Eye Street Entertainment / 2-7-13 by Matt Munoz

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, February 7, 2013

Eye Street Editor Jennifer Self | Phone 395-7434 | e-mail jself@bakersfield.com

Index Sylvia Browne .......................................... 20 Art from the heart .................................... 21 Arts Alive .................................................. 22 Scott Cox .................................................. 23 Our Words — Our Books .......................... 23 The Lowdown with Matt Munoz ............ 24 OLPH Mardi Gras .................................... 25 Calendar .............................................. 30-31

“They are the alpha and omega of musical expression.” — Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra conductor John Farrer on Wagner and Verdi

Composers together at last Bicentennial of Verdi and Wagner theme of symphony concert BY SUSAN SCAFFIDI Contributing writer

iuseppi Verdi and Richard Wagner dominated the musical world of 19th century Europe, particularly the opera world. The two composers never met, and they couldn’t have been more different as people or as musicians. Nevertheless, they had one thing in common — they were born in the same year, 1813. Classical music directors the world over having been waiting — impatiently — for 2013 to arrive so they could do the unthinkable: program Verdi’s and Wagner’s music on the same concert program to celebrate both composers’ bicentennial birthdays. “They are the alpha and omega of musical expression,” said Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra conductor John Farrer. The BSO is joining the party, with a program dedicated to both composers’ music Saturday evening at the Rabobank Theater. “There was very vigorous debate among musical people during the 19th century whether Verdi was ‘the one’ or Wagner was ‘the one,’” Farrer said. Each composer was heralded as the exponent of his national art and character. Verdi and Wagner were both associated, at least symbolically, in the unification movements of their respective countries. Verdi, whose operas were considered the ultimate expression of the Italian style, was noted for his deeply emotional romances, expressive orchestration, beautiful melodies and immediately accessible, memorable arias, or solo songs, that soon became part of the popular culture. Wagner sought to create a new artform for German-speaking people, his own amalgamation of music and drama that would help create a new German spirit, even a new mythology for the newly united German-speaking people. His operas were noted for their

SHELBY MACK / THE CALIFORNIAN

Violinists from the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra play at Bright House Networks Amphitheatre in September.

Bakersfield Symphony — Verdi and Wagner Bicentennial When: Lecture 7 p.m.; concert 8 p.m. Saturday Where: Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. Admission: $34 to $50; student tickets, half price

deep psychological component, epic proportions and endless melodies that eradicated the lines between arias, recitatives and ensemble pieces. “In Verdi’s operas, and most operas, once those arias are over, (the music) stops, there is a clear demarcation,” Farrer said. Farrer said Wagner’s approach, to let the music unfold without rest, was radical. “You can imagine the effect that had on the audience the first time they heard it,” Farrer said. “It was just revolutionary.”

The first half of the concert program will be dedicated to Verdi, with excerpts from three of his operas — “La Forza del Destino” (“The Force of Destiny”), “Aida,” and “Luisa Miller.” The second half of the concert, dedicated to Wagner, includes the prelude to “Lohengrin” and excerpts from Wagner’s famed “Ring Cycle” — Wotan’s farewell from “Die Walkure” (“The Valkyries”) and the “Entrance of the Gods into Valhalla” from “Das Rheingold” (“The Rhein Gold”). The performance will feature a number of soloists active in the Los Angeles area. Soprano Teresa Brown will perform the roles of Leonora and Aida; mezzo-soprano Peabody Southwell will perform the roles of Amneris and Fricka. Baritone Roberto Gomez will perform the role of Wotan; tenor Gabrielo Reoyo-Pazos will sing the role of Loge. Sopranos Susan Mohini Kane and Shannon Kauble, and mezzo-soprano Geeta Novotny will sing the roles

AP FILE

Giuseppi Verdi’s operas were considered the ultimate expression of the Italian style.

Richard Wagner sought to create a new artform for Germanspeaking people, his own amalgamation of music and drama that would help create a new German spirit.

of the war maidens Woglinde and Wellgunde and Flosshulde. “The whole point is to celebrate their birthdays, and by putting them on the same program, to let the audiences see how genius expresses itself,” Farrer

said. Jerome Kleinsasser will deliver a lecture about the two composers and the music on the program at 7 p.m. The lecture is free, but seating is limited, so early arrival is recommended.

AP FILE

Thursday, February 7, 2013 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Art of love: Jam sets V-Day mood DJ reflects on his role rock ’n’ roll’s evolution BY MATT MUNOZ Californian staff writer mmunoz@bakersfield.com

rt Laboe has built a career following the hearts of music lovers around the

globe. As the beloved host of one of radio’s longest-running music dedication shows, Laboe’s syndicated “Killer Oldies” — which broadcasts Sunday evenings on Bakersfield station Hot 94.1, KISV-FM — has inspired legions of fans to get their groove on with the sounds of peace, love and silky soul. Today, after more than 50 years in the entertainment business, Laboe continues supplying the soundtrack to the perfect lovers’ holiday through his Valentine’s Super Love Jam series, which makes a return to Rabobank Arena Saturday night. “I enjoy it,” said Laboe, 87, during a phone interview from his office in Los Angeles. “There’s a lot of love going across those stage lights both ways. I don’t let it go to my head and always try to be the same guy I’ve been since the beginning.” A tireless showman, Laboe still oversees his empire of radio and entertainment-oriented ventures, including his record imprint, Original Sound, which specializes in vintage music reissues on vinyl

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ART LABOE

Art Laboe helped popularize the concept of the mix tape after a makeout session with an old love ended when the music did.

and CD. Among the label’s most popular releases are Laboe’s bestselling “Oldies But Goodies” series, featuring many of the hits handpicked from his early years broadcasting live from Scrivener’s Drive-In in Los Angeles. “Before rock ’n’ roll, it was all ballads: Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, Doris Day and those people in the mix. Kids began bringing me songs, mostly rhythm and blues artists like The Dominoes, Jackie Wilson, Ray Charles and Little Walter to play. Then along comes Elvis and Jerry Lee Lewis like a tremendous tidal wave, and there was no stopping it. The kids wanted it, and there I was right in the middle of it all in 1956.”

Laboe recalls many afternoons at Scrivener’s like a crazed sock hop with overstuffed cars, screaming teens and plenty of wild dancing. “It caught on like a forest fire, and there I was riding the surf on top of it, because I was the first one to play all that music out here. Here was this program in the afternoon. Nobody had every heard anything like it. Live with kids laughing, honking their horns, going from car to car talking to them and getting their requests. Some from the establishment, but I didn’t let it get any worse than it was. They thought the music was going to corrupt the youth. Looking at today’s standards, it was pretty clean.” Though the scene has changed, Laboe’s ability to remain timeless owes much to his penchant for keeping up with the needs of his listeners, inspiring, for instance, the introduction of his first music compilation years ago. “I remember being with a girlfriend, trying to be romantic and get somewhere and all of a sudden the music would stop on the old record player. She’d hit me in the ribs with her elbow and say, ‘Go fix the music.’ So I’d have to walk across the room and change the stack of 45s dropping one at a time. Eventually it’s going to run out of music. Then a lightning flashed in my mind, ‘All of these people with these songs on 45, should have them on album.’ “When I left her place, I went

Art Laboe interviews rock ’n’ roller Ricky Nelson at Scrivener’s Drive-in in Los Angeles in 1957.

back to the radio station and dubbed a bunch of songs I liked onto a tape. I thought about getting permission from all these record companies to put them all on one record and pay them for it. It worked, and the rest is history.” Like his favorite mix tape, Laboe has assembled a cross-section of love-song lovin’ artists for Saturday’s show in Bakersfield: Heatwave (“Always and Forever”); GQ (“I Do Love You”); Peaches and Herb (“Reunited”); Bloodstone (“Natural High”); The Originals (“Baby I’m For Real”); Sly, Slick and Wicked (“Confessin’ a Feelin”); Barbara Lewis (“Hello Stranger”); Eddie Holman (“Hey There Lonely Girl”); The Fuzz (“I Love You for All Seasons”); and MC Magic (“Lost in Love”). “Oldies but goodies don’t have to be from the ’50s. We released the first LP compilation in 1959, and those songs were only 5 or 6 years old. You gotta remember that with teenagers a social life begins in junior high school, so songs that are 5 years old to someone that is 18 just seems like

Art Laboe Valentine’s Super Love Jam When: 8 p.m. Saturday Where: Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. Admission: $27.50 to 37.50 plus service charge Information: 852-7777 or ticketmaster.com

a long time ago. It’s the same today. A singer like Akon or Alicia Keys has been making songs for more than 12 years now, but that’s a long time ago to some kids. If you come to our shows, they’re really all ages.” Laboe has plans to publish a book about his life in radio, with chapters filled with recollections about everything from his friendship with Elvis Presley, keeping a watchful eye on a young, girlcrazy Ritchie Valens and more. “There aren’t a lot of people still around that can say they sat around and talked to Elvis. That’s a great thing to be able to do that.”

Pull up a seat and she’ll tell you a story Master practitioner uses oral tradition of W. Africa BY CAMILLE GAVIN Contributing writer

uman history began with the telling of stories. It’s something scholars refer to as oral interpretation — a recounting in words and music of where one’s ancestors came from and what they have done. Master storyteller Charlotte Blake Alston of Philadelphia will demonstrate that tradition as part of the local Harlem and Beyond program Tuesday evening at Beale Memorial Library. In an exchange of emails, Alston explained how she became a professional storyteller, musician and singer after

Family Storytelling Concert When: 6 p.m. Tuesday Where: Beale Memorial Library, 701 Truxtun Ave. Admission: Free Information: 868-0745

devoting nearly 20 years as an educator. “I learned about the West African oral tradition while I was still teaching,” she said. “Storytelling was one of many tools I incorporated to engage children, and to bring history and literature alive.” During that time she became interested in tracing the origins of folktales she read about in children’s literature. “Most were stories translated out of their languages into English by western folk-

lorists or missionaries,” she said. “I became curious to see if I could find earlier recorded versions of those tales and that’s when my journey began.” So in 1988 she made her first trip to Senegal, where she found that storytellers were still performing the ancient tales. “One evening while dining al fresco at a restaurant by the sea in Dakar, a young man sat down on a low cushion and began singing and playing an instrument with a heavenly, harp-like sound,” she said. “It was my introduction to the kora and its historic role in the recounting of history. We were mesmerized. It was then that I began to (do) research and learn more about the tradition of the griot.” In West African countries, a griot (pronounced gree-oh) is a name for a person Please see STORIES / 26

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHARLOTTE BLAKE ALSTON

Master storyteller Charlotte Blake Alston will be part of the local Harlem and Beyond program on Tuesday evening at Beale Memorial Library.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, February 7, 2013

Is a trip to psychic in your future? Casino hosts medium famed for connecting to other side

“I’m getting to the point that I want to be known as a ‘spiritual teacher.’ I don’t know why, but ‘psychic’ sounds as bad as ‘fortune teller.”

Sylvia Browne When: 8 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday Where: Eagle Mountain Casino, 681 S. Tule Road in Porterville Admission: $25 to $35 Information: 559-788-6220 or eaglemtncasino.com

BY MATT MUNOZ Californian staff writer mmunoz@bakersfield.com

he classic image of the headscarfwearing gypsy fortune teller may be popular in Hollywood, but it’s not welcome in the world of Sylvia Browne. Introduced to American homes as a frequent guest on “The Montel Williams Show,” Browne remains one of the most sought-after celebrity mediums. She offers advice on just about everything, including relationships, and delivers personal messages from loved ones who’ve passed on. Though she has legions of fans, skeptics have been known to challenge her publicly — and Browne is not one to back down, either from an argument or request for spiritual services. She’ll allow folks at Eagle Mountain Casino to judge for themselves whether she’s the real thing when she stops for a one-woman show this weekend. “Honest to God, I’ve been in this all my life. I don’t know what to call it,” said Browne, 76, when asked how she prefers to be addressed during a recent phone interview. “I’m getting to the point that I want to be known as a ‘spiritual teacher.’ I don’t know why, but ‘psychic’ sounds as bad as ‘fortune teller.’ We have so many nuts running around that you don’t even wanna tell people. Through my whole life, I’ve tried to clean it up and it hasn’t done a bit of good.” Browne maintains a solid schedule of year-round public appearances and book-

— Sylvia Browne

“When I was around 19 or 20, I remember getting into a crowd of people and just being bombarded with messages: This one over there was getting a divorce, this one over there was having terrible stomach problems, and finally I just had to narrow my light. In other words, I tried to pull my soul light in closer to my body. Because, you know, we’re very vibratory. We’re actually electrical beings. We can chart that on the EEG devices that we’re electrical. But I think that our electricity can be pulled in.” Browne’s foray into the realm of psychic readings began in 1974. Along the way, she developed a rabid group of loyalists, including TV talk show Montel Williams, who featured Browne on his show during “Sylvia Wednesdays.” During her nearly 17 years of appearances on Williams’ show, Browne would take questions from audience members on a variety of topics. There also haven detractors, namely author and skeptic James Randi, who saw Browne as the perfect target for his studies and reports meant to debunk the paranormal. The two would spar regularly on national television. “Everybody has skeptics. You can let that rule your life or deal with them. People are going to love you, or they’re going to hate

signings, while tending to connections made through her website, which attracts millions of visitors a day seeking counseling. “I don’t sleep a lot. I try to answer all my questions, or at least try and get to them within a week. I just got through close to 50 on paper, letter questions, and I’ve done 10 readings over the phone, then a couple of interviews.” Browne (whose real surname is Shoemaker) credits her grandmother, Ada Coil, a noted Kansas City medium, with helping guide her through the earliest paranormal encounters of her youth. “When I knew people that were going to die, I would see their faces around me. Well, that was a horrible thing. Thank God my grandmother was still alive, because when I told her how horrible it was, she said, ‘Then, just ask God to remove that. You’ll know when people are going to die if you want to, but you’re not going to see the physical manifestation.’ That’s what I did, and it went away.” Browne said her gifts continued to develop as she grew into adulthood, as did a deeper understanding of her abilities based on both supernatural and scientific research.

READING C

PHOTO COURTESY OF SYLVIA BROWNE

Celebrity psychic Sylvia Browne appears at Eagle Mountain Casino this weekend.

you. It’s so silly. Everybody has a right to do their own thing. I don’t know why they don’t leave us alone. Of course, they’re all atheists anyway. I don’t give a darn about them. I really don’t.” Browne’s advice to those who think they, too, might have the gift is to not be afraid. “Everybody’s born with a gift. I used to say that all the time. Interviewing small children, it’s unbelievable. But it gets drummed out of them over time. It’s like I always used to say: All of us were born with a cellphone from God, but somehow we dropped it.”

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Thursday, February 7, 2013 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE EMPTY SPACE

The title work of Christina Sweet’s exhibit, “Curiouser and Curiouser,” which has an opening reception at The Empty Space’s gallery Saturday.

Artwork gets inside creators’ minds Women open door to their inspiration at showcases BY STEFANI DIAS Californian assistant lifestyles editor sdias@bakersfield.com

lthough the city is just coming off a particularly strong First Friday, two shows opening this weekend prove that Bakersfield has enough talent to celebrate art more than once a month. On Friday, artist Christine McBride opens her show, “Deliverance,” a moving collection highlighting her battle with breast cancer, at nXCaffe CoffeeClub & ArtHouse, while Christina Sweet revisits her past in “Curiouser and Curiouser,” opening Saturday at The Empty Space Gallery. Although McBride said her collection isn’t entirely focused on her health, she said her journey — marked by a milestone checkup — has greatly influenced her work. “I met with my oncologist and my tests are clean. I’m a true survivor because I'm at the five-year mark. ... (But) you’re always looking behind you. You get the diagnosis, but you always have this monkey on your back.” Even before being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007, McBride suffered a number of maladies, including autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and interstitial cystitis. After being hit by a cyclist while leaving a salon, she went on disability. Undergoing cancer treatments, including a bilateral mastectomy, the artist lived in a “chronic state of pain of stress.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHRISTINE MCBRIDE

“Masectomies” by Christine McBride. Her exhibit, “Deliverance,” opens Friday at the nXcaffe Art House.

But coming out the other side has allowed her to revisit her art, which has been a lifelong passion. “The experience of painting came from a different place (as a youth) than it does now. It’s a cathartic process. ... What is coming out on my canvas is my life story.” That story can be boldly depicted, such Please see ART / 29

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, February 7, 2013

Eye Street Camille Gavin CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST

Need a sugar rush? Try ‘Willa Wonka’ Show veers a bit from Depp, Wilder movies

hen Willy Wonka was lifted from the pages of the popular children’s book “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” he emerged as the title character on a theatrical stage and in movies. On Saturday at Harvey Auditorium, a large cast made up of both adults and children will present Bakersfield Music Theatre’s version of “Willy Wonka.” And director and choreographer Shay Brandon Burke said the BMT production will be different from other productions, particularly in the area of costuming. “Kathi Lowri designed and made the costumes,” Burke said. “We didn't model (the show) after the movies or other productions but tried to create our own designs based on the actors playing the roles.” I asked Burke if Willy Wonka (Justin Thompson) would appear on stilts or as a tall stick figure standing on an actor’s shoulders. But the director was keeping mum about how the eccentric owner of the candy factory would look. “Our Willy Wonka is nothing like Johnny Depp or Gene Wilder,” he said. “I can't say too much since the first sight of him in the second act is a theatrical surprise.” He was willing to talk about the Oompa Loompas, however. These delightfully named round-bodied, small-statured workers from a place called Loompaland are played by children. “We have 43 students from OLPH (Our Lady of Perpetual Help) as the Oompa Loompa chorus and 14 additional children as featured Oompa Loompas,” Burke said. “It’s quite impressive when all 57 came crawling and dancing across the stage.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF JEN BOWLES

“Lost in a Dream” is a work by Jen Bowles, who has an exhibition that opens today at Agora Gallery in New York. PHOTO COURTESY OF PETER BECKMAN

The Oompa-Loompas sing a song about the dangers of watching too much television in “Willy Wonka.”

Another scene he thinks the audience will enjoy is the sight of Grandpa Joe (Randy Jelmini) and Charlie (Ethan Simpson) floating above the stage after drinking a concoction called Fizzy Lifting Drink. This is the only public performance of “Willy Wonka,” though there will be a total of three performances for schoolchildren. Burke explained it was designed as a “Kids Go to Theatre” program. The first such show was on Wednesday, the second is today, and the final one is on Tuesday. BMT-Stars artistic director Bruce Saathoff said children sign up through their schools if they want to see the show. “To my knowledge the students pay nothing to attend,” he said. “The (school) district pays or corporate sponsors or some combination of the two.”

Puppet theater Like many folk tales, “The Fisherman’s Wife” is a story with a moral — namely, it doesn’t pay to be greedy. Or as it might be stated in contemporary times, be careful what you wish for. In this case, it’s about a woman who asks an enchanted fish for several material things, each one more elegant the last, and then begins to ask to be elevated to a higher position in life. It begins when a poor fisherman lands a large fish that asks

Camille Gavin’s “Arts Alive” column appears on Thursday. Write to her via e-mail at gavinarts@aol.com

the man not to let him die because he, the fish, is actually a prince who can grant wishes. The fisherman goes home to his shabby cottage and tells his wife. At first she asks for a better house. When this wish is granted she continues to ask for bigger and better things. Ultimately, she ends up back where she started. Omnipresent Puppet Theatre will present two performances of the tale using its specially designed oversized puppets at Gaslight Melodrama on Saturday. The shows are suitable for preschool age and older.

Playwright classes A series of nine bi-weekly classes for amateur playwrights started on Jan. 25 and continues through April 25 at the Pine Mountain Club in the Lebec-Frazier Park area. It’s still possible to sign up, said Barbara Ladin, publicist for the group. One class has already been held but spaces are available and new attendees can catch up at the meeting on Saturday. Judith Cassis, author of “When Life Knocks You Down — Get Up!” is the leader of the workshops. The author’s instruction will be focused on helping writers understand the dynamics of the 10minute play. It’s also hoped participants will consider entering their completed script in a contest sponsored by the Center of the World Festival, an organization based at Pine Mountain.

“Our actor volunteers will be on hand to read the plays aloud, giving the writer the kind of realworld feedback that really helps the creative process,” Ladin said. “Our sincerest desire is that the writer will not only find this class fun and informative, but that they will take their creation and enter it for consideration into this year’s competition.” For submission guidelines, go to cowfest.org. The workshops are funded by a $1,500 grant from the Arts Council of Kern.

McCracken book signing In a pre-Valentine’s Day event local contemporary artist Aliza McCracken will autograph her latest book, “A Life of Love” on Saturday at Russo’s Books. Like her previous books, the current one features inspirational thoughts along with her colorful drawings. An exhibit of her artwork will also be featured. McCracken said a portion of the sales from her books, artwork and boxed greeting cards will benefit local educational programs.

Jen Bowles exhibits in NYC An exhibition that opens today at Agora Gallery in New York will feature the artwork of Jen Bowles, who majored in art at Cal State Bakersfield and was a featured artist in The Californian’s Eye Gallery art series in 2007. Bowles, now employed as a car rental agent at Jim Burke Ford — but still making art whenever she can — said the gallery contacted her last year after coming across her work while searching the Internet. “They asked me to submit my Please see ARTS / 29

GO & DO ‘Willy Wonka’ When: 2 p.m. Saturday Where: Harvey Auditorium, 1341 G St. Admission: $20; $10 students Information: 325-6100

‘The Fisherman’s Wife’ When: 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday Where: Gaslight Melodrama & Music Hall, 12748 Jomani Drive Admission: $6 Information: 587-3377

Mountain Playwriting Workshops When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday Where: 16331 Askin Drive, Pine Mountain Club Admission: Free Information: 242-1922

‘A Life of Love’ book signing and art exhibit When: 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday Where: Russo’s Books, 9000 Ming Ave. Admission: Free Information: 665-4685

‘Degrees of Abstraction’ When: 6 to 8 p.m. today Where: Agora Gallery, 530 West 25th St., New York, N.Y. Admission: Free Information:212-226-4151

Thursday, February 7, 2013 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street Scott Cox CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST

Styx — yes, Styx! — good lesson for today’s pups I

took my wife to see Styx the other night, which is totally different from saying that I went to see Styx the other night. The truth is, I’ve never been a huge Styx fan, but my wife has been for several decades, and it was her birthday, so off to the Fox we went. We made it to our (excellent) seats about 10 minutes into the opening band’s set. They were a strikingly generic hair band. I couldn’t help thinking that they looked and sounded more like a “Saturday Night Live” skit about a rock band than an actual rock band. Not my cup of tea, but hey, my wife seemed to be having a good birthday. So far so good. Plus, I was fresh off a couple of beverages at the Padre before the show, so I was feeling pretty open-minded. A few minutes after they left the stage came that favorite concert moment: when the band members dramatically take their places in the dark, and everybody braces for the first notes from an epic rock band. “Too Much Time on My Hands.” Woo! Now, I’m not generally given to spontaneous fits of nostalgia, but I was rock-

eted back to 1979 in a heartbeat. For a moment there I could feel my hair growing back. Again, I was there as an observer more than a fan, but if there’s one thing I love, it’s musicianship, and Styx has that in spades. Anybody who can achieve that level of virtuosity can hold my attention almost indefinitely. On the way home, I realized that I really miss album-oriented rock. Kids today have little or no concept of what that means: Entire groups of songs written and performed to be played together. Nowadays, people just download whatever is the big hit of the day. These bands from the album era were better because they had to be. Albums these days are generally just a bunch of filler surrounding the attempted “hit” song. The other thing that left me feeling pretty smug was the talent of the musicians of “my” era. Every generation thinks that the bands they listened to were the best, but in my case, I can back that statement up. There aren’t a whole lot of modern musicians with the chops that I heard the other

night from a bunch of old-timers. These guys have been doing this for a while now, and they still bring a very impressive degree of energy and showmanship to the stage every night. They could easily retire, and live like sultans on the income from their publishing alone, but they’re out there on the road, tearing it up on stages all over the world. I say bravo, Styx. Upon further review, I’m really glad I went. The band was great, the sound crew did a stellar job, which they always seem to do at the Fox. My wife had a great birthday, and I learned to be less snotty about ‘70s prog-rock. Mostly I got a reminder of what real music sounds like. Come to think of it, Styx would’ve made the Super Bowl halftime show infinitely better, but these days we don’t want music; we want strippers backed by lots of bass, dancing and lasers. I didn’t spot anyone under 30 at this show, so maybe the young people are all just unaware. Their loss. But, hey: The next time an actual band comes to town, kidnap them and take them. Who knows, maybe we can bring back album rock. A guy can dream. Now I’m off to see if Pink Floyd is still touring.

Black authors seeing another renaissance BY SUSAN SCAFFIDI Contributing writer

hen author Richard Jeanty began his writing career in 2002, he presaged a modern renaissance of American authors of African descent. “When I first came on, there were very few of us,” Jeanty said. “But then there was this explosion of writers. “Everyone seems to have a story to tell.” Six prominent authors will present their stories Feb. 16 at the Bakersfield Museum of Art in a first-ever event called Our Words — Our Books, sponsored by Russo’s Books and the Kern County Black Jeanty Chamber of Commerce as part of Black History Month. “A lot of times, publishers overlook Bakersfield because of Fresno and of course Los Angeles,” said event coordinator Jason Frost, who works at Russo’s. Frost said he sent out about 20 invitations to authors and was able to land first-time author Kennedee Dove, whose book, “Two Wrongs Don’t Make a Right…It Makes Us Even,” has been gaining a lot of attention. “The other (authors) have been around for a while and they’ve all written a ton of books and have made an impression,” Frost said. Please see HISTORY / 29

Our Words — Our Books Where: Bakersfield Museum of Art, 1930 R St. When: 6 to 9 p.m. Feb. 16 Admission: $10; includes a $10 voucher toward the purchase of any author’s books; available at Russo’s Book and Kern County Black Chamber of Commerce.

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Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Want punk and pop? Yeah, we’ve got that Weekend shows cover both genres

PHOTO COURTESY OF HEY OCEAN

Canadian pop trio Hey Ocean appear Sunday at Jerry’s Pizza. Pictured from left: Dave Vertes, Ashleigh Ball and David Beckingham

playin’, you’re payin.’ It’s the truth. Touring is expensive. We try and stay and busy.” The sound of the Dollyrots, which formed in 2000, is best described at its core as pop punk. Cabezas has become accustomed to hearing the band’s name associated with groups like The Ataris, Simple Plan and New Found Glory, among others. But even as many of those bands have scaled back their careers for fewer shows or just dropped off the planet, The Dollyrots have kept at it, working year-round whether the genre is considered in or out with listeners. “The definition of pop punk changes over the years. What used to be considered pop punk isn’t what it used to be. The Ramones were pop punk. Paramore is not pop punk. You should have some awareness. It has to have some elements of classic rock ’n’ roll,” he said. Signed to Joan Jett’s Blackheart

Records in 2004, the band released two records under the guidance of Jett, who gave them street cred with punk purists. The opportunity also provided Ogden a chance to bond with one of the world’s most iconic female rockers. “Meeting Joan Jett was something that really helped me decide to stay true to who I was,” Ogden said. “I’d like to set a good example for young girls who want to be in a band. Stay true to what you want to do.” After leaving Jett’s label two years ago, the group decided to take a risk by planning their follow-up recording around a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign. They raised more than $33,000, four times their original goal of $7,500. “We were completely shocked by the support we got,” Ogden said. “We know there are people that like our band, but we only

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

Coasters, Drifters & Platters Sunday, March 17th

see pockets of them on tour. I think people are a lot happier putting their money directly towards a musician or someone they support, but, man, were we focused on making a good record. Bands don’t have to rely on record companies anymore, but you have to be a lot more creative now.” Released in September, The Dollyrots’ self-titled CD doesn’t stray far from previous offerings, with the signature chug-chug style and catchy melodies the group is known for. Fans of the Ramones will once again find plenty to eat up. “We learned a lot from Joan Jett when we were on her label,” Cabezas said. “She sticks to what she believes in, what she loves and what she’s good at. She’s about being true to rock ’n’ roll. That’s what we wanna do.” Before leaving to resume loading up their home on wheels, Ogden shared an open invitation for their Friday show Bakersfield. “If they know the music, they know there’s going to be good songs delivered in an off-kiltered,

rock show style. It’s not necessarily perfect, but it’s a good, sweaty rock ’n’ roll show.” Friday’s showtime is 9 p.m. with opening act The Aviators. Admission is $5. All ages admitted. B Ryder’s is located at 7401 White Lane. For more information, call 397-7304.

Hey Ocean at Jerry’s Pizza Guaranteed to bring some much-needed sunshine to Bakersfield is pop trio Hey Ocean, who roll into Jerry’s Pizza on Sunday. Holed up a tiny Eugene, Ore., hotel room at the time of our phone interview, guitarist David Beckingham described their journey south as just another step toward discovering as much of America as they can over the next two months. “People respect you more if you build things up organically,” said Beckingham, sounding optimistic about the band’s promotional tour in support of their latest record, “IS.” “I’m still gauging what the U.S. Please see LOWDOWN / 27

Merle Haggard Saturday, April 13th

Saturday, March 16th

Sunday, March 17th

Saturday, March 16th

Sinbad

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE DOLLYROTS

The Dollyrots appear Friday at B Ryder’s. Pictured above from left: Kelly Ogden and Luis Cabezas.

Saturday, April 13th

Saturday, June 15th

akersfield will play host to a couple of cool winter shows this weekend that offer a glance into two different youthoriented music scenes. First up is Los Angeles pop punkers The Dollyrots, a band which, after years of toiling on the indie tour circuit as the opening, opening band, scored a major coup after their song “Because I’m Awesome” was picked up by Kohl’s for use in a massive back-to-school ad campaign. And that was just the beginning. Before long the band was featured on an episode of “Ugly Betty” and the film “Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2.” Those are just two of many advertising and licensing deals the band has scored over the years, thanks to a willingness to go, go, go, according to guitarist Luis Cabezas. “We’ve done up to 150 shows a year depending on if we have a record out or not, but typically 100,” said Cabezas, speaking from the home of Dollyrots’ bassist and vocalist Kelly Ogden. The two were preparing for their latest trek, which makes an early stop at B Ryder’s on Friday. “We don’t like to take a day off and play mostly six to seven days straight,” Cabezas said. “Our friends in Bowling for Soup told us, ‘If you’re not

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Thursday, February 7, 2013 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Mardis Gras: All the fun, without all the sin Catholic school back with family-oriented tradition BY MIRANDA WHITWORTH Contributing writer

Take a trip to New Orleans without leaving your own backyard as Our Lady of Perpetual Help transforms the Kern County Fairgrounds into a scene from Bourbon Street, with a family-friendly twist. The 38th Annual Mardi Gras Celebration takes place Sunday, a benefit for the OLPH campus and parish facilities. Event chairwoman Deborah Leary is looking forward to the pre-Lenten party that she said brings together campus alumni, current students and parishioners. “Everyone knows that Mardi Gras time is the time to be at the Kern County Fairgrounds. We have attendees that come because they know they will see people that they only see at our celebration.” While Mardi Gras is usually associated with wild behavior and adult-only festivities, Leary said the local celebration is about bringing everyone together. “This is generational. We have people who sit on our committee who went to OLPH when they were children. For me, I went to OLPH, my children went to OLPH and my grandchildren have also attended. This is for the whole family.” Vendor booths, entertainment and plenty of snacks will be on hand, with a special section packed with fun attractions for kids. Face and hair painting, a fishing pond, carnival games and crafts will be open for children while adults can partake in the traditional activities and delicious eats for which the celebration is known. According to Leary, some of the biggest draws are the ones that tickle the taste buds.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Mardi Gras Celebration When: Noon to 6 p.m. Sunday Where: Kern County Fairgrounds Building No. 3, 1142 P St. Admission and parking: Free Steak or chicken dinner: $17; $7 for children; tickets for dinner available at the gate. Information: 323-3108

“The Knight of Columbus will have their cake walk. That’s always a favorite. They have been out there with us since it began, and the cakes are all homemade. Everyone looks forward to that.” If taking a chance on a cake walk is too risky for those seeking sweets, there’s another homemade option: Cream puffs will be offered for sale. “We always have a wonderful group of ladies make them and this year it’ll the OLPH faculty,” Leary said. “The recipe has been passed down for generations and we have people who come to Mardi Gras just to get them. They are wonderful.” A barbecue steak or chicken dinner with beans, salad, roll and dessert will be for sale from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. Tickets will be sold at the door. Proceeds this year are earmarked for the campus and parish facilities, specifically an increase in security for students and the parish grounds. “We have children here from 6 a.m to 6 p.m. with kids as young as preschool all the way to eighth grade,” Leary said. “With all of the recent activities going on around the country, we just want to make sure they are protected.”

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Eye Street

Cajun-zydeco gets Mardi Gras going Roots music aficionado gets ‘hooked’ on delta music BY SUSAN SCAFFIDI Contributing writer

om Rigney and Flambeau are coming to town, just in time for Mardi Gras. The Cajun-zydeco band will perform on Monday evening as part of this year’s Bakersfield Community Concert Association season at the Rabobank Theater. This is a busy time for Flambeau, with back-to-back concert appearances throughout the Mardi Gras season. Rigney and his band — guitarist Danny Caron, pianist Caroline Dahl, drummer Brent Rampone and bassist Steve Parks — are all veteran musicians with considerable performance credits, including stints with the bands of Charles Brown, Queen Ida, Clifton Chenier, Maria Muldaur and many others. And while the musicians make their living playing the music of the Mississippi Delta, they all made their reputations in the Bay Area in the American roots music scene. Rigney, a California native, was already an established fiddle player when he got the Cajun bug and got a call from famed accordionist and bandleader Queen Ida, who was living in the Bay Area. “Ida was a friend of mine,” Rigney said. “She needed a fiddle player for a six-week tour.” “She called on a day when I was between bands.” Rigney said after that tour, he was “hooked” on the music of the Delta. “I would say the rhythmic intensity, the effect it had on the dancers, that really hooked me,” Rigney said. Soon after, he started the first of several bands, and began creating his own version of the music. “I was going to take a lot of ingredients of that and make it my own,” Rigney said. “I’ve always been someone who’s borrowed elements wherever I’ve found them

STORIES: CONTINUED FROM 19

whose job it is to tell about and maintain a people’s history. The kora, one of several instruments Alston plays, has with 21 strings. “My primary instrument is my voice,” she said, adding that any musical instruments she brings to a concert depends upon her mode of travel. “If I fly I generally carry my kora (and) in that instance, I pray a lot,” she said. “Baggage handlers, non-temperature controlled cargo holds and large, delicate, hand-made instruments do not always make for a healthy combination.” Alston has no idea how many stories she has in her repertoire. She doesn’t read from a script either. “In terms of memorization, I know the stories, I have lived with most of them for a long time,” she said. “That means I may

Bakersfield Community Concert Association presents Tom Rigney and Flambeau When: 7:30 p.m. Monday Where: Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. Admission: Available at the concert, $60 for adults; $30 for full-time college students; $20 students through high school. Information: 205-8522 or email communityconcert@yahoo.com

and made them into something of my own.” With Flambeau, Rigney has created what has been called “musical gumbo.” “The music is an eclectic blend of a lot of American roots music styles,” Rigney said. “Zydeco, Cajun, New Orleans music, rhythm and blues.” “You might also hear Western swing, country, boogie-woogie, rock,” Rigney said. Underlying the various styles are the essentials of Cajun and zydeco — dance music in the forms of two-steps, shuffles, waltzes and ballads. “The Cajun music comes out of the Louisiana French Cajun culture of southern Louisiana, and the zydeco comes from the Black Creole and blues music,” Rigney said. “We use elements of both,” Rigney said. “We’re more Cajun than zydeco, but it’s hard to separate the strands.” The group mixes original tunes with their own versions of such classics as “Jambalaya,” “Drivin’ That Thing” and “House of the Rising Sun.” Whatever styles emerge in a performance, Rigney said one thing that’s consistent is the passion in the band’s work. “I think (the audience) is always surprised by the variety and the passionate intensity with which we play,” Rigney said. Pro-rated season tickets are on sale at the door and are good for this and the remaining three concerts in the season.

not necessarily tell them exactly the same way each time. I do have to memorize if I’ve written a story in rhyme and verse.” Harlem and Beyond coordinator Brenda Scobey said hosting Alston’s appearance here is a high honor. She holds two honorary doctorates and received the Circle of Excellence Award from the National Storytelling Association. Alston has given performances in such diverse places as the Kennedy Center, the Smithsonian Institution, the Kimmel Center in her hometown of Philadelphia, the Women of the Word Festival in Cape Town, South Africa, in prisons and detention centers, and a refugee camp in northern Senegal. The event is sponsored by the Bakersfield African American Read-In Committee, Harlem and Beyond Planning Committee, and Kern County Library.

Thursday, February 7, 2013 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street LOWDOWN: CONTINUED FROM 24

music scene is like, because all I know is what it’s like at home.” Also featuring bassist David Vertesi and vocalist Ashleigh Ball, Hey Ocean is big in their native Canada, where Ball also works as a prominent animated voice-over actress. Parents and kiddie cartoon aficionados may be familiar with some of her work in “Care Bears: Oopsy Does It!,” “Barbie: The Princess and the Popstar,” “My Little Pony,” “Friendship is Magic” and “Bratz.” “Ashley flies back and forth all the time. She’ll rejoin us back in San Francisco. What would the kids do without her?” Sweet-toothed and crafted to pop radio perfection, there’s a lot to like about Hey Ocean’s music. They’re nothing like fellow Canadian Justin Bieber, whom Beckingham prefers to keep out of the equation; instead Hey Ocean has more in common with the altrock brilliance of Metric. (And let’s not forget Arcade Fire, whose success in America the group wouldn’t mind following.) “That’s a huge thing to aim for, but there’s so many good bands coming out of Canada right now. We just want to convey things through our music that resonate well with people, because they can see through everything.” One fan who saw potential for the group in the States was Kiss bassist Gene Simmons, who joined scores of music scouts interested in getting a piece of the Canadian music boom. “Gene was looking for a few bands from Canada to work with and asked if we

Performance Chiropractic Houston Jewelers

would put on a show just for him, which sort of speaks of his ego-maniacal ways. We halted our schedules, but the only thing we could do is book an early opening slot with a punk band in a very small club in Vancouver. It was actually pretty funny and even weirder for the punk band when we asked them. Gene showed up, took us to dinner and told us what he liked and didn’t like.” The situation became even more uncomfortable for the band when Simmons put them in the studio to record a demo of Janis Ian’s 1970’s teen drama anthem, “At Seventeen.” “He was obsessed with that song. It’s a beautiful melody but doesn’t really fit us. We’d also found out he’d tried having a male artist record it, which was, again, really weird. While we were recording he said, ‘Dumb it down and stop singing.’ At one point, I think he said, ‘Like a retarded 12-year-old,’ which was really offensive. Ashleigh got really drunk and sung it sloppily, and he was like, ‘Perfect, that’s what I’m looking for. You gotta dumb it down for the people.’” Months after parting ways with Simmons, Beckingham said today they still find themselves questioning if that experience actually happened. “That whole situation was so bizarre, but you shouldn’t expect anything less from Gene Simmons.” Doors open at 6 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $10. Show is all ages. Also appearing are bands Arizonity, Streetside Vinyl and Autumn Breeze. Jerry’s Pizza is located at 1817 Chester Ave. For more information, call 633-1000 or visit loveheyocean.com.

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LAS VEGAS — A newly announced “Star Wars” sequel was on everyone’s mind when J.J. Abrams took the stage Wednesday at a Las Vegas video game conference, but he made only a sideways mention of the film he has been hired to direct. The reference was a throw-away joke from his last franchise reboot. The director played a scene from his 2009 “Star Trek” film to illustrate the importance of embroidering films with subtle details, and freeze-framed on a shot of a familiar “Star Wars” robot peeking from space junk. “So they’re looking at all the debris that’s out there, and curiously, it’s R2D2,” he said, drawing a roar of laughter. Gabe Newell, president of video game developer Valve, shared a stage with Abrams at the Design, Innovate, Communicate, Entertain Summit at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. “So now I have to go back through your movies looking at all the debris to figure out what movie you’re going to direct next?” Newell asked. Abrams has given die-hard fans few clues about his vision for the seventh live-action “Star Wars” film. He was announced as its director in January. The Sin City appearance left fans of The Force hungering for more insight. “I’d love to know who they’ll focus on, what character, how far in the future it will be set, things like that,” said Sadierose Schwartzmiller, 19, a comic-book creator who won her ticket to the event in an art contest. Abrams has made a name for himself as a trusted steward of beloved fantasy universes, directing well-received additions to the “Star Trek” and “Mission: Impossible” franchises. “Star Wars” creator George Lucas opened the door to the latest round of spin-offs when he sold his Lucasfilm empire to The Walt Disney Co. for $4.05 billion last fall. The company is planning three sequels and two peripheral movies focusing on characters. “Episode VII” is tentatively scheduled for release in the summer of 2015. Last month, Abrams told a group of

JAE C. HONG / AP

Director J.J. Abrams, who helped reboot the “Star Trek” franchise, has been picked to direct the next “Star Wars” movie.

reporters that he wanted to make sure the sequel was “something that touches people.” On Wednesday, he did give his audience of nerds and gamers one revelation when he announced his intention to collaborate with Newell — the man behind the hit games “Portal,” “Half-Life” and “Counter-Strike.” “There’s an idea that we had for a game that we’d like to develop,” he said. Fans wanted more information on that, too. “If they would reveal even the genre,” said Kellen Smalley, 32, a gamer. “If they would bring what J.J. does with stories to the ‘Star Wars’ games, it would be very fun.” Abrams’ development company, Bad Robot Interactive, has released apps related to his movies. Newell said his company would like to work with Abrams on a movie adaptation of “Portal” or “Half-Life.”

Quirky, underrated ‘Community’ struggles MARCO DELLA CAVA USA TODAY

One day last fall, a heated debate raged on the Paramount Studios L.A. set of NBC’s “Community” over whether two actors could do a weird robotic dance while handing over a container of stale chip dip. “I think the dip dance really works,” insisted Danny Pudi, who plays nerdy Abed, one of the seven community college study-group pals who anchor this fan-beloved but ratings-challenged sitcom (averaging 4.4 million viewers last season). Pleaded Alison Brie, who plays Annie, “We worked so hard on it.” Director Tristram Shapeero sighed, then relented. At “Action,” Pudi, Brie, Yvette Nicole Brown (who plays Shirley) and Donald Glover (Troy) started gyrating like deranged penguins. Only Chevy Chase (Pierce) stood immobile as cameras rolled. His look: What the heck is going on? What the heck, indeed. On the one hand, this scene represents business

as usual for a show that’s defined by its quirky characters and surreal set pieces. On the other, things couldn’t be more off-kilter for Community. Last spring, creator Dan Harmon was fired after leaking a scathing voicemail from Chase. In October, just as “Community” was due to kick off Season 4, NBC hit a half-year pause button. (The show finally surfaces for the season 8 p.m. tonight) Then in late November, with two of 13 episodes left to shoot for the season, Chase quit. The cast’s optimistic mantra is “six seasons and a movie.” And series star Joel McHale says he’s shooting for “12 seasons and a theme park.” But at this point, a Season 5 would be a small miracle. “It may be ridiculous, but we have faith” the show won’t be canceled, says David Guarascio, who executiveproduces the show with Moses Port (both are veterans of Happy Endings and Just Shoot Me). “But I kind of wish we could just put out all 13

episodes at once, Netflix-style.” He doesn’t rule out trying to keep the show alive if network execs kill it. “It seems the more niche the outlet you have, the more freedom you have to give your rabid fans what they want.” “Community’s” calling card is unabashed strangeness. Where else would characters turn into animation, disappear into a video game or, as tonight, stage a “Hunger Games” battle over a class about ice cream? This season, there’s a Halloweenthemed visit to Pierce’s creepy mansion, a Thanksgiving family feud at Shirley’s house, and a showdown between Jeff (McHale) and his longlost father (guest James Brolin). “We have one foot in old TV and one in a TV world that hasn’t yet been defined,” says Gillian Jacobs, who plays Britta. “Fans create sites about our show, live-blog it, tweet it. We have a young viewership that’s not casual, and that’s a crowd executives and advertisers should want.”

Thursday, February 7, 2013 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street ART: CONTINUED FROM 21

as in the piece “Chemo Bytes,” which juxtaposes the organic (a woman sprouting vines) and inorganic (the connecting tubes of a chemotherapy machine). “It’s a depiction of me from the chest up, and I’m bald, but I have flames coming out of my head. (With chemo), you feel like you’re burning from the inside out.” McBride welcomes strong reactions to her work, positive or negative. “I definitely want it to be an emotional experience with every painting. Whether it is delight or despair, I want to touch them (viewers) in some way.” Her collection of 25 works ranges from 5-by-7 ink and watercolors to some largescale work, which she did more of before being limited by arthritis. Her physical journey shaped many of the pieces depicting the female form. “I just love the body, especially the female body. I think it’s beautiful. Going through this (cancer), having the changes go through my body, my definition of beauty has changed. At 48, I’ve had everything that defines me as a woman surgically removed from my body, but I’ve never felt more like a woman. That feeling of femininity has to do with where you are at spiritually.” The theme of deliverance is one that McBride embraces as she focuses on moving her career forward. “I’ve been cocooning. ... What I’ve gone through has been what the caterpillar goes through to become a butterfly.”

‘Curiouser and Curiouser’ Speaking of caterpillars, Christina Sweet brings one to life along with a menagerie straight out of Wonderland for her show opening Saturday at the newly renovated Empty Space Gallery. A series of nine paintings, “Curiouser and Curiouser” explores the characters from Lewis Carroll’s “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.” Sweet connected with the book as a teenager when she lived in Roundup, Mont., for a summer.

HISTORY: CONTINUED FROM 23

In addition to Jeanty and Dove, the event includes Christian fiction writer Victoria Christopher Murray; inspirational writer ReShonda Tate Billingsley; talk show host and novelist Pat Tucker; and novelist Lolita Files. Frost said he chose to have the threehour event at the museum to take advantage of the large space. “We want to give people room to walk around, for the authors to meet people and answer questions,” Frost said. The event coincides with current exhibits from artists of African descent, including “Embracing Diverse Voices: 80 years of African-American Art,” and “You, Me, Them: Mequitta Ahuja and Robert Pruitt.” Black Chamber of Commerce spokeswoman Carol Holley said she is excited that so many authors are coming to Bakersfield. “We don’t have a lot of variety as far as black authors, so this is putting a face to a lot of authors,” she said. “We’re hoping more people will find books (they like) and read.” Jeanty noted the explosion in the number of black authors has nearly “saturated” the book market.

ARTS: CONTINUED FROM 24

‘Deliverance’

work to the gallery for a curatorial review and possible show,” she said. “After submitting several paintings, I was accepted.” In a press release describing her work, the gallery said: “Bowles drops and threads her paint like (Jackson) Pollock, but her end product is something completely different: unified, intimately cropped, and thoughtful rather than active.” Bowles has three pieces in the exhibit but won’t be at this evening’s party to greet visitors. “I regret that I won't be able to attend the opening in New York City,” she said, “but I will be celebrating from afar.” The show will be up at Agora Gallery, which is in the Chelsea district of Manhattan, through Feb. 27.

When: 7 p.m. Friday Where: nXcaffe CoffeeClub & ArtHouse, 2995 N. Baker St. Information: 303-4601 or 301-1362

‘Curiouser and Curiouser’ When: 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday Where: The Empty Space Gallery, 706 Oak St. Information: 327-PLAY

“I had a lot of time to myself away from all I was used to here growing up in Bakersfield. It was a whole new world. Roundup had a population of approximately 1,000 people at the time. It was as if my normal world (here in Bakersfield) was turned upside down. Not in a bad way, but just totally different.” Sweet plays with her past and her present by introducing some familiar faces to the classic characters. “I used my likeness for the Queen of Hearts because of my serious and sometimes volatile side. (Gallery curator and friend) Jesus (Fidel) for the Mad Hatter because of his witty and spontaneous nature. Emily, my 10-year-old daughter, as Alice because she is my most curious child. And, yes, Charlie, my cat, as the Cheshire cat.” Fidel said he was touched by his inclusion as the Mad Hatter, noting that, as a server, “He even looks like me. He’s getting plates thrown at him.” Sweet’s favorite in the show is the titular piece, depicting her daughter as the heroine: “It nails my daughter, Emily’s, expression. It tells a private personal story of mine. As I painted this piece, I learned a lot about myself, my role as a mother and I found a few deep scars as well as pleasant memories tucked far within me.” The artist was excited to have the first show in the remodeled gallery, with a new textured paint job, crown molding and

“But it’s a good thing, because black people are reading more, they’re reading stories they can related to,”said Jeanty, a “positive fiction” writer, who brings a different perspective from the street culture that often stereotypes black art. “I come from a middle-class family; my experience was different,” Jeanty said. Still, his background didn’t spare him from hardship, though it did make him determined not to be conquered by it. “I pretty much grew up on my own from the time I was 14,” said the writer, who found himself starting to “live the life” on the streets. “For me the choice was harder for me to be on the street than to stay in school,” Jeanty said. He finished high school, then college, and finally graduate school. After some time as a high school teacher, Jeanty started writing professionally. “I wrote a short story in graduate school; my professor encouraged me to write,” said Jeanty, noting that his personal success has led to the positive perspective noted in his works. “I always feel if someone’s going to read a book they should get something out of it,” Jeanty said.

After-school theater PHOTO COURTESY OF THE EMPTY SPACE

“Mad For You” by Christina Sweet, part of her exhibit,”Curiouser and Curiouser,” which has an opening reception at The Empty Space’s gallery Saturday.

track lights. “The Empty Space looks amazing. The crew all worked so hard on revamping the space. I’m honored to be the first solo show in the newly remodeled space. I hope this will be the first of many successful shows.” The reception will embrace the theme with tea party treats, from the beverage to cucumber sandwiches and tea cakes, Fidel said.

Tonicism, a theater workshop for children, will begin after-school classes next week, which will run every Tuesday and Thursday through April 18 (with the exclusion of spring break week, March 2529). Cost is $275, and the program is looking for benefactors to supply scholarships. The students will take on the musical “Disney's Little Mermaid Jr.” The Tonicism website said the program is geared to children ages 5 to 18 and suitable for both first-timers and veterans. The workshop meets from 3:45 to 5:45 p.m. beginning Tuesday. Performances are May 3, 4 and 5. For more, go to tonicism.com or call 861-1314.

Sunday, February 10, 2013 Kern County Fairgrounds Bldg. 3

FREE ADMISSION & FREE PARKING A Day of Fun for the Entire Family 12:00-6:00pm Games, Booths, Entertainment, Food, Snacks

Harris Ranch NY Steak or Chicken Dinner served 2:30-5:30pm BBQ Tickets: $17.00 - Available at the Door

For more information: 323-3108

327-7741 • 872-1543

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, February 7, 2013

Eye Street Go & Do Today “The Tuskegee Airmen: They Fought Two Wars,” documentary about the Tuskegee Airmen who battled prejudice at home in America while fighting the Axis powers in Europe and North Africa during World War II, 2 p.m., Beale Memorial Library, 701 Truxtun Ave. 868-0770; and 6 p.m., South High School, 1101 Planz Road. Free. “Pay less to send your kid to a great college,” workshop, 6 to 7:30 p.m., United Way of Kern County, 5405 Stockdale Highway, Suite 200. Free. FamilyCollegeFunding.com. South Valley Sound Chorus Acapella Practice Night, 7 p.m., Central Baptist Church, 203 South H St. southvalleysound.org or 3466190. Bingo, warm-ups 5 p.m., early birds at 6 p.m., regular games at 6:30 p.m., Volunteer Center of Kern County, 2801 F St. From $20 buy-in to “the works.” 395-9787.

Friday Condors vs. Las Vegas, Cirque du Condorstown: with high-flying aerialist, contortionist, stilt walkers and more at the Condorstown Circus, 7 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $8 to $30. Tickets: Rabobank box office, bakersfieldcondors.com or 324-7825. Electronic waste recycling event, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday, CSUB, in back of Hardt Baseball Field, near Camino Media and Southwest Road. Free. 6542581 or 654-6320. FLICS International Cinema Society, presents “Sidewalls,” 7:30 p.m., Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $5. flics.org or 428-0354. Intocable, 8 p.m., Eagle Mountain Casino, 681 South Tule Reservation Road, Porterville. $25; $35 reserved. eaglemtncasino.com or 559-788-6220. KHSD third annual High School 18-Hour Film Project, students have 18 hours to plan, write, produce and edit a short movie for cash and prizes, Friday and Saturday, East Bakersfield High School, 2200 Quincy Ave. Visit 18hfp.com, email Bryce_Hatch@khsd.k12.ca .us or againes@khsd.k12.ca.us.

Saturday “A Life of Love” Valentine’s book signing, and art exhibit with artist and author Aliza McCracken, 1 to 3 p.m., Russo’s, 9000 Ming Ave. Portion of proceeds benefits local educational programs. 665-4686. “Murder at the Museum,” appetizers, dinner, 6:30 to 9 p.m., Buena Vista Museum of Natural History, 2018 Chester Ave. $65; $50 museum members. 324-6350. Animal Rescue Adoption Event & Bingo Fundraiser, hosted by A SafeFurr Place Animal Rescue, prizes, 2 to 5 p.m., Curtis Electrical Construction, Inc., 3310 Arrow St. $25. 399-9026. Art Laboe Valentine’s Super

‘CALIFORNIAN RADIO’ Join the Eye Street crew — Jennifer Self, Stefani Dias and Matt Munoz — on “Californian Radio” this morning. They’ll chat about all the great things to see and do in these part over the next week. They’ll also give away three books: “Stupid Ancient History” by Leland Gregory; “The SevenLove Jam, 7:30 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $36.80 to $48.50. ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000. Bakersfield Art Association Meeting, guest artist Diana Campbell-Rice, 9 a.m., Bakersfield Art Association Art Center, 1817 Eye St. Free. 869-2320. Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra, presents “Verdi & Wagner: 200th Birthday Celebration,” 8 p.m., Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $34 to $50; full-time students half price. bakersfieldsymphony.org or 323-7928. Celebrity Sports Dinner, featuring Bill Madlock, with raffles and sports memorabilia auction, 6 p.m., Cerro Coso Community College, Gymnasium, 3000 College Heights Blvd., Ridgecrest. $20; $10, 12 and under. 760-384-6384. CSUB Men’s Basketball, vs. Cal State Marcos, 7 p.m., CSUB, Icardo Center, 9001 Stockdale Highway. $5-$50. gorunners.com or 654BLUE. CSUB PEAK Club Valentine’s Run/Walk 5k & 10k, awards, raffle prizes, registration 7 to 8:30 a.m., 9 a.m., CSUB, 9001 Stockdale Highway. $25. active.com, valentinesrun.com, or 654-6084. Free Home Improvement Workshops, “Interior Paint,” 10 a.m. Saturday and “Install Tile — Wall & Floor,” 1 to 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Home Depot locations. homedepot.com or call 800-430-3376. Friendship Lunch, hosted by Camp KEEP Foundation; opportunity baskets, presentation by the KEEP Foundation members, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Hodel’s Country Dining, 5917 Knudsen Drive. $25. campkeep.org. Mayor’s Freeway Cleanup, meets prior to 9 a.m., Park & Ride lot on Stockdale Highway, west of Oak Street. Group will travel by bus/van to various cleanup locations. 326-3770. Pet adoptions, cats from The Cat People, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Petco, 8220 Rosedale Highway. $65 includes spay/neuter, vaccines and leukemia testing. 327-4706; pets from the Shafter Animal Shelter; 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., PetSmart, 4100 Ming Ave. $75, includes spay /neuter and vaccines. 746-2140. Relay for Life Valentine’s Bake Sale, hosted by Team G.E.E.K., noon to 5 p.m., Otto’s Games and More, 7701 White Lane, Suite A1. Free. Proceeds benefit American Cancer Society — Relay for Life.

teen Solutions: Bold Ideas for Our American Future” by Ralph Nader; and “The Naked Constitution: What the Founders Said and Why It Still Matters” by Adam Freedman. Listen for your cue and then dial 842-KERN. The show airs from 9 to 10 a.m. on KERN-AM, 1180. Sixth annual Valentine’s Wine & Chocolate Walk, with eight wine tastings and chocolates, 6 to 9 p.m., in downtown Tehachapi. $25 advance; $30 day of event. Tickets at The Apple Shed Restaurant or via PayPal. 822-6519. Sylvia Browne, 8 p.m., Eagle Mountain Casino, 681 S. Tule Reservation Road, Porterville. $25; $35 reserved. 559-788-6220 or eaglemtncasino.com. The Living History Exhibit, reenactments from African American history, 6 p.m., Bakersfield Senior Center, 530 Fourth St. Free. Trollbead Valentine Trunk Show, 10 a.m., Beladagio, 9500 Brimhall Road, Suite 705. Free. 829-2288. Valentine’s Day Dance, hosted by The Black Hole Bakersfield Chapter; DJ Raully D in the Mix, raffle, 8 p.m. Saturday to 1 a.m. Sunday, Iron Horse Saloon, 1821 S. Chester Ave. $5. 706-9294 or 7541824. Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10859, Rosedale & Ladies Auxiliary, 9:30 a.m., Norris Road Veterans Hall, 400 Norris Road. 5885865. Yokuts Park Fun Run, 7 a.m., Yokuts Park, Empire Drive off Truxtun Avenue. Free. bakersfieldtrackclub.com or 203-4196.

Sunday Bakersfield Friends of Wine, presents wines from Rodney Strong Winery, food from Steak & Grape, 4:30 p.m., Steak & Grape, 4420 Coffee Road, Suite A. $80. 871-6463 or 871-6830. Kern Audubon Society Field Trip, to Col. Allensworth State Historic Park and Pixley Wildlife Refuge, with ranger Bill Moffit, meet at 1:30 p.m., at Rosedale Costco parking lot, near gas station. Bring sack lunch, water, binoculars, snacks. kernaudubon society.org or 805-0232. OLPH’s Mardi Gras Fundraiser, games, entertainment, food, noon to 6 p.m., Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S P St., Building #3. Barbecue steak or chicken dinner will be served from 2:30 to 5 p.m., $17; $7 children 10 and under. 3233108 or 872-1543.

THEATER “9 to 5” the Musical, 7:30 p.m. today through Saturday, Stars Dinner Theatre, 1931 Chester Ave. $52-$57, $37 for students; show only: $37, $22 for students. 325-

6100. “Lord of the Flies ... & More Tales of High School,” 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Golden Valley High School, 801 Hosking Ave. $5; $4 students with ID. 827-0800. “Spring Awakening” A New Musical, 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. $15; $10 students/seniors. 327-PLAY. “The Fisherman’s Wife,” presented by the Omnipresent Puppet Theater; 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday, Gaslight Melodrama Theatre & Music Hall, 12748 Jomani Drive. $6. 587-3377. “The Good, The Bad & The Funny,” 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday, Gaslight Melodrama Theatre & Music Hall, 12748 Jomani Drive. $12 to $23. 587-3377. “Willy Wonka,” 2 p.m. Saturday, Bakersfield High School, in Harvey Auditorium, 1241 G St. $20 adults; $10 children 12 & under. 325-6100. Improv Comedy Show, with Center For Improv Advancement, 8 p.m. Fridays, JC’s Place, 1901 Chester Ave. $5. 322-8209. Major League Improv, improvisational comedy show, appropriate for families, 6 p.m. Saturdays, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. $10. 327-PLAY.

ART “Deliverance,” opening reception, for Christine McBride, 7 p.m. Friday, nXcaffe CoffeeClub & ArtHouse, 2995 N. Baker St. 3034601 or 301-1362. Daddy ’n’ Daughter Date Night, paint a Valentine’s gift for Mom or paint something for each other, 6 p.m. Friday, Color Me Mine at The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave. $15 plus cost of pottery. bakersfield.colormemine.com or 664-7366. “Curiouser and Curiouser,” artist reception, for Christina Sweet, 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. Free. 327-PLAY. Art Classes, in drawing, watercolor, oils, color theory, for beginners and advanced, Bakersfield Art Association Art Center, 1817 Eye St. 869-2320. Art for Healing program, classes that alleviate stress, resulting from illness, or grief. Classes are free but some suggest a donation and are held at Mercy Hospital, Truxtun Campus, Truxtun and A St. mercybakersfield.org/art or 6325357. Exhibits on display, “Embracing Diverse Voices: 80 years of African American Art,” “You, Me, Them,” and “Texture of Place,” now through March 10, Bakersfield Museum of Art, 1930 R St. bmoa.org or 323-7219. Patti Doolittle, featured artist for February, Dagny’s Coffee Co., 1600 20th St. 634-0806. Stained Glass Classes, six-week class, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays; 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Thursdays,

Juliana’s Art Studio & Gallery, 501 18th St. 327-7507. The Art Shop Club, a quiet place to paint, 9 a.m. to noon each Thursday, Friday and Saturday, The Art Shop, 1221 20th St. All mediums. New members and guests welcome. facebook.com/ pages/art-shop-club or 322-0544, 832-8845. Youth Art Contest, for all Kern County students, ages 5 to 18, one entry per student. Entries must be filled out and emailed to Schillingartstudio@sbcglobal.net by Feb. 15.

MUSIC Acoustic Fiddlers Crossing, 206 E. F St., Tehachapi, 823-9994; Eidolon, 3 p.m. Sunday. $20.

Alternative Elements Venue, 3401 Chester Ave., 215-9407; The Orwells, 7 p.m. Wednesday. $10. timgardeapresents.com. All ages.

Blues Kern River Blues Society Jam, 2 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Trout’s, 805 N. Chester Ave. 872-7517. Pyrenees Cafe, 601 Sumner, 3230053; English Revolver, 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday. The Prime Cut, 9500 Brimhall Road, 831-1413; Freebo and Friends, 7 to 10 p.m. Wednesday.

Classic rock Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; Lost Vinyl, 9 p.m. Friday; Really Big Midgetz, 9 p.m. Saturday. The Lone Oak, 10612 Rosedale Highway, 589-0412; Mystic Red, 9 p.m. Friday. The Prime Cut, 9500 Brimhall Road, 831-1413; Juxeboxx, 9:30 p.m. Saturday, $5, 21 and over; The Aviators, 7:30 p.m. Tuesday.

Comedy Elevation Lounge, 818 Real Road, 325-6864; Improv Tuesday, with DJ afterparty, 9 p.m. Tuesdays.

Country Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd., 3287560; Monty Bryom & the Buckeroos, 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 3228900; Vince Galindo, 9 p.m. Wednesdays. Trout’s & The Blackboard Stages, 805 N. Chester Ave., 3996700; Red Simpson, 7 p.m. Monday.

Dancing Folklorico Classes, advance dancers/performing group 6 to 8 p.m. Fridays; and beginners, all ages, 10:30 a.m. to noon Saturdays, Fruitvale-Norris Park, 6221 Norris Road. Per month: $22 for beginners, $25 for advance dancers. 833-8790.

Thursday, February 7, 2013 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street Joaquin Squares, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, Rasmussen Center, 115 E. Roberts Lane. $5. 324-1390, 325-3086 or 399-3658. Beginner Belly Dance Lessons, 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. Mondays, Centre Stage Studio, 1710 Chester Ave. 323-5215. $45 regular session; $65 combo session. bakersfieldbellydance.biz. Pairs and Spares Dance, with After Hours, 7 p.m. Friday, Rasmussen Senior Center, 115 E. Roberts Lane. $7; $9 nonmembers. 399-3575. Greenacres Community Center, 2014 Calloway Drive, offers ballroom dance, East Coast swing (jitterbug) and Argentine tango dance classes; $35, $45 for nonmembers. 322-5765 or 201-2105.

DJ DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court. 3237111; live in the mix: old school, ’80s and ’90s music, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. every Saturday. Le Corusse Rouge, 4647 White Lane, 834-1611; with DJ Chill in the Mixx, 5 p.m. every Friday until 2 a.m. Saturday. On the Rocks, 1517 18th St., 3277625; DJ Chuck One, 9 p.m. Friday. Free. Visit facebook.com/ontherocksbakersfield. Rockstarz Party Bar, 7737 Meany Ave., Suite B5, 589-6749; DJ James, 9 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays. Free. The Bull Shed Bar & Grill, at Hotel Rosedale, 2400 Camino Del Rio Court, 327-0681; with Meg, 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; DJ Brian, 7 to 11 p.m. Tuesday.

Folk rock On the Rocks Bar & Grill, 1517 18th St., 327-7625; Rob Larkin & Joesph Eib, 9 p.m. Thursday. $5. 21 and older.

Indie pop Jerry’s Pizza, 1817 Chester Ave., 633-1000; Hey Ocean, 6 p.m. Sunday. $10. timgardeapresents.com. All ages.

Jazz Cafe Med, 4809 Stockdale Highway., 834-4433; Richie Perez, 7:30 to 11 p.m. Thursdays. Imbibe Wine & Spirits Merchant, 4140 Truxtun Ave., 633WINE; live music with a local artist and Jazz Connection, 6 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday; 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. King Tut, 10606 Hageman Road; live Instrumental and vocal jazz, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Que Pasa Mexican Cafe, 2701 Ming Ave., 832-5011; Jazz Invasion, 9 to 10 p.m. Saturdays. The Nile, 1721 19th St. 364-2620; 6 p.m. Sundays. $10. Wine Me Up, 3900 Coffee Road, 588-8556, Mauro with Rico Velazquez and Jamie, 7 to 11 p.m. Saturday.

Le Corusse Rouge, 4647 White Lane, 834-1611; Bakersfield Jazz Workshop, 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. Wednesdays.

Karaoke Banacek’s Lounge, 4601 State Road, 387-9224; 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Fridays. Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Thursdays and Sundays. Cataldo’s Pizzeria, 4200 New Stine Road, 397-5000; 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday. Chateau Lounge, 2100 S. Chester Ave., 835-1550; 9 p.m. Saturdays. Don Perico Restaurant, 2660 Oswell St., Suite 133, 871-2001; 7 to 11 p.m. Thursdays. El Torito Restaurant, 4646 California Ave., 395-3035, with Irish Monkey Entertainment, 8 p.m. Saturdays. Julie’s The Branding Iron Saloon, 1807 N. Chester Ave., 6 to 10 p.m. Fridays. Lone Oak Inn, 8 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10612 Rosedale Highway. 589-0412. Maria Bonita Mexican Restaurant, 10701 Highway 178, 3663261, 7 to 11 p.m. Fridays. All ages. Pour House, 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays at 4041 Fruitvale Ave. 589-9300. Pyrenees Cafe, 601 Sumner, 3230053; 8 p.m. to midnight Saturdays. Rocket Shop Cafe, 2000 S. Union Ave., 832-4800; 8:30 p.m. to midnight Saturday. Round Table Pizza, 2060 White Lane, 836-2700; 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesday. Sports & Spirits, 6633 Ming Ave., 398-7077; 9 p.m. Thursdays and Saturdays. The Old River Monte Carlo, 9750 Taft Highway, 837-0250; 8:30 p.m. Thursdays. The Playhouse Lounge, 2915 Taft Highway; 397-3599; 7 to 10 p.m. Sundays. The Prime Cut, 9500 Brimhall Road, 831-1413; karaoke for team Relay for Life: Cancer Fighter, 9 p.m. Friday. $5. The Regent, 2814 Niles St., 8714140; 8:30 p.m. Fridays. The Wright Place, 2695-G Mount Vernon Ave., 872-8831, 8 p.m. Thursdays. Tomi’s Cowgirl Cafe, 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, 1440 Weedpatch Highway. 363-5102. Best Western, 2620 Buck Owens Blvd., 327-9651; The Junction with host Mac Clanahan, 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays. Big Daddy Pizza, 6417 Ming Ave., 396-7499; 7 to 10 p.m. Tuesdays; 8 to 11 p.m. Fridays. Cataldo’s Pizzeria, 6111 Niles St., 363-7200; 6:15 to 10:15 p.m. Tuesdays. City Slickers, 1001 W. Tehachapi Blvd., 822-4939; 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court; 8 p.m. to midnight Tuesdays. Elevation Lounge, 818 Real Road, 325-6864; 9 p.m. Wednesday. Ellis Island Pizza Co., 3611 Stockdale Highway, 832-0750; karaoke contest, four $25 gift certificates will be given away, 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesday. Ethel’s Old Corral, 4310 Alfred Harrell Highway, 873-7613; 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays. Iron Horse Saloon, 1821 S. Chester Ave., 831-1315; 7 to 11 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays. Le Corusse Rouge, 4647 White Lane, 834-1611; A to Z Karaoke, 8 p.m. to midnight Tuesdays. Long Branch Saloon, 907 N. Chester Ave., 399-8484; 8 p.m. Wednesdays. Magoo’s Pizza, 1129 Olive Drive, 399-7800; 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Tuesday. McMurphy’s Irish Pub & Sports Bar, 14 Monterey St., 869-1451; 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. Tuesdays. Replay Sports Lounge & Grill, 4500 Buck Owens Blvd., 3243300; 8 p.m. Wednesdays. Rockstarz Party Bar, 7737 Meany Ave., Suite B5, 589-6749; 8 p.m. Mondays through Wednesdays. Rocky’s Pizza & Arcade, 2858 Niles St., 873-1900; Joey Zaza’s Karaoke and Stuff, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Round Table Pizza, 4200 Gosford Road, 397-1111; 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays. Rusty’s Pizza, 5430 Olive Drive, 392-1482; 6:30 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays. Sky Bar and Lounge, 4208 Rosedale Highway, 633-1116; with Ben Lara, 7 to 11 p.m. Tuesdays. Syndicate Lounge, 1818 Eye St., 327-0070; with Alisa Spencer, 9 p.m. Wednesdays. Tejon Club, 117 El Tejon Ave., 3921747; 6 to 10 p.m. Saturdays. The Bull Shed Bar & Grill, at Hotel Rosedale, 2400 Camino Del Rio Court, 327-0681; 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. The Junction Lounge, 2620 Buck Owens Blvd., 327-9651; 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. Trouts & The Blackboard Stages, 805 N. Chester Ave., 399-6700; 7 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays, 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Mariachi Camino Real Restaurant, 6 to 9 p.m. Sundays at 3500 Truxtun Ave. 852-0493.

Open mic Juliana’s Art Cafe, listen to local performing artists, guitar and saxophone players, 7 to 9 p.m. Fridays, 501 18th St. 327-7507. Free. Fiddlers Crossing, 206 East F St., Tehachapi, 823-9994; 7 p.m. Wednesdays. $5. On the Rocks, 1517 18th St., 3277625; musicians, spoken word, poets, comedians, 8 p.m. Wednesdays. Free.

R&B Señor Pepe, 8450 Granite Falls Dr., 661-588-0385, Rebecca Aguilar and Lost Vinyl, 7 to 10 p.m. Thursday.

B. Ryder’s Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane, 397-7304; Dollyrots, 9 p.m. Friday. $5. All ages. Narducci’s Cafe, 622 E. 21 St., 324-2961; The Reckless Ones, 7 p.m. Friday. $10. timgardeapresents.com. Rockstarz Party Bar, 7737 Meany Ave., Suite B5, 589-6749; live bands, 9 p.m. Thursdays. KC Steakhouse, 2515 F St., 3229910; Jimmy Gaines, 6 to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday; Jimmy Gaines, Bobby O and Mike Hall, 6:30 to 11:30 p.m., featuring Glenda Robles, 8 to 11:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Soft rock

Wednesday 2/13

On the Rocks, 1517 18th St., 3277625; Midnight Run, tribute to Journey, 9 p.m. Saturday. $7 advance; $10 at the door. Steak and Grape, 4420 Coffee Road, 588-9463; 7 to 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. Free.

South Oswell Neighborhood Clean Up, meet at 5:45 p.m., at the southeast corner of South Oswell and Zephyr Lane. 549-0517. Tehachapi Car Club, dinner at 5:30 p.m., meeting at 6:30 p.m., Tehachapi Moose Lodge, 123 W. F St., Tehachapi. 822-5092.

Rock

Songwriters The Bistro, 5105 California Ave., 323-3905; Brent Brown, 6 to 8 p.m. Fridays.

Trivia night Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; 7 p.m. Tuesdays. Chuy’s, 2500 New Stine Road, 833-3469; 7 p.m. Tuesdays. On the Rocks, 1517 18th St., 3277625; 8 to 10 p.m. Monday. Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 3228900; with Dave Rezac, 10 p.m. Tuesdays.

Variety Golden State Mall, 3201 F St., 872-2037, Joe Loco Duet, 2 to 5 p.m. Sundays.

UPCOMING EVENTS Monday 2/11

The Prime Cut, 9500 Brimhall Road, 831-1413; featuring local artists, 7 to 10 p.m. Wednesdays.

Blood Drive, sponsored by Bakersfield Republican Women Federated; 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday and Wednesday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, Houchin Blood Bank, 11515 Bolthouse Drive. 3234222. Kern County Rose Society Meeting, 7 p.m., Calvary Bible

Que Pasa Mexican Cafe, 2701 Ming Ave., 832-5011; Al Garcia & the Rhythm Kings, 8 to 11 p.m. Thursday.

Tuesday 2/12 “Little Mermaid Jr.” Theatre Workshop, for ages 5 to 18, 3:45 to 5:45 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, through April 18, and 3:45 to 5:45 p.m. April 22 to May 3, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. $275. 861-1314. Bakersfield Pregnancy Center’s Benefit Banquet, featured speaker Abby Johnson, 6:30 p.m., Olive Knolls Church of the Nazarene, 6201 Fruitvale Ave. Complimentary tickets can be requested at bpcbanquet.org or 326-1915. Fat Tuesday Party, with Mento Buru and DJ Mikey, 7 p.m., Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. Free. 328-7560. Harlem & Beyond: Storytelling Concert, with Charlotte Blake Alston, 6 to 8 p.m., Beale Memorial Library, auditorium, 701 Truxtun Ave. Free. 868-0770.

Music showcase

Old School

Church, 48 Manor St. 327-3228 Tom Rigney & Flambeau, presented by Bakersfield Community Concert Association, 7:30 p.m., Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $60 for four remaining concerts. bakersfieldcca.org or 2058522 or 589-2478. Valentine’s Comedy Magic Show, with Chris Mitchell, 7:30 p.m., The Gaslight Melodrama, 12748 Jomani Drive. $20. Reservations, 587-3377.

Thursday 2/14 “Paint by Candlelight,” includes chocolates, strawberries and sparking cider, 6 to 10 p.m., Color Me Mine at The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave. $20 per couple. bakersfield.colormemine.com or 664-7366. Guild House Valentine’s Day Dinner, five-course meal, 6 p.m., The Guild House, 1905 18th St. $65. 325-5478. Harlem Globetrotters, 7 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $21-$103 plus fee. ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000. Red Cross New Volunteer Orientation, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., American Red Cross, Kern Chapter, 5035 Gilmore Ave. 324-6427. Sixth annual Good for the Heart Singles Dinner, with raffles, mini speed dating session, dinner at 6 p.m., activities at 6:30 p.m., The Garden Spot, 3320 Truxtun Ave. Free but you need a ticket, which may be picked up at restaurant from 2 to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday. 323-3236. South Valley Sound Chorus Acapella Practice Night, 7 p.m., Central Baptist Church, 203 S. H St. southvalleysound.org or 3466190.