The Entertainer - September 2019

PHX METRO » SEPTEMBER 2019

FALL

ARTS PREVIEW James Carter leading pack of this season’s shows

LENNY KRAVITZ wants fans to go his way

OKTOBERFEST

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5 | 6-9PM

THE WIGWAM FRONT LAWN | litchfield-park.org | 623.935.9040

Now Inside

Presented by

2019-2020

10 Percent Discount on Single Tickets Only with Box Office Code

ENTVIP

Lakeshore Concert Series at Tempe Center for the Arts

SEAN JONES QUARTET Oct. 26, 2019 CARMELA RAMIREZ Y MÁS - CUBOP A Latin Jazz Explosion Nov. 23, 2019

BETH LEDERMAN AND JAZZ CON ALMA A Winter Solstice Concert Dec. 21, 2019

HOT CLUB OF SAN FRANCISCO Mar. 21, 2020

NEW WEST GUITAR GROUP Jan. 25, 2020

HAROLD LÓPEZ-NUSSA Direct From Havana Apr. 25, 2020

CHLOE FEORANZO QUARTET Feb. 22, 2020

TAMIR HENDELMAN’S SPIRIT OF ISRAEL ENSEMBLE May 16, 2020

All shows begin at 7:30pm in the Lakeside Room. Schedule subject to change.

700 W. RIO SALADO PARKWAY • 480-350-2822 • LAKESHOREMUSIC.ORG

UPCOMING P L A Y

SEP 7

I N

S T Y L E

SEP 23

BRAD PAISLEY

WARRANT

in The Showroom

OCT 11

in The Showroom

Call Reservations 866-877-9897 for room packages

OCT 24

DAVE MASON

AARON LEWIS

in The Showroom

in The Ballroom

STATE I'M IN TOUR

Feelin' Alright Tour 2019

OCT 31

NOV 30

MOTT THE HOOPLE '74 in The Ballroom

PIFF THE MAGIC DRAGON in The Showroom

For tickets call the box office at 480.850.7734 or visit ticketmaster.com

101 & TA L K I N G S T I C K W A Y | S C O T T S D A L E TA L K I N G S T I C K R E S O R T. C O M Locally owned and caringly operated by the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2019

FALL

CONTENTS

5

ARTS PREVIEW Venues abound with plays and performances this season

24 ON THE COVER

13

GOING HIS WAY?

Lenny Kravitz spends an evening at the Comerica Theatre

41

LIFEHOUSE IS ‘ALL IN’

Pop band’s Gilbert-born drummer still shairng ‘moments’ with fans

on the cover: James Carter, playing the Tempe Center for the Arts in November Cover photo courtesy Vincent Soyez

6

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2019

46

Times Media Group 1620 W. Fountainhead Parkway Suite 219, Tempe, AZ 85282 Phone 480.348.0343 Fax 480.348.2109 entertainermag.com

TACKLING ADVERSITY

publisher

Steve T. Strickbine

steve@entertainermag.com

Two Arizona teens are scoring points with area youth

Managing Editor

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

christina@timespublications.com

Assistant Editor Connor Dziawura

cdziawura@timespublications.com

designer

CONTENTS

UPFRONT

Shannon Mead

production manager

8

Courtney Oldham

production@timespublications.com

Top 25 • Drone Racing League • Lenny Kravitz

CITY

circulation director Aaron Kolodny

14

aaron@entertainermag.com

contributing writers

UFO Congress Convention • Kiana Lede • Sean Dillingham

TRAVEL

20

Restaurateur Lisa Dahl of Sedona

ARTS

22

Ib Andersen • Fall Arts Preview • Arizona Regional Theater • Lakeshore Music • Peter Scolari of “Man of La Mancha”

DINING

34

Dining Calendar • Eggstasy

BEER AND WINE

38

Beer and Wine Calendar • Sedona Winefest

CASINOS

40

53 58

COOL FOR FANS

Squeeze will cover its songbook during its Chandler show

Alison Bailin Batz, Kristine Cannon, Shane Crowe, Chris Fahrendorf, Laura Latzko, Eric Newman, Taylor O’Connor, Kevin Reagan, Bridgette Redman, Katie Sawyer, Octavio Serrano, Natalie Urquiza

Staff Photographers

Kimberly Carrillo, Pablo Robles

Contributing Photographers

CLUB SCENE

Track Club is about to open its doors

Monica Bradburn/Arizona Diamondbacks, Danny Clifford, Marcus Cooper, Sergio Necoechea, Frank Ockenfels, Sarah Sachs/Arizona Diamondbacks, Toronto Blue Jays

ONE COPY PER READER

Casino Entertainment Calendar • Lifehouse

SPORTS

43

Sports Calendar • Arizona Fall League • Phoenix Rising • Josh Rojas

FAMILY

48

Family Calendar • Great Wolf Lodge

MUSIC

50

Live Music Calendar • Squeeze • New Power Generation • David Crosby • Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers

NIGHTLIFE

56

Nightlife Calendar • Track Club • Mad Mixologist

IN CLOSING

The Entertainer! is circulated throughout the Phoenix Metro area, especially concentrated in entertainment districts. ©2018 Affluent Publishing, LLC. A free online subscription is available to all readers simply by going to entertainermag.com/subscribe.

For calendar and news items, the deadline for submission is the 15th of the NOVEMBER prior to publication. Submissions are included based on available space and are used at the discretion of the editor. Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations will not be returned unless it is specifically requested and submission is accompanied by a properly addressed envelope and sufficient postage. The Entertainer! makes every effort to authenticate claims and accurate times and event locations. We encourage readers to verify information prior to attending events or purchasing tickets.

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TOP25 Taylor O'Connor » The Entertainer!

K. Flay

SEPTEMBER 3 Get ready to rock out with K. Flay, who is going on tour for her new album, “Solutions.” K. Flay kicked off her career with 2014’s “Life as a Dog.” Two years later, she inked a deal with Interscope Records, has been nominated for two Grammys and released two EPs. This show will be rocking and fun.

Marquee Theatre, 730 N. Mill Avenue, Tempe, luckymanonline. com, 7:30 p.m. $22, 13 and older.

Stafford and the Detroit Lions.

State Farm Stadium, 1 Cardinals Drive, Phoenix, arizonacardinals.com, 1:25 p.m., tickets start at $44.

2019 Tunnel to Towers 5K Run and Walk

SEPTEMBER 8 The Tunnel to Towers Run and Walk honors those who served during the 9/11 attacks. This run was founded in New York and spread its way across the country to commemorate the sacrifices of the brave people during this difficult time in our country.

Tempe Beach Park, 80 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, tunnel2towers.org, 7:30 to 11 a.m., various levels of registration.

its debut album, “Now, Not Yet,” and its groovy sound. After forming in 2016, the group gained momentum single “Still Feel.” This led to Half•alive’s 2017 major-label debut, “3.” The band’s sound is influenced by R&B, funk and soul with an alternative rock twist.

Crescent Ballroom, 308 N. Second Avenue, Phoenix, crescentphx. com, 8 p.m., $23-$25.

Micheladas Fest John Mayer

SEPTEMBER 10 John Mayer’s career began in 1997 with Clay Cook in a band called the Lo-Fi Masters. Once they split, Mayer branched out on his own and faced several label issues, but grew to find his blues-inspired sound. He’ll soon make his way to the desert.

Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, talkingstickresortarena.com, 7:30 p.m., tickets begin at $54.

SEPTEMBER 14 For those of you who are uncultured, a michelada is a summer beer drink that’s made with a mixture of cold light beer, fresh lime juice, hot sauce and savory ingredients like Worcestershire sauce.

Judge if this is a thumb’s up or down at the Micheladas Fest.

Rancho Ochoa, 6638 W. Broadway Road, Phoenix, eventbrite.com, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., tickets start at $20.

BrunchFest

SEPTEMBER 14 Mimosas, bloody marys, coffee, waffles and crepes are plenty of reasons to stop and grab brunch.

Hosted by Rock the Fork, this year’s BrunchFest will have all of this and more. They will have local coffee roasters, mixologists from top local bars and chefs representing restaurants and bakeries from across the state. Have a little self control on the mimosas and bloody marys, keep it PG-13, please.

Unexpected Art Gallery, 734 W. Polk Street, Phoenix, rockthefork. com, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., $25.

SEPTEMBER 12 TO SEPTEMBER 15 Live it up at the Galaxy Dance Festival, a Latin ballroom dance competition. If you’re a little stiff and your hips don’t move like that, it is OK. Spectators are welcome to watch and enjoy their time at the Biltmore Arizona Resort and Spa. Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa, 2400 E. Missouri Avenue, Phoenix, galaxydancefestival. com, various times and prices.

Half•alive

SEPTEMBER 14 This fledgling band is pushing

SEPTEMBER 14 Presented by Estrella Jalisco, Hispanic Heritage Day features a pregame fiesta and a Los D-backs replica jersey giveaway for the first 20,000. Oh, and there’s a game, too.

Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, dbacks.com, 5:10 p.m., tickets start at $22.

My-Oh-My-Apple Pie Weekend

Galaxy Dance Festival

Arizona Cardinals vs.

Detroit Lions

SEPTEMBER 8 The Cardinals usher in a new era with quarterback Kyler Murray and coach Kliff Kingsbury and hope for big things this season, which kicks off against Matthew

PHX » CITY » LOCAL » PRIDE » DO » SEE

Arizona Diamondbacks vs.

Cincinnati Reds

Bachata Festival

SEPTEMBER 5 TO SEPTEMBER 9 Bachata Addiction Productions presents the second Phoenix Bachata Festival, an experience all about music and dance. Come to The Wigwam and experience three days and four nights of bachata, salsa, zouk and kizomba dance workshops, pool parties, performances, social dancing and five live Bachata concerts by world-renowned artists.

The Wigwam, 300 E. Wigwam Boulevard, Litchfield Park, phoenixbachatafestival.com, various times, $25-$280.

UPFRONT

Rockin’ Taco Street Fest

SEPTEMBER 14 Tacos are little pieces of happiness wrapped in a tortilla. Come eat all of the tacos your stomach can handle at the Rockin’ Taco Street Fest. Tacos get even better when accompanied by fresh fruit frescas, cerveza and of course, margaritas.

Other features include wrestling, eating competitions, mariachi, a niños playzone and a pinata party.

Tickets are for admission only and do not include food or beverages.

Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 178 E. Commonwealth Avenue, Chandler, rockintacoaz. com, noon to 9 p.m., $12.

SEPTEMBER 14 AND SEPTEMBER 15 Nothing says fall like stuffing your face with apple pie. The sweet aroma, the apple-cinnamon addictive taste makes mouths water and pretty soon you eat a whole pie all by yourself. At OhMy-Apple Pie weekend, it is OK to do just that. Join the celebration of all-things apple pie, from breakfast with pancakes and apple pie syrup, to sampling all the apple pies throughout the day and finishing it off with apple pie crumb ice cream.

Apple Annie’s Orchard, 2081 W. Hardy Road, Willcox, appleannies.com, various hours, free admission.

Breaking Benjamin

SEPTEMBER 15 This American rock band formed in 1999 and released its first album three years later. They briefly broke

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

Maryland Avenue, Glendale, gilariverarena.com, 7 p.m., tickets start at $54.75.

up in 2010, but returned with “Dark Before Dawn” in 2015. Supporting its latest album, “Ember,” Breaking Benjamin is bringing Chevelle, Three Days Grace, Dorothy and Diamante along for the ride.

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 2121 N. 83rd Avenue, Phoenix, livenation.com, 5:30 p.m., ticket start at $29.50.

Hot Mic! Stand-Up Comedy Open Mic

SEPTEMBER 17 Do you think you’re really funny?

Test it out at the first and Downtown Phoenix’s only comedy open mic night at the Crescent Ballroom.

It may be a trainwreck, but it’s all about self-growth, right? Plus, being around other people making fools of themselves only makes it easier.

Crescent Ballroom, 308 N. Second Avenue, Phoenix, crescentphx. com, 9 p.m., free admission.

Lenny Kravitz

SEPTEMBER 18 Millennials know him as someone who died in the second “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire,” but, really, he’s a true rock star. He’ll make a stop in Phoenix to push his latest album, “Raise Vibration,” and his 30-year discography.

Comerica Theatre, 400 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, comericatheatre.com, 7:30 p.m., tickets start at $58.50.

Arizona Donut and Ice Cream Festival

Arizona Margarita, Mojito, Craft Beer, and Food Truck Festival

SEPTEMBER 21 Gather your friends and get a cold margarita on the rocks, or a refreshing mojito — or one for each hand. Grab a bite to eat at one of the many food trucks at the Arizona Margarita, Mojito, Craft Beer and Food Truck Festival.

Plus, it is a dog-friendly event. This celebration just gets better and better.

Riverview Park, 2100 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Mesa, eventbrite. com, 4 to 10 p.m., $50.

Toto

SEPTEMBER 21 It’s about time we blessed the rains down in Africa. Come celebrate with Toto as it brings its blessings to the desert. Since forming, Toto has released 14 studio albums, has sold over 40 million records and has been inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame Museum.

Celebrity Theatre, 440 N. 32nd Street, Phoenix, celebritytheatre. com, 8 p.m., $78.

SEPTEMBER 22 Ice cream and donuts are a dangerous combination, but they’re so sweet and innocent, they’re hard to resist. Come to The Pressroom and try donuts and ice cream from more than 15 local shops. Donuts and ice cream will be $5 or less, there will be card games and board games free to play and local artists showcasing their work.

The Pressroom, 441 W. Madison Street, Phoenix, eventbrite.com, noon to 4 p.m., tickets start at $8.

Culinary Fight Club: The Blended Burger Battle

SEPTEMBER 23 Looks like rule No. 1 was broken about fight club, but if it’s food, does it count? This high-energy competition is less about fistfights and more about making good food.

Attendees can watch contestants, from home cooks to executive chefs, choose from limited pantry of fresh ingredients and have an hour to create gourmet dishes that represent the monthly theme. This month’s theme: the perfect burger.

The Vig McDowell Mountain, 10199 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale, culinaryfightclub. com, 6 to 9 p.m., $25.

high-heel relay race. Each relay has different levels of heels, from kitten heels to stilettos. All proceeds go toward women’s safety and opportunities in life.

Flo’s on Seventh, 4116 N. Seventh Avenue, Phoenix, flocrit.org, 7 a.m., tickets start at $25.

Lewis Capaldi

SEPTEMBER 28 Get launched into a spiral of sadness and emotions with Lewis Capaldi, as the Scottish singer tours to support his debut album. The 22-year-old’s success began with his single, “Someone You Loved,” which spent seven weeks at the top of the U.K. Singles Chart, making it one of the country’s longest No. 1 singles. The man has the voice of an angel and the ability to make people cry with one note.

The Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren Street, Phoenix, thevanburenphx. com, 8 p.m., tickets start at $25.

Goldrush Music Festival

Chocolate and Art Show

SEPTEMBER 20 TO SEPTEMBER 22 It’s time to be classy and look at art, like all of those fancy people in the movies.

Do not stuff your face with chocolate and then leave with more chocolate in your purse. That is not appropriate nor human-like. There are going to be Phoenix’s finest up-and-coming artists and photographers; the free chocolate is not the only focus. There is also live music, face painting, live portraits, and did I mention, free chocolate?

Unexpected Art Gallery, 734 W. Polk Street, Phoenix, eventbrite. com, 8 p.m., $15-$25.

Chance the Rapper

SEPTEMBER 22 Be ready to "Juke Jam" all night and have "No Problems" with Chance the Rapper. The Chicago-born performer is going on tour for his 2019 album, “The Big Day.” The Grammy winner is expected to put on quite the show.

Gila River Arena, 9400 W.

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SEPTEMBER 27 AND SEPTEMBER 28 Instead of digging for gold, let’s enjoy some golden music. Hosted

by Relentless Beats, the two-day festival brings the likes of Adventure Club, Alison Wonderland, Bijou, Destructo, Ghastly, Troyboi and Zhu. Dance and jam out from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. with a few pals.

Rawhide Western Town and Event Center, 5700 W. North Loop Road, Chandler, relentlessbeats.com, 5 p.m., tickets start at $159.

Heels for Healing and Annual Diva Dash

SEPTEMBER 28 Support young women in need by coming to the heels drive. Get designer shoes at a fraction of the cost and participate in the Diva Dash games, the fabulous

Downtown Phoenix Oktoberfest

SEPTEMBER 28 Your favorite lederhosen can finally come out of the closet for this year’s Oktoberfest. Enjoy all the German beer, brats, schnitzel and pretzels you can consume while dancing to the best polka music in town. Test your skills in several competitions including steinholding, brat-eating, pretzel-eating and beer maid costume contests.

Civic Space Park, 424 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, dtphxoktoberfest.com, 3 to 9 p.m., tickets start at $10.

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

‘NASCAR IN THE AIR’ Drone Racing League brings speed to Chase Field Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

W

hen Paul Nurkkala received a drone from his in-laws for Christmas, he immediately started challenging himself. He flew his drones through and around obstacles for as long as he could.

“In that process, I broke it,” he says with a laugh. “I thought to myself, ‘I’m an engineer. I should be able to put this back together.”

He went online and, through YouTube University, he learned about fixing drones and came across drone racing.

Now “NURK,” as he’s known, is the 2018 DRL Allianz World Champion pilot. He’ll be part of the Drone Racing League’s first official live U.S.-based DRL race — 2019 DRL Allianz World Championship Season Level 5: Phoenix — to Chase Field at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, September 8.

“It’s a new brand-new event for us in Phoenix,” says Ryan Holmstedt, Chase Field’s vice president of ticket sales and events.

“This is the first live show they’ve done in a stadium environment. The best way we’ve heard it described is ‘NASCAR in the air.’ The drones are going upward of 90 to 100 miles per hour. There are going to be collisions and crashes, which is what makes it so unique.”

The drones will race at various elevations, Holmstedt says. The seating area will be contained behind home plate on the first level.

“All spectators will be protected with netting all around them,” Holmstedt says. “The race is going to be vertical and all over the ballpark. The drones will race right over the tops of their heads.”

Holmstedt and Nurkkala stress that it’s important to see it live.

“The appreciation of seeing it live is pretty exciting,” Holmstedt says. “You get a whole new sense of how fast those things are really going, and the skill set

ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

of the drivers to maneuver the different turns just around the ballpark in general going 90 miles per hour is pretty impressive.”

DRL is the global, professional drone racing circuit for elite FPV (first-person view) pilots. Recognized internationally as the sport of the future, DRL combines world-class media and proprietary technology to create thrilling 3D drone racing content with mass appeal.

DRL pilots will race using a transmitter and pair of FPV goggles, which showcase a live video feed from a camera mounted on the drone, as the crowd experiences the immersive sensation of FPV flight through the same projected drone’s-eye footage on the jumbotrons.

“Our drones are the highest-qualitypossible speed drones you’re going to see live,” says Nurkkala, who threw out the first pitch at Chase Field earlier this summer.

“They go 0 to 90 in less than a second. We have fan zones, where fans can meet pilots and try a simulator. You’ll want to come for every bit of it. We’re looking forward to this more than any other race. It’s a party but it’s a serious competition as well.”

The drivers will compete in different heats, four drones at a time, until it narrows down to one final race.

“The unique thing about the drivers is they come from all over the world,” Nurkkala says. “They have a variety of backgrounds.”

Holmstedt is excited to bring the event to Chase Field.

“I don’t think Phoenix has seen an event quite like this before,” he says. “In some ways, it’s a look into the future, not just for us as a building, but for sports and entertainment in general.”

2019 DRL Allianz World Championship Season Level 5: Phoenix Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 1.800.745.3000, 602.514.8400, ticketmaster.com, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, September 8, $15.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2019

13

ALWAY S ON TH E RUN

Lenny Kravitz keeps busy with music, design and acting Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

L

enny Kravitz likes to look forward.

On tour and hitting the Comerica Theatre on Wednesday, September 18, Kravitz will perform hits like “Let Love Rule” and “Mama Said.” But part of his 2 ½ hour set will be dedicated to tracks from his 2018 critically acclaimed album “Raise Vibration.”

“We’ve been enjoying playing as much of the repertoire as we can,” Kravitz says.

“I’m also playing a substantial amount of new music, which has been going over really well. It’s encouraging.

“We’ve been playing three or four numbers of ‘Raise Vibration.’ The shows have been powerful for us and for the audience. It’s been an exercise in community and unity and that’s what it’s really about — playing the songs, being there, playing a show and the connection between all of us.”

Kravitz elevates the union of rock, funk, blues and soul on his 11th fulllength album. The rocker felt like he was reborn during the recording process.

“It was beautiful,” he says. “It was exactly what I needed. It was exactly what was given to me. I was given this whole album in a succession of dreams.

“You can always have ideas about what you think you want to do. I play everything and write it. I play lots of different styles. There are a lot of

different colors I can use and places I can go. Sometimes it can make a difference to know where I want to go. In the beginning, I was not sure where I wanted to go. After driving the whole thing and putting my head into it, I walked away from the studio, closed the door and a couple weeks later, I was dreaming this music.”

One of those dreams brought the single “It’s Enough,” a powerful take on the tense, decisive rumination on the global state of affairs.

“People are standing up. I’ve had enough of racism. I’ve had enough of war. I’ve had enough of the destruction of the environment and the greed and dishonesty of world leaders,” Kravitz says.

“We’ve got to get back on track toward moving forward through higher understanding.”

Reveling in the soul, rock and funk influences of the ’60s and ’70s, Kravitz is known as a writer, producer and multiinstrumentalist who won Grammy Awards and set the record for the most wins in the Best Male Rock Performance category.

In addition to his 10 studio albums, which have sold 40 million copies worldwide, Kravitz segued into film, appearing as Cinna in the box-office hits, “The Hunger Games” and “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.” Kravitz can also be seen in the critically acclaimed films “Precious” and “The Butler.”

His creative firm Kravitz Design Inc. has lent its talents to hotel properties, condo projects, private residences and brands like Rolex, Leica and Dom Perignon.

Kravitz is modest about his success.

“When you remove your ideas — not that you can’t use your ideas — you

remove all that and say, ‘OK, give me what I’m supposed to have, and remove ego and everything from it, it’s a beautiful experience,” he says.

“Things come when they are meant to come. That’s the way it’s always worked, from my first album to now. Things come as they come. It may be different than what you thought would come.”

An Evening with Lenny Kravitz Comerica Theatre, 400 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, 602.379.2800, comericatheatre.com, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, September 18, tickets start at $58.50.

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14

CITY

STYLE » ENVY » PASSION » FASHION » BEAUTY » DESIGN

EXPLORING THE UNBELIEVABLE Navy veteran Kevin Day to speak at UFO Conference

Shane Crowe >> The Entertainer!

I

n November 2004, Navy Senior Chief Kevin Day, an operations specialist aboard the USS Princeton, became a key witness to one of the most notable UFO events. Now, in advance of the early September 2019 UFO Congress in Phoenix, Day says he will set off with a crew of scientists and UFO hunters to seek out the paranormal once again.

The initial encounter occurred November 10, 2004, to November 16, 2004, when Day was part of the USS Nimitz Strike Group on the California coast.

During training exercises, Day noticed abnormalities on the radar display.

“The first time I saw them, there were six of them I believe, and they were in a tight group formation right off of Catalina Island,” Day says.

Day marked their altitude at about 28,000 feet and their speed at around 100 knots, approximately 116 miles per hour, which is “really, really slow for that altitude,” Day says.

“It was almost like watching snowflakes fall on a really calm winter day. They stayed at relatively the same spacing from one another, they were going from north to south on my display, from top to bottom, really slow.”

Although Day attempted unsuccessfully to identify the objects, he did not consider them a threat as the objects mostly maintained their snowlike behavior.

“I wasn’t really worried about them until the morning of the 14th,” Day says. “We were going to do a big huge air defense exercise, the air wing had just arrived on the carrier, and we were ready to go out there and play, but it was in the same piece of sky. At that point, I became concerned because I knew that at the very least these things were a safety of flight concern.”

Day consulted with the captain, suggesting someone investigate the strange objects that were unidentified. The captain agreed.

“So, I found the closest (pilot), Cmdr.

(David) Fravor happened to be up, we just happened to take his flight, we vectored him in that direction and that intercept changed the course of human history, it appears,” Day says.

Fravor approached the oblong, pillshaped object. On Day’s radar display, a two-dimensional representation of threedimensional space, Fravor approached the merge plot, a point at which two objects occupying different space look like they are in the same position on the radar display.

“As soon as he was ‘merged’ with that contact, that object fell out of the sky from 28,000 feet down to the surface of the ocean in less than one second,” Day says. “No sonic booms.”

According to Day’s instruments, the object fell in exactly .78 seconds, which means the object had to be moving at about 24,000 miles per hour. According to NASA, the current air speed record for a manned flight is 7,000 miles per hour, a mere 32% of the speed of this unidentified craft.

Fravor pursued the object to the surface of the water, at which point the object went back up to 28,000 feet and continued on its southward course at 100 knots.

More interceptors were sent up to

investigate the other objects.

“They started going that direction and these things reacted to them just by falling out of the sky,” Day says. “At one point, it was actually raining UFOs.” Despite the strange behavior of the objects, there still did not seem to be any hint of hostility.

“The feeling at combat was one of profound bewilderment,” Day says. “We didn’t know what the hell these things were. If they had been hostile, there is absolutely nothing we could’ve done to protect ourselves from these things.”

Fortunately, the objects simply continued south at their patient pace.

Recently, the Navy and the Air Force have created a formalized process for reporting encounters with UFOs, now commonly referred to as UAPs (unexplained aerial phenomena) to destigmatize such reports, according to a report from Politico.

“I am so damn proud of my Navy right now I could hug it,” Day says. “To stand up and say to the world, ‘We confirmed the existence of UAPs and we’re going to change our policy’ that’s huge. That’s never happened before.”

Official reports from the Navy and the Air Force do not confirm or deny the existence of UAPs or UFOs but emphasize that enough sightings and

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2019

encounters from credible personnel have occurred to merit an official reporting procedure and subsequent investigations.

“I wouldn’t call it disclosure. I would call it confirmation though,” Day says.

At the time of the Nimitz encounter, however, the formal guidelines did not exist. Despite this, Day intended to write an after-action message about the encounter. When Day went to review the records from the previous day, all the data was gone. He never wrote the afteraction message.

“I don’t think anything nefarious happened,” Day says. “I don’t think this was a planned experiment on top of our

exercise. First of all, that’s illegal, you can’t do that because people could get hurt. It’s just not the way we do stuff in the Navy. If I could summarize Navy exercises in a single word it would be ‘safety.’”

Day speculates the objects appeared on his display because of a top-secret upgrade to their cooperative engagement capabilities.

“I think big Navy was just as surprised as I was, that we could suddenly track and see UFOs,” he says.

“That’s my speculation on it. I could be wrong, I understand that. I don’t know what else to think, that makes the

The Arizona Museum of Natural History presents

most sense to me,” he says.

In recent years, as exemplified by the updated Navy and Air Force guidelines, the attitude toward these encounters has shifted as more light is shed on the subject.

In 2017, the New York Times released an article detailing The Pentagon’s clandestine Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program run by intelligence official Luis Elizondo.

According to the article, the program was run from 2007 to 2012, although Elizondo claims the only thing that ended in 2012 was the program’s official funding.

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The only remaining evidence from the USS Nimitz encounter was also released in 2017 and it shows infrared footage of what appears to be a large, oblong, floating object in the sky.

“I think there’s been a paradigm shift just in the last few months,” Day says.

“People are openly talking about it.”

Day also credits the type of alien and UFO programs that appear on the History Channel with the normalization of UFO and UAP discussion.

On September 7, Day will speak at the UFO Congress in Phoenix, a gathering of those with an interest or experience with UFOs. He will partake in a question-and-answer segment and make a special announcement.

“Long story short, we’re going back out there,” Day says. “We’re going to rent a research vessel and we’re going to anchor off San Clemente Island in November of 2020. We expect to see a UAP go by.”

Day has teamed up with the Silicon Valley UFO Hunters and assembled an eclectic crew of quantum physicists, NASA scientists, physics professors and a trained astronaut. He has even invited Elizondo to join them on the excursion.

“These are all real sober people,” Day says. “We all know we could be wrong.”

UFO Congress Sheraton Phoenix Downtown, 340 N. Third Street, Phoenix, ufocongress.com, 8 a.m.

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Sunday, September 8, various ticket packages available.

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g n i d n Fi f l e s r e H

UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

Phoenix’s Kiana Ledé ready to debut her headlining show at home Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

P

hoenix native Kiana Ledé played The Van Buren last Halloween, opening for British vocal powerhouse Jessie J. But now, the Mountain Pointe High School graduate is headlining the Marquee Theatre in Tempe and couldn’t be any prouder.

“I’m so excited. I can’t wait,” Ledé says quietly. “Hometown shows are, of course, important. They’re like a talent show when you’re a kid. I get the chance to show my friends and family what I’ve been working on this entire time in Los Angeles.”

Born to a Mexican and Native American mother and an African American and Native American father, Ledé says she started singing right after learning the ABCs at 15 months old.

She made her TV debut on “The Today Show” and performed during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in 2012.

Ledé has been living in California since she left Mountain Pointe at age 16. Ledé was first known for her reimagining of Drake’s “Hotline Bling,” which amassed 40 million cumulative plays, and her “One Dance x Needed

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Me Mash Up” clocked over 3.6 million Spotify streams and soared to No. 1 on Spotify’s coveted Global Viral Chart.

To date, her YouTube channel has generated 50 million-plus views and counting. Her single “Big Spender” from the film “Fifty Shades Freed” generated over 8 million streams on Spotify.

Recently, she released the EP “Myself,” and previously performed on North American stages with Ro James and Jessie J. In addition to music, she was a co-star on Rev Run’s new Netflix series “All About The Washingtons” and starred in season two of MTV’s hit show “Scream.”

Recently, Vevo named Ledé, along with AJ Mitchell, a 2019 LIFT act, which connects up-and-coming artists to audiences around the globe through video content.

“We’re proud to welcome Kiana Ledé and AJ Mitchell to the 2019 LIFT program,” says JP Evangelista, Vevo’s senior vice president of content, programming and marketing.

“Both artists are rising stars who have the potential to make a true mark on the music industry. We look forward to showing the world their individual talents. LIFT plays a big part in our commitment to artist development, so it’s great to expand our 2019 roster.

We’ve been working with both Kiana and AJ for some time now, and helping them grow their audiences on our platform is truly rewarding.”

Ledé is doing fine. She’s headlining shows, which, she boasts, feature “lots of energy and twerking.” She’ll also offer a sneak peek into a super-secret solo project that she didn’t feel comfortable chatting about.

The six-song “Myself” features her latest release “Can I,” whose accompanying video garnered over 800,000 YouTube/VEVO views and Spotify streams. The EP shows off Ledé’s diversity. Her powerful vocals accompany the emotional ballad “Heavy,” and she trades bars with rapper Offset during the high-energy single “Bouncin’.”

“It was pretty easy for me to write all the songs myself,” she says about “Myself.” “All the music I write is based on personal experiences. It’s like therapy.

It’s very therapeutic. I can’t survive without doing it. I’m a very open person.

I’ll share anything. It’s exhausting to be that type of person.”

She started “Selfless” after she ended a relationship so she could learn more about herself and experience Los Angeles.

“I could only do that fully independently,” she says. “I used to be the type of person who learned about myself based on what other people say.

They would tell me if I was good this way or that way. Now, I can say — after spending time with myself — I’m a very energetic, loyal, really stubborn, competitive with myself and I’m very hard on myself.

“I’m also the biggest cheerleader.

When my friends do anything, I’m there for them. I’m the one screaming the loudest for whatever it is.”

As a teen, Ledé had her own set of cheerleaders, who included Bobb Cooper with Valley Youth Theatre.

“Bobb is such a smiley, happy guy,” she says. “Even in my serious moments in life as a kid, I felt comfortable around him.

Everything was OK when I was with him.”

Kiana Ledé The Marquee Theatre, 730 N. Mill Avenue, Tempe, 480.829.0607, luckymanonline.com, 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, September 11, tickets start at $41. Early-entry and meet-and-greet packages available.

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cottsdale Sean Dillingham has acted in more than 100 commercials, 40 feature films and several big-time television series. He’s been acting as long as he can remember.

Whether he’s on the silver screen, on small local improv stages, in stand-up comedy clubs or at a 9-to-5 job, he has never lost his passion for the art.

He is gearing up for big projects.

In September, he’ll appear in AMC’s “Breaking Bad” spinoff “Better Call Saul.”

The following month, his “Rattlesnake” hits Netflix. “Rattlesnake” tells the story of a single mother who accepts the help of a mysterious woman after her daughter is bitten by a rattlesnake. She finds herself forced to pay back her “debt” by killing a stranger in Texas.

Around Christmas, he’ll appear in the theatrical wrestling film “Manson Brothers Midnight Zombie Massacre.”

The movie tells the story of aging wrestlers trying to live off their names.

Dillingham says there are talks of a sequel already.

Dillingham is doing something a little off-kilter this fall. He’ll play a character called Bison in a short film at the beginning of the videogame “Wasteland 3.” It will be simultaneously released to Windows, Mac, Linux, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. “They did a fundraising campaign,” he says. “They raised $3 million in 24 hours. I went up to Colorado and they didn’t want to do what everyone else is doing. They wanted to go old school with live-action actors.

“It takes place in this really, really cool, post-apocalyptic world. I play this mean SOB called Bison.”

What keeps him acting, he says, is the creativity he can — and must — express to share a character well.

“It’s always something new, and it suits me well because every week it’s a different job,” Dillingham says. “They say this week you’re going to be a cowboy. Next week you’re going to be a monster. The week after that you’re going to be a cop. I enjoy the variety.”

Dillingham — who attended Catalina High School in Tucson and graduated from Marcos de Niza High School in Tempe — says the difficulty of acting encourages him to continually work at his game. The art is “a constant challenge,” which necessitates growth and self-reflection to best play the parts in which he is cast.

“If it gets easy, to me, that means I’m not growing,” Dillingham says. “I know actors, well-known actors, who are cast in the same roles. They keep walking into every movie as the same character they were doing years ago. I don’t ever want that to happen to me.”

Like many actors who work as much as Dillingham, the lure of Los Angeles and Hollywood is constantly in the background. However, he says he is extremely happy in his Valley home.

He auditions three or four times a week, but many of them are taped and sent via email or through servers to casting agencies. He also appreciates Phoenix’s close proximity to Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas and Colorado. If he secures a role in any movie or show, he can drive to the set relatively easily.

He also simply thinks it is not necessary to live in California to succeed as an actor in 2019.

“I believe Hollywood is a state of mind,” he says. “I don’t think it’s a physical place anymore, especially nowadays with the internet, cellphones and how connected people are. I don’t really think it’s really necessary at the same level it used to be to live there,” he says.

Dillingham also prefers to stay here because he doesn’t consider himself a “star.” It’s hard to agree completely, as he has played parts that leave him recognizable to those interested in film and television.

But, just like Hollywood, Dillingham’s career is based on the mindset of acting.

He differentiates acting from the red carpets and upscale movie star events that the uninitiated covet.

“That, to me, is not being an actor.

Being an actor is, I have to act. If I don’t have an audition or a project coming up in two or three weeks around my home, I become unbearable,” he says.

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TRAVEL

VACATION » SIGHTS » DAY TRIPS » ADVENTURE » EXPLORE » TRAVEL

Butterfly Kisses Lisa Dahl opens a new Sedona restaurant concept with her son’s divine help

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

L

isa Dahl didn’t set out to become a chef or a restaurateur. She wanted to fulfill the dining experience.

She does so through the Wine Spectator award-winning Sedona restaurants Dahl & Di Luca Ristorante Italiano, Cucina Rustica, Pisa Lisa and Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill, which bring in about 400,000 guests annually.

“I try to design a package that fulfills the dining experience and I do that in a fast-casual pizzeria and with what is considered the finest dining establishment in Sedona,” she says.

Recently, Dahl was honored as the first recipient of the Best Chefs of America Hall of Fame Award by National Elite, an invitation-only, membership-based culinary organization that supports the best restaurants, chefs and restaurateurs across the country.

“I feel this particular recognition

(shows) the intricacies of what (being a restaurateur) entails in a different way than, say, a James Beard Award, which everybody and their brother and sister would love to have, including myself,” she says.

“This recognition made me realize all the more that wearing all of these hats is no small feat.”

The 2019 awards nomination process was open to the public and winners were chosen by a panel of industry influencers comprised of established food critics and tasting judges, organized by National Elite.

“This year, we considered a number of legendary restaurants, top chefs and renowned restaurateurs that are among the best in the culinary industry and Chef Dahl stood out to us above the others as we feel she truly embodies the next level of excellence our organization stands for,” says Jack Tien, CEO of National Elite.

SELF-TAUGHT TALENT Dahl grew up in the Bloomington, Indiana, countryside and moved to the Bay Area when she was in her 20s to

chase her “hippie life.”

“I lived there and worked in the fashion business,” she says. “I think a lot of my more refined cooking aspirations were heeded there.”

Her only child, Justin Wesley Jones, 23, was killed when he tried to break up a robbery in San Francisco’s HaightAshbury district on March 27, 1994. The killer was convicted of second-degree murder. Soon after his death, she packed her belongings and relocated to Sedona.

“Sedona was a place that was known

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2019

for healing,” she says. “I thought it would be something I could try. I got to know people and took a lot of time to myself. I took hikes and felt the healing properties of nature.”

A year later, Dahl decided to be a restaurateur with Dahl & Di Luca Ristorante Italiano. Dahl introduced fine dining to Sedona more than 20 years ago and has since expanded to become the largest restaurant group in the area. Dahl also plans to open two new restaurants, Butterfly Burger, a “couture burger lounge” in September, and a second Pisa Lisa location.

“That was my passion and my survival at the time,” she says.

Dahl and her restaurants have since been featured on The Food Network’s

“Beat Bobby Flay”, Travel + Leisure, Forbes.com, Thrillist.com, USA Today, The New York Times, Wine Spectator, Travel Channel’s “Food Paradise,” Huffington Post, MSN.com and Marie Claire. Dahl is also best-selling cookbook author with “The Elixir of Life” in circulation worldwide and a new book in the works.

“Tapas or antipasti are my favorite parts of dining because in all of our restaurants, those are to be shared,” Dahl says. “I think the dining experience is about the layering of flavors and textures and colors.

“I really roll out the red carpet on these categories so people can linger and enjoy more of the full dining experience.

My goal is for my guests to come back.

I was recognized because each of these four restaurants is experiential in a different way.”

At her Italian restaurants, Dahl is known for her Mother Sauce, which is actually her mother’s sauce.

“It’s a kick-ass marinara that can go with all kinds of different dishes,” she says. “It’s what you will crave if you love a very bold — but gentle at the same time — marinara. You will fall in love with that sauce. Whether it’s a Parmesan dish like eggplant Parmesan or lasagna, that is the foundation that sets us apart from others.”

Dahl’s restaurants are known for their delicate veal dishes and seafood

combinations that no one expects in a small town like Sedona, she says.

“I’ve seen it over and over,” Dahl says.

“People from New York or Chicago want to speak to me or give me a compliment.

They can’t believe they find restaurants this refined and delicate and classy in every way in a town that is away from a metropolitan area.”

She’s hoping for the same response to Butterfly Burger.

“I’m so excited about that. I’m like a little kid,” Dahl says. “If you’ve experienced our burgers in the past at Mariposa or at the burger battles that I have been fortunate enough to attend, you’ll see it’s a cute and clever concept that is something different than a fast casual. It’s actually a couture burger lounge. Everybody is talking about it, to be quite honest.”

For each project, she looks to the memory of her son to get her through.

“Justin was a very unique person in that he was always the guy who gave hugs before anybody gave hugs,” she says. “He was a love child. We called him the ‘golden boy.’ He’s the only person I have ever known who even though he is not still here physically on Earth, he is still in people’s hearts and minds.

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“We use him as an inspiration and he’s with me all the time. We don’t call him ‘dead.’ We keep Justin right in our presence all the time. Other people who are experiencing loss will know if you keep them with you in this way, they’re still helping us. I believe he is actually my partner. I feel we co-designed the restaurants. I feel like, ‘Gosh, how did I just do that?’ I was guided.”

Dahl’s restaurants are different, but they have one thing in common: a mantra that she calls “corny.”

“It holds us together in some very special way: When you cook with love you feed the soul,” she says.

“That is the foundation of our belief systems. When I was able to just focus on cooking and making delicious foods, I brought joy to others. It helped me to forget for a period of time my own pain.

We loved having our friends come to our parties and it was always the happiest times in our lives. You don’t see families dining together in the way we have in the past. It’s very upsetting.”

Dahl Restaurant Group For more information, visit dahlrestaurantgroup.com.

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22

ARTS

CULTURE » THEATER » DANCE » GALLERY » DRAMA » VISION

IB ANDERSEN

Ballet Arizona celebrates 20 years with star artistic director Bridgette Redman >> The Entertainer

B

allet Arizona artistic director Ib Andersen is an artist who knows what longevity can achieve.

It can be a rare thing to accomplish in the United States, where arts do not get much public support dollars and the survival rate of individuals in a single position is not very high. But Andersen, who started his formal training at age 7 in Copenhagen, Denmark, is on the verge of celebrating 20 years leading the storied Phoenix ballet company.

“Being able to survive 20 years in this environment is an achievement,” says Andersen, 64.

Under his tenure, the ballet company has built a building with seven studios

— including a black box theater, has performed in the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., has debuted new works in New York, and has been recognized by the New York Times’ lead dance critic as “one of the most enterprising companies anywhere.”

While Andersen says the building, which opened in the 2013-2014 season, wasn’t his accomplishment, he did contribute to it.

“It’s because of a lot of people who have raised money,” Andersen says. “It is indirectly because of me, because people won’t give money unless they know the money is going to something that has some kind of quality.”

The quality that Andersen brings includes a long list of outstanding accomplishments that few ballet artists can lay claim to.

It began in Copenhagen where he

was accepted at age 7 to the School of the Royal Danish Ballet. He joined the official company at age 16 and four years later, became the company’s youngest principal dancer in its history where his claim to fame became performing Romeo.

“My background is very unusual,” Andersen says. “It’s not normal at age 7 that you go do something that intensely as I did. It is unusual, but I had a very superior education. At the time I was promoted (to principal dancer) it was up to the artistic director. I was very young, and I was definitely surprised it had happened because I didn’t really feel I had done enough, but he felt I had shown the personality and the talent to be at that level.”

The Royal Danish Ballet at the time was one of the best companies in the world, he says, and he grew up watching

the extraordinary artists and being a part of its history. It also provided the foundation for the storied career he would have after leaving them.

“The Royal Danish Ballet has a tradition of strong male dancers, very articulated and very pure,” Andersen says. It would get him noticed.

The late George Balanchine, the co-founder and director of the New York City Ballet and a choreographer considered to be “the father of American ballet,” recruited Andersen to join his company in 1980. Andersen learned 35 ballets in his first three months and adapted quickly to the Balanchine style.

So quickly and so well, in fact, that Balanchine created principal roles for him in numerous ballets. Eventually, choreographers such as Jerome Robbins and Peter Martins would do the same, creating parts that showcased Andersen’s

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2019

performance of the Balanchine style.

When Andersen retired from the New York City Ballet, he started a career as a guest ballet master for companies around the world, staging the ballets of those choreographers he had worked with so closely. He is now one of only a handful of artists who have been appointed as a Balanchine Repetiteur, meaning he is authorized to stage Balanchine’s pieces and often does so at Ballet Arizona.

Then in 2000, he came to Phoenix to be the artistic director of Ballet Arizona, the company that is preparing to celebrate his 20th anniversary with them September 26 to September 29 at the Orpheum Theatre. The ballet, called “Director’s Choice,” features a medley of Andersen’s best original works and a new piece and world premiere by Ballet Arizona dancer and choreographer Nayon Iovino.

While it was his style and physicality that got him noticed by the biggest names in ballet, it has been his temperament and commitment that has made him a success in Phoenix. He helped the city’s only professional ballet company to become known throughout the country.

“People are moving to Arizona because I’m there,” Andersen says. “It has mostly to do with my temperament which is once I’m hooked, I don’t easily move to another place. That is what happened here. It’s not been an easy ride, but it never is with this business.”

Ballet Arizona stands out, he says, because they do a lot of things that haven’t been done elsewhere, along with the classics.

“We do it with consistency,” Andersen says. “What is unique is the commitment to the art form here. I’m an intense person. I have a background where I’ve been around the best people and I have the gift to be able to give that to other people in a ballet, which is not an easy thing to do. You are talking about things you can’t really put words to.”

Andersen says his greatest gift now is that of a teacher. He enjoys working with young people, guiding them and trying to give them wings so that their natural talent and their hard work will pay off. Ballet dancers need to get good information if they are going to be able to communicate well with their dancing to an audience, he says. He works hard at communicating how to execute steps, what the quality of the musicality is and what each ballet and each step means.

Without complete information, he says, the audience will see something that isn’t very interesting.

“I’ve been very lucky to work with a lot of very extraordinarily gifted people,” Andersen says. “When you have that information and a commitment to the art form and a passion — I am someone who burns and has an intensity and passion for things — that will drop on, not everyone, but some people for sure.”

Ballet Arizona is a small company, one that typically would struggle to do story ballets because they don’t have enough dancers. However, story ballets are popular and what audiences want to see. So, Andersen has created many new works based on story ballets that fit the company’s size. He’s created new choreography and storytelling for “Romeo and Juliet,” “The Nutcracker,” “Cinderella,” “Swan Lake,” “Sleeping Beauty” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” among others.

“I wouldn’t have done those ballets otherwise, but in order to survive you need to have something you know will sell,” Andersen says.

That hasn’t stopped him from creating new, unique works that are site-specific such as “Topia” that was performed at sunset in the Desert Botanical Garden and another series of five years of performances that is being performed there. He created “Round” a ballet in which the audience sits on all sides. He brings in international works that are new.

The “Director’s Choice” performance will feature three pieces. In addition to the two new works by Andersen and Iovino, they will do “Les Patineurs,” an Arizona premiere by Sir Frederick Ashton, a celebrated English choreographer. It is a one-act series of dance sequences set in a Victorian-era ice rink.

Andersen’s new ballet, “20 Years” will reflect ballets that he’s done in Arizona over the past two decades. He says it will take him four to five weeks to choreograph it, but even though it goes up in September, he says it could take years to really take shape.

“If you do a new ballet, the first time it is performed is not the end result,” Andersen says. “If you do it three years later, that ballet might look completely different, even though you might not have changed anything. Things have fallen into place. Ballet is a super fragile art form. It sometimes takes a while, sometimes years, before it comes into where it should be. It’s all about execution and the dancers you have, but it also has to do with time. Sometimes you put something out and it is clear to a certain degree, but maybe not as clear as it would be three years after. You have to digest on it. In that sense, ballet is a very living art form.”

The rest of Andersen’s 20th anniversary season will include “Napoli,” “The Nutcracker,” “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “All Balanchine” and “An Evening at the Garden.”

Going forward, Andersen is focused on trying to get audiences to understand the unique experience of a live performance. Ballet competes with cellphones and computers and it can be difficult to get people out of their homes, out of their individualized vacuums to collectively experience the same thing with 2,000 other people.

“There’s an energy with that that is extraordinary,” Andersen says. “That is kind of lost today when there are so many options of how to be entertained.

I think performing arts will evolve a lot over the next 20 years. If it is to survive, and it needs to survive, we have to go in new directions. It has to be exciting. That’s my job to figure that one out.”

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“Director’s Choice” Orpheum Theatre, 203 W. Adams Street, Phoenix, balletaz.org, 7 p.m. Thursday, September 26, 7:30 p.m. Friday, September 27, 7:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday, September 28, 1 p.m. Sunday, September 29, tickets start at $34.

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E V A H A T T O G A RT!

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UPFRONT | TCITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

Performances abound at Valley venues this fall Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

T

he fall arts season boasts quality events, ranging from “Man of La Mancha” to “American Idol” alum David Cook to jazz star

James Carter.

Legends are passing through the state as well. The Blind Boys of Alabama hit the Chandler Center for the Arts, while the Stray Cats’ Lee Rocker visits the Higley Center for the Performing Arts.

Venues and theater groups continue to add attractions to their lineups, but here is a highly selective preview of what arts lovers can expect within the next few months.

ARIZONA BROADWAY THEATRE Arizona Broadway Theatre showcases locally and nationally acclaimed artists and provides sit-down table service with themed menu items prepared fresh daily.

With one reservation, patrons can enjoy a full night’s entertainment. Shows are held at the theater, 7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria, unless otherwise noted.

Info: 623.776.8400 or azbroadway.org.

The fall series includes: “Sweeney Todd” October 11 to November 9 “Elf: The Musical” November 22 to December 29

ARIZONA THEATRE COMPANY Arizona Theatre Company’s 2019-20 season, under the theme, “The Curtain Rises,” offers a thoughtful lineup of six shows including Lauren Gunderson’s “Silent Sky;” the powerful musical love story “Cabaret;” Athol Fugard’s story of South Africa in the early years of apartheid, “Master Harold…and The Boys;” and “The Legend of Georgia McBride,” a heartwarming story of Casey, a broke Elvis impersonator with a baby on the way, a co-production with Milwaukee Repertory Theater.

Info: 602.256.6995, arizonatheatre. org.

The fall lineup for 2019-20 includes:

“Anastasia,” along with “Summer” about Donna Summer, and a new production of the classic “Fiddler on the Roof.”

The season lineup continues with a journey to the Caribbean in Tony Award-winning “Once on This Island,” the totally “fetch” “Mean Girls” and “Come from Away,” a true story of 7,000 stranded passengers after 9/11 and the small town that welcomed them.

ASU Gammage is also presenting several season options including Blue Man Group, “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” and Disney’s “The Lion King.”

ASU Gammage is located at 1200 S. Forest Avenue, Tempe. Info: asugammage.com.

The fall season includes: “Miss Saigon” September 24 to September 29 “Anastasia” October 29 to November 3 Season option: Blue Man Group November 15 to November 17

BALLET ETUDES Created by Sharon Seder Meko in 1986 to fulfill the artistic needs of serious young dancers, Ballet Etudes strives to meet the same high artistic standards of a professional company in its dance training, rehearsals and performances.

The season begins with “The Nutcracker” Sweet Tea at 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Saturday, November 23, at Wright House Reception Hall in Mesa.

Tickets are $15 per person or $13 per person for groups of 20 or more. At the event, patrons can meet and take photos with characters from “The Nutcracker,” listen in on a reading of “The Nutcracker” storybook and experience a performance by Ballet Etudes.

For reservations, contact 480.558.2080 or email sweettea@balletetudes.net.

The season includes: “The Nutcracker” November 29 to December 8, at the Chandler Center for the Arts. Info: 480.782.2680, chandlercenter.org.

“Silent Sky” November 14 to December 1 at the Herberger Theater in Phoenix.

“The Nutcracker” December 14 to December 22, at the Mesa Arts Center. Info: 480.644.6500, mesaartscenter.com.

ASU GAMMAGE ASU Gammage’s 2019-2020 Desert Financial Broadway Across America — Arizona season kicks off with the love and war story of “Miss Saigon” this fall, followed by the romantic musical

BLACK THEATRE TROUPE Black Theatre Troupe’s 2019-20 season is complete with award-winning musicals, thought-provoking dramas and the popular holiday tradition, “Black Nativity.”

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HALE CENTRE THEATRE: “THE SCARLET PIMPERNEL” All performances will be held at the Helen K. Mason Performing Arts Center at 1333 E. Washington, Phoenix. Info: 602.258.8129, blacktheatretroupe.org.

The season’s offerings are: “Blues in the Night” September 13 to September 29, a “dramatic revue” of 26 hot and torchy numbers that share the sweet experience of three women and a saloon singer. The timeless music of Duke Ellington, Johnny Mercer, Harold Arlen, Alberta Hunter, Jimmy Cox and Ida Cox helps tell the story.

“Breakfast with Mugabe” October 25 to November 10, gives the audience the chance to eavesdrop on the volcanic conversations between Robert Mugabe, controversial president of Zimbabwe, and his psychiatrist.

Langston Hughes’ “Black Nativity” December 6 to December 22, is a hit every year. A company of singers, actors, dancers and musicians delivers its powerful message of joy, hope, victory and liberation.

BLK BOX PHX BLK BOX PHX values the performing arts as a place where people can be accepted regardless of race, orientation or color.

All performances will be held at The Phoenix Theatre Company, 1825 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix. Info: 602.734.5734, blkboxphx.com.

The season’s offerings are: “The Burn” October 25 to November 10. When

a high school production of Arthur Miller’s classic play “The Crucible” forces students together, tensions escalate into acts of bullying — both online and in real life.

“Bauer” November 22 to December 8. The visceral, visual story of forgotten modern artist, Rudolf Bauer, struggling with his fading place in the history of art as his paintings are removed from the walls of the Guggenheim Museum.

“The Truth about Santa: An Apocalyptic Holiday Tale” December 20 to December 23.

Many people think they know the truth about Santa, but they are wrong. Santa is tired of the lies.

Like the gods of old, he too, has his mortal mistresses. This Christmas Eve he will bring Mary, his favorite earthly consort and their two children back to the North Pole to live with him — forever! Not surprisingly, Mrs. Claus resists.

CHANDLER CENTER FOR THE ARTS Chandler Center for the Arts is celebrating its 30th season serving the community.

The center hosts a broad variety of events and performances throughout the year, including Broadway and theater, comedy, dance, music, family-oriented and seasonal events. The Chandler Center for the Arts is at 250 N. Arizona Avenue, Chandler. Info: 480.782.2680, chandlercenter.org.

Squeeze September 15

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2019

Aaron Neville Duo September 21

“Chato’s Kitchen” November 1 to November 24

New Power Generation September 27

“Ella Enchanted: The Musical” December 7 to December 29

India.Arie September 28

DESERT FOOTHILLS THEATER The award-winning Desert Foothills Theater has been presenting live performances in the far North Valley since 1975. All performances are held at Cactus Shadows Fine Arts Center, 33606 N. 60th Street, Scottsdale, and Holland Community Center, 34250 N. 60th Street, Buildling B, Scottsdale.

Info: 480.488.1081, dftheater.org.

The Australian Pink Floyd Show September 29 Marc Broussard and Samantha Fish October 1 “Take Me to the River: New Orleans Live!”

October 9 “We Will Rock You,” The Musical by Queen and Ben Elton October 13 LeAnn Rimes November 9 “Harlem 100” November 16 Alpin Hong November 22 “Blind Boys of Alabama Christmas Show” December 13

CHILDSPLAY THEATRE Childsplay Theatre is hosting its 43rd season of plays for families that includes five plays at The Herberger Theater Center in Downtown Phoenix. Info: 602.252.8497, childsplayaz.org.

This fall’s offerings include: “The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane” September 8 to October 13

Productions include: “Pirates of Penzance Jr.” September 27 to October 6 “Annie Get Your Gun” Auditions September 16 and September 17, with performances November 8 to November 24; all ages.

“And Then There Were None” Auditions November 16 to November 17, with performances January 17 to January 16; ages 16 and older.

FOUNTAIN HILLS THEATER Fountain Hills Theater presents three regularly scheduled seasons of productions in their two theaters. The theater’s year-round offering includes Mainstage, Mainstage Too! and Youth productions.

The theater has been in operation as a professionally directed community theater for more than 30 years. The mission of Fountain Hills Theater is “to

LAKESHORE MUSIC: BETH LEDERMAN JAZZ engage, inspire and entertain diverse audiences, train and support our youth, and celebrate the essential power of the performing arts.”

Fountain Hills Theater is located at 11445 N. Saguaro Boulevard, Fountain Hills. Info: 480.837.9661 or fhtaz.org.

On the Main Stage: “Mamma Mia” September 6 to September 22 “Agnes of God” October 18 to November 3 “A Christmas Carol: The Musical” December 6 to December 22 Mainstage Too! kicked off with: “My First Time” Which wrapped September 1.

The next show is: “Man of La Mancha” November 8 to November 24 Youth Theater “Frozen Jr” September 27 to October 13 “The Elves and the Shoemaker” December 6 to December 22

HALE CENTRE THEATRE Continuing its tradition of powerhouse musicals and outrageous comedies, Hale Centre Theatre has unveiled its 2019-2020 season of eight musicals and three comedies.

Performances are at the Hale Centre Theatre, 50 W. Page Avenue, in Old Town Gilbert. Info: 480.497.1181, haletheatrearizona.com.

The fall season includes: “Bright Star” Now to October 5 “John Loves Mary” September 24 to November 19, Mondays and Tuesdays “Hello, Dolly!”

October 10 to November 23 “A Christmas Carol” November 29 to December 24

BLACK THEATER TROUPE

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“Barefoot in the Park” December 31 to February 8

HIGLEY CENTER FOR THE ARTS The Higley Center for the Performing Arts is one of the East Valley’s best-kept secrets, seating 1,235 in the concert hall, and 186 in the “Little Theater.”

Each season, it hosts nationally touring artists and entertainers, and is the home for student events and meetings of the Higley Unified School District. Funding for operations and staffing comes from rental income, sponsorships by community businesses and ticket sales.

All shows begin at 7:30 p.m. and are at the Higley Center for the Performing Arts, 4132 E. Pecos Road, Gilbert. Info: 480.279.7190 or visit higleycenter.org.

This fall’s shows include: Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone October 26 Frankie Moreno November 7 The Sun Kings Perform The Beatles’ “White Album” November 15 Lee Rocker of The Stray Cats November 16 Leonid and Friends: A Chicago Tribute November 21 Wizards of Winter, featuring former members of Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Blue Oyster Cult and Def Leppard November 23 “The Nutcracker”

by Southwest Youth Ballet December 13 to December 15 Maureen McGovern Holiday Show December 19 Gentri Holiday Show December 21

LAKESHORE MUSIC Lakeshore Music Inc., a Tempe-based nonprofit will focus on jazz during its nine-show 2019-20 concert series, which includes nine diverse shows.

The monthly concerts are presented at 7:30 p.m. Saturdays at Tempe Center for ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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David Cook November 6 Kinobe November 8 Preservation Hall Jazz Band November 9 Portland Cello Project November 14 Bruce Cockburn November 19 Over the Rhine November 22 Canadian Brass: Christmas Time is Here December 7 Gypsy Soul December 8 Mike Stern and Jeff Lorber Fusion December 13

PHOENIX CHORALE the Arts, 700 W. Rio Salado Parkway.

Info: 480.350.2822, ext. 2, lakeshoremusic.org.

Company and Mariachi Feminil Flores Mexicanas October 22

Guitarist/vocalist Camila Meza September 28

“National Geographic Live!

Akashinga: The Brave Ones” with Damien Mander October 23

Sean Jones October 26 “Queen of Salsa,” Carmela Ramirez November 23 Pianist Beth Lederman and Jazz Con Alma’s “A Winter Solstice Concert” December 21

MESA ARTS CENTER The Mesa Arts Center is in the midst of its new season already, but it continues with top-notch gigs.

The theater is located at 1 E. Main Street, Mesa.

Info: 480.644.6500, mesaartscenter. com.

Kansas: Point of Know Return September 19 Roy Orbison & Buddy Holly: The Rock ‘n’ Roll Dream Tour October 4 Samin Nosrat October 5 Chick Corea Trilogy with Christian McBride and Brian Blade October 6 “The Spouse Whisperer” October 10 to October 13 Dennis DeYoung: The Grand Illusion October 11 Tower of Power October 12 Experience Hendrix October 13 (three-hour show) Béla Fleck, Zakir Hussain & Edgar Meyer October 15 “Double Dare Live” with Marc Summers October 19 “Calavera” with Lila Downs, Grandeza Mexicana Folk Ballet ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

Farruquito November 12 The Magic of Bill Blagg November 14 Music of Cream November 15 Carlene Carter November 16 “An Evening with C.S. Lewis” November 19 to November 22 Cellist Lynn Harrell November 19 “National Geographic Live! Building the Photo Ark” with Joel Sartore November 20 Sheléa November 21 “Choir! Choir! Choir!”

November 30 Dave Koz & Friends: Christmas Tour December 17 Na Leo Holiday Concert December 19

Lunasa September 14

Irish Christmas in America December 15 and December 16

Southern Avenue September 16

A Peter White Christmas December 19

Paula Cole September 25

Jim Brickman December 29 to December 31

Stephen Kellogg and Will Hoge September 30

ORPHEUS The Orpheus Male Chorus of Phoenix made its debut on Christmas morning 1929 on KTAR-AM and has delighted audiences in venues large and small throughout Arizona and beyond with a diverse mix of classical and popular music.

Throughout its rich 90-year history, the chorus has also toured in the United States, Canada and Mexico, been featured in radio and TV broadcasts and has sung the national anthem at professional sporting events and for dignitaries, including President John F. Kennedy. Orpheus has gained international acclaim on tours throughout Europe, Australia and New Zealand.

Info: orpheus.org.

Gerald Clayton Quartet October 1 Candy Dulfer October 2 and October 3 Bettye LaVette October 8 Guilherme Arantes October 12 Acoustic Alchemy October 15 Kurt Elling October 18 Delta Rae and Frances Cone October 23 SFJAZZ Collective October 24 BoDeans October 26 Matt Dusk October 27

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis December 26

MUSICAL INSTRUMENT MUSEUM The Musical Instrument Museum’s fall highlights include Paula Cole, Delta Rae, BoDeans, Bruce Cockburn and Mike Stern.

The MIM is at 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix. Info: 480.478.6000, mim.org.

JigJam September 1 Kawehi September 7

HALE CENTRE THEATRE: “ANNIE”

The fall concerts include: Orpheus with Phoenix Children’s Chorus 3 p.m. September 29, at Mesa Community College, 1833 W. Southern Avenue.

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Orpheus with Phoenix Children’s Chorus 7 p.m. September 29, at Camelback High School, 4612 N. 28th Street, Phoenix.

Boys to Men Annual Festival of Male Choruses 4:30 p.m. November 2, at Camelback Bible Church, 3900 E. Stanford Drive, Paradise Valley

PHOENIX CHORALE The Phoenix Chorale has announced its concerts for the 2019-20 season, the first under its new Artistic Director Christopher Gabbitas, appointed in May. Musical highlights for the 201920 Season include “Fauré’s Requiem,” Aaron Copland’s “In the Beginning,” special guest conductor Dr. André J. Thomas, a new commission by Arizona composer Kira Zeeman Rugen, and music spanning centuries from Palestrina to Poulenc.

Info: 602.253.2224, phoenixchorale. org This fall’s programs include: “Lux Aeterna” In the 100th anniversary year of the Treaty of Versailles, the true political end of World War I, this program reflects on themes of memory and loss, including music setting poetry by some of the great war poets of World War I. • October 18 to October 20 • October 18, American Lutheran Church, Sun City •October 19 Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, Phoenix • October 20, Camelback Bible Church, Paradise Valley “A Chorale Christmas” • December 13 to December 17, with guest conductor André J. Thomas.

• December 13, American Lutheran Church, Sun City • December 14, Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, Phoenix •December 15, La Casa de Cristo

THE ORPHEUS MALE CHORUS OF PHOENIX Lutheran Church, Scottsdale • December 16, Camelback Bible Church, Paradise Valley • December 17, Brophy Chapel, Phoenix

PHOENIX THEATRE Arizona’s first and oldest arts institution is celebrating 100 years with a full slate of shows that have significance to The Phoenix Theatre Company’s past, present and future. Loaded with blockbusters, crowd favorites and a new world premiere musical, the 100th season reflects The Phoenix Theatre Company’s commitment to Broadwaycaliber entertainment.

The fall season began with “Spamilton: An American Parody,” and continues with “Kinky Boots.” Shows are staged at 1825 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix. Info: phoenixtheatre.com.

“Kinky Boots” now to October 13 “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” October 9 to November 10 “The Sound of Music” November 13 to December 29 “Million Dollar Quartet”

December 18 to February 16

SALT RIVER BRASS The Salt River Brass has announced its 2019-2020 season at the Mesa Arts Center’s Ikeda Theater led by Music Director Patrick Sheridan. Concerts start at 3 p.m.

This fall, performances will include: “A Date with Oscar” September 29 featuring music from “Ben-Hur,” “My Fair Lady” and “Star Wars.”

“The March King” November 10, honoring John Philip Sousa.

“Holiday Pops” December 15 is an afternoon of holiday classics.

SCOTTSDALE CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts’ 2019-20 season boasts performances for everyone, from acclaimed singersongwriters and must-see dance companies to renowned classical musicians and returning favorites.

Shows are presented at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second Street, Scottsdale. Info: scottsdaleperformingarts.org.

Live & Local: Jaleo: Cuba Caribe September 14 ariZoni Theatre Awards of Excellence September 23 Louie Anderson October 18 Monica Heuser’s Tribute: Remember Patsy Cline October 19 ASU Concerts @ The Center: An Evening of Solo Piano and Chamber Music October 28 Live & Local: Sugar Thieves November 17 Roots Rising! Featuring Matt Andersen, Gaby Moreno, and Liz Vice November 20

HALE CENTRE THEATRE: “SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN” ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

ASU Concerts @ The Center:

ASU Big Band Night November 25 Live & Local: 2nd Hand Sam and His Country Gentlemen: Holiday Blues December 8

SCOTTSDALE MUSICAL THEATER COMPANY Celebrating its 10th year in the Valley, Scottsdale Musical Theater Company prides itself on “bringing Broadway’s favorites back to life,” presenting full, large-scale productions of Broadway musicals in their original versions.

Shows feature well-known guest stars from television, film and Broadway, local talent, professional sets and costumes and a full 20-piece orchestra.

Productions are staged at the Tempe Center for the Arts, 700 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe. Info: 602.909.4215, scottsdalemusicaltheater.com.

Fall performances are: “Man of La Mancha” with Peter Scolari September 26 to October 6 “A Christmas Carol: The Musical” with Charles Shaughnessy December 12 to December 22.

TEMPE CENTER FOR THE ARTS Tempe Center for the Arts is offering a Mix and Match program, where guests can choose from the TCA 19-20 season and resident artist offerings.

The TCA’s 2019-20 TCA Presents season features critically acclaimed theater, ’90s hip-hop, Latin rock, multiplatinum recording artists, a first co-presentation with ASU Gammage, a 1960s drama that takes a sharp knife to American racism and the return of Disrupt FEST, an eclectic mashup of performance art.

Info: 480.350.2822 tempecenterforthearts.com.

This fall’s presentations include: “Dutchman,” by David Mamet October 4 to October 19 The Blue Note 80th Anniversary Celebration w/James Carter and Kandace Springs November 16.

OCTOBER 16TH with special guests

OCTOBER 20TH

JUSTIN MOORE with special guest

BLAINE LONG TICKETS @ MESAAMP.COM OR CHARGE BY PHONE (480)644-2560

REGIONAL THEATRE

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When two kindred souls find each other, amazing things can result Bridgette Redman >> The Entertainer!

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or Kimberly Shepherd and Kayla Etheridge, two actors with big dreams, the meeting of their souls took place because of the movie “Drop Dead Gorgeous.”

They both thought it should be a musical.

They were performing in “Grand Hotel” at Fountain Hills Theater. While they hadn’t really gotten to know each other during rehearsals, they struck up a conversation back stage during the show and fixated on the 1999 movie about a beauty pageant that turns deadly. Perfect fodder, they agreed, for a musical.

“We met at my house and started to write it,” Shepherd says. “Then we started talking about what shows we wanted to audition for. While we were talking, we realized there weren’t many shows to choose from that we wanted to do.

“Why was everyone doing the same shows over and over again? We should put on a production of a show that we hadn’t seen for a million years.”

The result was the Tempe-based Arizona Regional Theatre, which is finishing its first season with “Parade” from August 2 to August 18.

They also discussed the model of their fledgling theater. Etheridge says they would perform at an existing venue, creating a brand that could grow with them. The mainstage performances are at Third Street Theater at the Phoenix Center for the Arts, while Black Box Performances stage at ART Blackbox in Tempe.

“That’s why we picked the name we did,” Etheridge says. “We didn’t want the image of being a smaller, more community-type theater and then in a few years trying to rebrand ourselves as a professional.”

Now as they are getting ready to launch their second year, they’re deep into talks with Equity, the stage actors professional union, and have chosen shows that follow the first year’s model — “Bloody, Bloody Andrew Jackson,” “Lucky Stiff,” “Crazy for You,” “Five Women Wearing the Same Dress” and “Spring Awakening.”

“We’ve both lived in the Valley for all our lives except for leaving to do shows out of state,” says Tempe resident Shepherd.

“I’ve seen what shows come and go and I have a good grasp of what is done and what isn’t done. I’m a big fan of musicals. I know which ones we don’t ever touch on.

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“So, we were looking for shows people tend to forget about or that people are afraid to tackle.”

They opened with “Jekyll and Hyde” because it was a show they loved and connected with. For auditions, they put the word out among their contacts, but were uncertain who would show up because they were a new company.

“It was immediately exciting when we did ‘Jekyll and Hyde’ to see the sheer amount of people who came out even though we were a brand-new company and it was our very first show,” says Etheridge, of Gilbert.

“Between the two of us, we know a lot of the theater community, but there were tons of actors who came out to our first auditions who we had never met. It wasn’t just a bunch of our friends who supported us because we are friends. We’ve had nothing but great turnouts for our auditions.”

They’ve also had good turnouts to the shows in their 216-seat theater.

During “Next to Normal,” they sold out the house for the first time — on a night where it was freezing and the line was wrapped around the building.

“We tried to get them in the door as quickly as possible,” Shepherd says.

From the moment “Jekyll and Hyde” opened, Shepherd says they’ve been going nonstop, “We planned a full season with no breaks because if we don’t do it now, we’re never going to do it. Once the curtain (went) up on that show, there was no stopping us,” she says.

A NEW LOOK She even managed during the season to have a baby, while Etheridge is due during their second season. They represent something new in the theater world — young women who are running a theater company, something that used to be solely the purview of older, white men. They say it changes how they make decisions and the way they manage.

“When my baby was born, I wore her in a carrier while working the box office,” Shepherd says. “That’s the experience of women having to multitask so many different roles while trying to run a company. There are times I have a baby strapped to me and two more in the car and we’re on our way to a meeting. It’s a different approach to getting things done.

“Kayla and I are very mobile. We get things done on mobile or on the laptop late at night at home when all the kids have

gone to bed. It gives us more ambition.

There isn’t much that we can’t get done. It’s just finding creative ways to get it done.”

Etheridge says they bring a different perspective to the theater world that also affects such things as how they cast and the opportunities they open for people.

“We’re both young women and how we’ve grown up and the world we grew up in is very different than it was for a lot of the men who run these other theaters,” Ethridge says.

“They’ve been doing this for a long time and they have a lot of experience and no one is trying to discredit them. But every industry in the world has the perspective of a middle-aged white straight male way.

It is one way to look at things, but there are a hundred ways of looking at things.”

She says women of her generation tend to be more inclusive and want to do things that make everyone feel good. She says they are also more focused on talents and less focused on how people look. The best person for a role isn’t the one who fits in the size 4 costume, she says. They’ll make the costume that fits the person with the most talent and they’ll be inclusive.

They are also excited to be a part of the Phoenix theater community and are committed to collaborating with others and helping to make everyone stronger.

“The theater community here is great,” Etheridge says. “It’s small and it’s not small at the same time. There are a lot of theaters. Many of them are what are called a satellite — they are in a specific community and their patrons are members of that community. That’s great. We want to see theater everywhere, but what we’re kind of lacking is a theater district.

“There is the little bit of the beginning of that in downtown Phoenix an that’s what brought us here. You have the Herberger Theatre, the Phoenix Theater, the Orpheum — there are several different places. We wanted to put ourselves there to cultivate this arts district where people could come to a certain location and find something to do or go to see a show at different theaters that have shows playing the same weekend.”

While they have a deep respect for community theater, they want to be a theater that pays their actors a livable wage.

They have met with Equity to start the fiveyear process to become a full Equity house.

They are offering Equity guest contracts.

“What we are able to afford is not nearly as much as we would like to pay our actors, but that has been a goal from

minute one,” Etheridge says. “There are a lot of theaters in town that pay. We are glad to be among them.”

They are also committed to working with local actors and providing work for the professionals who live in the Phoenix area. They say many actors who have earned their Equity cards and live in Arizona don’t get cast because the Equity houses are holding auditions in New York.

“We’re not going to audition out of state,” Shepherd says. “We have found so many talented people here. Staying in Arizona is hard if you want to make a living as a performer. Most people have a day job, or they move away to New York or Chicago. Some end up back here and some don’t. Some went to New York and come back and now they’re working in this community again and want to see this community grow.”

The duo doesn’t want to just give opportunities to actors. They want to open doors for directors, costumers, lighting and design folks. So Arizona Regional Theater lets people with what they say are relatively thin resumes choreograph, sew, design and do lights. They’ve found directors who were passionate about the shows and the themes being addressed.

“It’s not always easy to find someone who will take a chance on you as a director,” Etheridge says. “It’s easy to be pigeonholed as just an actor and that can be hard because we are multifaceted people who have a lot of interests. We want to provide a place for people with various perspectives to share their art — people of different cultures and faith and gender and sexual orientation to come and present their art.”

So far, they say they are excited the theater community has embraced them and they’re expanding their circle. They feel they’ve made strides toward reaching an audience by putting on quality productions with amazing talent while bringing a different perspective to the Valley.

“Arizona Regional Theatre was born out of our desire to be able to work in different aspects of the theater and to provide a place for the talents of other people,” Shepherd says. “To do what we love and to use all the talents we have and to find out what other secret talents others have — that’s what we’re here to do.”

Arizona Regional Theater For more information, visit arizonaregionaltheatre.org.

KICK UP YOUR HEELS. SEPTEMBER 7

A fantastic line-up of events is just around the corner.

Join us out Wickenburg way!

31st Annual Fiesta de Septiembre

OCTOBER 12

25th Annual Fly-In & Classic Car Show

OCTOBER 12

(928) 684-0977 VISITWICKENBURG.COM facebook.com/WickenburgAZ Wickenburg Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau

Photo: © Craig W. Cutler Fine Art

2nd Annual Color Run

NOVEMBER 2

Free

M U S I C THE TOWN OF WICKENBURG PRESENTS FIRST FRIDAY

Wickenburg Gem & Mineral Show

DECEMBER 6-7

NOV – MAY

31st Annual Cowboy Poetry Gathering

NOVEMBER 9-DECEMBER 1

DECEMBER 13

CONCERTS

Trappings of the American West Desert Caballeros Western Museum

25th Annual Christmas Parade of Lights

NOVEMBER 16

Wickenburg Stock Show

Las Señoras Home Tour & Holiday Market

Tour de Ranch Bike Race

NOVEMBER 8-10

NOVEMBER 21-23

40th Annual Bluegrass Festival

NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 1

200th Anniversary of Town Founder Henry Wickenburg

JANUARY 4, 2020 SAVE THE DATE! FEBRUARY 14-16,2020 72nd Annual Gold Rush Days & Rodeo

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Rooted in Jazz Lakeshore Music shares a musical mission Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

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ormerly in the media, Woody Wilson knows music and he’s sharing his knowledge with Arizonans.

For the 11th year, he’s continuing his Lakeshore Music program at the Tempe Center for the Arts from September to May. “Lakeshore Music exists to bring people together for a shared experience of jazz music done well,” says Wilson, who serves as founder, president and executive producer. “And part of our mission is to introduce our audiences to exciting, new, emerging artists.”

While Lakeshore’s roots are in jazz, the 2019-20 lineup features a diverse range of shows that are sure to appeal to all audiences, from Cuban rhythms to soulful Afro-centric beats to The Beatles.

And, of course, jazz.

“We do jazz in its many forms,” he says. “We try to have a mixture of young and old, new artists and established artists. We do one every month and try to mix it up. All of our artists are national and international artists, and we throw in wonderful local talent for Christmas, just to round it out.”

Most of the concerts are held in TCA’s intimate Lakeside Room, an acoustically stellar venue with floor-to-ceiling windows behind the performers.

Lakeshore teams with Caffe Boa, a dining establishment on Mill Avenue in downtown Tempe, for a dinner-show package.

Lakeshore opens its season with two up-and-coming female artists,

guitarist/vocalist Camila Meza, and then clarinetist/post-modern jukebox sensation Chloe Feoranzo on February 22.

For fans of the horn, there is an October 26 performance by Sean Jones,

year.

Last, Lakeshore caps its season May 16 with internationally acclaimed pianist Tamir Hendelman fronting an all-Israeli ensemble in “The Spirit of Israel.” Hendelman last appeared on the Lakeshore stage in 2018 as pianist in the Jeff Hamilton Trio.

MEAGER BEGINNINGS

“one of the most important jazzmen of our time,” Wilson says.

Among the returning favorites is the Valley’s “Queen of Salsa,” Carmela Ramirez, who performs November 23 with Mas in “Cubop: A Latin Jazz Explosion,” a festival of Cuban popular music and rhythms.

Celebrate the holiday season with pianist Beth Lederman and Jazz Con Alma, performing along with several of the Valley’s best musicians on December 21 in “A Winter Solstice Concert.”

Lakeshore kicks off the new year with a new angle, transforming the TCA Studio blackbox into a nightclub setting, complete with table seating, for a special evening with John Storie and the New West Guitar Group on January 25.

Hot Club of San Francisco returns March 21 in a new show dubbed “John, Paul, George and Django,” Le Beatles Gypsy Band.

On April 25, Cuban virtuoso pianist Harold Lopez-Nussa comes to Lakeshore from Havana. This show is a result of collaboration with Lakeshore’s sister entity, Cuba Rhythm and Views, which conducts U.S. government-sanctioned, cultural-exchange tours of Cuba each

Wilson moved to Arizona in 1980 to work for the Phoenix Gazette and then moved onto the magazine City Life. He jumped from journalism to comic strips after he was hired to work with Nicholas Dallis on Rex Morgan, Judge Parker and Apartment 3-G. “Nicholas passed away in 1991 and I took over those comics,” he says. “I went from the newspaper business to syndication, which is what I always wanted to do. I worked for Hearst and King Features for 26 years and retired in 2016.”

Lakeshore began as Monday night jazz programs in the back room of Tempe’s iconic Monti’s La Casa Vieja in the early 2000s.

“It took off right away,” he says.

“We had nice hors d’oeuvres and local artists. It was really nice for a Monday night. We had people there from city hall — the mayor and council. It was a happening scene for a Monday.

“When the Tempe Center for the Arts was finished, they needed programming. We were asked by the friends of Tempe Center for the Arts to come in and do a pilot program.

We did that in 2008. We did six shows during the summer. That was great. At the end of it, we had money left over and they wanted to continue it. I began Lakeshore Music. In 2009, we became a nonprofit.”

“Every show is a winner this season,” Wilson says.

Lakeshore Music Tempe Center for the Arts, 700 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, 480.350.2822, ext. 2, lakeshoremusic.org.

ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

MAN OF SCOTTSDALE

33

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2019

Actor Peter Scolari hits the stage with ‘Man of La Mancha’ Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

P

eter Scolari is one of the rare talents who has found success in multiple decades.

In the early ’80s, he starred as Henry Desmond on “Bosom Buddies” with Tom Hanks. In 1996, he starred in a version of the stage musical “Stop the World—I Want to Get Off,” produced for A&E. He resurrected his TV career as Tad Horvath in “Girls” from 2012 to 2017 and won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series in 2016 for the role.

Now Scolari is sharing his talents with Scottsdale Musical Theater Company as Don Quixote in “Man of La Mancha” at the Tempe Center for the Arts Thursday, September 26, to Sunday, October 6.

“Man of La Mancha” is one of Broadway’s most enduring and classic musicals. It is the heroic story of Don Quixote and his quest as a Knight Errant, righting all wrongs in search of his “Impossible Dream,” while battling giants and ogres and windmills, all in the name of his Lady Dulcinea. The production is directed by David Hock.

Musical direction is by Joni Van Rossum with Kevin Hayward conducting the 20-piece orchestra.

Comparing his TV roles to stage performances, Scolari says, is like comparing apples to baseball gloves.

“With stage, there’s a broad spectrum of skill sets we’re not asked to have on hand to do a film or TV work,” say Scolari, who recently appeared as “Mel” in the miniseries “Fosse/Verdon.”

“Live theater is on every night and then it disappears into the ether.

Whatever you accomplished on Thursday night, say, is not organically available to you the next night.

“A musical is so different because it’s so structured. There are certain things that can’t be reinvented every night. It’s always interesting to create the illusion this is happening for the first time.”

Scolari says it was easy to agree to star as Don Quixote.

“They asked me,” he says with a laugh.

“My wife and I talked about it. I’d be out of town for a while. I was out of town with a Neil Simon play in Kansas. That was three months, almost four months.

That was kind of brutal. I had a great time, though. In Tempe, it’s about three and a half weeks.”

Coming up for Scolari is a project with producer Scott Rosenfelt (“Home Alone,” “Mystic Pizza” and “Teen Wolf”), the film “Present from the Past.” That would take him away from December to February, so he hasn’t planned projects after that.

“I’m always in the hopper with TV and film and have been looking at a few different things,” he says. “I’m glad to be able to come to Phoenix and work devilishly hard.”

He admits, though, he loves the stage.

“Theater is an event,” he says. “When I go to work to film a TV show or I’m on a movie set, I’m not going to see it for four months to two years. I was in the ‘Fosse/Verdon’ miniseries with Michelle Williams. I did it last year. It aired this past spring.

“I was very happy with the series and my humble contribution to it. I had a nice rapport with Michelle. It wasn’t what I thought we had gotten done. It was cut and edited. A stage play, though, if you can tell we’ve been directed, we haven’t done our job well.”

Scolari is looking forward to “Man of La Mancha,” as it will allow him to contribute to an ensemble.

“I was trained as an ensemble actor 40 some-odd years ago and it’s never worn off,” he says. “I’ve never been sorry that I trusted in that kind of process, one in which everyone finds a way to pull in the same direction.”

WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY th th pm

“Man of La Mancha” Tempe Center for the Arts, 700 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, scottsdalemusicaltheater. com, various times Thursday, September 26, to Sunday, October 6, $48-$58.

Proud member of

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34

DINING

EAT » EXPERIENCE » INDULGE » SAVOR » DEVOUR » NOSH

DINING

CALENDAR Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

No Kid Hungry Fundraiser

TO SEPTEMBER 24 Noodles & Company is teaming with No Kid Hungry to help end childhood hunger in America.

Through September 24, Noodles & Company guests can choose to add a $2 donation to their order, enough to provide up to 20 meals for kids in need. As a thank you, donors will receive a free shareable item on their next visit.

Noodles & Company, 2000 E. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, 480.921.3500; 2975 S. Market Street, Gilbert, 480.963.0255; 2805 W. Agua Fria Freeway, Phoenix, 623.587.0767; 7541 W. Bell Road, Peoria, 623.979.9477, noodles.com.

Farmboy Market’s Three-Course Dinner

SEPTEMBER 7 Farmboy Market, Meats and Sandwiches hosts a three-course dinner featuring Udder Delights Ice Cream in Gilbert made with Superstition Farm Milk from Mesa; and DNA Chocolate in Chandler.

Each dish on the menu is prepared with local dairy, meats, grains and produce. The first course is Superstition Farms Honey Butter and Farmboy Biscuits with Sky Farms veggie chili and late-harvest greens salad with apple cider vinaigrette. A family-style barbecue follows with an Udder Delights watermelon sorbet intermezzo. It wraps up with root beer or cherry cream floats and DNA chocolate.

Farmboy Market, Meats and Sandwiches, 1075 W. Queen Creek Road, Suite 1, Chandler, 480.361.2153, farmboyaz.com, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., $22.95.

Mexican Independence Day Celebration at Fantasticós Mexican Food

SEPTEMBER 14 Fantasticós Mexican Food’s Mexican

Independence Day celebration features a special burrito — green or red pork chile in a tortilla (fried or unfried), special spices and then smothered in jalapeno cream sauce and red and green enchilada sauces ($5.99). A complimentary medium drink comes with it. In addition, the eatery will offer chicken or beef street tacos for 99 cents.

Guests can choose from al pastor (marinated pork) or pollo asado (marinated chicken) with onions and cilantro. Mexican music will be played and churros will be served.

Fantasticós Mexican Food, 6554 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek, 480.488.0255, fantasticosmexicanfood.com, 6 a.m. to midnight, free admission.

Cloth & Flame Signature Community Dinner

SEPTEMBER 14 In celebration of its 35th anniversary, L’Auberge de Sedona, A Destination Hotel is collaborating with Phoenixbased Cloth & Flame to host a signature community dinner.

L’Auberge de Sedona Executive Chef Franck Desplechin will prepare a selection of seasonal dishes with highlights, including the applemarinated kale salad, buttermilkfried Sedona rainbow trout, grilled Cornish game hen and Ramona Farms chicos panna cotta, in addition to hand-passed hors d’oeuvres like black truffle pomme dauphine with garlic aioli and chives during the cocktail reception. Cocktails prepared by beverage manager Ardi Dulaku include the signature bee’s ducky, a blend of local gin, St. Germain, clementine, basil syrup, Wild Tonic L’Auberge private label kombucha and a clementine garnish.

L’Auberge de Sedona, 301 L’Auberge Lane, Sedona, 855.905.5745, lauberge. com, 5:30 p.m., $145.

Tempe Tacos and Margs Crawl SEPTEMBER 14 Bar Crawl Nation is taking over Mill Avenue’s best bars and restaurants

for a taco- and tequila-inspired bar crawl. Party at the area’s best bars and win free tacos and other items by checking in with the Bar Crawl Nation app. Participating restaurants include Fat Tuesday, Zuma, Illegal Pete’s and Casa.

Various pubs and restaurants around Tempe, barcrawlnation.com/tempe, 2 p.m., $19.99-$49.99.

Rockin’ Taco Street Fest

SEPTEMBER 14 Arizona’s official taco party features creative tacos from more than a dozen local restaurants and food trucks. Wash it all down with fresh fruit fresca, cerveza and margaritas.

Event highlights include live entertainment, wrestling, eating competitions, mariachi, niños play zone and a piñata party. Tickets are for admission only and do not include food or beverages.

Downtown Chandler, 178 E. Commonwealth Avenue, Chandler, rockintacoaz. com, noon to 9 p.m., $10.

Sunday Supper Club

SEPTEMBER 15 Chef Beau MacMillan of Sanctuary is joined by Belle Radici Winery and the Bella Twins for the series’ grand finale. Meal includes ruck rillettes and cherry tart; honey crisp apple and daikon radish salad; charred octopus; black garlic braised beef cheek; and Valencia orange revani cake.

Mountain Shadows, 5445 E. Lincoln Drive, Paradise Valley, 866.572.8774, mountainshadows. com, 6 p.m., $74 per person plus tax and gratuity.

James Beard Foundation’s Taste America

SEPTEMBER 19 AND SEPTEMBER 20 The cross-country culinary series returns to the Valley of the Sun for a weekend of food-filled events.

The itinerary kicks off September 19 with a Raising the Bar reception at Seventh & Union at Young’s Market Company at 6 p.m. Guests will enjoy a walk-around reception, meeting and greeting participating risingstar mixologists. At the reception, the guests can enjoy an array of cocktails, and tasting items prepared by chefs from Castle Hot Springs, Hush Public House, Cotton & Copper, Cartwright’s Modern Cuisine and

Chula Seafood. On September 20, the gala benefit dinner at The Royal Palms Resort & Spa features a pre-dinner reception with chefs Cat Bunnag from Glai Baan, Stephen Jones from The Larder & The Delta, Tandy Peterson from Mowry & Cotton, Ryan Swanson from Kai, and Claudio Urciuoli from Pa’La. Seventh & Union at Young’s Market Company, 402 S. 54th Place, Phoenix, 480.951.2950, jamesbeard.org/tasteamerica, 6 p.m., various pricing.

The Royal Palms Resort & Spa, 5200 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, 480.951.2950, jamesbeard.org/tasteamerica, 7 p.m., various pricing.

The Roundup Food Truck & Music Festival

SEPTEMBER 28 This year’s Roundup, presented

by Desert Financial Credit Union, offers the Valley’s top food trucks, wine, beer, spirits, dedicated kids’ zone, music, Topgolf activities, games and a firework show. St. Mary’s Food Bank will collect canned and nonperishable foods.

Goodyear Ballpark, 1933 S. Ballpark Way, Goodyear, westvalleymavericksfoundation. org, 4 to 10 p.m., free admission.

VIP tickets available.

Jazz & Jambalaya

SUNDAYS STARTING SEPTEMBER 29 Southern Rail invites guests to enjoy smooth jazz and southern comfort food and cocktails on the patio for its fall Jazz & Jambalaya Series. The series features sazeracs, half-price bottles of Arizona wine, live music and Chef Justin Beckett’s signature jambalaya. Featured local jazz artists include Adam Clark, What’s the Big Idea and Andy Galore. The event runs through December 1.

Southern Rail, 300 W. Camelback Road, Phoenix, 602.200.0085, southernrailaz.com, 5 to 8 p.m., sazeracs will be available for $9 while jambalaya can be purchased for $24, free admission.

36

BREAKFAST, LUNCH, MIMOSAS UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

Eggstasy brings morning magic to South Chandler Kevin Reagan >> The Entertainer!

P

eter Verros says he’s a simple, bacon-and-eggs-type of guy.

But the menu at his new brunch spot in Chandler begs to differ.

It has jelly-donut-flavored pancakes, bacon covered in chocolate and crepes served with bananas and chili peppers.

Verros says his staff at Eggstasy, 2430 S. Gilbert Road, is always experimenting and testing the limits of the standard breakfast menu.

“We’re always looking to keep going forward, keep being innovative,” Verros says.

They serve waffles, pancakes, sandwiches, burgers, and eggs — lots of eggs.

Verros estimates they crack about 2 million eggs from Hickman Farms each year. They serve eggs with apple ciderflavored bacon, eggs with ciabatta bread, and nine styles of eggs Benedict.

And there are specialty items not on the regular menu, like crepes covered in a cookie butter sauce.

Eggstasy has three existing locations around Scottsdale. Verros says planned to open the first location in Chandler, but fate sent him farther north.

The Chicago native moved to Arizona a few years ago after a trip exposed

him to the state’s alluring sunshine and business-friendly atmosphere.

“I came out here and fell in love with it,” Verros says.

He has more than 25 years of restaurant experience, opening and running his first breakfast spot when he was still a teenager.

People made fun of his menus at first, he says, but then they started catching on and getting trendy.

Eclectic, hip brunch spots that serve avocado toast can now be found everywhere throughout the Valley. But Verros says this has been his style for years.

Crepes remain one of the restaurant’s most popular dishes. From Nutella crepes to spinach crepes, Eggstasy offers a wide spectrum of both savory and sweet options.

And there are plenty of healthier options for customers looking to watch their calories. The menu offers items like protein-filled pancakes and whole wheat French toast.

Among the restaurant’s numerous menu items, Verros said his personal favorite is the gluten-free lemon ricotta pancakes.

The restaurant will soon test a Japanese-style soufflé pancake.

Verros wants Eggstasy to feel like a mom-and-pop store that is welcoming and inviting.

THE ORIGINAL FISH & CHIPS 20% OFF

ANY PURCHASE OVER $9 BEST LUNCH UNDER $7.00 (Total Bill)

May not be combined with any other offers or coupon. One coupon per person, per visit.

No cash value. Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. Coupon valid at all 8 Pete’s Fish and Chips.

Exp. 9/30/19

EGGSTASY’S CREATIONS INCLUDE CINNAMON ROLL PANCAKES, COOKIE BUTTER CREPES, BERRY BLINTZES AND OMELETS DRIZZLED WITH FIG JAM. (PHOTO BY PABLO

ROBLES)

It should almost feel like a party, he said, which is why the restaurant has Maroon 5 and Ricky Martin playing regularly in the background.

“We don’t want that corporate feel,” Verros says.

Eggstasy 2430 S. Gilbert Road, Chandler, 480.361.9275. For a complete list of locations, visit eggstasyaz.com.

Family Owned & Operated Since 1947

FREE

DEEP FRIED BURRITO With any purchase over $9

May not be combined with any other offers or coupon. One coupon per person, per visit.

No cash value. Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. Coupon valid at all 8 Pete’s Fish and Chips.

Exp. 9/30/19

www.petesfishandchips.com Pete’s Has Been Serving Deep Fried Goodness For Over 72 Years!

ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

Thank You For Pete’s Sake!

Upcoming Concerts Kawehi September 7 Greg Laswell September 9 Across the Sea Featuring Jeff Peterson, Greg Sardinha, and Tsun-Hui Hung September 12 Lúnasa September 14

SOUTHERN AVENUE

Mon., September 16 | 7 p.m. | $33.50–$43.50

“Southern Avenue reaches out to a new generationof soulsters while preserving the tradition of Stax and Memphis soul. These songs flow deep down into our hearts and bones.”

—No Depression

Lucibela September 21 Paula Cole: The Revolution Tour September 25 Stephen Kellogg and Will Hoge September 30 And many more!

2019 Concert Series sponsored by

MIM.org | 480.478.6000 | 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix, AZ

38

BEER AND WINE

SIP » BREW » RELAX » EXPERIMENT » REFRESH » TOAST

BEER AND WINE

CALENDAR Shane Crowe >> The Entertainer!

to embark on a starlight train ride in style. This luxury train ride takes passengers through the Verde Valley at dusk to experience sunset and twilight with an award-winning glass of local wine in hand.

Verde Canyon Railroad, 300 N. Broadway, Clarkdale, 800.293.7245, verdecanyonrr. com, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., $129.

Born & Brewed Free Games All Night & $1 Off Draft Beer

MONDAYS IN SEPTEMBER Play classic, free games and drink at a discount on Mondays at Valley Bar. Games include billiards, darts, shuffle board, Skee-Ball and a few arcades.

Valley Bar, 130 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, 602.368.3121, valleybarphx.com, 4 p.m. to close, free admission.

SEPTEMBER 14 Come to the Hotel Congress Plaza to witness 15 local breweries compete for Tucson’s Beer Cup. The winner of the eighth annual Born & Brewed will be determined by judges’ and people’s choice for best beer.

Hotel Congress, 311 E. Congress Street, Tucson, 520.622.8848, eventbrite. com, 7 to 10 p.m., $40-$100.

SanTan Oktoberfest Arizona Margarita, Mojito, Craft Beer and Food Truck Festival

SEPTEMBER 21 Riverview Park will house more than 40 tasting stations, a variety of food trucks from throughout the Valley and live music.

Riverview Park, 2100 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Mesa, eventbrite. com, 4 to 10 p.m., $50.

Blind Wine Tasting at Valley Bar

SEPTEMBER 25 Test your palate and quench your thirst at this blind wine tasting. All wines featured will be available for purchase to take home.

Valley Bar, 130 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, 602.368.3121, valleybarphx.com, 7 p.m., $15 per tasting.

Four Peaks 8th Street Brewery Tours in Tempe

SEPTEMBER 7 Tour the original Four Peaks brewery to learn its rich history and try the specialty brews. Guides will give an in-depth overview of the brewing process as they guide patrons through a working brewery.

Four Peaks Brewing Company, 1340 E. Eighth Street, Tempe, 480.303.9967, fourpeaks.com, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., free admission.

Grape Train Escape

SEPTEMBER 14 Raise a glass of wine and prepare

Scottsdale Beer Fest Oktoberfest Edition

SEPTEMBER 28 Celebrate Oktoberfest with a beer crawl through Scottsdale. Admission includes 24 beer tastings, which span over multiple breweries.

Wasted Grain, 7295 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale, 480.970.0500, eventbrite.com, 3 to 6 p.m., $50.

$300 Off Move In when you mention Entertainer Magazine!

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SkylineLoftsApartments.com ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

(602) 374-1733

Sedona Winefest

SEPTEMBER 28 TO SEPTEMBER 29 Visit the Sedona Winefest to enjoy music, art and wine with a backdrop of the town’s iconic red rocks.

With more than 25 participating Arizona wineries and food trucks, this event is one wine lovers and foodies won’t want to miss.

Posse Grounds, 570 Posse Ground Road, Sedona, 520.455.9309, sedonawinefest.com, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., $35-$40.

Downtown Phoenix Oktoberfest

Birds & Beer at Audubon

SEPTEMBER 19 Learn about birds and conservation while sipping on a refreshing adult beverage. This event features a bird and wildlife presentation as well as a walk through the marsh trail, if the weather allows for it.

Nina Mason Pulliam Rio Salado Audubon Center, 3131 S. Central Avenue, Phoenix, 602.468.6470, riosalado.audubon.org, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., free admission.

SEPTEMBER 28 Join SanTan Brewing in celebrating Oktoberfest with polka music, German food and craft beer. Partake in games, steinholding competitions and even a wiener dog race. Lederhosen and dirndls are encouraged.

Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 3 S. Arizona Avenue, Chandler, 480.782.3037, santanoktoberfest.com, 3 to 11 p.m., $12-$15

SEPTEMBER 28 The event brings with it plenty of beer and traditional German food, such as bratwurst, schnitzel, spätzle and sauerkraut. Eur Haus food truck, Brat Haus, Copper Blues and Hooters will also participate.

Civic Space Park, 424 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, dtphxoktoberfest.com, 3 to 9 p.m., $10 in advance, $15 day of event.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2019

39

Wine Among t he Red Rocks

Sedona Winefest features vintners, music and massages Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

P

aula Woolsey calls the Sedona Winefest a “legacy event.”

In its 11th year, the festival set for Saturday, September 28, and Sunday, September 29, allows locals and tourists to try 20 to 25 wineries from around the state. The event features music, food trucks, free chair massages and a performance by glam rockers Naughty Bits from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday.

A Plein Air Paint-Out, organized by the Artists of the Sedona Arts Center, is 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday.

“As the biggest festival in northern Arizona, we are again expecting recordbreaking numbers at this year’s festival,” says Sandy Moriarty, founder of the Sedona Winefest. “Wine, art and music lovers come from across the state to join us for this weekend among the red rocks, as there is truly something for everyone to enjoy.”

Participants include Arizona Angel, Arizona Stronghold Vineyards, Caduceus Cellars, Carlson Creek, Del Rio Springs Vineyard, Heart Wood

Cellars, Oak Creek Winery, Su Vino Winery, and Winery 1912.

Guests are invited to arrive early for the “Jazz It Up Sedona” opening night party at 6 p.m. Friday, September 27, which will include an evening of Arizona wine, dinner and jazz with Will Donato at Sound Bites Grill. Visit soundbitesgrill.com for tickets.

The event’s vice president, Woolsey says the Winefest is well received.

“We’re pretty slammed because that’s the high season,” she says. “Saturday is mostly people who are here for the weekend, who come from out of state.

On Sunday, we tend to encourage the locals to come. We’re hoping to generate a little more business on Sunday. We try to encourage anyone to attend who has an affiliation with wine.”

She is someone who is passionate about wine.

“I was in the wine industry before there was a wine industry in Arizona,” Woolsey says. “I am into distribution and marketing and wine education. I teach at Yavapai College. I taught the first classes 10 years ago. Everybody comes together in the northern Arizona wine industry.”

Sedona Posse Grounds Park 525 Posse Ground Road, Sedona, sedonawinefest.com, sedonawinefest2019@gmail.com, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, September 28, and Sunday, September 29, $35 in advance, $40 at the door, $50 for two-day passes. Tickets include six wine tasting tickets and a commemorative glass. Free entry for kids and non-wine tasters.

ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

40

CASINOS

PLAY » SPIN » LAUGH » GROOVE » UNWIND » WIN

CASINO ENTERTAINMENT

CALENDAR Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

SEPTEMBER 8

SEPTEMBER 1

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Kush

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Marble Heart

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SEPTEMBER 2, 3 & 4 DJ Ray

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

SEPTEMBER 5 Stanley Serrano Trio

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Fan Halen

Casino Arizona, casinoarizona.com\

SEPTEMBER 6 Mike Reeves Band

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Great White and Slaughter Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

SEPTEMBER 7 Gimme 3 Steps

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Basketball Jones

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Warrant

Talking Stick Resort, talkingstickresort.com

King Cage: Reaction Time BlueWater Hotel and Casino, bluewaterfun.com

Thaddeus Rose Band

Justin Shandon: World’s Ultimate Elvis

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, playatgila.com

SEPTEMBER 9 & 10 DJ Ray

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

SEPTEMBER 11 Silhouette

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

SEPTEMBER 12 AZ Blacktop

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

38 Special

Desert Diamond Casino and Entertainment, ddcaz.com

SEPTEMBER 13 Str8up

Marisela

SEPTEMBER 22

Desert Diamond Casino and Entertainment, ddcaz.com

Quantum

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

SEPTEMBER 15 Mancini the Band

SEPTEMBER 23 & 24

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

DJ Ray

SEPTEMBER 16 & 17 DJ Ray

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SEPTEMBER 25

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Southbound

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SEPTEMBER 18

SEPTEMBER 26

Walkens Trio

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Stanley Serrano Trio

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

SEPTEMBER 19

SEPTEMBER 27

Marble Heart

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Uncorked

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

SEPTEMBER 20 Desert Dixie

SEPTEMBER 28

Lifehouse

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Jukebox 6

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Mike Reeves Band

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Hot August Nights: Tribute to Neil Diamond

Casino Arizona, casinoarizona.com

Mad Dogs and The Englishman: Tribute to Joe Cocker BlueWater Hotel and Casino, bluewaterfun.com

Freddie Duran

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Night Ranger

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, playatgila.com

SEPTEMBER 21

Luis Fonsi

Casino Arizona, casinoarizona.com

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Josh Turner

SEPTEMBER 14

Doobie Brothers

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Corazón de Maná

Jukebox 6

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Rhythm Edition

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Cameron Degurski

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

AVA Amphitheater at Casino del Sol, casinodelsol.com

JD Madrid

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

Desert Diamond Casino and Entertainment, ddcaz.com

SEPTEMBER 29

Ramon Ayala and Los Invasores de Nuevo Leon

AVA Amphitheatre at Casino del Sol, casinodelsol.com

Hot August Nights: Tribute to Neil Diamond

Rhythm Edition

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SEPTEMBER 30 DJ Ray

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THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2019

September 28th - 29th at Sedona’s scenic Posse Grounds Park 11:00AM – 5:00PM

LIFEHOUSE IS ‘ALL IN’

Pop band’s Gilbert-born drummer still sharing ‘moments’ with fans Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

G

ilbert High School graduate Ricky Woolstenhulme Jr. could be his hometown’s biggest fan.

The drummer for the multiplatinum band Lifehouse spent years away from the East Valley, living in California, until recently when he returned to Gilbert after 20 years in Los Angeles.

“It’s super-awesome,” Woolstenhulme says during an interview at Coffee Rush in Gilbert. “I’m a fan. I literally live a mile from my high school.”

Woolstenhulme and his bandmates — singer/guitarist Jason Wade and bassist/ vocalist Bryce Soderberg — are coming to the Valley on Friday, September 20, at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino in Maricopa.

The tour supports 2017’s “Lifehouse: Greatest Hits.” The 18-track album includes a variety of hits, “You and Me,” “First Time,” “Halfway Gone,” “Hurricane” and “Hanging by a Moment,” which was the most-played radio track of 2001. Since 2000, Lifehouse has released seven albums that have, together, sold 15 million units around the world.

Lifehouse’s musicians are doing oneoff dates so they may focus on their side projects. Woolstenhulme is working with John Alagia, who produced John Mayor’s “Room for Squares.” Wade

releases singles frequently, in lieu of an album.

When Woolstenhulme returned to Gilbert, he built a studio in his basement so he could record his own tunes.

“I record my own stuff all the time at home, but a lot of the time, I get an idea or two and I can never finish them. It’s frustrating,” he says. “I’m a drummer by trade, so I have some amazing drum tracks and then a couple ideas on my Fender Rhodes. If I can’t finish it, I can’t finish it. Then it’s just a weird snippet of an idea. Maybe I should write video game music so I can just record a fourbar phrase.”

Still, he can’t believe Lifehouse is still going strong.

“I never imagined I’d be here, with the same guys for 20 years and we actually don’t hate each other. We all still get along,” he says.

“Jason and I have been together in the band 20 years almost, and we still love each other.”

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REGIFTING OF SORTS Growing up, Woolstenhulme played baseball, football and participated in theater.

“My parents bought my brother a drum kit,” he says with a laugh, remembering a time when he was 8. “I just started playing it even before my brother did. That was pretty much it.”

After graduating Gilbert High in the late 1990s, Woolstenhulme moved west

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for the Los Angeles Music Academy.

That’s where he met Wade and Sergio Andrade, the original bass player. Soon, they were on the road with Pearl Jam. “We all grew up loving Pearl Jam, but I think we sounded terrible live at that point,” he joked. “We were so young.

‘Hanging by a Moment’ was just then on the radio.

“We’ve been making records and touring the world since. And we’re still able to do it currently.”

Woolstenhulme admitted he’s amazed at his band’s success. He loves to hear stories from fans about how Lifehouse’s songs have moved them, or that “You and Me” was their wedding song.

“The goal is to be able to make music that somehow connects with people,” he says. “Luckily, we have a handful of songs that make that thing happen.

We’re very, very fortunate and happy that we do this for a living. It’s definitely a blast and we’re having a great time doing it.”

Woolstenhulme has thought about life beyond Lifehouse, however. His wife, Jen Hagio, is a musician who cowrote songs on Michelle Branch’s “The Spirit Room” album. A former Sedona resident, Branch introduced the two at The Roxy Theatre in West Hollywood before the two acts toured together.

“She (Michelle Branch) opened for us on our first headlining club tour,” he says. “My wife was out on the road with us for three or four months.

“She and my wife were best friends since they were little. There was a time when my wife was more successful than I was in the beginning. She’s always been

supportive.”

She’s also into his plans to open a cocktail bar with a small menu in Gilbert.

“Gilbert is my favorite,” he adds.

“I was so surprised when I moved back. When I left, it was all farmland.

When I moved back, I was like, ‘Wow.’ Downtown Gilbert has transformed, and so many cool things are going on.”

When he’s not on tour, he’s honing his F&B chops with James Johnston at Fire & Brimstone at Barnone.

“I figured if I was going to open a spot, I should learn from the best,” he says.

“Just being a cook at home is one thing, but doing it on a grand scale is definitely different. It’s an amazing experience.

James is great for letting this rock drummer come in and cut stuff.”

Woolstenhulme says a new Lifehouse album may be on the horizon.

“It’s like gold mining,” he says. “You could write 50 songs and record 50 songs and still not have what you think is great.”

Woolstenhulme sees the Harrah’s AkChin Casino show as a homecoming.

“I’ve reconnected with a whole bunch of people from high school,” he says. “So, I’m sure a lot of people will end up in my house after that. That’s fun, though.”

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SPORTS

43

CHEER » HIT » HIKE » LEAD » ROOT » COMPETE

SPORTS

CALENDAR

with first-round pick Kyler Murray at quarterback, for the first time in the regular season, as Arizona takes on Detroit in the season opener.

State Farm Stadium, 1 Cardinals Drive, Glendale, 623.433.7101, azcardinals.com, 1:05 p.m., tickets start at $44.

home game against Colorado. Last season, the Sun Devils fell short to the Buffalos, 28-21, in Boulder.

Sun Devil Stadium, 500 E. Veterans Way, Tempe, 480.965.5812, thesundevils.com, time TBD, ticket prices vary.

Sun Devil Stadium, 500 E. Veterans Way, Tempe, 480.965.5812, thesundevils. com, 7 p.m., ticket prices vary.

Eric Newman >> The Entertainer!

Arizona Diamondbacks vs.

St. Louis Cardinals Arizona Diamondbacks vs.

Cincinnati Reds Phoenix Rising FC vs.

San Antonio Futbol Club

Phoenix Mercury vs.

Seattle Storm

SEPTEMBER 3 Phoenix takes on Seattle for the first home game of the month.

Despite injuries, the Storm will be gearing up for a chance to defend its 2018 WNBA title.

Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.379.7867, mercury.wnba.com, 7 p.m., tickets start at $13.25.

Arizona State Sun Devils football vs. Sacramento State SEPTEMBER 6 ASU opens September with its second home game in as many weeks, hosting Sacramento State.

The last time the two teams matched up, September of 2013, ASU came away with a 55-0 win.

SEPTEMBER 7 Phoenix has proven last year’s conference championship was no fluke, playing some of the best soccer in the USL. This will be the first matchup between the Rising and San Antonio since a 3-3 draw in March to open the season.

Casino Arizona Field, 751 N. McClintock Drive, Tempe, 623.594.9606, phxrisingfc.com, 7:30 p.m., tickets start at $18.

SEPTEMBER 13 NL-rival Cincinnati visits Phoenix on Friday, which means a fan favorite: Fireworks presented by Gila River Hotels and Casinos. For King and Country also performs as part of Faith and Family Night. The series continues September 14 and September 15.

Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.514.8400, dbacks.com, 6:40 p.m., tickets start at $19.

SEPTEMBER 23 It will be a bittersweet night for Diamondbacks fans, as this lateseason game will be a homecoming for former snakes all-star outfielder Paul Goldschmidt, who was traded this offseason. The series continues September 24 with Italian Heritage Night and September 25.

Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.514.8400, dbacks.com, 6:40 p.m., tickets start at $19.

Phoenix Mercury vs.

Seattle Storm

SEPTEMBER 8 Phoenix hosts Las Vegas in the final home game of its 2019 season. The team will give thanks to loyal fans with Fan Appreciation Night, as well.

Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.379.7867, mercury.wnba. com, 1 p.m., tickets start at $13.25.

Arizona Cardinals vs.

Detroit Lions

SEPTEMBER 8 Come see the new-look Cardinals,

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Arizona State Sun Devils football vs. Colorado

SEPTEMBER 21 ASU begins its Pac-12 season with a

SEPTEMBER 29 The third home game in four weeks, Arizona hosts Seattle for the first division rivalry game of the 2019 season. The Seahawks defeated Arizona twice last season, both times by 3 points.

State Farm Stadium, 1 Cardinals Drive, Glendale, 623.433.7101, azcardinals.com, 1:05 p.m., tickets start at $47.

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COMING HOME

44

UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

Josh Rojas makes his mark with the D-backs Griffin Fabits >> The Entertainer

H

ours before the 6:40 first pitch, hours before he was scheduled to make his Chase Field debut with 40 of his family and friends in attendance, Josh Rojas was at his parents’ Goodyear home to get ready for his big night.

“Where are you going?” his sister asked. “I’m going to work,” he quipped.

His Arizona Diamondbacks were hosting the San Francisco Giants on August 15. He didn’t want to be late.

D-backs ace Zack Greinke was traded to Houston in exchange for Rojas and three other top prospects. And Rojas, a 2013 Millennium High School graduate, is still getting acquainted to his new workplace.

“It’s awesome. I was driving to the field today, and I’m driving from home to go play at Chase

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Field,” says Rojas, 25.

It’s been a whirlwind since July 31.

Moments after the 4 p.m.

MLB trade deadline, Rojas was announced as a centerpiece in the Greinke deal. He was assigned to the Diamondbacks’ Triple-A team in Reno the following day.

But his stint with the Aces was short-lived, courtesy of a .514 average, three home runs and 14 RBI in eight games.

He was promoted to the big-league club on August 12.

He made his majorleague debut that evening in Colorado, batting sixth and patrolling left field.

He also tallied his first base hit, finishing 2-for-4, and landed his first RBI. On August 15, Rojas made his Chase Field debut in front of a contingent of family and friends, who flocked the seats behind home plate to watch their hometown kid.

“It felt like everywhere around the stadium I saw somebody waving to me.

I definitely had to try and stay focused on the game. You don’t want to ‘big-league’ anyone. I tried to acknowledge everyone I saw, but obviously, you have a game going on so

you have to focus a little bit.”

Rojas was a three-year varsity starter at Millennium, a career .382 hitter who swatted 11 home runs with 67 RBI. His sophomore year, spring 2011, he was a vital piece in the Tigers’ run to the semifinals round in the state tournament. He was also a three-sport athlete, playing football in the fall, soccer in the winter and baseball in the spring.

Those Millennium baseball teams he played on were some of the “better teams I’ve ever played on,” he says.

“Coming up through Millennium were some of the better players I’ve been around. Coach (Michael) Jacobs was an awesome head coach. He knew how to let us have fun, how to get us to bring it in. We went out and played games hard and had a lot of fun and won a lot of games.”

Life has drastically changed for Rojas since he donned a Tigers uniform. After graduating, he played a few years at Paradise Valley Community College before transferring to the University of Hawaii. He was selected by the Astros in the 26th round of the 2017 MLB Draft.

Rojas made quick work in the Astros’ organization. Since his call-up from the D-backs’ Reno Aces, he’s batting .278 with a double, RBI and three runs

scored, as of August 16.

Manager Torey Lovullo says he plans to give Rojas plenty of playing time over the final six weeks of the season. He told reporters the newly acquired outfielder is a “tremendous player and a tremendous addition to the team.”

Rojas says that comment allows him to relax and focus on playing the kind of baseball that got him here.

“I think one of the biggest things when you come up to the big leagues, the nervousness comes from being afraid to disappoint someone or disappointing your manager and disappointing your teammates,” Rojas says. “I think that’s the biggest thing that can cause nervousness up here. From the day I walked in, I talked to Torey and he told me he wants me to play just how I play, and my teammates in the clubhouse — same way.”

As a hitter, Rojas has been as advertised, hitting safely in four of his first five games. He doesn’t expect the magic of the big leagues to ever fade.

“When I was in Denver, that first game, it wasn’t until the fifth or sixth inning when we had a break, like a pitching change, where I finally had a chance to look around and be like, ‘Wow, this is the big leagues. This is the real deal.’”

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2019

PLAY (FALL) BALL! See future MVPs at this

45

MOUNTAIN POINTE HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE COLE TUCKER OF THE PITTSBURGH PIRATES IS AN ARIZONA FALL LEAGUE VETERAN.

autumn rite of passage Natalie Urquiza >> The Entertainer!

T

he Arizona Fall League launches its first pitch Wednesday, September 18, but this season there are a few changes that will benefit the players and fans.

“We moved the league up a month,” says Daniel Kurish, who has been the Arizona Fall League media communications coordinator for three years.

“We went from playing from October to November to now September to October and that was for the players.”

The move gets rid of the downtime the players had between the end of the minor league season and the start of the Fall League. League officials felt the players would have to gear up again.

The Fall Stars Game is scheduled for Saturday, October 12, at Salt River Fields, and the championship game follows on October 26 at the same venue.

The Mexican Pacific League, a winter league featuring former MLB ballplayers, will play at the Peoria Sports Complex and Salt River Fields.

“The AFL clubs will play in 10 games against teams from the Mexican Pacific

League while the Mesa Solar Sox will play two games in the Mexican Baseball Fiesta,” Kurish says.

The players will also benefit from an ease of restrictions on who can play in the AFL. “We had restrictions on what players could play here that couldn’t exceed their rookie limits,” Kurish says. “If a player played in the Major Leagues long enough, they weren’t eligible to come back in a rehab situation. Now they can send low-level Major-League guys here.”

This season, six teams are playing at four stadiums, due to construction at Scottsdale and Surprise stadiums. They will reopen for the 2020 Spring Training season.

“The Scottsdale Scorpions are playing at Salt River Fields and the Surprise Saguaros are playing at Peoria Sports Complex for now,” Kurish says. “Everything should go back to normal next season.”

Kurish noted the Fall League is working on something great for fans — especially the younger generation.

“We are working on the kids having more access to the players,” Kurish says.

“This year kids under 15 are free to all the games. We really wanted to get the kids involved because it is a kid’s game.”

As of recently, the motto for the MLB ballplayers has been “Let the kids play.”

The AFL is encouraging children to attend games and to enjoy America’s pastime.

The changes don’t stop there. For 27 years, the league has been using the same logos for the six different teams.

“The new logos are just an update to the teams,” Kurish says. “The exception is the Rafters who went from waves to a bat and now back to the waves. Every team now has been issued two different hats.”

In years’ past, the players wore their Major League uniforms and the AFL hat. This year, they’ll be completely decked out in AFL gear.

“It’s been done in the past before, but we are bringing it back,” Kurish says.

The final 2019 roster was scheduled to be released at the end of August, but that’s subject to change.

“The ballplayers have played 142 games in a Minor League season,” Kurish says. “Late season injury could knock someone off the roster.”

“If they want to send guys who aren’t hurt and didn’t make the postseason roster, if they needed more time or get more at bats, they could send him here,” Kurish says. “If they are on the postseason roster, they can’t come down here to play.

They would have to be off the roster.”

AFL veterans are Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Cole Tucker, Andre Ethier, Buster Posey and Mike Trout.

“If you are into the Arizona Fall League, the players’ progression and their journey, it is a must see,” Kurish says. “You get to see the future MVPs, future Cy Young award winners even before anyone knows who they are.”

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46

UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

Two Arizona teens are paving the way for youth soccer Chris Fahrendorf >> The Entertainer!

S

occer isn’t the first thing that comes to most Arizonans’ minds when they think of sports. Basketball, baseball and football all have huge audiences across the Valley and have the big names to back them up — Mike Bibby, Curt Schilling and Terrell Suggs to name a few.

Arizona soccer is growing and has big names of its own. Two Arizona women — Julie Ertz and Jessica McDonald — just finished competing for the World Cup with the U.S. Women’s Team in France.

Closer to home, and working to play on bigger stages, are Ilijah Paul and Brandon Keniston. Paul, 16, and Keniston, 17, are two Arizonaborn teens who are Phoenix Rising teammates. They’re paving the way for Arizona soccer’s future.

ILIJAH PAUL A Gilbert native, Paul is the youngest player signed to the Rising, but it wasn’t an easy road.

Previously, Paul spent six months in Utah as a forward for Real

ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

Salt Lake’s Development Academy.

He moved away from home to get the proper training. He purposely chose an academy so he could “compete at the top levels.”

The adjustment was harder than he thought, but it wasn’t about loneliness or homesickness.

“I like the heat. That’s what I like the most. People say I’m crazy. It’s kind of tough, but I’d rather train in the heat than below zero,” Paul says.

He now travels between the Rising and FC Tucson, an American soccer club that was purchased by the Phoenix Rising in 2017. This is surreal for him because he grew up attending games by

BRANDON KENISTON, LEFT, AND ILIJAH PAUL

Arizona United, the precursor to the Phoenix Rising.

“We always came to these games when it was Arizona United when we were little,” he says. “It’s crazy that I’m from here and that I get to play for my hometown.”

But he sticks to his advice of letting himself be on the pitch.

“I feel like you can’t be the best copycat of anyone else,” Paul says. “You just have to be yourself.”

BRANDON KENISTON Like Paul, Keniston signed with the Phoenix Rising this past year, but he took a much different route to the club.

He played his freshmen year and eight matches of his sophomore year as a goalkeeper for Chaparral High School, while he was with Phoenix

Rising Youth.

He says, “high school soccer in general is more of a fun, competitive environment,” but he learned a lot playing for both teams.

At Chaparral he was forced to mature fast and learned to play with poise by competing with and against upperclassmen who were already committed to play in college.

With Phoenix Rising Youth, the coaches were all “very committed to making each and every young player the best they can.” Keniston says that the coaches put a lot of emphasis on developing the youth and working them through the system. He says that this is done not only to develop their players, but also to prepare them for the next level, whether that be college or pro.

During his sophomore year, Keniston spent a year in Almunecar, Spain playing for FC Malaga City Academy. There he learned lessons that he could not learn in the United States. Keniston says, “you learn a lot about all the different kinds of tactics. You learn how to adapt on the spot during the game.” Unlike high school, the academy taught Keniston “the true grit it takes to get a result anywhere you go.”

Like Paul, Keniston stresses and understands the importance of training with an academy.

Keniston got a taste of professional soccer as a waterboy and ballboy for Arizona United. He looks up to Rising goalkeeper Carl Woszczynski.

Keniston is thankful he’s playing for the Rising as it shows hometown kids they can make it in the pros.

“Being back home and representing Phoenix Rising shows all the kids in the youth systems how much work it takes and if you put the work in you can get to where you want to be,” he says.

Keniston tells kids seeking advice to “never give up.”

“There’s always going to be ups and downs in your youth career,” he says.

“Stay determined and put in the necessary work and you can get to where you want to be.”

48

FAMILY

FROLIC » DISCOVER » IMAGINE » FAMILY » FUN » CONNECT

FAMILY

CALENDAR Katie Sawyer >> The Entertainer!

Museum Discovery Evening

SEPTEMBER 6 Who doesn’t like free things?

The Arizona Museum of Natural History and the i.d.e.a. Museum have partnered to bring families a new — and free — opportunity to teach their kids about Arizona’s rich history and beyond. From dinosaurs and gold mining to hands-on activities and exploratory experiences, these two museums share a lot of fun-filled exhibits for parents to choose from. Enjoy a night at the museum and watch the kids expand their horizons.

Arizona Museum of Natural History, 53 N. Macdonald, Mesa, 480.644.2230, arizonamuseumofnaturalhistory. org; i.d.e.a. Museum, 150 W. Pepper Place, Mesa, ideamuseum. org, 480.644.2468, free.

Children’s Learning & Play Festival

SEPTEMBER 7 WestWorld event center is once again hosting the Children’s Learning and Play Festival. This 300,000-square-foot and airconditioned fest has everything under one roof for kiddos, including wildlife and dinosaur exhibits, costumed characters, bounce houses, police and fire vehicles and games. Food and beverages are available inside.

WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, 480.312.6815, azchildrensfestival.com, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., free, $5 parking.

SplashPad Movie & Food Truck Picnic: “Aladdin”

SEPTEMBER 14 Enjoy the Disney classic “Aladdin” while noshing on food truck flavors at Gateway Park during this bringyour-own-blanket picnic event. Face painting, glow fun, a kids’ dance party and other exciting events will also be available. The party is free to participate but prices vary for the activities and food trucks.

Gateway Park, 10100 N. El Mirage Road, El Mirage, 480.406.1200, iplaymovies4you. com, 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., free.

#AXOSMASH Smash Bros.

Ultimate Tournament

SEPTEMBER 20 For those who have a gamer in the family, they’ll most likely be familiar with Smash Bros., the Nintendo fighting game that includes crossover characters from many of their franchises. Gamers take the battle seriously and will smash to the death in this real-life tournament. Participants and viewers are welcome. Firstplace winner receives $200, second receives $100 and third receives $50.

AZ CoWork, 13835 N. Northsight Boulevard, No. 100, Scottsdale, smash.gg, smash@ axosoft.com, 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. $15 for spectators, $60 for team registration.

Arizona Donut and Ice Cream Festival

SEPTEMBER 22 Indulge in what your kids have been begging for all summer and treat the family to all the donuts and ice cream they want. This sugar fest has 15 different restaurants serving

warm donuts and brain-freezing ice cream, not to mention specialty items like churros and bubble waffle cones — all for under $5 each. If you can escape the kiddos, there’s also cocktails and beer offered while you stroll through the artists marketplace.

The Pressroom, 441 W. Madison Street, Phoenix, 602.396.7136, thepressroomaz. com, noon to 4 p.m., free.

“Frozen Jr.”

SEPTEMBER 27 TO SEPTEMBER 28 “Frozen” took theaters by storm when it was released in 2013, and the youth at Fountain Hills Theater are bringing it back to life in this musical theater performance “Frozen Jr.” The pint-sized performers are sure to wow and impress the family with the story kids know and love performed live on stage. Don’t let it go!

Fountain Hills Theater, 11445 N. Saguaro Boulevard, Fountain Hills, 480.837.9661, fhtaz.org, 7 p.m., $18.

Arizona Diamondbacks vs.

San Diego Padres

SEPTEMBER 27 TO SEPTEMBER 29 Take the family out to the ballgame and watch the Diamondbacks take on the Padres in what is sure to be a tough game. Enjoy the many amenities that Chase Field has to offer such as food, beverages, alcohol and sweet treats on a stick. Wearing your team colors of choice, steer clear of any foul balls and enjoy the American pastime. The Padre’s games have three days of special events, too. Italian Heritage Night is September 24 and those with a ticket package will get a red, white and green baseball hat.

September 28 is “Cat-urday,” which features a limited-edition jersey for those who purchase a special package. The first 20,000 guests on September 29 receive a bucket hat.

Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.514.8400, dbacks.com, 6:40 p.m. Friday, 5:10 p.m. Saturday, 12:10 p.m.

Sunday, tickets start at $16.

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Free Movie Night: “Detective Pikachu”

SEPTEMBER 28 Head to Arizona Sports Complex on September 28 and prepare to dive into the world of Pokemon. The ’90s much-loved card game, turned TV show, turned billion-dollar gaming empire has been handed down to the next generation with the feature film “Detective Pikachu” starring Ryan Reynolds. The PG flick is parent approved and kid adored. Grab your beach chairs and blankets and meet on the field for a free night of fun.

Arizona Sports Complex, 3555 W. Pinnacle Peak Road, Glendale, 480.406.1200, iplaymovies4you. com, 5 to 9 p.m., free.

Family Fun Action & Adventure Festival

SEPTEMBER 28 Everybody has an idol, and your kids’ favorite superheroes will be right here in Arizona at the OdySea Aquarium for a day of family fun. Ride on the zipline, have your face painted to match your favorite super and be treated to some live music — all for free. Shopping will be available, and the aquarium will be open to visitors.

OdySea Aquarium, 9500 E. Via de Ventura, Scottsdale, 480.291.8000, odyseaaquarium. com, noon to 4 p.m., free.

Kids and Family Yoga

SEPTEMBER 30 With school just starting and all the homework, extracurriculars and stress that come with it, your kids will thank you for taking them to this relaxing kid and family yoga session. The session is structured for the wee ones, so it offers an all-levels, 30-minute class. Throw your mats, beach towels or blankets in the car and enjoy the freebie class. This month’s theme is underwater, so dress to impress and you may just win a prize!

Desert Ridge Marketplace, 21001 N. Tatum Boulevard, Suites 461515, Phoenix, 480.513.7586, shopdesertridge.com, 6 p.m., free.

THE PACK EXPANDS

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2019

49

Arizona will soon welcome Great Wolf Lodge waterpark resort Octavio Serrano >> The Entertainer!

W

ith electronic devices dominating dinners and vacations, Great Wolf Lodge is aiming to bring families back together with its new location in Scottsdale.

“Our goal is designed to help families reconnect and create those special memories that are really going to last a lifetime,” says Brian Johnson, Great Wolf Lodge Arizona general manager.

The water-themed resort will open its doors September 27 with 350 rooms, a water park, a dry playground and restaurants.

The largest attraction is the 85,000-square-foot indoor water park with 13 slides. Kept at 84 degrees year-round, the Great Wolf Lodge indoor water park keeps families cool during Scottsdale’s scorching summers.

Great Wolf Resorts also has lodge locations in Wisconsin, Ohio, Michigan, Kansas, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Ontario, Texas, Washington, Massachusetts, North Carolina, California, Colorado, Minnesota, Georgia and Illinois.

A Scottsdale highlight is a bucket that soaks bystanders, according to Murray Hennessy, Great Wolf Lodge’s chief

executive officer.

“That bucket, which contains 1,000 gallons of water, will drop the water every 3 or 4 minutes,” Hennessy said.

While designing Great Wolf Lodge, the staff kept Arizona in mind. An attraction is the Diamondback Drop.

“It’s a first for Great Wolf Lodge, but it’s also a first for North America and

indeed it’s the first of its kind anywhere,” Hennessy says.

“It’s called the Diamondback Drop, and it starts with serpentine curves, some 360-degree coils and it drops them (guests) into what we call the belly of the snake.”

Great Wolf Lodge’s traditional water slides have made the resorts popular with families.

“We also have our classic Wolf Tail, which is like a glass tube that you stand in and after a few seconds, the floor drops away and you free fall onto a slide and then end up in the pool below,” Hennessy says.

Kids who want to take a break from the water can take on obstacle courses and be part of a live-action adventure.

“We have a 27,000-square-foot dry play area and it’s called Great Wolf Adventure Park,” Hennessy says.

“You will find a rope course, climbing wall, mini golf, 10-pin bowling and MagiQuest, which is our in-house signature interactive game.”

At MagiQuest, kids — armed with a “magic wand” — can participate in adventures like battling dragons and befriending pixies. If they don’t finish their game before checking out of the resort, they can resume when they return with their wand.

Other activities include the “Moonstone Mine,” where children can be part of an interactive mining experience with mirrors. The “Northern Lights Arcade” is an interactive video and redemption game where guests can redeem their points for prizes.

The Great Wolf Lodge rooms range in size from five to 13 people. The Family Suite is a traditional room that sleeps up to six guests and features two queen beds and a full sofa sleeper.

The Wolf Den Suite sleeps up to seven guests and features a queen bed and a full sofa sleeper. The key is the Great

Wolf kids-themed cabin with bunk beds in their own section of the room.

The Deluxe Wolf Den Suite is for larger parties, and sleeps up to 12 guests.

It has an in-suite cave-themed sleeping area with a queen-sized bed, a private bedroom with two queen beds and two bathrooms.

Great Wolf Lodge has put just as much effort into the nine food offerings.

Chef Grant Baker was appointed as the executive chef to deliver a menu to lodge guests that stays true to Arizona’s culture.

“This has always been the dream, and I mean that literally because cooking is my passion and guest service is my passion,” Baker says.

Campfire Kitchen serves an a la carte breakfast menu of traditional tastes like farm-fresh eggs, Applewood smoked bacon, signature wolf paw-shaped waffles and fresh fruits. Kid-friendly items like mac and cheese and chicken tenders are available.

Hungry as a Wolf has made-to-order handcrafted pizzas, fresh salads, chicken wings, pastas and sandwiches.

Grown-ups can imbibe at the rustic themed Barnwood, with indoor and outdoor seating and an evolving menu.

Cocktails, wines and craft beers will be available to accompany meals.

For dessert, Great Wolf Lodge will feature a Ben & Jerry’s ice cream and Dunkin’ Donuts.

“We are excited to bring a diverse variety of dining options to families visiting Great Wolf Lodge Arizona,” says Mark Nelson, food and beverage director.

“With an electric array of restaurants, dishes that address common allergies and dietary restrictions, and menus featuring fresh ingredients from local purveyors and farmers, we are confident family members of all ages will love the culinary offerings at Great Wolf Lodge Arizona as much as the water slides.”

Great Wolf Lodge Arizona 7333 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, 480.948.9653, greatwolf.com/ Arizona ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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MUSIC

LISTEN » JAM » INNOVATE » EVOLVE » ROCK » SING

LIVE MUSIC

CALENDAR Shane Crowe >> The Entertainer!

SEPTEMBER 2 Skillet w/ Sevendust Marquee Theatre, 7 p.m., $42.50-$62.50

Ottmar Liebert & Luna Negra

MIM Music Theater, 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., $43.50-$48.50

SEPTEMBER 3 Ottmar Liebert & Luna Negra

Life and Boys Don’t Cry

Celebrity Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $40-$140

Oso Oso w/The Sidekicks and Future Teens

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $14-$16

SEPTEMBER 6 Greensky Bluegrass

The Van Buren, 7 p.m., $47-$171

Cold Shott & The Hurricane Horns

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $10

MIM Music Theater, 7 p.m., $43.50-$48.50

Why? w/ Barrie

K.Flay

Brian Wilson w/The Zombies

Marquee Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $22-$125

Tessa Violet

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $17 Comerica Theatre, 8 p.m., $65-$601

Fan Halen

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $15

The Showroom at Casino Arizona, 7:30 p.m., $17.50

The National

Great White w/ Slaughter

Comerica Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $34-$542

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, 8 p.m., $34.50-$153

Popa Chubby

The Rhythm Room, 8:30 p.m., $38

Band of Skulls

David Crosby

Celebrity Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $65-$363

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $25-$28

Phony Ppl

SEPTEMBER 8

Lil Keed

SuicideGirls

Marquee Theatre, 9 p.m., $30-$135

Marmalade Skies

Pub Rock Live, 8 p.m., $15-$20 Club Red, 8 p.m., $28-$32

SEPTEMBER 13

The Rhythm Room, 4 p.m., $15

Scarlxrd

SEPTEMBER 10

Buckcherry

John Mayer

Talking Stick Resort Arena, 7:30 p.m., $54-$3,300

Flor w/Joan

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $18-$20

Black Flag

Marquee Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $25-$55

The Rocket Summer

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $32-$72 Marquee Theatre, 6 p.m., $25-$45

James Arthur

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., Sold Out

Grayscale w/Bearings, Belmont and Rich People Pub Rock Live, 6:30 p.m., $16

Mana

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $20-$23

Talking Stick Resort Arena, 8 p.m., $100-$1275

Tab Benoit

Dave Matthews Band

Akrona w/Metasatoll and Wind Rose

Corazon De Mana

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $35

Club Red, 6 p.m., $20-$23

SEPTEMBER 11 Tab Benoit

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $35

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 8 p.m., $62.69-$836

The Showroom at Casino Arizona, 7:30 p.m., $17.50

SEPTEMBER 14 Eric Clapton

Adrian Belew

Talking Stick Resort Arena, 7:30 p.m., $84.75-$2,700

SEPTEMBER 4

SEPTEMBER 7

The 5.6.7.8’s w/ The Darts

The Iron Maidens

Explosions in the Sky

Half Alive

Angels and Airwaves

Aesthetic Perfection w/Empathy Test

Kiana Lede

Paulina Rubio

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $22-$25 Marquee Theatre, 7:30 p.m., Sold Out

SEPTEMBER 5 Cross Record

Trunk Space, 8 p.m., $8

“Lost ’80s Live” featuring A Flock of Seagulls, Wang Chung, Farrington, The Vapors, Real

Marquee Theatre, 5:45 p.m., $20-$42

Club Red, 6 p.m., $18-$23

Fan Halen

The Showroom at Casino Arizona, 7:30 p.m., $17.50

Warrant

The Showroom at Talking Stick Resort, 8 p.m., $60-$178

Marc Rebillet

CRESCENT BALLROOM, 8 P.M. MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, SOLD OUT

The Loop Daddy himself is embarking on The Comeback Tour and stopping in Phoenix for an improvised concert.

Using his vocals, a keyboard and a loop station, Marc Rebillet creates compositions on the spot, featuring anything from philosophy to bathroom humor.

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $45-$78 Mesa Arts Center Ikeda Theater, 8 p.m., $50-$583

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $23-$25

Marquee Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $53-$112

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $42-$142

SEPTEMBER 12

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $12

That 1 Guy

Maren Morris

Corazon De Mana

Olivia Gatwood

SEPTEMBER 15

Mesa Amphitheatre, 7 p.m., $76-$104 Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $16

The Showroom at Casino Arizona, 7:30 p.m., $17.50

Girl Ultra w/ Clubz

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $20

Breaking Benjamin w/Three Days Grace, Chevelle, Diamante and Dorothy Ak-Chin Pavilion, 5:30 p.m., $29.50-$724.50

Squeeze

Chandler Center for the Arts, 7 p.m., $48-$58

Kataklysm w/Exhorder, Krisiun and Hatchet Club Red, 6 p.m., $25-$30

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2019

SEPTEMBER 16

Charli XCX

Phantogram w/ Bob Moses

MARQUEE THEATRE, 7 P.M. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, $30-$60

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $40-$45

Mumford & Sons w/Gang of Youths

Following the release of her third studio album “Charli,” self-proclaimed pop savior Charli XCX will come to the Marquee Theatre. Prior to the release of “Charli,” she released two mixtapes, “Number 1 Angel” and “Pop 2,” which consist of experimental pop and dance music. In support of the release of “Charli,” she has released the singles “1999” and “Blame It on Your Love,” which continue to display her unique sound, style and charisma.

Talking Stick Resort Arena, 7:30 p.m., $49-$1,200

Crumb w/ Divino Niño and Shormey Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $20-$25

SEPTEMBER 17 Sadgirl w/ Kate Clover

Loud Luxury

The Lunchbox, 8 p.m., $13

The Van Buren, 9 p.m., $20-$30

Iron Maiden w/The Raven Age

SEPTEMBER 21

Talking Stick Resort Arena, 7:30 p.m., $44.75-$129

Benjamin Francis Leftwich Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $17-$20

SEPTEMBER 18

Tash Sultana w/The Teskey Brothers

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., Sold Out

Surfside IV

The Rhythm Room, 7:30 p.m., $12

Flying Lotus

Iya Terra

Lenny Kravitz

Aaron Neville

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $30-$33

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $12

Jeff Beck

Celebrity Theatre, 8 p.m., $74-$459

Moonchild

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $26-$75

Sabrina Claudio

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $27.50-$30

Giuda

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $15

SEPTEMBER 26

Chandler Center for the Arts, 7:30 p.m., $47-$157

Eluveitie w/Korpiklaani

Boogarins

Maluma

Don Broco

Hail the Sun w/Strawberry Girls, Royal Coda and VIS

Mark Knopfler

Comerica Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $77-$639 Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $15

Club Red, 6:30 p.m., $16

SEPTEMBER 19 Florida Georgia Line w/Canaan Smith and Dan & Shay

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 7:30 p.m., $61-$478

Los Angeles Azules

Comerica Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $46-$511

Kansas

Mesa Arts Center Ikeda Theater, 7:30 p.m., $43-$128

Smile Empty Soul w/ September Mourning Pub Rock Live, 7 p.m., $15

SEPTEMBER 20 Sugar Thieves

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $10

Casting Crowns w/Kari Jobe, Cody Carnes and Jamie Kimmett

Grand Canyon University Arena, 7:30 p.m., $39-$341

Lifehouse

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, 8 p.m., $47-$262

Benise: Fuego!

Orpheum Theatre, 8 p.m., $79-$448

Franco Escamilla

Comerica Theatre, 8:30 p.m., $65-$736

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Talking Stick Resort Arena, 8 p.m., $78-$1,327 Comerica Theatre, 8 p.m., $50-$859

God is an Astronaut

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $20-$23

Toto

Celebrity Theatre, 8 p.m., $40-$80

Phoenix Symphony: Tito Munoz

Club Red, 6 p.m., $30-$35

Nile Theater, 6 p.m., $27-$57

Grieves w/Mouse Powell

Crescent Ballroom, 7 p.m., $16-$56

Peter Frampton w/Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Experience Comerica Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $59.50-$229.50

Tank and The Bangas w/Blackalicious

Phoenix Symphony Hall, 7:30 p.m., $35-$103

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $30-$35

SEPTEMBER 22

Lauren Daigle

The Regrettes

Crescent Ballroom, 7:30 p.m., $16-$18

Phoenix Symphony: Tito Munoz

SEPTEMBER 27 Grand Canyon University Arena, 7 p.m., $83-$377

Bob James w/David Sanborn, Marcus Miller and Billy Kilson

Bob Corritore w/L.A. Jones, Oscar Wilson, Alabama Mike and The Fremonts The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $20

Camila w/ Sin Bandera Comerica Theatre, 8 p.m., $68.50-$138.50

India.Arie

Chandler Center for the Arts, 7:30 p.m., $48-$78

Lewis Capaldi

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $25-$28

Phoenix Symphony: Matthew Kasper and Michael Cavanaugh

Phoenix Symphony Hall, 2 p.m., 7:30 p.m., $66-$150

Baeza

Exodus Cultural Center, 6 p.m., $18-$100

Josh Turner

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, 8 p.m., $35-$88

Night Ranger

Ovations Live! At Wild Horse Pass, 8 p.m., $71-$257

SEPTEMBER 29 Flogging Molly w/Social Distortion, Le Butcherettes, The Devil Makes Three

Mesa Amphitheatre, 6 p.m., $69-$101

The Australian Pink Floyd Show Chandler Center for the Arts, 7 p.m., $38-$88

Phoenix Symphony Hall, 2 p.m., $30-$98

MIM Music Theater, 7 p.m., $58.50-$88.50

Being as An Ocean w/De’Wayne Jackson and Holding Absence

Charli XCX

Blue Oyster Cult

The Goddamn Gallows w/ Scott H. Biram and Urban Pioneers

Hoodie Allen w/Jake Miller

Club Red, 6:30 p.m., $18

SEPTEMBER 23 Russian Circles w/ Facs

Nile Theater, 7 p.m., $18-$20

Marc Rebillet

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $15

SEPTEMBER 24 Gary Clark Jr.

Comerica Theatre, 7:30 p.m., Sold Out

Sinkane

Last Exit Live, 7 p.m., $15

Marquee Theatre, 7 p.m., $30-$60

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $18-$20

Marianas Trench

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $25-$30

New Power Generation

Chandler Center for the Arts, 7:30 p.m., $38-$58

TWRP

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $15-$18

SEPTEMBER 28 Muna

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $22

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $42-$87 Club Red, 8 p.m., $54-$75

SEPTEMBER 30 Stolen Jars w/Malta Trunk Space, 8 p.m., $8

Jenny Lewis

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $45.52$374.50

Carbon Leaf

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $20-$30

Voivod w/Revocation

Club Red, 6 p.m., $25-$27

Kid Quill

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $15 ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

Remembering Prince 52

UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

New Power Generation keeps the purple one’s vibe alive Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

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hen Prince passed away, his longtime musical director, Morris Hayes, wasn’t surprised by the honors and the memorials that followed.

“Prince was No. 1. He was an iconic superstar in terms of music,” Hayes says.

“Prince was a rock stars’ rock star.

I was with him for 20 years. He was the biggest person in the room, no matter where he was. At the same time, with opioids in the press and in the media, when somebody as big as Prince succumbs to that, that’s a big news story.

With celebrities, it reminds us there’s a really huge problem.”

He was shocked by the purple hue that took over the world.

“Every place went purple,” he says.

“That was mind-boggling to me — the Sydney Opera House, for example. That was a powerful thing for an enigmatic artist. We knew he was a big star and a big celebrity, but it went beyond what I imagined.”

New Power Generation comes to the

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Chandler Center for the Arts on Friday, September 27, to spread Prince’s musical message.

After years of touring, recording,

playing and performing with Prince, the members of the New Power Generation perform a nonstop musical kaleidoscope of Prince’s most iconic hits. The show features classic Prince & the NPG songs like “Cream,” “Sexy MF,” “Get Off” and “Diamonds & Pearls,” intermingled with songs like “Nothing Compares 2 U,” “1999,” “Let’s Go Crazy,” “Pop Life,” “Purple Rain” and “Kiss.”

“Fans can expect the same level of performance people were used to when they saw Prince — minus Prince,” Hayes says. “One of the things we want to bring to that show is the same level of professionalism and musical quality.

“We’re acutely aware it’s a different situation without Prince at the helm. We respect the music and pay tribute in a way that Prince would be proud.”

Hayes had an inkling that New Power Generation would be able to continue.

After Prince died, the NPG performed during a tribute in St. Paul. The more than five-hour concert featured 52 songs.

“There was so much music,” he says.

“It was such a great tribute. We had Stevie Wonder, Chaka Khan, Doug E. Fresh. It was like a long overdue family reunion. It was a sad situation, but we all felt really good about it.

“Our former manager was there, and she saw it. She saw how grateful everyone was. There’s still an appetite for Prince’s music to be performed live.”

Hayes enjoys sharing stories about

Prince as well. That’s something else fans can expect from the band — guitarist/ vocalist Tony Mosley, bassist Sonny Thompson, percussionist/vocalist/ drummer Damon Dickson and guitarist Levi Seacer Jr. NPG’s lead singer is the charismatic MacKenzie, a Los Angelesbased singer, originally from a small town in Virginia.

“I was with Prince for 20 years,” Hayes says.

“I remember one time, we saw Robert Downey Jr., who plays Iron Man. We were at a place in L.A. I saw him across the way with his friends, ‘Oh man, there’s Prince.’ He was just trying to build his courage to say something.

“It happens all the time — maybe not Iron Man. We were getting ready to leave and when we get in that mode to go to the car, Prince got up, the security guard got up and they went to the car.

Prince walked right by Robert Downey Jr. It was a crushing moment. He shot down Iron Man.” Eventually, Prince invited Downey to his home.

“That’s how huge Prince was, though.

He was always a presence.”

New Power Generation Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Avenue, Chandler, 480.782.2680, chandlercenter. org, 7:30 p.m. Friday, September 27, $38-$58.

COOL FOR FANS

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2019

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Squeeze will cover its songbook during Chandler Center show Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

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he English pop band Squeeze has a catalog filled with hits like “Hourglass,” “Temped,” “Black Coffee in Bed,” “Cool for Cats” and “Up the Junction.”

They’ll celebrate their 45-plus year career on the Chandler Center for the Arts on Sunday, September 15.

“Fans can expect the unexpected,” says singer Glenn Tilbrook. “We’re a good live band and that’s not changed.

What we can do now is augment the live presentation with film. The way technology has gone, it helps us to do what we couldn’t have done back in the day, but we never lost sight that we’re a great live band.”

Squeeze is seeing something of a renaissance, with major festival shows and two critically acclaimed albums in the last three years.

“I feel excited about the tour,” says guitarist Chris Difford. “It’s a great band full of dedicated, hardworking, passionate people and we have a fabulous catalogue of songs to dip in and out of, so I feel completely blessed. I can’t wait to strap on the electric guitar again and sing the songs that got me where I am

today.”

Difford and Tilbrook have been compared to Lennon and McCartney since “Take Me I’m Yours,” their first release in 1978, blasted the band into the forefront of the U.K. music scene.

Following hits including Squeeze established themselves as a vital part of the quintessential rock scene. These hits also established Difford and Tilbrook as two of the most prolific songwriters of their time.

Writing new music, Tilbrook says, is “good for the soul.”

“You have to really push yourself,” he says. “We’ve done two new albums (recently). I’m immensely proud of those records. There’s a little distance between them now, so I can say they’re great achievements for us as writers.”

Tilbrook is always writing, whether it’s a songwriting session or just jotting things down.

“Musically, I record bits and pieces on my phone,” he says. “I deliberately work in a chaotic way, so I don’t know what I have. I don’t like to catalog what I have. I don’t like to be aware of the stuff I have.

Whenever I get an idea, I will write it down and pursue it as much or as little as I can.

“I go back at a different point and see what works. Sometimes it takes years

to come through that way. No one way is the best way. Half of writing is how you arrange it. I’ve always believed working with a band, you play to the band’s strengths. That can influence the way you arrange stuff. Part of having a band you love is you want to see where they’ll go with it. It’s a bit of a mystery.”

One thing Tilbrook does know is Squeeze’s music is “relatively upbeat” and fun to play live.

“The band we have is a fantastic band,” adds Tilbrook, who is joined by Difford, keyboardist Stephen Large, bassist/

vocalist Yolanda Charles, drummer Simon Hanson, Melvin Duffy on pedal steel, and Dirty Vegas’ Steve Smith on percussion, vocals and guitars. “We’re the best Squeeze has ever been. It’s a real honor to play with these people.”

Squeeze: The Squeeze Songbook Tour w/X Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Avenue, Chandler, 480.782.2680, chandlercenter. org, 7 p.m. Sunday, September 15, $48-$78.

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REMEMBER HIS NAME

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

David Crosby shares his love of music with his son and their audiences Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

D

avid Crosby doesn’t necessarily feel comfortable doing interviews, but he reserves comment until the end of the talk.

“I’m sorry,” he says. “My music speaks for me better than I do.”

Crosby needn’t apologize. During a 20-minute conversation, he covers a slew of topics, ranging from the reunion with his son/keyboardist, James Raymond, to the documentary, “David Crosby: Remember My Name” by Cameron Crowe.

The two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and co-founder of the Byrds and Crosby, Stills & Nash, Crosby will be joined by Raymond when he plays the Celebrity Theatre on Thursday, September 12. The rest of his band include bassist Mai Leisz (pronounced “lease”), drummer Steve DiSanislao, guitarist Jeff Pevar and keyboardist/ vocalist Michelle Willis.

Together, they will promote Crosby’s album “Sky Trails,” and play other songs from across his catalog.

“The band starts with the keyboard player. He’s my son,” Crosby says proudly. He hasn’t publicly named

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Raymond’s mother, with whom he gave the baby up for adoption in the 1960s.

“He was about to have his first child and he went looking to find out who his genetic parents were. It was a total gift.

It turns out he’s a better musician than I am.”

Crosby calls Raymond a “stunning writer” with whom he has worked since they were brought together. As a matter of fact, Crosby says, the father and son had just taken a break from songwriting.

“We just have an incredible partnership,” Crosby says. “We teamed up with Jeff Pevar, who’s an amazing guitar player, nothing less. He’s a good singer and a good writer. We perform together as CPR. Jeff is in the band also.

“James brought his lifelong friend, Steve DiSanislao, as the drummer.

Steve is now David Gilmour’s drummer He’s a very sought-after musician. Then there’s the bassist, Mai Leisz. She’s from Estonia, and a girl who’s in both of my bands who’s such a good singer, Michelle Willis. She plays keyboards, too.”

Released in 2017, “Sky Trails” is Crosby’s sixth solo album. Overseen

by Raymond, the project sports sophisticated, jazzy arrangements.

Highlights include the Steely Dan-ish “She’s Got to be Somewhere,” “Before Tomorrow Falls on Love,” co-written with Michael McDonald and “Amelia,”

Joni Mitchell’s 1976 reflection on the incompatibility of art and love. Crosby’s political side is represented by “Capitol.”

Crosby says Raymond is also responsible for another album he’s made in the last five years, “Croz.”

“They are two of the best records I’ve ever made in my life,” Crosby adds.

“They’re stunners. I shouldn’t be the one saying this, but they are amazing records.”

Crosby and Raymond are both jazzinfluenced musicians who enjoy playing complex material. The imagery comes through when they’re together.

“We love writing and we are good at it,” he says. “We have a really good time when we do it. When I found out he was a musician and could write music, I took a set of words to him about Jim Morrison and a song I’d written called ‘Morrison.’ It was so good. He pulled a cassette tape out, put it in his truck and played it for me. I felt I died and gone to heaven. It was so good.”

The two perform “Morrison” with CPR. Crosby’s tale has been told through the eyes of Crowe in “David Crosby: Remember My Name,” which was released on July 19. The producer and Crosby are longtime friends.

“You know the movie ‘Almost Famous’?” he asks. “We were the band.

He was the kid.

“The documentary is amazing for a

couple reasons. He’s very good at it and he’s a brilliant filmmaker. He’s known me since he was 16 years old. He knows all of it — everything; the good, the bad and the ugly. He knows the whole deal.

He and I didn’t want to hide anything.

We knew it would be painful. We went deeper than we thought we were going to go.”

Crosby says the result is a “remarkably honest piece of work.” The painful truths of his health issues, the dissolution of Crosby, Stills and Nash and his music make the film stand out.

“It’s hard being naked in public,” he says. “But I was safe in the sense they would be honest. They wouldn’t cover anything up. I had a confidant in (director) A.J. Eaton and Cameron going in. It mattered to them that we be honest as much as it mattered to me, which I hadn’t found before.”

Still, through his decades-long career, Crosby doesn’t feel like anything special.

“I don’t feel like a celebrity,” Crosby says surprisingly. “I do really love making music, though.”

David Crosby and Friends 7:30 p.m. Thursday, September 12 Celebrity Theatre, 440 N. 32nd Street, Phoenix Tickets are $40, $65 and $85 602-267-1600, celebritytheatre. com

LEGENDARY STATUS THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2019

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Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers are pinching themselves over honor Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

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oger Clyne has never regretted getting kicked out of ASU’s school of music.

After all, his adopted major — psychology with a minor in anthropology — brought him closer to Mexican culture. A Spanish immersion class introduced him to mariachis in Ensenada, Mexico. He hung out with them, earned their trust, and “learned so much about how deep that tradition goes and how meaningful those songs are.”

He learned about the music’s tradition, the technicality, the syncopation and the polyrhythms. He incorporates it into Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers’ music regularly.

But Clyne was always into all-things Mexico, thanks to his grandparents’ ranch near the border in Sonoita.

“I was already in love with it,” he says.

“It was an excuse for me to visit and get credit for it.

“We worked a lot on the ranch, before the border was (controversial). American and Mexican was blended together. I learned my first words in Spanish as a kid. We shared work and meals. I’m in love with the south-of-the-border

culture. I hate how it’s become ‘us and them.’ It’s so divisive. We need to be neighbors, not fence makers.”

LEGEND STATUS His original sounds and relentlessly catchy lyrics — not to mention his dedication to the state of Arizona — led the band to the Arizona Music Hall of Fame. The band is celebrating its 20th anniversary as well.

“I’m still pinching myself,” he says.

“Our fellow inductees — Pistoleros, Dead Hot Workshop, Bob Meighan, Long Wong’s and Fender Musical Instruments — were my heroes. To be inducted as a peer with your heroes, is really a strange thing for me.”

The band is touring, but when the musicians return home, Clyne will finish the new songs he’s written. They’re demos, but he’ll circulate them among the Peacemakers.

“I just start writing and following the muse,” he says.

Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers will play a slew of their hits at the Hay Day Music Fest at Hayden Square Amphitheater on Saturday, September 28. Presented by Mill Avenue’s Pedal Haus Brewery and Ted’s Refreshments, the festival will feature Wise Monkey Orchestra and The Hourglass Cats, too.

Clyne is pleased he’s helping rejuvenate Hayden Square Amphitheater and keeping the Tempe music scene alive.

“Some comedian said once, ‘What’s the difference between a job and a career? A job is when you can’t wait for 5 to show up. A career is when 5 shows up and you wish you had more time.’

We have a career and it’s a fantastic blessing.”

Hay Day Music Fest w/ Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers Hayden Square Amphitheater, 404 S. Mill Avenue, Tempe, tedsrefreshments.com, 2 to 11:30 p.m. Saturday, September 28, $40 in advance, $50 at the door, $100 for VIP package.

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NIGHTLIFE

SIP » UNLEASH » MIX » MINGLE » PULSE » SHAKE Burial Grounds Festival

NIGHTLIFE

CALENDAR Katie Sawyer >> The Entertainer!

Hosh

SEPTEMBER 11 Always one to favor the house vibe, Hosh maintains his fan base with a slew of fresh sounds in his mixes.

Step into the mind of this artist, and you’ll be greeted by an eclectic mix of different cultures, instruments and vocalizing. His most popular song, “Woohoo,” is no different, and a definite crowd-pleaser.

Bar Smith, 130 E. Washington Street, Phoenix, 602.456.1991, eventbrite.com, 9 p.m., $5-$15, 21 and older.

and “Supernatural” with Anjulie.

His style has a distinctly metallic quality, with a good trap beat and a heavy hand on the bass.

Varsity Tavern, 501 S. Mill Avenue, Suite 201, Tempe, 480.534.8620, seetickets. us, 10 p.m., $10, 18 and older.

JackLNDN

SEPTEMBER 13 Looking for the more chill side of EDM? You’re not alone, and JackLNDN has you covered. This electronic artist has a trance-like quality to his music, and he uses repetition to his advantage to create a beat you won’t be able to stop dancing to. He has a glittery, spacey feel perfect for the underground — and very eclectic — Valley Bar. Valley Bar, 130 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, 602.368.3121, eventbrite.com, 8 p.m., $15, 21 and older.

Andrew Rayel

Quix

SEPTEMBER 12 Quix is a master manipulator of genres, and his large repertoire of collabs and features proves he’s one to mix it up in the studio. His latest song “Time,” features Alison Wonderland for a dreamy sound that mimics some of the other styles he uses in his hits like “Berserk” with Yung Bambi and Luca Lush

SEPTEMBER 13 Andrei Rață, better known under his alias Andrew Rayel, is a Moldovan producer and DJ from Chișinău, Moldova. Rayel came into the EDM scene in 2009 at just 17 years old and was signed under the Armada Music label founded by Armin van Buuren.

He has performed at the world’s top festivals including Ultra Music Festival, Tomorrowland, Stereosonic and Electric Daisy Carnival. Rayel’s top hits include “Aether,” “I’ll Be There,” “Mass Effect” and “Horizon.”

Māyā Day + Nightclub, 7333 E. Indian Plaza Scottsdale, mayaclubaz.com, sletickets. com, 10 p.m., ticket prices TBA.

SEPTEMBER 14 This one’s for the bassheads of the EDM community, who love a good neckbreaker and never say no to a mosh pit. Ride the rail and be treated to numerous artists that know how to turn up and get dark. Just a few of the many in attendance include Modestep, Infekt, Hi I’m Ghost, MVRDA, SampliFire, Lit Lords.

The Pressroom, 441 W. Madison Street, Phoenix, 602.396.7136, trvpnghtz.com, 7 p.m., $15-$85, 18 and older.

Loud Luxury

SEPTEMBER 20 The two Canadians behind Loud Luxury know how to make an anthem for any occasion and embody big-room EDM. They blasted into the scene in 2017 with their mega hit “Body” with over 555 million listens on Spotify.

Since then, they’ve stayed busy, releasing their latest single “I’m Not Alright” in July 2019. Their bops are perfect for a lit and loud venue like The Van Buren, or just for screaming along in the car — we’ve all done it.

The Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren Street, Phoenix, 480.659.1641, thevanburenphx.com, 8 p.m., $40-$45, 13 and older.

Golden Features

SEPTEMBER 21 The formerly masked and unknown artist now has a name with the mask.

Thomas Stell, a Sydney artist, wore his signature metallic, chiseled and faceless mask before revealing his true identity to keep his darkwave, deep house style alive and fresh.

His December 2018 album remains iconic in the community with top hits like “Falling out” and “Worship.”

Shady Park, 26 E. University Drive, Tempe, 480.474.4222. relentlessbeats.com, 9 p.m., $15, 21 and older.

Borgeous

SEPTEMBER 21 You may know him best from an old favorite “Tsunami,” but this artist is still putting out fresh music in 2019, and he’s headed to Varsity Tavern for the next leg of his national tour. In the past, he’s had a techno, dance style to his music, but his newest single “Better Anyway” with Runaground strays from his norm. The song serves major Marshmello vibes with a pop beat, hype lyrics and a modern feel.

Varsity Tavern, 501 S. Mill Avenue, Suite 201, Tempe, 480.534.8620, songkick.com, 11 p.m., ticket prices TBA, 21 and older.

Goldrush Music Festival

SEPTEMBER 27 TO SEPTEMBER 28 Anyone familiar with the big raves of Arizona knows this two-dayer is a top priority. With the Rawhide venue decked out in western swag and a list of chart toppers in attendance, this is shaping up to be one of the biggest and best EDM festivals Arizona has to offer in 2019. Alison Wonderland, Ghastly, Troyboi, Zomboy, Paz, Hermitude, Don Diablo are just some of the artists already on the VIP list to perform. Bass-lover Alison Wonderland will stop hearts with her deep beats, and Ghastly — a Buckeye native — always makes sure to put on the best show, complete with some serious lasers and lights, for his fellow Arizonans.

Rawhide Event Center, 5700 W. North Loop Road, Chandler, 480.502.5600, relentlessbeats. com, 5 p.m., $89 for one day, $159 for weekend, 18 and older.

MAD MIXOLOGIST M THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2019

Alison Bailin Batz >> The Entertainer!

imi Jasperson grew up in Chicago and moved to Arizona to attend ASU in 2009. She studied performance choreography and dance, with the hopes of entering the entertainment field after graduation.

During her senior year, she needed a job so she took a position as a cocktail server in Scottsdale. That “part-time job” in 2009 changed her life. We recently sat down with Jasperson to learn more about her journey and the cocktail program at Maya Day + Night Club.

HOW DOES ONE GO FROM CHOREOGRAPHY TO COCKTAIL CURATOR EXTRAORDINAIRE? An efficient bar is not unlike a perfectly choreographed dance, to be honest. There is a beautiful rhythm to it that captured me within my first few months behind the bar. Once there, I quickly fell in love with the combination of art and science that goes into mixology. After getting my feet wet at some smaller venues, I took a position at Dierks

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Bentley’s Whiskey Row in Scottsdale and then made my way to Spellbound Entertainment in 2012. And spellbound, I was! The brand, which oversees Maya Day + Night Club as well as the soon-to-open Maya Clubhouse and a host of other bars and lounges across the Valley, has given me the chance to hone my craft and become a mixology choreographer of sorts, as well as mentor others and flex my creative muscles daily.

TELL US ABOUT THE ODDEST DRINK REQUEST YOU’VE RECEIVED. For those unfamiliar, Maya Day Club is the biggest Vegas-style pool party in Arizona. Then at night, we transform into Maya Night Club, which is a completely different experience that brings top entertainers and today’s hottest DJs from around the country here to the desert. At the Day Club, we once offered a brunch-style endless mimosa special on weekends where folks could get penny refills during the day. Once, a girl enjoyed her mimosas and eventually left. She came back that night for one of our performers and for the nightclub side of the concept — and she proceeded to give me a penny and asked for another mimosa refill. So, while not an odd ingredient, definitely an odd request.

WHAT IS YOUR NO. 1 PET PEEVE WHEN WORKING? You will never see me behind a messy bar. When bars are clean and organized, a bartender can hop on any station and jump into her (or his) job for customers, often without even having to look down because everything is in its place. If it is so messy that I have to look down, there is going to be a problem.

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO DRINK – OR DRINKS — WHEN YOU’RE AT A BAR OTHER THAN YOUR OWN? Bulleit Bourbon or Basil Hayden on the rocks.

CHOSEN COCKTAIL RECIPE: THE JUICY CLAW 1.5 ounces Absolut Strawberry Vodka 3 ounces lemonade 1 can of White Claw Combine vodka and lemonade with ice and shake. Strain into souvenir glass and top with can of White Claw.

WHAT DOES ORDERING A VODKA SODA SAY ABOUT A PERSON? It usually means they haven’t tried White Claw yet. So many of our traditional vodka soda or vodka tonic drinkers have been converted to White Claw Hard Seltzer in recent months that we’ve added all six flavors to our menu.

TELL US MORE ABOUT THIS MENU — AND THE TRANSITION OF MAYA DAY + NIGHT CLUB TO CLUBHOUSE AT MAYA. As I said above, most people know our brand as Maya Day + Night Club. However, this month we are transitioning into what will be our new fall and winter concept. It is called Clubhouse at Maya. The newly recreated space will be open to all ages during the day and 21 and older at night. Think yard games, picnic tables, a four-sided entertainment structure including 24 50-inch TVs and a custom tree house bar. All you need are your flip flops (or boots if it ever cools down!) and a few friends to come enjoy the fun. The cocktail program will feature some of Maya’s all-time classics as well as seasonally inspired options, an impressive portfolio of beer-infused

cocktails and lots of shareable options in oversized and very Instagram-worthy glasses and cups. We are also going to expand our craft beer offerings and are even toying with the idea of keg packages for tables in addition to traditional bottle service.

WHAT IS ONE COCKTAIL FROM THIS MENU YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE WITH READERS? The Juicy Claw ($19)

WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT THIS DRINK? It is equal parts refreshing and fun.

For it, we start with Absolut Juice Strawberry Edition and lemonade. We put that on ice in a souvenir glass and then position a can of White Claw on top. If you choose to add the mango White Claw, you get this amazing tropical flavor combination. If you choose to use raspberry, you get a mixed berry cocktail.

Maya Day + Night Club and Clubhouse at Maya, 7333 E. Indian Plaza, Scottsdale, 480.625.0528, mayaclubaz.com.

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LIFELONG AMBITION

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UPFRONT | CITY | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING

Relentless Beats, developer and mixologist come together for Track Club Kristine Cannon >> The Entertainer!

T

he high-profile team behind Track Club has a vision for the nightclub.

Servers and bartenders donning, head-to-toe, ’70s athletic gear pulled from the racks of Antique Sugar. The white walls inside what was, just one year prior, DeSoto Central Market are accented with artwork created by local artists.

Look up, and local DJs are performing from a custom crow’s nest DJ booth to a lounge swarming with show-goers.

And behind the bar, the bartenders are slinging out craft cocktails in record time.

This is what they — Relentless Beats founder Thomas Turner, Phoenix developer Chuckie Duff and Rattle & Rum founder Damon Scott — envision for the nightclub slated to open this fall

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on the southeast corner of Roosevelt Street and Central Avenue in downtown Phoenix.

“We’re so excited,” Turner says. “This represents a really cool, lifelong ambition for all of us.”

Turner, Duff and Scott all bring their own strengths to the high-top table.

Relentless Beats has seen undeniable success and growth in the state as a leading dance music promoter, attracting artists large and small to the state for pool parties, music festivals and everything in-between.

“We’re going to usher in the best DJs on the planet like a parade,” Turner says.

Duff, the owner of EQ Properties, is known for rehabbing and restoring historic buildings. So far, he owns 17 restored buildings in Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tucson, including Cobra Arcade Bar, Gracie’s Tax Bar and The Rebel Lounge.

Scott is the cocktail connoisseur;

his company has curated high-volume events such as McDowell Mountain Music Festival, Bonnaroo and EDC Las Vegas. And he’ll bring that expertise to Track Club, developing its cocktail program and overseeing bar operations.

“It takes an army to make this work, and Damon brings an expertise that Chuckie and I just don’t at all,” Turner says. “To be able to offer craft cocktails in a nightclub setting and have that be something that we can talk about is not something that’s happening in really any dance club across the country.”

‘CREATIVE CRAFT’ Craft cocktails are a rare sight in nightclubs due to the time they take to make, but not at Track Club, where four different cocktails will be on tap for easy pouring and quick serving.

Track Club will also offer six more cocktails on its menu, including a margarita that will “change color in the glass,” Scott teases.

“We’re being creative, but we’re also very conscious about using great ingredients and good spirits. Everything that’s going to be served has been designed to be able to be made with speed, but it is also made so that you’re going to want two or three of them, not just one,” he says.

Simply put: “He’s going to pour the best cocktails in downtown Phoenix

here,” Thomas says.

FROM COFFEE TO CLUB Duff purchased the 91-year-old DeSoto building in Phoenix in late 2018, and construction began on Track Club in July.

“This building is kind of a centerpiece for the neighborhood, and we were very lucky to be able to acquire it,” Duff says.

“We want to live up to that responsibility because as all these new great bars and restaurants and galleries open around here, we want to create a venue, a nightclub experience that was on par with the new Phoenix that we’re seeing.”

Track Club will include three areas: a 12,000-square-foot lounge and nightclub, a remodeled patio and a restaurant, with the latter two areas launching later this year as part of phase two.

Inside, the nightclub — complete with high-end sound and visuals — will feature a mezzanine; and the lounge will boast a custom crow’s nest DJ booth overlooking the crowd on ground level.

Though the interior is largely remodeled and renovated, Duff says they did save pieces of the coffee bar that was once inside the building when it was DeSoto Central Market.

The aforementioned coffee bar was built from façade pieces of the demolished Industrial Congress

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2019

Building built by the Luhrs family in 1914 and torn down in 2014. The saved pieces will be reused in another project

by Michael Lanier from The Pueblo, according to Duff.

SUPPORTING ARTISTS Track Club will host three to four nights a week of ticketed performances from artists across genres — from hiphop and rock to EDM — and seven nights a week of local DJs. “No one books more local talent, pays more local talent than my company,” Turner assures. “We’re going to open seven nights a week here, we’re going to produce all these shows here and we’re going to need awesome support to play all the hours that those headliners aren’t playing.”

In addition to supporting musical artists, Duff also plans to bring another element of art into the Track Club space — artwork. “(The nightclub) is a canvas for the DJs, but we do plan on featuring local and national artists on the walls of the lounge on a rotating basis — have a gallery feel,” Duff says.

WHY PHOENIX? The idea for the Track Club came from Duff, a downtown Phoenix resident who felt he had nowhere to go to dance and watch a DJ in a nightclub setting in his neighborhood.

“There was not really a place that checked all the boxes for me in Phoenix,” Duff says. “So, I had this idea: We’ve done bars, we’ve done restaurants, let’s try to do a nightclub.”

Duff approached Turner with the idea first.

“I said, ‘Hey, is this something

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Phoenix needs?’ and he said, ‘Absolutely,’” Duff recalls.

Scottsdale has, over time, built a solid EDM crowd and following, with live DJ sets at pool parties, like Release Pool Party at Talking Stick Resort, and in Old Town’s nightclub scene, including Maya Day & Nightclub.

“But nobody’s come in (to Phoenix) and built a nightclub that had all the amenities the EDM crowd would want,” Turner said.“(Track Club is) a first iteration of a club that has all the amenities that one of my consumers expects when they go to the best nightclubs and venues.”

AUTHENTIC ATHLETICWEAR As the name suggests, Track Club will be a place where DJs play tracks, but the name was, first and foremost, inspired by the Valley Metro Light Rail.

Duff also liked the name Track Club because it sounded like an athletic club.

“The vision in my head was, to some degree, that the aesthetic would be influenced by 1980s and 1990s sports apparel,” he says.

When Duff approached his tenant, Antique Sugar, located next door to Cobra Arcade Bar, about the nightclub and aesthetic, the owner suggested they curate a rack’s worth of vintage track and athletic wear for the Track Club employees to wear as their uniform.

“The employees will be able to put their own spin on it, but they’ll have somewhere to go that’ll have legitimate vintage clothing to wear as part of their uniform,” Duff says.

“It’s another local business that we can work with and the uniforms make people feel like they’ve been transported to a different space.”

A DOWNTOWN DESTINATION Turner, Duff and Scott drive home the point that Track Club isn’t just a nightclub; it’s downtown Phoenix’s nightclub and one that will not only support and champion local talent, but will also, they hope, feel like a second home.

“We want people to come here and have a good time and dance and enjoy themselves, even if maybe they haven’t heard of the artists, because they know the music is going to be good and they’re going to be treated well and the people are friendly and the drinks are good,” Duff says.

Scott and Turner emphasize the level of hospitality Track Club will offer once open.

“We want to give them an experience where when they leave and they’ve spent their money with us, it’s a second home to them,” Turner says.

Track Club will open in late September/early October at 915 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, relentlessbeats.com.

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IN CLOSING

FUN » FACTS » LEARN » SHARE » PLAY

Fitz’s Supper Club 2

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Photos by Kimberly Carrillo Larry Fitzgerald hosted his annual Fitz’s Supper Club: Celebrities at Your Service at Dominick’s Steakhouse on August 26. Among his friends on the red carpet were Frank Caliendo, Brie Bella, Nikki Bella, Kyler Murray, David Johnson, Christian Kirk, Chandler Jones, Terrell Suggs, Seth Joyner and Kliff Kingsbury. Our staff photographer Kimberly Carrillo was there and she captured the best of the best.

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1. Budda Baker, Christian Kirk and Larry Fitzgerald get ready for the big event; 2. Courtney Bennett, the Arizona and New Mexico area manager of Tito’s Handmade Vodka; 3. Oliver Badgio and Jeff Mastro prepare for the event; 4. Dr. Matt Overlin and his wife, April, walk the red carpet; 5. Cardinals head coach Kliff Kingsbury made his red-carpet debut; 6. Legendary baseball player George Brett visited Arizona to attend the fundraiser; 7.

NFL veteran Seth Joyner is interviewed by local media; 8. Scottsdale residents Rudy and Sandra Sleiman look forward to seeing who their server will be; 9. Walt and Ruth Brown of Scottsdale get ready for dinner; 10.

Celebrity Fight Night founder Jimmy Walker stopped by.

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