The Entertainer! Magazine - September 2021

PHX METRO » SEPTEMBER 2021

Inside

SERIOUS HORSEPOWER

Natalie Camacho levels the polo playing field

PICTURE

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THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2021

PICTURE

CONTENTS

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20 ON THE COVER

THIS

Valley restaurants worth snapping about

9 LOVE MADE HER DO IT

Music is at the core of Kat Von D’s universe

16

FOSTERING PASSIONS

Nicole Royse wants to share her love of art

on the cover: Model Stefanie DiDonato at Barrio Queen at Tempe Marketplace, photographed by Tim Sealy. Hair and makeup by Ann Hughes of Modern Muse Salon; food and drinks by Barrio Queen head chef Julio Mata. Follow Stefanie DiDonato on Instagram @stefanie_stefano_

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THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2021

HOP RIGHT IN

The Horny Toad celebrates 45 years of food and fun

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

publisher

Steve T. Strickbine

steve@entertainermag.com

Vice President

Michael Hiatt mhiatt@timespublications.com

ExecutiveEditor

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

christina@timespublications.com

Assistant Editor Connor Dziawura

cdziawura@timespublications.com

designer

Shannon Mead

production manager Courtney Oldham

CONTENTS UPFRONT

production@timespublications.com

circulation director Aaron Kolodny

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aaron@entertainermag.com

Top 25 • Clint Black • Kat Von D • Natalie Grancharov Camacho

CITY

writers

Allison Brown, Jill R. Dorson, Alex Gallagher, Sarah Haber, Jordan Houston, Srianthi Perera, Annika Tomlin

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Steve Burton and Bradford Anderson • “Immersive Van Gogh”

TRAVEL

Photographers

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D.H. Lawrence Ranch

ARTS

16

Royse Contemporary • “Hamilton” • Mariachi and Folklorico Festival

DINING

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STRAIGHT TALK

Ice Cube shares secrets behind creativity

The Horny Toad • Instagram-worthy Restaurants • Arizona Restaurant Week • Phoenix Vegan Restaurant Week • Dining Calendar

BEER AND WINE

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25 27

Ice Cube

SPORTS

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MyKayla Skinner • Sports Betting

MUSIC

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Live Music Calendar • Gary Numan • Get the Led Out • Anti-Flag • DED • In This Moment • Chase Bryant • John Waite

IN CLOSING Numbers

ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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The Entertainer! is circulated throughout the Phoenix Metro area, especially concentrated in entertainment districts. ©2020 Affluent Publishing, LLC. A free online subscription is available to all readers simply by going to entertainermag.com/subscribe.

Sedona Winefest • Mad Mixologist

CASINOS

Neil Krug, Joan Marcus, Dennis Murphy, Jeff Ray, Pablo Robles, Tim Sealy, Travis Shinn, Kyle Smith

AGGRESSIVE STANCE

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For calendar and news items, the deadline for submission is the 15th of the month 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

By Connor Dziawura

“The Best of Broadway”

SEPTEMBER 3 TO SEPTEMBER 19 Mesa Encore Theatre will open its 85th season with a production of “The Best of Broadway.” Hosted, directed and choreographed by MET Producing Artistic Director Michael Wallot, who is a Broadway veteran, and musically directed by Jennifer Adams, along with Stage Manager Wendy Thompson, the three-day run features a cast of more than 50 performers, including rotating soloists and MET alumni.

Mesa Arts Center’s Nesbitt/ Elliott Playhouse, 1 E. Main Street, Mesa, 480.644.6500, mesaencoretheatre.com, 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 2:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, $32-$37, or free for children 2 and younger

Experience India

SEPTEMBER 4 TO SEPTEMBER 5 Celebrate the music and culture of India at Musical Instrument Museum. This family-friendly event will feature sitarist Seema Gulati, as well as bharata-nātyam and kathak dance performances, curator talks, music-making workshops and a kartal instrument craft. See website for a schedule of activities.

Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix, 480.478.6000, mim. org, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days, included with paid museum admission or free for members

“The Card Counter”

OPENS SEPTEMBER 10 This latest film from Paul Schrader (the writer-director behind the acclaimed films “First Reformed” and “Mishima: A Life in Four Chapters” and the writer of the Martin Scorsese classics “Taxi Driver” and “Raging Bull”) stars Oscar Isaac, Tye Sheridan, Willem Dafoe, Tiffany Haddish and Joel Michaely. It’s a revenge thriller about an ex-military interrogator turned gambler haunted by the ghosts of his past decisions. Rated R for some disturbing violence, graphic nudity, language and brief sexuality.

In theaters

Slightly Stoopid

SEPTEMBER 10 Reggae/dub group Slightly Stoopid is heading back to the Valley, this time with Fortunate Youth, the Elovaters and Tempe’s Katastro opening. The Elovaters and Katastro recently released

UPFRONT

PHX » CITY » LOCAL » PRIDE » DO » SEE the albums “Castles” and “Sucker,” respectively, while Fortunate Youth is gearing up for “Good Times (Roll On)” in October.

Mesa Amphitheatre, 263 N. Center Street, Mesa, 480.644.2560, mesaamp.com, 4 p.m., $59

“Malignant”

OPENS SEPTEMBER 10 The mastermind behind the “Saw,” “Insidious” and “The Conjuring” franchises is getting back to horror after handling 2018’s “Aquaman.” In this latest film from director James Wan, the movie tells the story of Madison, who is paralyzed by shocking visions of grisly murders, and her torment worsens as she discovers that these waking dreams are in fact terrifying realities. Rated R for strong horror violence and gruesome images, and for language.

In theaters and on HBO Max

My Hope Bag Charity Golf Tournament

SEPTEMBER 10 Get ready to tee up and support an organization with a good cause in the process. This fourperson golf scramble benefits breast cancer support nonprofit My Hope Bag. Admission also includes a continental breakfast, a banquet and awards, and golf goodie bags. The event will also feature a premium raffle drawing and game prizes for golfers.

Papago Golf Course, 5595 E. Karsten Way, Phoenix, 480.987.0204, myhopebag.org, 6 a.m. golfer check-in, 7:30 a.m. shotgun start, $150 per golfer

Pirates Block Party

"The Card Counter"

SEPTEMBER 10 This art walk event has a very special theme — pirates. Dress up and head down to Main Street, between Center and Robson, for more than 60 art booths, live bands, food, gallery openings, a costume contest with prizes, a free trivia contest, $5 fencing lessons, a walk-the-plank event with prizes for kids, and more.

This event is part of Mesa’s monthly Second Friday events.

Historic Downtown Mesa, on Main Street between Center and Robson, 602.318.5689, 2ndfridaynightout.com, 6 to 10 p.m., free

Korn and Staind

SEPTEMBER 13 The nu-metal and alt-metal legends are back on the stage, this time together. Staind recently released “Live: It’s Been Awhile,” and it has plenty of hits from which to draw.

Korn, on the other hand, can draw from 2019’s “The Nothing” and other past hits at the show. Longtime Korn bassist Fieldy may be taking a hiatus, but Suicidal Tendencies’ Ra Díaz is reportedly filling in.

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 2121 N. 83rd Avenue, Phoenix, 602.254.7200, ak-chinpavilion. com, 6:30 p.m., $39.50-$224

DTPHX Lotería

BEGINS SEPTEMBER 15 Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by exploring new places, discovering local businesses and, along the way, appreciating Mexican-inspired art. In what is a sort of art walk meets game, participants can pick up a “tabla” (a colorful card featuring 16 Downtown businesses illustrated by local artists) at a participating business or from a DTPHX ambassador, after which they must match cards to businesses and collect stickers.

Participants who fill their tablas will receive a commemorative prize.

Various locations through October 15, dtphx.org/loteria

Lerner & Loewe’s “Camelot”

OPENS SEPTEMBER 15 Based on T.H. White’s novel, Lerner & Loewe’s “Camelot” heads to the Phoenix Theatre Company in a scaled-down, small-cast format fit for the Mainstage Theatre. It tells the story of a love triangle between King Arthur, Guinevere and Sir Lancelot.

Phoenix Theatre Company’s Mainstage Theatre, 1825 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, 602.254.2151, phoenixtheatre. com, dates and times vary through October 24, see website for prices

“Cry Macho”

OPENS SEPTEMBER 17 Clint Eastwood is back. Known just as much for quickly directing awardwinning films as he is for starring in classic spaghetti Westerns, Eastwood’s latest follows 2019’s “Richard Jewell.” Based on the book of the same name, “Cry Macho” shares the story of a one-time rodeo

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2021

star and washed-up horse breeder who, in 1978, takes a job from an exboss to bring the man’s young son home and away from his alcoholic mom, crossing from Mexico to Texas along the way. Eduardo Minet and Dwight Yoakam co-star. Rated PG-13 for language and thematic elements.

In theaters and on HBO Max

is returning to the Valley for a headlining show at Gila River Arena in support of the album “The Slow Rush.” As a rescheduled tour date, original tickets will still be honored.

Gila River Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Avenue, Glendale, 623.772.3800, gilariverarena. com, 8 p.m., $47.75-$127

Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market

Arizona Cardinals vs.

Minnesota Vikings

SEPTEMBER 17 TO SEPTEMBER 19 The items at this market are anything but junk. In addition to showcasing vintage, local and handmade items by more than 130 curators and artisans from around the country, Junk in the Trunk — now celebrating its 10th anniversary — will feature kids games, food trucks and live music.

WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, junkinthetrunkvintagemarket. com, various times, $8-$40, or free for kids 12 and younger

Peoria Film Festival

SEPTEMBER 17 TO SEPTEMBER 19 After being forced to cancel its 2020 lineup due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Peoria Film Festival, a program of the Phoenix Film Foundation and affiliate of the Phoenix Film Festival, is resuming its plans. This year’s selections are slated to include a dozen features and nine shorts, according to Executive Director Jason Carney. The three-day event will be padded out with Q&As and appearances from filmmakers, plus awards and more.

Harkins Arrowhead 18, 16046 N. Arrowhead Fountains Center Drive, Peoria, 480.513.3195, peoriafilmfest. com, times and prices TBA

After Dark at the Park

SEPTEMBER 18 Seasons are changing, and Heritage Park Zoo is taking advantage of the cooling weather. As the sun sets and the evening begins, adults 21 and older can wander through the park grounds for a variety of music, games, food trucks, animal feedings and keeper talks. An individual ticket with two drinks (beer/wine/soft drinks) costs $35, while a couple’s ticket plus two drinks each costs $50, with proceeds benefiting animals and programs at the zoo.

Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary, 1403 Heritage Park Road, Prescott, 928.778.4242, heritageparkzoo.org, 6 to 9 p.m., $35-$50

Tame Impala

SEPTEMBER 18 With support from Sudan Archives, the Kevin Parker-helmed psychpop and rock outfit Tame Impala

SEPTEMBER 19 It’s that time of year again! The regular football season kicks off this September, and after an away game start against the Tennessee Titans, the Cards will return home to State Farm Stadium to face off against the Minnesota Vikings.

State Farm Stadium, 1 Cardinals Drive, Glendale, 602.379.0101, azcardinals. com, 1:05 p.m., $64-$263

Modest Mouse

SEPTEMBER 19 After a six-year wait, indie rockers Modest Mouse are back with a new album, a bit of a musical change of pace for the longrunning group. And with that album on shelves and streaming services, the band is getting back to touring — with this stop at Arizona Federal Theatre along the way.

Arizona Federal Theatre, 400 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, 602.379.2800, arizonafederaltheatre.com, 7:30 p.m., $39.99-$178.50

Monarch Butterfly Tagging Trip in Southern Arizona

SEPTEMBER 19 This special event for the Got Milkweed? campaign will allow participants to observe monarch butterflies as they migrate to Mexico, while learning how to tag them from Butterfly Wonderland Director of Education Adriane Grimaldi. Pre-registration is required

by September 15, and space is limited. Volunteers will receive directions upon reservation.

Southern Arizona, near Sonoita, roughly three hours south of Scottsdale, 480.800.3000, ext. 204, butterflywonderland. com, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., $20 members, $25 public

Phoenix Mercury vs. Los Angeles Aces

SEPTEMBER 19 Well, the WNBA season is coming to an end, but not before the Phoenix Mercury duke it out on the court against the Los Angeles Aces. Don’t miss out on this special Fan Appreciation Night game.

Footprint Center, formerly known as Phoenix Suns Arena,

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Goldrush Music Festival

201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.252.9622, mercury. wnba.com, noon, $27-$92

Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Los Angeles Dodgers

SEPTEMBER 24 TO SEPTEMBER 26 Beat LA! These three matchups against the Los Angeles Dodgers signify Los D-backs Hispanic Heritage Weekend. Friday night, there will be a postgame firework show with Hispanic music sponsored by Gila River Hotels & Casinos. The first 10,000 fans on Saturday will receive a Los D-backs Snakehead Cap, and the first 1,000 fans on Sunday will receive the Los D-backs Serpientería Game. The weekend is presented

by Michelob Ultra Pure Gold.

Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.462.6500, dbacks.com, 6:40 p.m. September 24, 5:10 p.m. September 25, 1:10 p.m. September 26, $25-$250

Goldrush Music Festival

SEPTEMBER 24 TO SEPTEMBER 26 The annually anticipated EDM festival is returning to Rawhide once again. This time the three-day, multistage lineup features the likes of Diplo, ATLiens, Above & Beyond, Illenium, Kayzo, Cray, Getter, Kill the Noise, NGHTMRE, Zedd, Autograf, and Zeds Dead b2b GRiZ. See website for the massive, full lineup.

Rawhide Western Town, 1500 W. North Loop Road, Chandler, 323.908.0607, goldrushfestaz.com, 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. daily, $99-$999

John Legend

SEPTEMBER 25 After releasing his latest album, “Bigger Love,” last year, famed R&B singer-songwriter John Legend will visit the Valley to showcase his vocal chops. Husband-and-wife soul duo Michael Trotter Jr. and Tanya Blount, known professionally as the War and Treaty (also on the back of a new album), will open the show.

Arizona Federal Theatre, 400 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, 602.379.2800, arizonafederaltheatre.com, 8 p.m., $61.50-$478.50

Rockin’ Taco Street Fest

SEPTEMBER 25 More than 20 local restaurants and food trucks will get together for this celebration of the taco, which is in its 10th year. Additionally, the festival will include live music, eating competitions, a mechanical Rockin’ Taco ride and lucha libre wrestling matches. Food purveyors will include Tapas al Gusto, Los Sombreros and Salsa Bites.

Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 178 E. Commonwealth Avenue, Chandler, rockintacoaz.com, noon to 9 p.m., $12-$20, or free for kids 12 and younger

Tech N9ne

SEPTEMBER 30 Prolific Strange Music legend Tech N9ne returns to Marquee Theatre once again, this time on the heels of his 2020 album “EnterFear.”

Billed as part of the Strange New World 2021 Tour, the show will also feature Rittz, along with special guests King Iso, Maez301 and Jerry Robinson. This show is for concertgoers ages 13 and older.

Marquee Theatre, 730 N. Mill Avenue, Tempe, 480.829.0607, marqueetheatreaz. com, 8 p.m., $40

Great American Seed Up

OCTOBER 1 TO OCTOBER 2 The Great American Seed Up is back! After moving to online opportunities last year, the two-day, sustainability-focused event will resume its in-person plans, alongside a livestream via Facebook. At the event, participants can snag garden variety seeds in bulk via popcorn buckets, resulting in discounted prices (bundles are also available online). Virtual workshops, presentations and a live Q&A are tied in, too. Tickets include access to the event, as well as educational webinars, podcasts and recordings.

North Phoenix Baptist Church, 5757 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, greatamericanseedup.org, 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, October 1, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, October 2, $7.50 ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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

TALKING IN CIRCLES

Clint Black is diving full bore into work

By Dave Gil de Rubio

C

lint Black considers himself lazy.

It’s a rather absurd statement considering what he did during the pandemic. In addition to performing on a regular livestream and launching Clint Black Cowboy Coffee, which is available on his website, he pitched and was cleared to host “Talking in Circles with Clint Black,” a TV show that is a behind-the-scenes conversation with two entertainers talking shop (Travis Tritt and Brad Paisley have already guested).

All this came on top of releasing 2020’s “Out of Sane,” his 13th studio outing. And now with live music venues eager to get back up and running, the Nashville resident is finding the 70 to 90 dates he did between late February and Christmas during a pre-coronavirus year is now packed through Christmas 2021.

Black’s welcoming his return to the road.

“My booking agent, we renamed him rescheduling agent; and he did a great job of keeping things moved up just far enough in front of us so they might happen,” he says.

“Now I’m as busy as I like to be.

I’m streaming stuff, getting a coffee company off the ground and getting ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

a TV show done and then bam! We’re back on the road. That’s how I dealt with the shutdown and then suddenly, we’ve started back up and I still have a TV show and a coffee company.”

Far from complaining, the singersongwriter is diving full bore into the remainder of a year that will find him initially doing nearly a two-hour show dubbed “An Evening With” that will hit fairs, festivals and a few casino dates through the end of October. After a quick break, the New Jersey native regroups with wife Lisa Hartman Black for the “Mostly Hits & The Mrs.” string of dates that will take them through the end of February.

And while he’s on the road, Black will be filling his free time creating stage videos for Hartman Black on his hard drives on the bus and mapping out lighting schemes. Not surprisingly, this nose-to-the-grindstone work ethic meant he spent most of 2019 holed up in his home studio working on “Out of Sane,” squeezing in 18-hour days when he wasn’t on the road playing roughly 70 dates that year.

“I had enough success to sustain me after the major label and also build a studio,” he says.

“I was able to learn more about engineering, and I can record anything I

want without an engineer. I wouldn’t do a session, because I want things to move quickly. I know my studio inside and out, and there is a joy in that. Some people want to be able to take an old Chevy apart and put it back together. I can take my studio apart and put it back together, and that to me is the joy. That’s why the album is titled ‘Out of Sane.’ It starts out with sanity and a mind at work, and it ends up with a mad scientist out of sane just doing the science work. It seemed like a good title, and it fit well into 2020.”

The latest collection of songs finds Black sticking with the tried and true, working with longtime collaborator Hayden Nichols. After opening with the bluesy slow burner “Hell Bent,” Black switches gears into the twangy toe tapper “My Best Thinkin’” and the sentimental “America (Still In Love With You),” both penned with friend and fellow Nashville veteran Steve Wariner. Elsewhere, Black delivers a solid reading of Fred Neil’s “Everybody’s Talkin’” (“It’s still one of the songs I can listen to when I’m overexposed to it and my ears are still happy.”)

And while he’s continued making music and touring, Black has expanded into TV and film roles.

Most recently, he and Hartman Black appeared in last year’s season of

“The Masked Singer” as “Snow Owls,” competing as the series’ first duet competitors while riding in a mobile egg. As difficult an experience as it was, Black was happy coming out of the other end of it.

“It was really challenging in a good way,” he said. “The challenge in a bad way was singing inside that suit. You can’t see — the little lenses you’re looking out of are fogged up after 30 seconds and you’re sweating. If you have to move at all, it’s perilous because it’s inside of that egg. We had inches at a time. But I typically like stuff like that, because I don’t see myself as too precious to step into weird things. I sometimes second-guess myself after getting in it.

I like being a little afraid of things, and I like finding myself in situations where something comes out that otherwise wouldn’t have happened.”

Clint Black WHEN: 7 p.m. Wednesday, October 6 WHERE: Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Avenue, Chandler COST: $48 to $78 INFO: 480.782.2680, chandlercenter.org

LOVE MADE HER DO IT THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2021

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Music is at the core of Kat Von D’s universe

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

K

at Von D has played several roles — tattoo artist, singer, performer, entrepreneur.

Today, she’s playing mom.

Her son with authorartist Rafael Reyes, Leafar Von Drachenberg Reyes, starts pounding at the piano, about which she laughs.

“I’m sorry,” Von D says with a laugh.

Quickly, she speaks to Leafar in Spanish, giggles and returns to the phone with a deep sigh.

Born in Mexico, Von D responses similarly when asked about a certain guest vocalist on her debut album, “Love Made Me Do It.” “Peter Murphy,” she starts about the goth godfather who appears on the song “Protected.” “Just to be in the same sentence as he is amazing, let alone doing a song together. It was a definitely a dream come true. His voice is so epic. It’s even better now.”

“Protected” and “Enough” were the two songs on the record that Von D did not pen, she says. The lyrics and melody on “Protected” were written by Murphy, who was unfamiliar with Von D before the session.

“It wasn’t like he watched my TV

shows,” she adds with a laugh. “He liked my voice. That’s such a huge compliment for me. I love putting his voice against the wave of synth. I’m a fan of analog synth. Peter Murphy fans will be pleasantly surprised by this. It’s not going to sound like Bauhaus or his solo stuff.”

“Protected” is among the songs Von D will perform at The Van Buren on Monday, September 27.

“Every time I come through Phoenix, the energy is great,” she says. “They’re avid fans of music. I’m actually really excited about playing The Van Buren and meeting all the fans. I stalked The Van Buren’s Instagram to look at the stage and wrap my mind around what’s coming.

“I’ve always been a very visual person.

One of my biggest pet peeves at shows are performers who stand at the mic doing nothing. I want to make sure the music is presented in a beautiful way.”

Von D will be joined by a contortionist, Brynn Route, who is “part of the storytelling,” as a few songs were written for her. Visuals were prepared by Linda Strawberry, an American artist, director, editor and musician who works closely with Billy Corgan.

“We have a lot of the same

inspirations,” she says about Corgan, the Smashing Pumpkins’ founder. “We love the beautiful things and the darker side of beauty. I’m excited to put that together for the live shows.”

Music is at the core of Von D’s universe, she says. A classically trained pianist, Von D practiced for two hours a day. She strengthened her voice under the tutelage of Ken Tamplin six days a week.

“The piano is my best friend and most consistent thing in my life — more so than my own family,” she says. “I play almost every single day. When you look back everything I’ve done, it’s all inspired, at its core, by music. I’ve always loved it.”

In 2012, she began writing with Grammy Award-nominated Linda Perry. Following this experience, Von D continued to create on her own and retreated to London in 2014 to record “Love Made Me Do It.” Accompanying her on the album and on tour are Gregg Foreman aka Mr. Pharmacist (synth 1/Cat Power, The Gossip), Sammi Doll (synth 2/IAMX), Dave Parley (drums/Prayers) and Brynn Route (contortionist).

They moved into a bungalow cottage on her property, lived together and finished the record. Dan Haigh of Gunship handled mixing. To shape her songs, she recruited other collaborators like Dave Grohl, Linda Perry, Dave Sitek (TV on the Radio), Danny Lohner (Nine Inch Nails), Ladyhawke and Charo (yes, that Charo).

Music came easy to Von D. “I didn’t feel any challenges with writing,” she says. “I had so much to

write about. I wrote about 22 songs.

There are 12 on it, and the other songs are really cool. I’m entertaining the idea of revisiting them as well.

“I’m already writing album two. Once we get through this tour, I’m going to dive back into production and go on tour again.”

The song writing may have been smooth, but the road to releasing it was bumpy.

“My album has been very long awaited,” she says. “I wrote it 10 years ago. Life got in the way of finishing it — filming a TV show, being on book tours — I was putting it on the back burner.

“I was able to sell my makeup line (to Kendo) a year and a half ago. I said, ‘Let’s make some room for this music and go on tour.’ Then, we were locked down and our worlds were turned upside down.”

When Von D looks back at her career, she says she’s accomplished so much.

She’s learned volumes, in terms of production, and is looking forward to the jaunt.

“I love listening to music, and I love seeing it,” she adds. “I appreciate good production when it comes to stage shows. It’s more than just a live show. It’s an experience.”

Kat Von D w/Prayers WHEN: 8 p.m. Monday, September 27 WHERE: The Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren Street, Phoenix COST: $30 to $35; 13 and older INFO: thevanburenphx.com ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

SERIOUS HORSEPOWER

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

Natalie Camacho levels the polo playing field

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

P

olo and horses have gifted Airpark resident Natalie Grancharov Camacho with the best things in life.

Camacho met her husband, Andres, on the polo field, and she and her family bond over horses.

“I love it,” Camacho says. “I met my husband playing polo. My sister plays polo. My husband’s family plays polo.

For us, it’s a lifestyle. We have horses that are off-the-track racehorses who we rehabbed to teach polo.”

She loves it for its physicality. Like football, hockey and soccer, polo is a contact sport, she says.

“You get to bump a little bit. It is really fun. It’s a total adrenaline rush to full speed gallop on a horse. It’s hard to describe how fun it is,” Camacho says.

Camacho has been with the Arizona Polo Club for 15 years and serves as the player coordinator for the Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships: Presented

by Talking Stick Resort set for Saturday, October 23, at WestWorld of Scottsdale.

Its 10th anniversary event will see polo star Nic Roldan suiting up for the Aspen Valley Club, owned by Marc and Melissa Ganzi. The club will face off against La Mariposa Argentina Polo Team, which is making its event debut.

Among the additional teams scheduled to play in 2021 are Jet Set Women’s All-Star Polo Team, Bogota Polo Team, Arizona Polo Club, Grand Champions Polo Club and Wales Polo Team.

Camacho has missed one Polo Championship at WestWorld. She admires the organizer, Jason Rose, for

bringing the event to Scottsdale.

“When you see clubs that put on a huge polo event and concert, Scottsdale did it first,” she explains. “He has some of the best polo players in the world, and the highest-rated female and male players.

“There are a lot of other amazing things — opera, a senior ladies cheerleading group, and rugby at halftime. The Arabian Horse Association of Arizona is there. There’s an art auction, a dog fashion show and a car show as well. It’s a really well-rounded event. It is like a circus, but not really.”

Rose held the event last year during the pandemic, although it was scaled down. On-site testing was available.

Organizers of the Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships: Presented by Talking Stick Resort begin planning the event 10 months in advance.

“What is surprising is the players love Scottsdale,” Camacho says. “Guys from England have been here multiple times. This is their thing. Pretty famous players love coming back, and they love Scottsdale.

“Women (attendees) love this event, too. Some plan their hats and outfits six months in advance.”

FASCINATED WITH HORSES Born and raised in Silicon Valley, Camacho has been fascinated with horses since she was young. In her hometown, barns were not readily available.

“I just thought they were cool animals, but I love all animals,” she says.

Camacho learned to play polo 20 years ago, when she was attending UC Davis.

“I thought UC Davis’ team looked awesome, so I checked it out. I really liked it. I liked the people and being around horses.”

Camacho connected with polo. She rides six days a week during the season — October to December, and then February to April. Mondays are off days for the horse and riders. Tuesdays to Fridays are reserved for workouts and conditioning. Scrimmages or tournaments are scheduled on Saturdays and Sundays. She often sees people who are addicted like her.

“People come out and take one lesson and they are just hooked. They’re dropping all their money for polo. It’s one horse and then a truck and trailer, and traveling on the weekends. There are people who really love their golf. I really love polo.”

Sir Winston Churchill once said, “A polo handicap is a passport to the world.” That’s been the case for Camacho. Camacho is a 0 goal handicap and has played and watched polo clubs and matches in the United States, Colombia and Europe.

“It’s not as many places as I would like, if I was being honest,” she says.

FRIENDLY COMPETITION Camacho met Andres eight years ago and married seven years ago.

Andres is a fifth-generation polo player, and the sport has been part of his family for more than 100 years. As ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

a young child in Colombia, he and his brother accompanied their father to polo matches at the Polo Club of Bogota on weekends. He continued playing the sport after moving to Arizona in 2010 to pursue his MBA at the Thunderbird School of Global Management.

Polo has kept the Camacho family together.

“My parents love horses,” she says.

“They FaceTime us and ask how the horses are doing. We have 2 acres in Scottsdale with eight horses. We keep them on our property. I’m very thankful for this lifestyle. I’m very thankful for this lifestyle in the heart of the city. I can still have horses in our backyard.”

Andres and Natalie enjoy the friendly competition around the field.

“Polo is a great sport where men and women can compete on the same field,” she says. “It’s one of the few sports that is truly equal. I encourage anyone to come out and take a polo lesson.”

The Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships: Presented

by Talking Stick Resort WHEN: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday, October 23 WHERE: WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road COST: Tickets start at $30 INFO: 480-423-1414, thepoloparty.com, info@thepoloparty.com

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THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2021

CITY

STYLE » ENVY » PASSION » FASHION » BEAUTY » DESIGN

COLD AS ICE These ‘General Hospital’ stars reveal their true personalities

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

T

ouring as “Stone Cold and the Jackal,” Bradford Anderson and Steve Burton know fans sometimes can’t grasp the real-life personalities of the “General Hospital” stars.

On screen, Burton’s character, Jason Morgan, is stoic or “stone cold,” while Anderson’s Damian Spinelli is comedy relief, juxtaposing surfer and web lingo.

The two will share an amalgamation of that when they come to Stand Up Live at 1 p.m. Sunday, September 12.

The 90-minute show is filled with music and comedy based on the “GH” world, including stories; a discussion about their podcast, “That’s Awesome with Steve and Bradford”; an interactive Q&A and “a little bit of everything,” Anderson says.

“The difference between Steve at work and in person is he’s smiling and laughing,” Anderson says. “When we’re on the road, it’s all that. There isn’t a time when we’re doing our YouTube show or a live show when he isn’t smiling or laughing.”

With the “Stone Cold and the Jackal” tours, “GH” fans have learned a bit more about the duo, who are complete opposites on the show. With the expanded reach of their “Stone Cold and the Jackal” YouTube videos, Burton and Anderson’s personality are shining through.

“More people have stumbled onto the ‘Stone Cold and the Jackal,’” Anderson says. “They’re getting to know us in a different way.”

Anderson and Burton toured for 14 years, performing more than 40 sold-out shows. Prior to that, Burton met with fans on his own. Both have seen the stage performance evolve.

“Being on stage more, we’ve become

more comfortable,” Burton says. “We’ve learned how to make things funnier and the timing of things. We’re always working on it, writing new material and seeing if that works.

“We don’t have a place to work out our shows, like comedians. Us working it out is the first time we’re doing it in front of 300 people. We hope it works.

We also use each other as sounding boards. We are constantly trying to improve, and we’re just grateful people are coming out. I’ve said it a million times: ‘General Hospital’ is a huge part of all of our lives. It brings people together.”

Burton wants his fans to know that he’s generally a pretty positive, energetic person who he shares on stage.

“People don’t really understand that,” he says with a laugh. “To go there (playing Jason) is changing my mental space. I have to use little tricks to get me there. I’m not perceived as having a good time on the show.

“It’s my job, and I love doing it. I just go where I have to to play Jason.”

Pre-pandemic, Anderson and Burton regularly held meet and greets. However, with the Delta variant, it’s not possible.

Instead, a Q&A session will be held.

“It’s essentially another hour show,” Anderson says. “People have been responding really well. You get a look at behind the scenes, personal lives.

You never know what’s going to happen during the Q&A. People with VIP tickets get to spend two and a half hours with us.”

Stone Cold and the Jackal Tour WHEN: 1 p.m. Sunday, September 12 WHERE: Stand Up Live, 50 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix COST: $49 and $99 INFO: 480.719.6100, standuplive.com

The Insider’s Guide to Arizona Entertainment

PHX METRO » JANUARY 2020

PHX METRO

2019 » AUGUST PHX METRO

PHX METRO

» FEBRUARY

2019 » MAY

2020

PHX METRO

Harlem Globetrotters bounce into town

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entertainermag.com

Let's Dan

gh goes Derek Hou tour solo on new

MERRILL KELLY

SPOOKY’S SWIRLS

d Handcrafte for meats maketreats delectable

BIG DREAMS

‘Americano!’ is the show of the year

» MARCH

2020

A Inside

Supermode Erin Naas l can't live without her Arabians

‘BONAFIDE’

D-BACKS FAN FEST

SPRING TRAININ NOTH G SCHEDU

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JULIANA HATFIELD

Star

Jammin’ Lee runs for Perreira charity

slides into Chase Field

Dave Kindig is selling his ‘bitchin’ rides’ at Barrett-Jackson

GOOD NEWS LES The Black Moods crack the charts

LA DOLC

The Italian E VITA comes to Festival Phoenix

ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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

TIME TO GOGH

Artist’s works come to life in Scottsdale

By Alex Gallagher

V

incent Van Gogh’s art has been sweeping the nation with its revival in the “Immersive Van Gogh” exhibit, and now fans of his work will be flocking to Scottsdale to see it.

The digitally interactive exhibit — which spans 500,000 cubic feet of projector screens — runs through November 28 at Lighthouse Artspace in Old Town.

“This show is a new way of looking at art,” says Rowan Doyle, “Immersive Van Gogh” creative director.

“On one hand, it is an art exhibit, but that’s only the beginning,” says Corey Ross, president of Lighthouse Productions. “Technically it’s a short animated film.”

The exhibit offers several ways for guests to explore the works of Vincent Van Gogh, the Dutch painter who is best known for paintings like “The Starry Night,” “Sunflowers” and several selfportraits.

“Van Gogh was the high-tech artist of his day,” Ross says. “His inspiration and his ability to capture ‘The Starry Night’ was a technological innovation.”

Beyond his posthumous fame for innovation and creativity as an artist, Van Gogh has gained notoriety for his battle with mental health, which culminated in him dying by suicide.

“I think Van Gogh, as a subject

matter, works well because difficulties he had with depression and isolation have become more relatable,” Ross says. “When you come out into these galleries and realize that he struggled with the same things that many of us have had to in the last year and that the art has transcended the troubles that he had, people were finding that cathartic and inspirational. I think that’s part of why the show has become part of the zeitgeist.”

The last years of Van Gogh’s life have become the most studied time of his life.

Created by videographer Massimiliano Siccardi, the exhibit reflects what may have been flashing through Van Gogh’s mind.

“This is really a film that Massimiliano Siccardi has created, and the way he explains it is he’s trying to capture what might have flashed before Van Gogh’s eyes the moments before he passed away,” Ross says.

The 40-minute film, played on a continuous loop, features visual representations of some of Van Gogh’s most celebrated works — synchronized with music created by composer Luca Longobardi — across walls covered by projection screens that reflect onto the floor of the exhibit, giving viewers an immersive experience.

Beyond the main exhibit, “Immersive Van Gogh” offers other attractions that help understand the artist’s mysterious life. The exhibit has a timeline of the artist’s life and quotes from some of the

800 letters he penned, mostly to his brother, Theo.

Featured are more than 40 paintings and over 400 images that were licensed as part of the exhibit.

“To have a show like this, which is the first thing that many people have experienced coming out of their homes and coming in to see any type of entertainment or exhibit, has been very rewarding for our audiences,” Ross says.

There are several measures in place to encourage social distancing within the exhibit, like circles for people to stand in the main exhibit and timed tickets.

“We give people a time to arrive so we can control the volume of people in the gallery, but we don’t give people a time

to leave, so people will often come in and stay for a couple iterations of it,” Ross said.

“Immersive Van Gogh” is the first exhibit to inhabit Lighthouse Productions, which used to be the office space for corporate tenants like Carvana.

“Lighthouse Artspace Scottsdale is really a new cultural artspace that merges art, technology and immersive world building in a unique entertainment experience,” says Diana Rayzman, “Immersive Van Gogh” co-producer and co-founder of Impact Museums.

Lighthouse Productions will bring more shows to Scottsdale after Immersive Van Gogh closes.

“This is not a touring show. This is a permanent installation here,” Ross says of Lighthouse Artspace. “Our hope is that Massimiliano and other artists will bring us fabulous creations that we can exhibit in the years to come.”

Rayzman hopes the exhibit will boost other artistic sites in Scottsdale.

“After a really difficult year and a half, we are so thrilled to bring thousands of visitors every day to this community and hope that our guests will stay to experience the many things this town has to offer,” she says.

Ross is also excited to see how the exhibit works in Scottsdale and believes it will change the way patrons view art.

“I really think this is the beginning of a whole movement and will be really exciting to see where this goes,” he says.

“Immersive Van Gogh” WHEN: Various hours through Sunday, November 28 WHERE: Lighthouse Artspace, 4301 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale COST: Tickets start at $39.99 INFO: immersivevangogh.com ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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TRAVEL

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

D.H. LAWRENCE’S PRIVATE UTOPIA

On the trail of the British author’s chapter in Taos, New Mexico

By Srianthi Perera

T

he 5-mile unpaved approach to Kiowa Ranch in Taos, New Mexico, off State Road 522, cuts through juniper forest and a visual theater of gorgeous mountain scenery.

When D.H. Lawrence stayed at the 160-acre ranch in the 1920s, the area was surely more remote and inaccessible, because even this rutted road didn’t exist.

But the British author of “Lady Chatterley’s Lover” and “Women in Love” fame apparently didn’t seem to mind the sparseness of humanity and lack of resources. He had his wife, Frieda, and a few other artistic types ensconce him in that personal utopia he sought for much of his 44 years. Taos, 7,000 feet above sea level, heightened his senses.

“I think New Mexico was the greatest experience from the outside world that I have ever had. It certainly changed me forever,” he reportedly said.

Nearly 100 years later, the property is owned and managed by the University of New Mexico; it draws near 60 visitors a week, some of them international Lawrencephiles.

Docent Ricardo Medina is on hand for a personal welcome, with his friendly cat, Honey, by his side. Buddy the dog barks his greetings from his enclosure.

There’s not much to see: just the cabin that Lawrence occupied with Frieda; the smaller dwelling that painter and British aristocrat Dorothy Brett used; one or two grimy outhouses; and a shrine to the author, which supposedly contains his ashes.

But then, imagination takes over.

Press your nose against the window of his cabin (mind the thorny gooseberry bush there) and see Lawrence, bearded

and thin, contemplating his next fictional character and plot twist by the homespun fireplace. Each day, under a huge ponderosa pine outside the cabin, he penned his stories on notebooks; this was his writing studio.

The pine is dubbed The Lawrence Tree, referring to a 1929 painting by artist Georgia O’Keeffe, now at Wadsworth Atheneum in Hartford, Connecticut.

In the summer of 1924, Lawrence wrote the short stories “The Woman Who Rode Away” and “The Princess,” the novella St. Mawr, and the New Mexico sections of a travel book titled “Mornings in Mexico.” In 1925, while recovering from a bout of malaria and afflicted with consumption, the prolific author wrote the biblical play “David” and a collection of essays titled “Reflections on the Death of a Porcupine.”

His work contains themes such as industrialization’s effects on society and reflect on human emotional health, spontaneity, vitality and sexuality. The last quality wasn’t received well by the prudish British authorities, who banned the sensual novel “Lady Chatterley’s Lover” for being “obscene.” The U.S. government also briefly banned him from the country for the same reason.

Besides his renowned penmanship,

Lawrence was also a painter. The art was a racy indulgence into his personal mythology and was banned by Scotland Yard, so he removed them from England.

A restless soul who traveled, he lived in fits and starts in many places.

The coal miner’s son from Eastwood, Nottinghamshire, in England, left for Germany in 1912, eloping after a brief relationship with Frieda Weekley, a married woman and a mother of three.

After a stay in Germany, they walked over the Alps to Italy, lived in various cities, and interspersed their stays with stints in England.

In 1922, he even visited Ceylon on the way to Australia, where he lived briefly in New South Wales and wrote “Kangaroo.”

That same year, he came to New Mexico at the invitation of former New York socialite Mabel Dodge Luhan and settled in Questa, near Taos.

He occupied the three-roomed homesteader cabin at Kiowa Ranch for a total of 11 good-weather months in 1923, 1924 and 1925. During those years, he also lived in Chapala and Oaxaca in Mexico; Spotorno, Italy; England and Europe.

Outside the cabin, The Lawrence Tree grows thick and strong.

The American artist, who made New Mexico her home for more than 40

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2021

years, lay supine on a bench at the pine’s foot to envision her work. The result is a painting of a tree with a perspective like no other: its cinnamon pink trunk reaches with crustacean-like tentacles into a starry, blue night.

Consider Luhan, who wanted to secure as many literati as she could to fall in love with the New Mexico mystique and live here. To that end, Luhan gifted the barebones ranch to Lawrence, who had never owned any property in his life and was uncomfortable with the concept. Instead, she deeded it to Frieda.

Not wanting to be beholden to her, he gifted back his manuscript of “Sons and Lovers.” Not knowing that it was more valuable than the ranch, she exchanged it for psychiatric therapy. The manuscript has a permanent home in the University of California, Berkeley.

It’s time to ascend a little zigzag, hilly pathway to visit the shrine. A colorful story blows in the breeze. It helps to distract because the air is thin, and it’s easy to get breathless.

After tuberculosis claimed Lawrence in Vance, France, in 1930, Frieda buried him there. A few years later, she returned to Taos with her new lover, Italian Angelino Ravagli, and resettled in the area.

However, she doesn’t forget her tumultuous marriage to husband No. 2: They constructed a simple hilltop memorial. Lawrence’s body was exhumed, cremated and brought back

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to Taos.

According to Medina, a hullaballoo ensued between Frieda, Dorothy and Mabel. This isn’t entirely unexpected, as the three women were said to often compete for the author’s attention when he was alive.

“The other two want to spread the ashes all over the ranch, but Frieda says, ‘We’re not spreading the ashes.’ She has a wheelbarrow with wet cement, she dumps him in there and mixes it in.

That’s how the ashes ended up here,” Medina said.

The wet cement was used to make the altar inside the little memorial building, he said. It’s closed, so imagination needs to take reign again.

Just outside is a wooden cross and Frieda’s grave with an ashen tomb containing an enameled photograph of her smiling visage. She died in 1956 in her El Prado, New Mexico, home on her 77th birthday. It was her wish to be buried here.

She was the free spirit that Lawrence wrote about in many of his novels; she didn’t care about convention of the time and didn’t mind “living in sin.”

Everything ties up nicely. Lawrence acolytes are somewhat sated on his chapter on New Mexico.

D.H. Lawrence Ranch Info: dhlawrenceranch.unm.edu ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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ARTS

CULTURE » THEATER » DANCE » GALLERY » DRAMA » VISION

FOSTERING PASSIONS

Nicole Royse wants to share her love of art with gallery

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

A

rt is important to Nicole Royse.

As the owner of Royse Contemporary in Old Town, she works to engage students who stop by her gallery, as well as her three children.

“It’s something my children love, and it’s important for the community, especially with COVID,” she says.

“It brings some hope and light into the world. It reminds us of all the good things going on in the world.”

Royse is preparing to celebrate her gallery’s fourth anniversary on Thursday, September 16, with a small reception.

It is also presenting its “Summer Spectacular,” which highlights a wide variety of mediums, including painting, drawing, mixed media, photography and sculpture.

The artists featured are connected through their original styles, captivating work and stories.

“It is my honor to work with this talented group of artists, focusing on

each artist’s energetic styles, eclectic imagery and brilliant color palettes celebrating our four-year anniversary,” Royse says.

The exhibition features work from James Angel, Angel Cabrales, Charmagne Vasquez Coe, Cam DeCaussin, Gennaro Garcia, Cherie Buck-Hutchison, Peter Brian Klein, Marilyn Szabo, Daniel Shepherd and Casey Wakefield, as well as special guest artists Fausto Fernandez, Fred Tieken and Scott Wolf.

“With such a variety of work, there is something for everyone, and I am truly thrilled to bring such proactive work and a stellar collection with such energy for our four-year anniversary.”

The “Summer Spectacular” is on display through Saturday, October 2.

Royse formerly curated art for the Monorchid and several other Downtown Phoenix galleries.

“I was with Monorchid for almost six years,” she says. “Then gentrification took over. The condos and restaurants came in, and it was less about art.

Scottsdale has always had a very

supportive weekly art walk.

“In Phoenix, art walk is once a month, on First Fridays. It’s not enough time for people to really support the arts. I looked at a lot of different areas for my gallery. It’s been really nice here. We have a weekly art walk. I’m bringing contemporary art to Old Town Scottsdale.”

Royse says she is seeing a slow transition in Scottsdale away from Western art.

“New gallery owners are coming in and different business owners,” she says.

“A lot of young professionals are starting to collect.”

It’s important not to be intimidated by collecting, and to visit art galleries, she says. Royse Contemporary works with local artists with whom she always wanted to work.

“It’s been a fun transition up to Scottsdale,” she says.

Royse did the best she could during the pandemic, which started during her prime season. She pivoted to bringing art to her clients. She curated artwork, loaded her car, hung artwork, helped frame it and “do the whole deal.”

“That’s how I was able to maintain for my artists and space,” she says. “I had private appointments, which were very limited, with clients I knew. I’m already a caregiver, so I was extra careful and cautious.”

A former arts writer and artist, the Chandler resident’s skills are limited to painting walls and finishing projects

with her three children.

Royse was not raised around the arts.

She picked up on it on her own to escape her tumultuous childhood.

“When I decided to go to college, it was something I enjoyed,” says Royse, who studied art history at ASU. “I didn’t want a studio degree. When I finished my degree, contemporary art was buzzing in Downtown Phoenix. I wanted to help artists.

“I’d help them do social media, improve their websites and get more exposure. I continue to do that. It’s just through my gallery space now.”

Also with Royse Contemporary, she invites students to visit her gallery so she can try to keep them interested in art.

Royse hopes they will love art as much as she does.

“A lot of times they pick my brain as they explore the gallery,” she says.

“I had a group from the University of El Paso recently. They were doing a Bisbee residency and they came down to Scottsdale. It was great.

“I like to foster people’s passions.”

Royse Contemporary WHEN: 6 to 9 p.m. Thursdays, noon to 4 p.m. Saturdays WHERE: Marshall Square Complex, 7077 E. Main Street, Suite 6, Scottsdale INFO: 602.810.3449, roysecontemporary.com, appointments available

TAKING ITS SHOT! THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2021

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Patrons will be ‘satisfied’ with ‘Hamilton’

By Annika Tomlin

G

uests can be “in the room where it happens” as the long-awaited ASU Gammage 2021-2022 Broadway Series kicks off with “Hamilton” running from Wednesday, September 8, to Sunday, October 10.

The season was delayed for 18 months, and one of the hardest tasks for ASU Gammage Executive Director Colleen Jennings-Roggensack was deciding what show would start the series.

“That childhood game of hopscotch comes into mind,” Jennings-Roggensack says.

“We’ve been playing a year-and-ahalf game of hopscotch, only instead of on the sidewalk I was playing it with Broadway shows.”

“Come from Away” was supposed to open the series in 2020 but will now show June 14 to June 19, 2022.

“The hardest part (about coming back from a hiatus) is that theaters are living, breathing amazing things and they need people in them to survive and to thrive,” Jennings-Roggensack says. “Not having people in this space, the theater was lonely. We were lonely, and the theater was lonely.”

The Angelica “Hamilton” Company arrived in mid-August for rehearsals.

Among the company is Mesa native Connor Wince, who is a “swing,” or a performer responsible for covering ensemble tracks. Wince says it was “pretty surreal” and “really wonderful” to start the tour in his home state.

“I guess maybe like midsummer when my company had a big Zoom call and they told us that we would be going back to work in Arizona I immediately pulled out my phone and texted my mom,” Wince says. “I think most of all it’s really a big change, too, to be home for the last year and a half, and now to leave again feels pretty jarring.

“But getting to come home to Arizona has been a really lovely way to kind of transition into going back to work and have a nice place to stay while I’m here and some of all those comforts that come with being around family.”

Wince resides with his fiancé in New York, where he auditioned for a role in “Hamilton” a year and a half ago. After his first theater production at age 12, Wince quickly caught the acting bug

Connor Wince

and knew that this was the career path for him.

Wince — who performed in the 2019 ASU Gammage production of “Hello Dolly!” — says the “Hamilton” audition was arduous.

“I would say the most strenuous part of it is that so many of the ensemble people in ‘Hamilton’ have featured parts,” he says. “In my audition, I had to do every single featured part that was in the show to make sure that I could do all of them.”

It was worth it when Wince was hired.

“My fiancé and I had just gone to the gym to work out, and I got a call from my agent,” Wince says. “I just stopped and waited for a quick second, and he told me the good news. I was just crying in the lobby of the gym, but then as soon as I was done with that conversation I turned to my fiancé and said, ‘Well, we’re definitely not working out anymore. Let’s go do something and celebrate.’”

They celebrated by grabbing an early morning coffee and walking by the “Hamilton” theater in New York City.

Wince had not seen the show until the first day of rehearsal.

“I probably should have gotten to see it before, but the first day that I showed up to work I got to sit and watch the show,” says Wince, who enjoys singing “The Room Where It Happened,” “Yorktown” and “Wait for It.”

NEW GAMMAGE PROTOCOLS With COVID-19 still prevalent, ASU Gammage has enforced a slew of protocols to keep theater attendees safe while enjoying the show.

Masks will be required except when eating and drinking. New air filters were installed at the beginning of the

pandemic to help regulate the air, and additional filtration units are in place within smaller confined areas such as dressing rooms and the orchestra pit.

“We will have our handwashing protocols,” Jennings-Roggensack says.

In the security lines, women and men should bring clutches, “not these big fit-for-a-war bag,” she says with a laugh while pointing to her oversized bag. A small clutch purse (maximum 4 1/2 inches by 6 1/2 inches) or larger clear bags (maximum 6 inches by 12 inches) are permitted so it is easier for security.

Curtain call announcements have added a “Mask up, forks up” message.

New signage about COVID-19 protocols is visible throughout the facility. “Playbill” is available through a QR code.

“We will also have signs saying, ‘Welcome to Gammage: Everyone is welcome to Gammage,’” JenningsRoggensack says.

“Traditionally (patrons) could go to stage door and get an autograph. We won’t be doing any of those. We won’t be doing talkbacks. We won’t be doing our cast parties. Anything where there is an overabundance of people in the vicinity we are not doing.”

ASU Gammage will continue to update its COVID-19 protocols as new information and regulations arise. At this time, vaccinations are not required for attendance. Go to asugammage.com to keep up to date.

RETURN TO STAGE

As the new 2021-2022 Broadway Series begins, Jennings-Roggensack reflects on “second responders”— Gammage production employees.

“We’ve had our first responders, and we thank them and we thank our medical and our police,” JenningsRoggensack says. “But as second responders, we are responsible for the spiritual and cultural life of our community and our country and globally.

“We are not saying COVID is just going to go away. We’re learning how to live with COVID, and I think it is going to be a really wonderful, wonderful, wonderful time. I’m going to cry.”

“Hamilton” WHEN: Wednesday, September 8, to Sunday, October 10 WHERE: ASU Gammage, 1200 S. Forest Avenue, Tempe COST: $59 to $349 INFO: asugammage.com ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

AN EXPLOSION OF COLOR

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

Mariachi Festival entertains and educates

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

V

anessa Ramirez calls the upcoming Mariachi and Folklorico Festival an “explosion of color and sound.”

“We have mariachi in the lobby entertaining the guests as they’re coming in,” Ramirez says. “We set up vendors and artisans that promote Mexican culture in the lobby and a special exhibition in the gallery. Then, in the theater, the curtain opens and it’s nonstop entertainment of music and dancers.”

The vibrant event set for 7 p.m.

Saturday, October 2, at the Chandler Center for the Arts, celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month and is presented in partnership with Ramirez’s C.A.L.L.E. de Arizona. The annual event features the music of Mariachi Tesoro de Tucson, Herencia Mexicana, AZ and ranchera and mariachi soloist Sandra Guevara, along with an array of folklorico dancers from Ballet Folklorico Quetzalli-AZ. “We’re excited,” says Ramirez, the executive and artistic director of Ballet Folklorico Quetzalli-AZ. “We did it last year, but it was virtual. It simply wasn’t the same, but we wanted to keep the tradition alive.

“This year, I wanted to focus a lot more on local talent. I wanted to bring

Mexico here because many of us can’t travel. I wanted to make sure it’s a quality show that brings a lot of different types of people. I want it to expand the knowledge of what the Mexican culture is, which is dance and traditions. I wanted to make it fun, entertaining and educational.”

C.A.L.L.E. de Arizona is a nonprofit organization dedicated to nurturing a positive community environment, promoting the beauty of the Mexican/ Hispanic culture, carry on a powerful legacy, instill and teach leadership to youth by setting the example, and above all promote the importance of education,

she said.

The organization was founded as the Chandler Coalition for Civil and Human Rights Inc. in 1997 by Joe Garcia and Eddie Encinas after the Chandler Police Department and Border Patrol “rounded up” undocumented people living in Chandler.

The moves resulted in lawsuits, and once they were settled, the nonprofit looked at ways to show city and state officials that it could be a positive part of the community. Events followed, like the Cinco de Mayo Chihuahua Races and the mariachi festival in Downtown Chandler.

When Garcia and Encinas died, Garcia’s wife handed the reins to Ramirez. She admits it was a little nerve wracking, but she’s excited about her work.

“There’s no way but up,” she says.

“Every year we continue to grow and expand and make it bigger and better.

I don’t have a huge team that works with me. But I’m eternally grateful for the support of the team I do have. It’s awesome teamwork and part of the family as well.”

Mariachi and Folklorico Festival WHEN: 7 p.m. Saturday, October 2 WHERE: Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Avenue COST: $35 to $75 INFO: 480.782.2680, chandlercenter.org ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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DINING

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EAT » EXPERIENCE » INDULGE » SAVOR » DEVOUR » NOSH

HOP RIGHT IN

The Horny Toad celebrates 45 years of food and fun

By Allison Brown

T

he Horny Toad, as quirky as its sounds, has become a staple of Cave Creek since its inception as the oldest original restaurant in town.

Celebrating its 45th anniversary Friday, September 17, to Sunday, September 19, The Horny Toad will offer music, prizes, T-shirt giveaways, and discounts on fried chicken dinners and beer.

Founded by “Crazy” Ed Chilleen in 1976, the eatery is named after the area’s desert-dwelling horned toads. It was then passed on to the Price family, who operated it until Nichole Morris took it over in 2017. While the ownership may have changed, the restaurant remains almost entirely the same.

“We have older people who’ve been coming in here since it opened,” Morris says.

“Some people say they have their birthday dinner here every year. We’ll get people who come in and haven’t been in since they were kids and they used to come in with their grandparents or something. It’s kind of nostalgic for a lot of people. They’ll walk in and say, ‘Oh, my gosh, I can’t believe this is still here,’

or recognize some decoration or picture that’s hanging on the wall.”

Morris says consistency is the secret to its long-standing success. People may come for the silly name or quirky building, but they return for the comfort food.

The Horny Toad is perhaps best known for its fried chicken dinner ($12.99 for a half chicken), which is made from scratch, “plucked and fresh, never frozen,” and broasted in a pressure cooker, according to Morris.

The restaurant has stayed true to its roots, keeping the recipes and even some of the staff since it opened 45 years ago.

“Back then in Cave Creek, there weren’t a lot of restaurants,” Morris says.

“So, it’s had the same name, most of the same menu and the same recipes.

We have one chef still here from 1981, Carmelo. One of the server bartenders, Misty, has been here for over 30 years.

So, it’s got a kooky name, and people like it because it’s a family restaurant and most of the food is made in-house. We don’t have a lot of premade items.

“If you came in and had fried chicken when you were 8 years old, you can have it again when you’re 40,” Morris adds.

Besides its famous fried chicken, other menu favorites include fried cod (16.99),

barbecue ($12.99 to $28.99 depending on menu choice) and strawberry shortcake ($5.99 for half). According to Morris, the restaurant also makes its own barbecue sauce and cooks everything on a mesquite charcoal grill. The flavor has earned it several different awards for its food, sauce and dessert.

The Horny Toad has a line of merchandise with its logo on items like hats, T-shirts and shot glasses.

Customers can also pick up a bottle of Horny Toad’s award-winning hot sauce or barbecue sauce. Another creative move is the Cave Creek Christmas Company store inside the restaurant, the Maricopa County’s only year-round Christmas store. It has everything from

cactus ornaments to ASU nutcrackers.

With desert temperatures, tourists and locals frequent the shop to lift their spirits.

While it’s safe to say The Horny Toad offers a full family-friendly (or pet-friendly, thanks to its outside patio) excursion, it makes sure to cater to the adult crowd. The restaurant has an all-day happy hour for beer Monday to Friday, half-priced wine bottles every Wednesday, and a $15 bucket of five domestic beers Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The Horny Toad is known as Cave Creek’s official Vikings bar, with food and drink specials on game nights. The restaurant boasts two big screens and 11 televisions.

The food, decor and flair aren’t the only things that have remained consistent, though. Morris says The Horny Toad stuck it out and stayed open — even during COVID-19.

“No matter what, The Horny Toad has been open and been there,” Morris says. “We’re only closed two days a year, Thanksgiving and Christmas, and I think things like that make it successful.”

Horny Toad Anniversary Celebration WHEN: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, September 17, and Saturday, September 18; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Sunday, September 19 WHERE: The Horny Toad, 6738 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek INFO: thehornytoad.com ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

PICTURE THIS

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Restaurants worth snapping about

By Jordan Houston

T

he only thing better than enjoying mouth-watering food is indulging in a justas-tasty atmosphere.

With over 1 billion monthly users, it’s no secret that Instagram has taken over the social media industry. The platform has curated a particular niche design trend, characterized by bright “Instagram walls,” patterned restaurant bathrooms, artful lattes and savory avocado toast.

Photos that play into these trends have become so popular that they are almost synonymous with the app itself.

Because restaurants can provide incredibly aesthetically pleasing backdrops for Instagram, here is our roundup of the Valley’s most Instagramworthy eateries, blending photo-worthy spaces with eye-catching menu items.

BARRIO QUEEN 31 S. McClintock Drive, Tempe 480.912.4052 barrioqueen.com Visit one of the Barrio Queen Valley locations to satisfy any cravings for authentic Mexican cuisine in an upbeat, colorful environment.

The restaurant designs are inspired by the Mexican Dia de Los Muertos, also known as the Day of the Dead, according to owner Linda Nash. The festival is November 1 to November 2 and honors the dead with lively celebrations and rituals.

In addition to its family recipes, the restaurant is known for its carefully crafted cocktails and extensive tequila and mezcal menus.

Most Instagrammable backdrop: The Tempe location is known for its display of colorful, hand-painted angel wings

DIEGO POPS 4338 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale 480.970.1007 diegopops.com Inspired by the Yucatan beaches, Diego Pops takes a modern and playful twist on authentic Mexican favorites.

Made from a scratch kitchen, the dishes range from classic and reimagined tacos, Brussels sprout nachos and creative cocktails.

Built into the walls of a historic Southwestern pottery shop, the atmosphere creates a friendly, fun and laidback dining experience that is sure to pass any Instagram test.

Most Instagrammable backdrop: Strike a pose in front of the pink pineapple wall for a vibrant and fresh take on Instagram.

Most Instagrammable menu item: The Sonoran hot dog is an impressive display of a bacon-wrapped, all-beef hot dog with pinto beans, grilled onion, mayo and avocado crema on top of brioche bun.

FARM & CRAFT 4302 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale 480.568.8980 ilovefarmandcraft.com This trendy Old Town Scottsdale restaurant offers organic food in a stylish setting. From health-conscious flatbreads, salads and sandwiches to cold-pressed juice and Kombucha cocktails, the opportunities for Farm & Craft

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Morning Squeeze

that provide just enough space to stand in between for a photo op.

Most Instagrammable menu item: The chiles en nogada, a traditional dish that incorporates the colors of the Mexican flag, is often considered one of Mexico’s most patriotic dishes and is sure to be a smash for any photograph.

Instagram snaps are endless.

The space is modern and spunky, marked by outdoor, black-and-white striped patio umbrellas contrasted with bright yellow chairs and pops of greenery.

Most Instagrammable backdrop: Capture a photo in front of Farm & Craft’s minimalist mural emblazoned with its memorable mantra for a sophisticated look.

Most Instagrammable menu item: The California burger, made with a ground beef patty, melted Havarti, arugula, Sriracha aioli, pickled onions and a flaxseed bun, is almost too stunning to eat.

HASH KITCHEN 4315 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix 602.612.5580 hashkitchen.com With locations in Arcadia, Gainey Ranch, North Scottsdale, Chandler and Peoria, Hash Kitchen is a creative, trendy brunch eatery that will satisfy not only your foodie desires but also your social media needs. The brunch hotspot elevates the dining experience by featuring a day club atmosphere, live weekend DJ music, and Instagramfriendly eats and drinks.

“We played with the social media movement and hashtag world we live in,” Hash Kitchen co-founder and executive chef Joey Maggiore explains. “Every part of our menu, design and atmosphere is all made to create amazing social media moments that live on social media feeds.”

Maggiore is also the head of Hash Kitchen’s equally Instagrammable counterpart, The Sicilian Butcher.

On top of a satisfying environment, Hash Kitchen’s menu boasts eyepopping craft cocktails, like hard seltzers

served in disco balls and Fruity Pebbles vodka cocktails, while its brunch food items include savory huevos ranchero hash, banana fosters pancakes and smoked salmon frittatas.

Most Instagrammable backdrop: Each Hash Kitchen location offers Instagramfriendly walls, including a champagne bottle wall, an LED light wall with the hashtag symbol, and other wall art with accompanying brunch quotes.

Most Instagrammable manu item: Spoil your Instagram feed with photos of the build-your-own bloody mary bar. The interactive setup invites guests to select their vodka and bloody mary flavors, as well as an unlimited amount of its over 60 toppings, such as bacon, meatballs and pickles.

JOJO COFFEEHOUSE 3712 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 110, Scottsdale 480.907.6100 jojocoffeehouse.com Jojo Coffeehouse is a breakfast, brunch and lunch restaurant sharing signature coffee and espresso drinks. But it’s not just any coffee joint. It also serves a selection of craft beers, wine, signature mimosas, sangria and kombucha drinks.

An Instagrammable heaven, the coffeehouse features artsy, rusticfarmhouse décor complemented by fun and trendy food.

Most Instagrammable backdrop: The table below the neon “Good Vibes” sign is perfect for a group photo with friends.

Most Instagrammable menu item: The original coffee flight is a Jojo Coffee specialty made from a proprietary blend that make for a great #SundayFunday post.

LOS SOMBREROS 1976 W. Southern Avenue, Mesa

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2021

480.534.6742 lossombreros.com Established in 1994, Los Sombreros is known for its savory Mexican cuisine and refreshing cocktails. The alluring restaurant, with locations in South Scottsdale, Phoenix and Mesa, breathes life into charming, quaint brick buildings accompanied by spacious patios.

The aesthetic is marked by chic, desert vibes, featuring warm brown tones with pops of turquoise and green, providing blogger-esque boho imagery for Instagram.

Most Instagrammable backdrop: The Mesa location features a trendy Instagram wall with gold cattle skulls speckled across a brown backdrop.

Most Instagrammable menu item: Los Sombreros’ shrimp cocktail will satisfy your taste buds and Instagram cravings, comprised of tomato juice, cucumber, onion, tomatoes and jalapenos served in a chic glass topped with saltine crackers and lime slices.

MORNING SQUEEZE 690 S. Mill Avenue, Suite 110, Tempe 480.264.4688 morningsqueeze.com Since 2013, the locally owned Morning Squeeze has fulfilled all retro lovers’ needs with its ’70s- and ’80s-inspired design and creative menu, featuring a combination of classic diner dishes and modern brunch favorites.

“We are inspired by the funky and groovy times of the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s — whether it be the bright and friendly colors throughout each restaurant, retro photos on the walls or the tunes pumping through the speakers,” says Shea Neill, director of marketing. “All of these details create a happy and easygoing atmosphere for everyone.”

The dog-friendly restaurant is comprised of loud colors, most notably oranges and greens, and funky light fixtures, while its rainbowcolored mimosa flights just beg to be photographed.

Most Instagrammable backdrop: Morning Squeeze’s Tempe location is known for its neon “Lovin’ Touchin’

21

Zinqué

Squeezin’” sign, providing a retro, vintage backdrop to snap photos.

Most Instagrammable menu item: The restaurant’s stuffed French toast is a major hit, Neill says, and changes every month. With seasonal flavors in mind, like apple pie, peanut butter and jelly, maple bar and bacon, the dish is sure to cater to all types of tastes.

PICAZZO’S HEALTHY ITALIAN KITCHEN 884 E. Williams Field Road, Gilbert 480.780.2200 picazzos.com Picazzo’s is a family-owned, healthcentric restaurant. The restaurant takes a “fusion approach” to modern-Italian cuisine, sprinkling in flavors of Asian, Mediterranean and Mexican ingredients.

Designed with Instagram in mind, the space exudes a clean, sleek and cool-toned design with carefully placed light-fixtures guaranteed to bring out your best features in any photo. It also offers calming greenery installations, cozy cream couches and round tables complete with accompanying upholstered dining chairs.

Most Instagrammable menu item: The New York-style “Cheezecake” is a beautiful display of bright, housemade raspberry sauce artistically drizzled over a creamy, white cheesecake with artisan crust and topped with luscious raspberries. The dish provides for a sophisticated and simple filler photo for Picazzo’s Healthy Italian Kitchen

Most Instagrammable backdrop: Pose for an effortlessly chic photo outside of the restaurant’s main entrance underneath the striking, concrete “Where Pizza is Art” sign, decorated with lush green shrubbery and stone benches.

The Sicilian Butcher

any feed.

THE SICILIAN BUTCHER 3151 W. Frye Road, Chandler 480.573.8550 thesicilianbutcher.com The Sicilian Butcher is a neighborhood gem that offers Instagrammable Italian fare like hand-rolled meatballs made daily, from-scratch authentic pasta, and Sicilian-inspired bruschetta and charcuterie boards.

The space is flooded with statement décor pieces that play into the overarching butcher theme, creating the perfect photo backdrop, co-founder and executive chef Joey Maggiore explains.

“You’ll find statement decor pieces that playfully make a nod to the butcher theme,” he shares.

“Like the butcher knife wall, meat hook light fixtures, a charcuterie board wall and a meat locker where charcuterie meat is displayed.”

Most Instagrammable backdrop: The butcher knife wall and charcuterie board

wall create unique and provocative sets for top-notch selfies.

Most Instagrammable menu item: The 5-foot-long charcuterie board, featuring panelli fritters and craft meatballs, is the most Instagrammable menu item, and it is a favorite for every age and everyone at the table.

ZINQUÉ 4712 N. Goldwater Boulevard, Suite 110, Scottsdale 623.745.9616 lezinque.com The French-inspired Zinqué boasts a vast menu with eye-catching breakfast, brunch, lunch dinner and late-night snack items. Located at the Scottsdale Fashion Square, the light, French fare joint offers a globally inspired cocktail and wine program, as well as craft coffee.

Zinqué features a main dining room complete with a wine bar, a semi-private dining and event space, as well as an outdoor patio complete with a 22-yearold oak tree, fireplace and plush lounge seating. Its design is open, airy and angular, with mod tiling, greenery and smooth wooden furniture that is guaranteed to elevate any Instagram profile.

“It’s meant to feel like a chic friend’s home away from home,” co-owner Kristin Dossetti says.

“Zinqué has warm wooden tables, eclectic artwork, a hand-wrought iron storefront, charred cedar and cozy banquettes.”

The spot has even earned the approval of some of Hollywood’s finest, including sightings of Hailey Bieber, Kourtney Kardashian, Joe Jonas, Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid.

Most Instagrammable backdrop: Make sure to stop by and snap a picture in Zinquè’s outdoor area next to the beautiful fireplace.

Most Instagrammable menu item: The charcuterie boards with French cheeses and imported bread from Poilâne Bakery, tartines, whole grilled branzinos and moules frites create a perfectly framed photo.

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CULINARY DIVERSITY

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Arizona Restaurant Week returns with takeout, in-person options

By Connor Dziawura

A

rizona Restaurant Association President and CEO Steve Chucri has seen the broadening of local palates and growth of the food scene firsthand.

“I always had this kind of running joke that I was born and raised here and for me we had two kinds of food — we had Mexican food and then a different type of Mexican food,” says Chucri, an Arizona native. “Now we have all of these culinary options that really, if you look, Arizona — in many ways because so many people are transplants here — is kind of a melting pot, which you see across the country.”

The Arizona Restaurant Association highlights that diversity with its Fall Arizona Restaurant Week, which returns from Friday, September 17, to Sunday, September 26, with a panoply of restaurants showcasing special menus.

As part of the 10-day event, many local restaurants will introduce threecourse prix fixe menus at price points of $33, $44 or $55, the latter a new tier.

Each restaurant’s specifics vary, with some offering individual meals and others crafting selections for couples or groups. Some restaurants may offer wine pairing selections at an additional cost. Standard menus won’t be affected.

“Some of your favorite and most well-known restaurants are on sale here in Arizona for 10 days,” Chucri explains. “And it gives people the opportunity to try a restaurant they may not have tried. It creates this enthusiasm about the culinary opportunities here and throughout the Valley that, you know, is exciting to have happen twice a year.”

Match Market & Bar: Chula smoked salmon chopped salad

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More than 120 restaurants have signed on so far, with the event’s website allowing patrons to search menus by categories such as cuisine type, location and price, even accounting for vegetarian/gluten-free options and takeout. Cuisine ranges from pizza or sushi to Mexican food, American favorites and steak/seafood restaurants.

“Arizona is becoming more and more of a foodie-type place and venue, and I think what the restaurant week does is try to trumpet that to our guests and patrons around the state,” Chucri says.

Since it was founded 14 years ago, Arizona Restaurant Week has grown

Kona Grill: Cilantro lime grilled chicken

Marcellino: Mozzarella and prosciutto

from a once-yearly event every fall to a biannual event also hosted in the spring, increasing along the way from roughly two dozen restaurants in its first year to now well over 100 per event.

New this year, the Arizona Restaurant Association is raising funds for the HonorHealth Desert Mission endowment to support those who are underprivileged, experiencing homelessness or affected by the pandemic.

Billed as the “Dine In. Help Out.” program, Arizona Restaurant Week is accepting donations through its website and QR codes provided with bills at participating restaurants. Funds will benefit Desert Mission programs and

services, such as its food bank, early childhood learning center and adult day program.

“It’s a really unique event that diners have just come to love, and that’s what makes it worthwhile for us,” Chucri explains of the growth of Arizona Restaurant Week.

Due to the pandemic, Chucri acknowledges that the Arizona Restaurant Association was forced to quickly adapt. Moving to takeout options last year is one such way, though the event is now allowing in-person and takeout options.

“Restaurateurs, fortunately we’re getting back into our regular cycle, which is a good thing,” Chucri notes.

“People have missed restaurants, which we’ll always be grateful for, and so we have seen our places fill up quite more than we expected them to.

“And so, you know, we’re still trying to help people — those who still aren’t comfortable to go into a restaurant — to still be able to take out, but at the same time, I think we’ll probably, come next year, we’ll likely just go back to our original platform, which is just dine in the restaurant.”

But first, Chucri has high hopes for this year’s fall event. He recommends people plan ahead and seek out reservations when possible, as demand tends to increase with restaurant week.

“The Spring Restaurant Week went well, actually,” he recalls. “We had a great turnout. … And so we’re optimistic. I mean, we’re getting more and more restaurants every day participating, and I anticipate that to continue.”

Arizona Restaurant Week arizonarestaurantweek.com

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THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2021

2022 TICKET PLANS THE ULTIMATE ON SALE NOW The Vegan Taste: The Bratweiler

EXPERIENCE

New restaurant celebration is not just for vegans

By Sarah Haber

F

or the past few years, chef Jason Wyrick of The Vegan Taste and Glendale’s Casa Tera had been wanting to create an experience that showcases vegan cuisine.

When Jozh Watson of Phoenix Vegan suggested they partner to cultivate the ultimate vegan experience in Phoenix, Wyrick knew he could not pass up the opportunity.

“For me, food is about community and bringing people together. Vegan Restaurant Week makes us celebrate the opportunity to do that,” Wyrick says.

From Sunday, September 12, to Saturday, September 18, a multitude of Phoenix restaurants, bakeries and food trucks are banding together to create pre-fixe plant-based menus during Phoenix Vegan Restaurant Week.

Each dining institution will offer its own specialized three- or five-course meal that will continue throughout the week. Wyrick says this experience will allow customers to enjoy plant-based cooking at a fair price.

At first glance, one may think that this week is entirely catered toward the vegan community, when in fact it is the opposite.

“This week serves a couple different purposes. Nonvegan diners can experience new food,” Wyrick says. “For vegan diners, there are a lot of nonvegan restaurants putting out vegan options.

We can expose vegan diners to different restaurants as well as nonvegans to vegan foods.”

For many, the ideation of veganism may come across as intimidating or even bland. Wyrick hopes Vegan Restaurant Week will expose vegan cuisine and

give restaurantgoers the “push” to step outside of their comfort zones.

Wyrick, a plant-based cooking expert, understands the stigma around veganism and hopes to rewrite that narrative. His journey began when he lost more than 100 pounds, defeating diabetes, when he switched to plant-based cooking. In the process, he noticed there were limited vegan recipes that tasted good and were easy to make. Wyrick then taught himself to cook and found that vegan cuisine is handled with more care. Thus, he created his service, The Vegan Taste.

“If you can make hummus out of a blender, you can make 50 different dishes,” Wyrick says.

Over the years, he has mastered his craft and has noticed that his peers have followed suit. Wyrick explains that food in the Valley is elevating every day and “plant-based is at the forefront.”

In September, attendees can expect a plethora of creative flavorful dishes at a fair price destined to open their mind to a different dining experience.

Wyrick recommends that people come with an open mind and enjoy themselves. After being apart for so long, this week is a chance to bring people together under the best circumstance: food.

“This is just great food,” he says. “We want you to come. Come celebrate food,” he adds.

Phoenix Vegan Restaurant Week WHEN: Sunday, September 12, to Saturday, September 18 WHERE: Various locations throughout the Valley COST: Various INFO: phoenixvegan.com/phxvrw

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CALL OR TEXT 602.462.4600 dbacks.com

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DINING

CALENDAR

By Annika Tomlin

Literary Tea at Drink Me! Tea Room: Peter Pan

SEPTEMBER 3 TO SEPTEMBER 5 Neverland comes alive as the Peter Pan-inspired afternoon tea menu is severed at Drink Me! Tea Room.

Patrons’ tea dreams will come true as they enjoy seasonal tea with plant-based and gluten-free savories and sweets. Enjoy all the happy things from this fairytale literature with an enchanting afternoon at Drink Me! Tea Room.

Reservations are required.

Drink Me! Tea Room, 1730 E. Warner Road, Suite 5, Tempe, drinkmetearoom. com, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., $33

The Versus Series at ZuZu

SEPTEMBER 9 Beer and wine battle it out at the Versus Series with a savory fourcourse meal at ZuZu. Duking it out is Four Peaks Brewing Co. and The Prisoner Wine Co. that will include one wine and one beer to accompany each course.

The special menu is crafted by executive chef Russell LaCasce to perfectly pair with each pour. Find a favorite while dining? Take home the choice home by the bottle of case. Reservations are required.

ZuZu at Hotel Valley Ho, 6850 E. Main Street, Scottsdale, 480.421.7997, hotelvalleyho.com, 6 p.m., $129 plus tax and gratuity

Phoenix Vegan Restaurant Week

SEPTEMBER 12 TO SEPTEMBER 18 The inaugural Phoenix Vegan Restaurant showcases several vegan dining options beyond the fullservice restaurants, including food trucks and meal delivery services along with small grab-and-go spots such as bakeries. Breakfast, lunch and dinner menus are available at a plethora of locations, like Early Bird Vegan, Positively Frosted, Trash Panda Vegan, Beaut Burger and Earth Plant-Based.

Various locations, phoenixvegan.com, various dining times, $20-$33

Arizona Restaurant Week

SEPTEMBER 17 TO SEPTEMBER 26 For the 14th year, the Arizona Restaurant Association is presenting the Fall Arizona Restaurant Week, dine in or takeout. This 10-day dining extravaganza highlights Arizona’s culinary talents at more than 100 participating restaurants.

Each restaurant features a threecourse prix fixe menu at one of the three price points available for dine-in or takeout. Participating restaurants include ZuZu at Hotel Valley Ho, The Barking Bodega, Pasta Brioni, Fuego at The Clarendon, and Arrowhead Grill.

Various locations, arizonarestaurantweek.com, various dining times, $33-$55

Blue Clover Distillery: Pepper vodka

National Pepperoni Pizza Day SEPTEMBER 20 Rosati’s Pizza Chandler serves deep-dish, thin-crust, doubledough and gluten-free pizzas. To celebrate National Pepperoni Pizza Day, it will offer a buy-one, get-one jumbo of its perfected pepperoni slice while dining in. The Italian Daughter in North Scottsdale will dish stone-fired, Neapolitan-style pizza. Get a classic pepperoni pizza or try the Tre Carne with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese with house sausage, pepperoni and sopressata topped with red onion.

Rosati’s Pizza Chandler, 1050 E. Ray Road, Chandler, myrosatis. com/chandlerray; The Italian Daughter, 23655 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 120, Scottsdale, theitaliandaughter.com; various dining times and pricing

Craftsman Cocktails + Kitchen Wine Dinner

SEPTEMBER 23 Craftsman Cocktails and Kitchen will partner with Hedges Family Estate from Washington State to host a five-course wine dinner. Dining courses include goat cheese, gougere, seared diver scallops, tart cherry risotto, lamb osso buco and seared lamb chop. It wraps up with warm berries and black pepper zabaglione.

Each course is paired with a wine from the Hedges Family Estate.

The Craftsman, 20469 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale, thecraftsmanaz.com, 6 p.m., $125

Hatch Green Chile Roast

Earth: Plant-based chicken and waffles

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SEPTEMBER 24 TO SEPTEMBER 25 Hatch green chiles come straight from the chile capital of the world, Hatch Valley, New Mexico, to Blue Clover Distillery. The Scottsdale spot roasts a yearlong supply of chiles while featuring them in an all-day dedicated menu. Feast on each menu item, including Hatch green chiles from pork stew ($5), shredded pork tacos, (two tacos/$8) and burgers ($10) to cheese fries

($8) and spicy bloody marys made with Blue Clover’s Hatch green chile-infused vodka. Guests can also purchase a 5-pound bag of roasted chiles on the patio for $10.

Blue Clover Distillery, 7042 E. Indian School Road, Scottsdale, bluecloverdistillery. com, 1 to 7 p.m., $5-$10

Hatch Green Chile Cocktail Competition

SEPTEMBER 25 For the first time, the Hatch Green Chile Cocktail Competition will bring the heat to Blue Clover Distillery as bartenders from across the Valley, including The Italian Daughter, Tucked Away Craft Kitchen & Bar and The Kaz Bar, will compete to see who can create the best cocktail using Blue Clover’s Hatch green chile vodka.

Judges will name their favorite, while guests will pick another.

Tickets include four craft cocktails to sample during the competition.

Blue Clover Distillery, 7042 E. Indian School Road, Scottsdale, bluecloverdistillery. com, 1 to 4 p.m., $20

Follow the Fork

OCTOBER 2 Park West and Peoria Education Foundation team to offer a fun way for West Valley residents to enjoy the new restaurant mix, along with live music, interactive art and photo opportunities to raise funds for the nonprofit.

Participating restaurants include BJ’s Steakhouse, Kasai, The Sicilian Butcher, Yama Sushi, Grimaldi’s Coal Brick-Oven Pizzeria and Olive Gourmet. VIP tickets include an exclusive “midnight snack” swag bag with cookie samples, beverages, tastings at participating restaurants and other VIP specials. General admission tickets include tastings and the midnight snack bag.

Park West, 9744 W. Northern Avenue, Peoria, shopparkwest. com, 6 to 8 p.m., $25-$50

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2021

BEER AND WINE

25

SIP » BREW » RELAX » EXPERIMENT » REFRESH » TOAST

WINE ABOUT IT

Sedona party is ‘a pretty darn big deal’

By Annika Tomlin

A

s the list of Arizona wineries continues to grow every year, the Sedona Winefest is the ideal setting for them to show off what they have.

On Saturday, September 25, and Sunday, September 26, oenophiliacs can imbibe in 29 local wines at Posse Grounds Park.

“The thing about the Sedona Winefest is that you don’t have to be a member of the organization to do the event, so we encourage new wineries to join,” says Paula Woolsey, vice president of Sedona Winefest.

This 12th year sees eight new brands to the lineup. Six of them recently graduated from the Southwest Wine Center wine program and subsequently created their own wineries.

Wineries include Da Vines Vineyard, Burning Tree Cellars, Su Vino Winery, Carlson Creek and The Oddity Wine Collective. Tickets to the Sedona Winefest include six wine tastings from the array of wineries.

In addition, the winefest includes

attractions such as the Plein Air Artist Demonstration, during which local artists paint the Sedona landscape from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. Sunday, the Phoenix band the Sugar Thieves will perform at 1:30 p.m.

“They are a great band, and this will be the first time that they have played at the Sedona Winefest,” Woolsey says.

Outside of the musical entertainment, a plethora of vendors will be in attendance.

“We’ve got the same cohort of vendors, with a couple new ones this year,” Woolsey says.

Participating vendors include Starbites Coffee Café, Virgin Cheese, Poof Itza Gift, Henna By Bri, Sedona Divine, Cutco Events , Maribel’s Custom Cakes and Merkin Vineyards Gelato Truck, not to mention Peace Love and Smoked Cheese, The Funky Pita, Oak Creek Apple Company, Jennifer Defoe, Carol’s Delectables, Eagle Eye Barrels, Malta Joe’s Baked Goods and AZ Uncorked.

A Sedona Winefest staple is the raffle, but this year, it’s not happening.

“We’re going to be doing a wine pull instead of a raffle this year, which will be better in terms of social distancing and

all of the precautions,” Woolsey says.

“For $20, you get your wine pull and people get to come up, the wines are put in paper bags so you can’t see the wine, and (you grab a bottle).

“The wines are from all of the wineries there as well as wines that were dug deep out of people’s wine cellars. It’s guaranteed to make a good purchase because all of the bottles are worth at least $20, so nobody is going to get burned out.”

The money goes to the Verde Valley Wine Consortium, which supports the Verde Valley wineries.

The majority of the events will be held outside of a 14,000-square-foot tent so guests can maintain social distancing.

“We just want people to stay home if they are sick and use their good sense with coming to a big event like this during this sort of sketchy pandemic time. That’s really important,” Woolsey says.

Prior to the festival, Sound Bites Grill is hosting a kickoff party with a raffle and wine tastings. It will feature three Arizona wineries’ tasting tables, gourmet food stations, entertainment by Mother Road Trio and a photo booth. Proceeds

for this event go to the Verde Valley Wine Consortium.

Tickets include a commemorative Verde Valley Wine Consortium glass and one raffle ticket entry. Featured raffle prizes are a bottle of wine from each winery, a two-night stay at a local resort, free wine tasting at Art of Wine for two, and Jeep or helicopter tour.

“What makes (Sedona Winefest) different is that we get people from all over the country and outside of it because Sedona is a pretty darn big deal,” Woolsey says.

“We have a really good audience who wants to learn about Arizona wines, and it makes this a fabulous platform for wineries. Rarely are you going to get 29 of them in the same place.”

Sedona Winefest Kickoff Party WHEN: 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, September 24 WHERE: Sound Bites Grill, 101 N. State Route 89A, Sedona COST: $125 INFO: soundbitesgrill.com Sedona Winefest WHEN: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, September 25, and Sunday, September 26 WHERE: Posse Grounds Park, 525 Posse Ground Road, Sedona COST: $35 in advance, $40 at the door INFO: sedonawinefest.com ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

MAD MIXOLOGIST S 26

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

By Annika Tomlin

ince Matt Allen was a teenager, he “never really done anything else” outside of the restaurant industry. Over the years he honed his skills and now spearheads the cocktail program at The Sicilian Butcher.

We recently had the chance to chat with Allen and learn about his backstory.

He’ll also share what is special about The Sicilian Butcher’s cocktail program and the cocktail he would like to feature.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR CAREER IN THE BAR INDUSTRY AND HOW IT LED YOU TO THE SICILIAN BUTCHER. I have been in the restaurant industry since I was 16 — kind of here and there.

I spent the majority of my career in management and then I was a general manager for a while and decided I just wanted to go some more fun. Once my wife got a good enough job that I could take a step backward and go to bartending, I did. I ended up making more money than I did as a manager, so that was nice. I bartended for a few years at the Westin Kierland Resort here in North Scottsdale. Eventually, I kind of pitched myself to take over and develop their cocktail program as a whole, and that kind of put me on the map as a “mixologist.” I’ve been around the Valley for a bit — down in Chandler, the Brickyard and Hidden House. Then I was on my way up to the Maggiore Group.

WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION BEHIND THE COCKTAIL PROGRAM AT THE SICILIAN BUTCHER? Specifically with The Sicilian Butcher, the central concept is that it is Italian-Sicilian. Everything I have done maintains high standards that we have for the food in our Italian-themed restaurants. Even if I have a drink with,

AMALFI SPRITZ 2 ounces prosecco 1 ounce Fiorente Elderflower Liqueur 1/2 ounce Rothman and Winter Orchard Pear Liqueur 1/2 ounce Combier Bleu Curacao 3 ounces Fever Tree Mediterranean Tonic Water Fill a large wine glass with ice Pour prosecco over the ice Add Fiorente Elderflower Liqueur, Rothman and Winter Orchard Pear Liqueur and Combier Bleu Curacao, then top with 3 oz. Fever Tree Mediterranean Tonic Water Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and half an orange wheel

ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

say, bourbon in it, it has some Italian twist to it. Everything has got at least one Italian ingredient, if not multiple.

Some are variations on classic Italian drinks; some are completely new and with just an Italian twist to them. I’ve tried to develop everything to be very food friendly, because that is first and foremost the reason that people come here, to eat our great food.

WHILE A BARTENDER, WHAT WAS THE ODDEST INGREDIENT YOU EVER USED IN A COCKTAIL? I would say duck fat. I did a lot of experimentation, and a few years back I was able to get my hands on a bunch of duck fat, and so I used that for a duck fat washed cognac to make a very cool variation of a vieux carré for an event.

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY WORKING BEHIND A BAR? I’m not really sure. I just know that there have been a lot of great times working with great people. You meet the whole array of great clientele. Customers, whether they are in for the first time or whether they know exactly what they want or whether they are just looking for an experience. That is probably the most fun, is when somebody just wants to check out everything that you have to offer and they’ll let you kind of run the show for them. Nothing specific, unfortunately. I have a lot of bad memories.

WHAT IS ONE OF YOUR WORST MEMORIES WORKING BEHIND THE BAR? A couple of guests broke out into a fight, like an actual brawl, right in front of me at a restaurant that shouldn’t have had that kind of event happen. It was a bit strange. I didn’t really know how to react to that one except for, like, “Help!

Somebody stop this! Oh, right, me. I should be the one stopping that.” As my

friend used to say, “I need a grown-up.”

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE DRINK WHEN YOU ARE NOT WORKING? It depends on where I am. People ask me quite often when I’m at the bar, saying, “You must go home and make some amazing drinks for yourself. What do you like to drink? What do you make at home?” I hold up an empty glass and I hold up a bottle of bourbon and I say, “Glass. Bottle. Pour. The end.”

No gourmet chef wants to go home and cook for himself after a long day.

It’s the same thing with bartenders. If I am out and about and if someplace has a good cocktail menu, I don’t have any spirits that I am averse to. I will happily try things that look interesting, and if I love the place I will go right down the list and see what they have to offer. If it’s a place that doesn’t have a menu or it seems a little more dive bar-esque, then it’s just a safe bet to go for beer. Beer and bourbon. Buffalo Trace is my go-to bourbon; I usually polish off a bottle of that every week or two. And beer I go back and forth between Blue Moon and 805. I’m not one of those big IPA guys, which is ironic because I love bitter but I don’t like IPAs. Something light and easy drinking is good for me.

WHAT’S THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE FOR SOMEONE LOOKING TO GET INTO THE INDUSTRY? I think that this is one of those business industries where it is not something that can be 100% taught by other people. It’s not an on-the-job learning. You have to come in with some knowledge. You have to make the effort to kind of learn on your own. Some of the best bartenders/mixologists who

I have known are kind of self-taught, or at least that is how they got started and then they were able to pair up with other people — myself included. To get into this business, start reading, start educating yourself so when you walk into a place, you can exhibit yourself as a professional and not a rookie just waiting for somebody to teach them what to do.

WHAT DOES ORDERING A VODKA TONIC SAY ABOUT A PERSON? I would say it’s safe, I guess. I like it better than the vodka soda, which is a very flavorless drink, all in all. At least with the tonic you have some sort of element with bitterness and some citrus going on there.

But if that is somebody’s go-to drink, then that is great. It’s what they know. If that’s what they enjoy, there is no fault in that. I always joke that if you have regulars, they are not predictable — they are reliable. You know what they are going to drink. There’s nothing wrong with that drink. I would personally want something with a little bit more flavor, but you can’t fault people for liking what they like.

WHAT COCKTAIL WOULD YOU LIKE US TO FEATURE? Amalfi Spritz, $12

WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT THIS DRINK? It’s a great summertime drink. It’s light, a little fruity. It’s got those effervescence bubbles. There are a couple of Italian tie in twists to the drink. We have an Italian prosecco, an Italian elderflower liqueur.

Bleu Curacao just to give it a little bit of orange flavor and this bright copper blue color of the drink — that visually appealing sense. Then it is balanced out with a little bit of pear liqueur and dry vermouth and topped off with tonic.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2021

CASINOS

27

PLAY » SPIN » LAUGH » GROOVE » UNWIND » WIN

STRAIGHT TALK

Ice Cube shares secrets behind creativity

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

F

or iconic rapper Ice Cube, music and film are extensions of each other.

“I look at ‘It Was a Good Day’ as a song version of a movie like ‘Friday,’” he says. “‘Friday’ is the extended version of ‘It Was a Good Day,’ with a crazy twist put on it. It’s cool to be able to jump in and out of these different creative spaces to show people what you got.”

Ice Cube has two Arizona shows coming up: Saturday, September 11, at Casino Del Sol in Tucson; and Friday, December 3, as part of the 101.1 Bounce Holiday Jam with Too Short, Warren G, Baby Bash, The Luniz and J.J. Fad at the Footprint Center.

He recently returned to the stage after a pandemic-forced hiatus. Ice Cube said it was nearly heartbreaking.

“I’ve been on stage every year since I was 16 or 17 years old,” he says. “To have it taken away and then to jump back on it, you realize how much you appreciate it. It’s a fun part of the industry.

“I felt like I was on a merry-goround. I’m doing the same thing year

after year, between movies, music and shows, all the stuff you do until it’s taken away. I couldn’t wait to get back.

I’m rejuvenated. I appreciate it, and I’m giving it 110%.”

Growing up in crime- and ganginfested South Central Los Angeles in the 1970s and ’80s, Ice Cube toed the line between right and wrong. However, his comedic chops are evident even in difficult situations.

After penning the memorable lyrics on N.W.A.’s groundbreaking songs “Straight Outta Compton” and “F Tha Police,” Ice Cube left the group at its peak due to payment issues. That didn’t stop Ice Cube’s success. He recently released his 18th album as a solo artist or group member, “Everythang’s Corrupt.”

He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2016, and as a solo recording artist he has sold more than 10 million albums.

Outside of music, Ice Cube has been honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2017. In film, he produced the “Friday,” “Ride Along,” “Barbershop” and “Are We There Yet?” franchises as well as the awardwinning N.W.A. biopic “Straight Outta Compton.” He is an acclaimed writer (“Friday,” “The Players Club”) and director (“The Players Club”).

His acting chops were honed in films like “Friday,” “Barbershop,” and “Ride Along,” as well as the “21 Jump Street”

series. He played a conflicted teen in “Boyz N The Hood”; a soldier in “Three Kings,” which was filmed in Arizona; and a government agent in “xXx: State of the Union.”

The concerts will feature a sampling of tracks from Ice Cube’s catalog.

“I like to give people the whole catalog, if I can — from ‘Straight Outta Compton’ to ‘Everythang’s Corrupt,’” he says. “I just give people a taste of my whole career.

“It’s kind of to celebrate the different phases of my music. From the politically charged to the straight street, West Coast culture, to the club-banging party jams, they get it all.”

A member of Mt. Westmore with Snoop Dogg, Too $hort and E-40, Ice Cube will be accompanied by his longtime cohort, WC of Westside Connection.

“Westside Connection forever,” he says. “We have a couple West Side Connection songs in the set. I just think you get everything you want from an Ice Cube concert.”

Lately, Ice Cube has been focusing on the fourth year of Big3, a 3-on-3 professional basketball league, which he founded with entertainment executive Jeff Kwatinetz. The league has 12 teams with former NBA players and international players.

“The Big3 is the hardest thing I’ve ever done in entertainment,” he says.

“Rap was already there when I got into it. Movies were already there when I got into them. Basketball courts were

already there, but not 3 on 3.

“It was never elevated to a professional level. That was the hardest part — convincing people that this is a sport that could work as a professional sport, not just an amateur backyard playground thing. It wasn’t easy to get it to this point. It’s starting to get a lot of respect in the sports world and fans.”

All his projects, he says, are ways to disperse his creative energy.

“I move my energy in the directions where I feel it will be the most effective,” he says. “When I feel like it’s going to be a visual thing, it’ll be a motion picture.

Is it enough material to do a movie or is it a quick hit, like a movie? It’s all pretty cool.”

Ice Cube WHEN: 8 p.m. Saturday, September 11 WHERE: AVA Amphitheater at Casino Del Sol 5655 W. Valencia Road, Tucson COST: $35 INFO: casinodelsol.com 101.1 The Bounce’s Holiday Jam w/Ice Cube, Too Short, Warren G, Baby Bash, The Luniz and J.J. Fad WHEN: 8 p.m. Friday, December 3 WHERE: The Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix COST: $45 INFO: 602.379.2000, footprintcenter.com ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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SPORTS

CHEER » HIT » HIKE » LEAD » ROOT » COMPETE

FLIPPING FOR GILBERT

MyKayla Skinner misses her hometown already

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

G

ymnast MyKayla Skinner’s career highlights read like a champion.

The 2020 Olympic vault silver medalist, the 2021 U.S. vault silver medalist and 2019 U.S. vault bronze medalist, among other accomplishments.

But right now, the Gilbert resident is craving Gecko Grill — especially while stressed out from moving to Utah, where she and her husband attend college.

“We’ve been unpacking this week,” says Skinner, a 2015 Higley High School graduate.

“Since the Olympics, I haven’t had a second to come down. We’re getting all new furniture. I’m missing Arizona and Gecko Grill already. I’m so sad I had to leave, but I’m so excited for this next chapter.”

Part of her future is participating in the Athleta Presents Gold Over America Tour with Skinner and fellow Arizonan Jade Carey, along with the likes of Jordan Chiles and Grace McCallum.

The tour flips into Gila River Arena on

Wednesday, September 22.

“I’m so excited,” Skinner says. “I was on tour last time in 2016 for the Kellogg’s tour. Being back in my hometown was the most exciting time.

All my friends and family were there to watch us. I’m super stoked and ready for an amazing show.”

Skinner first hit the gym when she was 12, following in the footsteps of her older sisters, Chelsea and Katie. Coached

by Lisa Spini, the owner of Desert Lights Gymnastics in Chandler, Skinner missed a shot at the 2012 London Olympics. Subsequently, she was named an alternate to the 2016 Rio de Janeiro team. Through the ups and downs, her family and friends loved and supported her, she says.

“I felt so blessed and grateful for the state of Arizona and friends and family who have been cheering me on,” she says.

“Obviously, winning a medal was the icing on the cake. It was coolest experience. With the prelims, making the Olympic team was a goal of mine. It was awesome to accomplish that. I had to take the individual spot, which was cool.”

She was “upset and emotional” about this summer’s Olympic performance on the floor and vault. However, she told herself she couldn’t give up.

“I wanted to finish on a good note,” she adds. “It was my last meet. I finished that last beam, and it was the beam routine of my life. I went up there and proved myself. It showed a lot of people in the world — fans, little girls and gymnasts — that anything is possible.

Whether I got a medal or not, chasing your dreams is worth it.”

Winning the silver medal at the Olympics was something she will “cherish forever.” It almost didn’t happen, as she replaced Biles on the vault.

“Having all those girls on the floor cheering me on was incredible,” Skinner

says about the USA Olympic team.

“That feeling was something I wish I could relive.”

Skinner says it was disappointing that her family couldn’t attend. She understood, however, and made it work.

She FaceTimed her family, especially her mother, with whom she is particularly close.

“We’ve traveled tons of times, and my family hasn’t always traveled,” she explains. “For the Olympic games, they saved up all that money so they could go if I made it. It was an adjustment, but we girls bonded and came together and became close because of it. Obviously, I wouldn’t trade it for the world.”

MyKayla Skinner

WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, September 22 WHERE: Gila River Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Avenue, Glendale COST: Tickets start at $21.50 INFO: gilariverarena.com, goldoveramericatour.com

Website: mykaylaskinner.com Twitter: @mskinner2016 Facebook: facebook.com/ mykaylaskinner Instagram: instagram.com/ mykaylaskinner2016

Athleta Presents Gold Over America Tour

BETTOR DAYS Teams and tribes are ready for gamblers

By Jill R. Dorson

W

ith companies like Caesars, FanDuel and Penn National Gaming building out sportsbooks at professional sports venues across the Valley, fantasy sports betting already has come to Arizona with betting on games arriving September 9.

Only a last-minute effort by the Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe stood in the way of sports betting going live that day. A hearing on a request for an emergency injunction was scheduled for September 3, past The Entertainer!’s deadline.

Assuming the judge does not grant the request, Arizona is poised to become the biggest state in the West to launch live sports betting since the Supreme Court struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) in May 2018.

The Arizona Department of Gaming is targeting the first day of the NFL season to launch the first operators. Many of the biggest, most well-known sports betting operators will be offering odds and taking bets.

The Arizona launch will be the fourth in the United States this year — unless either Wyoming or South Dakota get there first.

As legal sports betting has spread from Nevada to more than 30 other U.S. jurisdictions in the last three years, the western states have been a little behind the curve.

Statewide mobile wagering is available in Colorado, Iowa and Nevada, but the Arizona launch represents only the third new open, competitive marketplace west of the Mississippi since PAPSA was overturned.

BIG POPULATION EXCITES OPERATORS With a population of just over 7 million, it doesn’t hurt that the state is home to a professional sports team from each of the four major leagues, hosts NASCAR events, is a PGA Tour stop and has a passionate college football fanbase.

In all, eight sports organizations have received licenses. So too have 10 Arizona tribes after beating out six other tribes that had been competing for licenses.

“We are very excited about the future in Arizona. During the NBA playoffs, the world learned that the state has one of the most passionate fan bases in the country,” says Matt Prevost, chief revenue officer at BetMGM. BetMGM has formed a partnership with the Arizona Cardinals.

It also had partnered with the Gila River Indian Community, which was not listed by the state as a winning applicant to run mobile sports betting off reservation.

However, Arizona Gaming Department spokesperson Maxwell Hartgraves says all tribes can offer sports betting at their casinos.

The amended tribal-state gaming compacts that were signed by Gov. Doug Ducey and Arizona tribes earlier this year included the ability for tribes to offer a variety of new casino games such as craps and roulette as well as sports betting, Hartgraves says.

“With that comes a lot of expectations, and we look forward to delivering an above-and-beyond sports betting experience with unique mobile and retail activations throughout the state,” Prevost says.

Arizona’s new law allows for a maximum 20 “event wagering operator” licenses, divided evenly among tribal casinos and professional sports teams/ franchises.

Those with a license will be able to operate at least one retail sportsbook and up to two digital platforms. There are an additional 10 retail-only licenses Rentalracetracks Deposit available for the state’s horse and OTBs. Consumers will be able to wager on professional, college and Olympic sports. The new law is broad enough that operators may ultimately be able to offer betting on things like the Academy Awards, Heisman Trophy and other events that are not tied to sports.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2021

to open a second location within a set distance of the stadium.

For the most part, operators plan to launch their mobile platforms on September 9 with brick-and-mortars to follow.

Arizona is among the first U.S. jurisdictions in which sportsbooks will exist at professional sports venues.

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Washington, D.C.’s Capital One Arena became the first pro venue in the country to accept wagers when it began doing so in the summer of 2020.

And as of now, only Washington, D.C.; Illinois; Maryland and Arizona allow for sportsbooks in arenas.

Jill R. Dorson is the managing editor at sportshandle.com.

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MAJOR OPERATORS HAVE PARTNERS While Arizona will ultimately offer consumers myriad choices in who to bet with, the design of the law means that some tribal casinos won’t be able to offer sports betting.

The ADG approved daily fantasy operators to go live August 28. Those that are licensed must also have received approval for internal controls and house rules from the ADG. They include DraftKings, FanDuel, FFPC, Yahoo!, Fantasy Sports Shark and Underdog Sports.

In addition, approved event wagering operators already can offer consumers the chance to create and fund accounts.

Approved operators can also begin marketing to consumers.

A full list of licensed operators and their affiliated sports organizations or tribe casinos can be found at sportshandlecom/arizona.

Operators have plans for brick-andmortar sportsbooks at professional venues — and some are also entitled

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MUSIC

LISTEN » JAM » INNOVATE » EVOLVE » ROCK » SING

LIVE MUSIC

CALENDAR

By Connor Dziawura

SEPTEMBER 1 Chris Duarte

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $12-$15

Eric and the Other Troublemakers

Rhythm Room Re-Launch Party w/Jimmy Primetime Smith/Bob Corritore Blues Band The Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., $15

Viper Club

The Rebel Lounge, 6:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m., $13

SEPTEMBER 9 Atlas Genius

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $20

Daughtry

Talking Stick Resort, 8 p.m., sold out

Karla Bonoff

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $38.50-$46.50

The Atomic Punks

Marquee Theatre, 6:30 p.m., $22-$37 Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $25

Lindsey Stirling

Jam Session: Beth Lederman

Yucca Tap Room, 9 p.m., free

SEPTEMBER 2 The 40 Acre Mule

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $10-$12

Keiko Matsui

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $49.50-$54.50

Malaynah

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $12

Rauw Alejandro

Phoenix Blues Society Fundraiser w/Big Daddy D & the Dynamites and the Mike Eldred Trio The Rhythm Room, noon, $10

Prime Society

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., free

Riff Raff & DJ Whoo Kid

Pub Rock Live, 9 p.m., $18-$60

Celebrity Theatre, 8 p.m., $62-$117

SEPTEMBER 6

SEPTEMBER 3

Gogol Bordello

E.N Young

Last Exit Live, 6:30 p.m., $12.50

Hot Club of Cowtown

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $38.50-$44.50

Playboy Manbaby

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $10-$25

Sinshrift

The Rebel Lounge, 7:30 p.m., $10

Sugar Thieves

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $15

SEPTEMBER 4 Adam Clark Quartet

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $29-$39

Between the Buried and Me

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $30-$35

Terror

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $20

SEPTEMBER 7

half•alive Jerk!

Karla Bonoff

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $38.50-$46.50

Luzcid and Easybaked Aura, 9 p.m., $25-$35

Madds

Salt, 9 p.m., $15

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $20

City and Colour

Orpheum Theater - Phoenix, 8 p.m., $75-$361

NEEDTOBREATHE

Arizona Federal Theatre, 7 p.m., $35-$379.50

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $29-$39

Slightly Stoopid

Mesa Amphitheatre, 4:30 p.m., $59

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $25-$28

Worst Party Ever

The Rebel Lounge, 7:30 p.m., $12

SEPTEMBER 14

Last Exit Live, 9 p.m., $20-$23

Brother.

Transviolet

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $15

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $12

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $16-$55

Early Moods

Wynonna & the Big Noise

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

Celebrity Theatre, 8 p.m., $29-$64

Gary Clark Jr.

SEPTEMBER 11

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $50-$55

Jerry Douglas Band

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $44.50-$59.50

Tin Can Screamers

Miles to Nowhere

Gila River Arena, 8 p.m., $45.50-$375

Bully

Steely Dead

Celebrity Theatre, 8 p.m., $40-$204

Pepe Aguilar

SEPTEMBER 13

Last Exit Live, 6:30 p.m., $12.50-$15

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $10

Marquee Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $33

The Nash, 3 p.m., $42-$50

Nazim Rashid & New Renaissance: Remembering John Coltrane

Actors

The Rebel Lounge, 9 p.m., $15

khai dreams

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $17

Kimberly Weston

New Found Glory and Simple Plan

Niki Haris

Bikini Trill

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $33.50-$44.50

Last Exit Live, 9 p.m., $10

Marquee Theatre, 8 p.m., $18-$28

The Rebel Lounge, 7:30 p.m., $15

James McMurtry

The Neumonics and Japhy’s Descent

Jordan Rudess of Dream Theater

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 6:30 p.m., $39.50-$224

Minnesota

Celebrity Theatre, 8 p.m., $40-$80

The Rhythm Room, 6:30 p.m., $10

Korn and Staind

SEPTEMBER 8

Morris Day & the Time

JC & the Juke Rockers

MC Lars and Mega Ran w/MC Frontalot and Schaffer the Darklord

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $12-$15

Pub Rock Live, 8 p.m., $10-$15

Counting Crows

Dayglow

Shady Park, 9 p.m., $27.14-$32.77

Lewis Nash presents Niki Haris

Bogar’s Benefit Bash

Marquee Theatre, 9 p.m., $30-$60

Martin Ikin

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $5

Crescent Ballroom, 8:30 p.m., sold out

Yachtley Crew

Arizona Federal Theatre, 7 p.m., $48.50-$475

Carvin Jones

The Nash, 6 p.m., $5-$10, or free for instrumentalists and vocalists who sit in

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, 8 p.m., $39.50-$175

SEPTEMBER 10

Lillie Mae

Arizona Federal Theatre, 7 p.m., $29.50-$314.50

Squeeze

SEPTEMBER 12

Celebrity Theatre, 8 p.m., $40-$204

SEPTEMBER 5 The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $15

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m., $24

Styx

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $23.50 Last Exit Live, 7 p.m., $15-$17

Sherry Roberson pays tribute to Mahalia Jackson and Ella Fitzgerald

Styx

The Nash, 7 p.m. and 9:15 p.m., $49-$65 Shady Park, 9 p.m., $29.39-$35.01

Andy Frasco & the U.N. Jukebox the Ghost

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $22

Mavis Staples

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m., $45-$75

Tab Benoit

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $40-$45

The Orphan the Pilot and Friday Pilots Club Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $14

SEPTEMBER 15 Caamp

MitiS

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $28

Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $13

Aura, 9 p.m., $20

Girl Friday and Cryogeysey

Arizona Federal Theatre, 8 p.m., $48.50-$291.50

Glass Animals

The Van Buren, 7:15 p.m., $25-$100

Twin Tribes

Peter Rowan

Hail the Sun

Surfaces

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $13-$15

Vieux Farka Touré

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $38.50-$44.50

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $33.50-$38.50

Phoenix Blues Woman Showcase w/Lila Sherman, Elizabeth Green and Gypsy Wil The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $10

Arizona Federal Theatre, 7:30 p.m., sold out The Rebel Lounge, 7:30 p.m., $20

Perfume Genius

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $27

Tab Benoit

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $40-$45

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2021

Through the Roots

Last Exit Live, 7 p.m., $20-$25

SEPTEMBER 16 Arrested Youth

$38.50-$49.50

Cal Tjader Project

Tame Impala

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $29-$39

Yolanda Adams

Talking Stick Resort, 8 p.m., $35-$75

Gila River Arena, 8 p.m., $47.75-$175

Chris Isaak

The Secret Sisters

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Musical Instrument Museum, 2:30 p.m., $33.50-$44.50

The Small Glories

Orpheum Theater - Phoenix, 7 p.m., $103-$477

The Eagles

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $28.50-$38.50

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., sold out

SEPTEMBER 19

Goldrush Music Festival

Trippie Redd

Billy Bob Thornton & the Boxmasters

A Giant Dog

Last Exit Live, 8 p.m., $13

Guitar Shorty

SEPTEMBER 27

Arizona Blues Showdown Preliminary Rounds

Julian Lage Trio

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $14

The Backseat Lovers

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $50

Bronco

Celebrity Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $45-$130

Kevin Gates

Marquee Theatre, 8 p.m., sold out

Lady A

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 7 p.m., $40-$284

Malaa

The Van Buren, 9 p.m., $32-$42

SEPTEMBER 17 Dubbest

Last Exit Live, 9 p.m., $12-$15

Friday Night Rockabilly Riot w/ Voodoo Swing and Pat Roberts & the Heymakers The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $10

Jackson Browne

Celebrity Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $56-$151

John Craigie

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $18

Juli Wood

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $29-$42

The Rhythm Room, noon, $10

Immortal Guardian

Pub Rock Live, 8 p.m., $10-$15

International Peace Day Celebration: Music Without Borders The Nash, 3 p.m., $29-$39

Jam Session: Adam Clark

The Nash, 6 p.m., $5-$10, or free for instrumentalists and vocalists who sit in

Footprint Center, 8 p.m., $294.25-$900 Rawhide Western Town, 5 p.m., $99-$999 The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $15-$18 Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $33.50-$44.50

Lago

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $10

Luke Bryan

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 7 p.m., $50.75-$179

Nattali Rize

Last Exit Live, 9 p.m., $15-$20

Sidewinders (Sand Rubies)

Celebrity Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $56.50-$285.75

Weathers

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $15-$50

SEPTEMBER 20

The Nash, 7 p.m. and 9:15 p.m., $49-$65

Bob Corritore’s Birthday Party!

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $20

Dark Time Sunshine and Ceschi

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $17

SEPTEMBER 21 El Shirota

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $12

Aura, 9 p.m., $22-$32

SEPTEMBER 22

XIXA

Kandace Springs

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $38.50-$49.50

KBong

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $17

Lil Baby w/Lil Durk

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 8 p.m., $39.50-$729

Ron Gallo and Becca Mancari Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $16

SEPTEMBER 23 Anti-Flag

Lewis Del Mar

The Rebel Lounge, 7:30 p.m., $20-$25

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., sold out

Dear Boy

The Man in Black: A Tribute to Johnny Cash

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $15

Maluma

Mv Caldera

Footprint Center, 8 p.m., $50.50-$851.50

The Skatalites

Chandler Center for the Arts, 7:30 p.m., $20-$36

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $33.50-$44.50

Nero (DJ set)

SEPTEMBER 24

Sunbar Tempe, 9 p.m., $31

Nicole Pesce and Shea Marshall The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $32-$40

Ruthie Foster

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m.,

Shakey Graves

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $30-$35

SEPTEMBER 29

The Quarantine Scene: Bands Formed During the Pandemic

Talking Stick Resort, 8 p.m., $25-$45

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $15

John Legend

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m. and 9 p.m., $25-$28

Celebrity Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $56-$151

Sadgirl

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $33.50-$44.50

Wild Rivers

Jackson Browne

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $22

Gary Numan

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $15

Last Exit Live, 9 p.m., $15-$20

Last Exit Live, 8:30 p.m., $12-$15

Footprint Center, 8 p.m., $294.25-$875

The Eagles

Marquee Theatre, 8 p.m., $12.50-$50

The Higgs

Marquee Theatre, 6:15 p.m., $25-$45

Cold War Kids

Arizona Federal Theatre, 8 p.m., $61.50-$478.50

The Rhythm Room, 10 p.m., $10

Buckcherry

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., $12

Trever Keith

Cold Shott and the Hurricane Horns

SEPTEMBER 28

Local H

Marquee Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $25-$53

Tempe Beach Park, 3 p.m., $69-$2,750

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $20-$70

Akiko Tsuruga Trio

Pretty Tied Up: A Tribute to Guns N’ Roses

Boots in the Park w/Jon Pardi

Lee DeWyze

The Monkees

Toadies and Reverend Horton Heat

SEPTEMBER 18

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $30-$35

SEPTEMBER 25

Arizona Federal Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $39.99-$178.50

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 8 p.m., $29.95-$589

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $16

Kat Von D

Flipturn

Rawhide Western Town, 5 p.m., $99-$999

Whales and Hairitage

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $38.50-$49.50

Marquee Theatre, 8 p.m., $32-$62

Steel Panther

Pitbull

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $25

Carbon Leaf

Modest Mouse

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $12

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $30

Still Woozy

The Rhythm Room, 6 p.m., $10

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $15

Los Tigres Del Norte

Pub Rock Live, 7:30 p.m., $10

Beat of Venus

Laurie Morvan

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $27-$30

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, 8 p.m., $54.50-$468

Arizona Federal Theatre, 7 p.m., $29.50-$172.50

Bayside

The Van Buren, 7 p.m., $25-$30

Boz Scaggs

Chandler Center for the Arts, 7:30 p.m., sold out

Goldrush Music Festival

Kyle Kinane Las Calakas

Last Exit Live, 9 p.m., $15-$20

Little Joe y La Familia featuring the Hernandez Brothers

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, 8 p.m., $24.50-$148

Rickie Lee Jones

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $54.50-$74.50

Soulfly

Skating Polly

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., $12-$15

Tommy Castro and the Painkillers

070 Shake

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $25-$130

J.I.

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $25

JigJam

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $28.50-$38.50

Metalachi

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $20

Mike Eckroth Group

The Nash, 7 p.m., $25-$35

Marquee Theatre, 3:45 p.m., $29-$59

Omar Apollo

SEPTEMBER 26

The Wailers

Akiko Tsuruga Trio

The Nash, 3 p.m., $42-$50

Arizona Blues Showdown Finals The Rhythm Room, 1 p.m., $10

Cold Hart

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $20

Get the Led Out

Chandler Center for the Arts, 7 p.m., $28-$36

Goldrush Music Festival

Rawhide Western Town, 5 p.m., $99-$999

Jam Session: Stan Sorenson

The Nash, 6 p.m., $5-$10, or free for instrumentalists and vocalists who sit in

Kiss

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 7:30 p.m., $39.50-$1,000

No Lungs

The Rebel Lounge, 7:30 p.m., $10

Red Elvises

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $10

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $25-$28 Marquee Theatre, 7:15 p.m., $25-$55

SEPTEMBER 30 The Front Bottoms

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $25-$30

In This Moment and Black Veil Brides w/DED and Raven Black Arizona Federal Theatre, 6 p.m., $45

Jason Aldean

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 7:30 p.m., $40.50-$335

Jim Ward

The Rebel Lounge, 9 p.m., $18

The Legendary Tom Russell

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $35-$40

Matute

Orpheum Theater - Phoenix, 8:30 p.m., $76-$191

Slow Magic

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $22.50

Tech N9ne

Marquee Theatre, 8 p.m., $40 ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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

A WORLD COMING APART Gary Numan speaks for Earth’s destruction

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

G

ary Numan admits he’s insecure.

Since scoring eradefining hits such as “Cars,” “When the World Comes Apart” and “Are ‘Friends’ Electric,” Numan has been hailed by music pioneers such as Prince, David Bowie and Nine Inch Nails, and Kayne West and Lady Gaga credit him as an influence.

The electronic music godfather’s low self-esteem reared its head during the recording of his latest album, “Intruder.”

“I don’t go out to the studio sort of brimming with confidence and thinking I’m God’s gift to music and everything’s great,” Numan says during a Zoom call.

“I’m the opposite of that. I’m constantly worried. My confidence is fragile at best. It seems to be crumbled and at the edge all the time. I’m always fighting against my own self-doubt, worries and anxieties.”

Numan describes recording an album as standing at the foot of a mountain and looking up. Each album, he says, feels a little bit steeper and taller than the one

ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

before. Numan plugged his way through it to produce what critics have called his best music.

“Intruder” is Numan’s 18th solo studio album and follows 2017’s “Savage: Songs from a Broken World,” which became his highest-charting set in almost 40 years when it debuted at No. 2 on the U.K.’s official albums chart.

“Intruder” was recorded between sessions at Numan’s home studio in Los Angeles and at producer Ade Fenton’s studio in Bath, England. It was their fifth studio album together.

A concept album, “Intruder” sees Numan speaking on behalf of Earth about its poor treatment, with climate change and whatnot, and identifying humans as the problem.

“When COVID came along, in a sort of really tragic way, obviously it just fed straight into that,” Numan says. “Maybe COVID is one of these ways that the Earth is fighting back.”

Numan says he’s very excited about “Intruder,” which was released in late May. His tour in support of it comes to the Crescent Ballroom on Monday, September 20.

“It was something really interesting

to explore and something I hadn’t really thought about a great deal before,” he says. “It was a really interesting thing to do. The idea wasn’t even mine, though.

If I’m truthful, the idea was actually my younger daughter’s (Echo). When she just turned 12, she wrote a poem a few years ago about the Earth speaking to other planets, explaining why it was sad, and how horrible people were and all these terrible things that they would do to it.”

Numan says it was impressive for his “brilliant” young daughter to come up with this theme.

“She was such an important part of the whole idea coming together that when you open it, I put her poem on the sleeve.

My other two children sing on it as well.

Persia and Raven sing on a handful of the songs on the album.

“It’s very much a family affair,” he says.

Although he and his wife, Gemma, have three daughters who are musical, Numan doesn’t listen to music much.

“It does bother me a little bit,” he says.

“I feel like I should be more involved or I should be more aware of what’s going on.

“The children are massive music fans, and they keep me up to date. My wife, Gemma, is a music listener. I don’t think

I’ve sat down and listened to an album for pleasure.”

Numan has a theory about this. He spends so much time making music and performing it that when he’s not touring, he wants to get away from it.

“When I listen to music, it’s difficult not to analyst it and try to figure out, for example, how they got that drum sound,” he says.

“If it’s brilliant, you feel envious and you feel inferior. If it isn’t, you feel annoyed because, gosh, they could have done better than me. Music has also changed over the years. When I was younger, listening to music was one of my biggest sources of entertainment and pleasure. I just lost myself for hours every night. I’m living the dream now, so it’s different.”

Gary Numan: The Intruder Tour WHEN: 8 p.m. Monday, September 20 WHERE: Crescent Ballroom, 308 N. Second Avenue, Phoenix COST: $30 INFO: 602.716.2222, crescentphx.com

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THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2021

THE SONG

REMAINS THE SAME Get the Led Out replicates what fans love

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

L

ed Zeppelin fans who want to check out Get the Led Out should not expect the musicians to look like the classic rock legends. They won’t improvise either.

Get the Led Out plays the recorded versions of Led Zeppelin songs.

“I love classic rock,” singer Paul Sinclair says. “We’ve heard the album versions a zillion times. Everybody knows those versions and every nuance of Robert Plant’s vocals and the drum fills.

“People can’t get enough of it, still.

Why not just replicate what people already know and love?”

Get the Led Out plays the Chandler Center for the Arts at 7 p.m. Sunday, September 26, and it’s a bit of a homecoming for the East Coast band.

“Chandler was one of the first places in Arizona that took a chance on us,” Sinclair says. “That’s a great pocket for us. The venue is great. There is a large concentration of classic rock fans in that region. With each show, we find more people.”

With Get the Led Out, each show is different, as the band wants to respect those who attend multiple gigs. Recently, Get the Led Out honored a fan who saw the act 300 times.

“You’re naturally going to hear ‘Stairway to Heaven’ and ‘Moby Dick’ each show,” he says. “There are maybe six songs that are there every night. But we play 20 songs a night. There is anywhere from 10 to 14 different songs from one night to the next.

Zeppelin has a massive catalog.

“It encourages people to come. Fans follow us like the (Grateful) Dead.”

Sinclair loves his job as much as fans adore his band.

“I won’t be able to express how much joy I get from doing this,” he says. “When I was a kid watching the Monkees, I wanted to be Davy Jones. I would live a fun life, have pretty girls, travel with friends and stay up late.

That’s the life I wanted to lead. I never thought I’d be in a Led Zeppelin tribute band in my 50s, but, by God, it’s the greatest thing.”

Get the Led Out WHEN: 7 p.m.

Sunday, September 26 WHERE: Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Avenue, Chandler COST: $28 to $44 INFO: 480.782.2680, chandlercenter.org

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

A GATEWAY TO ACTIVISM

Anti-Flag brings its North American tour to the Rebel Lounge

By Alex Gallagher

P

ittsburgh-based punk rockers Anti-Flag are continuing their crusade for social justice with a September 23 show at the Rebel Lounge.

Anti-Flag was hot off the release of its 21st full-length album, titled “2020 Vision,” and a tour supporting the album when “the world shut down,” as the band’s bassist and vocalist Chris Barker says.

Now that the album has had time to age, Barker, who is also known by the stage name of Chris #2, is excited to play songs that Anti-Flag couldn’t play on its brief 2020 tour.

“I’m looking forward to playing some songs that we never got to play off of ‘2020 Vision,’ because we only got to play a few shows and then the world shut down,” he says.

Beyond playing songs like “You Make Me Sick” and “The Disease,” along with other hits, Barker is looking forward to encouraging audiences to fight for social justice and creating a safe space for fans of all walks of life.

“We go into every show with the idea ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

that everyone is going to at least leave with the core ideals and beliefs as a band,” Barker says. “If fans take away anything from our show, it is that there is a band that exists in this world that stands against bigotry, fascism and war for corporate empire. If we don’t let anyone know that is what’s happening, that is a failure.”

While he knows that alleviating negative emotions can spur forms of aggression, he hopes that an Anti-Flag concert serves more as a celebration and congregation of people invested in helping others.

“Though there is a lot of anger and frustration, I feel that our shows are a celebration of finding our people and carrying the energy in that room outside and extrapolating it into everyday life,” Barker says.

Aside from building a community at the show, Barker hopes to keep fans safe from the Delta variant and out of genuine concern for all fans in attendance.

“We don’t ever want to put anyone in our community in harm’s way,” he says.

“That’s why you’ve seen punk rock be at the forefront of anti-racist movements, anti-sexist movements, the battle against

homophobia, etc.”

Aside from keeping fans physically safe, he makes it a point to let the audience know it is OK to be their genuine selves while attending an AntiFlag show.

“Generally, our show begins with us saying our show is a safe space,” he says.

“We have microphones, amplification and powerful voices, which we use to extrapolate on the ideas of the song further.”

Barker has experienced a mix of emotions leading up to the tour, which begins on the September 14 and includes the stop at the Rebel Lounge on September 23.

“I’m excited for the hour long we’ll get to play music despite that all the things in between are frightening and scary,” he says. “It feels good to kind of be let off the leash, but at the same time, we’re going to try our best to make sure everybody is safe.

“Making records and writing music is cool, and I did a lot of it during the pandemic, but it’s not fulfilling. I play music for human interaction and searching for that solace.”

Music won’t be the only thing that audiences can indulge in as vendors

like PM Press, which is described as “an independent, radical publisher of books and media to educate and inspire, will be there.

Fans can also have their cheeks swabbed by the nonprofit Punk Rock Saves Lives to find out if they are bone marrow donors.

Though Anti-Flag is the headline act, Barker and co. are excited to learn from the younger bands accompanying the tour and encourage fans to catch opening acts Dog Party, Grumpster and Oxymorons.

“We’re grateful that these bands are willing to go on the road with old dogs like us,” he says with a laugh. “I’m grateful for all the things we will learn from touring with all the bands on both legs of the tour.”

Anti-Flag w/Dog Party, Grumpster and Oxymorons WHEN: 7 p.m. Thursday, September 23 WHERE: The Rebel Lounge, 2303 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix COST: $20 to $25 INFO: anti-flag.com or therebellounge.com

AGGRESSIVE STANCE The Arizona Federal Theatre is new ground for DED THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2021

By Alex Gallagher

D

ED vocalist Joe Cotela has one goal on his band’s tour with Black Veil Brides, In This Moment and Raven Black. He wants to inspire aspiring musicians who are cutting their teeth on the Arizona Federal Theatre as well.

“It’s really cool to be able to shout out that we’re from around here and that we’ve gone on to do some really amazing things,” Cotela says. “I hope it’s inspiring to other people who are from Arizona as well.”

The Tempe-based nu-metal band is touring in support of its new single, “Kill Beautiful Things,” which Cotela describes as “more melodic.”

“I’m excited to show that side of us,” the former Ahwatukee resident and Corona Del Sol High School alumnus says. “I’m excited to integrate that song into such a high-energy set.”

The energy will be dispersed among songs like those from DED’s debut album “Mis-An-Thrope” and four new singles that will be included in a new album slated for October.

“We’re going to try to diversify the set list and have the favorites from ‘Mis-AnThrope’ and then some of the new songs

that will usher in the new sound,” Cotela says.

“We toured ‘Mis-An-Thrope’ for three years, and we feel like if people have seen us before they’ve already heard those songs, and it’s cool to get some new stuff out there.”

That doesn’t mean that Cotela is any less thrilled about them.

“I’m always excited for ‘AntiEverything’ and ‘Hate Me,’ which seem to be the favorites off of ‘Mis-AnThrope,’” he says.

“I’m also excited to play ‘Parasite,’ which seems to be an early fan favorite off the new album.”

Cotela says DED’s music fits snugly with his tourmates’ songs.

“I think we mix in really well with the tour,” he says. “It’s a very visual tour where we all wear certain clothes and makeup. Every band is heavy but melodic at the same time.”

Since forming DED in 2016, Cotela says he feels fortunate to have played stages around the world. However, he is especially excited to play the Arizona Federal Theatre for the first time.

“We’ve played such cool venues all over the world, and to come and play such a big venue that I’ve seen so many shows at is killer,” he says.

“I’ve played a lot of the stages in Arizona,

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but this is the one that I’ve never stepped foot on, so it’s a new ground for us.”

He admits, though, that the configuration of Arizona Federal Theatre will be a challenge.

“It’s a little weird for us, because we’re such an aggressive band,” he says. “We still do the same show at every venue, but it’s a little less inclusive because the fans can’t be as close with each other at a venue like that.”

Cotela has learned to adapt to venues like the Federal Theatre by eyeing the stage during soundcheck.

“I usually walk out for soundcheck and check out everything to see how I can utilize the environment,” he says. “I often just play to the environment, which can add something cool to the show or allows me to do something unique.”

Even though DED is the support act, it plans to perform like a headliner.

“We always try to play like we’re the headliner no matter where or what time we play at,” Cotela says. “We always try to make the most out of our time and headline in our own right during that time we’re on stage.”

play at the Federal Theatre.

“It definitely gives you a more formal vibe, and it’s almost like our theatrical performance fits that kind of a venue better sometimes,” he says.

More importantly, he is excited to be able to jam some of the band’s biggest hits.

“I’m excited to play any of our songs, because they all feel like new songs almost,” Howorth says. “Now we want to play all of the hits under these circumstances and throw in a few songs that we love to play.”

Songs from “Mother” will make their live debut, and that includes the Grammynominated track “The In Between.”

“It was a very successful album for us, but at the same time, it got sucked into the void and we never did any touring on it,” Howorth says. “We’re going to have at least one or two songs off the new album and then all of our more current songs. Nothing is going to go past our album ‘Blood,’ which is what people know us for.”

Co-headlining with Black Veil Brides, Howorth and In This Moment

are looking forward to the openers — Raven Black and Tempe’s DED. DED singer Joe Cotela and Brink are in a relationship.

“This tour is something that’s been a long time coming with Black Veil Brides,” he says. “I know that they have a large group of fans that may know of us or may have never seen us, and the same thing for us with them.

“DED is such a rad band with such great dudes, and we’re super excited to have them on as well.”

EMOTIONAL RESCUE

In This Moment has mixed feelings about tour

By Alex Gallagher

I

n This Moment guitarist Chris Howorth is a little sketchy about his tour with Black Veil Brides, DED and Raven Black.

The Los Angeles-based metal band was looking forward to touring its 2020 album, “Mother,” when the world closed.

“This tour’s been pumped and ready to go for almost two years,” says Howorth, whose jaunt makes a stop at Arizona Federal Theatre on September 30.

“It’s really exciting that it’s going to happen, but there is still some trepidation. A lot of bands are out right now testing the waters, and some are coming back with show cancellations, which is a bit nerve wracking.”

Despite all the hesitation, Howorth’s emotions headed into the tour have

remained the same.

“My emotions are similar to the way they were going into the last tour — the same tour that was supposed to happen last year before COVID-19 derailed everything,” says Howorth, who co-founded the band with vocalist Maria Brink.

Brink has been working with dancers on choreography for the tour.

In the weeks before the tour, In This Moment planned to meet in Nashville to rehearse a week and a half before hitting the road. During that time, the band determined the set list and prepared for its larger-scale production.

“Our show is almost like a theater performance with a rock band smashed in there,” he says. “The idea is to basically put a visual stimulus to what you’re seeing and what you’re hearing at the same time.”

Because of this, Howorth is excited to

In This Moment and Black Veil Brides w/DED and Raven Black WHEN: 6 p.m. Thursday, September 30 WHERE: Arizona Federal Theatre, 400 W. Washington Street, Phoenix COST: $45 (limited tickets available) INFO: arizonafederaltheatre.com, inthismomentofficial.com ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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

‘UPBRINGING’

Chase Bryant gets second chance at life and music

By Annika Tomlin

F

ollowing a bout with depression and self-discovery, Chase Bryant has come out on the other end ready to continue to do what he believes is his destiny: to play music.

Bryant is set to headline the twoday Country Music Festival at the Vista Center for the Arts in Surprise.

Shooter Jennings, Lee Rocker and Kendell Marvel hit the stage on Friday, September 10, while Bryant, Jerrod Niemann and Austin Burke entertain on Saturday, September 11.

Bryant is touring in support of first full-length album “Upbringing.” Calling it a “bittersweet and surreal moment,” Bryant is eager to get back on stage after being unable to due to the pandemic.

“It’s really tough, but it’s incredibly gratifying to know that we are back to being able to do what we really love,” Bryant says. “What I love is being out on the road with friends and buddies and getting out there and seeing we’re all surviving this.

“There are a lot of us that are surviving this massive detriment to the world, and I’m just so proud to be back out on the road and healthy.”

The road to “Upbringing” was a rocky ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

one, he says. He attempted suicide in 2018 but feels like he was given a second chance.

“Obviously I wondered if I was ever going to make another record and if music was for me, but it’s all I’ve known all of my life,” he says. “There is a reason that I’m on the path that I am on.

“For me it was kind of just follow your guts and your destiny. That’s what it always felt like; it was my destiny.”

Bryant describes three things that keep him motivated and on track: honesty with himself, finding clarity with things that were hidden before and “staying positive as much as I can.”

“Obviously I still have good and bad days, but I’ve never had a day like that day,” Bryant says. “It’s just been those three things that have me keep climbing that mountain.”

“Upbringing” is an honest portrait of his struggles and resilience. He hopes listeners can “find something to connect to” on the album.

“I think the record is sort of this roller coaster,” Bryant explains. “Some people like the fast parts of the roller coaster and some people like the car that go slow and some people like the ones that go, ‘Oh, this is about to be scary.’

“It’s just a matter of if somebody can find something that they can gravitate

toward and can live vicariously.”

The hardest part about the album was choosing the songs, as he penned a plethora of them.

“Narrowing it down after writing so many songs was tough,” he says. “I wrote, God knows, how many songs for this record, and then now narrowing it all down was a total pain, but we made it through it.”

Bryant stepped away from the Nashville machine and returned to his roots, recording his album at Aryln Studios in Austin with producer Jon Randall (Miranda Lambert, Jack Ingram). Working with Randall, as well as Charlie Sexton, JJ Johnson and Jacob Sciba, was a “massive achievement” for Bryant.

Now, Bryant is excited for his return to the stage to play his new songs. He didn’t have a direct answer about his favorite songs to perform in concert.

“It’s funny because I wrote so much stuff that it’s like I tend to want to try new things, so it’s almost like what three songs did I write that week,” Bryant says.

“What is this going to be like? I tend to want to try on some new songs and just see what happens.”

With the event taking place on the 20th anniversary of 9/11, Bryant will “make it a point to stop and honor those

people who have served and given their lives for us,” as he does during every performance. Bryant lost a “really good friend years ago overseas fighting the wars of this country after the whole 9/11.”

“I just always find a moment to thank those people and I do it every night on stage, so it doesn’t matter whether it is 9/11 or not, that kind of never changes,” Bryant says.

“I just kind of go there and sometimes I take it a little far and speak out of line. I’m obviously proud to be playing that show then and to be able to take a moment and salute those men and women.”

Country Music Festival w/Shooter Jennings, Lee Rocker and Kendell Marvel the first day; and Chase Bryant, Jerrod Niemann and Austin Burke the second WHEN: 5 p.m. Friday, September 10, and Saturday, September 11 WHERE: Vista Center for the Arts, 15660 N. Parkview Place, Surprise COST: $75 to $135 INFO: thevistaaz.com

MISSING THE STAGE THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2021

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John Waite returns with new music in hand

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

J

ohn Waite is having a rough morning.

It’s 9 a.m. on the West Coast and his French press just “exploded,” leaving him without one of his favorite beverages.

“It was leaking all week,” Waite confesses. “The side of it just fell out. It went kaput. The one thing I live for is coffee.”

Waite also lives for touring. This month he’s heading out on select dates with Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo. The tour, which features Benatar and Giraldo with a full band, comes to the Arizona Federal Theatre on Saturday, September 11.

The jaunt is among the few shows Waite has had since the pandemic began.

“It’s like we’ve gone to warp speed overnight,” says Waite, who fronted the Babys. “We did a private huge, outdoor show a couple months ago in Gilroy, near Sacramento. We’re doing another private event big deal in Dayton, Ohio.

“From there, I’m going to England to see my mum, finally. This is really serious. All the gigs that were moved. It’s all happening at once. I’ll be in Holland in September for a 10-day trip around Holland.”

He says he wishes everyone would get the vaccination and wear a mask.

“People are dropping dead,” he says.

“Then they’re saying, ‘I was wrong.

Get the vaccine.’ Famous last words.

It’s common sense. I hope we can get through this in the next couple of months and have a tremendous new year.

It’s just a matter of getting everyone on the same page.

“There are people who say, ‘You’re not going to tell me what to do. In doing that, they’re making it more dangerous to go out because they’re not vaccinated. It’s kind of selfish. I’d like to say something nice about it, but this is a pandemic. It stopped the world turning.

This couldn’t be any bigger.”

Waite, who lives near the ocean in Santa Monica, handled the pandemic well. The water was soothing and reminded him of being “on holiday.”

“Red wine came in very handy,” he says with a laugh. “Well, a lot of red wine, but that got ridiculous. I put the cork back in the bottle.”

Waite spent the pandemic creating music. He recently released the third of a three-volume CD acoustic set, “A Wooden Heart,” which is selling well, he says.

“I can’t believe it,” he says. “I don’t know if people are just bored at home.

We’re hard pressed to keep it in stock.

We’re in the second reprint.

“It was a distraction during the pandemic. There’s also a documentary on yours truly that is being filmed. I had camera crews in the studio, in my condo, on the street. It’s a big deal, really.

It’s a top-flight thing. They had two cameras at the same time, and makeup and people being interviewed all over the world.”

“A Wooden Heart” — along with his 1984 single “Missing You,” which reached No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart and Top 10 on the U.K. singles chart — is the focus of his set list in Phoenix.

“There’s a set list of about 25 songs,” he says. “Obviously, there’s a real urge to get behind the ‘Wooden Heart’ release.

Because it’s selling that well, people are coming to the shows to see it.

“We stop in the middle and play three or four acoustic songs. We do Bob Dylan’s ‘Not Dark Yet.’ I’m pretty proud of that one. It’s a real commitment to do

a Dylan song. It’s a lifetime of music. We stop and talk, and people ask questions.

I walk out to the mic and hit the ‘on’ switch. It’s all about communicating with people.”

Occasionally, guitarist Kyle Cook from Matchbox Twenty joins Waite on stage and in the studio.

“Kyle and I are like brothers,” Waite says. “He’s in a whole new world in his personal life. He’s very creative.

“We met cold in a songwriting room in Nashville and just hit it off. I was wearing a black suit, and he was wearing shorts and a T-shirt. We couldn’t be any more different, but we had the same intentions musically.”

The two wrote three songs together and then went on the road after Waite’s 2011 album “Rough & Tumble” was released.

“We did a song called ‘Evil’ on ‘Rough & Tumble,’” he says. “That was us in his house in Nashville with one amp, one guitar, one mic and me playing bass.

I was playing the groove from ‘Isn’t It

Time’ from the Babys.

“He put the mic on the amp and played the Telecaster. We kept all of that and went in the studio and put real drums on it. He played the guitar solo.

It’s the greatest thing. Isn’t it weird that you can get a song that you record in the spare room and it becomes a single?”

Country singer Tim McGraw originally had “Evil” on hold for two months, but when he passed on it, Waite and Cook recorded it.

“We were going to have this gigantic hit, but we threw it together in a closet,” he says with a laugh.

Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo w/John Waite WHEN: 8 p.m. Saturday, September 11 WHERE: Arizona Federal Theatre, 400 W. Washington Street, Phoenix COST: Tickets start at $48.50 INFO: arizonafederaltheatre.com ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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IN CLOSING

FUN » FACTS » LEARN » SHARE » PLAY

NUMBERS

By Annika Tomlin

The average weight of a blue whale’s heart is 400 pounds.

Jane Austen’s 1813 novel “Pride and Prejudice” was originally dubbed “First Impressions.”

The world’s first movie trailer was shown at a theater in Harlem, New York, in 1914 to promote an upcoming Charlie Chaplin film.

Froot Loops comes in six colors, but they are the same flavor.

Tennis players can be fined up to $20,000 for swearing while playing at Wimbledon.

There are 16 million thunderstorms that occur each year worldwide.

The oldest “your mom” joke was discovered on a 3,500-year-old Babylonian tablet.

In 2018, the U.S. Navy equipped its submarines with Xbox 360 controllers for its periscopes.

Men are bored of shopping after 26 minutes, while it takes on average 2 hours for a woman to feel the same.

In the 16th century, Turkish women could initiate divorce if their husbands didn’t provide enough coffee.

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