.3288 eastvalley.maidbrigade.com
2 Professionally Trained Maids for 1.5 Hours Some restrictions apply. New clients only. Call for details. Expires 12/20/2013
Designing residential home interiors in the greater metro Phoenix area for over 20 years. By The Yard is open seven days a week with home decorating fabrics in stock and a large library of Fabric and Trims. Our experienced designers custom create your window treatments, upholstery, or bedding through our in-house workroom. By The Yard provides quality craftsmanship and product innovation.
FLORA: Quilts by Paula Chung
Your interiors can be custom! CALL NOW FOR YOUR COMPLIMENTARY IN-HOME CONSULTATION.
480-831-1800
Wild Artichoke, 2012
10 E. Chicago Street • Chandler • 480-782-2695 M o n d ay - F r i d ay 10 a . m . - 5 p . m . , S a t u r d ay s 10 a . m . - 4 p . m .
59
1761 E. Warner Rd., Ste. A-10, Tempe • www.bytheyard.com
60
November 16 - December 6, 2013
Arts
www.SanTanSun.com
Sonoran Desert Chorale marks 20-year anniversary with ‘VoXX’
‘Legally Blonde: The Musical’ takes stage in Mesa
Mesa’s Sonoran Desert Chorale kicks off its 20th anniversary season “VoXX” with a series of concerts celebrating and reflecting upon the past 20 years of creating gorgeous lyrical music. Taken from the Latin for voice and the Roman numerals for 20, this season continues the Sonoran Desert Chorale’s mission of bringing a wide variety of music to Valley audiences. The chorale will focus on memorable works of the past 20 years: well-loved composers, folk songs, spirituals, carols, ballads, themes of love, honor, sacrifice and peace, all performed by the 60-member choir at venues in Mesa and Paradise Valley. In preparation for the chorale’s European tour this summer where they will participate in ceremonies commemorating the 70th anniversary of the landing in Normandy on June 6, the
“Legally Blonde: The Musical” is performed by Gilbert’s Studio 3 Performing Arts Nov. 20 through 24 at Mesa Arts Center, One E. Main St., Mesa. Showtimes are 6:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, with 2:30 p.m. matinees on Saturday and Sunday. Based on the hit movie starring Reese Witherspoon, the musical production has been adjusted to be appropriate for all ages and features songs like “Bend and Snap,” “What You Want” and “Whipped into Shape.” Artistic director Emma England is the recent winner of the 2012-13 National Youth Arts Award for Choreography for Studio 3’s productions of “The Little Mermaid Jr.,” “High School Musical,” “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” “Once on This Island,” “Thoroughly Modern Millie” and “Little
season will conclude in March and May with a set of concerts reflecting upon the pursuit of freedom and honoring the sacrifice of the many who have given their lives striving for peace. Coming up is the performance “Home for the Holidays;” warm, festive, songs and carols; 7:30 p.m. Sat., Dec. 7 and 3 p.m. Sun., Dec. 8 at First United Methodist Church, 15 E. First Ave., Mesa. Other planned performances include Voices of Freedom in March and Requiem for the Fallen in May. Season tickets are available. Adult packages are $60 and student and senior packages are $50 and may be purchased by calling 480-305-4538. For more information about programming, tickets or Sonoran Desert Chorale, visit SonoranDesertChorale.org.
Shop of Horrors,” and a Costume Design Award shared with Kari Hansen for “Little Mermaid.” SanTan Sun-area students participating in the musical include Kaleigh Feuerstein and Kirsten Ronning, Chandler High; Jessica Wastchak, Hancock Elementary; Jackie Brecker, Becca Galcik and Mackenna Goodrich, Hamilton High; Jessica Sinodis and Tatum Weight, Perry High School; Claire Jordan, Alexica Filler and Julia Jordan of Chandler Preparatory Academy; and Kaitlyn Becker and Connor Brigola of Arizona College Prep. Tickets are $13 to $15 and can be purchased through the Mesa Arts Center box office or at Studio 3, 511 W. Guadalupe Rd., Gilbert. To learn more, visit mesaartscenter.com or studio3arts.com.
Copperstar announces auditions Auditions will be on Wed. Dec. 4 and Fri. Dec. 6, by appointment, for “Children of Eden” and “Oliver!” at Copperstar Studios at 3002 N. Arizona Ave., Suite 3-4, Chandler. “Children of Eden” callbacks will be held on Sat., Dec. 7 and runs Feb. 14 through 22 at Tempe Center for the Arts, and is directed by Mary-Jo Okawa and choreographed by Laura Christian. “Oliver!” callbacks will be held on
Sat., Dec. 14 and runs Apr. 4 through 12 at the Mesa Arts Center. Okawa directs and Christian choreographs with music direction by Lincoln Wright. Be prepared to sing 16 bars of music (one verse), an accompanist and CD player will be provided. Dance will not be required for the first audition.Auditions are by appointment only. Please email mjokawa@ copperstarrep.org with questions.
curb appeal
INCREASE YOUR WITH NEW ROCK
www.pioneersand.com
25% off
Tumbled Pavers All colors. Restrictions apply. See sales associate for details. With coupon. Limited time offer.
25% off All Boulders
Pit run and surface select. Restrictions apply. See sales associate for details. With coupon. Limited time offer.
25% off Bagged Decorative Glass All colors. Restrictions apply. See sales associate for details. With coupon. Limited time offer.
Arts
www.SanTanSun.com
November 16 - December 6, 2013
61
Photographer captures poor living conditions in Cambodia BY MEGHAN MCCOY
After spending two and a half weeks volunteering in Cambodia among shanty towns with no running water or electricity, Chandler photographer Melanie Sassano still hopes to continue her work. “It puts into perspective what is important about day-to-day life and if, you get enough to eat, you are good to go,” she says. “Experiencing it is very different. I would recommend anyone to do it.” Sassano was in Cambodia from Sept. 30 through Oct. 16. She witnessed shocking living conditions for the kids with whom she worked. “I would say the ones that lived on the street actually had it better than the ones who lived in the shanty towns,” she says. The shanty towns, she explains, were plywood houses that sat on mud and a river that had raw sewage floating throughout. “The shacks have no running water or electricity,” Sassano says. “The trash and smell in these shanty towns is really terrible.” Other kids lived in parks and slept under the bridge when it rained or lived at the pagodas, religious compounds. “This isn’t to say that all live in those shacks,” she explains. “Many live in modern buildings with water and electricity, however the cleanliness of the water is not to a high standards.” She was placed with Le Restaurant des Enfants de la Rue, an 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. program for kids ages 1 to 17. “Any kids can come off the street
VOLUNTEER: Melanie Sassano spent a few weeks in Cambodia where she worked with youngsters at Le Restaurant des Enfants de la Rue teaching them English and playing games with them. Photo by Melanie Sassano
and come into the program,” she says. “It provides two meals a day, a place to sleep and hang out and provides a little bit of education.” Sassano spent her time teaching English to the kids or playing impromptu games. She says the kids just wanted attention because many did not have parents or their parents worked frequently. “It took a little bit to kind of process,” she says. “It was a little bit different to jump in there and see a lot of things and hear stories that were very difficult.” She recalls working with Kakada, an intelligent 8-year-old boy who wanted to learn the English language. Sassano says he picked up on words and memorized them before he learned new ones the next day. “He already had English words on the
LIVING CONDITIONS: Chandler resident Melanie Sassano saw some of the living conditions in Cambodia during her volunteer work from Sept. 30 through Oct. 16. Photo byMelanie Sassano
board,” she says of a ritual they began. The number of kids she worked with varied almost every day. Some days Sassano explains the center was slower with around 10 kids, which provided her with the opportunity to work with youngsters one-on-one and other days there were 40 to 50 kids. She says a lot of the kids worked selling flowers and newspapers or collecting trash and bottles, which is why the numbers fluctuated from day to day. “I am pretty amazed by the resilience of children,” she says. The staff who worked at her placement, took their own personal time on the weekends to show her where the kids lived. Sassano says they wanted to show her because people do not know what their country and kids are going through. “That is definitely something I wanted to share,” she says. While volunteering, Sassano learned
BECAUSE IT’S ALWAYS A TREASURE HUNT AT TERRI’S!
ON OR SIG N!
FULL SERVICE: Cut Color Perms Weaves Highlights Nails Permanent Makeup Facials Waxing Custom Massage
It’s not retail—it’s resale! Since 1979, our 20,000 sq. ft. stores consign designer furnishings from fine homes, estates, model homes, liquidations and close-outs.
Art • Lamps • Furniture • Electronics China and Crystal • Home Office • Appliances Bedding and Linens • Estate Collectables Floral Decor • Home Decor • Picture Frames Holiday Items • Gym Equipment
Save an additional
10%
WITH THIS AD
TO CONSIGN PLEASE CALL 480-969-1121
GRAND OPENING SALE - TEMPE LOCATION! CHANDLER SCOTTSDALE 3452 W. Chandler Blvd. 15000 N. Hayden Rd. 480-899-5522 480-998-2828
www.ShopTerris.com
TEMPE 7440 S. Priest Dr. 480-289-4121
MESA-GILBERT 1728 S. Greenfield Rd. 480-969-5545
ARROWHEAD 7650 W. Bell Rd. 623-875-2009
Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Meghan McCoy is the Neighbors and Business section editor for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at meghan@ santansun.com.
Vida Mae Salon & Day Spa
S 20% ave -8 BUY 0% C
Come browse our many household items!
that individuals can sponsor a child in Cambodia for $30 a month, which can be done by visiting wacambodia.com/EN/ le_restaurant.aspx. That money will feed the family and put the child through school. “You have to pay for school, so most of the kids will not go to school,” she says. Sassano says many Cambodians live on a dollar a day regardless the size of their family. The 30-year-old volunteer says the first couple of days were emotionally overwhelming. “I had a hard time blogging it, it was hard to put into words,” she says. For more photos from her trip, visit melaniesassano.tumblr.com.
Perms
FREE Haircut
Expires 12-31-2013
Not to be combined with any other offers. Expires 12-31-2013
20% OFF
with Color & Perm
480-802-0222 950 EAST RIGGS ROAD • CHANDLER
62
Arts
November 16 - December 6, 2013
DANCER FROM PAGE 56
performances, but on different days or times. The teenage dancer says she enjoys playing the role of Chinese because she can bring out the happiness of her character. The roles of senior flower and senior snow involve choreography—classical and sharp lines and flowing and smooth lines—which makes it equally as exciting. Her last role, lady of the court, takes place at the beginning of act two. “So, it is when Clara and the sugar plum fairy come out,� Sarah says. “You are part of their court, so you are very regal, very poised (with) pretty long dresses and head pieces.� She says performing in “The Nutcracker� makes her happy because it means Christmas is just around the corner. “Everything is just so happy,� she says. “Getting to perform makes it better; it is sort of like you are in the story.� Sarah’s dream role in “The Nutcracker� is the role of Arabian. Members of the Ballet Etudes company can participate in “The Nutcracker� from ages 9 to 18 years old. She can participate in the performance for five more years. “It’s very flowy and you get to do lots of lifts, which I really love doing and the feel I really enjoy,� she says.
Longtime dancer Sarah began dancing after a neighbor
“I really liked it, so I kept going,� she says. Although the Santan Junior High eighth-grade student mostly dances ballet, she also does lyrical, musical theater and character. “I really like how it helps you get your mind off of things,� Sarah says of dance. “It helps you if you are having a bad day, makes you feel free of those thoughts and makes you happy.� Performances for the Ballet Etudes’ “The Nutcracker� run from Fri., Nov. 29, to Sun., Dec. 8, at the Chandler Center for the Arts. Performances will also be held at the Mesa Arts Center, One E. Main St., from Fri., Dec. 13, to Sun., Dec. 15. Tickets, which are $23 and $28, can be ordered by calling 480-782-2680 for the Chandler performance or 480-6446500 for the Mesa performance. For information visit balletetudes. net.
BALLET DANCER: Sarah Diniz, 13, portrays senior ower, senior snow, Chinese and lady of the court in this year’s production of Ballet Etudes’ “The Nutcracker.â€? Submitted photo
introduced her to the art form when she was 4. “I had a neighbor and she was a few years younger than me and I never had anything to do,� she says. One day her neighbor took her to the dance studio, where Sarah learned to enjoy dancing.
Stop Allergies & Asthma
the Easy Way NO SHOTS! TAKE ORAL DROPS AT HOME ‡ 6WRS UHO\LQJ RQ SLOOV LQKDOHUV DQG QDVDO VSUD\V ‡ :H XVH LPPXQRWKHUDS\ ² WKH RQO\ WUHDWPHQW SURYHQ WR FKDQJH WKH XQGHUO\LQJ DOOHUJ\ QRW MXVW LWV V\PSWRPV
‡ )RU DVWKPD IRRG DOOHUJLHV KLYHV HF]HPD VLQXV DQG HDU LQIHFWLRQV PRUH
od For Fo Too es, Allergi
‡ )RU FKLOGUHQ DQG XS VDIHU WKDQ DOOHUJ\ VKRWV
2UDO DOOHUJ\ GURSV DUH DIĂ€UPHG E\ the World Health Organization
First Visit FREE! Firs $147 SAVINGS on physician consultation for cash-pay patients.
15,000+ patients successfully treated!
Family Allergy Clinic 3TUART ( !GREN -$ s Phoenix Magazine - Top Doctor 2012 % "ASELINE 2D 3TE s -ESA
480-827-9945 www.FamilyAllergyClinic.com
STSN 11_13
Meghan McCoy is the Neighbors and Business section editor for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at meghan@ santansun.com.
www.SanTanSun.com
ON STAGE “The Music Man,� Nov. 16-17, PCDS. With classic tunes that include “Ya Got Trouble,� “Goodnight My Someone,� “Till There Was You� and the show-stopping “SeventySix Trombones,� the performance is greatly enhanced with a live 20-plus piece orchestra. Presented by the Scottsdale Musical Theater Company. Best of the Boston Pops, Nov. 16, HS. Watch legendary conductor Keith Lockhart lead “America’s Orchestra� as they play a variety of American music, from blockbuster Broadway show tunes to Hollywood silver screen classics. “The Flying Dutchman,� Nov. 1617, SH. Leading Wagnerian singers come to Arizona to perform the German composer’s legend of the ghost ship. The production celebrates the 200th birthday of Richard Wagner. “The Velveteen Rabbit,� Nov. 17Dec. 22, TCA. Childsplay celebrates the 25th anniversary of its holiday tradition with the return of this classic story. The stage adaptation of Margery Williams’ classic picture book continues to bring holiday magic to Valley families.
Arts
www.SanTanSun.com
AEC - Arizona Event Center 1300 S. Country Club Dr., Mesa Info: 480-779-7716 , arizonaeventcenter. com
“aDoBe,â€? Nov. 22-24, PCA. A play about incarcerated youth in Arizona based on true stories, by nationally recognized playwright JosĂŠ Casas, put on by Rising Youth Theatre.
“Dirty Rotten Scoundrels,� through Nov. 30, HCT. Based on the popular 1988 film starring Michael Caine and Steve Martin, the play centers on two con men living on the French Riviera. “Riders in the Sky: Christmas the Cowboy Way,� Dec. 13, MAC. Sit
PCDS – Phoenix Country Day School 3901 E. Stanford Dr., Paradise Valley Info: 602-909-4215, scottsdalemusicaltheater.com
DST – Desert Stages Theatre 4720 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale Info: 480-483-1664, DesertStages.org HCT – Hale Centre Theatre 50 W. Page Ave., Gilbert Info: 480-497-1181, haletheatrearizona.com STRIKE UP THE BAND: Legendary conductor Keith Lockhart leads Boston Pops to the Valley. Submitted photo.
in a moonlit canyon by a camp fire and listen to songs of the holiday season. For 30 years, Riders in the Sky has been keeper of a flame passed on by the Sons of the Pioneers, Gene Autry and Roy Rogers. “Ballroom With A Twist,� Dec. 13-15, OT. The critically acclaimed international dance production plays the Orpheum Theatre for five performances, wowing with costumes, music and routines.
OT - Orpheum Theatre 203 W. Adams St., Phoenix Info: Orpheum-theater.com PCA - Phoenix Center for the Arts 1202 N. 3rd St., Phoenix Info: 602-254-3100, phoenixcenterforthearts.org
CCA – Chandler Center for the Arts 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler Info: 480-782-2680, chandlercenter.org
Eddie Diamond, Nov. 23, AEC. Eddie Diamond and his All-Star AZ Diamond band will be performing a one-night-only holiday concert covering Neil Diamond.
“The Nutcracker,� Nov. 29-Dec. 1 and Dec. 6-8, CCA. Ballet Etudes presents its 27th anniversary production of the classic holiday ballet.
63
ON STAGE VENUE INDEX
Shostakovich’s First Violin Concerto, Nov. 22-23, SH. One of the great concertos of the 20th century. Performed by Steven Moeckel.
“The Remarkable Farkle McBride,� Nov. 24, SH. A musical adaptation of John Lithgow’s story of a fickle musical prodigy.
November 16 - December 6, 2013
HS - Hohokam Stadium 1235 N. Center St., Mesa Info: 480-644-4451, hohokamstadium. com
SH - Symphony Hall 75 N. Second St., Phoenix Info: phoenixsymphony.org TCA - Tempe Center for the Arts 700 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe. Info: 480-350-2822, tca.ticketforce.com
MAC – Mesa Arts Center One E. Main St., Mesa Info: 480-644-6500, MesaArtsCenter.com
Straight No Chaser, Dec. 31, MAC. The acclaimed a cappella group puts on a New Year’s Eve show. “Driving Miss Daisy,� through Jan. 12, DST. This Pulitzer Prize-winning play premiered off-Broadway in 1987. Set in
Atlanta, the poignant and sometimes gritty story spans a quarter of a century and centers on two characters, Jewish widow Miss Daisy and her AfricanAmerican chauffer-turned-friend, Hoke.
Arizona Income Tax Credit Supporting People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
T
hanks to the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit Lay, A.R.S. 43-1088, donate to Chandler Gilbert Arc and receive a tax credit. [This Working Poor Tax Credit is in addition to the education tax credits‌you can take advantage of both tax credits in the same year.] Chandler Gilbert Arc has been serving people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in the East Valley since 1975, providing community living, vocational, day treatment and training opportunities daily. Contributions earn dollar-for-dollar tax credit on your Arizona Income Tax return. Taxpayers filing as single or unmarried head of household have a maximum credit amount of $200; married taxpayers filing jointly have a $400 maximum credit. New for 2013: There is no longer a requirement to itemize deductions!
Family owned and operated since 1981
Please make your check payable to:
Chandler/Gilbert Arc Charitable Tax Fund 3250 N. San Marcos Place Chandler, AZ 85225-7789
www.cgarc.org We also accept Mastercard, Discover and American Express. Please contact Carol at (480) 892-9422, ext. 104 Chandler/Gilbert Arc is an IRS Section 501(c) (3) non-profit organization and is a qualifying charitable organization registered with the Arizona Department of Revenue.
LOWEST PRICES, LARGEST SELECTION! HUGE SELECTION OF OVERSIZED POTTERY! PET FRIENDLY! — C L O S E D T U E S D AY S —
480-802-1309
480-802-1309
23843 S. Cooper Rd.
19051 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler
1/4 Mile S. of Chandler Heights Rd.
1/4 Mile S. of Germann on the East side
Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m. - 5p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sat. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Southern Chandler
Showroom
• Fountains • Benches • Bird Baths • Ceramics • Stoneware • Wrought Iron • Oversized Pottery • Metal Wall Decor • Indoor/Outdoor Decor • Much More!
64
November 16 - December 6, 2013
FIRST THURSDAY CRAFT MARKET
Arts
www.SanTanSun.com