Omaha Magazine - July/August 2022 - Hotel Edition

MUSICIAN DERECK HIGGINS • OSCAR WINNER DON HALL • MONSTER CLUB OMAHA • REVIEWING CUMBIA BISTRO

J U L Y / A U G U S T 2 0 22

Hotel Edition

c u M b i A b i St ro A G R E AT P L A C E F O R PA R C H E

PHOTO BY DANA DAMEWOOD

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FROM THE EDITOR // LETTER BY DAISY HUTZELL-RODMAN

ANIMATION DIRECTORS, BROADWAY STARS, AND CARTOONS A rt s & C u lt u r e A b o u n d

T

he big deal in Glenwood, Iowa, (where my husband and I live) is their annual homecoming festival and parade.

Each year the parade has a theme, and in 2015, the parade theme was Heroes. The reason for this was that earlier in the year, director Don Hall (originally from Glenwood) won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature Film of the Year for the movie Big Hero 6. Hall has gone on to produce even bigger works, including the pandemic-era hit Raya and the Last Dragon, which is why he is one of our A+C articles this round.

Many of the articles in this edition are devoted to arts and culture. The main feature is about Omaha native, and now Broadway and TV star, Andrew Rannells, known for originating the role of Elder Price in The Book of Mormon as well as performing in the popular Hamilton.

The other feature is about a man I have worked with, and considered a friend, for many years. Jeff Koterba was a former colleague of mine who has forged his own path since being let go from the Omaha World-Herald. He’s drawn (and sometimes met) everyone from astronauts to politicians, and he’s one of the nicest guys I know.

KVNO is the morning home of our back-page columnist Otis Twelve (or Jeff Koterba when Otis is out) and the all-classical station is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. We talked to several people who worked at the station to discover what makes this classical station unique.

The city said goodbye to beloved music director for the Omaha Symphony Thomas Wilkins in 2020, and the new maestro, Ankush Kumar Bahl, has now been here for a full season with the beloved orchestra. Why he came to the city, and what he brought with him, is the subject of our profile story this round.

We also have a few special sections for you to peruse this round.

Those needing a lawyer can find a selection of good ones in our Lawyers section, while a few arts and entertainment places are featured in the arts special section.

The special section I hope you take time to read thoroughly is the Campaign section. It’s that time of year again. Omaha Magazine’s Best of Omaha contest starts July 1 and ends on Aug. 19. There’s lots of fun categories that have been added this year—Cookies and Night Club are two of my favorites, while perennial favorites such as Best Mexican Food and Cigar Bar are still ones the public can vote on. It doesn’t take much time, and each year as my husband and I vote, we find ourselves filling in more than the requisite five selections, as looking through the list brings up discussion of the many great places we visit to eat, play, and repair our home or cars.

There’s a lot of great articles, and information, in this edition. I hope you enjoy it. *Note: The hotel edition of Omaha Magazine has a different cover and does not include all of the editorial content included in the magazine’s full city edition. For more information on our city edition, visit OmahaMagazine.com.

JULY/AUGUST

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2022

TAB L E of CON T E N T S THE USUAL SUSPECTS 003 From the Editor

Animation Directors, Broadway Stars, and Cartoons

006 Between the Lines 008 Calendar of Events 081 Obviously Omaha Open Mics

098 Explore!

103 Instagram 104 Not Funny

Ars Gratia Artis

ARTS + CULTURE 014 Music

088

Dereck Higgins

QR

018 Theater

Tyrone Beasley

022 Film

Don Hall

DINING 082 Feature

Monster Club

086 Profile

Corina Figueroa

088 Review

Cumbia Bistro

092 Dining Guide

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014 018

JULY/AUGUST 2022

* Note: The hotel edition of Omaha Magazine has a different cover and does not include all of the editorial content included in the magazine’s full city edition. For more information on our city edition, visit OmahaMagazine.com.

read current and previous issues online at omahamagazine.com

DISCOVER VIDEOS AND ONLINE EXTRAS

for select content in this issue.

Use your smart device to go deeper into select stories from this issue of Omaha Magazine for FREE.

Step LOCATE A QR CODE PRINTED IN THIS ISSUE. Make sure you have internet access.

Step OPEN THE CAMERA APP IN YOUR SMART DEVICE. Newer smartphones/tablets come with capability to scan QR codes.

Step POINT AT THE QR CODE. A link will appear. Click on it.

Step ENJOY YOUR EXPERIENCE. Watch, click, shop, explore!

*Note: the hotel edition of Omaha Magazine has a different cover, and it does not include all of the editorial content featured in the magazine’s full city edition. Subscribe to the full magazine at omahamagazine.com/subscribe.

Between

THE LINES A LOOK AT TH R E E OMAHA MAGAZINE TEAM MEMBERS

RENEÉ LUDWICK—Art Intern Ludwick is a senior and a graphic design major at Concordia University of Nebraska. Ludwick is artistically inclined in many aspects. Her favorite form of art, to pass time, is needle felting, making amazing sculptures with only wool and a needle. In her free time she trains her dog, Ariel; reads comics; watches anime; and plays video games. In the future she hopes to work in animation.

JULY/AUGUST 2022 VOLUME 40 // ISSUE 4

EDITORIAL Managing Editor

DAISY HUTZELL-RODMAN Associate Editor

LINDA PERSIGEHL Editorial/Digital Assistant

JULIUS FREDRICK Editorial Intern

SOPHIE ROSSITTO Contributing Writers

JOHN ASHFORD · LEO ADAM BIGA · CHRIS BOWLING TAMSEN BUTLER · KAREN CAMPBELL · DWAIN HEBDA TERRY JENSEN · JEFF LACEY · SARA LOCKE · JONATHAN OROZCO SEAN ROBINSON · JOEL STEVENS · JARRETT VAN METER DOUGLAS “OTIS TWELVE” WESSELMANN · DAVID ZORKO

CREATIVE Creative Director

MATT WIECZOREK Senior Graphic Designer

DEREK JOY

Graphic Designer II

MADY BESCH Art Intern

RENEÉ LUDWICK Contributing Photographers

JUSTIN BARNES · KEITH BINDER · COLIN CONCES SCOTT DRICKEY · JOSHUA FOO · WILLIAM HESS · SARAH LEMKE

SALES DEPARTMENT

SOPHIE ROSSITTO—Editorial Intern Rossitto grew up in a small town in northern Arkansas and recently finished her junior year at Harding University, where she is majoring in journalism and minoring in music. She has many family connections in Omaha and has always enjoyed visiting this area during the summer. During her journalism studies, Rossitto has written articles for her local and university newspapers, and has loved learning more about interesting people in the community. After graduating, she hopes to become an editor for a newspaper or magazine. In her free time, Rossitto enjoys playing piano, baking cookies, and spending time with family.

Executive Vice President Sales & Marketing

GIL COHEN

Branding Specialists

DAWN DENNIS · GEORGE IDELMAN Contributing Branding Specialists

GREG BRUNS · JILLIAN DUNN · MARY HIATT · TIM McCORMACK Publisher’s Assistant & OmahaHome Contributing Editor

SANDY MATSON

Senior Sales Coordinator

ALICIA HOLLINS Sales Coordinator

SANDI McCORMACK Appointment Setter

TAYLOR JANZEN · KERI BROCK

OPERATIONS Accounting/Operations Manager

SCOTT STEWART—Freelance Writer Stewart enjoys playing board games, watching UNO hockey, and boring his friends by waxing philosophical—even if some of them secretly enjoy trolley problem memes, too. He lives in the Quail Creek area with his wife and their energetic dog. While Stewart has successfully infiltrated society, he can’t comprehend how dysfunctional it is for so many. His role in the economy is as a journalist, hoping an informed populace is more predisposed toward compassion. Stewart believes knowledge must be shared; if knowledge itself is not power, its absence inhibits power. So, he’ll keep on telling stories, intending that they inspire others.

KYLE FISHER

Ad Traffic Manager

DAVID TROUBA Digital Manager

MEGAN BARTHOLOMEW Distribution Manager

DAMIAN INGERSOLL

EXECUTIVE Executive Publisher

TODD LEMKE

Associate Publisher

BILL SITZMANN For Advertising & Subscription Information:

402.884.2000

Omaha Magazine Vol 40 Issue IV, publishes monthly except February, April, August, December, totaling 8 issues by Omaha Magazine, LTD, 5921 S. 118 Circle, Omaha, NE 68137. Periodical postage at Omaha, NE, and additional offices and additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Omaha Magazine, 5921 S. 118 Circle, Omaha, NE 68137

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JULY/AUGUST 2022

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EVENTS

» Exhibits « LYDIA CHESHEWALLA: BODY SPEAKING TO BODY

Through July 16 at The Union for Contemporary Art, 2423 N. 24th St. Cheshewalla is a transdisci-

plinary artist from Oklahoma, living and working in motion throughout the ecological landscape. As an Osage woman, her work primarily focuses on community, emotional awareness, environmental justice, ephemerality, kinship, and art as healing action. 1-8 p.m. Wednesdays-Thursdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays. 402.933.3161 –u-ca.org

PARADISE ON EARTH: THE ART OF MARCEL MOULY

Through Aug. 20 at El Museo Latino, 4701 S. 25th St. Mouly’s paintings depict colorful open

fields, landscapes of countrysides, and exotic locations he visited during his many travels. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesdays-Fridays, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays. Advanced timed tickets required: $5 general, $4 college students with ID, $3.50 students (K-12) and seniors (55+), free to members and children under 5. 402.731.1137 –elmuseolatino.org

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JULY/AUGUST 2022

DINOSAUR REVOLUTION

Through Sept. 4 at Durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St. This exhibit combines learning and play

to challenge visitors’ knowledge about dinosaurs, display cutting-edge discoveries, and debunk popular myths. Admission: $13 adults, $10 seniors (62+) and military/veteran, $7 children (3-12), free for members and children 2 and under. Noon-4 p.m. Sundays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays, closed Mondays. 402.444.5071.

–durhammuseum.org

NAMASTE INDIA

Through Sept. 4 at Omaha Children’s Museum, 500 S. 20th St. From Bollywood to the Taj Mahal,

from playing cricket to practicing yoga, visitors will experience the wonders of India in the cultural exhibit Namaste India. Admission: Free to members and children under 24 months, $14 children 2-15 and adults, $13 seniors (60+). 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Tuesdays through Fridays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. 402.342.6164.

–ocm.org

MAYA DUNIETZ: ROOT OF TWO

Through Sept. 18 at Bemis Center, 724 S. 12th St. Th is solo exhibition by Maya Dunietz

engages the physicality of sound through a series of installations encompassing the entirety of Bemis Center’s 13,000-square-foot gallery space. Admission: free. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesdays-Sundays.

402.341.7130.

–bemiscenter.org

CARNE Y ARENA (VIRTUALLY PRESENT, PHYSICALLY INVISIBLE)

Through Sept. 10 at K ANEKO, 1111 Jones St.

Alejandro G. Iñárritu’s Academy Award-winning virtual reality experience explores the human condition of immigrants and refugees. The 20-minute solo experience is based on true accounts. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

Sunday. Admission: $40. 402.341.3800.

–thekaneko.org

BEYOND VAN GOGH

Through Aug. 14 at Mid-America Center, 1 Arena Way. Th is limited-run exhibit has more

than 300 of the greatest works by Vincent Van Gogh. 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

Tickets: $29 children 5-15, $45 military, $50 general, $84 VIP. 712.323.0536.

–vangoghomaha.com

» Stage Performances « TRACY MORGAN

July 8 and 9 at Funny Bone, 17305 Davenport St. Starring for seven seasons on NBC’s “30 Rock,”

Morgan appeared opposite Tina Fey and Alec Baldwin. He can currently be seen in the second season of the TBS show “The Last OG.” 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. Friday, 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Saturday.

Tickets: $40-$50. 402.493.8036.

–omaha.funnybone.com

CHRISTOPHER TITUS

July 15 and 16 at Funny Bone, 17305 Davenport St. Titus has six one-hour comedy specials

running on Comedy Central, and his seventh special, "Born With a Defect," spent four weeks on the Billboard Top Ten Comedy Chart. 7:30 p.m.

Friday, 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Saturday. Tickets: $25-$35. 402.493.8036.

–omaha.funnybone.com

FELIPE ESPARZA

July 16 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St.

Esparza is a comedian and actor known for his stand-up specials, “They’re Not Gonna Laugh at You,” and his dual-release on Netflix, “Bad Decisions/Malas Decisiones.” 7 and 9:15 p.m. Tickets: $32.50 advanced/$35 day of show. 402.884.5353.

–waitingroomlounge.com

DEON COLE

July 22 and 23 at Funny Bone, 17305 Davenport St. Cole is a comedian, writer, and actor, who

can be seen as Charlie on ABC’s “Black-ish” and Freeform’s “Grown-ish.” 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m.

Friday; 4:30 p.m., 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Saturday.

Tickets: $39-$49. 402.493.8036.

–omaha.funnybone.com

Five venues, five unique celebration experiences. Hosting events for 100 - 1,000 guests, Omaha Event Group boasts 15 years of experience with over 300 events each year, including Omaha Fashion Week. Schedule a consultation with our team of experts today. hello@omahaeventgroup.com | 402.819.8792 | omahaeventgroup.com Omaha Design Center | The Downtown Club | Empire Room | Omaha Palazzo | Anderson O'Brien Fine Art Gallery

JULY/AUGUST 2022

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OMAHA MAGAZINE | EVENTS CALENDAR

DAVE LANDAU

TESLA WITH WARRANT

demeanor and dark style of comedy landed him on Comedy Central’s “This is Not Happening” and AXS.TV’s “Live at Gotham” five times. 7:30 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. Friday, 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.

Saturday. Tickets: $30. 402.493.8036.

–omaha.funnybone.com

their most iconic albums, “Five Man Acoustical Jam,” over 30 years ago, and they are still bringing their 1990s rock 'n' roll to performances today. 8 p.m. Tickets: $42.50-$113. 712.329.6000.

–caesars.com/harrahs-council-bluffs/shows

July 29 and 30 at Funny Bone, 17305 Davenport St. As a top rising comic, Landau's laid-back

THE LEGEND OF GEORGIA MCBRIDE

Aug. 19-Sept. 18 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. Th is comedy follows an

unemployed Elvis impersonator who fi nds a hidden talent after a drag queen convinces him to fill in for one of her shows on stage. Times vary.

Tickets: TBD. 402.553.0800.

–omahaplayhouse.com

Aug. 25 at CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 N. 10th St. Hart is an Emmy-and-Grammy-nom-

inated comedian and actor who has opened 10 Hollywood films at No. 1 at the box office. 7 p.m.

Tickets: $56-$396. 402-341-1500.

–chihealthcenteromaha.com

THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL

Aug. 26-Sept. 18 at The Rose Theater, 2001 Farnam St. Audiences can join SpongeBob,

Patrick, Sandy, and the rest of the Krusty Krew through this adventure centered around friendship, overcoming differences, and the end of the world. Times vary. Tickets: $25 for non-members, free for members (4 tickets each). 402.345.4849.

–omahaplayhouse.com

» Concerts « SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

What would summer be without music? Omaha has plenty of places for family-friendly musical entertainment to keep people dancing in the street, and the heat.

• Saturdays @ Stinson Park, 67th and Center Streets, 7 p.m., through Aug. 27.

–askarbenvillage.com • Jazz on the Green, Turner Park, 3110 Farnam St., July 7 through Aug. 11.

—o-pa.org/jazz-on-the-green • Outdoor Concert and Movie Series, Central Park Lakes, 8305 Park View Blvd. in La Vista, 7 p.m. Ground Zero (July 8) and Kaylyn Sahs (July 29).

–cityoflavista.org • Music and Memories at Shadow Lake Towne Center, 7775 Olson Dr., 6:30 p.m., through Aug. 12.

–shadowlaketownecenter.com • Vibes Summer Concert Series at Village Pointe, 17305 Davenport St., 6:30 p.m., Thursdays through Aug. 25.

JULY/AUGUST 2022

AS I LAY DYING WITH WHITECHAPEL, SHADOW OF INTENT, AND BRAND OF SACRIFICE

July 7 at The Admiral, 2234 S. 13th St. Th is

five-member metal band from San Diego has sold over 1 million albums. 7 p.m. Tickets: $35 general audience/$55 premiere balcony.

–admiralomaha.com

TAYLOR FEST

SAM HUNT

This event celebrates the music of Taylor Swift, featuring the singer’s early hits, her current music, and more. This is an 18+ show. 9 p.m. Tickets: $20. 402.884.5353.

–waitingroomlounge.com

country, hip-hop, and R&B in his music, and his debut album “Montevallo” went triple platinum.

8 p.m. Tickets: $84-$228. 712.329.6000.

–caesars.com/harrahs-council-bluffs/shows

July 1 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St.

RED CLAY STRAYS

July 2 and 3 at Barnato, 225 N. 170th St. Th is

KEVIN HART

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July 1 at Stir Concert Cove, 1 Harrah’s Blvd., Council Bluffs. Rock band Tesla released one of

Alabama-based band released their debut single, “Good Godly Woman,” in 2019. 8 p.m. Tickets: $25-$100.

–barnato.bar

BRIGHT EYES WITH HOORAY FOR THE RIFF RAFF

July 2 and 3 at The Admiral, 2234 S. 13th St.

Omaha’s own Connor Oberst comes home with his three-member band, which has explored a variety of genres ranging from folk-rock to electronic music. 8 p.m. Tickets: $39.50 advanced/$45 day of show/$75 premiere balcony.

–admiralomaha.com

ARLIE

July 5 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Th is

band began as a solo bedroom project in 2015 and grew to a full ensemble. 8 p.m. Tickets: $15 advanced/$18 day of show. 402.345.7569.

–theslowdown.com

PUSCIFER WITH MOODIE BLACK

July 5 at The Admiral, 2234 S. 13th St. This rock

band will provide multi-dimensional experiences inspired by the Magical Verde Valley in Arizona.

8 p.m. Tickets: $59.50 general audience/$99 premiere balcony/$60 day of show.

–admiralomaha.com

THE ACACIA STRAIN WITH MALEVOLENCE

July 6 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. This

metalcore band, which formed in Massachusetts, is known for their heavy rhythm section, apocalyptic sounds, and triple-guitars. 7 p.m. Tickets: $18 advanced/$20 day of show. 402.884.5353.

–waitingroomlounge.com

July 7 at Stir Concert Cove, 1 Harrah’s Blvd., Council Bluffs. Hunt has combined genres such as

AUBREY LOGAN

July 8 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Fusing Calypso rhythms with jazz,

funk, and love songs, vocalist and trombonist Aubrey Logan’s powerhouse performances set her apart as one of the most brilliant contemporary jazz artists. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $15. 402.346.7372.

–ticketomaha.com

CHRIS JANSON WITH ASHLAND CRAFT AND ROMAN ALEXANDER

July 9 and 10 at Barnato, 225 N. 170th St.

Janson is a singer-songwriter, platinum-selling recording artist, and multi-instrumentalist who has topped the country music charts. 7 p.m. Tickets: $37.50-$115.

–barnato.bar

TINY MOVING PARTS WITH THIS WILD LIFE AND IN HER OWN WORDS

July 9 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St.

This Minnesota-based trio addresses topics such as anxiety and mental health while incorporating a signature emo, rock, and pop-punk style.

8 p.m. Tickets: $22 advanced/$25 day of show.

402.884.5353.

–waitingroomlounge.com

THE IMPULSIVE

July 9 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. This hard

rock band has garnered more than 1 million streams and views across multiple platforms for songs such as “Fade” and “Bury Me.” 8 p.m. Tickets: $8. 402.345.7569.

–theslowdown.com

FAST TIMES

July 9 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Th is '80s concert special will fea-

ture the songs of Van Halen, Billy Idol, Motley Crue, The Cure, and more. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $15. 402.346.7372.

–ticketomaha.com

AUGUST 8–14, 2022 | THE CLUB AT INDIAN CREEK | The biggest tournament of the Korn Ferry Tour regular season returns to Omaha as the top players battle to secure their PGA TOUR cards for the 2022–2023 season.

Don’t miss it!

Learn more at thepinnaclebankchampionship.com/tickets

OMAHA MAGAZINE | EVENTS CALENDAR

SHAWN MENDES WITH DERMOT KENNEDY

CASEY DONAHEW

singer/songwriter Shawn Mendes is known for songs such as "Senorita" and "There's Nothing Holding Me Back." 7 p.m. Tickets: $16-$1,095.

402.341.1500.

–chihealthcenteromaha.com

Love Song,” was the most-played independent song on country radio in 2019. 7 p.m. Tickets: $30 advanced/$35 day of show. 402.884.5353.

–waitingroomlounge.com

July 10 at CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 N. 10th St. Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum

COLLECTIVE SOUL AND SWITCHFOOT

JOSH A

July 11 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Producer,

rapper, and singer Josh A started in the Florida music scene and has addressed topics such as isolation, depression, and heartbreak in his music.

8 p.m. Tickets: $25 advanced/$30 day of show.

402.345.7569.

–theslowdown.com

AJJ WITH OPEN MIKE EAGLE

July 12 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St.

Th is band from Arizona combines a folk-punk sound with commentary about social issues. 8 p.m. Tickets: $22 advanced/$25 day of show.

402.884.5353.

–waitingroomlounge.com

FRANK TURNER & THE SLEEPING SOULS

July 13 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. A former

member of punk rock band “Million Dead,” Frank Turner has turned his attention to folkier, acoustic music. 7 p.m. Tickets: $29.50. 402.345.7569.

–theslowdown.com

RHYTHMS COLLECTIVE WITH LINOMA MASHERS

July 14 at Turner Park at Midtown Crosing, 3110 Farnam St. This award-winning band per-

forms original tunes as well as standard island tunes and American classic rock in reggae and ska styles. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: free. 402.346.7372.

–ticketomaha.com

BIG GIGANTIC

July 15 at Waiting Room Outdoors, 6212 Maple St. This duo combines live instruments and elec-

tronic dance music. They cross multiple genres, such as jazz, dubstep, and hip hop. 6:30 p.m.

Tickets: $35. 402.884.5353.

–waitingroomlounge.com

NATE SMITH

July 15 and 16 at Barnato, 225 N. 170th St.

Country artist Nate Smith incorporates rock ’n’ roll, powerful vocals, and backwoods soul into his music. 8 p.m. Tickets: $17.50-$300.

–barnato.bar

PLAYING WITH FIRE FESTIVAL WEEKEND I

July 15 and 16 at Turner Park, 3110 Farnam St. PwF is dedicated to supporting local, non-

profit organizations and building bonds between people–locally, nationally, and internationally– with free, live music concerts presented by brilliant worldwide musicians.

–playingwithfireomaha.net

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July 16 at Waiting Room Outdoors, 6212 Maple St. Donahew’s latest No. 1 single, “Let’s Make a

JULY/AUGUST 2022

July 16 at Stir Concert Cove, 1 Harrah’s Blvd., Council Bluffs. Rock band Collective Soul has

performed for fans across the world, and alternative band Switchfoot has sold nearly 10 million copies of their studio albums worldwide. 8 p.m.

Tickets: $39.50-$229. 712.329.6000.

–caesars.com/harrahs-council-bluffs/shows

COLA

July 18 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. The

three-member band Cola combines driving guitar parts, unexpected drum patterns and thoughtful songwriting into their music. 8 p.m. Tickets: $12.

402.345.7569.

–theslowdown.com

DRIVE-BY TRUCKERS WITH LYDIA LOVELESS

July 19 at Falconwood Park, 905 Allied Road, Bellevue. Drive-By Truckers recorded its 12th

studio album, “The Unraveling,” with a Grammy award-winning engineer in Memphis. 8 p.m. Tickets: $35 advanced/$40 day of show.

–falconwoodpark.com

MO LOWDA & THE HUMBLE

July 20 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. Th is indie rock band from Philadelphia

has brought their versatile, energetic sound to live shows in clubs and theaters throughout the U.S. 8 p.m. Tickets: $25 early bird (2) packs/$15 advanced/$18 day of show. 402.884.5707.

–reverblounge.com

THE RED JUMPSUIT APPARATUS/ ATTACK ATTACK!

July 21 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St.

The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus has sold over 1 million albums and has topped the Billboard charts seven times since 2010. Ohio-based band Attack Attack! has crafted a unique sound featuring screamo, electronic, and metalcore influences.

6 p.m. Tickets: $22 advanced/$25 day of show.

402.884.5353.

–waitingroomlounge.com

CHASING CHANCE

July 22 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Chasing Chance is a local band that brings loud drums, chanting vocals, and heavy bass music to their performances. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $10. 402.345.7569.

–theslowdown.com

POISON

July 22 at Stir Concert Cove, 1 Harrah’s Blvd., Council Bluffs. Rock band Poison started in the

club scenes of Pennsylvania and Los Angeles before finding success with hits such as “Every Rose has its Thorn” and “Unskinny Bop.” 8 p.m. Tickets: $85-$603. 712.329.6000.

–ticketmaster.com

CHRIS ISAAK AND LYLE LOVETT

July 22 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Chris Isaak has released nine

albums and has been nominated for two Grammy awards. Singer, composer, and actor Lyle Lovett has fused elements of country, swing, jazz, folk, gospel and blues into his music in a convention-defying manner. 8 p.m. Tickets: $63.50-$179.50.

402.346.7372.

–ticketomaha.com

GRETA VAN FLEET WITH RIVAL SONS AND THE VELVETEERS

July 23 at CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 N. 10th St. Grammy-winning rock band Greta Van

Fleet is known for songs such as "Highway Tune" and "Heat Above." 7 p.m. Tickets: $36-$375.

402.341.1500.

–ticketmaster.com

VINCE GILL

July 23 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. One of the most popular artists

in modern country music, Vince Gill is famous for his top-notch songwriting, world-class guitar playing and warm, soaring tenor, and quick wit.

8 p.m. Tickets: $49.50-$124.50. 402.346.7372.

–ticketomaha.com

S. CAREY WITH COURTNEY HARTMAN

July 26 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave.

Drummer Sean Carey, who has served as drummer and backing vocalist for the group Bon Iver, explores themes of nature and sustainability in his solo music. 8 p.m. Tickets: $18. 402.884.5707.

–reverblounge.com

COIN WITH BLACKSTARKIDS

July 26 at The Admiral, 2234 S. 13th St. This

band formed in Nashville and brought their bright, indie pop sound to stages across North America during their 2021 tour. 8 p.m. Tickets: $29.50 general audience/$50 premiere balcony/$35 day of show.

–admiralomaha.com

JASON BOLAND AND THE STRAGGLERS

July 29 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. The country group has independently sold

more than 500,000 records and released 10 albums. 8 p.m. $23 advanced/$28 day of show.

402.884.5353.

–waitingroomlounge.com

OMAHA MAGAZINE | EVENTS CALENDAR

EL FANTASMA

• Old Market (11th and Jackson streets) 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays

Fantasma, is a Mexican singer-songwriter who performs regional music. 8:30 p.m. Tickets: $60$500. 402.934.9966.

–libertyfirstcreditunionarena.com

• Village Pointe (168th and Dodge streets) 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays

July 29 at Liberty First Credit Union Arena, 7300 Q St. Alexander Garcia, also known as El

• Papillion (City Park) 5-8 p.m. Wednesdays

PAT BENATAR AND NEIL GIRALDO

LEASHES AT LAURITZEN

classic rock hits such as “Love is a Battlefield” and “Heartbreaker.” 8 p.m. Tickets: $39.50-$199.

712.329.6000.

–caesars.com/harrahs-council-bluffs/shows

Canines can explore the grounds and enjoy treats and water located at stations throughout the garden. Adults can bring up to two dogs. 5-8 p.m. Tickets: $10 for non-members, $5 for dogs, free for members. 402.346.4002.

–lauritzengardens.org

July 30 at Stir Concert Cove, 1 Harrah’s Blvd., Council Bluffs. Benatar is known for

BROTHER MOSES

July 31 at Barnato, 225 N. 170th St. Arkan-

sas-based band Brother Moses formed in 2014 and have incorporated catchy hooks and intertwined guitar parts into their indie rock songs. 8 p.m.

Tickets: $15-$250.

–barnato.bar

MARK IRVIN

July 31 at Sumtur Amphitheater, 11691 S. 108th St. Mark Irvin is a singer/songwriter, recording

artist, freelance musician, and music educator from Omaha. 7 p.m. Tickets: free.

–papillion.org

PLAYING WITH FIRE FESTIVAL WEEKEND II

Aug. 12-13 at Turner Park, 3110 Farnam St. PwF is dedicated to supporting local, non-

profit organizations and building bonds between people–locally, nationally, and internationally– with free, live music concerts presented by brilliant worldwide musicians.

–playingwithfireomaha.net

OUTLANDIA FESTIVAL

Aug. 12-13 at Falconwood Park, 905 Allied Road, Bellevue. National acts Wilco and The

National play alongside locals such as Mesonjixx and Clarence Tilton at this event, being held for the first time. Times and tickets vary.

–outlandiafestival.com

» Family & More « FARMERS MARKETS

Here are the times and dates for the local markets.

Attendees are encouraged to check with organizers for availability before attending any market.

• Aksarben Village (67th Street and Mercy Road) 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Sundays • Council Bluffs (Bayliss Park) 4:30-7:30 p.m.

Thursdays • Gifford Park Neighborhood Market (33rd and California streets) 5-8 p.m. Fridays

July 4 and 11, and Aug. 1 and 8 at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St.

RALSTON INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION

July 3-4 in Downtown Ralston, 7400 Main St. Th is year’s theme is to be determined, but

the event always includes a kiddie parade, street dances, quilt show, carnival, and more. The big parade will commence at 1 p.m. Admission: free.

402.339.7737.

–ralstonareachamber.org/events/calendar

RIBSTOCK FESTIVAL

July 23 at Stinson Park in Aksarben Village.

Th is celebration of barbecue features rib sampling, a photo booth, and live music. Proceeds go toward the Food Bank for the Heartland, Project WeeCare, and the Millard Business Association scholarship fund. Noon to 10 p.m. Admission: $5. 402.496.1616.

–aksarbenvillage.com

BENSON DAYS

July 30 and 31 along 60th and Maple St. Benson Days celebrates the neighborhood’s creative culture. Saturday features a parade starting at Benson High. Sunday features a kickball tournament, bike ride, and tour of Benson’s historic buildings. Email bensondaysne@gmail.com for more information.

Admission: free.

–bensondays.com

NEW AMERICAN ARTS FESTIVAL

Aug. 5 in Benson, 60th St. at Military Ave. The

street festival will include exhibits, food trucks, and on-street performances. 5-10 p.m. Admission: free. Email info@bffomaha.org for more information.

–bffomaha.org

PETFEST 2022

NEBRASKA BALLOON AND WINE FESTIVAL

Aug. 19-20 at Ta-Ha-Zouka Park, Elkhorn.

Guests can taste award-winning wines, watch hot air balloon launches, view arts and craft displays, and more. 5 p.m. Friday, 3 p.m. Saturday. Tickets: $21-$15 adults, $8 children under 12, children 5 and under free. 402.346.8003.

–showofficeonline.com/NebraskaWineBalloon

OMAHA FASHION WEEK

Aug. 22-27 at Omaha Design Center, 1502 Cuming St. OFW is returning to the runway

for Fall 2022. The MAGIS Showcase will feature work by emerging and talented designers. 6 p.m.

Ticket prices vary. 402.937.1061.

–omahafashionweek.com

MILLARD DAYS

Aug. 23-28 at Andersen Park, 136th and Q St. Th is event includes a parade, carnival, beer

garden, tractor pull, and live music. Times vary.

Admission: free, $25 for carnival. 402.679.5258.

–millarddays.com

DUNDEE DAY

Aug. 20 in Dundee, 50th St. and Underwood Ave. Th is street festival celebrates the Dundee

neighborhood with a parade, 5k run, art and craft vendors, pancake breakfast, book sale, food trucks, live music, and a beer garden. Admission: free.

–dundeeday.org

SEPTEMBERFEST

Sept. 2-5 at CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 N. 10th St. This festival runs through Labor Day

weekend and provides musical acts, educational and artistic displays, a carnival, Omaha’s largest parade, a beer garden, and food. Times vary.

Admission: $7 per person per day, children 5 and under free. 402.278.2951.

–septemberfestomaha.org

Aug. 13 at Petshop, 2725 N. 62nd St. BFF's

annual music festival fundraiser will present an incredible lineup of local musicians, artists, and performers. Times vary. Tickets: $30 advance, $35 day of show. Email info@bffomaha.org for more information.

–bffomaha.org

Event times and details are correct as of presstime, but are subject to change.

Omaha Magazine encourages readers to visit venues' websites and/or calling ahead before attending an event or visiting a museum.

JULY/AUGUST 2022

// 13 //

For expanded content, open the camera on your smart device and hover over the QR code above.

JULY/AUGUST 2022

// 15 //

“

my ought has always been ‘I ve e music and I’m p tty g d, so t’s see what happens.

-De ck Higgins

"

eleased by French independent music label Sordide Sentimental (noted for capturing isolated flares of new-wave supernova Joy Division prior to their cataclysmic end), 1986’s Essence & Charm LP includes an informative note on the back, fuchsia and gold block-letters leaping past jewel case glare: “Music of intense charm…The music of Digital Sex is superb, very melodious, enchanting and marked by strange vigour, seductive and nervous,…for they are made of the stuff of authentic creators and not that of imitators…”

While this note, and the front cover’s casual, albeit illustrated, nudity, is very much de la mode Françoise, it’s for good reason: while Essence flew over the heads of many Midwestern listeners, it landed a No. 1 single in Southern France—prompting the above rerelease (with additional tracks)—and Nebraska’s first contribution to the CD format.

This is due, in large part, to one of progressive rock’s most enduring, yet combustible, artistic forces: Omaha’s own post-punk Prometheus, Dereck Higgins.

“With Digital Sex, when I started that band, the idea was ‘let me see what can happen,’ it wasn’t the idea like when Rush said ‘We’re gonna make it!’” Higgins recalled, “my thought has always been ‘I love the music and I’m pretty good, so let’s see what happens.’

I never wanted to be rich and famous, I wanted to know that I was good, that I could come up with music that’s original…And I’m still going, yeah, I’ll be 67 in July.”

With John Tingle’s guitar riffs, Stephen Sheehan’s vocals, Greg Tsichlis’ drumbeats, and Higgins’ bass smoldering with the airy, portentous weight of a cumulonimbus, Digital Sex eventually drew attention stateside, culminating in an appearance on MTV News. Yet, as often occurs at the melting point of drugs, sex, and rock ’n’ roll, the chemistry proved tricky.

“Yeah, we broke up constantly. We started out in about ’82, and we got the album out by ’86, but we kept getting back together into the ’90s because what were doing was so potent, you know…”

In time, Digital Sex’s brand of bottled lightning would lose its lid completely, grooves of controlled chaos worn down by mounting creative impasse.

The breakup hasn’t deterred Higgins’ ambitions, though, and judging by his borderline superhuman output in the decades since, one might conclude—as the Nebraska Music Hall of Fame did in 2019—that it had the opposite effect.

That’s because a Higgins blood test is incomplete until measured in treble clefts, octaves, and time signatures—revealing a double helix of musical virtuosity and relentless self-expression inseparable from his DNA. Apparently, the condition is hereditary.

“Both of my parents were musicians, they met on the road. So I grew up in a musical household here in Omaha,” Higgins said. “My parents told me I was rockin’ to music before I could walk, you know, Chucky Berry, Little Richard, and the Everly Brothers were the ones that would just trip my trigger when I was a baby.”

While growing up, his father, brass man James “Red” Higgins, introduced young Dereck to a number of larger-than-life figures.

“North Omaha is criminally ignored, historically, it was a hotbed for music, everyone from Louis Armstrong to Duke Ellington, Count Basie to Miles Davis…they all played over here on the North side,” Higgins said. “It’s separate from the white circuit, called the Chitlin Circuit, these amazing musicians would stay with us, and we’d have dinner with them.”

“Yeah, I sat on John Coltrane’s lap, true story,” he said with a grin.

These fond family memories are in sharp relief for Higgins, with the 2021 death of his brother, Patrick, still heavy on his heart.

“I discovered my brother dead in his apartment last year…traumatic as f**k, wasn’t expecting it,” Higgins said. “My brother was one of my biggest fans, and a very talented jazz guitarist…I was trying to encourage him to get back into the game because he was battling addiction and had two heart attacks in five years…that’s what took him out. Damn.”

Such loss underscores Higgins’ belief in the transformative, healing power of music—and the tragedy of its absence— strengthened by a 27-year tenure as a licensed mental health specialist. This sentiment not only extends to blood relatives, but also the brothers and sisters he’s made in rehearsals, on stage, and in the recording booth. Some, like 24-year-old Chemicals bandmate Jacob “Cubby” Phillips have come to view Higgins as a father figure.

“He is so supportive of my passions,” Phillips said, “and his commitment to his own passions—he could’ve decided to pursue more typical life paths—but he didn’t because he loves this sh*t so much, he loves his music and he needs it. That’s inspiring to me, extremely inspiring.”

Phillips’ praise is well-founded. Higgins keeps busy with his music label DVH Recordings, activity in as many as 10 local acts at a time—punk band ATF, progressive outfit inDreama, the Dereck Higgins Experience (D H X), David Nance Group, and the aforementioned Chemicals, to name a few—plus a YouTube channel broadly focused on his world-renowned record collection (numbering over 27,000 subscribers at time of writing).

He offered the following advice to Phillips and other aspiring artists: Maintain harmony.

“The creative process is the management of the highs and the lows,” Higgins affirmed, “wait for it, you can’t push it, it’s like they say with birth, don’t push 'til it’s time to push…believe in yourself. Just let it roll, you know?

“Let the music come to you.”

Visit dereckhiggins.bandcamp.com for more information.

JULY/AUGUST 2022

// 17 //

18

THE CURTAIN

RISES RISES RISES RISES RISES RISES RISES RISES RISES

ON NEBRASKA SHAKESPEARE:

T Y RONE MORE

BE A SL E Y

SE T S

INCLUSI V E

A

NE W,

SCENE

A+C THEATER // STORY BY SEAN ROBINSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN // DESIGN BY DEREK JOY

“MY FOCUS IS TO BRING IN MORE PEOPLE FROM THE COMMUNITY AND SHOW HOW SHAKESPEARE’S STORIES ARE RELEVANT TODAY. WE’RE WORKING ON WAYS TO SHOW HUMANITY IN THOSE STORIES AND BE MORE ACCESSIBLE, INVITING, AND WELCOMING.”

-TYRONE BEASLEY

Beasley took the position last summer, getting hired around the same time as Brett THEATER Bernardini, Nebraska Shakespeare’s executive director. Together, “To be or not to be …” the two of them have worked to create a Shakespeare posed greater culture of that question cen- belonging within the turies ago, and it organization and for rings true today. It’s everyone who interone of many Tyrone acts with it.

Th at statement was Beasley must ask more than just empty himself as Nebraska This all comes on words—it was the Shakespeare’s new the heels of last beginning of immeartistic director and year’s cancellation diate change, ushdirector of education. of Shakespeare on ered by Beasley and In this role, he’ll help the Green amid con- Bernardini’s hiring. prove whether the troversy over racial “There was a restrucorganization can rise diversity. At the time, turing of our internal to the occasion to be a production members culture, and Tyrone space of creativity and resigned due to a offered incredible inclusivity—or not. belief that Nebraska perspective as we Shakespeare wasn’t wrote a contract “My focus is to bring in doing enough to be with the community,” more people from the equitable and inclu- Bernardini said. community and show sive. The company’s how Shakespeare’s sto- board of directors “These are commitries are relevant today,” issued a statement, ments on how we Beasley said. “We’re including an action plan to become more working on ways to plan to improve. diverse, equitable, show humanity in and inclusive. Th is those stories and be includes short and more accessible, invitlong-term goals, like ing, and welcoming.” the hiring of diverse staff, educational programs for underrepresented areas of our state, and creating events safe for open dialogue.”

A+C

Under Beasley’s creative leadership, Shakespeare on the Green makes its return to Elmwood Park this year. Beasley not only helped lay the foundation for creating a more welcoming space, but he’s also directing this year’s tragedy, Othello.

“After two years away, it’s going to be so exciting to get back in the park and have an audience,” Beasley said. “I’m thrilled to be directing, for the community, and that my father is a part of it performing in a show.” Among his many ac c ompl ish ment s, Born in Omaha, Beasley studied acting, Beasley is the son of earning a graduate nationally known degree in theater actor John Beasley, from California State who is known for U n i v e r s i t y - L o n g roles in the film The Beach, and perMighty Ducks and the formed at Chicago’s TV show Everwood. esteemed Goodman It was his dad’s career Theater under directhat inspired him to tor Peter Sellars. He pursue theater and returned to Omaha gave him his first taste to hone his directof directing. ing skills at the John Beasley Theater before “I would watch him as joining the Rose as a kid growing up, and artistic associate he would ask me after its director of outbound a play, ‘How do you programming. think I did? I know you’ll be straight with During his time at me,’” Beasley said. the Rose, he created “And I’d say some- workshops for incarthing like, ‘When you cerated youth—a first came out, it felt gram he would likeproto like you were acting. emulate for Nebraska Then you got more Shakespeare. into it and became the character.’”

Beasley said, “I’m looking to What followed from really expand educational this was a career as opportunities storied and impressive Shakespeare because doesn’t as his father’s. exist within a bubble.

His works should be accessible to everyone, beyond drama classrooms and ticketed theaters.”

“As a director, I love to work collaboratively,” Beasley said.

“I love facilitating the creativity of other artists—I aspire to do that as an artistic director as well. I want everyone to bring what they have to the table, different ideas and then let’s talk those ideas through.”

The spotlight is on Beasley.

Ba lancing stage directing duties with helping to enact large social change within an organization seems like a lofty job—and one that doesn’t happen overnight. But, if his previous experience and determination are any inclination, Beasley is sure to earn a standing ovation.

“One of the things t hat nonprof its make a mistake of is they think everyone from the outside has the right answers,” Bernardini said. “But this—the theater—is Tyrone’s world. This is the space he inhabits. Success will come because this is his universe.”

Another way Beasley Visit nebraskashakehas worked to make speare.org for more poetry and plays from information. the 16th century more approachable is by reframing stories with a modern twist. Prior to accepting his fulltime staff position at Nebraska Shakespeare, he worked with the organization directing a hip-hop version of Romeo and Juliet.

21

Don Hall to THE

A+C FILM T u r n s

V i s u a l s

STORY BY JOEL STEVENS

|

i n t o

O s c a r s

DESIGN BY DEREK JOY

23

A+C FILM on Hall has won an Academy Award. He’s directed billion-dollar Disney properties from Winnie the Pooh to this year’s Oscar-nominated Raya and the Last Dragon.

The next three features Hall directed or co-directed would all be computer-generated and combine to make more than $1.3 billion at the box office. Big Hero Six won Best Animated Feature at the 87th Academy Awards.

into fully formed worlds that are felt as much as they’re seen, whether it be a techno-near future San Fransokyo, the magical realm of Kumandra in Raya, or mythological Motunui in Moana.

His first streaming series drops on Disney+ this summer. Strange World, his much-anticipated fifth animated feature, lands in November.

“I think that’s the fun part of the process, especially early on in development where we spend so much time thinking through these different worlds,” Hall said.

It’s the drawing that captures Hall’s attention. The sketched DNA of animation springing to life from pen to script to screen is still his first love. In many ways the 53-year-old who arrived at Walt Disney Animation Studios in 1995, fresh out of the California Institute of the Arts, is still the same kid who grew up drawing and consuming animation and fantasy stories in Glenwood, Iowa.

“We’re trying to build a world that feels familiar and lived in, even if it’s a fantasy world. We want it to be realistic at least to the parameters of the logic of the world we’re building. I really enjoy that, but I think everybody at Disney does this as sort of a part of what we do.

I think that’s what makes these movies feel so big and expansive.”

“I still draw as much as I can,” said Hall, adding every one of his film’s rough character designs, visual development, and storyboards all began in hands-on collaboration.

Today’s animated films are almost entirely computer-generated, but the foundation remains the hand-drawn image. Drawing that is typically done digitally, on Wacom tablets or iPads like Hall uses.

“Generally, I draw more at the early developmental stages of a film,” Hall said. “The deeper into our process we get, the less time I have to draw. I’ll do quick sketches in meetings to illustrate a thought, but that’s about it. Drawing is the thing I love to do most in life. Hard to imagine not drawing. Guess that’s one of the reasons I love animation.”

Hall’s first job in animation was as a storyboard apprentice—“An intern, really,” he said—but for him, it was a dream job. The first thing after getting the Disney nod was to call his parents, Janet and Don Hall Sr., who still reside in Glenwood.

“It was emotional, but there was a practical component to it as well, I just felt like it was the place I was going to learn the most,” Hall said of his Disney hiring. “To be there—with all the history and the legacy in addition to all the great people I knew were there—where I was going to learn the most dictated everything.”

Hall would go on to cut his teeth in various roles on a half-dozen projects, including hits The Emperor’s New Groove, Tarzan, and The Princess and the Frog. He stepped up to the director’s chair for the first time in the 2011 Winnie the Pooh reboot. The film would be the studio’s last traditionally animated feature. // 24 //

JULY/AUGUST 2022

"We made movies.

We’re stilL making movies. If we can do that during such a global crisis, I think you walk away with a certain amount of confidence."

DON HALL Hall is currently deep in production on Strange World, Disney’s 61st animated feature film. Based on his original story idea, Hall’s tight-lipped about the plot that reportedly revolves around a family of explorers. A single publicity shot from the film shows a colorful fantasy vista with a decidedly pulp magazine look and feel.

“That’s a pretty fair assumption,” Hall demurred. “I like those stories. I’ll put it that way.”

Hall co-wrote the script with Qui Nguyen, who is also co-directing the project.

Nguyen also co-wrote Raya and the Last Dragon.

If Hall’s latest feature is indeed influenced by the sci-fi fantasy magazines of his youth, an affection for those stories and their universe building are all over his oeuvre. With Big Hero 6, the filmmaker plunks audiences

Hall returns to his biggest hit June 29 with the Disney+ Big Hero Sixinspired Baymax! The streaming series is Disney’s first to be produced entirely by the feature animation division.

“This was another world that was so expansive and built, and we only explored what we explored in the movie,” Hall said. “But ultimately it came down to Baymax the character and wanting to revisit a character that is very near and dear to my heart.”

Nearly three decades into the business, Hall is still discovering things about animation, creativity, collaboration, and, in the case of the COVID-19 pandemic, necessity. Raya and the Last Dragon, Hall’s 2021 hit, was largely completed on time and on budget from his and his production crew’s homes during lockdown.

“We made movies, not a movie,” Hall said. “We made movies. We’re still making movies. If we can do that during such a global crisis, I think you walk away with a certain amount of confidence. The movies haven’t fallen off in quality at all, they’ve actually furthered the art and the technique of what we do. To come out of that with confidence, I think we learned some things practically we can put into practice going forward.”

Search “Don Hall” on imdb.com for more information.

// OBVIOUSLY OMAHA //

01

STORY BY LINDA PERSIGEHL DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK

It's Amateur Night

OPEN MIC SPOTS IN OMAHA

02

L

ocals who want to take a stab at stand-up comedy, try singing an original song, or jam with other musicians have great options in Omaha. A number of venues around town host free open mic nights throughout the work week. Here’s a rundown of some sites where aspiring comedians, crooners, and rock stars can get their moment in the sun.

1

DUBLINER PUB

1205 Harney St. 402.342.5887 @dublinerpubomaha on Facebook The Irish-themed lounge in Omaha’s Old Market hosts a comedy open mic night every Monday from 9-11 p.m. Each performer gets five minutes on stage to drum up the laughs. There’s also a writing workshop held beforehand from 7:30-8:30 p.m., so performers can collaborate and fine-tune their material prior to hitting their mark in the spotlight.

2

THERAPY BAR & GRILL

5059 S. 108th St. 402.933.3669 @Therapy108 on Facebook This neighborhood bar in northwest Omaha offers the typical fried appetizers and sports TV, as well as Twisted Tuesdays—open jam sessions from 7-11 p.m. Customers can enjoy taco specials and $3 margaritas while they lend an ear to amateur singers, bands, and solo acts. Therapy’s Facebook page confirms “All types of music are welcome.”

3

THE BACKLINE COMEDY THEATRE

1618 Harney St. 402.720.7670 backlinecomedy.com

This downtown venue sponsors “laughs, beer, and fun” in front of an encouraging crowd year round. Open mic nights are held every Wednesday at 8 p.m., with names being drawn for a chance to take the stage and deliver four minutes of funny quips. The theater also offers open stage nights on Tuesdays at 8:15 p.m. for folks to try their hand at improvisation and skit comedy. Each performer is allowed four minutes of stage time, or 20 minutes for a team of five.

4

THE DOWN UNDER LOUNGE

3530 Leavenworth St. 402.933.3927 theduomaha.com

03

The Down Under Lounge hosts Wednesday Nite Live, its weekly open mic event showcasing local talent, 8 p.m. to close. The lounge maintains a separate DU Open Mic Facebook page, which explains, “Artists sign up in advance for 15 minutes, or a threesong set. Everything goes—music, poetry, comedy, magic, etc. It’s your time to shine!”

5

BEACH HOUSE BAR & GRILL

04

5338 N. 103rd St. 402.933.0277 Search Wired-Pub-Grill on Facebook Patrons looking to tickle their funny bone can find a show every week at Beach House Bar & Grill, formerly Wired Pub & Grill.

The neighborhood bar hosts Comics Anonymous open mic night on Thursdays from 9-11 p.m. Performers are granted six minutes of stage time to prove their comedic mettle.

Entrance to the show is free.

6

05

THE BERKLEY

1901 Leavenworth St. theberkleyomaha on Facebook This seated mixed-use venue offers a more upscale environment for live performances than a typical bar, with a stellar sound system and craft cocktails menu. The space hosts an open mic supper club every Thursday, with dinner specials served 5 p.m. to midnight, and an open mic for musical performers 9 p.m. to midnight.

06

JULY/AUGUST 2022

// 81 //

HORROR-THEMED RESTAURANT SERVES THE EYE AS MUCH AS THE MOUTH

R E T S CLUB MON ]

DINING FEATURE

[

S U O R T S N O M T A H T NOT

STORY BY JONATHAN OROZCO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SITZMANN | DESIGN BY MATT WIECZOREK JULY/AUGUST

// 82 //

2022

WALKING INTO THE RESTAURANT, A DINER IS IMMERSED IN A COMPENDIUM OF CHARACTERS FROM HORROR CULT-CLASSIC FILMS, SUCH AS DRACULA OR FRANKENSTEIN. ocated in the Old Market, Monster Club is right next to Tokyo Sushi on Howard Street. It’s a pretty standard restaurant, serving barbecue and bar food, but the twist is in its theme. Decked out with many posters, caricatures, and an atmosphere of a kitschy 1950s-1960s horror movie, Monster Club primarily entices passersby with its decor. It all starts outside, with large gilded lettering wedged between two hands of Frankenstein’s monster.

Being horror-themed, clientele would expect to be filled with fear as they dine in, but the interior design is pretty tame. “We wanted a much more museum feel,” said owner Neil Azevedo. It’s more entertainment, than say, a haunted house.

Monster Club started out as a fairly new idea to the entrepreneurial Azevedo. This punk aesthetic began with Drastic Plastic in 1982, the Old Market retail staple originally located nearby at 1209 Howard St. Over the years, Azevedo wanted to fill a niche where he could serve beer and wine in a record store. It took a slowdown in brick-and-mortar sales because of online shopping around 2016 to push Azevedo forward.

After realizing it would be too expensive to bring his leased building up to code, he decided to move all his operations to the former O’Connor’s Irish Pub, where Drastic Plastic and Monster Club now reside.

That’s where it all began. Now, Azevedo is hoping Monster Club can become a hotspot in Omaha’s gastronomic scene. It officially opened in June 2019 and has survived the strong wave of closures brought on because of COVID-19.

“When we got this place, we had to take it to the next level. We want to offer a real experience when people come here,” Azevedo said. And he’s not kidding. Walking into the restaurant, a diner is immersed in a compendium of characters from horror cult-classic films, such as Dracula or Frankenstein. There’s even a largerthan-life-sized statue of a skeleton greeting guests near the entrance.

Every inch of the restaurant is accounted for. There are monsters crawling out of faux windows, looking at diners menacingly; skull chandeliers are suspended from the ceiling, and lanterns made from old comic books line the bar.

Azevedo consulted with Heartland Scenic Studios to realize his vision of the dining area.

Mark Blackman, a designer, “had the idea for booths resembling old coach hearses from the 18th century,” Azevedo said. “They were used as props from Dracula horror films in the 1960s.”

These hearse-inspired booths are a deep crimson, with black-stained wood, illuminated with a lantern on either end. While inspired by antique hearses, they’re quite modern, taking into consideration 20th-century design. They’re pretty slick.

Everything else is plastic or foam. Much of the decor tries to mimic stone or flesh, but it all looks very artificial and overdone. It’s like an extreme Madame Tussauds that serves food.

That doesn’t deter people. In fact, manager Tony Mongello brags about these diners. “The clientele has evolved over the years. We see people from all around the country and the world.”

Boosting this is that the restaurant is child-friendly. Mongello continued, saying, “[kids] know who everybody is when they come in.” And kids love it. Azevedo said much of the clientele comes after visiting Henry Doorly Zoo. There was even a child who celebrated his fifth birthday at Monster Club, and wants to celebrate it again for his sixth birthday.

can be er Burger urant’s st n o M e h T h the resta ser ved witsweet potato fries. signature

The nachos are served with their signature brisket chili, red beans, queso, jalapeño rings, guacamole, and yogurt crema.

T

he restaurant’s menu is standard American diner fare, even though dish names might not suggest it. Here and there, you’ll find “monster” as a preface for burgers or nachos, or for kids, “little monster.”

The portions are generous, too.

The signature Monster Burger is a stack of two ⅓ pound patties, with cheese, jalapeños, bacon, beef brisket, onions, and the house poltergeist sauce.

Vegetarians and vegans are surprisingly welcome with the vegan “meat” loaf sandwich and the black bean burger. These are both made with plant-based ingredients.

The drinks menu is just as harmless. Signature cocktails are fruity and sweet, like the Frankenstein’s Monster cocktail—made from coconut rum, velvet falernum, Midori, pineapple, tiki, and orange bitters.

Monster Club also serves milkshakes for kids and adults, the latter spiked with booze. One enticing example is the Creepy Cookies & Cream shake, a rich mix of vodka, cream liqueur, and creme-filled chocolate cookies.

LEGEND HAS IT THAT A MAN DIED CLOSE TO THE BUILDING AND DECIDED TO STICK AROUND AND FRIGHTEN THE BUILDING’S OCCUPANTS. AZEVEDO SAID THIS GHOST WOULD FREQUENTLY TALK TO O’CONNOR, AND EVEN TAKE HER KEYS.

Azevedo and Mongello were genuine when discussing this.

According to Azevedo, the building Monster Club is housed in one of the most haunted buildings in Omaha. In an interview, he said the second floor where Drastic Plastic is located is the most haunted area.

It goes back to the building’s original owner, Katie O’Connor. Azevedo said the building used to be an administrative government building, like a post office. Legend has it that a man died close to the building and decided to stick around and frighten the building’s occupants. Azevedo said this ghost would frequently talk to O’Connor, and even take her keys.

It’s hard to discern if this was made up by a diner who had way too much to drink and whose mind was playing tricks on them, or if a ghost genuinely continues to occupy the building. I can sincerely tell you when I visited Monster Club and Drastic Plastic, I felt or saw nothing.

The drinks menu also diverges from the theme of the restaurant, going from horror to space age in the line of Barbarella and Star Trek instead of It or Gremlins. These slightly pricier drinks are only available on Friday and Saturday in the evening—but an Alien Ray Gun or a Flaming Atomic Zombie might hit the spot after a long week.

The more one hears about these kinds of incidents the more makes it seem as though intoxication is heightening someone’s superstitions.

Part of the allure of this place may be its paranormal aspect. Of course, whether one believes it or not may make a difference, but

Mongello recounted many stories of fearful clients acting a little less than normal at Monster Club. A while back, the restaurant

had a statue of Regan MacNeil from The Exorcist on display and many adults would not go near it.

Another incident included a $5,000 lifesized clown statue. “This kid had been overserved, not by us, and I saw him come up to Pennywise and started throwing punches at his face,” Mongello said. Afterwards, the statue was moved to the restaurant’s warehouse.

Monster Club has some exciting new additions coming. At presstime, Azevedo revealed that a patio was set to have a lagoon/tiki theme for the summer.

Monster Club may be Omaha’s only horrorthemed restaurant, but it’s filling a need for entertainment mixed with dining the city is asking for. Overall, Monster Club is a familyfriendly restaurant where one can bring their kids without getting spooked and eat reasonable food at a reasonable price. It’s not fine dining, but that’s not what this restaurant is going for.

Azevedo leaves one bit of advice for prospective diners: “Come early, because we don’t take reservations.”

Visit monsterclubomaha.com for more information.

JULY/AUGUST 2022

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CHEF PROFILE

Corina Figueroa’s Star Quality Trials, and Successes,

by Fire

// 86 //

JULY/AUGUST 2022

I

STORY dave zorko | PHOTOGRAPHY bill sitzmann | DESIGN matt wieczorek

ntelligence and ambition can yield great results. Such is the case with Corina Figueroa, chef at Lola’s on 50th and Dodge streets, which shares space with Film Streams Dundee.

Figueroa’s path to being head chef at Lola’s began at her home in Mexico City, Mexico, where she said that she has “always loved food…always been very hungry.” She also said her father taught her “how to eat anything,” and no matter what it was that she should “try it just once, if you don’t like it, you don’t have to try it ever again.”

She enjoyed food, but first obtained a chemical engineering degree in Mexico. She then traveled to New York City in 2010 to study audio engineering at the SAE Institute. There, Figueroa was cooking for herself, but found greater joy in cooking for others and as a “way to connect with people.”

Then in 2015, Figueroa moved from New York to Omaha.

A year later she started a Mediterranean-influenced catering concept that would be the foundation of the food later found at Lola’s. This effort functioned for about two years with a coworker, then solo for a couple of years.

Lola’s other partners—general manager Clare Watson Bartolomei, Philip Schaffart, and baker/barista Stephen Bartolomei—collaborated with Figueroa to create a dream together. That dream was built on friendship. Figueroa’s connection started with Schaffart in 2007 when they met in Mexico City during a music tour. Figueroa was the promoter and Schaffart was with a touring band. Her connection with Stephen and Clare began in Omaha on New Year's Eve 2007 while Figueroa was visiting her boyfriend.

Fast forward to 2019. Clare and Stephen returned from New York to Omaha and, with Figueroa, were planning on creating a catering company. Separately Schaffart got connected to Film Streams and called Figueroa. As she said, “[In] the end I guess we were all at the right place at the right time.”

Figueroa had no formal training as a chef. Owning partner Shaffart relayed that, “Corina had never chef 'd or even cooked in a commercial kitchen prior to opening Lola's.

She's also never managed a staff or a restaurant.”

Figueroa pressed forward, driven by her love of food. She relayed that the menu “came out of what we wanted to eat, what we like to eat, the places we visited, a lot of romantic ideas of what a cafe/restaurant should be like.” That menu features in-house breads baked by Bartolomei and has simple, elevated, sandwiches like the Toastie—made with scrambled eggs, prosciutto, and parmigiano reggiano on rosemary focaccia. It also features a favorite of Figueroa’s, the Spanish Tortilla, which is a sliced potato and onion omelet served with salad, grilled sourdough, and crushed tomato.

Figueroa, until her recent hire of a sous chef, ran “the kitchen entirely…the menu…ordering…[and] managing of the back of house. Clare handles the front of house and then Steve does the coffee program and is the lead baker.” Figueroa is the dominant force behind the menu and said she likes to recreate things she herself craves or has seen in a picture. She said she is inspired by food that she cooks and that she reads a lot of books and magazines. “Eating different things is just such an inspiration…keeps [me] fresh and makes me excited.”

Additionally she enjoys seasonal ingredients, but that it can be a challenge in that, “there’s like a point in the season where it’s like fashion where you don’t know what to wear. Do I wear [a] sweater or do I wear sandals?” She is looking forward to working with different vegetables, cooking techniques, and she mentioned that she “might experiment with fish, [but she is] hesitant as we’re not on the coast.”

The aforementioned sous chef was hired at a pivotal time, as Figueroa decided to take a vacation and then broke her leg while snowboarding. In late April, Figueroa was about to return to the kitchen.

The self-taught culinarian tackles her dreams, whatever they may be—whether chemical, audio, or culinary— with a side of snowboarding. She keeps moving forward with purpose. “She's a total badass, super-determined, and tough as hell. The amount of time, effort, and pain she's put into transforming from a hobbyist to a professional…what she's done is impossible, really,” Schaffart said.

Tackling all of the first-time responsibilities of running a kitchen restaurant—from menus to management, came as part of the business. Figueroa said, “I just, like, had to do it…this had to happen...you don’t know how to run a restaurant, but you have to do it. The drive was the people that work for us, [you] have to keep going.

So I guess that’s my process…do it.”

“Do it” and succeed. With her first restaurant venture doing well and her hunger to succeed in overdrive, Figueroa will continue to carve her own adventures while her patrons benefit from her ambitions.

Visit lolasomaha.com for more information.

“

[the menu] came out of what

we wanted to eat, what we like to eat, the places we visited, a lot of romantic ideas of what a cafe/restaurant should be like.” -Corina Figueroa

JULY/AUGUST 2022

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THE VIBE AT CUMBIA WAS SPECIAL—IT FELT LIKE A FESTIVE PLACE. I SPENT A FEW MINUTES WATCHING THE BARTENDER MAKING DRINKS AND INTERACTING WITH CUSTOMERS. HE SEEMED TO BE HAVING SO MUCH FUN, AND NOT IN A FLASHY WAY.

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˚˚ A G R E AT P L A C E F O R PA R C H E ˚˚ DINING REVIEW s to r y b y ta m s e n b u t le r

P H OTO G R A P H Y By b i l l s i t z m a n n D E S I G N b y m at t w i e c z o re k JULY/AUGUST

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2022

DINING REVIEW

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The food menu isn’t what I expected for a restaurant that is advertised as a tapas bar. Their selection of appetizers is limited and their entrée menu consists mostly of sandwiches, especially choripánes, Argentinian street sandwiches. We all ordered sandwiches, but my attempt to order the choripán vegetarian was thwarted because they were out of the vegetarian sausage. Our server was apologetic about it and suggested potato empanadas instead, so I agreed and ordered them.

My friends all enjoyed their choripánes, which were served with potato chips. Some ordered sandwiches with pork, and others with beef, but all were delighted by the spicy sausage with a tangy sauce and rich cheese.

The bread was similar to a ciabatta, but was soft instead of crusty.

Meanwhile, my potato empanadas were good, but the star was the accompanying salsa. It brought the empanadas to life with its vibrant flavors and not-so-spicy taste. I believe the potatoes were soaked in a veggie stew beforehand, but the potatoes were really center-stage with this one. I found them delightful because they did not have a bunch of spices loaded in, allowing the flavor of the potatoes and the corn masa to come through.

This was all well and good, but what I wanted was a sandwich like everyone else at my table.

My husband also ordered the patacones, an appetizer consisting of fried, smashed green plantains topped with a vegetable stew called hogao, traditionally a tomato and onion sauce similar to a sofrito. My husband was stationed in Honduras for some time years ago, where he developed a love of plantains, and deemed this appetizer delicious. He did add that if he had to share this appetizer, there probably wouldn’t have been enough to go around the entire table. It’s entirely possible, though, that he really liked them and didn’t want to share. // 90 //

JULY/AUGUST 2022

The vibe at Cumbia was special—it felt like a festive place. I spent a few minutes watching the bartender making drinks and interacting with customers. He seemed to be having so much fun, and not in a flashy way.

The bartender’s joy translated into wellprepared drinks. I already mentioned the flavorful sangria, but what impressed our table the most was the Guandolo, a nonalcoholic mixed drink with sugar cane, lime, and orange juice. It was a refreshing beverage that didn’t need alcohol to earn the designation of “drink we’d absolutely order again.”

Our server was friendly and fairly attentive in the beginning, although once we had our food he didn’t return. None of our waters were refilled throughout the duration of the meal. This again indicated to us that Cumbia Omaha is more of a bar than a restaurant. The server didn’t seem to know what to do with us after we were served.

When I visited the restroom, I was taken aback by the wallpaper of comic book pages, as it seemed out of character for the vibe of

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Though the food is indeed delicious, Cumbia Omaha is more bar than restaurant. It seems like a great place to have a drink and relax with friends, which is what my dining partners and I did while waiting for a table so we could order some food. Pro tip: order a pitcher of sangria. It was nicely balanced and had yummy fruit flavors. The more we drank, the less we minded the wait. It was the kind of sangria that could "sneak up" on someone.

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umbia Omaha has a display on their wall defining parche as a Columbian colloquialism that translates to a place where a group of friends can get together and do something. Cumbia Omaha is a great place for parche downtown.

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the restaurant. Upon returning to our table and telling everyone else about the bizarre restroom décor, one of my friends guessed that comic books are an important cultural phenomenon in Columbia, which led to him furiously searching Google to back up his hypothesis. Some of us guessed that the building used to be a comic book store and the bathrooms never got renovated.

Later, when I checked out Cumbia Omaha’s Facebook page, I realized the bathrooms are supposed to be perfect for selfies because of the brightly colored comic book pages and round mirror.

Cumbia Omaha is a great choice for those looking for a laid-back place to have some drinks with friends and snap some selfies.

Those who want an extensive menu and an actual tapas experience will find this probably isn’t the place for them.

Visit cumbiabistro.com for more information

CUM BIA OMAHA 329 S. 13TH ST. - CUMBIABISTRO.COM

$$$ FOO D S ERVICE AM BIAN CE PRICE OVERALL

5 STARS POSSI B LE

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- Sponsored Content -

Omaha

DINING GUIDE AMERICAN BARREL & VINE- $$ 1311 South 203rd St., Omaha, NE 68130 - 402.504.1777 Barrel and Vine’s restaurant is an elevated food experience that is made from scratch daily with love in our kitchen. Our menu combines a mixture of Chef driven creative dishes, craveable comfort meals and premium Nebraska steaks. Barrel & Vine also doubles as a live music venue and offers a rooftop bar, outdoor patio with firepits, and dozens of high end bourbons, scotch, and over 100 wine selections. Come check out an experience that is like nothing else in Nebraska. Open 7 days a week.

—bvomaha.com

DJ’S DUGOUT SPORTS BAR - $ Seven Metro Area Locations:

Bellevue - 10308 S. 23rd St. - 402.292.9096 Miracle Hills - 777 N. 114th St. - 402.498.8855 Downtown - 1003 Capitol Ave. - 402.763.9974 Aksarben - 2102 S. 67th St. - 402.933.3533 Millard - 17666 Welch Plaza - 402.933.8844 Elkhorn - 19020 Evans St. - 402.315.1985 Plattsmouth - 2405 Oak Hill Rd. - 402.298.4166 Voted Omaha’s #1 Sports Bar, DJ’s Dugout is locally and Vietnam Veteran owned. DJ’s Dugout features delicious burgers, wings, wraps, salads, sandwiches and an impressive drink menu. Plus, DJ’s has huge media walls full of HD TVs and projector screens.

Catch all the action at DJ’s seven Omaha-area locations.

Dig In... At The Dugout!

—djsdugout.com

JAMS- $$ 7814 Dodge St. - 402.399.8300 17070 Wright Plz, Ste. 100 - 402.810.9600 1101 Harney St. in the OldMarket - 402.614.9333 Jams is an Omaha restaurant legacy, an “American Grill” that offers a melting pot of different styles and varieties.

The dishes are made with high-quality ingredients that pair well with awardwinning wines or creative cocktails.

—jamseats.com

LE PEEP - $ 69th & Pacific - 402.933.2776 177th and Center St. - 402.934.9914 156th St. & W. Dodge Rd. - 402.408.1728 120th and Blondo St. - 402.991.8222 Le Peep puts a wholesome perspective on your favorite neighborhood breakfast and lunch spot. Fresh. Simple.

Elegant. Inviting. We put the emphasis on people, both patrons and staff. We focus on providing each of our guests the fresh food and friendly service that they have come to expect. Open daily 6:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

—lepeepomaha.com

STELLA’S - $ 106 S. Galvin Road, Bellevue - 402.291.6088 Since 1936, we’ve been making our world-famous Stella’s hamburgers the same way. The family secrets have been handed down to each owner, ensuring that your burger is the same as the one you fell in love with the first time you tried Stella’s. And if it’s your first time, we know you’ll be back! MondaySaturday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., closed Sunday.

—stellasbarandgrill.com

TED AND WALLY’S - $ 1120 Jackson St. - 402.341.5827 Come experience the true taste of homemade ice cream in the Old Market.

Since 1986, we’ve created gourmet ice cream flavors in small batches using rock salt and ice. We offer your favorites, plus unique flavors like margarita, green tea, Guinness, and French toast. Special orders available.

Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.- Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sunday. Noon-10 p.m.

—tedandwallys.com

VARSITY SPORTS CAFE - $$ Ralston - 9735 Q St. - 402.339.1944 Bellevue - 3504 Samson Way - 402.932.1944 Millard - 14529 F St. - 402.505.6660 Ralston, Bellevue, Millard and Dundee.

We are truly grateful to have been welcomed into each of these communities and welcome you in for good food, a cold drink and a comfy seat to enjoy the sport of your choosing! Determined to bring only the freshest ingredients, homemade dough and our specialty sauces to the table, we have worked hard to perfect our craft for you. Our goal is to bring the best food service to the area and show the best sports events that you want to see. Pick up and Delivery availalble. Please check website for hours of operation.

—varsityromancoinpizza.com

SUMMER SALADS FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY

MANDARIN CHICKEN SALAD st 2021 1 PLACE

st 2021 1 PLACE

SPORTS BAR

DINING GUIDE LEGEND

$=$1-10 • $$=$10-20 • $$$=$20-30 • $$$$=$30+

// 92 //

JULY/AUGUST 2022

BUFFALO CHICKEN SALAD

7 OMAHA METRO AREA LOCATIONS | DJSDUGOUT.COM |

Omaha

DINING GUIDE

I TA L I A N

Get a Little Saucy.

LO SOLE MIO RISTORANTE ITALIANO - $$ 3001 S. 32nd Ave. - 402.345.5656

Appetizers

CHANGE 2022 Winner

yH Happ our

an Dining Itali

2022 Winner

2022 Winner

SPEZIA SPECIALTIES

WOOD FIRE STEAKS & SEAFOOD INNOVATIVE PASTA—RISOTTO—GNOCCHI FRESH SALMON DAILY

Open 7 Days a Week for Lunch & Dinner

SPECIAL SUMMER DINING FEATURES Catering

PASTA AMORE - $$ 11027 Prairie Brook Rd. - 402.391.2585

Take Out & Patio Dining Available!

. Private Party Rooms . Walk-Ins Welcome 3125 South 72 nd Street

(Easy access off I-80, take 72 nd Street Exit)

402.391.2950 . Call today to make your reservation

Hamburger

The restaurant is located in a residential neighborhood, surrounded by charming homes. Everyone is greeted with homemade bread, a bowl of fresh tomatoes and basil, a bowl of oven-roasted garlic cloves, specially seasoned olive oil, and (at night) a jug of Chianti! The menu includes a large variety of pasta, chicken, veal, seafood, and even a delicious New York steak.

Traditional dishes such as lasagna, tortellini, and eggplant parmigiana are also available. Lunch offerings include panini, salads, and one of the best pizzas in town. Patio seating, full bar, and a great wine list complete the atmosphere. No reservations, except for private rooms.

—losolemio.com

Pastas are made fresh daily, including tortellini, fettuccine, and capellini.

Daily specials and menu items include a variety of fresh seafood and regional Italian dishes, such as linguini amore and calamari steak, penne Florentine, gnocchi, spaghetti puttanesca, and osso buco. Filet mignon is also offered for those who appreciate nationally renowned Nebraska beef. To complement your dining experience, the restaurant offers a full bar and extensive wine list. Be sure to leave room for homemade desserts, like the tiramisu and cannoli. Monday-Thursday 9 p.m. and Friday-Saturday 10 p.m.

Reservations recommended.

—pastaamore.com

thanks to our customers for voting us the “BEST BURGER

IN OMAHA 2022 First Place

“Serving World Famous Hamburgers Since 1936”

106 GALVIN RD., BELLEVUE, NE • 402-291-6088 • OPEN MONDAY - SATURDAY, 11 AM - 9 PM

DINING GUIDE LEGEND

$=$1-10 • $$=$10-20 • $$$=$20-30 • $$$$=$30+

JULY/AUGUST 2022

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HUNGRY? F O O D F E AT U R E S

. C H E F P R O F I L E S . R E S TA U R A N T R E V I E W S

OMAHAMAGA ZINE .COM

// 94 //

JULY/AUGUST 2022

Omaha

DINING GUIDE Breakfast

day Brunch Sun

Staff & Servi ce ait W

2022 First Place

2022 Winner

2022 First Place

156th & Dodge • 408-1728 177th & Center • 934-9914 120th & Blondo • 991-8222 69th & Pacific • 933-2776

Thanks for Voting Us # BREAKFAST YEARS in a Row!

14

1

Drive-Thru Open (Center St. Only) Open Daily 6:30am-2:00pm Serving Breakfast & Lunch All Day!

LEPEEPOMAHA.COM | @LEPEEPOMAHA

SPEZIA - $$$ 3125 S. 72nd St. - 402.391.2950 Choose Spezia for lunch or dinner, where you’ll find a casual elegance that ’s perfect for business guests, get-togethers, or any special occasion. Exceptional food, wine, and service, with a delectable menu: fresh seafood, certified Angus steaks, innovative pasta, risotto, gnocchi, cioppino, lamb, entrée salads, Mediterranean chicken, flatbreads, and fresh salmon daily. Enjoy a full bar, Italian and California wines, Anniversary/Lovers’ Booth (call to reserve), private dining rooms, and wood-fired grill. Open MondaySunday. Cocktail hour 4- 6 p.m., when all cocktails, glasses of wine, and beers are half price. Evening reservations recommended.

—speziarestaurant.com

MEXICAN FERNANDO’S - $ 7555 Pacific St. - 402.339.8006.

380 N. 114th St. - 402.330.5707

Nacho Typical Family Restaurant! xican Dining Me

ichanga Chim

2022 Winner

2022 Winner

Featuring Sonoran-style cooking made fresh daily. Catering and party rooms also available. MondayThursday 11 a.m.-10 p.m., FridaySaturday 11 a.m.11 p.m., Sunday 4-9 p.m.

—fernandosomaha.com

4 METRO LOCATIONS! www.romeosOMAHA.com n Sandwi ube ch Re

2022 First Place

Try Omaha’s Favorite Reuben!

Two Locations:

Omaha’s largest selection of craft beers.

3578 Farnam St • 402-345-1708 www.beercornerusa.com

2504 Farnam St & 2505 S. 133rd Plaza Order Online:

zencoffeecompany.com

DINING GUIDE LEGEND

$=$1-10 • $$=$10-20 • $$$=$20-30 • $$$$=$30+

JULY/AUGUST 2022

// 95 //

Omaha

DINING GUIDE

MODERN COCKTAILS MIXED WITH AMERICA’S MUSIC

3825 N. 30 TH ST., OMAHA, NE @JOHNNYTSBARANDBLUES

LA MESA - $$ 158th St. and W. Maple Rd. - 402.557.6130 156th and Q streets - 402.763.2555 110th St. and W. Maple Rd. - 402.496.1101 Fort Crook Rd. and Hwy 370 - 402.733.8754 84th St. and Tara Plaza - 402.593.0983 Lake Manawa Exit - 712.256.2762 Enjoy awesome appetizers, excellent enchilada’s, fabulous fajitas, seafood specialties, mouthwatering margaritas and much more at La Mesa! Come see why La Mesa has been voted Omaha’s # 1 Mexican Restaurant 19 Years in a Row! Monday-Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

—lamesaomaha.com

ROMEO’S MEXICAN FOOD AND PIZZA - $ 90th and Blondo streets - 402.391.8870 146th St. and W. Center Rd. - 402.330.4160 96th and L streets - 402.331.5656 Galvin and Avery roads - 402.292.2028 29th and Farnam steets - 402.346.1110 Romeo’s is your friendly, family Mexican food and pizza restaurant.

We take real pride in serving our guests generous portions of the freshest, most flavorful dishes made with the finest ingredients available.

Zesty seasonings and the freshest ingredients combine to ensure the ultimate in flavor. Our savory taco meat is prepared every morning at each location. Make sure to try our chimichangas; they’re the best in town.

—romeosomaha.com

DINING GUIDE LEGEND

$=$1-10 • $$=$10-20 • $$$=$20-30 • $$$$=$30+

// 96 //

JULY/AUGUST 2022

SPECIAL DINING CRESCENT MOON ALE HOUSE - $ 3578 Farnam St. - 402.345.1708 Founded in 1996, we’ve grown into Beer Corner USA with the additions of The Huber Haus German Beer Hall, Max and Joe’s Belgian Beer Tavern, and Beertopia—Omaha’s Ultimate Beer Store. With more than 60 beers on tap and Omaha’s best Reuben sandwich, we are a Midtown beerlover’s destination. Hours: MondaySaturday 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Kitchen hours: Monday-Wednesday 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Thursday-Saturday 11 a.m.-midnight.

Closed Sunday.

—beercornerusa.co

RATHSKELLER BIER HAUS-$$ 4524 Farnam St. - 402.991.7724 Rathskeller Bier Haus celebrates daily with German beer, wurst and many other menu items. Within arm’s reach of the Blackstone District and historic Dundee. Rathskeller Bier Haus is our German castle and designed to bring the storied traditions of Bavaria to the beating heart of Omaha’s metro area.

Come enjoy our large outdoor beer garden and four legged friends are welcome. Prost! Open daily 11 a.m.-Late.

—rathskelleromaha.com

GREEK ISLANDS - $ 3821 Center St. - 402.346.1528 Greek cuisine with specials every day at reasonable prices. We are well-known for our gyro sandwiches and salads. We cater and can accommodate a party for 65 guests.

Carry-out and delivery available.

Monday-Thursday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

—greekislandsomaha.com

Omaha

DINING GUIDE

STEAKHOUSES CASCIO’S - $$ 1620 S. 10th St. - 402-345-8313 Fascio’s is Omaha’s No. 1 steakhouse.

We have been serving Omaha for 69 years. We feature steaks, chops, seafood, and Italian specialties. We have seven private party rooms, seating for up to 400 people, and plenty of parking.

—casciossteakhouse.com

THE DROVER RESTAURANT & LOUNGE - $$$ 2121 S. 73rd St. - 402-391-7440

h Steak ouse

Famous for the original Whiskey Steak. Truly a one-of-a-kind Midwestern experience. Excellent food, wine, service, and value. Rare... and very well done. Open MondayFriday 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m., Dinner nightly at 5 p.m.

—droverrestaurant.com

Home of the Whiskey Steak 2022 First Place

@The Drover Restaurant & Lounge | Gift Cards Available 2121 S. 73 St. | (402) 391-7440 | DroverRestaurant.com Open Monday - Friday 11am - 2pm | Dinner nightly from 5pm

ek Dining Gre

2022 First Place

Family Owned Since 1983 CATERING / PARTY ROOM AVAILABLE HOMEMADE, FRESH FOOD, ALWAYS.

3821 Center St. / 402.346.1528 GreekIslandsOmaha.com

DINING GUIDE LEGEND

$=$1-10 • $$=$10-20 • $$$=$20-30 • $$$$=$30+

JULY/AUGUST 2022

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explore.

come and

LE T’S PLAN A ROAD TRIP!

DAYTRI PS I N NE BRA SK A , I OW A , K AN SA S, AN D M I SSOURI

OREGON TRAIL DAYS July 7-10 in Gering and throughout Scottsbluff.

Grammy Award winner “The Time of My Life,” original duo member Billy Medley KINKAIDER BRUNCH BY THE TRAIN IN THE This annual event is one of the oldest is joined by Bucky Heard at the Lied HISTORIC HAYMARKET DISTRICT July 2, 9, community festivals in Nebraska. The Center for Performing Arts for a night of 16, 23, and 30 and Aug. 6, 13, 20, and celebration includes a kickoff barbecue, passionate, legendary, and unmistakably 27 in Lincoln. Every Saturday this summer a car show, a chili cook off, mud righteous ballads. 402. 472. 4747 from 9 a.m.-noon, Nebraska’s Kinkaider volleyball, beer and wine tastings, —liedcenter.org JULY Brewing Co. is all aboard on brunch, serving a horseshoe tournament, carnival up a rotating menu of brunch favorites rides, and free concert Saturday ZOOFEST 49 AT THE ZOOBAR July 8 paired with Devils Gap Jalapeño Vodka night, and more. 308.632.2133. in Lincoln. Celebrating 49 years of Bloody Marys and Mimosas.

—oregontraildays.com “lives blues and soulful music,” the two-night event kicks off Friday with UNCLE SAM JAM! AT OAK LAKE PARK KZUM STRAVINSKY PARK SUMMER headliner Grammy-Award winning blues July 3 in Lincoln. This familyCONCERT SERIES July 7, 14, 21, 28 virtuoso Bobby Rush of “Chicken Heads” JULY friendly event is Lincoln’s official in Lincoln. Every week through acclaim, followed up Saturday night with celebration of Independence the July 28, Stransky Park hits its Memphis soul architect Booker T. Jones, Day, featuring food, music, groove with KZUM and a revolving frontman for Booker T. & the M.G.’s and fireworks, and more. 402.441.7547. lineup of musical stylings by local, a lifetime achievement Grammy-award —lincoln.ne.gov occasionally regional acts. Bottled water winner. Go “soul searching” with the available for purchase and blankets and industry’s finest at Lincoln’s one-andlawn chairs are encouraged. 402.474.5086 only Zoobar. Tickets $35 per night or RED, WHITE, KABOOM! AT COLUMBUS —kzum.org $60 for a weekend pass. 402.435.8754 HIGH SCHOOL July 3 in Columbus. The —zoobar.com biggest Independence Day celebration in Columbus brings event goers a day THE RIGHTEOUS BROTHERS AT THE LIED of live music from Barrel House, with PERFORMING ARTS CENTER July 7 in LUST FOR RUST FEST 2022 July 8 activities, a bouncy house, and more.

Lincoln. Made famous by chart-toppers at Nomads Bar and Kitchen in Fireworks begin at 10pm. 402.564.2769. like “You’ve Lost that Lovin’ Feeling,” Nehawka . Slated as “the Midwest’s —thecolumbuspage.com “Soul & Inspiration,” and “Dirty Dancing’s” (and maybe the country’s) only Classic Car + Truck and Music Festival,” the event promises cold drinks, delicious food, old-school vehicles, and live music with headliner The Downtown Collective, and more. Camping available WHETHER IT’S SOAKING IN A LIVE MUSIC EVENT, Friday night followed by the car show navigating over 130 miles of walking and and concer t Saturday. Attendants biking trails or just enjoying time with age 15 or under pay no admission. friends and family, Lincoln delivers on — eventbr ite.com/e/ lust-for-r ust-festsummertime fun. There really is some2022-tickets-321972547557 thing for everyone, including time spent off the beaten path. Love Lincoln, just as the locals do!

—Lincoln.org/omahamag

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THE 42ND ANNUAL WAYNE CHICKEN SHOW

July 8-10 in Wayne. Feathers fly into

orbit during the annual Wayne Chicken Show, this year’s theme being: “Chicken’s Guide to the Galaxy. The Meaning of Life, the Universe and Egg-rything.” The threeday event include the Wayne Chicken Show Parade, hot wing eating contests, and various other chicken-themed attractions and contests. 402.375.2240 —chickenshow.com

HERITAGE DAYS July 17-22

JULY

17-22

in Alliance. Celebrating 41 years of Alliance heritage and history, this five day event brings carnival rides, various vendors, live musical entertainment, a parade, games, and more. 308.762.5400.

—cityofalliance.net

“WEIRD AL” YANKOVIC AT THE LIED PERFORMING ARTS CENTER July 22 in

Lincoln. Finally returning to the concert

stage after his highly celebrated Strings Attached tour in 2019, the frizzy-haired king of all things strange, punny, and downright absurd, “Weird Al” Yankovic amuses and bewilders audiences once again with his The Unfortunate Return of the Ridiculously Self-Indulgent, Ill-Advised Vanity Tour with an appearance at the Lied Center for Performing Arts. 402.472.4747 —lieadcenter.org

THE 29TH ANNUAL NEBRASKA STAR PARTY

July 24-29 in Valentine. Join fellow

stargazers in a “voyage of discovery” from the incredible astronomical views of Merritt Reservoir’s Snake Campground with observations every night and daytime events including beginner’s field schools, barbecue and pizza lunches, and a brewers' canoe/float down the Niobrara river.

—nebraskastarparty.org

A celebration of all things train and track in Council Bluffs on September 24th!

gorailroaddays.com

THE 2022 OLD WEST BALLOON FEST Aug. 10-13 in Gerring, Scottsbluff, and Mitchell. Hot air balloons color the

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sky of Western Nebraska, captivating aeronauts and spectators alike. The event kicks off with an opening ‘night glow’ at Western Nebraska Community College (including food trucks and other vendors), followed by the National Hot Air Balloon Competition, a craft fair, a cornhole tournament, and the main event: the “mass ascension,” in which 30 hot air balloons take off at once, with 50 additional competition balloons performing a flyby.

—theoldwestballoonfest.com

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FROG FEST 8 AT THE HISTORIC HAYMARKET

Aug. 13 in Lincoln. The newest

iteration of Froggy981’s Frog Fest comes hopping back to the Historic Haymarket with gusto, and with performances

by Dylan Scott, Josh Abbot Band, Morgan Wade, and Dylan Blood, the event is sure to make a huge splash with country music fans. 402.475.4567 —froggy981.com

MIMOSA FEST LINCOLN AT THE ROYAL GROVE Aug. 14 in Lincoln. Touted as

“the Nation’s Largest Mimosa Fest,” the orange juice and bubbly will be flowing in earnest at music venue The Royal Grove “where fans are treated like royalty.” First mimosa is on the house! 402.413.6832 —theroyalgrove.com

THERE’S JUST SOMETHING ABOUT YOU IN LINCOLN, NEBRASKA

LI NC O L N . O R G / O MAHA M AG

Fall in love for the first time or fall in love all over again. Lincoln looks good on you!

DIRTY HEADS: LET’S GET IT KRAKEN AT THE PINEWOOD BOWL THEATER Aug. 14

in

Lincoln.

AUG.

14

Hailing from Huntington Beach, California, reggae altrock outfit Dirty Heads brings the good vibes with their Let’s Get it Kraken tour for an outdoor show among the evergreens, with special guests SOJA, Tribal Seeds, and The Elovaters. 402.904.4444 —pinewoodbowltheater.com

KOOL-AID DAYS Aug. 19-21 at the Adams County Fairgrounds in Hastings.

Celebrate America’s beloved powdered drink mix, which was first concocted in Hastings, with a weekend festival dedicated to all things Kool-Aid, this year’s theme being “Mangonificent.” Events include Kwickest Kool-Aid Drinking Contest, the 5K Fun Run, Kardboard Boat Races, and more. 402.463.8669 —kool-aiddays.com

NEBRASKA STATE FAIR Aug. 26-September 5 at the State Fairgrounds in Grand Island. Participate in traditional fair

activities like livestock exhibits, dirt competitions, and lots of fried food. The fair also includes The Nebraska Lottery Concert Series with live performances by Happy Together, Los Toucans de Tijuana, Brantley Gilbert, Lady A (with Priscilla Block), and comedian and puppeteer extraordinaire Jeff Dunham. 308.382.1620.

—statefair.org

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IOWA

KANSAS

NORTH LIBERTY BLUES & BBQ July 9 at Centennial Park in North Liberty. This

IRVINE’S MUSIC & WINE July 9, 23 and Aug. 20 at Irvine’s Just Beyond Paradise in Lawrence. This family-

free event coordinated by the North Liberty Community Betterment Group features a full day of blues and scrumptious BBQ, with food available starting at 10am, cold pours of Iowa craft beer and live blues-inspired music starting at 11 a.m., and free kids’ bouncehouses inflated at 2 p.m. Performances run through the evening, ending at 10:30 p.m.

—northlibertyblues.org

CAMP EUFORIA July 14-16 in

Lone Tree. The 17th and final Camp

JULY

14-16

Euforia music festival welcomes back festival hosts and founders Eufóquestra and Kim Dawson for one last round of funk, soul, afrobeat, and reggae with Cornmeal, Chicago Afrobeat Project, Heatbox, and Aaron Kamm & the One Drops filling out the headliners. Tickets for a three-day festival pass are $130; twoday festival pass $110; Saturday only $70.

—facebook.com/campeuforia/

HINTERLAND MUSIC FESTIVAL 2022 Aug.

4-7 in St. Charles. Glass Animals, Billy

Strings, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, and Phoebe Bridger headline this 4-day indie rock festival at the Avenue of the Saints Amphitheater in St. Charles, with local vendors providing food, drinks, and merchandise. Festivalgoers can bring a tent and camp on the festival grounds (camping pass required), with shuttles available from Des Moines.

—hinterlandiowa.com

IOWA IRISH FEST Aug. 5-7 at Lincoln Park in Waterloo. Now in its 16th year,

nearly 50,000 Irish proud converge in Lincoln Park for a three-day open-air event celebrating the Midwest’s Irish community with food vendors—including meat pies by Scotsfare Heritage— shopping, traditional music and dance, artist series workshops, rides, games, contests, and more. $15 entry for all three days with V.I.P. tickets also available.

—iowairishfest.com

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owned winery welcomes guests to their sprawling, green acreage to enjoy locally-sourced wines, tacos by Lago Vista, and live music by Vaughn Cowden Jully 9, John L. Keck July 23, and Matthew Mulnix Aug. 20. 785.806.9749 —irvinejustbeyondparadise.com

KICKER COUNTRY STAMPEDE AT THE HEARTLAND July 14-16 in

BREAKAWAY MUSIC FESTIVAL Aug. 5-6 at the Azura Amphitheater in Bonner Springs. Electronic DJ duo Alexander

“Alex” Pall and Andrew “Drew” Taggart, more famously known as The Chainsmokers, headline with DJ Illenium in addition to an absolutely stacked line-up of EDM performers. Tickets start at $99 with VIP, Ultra VIP, and travel packages available. Official shuttles run from Downtown Kansas City on the hour starting 3:30pm on Friday and 2:30 p.m. Saturday.

—brea k away festiva l .com /venues/ kansas-city

SOUTH DAKOTA

Topeka. Heartland Motorsports

Park hosts three days of music and camping, headlined by country music sensation Jake Owen joined by nationally acclaimed acts Locash, Drake White, and Runaway June, among others.

—countrystampede.com

JULY

06

STRFKR July 6 at ICON Events +

DaDa Gastropub in Sioux Falls.

Indie rock band STRKFKR brings their unique, synth-heavy flavor of rock to one of downtown Sioux Falls most stylish venues. 605.444.4266 —iconsiouxfalls.com

MISSOURI

SUMMER SMASH SMALL BUSINESS VENDOR EVENT July 15-17 at the Indepen-

dence Center in Independence. Local vendors gather to showcase their wares, products, and services in a rally for shopping local and supporting small business.

—mseventsworldwide.com

KC FRINGE FESTIVAL July 15-31 in Kansas City. This 16-day festival represents the

largest celebration of arts and culture in the Kansas City metro, bursting at the seams with 277 performances, 13 venues of and a veritable army of performing and visual arts features, performers, and creators—including local, national, and international attendees. 816.200.2788.

—kcfringe.org

GOO GOO DOLLS Aug. 1 at the Star-

light Theatre in Kansas City. Originally hailing from Buffalo, New York, the Grammy Award-nominated alternative rock outfit the Goo Goo Dolls bring their impassioned vocals and bleeding chords to one of KC’s most unique and charming venues. 816.363.7827 —kcstarlight.com

EVENT TIMES AND DETAILS MAY CHANGE. Visit omahamagazine.com for complete listings. Check with venue or event organizer to confirm.

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NOT FUNNY // COLUMN BY OTIS TWELVE // PHOTOGRAPH BY BILL SITZMANN

ARS GRATIA ARTIS

V

ery few of us regular folks know the difference between chiaroscuro and a smudge left behind by the gravy-smeared thumb of that clinically outof-control nephew who ran amok in the house last Thanksgiving, on that rectangular painting of the ruins of the Roman forum we bought at the “Starving Artists Sale” executed by a psychopath with an overloaded palette knife that we hung over the Scotchgard-and-plastic-cushion-cover-protected sofa in the living room because the artwork was exactly as advertised—“sofa sized.”

“I may not know art,” we say. “But I know how big a sofa is.”

Likewise the horizon and vanishing points, alla prima, wet on wet, or au premier coup rarely concern us when we are on the lookout for an artwork that matches the split complementary pastel color scheme of the faux-marble entryway to the McMansion or a sculpture that matches the scale of the vestibule without too many dangerous sharp edges and hopefully lacking the subtle burnt metal scent of bad arc welding.

“Art for art’s sake,” we say. “But can I get a Venus with arms still attached?”

Do not be discouraged. True, fine art is an intimidating concept. Just remember, “art” is more than just good taste. It’s good taste with a bit of jargon tacked on. If you know a bit of the shop talk and follow a few simple rules, you too can be an art maven.

1. Do not buy any art work labeled “sofa sized” or “resists mildew.”

2. Never hang pictures of politicians in the living room. Note: Dead politicians are an exception to the rule if they passed away more than a century ago and are not German.

3. Abstract art is always a good idea so long as no sense at all can be made of the piece.

Beware abstract art that people might comment on. That always leads to trouble.

4. If a statue is supposed to be Roman or Greek, do not buy the concrete versions.

Note: Garden gnomes can be an exception if they are obviously a witty, dry commentary on the futility of life.

5. Gargoyles are never acceptable on suburban homes.

6. There really are “starving artists” but they have nothing to do with those traveling arena high pressure sales. Note: If you actually encounter a starving artist it is advisable to give them money rather than food. You don’t want to know what they eat.

7. Porch flags are not art.

8. Clever, or inspirational sayings painted on wood panels to be hung near the refrigerator are not art unless they are in Latin or incorrectly rendered Kanji.

9. Family portraits are not art unless they were rendered in egg-tempera paint by a guy named Caravaggio or the equivalent more that 400 years ago. Otherwise, restrict such pictures to stairwells and rec rooms.

10. At all costs, whatever the “art” you put on your walls, for the love of God, do not use French Provincial gilt frames.

There, now you are ready to go out there and buy some art. You know what you like, right? It was either Vincent van Gogh, or American impressionist Bob Ross on his TV show who once said, “Let’s build a happy little cloud. Let’s build some happy little trees.” That’s what art is all about. And remember, when Michelangelo’s finished his “Last Judgement” behind the altar in the Sistine Chapel, some clowns came in and painted pants on the naked people. That brings us to our final Rule of Art: 11. Art should never include pants.

Otis Twelve hosts the radio program Morning Classics with Otis Twelve on 90.7 KVNO, weekday mornings from 6-10 a.m. Visit kvno.org for more information.

JULY/AUGUST

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