61212 by Adams Street Publishing Co.

june 2012

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june 2012

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contents bizz buzz 7

Charging up downtown

2012 Readers choice 8 You chose. We listened.

june 2012

vol. 24 / no.6

31 theater

The ‘Vibrator Play’ uses satirical edge to tackle inequality by San Slomovits

36 everything else

food: in review 18 Happy Wok by Joe Saul and Lisa Leutheuser

Notes from a bartender 20

Home bar basics by Robyn Cleveland

music feature 22 Photo by Arne Hoel

Sincere Americana by Sandor Slomovits

perspective: folk 24 Remembering roots by Twila Price

Luca Ciarla Quartet will preform this month at KCH

26 perspective: rock

Our own fests by Jeff Milo

28 perspective: jazz

Festive summer scene means funs for all by Marc S. Taras

Anne Hilss will be preforming at the Ark

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Collette Jacobs cjacobs@ecurrent.com Publisher / Editor in Chief Mark Jacobs mjacobs@ecurrent.com Co-publisher / Chief Financial Officer EDITORIAL Scott Recker scott@ecurrent.com Arts & Entertainment Coordinator Matt Desmond mattd@ecurrent.com Staff Writer Julian Garcia calendar@ecurrent.com Calendar Editor ADVERTISING Aubrey Hornsby ahornsby@adamsstreetpublishing.com Sales Manager Ryan White ryan@ecurrent.com Sales Representative Heather Sekerak heather@ecurrent.com Sales Representative Kelly Schwarck kelly@ecurrent.com Sales Representative Susan Hayden sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com Sales Coordinator Chase Murphy classifieds@ecurrent.com Classified and Display Advertising ART & PRODUCTION Kristi Polus kristi@adamsstreetpublishing.com Art Director Sarah Baird production@adamsstreetpublishing.com Graphic Designer Alex Beat abeat@adamsstreetpublishing.com Graphic Designer Brittney Koehl adsin@ecurrent.com Graphic Designer William Mellon william@adamsstreetpublishing.com Graphic Designer ADMINISTRATION Robin Armstrong rarmstrong@ecurrent.com Accounting

Charging up downtown

by Jennie Barker Owners and potential owners of electric cars (EV) and plug-in hybrids (PHEV) often suffer from a term called ‘range anxiety’ which refers to the fear that a vehicle will run out of battery charge before reaching its destination. In an effort to quell these concerns, a handful of new charging stations will be added to downtown Ann Arbor by the end of the year. “Installing these ports will help accommodate downtown shoppers and restaurant goers who prefer electric vehicles,” said JP Lammers of Ann Arbor Automotive Group. According to Lammers, about 12 chargers will be available to use by the end of the month, with another six added later. Each port uses a standard extension cord to charge the vehicle, making it compatible with any electric or plug-in hybrid, whether it’s a Chevy Volt, Nissan Leaf or Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid. According to Lammers, most of the charging ports will be installed in parking garages, with one currently installed at Maynard & Liberty. For now, green cones are placed around the units to make them extra visible. As for fees to use the new stations, Lammers said there aren’t any. “There is only the standard fee for the parking structure,” he said. Ports located outside of downtown parking structures, may require some form of payment. ChargePoint charging stations for instance, requires the purchase of a card to access their ports. Customers can also download a phone app or use the company’s Web site to locate the nearest Chargepoint station. The ChargePoint ports which are produced by Coulomb Technologies, currently have Ann Arbor stations at DTE Energy on 425 S. Main Street as well as at Washtenaw Community College. Regardless of where the stations are placed, in the long-term, Lammers expects “many more to come,” saying that a formal announcement providing further information will be released in the next few months.

Also in bizz

Red Rock Downtown Barbecue, located at 207 W. Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti is now open. After a soft opening on St. Patrick’s Day, they are now open seven days a week. www.redrockypsi.com

The New York Pizza Depot, located at 605 E. Williams St., now serves beer.

Red Shoes, an art, home decor and vintage furniture store, has reopened its doors at 332 S. Ashley St. It closed for renovation last January.

Daniel Light distribution@ecurrent.com Distribution Marisa Rubin mrubin@adamsstreetpublishing.com Office Assistant INTERN Jennie Barker intern@ecurrent.com © 2012 by Adams Street Publishing Co., All rights reserved. 3003 Washtenaw Ave., Suite 3, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, Phone (734) 668-4044, Fax (734) 668-0555. First class subscriptions $28 a year. Distributed throughout Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti and neighboring towns.

Printed on recycled paper

Also publishers of:

ecurrent.com / june 2012 7

feature

You, the reader, have once again spoken. And what we got from the 2012 Best of Wastenaw County: Readers Choice is a healthy mix of newbies and perpetual champions; showing that new lifeblood is always flowing through our community, yet a backbone of venerable establishments still stands strong.

Local Color Shopping Services Best New Slogan for Ann Arbor Buy local Runner Up: We got A2tude Summer Year Round

Local Non Profit Food Gatherers

1 Carrot Way, Ann Arbor Township 734 761-2796 www.foodgatherers.org Runner Up: Growing Hope

Do Gooder Priscilla Fisher

Runner Up: Avalon Housing

Politician Mayor John Heiffe

Runner Up: State Rep. Jeff Irwin

Tourist Attraction The Big House/ U of M Stadium 1 E. Stadium Blvd. www.mgoblue.com Runner Up: Hands on Museum

Place to See Someone Famous Zingerman’s Deli 422 Detroit St. 734 663-3354 www.zingermans.com Runner Up: The Big House/U of M Stadium

Ann- Arborite in Need of a Reality Show Pete Thomas, Biggest Loser Winner and Motivational Speaker Runner Up: Current Magazine downtown distributor Mark Frisch

College Course U of M’s Woody Plants

Runner Up: U of M’s History of Oceans

Computer Repair

Beagle Brain

2 Nickels Arcade, Ann Arbor 734-623-9000 www.beaglebrain.com Beagle Brain has again snagged the Reader's Choice for this category, proving that the pro's here provide quality work and customer satisfaction. They offer free estimates and a variety of services that can fix what seems impossible including liquid damage repair, cracked screen replacement and data recovery. At Beagle Brain they also offer on-site service and they will recycle your old computers. —JG

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2012 / ecurrent.com

New Business Wendy 5 Nickels Arcade 734 327-9001 www.shopwendy.com Runner Up: Babo

Green Oriented Business People’s Food Co-op 216 N. 4th Ave. 734 994-9174 www.peoplesfood.coop Runner Up: Seva

Shopping Center Kerrytown Market & Shops

407 N. 5th Ave. 734 662-5008 www.kerrytown.com Runner Up: Arborland

Furniture Store Art Van

425 E. Eisenhower, 3550 Washtenaw Ave. 734-747-7170 www.artvan.com Runner Up: Three Chairs

Garden Supply Downtown Home and Garden

210 S. Ashley St. 734 662-8122 www.downtownhomeandgarden. com Runner Up: English Gardens

Hardware Store Stadium Hardware

2177 W. Stadium Blvd. 734-663-8704 Runner Up: Ace Hardware

Appliance Store Big George’s 2023 W. Stadium Blvd. 734-669-9500 www.big-georges.com Runner Up: Stadium Hardware

Home Boutique Downtown Home and Garden

210 S. Ashley St. 734-662-8122 www.downtownhomeandgarden. com Runner Up: Treasure Mart

Hotel

Weber's Inn

3050 Jackson Rd., Ann Arbor 734-769-2500 www.webersinn.com The Weber family has been running this boutique hotel, restaurant, banquet & conference facility since it was founded in 1937 by Herman Weber. One of the most popular features is the Four Seasons Pool and poolside rooms with balconies and spiral staircases which creates an illusion of being outside while covered by a grand atrium. The Hotel is home to a fine dining restaurant as well as a contemporary nightclub, The Habitat Lounge, which features live bands and dancing on weekends. Weber’s Inn also offers free wireless internet access and great getaway packages. —JG

Natural Food Store People’s Food Co-op

216 N. 4th Ave. 734-994-9174 www.peoplesfood.coop Runner Up: Arbor Farms

Produce market Produce Station

1629 S. State St. 734-663-7848 www.producestation.com Runner Up: Ann Arbor Farmer’s market

Super Market Busch’s Market

2020 Green Rd. 2240 S. Main St. 734-994-7200 www.buschs.com Runner Up: Plum Market

Caterer Zingerman’s Deli 422 Detroit St. 888-636-8162 www.zingermans.com Runner Up: EAT

Party/Wine Store A & L Wine Castle

2424 W. Stadium Blvd. 734-665-9350 www.thewinecastle.net Runner Up: Beer Depot

Place to Throw a party Corner Brewery 114 E. Washington St. 734-480-2739 www.arborbrewing.com Runner Up: Hathaway Hiding

Apartment Complex Meadowbrook Village 1550 Brookfield Dr. 734-761-7700 Runner Up: Spruce Knob

Hotel Weber’s Inn

3050 Jackson Ave. 734-769-2500 www.webersinn.com Runner Up: Bell Tower

Florist Tom Thompson’s

504 S. Main St. 734-665-4222 www.tomtompsonflowers.com Runner Up: Chelsea Flowers

Auto Dealer Howard Cooper Honda

2575 S. State St. 734-761-3200 www.howardcooperhonda.com Runner Up: Dunning Toyota

Trustworthy Auto Repair Convenience Auto 2280 W. Liberty St. 734-769-0170 www. convenienceauto.com Runner Up: Fawzi’s

Bicycle Shop Two Wheel Tango

3162 Packard St. 734-528-3030 www.twowheeltango.com Runner Up: Great Lakes Bicycle continued on pg 10

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feature

continued from pg 9

Motorcycle Shop Café Racer

10 Cross St., Ypsilanti 734-879-1201 www.caferacerypsi.com Runner Up: Nicholson’s

Independent Book Store Nicola’s Books

2513 Jackson Ave. 734-622-0600 www.nicolasbooks.com Runner Up: Crazy Wisdom

Golf Course Leslie Park

Leslie Park Circle www.a2gov.org 734-794-6245 Runner Up: Huron Hills

Outdoor Store Gear Bivouac

336 S. State St. 734-761-6207 www.bivouacannarbor.com Runner Up: REI

Used Book Store Dawn Treader

Non-Chain Music Store Encore

Comic Book Store The Vault of Midnight

Musical Instrument Store Herb David

514 E. Liberty St. 734-995-1008 www.dawntreaderbooks.com Runner Up: West Side Books

219 S. Main St. 734-998-1413 www.vaultofmidnight.com Runner Up: Fun 4 A

417 E. Liberty St. 734-662-6776 www.encorerecordsa2.com Runner Up: Wazoo

302 E. Liberty St. 734-665-8001 www. herbdavidguitarsstudio.com Runner Up: Oz

Most Knowledgeable Music Store Encore

417 E. Liberty St. 734-662-6776 www.encorerecordsa2.com Runner Up: Herb David

Friendliest Store Staff Encore 417 E. Liberty St. 734-662-6776 www.encorerecordsa2.com Runner Up: Acme Merchantile

Computer Repair Beagle Brain 2 Nickels Arcade 734-623-9000 www.beaglebrain.com Runner Up: Bulldog

Thrift Store Salvation Army

100 Arbana Dr. 3660 Packard St. 734-668-8353 www.salvationarmy.org Runner Up: Value World Village

Ad Agency/ Design Firm

Frog Island 6 E. Cross St., Ypsilanti 734-330-2511 www.frogislandcreative.com Frog Island is a new-age one-stop shop for all your marketing needs. They create slick, user-friendly web pages; eye-catching, even edgy pamphlets and direct-marketing postcards; fitting logos and signs of all shapes and sizes. They even have in-house copy writers to tackle all your business’ technical writing needs. Oh, and they do video, too. With numerous creative minds under one roof, you're getting a whole bundle of outsourced brains for the price of one. —SR

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feature

Doctor Dr. Amy Cooke

3055 Plymouth Rd. 734-769-3896 Runner Up: Dr. Cheryl Strzoda

continued from pg 10

Cool Pros

Plastic Surgeon Paul Izenberg, Center for Plastic Surgery

Real Estate Agent Linda Lombardi

Website Design Igadea

323 Braun Court 734-302-3011 www.lindalom.com Runner Up: Vance Shutes

815 Wildt St. 2232 S. Main St. 734-929-6082 Runner Up: Frog Island

Bank/Credit Union U of M Credit Union

Lasik Eye Surgeon Dr. Wu 2 Rebecca A. Wu/ Briarwood Health Associates

333 E. William St. 734-662-8200 www.umcu.org Runner Up: TCF

Ad Agency/ Design Firm Frog Island

6 E. Cross St., Ypsilanti 734-330-2511 Runner Up: Wagner Design

325 Briarwood Circle 734-647-9000 Runner Up: Dr. Louis Gago M.D. TLC center

Dentist Dr. Tim Mcintosh

3250 Plymouth Rd., Suite 301, Ann Arbor 734-769-2707 Runner Up: Santine Indricon (Empire Dental)

5333 McAuley Dr. 734-712-2323 www.cprs-aa.com Runner Up: Michelle Hardaway, Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and Laser Center

Veterinarian Dr. Bill McArthur, Affordable Vet Services

611 S. Ashley St. 734-926-0114 www.affordablevetservices.com Runner Up: Dr. Monica Turrence, Washtenaw Vet

Travel Agent Boersma Travel

12 Nickels Arcade 734-424-3985 www.boersmatravel.com Runner Up: Regency Travel

Local Animal Rescue Humane Society of Huron Valley 3100 Cherry Hill Rd. 734-662-5585 www.hshv.org Runner Up: Waggs and Wishes

Doggy Day Care Breed Above

2281 W. Liberty St. 734 214-3900 www.breedabove.com Runner Up: Arbor Dog

Place for Alternative Health Care White Wolf Healing 734 277-7347 www.whitewolfhealing.com Runner Up: Bio Medical Center

Chiropractor Kim Jackson, Ann ArborSaline Family 4825 Ann Arbor-Saline Rd. 734-930-6990 www.annarborchiro.org Runner Up: Tom Klapp/ Ann Arbor Chiropractic

Local Blog

Damn Arbor

www.damnarbor.com

A first-person, in-depth and informal look into everything Ann Arbor — politics, music, simply being out and about — Damn Arbor is exactly what you want out of a blog. With energy and wit they are in the loop and I like how they describe themselves: “A blog about life, Ann Arbor, and life in Ann Arbor. We are grad students, townies, and derelicts. We are to be feared.”—SR

Looking good, feeling good Place to get a Haircut Orbit Hair Design

334 1/2 State St. 734-663-0393 www.orbithair.net Runner Up: Arcade Barbers

Massage Therapist Julie, Relax Station

734-623-1951 www.relaxstationmassage.com Runner Up: Stacee Shelly, Orbit

june

Day Spa Bellanina

Place to Play Tennis Liberty Athletic

Fitness /Health Club The YMCA

Facial/Skin Care Douglas J. Aveda Institute

Yoga/Pilates Yoga Room/Christie Burton

Cool Eyewear See Eyewear

201 N. 4th Ave. 734-327-1000 www.bellaninadayspa.com Runner Up: Fran Coy

333 Maynard St. 734-929-0453 www.douglasj.com Runner Up: Bellanina

2012 / ecurrent.com

2975 W. Liberty Rd. 734-665-3738 www.libertyathletic.net Runner Up: Veteran’s park

2975 W. Liberty Rd. 734-761-8409 www.libertyathletic.net Runner Up: Ann Arbor Yoga

400 W. Washington St. 734-996-6622 www.annarborymca.org Runner Up: Liberty Athletics

308 S. State St. 734-622-8056 www.seeeyewear.com Runner Up: D.O.C. continued on pg 14

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feature continued from pg 12

Best Piercing Studio Pangea

211 E. Liberty St. 734-929-6226 www.pangeapirecing.com Runner Up: Lucky Monkey

Best Tattoo Parlor Lucky Monkey

308 S. Ashley St. 734-623-8200 www.luckymonkeytatto.com Runner Up: Name Brand

Tanning Salon Tanfastic

627 S. Main St. 734-213-2279 www.annarbortans.com Runner Up: Campus Tan

Locally Owned Women’s Boutique Wendy

5 Nickels Arcade 734-327-9001 www.shopwendy.com Runner Up: Orchid Lane

Locally owned Men’s Boutique Van Boven 17 Nickels Arcade 734-665-1355 www.vanboven.com Runner Up: Sam’s

Vintage Store The Getup 215 State St. 734-327-4300 www.thegetup.com Runner Up: Star Vintage

Shoe Store Mast Shoes

2517 Jackson Ave. 734-662-8118 www.mastshoes.com Runner Up: Footprints

Jewelry Store Abracadabra

205 E.Liberty St. 734-662-8118 www.abracadabrajewelry.com Runner Up: Ten

Best Local Farm

Sunseed Farm

2886 W. Joy Rd. 734-224-4228 www.farmsunseed.com

At Sunseed Farm their mission is "to be the best example of professional, educational and communityenriching ecological vegetable production in southeast Michigan." Sunseed is a year-round vegetable farm with a CSA program to benefit the community. CSA means community supported agriculture, and the public can join by paying up-front for 16 weeks of veggies during three share seasons, Winter, Summer and Fall. Each week members pick up a share of the crop — enough to feed the whole family with varieties of more than 70 different vegetables depending on what's in season. Get ahold of Tomm, Trilby or Jae. They will also offer expert farming advice and large scale consulting. —JG

Dining & Drinking New Restaurant Mani Osteria

Greek

Deli Zingerman’s Deli

341 E. Liberty St. 734-769-6700 www.maniosteria.com Runner Up: Raven’s Club

Mr. Greeks 215 S. State St. 734-662-6336 www.mrgreeka2.com Runner Up: Ali Baba

Chinese Evergreen

Italian Gratzi

Fine Dining West End Grille

Middle Eastern Jerusalem Garden

Coffee House Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea

2771 Plymouth Rd. 734-769-2748 www.evergreen-restaurant.com Runner Up: Panda House

Japanese Miki

106 S. 1st St. 734-665-8226 www.mikirestuarant.com Runner Up: Yotsuba

326 S. Main St. 888-456-3463 www.gratzirestaurant.com Runner Up: Palio

307 S. 5th Ave. 734-995-5060 www.jerusalemgarden.net Runner Up: Star’s Café

Mexican Tio’s

Korean Arirang

3135 Oak Valley Dr. 734-222-5959 Runner Up: Be Won

401 E Liberty St. 734-761-6650 www.tiosmexicancafe.com Runner Up: Sabor Latino

Thai Marnee Thai

Local Farm Sunseed Farm

414 S. Main St. 734-929-9933 www.marneethai-restaurant.com Runner Up: Old Siam

june

2886 W. Joy Rd. 734 224-4228 www.farmsunseed.com/ Runner Up: Dawn Farm

2012 / ecurrent.com

422 Detroit St. 734 663-3354 www.zingermans.com Runner Up: Amer’s

734-747-6260 www.westendgrillannarbor.com Runner Up: The Earle

3393 Plymouth Rd. 407 North 5th Ave. 123 W. Washington Ave. 734-769-2331 www.sweetwaterscafe.com Runner Up: Comet Coffee

Breakfast North Side Grille

1015 Broadway St. 734-995-0965 Runner Up: Angelo’s

Diner The Fleetwood Diner 300 S. Ashley St. 734-995-5502 Runner Up: Frank’s

Brew pub/Micro brewery Arbor Brewing Company

114 E. Washington St. 734-213-1393 www.arborbrewing.com Runner Up: Jolly Pumpkin

Locally Produced Food Ann Arbor Farmers Market

315 Detroit St. 734-794-6255 Runner Up: The Grange

Food Cart The Lunch Room

211 W. Washington 734-224-8859 www.thelunchrooma2.com Runner Up: Mark’s Carts

Food Blog Kitchen Chick

Runner Up: Provinceannarbor. worldpress.com

Club to See Live Music

The Blind Pig 208 S. 1st St. 734-996-8555

The stories about Kurt Cobain playing there are great tales of rock n roll. But, The Blind Pig isn't a past-its-prime, live-in-the-old-days type of venue. Every month they showcase kick-ass live music. Take a little look at coming months: Ypsiarboroo, featuring Washtenaw County's finest acts, on June 8; alt-rock scrappers Nada Surf on June 22; the highly anticipated Summer/Fall tour of Swedish folk duo First Aid Kit on September 25. The point: Always keep the Pig on your radar screen. —SR

Thank you, Current Readers, for voting us

“Best Animal Rescue”

Entertainment Annual Event Ann Arbor Art Fair

www.artfair.org Runner Up: Ann Arbor Summer Fest

Festival Ann Arbor Summer Fest www.annarborsummerfestival.org Runner Up: Festi Fools

Pre-game Hangout Buffalo Wild Wings

205 S. State St., Ann Arbor 734 997-9143 Runner Up: Pioneer High Parking Lot

Sports Bar The Arena

203 E. Washington St., Ann Arbor 734-222-9999 Runner Up: Buffalo Wild Wings

Bowling Alley Colonial Lanes

1950 S. Industrial Hwy., Ann Arbor 734-665-4474 www.coloniallanescubsac.com Runner Up: Bel Mark Lanes

Gay & Lesbian Venues Aut Bar

315 Braun Court., Ann Arbor 734-994-3677 www.autbar.com Runner Up: Necto

Place for 21st Birthday Necto

516 E. Liberty St. 734-994-5835 www.thenecto.com Runner Up: 8 Ball Saloon

in Washtenaw County! 3100 Cherry Hill Rd. Ann Arbor, MI 48105 (734) 662-5585

www.hshv.org

Media Radio Station 88.3 WCBN

Runner Up: 89.1 WEMU

Website annarbor.com

Runner Up: whitewolfhealing.com

Local Blog damnarbor.com

Runner Up: markmaynard.com

Local Youtube video Bros. Vs. Hipsters Runner Up: The Walk of Shame Shuttle

Company FB Page Adorn Me

Runner Up: Reincarnation Resale

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Hip Hop Artist MC Kadence continued from pg 15

Best Alternative Healing Center

White Wolf Healing

P.O. Box 8237, Ann Arbor 734-277-7347 www.whitewolfhealing.com At White Wolf Healing Virginia June is dedicated to keeping people happy and healthy using the age old techniques of acupuncture, one of the world's oldest sciences. She is registered with the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association and is trained in auricular acupuncture, targeting the sensitive points in the human ear which affect areas of the whole body. Virginia makes individual house calls. Schedule an acupuncture session for small parties or for your office! White Wolf Healing also conducts monthly trainings in the NADA auricular acupuncture protocol. —JG

june

Music New Artist/Band Thunderbuck Ram

Runner Up: Thrill$train

Local Album Get Bucked

Runner Up: Rockin Apart the Past

Band Name Thrill$train

Runner Up: Thunderbuck Ram

DJ/Electronica Artist Thrill$train

Runner Up: Thrill$train

Jazz/Blues Artist Laith Al Saadi

Runner Up: Paul Keller

Rock Band Laith Al Saadi

Runner Up: Thunderbuck Ram

Open Mic Blue Tractor

207 E. Washington St. 734-222-4095 www.bluetractor.net Runner Up: The Ark

Club to See Live Music The Blind Pig

Runner Up: Chuck Hampton

208 S. 1st St. 734-996-8555 Runner Up: The Ark

Folk/Country Artist Chris Bathgate

Dance Club Necto

Runner Up: Dragon Wagon

2012 / ecurrent.com

516 E. Liberty St. 734-994-5835 www.thenecto.com Runner Up: The Millennium Club

Pick up Bar Necto

516 E. Liberty St. 734-994-5835 www.thenecto.com Runner Up: Circus

Arts Live Theater venue Performance Network 120 E. Huron St. 734-663-0681 www.performancenetwork.org Runner Up: Michigan Theater

Theater Troupe Performance Network

120 E. Huron St. 734-663-0681 Runner Up: Geppetto Files

Dance Company Ann Arbor Ballet Theater 548 Church St., Ann Arbor 734-668-1001 www.annarborballettheatre.org Runner Up: Peter Sparling

Film Maker Andy Kirshner www.andykirshner.com Runner Up: Joe Moorehouse

Movie Filmed in Ann Arbor Ides of March

Runner Up: Answer This !

Movie Theater Michigan Theater

603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8463 www.michtheater.org Runner Up: Quality 16

Artist Karin Coron Wagner

www.wagnercoronart.com/wagner Runner Up: Barbara Melnick Carson

Place to See Local Art Gallery Project

Museum U of M Art Museum

525 S. State St. 734-764-0395 www.umma.umich.edu Runner Up: Hands On Museum

Fine Art photography Robin Gailbraith Vincent www.robinvincent.com Runner Up: Mike Hulsebus

Fine Arts Gift Shop Ann Arbor Art Center 117 West Liberty St. 734-994-8004 www.annarborartcenter.org Runner Up: Selo Shevel

Place to Hear the Spoken Word Neutral Zone

310 E. Washington St. 734-214-9995 www.neutral-zone.org Runner Up: Crazy Wisdom

New Business & Locally Owned Women’s Boutique

Wendy

5 Nickels Arcade, Ann Arbor 734 327-9001 www.shopwendy.com Wendy has been moving fast. The high-end women’s boutique, which carries venerable brands such as Eileen Fisher, has only been open a little over a year, but is already expanding — both in size and selection. While Wendy features mainly professional, formal attire, the owners have opened another branch called Johnny for those looking for a more casual, unstructured outfit with the same unbeatable quality. Check them out on the web too — they have deals on their Facebook page and a web shop is coming this month. —SR

215 S. 4th Ave. 734-997-7012 www.thegalleryproject.com Runner Up: U of M Art Museum

ecurrent.com / june 2012 17

food Happy Wok

in review Happy Wok

A Malaysian gem in an unexpected setting

by Joe Saul and Lisa Leutheuser “Chinese people usually eat the head,” our server told us, bemused that we’d taken so much effort to pick all the meat off our small fried pieces of fish, but left the tasty heads intact. At first glance, Happy Wok looks like just one of the ubiquitous, mostly-take out Chinese restaurants with General Tso’s on the menu and a few booths and tables for eating in. However, Happy Wok has something few of those other places have: in addition to the standards, they have a Malaysian and Singaporean menu, which is the focus of this review.

Appetizers

Roti Canai: this Indian-influenced dish, found in both Malaysia and Indonesia, is named after the delicate, flaky flatbread called Roti. The roti are served with a soupy mild yellow curry including bits of chicken breast and tomato.Tear off bits of the bread and mop up the delicious sauce. This one’s best when warm, when the bread pulls apart with a nice resistance; it gets a bit soggy when done as take out or delivery (though we still order it because sometimes we’ve just gotta have it). Lion Roll: A deep-fried roll, with tofu skin surrounding a mildly-flavored blend of ground pork, shrimp, and potato. Served in slices, with a fairly standard sweet and sour dipping sauce. The soft filling contrasts nicely with the crispy outer skin. (Takeout loses the crispness.)

Soups

These are often eaten as a stand-alone meal for one; they aren’t necessarily designed as a first course for a larger meal. Laksa Noodle with Shrimp: this creamy, coconut milk-based red curry noodle soup is lightly flavored with a bit of chili and loaded with shrimp, fake crab, and bites of fried tofu. It’s perhaps Lisa's favorite, and she's not alone as Happy Wok can run out of it. (Great for delivery.) Herb Soup (Bat Kut Teh): meaty pork ribs, cooked in a clear broth with Chinese herbs including long strips of Solomon’s Seal. A simple dish, and one which we think is intended to be eaten like chicken soup – good for what ails you.

Noodle and Rice Dishes

As with the soups, these are often eaten as a standalone meal. Cha Kway Teow: literally "stir-fried rice cake strips," this traditional street food dish was one of our consensus favorite dishes of the night. Shrimp, bean sprouts, pork, egg, all over flat rice noodles in a soy-based sauce; the dish was deep, with multi-layered flavors. Our server told us to eat it first because it was best hot, and she was right. You can get this delivered (and Joe has) but if you get it fresh, it’s ambrosial. Shrimp Mee Goreng: these stir-fried spicy noodles are similar to Chinese chow mein dishes, but with a Malay touch – beautifully done shrimp, great flavors of tomato

june

2012 / ecurrent.com

1916 W Stadium Blvd Ann Arbor, MI 48103 (734) 665-6888 http://www.happywokfood.com Mon-Thu: 10:30a – 10:30p Fri-Sat: 10:30a – 11p Sun: 11:30a – 10:30p and soy, a nice touch of heat that wasn't too overwhelming. A nicely balanced dish. Wonton Mee: Chinese Malaysian dish of noodles cooked in a sweet soy broth and served with a bit of Chinese BBQ pork, accompanied by delightful pork wontons (with nice thin wrappers and a delicious filling) and young bok choy. (Excellent delivery dish; comes with chicken broth to dip the wontons in. Can be lunch by itself.) Malaysian Spicy Shrimp Fried Rice: wellexecuted fried rice, not heavy, with shrimp, eggs and a sweet-spicy flavor. The heat adds interest; this is a good accompaniment to many of the main dishes below. (Good delivery dish.)

Main Dishes

Ikan Pang Gang: If you want to stretch your culinary horizons, you can try these grilled little fish served whole on the bone, with accompanying chili paste. The head, as mentioned above, is considered a delicacy. Sambal Fish: Tender slices of delicately-flavored fish and vegetables perfectly stir-fried in a sambal-based sauce that has a nice kick. (Sambal is a chili-based sauce found across southern Asia from Sri Lanka to the Phillipines.) We wouldn’t go there and order just this, but as part of a meal, it’s wonderful. Hainanese Chicken: A traditional regional dish and street-stall favorite, it looks deceptively simple but packs a lot of flavor. Boiled in stock and chopped into moist, bone-in chunks, it’s served with a dark soy-sugar-sesame sauce that you'll want to slosh over the accompanying rice that has been cooked in more chicken broth. Allow 30 minutes. Sweet & Sour Fish: Crispy, deep-fried, and not as sweet as the Americanized version you’re probably thinking of. As with the Sambal fish, it’s a bit ‘one-note’ if it’s the only thing you’re ordering, but it’s a great item to include in dinner where you’re sharing dishes around. Beef Rendang: the Malaysian interpretation of this famous Indonesian dish, falling-apart beef chunks in a coconut milk-based curry sauce, cooked down to dark perfection. Happy Wok's was saucier (with a thick gravylike sauce) than you’ll see at Indonesian restaurants. A group favorite. Belacan Green Bean: belacan (pronounced “blachan”) is Malay for shrimp paste. The beans were cooked nicely, to a perfect balance of soft and crunchy. This was one of the spicier dishes tried. Happy Wok is a small restaurant with limited seating, so if you’re going to descend on them with a group larger than four (as we did), we strongly recommend that you call ahead. But they’re worth the trip! Lisa and Joe have been blogging about food in the Ann Arbor area (and points beyond) since 2004. Check them out at www.kitchenchick.com.

food

Feast week

Food-lovers rejoice, the month of June is here and with it comes Ann Arbor's highly-anticipated Restaurant Week. Running June 10 through the 15, more than 40 of the most diverse local eateries will prepare an array of tasty items designed exclusively for the occasion. Customers can purchase from a $12 lunch menu or a slightly heftier $25 dinner option which features a three-course meal. Arranged by the Main Street Area Association, Restaurant week (also offered in January) is undeniably the way to experience Ann Arbor's finest dining, whether it's sampling unfamiliar dishes that have piqued your interest or making delicious new discoveries at an old favorite. Due to the high-volume of interest, reservations should be made in advance with a participating restaurant. Lunch $12; Dinner $25. 734-668-7112. http://annarborrestaurantweek.com/ —JB

3 sunday Taste of Ann Arbor

11am-5pm. $0.50. Downtown Ann Arbor, Main St. between William and Washington. 734-668-7112. mainstreetannarbor.org

Participating restaurants offer tastes of their menus for only 50 cents a piece. Restaurants on hand cover a range of dining tastes, from Mahek Indian Cuisine to Cafe Japon, and there’ll be live performances to enjoy, too.

12 tuesday Michigan Strawberry Festival cooking class

6:30-9:30pm. $65. Ann Arbor Cooks, 5060 Jackson Rd. 734-645-1030 www.annarborcooks.com

The lipstick red fruit will be celebrated in this cooking class, where strawberries are made into sweet and savory dishes. Decorating a shortcake on a bed of leafy spinach salad, drizzled with balsamic, even flavoring water --- all sorts of new ways of enjoying the fruit will be taught in this class with instructor Allison Shelters. Register online by June 10.

13 wednesday Rustic Italian Cooking: A Taste of Southern Italy

Wed. & Thurs., 5:30-8:30pm. $98. Whole Foods Market, 3135 Washtenaw Ave. 734-677-5060. www.wccnet.edu/lifelong-learning

Spend two delicious culinary

$2OFF Total Purchase Present coupon at checkout.

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no coupons accepted during 50% off storewide sales events. Limit One Coupon Per Transaction

C06-12

evenings exploring native northern Italian cooking with instructor Francesca Giarraffa. Each night a complete rustic Italian meal featuring an entree, side dish and dessert will be prepared and enjoyed (like the sweet biancomangiare, a cream pudding made with almonds and orange zest). Register online.

14 thursday Beer Tasting: Fruit Beers

7-9pm. $25-$30. Arbor Brewing Pub & Eatery,114 E. Washington St. 734-213-1393. www.arborbrewing.com/pub

Taste cherry ales and blueberry stouts at the fruit beers installment of these monthly tastings. Tickets include beer samples, an appetizer buffet, and an entry in a door prize drawing. Tickets often sell out, so purchasing early over the phone is recommended.

Buy Local and Meet the Local Producers

11am-7pm. Free. Whole Foods Market, 3135 Washtenaw Ave. 734-975-4500. wholefoodsmarket. com/stores/annarbor

The best way to mull over the importance of buying local produce is while you taste it. This free event will allow you to meet local vendors, hear their stories and try their products, so you can hear about (and taste) their environmental impact.

21 thursday Rush Hour Relief: Around the World in Five Roses

5-8:30pm. $17. Whole Foods Market, 990 W. Eisenhower Pkwy. 734-997-7500. wholefoodsmarket. com/stores/cranbrook

Join the relief from the hectic work day (and ensuing traffic on the way home) at this wine tasting. There’ll be cheese and appetizers on hand, too.

Start a tour of some of Michigan’s best wineries at The Real Seafood Company (with some drinks and appetizers at the restaurant to get you started, of course). Then embark on a road trip guided by a Golden host to three wineries.

29 sunday (un)Corked Wine Tasting: Exploration Italy 7-8:30pm. $15. Le Pop Gallery, 101 N. Main St. 734-663-7848. www.localwineevents.com

Enjoy cheese and sips of 8 different kinds of fine Italian wines at a tasting hosted by The Produce Station. The featured wines come from Jackson, MI wine importer Peerless Wine Selections. Visit our new website www.ecurrent.com for more events

23 saturday Golden Wine Tour

12-5:30pm.$125. The Real Seafood Company, 341 S. Main St. 800-300-5151. www.goldenlimo.com/winetours

Wine country In September

Paesano will take you

to the home of wine. Wednesday September 26, the tour group will leave to spend four nights in Santa Margherita on the Italian Riviera, then after a drive along the northern Ligurian coast you will stay in Nice, the capital of the Cote d'Azur on the French Riviera. From there head to the beautiful Monte Carlo and Monaco where you will see the village of St.Paul de Vence with its art galleries and incredible views. For those who want to spend a bit more time in Italy, Paesano will be offering an optional three night stay in the baroque city of Turin, one of the most famous producing areas in Italy. For more information, contact suzanalxdr@aol.com or call 734-327-1931. —BW

A non-profit resale shop supporting Ann Arbor Public Schools & Students

SHOP & DONATE a2ptothriftshop.org

Donating furniture? We offer free furniture pick-up! Call for details. 734-996-9155.

ecurrent.com / june 2012 19

food

Notes from a bartender Home bar on a budget by Robyn Cleveland (Barman at The Ravens Club)

As a bartender, many people often ask me “what is the best?” or “what is your favorite?” To answer these questions, I always ask the question, “what are you using it for?” Are you drinking it straight or making a cocktail? To address the latter I have decided to compile a list of some of my favorite (wallet friendly) spirits that I believe work well in many cocktail applications. Let me say, as one of my esteemed colleagues has tattooed on his arm, that I am 'a whiskey man, with a particular fondness for gin.' I could talk all day about high-end rye whiskey, single malt scotch, or the subtle nuances and hints of different citrus notes a particular gin might have. It has also been rumored that I have had a few passionate love affairs with Kentucky bourbon, and Tennessee whiskey (not at the same time of course). This list of base spirits should get you on the road to making many of the popular drinks out there today. A

VODKA

TEQUILA

GIN

$19.97

UGLY DOG $19.97

BROKER’S LONDON DRY $17.98

BRANDY

ST.REMY XO $14.98

PISCO

ALTO DEL CARMEN $14.98

june

few of them work remarkably well for sippin’ too! I tried my best to keep everything below $25 with the majority under $20. As far as additional liqueurs, vermouths, juices, purees, spices, and syrups, the possibilities are endless. I cannot stress enough the importance of using fresh squeezed juices. A small hand held citrus-press is an affordable tool that will pay maximum dividends towards the end result. As far as sugar is concerned, I prefer unrefined demerara cubes. They add a silky richness you just can’t get from regular white sugar unless of course a recipe calls for superfine sugar (there is no sub for that). Other tools that are a must: Boston shaker with mixing glass, Hawthorne strainer, mesh strainer, jiggers or oxo mini measuring cup, a solid barspoon, and muddler. Check out www.cocktailkingdom.com or www.kegworks.com.

COGNAC

CACHACA

REPOSADO EL ESPOLON

BOURBON

YPIOCA PRATA (1000ml) $27.94

RUM

WHISKEY

AROMATIC ANGOSTURA & PEYCHAUD’S $7-15

BLANCO CAZADORES $19.52

DEAU ARTISAN VS $19.97

FOUR ROSES $18.97

WHITE FLOR DE CANA EXTRA DRY $12.99

TENESSEE GEORGE DICKEL #12 $21.97

BLACK STRAP $13.95

$25.95

DARK/BLACK CRUZAN GOLD DON Q ANEJO $17.98

2012 / ecurrent.com

AMERICAN RYE BULLEIT 95

(sugar cane rum; popular in Brazil)

BITTERS

ORANGE FEE BROS. or ANGOSTURA $7-15

VERMOUTH

DRY NOILLY PRAT SWEET CINZANO ROSSO

food

Notes from a bartender Home bar on a budget by Robyn Cleveland (Barman at The Ravens Club)

VODKA

TEQUILA

GIN

$19.97

UGLY DOG $19.97

BROKER’S LONDON DRY $17.98

BRANDY

ST.REMY XO $14.98

PISCO

ALTO DEL CARMEN $14.98

june

COGNAC

CACHACA

REPOSADO EL ESPOLON

BOURBON

YPIOCA PRATA (1000ml) $27.94

RUM

WHISKEY

AROMATIC ANGOSTURA & PEYCHAUD’S $7-15

BLANCO CAZADORES $19.52

DEAU ARTISAN VS $19.97

FOUR ROSES $18.97

WHITE FLOR DE CANA EXTRA DRY $12.99

TENESSEE GEORGE DICKEL #12 $21.97

BLACK STRAP $13.95

$25.95

DARK/BLACK CRUZAN GOLD DON Q ANEJO $17.98

2012 / ecurrent.com

AMERICAN RYE BULLEIT 95

(sugar cane rum; popular in Brazil)

BITTERS

ORANGE FEE BROS. or ANGOSTURA $7-15

VERMOUTH

DRY NOILLY PRAT SWEET CINZANO ROSSO

ecurrent.com / june 2012 21

music

Bill Bynum and Co. bring evocative, sincere country songs to the Ark and Top of the Park this June

Sincere Americana Bill Bynum and Co. release Less is More by Sandor Slomovits

Bill Bynum and Co.’s new CD is titled Less is More. If you had to come up with a nutshell description of their music, that phrase would do nicely. Adjectives such as genuine, authentic, sincere, satisfying and pleasing would also be useful in any longer narrative about the group and their music. (Showy, flashy, glitzy, or extravagant would serve no useful purpose, except as antonyms.) These folks are the real deal. They sing and play a blend of country, bluegrass and old timey, with some gospel and honky tonk thrown in for good measure, and they do it all so naturally, so unpretentiously, that you can really relish and savor their fine music, rather than merely be impressed by it. (Although it’s easy to do that too.) Bynum’s songs often evolve from and revolve around some of country music’s staple themes—bibles and bars, prisons and trucks, the good old times now gone, and loves that have turned out bad. (Thankfully, his songs, unlike some current country, don’t glorify drinking to excess, or swearing and swaggering.) Instead, his lyrics often offer fresh, noteworthy words and rhymes on familiar subjects. In the title song, “Less is More,” a heartfelt ode to a childhood and a time now long gone, he writes poetically and powerfully of the poverty that was part and parcel of those days, “God was good, but not always giving,” and

june

2012 / ecurrent.com

“We never let a penny hit the floor.” “Jubilee Road” takes another nostalgic look back, “Yesterday’s gone, don’t you understand,” and burnishes a familiar chestnut to a new shine, “In my mind I live there still.” “Lovin’ You,” a song that won Bynum first place in the Metro Detroit Songwriting Showcase, is a reflective paean about a failed love. Filled with regret, but no resentment, it heals with a measure of gratitude, “At least I got to spend my time with you.” “Sinners and Saints” has the stunning hook, “Every sinner has a future and every saint has a past,” and ends even better with, “There with Him awaits our future, here today we make our past.” The Company of BB&C is good company indeed. The trio of Chuck Anderson, bass, Mary Seelhorst, fiddle and John Lang, steel guitar, supply, along with Bynum, plenty of pitch-perfect three part harmonies (they sometimes gather around a single microphone, like many of the traditional country performers used to) and also the sparkling solos that will set your toes tappin’ and your hands clappin.’ Bill Bynum and Co. will celebrate the release of their second CD with a concert at the Ark on June 7th, and will also appear at the Ann Arbor Summer Festival’s Top of the Park series on June 28th.

4 monday Jazz, Blues & R&B John Primer - The Ark

A master storyteller and songwriter, he has an endless repertoire and a sound thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s at once very familiar and pretty hard to find these days. John is the real deal in Chicago blues! 8pm. $15

NadaÂ Surf

BlindÂ PigÂ /Â Friday,Â JuneÂ 22

At the pinnacle of the bandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s popularity in the late 90s, Nada Surf's label, Elektra determined that their then current recording project lacked a "single," but the band stood its groundâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and found themselves without a label. Undaunted, they took day jobs and founded their own label, releasing the album Let Go to critical acclaim. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve found success outside the chew-em-up-and-spit-em-out machine of the major label system that would throw millions at the devil or worse (Justin Beiber) to make bank on a fad. Nada Surf's music has always had a certain subtle backbone to it â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and it's pretty obvious why. $16 in advance, $18 door. 9pm. 208 S. 1st St. 734-996-8555. www.blindpigmusic.com â&#x20AC;&#x201D;SR

2 saturday Jazz, Blues & R&B

Dobbins/Krahnke/Weed Trio - Kerrytown Concert House

The trio welcomes jazz master and legendary pianist Claude Black for their annual Jazz Masters Series. Guests will enjoy an evening of jazz accompanied by informal dialogue with the artists, receiving a rare glimpse into the artistsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; musical lives in jazz. 8pm. $5-$30

Rock, Pop & Hip-Hop Timothy Monger State Park - Woodruffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Timothy Monger assembled a group of very talented musicians to bring forth blue collar Michigan rock. 10pm. $5

Talib Kweli - Blind Pig

One half of the epic MC duo of Blackstar, Talib Kweli spins lyrical mastery that is conscientious while maintaining a poetic street lure. 9pm. $25 adv./ $28 door

8 friday Acoustic, Folk & Ethnic

As The Crow Flys Crazy Wisdom Bookstore and Tea Room

Singer Sue Nordman croons stories of sad existentialism in a smoky warble, while guitarist John Hicks provides musical backdrops for these soulsearching journeys that range from hypnotizing to soothing to downright depressive! 8:30pm. Free

Jazz, Blues & R&B

Homemade Jamz Blues Band - Guy Hollerinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

The youngest blues band in America bring their southern sound up to the A2 for a very special engagement for Local Blues Local Brews. 8pm. $17 adv./$20 door

9 saturday Rock, Pop & Hip-Hop

Rickie Lee Jones - The Ark

Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s performed straight jazz, blues, synth pop, new wave rock, pop covers, trip-hop, gospel, ambitious singer-songwriter music, and more, putting her

music unique spin on each style. Each new round of music-making activity by Rickie Lee Jones is different. 8pm. $47-$75

Jazz, Blues & R&B

Moutin Reunion Quartet Kerrytown Concert House

Brothers Louis and Francois Moutin formed Moutin Reunion Quartet in 1999, performing their original jazz compositions. In their own words, their music is inhabited by the spirit of jazz, swing, and related grooves. 8pm. $10-$30

10 sunday Acoustic, Folk & Ethnic

Heartland Klezmorim The Ark

Heartland Klezmorimâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s repertoire consists of popular traditional klezmer songs. The instrumental lineup consists of violin, trumpet, banjo, string bass, and drums, with band members alternating on dobro, mandolin, and classical guitar. 7:30pm. $15

Rock, Pop & Hip-Hop Bad Indians - Blind Pig Psychedelic rock lives on through this tribe out of Ypsilanti. 9:30pm. Free

Visit our NEW website www.ecurrent.com for more events! cont. on page 25

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-6$"4 1"6- #"/%

ecurrent.com / â&#x20AC;&#x201A; june 2012â&#x20AC;&#x192;â&#x20AC;&#x201A; 23

Hoel Photo by Arne

music

perspective: folk

(Left) Anne Hills, (above) Billy Bragg and The RFD Boys (and Friends), (below), all grace the stage of the Ark this month

Remembering roots by Twila Price

The man I’m looking forward to most is Billy Bragg, the British “alternative rock musician.” He’s been sticking it to the establishment for over 30 years, but he hates being labeled as a political songwriter; he sees himself writing about topical issues. He has admired Woody Guthrie for years, and you may like his Mermaid Avenue trio of albums with Wilco covering some unreleased Woody Guthrie songs in the late 1990s, early 2000s and the third — and final — volume just released two months ago at this year’s Record Store Day. In his current one-man show, he’s celebrating the 100th anniversary of Woody Guthrie’s birth, doing a two-part evening — first an acoustic set of Guthrie covers, and then a second set, full-on Bragg style. It should be an evening at the Ark to remember! Sunday, June 11, at 7:30pm. Tickets are $35. Buying in advance is highly recommended. If traditional American folk is more to your liking, Anne Hills has a gorgeous soprano voice and this lush song-writer is making one of her all-too-rare stops at the Ark on Wednesday, June 13, at 8pm. While I adore her frequent collaborations with other musicians, her solo tours are wonderful, as they give her a chance to showcase the fruits of over thirty years of performing and songwriting. She’s touring in support of her newest album, Rhubarb Trees. She is a perfectly lovely performer, with a voice that haunts your memory. Several of her songs are on my 5-star list. Tickets are $15. Perhaps, however, you hanker for some traditional klezmer music? In that case, Lansing’s Heartland Klezmorim, which is Michigan’s premiere (and only!) traditional klezmer band, playing violin, trumpet, banjo, string bass and drums, will be at the Ark Sunday June 10 at 8pm to satisfy your longings. The band celebrates the release of their first album, Gut Morgn, which features popular and traditional klezmer tunes. Tickets are $15. And, finally, local bluegrass legends The RFD Boys

june

2012 / ecurrent.com

Photo by Wiggy

(and Friends) will appear in a very special show at the Ark on Sunday, June 30, at 8pm. In honor and memory of their fiddle player and emcee, Dick Dieterle, who lost his battle with cancer in February, the Boys are celebrating the release of an album of Mr. Dieterle’s own bluegrass compositions, which was completed only weeks before his death. It’s going to be hard to imagine the RFD Boys without Mr. Dieterle, but they plan on keeping the legacy alive. Tickets are $25 Gold Circle, $20 reserved, and $15 general admission. Just a note that, while the schedule is not yet set for June, the Crazy Wisdom upstairs Tea Room has live music weekends every Friday and Saturday night from 8:30 to 10:30pm. Come in, have a cup of tea, and listen to fine live music. Recent musicians have included singer-songwriters, alt-country groups, jazz musicians, and Indian tabla maestros. The vibe is quite laid-back and the price is certainly right — it’s a no cover charge event.

Classical & Spiritual

MiniFest Kerrytown Concert House

The Appleseed Collective Woodruff's / June 23

The Appleseed Collective is a curious bunch of minstrels. Their music is at once classic and, perhaps guided by their youth, totally refreshing and as hip as any contemporary sound. Andrew Brown, the lead vocalist and guitar player, has a voice which seems suspended in time, as if one would've heard it echoing out of a blues joint in the 1930's. Add in Katie Lee's sultry vocals and the band is fully equipped to blend jazz, blues, swing and bluegrass. The whole band is a talented collective of young musicians and their ability to roll in and out of three and four part harmonies leaves audiences captivated.10pm. $5. Woodruff's, 36 E Cross St., Ypsilanti. www.woodruffsbar.com—JG

cont. from page 23

13 wednesday Acoustic, Folk & Ethnic

The Ferdy Mayne Woodruff’s

The Ferdy Mayne weaves fun little ditties with a backwoodslike delivery. 10pm. $5

14 thursday Jazz, Blues & R&B

Fringe Presents Relay For Life Benefit Kerrytown Concert House

17 sunday Rock, Pop & Hip-Hop Mishka & Anuhea Blind Pig

Mishka infuses his Caribbean upbringing with soulful guitar. Anuhea’s signature guitar rhythms, sultry vocals and honest song writing weave acoustic soul, R&B, jazz and hip hop with pop appeal, making Anuhea Hawaii’s next rising star. 9pm. $15

19 tuesday Jazz, Blues & R&B

Join the John Proulx Trio featuring Paul Keller and Ralph Tope, for an evening celebrating the tunes of Nat King Cole! 8pm. $10-$30

15 friday

20 wednesday

Hullabaloo - Mark’s Carts Food Cart Courtyard

Enjoy a performance by this high-energy funk-jazz-ska band. 7pm. Free

16 saturday Rock, Pop & Hip-Hop Iggy Shevak - Blind Pig

With Dylan-esque vocals, Iggy delivers gritty thoughtful tunes. 9:30pm. $10

Jazz, Blues & R&B

Chris Canas Blues Revolution - Guy Hollerin’s

The front man, Chris Canas; self proclaimed soldier for the blues, has put together a who’s who of veteran musicians to help keep the blues alive in the hearts of all music lovers. The C2B Revolution has a well blended set of classic covers and funky smooth originals that keep the audience jumping and the party going. 8pm. $5 Visit our NEW website www.ecurrent.com for more events!

23 saturday Acoustic, Folk & Ethnic

Orpheum Bell & Eastern Blok - The Ark

Tonight’s show features a pair of Midwestern acts that make music rooted in the distant past, yet totally innovative. Innovation is the musical mantra for the Chicago world fusion jazz ensemble Eastern Blok. Ann Arbor’s own Orpheum Bell came together as its members were combing through country and folk rhythms, instrumental waltzes, and Gypsy melodies. 8pm. $15

24 sunday Acoustic, Folk & Ethnic

Billy Bragg - The Ark

His songs, halfway between folk and punk, are full of passion, anger, and wit, and he’s been called a “one-man

Clash.” Now he’s back with a new tribute for the 100th anniversary of Woody Guthrie’s birth, with a two-part show including acoustic Woody Guthrie songs and reflections on the story behind them, with a full-on Billy Bragg set to close out the show. 7:30pm. $35

25 monday Acoustic, Folk & Ethnic

Annie Gallup & Hat Check Girl - The Ark

Tonight’s concert will include a solo set by Annie Gallup herself, and then a set by Hat Check Girl, Annie’s new project with New York songwriter and soulful vocalist Peter Gallway. 8pm. $15

26 tuesday Country & Bluegrass

The Fauxgrass Quartet The Ark

The Fauxgrass Quartet’s (FQ) riveting originality has quickly landed them a prominent place in the progressive bluegrass community since their 2010 inception. With a fresh, playful, and heartfelt approach to traditional music, FQ’s performances seem to freely flow between genres with truly enjoyable instrumental communication. 8pm. FREE! Please bring a canned food donation for Food Gatherers

cont. on pg 27

John Proulx Trio Kerrytown Concert House

Enjoy a blend of jazz, blues, classic rock and original songs with the band Fringe while supporting Relay for Life! Proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society. 8pm. $5-$25

Jazz, Blues & R&B

The Great Lakes Chamber Music Festival returns to KCH for its MiniFest residency. This year’s theme, White Nights, will highlight composers of Russian and Scandinavian descent, including Stravinsky, Shostakovich, Rachmaninoff, and Tchaikovsky. This performance is supported by the Michigan Council for the Arts and Cultural Affairs and the National Endowment for the Arts. 8pm. $15-$30

music

Acoustic, Folk & Ethnic

Tish Hinojosa - The Ark

Tish Hinojosa’s music crosses borders—between cultures, languages and musical genres. Tish grew up listening to the traditional Mexican songs as well as 60’s pop and folk and infuses it all into her own work. 7:30pm. $15

22 friday Acoustic, Folk & Ethnic

Merely Miss Katie Silvio’s Organic Pizza

Miss Katie is Merely a Texan turned New Jerseyite turned Rhode Islander turned Michigander who likes to write poems and music and put them together. 7-9pm. Free

Jazz, Blues & R&B

The Dorkestra - Mark’s Carts Food Cart Courtyard

This is a diverse group of musicians who have combined their study of jazz, African, Latin, world, and funk into a unique eclectic repertoire. 7pm. Free

ecurrent.com / june 2012 25

music

The Real Spicolis

The Ferdy Mayne

The Hand in the Ocean

perspective: rock

The Juliets

Our own fests by Jeff Milo

Don’t get me wrong — I love local music. I’m all about it. I know, all too well, that I needn’t hem and haw, all anxious and longingly, over the fact that Festivals, audaciously gargantuan festivals, indeed, requiring that capital F, are happening more than a thousand miles away: gold-filled pots at the end of a thousand-mile airplane flight’s rainbow, Radiohead-rainbows shining on ostensibly precious treasures like a Beach Boys reunion – a hundred bands down there in Tennessee for the sanctified Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival. But any jaded cynic (as I can be, on certain mornings) can go down that jumbo-June-fair’s line-up and easily comfort oneself for missing-out and staying-in, up here in the mitten: Bon Iver’s new trip isn’t as pure, or intriguing as his For Emma days, The Red Hot Chili Peppers haven’t proven they can matter without John Frusciante, Skrillex is polarizing, fun. has surged too deeply, too swiftly, into the fickle folds of the mainstream and I’m sick of that Foster the People single. Then again, there’ll be two exceptional reps of Michigan-bred talent down in Tennessee: Detroit groups like eclectic EmCee Danny Brown and dulcet dream pop duo Dale Earnhardt Jr Jr. And there’s plenty (Black Star, War On Drugs, tUnE-yArDs, Reggie Watts) that I would love love love to get to see and hear… But, as you might have expected, the refrain of my rant is: there will still be plenty to see and hear, this summer, in Ann Arbor. Forget Bonnaroo — a company of local cats are colluding an admirable undermining of those unwieldy cash-cow Fests, with their own revue of rock-n-roll variants - YPSIARBOROO 2012 – punctually planned for the same weekend, in case you’re particularly downin-the-dumps over missing out on any big summertime musical-thrummed camp outs. You’ll get sweaty smacks of the new spacey, wavy punk sound: The Real Spicolis, Bone Dust, Mud Bugs…

june

2012 / ecurrent.com

psychedelic-tinged folk trips: The Ferdy Mayne, Runeship of the Rhyme Traveler, The Vagrant Symphony… blusier, boogie-stomping twangs: Trembling Earth… Pure-pensive folk trips and neo-country pop, dreamy/drifty, eclectics: The Hand in the Ocean, Gun Lake, Match By Match, Steve Smalls & the Gang, The Bowling Green…pop/rock-leaning baroque-sensibilities: The Juliets…and, sometimes all of the above: Patrick Elkins. All in one night, at the Blind Pig, June.

Moving outdoors

The Ann Arbor Summer Festival (annarborsummerfestival.org), the 29th annual local arts festival running from June 15 through July 8, offers three weeks of engaging entertainment, from music, to movies, to comedy, to cuisines, to dancing and various other family-friendly interactive programs/presentations. Top of the Park is typically where you’ll find your local music fare — often the folk/rock-leaning types – and it can be a sweet, soothing way to spend an early summer evening — on Washington Street near Fletcher access to refreshing facilities offering fine local brews (Arbor Brewing Co.). This year Theo Katzman, The Infamous Stringdusters, Chris Bathgate and The Macpodz play, among many others. I love local music, as I said. I’m sure the coalescing rush of thousands of breathless head-bangers and sanddancers under bright lights and swooning to booming amps surging Radiohead ballads can feel life changing. But one can gain nuanced perspective, perspective otherwise lost in the funnel-clouds of biggie Fests, when you’re five feet away from passionate performers (who are also your neighbors) and, subsequently, can then talk to them after their sets. Tell me about this song, or that one…what inspires you? Often, what inspires me is local music. That’s why, each summer, I stay.

Rufus Wainwright Power Center / June 30

Hallelujah! Rufus Wainwright returns to town as part of the Ann Arbor Summer Festival. If you love the gaudy, the glitzy, the comically absurd and the wonderfully musical, you’ll be there. Wainwright, a songwriter for whom the phrase genre-bending might have been invented, is the son of famed folkies Loudon Wainwright III and Kate McGarrigle. His music shows their influences, as well as that of big band jazz, rock, pop—all of it displaying the depth of his immersion in those styles and many others. His stage show incorporates plenty of comic moments, whimsical theatrical effects and outlandish costumes. $30 - $50. 8pm. 121 Fletcher St. 734- 764-2538. www.annarborsummerfestival.org —SS

29 friday Rock, Pop & Hip-Hop

Ted J. Reed & The Serious Moonlight - Mark’s Carts Food Cart Courtyard

Ted J. Reed & The Serious Moonlight plays loungedamaged music. His original songs blend the influences of lounge, swing, rockabilly, jazz and blues. 7pm. Free

music

cont. from pg 25 Country & Bluegrass

Black Jake & The Carnies Woodruff’s The Ypsilanti septet’s unique blend of Americana, Bluegrass and punk (dubbed “Crabgrass”) sets a raucous pace for original songs about loup-garous and banjo-pickin’ demoniacs. 10pm. $7

30 saturday Country & Bluegrass

RFD Boys & Friends The Ark

Musician, physician, farmer, friend to The Ark and countless others, Richard “Dick” Dieterle took his final leave on February 28, 2012 following an honorable battle with cancer. His last, and proudest, contribution to the art form was an instrumental bluegrass CD of his own compositions, which he

completed weeks before his death, being released this evening with the RFD Boys and friends on hand to celebrate the album and Dick’s memory. 8pm. $15-$25

Classical & Spiritual

Modern Harp Quartet Kerrytown Concert House

The Modern Harp Quartet (MHQ) is comprised of alums from the harp studios of Cass Tech, Wayne State University and the University of Michigan. The aim of the MHQ is to promote the modern harp as a versatile instrument, through performances and workshops. 8pm. $5-$25 Visit our NEW website www.ecurrent.com for more events!

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music

perspective: jazz

From left to right: Esperanza Spalding, Al Green and Delfeayo Marsalis

Festive summer scene means fun for all

by Marc S. Taras As the summer months approach in Ann Arbor, the concert and club scene heats up with the temperature. The free Top of the Park events associated with the Ann Arbor Summer Festival provide great communal opportunities for fans of jazz and all other kinds of music. This year is as packed as ever, so let's get right to it!

Summer Fest and Top of The Park

Lots of the Summer Fest shows will hold appeal for jazz fans. The legendary soul singer Al Green will send 'em at Hill Auditorium Saturday, June 16 at 8pm. This guy is as deep as can be! Acclaimed bassist, singer and bandleader Esperanza Spalding brings her Radio Music Society to the Power Center Thursday, June 21 at 8 pm. If you caught her recent appearance on The Daily Show, you know what a remarkable ensemble this is! Modern soulful jazz sounds will be the “order of the night.” Kaleidoscopic fun! Pop star Nellie McKay will perform cool jazz standards and quirky originals at the Power Center Wednesday, June 27 at 8pm. The outdoor Top of The Park events on the Ingalls Mall start with musical acts at 6:30pm. A free movie showing follows at dusk each night. Heavy-hitting blues diva Lady Sunshine & the X Band appear Saturday, June 16 at 9 pm. The Sun Messengers began honoring the music of Sun Ra and continue along the leading edge of horn-driven funk, jazz and soul. They will be at TOP Saturday, June 23 at 9 pm. Now-generation hipsters the Macpodz will shake your world Friday, June 29 at 9pm. Great salsa sounds will be served up by the wonderful Orquesta Sensacional Sunday, June 30 at 9pm. World-class blues duo Peter “Madcat” Ruth and Sheri Kane perform Sunday, July 1. Fans of Latin jazz should mark their calendars for a rhythmic tag team Wednesday, July 4. You will feel your feet liberated by Tumbao Bravo at 6:30pm and Los Gatos at 8 pm. The TOP events wrap up in fine style with George Bedard and the Kingpins Sunday, July 8 at 8pm. These guys throw down jazz, blues, rockabilly, country and even film music. You haven’t lived ‘til you’ve checked out their dramatic reading of “The Good, The Bad and the Ugly”! Yee-haw!

Aboard the Ark

Blues guitarist John Primer returns to the Ark Monday, June 4 at 8pm. Sultry singer-songwriter Rickie Lee

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Jones is slated to bring her jazz inflections aboard the Ark Saturday, June 9 at 8pm. Acclaimed bassist Victor Wooten came to the attention of the world with Bela Fleck & the Flecktones. He is possessed of terrific technique with nods toward James Brown, Jaco Pastorius and Bootsy Collins. This top drawer “bottom feeder” plays the Ark Monday, July 2 at 8 pm. Laser-beam guitarist Bill Frisell plays the music of John Lennon with Tony Scherr, Greg Leisz and Kenny Wollesen. They will bring all the love you need to the Ark Tuesday, July 3 at 8pm. Michigan native blues singer Janiva Magness is emerging as a full force talent. She will tear the playhouse down Saturday, July 7 at 8pm.

Kerrytown Concert House

The Moutin Reunion Quartet with brothers Francois (bass) and Louis (drums) Moutin and Detroit’s native saxophone son Rick Margitza brings jazz with a Parisian flair to KCH Saturday, June 9 at 8 p.m. Pianist Ellen Rowe brings in Paul Keller and Pete Siers for an All About the Trio gig Sunday, June 10 at 2 pm. Pianistsinger John Proulx works out on the Nat King Cole book of tunes Tuesday, June 19 at 8 pm. He'll be joined by bassist Keller and guitarist Ralph Tope in a tone-parallel to the classic King Cole Trio lineup. More Euro-jazz vibes will be provided by Italian violinist Luca Ciarla Thursday, June 28 at 8pm. His quartet includes accordion, bass and percussion, playing Mediterranean Jazz styling. Trombone brother Delfeayo Marsalis brings a group (members TBA) Sunday, June 24 at 7 pm. Another Italian native, guitarist Michele Ramo brings a group of friends including singer Heidi Hepler and bassist Ralphe Armstrong to KCH Saturday, July 14 at 8 pm. Manner Effect features emerging NYC talent including singer Sarah Elizabeth Charles and sax cat Caleb Curtis. They hit Sunday, July 22 at 7 p.m. Ann Arbor’s Afro-Cuban jazz band Tumbao Bravo play KCH Saturday, July 28 at 8 pm. Great chance to see the band in an intimate situation. These guys swing hard! And speaking of swinging...sophisticated sax cat with a big warm tone Ben Jansson brings a quartet with pianist Michael Karloff, bassist Kurt Krahnke and drummer Sean Dobbins. They will light up your life Tuesday, July 31 at 8pm. Expect strong soulful jazz and delightfully unabashed romanticism! That’s all for this round! See you on the square!

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film

Kicking a cliche

The story of the maniac genius rock-star isn't a new one — in real life or fiction. But the Sundance Selection I Am Not a Hipster — which screens at the Michigan Theater on June 2 as part of Cinetopia, a four day, first-time festival screening more than 30 films from May 31 - June 3 — breaks down some barriers. Rather than completely revolving around the music, the film focuses on the hardships (including the death of his mother) and the healing a young, tortured artist, Brook, goes through in his personal life. $15. 9:30pm. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8463. www.michtheater.org —SR

1 friday Cinetopia, a new International Film Festival $15 per film; $120 for 10. 2pm. Downtown. www.michtheater.org/ cinetopia First of three days of top-quality indie films at the Michigan Theater — Jig (2pm), The Ambassador (4:30pm), The Freshman (7pm), Louder Than Love (9:30pm), The Stewardess in 3D (11:59pm); The State Theater — Elena (2pm), Bran Nue Dae (4:30pm), Your Sister’s Sister (7pm), Bonnie and Clyde (9:30pm), Juan of the Dead (11:59pm); Angell Hall — Bestiaire (5pm), Headhinters (8pm).

2 saturday Cinetopia, a new International Film Festival

$15 per film; $120 for 10. 11am. Downtown. www.michtheater.org/ cinetopia Second of three days of top-quality indie films at the Michigan Theater — Hugo in 3D (11am), Harold Lloyd: Short Films, Long on Laughs (2pm), The Lie (4:30pm), The Queen of Versailles (7pm), I Am Not a Hipster (9:30), Bullhead (11:59pm); State Theater — Superman (11:30am), Missed Connections (2:30pm), 28 Hotel Rooms (4:45pm), Teddy Bear (7:15pm), The Ambassador (9:30pm), Beyond the Black Rainbow (11:59pm); Angell Hall — 5 Broken Cameras (2pm), Southern Foodways Smorgasbord (5pm), The Infidel (8pm).

3 sunday Cinetopia, a new International Film Festival $15 per film; $120 for 10. 11:30am. Downtown. www.michtheater.org/ cinetopia Last of three days of top-quality indie films at the Michigan Theater — Cane Toads in 3D (11:30am), Creature from the

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Black Lagoon in 3D (1:30pm), Safety Last! (4:30pm), Joshua Tree/1951: A Portrait of James Dean (7pm); State Theater —Hipsters (11:30am), On the Ice (2:30pm), Headhunters (5pm), Bullhead (7:30pm); Angell Hall —What’s Up Doc? (2pm), Missed Connections (4:30pm), Putin’s Kiss (7pm).

13 wednesday Polyester

Free. 9pm. Arbor Brewing Company, 114 E. Washington St. 734-213-1393. www.arborbrewing.com A satirical look into the troubles of the suburbs — and American in general — John Waters’ 1981 comedy follows a woman whose life is spinning out of control.

16 saturday Honeybee Awareness

12-3pm. Free. Whole Foods Market, 3135 Washtenaw Ave. 734-975-4500. wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/annarbor

Learn about the threats to honeybees (and how their absence would affect a large part of the food supply we depend on) in this free talk and screening. There will be samples on hand and info from visitors,

17 sunday The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

$10. 1:30 pm. Michigan Theater, 603 East Liberty St. 734-668-8463. www. michtheater.org. Clint Eastwood reprises the role of a taciturn, enigmatic loner.

Visit our new website www.ecurrent.com for more events

theater

The Vibrator Play Using satirical edge to tackle inequality by Sandor Slomovits

The Performance Network’s staging of Sarah Ruhl’s In the Next Room (or the Vibrator Play) opens on June 14 and runs through July 15. The comedy received three 2010 Tony Award nominations, including one for best play. Set in Victorian era New York, it’s about exactly what you’re thinking it is — and a whole lot more. The Network’s Artistic Director, David Wolber, and the production’s director, Suzi Regan, talk about the play.

What drew you to this play? Wolber: I’m a big fan of Ruhl’s. We produced The Clean House by her a few years ago. I keep tabs on her writing, ask for her scripts before they’re even published, and this was one I had an opportunity to read as it was running on Broadway. Regan: This play is everywhere now; it’s being done all over the country. It’s really hitting a chord. I think because it’s called In the Next Room, (or the Vibrator Play), that many are going to think it’s a chick play. But it’s not. The men and women in this play go through this incredible journey with the instrument. (Laughter) There’s a lot of tongue-in-cheek irony. Talk about that. Wolber: There is a lot of humor that you would expect, but it’s also about their lack of awareness, their lack of understanding. Even the doctor, who is treated as the expert, with the women coming to him for diagnosis and

Photo By Sean Carter

Aphrodite Nikolovski and John Seibert star in the Performance Network’s new play, In The Next Room — a clever, funny, awardwinner that shows how a little understanding goes a long way

treatment, even he doesn’t have an understanding of what exactly is going on. Regan: Women have been diagnosed with hysteria forever. We’re so complex that oftentimes it’s easier to quantify us somehow. We are mysterious creatures—we all are very mysterious—but I think because women may be a little unruly and scary and powerful, it’s easier to put us in a little box. And of course the women knew, for the most part, intuitively at least, what was going on, and that they needed to wake up. I think the play is about becoming alive, living in the moment. I think we kind of sometimes kind of numb ourselves with various distractions, whether imposed on us, or whether by choice, we numb ourselves instead of looking each other in the eye and becoming alive in that moment. And the man in the play, Dr. Givings, also has an awakening—a spiritual and sexual awakening. It’s great that it’s not just about women; although that’s the way we go in. I think the journey is for men as well as for women.

How does the journey incorporate equality and understanding? Wolber: It’s his awakening and coming to understand which I think also makes for this wonderfully rich and beautiful moment in the culmination of the play. Both men and women will come out of this play with perhaps a little more understanding of each other. ecurrent.com / june 2012 31

theater

The 39 Steps

$15, $12 Students, $9 for Mainstage patrons, $7 kids ages 6-12. 7pm. Eastern Michigan University Convocation Center, 799 North Hewitt Rd., Ypsilanti. 734-487-1220. www.emich.edu

NT: Live Frankenstein

University Musical Society and the Michigan Theater are bringing back the popular National Theatre Live series, which broadcasts live theatre productions from London to cinemas around the world. On Wednesday, June 6 and Thursday, June 7, Oscar-Winning Director Danny Boyle's take on Mary Shelly's Frankenstein will be broadcast. Actors Jonny Lee Miller and Benedict Cumberbatch alternate the roles of Dr. Frankenstein and the Creature in this thrilling and groundbreaking work. 7pm. $22. Michigan Theater, 603 East Liberty St. 734-668-8397. www.ums.org—JG

1 friday New Work Collage 2012: Taking Chances

$10. 8pm. Mix Studio Theater,130 W. Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti. 810-6230909. www.thenewtheatreproject.org

After an unexpected cancellation of the season’s highlight, The Tempest Project, The New

Theatre Project presents a special event, The New Work Collage 2012:Taking Chances, to take place of the cancelled show. New Work Collage 2012: Taking Chances will feature live performances from local musicians presenting experimental work, artists displaying artwork, live paintings, and excerpts from the now closed Tempest. Through June 3.

Eastern Michigan University Presents Broadway’s longest running comedy, The 39 Steps. It’s a riotous spoof of the well-known Alfred Hitchcock film of the same name, about the exploits of a bored-with-life playboy who unexpectedly finds himself involved in risky espionage. Through June 2.

4 monday Starkid Presents: Apocalyptour

$30-$35. 7:30 pm. Michigan Theatre, 603 East Liberty St. 734-668-8463. www.michtheater.org

Best described as an ensemble of writers, actors, directors, designers, and producers Starkid has taken the art of parody and fumblingly marched forward with it into the 21st century. Blending live performances with the internet Starkid’s original work’s have gained over 64 million views on YouTube. With an international fan-base and attention ranging from MTV to the New York Magazine this group is bringing a new name to theatre. For tickets go to ticketmaster.com

6 wednesday National Theatre Live: Frankenstein

Adults $22, Michigan Theatre members/UMS Scribers & Donars $18, Students $12. 7pm. 734-668-8463. www.michtheater,org.

Oscar-winner Danny Boyle returns to the theatre to direct the production of “Frankenstein” with Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller. Childlike in his innocence but grotesque in form, Frankenstein’s creature is placed into a unaccepted world by his horror-struck maker. Meeting cruelty wherever he goes,the Creature becomes increasingly desperate, hateful and determined to track down his creator to make a terrifying deal. Urgent concerns of scientific responsibility, parental neglect, cognitive development and the nature of good and evil are embedded within this thrilling and deeply disturbing classic gothic tale. Tickets on sale at ums.org. Through June 7.

7 thursday Corsets, Grains, & Greenways: Dancing Downtown

Ann Arbor $15, $10 Students and Seniors. 7pm. WSG Gallery, 306 S. Main St. 734-763-5461. www.umich.edu

A unique site dance performance with several community partners celebrating the layered histories of some of downtown Ann Arbor’s favorite locations.

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Taking place along a four-block route, the evening of contemporary dance features premieres by NYC guest artist Monica Bill Barnes, UK guest artist Adesola Akinleye, and resident choreographers Jessica Fogel and Robin Wilson.

14 thursday Red, White, and Tuna

$8, $12 Student and Seniors. 8pm. The Riverside Arts Center, 76 North Huron St., Ypsilanti. 734-363-3057. www.ptdproductions.com.

Our 2012 season continues with the laugh out loud comedy “Red, White and Tuna” by Jaston Williams, Joe Sears, and Ed Howard. It is a fast-paced romp through the lives, loves, politics, and gossips of the offkilter residents of Tuna, the third smallest town in Texas. over 20 quirky but loveable characters are played by two actors in this rollicking comic farce. June 14, 15, 16, 17, 21, 22, 23. All performances are at 8pm, except for Sunday, June 17, which is at 2pm Matinee.

21 thursday Story Collider: Where Science And Storytelling Combine!

Free. 7pm. Live! At PJ’s, 102 S. First St. 734-327-4265. http://aadl.org.

Brian Wecht & Company return with another edition of Story Collider-best described as “This American Life meets NOVA”! Story Collider is an evening of entertaining, personal stories about science. Presenters tell their stories about how science impacted their lives in a relaxed, and fun setting. The last story time was packed... so arrive early! For ages 21 and up.

28 thursday

tinian maestro, Mariano Riera.

Yankee Tavern

$20, $16 Student and Seniors. 8pm. Riverside Arts Center, 76 North Huron St, Ypsilanti. 734-985-0875. www. emergentarts.com

The Emergent Arts Theatre Company presents Yankee Tavern by Steven Dietz. Take one part grad thesis on conspiracy theories, add a barfly who knows them all, stir in one mysterious stranger who was there at 9/11, garnish with one frightened finance, and shake with a healthy fear of the unknown. The Emergent Arts productions will feature popular local award winning actors Larry Rusinsky and Tom Underwood, and newcomers Chris Manna and Maggie Tibus.

Visit our new website www.ecurrent.com for more events

ecurrent.com / june 2012 33

art New Exhibits

2 saturday Amazing Duct Tape Art!

$15 per student. 2pm. FLY Studio, 32. N. Washington on the corner of N. Washington and Pearl, Ypsilanti. www.flyartcenter.org

A fun class filled with a study in making art from the everyday...using duct tape! Make a stylish new purse, or a cute and functional rose that uses a pen as the stem, or even a duct-tape wallet just in time for Father’s Day! The choice is yours, and the possibilities are endless. This class is best suited for students ages 8 and up. Registration is required, as class size is limited.

Illustrating Science: From Anatomy to Zoology Free. Downtown Library, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4265. www.

aadl.org. Science helps us understand our world, but art helps us understand science. This exhibit features illustrations and models from a wide range of scientific fields. From insects to ink, dinosaurs to digital imaging, art and science are more closely linked than you might have thought! Located in the Multipurpose room & lower level display cases. Open Monday 10 am-9 pm, Tuesday-Friday 9 am-9 pm, Saturday 9 am-6 pm, and Sunday noon-6pm.

june

Seaside Carnival: Paintings by Pat Cardiff

Free. Downtown Library, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4265. www.aadl.org.

This exhibit consists of 25 oil paintings on canvas or board. The purpose of the paintings is to share a strange and wonderful visual experience of an evening spent in an empty, oldtime seaside carnival that Pat visited in the Maryland resort town of Ocean city. Located on the third floor walls. Open Monday 10 am-9 pm, TuesdayFriday 9 am-9pm, Saturday 9 am -6 pm, and Sunday noon-6 pm.

8 friday Nature As Spirit

Free. 6-9pm. Gallery Project, 215 South Fourth Ave. 734-997-7012. www.thegalleryproject.com.

A multimedia exhibit in which over 20 locals, regional and national artists explore nature as a source of spirituality in contemporary life. Its mission is to provide a venue for contemporary art that is culturally aware, individualistic, courageous, and thought provoking.

9 saturday All the Pretty Little Horses $5/student. 2pm. FLY Studio, 32. N. Washington on the corner of N. Washington and Pearl. www.flyartcenter.org

Make a jointed paper-doll pony! Classes will take place at the FLY Studio, located in downtown Ypsilanti at 32 N. Washington on the corner of

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Emotional art

Exploring the emotional layers of people and animals, Marcia Polenberg's sculpture art is expressive, as she uses abstract coloring to breathe life into her work. The long-time art professor will show some of her new work in the exhibition The

Birthday Party - An Installation with Invited Guests at the Clay Gallery from 7-9pm on

Friday, June 1. The gallery will also hold an Art's Talk, where Polenberg leads a forum about the exhibition, at 3pm on Sunday, June 10. 335 S. Main St. 734-662-7927. www.claygallery.org. —SR

Pearl (the Dansen Building). Using the back entrance, which can be accessed from the parking lot off of Huron, the new FLY Studio is right at the top of the stairs in Suite 5.

17 sunday Redshift: Images from the Infrared Spectrum by Gale Nobes Free. Malletts Creek Branch, 3090 E. Eisenhower Parkway. 734-327-4265. www.aadl.org

This exhibit consists of 25 black & white infrared photographs and is a unique

nature photography exhibit by Gale Nobes, Michigan artist, and former chairman of the Muskegon River Watershed Council. Nobes’ black and white infrared photography creates images that are at once surreal and evocative of the beauty of the natural world. Open Monday 10 am-9 pm, Tuesday-Friday 9 am-9 pm, Saturday 9 am-6 pm, and Sunday noon-6pm

Visit our new website www.ecurrent.com for more events

ecurrent.com / june 2012 35

everything else 1 friday

3 sunday

2012 U-M Nichols Arboretum Peony Festival

Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fly Fishing Class

10am-4:30pm. Nichols Arboretum, 1600 Washington Heights. 734-6477600. www.lsa.umich.edu/mbg

Celebrate the 90th anniversary of the Nichols Arboretum Peony Garden, the largest collection of antique and heirloom peonies in North America. The festival features staff and self-guided tours, cut-flower displays in the Reader Center, peony-inspired artwork and more. Or just come out to see 10,000 blossoms. Through June 5.

2 saturday 2012 Chelsea Garden Walk

10am-4pm. $10. Downtown, M-52/ Main St., Chelsea. 734-475-3539. www.chelseagardenclub.com

There will be eight unique gardens in the Chelsea area to enjoy, explore and inspire. Proceeds from the garden walk support civic beautification, grants for community projects and scholarships.

9am-12pm. Gallup Park, 3000 Fuller Rd. 734-769-5123. www.hrwc.org

Mike Mouradian of Ann Arbor Trout Unlimited (AATU) will teach casting, knot tying, fly identification and entomology with experienced instructors from AATU. Rods, flies, fly fishing instruction book and food for snacking are provided. Each fly fishing class limited to 15 participants, registration is required. Due to demand thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s another class scheduled Sunday, June 3, 9am-12pm.

Type Rider

3-5pm. Nicolaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Books, 2513 Jackson Ave. 6-8pm. Crazy Wisdom Bookstore & Tea Room, 114 South Main St. www.type-rider.com

Poet and cycling enthusiast Maya Stein is rolling through A2 with her typewriter for her latest project where people can contribute their own musings/thoughts/stories as she makes her way to Milwaukee. She plans on riding 40 miles a day for 40 days and will be stopping at Nicolaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and Crazy Wisdom as apart of her itinerary. Stop by, contribute your story and learn about the magic of typewriters from Maya.

8 friday 12th Annual Green Fair 6-9pm. Main Street, Downtown Ann Arbor. 734-794-6161. www.a2gov.org/green

The City of Ann Arbor Mayorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office is hosting the 12th annual Green Fair to celebrate the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s environmental leadership as exhibited by citizens, nonprofits, government, and businesses. Ann Arborâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Downtown Main Street will be closed to regular automotive traffic, but will be open for walkers and displays of environmental information, â&#x20AC;&#x153;greenâ&#x20AC;? products, bicycle events, live music, and general enjoyment of the urban outdoor environment.

9 saturday Mission Zero Fest

Sat.,10am-6pm;Sun. 11am-4pm. Water Hill, 700 Block of Fountain St. www. missionzerofest.org

Mission Zero Fest is a unique event unlike anything thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been seen before -- itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s part sustainability symposium, part environmental exhibition, part green home tour, and part neighborhood block party. While speakers and workshops exhibit the how and why of sustainability, organizations will exhibit an array of green products and services for living

a healthier, more comfortable life with a lighter footprint. Food vendors will also be on board to present local culinary favorites to attendees.

10 sunday Grillinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; for Food Gatherers 2012

3-8pm. Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds, 5055 Ann Arbor Saline Rd. 734-761-2796. www.foodgatherers.org

Proceeds from Grillinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; enable Food Gatherers to distribute more than 5 million pounds of food annually to 150 non-profit programs serving people in need. There will be delicious and healthy grilled food, a silent auction and music by Back Forty, The Appleseed Collective and George Bedard and the Kingpins.

14 thursday Take a Hike!

7-8:30pm. Leslie Science & Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-327-4200. www.aadl.org

A naturalist from Natural Area Preservation (City of Ann Arbor) leads a nature walk in this 34acre woodland on Ann Arborâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s north side. Learn about native plants and trees, invasive plants, ecological restoration, and lots more.

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everything else 18 monday

Beneath the Rim: Stories And Pictures From Inside The Grand Canyon 7-8:30pm. Downtown Library, 343 South Fifth Ave. 734-327-4555. www.aadl.org

Sounds & Sights

Downtown Chelsea / Thursdays, June 7-August 16

Once again the city of Chelsea is opening up this summer for Michigan’s premier weekly festival, Sounds and Sights. From June until August, the public can enjoy the sounds of some of the region’s best musicians while taking in the sights of beautiful downtown Chelsea. Artists will be performing at separate staged areas along with other activities like children’s entertainers, a juried sculpture walk, outdoor movies and plenty of great food and retail options from local shops and restaurants. The stellar music lineup spans from bluegrass to rock and features popular acts like Dragon Wagon, Isosceles, Dave Boutette and more! The highlight of the summer season is the Sounds & Sights Festival on July 26-28, which will encapsulate the entire Thursday series in one fun weekend. (Look for more details on the festival in Current’s July issue.) For a schedule of activities and music visit the website or check the Chelsea Festivals Facebook page. 6:30-8:30pm. Downtown Chelsea. 734-433-2787. www.chelseafestivals.com—JG

Millions of people visit Grand Canyon National Park each year to walk along the rims and peer over the edges. Less than one percent, however, head down one of the many trails to experience the vast wilderness that the Park contains. Come for a slide show and reading by Western writer and Canyon hiker Rick Kempa, that will take the audience on that journey.

20 wednesday

WEMU’s Big City Blues Cruise will be on hand. There is also a silent auction.

27 wednesday Stargazing

8pm-10pm. Leslie Science & Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-327-4200. www.aadl.org

Bring your telescope and meet in front of the Nature House to view the night sky with the University Lowbrow Astronomers and earn points for the 2012 Summer Game! The Lowbrow Astronomers will bring several telescopes to share, or check out a telescope from AADL’s new telescope collection before the event.

28 thursday

R.E.S.P.E.C.T. The Ann Arbor Benefit for Scott Morgan

Meet Author Paul Vachon

Legendary Ann Arbor music icon, and former rocker for the beloved Michigan garage band The Rationals, Scott Morgan has fallen ill and his friends and family in the community are throwing a benefit for him. Performing at the event are The Vibratron, George Bedard & the Kingpins, “The Michigan All Star Band” featuring several well known MI musicians. MC Joe Tiboni the host of the 89.1

Local author Paul Vachon, a freelance writer specializing in local Michigan history, historical preservation and popular culture, will be here to discuss his book ‘Moon Michigan’s Upper Peninsula’. Although Paul Vachon was born and raised in the Detroit area, he’s always been aware of the fact that Michigan consists of two peninsulas—different in many ways but both integral parts of the Great Lake State.

8pm-2am. $10. The Necto, 516 East Liberty St.

7pm. Nicola’s Books, 2513 Jackson Ave. 734-662-0600. www.nicolasbooks.com

ecurrent.com / june 2012 37

june

2012 / ecurrent.com

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Meet the Midwives! An open forum to ask questions about the midwives at New Moon Midwifery, home birth, waterbirth, doula support or options in childbirth. 6:30-7:30pm at the Center for Childbearing Year ~ 722 Brooks St., Ann Arbor, MI 48103. Free. For more info call 734-424-0220 or www.newmoonmidwifery.com

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Homebirth Circles, A social gathering and discussion group for families who are considering homebirth, planning a homebirth or have birthed at home. Sponsored by the Midwives at New Moon Midwifery. 7:308:30pm at the Center for the Childbearing Year ~ 722 Brooks St., Ann Arbor, MI 48103. Free. For more info call 734-424-0220 or www.newmoonmidwifery.com

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