SanTan Sun News;12-5-15: arts

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Jesse Valenzuela will soon continue writing songs for a new Gin Blossoms album.

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Dec. 5 - Dec. 18, 2015

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Gin Blossoms will perform a free show at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino on Saturday, Dec. 19. Submitted photo.

Submitted photo

Gin Blossoms return home for free show

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Gin Blossoms guitarist Jesse Valenzuela said he hasn’t been writing songs very much lately.

He’s been busy touring with his band, best known for the songs “Hey Jealousy” and “Found Out About You.” Valenzuela has also been taking care of his 16-year-old son who lives with him.

Even though he hasn’t put pen to paper frequently, Valenzuela laughed when asked what’s planned for 2016.

“I have my own record that will come out,” Valenzuela said. “It was sort of a soft release this year with just a digital download. But we’re rereleasing it in January.

“I have to record a Gin Blossoms record. Do a little tour with my

band and come to Phoenix. I have a songwriters’ conference in January in Florida. Then I have another record coming out with Danny Wilde of The Rembrandts.

“Look at me: I haven’t been writing very much so how did this all happen?” Valenzuela said with a chuckle while doing dishes in his Los Angeles home.

An Arizona hometown favorite, Gin Blossoms will return to the Grand Canyon state to play a free show at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino in Maricopa on Saturday, Dec. 19.

“We’ll play the hits; we’ll play a few new things,” he said. “It really depends on the length of the show.”

On July 4, Gin Blossoms played Fort McDowell Casino with Fastball.

Valenzuela said it’s a joy play in his home state, where his parents still live.

Gin Blossoms are enjoying a revival of sorts thanks to satellite radio like the ‘90s channels like “‘90s on 9” and “Lithium.” “Hey Jealousy” sounds as fresh as the day it was released.

“I think it’s because we didn’t subscribe to any trends,” Valenzuela said. “We were frequently lumped in with the ‘alternative rock format. I couldn’t see any similarities between us and anything called ‘alternative.’

We’re more jangly pop rock than alternative rock.”

Gin Blossoms are going to continue that vibe on their new album. They are slated to hit the studio in 2016.

“We’re supposed to have 10 new

songs for a record,” said Valenzuela, an active golfer who loves Red Mountain Country Club in Northeast Mesa. “I’m going to go with double overdrive.

I’m off for the next couple months, so I’m going to kick it hard and get 18 or 20 so we can pare down for the next record. I gotta be honest with you, I actually work a lot everyday writing songs.”

Gin Blossoms perform at 1:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 19, at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino’s UltraStar Amphitheater, 15406 Maricopa Rd., Maricopa. Tickets are free. For more information, call (480) 802-5000 or visit www.caesars. com/harrahs-ak-chin/shows.

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Goldendoodle is Valley’s first three-legged Sandy in ‘Annie Jr.’

BY ALISON STANTON

Pam Reinke’s dog certainly has lived up to her name.

The Chandler resident is the owner of Hope, a 7-year-old goldendoodle, who serves as a pet therapy dog and recipient of the Arizona Friends of Animal Care and Control’s 2015 Hero Dog Award for community service.

Hope’s current accomplishment—as the Valley’s first three-legged pup to play the role of Sandy in “Annie Jr.” at Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre—is giving hope to everyone who sees her on stage.

While this is not Hope’s first time to appear as Sandy, Reinke said it marks her return to the stage after a 2014 accident in which she was hit by a car. She lost a leg as a result of the collision.

After Hope’s injury, Reinke wondered if her beloved dog ever would be able to return to the stage.

The overwhelmingly positive response from the community let Reinke know that they needed Hope to recover as much as she did.

“What really happened to energize us and to keep us going was the way the community lifted us up. They helped to fund Hope’s care, and they brought over trays of lasagna and roast turkey and we received so many cards it was just phenomenal,” Reinke said.

“It made me feel like Hope is not just my dog, she is community property.”

Although Hope is now hiking regularly with Reinke and enjoys swimming on a daily basis, Reinke

said the one thing that was left to accomplish in Hope’s post-accident bucket list was getting back on stage.

“Since the accident happened, it has been a struggle every day to achieve where we were at before. Now, with these performances at Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre, we can say we are doing everything we were doing before the accident,” Reinke said.

“We are really grateful to Angela Kriese, director at Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre, for giving us this opportunity. Hope has been such an inspiration to other people, and she puts a smile on my face every day.”

Kriese said Hope’s three-legged status did not cause her any concerns.

“When I met Pam, I could see the love that she has for Hope. I felt confident that Pam wouldn’t have brought Hope to the audition if she didn’t think she was capable of playing the role with three legs,” Kriese said, adding that she felt naturally drawn to Hope and her name. “‘Annie’ is about the hope for a better tomorrow. I thought it was just perfect that this sweet dog’s name was Hope,” Kriese said.

“She shines onstage and is such a beautiful, kind and loving animal.

When I watch her perform I don’t see a three-legged Sandy, I see a dog that has a special gift; a dog that will give you hope that ‘the sun will come out tomorrow.’”

Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre is located at 4720 N. Scottsdale Rd. in Scottsdale. Hope’s two remaining

Hope, a goldendoodle, pictured with her owner Pam Reinke of Chandler, has recovered from a serious accident that caused her to lose one of her legs. Hope has recently returned to the stage in the role of Sandy in “Annie Jr.” Submitted photo

performances are at 7:30 p.m. on Saturdays Dec. 5 and Dec. 12. For tickets,

call (480) 483-1664 or visit http:// desertstages.org/show/annie-jr-65.

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‘The SnowCat’ tells a child’s story in 10 jazzy tunes

BY KENNETH LAFAVE

He’s a snowbird writing about a “SnowCat,” a trumpeter who traded his trumpet for a flugelhorn, and a composer who likes to improvise.

And he was born on Christmas Day. “What’s fun about that is, I’ve gone my whole life without meeting anyone else born on Christmas until this week, when I met three,” said flugelhorn-playing snowbird Dmitri Matheny.

Matheny will perform “The SnowCat,” an original composition, in his winter home of Chandler. Tickets are $10 to the holiday-oriented family show at 11 a.m.

Saturday, Dec. 12, at the Chandler Center for the Arts. Go to www.chandlercenter. org for more information.

“I moved to Washington state earlier this year, but I’m keeping the place in Chandler. I am now officially a snowbird,” said Matheny, who had moved to Chandler in 2007. Matheny took up residence in the Valley to be near his father.

Matheny, who leads the Dmitri Matheny Group, is a globally regarded jazz musician who has been called “one of the emotionally most expressive improvisers of his generation” by the International Review of Music. The instrument he improvises upon is not one frequently associated with jazz.

“I started out on trumpet and played it for a time, but the flugelhorn has this big, warm sound. After a while, I came to feel that it was my true voice. So at 19, I sold my trumpet and bought a flugelhorn.”

While some jazz trumpeters double

on flugelhorn for more lyrical, balladtype songs, Matheny is alone in having made the warmer, lower-pitched brass instrument his only horn, playing it “even on more upbeat and edgy songs.”

Though he is a premier improviser, Matheny, 50, also likes to compose. “The SnowCat” is an original score, written for his band and for a narrator who tells a story in between numbers. “‘The SnowCat’ is based a series of pictures in Asian culture known as ‘The Little Oxherd.’ The pictures tell a story about a little boy looking for a lost ox.

It’s a very ancient parable, kind of like Aesop’s Fables in our culture, used by parents to teach children about things like gratitude and sharing. Zen Buddhists use it, with the search for the ox as a search for enlightenment. I always liked the story and thought someday I might do something with it,” Matheny said.

For a while, Matheny’s holiday shows focused on the usual yuletide fare: “Frosty the Snowman,” Rudolph’s red nose, etc. But he felt that even these and other secular Christmas tales were not broad enough to be inclusive of people from all cultures and backgrounds.

“I finally turned to the oxherd pictures, updating them and making the ox a cat and the little boy a little girl. It’s the same progression of themes, but now it’s an American story.”

As the little girl searches for her lost white cat in the snow, she learns a series of 10 lessons in compassionate living. Following each lesson learned, Matheny and his band play one of

Dmitri Matheny’s flugelhorn is his “true voice.” Submitted photo Matheny’s original compositions. Each is in a different style, providing maximum diversity.

“There’s a swing-jazz tune, a funk tune, a hip-hop chant—every song is different.

And there’s a lot of improvisation going on. I’ve got a killer band, and sometimes

all I’ve done is give them a chord progression and a groove and let them go.”

Admission to “The SnowCat” comes with a coloring book that children are invited to color while listening to the story and the songs.

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Greasepaint Youtheatre presents ‘Oliver!’

Greasepaint Youtheatre is performing “Oliver!,” Friday, Dec. 11, through Sunday, Dec. 20, at the Stagebrush Theatre, 7020 E. Second St., Scottsdale. Tickets are $15 to $17.

Lionel Bart’s best-known masterpiece, “Oliver!,” debuted in London’s West End in 1960, bringing to life through song the sweet and sordid characters of Charles Dickens’ classic novel.

Dickens was a widely known and celebrated author in his lifetime. Because of his indefatigable writing habit, his many stories have lived long entertaining lives of their own, most notably “Oliver Twist.” His second novel, “Oliver Twist” was originally published in monthly installments in the late 1830s.

The original Broadway production won three of its nine Tony nominations in 1963, including for best original score. The 1968 film version of the musical won six Oscars, including best picture.

Jack Yampolsky as Oliver at Stagebrush Theatre in Scottsdale. Submitted photo

Show times are: • 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11 • 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12 • 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13 • 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18 • 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19 • 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20 Info: (480) 949-7529

The Real Thing Band performs in Sonoran Sunset Series concert Melisza and Jessica Gransbergen and The Real Thing Band are the featured performers at the next Sonoran Sunset Series free outdoor concert, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 17, at Chandler’s Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd. The band will sing music from the ‘60s

and ‘70s, current dance hits, rock, country, soul, funk, Motown, jazz, blues, easy listening, pop and Top 40. Concertgoers are encouraged to bring blankets, folding chairs and food while enjoying the music.

If the weather is bad, the performance will be held indoors at the park’s Environmental Education Center.

Chris Burton Jacome performs at the Ed Robson Library. Submitted photo

Flamenco guitarist performing at library Phoenix-based Flamenco guitarist Chris Burton Jacome is performing 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 8, and the flute and guitar Sosco Duo is performing 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 17, at the Ed Robson Branch Library, Lecky Center, 9330 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes. Seating is limited.

Free tickets can be picked up on the day of the program at the library’s front desk.

Parking is available in the church lot next to the library. Refreshments provided.

Info: pattydennehy@mcldaz.org or mcldaz.org.

Classic blockbusters continue at Harkins Theatres through end of year Retro is hip, and the Harkins Theatres are celebrating all things “old” by presenting the Tuesday Night Classics. For $5, guests can relive their favorite films on the big screen at theaters throughout the Valley, including Chandler Crossroads and Chandler Fashion Center. Movies start at 7 p.m.

The remainder of the year the following movies will be shown: • “Elf,” Dec. 8 • “A Christmas Story,” Dec. 15 • “The Polar Express,” Dec. 22.

Info: www.HarkinsTheatres.com/TNC. Harkins is also offering Loyalty Cups and Loyalty T-shirts for sale for $5.25 and $25 and will reward moviegoers with $1.50 soft drink refills every time they bring their Loyalty Cup to the movies, and one free medium popcorn with ticket purchase every time they wear their Loyalty T-shirt to the movies through the end of 2016. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of T-shirt will be donated to Phoenix Children’s Hospital. Info: www.

HarkinsTheatres.com/store.

Theatre Artists Studio presents ‘Cinderella’ A fresh take on the fairytale favorite, “Cinderella” is a delightful new musical offering a rollicking good time for the whole family. Both Cinderella and Prince Bobby only want to dance—specifically tap dance—in a show. While his parents want him to find a wife, Bobby uses the ball as an audition to find a dancing partner.

The performance will be held at 7:30 p.m. Fridays, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Saturdays and at 2 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 13 at Theatre Artists Studio, 4848 E. Cactus Rd., Suite 406, in Scottsdale.

Tickets are $10 for students 25 and younger, $15 for groups of 10 or more,

seniors 65 and older and members of the military. General admission is $20.

Info: (602) 765-0120 or www. thestudiophx.org.

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The Mommy and Me class will be held Dec. 5.

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All of the “Off the Wall” donated artwork is offered for sale in a silent auction format.

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Art Intersection’s silent auction is ‘Off the Wall’ Art Intersection is presenting “Off the Wall,” an exhibition where all of the donated artwork is offered for sale in a silent auction format. Final bidding is 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, at 207 N. Gilbert Rd., Suite 201, Gilbert.

Bidding will be on works from local and national artists, gifts from local vendors and other special opportunities and services. Winning bidders will take their purchased artwork off the wall.

Proceeds from Off the Wall will be used to support community programs, such as the Emerge student photography

exhibition and the Art Intersection’s Artist-In-Residence program, as well as the curated exhibitions in the North and South galleries, which are always free and open to the public.

There will be hors d’oeuvres, refreshments, door prizes and raffles at the final bidding event.

Art Intersection has presented six public exhibitions showing work from students, emerging and nationally and internationally known artists.

Info: info@artintersection.com and (480) 361-1118.

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The Spolvero beginning technique class will be held on Dec. 12. Submitted photo

As You Wish Pottery schedules holiday events As You Wish Pottery offers plans included. a slew of activities for youth to A Daddy, Daughter Date adults throughout December.

Night is Friday, Dec. 11.

From 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Reservations are strongly Saturday, Dec. 5, Mommy suggested for the free and Me Class is offered for studio time spent painting toddlers, preschoolers and a together. parent. It is a $20 all-inclusive From 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. class. The class includes two Saturday, Dec. 12, Spolvero/ The Homeschool Social beginning technique class ornaments with additional will be held Dec. 10. ornaments being available will be held for ages 12 to Submitted photo to purchase separately. adults. It is $10 plus pottery Fingerprints are used to create of choice. This class is chock the designs. As You Wish instructors will full of techniques. Not only does it walk attendees through one step at a feature glitter paint and Spolvero stencils, time. attendees will use contact paper, masking From 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Thursday, tape and sponge on a stick to create the Dec. 10, Homeschool Social will be held holiday platter. for homeschooled children. It is $12 To register for the class, visit www. all-inclusive program. Create a bold, asyouwishpottery.com/classes. The beautiful 3-D ornament almost entirely Chandler studio is located at 2970 with pencil dots. Easy-to-follow lesson Germann Rd., Suite 4.

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Koz returns to play Christmas show in Mesa

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Raised Jewish, veteran sax man Dave Koz is an unlikely Christmas music star.

“It just sort of happened,” Koz said with a laugh from his hotel room in Sarasota, Florida.

“I grew up Jewish and celebrating Hanukkah and somewhere along the way I made a holiday record and it took off. We started to do some touring behind that. Eighteen years later ... It’s a head scratcher to say the least. I’m honored to do it. The main thing is I love playing holiday music.”

Koz called it the best time of the year to be on the road. That’s especially true this year with the addition of special guests Bill Medley and alto sax player Candy Dulfer.

“Bill is new for us this year,” said Koz, who brings his show to the Mesa Arts Center on Wednesday, Dec. 16.

“For me, he’s a legend. [His talent] is very rare. If you can think about the people who are like him—Rock and Roll Hall of Famers who has had hits in every decade since the ‘60s; he delivered the songs that are so famous, ‘You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’.’

“It’s really special to have as a guest a guy who has had that much success in the music world and touched so many people. Plus, he’s a lovely guy, a great guy. Then, when he opens his

mouth, you get that rich baritone and it’s all over.”

He called Dulfer the “single funkiest female on the planet.”

“That’s not an official scientific statement, but I think it’s a done deal,” he said, again with a laugh. “She’s an incredible performer from Holland.

Candy’s very much featured in this show.”

The show is rounded out by South African-born singer-songwriter Jonathan Butler.

“Jonathan has been a collaborator of mine on this tour for many years, he said. “He has a whole incredible musical sensibility. He’s from South Africa. He sings. He plays. He’s a very spiritual person. He brings a very heartfelt emotionality to the show.”

Speaking of shows, he’s most excited about playing the Mesa Arts Center.

“It’s one of our favorite places to come on this tour,” Koz said. It’s gorgeous, and music sounds great there. It’s always a fun crowd. By the time we get to Mesa, we’re in the home stretch of the tour, so we’re in a good mood.”

Dave Koz performs at 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 16, at the Mesa Arts Center, One E. Main St., Mesa. Tickets are $52 to $182. For more information, visit www.mesaartscenter.com.

December 2015

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12 Dmitri Matheny’s THE SNOWCAT 11am 18 The Texas Tenors 7:30pm 22-31 Zoppé-An Italian Family Circus Times Vary

January 2016 1-3 Zoppé-An Italian Family Circus Times Vary 7:30pm 15 Black Violin 17 TIMBER! A Production of Cirque Alfonse!

7pm 23 Deana Martin Honoring Dean Martin & Frank Sinatra 7:30pm 29 Moscow Festival Ballet presents Don Quixote 7:30pm 30 Fiesta Mexico-Americana with Los Lobos 7:30pm

February 2016

Just Announced!

Sun. Feb. 21 · 7pm

6 The Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra 7:30pm 12 Tap Factory 7:30pm 14 The Summit: The Manhattan Transfer meets Take 6 7pm 20 Frankie Avalon 7:30pm 21 Lee Ann Womack 7pm 27 Steppin’ Out LIVE with Ben Vereen & Trio 7:30pm

March 2016 4 The Second City Fully Loaded 7:30pm 5 Vicki Lawrence & Mama: A Two Woman Show 7:30pm 8-13 Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding Times Vary 18 Rita Rudner 7:30pm 25 Flamenco Kings starring Los Vivancos 7:30pm

April 2016 1 The von Trapps /ChandlerCenterfortheArts

7:30pm @ChandlerArts

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www.ChandlerCenter.org

Saxophonist Dave Koz will perform with a slew of musicians/singers, including Bill Medley, at the Mesa Arts Center on Wednesday, Dec. 16. Submitted photo

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Ahwatukee Foothills Nutcracker Ballet features local dancers Dancers from around the Valley, ages 3 to 18, have been rehearsing since August for the upcoming performances of “Nutcracker” in December. Dancers in the Ahwatukee Foothills Ballet cast live in Casa Grande, Phoenix, Maricopa, Scottsdale, Peoria, Gilbert, Tempe, Chandler, Mesa, Paradise Valley and Glendale.

The performances will be held at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18, and 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 19. The performance will be held at Desert Vista Fine Arts Theater, 16440 S. 32nd St., Phoenix.

Tickets are on sale at Dance Studio 111, located at 4910 E. Chandler Blvd., Suite

111, Phoenix, or by phone at (602) 7066040, or by email at afnutcracker@gmail. com.

Attendees are invited to visit the stage to meet Santa Claus and the cast members. The dancers will sign autographs following the performance at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19. Audience members can also sit and take photographs on Clara’s Throne in the Land of Sweets, and take photographs with the Nutcracker, Mouse King, Sugar Plum Fairy and Clara and many other cast members.

To purchase tickets, call (480) 7066040, or visit http://afnutcracker.com.

A premier adult choral performing group, Arizona Masterworks Chorale, was started in 1979.

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Fall concert series ends with ‘Sounds of the Christmas Season’ The KOG 2015 fall concert series is ending the year with “Sounds of the Christmas Season” by the Arizona Masterworks Chorale, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 18, at King of Glory Lutheran Church, 2085 E. Southern Ave., Tempe.

Tickets, sold at the door, are $15.

A premier adult choral performing

group, Arizona Masterworks Chorale has been in existence since 1979. Its mission is to enrich the cultural quality of life in Arizona by performing a wide range of choral music, from classical to contemporary.

Info: (480) 838-0477, cyndeec@kogaz. org or www.arizonamasterworks.com.

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Enjoy Christmas classics and family favorites with Phoenix Boys Choir Get ready to enjoy a new and beloved family tradition as the Phoenix Boys Choir invites you to explore the Christmas classics. Nothing brings the spirit of the season as powerfully alive as the magic of music. Whether frolicking in the snow or recounting the miracles of Christmas, these are songs that will lift your spirit.

Audiences will get a front-row seat to all the charm and majesty of the season with “Winter Wonderland,” a joyful medley of music that includes traditional carols such as “I Saw Three Ships A Sailing,” “The Little Drummer Boy,” “Winter Wonderland,” and “Silent Night.”

Performances are: • 6:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 14, at American Lutheran Church, 17200 N. Del Webb Blvd., Sun City.

• 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18, at Mesa Performing Arts Center - Mesa Community College, 1833 W. Southern Ave., Mesa.

Tickets are $23 in advance and $28 at the door; $18 for seniors and children under 12. Info: www.boyschoir.org.

Children will love the new Boys Choir tune based on Santa’s favorite helper, “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and the whole family will listen in awe as the Boys Choir performs excerpts from Benjamin Britten’s “Ceremony of Carols,” culminating with a glorious performance of the “Hallelujah! Chorus” from Handel’s “Messiah.”

The Phoenix Boys Choir is unmatched among arts organizations for its dedication to presenting the best

For a celebration as delightful as a white Christmas, and equally unforgettable, get ready to visit a “Winter Wonderland” this December. Submitted photo

choral performances in Arizona. For a celebration as delightful as a white Christmas, and equally unforgettable, get ready to visit a “Winter Wonderland” this December.

Founded in 1947, the Phoenix Boys Choir offers programs featuring training in voice, music theory and performance for boys ages 7 to 14. The Phoenix Boys Choir, through educating boys in the art of singing and performing the finest music in the boy choir tradition, develops character, discipline, leadership, global awareness and a strong commitment to excellence.

December 21st - 24th December 28th - 31st Option 1: Guitar, Piano, Drums, Theory Option 2: Voice, Improv, Acting

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Sonoran Desert Chorale’s winter Two compelling stories told concert features songs of the season by East Valley Children’s Theatre Cold winds may not often blow into the Valley of the Sun, but we still need the warmth of music like Cecilia McDowall’s “A Winter’s Night.” Through creative re-harmonization, rhythmic variation and imaginative linking passages, McDowall uses beautiful carols to conjure a joyful atmosphere, delighting with familiar and surprising material in equal measure. This lovely celebration of carols opens the Sonoran Desert Chorale’s winter concert.

Performances of “Glad Tidings! Music for a Winter’s Night” will take place 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, at First United Methodist Church, 15 E. First Ave., Mesa.

Tickets are $18 for adults and $15 for seniors, students and groups of 10 or more.

The concert includes songs of the season, old and new, with works by Mendelssohn, Paul Mealor and Mack Wilberg, plus arrangements by Jackson Berkey, Randol Alan Bass and Michael McGlynn. Mendelssohn’s multilayered “There Shall a Star Come Out of Jacob” begins with gentle passages proclaiming the Christmas prophecy, moves through an animated section, and concludes with “How Brightly Shines the Morning Star.”

Cecilia McDowall. Submitted photo

The Chorale is accompanied by brass and organ on several pieces, adding to the festive atmosphere, and the 60 voices of the Chorale will join with the audience during a sing-along portion of the concert. The Chorale was founded in 1994 and has performed in five European concert tours.

Info: www.SonoranDesertChorale.org or by calling (480) 305-4538.

The East Valley Children’s Theatre is presenting “Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus” 7 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays, 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturdays and 2 p.m. on Sundays, through Dec. 13, at the Mesa Arts Center, One E. Main St., Mesa. All cast members are between the ages of 8 and 18.

Two compelling stories come together in this heartwarming play, inspired by the famous editorial by Francis P. Church.

On Christmas Eve 1897 in New York City, 8-year-old Virginia is left pondering whether or not Santa really exists after a series of unhappy events. Meanwhile, a young newspaper editor also struggles against tough holiday times as he is faced with losing his job if he can’t find his

writer’s voice by morning. Even though they don’t know each other, the spirit of Christmas is about to bring these people together, creating an unforgettable and cherished part of classic Christmas folklore.

This is the world premiere of this stage production, created especially for East Valley Children’s Theatre by artistic director Karen Rolston. Five original songs were created for the production by local composer Kathie McMahon, as well as a sprinkling of favorite holiday tunes thrown in.

Tickets are $15 for adults and $11 for children 17 and younger. Group rates are available. Info: (480) 644-6500 or www. evct.org.

Sun Lakes Chorale presents ‘We Need a Little Christmas’ The Sun Lakes Chorale is presenting “We Need a Little Christmas,” 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 10, at the Sun Lakes United Methodist Church, 9248 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased in advance

ON STAGE

from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 24, Tuesday, Dec. 1 and Tuesday, Dec. 8 at Sun Lakes ACE Hardware, 9666 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes. Tickets will also be sold at the door, if available. Info: (480) 883-6997.

ON STAGE VENUE INDEX

Mannheim Steamroller, Sunday, Dec. 6, MAC. Grammy Award winner Chip Davis has created a show that features the beloved Christmas music of Mannheim Steamroller, along with dazzling multimedia effects performed in an intimate setting.

The Milk Carton Kids with Julian Lage, Monday, Dec. 7, MAC. Grammynominated harmony duo The Milk Carton Kids are a refreshing alternative to the foot stomping grandeur of the folk revival.

Chris Burton Jacome, Tuesday, Dec. 8, ERL. Phoenix-based Flamenco guitarist Chris Burton Jacome is widely known for his phenomenal style and is one of the best flamenco guitarists in the United States.

Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox, Tuesday, Dec. 8, MAC. Their work has been viewed on the YouTube channel well over 100 million times.

Dwight Yoakam, Thursday, Dec. 10, HAC. The country legend will perform at the Ak-Chin Circle Field.

Mesa Arts Festival, Saturday, Dec. 12, through Sunday, Dec. 13, MAC. The Mesa Arts Festival is the premier place to find unique gifts for the holidays.

Dave Koz & Friends, Wednesday, Dec. 16, MAC. Saxophonist extraordinaire Dave Koz returns with his friends Candy Dulfer, Jonathan Butler and Bill Medley.

Holiday Music with Sosco Duo: Flute and Guitar, Thursday, Dec. 17, ERL. Celebrate the season with holiday standards as performed by Sosco Duo. “Winter Wonderland,” Friday, Dec. 18, MAC. The Phoenix Boys Choir presents a joyful medley of music that includes traditional carols such as “Winter Wonderland” and “Silent Night.”

Gin Blossoms, Saturday, Dec. 19, HAC. The Gin Blossoms will play such songs as “Hey Jealousy,” “Follow You Down,” “Found Out About You” and many more.

CCA—Chandler Center for the Arts 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler Tickets: (480) 782-2680, www.chandlercenter.org

Riverdance, Tuesday, Jan. 12 through Sunday, Jan. 17, MAC. The international Irish dance phenomenon is on its 20th anniversary world tour with an innovative and exciting blend of dance, music and song.

ERL—Ed Robson Library 9330 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes Tickets: (602) 652-3000, www.mcldaz.org

Lee Ann Womack, Sunday, Feb. 21, CCA. Country Album of the Year nominee Lee Ann Womack sings hits from her most acclaimed albums.

HAC—Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino 16000 N. Maricopa Rd, Maricopa Tickets: (480) 802-5000 or www.harrahsaskchin.com

MAC—Mesa Arts Center One E. Main St., Mesa Alton Brown Live: Eat Your Science, Tickets: (480) 644-6500, Thursday, May 12, MAC. Fans can www.mesaartscenter.com Electronics, Hobbies, and more! expect more comedy, talk show antics, multimedia presentations and music.

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