The Entertainer January 2019

PHX METRO » JANUARY 2019

DRIVING CHARITY

Carolyn Jackson has Barrett-Jackson’s heart

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Sara Robinson

HONEST TO GOODNESS

Shirley MacLaine on truth and performing

ENTERTAINMENT AMPLIFIED

Under The Streetlamp

Daughtry

Friday, Dec 7

Friday, Dec 14

The Showroom

The Ballroom

Jerry Riopelle

Friday & Saturday, Dec 28 & 29 The Showroom

New Year's Eve Celebration Monday, Dec 31

Ana Popovic

Air Supply

Saturday, Jan 26

Saturday, Feb 2

The Showroom

The Ballroom

The Ballroom

P L A Y

I N

S T Y L E

For tickets call the box office at 480.850.7734 or visit ticketmaster.com 1 01 & TA L K I N G S T I C K W A Y

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SCOTTSDALE

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TA L K I N G S T I C K R E S O R T. C O M

Locally owned and caringly operated by the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2019

CONTENTS

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12 ON THE COVER

DRIVEN HEART

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Carolyn Jackson leads Barrett-Jackson’s charitable campaign

THE AFTERNOON STAR

Shirley MacLaine says honesty is the nation’s best policy

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FIRE IS LIT

Rozonda ‘Chilli’ Thomas is still hot for TLC on the cover: Carolyn Jackson courtesy of Barrett-Jackson

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THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2019

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

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publisher

Steve T. Strickbine

steve@entertainermag.com

executive editor

MR. HUSTLE

Niki D’Andrea

ndandrea@timespublications.com

editor

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

The Suns’ Richaun Holmes calls his play ‘high energy’

christina@timespublications.com

designer

Chris Chattom

production manager Courtney Oldham

production@timespublications.com

CONTENTS UPFRONT 9 Top 25 • Barrett-Jackson • Shirley MacLaine • Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show • Birds Nest

CITY

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Monster Jam • We Banjo 3 • Lee Perreira

THE DOWNTOWNER

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circulation director

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Aaron Kolodny

aaron@entertainermag.com

contributing writers

Alison Bailin Batz, Kristine Cannon, Heather Copfer, Connor Dziawura, Sherry Jackson, Laura Latzko, Carson Mlnarik, Randy Montgomery, Eric Newman, Madison Rutherford, Alan Sculley

COMING ‘HOME’

Staff Photographers

Kimberly Carrillo, Pablo Robles

Sara Robinson takes a no-nonsense approach to music

Contributing Photographers

Chadwick Fowler, Julieta Cervantes, Barry Gossage/Anthony Gonzales, NBAE via Getty Images, Le Blanc Resort and Spa, Tyler Leaman, Stephanie Masters, Gabriella Pichardo, Jason Quigley, Sarah Sachs/Arizona Diamondbacks, Tim Sealy, Studio 616, Ruben Tomas, Brendan Walter

Top 10 • Royal Rumble • Andrew McMahon

TRAVEL

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Sonoma • Cabo

ARTS

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Francine Reed • Arts Calendar • Hello, Dolly!

• The Secret Life of Women • Portland Cello Project

DINING

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LIKE A PHOENIX

Cover photo of Carolyn Jackson courtesy Barrett-Jackson

Buffalo Chip embraces new fanbase

ONE COPY PER READER

40 The Entertainer! is circulated throughout the Phoenix Metro area, especially concentrated in entertainment districts. ©2019 Affluent Publishing, LLC. A free online subscription is available to all readers simply by going to entertainermag.com/subscribe.

Best Food Events in January • Happy Hour Guide • Weft and Warp

BEER AND WINE

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Best Beer and Wine Events in January • Beerfinder • The Womack

CASINOS

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George Lopez • TLC • Casino Entertainment Calendar

SPORTS

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Best Sports Events in January • Richaun Holmes

FAMILY

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Best Family Events in January • Disney on Ice

ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

MUSIC 59

IN CLOSING

Sara Robinson Band • Live Music Calendar • Pink Martini • The Maine

You’re Not Gonna Believe This

NIGHTLIFE

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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.

DISTRIBUTION SERVICES PROVIDED BY:

Best Nightlife Events in January • Mad Mixologist • Buffalo Chip

480.348.0343

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2019

UPFRONT

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PHX » CITY » LOCAL » PRIDE » DO » SEE

TOP25 Carson Mlnarik » The Entertainer!

PlayStation Fiesta Bowl

JANUARY 1 The long-running bowl game promises to be another exciting show of college football. For the first time, Louisiana State University and University of Central Florida will square off. With LSU favored to take it, it’s underdog UCF’s to win.

State Farm Stadium, 1 Cardinals Drive, Glendale, 623.433.7101, fiestabowl.org, 11 a.m., $95-$350.

for unmarried half-a-millionaire Horace Vandergelder. Don’t miss the farcical fun and over-the-top role, portrayed by Betty Buckley.

ASU Gammage, 1200 S. Forest Avenue, Tempe, 480.965.3434, asugammage. com, times vary, $30-$225.

It's Not You, It's Me

JANUARY 2 TO JANUARY 20 This special improvised performance

by The Second City tackles love, the world’s craziest phenomenon, head-on. From missed connections to dating app disasters, each show promises to take a close, hard look at dating in the modern age – and then make you laugh.

Phoenix Theatre, 1825 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, 602.254.2151, phoenixtheatre. com, times vary, $36-$86.

Pinnacle Peak Farmers Market

JANUARY 5 The hottest thing is happening at Wet ‘n’ Wild this winter. This growing farmers market offers a large variety of fruits and vegetables, as well as goods like hummus, organic eggs and sauces. While you cannot pick it off the bush yourself, supporting the local farmers is the next best thing.

Wet ‘n’ Wild, 4243 W. Pinnacle Peak Road, Glendale, 602.465.1343, bit.ly/2DViH3w, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., prices vary.

Hello, Dolly!

JANUARY 8 TO JANUARY 13 The hit Broadway revival is taking its show on the road. The classic musical follows Dolly Gallagher Levi, a strong-willed matchmaker as she travels to Yonkers, New York, to find a match

Tempe Improv, 930 E. University Drive, Tempe, 480.921.9877, tempeimprov. com, times vary, $25-$50.

ACE Comic Con

JANUARY 11 TO JANUARY 13 All things nerdy come together for the three-day ACE Comic Con, which brings actors like Tom Hiddleston (Loki), Michael Fassbender (Magneto), Krysten Ritter (Jessica Jones), Taron Eggerton (Kingsman) and David Tennant (Doctor Who) to Glendale. Each day will feature panels and more photo and autograph opportunities than you could shake a custom-made Harry Potter wand at. Get one from a vendor and go for it.

Gila River Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Avenue, Glendale, 623.772.3800, aceuniverse. com, times vary, $65-$125 and additional fees for photo ops.

Food Truck Casino Night

Assisted Living: The Musical

JANUARY 10 TO JANUARY 13 This vaudeville-style musical revue explores the more risqué sides of retirement. Two actors play the show’s cast of 18 characters, each spinning a different and colorful tale of senior citizen life – from “Saggin’” to “I’ve Fallen for You (And I Can’t Get Up).”

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second Street, Scottsdale, 480.499.8587, scottsdaleperformingarts. org, times vary, $39.

JANUARY 12 It’s a parking lot party at Desert Diamond Casino, but instead of tailgating Toyotas, it’s your favorite local food trucks. Each food truck of a different fried, filleted or “fandangled” variety takes cash and card. Afterward, attendees can enjoy live entertainment or press their penny’s luck at the casino.

Desert Diamond West Valley Resort and Casino, 9341 W. Northern Avenue, Glendale, 623.877.7777, getlocalarizonaevents. com, 5 to 9 p.m., free.

Polar Play Frozen Wonderland

JANUARY 16 Just because it’s winter in Arizona doesn’t mean it feels like it. Chill out with Arizona’s icy wonderland that’s part arcade bar and part kid-friendly playground. That’s right, this is your chance to party in an igloo!

Admission includes a parka and gloves to wear, as well as plenty of photo ops, backyard games like yard pong and horseshoes and access to a cozy lounge for defrosting.

Polar Play Ice Bar at OdySea, 9500 E. Via de Ventura, Suite E104, Scottsdale, 480.291.6578, polarplay.com, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., $10 kids and $15 adults.

TLC

JANUARY 18 No scrubs are allowed as T-Boz and Chilli bring a wave of ’90s R&B pop and hip-hop nostalgia to Chandler. The duo has carried on after third member Left Eye died in 2002, celebrating her as they take audiences through songs like “Creep,” “Waterfalls” and “Unpretty.”

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, 800.946.4452, playatgila.com, 8 p.m., $45-$75.

Two Mile Hollow

Steve-O: The Bucket List Tour JANUARY 11 AND JANUARY 12 Stephen Glover – better known to the early 2000’s MTV crowd as Steve-O – became a household name with his over-the-top stunt show. His tour brings the raunchy and the ridiculous to Tempe for two nights. He warns attendees his set is chock full of adult language and sexual humor, which probably comes as no surprise to his fans.

with the Sickness” and “The Sound of Silence” is back with a world tour in support of its seventh album.

Evolution, the band’s first new album in three years, covers societal hot topics like government, death, war and technology. Three Days Grace, a band of notable rockers in its own right, is set to open.

Gila River Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Avenue, Glendale, 623.772.3800, gilariverarena. com, 7:30 p.m., $38-$83.

Disturbed and Three Days Grace

JANUARY 14 The rock band behind hits like “Down

JANUARY 18 TO FEBRUARY 2 This unapologetic – and at times, savage – comedy from Stray Cat Theatre takes the idea of role reversal and runs with it. Two Mile Hollow follows an affluent Caucasian family and their POC personal assistant as they pack up their oceanfront mansion to move. As the wine flows, family secrets begin to pour, and nothing is as it seems – especially with the casting decision that none of the white characters ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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will be portrayed by white actors.

Tempe Center for the Arts, 700 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, 480.350.2822, straycattheatre. org, times vary, $25-$30.

for this one. Accompanied by Seth Rudetsky, McDonald will let her classic soprano voice shine on covers such as “Over the Rainbow” and more modern tracks like “Facebook Song.”

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second Street, Scottsdale, 480.499.8587, scottsdaleperformingarts. org, 8 p.m., $59-$89.

Scottsdale Rosé Fest

Carnival of Illusion: An Evening of Old-World Magic

JANUARY 18 AND JANUARY 19 This old-world illusion show transports audiences to the days of vaudeville traveling show with a hint of 1900s Parisian intrigue and magic tricks. Be prepared to be amazed with magic, mystery and a touch of “ooh la, la” with this Arizona-spun touring performance.

Tempe Center for the Arts, 700 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, 480.350.2822, carnivalofillusion. com, times vary, $45-$60.

Dogs’ Day in the Garden

JANUARY 19 Explore the Desert Botanical Garden’s scenic paths with your furry family member at this special dogs’ day. Meet dog-friendly folk, take pics with your pooch and enjoy samples and resources from local dog-related nonprofits and shops. Not a ruff deal at all!

Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, 480.941.1225, dbg.org, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., $12.95 kids, $24.95 adults and $4 per dog.

JANUARY 19 Not quite red, not quite white.

Scottsdale celebrates everyone’s favorite sweet-tasting pink wine with a four-hour party. Over 20 varieties of rosé await enthusiasts and amateurs along with music and photos.

Wasted Grain, 7295 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale, 480.970.0500, oldtownfests.com, 2 to 6 p.m., $20.

Rock ’n’ Roll Marathon and Half-Marathon

JANUARY 19 AND JANUARY 20 Runners from near and far start their year off on the right foot…then the left foot, and then the right again with the annual Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon.

Bands perform throughout the course, which has different length options on each day. Performances by the Plain White T’s and a mystery act await those strong enough to finish the 26.2-mile marathon.

Arizona Center, Van Buren Street and Second Street, Phoenix, 800.311.1255, runrocknroll.com, $103 for half-marathon, $132 marathon and other race prices vary.

Remember Patsy Cline

JANUARY 20 Go “Crazy” for the country music legend behind ’50s and ’60s Nashville hits like “I Fall to Pieces” and “Your Cheating Heart.” This musical celebrates Patsy Cline’s discography and life as she helped create the Grand Ole Opry and became the first female solo artist to be inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Avenue, Chandler, 480.782.2680, chandlercenter. org, 3 p.m., $32-3$38.

The Anxiety Project

Audra McDonald

JANUARY 19 Actress and singer Audra McDonald brings her talent to the stage, but leaves the six Tony Awards at home ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

JANUARY 20 A collaboration between ASU and the Phoenix Theatre, The Anxiety Project shares true stories of anxiety, loss, struggle, relationships and alienation.

This new show is sure to touch all those brave enough to give this matureaudiences-only project a chance.

ASU Kerr Cultural Center, 6110 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.596.2660, bit. ly/2Sj3MnE, 6 p.m., $12.75.

National Geographic Live: A Wild Life

JANUARY 23 From camping with wolves in Vancouver to recording leopards as they wander Mumbai, filmmaker Bertie Gregory has been up close and personal with some of the most amazing animals. Sharing respect, humor and coexistence with these creatures is part of Gregory’s daily life; he recounts such experiences with video clips and an onstage discussion.

Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main Street, Mesa, 480.644.6500, mesaartscenter.com, 7:30 p.m., $27-$41.

Elton John: Farewell Yellow Brick Road

JANUARY 26 The pop musical icon is hanging up his diamond-studded coat after more than half a century on the road and career-defining hits like “Rocket Man,” “Tiny Dancer” and “Your Song.” His Glendale stop — one of more than 300 shows on the farewell venture — promises to be emotional and fabulous.

Gila River Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Avenue, Glendale, 623.772.3800, gilariverarena. com, 8 p.m., sold out.

0.5K: The Ultimate Underachiever’s “Run”

JANUARY 26 Participation is all that counts, right? The Ultimate Underachiever’s “Run” takes participants on a wild 19,685-inch course. Venturing from Boondocks Patio and Grill to a champagne and donut party at the finish line, the “race” will award prizes like Biggest Underachievers and Best Dressed.

Boondocks Patio and Grill, 4341 N. 75th Street, Scottsdale, 480.744.9011, phxfray. com, 11 a.m., $42-$49.

The Superior Home and Building Tour

JANUARY 26 AND JANUARY 27 Take a trip to Superior for a glimpse into the more eclectic side of Arizona living. The weekend’s festivities include a tour through the town’s historic and renovated buildings, each showcasing a different side of Superior’s unique history. An antique show and a Saturday midmorning guided hike to the old Queen Creek tunnel are also featured.

Superior Chamber of Commerce, 165 W. Main Street, Superior, 520.689.0200, superiorarizonachamber.org, times vary, online pre-sale $13 and at the door $15.

Walker Stalker Convention

JANUARY 26 AND 27 Dance 2018 away and beckon the new year with this late-night dance party, featuring the who’s who in EDM. With acts like Porter Robinson, Alison Wonderland and Marshmello set to the take the stage, it just might be the coolest show of this year – and next.

Rawhide Western Town and Event Center, 5700 W. North Loop Road, Chandler, 480.502.5600, decadencearizona. com, 5 p.m., $199-$749.

The Waste Management Phoenix Open

JANUARY 28 TO FEBRUARY 3 Phoenix’s PGA Tour tournament is the state’s biggest golf event.

Bringing together sports enthusiasts, celebrities and plenty of food and drink, it’s no wonder it was recently named “Tournament of the Year.”

This year’s accompanying Birds Nest concert series sees Old Dominion, The Chainsmokers and Snoop Dogg among others hitting the stage throughout the weekend.

TPC Scottsdale, 17020 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale, 480.585.4334, wmphoenixopen.com, times vary, free Monday and Tuesday, $45 Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday, and $60 Friday and Saturday. Birds Nest ticket prices are separate.

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ENGINES OF C Carolyn Jackson leads Barrett-Jackson’s Driven Hearts campaign Niki D’Andrea >> The Entertainer!

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hilanthropy is as deeply ingrained in the annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auctions as a passion for one-of-a-kind wheels. Since the world-renowned car show began, co-founder Russ Jackson, his wife Nellie, and sons Craig and Brian focused on giving back to their communities and raising awareness and funds for a variety of charitable causes including Childhelp, TGen, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. In fact, the first auction Russ Jackson and Tom Barrett put on in 1967, the “Fiesta de los Autos Elegantes,” was a fundraiser for local charities including the Scottsdale Library.

The family philanthropy legacy continues, with Barrett-Jackson CEO Craig Jackson’s wife, Carolyn Jackson, who serves as vice president of brand strategy for the company, leading their charitable efforts. That includes her work on a year-long campaign called Driven Hearts and serving as chairman of the 59th annual Phoenix Heart Ball.

We recently caught up with Carolyn Jackson to get details on Driven Hearts, the upcoming 2019 Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Scottsdale, and more.

What are your responsibilities as vice president of brand strategy at Barrett-Jackson?

I oversee the company’s image as ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

The World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions, working to elevate not only the Barrett-Jackson brand through strategic partnerships and marketing, but also the entire guest experience at our unique automotive lifestyle events – particularly at our opening night galas.

What are your favorite things about the annual Barrett-Jackson collector car auctions?

We are so honored to be able to provide a platform where vehicles can be sold to benefit charitable organizations, both large and small, local and national. To date, nearly $105 million has been raised for many important causes. The moments those special cars are sold are handsdown my favorite part of every auction – there is so much excitement and emotion in the room, knowing that every penny of every sale price goes directly to each worthy organization.

I am always amazed by the generosity and kindness of the collector car community, who donate and bid on these vehicles to provide this vital support.

From left, Gov. Doug Ducey, Craig Jackson, Ca

Ball, my focus was on the mission of the American Heart Association and getting the message across about heart disease and stroke. When I learned that

that. We launched the campaign at our 2018 Scottsdale Auction and carried it through our three other auctions across the country – in total, more than $1 million has been raised to date purely through the auction of vehicles to benefit the AHA, and even more through donations and purchase of special merchandise.

Our guests will continue to learn about Driven Hearts through messaging at our 2019 Scottsdale Auction. Arizona residents can also purchase the first-ever stateissued Barrett-Jackson license plate, with a portion of each plate fee earmarked for the AHA.

“I’m a firm believer in giving back; it’s something my parents instilled in me from an early age.”­— Carolyn Jackson

Tell me about the Driven Hearts charity campaign that just wrapped up. What's been happening with this initiative throughout the year?

When I began my tenure as chairman of the 59th annual Phoenix Heart

heart disease is the No. 1 killer of both men and women, yet it is 80 percent preventable, I realized immediately that Barrett-Jackson’s unique and highly visible platform could help both in terms of raising funds in a number of different ways as well as creating enormous awareness, and it has done just

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2019

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CHANGE

What was the culmination of the Driven Hearts charity campaign this year?

The official Driven Hearts campaign through BarrettJackson wrapped up with the sale of three vehicles to benefit the cause at our 2018 Las Vegas Auction in late September – and ultimately the 59th annual Phoenix Heart Ball on (Photos courtesy Barrett-Jackson) November 17. My arolyn Jackson, Sen. Jon Kyl. commitment to raise both funds and awareness for the AHA to educate others about heart disease and stroke will actually continue through the 2019 Scottsdale Auction, through the unique platform only Barrett-Jackson can provide.

There will be approximately a dozen vehicles auctioned for charity at the 2019 Scottsdale Auction, including two to benefit important Arizona-based organizations – Barrow Neurological Foundation and Childhelp. BarrettJackson has been a longtime supporter of Childhelp’s Drive the Dream Gala.

2019 marks the 60th anniversary of the organization and this year’s event will be chaired by Dr. Stacie and Richard Stephenson. Other exciting charity vehicles will be the VIN 001 2019 Ford GT Heritage Edition for the United Way, a classic Jeep to benefit the Gary Sinise Foundation and a 2015 Shelby GT350R – one of just 37 made – for the Petersen Museum and Henry Ford Museum. A very thrilling moment is sure to be when the first global production unit of the 2020 Toyota Supra will be auctioned to benefit a very

worthy cause (stay tuned to BarrettJackson.com for details as they become available).

Why do you feel it's important to give back?

The great Martin Luther King once said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” There are so many opportunities to help other people. I’m a firm believer in giving back; it’s something my parents instilled in me from an early age. Taking care of the community in which you live – and work – is as important as taking

care of yourself, so volunteering in the community and becoming engaged in charitable work are high on my priority list and provide much balance in my life.

The Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, 480.421.6694, barrett-jackson. com, various times Saturday, January 12, through Sunday, January 20, $12-$195.

What can you tell me about the cars that will be up for charity auction this year?

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THE AFTERNOON

STAR Shirley MacLaine says honesty is the remedy to the nation’s problems

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

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hirley MacLaine quickly announces herself.

“Hi! This is Shirley. I hope I’m not 2 minutes late, but I am,” she says followed by a hearty laugh.

MacLaine is personable, funny and honest. Fans can expect the same when the Oscar-winning actress, dancer and best-selling author comes to the Chandler Center for the Arts for An Afternoon with Shirley MacLaine on Sunday, February 10. She will share a montage of memorable film moments and private revelations about her life, career and spiritual journey. The sister of actor Warren Beatty, MacLaine will open the stage to questions as well.

A longtime outspoken advocate for civil rights and liberties, women’s rights and spiritual understanding, MacLaine can guarantee she’ll be honest.

“I love to know what the audience is interested in at these things,” MacLaine says via telephone from her ranch in New Mexico. “I love the spontaneity of it all. I don’t care to know anything in advance.

Whatever anybody wants to talk about is fine with me.”

MacLaine started making these appearances about a year ago and has been pleasantly surprised about the outcome.

“They were more interested in my books than Hollywood,” she says sounding exasperated. “I think people are looking for answers that are above and beyond what we learn in school. They look to the ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

otherness of it all. as familial. She enjoys the crew’s work “I think they appreciate my honest ethic and creativity. about the truth of other realities. I think “I love the whole idea of knowing these they know I tell the truth, at least as I see people really well,” she adds. “We’re it. It’s not like I’m making anything up. usually together for months; sometimes It tells me they’re in good stead, I think. with these independent films it’s less I think they look at my life and I’m still because there’s less money. Everybody is really working and creative and all that. learning what to do with creativity at the Maybe they think this stuff works.” same time it demands efficiency.”

In light of political and social divide, MacLaine is concerned about the movie MacLaine says she feels her honesty – and industry’s state after the horrific wildfires honesty in general – is what America that plagued California. She said many needs. of the crew members lived in the area hit “I think we’re going through an awful hardest by the disaster. The sheriff near lot of study and self-investigation, really,” MacLaine’s California home even told her she adds. “Many to evacuate. relationships are “He said, ‘You’re “PEOPLE NEED TO BE breaking up about out of here. That’s REMINDED THEY ARE it,’” she recalls. “I what’s going on in Washington. Nobody THE CREATION OF said, ‘Where am I knows what to make THEIR OWN REALITY.” going?’ He said, ‘I of it. Maybe it’s a don’t know. Just go.’ good idea to shake things up, but I think I did. I haven’t been back since. truth would be better than lies.”

“It made my heart break,” she says after Don’t get MacLaine wrong, she is still a long pause. “To drive through PCH acting. She has three movies slated for (Pacific Coast Highway) with flames on 2019, she says vaguely. One is Noelle, a either side of the car (was terrible). My Christmas comedy also starring Anna dogs have learned how to open the back Kendrick and Bill Hader, slated for release doors of my rented car. They wanted to go around Thanksgiving. out and play in the fire. A trip down PCH “I do know I’m getting most of the good that usually takes 45 minutes took four old people roles because I’m still working,” and a half hours.” she says. “Everyone else is retired or gone She hasn’t returned to her home because or something. I’m kind of around and PCH is closed and the air is less than these parts are wonderful. There’s so much desirable. She likens the subsequent rain wisdom and time and experience and and mudslides to a crime. humor. It really works for me to have been “It’s so tragic for so many,” MacLaine around this long.” says. “It’s climate change personified.

MacLaine describes the filming process When you have rain on top of that, and

Jerry Brown, the governor, speaking the truth – ‘It’s just the beginning. We need to stick together’ – whoa, he’s right. Alright, what does this really mean?”

She’s looking forward to fans at the Chandler Center for the Arts to lighten her mood with fun and interesting questions and comments.

“One of the things I enjoy most are these live shows,” she says. “I learn so much about what’s happening in the culture by doing these. It’s very stimulating for me. I love not knowing what the questions are going to be or what’s going to happen. I love the lack of planning.

“I like to know what it is they like about me, what it is they get from the books or the parts. Sometimes even I forget what I’ve done, but they don’t seem to. There’s a whole relationship going on between people who make theatricality real and the audience. Shakespeare was right. We’re all just strutting our stuff on our own little stages. We’re creating the writing, the wardrobe, the makeup, the attitude, the lines, the things we care about. We’re creating it all. People need to be reminded they are the creation of their own reality.”

An Afternoon with Shirley MacLaine

Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Avenue, Chandler, 480.782.2680, chandlercenter.org, 3 p.m. Sunday, February 10, $48-$68.

eggstasy breakfast • lunch • mimosas

e1 6990 e shea blvd scottsdale 480.500.5889 • e2 10155 e via linda scottsdale ranch 480.993.3449 e3 20775 n pima rd scottsdale 480.219.8344 • www.eggstasyaz.com

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UNBRIDLED ENTHUSIASM The Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show draws the best from around the world

Sherry Jackson >> The Entertainer!

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he clopping of hooves and the neighs of 2,400 majestic Arabian horses will take over WestWorld of Scottsdale in February with the 64th annual Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show.

Billed as “the greatest horse show on Earth,” the bay, gray, chestnut, black and roan horses will take center stage Thursday, February 14, to Sunday, February 24.

With more than 300,000 people expected to attend, it’s the largest horse show in the world. The unofficial kickoff to the Arabian horse competition season, it’s also considered to be the premier horse event, drawing people and horses from all over the world. Breeders, trainers and owners come to see the newest babies and hot new stallions and to get a feel for the competition.

“A win at Scottsdale is pretty prestigious. It’s a very significant event in the equine world in general,” says Taryl O’ Shea, executive director, Arabian Horse Association of Arizona. “People will fly horses in from places like Italy and we’re expecting some big-name horses,

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including some from the royal families.”

More than 1,000 competitions will be held over the 11 days, ranging from ranch horse riding to dressage to Western and English pleasure, horsemanship, side saddle and mounted native costume.

Horses compete in six competition arenas with a full schedule each day. The first weekend of the event is primarily dedicated to youth competitions and the last weekend is more of the championship events including Liberty, where horses run to music. It’s the culmination of the best of the best and typically sells out,” O’Shea says.

The event will cater to all and there’s plenty for nonhorse enthusiasts, too.

More than 350 vendors will be in the Shopping Expo, providing everything from fine art to jewelry to clothing and, of course, all things equine. Attendees can learn more about Arabian horses at one of the seminars and educational events. A behind-the-scenes barn tour will provide a sneak peek to see what it takes to get the horses ready for competition and meet horses and their trainers.

Pony rides are available for the kids.

“There’s truly something for everyone,” O’Shea says.

The association will also hold a children’s art contest for kindergarten through sixth grade and an amateur photography contest. Of course, both need to feature Arabian horses.

Plenty of food options will be available with more than 50 different vendors. “Last year we introduced food truck row with lobster rolls and Chinese food and that will be back,” O’Shea says. “We try to bring in a really good selection and offer good, quality food.”

But make no mistake; it’s still all about the horses, and competition can be fierce.

Some of the horse competitions will have elimination rounds to make it to the final championship. Not only are owners and trainers hoping for the prestige of winning, but prize money can be as much as $31,000.

With approximately 70 percent of attendees coming from outside the area, the economic impact is huge – more than $60 million – based on a study done several years ago, O’Shea says. Most owners and trainers who bring horses in for the competition are here for 16 days or longer to allow the horses to acclimate, get

familiar with the grounds and practice in the arenas. Hotels, restaurants and services all benefit from the annual show.

Arabian horses have been popular in Scottsdale since the early 1950s when prominent families such as the Chaunceys, Gaineys and Wrigleys brought Arabian horses to the area for their ranches. Shows were first held at the former Casa Blanca Inn and on the grounds of the Arizona Biltmore Hotel.

Since 1989, the show has been held at WestWorld of Scottsdale and has grown from 50 to more than 2,400 horses.

The event brings top owners, trainers and breeders from around the world competing for a chance at winning. A win at Scottsdale can mean big money in the breeding barns.

“The Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show is known as the mecca for the Arabian horse,” O’Shea says. “The horse show has been so impactful, many people have relocated to the area because of the show being here and some of the best breeding farms in the world are located in Scottsdale.”

Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, 480.515.1500, scottsdaleshow. com, various times Thursday, February 14, to Sunday, February 24, $10 per day, with senior and military discounts.

‘THE CHERRY ON TOP’

Nashville’s top acts fly high at the Birds Nest

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

C

ountry music and the Coors Light Birds Nest are fast friends, and this year’s chairman, Michael Golding, wasn’t about to put a wedge in it.

Nashville’s best takes the stage two of the four days at the Waste Management Phoenix Open concert series. Reigning ACM Vocal Group of the Year Old Dominion, Midland and Brandon Lay kick off the festivities on Wednesday, January 30, with Jake Owen, Lee Brice and Michael Ray on Thursday, January 31.

The last two days stretch outside

of country’s boundaries with the Chainsmokers and Snoop Dogg playing a sold-out show on Friday, February 1, and Martin Garrix, DJ Vice and Justin Mylo on Saturday, February 2.

“Country music is a big hit in the Valley and country performers are a lot of fun to work with,” says Golding, this year’s Birds Nest chairman.

“The Birds Nest has a great reputation in Nashville. In my opinion, Old Dominion, Midland, Jake Owen, Lee Brice, Michael Ray and Brandon Lay represent the best of country music right now. We

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2019

17

were lucky to get them signed. It’s a great start to the Birds Nest.”

Old Dominion singer Matthew Ramsey vouches for Golding’s statement. Word has traveled to Nashville about the Birds Nest. His guitarist, Brad Tursi, and drummer, Whit Sellers, are big golfers and hoping to get in a few holes.

Lay wants to give it a shot himself, even though he hasn’t hit the greens too often.

“We talked to some friends out there and they had good spots to go for a beginner, like myself,” he says. “I have so many hobbies. I’m sure my wife would like me to have another one. I figured I’d give it a swing while we’re out there.”

Lay and Ramsey, both of whom have new music ready for this year, are looking forward to sharing a stage again, as they spent the

makes it this much sweeter.”

What’s making this year’s Birds Nest sweet for Golding is the inclusion of Snoop Dogg.

“Growing up, Snoop Dogg was a favorite of mine, and a favorite of many people and a lot of Thunderbirds,” he says about the nonprofit organization formed in 1986 to distribute monies raised through the Waste Management Phoenix Open golf tournament and the Birds Nest. The Thunderbirds host the tournament.

“We worked with his team and it took some time, but we got him.

He’s one of the best acts we’ve ever had. He resonates very well with the age range and for what the Valley is looking for in the Birds Nest acts.”

The most important bit, though, is the money the concert series brings in for charity.

summer on Kenny Chesney’s Trip Around the Sun Tour.

“We’ve done a lot of shows with Old Dominion and this is just the cherry on top,” Lay says. “They have a party crowd following them around, and we can make new fans based on their audience. At the Birds Nest, I’ll try to warm up the crowd right with some ‘Yada, Yada, Yada’ and ‘Speakers, Bleachers and Preachers’ and people will have a good time.

“Arizona has been a good honey hole for us. Anytime we get out there, we appreciate the love. This time of year, the cold in Nashville

“That’s our job and the best part of being in the Thunderbirds organization,” he says. “We see where the dollars go.”

The Coors Light Birds Nest is located directly across from the main Waste Management Phoenix Open tournament entrance at 82nd Street and Bell Road, Scottsdale, coorslightbirdsnest.com, 3:30 to 10:30 p.m. Wednesday, January 30, to Saturday, February 2, $65-$120.

ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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CITY

STYLE » ENVY » PASSION » FASHION » BEAUTY » DESIGN

A Legend in the Making Todd LeDuc hopes to leave his mark on Monster Jam Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

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onster Energy truck driver Todd LeDuc is hoping to celebrate more than his birthday in mid-January. The three-year Peoria resident is looking for a win at State Farm Stadium’s Monster Jam on Saturday, January 19.

“It’ll be fun to have a victory in front of my family,” LeDuc says enthusiastically.

The married father of 3-year-old and 5-yearold sons has been driving the Monster Energy truck around the world for three years.

Earlier this year, on the European tour, he set world records for jumping over the most trucks in Germany and Amsterdam.

“That was cool to do,” he says. “I have two young boys and I’m living the dream by traveling the world, too. It can’t get any better than that.”

Family is important to LeDuc. His career was a logical choice, considering his father is Curt LeDuc, a legendary off-road racer.

LeDuc won his first competition in 1984 at age 5 when he raced his

plastic Big Wheel tricycle to victory in front of thousands of fans during an exhibition at one of his father’s off-road races in Canada.

In 1998, Todd started racing downhill mountain bikes and eventually won three California state championships. As a pro, he

won two more and a national pro men’s downhill championship.

His motorsports career began in 2005 when he started co-driving with his father in his full-size class 8 truck in desert races. Again, the LeDucs prevailed, this time in the Best in the Desert racing series.

Now he’s driving monster trucks and having tableside smack talk with his family.

“We were all very competitive and pushing each other when we were growing up,” says LeDuc, whose family has been approached to do reality shows. “It’s carried over into sports I’ve done.

I live for it. It’s a weird fix.

It’s something that keeps me getting up in the morning and pushing myself out of my comfort zone.

“My brother and I have so much competition between us. Like at Thanksgiving dinner, we’d needle each other and say, ‘I had 14 wins. You only had 12.’ Stuff like that. It’s so much fun looking back. It used to be so aggravating. It’s pushed us to the level we’re at in our careers.”

LeDuc, whose nickname is Malo Sapo (the “mean toad”), says he is grateful for the level at which he competes. Touring the world has opened his mind to other cultures, and the importance of tolerance and appreciation.

“The whole world is a pretty cool place,” he adds. “To see the different architecture and different cultures – like going to China for the first time – was amazing.

“I’m excited to see if we’re going to make some new stops this year and add stamps to my passport.”

He’s just as happy in the Valley, where he enjoys the close proximity to California, Las Vegas and Flagstaff.

“I love exploring this area,” LeDuc explains.

“That’s one of the most fun parts about moving to a new city. I love maybe going to Out of Africa and up to Sedona, and taking my RZR out and going up to Crown King.

It’s especially fun having kids. My 5-year-old is going to school. We practice his letters and words every day. It’s so much fun. Passing on knowledge to your kids is really cool.”

LeDuc wants more than his children to look up to him. He wants to be a legend like Tom Meents of Maximum Destruction.

“When people talk about monster trucks, I want them to talk about me,” he says. “I want to keep traveling the world and keep winning more championships and doing what I can for the fans of Monster Jam. Knock on wood, I hope my kids would drive, also.”

Monster Jam State Farm Stadium, 1 Cardinals Drive, Glendale, 602.379.0102, statefarmstadium.com, 7 p.m. Saturday, January 19, tickets start at $15.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2019

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GALWAY GUYS

We Banjo 3 twist Americana and Celtic music into ‘Celtgrass’ Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

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alway, Ireland’s We Banjo 3 has found common ground between the musicians’ loves – Celtic and Americana music.

Call it “Celtgrass.”

“We were all banjo players who were inspired by traditional Irish culture and music,” says David Howley, who is joined in the band by Enda and Fergal Scahill, and Martin Howley.

“Irish and Celtic music has had a lot of influence on genres around the world, like country, bluegrass and even American folk music. Our sound represents a crosspollination with bluegrass. Irish music includes a huge amount of energy, while bluegrass has incredible instrumental pyrotechnics.

‘Celtgrass’ means the blending of the drive of Irish music and the instrumental style of bluegrass along with the heart and soul of folk music.”

These brothers are among the most celebrated and distinguished musicians from their country. Martin Howley is

a seven-time “All Ireland” banjo and mandolin champion. A “banjo wizard,” Enda Scahill, an author on Irish banjo techniques, holds four “All Ireland” titles.

Multi-instrumentalist Fergal Scahill is one of the most acclaimed fiddlers in Irish music, with a growing international reputation, and “All Ireland” titles on fiddle and bodhran.

David Howley, with “All-Ireland” titles on guitar and banjo, is the group’s vocalist and guitarist known for his showmanship and deeply emotive vocals. The Howleys live in Nashville.

We Banjo 3’s debut album, Roots of the Banjo Tree, was released in 2012, followed by Gather the Good in 2014; String Theory, which climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard bluegrass chart in 2016; and its most recent CD, Haven, was released last summer.

Haven, which won best folk album at the inaugural RTE Radio 1 Folk Awards, is We Banjo 3’s fourth studio album, and fifth overall. It marks the first time the band recorded in America.

“Each of us, individually, have had

interesting musical careers up to this point,” Howley says. “I live in Nashville and I spend a lot of time writing music and hanging out with different musicians.

“Last week, I sat around with Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. Martin was the first Irish banjo player to play the Grand Ol’ Opry. Fergal is a world-renowned fiddler. Separately, he’s famous for playing and recording a fiddle tune for every single day of the year for social media (in 2017). He has a massive following because of this.”

Throughout We Banjo 3’s journey, the musicians have spent time with Mumford and Sons and Old Crow Medicine Show.

“We’ve just become part of this sphere,” Howley says. “What’s really cool is we have a mutual admiration for what each other does.”

Fans will have the chance to hear We Banjo 3’s “Celtgrass” sound when it comes to the Chandler Center for the Arts on Friday, February 1. Howley describes the show as inclusive.

“The show is about being real with

the audience,” he says. “We don’t take ourselves very seriously. We have fun and laugh. We create a space for people to come to a show and maybe forget the things that happened that week.

“For two hours, we want you to have a great time and sing along with songs you may have never heard before.

We teach people to enjoy the show as they go, and connect with the people around you. Music is the great language everybody understands. When you get a bunch of people in the room together and put aside all the political or social things that are going on, everybody goes back to being a human. I really enjoy that.”

We Banjo 3 Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Avenue, Chandler, 480.782.2680, chandlercenter.org, 7:30 p.m.

Friday, February 1, $26-$38.

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WORKING CLASS HERO LEE PERREIRA IS LIVING HIS MUSICAL DREAM AT HOME IN PHOENIX

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ee Perreira says he’s “just a worker.”

Perreira puts his head down and goes to work, playing restaurants, bars and clubs around town, sharing his classic blues riffs and soulfully textured vocal styles.

But Perreira isn’t as simple as that.

The Phoenix musician, who recently released the album What’s that Gotta Do with My Dreams?, has opened for and performed with Buddy Guy. He opened for James Bay, and has shared the night with acts like Foo Fighters, Gary Clark Jr., Train, The Fray, INXS and Journey. Perreira’s album is on rotation at more than 100 U.S. radio stations.

“I’m really happy with what I’ve done,” he says. ‘I’ve been working my butt off, too, to get even further.

Buddy Guy was the coolest moment so far. I received a standing ovation and I got to play with him during his set.”

Perreira adds he kept his cool with Guy, saying he doesn’t get nervous. He compares it to running a marathon this time last year.

“I thought, ‘Holy crap. Those feet right there ran 26 miles,” Perreira says. “Stuff always hits me later.”

Music is a longtime passion for Perreira. He began playing guitar at age 12 as a preteen in Long Beach, California, and he found his voice at 17 as a “Nirvana/ Pearl Jam kid” when he moved to the Valley. A regularly performing musician, he averages over 300 events per year nationally.

Perreira, 36, who attended Apollo High School in Glendale, appreciates fans who say they enjoy his blend of genres, but, he adds, people either love it or hate it.

“I was in my 20s playing for A&R guys and they said, ‘We don’t know what genre you are.

We don’t know what to do with you.’

“I just embrace it. I think, over the years, ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

I’ve been blessed enough to have a journey that has led me to be a singer-songwriter and a full-band rock ‘n’ roll frontman. I enjoy expressing both sides of it. I’m blessed I get to play with awesome musicians who push me to be better.”

He was also inspired by his time at Phoenix College, where he studied music. Perreira is returning to the school at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, January 23, for a concert/lecture in Sessions Recital Hall.

“I learned what it was like to be a professional,” he says about Phoenix

College. “I reached out to the department chairman, Karl Schindler, and asked if I could speak.

“When I was a student there, I would go to so many performances.

It provided an opportunity for me to see some cool, funky jazz fusion shows. They would take questions from students. I volunteered to do that. It changed my life 10 years ago.

They rarely have singer-songwriters come back with success stories, let alone come back at all. They’re really excited.”

Schindler says he remembers Perreira even though he was a student about 10 years ago.

“He was older than the typical student. He had already been playing and performing. He came to Phoenix College because he wanted to become a technically better player. He was really great.

He didn’t come in here like, ‘I know how to do stuff.’ He had a great attitude wanting to learn as much as could.

“As we’ve talked, he said he had such a transformative experience.

He’s had a successful time of being a gigging musician, playing all over, since he left. Even though our college program was designed not necessarily for popular music and performing, he had success at that.

We always like having people talk to students about how they’ve been successful. He looks at it as he’s giving back to PC.” Perreira, whose goal is to be enshrined in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, is happy where he is for now. With 90 to 100 unrecorded songs, he enjoys playing original songs and covers.

He’s hoping to release a handful of singles this year.

“It’s great for everybody,” he adds about playing covers. “I’m getting paid to get better and practice my craft. It’s opened me up a lot to why things are important.

“I learned a bunch of covers 10 years ago. Now I know 300 covers and 100-plus originals. I’ve learned from so many people. That’s my other goal – to be the best musician and songwriter I can be and take it as far as it can go.”

Lee Perreira Trio The Rhythm Room, 1019 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, rhythmroom.com, 8 p.m. Tuesday, January 8, $8 at the door.

Lee Perreira Phoenix College, 1202 W. Thomas Road, Phoenix, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, January 23, to RSVP and for a list of other shows, visit leeperreira.com

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2019

21

RESPECT THE FANS RESPECT THE PLAYERS RESPECT THE GAME

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THE DOWNTOWNER

HIP » AMBASSADORS » MUSEUMS » PRO SPORTS » HIGHRISES

TOP10

Carson Mlnarik >> The Entertainer!

The Music Man

JANUARY 5 TO JANUARY 27 Since 1957, this Tony Award winner has been tickling audiences with the tale of Harold Hill, a con artist who rides into Iowa one summer and changes the town’s lives with humor, romance and music. From “Ya Got Trouble” to “Seventy-Six Trombones,” this is a musical theater experience for the whole family.

Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe Street, 602.252.8497, herbergertheater. org, times vary, $25-$86.

Zeppelin USA

JANUARY 12 While you won’t find Jimmy Page, Robert Plant, John Paul Jones and John Bonham together on stage, you can see the next best thing with tribute band, Zeppelin USA. From “Stairway to Heaven” to “Immigrant Song,” the group has diehard fans raving. Bad Company tribute The Bad Co. Experience will get the crowd warmed up.

The Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren Street, 480.659.1641, thevanburenphx.com, 8 p.m., $23-$42.

8123 Fest

JANUARY 18 TO JANUARY 20 The love for Arizona’s resident emo-pop-punk group The Maine is so real the band’s annual music festival has had to upgrade to a public park. On Friday, join the group for a concert curated by audience requests and then again on Saturday for a straight-through performance of its album Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop.

Still haven’t had your fill? Attend a meet and greet on Sunday.

Civic Space Park, 424 N. Central Avenue, 602.262.7490, thevanburenphx.com, various times, $45-$150.

Jim Norton

JANUARY 11 TO JANUARY 12 From Netflix to Hulu to Amazon to HBO, stand-up comedian Jim Norton has been around screens.

Known for his self-deprecating and, at times, cringeworthy satire, Norton also hosts The Jim Norton and Sam Roberts Show on SiriusXM and is behind UFC’s Unfiltered podcast. He takes on Phoenix for two nights.

Stand Up Live, 50 W. Jefferson Street, 480.719.6100, phoenix. standuplive.com, $27.

spectators an exciting, musical racing experience. From country to rock to some throwback tunes, all genres are represented throughout the various races but the alternative group Plain White T’s — of “Hey There Delilah” fame — will headline the finish line show.

Arizona Center, Van Buren Street and Second Street, Phoenix, 800.311.1255, runrocknroll.com, $103 for half-marathon, $132 marathon and other race prices vary.

WWE Royal Rumble Marathon JANUARY 24 TO JANUARY 28 For the first time, WWE’s Royal Rumble Marathon will take place in a baseball stadium. Phoenix hosts the annual popular pay-per-view event that features men’s and women’s royal rumble matches. Hardcore WWE fans can spring for the Axxess ticket, which gains them meet and greets and photo opportunities at the Phoenix Convention Center.

Multiple Downtown Phoenix venues including Chase Field, Talking Stick Resort Arena and Phoenix Convention Center, 602.514.8400, bit.ly/2EuYVgw, times vary, $20-$727.

JANUARY 19 AND JANUARY 20 No headphones required for this marathon that features live music, DJs and speakers along its entire course, giving runners and

JANUARY 26 Did you miss Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton when it came through ASU Gammage last year? Catch up on the show-stopping tunes with this special musical revue of Hamilton’s Tony Award-winning hip-hop soundtrack. If the urge to jam along is too much, you might want to opt for the special sing-along matinee.

The Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren Street, 480.659.1641, thevanburenphx.com, 2 p.m. singalong and 8 p.m. regular, $23-$42.

Grand Wine Festival

JANUARY 26 AND JANUARY 27 Nothing brings people together like a good red or white! Case in point: More than 30 Arizona wineries will pour 200 wines as guests take in live music, food trucks and vendors at the Grand Wine Festival.

Winners of the Arizona Wine Competition will be announced, and attendees can choose between six, 10 or 15 tasting ticket options, depending on their thirst.

Heritage Square Park, 113 N. Sixth Street, 520.797.3959, azwinefestivals.com, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, $15 admission only, $25-$45 admission with tasting tickets.

Legally Blonde the Musical

Brunch Bash

Rock ’n’ Roll Marathon

History Has Its Eyes on You: A Hamilton Music Revue

JANUARY 26 If you’re gonna mix your breakfast with your lunch, you might as well make it count… or so that’s the thought at this downtown Phoenix event that dares attendees to “brunch so hard!” With eggs benedict, a cereal bar, pancakes, waffles and mimosas galore, you can burn it off with beach games and music before going back for seconds!

CityScape Phoenix, 1 E. Washington Street, 602.772.3900, brunchbashaz. com, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., $8-$100.

JANUARY 25 TO JANUARY 27 Ohmigod you guys…the Broadway musical based on the beloved Reese Witherspoon movie is making a stop in town! Don’t go to the mall, grab your gals and get on over for this toe-tapping, heartwarming tale about Elle Woods, who defies her “dumb blonde” persona and gets into Harvard Law, showing everyone who she really is.

There’s even a song named after her patented “Bend and Snap!”

Orpheum Theatre, 203 W. Adams Street, 602.262.6225, phoenix.ticketforce.com, times vary, $30.25-$85.25.

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

THE ‘F’ WORD Daniel Bryan says there’s nothing fake about the energy at WWE shows

W

WE Superstar Bryan Danielson. “I love wrestling in Phoenix, Daniel Bryan doesn’t but I also love being close to where I live, where do much tentatively.

I can just wake up, get out of bed, spend the He’s confident morning with my daughter and then drive to when he enters the the show.” ring. But when he took batting practice with Bryan has climbed the ranks the Arizona Diamondbacks during the waning during his nearly 20 years moments of the season, he was nervous. in the sport. However, He didn’t think he would connect with the he has been injured ball, but much to his surprise, he cranked one on and off since May out of the park.

2014. He retired from When Bryan returns to Chase Field it’ll professional wrestling be on his terms. The Royal Rumble rolls into in February 2016, town Sunday, January 27, with ancillary events due to medical issues, like NXT Takeover (Saturday, January 26), including seizures, Monday Night Raw (Monday, January 28) and from concussions. That SmackDown Live (Tuesday, January 29). Started summer, he became in 1988, the Royal Rumble happens every the SmackDown January and features 30 to 40 wrestlers entering general the ring at timed intervals. It’s considered one of manager. the WWE’s four top events with Wrestlemania, Summer Slam and Survivor Series and will be streamed worldwide on the WWE Network.

“The WWE’s big events are unlike any other type of event you go to, whether it be a rock concert, baseball game or football game,” Bryan says near the Arizona Diamondbacks’ dugout after batting practice.

“WWE shows have a unique atmosphere.

Everybody is so emotionally invested. Whether or not you like it, the music hits and until the show ends everyone enjoys it. One of the things that’s great about our big shows is you feel that solidarity with people. My sister isn’t a huge wrestling fan, but she loves coming to the shows. We get the ‘F’ word a lot. Fake. Until you experience it, you get caught up in the same way you get caught up with a fictional TV show.

That’s the same thing.”

Known for his beard and shouting “Yes!” during his monologues, SmackDown’s Bryan is excited to bring one of the WWE’s signature events home. He and wife Brie Bella have been splitting time between Phoenix’s Arcadia area On and California with their baby, Birdie, due to March Brie’s reality shows.

20, 2018, “I’m excited because we’re actually going he was to be living in Phoenix at the time,” says the cleared TLR046_ENTERTAINER_AD_9.25x1.5_FINAL.qxp_Layout 1 12/7/18 1:37 PM Page 10 Washington-raised Bryan, whose real name is to return

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

to in-ring competition, just in time for Wrestlemania. His retirement and return speeches were moving – and written by Bryan, instead of the WWE’s creative department.

“For my retirement speech and the speech I came back with, those were just me,” he says. “It was just free-flowing thoughts. With my retirement speech, I was in a very negative state of mind and I didn’t want to express that. If I was never going to wrestle again, I wanted it to be because I’m very grateful about my career, my life and the amazing things I was able to do because of wrestling.

“For the past 16 years, I didn’t have to work a ‘real job.’ My last real job was at a

video store/ tanning salon.

They don’t even have video stores anymore. I wanted to express what I was really trying to focus on

and push the negativity aside.”

Bryan doesn’t want his injuries to return, so he regularly spends time on his rehab exercises and in hyperbaric chambers.

“I’m big into brain function now because of my issues,” he says.

He really enjoys watching fans’ reaction to his trademark shout “Yes!” with his index fingers in the air. Bryan says it’s surreal to see arenas and stadiums full of people imitate him.

“I’ve wrestled in front of 17 people, 45 people or whatever,” Bryan says. “I’d be in the ring and I could hear someone say to his buddy, ‘These guys aren’t very good, are they?’ It’s just demoralizing.

“When I come here (to Chase Field), maybe 40,000 people are going to be here. They’ll all be chanting ‘Yes!’ in unison. It almost feels like I have this out-of-body experience where I’m looking down and I’m like, ‘Is this really my life?’ It’s almost like we’re a singular organism all doing it in unison.”

He also loves the quiet of home and everything Arizona has to offer.

“I love Camelback Mountain,” he says. “I love the restaurants here. This is a great foodie city. It’s lowkey. People don’t even know. That’s the great part. People aren’t coming here for food. Most people come here for the nice weather, the golf courses or whatever. They then discover the food is awesome.

“I love being here during the monsoon season, though. When the rains come out, just the fresh smell of the desert is unlike anything else.”

While he was at Chase Field, he befriended fellow bearded wonder, Diamondbacks reliever Archie Bradley.

“We’re fortunate because we get to go around and meet these incredible people and incredibly skilled people,” Bryan says about his career.

“He’s an amazing pitcher and to be able to come here, hang out with him and exchange beard tips was a lot of fun.

“We have different styles of beards, though.

His is very coiffed. Mine is a bit wilder. One of the best things was he took me to the team barber and had a trim,” he adds, rubbing his beard. “This is why I have hair all over me.”

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25

Royal Rumble weekend

"WHETHER OR NOT YOU LIKE IT, THE MUSIC HITS AND UNTIL THE SHOW ENDS

EVERYONE ENJOYS IT."

Royal Rumble is more than just a one-day event. It is a week-long celebration. In addition to Royal Rumble, other events include: three live events taking place at Talking Stick Resort Arena, including NXT TakeOver, Monday Night Raw and SmackDown Live.

■ Royal Rumble Axxess, WWE’s interactive fan festival, kicks off the festivities at the Phoenix Convention Center Friday, January 25, and runs through Sunday, January 27.

■ NXT Takeover is 4:15 p.m.

Saturday, January 26, featuring champion Tommaso Ciampa, Johnny Gargano and many other athletes.

■ It continues with the 30- to 40-person Royal Rumble on Sunday, January 27 at Chase Field.

Other matches will be announced soon.

■ Monday Night Raw goes live on the USA Network East Coast at 5:30 p.m. Monday, January 28, with chances to see Baron Corbin, Braun Strowman, Drew McIntyre and Phoenician Dolph Ziggler.

■ AJ Styles, Daniel Bryan, Randy Orton, The Miz, Rey Mysterio, Charlotte Flair, Becky Lynch and The New Day are slated to appear at SmackDown Live! starting at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, January 29.

For tickets to any of the events, visit ticketmaster.com or call 1.800.745.3000.

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

PLEASANT SURPRISE ‘Upside Down Flowers’ crept up on Andrew McMahon Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

A

ndrew McMahon had a rare moment to relax and reflect when something magical happened: His latest album Upside Down Flowers.

“I was coming home from an insane three- or four-year process of writing and recording and touring the first two albums,” he says about the Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness releases.

“I didn’t anticipate jumping into a new album or music. When I got to the end of last year, I had a good collection of songs.”

McMahon says Upside Down Flowers makes a strong musical and lyrical statement about his transformative journey. The album’s 11 songs are vignettes animated

by McMahon’s vivid lyrics and dynamic melodies. He recruited one-time Marvelous 3 singerguitarist Butch Walker to produce the record and play drums, bass and guitar. Roger Joseph Manning Jr. of Jellyfish and Imperial Drag was the guest keyboardist.

“Butch and I have roots in similar scenes, as far as the second act of his career was concerned,” McMahon says.

“We worked on one project together in 2005. That’s where we met. We’ve always kept tabs on each other and followed each other’s career.

“He’s a great player and a great

spirit and somebody who made the process of bringing these songs to life easier.”

Upside Down Flowers features the first single, “Ohio,” which reached Top 40 at alternative radio; the autobiographical Beatles-esque “Teenage Rockstars,” the escapism of “Blue Vacation” and the album’s latest release “Paper Rain.”

McMahon says he and Walker worked together well, even when there was a difference of opinion.

“The beauty of working with somebody who’s a talented collaborator and artist in his own right is if it didn’t feel like the right thing, it was easy to steer back to something that felt good,” McMahon says about Walker.

“Butch is a lot like me. We want to work fast. Like with ‘Teenage

N !

W U O O T Y N R O W F O G N D AITI IS W

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Rockstars,’ the first production sketch of that was a little bit more of a traditional drum track. I liked the instrumentation, but I said, ‘What if we simplified the drums?’ That’s how we landed on the bombastic kicksnare thing that holds the whole song together.”

McMahon is celebrating the release of Upside Down Flowers with a tour that kicks off at The Van Buren on Wednesday, January 23. A leukemia survivor, McMahon says he was surprised his last Van Buren show sold out.

“That’s one of the bigger rooms I’ve played on my own in Phoenix,” says McMahon, who’s also led Something Corporate and Jack’s Mannequin.

“It’s such a beautiful room and it’s so exciting. Some of my earliest

memories of playing shows were in the Phoenix-Tempe area. Something Corporate played its first out-ofstate show at The Nile. Nobody could figure out how to get the piano through the speakers and Jim Adkins from Jimmy Eat World was at the show and he was the one behind the console who helped pull our gig together. There are a lot of memories in Phoenix.”

Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness w/Flor and Grizfolk The Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren Street, Phoenix thevanburenphx.com 7 p.m. Wednesday, January 23 $32.50-$35.

DOWNTOWN Corner of 2nd Street and Jefferson, Across from Talking Stick Resort Arena Phone #: (602) 261-7625

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We have a chef driving selection of unique sandwiches and appetizers and a salad selection that is amazing!

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9 0 S Q U AR E B L OC KS O F U R B A N B L I S S. DOWNTOWN PHOENIX.

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Meet renowned artists, strol throughout juried fine arts, enjoy sipping fine wines and listening to live music. $3 Admis ion • Held Outdoors • 10am-5pm

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30

TRAVEL

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

Sensational Sonoma

Alison Bailin Batz >> The Entertainer!

The ultimate guide to wine country

D

id you know the true birthplace of California wine is Sonoma, where the first wine-making grapes were planted

by Russian colonists in 1812, and then developed and farmed by the Franciscan mission fathers in the 1820s?

Since then, Sonoma County has grown to more than 425 California wineries.

Today, thanks to daily 90-minute flights from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport directly into the Santa Rosa Airport in the heart of Sonoma Wine Country, it is easier than ever to make the trip up north for a wine country adventure unlike any other. Here is how to taste your way through it all:

Tasting Experiences With more than 700 wineries, where does one begin when it comes to tasting?

A sure bet is to focus on elevated experiences versus big-box winemakers’ basic offerings. Some of the very best include: yet also with sommelier-curated wine fridges. Think rooms with clean, white accents, yet also with flat screens and heavenly feather beds. Not only is there an on-site winery, but the inn also partners with several of the most lauded winemakers in the region to offer private and special VIP tastings – often getting tasting fees totally waved. Oh, and then there is the restaurant, simply called The Farmhouse Inn Restaurant, which boasts the coveted Michelin star rating and makes perhaps the most mouth-watering seasonal sensations of all time. farmhouseinn.com Adventures in Cycling

The Farmhouse Inn Hello, Gorgeous. Somehow, The Farmhouse Inn (a favorite of celebrities) manages to be rustic and romantic, grand and intimate, luxe and laid-back all at the same time. Voted both the 2017 “Best Hotel in Northern California by Conde Nast Traveler and 2018 “Best Hotel in California” by Travel & Leisure, the inn actually got its start thanks to hops – a.k.a. the key ingredient in beer – neither grapes nor wine. In 1911, Italian immigrant Domenico Giovanetti, moved onto a portion of the land that would become Farmhouse Inn to work the land (and work toward his own version of the American dream). Within a few years, he earned enough money to buy 84 acres, the total land area of the Farmhouse Inn today. And though the space went through several iterations over six generations, when Joe and Catherine Bartolomei – a sister and brother team who are direct descendants of Giovanetti – took over the space in 2001, they transformed it into the preeminent wine country paradise.

Think cozy rooms with fireplaces,

Ever been on a bike wine tour?

What about an electric bike wine tour? Adventures in Cycling, a family owned business, offers both types of tours through Sonoma Wine Country.

The more traditional bike wine tours – available daily – take guests anywhere from 5 to 20 miles through wine country, often customizing the tour based on guests’ tastes in wine. There is a big, red wine tour, for example, as well as one focused more on chardonnays and whites. And then, there is the electric bike tour. If unfamiliar, an electric bike has an actual motor (no, it isn’t scary) so that riders can rev up and get a little help on harder hills (or, if they just want to go a litter faster for fun), and cover more ground in the same amount of time. While there are several options, novices should opt for the day tour that takes them to three to five wineries at their own pace. Most tours, including that one, also offer a lunch – and it is far tastier than some of the basic “picnics” offered by other bike outfitters. Think steak, salmon, hummus and dessert. winecountrycyclingtours.com

The Bubble Room at J Winery: If looking for further gourmet experiences in the area, look no further than J Winery, known for both its sparkling wines and its acclaimed “Bubble Room” salon, which offers a five-course tasting menu accompanied with their most popular varietals several days a week. The menu, which was named a top “Food and Wine Experience” in the region by CellarPass, is both organic and almost completely locally sourced. It succeeds in awaking every sense. The winery itself is the brainchild of second-generation winemaker Judy Jordan, whose family owns the nearby Jordan Winery, among the most exclusive brands in California. www.jwine.com Medlock Ames: Located on Bell Mountain, this working eco-friendly ranch offers tours twice daily of their vineyards, olive groves and organic gardens as well as an in-depth look at its state-of-the-art winery and barrel cellar.

Don’t miss its Sauvignon Blanc, Rosé, Pinot Noir or Cabernet Sauvignon. And, if you don’t have time to venture up the mountain, check out their tasting room just down the way, which used to be a biker bar! medlockames.com Iron Horse: Three generations, ranging in age from 23 to 88, live on

this property, all dedicated to estategrown wines and remaining fiercely independent. There are several exclusive tasting experiences available, but a can’tmiss for all levels of wine drinker is its VIP tour and tasting, offered weekdays.

An intimate look behind the scenes of winemaking, the reserve wines they sample on the tour are boutique and some are only available there on property. ironhorsevineyards.com

Gary Farrell Vineyards & Winery: Looking to be inspired? Try the Inspiration Tasting at this awardwinning vineyard. It not only includes six highly rated Pinot Noirs from across the Russian River Valley, but is led by an on-site sommelier who takes the time to show the actual soil, land and history of the area – as well as pairing the wines with delicious small bites. garyfarrellwinery.com Lambert Bridge Winery: Nestled among redwood forested hills and rolling vineyards, Lambert Bridge looks like a scene out of the most romantic of movies.

And the wines live up to the views.

Beyond basic tastings, the experiences onsite range from sampling wines in their barrel room to taking on a flight in their cellar. Our advice: choose the tasting they pair with some of the best cheeses in the world. You will not be sorry. lambertbridge.com

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2019

Viva La Mexico!

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Adventure awaits in Cabo San Lucas Alison Bailin Batz >> The Entertainer!

A

tropical paradise just two hours away? And in the winter? Yes! Cabo San Lucas, nicknamed the “Aquarium of the World,” is not only a quick two-hour flight from the Valley, but one of the top-ranked places to visit in the world in the winter.

One can expect weather in the 70s and 80s, not to mention sandy white beaches, crystal-blue water and lavish resorts.

Cabo San Lucas – often shortened to Cabo in the United States – it is part of the Baja region known as Los Cabos, which also includes San Jose del Cabo.

Like Arizona, Cabo experiences sunshine nearly every day.

And this year, beyond even the sun and beach, there is another reason to visit: Le Blanc Resort Spa Los Cabos.

Only open since the spring, it marks the second Le Blanc Resort – a AAA Five Diamond-awarded brand – in the country. Le Blanc Resort Spa Cancun is Cancun’s toprated all-inclusive resort and among the top all-inclusive hotels in the world, according to TripAdvisor. And much like its sister property, the adults-only Cabo property has spared no detail – or expense – in its accommodations, dining, spa and available tours and activities.

LE BLANC RESORT SPA LOS CABOS TRANSPORTATION Worried about where to go and what to do once you get off the plane? Fear not, Le Blanc has you covered. The hotel’s booking team works with all guests in advance of their trip to book complimentary private transportation both to and from the airport to ensure safe and speedy travel to the resort.

ACCOMMODATIONS Each 374 rooms on property are suites, ranging from 760 to 1,400 square feet, and every one has an ocean view – many with patios and private terraces – as well as HD TVs equipped with Apple TV and Netflix. The suites have oversized bathrooms and soaking tubs with intoxicatingly lovely hand-cut

soaps from local Mexican artisans. The other in-room amenities are similarly extravagant with everything from CHI blow dryers and flatirons to BVLGARI bath products.

FOOD AND DRINK Le Blanc is an all-inclusive resort, and while this can sometimes mean access to a 24-hour buffet and watered-down cocktails (or worse, lukewarm wine in a plastic glass), at Le Blanc it means unlimited access to more than unique 10 bars and restaurants on property – plus 24-hour in-room dining and top-shelf beer, wine and cocktails. Of particular note on the dining side are Lumiere, serving a 10-course tasting menu; Mezze, serving bold, spicy

Lebanese fare; Blanc Asia, serving the best in Japanese, Thai, and Chinese cuisine; and Blanc Ocean, serving fresh seafood and Baja cuisine.

For those serious about pairing great food with equally great drinks, Le Blanc only offers wines that have earned 80 points or more from Wine Spectator and boasts a seemingly endless list of top-shelf spirits including Jack Daniel’s, Johnnie Walker (Red and Black Labels), Grey Goose, Stolichnaya, Bombay Sapphire, Tanqueray and Don Julio.

ACTIVITIES Beyond simply luxuriating at the infinity pool, which overlooks the ocean and has cabanas, beach loungers and a service staff nearly unmatched in

attentiveness, getting out and exploring Cabo is turn-key for guests, as the resort takes care of all logistics. They offer several signature experiences: luxury sunset sails via catamaran; speedboat adventures; snorkeling tours; cultural tours of the more historic areas in the region; shopping tours; and even dolphin encounters and swimming adventures (all available for an additional cost). There are also area experts on-site and available to help design, suggest and plan custom experiences for guests as well.

For more information, visit leblancsparesorts.com.

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ARTS

CULTURE » THEATER » DANCE » GALLERY » DRAMA » VISION

AN ARIZONA MUSIC LEGEND

Francine Reed doesn’t let labels or genres define her Laura Latzko >> The Entertainer!

S

ome musicians have the power to transcend genres.

Local jazz, blues, gospel and R&B singer Francine Reed has proven to have this gift during her illustrious career that has spanned multiple cities and decades.

The local legend will share her vocal talents with Valley fans at the ASU Kerr Cultural Center on Wednesday, January 9. Reed says for her, crossing different genres has come naturally.

“I’ve always been able to sing different music,” Reed says.

“That’s simply because people hire you to do a certain job, and you say, ‘Yes, I can do it,’ and you do it. You never say no as a musician…I listen to different music. What I sing is pretty much what I listen to.”

An Arizona Blues Hall of Fame inductee, Reed is best known for her rendition of Ida Cox’s “Wild Women.”

Her resume is storied, though. She has worked with Willie Nelson, Roy Orbison and Delbert McClinton, and her music was featured on the 1993 film The Firm. For the last 35 years, she has toured and recorded with Lyle Lovett.

“He wants me to be myself. He has always allowed me to do that,” Reed says.

Born in Chicago and raised in Phoenix, Reed sang in church growing up. She came from a musical family, which included seven singers. Her sister, the late Margo Reed, is also an Arizona Blues Hall of Fame inductee. From the mid-1970s to mid-1990s, Reed lived in Phoenix and performed around the Valley with her siblings.

“My family has inspired me,” she says. “That’s my first inspiration

because I’m the baby girl of the family,” Reed says. “We ran the music scene almost. Everywhere you turned around, there was a Reed playing somewhere. People here were very kind to us. They embraced us, and they gave us jobs.”

Singing always came naturally to her.

“I have this gift and this talent, and I love sharing it with audiences or with anyone who wants me to open my mouth and sing,” Reed says.

She has four children and, while she was raising them, she took any singing job she could to support them, often working six to seven nights a week.

“I had to sing everywhere I could.

I never said no to a gig,” Reed says.

Reed recently moved back to Phoenix from Atlanta, where she lived and worked for over 20 years, to take care of her son. Since her return, she has performed at The Nash, the Mesa Arts Center and the Rhythm Room. Reed says the music scene has changed a lot, but her longtime fans keep her going.

“As long as I can live, breath and open my mouth and sing a song, I will. As long as people want to hear me, I will hopefully always be able to give them what they want,” Reed says.

Francine Reed

ASU Kerr Cultural Center, 6110 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.596.2660, asukerr.com, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, January 9, $28-$39, $10 for ASU students, faculty and staff.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2019

ARTS

CALENDAR

By Randy Montgomery >> The Entertainer!

- Center Stage, 222 E. Monroe Street, Phoenix, 602.256.6995, arizonatheatre. org, times vary, $25-$96.

Embassy in Tehran. The play imagines what happened when a mother of a 19year old Marine, who was held hostage, travels overseas to see her son, and the consequences when she returns home.

Presented by iTheatre Collaborative.

Herberger Theater Center - Kax Stage, 222 E. Monroe Street, Phoenix, times vary, $12.- $25.

Chinese New Year

It’s Not You, It’s Me

JANUARY 2 TO JANUARY 20 Get a jump on Valentine’s Day by celebrating with the talented troupe from Second City, whose alumni include Tina Fey, Gilda Radner and Bill Murray. This traveling show takes a shot at heartbreak, missed connections, and the mire of human relationships during an improvised adventure into the modern dating scene.

Phoenix Theatre, 1825 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, 602.254.2151, phoenixtheatre. com, times vary, $36-$86.

JANUARY 6 The Arizona Art Academy hosts a Year of the Boar celebration. The Chinese New Year’s show will highlight cultural performances filled with dance, vocals and orchestra music. Professional Chinese acrobats will also take the stage and demonstrate their artistry.

Mesa Arts Center, Ikeda Theater, 1 E. Main Street, Mesa, 480.644.6500, mesaartscenter. com, 7 p.m., $25-$35.

JANUARY 5 TO JANUARY 27 “This quintessential American musical connects us to our communities in fresh and imaginative ways,” says David Ivers, Arizona Theatre Company’s artistic director. This sixtime Tony Award winning musical, which features music and lyrics by Meredith Willson, is the story of Harold Hill, a con artist who rolls into River City during a hot Iowa summer. While swindling the townsfolk, he must seduce the only person smart enough to see through his scam. Presented

by Arizona Theatre Company.

Herberger Theater Center

Bialystock and Leopold Bloom look to make a fortune by raising millions of dollars from investors for a show they know will fail. On opening night, they will take off with the money – or so they think. The Mel Brooks classic has been a favorite on the stage and on the big screen. Recommended for audiences 18 and older due to adult language and themes.

Fountain Hills Theater Mainstage, 11445 N. Saguaro Boulevard, 480.837.9661, ext. 3, fhtaz. org, times vary, $12-$30.

Chandler Symphony Classical Series: Classic Superheroes JANUARY 27 Each Chandler Symphony Orchestra performance will feature a guest conductor, as the founder and musical director is retiring. At the end of the season, a permanent conductor will be chosen. At this show, John Massaro will lead the orchestra with selections from Beethoven and other composers. Presented by Chandler Symphony Orchestra.

Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Avenue, Chandler, 480.899.3447, chandlercenter. org, 3 p.m., free with suggested donation of $5 to $15.

Buddy, Ritchie & The Big Bopper

Assisted Living: The Musical

The Music Man

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JANUARY 10 TO JANUARY 13 No work, no pregnancy and a full array of Medicare-subsidized pharmaceuticals; 21st century seniors are partying like it’s 1969.

Two actors play 18 characters during the hilarious 75-minute show, reminiscent of a vaudeville musical revue. The show begins as the star couple enters heaven, and continues as they reminisce about the Pelican Roost, the retirement community where they spent their last years.

Scottsdale Center for the Arts, 7380 E. Second Street, Scottsdale, 480.499.8587, scottsdaleperformingarts. org, times vary, $31-39.

JANUARY 19 On February 3, 1959, three of the country’s hottest musical stars tragically died in a plane crash in Clear Lake, Iowa. Later dubbed “The Day the Music Died” in Don McLean’s 1971 song “American Pie,” the legend and music of these artists live on.

Relive this era of rock ‘n’ roll through a musical tribute featuring their most popular songs, including “Peggy Sue,” “That’ll Be The Day,” “Rave On,” “La Bamba” and “Chantilly Lace.”

Queen Creek Performing Arts Center, 22149 E. Ocotillo Road, Queen Creek, 480.987.SHOW, qcpac.com 7:30 p.m., $20-$25.

Hostage

JANUARY 18 TO FEBRUARY 2 iTheatre Collaborative takes a look at the ferocity of a mother’s love, set against true event in 1979 when students took over the American

An d in th is Corn er...

Cassiu s Clay

JANUA RY 27 TO MA RCH 3 Black Theatre Troupe and Childsplay have teamed up for a special production chronicling the life of Cassius Clay Jr., as he takes his first step into the ring, becoming the man later known as Muhammad Ali. The story follows his life as a 12-year old boy fighting for himself and his community in the segregated south of the 1950s.

H elen K . M aso n Perfo rmi n g Arts Center, 1333 E .

Was hi n gto n Stree t, Ph oenix, 602 . 258 . 81 29, n ew-wp. blackth eatre trou pe. o rg , t i m es va r y, $25 .

The Producers

JANUARY 25 TO FEBRUARY 10 Springtime for Hitler. The Broadway show is sure to be a bust. Max ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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

HELLO, ARIZONA! Connor Wince returns home on national tour Laura Latzko >> The Entertainer!

T

he musical Hello, Dolly! continues to endear audiences more than 60 years after its original debut because of its farcical storyline, memorable music and relatable yet offbeat characters.

Led by Betty Buckley and aided by East Mesa native Connor Wince, the national tour of Hello, Dolly! is keeping

Created by Jerry Herman and Michael Stewart, Hello, Dolly! debuted on Broadway in 1964 and was revived in 2017, subsequently winning four Tony Awards, including Best Revival of a Musical.

The national tour also stars Lewis Stadlen, as Horace Vandergelder; Garett Hawe, as Ambrose Kemper; Morgan Kirner, as Ermengarde; Nic Rouleau, as

the musical alive. It comes to ASU Gammage from Tuesday, January 8, to Sunday, January 13.

Hello, Dolly! follows widowed socialite Dolly Gallagher Levi (Buckley), who is enlisted to play matchmaker for cantankerous “half-a-millionaire” Horace Vandergelder but ultimately has a more devious plot in mind to land herself a husband. She is also enlisted to help artist Ambrose Kemper, who is in love with Horace’s niece Ermengarde, and is joined in her hijinks by hotel clerks Cornelius Hackl and Barnaby Tucker.

Cornelius Hackl and Jess LeProtto, as Barnaby Tucker.

An ensemble member, Wince graduated from Red Mountain High School in Northeast Mesa and earned a journalism degree from ASU. While growing up in Arizona, the actor performed with the East Valley Children’s Theatre, Prather Entertainment Group and Hale Centre Theatre.

Hello, Dolly! is the actor’s second national tour. He has also been in the ensemble cast for the national tour of The Little Mermaid. When he steps on the Gammage stage, it’ll be his Arizona

ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

stop with a national tour. He expects to see a lot of familiar faces.

“My mom has invited just about everyone I know in Arizona. It’s really exciting to be able to go home and perform my show there,” Wince says.

Wince says the show’s positive message speaks to him.

“The show is all about the joy in the world.”

He says the production doesn’t rely on technical elements or special effects. Instead, it focuses on the quirky storyline and characters, as well as big production numbers.

“It’s definitely very traditional Broadway style, with a lot of ballet in the show,” Wince says. “It’s really based in what musical theater was, and I think that’s something we’re all proud of.”

He says the show’s humor still stands up.

“I think it’s probably much more comedic than people would expect from it,” Wince says. “People are usually hysterically laughing by the end of it.”

Hello, Dolly! has challenged the actor because it is such a dance-heavy show, especially for ensemble members.

“There were dance moves I had to practice during rehearsal to get them right,” he says. “I think that’s one of the prideful things about the show, is we really worked hard to get it where it is.”

In the production, the ensemble members play a variety of characters, including townspeople and waiters.

Wince says when playing each character, he tries to have a specific focus.

“When I’m playing a waiter, it’s really just about pride,” Wince explains.

“We’re very astute and put together as opposed to when I’m a polka competition dancer. I’m usually a little bit more wacky.”

The show leans toward ballet, but

the dancers showcase their polka skills during the competition scene. In one of Wince’s favorite scenes, Dolly shows Cornelius and Barnaby how to dance.

“It turns into a huge dance number with all of the ensemble. It really is just a moment that is all about the joy of dancing,” Wince adds.

Wince became involved in theater and started taking vocal lessons at a young age but didn’t start dance classes until age 17. Through middle school, he did gymnastics, training that has served him well as an actor.

“I think that helped me in knowing my body, controlling it. In 90 percent of my shows I’ve done as an adult, I’ve tumbled,” Wince says.

Growing up, he was the only performer in his family and would often put on shows for his family.

“I have quite a few embarrassing home videos of me putting on some dance performances,” Wince says.

On a more serious note, Wince performed in the Hale Centre Theatre’s Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, which led him on his path as a performer.

“That was the first time that I realized my strengths as a dancer and began to realize how much I really enjoyed doing that. I’ve always loved being in the ensemble. I think it’s such an impactful and powerful job,” Wince says.

Hello, Dolly! National Tour

ASU Gammage, 1200 S. Forest Avenue, Tempe, 480.965.3434, asugammage.com, various times Tuesday, January 8, to Sunday, January 13, tickets start at $35.

The Secret Life of Women Duo’s comedy show

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2019

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brings humor to female foibles

L

inda Klein found her childhood diary and had a good laugh.

Relationship, school and family drama filled the pages. She thought her longtime writing partner, Barbara Gehring, would find it equally as funny.

“We were reading our diaries to each other that afternoon, and I said it could be a show,” Gehring says. “It’s something that’s universal for everyone because it’s all based in honesty and truth. You can’t make this stuff up.”

The result is The Secret Comedy of Women – Girls Only, an original comedy celebrating the honor, truth, humor and silliness of being female. Performances are at the Herberger Theater Center January 23 to February 24.

“We had a blast brainstorming allthings female,” Gehring says. “We started with diaries and all the funny things women go through in life.”

Klein adds, “We wrote a show that demonstrates to women all the triumphs over everything that’s put in their way. We get a laugh out of how hard it is to put on pantyhose and the heartbreaks of first boyfriends.”

The Secret Comedy of Women is a mix of sketch comedy, improvisation, audience participation and hilarious songs and videos.

“It is a unique theatrical experience in the sense it’s a blend of a lot of theater, sketch comedy and a Broadway theater,” Klein says.

“People like the fact it has a great pace and things are changing all the time. Every audience has a different experience, but it’s always like a girlhood reunion.”

The Secret Comedy of Women is intended for female audiences, but men enjoy it as well.

“There was a man who was brought to the show by his sisters,” Gehring says.

“I think he had seven sisters. They were all sitting in the front. He was the one who started the standing ovation. He said, ‘That was my life growing up. What a celebration of my beautiful sisters.’

“Other women are overwhelmed with laughter and say they should have brought their Depends, or we should sell them at intermission. We have lot of women who are touched by it and are not exactly sure why.”

Women enjoy reminiscing about their high school years, Klein and Gehring say. It can be emotional and funny.

The Secret Comedy of Women ran for two years at the Denver Centre for the Performing Arts, and in front of a quarter of a million guests nationally, Gehring says. The show is appropriate for folks of all ages.

“We had a group of 11-year-olds at a show for a birthday party and they all had a ball,” Klein says. “There’s something in there for a woman of any age. It looks at women in a light-hearted, innocent way.”

Connor Dziawura >> The Entertainer!

The Secret Comedy of Women Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe Street, Phoenix, 602.256.6995, herbergertheater. com, 2 p.m. Wednesdays, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Thursdays, 8 p.m. Fridays, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturdays and 2 p.m.

Sundays January 23 to February 24, $54-$62.

Meet the artists in over 120 working studios!

Meet the11-MARCH artists in over JANUARY 24120 working studios!

JANUARY 11-MARCH 24 26540 N Scottsdale, at Jomax 26540 N Scottsdale, at Jomax ArizonaFineArtEXPO.com 480-837-7163

ArizonaFineArtEXPO.com 480-837-7163 10-week Season Pass $10; Military/Seniors $8 • Open Daily–Rain or Shine–10-6 10-week Season Pass $10; Military/Seniors $8 • Open Daily–Rain or Shine–10-6

On a ‘Mission’

Laura Latzko >> The Entertainer!

Styx understands the loneliness of exploring the world

T

he band Styx has touched listeners around the world since the 1970s and continues to make meaningful music with a human touch.

The Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Famers continue that goal with 2017’s The Mission, an album they’re continuing to push on a tour that comes to the Celebrity Theatre Friday, January 11, and Saturday, January 12. The Mission tells a futuristic story of the first manned mission to Mars in 2033. Guitarist James “JY” Young says separation is a common bond between traveling musicians and explorers.

“As touring musicians, we deal with separation from loved ones on a regular basis,” says Young, who has a degree in mechanical and aerospace engineering.

“We are gone from home half of the year, and somebody’s mother dies while you’re on the road, and you just can’t be there. Your parents die, crises occur at home, and you’re 1,000, 2,000 or 10,000 miles away.

“The sense of separation that we feel in our career as touring musicians certainly is not going to be as profound as the feeling of separation that people have in outer space and knowing they are going to head 40 million miles away, but I think the human emotion won’t be that different.”

Styx has embraced space themes with its song “Come Sail Away,” which originally depicted a sailing ship but later became focused on a spaceship. For The Mission, the group used analog equipment similar to its first album. Young says throughout the years, Styx has retained its signature sound.

“I just think we’re more evolved, but the basic power of the band still comes from the bass, drums, guitar and keyboard and the three-part harmony vocals, which has always been our signature,” Young says.

Young has been in the group since its early days with bass player John Panozzo and guitarist Tommy Shaw. It has newer faces in drummer Todd Sucherman, bass guitarist Ricky Phillips and Scottish-born Canadian keyboard player Lawrence Gowan. Styx has produced 16 studio albums, four of which have gone multiplatinum.

Styx’s crowds are a mix of original fans who have loved its music since the beginning and newer listeners who are just discovering it.

The latter group speaks to the music’s timeless quality and focus on the formative years between youth and adulthood.

“We’ve always been known for doing quality records and quality shows, but that doesn’t guarantee anything. But somehow our music remains relevant,” Young says. “I really attribute it to in the late ’60s through the ’70s and ’80s, rock music was geared not at all ages but at young people in a way. The lyrics are more relatable to people in their late teens, 20s and 30s.”

One of the band’s writers, Young says Styx’s music evokes similar feelings in him as in the beginning.

“It’s a joyful thing to me. I think more than anything, the joy that I bring to the stage, and the joy that the rest of my bandmates bring to the stage, is contagious. If you exude joy, then the crowd reflects that,” Young said.

Up until 2008, the band didn’t play “Mr.

Roboto,” one of its most popular hits. Young says they avoided it because it was so different from their other songs, but they decided to add it to their sets due to audience demand.

“We’re just finally catering to the audience that discovered us as 11 year olds back in ’83 by playing that,” Young says.

Young has found that other songs, such as “Renegade,” “Too Much Time on My Hands” and “Crystal Ball,” have had an impact on the fans’ lives. For him, singing them in unison with the crowd is similar in some ways to a church service.

“It’s a celebration that bonds us all together and reminds us about what remains good still in life on planet Earth,” Young says.

Styx

Celebrity Theatre, 440 N. 32nd Street, Phoenix, 602.267.1600 ext. 1, celebritytheatre.com, 8 p.m. Friday, January 11, and Saturday, January 12, $40-$105 for general admission, $199 to $350 for VIP packages.

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

Radiohead’s ‘OK Computer’ is never the same when Portland Cello Project reinterprets it

C

overing Radiohead’s landmark 1997 album OK Computer would be a daunting task for anyone, but the Portland Cello Project took a unique approach.

The ensemble at first ignored Radiohead completely and only reimagined the material it felt it could pull off, says arranger Doug Jenkins.

“I think for us the philosophy was to only do things if they were going to be really high quality or else we knew it would burn out like a Roman candle,” Jenkins says.

“Radiohead was a really big part of that. Radiohead’s programming and repertoire is so important to so many of us in the group. Their sense of orchestration is already there and their palate is naturally going to be much larger than a bunch of classical instruments. It’s because they aren’t held back by any of those restrictions. So really the initial inspiration was just not do it, like, ‘Let’s never touch Radiohead.’”

Eventually, however, the tides turned for the classical ensemble, which formed more than a decade ago, and in 2012 the collective celebrated the 15th anniversary of Radiohead’s album. Portland Cello Project only tackled the behemoth when a woodwind quintet, The City of Tomorrow, and a men’s choir jumped on board.

“That’s how it came about. ‘Let’s do OK Computer because it’s just been off limits for so long, but let’s put the right energy into it and do it correctly,’” Jenkins explains.

“And since

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Connor Dziawura >> The Entertainer! then it’s really just evolved. We take it seriously.”

He adds, “A lot of the musicians in the group who hadn’t heard of Radiohead have really grown a connection to the group and the rest of us who really have and love the group have just treated it as kind of our meditation, I guess.”

Though Jenkins says the group had an “extreme and ambitious goal” to not cover songs more than once – in doing so building up an arsenal of more than 1,000 pieces of music – six more years have gone by and the ensemble is keeping its interpretation of OK Computer alive. Portland Cello Project’s lineup frequently changes, and with it the songs’ arrangements to compensate, so no one performance is alike.

When the group stops by Musical Instrument Museum at 7:30 p.m. Friday, January 18, Jenkins says the Portland Cello Project will be equipped with cellos, brass, a full rhythm section and vocals. On vocals is Patti King of The Shins and on percussion is Tyrone Hendrix, who has performed with the likes of Prince and Stevie Wonder.

The shows are generally two 50-minute sets. The second is always OK Computer in full, while the first set always changes and is determined from a variety of considerations. Does the audience already know Radiohead? Is it a traditional classical or jazz audience that needs to be eased into OK Computer? Do attendees

have other suggestions, whether it’s Kanye West or Taylor Swift? And in the case of Phoenix, Jenkins won’t commit, because he can never truly know what will happen in the moment.

“It’s different every night, which is kind of the nature of this group, too, is we’re always kind of trying to fit the community and it kinds of makes it fun for us, too,” he explains.

Jenkins estimates 100 arrangement changes since his act started the Radiohead project. Sometimes songs are done with vocals; sometimes without. It depends on which musicians are on deck.

“We keep it very recognizable, but we try to just grab the elements of the music that are really special, and we play with it and meditate on them,” he says about formulating arrangements.

“We’re going to pull out some different stuff that you’ve maybe been overlooking or forgot about and we’re going to try to make it special and new.”

He says Portland Cello Project’s version of “Airbag” is nothing like the original, while he only became satisfied with their rendition of “Let Down” this past fall.

He feels King is the perfect vocalist to cover their very different rendition of “Climbing Up the Walls.” “Paranoid Android” is extended and performed instrumentally and its B-side, “Polyethylene (Parts 1 & 2),” which only comes out on occasion, is rhythmically weird and appealing to their drummer.

As for the

musique concrète “Fitter Happier,” well, interpreting that to a classical ensemble doesn’t make any sense, Jenkins says.

Its 1,000-song catalog has garnered positive feedback from the artists Portland Cell Project has tackled. Beck and Jay-Z have acknowledged the collective, and Jenkins says it would be cool to get Radiohead’s thoughts, too. However, recognition isn’t a motive.

“To have it would be amazing,” he says.

“That’s not a big concern or a thought even.

I mean we’re doing it because we love it. If I were them, I’d probably not care.”

He lets out a laugh.

“When we’ve gotten the feedback from other stars, it felt really good. Even when we’ve collaborated with amazing people in the past, it’s felt really good, but that’s not really why we do it. It’s really about just good musicianship, and doing something special for our audience.”

Portland Cello Project: Radiohead’s OK Computer Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix, 480.478.6000, mim.org, 7:30 p.m. Friday, January 18, $38.50-$48.50.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2019

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JOEY ALEXANDER Thursday, January 10 | 7 & 9 p.m. | $33.50–$53.50 “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing—his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.”

—Wynton Marsalis

Upcoming Concerts Special EFX All-Stars January 5 MusicaNova Orchestra: The Mystical Muse—Cycles of Inspiration and Hope January 6 Legends of Guitar featuring Anthony Mazzella January 11 The Brother Brothers January 16 The Alison Brown Quintet January 17 Portland Cello Project: Radiohead’s OK Computer January 18 Booker T. Jones January 19 & 20 Dakh Daughters January 21 And many more!

2019 Concert Series sponsored by

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

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DINING

EAT » EXPERIENCE » INDULGE » SAVOR » DEVOUR » NOSH

JANUARY FOOD EVENTS Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

celebrity chefs and learn from the top plant-base nutrition, lifestyle and health care experts.

Sedona Performing Arts Center, 995 Upper Red Rock Loop Road, Sedona, healthyworldsedona. com, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., $15-$50.

Olive Oil Basics 101 Class Farmhouse Friends and Family Night

SUNDAYS IN JANUARY Tackle the eight-scoop Farmhouse Sundae with the family each Sunday night. The Farmhouse sundae includes eight scoops of ice cream loaded with cookies, brownies, butter cake and a choice of toppings.

The Screamery, 10625 N. Tatum Boulevard, Phoenix, 602.368.1362, thescreamery. com, 5 to 10 p.m., $19.50 (regular price $24.50).

JANUARY 12 The We Olive and Wine Bar staff explains basic olive facts and shares tips on preparing dishes at home with olive oils. Class’ price includes one 5-ounce bottle of featured olive oil.

Reservations deadline is January 10.

We Olive & Wine Bar, 1721 N. Dysart Road, Suite A101, Avondale, 623.207.1216, https://bit. ly/2SP5VI9, 10 to 11 a.m., $13.48.

Demonstrate…and Donuts JANUARY 17

Peoria Food Truck Movie Night

JANUARY 5 Grab a blanket, chair, family and friends and enjoy an outdoor movie and food trucks. The event, held the first Saturday of each month, also hosts a kids dance party, face painting, music, popup shops, princess visits and free chair massages. Charge for food and face painting/balloons.

Paseo Verde Park, 7561 W. Greenway Road, Peoria, bit.ly/2ErMUby, 5 to 9 p.m., free admission.

Edible-Medicinal Desert Plants Walk

JANUARY 12 During this one-hour walk, guests will see prickly pear cactus, towering stalks of agave and mesquite trees – with a chance to taste a few desert edibles ranging from prickly pear jelly to nopalitos, mesquite flour and agave nectar.

Boyce Thompson Arboretum, 37615 E. U.S. Highway 60, Superior, 602.827.3000, cals. arizona.edu/bta/events/ html, 8:30 a.m., $5-$15.

The Scottsdale Gallery Association is honoring first responders through its first Gold Palette ArtWalk of the New Year. “Demonstrate…and Donuts” will feature donut-sampling opportunities at participating galleries. Local donut shops will provide the tastings, and entertainment includes traditional bagpipe music. The event benefits the 100 Club of Arizona.

Scottsdale Gallery District, Main Street from Scottsdale Road to Goldwater Boulevard, and north of Indian School on Marshall Way to Fifth Avenue, scottsdalegalleries. com, 6:30 to 9 p.m., free admission.

Sedona VegFest

JANUARY 19 TO JANUARY 20 The Sedona VegFest celebrates the joys of plant-based eating.

Guests can sample food, watch cooking demonstrations from

Dysart Road, Suite A101, Avondale, 623.207.1216, https://bit. ly/2UJvpZk, 10 to 11 a.m., $13.48.

Buckeye Food Truck Movie Night

JANUARY 19 Grab a blanket, chair, family and friends and enjoy an outdoor movie and food trucks. The event also hosts a kids dance party, face painting, music, pop-up shops, princess visits and free chair massages. Charge for food and face painting/balloons.

Sundance Park, 22865 W. Lower Buckeye Road, Buckeye, eventbrite. com, 4 to 8 p.m., free admission.

Let’s Make Vegan Food and Sip Wine

JANUARY 19 Learn how to create vegan cuisine while smelling spices from around the world, indulging in gourmet hors d’oeuvres and sipping wine. The menu includes a juicy vegan steak/ burger or a vegan seafood dish.

Phoenician Oasis, 1620 W. Nighthawk Way, Phoenix, eventbrite.com, 3 to 5:30 p.m., $40, reservations required by emailing info@ phoenicianoasis.com.

Brunch Bash

JANUARY 26 The ultimate ode to breakfast and lunch, the Brunch Bash will have an abundance of sweet and savory offerings to snack and sip on, from breakfast tacos and unconventional bennies to bacon, French toast and pancakes. Breakfast cocktails will be available, too, at the event that benefits One N Ten. CityScape, 1 E. Washington Street, Phoenix, bunchbashaz. com, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., $8 general admission, $100 VIP.

Taste About Scottsdale

JANUARY 26 Taste About Scottsdale at Kierland Commons and Jared Allen’s Homes 4 Wounded Warriors bring together the best area chefs and restaurants.

Guests can wander through Kierland Commons’ streets to enjoy tastings paired with beer, wine and cocktails from 45-plus local restaurants, breweries, wineries and distilleries.

Kierland Commons, 15205 N. Kierland, Scottsdale, eventbrite. com, 2 to 9 p.m., $45-$125.

Valentine Mozzarella Cheese-Making Class

Balsamic Basics 101 Class

JANUARY 19 Learn about the basics of balsamic vinegar during this class that includes one 5-ounce bottle of featured balsamic vinegar.

Reservation deadline is January 17.

We Olive & Wine Bar, 1721 N.

JANUARY 26 Homemade mozzarella in the shapes of hearts and braids are on the menu at this class.

We Olive & Wine Bar, 1721 N. Dysart Road, Suite A101, Avondale, 623.207.1216, https://bit.ly/2rx9uXK, 3 to 5 p.m., $39.72.

Tickets Start at $15!

Restrictions, exclusions and additional charges may apply. Subject to availability. Tickets at market pricing.

Purchase tickets at venue box office, ticketmaster.com or call 800-745-3000.

STATE FARM STADIUM JAN 19 Competitors shown are subject to change. © 2018 Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

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

Happy Hour Guide Brat Haus

Nestled in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, this Euro-inspired eatery and beer garden just launched its happy hour program from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday. Food and drink specials include $1 off all draft beers, $5 glasses of wine, $7 Haus cocktails, $4 fried pickles, $6 brat burgers, $15 giant pretzels, and a free brat for dogs. For late-night visitors, reverse happy hour is 9 to 11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, when there is $2 off all draft beers, $5 glasses of wine and $5 well drinks. As a new twist on “Sunday Funday,” guests can enjoy Stein Sundays with bottomless steins and mimosas for $20 from noon to 3 p.m.

3622 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.947.4006, brauthausaz.com.

Buck & Rider

Happy hour is through 7 p.m. Monday to Saturday, when patrons can enjoy $6 signature cocktails, house pours and featured glasses of wine and draft beer. Reverse happy hour is from 9:30 p.m. to close Thursday to Saturday.

4225 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, 602.346.0110, buckandrider.com.

Cold Beer & Cheeseburgers

Cold Beer & Cheeseburgers lives up to its name, but offers more than that. Check out the menu and see. Happy hour is from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday, and includes domestic pints for $3, domestic alum bottles and Four Peaks pints for $4, and premium wells and house wines at $5.

Valleywide locations, coldbeers.com.

Copper Blues

At Copper Blues, headliners don’t just occupy the stage, they surround it in the form of tap handles and inviting service.

Happy hour is offered from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday to Sunday.

50 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 480.719.5005, copperblueslive.com.

Craft 64

Craft 64 specializes in local craft beer and artisan woodfired pizza. Happy hour is 4 to 7 p.m. daily, when there is $1 off all local beers, five wines for $6, and small plates for $8.

6922 E. Main Street, Scottsdale, 480.946.0542, craft64.com.

CRUjiente Tacos

CRUjiente Tacos offers taco therapy with deals on globally influenced tacos and cocktails. Happy hour is 3 to 6 p.m.

Monday to Thursday, and the modern taqueria recently launched reverse happy hour from 9 to 11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Specials include $3 for the Korean fried chicken, $3 short rib tacos, $3 pork belly tacos, $7 Tex-Mex-style queso, $7 chips and salsa, $5 on any of the tacos CRUjientes (beef, pork or lamb), $5 Premier CRU margaritas, $1 off all draft and bottled beer and $2 off wine by the glass.

3961 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, 602.687.7777, crutacos.com.

El Chorro

Paradise Valley’s historic El Chorro offers an authentic Arizona dining experience with stunning views of the Valley’s most prominent landmark, Camelback Mountain.

Happy Hour is 5 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays to Saturdays.

5550 E. Lincoln Drive, Paradise Valley, 480.948.5170, elchorro.com.

EVO

EVO features recipes true to the Central and Northern regions of Italy, including risotto, alfredo, ragu and carbonara. Chef Steven Fowler strives to perfect a balance of simple yet robust flavors. Happy hour is 4 to 7 p.m. daily.

4175 N. Goldwater Boulevard, Scottsdale, 480.265.9814, evoscottsdale.com.

Freezer’s Ice House

Freezer’s Ice House is the Valley’s premiere Billiard Sports Bar establishment with 24 icy cold beers on draught.

Come see us! Happy hour is 3 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. ASU students (with Student ID) play pool free from noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. $2 Tuesdays (open to close): $2 domestic drafts, $2 tacos and $2 per hour person pool time. ASU Night Thursdays (6 p.m. to close): free pool for the ladies and $2 drink specials. UFC Fight Night Saturdays: UFC pay per view is offered as scheduled with only a $5 cover charge to attend. $10 Pool Pass Sundays: Play pool all day for only $10.

83 E. Broadway Road, Tempe.

“At the corner of Mill & Broadway”

Gallagher’s Sports Grill

Gallagher’s Sports Grill loves sports as much as it loves food, so it brings the two together. There are dozens of TVs and inspired dishes. Happy hour is 3 to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday, and 9 p.m. to close Friday and Saturday.

Valleywide locations, visit gallaghersaz.com.

Hard Rock Café

Take a break from the heat and stroll into the musical oasis that is Hard Rock Café Phoenix. With the Flying V over the door, the Hard Rock Café features a fully loaded bar, food, memorabilia and music. Happy hour is 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday to Sunday.

3 S. Second Street, Suite 117, Phoenix, 602.261.7625, hardrock.com.

Hungry Monk

Chandler’s The Hungry Monk pours 27 craft beers, with daily happy hour from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Food specials run from 3 to 7 p.m.

1760 W. Chandler Boulevard, Chandler, 480.963.8000, hungrymonkaz.com.

Luxe Lounge

Experience UltraStar’s 21-and-older sports bar, restaurant and lounge that boasts 14 HD flat-screen TVs, four pool tables, Golden Tee Golf, soft tip darts and foosball. Happy hour is 4 to 7 p.m. Mondays to Saturdays, and all day Sundays. Specials include $3 well drinks, $3 house wines and $3 domestic draft beers. Appetizers are $3 to $6, including cheese crisp, fried pickles, cheese curds, spicy Cajun fries, hoagie bread, cheese pizza and garlic cheese bread.

16000 N. Maricopa Road, Maricopa, 520.233.2426, ultrastarakchin.com.

Pedal Haus Brewery

Mill Avenue’s resident brewpub and beer garden, Pedal Haus Brewery offers beer enthusiasts the opportunity to enjoy happy hour from 3 to 6:30 p.m. Monday to Saturday.

It features $2 off Pedal Haus beers and spirits, and $5 select wines while receiving $2 off all appetizers on the menu. “Sunday Funday” specials run all day and include $3 Pedal Haus beers, $3 mimosas, $4 Bloody Marys and $5 margaritas.

730 S. Mill Avenue, Tempe, 480.314.2337, pedalhausbrewery.com.

Philly’s Sports Grill

Happy hour is 3 to 7 p.m. daily, and 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. Sunday to Thursday. Specials include appetizer discounts.

1826 N. Scottsdale Road, Tempe; 1402 S. Priest Drive, Tempe; 4855 E. Warner Road, Phoenix, phillyssportsgrill.com.

Pig & Pickle

Pig & Pickle handcrafts cocktails, bakes its own bread, makes its own aioli and grows its own herbs. Happy hour is 3 to 6 p.m. daily.

2922 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale, 480.990.1407, pigandpickle.com.

Rack Scottsdale | Old Town Scottsdale

Rack Scottsdale offers fine spirits in a laid-back environment. Happy hour runs from 3 to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday and features half-priced appetizers, such as mozzarella sticks and bacon cheese fries, $1 off beer and $2 off cocktails. It’s more than drinks, though. Pool is half price ($5) for the table.

3636 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.476.1035, rackscottsdale.com.

Rehab Burger Therapy

Rehab Burger Therapy was founded on the idea that everyone deserves a break from the daily grind. Happy hour is offered from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, and 11 a.m. to close Thursdays. This includes $1 off “party starters,” wines by the glass and “rapid relief.”

7210 E. Second Street, Scottsdale; 480.621.5358, rehabburgertherapy.com.

The Stockyards

In 1947, The Stockyards, Arizona’s Original Steakhouse, opened its doors with a menu focused on its historical past: beef. Staying true to its heritage, The Stockyards’ menu continues to feature only the finest corn-fed, aged steaks and prime rib. Happy hour is 4 to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday, when house wine, draft beer, saloon snacks, domestic beer and well drinks are discounted. Complimentary tenderloin sliders are also offered.

5009 E. Washington Street, Suite 115, Phoenix, 602.273.7378, stockyardssteakhouse.com.

SunUp Brewing Co.

SunUp offers beer brewed on site, with happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m. daily.

322 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, 602.279.8909, sunup.beer.

TapHouse Kitchen

TapHouse Kitchen of Scottsdale offers a menu by Chef Patrick Karvis centered around modern American cuisine, in addition to a respectable selection of craft beers. Happy hour is from 3 to 6 p.m. daily. Specials are plenty, with $2 off all draft beer, spirits and wine on tap, and $2 off all beer flights.

Hilton Village, 6137 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 108, 480.656.0012, taphousekitchen.com.

Tutti Santi

Tutti Santi’s menu offers Nina’s original recipes for Italian classics, from antipasti freddi to mozzarella caprese.

Happy hour is 4:30 to 6 p.m. Monday to Thursday, and 9 to 11 p.m. Fridays. The late-night specials include live music.

6339 E. Greenway Road, Suite 108, Scottsdale, 480.951.3775, tuttisantiristorante.com.

Uncle Bear’s Grill & Tap

Uncle Bear’s Grill & Tap’s extensive menu includes favorites like garlic parm fries, fried mozzarella, beer cheese soup, Cajun-spiced chicken salad, black and bleu burger, guacamole and prime rib. Happy hour is 3 to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday, and 10 p.m. to close Sunday to Thursday. The kitchen closes at midnight Friday and Saturday, and at 10 p.m. Sunday to Thursday.

9053 E. Baseline Road, Mesa; 2115 E. Rittenhouse Road, Queen Creek; 4921 E. Ray Road, Phoenix, unclebearsbarandgrill.com.

Wasted Grain

Happy Hour is offered 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, and 4 to 9 p.m.

Friday.

7295 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale, 480.970.0500, wastedgrainscottsdale.com.

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‘SIMPLE, FRESH, CLEAN’

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2019

Fresh and intimate Compared to other resort restaurants, Weft & Warp is on the smaller end – but Thompson wouldn’t have it any other way.

“When you come in, we have a great atmosphere here: nice, beautiful views, Camelback Mountain,” Thompson says.

In the restaurant, one of the most intimate spaces is the glass-enclosed exhibition kitchen where guests can watch the chef whip up each visually appealing dish.

Thompson also has limited storage space for his meats and produce, but he uses it to his advantage.

“We only have one walk-in that I use for meats and produce, so we get delivery seven days a week,” Thompson says. “I keep small orders coming in every day, so we keep the product as fresh as possible.”

Weft & Warp gets artistic with its environs and its food

By Kristine Cannon >> The Entertainer!

A recipe for success

C

aked with cotija cheese, drizzled with aioli and sprinkled with herbs, the elote appetizer is a work of art, exploding with color and flavor.

The charred corn appetizer was just the start of what would be a feast for the eyes and taste buds at Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Spa’s onsite restaurant, Weft & Warp Art Bar + Kitchen.

Weft & Warp prioritizes art over everything else, from the near-perfect presentation on the plate to the custom-made artwork throughout the restaurant – from the back of the house to the front.

“There’s no one Andaz alike,” says Chef Jayson Thompson, executive sous chef at Weft & Warp.

“What Andaz does is take their surroundings, so Scottsdale being very art driven, that’s what our theme is.”

Art is at the heart For its artwork throughout the resort and its guest rooms, Andaz Scottsdale kept it local, sourcing from an artist compound located less than 1 mile away: Cattle Track Arts & Preservation.

Cattle Track provides most of the art in the restaurant, from artist Chance Philips’ Faces I’ve Seen art in the private dining area to Cattle Track potter Mary Van Dusen’s handcrafted ceramic plates, platters, bowls and mugs.

“We also have two bar stools here with two artists’ plaques,” Thompson says. “When you have something that’s handmade, none of them are the same thing.”

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And that includes the food.

Thompson knows people eat with their eyes first, so presentation is very important to him and his team in the kitchen.

“We’ll try to do a lot of colors, bright – make the food look like art as well, so it stands out more,” he says.

Keeping it spicy Weft & Warp recently introduced a revamped menu in October, changing about 75 percent of it.

For the new menu, Thompson’s concept was twofold: use as many local ingredients as possible and showcase Arizona – and all its bright, beautiful colors – on every plate.

“The average guest wanted more variety, more things they were familiar with,” Thompson says. “We opened up our menu a bit, but still kept things and stayed true to what we started with.”

Quail and rabbit were among the offerings removed from the menu.

However, lamb belly stayed, as did a lot of local ingredients, including Arizona hatch chili powder, which is used in the green chile roasted chicken dish, among other dishes.

“Spices are our big thing,” Thompson says, adding he uses a

blend of different local spices, such as Aleppo pepper and Sonoran olive oil. The finishing and spices are the real stars of the dish.

“We use more spices than the actual ingredients themselves,” Thompson says. “It’s more unique than just using a pepper or something from here. With the spice, we can make our own blends and mix it from there.”

Thompson latest creation? A blend of spices called desert spice, which is used on a couple breakfast items and Weft & Warp’s potato chips.

“It’s a blend of about eight or nine different local spices,” Thompson said, listing off Aleppo, pimenton, Sonoran sea salt and dark chili powder among the included spices.

When choosing ingredients from local vendors, which includes McClendon’s Select based in Peoria and Peddler’s Son Produce in Phoenix, Thompson is careful to order approachable familiar ingredients.

“We use mole sauce and salsa verde, adobo and different things like that that people have heard of or are familiar with, but we use them in a different way with marinating or as a finishing,” Thompson says.

“I would say we are simple, fresh, clean.”

Andaz Scottsdale’s fresh approach to showcasing local art and local ingredients has clearly paid off: It was voted as one of the top resorts in the world in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2018 Readers’ Choice Awards, ranking No. 7 in the Top Resort in the U.S. Southwest category.

“It is a huge honor for us to continue to be named among the top resorts in the Southwest, and it means so much that it is our guests who voted us onto this coveted list,” says Mike Waddill, general manager of Andaz Scottsdale.

Andaz Scottsdale was also recognized in last year’s Readers’ Choice Awards, which ranks the world’s best hotels, resorts, cities, islands, airlines, airports and cruise lines. It’s also considered the longestrunning and most prestigious recognition of excellence in the travel industry.

Two other Scottsdale resorts made the list: Fairmont Scottsdale Princess at No. 6 and JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa at No. 10.

“We aim to connect our visitors with interesting cultural experiences that leave them enriched and inspired, and we are grateful to have such an incredible team that delivers these memorable and enriching experiences to our guests daily,” Waddill says.

Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Spa’s Weft & Warp Art Bar + Kitchen 6114 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.368.1234, hyatt.com, opentable.com ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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BEER AND WINE

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SIP » BREW » RELAX » EXPERIMENT » REFRESH » TOAST

Beer Over Here

Drink up at any of these Valley beer events this JANUARY Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

Painting It Forward

201 W. Butler Avenue, Flagstaff, 928.853.4292, flagstaffbrewhaha. com, 2 to 6 p.m., $45 in advance.

JANUARY 12 A paint and sip class with an extra dose of heart and soul. The class benefits the Salt River wild horses.

Pinot’s Palette, 2743 S. Market Street, Suite 110, Gilbert, 480.750.9463, pinotspalette. com/gilbert, 7 to 9 p.m., $35.

Grand Wine Festival

Flagstaff BrewHaHa: A Winter Tasting

JANUARY 19 BrewHaHa will feature more than 60 of the best local, regional and national breweries and over 150 different craft beers. There will be live music featuring Flagstaff’s FoxyKoshka. Awards are judged by the local homebrewers club and guests. In keeping with the “tasting” theme of the event, bratwurst will be available for sale. Flagstaff BrewHaHa benefits the Flagstaff Ski Club.

High Country Conference Center,

Surprise Fine Art and Wine Festival

JANUARY 11 TO JANUARY 13 Ben Kinne is the featured artist at this Thunderbird Artists event where patrons can get up close and personal with the artwork and their creators. Wine plays a big part in this, with 25 percent of the proceeds benefiting the Kiwanis Club. Schlossadler International has become a local favorite at the event, as well as King Frosch. Wineries Cellar 433, Del Rio Springs, Su Vino and Village of Elgin bring a variety of products made from locally grown grapes and Kingman’s Desert Diamond Distillery hosts flavored rums, gins and vodkas.

Surprise Recreation Campus, 14469 W. Paradise Lane, Surprise, 480.837.5637, thunderbirdartists.com, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., $3, $10 for wine-tasting ticket with souvenir glass.

Carefree Fine Art & Wine Festival

JANUARY 18 TO JANUARY 20 The Carefree Fine Art & Wine Festival features more than 155 juried fine artisans from around the world and blends it with tastings of domestic and imported wines. For $10, patrons will receive an engraved souvenir wine glass with six tasting tickets.

Downtown Carefree, at the corner of Easy and Ho Hum streets, 480.837.5637, thunderbirdartists. com, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., $3 admission for guests, free for Carefree residents, $10 for winetasting ticket with souvenir glass.

Scottsdale Rosé Fest

JANUARY 19 Not quite red, not quite white.

Scottsdale celebrates everyone’s favorite sweet-tasting pink wine with a four-hour party. Over 20 varieties of rosé await enthusiasts and amateurs along with music and photos.

Wasted Grain, 7295 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale, 480.970.0500, oldtownfests.com, 2 to 6 p.m., $20.

JANUARY 26 AND JANUARY 27 Nothing brings people together like a good red or white! Case in point: More than 30 Arizona wineries will pour 200 wines as guests take in live music, food trucks and vendors at the Grand Wine Festival. Winners of the Arizona Wine Competition will be announced, and attendees can choose between six, 10 or 15 tasting ticket options, depending on their thirst.

Heritage Square Park, 113 N. Sixth Street, 520.797.3959, azwinefestivals.com, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sunday, $15 admission only, $25$45 admission with tasting tickets.

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Beer Finder Directory Where to find the best craft beer bars in town

Craft 64

6922 E. Main Street, Scottsdale Craft 64 is proud to offer 36 local Arizona beers on tap in the heart of Scottsdale. Arizona beers only!

Mellow Mushroom Pizza

2490 W. Happy Valley Road, 5350 E. High Street, 740 S. Mill Avenue Locations throughout the Valley Incredible Pizza and amazing beer make Mellow the place to go for a craft beer experience.

Papago Brewing Company

7107 E. McDowell Road, Scottsdale The granddaddy of Arizona beer bars, there is something for every beer lover at Papago.

Boulders on Broadway

530 W. Broadway Road, Tempe Boulders has the appeal of a neighborhood bar with a beer list that’ll make your eyes pop.

Hungry Monk

1760 W. Chandler Boulevard, Chandler Whether you want great wings or great beer, Hungry Monk’s selection is tough to beat.

14 E. Pierce Street Phoenix The Phoenix Public Market Café is a casual urban hangout offering breakfast, lunch, dinner and great beer.

Freezer’s Ice House

Main Ingredient Ale House

4626 N. 16th Street, Unit 102, Phoenix The Casual Pint Central Phoenix is a fun spot with an upscale yet casual atmosphere. Our expert “beer-tenders” can serve up craft beer by the pint from our tap wall, by the can or by the bottle to enjoy in our store.

Copper Blues/Stand Up Live

50 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix Have a beer and a meal at Copper Blues before the stand-up show. You won’t even worry if it’s sold out.

Brat Haus

3622 N. Scottsdale Road Scottsdale The name says it all – brats, pretzels, Belgian fries and plenty of craft “bier” to make everyone happy.

Goldwater Brewing Co.

3608 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale This new brewery is already making waves with their desert inspired brews – and names. Check out their Scotch’Dale Scottish style ale.

Cold Beer and Cheeseburgers 4222 N. Scottsdale Road, 20831 N. Scottsdale Road Scottsdale Do we need to say more? The name spells out everything you need to know.

Spokes on Southern

1470 E. Southern Avenue, Tempe A comfortable bike-themed grill with 24 draft handles and food made from scratch.

Scottsdale Beer Company

4420 N. Saddlebag Trail Scottsdale Dierks Bentley has been known to kick back with a craft beer or two, and so can you at his digs.

The Casual Pint Central Phoenix

1524 E. Williamsfield Road, Gilbert First class food and first class beer, all set away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

5640 N. Seventh Street, 7135 E. Camelback Road Locations in Phoenix and Scottsdale Located at The Yard, Culinary Dropout has everything you look for in a great restaurant experience, especially great beer.

Phoenix Public Market Café

83 E. Broadway Road, Tempe (At the corner of Mill & Broadway) Freezer’s Ice House is the Valley’s premiere Billiard Sports Bar establishment with 24 icy cold beers on draught. Come see us! Happy Hour is 3 to 7 p.m.

Monday through Friday. ASU students (with Student ID) play pool free from noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Specials throughout the week include $2 Tuesdays, ASU Night Thursdays, UFC Fight Night Saturdays and Pool Pass Sundays.

Harvey American Public House

Culinary Dropout

Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row

Philly’s Sports Grill

1826 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 1402 S. Priest Drive, Tempe, 4855 E. Warner Road, Phoenix Over 20 beers on draft, 15 craft beers on tap plus more selection in cans/bottles. Happy hour is 4 to 7 p.m. daily, and reverse 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. Sunday through Thursday (excludes UFC, Boxing, ASU events).

8608 E. Shea Boulevard, Scottsdale Quality craft beer made right here in Scottsdale.

Happy hour is 3 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, with $1 off all Scottsdale Beer Company beers, well drinks, wines by the glass and all small bites and starters!

Flanny’s Bar and Grill

1805 E. Elliot Road Tempe Home of the Third Thursday Tap Takevoer. The rest of the month is pretty good, too.

$300 Off Move In when you mention Entertainer Magazine!

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2337 N. Seventh Street Phoenix A charming old home is the location for this Coronado neighborhood hangout spot.

Pig & Pickle

2922 N. Hayden Road Scottsdale A restaurant that focuses on balance and quality, Pig & Pickle doesn’t skimp when it comes to their craft beer selection, either.

House of Brews Sports Bar

825 S. Cooper Road Gilbert Is it a sports bar or a craft beer bar? It’s both!

The PERCH Pub & Brewery

232 S. Wall Street, Chandler Located in historic Downtown Chandler, this brewery and pub not only has delicious craft brews, but is also home to a collection of beautiful, brightly colored rescue birds!

TapHouse Kitchen

Hilton Village, 6137 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 108, Scottsdale Taphouse kitchen has 20 handles of the most sought after craft beers, mostly local brew and 2 THK selection rotating handles that change with the season and taste of what we are craving at the time.

Ground Control

4860 N. Litchfield Road Litchfield Park Fresh roasted coffee and an ever-changing selection of good beer, including a fantastic import selection, make this one of the top spots in the West Valley.

The Brass Tap

1033 N. Dobson Road, Suite 104 Mesa Over 60 Taps of great craft beers and over 300 total craft beers from around the globe available! Casually upscale atmosphere, open-air patio that is cigar-friendly, nice menu, daily specials and knowledgeable staff. What more could you ask for!

Uncle Bear’s Brewery

4921 E. Ray Road, Phoenix Stop by to enjoy some local craft beer including Uncle Bear’s and other guest taps as well as delicious bites and a great happy hour!

! r a e y t s 1 3 r Now in ou

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‘Great and Magical’ The Womack channels a ’60s cocktail lounge vibe

W

Heather Copfer >> The Entertainer!

hen Tucker Woodbury considered opening a cocktail lounge, he felt there was one thing to do: recall the past.

Phoenix’s The Womack is a nod to the infamous ’60s lounge Chez Nous, which was razed in 2007. Its owners were Andy and Maureen Womack, after whom the new club is fondly named.

“Chez Nous was so dearly missed,” says Woodbury of Genuine Concepts. “We just set out to build and recreate Chez Nous and sweated lots and lots of details.”

Inside the dimly lit venue you will find tufted booths, a boomerang-style bar and wallpaper that all similarly replicate Chez Nous. There’s a dance floor on the

far side paired with a small stage for entertainment. The music spans from jazz to DJs and country, which attracts an eclectic crowd.

“Depending on the night you really can’t classify a particular type of audience,” Woodbury says. “It’s every walk of life. It’s black. It’s white. It’s Hispanic. It’s gay. It’s young.”

The Roscoe Taylor Band was Chez Nous’ house band for 15 years and embodies R&B, soul and funk.

Woodbury says the Roscoe crowd is “funky, great people.”

“As they say, all people want to do is dance and it’s true. . . ultimately it just turns into a big dance party,” Woodbury says.

The lounge features small bites and

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a craft cocktail bar menu. To go with the ’60s theme, there are throwback cocktails: gin rickey, sidecar and the Harvey Wallbanger.

To complement craft cocktails are snacks like popcorn and nuts or deviled eggs. A sweet tooth can be cured with Mary Coyle’s ice cream.

Every restaurant under the Genuine Concepts restaurant umbrella gives back monthly to local charities like The Arizona Fallen Firefighters Memorial, Boys Hope Girls Hope of Arizona and Arizona Trails Foundation.

“We’ve always been a community,” Woodbury says. “It’s always been a big part since we opened our first store in Arcadia 13 years ago. It’s important to give back and support your community because we’re a part of it.”

Genuine Concepts purposely partners with smaller charities to make a direct

and definite impact on the community.

Each month, the company’s venues pair with a brewery and $1 to $2 from each beer purchased is donated to the community partner. The brewery matches that.

“People love to participate,” Woodbury says, “You’re not asking them for anything other than to do what they’ve been doing otherwise.”

Those fundraisers and The Womack’s vibe are what makes it unique.

“It’s always fun to stumble into one of those little neighborhood gems, little neighborhood dives or cool little experiences that you sometimes overlook,” he says. “They’re always so great and magical.”

The Womack, 5749 N. Seventh Street, Phoenix, 602.283.5232, thewomack.us.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2019

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CASINOS

PLAY » SPIN » LAUGH » GROOVE » UNWIND » WIN

A ‘SMART’ MOVE

C

omedian and former Chandler resident George Lopez calls his grandmother, Benita Gutierrez, his muse.

She was his inspiration and

love of his life.

“My grandmother worked hard until she was in her 70s,” Lopez explains during a visit to Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Resort. “It’s unfortunate I can’t go back and persuade her to enjoy life.”

Early this year, Lopez is honoring his grandmother by opening his second Chingon Kitchen, this one at Gila River Hotels & Casinos – Vee Quiva, 15091 S. Komatke Lane, Laveen. Chingon is a colloquial term from Mexico meaning “someone who is very smart.”

The fast-casual restaurant features authentic Mexican cuisine in a vibrant, urban-inspired setting with hand-painted graffiti murals influenced by Mexican history, folklore and culture.

“My grandmother raised me and cooked for me,” he says wistfully. “When people go on, you think they take their recipes. She never wrote anything down. She didn’t want to tell my wife, when I was married. If my wife could make it, why would I go to her house, she thought.

“Chingon Kitchen is me missing my grandmother and wanting to feel her around.”

The menu stays true to Lopez’s Mexican roots, with a menu of dishes made from scratch including tacos, burritos, bowls, and salads loaded with wood-fired carne asada, herb crusted rotisserie chicken and spit-fired al pastor. Guests can expect Mexican favorites like handmade guacamole, churros, street corn, horchata and more. Tequila fans will love the restaurant’s large selection of the agave-based spirits and extensive margarita offerings.

Gila River Hotels & Casinos executives are looking forward to the partnership as well.

“We are proud to partner with a beloved comedian and personality like George Lopez and introduce his exciting dining concept to Arizona,” says Kenneth Manuel, Gila River Hotels & Casinos chief executive officer. “We are constantly working to give our guests the best in dining, entertainment and gaming, and George Lopez’s Chingon Kitchen will fit in perfectly with that goal at Vee Quiva.”

Chingon Kitchen’s first location is at San Manuel Casino in Highland, California.

“When people come to you with ideas, usually they go away as fast as they present the ideas to you,” Lopez says. “When (San

George Lopez remembers his grandmother with Chingon Kitchen Manuel) came to me, they said to me, ‘Have you ever thought about doing a restaurant?’

The question was as funny as someone asking me once – at a concert I was doing outside – ‘Have you ever worked outside?’ I told them, ‘I’m Mexican. Of course I’ve worked outside. I think I was born outside.’”

The idea was a gem. Lopez is a hands-on proprietor who has visited his first restaurant 10 times since it opened.

“I don’t open these restaurants and disappear,” he says. “I’m here whenever people need me. The restaurant is very Chicano. The portions and price points are incredible as well.”

Lopez admits he defies his

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer! grandmother’s wishes at Chingon Kitchen.

“I was never allowed to eat more than one churro,” he says. “Having my own restaurant, I can have as many as I like. She would tell me to break it in half and then I can have two.

“Seriously, I don’t think I can go a day without thinking of her. You can’t reinvent Mexican food, but I can give it its own place.” georgelopez.com/chingon-kitchen

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2019

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ozonda “Chilli” Thomas feels blessed for her 30-year career with TLC and its success with “Waterfalls,” “Creep” and “No Scrubs.”

The next several decades will be just as successful, she predicts.

RED RED HOT

“That fire is still in me, naturally,” Thomas says.

“When it’s there, it’s there. It’s been such a blessing to be able to do the thing I love to do and make a living and have longevity in such a fickle business. I’m always so thankful.”

TLC has been packing venues throughout the world with Thomas and Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins. Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes died in a car crash in Honduras in 2002.

The duo comes to Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino on Friday, January 18.

“It’s definitely going to be a super-hype show.

We always have little surprises here and there and we change things up. I’m so excited with each show. I just want to give my best performance for everybody and have everybody walking away talking about the TLC show.”

TLC is one of those legacy acts, and Thomas realizes it. She was behind the 2013 VH1 original film CrazySexyCool: The TLC Story, which chronicled the group’s rise. Each time she sees the movie, the year’s highest-rated TV premiere, it makes her emotional.

“That was my baby,”

Rozonda ‘Chilli’ Thomas still has the fire for TLC CASINO ENTERTAINMENT

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she says. “I always wanted to tell our story. When we got the opportunity to do so, I said I was going to be involved from day one. Once I watched it, it was weird.

I was watching a story about my group, but I switched to almost being a fan. I’m happy I’m part of that group.

“At the end, when it shows the real us, it gets me every time. When the flashbacks come on, I cry every time. I’ve seen the movie a few times. I always tell myself I’m not going to cry. I know it’s coming, but I still cry.

When our ‘Sleighride’ video comes on and the still shot comes on, oh my God, I lose it every time.”

TLC doesn’t just make Thomas cry. Lady Gaga was choked up when she met Watkins.

“When she first met Tionne, she cried and told her what we meant to her growing up,” she says. “You never know whose lives your songs have touched. What you stand for and what you believe in can have a positive effect on somebody. I love it when some people have the courage to tell those stories.

“Some people see us out and think they don’t want to bother us. I don’t ever look at it like that. I like when people share something with me. It makes me feel just as good to know the good things I’m doing have a positive effect on somebody.”

TLC Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, playatgila.com, 8 p.m. Friday, January 18, tickets start at $45.

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

CALENDAR Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

caesars.com/harrahs-ak-chin

JANUARY 4

Desert Diamond Casino, Sahuarita, ddcaz.com

Lee Brice

Jeff Foxworthy

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Desert Diamond Casino, Sahuarita, ddcaz.com

JANUARY 18 TLC

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, playatgila.com/events/

JANUARY 19 The Walkens

Fort McDowell Casino, fortmcdowellcasino.com

JANUARY 26 Ana Popovic

Talking Stick Resort, talkingstickresort.com

Kenny G

BlueWater Resort and Casino, bluewaterfun.com

Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, playatgila.com/events

JANUARY 25

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

Firefall

The Walkens

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino,

The Walkens

Hotel California: A Tribute to the Eagles

BlueWater Resort and Casino, bluewaterfun.com ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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SPORTS

53

CHEER » HIT » HIKE » LEAD » ROOT » COMPETE

623.772.3800, nhl.com/coyotes/, 7 p.m., tickets start at $65.

JANUARY’S BEST

SPORTS EVENTS

Eric Newman >> The Entertainer!

PlayStation Fiesta Bowl

JANUARY 1 Undefeated UCF takes on SEC foe LSU in one of the nation’s biggest bowl games. In 2017, UCF was snubbed from the playoffs, even though it went undefeated.

With the same result this year, they look to get revenge on the Tigers, who boast a stout defense and impressive wins.

State Farm Stadium, 1 Cardinals Drive, Glendale, 602.379.0101, azcardinals.com, 11 a.m., tickets start at $12.

Royal Rumble

Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.379.2000, nba.com/suns/ tickets, 7 p.m., tickets start at $18.

Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon ASU Sun Devils vs. Utah Utes basketball

JANUARY 3 ASU looks to avenge its first-four loss in the NCAA Tournament last year, having gone 8-0 to start the year. The Utes are the Sun Devils’ first conference play opponent.

Wells Fargo Arena, 600 E. Veterans Way, Tempe, 480.727.0000, thesundevils. com, 6 p.m., tickets start at $9.

JANUARY 18 TO JANUARY 20 A marathon and half marathon run to the beat of rock ‘n’ roll – literally – through Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tempe. Participants run to bands performing along the route. The annual event, which also includes a Kids Rock! Race, kicks off with a free two-day health and fitness expo at the Phoenix Convention Center.

Various times and distances, visit runrocknroll.com.

Phoenix Suns vs. Portland Trailblazers

Phoenix Suns vs. Philadelphia 76ers

JANUARY 2 The 76ers visit Phoenix for the only time this season on their journey to reach the Eastern Conference playoffs. Top draft pick Deandre Ayton will have a chance to matchup against Joel Embiid, who has made a habit of embarrassing rookie opposition this year. The first 5,000 fans receive a Deandre Ayton Draft Night Bobblehead.

Arizona Coyotes vs. Pittsburgh Penguins

JANUARY 18 The Coyotes are having the best season of any professional sports team in the Valley. Their next task is to take on the Pittsburgh and eventual Hall-of-Famer Sydney Crosby. The first 7,500 fans to attend get a Trash-Talking Tyson Nash plush presented by Fox Sports Arizona.

Gila River Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Avenue, Glendale,

Drive, Glendale, statefarmstadium. com, 6 p.m., ticket prices vary.

JANUARY 24 Suns guard Devin Booker will likely matchup against stars in Trailblazer guards Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum in a battle of young talented scorers. The first 5,000 fans in attendance will also receive a Suns Rally Towel.

Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.379.2000, nba.com/suns/ tickets, 7 p.m., tickets start at $9.

U.S. Men’s National Team vs. Panama

JANUARY 27 The U.S. Men’s National Team will open its 2019 schedule with a friendly against regional foe Panama. It is the first game with coach Gregg Berhalter’s at the helm of the MNT. State Farm Stadium, 1 Cardinals

JANUARY 27 One of the WWE’s “Big Four” comes to Chase Field with the likes of Daniel Bryan, The Miz, AJ Styles and Dean Ambrose in tow. This battle royal features wrestlers entering at timed intervals. Check out the Fan Fest at Phoenix Convention Center, NXT, Raw and SmackDown, too. Get all the info at wwe.com.

Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 1.800.745.3000, ticketmaster.com, 4 p.m., tickets start at $26.50.

Waste Management Phoenix Open

JANUARY 28 TO FEBRUARY 3 The 2018 Waste Management Phoenix Open, won by Gary Woodland in a playoff, saw record attendance, social media engagement and charitable impact. Held at TPC Scottsdale and known for its famous coliseum-style 16th hole, the Waste Management Phoenix Open continues to shatter attendance records, with the 2018 event drawing a weekly total of 720,000 fans, nearly 63,000 more than the previous year.

TPC Scottsdale, 17020 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale, 480.585.4334, wmphoenixopen.com, various times, tickets start at $45.

ASU Sun Devils vs. Arizona Wildcats

JANUARY 31 In-state rivals ASU and Arizona go head to head at Wells Fargo Arena as both will likely be playing for seeding and an NCAA Tournament spot.

The Wildcats defeated ASU, 77-70, in the two teams’ last meeting.

Wells Fargo Arena, 600 E. Veterans Way, Tempe, 480.727.0000, thesundevils. com, 7 p.m., tickets start at $65.

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HUSTLE

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

MR

54

Richaun Holmes is quickly becoming a fan favorite Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

S

ome fans say Richaun Holmes is the hustle behind the Phoenix Suns. Holmes doesn’t necessarily disagree.

“I just come out and play with energy,” he says. “I run the floor and just make a lot of energy plays.”

Phoning from Boston, where the team had just completed a four-game winning streak, Holmes is excited about where the team is going.

“Everybody in the locker room has a will to compete,” Holmes says. “There are a lot of prideful guys on the team.

We genuinely enjoy playing together.

We just trying to find our rhythm, but things are getting better.”

The center/power forward is a basketball late bloomer. Holmes, the son of two Doctors of Divinity, went from 6-foot-2 to 6-foot-9 in high school in Broadview, Illinois, west of Chicago.

“In high school, I didn’t get that much playing time until my senior year,” he says.

“I was a late bloomer, I would say, in high school. I chose to go to junior college.”

Upon graduation, he played for Moraine Valley Community College, where he was an All-American. He averaged 19.3 points, 9.3 rebounds and 5.2 blocks per game. Holmes transferred to Bowling Green University.

He dedicated himself to improving, sometimes taking 1,000 shots a day in practice under head coach Chris Jans.

It wasn’t until midway through college that he realized he had the talent to go pro.

“I think it became realistic for me when I was a sophomore in college,” he says. “My coaches told me I had a

chance to play professionally. Ever since that day, I worked every day to get to that point. Thanks to hard work, I made it.”

On June 25, 2015, Holmes was selected with the 37th overall pick in the 2015 NBA draft by the Philadelphia 76ers. He played summer league for the team and inked a contract with them shortly thereafter.

He bounced around between the NBA, Summer League and the NBA Development League before landing a spot on the 76ers’ permanent roster.

The year 2017 was one of records for Holmes. He tied a career high in points with 24 on March 20 in a game versus the Orlando Magic; and nine days later beat that with 25 points against the Atlanta Hawks.

He was traded to the Phoenix Suns last summer.

“I love competing,” says Holmes, a free agent after this season. “The NBA has the best players in the world.”

On Holmes’ Twitter feed, he professes his love of music, faith, family and bowling.

“I’m a big-time spades player,” he says. “I also enjoy bowling and things of that sort.

“Bowling was my first sport before I started playing basketball. I’ll bowl anywhere, in any city.”

The tattooed athlete is the father to 2-year-old son RJ. His mother, Dr. Lydecia Holmes, has been an outspoken advocate of her son, asking the Suns to increase his playing time.

“My family has been that way since I was young,” Holmes says.

“They’ve been to every game since I can remember. They love to see me do well.”

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FAMILY

FROLIC » DISCOVER » IMAGINE » FAMILY » FUN » CONNECT

THE BEST FAMILY EVENTS IN JANUARY Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

Essential Etiquette for Teens JANUARY 5 AND JANUARY 6 Teens can refresh their social and business skills to enhance their self-confidence, enthusiasm and motivation at this two-day workshop. The topics include: interviewing tips for college and jobs, handshakes and eye contact, body language, the art of small talk, how to speak with the right tone with clarity, leadership qualities, how to make a positive first impression, social media etiquette, dating etiquette, dining etiquette, seating a lady at the table, tipping guidelines, dressing the part, being a good listener, interview follow-up calls and thank-you notes, grooming and skin care.

St. Bernard of Clairvaux Church, 10755 N. 124th Street Scottsdale, 480.510.6346, itsallaboutetiquette. com, 1 to 4 p.m., $285.

Toddler Test Kitchen

JANUARY 5 Toddler Test Kitchen is a handson, parent-child cooking class for kids ages 2 to 6. Toddler Test Kitchen works to increase food acceptance for selective eaters and boost excitement for adventurous children. Each class features an age-appropriate, original recipe created by Baby Bloom Nutrition.

The class is guided by Sarah Garone of A Love Letter to Food.

The Farm at South Mountain, 6106 S. 32nd Street, Phoenix, eventbrite.com, 10 to 11 a.m., $30.

Phoenix Suns vs. Charlotte Hornets

JANUARY 6 Sure there’s a basketball game, but it’s kids night and Gorilla’s birthday celebration!

Talking Stick Resort Arena,

201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.379.2000, nba.com/suns/tickets, 6 p.m., tickets start at $18.

only, fireworks. A portion of the ticket sales go to the United Way. Goodyear Ballpark, 1933 S. Ballpark Way, Goodyear, abcfest. com, 4 to 8 p.m. January 25, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. January 26, 7 to 10 a.m. January 27, $15. Active military and children 12 and younger are admitted free.

Havasu Balloon Festival and Fair

JANUARY 10 TO JANUARY 13 The Havasu Balloon Festival and Fair hosts 70-plus hot air balloons, food, entertainment and rides.

Check out the balloon glow, which features a DJ and emcee and will be choreographed to music.

Lake Havasu State Park, 699 London Bridge Road, Lake Havasu City, havasuballoonfest.com, noon to 10:30 p.m. January 10, 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. January 11, 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. January 12, 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.

January 13, tickets start at $15 at the Havasu Balloon Festival Store, 2109 McCulloch Boulevard, Unit 2, Lake Havasu, or at the gate.

The Music Man Jr. Auditions

JANUARY 12 The Music Man Jr. is a musical production based on Meredith Willson’s six-time Tony Awardwinning comedy about a fasttalking salesman who gets his heart stolen by the town librarian.

Auditions for this no-cut production are open to actors ages 6 to 18.

Musical Theatre of Anthem, 42201 N. 41st Drive, Suite B100, Anthem, musicaltheatreofanthem. org, 10:30 a.m., free.

Daddy Long Legs Auditions

JANUARY 12 Actors ages 16 and older are invited to audition for the musical stage production based on the novel that inspired the classic 1955 film about a witty and winsome young woman and her mysterious benefactor.

Musical Theatre of Anthem, 42201 N. 41st Drive, Suite B100, Anthem, musicaltheatreofanthem. org, noon, free.

Etiquette Classes

JANUARY 12, JANUARY 19, JANUARY 26, FEBRUARY 2 Certified etiquette instructor SueAnn Brown teaches children 9 to 12 to put down electronic gadgets and be mindful. The topics covered will include: introductions, handshaking, pleasantries, table skills and dining manners, grooming and posture, telephone etiquette and writing thank-you notes. Cost includes snacks, certificate and an etiquette reference book.

St. Bernard of Clairvaux Church, 10755 N. 124th Street Scottsdale, 480.510.6346, itsallaboutetiquette. com, 1 to 3 p.m., $250.

Arizona Balloon Classic

JANUARY 25 TO JANUARY 27 The sky will be filled with colorful hot-air balloons participating in the “Hare and Hound” race from the grassy fields of Goodyear Ballpark.

Spectators can walk on the field and experience the balloons’ inflation and liftoff. Other activities include the Desert Glow, prebooked hotair balloon rides, family fun zone, tethered rides and, on Saturday

Friendly Pines Information Night

JANUARY 31 Friendly Pines Camp’s Kevin Nissen discusses the benefits of attending the summer sleepaway camp in Prescott for kids ages 6 to 13. The camp offers a range of activities from horseback riding to performance. At this meeting, gifts and door prizes will be given away. The night is open to new and returning campers. The camp runs May 25 to July 20.

Courtyard by Marriott Scottsdale Salt River, 5201 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, 928.445.2128, friendlypines. com, 7 to 8:30 p.m., free.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2019

57

THE AUTOMOTIVE EVENT OF THE YEAR

JANUARY 12-20 | WESTWORLD P U R C H A S E Y O U R V I P PA C K A G E T O D AY Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale VIP Packages can include: Tickets to the Opening Night Gala, a complimentary bidder badge (with approved application), reserved seating, VIP suite with gourmet food, premium open bar and more!

BarrettJacksonVIP.com or 844.528.3598 ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

DARING TO 58

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

DREAM

Kia Sofia Szpak expects magic with ‘Disney on Ice’

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

K

ia Sofia Szpak is expecting something “magical” to happen when her skates hit the Talking Stick Resort Arena ice for Disney on Ice presents Dare to Dream January 17 to January 20.

Szpak was born in Scottsdale, grew up in Holland and attended college in Montreal. Still, she considers the Valley her home.

“My family moved to Holland when I was young,” she says. “I have family in Scottsdale. I love it there. It’s the hometown I feel most connected to.

“When I’m in Phoenix it’s a magical place. The desert is home for me. It feels right. It’s my favorite place in the world.

I think it’s the best state in the United States. I could go on.”

Szpak is an ensemble member in Disney on Ice presents Dare to Dream, which features Disney’s Moana for the first time in a live production. Hosts Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse take audiences on an expedition across raging seas and snow-

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covered mountains in this show with characters from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Frozen, Tangled and Cinderella.

In her Disney on Ice debut, Moana goes on a high-seas adventure with demigod Maui, to save her island and discover her true identity. The show also sees Belle befriending the enchanted castle staff and revealing the Beast’s gentleness. Anna’s devotion to her sister, Elsa, takes her on a life-changing journey to stop an eternal winter. Rapunzel, Flynn Ryder, Cinderella and friends from around the Disney Kingdom overcome obstacles and make their dreams come true.

Fans are encouraged to arrive early to celebrate family and tradition with a special sing-along with Miguel from Disney•Pixar’s Coco in a live preshow fiesta.

Szpak taps into several characters, such as Drizella, one of Cinderella’s evil stepsisters, a bathing beauty in Olaf’s summer number, and one of Moana’s villagers.

“It’s really incredible,” she says. “It’s

a great job. To play different characters is always fun. It’s new and fresh and ultimately it’s your own character you get to create.”

Performing comes naturally to Szpak.

She discovered ice skating when she accompanied her mother to the ice rink.

At age 9 she started ice skating, emulating the actions she saw on large posters of athletes.

“I would try out different things, like balancing on one foot,” she says. “It was pretty natural the way I started. My passion just grew because I never stopped.

I asked for lessons after about a year, but I was already doing these things on my own.”

Szpak started competing at 12, which is “pretty late in the figure skating world,” she adds. It was addictive from the get-go.

“I love the motion of spinning on the ice or in the air,” Szpak explains. “I love that dizziness you get. It sounds silly, but it’s one of the best feelings when you get to go really fast. It’s a beautiful feeling to be able to skate and feel the wind in your face. It’s

very poetic.”

While Szpak was learning to skate, she was acting in theater. After she graduated high school, she studied theater performance at Concordia University, from which she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts.

“Both of them were from a young age, and passions I knew I would be doing through the rest of my life,” she says. “I’m very happy with what I’m doing. I love the numbers and the show I get to do. I don’t know what I’ll be doing but performing and figure skating will always be part of my life.”

Disney on Ice presents Dare to Dream Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, disneyonice.com,various times Thursday, January 17, to Sunday, January 20, tickets start at $20.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2019

MUSIC

59

LISTEN » JAM » INNOVATE » EVOLVE » ROCK » SING

A Musical Journey

Sara Robinson finds her way ‘Home’

S

ara Robinson has never felt more at home, whether it’s with her bluesy-rock sound or her band members.

“This is the most excited I’ve ever been throughout my musical journey,” Robinson says. “This is everything I’ve ever wanted in terms of band members and music. I have the perfect group right now.”

All of this is packaged into the act’s second album, the appropriately monikered Only Home.

“It feels like this band and this music we’re creating is my home,” says the Glendale native. “The guys can relate to that as well. Where ever you go in life, whatever happens, music is our safe zone. You’re at home.”

She and her band – guitarist Yod Paul, drummer Stan Bosch and bassist PC Cardone – will celebrate the release at Last Exit Live on Saturday, January 19.

“We’re not going to have any other artists on the bill,” she says. “It’s going to be a night of Sara Robinson Band. At the

door, we’re going to hand out pamphlets – almost like playbills – with what you’re going to expect.”

Fans can expect to hear her first album in its entirety, an intermission, five acoustic songs, an intermission and all of Only Home.

“We’re going to do everything Sara Robinson Band is and ever was,” she says with a laugh. “It’s going to be neat and different.”

Robinson was born and raised in Glendale while her band members are from Tempe. She attended Ironwood High School briefly before she persuaded her parents to home school her so she could pursue music.

“I would go to open mic nights on Tuesdays and Thursdays to learn the craft and be up until about 3 or 4 in the morning,” she recalls. “It became too hard to go to normal school. My parents said they loved me and supported me, and they’ve been there ever since.”

She honed those skills at the Satisfied Frog, Harold’s and “all the little cute

places in Cave Creek.”

“I put my feelers out there and learned how to play to a crowd, and learned what a 12-bar blues turnaround even meant,” she adds. “That was when I was 15 to maybe 16 or 17. I was networking and did a couple projects throughout the years and had some pretty good success.”

Thanks to her drummer father, Robinson, 25, grew up on “great music,” influenced by Paul Rodgers, Bonnie Raitt, Amy Winehouse, Aretha Franklin and Gladys Knight. Equally as inspirational were Robert Plant and the Allman Brothers.

“Dirty, gritty Southern rock is what I hold on to,” she says.

For Only Home, Robinson recorded the drums and bass at Stem Recording Studio with Curtis Grippe. Bosch

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski >> The Entertainer!

handled the rest of it.

“He had this secret talent of being an amazing producer,” Robinson says of Bosch. “He said, ‘Let me try and record some of these.’ It sounded like another awesome record that had been professionally done. This was his first take on recording a full album. It was incredible.”

Ask Robinson what she would like to accomplish and she’s stumped. A year ago, she would have said an album like Only Home.

“I grew up on all these different influences and journeys throughout my music,” she says. “I was looking for my home and what fits perfectly, in terms of my sound, the songs I write, and the people I’m around. It would be this album.”

Sara Robinson Band Last Exit Live, 717 S. Central Avenue, Phoenix, 602.271.7000, lastexitlive. com, 8 p.m. Saturday, January 19, $10-$20.

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

JANUARY 9

The Rhythm Room, 6 to 7:30 p.m., $25

Francine Reed

JANUARY 12

ASU Kerr Cultural Center, 7:30 p.m., $10-$39

gnash

LIVE MUSIC

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $20-$25

CALENDAR

Connor Dziawura >> The Entertainer!

JANUARY 1 The Hot Sardines

Musical Instrument Museum, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., $33.50-$43.50

JANUARY 2 NO SHOWS SCHEDULED

JANUARY 3

Tribute Festival featuring live bands covering the Cure, Duran Duran, New Order and the Smiths The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $15-$20

Lukie D

Rialto Theatre, 8 p.m., $22

Special EFX All-Stars w/Chieli Minucci, Eric Marienthal, Karen Briggs, Lao Tizer, Gene Coye, Ric Fierabracci

Jag

Pub Rock Live, 8 p.m., $12-$15

King Tuff

Club Congress, 8 p.m., $15-$17

Lucky Devils

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., free

JANUARY 10 Danielle Durack w/Sydney Sprague, Lighthouse, Faun Flora Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $10-$12

Jackie Evancho

Fox Tucson Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $34-$84

Joey Alexander

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 and 9 p.m., $33.50-$53.50

The Undercover Dream Lovers

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $43.50-$53.50

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $10-$12

The Rogue Bar, 8 p.m., $10

JANUARY 6

El Ten Eleven

Leo Kottke

2000 Foot Turtle

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $15-$18

The Amity Affliction w/Senses Fail

Pub Rock Live, 7 p.m., $10-$12

Sunny Side w/Breaking Bones, No Lungs

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $48.50-$53.50

JANUARY 4 Fake a Home

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $12-$14

Geocentric

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., free

Joe Peña

Last Exit Live, 9 p.m., $7-$10

Leo Kottke

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $48.50-$53.50

Shadow Guilt

Club Red, 6 p.m., $10-$13

JANUARY 5

The Rebel Lounge, 7:30 p.m., $5-$7 The Van Buren, 7 p.m., $25-$29

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

JANUARY 7 John Sebastian

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $43.50-$53.50

JANUARY 8 John Sebastian

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $43.50-$53.50

JANUARY 11 The Epherial

Kindread w/Kill Babylon Coalition Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $10

Melvins

The Rebel Lounge, 8:30 p.m., $20-$25

Michael LeDonne Groover Quartet

The Nash, 7 and 9:15 p.m., $11-$49

Styx

Celebrity Theatre, 8 p.m., $49-$350

Tom Petty’s Wildflowers Tribute Last Exit Live, 9 p.m., $12-$15

Walter Trout Band

Mesa Arts Center’s Piper Repertory Theater, 7:30 p.m., $40

Andreilien w/Mindex

Last Exit Live, 8 p.m., $13-$15

Crazy Town w/Lethal Injektion Club Red – East, 6 p.m., $12

Mother Mother

Crescent Ballroom, 7:30 p.m., $25-$35

Paul Thorn

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $40.50-$45.50

Stubborn Old Bastard w/Scattered Guts, Magguts, Hell Follows, Never Reborn, Skoville The Rock, 6 p.m., $8-$10

Styx

Celebrity Theatre, 8 p.m., $49-$350

The Temptations w/The Four Tops

Comerica Theatre, 8 p.m., $49.50-$213.50

Walter Trout Band

The Rhythm Room, 6 to 7:30 p.m., $25

West by Northwest

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $8-$25

Zeppelin USA: An American Tribute to Led Zeppelin The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $23-$42

JANUARY 13 88 Fingers Louie

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $16-$18

Jam Session: Ioannis Goudelis

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

Marmalade Skies

The Rhythm Room, 4 p.m., $15

Sunday A’Fair

Scottsdale Civic Center Park, noon to 4 p.m., free

JANUARY 14

Holiday Hangover: an ’80s

Peter Murphy: 40 Years of Bauhaus

THE VAN BUREN 8 P.M. FRIDAY, JANUARY 25, $40-$45 Bela Lugosi’s still dead, and Bauhaus’ music is still revered as some of the best to emerge from the ’80s. Now, one of the most enigmatic and legendary frontmen in goth rock is returning to the Valley for a show at The Van Buren. This time bringing along David J, the original bassist for the pair’s influential band, vocalist Peter Murphy will celebrate the band’s 40th anniversary. The four-decade celebration will include a front-to-back performance of Bauhaus’ acclaimed debut, In the Flat Field, as well as an extended encore of other memorable cuts spanning the band’s catalog. Though tickets start at $40, those who splurge $240 will also get to meet and take a photo with Murphy and J, listen to the soundcheck and receive a T-shirt.

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A.J. Croce: Croce plays Croce

Amen Dunes

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $15-$24

Disturbed

Gila River Arena, 7:30 p.m., $38.75-$143.10

Kathleen Grace w/Larry Goldings

Club Congress, 7:30 p.m., $35-$45

JANUARY 15 Bayside: Acoustic Tour

Crescent Ballroom, 8:30 p.m., $22-$26

JANUARY 16 The Brother Brothers

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $20.50-$30.50

Eugene Hideaway Bridges

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2019

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

The Flesh Eaters

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $27-$30

I’ve Been Everywhere: The Johnny Cash Roadshow

DesertView Performing Arts Center, 7:30 p.m., $30

Magos Herrera Quartet w/Jane Bunnett, Maqueque

Fox Tucson Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $29-$49

Not My Weekend

51 West, 7 p.m., $10-$12

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61

Mae

Stavros Halkias

Corb Lund

Portland Cello Project: Radiohead’s OK Computer

The Sugar Thieves

Magic Giant

JANUARY 20

Randy Linder: A Tribute to Creedence Clearwater Revival

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $22-$89

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $38.50-$48.50

Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue

Centennial Hall, 8 p.m., $30-$80

JANUARY 19 8123 Fest w/The Maine, Mayday Parade, We the Kings, Real Friends, The Technicolors, This Century, Teenage Wrist

Valley Bar, noon, $18-$20 The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $10

8123 Fest w/This Century Crescent Ballroom, 6 p.m., $15

Bobby McFerrin: Circlesongs

191 Toole, 8 p.m., $15-$17 Crescent Ballroom, 7:30 p.m., $17-$20

DesertView Performing Arts Center, 7:30 p.m., $30

Fox Tucson Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $49-$79

Rivals.

Booker T. Jones

Tommy Castro and the Painkillers

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $48.50-$53.50

Club Red, 7 p.m., $10-$13

Dawes

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $33.50-$43.50

American Crossroads Trio: David Bromberg, Larry Campbell and David Hidalgo

Frankie Valli

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $12

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

Crescent Ballroom, 7:30 p.m., $29-$30

Pink Martini

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $12

The Districts

Bobby Bryant Metalfest II w/Wrath Upon Eden, Fifth Density, Unholy Monarch, Flying Scorpion, Betrayal of Allies

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $15

Club Red, 6 p.m., $10-$13

Kristin Chenoweth

Booker T. Jones

Chandler Center for the Arts’ Bogle Theatre, 3 p.m., $32-$38

Underground, 6 p.m., $15-$17

JANUARY 17 Alison Brown

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $33.50-$43.50

Ally Venable Band

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

Asleep at the Wheel

Fox Tucson Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $29-$49

Tucson Music Hall, 7:30 p.m., $56-$200

Mustard Plug w/The Phenomenauts

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $15-$18

Reverend Horton Heat

Marquee Theatre, 7 p.m., $20-$45

Ryan Hunt

Phoenix Civic Park Space, noon, $45-$149.99

Rialto Theatre, 8 p.m., $32-$42

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $48.50-$53.50

Drums on the Lake: Joe Labarbera w/Dom Moio

Tempe Center for the Arts Lakeside, 7:30 p.m., $37

Frankie Valli

The Rebel Lounge, 7:30 p.m., $8-$10

Celebrity Theatre, 8 p.m., $76.70-$141.85

JANUARY 18

Judy Roberts and Rebecca Kilgore

8123 Fest w/The Maine

The Van Buren, 7 p.m., sold out

Chrome Sparks

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $18-$21

ISAIAHSHEMAR

Underground, 5:45 p.m., $12-$15

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $11-$49

Pink Martini

Tucson Music Hall, 7:30 p.m., $30-$195

Sara Robinson Band

Last Exit Live, 8 p.m., $10-$20

Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark

RIALTO THEATRE 8 P.M. TUESDAY, JANUARY 22, $35-$105 British synthpop outfit Orchestra Manoeuvres in the Dark (sometimes known simply as OMD) never truly made as big a splash in the United States as it did in its home country of England. Sure, the group – which generally features the trio of Andy McCluskey, Paul Humphreys and Martin Cooper at its core – has had its fair share of hits, from Pretty in Pink’s “If You Leave” to other ’80s gems like “Dreaming” and “(Forever) Live and Die,” but its most revered output, from singles like “Enola Gay” to popular albums like Organisation and Architecture & Morality and experimental forays like Dazzle Ships, were more impactful in the United Kingdom. Though that may be the case when looking at the Billboard charts, the four-decades-old band’s output has remained steady, and its legacy is etched in stone. OMD will return to Tucson for its first Southern Arizona show since 1986 and tickets range from $35 to $40. For $100 to $105, purchasers will get a ticket to the show, plus a meet and greet with the group and dialogue with KXCI’s Elva de la Torre at the Museum of Contemporary Art Tucson from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday, January 19.

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $32.50-$36 Celebrity Theatre, 7 p.m., $76.70-$141.85

Jam Session: Dave Henning

Wild Moccasins w/Dega

JANUARY 24 Corrosion of Conformity Front Country

Remember Patsy Cline

The Gunrunners w/ Critical Miss, El Googly Diablo

Remember Sports

Martin Taylor w/Laurence Juber

Tucson Music Hall, 2 p.m., $30-$87

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $12

Sunday A’Fair

Scottsdale Civic Center Park, noon to 4 p.m., free

Sumac

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

JANUARY 21 Dakh Daughters

The Rogue Bar, 8 p.m., $5

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $35.50-$45.50

Tom Russell

Club Congress, 7 p.m., $30

JANUARY 25 Don McLean w/Al Stewart

Fox Tucson Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $35-$89

The Fab Four

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $38.50-$48.50

Mesa Arts Center’s Ikeda Theater, 8 p.m., $29.50-$59.50

JANUARY 22

Highlands Church, 7:30 p.m., $34-$76

Dash

Human Nature

Ensiferum

Kris Kristofferson and the Strangers

Club Red, 6 p.m., $27-$30

Celebrity Theatre, 8 p.m., $38-$60

Flor de Toloache

The Mammoth Ensemble

191 Toole, 8 p.m., $14

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $10-$20

Gabriel Kahane’s 8980: Book of Travelers

Whitey Morgan

Club Congress, 7:30 p.m., free

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $28.50-$33.50

JJ Grey and Mofro

Rialto Theatre, 8 p.m., $25-$85

JANUARY 26 Ana Popovic

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts’ Virginia G. Piper Theater, 7:30 p.m., $32-$40

The Showroom at Talking Stick Resort, 8 p.m., $25-$35

JANUARY 23

Mesa Arts Center’s Ikeda Theater, 8 p.m., $38

Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness

The Van Buren, 7 p.m., $32.50-$35

Branford Marsalis Quartet

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts’ Virginia G. Piper Theater, 7:30 p.m., $39-$69

Ben and Noel Haggard Elton John

Gila River Arena, 8 p.m., $931.10

Greg Brown

191 Toole, 7:30 p.m., $35-$40

Hockey Dad w/Hunny

Club Congress, 7:30 p.m., $15

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UPFRONT | CITY | THE DOWNTOWNER | TRAVEL | ARTS | DINING | BEER AND WINE | CASINOS | SPORTS | FAMILY | MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE | IN CLOSING 62 John Stowell Johnny A. JANUARY 29

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $8-$25

Marty Friedman

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $28.50-$33.50

The Rebel Lounge, 8:30 p.m., $23-$73

Motive

RKCB w/Shoffy

Sunday A’Fair

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $15-$17

Supersuckers

Green Room, 7 p.m., $16-$18

The Tapestry Album: Live in Concert – The Music of Carol King

Green Room, 5 p.m., $8 Scottsdale Civic Center Park, noon to 4 p.m., free

JANUARY 28

Aaron Johnson

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $5-$10

Duster

Club Congress, 8 p.m., $15

George Winston

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

Hippo Campus w/Now, Now

The Black Market Trust

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $25-$27

DesertView Performing Arts Center, 7:30 p.m., $30

Elvin Bishop’s Big Fun Trio

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $35-$40

JANUARY 27

Herb Alpert and Lani Hall

Carvin Jones Band

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

Francine Reed

The Nash, 3 p.m., $16-$36

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

Club Congress, 7:30 p.m., $15-$18 Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $53.50-$73.50 Highlands Church, 7:30 p.m., $34-$76

Thursday: War All the Time

JANUARY 30 Blackberry Smoke

Marquee Theatre, 8 p.m., $32.50-$62.50

Seven Spires w/AfterTime, Painting Fences

The Booze Bombs w/ The Magnificent Day Drinkers

Thursday: Full Collapse

James Armstrong Band

The Rogue Bar, 8 p.m., $10

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $35-$40

Warbly Jets

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $12

JANUARY 31 Badfish: A Tribute to Sublime The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $18-$20

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy

Fox Tucson Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $29-$74

Brigitte Purdy

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

Drama

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $12-$15

Lizz Wright

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $43.50-$53.50

William Fitzsimmons

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $20-$22

Green Room, 9 p.m., $8-$10

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

Turkuaz

Last Exit Live, 8 p.m., $18-$20

AND THE

BIG WILD JUNGLE

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Say ‘Oui’ to Pink Martini THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2019

Pop-jazz collective brings flavors of the world to Chandler Alan Sculley >> The Entertainer!

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s his group, Pink Martini, continues to tour behind its latest album, Jes dis oui!, frontman/ pianist Thomas Lauderdale sounds downright astonished that he still gets to follow his musical inspirations and make a living in the process.

“We’ve been going for 23 years,” Lauderdale says, reflecting on his Pink Martini journey, which brings it to the Chandler Center for the Arts on Friday, January 18. “On paper it’s preposterous. It seems so implausible for a band playing this kind of music and traveling the world for 23 years would actually be able to function. But here we are. We’re very lucky.”

The musical niche Lauderdale and Pink Martini have carved is indeed unlike any other in pop music. The group’s music traverses a spectrum that takes in vintage and contemporary pop, jazz, classical and a range of international styles. The songs are sung in a host of languages – with Jes dis oui! spanning French, Farsi, Armenian, Portuguese, Arabic, Turkish, Xhosa and last, but not least, English.

The musical mix begins to make sense when one learns a little about Lauderdale’s background and upbringing.

“I’m the oldest of four adopted children.

My parents were white, but they adopted a multicultural family,” he says. “My father went back and forth between being a minister and being a plant nurseryman. So I spent a lot of time both in the church and also growing up on a plant nursery in Indiana. After church services, I would go up to the piano and pound out the hymns that I had heard during the service. My parents sort of took it as a sign.

“So I started piano lessons when I was 6, and my parents aren’t really very musical. They listen to music. They had an original tape player. There were six things that really were my childhood soundtrack. They were Ray Conniff, Ray Charles, Roger Miller, the New Christy Minstrels, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and the soundtrack to Jesus Christ Superstar. That was my childhood.

That coupled with the fact that I studied a couple of different languages and classical music and also loved sort of like show tunes, from like Rogers & Hammerstein, those are the influences. And what you get really is Pink Martini, from all of that.”

Lauderdale did not initially see music as a career option. After attending Harvard University, he moved to Portland, Oregon, and had an eye on a future in politics.

“I was working at city hall when I was in high school and even throughout college and beyond college,” he says. “My goal was really to become mayor of Portland. That was my hope.”

As part of his preparations to run for office, Lauderdale attended fundraisers for various political campaigns and progressive causes. One thing he noticed was that the musical groups hired for these events left a lot to be desired. He saw that as an opportunity to put his musical background to work.

So in 1994, Lauderdale formed Pink Martini, feeling a style built around a mix of retro pop, classical, jazz and world music would provide a

more beautiful and inclusive soundtrack to political fundraisers than the music he was hearing at those events. Pink Martini’s music began to take, and Lauderdale’s political ambitions began to fade.

“Pretty soon it became kind of clear it was maybe much more fabulous to play music and get applause every night and make people happy, as opposed to working under fluorescent lighting and meeting angry constituents every day,” he says.

It didn’t take long for Lauderdale to start envisioning a future for Pink Martini that went beyond playing fundraisers.

A step in Pink Martini’s development came a year into the group’s activities, when Lauderdale contacted a Harvard classmate, singer China Forbes, and asked her to join the group.

The two soon found they shared a songwriting chemistry, and in 1997, Pink Martini released its debut album, Sympathique, on the group’s label, Heinz Records.

Eventually, the album caught on internationally, and in France the group was nominated for best new artist and “Sympathique” was nominated for Song of the Year at 2000’s France’s Victoires de la Musique Awards.

As Pink Martini moved forward, the group regularly released albums before branching into a pair of unique collaborative projects. In 2011, the group released 1969, an album featuring Japanese singer Saori Yuki. Then in 2014, Pink Martini released Dream a Little Dream, a collaboration with Sofia, Melanie, Amanda and August von Trapp, the great-grandchildren of Captain and Maria von Trapp, who were made famous by the musical

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The Sound of Music. Those two projects were sandwiched around the 2013 Pink Martini album Get Happy.

As the group, up to a dozen-plus musicians and singers in its lineup, plays shows behind Je dis oui!, Pink Martini has built a catalog that boasts several gold albums and album sales of more than 3 million.

Je dis oui! (“I say yes” in French) continues to build on the group’s accomplishments. It features a lively global pastiche of original songs and outside tunes ranging from Cole Porter’s “Love For Sale” to “Kaj Kohla Khan (“The Tough Guy with the Crooked Hat”), a song made famous by the popular Iranian singer/actress Googoosh.

The album features a host of vocalists, including Forbes, Storm Large, Rufus Wainwright, Ari Shapiro (of NPR’s All Things Considered fame), fashion designing icon Ikram Goldman and civil rights activist Kathleen Saadat. The musical range includes sprightly French pop (“Joli garcon”), the African-flavored “Pata Pata” (a hit in the 1960s for South African star Miriam Makeba), classically tinged hybrids (the classical/Latin fusion of “Finnisma Di”) and the Middle Eastern-spiced “Al Bint Al Shalabiya.”

Lauderdale considers Je dis oui! a particularly cheerful album that reflected the positive place he and the band have reached in life and their musical journey and how easily the material came together in the studio.

“I’m happier than I’ve been in years. I feel pretty comfortable in my life (right now),” Lauderdale says. “So that’s reflected in the music.”

Pink Martini Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Avenue, Chandler, 480.782.2680, chandlercenter.org, 7:30 p.m. Friday, January 18, $46$76.

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

‘Can’t Stop Won’t Stop’ Kristine Cannon >> The Entertainer!

“Girls do what they want/Whoa, whoa/Boys do what they ca-an!”

Any The Maine fan knows this is one of the Arizona-based alt-rockers’ most popular songs from their seemingly timeless debut album, Can’t Stop Won’t Stop. And for the first – and last – time, The Maine will perform the album in its entirety at its 8123 Fest on January 19.

“Arizona is such a special place for us, and we sing about it in our songs, so the best place to debut anything that we have that’s new or to do this festival is here,” drummer Pat Kirch says.

In addition to Kirch, the quintet is comprised of frontman and lead vocalist John O'Callaghan, bass guitarist Garrett Nickelsen and guitarists Jared Monaco and Kennedy Brock.

“The timing always ends up being based around what we’re doing at the time,” Kirch adds.

And that’s exactly why The Maine waited two years to piece together an even larger festival for 2019.

The first 8123 Fest, named after the band’s collective, was held in January 2017, timed to celebrate The Maine’s 10-year anniversary. The second fest, which will take place at The Van Buren in downtown Phoenix from January 18 to January 20, is strategically timed to celebrate the 10year anniversary of Can’t Stop Won’t Stop, which debuted the summer of 2008.

“We decided, let’s (play the debut album) this one time, and I think that makes it more of a special thing for the people that do come,” Kirch says.

“We don’t like to spend too much time in the past because that is time we can use to focus on making the

next record.”

Don’t expect the band to be recording anytime soon, though.

The Maine just finished recording its seventh album, which is expected to release in the spring. It’s currently being mastered.

For now, the band remains reasonably tight-lipped about the new album, but Kirch was able to tease that album No. 7 is steeped with “older influences” and that it’s “very energetic” and “in your face.”

“We got really excited about listening and being inspired by the

The Maine expands 8123 Fest to heed fans’ requests album, Lovely Little Lonely, released in April 2017, was met with critical acclaim and rave reviews from music journalists and fans.

And the band certainly felt that weight to exceed expectations.

“We made the past couple of albums that we’ve been super happy with and so it was just a lot of pressure,” Kirch says. “But when we got past that, it was easy. It just took a couple months to get the first song that we were excited about.”

Will The Maine perform a new track at the upcoming 8123 Fest, though? Kirch isn’t telling.

“We’re still getting done with some stuff, so it’s kind of up in the air,” he says. “But I will say, that would be really fun.”

But what 8123 Fest attendees can expect is an even bigger festival for round two.

introduced at the first festival. As part of this philanthropic initiative, artists and fans within the 8123 Family give back to the community via various charitable efforts.

So far, 8123 Impact has hosted a handful of events since its inception in 2017.

And during the weekend of 8123 Fest, a group of about 250 fans from across the country and around the world will fly in to not only attend the festival, but also volunteer at local homeless shelter and food banks.

“That’s the big thing for this year, helping out as much as we can after the holidays and taking advantage of the fact that we’re having people from all around the world in Arizona who can help out the community when they’re here,” Kirch says.

The Maine also takes 8123 Impact on the road with them.

“Before our shows, the fans get together and do something good for the community,” Kirch says. “We’re doing a lot of international touring next year, and we’re going to put some attention there all around the world, which is something we haven’t had a chance to accomplish yet.”

Tickets for 8123 Fest are still available at 81-23.com. And if you can’t make it this year, don’t worry; there’s always 2021.

“Every other year is the pace we’ll continue to do this at,” Kirch assures.

“We don’t like to spend too much time in the past because that is time we can use to focus on making the next record.”

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things that inspired us, like when we were in high school and getting excited by hearing bands for the first time,” Kirch says. “There’s an energy to that that you can only get at that time period in your life. We tried to capture some of that.”

It’s this energy that’ll heavily influence The Maine’s upcoming national and international tour, which starts on April 2 in Germany and will conclude on June 16 in Brazil.

“Once (fans) hear the new record, they’ll understand that we’re hitting on something we haven’t before, and it’s going to translate to make the tour way more exciting,” Kirch says. “The songs are bigger and louder and more epic.”

The first songs the band recorded for the new album were in the making for two and a half years.

“It was challenging at first,” Kirch says of the recording process. “It was hard to figure out what to do next.”

The Maine’s sixth

“Last year, we sold out like a week and a half in advance,” Kirch said.

“This time, we made everything way, way bigger.”

This year’s lineup includes The Technicolors, This Century, We the Kings, Teenage Wrist and Mayday Parade. And the day before the festival, The Maine will perform an intimate set of songs requested by fans.

Other supporting events include two “Make America Emo Again” after parties on January 19, and This Century will perform its debut 2011 album, Sound of Fire, on January 20.

In addition to live music, 8123 Fest will have a pop-up shop, a free meet and greet, The Maine Market, which features handmade 8123 items by fans and for fans, an after party and 8123 Impact nonprofit volunteering events.

8123 Impact was

8123 Fest The Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren Street, and Crescent Ballroom, 308 N. Second Avenue, Phoenix, 480.659.1641 and 602.716.2222, 81-23.com, various times Friday, January 18, to Sunday, January 20, $15-$45.

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2019

NIGHTLIFE

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SIP » UNLEASH » MIX » MINGLE » PULSE » SHAKE

THE BEST NIGHTLIFE EVENTS FOR JANUARY Connor Dziawura >> The Entertainer!

Afterglow XI – Decadence Arizona Afterparty

JANUARY 1 Green Velvet returns to the Valley to host this Decadence afterparty.

Be sure to pick up a $25 add-on ticket and send 2018 off the right way, by sticking around into the early hours of the morning. Green Velvet will be supported by Juheun, Michael Hooker, Michelle Sparks and Thomas Turner. The main festival wristband is required in addition to an afterparty ticket.

This event is 18 and older.

Rawhide Event Center, 5700 W. North Loop Road, Chandler, relentlessbeats.com, 2 a.m.

Tuesday, January 1, $25.

Violent J and Esham

Drive, Mesa, 480.200.7529, clubredrocks.com, 8 p.m.

Friday, January 11, $20-$25.

Cookie Monsta

JANUARY 12 It’s 2019, and dubstep isn’t out of fashion just yet, no matter what some may say. Bringing his heavy, grimy sounds to the Mill Avenue’s Aura nightclub is Nottingham-based DJ/producer Tony Cook, perhaps best known under the moniker Cookie Monsta. But one thing’s sure – there will likely be plenty of blown-out bass and pulsing wubs to go around. This show is 18 and older.

Aura, 411 S. Mill Avenue, Suite 201, Tempe, 480.210.2872, relentlessbeats.com, 9 p.m., $15-$30.

Josh Wink

JANUARY 3 AND JANUARY 11 Can I get a whoop whoop? One half of the Insane Clown Posse, Violent J, is heading to Arizona for two shows at the top of the year. And he’s bringing fellow Michigander Esham (pictured) along for the ride. The first show is set in Tucson for January 3, with the horrorcore purveyors heading to Mesa a little over a week later. The Rock event is all ages.

The Club Red show is 13 and older.

The Rock, 136 N. Park Avenue, Tucson, 520.629.9211, rocktucson.com, 8 p.m.

Thursday, January 3, $20-$25.

JANUARY 19 Longtime Philadelphian DJ and producer Josh Wink is coming to Shady Park. Considered to be a pioneer of a variety of electronic music styles ranging from house to techno and everywhere in between, Wink’s set will be one to get the crowd going.

This show is 21 and older.

Shady Park, 26 E. University Drive, Tempe, 480.474.4222, shadyparktempe. com, 9 p.m., $15.

Club Red, 1306 W. University

JANUARY 19

Make America Emo Again Afterparty

The Maine-curated 8123 Fest is more than just a one-day event.

Though it begins on January 18 with a sold-out show at the Van Buren where The Maine performs fanselected songs, the festival itself brings a massive stacked lineup of bands to Civic Space Park on January 19. But that’s just the start of many events that week. The real party, however, is the evening of January 19 – er, should I say parties?

One afterparty, at the Van Buren, is already sold out, but a second one is still available at Crescent Ballroom. So if you’re looking to bring emo music back into the limelight, you’ll want to stick around late into the evening. The Van Buren event is all ages, but the Crescent Ballroom event is 21 and older.

The Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren Street, Phoenix, 480.659.1641, 81-23.com/ fest, 10 p.m., sold out.

JID

JANUARY 31 Just a day after Bas, his acclaimed fellow Dreamville cohort JID is heading to Tucson. Still high off the acclaim of his sophomore album, DiCaprio 2, this Atlanta wordsmith is viewed as one of hip-hop’s brighest up-and-coming talents – and for good reason. With his conceptual songs and tongue-twisting flows, Southern Arizonans won’t want to miss out on a chance to join JID on his Catch Me If You Can Tour at the intimate 191 Toole before he undoubtedly upgrades to larger venues. This show is all ages.

191 Toole, 191 E. Toole Avenue, Tucson, 520.445.6425, 191toole.com, 8 p.m., $20-$99.

Crescent Ballroom, 308 N. Second Avenue, Phoenix, 602.716.2222, 81-23. com/fest, 10 p.m., $15.

Bas

JANUARY 30 Dreamville signee Bas drew quite a bit of attention in 2016 with the release of his sophomore album, Too High to Riot, which featured collaborations with the likes of labelmates J. Cole and Cozz. This year, he returned with a follow-up effort entitled Milky Way. Those looking for a return to lyrics-based raps shouldn’t miss out when this lyricist performs at Crescent Ballroom in late January. Rexx, Life Raj, Innanet James and Correy C are set to open. This show is 16 and over.

Crescent Ballroom, 308 N. Second Avenue, Phoenix, 602.716.2222, crescentphx. com, 8 p.m., $20-$25.

Aaron Carter

JANUARY 31 Come get it, everyone. Aaron’s party is back. Closing out the month of January is none other than Aaron Carter. Though famed for hits he sang as a child such as “I Want Candy” and “That’s How I Beat Shaq,” Carter has plenty of other material to draw from when he returns to the Valley considering he released his LØVË, his first album in 16 years, last February. Xavier Toscano is set to open. This show is 18 and older.

Pub Rock Live, 8005 E. Roosevelt Street, Phoenix, 480.945.4985, pubrocklive. com, 9 p.m., $15-$60.

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

MAD

MIXOLOGIST

Getting down and dirty with the Valley’s hottest shot slingers Alison Bailin Batz >> The Entertainer!

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rizona native Kevin Ferguson grew up the ultimate Disney devotee.

He dreamt of one day working for the “House of Mouse,” in fact. But, when he took a high school job at Mimi’s Café – where served President and Mrs. George H.W. Bush, randomly – and then a job at Earl’s, he was intrigued by the hospitality field.

By 2012, he was ready for the big time.

Enter The Four Seasons Scottsdale Resort Troon North, where he spent five years working in their concepts, including Proof Canteen. It was at the Four Seasons he found his calling, thanks in part to one of his mentors, Four Seasons Food and Beverage Director Bryan Feigenbaum.

For Proof, Feigenbaum focused on having exactly 50 beers, 50 wines and 50 spirits in-house. This gave Ferguson the chance to hone in on specific brands, especially wine, which became a passion.

Within a year, he had his level-one and -two certifications, and he is working toward the coveted advanced sommelier designation. He also focused on craft cocktails, spirit by spirit.

Ferguson left the Four Seasons in 2016, and after a quick stop at Farm & Craft, took the position of assistant beverage manager at the Wrigley Mansion in 2017.

Within a few months, he earned the lead position. The cocktail program is meant to be elegant and simple, but also a touch whimsical. Case in point: he has “buildyour-own old fashioned” and “build-yourown mule” options on the menu. Oh, and boozy popsicles are perfect even in the winter months.

ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

Chosen Cocktail recipe Juicy Fruit daiquiri

2 ounces Don Q Pineapple Rum 1/5 ounce lime juice 1/5 ounce simple syrup 2 dashes St. Elizabeth Allspice He sees his role as a guide at the venue, be it to the perfect wine, beer or cocktail experience. And his role is only getting bigger at The Wrigley Mansion prepares for a massive expansion, reimagination and new concepts in 2019.

We sat down with Ferguson to talk spirits, cocktails and everything in between: Tell me about the oddest drink request you’ve had.

A certain celebrity who will go unnamed – who was popular in the 1990s and in action movies, but never as big as Sly, Arnold or Bruce Willis – required I find a very specific brand and type of tea for a cocktail he wanted made using it. But that wasn’t the weird part – he required we make the tea exactly six hours before combining it into the cocktail. Six hours. Oh, and he would only allow the chef to make the cocktail once my team and I gathered all the proper items (and made that tea). Chefs don’t even make cocktails.

That wasn’t here at Wrigley, however.

My Wrigley Mansion story is a good one, too. Some people don’t know, but today the Hormel family – founders of Spam – owns the Wrigley Mansion. Given the Spam connection, we’ve done dinners using the ingredient. And on those nights, I don a full Spam suit (yes, I had one

made) and pair drinks with Spam. So, while not an ingredient in the cocktails, it’s certainly an interesting and fun one to pair with cocktails for sure.

What is your No. 1 pet peeve when working?

We strive in every way to make a trip to the Wrigley Mansion an experience for our guests. We have a lounge, wine bar, patio and full restaurant all developed with care, attention to detail and with the guest in mind. But, every so often we get a guest who wants to change elements and ingredients to the point where our vision is long gone. While that would be OK if they were happy with the result, more often than not they end up complaining the item they altered isn’t right anymore.

I love when guests trust us to give them the full Wrigley experience, because we always deliver.

What is your go-to drink when you’re at a bar other than your own?

I am such a beer guy. IPAs are a passion of mine. I am especially into IPAs from Stone Brewing, Ninkasi Brewing Company and Modern Times. When it comes to spirits and cocktails, I love tequila straight and good margaritas.

Then, for wine, it gets tricky. I mentioned I am a Disney nerd, right? So, Star Wars is part of Disney now. In Star Wars, true Jedis are never supposed to find true love.

As a wine Jedi of sorts, I can’t possible have one true love. I really do love all wines.

What does ordering a vodka tonic say about a person?

Oh man, I am going Star Wars again here! It says they are Han Solo. No frills.

Maybe a bit rough around the edges. But likely totally loveable.

Tell us about the beverage program at the Wrigley Mansion.

Our cocktail program is divided into experiences at the Wrigley Mansion. First, we have Geordie’s Bar and Lounge. There, we have signature cocktails as well as amazing wine and beer options. Think of that as a great place for happy hour or to either start/end the night. Then, we have Geordie’s Restaurant, which boasts the largest wine menu in Arizona. We are one of the only restaurants in Arizona to earn the coveted “Best of Excellence” by Wine Spectator Magazine, in fact (this is not to be confused with the regular “Award of Excellence,” by the way). And finally, we have Jaime’s Wine Bar, a cozy nook with a fireplace and plush booths perfect for date night or one final drink before heading home.

What is one cocktail would love for us to feature in the magazine this month?

I’d like to spotlight the Juicy Fruit daiquiri ($13).

What do you like about this drink?

For those who don’t know, Juicy Fruit gum is owned by Wrigley, so this is our homage to the Wrigley name and brand – we even garnish it with a piece of Juicy Fruit!

Wrigley Mansion 2501 E. Telawa Trail, Phoenix 602.955.4079 wrigleymansion.com

THE ENTERTAINER! MAGAZINE JANUARY 2019

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LIKE A PHOENIX

Buffalo Chip welcomes guests who embraced it after a devastating fire Heather Copfer >> The Entertainer!

B

uffalo Chip Saloon and Steakhouse owner Larry Wendt says the days of bars throwing their doors open to guests who just come in and drink are over.

“I think you’ve got to give them added value for the money they’re spending,” he says. “You know, if they’re going to spend $4 for that beer, they better get something with it.”

Cave Creek’s Buffalo Chip – ‘The Chip’ for short – is a restaurant, dance hall, mini-rodeo and all-things western. Originally a feed-and-bait shop that opened in 1951, The Chip has grown from an 800-square-foot building to a 6,000-square-foot attraction on 5 acres. In November 1998, Wendt bought Buffalo Chip from former Green Bay Packer tight end Max McGee. “I was in law enforcement at the time and I knew that when I retired, I was going to be 41 years old,” he explains. “I knew I wasn’t ready to play golf or fish or fly planes yet so that’s how I got here.”

Wendt was retired for a whole nine days when he came out of retirement to purchase the saloon. He has always had a love for the Western culture and says the multipurpose venue features his favorite things. That, he adds, demands hard work.

“It’s labor intensive,” he says. “We’ve got about 100 employees and a lot of different operations. It’s not just a bar or just an entertainment venue, it’s a

big multitude of all those things. It The restaurant serves a variety of paper rolls, starting the fire. Fire keeps us busy.” appetizers: loaded tater tots, breaded crews arrived quickly and thought Buffalo Chip has entertainment cheese curds and Nacho Mamas, a they extinguished it, but they hadn’t. daily. Every night there’s live music Buffalo Chip favorite. Salads and The fire had spread to the attic and and wherever there’s live music, there’s sandwiches are on the menu, too; the 15 minutes later the entire venue was dancing. Those interested in learning beef brisket sandwich is a bestseller. To engulfed. to two-step and line dance can top off a meal, five desserts are up for “When someone sets your place on take lessons on Sundays, Mondays, grabs ranging from honey cinnamon fire, you get the feeling maybe you’re Tuesdays and Thursdays. Bull riding fry bread to campfire s’mores. not wanted,” Wendt recalls. “My first is on Wednesdays and Fridays for instinct was I’m retired. I don’t “WE SPEND $10,000 A WEEK need this headache and I’m just adrenaline seekers at an additional ON ENTERTAINMENT. WE charge. Attendees can watch for going to close.” free.

But he quickly changed his TRY TO GIVE PEOPLE AN “We spend $10,000 a week on OUTING, NOT JUST A DRINK.” mind. For three days, people entertainment. We try to give rallied around the fenced-in people an outing, not just a drink.”

The Chip has become quite the property to show their support.

Wendt says. entertainment hotspot. But not too “It was so motivating to me that we Word of the saloon has spread long ago it had to build itself from the decided to rebuild.” worldwide. On Wednesdays and ground up – literally.

The Chip kept a small back area Fridays, he has hosted tourists from On Thanksgiving morning in 2015, open for bull riding and eating from a Italy, Germany and China. A chunk news spread that the Buffalo Chip limited menu for 10 months while the of business comes from Cave Creek burned down. It was ruled arson. venue was rebuilt. It’s been three years residents while other attendees are Wendt claims it was started by a since the fire and the Buffalo Chip is from elsewhere in the Valley. The woman who was in the night prior. more popular than ever. clientele ranges from families to soccer She was smoking a cigarette inside and “I do enjoy being around people that teams and young country dancers. refused to put it out. She flicked the are having fun,” Wendt says. “We say The crowd is so diverse, it’s impossible butt, hit another customer and was from around the block or around the to specify one type of audience the asked to leave. On her way out, she world, they come here and we’re glad venue attracts. threatened to burn the place down. that they picked us, and we’re glad we The menu lists Western- and Tex“Once a month in this business, get to take care of them.”

Mex-inspired food and award-winning somebody is upset about something, barbecue. On bull riding nights, so you don’t really take them serious.

The Buffalo Chip customers can indulge on an all-youWe should have taken that one Saloon and Steakhouse can-eat barbecue buffet. seriously,” Wendt says.

6823 E. Cave Creek Road, “We smoke 5 to 10,000 pounds a He further explains the woman Cave Creek, 480.488.9118, week of beef, pork, chicken and ribs in returned the following morning while buffalochipsaloon.com these big commercial, Southern Pride the cleaning crew was there. She hickory smokers and we sell a lot of it,” snuck into the women’s restrooms he says. and put a lit cigarette on the toilet ENTERTAINERMAG.COM

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Bizarro facts that will stretch your noggin

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski » The Entertainer!

JANUARY IS NATIONAL SOUP MONTH Hippopotamus soup was all the rage in 6000 BC

Our most popular soup is – you guessed it – chicken noodle

Condensed soup was invented in 1897 by Dr. John T. Dorrance with the Campbell Soup Co.

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We eat more than 10 billion bowls of soup annually

“No soup for you!” became a catchphrase in 1995, thanks to Seinfeld’s The Soup Nazi.

9 against 4, statistics show that women are fonder of soups than men

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