Zócalo Tucson’s Urban Scene Magazine / september 2012 / TheZMag.com
index September 2012 05. Urban News 06. Arts 14. Performing Arts Season 24. Business 30. Events 34. Fashion 37. Tunes 44. Look Back 45. Puzzles 46. Escape 47. Life in Tucson
Zócalo is an independently published community magazine, showcasing Tucson’s urban arts and culture. PUBLISHER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR David Olsen GUEST COPY EDITOR Dave Schaeffer CONTRIBUTORS Sydney Ballesteros, Marisa Bernal, Yekatherina Bruner, Emily Gindlesparger, Phoenix Michael, misterpaulfisher, Rebecca Naylor-Sánchez, Randy Peterson, Monica Surfaro Spigelman, Herb Stratford, Teya Vitu. LISTINGS Marisa Bernal PRODUCTION ARTISTS Troy Martin, David Olsen
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urban news Z
new moves on CONGRESS STREET by Teya Vitu The people behind the popular HUB Restaurant & Ice Creamery, Playground Lounge, 47 Scott and Scott & Co., and the Rialto Exhibition Center are ready to make their next moves as soon as streetcar construction wraps up on Congress Street. All of it revolves around the empire of Scott Stiteler, owner of the Congress Street properties on both sides of the street between Fifth Avenue and the Arizona Avenue alley and co-owner of the Rialto Exhibition Center building across from Hotel Congress. A new life is coming for the Rialto Exhibition Center, hints Stiteler, who co-owns the building with Don Martin. “We couldn’t have scripted that better to have four exhibitions in succession,” Stiteler said. But time has come for perhaps something else in the historic building attached to the Rialto Theatre. Stiteler has eight spaces ranging from 800 to 1,500 square feet on the three blocks. So far, eateries of one sort or another fill much of his holdings in the One North Fifth Apartments commercial space at 245 E. Congress and across the street from 256 E. Congress to 278 E. Congress. “I’ve been very mindful to keep space open for retail,” Stiteler said. “That’s highly coveted,” he said about the vacant space between
HUB and Playground. All of his available space garners interest but he has never rushed to lease to just any business. “I get lots of offers. I’m waiting for that eureka moment when I say ‘perfect.’” Kade Mislinski is at it again, too, in his share of Stiteler’s property, this time with what he’s calling Lulu’s Shake Shoppe, 270 E. Congress St. Mislinski is the out-of-the-box visionary behind Playground Lounge, where he recreated the pleasures of the childhood playground, and HUB Restaurant & Ice Creamery, where ice cream gets equal billing with beef and beer. Lulu’s follows the same scratch-your-head wackiness. The name may be shake shoppe but Mislinski sees it as a cross between a little league baseball snack bar (expect hot dogs) and a French fry/falafel stand in Amsterdam, where fries come with mayonnaise. Lulu’s will have four standard shake flavors and two special flavors every day. Lulu’s will be located behind HUB, serving out of the same window as Chocolate Fox. Chocolate Fox will continuing delivering chocolate creations during the day, and Lulu’s will do its thing from 5 p.m. to 3 a.m. seven days a week. “I think we need a pick-up window. We need a snack bar Downtown.”
story continues on page 26
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Z arts
photos: Jade Beall
Dreams of Home An ‘All-Souls’-inspired Puppets Amongus show goes to Kazakhstan by Emily Gindlesparger Matt Cotten, artistic director of the puppeteering troupe Puppets Amongus, has for a long time been deeply involved with the All Souls Procession. “For over a decade, I was part of a team of teachers (Tucson Puppet Works) that held free puppet and mask making workshops for individuals and families to mourn the loss of loved ones, and to honor their lives through celebration. It has been profoundly healing for many people,” he says. Three years ago he created a puppet show for the Procession, called “El Sueno de Frida” (“Frida’s Dream”), that fit right into the Tucson tradition. “I was inspired by a photo I found of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera standing next to giant papier-mache puppets they had made for a festival, brushes in hand. It felt very familiar to me.” At the end of September, the Puppets Amongus tribe, consisting of Cotten and his wife Sarah, with musician Jimmy Carr, will travel to Tucson’s sister city of Almaty, Kazakhstan to introduce this familiar and vital tradition to audiences at the World Puppet Carnival. “El Sueno de Frida” is a fitting representative of us as the story travels through a “surrealist patchwork” of dream, fear and memory. “I decided to bring the Frida show to the international stage to show how our community has been developing a rich tradition of honoring our past through
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the integration of multiple traditions, as well as through artistic invention,” Cotten adds. Also on the trip will be life-size sheep and goose puppets, and a giant spectacle puppet with a puppet stage inside, for a street theater performance of “Tinker’s Wedding,” based on an Irish folktale. The Tucson troupe will join more than 60 troupes from across the globe, performing for eight days from September 23-30th. Come see their farewell show of “El Sueno de Frida” at the Movement Shala. When they get back, the troupe will be opening a new theater and children’s playspace with a full season of performances on deck for the Puppets Amongus Playhouse. The new space is located on 657 W. St. Mary’s downtown, across from Davis Elementary, and will start shows November 10th with “Hatter’s Hollow.” Check out the November issue of Zócalo for more details on the opening. “El Sueño de Frida” by Puppets Amongus, Saturday, September 8th 7:30pm, $10, The Movement Shala, 435 E. 9th St. PuppetsAmongus.com, 444-5538 n
Z arts photo: Panayiotis Lamprou
“L” screens Saturday, September 29th, at The Screening Room.
AZ Underground Film Fest Marks Milestone by Herb Stratford The Arizona Underground Film Festival will start its fifth year with a roar. Growing by leaps and bounds, this home-grown fest is chock full of diverse and interesting films that you won’t see elsewhere; actually, one of the reasons is that many of them are Arizona premieres. In fact, many of the films from last year’s festival are now landing national distribution deals, and we have bragging rights since we saw them here first. This year, according to festival director and founder David Pike, there will be even more events and activities outside of the screenings. A special block party event will kick off the festival two weeks prior to film screenings and will feature as the official announcement of this year’s lineup. Set to take place at Lovesmack Studios at 19 East Toole Avenue on September 8, it will occur during Second Saturdays Downtown. The event will feature food, adult libations, dancing, art, a photo booth and projected “No Wave” art films on the walls. What makes this film festival different from many of the others that line the calendar is a unique blend of films that are truly outside of the norm. Not studio films, not ‘indie’ films per se, but high-quality films that deserve an audience but may not yet have one. Often, Pike and his team will program specific elements or actively search out specific genres to highlight, but the quality of submissions is always excellent and the range of international submissions astonishing.
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Some highlights of this year’s festival include “I Want My Name Back”, a documentary about legendary rap pioneers the Sugar Hill Gang and their quest to stop an imposter from profiting from their legacy, and “Seven Years Underground” about the legendary 1960’s New York coffee house Café Au GoGo, which hosted acts such as Jefferson Airplane, The Grateful Dead, BB King and others on their tiny stage. Another film of note includes “L,” an experimental film from Greek director Babis Makridis, about a man who lives in his car. Makridis, who caused a stir with his previous film “Dogtooth,” is an international film festival favorite due to his unique vision and storytelling. “Bones Brigade,” which chronicles the early days of competitive skateboard culture and its innovators, such as Tony Hawk, is on tap, as is “The Legend of Kaspar Hauser,” starring Vincent Gallo, and a special screening of the near cult-classic Charlie Sheen futuristic horror film “The Wraith”, which was filmed in Tucson in 1986 and will have its director in person. Arizona Underground Film Festival, September 21-29. Films will be screened at the Screening Room, 127 E. Congress Street with select films being shown at Tower Cinemas at Crossroads Festival, 4811 E. Grant Road. See page 9 or visit AzUndergroundFilmFest.com for film schedules and ticket information. n
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Z arts Photo by Mark Matlock
Photo by Ruben Moreno
Photo by Robin Westenhiser
Robin Westenhiser, Casa Azul Ruben Moreno, The Four Emotions: Love Hate Joy Sadness. Matlock the Artist, David.
Artists for Autism: a Collective with a Cause by Emily Gindlesparger Local artist Chris Leon’s paintings are bright graphic portraits, some in a pinwheel of colors, others in high-contrast monochrome. They’re focused, with bold edges, in the highly relatable style of graphic novels. Leon also gives art lessons to kids aged 5-15, and when he began working with a threeyear-old autistic child, something clicked. “I was blown away at how amazing these kids are and how they function,” Leon said. “The thing that really impressed me about working with this autistic kid was how close artists are to autistic people. When I get focused on something I zone in, I want to be left alone; I’m looking at this kid and he’s concentrating on spelling ‘xenophobe’ and he’s only three years old. It’s very, very cool.” Leon wanted to do something, and when he related his experience to fellow artist Zombilly Ray (who himself has an autistic child) the pair decided to put on a benefit for autism. “It started off as a little brainchild and it’s kind of blown up,” Leon says of the event that now involves dozens of artists, musicians and vendors. Artists for Autism, which will take place on September 28th at the Surly Wench Pub, will showcase new work from twenty artists in one night of live bands, DJs, and a silent auction filled with artwork and donations from Razor’s Edge and Lindy’s on 4th. All proceeds go to Autism Speaks, a nationwide organization dedicated to research, awareness and advocacy for autism. Just a few days after putting up a Facebook page, Leon was flooded with artists asking to contribute. “We have a ton of artists who either have a child with autism or know someone very close to them who does: Janeen Bode, Victoria Belle, Stephanie Lewis; I was really amazed at how close this show is to home for a lot of people.” Zombilly Ray, like so many of the other artists involved, is creating a new body of work for the show focusing on his son and six other children he knows with autism. “My son has a fixation with cars; he can’t survive without toy cars near him all the time,” Ray says. “I’m going to do colorful portraits, sketching them out, and they’re going to be in with what their world is.” His son will be surrounded by cars. On Friday night, September 28th, these artists hope to surround their audience with art and music, and bring about more awareness for children with autism.
Artists for Autism, gallery and silent auction Presented by Chris Leon, Zombilly Ray and Stephanie Johnston Friday, September 28th at Surly Wench Pub, 424 N. 4th Ave. 8pm-1am, $7 Featuring artists Robin Westenhiser, Janeen Bode, Victoria Belle, Mark Matlock, Ruben Moreno, Jessica Gonzales, Stephanie Lewis, and many more. Music and beats by Broken Arrow, Nate Way, Full Story At Midnight, and DJ Kindaphresh. All proceeds go to Autism Speaks. For more information, find Artists for Autism on Facebook. n
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arts Z Flamenco del Pueblo Viejo photo: Lorraine DarConte
Flamenco Lights Up the Old Pueblo by Rebecca Naylor-Sánchez
Here in Tucson, when one thinks of Spanish culture it’s easy to think of it as something half a world away. But the truth is that there is an authentic Spanish community right here in the Old Pueblo, and there is never a time when this becomes more apparent than during the annual Tucson Flamenco Festival taking place downtown at Casa Vicente. This four-day event happening September 27th through the 30th will feature many world class performers, a Flamenco fashion show, tapas for sale, workshops, a wine tasting, a Spanish boutique, and an outdoor bar. Already a staple of Spanish fare for the past seven years, Casa Vicente, along with the Spanish Club of Tucson and the Flamenco del Pueblo Viejo dance studio, are coming together to host this one of a kind event. When asked why he felt the need to start such a festival four years ago, Vicente Sanchez, owner of Casa Vicente, says, “It was surprising that a city with our history along with its growing interest in Spanish food, wine, and culture didn’t already have its own Flamenco Festival. That’s why we took the initiative to plan our first event by inviting prominent guest artists from around the world and combining them with other elements of the Spanish feria experience for a truly electrifying event.” When asked what exactly makes this a must-see festival for the people of Tucson, Marita Gomez, co-owner of Casa Vicente, explains that “most shows of this caliber that come to the U.S. are staged in large theaters. While these are also worthwhile, there is nothing quite like the intimacy of an outdoor event with an up close and personal feel. Not many cities offer a festival in a venue as traditional as ours.” Apart from the venue, one of the performers in the event, Mele Martinez, adds that
“most Tucsonans have never seen real flamenco; it is somewhat a mystery, which is enticing and exciting. It is completely different than what most of us are used to when it comes to music and dance.” It is not so different, however, that those unaccustomed to it cannot enjoy it. Instead, she says that, “when you see it, you can instantly connect to it.” That is one of the aspects that Martinez, who has been dancing since the age of three, loves. As a performer, she enjoys “the interplay between music and movement - the impromptu communication that happens between all the artists on stage.” This infectious energy between performers then radiates into the crowd and results in the sort of chemistry that would be reminiscent of a late-night fiesta in Spain, combined with the intimacy of a family reunion. Perhaps what makes the Flamenco Festival of Tucson so memorable are these personal connections that occur simultaneously for artists and spectators alike. In the end, this festival is about more than just performers on a stage, the same way Flamenco is more than castanets and frilly dresses. It is the embodiment of Spanish culture and revolves around something Gomez would describe as “a way of life.” She says Flamenco “is something so Spanish, yet so universal and alive. It comes from the heart and soul filled with passion and love, and it brings all who are watching crashing into the present. One has to see it live to really know how it can move you.” More information on the Tucson Flamenco Festival can be found online at TucsonFlamencoFestival.com n
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Z arts The Nutcracker
Performing Arts Season Highlights by Herb Stratford
Mary Beth Cabana, Ballet Tucson’s Founding Artistic Director, has a pretty exciting and unique show on her 2012—2013 schedule, something both groundbreaking and fun. Entitled Passionately, Piazzolla! the work, a collaborative effort with Chamber Music PLUS and the Tucson Guitar Society, celebrates the genius that is the music of Astor Piazzolla and the beauty of Tango dancing. Part of the inaugural Tucson Song Festival, this event blends music, dance and song in a way that you have never seen before. The haunting music of Piazzolla, long considered the godfather of Tango, will be familiar to many, but the show Ballet Tucson has in store should be spectacular, and is set to take place at the Temple of Music and Art on February 15-17. Other shows on the schedule this season include their Season Opener November 2-4, The Nutcracker from December 21-23, and the Annual Dance and Dessert fundraiser on April 5-7. Performances this season will take place at the Stevie Eller Dance Theatre at the Temple of Music and Art and at Centennial Hall, depending upon the show. For more information visit BalletTucson.org.
Arizona Opera Arizona Opera continues to present a dazzling array of works as they launch their 2012—2013 season. Featuring several operas that have not been staged in years and exciting guest artists, the season has several must-see events. For example, rising star soprano Lisette Oropesa highlights the staging of Lucia di Lammermoor. Oropesa, a world-class artist and frequent Metropolitan Opera performer, makes a return to Tucson on October 21 and 22. According to Arizona Opera General Director Scott Altman, opera is perhaps the “highest art form” in that in encompasses many other art forms, including music, dance and theatre. Several shows this season will highlight that unique blending of arts including Romeo et Juliette on November 16-18 and Tocsa on February 2 and 3. Il Trovatore follows on March 9 and 10, and a season ending performance on April 13 and 14 of Marriage of Figaro, arguably one of the finest operas ever written. All performances will take place at the Tucson Music Hall. Visit AZOpera.org for specific dates and ticket information.
Photo: Ed Flores
Ballet Tucson
Il Trovatore
Arizona Theatre Company
Photo: Ed Flores
ATC will offer three plays this season that are making their Arizona premieres on stage at the Temple of Music and Art, along with some old favorites. The season begins with the suburban family crisis Next to Normal, from September 15-October 6, followed by Lombardi, which looks at the life of the legendary football coach from October 20-Noember 10. Next up is a family-friendly, new look at a classic tale, Jane Austen’s Emma, from December 1-22. Freud’s Last Session will start the year off from January 19-February 9, followed by the Neil Simon favorite The Sunshine Boys, from March1-23. The Tony Award winning play Clybourn Park, a real estate comedy/drama will conclude the season on April 6-27. David Ira Goldstein, ATC’s Artistic Director admits he is “feeling electric” about the company’s upcoming season, due to its mixture of performances that are in “wildly different genres, but artistically accessible to all.” Visit ArizonaTheatre.org for the full schedule and ticket information.
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Tocsa
Lucia di Lammermoor
Ballet Tucson
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Z arts
Performing Arts Season Highlights by Herb Stratford
Broadway in Tucson Broadway In Tucson’s eighth season in Tucson features quite a mixture of shows, both familiar hits and productions new to Tucson. On September 21-22, the Broadway hit Stomp arrives, featuring a rousing mixture of non-conventional music and acrobatics that has made it a nationwide favorite. Returning to Tucson this year is Wicked, the tale of the witches of Oz before Dorothy arrived. This time the show will be on stage at the Tucson Music Hall instead of Centennial Hall. Audience favorite Blue Man Group will also be in town April 23-28 with their performance art/music stage mania. A classic revival of the musical Anything Goes takes place November 20-25 and the recent Tony award winning musical Memphis debuts in Tucson Feb. 26-March 3. Also, The Million Dollar Quartet will perform from May 7-12 for the first time. Perhaps the show nearest and dearest to BIT General Manager Lendre Kearns is a joint production with UAPresents of an evening with Carol Burnett on January 26. A performance two years in the making, this special one-night event brings one of America’s most talented female comedians to Tucson for a must-see evening. BroadwayInTucson.com.
Memphis
photo: Joan Marcus
photo: Paul Kolnik
Carol Burnett
Stomp
Anything Goes
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photo: Oleg Micheyev
photo: Joan Marcus
The Million Dollar Quartet
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Copyright 2012 Tim Fuller
Rogue Theatre
Motherhood Out Loud
Rogue Theatre
Eroica Trio
Tucson Jazz Society Neamen Lyles
Tucson Jazz Society, Dmitri Matheny
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arts Z
Performing Arts Season Highlights by Herb Stratford
Invisible Theatre This season, the Invisible Theatre has a really unique event on its schedule entitled Hollywood Revisited, which pairs music, performance and vintage Hollywood costumes together. Featuring pianist Greg Schreiner and his world-famous vintage movie costume collection, which will be worn by performers who will sing songs from the films they were used in. This multi-genre event takes place for only one show, on December 16, at the Berger Center for the Performing Arts. Other shows in the 2012-2013 season (the theatre’s 42nd include Motherhood Out Loud from September 5-23, and Mesa from November 14-December 2. January will feature the Tucson premiere of Celebration, featuring Valarie Pettiford singing and dancing Broadway hits, followed by First Kisses, an Arizona premiere about a lifelong relationship between a unique couple. Wrapping up the season are You Say Tomato, I Say Shut Up! on March 9 and The Fox on the Fairway from April 17-May 5. A special return of A Conversation with Edith Head will also be on tap for October 11-14, which has now been presented in several other states to rave reviews. InvisibleTheatre.com
Rogue Theatre The Rogue Theatre Company is ready to continue amazing and entertaining audiences with a series of five compelling works this season. Both Artistic Director Joseph McGrath and Managing Director Cynthia Meier are excited to debut their first production of the season, Journey to the West, which tells the tale of a 16th century monk traveling from China to India, from September 6—23. The Night Heron follows from November 1-18 followed by Mother Courage on January 10-27 and Kafka’s Monkey, along with Metamorphosis, on February 28-March 17. The season ends with a performance of Shakespeare’s Richard III from April 25-May 12. Another exciting development for The Rogue Theatre this season is the addition of a resident company of actors 11 in all - who will perform in all works this year. This is a first for the Rogue, and a milestone for the company and the actors, in that they all will be working as a troupe on all productions. TheRogueTheatre.org
Tucson Jazz Society
Valerie Pettiford, Invisible Theatre
The Jazz Society has been on a roll as of late, presenting a steady stream of both local and nationally recognized talent all year long. That tradition will continue in 2012-2013 with a great mix of events. Executive Director Sandy Riser is looking forward to the diverse and unique programming that make up their season with literally “something for everyone.” While October and November shows, largely at Tohono Chul Park, again will feature local talent and bigger names, as the headliners for the the seventh annual New Year’s Eve event at the J.W. Marriott will bring must-see acts. A new twist for that annual show is a partnership with local and national Autism groups to raise funds and awareness for their work. One new event in March is entitled Jazz Del Sol and will feature both jazz and blues when it debuts at the Casino Del Sol. This “destination” event will also offer overnight accommodations for patrons who want to make an evening of it, much like the New Year’s Eve show does at the J.W. Marriott. For more information on upcoming shows visit TucsonJazz.org.
Tucson Symphony Orchestra The Tucson Symphony Orchestra’s 2012-2013 season features a mix of traditional offerings as well as unique musical programs. The Classics Series boasts crowd pleasers such as the Eroica Trio, performing Beethoven’s triple concerto on October 5 and 7, and the return of acclaimed violinist Joshua Bell on February 16. Additionally, an all-new Holiday Pops! Show, The Magic of Christmas, will feature the Symphony as well as the TSO Chorus, Tucson Boys Chorus and other guests on December 22 and 23. Rounding out the season are special shows like the Indigo Girls January 19, a concert by the group Pink Martini on March 16, and Ballroom With A Twist on January 26 and 27, an event that combines world-class ballroom dancing, music and more. Verdi’s Requiem is set for February 15 and 17, and a performance of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons on January 12 and 13, both sure to please. A new series at the Fox Tucson Theatre entitled TSO Rocks The Fox! features the music of Michael Jackson on October 12, and the music of Queen on April 5. Visit TucsonSymphony.org for the full schedule, ticket information and concert locations.
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Z arts
Performing Arts Season Highlights by Herb Stratford
UApresents
With 34 different acts on the schedule this season, UAPresents continues to deliver a great blend of world-class performing arts in many genres. A pair of musical performances open the season this year. First up is singer-songwriter Bonnie Raitt on September 26, followed by piano prodigy Lang Lang, making his return to Tucson on October 28. Other standout performances include satirist David Sedaris on November 27, the return of Zoppe Family Circus on January 12-13, who wowed crowds last season. World-class musical artists Chick Corea and Gary Burton perform on January 19, the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra performs on February 1, and Wynton Marsalis and the Lincoln Center Orchestra will be in town on March 9. Dance is also represented this season with MOMIX “Botanica” on February 24, the Limon Dance Company on March 24, Aszure Barton & Artists on November 3 and Alonzo Lines Ballet on February 10. Another highlight, the Broadway musical FELA! will be on stage April 12 and 13. Celebrating the life of a Nigerian dissident, and full of great music and dance coupled with a compelling story about the power of one man to make a change, the show promises to be both memorable and inspiring. This show also ends a dry spell of sorts for UAPresents in terms of presenting Broadway shows at Centennial Hall. For a look at the full UApresents schedule visit UApresents.org.
Zuzi! Dance Company photo: Larry Hanelin
Zuzi! Dance
photo: Courtesy UApresents
Tucson’s venerable ZUZI! Dance Company will present four events to wind down 2012. First up is Frida Kahlo: Blood and Gold, in which the company interprets the life and art of the Mexican painter using modern, flamenco and aerial dance techniques. The performances will feature special guest artist Barbara Schluessler and will take place September 28 and 29. The No Frills Dance Happenin’ takes place October 26, featuring both adult and children’s performers in a variety of movement performances. On November 30 and December 1 the company will present Family and Friends Informance, which showcases the ZUZI! School student’s movement skills and artistic development. Finally, wrapping up FELA! the year is the Winter Solstice Gala: Celebrating 15 Years of Dance, on December 15. This show will celebrate their anniversary with an evening of modern and aerial dance featuring a cast of multi-generational artists. Guest artists include Lindianne Sarno, Nathan Dryden, Henry Graham and others. This celebration of both the changing season and ZUZI’s history will make for a special evening.
MOMIX “Botanica”
photo: Courtesy UApresents
ourtesy photo: C
UApresen
ts
Bonnie Raitt
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art Galleries & exhibits ARTSEYE GALLERY 3550 E. Grant Rd. 327-7291. ArtsEye.com CENTER FOR CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY Photo Friday: Family takes place Fri, Sept 7. Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm; Sun, noon-5pm. 1030 N. Olive Rd. 621-7968, CreativePhotography.org
CONTRERAS GALLERY Deities by Wallace Begay opens Sat, Sept 1 with a reception from 6pm-10pm. Tues-Fri 11am-5pm, Sat 11am-4pm. 110 E. 6th St. 3986557, ContrerasHouseFineArt.com
DAVIS DOMINGUEZ GALLERY
Take Five, a group landscape painting exhibit, begins Fri, Sept 21. Picture reception Sat, Oct 6 from 6pm-8pm. Thu-Fri, 11am-5pm; Sat, 11am-4pm. 154 E. 6th St. 629-9759, DavisDominguez.com
DEGRAZIA GALLERY IN THE SUN Daily, 10am-4pm. 6300 N. Swan Rd. 299-9191, DeGrazia.org
THE DRAWING STUDIO
Capturing Nature’s Lights: Landscapes by TDS Associates shows Sat, Sept 1- Sat, Sept 29. Tue-Sat, noon-4pm. 33 S. 6th Ave. 6200947, TheDrawingStudio.org
ETHERTON GALLERY Danny Lyon: The Bikeriders opens Sat, Sept 8 with a reception from 7pm-10pm. Tue-Sat, 11am-5pm. 135 S. 6th Ave. 624-7370, EthertonGallery.com
ESPRESSO ART CAFE
In The Moment: Images from 1978- 2 Weeks Ago continues through Sat, Sept 29. Diverse group of documentary images. Mon-Sun: 7am-12am. Free. Espresso Art Cafe, 942 E. University Blvd.
FLORENCE QUATER GALLERY
Fees and tuition vary. The Art Center Design College, 2525 N. Country Club Rd. 325-0123, SUVA.edu
FLUXX STUDIO AND GALLERY
Conforming Dimension by Timothy Steehler opens Thu, Sept 23.Fluxx Studio and Gallery, 414 E. 9th St. Fluxxproductions.com
GEORGE STRASBURGER STUDIO AND GALLERY Closing reception of George Strasburger and photographer Alfonso Elia takes place Sat, Sept 8 from 7pm-10pm.Thu-Sat, 11am-4pm and by appointment. 172 E. Toole St. 8822160, GeorgeStrasburger.com
JOSEPH GROSS GALLERY Subdivision #3 by Cheryl Molnar begins Thu, Sept 6 Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm; Sat-Sun, 10am-4pm. 1031 N. Olive Rd. 626-4215, CFA. arizona.edu/galleries
LIONEL ROMBACH GALLERY The Sum of the Sequence From Then Until Now is Not Equal to Here Multiplied by There by Karen deClouet, Jennifer Day and Anna Garner shows Tue, Sept 4- Wed, Sept 12. Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm; Sat-Sun, 10am4pm. 1031 N. Olive Rd. 624-4215, CFA.arizona.edu/galleries
LOUIS CARLOS BERNAL GALLERY.
Desert Initiative: Looking Across the Border continues through Fri, Oct 5. Gallery Talk: Sat, Sept 13 from 1:30pm2:30pm. Reception: Sat, Sept 13 5pm-7pm. Mon, Wed 10:30am-5pm; Tue, Thu 10am-5pm; Fri 10am-3pm. 2202 W. Anklam Rd. 206-6942, Pima.Edu/cfa
MADARAS GALLERY 2013 Calendar Celebration
begins with an Official Calender Signing on Sat, Sept 8; 11am-1pm.Mon-Saturday 10am-6pm; Sun 11am.5:00 pm plus Art Walk every Thursday 5-7 Mon-Sat, 10am-6pm; Sun, 11am-5pm. 3001 E. Skyline Dr, #101. 623-4000, Madaras.com.
MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART Wed-Sun, noon-5pm. $8, adults;
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free, children under 12, members, military; free to all second Wednesday of the month. 265 S. Church Ave. 624-5019, MOCA-Tucson.org
Photo courtesy of George Strasburger Studio/Gallery.
“The Trafficker” by George Strasburger will be featured at the closing gallery with photographer Alfonso Elia, Sat, Sept 8 at George Strasburger Studio and Gallery
OBSIDIAN GALLERY Obsidian Gallery, 410 N. Toole Ave., #120. 577-3598, Obsidian-Gallery.com
PHILABAUM GLASS GALLERY
& STUDIO Tue-Sat, 10am-5pm. 711 S.
6th Ave. 884-7404, PhilabaumGlass.com
PORTER HALL GALLERY Desierto by Patricia Katchur continues through Mon, Sept 3. Gardener by Day, Artist by Night opens Thu, Sept 6. $8, Adults; $4, Children 4-12; Free, Children 3 and younger. 2150 N. Alvernon Way. 326-9686, TucsonBotanical.org
RAICES TALLER 222 ART GALLERY Fri-Sat, 1pm-5pm & by appointment. 218 E. 6th St. 881-5335, RaicesTaller222.webs.com
SACRED MACHINE
3rd Annual Santa Muerte Music & Arts Festival, Sept 1-Nov 4. Opening celebration, Sept 7. Wed-Fri, 1pm-4pm; Sat, 4pm-9pm; Sun, 3pm-6pm. 245 E. Congress St. 777-7403, SacredMachine.com
STONE DRAGON STUDIO
Wed-Sat, 11am-4pm & by appointment, 4055800. 1122 N. Stone Ave. 624-7099, HolyJoeStudio.com
TEMPLE GALLERY Ann Simmons-Myers: Bikers continues through Tue, Oct 16 with a reception Fri, Sept 21 from 5:30pm- 7:30pm. 100 Years 100 Ranchers: Photographs by Scott T. Baxter continues through Sun, Sept 23. Tucson Collects: Spirits of the West continues through Sun, Sept 23. Mon–Fri, 10am-5pm. 330 S. Scott Ave. 624-7370, EthertonGallery.com
TUCSON MUSEUM OF ART
Tucson Collects: Spirit of the West continues through Sun, Sept 23. Wed, Fri, Sat: 10am-5pm; Thu: 10am-8pm; Sun, noon-5pm. $10, adults; $8, seniors; $5, students 13+; free, children under 12. Free to all the first Sunday of the month. 140 N. Main Ave. 624-2333, TucsonMuseumofArt.org
UA ART MUSEUM Joshua Olivera “Palimpsest: An Image of What Once Was” continues through Sun, Sept 2. Tue-Fri, 9am-5pm; Sat-Sun, noon-4pm. $5 adults; children/students/faculty, free. 1031 N. Olive Rd. ArtMuseum.arizona.edu
UA POETRY CENTER From Here and Far Away begins Mon, Sept 10 Mon/ Thurs, 9am-8pm; Tues/Wed, 9am-6pm; Fri, 9am-5pm. 1508 E. Helen St. 626-3765, Poetry.Arizona.Edu
WILDE MEYER GALLERY Dog Days 20 continues through Wed, Sept 5. Under Monsoon Skies continues through Wed, Sept 5. Interpretations of the Southwest continues through Sat, Sept 1. Mon-Fri, 10am-5:30pm. Wilde Meyer Gallery, 3001 E. Skyline Dr. WildeMeyer.com
September 2012 | THEZMAG.com 23
photo: David Olsen
Z business
Miguel Fuentevilla and Sonya Sotinsky.
FORSight
By Teya Vitu
photo: Bill Timmerman, courtesy of FORS
photo: courtesy of FORS
Playground
24 THEZMAG.com | September 2012
Blanco
business Z She is the lead on some projects, he takes the lead on some projects. It’s not really about the buildings or furnishings for married archi“When she’s the lead, she has the final say. When I’m the lead, I have the tects Miguel Fuentevilla and Sonya Sotinsky. Perhaps you know their final say,” Fuentevilla said. names, perhaps you don’t. You do, however, most certainly know their Before they started FORS, while they still lived in Berkeley, Fuentevilla interior designs. They are the design team behind HUB Restaurant & was the lead designer re-imagining the ghastly 1970’s Park Mall into Park Ice Creamery with its upside-down lamp shades, Playground Lounge and Place with its barrel vaulting and endless skylights. “When Miguel told me its swings suspended above the bar and marbles ground into the floor, he got that as a job, I just laughed, because the place was such a dog,” Downtown Kitchen+Cocktails, Borderlands Brewing Co. and the new Sotinsky recalled. eatery opening soon at 50 E. Broadway. They returned to Tucson in 1997 after seven years in the Bay Area to Beyond Downtown, Fuentevilla and Sotinsky have delivered their whimstart their own architecture firm. sical touches to North (in Tucson, Austin, Denver and Phoenix), Zinburger, “I was hugely pregnant when we moved here,” Sotinsky said. Blanco, Tavolino (and its San Diego sister, Isola Pizzeria), Sir Vezas and “She was eight months pregnant and we had to paint the house,” Fudozens more restaurants, offices, and homes they have designed from the entevilla added. ground up. “We wanted to open a business, buy a house and have a kid – all in “We definitely like to have fun moments with all our restaurants,” Sotinthe same month,” Sotinsky continued. sky said. Starting a company coincided with wanting to enter an architecture They like to have fun moments with any waking moment, it seems competition put on by Metropolitan Home magazine. The only problem: their conference room has dark blue Astroturf as carpet and running up they didn’t even have a business name yet. On the spur of the moment one wall – Sotinsky calls it “shag” – and the open office area has white they came up with FORS. Astroturf on one wall (normally used for hash marks and lines on sports FORS has had high-profile projects all along, but until this year their fields). “We have one person a day just come in to touch it,” Fuentevilla office was anything but high-profile. They worked out of their Sam Hughes said. Neighborhood home until moving onto Congress this year. “I did North Fuentevilla and Sotinsky are the names behind FORSarchitecture + (restaurant) in Austin out of my bedroom,” Fuentevilla said. interiors, 245 E. Congress St. The’ve been in business for fifteen years, They actually had a back bedroom that served as an office, and in and since January 2012 in the Congress Street location. FORS stands for 2007 they added an office to their home with a separate entrance. “We ‘Fuentevilla OR Sotinsky‘. Not “and” - rather, “or.” They are both equally were laboring anonymously,” Fuentevilla colorful personalities à la Cary Grant and Rosaid. “Now we are front and center. People salind Russell or Spencer Tracy and Kathaare recognizing us.” rine Hepburn, except Fuentevilla and SotinLast year they realized they should be sky bring this wit and sparkle to the world of “Our philosophy is of Downtown. “We were trying to convince architecture and interior design. storytelling through our people that Downtown is this great place and “People sometimes come to us and say ‘I projects,” Sotinsky said. “Even we were holed up in Sam Hughes,” Fuentjust want a set of drawings to get a permit.’ if they don’t see our story, they evilla said. “It was time to be part of the urReally?” Fuentevilla said. “We try to get them ban fabric of Downtown.” Sotinsky was less to buy into the project, so they put value into feel something experientially.” enthusiastic, at first. that design. They get to the point where they “Initially, I was opposed to moving out. say ‘I have to have that faucet.” How does I’ll have to drive to work,” she said. (Mind this transformation unfold? Clients have to you, they live barely 2 miles from Congress and 5th Avenue.) “Now becomplete a multi-page questionnaire that addresses matters such as who ing down here and feeling all the energy, I just love being here on a daily are you and how do you live, so that FORS can create a unique project taibasis.” lored to the client. “Our philosophy is of storytelling through our projects,” FORSarchitecture+interiors is in the street-level commercial addition Sotinsky said. “Even if they don’t see our story, they feel something expeto the One North Fifth Apartments. Their neighbors are Sparkroot, Xoom rientially.” It really isn’t just about buildings and interiors for the FORS Juice, Yoga Oasis and Sacred Machine. couple - it’s about creating an environment. “It’s giving it a life,” FuentTheir landlord is Scott Stiteler, who owns the One North Fifth complex, evilla said. “It’s more about a space than architecture. I think people want the Congress Street buildings across the street with HUB and Playground to be part of something, belong to something.” and he co-owns the Rialto Building with the Mars and Beyond exhibit. Sotinsky and Fuentevilla met at architecture school at the University of FORS designed the interiors of HUB and Playground and is master planArizona. Sotinsky grew up in New Jersey but had an aunt and uncle who ning the future use of the Rialto Building. lived in Tucson and grandparents who snowbirded in the city. Fuentevilla You’d think it’s a natural progression that the FORS office ended up in is a Tucson native, born to Cuban refugee parents who were recruited as Stiteler’s building. Sotinsky was aghast when Stiteler suggested it: faculty for the opening year at Pima Community College. Sotinsky went on “Why don’t you go in here,” Stiteler offered. to graduate school at UC Berkeley and Fuentevilla followed her. They mar“That’s horrible,” Sotinsky responded. “You don’t put an office in a ried while living in Berkeley and joined separate architecture firms. Sotinstore front.” sky’s firm tended toward residential projects, and Fuentevilla’s focused on “It will be great,” Stiteler encouraged. commercial projects. To this day, if there even is a distinction between the “Now we can’t leave,” Sotinsky said. “Next month we are going to do two, Sotinsky leans residential and Fuentevilla commercial. But since the a tiny little gift shop up front with modern gifts and small housewares.” 2008 economic downturn, residential architecture has gone on the shelf, and FORS does more interiors than architecture. FORSarchitecture+interiors is located at 245 E. Congress, #135, Even when they designed custom homes, both easily crossed over from 520.795.9888 and at ForsArchitecture.com This article appears courtesy commercial to residential. “It’s not a straight line at all. On every single of DowntownTucson.org n project we collaborate,” Sotinsky said.
September 2012 | THEZMAG.com 25
Z business
Come Discover The Avenue at The Screening Room by Emily Gindlesparger
“I see the Screening Room as this gem that not everyone knows about,” says Karen Greene, one of the founders of Mind Our Own Businesses, a community group focused on getting people downtown and on 4th Avenue while the street construction fences are up. Her latest project: getting folks to come see The Avenue, a documentary on Tucson’s 4th Avenue and its attendant thriving, non-corporate arts district. The film is showing at the Screening Room on September 15th. The Avenue showed twice at the Arizona International Film Festival to sold-out crowds, and was awarded Best of Arizona in the show. In an interview with Arizona Public Media, director Alan Williams described his film as an exploration of how this rich local culture survives outside the grips of corporate takeover. “There’s something to be said for what a motivated group of independent artists and business people can do under their own power, and without the help of the city, and sort of working on their own independently and out of absolute necessity, out of sheer survival and self-preservation,” Williams explained. In the film he makes the rounds of businesspeople, artists and regulars, letting them speak from their own experience contributing to the local scene. “It’s always great to see places and people that you recognize on film,” Greene says of watching the film at the Arizona International Film Festival. “It’s great to see people that you don’t know but that you might see all the time, and to see them on film describing why they’re passionate about 4th Avenue; that really resonated. I thought, ‘Yes! That’s exactly it! You put that into words I can’t come up with.’” But for Greene, the whole city plays a part in seeing the avenue thrive. “Everything that Mind Our Own Businesses is doing is all about a reminder to the entire city of Tucson that if you don’t support these businesses—if you don’t go out and spend some money at these businesses—they’re going to go away.” It’s a long shot, she explains, but if shops go out of business, what if the modern streetcar goes up and suddenly that looks like great space for national chains? It would change the whole funky local character of the area that this film, The Avenue, is trying to bring to light. At the Screening Room, “they really like bringing in stuff that’s local and supporting the local filmmakers,” Greene says, “and when choosing a place to show the film, the Screening Room was a perfect downtown locale that, if we’re lucky, will be free of construction fencing by the premiere.” But if not, Greene urges you to come support the theater and the show behind the chain link. “The things you see there, you’ll never see anywhere else,” she explains. It’s a statement that could apply equally well to our unique and beloved 4th Avenue. The Avenue screens Saturday, September 15th at 7:30pm. Tickets $4 (to celebrate 4th Avenue). Q & A with director Alan Williams after the show. Location: The Screening Room, 127 E. Congress St., 882-0204. For more information, check out Mind Our Own Businesses on Facebook, and find “The Avenue” in their events, or look at the film’s site, TheAvenueDocumentary.com n
26 THEZMAG.com | September 2012
...“Congress Street” continued from page 5...
Lulu’s Shake Shoppe opens for business on Oct. 15 at 5 p.m. Travis Reese and Nicole Flowers are finally ready for their Congress Street debut after two years on a stretch of Scott Avenue that an Olympic long jumper could leap sidewalk-to-sidewalk. Reese and Flowers instantly became media darlings when they opened 47 Scott in May 2010, followed next door with Scott & Co. in October 2010. Sunset magazine, the Chicago Tribune, the New York Times, the Los Angeles times and numerous airline magazines have shortlisted 47 Scott as a Tucson dining must. “I just got an email. Food & Wine wants to do something,” Reese said. Travel and dining media will undoubtedly have more to write about once Reese and Flowers open their Saint House, 256 E. Congress, in the former Sharks Lounge location at the westernmost extent of Stiteler’s Congress holdings. “We have just been wanting to work with Scott because he has such a vision,” Reese said. “We wanted to work with people doing such great projects. 47 Scott was always supposed to be the start of something. We never knew what.” They have dreamed up a Caribbean theme for Congress Street. “Saint House is based on cuisine where rum is made, from Venezuela to Miami,” Reese said. “We are encompassing food from that region. We wanted to do something unique.” Reese said the ambition is to open Saint House before the gem show. “January 1 would make us happy. Jan. 20 would make us just as happy,” Reese said. This article originally appeared at DowntownTucson.org n
September 2012 | THEZMAG.com 27
28 THEZMAG.com | September 2012
photo: Sarah Imholt
business Z
by Phoenix Michael Our beloved United States Postal Service has struggled to find its footing in the digital age. Emails, texts and tweets have undermined the venerable institution’s long-standing tradition of delivery, whether “rain or shine,” to the point of near-bankruptcy. All is not lost, however! Unique among the nation, Tucson’s own Postal History Foundation at 920 N. 1st Ave. is hard at work teaching future generations to love stamps. Board member and enthusiastic tour guide Paul A. Nelson describes the PHF’s approximately fifty volunteers as a “fellowship,” and their camaraderie is indeed palpable. Knowledgeable Nelson clearly enjoys showing visitors the hand-operated cancellation devices, padlocks, badges, scales and other exquisite postal machinery (some dating back to the 1890s) housed within the PHF’s walls. Six days a week, dedicated individuals peel and preserve the “many cubic yards” of used postage received by this nonprofit organization annually. Those stamps are then recycled for educational purposes. Although the PHF is “primarily oriented around postal history,” it always seeks to “weave in other events,” says librarian/archivist Lisa Hodgkins. “Our main purpose is children’s field trips and activities. In the last school year we worked with ten thousand children” nationwide, Hodgkins tells us. “They love it!” A delightful exhibit titled “New Guinea: Stamps, Coins, and Tribal Art” runs throughout the month of September at PHF’s Peggy J. Slusser Memorial Philatelic Library. Featuring artifacts collected by Tucson High School graduate Ron Perry and his wife Carolyn Leigh during their decades of travel abroad, this eye-opening look at South Pacific culture costs nothing to view during PHF open hours Monday-Saturday. The Postal History Foundation isn’t ignorant of the internet’s allure. Homeschoolers, classroom teachers and amateur philatelists, take note; you’ll find fun worksheets and puzzles to download at PostalHistoryFoundation.org. Foundation hours: Mon.-Fri. • 8 a.m.-3 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Post Office hours: Mon.-Fri. • 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m. 920 N. 1st Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85719 520-623-6652 n
photo: David Olsen
The Stamp of History
Out Of This World by Phoenix Michael Seen from the outside, a superhero’s headquarters only hints at the universe-protecting hardware held within. Superman’s Fortress of Solitude and Batman’s Batcave were elegant in design, built into their environments and hiding secrets only their respective crime-fighting architects could unlock. The storefront exterior of R-Galaxy at 2420 N. Campbell Ave. similarly camouflages a trove of extraordinary wares stored inside. This comics and collectibles mecca is home to all things cosmic, a spot where imagination comes to life. From Golden Age back issues to manga and the latest graphic novels, this is a store full of stories with a yarn for seemingly everyone. Familiar characters abound, with Marvel and DC favorites appearing alongside Austin Powers and Lord of The Rings figurines. The Simpsons are well-represented, as are The X-Men. “Batman: Arkham City” and “KISS: Psycho Circus” action figures grace a wall, while across the room boxes of “Magic: The Gathering” trading cards, rows of CDs and the requisite Star Wars memorabilia are found. A “Godzilla: King of the Monsters” micro-battle playset and hardcover copies of “The Sweeter Side of R. Crumb” and “Bat Boy: The Weekly World News Comic Strips” are featured alongside countless keychains and character caps, posters and puzzles. Most impressive is R-Galaxy’s immense assortment of Japanese animation titles for rental. Aficionados and dabblers alike will discover a selection of films and series, from humorous to romantic to action-packed, wide enough to satisfy their anime yen. The self-professed anime-loving staff welcome special orders for anime DVDs, when available domestically, with a simple cash deposit. For title availability, call (520) 322-0422. In a nod to tradition, R-Galaxy offers free subscription service for your favorite comics. Having served Tucsonans in three locations since 1993, they take this so-called funny pages business seriously. It’s as easy as stopping in monthly to pick up your books; in the words of the great Stan Lee, “‘nuff said.” Soar into R-Galaxy Tuesday-Friday from 11am to 8pm and SaturdayMonday 11am to 6pm, as well as online at R-Galaxy.com. n
September 2012 | THEZMAG.com 29
september
Z events
Sat 1-Mon 3 SONOITA LABOR DAY RODEO
Old West rodeo, barrel racing, wild-horse race and team roping events at the Sonoita Fairgrounds. Pre-rodeo begins at 1pm daily with kids rodeo. Admission: $10 for adults, $5 for kids ages 5-12, 4 and under free. Sonoita Fairgrounds, 3142 S. Highway 83. 455-5553, SonoitaFairgrounds.com
Fri 21- Sat 29 ARIZONA FESTIVAL
UNDERGROUND
ONGOING FILM
SKYNIGHTS Nightly tours of the universe as part
Arizona’s only cult film festival features Arizona, national, and worldwide premiere screenings. Costs/times/locations vary. AZUnderGroundFilmFest.com
of the stargazing program. 5pm nightly, lasting approximately four-five hours. $60/adult includes a light dinner. Mount Lemmon Sky Center, see website for directions. 626-8122, Skycenter.arizona.edu
Sat 22
Mondays
Wed 3
COOKS AND CHORDS A taste for a world free
SAGUARO NATIONAL PARK LABOR DAY RUN The Southern Arizona Roadrunners pres-
of MS. Chef-prepared dishes and acoustic music. $50 per person. 6pm-9pm. Chinese Cultural Center, 1288 W. River Rd. 292-6900, KXCI.org
ent a morning run through Saguaro National Park in the Rincon Mountain foothills. Visit website to register. Saguaro National Park, 3693 S. Old Spanish Trail Rd. 326-9383, Azroadrunners.org/races/detail/saguaro
Sat 8 2ND SATURDAYS DOWNTOWN
A free, family-friendly urban block party! Free. 6pm-10:30pm. Congress Street and Sixth Avenue. 2ndSaturdaysDowntown.com
THIRD ANNUAL NATIONAL OVARIAN CANCER COALITION TEAL TEA Celebrate survivors and their families with a silent auction and tea. $40 per person. 2pm-4pm. Sheraton Hotel and Suites, 5151 E. Grant Rd. 323-6262, KXCI.org
Sat 22-Sun 23 MCMANN ROADRUNNER GUN AND KNIFE SHOW Review a selection of antique and modern fire arms. Admission: $9.50, children 12 and under free. Tucson Convention Center, 260 S. Church Ave. 837-4753, DowntownTucson.org
Thu 20-Sun 23 ST. DEMETRIOS GREEK FESTIVAL Greek food, drink, music, dance lessons, children’s activities, tours of the church & vendor displays. $3. Times vary. 1145 E. Fort Lowell Rd. 888-0505, StDemTucson.org
Thu 27-Sun 30 TUCSON SPANISH FLAMENCO FESTIVAL
Sat 15 Gala of dance and music. Flamenco dancers, belly dancers and featured guest Amaya. 7:30pm-9:30pm. TCC’s Leo Rich Tucson, 260 S. Church Ave. 881-0883, DowntownTucson.org
Thurs: Moda Flamenca & Guitarras Flamencas; Fri: Flamenco del Pueblo Viejo & Flamenco Party; Sat: Flamenco del Pueblo Viejo & Juncal Street performers; Sun: Familias Flamencas. Costs/times vary. Casa Vicente, 375 S. Stone Ave. 884-5253, TucsonSpanishFlamencoFestival.com
Sun 16
Fri 28
MEDITERRANEAN NIGHTS
CELEBRATION OF THROUGH THE ARTS
EDUCATION
Old Tucson transforms into a haunted town with monsters and ghouls! Thu-Sun nights through Sun, Oct 28. Old Tucson, 201 S. Kinney Rd. 883-0100, NightFallAz.com
Sat 29 THIN MINT SPRINT AND SAVANNAH SMILES FUN RUN Hosted by the Girl Scouts of Southern Arizona. 7:30am-10:30am. See website for registration. Brandi Fenton Park. 319-3175, GirlScoutsAZ.org
30 THEZMAG.com | September 2012
Tucson Spanish Flamenco Festival takes place Thu, Sept 27- Sun, Sept 30.
Southern Arizona Roadrunners’ Monday evening, noncompetitive, social 3-mile run/walk, that begins and ends downtown at Hotel Congress, rain/shine/holidays included! 311 E. Congress St. 991-0733, MeetMeAtMaynards.com
Thursdays SANTA CRUZ RIVER FARMERS’ MARKET Locally grown fruits and vegetables, plants, flowers, canned goods, honey, baked goods, eggs, gourds, herbal remedies, more. 4pm-7pm. Mercado San Agustin, 100 S. Avenida del Convento. CommunityFoodBank.com
YOGA IN THE GARDENS Series of four classes. $40. 8am-9pm. Tucson Botanical Gardens, 2150 N. Alvernon Way. 326-9686, TucsonBotanical.org
Thu-Sun NIGHTFALL AT OLD TUCSON
Old Tucson transforms into a haunted town with monsters and ghouls! Wed-Sun nights through Mon, Oct 31. Old Tucson, 201 S. Kinney Rd. 883-0100, NightFallAz.com
Saturdays MAYNARDS’ FARMERS’ MARKET Fresh, local products from 20+ local and regional vendors. 8am-noon. Maynards’ patio, 400 N. Toole Ave. MaynardsMarket.com
Photo courtesy of TucsonSpanichFlamencoFestival.com
Experience creative and educational displays with live music performances reflecting the theme “Awakening Planetary Divine Pattern.” Free; Donations accepted. 3pm. Avalon Organic Gardens and Eco Village, 2074 Pendleton Drv 6039932, GlobalChangeMultiMedia.org
NIGHTFALL AT OLD TUCSON
MEET ME AT MAYNARDS (@Hotel Congress)
September 2012 | THEZMAG.com 31
Z events
Food Truck Roundups
The 3rd Annual SANTA MUERTE MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL
Paul Barnes (Scotland), Black Magic Cat, 2012, $1300
photo: Roy Chamberlin
Sept 1 – Nov 4
Sept 5, 5-8pm Sportsman’s Warehouse, 3945 W. Costco Drive.
Sept 6, 5-8pm TJ Maxx at northeast corner of Broadway/Wilmot.
Sept 20, 5-9pm
Celebrating the folklore of the southwest and showcasing some of the most important underground musicians and cutting-edge local and international visionary artists. This is a grassroots event created and inspired by artists and musicians. A music event features 18 musical performances, most of which are all-ages and free to the public, with two performances from Los Angeles artists. Located at Sacred Machine Museum, 245 E. Congress St. Suite 123, 520-777-7403. Details at SacredmMachine.com
1st Annual Tucson Beer Cup Sept 21, 7-10pm
Following the success of the sold out summer beer tastings and dinners, Hotel Congress debuts the first annual Born & Brewed: Tucson’s Beer Cup to celebrate Tucson’s best barley & hops! Local breweries will go “head to head” to win the people’s choice vote for best brew in Tucson. Nimbus, Borderlands, Dragoon, Thunder Canyon, Barrio and 1702 will bring two of their best beers for the public to sample. The public decides who wins “Tucson’s Best Beer.” Winners will receive a handle in the Tap Room at Hotel Congress for a year, plus a giant trophy to display until it’s passed on to next year’s winner. In addition to the beers, plenty of gourmet beer snacks will be on hand (complimentary and some for purchase) to nosh; plus country rock tunes to keep the party going. Tickets available online at www.hotelcongress.com or at the Hotel Congress front desk.
32 THEZMAG.com | September 2012
“Food, Art, and Drag”, Dinnerware Artspace, 425 W. Sixth Street. Food trucks, art on the walls, and drag show in the parking lot!
Sept 22, 5-9pm “Let Them Eat Cupcakes” Dinnerware Artspace, 425 W. Sixth Street. Artist, interactive performance with Elizabeth Tobias regarding views on hunger.
Pima Prickly Park opening Sept 22, sunrise -sunset
A nine-acre desert public park to highlight opuntias (prickly pear and cholla) and other genera, will be open for the enjoyment of all with trails, covered ramadas and benches to enjoy the view. A highlight of the park is Saguarohenge, designed in the park as a sacred place to celebrate the ancient relationships between people and the Sonoran Desert through a pathway experience. An entrance garden to the park will be the focal point, which will be a multi-year undertaking. In time, mature plantings of the native Palo Verde tree with green bark and yellow blooms, native purple Santa Rita Prickly Pear cactus with yellow flowers, and cholla with red and many other flower colors will yield a sensational splash of color. An Agave Garden is also planned across from Saguarohenge. Educational facilities, demonstration, research, and a Hummingbird garden are planned. The park is brought to you by the Tucson Cactus and Succulent Society, in a collaborative effort with Pima County Natural Resources Parks and Recreation, and other community organizations. Pima Prickly Park is located at 3500 W. River Road. More information at 256-2447 or tucsoncactus.org.
events Z Greek Festival 2012 Sept 20, 5-10pm, Sept 21, 5-11pm Sept 22, 4-11pm, Sept 23, 12-6pm
If it’s Greek Festival time, Tucsonans know that the official end of our long, hot Summer is near. The 4-day gala features a mouth-watering array of traditional Greek dishes like Souvlaki, Saganaki Flambé, Spanakopita, Baklava, and more, as well as live music, dancing, and cooking demonstrations. The newly expanded Greek Market is not to be missed – featuring rare finds like locally made Greek Spice Blends and Rubs; homemade Hummus, and freshly mixed Greek Salads conveniently packaged so guests can whet their appetites before the “main event”. Imported products like Greek Coffee, “Brikis,” - the copper pots used to make Greek coffee, Greek candies, demitasse sets and more will also be available at the market. The Greek Festival takes place at St Demetrios Church, 1145 East Ft. Lowell Rd. More information at stdemtucson.org
Pecha Kucha 20x20 Sept 27, 7-9pm
AIGA Arizona presents Tucson’s first Pecha Kucha at Barrio Brewing. In conjunction with Phx Design week, which charters a bus to Tucson, PechaKucha 20x20 is a simple presentation format where 20 images are shown, each for 20 seconds. Presenters include Simon Donovan, Ken Godat, Aaron Reyes, Jamie Williams, Joe Pagac, Richie Brevaire, and Charles Pife. It’s an informal and fun gathering where creative people get together to share their ideas, works, thoughts, holiday snaps – just about anything, really – in the PechaKucha 20x20 format. Learn more about this international trend, at Pecha-kucha.org
September 2012 | THEZMAG.com 33
Z fashion
Neon Nights
by Puspa Lohmeyer
Toxic Teens and Day Glow Dreams. What’s a pretty young girl to do past curfew? Caught in her toxic teens with her parents out on the town she’s left alone to concoct an atomic cocktail all her own. Dreaming of neon nights and day glow days to come, she whiles away pool side in a fantasy of one. Credits: Creative Director + Photographer: Puspa Lohmeyer. Stylist: Sydney Ballesteros. Model: Jesseca Haag. Hair: Raul Mendoza. Makeup:Sydney Ballesteros. Props: Ed Smith + Ariel Robinson. Photo Assistant: Ariel Robinson.
34 THEZMAG.com | September 2012
fashion Z
Decoding Printed Denim
By Yekatherina Bruner
Just because you love to wear denim jeans doesn’t
denim with a solid top in the same color palette. This
Yekatherina Bruner is a local fashion stylist and
mean your look needs to be the same every day. Last
will guarantee a fresh and effortless look. If you are
personal shopper. Visit her website at
spring, fashion runways around the world displayed
looking for a head-to-toe textured look, follow the
Ykstudioonline.com
the widest variety of printed denim we have ever seen
same rule and keep both your top and bottom prints
and now printed jeans are promised to be the hottest
in color harmony.
trend this fall. “I love the floral pant craze right now” says Chris-
Pair a lighter wash denim shirt with your printed
Credits: Photos by Allan Sturm. Styled by Yekatherina Bruner.
jeans and don’t worry about committing a fashion
Model: Morgan Chmielowiec. Hair and makeup:
tina Henneke, owner of Swindlers, located on 906 E.
faux-pas. When you do it right, it becomes a fashion
Starla Cocio. Location: LoveSmack Studios
University Blvd. You can find them in eye catching
do. Your neutral tops will be your best friends when
patterns like leopard print, stripes, polka dots or
wearing printed denim. A plain white tee, tank top or
Mossimo Supply Co. Blue floral denim at Target.
floral; and in more subtle prints like small plaid or
silk blouse will go a long way in making the best out
Chantilly Laced Skinny in blush denim at Joesjeans.
even painted scenes. There is a pair for every taste
of this fun trend. For the perfect finale, add a pop of
com. Peach and White leopard print denim at Jo-
and every budget!
color with your shoes and bag and accessorize, ac-
esjeans.com. Beulah Style orange and fuchsia floral
cessorize, accessorize!
denim at Swindlers. Beulah Style orange and black
So how do you style this hot new trend and not look like a hot mess? Start by mixing your printed
denim at Swindlers.
September 2012 | THEZMAG.com 35
Museums/Exhibits ARIZONA HISTORICAL SOCIETY 48 Arizona Women continues through September. Reception Fri, Sept 21, 6:30pm.$5, adults; $4 seniors & students, 1218; free, children under 12 & first Saturday of the month. Mon-Sat, 10am-4pm. 949 E. 2nd St. 628-5774, ArizonaHistoricalSociety.org
ARIZONA-SONORA DESERT MUSEUM
Desert Encounters: Wildfire Artistry of Tell Hicks continues through Sun, Sept 9. Fiesta Sonora 2012 begins Sat, Sept 15 with an opening reception from 2pm-4pm. Regularly: Desert flora and fauna, animal presentations, Raptor Free Flights, more. $14.50, adults; $4.50, children 6-12. Daily, 7:30am-5pm. 2021 N. Kinney Rd. 883-1380, DesertMuseum.org
ARIZONA STATE MUSEUM Contemporary Talavera opens Thu, Sept 27. $5, children free. Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm. UA Campus, 1013 E. University Blvd. 6268381, StateMuseum.Arizona.edu
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM TUCSON
els in Theater Set Design opens Tue, Sept 18. Opening reception Thu, Sept 20 from 6pm-8pm. 1st Thursdays, open until 8pm. Tue-Sat, 9am-4pm. $7, adults ($5 Thu); $6, seniors/military; $5, 4-17. 4455 E. Camp Lowell. 881-0606, TheMiniTimeMachine.org
TOHONO CHUL PARK
Water continues through Sun, Nov 11. SAAA Children’s Artwork Exhibition opens Thu, Sept 6. Zoom In! A Photographic Exploration of Pollinators continues through Sat, Sept 1. Daily events: Reptile Ramble, Eco-Station Walks, more. See the website for other events. Daily, 8am-5pm. $7, 13+; $5, 62+ & military; $3 students; $2 children. 7366 N. Paseo del Norte. 742-6455, TohonoChulPark.org
TUCSON BOTANICAL GARDENS Flights of Fancy: Birds at Home in the Garden continues through September with a live demonstration on Sun, Sept 15. Bellos Adornos: A Photographic Exhibit Celebration Tucson’s Mexican- American Home and Garden Decorative Traditions begins Tue, Sept 18. Regular entry fees: $7, adults; $3, children 4-12. Daily, 8:30am-4:30pm (except holidays). 2150 N. Alvernon Way. 326-9686, TucsonBotanical.org
Photo courtesy of DraftHouse.com
Photo courtesy of GreaseMovie.com
Science Sundays takes place every Sunday through Sun, Sept 2. Hands-on science activities. $8, adults; $6, seniors & children 2-18. Tue-Fri, 9am-5pm; Sat-Sun, 10am-5pm. 200 S. 6th Ave. 792-9985, TucsonChildrensMuseum.org
MINI-TIME MACHINE MUSEUM No Small Parts: The Role of Scale Mod-
“Grease” screens at The Loft Cinema on Sat, Sept 8.
“Breakfast At Tiffany’s” screens at Cinema La Placita on Thu, Sept 27.
film listings Cinema La Placita La Placita Village, 110 S. Church Ave. Thursdays at 7:30pm, $3 suggested donation. CinemaLaPlacita.com Thu 6: No Time for Sergeants Thu 13: Casablanca Thu 20: Horse Feathers Thu 27: Breakfast at Tiffany’s The Loft Cinema 3233 E. Speedway Blvd. 795-7777, 322-LOFT, LoftCinema.com Times and admissions vary. Dates indicate first date of movie run. Mon 3: Damnation Alley Wed 5: The Best Man Thu 6: The Big Sleep Fri 7: First Friday Shorts, Sleepwalk
With Me, Farewell My Queen, For Your Height Only Sat 8: Bag It!, Grease Sing-A-Long Tue 11: General Education Wed 12: For The Benefit of All Beings: The Extraordinary Life of His Eminence Garchen Triptrul Rinpoche, The Candidate Thu 13: Out of the Past Fri 14: Hara Kiri: Death of a Samurai, Wild Horse Wild Ride, Shogun Assassin Sat 15: The Rocky Horror Picture Show, May I Be Frank, The Avenue Sun 16: The Passion of Joan of Arc Wed 19: All The President’s Men Thu 20: Shoot the Piano Player Fri 21: Shut Up and Play the Hits, Arbi-
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trage, Forbidden Zone, Samsara Sat 22: The Human Rights Watch Film Festival Sun 23: Vertigo Wed 26: Bob Roberts Thu 27: Touch of Evil Fri 28: Riki-Oh: The Story of Ricky Sun 30: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
Fox Theatre 17 W. Congress St. Admission is $6-$8. 624-1515, FoxTucsonTheatre.org Sun 9: Stand Up to Stop Violence Sat 22: The Iron Giant, Serenity, Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along-Blog
Pima County Public Libraries 594-5500, Library.Pima.Gov Sat 8: Half The Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide (Woods Memorial) Mon 10: Half The Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide (Himmel Park) The Screening Room 127 E. Congress St. 882-0204, AZMac. org/Scroom. See website. Voices of Opposition UA’s Aerospace & Mechanical Engineering Building, 1130 N. Mountain Ave. VoicesOfOpposition.com
photo: Randy Miramontez / Shutterstock.com
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Two-Steppin Tucson’s Musical Roots Tradition & Tejaño, Folk & Fest It’s the time of year when the charm and depth of Tucson’s musical diversity is most magically apparent. Clubs resonate with norteño accordions or fast picking fiddles. There are train whistles and steel drum, two-step rhythms of relaxed waila or frenetic cumbia, mariachi harmonies of violins and trumpets. Suffice to say that Tucson is home to one of the longest and most eclectic musical tables in the West. Some say that Tucson’s multicultural party is tied to a larger trend of incorporating traditional themes and instrumentation in indie music. For example, there’s Beirut, who worked with The Jimenez Band for March of the Zapotec. And of course there’s Calexico, with its tejaño-norteño influences. Perhaps Tucson is just part of this bigger picture. But so many believe that the way Tucson borrows on and interprets its multicultural roots for music is miles above the rest.
Traditionally Yours Tucson is a huge small market with a selfperpetuating cultural music scene that takes pride in what it is, looking to its roots for inspiration and new sounds, says Susan Holden, whose husband was one of the fathers of Tucson cultural music. Jonathan Holden, who died earlier this year, helped start KXCI community radio in 1970s and later founded Rhythm & Roots Concert Series in the mid 1990s. Susan and a team of volunteers continue “music as medicine,” the Rhythm & Roots mission. “Jona-
than would say that music was like an electrical current that moves seamlessly throughout the world,” she says. “What starts in the cultural bones of one place, like Tucson, adds its unique sounds to a global energy source that influences everything.” Tucson’s unique musical current takes its charge from sources that are inspired by our borderland culture, founded in local Native American social music and spiced up by American West alternative country. What is so musically alluring is how this city just mixes it all up. Pete Rodriquez, DJ and owner of Five Star Productions, sees how cultural music blends with Hip Hop and R&B as he travels around Southern Arizona for quinceañeras and other community events. “You can see that a lot of the music from O’odham and Yaqui groups is influenced by sounds from Sonora and Texas,” says Rodriquez, who also is Yaqui. “For example, Selena tunes often are remade into Chicken Scratch by Tohono O’odham bands, or rancheras are remade into Yaqui language songs,” he notes. Musical influences cross folklore and culture, melding international rhythm and instruments and modernizing sound with techno and pop. The bottom line is that everyone participates: kids to middle-aged or elder – it doesn’t matter. Tucson turns out to take in diversified music, with everyone dressed in their unique fabulousness to just have fun. DJ Rodiquez highlights cumbia as a popular style and tem-
by Monica Surfaro Spigelman
po which always packs the dance floors. “Ask a band to play “Mi Yaquicita” and watch the dance floors rock,” he says.
Two-Step Salute One regional social dance demonstrating a most widespread and diverse influence is waila. In this music also known as chicken scratch, Tohono O’odham traditions and people give life to an extraordinary range of local music. Waila’s altered variant of polka crosses genres in melodies passed on from generation to generation since the 19th century. Waila-style two-step is rooted in the music of German immigrants who came to Tucson to help build railroad. It blends imported continental European polka with Spanish-influenced norteño and other border sounds. In the old-style waila, bands only used fiddles and stringed instruments. Accordions and saxophones were added mid1900s. Contemporary bands now use more rocking amplified sound with electric guitar, bass and drums.
Rock the Root Around town, stand-out bands are rocking the local scene with their culturally-inspired popular music. Rodriquez, who knows the trends as a mobile DJ, points to Gertie and the T.O. Boys as a popular waila band. Gertie has performed at Tucson Meet Yourself, the Tucson Festival of Books and around Tucson. For tejaño lovers, there are other top per-
September 2012 | THEZMAG.com 37
formers who headline regularly at the local casinos and clubs like Blue Moon on South 4th. One, Los Gallegos, is a group of brothers who create borderland dance-floor energy. They have regularly have scheduled sets at the Desert Diamond Casino’s Monsoon Night Club. Their last studio album, titled “Viejas Canciones,” translates as “Old Songs,” (which is a tribute to the way many groups first learn their music, according to Rodriquez). Los Hermanos Quatro of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe is prominent in the Arizona Yaqui community, he continues. Another band playing music together in South Tucson for almost 14 years is La Nueva Onda. One more local favorite, according to Rhythm & Roots’ Holden, is Carnivaleros, a band “almost norteño in a white-guy kind of way,” she says. For about a decade this group has combined back-porch BBQ-style music with mariachi, polka, Tex-Mex as well as blues. Many of its songs spin stories of local folklore (like the song, “Black Cloud Over Oracle,” inspired by the 2010 sheriff-inspired uproar at the Glow Festival) and use traditional instrumentation like the kazoo and triangle.
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musical roots continued
Underneath all the local accents are themes related to the desert and the region’s environment. Guitarist Gabriel Ayala, the current Native American Awards “Artist of the Year” who’s also a member of the Yaqui Nation, knows that the desert and cultural roots help shape his compositions. Although he performs globally, Ayala lives and composes in Tucson, where song is an important expression in both Yaqui religious ceremony and social dance. Ayala often composes outside, say, in a monsoon, and allows his musical composition to come from the place where heart meets mind and nature. “When I compose I sing the melody first,” he explains. “The desert can inspire my work.” Dr. Jim Griffith, Southern Arizona’s cultural curator and founder of Tucson Meet Yourself, says the musical identity in our region is a richly complex picture, much of being played out at parties, processions and ceremonies. From Dr. Griffith’s book, Southern Arizona Folk Arts: “What is really going on is a kind of ethnic service left over from the days when the communities were much smaller and self contained, and when entertainment, when it happened, was usually provided by friends, neighbors or family members.” As musicians continue to use traditional elements that reaffirm a connection to roots, fans of local sounds have plenty to celebrate this fall. Leading the pack and pulling together the biggest and most unique assortment of all that’s ethnic is Tucson Meet Yourself, the free folk-life festival scheduled October 12-14. In addition, Tucsonans wanting to learn more about the history and the variety of waila styles should visit Himdag Ki:, the Tohono O’odham Nation’s Cultural Center and Museum located in Topawa, just south of Sells. The “Tohono Kaidalig: Tohono O’odham Piast Ñe’ñei” exhibit opens this month, featuring a rich selection of historical waila photos and multi-media. The exhibition is accompanied by a re-creation of old-time waila stage as well as instrument displays and recordings. There’s an opening reception on September 13 with traditional foods and live waila performances. The Cultural Center and Museum also will bring together local musicians in a waila series to be scheduled in conjunction with the exhibit, which will run for about six months. (See details on next page). If all this isn’t enough, there are small clubs around town (see list) featuring performers rooted in the city’s abundant cultural diversity. Tucson is still that collection of small communities which blends roots in many ways to create great music. In the end, it all means the same: Tucson’s traditions totally rock. Go out and enjoy them this season. n
38 THEZMAG.com | September 2012
Gabriel Ayala, Native American Artist of the Year
photo: courtesy of Gabriel Ayala.
Singing Sonora
tunes Z Local spots for borderland music,
15 heritage hot spots When and where to sample local music with traditional roots.
country and waila: Blue Moon Nightclub
1901 South 4th Avenue BlueMoontucson.com Monsoon Night Club
Sept 7 THE WIYOS Rhythm & Roots Concert Series Plaza Palomino 2970 North Swan RhythmAndRoots.org
Sept 13 Opening & Reception, Tohono Kaidalig: Tohono O’odham Piast Ñe’ñei (Waila Exhibit), “Tucson Fiddlers” - Clifford Juan, Himdag Ki: Cultural Center & Museum Topawa, AZ. 383.0200
Sept 15 Gabriel Ayala Monterey Court 505 West Miracle Mile MontereyCourtAz.com
Desert Diamond Casino 7350 S. Nogales Highway ddcaz.com
Sept 28-29 GLOW Triangle L Ranch Oracle, AZ, 623.6732 TriangleLRanch.com
Oct 12-14 Tucson Meet Yourself Downtown Tucson, Presidio Park to TCC TucsonMeetYourself.org
97th Annual Santa Cruz County Fair (karaoke, Cowboy Church) Sonoita, AZ. SonoitaFairgrounds.com
Sept 18 Pascua Yaqui Tribe Recognition Day Pascua Yaqui Tribe of Arizona, 7474 S Camino de Oeste. Pascuayaqui-nsn.gov
Sept 20-23 Tucson Greek Festival St. Demetrios Orthodox Church 1145 East Fort Lowell Road TucsonGreekFest.com 888.0505
Sept 22 Tejaño Showcase AVA Amphitheater 5655 West Valencia Rd CasinodelSol.com
Casino del Sol 5655 West Valencia Rd CasinoDelSol.com Performing Arts Showcases
Arizona Repertory Theatre Marketing.uatheatre.org 621.1162 Arizona Theatre Company
AzTheatreCo.org 622.2823 Beowulf Alley Theatre Company
Oct 12-13-14 Patagonia Fall Festival Patagonia, AZ PatagoniaFallFestival.com
Sept 29-30
Sept 14-16
Paradiso Bar & Lounge & other locales
30th Annual Harvesting of the Vine Elgin, AZ ElginWines.com
Sept 27-30 Octoberfest Hi Corbett Field TucsonOktoberfest.org
BeowulfAlley.org 622.4460 Borderlands Theater
BorderlandsTheater.org 882.7406 Broadway in Tucson
BroadwayInTucson.com 903.2929 Invisible Theatre
InvisibleTheatre.com 882.9721 The Rogue Theatre
TheRogueTheatre.org 551.2053 Arizona Friends of Chamber Music
Oct 20
ArizonaChamberMusic.org
Juan Bautista de Anza Days (Tubac) Tubac Presidio State Historic Park, TubacAz.com
Fox Tucson Theatre
FoxTucsonTheatre.org 547.3040 Rhythm and Roots
Oct 21 The Blues and Heritage Festival 2012 Reid Park’s DeMeester Bandshell AzBlues.org
RhythmAndRoots.org 319.9966 Tucson Symphony Orchestra
TucsonSymphony.org 882.8585
Oct 26-28
UApresents
13th Annual Tucson Desert Bluegrass Festival AVA Amphitheater DesertBluegrass.org
Ballet Tucson
UApresents.org 621.3341 BalletTucson.org 903.1445
September 2012 | THEZMAG.com 39
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PREVIEW: Rhythm and Roots Plaza Palomino Concert Series INCENDIO Saturday, Oct. 27: Plaza Palomino, 2970 N Swan, 8pm.
Saturday, Sept 29: Plaza Palomino, 2970 N Swan, 8pm
Jean-Pierre Durand
JOHN GORKA
INCENDIO means “fire” in both Spanish and Italian, and this moniker is fitting for a musical group whose sound is all about energy, exploration, and passion. At the heart of INCENDIO’s sound is the Latin or Spanish guitar which can conjure up romantic as well as powerful and bold images – they refer to their style as “Latin Guitar World Fusion.” More info at Incendioband.com
photo: Fionn Reilly
Rising from a milieu of lovelorn singer-songwriters, John Gorka’s much praised original songs are known for their trademark wordplay, twisting, turning and tying words and phrases in the way a balloon artist creates complex creatures from simple balloons. Few contemporary songwriters coax language as deftly as Gorka. More info at JohnGorka.com
Rod Piazza and The Mighty Flyers Friday, Sept 28: Plaza Palomino, 2970 N Swan, 8pm. From his first recordings as a leader in 1967 fronting The Dirty Blues Band, through his multiple W.C. Handy award winning releases with The Mighty Flyers, to his countless appearances live and on record with some of the most revered names in the blues, Piazza long ago established himself as one of the most influential living blues harp players. He’s consistently surrounded himself with world-class players who epitomize the very best in modern blues: players who are fresh, swinging, tasteful, exciting and creative. The core of The Mighty Flyers has been together for over two decades, and developed the kind of musical chemistry that can’t exist without years of experience on the bandstand and in the studio. More info at TheMightyFlyers.com
THE WIYOS Friday, Sept 7: Plaza Palomino, 2970 N Swan, 8pm. Rising stars in the forward-looking branch of the old-timey Americana scene, The Wiyos have a highly advanced skill set and big-picture musical ambitions that puts them at the front of their class. Over five CDs and countless tours, The Wiyos have matured into one of the most original and sophisticated roots acts on the circuit today. More info at TheWiyos.com
More information on these and other Rhythm & Roots shows at RhythmAndRoots.org or 520-319-9966. 40 THEZMAG.com | September 2012
September 2012 | THEZMAG.com 41
LIVE MUSIC AVA AMPHITHEATER at Casino Del Sol 5655 W. Valencia Rd. CasinoDelSol.com Sat 1: Working Man’s Jam Wed 5: Crosby, Still and Nash Fri 7: Neal McCoy Sat 8: Ramon Ayala Wed 12: Def Leppard & Poison Fri 14: Alejandro Fernandez Sat 15: Jeff Dunham Fri 21: Marco Antonio Solis Sat 22: Tejano Showcase Wed 26: Brit Floyd Fri 28: War & Average White Band
BOONDOCKS LOUNGE 3306 N. 1st Ave. 690-0991, BoondocksLounge.com Mondays: The Bryan Dean Trio Thursdays: Titan Valley Warheads Fridays: Live Music with Neon Prophet Sat 1: Tony and The Torpedoes Sun 16: Last Call Girls
CLUB CONGRESS 311 E. Congress St. 622-8848, HotelCongress.com/club Sat 1: Hoco Fest Day Two: Free Record Fair and Music Gear Expo and Orkesta CD Release Party. Sun 2: Hoco Fest Day Three: Dusty Chaps, Dreadnutts featuring Bob Meighan, Chuck Wagon and the Wheels, and Ned Sutton Mon 3: Hoco Fest Day Four: Turquoise Jeep
“X-Train” performs on Sat, Sept 8 as part of LAVA at Abounding Grace Sanctuary.
Tue 4: Two Gallants w/ Papa Wed 5: Freddie Mercury Fri 7: It’s a Beautiful Day, Warsaw Poland Bros Sat 8: Holy Rolling Empire w/ Of the Painted Choir + La Cerca Wed 12: Dam Funk w/ Zackey Force Funk Thu 13: Hume Fri 14: B-Side Players Sat 15: Nintendo Party w/ the Minibosses Sun 16: Moonface w/ Foxygen Mon 17: MyTown Music Showcase Tue 18: External Summers w/ Bleeding Rainbow Fri 28: Mission Creeps CD Release Party Sat 29: Photo Reception for Dominic Bonucelli’s Underworld Vampyres w/ Mission Creeps
CUSHING STREET BAR & RESTAURANT 198 W. Cushing St. 622-7984, CushingStreet.com Fridays: Cass Preston Saturdays: Jeff Lewis & Friends
DELECTABLES RESTAURANT & CATERING 533 N. 4th Ave. 884-9289, Delectables.com Sat 1: Tommy Tucker Sat 15: Tommy Tucker Sat 29: Tommy Tucker
FOX TUCSON THEATRE 17 W. Congress St. 624-1515, FoxTucsonTheatre.org Sun 30: Mary Chapin Carpenter
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Photo courtesy of Tommy Tucker.
“Neal McCoy” performs at AVA Ampitheater on Fri, Sept 7.
Photo courtesy of LAVA.
Photo courtesy of ConcertBoom.com
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“Tommy Tucker” performs at Delectables on Sat, Sept 1, 15 & 29.
HACIENDA DEL SOL
PLUSH
5501 N. Hacienda del Sol Rd. 299-1501, HaciendadelSol.com
340 E. 6th St. 798-1298, PlushTucson.com Sat 1: The World Record, Lunar Light Collectors, Steff Koeppen Mon 3: Tycho, The Album Leaf Thu 6: Chris McFarland Fri 7: The Silver Head Trio, Run Boy Run, Melody Walker and Jacob Groopman Thu 13: Annon and TLS Sat 15: Pokey LaFarge and the South City Three, Tom Walbank & The Ambassadors Thu 20: Zac Harmon Wed 26: Spiders Can Fly Sat 29: Some of Them Are Old, Blind Devine, Hairsprayfireandgirls
THE HUT 305 N. 4th Ave. 623-3200, HutTucson.com Sat 1: Jet West, Black Bottom Lighters Wed 5: Ape Machine W/Am.Are.Is Sat 8: Sammus Theory W/ Cage 9 Thu 13: I Was Totally Destroying It Fri 14: Coins Of Catalina Sat 15: Armastus W/ Gaza Strip Wed 19: Dawns Thu 20: Honey Henney Lime Fri 21: Dubfest Day One Sat 22: Dubfest Day Two Fri 28: Crash Street Kids Sat 29: Haley Jane W/ Black Cat Bones
LIVE ACOUSTIC VENUE ASSOCIATION (LAVA) Abounding Grace Sanctuary, 2450 S. Kolb. 647-3234, LavaMusic.org Sat 8: X- Train Sat 15: Tracy Newman and the Reinforcements Sat 22: Wyatt Easterling Sat 29: Chuck Pyle
MONTEREY COURT 505 W. Miracle Mile. 207-2429, MontereyCourtAz.com Thu: Jazz Fri 14: Determine Luddites Sat 15: Gabriel Ayala Fri 21-Sun 23: Monterey Court Jazz Festival Sat 29: Railbirdz
RHYTHM & ROOTS Plaza Palamino, 2970 N. Swan 319-9966, RhythmandRoots.org Fri 7: The Wiyos Fri 14: Diunna Greenleaf and Blue Mercy with Bob Corritore Fri 28: Rod Piazza and the Mighty Flyers Sat 29: John Gorka
RIALTO THEATRE 318 E. Congress St. 740-1000, RialtoTheatre.com Fri 14: Adam Carolla Tue 18: Tab Benoit Wed 19: Wilco, The Used Sat 22: 2 Chainz Mon 24: Beach House Wed 26: Sean Paul Thu 27: The Lumineers
Photo courtesy of HotelCongress.com
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KXCI’s 5
Tucson’s community radio station, at 91.3FM and KXCI.org, spins tracks from the following new albums in September.
Cat Power, Sun (Matador) Chan Marshall’s first album of original material in six years shows a deeper, darker approach in her songwriting, including an epic song about bullying with guest Iggy Pop. “Hume” performs on Thu, Sept 13 at Hotel Congress.
Bob Dylan, Tempest (Columbia) Dylan’s 35th studio release is another foray into the blues music that has informed much of his songwriting over the years.
SKY BAR
Z MANSION
536 N. 4th Ave. 622-4300, SkyBarTucson.com Mondays: Team Trivia Tuesdays: Jazz Wednesdays: Open Mic Thursdays: Live Music Thu 20: Birds and Beers
288 N. Church Ave. 623-4889, ZMansion.com
The Avett Brothers, The Carpenter (Universal)
other venues:
The indie-folk rockers are the latest to get producer Rick Rubin’s treatment, which takes musicians outside their comfort zone to explore new turf – this time, a heavier rock-inspired set of tunes.
SOLAR CULTURE
7053 N. Oracle Rd. 531-8500, BluefinTucson.com Sundays: George Howard Duo
31 E. Toole Ave. 884-0874, SolarCulture.org Tue 4: Artphag Fri 7: Black Cherry Burlesque Sat 8: Fineline Revisited Fri 14: Casa Libre Benefit Sat 15: Steampunk Party Fri 21: Disgustingtons, Bricktop, Industry
SURLY WENCH PUB 424 N. 4th Ave., 882-0009, SurlyWenchPub.com Mondays: Black Mondays with Matt McCoy and weekly guest Thursdays: Jump-Jive Thursday with DJ Ribz Fri 6: Black Cherry Burlesque Sat 7: Last Call Brawlers Fri 13: Anakim, Territory Sat 14: Fineline Revisited Tue 24: City of VAin, Hooligan, Bricktop Fri 28: Artists for Autism Sat 29: Fineline Revisited
VAUDEVILLE 110 E. Congress St. 6223535, MySpace.com/ vaudevilledowntowntucson
BLUEFIN
CASA VICENTE
375 S. Stone Ave. 884-5253, CasaVicente.com Tuesdays: Live Classical GuitarWednesdays: Live Guitar Thursdays: Classical Guitar Friday and Saturdays: Flamenco Guitar and Performances
Band of Horses, Mirage Rock (Columbia) Another legendary producer, Glyn Johns, here helps another KXCI favorite flesh out their intentions, this time on a set sure to draw comparisons to classic CSNY.
Tom Tom Club, Downtown Rockers (Nacional) Their first new release in more than a decade finds them still at the top of their game in terms of the fusion of funk, reggae, and hip hop that they helped pioneer.
CHE’S LOUNGE 350 N. 4th Ave. 623-2088, ChesLounge.com
KINGFISHER 2564 E. Grant Rd. 323-7739, KingFisherTucson.com
LUNA BELLA 2970 N. Swan Rd. LunaBellaRestaurant.com
MONTEREY COURT 505 W. Miracle Mile, MontereyCourtAZ.com
NIMBUS BREWERY 3850 E. 44th St. 745-9175 & 6464 E. Tanque Verde Rd. 733-1111, NimbusBeer.com
September 2012 | THEZMAG.com 43
Summer photos submitted by our readers.
Gabrielle Pietrangelo, Golden Gate Bridge
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Susan J. Gorbett, Marana Chad Goebel, Chobe Park, Botswana Kyle Schipfer, Amsterdam
Frank Gonzales, Topsail Island, NC Heather Akins, Crystal Cove
Laura Adams, Sorrento, Italy Alec Laughlin, San Carlos, Mexico w/Titus Castanza Darci Hazelbaker, Jamaica
Grant Getz, Flathead Lake, Montana
44 THEZMAG.com | September 2012
Sheila Storm, St Peters Basilica, Rome-Italy
Heather Akins, Crystal Cove
Summer photos submitted by our readers.
lookback Z
Kimi Eisele, Tucson
Found Puzzles by misterpaulfisher
Jo Rom, Yellowstone Park
The first puzzle is a pesky REBUS: an enigmatic representation of a name, word, phrase or idea, by pictures, words, prepositions, groupings, comparisons, puns and contrasts. By analyzing what you see/read you need to reform/regroup and find a new way of expressing it. For example: stand? Do you
Kristin Tovar, Honeymoon in Italy
Insert the preposition “under” instead of the placement of “Do you.” So the statement becomes: “Do you understand?” Try this one:
PUZZLE #1
Kristin Tovar, Tucson
hear/their Gabrielle Pietrangelo, Canyon de Chelly
(CLUE: using homonyms change this into a common four word phrase.)
Susan Denis, Fiesta Island, San Diego
PUZZLE #2 What are the next three numbers in this sequence: 2, 4, 6, 9, 11, 15, 20, 40, 51, 55, 60, …. (CLUE: this is not a sequence pattern, such as 2, 4, 6, … what is the next number? The numbers need to be “seen” in a different context.)
ANSWERS to puzzles 1 and 2 are available at www.ZocaloMagazine.com/puzzles Susan J. Gorbett, Oro Valley
Kimi Eisele, Ocean Beach, San Diego
misterpaulfisher is a consultant-teacherlecturer-artist who has been puzzling for many decades. Find out more about Paul, his work and puzzles at: www.misterpaulfisher.com
September 2012 | THEZMAG.com 45
Z escape photos: Emily Gindlesparger
Guide Brian Pittaway takes visitors on a tour through Colossal Cave.
Historic Shelter Just inside the entrance to Colossal Cave, we step onto the flagstone floor built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. It’s cool even with the desert heat outside: a temperate 70 degrees year-round, and dry. Unlike most caves that are formed by groundwater seeps, this one was formed by hydrothermal processes: volcanic activity that sent hot sulfuric water into the limestone, dissolving it into big sweeping caverns decorated with curtains and draperies called flowstone. The gaping mouth of Colossal Cave lets in enough light that the Hohokam Indians at times used it for shelter and ritual, coming into this first room where they could still see by daylight alone. Dozens of artifacts—painted prayer sticks, miniature ritual bows, pottery—were found where we’re standing. This is one of the primary reasons to visit Colossal Cave: that aside from its natural beauty, it’s filled with history. Called Five-Mile Cave in the 1880s, it became a safe house for bandits stealing bank notes from the rail cars on the nearby Southern Pacific Line. The legend of these thefts varies, but always includes the robbers hoodwinking sheriff posses by escaping via a back route to a separate entrance a half mile away. Today you can scramble through the “Bandits’ Escape” on a prearranged “Wild Cave Tour” at Colossal Cave Mountain Park, climbing through two long miles of unimproved passageways, squeezing through tight spaces and seeing the most decorated and least visited sections of the cave. We stick to the main passageways, which the CCC improved painstakingly by hand, paving the boulder-strewn floor and installing stairways and handrails by the light of carbide headlamps. There’s one on display in the
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Explore the natural and cultural history at Colossal Cave by Emily Gindlesparger cavern, an acetylene torch strapped to the front of a canvas and leather cap. Soft yellow lights reveal the cave’s formations: fountains made of rock, dripping stalactites and curtains made from stone so thin you can shine a light through them. While I usually love the thrill of discovering a cave one turn at a time by headlamp, the lights in Colossal Cave show the depth of the cave’s galleries and give you a sense of its size. During a “Candlelight Tour” the lights are turned off, allowing visitors to discover the cave as its earlier explorers did, though without tripping over the original rocky floor. Outside, the Rincons surround the cave entrance and visitor’s center with a view to the desert valley below, where La Posta Quemada Ranch houses gardens, stables, picnic areas, campsites, and a museum and library. Horseback rides from the ranch follow the National Mail Stagecoach Route past towering rock walls and lush Sonoran desert. Whatever your activity, Colossal Cave Mountain Park is a place where natural and cultural history are woven together, and modern Tucsonans can follow in the footsteps of others, finding shelter from the heat. Colossal Cave Mountain Park is located at 16721 E. Old Spanish Trail, Vail AZ, 647-7275, ColossalCave.com Open 9am to 5pm (opens at 8am until September 15th). Daily Use Park Fee: $5 per car. Regular Cave Tour: $13, no reservation required. More tour options offered by request.n
lifeintucson Z by Andrew Brown
Left to right, top to bottom: Sarah Patterson at Future Primative fashion show; Jonathan Richman at La Cocina; Tucson John at the new Desert Vintage, opening night; Sleep Like Trees at Future Primative art opening; Tucson’s 237th Birthday Celebration; Salima Boufelfel and Roberto Cowan, new owners of Desert Vintage, opening night; Jay Zimmermann, Tyler Fenton and Andrew Scott of REILLY Craft Pizza & Drink Downtown.
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