Author Archive: Zocalo Staff

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March Poetry

March 17, 2015 |

After His Twelve-Hour Day by Bruce Cohen

 

After His Twelve

 

cohen_sm“I met my lovely wife in Tucson over thirty years ago at the University of Arizona and embraced poetry there as well with my amazing teachers: Steve Orlen & Jon Anderson.  My new manuscript, Imminent Disappearances, Impossible Numbers & Panoramic X-Rays, was awarded the 2015 Green Rose Prize from New Issues Press and will be published in 2016.” – Bruce Cohen


 

Zócalo invites poets with Tucson connections to submit up to three original, previously unpublished (including online) poems, any style, 40 line limit per poem.  Our only criterion is excellence. No online submissions.  Simultaneous submissions ok if you notify ASAP of acceptance elsewhere. Please include the following contact information on each page of your manuscript: mailing address, phone number, and email address. All manuscripts must be typed and accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope (SASE). Ms won’t be returned. Zócalo has first North American rights; author may re-publish with acknowledgment to Zócalo.  Payment is a one year subscription. Address submissions to Zócalo, Poetry, P.O. Box 1171, Tucson, AZ 85702.  The poetry editor is Jefferson Carter.

 

 

January 2015 Poetry

January 5, 2015 |

January 2015 Poetry

December Poetry

December 2, 2014 |

Bus Graveyard

Still you can see the blue under the nose
below Dia de los Muertos eye cavities,
glassy shine long splintered, littering
the dressing room to the afterlife
like the left-behind glitter
of a Bollywood star.

Though piled as if in a mass grave
the huddled shells seem content to lie close
to those alongside whom they served,
blaring and jostling along the same potholed roads,
enduring the same smears
of left-behind bubble-gum,
the indelicacies spewed
when the ride was rough.

Stripped now of muscle, stripped
of the power and strain of constant movement
they are still, left
to rust in peace.

—Farzana Marie

 

After the photograph by M. Reinhardt, titled “Rust in Peace.” (found at www.panoramio.com/photo/11596653)

Farzana Marie

Farzana Marie

Farzana Marie is a poet, UA doctoral candidate (Persian Lit/Creative Writing), and the President of Civil Vision International (www.civilvision.org). She is author of the nonfiction book, Hearts for Sale! A Buyer’s Guide to Winning in Afghanistan (Worldwide Writings, 2013) and a poetry chapbook, Letters to War and Lethe (Finishing Line Press, 2014). She moved to Tucson in 2008 for a military assignment and remains intoxicated by the post-monsoon scent of creosote.  On December 10 at 7:30, Farzana, along with  Javetta Laster and Anton Smith, will be reading her poems at Casa Libre en la Solana on 4th Avenue. 

Zocalo invites poets with Tucson connections to submit up to three original, previously unpublished (including online) poems, any style, 40 line limit per poem.  Our only criterion is excellence. No online submissions.  Simultaneous submissions ok if you notify ASAP of acceptance elsewhere. Please include the following contact information on each page of your manuscript: mailing address, phone number, and email address. All manuscripts must be typed and accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope (SASE). Ms won’t be returned. Zocalo has first North American rights; author may re-publish with acknowledgment to Zocalo.  Payment is a one year subscription. Address submissions to Zocalo, Poetry, P.O. Box 1171, Tucson, AZ 85702.  The poetry editor is Jefferson Carter.

 

 

A Conversation with Derrick Widmark

November 20, 2014 |
Derrick Widmark at Good Oak a few days before opening in 2013. Photo by Blake Collins.

Derrick Widmark at Good Oak a few days before opening in 2013. Photo by Blake Collins.

Table Settings

Derrick Widmark is the owner of Diablo Burger, a popular Flagstaff restaurant he opened in 2009. Last year, Widmark expanded his operation to Tucson, opening two businesses on Congress Street – Diablo Burger Tucson and Good Oak Bar, both specializing in Arizona sourced food and drink. We asked Widmark a few questions about his relationship with food. He had this to say…

On opening diablo burger

I was working for the Diablo Trust, a ranching-based collaborative conservation group, and became intrigued with the connection between local food and local conservation. Beef is the largest cash crop in Arizona, and yet we send almost all of our beef into the national market. Then we buy beef back from the national market to feed ourselves here — often at higher prices and lower quality. That makes no sense — although of course I understand that is how a commodity market with economies of scale functions — and I became and remain interested in the myriad benefits of connecting local supply to local demand.

On What He Loves to Cook

Risotto is my go-to, and I love Italian food across the board. Simple pasta dishes, the beauty of cooking with a few distinct ingredients… add a straight-up salad, some real bread, a bottle of red and I’m the happiest of campers. Unlike many food lovers, I’m not a great fan of cook books, but Jamie Oliver’s “Jamie’s Italy” is one they’ll have to pry from cold, dead hands one day. Hey, that could be a bumper sticker!

On The Flavors He Loves

Sweet, savory, whatever… the food experience that I’m drawn to has a name, and it’s called “delicious.” And I’ve found that the ingredients that deliver that experience are pretty consistent: authenticity, simplicity, and the intention and practice of sourcing quality products.

 On Foods He Craves

I was always willing to go far out of my way to eat simple, authentic, traditional fare. When I lived in New York City I would often drive an hour north to Tarrytown to eat at a little Cuban lunch counter by the Tappan Zee Bridge because it was the real deal, superior to any Cuban food I’ve had in Miami or anywhere else. Now that I’m driving back and forth between Tucson and Flagstaff all the time I find myself stopping at Chris Bianco’s Italian Restaurant in Phoenix for similar reasons. The simplicity and the purity of intention of serving very traditional dishes with carefully sourced products… man, that “restores” me every time.

I’ve been lucky enough to spend time in India and to have been introduced to Indian versions of that kind of authentic, traditional experience, and so I’m always on the lookout for great Indian food. Paul Moir (Proper Tucson) and I have had the Biryani at Sher-e-Punjab so many times, the guy there just gives us a nod and brings out “the usual.” And this new Indian market on Stone, Yogi, which serves Indian street foods like bhel poori and samosa chaat, is very exciting. There’s a place like that in Berkeley, Vik’s Chaat Corner, that draws people from miles around (and that I will find my way to if I’m anywhere close to the Bay Area) in the same kind of market/lunch counter setting, so I have very high hopes for that place.

 On His Food Philosophy

I’ve been fortunate to travel a fair bit, and once I discovered “taste of place” – the experience of having something that is specific and distinct to that particular corner of the world – well… it’s hard to go back to mass-produced, uniform, same-here-as-it-is-everywhere food.  And the thing about “taste of place” is that it doesn’t have to be expensive or exclusive, as the great taco places of South Tucson prove day in and day out.

My intention, with Diablo Burger and Good Oak Bar, is to deliver  “taste of place” here in Tucson, in much the same way that I seek out when I travel. Whether in a burger, a glass of wine, or even in the local ketchup we are serving now, for someone to taste these products that are specific and distinct to our food-shed, right here in Arizona… I believe that creates connection, and community, and a greater appreciation for the farmers and ranchers and other producers right here in our little corner of the world, who contribute in truly immeasurable and irreplaceable ways to our quality of life — and who help us deliver “delicious,” I hope, one meal and one visitor at a time.

Tucson Spanish Flamenco Festival

September 13, 2014 |

Tue, Sept. 23-Sun, Sept. 28

Melissa Cruz, a Bay Area-based flamenco professional. Photo courtesy Tucson Flamenco Festival

Melissa Cruz, a Bay Area-based flamenco professional, performs at the Flamenco Festival.
Photo courtesy TSFF

A unique opportunity to experience flamenco and Spanish culture in a traditional late-night, outdoor festival atmosphere in Downtown Tucson!

With six nights of performances, including the 2nd Annual Guitar Competition – a tribute to the late Paco de Lucia – and musicians and dancers from around the globe, this year’s event promises to delight audiences of all ages.

See the website for information on the performers, the schedule and details on the workshops and classes.
$20-$45. Thu-Sat, 8 p.m.-11 p.m.; Sun, 2:30 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.

Casa Vicente, 375 S. Stone Ave.
(520) 884-5253
TucsonSpanishFlamencoFestival.com

La Musique | TYP Annual Fashion Show

September 4, 2014 |
Model Kenze Waxlax wearing a design by INDI Apparel at a previous TYP fashion show. Photo: Neil Peters

Model Kenze Waxlax wearing a design by INDI Apparel at a previous TYP fashion show.
Photo: Neil Peters

Tucson Young Professionals present its 7th annual fashion show on Friday, Sept. 19 with a runway show featuring styles inspired by some of the most influential musical genres. Fashion show producer and Tucson Fashion Group founder Yekatherina Bruner presents a diverse ensemble of local designers, fashion stylists, boutiques and brands including: Phillip Manus, Buffalo Exchange, Crown The Shop AKA Cry Baby Couture, Francesca’s, Leyda Herring, Swindlers, Grand Central Clothing, and Banana Republic.

Friday, Sept. 19
Fox Theatre, 17 W. Congress St.
6:30 p.m.: VIP Doors Open
7-8 p.m.: VIP Reception
7:30 p.m.: Admission Doors General Open
8:30–10 p.m.: Fashion Show
10 p.m.: First Fridays After-Party at Playground

$40 general admission/$65 VIP reception. Purchase online at TYPfashion.eventbrite.com.
Other details are at TucsonYoungProfessionals.com/tucson-fashion-show/.

Performing Arts Season Spotlights 2014-2015

September 2, 2014 |

Tucson’s theatre scene is the opposite of bland. Eclectic, exciting, lively, raucous, serious, hilarious, heartbreaking, sweet, sensual, over-to-top, and down-to-earth, the blend is more wide-ranging and diverse than the current line-up of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream flavors. The variety speaks to the amazing amount of creative energy in the Old Pueblo, with performance companies that cater to both affluent patrons and audience members on a budget. The breadth truly is remarkable, so buy some tickets and embrace your town’s artistic, dramatic flair this year!

Sit back, relax, peruse Zócalo’s season snapshots and start booking some dates. We hope to see you at the show!

– Jamie Manser

The Rogue company of actors reprising some of their favorite roles. Photo: Tim Fuller

The Rogue company of actors reprising some of their favorite roles.
Photo: Tim Fuller

Stage/Theatrical

Arizona Onstage Productions
Coming off of its highly-lauded rendition of Les Misérables, which ran Aug. 9-17, the company dedicated to musical theatre has three productions scheduled for this season. Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings offers Christmas standards that have all been “Plaid-erized.” The boys are back to do their Christmas Special. At first Francis, Jinx, Smudge and Sparky don’t know why they’ve returned to Earth for another posthumous performance, but the heavenly Rosemary Clooney lets them know that they’re needed to put some harmony into a discordant world. Shows are Dec. 5-20. Come Feb. 8-9, AOP presents Broadway Musicals, A Jewish Legacy. Based on the PBS Documentary, this show examines the unique role of Jewish composers and lyricists in the creation of the modern American musical and features the work of Irving Berlin, Jerome Kern, George and Ira Gershwin, Lorenz Hart, Richard Rodgers, Oscar Hammerstein II, Leonard Bernstein, and Stephen Sondheim. AOP closes its season with And the World Goes ‘Round March 20-April 5, a musical revue showcasing the songs of John Kander and Fred Ebb. The revue takes its title from a tune the songwriting team wrote for Liza Minnelli to sing in the film New York, New York. The show consists of an eclectic collection of love songs, torch songs, and acerbically witty comic numbers. All performances are at the Temple of Music and Art’s Cabaret Space, 330 S. Scott Ave. See ArizonaOnstage.org for details and tickets.
Zόcalo

Arizona Opera
Our fine state’s opera company is again delivering an impressive season of performances for audiences in both Phoenix and Tucson. With six operas spread out over the 2014-2015 season and a mixture of classics and lesser-performed works to choose from, this season is quite exciting. Most anticipated in many circles are two classic works: Verdi’s Rigoletto, (Nov. 22/23) a dark tale set in 16th century Italy featuring a court jester with revenge on his mind, and the Mozart classic The Magic Flute (March 7/8) which features some of the composers most famous music and wonderful sets and is always a crowd favorite. However, it is the company’s first performance of the year that is of historic significance. Cruzar la Cara de la Luna is the world’s first mariachi opera to hit the stage, with only two Tucson performances (Oct. 18/19). Featuring Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlan, the story “revolves around a modern immigrant family struggling with issues of home, family and identity.” Visit AZOpera.org for more information and tickets or ring (520) 293-4336. All shows take place at the Tucson Music Hall, 260 S. Church Ave. – Herb Stratford

Arizona Rose Theatre Company
The home-grown, family-run company lists three productions on its website for the 2014-15 season, including: Robin Hood – The Musical (Oct. 10-12); Crazy For You (Feb. 20-22) and Steel Magnolias (April 18-19). The first two shows are at the Berger Performing Arts Center, 1200 W. Speedway Blvd., and the last performance is at Temple of Music and Art’s Cabaret Space, 330 S. Scott Ave. Visit ArizonaRose.cc or call (520) 888-0509 for updated information. – Zόcalo

Ian Lowe and Joe Kinosian in Arizona Theatre Company’s "Murder for Two."  Photo: Joan Marcus

Ian Lowe and Joe Kinosian in Arizona Theatre Company’s “Murder for Two.”
Photo: Joan Marcus

Arizona Theatre Company
Tragedy, love and art appear to be the central themes of the 2014-2015 season at the Arizona Theatre Company. With thrillers like Wait Until Dark (Oct. 18–Nov. 8) and tragedies like Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet (Feb. 28–March 21) on tap we’ll like need the respite of the madcap comedy Murder for Two (Nov. 29–Dec. 20) to lighten the mood with its 13 characters played by just two actors. Another season highlight is the world premiere of Five Presidents (Jan. 10–Jan. 31) that imagines the scene when five past presidents are all gathered in a room prior to Richard Nixon’s funeral. Productions take place in both Phoenix and Tucson. The local digs for ATC are at Temple of Music and Art, 330 S. Scott Ave. More details and tickets available by calling (520) 622-2823 or online at ArizonaTheatre.org. – Herb Stratford

Borderlands Theater
Celebrating its 29th season, Borderlands was formed as an official non-profit in 1986 and its “mission from the start was to present the diverse voices of the U.S./Mexico Border region.” Continuing with that goal, the company brings to the stage three plays for 2014-2015, two of which are world premieres. They Call Me a Hero, by Guillermo Reyes, starts the season and is based on Daniel Hernandez’s memoir of the same title. Hernandez, credited with saving the life of Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords during a 2011 shooting spree, was thrown into a whirlwind of publicity after he became a national hero. Reyes examines how, “as his private life becomes public, Daniel’s family and upbringing in South Tucson provide the backbone that empowers him.” The show runs Sept. 25-Oct. 5. Absence/El Ausente is a drama about three generations of a Mexico City family who endure the absence of a son, husband, and father who have left for the United States in search of work. As the family’s situation deteriorates, a sighting of their absent loved one catapults the play to its surprising ending. Performances alternate between English and Spanish, Feb. 12-March 1. Closing the season April 9-19 is the world premiere of River City by Diana Grisanti. Shaken by her father’s death, Mary sets off to uncover three generations’ worth of secrets buried in the West End of Louisville, Kentucky. All performances are at ZUZI’s Theatre, 738 N. 5th Ave. Call the box office at (520) 882-7406 for tickets or go to BorderlandsTheater.org for more details. – Zόcalo

Hilary Maiberger as "Belle" and Darick Pead as "Beast" in Disney's "Beauty and the Beast," presented by Broadway in Tucson Dec. 12-14.  Photo: Amy Boyle

Hilary Maiberger as “Belle” and Darick Pead as “Beast” in Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast,” presented by Broadway in Tucson Dec. 12-14. Photo: Amy Boyle

Broadway In Tucson
Since relocating from the Tucson Convention Center’s Music Hall to UA’s Centennial Hall, 1020 E. University Blvd., Broadway in Tucson continues to present world class Broadway productions for the Tucson market. This season again features a mixture of revivals; Guys and Dolls (Feb. 24–March 1), Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Jan. 7-11), and hot current Great White Way favorites like Once (March 31-April 5) and Flashdance (Nov. 4-9). But perhaps the most anticipated show may be Beauty and the Beast, on stage Dec. 12-14. Further information and tickets are online at BroadwayInTucson.com or call (520) 903-2929. – Herb Stratford

The Community Players
Previously located at the Red Barn Theatre on Main Street south of Speedway Boulevard, as of this past summer The Community Players have a new location and a new name. The group strives to provide affordable, quality plays, musicals and revues for the community, by the community. This season brings several productions: 6 Rms Riv Vu (Sept. 12-28), Gypsy (Oct. 31-Nov. 23), A Community Christmas: A Holiday Revue (Dec. 12-21), Guys On Ice (Jan. 9-25), Duets Revue (Feb. 13-22), The Complete History of America (abridged/March 6-22), and Rumors (May 8-24). The new location is at 1881 N. Oracle Rd. Get more details by calling (520) 887-6239 or visiting CommunityPlayersTucson.org. – Zόcalo

Gaslight Theatre
This is, without a doubt, Tucson’s home for melodrama and old-fashioned theatre hi-jinks. The 2014-2015 season features a few not-to-miss shows like Cronan The Barbarian from Sept. 4–Nov. 9 and The Secret Santa from Nov. 13–Jan. 4. The Gaslight’s interactive theatre experience is a real family treat with excellent writing, acting and performances; their innovative stage design is not to be missed. It also hosts concerts throughout the year, so keep an eye on their website for those. This is one Tucson institution that never gets old, book tickets for the Christmas show months ahead or be left out in the cold. The theatre is located at 7010 E. Broadway Blvd., by phone at (520) 886-9428 and online via TheGaslightTheatre.com. – Herb Stratford

Invisible Theatre presents award winning pianist and storyteller Richard Glazier in "Broadway to Hollywood" on Dec. 7 at the Berger Performing Arts Center. Photo courtesy Invisible Theatre

Invisible Theatre presents award winning pianist and storyteller Richard Glazier in “Broadway to Hollywood” on Dec. 7 at the Berger Performing Arts Center.
Photo courtesy Invisible Theatre

Invisible Theatre
This Tucson institution is celebrating its 44th season with a slate of six different shows and two special events. IT’s unique mixture of comedy, mystery, drama and unique storytelling is unmatched by any other theatre company on local stages. Highlights this year include four Southwest premieres and two Tucson premieres as IT presents tales of family guilt (Cannoli, Latkes and Guilt), murder mystery (Sheer Madness) and family comedy (A Kid Like Jake). Performances take place at with the Berger Performing Arts Center, 1200 W. Speedway Blvd., or at IT’s stage, 1400 N. 1st Ave. Visit InvisibleTheatre.com or dial (520) 882-9721 for details. – Herb Stratford

Live Theatre Workshop
For two decades, LTW has worked to provide “performance and education to entertain, enlighten and uplift our community and to develop theatrical talent.” It maintains a year-round schedule, with the 2014-2015 starting this past June and running through June 2015. Mainstage productions include: The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged and revised, Sept. 4-Oct. 6), 9 Parts of Desire (Oct. 16-Nov. 15), The Game’s Afoot, or Holmes for the Holidays (Nov. 20-Dec. 28), The Savannah Disputation (Jan. 8-Feb. 14), Move Over Mrs. Markham (Feb. 19-March 28), Enchanted April (April 2-May 10), and The Columnist (May 14-June 13). LTW also hosts a family series, All Together Theatre, with four performances running from September through June 2015. It all happens at 5317 E. Speedway Blvd. Details are available by calling the box office at (520) 327-4242 or visiting LiveTheatreWorkshop.org. – Zόcalo

The Rogue Theatre
This season marks the company’s tenth anniversary, which has developed a reputation for presenting classic stage works with a unique twist. This year includes plays by luminaries such as Clifford Odets (Awake and Sing, Sept. 11-28), Samuel Beckett (Waiting for Godot, Jan. 8-25), Virginia Woolf (The Lady in the Looking Glass, Feb. 26-March 15) and William Shakespeare (The Merchant of Venice, April 30-May 17). The Rogue’s intimate space at 300 E. University Blvd. in the Historic “Y” is an ideal location to re-experience the classics. Go to TheRogueTheatre.org for more information or ring (520) 551-2053.  – Herb Stratford

UA Repertory Theatre
An often overlooked gem on the local theatre scene, the University of Arizona’s Repertory Theatre program presents an annual season of shows that are excellent in their execution, and that also provide a chance for the public to see the next generation of professional stage talent right here in town before they make their way to the Great White Way. This season they will present six shows, including: Frankenstein (Oct. 19–Nov. 9), The Full Monty (Nov. 9–Dec. 7), and Othello (March 8–April 5). Shows take place on the UA campus in the intimate Tornabene Theatre black box space and in the Marroney Theatre, just off Speedway Boulevard and Park Avenue. Find the full season’s schedule, and tickets, at Theatre.Arizona.Edu– Herb Stratford

Winding Road Theatre Ensemble
According to its website, “WRTE has a particular commitment to developing new work by American playwrights. We fulfill our mission by producing seasons of contemporary and classic works representing diverse styles, themes, and perspectives; and by presenting readings, workshops, and full productions of new plays.” This season it brings three productions. From Nov. 6-23 is Arthur Miller’s classic Death of a Salesman; United, by Toni Press-Coffman,hits the stage Feb. 5-22 and “explores the lives of the passengers and crew members of United Flight 93, who came together on September 11, 2001 in an attempt to take back the plane from terrorists, and saved the lives of an incalculable number of people.” Rough Magic, by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa, rounds out the season April 16-May 3 with itshilarious contemporary riff on The Tempest, it presents a Caliban who has escaped Prospero’s island and is on the run from his powerful master. He finds himself in modern-day New York where he joins forces with a dramaturg with magical powers and a love-struck lifeguard who might just be the child warrior fated to save the world.” Performance locations, tickets and more details are available at WindingRoadTheater.org or by calling the box office at (520) 401-3626.
– Zόcalo

Dance

Artifact Dance Project company dancers Photo: Ed Flores

Artifact Dance Project Company Dancers.
Photo: Ed Flores

Artifact Dance Project
Artifact Dance Project begins their 2014-2015 season on a high note, having relocated their home base over the summer to a historic Downtown warehouse at 17 E. Toole Ave. While most of their performances will still take place at the Stevie Eller Dance Theatre, 1713 E. University Blvd. on the UA campus, one season highlight is sure to be the fundraiser performance Wearhouse, which is taking place at the troupe’s headquarters on Oct. 24. The warehouse is the company’s home for classes and business operations and will no doubt be inspiring many works to come in the future. As in the past, Artifact continues to offer unique collaborations this year with local composers and artists to create performances which are unlike any other group in town. Collaborative concerts this year include: Down In Town (Dec. 13), An Artist’s Proof (Jan. 9-11), Until (Feb. 6-7) and the return of Speak Easy (April 3-5). Get specifics and tickets at ArtifactDanceProject.org. – Herb Stratford

Ballet Tucson Company Dancers Photo: Ed Flores

Ballet Tucson Company Dancers
Photo: Ed Flores

Ballet Tucson
Tucson’s only professional ballet company kicks off its season with a triple bill premiere performance of the Phantom of the Opera along with Joplin and Boler-O. The Phantom piece is an original piece inspired by the 1925 silent film, and should be a real treat when it hits the stage at the Stevie Eller Dance Theatre, 1713 E. University Blvd., Oct. 17-19. Two other highlights of the 2014-2015 season, its 11th as a fully professional company and the 29th overall, include the presentation of The Nutcracker at the TCC, 260 S. Church Ave., on Dec. 26-28 and the group’s presentation of Sleeping Beauty on May 2-3 at Centennial Hall. See BalletTucson.org for complete details and tickets. – Herb Stratford

UA Dance Photo: Ed Flores

University of Arizona School of Dance
Photo: Ed Flores

University of Arizona School of Dance
This year the UA Dance Ensemble celebrates 10 years of performing in the Stevie Eller Dance Theatre, 1713 E. University Blvd., with six productions slated for the 2014-2015 season. First up is JAZZ in AZ, featuring a fast-paced show with a sampling of jazz, tap and contemporary dance from Sept. 30-Oct. 2. Following is Premium Blend, an amalgam of several pieces being presented Oct. 23-26 and Oct. 30-Nov. 2. Next is In Focus–Student Spotlight, concerts showcasing student creativity through choreography and performance, on stage Dec. 4-7. Color Wheel is another presentation with a fusion of dance performances happening Feb. 18-22. Another student spotlight, titled Boundless, takes place April 23–May 2. Spring Collection offers new multi-genre works by faculty from April 24-May 3. Get more information at Dance.Arizona.edu. – Zόcalo

ZUZI! Apprentice Company "Powerful Women" Concert Spring 2014. Photo: Larry Hanelin

ZUZI! Apprentice Company “Powerful Women” Concert Spring 2014.
Photo: Larry Hanelin

ZUZI! Dance Company
The non-profit community arts organization is a professional dance company, a school for dance and movement arts, and a theater for the performing arts community. The group is committed to “affirming diversity and collaboration through educational programming, community participation, and local and national outreach and exchange,” according to their website. Three events of note are on its calendar this fall. First up is the annual No Frills-Cheap Thrills Dance Happenin’, set to take place Oct. 24-25 at 7:30pm. The yearly Family and Friends Sharing event is Dec. 6 and the Solstice Celebration happens from December 19 to 21. All shows take place at the ZUZI! Theater, located in the Historic Y, 738 N. 5th Ave. Find out more at ZUZIMoveIt.org– Herb Stratford

Music

Arizona Friends of Chamber Music present Artemis Quartet on Wednesday, April 8, 2015. Photo courtesy Arizona Friends of Chamber Music

Arizona Friends of Chamber Music present Artemis Quartet on Wednesday, April 8, 2015. Photo courtesy Arizona Friends of Chamber Music

Arizona Friends of Chamber Music
According to its press release, AFCM has, since 1948, “brought internationally renowned musicians to Tucson, presenting exquisite chamber music in the comfort of a small concert hall — one where the audience becomes part of the performance. It is intimate, engaging, and friendly…..a world-class experience!” Performances happen at the Tucson Convention Center complex’s 511-seat Leo Rich Theatre, 260 S. Church Ave. AFCM offers a three-part season: the Evening Series, Piano & Friends and the 22st Tucson Winter Chamber Music Festival. The 67th annual Evening Series features six concerts, the 20th season of the Piano & Friends series hosts four concerts and the Winter Chamber Music Festival runs from March 15-22. Affordable season and individual concert tickets are available online at ArizonaChamberMusic.org or by calling the box office at (520) 577-3769. – Zόcalo

Tucson Pops Orchestra hosts Rob Wright, one of the premier four-string banjoists in the world, on Sept. 21. Image via TucsonPops.org

Tucson Pops Orchestra hosts Rob Wright, one of the premier four-string banjoists in the world, on Sept. 21. Image via TucsonPops.org

Tucson Pops Orchestra
This season, Tucson Pops celebrates its 60th Anniversary of Music Under the Stars™. The 2014 Fall Concert Series takes place on Sundays in September at 7 p.m. at the DeMeester Outdoor Performance Center, Reid Park. Sept. 7 hosts the Conductor’s Choice with Music Director/Conductor László Vere presenting a wide-range of favorites; Sept. 14 sees Orchestral Favorites, again with László Vere at the helm and Sept. 21 features Rob Wright, one of the premier four-string banjoists in the world. There is a limited amount of seating at DeMeester, which fills up quickly. Bring folding chairs or a blanket. The Parks and Recreation Department runs three shuttles from 4:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. from the parking lot at El Con Mall. Find out more at TucsonPops.org– Zόcalo

TSO presents Pinchas Zukerman, a virtuoso violinist, with his wife, Amanda Forsyth, Principal Cellist with Canada’s National Arts Center Orchestra on March 31, 2015.

TSO presents Pinchas Zukerman, a virtuoso violinist, with his wife, Amanda Forsyth, Principal Cellist with Canada’s National Arts Center Orchestra on March 31, 2015.

Tucson Symphony Orchestra
Each year the Tucson Symphony presents an ambitious mix of programs for the community that combine classics, pops programs and innovative new work. This year is no exception as their 2014-2015 slate features works by Gershwin and Copland (Sept. 26/28), Tchaikovsky and Greig (Oct. 24/26), Brahms and Mozart (Jan. 10/11) Ultimate Symphonic Rock (Feb. 7/8), Texas Tenors (Feb. 28/March 1) and The Canadian Brass (March 21). Also not to miss this year is a performance by Pinchas Zukerman and Amanda Forsyth on March 31. With performances at the Tucson Convention Center and other Tucson locations there’s no excuse not to have a symphonic art experience this year. See TucsonSymphony.org for the full schedule, ticket and location information. – Herb Stratford

Variety

Lela Rose of Black Cherry Burlesque. Photo: Hannah Gaber

Lela Rose of Black Cherry Burlesque.
Photo: Hannah Gaber

Black Cherry Burlesque
Tucson’s longest running burlesque production hosts a live, theatrical production involving the art of striptease. Many performers pay homage to the extensive history of burlesque with vintage style costumes and classic 30s and 40s music of burlesque’s heyday. Headquartered at the Surly Wench Pub, 424 N. 4th Ave., BCB was started by the pub’s owners, Inga Kaboom and Stephka von Snatch, in 2006 after they fell in love with the art of burlesque. The show features a wide variety of performers, styles, themes and music. Performances are at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. on the first Friday of each month. On Sept. 19, BCB debuts a new production, Burlesque For The Soul, a benefit for Southern Arizona Center Against Sexual Assault. Doors are at 7 p.m., the show is at 8 p.m. with an encore at 10 p.m. $10 cover at the door, $20 VIP seating available for advance purchase at BlackCherryBurlesque.com. Call (520) 882-0009 for more details. – Zócalo

Carnival of Illusion
One of the hottest tickets in town for the past three years has been Carnival of Illusion’s intimate parlor magic experience. Having sold out the last three seasons in a row, the Tucson-based magic duo of Roland Sarlot and Susan Eyed have expanded their base to include performances in Phoenix and Mesa. Their sixth season opens locally at the Doubletree by Hilton, 445 S Alvernon Way, on Sept. 26. It is a not-to-be-missed show due to its intimate and fun nature as well as the quality of the stage work. Tickets and dates are online at CarnivalOfIllusion.com. – Herb Stratford

The intimate setting of the Carnival of Illusion show. Photo: Open Lens

The intimate setting of the Carnival of Illusion show.
Photo: Open Lens

Comedy
We admit we haven’t been hipped to the local comedy scene, and we hope the 2014-2015 season changes that! A few local comedy troupes are currently on our radar. Not Burnt Out Just Unscrewed, online at UnscrewedComedy.com, hosts weekly improv shows at its new mid-town digs at 3244 E. Speedway Blvd. every Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. The LaughingStock Comedy Company, Laughing.com, brings their unique brand of improvisational comedy to two Tucson venues in October. On Oct. 3 at Tanque Verde High School, 4201 N. Melpomene Way, LaughingStock performs at 6 p.m. to raise money to benefit the TVHS Theatre Department in their efforts to purchase new curtains. The Saturday, Oct. 4 7:30 p.m. performance at St. John on the Desert Presbyterian Church, 2695 N. Houghton Road, to raise funds for the church’s missions and outreach. Tucson Improv Movement (TIM, TucsonImprov.com) recently moved to a location on 4th Avenue, click here for the Zócalo story. Of course, we can’t cover comedy without mentioning Tucson’s mainstay Laff’s Comedy Caffe! Running continuously since 1988, Laff’s has live stand-up shows by nationally touring comedians every Friday and Saturday night – with two shows a night. Laff’s also hosts a weekly “Open Mic Nite” every Thursday, “where you can get a glimpse at some of the Southwest’s up and coming stars in the comedy world and even jump on stage yourself.” Laff’s is located at 2900 E. Broadway Blvd., online at LaffsTucson.com and by phone at (520) 32-FUNNY.
Zócalo

Mavis Staples performs at Fox Tucson Theatre on Fri, Sept 5.  A benefit show for KXCI 91.3FM community radio. Photo: Chris Strong

Mavis Staples performs at Fox Tucson Theatre on Fri, Sept 5. A benefit show for KXCI 91.3FM community radio. Photo: Chris Strong

Fox Theatre
Dubbed as Downtown’s crown jewel, the historic Fox Theatre (17 W. Congress St.) is offering a robust line-up of heavy hitters in the live music events category, several variety shows and classic films for its 2014-2015 season. Highlights include: Mavis Staples, Sept. 5; Last Comic Standing, Sept. 16; La Musique TYP annual Fashion Show, Sept. 19; Stand Up to Stop Violence IV, Sept. 21; Get The Led Out/Led Zepplin Tribute, Sept. 28; Kansas, Oct. 3; Nils Lofgren, Oct. 4; Paul Reiser, Oct. 9; Girls Night: The Musical, Oct. 11; Asia, Oct. 13; Lee Ann Womack, The Way I’m Livin’ Tour, Oct. 16; Tucson fashion Week, Oct. 18; Ray Lamontagne, Oct. 23; David Broza, Oct. 30; Darlene Love, Nov. 2; David Sedaris, Nov. 6; James Van Praagh, Nov. 7; Senegal Gospel Choir, Nov. 9; Late Night Catechism, Nov. 22; Judy Collins, Dec. 2; Colin Mochrie & Brad Sherwood, Dec. 6; Dr. John, Dec. 7; Merry-Achi Christmas, Dec. 18; The Fab Four: Ultimate Beatles Tribute, Jan. 17; Dianne Reeves, Jan. 18; The Hot Sardines, Jan. 23; Roger McGuinn, Feb. 13; Audra McDonald, March 15; Ladies Sing the Blues, April 18. Specifics on the events are available at FoxTucsonTheatre.org or by calling the box office at (520) 547-3040. – Zócalo

Odyssey Storytelling
Every month, this Tucson institution hosts community storytellers bringing their slice of life to local audiences. As its website states,The act of sharing stories about our journey connects us to other people and in this way, the audience is a vital part of the event. Odyssey Storytelling provides the container to bring together a collection of diverse tellers.” Topics on the docket for the fall are: Sept. 10, Out of this World: Amazing, Supernatural or Unforgettable (at the University of Arizona’s Flandrau Science Center); Oct. 2: Peer Pressure; Nov. 6: Breaking Bread; Dec. 4: OMG! The Cringe Show. All shows are at 7 p.m. at Fluxx Studio and Gallery, 414 E. 9th St., unless noted. Learn more at OdysseyStorytelling.com or call (520) 730-4112. – Zócalo

UAPresents
UApresents’ season is again full of different and interesting offerings this year with a few familiar returning shows mixed in as well. Back for a third year is the family-friendly Zoppe Family Circus (Jan. 9-18), along with other perennial favorites Alvin Ailey Dance Theatre (April 12) and the KODO drum group (Feb. 8). Other shows of note include singer/songwriter Suzanne Vega (Feb. 22 at Fox Theatre), A Conversation with Alec Baldwin (Nov. 15), Comedian Jay Leno (Oct. 25) and perhaps the hottest ticket of the season Gabby Giffords and Mark Kelly (Oct. 26). Shows are at the Centennial Hall, 1020 E. University Blvd. on the UA Campus, and at other locations around town. Find further details at UAPresents.org– Herb Stratford

UApresents "An Evening with Gabby Giffords and Mark Kelly" on Oct. 26. Photo courtesy UApresents

UApresents “An Evening with Gabby Giffords and Mark Kelly” on Oct. 26.
Photo courtesy UApresents

In Memoriam: Howie Salmon

August 27, 2014 |
Photo captions, left to right: Howie Salmon at Hotel Congress’ 25th anniversary Rainer tribute day 9/5/10. Posted on Salmon’s Facebook page in Sept. 2010 by Ricky Gelb. Howie Salmon at Club Congress’ 25th Anniversary. Posted to Salomon’s Facebook page in Sept. 2010 by David Noriega. Howie Salmon at Club Congress 25th Anniversary. Photo posted to his Facebook page in Sept. 2010 by Caitlin von Schmidt.

Photo captions, left to right: Howie Salmon at Hotel Congress’ 25th anniversary Rainer tribute day 9/5/10. Posted on Salmon’s Facebook page in Sept. 2010 by Ricky Gelb. Howie Salmon at Club Congress’ 25th Anniversary. Posted to Salomon’s Facebook page in Sept. 2010 by David Noriega. Howie Salmon at Club Congress 25th Anniversary. Photo posted to his Facebook page in Sept. 2010 by Caitlin von Schmidt.

Howard Salmon was an integral part of Tucson’s burgeoning arts and music scene since he started championing local punk and new wave bands through his SLIT fanzine back in the early 80s. I was lucky enough to get to know Howie when I wrote about him for the August 2007 Downtown Tucsonan, documenting the extraordinary life he lived and the passion he had to support all that was good and right and true in the Old Pueblo. Not to mention, he was one of the kindest, selfless and most amazing human beings I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing. Rest in peace Howie. We will miss you brother. – Brent Miles

Howie Salmon was also a drummer, a prolific artist who won the 2007 Tucson Pima Arts Council Lumies arts award for Individual Achievement/Emerging Artist, an adjunct professor at Pima Community College and a beloved Tucsonan. In September of 2012, he was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumor and was given three months to live. He lived for almost two years past that diagnosis when he passed away on Aug. 7, 2014. Following his postings on Facebook, he stayed involved in art, appreciating the beauty of life and nature and created his “Brain Tumor Man” graphic epic poem.

In Oct. 2012, he wrote a beautiful reflection on the responses to his cancer diagnosis. (The following is an excerpt.)

“Ever since my predicament was mentioned on Facebook I’ve been the subject of a huge outpouring of love and good feeling, and all of this has been very helpful for me.  I can tell you, going public with my cancer diagnosis had a profound effect on my life: it’s stimulated some things in people that have in turn brought about some amazing encounters.

“All of this attention directed at me from the media (social media, to print media, to writers with a long view of history) to how I’m spending my time has re-energized me. I’m being referred to as a culture creator, a builder of community, an historian, a teacher, a visionary, a story teller, an ‘elder’ (all of it’s true, by the way, don’t you forget it!!), but I’m now feeling a little sheepish about it all. I’ve been told that I’m dying in three months.

“Three weeks ago, I weighed down with the heavy thoughts of being ‘cut down in my prime.’ Now, I really don’t have time for that. I’ve got art to make! Comics to draw! Memories to record! People to see! Music to hear! Things to do! Plans to make! Life has suddenly jolted into fast forward. If death comes slinking around my door, so be it. I don’t have the time to hang around playing chess with death, like in the Ingmar Bergman film, The Seventh Seal. I’m past that. I’m turned on by life! There’s too much to do!

“Thanks Facebook! Thanks Internet! Thanks social media! And to all of my friends and followers who use it! Staying connected saves and improves lives.”

Howie’s strength and wise words inspired his friends and family and even those who didn’t know him that well. Salmon’s contributions to the Tucson community will be remembered and cherished for a long time to come. Thanks for all you did for Tucson Howie, memories of your awesomeness is in the hearts of many. – Jamie Manser

Summer in the City Beach Party

August 25, 2014 |
Shrimp Chaperone photo: Danni Valdez

Shrimp Chaperone rocks the desert beach party on Sat., Aug. 30.
photo: Danni Valdez

As summer wends to an end, the Downtown Tucson Partnership is hosting its last beach party at Downtown’s ephemeral beach, 45 N. 5th Ave. Enjoy beer and wine on the sand and turf and say goodbye to summer on Saturday, Aug. 30.

Featuring kids activities, beginning at 4 p.m., including: carnival games, sand castle competition, water games, and much more. Live music begins at 7 p.m. and runs until 1 a.m.

7 p.m.: Skyline – Familiar songs with a soulful twist

8:45 p.m.: Shrimp ChaperoneDesert Surf Rock

11 p.m.: Surf Sonics – Surf Lounge

Food Trucks
DC Jumbie Latin Caribbean,
Bam Bam Mexican Asian Fusion,
Sonoran Mexican Cuisine Sonoran Hotdogs

Kids Activities: 

10 carnival games
YMCA Booth, misc. activities
Playformance, obstacle course
Children’s Museum, big blue blocks (interactive)
Sand Castle competition with gift certificates to downtown restaurants
The WonderFools, juggling, face painting
Maracana Indoor sports, soccer activities

Summer in the City Tucson

Tucson B-Day Fun @ Southern AZ Transportation Museum

August 19, 2014 |
Steam Engine #1673 at the Southern Arizona Transportation Museum.

Steam Engine #1673 at the Southern Arizona Transportation Museum.

On Saturday, Aug. 23, the Southern Arizona Transportation Museum (SATM) hosts a bevy of activity to commemorate our locale’s establishment as the Presidio de Tucson  when this valley was the northern most outpost of Spain’s New World territories  on Aug. 20, 1775.

For the 239th birthday, the museum and the Historic Train Depot is hosting:

    • Live music by Bill and the Southern Comfort Band
    • Railroad art exhibits in the Amtrak lobby
    • Operating model trains
    • Vintage vehicles on the plaza
    • Union Pacific’s diesel simulator for Operation Lifesaver
    • Climb into the cab of Steam Engine #1673
    • Bilingual railroad exhibits

Along with other interactive offerings!
It all takes place at SATM, 414 N. Toole Ave. from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Birthday cake at 11 a.m. with Mayor Rothschild!

Visit TucsonHistoricDepot.org for more information.