Z贸calo
Tucson Urban Scene Magazine / October 2011 / TheZMag.com
zó•ca•lo Mexican Spanish. 1. a public square or plaza, esp. in the center of a city. 2. a gathering place or the center of activity in a community. Zócalo Tucson Magazine is an independently published community magazine, showcasing Tucson’s urban arts and culture. EDITOR Jamie Manser PRODUCTION ARTISTS Troy Martin, David Olsen CONTRIBUTORS Marisa Bernal, Dave Califano, VK Embee, Gerald Gay, Emily Gindlesparger, Polly Higgins, Kelly Lewis, Jim Lipson, Jamie Manser, Troy Martin, Phoenix Michael, David Olsen, Rafael Otto, Herb Stratford. ADVERTISING Marie Hancock PUBLISHER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR David Olsen
CONTACT US: frontdesk@zocalotucson.com P.O. Box 1171 Tucson, AZ 85702-1171 520.955.ZMAG (9624)
October 2011
04 ARTS 05 FILM 14 TUCSON ROCKS 21 FOOD&DRINK 32 EVENTS 35 COMMUNITY 42 TUNES 47
FROM THE EDITOR OCTOBER - “Tucson Rocks: Celebrating the Art of Rock & Roll.”
ON THE COVER: Photo © Baron Wolman, the original photographer for Rolling Stone, featuring Jimi Hendrix at the Fillmore West, San Francisco (1968), gelatin silver print. Courtesy of Etherton Gallery. Baron’s photographs appear at Etherton Gallery along with photos by Lynn Goldsmith, through November 12. See page 22 for more details.
Zócalo Tucson Magazine is a proud member of All content copyright © 2011 by Media Zócalo, LLC. Reproduction of any material in this or any other issue is prohibited without written permission from the publisher and author. No person may, without prior written permission of the publisher, take more than one copy of each issue.
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I love rock & roll, so put another dime in the jukebox, baby. Joan Jett and the Blackhearts’ lip-curling, fist-pumping, attitude-dripping song is one of the quintessential rock anthems of the early 80s. To me, it epitomizes Tucson’s spirit this month with the city-wide Tucson Rocks! photography, art and music-related exhibits and events. It started in September with Etherton Gallery’s “Rockin’ The Desert” show, which continues through November. Though not official participants, I’d say the Oct. 1 Fall Crawl certainly resonates with the theme, as does the Tucson Film and Music Festival, Oct. 6-10. Over 20 organizations are on the “bona fide” bandwagon, including: 2nd Saturdays on Oct. 8, which is when “Tucson Shot Rock” opens (a pop-up photo exhibit curated by Zócalo’s publisher, David Olsen); the University of Arizona Poetry Center, MOCA, University of Arizona Museum of Art, Sacred Machine and many others. The movement was initiated by the Tucson Museum of Art, which is showcasing the Brooklyn Museum exhibit “Who Shot Rock & Roll: A Photographic History, 1955 to the Present,” starting Oct. 22. See pages 21-31 for the Zócalo scoop and TucsonRocks.org for the full calendar. The coolness of Tucson Rocks! is in the stories behind the music, featuring everything from who the photographers were, what the instrument makers do, to the poetry of high profile celebs. The coolness of October is not only the declining temps, but also lies in the awesomeness of the 38th annual Tucson Meet Yourself event. Talk about stories! During the three day festival, Tucsonans are exposed to the eclectic, ethnic folkways of this town. As “Big Jim” Griffith says on page 44, it’s about “viewing each other as part of a kind of an ‘us’ rather than a large and possibly scary bunch of ‘thems.’” – Jamie Manser
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Phone-ography
The new photography? by Courtney Ludwig Cell phone technology has come along way from merely being a brick-weighted, hand held communicator in the early 90s. These mobile conveniences, owned by most of the populace, are generally equipped with stellar cameras. The things we can do with our cell phone lenses today are absolutely amazing. What is captured by a cell phone camera can sometimes be a better picture than what is taken with a tricked-out, expensive professional camera. With these portable camera phones, a picture can be taken at any moment, perhaps even arty images, an art form taking on the “phoneorgraphy” moniker. To that end, Arts Eye Gallery, an exhibit space nestled inside of Photographic Works at 3550 E. Grant Rd., is showcasing “Phone-ography” images in a juried show from Oct. 22 to Nov. 28. Having had a chance to look over some of the photos that will be displayed promises for an impressive, artistic and eye-catching show. The idea behind this exhibit is to share what a creative tool the cell phone really can be and is and you don’t have to be a professional to use it. n
Signorina by Lisa Roden
Opening reception is Oct. 22, 6pm-9pm; the shows until Nov. 28. For more information visit ArtsEye.com or call 325-0260.
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“Flora’s Garden” by Neda Contreras shows at Contreras Gallery in October.
“Cherries” by Donald Carlson, exhibits at Philbaum Glass Studio and Gallery.
art Galleries/exhibits ART GALLERY
The Time is Now continues through Oct 23. Open Thurs-Sat, 11am-4pm and by appointment, 405-5800. 1122 N. Stone Ave.
ARTSEYE GALLERY
Phone-ography showcases artist’s submitted images captured using a phone camera. Artist reception on Sat, Oct 22. Mon-Fri, 9am6pm; Sat 10am-5pm. 3550 E. Grant Rd. 327-7291, ArtsEye.com
BLUE RAVEN GALLERY
Highlands, Lowlands: A Green Journey exhibits through Nov 5. Thu, noon-4pm; Fri, noon-5pm; Sat 11am-5pm. 3042 N. 1st Ave. 623-1003, BlueRavenGalleryandGifts.com
CONTRERAS GALLERY El Dia de los Muertos exhibit opens Sat, Oct 1 with a reception from 6pm-10pm and shows through Sat, Oct 29. Tues-Fri 11am-5pm, Sat 11am-4pm. 110 E. 6th St. 398-6557, ContrerasHouseFineArt.com
DECO Ignite: Neon and Light Art Show - a collection of contemporary lights created by local artists opens Sat, Oct 22 and runs through Jan 15. Tue-Wed, Sat, 11am4pm; Thu-Fri, 11am-5pm. 2612 E. Broadway Blvd. 319-0888, DecoArtTucson.com
DAVIS DOMINGUEZ GALLERY
The Polks - paintings and watercolors by Andrew Polk and lithographs by Kathryn Polk continues through Nov 5. The Big Picture 2011 reception Sat, Oct 1 from 6pm-8pm. Tues-Fri, 11am-5pm; Sat, 11am4pm. 154 E. 6th St. 629-9759, DavisDominguez.com
THE DRAWING STUDIO Landscape (un) Tamed: Order and Chaos in the Natural World drawings and painting by Betina Fink & Meredith Milstead opens Sat, Oct 1, reception from 6pm-9pm. Tue-Sat, noon-4pm. 33 S. 6th Ave. 620-0947, TheDrawingStudio.org
ETHERTON GALLERY
Rockin’ the Desert: Photographs by Baron Wolman and Lynn Goldsmith exhibits through Nov 12. Tue-Sat, 11am-5pm. 135 S. 6th Ave. 624-7370, EthertonGallery.com
JOSEPH GROSS GALLERY Art by Gregory Euclide shows through Nov 17. ‘Impetus’ by Thinkspace Gallery runs though Nov 9. Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm; Sat-Sun, 10am-4pm. 1031 N. Olive Rd. 626-4215, CFA.Arizona.edu/galleries
LOUIS CARLOS BERNAL GALLERY Limited Edition: Prints From ArtistCollectors opens Mon, Oct 24, exhibits through Dec 16. Mon, Wed 10:30am-5pm; Tue, Thu 10am-5pm; Fri 10am-3pm. 2202 W. Anklam Rd.206-6942, Pima.Edu/cfa
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“Gateway to the Mountain,” a new acrylic by Diana Madaras shows at her Skyline Drive gallery.
MADARAS GALLERY
Diana Madaras opens her annual show, Fresh Color, showcasing 25 new watercolor and acrylic originals on Sun, Oct 16 with a reception from 1pm-4pm. Mon-Fri, 9:30 am-5:30pm. 3001 E. Skyline Dr. 623-4000, Madaras.com
PHILABAUM GLASS STUDIO & GALLERY Harvest opens Sat, Oct 1 with a reception from 5pm-8pm. Tue-Sat, 10am-5pm. 711 S. 6th Ave. 884-7404, PhilabaumGlass.com
SACRED MACHINE Calexico: A Retrospective continues through Nov 6. WedFri, 1pm-4pm; Sat, 4pm-9pm; Sun, 3pm-6pm. 245 E. Congress St. 777-7403, SacredMachine.com
SOUTHERN ARIZONA WATERCOLOR GUILD GALLERY
An all member exhibit Autumn October Blast opens Sun, Oct 2 with a reception on Fri, Oct 14 from 5pm-7pm. Tues-Sun, 11am-4pm. 5605 E. River Rd. Watercolor-Sawg.org
STONE DRAGON STUDIO Lawrence W. Lee: Paintings and Sculptures continues through Oct 29. Open Thurs-Sat, 11am-4pm and by appointment. 1122 N. Stone Ave. 405-5800
TEMPLE GALLERY Stephen E. Strom: Earth and Mars continues through Oct 18. Nick Georgiou: Paper Elegies opens Fri, Oct 21; exhibits through Nov 22. Reception Fri, Oct 28 at 5:30pm. Mon–Fri, 10am-5pm. 330 S. Scott Ave. 624-7370, EthertonGallery.com
TUCSON MUSEUM OF ART Who Shot Rock & Roll: A Photographic History, 1955 to the Present showcases a variety of rock stars in different lights. Opens Oct. 22 and runs through Jan. 15, 2012. Art of Latin America continues through Feb 28, 2013; Han and Beyond- The Renaissance of China: The James Conley Collection continues through Jan 31, 2014. Tue-Sat, 10am-4pm; Sun, noon-4pm. $8, adults; $6, seniors; $3, students 13+; free, children under 12, members Free to all the first Sunday of the month. 140 N. Main Ave. 624-2333, TucsonMuseumofArt.org
UA ART MUSEUM Good Vibrations: The Guitar as Design, Craft and Function opens Fri, Oct 21; shows until Jan 15, 2012. Tue-Fri, 9am-5pm; Sat-Sun, noon-4pm. $5 adults; children/students/faculty, free. 1031 N. Olive Rd. ArtMuseum.arizona.edu
UA POETRY CENTER Celebrity Poets exhibit opens on Mon, Oct 10, exhibits through Dec 23. Mon/Thurs, 9am-8pm; Tues/ Wed, 9am-6pm; Fri, 9am-5pm. 1508 E. Helen St, Poetry.Arizona.Edu
Caricature of Emily Dickinson by John Sherffius.
Coming Down from the Attic Emily Dickinson shines across town in The Big Read by Emily Gindlesparger This fall, Tucson will be all about Emily. Kore Press, local publisher of women’s literature, is bringing The Big Read to the Old Pueblo, with Emily Dickinson at the helm. “The Big Read is an initiative of the National Endowment for the Arts and it’s basically designed to restore reading to the center of American culture,” explains Kore Press publisher Lisa Bowden. “There’s a lot of fear around poetry,” says Bowden. “People feel like ‘someone has to explain this to me.’ I really want to create a different experience around poetry for people.” And so she will: from now through Dec. 10, Dickinson’s poems will be splashed across SunTran busses, interpreted into dance and music performances, slammed at libraries and coffee shops, sketched into temporary tattoos, and even texted from classrooms, an idea hatched from Emily D’s Spartan lines. “Her work is so spare, the lines are so short. She was a master of concision and compression, like a diamond,” Bowden says of the poems. Big Read presentations around town will highlight Dickinson’s faceted—if closeted—life. Her first book, a collection of pressed flowers and plants titled “Herbarium” is on display at the Poetry Center, and a Feast pastry chef will be recreating her 19th century recipes. “I wanted to kind of create a circus, and I brought in every person and artist and scholar and organization that would have something to contribute. We ended up with 40 partners. It’s been sort of wildfire from the beginning, people really light up about it. “I’m looking forward to bringing all these amazing people into Tucson and bringing a lot of light. Tucson and Arizona needs that. I love the idea of using art and using Emily Dickinson—this amazing female who really created a life for herself that was unique and against the grain and really holding her up—as a way to bring Tucson together. In a way, that’s my act of civility,” Bowden adds. “We’re going to rock Tucson with Emily.” n For a full schedule of Emily Dickinson events all over town, plus more information on Kore Press, visit KorePress.org or call 327-2127. The closing celebration is on Dec. 10 (Emily’s birthday) and coincides with 2nd Saturdays Downtown.
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© Kathleen Dreier_Esens Photography
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Cell Block Tango by Emily Gindlesparger
© Kathleen Dreier_Esens Photography
Chicago is a town where murderesses want to be show-biz stars, where the rumor mill is hard-hitting journalism, and where the courtroom is a stage for sleight of hand lawyers and verdicts are results for a popularity contest. At least that’s how it is in Bob Fosse’s vision, coauthor of the stunning musical “Chicago.” “I always like a good challenge, and Bob Fosse is my all-time favorite musical theater icon,” says Robert Encila, co-founder of Studio Connections, a local non-profit visual arts and theater center. The Studio Connections resident stage troupe, the da Vinci Players, is bringing “Chicago” to the Zuzi stage, 738 N. 5th Ave., this month and opening night is Oct.7. “I’m intrigued by his ability to get people to look at the darkest subjects and to question morality while managing to entertain at the same time.” With sultry numbers like “All That Jazz,” “When You’re Good To Mama,” and “Cell Block Tango,” the show is packed with dancing. “I also wanted to open the season with a big bang, and there’s nothing better than a dance-heavy production,” says director Encila. Founded in 2002 from the back of a pickup
truck full of art supplies, Studio Connections began as a middle school summer camp with the goal to give kids access to the arts. It soon grew to a full-fledged studio with visual arts and theater classes for young people and adults. “The da Vinci Players had its genesis seven years ago as an acting class for teenagers, sort of an after-school outreach to keep young people off the streets,” says Encila. The da Vinci Players have since become a full production troupe “inspired by a very talented group of young adults who craved an artistic home outside of the college environment,” Encila explains. “It’s a diverse cast of young adults with a really vibrant energy. “I look forward to all that collective hard work resulting in what I hope to be a very electrically charged and cohesive performance.” Performances are Oct. 7-8, 13-15 at 7:30pm and Oct. 8, 9, 15 at 3 pm. General admission is $28, military/senior/student, $25. For tickets, call 1-800-838-3006. StudioConnections.net, 329-3707.
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Arts
Performances ART.if.ACT
Arizona Theatre Company
by Herb Stratford
photo: James Minchin
ATC continues to have its fingers on the pulse of the theatre world with the October offering, “God of Carnage.” The play by Yasmina Reza, details the aftermath of a childhood playground incident between two sets of parents and the escalation of their interaction. This 2009 Tonyaward winning play is also being turned into a film by director Roman Polanski, starring Jodi Foster and Kate Winslet, due out this December, but make sure you experience the play live. “God of Carnage” runs from October 22 through November 12 at the Temple of Music and Art, 330 S. Scott Ave. ArizonaTheatre.org
Fantastique Opening
UA Presents hosts K.D. Lang on Oct. 15. Ed Flores Photography
The Tucson Symphony Orchestra presents its season opener on October 14 and 16 at the Tucson Music Hall. Featuring a program of music composed by Rachmaninoff, Berlioz and Theofanidis, the concert features guest pianist Fabio Bidini. It should be a sensational kick off to the Symphony’s 2011-2012 season, taking place at TCC’s Music Hall, 260 S. Church Ave. TucsonSymphony.org
UA Presents
photo courtesty Tucson Symphony Orchestra
There’s something for everyone in October, thanks to UA Presents eclectic calendar. It starts off with comedian Bill Maher on Oct. 2, followed by: Japan’s Yamato drummers on Oct. 9, crooner K.D. Lang on Oct. 15, The Miles Davis Experience on Oct. 16, Water Is Rising: Music and Dance Amid Climate Change on Oct.21, and dance/performance group Pilobolus on Oct. 23. The month wraps up on Oct. 28 with ETHEL, America’s premier post-classical string quartet, and Grammy-winning Native American flutist Robert Mirabal. Single event tickets are on sale for all performances, which take place at Centennial Hall, 1020 E. University Blvd. UAPresents.org
Independent Film
TSO presents Pianist Fabio Bidini
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The Loft Cinema is showing great films this month including: noir thriller “Brighton Rock,” documentary “Shut Up Little Man! An Audio Misadventure,” the horror-comedy hybrid “Tucker and Dale versus Evil” and the intriguing documentary “Senna,” which details the behind-the-scenes world of formula one racing and its biggest, brightest star Aryton Senna. The Loft is located at 3233 E. Speedway Blvd., and online at LoftCinema.com n
Claire Hancock and Ashley Bowman perform The Unicorn, Gorgon and Manticore with the Arizona Choir and conductor Dr. Bruce Chamberlain. Performances held on Sat, Oct 22 at 7pm and Sun, Oct 23 at 2pm. Stevie Eller Dance Theatre, 1713 E. University Blvd. 621-1162, ArtIfActDanceProject.com
ARIZONA FRIENDS OF CHAMBER MUSIC The Jerusalem String Quartet presents an evening of Beethoven, Shostakovich, and Brahms. Wed, Oct 5 at 7:30pm. TCC’s Leo Rich Theatre, 260 S. Church Ave. 577-3769, ArizonaChamberMusic.org
ARIZONA OPERA
“When a clown is betrayed, it’s no laughing matter.” Cavalleria Rusticana & Pafliacci is a tale of jealousy, revenge and violence. Sat, Oct 1 at 7:30pm, and Sun, Oct 2 at 2pm. TCC’s Music Hall, 260 S. Church Ave. 293-4336, AZOpera.com
ARIZONA ROSE THEATRE COMPANY Spend a night at a roadside diner in a small town 30 miles west of Kansas City with Bus Stop from Sat, Oct 15-Sun, Oct 23. Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm and Sundays at 2pm. Temple of Music and Art’s Cabaret Theatre, 330 S. Scott Ave. 888-0509, ArizonaRose.cc
ARIZONA THEATRE COMPANY
Sherlock Holmes and the Adventure of the Suicide Club continues through Sat, Oct 8. God of Carnage opens Sat, Oct 22 and continues through Sat, Nov 12. Various show times. Temple of Music and Art, 330 S. Scott Ave. 8848210, ArizonaTheatre.org
BALLET TUCSON
The 2011-2012 season opens with a collection of three diverse ballets. Opening night gala takes place Fri, Oct 28 at 6:30pm with a performance at 8pm. Additional season opener performances are on Sat, Oct 29 at 2pm &7:30 pm and Sun, Oct 30 at 2pm. Stevie Eller Dance Theatre, 1713 E. University Blvd. 903-1445, BalletTucson.org.
BEOWULF ALLEY THEATRE Rough Crossing, by Oscar and Tony Award-winning Tom Stoppard, continues through Sun, Oct 2. Lear by William Shakespeare opens Thurs, Oct 27 and continues through November. Active Imagination Theatre presents A Weenie Halloween: Oct. 15-16, 22- 23, 29-30 at noon. Old Time Radio Theatre presents classic radio shows the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month. Times and prices vary for each performance. Beowulf Alley Theatre, 11 S. 6th Ave. 882-0555, BeowulfAlley.org BERGER PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Old Blind Dogs in Concert return direct from Scotland to perform their bagpipes, whistles, guitars and vocals. Thurs, Oct. 6, 7:30pm-9:30pm. 1200 W. Speedway Blvd. 770-3762, BergerCenter.com
BLACK CHERRY BURLESQUE
Tantalizing burlesque performance on Fri, Oct. 7 at 8pm and 10pm. Surly Wench Pub, 424 N. 4th Ave. 882-0009, TucsonBurlesque.com
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photo: Rachel Castillo
photo: Larry Hanelin
The bi-annual No Frills Dance Happenin’ at Zuzi! Dance Company is Oct 28-29.
Performances,
continued
BORDERLANDS THEATER 26 Miles continues through Sun, Oct 2 at The Temple of Music and Art. Arizona: No Roosters in the Desert runs Thurs, Oct 20-Sun, Oct 23. Back by popular demand, this play showcases the trek of four women through the desert towards the American dream. Various times and prices. Zuzi’s Theater, 738 N. 5th Ave. 882-7406, BorderlandsTheater.org
BOYS R US Creep Show: The Nine Layers of HellFri, Oct 21-Sat, Oct 22; Fri, Oct 28-Sat, Oct 29. Special guests Switchblade Parade and the Human Project. Seating $10 and $20 VIP. Fluxx Productions, 414 E. 9th St. TucsonDragKings.com
BROADWAY IN TUCSON Shrek The Musical, based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks film, brings the hilarious story of Shrek and Donkey to Tucson’s stage. Thurs, Oct 18-Sun, Oct 23. Various times and prices. TCC’s Music Hall, 260 S. Church Ave. 9032929, BroadwayInTucson.com
CARNIVAL OF ILLUSION
Every Friday and Saturday throughout October, witness the mind twisting illusions of Sarlot and Eyed. Tucson Double Tree Hotel, 445 S. Alvernon Way. 615-5299, CarnivalOfIllusion.com
THE GASLIGHT THEATRE
The Wizard of the Rings “One Spoof To Rule Them All” continues through Nov 13. 7010 E. Broadway Blvd. 886-9428, TheGaslightTheatre.com
LIVE THEATRE WORKSHOP
Boys R Us, with The Human Project and Switch Blade Parade, present “Creep Show” in October.
Three Viewings by Jeffrey Hatcher continues through Sun, Oct 2. The Three Musketeers continues every Sunday at 1pm through Sun, Oct 23. The Foreigner debuts Thurs, Oct 6 and follows a devious group of characters dealing with a stranger they think does not speak English. Vari-
ous times and prices. Live Theatre Workshop, 5317 E. Speedway Blvd. 327-4242, LiveTheatreWorkshop.org
NOT BURNT OUT JUST UNSCREWED The improv comedy troupe performs Fri, Oct 7, 7:30 pm at Revolutionary Grounds Coffee House, 606 N. 4th Ave.; Fri, Oct 21, 7pm at Rock N Java Cafe, 7555 W. Twin Peaks Rd. Free. 861-2986, UnscrewedComedy.com
ODYSSEY STORYTELLING SERIES Double O Story Slam presents Boo: Scary Stories on Mon, Oct 3 at 7pm at Fluxx Studios, 414 E. 9th St. Oy Gay: Merging Jewish and LGBT Identities debuts at the Jewish Community Center, 3800 E. River Rd., on Sun, Oct 30. 730-4112, OdysseyStorytelling.com
PCC THEATRE ARTS Treasure Island continues through Sun, Oct 2 at 2pm. The Rodriguez & Keepe Duo: Sax on a Piano perform Sun, Oct 2, 3pm. Classical Guitar: Ben McCartney, Oct. 9, 3pm; Vocal Recital: Dean & Anna Schoff, Oct. 16, 3pm; Wind Ensemble, Oct. 20, 7:30pm; Chorale & College Singers, Oct. 23, 3pm. 2202 W. Anklam Rd. 206-6670, Pima.edu/cfa
SUPER HAPPY FUN TIME A two hour neoburlesque show with all-original music on Wed, Oct 19 at 9pm. Club Congress, 311 E. Congress St. 6228848, HotelCongress.com
TUCSON CONVENTION CENTER
Disney on Ice: Toy Story 3! Woody, Buzz and all of Andy’s toys will dance and sing on ice from Thurs, Oct 13-Sun, Oct 16. Tucson Convention Center, 260 S. Church Ave. 837-4753, TucsonConventionCenter.org
TUCSON JAZZ SOCIETY SAACA; Jazz legends take you on a journey through the History of Jazz on Sat, Oct 1 at 7pm at Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress St. Jazz Under the Stars Fall Series at Tohono Chul Park, 7336 N. Paseo Del Norte, features The Original Wildcat Jazz Band on Fri, Oct 14 at 7:30pm; Lisa Otey and Friends on Fri, Oct 28 at 7:30pm. 9031265, TucsonJazz.org
TUCSON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
The Classic Series, with conductor George Hansen and pianist Fabio Bidini, opens the season with Fantastique on Fri, Oct 14 at 8pm and Sun, Oct 16 at 2pm; TCC’s Music Hall, 260 S. Church Ave. Moveable Music Feasts presents a wind quintet and flute viola harp trio on Sun, Oct 23 at 5:30pm at Tanque Verde Guest Ranch, 14301 E. Speedway Blvd. 882-8585, TucsonSymphony.org
UA’S ARIZONA REPERTORY THEATRE Onstage from Oct. 9-30 is Hay Fever – featuring the eccentric Bliss family who thrust unsuspecting weekend guests into peculiar world of melodramatic scenarios and comedic chaos. Tornabene Theatre, 1025 N. Olive Rd. 621-1162, web.cfa.arizona.edu/theatre
UA PRESENTS Sun, Oct 2: Bill Maher. Sun, Oct 9: Yamato, The Drummers of Japan. Sat, Oct 15: K.D. Lang. Sun, Oct 16: The Miles Davis Experience. Fri, Oct 21: Water is Rising. Sun, Oct 23: Pilobolus. Fri, Oct 28: ETHEL & Robert Mirabal. Various times and prices. Centennial Hall, 1020 E. University Blvd. 6213341, UAPresents.org
ZUZI! DANCE COMPANY
The bi-annual No Frills Dance Happenin’ presents a variety of performers sharing performances on the ground and in the air; Fri, Oct 28-Sat, Oct 29, 7:30pm. Zuzi’s Little Theater, 738 N. 5th Ave. 629-0237, ZUZIMoveIt.org
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Film
Distillation of Discovery
If you think you know about Prohibition, think again. by Jamie Manser
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Prohibition was supported by most Americans, and initially seemed to work. Quickly though, people found ways to profit off of it and began to defy the law – from home brew sold to neighbors, to speakeasies and bloody gang wars over alcohol distribution, along with vast networks of bribery and corruption. The strict Volstead Act (federal law applying the 18th Amendment) whetted normal citizens to become scofflaws, as the Act defined any beverage containing over one half of one percent alcohol illegal. It did, however, allow for medicinal prescriptions and sacramental wines. During the course of Prohibition, there would be six million prescriptions and the demand for sacramental wines would go up by millions of gallons a year. A Nation of Scofflaws delves into the difficulties of enforcing the law, the strain on the court systems, sympathetic bootleggers like Roy Olmstead and George Remus, and the blatant, widespread disregard for the amendment from the average person to President Warren G. Harding’s whiskey-fueled poker meetings. A Nation of Hypocrites, the third episode, begins in 1926. As contemptuous feelings for the law’s extremism grew, so did deaths from gang wars and drinking illegal liquor made from 1930. industrial alcohol. It was a chaotic period that featured great music, expansion of women’s liberation, and corruption at every level of government. It put democracy on trial. Enthralling personalities are showcased in this episode, including: Chicago’s corrupt Republican mayor Big Bill Thompson, mobster boss Al Capone, Assistant Attorney General Mabel Walker Willebrant (whose personal evolution Mr. Burns describes as is “the whole arc of the story”), political activist Pauline Sabin, New Yorker writer “Lipstick” Lois Long and many others. Prohibition’s effects mirror modern times. As Mr. Burns elucidates, “You begin to realize that so many of the themes are contemporary with single issue political campaigns that metastasize with horrible unintended consequences, the demonization of recent immigrants to the United States, smear campaigns during presidential elections, a whole group of people who feel that they’ve lost control of their country and are determined to take it back and don’t compromise, warrantless wiretaps; you’ve got all these things that are in today’s headlines and they are back then.” n Credit: Walter P. Reuther Library, Wayne State University.
Behind the mobsters’ violence, the flappers’ shimmy and the teetotalers’ moralistic stance is an intriguing, complex era of American history eloquently rendered by directors Ken Burns and Lynn Novick in their newest documentary, “Prohibition.” Mr. Burns aptly describes the film as “firing on all cylinders.” “It has got amazing, complicated characters; it’s a little known period in our history,” Mr. Burns explains during a phone interview. “We just have the superficial images of gangsters and flappers but not much other knowledge. So we wound it back 100 years to see the lead up to it and then really got deep into what Prohibition (was) that went beyond those flappers and those gangsters.” The three-part series, airing from 8pm-10pm on PBS October 2-4, is presented in Burns’ characteristic award-winning fashion with compelling historic photos and footage accompanied by gorgeous music, wonderful narration, numerous well-spoken experts and fabulous voice-overs that resurrect the days’ notable players. The first episode, A Nation of Drunkards, sets the stage with fascinating 19th century background. A concerned Rev. The Great Depression struck the Lyman Beecher, who finds final blow against Prohibition. Here, more and more male parishiomarchers in Detroit bear signs reading, ners destabilizing their families “Beer for Taxation, Jobs for Millions” ca. due to alcohol addiction, writes several sermons on temperance which puts the movement’s wheels in motion. We learn that, in 1830, people over the age of 15 were drinking the equivalent of 88 bottles of whiskey yearly, three times more than the average American in this century; they spent more money on alcohol each year than the total expenditures of the federal government at that time. With those facts, it makes sense that there would be a fermented backlash, heavily pushed by Christian women. The temperance campaign and women’s suffrage would become inextricably linked as Susan B. Anthony formed the first Women’s Temperance Movement and women found a collective cause and voice. Other factors that led to Congress passing the 18th Amendment included: pressure and activism from the Women’s Christian Temperance Movement, the male dominated Anti-Saloon League, passage of the 16th Amendment (giving the federal government the right to tax citizens’ income – previous to that the feds were taxing the alcohol trade which had, at one point, comprised 70% of the government’s income), the passage of some form of prohibition in 17 states and the onset of World War I and its anti-German propaganda. Episode two, A Nation of Scofflaws, covers the union once the 18th Amendment was ratified by 36 states on January 16, 1920. At that time,
Visit the interactive, in-depth companion site at PBS.org/prohibition. Read Zocalo’s complete interview with Ken Burns at TheZMag.com/article-777-an-interview-with-ken-burns.html.
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Film
film listings Cinema La Placita La Placita Village, 110 S. Church Ave. Thursdays at 7:30pm, $3 suggested donation. CinemaLaPlacita.com Thu 6: Detour (1945) Thu 13: His Girl Friday (1940) Thu 20: Psycho (1961) Thu 27: Dracula (1931) The Loft Cinema 3233 E. Speedway Blvd. 7957777 (show times recording), 322-LOFT, LoftCinema.com Times and admissions vary. Dates indicate first date of movie run. Tues 4: The Kingdom of Survival with director M.A. Littler in person, One Hit Wonders! Wed 5: Surrogate Valentine with director Dave Boyle in person, Loft Film Fest Showcase Fri 7: First Friday Shorts, Blue Velvet, Late Night Cult Classics, Tucker & Dale vs Evil Sun 9: One Man, Two Guvnors, National Theatre Live Wed 12: We Were Here, One Hit Wonders! Co-presented by SAAF Thu 13: How To Live Forever, One Hit Wonders! Co-presented by Pima Council on Aging Fri 14: The Last Circus, Love Crime, Harold and Maude Sat 15: The Super Family Sing-A-Long Wed 19: The Reel Rock Film Tour 2011 Fri 21: The Interrupters, Zombie Sun 23: Peeping Tom, Essential Cinema Fri 28: Margin Call Sat 29: The Rocky Horror Halloween Bash Pima County Public Libraries 594-5500, Library.Pima.Gov Sat 1: Movie Marathon for Banned Book Week (12pm5pm, Himmel Park Library) Thu 6: Only God Could Hear Me (2pm, Dusenberry-River Branch Library) Sat 8: Deaf Jam (1:30pm, Woods Memorial Library) Tues 11: Family Movie (3:30pm, Salazar-Ajo Library) Wed 12: Deaf Jam (6pm, Joel
D. Valdez Main Library) Fri 14: Family Movie (5:30pm, Flowing Wells Library) Sat 15: Only God Could Hear Me (2pm, Eckstrom-Columbus Branch Library), Deaf Jam (3:25pm, Miller-Golf Links) Mon 17: Only God Could Hear Me (6pm, Himmel Park Library) Wed 19: Movie Night (6pm, Valencia Small Meeting Room) Sat 22: Read It, Watch It (3pm, Dusenberry-River) Tues 25: Family Movie (3:30pm, Salazar-Ajo Library) Thu 27: Only God Could Hear Me (6pm, Himmel Park Branch Library) Fri 28: Deaf Jam (2pm, Joyner-Green Valley) Sat 29: Only God Could Hear Me (2pm, Murphy-Wilmot)
Tucson Film & Music Festival, TucsonFilmandMusicFestival. com (Times, location and admissions vary. See the website for details.) Thu 6: Barbershop Punk (The Loft, 7:30pm) Fri 7: Better Than Something: Jay Reatard (Rialto Theatre, 7:30pm) Sat 8: Color Me Obsessed: A Film about the Replacements, Narrative Shorts (Q&A with filmmaker), Pleasant People (Q&A with filmmaker), Bloodied But Unbowed, Blood Sweat + Vinyl: DIY In the 21st Century (Q&A with filmmaker) (Century 20 El Con, 3601 E. Broadway Rd.) Sun 9: The Anatomy of Vince Guaraldi (Q&A with filmmaker), Music Video-rama (Q&A with filmmakers), Songs of Colorado with Guru (Q&A with filmmakers), Take Me Home (Q&A with filmmaker), Kumaré (Q&A with filmmaker), Made A Machine by Describing the Landscape, My Caddy Won’t Let Me (Q&A with filmmakers). (Century 20 El Con) Mon 10: Mark Kozelek: On Tour (The Hut)
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Drive-In Theatres Back to the Past? by Herb Stratford Once a major component of the entertainment world and American culture, drive-in theatres accounted for over 4,000 screens in the United States. Today there are fewer than 400 such theatres currently in use, with more shutting down each year. The 2009 closing of Tucson’s final property, the DeAnza Theatre at Alvernon and 22nd Street, marked the end of an era for Tucsonans. Who knows how many first dates, engagements or break-ups occurred under the big screen? Our last remaining drive-in theatre, the multi-screen DeAnza fell victim to deferred maintenance and changing audience patterns. The pre-recession desirability of the largest parcel of undeveloped land in the urban core also made the DeAnza attractive for redevelopment. The closing of the theatre was underscored recently by the closing of the Scottsdale 6 drive-in. This leaves just two functioning properties in all of Arizona, one in Glendale and one in Globe. Currently, the Cactus Drive-In Theatre Foundation - comprised of volunteers - is working on bringing back a permanent drive-in theatre for Tucsonans. The non-profit is named after the original drive-in, which evolved into the DeAnza. Formed in 2009, the group managed to rescue one of the DeAnza’s massive outdoor screens, for future reuse at a new location, prior to the site being bulldozed. The organization plans to reinvent the drive-in experience, with diverse programming, updated culinary options and a mix of activities when not in use for film screenings. While the group searches out both an ideal future location and the funds needed to resurrect an outdoor cinema, they have been staging monthly “pop-up” events to gauge interest, raise funds and rebuild an audience. The most recent event, on September 17, featured a screening of the 2005 film “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory” at the vacant “Thrifty” lot on East Congress Street. Special ramps were built to accommodate cars, and thanks to a wireless transmission of the film’s soundtrack, the theatre patrons could hear the film over Congress Street’s busy traffic. With admission of $10 per car load, or $4 per walk up or bike-in, the events are open to inter-modal patrons as well as the traditional viewers. Funds raised at these events will go towards the future drive-in theatre. A special double feature at the next pop-up event, on October 22, honors Halloween. The 1931 classic “Dracula” starring Bela Lugosi will be followed by “Frankenstein,” with Boris Karloff from the same year, starting at 7pm. It also takes place downtown at the “Thrifty” lot on East Congress Street between Scott and Stone Avenues. For more information on the project visit the Cactus Drive-In Theatre Foundation on Facebook or the group’s website at CactusDriveInTheater.com. n Herb Stratford is the board president of the Cactus Drive in Foundation and was previously the Executive Director of the Fox Tucson Theatre Foundation during its restoration from 1999-2005. He is a regular contributor to Zocalo, covering arts and culture.
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Film
photo courtesy: Tucson Film & Music Festival
From Punk to Jazz
Tucson Film and Music Festival Spans the Gamut by Herb Stratford
The Arizona Premiere screening of “Kumaré” is Oct. 9 at 7:30pm. photo courtesy: Tucson Film & Music Festival
Southwest Premiere of “The Anatomy of Vince Guaraldi” is Oct. 9, 11:30am. photo: Greg Helgeson
Punk rock, Vince Guaraldi and false prophets may seem like odd bedfellows, but they snuggle together cozily this month at the seventh annual Tucson Film and Music Festival (TFMF). Featuring music and film screenings Oct. 6-10, TFMF was born in 2005 out of the release of the Tucson music scene documentary “High and Dry: Where the Desert Meets Rock & Roll.” The ensuing version of the festival from that event has carved out a nice niche nationally for its unique blending of music and film, said festival director Michael Toubassi. TFMF has established a reputation for presenting quality music based films and documentaries, Toubassi elucidated, both “regionally in the Southwest and on the west coast.” Toubassi said the word of mouth from past attendees has led to more submissions, “upwards of 150 a year consistently.” Toubassi believes that Tucson is one of very few communities nationally that combines both a burgeoning music and film scene - due in large part to our homegrown talent pool. With a music documentary headlining the recent Toronto film festival, the genre may, in fact, be currently riding a wave of popularity. With solid, growing attendance each year, TFMF is continuing to expand and this time presents its films in a new venue - one known for more mainstream offerings – the Cinemark El Con 20 theatres at 3601 E. Broadway Blvd. Screenings also take place at Loft Cinema, 3323 E. Speedway Blvd., and Rialto Theatre, 318 E. Congress St. Of particular note in this year’s film offerings are some music documentaries covering a wide range of musical styles and artists. The film “Better than Something: Jay Retard” covers the history of the explosive and talented rock musician who recently died tragically. Also of special note is a documentary on enigmatic group The Replacements entitled “Color Me Obsessed: A Film about The Replacements,” whom many consider one of the last great American rock bands. Filling out the diverse range of screenings is the insightful film “The Anatomy of Vince Guaraldi,” which details the history of this jazz legend (and of Peanuts soundtrack fame) who was about as punk to the world of his hey-days as any punk artist in the 80s and 90s was. Toubassi is excited about the film “Kumare,” a new documentary film and Arizona premiere that details the bizarre true story of a false prophet who decided to see if he could create a following, and see how far he could go with it. The closing night film screening is followed by a Q & A with the filmmaker on Sunday, Oct. 9, 7:30pm at El Con. Toubassi’s long-term hopes for the festival include continuing to grow its reputation as well as increasing narrative film presentations. Another goal is looking to showcase more western films, if they can be found. n Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a great home-grown festival. For more information visit the festival’s website, TucsonFilmAndMusicFestival.com.
“Color Me Obsessed: A Film about the Replacements” screens Oct. 8, 12:30pm.
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Tucson Museum of Art - “Who Shot Rock & Roll: A Photographic History, 1955-Present.”
Behind Rock’s Iconic Shots by Polly Higgins
The Ramones at Eric’s Club, Liverpool, England, May 1977. photo: Ian Dickson/www.late20thcenturyboy.com
You likely know the image: John Lennon, in a New York City sleeveless tee, arms folded, the former Beatle staring through signature round glasses with a mixture of confidence and vulnerability. The question is, do you know who the photographer is? If you don’t, that just gives further justification for photo historian Gail Buckland’s book, “Who Shot Rock & Roll: A Photographic History, 1955 – Present,” and its companion exhibit of the same name. “For this show, it’s about the photographers. It’s not about the musicians,” says Buckland, who initially curated the now-traveling show for New York’s Brooklyn Museum. Of course many of the subjects shot by the 100-plus photogs represented are huge — David Bowie, James Brown, Michael Jackson, Aretha Franklin, Led Zeppelin, Madonna. But few of the photographers have name-brand status. For every Annie Leibovitz and Richard Avedon, Buckland has included dozens of relative unknowns whose images capture, and mark, important moments in the history of rock music. “What I realized is some of the most iconic photographs in the world were taken by men and women who were virtually anonymous. And I said, ‘If I don’t know who took the picture on “The Free Wheelin’ Bob Dylan” or hundreds of other album covers and posters my kids had in their dorm rooms, then who does?’” Though she concedes she’s no expert on rock music, Buckland approached this project like she has her numerous others, including “Reality Recorded: Early Documentary Photography” and “Shots in the Dark: True Crime Pictures.” She looked through books, asked for referrals and, importantly, visited as many of the photographers she could. This allowed her to hand-select not just particular photos but specific prints, as well as to interview the artists for the extensive text that accompanies the images.
Jimi Hendrix and Wilson Pickett, Prelude Club, Atlantic Records release party, Harlem, New York, May 5, 1966. photo by William “PoPsie” Randolph and courtesy of Michael Randolph
The results are as varied, Buckland notes, as the music itself. Much as rock can range from the three-chord club shows of the Ramones to the nearly symphonic spectacles of U2, the photographic formats include Polaroids, gelatin silver prints, contact sheets, composites and more. And Buckland privileges the image above all else. “I wasn’t dazzled by who’s in the picture. I really was looking for great photography. And what I mean by ‘great photography’ is something that deserves to be on a museum wall, something that deserves to be contemplated and carefully looked at, and something that deserves to be part of the history of photography. In other words, photographs that really stand up to scrutiny.” Many of these images have stood up to very personal kinds of scrutiny — a teen staring at a favorite Blondie record, a music fan refusing to toss select issues of Rolling Stone, a concertgoer dressing according to that Marilyn Manson poster on the wall. The sound is important, but so is the vision. “Rock and roll is a bipartite revolution,” Buckland says. “The music alone couldn’t have changed everything. It had to do with the look, the body language, the stance. And that’s what photography conveys.” What Buckland conveys, in addition to great, historic images, are the stories behind the pictures, including the relationships between subjects and photographers. For instance, the shooter behind that John Lennon image, is Bob Gruen, a friend of Lennon and Yoko Ono’s who took pictures both personal and public for the couple. He shot the iconic photo on the rooftop of a penthouse apartment in New York, Buckland writes, with Gruen having bought the t-shirt Lennon dons in Times Square. That image is “universal,” Buckland says.
“Iconic Shots” continued on page 31 October 2011 | THEZMAG.com 21
ETHERTON GALLERY - “ROCKIN’ THE DESERT: PHOTOGRAPHS BY BARON WOLMAN & LYNN GOLDSMITH.”
Time Warp by Dave Califano
Mick Jagger, 1975, © Lynn Goldsmith
Jerry Garcia in Belvedere St studio, San Francisco 1969, © Baron Wolman
In 1967, rock and roll journalism was still in its infancy when a 21-yearold Jann Wenner tapped the talent of 30-year-old photojournalist Baron Wolman to translate the music and its accompanying scene through images for his groundbreaking new publication, Rolling Stone. Armed with his 35mm Nikons, Wolman began shooting the likes of Jimi Hendrix, Johnny Cash, Miles Davis and nearly every major act as Rolling Stone’s first chief photographer. “I met Jann in April of 1967. He outlined his idea for the publication, which eventually became Rolling Stone. He asked me what I thought about his idea; I said it sounded spot on. He then asked me if I would like to be the photographer; I said yes and I agreed to shoot for free, to roll the dice with him on his idea.” Flash forward to 2011: Rolling Stone is now a household name, instantly recognizable around the world, as are many of the photos taken by Wolman, which are documented in his new book, “Every Picture Tells a Story … Baron Wolman, The Rolling Stone Years.” “Baron is having this whole new resurrection because of this book he doing,” explains Terry Etherton, owner and curator of Etherton Gallery, which is currently showing Wolman’s work along with the rock and roll photos of the multi-dimensional photographer, director, producer and lecturer Lynn Goldsmith, who is well known for her photos of Bruce Springsteen — whom she once dated — and the Rolling Stones. “Rockin’ The Desert: Photographs by Baron Wolman & Lynn Goldsmith” is running in conjunction with the Tucson Museum of Art’s upcoming “Who Shot Rock & Roll, a Photographic History, 1955 – Present” exhibit, which is the first of its kind to focus on the photographers rather
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Cover of Rolling Stone Magazine, Issue 40, © Baron Wolman
than the their famous subjects. “I wanted to present a cross section of some of my favorite images as well as images which have become well-known themselves but not necessarily connected with me as the photographer,” says Wolman. “I’ve often heard people say, ‘Wow, I know that photo but I never knew who took it.’” As for why Wolman and Goldsmith? “Part of the reason we decided to [show] both Baron and Lynn is that they’re both well represented in the TMA show and I knew that we could make a show out of just the two of them,” says Etherton. “But I also wanted to have a woman represented, because if you look at rock and roll photography it’s been a male-dominated field and it still is. So it was really an easy choice. Plus, they both worked for the same publication but at different times and they both like each other’s work and that was important to me.” Although Etherton didn’t have to battle with combative egos between the photographers, putting together the show had some difficulties. He explains: “We’re primarily a photo gallery so when something comes in we need to know what it is. Technically, what it physically is. Is it a silver print? A Fuji Crystal Archive? But with rock and roll photographers it’s like, ‘it’s a color photograph.’ Well I can clearly see that, but what kind of color photo is it? So we had to get both Lynn and Baron to sit down and tell us. So, that was fun.” While Wolman might not have been able to identify what every print was, he certainly remembers the stories behind each of his photos. For example, 42 years after the fact, he still recalls a meeting he had with Miles Davis as if it was yesterday.
“Time Warp” continued on page 31
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zocalo magazine - “Tucson shot rock: A pop-up gallery featuring tucson photographers.”
Who Shot Rock & Roll? Tucson Did! by Kelly Lewis
Bob Log III, © Steven Meckler
Tucson Shot Rock & Roll is a pop-up gallery taking space temporarily at 245 E. Congress St. #171, and features rock photos shot by local Tucson photographers. Some of the photogs include: Tim Fuller, who “worked” his way backstage at Woodstock in 1969, captured Jimi Hendrix’s iconic performance. Steven Meckler, in the process of completing a Tucson musician’s photography book, will exhibit photos of local mainstays David Slutes, Bob Log III and Tom Walbank. David Rose worked for Annie Leibovitz at one time, and has a great archive on Bruce Springsteen, who he shot for over 10 years. C. Elliott and Mark Martinez have been prolific documentarians of Tucson concerts at The Fox Tucson Theatre, The Rialto Theatre, and AVA. They don’t miss a show. Jeff Smith has some great shots of Tucson’s east side “hair bands” from back in the day. Bob Lee captured Buddy Holly in the late 50s. And Michael Hyatt showcases his great shots of X from the early 80s. Since we know you’re all dying to find out what these rockers are really like, we thought we’d do some digging to find out. The following photographers also all have images in the exhibit… and some pretty cool stories, to boot. David Sygall: Sygall began shooting Jimmy Hendrix when he was a student in New York City, and Hendrix was a nobody, opening up for The Monkees. “I was wandering around a hotel and I walked into a room with Jimmy Hendrix and this blonde girl, rolling around in his bed. He was so nice, he bought me a hamburger and gave me his boots.” That was the beginning of a long working relationship. Over the years, Sygall shot Hendrix, Jim Morrison, Janis Joplin, Led Zeppelin and many other 60s icons. What were the musicians really like? “Jim Morrison was a really nasty guy,” he said. “He’d get drunk and just turn into this really nasty guy.” Denyse Leventman: Leventman got her start in rock photography as the arts and entertainment editor of her college newspaper. The night that she photographed Paul Stanley of Kiss, Gene Simmons licked her camera lens.
Jimmy Page, 1969 © David Sygall
“The guy next to me looked over and said, ‘you’re not seriously going to wipe that off are you?’” Leventman said. “So, yeah, I was having to wipe saliva off my 380 millimeter lens. It was pretty cool.” Mary Andrews: It wasn’t always rock and roll for Andrews. “I got my start with country musicians and I used to do rock on the side because I really like rock better than country,” Andrews said. “Way back in the old days, you could just go to a concert and carry your camera in and take pictures.” Times have changed, Andrews said, but that hasn’t stopped her. When she photographed Bob Dylan, she shot four-and-a-half rolls of film before his manager came out and threatened her. Eric Kroll: In the early 1970s, Kroll was living in Manhattan and got a call to quickly head out and photograph the Rolling Stones, who were doing a promotion through the city on a flatbed truck. A while later, he accidentally angered a very young Madonna while taking her photo. “My deal was New York,” Kroll said. “I went down to a fundraiser and saw Madonna, and I didn’t know who she was, she had cornrows in her hair, and I asked her to pray and she got pissed off—but she did it, she put her hands together.” Ronn Spencer: When Spencer was 18 he met Andy Warhol. It was the beginning of a career that would eventually land him as Warhol’s so-called assistant for a day. “I brought a bunch of photos that I had taken to Andy and he was going through all the photos that I took of him and he’s saying ‘wow,’ and, ‘oh great’—totally insincere, but he was being nice. All of these people keep sticking microphones in his face and asking him incredibly stupid questions, so he gets really disgusted with the whole thing and he turns to one of them and says ‘Ronn here knows more about me, why don’t you ask him?’” Spencer said. “So then someone starts asking me how long I’ve been his assistant and I said ‘15 years’ and just made up a bunch of stuff.” n Tucson Shot Rock & Roll opens Oct. 8 during Second Saturdays with a public viewing 7pm-11pm and runs until Oct. 29. For more information, visit TucsonShotRock.com.
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sacred machine - “Calexico: a retrospective.” moca - “Raymond Pettibon: The Punk Years, 1978-86.”
Punk’s Not Dead
by Kelly Lewis
by Phoenix Michael
photo: courtesy of Sacred Machine
Calexico Retrospect
Fifty-five photographs, eight pieces of memorabilia, two original works of art, nine oversized photo prints, a collection of hand-written song lists and journals, and one guitar—that’s what it took to properly honor Calexico in a tribute titled, “Calexico: A Retrospective” on display at Sacred Machine, a gallery at 245 E. Congress St. “When we were invited by Robert Knight, Director of Tucson Museum of Art, to participate in ‘Tucson Rocks,’ we thought of Calexico,” said Paula Valencia, co-owner of Sacred Machine via email while touring Europe. “When we proposed the idea to Joey Burns and John Convertino they were excited about the idea. Joey has been really amazing about making sure we had everything we needed for the exhibition and we were thrilled to have them perform at the opening reception. It was a magical evening.” The exhibit will be on display until Oct. 23 and gives Tucsonans a front-row seat to the rise of Calexico and some of their accomplishments, evidenced through photos and set lists from their tours through New Zealand, Australia and Europe. “A total of 75 works are on exhibition,” said Valencia. “There is one wall, which we have dubbed a ‘photo diary’ with behind the scenes band snapshots, which have never before been seen by the public and are really special.” The exhibit also includes a special wall in dedication to Craig Schumacher, a local producer diagnosed with cancer who has worked with Calexico in the past. In a show of support, a silent auction will be held for commemorative photographs and proceeds will go to Schumacher. n For more information on Calexico and the exhibit, visit SacredMachine.com.
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Tucson, as any local barfly will testify, has a thriving musical tradition. From Texano to blues, there’s a band at most watering holes in town most evenings. And in conjunction with this fall’s Tucson Rocks! city wide celebration of the art of rock and roll, the Museum of Contemporary Art Tucson (MOCA) at 265 S. Church Ave. presents “Raymond Pettibon: The Punk Years, 1978-86.” As the artist behind the eye-catching Black Flag “Nervous Breakdown” (1978) and Sonic Youth “Goo” (1990) album covers, Tucson-born Pettibon’s work was known to countless music fans during the late 20th century. Now, following contemporary art exhibitions from New York to Los Angeles and Switzerland to Spain, 150 pieces from his early years as a graphic artist will be shown at MOCA beginning Oct. 22. In the 1980s L.A. punk rock scene, where Pettibon cut his teeth, artistic imagery was as often subtly subversive as it was overtly political. “Art comes after the fact, as a witness to certain things that have happened,” Pettibon has been quoted as saying. “I don’t have any grandiose illusions about changing anything.” Expect the exhibit at MOCA - whose self-described mission is “to inspire new ways of thinking” - to contain unsettling and/or controversial imagery. n “Raymond Pettibon: The Punk Years, 1978-86” runs through Dec. 18. Admission is $8 and MOCA’s free day is the first Sunday of every month; learn more at Moca-Tucson.org. Familiarize yourself with Raymond Pettibon’s art at RayPettibon.com.
U of A Museum of Art - “Good vibrations: The guitar as design, craft & function.”
Art Guitar by Dave Califano
Photo: James B. Greenberg
Fender. Gibson. Martin. Taylor. For much of the last century large companies such as these have dominated the guitar industry, pumping out thousands of models each year. But these large companies are only half of the picture. On the other side are scores of talented individual craftsmen who construct small numbers of high-end guitars in private working shops throughout the world; nine such in Tucson alone. It is these guitar makers/builders – don’t call them luthiers, they don’t like that, as that can apply to any stringed instrument, even a piano – and the guitars they create that the University of Arizona Museum of Art (UAMA ) will display in their upcoming exhibit “Good Vibrations: The Guitar as Design, Craft & Function.” “As an art museum we come at things from a craft and a building perspective,” says Charles Guerin, UAMA executive director and curator of the exhibit. “These are beautiful contemporary built things [that are] very complicated and require enormous skill to build. The builders are really talented and create amazing instruments.” With roughly 70 guitars on display – dating from 1590 to today – the exhibit was culled almost entirely from local guitar makers and collectors. “It’s not a comprehensive survey of every period of guitar building,” explains Guerin, “but we had to work with what was in town.” What was in town was the impressive collection of UA anthropology professor Dr. James Greenberg (for a sneak peak at some of his guitars, visit Zavaletas-Guitarras.com) and nine talented Tucsonans, half who build electric and half who build hollow-body. “These folks range from people who have woodworking backgrounds to those that have engineering backgrounds,” says Guerin. And their methods and materials are as varied as their backgrounds. Photo: James B. Greenberg
José Marin Plazuelo, Granada luthier.
Where one builder uses computer aided design and software to cut out each piece of wood prior to assembly, another uses paper blueprints and saws and rasps. Where one maker uses maple and rosewood another uses spruce and Kevlar. Although the focus of the exhibit is on the craft of making guitars and the people who make custom handmade guitars, attendees will also be able to hear each of the historic instruments being played via a smartphone or iPad with iTunes and the instruments exhibit tag. “It’s part of the ongoing utilization of whatever technology we can find to do the job we want it to do,” explains Guerin. And with Good Vibrations that job is to introduce people to many of the great guitars and guitar makers that aren’t household names. The exhibit runs Oct. 21-Jan. 15, 2012 with an opening reception Oct. 28, 5pm–7pm. University of Arizona Museum of Art, 1031 N. Olive Rd., ArtMuseum.Arizona.edu. Admission: $5; free for students, active military, children. Antonio Raya Pardo, Granada luthier.
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UA poetry center - “celebrity poets”
From Song To The Page by Kelly Lewis
Patti Smith’s written work shows at UA Poetry Center.
If you’ve ever wondered just what Jay-Z’s 99 problems are, the University of Arizona Poetry Center is giving you the chance to find out. The center’s new exhibit, “Celebrity Poets,” will feature the poetry of big-name stars like Dolly Parton, Jay-Z and Henry Rollins, giving insight into who they really are. The exhibit is open to the public and runs from Oct. 10 to Dec. 23. “It’s really interesting, when you think about it, celebrities are supposed to be the people we’d like to be,” said Wendy Burk, senior library supervisor at the UA Poetry Center. “In reading their poetry, we find out who they want to be, who their inner selves are and how the public and private worlds connect.” “The exhibition will pay tribute to the poetry of our popular culture,” said Gail Browne, executive director of the UA Poetry Center in a prepared statement. “Some of the poets represented are lyricists, like Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen, and others are film and television stars who have published their poetry. The exhibit will demonstrate just how delightfully playful and diverse poetry can be.” Other featured celebrities include Ani Difranco, Patti Smith, Tupac Shakur, Billy Corgan, Alicia Keys and Jim Morrison.
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Leonard Cohen’s written work shows at UA Poetry Center.
Many of the books in the collection are rare and hard to find, including Dolly Parton’s “Just the Way I Am.” “In doing the collection and research for this, we made some really wonderful discoveries,” said Sarah Kortemeier, library assistant. “I really enjoy reading Dolly Parton’s book because she has original pieces and parts of her songs, and it’s interesting to see how she transforms from song to the page.”
“We’ll sing us a love song the songbirds would envy a song that the angels would be proud to sing. we’ll say with our hearts what no poet could capture, say with our eyes what no artist could paint.” --Dolly Parton n
UA Poetry Center is located at 1508 E. Helen St., 626-3765, and Poetry. Arizona.Edu.
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“Iconic Shots” continued from page 21 “And it’s not just because it’s John Lennon. It’s not just because it’s the t-shirt. It’s something about the way he looks, it’s something about the way he’s standing that makes people understand something more about John Lennon, about photography and also the importance of this music of rebellion.” Buckland nods to the honesty such photographs convey, an honesty that fails to dominate in the current era of musicians as brands, of pop stars traveling with coteries in strict control of their images. “With this subject now, so much is packaged. An artist is packaged,” she says. But before Britney sported a snake, before Bieber got that fateful haircut, the layers weren’t nearly as thick, if present at all. Sometimes it was just a couple of friends on a rooftop, playing around with a roll of film. n “Who Shot Rock & Roll: A Photographic History, 1955 – Present” shows at Tucson Museum of Art, 140 N. Main Ave., Oct. 22-Jan. 15. Admission: $8, $6 seniors, $3 students. Photographer Lynn Goldsmith and exhibit curator Gail Buckland speak at the UA’s Center for Creative Photography at 1pm and 2 pm, respectively, on Oct. 22; the event is free. Visit TucsonMuseumofArt.org for details.
“Time Warp” continued from page 22 “In 1969, I accompanied Miles Davis from his brownstone on New York’s west side to the famous Gleason’s Gym (boxing) in the Bronx. We rode in his red Ferrari; I asked him to stop along the side of the West Side Highway so I could make some portraits of him with his car. He told me I was out of shape and said we’re going to the gym where he was going to give me a good workout in the ring. In the end it was Miles who worked out; he boxed three times a week and was in phenomenal shape. He explained that he played like he boxed; told me if I listened carefully to his music I could imagine his boxing moves, imagine him in the ring throwing punches.” Whether it’s the first published shot of Jerry Garcia’s four-fingered hand or Bono flashing the peace sign, the photos in Rockin’ The Desert all have their own stories to tell. In a recent CNN interview, Wolman put it best. “You have to remember, we didn’t have MTV. We didn’t have video. We didn’t have YouTube. You had to in one photo capture the whole feeling of a particular concert.” n Rockin’ The Desert: Photographs by Baron Wolman & Lynn Goldsmith runs until Nov. 12 at Etherton Gallery, 135 S. 6th Ave. EthertonGallery.com
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food&Drink
photo: Vikki Dempsey
photo:Kelly Lewis
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happy hour
by V.K. Embee
Mixology
A Family Affair
by Kelly Lewis
At Red Garter Bar & Grill, family comes first. But you don’t have to be blood to be family—Tara Walden, manager, considers her regulars as part of her clan too. “My husband and I run the business for my fatherin-law, who has owned it for over 40 years now,” said Walden, behind the bar at Red Garter, 3143 E. Speedway Blvd. “It sounds cheesy to say, but I feel like we’re all one big happy family here. And that’s not just staff, that’s our regulars too.” Looking around the Red Garter on a slow Tuesday night, it seems most everyone is all smiles, and that’s saying a lot for a neighborhood bar of this size. In addition to an outdoor patio, Red Garter also has a full-service indoor restaurant, a section that houses eight pool tables and several dartboards, and a long wrap-around bar that’s stocked with a wide selection of alcohol. You won’t find aperitif-style cocktails here—just affordable, stiff drinks that keep their customers coming back. “I’ve been coming in here for a little over a year and everyone working here is so awesome,” said Dilisha Patel, a frequent visitor. “Anytime anyone asks me where I want to hang out, it’s always here. If I don’t come here for a week, I go a little crazy.” Part of Red Garter’s appeal may stem from the fact that they are active in the community. The bar makes it a point to give back through frequent fundraisers and community events, recently playing host to a 9/11 fundraiser that raised money for families affected by the tragedies. On October 29 from 12-4 p.m., they will throw a benefit for Casa de Los Niños in which Red Garter gift cards and a custom Jeep JK bumper will be raffled.
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“We like to be involved in any fundraiser or raising money for the community,” Walden said. “It’s a big thing for us.” Walden, a mother of two, keeps pretty busy when she’s not working. On her days off, she volunteers at her children’s schools in Vail, coaches her 10-year-old daughter’s volleyball team, the Panthers, and tries to get outdoors whenever she can. “Camping, quad riding, hiking; I love to be outdoors,” Walden said. “But I’m definitely a people person. The wide variety of characters is what makes the world go ‘round—and we get ‘em all.” On Trends in Mixology: They seem to change monthly, or seasonally. Mojitos were a big trend there for a little bit. Our big drink here is the Stoli Around the World. Favorite Ingredients: I just like a mixture of different alcohols with juices because you can create a pretty tasty concoction.
Stiff Fruit Punch ½ ½ ½ ½
oz. oz. oz. oz.
Vodka Peach Schnapps Southern Comfort Amaretto
Mix together with a splash of cranberry, orange juice and grenadine. Pour over ice and garnish with cherries. n Find out more about Red Garter Bar & Grill at RedGarterTucson.com.
Kudos to Pastiche for launching a prime-time happy hour! Tuesday through Friday from 4:00pm to 6:00pm, a special slate of $5 happy hour appetizers and $5 house drinks offers variety and value to suit any tastes. Try the Sliders, two small but hefty burgers embellished with tangy blue cheese and bacon. The Garlic Pizza is also a standout, with a thin whole-wheat crust and a sauce with a perfect balance of sweet and savory. For an unusual take on a southwestern staple, try the Fried Avocado served in a cocktail glass with chipotle aioli. Pulled Pork Street Tacos are filling and satisfying. Unless you’re the designated driver, dive into a Walrus Love ($5). It’s the Caribbean Sea in a glass – below the aquamarine surface lurks a strong current of gin, vodka, tequila and rum. Dry martini lovers will love the Big Pat ($5). Also available are daily beer specials ($4) and daily red and white wine specials ($3) from the impressive wine list. Don’t forget to visit the gourmet wine shop adjacent to the restaurant. Décor is contemporary with southwestern touches, glass block and adobe punctuated with whimsy. A bejeweled lamp casts a friendly glow near the entrance. Behind the bar, atop blue wine racks curved like surrealistic skyscrapers, a gnome smiles down at the happy patrons. n Pastiche Modern Eatery is located at 3025 N. Campbell Ave. Find out more at PasticheME.com or call 325-3333.
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food&drink
at home Danny’s Veggie Chili by Dan Rylander There’s nothing better than a hearty bowl of chili on a fall evening. My wife and I are incorporating more vegetarian meal options into our diets, a while I’m a confirmed carnivore, this dish knocked my socks off.
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons olive oil 1 large yellow onion 1 green and 1 red bell pepper 1 cup diced celery 3 chopped carrots 1 teaspoon finely minced or crushed garlic 1 can diced tomatoes 2 tomatoes (use up your less than fresh tomatoes) 15 ounce can pinto or kidney beans 1 and 1/2 cups whole corn kernels 6-8 ounces vegetarian chorizo, “soyrizo”
Spices
Tequila Tango
Bartenders compete in a margarita mix-off by Gerald M. Gay Master mixologist Dale DeGroff feels a little simplicity goes a long way when it comes to making margaritas. “Some people forget when they are adding all the complex spices and other ingredients that a simple, really good tequila, Cointreau and lime juice can result in an extraordinary cocktail,” the drink slinger said in a phone interview from his home on Long Island. He should know. Dubbed King Cocktail, DeGroff has become one of the foremost authorities and innovative minds in the field of drink creation, with an emphasis placed on classic recipes and fresh ingredients. He also happens to be one of the judges at the Sixth Annual World Margarita Championship, at Maynards Market and Kitchen, 400 N. Toole Ave., Oct. 27. The three-hour event will feature bartenders from independent restaurants across Tucson, as well as a couple from Mexico, and is part of the larger 2011 Tucson Culinary Festival, taking place Oct. 27-30. “It is a fun, packed event,” said Felipe Garcia, chair of the competition and Vice President of Community Affairs and Mexico Marketing with the Metropolitan Tucson Convention & Visitors Bureau. “The margarita has a rich history surrounding it. It talks about who we are.” DeGroff has whipped up many-a-margarita
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in his day. Once an aspiring actor, the cocktail commander started his career between auditions, at the New York bar & grill, Charley O’s, eventually becoming famed restaurateur Joe Baum’s lead drink guy at the now-defunct Rainbow Room in Rockefeller Center. “In New York, you live in such tiny places,” DeGroff said. “You spend a lot of waking hours outside of that little box, and quite often, that time is spent in your neighborhood saloon.” DeGroff has never been to Tucson, but he has shown the ropes to a number of local mixologists through his traveling training seminar, known as BarSmarts. He plans on sampling some tasty margaritas at the competition and catching up with some of his old students during his three-day visit. “I haven’t had an opportunity to see them on their home turf,” he said. n The Maynards Market and Kitchen patio hosts the competition from 6pm-9pm, Oct. 27. Tickets cost $45 per person and includes margarita and tequila tastings, as well a taco and Sonoran hot dog feast. The event is part of the larger Tucson Culinary Festival, being held at points around town, Oct. 27-30. For more information, visit TucsonCulinaryFestival.com
1 and one half tablespoons chili powder 1 tablespoon oregano 2 and one half teaspoons cumin 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Garnish with chopped cilantro and green onion, substitute sour cream with Greek non-fat yogurt (or skip for a vegan meal) In a large soup pot or kettle heat oil. Sauté onions, peppers, carrots, and celery until vegetables are slightly tender. Stir occasionally. Add garlic and sauté for two or three minutes. Heat soyrizo in small pan for 5 minutes and add with all remaining ingredients except garnishes. Bring to a boil, stir, and let simmer on lowered heat for 25 minutes. For more of a soup add two cups water before simmering. This may also be eaten thick over a pasta or grain. Try brown rice, quinoa or polenta. Delicious! n
events
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“Smaller Classes are never out of fashion.” From left to right: Erin Bradley (Preen), Emilie Marchand (Preen), Matlida Foster, Hadley Kirkland (Voices for Education). All clothing provided by Shop Your Girlfriends Closet. Photo by Tim Fuller.
‘Shopping Frenzy’ Begins for Charity by Kelly Lewis
Ladies, get ready: Shop Your Girlfriend’s Closet, a three-day shopping extravaganza featuring a wide selection of gently used and new clothing takes place Oct. 14-16 at the Bates Mansion, 283 N. Stone Ave. All items are priced within the $5 to $150 range, and proceeds will benefit Voices For Education, a non-profit that works to improve public education in Arizona. Oh, and did we mention you get free champagne and chocolate while you shop? “Eight-hundred women come through this sale in three days,” said Deborah Dale, a consultant who is helping coordinate the event. “It’s like a shopping frenzy, like shopping with ninety of your best girlfriends, but they’re all strangers.” The event will feature hundreds of new and like-new items donated by local women and boutiques including Preen, Avenue, Clique and Sancshoeary. Michelle Monteleone of Sancshoeary, 2905 E. Skyline Dr., Ste. 280, said she donates a wide range of items each year, including high-fashion shoes, hats, jewelry and accessories. “I participate because I think it’s important,” Monteleone said. “Our public education is pretty dismal, and to keep our teachers and our student to teacher ratio down, I think it’s important to be able to staff properly. I have two kids in public school, so, I know just how important it is.” The event begins with a preview reception held on Friday, Oct. 14, featuring a designer purse sale, silent auction, drinks and appetizers. Tickets
for the evening are $50, but you also get first dibs at some of the clothes. Shop Your Girlfriend’s Closet continues on Saturday, Oct. 15, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and costs $20. Sunday the event is free to attend, and discounts abound on whatever is leftover. “It’s really unique clothes, from a broad spectrum of people who donate,” said Dale. “There are ethnic items and two boxes of Dolce and Gabbana. We’ve had pristine Jimmy Choo shoes, cashmere sweaters, you name it.” Lou Anne Kolt, owner of Clique, 1865 E. River Rd., has been participating in the event since it began eight years ago and said she is donating dresses, sweaters and tops and bottoms this year. “Robin Hiller [director of Voices For Education] originally asked me if I had used things to donate from my own closet and I said ‘well, no, but how about things from the store?’” Kolt said. “I love it. I think it’s a great event, and I love the cause of it.” The event raised more than $25,000 for Voices For Education last year and Dale has high hopes this year will be even better. “We have thousands and thousands of items,” Dale said. “Clothing of different sizes, for different age ranges, and some men’s clothing as well. It’s a lot of fun.” n For more information on the event, or to find out how to donate an item, visit VoicesForEducation.org.
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Art like this wooden vase, by Al Moritz, will be on sale at the Lend A Hand event.
Philanthropic Shopping by Gerald M. Gay You can get in some early holiday shopping, support local artists and help the elderly all at once this month at the Lend A Hand Fall Outdoor Arts and Crafts Fair on Oct. 15. The fair is being held in the parking lot of the Mountain Avenue Church of Christ, 2848 N. Mountain Ave., and features more than 30 local artists, from metal workers to jewelry makers. The $35 table rental fee from each participant will go to benefit Lend A Hand, a free senior assistance program geared toward working with Tucson’s 55-and-older community. Lend A Hand started in 2006 with a grant from United Way, and has since grown into a small army of volunteers spanning ten midtown neighborhoods, including Jefferson Park, La Madera and Winterhaven. The group’s mission is to provide for those who can no longer provide for themselves, through services such as transportation, running errands and yard work. “We give comforting support,” said Lend A Hand coordinator Michele Brubaker. “We are trying to help these people stay in their homes longer than they might otherwise.” The fair is the brainchild of Alan Adler, a Lend A Hand volunteer and bowl maker who has seen how popular arts and crafts events are in Tucson. “People love craft shows and artists need outlets in town to sell their wares,” he said. “This helps everybody.” Food will be available for purchase at the fair, as well as live music from four local bands, including Chet Gardiner and Delta Junction. Lend A Hand featured 80 artists at its last fair and will be accepting submissions until the last second this time around, in the hopes of a repeat. Adler said that when you think about the services that Lend A Hand provides, the payoff is well worth it. “These people need the help,” Adler said. “We are giving it to them for free. This is so important, especially in a declining economy.” n Lend A Hand’s Fall Outdoor Arts and Crafts Fair runs from 9am-4pm, Oct. 15 at the Church of Christ, 2848 N. Mountain Ave. Admission is free. Visit LAHSeniorHelp.org to learn more about the organization or call 248-6882.
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museums/Exhibits ARIZONA-SONORA DESERT MUSEUM The 2011 Art Institute Student Art Show and Sale begins Sat, Oct 29 and continues through Jan 13, 2012. Art Institute students display their art and knowledge of the Sonoran Desert in the Baldwin Education Building. See the website for other events. $12 adults, $3 children (6-12), 5 and under free. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, 2021 N. Kinney Rd. 883-2702, DesertMuseum.org
COLOSSAL CAVE MOUNTAIN PARK Enjoy a candlelight tour of Colossal Cave, a haunted hayride and a spooky Halloween carnival as part of Colossal Cave’s Halloween Howl 2011. Oct 22-23; 28-30. 5pm-9pm. $7/person, per event. See the website for other events. Regular hours: Daily, 8am-5pm. $11 adults; $6 children 5-12. 16721 E. Old Spanish Trail, 647-7275, ColossalCave.com
CHILDRENS MUSeuM TUCSON
Join The Children’s Museum for the 10th annual Children’s Social Powwow on Sat, Oct 1 from 11am-5pm, free. See the website for other events. Regularly: $8, adults; $6, seniors & children 2-18. Mon, 9am-8pm Tue-Fri, 9am-5pm; Sat-Sun, 10am-5pm. 200 S. Sixth Ave. 792-9985, ChildrensMuseumTucson.org.
FLANDRAU SCIENCE CENTER
It’s A Gas: The Bright Side of Science opens Oct. 1 and runs through Dec. The exhibit features 12 interactive components, a collection of neon lights, and other displays that showcase new knowledge about the gases in our atmosphere and how they affect our lives. Mon-Fri, 10am-3pm; Thu-Fri, 6pm-9pm; Sat, 10am-9pm; Sun, 1pm-4pm. $7.50, adults, children 4-15, $5, under 4, free. AZ Students with ID, $2. 1601 E. University Blvd. 621-STAR, Flandrau.org
LA PILITA MUSeuM One of a kind t-shirts fill the front patio of the museum as part of a side walk sale to benefit the museum on Sat, Oct 29 from 10am to 3pm. Dead of the Dead presentation and book signing by Stevie Mack and Kitty Williams on Sat, Oct 22 from 1pm-3pm. See the website for other events. Tues-Sat 11am2pm. 420 S. Main. 882-7454, LaPilita.com
TUCSON BOTANICAL GARDENS An exhibit of Day of the Dead-related papier-mâché artwork opens Tues, Oct 18. See the website for other events. $7, adults; $3, children 4-12. Daily, 8:30am-4:30pm (except holidays). 2150 N. Alvernon Way. 326-9686, TucsonBotanical.org
TOHONO CHUL PARK Día de los Muertos runs through Nov 6 in the Main Gallery featuring artworks with the holiday’s central themes of mortality, loss and remembrance. Art Journaling continues through Nov 14 in the Entry Gallery. Daily events: Reptile Ramble, Eco-Station Walks, more. See the website for other events. Daily, 8am-5pm. $7, 13+; $5, 62+ & military; $3 students; $2 children. 7366 N. Paseo del Norte. 742-6455, TohonoChulPark.org
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photo courtesy Tucson Pride, Inc.
Corday & The Cougars perform at Pride in the Desert Oct. 15.
Positive Pride
LGBT Pride events honor Tucson’s HIV/AIDS community by Emily Gindlesparger In 1981, the discovery of AIDS and HIV shed light on a worldwide pandemic that still, three decades later, is surrounded by stigma and misinformation. This year, in honor of the 30 year anniversary of that breakthrough, Tucson Pride brings the HIV/AIDS community to the forefront of its fall events, Pride on Parade and Pride in the Desert, with four Grand Marshals who have worked to educate the public and support those living with HIV and AIDS in Tucson. On Oct. 8, Tucson’s LGBT community comes downtown in full color as Pride on Parade joins 2nd Saturdays Downtown under the banner of “People Representing Individuality, Diversity and Equality.” Leading the parade is: Wendell Hicks, executive director of Southern Arizona AIDS Foundation (SAAF); Dr. Heather Moroso, founder of Positively Beautiful; Scott Blades, executive director of the Tucson Interfaith HIV/AIDS Network (TIHAN), and Jeffrey Scott Brown, creator of the AIDS Ribbon, a 130-foot long ribbon of red fabric signed with memorials to victims of the virus. About his life’s focus on awareness, Brown writes, “The more correct information we have out there about how you can come in contact with the virus and possibly be infected, the less ignorance is out there and we will eventually win and have no new infections—period.” Also in store for October: the 34th annual Pride in the Desert festival brings a day full of shows on multiple stages at Kino Memorial Stadium. Dario headlines with eight supporting musical acts. The festivities will be presided by the AIDS Ribbon and the AIDS Quilt, which organizer Karon Bohlender hopes will “bring awareness that this disease is still here.” n The bright lights of Pride on Parade is Oct. 8, 8pm. The route begins at 6th Avenue and Pennington Street, heads south to Congress Street, then west to Stone Avenue. Pride in the Desert is Saturday, Oct. 15, 11am-8pm at Kino Memorial Stadium, 2500 E. Ajo Way. Tickets: $10 in advance ($11 online), $15 at the door. Visit TucsonPride.org or call 622-3200 for details.
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Undead Attack! by Phoenix Michael In the annals of iconic villainy, zombies reign supreme. From the popular AMC series “The Walking Dead” to “Dead Island” for PS3 and Xbox 360, ambulatory corpses are everywhere. But Tucson Zombie Walk (TZW) participants aren’t just jumping on the zombie bandwagon. They’ve been shuffling, moaning and crying for brains in downtown Tucson for six years. Originally assembled as a 15-person flash mob for a zombie prom night at Club Congress, the ranks of reanimated Sonoran flesh-eaters have topped 1000 in recent outings. “It keeps growing,” says TZW contact Talia Lopez. And by collecting contributions for the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona, TZW has evolved from amusing prank to successful annual fundraiser. Although the event is free, everyone is asked to bring two items of nonperishable food and/or a few bucks to fill donation boxes. With the announcement of 2011’s “Zombies In Spaaaaace!” theme, organizers recommend a “creative over cost” approach to costuming. “Don’t feel you have to spend a lot of money. Less is more,” Lopez advises. “Take every day Joe Average and make him dead. Add a prop or two.” Keeping that in mind, know that coveted prizes will be awarded in Most Original, Best Group, Audience Favorite and other categories. Tucson Zombie Walk begins Saturday, October 22 (time TBA) at Joel D. Valdez Main Branch Library, 101 N. Stone Ave., before lurching and groaning throughout downtown. To get involved with the “insane amount of fun,” as Lopez describes, visit TucsonZombies.com. n
BollyKids
An afternoon of Indian culture by Emily Gindlesparger “Who knows what a child will get inspired by, what experience that unlocks unknown potential,” writes Neelam Sethi, creator of a new children’s event, BollyKids Presents F.A.M.E. (Family Art and Music Experience) happening this month at the Children’s Museum Tucson and the Fox Theater. “In this day and time when we are becoming ‘global citizens’ it is important to share and learn about other cultures. It creates an understanding of things different and leads to tolerance and peace,” Sethi adds. On Sunday, Oct. 23, children can revel in an afternoon of Indian culture at the Children’s Museum, getting henna tattoos, having their names written in Hindi, and sampling Indian food, music, crafts and dance. A children’s performance of Bollywood-style dances starts at the Fox Theater at 2:30pm, followed by “Tomás and the Library Lady” from Childsplay, a theater troupe out of Tempe. “Tomás and the Library Lady” chronicles Tomás Rivera, who as a boy working in the fields with his migrant parents fell in love with his Papa Grande’s stories, and then the library’s books. “It is a wonderful play for children that focuses on the magic of words and the power of reading,” Sethi says of the show. “Children are our future. If they are happy and aware citizens, we can expect greater things. My sincere hope is that this day of fun will transcend the day and leave a lasting impression in the eyes of the children and families who attend.” n BollyKids Presents F.A.M.E. is Sun., Oct. 23 from 12pm-2:30pm at Children’s Museum Tucson, 200 S. 6th Ave. The celebration of Indian culture features live music, crafts, and food. 792-9985, ChildrensMuseumTucson.org. Performances at the Fox Theater, 17 W. Congress St., take place from 2:30pm-4pm. 624-1515, FoxTucsonTheater.org
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October Sat 1 CLUB CRAWL
30 stages of live music, 90 bands in Downtown and 4th Avenue. 8pm-2am. $8/advance, $10 day of. Various venues. ClubCrawl. ning.com
THE BIG PICTURE Members of the Central Tucson Gallery Association celebrate their season art openers for the contemporary art galleries with receptions. Free. CTGATucson.org
urban street fest. Scott Ave Main Stage: Combo Westside, Cheepness, The Mission Creeps. The Fox: The Tucson Symphony Orchestra ($20). Rialto Art & Antiquities Patio: Southwest Circuit Soul Celebration. Free. 6pm-10:30pm. Congress Street, 2ndSaturdaysDowntown.com
GREAT TUCSON BEER FESTIVAL Beer, appetizers and live music. Proceeds benefit Sun Sounds. $40-$80. 6pm. Hi Corbett Field, 3400 E. Camino Campestre. AZBeer.com
FIRST ANNUAL RALLY FOR LITERACY Book exchange, perfor-
ELECTRONICS RECYCLING COLLECTION Tucson Clean and
mances by Stories That Soar, more. 9am-11am. Jacome Plaza, 101 N. Stone Ave. TucsonLiteracyMovement. org.
Beautiful hosts an electronics collection event to recycle any and all broken electronics from 8am to 1pm. See website for costs. El Pueblo Neighborhood Center, 101 W. Irvington Rd. 791-3109, TucsonAz.gov/tcb
Thu 6 - Mon 10 TUCSON FILM AND MUSIC FESTIVAL Showcasing music re-
PRIDE ON PARADE
lated films with a special nod to films and filmmakers with a Southwest connection. See the film listings/website for lineup and ticket information. TucsonFilmandMusicFestival.com
Parade takes place on Congress Street, between 6th Avenue and Stone Avenue. Grand Marshals include Wendell Hicks, Dr. Heather Moroso, Scott Blades and Jeffrey Scott Brown. Free. 8pm. 6223200, TucsonPride.org
Fri 7 - Sat 8
Sun 9
PLAY-IN-A-DAY FESTIVAL
A theatrical event with a half-dozen plays written, cast, rehearsed, and performed - all in less than twenty-four hours. $7/ night, $12 both nights. 7:30pm. Temple of Music and Art, 330 S. Scott Ave. OldPuebloPlaywrights.org
Fri 7- Sun 9 ANNUAL PUMPKIN FIESTA Over 400 unique glass-art pieces up for sale and live glass blowing. 10am-5pm daily. Sonoran Glass Art Academy, 633 W. 18th St. 884-7814, SonoranGlass. org
Sat 8 NATIONAL CHESS DAY
Presented by 9 Queens and Bookmans: free chess lessons, chess arts and crafts, puzzles and prizes. 2pm-4pm. Bookmans, 6230 E. Speedway Blvd. 9Queens.Org
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2nd SATURDAYS Family-friendly
GET MOVING TUCSON Southern Arizona Roadrunner’s 13.1 mile half-marathon run and a 5K familyfriendly run/walk. Registration fees. 6:30 am. 110 N. Church Ave. 3269383, AZRoadrunners.org
Fri 14 - Sun 16 FESTIVAL OF FLIGHT
Raptor programs, live bat encounters and a tequila tasting festival. 8:30am-5pm daily. Arizona Sonora Desert Museum, 2021 N. Kinney Rd. 883-2702, DesertMuseum.org
TUCSON MEET YOURSELF A celebration of cultural foods and traditional arts of the multi-national Arizona-Sonora Region and ethnic communities. New aspects for 2011: Traditions of Health and Wellness, Tucson Move Yourself, Kitchen Stadium, Pima County Meet Yourself and a Lowrider Car Show. Free. Times vary. Downtown. TucsonMeetYourself.org
Sat 15
Sat 22
PRIDE IN THE DESERT Festi-
AT BAT FOR HABITAT Softball
val features Dario, God-des & She, Jimmy Roland, Corday and the Cougars, Whiskey Rodeo, Roll Acosta, Boys R Us with Human Project, Lisa Otey & Diane Van Deurzen, Troupe Shuvani. $15. 10am-8pm. Kino Memorial Stadium, 2500 E. Ajo Way. 622-3200, TucsonPride.org
tournament benefitting Realtors Charitable Foundation. Tailgating, jumping castles and face painting. First game at 8am. Donations suggested. Golf Links Sports Complex, 2400 S. Craycroft. 326-1217, HabitatTucson.org
FEVER
The official pride after party at Club Congress. 9pm. $5. Club Congress, 311 E. Congress St. 622-8848, HotelCongress.com
TAKE A TASTE, TAKE A SEAT TUCsON A benefit auction for La Pilita Museum. Tucson artists create works of art on vintage chairs. 7pm. $10/members; $15/non-members. Armory Park Center, 220 S. 5th Ave. 882-7454, LaPilita.com
ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR Local artists showcasing their creations, family arts activities, solar powered entertainment. Proceeds benefit Lend A Hand Senior Assistance Program. See website for time and location. Free. LAHSeniorHelp.org
Sun 16 AIDSWALK
23nd Anniversary: 5K walk & 10K fun run in remembrance of loves ones lost to HIV/AIDS and in support of services and prevention education for anyone living with, affected by, or at risk for HIV/AIDS. Registration fees. 7am. University of Arizona Mall. 791-WALK, AidsWalkTucson.com
BLUES HERITAGE FESTIVAL Various blues singers and bands. 11am-7pm. $10. Reid Park, 1100 S. Randolph Way. AZBlues.org
Fri 21 PARK AFTER DARK
Celebrate the Sonoran Desert after dark and Day of the Dead. Includes exhibits, art activities, local wildlife experts, more. $8, $5/members, free for children under 12. 5pm-8pm. Tohono Chul Park, 7366 N. Paseo del Norte. 742-6455, TohonoChulPark.org
Fri 21 - Sat 22 BIOBLITZ
National Geographic’s two-day event celebrates the flora and fauna that live in Saguaro National Park. 9am. Saguaro National Park. 733-5100, NPS.Gov/Sagu/bioblitz-2011.htm
TUCSON ZOMBIE WALK
A festival, parade, music, costume contests, more! See website for time. Joel D. Valdez Main Branch Library, 101 N. Stone Ave. TucsonZombies.com
TOOLE AVE STREETSCAPING A day of tree planting, art creations and music to transform the historic warehouse district. 6am-6pm. Toole Avenue between 6th & Stone Avenues. 8376504, DowntownTucson.org, WAMOTucson.org
Sun 23 BOLLYKIDS An afternoon of Indian culture with entertainment, hands on arts, cooking demonstrations, more. Noon at the Children’s Museum, 200 S. 6th Ave. Performances at Fox Theatre, 17 W. Congress St., 2:30pm. 7929985, ChildrensMuseumTucon.org
Thu 27 WORLD MARGARITA CHAMPIONSHIP Local bartenders compete; includes food. 6pm-9pm. $45. Maynards Market, 400 N. Toole Ave. 545-0577, TucsonCulinaryFestival.com
Thu 27-Sun 30 TUCSON CULINARY FESTIVAL Prices, times vary. Loews Ventana Canyon Resort, 7000 N. Resort Dr. TucsonCulinaryFestival.com
Sun 30 COPPER CHEF CHALLENGE & BBQ Current title holder Copper Chef Addam Buzzalini takes on a challenger. 11am-3pm. Loews Ventana Cayon Resort, 7000 N. Resort Dr. 2992020, TucsonCulinaryFestival.com
Ongoing NIGHTFALL 20 Years of Terror: Live shows and haunted adventures. $25, adults; $20 kids 4-11. Wed, Thu, Sun, 6pm-10pm; Fri-Sat, 6pm-midnight. Old Tucson Studios, 201 S. Kinney Rd. 883-0100, NightFallAZ.com
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Community
Loco For Local by Phoenix Michael
photo: Phoenix Michael
Colorfully whimsical metal sculptures adorn many of Samos’ yards and traffic circles.
Where We Live
Food. Water. Shelter. Taken alone, these requirements for basic survival aren’t sufficient to ensure genuine happiness. For many of us there would be little joy in living without music. Stevie Wonder said it best in 1976: “Music is a world within itself, with a language we all understand.” Join the conversation. The Folk Shop, 2525 N. Campbell Ave., carries high quality instruments new, used and vintage. Since 1986 they’ve tracked down and traded in banjos, dulcimers and all manner of other acoustic music-making devices. Need a doumbek or djembe? A ukulele? Zither? Look no further. Owner Paul Blumentritt is always seeking out quirky “musical treasures” to fill his store with. “We’re glad to be here for you,” says ten-year Folk Shop employee James Tanguay. Many working musicians rely on The Folk Shop’s skilled luthiers for repairs too. Doors are open Tuesday-Friday 11am-6pm and Saturday 10:30am-5pm. For more information and links to organizations hosting musical jam sessions held around town, look online at TheFolkShop.com. Across the street at 2550 N. Campbell Ave. is Rainbow Guitars with its 15,000 square feet of (you guessed it) guitars, but also keyboards, drums, basses, amps and sound equipment. Gibson. Fender. Neumann. Here friendly service helps you find the best brands at budget-minded prices, as evidenced by several five-star reviews on Yelp.com attesting to Rainbow salespeople’s expertise and professionalism. Impersonal corporate giant chair store this ain’t. Visit the showroom Tuesday-Friday 10:30am-6pm and Saturday 10:30am-5pm or shop online, with free shipping on most orders over $99, at RainbowGuitars.com.
by Phoenix Michael Samos neighborhood, a quiet cluster of well-maintained residences centrally located between Grant Road, Mountain Avenue, Glenn Street and Campbell Avenue, is a cozy, close-knit section of town. Samos Neighborhood Association describes its community as “creative, eclectic, artistic” and “grassroots.” The urban Southwest never sounded better. Samos’ institution of distinction is Salpointe Catholic High School, 1545 E. Copper St. The school offers students a “holistic education,” including robust college-preparatory courses and impressive fine arts programs. A Fall Jazz Band and String Orchestra Concert will be held in Salpointe’s Corcoran Theatre Tuesday, Oct. 4 at 7 pm and an Autumn Serenade fills Alumni Hall with choral music Wednesday, Oct. 19 at 7 pm. Theater students will surely shine in the fall play, William Gleason’s “Hit and Misdemeanor,” presented at Salpointe Oct. 28-30 and Nov. 3-6 for $10/adults and $7/students and children. The school is also hosting homecoming festivities and alumni reunion celebrations on Fri., Oct. 21. Visit the Lancers at Salpointe.org. BrushFire BBQ Co., 2745 N. Campbell Ave. in Samos, slow cooks meats in their wood smoker from 11am-9pm seven days a week. BrushFire’s precision application of signature house spices will make you a regular and satisfy your cravings with its extensive menu, delivery and catering available; and a second location is coming soon! Sticky ribs, anyone? See BrushFireBBQ.com. Yoga Oasis’ central location also lies within Samos at 2631 N. Campbell Ave., hosting classes from the basics to advanced techniques. For information on the spectacular “Magical Mexico Retreat: Be Hero Now at Haramara!” yoga getaway Oct. 7-14, stop by YogaOasis.com. n Where do you live? Write frontdesk@zocalotucson.com to suggest we tour your neighborhood!
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17th Street Music
Nestled in the back of 17th Street Market’s warehouse structure at 840 E. 17th St. you’ll find 17th Street Music & CDs, which traffics in fine instruments including National Resophonic guitars while housing an astonishing selection of Putumayo and other world music albums. Picking up organic produce and a $79.99 mandolin in one stop? A glorious scenario! A Saturday concert series has also proven itself popular. Music store manager of five years Frank Sanzo provides free beginner guitar lessons Thursdays from 4pm-5pm (ages 6-12) and 5:15pm-6:15pm (ages 13+). “I’m learning more than they are!” claims the patient Sanzo. Mandolin Club meets 4:15pm-5:15pm on Saturdays. Sign up! 17th Street Music & CDs is open Tuesday-Friday 10:30am-7pm and Saturday 10am-6pm. The grand opening of an in-store Tucson Musicians Museum featuring 80 photographs shot by Arizona Blues Hall of Fame member George Howard takes place Nov. 19. Learn more at SeventeenthStreetMarket.com. n
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Fox Theatre Hits a Stride by Jim Lipson When the ornate Fox re-opened for business several years ago, its success seemed assured. And why not? Following a multi-million dollar renovation that included a new state of the art sound system, a breathtaking interior, and fueled by the promise of Rio Nuevo and a revitalized downtown, who wouldn’t bet on the success of this (then 75-year-old) downtown gem? And to be sure, the list of artists gracing this stage has been impressive. Jackson Browne, Stephen Stills, Donovan, Poco, Jim Messina, Dweezil Zappa and most recently Roger McGuinn and Steve Martin are but a few of the stellar headliners the Fox has played host to. For the most part however, these successful shows have been the exceptions and not the rule. Saddled with a huge debt and management issues courtesy the City of Tucson and the “old” Rio Nuevo Board of Directors, the Fox has been unable to sustain even one a well-orchestrated and profitable season of events…until now. When Fox Executive Director Craig Sumberg responds to the question “What’s different?” he is clear and to the point. “Everything” he says. “We’re no longer dependent upon the City, we have a much stronger board, and our finances are such that we can now book acts that a year ago we couldn’t even look at.” He cites September’s sold out Emmylou Harris show as the most recent evidence of this. “Memberships are up and there’s no longer any fear the theatre will close.” Fletcher McCusker, new board president of the Fox Theatre Foundation, enthusiastically concurs. “Thanks to a restructuring of the Foundation’s ($4.5 million) debt, we’re no longer concerned about the Fox going
out of business.” He also cites the current Rio Nuevo Board, recently appointed by the legislature, and which now owns the Fox (and the Rialto), “as incredibly sane.” Both he and Sumberg feel this new air of confidence is translating well in terms of public perception and ticket sales. That, combined with a strong fall schedule has McCusker and Sumberg brimming with optimism that the Fox may finally be getting over the hump. Merrill Lynch Financial Advisor Lori Pascarella agrees, and so much so that she’s willing to put her money where her heart is. As such, she has signed on as a sponsor to this fall’s Don McClean show. “I like to support where I live and I work. I initially thought of doing something with 2nd Saturdays. But Fletcher, (whose Providence Services Corporation is a client), suggested I do something with the Fox and so I’m doing this as a customer appreciation event.” Sumberg and McCusker anticipate more such sponsorships in the future. They also expect the current trend that is allowing the Fox to produce its own shows as opposed to simply renting the space to outside promoters to continue. Although self produced shows require more money up front (artists require a 50 per cent deposit), McCusker understands that “it takes money to make money.” As the “Fox Brand” as Sumberg refers to it, grows stronger, so should the quantity and quality of its offerings. n Visit FoxTucsonTheatre.org to see upcoming shows.
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An Old Pueblo Legend
Big Jim Griffith shares Pimería Alta’s stories with the world by Jamie Manser “Listening moves us closer, it helps us become more whole, more healthy, more holy. Not listening creates fragmentation, and fragmentation is the root of all suffering.” - Margaret J. Wheatley Dr. James S. Griffith, Tucson’s renowned folklorist fondly known as Big Jim, has spent his career listening. “Stories have always fascinated me,” he says with a twinkle in his eyes. “Ever since I can remember, I’ve be interested in folklore, folk arts - long before I could articulate it, stories about the old times, old time customs; I don’t remember a time when this wasn’t very, very exciting stuff.” For over half a century, Dr. Griffith has lived and breathed cultural anthropology. All of his degrees were earned through the University of Arizona. He says he discovered, when switching his major from archeology to anthropology as an undergrad, that “the aspects of cultural anthropology were subsumed under the rubric of folklore. Those were the ones that really interested me, the songs, the stories; not only from so-called primitive cultures but from Western European cultures.” Griffith’s cultural anthropology doctorate also includes a minor in art history because, “(that) stuff has always interested me,” he says simply. “But I’m al-
photo: Jamie Manser
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ways interested in getting through the stuff, to the people who make it and use the stuff.” Griffith’s passion led him to unearthing and subsequently sharing the folkways of our town’s diverse population through Tucson Meet Yourself (TMY). “Around 1974, there was a tremendous amount of beauty being created within small communities in Tucson, ethnic communities, religious communities, occupational communities; (it) wasn’t easily accessible to the greater population of Tucson and my wife (Loma) and I and a couple other people thought it would be fun to make an occasion on which all this stuff was accessible. “It started off pretty small, and is what it is today to a great extent thanks to (TMY Executive Director) Mia Hansen’s energy and organizational abilities.” While Dr. Griffith describes TMY as the “splashiest, biggest thing” he’s been involved with, Griffith’s recent nod from the National Endowment for the Arts ratchets up his lifelong work to the national level. In September, he was recognized by the NEA’s National Heritage Aw a r d / Bess
Lomax Hawes Fellowship. “It’s very exciting and a tremendous honor, I certainly didn’t expect anything like this to happen to me because I’ve been working in a very small puddle.” Big fish in a small pond he may be, but Griffith’s community solidifying efforts are a profound cure for what our country is sorely lacking: unity that goes beyond political divides and delves into who we really are as a nation – diverse individuals who comprise a greater whole. Griffith’s career has focused on sharing stories to bring people together through cultural understanding. Dr. Griffith describes TMY as an educational way to ensure community health. “I don’t mean absence of the common cold, I mean the health of a community as a community getting together with each other and enjoying each other and speaking to each other, not being fragmented, viewing each other as part of a kind of an ‘us’ rather than a large and possibly scary bunchy of ‘thems.’” n Dr. Griffith has conveyed the tales of Pimería Alta in several books and his newest, “A Border Runs Through It,” is set for release in midOctober during TMY. Griffith says the book is culled from his previous KUAT series, Southern Arizona Traditions, covering our area’s customs and legends, along with a chapter on food. See RioNuevo.com for details on the book. Click on ParentsEyes.arizona.edu/azillustrated/index.php to view clips of Southern Arizona Traditions. Visit TucsonMeetYourself.org, running Oct.1416, for this year’s event schedule.
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2ND SATURDAYS DOWNTOWN Congress Street, 2ndSaturdaysDowntown.com
AVA AMPHITHEATER at Casino Del Sol 5655 W. Valencia Rd. 800344-9453, CasinoDelSol.com/ AVA
BLUEFIN
3306 N. 1st Ave. 690-0991, BoondocksLounge.com
3770 E. Sunrise Dr. 615-6100, Janos.com
KINGFISHER 2564 E. Grant Rd. 323-7739, KingFisherTucson.com
LA COCINA @ OLD TOWN ARTISANS 201 N. Court Ave. 623-6024, LaCocinaTucson.com
LUNA BELLA 2970 N. Swan Rd. LunaBellaRestaurant.com
NIMBUS BREWERY
CASA VICENTE
3850 E. 44th St. 745-9175 & 6464 E. Tanque Verde Rd. 733-1111, NimbusBeer.com
375 S. Stone Ave. 884-5253, CasaVicente.com
PLUSH
CHE’S LOUNGE
340 E. 6th St. 798-1298, PlushTucson.com
350 N. 4th Ave. 623-2088, ChesLounge.com
RED ROOM AT GRILL
CLUB CONGRESS
100 E. Congress St. 623-7621, RedRoomTucson.blogspot.com
311 E. Congress St. 622-8848, HotelCongress.com/club
RHYTHM & ROOTS
CLUB CRAWL Downtown & 4th Avenue venues, ClubCrawl.ning.com
198 W. Cushing St. 622-7984, CushingStreet.com
DELECTABLES RESTAURANT & CATERING
RIALTO THEATRE 318 E. Congress St. 740-1000, RialtoTheatre.com
THE ROCK 136 N. Park Ave. RockTucson.com
DOWNTOWN KITCHEN + COCKTAILS
SOLAR CULTURE
17 W. Congress St. 624-1515, FoxTucsonTheatre.org
THE HUT 305 N. 4th Ave. 623-3200, HutTucson.com
Gaelic Storm at Rialto Theatre, Oct 27, 8pm.
SKY BAR 536 N. 4th Ave. 622-4300, SkyBarTucson.com
FOX TUCSON THEATRE
Colbie Caillat performs at the Fox Theater Tues, Oct 17 at 7:30pm.
Plaza Palamino, 2970 N. Swan Rd. 319-9966, RhythmandRoots.org
533 N. 4th Ave. 884-9289, Delectables.com
135 S. 6th Ave. 623-7700, DowntownKitchen.com
The Phenomenauts and Doctor Dinosaur play at Hotel Congress on Sun, Oct 9 from 6:30pm-7pm.
photo: Kevin Gilbert
CUSHING STREET BAR & RESTAURANT
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Mindflow performs at The Rock, 136 N. Park Ave., with UFO on Oct. 4. photo: courtesy of ColbieCaillat.com
BOONDOCKS LOUNGE
J BAR
photo: courtesy of Hotel Congress
7053 N. Oracle Rd. 531-8500, BluefinTucson.com
LIVE_MUSIC photo: josé pedro russo, fotógrafo www.zepedro.com.b
Call or visit websites for live music information.
31 E. Toole Ave. 884-0874, SolarCulture.org
SURLY WENCH PUB 424 N. 4th Ave., 882-0009, SurlyWenchPub.com
VAUDEVILLE 110 E. Congress St. 6223535, MySpace.com/ vaudevilledowntowntucson
Carnivaleros 10 year Anniversary Party, Fri., Oct 21. Rhythm and Roots, Ste. 147 in Plaza Palomino,with bandleader and accordionist Gary Mackender along with Michael P Nordberg on guitars, Marx Loeb on drums and Larry lee Lerma on bass. Includes special guests Catherine Zavala, Mitzi Cowell and Carla Brownlee.
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tunes
A Jubilant Soul by Jamie Manser “The passion of playing music is the essence of my life,” says professional percussionist Richard Noel. The multi-instrumentalist has a long laundry list of accomplishments, but his smile is biggest when talking about spreading happiness through music. “It is so joyful and important to me when I see people responding when I play my music, it definitely propels me,” Noel explains. “I play music from my soul and I think it is transmitted to other people’s lives.” The aeronautical/structural engineer is known around town as the force behind Sticks and Fingers, a percussion ensemble that plays downtown regularly as part of 2nd Saturdays. The Aug. 13 event saw throngs of people surrounding the group, who was hosting a high-energy limbo competition in rhythm to island beats. The crowd loved it. Noel, originally from The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, has percussion seared into his body and spirit. As a child growing up in the Caribbean, he’d wake up to the sounds of drums when the elders were engaging in religious rituals. “I grew up in a real festive culture, everything was a celebration,” says the 46-year-old. “Some rituals involved playing drums for 24 hours. It’s not like that anymore, but that’s the way it was when I was growing up.” He laughs, adding that the “iPod generation took that custom out.” He laughs a lot, with an ardor that is infectious and uplifting. His broad pearly-white smile punctuates a handsome face and contrasts beautifully with his deep-ebony skin. Noel is in fabulous shape, probably due in part to his drumming contributions in the UZO movement classes at The Movement Shala, 435 E. 9th St. When he’s not working at Evergreen Air Center, hosting foster children and raising three daughters with his wife, you can find him running his non-profit Arts for Life Community (mission: to unite and empower the underserved and the greater arts community through live percussion workshops) and serving on the Tucson Meet Yourself board. This year, Noel released “Joy of the Caribbean,” an 11-track CD recorded in his bedroom studio. The mostly one-man project (Noel played 90% of the instruments) is a fantastic dance album that fuses together Caribbean Soca, Bass, American Standards and Latin beats. It is available at 17th Street Market, 830 E. 17th St., iTunes, Amazon and at his live performances. Through his music, Noel says one of his goals is to take “the steel drum, and percussion in general, to where it’s never been before - as a lead instrument. The steel drum is a melodic instrument; it can play melodies and songs, it has notes.” He also aims to make the world a better place. “It’s about spreading the joy wherever we go. I think that’s what is missing in community, politics divide us. That universal language of love through music is something that can bring us back through community events.” n
photo: Jamie Manser
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Richard Noel, featuring Sticks and Fingers, performs at Tucson Meet Yourself on Saturday, Oct. 15, 8:30pm, at the TCC plaza stage. A sneak preview of that show happens during 2nd Saturdays on Oct. 8. Visit RDNoel.com and TucsonMeetYourself.org for details.
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KXCI’s Five
Tucson’s community radio station, 91.3FM, features cuts from the following new albums in October.
Various artists, The Lost Notebooks Of Hank Williams (Columbia) What started as a project for Bob Dylan – recording new songs from discovered old lyrics of Hank Williams – ended up being a group effort, with performances by Dylan, Lucinda Williams, Norah Jones and many others.
Feist, Metals (Interscope)
Arizona Healing by Rafael Otto The shots fired in Tucson on January 8, 2011 still echo through our desert barrio, lingering with our sense of disbelief and astonished awe in the face of such brutality. Ten months later, we are still searching for ways to reclaim community and honor the victims and heroes from that tragic winter morning. It’s no surprise that the arts have a vital role in that process, and the latest release from Ft. Lowell Records is a perfect example of artists rallying to help Tucson heal. “Luz de Vida” (Light of Life) is a compilation featuring 37 tracks assembled by Music Against Violence, a coalition of Tucson writers, recording engineers, and venue operators. “Music is the thread that keeps life going,” says Joey Burns of Calexico, and listening to the songs gives the impression that the very act of recording them was a kind of healing release. “Luz de Vida” represents this forward momentum, this embrace of life and hope for a better future. But it’s more than that. The album is a taste of Tucson, a sample of who we are and how we have started to make peace with the past. Featured artists include Giant Sand, Mariachi Luz de Luna, Seashell Radio, Chango Malo, Calexico, Ozomatli, Tracy Shedd and 30 others, with proceeds directed to the Tucson Together Fund. Like Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, a survivor and a symbol of hope in the face of tragedy, Luz de Vida represents Tucson’s emotional response to the violence, our collective effort to restore community. The last track, a lingering seven-minute tune by Salvador Duran, sums things up nicely. With contemplative lyrics and his timeless, meandering whistle, we are reminded that life continues, despite the scars we carry with us. Music is there to make us whole again. n The album is set for release on Oct. 18 in both vinyl and digital formats. A benefit show for Tucson Together happens Oct. 22 at Rialto Theatre. Complete details at MusicAgainstViolence.org.
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An exciting, exuberant and yet ultimately intimate collection of new songs from one of our favorite Canadians; Rolling Stone has already hailed this album as their favorite for fall.
Indigo Girls, Beauty Queen Sister (IG Recordings) Amy Ray and Emily Saliers are back with their 14th album, continuing their grand tradition of smart songwriting and lush vocals over intricate arrangements, here backed by top Nashville musicians like Viktor Krauss.
Ryan Adams, Ashes & Fire (Capitol) “Adams” appears just a little before “angst” in the dictionary and nobody does heartache, loss and pain quite like Ryan. This new album is produced by the legendary Glyn Johns and might be the most cohesive set of songs in Ryan’s career.
William Shatner, Seeking Major Tom (Cleopatra) Captain Kirk has us in a tractor beam pulling us toward his new album of covers done as a metal album. With Shatner singing over heavy guitars on songs like Thomas Dolby’s “She Blinded Me With Science” and guests including Bootsy Collins and Brian May, this is either going to be the can’t miss or the can’t play album of 2011. n