SCENE October 2018

OCTOBER 2018 - SOUTHERNMINNSCENE.COM

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Pumpkin Patches & Picking

Small Music Venues

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CONTENT

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OCTOBER 2018 / VOLUME 6 / ISSUE 9

Features:

COLUMNS:

Some of Southern Minnesota’s best Pumpkin patches.

The 80’s & 90’s - MN Edition.

6 Pumpkin Patches & Picking

8 Small Venues to see Live Music in SoMinn A guide to some great little places to hear music in SoMinn.

10 Don Scott Blues

A late-in-life romance that blossomed into a blues duo quite unexpectedly

12 Cannon Falls

The SE Minn town trying to be a tourist destination.

16 Mankato History Fest

The volunteer-run event hosted on a farm.

20 A Profile of Mankato’s Merely Players

It’s been around for 36 years and produced 100+ shows, with more than 30,000 volunteers and patrons being involved.

24 Renaissance

10 Can’t Miss Things at the Festival.

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4 Minnesota Music SCENE

ABOUT

14 Mollywood BLVD

Have a story idea?

Spooktacular costumes.

Editor Philip Weyhe - 507-645-1115 editor@southernminnSCENE.com

28 The Tigger SCENE

Talking to Bill Sullivan about his book,

“LEMON JAIL: On the Road with the Replacements.”

HAVE A CALENDAR EVENT?

37 Album Review

editor@southernminnSCENE.com or got to www.southernminnscene. com/calendar

Kenny Chesney - Songs For The Saints

37 The Bookworm Sez:

• What Truch Sounds Like • Whiskey When We’re Dry

• The Camper Book

• Gigged

• Gods and Heroes

• “What Can a Citizen Do?”, “If Your’re Going to March” and “We Raise, We Resist, We Raise Our Voices”

WANT TO Advertise?

Pam DeMorett - 507-333-3117 pdemorett@faribault.com

30 The TimeLine

SoMinn’s most comprehensive

calendar of things to be SCENE.

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OcTObEr 13TH AnD 14TH www.studioartour.com See website for details!

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| OCTO B ER 2 0 1 8

3

MINNESOTA MUSIC SCENE

RIAN-Dicke MICHELS Rian-Dicke Michels, can be reached at editor@southernminnscene.com.

Information Society

The Jets

Prince

Soul Asylum Semisonic

The 80’s & 90’s – MN Edition The Jayhawks

F

irst of all, I’ll go ahead and date myself by stating that I am a 90s baby, and as I’ve mentioned before, music was a staple in my household. Throughout much of my childhood, my dad was usually playing music and/ or singing along. I have one very distinct memory as a small child, taking a bath with my little sister at the apartment in Chicago, he placed a small boom box on the counter and played “Surfin’ Bird” by the Trashmen.

Being that this particular group was from Minnesota, I began to wonder how many of those songs I heard growing up were actually by Minnesotan artists. With this query, I took to the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

The Hot 100 is the music industry standard in the United States. Rating music since its first number one rated hit in 1958 (which was “Poor Little Fool” by Ricky Nelson, if you were curious), the chart is a fantastic tool for determining the popularity of a particular song at any given time.

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Husker Du Before the internet made music so readily accessible, chart rankings were based solely on sales and airplay. Now, with the added accessibility, online streaming has been included in the criteria. The chart is published weekly, giving us an almost live time show of who’s who, according to Billboard Hot 100 history. These are the charting songs of the 80s and 90s, courtesy of our most famous Minnesotan artists: • Information Society is an electronic group that formed in a dorm room in 1982.

Their hit “What’s On Your Mind” spent 39 weeks on the charts and peaked at #3 in 1988. Three others charted in 1989, “Repetition” hit #76, “Lay All Your Love on Me” hit #83 and “Walking Away” got to #9.

• The Jets were a Polynesian-American family group that was active from 19852016. They charted with ten of their songs between 1986 and 1989. Their top five were these: - “You Got It All” hit #3 in 1987 - “Crush on You” #3 in 1986 - “Make It Real” #4 in 1988 - “Rocket to You” #6 in 1988

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- “Cross My Broken Heart” #7 in 1987 • Soul Asylum formed as an alternative rock band in 1981, and with one top hit, they charted three times between 1993 and 1996. “Runaway Train” hit #5 in ’93, also winning a Grammy, then “Misery” hit #20 in 1995 and then “Promises Broken” hit #63 in 1996.

• Semisonic, another alternative rock band, only came together in 1995. However, they still managed to chart in 1998 with “Feeling Strangely Fine” at #43, but did not chart again until the early 2000’s.

• Husker Du was a rock band that formed in 1979 that hit the charts twice in the 80s, but in the Billboard 200 albums chart.

“Warehouse: Songs and Stories” was listed at #117 in 1987 and “Candy Apple Grey” hit #140 in 1986.

• Prince was getting down long before I was even a thought, having started his music career in 1975. In fact, Prince had five No. 1 hits and 19 top 10s. He really was amazing! Forty-three of his songs charted in total, but as for the 90s songs, there were 11 that hit the charts. Listed below are the

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five that landed in the top 10.

- “Cream” at #1 in 1991 - “Diamonds and Pearls” at #3 in 1992 - “The Most Beautiful Girl in the World” at #3 in 1994 - “Theives in the Temple” at #6 in 1990 - “7” at #7 in 1993 • The Jayhawks were an alternative country band formed in 1985 that hit the charts a decade later with “Tomorrow the Green Grass” at #92 in 1995.

Choosing only the groups that hit the Billboard Charts during the 80s and 90s narrowed my search by a lot. Originally, I had thought of collecting all those that charted from the 80s to today, but I guessed that a list that extensive should be best saved for radio, where the fun can be experienced first-hand, and they only play the top charting song of their careers.

Regardless, if my list doesn’t jog your memory, you’ll have to take a trip down memory lane with a listen or two. You never know what will come back to you after the years of dust has settled. SMS

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| OCTO B ER 2 0 1 8

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BY Anne Kopas editor@southernminnscene.com

ABOVE LEFT: Bridgewater Produce 4706 East Lonsdale Blvd. (Hwy. 19 West), Northfield, bridgewaterproducefarm.com

ABOVE RIGHT: Twiehoff Gardens and Nursery - 917 St. Paul Rd., Faribault, twiehoffgardens.com

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or many families, the tradition of driving to a farm and picking a pumpkin out of a patch is just as important as actually carving the pumpkin.

It’s also about getting lost in a corn maze, sipping apple cider and getting outside before the snow falls.

Bridgewater Produce Farm, a farm and pumpkin patch located in Northfield, is well aware of these fall traditions.

Each weekend in October, the farm opens a “pumpkin playland,” where kids (and their parents) can hop on a hay ride, play in a corn sandbox and more. Last year, the farm added a track where visitors can race big-wheel tricycles.

The pick-your-own pumpkin patch itself is open any day of the week, as is the rest of the farm, selling mums, gourds, squash and other fall produce. Most of these pumpkins are the standard orange variety, usually weighing in between 25 and 45 pounds. The record-size pumpkin, according to owner John Larson, grew to 120 pounds. He said kids often “find some monster pumpkin that we didn’t know was out there.”

The farm grows 25 varieties of pumpkins that vary from year to year as the owners try new types of seeds. This year’s more unusual varieties include white and gray pumpkins. For standard pumpkins, Larson recommends picking one with bright orange coloring, a round shape and solid stem to last longest during the season.

Twenty miles to the south, Twiehoff Gardens and Nursery in Faribault is still going strong after over 50 years of selling pumpkins and other vegetables. The pumpkin patch got its start when owner Steve Twiehoff was 11 years old, selling pumpkins in his front yard. The operation grew and grew, and the farm now sells squash, corn, straw bales and other seasonal produce in the fall.

“I have loyal customers,” said Twiehoff of his farm’s success. “I enjoy the work and the people.”

The 2 ½ -acre patch is now home to pie pumpkins, pink pumpkins, “Cinderella” pumpkins (named for Cinderella’s carriage) and more, pre-picked as soon as they’re ripe.

Twiehoff said the farm plants a combination of new and old varieties in the spring, but what’s ready in the fall is sometimes a mystery.

This year, Twiehoff Gardens will host its annual Pumpkin Festival from 1-4 p.m.

Oct. 6. Along with the pumpkins, visitors can enjoy face painting, a carving demonstration, cookies, cider and popcorn. And if

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you’d rather a pre-decorated pumpkin, painted pumpkins, both spooky and not-so-spooky, are available.

Here’s a list of some other pumpkin patches located throughout southern Minnesota:

kins in a vacant lot to smother weeds. It didn’t work, but it grew into a bustling pumpkin patch that now grows 30 varieties over 8 acres. The farm is also the home of the pink Porcelain Doll pumpkin, and 25 cents from every pumpkin sold goes toward breast cancer research. Pumpkinseekers can also shop the antique barn, picnic on the farm and explore the silo slide.

690537 273rd St., Austin, farmerjohnspumpkinpatch.com

Stop in for our fall SpecialS

Center Creek Orchard

Located just north of the Iowa border, Center Creek Orchard offers pick-your-own pumpkins for all tastes, from classic orange to blue, yellow, pink and multicolored. The whole family can also enjoy an apple orchard, as well as a fall festival every weekend in September and October.

Come for classic fall activities like a hay maze, haunted forest and hayride—stay for the more unique options like an 80-foot slide, apple slinging (it’s exactly what it sounds like) and a barrel ride.

663 254th Ave., Fairmont, centercreekorchard.com

The Sun-Kissed look is always in style!

Northwoods Orchard

Northwoods Orchard offers both an apple orchard and pumpkin patch for those who can’t decide between the two. When you’re done, take a walk through the “Life on the Farm” corn maze or try the “Think Like a Bee” scavenger hunt for the little ones. Open every weekend in October, the orchard also sells Amish syrups and fruit butters, along with ornamental fall produce, so come prepared to stock up.

8018 75th Ave. NW, Oronoco, northwoodsorchard.com

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Barten Pumpkins

Barten Pumpkins’ website proclaims itself “the most family-friendly pumpkin patch in the Twin Cities,” and the owners practice what they preach: all of their 11 children (plus their spouses and 34 grandchildren) help out on the farm. The pumpkin patch is open through Oct. 31, but stop by Oct. 6 or 13 for extra activities including a caricature artist, pony rides, pumpkin bowling, a bubble machine, hayrides and music from an old-fashioned mechanical organ.

5716 West 280th St., New Prague, bartenpumpkins.com

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Apple Ridge Orchard, Mazeppa

Located 14 miles north of Rochester, Apple Ridge offers apples, pumpkins and grapes, all accessible via wagon rides that run daily (or buy them pre-picked in the store). There are also two corn mazes—one for kids, one for adults. Bring your camera for when you meet the alpacas, goats and peacocks roaming the barnyard area.

47418 240th Ave., Mazeppa, appleridgeorchard.com SMS

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Farmer John’s Pumpkin Patch

Farmer John’s Pumpkin Patch started by accident in 1988, when the owners planted pumpA d d y o u r e v e n t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E c a l e n d a r . G O TO w w w. s o u t h ernminn . c o m / s c ene / c a len d a r & C l i c k + A d d a n E v ent

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| OCTO B ER 2 0 1 8

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Small Venues to see Live Music in SoMinn BY emily kahnke editor@southernminnscene.com

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TOP: Cannon River Winery MIDDLE: Ed’s (No Name) Bar BOTTOM: Signature Bar & Grill

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hy do we go to concerts?

The simple response is for the music.

A more comprehensive explanation, in my opinion, anyway, is to have the best time alongside other concertgoers, listening to the music we all love in a sort of conglomerate. Easy enough, right? Seems pretty straightforward, but it’s not always that easy to find the ideal and cozy music experience.

Many people underestimate the joy of small music venues. Sure, they don’t have big name artists like Taylor Swift or Beyoncé, but what a small venue lacks in famous artists, they gain in discovering something new. It’s the same

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energy, equal enjoyment, basically the same everything except ticket price.

Here is a guide to some small music venues in Southern Minnesota that you may not have considered going to for a lovely music experience: Cannon River Winery – Cannon Falls There’s no arguing that this place is beautiful and picturesque in every way. This historic winery plays host to many wine and art events on the weekends. These events are almost always accompanied by live musical entertainment as well. This isn’t a place where you’ll find a headbanging rock band, but you’ll find smooth jazz, melodic piano, and soothing acoustic stylings by various artists. This is the perfect venue to visit for a date night or a relaxing girls night. What’s better than listening to music that’s just about as smooth and delicate as the wine you can taste?

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TOP: Immenent Brewery LOWER: Marie’s Underground & Tap House

Ed’s (No Name) Bar – Winona Self-proclaimed as “Winona’s Living Room,” Ed’s (No-Name) Bar certainly doesn’t fall short of making you feel at home. Beautiful art adorns the walls. Their beer and wine selections are a favorite of many, and a music lover of almost any genre can be satisfied here. You can hear anywhere from Indie-Rock jams to acoustic performances. They are always updating their Facebook and Website with upcoming events, local arts, and what’s new on tap.

Imminent Brewing and Tanzenwald Brewing – Northfield As Northfield’s downtown brewery, Imminent is the place to go for people and dogs of all ages.

Yes, I said dogs. The atmosphere here is charming. You’ll hear a wide array of musical talents.

Alt-rock, Jazz, Acoustic, Singer/Songwriters are just a few of the genres you’ll experience to get your body moving, and the house brews flowing.

Imminent is a place to have a private birthday party, family reunion, or join in on one of their scheduled events.

Just outside Northfield’s downtown lies Tanzenwald, which prides itself on “celebrating the art in everyday things.” Inside the rustic taproom, it celebrates the art of brewing, cooking, playing music and simple relationships within a community. The brewery, which also serves food, hosts a mix of musicians on a weekly basis and is also happy to hold parties and other events.

Marie’s Underground & Tap House – Red Wing If you like food, beverages, and live music, Marie’s is the place for you. 60’s cover bands,

Bluegrass/Americana, Rockin’ Sheriffs, and a couple of Red Wing’s own teachers are just a taste of what you’ll experience when you enter the Underground. They also play host to an open mic night every month with a free personal pizza to all performers. Does it get any better than that?

Mully’s on Madison – Mankato Calling all country music fans! Pull on your cowboy boots and button up those flannels because I have got a treat for you. Mully’s is Mankato’s only verifiable country bar and venue.

Featuring a different country act every weekend, you’ll never not be able to scratch your live country music itch here. You may even want to try your hand at becoming Country’s next rising star on their regular Karaoke Nights.

The What’s Up Lounge – Mankato The What’s Up certainly won’t win any beauty pageants as far as aesthetics are concerned, but this place has been a principle venue in Minnesota since the 1900s. Punk, Rock, metal, hardcore, rap, experimental and the like is the primary draw of this venue. The What’s Up has played host to many local bands as well as internationally known ones. This place was even the venue where I attended my first concert: Motion City Soundtrack circa 2005. If you’re an emo kid (like me) head on down to Riverfront Drive, grab yourself a beer and start headbanging.

North Star Bar – Rochester Live music every weekend and no cover charge? Say no more, the north star is the guiding light for all of your musical needs in Rochester.

The North Star is one of the best places in Rochester to get your live music fix and get your groove

A d d y o u r e v e n t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E c a l e n d a r . G O TO w w w. s o u t h ernminn . c o m / s c ene / c a len d a r & C l i c k + A d d a n E v ent

TOP: Mully’s on Madison MIDDLE: North Star Bar BOTTOM: The What’s Up Lounge

on with the large dance floor. With an assortment of cover bands, local bands, and even local cover bands you’ll have more fun than you can handle.

Rock, Alternative, Country and even some throwback Emo tunes are just a taste of what will spark your fancy. Their website and Facebook page have a schedule of each band scheduled to play.

Signature Bar and Grill – Faribault Do you like getting jiggy with it to the sounds of Swing while enjoying a slice of the best pizza Faribault has to offer? Signature Bar and Grill is a

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place you may want to visit. You’ll also hear selections of Jazz, acoustic and good ole’ fashioned rock music cascading the atmosphere here. Signature is a good place to enjoy some delicious grub and catchy tunes for a night out with the boys, girls or family.

There are many, many other places across the region to kick back, relax and listen to some tunes, so use this list as a starting point, but check out your own backyard and beyond for some wonderful musical experiences. SMS

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ans of Midwestern blues have James Booker and red beans to thank for one of Southern Minnesota’s best offerings.

In New Orleans in 2012, Rosanne Licciardi was in her third year of living in the sticky gulf city. The then 66-year-old Rochester, New York native had made her way there from Raleigh, North Carolina in 2010 after spending 18 years in the latter.

She had fallen in love with a New Orleans jazz fest in 1999 – eventually getting her son hooked on the scene, too – so she decided to make her way south.

Meanwhile, Don Scott always hated the cold. This didn’t bode well for the Chatfield boy.

A blues musician for the past 30 years, Scott left Minnesota 20 years ago for Los Angeles to strike out on his own. Despite being part of the Dust Ball Blues Band in Mankato, Scott was ready for the warmth the southwest could offer.

Eventually, he too found his way to New Orleans, when, on that fateful day in 2012, at the age of 64, he met a woman whose skirt matched the colorful musical shirt he was wearing. That woman would eventually become his music and life partner.

The duo got together over some red beans and a James Booker birthday tribute, before eventually meeting to listen to their favorite musician John Cleary.

And the rest is history.

“He just felt like family,” Licciardi said about meeting Scott. “We just graced in with each other.”

Spending five months in Southeastern Minnesota playing countless blues and music events, the Don Scott Blues band, of Chatfield, combines a passion for blues music with a love that brought them together after a fateful encounter. The other seven months of the year, you can catch the band on tour or at their regular standing gig in Mexico.

“It’s a gypsy life for us,” Licciardi said lovingly, later adding, “We’re not mainstream by any means.”

Their unconventional style and an underappreciation for blues can sometimes make booking gigs outside of their regular stint in Mexico difficult, Licciardi said, but with her background in arts and Scott’s lifelong passion for music, the duo sees no reason to stop.

Scott remembers vividly his first introduction to blues music. His older sister came home from college with an album chalk full of blues singers, including Big Bill, a performer that’s always struck a chord with him (pun intended).

Rosanne Licciardi and Don Scott pose for a photo on their fourth anniversary with the matching outfits that brought them together.

Don Scott plays his guitar in this undated photo. Scott is a lifelong blues player who started a band with his partner, Rosanne Licciardi after a fateful meeting in New Orleans in 2012.

Blossoms a Music Duo 10

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That record has always stuck with Scott, who kept it after his sister had brought it home.

“There’s something about that music that is so compelling for me,” Scott said. “Geez, you grew up in Southeastern Minnesota, how did you start playing blues music? And that was the start for me.”

That start has led to multiple bands, solo careers and plenty of albums.

This year and in 2017, Scott was nominated to the Minnesota Blues Society Hall of Fame, and his song, “8 Days of Hell” is up for the Hall of Fame this year as well.

Writing hundreds of his own songs, Scott is particular about what he lets public. He’s continually crafting and perfecting each song, and plenty come straight from the heart.

“8 Days in Hell” is an homage to his time spent fighting in Vietnam, where Scott was severely burned. He also wrote a song for his mother after she passed away, and visiting a friend on the Cheyenne Reservation inspired A d d y o u r e v e n t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E c a l e n d a r . G O TO w w w. s o u t h ernminn . c o m / s c ene / c a len d a r & C l i c k + A d d a n E v ent

performances, Licciardi and Scott joke that sometimes people are a little surprised to see people of their age on stage. But performing their jazzy and bluesy tunes – with a dash of social justice and covers added in for good measure too – has become a catharsis for the duo.

Onstage, there is no time or age; there’s just their instruments, voices and a passion.

“They like the groove… They’re also surprised that two old people are out there, and they have the groove,” Licciardi said. “When we’re out there, I don’t feel old.”

Outside of that passion, they have their own hobbies. Scott is an avid golfer, while Licciardi soaks up photography. But in their free time, it’s back to blues.

“We don’t watch television,” Scott said. “We play music.”

“And we play into the night,” Licciaridi responded. SMS

ABOVE LEFT: Don Scott Blues plays together at one of their standing gigs in Mexico.

LOWER LEFT: Rosanne Licciardi plays the drums at a performance of Don Scott Blues in this undated photo. She and her partner, Don Scott, became involved with music together after meeting in New Orleans in 2012.

another prolific tune.

Other times it’s just the feel of the music, having written some instrumental songs as well.

“It’s a labor of love,” Scott said. “…You’ve got to enjoy it.”

As the band’s heartbeat, Licciardi has always had a passion for the rhythm of drumming. She learned about African drumming in Holland and worked to bring it to Rochester, N.Y., Licciardi said. For this effort, she was called a “bush whacker” by the local paper.

Music isn’t anything new to Licciardi, who said she lets the music flow through her rather than counting. She has a background in piano and was even awarded an outstanding achievement in music in 1963.

She now plays the cajon and the djembe, while Scott’s acoustic and electric guitar talents feed into their songs’ tunes. Scott has also been playing the rock harmonica for the past three years, while Licciardi also frequents two varieties of cymbals.

Before she met Scott, Licciardi said didn’t have a real active reason to be playing her percussion. Now, the duo is living their musical dreams together.

“He said one day, ‘Why don’t you get a drum?’ Well how perfect, because I was in a drum corps, but I also used to work with African drummers,” Licciardi said. “So, he said, ‘Well why don’t you get a drum?’ And I found a new passion.”

For nearly four years, the duo has found a lifestyle they can enjoy together, though, the pair admits that being in a two-person band with their significant other can be challenging. But for the most part it’s rewarding, Licciardi said.

“I think we do push each other,” Licciardi said. “And we just feed off each other, and I think new things come out of that.”

Life on the road doing what they love is exhilarating, the pair said. They travel around to the Carolinas, Texas and Mexico before coming home to Minnesota. Traveling to a new place and leaving impressions on new listeners is always exciting, Scott said.

But being able to play at home in Minnesota is quite the treat, too, Scott said. They spend months traveling around the local area, playing for those Midwesterners Scott grew up around and visiting family.

When new listeners come to one of their

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Red Wing Arts Fall Festival is brought to you in part by :

www.redwingarts.org Art work by 2017 Festival Best in Show Jon Offut

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BY JUSTINE KRUEGER editor@southernminnscene.com

Aiming to be a Destination 12

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quick 40-minute drive from the Twin Cities sits Cannon Falls.

Rooted in history, but springing with new life, Cannon Falls is the perfect place for a fall road trip.

Hop in the car and make the beautiful drive a slow one, savoring the beautiful fall colors Minnesota has to offer, and enter a town with a wide variety of activities, ranging from artsy to active.

Based on my experience, I’ll walk you through the perfect day in the town nestled on the Cannon River.

First on the docket is Nick’s Downtown Diner. It’s family operated and set up in a true diner style, complete with a counter to get some face-to-face time with the wait staff. Boasting a full list of breakfast classics like biscuits and gravy and eggs benedict (both made with farm fresh

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eggs), Nick’s also has a full spread of sandwiches and burgers for lunch. Nick’s Downtown Diner is open until 3 p.m., so I would make it your first stop.

Our next venue is a classic small-town Minnesota activity: antiquing! A quick drive away from Nick’s is Country Side Antique Mall. Over 50 vendors fill up this 7,000-square-foot gem. Country Side is filled to the brim with beautiful and unique items, ripe for the picking.

There is truly something for everyone.

Once you’ve had your fill of antiques, let’s head down the street to the new kid in town and grab some lunch.

New to the scene is Artisan Plaza, an up and comer in the Cannon Falls crowd. Situated right off Hwy. 52, Artisan Plaza boasts a collection of prepared food and curated items in their market.

The goal of the market is to provide a place for people to try new and unique things that will supplement their weekly groceries. A great feature of Artisan Plaza is the brick oven pizza (available after 3 p.m.) and selection of Minnesota wine and beer, as well as a selection of prepared grab-and-go items. The selection of prepared foods

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is plentiful; from sandwiches to nitro cold brew coffee on tap.

In addition to the prepared offerings, Artisan Plaza has a full-time butcher on staff, and is working towards opening up a full-service butcher shop. They also have big plans to open up a full-service restaurant and are currently working on the space. The crew at Artisan Plaza has big things in the works, and it’s definitely worth a visit (or two).

After you’ve made your selections for lunch, head on down to the river for a picnic. If physical activity is more your style, Cannon Falls boasts a multitude of trails for both walking and biking.

A local favorite is Cannon Valley Trail which clocks in at 19.7 beautiful miles. Be sure to check the Cannon Valley Trail website for current trail conditions.

To round out our day we have two options based on your taste. First up is Tilion Brewery’s Taproom. Seated on the banks of the Cannon River, Tilion is the perfect place to end the day with a glass of their rotating beer selection, a board game, and a beautiful view of the river.

A hop, skip, and a jump, literally down the street, is Cannon River Winery. Stop in to taste a few of their fantastic wines, or indulge in a full glass or two. If you go on the weekend, chances are you’ll catch some live music.

The revitalization that Cannon Falls is experiencing is only just beginning, and great things are happening throughout the town. From new establishments opening, to classics getting a facelift, Cannon Falls a place to be. SMS

PICK - IN - PLAY UNLIMITED BOWLING - LASER TAG - ARCADE GAMES UNLIMITED PLAY FOR 2 HOURS *Based on Availability *Restrictions Apply

THURSDAY - SUNDAY 11 AM - 9 PM FRIDAY - SATURDAY 11 AM - 9 PM YOUR FIRST PICK IS $10

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www.spare-time-fun.com | 333 18th St SE, Owatonna, MN (507) 451 - 2524 A d d y o u r e v e n t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E c a l e n d a r . G O TO w w w. s o u t h ernminn . c o m / s c ene / c a len d a r & C l i c k + A d d a n E v ent

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Mollywood Blvd

MOLLY PENNY Molly Penny is a local radio personality and MSU Mankato alum. It was her love of pop culture that got her interested in doing a morning show gig for KOWZ 100.9. She is now Music and Promotions Director at KOWZ & KRUE Radio in Owatonna and can be heard on various airwaves in Southern Minnesota, including Hot 96.7 in Mankato. She resides in Mankato with her movie buff husband and YouTube obsessed children. Need to contact her?

Shoot her an e-mail mollyp@kowzonline.com or catch her on Twitter at @mollyhoodUSA.

Costumes

I

’m gonna dress you up in my love for Halloween!

You probably know by now that I love Halloween and at the first sign of fall we put out our yard decorations. It is the most wonderful time of the year, and for my family, the official kick off to the Holiday season!

Halloween seems to be gaining in popularity throughout the years with more and more children and adults alike participating in the tradition of dressing up and hitting the streets for free candy.

Each year you will see a vast array of costumes ranging from themed costumes from the latest box office hits to pop culture references (like the huge King mask from Burger King’s ad campaign a la 2008.) Last year, I went as Dustin from Stranger Things. It was a hit! But Stranger Things is not front and center this Halloween.

What is?

Superheroes are always abundant, but I predict this year the super hero trend will be even bigger. Pretty much any Marvel character is going to be game this year after the mega success of Avengers: Infinity War. Expect to see everyone from Thor to Thanos at your Halloween parties. Just another cash cow for that franchise but it’s a great idea for a group theme. You will probably see more kids in these Avengers costumes, but I am sure a fair share of adults will be rocking them, too. And now that Thor cut his luscious locks off, you can save money not having to buy a wig! Guardians of the Galaxy also had a sequel this year, plus Black Panther, too! So Marvel is definitely going to be big.

I polled some of my friends to find out what they are going as and was surprised that more than one of them decided to do a group or family costume theme of the Hugh Jackman musical, The Greatest Showman. If you have seen the film, you can imagine how creative this could get, with characters from the world’s tallest man to the bearded lady! It seems that family themed costumes are back in a major way. One of my friends remarked that she went as Scooby Doo and had her children dress up as the mystery gang. I love this idea. It is classic! But her kids

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are troopers for agreeing to it.

It did not surprise me how many of my friends and family members admitted that they would be dressing in costumes from their child’s favorite television show or movie; Moana, Daniel Tiger and Annie to name a few. Annie happens to be my niece’s current favorite movie, and I am not mad about it because I was the one who bought her that stone cold classic for her birthday two years ago. Aunt win!

Either way, it sounds like group and family costumes are going to be big this year. You will likely see a lot of Incredibles costumes in stores which would be ideal for a family costume. We have the perfect number of people in my family to go as the Incredibles, so that could be a fun, however, I would rather be Frozone than Elastagirl and I know my family would not have it.

Episode 9 isn’t coming until December of 2019, but you know Star Wars is going to crank out a ton of costumes from The Last Jedi. Star Wars has had a presence on Halloween for 40 years. Talk about incredible! It is yet another film franchise that lends itself well to family and group costumes if you are into

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that. The question is; will you be a Sith or a Jedi?

I noticed later this summer that Target looked like it took a page from the Clueless book of fashion, so you could easily be retro and go as Cher or Dionne from Clueless without breaking the bank on an actual costume. Think a yellow plaid mini skirt and white knee socks. Sure, it’s a 23 year old reference, but people will still get it. I actually love the idea of taking pop culture trends that aren’t

relevant and making a costume out of it. Like going as Ross and Rachel from Friends. Genius!

Hamilton is an ever popular Broadway production that made its tour in Minnesota recently so I would not be surprised to see some people rocking Colonial garb. I actually love the idea of little trickor-treaters dressed as George Washington.

As far as the “adult” or “bar Halloween,” that looks to fall this year on Saturday Oct. 27, you will

surely have your classic “Sexy”{ insert the occupation} costumes among the ladies; “Sexy nurse”, “Sexy police officer”, “sexy mouse.” And there will always be that one guy who is still doing the Heath Ledger joker makeup. You just can’t avoid it.

If you are into doing the scary costume thing,

Shattuck-St. Mary’s

Fesler-lampert perForming arts series season tHe national plaYers present William sHaKespeare’s “tWelFtH nigHt”

isHmael

thursday, september 27, 2018 adults $20, students $12

monday, march 18, 2019 adults $18, students $11

The Fesler-Lampert season opens with an astounding one-man show that had a run of sold-out shows at The Jungle Theater in Minneapolis in 2018. Drawn from Herman Melville's classic novel, Moby Dick, Ishmael tells the tale of a restless school teacher still haunted by the incredible and tragic adventure of his youth.

The National Players, America’s longest running touring theater company, brings one of Shakespeare’s most delightful plays, “Twelfth Night”, to Shattuck-St. Mary’s. “Twelfth Night” is a classic tale of reckless revenge, mistaken identity, and mismatched lovers.

Don’t miss this opportunity to see one of Shakespeare’s most popular comedies performed on the Newhall stage! www.nationalplayers.org

JoHn o’conor

liZZY tHe Dream girl

thursday, march 21, 2019 adults $18, students $11

thursday, January 17, 2019 adults $18, students $11

Irish pianist John O’Conor has been gathering wonderful reviews for his masterly playing for over forty years. “Impeccable technique and musicality… it would be hard to imagine better performances” (Sunday Times – London). “This artist has the kind of flawless touch that makes an audience gasp” (Washington Post). Come see him perform in the intimate space of Newhall Auditorium. www.johnoconor.com

Explore the mysterious world of hypnosis and discover the amazing power and creativity of the human mind. Lizzy presents a vibrant, high-energy show that amazes audiences when they witness the power of hypnosis firsthand. Her show is enlightening, entertaining and suitable for all ages. www.lizzythedreamgirl.com

tHe seconD citY – it’s not You, it’s me

tHe roe FamilY singers & JacK Klatt Minnesota Music Coalition presents Caravan du Nord A Traveling Showcase of Minnesota Music Friday, October 5, 2018 Adults $20, Students $12 Caravan du Nord, a tour of Minnesota by some of the state’s best bands and emerging artists and sponsored by the Minnesota Music Coalition and MPR’s 89.3 The Current is coming to Faribault. The tour features The Roe Family Singers, a band that marries old-time sounds from barn dances, fiddle pulls, with banjo, autoharp, guitar, other traditional instruments and Appalachian clogging. Jack Klatt, a Minneapolis-based balladeer, bluesman and finger-style guitarist opens. www.roefamilysingers.com • www.jackklatt.com www.mnmusiccoalition.org/programs/caravan-du-nord

The Second City has been laughing at love and its infinite scroll of side effects for decades. In the world-famous comedy company’s latest laughter-inducing undertaking, IT’S NOT YOU, IT’S ME. - THE SECOND CITY takes shots at heartbreak, missed connections and the mire of human relationships. This is a perfect show for Valentine’s Day! Recommended for mature audiences. www.secondcity.com

FESLER-LAMPERT SEASON TICKETS: Adults $100 • Students $60

simple gifts with Billy mclaughlin thursday, December 6, 2018 adults $25, students $15 (adults $30, students $15 at door)

SimpleGifts, led by national recording artist Billy McLaughlin, makes musical magic by bringing a modern flair to traditional Christmas carols and hymns. Staying close to the heart of Christmas by avoiding commercial and pop repertoire has become the trademark of this award-winning ensemble. They perform acoustic instrumental and vocal music that harkens back to a quieter, simpler time.

This is what Christmas is all about! www.simplegiftsmusic.net

ACOuSTIC ROOTS SEASON TICKETS: Adults $77 • Students $47

ALL SHOWS AT 7:30 IN HISTORIC NEWHALL AuDITORIuM * “This activity is funded, in part, by the Minnesota State Arts Board through the arts and cultural heritage fund as appropriated by the Minnesota State Legislature with money from the Legacy Amendment vote of the people of Minnesota.”

The Hunts are an indie-alternative folk band comprised of seven brothers and sisters. Born and raised in the south lands of Chesapeake, Virginia, the siblings grew up in a musical home and fell in love with composing their own music.

Their growing popularity and recognition are evident with over 10 million listens on Spotify. They’ve been invited to play at numerous major music festivals including Firefly, Summerfest, Austin City Limits, and more. The band is touring in support of their latest album, “Darlin’ Oh Darlin’”, released earlier this year. www.thehuntsmusic.com

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thursday, January 24, 2019 adults $25, students $15 (adults $30, students $15 at door)

Born in Charleston, South Carolina and raised in rural Washington, singer-songwriter, Jeremy Messersmith, has become one of Minnesota’s most recognized and celebrated artists. He’s received praise from The New York Times, NPR, USA Today, Paste Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, Time Magazine, Spin, The Rolling Stone among others. Jeremy tours extensively throughout the world – even opening for Barack Obama. His latest album, “Late Stage Capitalism” was released in the spring of 2018. www.jeremymessersmith.com

PACKAgE DISCOuNTS:

Pick 4 or more shows (can be in combination with Fesler-Lampert Series and Acoustic Roots Music Series) - Save 10%. Call for Group Rates.

Order Tickets Online www.s-sm.org/feslerlampert

SSM Box Office: 507-333-1620 www.s-sm.org

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the Hunts

tHurs, nov. 5th, 2018 aDults $20, stuDents $12

Jeremy messersmith*

thursday, march 28, 2019 adults $18, students $11

Now celebrating their 25th year in Minnesota, Ragamala Dance approaches the South Indian dance form of Bharatanatyam as a living, breathing language with which to speak about the contemporary human experience. The Star Tribune praised Nocturne as, “an enchanting journey—for one hour we are transported into an exquisite dream state.” www.ragamaladance.org

Faribault, MN

acoustic roots music series season

ragamala Dance companY present nocturne *

thurs, Feb 14th, 2019 adults $25, students $15

latest Conuring spin off is the “Nun.” Nun costumes are a dime a dozen, so if you can master the Valek makeup, you could scare the pants off of anyone. If you were smart, you bought your costume after Halloween last year, and in which case, you may have a new Pennywise the clown mask handy. I prefer the classic Tim Curry It costume, but I will agree the reboot is probably a scarier costume. Really, any clown costume will do, especially if you have friends who are afraid of clowns. You are sure to make someone uncomfortable walking around in that thing.

If you really want a costume that will draw attention and make people uncomfortable- go with anything political. I foresee some Putin, Donald Trump & Colin Kaepernick costumes. They will probably less prevalent than they would be in a Presidential election year, so you might stand out?

And if you get cold feet on the Kaepernick idea, you can use your afro wig and go as a member of the Jackson 5 instead.

Whether you choose to dress or not, I hope that this article gave you some insight as to what you might expect while out and about on my favorite night of the year. As for me, I am undecided. To my children’s dismay it might be another lazy year of whipping out the cat ear headband and some black leggings. But one thing is for sure, while my oldest daughter will likely stay home to hand out candy, you will see me out on the streets using my youngest two to score free candy for miles.

Have a safe and happy Halloween!

SMS

All pricing: Adults $20 • Students $11 unless noted.

All Performances at 7:30pm in Historic Newhall Auditorium unless noted. w w w. s o u t h e r N m I N n SCENE. c o m

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Mankato’s History Fest:

Where history comes alive 16

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BY grace webb editor@southernminnscene.com

W

hen you walk onto Jack McGowan’s farm only a few miles outside of Mankato, you step into a completely different world — one where cowboys and medieval knights live in harmony, where pirates tease the dour-faced Temperance Lady, where trolls can be vanquished through the magic of fairy dust. Huck Finn plays pranks on Theodore Roosevelt, while a Revolutionary War spy presses a secret message into your hand and breathlessly asks you to deliver it to the next safe house. On one corner of the property, a crowd gathers to watch Jack himself launch a pumpkin from his homemade catapult, and across the way, a grinning mad scientist shows off his giant death ray. There’s a petting zoo full of bleating animals and the world’s fastest beaver skinner showing off his trade.

It’s all part of History Fest, a four-day extravaganza that gives kids and adults alike the chance to see history — real and imagined — in a whole new way.

“When a kid sees history this way, they remember it, and it’s not boring,” McGowan explained. “It’s fun.”

According to McGowan, History Fest started when an area school asked if they could use McGowan’s property to host a mini Renaissance Festival for their school carnival. It was a huge hit, and more schools wanted to participate the next year. Eventually, McGowan decided to expand the festival from medieval times to

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all of history and invite any school that wanted to participate. That was about 25 years ago, and now, the festival draws roughly 4,000 kids every year from across Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa and South Dakota.

It takes a lot of manpower to put on such a detailed event every year, and that’s where volunteer coordinator Julie Hinicker comes in. Hinicker has been involved in History Fest for nearly 20 years, both as a reenactor and as a volunteer. Nowadays, she helps

organize more than 250 volunteers and reenactors.

“I will feature any era of history that I can find,” she said. “Any person who comes to me with an idea with an idea, I’ll do it. I don’t know of any place else in the area where you can take a child and have them see something as simple as a garden and as complicated as how the Vikings dyed their yarn. These kids get to see things they’ve

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“You take what comes down the pike and you put it out there, and if they entertain the kids and make a kid think, that’s all that matters.”

– Jack McGowan

September is Burger month at Starfire Grill, we will have 2 different specialty burgers every week throughout the month.

Stop in and See uS today!

204 2nd Street SW, Waseca | 507.833.8756 Call for information & Reservations: 507.835.1146 After 4pm: 507.837.9848

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204 2nd Street South West, Waseca, MN 507.833.4700

206 2nd Ave. SW For Reservations: 507.461.1387

204 2nd Street South West, Waseca, MN 507.833.7540

Call for information & Reservations: 507.835.1146 After 4pm: 507.837.9848

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Coming to Potter Auditorium

Hornucopia

HORNS OF THE ROCK ERA

October 20 A Celebration of the music of

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Neil DiamonD

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never seen before and learn that learning can be fun.”

According to Hinicker, the medieval knights are always a popular attraction, as well as professional pirate reenactor Minnesota Jack Sparrow and his crew. And while some of the festival’s colorful performers aren’t exactly “historical”—such as the friendly fairies and the mischievous Huck Finn—Hinicker says that’s all part of the charm of Jack McGowan’s farm.

“We have a little bit of the Irish mystical spattered in,” she said. “How can you be Jack McGowan and not have that? If children aren’t exposed to the magical and the fantastical, how will they learn to use their imaginations?”

Mankato resident Susan Hynes has volunteered at the festival for several years now, continually reprising her love-to-hate character of the “Temperance Lady.” Dourly dressed all in black, Hynes carries a sign warning of the “evils of drink” and also a hatchet that she sometimes threatens to use to chop down the local saloon if they start selling anything other than sarsaparilla.

“It’s been a great character for me to play,” Hynes said. “I’m teaching about history in a fun way. You can do both at the same time. It’s the best combination. I used to think history was dull and boring. I’d never think that now.”

“I get to work with the most wonderful people in Minnesota,” McGowan said. “They come and they care about kids and education, making a kid smile and learn at the same time.

You take what comes down the pike and you put it out there, and if they entertain the kids and make a kid think, that’s all that matters.”

History Fest runs from Oct. 10-14, with the first three days reserved for school kids and the last day open to the public. SMS

FOR MORE INFO WHAT: History Fest WHERE: 20002 Hawkeye Lane, Mankato WHEN: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Oct. 14 COST: $5 per person (kids five and under are free) WEBSITE: www.historyfestmankato.com

with The Killer Vees

November 10 Concerts at 7:30pm, Doors open 6pm with pre-show food and drink options Tickets available online, on the phone, or during onsite box offices hours

INTERESTED IN VOLUNTEERING? According to Hinicker, History Fest is still in need of more volunteers, especially reenactors and a few people who could volunteer all four days.

Volunteers should be 12 years old or older. For more information about volunteering, visit the festival’s website, www.historyfestmankato.com.

ADD YOUR EVENT FOR FREE TO THE TIMELINE CALENDAR. GO TO W W W. S O U T H E R N M I N N . C O M / S C E N E / C A L E N D A R & C L I C K + A D D A N E V E N T

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chatfield center for the arts

405 Main St S | 507.884.7676

chatfieldarts.org

W W W. S O U T H E R N M I N N SCENE. C O M

| OCTOBER 2018

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Little Shop of Horrors.

BY grace webb editor@southernminnscene.com

T

curtain to rise.

Live theater draws you into the story in a way movies and television just can’t do. The actors are only feet away from you, living, breathing, moving in real time. A painted backdrop can transport you to ancient Egypt or inner-city Brooklyn. All it takes are a few scattered props to pull you into a different world. Theater can be so simple — and yet, so immersive.

Mankato’s community acting troupe, the Merely Players, knows a thing or two about bringing fantasy worlds onto a real-life stage.

Since 1982, the group has been delighting area audiences with everything from Shakespeare to Brigadoon, Harvey to Oklahoma!

They’ve produced more than 100 shows and impacted more than 30,000 volunteers and theater patrons — and they’re not slowing down any time soon.

The Snow Queen.

All the world’s a stage:

A Profile of Mankato’s

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here’s something inherently thrilling about waiting for a live theatrical performance to start — the hush as the lights dim, the little noises and movements backstage, the anticipation that builds as you watch for the

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Setting the stage According to outgoing artistic director Travis Carpenter, the troupe was originally formed by Mankato educator Gretchen Etzell, who directed Oklahoma! at the request of Mankato’s Community Education program. When more than 170 people showed up to auditions, it became apparent that there was a hunger for community theater.

After a few more shows, the official Merely Players (named after a line in Shakespeare’s “As You Like It”) group was formed.

Soon afterwards, the Merely Players moved into the Lincoln Community Center in Mankato, where they have been for the past 30 years. The group fundraised for new seat cushions, new carpeting, and a new coat of paint, taking their role as theater stewards very seriously.

“The organization has worked hard from the beginning,” Carpenter said. “You are never going to get rich being involved with community theater. You have to become very resourceful. We’ve scrimped and saved.”

Carpenter became involved with the Merely Players several years ago on the acting side of things, but it wasn’t long before Etzell asked him if he wanted to try his hand

at assistant directing. He has directed shows, run props, run spotlights, helped build sets, taught acting classes, installed the sound system and served on the board of directors, and, in 2012, he took over as artistic director.

“I loved Merely Players and wanted to see it do well,” he said. “I had met such a wonderfully supportive and talented group of people, it kept me coming back.”

When it comes to deciding which shows to produce every season, Carpenter explained that the artistic director is the one who makes recommendations and then the board of directors will offer their perspective.

It’s all about the balance, he said, trying to make sure every season has something for everyone in the audience.

“It’s always a tough balance between producing shows that are artistically challenging while also mixing that with shows that we know audiences will want to come watch,” Carpenter explained. “We want to provide opportunities for everybody in the community to get involved on stage while offering productions that are going to appeal across that same spectrum. Our seasons are kind of all over the place compared to more art house type of groups, but I think we serve a vital role in the community by offering something for everyone.”

Casting the roles Luckily, Carpenter says, Mankato has a wide pool of talent to draw from.

“The Mankato area is just gushing with talent,” he said. “That’s been really interesting to watch over the years as different waves of people come through. There’s always this wonderful blend of new faces and familiar faces. All of our auditions are open auditions. There is no pre-casting. It’s a very egalitarian group, a very open and welcoming group.”

Kendra Braunger has been acting with the Merely Players since 2015, when she landed a roll in The Good Doctor. Since then, she’s also acted in Guys and Dolls, Junie B. Jones, Leading Ladies, Back to the 80s, All Shook Up and Robin Hood.

“You can’t beat the rush of standing backstage before opening night waiting to go on for the first time,” Braunger said. “I always flash back to the first rehearsal and take a second to appreciate the process it took to get us to opening night and the people who got us there.”

According to Braunger, the rehearsal process is about six weeks long, with actors rehearsing a few hours a night, a few days a week for the first few weeks. As opening night draws nearer, rehearsals become more frequent, with nightly practices during tech week (the week before opening). And mu-

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“The mission of the Merely Players Community Theatre is to provide opportunities for participation in the dramatic arts in a safe and creative environment.”

– Merely Players

Upcoming shows November: Oliver! at the Lincoln Community Center March: TBD dinner theater in the KATO Ballroom May: The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) For more information about upcoming shows, visit www. merelyplayers.com.

Looking forward

TOP: Spelling Bee. ABOVE: Robin Hood.

sicals require even more rehearsals because of the song and dance numbers. But for Braunger, all the work is worthwhile because of the theater friends she has made along the way.

“Aside from the joy that I get from making people laugh while I’m on stage, I would have to say that the best part of Merely Players is the people that I have the honor of calling my second family,” she said. “I have met some of the most important people in my life through this organization and I wouldn’t change a thing about my theater journey.”

Chad Brancamp is another actor who has participated in several Merely Players shows. His first show (and first acting experience since eighth grade) was War of the Worlds, followed by The Good Doctor, Miracle on 34th Street, The Snow Queen, Leading Ladies and Back to the 80s. He has also helped behind the scenes during some shows and even tried his hand directing during the

troupe’s annual MN Shorts Festival.

For Brancamp, community theater groups like Merely Players are important because of the opportunities they offer—both to people onstage and people in the audience.

“Community theater gives regular folks like me a chance to be on stage,” he said. “The people involved in shows are there because they want to be a part of something fun—not because it’s their job, but because it’s important to them to have this be a part of their lives and a part of their community. Hopefully, that dedication shows itself in the productions.”

Behind the scenes Like any community acting group, the Merely Players and everyone involved within it have had their share of challenges during their 30-plus career. An obvious one is finding the funds to stage their productions. Technically, the group is

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a nonprofit organization, and everyone involved is volunteer. While they’re able to find grants to cover some of their expenses, they still rely heavily on patrons’ support.

“The people who know us and know the kind of work we put on really respect our group, but we have to work pretty hard at our marketing efforts,” Carpenter said. “We all have other jobs that pay the bills. It’s always an ebb and flow with people involved on the board of directors. We can’t offer much financially, so you’d better enjoy yourself while you’re down there.”

Still, Carpenter said the group is able to do some pretty amazing things despite their lack of funds. It just comes down to old-fashioned ingenuity, such as when their prop master was able to rig an arrow to be “split” on stage during last season’s production of Robin Hood.

“As a nonprofit organization run by volunteers

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As the search for an artistic director continues, Merely Players board member and director Maggie Mays, who has been with the troupe for 21 years, is stepping into some of the duties. Mays said there have been six interviews for the position so far, but no candidate has quite fit, so the search is being put on hold throughout the upcoming season.

“Before we rush into this and take someone that’s not going to work out, we’re going to put the search on hold for a while,” Mays said. “We need someone not only with the ability to do the job, but also the passion.

I want someone who is passionate about growing and offering great theater in Mankato. I’m sure that person’s out there. We just haven’t found them yet.”

Mays said this year’s season was pretty well planned before Carpenter left, and the board of directors has enough experience that the troupe will be able to produce successful shows even as the search for an artistic director continues. Mays will be helping guide directors as they work on their shows this season in case they have questions or need resources. In addition, she will be directing the season’s dinner theater production, which is still being determined.

No matter how long it takes to find the perfect artistic director, Mays said the goal is to continue involving the Mankato community in every aspect of the theater world.

“That’s our No. 1 goal always—to involve as many of the community as we can,” she said. “You roll with the punches—that’s the magic of community theater. That’s exactly what we’re doing without Travis, and it’s working.”

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Guys and Dolls.

CONTINUED from page 21

on a shoestring budget, I couldn’t be prouder of what people are accomplishing,” Carpenter said.

“With the dollar amounts we have, we’re not going to be able to compete with many organizations’ production values, but our group busts their tails and accomplishes some amazing things.”

Carpenter said another challenge is figuring out how to juggle everyone’s schedules, especially now that people are busier than ever before. It’s not uncommon for rehearsals to have someone missing every night, with the director trying to work around tricky scheduling commitments.

“Everybody does everything,” he said. “People are very overscheduled in all their activities.

You’ve got to be committed to be a part of the

show. It’s a demanding rehearsal schedule, but it’s not the same approach to rehearsals any more where people can make it every night. How do we respond to that? What can we do to keep these talented people involved?”

The show must go on The Merely Players will face a new challenge during their 2018-2019 season as Carpenter steps away from his role of artistic director. As he is quick to point out, every involved in the theater has a “day job,” and his requires relocating up to the Twin Cities area—too far to be involved in any leadership role with the theater troupe. But Carpenter isn’t worried about the future of the Merely Players.

“I feel very confident that there are so many talented people in this city, so the [open] spots will spill over pretty seamlessly,” he said. “The

circus doesn’t stop on account of one clown.”

While Carpenter’s time with the Merely Players is ending, he wanted to stress how thankful he is to have been a part of the Mankato theater community for so long.

“I’ve been very grateful for every opportunity that I’ve had with Merely Players,” he said.

“I couldn’t be more thankful for the welcome I received from people in the group, from the support I received from people in the organization and all the smiling faces in the audience over the years. I’m certainly going to miss Merely Players and Mankato.”

As of September, no one has stepped in to fill Carpenter’s considerably large shoes. But no matter what, he promises, the show will go on.

“Mankato audiences are still going to get great entertainment.” SMS

“Community theater is an incredibly supportive environment.

Everyone is welcomed and accepted from the minute you walk on stage to audition to when you take your last bow at curtain call and beyond. I have heard countless stories from people who were struggling to find their place and found it in Merely Players.

There is a real family dynamic with every show I’ve been in that you can’t find anywhere else and that’s what makes Merely Players so special.” – Kendra Braunger

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BY ABBY PATTERSON editor@southernminnscene.com

S

ummer is over, but the fun has just begun for Medieval lovers.

What started out on a 22-acre field as the “A Celebration of Nature, Art, and Life” has become one of the largest Renaissance festivals in the country.

Each year, artisans and patrons across all of the Midwest come to join in on the fun and mischief at the Minnesota Renaissance Festival in Shakopee. The festival has gathered over 300,000 people together each year since opening its doors in 1971, including over 250 Minnesota-native artisans each year.

“You can’t go wrong with the entertainment at the festival, but every year I look forward to seeing all of the different artisans and what new merchandise they have in their booths,” says Stephanie Whipps, the Minnesota Renaissance Festival Marketing and Events Director. “We have artisans who have been handcrafting their wares at the festival for over 30 years. It is great to see everyone from year to year.”

While the Renaissance boasts old traditions, the new food, new events, and more fun are always in the works. Here’s our top-ten favorites at this year’s festival.

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Battle Axe Pub

This brand-new event has old traditions in mind.

Take part in throwing a hatchet or two, while enjoying a nice brew. Throwing axes and drinking beer – what could possibly go wrong? Let the kids get in on the action with the Bow Blast, where they can have fun shooting soft-tip bows and arrows at family and friends.

Fairy Wing Forest

Take a look around Treetop Round to discover a forest full of fairy magic. Meet all of the fairies, pixies, nymphs and other mythical creatures lurking around. However, they only come out to wander from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Wizard’s Flight School Zip Line

Get the full Harry Potter treatment with Wizard’s Flight School Zip Line. A kid-favorite, this attraction gives kids of all ages an entire view of the festival.

Check it out on Shepherd’s Green. The best part?

It’s only $10!

Mermaid Cove

Just like Mermaid Lagoon in Peter Pan, mermaids swim, twirl, and relax right at the Renaissance Festival. Located by the Queen’s Pub and Fairy Wing Forest, Mermaid Cove allows you to see these mythical creatures in action. The legend says if you are lucky enough, the mermaids may even share a piece of their magic with you.

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Food Fit for a King

Find all of your favorite food throughout the Festival, including these new favorites. Feast upon fair classics, such as corn dogs, mini doughnuts, and cheese curds. If you’re looking to switch it up, look no further. Dig into nine new foods and sip on six new tasty drinks. Get your hands on the fried caprese ravioli, a giant pretzel, and even unicorn cake. Wash it all down with some woodchuck pear ginger cider or Odin Vikings mead.

The Danger Committee

Juggling, knife throwing, and lots of fire—you name it, the Danger Committee can do it. Catch a variety of their performances throughout the day and their main Danger Show at 5:30 p.m. Other best-live shows include Robin Hood and The Merry Men, Jousting, and the Fandazzi Fire Circus.

Grand March Parade

See all of the Royal Court and festival entertainers during the Grand March Parade. This beloved tradition will feature the King and Queen, the Royal Guard, the Baron and Baroness of Worcester, and more entertainers of the festival. “[The Grand March Parade] is a favorite because all of the energy of the entire festival comes together to show off what we are all about,” says Whipps.

The Royal Court will grace the public every day at 11:30 a.m. beginning their journey at the Folkstone Well.

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Cock-A-Doodle Zoo

Find animals from near and far at this all-new attraction located. This exotic petting zoo will let you hug a Kangaroo, hang out with a Lemur, and pet an African Porcupine. You can even see Magic, the Renaissance’s new majestic unicorn.

Ye Old Bingo

No need for a bingo marker or to listen for B15—this is a different kind of bingo. Get a free adult or child bingo card at the information booth to start off the day, complete the listed activities on your card throughout the festival, and turn it in by 5 p.m. to win a prize—it’s that simple.

Themed Weekends

New attractions to the festival also included new themed weekends: the Buccaneer Beer Bash and the Bold North Adventure. During the Buccaneer Beer Bash, partons took part August 18 and 19 in belly dancing championships, longbow competitions, and even the Turkey Leg Trot 5K. Over the first weekend of September, the Bold North Adventure included bocce ball tournament and even a new eating contest: the Uff Da Hotdish Eating Contest—you’ll never find something more Minnesotan than that.

Check out these top attractions and more Renaissance fun 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Sept. 30.

Huzzah!

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

THEATER

Vendors  

Winners Announced in our November issue Publishing October 19

AUDITIONS GALLERY Purple Door Youth Theater 

Nov 26 | 5-7 pm 

Nov 27 | 4-6 pm 

Sign up for a time online

Celebrating Minnesota Authors and Books WE ARE THE WILLOWS PICTURE (PORTRAIT)

WORKSHOP

Come join the musicians of We Are the Willows, a 6-piece orchestral rock band out of Minneapolis, to discuss the creation of their album PICTURE (PORTRAIT), Workshop participants will explore their own family histories and discuss creative processes, develop creative habits and practices, and explore songwriting and storytelling together.

Deep Valley Authors and Appetizers Gala Book Festival October 12

October 13

5:30pm

10am - 4pm



Mankato Event Center in the Mankato Mall

FREE PARKING in the Cherry Street Ramp

Where readers and authors meet or Keynote Auth

MUSIC

Dreaming of taking over the garden + nursery business?

RE/MAX Experts will be here to discuss the sale of Twiehoffs!

Face Painting!

k Lorna Landvi

Meet Lorna and David at both Keynote Ill ustrato the Gala and Book Festival! David Geister

NEW this year...

Tuey Wilson, a comic stunt juggler!

1:30pm & 2:45pm

Start a farm-to-table restaurant!

Open a pizza farm!

The entire 30.5 acres is for sale!

r

$40 advanced ticket Tickets available online NOW! www.deepvalleybookfestival.com Delicious appetizers, wine and tea tastings, music, raffle and Lorna Landvik’s one-woman comedy show Gala is a fundraiser for the Deep Valley Book Festival

Book Festival is FREE 40+ Authors & Exhibitors Book sales & signings, author panels, speakers, children’s activities, used book sale, drawings and raffle

Live music with Cynthia Guy Ali

If you can’t make it, contact Jim Barta or Patricia Barta with RE/MAX Experts for more info!

507-330-3035 (Jim) 612-404-0075 (Patricia)

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2018 1:00 PM TO 4:00 PM This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Prairie Lakes Regional Art Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund

Fun For All Ages! 

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Form Versus Function:

Window Treatment Edition Ian Laird, LS Ian works at The Design Element and specializes in window treatments and lighting. He can help you with all of your lighting and window treatment needs and questions – both product selection and space planning.

W

indow dressings or window treatments are an ever-evolving element of design. Their necessity is dependent on a variety of factors including but not limited to light control, sound dampening, SPONSORED BY and desired aesthetic. These factors The Design Element are present in almost all window 1711 Premier Drive treatments, but in scaled measure – whether it be full-functioning Mankato, MN draperies, an inside mounted cellular 507.345.8708 shade, or just simply a decorative valance. Choosing which treatment is right for you often comes down strictly to personal taste and understanding how each look functions is key. Let me explain.

I’ll start by dividing window treatments into three overly simplified categories: shades, drapes, and top treatments. This is by no means official categorization, but it helps to process the options.

By shades I refer to a treatment typically mounted on a headrail as one unit whose primary existence is functional light control. Some shades are “softer” and are available in an array of fabrics and add an organic touch. Others are more streamlined and are used

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more architecturally as a design feature and could be considered “harder” in overall design look and feel. Both types can provide optimal light control, so your choice would be narrowed down through sound control or aesthetics in this case.

Draperies are almost exclusively considered a “soft fashion”. Some trending styles in draperies are grommet-top panels, ring-top panels, threefingered pinch pleats, or ripple folds. They can all be pleasing aesthetically depending on the style you prefer and all have varying light control depending on fabric choice and construction. Draperies can be modest, but are more often a statement piece whether you’re intending the statement or not.

Top treatments can be a simple way of incorporating design without adding profound function. These are items added to the tops of windows and are often referred to as cornice boards or valances. If you don’t like the look of a bare window but don’t like the fussiness of a drape or shade, maybe consider a simple top treatment to add a pattern or color that ties-in with the other elements in the room. They can be used to hide the less attractive function of a shade or drapery treatment, as well, covering the top mechanics of each.

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Each of these generalized treatments can work in tandem with the other. You can use a valance with a drapery treatment, a drapery treatment with a shade, a shade with a valance, or maybe a shade with both a valance and a drapery. Keep in mind, though, that the more layers you have the heavier the overall look may appear. You may not want a treatment at all – the choice is yours and the struggle is real. Window treatments are one of the more “custom” aspects of design and the aid of a designer can really come into play here. A designer can assist with not only the fabric choices and color choices but with the style choices. It also helps to have an outside person look at the room as a whole in not only choosing the correct window treatment but help achieve the overall aesthetic you desire by tweaking a few other materials, such as furniture, flooring, accessories, or maybe just paint color. The Design Element can be your steward for all of these things and more!

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THE Tigger SCENE

TIGGER LUNNEY Tigger Lunney is a writer, talker, veteran of the music industry and Minnesota politics, and the overly opinionated dad of two overly opinionated kids.

Twitter @tiggerlunney.

Lemon Jail:

Tour Manager Tells Tales of Life on the Road with The Replacements

A

good storyteller needs two things: they have to know how to spin a yarn, and they’ve got to have yarns to spin.

In the case of Bill Sullivan — former owner of long-running Minneapolis rock club the 400 Bar, Twin Cities music scene impresario, and road crew/manager for a number of legendary acts across the music spectrum — he’s got both in spades.

But it’s the gig that made him in the 1980s, as touring road guy for TC alternative heroes The Replacements, that is the driving force behind his latest venture: Lemon Jail, a collection of tales of the ‘Mats on the road.

Music memoirs — of which there’s a million — can be more about the reader’s fandom than unique or original content. It’s easy to put some familiar stories together and know collectors are going to pay for it. But there’s only so many couches you can throw out so many 10th story windows, only so many tropes you can hit that exist beyond striking a chord with people who want stories about their favorite band, only so many times you can read stories of rock and roll nonsense than aren’t better summed up in the words of Grand Funk Railroad: “Come on dudes, let’s get it on!/and we proceeded to tear that hotel down.”

Certainly, this is a book any ‘Mats completist will want to read. But in Lemon Jail, Sullivan does something far more than please diehard fans: it’s as much his story as the story of the band, a depiction of a time and place just before Nirvana and Napster changed the face of

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music forever. A story that began old boxes rotting in storage spaces and upstairs at the 400 Bar. “Erik Anderson [from University of Minnesota Press] came at me,” Sullivan says, taking a break from work on recording the audiobook version of Lemon Jail. “It started when I was cleaning out all my storage spaces and I came across all my old scribbles and photos and wanted to digitize it. Originally my friend Joe O’Brien and I had the whole thing in a picture book format [funded by Kickstarter]. But [Anderson] said, ‘this is not a story about the Replacements, it’s a story about Bill, and what Bill experienced in this time, this time in American history and rock and roll history and world history. This is a real book, you can write this.’ I went with him because he was young, confident, all the things I used to be.”

Sullivan’s and the ‘Mats’ youth and confidence — sometimes playing out as fearlessly terrible decision making in the moment — is a key theme of the book.

Sullivan doesn’t construct a linear narrative as much as he shares a buffet of stories that move from place to place and time to time — from legendarily sketchy punk dive the Rat in Boston to the Gramercy Hotel in New York City, from opening for Tom Petty in the Orlando Arena to a booth in the CC Club — with the same sort of reckless abandon that embodies the Replacements at their best.

Says Replacements drummer Chris Mars: “It’s the most successful book to capture the essence of our destructive, drunken outcast brigade in all its successes and foibles.”

If you’re reading this looking for some lost treasure of a Replacements story, pick the book up. It’s full of them and I won’t spoil them here. But what makes the book compelling, whether you are a fan of the band or not, is

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how Sullivan weaves his own story, from young full-ofshit punk to experienced stage manager, throughout, without betraying the often ridiculous, whiskey-soaked reality that was life in the van.

Lemon Jail captures the outsized personalities of the Replacements while still placing the reader in the van with them, as casually and hilarious as if you were one of the crew. Or, as Sullivan sums up life on the road and the relationships built across America with a throwaway line: “When we came to town, it was usually a pretty fun time for everybody.”

In writing Lemon Jail, Sullivan found a whole new challenge unlike anything he’s experienced in his years on the road, getting what he calls a “crash course from the talented people supporting me doing this” as he went. Even now, recording the audio book and setting up readings, can be frustrating, because it’s a completely different experience. “I get a little testy about it. ’Goddamn, why aren’t these bookstores calling me back?’

But bookstores operate differently than rock clubs,” he laughs.

Still, Sullivan’s book establishes a new chapter for himself as a rock and roll raconteur, even as he navigates its challenges or downplays his abilities. “Storytelling is never going to go away,” he says. “I was in this bar once and this biker tough guy was pointing out who would be in his tribe at the end of the world, like “she sews things, we’ll need her, etc.’ I said, ‘I guess I’m out of this scenario,’ and he said, ‘naw, you tell stories! You’ll be around for a while — until we get hungry.’” SMS

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Over 70 Years of Pappas Family Ownership!

Minnesota Restaurant Association’s 2012 Restaurant of the Year

Superb Cuisine since 1854

The Hubbell House first opened as a stagecoach stop in 1854. Paul Pappas laid his eyes on the old limestone structure in 1946 and knew he had found the location of his dream restaurant. Thanks for voting us for Although times have changed, Early-American hospitality is still available in Mantorville.

BEST FINE DINING

502 North Main Street, Mantorville, MN | 507.635.2331

(25 Miles East on HWY 14, to Kasson Exit, then 2 miles North on HWY 57)

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THE

Rocks, Brats & Beer Mystic Lake Casino in Prior Lake – Sept. 28-29

The New Standards Zumbrota State Theatre – Sept. 22

Jazz trio, The New Standards, riff off pop songs by Brittney Spears, Adam Ant and Kurt Weill, allowing a little nuttiness into the show while staying serious about

musicianship. The New Standards aren’t a cover band, but operate more on the model of jazz bands in the 50s and 60s that utilized popular songs of the day to riff off of.

This is something truly different to experience for those who enjoy frequenting their local theaters. Check it out and enjoy the beautiful space that is the Zumbrota State Theatre. www.crossingsatcarnegie.com A d d y o u r e v ent f or F R E E to t h e T I M E L I N E ca l en d ar . G O T O w w w. s o u t h ern minn s c ene . c o m / c a len d a r & C l ic k + A d d a n E v ent

Sat Sep 22, 2018 Tour Sep 22, 26, 30, 2018 10:00 am | $12 Charles E. Gagnon Museum and Sculpture Garden 2500 4th Street SW Rochester, MN 55902 The Charles E. Gagnon Museum and Sculpture Garden is Rochester’s crown jewel of cultural institutions. Here you can learn more about the exceptional bronze sculptures of Charles Eugene Gagnon. When Chuck passed away in 2012, the museum was founded to honor his legacy of 50 creative years in bronze sculpture. The residence houses his studio and bronze sculptures created by this Minnesotan sculpture. The home and studios provides a tranquil environment to enjoy beautiful examples of Chucks figurative sculpture. You can experience a sense of the museums special ambience on our scheduled tours.

Hooray for Saturday: Family Dance Party - 10:30 am | Free Rochester Public Library

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101 SE 2nd Street Rochester, MN 55904 Lights, shakers, dance! Put on your dancing shoes for 30 minutes of non-stop dancing fun!

Shrek The Musical Sep 22, 27, 29, 2018 7:00 pm | $21-$31.

Adult: $31Senior: $26Student: $21 Rochester Civic Theatre 20 Civic Center Dr SE Rochester, MN 55904 The Rochester Civic Theatre is excited to take you and your family or friends on a thrilling and hilarious adventure to a land far, far away. Shrek The Musical is a whimsical and highly-entertaining production that’s fit for the whole family! Show times: ThursdaysSaturday: 7-9 PM Sundays: 2-4 PM Show Dates: September 7-30 Tickets on Sale now! Adult: $31 Senior: $26 Student: $21 About Shrek The Musical Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film, Shrek The Musical is a Tony Award-winning fairy tale adventure. Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek.... And thus begins the tale of an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking Donkey and a feisty princess who resists her rescue.

Comedian Jen Kober - 7:30 pm | $12-$23

Paradise Center for the Arts 321 Central Ave. Faribault, MN 55021 Jen Kober has energetically bounded onto the national stage bringing crowds to their feet with her original blend of stand-up, storytelling, and improvised rockn-roll comedy. Her hard-hitting hour is phenomenally funny as Kober commands the stage and dares you not to laugh. Jen was the 2016 Winner of NPRs Snap Judgement Comedic Performance of the Year for her Girl Scout Cookie story. Her comedy is also on the big screen, with appearances in several TV comedies (The Middle, The Mindy Project and Curb Your Enthusiasm, just to name a few) as well as Film.

Trian at The Harvest Home 7:30 pm | $10-$25. $20 through August 31st$25 after August 31st$10 youth tickets for ages 18 and under The Celtic Junction 836 Prior Ave. North Saint Paul, MN 55104 Don’t miss this opportunity to hear Trian in concert featuring compositions by Grammy-nominated fiddler, Liz Carroll, songs

by Dith Sproule of award-winning band, Altan, and the virtuosic playing of Billy McComiskey.

Rochester Repertory Theatre presents: Godspell Sep 22, 27,

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Cool down with ice cold beer paired with festival favorites like brats, sweet corn, cheese curds, mini donuts and more – all while listening to some rock music.

On Friday, George Thorogood and The Destroyers take the stage first followed by The Texas Gentleman. Then on Saturday, enjoy John Kay & Steppenwolf, Eric Burdon & 29, 2018 7:30 pm | $28 Rochester Repertory Theatre 103 Seventh Street NE Rochester, MN 55906 Godspell A Musical by Stephen Schwartz Book by John Michael Tebelak Composed of musical parables based on the Gospel according to Matthew, Godspell features a comedic troupe of eccentric players who team up with Jesus to teach his lessons in a new age. An eclectic blend of songs ranging from pop to vaudeville, including the popular Day by Day, help depict Jesus life as it is played out onstage bringing the Gospels message of kindness, tolerance and love vibrantly to life.

Little Women Sep 22, 25, 2830, Oct 2, 9, 16, 19, 2018 7:30 pm | $37-$47 The Jungle Theater 2951 Lyndale Ave South Minneapolis, MN 55408

by Kate Hamill dir. by Sarah Rasmussen SEPTEMBER 15 - OCTOBER 21, 2018 In the midst of the Civil War, the four March sisters are set on a journey from adolescence to adulthood: a classic tale saturated with a contemporary air.

The Jungle commissioned Kate Hamill, a playwright whos been praised by The New York Times as ingenious, saucy, & spunky, to adapt this beloved and timely classic work and reunites her with Sarah Rasmussen (Sense & Sensibility at Guthrie Theater).

Little Women will surprise, excite, and empower you.

The New Standards - 7:30 pm | $22-$26. $22 in advance, $26

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at the door State Theatre 96 E 4th Street Zumbrota, NM 55992 The Jazz trio The New Standards riff off pop songs by Brittany Spears, Adam Ant and Kurt Weill, allowing a little nuttiness into the show while staying serious about their musicianship. Crossings brings them to the State Theatre Sat., Sep. 22 at 7:30pm. The New Standards arent a cover band, but operate more on the model of jazz bands in the 50s and 60s that utilized popular songs of the day to riff off of. Started in 2005 as an off-shoot project between Minneapolis based musicians and friends Chan Poling (piano), Steve Roehm (vibes) and John Munson (bass), TNS has grown into a globe-spanning adventure, filling theaters and clubs around the world, spawning several CDs, videos, cartoons, dance/theater projects, and ancillary gewgaws that have charmed and delighted an ever-multiplying legion of faithful fans.

The Harvest Home - Traditional Irish Music Day - All Day | $10-$40. Workshop: $35, $40 after Aug 31Talk: $15, $18 after Aug 31Concert: $20, $25 after Aug 31, $10 kids The Celtic Junction 836 Prior Ave. North Saint Paul, MN 55104 THE HARVEST HOME - TRADITIONAL IRISH MUSIC DAY The Center for Irish Music presents The Harvest Home - Traditional Irish Music Day featuring Liz Carroll, Billy McComiskey, and Dith Sproule who are Trian. Experience

The Animals and Savoy Brown. Oh, and it’s a casino, so catch the music and beer and then head to the slots and card tables. www.mysticlake.com

a full day of workshops in fiddle, accordion, song, guitar & tunes (all instruments) capped off with an evening concert by Trian at 7:30 p.m. All ages welcome!

ing, and a delicious African meal served following the service. This event is free, although there will be a freewill donation taken to support the African Community Health Initiative.

Sun Sep 23, 2018

Twin Cities Bridal Show 12:00 pm | $15-$20. General Admission= $15General Admission + Fashion Show= $20 Saint Paul River Centre 175 West Kellogg Boulevard St Paul, MN 55102 The Twin Cities Bridal Show is your Go-To for everything you need for your wedding. It is your one opportunity to experience everything up close and in person; taste delicious cakes, see beautiful flowers, and find your dream dress.

Mikah Meyer: Guest Speaker, Singer and LGBTChristian Activist - 8:30 am | Free Peace United Church of Christ 1503 2nd Ave. NE Rochester, MN 55906 MIKAH MEYER Singer and Speaker Visits 417 National Park Sites to Spread Message of Love and Acceptance ROCHESTER, SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2018 Join Today Show-featured pastor’s kid and National Cathedral countertenor singer, Mikah Meyer, at Peace UCC on September 23rd (8:30/11am) as he shares songs and a sermon based on his nonstop, 3-year road trip to all 417 National Park Service sites.

As heard on NPR, Mikah has spent the past 2.5 years living in a cargo van while attempting to set a world record as the youngest person to visit the entirety of the National Park System.

African Service - 9:30 am | Free Christ Episcopal Church 7305 Afton Road Woodbury, MN 55125 Join Christ Episcopal Church for an African Service beginning at 9:30am on Sunday, September 23rd. There will be music, danc-

A Celebration of Faribault: The 1855 Live Show Sep 23, 30, 2018 2:00 pm | $10-$16 Paradise Center for the Arts 321 Central Ave. Faribault, MN 55021 A Celebration of Faribault: The 1855 Live Show Written & Directed by Logan Ledman & Samuel Temple, featuring a Youth Orchestra led by Sam Dwyer, performing original compositions. Creators of the Faribault Community Television documentary series 1855, Logan Ledman & Samual Temple, host a journey through Faribaults compelling and inspiring story in a commemoration of the town and its history.

Shrek The Musical Sep 23, 30, 2018 2:00 pm | $21-$31. Adult:

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fairy tale adventure. Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek.... And thus begins the tale of an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking Donkey and a feisty princess who resists her rescue.

Mon Sep 24, 2018

STOMP! New Ulm – Morgan Creek Vine – Oct. 6

New Ulm’s Morgan Creek Vineyards’ Harvest Festival comes with heavy competitive style grape stomping and performance art revelry, and live music. It’s an honorable

salute to the 2018 growing season.

The main event for the first weekend of New Ulm’s Oktoberfest is Morgan Creek Vineyards’ 20th Annual Great Grape Stomp on the winery festival grounds nine miles east of New Ulm, 15 miles west of Mankato, off of scenic Hwy. 68 along the Southern Minnesota River Valley.

Featuring this season the Bavarian guest musicians Oachkazlschwoarf; the Minnesota Traditional Morris Dancers of the Minnesota Renaissance Festival; and the second year for a new addition to the dance line-up, the Satori Violet Belly Dancers of Mankato; and the infamous New Ulm Narren - the Black Forest Masked Visitors - all will perform on the winery grounds from 12:00 - 3:00. A special treat to close out the day is the STOMP! rock band.

Also, a taste tour, wood-and-pit-fired food, fire pit pork.

Love and Logic Early Childhood Parenting Made Fun! - 6:15 pm | $30-$175. Financial consideration always given with need!

Perspectives Therapy Center 300 3rd Avenue Southeast Rochester, MN 55904 Register Now! http://warriorsoftheopenheart.eventbrite.com/ An early childhood parenting program designed by the experts at the Love and Logic Institute for children birth to six.

Tue Sep 25, 2018 Make-N-Take: Scrapbooking - 6:00 pm | Free Rochester Public Library 101 SE 2nd Street Rochester, MN 55904 Drop in to make two scrapbook pages. Participants can come anytime between 6-8 PM. Family Dance Party - 6:30 pm | Free Rochester Public Library 101 SE 2nd Street Rochester, MN 55904 Lights, shakers, dance! Put on your dancing shoes for 30 minutes of non-stop dancing fun!

Wed Sep 26, 2018 Potter RX: Make it! - 9:30 am | $35-$40. $35 Member/$40 Non-Member 125 Live Center for Active Adults 125 Elton Hills Dr NW Rochester, MN 55901 Come to the clay studio with questions for how to make that pottery form you dream about (or just saw on Pinterest). Instructor Kate Bauman will work with you to create that illusive form on the potter’s wheel, or by handbuilding methods.

Johnsmith Chatfield Center for the Arts – Oct. 13

In October, as part of the Chosen Bean Concert Series lineup, Chatfield Center for the Arts is hosting regional favorite, and national/international troubadour, Johnsmith.

Hailing from Trempealeau, WI with faded jeans and an infectious smile, Johnsmith could be one of those artists who possesses a genius that cannot be denied, ignored, or overlooked. He is sought after for festivals and house concerts alike. His new record, “Ginkgo” adds #8 to his collection of solo releases, all greeted with rave reviews.

Named after the Chosen Bean Coffeehouse once located on Main Street in Chatfield, the Chosen Bean Concerts Series has garnered a reputation for presenting the best in live folk music performed by regional and national musicians who stretch the gamut from legendary icons to emerging talents. Originally launched in 2011, the series is now heading into its 15th run and continues to be presented in Southeast Minnesota’s premier listening room, the American Legion Room at Chatfield Center for the Arts.

Speed-Friending - 5:30 pm | Free Forager Brewery 1005 6th St NW Rochester, MN 55901 New to Rochester? Not new in town but looking to expand your social circle? Join RPL for Speed-Friending at Forager Brewery! What is speed-friending? It’s like speed-dating, but platonic - a fun, fast, low-pressure way to meet new people.

Walk-ins are welcome, but space is limited.

www.chatfieldarts.org/performances

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$31Senior: $26Student: $21 Rochester Civic Theatre 20 Civic Center Dr SE Rochester, MN 55904

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The Rochester Civic Theatre is excited to take you and your family or friends on a thrilling and hilarious adventure to a land far, far away. Shrek The Musical is a whimsical and highly-entertaining production that’s fit for the whole family! Show times: Thursdays-

Saturday: 7-9 PM Sundays: 2-4 PM Show Dates: September 7-30 Tickets on Sale now! Adult: $31 Senior: $26 Student: $21 About Shrek The Musical Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film, Shrek The Musical is a Tony Award-winning

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Thu Sep 27, 2018 Improv Jam - 7:00 pm | Free Rochester Public Library, Room B, second floor 101 Second St. SE Rochester, MN 55904 Join a group of intermediate to

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advanced improv actors as we develop improv skills through games and exercises.

Ishmael - 7:30 pm | $12-$20 Newhall Auditorium 1000 Shumway Ave Faribault, MN 55021 Drawn from Herman Melville’s classic novel, Moby Dick, Ishmael tells the tale of a restless school teacher still haunted by the incredible and tragic adventure of this youth. A shape-shifting actor and three bluegrass musicians conjure a funny, thoughtful, harrowing play about one man’s drive to see the world and another man’s insatiable quest to destroy it. Receive 2 FREE tickets to the play with an overnight stay at the Historic Hutchinson House B&B, located just a few minutes from the Shattuck-St. Mary’s campus.

Fri Sep 28, 2018 Justin Timberlake - 7:00 pm | $21 Xcel Energy Center 199 West Kellogg Boulevard St. Paul, MN 55102 Event: Justin Timberlake - TixTM Date: 28 September 2018 Time: 7:30 PM to 10:30 PM Min. Ticket Price: $21.00 Booking: https:// www.tixtm.com/events/search/ Justin-Timberlake Comedian Sebastian Maniscalco - 7:00 pm | $43.75-$63.75 State Theatre 805 Hennepin Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55402 On the heels of a wildly successful start to 2018, comedian, actor, author Sebastian Maniscalco kicks off the fall leg of his blockbuster Stay Hungry international tour.

Ethan Bortnick Live in Concert - Generations of Music - 7:00 pm | $25 for one ticket, $40 for two tickets, $75 for four tickets Austin High School - Knowlton Auditorium 301 3rd St NW Austin, MN 55912 Join Ethan Bortnick as he performs some of the most popular songs for all generations to enjoy together. The concert features a perfect mix of his original songs, current radio hits, Beatles, Michael Jackson, Chopin, Billy Joel, Neil Diamond, Broadway, A Celebration of Faribault: The 1855 Live Show - 7:30 pm | $10-$16 Paradise Center for the Arts 321 Central Ave. Faribault, MN 55021 A Celebration of Faribault: The 1855 Live Show Written & Directed by Logan Ledman & Samuel Temple, featuring a Youth Orchestra led by Sam Dwyer, performing original compositions. Creators of the Faribault Community Television documentary series 1855, Logan Ledman & Samual Temple, host a journey through Faribaults compelling and inspiring story in a commemoration of the town and its history.

Sat Sep 29, 2018 Rochester’s Hiding Artists Tour - 9:00 am | Free

Rochester, MN Rochester, MN, MN 55901 Go. Explore. Find. Appreciate.

Local art is waiting to be found!

Printed maps will be available at artist location and many supportive Rochester area locations or call 512-426-6306.

American Highway - The Musical Trip - 7:30 pm | $12-$23 Paradise Center for the Arts 321 Central Ave. Faribault, MN 55021 This show returns to the Paradise stage and features some of Southern Minnesotas best musicians including Jason Paulson, Chad Johnson and Carolyn Gleason.

Mixing music and storytelling, this group of award-winning musicians take the audience on a musical journey. Americas favorite road trip music comes to life as we go coast to coast with a great mix of Rock and Roll and Americana.

Ringer Star: A Ringo Starr Tribute! with Lost Faculties - 7:30 pm | $18-$20. $18 in advance and $20 at the door State Theatre 96 E 4th Street Zumbrota, NM 55992 Ringer causes quite a stir wherever he appears, cheerfully being photographed with hundreds of fans, and has been referred to as the best current Ringo Starr tribute artist in the world. He has what some are saying is a ‘Frightening resemblance to The Man Himself’ not only in looks but also as a performer, singing, and playing drums.

The Rustic Mamas’ Fall Market - All Day | Free Steele County Fair Grounds 1525 South Cedar Ave. Owatonna, MN 55060 Foundation Building Barn is on the Steele County Fairgrounds in Owatonna, MN (next to the Village of Yesteryear). Farmhouse Dcor * Rustic Treasures * Boutique Shopping * Farmer’s Market Goods * Wine Tasting * Food Truck & More! The Foundation Barn Building is on the Steele County Fairgrounds, next to the Village of Yesteryear in Owatonna.

Sun Sep 30, 2018 Rochester Repertory Theatre presents: Godspell - 2:00 pm | $28 Rochester Repertory Theatre 103 Seventh Street NE Rochester, MN 55906 Godspell A Musical by Stephen Schwartz Book by John Michael Tebelak Composed of musical parables based on the Gospel according to Matthew, Godspell features a comedic troupe of eccentric players who team up with Jesus to teach his lessons in a new age. An eclectic blend of songs ranging from pop to vaudeville, including the popular Day by Day, help depict Jesus life as it is played out onstage bringing the Gospels message of kindness, tolerance and love vibrantly to life.

Tue Oct 2, 2018 Chinese Brush Painting - 9:30

am | $15-$20. $15 Member/ $20 Non-Member 125 Live Center for Active Adults 125 Elton Hills Dr NW Rochester, MN 55901 Learn this unique brush painting method on rice paper with chi call energy. This ancient method uses breathing to assist in expressing human spirit/chi through ink and animal hair brush. The brush stroke will calm your mind and take you to peaceful feeling.

Instructor Catherine Park has been painting since 1987 and is a long-time member of the National Sume-E Society of America.

Wed Oct 3, 2018 Guided Life Drawing Oct 3, 17, 2018 6:00 pm | $60-$65. $60 Members/ $65 Non-Members 125 Live Center for Active Adults 125 Elton Hills Dr NW Rochester, MN 55901 This course is designed for artists of any skill level who would like to learn more about the art of drawing from a live model. Running every other week, students are welcome to attend a few or all of the classes. Sept. 5th, 9th, Oct. 3rd, 17th. Artist: Abigail Davis.

Registration is required.

Thu Oct 4, 2018 Livingston Taylor performing - 7:00 pm | $40-$50 Dakota Jazz Club & Restaurant 1010 Nicollet Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55403 An evening with Livingston Taylor! Doors are at 6:00 PM

Fri Oct 5, 2018 Pride & Prejudice - 7:00 pm | $5-$25 Paradise Center for the Arts 321 Central Ave. Faribault, MN 55021 Four proposals, three rejections, two marriages, and one scandal.

This play, presented by middle and high school youth from our fall theatre camp program, helps students focus on more advanced aspects of theatre like character development.

Sat Oct 6, 2018 Pride & Prejudice - 2:00 pm | $5-$25 Paradise Center for the Arts 321 Central Ave. Faribault, MN 55021 Four proposals, three rejections, two marriages, and one scandal.

This play, presented by middle and high school youth from our fall theatre camp program, helps students focus on more advanced aspects of theatre like character development.

Amanda Oliver and the New Pedestrians - 7:30 pm | $22$25. $22 in advance and $25 at the door Crossings 320 East Ave Zumbrota, MN 55992 Amanda Oliver & The New

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t l u a b i r a F A T O S E MINN

Making American Stories

Noon to 3pm Downtown Faribault costume parade chili contest kids Games spooky basement tours

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October 13th

Winterfest

thursday, November 29

saturday November 24

1st Weekend of December

Window Decorating contest and horse drawn wagon rides

like us on facebook facebook.com/faribaulttourism/

Downtown Faribault

saturday, December 1 parade of Lights, Fireworks and street dance

visitfaribault.com

Faribault [fair-uh-boh] French n 1852 translates; great people, incredible fun.

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Shawn Colvin Sheldon Theater Red Wing Oct. 6 In an era when female singer-songwriters are ever more ubiquitous, Shawn Colvin stands out as a singular and enduring talent. Her songs are slow-release works of craft and catharsis that become treasured, lifetime companions for their listeners.

As a storyteller, Colvin is both keen and warm-hearted, leavening even the toughest tales with tenderness, empathy, and a searing sense of humor. In the 27 years since the release of her debut album, Colvin has won three Grammy Awards, released eleven albums, written a critically acclaimed memoir, maintained a non-stop national and international touring schedule, appeared on countless television and radio programs, had her songs featured in major motion pictures, and created a remarkable canon of work. www.sheldontheatre.org

Deep Valley Book Festival Mankato – Oct. 13

The Deep Valley Book Festival features dozens of authors, illustrators, publishers, literary organizations

and hundreds of books! Visit with a favorite author or meet a new one, have your book signed, or listen to authors talk about their works. There will be speakers, panel discussions, a reader’s café, food, music, children’s activities, a raffle and more.

Your ticket includes delicious hearty appetizers, wine and tea tastings, music by The Frye, David Geister (in costume) live sketch to be auctioned at the end of the evening and Lorna Landvik’s show, “Letting it Fly.” Landvik is the author of many novels including the bestselling Patty Jane’s House of Curl. She has performed stand-up and improvisational comedy and is also a public speaker, playwright, and actor. Geister, a storyteller with a paint brush, will be present B is for Battle Cry at the book festival. This program is an interactive, costumed experience where people of all ages can participate. hwww.deepvalleybookfestival.com

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Pedestrians are a contemporary Americana (blues, country, and pop) band of an all-star lineup of musicians, featuring original material by Grammy-nominated songwriter Bill Giese.

MN Opera “La Rondine” 8:00 pm | $25-$215

Ordway Center for the Performing Arts 345 Washington Street Saint Paul, MN 55102 LA RONDINE Which Life Would You Choose? From the composer of Madame Butterfly and La Bohme, this rarely performed gem tells the story of an unlikely relationship between Magda, a high-society woman and a nave, handsome poet.

Sun Oct 7, 2018

Thu Oct 11, 2018

National Theatre Live Presents: “Julie” - 3:00 pm | $20 Edina Cinema 3911 West 50th St Edina, MN 55424 Vanessa Kirby (The Crown, Mission Impossible: Fallout) and Eric Kofi Abrefa (The Amen Corner) star in this brand-new production, directed by Carrie Cracknell (NT Live: The Deep Blue Sea) and broadcast live from the National Theatre to cinemas. This new version of August Strindberg’s play Miss Julie, written by Polly Stenham, remains shocking and fiercely relevant in its new setting of contemporary London. Wild and newly single, Julie throws a late-night party.

Scarves with Andrea - 10:00 am | $15-$20. $15 Member/ $20 Non-Member 125 Live Center for Active Adults 125 Elton Hills Dr NW Rochester, MN 55901 Make up to three fun and easy scarves with a wide array of fancy yarns and threads in this class.

The trick is using fibers that are similar and how you knot the fibers together. There are a ton of artistic choices you can have with this project.

Family Clay Fun - 1:00 pm | $5-$10. $5 Member/$2 Children 12 and under /$10 Non-Member 125 Live Center for Active Adults 125 Elton Hills Dr NW Rochester, MN 55901 Join Kate Bauman for a family class where you work side-byside with your kiddo to learn basic hand building techniques in the pottery studio. September 29, October 13, November 10 Artist: Kate Bauman Materials: Included in tuition $5 Members/$2 Children 12 and under

Tue Oct 9, 2018 MN Opera “La Rondine” Oct 9, 11, 13, 2018 7:30 pm | $25-$215 Ordway Center for the Performing Arts 345 Washington Street Saint Paul, MN 55102 LA RONDINE Which Life Would You Choose? From the composer of Madame Butterfly and La Bohme, this rarely performed gem tells the story of an unlikely relationship between Magda, a high-society woman and a nave, handsome poet. But the fate of their courtship is uncertain as Magda is torn between the life she wants and the life she knows.

Fri Oct 12, 2018 14th Annual Studio ArTour & Sale - 4:00 pm | Free Paradise Center for the Arts 321 Central Ave. Faribault, MN 55021 The Studio ARTour is a cooperative venture among a group of artists in the areas around Farm-

TWIEHOFF GARDENS

Do It Yourself fall Décor & craft HeaDquarters

Indian Corn • Gourds • Corn Stalks • Straw Bales Pampas Grass • Mums • Broom Corn • Squash PUMPKINS And much more!

917 St. Paul Road, Faribault MN 34

Save the Date 2nd Annual Fall Festival Sat., Oct. 6 • 1 - 4 pm

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ington, Northfield and Faribault.

Studios are open to the public and you are invited to come out and see where and how the work is performed. In 2018, 19 studios and 38 artists will host artists working in a variety of media.

Lyra Baroque Presents: Vivaldi’s Seven Seasons - 7:30 pm | $5-$25. Adult $25; Senior/ MPR Member $20; Student $5 Mount Olive Church 2830 18th Avenue NW Rochester, MN 55901 Spectacular soloists Lus Otvio Santos and Cla Galhano return for a delightful and evocative program of music by the everpopular Venetian Antonio Vivaldi.

“A Salute to the Music of *Prince!* - *Live!* With Chase & Ovation - 7:30 pm | $30-$34. $30 in advance and $34 at the door State Theatre 96 E 4th Street Zumbrota, NM 55992 Chase & Ovation have performed the music of Prince for the past 11 years, and is the world’s premier tribute to the music of Prince based out of Prince’s beloved hometown of Minneapolis. Chase & Ovation play at venues all over North America, always returning to their Monthly Residency at the world famous Bunkers Music Bar in Minneapolis.

The Minneapolis Pancakes & Booze Art Show Oct 12, 13, 2018 8:00 pm | $13 The Cabooze 917 Cedar Ave S Minneapolis, MN 55404 As the nation’s premier pop-up art show, The Pancakes Booze Art Show provides art lovers an opportunity to explore more than 350 pieces of artwork created by some 70+ artists local to Minneapolis’ unparalleled art scene. Alongside an immensely wide variety of pop art, fine art, and photography; show goers can sip on some of the dankest craft beer or signature cocktails while consuming free pancakes over and over again.

Sat Oct 13, 2018 14th Annual Studio ArTour & Sale Oct 13, 14, 2018 10:00 am | Free Paradise Center for the Arts

321 Central Ave. Faribault, MN 55021 The Studio ARTour is a cooperative venture among a group of artists in the areas around Farmington, Northfield and Faribault.

Studios are open to the public and you are invited to come out and see where and how the work is performed. In 2018, 19 studios and 38 artists will host artists working in a variety of media.

Tropic Goth Music Festival 2:00 pm | $10 Palmers Bar 500 Cedar Ave Minneapolis, MN 55454 The Tropic Goth Music Festival is a music performance art festival Showcasing talents local and touring. Mer-gender Multicultural darkness, rhythms and ceremonial-atmospheres. 20 bands/Djs . Outdoor indoor stage.

Located at Palmers Bar.’ Savannah Jack - 7:30 pm | $12-$23 Paradise Center for the Arts 321 Central Ave. Faribault, MN 55021 From traveling throughout the Caribbean as a featured, headline act on Royal Caribbean Cruise Line to opening arenas and large festival dates for Peter Frampton, John Fogerty, Vince Gill, The Doobie Brothers, Lady Antebellum and as the main opener for the legendary Kenny Rogers, Savannah Jack has honed their skills as outstanding live entertainers who captivate audiences from the very first note.

Sun Oct 14, 2018 You Smell Barn - 11:00 am | $55 Ames Center 12600 Nicollet Avenue Burnsville, MN 55337 See what rural life was like in the 1950s! New Musical. New Comedy. New Location!Coach bus - Leaves 11AM from in front of Wok-n-Roll in Albert Lea. MN Opera “La Rondine” 2:00 pm | $25-$215 Ordway Center for the Performing Arts 345 Washington Street Saint Paul, MN 55102 LA RONDINE Which Life Would You Choose? From the composer of Madame Butterfly and

La Bohme, this rarely performed gem tells the story of an unlikely relationship between Magda, a high-society woman and a nave, handsome poet.

Mon Oct 15, 2018 Evening Beading with Beaders Society of SE MN - 6:00 pm | Free 125 Live Center for Active Adults 125 Elton Hills Dr NW Rochester, MN 55901 If you enjoy beading or making jewelry, then join the Beaders of SE MN for open beading. All skill levels are welcome. BYOB - bring your own beads. Third Mondays, 6-8 pm Sept. 17, Oct. 15, Nov. 19

Tue Oct 16, 2018 Lana Blac at Fright Fest Tour - 7:00 pm | $25 The Cabooze 917 Cedar Ave S Minneapolis, MN 55404 Come out and see Dark Rock Singer, Lana Blac, as she performs dark & heavy tracks off of her upcoming, debut album, which is due out on 10/19. She’s out on tour with the legendary Twiztid! Tickets on sale now.

Thu Oct 18, 2018 Parkside Art Gallery - 4:30 pm | Free Charter House 211 2nd St NW Rochester, MN 55901 The public is invited to attend the Parkside Gallerys art exhibit located within Charter House and featuring artists Joan McLain and Mary Ayshford. Enjoy this free event with wine, hors doeuvres, a gallery talk, and music provided by The Margaret and Susan Shepard Duo. Dance Hall - 5:00 pm | $0-$15. Free Members/$15 Non-Members 125 Live Center for Active Adults 125 Elton Hills Dr NW Rochester, MN 55901 Join 125 LIVE and the Victrola Man Todd Juzwiak for a monthly Dance Hall. Enjoy music from the 20’s, 30’s and 40’s as Todd cranks up his Victrola’s to play

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original 78 rpm records from yesteryear while filling the evening with facts about the musicians, related historical events, a timeline of recording and of course great music.

Foo Fighters Tickets 2018 Foo Fighters Tour Dates & Concerts - TixBag - 7:30 pm | $21 Xcel Energy Center

199 West Kellogg Boulevard St. Paul, MN 55102 Foo Fighters is an American rock band, formed in Seattle, Washington in 1994. It was founded by Nirvana drummer Dave Grohl as a one-man project following the dissolution of Nirvana after the death of Kurt Cobain.

Fri Oct 19, 2018 Spirits, Screams & Screen - 7:30 pm | $20 Paradise Center for the Arts 321 Central Ave. Faribault, MN 55021 Join us for the 2nd Annual MN & More Spirits Tasting and costume party (costumes optional, but prizes will be awarded in several

categories). Sample spirits from local and regional craft distilleries, breweries, and vineyards, enjoy light appetizers and then settle in for a movie in the classic horror film genre. Halloween, Friday the 13th, Carrie?! Youll just have to sit back and wait for the screen and screams to start.

42896-1; October Scene; PAULINE KOESTER; Color; 3 x 6; XPos: 378 YPos: -0, Width: 370 x 432

BREAKFAST 7 DAYS A WEEK M-F 3:30 – 6:30 PM

Bingo Every Friday @ 7PM

Winners Announced in our November issue Publishing October 19

Daily Lunch & Dinner Specials

THE LANDING AT JEFFERSON LAKES

HOME CONSTRUCTION • ONLY 17NEW BUILDING LOTS STILL AVAILABLE:REMODELING ALL LOTS COME WITH LAKE ACCESS TO THE 4-LAKE JEFFERSON CHAIN

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A d d y o u r e v e n t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E c a l e n d a r . G O TO w w w. s o u t h ernminn . c o m / s c ene / c a len d a r & C l i c k + A d d a n E v ent

ALBUM REVIEW

By Daniel G. Moir editor@southernminnscene.com

I

Kenny Chesney Songs For The Saints

n this loving tribute to the Islands he calls home, Chesney releases the best album of his career.

Album Grade: A It began in tragedy. The Hurricanes that hit the Virgin Islands in September 2017 left behind an unparalleled swath of destruction that devastated lives and property. The effect on wildlife and the tropical ecosystem will be felt by the inhabitants for decades to come.

For his 17th Studio album, Kenny Chesney, who maintains a home on these islands, draws from the people and the community to construct a release that is reflective of the resilience of the population as well as the lure of the society formed there. Songs For The Saints, so named for the islands themselves (St. Thomas, St. Croix, St. John), is not just one of the most personal, emotional releases by the hard working country singer, but also among his best. While he may not have been on St. John’s at the time of the storms, his home was used as a source of refuge for several people who survived. In addition to organizing a charitable fund called “Love for Love City” all proceeds from the sale of Songs For The Saints will go to helping victims recover.

Leadoff single “Get Along” is both timely and reflective of the current partisan divide the Nation finds itself in. The song is astonishingly catchy, funny and eminently sing-able, a sure winner. The infectious fun of “Get Along” may be the only thing that everyone can truly agree on this year. Breezy and joyous, “Get Along” may be the opening invitation to the party, but it’s the rest of Songs For The Saints that will make you want to stay.

Chesney wisely partners again with songwriters Shane McAnally, Josh Osborne and Scooter Carusoe among others, to skillfully pen the compositions that make up the bulk of this album, relying on select covers to help provide additional colorful imagery and commentary.

Jimmy Buffett duets on his 1974 song “Trying to Reason with Hurricane Season” to tremendous effect. Where Chesney’s voice is strong and supple, Buffet’s vocals are world-weary, reflecting not just age, but the wisdom of someone who’s been

THE BOOKWORM SEZ By Terri Schlichenmeyer

What Truth Sounds Like

by Michael Eric Dyson

Whiskey When We’re Dry

by John Larison

though it all before. More than just a mentor/mentee relationship, this track serves somewhat of a “passing of the torch” from the elder Buffet to his only true heirapparent in both music and culture, from the Parrotheads to the No Shoes Nation.

While the Buffett duet is exceptional, it is Chesney’s version of “Ends of the Earth” in the exact center of the album’s track listing that is the most stunning.

Chesney adds dynamic power, darkness and weight to the original by Lord Huron to express the forceful nature of the hurricanes that inspired the project. If the first half of the album is meant to convey the lure of Island culture, the songs in the second act are introspective and filled with consequence and resolve. Strong percussion seamlessly coalesces in “Ends of the Earth” with smooth background harmonies to chilling effect and sets up the after-effect of the beautifully wistful “Gulf Moon” that follows.

Written by John Baumann, “Gulf Moon” is a masterpiece of introspection. Originally on his 2014 album, High Plains Alchemy, Chesney gives the Texas Singer/Songwriter a much-deserved shot of attention. Handled by Chesney, this song reveals a depth of emotion infrequently found in popular music. Stunning from start to finish, this song would make any album a winner just by its incorporation. Surrounded by the other songs collected, it makes Songs for the Saints a nearly perfect record.

While emotionally reflective, Songs for the Saints, is much more than a heart on his sleeve assemblage of material. Tracks like the reggae-tinged “Island Rain” and “We’re All Here” offer an indication of the laid-back lifestyle so attractive to members of the Island contingency. Lighthearted and joyous, these are much needed inclusions that give a rationale to the draw of the locale these songs inhabit.

The album closes with a gentle duet with Mindy Smith entitled “Better Boat.”

Summing up the record’s experience, this 2016 composition by Liz Rose and Travis Meadows is not just reflective of the losses of the hurricane, but empowering in an unswerving faith in community and a world beyond. A fitting, and appropriate conclusion to an album that is not just well constructed and heartfelt, but a true pleasure for anyone who hears it.

Bottom Line: A joyously reflective album that works to heal the effects of loss both literally and figuratively.

Daniel G. Moir has forgotten more about music than all the rest of us know combined. Reach him at editor@southernminnscene.com

Terri Schlichenmeyer is a book reviewer based just across the river from SoMinn in LaCrosse, WI. She can be contacted at bookwormsez@gmail.com

“We have to talk.”

It’s never good when someone tells you that. Even if it’s said with a smile and a pat on the back, you can feel doom in those words. “We have to talk” never helps anyone except when, as in “What Truth Sounds Like” by Michael Eric Dyson, it does.

In late May of 1963, Robert “Bobby” Kennedy, Attorney General for President John Kennedy, did something remarkable enough to make the front page of The New York Times: he had a “secret” meeting with a group of Black leaders to discuss “an ‘explosive situation’” that could impact the nation.

For many reasons, Civil Rights among them, 1963 was a “landmark.” Since taking the oath of office, Jack Kennedy had walked a fine line between politics and social justice. He and Bobby were “villains in the eyes of… white bigots” for their support for African Americans and Martin Luther King,

Jr., in particular, though Jack really only “tiptoed around the prospect of equal rights for Negroes.” Still, in Dyson’s telling, Bobby almost seemed smug in what he thought he knew about 1963’s simmering atmosphere when he met with James Baldwin, Harry Belafonte, Lena Horne, playwright Lorraine Hansberry, and activist Jerome Smith.

He wanted acknowledgment and gratitude for what was being done on behalf of Black Americans. Instead, the “Negroes” gave Kennedy a verbal trouncing.

Smith said Kennedy “’… don’t have no idea what trouble is…”

Hansberry threatened to give guns to people on the street (“poetic license,” Dyson muses). Baldwin fanned the flames, Smith dismissed the meeting as “cocktail-party patter,” and Kennedy fumed before Hansberry dropped a final bombshell and Kennedy’s guests stalked out.

In the days after this seminal meeting, Kennedy had chance to ruminate. He’d heard “unvarnished truths in ways white ears… were unaccustomed to.” It changed his life and altered his political career with a lesson that still resonates, especially for liberals and those who are trying this year to capture Congressional seats.

“It’s a lesson we must learn today,” says Dyson, “if we are to overcome our differences and embrace a future as bright as our dreams allow.”

“What Truth Sounds Like” is both the first book you should want this summer – and the last.

Absolutely no one would ever mistake this for a beach read; it’s too serious and thought-provoking for vacation frivolity and it’s absolutely not skimmable like a novel.

Conversely, considering what’s going on in the nation and in the world, this may be the most important book of the season. Author Michael Eric Dyson shows how a meeting held so long ago actually offers a sort of blueprint for anyone concerned about current issues of race. That includes “artists” and entertainers who seem to oppose what Baldwin would’ve advocated, and activists who need to know their history.

Give yourself plenty of time with this book. Pick it up, put it down, read anew, and it may help you to change minds.

For sure, “What Truth Sounds Like” holds ideas you’ll want to talk about.

It was right here a minute ago.

You saw it, but now it’s gone and you have to find it. Beneath a newspaper, atop a shelf, under a blanket, wherever it is, it was just right here – and as in the new book “Whiskey When We’re Dry” by John Larison, you’d search years to have it back.

Jessilyn Harney never knew her mother.

She died in childbirth, leaving Jessilyn’s father to raise Jessilyn and her brother, Noah, who was five years older. Noah took care of Jessilyn when their father drank too much syrup. He was a good brother, making sure she was warm, dressed, and protected – until the year she turned thirteen and, as young men are wont to do, Noah had a fight with his father and he rode away.

For a few years, Jessilyn did what she could to help her

father run things, but he’d gotten addled in that fight, and was never the same. Sensing the truth, perhaps, he schooled her on sharp-shooting for protection, and he talked of marrying her off. Six days after he left on a solitary ride, Jessilyn found his bones scattered. Not knowing what to do, she asked if the nearby Mormon family might take her in, and she was denied.

That was when Jessilyn went into the old wooden box that Noah left behind. She found some of his outgrown clothes – things that fit her fine – and she became Jesse.

Women on the frontier stuck out, he learned, but a babyfaced man was mostly ignored. Still, he was soft and that cost him; he was unwise to the world, and that cost more, though guns would ultimately protect Jesse and they’d generate money in wagers with fools who thought a lad wasn’t good with a Colt.

But Jesse didn’t want money; he only wanted one thing.

Noah had taken up with some outlaws, and there was a bounty on his head, dead or alive. Sharp-shooting was fun, but Jesse only wanted to find Noah before the law did…

Reading “Whiskey When We’re Dry” is like opening dozens of little gifts at Christmas: each time a surprise occurs, it’s a delight – the last, no less than the first. Author John Larison does that over and over again, gifting readers with a great opening, exceptional characters, and plenty to unwrap.

Set in the years following the Civil War, in an unnamed state, this book offers a lot to fans of many genres: for sure, this is an oater, complete with hosses and outlaws. With stunningly-described scenery, it’s a book for adventurers.

There’s a gauzily-told romance with another woman here, and small crushes on gun-slinging men. It’s un-PC, so beware! There’s heroism in this novel, but not where you might anticipate it.

Take this book on that last-minute vacation you’ve got.

Take it to bed, and don’t expect to sleep. Take “Whiskey When We’re Dry,” take, it, take it wherever you go. If you’re in need of a sweeping epic that offers plenty of mini-shocks throughout, it’s right here.

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What Truth Sounds Like by Michael Eric Dyson c.2018, St. Martin’s Press $23.99 / $32.50 in Canada 294 pages

Whiskey When We’re Dry by John Larison c.2018, St. Martin’s Press $28.00 / $35.00 in Canada 400 pages

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THE BOOKWORM SEZ By Terri Schlichenmeyer

The Camper Book:

A Celebration of a Moveable American Dream

by Dave Hoekstra, foreword by Jeff Daniels, photographs by Jon Sall

Gigged:

The End of the Job and The Future of Work

by Sarah Kessler

Gods and Heroes

by Korwin Briggs

What Can a Citizen Do?

by Dave Eggers, illustrated

by Shawn Harris

If You’re Going to a March

by Martha Freeman, illustrated by Violet Kim

We Rise, We Resist, We Raise Our Voices edited by Wade Hudson & Cheryl Willis Hudson, foreword by Ashley Bryan

38

Terri Schlichenmeyer is a book reviewer based just across the river from SoMinn in LaCrosse, WI. She can be contacted at bookwormsez@gmail.com

All summer long, you tried to get away.

But the timing was wrong. Work needed you, extended family needed you, friends needed you.

Weekends were filled with obligations, while weekdays were filled with dreams and now the summer’s almost over. But in “The Camper Book” by Dave Hoekstra, you’ll see that getting away can happen any time.

Nine years ago, a certain kind of bug – a VW Beetle – bit Dave Hoekstra.

He was visiting his friend, Bob Waldmire, who’d been a nomad in a converted van, a Route 66 devotee, and was dying of cancer. The loss of a guy like Bob – and loss of both his elderly parents – made Hoekstra begin to think hard about “place” – specifically, “Is a place stored in your memory, or is it something in the moment?”

In early 2016, he decided to find out. He bought a cargo van, had it converted into a home on wheels, and on June 5, 2016, he set out to meet his fellow wanderers. First stop: Carthage, Missouri, and a campground that was lovingly built by two people who live in (guess where?) a camper.

In Idaho, Hoekstra met two families that travel separately but that always get together when they find themselves in the same area. In Madison, Wisconsin, he met a traveler who “inherited” a childhood treasure; in Arkansas, he visited a gay-friendly camper resort; in Minnesota, he met a man who lives in a camper, year-‘round. He spoke with the president of the National African-American RVers Association. He found families who travel all year and home-school their kids. He attended a Thanksgiving potluck in one campground, a Valentine’s Day feast in another spot, and celebrated a State Fair with thousands of other travelers.

In short, Hoekstra found community. Living in a camper was fun, and so was visiting places he’d always wanted to see and meeting people he never would’ve otherwise met.

RVing, he learned, allows you to see America in a unique way. And if you don’t like where you are, you can just take your home to the next place…

For months, you’ve been thinking about chucking it all and hitting the road, but job obligations are a real thing. You’ll be happy to know, then, that some jobs are made for travel; “The Camper Book” tells you more.

Don’t come here for a how-to, though; there are things to learn in this book but, judging solely by what you’ll read, if you like people, you’ve already got half the skills needed to be a happy RVer. Indeed, author Dave Hoekstra tells a homey tale of fun, fellowship, and friends you haven’t met yet, and that’s wonderfully mixed with nostalgia.

He also peeks into the future: will Millennials someday embrace camper-living, or is this the end of the road?

There are hints to answer that question, lots of pictures, and a feeling of comfort inside this book that should make it appealing to travelers and homebodies alike. Even if it’s on paper, “The Camper Book” is a nice getaway.

Your allowance was never enough, as a kid.

Oh, sure, it bought you what you needed but what you wanted, well, you had to figure that out yourself. A dime here, a dollar there, little chores-for-pay, tasks for Grandma and you made it work.

And as you’ll see in the new book, “Gigged” by Sarah Kessler, some things never change.

Back in 2011, when she was a reporter for a tech blog, Sarah Kessler became aware of a new startup that utilized non-traditional workers in non-traditional ways. It was called Uber, and its business concept seemed unusual; having grown up in rural Wisconsin, Kessler had no frame of reference, and she paid it little heed.

Eventually, though, she began to see that the model Uber was using – modified in so many ways – was being used for a lot of start-ups and could, potentially, benefit a lot of people.

Was this gig economy really the way of the future?

It had been around awhile: in the early 1970s, Kelly Girls were available for temp work; becoming a Kelly Girl was advertised as a way to pay for life’s extras. But, no surprise, research showed then – as it does now – that temp working and gig economy jobs are taken more as a way to make ends meet.

Intrigued, Kessler began following a few people who paid the bills with a string of non-traditional jobs they took for a variety of reasons: not fitting into a 9-to-5, not enough education, desiring entrepreneurship, not enough local opportunities. The people that Kessler profiled were young and tech-savvy (or learning) but not so mobile. Their backgrounds varied, as did their races; in other words, they fit in with the average gig worker, the numbers of which “grew 47-fold between 2012 and 2015.”

While gig-working did, indeed, pay the bills for Kessler’s subjects, she also learned that it was not all good. Yes, there was “independence, flexibility, and freedom” but at what price? For workers, it offered often-low pay, few-to-no benefits, and no safety net. For employers, it saved money, but the hassles were daunting and “churn” could churn one’s stomach...

So is this “what the future might look like,” as author Sarah Kessler says? In “Gigged,” she offers some tantalizing clues and more than one caveat.

For anyone who’s stuffed envelopes for pennies, or wondered if there’s real cash to be made gigging, this book sets it straight: Kessler’s subjects made money but it was hard, hard work and none of them are still gig-economy workers. Recommendations are sparse. That says a lot.

For business owners, it’s more complicated: temp workers and small tasks seem to go hand-in-hand, but Kessler outlines many laws and rules that might make your head rotate like a spin mop. And, as it appears, further legislation is coming…

Readers would be correct in assuming that we haven’t heard the final word on this subject. Change occurs frequently.

In the meantime, “Gigged” is interesting, informative, and timely - and until the dust has settled, that’ll have to be enough.

Your favorite superhero was ten feet tall.

Larger than life. Super-sized, right there on the movie screen and that’s just how you like it.

There’s nothing better than watching the adventures of take-charge super-powered beings in a film – except, as in “Gods and Heroes” by Korwin Briggs, when there’s a whole entire book about them.

Ever since humans walked the earth, they’ve told fables of battles and bravery. They’ve explained birth and death with stories, and they used tales to interpret things they didn’t quite understand. The problem, says Korwin Briggs, is that writing didn’t exist in ancient times, so most legends were passed down orally. That means that, in their original form, many are forever lost.

Of course, many still exist, and this book is full of those tales from around the world.

Take, for example, the story of Anansi the Spider, which

appears to have come from Ghana and spread around the world. Anansi “is lazy, dishonest, and very full of himself,” but his tales usually have him coming out a winner in the end, having tricked other creatures and gods.

Another trickster comes from the American Southwest: Coyote, who fools people and giants. In mythology, monsters and kings can be tricksters, too.

Many mythical figures came from the Greeks and Romans, including Artemis, the twin sister of Apollo. Because her mother labored so long to give birth to Apollo, Artemis vowed to help girls and women; she’s seen as a nurturer, but she’s also a shy, reclusive huntress who avoids men and crowds. Oh, and she loves dogs.

You may also be familiar with the Greek and Roman hero named Heracles. He’s very strong, smart, and brave. And he’s also called Hercules.

Isis was a goddess long before her name was in the news; and in Africa, it’s Kintu’s wife’s fault that people die. The Norse god Loki “is a jerk.” The Polynesian god Maui made the day longer, Poseidon was father to a number of nonhuman creatures, Pele is a volcano, and as for Gaia, “We live on her.”

No matter what weekend it is or where your family will be, your teen can’t get enough of the adventures of his favorite superhero. So why not give him a few new (old) ones to follow? Give him “Gods and Heroes.”

Gone are the pages of stuffiness in the study of mythology. Gone are the high-brow tales low on excitement.

Instead, after warning readers of occasional violence and possible cruelty, author Korwin Briggs gives world-wide myths and legends a teen-friendly, modern relevance, both in narrative and illustration. These are tales that make TV drama seem tame: teens will read about battle, blood, and vengeance, but they’ll also read about sunshine and kindness. Briggs then draws parallels from ancient mythology to modern legends and even to the Bible.

While a reading-proficient 8-year-old could probably tackle this book, its better audience is probably a little older.

If they can handle the grown-up themes in “Gods and Heroes,” then this book could be big.

Someone you know went to a march this summer.

It was a pretty big deal, but it sounded like fun: it was a time for people to gather and take advantage of their rights. That’s something you’d like to do, too, someday, and with these three books, you’ll see how you can start getting involved.

First of all, never say you’re “just” a kid. Kids can make a difference, as you’ll see in “What Can a Citizen Do?” by Dave Eggers, illustrated by Shawn Harris.

No matter who you are or what you look like, there are lots of things you can do for change: you can plant a tree, help a neighbor, or write letters. You can save a bear, be a bear, or make life better for bears. And yes, you can even march.

If that’s the plan, there are things you’ll need and “If You’re Going to a March” by Martha Freeman, illustrated by Violet Kim has ideas. You’ll want a sign, for instance, and this book tells you how to make one. You’ll

learn what to wear, what to carry in a backpack, and how to stay safe on the march. It also reminds young readers to be polite because “democracy looks like disagreement, too.”

And finally, if you’ve been putting a lot of thought into how you feel, “We Rise, We Resist, We Raise Our Voices,” edited by Wade Hudson & Cheryl Willis Hudson, will help you think deeper about what you can do through essays, poems, stories, art, and memories. This book offers different ways of looking at dissent and how to know what’s right for you. It also helps readers to feel a connection with history, and protestors from generations past.

This fall, you and your child are going to see a pretty big election occur. You’re also going to see a lot of books about citizenship, getting involved, and First Amendment rights.

These are three that are worth a look.

Five-to-seven-year-olds who don’t have access to a city-wide march will appreciate what’s inside “What Can a Citizen Do?” This book offers plenty of ideas for action that don’t necessarily involve organizations – things like helping neighbors or keeping the environment clean. Children who crave simplicity will like this book.

“If You’re Going to a March” is for roughly the same age group, but it lists tips and hints for more hands-on kids who

really want to get into the thick of things.

For older children – ages roughly 8 to 14 – “We Rise, We Resist, We Raise Our Voices” offers more of a chance for introspection on activism. It also doubles as a bit of history and strength for kids whose values may clash with friends, family, or classmates.

Your child knows what’s going on in the world. If she wants to participate, these books can help both of you to get started. “If You’re Going to a March,” “We Rise, We Resist, We Raise Our Voices,” and “What Can a Citizen Do?” are books to march out and get.

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The Camper Book: A Celebration of a Moveable American Dream by Dave Hoekstra, foreword by Jeff Daniels, photographs by Jon Sall c.2018, Chicago Review Press $24.99 / $33.99 in Canada 186 pages

Gigged: The End of the Job and The Future of Work

by Sarah Kessler c.2018, St. Martin’s Press $25.99 / $33.99 in Canada 289 pages

Gods and Heroes by Korwin Briggs c.2018, Workman $19.95 / $29.65 in Canada 289 pages

What Can a Citizen Do? by Dave Eggers, illustrated by Shawn Harris c.2018, Chronicle Kids $17.99 / $24.99 in Canada 40 pages If You’re Going to a March, Martha Freeman, illustrated by Violet Kim c.2018, Sterling Children’s Books $16.95 / $22.95 in Canada 32 pages We Rise, We Resist, We Raise Our Voices, edited by Wade Hudson & Cheryl Willis Hudson, foreword by Ashley Bryan c.2018, Crown Books for Young Readers $18.99 / $24.99 in Canada 88 pages

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2018

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New for 2018 Battle Axe Pub Bow Blast Cock-A-Doodle-Zoo Magic the Live Unicorn Ye Old Bingo

Full Contact Live Jousting • 16 Stages of Exciting Entertainment 50 FREE Family Friendly Activities • 250 Artisans for Endless Shopping Enjoy Craft Beer & Feast Like A King

Mermaids, Fairies, Vikings & much more!

Open Saturdays and Sundays August 18th-September 30th • Plus Labor Day and Festival Friday, Sept. 28th Rain or Shine 9am-7pm • RenaissanceFest.com 952-445-7361 • FREE PARKING A d d y o u r e v e n t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E c a l e n d a r . G O TO w w w. s o u t h ernminn . c o m / s c ene / c a len d a r & C l i c k + A d d a n E v ent

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