Friday, November 22, 2019

Posted By on Fri, Nov 22, 2019 at 2:56 PM


“We’re here in Manchester and just got news that Years to Burn (Sub Pop, 2019) has received two Grammy nominations,” Calexico proudly announced via Facebook, on Wednesday, Nov. 20, after having received the fortuitous news.  
click to enlarge Calexico Receive Not One But Two Grammy Nods (2)
Courtesy
For Years to Burn—the follow-up to 2005’s In the Reins—Sam Beam, Joey Burns and John Convertino reconvened in Nashville at the Sound Emporium, a fabled studio founded in the sixties by Cowboy Jack Clement, where the album was recorded in just four days in Dec. 2018.


“Thank you to all at The Recording Academy and everyone who has supported this collaboration. Thanks also to Sub Pop Records, City Slang, [record producer] Matt Ross-Spang and everyone involved in the making of this record.”

Calexico are in the running for two awards for their collaboration with Iron & Wine: Best Americana Album for Years To Burn and Best American Roots Performance for “Father Mountain.”

Quite a distinction. Calexico, along with Iron & Wine, are shining bright in the “Midnight Sun.”

The 2020 Grammy's will be presented on Sunday, Jan. 26. CBS will broadcast the ceremony live.

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Posted By on Fri, Nov 22, 2019 at 2:32 PM

Co-hosts Christopher Boan and Tyler Vondrak return to break down the future of Arizona football, as well as analyzing the future for Arizona's mens basketball team.

Boan and Vondrak hand out their verdict on football coach Kevin Sumlin, who has won nine out of 22 games as the team's coach.

The duo hand out their picks to replace Sumlin, given his failure to revitalize the Arizona football program.

They then assess the way Arizona performed in their 71-64 win over South Dakota State on Thursday and hand out their pick for the team's first loss of the year.

The second segment handles this weekend's Pac-12 football games, with picks for game of the weekend, as well as blowout watch and upsets to watch for.

The final segment of Friday's podcast handles the pair's picks for the weekend's college football games outside the Conference of Champions.

Tune in each Friday for a new episode of the Tucson Weekly's sports podcast.

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Posted By on Fri, Nov 22, 2019 at 2:25 PM

click to enlarge Devonaire Doutrive Kicked Off Arizona Basketball Team
Connor Buss, Foreword Films
Arizona freshman Devonaire Doutrive gets some help up from his teammates during Arizona's 90-69 loss to UCLA in 2019.
Sophomore guard Devonaire Doutrive has been dismissed from the University of Arizona's mens basketball program, according to a University release.

The reason for the school's dismissal was not given in the release, which included a quote from 11th year coach Sean Miller.

"Effective immediately, Devonaire Doutrive has been dismissed from our men’s basketball program for violation of team rules," Miller's statement read. "He will continue to receive academic aid and support through the remainder of the current semester. We wish him well in the next steps of his academic and athletic career."

Doutrive has appeared in three games this season, averaging 3.3 points per game. He played 19 minutes in the team's 71-64 win over South Dakota State on Thursday night, after missing the team's first two regular season contests against Northern Arizona and Illinois.

The sophomore was suspended indefinitely prior to the team's preseason game against Chico State on Nov. 1, citing a violation of unspecified team rules.

It is unknown whether Doutrive's dismissal is related to his earlier suspension. 

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Posted By on Fri, Nov 22, 2019 at 12:03 PM

The Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance and the Town of Oro Valley are once again partnering to bring the largest celebration of the arts and culture in the region back to town in the form of the Oro Valley Holiday Festival of the Arts & Tree Lighting Celebration.

The creative place making event returns Saturday, Dec. 7 and Sunday, Dec. 8 to the Oro Valley Marketplace (12155 N. Oracle Road). The two-day festival includes more than 150 artisans, 30 performances by student and local musicians, family arts activities, food trucks, the TUBACHRISTMAS holiday play-along, an appearance by Santa and plenty opportunities to make some memories with your loved ones.
 
Festivities culminate in the lighting of the 35-foot Oro Valley holiday tree at 6 p.m. on Dec. 7. A community favorite, TUBACHRISTMAS takes place Dec. 7 at 2 p.m.

Entertainment Schedule


Saturday, Dec. 7

10 to 10:30 a.m.: Oro Valley Jazz Band
10:40 to 11:10 a.m.: SASO Flute Ensemble
11:15 to 11:40 a.m.: Maguire Academy of Irish Dance
11:50 a.m. to 12:05 p.m.: One Rehearsal Short
12:10 to 12:40 p.m.: Sons of Orpheus
12:50 to 1:05 p.m.: Wilson Elementary Choir
1:10 to 1:30 p.m.: Wilson Middle School Choir
2:00 to 2:45 p.m.: Tuba Christmas
3:00 p.m.: Santa Arrival Procession with Ironwood Marching Band 
3:10 p.m.: Opening Remarks by Andrew Capasso
3:30 to 3:50 p.m.: Painted Sky Elementary Chorus
4:00 to 4:15 p.m.: Oro Valley Team Dance
4:20 to 5:00 p.m.: Kids Unlimited
5:10 to 5:30 p.m.: Tucson Girls Chorus Northwest Choir
5:00 p.m.: Lauren Lawson performing at Tree
5:30 p.m.: Carolyn’s Carolers performing at Tree 
6:00 p.m.: Tree Lighting Celebration with Santa at Tree

Carolyn’s Carolers will play music through the event from 4 to 5:50 p.m.

Sunday, December 8

10:15 to 10:45 a.m.: Lauren Lawson (Oro Valley Singer-Songwriter)
11 to 11:45 a.m.: Absinthe Beat Cats (Jazz and Holiday)
Noon to 12:45 p.m.: Nossa Bossa Nova (Brazilian Holiday Songs)
1 to 1:45 p.m.: Desert Melodies (Holiday Favorites)
2 to 2:30 p.m.: Coronado Middle School Singers
3 to 3:45 p.m.: The Nazarene Band 

Havin’ a Blast A Capella Quartet will perform music through the event from noon to 2 p.m.

Innovation Station

At this year’s Innovation Station, presented by Pima Federal Credit Union, The University of Arizona Center for Digital Humanities will present a virtual reality station utilizing Oculus VR to display 3D art designs. Attendees can also paint in a “3D immersive landscape” with Google’s TiltBrush software.

Bookman’s will also host a literary pop up where children can hear stories from local authors, or enjoy a superhero adventure with the Comic Bookmobile, hosted by Frank Powers.

Chalk Art

Sponsored by the Town of Oro Valley, the festival will also feature holiday-themed murals from local artists Wesley Creigh and Alex Jimenez in front of the Walmart and Century Theaters. 

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Posted By on Fri, Nov 22, 2019 at 9:24 AM

click to enlarge Arizona Survives Scare Against South Dakota State, 71-64
Mike Christy | Arizona Athletics
Arizona freshman guard Josh Green finished Thursday's game against South Dakota State with 15 points, 2 rebounds and an assist. The Wildcats won the contest, 71-64.
The Arizona Wildcats fought through their first real adversity of the young college basketball season on Thursday night, holding off the South Dakota State Jackrabbits, 71-64.

The Wildcats (5-0), trailed for much of Thursday's contest, before scoring seven unanswered points midway through the second half to take control of the game.

The team's victory didn't satiate 11th year coach Sean Miller's quest for success, however, as the veteran coach lambasted his team for its poor play in his postgame comments.

"First things first, I want to give South Dakota State a lot of credit. Those kids and their coach had a really good game plan, they executed, they’re a well-disciplined team. We knew that before we played them," Miller said. "They’re used to winning and you can sense and feel that, and they have a very solid point guard. And (Douglas) Wilson we knew coming into the game was an outstanding player.

"And they’re disciplined on both sides of the ball. They played against the team tonight that wasn’t very smart, and that’s our team."

Miller's postgame soliloquy rambled on for another three or so minutes before moving on to other topics, but told the tale of a coach not satisfied with a single-digit victory against a team from the Summit Conference.

“Everybody gets kicks out of quick shots and it’s fun, it’s like we’re at a carnival. It doesn’t work that way. It doesn’t work," Miller continued. "The analogy is no different in college football. When the weather gets cold, you gotta be able to both run and pass. You gotta be smart. You know, that sounds good, but usually when the game gets going fast, that means that you’re flying around on defense, you’re getting defensive stops, you’re making good plays.

"And of course we have talent in the open court and that’s when the quick shots are going to go up and they’re going to be good shots. But to take quick, crazy shots, 3-point shots the way we did tonight, we’re very fortunate to win."

The Wildcats' path to victory against a zealous Jackrabbits squad began in earnest when freshman guard Josh Green hit a midrange jumper to give the home side a 40-39 lead with 11:51 left in the game.

Green, who finished the night with a team-high 15 points on 4-of-13 shooting, was one of three Wildcats to finish in double figures, along with Nico Mannion (14) and Zeke Nnaji (14).

Miller spotlighted the former in his postgame remarks, citing the lack of shots that Nnaji, who has entered the contest having hit 17 consecutive field goals, took.

The freshman forward finished the night with four made field goals on five attempts, with six rebounds in 21 minutes of game action.

Miller said the Wildcats need to do a better job of getting the ball inside the paint to Nnaji, instead of hoisting ill-time three-pointers, after Arizona shot 3-of-17 from beyond the arc.

“We have a player on our team who leads the nation. If you lead the nation in anything, you are outstanding. Zeke Nnaji has proven that when he gets the ball, especially around the rim, great things happen," Miller said. "We play 20 minutes, and he was in foul trouble, but it really started in the second half of the last game.

He didn’t take one shot. He didn’t take one shot. You have the nation’s leading field-goal shooter on your team and he doesn’t take one jump hook? Not one? That’s a problem."

The Wildcats will look to improve upon those facets come Sunday's 6:30 p.m. game, when they host Long Beach State.

The Beach enter Sunday's contest with a 1-3 record, having lost their last two contests to Stanford (86-58) and St. Mary's (81-63).

The two teams have met seven times, dating back to 1987, with the Wildcats winning each of those contests by double digits.

Sunday's contest will be carried on television by the Pac-12 Network. Tickets for the contest can be found on the University of Arizona's website.

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Posted By on Fri, Nov 22, 2019 at 9:09 AM

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Posted By on Fri, Nov 22, 2019 at 1:00 AM

Friday, Nov. 22

click to enlarge XOXO: Where to Rock This Weekend, Nov. 22-24
Birds and Arrows
"Sweet Jesus of Nazareth!" New Orleans rapper and Queen of Bounce—an up-tempo, bass heavy music designed to make "yo' ass shake"—Big Freedia, ​with​ ​her​ ​legendary​ ​Shake​ ​Team,​ ​bring​ ​bounce ​dance ​moves​ ​like​ ​"the​ ​twerk," "the wiggle," "the​ ​bend​ ​ova'" and ​the​ "hands​ ​on​ ​the​ ​ground" to the Rialto Theatre. South Korean boy group Boyfriend hit the stage first...

During the mid 1980s, David Slutes, Rich Hopkins and compadres became known as one of the progenitors of the desert rock sound. Today, celebrating the 30th anniversary of the release of Witch Doctor (Mammoth/RCA Records, 1989), The Sidewinders' hooky songs, like Mexican jumping cactus, will attach themselves to your skin. At Club Congress. Birds and Arrows open the show with aplomb...

In 2018, after a 10-day tour of Mexico City venues, this San Diego-based electro-pop act recorded their self-titled debut EP with Oingo Boingo bassist John Avila before relocating to Mexico City. Viri Dimayuga—cemetery counselor by day, singer/guitarist by night—believes Mexicans, in general, are more open to electronica. "They grew up with it. And, they like to dance more." Sisster—with local support from female-fronted pop punkers en Español Diluvio—are at The Boxyard...

Combining the raw power and sinewy tension of rock 'n' roll with the poetic artistry and expressive movement of dance, Tucson Libertine League's Burlesque Battle of the Bands pits hellfire rockers Sugar Stains against the blue-eyed soul/rock of Miss Olivia and the Interlopers. This is sure to be a monumental clash, the type found in classic dystopian fiction that serves to quash the underpinnings of a repressed society questing for freedom. At 191 Toole...

It's Nitecall's First Anniversary. To celebrate resident DJ Mijito goes deep into the Depeche Mode catalog pulling out rarities, B-sides, remixes and all the classics. At R Bar...

Her passion for music was spurred at 19 when she began her love affair with the guitar. Tucson via Hermosillo, indie-pop songstress Belinda Esquer performs at Hotel McCoy...

Obstinately crafting acoustic music for the sophisticated urban hillbilly, The Determined Luddites will be joined by alumni Gary Mackender on the squeezebox. At Crooked Tooth Brewing Co...

Susan Artemis tickles the keys at The Dusty Monk Pub...

Led by Parisian guitarist, now Tucson fav, Naim Amor's A Jazz Trio sets the tone at Exo Bar...

Playing bossa novas, ballads and blues, The Jed Paradies Trio swing at The Coronet...

Live large. Smile broadly. Big Grin unspool their homegrown brand of Southwest indie folk at Sand-Reckoner...

BTP & Friends along with Dirty Magic Mike offer up a menu of indie rock and desert folk. At Saint Charles Tavern...

From London, these vintage-tinted rockers with a literary bent, aim for their songs to have the depth and variety of book characters. The Dead Writers perform at Thunder Canyon Brewstillery. Flanked by Silent Movie Actress and Something Like Appropriate...

Led by spitfire vocalist/violaist Deanna Cross, The Unday bring their genre-defying sound to the Surly Wench Pub. Gladhammer and Whiskey Knuckles pound furiously in support...

DJ Jahmar International hosts '90s Juggalo Jam. With live performances by Gilgamesh, ILL V and a surprise guest. At Irene's Holy Donuts...

Leading the youth-driven alternative corrido movement, T3r are at Club 4th Ave...

Saturday, Nov. 23

click to enlarge XOXO: Where to Rock This Weekend, Nov. 22-24
Leila Lopez
Pushing the lexicon of mariachi music into nuevas fronteras. Challenging boundaries that the male-dominated orthodoxy may see as nothing short of heresy. Their reputation as NYC's first and only all­female mariachi precedes them. With flowers strewn through their hair, or perhaps, garlands of victory, Latin Grammy winners Flor de Toloache will perform at the Fox Theatre. Violin-wielding child prodigies The Villalobos Brothers add appreciably to the evening...

After 30 years of writing, recording and life on the road, Rolling Stone recently wrote that this musical couple, Karin Bergquist and Linford Detweiler, show "no signs of fatigue, whose moment has finally arrived." If only in your mind, the "post-nuclear, pseudo-alternative, folk-tinged art-pop," of Cincinnati's Over The Rhine will have you eating "Blood Oranges In The Snow." At 191 Toole...

Drum 'n' bass, bounce, trance, house spin round for Smakksgiving. Wolfie, Skip Glitch, Cuddle Muffin, PhotoniX, Kool Arrow and Smakk drop a needle in a groove. At Irene's Holy Donuts...

Rising up from the underground, West Coast rave scene veteran—and resident DJ presiding over legendary full moon desert gatherings—Brad Moontribe will take you on a techno dance journey. With OVRLP (DJ Hart b2b Nic). At Solar Culture Gallery...

Natty & The Sunset entertain with the sweetest of indie-folk songs. In the courtyard at La Cocina Restaurant & Cantina...

Singer-songwriter Leila Lopez, accompanied by bassist Brian Green, perform at Sand-Reckoner...

Backed by some of Tucson's finest, Emilie Marchand sings jazz standards, '60s soul and vintage country. In the courtyard at Mercado San Agustin...

"Like, Oh my god." "Gag me with a spoon." Relive the nostalgia—or hell, Gen Zers experience it for the first time—of director Martha Coolidge's Valley Girl. DJ NoirTech chaperones the '80s dance party. At the Surly Wench Pub...

Sunday, Nov. 24

Post-modern American songster Peter Dalton Ronstadt & The Co. and old time country crooner Freddy Parish share the stage. At Monterey Court...

The Last Sunday Revival finds country bluesman Christopher T. Stevens waxing and wailing at Tap + Bottle-Downtown...

In the mood for a Guatemalan cacao, mugwort and CBD-infused lucid meditation weaving through hypnotic soundscapes? RootFlute connects with ancient Mayan wisdom. At Solar Culture Gallery...

Four historic organizations—Arizona Public Media, Hotel Congress, The Rialto Theatre and Tucson Symphony Orchestra—celebrate milestone anniversaries with a soirée that includes live performances, art, historical lectures and tours and, oh yeah, birthday cake. Yay! Century of Tucson Party unfolds at Hotel Congress...

As part of the centenary the Rialto Theatre will transform for the day into El Cine Plaza (as it was once known during its time as a Spanish language movie house in 1970s) and screen Al Son Del Mambo, Cantiflas' Por Mis Pistolas and other silver screen classics from yesteryear. As well as a musical performance by Sergio Mendoza. Mucho caliente...

It's guaranteed to get funky when Mik & The Funky Brunch serve it up at La Cocina Restaurant & Cantina...

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Posted By on Fri, Nov 22, 2019 at 1:00 AM

Friday, Nov. 22

Pachamanca Festival. Villa Peru Restaurant is hosting a feast straight from the Andes Mountains, and everyone’s invited. This weekend, they’re showing off the great meats to be found from Peru alongside some hearty veggies. This specialty menu includes chicken, pork and lamb, plus corn, potatoes and tamales, all marinated with Peruvian spices. It’s their way of celebrating Thanksgiving down under! 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22 & Saturday, Nov. 23. 1745 E. River Road, Suite 165. Information.

Firestone Walker Seventh Annual Tap Takeover. Don’t you hate it when the big guys take over the little guys? Well, not when it includes 20 beers and special bottle releases coming to town. Firestone Walker Brewing Co. is establishing one heck of a presence at Tap & Bottle’s downtown location for the seventh year, by bringing beers like the Violet Underground, Napa Saison, Bretta Tangerine, Coconut Merlin, Mole Merkin and Los Leñadores American brown ale. This take-over evening includes Firestone beers on tap, as well as specialty bottle releases. 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22. 403 N. Sixth Ave. Information.

Sierra Nevada feature at Craft. It’s the week of takeo-vers! On Friday evening, Craft, A Modern Drinkery will host a representative from Sierra Nevada Brewery to show off some great beers both new and classic. The beer lineup is Sierra Nevada’s Narwhal 2019 Imperial Stout, the holiday-season Celebration Ale, the Northern Hemisphere Wet Hop IPA, and the Sierraveza Craft Lager. Representatives will be there to talk shop and hand out some neat swag. Food Groupie food truck will also be out front. 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22. 4603 E. Speedway Blvd. Information.


Arizona Wines to be Thankful For. If turkey isn’t quite your thing during the Thanksgiving season, head over to Maynards Market and Kitchen, where they’re hosting a tast ing of local wines that will make you just as thankful as when you spend time with family. Maynards will be pouring five of their favorite locals wines. What are their favorites? You’ll have to show up to find out. 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22. 400 N. Toole Ave. $12. Free for wine club members. Information.

Peggy Judy: The West, Past and Future. Growing up in Colorado, Peggy Judy was so in love with the natural beauty of the local landscapes that she was practically destined to be an artist. After studying art in college and working as an illustrator, she married an equine veterinarian in 1988, and entered the world of breeding, raising, training and selling Warmblood Sport horses. In many ways, her new exhibit at the Wilde Meyer Gallery, which features images of cowboys and the ranch lifestyle, melds the two worlds together. She says of the work, “My goal with these western paintings is to shed light on the fact that this ‘essential lifestyle’ still exists today. It is lived every day, rain or shine, for ranch families.” Come meet Judy at this reception. 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22. Show is on display through the end of November at the Wilde Meyer Gallery, 2880 E. Skyline Drive. Free. Information.

Tucson Museum of Art Holiday Artisan Market. On Dasher, on Dancer, on Prancer, on Vixen! To pick up all of your holiday gift fixins! This holiday market represents a perfect opportunity to pick out some gifts for your loved ones and support local artists at the same time. With a healthy selection of artwork, pottery, glass, jewelry, textiles and gift items, the odds are pretty good you’ll find something for at least a few of the people on your nice list. Food trucks and holiday drinks will be standing by to keep you fueled up through your shopping spree. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22, to Sunday, Nov. 24. 140 N. Main Ave. Free. Information.

Bear Down Fridays. It’s the last Bear Down Friday of the season, which means you really should go all out for this one. Put on every single piece of Wildcat gear you own! Paint your face! Do that thing where you paint letters on your chest, if you want! There will be sales and food and drink specials up and down University Boulevard, as well as special guest appearances by head men’s golf coach Jim Anderson and head women’s golf coach Laura Ianello. The pep rally, with the Pride of Arizona marching band, Wilbur and Wilma, UA cheerleaders, the pom squad and twirlers, kicks off at 6 p.m. 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22. Main Gate Square on University Blvd. Free. Information.

Tucson Roadrunners vs. Ontario Reign. This weekend, watch our local hockey team face off against one of their California rivals in two separate games. For Friday’s “Hockey Fights Cancer Night,” you can get a ticket and a purple Roadrunners Fight Hockey beanie for just 23 bucks, with funds benefiting the American Cancer Society. Saturday is Star Wars Night, and the first 1,500 fans get a themed poster! Whatever night you make it to, you’re always in for a fun time when you’re watching a hockey game. 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22 and Saturday, Nov. 23. Tucson Arena, 260 S. Church Ave. Theme night packages are $23 to $38. Information.

The Irishman. Martin Scorsese is making a movie about organized crime? Color me surprised. But seriously, this latest three-and-a-half hour masterwork about gangsters as seen through the eyes of a World War II veteran is being heralded as Scorsese’s best work since Goodfellas. Starring the classic trio of Robert De Niro, Al Pacino and Joe Pesci, The Irishman actually does break new ground for the director; it’s his first feature film with Netflix. But before it’s available in every house on Earth, The Loft Cinema is screening this tale of “a hustler and hitman who worked alongside some of the most notorious figures of the 20th century.” Screenings begin Friday, Nov. 22. 3233 E. Speedway Blvd. Information.

Saturday, Nov. 23

Pachamanca Festival. Villa Peru Restaurant is hosting a feast straight from the Andes Mountains, and everyone’s invited. This weekend, they’re showing off the great meats to be found from Peru alongside some hearty veggies. This specialty menu includes chicken, pork and lamb, plus corn, potatoes and tamales, all marinated with Peruvian spices. It’s their way of celebrating Thanksgiving down under! 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22 & Saturday, Nov. 23. 1745 E. River Road, Suite 165. Information.

Second Annual “Babesgiving.” What exactly is a Babesgiving? It’s when the Brunch Babes of Tucson take over The American Eat Co. & Market to dish out some awesome Thanksgiving foods. The menu includes roasted turkey breast with dried cranberry salsa, and eggs benedict with smoked chipotle hollandaise, plus blueberry pancakes and Thanksgiving calabacita. Vegan options include vegan turkey with cranberry salsa and whipped sweet potatoes (no dairy). And because it’s a brunch event, there are drinks aplenty: the Winter Pear Mimosa, Spiced Cranberry Mimosa, Apple Ginger Sangria and Fall Sangria. Non-alcoholic options will also be available. This year, Brunch Babes is partnering with the Angel Heart Pajama Project, a local resource that accepts donations of pajamas and books to donate to local children in need. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23. 1439 S. Fourth Ave. $55. Information.

Govinda’s Grand Reopening. After months of recovery and reconstruction from a July fire, Govinda’s Natural Foods Buffet is hosting a grand reopening celebration this weekend. The vegan/vegetarian buffet will celebrate the occasion by offering everyone free vegan chocolate cake and herbal iced tea. They will also present a special menu of their most acclaimed vegetarian and international food. Weather permitting, the grand reopening celebration will include live music on the patio. After the reopening weekend, they will also be open on Thanksgiving Day, with their alive turkey being the guest of honor. 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23 & 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 24. 711 E. Blacklidge Drive. Information.

Mozart & da Vinci. Even if you’re not a museum-going, symphony-attending type, you’ve surely heard of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Leonardo da Vinci, two of the most influential artists in history. True Concord will be performing Mozart’s Vesperae solennes de confessore, also known as the “Solemn Vespers,” one of his finest choral works. The performance also features the Arizona premiere of “The Notebooks of Leonardo da Vinci,” in which American composer Jocelyn Hagen explores the mind of the great artist, who died 500 years ago this year. 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22, at Sahuarita USD Auditorium, 22 W. Sahuarita Road in Sahuarita. 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 23, and 3 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 24, at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 7650 N. Paseo Del Norte. $25 GA, $40 premium.

Tucson Museum of Art Holiday Artisan Market. On Dasher, on Dancer, on Prancer, on Vixen! To pick up all of your holiday gift fixins! This holiday market represents a perfect opportunity to pick out some gifts for your loved ones and support local artists at the same time. With a healthy selection of artwork, pottery, glass, jewelry, textiles and gift items, the odds are pretty good you’ll find something for at least a few of the people on your nice list. Food trucks and holiday drinks will be standing by to keep you fueled up through your shopping spree. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22, to Sunday, Nov. 24. 140 N. Main Ave. Free. Information.

Expecting to Fly: Kate Breakey, Susan Burnstine, Keith Carter and Pentti Sammallahti. This exhibit at the Etherton Gallery is designed to both ground us, by reminding us about our connection to the Earth, and lift us up, by unlocking our imaginations and potential. A photo of a tiny quail egg by Kate Breakey, a white deer in a Keith Carter forest or a bridge standing clear in the midst of a smeary cityscape by Susan Burnstine all evoke both memories and stories yet to be told. In the Gallery Pop-Up, Finnish photographer Pentti Sammallahti captures conversations between animals and their environments. His new book, Des oiseaux (Birds) will also be available. Exhibit is open through Jan. 11, 2020. Reception and book signing are 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23. Etherton Gallery, 135 S. Sixth Ave. Free. Information.

El Tour de Tucson. This enormous fundraising ride held every November in Tucson attracts more than 9,000 cyclists from all over the world to bike either 100, 50 or 25 miles (or to do a “Fun Ride” of either 10, 4 or 1 mile). But even if you’re not interested in biking a single mile, head down to Armory Park for the big party! There’s nonstop music, a beer garden, food vendors, kids’ activities, an awards ceremony and lots of merch. Heck, duck into one of the downtown art galleries if you want. Watching the cyclists finish really gives you a sort of vicarious high that you didn’t even have to bike 100 miles to earn! 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23. Armory Park, 222 S. Fifth Ave. Free. Information.

Eighth Annual Thanksgiving Festival. Hosted by the Arizona Bilingual Newspaper, this is one of those rare events that fully embraces Thanksgiving, not letting it be overshadowed by either Halloween or Christmas. So let’s give thanks to that! Along with a day full of games, raffles and live music, this festival will also feature the giveaway of up to a thousand turkeys to Tucson families. A thousand! We suggest referring to Tucson as “Turkeytown” or “The Old Pavo” for the day in honor of the momentous, tryptophan-rich occasion. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23. Tucson Clinica MEdica Familiar, 2770 S. 16th Ave. Free. Information.

Family Adventure Fourth Saturday. It’s so important to teach the next generation about our history, but sometimes it’s difficult to get these lessons across to kids (or to anyone, really) in an exciting way. That’s one of the things that makes the Tucson Presidio Museum, which often features period reenactments and demonstrations, so great. At this event, take a tour of the Presidio grounds, including the barracks, the original foundation wall and the millstone. Check out some blacksmithing or tinsmithing, and enjoy a surprisingly educational interactive activity. The best part? Arrive anytime between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. to participate in whatever way works best for you. Saturday, Nov. 23. Presidio San Augustin del Tucson, 196 N. Court Ave. $5 GA, $1 kids 6 to 14, free for members and kids 5 and under. Information.

Goat Yoga. Don’t let that name intimidate you: Goat yoga isn’t just for goats—it’s for everyone! In fact, rest assured, no matter how silly you feel trying to get your warrior pose or your downward dog right, a goat looks much sillier and more ill-at-ease than you do. Start your weekend off with a little bit of stress relief, made all the less stressful by your bleating little pals. Then rise up ready to face the rest of your weekend—and indeed, the rest of your week, knowing that you conquered goat yoga and it’s safe to assume you are hereafter invincible. 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 23. And Sunday, Nov. 24. Medella Vina Ranch, 4450 S. Houghton Road. Information.

Classic Car Show. In a time of year so marked by special events, there’s something sort of comforting about being able to attend something that happens regularly, just like clockwork, all year long. And if there’s any business type known for being dependable and able to consistently deliver, it’s a neighborhood diner. So head over to Little Anthony’s Diner with the fam for some delicious food, fabulous live music and a display of gorgeous cars. They’ll look even more beautiful because you’re enjoying them in this cool weather. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23. Little Anthony’s Diner, 7010 E. Broadway Blvd. Free. Information.

Tucson Roadrunners vs. Ontario Reign. This weekend, watch our local hockey team face off against one of their California rivals in two separate games. For Friday’s “Hockey Fights Cancer Night,” you can get a ticket and a purple Roadrunners Fight Hockey beanie for just 23 bucks, with funds benefiting the American Cancer Society. Saturday is Star Wars Night, and the first 1,500 fans get a themed poster! Whatever night you make it to, you’re always in for a fun time when you’re watching a hockey game. 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22 and Saturday, Nov. 23. Tucson Arena, 260 S. Church Ave. Theme night packages are $23 to $38. Information.

Cry-Baby. From back in the days when Johnny Depp was more than a controversial Burton staple, Cry-Baby is one of the rare times when a John Waters movie was recognized by (and even fought over) by large movie studios. Part teen movie, part musical, part rom-com, it’s a fond period piece featuring juvenile delinquents on motorbikes breaking any taboo in their way. While not a success when it first released, Cry-Baby (like many of Waters’ movies) became a cult hit later on, and even led to a Broadway musical. Casa Video invites you in on the saturated romance. 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23. 2905 E. Speedway Blvd. Information.

Sunday, Nov. 24

Govinda’s Grand Reopening. After months of recovery and reconstruction from a July fire, Govinda’s Natural Foods Buffet is hosting a grand reopening celebration this weekend. The vegan/vegetarian buffet will celebrate the occasion by offering everyone free vegan chocolate cake and herbal iced tea. They will also present a special menu of their most acclaimed vegetarian and international food. Weather permitting, the grand reopening celebration will include live music on the patio. After the reopening weekend, they will also be open on Thanksgiving Day, with their alive turkey being the guest of honor. 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23 & 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 24. 711 E. Blacklidge Drive. Information.

Mozart & da Vinci. Even if you’re not a museum-going, symphony-attending type, you’ve surely heard of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Leonardo da Vinci, two of the most influential artists in history. True Concord will be performing Mozart’s Vesperae solennes de confessore, also known as the “Solemn Vespers,” one of his finest choral works. The performance also features the Arizona premiere of “The Notebooks of Leonardo da Vinci,” in which American composer Jocelyn Hagen explores the mind of the great artist, who died 500 years ago this year. 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22, at Sahuarita USD Auditorium, 22 W. Sahuarita Road in Sahuarita. 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 23, and 3 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 24, at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 7650 N. Paseo Del Norte. $25 GA, $40 premium. Information.

Tucson Museum of Art Holiday Artisan Market. On Dasher, on Dancer, on Prancer, on Vixen! To pick up all of your holiday gift fixins! This holiday market represents a perfect opportunity to pick out some gifts for your loved ones and support local artists at the same time. With a healthy selection of artwork, pottery, glass, jewelry, textiles and gift items, the odds are pretty good you’ll find something for at least a few of the people on your nice list. Food trucks and holiday drinks will be standing by to keep you fueled up through your shopping spree. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22, to Sunday, Nov. 24. 140 N. Main Ave. Free. Information.

Century of Tucson. This party, celebrating major anniversaries for four of Tucson’s most historic organizations, is going to be huge, and rightfully so: Hotel Congress is turning 100, the Rialto Theatre is turning 99, the Tucson Symphony Orchestra is turning 90 and Arizona Public Media is turning 60! A full day of family fun includes live mariachi and brass quintet music, a pop-up history museum by Hotel Congress & Arizona History Museum, guided historical tours, an Arizona Illustrated theatre experience, the closure of Hotel Congress’ time capsule and a very, very big birthday cake. And that really just scratches the surface of all the cool stuff this event has to offer. Noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 24. Hotel Congress, 311 E. Congress St. Free. Information.


Goat Yoga. Don’t let that name intimidate you: Goat yoga isn’t just for goats—it’s for everyone! In fact, rest assured, no matter how silly you feel trying to get your warrior pose or your downward dog right, a goat looks much sillier and more ill-at-ease than you do. Start your weekend off with a little bit of stress relief, made all the less stressful by your bleating little pals. Then rise up ready to face the rest of your weekend—and indeed, the rest of your week, knowing that you conquered goat yoga and it’s safe to assume you are hereafter invincible. 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 23. And Sunday, Nov. 24. Medella Vina Ranch, 4450 S. Houghton Road. Information. 

Nathan Lee, Piano. To directly quote the Arizona Friends of Chamber Music website, “The last high-school-age pianist we discovered for our series was a kid named Lang Lang, and you know how he turned out.” They make a great point. Young Nathan Lee won first prize in the 2016 Young Concert Artists International Auditions when he was just 15, and he’s since gone on to perform with the Seattle Symphony, Cleveland Orchestra and Minnesota Orchestra, as well as debuting at the Kennedy Center. Hear him play Bach’s Italian Concerto, BWF 971; Beethoven’s Piano Sonata No. 27 in E Minor, Op. 90; Chopin’s Scherzo No. 2 in B-flat Minor, Op. 31; and Schumann’s Carnaval, Op. 9. 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 24. Leo Rich Theater, 260 S. Church Ave. $30 adults, $10 students. Information.

Trails in Motion 7. It’s hard to beat the hiking to be found around Tucson, especially now that we’re in the cooler part of the year. If you’re looking to get even more engaged with the local trail hiking community, check out the 2019 Ledlenser “Trails In Motion” film festival coming to the Loft Cinema. The festival includes five films about the trail running community, and shows off the community and self-discovery to be found within. This is a rental of The Loft Cinema, presented by the Summit Hut and Arizona Trail Association. 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 24. 3233 E. Speedway Blvd. $15. Tickets available at aztrail.org. Information.

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Thursday, November 21, 2019

Posted By on Thu, Nov 21, 2019 at 12:04 PM

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Posted By on Thu, Nov 21, 2019 at 1:00 AM

click to enlarge Laughing Stock: O what fun!
Rod Wayne Housley on Facebook
Rod Housley magically turns mystery into comedy at the O.
Comedy magic for grownups

Forget Houdini. Magic doesn’t have to be about dark and dangerous arts. As Rod Housley tells it, all magic is about fooling people. He believes that fooling people should be fun to watch, and even more fun to be fooled.

Housley has entertained thousands at conventions and special events over the more than 20 years he’s performed as a professional magician around the country. He’s also won more than 20 awards in magic including Arizona’s Close-up Magician of the Year, Arizona’s Stage Magician of the Year, and the People’s Choice Award.

He will treat Tucson comedy fans to two unusually intimate club performances at 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday, Nov. 22 and 23 at The O. Reservations are $10 and $15 via intimatewonders.wellattended.com.

Housley began creating comedy magic as a child to cope with his sister’s death. “I kind of became the entertainer in my family,” he says. “Magic does the same thing comedy does. Telling a joke, there’s usually a left turn where you don't see it coming. It makes your brain fire in a new place. Magic creates that wonder. When you see something (surprising), people automatically laugh.”

Asked what makes him a magician's magician, Housley says his technique is like that of a standup comedian justifying the payoff to a joke. “I create a ‘why’ for every trick. Most magicians just do a trick and then they do another trick.

“I might do the trick a thousand times and then, suddenly, I'm like, ‘Oh! That's how I should present that. That will resonate with the audience’.

“I try to create magic that leaves the audience in a better place, where anything's possible and things are amazing and you're allowed to laugh. That's the childlike state of wonder that I think magic can create.”

Dreading Thanksgiving dinner?

The O’s Pre-Thanksgiving Extravaganza on Wednesday, Nov. 27 has some potential to stuff you with enough comedy that your uncle’s politics won’t give you indigestion. It’s worth a try.

Stephanie Lyonga lights up the lineup with electric energy and language unfit for reverent family holidays. Bilingual comedians Andrea Salazar and Tony Kanani Bruhn perform in English but make audience members feel at home in either language. Rounding out the show are Daryl Graves and two popular Phoenix comics, Glendon McGee and Derek McFarland.

The show starts at 7:30 p.m. and admission is $5 at the door.

What are you doing New Year’s?

Laffs Comedy Caffe is now taking reservations for folks wanting to welcome 2020 with a smile.

Ron Feingold headlines shows at 7 and 10:30 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 31. Reservations are $30 plus tax and tip. The 7 p.m. show includes dinner, and at the 10:30 show, a dessert buffet sustains revelers in the count down to the new year’s debut. May it give us all something to look forward to.

More Laughs!

Friday, Nov. 22: Politically musical Standup with Randy Rainbow at 7:30 p.m., Fox Tucson Theatre ($41.50 to $87.50). Country musical standup with Rodney Carrington at Desert Diamond Casino ($30 to $45). Standup with Greg Romero Wilson at new winter times, 7 and 9:30 p.m., Laffs Comedy Caffe ($12.50 and $17.50). Improv with Shatfan and The Lobbyists at 7:30 p.m. and The Soapbox at 9 p.m., Tucson Improv Movement (TIM)($5). Family-friendly improv with Not Burnt Out Just Unscrewed (NBOJU) at 7:30 p.m. and Fourth Friday Free Form Friday at 9 p.m., Unscrewed Theatre ($5 and $8).

Saturday, Nov. 23: Standup with Trevor Noah at 9:30 p.m., Tucson Music Hall ($47 to $93) and Greg Romero Wilson at 7 and 9:30 p.m., at Laffs Comedy Caffe ($12.50 and $17.50). Improv with Third Beats and Harold Omega at 7:30 p.m., and Pilot Season and Standup 101 at 9 p.m. at TIM ($5). Uncensored improv with NBOJU at 7:30 p.m. and uncensored Tellabration!, a nationwide event hosted in Tucson by Tellers of Tales at 9 p.m. at Unscrewed Theater ($5 and $8). High camp Retro Game Show Night, BattleMimes, at 7 p.m. at Club Congress ($12, Eventbrite).

Free Open Mics

Sunday, Nov. 17, 6:30 p.m., The O, and 8 p.m., Chuckleheads in Bisbee.
Monday, Nov. 18, 7 p.m., Comedy at the Wench, The Surly Wench Pub.
Tuesday, Nov. 19, 6:45 p.m., Neighborhood Comedy at The Music Box Lounge.
Wednesday, Nov 20, 7 p.m., The Screening Room and 8:30 p.m. at The Mint.
Thursday, Nov. 21, 8 p.m., Laffs Comedy Caffe and 8:30 p.m., Rockabilly Grill.

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