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contents
february 2015 vol. 25 / no.2
12 Tmaz Taqueria
By Joe Saul & Lisa Leutheuser
19 music interview
Photo by Vera Palsdottir
A Conversation with Asgeir By Brandon Bye
2015 Best of 7 Washtenaw County Readers Choice Ballot
Permanent Markers? 9
Tattoos and removal By Ali Shapiro
music feature 17
Vulpeck‘s got groove By Jeff Milo
t n e r r cu exclusives online
n for d sectio o fo r u ing. out o Check s on local din ip t and
recipes
22 film feature
The staying power of The Michigan and State Theaters By Nan Bauer
24 theater feature Steel Magnolias on stage By Sandor Slomovits
31art feature
The Art of Taxidermy By Brandon Bye
33 Point of View
NEWRE ! TU FEA
U-M Museum of Natural History Passenger Pigeons By Stephanie Carpenter
Weekl
Music w y What’s U ri is corre ter Jeff Milo is p ct. Tun on the e in to What’s ecurren scene, and h Up colu is beat t.com fo mn news in r Mil Washte —a curation of conc o’s Weekly naw C ounty C erts an d music ounty.
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get more online ECURRENT.COM ecurrent.com / february 2015 3
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Adams Street Publishing Co. What’s your strategy for staying warm?
Publisher/Editor in Chief
Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledocitypaper.com) Layers and a little vodka
Co-publisher/Chief Financial Officer Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@toledocitypaper.com) thoughts of spring
Editorial
Assignment Editor: Brandon Bye (brandon@adamsstreetpublishing.com) sauna Staff Writer: Rose Carver (rose@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Wearing full body long johns Calendar Editors: Marisa Rubin (mrubin@adamsstreetpublishing.com) bubble baths Catherine Bohr (calendar@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Fuzzy blankets and big sweaters Digital Media Specialist: Saul Jacobs (saul@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Stoli Contributing Writers: Ali Shapiro, Joe Saul and Lisa Leutheuser, Jeff Milo, Brandon Bye, Nan Bauer, Sandor Slomovits, Louis Meldman, Stephanie Carpenter
Art/Production
Production Manager: Brittney Koehl (adsin@adamsstretpublishing.com) Blankets, slippers, more blankets
^ Mighty Good’s New Spot Mighty Good Coffee Roasting Company has long been providing Ann Arborites with their caffeine fix on Main Street. Now, tapping into the via facebook student market, they have expanded to S. University. Taking over the space recently vacated by Glassbox Coffee & Juice, Mighty Good will refill S. University Ave’s empty mugs. Open 7am-5pm. 1335 S. University Ave. 734-222-4514. ^ Lucky’s Market Coming to Burns Park At the former Stadium Blvd. Kroger location, Lucky’s Market will open later this month. The Colorado-based natural foods grocery store chain was founded with the idea of offering prepared foods with simple recipes and fresh ingredients. Lucky’s Market, 1919 S. Industrial Hwy. 303-530-0785. ^ Vegan Lunch Room Expands After one year in business, the vegan restaurant, The Lunch Room, has opened a second location. The new spot features breakfast and lunch hours six days per week, with plans to expand to dinner hours. Monday through Friday, 11am-3pm and Saturday from 8am-3pm. The Lunch Room, 2200 Fuller Ct. 734-224-8859.
Senior Designer: Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Staying in Graphic Design: Imani Latief (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Hoodies and long johns Contributing Designer: Stephanie Austin WOOL
Advertising
Regional Sales Manager: Aubrey Hornsby (ahornsby@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Florida or Whiskey Sales Manager: Connie Peters (connie@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Scarf and comfy sweats Classifieds: Catherine Bohr (classifieds@toledocitypaper.com)
Administration Accounting: Robin Armstrong
(rarmstrong@toledocitypaper.com) Continuously running my space heater with blankets & hot tea
© 2015 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 $30 a year. Distributed throughout Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti and neighboring communities. Also publishers of:
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Follow us on Facebook and Twittertwitter.com/ecurrent
^ Great Lakes Chocolate & Coffee Company Closes The one-stop-shop for all of your sweet and caffeinated needs closed last month. ^ Blue Lion Fitness Want to work out like a U-M Football Player? Now you can. Former Michigan Wolverine Ryan Van Bergen begins his new role as co-owner and head via facebook fitness coach at Blue Lion Fitness. For a $100 per month membership, the gym will offer classes that imitate the atmosphere of the strength and conditioning training of the Michigan football team, expected to open to the public this spring. 2405 W. Stadium Blvd. ^ Jazzy Veggie Changes Genre Vegetarian restaurant Jazzy Veggie is under new management and has changed their entire look and menu—it’s no longer vegetarian. It even operates under a new name. “Back to the Roots Bistro” is under consideration, but nothing has been carved in stone or cast in neon at print time. After their opening this month, the new menu will consist of healthified comfort foods: french fries, pizza, burgers. 108 S. Main St. 734-222-0203. ecurrent.com / february 2015 5
green corner
fyi
Tapping Trees
Photo courtesy of Zingerman’s
Cooking class with Chef Ortega in Tuscany
Zingerman’s Food Tours In the foodie adventure of a lifetime, Hungary, Spain, Tuscany, and Traverse City are open for exploration through Zingerman’s immersive tour. Among other regional comestibles, the cheeses, olive oils, and wines of Spain and Tuscany, and the breads, pastries, and cured meats of Hungary, will accompany 15 food adventurers. Traverse City may not feel as exotic as the other destinations, but with fresh fish, foraged mushrooms, cherries, and more, the area is well known to foodies everywhere. 2015 tour dates for Hungary: May 18-28 (price: $6,000), Spain: Sept. 26-Oct. 6. ($6,500), Tuscany: Oct. 3-12 ($6,500), and Traverse City/Leelanau Peninsula: May 29-31 ($1,400). Book early. zingermansfoodtours.com. 888-316-2736. —RC
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Hudson Mills Metroparks offers up a journey into that sap you pour on your flapjack. Come along for a “Journey to the Sugary Bush” tour, an immersive demonstration into the process of making maple syrup. Starting in late February, join every Saturday for an interactive program. Participants learn how to tap trees, collect sap, and boil it into maple syrup. Saturday, February 22 — March 22. 10am, 11am, and noon. $3/child, and $5/adult. Preregistration is required. Hudson Mills Metropark Activity Center, 8801 North Territorial Rd., Dexter. 734-426-8211. —RC
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Continued on pg. 8 ecurrent.com / february 2015 7
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ood
ling G e e F , d o o ing G
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ircut Get A Ha Place To ist e Therap Massag
Day Spa incare Facial/ Sk nis Play Ten Place To ilates b Yoga/ P letic Clu nter / Ath e C ss e n Fit iner Best Tra ewear Cool Ey dio cing Stu oo/ Pier Best Tatt Salon Tanning
Dining And Drinking
Street
New A
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Music
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Music
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DJ/ El ectro nica Artist Folk/ Coun try A r tist HipHo p Art ist Jazz/ Blues Artist Rock Band Open Mic V enue Place To See Live M Danc usic e Club PickUp Bar
Entertainment
New Restaurant
Annual Event
Chinese Restaurant
Dance Party
Japanese Restaurant
Karaoke spot
Korean Restaurant
PreGame Hangout
Thai Restaurant
Sports Bar
Greek Restaurant
LGTBQ Bar
Italian Restaurant
Bowling Alley
Middle Eastern Restaurant
Place For a 21st Birthday
Mexican Restaurant Local Farm
Live Theater Venue
Deli
Theater Troupe
Fine Dining
Dance Company
Coffee Shop
Filmmaker
Breakfast Place
Movie Theater
Diner Brewpub or Microbrewery Food Cart After Hours Delivery Best Desert
Place To Buy & See Local Art Fine Art Photographer
Place To Hear Spoken Word
Best Local Beer
Currenter
Sculptor
Writ Current olumn Story/ C overed Current Hasn’t C Current a e Id y r Sto I’d Like tegory” oice” Ca Ch s r e d “Rea xt year To See ne
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Street Artist
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feature
DR. BURKE DESCRIBES HIS PROCEDURE WITH A CLIENT
the age of lasers Tattoos and regretsotinos by Pat Record By Ali Shapiro Ph
ngelina Jolie covered Billy Bob with geographical coordinates. Melanie Griffith had Antonio erased, leaving only the outline of a heart. Johnny Depp changed Winona Forever to Wino Forever (“which is actually a bit more accurate,” Depp told Playboy in 2004). ’ve never inked anyone’s name into my skin, but I do have plenty of tattoos (not to mention plenty of regrets, only some of which are tattoo-related). Still, I’ve always considered tattoo removal to be kind of, well, cheating— which is also to say, I’ve never really considered it, despite the tramp stamp I got as a teenager and a series of terrible decisions I made in Fiji. But with Valentine’s Day around the corner, I’ve found myself wondering about the process behind all those faded names and empty hearts, and about its implications for the craft and culture of tattooing. Without the specter of permanence, do tattoos lose their power? What’s the meaning of “forever” if we can always change our minds? For Dr. Robert Burke, founder and director of the Michigan Center for Cosmetic Surgery, the conundra associated with tattoo removal are more physical than philosophical. A case in point: Dr. Burke has a friend, “a world expert on ink,” who owns a chain of shops that offer both tattooing and tattoo removal. As a tattooee, I’m skeptical. But from a dermatological perspective, I learn, cont. on page 10
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feature
Quanta Plus C laser takes aim
cont. from page 9
there is much to be gained from a partnership between the guys in charge of putting the ink on your skin and the guys in charge of lasering it off. The issue, Dr. Burke explains, is that many ink blends are proprietary, so the exact composition of a certain color is often inscrutable to the laser guys. This matters because the efficacy of the removal process is greatly increased by targeting individual chromophores—“Because of physics,” Dr. Burke adds helpfully, having accurately assessed my level of scientific understanding. The better lasers have multiple wavelengths, each calibrated to zap a particular chromatic spectrum. Dr. Burke speaks, with near-religious reverence, of the Quanta Plus C, which according to him is “the best laser in the world”—a claim corroborated on the QuantaUSA website, which brags that the laser has also been used to restore “countless frescoes, bronzes, monuments and statues” in such venerable institutions as the Vatican Museum; NASA is apparently taking a Quanta Plus C to Mars. Here on earth, Dr. Burke uses the Quanta Plus C for its more quotidian purposes, such as removing small tree frogs from the ankles of the no longer young. He shows me some videos on his iPhone, narrating: “This red light is the aiming beam…the three prongs keep the laser at the right distance…that’s a cooling device, to keep the patient comfortable…okay, here we go…” The laser comes to life, beeping and ticking over the black outline of the tree frog. I’m amazed by how quickly the black ink dulls to pencil-gray; the orange body of the frog, immune to this wavelength, remains untouched. “It’s like Photoshop!” I exclaim. Dr. Burke chuckles. On screen, his disembodied hands swap the wrong laser for the right one, and the orange obediently fades.
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feature Dr. Burke’s delight in his work is contagious, and I find myself rooting for the removal. Maybe mistakes can be undone, no matter how much time has passed, no matter how deep the scar. Maybe all it takes is finding the right laser—precision-targeting regrets with a skilled psychoanalyst, instead of, say, binge drinking and denial. I wonder aloud if removing tattoos, like getting them, is considered addictive. “Well, a lot of clients end up having other procedures done,” Dr. Burke responds thoughtfully. “That’s what they talk to me about while we’re doing tattoo treatment. They say, I just had a child, I want to get my body back, what can I do? Or they say, I’ve got this scar here, or…” Is tattoo removal a corrective procedure, in roughly the same category as other cosmetic surgeries? Is there a difference between adding and subtracting, breast augmentation and liposuction, getting a tattoo and getting one removed? Is the Quanta Plus C a tool of restoration or destruction? Is Dr. Burke returning the body to its original pure-skinned splendor, or scrubbing Michelangelo off the Sistine Chapel? I’ve asked similar questions of less visible regrets, the ones whose names are only figuratively tattooed on my skin. Healing is restorative, additive, an augmentation. But forgetting is destructive, a loss. Does one always require the other? In Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet play a pair of estranged lovers who pay to have their memories of each other erased by a company called Lacuna, Inc. Spoiler alert: they regret this decision, and spend most of the movie trying to reverse it. Oh, and they end up back together anyway, basically agreeing to do the whole thing over again, heartache and all. There is no Lacuna, Inc, at least not yet. Dr. Burke can’t erase the brain, only the body. But the body is no ordinary canvas. It changes, ages, and eventually dies. No idea, no image, no decision—nothing in the brain outlasts the body, not even regret. Some fear of death is universal to our species, but perhaps specific to American culture is our even greater fear of getting old. If the associated industries are any indication, this is a strongly visual fear; we are rabid consumers of cosmetics, surgeries, clothing lines and diets that offer no biological benefits except to make us look younger, to regress the visual body and prolong the illusion of youth. Tattoos threaten to derail these efforts to regress, on the one hand because they change and on the other
because they don’t. They age with the body, fading and stretching and going out of fashion. And they also stay the same, inalterable, indelible, perhaps concealed but rarely completely erased. Tattoos offer a record of the past, rendering it visible, if only a stagnant record of past-ness, in the present. “All photographs are memento mori,” writes Susan Sontag in her famous essay on another visual medium. “To take a photograph is to participate in another person’s (or thing’s) mortality, vulnerability, mutability. Precisely by slicing out this moment and freezing it, all photographs testify to time’s relentless melt.” Tattoos, like photographs, send mixed signals about permanence and impermanence: do our choices matter because we have to live with them forever? Or does nothing matter, because “forever” is only as long as we live? Before I leave his office, Dr. Burke tells me about a new tattoo ink that can supposedly be removed in a single laser session. “But the tattoo artists that I know won’t use it,” he adds with a shrug. “Yeah, you hear that stuff all the time,” says Jeff Zuck, owner of Name Brand Tattoo, “I mean, there’s all kind of crazy things. Tattoos that would somehow react to electromagnetism—so you could shift the particles, change their shape and color. So you could have a dragon today, a tiger tomorrow.” He pauses, then echoes Dr. Burke’s shrug. “But I really don’t care anything about it,” Zuck says, “Because I’m a tattooer. And tattoo means to mark the skin. It’s a permanent mark. And to move away from that…it’s moving away from the original idea of what a tattoo is. It’s to mark a point in time. So if we give ourselves an out…” He trails off, then starts again: “Everything you do defines you,” he says, “And you should live with that. Whatever it is.” I’m with Zuck: whatever it is, I want to live with it, because that’s what it means to live. Perhaps, like Sontag’s photographs, tattoos are indeed memento mori—but for me, they are ultimately joyous ones, offering a way to simultaneously memorialize and celebrate the present moment, to honor the inviolable now and accept the inevitable then. We can’t ever really go backwards, erase, undo—and perhaps that’s a good thing, or at least a beautiful, difficult, inescapably existence-defining thing. Perhaps that’s the argument for keeping Winona Forever forever: because she will always have been forever, once.
ecurrent.com / february 2015 11
food food Tmaz Taqueria
3182 Packard Rd Ann Arbor, MI 48108 (734) 477-6089 tmaztaqueria.com/ Mon - Sat: 7am to 11pm Sun: 10 am - 8 pm
Restaurant Review Tmaz Taqueria
Keeping it real, at a reasonable price By Joe Saul & Lisa Leutheuser
G
iant salsa-soaked, football-shaped sandwiches stuffed with fried pork or chorizo? A wide range of tacos, including regional specialties? Mexican baked goods baked fresh on site? It’s easy to overlook Tmaz Taqueria, tucked into a strip mall on Packard east of Platt, but it’s worth making the effort to find them. It’s also worth knowing what the best dishes are. Most everything at Tmaz is at least good, but some items are truly great.
Churrascos – listed on the “Tortas” menu, but the corn tortilla version gives you three excellent steak tacos with shredded vegetables and mayo, topped with grilled scallions and served with a sweet-ish red salsa. They added this for their Guatemalan friends and we’re glad they did. The scallions (you may need to redistribute them) and the salsa add an essential touch of sweetness that make these tacos extra special.
Appetizers
These massive sandwiches may be where Tmaz shines brightest. They can be a meal unto themselves, or, better, paired with rice and beans. Torta Cubana – a distant relative of the traditional Cuban sandwich, a Mexican “torta Cubana” includes a lot of different meats, mostly pork. Tmaz’s version is a lovely, greasy, salty mix of pork, ham, chicken, and chorizo with sliced hot dogs and jalapeños. (I know, hot dogs? But trust us.) Torta Ahogada – on one of those large, footballshaped rolls, this sandwich includes a generous filling of fried shredded pork and onions, with raw onions and avocados on top, covered in rich and spicy chile de arbol sauce.
Guacamole – fresh, just the simple basics with great texture and a nice balance of flavors. If you somehow tire of the regular version, the Guacamole Verde, with tomatillos, is a nice variant.
Tacos
The authentic kind, served on soft corn tortillas. When you decide how many to order, be aware that they use full-size tortillas, so they’re bigger than usual. All of the basics are here, but here’s the best of the best:
Al Pastor – bits of marinated pork with achiote, onions, and a touch of pineapple, these have a sweetsmoky flavor and great texture. Barbacoa – shredded beef, flavorful and moist. Best with a squeeze of lime. Camaron/Pescado Frito Empanizado – with crispy fried shrimp (camaron) or fish (pescado) and guacamole, these are tasty albeit not traditional outside of San Diego or Baja California.
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Tortas
Main Dishes / Soups
Among the dizzying array of tacos and tortas, it’s easy to miss the board with the main dishes. And the soups aren’t even listed.
food
Tortas
Churrascos
Pozole – A traditional spicy Mexican soup with big chunks of pork and hominy kernels, served with lime (a squeeze of lime is a must!), onion, cilantro, and steaming hot tortillas. A meal on its own, it’s not listed anywhere we saw but you can ask for it. Also try their Caldo de Res, beef soup with chunks of corn on the cob, if they have it. Chiles Rellenos – covered in a fluffy egg batter, stuffed with ground beef and carrots, soaked with sauce, and served with rice and beans, this is a great version of the dish. (The beans, which include bacon but also thinly-sliced hot dogs, can also be ordered vegetarian.)
Beverages
This isn’t even a section on most reviews, but in addition to the expected cooler of US and Mexican soft drinks, Tmaz makes aguas frescas on site. We tried horchata (rice and almond), strawberry, and a mixed fruit cocktail, and they were all excellent. After your meal, check out the bakery cases – it’s a limited selection, but very fresh. Other places in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti which have Mexican baked goods bring them in from elsewhere, but these are baked right at Tmaz. (Get there around 2:30 for fresh churros.)
Thaw out with a PIPING HOT Pizza from Aubree’s! South Lyon | 248.437.8000 Dexter | 734.424.1400 aubrees.com IT’S YOUR PLACE!
ecurrent.com / february 2015 13
food
4 wednesday
For the Love of Chocolate
Grange Beer Dinners featuring Dark House Brewing Co.
Chelsea celebrates Valentine’s Day with the 6th Annual Chocolate Extravaganza. A variety of Chelsea businesses will participate in this sweet event, offering gourmet chocolate tastings, chocolate jewellry, chocolate muffins and even chocolate sandwiches. Non-chocolatey events: drawings and raffles, store sales, and a bowling tournament. 10am5pm, Saturday, February 7. Dowtown Chelsea. chelseamich.com. --RC
ABC Beer Tasting for Hop Heads Gorge yourself on the hoppiest of hoppy beers—over two dozen of Michigan’s most hop-tastic. Appetizer buffets and a door prize raffle is included. 7–9pm, Wednesday, February 11. Tickets: $25 in advance, $30 if purchased on tasting day. Buying in advance is recommended. Arbor Brewing Company, 114 E. Washington St. 734-213-1393. arborbrewing. com --RC
3 tuesday
1 sunday Fast Food February
Grange Kitchen & Bar, 118 W. Liberty St. Prices vary. 734-995-2107. grangekitchenandbar.com
Specials all month long that feature made-from-scratch fast food favorites like chicken nuggets, burgers, ribs, and milkshakes. Monday-Thursday 5pm-10pm, Friday & Saturday 5pm-11pm.
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Winter Warrior Release Party
6-7pm. $10. Arbor Brewing Company Brewpub, 114 E. Washington St. 734-213-1393. arborbrewing.com
Enjoy the newest beer in ABC’s line-up. $1 donation for each Winter Warrior sold will be donated to the Shelter Association’s Delonis Center, to support their mission to end homelessness.
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6:30pm. $60/per person. Grange Kitchen & Bar, 118 W. Liberty St. 734-995-2107. grangekitchenandbar.com
Five course beer and food pairing from Chef Brandon. Reservations required.
6 friday Brews, Brats, & The Brinery
6-8pm. $45. Zingerman’s Creamery, 3723 Plaza Dr. 734-929-0500. zingermanscreamery.com
Local fermented vegetable luminaries at The Brinery make some of the best sauerkraut and pickles around. Paired up with the fresh sausage offerings from Detroit’s own Corridor Sausage Co. and cold beer equal a good time.
7 saturday Winter Warriors Patio Party
Noon-5pm. Arbor Brewing Company Brewpub, 114 E. Washington St. 734-213-1393. arborbrewing.com Free
Brave the elements at the 6th annual Winter Warrior event with cold beer, warm drinks, hot food, and a crackling fire. The patio will be open for guests to enjoy $1 draft beers and chili specials.
8 sunday Secret Winter Garden Dinner
4-9pm. $75. Zingerman’s Cornman Farms, 8540 Island Lake Rd., Dexter. 734-619-8100. cornmanfarms.com
Featuring greens for the fourth Farm-to-Fork dinner, complemented with salt-cured whitefish, venison and pork belly, and accompanied by sauerkraut and winter-dug Jerusalem artichokes. Registration required.
Comparative Cupping 1-3pm. $30. Zingerman’s Coffee Company, 3723 Plaza Dr. 734-929-6060. zingermanscoffee.com
Sample coffees from Africa, Central and South America as well as the Asian Pacific. Taste and evaluate the coffees using professional techniques and instruction. Registration required.
9 monday Business Etiquette Luncheon With Keither Soster
11:30-1:30pm. $15. Pierpont Commons, 3101 Bonisteel Boulevard. 734-764-7544 uunions.umich.edu/league
Learn the do’s and don’t of formal dining during this workshop, available to students at the University of Michigan. Registration required.
6th Annual Chocolate Extravaganza
Cocktail Class: Sherry and Port
30 different Chelsea businesses offer chocolate tastings, store sales, and activities with a chocolate theme.
Try some of the hottest trends in modern cocktails. Sample and learn how to mix.
Downtown Chelsea. 10am-5pm. 734-475-3539. chelseamich.com Free
7:30 pm. $45. The Last Word, 301 W. Huron St. 734-276-3215. tammystastings.com/shop
Searchable lists updated daily at ecurrent.com
11 wednesday
14 saturday
Hop Heads Beer Tasting
Victorian Valentine Teas
Bitter lovers unite! This is your chance to pick which hoppy brew is the best.
Bring your sweetheart to enjoy some teas in Ann Arbor’s own Greek Revival house. Also on Sunday.
7-9pm. $25/advance, $30/at the door. Arbor Brewing Company Brewpub, 114 E. Washington St. 734-213-1393. arborbrewing.com
12 thursday Phantom Masks & Opera
6-8pm. $89.95. Gratzi, 326 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. 888-456-3463. gratzirestaurant.com
In cooperation with Bellini Opera Theatre, Gratzi invites you to attend a night of spectacular food and opera. Enjoy Chef John Fischer’s 3-course dinner alongside Dino Valle’s production of Phantom Masks & Opera, performed by local artists.
A Corn Fest
1-2:30pm. Westminster Presbyterian Church social Hall, 1500 Scio Chruch Rd. 734-930-9962. Free
Chefs from all areas are invited to sample some delicious corn dishes from all over the world, and get a mini lesson on their origin.
13 friday Growing Hope Vendor Pot Luck
6pm. Towne Center Place, 401 W. Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti. growinghope.net Free.
Bring a dish, and enjoy the many vendors of Ypsilanti.
Rum & Chocolate Valentine’s Cocktail Hour
Two seatings: 6-7pm & 8-9pm. Zingerman’s Deli, 415 N. 4th Ave. $35. 734-663-3400. zingermansdeli.com Taste three hand-selected rums and a special rum concoction that pair deliciously with chocolate. Registration required.
1:30pm & 4pm. $25. Kempf House Museum, 312 S. Division St. 734-994-4898. kempfhousemuseum.org
15 sunday Funky Brunch
10am-2pm. Bona Sera Cafe, 200 W. Michigan Ave, Ypsilanti. 734-340-6335. eatypsi.com
Gourmet food, natural ingredients, music, bottomless mimosa and Bloody Mary bar. Also on February 22.
Sixth Annual Chili Cookoff/Beer Tasting
2-5pm. $20/chili tastings & beer sampling ticket, $10/chili tastings only, $5/children. Wolverine State Brewing Company, 2019 W. Stadium Blvd. 734-971-2228. a2ct.org
The Ann Arbor Civic Theatre presents this 6th annual chili fundraiser cook off and beer tasting, with raffles, and other fun.
17 tuesday New Holland Brewing and Oyster Dinner Mardi Gras Celebration
Reception 6-7:30pm. Dinner 7:30pm. $40/reception, $90/dinner. Zingerman’s Roadhouse, 2501 Jackson Ave. 734-663-3663. zingermansroadhouse.com
Join for a reception with beer and oysters followed by a lavish multi-course Mardi Gras dinner.
Paesano’s Carnevale Celebration
6:30pm. $95. Paesano, 3411 Washtenaw Ave. 734-971-0484. paesanoannarbor.com
Join Paesano for a five-course Italian feast, with paired Italian wines, in an Mardi Gras celebration, Italy style. Registration required.
cont. on page 16
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food
See pgs 7-8
Mardi Gras Italiano Our friends at Paesano are celebrating Fat Tuesday Italian-style. Carnevale is a timehonored Italian festival with Roman-era roots. Paesano’s event includes 5 courses with Italian wine pairings courtesy of special guest Italian wine importer Claudio Salvador and Italian vintner, Massimo Piccin of the Podere Sapaio winery. Many guests get in the spirit by dressing in costumes and wearing masks. Reservations are required. $95. 6:30pm, Tuesday, February 17. Paesano Restaurant & Wine Bar, 3411 Washtenaw Road, 734 971-0484
Flips & Fizzes Zingerman’s is offering a fun cocktail class this month that will give bubble junkies their fizzy fix. Fizzes are made with sours, acidic juices, and carbonated water. Flips incorporate eggs, sugar, and nutmeg. Tool together Rum Flips, Brandy Milk Punch, and Ramos Gin Fizzes and learn how to properly stir, shake, and pour. Registration is required. 7-9:30pm, Friday February 27. $65. Zingerman’s Cornman Farms, 8540 Island Lake Rd, Dexter, MI. 734-619-8100. --RC
GLUTEN FREE • NON-GMO • NO PRESERVATIVES • CREATED LOCALLY
Thank you to all of our loyal customers!
visit annarbortortilla.com to see where you can find our products
ecurrent.com / february 2015 15
FOR MORE INFORMATION & REGISTRATION PLEASE GO TO WWW.A2YOGA.NET
LIVING THE LIGHT WITHIN™
A2yoga.net
FREE NIA JAM March 7th, 2pm Hosted by A2 Yoga
OVER 40 CLASSES WEEKLY
including Onã-Flow Vinyasa, Yin Yoga, Heart-centered Hatha, Pre/Post-natal Yoga!
CLASS PASSES
available including 7 day Trial pass for new students ($15). 2030 COMMERCE BLVD ANN ARBOR, MI 48103 734.216.4006
food Artini 2015 Some of Ann Arbor’s top bars and restaurants will, for the 7th year running, compete to create the city’s most artful martini, while supporting the Ann Arbor Art Center. Artini-goers visit the many participating establishments—The Alley Bar, Bab’s Underground Lounge, The Black Pearl, Café Felix, Conor O’Neill’s, Habana, Mash, Mélange, Rush Street and Vinology—tasting hand-crafted cocktails. At the end of the evening, the public votes via text for their favorite “Artini.” Artini Martini Crawl, $50, Friday, February 20, 2015 beginning at 7pm, annarborartcenter.org/artini2015.
cont. from page 15
20 friday Lenten Fish Fry
5-8pm. $10. St. Mary Chelsea Knights of Columbus, 14200 E. E Old Us-12, Chelsea. 734-475-7561.
St. Mary Chelsea Knights of Columbus celebrates Lent with a fish fry. Every Friday until March 27.
Cheese Mastery Class #5: Cheddar 6-8pm. $35. Zingerman’s Creamery, 3723 Plaza Dr. 734-929-0500. zingermanscreamery.com
Creamery Managing Partner Aubrey Thomason shares the history of Cheddar in this fifth session of the Cheese Mastery Class. Registration required.
21 saturday Zingerman’s First Annual Wedding Show
1-5pm. $10. Zingerman’s Cornman Farms, 8540 Island Lake Rd., Dexter. 734-619-8100. cornmanfarms.com
Find out all the ways Zingerman’s can help make your wedding the event of a lifetime. Registration required.
The Great Ypsilanti Train Robbery Dinner Theater
4pm. $49.95. Angel Food Catering, 44850 N I-94, Belleville. 734-697-1100. angelfoodinc.com
Enjoy a gourmet meal while being part of a reenactment of the unsolved train heist of1916. Comedy, drama, and crime! Another showing at 8pm.
22 sunday San Street at Cornman Farms Dinner
7-10pm. $85. Cornman Farms, 8540 Island Lake Rd., Dexter. 734-619-8100. cornmanfarms.com
Join the culinary genius behind San Street, Ji Hye Kim, and the Cornman Farms team for this unforgettable night of ridiculously good food and drinks. See you there!
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/ ecurrent.com
23 monday Cocktail Class: Spring Break Cocktails 7:30pm. $45. The Last Word, 301 W. Huron St. 734-276-3215. tammystastings.com/shop
Taste cocktails from Jamaica, Brazil, Cuba and more at this vacation themed cocktail class. Registration required.
26 thursday The Nature of Beer
7pm-8:30pm. $8. Leslie Science & Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org
Local science Teacher Brandon Goff discusses the history of beer, brewing processes, and ecology of their ingredients.
27 friday Cocktail Class: February Flips and Fizzes
7-9pm. $65. Zingerman’s Cornman Farms, 8540 Island Lake Rd., Dexter. 734-619-8100. cornmanfarms.com
By the end of this fun and active cocktail class, you’ll have created three cocktails, enjoyed delicious appetizers and gained cocktail confidence with your newly honed shaking and pouring skills. Registration required.
Ongoing: Tuesdays
Take Away Tuesdays
Ann Arbor Brewing Co., 114 E. Washington St. 734-213-1393. arborbrewing.com Free
Enjoy $5 off growler fills when you spend $5. Also take advantage of the happy hour deals.
Searchable lists updated daily at ecurrent.com
music
The Morning After Sleepify Vulfpeck’s Pure Grooves
From left: Woody Gross, Joe Dart, Theo Katzman, Jack Stratton
By Jeff Milo
B
allads and soloing are for showoffs. All you really and, if you see them perform, looks like a lot of fun. Their need is groove. Vulfpeck, an Ann Arbor-born latest, Fugue State, exudes their characteristic shuffling, quartet, fashioned after rhythm sections from snappy drums under curlicue keyboard melodies, leaving the Stax and Motown heyday, follow this simple but plenty of space for the bass to thump its soulful phrasings unbeatable formula: minimalist instrumental grooves that and the guitar’s subtle vamping to chip and chop its way in and out amid the driving groove. keep it tight, live, and fun. Stratton says they’re just plugging into that feel-good Band founder and keyboardist Jack Stratton, currently living in L.A., discussed why Vulfpeck’s music, almost vibe of the bygone-era Stax/Motown classics like Jean entirely instrumental understated jams blending shimmy- Knight’s “Mr. Big Stuff,” Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition” funk and soulful jazz, sounds so smooth, confident and, or The Four Seasons’ “September, 1963.” Those jams came about with “live tracked rhythm sections,” said Stratton. well, fun! “So, it’s not some artist hang-up for us to “We cut Vulfpeck to be a project where do it this way, it’s actually the way many of it is fun to make recordings. I mean, to nail Their tight the best feeling songs have been made.” a take, live, and just know that it’s done interplay, Whimsicality plays into Vulfpeck’s versus that weird digital vortex of perfect the palpable charm as well. This past holiday season, pop music with all its screen time spent Stratton and the crew tried their hand at fixing pitch correction or beat correction. chemistry and a Christmas pop song in an effort to gain Making records this way for us is really preternatural membership to The Westside Jewish Comrewarding.” abilities to read munity Center. Apparently if someone Stratton, with fellow U-M alums Theo Katzman, Woody Goss and Joe Dart, made each other sounds pens a Top 40 Christmas song, they’re granted immediate free lifetime memberheadlines last April when they pulled the effortless and, ship at the WJCC. Hence, they recorded rug out from under the compensatory if you see them and released the playful, sunsplashed yuleformula for artists featured on the popular perform, looks tide jam “Christmas In L.A.,” featuring streaming service Spotify. With their Sleepify album, Stratton like a lot of fun. Katzman on lead vocals and David T. Walker on guitar. It works year ‘round, took to YouTube to encourage fans to actually, and you can find it on Spotify. stream this silent album throughout the "I love instrumental music,” Stratton said, “but it's night, thus massively racking up the royalties. At a miniscule .0005 cents per song and enough fans streaming, they very obvious that adding vocals (with "Christmas In L.A.") successfully raised enough money to finance a national gives it a broader appeal. My mom wasn't jamming on the tour for which they offered free admission. Spotify pulled Christmas song, but then with the full track she's playing it at her spin class and sending it around." it after one month. This year, expect the group to record more funk with “Ya know, sometimes I catch myself whining about streaming music and the state of everything,” said founding the marvelous vocal talent Antwaun Stanley, produce member Jack Stratton, “but I look at the group, to where more of their charming lo-fi conceptual YouTube videos, we’ve self-released (four EPs) and built an international and finish a new record with a subsequent tour. “So, fan base all for a couple hundred bucks of promotion? we’ll just fall into whatever momentum we have and… It’s insane. And winding up owning every penny of our maybe, try to rein in some international money making masters and publishing, that’s strange. I don’t think that’s scheme again.” typical for bands prior to the internet.” www.vulfpeck.com YouTube: http://vulf.de/vids Their tight interplay, the palpable chemistry and preBandcamp: http://vulf.de/audio ternatural abilities to read each other sounds effortless ecurrent.com / february 2015 17
music
nos. 1 and 2 for piano, Debussy’s Petite Suite.
2 monday Grizfolk
8pm. $10/advance, $12/day of. Blind Pig, 208 S. 1st St. 734-996-8555. blindpigmusic.com
The rock-pop band sings softly, but carries a big and sharp electro-edge. 18+.
4 wednesday The Main Squeeze
Friday 6 / The Fillmore
Bring your “Rebel Yell” to this show. 59-year-old power rocker Billy Idol still wants more, more, more. Dust off your Generation-X T-shirt, time to scream the lyrics you know by heart and flex that out-of-shape punk rock muscle. All ages. $47-$74. February 6. 7pm. 2115 Woodward Ave., Detroit. 313-961-5451.
WWS XIII: 13th Anniversary Gala Celebrating the KCH Tradition of Wine, Women and Song
4pm. $20/general admission, $30-$50/ assigned rows. Kerrytown Concert House, 415 N. 4th Ave. 734-769-2999. kerrytownconcerthouse.com
Performers will include Sue Booth, Carolyn Burnstein, Wendy Bloom, Shelley MacMillan, Lisa Gray, Linda Beaupre, KCH founder Deanna Relyea, Susan Shipman, and Kathy Waugh. Also on February 6 and 7.
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february
The Bowdish Brothers
2-3pm. Chelsea District Library, 221 S. Main St. 734-475-8732. chelsea.lib.mi.us Free
Part of the Winter Music Series, American Country music is explored with influences from The Carter Family, Merle Haggard and Hank Williams.
University Philharmonia Orchestra 8pm. Hill Auditorium, 825 N. University Ave. 734-764–2538. umich.edu
Oriol Sans is the guest conductor. Featuring Bright Sheng’s Prelude and Black Swan, Brahm’s Intermezzos op. 118,
2015 / ecurrent.com
This Ann Arbor ska-funk-jazz band brings the heat.
Appalachia singer Kathy Mattea plays her unique style of downhome country twang, in a live show matched by few.
Local H
8pm. $35. The Ark, 316 S. Main St. 734-761-1451. theark.org
5 thursday Frank Vignola & Vinny Raniolo
8pm. $10/general admission, $5/ student, $15-$25/assigned rows. Kerrytown Concert House, 415 N. 4th Ave. 734-769-2999. kerrytownconcerthouse.com
1 sunday
8pm. $5-$10. The Yellow Barn, 416 N. Huron St. ouryellowbarn.com
Come hear this up-and-coming and talented singer songwriter from Ann Arbor.
The Admiral Launch Duo
Valentine’s Day is a day of romance. Unless, of course, you aren’t in a relationship. Celebrate both sides of the holiday with a love/hate themed show, featuring a bundle of local bands from the Ypsi/Arbor area. Presented by Intellect Records, some of the bands include The Pre Madonnas, Goldenboy Prevails, The Vagrant Symphony, Flycatcher and more. $5. February 15. 7:30pm. 517 W. Cross St., Ypsilanti. 734-340-5597
Hullabaloo
Kathy Mattea
A unique string performance, blending the technicality of jazz with the soul of contemporary rock, swing and blues.
Sunday 15 / Crossroad’s Bar and Grill
You get the opposite sides of the lyrical spectrum with this collaboration. Listen to captivating love songs while still confronting hypocrisies and biases of our culture.
Katie Pederson
8pm. $20. The Ark, 316 S. Main St. 734-761-1451. theark.org
Songs of Love and Songs of Hate!
8pm. $15. Green Wood Coffee House, 1001 Green Rd. 734-665-8558. greenwoodcoffeehouse.org
9pm. $10. Blind Pig, 208 S. First St. 734-996-8555. blindpigmusic.com
The post-funk band from Chicago takes the stage at the Pig. 18+.
Billy Idol
SONiA and disappear fear
The Admiral Launch Duo is a collaboration between Jonathan Hulting-Cohen, B.M. University of Michigan, and Jennifer Ellis, B.M. Oberlin, M.M. Cleveland Institute of Music, and explores new sounds for harp and saxophone through improvisation and working directly with composers.
6 friday Symphony Band
8pm. University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance, 1100 Baits Dr. 734-764-0583. music.umich.edu/performances_ events Free
The Symphony Band welcomes U-M alumna Carol Jantsch, principal tuba of the Philadelphia Orchestra. The band will have the premiere performance of Michael Daugherty’s Reflections on the Mississippi for Tuba and Band. This uniquely American musical reflection is paired with Ricardo Lorenz’s El Muro, a work based on his Latin heritage.
Billy Idol
7pm. $47-$74. The Fillmore, 2115 Woodward Ave., Detroit. 313-9615451. thefillmoredetroit.com
Bring your “Rebel Yell” to this show. 59-year-old power rocker Billy Idol is taking the mic for some old-school power-punk.
8:30-10:30pm. Crazy Wisdom, 114 S. Main St. 734-665-2757. crazywisdom.net Free
7 saturday 9pm. $14. Blind Pig, 208 S. First Street. 734-996-8555. blindpigmusic.com
The two-man band brings their powerful rock show. With Ann Arbor rockin’ locals Blue Snaggletooth as an opener.
8 sunday Creole Du Nord
2-2:30pm. Chelsea Alehouse, 420 N. Main St. 734-475-2337. chelseaalehouse.com Free
Creole, Cajun, and zydeco music.
9 monday Somebody Told Me: A Night of Songs and Stories 8pm. $40/General admission, $75/ reserved, $125/VIP. The Ark, 316 S. Main St. 734-761-1451. theark.org
Andrew McMahon, Brett Dennen, Glen Phillips, and Jonathon Kingham will take the stage for a special event, to raise money and awareness of three different non-profits.
11 wednesday Giraffage
9pm. $14. Blind Pig, 208 S. First St. 734-996-8555. blindpigmusic.com
California electronic music producer Charlie Yin spins some EDM. 18+
Borgeous
9pm. $15-$40. Necto, 516 E. Liberty St. 734-994-5436. necto.com
EDM producer John Borger from Miami brings his dance music, his preferred genre, in his alias Borgeous.
12 thursday Wynton Marsalis and the Lincoln Center Orchestra 4-6pm. $14-$60. Hill Auditorium, 825 N. University. umich.edu
A 2011 NEA Jazz Master, 2014 UMS Distinguished Artist Award recipient, and arguably the most famous jazz musician alive, trumpeter and composer Wynton Marsalis is an iconic figure in the evolution of the art form and a tireless advocate for jazz as America’s classical music.
cont. on page 20
Photo by Jonathan Gretarsson
music
Iceland’s latest export:Ásgeir By Brandon Bye
Singer Ásgeir Trausti Einarsson released an album in 2012 that has become the biggest selling debut ever in his native Iceland—Sigur Ros and Bjork’s homeland. This year Ásgeir released the album again, in English. In The Silence balances classical guitar with modern folktronica and a delicate vocal timbre akin to Thom Yorke and Jonsi. In anticipation of his show in Royal Oak, Ásgeir chatted with us about performace, his creative process, his collaboration with his poet father, and Nirvana. You’re a songwriter, but you’re not a lyricist. Can you talk a little about what it’s like collaborating with your father?
No, I wouldn’t consider myself a lyricist, but I did write my own lyrics when I was younger and still do it sometimes. For this album, I wrote the melodies to most of the songs, mostly made up English sounding, nonsense lyrics, before my dad wrote the lyrics... I’ve been writing lyrics since I was 12 or 13. I’d find my dad’s poetry lying around the house and I’d pick it up and use it for some of my songs. For this album, he wrote the song “Summer Guest,” the first song released in Iceland that got really popular. And then we did it with the other songs. It was really easy, though we were never in the room together. I live in Reykjavik and my parents live three hours away. We would record the song in the studio and I’d send him the song, which had some melody of some made up words and some structural flow so he could see how the lyrics should be. He would call. We would talk about it for few minutes. And usually it would take just two days and I’d be happy with it. Do you think the success of In Silence will change the collaboration?
I’ve been talking about this with my dad recently. I’d love to have him on the next record. I don’t know if it’s going to be the whole record or two songs, but I do think he wants to be a part of it as well. We’re finishing touring now and then we’re going back home. I’ll spend some time writing and I’ll meet up with my dad. We’ll figure out how we’re going to do it. About your tour, when you play to English speaking audiences, how do you decide which songs to play in English and which songs to play in Icelandic?
It’s the singles that we play in English, when we’re outside of Iceland, at least. And the songs we sing in Icelandic, I just feel better singing them in Icelandic. It feels more natural. And that comes out in the performance. I like to mix it up as well. The audience seems to enjoy that, having two languages. Do you ever perform alone on stage to mix things up for the audience?
I haven’t done a big show like that, but I’ve done a few songs. And there’s always one song that I play alone, just an electric guitar and vocals—On That Day. It hasn’t been too much a part of this tour. I feel really good about performing alone on stage. I can definitely see that in the future, maybe doing tours with just vocals and guitar and piano. Between writing, recording, and performing, which aspect of creating music do you most enjoy?
That’s a hard one. I would have to say recording is my favorite. When you’ve written a song and you are ready to take it to the next level. You start experimenting with different things, with a song that was so stripped down in the beginning. It comes to life and that’s a really good feeling. But you also enjoy performing those stripped down songs, just piano and guitar.
Exactly. I like both. It’s always good to experiment with songs. Usually I begin writing on the piano or guitar. And with some songs I can see straight away how much the song needs, how big of a band it needs. I like doing different versions, as well. Stripped-down versions (laughs). Nirvana’s Nevermind was your first album. What did you parents think of it, of Kurt Cobain?
My mom actually bought it for me when I was seven. My dad didn’t care, but my mom didn’t really like it when she heard it. But it was motivation to play guitar, which was a great thing. It really influenced me on a whole lot of musical levels—just such a big part of my childhood. Hozier with special guest Ásgeir, 7:30, Saturday, February 28, Royal Oak Music Theatre, 318 West Fourth Street, Royal Oak, MI, (248) 298-0708 www.royaloakmusictheatre.com
ecurrent.com / february 2015 19
music
Campbell Brothers perform John Coltrane’s “A Love Supreme” Friday 20 / The Michigan Theater
In February 1965, John Coltrane released his famous four-part jazz suite “A Love Supreme.” 50 years later, Coltrane’s legacy lives on. The Campbell Brothers, a gospel jazz group from Rochester, New York, perform a retelling of Coltrane’s classic in their steel-guitar African American gospel-jazz genre. Tickets available at ums.org. $22-$48. February 20. 8pm. 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8463.
Electric Six
Saturday 28 / Blind Pig
Danger, danger! Electric Six returns to the Blind Pig, once again bringing their “high voltage” performance. This Detroit rock band is known for high energy and danceable hits, like “Gay Bar.” Super-pop band Avan Lava will open. 18+. $15. February 28. 9pm. 208 S. First St. 734-996-8555. --RC
cont. from page 18 A Tribute to Love Valentine’s Day Concert
7:30pm. Washtenaw Community College Towsley Auditorium, 4800 E. Huron River Dr. 734-973-3300. wcc.edu Free
The Washtenaw Community Concert Band will feature trombonist David Jackson, professor of music at U-M. Highlights include a tribute to George Gershwin and the overture to Offenbach’s Orpheus in the Underworld.
cont. on page 22
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2015 / ecurrent.com
13 friday John McCutcheon
8pm. $20. The Ark, 316 S. Main St. 734-761-1451. theark.org
McCutcheon is a master of the guitar, the hammered dulcimer, and several other instruments.
Nathan Bell
8pm. $12. Green Wood Coffee House, 1001 Green Rd. 734-665-8558. greenwoodcoffeehouse.org
Enjoy this special brand of “accidental” love songs, by a solo acoustic artist deeply influenced by Neil Young.
Salmagundi and Nucleus 8pm. $5-$10. The Yellow Barn, 416 W. Huron St. 734-358-3832. ouryellowbarn.com
Eclectic music styles and seasoned musicians are the name of the game on this night.
Old Friends
7pm. Silvio’s Organic Pizza, 715 N. University Ave. 734-214-6666 silviosorganicpizza.com Free
Trio of and talented musicians, playing the harmonica, acoustic guitar, mandolin/accordion and singing. Performing covers from Santana to Otis Redding to Neil Young to Pink Floyd.
14 saturday University of Michigan Jazz Day
2-4:15pm. U-M Moore Building, 1100 Baits Dr. 734-764-0583. music.umich.edu/performances_ events Free
An afternoon of masterclasses, jam sessions, Q&As about the U-M Jazz Program and careers in jazz, followed by a concert by the U-M Jazz Faculty at 5pm in the Stamps Auditorium.
BreakFEST 2015
7:30pm. $30. The Ark, 316 S. Main St. 734-761-1451. theark.org
Luke Winslow King and Clarence Bucaro celebrate compassion and love on Valentine’s day with delta-folk and Americana music, in a concert to benefit Breakfast at St. Andrews for anyone in need.
Mr. B’s Annual Birthday Bounce
8pm. $15/general admission, $5/student, $20-$30/assigned rows. Kerrytown Concert House, 415 N. 4th Ave. 734-761-1451. kerrytownconcerthouse.com
Jazz, boogie woogie and blues pianist Mark Lincoln Braun (a.k.a. Mr. B.) returns to Kerrytown Concert House for his annual Birthday bounce! This year, Mr. B brings a little Valentine flair to the evening.
15 sunday Nothing Says “I Love You” Like Breakcore
9pm. $5. Far House, 2606 Packard St. facebook.com/farhouse
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with some Breakcore music. Company F*** , a one-man noisecore band from Germany, known for its energetic and unpredictable live shows, is set to play. Botborg, an audio-visual performance group from New York will also play. Other high energy electro-bands include Krill, Watabou and Selector Catalogue.
Songs of Love/ Songs of Hate IV
7:30pm. $5-$10. Crossroad’s Bar & Grill, 517 W. Cross St., Ypsilanti. 734-340-5597. facebook.com/pages/ the-crossroads-bar-grill
Intellect records post Valentine’s day show, featuring local bands like The Vagrant Symphony, The Pre Madonnas,
music
Goldenboy Prevails, Jessa and more.
Henrik Karapetyan, Baroque Violin & Francis Yun, Harpsichord
4pm. $10/general admission, $5/student, $15-$25/assigned rows. Kerrytown Concert House, 415 N. 4th Ave. 734-769-2999. kerrytownconcerthouse.com
Relax and watch two masters of the Baroque Violin and Harpsichord play wonderful melodies with professional musicianship.
Jordan Otto Quintet
2-3pm. Chelsea Alehouse, 420 N. Main St. 734-475-2337. chelseaalehouse.com Free
Classic, contemporary, and original jazz - led by percussionist and Ann Arbor native Jordan Otto.
Javanese Gamelan Performance
8pm. Walgreen Drama Center: Stamps Auditorium, 1226 Murfin Ave. 734-764-2538. stamps.umich.edu/stamps Free
The performance will include Javanese traditional music and dance performances, in which the elegant and refined bodily movements depicting ancient epic stories will be accompanied by the traditional musical sounds of a full gamelan ensemble.
16 monday Hey Rosetta!
7:30pm. $15. The Ark, 316 S. Main St. 734-761-1451. theark.org
The poetic Canadian group Hey Rosetta! is an indie-rock band with unique sound.
17 tuesday Ladysmith Black Mambazo
8pm. $45. The Ark, 316 S. Main St. 734-761-1451. theark.org
South African music pulling from roots of Isicathamiya.
18 wednesday Sister Sparrow
8pm. $15. The Ark, 316 S. Main St. 734-761-1451. theark.com
Powerful female vocals, Sister Sparrow is a mix of Amy Winehouse, Tina Turner, and Mick Jagger.
Timber Timbre
8pm. $12. The Magic Bag, 22920 Woodward Ave., Ferndale. 734-544-1989. themagicbag.com
The band with the dark and X-Files-like sound comes to the Magic Bag, with a special brand of simple melodies, deep lyrics, and mystery.
19 thursday
20 friday Matt Watroba
8pm. $15. Green Wood Coffee House, 1001 Green Rd. 734-665-8558. greencoffeehouse.org
Enjoy excellent guitar playing, a mellow voice, and accessible lyrics from this local folk musician.
Campbell Brothers perform John Coltrane’s A Love Supreme
8pm. $22-$48. The Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8463. ums.org
The Campbell Brothers, a gospel jazz group from Rochester, New York, perform a retelling of Coltrane’s classic in their steel-guitar African American gospel-jazz genre.
Cheryl Wheeler
8pm. $25. The Ark, 316 S. Main St. 734-761-1451. theark.org
Pretty, alluring, and emotional ballads, mixed with the lyrical commentary of a savagely funny social critic.
Jo Serrapere Trio
8:30-10:30pm. Crazy Wisdom, 114 S. Main St. 734-665-2757. crazywisdom.net Free
Enjoy some American roots music, from covers to originals, from Ann Arbor favorite The Jo Serrapere Trio.
Bliss
7pm. Silvio’s Organic Pizza, 715 N. University Ave. 734-214-6666 silviosorganicpizza.com Free
Ann Arbor based folk group plays their blend of instruments from the present and past, with a keyboard and world percussion into a style they like to call Folklectic World Pop.
21 saturday Aguanko
8pm. $5-$10. The Yellow Barn, 416 N. Huron St. 734-358-3832. ouryellowbarn.com
Doctor by day, Cuban musician and composer by night, Dr. Alberto Nacif spices up the Yellow Barn at this event. Excellent percussion, accessible jazz rhythms, and eclectic musical styles are highlighted.
22 sunday Washtenaw Community Concert Band Ensemble Concert
2-4pm. Zal Gaz Grotto, 2070 W. Stadium Blvd. 734-663-1202. zalgaz.org Free
Instrumentalists from the Band and the community will perform music from various genres in many small groups. Light food/drink available. Cash only.
Doomtree
That 1 Guy
The rap group and electro musicians combine a surprising blend of raw raps and hard-core electronic musicianship. 18+.
The one man show, with a peculiar electronic instrument is one of a kind! 18+
9pm. $16. Bling Pig, 208 S. First St. 734-996-8555. blindpigmusic.com
23 monday Albert Lee
8pm. $25. The Ark, 316 S. Main St. 734-761-1451. theark.org
You know he’s great when Eric Clapton calls Albert Lee the greatest guitarist in the world! Come see the two-time Grammy winning guitartist’s solo show.
24 tuesday Disappears & Suuns
9pm. $10/advance, $12/day of. Blind Pig, 208 S. First St. 734-996-8555. blindpigmusic.com
These two alternative rock bands bring their full bodied rock sounds.
27 friday Harriet Tubmen
7pm & 8:30pm. $10. Detroit Institute of Arts, 5200 Woodward Ave. 313-833-7900. dia.org
The trio’s music (a fusion of soul, rock, jazz, and blues) examines the depths of these genres for their own unique liberated musical expression.
Dragon Wagon
8pm. $15.The Ark, 316 S. Main St. 734-761-1451. theark.org
Ann Arbor’s own “bluegrass folk-rock with a shot of Irish whiskey.“
J. Washburn Gardner
7pm. Silvio’s Organic Pizza, 715 N. University Ave. 734-214-6666 silviosorganicpizza.com Free
Enjoy the accessible lyrics in songs of love, pain, and coffee.
28 saturday Dave Alvin & Phil Alvin w/ The Guilty Ones
8pm. $25. The Ark, 316 S. Main St. 734-761-1451. theark.org
The Alvin Brothers haven’t made a full album together since 1985, but the bros are back and releasing their new record. Their sound is blues, Americana/alt-country.
February Sky
8:30-10:30pm. Crazy Wisdom, 114 S. Main St. 734-665-2757. crazywisdom.net Free
Traditional singer and Celtic guitarist Phil Cooper with humorous and quaint singer and songwriter Susan Urban.
Ongoing: Tuesdays
Crossroad’s Showcase Tuesdays 7pm. Crossroad’s Bar & Grill, 517 W. Cross St., Ypsilanti. 734-340-5597. Free
Check out local bands during this weekly showcase!
9pm. $12/advance, $14/day of. Blind Pig, 208 S. First St. 734-996-8555. blindpigmusic.com
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film film
Film and Theater Alive and well By Nan Bauer
O
n Christmas Eve, Russ Collins is hoarse. He didn’t get off the phone until 3am the previous morning.
Photo credit: Joe Wolf via flikr.com
gan nearly became collateral damage. That instrument, one of the few in the US to remain in its original theater home, played a big role in the MichiThe occasion: The State Theatre had chosen, along with gan’s rescue. Dr. Henry Aldrich, both a film scholar and approximately 300 other independent theaters around the theater organist, threw himself in front of the virtual country, to show one of the most controversial movies of wrecking ball, teaming up with Ann Arbor’s then-may2014. In response to the planned Christmas day release or Lou Belcher to save the Barton and the theater that of the Seth Rogen/Evan Goldberg comedy The Interview, housed it. Thanks to a check—written literally at the hackers threatened attacks on any theater eleventh hour—by philanthropist Margaret that showed the film, initially halting Sony’s Towsley, the Michigan was saved. plans to open the film in 3,000 theaters on The recently created Michigan Theater Originally built Foundation December 25. enlisted the help of internationas a movie “It’s not the kind of movie that we typially renowned restoration architect Richcally show,” says Collins. “I completely exhibition space, ard Frank to return the space to its original understand why multiplex theater owners splendor. Russ Collins became executive the State has wouldn’t have wanted to take any chances. director in 1982, and worked with the board But we were in a position to be a little brave. been carved up and staff to move the Michigan forward. And freedom of speech is something worth over the years. That included adding the Screening Room, being a little brave about.” In his capaca smaller theater with acoustics designed ity as head of the Art House Convergence, for watching movies—the main theater still an alliance of art house theaters across the U.S., Collins shines as a live venue, but is less optimal, sound-wise, for wrote to Sony, stating that Convergence members would film. And in 1989 the State became available for leasing. be pleased to show the movie. Sony took him up on the Originally built as a movie exhibition space, the State offer, and phone calls from news outlets around the world has been carved up over the years. The slanting platform began. The State Theatre’s importance endures, politically that looks like a raked stage actually covers former open and locally. space on its first floor, currently occupied by Urban OutThe funkier cousin of the historic Michigan Theater, fitters. Designed by architect Howard Crane, also responThe State has long served as an adjunct to the movie pal- sible for the Opera House and Fox Theater in Detroit, the ace’s two screening spaces, one of which is often used for State was built in 1942 expressly to show movies. After live events. Yet earlier in the year, the State barely es- several months of negotiation, a “condominium” agreecaped a fate as office space. ment was reached: The Michigan owns the upstairs space Sound familiar? Back in 1979, the Michigan, too, tee- where the theater currently lives, not the building. But in tered—on the brink of a glorious future as a food court. that process, Collins hopes to make the new spaces as opOriginally designed and built by architect Maurice Finkel, timal for movie-watching as the Screening Room. the theater suffered a number of indignities over the years “We’re so lucky to live in an area like Ann Arbor and under the header of “improvement”—including a dropped the rest of Southeast Michigan,” says Collins, “where peoceiling to cover the elaborate plaster carvings overhead, ple care, are generous and philanthropic. How wonderful and a snappy orange and blue color scheme to hide that to have a community where restoration and operation of stuffy old-fashioned gilt. The original Barton Theater Or- these two theaters is so important.”
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Hemingway at The Michigan
Two hired assassins, a single target, some hidden loot, one foxy harlot, and a double cross -- this 1946 film is Noir at its finest. The Killers, an Ernest Hemingway short story, follows a pair of hitmen as they come to a small town to take care of some dastardly business. Starring Burt Lancaster and Charles McGraw. The film is part of the Film Noir Series at the Michigan Theater, running until Monday, April 27th. 7pm on Monday, February 23. $10/general admission, $8/students, seniors, veterans, $7.50/members. 603 E. Liberty. 734-668-8463. —RC
Cat Videos at The State Theater
Grumpy Cat, Henri le Chat Noir, Maru, Snoopy the Cat, Lil Bub, Colonel Meow, and other internet-famous cats hit the screen at the Internet Cat Video Festival. Produced and curated by the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis, the festival gathers cat lovers and internet-cat lovers alike to watch clips, ranging from six second Vine videos to short films. Tuesday, February 24, 7 PM at the State Theatre. 233 South State Street, (734) 761-8667. —BB
1 sunday 2015 Academy Award Nominated Short Films
$8.50. 7pm Wednesdays-Saturdays, and 1pm Sunday. Detroit Institute of Arts, 5200 Woodward Ave. 313-833-7900. dia.org
Join the DIA in viewing both the animated and the liveaction categories of short films nominated for Oscars. View the creative and inspiring new projects from filmmakers. Through February 19.
4 wednesday How To Watch Experimental Film
7-8:30pm. Downtown District Library: Multi Purpose Room, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4555.aadl.org Free
This presentation by Daniel Herbert, U-M Associate Professor in Screen Arts & Cultures, provides an opportunity to watch and discuss experimental cinema.
Projectorhead Film Series: Secret Museums 7pm. UMMA: Helmut Stern Auditorium, 525 S. State St. 734-764-0395. umma.umich.edu Free
UM Department of Screen Arts and Culture presents this 2009 Peter Woditsch film that explores the censorship of erotic art worldwide.
Blade Runner
7pm. $8-$10. State Theater, 233 S. State St. 734-761-8667. michtheater.org
Part of the Film Noir Series, this Ridley Scott sci-fi cult classic is about a former cop (Harrison Ford) in 2019 L.A.
5 thursday Herb and Dorothy
9:30pm Fridays and 3pm Sundays. UMMA: Helmut Stern Auditorium, 525 S. State St. 734-764-0395. umma.umich.edu Free
The extraordinary true story of Herb and Dorothy Vogel who built an extensive and important contemporary art collection with little means, in their tiny Manhattan apartment. Through February 19.
film 7 saturday Dekalog po Dekalogu/ The Decalogue… After the Decalogue
6pm. UMMA: Helmut Stern Auditorium, 525 S. State St. 734-764-0395. umma.umich.edu Free
This film is a cycle of documentaries (in Polish with English subtitles) based on Beata Januchta’s concept of an elevator trip through reality. This project is an explicit reference to Krzysztof Kieslowski’s The Decalogue, which premiered 20 years ago and inspired the series.
2015 Academy Award Nominated Shorts
$8.50. 1pm Saturday and 7pm Thursday. Detroit Institute of Arts, 5200 Woodward Ave. 313-833-7900. dia.org
Screen the nominated short docs prior to the Oscars on February 22. Through February 12.
8 sunday Glen Campbell: I’ll Be Me 7pm. The Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8463. eventbrite.com Free
After being diagnosed with Alzheimers, Glen Campbell decided to have one more goodbye tour. This film documents this extraordinary journey as he and his family attempt to navigate the wildly unpredictable nature of Glen’s progressing disease.
10 tuesday WCNB Move Night
7:30pm. Arbor Brewing Company, 114 E. Washington St. 734-213-1393. arborbrewing.com Free
A TBD film is shown at the Tap Room of ABC Brewpub.
11 wednesday Projectorhead Film Series: The Hermitage Dwellers 7pm. UMMA: Helmut Stern Auditorium , 525 S. State St. 734-764-0395. umma.umich.edu Free
The Hermitage Dwellers is as much about the people who work in Russia’s renowned museum as it is about the glorious art works housed in this St. Petersburg institution.
14 saturday The Divine Move
2pm. The Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8463. michtheater.org Free
Part of the Korean Cinema Now series presented by the Nam Center for Korean Studies. Professional baduk player Tae-seok loses a high-stakes game to infamous underground gambler Sal-soo, and ends up framed for the murder of his own brother and locked up in prison. He vows revenge and trains ferociously.
16 monday The Big Sleep
7pm. $8-$10. The Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8463 michtheater.org
The mystery thriller (1946), starring Humphrey Bogart, Lauren Bacall and Martha Vickers, in a story adapted from the Raymond Chandler’s novel.
18 wednesday Projectorhead Film Series: Russian Ark 7pm. UMMA: Helmut Stern Auditorium, 525 S. State St. 734-764-0395. umma.umich.edu Free
Thanks to the miracles of digital video, Russian Alexander Sokurov (and cinematographer Tilman Buttner) uses a single, unbroken, 90-minute shot to wind his way through the Hermitage in St. Petersburg.
20 friday Timbuktu
$8.50. Various showtimes found online. Detroit Institute of Arts, 5200 Woodward Ave. 313-833-7900. dia.org
In a film by writer-director Abderrahmane Sissako, the ancient city of Timbuktu is under attack by foreign juhadists. Runs until March 1.
Center of Light Conscious Movie Night: The Straight Story
7pm. Center of Light, 200 Huronview Blvd. 734-330-5048. centersoflight.org Free
A film from the strange mind of David Lynch, based on a true story of an elderly man who hops on a lawn mower and treks a long journey to mend his relationship with his brother.
21 saturday Dance on Camera
6pm. UMMA: Helmet Stern Auditorium, 525 S. State St. 734-764-0395. umma.umich.edu Free
Dance Films Association’s 43rd Dance On Camera Festival is the oldest dance film festival in the world and sparked a global explosion of activity. Also on Sunday.
DFT 101: Charlulata
4pm. $8.50. Detroit Institute of Arts, 5200 Woodward Ave. 313-833-7900. dia.org
One of the finest — yet far too rarely screened — films of the great Satyajit Ray (The Apu Trilogy), the story of a woman’s artistic and romantic yearning, set in late nineteenth-century, pre-independence India, in the elegant home of a liberalminded, workaholic newspaper editor and his unfulfilled wife.
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Steel Magnolias uses humor as a “window into the human heart.”
theater
Steel Magnolias A fresh take on an American classic By Sandor Slomovits
Robert Harling wrote Steel Magnolias in 1987, based on events in his own life, after his sister died of complications with diabetes. In 1989, Hollywood producers made the play into a hugely popular movie. We caught up with Purple Rose’s Artistic Director, Guy Sanville, and actors, Laural Merlington, who plays Ouiser, and who played another role in the play twentyfive years ago, and Rachel Hull, who is making her professional debut as Shelby. We talked about the characters and how the play differs from the movie. Sanville: It’s a great script. You can tell that they took a lot of time and care in getting it right. The way it uses pain to set up laughs is killer. It uses humor as a window into the human heart like few I’ve been acquainted with. I heard somebody say, “It’s about a young woman, Shelby, who would rather have a half hour of wonderful than a whole life of nothing special.” Hull: You can look at her and think she’s stereotypical, that
we all know this girl. But we don’t. She’s living and giving for this son that she doesn’t even know that she’ll have. She’s so selfless, and I really didn’t realize that until I dove into the play. Sanville: That’s what I didn’t realize either—and I’d read it a million times. Shelby is really tough. Her body just is not nearly as strong as her heart and her will. Merlington: It’s not called Steel Magnolias for no reason. Each of these women has had some pretty tough times, they’ve all had a journey and they’re all tough. Sanville: And the way they support each other and the way they’re so open with each other, even fight with each other, it’s just really great. Current: Unlike the movie, the play has an all female cast. Merlington: Not meeting the men is more interesting, I
think.
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Photo credit: Sean Carter Photography
Sanville: Not one woman in this play defines herself by the man that she’s with. And then there is Ouiser. Merlington: She’s been in a very bad mood for forty years. (Laughter) Ouiser is reality. She’s quick to point out the dark side of everything. Sanville: Somebody says, “It couldn’t get any worse.” Merlington: And Ouiser says, “Of course it can!” (Laughter) When Ouiser comes in, we’ve already met Annelle. The other women are trying to carefully dance around and find out where she’s from and figure out the mystery around her. Ouiser doesn’t pull any punches. “Who the hell are you? And what are you doing here?” Sanville: “Married or not?”
ter)
Merlington: “These are not difficult questions.” (Laugh-
A lot of people saw the movie. Does that pose a challenge? Sanville: We do a lot of new plays here, and one of the things we work against there is that nobody’s ever heard of them. Everybody’s heard of this play and that helps. But what theater offers is that you’re actually in the room and you’re breathing the same air. When we do it right you’re not just an audience person, you’re living through the play with the actors. This is an American classic, it’s been around for more than twenty-five years, and twenty-five years from now people will still be doing this play. We’re offering people a chance to experience it in a way that they haven’t before.
Steel Magnolias, runs through March 14. Purple Rose Theater, 137 Park Street, Chelsea, MI 48118, (734) 433-7673, purplerosetheatre.org.
Modern Dancers at The Power Center
Trisha Brown has redefined modern dance throughout her 40-year career as a choreographer. Starting as an experimental dancer of the Judson Dance Theater, Brown has created over 100 dance works since 1961. Now at 77, Brown presents this tour entitled Proscenium Works, which showcases her major stage works, pulling from a lifetime of gems. A visual artist, Brown designs performances based on an instinctual expression of emotion through dance, that is both captivating and evocative. Often dancing without music, dancers throw and contort their bodies across the stage in wild yet controlled beauty. 8pm Saturday 21, and 2pm Sunday 22. $26-$48. The Power Center, 121 Fletcher St. 734-647-3327. —RC
Photos by Stephanie Berger
1 sunday Guys on Ice
7pm Thursdays, 8pm Fridays, 3pm & 8pm Saturdays, 3pm Sundays. $24-$28. The Encore Theatre, 3126 Broad St., Dexter. 734-268-6200. theencoretheatre.org
This charming play tells the story of two ice fishing buddies from Northern Wisconsin who talk and sing about life, love, and the one that got away. Show runs until February 22.
Opening night: Bus Stop Dio Theatre, 177 E. Main St., Pinckney. 517-672-6009. diotheatre.com Free
The play that inspired the 1956 film, starring Marilyn Monroe. In the middle of a snowstorm, a bus out of Kansas City has to take refuge in a roadside diner. Show through March 1.
3 tuesday Opening Night: Once
$40-$140. Fisher Theater, 3011 W Grand Blvd. 313-872-1000. broadwayindetroit.com
See the story of a musician struggling with his passion, and a woman he meets who serves as his muse. Winner of the 2012 Best Musical Tony Award. Various times are available online. Show runs through February 15.
5 thursday Currents & Crossings
7:30pm Thursday, 8pm Friday & Saturday, and 2pm Sunday. $10-$28. University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance, 1100 Baits Dr. 734-764-0583. music.umich.edu/ performances_events
Choreography by guest Richard Alston and faculty Jessica Fogel, Sandra Torijano, and Robin Wilson in a spectacular evening of modern dance. Show runs until February 8.
Shen Yun 2015
7:30pm. $80-$180. Detroit Opera House, 1526 Broadway. 888-974-3698. shenyunperformingarts.com
A spectacular dance and musical experience, celebrating ancient Chinese culture. Runs all weekend, Sunday and Saturday have an additional matinee at 2pm.
theater
Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase Presents: Derek Richards
8pm Thursday-Saturday, 10:30pm Friday & Saturday. $13-$15. Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase, 212 S. Fourth Ave. 734-996-9080. aacomedy.com
A Detroit native who now lives in Florida, Richards is known for his fast-paced stream of sarcastic, often hysterically livid observations about everything from phone solicitors and computers to Taco Bell and the experience of dating an exotic dancer. Show runs until February 7.
6 friday Singin’ in the Rain
7:30pm. Price TBA. Tappan Middle School, 2251 E. Stadium Blvd. showtix4u.com
This season, Burns Park Players present the charming and delightful musical comedy, Singin’ in the Rain. Based on the iconic 1952 MGM film starring Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynolds, this lighthearted tale centers on Don Lockwood, a movie star who falls in love while navigating the changing world of showbiz, as silent films make way for ”talking pictures.” Also showing the 7th at 2pm.
You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown
7:30pm. $12. Huron High School New Theater, 2727 Fuller Rd. 734-994-2040. aaps.k12.mi.us/huron.huron_players/ home
Clark Gesner’s musical comedy from 1967, featuring the lovable characters from Charles Shultz’s Peanuts.
Opening Night: The Birthday Party
$15. Sponberg Theatre, 124 Quirk Hall, EMU Campus. 734-487-2377.emutix.com
Come see an absurdist black comedy that teeters on the edge of sanity and madness, the mundane and the mayhem. Find times online. Runs through the February 15.
7 saturday Auditions of Disney’s 101 Dalmatians A2CT Rehearsal Studio, 322 W. Ann St. 734-971-2228. a2ct.org Free
9:30am. Try out for the Junior Theatre production of the musical Disney’s 101 Dalmatians Kids, directed by Caitlin Rowe. Another audition chance is on February 9 at 4pm. Callbacks, if needed, are Wednesday, February 11 at 4pm. Those auditioning should attend one of the two regular audition dates and be available for callbacks.
8 sunday Closing Night: Tick… Tick… Boom!
2pm. $15. Ann Arbor Civic Theatre Studio Theater, 322 W. Ann St. 734-971-2228. a2ct.org
From the author of RENT comes an autobiographical musical about the courage it takes to follow your dreams. This is the final performance.
12 thursday Under The African Sky
10:30am Thursday and Friday, noon on Friday, and 11am Saturday. Towsley Auditorium, 4800 E. Huron River Dr. $8-$10. 734-995-0530. wildswantheater.org
This award-winning local children’s theater presents a series of African folktales. With drumming and other music. Geared toward kids ages 4-10. As with all Wild Swan productions, the performance is interpreted in American Sign Language. Audio description and backstage “touch” tours are available by prearrangement for blind audience members. Show runs until February 14.
13 friday Distracted
8pm. $15. Barefoot Productions Theatre, 240 N. Main St., Plymouth. 734-560-1493. justgobarefoot.com
A dark comedy about ADD and the modern family. Runs February 13, 14, 15 and 20, 21, 22. Sunday showings at 2pm.
14 saturday Anything Goes
2pm. $25-$69. The Whiting, 1241 E. Kearsley St., Flint eventful.com/anything-goes
View this saucy and splendid production of Anything Goes, winner of three 2011 Tony Awards including Best Musical Revival and Choreography. Peppering this Cole Porter first-class comedy are some of musical theater’s most memorable standards.
Opening Night: Compagnie Non Nova 2pm. $20. Skyline High School, 2555 S. State St. 734-994-2200. ums.org
A whimsical story about the life expectancy of a plastic bag, find out with a show that uses a wind turbine in the show, for an interesting visual. Through February 20.
15 sunday Closing Night: Yellowman 2pm. $12.50-$39.Performance Network Theatre, 120 E. Huron St. 734-663-0681. pntheatre.org
A two-person multi-character love story about racial identity, as two people from separate backgrounds are tied together by fate. Written by Dael Orlandersmith.
18 wednesday Confetti Sunrise
7:30pm. Duderstadt Center Video Art Studio, 2281 Bonisteel Blvd. dc.umich.edu Free
A performance in the “Meanings and Makings of Queer Dance” performance series curated by assistant professor Clare Croft. The performance will feature works by Peter Carpenter, Nic Gareiss, Ricki Mason, Postnatyam Dance Ensemble, and Anna Martine Whitehead, and will span dance genres from Kathak to burlesque, contemporary modern dance to Irish step dancing. Running the 19th as well.
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theater
19 thursday
Ice Fishing on Stage Guys On Ice, an ice fishing musical comedy set in a Northern Wisconsin shanty, follows two pals as they talk and sing about life, love, and the one that got away. Lloyd and Marvin keep warm with a mutual appreciation for good bait, cold beer, and the Green Bay Packers. As Marvin anxiously awaits his opportunity to appear on a cable TV fishing show and share secrets of his life on da’ lake, Lloyd ponders a recent squabble with his wife concerning plans to spend their anniversary at Lambeau Field. Both pals scramble to rg/ protect their cold ones from fellow an.o e tr a e coreth gler, Ernie the Moocher. Through February 22, f theen o y s e court Thursdays, 7pm; Fridays, 8pm; Saturdays, 3:00pm and 8pm; Photo Sundays 3:00pm. The Encore Theater, 3126 Broad Street, Dexter, MI 48130, (734) 268-6200, theencoretheatre.org
Opening Night: Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike
8pm. $12-$18. The Riverside Arts Center, 76 N. Huron St., Ypsilanti. 734-483-7345. ptdproductions.com
A funny comedy written by Christopher Durang, winner of the New York Drama Critics best play, explores the universal topic of sibling rivalry, change, and self-acceptance as he plays with Chekovian characters and themes. Showtimes include February 19-22, 24 and 26-28. Additional matinees on February 22 and February 24 at 2pm.
Opening Night: Stupid F**ing Bird
7:30pm Thursday, 8pm Friday & Saturday, 2pm Sunday. $10-$28. Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre, 911 N University Ave. 734-763-3333. music.umich.edu/performances_ events
An irreverent, contemporary,
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and very funny remix of Chekhov’s The Seagull. This play contains profanity. Show runs until February 28.
Opening Night: The Tempest
7:30pm Thursday, 8pm Friday and Saturday, 2pm Sunday. $17, $10/students. Walgreen Drama Center: Arthur Miller Theatre, 1226 Murfin Ave. 734-764-2538. umich.edu/~muto/venues.html
U-M Musical Theater students present Shakespeare’s culminating work, featuring romance, sorcerers, and a beautiful Miranda. Show runs until February 22.
Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase Presents Dan Grueter
8pm Thursday-Saturday, 10:30pm Friday & Saturday. $10-$13. Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase, 212 S. Fourth Ave. 734-996-9080. aacomedy.com
Fast-rising young Ohio-bred comic, a frequent guest on late-night TV who’s known for his wry, quick-witted, and very funny observational humor. Preceded by 2 opening acts. Alcohol is served. Show runs until February 22.
20 friday Let’s Murder Marsha
6:30pm. $TBA. Chelsea Community Hospital Dining Room, 775 S. Main St., Chelsea. cheleaseareaplayers.org
In this comedy by Monk Ferris, a happy housewife named Marsha, a woman with a hopeless addiction to reading murder mysteries. She eavesdrops on her husband as he discusses her birthday surprise plans, and she thinks he’s planning her murder! Runs the following Saturday and Sunday, with a 1pm Matinee on Sunday.
Opening Night: Macbeth
$15.50-$18.50. The Fairchild Theatre, 220 Trowbridge Rd., E. Lansing. 1-800-942-7866. theatre.msu.edu
The Scottish play examines politics and power. Madness. Ambition. Blood. And witches. One of the most recognizable of Shakespeare’s tragedies consumes the Fairchild stage. Showtimes found online. Show runs through March 1.
theater 22 sunday National Theater Live: Treasure Island
3pm. $22. The Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8463. michtheater.org
See the filmed theater production. Robert Louis Stevenson’s story of murder, money and mutiny is brought to life in a thrilling new stage adaptation by Bryon Lavery. It’s a dark, stormy night. The stars are out. Jim, the inn-keeper’s granddaughter, opens the door to a terrifying stranger.
23 monday Much Ado About Nothing Auditions
6-7:30pm. The Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor, 2935 Birch Hollow Dr. 734-971-0990. aayag.org Free
The Ann Arbor Youth Actor’s Guild holds auditions of the witty Shakespeare play, that runs May 8th through the 10th. (Grades 2-7).
24 tuesday Guest Dance Performance: Hou Ying and Peng Zhang
7pm. Keene Theater, 701 E. University Ave. 734-764-1817. umich.edu Free
Hou Ying is a founding member of Shen Wei Dance Arts, choreographer, and artistic director of HouYingDance based in Beijing. Zhang Peng, is the professor of dance at the Shanghai University of Sport, choreographer, and vocalist focusing on traditional folk music of the Tujia ethnic group from southwestern Hunan Province, China.
26 thursday Suzanne Westenhoefer
8pm. $26. The Ark, 316 S. Main St. 734-761-1451. theark.org
Brave, bold, comedy from an LGBT voice, bringing her real life experiences in a unique style of comedy.
28 saturday Sister Act
21 sunday UMS Dance: Trisha Brown Dance Company 8pm. $26-$48. Power Center, 121 Fletcher St. 734-647-3327. music. umich.edu/performances_events
Trisha Brown has redefined modern dance throughout her 40-year career as a choreographer. Starting as an experimental dancer of the Judson Dance Theater, Brown has created over 100 dance works since 1961. Now at 77, Brown presents this tour entitled “Proscenium Works,” which showcases her major stage works, pulling from a lifetime of gems. Also showing the 22nd at 2pm.
3pm & 2pm. $34-$69. The Whiting, 1241 E. Kearsley St, Flint.
Come see Broadway’s feelamazing musical comedy smash. The New York Post calls it “ridiculously fun” and audiences are jumping to their feet in total agreement. Featuring original music by 8-time Oscar winner Alan Menken
Searchable lists updated daily at ecurrent.com
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art
Art Beat Faculty Exhibition at the Stamps
By Louis Meldman Art faculty shows are always fun. We get a glimpse at what the accomplished artists who teach our up-and-coming artists are up to. In Ann Arbor, of course, “faculty exhibition” means the University of Michigan Penny W. Stamps School of Art & Design, named after the woman (and former U-M art student) who bequeathed so generously that they named the school after her, and rightly so. This year’s show comprises the work of 31 faculty members, from instructors and assistant professors to associate and full professors who have expressed themselves in a dazzling array of media. Keep an eye out for the clay works of instructor Kate Tremel. For the past two decades she has been one of the most beloved and acclaimed potters in Ann Arbor, showing at leading local galleries including the Ann Arbor Art Center, and at her own studio where she hosts an annual show with her equally talented artist friends. Tremel employs her signature “paddle and anvil” technique, which she learned on a trip to Peru through the MFA program at the Cranbrook Academy of Art. Using her hands and her feet and a wooden paddle and a river stone, she coaxes sensual pieces from the earth. The result is reminiscent of Minoan pitchers and indigenous North and South American earthenware. Tremel is a natural-born ceramicist. “I love the physicality of clay,” she says, “getting dirty and earthy.”
Minoan Sculptures
Also notable: the work of sculptor and professor Louis (“Lou”) Marinaro, who has held a full-time position at the art school since 1982. Concurrently with his position at U-M he served for 10 years as a visiting lecturer at the New York Academy of Art in Manhattan. He has received the Amoco Distinguished Teaching Award and the UM Teaching Excellence Award. As a sculptor, Marinaro has a vast international following both publicly and in private collections. Two of his works are permanently installed on the UM campus. One is the stately “Wave Maker” (1988) on East Hoover. It depicts a pine tree reflected in a pool of water and a woman stirring the
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“Nelson Mandela” by Associate U-M Professor David Turnley
water with a willow branch. The second, “The Regeneration of Time” (1996) on Glen Avenue on the Medical Campus, is a stunning father-mother-child nude, representing the loving circle of life. Marinaro says, “My art is based on both what I imagine and what I perceive. My intention is to lead the viewer to imagine and perceive the world in a new way.”
Turnley images
Associate Professor David Turnley shouldn’t need much introduction. He is the finest documentary photographer in the world. He has won a Pulitzer Prize, two World Press Photos of the Year, and the Robert Capa Award for Courage for capturing the horror of war-torn countries around the world. You’ve seen dozens of his images, even if you didn’t know that they were his. Turnley earned his B.A. in French Literature from the UM Residential College and a diploma from the Sorbonne in Paris. He studied filmmaking at Harvard. He was a staff photographer at the Detroit Free Press from 1980 to 1998. He documented apartheid in South Africa and became close friends with Nelson Mandela and his family, all of which are depicted in his seventh and most recent book, “Mandela: In Times of Struggle and Triumph.” He was based in Paris from 1987 to 1997 and from there covered the Persian Gulf War, the revolution in Eastern Europe, student unrest in China and the collapse of the Soviet Union. (At this point I should just say “etc.”) He’s gone on to direct and produce three documentary films: “Dalai Lama: At Home and in Exile,” for CNN; “La Tropical,” called the most sensual film ever shot in Cuba; and “Shenandoah,” about the tough coal region of Pennsylvania (available on Netflix) which was awarded “Best Documentary Film,” and for Turnley, “Best Director” in 2013 by the NewFilmmakers Los Angeles. Runs through Tuesday, February 20. Monday through Friday: 9am - 5pm, Saturday: 12 - 5pm. FREE. The Slusser is on the 1st floor of the A&D building at 2000 Bonisteel Blvd. on North Campus and Work is at 306 State Street on Central Campus. stamps.umich.edu
art
Meditations on Paper
All Week
Try It Once on the Wheel
1pm-2:30pm. $40. Yourist Studio Gallery, 1133 Broadway St. 734-662-4914. youristpottery.com
An opportunity to sit down at the pottery wheel and see how it feels to try throw a pot. Demonstrations and guidance provided.
1 sunday Re-Imaging Gender
10am. Lane Hall, 204 S. State St. umich.edu Free
This juried art exhibition features the work of 15 promising artists who take on one of the most important challenges facing contemporary art: how to render the modern spectrum of gender, going beyond the simple male/female binary to include a wide variety of identities and sexualities. Exhibit will be displayed through June 26.
First Friday Ypsilanti Exhibition Bona Sera Cafe, 200 W. Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti. 734-340-6335. eatypsi.com
Exhibition “Cocooning” will be displayed at Bona Sera. Tuesday-Thursday, 11am-9pm. Friday 11am-10pm.
2 monday First day: Painting with Acrylics 6-9pm. $225. VEO Art Studio, 114 N. Main St., Chelsea.
This 6-week class begins today, and hones skills required to master the medium of acrylic. This class is geared towards beginner students, and takes place every following Monday until March 9.
3 tuesday Art of Mandala: Art & Meditation
1pm. $45. VEO Art Studio, 114 N. Main St., Suite 8, Chelsea. 734-417-6326. register.veoartstudio.com
This one-day workshop is an introduction to the unique art of the Mandala - a sacred circle which contains artistry that represents the deeper aspect of existence.
1980 Gelating Silver Print, UMMA, Gift of Mrs. Marion Hrebek Keyes, 1990/1.236
Czech photographer Hana Hamplova will display her works at the University of Michigan Museum of Art. Hamplova developed her body of work, which examines how access to the written word affects society and drives at the fragility of written history, during the 1970s. February 21 through August 29. Free. Tuesday through Saturday, 11 am–5 pm & Sunday 12–5 pm. 525 S. State St. 734-764-0395. --RC
Noon Lecture Series at U-M Center for Chinese Studies
Noon. School of Social Work Building - Room 1636, 1080 S. University Ave. 734-764-6308. umich.edu Free
University of California Riverside Art History Professor J.P. Park on “The Anxiety of Influence: (Mis)reading Chinese Art in Late Choson Korea.” Free sandwiches, cookies, and coffee served.
5 thursday Penny W. Stamps Speaker Series: Kiki Van Eljk
5pm. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8463. michtheater.org Free
A designer with a strong personal touch, Kiki van Eijk represents the new generation of Dutch designers. Her playful work balances concept, material, structure and technique in projects that include carpets, lighting, furniture, ceramics, glassware and luxurious textiles.
6 friday History of Art Symposium: Part II: Allan Sekula and Sally Stein
1-5:30pm. UMMA: Helmut Stern Auditorium, 525 S. State St. 734-764-0395. umma.umich.edu Free
This discussion topic will be “Contemporary Strategies in Documentary Photography.”
Guided Tours: Tradition Transformed
2pm. UMMA, 525 S. State St. 734-764-0395. umma.umich.edu Free
This exhibition features the work of Chang Ku-nien (19061987), a versatile and proficient practitioner of the ancient tradition of Chinese painting, and explores his development as an artist over a lifetime. Every Wednesday until February 20.
Dance of the Neurons 5-6:30pm U-M Museum of Natural History, 1109 Geddes Ave. 734-764-0478. lsa.umich.edu
Join the opening reception for Museum of Natural History’s new exhibit. Beautiful full-color images of microscopic cell structures combine delicate art with cutting-edge science. The images were selected from the BioArtography project of the
Hana Hamplova, untitled U-M Center for Organogenesis in support of the Museum of Natural History’s winter term programming on brain science. Exhibit runs from February 1 through May 31.
Opening: Death Dogs: The Jackal of Ancient Egypt Kelsey Museum of Archaeology, 434 S. State St. 734-764-9304. lsa.umich.edy/kelsey Free
This special exhibition explores the mysterious jackal-headed gods from ancient Egyptian culture and mythology, associated with death and the afterlife. Exhibition runs until May 3. Tuesdays through Fridays, 9am-4pm.Saturdays and Sundays, 1-4pm.
Black History Month Opening Reception 5-7pm. Riverside Art Studio 76 N. Huron St. 734-480-2787. riversidearts.org Free
Opening reception for an exhibition of local area African American artists of all ages. Exhibit runs from February 5-28. Monday-Thursday, 10am-6pm. Friday, 10am-8pm. Saturday, 9am-8pm. Sunday 9am-6pm.
Competition & Collaboration: How Renaissance Artists & Patrons Got the Best From One Another 6pm. $8, Free with museum admission. Detroit Institute of Arts, 5200 Woodward Ave. 313-833-7900. dia.org
Explore the Renaissance in all its feuds and friendships, conflict and cooperation, that led to the creation of some of the era’s most famous paintings and sculptures. An additional talk takes place on Sunday 8 at 2pm.
12 thursday Dirty Show
7pm-2am. $30. Russell Industrial Center, 1600 Clay St. 313-872-4000. dirtyshow.org
The 16th International Erotic Art Exhibition returns with special guest John Waters is this year’s special guest on this date. The event also runs on the 13th, 14th, 20th and 21st.
Penny W. Stamps Speaker Series: Elizabeth Streb
5pm. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8463. michtheater.org Free
The preeminent Extreme Action Architect, Elizabeth Streb is a rascal, a genius, and dance’s answer to punk rock.
13 friday Guided Tours: An Economy of Means
2pm. UMMA, 525 S. State St. 734-764-0395. umma.umich.edu Free
Dorothy an Herbery Vogel began collecting in the early 1960s, with a focus on minimal and conceptual art, though they also embraced a wide range of post-minimal practices as well as new figurative directions that emerged in the 1980s. Experience their collection in this guided tour. Every Friday until February 21.
Oil Painting Workshop
9:30am-3pm. $95. P Christie Art Studio, 10417 Merrill Rd., Hamburg. 734-552-9080. pchristieart.com
Paint a beautiful wilderness mountain landscape over 2 days with 8 hours of instruction for all ages and levels of expertise. BYO materials. Second class on the following day.
14 saturday Opening Day: HE: The Hergott Shepard Photography Collection
UMMA, 525 S. State St. 734-764-0395. umma.umich.edu Free
This exhibition features works from Hergott Shepard’s vast holdings in photography. Guest curator Mario Codognato examines the lives of men in contemporary Western societies - with all their contradictions - through themes of competition and solidarity, confrontation with identity, and diverse explorations of the body and sexuality (as both sign and experience). Tuesday through Saturday 11am-5pm; closed Mondays. Sunday noon-5pm. Exhibit open until June 14.
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art
The Art of Taxidermy Beyond the eye of the beholder
Gregory’s love for animals inspired his approach to the trade.
By Brandon Bye
When you step inside Allen Gregory’s showroom you get an overwhelming sense you are being watched, the sense that you are the one on display, and that is exactly his aim. “It’s not in the antlers,” Gregory says, “it’s in the eyes.” Gregory, the sole owner and operator of Buckie’s Taxi‑ dermy, has always had a love for animals. “I always had pets,” he said, “and I had a lot of stuffed animals as a kid, like the stuffed animals you have in your bed.” And his father and grandfather encouraged his interest in nature by taking him hunting as a boy. When his first mount came back from a taxidermist, he studied it, and years later, in 1984, he began experimenting on his own.
A class leads to a career
“After about six years, I knew that if I wanted to be successful at it, I needed to take a class. So I took one with a renowned taxidermist in Iowa named Joe Meder. After that I really knew what I was supposed to be looking for.” Buckie, the whitetail buck Gregory raised from fawn and named his business after, passed away in 2007 after giving him 12 years of reference material to work from. According to Gregory, the goal of taxidermy is to create an
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animal mount that looks alive. Just as John James Audu‑ bon based his paintings on extensive field observations, Gregory bases his taxidermy on his extensive studies of Buckie. “It’s like creating a realistic painting of a forest.. Some taxidermists—amateurs and hobby guys—can’t see it. They’ll look at the forest and just paint it all green. You’ve got to be detailed, know how the eyes set.” He takes me from the showroom to his workshop and shows me an African blesbok antelope mold made of petroleum‑based expandable foam, which he orders from the manufacturer “like a pair of pants—they come in every inch.” He places a set of horns on top of the mold, and then pulls open the drawer of a tall, red tool chest and digs through a variety of glass eyes. “Here’s the set that will go on the blesbok.” He holds up a set of dark eyes, puts them on the bench beside the mold, and goes back to the drawer. “These are for a mink. These are walleye fish eyes.” He fingers his way through the drawer. “Bobcat. Sheep. Fox.” He holds up a small set and drops them back in the drawer. “I have no idea what those are for.”
art Closing: Admired Artists Exhibition
WSG Gallery, 306 S. Main St. 734-761-2287. wsg-art.com Free
Members of the WSG Gallery picked artists that inspire them, and their artwork is displayed in this exhibition. Noon-6pm Tuesday, noon-9am WednesdaySaturday, noon-5pm Sunday.
Frederick Wiseman: Welfare
3pm. $8.50. Detroit Institute of Arts, 5200 Woodward Ave. 313-833-7900. dia.org
In his photographs documenting the day-to-day workings of New York City’s government assistance programs in the mid-1970s, Frederick Wiseman’s incomparable Welfare shows the nature and complexity of the welfare system in sequences illustrating the staggering diversity of problems that constitute welfare.
16 monday David Zinn: Ann Arbor Artists
With a streak of excitement in his eye, he pulls out another set. “Ever drive down the road at night and see a pair of eyes looking at you through the darkness?” He holds up a set of reflective, glowing eyes. “These are fun, but mostly the eyes are all the same. It’s how you set them. The focal point of any animal is the eyes.” We walk back to his showroom. The theme song to the Andy Griffith Show, playing from the 16’’ TV in the upper corner of his workshop, comes with us. He tells me about his African animal collection, pointing to a stack of DVDs containing hours of footage of zebras, antelopes, wild hogs, and monkeys that he uses for reference. “I have a baboon in the freezer,” he says. “I don’t know how it’s going to turn out.” How the animal is treated after it has been shot, which has a large effect on the taxidermy process, is hit or miss. “It’s going to a guy in Las Vegas though.” Before I go, Gregory shows me two mounts. “This is a mount I did; this is a mount someone else brought to me to have redone. Can you see the difference? Look at the eyes.” The eyes on the mount that his client sent for reworking bulge out without eyelids. The mount looks like a literal deer in the headlights—minus the glow. “The deer should look alert but relaxed.”.
7-8pm. Jackson Square Plaza, 4844 Jackson Rd. 734-662-6671. Free
This well-known local street artist, illustrator, and designer discusses his work.
20 friday Artini
7-10pm. $50-$80. Downtown Ann Arbor. 734-926-4122. annarborcenter.org
Ann Arbor’s downtown bars and restaurants will try their skills at creating the most artistic martini in town. Participants vote for their favorite Artini of the night.
ing the 1970s. Open Tuesdays through Saturdays 11am-5pm; closed Mondays, Sundays 12-5pm.
25 wednesday
Mavericks: The Shape of Things to Come 7pm. Free with museum admission/$8. Detroit Institute of Arts, 5200 Woodward Ave. 313-833-7900. dia.org
Addressing new intellectual frontiers as specialists discuss developments in hybrids of creative outputs.
27 friday
Closing: Denise Wood - Art Exhibit
Common Cup Coffeehouse, 1511 Washtenaw Ave. 734-327-6914. commoncupcoffee.com Free
Denise uses the versatility of acrylic paints to add texture and dimension in mixed media works. She paints flowers, to represent her blooming as a mother. Mon-Fri, 8:30am10pm. Saturday. Noon-5pm. Sundays 8:30am-5pm.
Ongoing Sundays
Ann Arbor Poetry Slam
8-11pm. $5 Suggested Donation. Silvio’s Organic Pizza, 715 N. University Ave. 734-985-0736.
Every Sunday, Poets are invited to compete in a poetry slam, judged by randomly chosen panel from the audience. Program begins and usually ends in a brief poetry open mic and short set by a featured poet.
21 saturday Opening Day: Hana Hamplová: Meditations on Paper
UMMA, 525 S. State St. 734-764-0395. umma.umich.edu Free
Czech photographer Hana Hamplova will display her works at the University of Michigan Museum of Art. Hamplova developed her body of work, which examines how access to the written word affects society and drives at the fragility of written history, dur-
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current reads
Local Reads Wednesday 4
Zell Visiting Writers Series
Photo: Reid Shimabukuro
5:15pm. UMMA: Helmut Stern Auditorium, 525 S. State St. 734-764-1354. umma.umich.edu Free
Adam Haslett, a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award, and the writer of a New York Times Bestseller (You Are Not A Stranger Here), graces the stage. Thursday 5
Emerging Writers: Where in the World is Your Hero? 7-8:45pm. Ann Arbor District Library: Traverwood Branch, 3334 Traver Rd. 734-327-4555. aadl.org Free
Local young adult fiction writer Lara Zielin discusses how to engage readers in your fictions. For adults and teens.
Alton Takiyama Chung, guest storyteller
Tuesday 10
Ron Gries Discusses His Book Through Death to Life 6:30-8pm. AADL Malletts Creek Branch: Program Room, 3090 E. Eisenhower Pkwy. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free
Ron Gries began to write during the last years of his wife’s life and continued after she died. He later turned his writing into a book entitled Through Death to Life, which offers insight and support to those who grieve the loss of their spouse or family member. Wednesday 11
Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti Reads Author: Ruth Ozeki
7-9pm. Rackham Auditorium, 915 E. Washington St. 734-327-4555. aadl.org Free
Author Ruth Ozeki is a novelist, filmmaker, and Zen Buddhist priest. She is the award-winning author of three novels, My Year of Meats, All Over Creation, and A Tale for the Time Being. Her critically acclaimed independent films, including Halving the Bones, have been screened at Sundance and aired on PBS. She will lead a discussion of her new book A Tale for the Time Being followed by a signing.
Darwin: Books, Beetles, and Blasphemy
7pm-8:30pm. Downtown District Library: Multi Purpose Room, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4555. aadl.org Free
Washtenaw Community College biology professor David A. Wooten leads an insightful and unique discussion on the life and legacy of Charles Darwin. Thursday 12
Four Perfect Pebbles: A Talk with Holocaust Survivor and Author Marion Blumenthal Lazan 7-8:30pm. Downtown District Library: 4th Floor Meeting Room, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-8301. aadl.org Free
Author Marion Blumenthal Lazan will share her message
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of understanding and tolerance through recounting her experience as a young girl interned by the Nazis during WWII. Friday 13
Writers Series
7pm. Brewed Awakenings Café, 7025 E. Michigan Ave., Suite M, Saline. 734-668-0078. brewedawakeningscafe.com Free
A local writer (TBA) visits and discusses their work. Wednesday 18
Zell Visiting Writers Series: Ron Carlson 5:15 pm. UMMA: Helmut Stern Auditorium, 525 S. State St. 734-764-0395. umma.umich.edu Free
Ann Arbor Storytelling Guild “Sight isolates, sound incorporates. Whereas sight situates the observer outside what he views, at a distance, sound pours into the hearer.” --Walter J. Ong, Orality and Literacy The ancient tradition of oral storytelling lives on through the Ann Arbor Storytelling Guild. Join some Ann Arbor raconteurs at The Ark’s 28th Annual Storytelling Festival. Listen as they guide you through narratives of heroes and adversaries, conflict and resolution. February 21. $20. The following night is the Storytelling Festival for Kids. February 22. $10. Tickets available at theark.org. The Ark, 316 S. Main St. 734-761-1451 --RC
Ron Carlson is the awardwinning author of four story collections and four novels, most recently The Signal and Five Skies.
The U-M Institute for the Humanities presents the NYC based French novelist and journalist as she talks about some aspects of her work.
Wednesday 25
Thursday 19
Friday 20
The Ark’s 28th Annual Storytelling Festival
Reading by Glenn Sheldon, a University of Toledo humanities professor, followed by poetry and short fiction open mic.
Hear the best of Ann Arbor’s raconteurs share their best stuff.
ONGOING:
Charles Baxter - There’s Something I Want You To Do: Stories
7pm. Nicola’s Books, 2513 Jackson Ave. 734-662-0600. nicolasbooks.com Free
Penetrating and prophetic, the ten inter-related stories in There’s Something I Want You to Do are held together by a surreally intricate web of cause and effect-one that slowly ensnares both fictional bystanders and enraptured readers.
Books and Banter
1:30-2:30pm. Chelsea District Library - Mckune Room, 221 S. Main St. 734-475-8732. chelseadistrictlibrary.org Free
Come discuss Kabul Beauty School by Deborah Rodriguez. Open to everyone, and a copy of the book is available at the office.
Celine Curiol
2pm. U-M Institute for the Humanities Building, 202 S. Thayer St. 734-936-3518. umich.edu/events Free
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7pm. $20.The Ark, 316 S. Main St. 734-761-1451. theark.org
Crazy Wisdom Monthly Book Discussion
7:30-9am. Crazy Wisdom Bookstore & Tearoom, 114 S. Main St. 734-665-2757. crazywisdom.net Free
“Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life by Marshall B. Rosenberg” is an international bestseller that uses stories, role-plays, and real-world examples to introduce the nonviolent communication process. Far more than simple techniques, Rosenberg demonstrates how to transform thinking, language, and moralistic judgments that can impede the quality of your relationships. Hosted by Rachel Pastiva.
An Evening of Poetry and Written Word
7-9pm. Crazy Wisdom Bookstore & Tearoom, 114 S. Main St. 734-665-2757. crazywisdom.net Free
Wednesdays
Mystery Lovers Book Group 2pm. Ypsilanti District LibraryWhittaker: Conference Room 1C, 5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti. 734-482-4110. ypsilibrary.org Free
Join other amateur sleuths once a month to discuss mystery novels.
Tuesdays
African American Authors Book Group 7pm. Ypsilanti District LibraryWhittaker, 5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti. 734-482-4110. ypsilibrary.org Free
Meet new people and discuss books together. Explore the works of great African American Authors in a group setting.
ts More event a e n onli com ecurrent.
everything else NEW CURRENT COLUMN !
Point of View Passenger Pigeons: The Afterlife By Stephanie Carpenter
A drawer inside a white cabinet has been pulled open to reveal its contents: passenger pigeons, more than a dozen, laid on their backs in two neat rows. On each stuffed specimen, the gray and black wings are folded against the body and a white tag hangs from one leg. A caption reads, “The only place to find a passenger pigeon today is in a museum.” I find four passenger pigeons in a corner exhibit on the fourth floor of the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History. The walls of this small space are arrayed with educational panels that deploy facts, descriptions, drawings, and photos (including the one above) to commemorate this extinct avian species. A panel at the beginning of the exhibit asks me to imagine flocks that once numbered in the billions, a sight that Aldo Leopold described as a “feathered tempest.” My mind’s eye fails me. The largest group of birds I’ve ever seen was a few hundred starlings hunched together on telephone wires. Due to a lack of imagination and experience, I have to rely on the exhibit’s historical accounts of these massive flocks. “The air was literally filled with pigeons; the light of noon-day was obscured as by an eclipse,” reads one panel, quoting Audubon. “The pigeons were still passing in undiminished numbers, and continued to do so for three days in succession.” On another panel, the flock portrayed in Lewis Cross’s painting Passenger Pigeons in Flight resembles a long river meandering through golden skies. Pigeons in the
foreground are so detailed that I can count their primary and secondary flight feathers. Back near the horizon, the flock narrows to a line. This is only half the painting, though. Below the throng, men harvesting a field raise their guns and fists in opposition. Piles of dead pigeons accumulate alongside sheaves of grain. How people saw the passenger pigeon—as a threat to crops, as an inexhaustible source of meat, or as a creature of grace and beauty—determined this bird’s survival. How we see the pigeon today—as the loss of a bygone era or a call to action in the face of mass extinctions—might determine the survival of other species. I not only look at the pigeons, but I look at the people looking at the pigeons. A college-aged couple spends five quiet minutes in the exhibit. In one corner, three children, accompanied by three adults, participate in an interactive exercise asking them to “Write a poem for the pigeons” on yellow Post-it notes, which they then stick to the wall. As for the surviving skins of what was once the most plentiful bird in North America? They perch behind glass, isolated in display cases. As I circle round a male specimen, an iridescent patch of feathers on his neck changes colors, from rose to orange to yellow to lime. His throat and breast are a wash of rufous amid the gray coloring of his head, back, and wings. His glassy black eyes reflect only the museum lighting. University of Michigan, 1109 Geddes Ave. 734-764-0478. Monday - Saturday 9-5, Sunday 12-5. ecurrent.com / february 2015 33
everything else
1 sunday I Am Natural Hair Exhibit 9am-10pm. EMU Student Center, 900 Oakwood Ave., Ypsilanti. 734-487-2377.emich.edu/cma Free
To promote natural hair movement. People’s natural hair styles will be showcased in the “I Am Natural” posters, to represent people who wear their hair naturally. Runs all week, until February 8.
3 tuesday Brown Bag Lecture
Huron Gun Collectors Inc. Gun Show
Nothing says Happy Valentine’s day like a date to the gun show. Local firearm collectors and vendors display specialty weapons and collectibles for show and sale. Expect table holders to be friendly, open to negotiation, and gregarious. Free. Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds 5055 Ann Arbor Saline Road, Ann Arbor. Saturday, February 14, 9am - 4pm, Sunday, 15, 9am - 3pm.
12:30-1:30pm. U-M Institute for the Humanities, 202 S. Thayer St. 734-936-3518. lsa.umich.edu/humanities Free
University of Queensland literature professor Gillian Whitlock presents “The Hospitality of Cyberspace,” a talk about maritime voyages filmed and narrated by asylum seekers creating their own testimonial narratives to be disseminated through both conventional and new media. Bring a bag lunch.
4 wednesday Electronic Music Production Class
7-8:30pm. Downtown Library: Training Center, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-8301. aadl.org Free
Veteran Detroit sound designer and dance music DJ Mike Huckaby introduces adults and teens in grade 6 & up to making electronic music.
Transmutation Technology for LongLived Nuclear Wastes
4pm. West Hall: Room 340, 1085 S. University. 734-763-2588. umich.edu Free
Japan Atomic Energy Agency deputy director of strategic planning Hiroyuki Oigawa discusses promising research into technology that would make radioactive waste more stable.
5 thursday Smarty Pants Trivia Smackdown
8pm-9:30pm. Chelsea Alehouse, 420 N. Main St., Suite 100 734-475-8732. chelseaalehouse.com Free
All invited to round up 6 people to compete in a 5-round trivia contest. Prizes for the top 2 teams.
7 saturday Recycling Plant (MRF) Open House: America Recycles Day
10am-noon. Ann Arbor’s Material Recovery Facility, 339 E. Liberty St. 734-663-9474.ecocenter.org/education/mrf-open-house. Free
Learn how paper is remade and try it our yourself. Bring home a beautiful, hand-crafted paper card for your valentine.
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8 sunday Behind the Scenes Day Museum of Natural History, 1109 Geddes Ave. 734-764-0478. lsa.umich.edu Free
Behind the Scenes Day is a rare opportunity to visit behind the scenes at the four museums of the Ruthven Museums Building at the University of Michigan. The Museum of Anthropological Archaeology, Museum of Natural History, Museum of Paleontology, and Museum of Zoology welcome you into collections areas, research laboratories, exhibit preparation areas, and other spaces not usually open to the public. Registration required.
10 tuesday Brown Bag Lecture
12:30-1:30pm. U-M Institute for the Humanities, 202 S. Thayer St. 734-936-3518. lsa.umich.edu/humanities Free
University of Chicago English professor Hillary Chute on “The Work of Alison Bechdel.”
11 wednesday Build a Workplace People Love – Just Add Joy: Rich Sheridan 11:45am-1pm. $5. Conor O’Neill’s, 318 S. Main St. 734-272-4698. la2m.org
Rich Sheridan, CEO of Menlo Innovations, will explore what an intentionally joyful culture must choose as its focus. Sheridan will discuss what joy looks like, feels like, how it is organized.
12 thursday Piano Lounge Night with Ann Dahl
8pm. Tips appreciated. The Mix Studio Theater, 8 N. Washington St. 734-985-0875. emergentarts.com
Ann brings special vibrant soulfulness to the music of Patsy Cline, Tom Waits, Leonard Cohen, The Beatles, and lots more.
LGBT Youth Homelessness: A Dialogue on Safe Spaces 5-7pm. McKenney Hall - Guild, W. Cross St., Ypsilanti. 734-487-0020. emich.edu/cma Free
A dialogue with academic and community experts on at-risk kids and safe spaces. Participants will examine trends and explore possible solutions to a growing problem for LGBT youth.
The Vagina Monologues
8pm. $TBA. Student Center Auditorium, 900 Oakwood Ave., Ypsilanti. 734-487-0364. emutix.com
EMU’s 14th annual production of The Vagina Monologues! Based on dozens of interviews conducted with
road trip
Liberty and opera for all
Saturday 7 / Collingwood Arts Center
Opera sometimes gets a bad rap as a dated or unlistenable genre. But something happens when you start to pay attention to the Toledo Opera—you see young and enthusiastic faces pushing a simple message: Opera Ain’t No Drag. Join the Toledo Opera and the Pride of Toledo Foundation for the second installment of this creative, over-the-top event. Some of the area’s best drag queens will share the stage with incredible singers. Even those new to opera will enjoy the public display of playful selections. $15/general and $25/pair, online or at the door. 7pm, Saturday February 7. Collingwood Arts Center, 2413 Collingwood Blvd. 419-244-2787, OperaAintNoDrag2015.brownpapertickets.com — AC
Start your engines
Saturday 28th / Ford Field
Monster Jam returns to Detroit, with Grave Digger, Monster Mutt, Max-D, El Toro Loco, and many more ready to throw down and get muddy at Ford Field. Watch as the massive trucks race, wheelie, donut, slam through trailer homes, and ram each other in an array of competitions. Ear plugs are highly recommended. Saturday, February 28. Gates 5pm, show at 7pm. Kids, $10-$17.50, and adults, $20-$35, with front row seats $55 for all ages. Ford Field, 2000 Brush Street, Detroit. 313-262-2000. --RC women, the play addresses women's sexuality and the social stigma surrounding rape and abuse, creating a new conversation about and with women. Runs through February 14.
13 friday Laugh at Love with The Laugh Riot Dolls
9pm. $10. The Mix Studio Theater, 8 N. Washington St., Ypsilanti. 734-985-0875. emergentarts.com
Comedy troupe led by Heather Kozlakowski will entertain one night only event, which takes an irreverent look at love.
Professional Volunteer Corps Meeting
7pm. Professional Volunteer Corp Center, 1100 N Main St. a2pvc.org Free
This monthly meeting is an orientation for first-time visitors for singles 25 and older who want to meet new people, make friends, and get
involved in community volunteer projects.
14 saturday Seed Share: Project Grow
10pm-11:30pm. Downtown Home and Garden, 210 S. Ashley St. 734-975-6865. downtownhomeandgarden.com Free
Bring any kind of labeled seeds, be it flowers, vegetables, herbs, annuals, perennials, shrubs trees.
Vintage Valentine’s Day Dance
9-11pm. $5. Michigan Union Rogel Ballroom, 530 S. State St. 734-763-5750.uunions.umich.edu
Swing dance to some live Jazz by Alex Belhaj’s Crescent City Quartet. No partner needed, just some dancing shoes.
15 sunday
Off to the Races Friday, February 20th 5:30pm-8:00pm
Admission is free
Morris Lawrence Building at Washtenaw Community College 4800 Huron River Drive, Ann Arbor MI 48105
The Ann Arbor / Ypsilanti Regional Chamber's Foundation Gala is the annual fundraising event to benefit A2Y Chamber community initiatives. The event includes a silent auction of unique and valuable items. This will include community and business leaders, live entertainment including WCC’s Jazz Ensemble, delicious hors d’oeuvres and beverages provided by local restaurants and food vendors, networking and merriment.
There will be a big hat and bowtie contest with prizes for the winners!
Media Sponsor
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everything else
CONTINUED from P.35 Benefit for Motor City Pride/Equality Michigan 7:30pm. Necto, 516 E. Liberty St. $15-$20. 734-994-5436. necto.com
Untucked presents A Benefit for Motor City Pride/Equality Michigan featuring, from RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 7, Pearl & Violet Chachki. Hosted by Chanel Hunter, Jadein Black & Sabin Detroit. The show starts at 8:30pm, with additional shows at 10pm & Midnight, also a meet and greet with Pearl & Violet Chachki after the last show!
16 monday Detroit Derby Girls
6pm. $15/pre-order, $18/at the door. The Masonic Temple, 500 Temple St., detroitderbygirls.com
Detroit. Devil’s Night Dames Vs. Pistolwhippers & Detroit Pistoffs Vs. Grand Prix Madonnas.
Beyond the Binary: A Transgender Perspective 11am-12:30pm. Quirk Sponberg Theatre, 124 Quirk Hall. 734-487-1220.emich.edu Free
Lace up at rinks around A2. Here’s where to hit the ice.
Ann Arbor Ice Cube
The Cube is a traditional indoor skating rink— open year-round. Sign up for lessons or drop in for pick-up hockey or open skating. 121 Oak Valley Dr., Ann Arbor, (734) 213-1600 Costs: $4/adults, $3/kids (ages 12 and under), $3/skate rental. Public Skating: check www.a2ice3.com for updates
Buhr Park
This is an outdoor covered, open-air skating rink (chilly!). The rink sometimes has themed parties like Funky Frosty Fridays, where skaters dress in costume (bell bottoms on '70s night or cowboy hats at the Hoedown Skate). 2751 Packard Road Ann Arbor, (734) 794-6234 Cost: $5/adults, $4/kids (age 17 and under), $3/skate rental Public Skating: Sundays 3:15 - 5:30 pm; Tuesdays 7:45 - 8:45 pm; Wednesdays 4:45 - 5:45 pm and 7:15 - 8:45 pm; Thursdays 7:15 - 8:45 pm; Fridays 7:15 - 8:45 pm; Saturdays 2:30 - 4:30 pm and 7:15 - 8:45 pm
Yost Arena
Located on the University of Michigan Athletic Campus, you can skate on the same ice as the U-M hockey team. 1116 South State Street, Ann Arbor, (734) 764-4600 Cost: $6/adults, $3/kids, $3/noon skate, $3/skate rental, $2/noon skate rental Public Skating: Monday-Friday from 12pm to 12:50pm; check www.umich.edu/yost for regular Public Skate dates and times as they are subject to change Where to ice skate this winter.
Find even more fun things to do online! 36
february
2015 / ecurrent.com
Experience a new perspective on what it means to be transgender from an individual with first hand experience. A short lecture along with a question and answer session will be available.
17 tuesday The Moth Storyslam: Michigan Radio
7:30pm-9pm. $8. Circus Bar and Billiards, 210 S. First St. 734-764-5118. circusbarannabor.com
Monthly open-mic storytelling competition sponsored by The Moth. This month’s topic is Adventure.
19 thursday Penny W. Stamps Speaker Series: Jose Miguel Sokoloff
5pm. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8463. michtheater.org Free
President of Lowe and Partners Global Creative Council, ad executive Jose Miguel Sokoloff has led a multi-year, multi-award winning marketing campaign on behalf of the Ministry of Defense against the guerrilla war in Colombia, persuading FARC guerrillas to demobilize.
22 sunday A2 Dhoom: Michigan Mazaa
6:30pm. $12-$15. The Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8463.michtheater.org
The first ever Bollywood dance competition in Michigan, featuring 8 teams from around the country.
23 monday Resume Basics: Center for the Education of Women 4-6pm. Center for the Education of Women, 330 E. Liberty Street. $25. 734-764-6360. cew.umich.edu Free
Presenter: Kirsten Elling, Ph.D., Associate Director for Counseling, Programs & Services. Discover tips to make your resume represent you in the best way, and make you ultra-hireable.
24 tuesday Is Democracy in Decline?
4-5:30pm. School of Social Work Building - Room 1636, 1080 S. University Ave. 734-764-0351. umich.edu Free
Talk by Stanford University Center for Democracy, Development, and the Rule of Law director Larry Diamond.
25 wednesday Science Café: Can You Train Your Brain?
5:30-7:30pm. Conor O’Neill’s Traditional Irish Pub, 318 S. Main St. 734-665-2968. lsa.umich.edu Free
Speakers include Professor Priti Shah of the U-M department of Psychology and Ben Katz, Ph.D. student in psychology and former researcher and game designer at Lumosity.
26 thursday TwerkShop
5:45-7:15pm. $20. A2 Aviary, 4720 S. State Rd. a2aviary.com
Learn some modern dance moves like “twerk,” “booty roll,””pop and drop,” “scrub the ground,” “lazy stripper,” “stripper wiggle,” as well as the infamous “make dat money hand stand.”
28 saturday Super Heroes Unite!
8pm. $6/adv, $8/day of. The Pyramid Scheme, 68 Commerce Ave. SW, Grand Rapids. 616-776-9013. vaultofmidnight.com
At the Vault of Midnights new location in Grand Rapids, they are hosting a costume dance party at the Pyramid Scheme. Dress up as your favorite super hero and dance the night away! Costume contests will
ONGOING Mondays
Democratic Party Meeting
2-3pm. Ann Arbor Community Center, 625 N. Main St. 734-662-3128. annarbor-communitycenter.org Free
Ann Arbor Democrats convene to discuss political issues. ensue. 21+.
Searchable lists updated daily at ecurrent.com
health events Saturday 1
Come meditated and learn about the practices and beliefs of Buddhism in an open discussion.
Be guided through mindful meditation in a one hour sitting, for beginners and experienced meditators. The group is currently discussing readings from Jon KabatZinn’s “Wherever You Go There You Are: Mindfulness Meditation in Everyday Life.”
Tuesday 3
Thursdays
The Essence of Tibetan Buddhism
10-11am. Jewel Heart Buddhist Center, 1129 Oak Valley Dr. 734994-3387. jewelheart.org Free
Teens Using Drugs: What To Know and What To Do
7:30-9pm. St. Joseph Mercy Hospital Education Center, 5305 Elliott Drive, Ypsilanti. 734-485-8725. dawnfarms.org Free
“Teens Using Drugs: What To Know and What To Do” is a free, ongoing, two-part series. Part 1 provides information on how to recognize and understand adolescent substance abuse. Part 2 provides information on what should and should not be done to help when a teen substance abuse problem is suspected, and concludes with a short talk by a young person in recovery. Bright Nights Community Forum 7-8:30pm. Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4555. aadl.org Free
“Depression During Childbearing Years: Strategies for Prevention, Intervention, and Raising Resilient Children” is the subject for today’s workshop.
Thursday 5
Nurturing Baby and You
10-10:45am. Downtown Library: Youth Story Corner, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-8301. aadl.org Free
Gari Stein leads this program with an emphasis on play. movement, and touch featuring rhymes and tunes for everyday routines. This event promotes healthy developments and strong bonds derived from the research on the body-brain connection. 3 months-pre walkers.
Saturday 7
Using Yoga to help Reduce Stress and Improve Sleep 10-10:30am. Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-8301. aadl.org Free
Victoria Duranona leads the class in Kundalini yoga and discusses how to become aware of stressors and how they influence
Ongoing: Tuesdays
Ann Arbor East Group Run 6:15pm. Running Fit, 3010 Washtenaw Ave. 734-548-6299. Free
Runners of all abilities invited to join a weekly run of 3-8 miles along varying routes. Open Meditation
11am-noon. Community Room at St. Joseph Mercy, 400 W. Russell St., Saline. 734-276-7707. mindulnessmeditationmichigan.weebly.
health
com Free
Chelsea Winter Ride
9am. Aberdeen Bike and Fitness, 1175 S. Main, Chelsea. 517-2856830. Free.
Slow/moderate-paced ride, 35-45 or 55-65 miles, to various destinations. HIV Testing
2-8pm. S3: Safe Sex Store, 1209 S. University Ave. 734-741-1434. s3safesexstore.com Free
HIV Testing performed by HARC staff. Walk ins welcome, or call to schedule appointments. Test takes about 20 minutes. our communication, our relationships, and our performance. Yoga and meditation class follows. Bring water, don’t eat two hours before, bring your own yoga mat, and dress comfortably.
Cross Country Skiing
Interested in getting those lungs pumping in a wintery landscape? There’s a group of crosscountry skiers that meets several times a month for a group ski through a selection of locations. The Washtenaw Ski Touring Club gathers on Sunday February 8 at Maybury State Park for a Ski and Hike at 10am. On Sunday February 15 they will meet again at the Hudson Mills Metropark at 10am. Less experienced skiers can rent and ski at Hudson Mills’ over 6 miles of trails. Half-day ski rentals are available on weekends for $10. Maybury State Park, 20145 N. Beck Rd., Northville MI, (248) 349-8390; Hudson Mills Metropark, N. Territorial Road, Dexter, (734) 426-8211 or 800-477-3191—RC
Tuesday 17
Herbal Wisdom with Linda Diane Feldt 7-8:30pm. Crazy Wisdom Bookstore & Tearoom, 114 S. Main St. 734-665-2757. crazywisdom. net Free
This months topic is “Integrating Herbal Use with Conventional Medicine with Special Emphasis on Cancer.” Discussion of herbs of concern and possible interaction, which herbs work well with conventional therapies, ideas for successful integration, and how to let doctors know about herbal use. Grief and Loss in Addiction and Recovery 7:30-9pm. St. Josephy Mercy Hospital Education Center, 5305 Elliot Dr. 734-485-8725. dawnfarm. org/programs Free
By Janice Firn, LMSW; and Barb Smith, author of “Brent’s World.” Learn theories of grief and grief recovery, losses experienced throughout addiction and recovery processes, and methods that can help individuals cope.
Saturday 21
Ann Arbor Adult ADHD Support Group
5305 Elliott Drive, Ypsilanti. 734-4858725. dawnfarms.org Free
“The Intersection of Domestic Violence and Substance Abuse” will be presented on Tuesday with a panel of local community leaders and experts.
Saturday 28
28-Day Program to Unlock the Secret Messages of Your Body with Constance Hart 10am. $400. Crazy Wisdom Bookstore & Tearoom . 348-982-7859. crazywisdom.net
The first day of the program developed by Denise Linn for eliminating old programming in the body. Helps rebalance the body, align the body with life purpose, and understand spiritual lessons from your body through clutter clearing, study, and meditation. Materials provided. Feb. 28, Mar. 7, 14, 21, and 28. Call to pre-register. Human Awareness Mini Workshop with HAI Midwest
6-8pm. Crazy Wisdom Bookstore & Tearoom, 114 S. Main St. 734-5238566. crazywisdom.net Free
10am. Espresso Royale, 2264 S. Main. meetup.com//annarborADHD Free
In a safe, supportive, and relaxed environment, discover the ingredients for a happy, healthy, loving, and intimate relationship. Register at 5:30.
Tuesday 24
Ongoing:
Join an informal chat and support group for adults with ADHD, with coffee. The Intersection of Domestic Violence and Substance Abuse 7:30-9pm. St. Joseph Mercy Hospital Education Center Auditor,
Tuesdays
Ann Arbor East Group Run 6:15pm. Running Fit, 3010 Washtenaw Ave. 734-548-6299. Free
Runners of all abilities invited to join a weekly run of 3-8 miles along varying routes. Open Meditation
11am-noon. Community Room at St. Joseph Mercy, 400 W. Russell St., Saline. 734-276-7707. mindulnessmeditationmichigan.weebly. com Free
Be guided through mindful meditation in a one hour sitting, for beginners and experienced meditators. The group is currently discussing readings from Jon KabatZinn’s “Wherever You Go There You Are: Mindfulness Meditation in Everyday Life.”
Thursdays
Chelsea Winter Ride
9am. Aberdeen Bike and Fitness, 1175 S. Main, Chelsea. 517-2856830. Free.
Slow/moderate-paced ride, 35-45 or 55-65 miles, to various destinations. HIV Testing
2-8pm. S3: Safe Sex Store, 1209 S. University Ave. 734-741-1434. s3safesexstore.com Free
HIV Testing performed by HARC staff. Walk ins welcome, or call to schedule appointments. Test takes about 20 minutes.
ts More even y at il a updated dt.com n e r r ecu
ecurrent.com / february 2015 37
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Across 1. Record of a night of drinking 4. [We’re still working on the details of the show]: Abbr. 7. Some four-doors 13. Bumgarner’s was 0.43 in the 2014 World Series: Abbr. 14. Feathered neckpiece 15. Factory-floor leaders 16. Prime ___ 17. P 19. Red Sox rivals 21. Shiny sign stuff 22. Nescafé rival 23. R 26. Mud bath covering 27. Heat superstar 28. Spleen 30. Friend at the tapas bar 32. L 38. It can keep a good man down 39. Prepared for a triathlon, say 41. Dim ___ 42. G 44. Center of Florida? 46. Lovey alternative 47. Immunization fluids 48. Interior designer Berkus 51. T 57. “The Bachelor” alum Renee, or “SNL” alum Cheri 59. Tar greeting 60. With 64-Across, where Alan Dershowitz went after Brooklyn College 61. B 64. See 60-Across 65. Caught by the Orkin man 66. “___ of Jeet Kune Do” (Bruce Lee book) 67. Waze way: Abbr. 68. He played Malcolm in 1992 69. Sony co-chief Pascal 70. “So’s ___ old man!”
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36. Daft Punk, e.g. 37. 911 respondent 40. Monthly expenditure 43. London luxury hotel, familiarly 45. Put your hands together? 47. It shoots from above 48. Passing notion? 49. Plead for forgiveness 50. J.J. Watt, e.g. 52. It can provide liftoff
2015 / ecurrent.com
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Down 1. With 54-Down, ceramic that means literally “baked earth” 2. Andrea Bocelli numbers 3. Rocker for the kids 4. “Ground Floor” channel 5. Spring in one’s step 6. “Doctor Who” villain who says “Exterminate!” 7. George, to Prince William 8. There are 10 million of these in a joule 9. Slung mud at 10. Big name in appliances 11. Guitar parts with frets 12. 4th and inches option, often 15. “Huckleberry ___” 18. Japanese fish 20. Horse 24. “Same here” 25. “L’immoraliste” author André 29. Cash in a coupon 30. “The criminals are out there, somewhere,” for short 31. Video game avatar 32. Bird cry 33. Galeão-Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport city, briefly 34. One, in Orléans 35. Mil. men on horseback, until the ‘40s
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53. “Oh, so THAT’S how you do it” 54. See 1-Down 55. Send to cloud nine 56. More original 58. Memo heading 62. Lady friend 63. Today, in Tijuana
for crossword answers, go to ecurrent.com
BLANK OUT
2
©2015 By Brendan Emmett Quigley (www.brendanemmettquigley.com)
crossword
classifieds PAYMENT Payment must be received before an ad can be placed. We accept checks, cash, money orders, and credit cards (MasterCard, American Express, or Visa) Sorry, no refunds. Misprint results in credit toward next ad.
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We’re looking for a freelance writer and a freelance photographer. Paid gigs for Current & Ann Arbor Family magazines. E-mail us at editor@adamsstreetpublishing.com
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Give Hope. Become a Foster Parent. Attend a free training today to learn more! For more information: www.judsoncenter.org or 313-255-8272.
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Massage: Walk-in appointments available. Free parking. Make some time for yourself! Come in stressed leave refreshed. RelaxStation. 734-623-1951​ Eve & Mother Earth’s The organization’s mission is to recycle. Join us in the celebration! Erase carbon footprints. Visit eveandme.org
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Events
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March 14 - MOM2MOM CONSIGNMENT SALE Liberty School, 7265 N. Ann Arbor St., Saline. 9-2. $1.00 entry. More info at: www. mom2momconsignmentsale.com -------------------------------------
FOR SALE
------------------------------------Tantric six how to have fantastic six $1.99 e-book at Amazon.com by Bartholomew Bronson ------------------------------------DELL LAPTOP Computer. Extremely fast, professional grade model. Excellent condition. Windows 7, Premium software bundle. Perfect for home, school or business. Six month warranty. $399. 717-653-6314
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Catherine at 419.244.9859
to sell your stuff! ecurrent.com / february 2015   39
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