Category Archives: Entertainment

Announcing 2024 Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts series lineup at Frederik Meijer Gardens

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Greensky Bluegrass is racing to Meijer Gardens to perform for you! (Courtesy, FMG)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is pleased to announce the complete 2024 Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens lineup, featuring 33 unique shows.

This lineup reflects our continued commitment since 2003 to bringing a diverse array of internationally renowned artists to the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater. 

Black Pumas (Courtesy, Jody Domingue)

The Gardens and Sculpture Park, featuring works from internationally acclaimed artists, and lively acoustics create an intimate concert setting for guests of all ages. From its manicured general admission lawn seating to the ivy growing on the stage, the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater is the ideal summer setting for experiencing live music from world-class acts, right here in West Michigan.

Free and convenient on-site parking and the ability for concertgoers to bring a picnic or enjoy unique concessions offerings highlight the Meijer Gardens concert experience.

“We are delighted to present another summer of world-class live music in the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater,” said Charles Burke, President & CEO of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.

“We’re extremely thankful to the entire Meijer family, Fifth Third Bank, Harvey Lexus of Grand Rapids, Corewell Health, Grand Rapids Symphony, the Steve and Amy Van Andel Foundation, and all our partners for their commitment in helping make this series possible and allowing us to welcome more people to experience the arts at Meijer Gardens.”

NEW ticketing provider

Meijer Gardens is also happy to announce AXS as the new ticketing provider for the Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens series.

Orville Peck (Courtesy, FMG)

All tickets will be sold at AXS.com—and with AXS Mobile ID, your phone is your ticket. The move to AXS Mobile ID is designed to ensure a smooth purchasing experience, put tickets in the hands of our guests, and reduce ticket resale from unauthorized sites.

AXS Mobile ID is a digital ticketing technology that provides the flexibility and convenience of safely and securely managing tickets online or in the AXS mobile app.

AXS Mobile ID allows for convenience, flexibility, and security. Guests can manage tickets digitally, transfer tickets when needed, and remain assured that all tickets are authentic and secure. Guests are encouraged to set up an account at any time at AXS.com.

To help members and the public prepare for buying tickets, Meijer Gardens has created an Insider’s Guide to aid in making the ticket purchasing experience hassle-free.

Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens Lineup

Gate and show start times vary. Information and lineup subject to change. All shows take place rain or shine. Weather delays are possible.


Little Feat + Los Lobos (Courtesy, FMG)


Orville Peck with Durand Jones and Debbii Dawson, Wednesday, June 5: $57 presale |  $60 member |  $62 public

Greensky Bluegrass, Sunday, June 9: $68 presale |  $71 member |  $73 public

Tower of Power, Wednesday, June 12: $59 presale |  $62 member |  $64 public

O.A.R., Thursday, June 20: $82 presale |  $85 member  |  $87 public
Little Feat + Los Lobos, Friday, June 21: $75 presale |  $78 member  |  $80 public
Black Pumas with Abraham Alexander, Sunday, June 23: $80 presale |  $83 member  |  $85 public
Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue with Devon Gilfillian,
Monday, June 24: $75 presale |  $78 member  |  $80 public
Bonnie Raitt with James Hunter, Wednesday, June 26: $99 presale |  $102 member  |  $104 public
Mat Kearney with Donovan Frankenreiter, Sunday, June 30: $54 presale |  $57 member  |  $59 public
My Morning Jacket, Monday, July 1: $77 presale |  $80 member  |  $82 public
Amos Lee with Mikaela Davis, Wednesday, July 3: $65 presale |  $68 member  |  $70 public
Old Crow Medicine Show with Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway,
Wednesday, July 10: $67 presale |  $70 member  |  $72 public
Bruce Hornsby with Grand Rapids Symphony,
Thursday, July 11: $67 presale |  $70 member  |  $72 public
The Temptations + The Four Tops, Friday, July 12: $79 presale |  $82 member  |  $84 public
Jason Mraz, Wednesday, July 17: $95 presale |  $98 member  |  $100 public
The Wallflowers, Thursday, July 18: $45 presale |  $48 member  |  $50 public
Warren Haynes with Grand Rapids Symphony, Monday, July 22: $70 presale |  $73 member  |  $75 public
Charley Crockett, Wednesday, July 24: $60 presale |  $63 member  |  $65 public
Il Divo, Thursday, July 25: $69 presale |  $72 member  |  $74 public
Boyz II Men, Sunday, July 28: $130 presale |  $133 member  |  $135 public
Black Violin with Grand Rapids Symphony, Thursday, August 1: $65 presale |  $68 member  |  $70 public
Gin Blossoms + Toad the Wet Sprocket + Vertical Horizon,
Monday, August 5: $78 presale |  $81 member  |  $83 public
Kansas, Thursday, August 8: $79 presale |  $82 member  |  $84 public
Andrew Bird + Amadou & Mariam, Friday, August 9: $63 presale |  $66 member  |  $68 public
Five For Fighting, Sunday, August 11: $53 presale |  $56 member  |  $58 public
Blues Traveler + Big Head Todd and the Monsters,
Wednesday, August 14: $75 presale |  $78 member  |  $80 public
Grace Potter, Sunday, August 18: $55 presale |  $58 member  |  $60 public
Fitz and The Tantrums, Thursday, August 22: $55 presale |  $58 member  |  $60 public
Leslie Odom, Jr., Thursday, August 29: $70 presale |  $73 member  |  $75 public
Sierra Ferrell with Meredith Axelrod, Friday, September 6: $50 presale |  $53 member  |  $55 public
Michael Franti & Spearhead, Sunday, September 8: $65 presale |  $68 member  |  $70 public
Buena Vista Social Orchestra, Sunday, September 15: $50 presale |  $53 member  |  $55 public
Keb’ Mo’ + Shawn Colvin, Monday, September 16: $60 presale |  $63 member  |  $65 public

Members presale

Members may buy tickets during the members-only presale beginning 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 20, through midnight on Friday, April 26.

Grace Potter (Courtesy, Adrien Broom)

Members save $5 per ticket during the presale. After April 27, members save $2 per ticket. There is a limit of six tickets per show.

To join or renew a Meijer Gardens membership before April 20, click here or call the Membership Department at 616-977-7689.

Tickets can be purchased online at AXS.com. A $5 fee per ticket and 3% credit card fee per order is added.

Public ticket sale

Sales to the public begin at 9 am on Saturday, April 27. There is a limit of six tickets per show. Tickets can be purchased online at AXS.com. A $10 fee per ticket and 3% credit card fee per order is added.

Ticket purchasers are encouraged to receive and manage their tickets via the AXS mobile app. A $15 processing fee will be added for those who wish to have their tickets mailed to them by AXS. There will be a $6 processing fee for ticket purchasers who choose Will Call as their method of delivery.

Details about the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater

Leslie Odom Jr. (Courtesy, FMG)

The 1,900-seat Amphitheater Garden features general admission tiered lawn seating. Concertgoers are welcome to bring a blanket or low-rise chair to sit on. Low-rise chairs are defined as 12” maximum from front of seat bottom to ground and 32” maximum to top of chair back in highest position.

These rules are strictly enforced. No other chairs will be permitted in the venue. A limited number of standard-height chairs located in designated areas are available to rent for $10 on a first-come, first-served basis and may not be removed.

A selection of sandwiches, snacks, water, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are available at the Eileen DeVries Concessions Center. Concertgoers are also welcomed to bring their own food, sealed bottled water and nonalcoholic beverages in their original sealed non-glass containers. Soft-sided coolers that do not exceed 25 quarts or 14″x14″x14″ are permitted.

Weapons are not allowed. All guests, bags and coolers are subject to search prior to entering the venue.

Concert series sponsors and career opportunities

The Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens series is sponsored by Fifth Third Bank, Harvey Lexus of Grand Rapids, Corewell Health, Life EMS and US Golf Cars. Media sponsors are Star 105.7 and FOX17.

Join our team! Meijer Gardens has a variety of career openings, both full and part time. Please visit MeijerGardens.org/careers for a full listing of opportunities.

Get the best view of the total solar eclipse right here on WKTV Government Channel 26!

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(Courtesy, pxhere.com)



By Kelly Taylor

WKTV Program Coordinator

kelly@wktv.org


WKTV Government Channel 26 is offering live coverage of the upcoming total solar eclipse!

Tune in Monday, April 8 from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. and see this stunning solar display live from NASA’s view.

Experience this amazing event with us as a total solar eclipse moves across Mexico, the United States and Canada, and see incredible views from various sites along its path.

Coverage of the eclipse courtesy of NASA TV. For more information about the eclipse, go to www.nasa.gov.

Fans young and old meet Grand Rapids Gold basketball players at recent Fan Appreciation Night

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A young fan shows off his mini Gold basketball with autographs from Gold players (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)



By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Young and old fans alike were able to meet Grand Rapids Gold basketball players at a recent Fan Appreciation Night on March 30.

GR Gold players wrapped up the 2023-2024 season with a game against Capital City Go-Go at the Van Andel Arena.

(Courtesy, Matthew Reed)

Fans received a free Gold pendant on a chain, presented by Founders Brewing Co. during their Gold Chain Giveaway.

After the game, Gold players lined up down the length of the court and signed autographs for fans.

Join the Gold excitement!

The Official NBA G League Affiliate of the Denver Nuggets, GR Gold provides ample opportunities for fans to enjoy the excitement of basketball. Fans can purchase tickets through a variety of options including season ticket memberships, 6-game plans, group packages and single-game tickets.

(Courtesy, Matthew Reed)

GR Gold also hosts an annual summer camp, the Grand Rapids Gold Basketball Academy, for interested youth. Registration for the 2024 summer camp can be found here.

For more Grand Rapids Gold information and events, click here.

Join the Solar Eclipse viewing party at Grand Rapids Public Museum on Monday, April 8!

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By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


(Courtesy photo)

A celestial phenomenon will sweep across North America and the Northern Midwest on Monday, April 8, 2024 – and Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) is inviting visitors to join them inside and outside the Museum for an eclipse viewing party.

Supported by WOOD TV8, this event will feature live streams from the path of totality on the Meijer Theatre with commentary from Museum staff, a special planetarium show schedule, astronomy-themed activities with community partners, and access to solar telescopes on the Blue Bridge with the Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association (GRAA).

What is a solar eclipse?

An eclipse is defined as a phenomenon where the moon passes in front of the sun, blocking it completely and casting a shadow onto our planet.

Two things need to occur at once to see a solar eclipse: the sun, moon, and earth need to be in a straight line, with the moon between the sun and earth; and you need to be standing in the correct spot on earth.

What you need to know

(Courtesy, GRPM)

All eclipse events inside the GRPM are free with general admission. Telescope access along the Blue Bridge is free to the public.

Protective eyewear is necessary to view the eclipse safely. Eclipse glasses are available for purchase in The Curiosity Shop while supplies last for $1.75. The Curiosity Shop is open to the public, no admission required.

Don’t miss this opportunity!

(Courtesy, Amanda Pitts)

April 8 will be the last chance to witness an eclipse this close to Michigan for decades.

Observe the awe of a total solar eclipse as it graces North America, journeying from Mexico, cutting through states like Texas, Oklahoma, and reaching 100% coverage in Ohio and Indiana, before continuing through the Northeast and entering Canada.

Find GRPM Total Eclipse Day viewing party and event details here.

Find more solar eclipse information and GIF animations here.

Upcoming comedy show to celebrate Women’s History Month on March 3

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Celebrate seven funny women at SNF’s special March show! (Courtesy, Brian B. SNF)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


The second annual March Women’s History Month comedy show, presented by The Sunday Night Funnies (SNF), is set for Sunday, March 3.

“The Sunday Night Funnies has always been a diverse show,” says Brian B., MC and Founder of the SNF. “I wanted to celebrate the contribution women comedians have brought to the show through the years.”

Brian B. went on to say that, locally, women performing standup comedy was rare.

“Over the course of the last few years, that number has been steadily growing,” Brian B. says. “We’re featuring seven extremely funny women comics for this show.”

The lineup

The March 3 special performance will feature Grand Rapids comedian Kim Cook, a Second City alumni and semifinalist in the 2022 Kingpin of Comedy competition; Nicole Melnyk, voted Lansing’s Best Comic three times; Lauren Corbett; Cheryl Stoner; Amanda VK; and SNF first-timers Lucky Lee and Cinda DeBolt.


  • Lucky Lee (Courtesy, SNF)
  • Kim Cook (Courtesy, SNF)
  • Cheryl Stoner (Courtesy, SNF)
  • Amanda VK (Courtesy, SNF)
  • Cinda DeBolt (Courtesy, SNF)
  • Lauren Corbett (Courtesy, SNF)
  • Nicole Melnyk (Courtesy, SNF)

Mark your calendars for upcoming SNF events!

The following Sunday, March 10, is SNF’s annual LaughFest show. Comics 50+ will celebrate Older American Month with a show on Sunday, May 5. Soon after will be the start of SNF’s sixth annual Kingpin of Comedy competition.

About SNF

The creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. (Brian Borbot), the SNF is a weekly live stand-up comedy performance featuring a variety of comics from Michigan and around the country.

The free admission show starts at 7:30 p.m. and is performed at the Spectrum Entertainment Complex in Wyoming, MI.

LaughFest is accepting volunteers for March festival – register by Feb. 16!

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By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Gilda’s LaughFest is in need of volunteers to support the 2024 festival set for March 6-10.

Volunteer Registration

Volunteers can help in numerous ways leading up to and during the festival. There is no minimum requirement regarding amount of time or number of events needed to volunteer.

General volunteers can help with ushering, ticket-taking collecting donations, and wayfinding. Specialized volunteers are needed to photograph events (Photo Team); run audio, video and lights (Production Team); move supplies and people (Transportation Team); and more.

Those interested in volunteering can register at laughfestgr.org/volunteer/. New and returning volunteers can register through Feb. 16. Orientation will be provided for all volunteers on Feb. 17.

LaughFest 2024 Details

Shows and entertainers announced for the 14th annual LaughFest include: Tammy Pescatelli, Josh Johnson, Piff the Magic Dragon, Demetri Martin, and returning festival favorite – the Clean Comedy Showcase.


LaughFest 2024 includes over 40 free and ticketed shows in Grand Rapids, Holland, Lowell and Wayland’s Gun Lake Casino.

LaughFest individual tickets are available for purchase at laughfestgr.org, and at Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids pop-up LaughFest stores from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Feb. 17 and March 2.

Proceeds from LaughFest and LaughFest’s High Five campaign support the free cancer and grief emotional health program offered through Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids.

World of Winter: Largest winter festival in U. S. right in our own backyard

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World of Winter boasts several activities for all ages to enjoy! (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


World of Winter (WoW), the largest winter festival in the United States, is in our own backyard of Grand Rapids until March 10!

Open daily from 8 a.m. – 11 p.m., the WoW festival takes place throughout downtown Grand Rapids.

Various art installations tantalizing the mind and imagination using sound, lights, towering sculptures and inflatables.

Some installations are light-based and night-based: Plan your visit accordingly.

A scavenger hunt, walking tours, music, games, painting and craft workshops, and a Mardi Gras Glow Sidewalk Parade are a few WoW offerings.


Large and colorful frog inflatables with informational plaques are located in front of the Ford Museum (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

WoW hotspots include:

  • Ah-Nab-Awen Park
  • 555 Monroe
  • Canal Park
  • Sixth Street Park

For a complete calendar of events, click here.

Transportation

The Rapid transit system provides a seamless bus network connecting visitors to and from downtown Grand Rapids.

DASH offers free rides around downtown every 15 minutes. Download the ‘Transit‘ app for the nearest stop and real-time info.

Area 9 Parking is also available for just $3 a day, and offer use of a free shuttle.


Many installations have lights that give a different look and feel to the exhibit during night hours (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Accessibility

It is advised to refer to each individual event for accessibility information.

Crowd sizes fluctuate and may impede visibility of certain installations for individuals with mobility issues. Most locations provide sidewalk accessibility. However, some installations are in park areas without pavement pathways. Please use caution during your visit.

WoW continues to work to make the festival experience as accessible as possible for all visitors, and are looking at accessibility improvements for the 2025 WoW festival.


Plan your visit ahead of time so you don’t miss out on any fun activities or art installations (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Snow gear tips

Elevate your WoW experience by being prepared with winter essentials! See the recommended list of gear from the WoW team.

This list is recommended but not required to attend or enjoy the festival.

Snow gear checklist:

  • Base Layers like leggings or long sleeved shirts (Wool/Silk/Polypropylene over Cotton)
  • Snow Pants (or a pair of pants over your bottom base layers)
  • Water Resistant Coat
  • Water Resistant Boots
  • Hat, Gloves, Scarves

The Sunday Night Funnies’ annual Black History Month comedy show set for Feb. 4

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(Courtesy, Brian B.)



By WKTV Staff


The Sunday Night Funnies (SNF) second annual Black History Month show set for Sunday, Feb. 4.

“The Sunday Night Funnies has always been a diverse show,” said MC and SNF Founder Brian B. (Brian Borbot). “When putting together the lineup each week, I try to have a good mix of comedians-be it race, gender, or age-range. I think our audience appreciates that.

“I wanted to celebrate the contribution Black comedians have brought to the show through the years.”

The special show features six comics: Brianna Blackburn, a local favorite who has been part of several LaughFest shows; Sunday Night Funnies’ Kingpin of Comedy competition finalists JT Motley, Marcus Cusic and Silas Haley; Dionte Allen from Ohio; and Michael Chandler, a relative newcomer to the local scene.


  • Brianna Blackburn (Courtesy, Brian B.)
  • Michael Chandler (Courtesy, Brian B.)
  • Dionte Allen (Courtesy, Brian B.)
  • Silas Haley (Courtesy, Brian B.)
  • Marcus Cusic (Courtesy, Brian B.)
  • JT Motley (Courtesy, Brian B.)

But wait – there’s more!

“The Sunday Night Funnies has got a big 2024 planned,” said Brian B. “In addition to the Black History Month show, March 3 will feature a special all-women comedian show in honor of Women’s History Month.”

The following Sunday, March 10 is the SNF’s LaughFest show. Sunday, May 5 will be a celebration of Older American Month featuring comics ages 50 and up. Then begins the sixth annual Kingpin of Comedy competition.

About the SNF

The Sunday Night Funnies is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B.

A weekly live stand-up comedy performance featuring a variety of comics from Michigan and around the country, the SNF is a free admission show that starts at 7:30 p.m. and is performed at the Spectrum Entertainment Complex.

Sleeping Beauty: Grand Rapids Ballet to perform cherished classical ballet, host princess birthday celebration

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Sleeping Beauty (Courtesy, Kansas City Ballet / Brett Pruitt & East Market Studios)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Experience the enchanting allure of the classical ballet, Sleeping Beauty. Grand Rapids Ballet will perform the cherished tale at DeVos Performance Hall Feb. 23-25.

A traditional tale come to life

Sleeping Beauty shares the traditional tale of Princess Aurora.

From her birth, a curse by the evil fairy Carabosse foretells Aurora’s demise on her sixteenth birthday. Aurora enters a profound slumber, only to be awakened by true love’s kiss, as orchestrated by the benevolent Lilac Fairy.

(Courtesy, Kansas City Ballet / Brett Pruitt & East Market Studios)

With Devon Carney’s exquisite choreography that pays homage to Marius Petipa, the production will be accompanied by a live Grand Rapids Symphony performance of Tchaikovsky’s exceptional score.

Gorgeous costumes, sumptuous sets, and breathtaking dancing are a hallmark of this family-friendly classical ballet performance.

Come and celebrate!

In addition to the ballet, Sleeping Beauty’s Birthday Party will be held on Feb. 25 at DeVos Performance Hall.

(Courtesy, Kansas City Ballet / Brett Pruitt & East Market Studios)

The memorable royal gathering will be held from 12-1 p.m. Party guests can create enchanted crafts to take home, enjoy sweet treats, and meet Grand Rapids Ballet’s Sleeping Beauty.

Party wear, crowns and sparkles are encouraged to help celebrate Princess Aurora’s sweet sixteen.

Save your seat at the party by signing up now!

Tickets for the Sleeping Beauty ballet can be found here.

Immersive full-dome concert experience coming to Grand Rapids Public Museum

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West Michigan’s underground music scene staple, “Concerts Under the Stars,” is back and promises unforgettable performances (Courtesy, GRPM)


By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Attendees will be treated to a one-of-a-kind immersive concert experience (Courtesy, GRPM)

Get ready for an unforgettable sonic journey as “Concerts Under the Stars” returns to Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM).

Curated by the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium, “Concerts Under the Stars” is an immersive full-dome concert experience highlighting local musicians and visual artists.

Local West Michigan bands will perform their music, enhanced by original video art projected onto the Planetarium’s 50-foot dome. Upcoming local visual artists collaborate with the musicians to weave together an exclusive concert experience.

First to take the stage

GRPM is kicking off the 2024 series on Jan. 11 and 12 with Silent Spirit, a Grand Rapids electronic music sensation. Silent Spirit combines synthesis and contemplative rhythms to create organic atmospheres and reflective environments.

Performances will be accompanied by a full-dome visual display presented by local artist, iVy Garvey.

Attendees are invited to explore their inner selves and imagine themselves immersed in a world drawn from inspiration of the natural world.

Must-know details

Each show begins at 7:30 p.m. with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. Visitors are invited to explore the Museum’s first two floors of exhibits during the cocktail hour before the concert.

Visitors can grab a drink and explore the first two floors of GRPM before the concerts (Courtesy, GRPM)

Performers will play two sets with a short intermission in between. Refreshments, beer, and other beverages will be available for purchase.

Parking is available through GVSU and the Museum’s parking ramp and will be validated for GRPM parking ramp guests.

Tickets are $20, with discounted pricing of $16 for GRPM members. Children must attend with an adult.

Details for February and March performances can be found here.

*Please be aware that shows may contain bright lights or dizzying visuals.

Local author Chavonne Mateen reveals heart behind fantasy novel set to be released Dec. 19

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WKTV Managing Editor Deborah Reed went behind the scenes with author Chavonne Mateen and her debut novel, Shaylah Marston and the Rogue Roots, on WKTV Soundbites (Courtesy, WKTV)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


(Courtesy Photo)

Local author Chavonne Mateen will be launching her debut fantasy novel, Shaylah Marston and the Rogue Roots, on Tuesday, Dec. 19.

Set in an urban magical realm, Mateen’s middle grade novel contains everything the author loves about the fantasy genre – and about life.

“I have always been a huge fan of fantasy fiction,” said Mateen, adding that the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling and the Children of Blood and Bone series by Tomi Adeyemi are among her favorite reads.

When not writing, Mateen fills her time as an HR Technologist for HRIS Streamline Consulting, is an Associate Integration Consultant for iCIMS, and is a self-professed serial entrepreneur.

Already living a life busy with the HR works she loves, this reporter couldn’t resist asking Mateen about the driving force behind her desire to pen a novel.

Living life to the fullest

“People go on journeys in life,” said Mateen. “One day I was writing down things I wanted to accomplish. Starting a business was one, finishing school was another, and writing a rap.

“The next one was to write a book. That’s how this was born.”

Mateen talked with WKTV Managing Editor Deborah Reed about what lies at the heart of her debut novel (Courtesy, WKTV)

Not only did Mateen decide to write a book, she decided to create something groundbreaking that was also relatable.

Mateen wanted to write what she deemed was missing in the fantasy genre – a series featuring a beautiful, strong and present family that sticks together.

“I decided that I wanted to write something that I could relate to,” said Mateen. “This is more in an urban setting, and it’s characters that I can relate to.”

Shaylah’s journey is one of self-discovery.

Suddenly inundated with nightly visions of her deceased grandfather, Shaylah begins asking her mother some hard questions. As long-kept family secrets are revealed, the young teen realizes that she also holds magical powers and abilities.

Mateen chats about Shaylah Marston merchandise and fan art (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“When they begin telling her these secrets, that’s when the story begins to unfold and the magic occurs,” said Mateen.

The young heroine embarks on a mission with her family and friends, intent on saving a distant world and restoring her family’s name.

With a diverse cast of characters and a relatable and inspiring protagonist, Shaylah Marston and the Rogue Roots weaves powerful themes of friendship, courage and self-discovery throughout its pages.

Deemed “an exhilarating coming-of-age extravaganza” and “unapologetic fantasy fiction at its finest” by beta readers, Mateen’s novel will transport readers to a world brimming with adventure.

Interested readers can visit Mateen’s website to pre-order a copy of the novel, sign up for notifications regarding Shaylah Marston events and news, and purchase Shaylah Marston merchandise.

But Mateen isn’t stopping there.

Big screen goals

Bringing Shaylah Marston to the big screen as a Netflix series is a goal Mateen is already working to set in motion.

“That’s the ultimate goal, to bring it to the big screen, bring it to life, and bring the awareness to Grand Rapids that we do have offerings and more creatives in this space,” said Mateen.

Expanding worlds, chasing dreams

Mateen is currently working on the second Shaylah Marston novel (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Mateen plans to expand Shaylah Marston’s world through writing, though she admits that the writing process is not always easy.

“I’ve experienced roadblocks, setbacks, tumbles and stumbles,” said Mateen.

But she doesn’t let that stop her, and she encourages others to push through those difficulties as well.

“Just continue to write,” said Mateen. “Pick up that pen. If you don’t have a pen, pick up your phone. Jot those ideas down. You can always revisit and expand on it, but you have to start somewhere and keep at it because it’s a work in progress.

“It’s not going to always be perfect. But continue pressing forward.”

To learn more about Shaylah Marston and the Rogue Roots, visit the Shaylah Marston website and Facebook page.

GRAMMY Award-winning Blind Boys of Alabama will take the stage at St. Cecilia Music Center Dec. 5

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Renowned worldwide, Blind Boys of Alabama are living legends of gospel music (Courtesy Photo)



By WKTV Staff


The 5-time GRAMMY Award-winning band is coming to West Michigan (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Living legends of gospel music Blind Boys of Alabama will perform their Christmas Show on Tuesday, Dec. 5 at 7:30 p.m. in the St. Cecilia Music Center (SCMC) Royce Auditorium.


From their GRAMMY® Award-winning 2004 Go Tell It on the Mountain and 2014 Talkin’ Christmas albums, this holiday performance has thrilled sell-out audiences across the United States.


Executive & Artistic Director of SCMC Cathy Holbrook says, “We are so excited to present the 5-time GRAMMY® Award-winning Blind Boys of Alabama in concert at SCMC this holiday season! Royce Auditorium will be filled with joy during their performance on December 5.”

Raising roofs and crossing boundaries

The Blind Boys of Alabama perform live shows that are roof-raising musical events that appeal to audiences of all cultures. The Blind Boys are known for crossing multiple musical boundaries with their remarkable interpretations of everything from traditional gospel favorites to contemporary spiritual material.


Since the original members first sang together as kids at the Alabama Institute for the Negro Blind in the late 1930s, the band has persevered through seven decades to become one of the most recognized and decorated roots music groups in the world.


“Seeing the Blind Boys of Alabama in concert is part living history, part concert, all uplifting experience…the best moments come when the group join forces for stirring harmonies,” claims The Washington Post.

Achieving dreams and world recognition

The Blind Boys’ career spans over 75 years (Courtesy Photo)

The Blind Boys’ music has not only endured, but thrived during seven decades of world events and is recognized worldwide as living legends and modern-day innovators.


Band members Jimmy “Jimster” Carter, Ricky McKinnie, Paul Beasley, Rev. Julius Love, newest addition Sterling Glass, and led by Music Director and lead guitarist Joey Williams helped create a new gospel sound for the 21st century.


Celebrated by The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (NARAS) with Lifetime Achievement Awards, and inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, Blind Boys of Alabama are also winners of five GRAMMY® Awards.


Tickets for The Blind Boys of Alabama Christmas Show are $60, $45 and $30 at scmcgr.org or by calling 616-459-2224.

Circle Theatre 2024 season tickets available now!

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Local History, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , ,
Season tickets for the Circle Theatre 2024 productions are now on sale (Courtesy, Circle Theatre)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Circle Theatre in Grand Rapids celebrates 2024 with their 71st season of Main Stage productions and Summer Concert Series.

Dedicated to enriching the quality of life in West Michigan, Circle Theatre uses an intimate setting and exceptional theatrical arts to educate and entertain.

(Courtesy, Circle Theatre)

The only community theatre in West Michigan specializing in summer theatre, the Theatre allows community performers of all ages to hone their craft. The Theatre also provides employment for directors, choreographers, musicians, designers and technicians.

Circle Theatre boasts more than 300 loyal volunteers and employs approximately 127 local independent contractors annually. Circle also provides nine paid internships to college students, three college scholarships, and arts scholarships to children grades PreK-8 each year. An Environmental Leadership contest for ages 6-14 is also available.

How it all began

Grand Rapids Community Summer Theatre, also known as Circle at the Rowe, was founded in 1952 by Norma Brink, Ted Brink and Sydney Spayde. Its first season was held in 1953.

The Rowe Hotel housed the Theatre for eight years. Due to the shape of the rented room, the play performance area was arena-style with the audience seated around the actors.

Over the years, Circle moved to various other locations, finally finding a home at the Pavilion in John Ball Park for 40 years. Growing audiences and a need for more technically adequate facilities, Circle Theatre searched for a new home and found a partnership with Catholic Secondary Schools and Aquinas College, opening of a new Performing Arts Center at the College in 2003.

Purchasing tickets

Tickets for the 2024 season can be purchased online at circletheatre.org, the box office at 616-456-6656, or in person at the box office (1703 Robinson Road SE, Grand Rapids).

Local comedy competition enters final round Oct. 29, offers diverse lineup of comics

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SNF’s Kingpin of Comedy competition enters its final round Oct. 29 with the final nine comedians (Brian B. SNF)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

The original lineup of 91 comedians is now down to nine as the Sunday Night Funnies Kingpin of Comedy competition enters its final round Sunday, Oct. 29.

“We have a good mix of comedians performing in the finals this year,” says Brian B., MC and
founder of the Sunday Night Funnies (SNF). “The Grand Rapids metro area is obviously represented,
but we also have a comic from Niles, Michigan, one from Detroit – even one from Canada!

Sunday Night Funnies presents Kingpin of Comedy competition (Courtesy, Brian B. SNF)

The lineup is diverse too. Not only in terms of race, but age-range as well with comedians in their 20s up to sixty years old.”

Along with the nine competing comics, comedian Seth Lee – the 2022 Kingpin of Comedy winner – will close the show while votes are counted.

“Seeing that Wyoming is the 14th largest city in Michigan, I thought that the eventual winner deserved a prize package worthy of the title Most Humorous Person In Town,” said Brian B. “The package includes prizes from local businesses including Craig’s Cruisers, LaughFest, Midtown GR, and from the host of the show Spectrum Entertainment Complex.

“The winner will also receive $500 cash, a tricked-out bowling pin trophy and a personalized Kingpin bowling shirt. The total prize package is valued close to $1,000.”

The SNF is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. A weekly live stand-up comedy performance, SNF features a variety of comics from Michigan and across the country.

SNF performances are a free admission shows beginning at 7:30 p.m. and performed at the Spectrum Entertainment Complex, 5656 Clyde Park SW, in Wyoming.

WKTV 25 to air RECLAIMIMG Their VOICE documentary by Emmy Award-winning filmmaker

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Dorothy Fadiman’s film follows Native American communities as they fight against injustice (Courtesy of Alice Fernandez-Ahmie)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Fadiman’s film includes several personal stories from diverse backgrounds (Courtesy, Concentric Media)

Oscar-nominated and Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Dorothy Fadiman’s latest documentary has been coined “captivating” and “eyeopening.”

Narrated by Peter Coyote, RECLAIMING Their VOICE: The Native American Vote in New Mexico and Beyond follows Native Americans in New Mexico who are taking a stand against injustice in the political process.

WKTV will air Fadiman’s 42-minute insightful documentary on WKTV 25 Monday, Oct. 9 at 2 p.m., Wednesday, Oct.11 at 2:30 p.m. and Thursday, Oct. 12 at 7 p.m.

“A moving work of art…”

Fadiman’s film has been described as both “heartbreaking” and “eyeopening” by Nancy Stapp of KVOT, New Mexico. “A ‘must see’ to understand how fragile our democracy is and how important it is that we stay awake and be informed,” said Stapp.

Personal stories demonstrate how minority communities are using their voting rights as they participate more fully in elections. These stories capture the growing awareness and activism taking root across the United States.

Each segment of the film depicts challenges faced by Native communities, actions taken to protect their rights, and outcomes of their efforts.

What viewers can expect

The Indian Citizenship Act of 1924 stipulated that Native Americans born in the United States were automatically citizens by birth (Courtesy, Concentric Media)

Along with the historical chronicling of the Native American suffrage movement, the documentary follows the Laguna Pueblo’s groundbreaking project that led to significant positive changes in New Mexico state election law.

RECLAIMING Their VOICE also documents The Pueblo Revolt (1680), Wounded Knee (1890), The Sacred Alliance for Grassroots Equality’s (SAGE) fight to protect the sacred art of the Petroglyph National Monument, the passage of legislation to ensure greater election security for Native Americans, and the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People.

Fadiman’s work has been hailed as a model for how other minority populations can work together to gain political justice, and won the Best New Mexico Film Award at the Duke City Doc Festival in 2010.

Local Black business owners unveil heart behind their businesses in Pitch Black Grand Rapids competition Sept. 28

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The Michigan Small Business Development Center presents Pitch Black Grand Rapids, a pitch competition for Black business owners (Courtesy, MI-SBDC)

By Deborah Reed

deborah@wktv.org

In an effort to uplift the Black business community, the Michigan Small Business Development Center (MI-SBDC) has announced a Grand Rapids pitch competition on Thursday, Sept. 28.

The Pitch Black competition began in 2021 in response to the detrimental effects the COVID-19 pandemic had on Black-owned businesses in Muskegon County. Pitch Black is now coming to Grand Rapids and will focus on Black-owned businesses operating in Kent County.

Business owners will have a chance to present their pitch to a panel of judges for a chance at a cash prize (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)

“It’s sort of like Shark Tank meets America’s Got Talent,” explained Ed Garner, West Michigan Regional Director for the MI-SBDC. “It will be on an auditorium stage in a game show style fashion.”

Twenty Black business owners were selected from a pool of applicants to be Pitch Black contestants. All contestants received pitch training in preparation for a preliminary round presentation to a panel of Black Judges.

Five to seven contestants will then be chosen as finalists and pitch for their share of $10,000 in front of a live studio audience.

“It’s our way of uplifting the Black business community and is part of our DEI initiative called Uplift Michigan™, a strategic movement designed to ensure equitable access for all diverse entrepreneurs across Michigan,” said Garner.

Bringing culture and personal awareness

Bertina Polk, owner of My Little Love Bugs Childcare LLC, applied for Pitch Black to bring awareness to early childhood education in the African American culture.

Polk remembers being teased because of the darkness of her skin, kinkiness of her hair, and her broad nose.

“It always made me wonder if I was good enough,” said Polk.

Seeing her own traumatic childhood memories repeated in following generations of children as young as preschool age bothered Polk.

Bertina Polk’s childcare business teaches children to have confidence in who they are (Courtesy, Bertina Polk)

“It hurts my heart that these babies are going to school not knowing who they are, the importance of their existence, their value, and being proud of their culture and the skin they are in,” said Polk. “I pride myself on the fact that my daycare has a strong emphasis and focus on making sure that our children know that their black is beautiful.”

Polk does this by building a daily childcare routine that focuses on self-awareness, self-confidence, and self-esteem.

“Childhood trauma can turn into adulthood trauma,” said Polk. “Being hurtful and mean to children can ruin self-esteem in the very early stages of life.”

Whether Polk is a winner of a cash prize or not, she considers it a blessing to bring awareness to issues that young African American children encounter. She is also thankful for the opportunity to gather information that will help her grow her business.

“I’ve learned a lot after doing research about the African American culture and how it affects our children in the Early Childhood stages,” said Polk.

If Polk receives a cash prize, she plans to use it to move and expand her childcare facility.

Having located the building she wants for the new facility, Polk is already working with other agencies to provide funding for a playground, educational materials for children, as well as training for staff.

“This will give me the opportunity to grow from the family group daycare into a center, and I’ll be able to provide more services to our community and our African American children,” said Polk.

More than just a business

Reggie Macon, owner of martial arts school Battle Ground JKD LLC, joined the Pitch Black competition after it was suggested to him by a client.

At Battle Ground, Reggie Macon (center) is focused on helping women and children defend themselves (Courtesy, Reggie Macon)

“Of course, the [prize] money sounds good, but I was also intrigued by the information I could potentially get from [the competition],” said Macon. “If anything, I can get some great information on how I can move forward with the business.”

Macon’s primary objective, however, is to share his passion of martial arts with youth and women.

Macon founded Battle Ground out of a desire to keep his two daughters safe. Having recognized and researched the dangers of human trafficking, Macon is focused on using his 17 years of personal training experience to help others learn how to protect themselves.

“I started out training my daughters and training a couple of kids out of my garage, and it kind of went from a passion to something I can see myself doing as a living,” said Macon.

Battle Ground features classes for youth, women’s self-defense, strike classes for MMA boxers, and Sweat It Out Saturdays – a co-ed group of various ages geared toward participants attending with a friend or partner to gain accountability in their weight loss goals.

With countless self-defense and martial arts schools available to the public, Macon differentiates himself by being more hands-on than most.

All ages are welcome at Battle Ground martial arts school (Courtesy, Reggie Macon)

“It’s not just technique and that’s it,” said Macon. “I teach how to read body language, situational awareness, how to create separation to escape in certain instances, and how to build confidence in oneself to know that just because I know how to fight doesn’t mean I have to. I can walk away confidently enough to know I won’t have to cause any harm.”

During the course of the Pitch Black competition training, Macon feels the information contestants have received has been helpful in showing how and what they can apply to their businesses.

“It’s been great information throughout the competition.”

Macon hopes to purchase more safety equipment for the gym if he wins a cash prize, and also to increase marketing for Battle Ground.


“Hopefully Battle Ground will be a household name pretty soon,” Macon said.

Showcase and competition details you don’t want to miss

A business and resource showcase will be held before the competition (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)

Prior to the Pitch Black competition there will also be a business and resource showcase featuring all 20 contestants as well as selected organizations that support Black-owned businesses.

The competition and showcase will take place Thursday, Sept. 28 in Loosemore Auditorium at Grand Valley State University’s DeVos Center, 401 W. Fulton Street in Grand Rapids. The showcase opens at 5 p.m. and the competition begins at 6:30 p.m.

Three cash prizes will be presented by the Richard M. and Helen DeVos Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation at GVSU. The Grand Prize is $5,000, with a 2nd place prize of $3,500, and a 3rd place prize of $1,500. The prize money can be used for any legitimate business purpose.

This event is free and open to the public, but registration is encouraged due to space limitations. All audience members are asked to dress in casual black attire.

For more information or to register, visit https://michigansbdc.org/pitch-black-gr/.

Minority-led ballet company Ballet 5:8 to present BareFace dance production in Grand Rapids Oct. 7

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Ballet 5:8 will present the dance production BareFace at the DeVos Center for Arts and Worship during Hispanic Heritage Month (Courtesy, Ballet 5:8)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

BareFace is a fresh and enthralling dance production that delves deep into thought-provoking themes and evocative storytelling.

Ballet 5:8, a female and minority-led Chicago ballet company, will present BareFace at the DeVos Center for Arts and Worship during Hispanic Heritage Month on Oct. 7 at 7:00 p.m.

The complexities of human existence

Inspired by the ancient myth of Cupid and Psyche, choreographer Julianna Rubio Slager tells a female-driven, utterly compelling story of love, jealousy, and a case against the gods.

Rubio Slager’s choreography portrays the power of human connection and relationships (Courtesy, Ballet 5:8)

The dancers embody the complexities of human existence, peeling away societal expectations to confront their true selves. Through Rubio Slager’s innovative choreography, the journey of self-discovery unfolds on stage, inviting audiences to reflect on their own identities and the masks they wear.

The power of human connection and relationships takes center stage in BareFace. Just as Cupid and Psyche longed for each other, the dancers’ movements intertwine and interact, portraying the intricacies of love, longing, and the universal desire for connection.

“With technical precision and graceful beauty,” writes Kathy D. Hey from Third Coast Review, “the talented artists of Ballet 5:8’s dance company convey a range of emotions, from moments of grief and longing to lighter moments of comedy.”

A captivating story that embraces the transformative power of vulnerability and authenticity, BareFace challenges us to confront our own masks and delve into the rawness of our emotions. Set in the Grecian fairytale world of Glome, the production captivates with its cinematic storytelling, sweeping stage pictures, and gliding sets.

A lasting impact

BareFace showcases Rubio Slager’s choreography that, as described by D’onminique Boyd-Riley from See Chicago Dance, “Flows like chimes, leaving an enduring impact long after the wind has passed. The performance is nothing short of phenomenal.”

Dancers rehearse a previous Ballet 5:8 production. (Courtesy, Ballet 5:8)

The athletic prowess of Ballet 5:8’s dance artists, along with the work of costume designer Lorianne Robertson, scenic designers Sarah L. Freeman and Graham Louthan, and projections by Sarah L. Freeman and Julianna Rubio Slager, bring this full-length story ballet to life.

Artistic Director, Co-Founder and Chicano Resident Choreographer Julianna Rubio Slager co-founded Ballet 5:8 in 2012. She is known for engaging audiences in discussions of life and faith through exquisite choreography, and for empowering minority women to command space in the professional ballet scene.

Since its founding in 2012, Ballet 5:8 has presented more than 45 critically acclaimed ballets, engaging and captivating communities in Chicago, the Midwest and across the nation.

For more information about Ballet 5:8, visit Ballet58.org and connect on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube.

Ticket pricing and links

Tiered single tickets are available ranging from $15 to $45 based on seating and available online at: https://www.ballet58.org/calendar/bareface-gr. Specific children, student and senior ticket prices are available. For groups of 10 or more adults, patrons can use the code: B58GROUP to redeem $5 off each ticket.

Sunday Night Funnies competition draws large crowds for standup comedians

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The 5th annual Kingpin of Comedy competition is in full swing and is packing the house (Courtesy, Brian B. SNF)

By Deborah Reed

deborah@wktv.org

The 5th annual Kingpin of Comedy competition at Sunday Night Funnies (SNF) is delivering weekly standup comedy routines and drawing large crowds.

From here, there, and everywhere

Located at Woody’s Press Box inside the Spectrum Entertainment Complex, SNF is a free admission weekly standup comedy show that is geared toward featuring comedians from around the Midwest. However, Brian B. has had several comedians travel from out of state to participate.

Kingpin of Comedy previous winners (Courtesy, Brian B. SNF)


Brian B. remembers comedians driving up from Alabama just to do the show. “They did it for the trip experience. I picked up a woman at the airport who flew in from New Jersey to do the show,” Brian B. added.

SNF regularly draws comics from Detroit, Chicago, and Toledo, with the Kingpin of Comedy competition featuring a comedian from Canada.

Brian B. said many comics are willing to do a routine “for the stage time and to perform before a good-sized audience. It’s a very low-key, low-budget kind of thing.”

Voting system encourages audience participation

A comedian himself, Brian B. opens each show and serves as emcee.

With only three more quarterfinal rounds, the competition will soon be moving into three weeks of semifinals, with finals taking place Sunday, Oct. 29.

Sunday Night Funnies’s 2022 Kingpin of Comedy winner Seth Lee holds his winnings (Courtesy, Brian B. SNF)

The Kingpin of Comedy winner will be determined with a voting system, so the audience is encouraged to participate.

Audience members are given a ballot at the beginning of the show – the only requirement is that they vote for three comics, “no more, no less.”

This helps ensure that the comics work to win over the entire audience, not just friends they bring along, Brian B. explained.

As for comedic content, Brian B. said adult situations and swearing do occur.

“It’s not a clean comedy show, and I don’t bill it as that,” said Brian B.

“I don’t censor the comics,” Brian B. continued. “That is a slippery slope and I won’t do that. [Content] is subjective – you don’t know what offends people and what doesn’t offend people.”

Filling a comedic void

Brian B. began SNF to fill a gap for local comedians.

“At the time, the only place local comics could get face-time was Dr. Grins, and that was only on Thursday nights,” Brian B. said. “They’d get three-minutes of time and could only perform every three months. There was a void that needed to be filled for local comedians.”

That void has been filled with approximately 1,200 different SNF comics over the years.

Sunday Night Funnies presents the 5th annual Kingpin of Comedy competition, now in full swing (Courtesy, Brian B. SNF)

The SNF stage has found a home at several different locations since its inception in 2008, with the first being in Douglas, MI. Shortly after, however, Brian B. wanted to bring the show closer to home.

He approached Bob Sullivan, who was owner of the Radisson Hotel on Ann Street in Grand Rapids at the time. A partnership was born, and SNF took the stage for eight years.

When the hotel changed ownership, all entertainment was disbanded and Brian B. was once again on the hunt for a stage.

While having lunch at Spectrum Entertainment Complex, Brian B. began exploring and found Woody’s Press Box. Thinking it would be a good place for a comedy club, Brian B. approached the owner and SNF resumed in February 2018.

Audience attendance was slow-moving at first, with a recent uptick in numbers as former audience members realize the show is still in Grand Rapids, just in a different location.

Comics are also flocking to the stage, with 91 comedians participating in the opening round of Kingpin of Comedy.

“I don’t want to leave anyone out who wants to be in it, so the opening round was 14 weeks long,” said Brian B.

Brian B. works to encourage novice comedians, especially those who are unsure about participating in competitions.

Brian B.’s response: “Just do it. It’s still stage time, so you still get to get up before an audience, and – who knows – you might hit right with the audience and advance.”

Don’t miss out – be “in the know”

SNF is located at 5656 Clyde Park SW, Wyoming (between Meijer and Craig’s Cruisers), and the show begins at 8:30 p.m. Doors open one hour before start time, and food and drinks are available for purchase.

Watch the SNF Facebook page for updates and announcements about start times, comedian participation, and competition results.

To find out more about SNF, visit these sites: GRTV, YouTube, Facebook.

Up north folk rock band, Troll for Trout, to perform at Valley Field Sept. 16

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Troll for Trout will take the stage at Valley Field on Saturday, Sept. 16 (Courtesy Photo)

By Deborah Reed

deborah@wktv.org

Troll for Trout, an “up north folk rock band” will be at Valley Field (Sullivan Field) Saturday, Sept. 16.

The vintage ball park is hosting a Back to the 90’s Ballpark Jam festival-style show that will feature several musical artists.

Kicking off at 2:30 p.m. and running until 10 p.m., the show will consist of continuous music, beer, food trucks and of course – fun!

Troll for Trout will play alongside Papa Vegas, Domestic Problems, Knee Deep Shag and Craig Griffith. Between band acts, guests will be treated to solo performances by Adam Mikrut, Glen Danles, Ed Dupas, and more.

Troll for Trout is celebrating their 30th anniversary of colorful musical history. Over the years, the Michigan band has earned a diehard following and generated an impressive array of recordings.

“Troll for Trout and our music has always been about a lifestyle,” Michael Crittenden, founding member and chief songwriter, says on their website. “It’s that excited feeling of leaving work early on a beautiful Friday afternoon and pointing your vehicle North where there’s no schedule. It’s about finding and reconnecting with the peace that resides in all of us, but gets buried by the day to day grind.”

“Reboot” is a benefit for the restoration of Valley Field. A portion of the proceeds will also go toward the GVSU Aris Hampers Broadcasting Scholarship.

Tickets are available via Troll for Trout’s website at www.troll4trout.com.

Circle Theatre’s “Sweeney Todd” — A wonderfully tasty musical extravaganza

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(Courtesy, Circle Theatre)



By Colleen Pierson

WKTV Contributor



“Sweeney Todd” is a Sondheim Masterpiece. It is a highly challenging project that is haunting, powerful and thrilling. Go see Circle Theatre’s production running now through September 23.



In my opinion, I have never heard some of the most beautiful voices in community theater on one stage. Ever. It is not one to miss.

Let’s set the scene: An infamous tale, “Sweeney Todd,” (played by Cory Schutter) an unjustly exiled barber, returns to nineteenth century London, seeking vengeance against the lecherous judge (Nate Reynolds) who framed him and ravaged his young wife. The road to revenge leads Todd to Mrs. Lovett, (Emily Diener) a resourceful proprietress of a failing pie shop, above which he opens a new barber practice with the closest shave in town. Mrs. Lovett’s luck sharply shifts when Todd’s thirst for blood inspires the integration of a special ingredient into her meat pies that has the people of London lining up and dying for. The carnage has only just begun!


Sweeney Todd (played by Cory Schutter) and Mrs. Lovett (Emily Diener). (Courtesy, Circle Theatre)



The musical first appeared on Broadway in 1979 and was categorized by Sondheim as a “dark operetta.” That means a huge percentage of the score — probably about 80 percent — and storytelling is sung throughout.

And where does one find the voices in West Michigan to handle this challenging music that needs a very highly skilled cast?

Kudos to directors Carrie McNulty and Scott Patrick Bell for doing just that. There is not one ordinary voice onstage. All are extraordinary. No weak links. Each and every role is gorgeously sung in perfect characterization. The cast members are worthy of being in the Broadway talent pool. Sure, I am gushing, but the range of voices and challenges of the music leads to such a theatrical and glorious treat to experience by an immensely talented cast. A definite treat for the ears.  

Cory Schutter: “much variety and intensity … and impeccable singing”

Cory Schutter, taking on the role of Sweeney Todd, does so in a vicious, desperate and intimidating manner. At the same time, he was both vulnerable and volatile. There was much variety and intensity in his performance and he sang impeccably.

A “wow factor” in Emily Diener’s voice

Emily Diener portrays Mrs. Lovett with such delightful charm, charisma and humor. She mastered the craft with her comedic timing.  Such a wow factor in her voice with so many challenging songs to portray.

Sweeney Todd’s daughter Johanna, played by Maddie Vanderwell, has an angelic voice. A soprano voice with a beautiful lightness and wonder that perfectly matched her innocence. I was in awe of her talents. She dueted so effectively with young sailor Anthony Hope played by Alex Weiss.

It is very difficult to find a young boy with a soprano range to take on the role of Tobias Ragg. Directors gave the role to Meaghan Gietzen, who proved extremely believable with great depth to portray this important role. Witnessing her descent into madness was chilling. 

I appreciated being in an intimate theater setting that Circle Theatre provides on Aquinas College’s campus. Being up close and personal to hear every piece of sung and spoken dialect, experience the lighting design of Catherine Marlett Dreher and see the costume details provided by costume designer Jess Luiz was captivating. The staging of when Todd kills his clients and then sends their bodies directly through a chute into the pie shop’s bakehouse was always done effectively. Perfectly timed out.

Sometimes the actors were blocked to use the aisles of the theater to come onstage and then they got very close to us through inventive direction — making it feel so intimate and intense.

It was a challenge brilliantly handled by cast and crew of the final production of the season. Go see “Sweeney Todd.” For more info: circletheatre.org. 

Grand Rapids Ballet to launch Summer Series with annual Summer Dance Festival

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Grand Rapids Ballet’s annual Summer Dance Festival will kick off with performances beginning Aug. 25 (Courtesy, Grand Rapids Ballet)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

A dancer performs onstage at the outdoor Summer Dance Festival (Courtesy, Grand Rapids Ballet)

Grand Rapids Ballet (GRB) will perform outdoors at their second annual Summer Dance Festival Aug. 25-26, and at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park Aug. 29, as part of its annual Summer Series.

GRB is delighted to welcome the West Michigan community to the Summer Dance Festival. Individuals can enjoy two evenings of world-class dance, tasty food and beer tents outside Peter Martin Wege Theatre.

“Last year, our Summer Dance Festival was such a success that we knew we wanted to bring it back again this year,” said James Sofranko, Artistic Director at Grand Rapids Ballet. “This community-focused event showcases the art and talent that lives right here in Michigan, on one stage, celebrating our dance community.”

Performances in a variety of styles

The Summer Dance Festival features a variety of dance styles (Courtesy, Grand Rapids Ballet)

Audiences will enjoy performances in several styles each evening. Dance styles range from classical to contemporary, and ballroom to hip-hop. This specially curated, one-of-a-kind event begins at 5:30 p.m.

In addition to Grand Rapids Ballet dancers and Grand Rapids Ballet School students, attendees can enjoy performances by professional companies and dance ensembles from across Michigan.

A dancer performs onstage during Summer Dance Festival (Courtesy, Grand Rapids Ballet)

“This event is so special to me because it brings together dance enthusiasts, art lovers and people from all over Michigan to celebrate dance together,” said Sofranko. “There’s nothing else like it.”

GRB’s Summer Dance Festival is free to attend. Wine, beer and food will be available for purchase. This year’s food trucks include Being Cheesy, Los Jalapeños, Arcane Pizza, Frostbite Shaved Ice, Patty Matters, and Ice Box Brand.

A new addition to GRB’s Festival this year is a children’s tent featuring games, crafts, face painting, and Gracie the Clown. Attendees are encouraged to bring friends, family and a chair, and enjoy an evening of outdoor performance.

Frederik Meijer Gardens Performance

On Aug. 29, Grand Rapids Ballet returns to the outside amphitheater at Frederik Meijer Gardens. Performance tickets are free for Meijer Gardens members and included in general admission on performance day for guests.

A large crowd gathers to watch an outdoor ballet performance (Courtesy, Grand Rapids Ballet)

Featured works at Frederik Meijer Gardens include Elemental Brubeck with choreography by Lar Lubovitch, music by renowned jazz composer Dave Brubeck, and the return of Who Cares? from their 2022-23 season. With choreography by George Balanchine featuring the entire company and romantic pas de deux set to Gershwin tunes such as “I’ve Got Rhythm” and “The Man I Love,” the performance will surely be entertaining for attendees of all ages.

“I love providing new and unique experiences for our audiences by stepping outside the traditional theater, hopefully reaching new audiences along the way,” said Sofranko. “These events present the perfect opportunity for any member of our community to experience the ballet, and dance, in a new light.”

For a complete list of dance festival performers, performance times, and more information about the ballet’s Summer Series, visit grballet.com.

“Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” play is a must see at Circle Theatre Grand Rapids

2-row, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, West Michigan,
(Courtesy, Circle Theatre)



By Colleen Pierson

WKTV Contributor



A drama that deals with pain, passion, racism, art and pent-up rage is on stage through August 26 at Circle Theatre.  It is a powerful story about reclaiming power, black music and culture. A definite must-see production.

It’s 1927, and Ma Rainey, the Mother of the Blues, is recording new sides of old favorites in a run-down Chicago recording studio. She fights to retain control over her music. She knows that she is a valuable commodity in selling records, but feels that the white men only see her as the cash she generates.  



CaSaundra Ce’Moune plays Ma Rainey at the Circle Theatre through Aug. 26. (Courtesy, Circle Theatre)



“White folks don’t understand about the blues,” says Ma. “They hear it come out, but they don’t know how it got there. They don’t understand that that’s life’s way of talking.”

Before Ma Rainey (CaSaundra Ce’Moune) enters, her band members: Cutler (Michael P. Travis), Toledo (Deb Perry,) Levee (Noah King-Bates) and Slow Drag (Keon Atkins) tell stories surrounding black culture, music, conflicts and their personal stories. Trumpet player Levee dreams of making his own name in the business hence making the conflict measurable and the tensions apparent throughout.

The recording session is filled with conflict and strife as Ma Rainey wants things done her way. She is an independent African American woman with immense talent. Often referred to as the “Mother of the Blues,” she was a trailblazing African American blues singer and songwriter.



The cast of “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” from left: CaSaundra Ce’Moune (Ma Rainey), drummer Michael P. Travis (Cutler), cellist Keon Atkins (Slow Drag), trumpet player Noah King-Bates (Levee) and not shown is piano player Debra Perry (Toledo). (Courtesy, Circle Theatre)



CaSaundra Ce’Moune, or CC as she is known by, plays the role of Ma Rainey brilliantly and with great splendor. She is an explosive, powerful force on stage. Her singing voice makes the audience long for more. I would pay big bucks just to hear her in concert. What an immense talent.  

The direction of Will Gearring is majorly responsible for the effectiveness of this drama. He takes the actors through lengthy monologues that reach different levels of intensity. All of the actors are completely at home in their roles and extremely believable thanks to his competent direction and blocking of scenes. 



Debra Perry is Toledo the piano player. (Courtesy, Circle Theatre)





Of special note is Debra L. Perry, who takes on the role of piano man Toledo with such talent that I did not know she was a female. 



She and Co-Music Director Vanessa Allen also were responsible for training three of the four actors how to play the trumpet, drums and bass. A job very well done.

The 1920’s also are made even more believable thanks to the talents of costume designer Jess Luiz, hair and makeup designer Christina Barrera and properties designer Meaghan Gietzen.









Each character on stage has their special moment. The moments that stood out for me the most were the monologues delivered by Noah King-Bates with his pent-up rage and tragic life stories. His self-destruction at the end of the play was extremely dramatic. Other moments include all of the actors’ believable interactions in their character portrayals.


Attending the play’s pre-opening night was interesting to hear the Intermission discussions. 



“These actors cannot possibly be local talent, can they?” one woman questioned.  “There is so much talent in West Michigan,” another audience member commented.

“Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” is at Circle Theatre through August 26.  You can get your tickets online at circletheatre.org or by calling the box office at 616-456-6656.

The Reverend Jesse Ray takes the stage at Lamar Park with his Americana Rock N Roots experience on Aug. 15

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , ,
The Reverend Jesse Ray sings with soul at Ramshackle Brewing in Jonesville (Courtesy, Paul Jensen)

By Deborah Reed

deborah@wktv.org

The Reverend Jesse Ray will wrap up the Concerts in the Park summer series with an Americana Rock N Roots experience at Lamar Park in Wyoming on Tuesday, Aug. 15 at 6 p.m.

Patty Matters – Food Truck will have gourmet burgers available to purchase during the concert, and attendees are invited to bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy the summer evening and live music.

The beginning of it all

The Reverend Jesse Ray has always enjoyed music, singing with his mom and grandparents as a child and learning to play the ukulele under the tutelage of his paternal grandfather (who Ray called “Gumpy”) at 8 years old.

“It’s the ultimate form of self-expression,” said Ray about music.

Ray moved on to guitar at age 12, when “Gumpy” showed him that guitar chords were quite similar to ukulele chords.

The Reverend Jesse Ray performs in Grand Haven (Courtesy, Jeff Brinn)

Ray went on to say that his mother accompanied him to bars in the evenings that same year so he could participate in open mic nights.

His music repertoire moved on to include playing trumpet in high school jazz band, marching band, and concert band. For his senior year of high school, however, Ray decided to join choir and play guitar in the jazz band instead.

“That was a riot,” said Ray. “I really liked trumpet, but I really wanted to keep singing.”

“I would do open mics as a senior three or four days a week, and then go sleep in my car during lunch period,” said Ray.

College brought experiences in street performance and an interest in rockabilly blues and roots music, leading Ray to start the high-energy band, Jesse Ray and the Carolina Catfish, in 2013.

A life pivot

When asked if he pursued a degree in music, Jesse responded, “I was a music major for one whole day. The next day I skipped all of my classes, went to the counselor, and said no, we’re going to focus on history.”

Ray said that he felt unable to focus on what he wanted to do musically while being a music major. With a love of history as well, Ray pursued that interest during his college tenure instead.

“I really like American History,” said Ray. “I’ve been fascinated by it since I was a kid, how things got to be the way that they are. You can understand a lot if you look into the past.”

However, “I kept music as my love, my passion,” said Ray.

Lyrics and secrets

Ray said that a lot of his music stems from personal experiences, and that he tends to hide things in his song lyrics, some of them personal.

The Reverend Jesse Ray performs at outdoor venue in Grand Haven (Courtesy, Jeff Brinn)

“Some people get it, some people don’t,” said Ray. “Sometimes it’s a joke, and sometimes it’s something really deep and personal.”

Ray went on to say that music helped him process events and experiences in his life when he was younger.

“I write a song and put it out there, and then I feel a lot better when I walk away,” said Ray.

The Reverend: master of his own destiny

Always looking for new and creative musical opportunities, Jesse Ray brought forth The Reverend Jesse Ray, an Americana Rock N Roots experience.

But the moniker did not feel natural at first.

Coined “The Reverend” by a studio producer and then by band drummer Dingo, Ray said he didn’t care for the nickname. However, the nickname stuck as a way to set his music apart from other musicians bearing the name Jesse Ray.

“There were lots of Jesse Rays, but no Reverend Jesse Ray,” said Ray.

The Reverend Jesse Ray was born, and performs at venues all across Michigan.

Jesse Ray and the Carolina Catfish are also going strong with plans to release a new album Sept. 29th, and with at least 30 tour dates already in place across the United States.

To find out more about The Reverend Jesse Ray, visit: Facebook – The Reverend Jesse Ray and JRCC Band – The Reverend Jesse Ray.

To find out more about Jesse Ray and the Carolina Catfish, visit: JRCC Band.

Wyoming Concerts in the Park brings big sounds of Patty PerShayla & The Mayhaps

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Patty PerShayla & The Mayhaps: Patty, guitarist Lucas Powell, and original drummer Alec Klinefelter. (Courtesy of the band)

By K.D. Norris

WKTV Contributor

Listening to Patty PerShayla & The Mayhaps’ latest EP release, it is clear why they called
it Perpetual Motion Machine. The five-song release is all about power pop, with a fair
amount of rockin’ blues blasting through, and continues the band’s drive to its own
sound and popularity.

“Not slowing down in 2023, Patty PerShayla & The Mayhaps are stepping hard on the
gas pedal and touring more cities and music festivals than years prior,” the band states
on its website. “The trio have plans to record their next full-length album within the year.”

So expect a fast ride on a summer night when the band hits the stage Tuesday, Aug. 8.

The Tuesday evening Concerts in the Park are free of charge and open to the public at
Lamar Park, 2561 Porter St. SW. Performances start at 6 p.m. and conclude around 8 p.m.

A wild ride for Patty and her music

Michigan native Patty PerShayla hit the scene as a singer, songwriter, and multi-
instrumentalist after winning the 2019 WYCE Jammie Award for Best Rock/Pop Album
for her solo EP, Oracle Bones, according to a bio on her website.

Patty PerShayla & The Mayhaps’ latest EP, Perpetual Motion Machine (Courtesy)

But later in 2019, she joined forces with guitarist Lucas Powell and drummer Alec
Klinefelter to form Patty PerShayla & The Mayhaps. After road-testing their music, they released their “blues-infused, riff-driven debut album,” Cheap Diction, in 2021. (Current band drummer is Chris Thomas.)

A music video from that album went on to win Best Music Video at the 2022 Grand
Rapids Film Festival, and another was featured at the 2023 Michigan Music Video
Awards.

When Patty is not touring with the Mayhaps, she plays solo gigs and even toured with the equally great local band of multi-instrumentalists, The Accidentals, in 2021. For more information on Patty’s musical journey, visit: Patty PerShayla at home in Nashville.

For more information about Patty PerShayla & The Mayhaps and a video of the song “Spill” from the new EP, visit pattypershayla.com.

About the concert and venue

The Tuesday evening concerts feature a food truck with food and beverages available
for purchase. Concertgoers are welcome to bring their own food, however alcohol is not
permitted in the park.

“Concerts in the park are a highlight of summertime in Wyoming. We hope you will grab
your blankets, chairs and friends and join us for some fun in the parks!” Krashawn
Martin, Wyoming Parks and Recreation director, said earlier in introducing the concert
series.

For more details visit www.facebook.com/WyomingParksRec


Grand Rapids Ballet to perform outdoors at Millennium Park Aug. 5

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Kent County, Recreation, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , , ,
Nigel Tau (left) and Rowan Allegra of the Grand Rapids Ballet (Courtesy, Ray Nard Imagemaker)

By Deborah Reed

deborah@wktv.org

Grand Rapids Ballet (GRB), Michigan’s only classical ballet company, announces their first partnership event with Trail.Club, a nonprofit focused on propelling fun on West Michigan trails through grants that support unexpected events and experiences on community assets.

See Grand Rapids Ballet in a new light as it presents a unique outdoor performance at Millennium Park in Walker, Michigan, on Saturday, August 5, 2023. The performances will be held on one of West Michigan’s most pristine walking trails – the Hansen Nature Trail – and will feature three different duets ranging in length from three to five minutes. The entire outdoor experience will last for just under an hour.

GRB dancers will move through the trails and trees, giving the audience the feeling of being part of the performance.

James Sofranko, Artistic Director of GRB, said that he crafted the event in such a way that each duet is a progression to the next.

“You’re going on a journey down this path, but you’re going on a journey with the man and woman who are dancing the duets as well,” said Sofranko. “The dancers are different for each duet, but they represent the same couple at a different point in their relationship and their journey together.”


With the beauty of nature surrounding them, audience members can walk alongside the dancers and experience the ballet up close from a perspective like never before.

A new experience for everyone

While audience members will be gaining a new experience and perspective, so will GRB dancers.

“Usually we have a stage, and usually we are in ballet shoes or pointe shoes or jazz shoes, but we are going to be in sneakers now,” said Sofranko. “That will be a different challenge for us.”

Sofranko said that dealing with the limited space has been fun for him as a choreographer.

Rowan Allegra and Nigel Tau of the Grand Rapids Ballet (Courtesy, Ray Nard Imagemaker)

“It’s unusual and different,” said Sofranko. “In some ways, it’s fun for us as choreographers to try to fit an idea to a limitation. When you have a blank slate, you can do anything you want. That’s almost harder because there are so many ideas. But when you’re forced into a specific boundary like the trail itself or the terrain, you can’t do certain things. It gives you problems to solve which sometimes makes it easier in the creative process.”

Sofranko engaged two other GRB dancers to choreograph the other two pieces, something he does regularly so they can become attuned to what it means to be a choreographer.

“We need the next generation of artists to experience and to practice,” said Sofranko. “I try to give opportunities throughout the year for them to choreograph. I feel really proud of the talent that has been cultivated throughout the ranks of our dancers.”

Family-friendly and free

This event is great for adults and children alike. Attendees can plan to bring family and friends along to enjoy this free performance, sponsored by Trail.Club. The three performances will take place at 10:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., and 12:00 p.m. on Saturday morning.

“We are excited to bring this unique, one-of-a-kind performance to Millennium Park and the people of West Michigan,” said Sofranko. “Ballet is a living and breathing art form, which this community event aims to capture. We hope those who are able will come out to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors in a new and engaging way.”

For more information, please visit GRBALLET.COM/TRAILCLUB

Soul Syndicate will hit the stage in Wyoming’s Lamar Park on Tuesday, Aug. 1

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Upcoming Events, West Michigan, , ,


The Soul Syndicate is coming to the City of Wyoming Concerts in the Park (Supplied)

By K.D. Norris

WKTV Contributor

The on-stage lineup of local Funk/R&B+ powerhouse Soul Syndicate may change each year it makes its annual visit to Wyoming/Kentwood community concert stages, this time as part of the City of Wyoming Concerts in the Park on Aug. 1, but one thing that doesn’t change is the “heart and soul” they bring to the stage.

The Tuesday evening Concerts in the Park are free of charge and open to the public at Lamar Park, 2561 Porter St. SW. Performances start at 6 p.m. and conclude around 8 p.m. Running since June 13, the remaining concert is Aug. 8 with Patty PerShayla & The Mayhaps.

A cool look and masterful musicianship

On stage for Soul Syndicate are 10 or more musicians. Regulars include Colin Tobin and Katie Sarb on lead vocals, Mike Coon on guitar and vocals, Matt Fouts on bass, John Neil on keyboards, Tom Taylor on drums, Tim DenBesten on trumpet and vocals, Nate Hansen on baritone and alto saxophone, Jeff Carroll on the “bone” (trombone), and Danny Giacobassi on tenor saxophone.

The Soul Syndicate has some pretty cool swag too (Supplied)

The Soul Syndicate, according to its website, pays tribute to the most influential Funk, Soul, and R&B artists “with a sophisticated look, masterful musicianship, and a crowd-pleasing act…The group delivers an experience that will keep the audience dancing all night long, with a dedicated horn section and male/female vocalists, the group masterfully combines the best, classic dance music into multi—song medleys.”

Members of The Soul Syndicate have performed with such diverse artists as Peter Frampton, The Doobie Brothers, Hootie and the Blowfish, The Cars, The Beach Boys, The Temptations, The Spinners, Kansas, The Guess Who, Edgar Winter, Natalie Cole, and Rosemarie Clooney.

For more information about Soul Syndicate and a list of shows, visit www.thesoulsyndicte.com/shows.

Concert and venue features

Each Tuesday evening concert features a food truck with food and beverages available for purchase. Concertgoers are welcome to bring their own food, but alcohol is not permitted in the park.

“Concerts in the park are a highlight of summertime in Wyoming. We hope you will grab your blankets, chairs and friends and join us for some fun in the parks!” Krashawn Martin, Wyoming Parks and Recreation director, said earlier while introducing the concert series.

For more details visit www.facebook.com/WyomingParksRec.

A tale of Ireland: One-time WKTV editor publishes debut fiction novel

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Author K.D. Norris with novel “The View from Gleninagh North” at Schuler Books. (Courtesy, Ken Norris)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

After a vacation trip to Ireland in the early 2000s, and while working at WKTV Community Media and Mlive, local writer K.D. Norris wrote and recently published his debut fiction novel, “The View from Gleninagh North,” through Schuler Books Chapbook Press.

The novel is a personal look at Ireland — its landscape, people and recent history — wrapped around a human story of personal exploration and romance.

“I have described it as ‘The Bridges of Madison County’ meets ‘Bicycle Diaries.’ At its heart it is a romance novel, but there is a fair amount of travelogue as well,” Norris said. “Much of it was written in a coffee shop in Cedar Springs, and later at a local Starbucks before work.”

“The View from Gleninagh North” is available at Schuler Books Grand Rapids at 2660 28th Street SE, schulerbooks.com, and Amazon.

An outsider’s view

The View from Gleninagh North by K.D. Norris. (Courtesy, Ken Norris)

The novel’s narrator is Matthew Maybourn — “Ah, Matty, a good Irish name, that!” — a lifelong writer and recent widower who has left his middle-class, mid-life comfort zone. As an unplanned favor to a Hollywood friend and filmmaker, he is immersed in modern Ireland’s cultural landscape to write the impossible book: a sequel to “The Quiet Man.” 

An outsider in a small, rural village on Galway Bay, Matty explores his new world and other people’s life stories in search of not only a novel idea, but possibly a new meaning to his own life. All with a view from Gleninagh North.

“There is a fair amount of history and culture in the book as well, mostly true, as I could not write about my Irish characters without giving a glimpse of why I think they are who they are,” Norris said.

“And I have to thank members of my local writers group and the team at Schuler Books Chapbook Press for their support, advice and work in helping me get this book into print and available to readers,” Norris said.

About the author

K.D. Norris lives in Cedar Springs with wife TJ. He has published short stories in several regional anthologies, including “An Affair of the Mind,” published in 2021 by the Grand Rapids Region Writers Group (GRRWG) of which he is a member. He also had an essay selected for publication in “The Mailer Review” national publication, and has written numerous award-winning journalistic stories over his 30-plus year career in journalism and mass media.

For more on his professional and literary background, visit kdnorris.com.

Grand Rapids Ballet gets ready for upcoming 2023-24 season

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Recreation,

By WKTV Staff

Grand Rapids Ballet brings back its popular “The Nutcracker” production. (Courtesy, Grand Rapids Ballet)

Grand Rapids Ballet (GRB), Michigan’s only classical ballet company, officially kicks off its 2023-24 season as tickets go on sale for all their upcoming productions.

The season is packed full of dynamic pieces in Contemporary Visions, Jumpstart 2024, and In The Upper Room, in the Peter Martin Wege Theatre. These unique ballets show a range of diverse styles and themes the professional company can offer.

Throughout their 23-24 season Grand Rapids Ballet continues to present beloved classical family-friendly ballets such as The Nutcracker and Sleeping Beauty on a grand scale at DeVos Performance Hall with accompaniment from the Grand Rapids Symphony.

The Grand Rapids Ballet School’s Junior Company is pleased to present two spectacular productions, Carnival of the Animals and Snow White, at the Peter Martin Wege Theatre.

“In the 23-24 season, our audience will be able to experience a full range of what makes ballet so exciting. From the classical tradition of Sleeping Beauty to the contemporary thrill of In The Upper Room to our free Summer Dance Festival that celebrates the diversity of dance in our community, I am confident that this season will amaze, inspire, and perhaps most of all, connect us through the arts,” Artistic Director James Sofranko said.

The company continues to take artistic risks and bring new styles of ballet to the stage for its audience to enjoy. With this new season, Grand Rapids Ballet will welcome seven new company dancers from all across the United States and even from Japan. As the dancers have a month more of summer break, the ballet eagerly awaits their company dancers’ return, veteran and new, to start working on an incredible season lineup.

 

“Our 23-24 Season continues to uphold the reputation of Grand Rapids Ballet as a leader in the arts community, presenting the best of classical and contemporary ballet as well as commissioning new and exciting works by in-demand choreographers,” James Sofranko, Artistic Director at Grand Rapids Ballet says.

Individual tickets and season subscriptions are on sale during the duration of the season. By becoming a season subscriber, patrons can take advantage of many benefits, including the best seats for the best price, discounts on additional tickets, ticket flexibility with worry-free exchanges, exclusive invites to special GRB events, and so much more. Patrons also can participate in the Sizzling Summer Sale, where they can purchase tickets to The Nutcracker for 50% off for performances Dec. 8-18. The sale is going on through July 26 and patrons can use the promo code: SIZZLE.

Michigan native one of the stars in traveling ‘Frozen’ production

3-bottom, Entertainment, Kids Activities, Recreation, ,
Dominic Dorset as Kristoff and Collin Baja as Sven in the “Frozen” North American Tour. Photo by Matthew Murphy (Disney)

By John Gonzalez
WKTV Contributing Writer

If you call him “Kristoff,” Michigan native Dominic Dorset won’t mind.

“Yes, this is,” he said when we called him “Kristoff” answering the phone in a recent WKTV interview.

Is he tired of people calling him his character name?

“No, that’s alright,” he said. “I’m used to it by now, if anything.”

Dorset, a native of Saline, and 2022 graduate of the University of Michigan theater program, is excited to be on his first major tour in Disney’s “Frozen,” which plays this week (July 11-16) at DeVos Performance Hall, presented by Broadway Grand Rapids.

Bringing to life a familiar story to life

He’s learned a lot about the show, and being on the road, since the tour kicked off last September.

“I’ve gotten more comfortable with the part, having done the show eight times a week,” he said with a laugh.

Dominic Dorset (Courtesy)

“We have new cast members who come and go, so it changes, and the show has to adjust if the theater is bigger or the crowds livelier.”

The goal, he said, is to have consistent performances.

“But the reality is, we, as actors, have good days, and we have bad days,” he said. “We have days where we’re more energetic, and we have days where we’re a little slow. You’re never going to see the same show twice. But, overall, it’s always going to be ‘Frozen.’”

From the producers of “The Lion King” and “Aladdin,” The Tony-nominated “Frozen” brings back the familiar story – and songs – that fans of all ages know and love.

Something familiar

Wth music and lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, and book by Jennifer Lee, “Frozen” the musical is based on the 2013 film of the same name and centers on the relationship between two sisters – Elsa and Anna – who are princesses.

As fans know, Elsa has magical powers to freeze objects, and people, which she has difficulty controlling. She inadvertently causes the kingdom to become frozen in an eternal winter, and nearly kills her sister.

Kristoff and his trusty reindeer companion, Sven, play a key role in the storyline.

Dorset said fans of the “Frozen” movies will love the musical because of the familiar songs, “but it’s going to be more than that, too.”

“It’s a Broadway production, which means it’s going to have the highest quality of dancing, singing, acting, set design, costume design, puppetry – EVERYTHING!” he said. “It’s top-notch quality. It’s amazing.”

Something new

Fans will also get to hear a lot of new songs not in the films.

“The writers wrote about a dozen new songs…so if you come see the show, you’re going to see the movie you know, but you’re going to see a lot more than that…You won’t hear these songs anywhere else except for on this stage.”

Dorset said he’s been a fan of the film from the time it came out, “along with the rest of the world.”

“I guess I consider myself to be a pretty big Disney fan,” he said, growing up on the Disney Channel.

He said his parents recount how, as a kid, he was “obsessed with Cinderella and Snow White.”

“Which is kind of funny,” he said. “I was really into Disney from the time I could walk.”

A love for theater

He started in local theater in fourth grade, then at Saline High School. A summer camp between his junior and senior year in high school on the campus of UM introduced him to theater students all across the country.

Lauren Nicole Chapman as Anna and Dominic Dorset as Kristoff in the “Frozen” North American Tour. Photo by Matthew Murphy (Disney)

“I got to see kids who were really, really good. Some who had already been on Broadway. That was eye-opening to me and showed me what was possible.”

He applied to several colleges, but was excited to land at the University of Michigan because it was so close to home.

He said the thrill of creating shared experiences on stage is the magic that has him hooked every night.

“I just love stepping into somebody else’s shoes,” he said. “That’s what it’s all about. It’s telling somebody else’s story, finding the similarities and differences between you and the character that you’re playing, and bringing the words to life for a live audience.

Whole different experience

“There is something about everybody going through the experience of that story in the same room together is really addicting to me.”

That’s why fans should come see “Frozen,” he said. It’s the familiar story of Elsa and Anna, but in a live setting.

“It’s their journey of finding love and acceptance with one another, and other people, but it definitely has some updates, some new interpretations and just things you won’t get from seeing the original movie.” Dorset said. “So you have to come see the stage production.” 

John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.

Don’t miss Judah Guerra’s latest WKTV podcast, where he jams with a former American Idol Golden Ticket winner, Nathan Walton

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, West Michigan, ,
Great Lakes Music podcast host Judah Guerra (left) and guest Nathan Walton having some fun at WKTV.




By Cris Greer

WKTV Managing Editor

greer@wktv.org



You don’t want to miss local talent Judah Guerra’s latest WKTV podcast, “Great Lakes Music.”


As host and creator of the new podcast, Guerra interviews and performs original music with professionals from all corners of the music scene in Michigan.



His very inviting, warm and witty personality definitely shines through in these weekly conversations with musicians.


“This is a pursuit to learn more about what’s going on here in Michigan with music,” said Guerra, a bass and trombone player born and raised in Grand Rapids, a band leader of GR Groove and a jazz studies major at Michigan State University.



Be sure to check out his interview and jam session below with local musician Nathan Walton, of Nathan Walton and the Remedy, and a former Golden Ticket winner on Season 3 of ABC’s American Idol.



Check out local talent Judah Guerra’s first WKTV podcast called Great Lakes Music

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, West Michigan, ,
Michigan State University percussion instructor Kevin Jones, left, and MSU jazz studies major Judah Guerra in the podcast room at WKTV. (WKTV/Cris Greer)



By Cris Greer

WKTV Managing Editor

greer@wktv.org



Take a look at Michigan State University junior Judah Guerra’s first podcast he recently created at WKTV, “Great Lakes Music.”


As host of the new podcast, Guerra is interviewing and performing with professionals from all angles of the music scene in Michigan.


“This is a pursuit to learn more about what’s going on here in Michigan with music,” said Guerra, a bass and trombone player born and raised in Grand Rapids, a band leader of GR Groove and a jazz studies major at MSU.



Guerra studies under Michael Dease and Rodney Whitaker, “two of the most highly-regarded musicians in their fields today,” he said.


His first guest was MSU percussion instructor Kevin Jones, who has shared the stage or recorded with many musicians, including The Isley Brothers, Jermaine Jackson, Whitney Houston, Bebe and Cece Winans, Walter Bishop Jr., Tommy Turentine, Joey DeFrancesco, Melvin Sparks, Art Blakey, and a whole bunch more.



GRAM focuses on digital art in upcoming exhibit

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Recreation,
LoVid, Make Room For, 2022. Dye-sublimation on poly canvas with machine and hand-sewing, 47 ½ x 72 5/8 inches. Collection of the Carl & Marilyn Thoma Foundation. © Postmasters Gallery

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

Twenty-three software, video, and light-based works of art will be on view this summer at the Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM) in Message from Our Planet: Digital Art from the Thoma Foundation. On view June 17 – Sept. 9, the exhibition proposes that digital technology offers distinct ways for artists to communicate with future generations.



“Message from Our Planet celebrates digital technologies as an incredible tool for today’s artists,” said GRAM Associate Curator Jennifer Wcisel. “The works in the exhibition encompass familiar technologies like digital video and photography to the unexpected visualization of data, assemblages of electronic components, and collages of found-video footage. We look forward to highlighting the myriad possibilities of digital art at GRAM and hope our guests leave with a new, broader understanding of the art form.”



Spanning the mid-1980s to today, the works in Message from Our Planet utilize a range of vintage and cutting-edge materials to create a polyphonic time-capsule, preserving their ideas, beliefs, and desires. The regional, national, and international artists featured in the exhibition include Ólafur Elíasson, Jenny Holzer, LoVid, Hong Hao, Matthew Angelo Harrison, Christian Marclay, and James Nares.



Message from Our Planet includes artwork that uses digital technologies as a tool for the creation of more traditional art objects—like a photograph, print, or sculpture—as well as art that is created, stored, and distributed by digital technology and employs their features as its medium.



The artists in Message from Our Planet engage with nontraditional mediums like video games, computer code, scanners, 3-D printers, online data, and even discarded electronic parts to create engaging works of digital art that capture the concerns and ambitions of our current era. The earliest work in the exhibition was created by Brazilian artist Eduardo Kac in 1986 with a now defunct Minitel terminal, a device used to access the most popular online service prior to the World Wide Web.

 

Detroit-based artist Matthew Angelo Harrison uses custom software and a handmade 3D printer to explore history, ancestry, and the relationship between African and African American culture. Harrison’s work, Braided Woman, is a 3D-printed sculpture of an imagined artifact. To create this work, Harrison scanned images of historic African masks from books and online sources, then digitally blended their shapes to generate a unique, composite object.

 

Featured Artists:
Brian Bress
Lia Chaia
Ólafur Elíasson
Nicholas Galanin
Sabrina Gschwandtner
Hong Hao
Matthew Angelo Harrison
Claudia Hart
Jenny Holzer
Eduardo Kac
LoVid
Christian Marclay
Lee Lee Nam
James Nares
Paul Pfeiffer
Tabita Rezaire
Michal Rovner
Jason Salavon
Elias Sime
Skawennati
Penelope Umbrico
Robert Wilson

Member Event:

Member Exhibition Opening: Message from Our Planet
Friday, June 16 | 7 – 9 pm 
Museum Members and their guests are invited to celebrate the opening of Message from Our Planet at the Grand Rapids Art Museum. Join us for an advance look at the exhibition, accompanied by hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar.



RSVP by June 8 | 616.831.2909 or artmuseumgr.org/memberopening



Message from Our Planet: Digital Art from the Thoma Collection is curated and supported by the Carl & Marilynn Thoma Foundation. Support for this exhibition has been generously provided by Wege Foundation, with additional funding provided by GRAM Exhibition Society.

About the Grand Rapids Art Museum 

 Connecting people through art, creativity, and design. Established in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, the art museum is internationally known for its distinguished design and LEED® Gold certified status. Founded in 1910 as the Grand Rapids Art Association, GRAM has grown to include more than 6,000 works of art, including American and European 19th and 20th-century painting and sculpture and more than 3,000 works on paper. Embracing the city’s legacy as a leading center of design and manufacturing, GRAM has a growing collection in the area of design and modern craft.  

For museum hours and admission fees, call 616.831.1000 or visit artmuseumgr.org.  

Free summer concerts return with GRAM on the Green

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Local Entertainment, , , ,

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

La Furia Del Ritmo opens up the GRAM on the Green with WYCE concert series on July 20.

The Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM) has announced the 2023 lineup for its 14th annual free summer concert series, GRAM on the Green with WYCE 88.1 FM. Taking place on Thursday evenings from July 20 through Aug. 10, the series brings four evenings of performances by local and regional musical acts to downtown Grand Rapids.

Guests of all ages are invited to relax on the Museum’s outdoor terrace and enjoy free live music, food trucks, a cash bar, and hands-on artmaking activities. Admission to the Museum is also free during GRAM on the Green as part of Meijer Free Thursday Nights. 

 

“The Grand Rapids Art Museum is thrilled to bring another season of free summer concerts to downtown Grand Rapids in partnership with WYCE 88.1 FM,” said GRAM Director of Communications Elizabeth Payne. “GRAM on the Green is part of our ongoing commitment to present accessible and engaging art experiences for our community, and we look forward to another year of celebrating art and music downtown.” 

2023 Lineup:  

  • July 20: La Furia Del Ritmo (latin/world) 
  • July 27: Sarena Rae (soul/blues/jazz) 
  • August 3: The Bootstrap Boys (country/americana/folk) 
  • August 10: Pretoria (rock/indie/alternative) 



“WYCE is excited for another year of GRAM on the Green,” said WYCE Music Director and series curator Chris Cranick. “This year’s lineup features a mix of Michigan artists making waves in the community. Whether it’s Latin groove, soul, forward-thinking country or modern indie rock, we’re elated to present the diverse lineup of talent this year. Each act is sure to get everyone on their feet dancing. We look forward to connecting with the community at the shows this summer.”

Concert guests are invited inside the Museum to explore the exhibitions on view during the summer months, including Message from Our Planet: Digital Art from the Thoma Collection, Ellsworth Kelly & Jack Youngerman: Surrounding Shapes, and rotating works from GRAM’s collection on all three floors of the Museum.  

Kentwood Farmers Market and Summer Concert Series kick off on June 15

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Entertainment, West Michigan, , ,
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The City of Kentwood’s Farmers Market and Summer Concert Series will return for the 2023 season on June 15.

The Farmers Market will run from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. every Thursday from June 15 through Sept. 7 behind Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE. The Summer Concert Series takes place from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on select Thursdays on the lawn behind City Hall.



(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



“We’re looking forward to connecting with community members as they join us to shop local goods and enjoy the sounds of local music,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “Whether you’re looking to find fresh produce or your new favorite band, the Kentwood Farmers Market and Summer Concert Series have something for everyone to enjoy.”

The Farmers Market will provide a variety of local goods for sale, including fresh produce, baked goods, crafts and more. It will feature 20+ local vendors and include special activities throughout the season. The market accepts food assistance benefits, including SNAP, Double Up Food Bucks and Senior Project FRESH/Market FRESH.

Community members will have the opportunity to enjoy this year’s Summer Concert Series featuring eight local music groups on the following dates:

  • June 15
  • June 22
  • June 29
  • July 13
  • July 20
  • July 27
  • Aug. 3
  • Aug. 10



Concertgoers are encouraged to bring a blanket or chair and are welcome to bring their own food, beer and wine to enjoy during the show. Food trucks also will be on-site each week with food and drinks available for purchase.

Here’s the full lineup of the free activities, food trucks and concerts:

  • June 15: Opening day celebration featuring Patty Matters, Street Chef Shaw, Kool Breeze and Kona Ice food trucks as well as the Azz-Izz Band concert at 7 p.m., playing old-school, new pop, Motown and funk.
  • June 22: El Jalapeño, Sanse Filipino Cuisine, Taste of Toya’s World and Dolce Maria food trucks and Wity Sound Band concert at 7 p.m., performing a fusion of salsa, Cuban timba, rock ’n’ roll and American music.
  • June 29: Around Baking Company, Let’z Taco Bout It, Street Frites and Semifreddo food trucks; Cabildo concert at 7 p.m., playing a blend of cumbia, Ska, folk and other genres of music from Latin and South America.
  • July 6: Bike Day featuring bike vendors and a group bike ride to Railtown Brewing. Food trucks include Street Chef Shaw and Semifreddo.
  • July 13: El Jalapeño, Taste of Toya’s World, Falafel Truck and Kool Breeze food trucks and Chicago Farmer and the Field Notesconcert at 7 p.m., performing gritty country rock and folk.
  • July 20: Falafel Truck, Let’z Taco Bout It, Sanse Filipino Cuisine, Skinny Kenny’s BBQ and Ohana Hawaiian Ice food trucks and Good Morning Bedlam concert at 7 p.m., playing high-energy folk music.
  • July 27: Around Baking Company, El Jalapeno, Patty Matters and Semifreddo food trucks and Big Band Nouveau concert at 7 p.m., performing modern jazz in a full big band orchestra.
  • Aug. 3: Patty Matters, Sanse Filipino Cuisine, Falafel Truck, Street Chef Shaw and Kona Ice food trucks andBrena concert at 7 p.m., playing oldies, Top 40 hits, classic rock, R&B, country and more.
  • Aug. 10: National Farmers Market Week celebration featuring a food demonstration and food samples, Around Baking Company, Falafel Truck, Kool Breeze and Dolce Maria food trucks and RocknSoulconcert at 7 p.m. performing a mix of songs from the 60’s to current hits.
  • Aug. 17: Kids Day featuring a meet and greet with John Ball Park Zoo, kids crafts and activities and Street Frites and Ohana Hawaiian Ice food trucks.
  • Aug. 24: Dog Days of Summer featuring dog vendors and adoptions and Let’z Taco Bout It and Semifreddo food trucks.
  • Aug. 31: Charcuterie Challenge, a food assembly showdown using only Farmers Market ingredients, and El Jalapeño and Dune Buggy food trucks.
  • Sept. 7: End of season celebration with food demos and samples and Patty Matters and Semifreddo food trucks.

Parking will be limited at both City Hall and the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE. Residents can find additional parking options at the Kentwood Justice Center, 4740 Walma Ave. SE, Kentwood Fire Station 1, 4775 Walma SE; Kentwood Public Works, 5068 Breton Road SE; and street parking in nearby neighborhoods. 



(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)



The Kentwood Farmers Market still has a few openings for vendors and volunteers. Individuals who are interested can learn more and apply at KentwoodFarmersMarket.com.

There is construction along 52nd Street SE that may impact the route community members take to the events. A  detour map is available at kentwood.us/52ndStDetour.

Additional information about the Kentwood Farmers Market can be found at KentwoodFarmersMarket.com. To learn more about the Summer Concert Series, visit kentwood.us/SummerConcertSeries.



(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)