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“I became a little bitter, mainly because I auditioned in Chicago in minus-15-degree weather.” — Josh Blue
TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM / APRIL 18, 2012 n 3
Photo by Andrew Zaeh
“I learned more outside of class than in.” — Josh Blue
STRAIGHT NO CHASER
Straight No Chaser to twist at Stranahan Theater By Vicki L. Kroll Toledo Free Press Star Staff Writer vkroll@toledofreepress.com
Straight No Chaser is known for its cool a cappella amalgamations. Consider the group’s take on Richard Gregory’s comic version of “The 12 Days of Christmas,” which includes snippets of “I Have a Little Dreidel” and Toto’s “Africa.” It was a video of that song that went viral and landed the singers from Indiana University a recording contract and fans around the world. “We had a reunion in 2006, our 10-year reunion for our college group. For that, one of the guys put up a bunch of our videos online really just for the 10 of us to kind of reminisce and see us performing back in the day in college, and one of them happened to be the ‘12 Days’ video,” said Walter Chase. “It took almost a year and a half, December 2007, for that to just go crazy.” More than 7 million had watched the video as of Christmas 2007, the tenor said.
“It was New Year’s Day 2008 that we got the call from Atlantic Records [chairman and CEO] Craig Kallman, and we didn’t think it was real. Obviously, we Googled who Craig Kallman was and saw he was the CEO of a record label. We set up a meeting and verified everything before calling the rest of the group and saying they want to get us back together,” Chase recalled. “It was just unreal.” “Holiday Spirits” and “Christmas Cheers” were released in 2008 and 2009, respectively, and Straight No Chaser became a seasonal favorite. In addition to amazing harmonies, the guys are known for their senses of humor. “When I was doing the lyrics for ‘The Christmas Can-Can,’ the song is about how the Christmas season just keeps getting earlier and earlier, and I was trying to think of other stereotypes that went along with it,” Chase said. “[The song] was kind of a continuation, if you will, of the minor interruption in ‘12 Days.’ The dreidel guy got to step out, lobbying that it’s just not fair if you’re Jewish during the holiday season.”
Stepping away from the warm glow of holiday lights, the group released “With a Twist” in 2010. No instruments were used on the disc; the 10 members used voices, vocal percussion, snaps, claps and stomps on “Tainted Love,” “Don’t Dream It’s Over,” “You’re My Best Friend,” “Wonderwall” and “Fix You,” among others. Last November, Straight No Chaser released “Six Pack Volume 2,” which features “Like a Prayer,” “Buddy Holly” and “Billie Jean/Poison.” “Those were songs that we did live in our stage show that our fans love and wanted recordings of,” Chase said of the EP. “We’re trying not to just cover songs, but put our own Straight No Chaser twist on the song.” Like melding “Rhythm of Love” by Plain White T’s with Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love” on “Six Pack.” “We liked the thematic relationship between this ‘Rhythm of Love’ song that talks about having only one night and then that classic song, the standard of ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love,’ which is obviously generations apart, that really
has the same underlying theme to it. They seem solid and worked well together with chord progression but also worked well with the theme of the song and the lyric,” Chase said during a call en route to a tour stop in Sacramento, Calif. “The cool thing about a cappella, it does have a very structured feel to it, but there are a ton of ways that we can add our own arrangements and kick it up a level,” he added. Straight No Chaser — Chase, Michael Luginbill, Randy Stine, David Roberts, Charlie Mechling, Jerome Collins, Don Nottingham, Ryan Ahlwardt, Seggie Isho and Tyler Trepp — will be at Stranahan Theater on April 19 for a 7:30 p.m. concert. A limited number of tickets remain on Ticketmaster.com. “I’d say we probably will not be doing any holiday songs, but you never know with our group; we’re constantly changing the set list, whatever strikes us,” Chase said. “If people ever want to request songs, they can tweet me at @SNCWalt. I put up a set list every day, that way they can tweet and request new music.” O
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”I might have cerebral palsy, but I’m not PC. I say what I want, when I want.” — Josh Blue
One Man Star Wars
Performer brings The Force to Adrian.
By Jeff McGinnis
Toledo Free Press Star Pop Culture Editor PopGoesJeff@gmail.com
A long time ago (about 30 years) in a galaxy far, far away (Hawaii), a young Canadian boy named Charles Ross was taken to a theater by his father to see “Star Wars” for the first time. Actually, he saw two movies that day — they were showing a double feature of the original film and “The Empire Strikes Back.” “But he didn’t tell me that it wasn’t the end of the story. I was convinced that the sort of lame tone left over at the end of ‘Empire Strikes Back’ was the way the story actually ended. And I was like, ‘What a bummer of a story!’ I was really angry at George Lucas for doing that,” Ross said in an interview with Toledo Free Press Star. His dad did eventually tell him that another movie was still on the way, and thus a lifelong fandom of “Star Wars” began in earnest — one which has manifested itself in the show that Ross performs, “One Man Star Wars Trilogy.” He will be at the Croswell Opera House in Adrian, Mich., on April 21. “It’s basically me onstage — with no costumes, sets, props or real talent —me, onstage, retelling the original, bad hair, 1970s1980s ‘Star Wars’ trilogy, basically using my own body and my own impressions,” Ross said. “It’s really a tongue-in-cheek homage to ‘Star Wars.’ It’s probably as close to watching an 8-year-old kid pretending to be all the characters in ‘Star Wars,’ except that I’m trapped in a 37-year-old body.” Ross’ familiarity with the films — or at least the first one — extends back to his childhood growing up on a farm in western Canada, far from the range of conventional television signals. If he wanted to watch TV as a kid, he had to watch a videotape. “So, I had the first ‘Star Wars’ film recorded off of television from before we moved up there, we had ‘The Blue Lagoon’ with Brooke Shields, if you ever saw that film — and be happy I don’t do the ‘One Man Blue Lagoon’ — and the other film was actually the miniseries ‘Shogun,’ which had Richard Chamberlain in it. It was something like an eight- or nine-part miniseries, and it was missing the last 20 minutes of the final episode. And I never had any idea how it ended! Once more, I just thought it was a bummer of an ending.” As a result, whenever Ross wanted to watch TV, he watched “Star Wars” — over and over again. Four-hundred times before he was 10, by his count. And as an adult, his familiarity and love for the film led to the idea to perform it onstage himself. “It was sort of a slow process. I ended up trying to do the first film — it ended up being about 25 minutes, sort of like a comedy sketch, just to see if people would get it. And I was surprised at how much people got out of the 25-minute thing.” The positive response led to Ross developing the full show with director TJ Dawes as a full, one-hour, one-man show — 20 minutes per film in the trilogy.
Charles Ross will swing his lightsaber in Adrian on April 21in the ‘One Man Star Wars Trilogy.’ PHOTO COURTESY CHARLES ROSS
“It was perfect; I started to tour this on the fringe theater festivals,” Ross said. “I was able to tour it around America and around Canada, and basically tap into all the fandom of ‘Star Wars.’” That’s when LucasFilm first heard of the show. “They were completely intrigued, because I wasn’t using any artwork from ‘Star Wars,’ I wasn’t selling ice cream bars with my face on it — it was just simply one guy, three films, on a stage, and celebrating the love of all things ‘Star Wars.’ So they were totally up
the alley of letting me keep doing it.” Ross performs with the full permission of LucasFilm and said he is genuinely thrilled to get the chance to share his love of “Star Wars” with audiences. “The weird thing is, I never set out for this to be the case. It’s odd to think that I kind of arrived at that place, having never actually set out to arrive at that place. It was something where it was kind of a lucky mistake, or a bit of a fluke.” O
“My motto is: I have to create something every day.” — Josh Blue
TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM / APRIL 18, 2012 n 5
Hannah’s Socks schedules ‘Sole Train’ By Brigitta Burks Toledo Free Press Star Staff Writer star@toledofreepress.com
Supporters of good causes can hop on the “Sole Train,” a music-filled party to raise funds for Hannah’s Socks. “I keep telling my friends it’s an excuse to dig out their old platform shoes,” said Jan Aguilar, a board member for the local nonprofit that provides socks and undergarments to those in need. The April 20 event at The Blarney Bullpen aims to raise money to hire an executive director to run Hannah’s Socks. All the board members have other jobs and work for the organization on a volunteer basis, Aguilar said. An executive director could help the organization respond to the growing need for socks and undergarments in the community. These two items are the least donated to shelters, Aguilar said. By providing socks and undergarments to shelters, Hannah’s Socks allows the facilities to focus on other goals, Aguilar said. Last year, Hannah’s Socks collected more than 200,000 pairs of socks. Hannah’s Socks began in 2004 when then 4-year-old Hannah Turner observed a homeless man who needed socks at Cherry Street Mission. Hannah told her mother Doris that she wanted to give her own socks to the man. This inspired Doris and her husband Vic to create Hannah’s Socks. Hannah was recently awarded a “Heroes of Compassion” award by the Multi-Faith
Council of NW Ohio for her idea and work in the community. “All this was inspired by her compassion and her empathy and her parents recognizing that,” Aguilar said. “[Hannah’s] a great kid. She doesn’t like being in the spotlight, but loves to go out and meet [the people the organization helps].” The inaugural Sole Train event will feature R&B group MoonDogs, which has a horn section, to get the crowd grooving, Aguilar said. Food from The Blarney will be available in addition to a cash bar. Pop and water are free. About 15 different baskets will be raffled off, Aguilar said. Patrons can buy $1 tickets and get the chance to win baskets, ranging from car care to wine to tailgate-themed prizes. A silent auction will allow eventgoers to bid on prizes that include a private dinner party at LaScola Italian Grill and a gas grill. Aguilar said Sole Train is unique because while there have been disco-themed parties in the area recently, she doesn’t recall a funkstyle party. Sponsors include Hollywood Casino Toledo and Mark Feldstein & Associates, among several others. Toledo Free Press is a media sponsor. Tickets are $30 each or $50 for two and are available at http://www.hannahssocks. org. Sole Train begins at 7 p.m. April 20. The Blarney Bullpen is at 601 Monroe St., Downtown Toledo. Contact Aguilar at jana@hannahssocks.org for more information. O
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“Everybody has a disability, whether you admit it or not.” — Josh Blue
Street Fame By Brigitta Burks
Toledo Free Press Star Staff Writer star@toledofreepress.com
Filmmaker Horse Wren is exploring the differences between music stars who have made it and local artists still striving to go big with his documentary “Street Fame.” Wren, who also works for The Juice 107.3, originally hoped to have a workshop that put artists just starting out in touch with music industry experts. However, his idea evolved into a film. “[Beginning musicians] get a bum rap in a way,” Wren said. “I think it’s the artist themselves; they never really do what it takes to go to the mainstream.” Wren’s idea is to have a split screen comparing big-time artists with those new to the business. Some of the area artists Wren has included in his film so far are That Dude Jasper, Loco Mic, DJ A.M.F. and Anonymous. “Anyone can become a musician these, days. You got a laptop ... you got a song,” Wren said. Wren said while some fledgling artists have “attitude,” there are those like Loco Mic who work hard to make music. “He’s been mastering his craft, but he still has a sense of humor. It’s not gangsta rap; it’s not the F this, F that,” Wren said. This, how-
Horse Wren contrasts music stars with local hopefuls in documentary film.
ever, could make getting publicity for those like Loco Mic difficult. “[The songs] probably won’t get airplay at this stage in the game unless there’s another ‘Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’,” Wren said. Wren also praised That Dude Jasper. “He reminds me of a futuristic Timbaland. He does it all, but he does it with gusto,” he said. There is some serious star power in the documentary with the inclusion of Russell Simmons, who Wren met when the businessman came to the area recently. Wren asked Simmons what he thought about the documentary idea and received praise for the concept. “To get that kind of feedback of ‘Go forward,’ I was like, ‘Wow, OK, I’ll go,” Wren said. Wren, who has worked on music videos in the past, was also inspired by “Krush Groove,” the film based on the beginnings of Simmons’ label Def Jam Recordings. Many big names like Simmons are still “nice and humble,” Wren said, something he hopes to highlight with his film. Not all starting off musicians are as down to earth, however. “[Certain musicians] are not happy with not having a dressing room. It’s really weird. I’m getting attitude from you and you’re trying to get to that point [of stardom],” Wren said. Wren said he hopes to have the project com-
pleted by June 20 and is aiming to show at independent film festivals. “There’s no profanity; [the film is] clean. It will touch on the point of why certain people make it and some people don’t,” he said. Growing up in Detroit, Wren was inspired to enter his field by his mother Pamela, also a music lover. “In a way, I wish I was then the way I am now because I would have helped her get on ‘American Idol’ or something,” he said. Wren moved to Bowling Green about three years ago and also runs Street Fame, a marketing company that shares the name on his documentary. His goal is to help those around him realize their dreams, whatever they may be, Wren said. “Maybe everyone’s not meant to be a musician, maybe someone’s meant to be a producer,” he said. The filmmaker is optimistic about completing his film by the deadline. “I’m busting my butt to finish it; I have tons of footage,” he said. Still, Wren welcomes more tape. He hopes to include artists of all different genres in his film— everyone from “DJs to trumpet players,” he said. For more information or if you’re an artist interested in being featured, contact Wren at (419) 494-8787. O
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“Everyone else was doing poetry and music that they wrote and I’m up there telling jokes.” — Josh Blue
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“I ate drank and slept and lived comedy.” — Josh Blue
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Amateur musicians will play side by side with the Toledo Symphony Orchestra (TSO) on April 20 at the inaugural ProAm Concert. The idea came from TSO Conductor Stefan Sanderling, who performed similar professional-amateur concerts in Chautauqua, N.Y. The concert gives amateurs of all skill levels a chance to play under the conductor and alongside professional musicians. “We discussed maybe we should get easier arrangements, but Stefan insisted we use actual repertoire,” said Ashley MiraSANDERLING kian, director of marketing and public relations for the symphony. Selections are “Finlandia,” “Pictures at an Exhibition,” “The Great Gate of Kiev,” “Nimrod from Enigma Variations” and “Sound of Music.” The amateurs are set to have their first rehearsal with Sanderling on April 18 before being joined by their professional counterparts April 19. Mirakian said the response for the concert has been “tremendous.” The brass section alone will have 29 participants, up from its usual 10, while the flute section is up to about 15 from the regular four or so musicians, she said. “[The musicians] are all coming from different places. It’s kind of great; everybody has a different day job,” Mirakian said, adding that there are plenty of cookie breaks at rehearsal so musicians can mingle. Participant Janice Schemenauer is a retired schoolteacher who played the French horn in high school and college. She picked up the instrument again about five years ago and studies under Sandra Clark, TSO’s principal hornist. “When [the concert] came up, it just seemed
very exciting to have the opportunity to play under the direction of Stefan in the Peristyle and with the members of the Toledo Symphony Orchestra,” she said. Like many participants, Schemenauer is active in community bands like the Maumee Community Band and the Sylvania Community Orchestra. “Everyone was like, ‘Did you get your music, did you get your music?’” she said of her band members, adding that everyone has been practicing. Eighty-year-old John Nicholson, also a member of many community bands, plays with Schemenauer in Maumee and in the French horn section. “[Participating] is very important because it’s a once in a lifetime experience,” he said. Nicholson played the E flat alto horn in marching band in his youth and picked up the French horn 10 years ago. After his wife died in the late ’90s, “I was looking for things to fill my life,” the music lover said. “I enjoy the ensemble much more than sitting in the audience.” The amateurs aren’t the only ones who are excited. “I have been looking forward to the chance to play alongside them for months, while creating memories around some of the greatest melodies in the orchestra world,” said Merwin Siu, the symphony’s principal second violinist. Mirakian said the concert is a move toward TSO providing more adult education. “We’re pretty good about doing youth education but part of our goal is to extend our education in the adult community,” she said. Schemenauer said that working with Clark has been “extremely beneficial. I gain something from every lesson. She looks at her students in a sense of where you are, this is where you can go and this is what you need to do to get there.” Tickets are free and can be ordered in advance by calling (419) 246-8000. The concert is 7:30 p.m. April 20. The Peristyle Concert Hall is at the Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St. Visit toledosymphony.com to learn more. O
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“If I didn’t have cerebral palsy I’d just be a goofy white guy.” — Josh Blue
TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM / APRIL 18, 2012 n 9
Lourdes hosts one-act festival By John Dorsey Toledo Free Press Star Staff Writer jdorsey@toledofreepress.com
The members of the Lourdes University Drama Society know good things come in small packages. The group will soon host its fifth annual Festival of One Acts in the Ebeid Student Center at at 7 p.m. April 20 and 21 and 2 p.m. April 22. The festival, which takes submissions from playwrights all across North America, has earned a reputation for premiering truly cutting-edge drama — without the support of a traditional theatre department. “We don’t have a theater department here, so our success is a true testament to the interest of our student body,” said group adviser Keith Ramsdell. “The Drama Society was founded in the spring of 2007, purely out of student interest. We started with only a handful of members, and now have over 30. “Part of what makes our festival unique is that we focus on the one-act play. By doing that, we are able to get a lot of students involved who might not otherwise have the time or who might be intimidated by the longer form.” Ramsdell said this year’s festival offered new challenges. “I’ve seen a lot of changes within the group over the years. We started out doing just a few scenes that were simple to produce, and this
year we’re doing nine different scenes and the work is extremely challenging,” he said. “This is our third year sponsoring a contest for one acts, and every year becomes more competitive. We received something like 80 plays this time from across the United States and Canada.” This year’s plays are “A Problem with Friends” by Janet Godsell, “Controlling Interest” by Wayne Rawley, “Dead Right” by Elaine Jarvik, “The Fortune Cookie” by Tuan Phan, “Inside the Department of the Exterior” by Philip Hall, “It Sounds Like Science” by Russell Weeks, “Love Birds” by Rod McFadden, “Press Play” by Seth Freeman and “The Memory Box” by Chris Swanson. The competition was judged by Ramsdell, Christine Child, Kim Yost, Holly Baumgartner and a student representative. “Last year we had playwrights in attendance from Seattle and St. Joseph, Mo. This year we will have Chris Swanson with us from Westerville, Ohio,” Ramsdell said. “We are doing some pretty good things for our students and our campus. We just got approved for a chapter of Alpha Phi Omega. Students really have an opportunity to grow with us.” Tickets for the Festival of One Acts are $5. The Ebeid Center is located in the lower level of Delp Hall. For more information, call (800) 878-3210 or visit www.lourdes.edu/dramasociety.aspx. O
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“If I ever don’t achieve something it’s not because of my disability it’s because I’m being lazy.” — Josh Blue
Photography as release Chamber of Commerce President Mark V’Soske’s award-winning photos on display at Secor Metropark. By John P. McCartney Toledo Free Press Star Staff Writer star@toledofreepress.com
As a 21-year-old member of the Air Force stationed in Guam during the Vietnam conflict in 1966, Mark V’Soske stumbled upon photography. His bunkmate invited him to the darkroom on a lazy Saturday afternoon, and the magic of watching his friend create an image on what had been a blank sheet of paper entranced him. “I watched him,” V’Soske said. “He let me do it. I saw that picture come up, and it was like, ‘I’m hooked.’ I immediately went and bought a reasonable camera and started.” That start 46 years ago has become a passion that enriches every aspect of his life. V’Soske’s daytime job as president of the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce involves community development, business development, lobbying and helping businesses in Greater Toledo compete, survive and grow. He calls his photography “a release.” “Some people who do a job full time get in trouble because they’re totally immersed, 24/7, in their work,” he said. “In order to be fresh, you have to have some things outside the job. Otherwise, you can become stale and stagnant. And photography has been it for me.” Toledoans are invited to see V’Soske’s work, along with that of 56 other artists, at the Photo Arts Club of Toledo’s 27th annual show at the National Center for Nature Photography, located at Secor Metropark. [The park is on Central Avenue, six miles west of U.S. 23/I-475.] The exhibit of 330 photos is open April 21-22 and April 28-29, from noon until 5 p.m. Admission is free. V’Soske said he believes people “will be very pleased” if they make the trip to see the exhibition. “They’ll be very surprised at the quality of the photographs, the creativity and the excellence of
people just like them who like to take pictures,” he said. “I think they’ll enjoy it immensely.” V’Soske has two photos in the exhibit, both second-place winners in their respective categories. He takes the majority of his photos when he and Karen, his wife of 38 years, take cycling trips across Europe, especially in France. He said his success as a photographer has been evolutionary. “I have thousands, tens of thousands, of pictures from way back till now, and frankly, most of them are not good,” he said. “When I look at a scene, I try to identify what is it that I want to express with it, what do I want to say with this picture?” V’Soske acknowledges that digital photography has changed the nature of his craft. He went digital in 1999, and says he loves the opportunities it creates. “I can do it anywhere,” he said. “I can be sitting in an airport, on a tablet or a laptop, and I can work on a picture. “It is quicker. It isn’t as dangerous [as working with film. There are no] fumes or chemicals. What you can do with digital is absolutely amazing.” He does say, however, that digital photography has its drawbacks. “You can shoot like crazy, and that’s one of the problems with digital that people have,” he said. “Everybody now has them, and everybody takes millions and millions of pictures, a lot of times without thought, or thinking, ‘I can fix it in the computer.’ They don’t put a lot of thought into it.” V’Soske said he believes that students of photography can learn to think about what they are doing with their cameras by interacting with other photographers. He believes successful photographers “work with a purpose.” He suggests that those interested in pursuing photography join a group. “Learn the craft,” he said. “Buy the books. Understand composition. Understand light.
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Mark V’Soske urges new photographers to ‘study the old masters of art.’ TOLEDO FREE PRESS STAR PHOTO BY JOSEPH HERR
“Study the old masters of art. Go the museum and start looking at some of these masters, these pictures, but don’t just glance at the picture. Look at them and ask yourself questions. Pay attention to how they worked light. What was light? What was dark? Why? What stands out? What did they do to make the subject [stand out]? Look at it and say, ‘What did the
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artist intend the main subject to be?’” V’Soske occasionally sells a photographic print, but more often than not, he donates his work to community organizations like the Rotary Club and Lutheran Social Services for silent auctions they hold to raise money. He posts 331 examples of his work on his website, www.marksvoskephotography.com. O
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“When I walk around stage, people can’t take their eyes off me.” — Josh Blue
TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM / APRIL 18, 2012 n 11
Still standing
Josh Blue to play at Funny Bone from April 26-29.
By Mighty Wyte TOLEDO FREE PRESS STAR STAFF WRITER star@toledofreepress.com
Josh Blue will make his way back to the Funny Bone at Fat Fish Blue on April 26-29. Blue lives with cerebral palsy and his self-deprecating sense of humor has earned him many fans and helped him win the fourth season of “Last Comic Standing” in 2006. Six years later, he’s still touring heavily. Blue has a 4-year-old son and a 2-yearold daughter. “You should see me walking down the street with a stroller. People walk up to the stroller acting like they expected to see a bucket of doorknobs or something,” he said. “It’s like free material, two kids and one good arm. My boy is like me in a lot of ways, he’s such a joker. You should see him in public, walking around like he’s got palsy. I have to tell him, ‘Just because Daddy runs like that doesn’t mean you have to.’ “Being a dad is great. It’s the best thing I’ve ever done, the biggest accomplishment of my life. My wife actually just got me and my son matching bibs.” Touring so much weighs heavy on the family man, but has its rewards. “I really miss my kids when I’m on the road,” Blue said. However, as a result of his work ethic and the appeal of his comedy, Blue was able to land a coveted Showtime special. Filmed in 2011 in Minneapolis, Blue’s special, “Sticky Change,” premieres April 18. Blue began crashing open-mic nights intended for music and poetry as a college student and never looked back. “My friends really encouraged me to do comedy,” Blue said. “They said, ‘You’re funny all the time, you should try it.’” Less than a decade later, Blue has enjoyed great success. He has enjoyed numerous television specials and appearances, and was the first comedian to perform stand-up on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show.” Blue doesn’t show any signs of slowing down.
Antiques & Art
Josh Blue has been touring since he won ‘Last Comic Standing’ in 2006. PHOTO COURTESY joshblue.com
on s ed ay os d Cl on M
Adams Street
“Pretty much, I don’t plan on quitting,” he said. “I love doing stand-up and I feel like this is a gift I’ve been given that not too many people have. It’s fun to be able to go up there and make a difference talking about disability. I feel like there are other things for me, like film or TV but I don’t think I’ll ever lose the dirty lust for stand-up.” As Blue’s career has progressed, venues and audiences have grown. Blue said as headliner, he no longer gets to see too many other headlining comedians. “When I was opening, I got to see a lot of other big-name comics. Now that I’m on the road I only see openers,” he said. “That’s why I bring Chuck Roy or Ben Roy with me; I have to bring my own friends. “Ben Roy has been the only person I’ve been afraid to follow after I became famous. He crushes it. So what I did was took Ben Roy on the road with me so I could learn how to follow him. A lot of other people will bring weak talent with them. I want someone to crush it before me so I can take the handoff.” Blue said he enjoys celebrity. “It’s really cool now being onstage. People know who I am, I have less to explain to people,” he laughed. “If you don’t know about palsy and you come to my show, you’re like, what is going on here?” Blue said much of his downtime in new cities is spent researching the town and enjoying nature. “Right now I’m soaking in beautiful Idaho. As we’re doing this interview I’m drawing a picture. Before that I went for an hourlong run slash walk. I just wanted to get a vibe and see what I can make fun of. I’m pretty much a nature nutball too. I went out and watched birds for a little bit,” Blue said. “I’m also really into throwing knives and hatchets now. I just started throwing eight-inch circular saw blades. It’s awesome.” Blue asked for one favor: “Could you make mention of my Twitter account? It’s been blowing up lately, but people should follow me because for every three-word tweet I write, it takes me five minutes to type.” Favor granted: @JoshBlueComedy. O
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12 n APRIL 18, 2012 / TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM
O MAS FiNA: April 20-21. O Chris Knopp: April 26.
Compiled by Whitney Meschke Events are subject to change.
Blind Pig
MUSIC The Ark
This small venue offers a showcase for lesser-known acts. 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. (734) 761-1451, (734) 761-1800 or www.theark.org. O The Guggenheim Grotto: 8 p.m. April 18, $15. O Anais Mitchell & Cuddle Magic: 8 p.m. April 19, $15. O Loudon Wainwright III: 8 p.m. April 20, $20. O The Elders: 8 p.m. April 21, $17.50. O James Hunter: 7:30 p.m. April 22, $20. O Lambchop & Kelly Jean Caldwell: 8 p.m. April 23, $20. O Johnny Winter: 8 p.m. April 25, $40.
Bar 145
This new venue features burgers, bands and bourbon, if its slogan is to be believed. 5304 Monroe St. (419) 593-0073 or bar145toledo.com. O Piano Wars: April 18 and 25. O The Bridges: April 19. O 4th Day Echo: April 20. O Fibbion Handful: April 21.
Basin St. Grille
This Toledo standby has been revived with more than 20 different flavors of martinis and live, local music. 5201 Monroe St. (419) 843-5660. O Jeff Stewart: April 18. O Scott Ballard: April 19. O Distant Cousinz: April 20. O Andrew Ellis: April 21.
BGSU performances
The university’s ensembles, choirs, quartets and more — and their friends — will present the music they’ve been perfecting. Halls are located in Moore Musical Arts Center, Willard Drive and Ridge Street, Bowling Green. (419) 372-8171, (800) 589-2224, (419) 372-8888 or www.bgsu.edu/colleges/music. O Graduate String Quartet: 8 p.m. April 18, Bryan Recital Hall. O World Percussion Night: 8 p.m. April 19, Kobacker Hall. O BGSU Wind Symphony: 8 p.m. April 20, Kobacker Hall. O University and Concert bands: 8 p.m. April 21, Kobacker Hall.
The Blarney Irish Pub
Catch local acts while taking in the pub’s modern Irish and American fare. 601 Monroe St. (419) 418-2339 or www. theblarneyirishpub.com.
LIVE MUSIC THIS WEEK PWiaanrso AT
A variety of rock, soul, pop and alternative acts perform at this bar. 208 S. First St., Ann Arbor. $3-$20 unless noted. (734) 996-8555 or blindpigmusic.com. O Encanti, Serax, Satta Don Dada, K@tdog: 9:30 p.m. April 18. O The Werks, Green Chi: 9 p.m. April 19. O Devin the Dude, Coughee Brothaz North, Gameboi, Tru Klassick: 9 p.m. April 20. O Chris Bathgate, Matt Jones, Chris Kasper: 9:30 p.m. April 21. O Dead Melodies, Aeris, the Bends, Nigel & the Dropouts: 9:30 p.m. April 24. O Omega the Majestik, 3 Worlds Apart, S.A. the Abolitionist, POPE, Hi Potent C, Dez: 9:30 p.m. April 25.
50+ Bus Trip
Bronze Boar
Be sure to check out this Warehouse District tavern’s namesake, overhead near the entrance. 20 S. Huron St. (419) 2442627 or www.bronzeboar.com. O Open mic: Thursdays and Mondays. O Luke James: Tuesdays. O Saturnine Hello: April 20. O Beg to Differ: April 21.
Caesars Windsor
If you have your passport, consider hopping the Detroit River for this casino’s entertainment offerings. Ticket prices, in Canadian dollars, are for the cheapest seats; attendees must be 19 or older. Caesars Windsor Colosseum, 377 Riverside Drive East, Windsor, Ontario. (800) 991-7777 or www.caesarswindsor.com. O Elvis Costello and the Imposters: 9 p.m. April 21, $40.
Cheers Sports Eatery
This family-friendly eatery dishes up live performances … and Chicago-style pizza. 7131 Orchard Centre Drive, Holland. (419) 491-0990. O Mark Mikel, Brian Albright: April 20. O BOFFO band: April 21.
Clazel Theater
This venue has been rocking BGSU students (and others) for years. 127 N. Main St., Bowling Green. (419) 353-5000 or www.clazel.net. O Svet, DJs Hanny and AK: April 21. O EOTO, Kraddy, Living Dead, DJ Matt Clarke: April 22, $15-$20.
Dégagé Jazz Café
Signature drinks, such as pumpkin martinis, plus live local jazz performers. 301 River Road, Maumee. $5 weekends for cafe seating. (419) 794-8205 or www.degagejazzcafe.com. O Gene Parker & Friends: 7-10 p.m. April 18 and 24-25. O Leo Darrington: 7 p.m. April 19 and 26.
419-865-9767
www.wposfm.com O BGSU jazz faculty: 7:30 p.m. April 20. O Jeff McDonald: 7:30 p.m. April 21.
O Cont-Buite Band: 9:30 p.m. April 20. O My 80s Vice: 8:30 p.m. April 21.
The Distillery
French Quarter J. Pat’s Pub
Karaoke is offered Tuesdays, but paid entertainers rock out Wednesdays-Saturdays. 4311 Heatherdowns Blvd. (419) 382-1444 or www.thedistilleryonline.com. O DJ Mark EP: Thursdays. O The Eight-Fifteens: April 18. O The Bridges: April 20-21. O Kyle White: April 25.
Doc Watson’s
Named in honor of the owners’ forefather, this bar and restaurant serves a variety of dishes and entertainment. 1515 S. Byrne Road. (419) 389-6003 or docwatsonstoledo.com. O Shane Piasecki: 10 p.m. April 19. O Hemline Theory, People Being Human: 10 p.m. April 20. O Shawn Sanders: 10 p.m. April 21.
Duncan’s
938 W. Laskey Road. (419) 720-4320. O Open stage with Buzz Anderson and Frostbite: Wednesdays. O Scotty Rock: Sundays. O Caught in the Boogie: April 20. O Bourbon Street Band: April 21. O Last Born Sons: April 27.
Fat Fish Blue
Serving blues and similar sounds, as well as bayou-style grub. Levis Commons, 6140 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg. (419) 931-3474 or fatfishfunnybonetoledo.com.
Live entertainment after 9:30 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays. Holiday Inn French Quarter, 10630 Fremont Pike, Perrysburg. (419) 874-3111 or www.hifq.com. O Luke James & the Thieves: April 20-21. O The Late Show: April 27-28.
Greektown Casino-Hotel
Three stages — at Shotz Sports Bar, Eclipz Ultra Lounge and Asteria — offer competition for gamblers’ attention. 555 E. Lafayette Blvd., Detroit. No cover charge, unless noted; guests must be 21 or older. (888) 771-4386 or www.greektowncasino.com. O Karaoke: 9:30 p.m. Thursdays, Shotz. O DJ Lee J: 9 p.m. Sundays, Shotz. O Howard Glazer: 8 p.m. April 20, Asteria. O Doin Time: 9:30 p.m. April 20, Shotz. O David Gerald Band: 9:30 p.m. April 20, 27, Eclipz. O Classic Rewind: 8 p.m. April 21, Asteria. O The Hips: 9:30 p.m. April 21, Eclipz. O Howard Glazer: 8 p.m. April 27, Asteria.
Grounds for Thought
This BG coffeehouse serves a mean brew of blues, jazz, rock and more by the world famous and locally renowned in an intimate setting. 174 S. Main St., Bowling Green. (419) 3543266 or www.groundsforthought.com. O Michiko Saiki: 7-8:30 p.m. April 26.
This Thursday, April 19th:
The Bridges Toledo’s premier party
day, This Wednes And … Two pianos inds a million m n! blow $5 Martinis
“Being famous seems great, but it invades every part of your life.” — Josh Blue
band, The Bridges specializes in live music entertainment in and around the Toledo area. The fellas are professional, energetic, and always entertaining.
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11:30 AM – 2 AM
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This Friday, April 20th:
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This Saturday, April 21st:
Fibbion Handful
Born in April of 2008, Fibbion sprouted from the greater Cincinnati area onto the cover music scene.
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“The disabled community gives me a strong backing.” — Josh Blue ICE Restaurant & Bar
This local, family-owned enterprise offers food, drinks and music in a sleek atmosphere. 405 Madison Ave. $5 cover, unless noted otherwise. (419) 246-3339 or icerestaurantandbar.com. O Mike Fisher: 6 p.m. April 19 and 26 and 8 p.m. April 21 and 27. O Dan and Don: 8 p.m. April 20.
JJ’s Pub
Live music is on Saturday’s menu; the genre varies, along with the cover charge. Karaoke is on tap 9:30 p.m. Thursdays, and a DJ starts spinning at 9 p.m. Fridays. 26611 N. Dixie Hwy., Perrysburg. (419) 874-9058 or jjsperrysburg.com. O John Barile and Bobby May: 8 p.m. April 24.
Kerrytown Concert House
This venue focuses on classical, jazz and opera artists and music. 415 N. Fourth Ave., Ann Arbor. $5-$30, unless noted. (734) 769-2999 or www.kerrytownconcerthouse.com. O Ben Rolston: 8 p.m. April 20. O Ron Brooks Trio: 7 p.m. April 21. O “Mad About Chamber Music”: 8 p.m. April 23, free.
Manhattan’s
This “slice of the Big Apple” in the Glass City provides entertainment most weekends. 1516 Adams St. (419) 243-6675 or www.manhattanstoledo.com. O Open mic: 9 p.m. Monday nights. O Jam session hosted by Tom Turner & Slow Burn: 9 p.m. Tuesdays. O Quick Trio: 6-9 p.m. April 19. O Andrew Ellis & Lucky Lemont: 9 p.m. April 20.
Mickey Finn’s Pub
151 on the Water
The former home of Murphy’s has reinvented itself as “Toledo’s only Chicago-style restaurant and music cafe.” 151 Water St. (419) 725-2151 or www.151onthewater.com. O Open mic: 5-9 p.m. Wednesdays. O Blues and jazz jam with Aayan Niam and David Morris: 7 p.m. Thursdays.
Ottawa Tavern
Casual meals with weekend entertainment. 1815 Adams St. (419) 725-5483 or www.otavern.com. O The End Times Spasm Band, Sarah and the Tall Boys: 10 p.m. April 19. O Mr. Gnome, the Baker Family, Hound, the Saw Had Eyes That Sea: 10 p.m. April 21.
Potbelly Sandwich Shop
What began as an antique store in Chicago turned into a string of more than 200 eateries nationwide, including Toledo. All of the shops feature live music. 4038 Talmadge Road. (419) 725-5037 or www.potbelly.com. O Don Coats: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesdays. O Alex Kenzie: 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Fridays. O Tom Drummonds: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesdays.
Rocky’s
The “hippest little lounge in Toledo” features monthly beer tastings, “Professor Whiteman’s Trivia Challenge” and open mic nights. Live music (Wednesdays and/or Fridays) is typically a mix of southern rock, pop, blues and jazz. 4020 Secor Road. (419) 472-1996. O Chris Knopp: April 18. O Bobby May: April 25.
A variety of genres to wash your drinks down with. Open mic nights, 8 p.m. Wednesdays, no cover; $5-$7 cover other nights. 602 Lagrange St. (419) 246-3466 or www.mickeyfinnspub.com. O Decent Folk: 9:30 p.m. April 19 and 26, free. O RootStand: 9:30 p.m. April 20. O Cold Forty Three, 200 West, Last Chance Casanova: 9:30 p.m. April 21. O Toledo School for the Arts ensemble: 4 p.m. April 22.
Stella’s
Motor City Casino/Hotel
Upscale dining plus live entertainment is a welcome combination. Bands start at 6 p.m. Fridays and 9 p.m. Saturdays. 610 Monroe St. (419) 725-0044 or www.tableforty4.com. O John Barile and Bobby May: 6 p.m. April 20 and 27.
This casino’s Sound Board offers big names, big sounds and a big experience. 2901 Grand River Ave., Detroit. Guests must be 21 or older. (866) 782-9622 or www.motorcitycasino.com. The casino’s Chromatics Lounge also features live performances. O Melissa Etheridge: 7:30 p.m. April 22, $65-$85. O Freddie James: 7 p.m. April 18-19, 10 p.m. April 20, 5:15 p.m. April 21. O Dave Hamilton: 5:15 p.m. April 20. O Serieux: 10 p.m. April 21. O Random Family: 3:30 p.m. April 22. O Jimmy D. Scott: 7 p.m. April 23. O Intrigue: 7 p.m. April 24. O 80’s Inc: 7 p.m. April 25.
Mutz
This pub offers handcrafted brews … and live entertainment. 10 p.m.-2 a.m., Mutz at the Oliver House, 27 Broadway St. (419) 243-1302 or www.TheOliverHouseToledo.com. O DJ Nate Mattimoe: 10 p.m. Saturdays. O Jeff Stewart: April 20.
One2 Lounge at Treo
Live music starts at 7:30 p.m. 5703 Main St., Sylvania. (419) 882-2266 or treosylvania.com. O Skip Turner Band: April 20. O Tom Turner & Slow Burn: April 21.
Nouveau cuisine gets a helping of classic rock, R&B and jazz Thursdays through Saturdays. 104 Louisiana Ave., Perrysburg. (419) 873-8360 or www.stellasrestaurantandbar.com. O CJ Manning, Cookie Baylis: April 19. O Eddie Molina, Karen Harris: April 20. O Eddie Molina: April 21.
Table Forty 4
Tres Belle
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Natural Blondes and Sweethearts? Those are the martinis; you’ll have to decide about the musicians. 3145 Hollister Lane, Perrysburg. (419) 874-4555 or tresbellelounge.com. O Microphonics: 9 p.m. April 11.
Uptown Night Club
Rewired presents Goth Night at 9 p.m. Wednesdays. 160 N. Main St., Bowling Green. No cover. (419) 352-9310 or uptowndowntownbg.com.
The Village Idiot
TOLEDOFREEPRESS.COM / APRIL 18, 2012 n 13
O Bikini Babes, Space Gypsies, Phantom Limb Syndrome, Gashes: 10 p.m. April 20, $3. O Smoke Theory, Genocya, Megaton Hammer, Karmic Lava: April 21.
Yeeha’s
Country and rock with a little “Coyote Ugly” style. 3150 Navarre Ave., Oregon. (419) 691-8880 or www.yeehas.com. O Jane Doe: April 20. O Hello My Name Is: April 21.
Swingmania
With its focus on swing music, Jeff McDonald’s group of musicians provides a peek into another era, with music from bandleaders such as Benny Goodman, Glenn Miller, the Dorseys and more. With combos from trio to full orchestra, the performers provide music for all occasions. (419) 708-0265, (419) 874-0290 or www.swingmania.org. O Swing Revival Party: 8 p.m. Thursdays, South Briar Restaurant, 5147 S. Main St., Sylvania. (419) 517-1111 or (419) 708-0265. O Big Band All Stars: Dancing is encouraged. 8-10:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Trotters Tavern, 5131 Heatherdowns Blvd. (419) 381-2079 or (419) 708-0265. O Garden Party Spring Fling Dance: 7-11 p.m. April 20, Stranahan Great Hall, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd. $5.
UT concerts
The university’s music students and friends will perform the pieces they’ve been perfecting. (419) 530-2452, (419) 5302375 or www.utoledo.edu/as/music. O Symphony Orchestra: 7 p.m. April 19, Doermann Theater, University Hall, 2801 W. Bancroft St. O Opera workshop in performance: 8 p.m. April 20, Center for Performing Arts Recital Hall, Tower View Boulevard and West Campus Drive. O Community Chorus: “King David.” 7 p.m. April 22, St. Hyancinth Church, Parkside Boulevard and Victory Avenue. $4-$7. O Jazz Night: 7:30 p.m. April 23, Crystal’s Lounge, Ramada Hotel & Conference Center, 3536 Secor Road. $3-$5. (419) 535-7070.
Pavel Haas Quartet
Based in Prague, this foursome revels in Czech sounds, including its namesake’s compositions for strings. 7:30 p.m. April 18, University of Michigan, Rackham Auditorium, 915 E. Washington St., Ann Arbor. $20-$42. (734) 764-2538 or ums.org.
Straight No Chaser
This a cappella group is known for its witty Christmas tunes and imaginative reinventions of classic tunes. 7:30 p.m. April 19, Stranahan Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd. $24.50$43. (419) 381-8851 or www.stranahantheater.com.
Bela Fleck and the Flecktones
With the release of “Rocket Science,” the band’s first album in 20 years, the group brings its enthusiasm, musical meldings and globally influenced sounds back to the stage. 8 p.m. April 19, Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor. $29.50-$65. (734) 768-8397, (734) 668-8463 or www.michtheater.org.
Tunes combined with pizza and booze, some would say it’s a perfect combination. 309 Conant St., Maumee. (419) 8937281 or www.villageidiotmaumee.com. O Old West End Records: 8 p.m. Wednesdays. O Bob Rex Trio; the Eight-Fifteens: 6 and 10 p.m. Sundays. O Frankie May and friends: 10 p.m. Mondays. O Mark Mikel Band with Chris Shutters: 9 p.m. Tuesdays.
ProAm
Woodchucks
Toledo’s busiest musician will perform a solo set. 8-11 p.m. April 20, Great Lakes Eatery and Pub, 103 Cabela Blvd. East, Dundee. (734) 823-5253.
The place to go for an eclectic mix of people and music. 224 S. Erie St. (419) 241-3045.
Amateur musicians will join with Stefan Sanderling and Toledo Symphony musicians for this first-of-its-kind area concert of a program featuring works by Sibelius, Mussorgsky and more. 7:30 p.m. April 20, TMA Peristyle, 2445 Monroe St. Free. (419) 246-8000, (800) 348-1253 or www.toledosymphony.com.
Jason Quick
Ballet Theatre of Toledo showcase
The troupe will be joined by the SonoNovo Chamber Ensemble, Anthony/Brown Piano Duo, Perrysburg Symphony Chorale and the Toledo Zoo in a performance set to Mendelssohn’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and Saint-Saens’ “Carnival of the Animals.” 7 p.m. April 20-21 and 2 p.m. April 22, Trinity Episcopal Church, 1 Trinity Plaza. $15-$20. (419) 243-1231 or www.trinitytoledo.org.
Papa Do Run Run
This Beach Boys cover band will perform a summer-inspired set along with the Toledo Symphony. 8 p.m. April 21, Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd. $22-$62. (419) 246-8000, (800) 348-1253 or www.toledosymphony.com.
Rosanne Cash
This singer/songwriter has recently turned her attention to “The List,” a compilation of what father Johnny Cash considered “100 Essential Country Songs.” She’ll perform her own songs as well, such as “The Wheel” and “Tennessee Flat Top Box.” 7:30 p.m. April 21, Ritz Theatre, 20 S. Washington St., Tiffin. $30-$60. (419) 4488544 or www.ritztheatre.org.
The Fab Faux
These Beatles tribute artists will perform “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band,” along with other hits by the boys from Liverpool. 8 p.m. April 21, Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor. $29.50-$85. (734) 768-8397, (734) 668-8463 or www.michtheater.org.
TMA concerts
Visual and audible arts combine for a new experience. Great Gallery (unless noted), 2445 Monroe St. (419) 255-8000 or toledomuseum.org. O Denise Ritter Bernardini, Michael Boyd: 3 p.m. April 22.
Toledo Symphony Youth Orchestra
Young area musicians will put on a show of their talents. 4 p.m. April 22, YMCA/Start High School Auditorium, 2110 Tremainsville Road. Free. (419) 418-0050, (419) 246-8000, (800) 348-1253 or www.toledosymphony.com.
Academy of St. Martin in the Fields
This 54-year-old chamber orchestra has slated an allBeethoven program featuring superstar violinist Joshua Bell. 4 p.m. April 22, University of Michigan, Hill Auditorium, 825 N. University Ave., Ann Arbor. $10-$75. (734) 764-2538 or ums.org.
Toledo School for the Arts concert
“The Bride Elect,” by John Philip Sousa, is a comic operetta about an arranged marriage gone awry. 7 p.m. April 24, Trinity Episcopal Church, 1 Trinity Plaza. $4-$6. (419) 243-1231 or www.trinitytoledo.org.
New Edition
Original members Ronnie DeVoe, Bobby Brown, Johnny Gil, Ricky Bell, Ralph Tresvant and Michael Bivins will perform “Candy Girl,” “Mr. Telephone Man” and “Cool It Now,” as well as their solo hits. 8 p.m. April 27, Huntington Center, 500 Jefferson Ave. $47$89.50; $10 discount with password “BOBBY.” (419) 321-5007, (800) 745-3000 or www.huntingtoncentertoledo.com.
“Wartime Reflections: A Musical Postcard”
The Toledo Symphony will explore the musical theme of wartime memory as evidenced in compositions by Charles Ives, John Adams, Benjamin Britten and Ralph Vaughan-Williams. 8 p.m. April 27-28, TMA Peristyle, 2445 Monroe St. $21-$51. (419) 2468000, (800) 348-1253 or www.toledosymphony.com. O
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show entail? Embrace: The awards show weekend is a three day weekend and it starts on Friday. The official Ohio Hip Hop Awards Tour stops in Toledo on June 2, which would go right into the preparty. They have a showcase and if you win, you get to perform at the Ohio HipHop Awards and then you get the opportunity for a nomination in the best live performance category. On Saturday you have the official 419 Music Awards. The black carpet starts at 4 p.m and then the actual awards show starts at 5 p.m. Martini Rox: Why are you doing a showcase? Embrace: I can pick out five good artists literally just walking down two or three blocks. How do you narrow it down? How do I say who gets the opportunity to hit the stage? I don’t, I took myself out of that equation and made it pretty much the peoples choice. Five artists will be chosen. (May 19 is a pre-showcase to determine which artists will perform at the 419 Awards Showcase on June 22) Martini Rox: The event is called the 419 Music Awards Show and Music Conference. What genre of artists is this show open to? Embrace: There is a section for R&B artists and Hip-Hop as well. I have been approached by many genres of music — when I first got into the selection process of the name that was something I was very serious in thinking about “Do I just want to keep it in that realm?” But the reason why it started in Hip-Hop is because that’s where I’m from, I’m from the HipHop culture. I have opened categories up for R&B artists, videographers and DJs and all those categories, because I know to be an artist you need all of these elements in your life to make your career successful. Nominations are open until May 1. The weekend ends with a conference June 24 with a panel of music industry professionals. For more information about artist nominations and registration, visit, www.419musicawards.com. As we continue on ... O
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mbrace Enterprises was started by Edie “Embrace” Chatman, a manager/event planner/business woman who is always willing to network and share opportunities with other professionals around the city. It’s her company’s next move that could forever change the musical landscape of Toledo in terms of providing artists with knowledge, opportunity and, most importantly, recognition. The weekend of June 22-24 will be Toledo’s first Hip-Hop based awards show/conference. The response to the show has been so overwhelming, Embrace plans to open it up to all genres in the 419 area code as early as next year. Her goal is to stress the importance of networking and participants will also have the opportunity to register to vote at the event. Martini Rox: What prompted you to produce the 419 Music Awards Showcase? Embrace: I’m a representative for the Ohio Hip Hop Awards and after working with them and seeing what we call “the magic” and having a platform for the whole state of Ohio, I just felt that my region needed the same kind of exposure to get their attention, to get them motivated. I know there’s a lot of talent in this area and I think if I can get them motivated in this area, they can move on to a bigger stage. We’ve had a lot of success stories come out of the Ohio Hip Hop Awards, so I definitely wanted to continue to channel that. Martini Rox: What makes this event different from other workshops, conferences or showcases like it? Embrace: What makes it different for us is there is nothing in this region like it. For the amount of violence you see in this area, it’s that many more people doing great things that they never get accolades for. From producers, engineers, to videographers, to photographers, they never get accolades for what they do besides the clients that pay them to do it. Martini Rox: When is the 419 Music Awards Show and Music Conference? What all will the
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bright neon yellow, orange, pink or green in any shoe is a definite must this season. The colors look amazing paired with black, white, silver, gold or other complementing neon colors. Try to keep your overall look subdued so that your shoes are the focus of your outfit. Wedges are a girl’s best friend. Wedge sandals are not only adorable, but extremely comfortable. Wedges are the perfect all around shoe because they look great with a simple maxi dress, for the office with a pair of ankle pants or widelegged trousers, or for going out at night with a pair of skinny jeans or fun dress. This season, wedges can be found in neutrals, bright colors and prints. They are a must-buy this season because they will literally go with anything in your closet. Strappy flat sandals. After a long day at work or while doing errands around town on the weekends, we still want to look cute, but do not always want the pain of heels on our feet. This season, strappy flat sandals are an absolute must. Best of all, they come in fun colors with intricate detail like fringe, feathers, gold buckles, or multicolored straps. There are a variety of adorable, inexpensive options so you can feel more free to get a couple of pairs. Colorblock. With so many colors to choose from this season, why not combine two, three or four into one pair of shoes? Colorblock shoes are fantastic because they allow you to have so many different outfit options and looks in one. Colorblock shoes are funky, stylish and girly all in one. They scream Spring and look amazing paired with anything in your closet. This spring’s styles are feminine, funky, retro and classic all in one. Take a look at some of these fabulous spring 2012 fashion shoe trends. Remember, the sky truly is the limit when it comes to shoes. So have fun, stand tall (or short depending on what shoes you are wearing) and never forget to make it your own. O
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Sacred dances Cassandra School of Ballet offers April recitals. By Brigitta Burks Toledo Free Press Star Staff Writer star@toledofreepress.com
In late April, the Cassandra School of Ballet will present its 39th annual spring performance, “An Evening at the Ballet,” which audience members are sure to love, said the school’s founder. “I’m excited to see what [the performance is] going to look like. Right now in rehearsal, it looks beautiful,” said Cassandra Macino, founder and artistic director of the school. About 60 dancers, ages 3 to 19, will show off a year’s worth of work for the spring performance. Many of the older students have studied with Macino since they were little, she said. The show includes a “Spanish-flaired” piece with four of the school’s strongest dancers, Macino said. The “very aerobic” routine is challenging. “The girls are winded when they’re done,” Macino said. The performance also features two Christian-themed or “sacred” dances. Macino grew up in the arts community of Toledo. Her father was an opera singer who en-
couraged her to pursue ballet. “He’s really the influence in my life,” she said of her father. “The parents are the ones who are really leading the way and strengthening their child’s future.” The dancer studied with Gail Grant-Ryan in Toledo before attending the School of American Ballet in New York City. After Macino graduated, she stayed in New York auditioning before she decided to return to Toledo. “I decided I would rather be living in Toledo, running my own school, teaching young girls to dance,” she said. Macino opened the Cassandra School of Ballet in 1972. “I look back and I just can’t believe the amount of time that’s gone by,” Macino said, who added that she greatly enjoys teaching young girls. “It’s like you’re watering a little plant and watching it blossom,” she said. The spring performance is 7:30 p.m. April 21 and 3 p.m. April 22 at the Maumee Performing Arts Center at Maumee High School, 1147 Saco St. Tickets are $17-$25. Call (419) 475-0458 or visit http://cassandraballet.com for more information. O
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“Europe is much more progressive than America. I think they got the point earlier.” — Josh Blue
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Catch “Jedi of Pop Culture” Jeff McGinnis on Tuesday mornings on 92.5 KISS-FM.
Fact or fiction? A publication of Toledo Free Press, LLC, Vol.3, No.16 Established 2010. Thomas F. Pounds, President/Publisher tpounds@toledofreepress.com Michael S. Miller, Editor in Chief mmiller@toledofreepress.com EDITORIAL
Mary Ann Stearns, Design Editor mastearns@toledofreepress.com James A. Molnar, Lead Designer jmolnar@toledofreepress.com Sarah Ottney, Special Sections Editor sottney@toledofreepress.com Jeff McGinnis, Pop Culture Editor PopGoesJeff@gmail.com Whitney Meschke, Web Editor news@toledofreepress.com ADMINISTRATION
Pam Burson, Business Manager pburson@toledofreepress.com CONTRIBUTORS star@toledofreepress.com Jim Beard • Amy Campbell • Zach Davis John Dorsey • Matt Feher • Jerry Gray Dustin Hostetler • Stacy Jurich Vicki L. Kroll • lilD • Martini • Jason Mack Rachel Richardson Julie Webster • Don Zellers
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“RMS Titanic sank in the early hours of April 15 1912, after being struck by an iceberg during her maiden voyage from Southampton to New York. “But for many of the younger generation, the ship is more familiar from the 1997 film about its demise starring Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio. “And it seems that several fans of the movie failed to grasp that it was based on a true story — albeit with invented characters.” — “Just found out Titanic really happened!’ The tweeters who thought world’s most famous shipwreck was just a film” — The Daily Mail, April 14, 2012
F
JEFF
Did you know some movies are based on real events?
Ben Affleck, Josh Hartnett and Kate Beckinsale. “Indiana Jones” — Not real. But — you won’t believe this — in that World War II thing, there were these bad guys called Nazis. “The Alamo” — Real! A personal story: I was working at Maumee 18 Cinema De Lux when the latest movie version was released in 2005. We got very, very used to customers asking us what it was about. I had my standard answer: “It’s about the Battle of the Alamo ... the pivotal battle in the revolution between Texas settlers and Mexico?” One day, upon hearing this, a woman said to her companion, “Oh, I love Civil War movies!” I may have invented the facepalm that day. “Toy Story” — Not real. At least, as far as we know. Many researchers have spent years attempting to prove the film’s theory that toys are alive when humans aren’t around. But, no matter how many hours spent lurking
mCGINNIS
POP GOES THE
CULTURE
or the benefit of those who were unaware Titanic was a real thing, here is a quick primer on other famous movies and whether they were based on actual events: “JFK” — Real! Well, sort of. There was a guy named John F. Kennedy who was the president of the United States back in the 1960s and he was assassinated. Most of the rest of the movie seems to have been based on research done by director Oliver Stone while wearing a tin foil hat. “Star Wars” — Not real. Although, on the plus side, we can all pretend that Jar Jar Binks never existed and, technically, we’d be right. “Apollo 13” — Real! Of course, there is some debate in recent years on whether or not the moon landings were faked, typically by folks whose research was conducted while a seat or two away from Oliver Stone. “Dawn of the Dead” — Not real. A lot of folks claim that groups of shuffling, terrifying creatures descend upon shopping malls on a near-daily basis, but after further research these are just morning mall-walkers from the local nursing home. “Braveheart” — Real! William Wallace was a real Scottish warrior. Of course, he also lived for a few years longer than the movie depicted. In addition, he looked nothing like that guy who spouts anti-Semitic bullsh*t nowadays. “Paranormal Activity” — Not real. Seriously. I know, right? It seemed so convincing that those two would spend every waking hour taping themselves on the off chance that something horrifying would happen! And that a movie studio would then release footage of their terrible demise in theaters! “Cinderella Man” — Real! Sadly, by contrast, “Rocky” was fake. So was “Real Steel.” Damn, life just isn’t fair, is it? “Pearl Harbor” — Real! There was this thing called World War II (man, everything gets a sequel, doesn’t it?) which saw the Japanese attack
just outside the door of their kids’ rooms and bursting in (usually screaming, “AHA!”), no toy has been caught in the act yet. Except, of course, for Teddy Ruxpin, who everyone knows is alive. And terrifying. “W.” — Real! As shocking as it may seem, there was this guy named George W. Bush that the American public entrusted with the highest office in the land — twice! Terrifying, isn’t it? “The Social Network” — Real! And what’s more, did you know there was a Facebook before Facebook? It’s true! Go to MySpace.com. Though many have forgotten its existence, cultural anthropologists argue that at one time, this was one of the most popular sites on the Internet! Can you believe it? “Pirates of the Caribbean” — Not real. Man, Darth Vader, Indiana Jones and Captain Jack Sparrow were all fictional characters? What the hell, world? Next thing you’re gonna tell me is that there’s no Santa Claus! “Santa Claus: The Movie” — Not real. Oh, snap. Read the original article at: http://bit.ly/ twittertitanic. O Email Toledo Free Press Star Pop Culture Editor Jeff McGinnis at PopGoesJeff@ gmail.com.
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“Miami is a little eccentric for my taste, but I can stand it for the weekend.” — Josh Blue