/July2011

scene the

Arts and entertainment for the Eastside

July 2011

Bellevue Royalty

Political, bilingual, ambitious: Princess Isabella Figueroa will reign in the next generation

Dance

An aspiring choreographer emerges from Pacific Northwest Ballet

Summer must-haves What to wear, what to barbecue – your complete guide to the season

Inside scoop: dine

| wine | arts | fashion | lifestyles

THE scene

2 | thebellevuescene.com | july 2011

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the editorial note

scene july 2011 | thebellevuescene.com | 3

Greetings from a dancer-journalist!

Dear reader, As someone who chooses to spend her time in either a newsroom or a dance studio, I can tell you firsthand how important it is to have multiple interests.

Growing up, I went to school during the day and to ballet or modern-dance class in the evenings and weekends. In college, some Photo by Chad Coleman of my professors tried to make me choose between my interests, but they never could. In the morning, I was in tights and a leotard, doing a grande allegro combination across the floor. By the afternoon, I was laying out pages for my college magazine.

I always knew that my path through life would not be traditional, and that was OK with me. I didn’t move to New York to dance or audition for Julliard as some of my friends did. Nor did I chose to move to Washington D.C. to be a hard-news journalist like some of my other friends.

Whenever I wondered if I should have stuck to only one thing, my mom would always remind me of Rita Moreno – you may remember her as Anita from “West Side Story.” She’s the only Hispanic person, and one of very few performers, to have earned an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and a Tony award.

While her goals are not mine specifically, I aspire to be like Rita in her ability to never limit herself, to live by all her passions.

Now, I’m a dancer for a nonprofit organization and a journalist who gets to cover many arts, entertainment and lifestyle stories. While I’m certainly busy, it’s a balance that’s right for me. It’s a similar story for several of the people in our July issue.

Take our cover girl, Isabella Figueroa, who accomplishes everything from pageants, to school academics, to getting youth and Hispanics more involved in politics.

Bellevue man Robert Dugoni was once only a lawyer by trade, but, in following his love for writing, he’s become a New York Times bestselling author. Finally, Eastsider Sean Rollofson is not only a dancer with Pacific Northwest Ballet, but an aspiring choreographer and director of an Eastside program to benefit youth. These three people inspire me in the Rita Moreno way, and lend their diverse talents and creativity to Bellevue.

It’s the rich experiences we find in each of our interests, as spread out or varied as they may be, that make our lives here so worthwhile. I hope you get to pursue all your own passions this summer, Eastside.

the

4 july guide

Warmer-weather living

7 bellevue author

4

7

Follow us on Twitter@bellevuescene

9 cover story

Isabella Figueroa, Miss Hispanic Seafair princess

13 Ballet

9

From corps de ballet to choreography

13

15 comedy

All-American Steve Byrne

18 Style watch

15

18

The Scene is a publication of the Bellevue Reporter.

2700 Richards Rd. Suite 201, Bellevue WA, 98005.

425.391.0363 thebellevuescene.com

Publisher Janet Taylor Managing Editor Craig Groshart

Gabrielle Nomura, Assistant Editor gnomura@bellevuereporter.com

Robert Dugoni writes New York Times bestsellers

Assistant Editor Gabrielle Nomura

‘Ask Rose’ takes a look at style

Contributing Writers Eric Degerman, Rose Dennis, Andy Perdue and Heija Nunn.

Design and Layout Tek Chai and Gabrielle Nomura Photographer Chad Coleman Advertising Nola Palmer, Account Executive 425.677.4975 Advertising 425.453.4270 A division of

4 | thebellevuescene.com | july 2011 Story By Gabrielle Nomura

FASHIONISTAS Pops of color

As the weather gets warmer, girls just want to have fun. Social media queen, Mollie Ruiz-Hopper, knows it all too well. Deborah Lippman’s nail lacquer in carefree coral bears the same name as the beloved ’80s song, and gets the Seattle style expert’s vote for the season. $16, nordstrom.com.

Shades

Alyson Andrews, marketing coordinator for Gene Juarez, will stay sleek and chic in her Halogen Oversized Sunglasses. They’re a “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” shape for a modernday girl. $68, nordstrom.com.

An Eastsider ’s guide to the Summer season

This photo, “Meeshs Barbeque-10.” is copyright © 2010 Vegansoldier and made available under a Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 2.0 license.

Road, recommends picking up some of his handcrafted hamburger patties or steaks for the grill this summer. Even a simple hamburger tastes better from the butcher.

The flavor

The Maui ribs or Maui chicken sold at Golden Steer are inspired by Dick’s mother’s homemade sauce, “Mama Norma’s” unique blend of secret ingredients that can’t be beat works wonders as a marinade with poultry, pork and beef.

Sun hat

Like true seasonal style experts, the girls will both be sporting floppy straw hats to keep the sun out of their eyes. Fashion meets function. Starting at $28, nordstrom.com.

Feast

For the experienced barbecue chef up to the challenge, try a whole pig for a July feast or luau.

Wedges

Andrews recommends getting the look for less with Dolce Vita

The link

Bratwurst, Italian, homemade hot links – Dick’s selection of sausage links are great for smoking or grilling.

Cork Wedge Sandals. $30, target.com.

The stuffing

Dresses

For casual, go with Andrew’s pick, an oh-so Photo courtesy of The Bellevue Reporter. comfortable tie-dye maxi with a full-spectrum sunscreen that blocks dress, $27.80. forever21.com, or absorbs all UV rays – yep, even if it’s a And, for a look that goes from day to gray Pacific Northwest day. night, try on Ruiz-Hopper’s favorite Quinn Dress, $425, toryburch.com.

Hydrate For more style tips, visit mollieinseattle. com and crushingonclothes.com.

HEALTH

Take that mosquitoes!

Insect repellent, particularly with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus, is your friend. Wear as much clothing as the warm weather will allow. Avoid being outdoors during the times when mosquitoes are peskiest, dusk and dawn.

SPF

must-haves

Here’s the 411 on ultraviolet light: It consists of UVA, UVB, and UVC rays.

The UVA rays cause tanning and wrinkling, while UVB rays cause sunburn, aging, wrinkling, and skin cancer.

Even though we’re starved for sun here, protect your skin

Replenish your thirsty body with a regular schedule of having a glass of water. Drink several glasses on an empty stomach in the morning to replenish what your body lost overnight and continue with a glass of water every two hours.

Food

Don’t forget to cook, clean, chill and separate – rules that will help prevent food-borne illnesses in the summer, which become more common for a variety of reasons (pasta salad left out on Fourth of July, for example). Use a thermometer when cooking to ensure food is adequately heated and always use a cooler for picnic foods.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

For more information, go to www.cdc.gov.

BBQ

The classic

John Dick, owner of Golden Steer Meats on Bel-Red

Finally, Dick recommends his stuffed pork chop made with homemade stuffing, bread, onion, celery and chicken broth.

Golden Steer Meats: 15255 BelRed Rd., Bellevue, 425-746-1910, goldensteer.net.

Men’s fashion

Saddle Shoes / White Sneakers

People tend to throw out footwear rules in the summer, which isn’t a good thing. Flip-flops are for the beach, boat shoes for boats, etc.

For daily wear, grab some suede bucks to saddles, says Angelo Spagnolo, blogger for eyefivestylecom. To keep it casual, go with classic white sneakers from Converse. $50, converse.com.

Wayfarers

When it comes to shades, stick with the classics. Colored frames and knockoffs are for kids. Spagnolo endorses Ray-Ban Wayfarer’s in black or tortoise shell only, $145 at ray-ban.com.

On the higher end, check out Super and Moscot. [ more Must-haves on page 5 ]

must-haves

july 2011 | thebellevuescene.com | 5 peach halves on the grill, then drizzle with a bit of truffle honey, and garnish with fresh basil?

[ MUST-HAVES from page 4 ]

Tailored shorts

Shorts don’t have to be lazy. Spagnolo loves his pleated linen shorts from Ovadia & Sons. The light fabric is perfect for the summer heat, but the cuff and pleat means they can be dressed up as easily as down (just add a white button-up). $145, ovadiaandsons.com

Gelato, ice cream and granita

These frozen desserts offer an array of flavors, from intense fruit to decadent caramel, and my newest favorite – decadent Nutella Swirl gelato.

Linen shirts

Madras accessories

Purists will say madras (a fabric, not pattern, often seen in brightly colored plaids,) should only be worn once the mercury has hit 75-degrees. That time may not have come quite yet here in the Northwest, but it will any day now, so get prepared. In more temperate climates, Spagnolo suggests keeping the madras to accessories such as ties, bow ties or pocket squares.

For more style tips, go to eyefivestyle.com.

BEAT THE HEAT

Marina Park

There are definitely larger public parks on the Eastside, but Marina Park’s waterfront location and panoramic views of Moss Bay and the west coast of Lake Washington make it a local favorite for warmer months, offering swimming for kids (no lifeguard on duty) and a great picnic spot. Restrooms are available at the marina and parking is free for three hours until 5 p.m., when there’s a $1 charge. Located at 25 Lakeshore Plz Dr., Kirkland.

Water Spray Playground

From spitting frogs, spouting orcas and squirting clams, the playground provides fun for all levels of physical abilities while engaging children and grown-ups in water play. The playground provides year-round enjoyment, and sprays potable, low-volume water every day from 8 a.m.-8 p.m Memorial Day through Labor Day, at the Crossroads International Park entrance. Located at 16000 N.E. 10th St., Bellevue.

Bellevue’s Meydenbauer Beach Park

Small groups will enjoy the lovely scenery of this park, located on the shores of Meydenbauer Bay, an ideal setting for children’s birthday parties and other small gatherings with a picnic area (25 people max) with three tables, fishing dock, play area, restrooms, paved pathways and a sandy swimming beach with a designated swimming area, seasonal 50-meter swim lane and seasonal lifeguards on duty noon-7 p.m. the last Saturday in June through Labor Day. Located at 419 98th Ave. N.E., Bellevue.

Lake Sammamish State Park

It may not have the fanciest facilities, but Lake Sammamish State Park is a staple for many Eastsiders.

Sip on a beer and cook up some hotdogs and hamburgers

Local products

Photo courtesy of The Bellevue Reporter in one of the park’s grills (adults love that alcohol is allowed here.) It’s 512 acres with paved trials for running or walking the puppies on, in addition to playground, shelters, picnic tables and swimming. Located at 20606 S.E. 56th St., Issaquah.

Gene Coulon Memorial Park

Dog-lovers will be sad that their best friends aren’t allowed here, but this is still considered to be the number-one picnicking spot for many locals with spots for grilling, a kiddie park as well as two restaurants on the water, Ivars and Kidd Valley. It’s definitely a favorite and the crowds that show up reflect that, and make for excellent people-watching. Located at 1201 Lake Washington Blvd. N., Renton.

For more information on Eastside parks, go to www. ci.bellevue.wa.us, www. ci.issaquah.wa.us and rentonwa.gov.

EATS

Peaches

They’re such a versatile food for this time of year, says Chef Carol Dearth owner of Sizzleworks cooking school on Northeast 24th Street.

Nosh on them wrapped with prosciutto together with a bit of gorgonzola cheese; in salad with dark greens, green onions, shredded chicken and a light dressing; or peach buttermilk ice cream.

ANYTHING grilled

In the Northwest, we tend to grill year-round, but it is truly enjoyable in summer, when we can gather around the grill, cook our entire meal there, and consume al fresco, Dearth says. Speaking of which, how about popping some

The blessed bounty of the Northwest – seafood, produce, poultry and Photo courtesy of Sizzleworks. lamb, great beef, and of course, the wines. We have great neighborhood bakeries and local dairy products, Dearth says.

Caffe Shakerato

Dearth loves caffe shakerato now thanks to an Italian friend. She says it’s amazingly refreshing and incredibly easy. For you espresso lovers, pour a shot of freshly brewed espresso over ice in a cocktail shaker; add a spoonful of sugar (if you like). Shake and strain into a martini glass. Ahhh.

For more information about Sizzleworks cooking school, go to thesizzleworks.com; 425-644-4285 at 14111 N.E. 24th Bellevue.

Research Volunteers Wanted . . .

If you have:

• Sun damaged skin • Acne • Skin with fine lines • Sun damaged spots on the back of the hand Call: 425-283-1795 or e-mail: studies@clarisonic.com If you qualify you will be compensated for your time.

499863

Light fabrics like linen allow you to keep cleaned up without overheating. A white linen shirt is as essential as it gets for summer menswear, but Spagnolo also recommends picking up an office-appropriate linen shirt for summer work, $139, shopwharf.com

THE scene

6 | thebellevuescene.com | july 2011

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the works

july 2011 | thebellevuescene.com | 7

Show don’t tell: How to write a bestselling novel Bellevue author, Robert Dugoni, writes legal thrillers that come alive with authentic details and characters who readers care about

C

BY GABRIELLE NOMURA | PHOTOS BY CHAD COLEMAN

reativity is what has helped Robert Dugoni switch from full-time lawyer to New York Times bestselling author – his ability to make words come alive on a page.

Of course, the process Dugoni goes through to produce creative writing is sometimes a little embarrassing for his family. The dad, husband and Bellevue resident needs to be reminded that when he’s driving his kids or he’s at the grocery store, everyone can hear the dialogue that’s going on in his head. Once again, he’s been thinking about a book he’s working on. Out loud.

“It’s a fine line between being a writer and being in an insane asylum,” says Dugoni, author of such hit legal thrillers as “The Jury Master,” and the recently released “Murder One.” He’s worked hard to make his law profession a parttime gig, and writing, his number-one passion, into a

main source of income. Now, he only goes to his Seattle law firm a couple of days a week. Most of the time, he’s up by 6:30 a.m. or earlier (he’s more creative in morning), goes to his home office, puts the “Do not disturb” sign on the inside of the door (“It is a reminder for me,” he says) and works on crafting his novels.

It’s here, in the privacy of his own office, where the words that he’s typed on his PC come alive. He’ll usually pick up a book first and read a few pages, especially Stephen King’s “The Green Mile” or perhaps a Pat Conroy book. He never reads novels in his own genre, lest it affect his own writing “voice.”

Once he finds a good flow, he lets his imagination take off.

He’ll even act out the different characters he’s creating because it makes it easier to get a feel for the narrative. It’s

Robert Dugoni, New York Times bestselling author, bases his legal dramas in the Northwest, where he lives, writes and practices law.

a one-man show where Dugoni plays the hero, his lead character (David Sloane), the bad guy and everyone in between.

Some authors say their characters are spiritually in the room with them while they’re writing. It may sound weird, but having a willingness to allow the characters to come to life is what makes for fresh, engaging and authentic writing, he says. An aspiring novelist must be open to it.

“If you are, then your characters will show you the way,” Dugoni says. “They are smarter than you, they do things that make sense. Your characters can be funny, even if you’re not.”

It’s this type of process that advanced writers try to achieve–the ability to show instead of tell; to let a scene or character evolve in a reader’s mind’s eye cinematically. It’s this technique that gives Dugoni’s book authenticity.

The author sets up the guidelines, but it’s his characters who create the story, seemingly of their own accord.

Writing based on familiar places, things and ideas is one way of achieving this. And that’s just what Dugoni does, using Bellevue and the greater-Seattle area as a narrative backdrop.

When Dugoni moved to the Pacific Northwest 12 years ago years ago from San Francisco, so did his character, David Sloane, the lawyer who can’t lose.

McCormick & Schmick’s, downtown Bellevue Library, Overlake Hospital, Madison Park, University Avenue and Marysville have all shown up in his books, which are also loaded with Seattle locations and restaurants. David Sloane hangs out a lot at the Tin Room bar in Burien. Often, Dugoni changes a name or detail about a real place.

One woman who read his 2010 book, “Bodily Harm,” about a malpractice courtroom drama centered on the death of a young child, emailed the author afterward.

“She kept trying to look up Mossylog, Washington, but of course, it’s really Mossyrock,” Dugoni says. Then of course, there’s the fact that this lawyer-turned-novelist is able to portray the courtroom from experience.

But Dugoni says his trial scenes are not merely successful because of his legal background. It also takes an ear for dialogue that natural story-tellers are born with.

He dislikes the perception that he’s simply another lawyer trying his hand at novels. It’s not true. He says, in reality: “I was a writer who just became a lawyer for a while.”

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Northwest Wine: bargain whites

BY ANDY PERDUE AND ERIC DEGERMAN, WINE PRESS NORTHWEST

With our weather finally warming up, we are thinking more about crisp, delicious white wines and how they’ll taste with fresh seafood, picnic fare and backyard dinners. Here are a few delicious Northwest white wines (and a rosé) priced at $15 and under.

Mount Baker Vineyards & Winery 2009 Pinot Gris, Washington, $8: A rather austere nose of Asian pear, yellow grapefruit, starfruit and dry popcorn transcends into a drink of more pears, lemon custard and a fleshy Gala apple. Late acidity and a lick of slate make this a nice summertime quaffer.

Waterbrook Winery 2009 Pinot Gris, Columbia Valley, $11: This white wine opens with a huge greeting of tropical fruit aromas, followed by apple blossom and talcum powder. The palate brings more appealing tropical fruit, including passion fruit. A bit of sheen adds complexity, as does the finish of citrus pith.

Claar Cellars NV White Bluffs Busty Blush Rosé, Columbia Valley, $12: A tasty and fruity pink made from Sangiovese, it’s filled with a big cherry pie nose, hints of strawberry taffy, honey, apricot and a whiff of smoked charcuterie. There’s better balance on the palate than one might think, leaning toward pie cherries and cranberry. It brings the acidity you’d expect from the Italian variety and some charming tannins.

Firesteed Cellars 2008 Riesling, Oregon, $12: Here marks just the second vintage of Riesling for owner Howard Rossbach and his winemaker, Bryan Croft. And yet it already ranks among the largest productions of this variety in Oregon. It’s crafted with a mind on Alsace as the focus is on Granny Smith apple,

slate, minerality and lots of petrol. The sugar is balanced at 1.3%, and it shows only in the finish with a lick of Lemonhead candy.

Dusted Valley Vintners 2009 Boomtown Pinot Gris, Washington, $13: Owners Corey Braunel and Chad Johnson continue to craft delicious and affordable wines in Walla Walla.

It’s full of fruit and acidity with a theme of lime, gooseberry, lychee, jasmine starfruit, lemongrass and honeysuckle. Serve with turkey breast or a chicken salad sandwich.

Kyra Wines 2009 Evergreen Vineyard Pinot Gris, Columbia Valley, $13: The grapes for this wine come from one of Washington’s most important Riesling vineyards, located near George. It’s a dry drink of quince, Texas pink grapefruit, pears and Jonagold apple. Serve with cracked crab.

Desert Wind Winery 2008 Desert Wind Vineyard Semillon, Wahluke Slope, $15: Barrel fermentation provides aromas of fig, apple butter, dried apricot, hot peach pie and alyssum blossom. There are more signs of the wood in the weighty palate with the continuation of rich fig and nuttiness, and the arrival of citrusy acidity and a sprig of mint lift the entire package. Enjoy with barbecued pork.

San Juan Vineyards 2009 Siegerrebe, Puget Sound, $15: Vines now in their second decade yield notes of lemon-lime, Jonagold apples, fresh pineapple, a peach shake and a dusty yellow rose. It’s pear, peach and passion fruit in a dry style on the palate. Grapefruit bitters, starfruit and a slaty finish should make this a good foil for briny oysters.

For more information, go to www.winepressnw.com.

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the

{PRINCES She may be in the Miss Hispanic Seafair Royal Court, but Isabella Figueroa is more than a beauty icon. This Eastsider represents the influence and political power of the fastest-growing U.S. minority.

Story by Gabrielle Nomura | photos by Chad Coleman

I

sabella Figueroa has been waiting for 2012 all her life. It’s not simply because the outgoing teenager will finally be spreading her wings, living it up in the dorms of the University of San Francisco. Well, that could be part of it. But the real excitement next year will come with a long-awaited ballot – her first one. The Interlake High School senior will finally be eligible to vote.

Figueroa’s December birthday was agonizing last year. “Issy,” as her friends call her, turned 18 just after the November midterm elections. During the midterm elections, it may have been a month before her birthday, but she still jumped at the chance to see President Barack Obama speak at Sen. Patty Murray’s rally at University of Washington. Figueroa idolizes people like Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, and really, any woman who takes the initiative to be in politics. She’s even met a few in the Pacific Northwest: Murray, Gov. Chris Gregoire, Sen. Maria Cantwell and Rep. Phyllis Gutierrez Kenney – who Figueroa says, has been “a great friend and role model.”

Figueroa still remembers when she heard that Sotomayor had been appointed as the first Hispanic and third female Supreme Court Justice. Her mom sent her a text at school (“I had asked her to keep me updated in class,” Figueroa says). The teen says she was thrilled to see another Hispanic female rise to such a powerful position.

But Figueroa was well-informed and passionate about politics long before Sotomayor’s appointment in 2009.

She signed up her first person to vote as a middle-school student with a clipboard, volunteering for the Washington State Democrats. At summer festivals in Seattle, the short seventh-grade girl wasn’t shy about asking passersby if they were registered to vote. Giving them bipartisan pamphlets on candidates, she would even fill out their registration forms after asking them to take out

cover

july 2011 | thebellevuescene.com | 11

SA DE BELLEVUE } their driver’s licenses.

“All they had to do was sign their name,” says Figueroa who remembers how jealous she was. It was frustrating being too young to take part in democracy.

A passion for politics may seem like it would more likely lend itself to men who wear suits and ties. However, it’s this passion, including involvement in Junior State of America (JSA); a national, nonpartisan, political debate organization; that’s landed Figueroa in a tiara and sash.

As a princess in the Miss Hispanic Seafair Royal Court, and first-runner up to Queen Verónica Quintero’s crown, Figueroa received a $1,000 scholarship, as well as the Highest GPA award for high school students and the People’s Choice $100 award. Not bad for her first pageant, especially considering that as governor of her JSA chapter, which gives teens peer-to-peer education on various facets of the political spectrum, she’s used to being the one behind-thescenes instead of being poised, polished and camera-ready.

Michelle Font, director of the scholarship program, says it was hard for the other pageant organizers to believe that a confident, well-spoken woman such as Figueroa was only a high school student. Many of the other contestants, including Queen Quintero, are college-age.

Each young woman competing in the Miss Hispanic Seafair Scholarship Program for Women attends workshops in public speaking, performance, modeling, etiquette and grooming before the June coronation.

The pageant is meant to help young women become leaders who represent Washington’s Hispanic community. During the royal court’s reign, the princesses and queen attend events, such as the Hispanic Seafair Festival July 31 at Seattle Center, and carry out their platforms in the community.

It makes sense that Figueroa would rise up as a fresh face to be admired. Her pageant sash may read “First Alternate” but it should really say “Right Now.” That’s what Figueroa represents – the current times, including a population whose influence cannot be understated now and in the years to come.

Bellevue’s Hispanic population of 8,545 people has increased almost 50 percent compared to 10 years ago. On a national scale, Hispanics are the largest minority, accounting for 16 percent of the total population.

By 2050, people of Spanish-speaking origin will constitute 30 percent of the U.S. population, nearly doubling in size from today.

Why is Spanish such a recommended language to learn? Because of statistics like this (and because young bilingual people like Figueroa are the next generation of leaders).

The terms “Hispanic” or “Latino” refer to persons who trace their origin or descent to Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba, Spanish-speaking Central and South America countries and other Spanish cultures, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Origin can be considered as the heritage, nationality group, lineage, or country of the person or the person’s parents or ancestors before their arrival in the U.S. People who self-identify as Hispanic or Latino may be of any race.

Figueroa says the growth of the Hispanic community is not merely through illegal immigration. Her Hispanic neighbors who live near the Microsoft campus and work in many of the Eastside technology industries are proof of that, she says.

“You need to know Spanish in a lot of powerful countries these days,” Figueroa says. “Hispanics, who are often bilingual, are hired by big companies such as Boeing and Microsoft because we can relate to different cultures and because of our influence.”

But while they may growing as a population, when it comes time to lend

their voices to important decisions regarding the local and national community, Hispanics are underrepresented. It’s something Figueroa feels passionate about changing.

“Many Hispanics I know don’t vote,” Figueroa says. “They think it’s just one vote, it doesn’t matter.”

But it does.

A Pew Hispanic Center survey shows that the number of Latinos eligible to vote went from 13 million in 2000 to 21 million in 2010. However, only 31 percent of Latinos cast a ballot in the midterm elections, compared with nearly 49 percent of whites and 44 percent of blacks.

Organizers for the fledgling National Tequila Party Movement, which describes itself as nonpartisan, say they aim to make Hispanics a powerful force in next year’s elections.

That specific mission, as well as making Hispanics better-informed and more likely to vote, will surely be carried out if young people like Figueroa have anything to do with it.

For her platform, which she’ll put into action this summer, Figueroa will be a guest teacher in King County summer school programs to teach children about understanding their U.S. rights. They’ll learn civic engagement and how the government works with fun projects like getting permission to build a garden in a local park, then doing the planting.

In the fall, Figueroa will pursue a dual degree program at the University of San Francisco where she will earn an undergraduate degree in political science and a master’s in teaching.

Figueroa says going to college is step one of becoming a role model for other Hispanics and women of color.

“It’s about showing them that I can do it, so they can do it, too,” Figueroa says.

“I’m so lucky that college was never out of the question for me, but it is for many girls. I hope other people realize it’s not about the crown and the sash, it’s about what I’m doing that matters most.”

And what she hopes to do is show other young people like her that they literally can do anything. Figueroa says she’s never felt held back for any reason, certainly not because of her race or gender. “Unstoppable” may be a more accurate way to describe Figueroa by those who know her best.

“I’m looking forward to seeing what she does,” Font says. “Perhaps she will one day be our first Presidenta Latina. Even that, would not surprise me.”

El arte y la joyería de créditos: Artists from Bellevue Arts Museum’s “The Mysterious Content of Softness” exhibit were featured in this story including Angela Ellsworth’s work “Seer Bonnets: A Continuing Offense” (table of contents) and Lacey Jane Roberts’ “We Couldn’t Get in. We Couldn’t Get Out“ (cover and inside spread).

Figueroa’s jewelry is by Beto Yarce, Cintli Fine Mexican Jewelry.

the scene

12 | thebellevuescene.com | july 2011

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the arts

julyl 2011 | thebellevuescene.com | 13

FROM CORPS CHOREOGRAPHER to

Getting ahead in a top ballet company like PNB is no easy task, but Eastsider Sean Rollofson’s initiative and leadership set him apart.

Story by Gabrielle Nomura and photos by Chad Coleman.

W

hile ballet and ’90s grunge may not normally go together, the melody of Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” can be heard from the lobby of Pacific Northwest Ballet’s Phelps Center.

But there is no greasy hair, Dr. Martens boots or motheaten flannels here – only fresh-faced young women and men with perfect posture. In place of baggy shirts and tattered jeans, clothing is tight against the young ballerinas’ slender forms, from the black Lycra of their leotards, to the satin ribbons tied against their ankles, to their high, coiled hair buns.

The sound blasting from the stereo in Studio E. may conjure a dirty mosh pit, but the dancers move with graceful leaps and pirouettes. This is how they do their version of rocking out – not by head-banging, but by throwing themselves into the art of ballet.

Eight of the dancers run out to the center of the space with graceful urgency, their fast footwork keeping time to where the chorus goes: “Here we are now. Entertain us.”

The fluidity of their arms, their port de bras, never alludes to the difficulty and effort of their movement or the lessthan traditional music they’re dancing too.

It’s a PNB rehearsal. But instead of Stravinsky or Tchaikovsky, it’s a violin cover of Kurt Cobain. Instead of company dancers, it’s the highest-level students in the PNB school. And instead of a seasoned choreographer, it’s Sean Rollofson, a second-year corps de ballet dancer and Bellevue resident.

At 22, Rollofson is hardly older than many of the dancers in the cast of his ballet, “Innertwined,” which includes

Clockwise: (top) PNB corps de ballet dancer Sean Rollofson rehearses with the cast of his ballet, “Innertwined.” (Right) Rollofson and Harrison Monaco support Hannah Wilcox. (center) Rollofson was born in Redmond and lives in Bellevue.

sections with Nirvana and Muse covers.

“I wanted to use real music that people actually listen to,” he says.

Rollofson picked out the music, the costumes (black tights for each dancer, and then a green or purple or steely blue leotard), and the professionaldivision students he wanted to work with (his “team,” as he calls them).

Athletic, dynamic and with contemporary flair and attitude – the movement Rollofson creates is similar to how he dances. Throughout the hour and-a-half rehearsal, he drills his team to get each part of the dance, from the ensemble, to the two soloist couples and main pas de deux (dance for two) couple, just as he’d imagined it.

“The higher up on her thigh you grab her, the higher you’ll be able to flip her up,” says Rollofson as he flings 20-year-old Hannah Wilcox upside-down; her partner, Harrison Monaco, 19, watches and listens. “Now you try.”

After setting Wilcox down, Rollofson jumps from the male role to demonstrating the ballerina’s part, going “en pointe” in his Puma sneakers.

After 35 hours of rehearsal time, off and on since December, Rollofson finally got to present his ballet at PNB’s end-of-year “Next Step” performance June 18. This rare opportunity allows company members to sign up to be the ones behind-the-scenes as opposed to on stage.

Volunteering to choreograph for “Next Step” gave the Eastsider a chance to finally create movement instead of perform it (something he’s always been interested in). But more importantly, it gave him a chance to make his mark

outside the corps de ballet – the large ensemble that all dancers must start out in.

“I love to create things,” Rollofson says.

His passion for creating applies to more than just choreography. Last year, Rollofson started his own charity, a local version of the Make-a-Wish Foundation called Jojo’s Friends (jojosfriends.com).

He’d love to continue making dances, and perhaps, even become skilled enough to where he could create new works for the company.

“Choreography can definitely give company dancers a chance to stand out if they go about it in the right way,” says Nicholas Ade, principal of PNB’s Bellevue school and a former company member.

It certainly has worked wonders for retired principal dancers Olivier Wevers, who choreographs work for his own company Whim W’Him, and Paul Gibson, who’s created “The Piano Dance,” among other pieces, for PNB. Corps de ballet member Kiyon Gaines has also gained recognition for his ballets, and has been commissioned by companies such as Evergreen City Ballet and Spectrum Dance Theatre.

Rollofson admires their accomplishments. He’s eager to prove himself, not only as a new dance-maker, but as a skilled technician who excels at the small jumps, petite [more PNB on page 14 ]

the scene

14 | thebellevuescene.com | july 2011 [PNB from page 13 ]

allegro, and loves to perform.

He’s had featured roles as the Harlequin in “Nutcracker” as well as an Acolyte in Jean-Christophe Maillot’s “Roméo et Juliette.” But some of his dreamcome-true roles would be Puck in “Midsummer Night’s Dream” (which he’s understudied before), as well as roles in “In the Middle, Somewhat Elevated” and “Red Angels.”

A challenge to earning these roles, and getting to that level in the company, he says, is proving himself to his coworkers – some of whom have watched him grow up.

“I remember when Ariana Lallone (principal dancer who retired in June) was my mom and I played Fritz in ‘Nutcracker,’” Rollofson says.

He was 8-years-old at the time and getting paid $300 to be in a professional production was the coolest thing that had ever happened (unfortunately, his mom wouldn’t let him take one of his three $100 bills to school to show off to his friends).

Rollofson danced the role of Fritz for three years, as well as practically every other child part there was for a boy within PNB’s repertory. He went through all eight levels of the school and completed the professional division program. He became an apprentice in 2008 and was promoted to the corps de ballet with his buddies Eric Hipolito Jr. (who’s also his roommate) and Andrew Bartee in 2009.

Rollofson may still be perceived as that mischie-

vous boy Fritz or the bug he played on both the stage and 1999 BBC film version of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” (“I was just really loud and asked a lot of questions as a kid,” he says.) But he’s come a long way.

Last September, he started his charity, Jojo’s Friends, which will provide memorable experiences to children with disabilities and illnesses.

He wanted to do something positive in his life.

And, as starting a program for children had been an idea of his since he worked as a camp counselor for Redmond Elementary, he figured now was a good time to finally make it happen.

Rollofson funded the project with his own money.

His two sisters helped create and design the logo and his handsome mutt Jojo provided some inspiration.

He’s been collecting donations through the sale of Jojo’s Friends T-shirts on Facebook, and will throw a fundraiser on the Eastside, either in Bellevue or his hometown of Redmond, this summer.

Within five to eight years, he’d like to have Jojo’s Friends evolve into a summer camp for children as well as progress in the dance world.

“In a way, the charity is sort of like my choreography. It’s about having an idea and taking the initiative to get it done,” he says.

That goes for doing something as avant garde as setting a ballet to a Nirvana cover, taking on the immense task of starting a charity and having the guts to prove he’s ready to take the stage with other Sean Rollofson, wearing a Jojo’s Friends T-shirt, partners Hannah Wilcox in a world-class dancers. rehearsal for“Innertwined” at the Phelps Center.

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july 2011 | thebellevuescene.com | 15

The Byrne identity | 5 questions with a Parlor Live Comedian scene: What do you bring to comedy that wasn’t there

By Gabrielle nomura

before?

SB: Plenty of mediocrity. I guess I bring a different perspective because I have a Korean mom and an Irish dad, but I don’t choose between them. I’m just American, instead.

photo courtesy of Steve byrne

I

n just a few short years, Steve Byrne has risen through the ranks of the comedy world to become one of the industry’s most innovative and soughtafter performers. With his high-energy, physical style of comedy, Byrne has evolved throughout the years into an extremely versatile entertainer that delivers on a day-today basis. Born to a Korean mother and an Irish father, his hapa (mixed-race Asian) heritage continues to provide him with an inordinate wealth of comedic material.

His standup has been seen on “Chappelle’s Show,” G4’s “The International Sexy Ladies Show,” “The Howard Stern Show,” to name a few. He’s toured with Vince Vaughn’s Wild West Comedy Tour and many others, opened for well-known recording artists such as Kanye West, Mariah Carey and Modest Mouse.

His big-screen credits include “Couples Retreat,” and “Four Christmases” opposite Vince Vaughn and Reese Witherspoon.

scene: How would you describe your comedic style in one word?

SB: How do you spell ‘yawn?’

scene: I know you’ve said in the past that you don’t want

to use your ethnicity as the basis of your acts, but have you gotten much response from Asian Americans and hapas for your comedy about being multiracial?

SB: Yeah, I guess so. There are other comedians who do better with the Asian community. They choose to pander to that. I try to make my jokes inclusive to anybody.

scene: Why do so many people debate your sexuality?

SB: I don’t know, but I would say I guess that’s a good thing. The minute you’re successful people start debating your sexuality. I’m not getting in line for Lady Gaga anytime soon. As long as my girl knows that, I’m happy.

scene: What is the trick to keeping the same material fresh Steve Byrne is coming to the Parlor Live Comedy Club Aug. 4-6. For more information, go to stevebyrnelive.com and parlorlive.com.

each time?

SB: You just feel the audience. I always try to maintain a lot of eye contact when I’m performing, or sometimes zoom in on a few people. I like seeing that they’re enjoying it. That’s the cool part about a live performance.

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THE scene

16 | thebellevuescene.com | july 2011

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july 2011 | thebellevuescene.com | 17

Ziplocked and Loaded

I

loud & about

n a scene from a movie, or maybe real life, (I get the two confused) a woman proudly whipped open a drawer in her pristine kitchen to show off her neatly labeled boxes and dispensers of plastic wrap, aluminum foil and storage bags. I was HEIJA NUNN momentarily dazzled by her organizational intensity until I realized that she may not possess super powers as enviable as mine. I am able to blindly plunge my hand into my own jumbled food storage drawer to deftly retrieve a perfectly sized Ziploc storage bag, suitable for no less than a zillion different uses. Eyes wide shut!

I’ve tried to remember my life before Ziploc bags; but I had no life before Ziploc bags! In fact they are a year older than I am and exponentially more wrinkle free. I agree with one of my BFF’s who said “if I run out of Ziploc bags I may as well have both arms chopped off !” (Note: if this were to actually happen I would immediately place the arms into a giant Ziploc

and race them to the hospital!)

A quick tour of my house reinforces what I already suspected; Ziploc owns me. Cotton may be the fabric of my life, but Ziploc is the plastic of my life. The evidence is in every room, closet, and freezer bin.

I use Ziploc bags to travel, protect, file, organize, collect and preserve anything and everything. From art supplies and small parts, right back to broccoli and special deliveries of barbecue pork. My Facebook friends share my Ziploc love; cleverly employing Ziploc bags as “Kindle condoms,” leaky gas can seals, and bed bug protectors. One show-off even used a new gargantuan sized bag to brine her Thanksgiving turkey!

I could write an entire book called “Parenting by Ziploc” in which I would share childcare shortcuts brought to you by The Worst Mother in the World and SC Johnson and Company. Who needs a diaper bag? A snack size bag of wipes and one diaper is enough luggage for kid number three. Got lice? Ain’t no thang, grab the neatly organized lice repair kit stowed far away from prying eyes in a Ziploc freezer bag. (Don’t judge, you had it too!). Preschoolers carry a tiny change of clothes in labeled (with a Sharpie of course, my other true love) Ziploc bags that are then used to deliver the soggy remains of a playground/

potty incident back home. And teenagers learn cell phones are more likely to survive a deluged Lacrosse bag if they are protected by Ziploc.

For those of you concerned about my plastic consumption please know that like SC Johnson and Company, I employ strategic landfill diversion methods to offset my consumption. In addition to rinsing and reusing not-too-icky bags, I am also a dedicated recycler, fledgling food waste collector, paper bag devotee, a nearly 100 percent compliant shunner of plastic water bottles and avid consumer of YOUR junk, via Goodwill and garage sales.

As far as I am concerned, the invention of the plastic zipper combined with a plastic bag, has led to a near perfect product. But like all delusional and penniless inventors I believe this article has allowed me to imagine an even better Ziploc. Normally, I would tell you all about it and then grumble when I see it in stores (see: Spanx) but this time I plan to keep my lips locked…Ziploc(ed)!

Wanna say Hiya to Heija? Follow her on Twitter (@Heija) Friend her on Facebook or relax, sit back, and silently judge her life in the flickering glow of your computer screen at her blog The Worst Mother in the World (www.Heija.com).

WHAT SCENE LOVES IN JULY Outdoor movies Bellevue outdoor movie nights are back. Grab a blanket, a lawn chair, family, friends, neighbors or co-workers, and head to Bellevue Downtown Park to enjoy outdoor movies and popcorn this summer.

The eight-week series are Tuesdays, July 5-August 23.

Pre-movie activities planned before each movie, so come down early. All movies will be family-friendly, rated G or PG, and begin at dusk (around 9 p.m.) and are shown under the stars on a huge, 40-foot inflatable screen with a state-of-the-art projection and sound system. While the flicks are free, attendees are encouraged to donate to one of the different charities that will be highlighted each week. Go to 10201 N.E. 4th St., Bellevue. More information at www.bellevue. com.

4th of July Fireworks downtown Celebrate America’s Independence Day this July 4th at the Eastside’s Premier 4th of July Fireworks Event.

Now in its 20th year, the annual Bellevue fireworks event attracts some 60,000 people, features live performances including the Bellevue Philharmonic Orchestra, and ranks among the most spectacular fireworks shows in the Pacific Northwest. The Symetra

Bellevue Family 4th fireworks celebration is produced by City of Bellevue and Bellevue Downtown Association. The event is 2-10:30 p.m. at Bellevue Downtown Park, 10201 N.E. 4th St., Bellevue. Call 425-452-4106 or 425453-1223 more for information or go to www. bellevuedowntown.org.

Newport Hills 4th of July Celebration The event is Monday, July 4 at Newport Hills Park. Festivities include: a children’s parade at 11:30am, an old fashioned picnic, live performances and family-fun activities.

Located at Newport Hills Park, 6029 120th Ave. S.E., Bellevue. Go to www.bellevue.com for more information.

Fourth of July Fireworks and celebration photos by Mike Nakamura.

Newcastle 4th of July Celebration Activities will include picnicking at Lake Boren Parl, a rock concert featuring Shelley & the Curves and a fireworks show. It’s Monday, July 4 at Lake Boren Park.

Limited parking is available on site, as well as nearby off Coal Creek Parkway. City walking trails also lead to the site. A free shuttle will be available for rides to and from Newcastle Elementary School at 8400 136th Ave. S.E., Newcastle.

Bellevue Arts Festival Weekend Arts and crafts take center stage in Downtown Bellevue July 29-31, 2011, as the the city welcomes artists from around the region and country to its premier annual arts extravaganza. Each year, the Bellevue Arts Week, as we like to call it, draws more than 300,000 attendees to Bellevue over the 3-day fete celebrating arts and crafts. For more information about Bellevue Arts Museum ArtsFair, Bellevue 6th Street Fair and Bellevue Festival of the Arts, go to www. bellevue.com.

18 | thebellevuescene.com | july 2011

Stepping out in style T

Ask Rose

he Poncho Wine Auction’s VIP Vintner’s Dinner took place in the beautiful home of Janet and Doug True.

Guests attended this private affair dressed ROSE DENNIS appropriately for a Napa family – style dinner, paired with exclusive wines from Duckhorn Vineyards. Always remember to bring a small hostess gift to the hosts, and to follow up with a handwritten thank you note expressing your gratitude for their hospitality.

Jamie and Karen Moyer and friends were dressed perfectly for the recent Moyer Foundation Annual Giving Luncheon. Nicely tailored suits on the gentlemen and the perfect tea length sleeveless dress that showcase their beautifully toned upper arms and body.

The Evergreen Healthcare Ball and the Bandage

style watch

Ball for Overlake Hospital were the Ball’s to show everyone their beautiful couture ball gown and designer tuxedo as they entered and made their perfect pose.

Rose Dennis has 14 years experience as a tenured college professor at Edmonds Community College, teaching classes in Fashion, Retail, Marketing and Business Management.

Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center’s Premier Chefs Dinner at Sodo Park by Herban Feast showcased a fabulous collection of entrée’s paired with the perfect wines. These guests knew how to dress in the suggested cocktail attire.

Holding a wine glass for a photo is okay for a casual event like this one. For a formal event, I suggest placing your beverages down before the photo is taken.

Patty Edwards Ryan Hyde for Team Photogenic © 2011

Fouad Farhat and Maryam Aminian Ryan Hyde for Team Photogenic © 2011

Kamyar and Sasha Moinzadeh

Jason and Maryam Aycox

Paige and Reagan Dunn

Ryan Hyde for Team Photogenic © 2011

Ryan Hyde for Team Photogenic © 2011

Ryan Hyde for Team Photogenic © 2011

THE scene

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july 2011 | thebellevuescene.com | 19

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