The Chandler Center for the Arts will showcase youth talent during “Plugged In” on Saturday, Sept. 12.
“‘Plugged In’ is a signature youth concert for our annual tradition of free summer concerts at the center,” said Chandler Center for the Arts General Manager Michelle Mac Lennan.
The Chandler Center for the Arts held “Plugged In” in 2014, but venue officials wanted to expand the scope and identity of the event. So organizers reached out to Steve Berg, owner of Rock n Roll High School, which has locations in Gilbert and Glendale.
“Chandler Center leadership reached out to me with the intent of making ‘Plugged In’ better and more entertaining for the participants and the audience,” he said.
This year’s program will feature eight bands and two soloist acts playing to the crowd and providing great music across multiple genres. “We wanted a diverse blend of music, and provide the opportunity to showcase youth bands,” Berg said.
While the final show will be an entertainment event and not a competition, musicians will battle it out for a spot on the stage on two nights—Saturday, Aug. 22, at Hard Rock Café and Saturday, Aug. 29, at Alice Cooperstown.
Bands and soloists will perform two songs (original or cover) and, according to Berg, will have “an impartial panel of judges, comprised of local music
scene members and music industry professionals, rating bands based on criterion including professionalism, originality, performance and band presentation, musicality, ‘star power’ and audience response.”
The roster of bands performing for the right to appear in the final eight and two soloists will be determined by submissions to Rock n Roll High School before Aug. 21.
A competition like “Plugged In” is nothing new for Rock n Roll High School.
“I started the business over three years ago, because my son was a drummer, and while he attended Gilbert High School, there was no forum open to him to perform. He had hours and hours of lessons, but never had a chance to play at venues or in front of an audience. We needed to provide an organizational structure to put bands on stage,” Berg said.
Rock n Roll High School has events all year around and books the talent it grooms in great venues across Phoenix. “Nobody else is doing this anywhere else in the country,” said Berg. “We provide opportunities for youth bands to be created, practice under professional supervision and deliver outlets where they can perform.”
For “Plugged In,” the band finalists will have 20 minutes to play, with soloists having 15 minutes. In addition to the bands receiving $100 and soloists $50, in-studio recording will be provided by Green World Studios. “We
love to bring attention to bands and this will be a great atmosphere,” said Berg.
Having the event at Chandler Center for the Arts provides a special environment for youth musicians. “Chandler Center has been great to work with,” said Berg. Mac Lennan echoed this sentiment. “Partnering with Rock n Roll High School has been a great way to inspire and motivate the next generation of young aspiring
musicians while also serving as an educational opportunity.”
Those interested in performing or sponsoring the event can contact Steve Berg at steve@rrhs.biz or (480) 2063149. For more information, visit www. rocknrollhighschool.biz.
Tim J. Randall is a freelancer for the SanTan Sun News. He can be reached at news@santansun.com.
The signature youth concert, “Plugged In,” is set for Saturday, Sept. 12, at Chandler Center for the Arts. Submitted photo
Toto, Yes pairing makes perfect sense to bands
BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI
When booking agents paired prog rockers Yes with the softer sounds of Toto for a summer tour, some saw the lineup as odd. Toto’s guitarist/vocalist Steve Lukather acknowledges this, but said the partnership works on several levels. Namely, both bands have recently witnessed the deaths of core members— Yes’ Chris Squire and Toto’s Mike Porcaro.
“They lost Chris tragically,” said Lukather of the musician who died in Arizona of leukemia. “He was one of the greatest musicians ever. We lost our brother, Mike, a couple years ago. There are no egos on the tour.”
Although they play different genres of music, Toto and Yes have utmost respect for each other, said Lukather, who goes by the nickname “Luke.” Those differences actually make for the perfect tour.
“We just wanted to be a little more eclectic,” Lukather said. “It was so exciting. Chris was supposed to get better and he didn’t. It’s really tough for their camp. It was like us losing Jeff Porcaro, our leader, our guy. We just lost Mike, we’ve lost two.”
“If I was to go (die), I’d like the guys to continue playing music,” he said. “Not playing isn’t going to bring me back.
“If anything, we celebrate the memories. Mike was a legend. Chris was one of the greatest musicians ever. We have to carry on with respect. All this does is remind me that every day is a blessing. We have to make the most of it. I’m a very sensitive cat, but I also have a great sense of humor.”
His silliness shines during the second half of the interview, which focused on Toto’s new album “Toto XIV,” which hit stores March 20. It is one of the band’s most critically acclaimed albums.
“We’re not used to good reviews,” he said. “We always got our asses kicked. They compared us to punk music, which is like comparing a massive rump steak to a vegetarian. You can’t put the two on the same plate.
“We survived it all. It’s been a great long career. It’s a rollercoaster ride, one we had to hang on to without being flung out from the top. We all went to school together. There’s something we have that very few people understand.”
“That’s real,” he said. “Nobody is showing up to see what my (butt) looks like in my jeans, although I’ve been told that it looks OK in my jeans. I don’t look bad for my age. I have a young girlfriend, he, he, he. I’m not a creep. You just never know who’s going to like you and who you’re going to like.”
tight. We’re having fun. We haven’t toured the U.S. as much, so we’re kind of fresh meat, if you will, for the lost era.” Yes and Toto perform at 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4, at The Pool at Talking Stick, 9800 E. Indian Bend Rd., Scottsdale. Tickets are $55 to $150. For more information, call (800) 745-3000 or visit www.ticketmaster.com.
Throughout the run, which includes a Friday, Sept. 4, show at The Pool at Talking Stick, Yes and Toto are paying tribute to their fallen musicians.
Toto’s album and shows have been successful thanks to megahits like “Africa,” “Rosanna” and “Hold the Line.” While Toto’s sound has evolved, the touring routine has not.
The Pool at Talking Stick gig is a rarity for Toto, who primarily tours overseas. But he’s excited to bring the noise to the United States.
“We’re bringing it,” he said. “The band’s
Christina Fuoco-Karasinski is the executive editor of the Times Media Group. She can be reached at christina@santansun. com.
Toto is in the midst of a rare U.S. tour that brings the band to The Pool at Talking Stick with Yes on Friday, Sept. 4. Submitted photo
Women’s faces by women artists on display at the CCA
BY KENNETH LAFAVE
The faces of Arizona women, interpreted by Arizona women artists, will line the walls of the Chandler Center for the Arts Gallery, 250 N. Arizona Ave., through Oct. 24.
Portraits of Arizona businesswomen, civic leaders, philanthropists, writers, politicians and celebrities comprise the exhibition, “Women Making Faces.” Ten Arizona women artists created the show’s 65 portraits in oils, watercolor, charcoal and silverpoint.
“I’ve always had an obsession for anything with eyeballs,” said Debra Jones, the Scottsdale artist who curated “Women
Making Faces.” “Portraiture is everything to me. There’s something in the eyes.”
Jones got the idea for the exhibition when she saw a show called “Women Painting Women” in Alexandria, Virginia.
“In Virginia, they’ve been doing these for about five years,” she said. “When Chandler Center for the Arts’ gallery came available, the opportunity to do one like it here was huge.”
Jones contacted every Arizona woman artist she knew and some she didn’t, and asked them to make a list of notable Arizona women they would like to paint. The resulting exhibition represents 10
Free Summer Concerts
Sugar Thieves
Friday, August 14, 2015 · 7:30pm
The Sugar Thieves have a sultry blues roots foundation and powerhouse delta sound that will take you back in time. The singular vision that drives this band is their plight to reintroduce blues music to younger generations and those that have simply forgotten.
Tres Guitarras
Friday, August 21, 2015 · 7:30pm Flamenco, Blues and Jazz entwine through the hands and musical voices of three incredible artists. Embark on a 6-string journey with their distinct musical voices.
Ritmo Latino
Friday, August 28, 2015 · 7:30pm
Led by singer Andres Martinez, Ritmo Latino masterfully mixes up a Salsa,Cumbia, Cha Cha Cha, and Latin Jazz musical blend.
Plugged In
Saturday, September 12, 2015 · 6:30pm
Music industry professionals will select nine youth bands to perform at the Center’s signature youth concert, Plugged In
artists, each of whom have contributed from two to 16 portraits of prominent Arizona women.
“It’s a showcase, a walk-in portfolio of work by 10 women artists,” Jones said.
In addition to Jones, the exhibition’s artists are: Carole Andreen-Harris, Mary Rochelle Burnham, Linda Fox, Moira Marti Geoffrion, Gini Heywood, Carla Keaton, Chris Saper, Gay Myers Scheibl and Annette Smith.
Jones’ own list of 16 portraits includes some stellar subjects. Sandra Day O’Connor tops a list that includes businesswoman Kimber Lanning, ASU Gammage’s Colleen Jennings-Roggensack, author Jana Bommersbach, philanthropist Cindy McCain and former governor, Janet Napolitano.
Artist Mary Rochelle Burnham, who moved to Cornville from Michigan two years ago, chose five subjects: Kimberly McWaters, CEO of Universal Technical Institute; Beverly Damore, of St. Mary’s Food Bank; Rabbi Alicia Magal of the Jewish Community of Sedona; world traveler and volunteer Marjorie West, and Dr. Hollis Underwood, an internal medicine specialist in Scottsdale.
Like all the other artists, Burnham also included a self-portrait.
“I’ve been doing portraits since I was 11 years old. It’s my number one thing,” Burnham said.
Yet, since moving here, Burnham has not received many commissions for portraits. The relative lack of local interest
in portraiture is something also noted by Jones.
“I live for portraits, but people here in Arizona will paint their dog before their grandbaby,” Jones said.
“Grandbabies grow and change before your eyes, but at least dogs are consistent.”
The large number of people who live in Arizona seasonally may also be a contributing factor.
“I think a lot of winter residents spend their cultural money back where they came from,” she said.
Part of the intent of “Women Making Faces” is to alert Arizona art lovers to the value of having one’s portrait done and the local talent available to do it.
“I call it iPhone marketing,” Jones added. “Nobody knew they needed an iPhone until there was one. It’s the same with portraiture.”
“I’m hoping this exhibition will let people know my style, so if they like it, they might commission me,” Burnham said.
But the main reason Burnham is in the show is her love of the genre:
“Portraits are special. There’s about the human face that’s transcendent.”
For more information on “Women Making Faces,” call (480) 782-2695, or go to www.chandlercenter.org.
Kenneth LaFave is an associate editor with the SanTan Sun News. He can be reached at klafave@santansun.com.
Classic summer blockbusters continue through end of year
Retro is hip, and the Harkins Theatres are celebrating all things “old” by presenting the Tuesday Night Classics. For $5, guests can relive their favorite films on the big screen at theaters throughout the Valley, including Chandler Crossroads and Chandler Fashion Center. Movies start at 7 p.m.
The remainder of the year the following movies will be shown:
• “The Shawshank Redemption,” Aug. 18
• “Beverly Hills Cop,” Aug. 25
• “The Sound of Music,” Sept. 1
• “Fletch,” Sept. 8
• “North by Northwest,” Sept. 15
• “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate
Factory,” Sept. 22
• “Raising Arizona,” Sept. 2
• “Gremlins,” Oct. 6
• “Alien,” Oct. 13
• “The Exorcist,” Oct. 20
• “Halloween,” Oct. 27
• “Three Amigos,” Nov. 3
• “The Jerk,” Nov. 10
• “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels,” Nov. 17
• “Planes Trains and Automobiles,” Nov. 24
• “Christmas Vacation,” Dec. 1
• “Elf,” Dec. 8
• “A Christmas Story,” Dec. 15
• “The Polar Express,” Dec. 22. For more information, visit www. HarkinsTheatres.com/TNC.
Sonoran Desert Chorale releases season performances
A musical exploration of the primal elements of earth, fire, wind and water make up the Sonoran Desert Chorale 2015-2016 season.
Full season tickets packages are on sale for $60 for adults and $50 for seniors and students. Adult single tickets are $18 and $15 for seniors, students and groups. Tickets can be purchased by visiting www. sonorandesertchorale.org or by calling (480) 305-4538.
The performances are held at First United Methodist Church, 15 E. First Ave., Mesa, and at La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church, 6300 E. Bell Rd., Scottsdale. Descriptions of concerts are as follows:
• From the frosty winds of the Norwegian tundra to the flame of an Arizona sunset, the chorale celebrates the natural world and mankind’s relationship with the earth and the heavens. The performance, titled, “Where the Earth Meets the Sky,” will begin at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 10, at First United Methodist Church, and at 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 11, at La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church.
• Join the chorale as they gladden hearts with traditional carols, brass and organ selections plus the delight of singing together in the annual audience sing-along. “Glad Tidings! Music for a Winter’s Night” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, at First United Methodist Church, and at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13, at
Casa de
• The “wonders of heaven and earth” are reflected in a “Mass for the Ages,” a unique compilation of the liturgy of the mass as written by classical and contemporary composers. “Of Heaven and Earth,” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 5, at First United Methodist Church and from 3 p.m. Sunday, March 6, at La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church.
• Haunting melodies, exciting rhythms and rich musical traditions reflecting the diversity of cultures and the harmony of spirits infuse the Americas from the frigid fjords of Nunavut, Canada to the tip of Tierra del Fuego in South America. “Between Oceans: Songs of the Americans at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 30, at First United Methodist Church, and at 3 p.m. Sunday, May 1, at La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church.
•
Art Intersection is holding a members’ portfolio sharing event on Thursday, Oct. 15. Submitted photo
Show your work and view the work of other members from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 15. One of the member benefits for all membership levels is the opportunity to exhibit at Art Intersection, 207 N. Gilbert Rd., Suite 201, Gilbert. One way to exhibit work is by sharing a portfolio in a members’ portfolio sharing event. Each member will have a tabletop space about 30-inches by 72-inches to show their work.
The event is free and open to the public for viewing. Members wishing to participate should RSVP by email info@artintersection.com or by calling (480) 361-1118.
La
Cristo Lutheran Church.
Valley Youth Theatre releases season schedule
A full schedule of performances has been announced for the 27th anniversary 2015-2016 season of Valley Youth Theatre.
• Through Sunday, Aug. 30, “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” will take Center Stage at Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix. For Tickets call (602) 252-8497.
• “James and the Giant Peach,” will be performed from Friday, Oct. 9, through Sunday, Oct. 25. The musical adventure will go live on stage at Valley Youth Theatre, 525 N. First St., Phoenix. Tickets will go on sale Monday, Aug. 10, at www. vyt.com or call (602) 253-8188.
• The 20th anniversary of the beloved classic “A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail,” will be shown from Friday, Dec. 4, through Wednesday, Dec. 23, at Valley Youth Theatre, 525 N. First St., Phoenix. Tickets go on sale Monday, Oct. 5, at www.vyt.com or call (602) 253-8188.
• A re-imagination of a classic tale, “Pinocchio,” will take stage Friday, Feb. 5, through Sunday, Feb. 21, at Valley Youth Theatre, 525 N. First St., Phoenix. Tickets go on sale Monday, Nov. 30, at www.vyt. com or call (602) 253-8188.
• A musical based on the book by Victoria Kann and Elizabeth Kann, “Pinkalicious” will take stage Friday, April 8, through Sunday, April 24, at Valley Youth Theatre, 525 N. First St., Phoenix. Tickets go on sale Monday, Feb. 1, at www.vyt. com or call (602) 253-8188.
• Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” will take
Center Stage at the Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix, from Friday, June 10, through Sunday, June 26. Tickets go on sale Monday, April 4, at www.herbergertheater.org or by calling (602) 252-8497.
Established in 1989, Valley Youth Theatre is a professional quality, a 501(c) (3) nonprofit theatre dedicated to helping young people achieve their full potential through meaningful engagement, education, and excellence in the performing arts.
For more information, visit www.vyt. com.
Live entertainment continues at The Lounge at Ak-Chin
Entertainment by national acts as well as tribute bands continue at the Lounge at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino in August. The venue offers a state-of-the-art sound system, LED lighting effects, a dance floor and a large beverage menu to please anyone.
The Lounge events include:
• Queen Nation pays homage to the legendary rock band, Queen. Its 90-minute tribute to Queen’s greatest hits will take rock fans back in time with great respect and accuracy. It will perform from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15.
• Any country music fan will enjoy the best of current and past country hits from Young Country. Young Country will perform from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. Friday, Aug. 21.
• This fusion of R&B, Latin and rock is sure to impress as AzTex takes the stage. AzTex has emerged as one of the top entertainment bands in Arizona and brings energy to keep the audience dancing all night. AzTex will perform from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 22.
• Quantum is an entertaining blend of R&B, funk, old school jazz and Top 40 music. Quantum will perform from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. Friday, Aug. 28.
• Solace provides a relaxing atmosphere through acoustics focused on harmony vocals and arrangements of any song. This smooth group maintains a low-key vibe for the audience. Solace will perform from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 29.
Each Wednesday in August guests are
invited to listen to some great live music from noon until 4 p.m.
• XO will perform Wednesday, Aug. 19.
• Silhouette will perform Wednesday, Aug. 26. For all jazz, Motown and contemporary musical desires, Silhouette will keep audience members involved through their vibrant and versatile style. The Lounge Happy Hour is offered Monday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• The Walkens Duo will perform Wednesday, Aug. 19; Wednesday, Aug. 26
• He Said She Said will perform Monday, Aug. 17, and Monday, Aug. 24
• Paul Wells will perform Tuesday, Aug. 18, and Tuesday, Aug. 25
• Karen & Pat will perform Thursday, Aug. 20 and Thursday, Aug. 27
• John Eric Duo will perform Monday, Aug. 31
Sundays just got a whole lot cooler thanks to Margarita Sundays, poolside parties held Sundays throughout the summer at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino. Enjoy live music, great food and drinks, all while relaxing poolside. Margarita Sundays are from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
• AzTex will perform Sunday, Aug. 16
• Desert Beach will perform Sunday, Aug. 23
• Rock Lobster will perform Sunday, Aug. 30.
For a full listing of entertainment this month and for more information, contact Harrah’s Ak-Chin at (480) 802-5000 or visit www.harrahsakchin.com.
The Authentic
Over the last five years Keron Psillas has created images that narrate her response to what was destroyed by hate during the Holocaust. The project arose from her life-long passion for history. In 2010, she had the opportunity to make her first trip to Eastern Europe. She traveled to Bergen-Belsen and Theresienstadt along with a few smaller, but no less poignant places in the historical landscape of World War II. Confronted with only the beauty of birches enrobed with brilliant fall color in Bergen-Belsen, she was totally destabilized.
Psillas said it took her nearly a year to understand how she might respond as a photographer and as an artist seeking greater understanding.
It was during the year between her first two journeys that she read “The Girls of Room 28,” by Hannelore Brenner. The memory of Psillas’ time in Terezin grew stronger as her time away grew longer. She was searching for the story of these young girls. They showed her the way. They made it possible for her to create images and foster a conversation about the uplifting, healing and sustaining power of the creative act.
“Loss and Beauty; creating solace in a world of infinite sorrow,” is a collection of images about the nature of personal journeys during the Nazi Holocaust. The images are unique in the world of creativity and expression that has come from the experience of the Holocaust. Composites of
Psillas’ original photographs express the relationship between home and final resting place and the journeys, psychological and physical, that were undertaken. The photographs offer a mirror for individuals to imagine victim and aggressor simultaneously.
An opening reception will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 5. The exhibit will be on display from Saturday, Sept. 5, through Saturday, Oct. 31, at The Gallery 4, 207 N. Gilbert Rd., Suite 004, Gilbert. The gallery is open from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays. For more information call (480) 3611118 or email info@artintersection.com.
A three-day workshop, The Authentic Encounter with Connie Imboden, which includes portfolio reviews, class discussion and assignments will be held from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 13. The workshop will be held at Art Intersection, located at 207 N. Gilbert Rd., Suite 004, Gilbert.
The workshop will teach individuals that it is not what an individual photographs, but how they photograph that is important. Through exercises, assignments and discussions, the goal of this workshop is to learn to use the camera as a tool to discover
new ways of looking at and experiencing the world. Instead of thinking things through and being in control, attendees will learn to develop an instinctive visual approach in the work, trusting in their eyes to guide them. In this supportive environment, process is emphasized over the product, playfulness is encouraged and mistakes are pathways to discovery. It is open to all levels, though a working knowledge of their camera is important. Participants will be given an hour for lunch on Saturday and Sunday. Lunch is not provided. For more information, call (480) 3611118 or email info@artintersection.com.
The Gold Canyon Arts Council will sponsor its annual one-day Arts Festival highlighting local artists and musicians. This event will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 23, on the grounds of the Gold Canyon United Methodist Church, 6640 Kings Ranch Rd.
Based on sales and a turnout of nearly 4,000 people last year, many of the participating artists called it “the best one-day show in the state.”
Applications are available for artist who would like to share their work at www.gcartsfest.com. Go to “artist information” and then scroll to the bottom of the page after printable artist rules and application.”
Photos of the artists’ work and the application must be turned in to the jury by Sunday, Nov. 15. This is a juried show, and approximately 85 artists will participate in the event.
Submitted work will be juried in one of the following categories: painting and drawing; photographic art; clay art; metalwork art; glass art; wood art; jewelry art; natural product art with gourds and seeds; fabric, fiber and leather art. Artists may submit in two categories, but may sell only in categories approved by the jury.
The Gold Canyon Arts Council promotes and sponsors the performing and visual arts through its Canyon Sounds Artist Series.
More about the organization can be found at www.gcac1.com. The council is supported in part by grants from the Arizona Commission on the Arts, Western States Arts Federation, the National Endowment for the Arts, local corporations and businesses.
For more information, email info. gcartsfest@gmail.com.
Chandler artist exhibits artwork during ‘Wicked’
Chandler artist Melody Smith will be exhibiting more than 50 pieces of art at ASU Gammage during the six-week production of “Wicked,” which runs from Aug. 26, through Oct. 4.
Smith was born and raised in Southern California and earned a bachelor’s degree in art. She spent more than 15 years as an art director in Los Angeles and Orange County working as an artist and a designer. Smith now resides in Chandler and is a full-time artist who exhibits and sells her art at shows in Los Angeles, Orange County and throughout the Phoenix area.
Smith defines her art as “contemporary urban eclectic,” a mixture of modern pop art and urban designs in acrylics and watercolors. She puts a modern flair on urban trends incorporating graffiti, tattoos, folk art and city dwellings in her paintings. Smith’s work has been featured in Tattoo Magazine, Tattooed Art & Culture Magazine, in newspapers, on local TV and in various galleries and businesses throughout Arizona and California.
Melody Smith will have an exhibit with more than 50 pieces of her art at ASU Gammage during the “Wicked” production. Submitted photo
For more information, visit www.etsy.com/shop/ urbanartbymelody, @melodysmithart on Instagram, www.facebook.com/
urbanartbymelody or email info@ blackbirdcenter.com.
The Performing Arts League collecting membership dues for season
Membership fees are due for the Performing Arts League 2015-2016 season. Dues, which are $10 per person, or $15 per couple, will afford members with the opportunity to attend theater for musicals and one-time events, the opera or the Coffee Classics.
Dues can be sent to PAL, P.O. Box 13051, Chandler, AZ 85248.
For more information on the opera call Vera at (480) 895-9679. For coffee classic call Lynn at (480) 883-0671 and for theater call Pat at (480) 339-0283.
A bus, or a car and driver, is also provided for members who do not want to drive for $20 round trip. Individuals can leave their car at the Cottonwood flag pole.
Center for the Arts accepting donated items for Yard Sale
The Chandler Center for the Arts will host an indoor yard sale from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22. The sale is open to the public and all funds raised will support Connecting Kidz, a program at the center that provides free and low fee arts and activity programs for youth.
Donated items for the indoor yard sale are being accepted from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. through Friday, Aug. 21, weekdays at the Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave.
The following items will be accepted: dresses and costumes, gently used; small appliances; antiques; working electronics; household décor; collectables; wood furniture; patio furniture; musical
instruments; artwork; office/school supplies; gently used bedding and linens; tools; vinyl records; watches; costume jewelry; retro toys; games and dolls. Items that will not be accepted include books; CDs; mattresses; shoes and clothing other than dresses and costumes. Due to limited storage space, large furniture and large working appliances will only be accepted from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21. Call (480) 782-2689 on or before Friday, Aug. 21, for the large item dropoff location.
For more information, visit www. chandlercenter.org.
Myths & Masks: Creative Aging Program at the Downtown Library
The Chandler Downtown Library will present “Myths & Masks,” a free series of multifaceted workshops for ages 50 and older incorporating art, maskmaking, poetry and public performance. Participants will create and embellish a life mask, and compose poetry which reflects their unique life journey. Attendees will participate in eight weekly sessions and a culminating event.
Will Clipman, Canyon Records percussionist and multiple Grammy nominee, will facilitate this voyage of self-discovery.
“These workshops offer a highly engaging opportunity for participants to learn from a renowned arts educator of the highest caliber who describes the process as, ‘healing, meditative and pleasurable,’” said librarian Ted Liebler. Workshops will be held at the Downtown Library, 22 S. Delaware St., from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. each Tuesday, and will run Sept. 29 through Nov. 17. The program will end with a public performance from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 21.
The workshops are free, but registration is required and is limited to 20. Registration opened Aug. 10 and registrants are expected to attend all sessions.
For more information, call (480) 7822800 or www.chandlerlibrary.org.
Creative Aging in America’s Libraries is supported by a National Leadership
29 through Nov. 17 every Tuesday. Submitted photo
Grant from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services in collaboration with Lifetime Arts, Inc., AARP Foundation, American Library Association and Westchester Library System.
Free festival to celebrate Mesa Arts Center’s 10th anniversary
Mesa Arts Center will celebrate a major milestone in 2015-2016—the 10th season of entertainment and education at One E. Main St. in Downtown Mesa. Everyone is invited to join the celebration at a free season kickoff festival from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11.
The family-friendly festival will take on the atmosphere of a Latin street party with an outdoor performance by Chicano rock power trio Los Lonely Boys. The festival feature opener Matt Anderson, lessons in Latin social dance from New York based Latino dance organization Ballet Hispanico, and new exhibitions in Mesa Contemporary Art Museum, including three that will showcase works from actor, comedian Cheech Marin’s collection of Chicano art.
Festival goers will see custom lowrider cars and motorcycles on display, hear nonstop live music, watch live street artists and live artist demonstrations on the campus Shadow Walk, tour Mesa Arts Center’s art studios and enjoy delicious foods from local vendors.
Five exhibitions will open in Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum on Friday, Sept. 11. “Take Ten: The Past Decade of Collecting” by Cheech Marin will draw from the renowned private collection of entertainer and arts advocate Marin, who has amassed one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive collections of Chicano art.
“Curatorial Spotlight: Ricardo Ruiz”
will feature highlights of the curious paintings of Texas artists Ricardo Ruiz from Cheech Marin’s collection.
“10 pick 10” will showcase the work of 10 pivotal Chicano artists, whose work has become the cornerstone of Marin’s collection, and 10 works by emerging artists at a juncture in their career.
“Yonder Peasant . . .The Photography of Pedro E. Guerrero” will showcase iconic artist portraits and architectural photographs by the celebrated Arizona photographer Pedro Guerrero. And “Chicano State of Mind” will feature eight Arizona artists whose work explores the idea that being Chicano is a state-of-mind that goes beyond a restrictive classification.
Will Clipman will facilitate the voyage of discovery, which will run from Sept.
ON STAGE
Emily’s D+Evolution, Saturday, Aug. 15, MAC. Grammy Award-winning singer, composer and bassist Emily Spalding will perform her newest project, rekindling her childhood interest in theater, poetry and movement.
Justin Shandor “World’s Ultimate Elvis Concert,” Saturday, Aug. 15, WHP. Shandor’s voice is so strong that he was asked to sing a song written by Elvis more than 40 years ago by one of Elvis’ writers.
Nashville Gold: The Story of Country Music, Sunday, Aug. 16, WHP. Attendees hear all the hits and feel like they have a front row seat at the Opry House or in the Country Music Hall of Fame.
“American Idol Live!” Sunday, Aug. 16, MAC. The concert will give fans the opportunity to get up close and personal with the top five Idols from season 14.
Jackson Browne, Thursday, Aug. 20, MAC. Jackson’s career began in the mid‘60s in Los Angeles and Orange County folk clubs.
Dash Berlin, Friday, Aug. 21, MDNC. The trance artist was the first DJ to perform at the Boulevard Pool at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.
Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo 35th Anniversary Tour, Friday, Aug. 21, WHP. Along the way, the union of Pat Benatar and Neil “Spyder” Giraldo has become one of the most successful in music history and their legacy continues to be celebrated across the globe.
Tres Guitarras, Friday, Aug. 21, CCA. Tres Guitarras features Chris Jacome –flamenco; Bob Fahey – blues and Stan Sorenson – jazz.
“Something’s Afoot,” Friday, Aug. 28, through Saturday, Oct. 10, HCT. Watch the mystery unfold when a group of unlucky guests meet their timely demise.
Henry Fong, Friday, Aug. 28, MDNC. His big room progressive and electro-house sound, combined with his precise DJ skills have launched Fong as one of the best new dance acts around.
Arizona Theatre Company launches bold new logo and website
Arizona Theatre Company (ATC) heads into its 49th season with a bold new look. ATC has launched a redesigned website highlighted by a striking new logo that underscores the company’s energy, strength and rich history. The effort was funded by a grant from Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust.
Created by Phoenixbased graphic designer from Esser Design, Inc., the modernized circular logo features the words “Arizona” and “Company,” each in a turquoise-hued blue color on a black circle surrounding the gray and redshadowed word “Theatre” positioned straight across the middle of the logo.
been our foundation. Our fresh, new brand captures that concept in a design that mirrors the quality and artistry of the relevant, entertaining and impactful productions audiences see on stage. It’s a perfect marriage.”
The logo ties together the company’s brighter, more accessible and easily navigable new website www.arizonatheatre. org, which was designed by Scottsdale-based Stringcan Creative. The launch of the new look and website coincides with ATC’s recent announcement of the lineup for the 2015-2016 season.
Productions and dates are:
Sinbad, Saturday, Aug. 29, WHP. Actor and comedian Sinbad arrived on the comedy scene with a “hit’em in the face” style of comedy that has kept audiences laughing in the aisles for the past two decades.
The Australian Pink Floyd Show, Wednesday, Sept. 2, MAC. The Australian Pink Floyd Show is rightfully hailed as one of the leading concert performances currently operating.
“Crimes of the Heart,” Thursday, Sept. 3, through Sunday, Sept. 20, TAS. In Hazlehurst, Mississippi, the three Magrath sisters have gathered to await news of their grandfather, who is living out his final hours in the local hospital.
Latin Comedy Jam, Fri., Sept. 11, WHP. Dillion Garcia, Javi Luna, Frankie Quinones, Roberto Rodriguez and Steve Trevino are featured in the Latin Comedy Jam.
Plugged In , Saturday, Sept. 12, CCA. The Chandler Center for the Arts, along with Rock ‘n’ Roll High School, select the top nine bands to perform at the center’s signature youth concert, Plugged In.
Vietnamese Music Concert, Sat., Sept. 12, WHP. Truong Giang is hosting the concert that will feature many performers.
Ballet Hispanico, Wednesday, Sept. 16, and Friday, Sept. 18, MAC. Ballet Hispanico will perform an evening-length masterpiece of “CARMEN.maquia.”
ON STAGE VENUE INDEX
CCA—Chandler Center for the Arts
250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler Tickets: (480) 782-2680, www. chandlercenter.org
HCT—Hale Center Theatre
Dana Carvey, Saturday, Sept. 19, WHP. Dana Carvey, a master of impersonations, costar of the “Wayne’s World” movies, and one of the most versatile players from “Saturday Night Live.”
Bowling for Soup, Monday, Sept. 21, LW. The Texas-based band Bowling for Soup is known for such hits as “Girl All the Bad Guys Want,” “Almost,” “High School Never Ends” and “1985.” It is touring with special guests Dolly Rots and Ivory Tribe.
“Carnival of Illusion,” Saturday, Sept. 26, MAC. This top-rated attraction is “revitalizing magic” by blending its international theme with all the charms of a Vaudeville-inspired road show.
“Swan Lake,” Friday, Oct. 2, CCA. The Russian Grand Ballet will present the full-length classic production of Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake.”
Cazzette, Friday, Oct. 16, MDNC. Alexander Björklund and Sebastian Furrer, better known by their stage name Cazzette, are a dance music duo from Sweden.
DVBBS, Saturday, Oct. 24, MDNC. Canadian dance music duo DVBBS, pronounced dubs, is comprised of brothers Christopher and Alex van den Hoef.
Accompanying the new logo is a positioning statement, “The Art of Live,” that defines both the company’s core value and the ATC experience, explained Interim Managing Director Matt Lehrman.
“ATC has consistently delivered to our audiences live theatre experiences that are fun, entertaining, often insightful and always of the highest quality. Our new logo redefines what makes ATC unique in a very visual and visceral fashion,” he added.
Artistic Director David Ira Goldstein added that “A new approach to ATC’s public face is one of the important ways to shape our future and builds upon the history, efforts and deeprooted community support that has
• “Sex with Strangers” Sept. 24, through Oct. 11
• “Hershey Felder as Irving Berlin” Oct. 8 through Oct. 25
• “Disgraced” Nov. 12, through Nov. 29
• “Snapshots” Dec. 30, through Jan. 17
• “Fences” Feb. 11, through Feb. 28
• “Of Mice and Men” March 31, through April 17
• “The Gospel According to Thomas Jefferson, Charles Dickens & Count Leo Tolstoy: Discord” May 5, through May 29
Single tickets for all Arizona Theatre Company productions during the 20152016 season are on sale. Single-ticket packages are also available. To purchase tickets, season or individual tickets, visit www.arizonatheatre.org.
50 W. Page Ave., Gilbert Tickets: (480) 497-1181, www. haletheatrearizona.com
