Helanius J. Wilkins in a 2017 Kennedy Center performance. (Kennedy Center video)
Award-winning choreographer and 2021 RADicle Residency Artist Helanius J. Wilkins makes his debut in southwest Michigan as part of Kalamazoo’s signature Midwest RAD Fest with the performance of The Conversation Series: Stitching the Geopolitical Quilt to Re-Body Belonging — a multi-dimensional evening length dance production that confronts and celebrates heritage, residence, justice, and hope.
Taking place Friday, March 4, at 8 p.m. in the Wellspring Theatre at the Epic Center, this work features a male duet not only navigating but, through real time interactivity, converting a modular set design, through video projects, into multiple geographical and architectural landscapes and memory walls that create a vibrant video landscape that “stitches” the past, present and future.
Wellspring/Cori Terry and Dancers are presenting the 13th annual Midwest RADFest in a hybrid face-to-face and virtual format on March 4-6. The event will feature the works of more than 25 different choreographers and 20 screen dance makers from Russia, Barbados, France, New York City, Chicago, and many other U.S. locations including several cities in four different concerts, two different screen dance presentations, a movement installation, and a special show. Additional, RADFest will offer master classes, workshops, informational perofmrnaues, artist talks and a Movement Installation in the form of an immersive dance film. All in person events will take place at the Epic Center and the Kalamazoo Public Library.
Midwest RADFest Tickets start at $25 for youth and go up to $80 for an all access pass. For more information about the Midwest RADFest, visit midwestradfest.org.
Deadline for the Dismantle Patriarchy Contest is April 7. (pxhere.com)
The gender-based violence prevention groups V-Day and A Call to Men have launched a competition calling on high school and college students to use their creative talents to Dismantle Patriarchy. The Dismantle Patriarchy Contest challenges young people to use visual art, music, essay, story, poetry, video or photography to envision how they might change the larger societal system of patriarchy and create an accepting society.
According to the press release, patriarchy is a system of power whereby masculinity and men are marked as inherently more worthy than femininity and women. This puts men on top, giving them more access to power, resources, and even knowledge. It tells women that they deserve less: less money, less freedom, less strength. And it erases people who don’t ascribe to traditional gender roles, too often with violence. Through this contest, students will be encouraged to question, challenge, and break down patriarchy and show what a post-patriarchal world looks like.
The Dismantle Patriarchy contest consists of two categories of competition: high school and college. Ten winners from each category will receive $1,000 prizes. All final submissions are due April 7, 2022, and an awards ceremony for the winners will be held in late April 2022.
Questions that entrants should consider for their submissions include:
Think about how the concept of gender and gender roles shape our lives. How do they impact you and your peers, your family?
What does patriarchy mean to youth today?
How does patriarchy affect transgender people and those who hold fluid identities that are subject to gender-based violence?
If you view gender differently than you’ve previously been taught to see it, how do you think your worldview will change? What does that mean for the future and our world?
Who does patriarchy prioritize? What would a non-patriarchal world look like for traditionally marginalized and excluded folks?
I love February. It’s Black History Month. The Chinese New Year begins. And the Olympics are back.
All are in this weekend’s Gonzo’s Top 5, exclusively on WKTV Journal.
Here we go.
Gonzo’s Top 5
5. Forest Hills Eastern presents Seussical the Musical
West Michigan is blessed with many great high school theater programs. This weekend you can check one out as “Seussical, The Musical” is being presented at the Forest Hills Fine Arts Center in Grand Rapids. The story takes you on a very familiar journey with The Cat in the Hat, who tells the story of Horton, an elephant who discovers a speck of dust that contains the Whos. Performances are at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 3 p.m. Saturday. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for students. More info at fhfac.com.
4. She Runs GR Training Run and Warm Up
Is one of your New Year’s Resolutions is to compete in She Runs Grand Rapids (formally Gazelle Girl)? Even though the race is not until May 1, you can start training now as part of World of Winter in downtown Grand Rapids. A training run is planned Saturday (Feb. 5) with a 30-minute warm-up and distances of 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 miles. Hot chocolate, coffee and water will be available afterward. Meet at 9 a.m. at 555 Monroe. More info on the World of Winter website at worldofwintergr.com/events.
Other World of Winter events: Outdoor Olympic Watch Party at Studio Park at 7:30 p.m. Friday; Black History Month Walking Tour at 2 p.m. Saturday; Movies on the Piazza with live action “Mulan” at 1 p.m. Sunday and “Cruella” at 4 p.m. Sunday.
3. Lunar New Year Storytelling
Celebrate the Lunar New Year with the Grand Rapids Asian-Pacific Foundation with a free event featuring outdoor storytelling, storybook reading and dragon/lion dancer performances from. 2-4 p.m. Saturday (Feb. 5) at the Studio Park piazza. Studio Park which is located in downtown Grand Rapids at 123 Ionia Ave. SW. More info at facebook.com/grasianfoundation.
2. Winter Motoring Meet
Looking for a fun outdoor event? The second annual Winter Motoring Meet features more than 400 classic vehicles on Saturday (Feb. 5) at the Gilmore Car Museum in Hickory Corners. The event includes scenic rides in several of the museum’s antique cars and trucks, as well as a special exhibit of vintage snowmobiles, a professional ice carving exhibition and outdoor games. Guests can enjoy an outdoor fire with food and beverages, too. Also, feel free to bring your own snowshoes or cross-country skis for a trek across the 90-acre campus. For more info including admission, go to gilmorecarmuseum.org/events/winter-motoring-meet.
Car lovers, it’s back! The 24th Annual Michigan International Auto Show presented by Gentex takes place this weekend at DeVos Place. The show features 20 manufacturers of trucks, SUVs, crossovers, electrics, hybrids and performance vehicles. Plus, those classic cars in the Million Dollar Motorway of vintage and high-priced cars of the Gilmore Car Museum. Hours are 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is $12 for adults and $5 for children ages 6-14. Learn more at GRAutoShow.com.
That’s it for now.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe weekend.
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.
Grand Rapids Civic Theatre will host auditions for its production of “Kinky Boots” Feb. 13.
“Kinky Boots”, inspired by true events, is the story of Charlie, a straight-laced business owner, who inherits his family’s family shoe factory. Uninspired by the work but desperate to succeed, Charlie forms an unlikely partnership with cabaret performer and drag queen Lola. Together, they produce a line of custom high-heeled boots to save the business. In the process, Charlie and Lola discover that they have more in common than they ever dreamed possible.
Winner of six 2013 Tony Awards, including Best Musical. The score was written by Cyndi Lauper with book by Broadway legend Harvey Fierstein.
The cast calls for 25-30 adults, ages 18 and older, of all gender identities and ethnicities, and two male children, ages 9-13.
Auditons for children roles will be from 5 – 6 p.m. Feb. 13 and adult roles will be from 6 – 10 p.m. Callbacks will be Feb. 15 and 16.
Big news coming from Sunday Night Funnies as the organizer announces the show will return to Woody’s Pressbox in Wyoming. (SNF)
Almost two years since its last show and about four years from when its first show premiered at Woody’s Pressbox, Sunday Night Funnies will return to Woody’s on Feb. 20.
Going on since the fall of 2010, the Sunday Night Funnies is a free weekly live stand-up comedy performance featuring a variety of comics from Michigan and around the country.
Due to COVID, the local comedy production’s last show was March 15. For the past several months, Sunday Night Funnies has been at Grand Rapids’ The Guest House.
“We are very excited to have the Sunday Nigh Funnies returning,” said Mike Eaton, Jr. Partner/Operations at Spectrum Lanes. “We look forward to a long and successful relationship with Brian and the Sunday Night Funnies.”
Sunday Night Funnies creator and host Brian B. said he is happy to be bringing the show back to Woody’s Pressbox, which is located in inside Wyoming’s Spectrum Entertainment Complex Wyoming at 5656 Clyde Park SW.
“The COVID pandemic affected everyone’s lives and I’m glad that the Spectrum Entertainment Complex has bounced back and is ready to have the Funnies at the venue again,” he said. “Its been almost stwo years since our last show there and four years to the day when we did the first one, so starting back up on Feb. 20 will be our four-year anniversary there of sorts.
“We’ll be hitting the ground running with a special Gilda’s Club LaughFest show on March 20 then in May we’ll being our 4th Annual Kingpin of Comedy competition.”
The show starts at 7:30 p.m. at Wood’s Pressbox which is located between Meijer and Craig’s Cruisers. For more on Sunday Night Funnies shows, visit the Sunday High Funnies Facebook page.
The second annual Winter Motoring Meet will return to the Gilmore Car Museum Saturday, Feb. 5, with a day of outdoor family fun in Michigan’s winter weather, plus full access to the museum’s indoor collection of more than 400 classic vehicles.
Access to the Winter Motoring Meet and related activities will be included in standard daily admission to the museum, according to an announcement from the museum.
The Gilmore Car Museum’s Winter Motoring Meet will include winter machines of all kinds. (Supplied/by Lew Verburg)
“The Gilmore Car Museum’s Winter Motoring Meet is for folks who appreciate Michigan’s Winter Motoring season, whether in their cars, 4×4 trucks, Jeeps, or snowmobiles,” Josh Russell, executive director of the Gilmore Car Museum, said in supplied material. “It’s a fun way for us to get outside and enjoy the winter season, in an outdoor environment with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy our 90-acre campus.”
The Winter Motoring Meet will include scenic rides around the snow-covered Gilmore campus in several of the museum’s antique cars and trucks, a special exhibit of vintage snowmobiles, a professional ice carving exhibition, and outdoor games.
The Gilmore Car Museum’s Winter Motoring Meet will include classic snowmobiles. (Supplied/by Lew Verburg)
A special 1-day-only exhibit of antique, vintage, and racing snowmobiles (from 1992 and older) will be on featured display at the Winter Motoring Meet. The indoor and outdoor snowmobile exhibit has been coordinated with help and support from Vintage Snowmobile Michigan — snowmobile enthusiasts from across Michigan and the Great Lakes region (facebook.com/VintageSnowmobileMichigan).
Guests will also be able to warm up by an outdoor fire, with available food and beverage options to include homemade soup, gourmet hot chocolate, winter beer, a glass of wine, or a favorite cocktail.
“If we’re lucky enough to have fresh snow on the day of our meet, guests are welcome to bring their own snowshoes or cross-country skis for a trek across our beautiful 90-acre campus,” the announcement states.
The Gilmore Car Museum’s Winter Motoring Meet will include tours in antique vehicles. (Supplied/by Josh Russell)
Free “glorified sleigh rides” through the snow-covered Gilmore campus will also be offered to museum guests, riding on bench seats in the bed of a classic Ford Model AA pickup truck, and in other classic “open air” cars and trucks from the museum’s collection.
“Guests should consider bringing their warm coats, hats, gloves, and perhaps even blankets,” the announcement states.
I was shopping at Meijer the other day and said, “Why is all this Valentine’s Day candy out?”
Hello, Gonzo!
Next week is February, and that means Valentine’s Day is right around the corner.
Consider this a heads up for those of you who need a reminder or nudge to come up with a plan. You know your significant other loves it when you plan in advance.
Speaking of planning, if you didn’t get a chance to plan something for this weekend, I’m here with a list of events taking place throughout West Michigan.
It’s all in my Gonzo’s Top 5, exclusively on WKTV Journal.
Here we go.
Gonzo’s Top 5
5. Huntin’ Time Expo
The largest collection of hunting exhibits in the state, the annual Huntin’ Time Expo, returns this weekend with 350-plus booths featuring a variety of products and services. Along with gear, you can also find a wide range of outfitters from all over the globe and educational seminars. Hours are 1-9 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m-7 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday at the DeltaPlex in Walker. Tickets are $12 for adults, $6 for kids (ages 5-12). Kids admitted free on Sunday. Free parking all weekend, according to organizers. More info at www.deltaplex.com and https://www.huntingshows.net/.
4. 2022 Kids & Family Expo
Looking for something to do with the kiddos? Indoors? On Saturday (Jan. 29) head over to DeVos Place for a fun-filled family day at the Kids & Family Expo. The goal is to encourage families to play and move with physical activities such as interactive programs, exhibits, and entertainment. They even have a Zip Line that flies through DeVos Place. Tickets are $8 for adults, $4 for children ages 3-15 and free for children ages 2 and under. More info at devosplace.org or kohlerexpo.com/kids-and-family-expo.
3. “Shakespeare in Love”
Based on the Academy Award-winning movie that starred Joseph Fiennes and Gwyneth Paltrow, “Shakespeare in Love” opens this weekend at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre. It opens Friday and continues through Feb. 13. The play reimagines William Shakespeare’s creative process, especially as a young writer who struggled with deadlines and creditors. He finds that love leads the way. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. There is no performance on Feb. 11. Single tickets are $18-$40. For more information, visit grct.org.
I’m not sure exactly how ranking, scoring or judging works in this sport, but I don’t care. It’s fun to watch, and you know the winners always stay on the bull longer than the others. Sorry if I oversimplified that! According to organizers, “All 40 bull riders will get on one bull each in Rounds 1-2. Following Round 2 Saturday evening, the riders’ individual two-round scores will be totaled with the Top 10 advancing to the championship round for one more out and a chance at the event title. This weekend the Professional Bull Riders Tour stops Friday and Saturday (Jan. 28-29) at Van Andel Arena. More info at vanandelarena.com
One of the most fun experiences you will ever have is to sing and dance like no one’s watching! That’s the premise of Silent Disco. Put on a set of wireless headphones and enjoy live music from a variety of local DJs. You hear your music and watch others dance to their own beat. Check out Silent Disco at 7 p.m. Saturday (Jan. 29) at World of Winter in downtown Grand Rapids. It is located at 555 Monroe Ave. NW. DJs include: AB & Floppy Drive (7-8 p.m.), Diesel & DJ Sommelier (8-9 p.m.), and Taheo B2B Yeesh & DJ Tony Banks (9-10 p.m.). Food trucks on-site: Patty Matters, Mapocho, Street Chef Shaw and BlueChip. Also this weekend: Pop Up Performers throughout downtown (6-8 p.m. Friday), Black History Walking Tour at Rosa Parks Circle (noon, Sunday), and Food Trucks (5-8 p.m. Friday, 2-8 p.m. Saturday, and noon-6 p.m. Sunday). More details on all events at https://worldofwintergr.com/events. World of Winter continues through March 6.
That’s it for now.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe weekend.
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.
The Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour comes to the Van Andel Arena this weekend, Jan. 28 and 29.
For two nights, 40 of the best bull riders in the world, such as Canada’s Brock Radford, will be part of the live sporting event. The Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour is known for playing a key role in riders reaching the top levels of competition in professional bull riding.
Tickets start at $15 in advance with prices going up $5 on event day. Other ticket packages are available that include a question-and-answer presentation with some of the top bull riders and stock contractors. For more information visit ticketmaster.com or PBR.com or call 1-800-732-1727.
The Concerts Under the Stars series continues with local band Hollywood Makeout performing familiar, yet refreshing sounds of surf-garage-pop-rock at the Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) on Thursday, Feb. 10. Sit back and experience the wonders of the cosmos, featuring fully immersive audio and visual experiences in the Museum’s Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium, highlighting local music and visual artists.
Formed in 2013, Hollywood Makeout is composed of four talented artists including Erin Lenau (lead vox, guitar) and Cedric Canero (bass, backup vox), Tim Broderick (drums, backup vox) and Tim Warren (guitar). All members have been musicians from young ages and their combined experience shows itself in their songwriting and performances.
Julie Seaward, a local freelance artist, will accompany Hollywood Makeout, providing captivating visuals on the planetarium dome to complement the performance. Julie’s focus is on illustrative 2D animation and motion graphics, graphic design and painting. Her work primarily explores cultural identity and hopefulness within the human condition.
The show will begin at 7:30 p.m. with doors opening at 6 p.m., including access to the Museum’s first two floors of exhibits. Performers will play two sets with a short intermission in between. Refreshments, beer and other beverages will be available for purchase. Tickets are $20, with discounted pricing of $16 for GRPM members. Tickets are currently on sale and available at grpm.org.
The 2022 Concerts Under the Stars series will conclude in March, featuring a unique blend of alternative rock sets performed by Lazy Genius with two shows on March 10 and 11.
Those who visit Allendale’s Evergreen Elementary school on Wednesday nights should come prepared for battle.
Seasoned warriors enter the gymnasium with weapons drawn each week, ready to engage in combat. As duels commence, the room fills with the sound of clashing steel blades.
Members of the Centerline Sword School have some fun posing. (WKTV)
This band of sword-wielding enthusiasts forms the Centerline Sword School. The school teaches Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA), a growing movement to revive the study of historically accurate swordcraft in West Michigan and nationwide.
Mark Maddox, a Centerline Sword School student, recalls hearing about HEMA from his niece and brother and immediately getting hooked.
“HEMA is an opportunity to do martial arts as I did long ago in a different context,” Maddox said. “It’s a little bit of childhood excitement mixed with reliving the history of medieval and renaissance times.”
In Maddox’s view, HEMA appeals to athletes and history buffs alike. The hobby involves discovering fighting techniques developed by European swordsmen and putting them into practice using modern interpretation.
Unlike eastern martial arts or fencing, HEMA does not follow an oral tradition passing down standardized methods and rules. HEMA instructors must study manuals written by influential figures such as Joachim Meyer, a 16th-century German fencing master, and analyze the moves depicted in diagrams.
When students start practicing these moves, they often discover that the motions feel different than what they imagined after seeing choreographed fight scenes in fantasy movies.
Centerline Sword School instructor Shane Hillen reviews techniques with a student. (WKTV)
“The media gets a lot wrong,” Maddox said. “Real fights are not ‘Princess Bride’-style where you land several hits for twenty minutes. In reality, a fight could end with a single blow.”
Sessions consist of solo drills, lessons on a particular technique, and sparring. Beginners learn basic cuts, guards, and footwork before moving to dodges, counterattacks, and grappling.
Maddox’s favorite tenet of swordsmanship says that one should never be afraid of getting hit or hitting someone else. HEMA uses protective equipment to ensure participants’ safety. Still, students must brace themselves to take hits and walk away with the occasional bruise.
Yet Cameron Metcalf, a Centerline instructor, describes swordplay as an elegant art. Bouts often end when a combatant finds a strategic opening in their opponent’s position, removes their weapon, and throws them off balance.
Metcalf and Centerline students travel to tournaments across the Midwest to test their prowess. Contestants earn points by landing blows on the head, torso, and limbs during matches.
On average, sword battle only lasts about a few minutes, according to members of the Centerline Sword School. (WKTV)
“Fencing is a game of chess, not a brutish activity,” Metcalf said.
The thrill of competition motivates some Centerline participants to keep coming back to practice. For others, HEMA offers a fun way to meet friends and get in shape with a supportive community.
“Who doesn’t want to play with swords?” said Ehren Wynder, a Centerline instructor. “It’s a great way to blow off steam.”
Newcomers can start practicing HEMA by purchasing a synthetic sword for around $100. Inexpensive equipment allows the user to get the swing of things before investing in pricey gear like a steel longsword and a complete armor kit.
West Michigan residents interested in learning more about HEMA can find a full class schedule on Centerline Sword School’s website and Facebook page.
After having to delay its opening of its winter production, Grand Rapids Civic Theatre will present “Shakespeare in Love” starting this Friday through Feb. 13.
Based on the Academy Award-wining movie that starred Joseph Fiennes and Gwyneth Paltrow, the play reimagines William Shakespeare’s creative process. The young Shakespeare has writer’s block. The deadline and the creditors for his new play are closing in, and he’s in desperate need of inspiration. Enter his muse, Viola, a young woman who will stop at nothing to appear in his next play. Despite Shakespeare’s ruthless adversaries and a dysfunctional theatrical company, he and Viola’s love blossoms and inspires his great masterpiece.
Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. There is no performance on Feb. 11. Single tickets are $18-$40. For more information, visit grct.org.
Also, new this year, the semi-finalists for the Ten For All playwriting festival will have their plays read live on stage. Youth categories is Jan. 31 and adult categories is Feb. 1. Tickets for the readings are free. The finalists will have their plays performed at the Ten For All Festival which is set for Mach 18 – 20.
When saxophone man Joshua Redman first burst onto the jazz scene in the 1990s he was labeled as one of the “Young Lions” of the ’80/90s straight-ahead jazz scene — with the likes of Roy Hargrove, Wynton Marsalis and Nicholas Payton.
But even back then he was fully able to excel in jazz’s traditional past as he was to blaze new trails in modern (new/neo, experimental, whatever) jazz sounds — I first heard him back in 1990-something, at Oregon’s Reed College, and there he played two sets, one for the older traditional crowd and one for the younger, more adventuresome crowd I was part of.
Three decades on, and on-stage around the world, Redman may not be “young” anymore (he’ll be 53 in February) but he and his sax can still whisper an Ellington tune and roar a totally “twisted” take on a Sonny Rollins jazz waltz, as evidenced by his stop at St. Cecilia Music Center, on Jan. 20, as the the music center’s 2022 jazz series debuted.
On that night, the Royce Auditorium crowd roared back in approval when Redman and his trio mates — Marcus Gilmore on drums and Matt Penman on bass — flowed from one jazz focal point to another. (I think there were some who wished the stayed traditional, but not I or my wife.)
In the 90+ minute set, Redman and the boys opened with Oscar Petterson’s “Tricotism” and a totally “twisted” — his word — version of Bruce Bowman’s “East of the Sun” that only the very knowledgable ear could discern.
From there Redman showed his composing chops along with his playing chops, with his “Back from Burma/Blues for Myanmar”, “Second Date” and a double-dip of “Interval Training” and “Blues for Down the Line” — the latter being about as straight ahead as you get.
A sweet take on Duke Ellington’s “Prelude to a Kiss” followed, along with a twisted reimagining of Sonny Rollins almost “jazz waltz” — again, his words — “Valse Hot”, which Redman called “Valse Hotter”, followed by a totally unrecognizable reworking of a classic piece he simply called “opus something”.
For the encore, Redman returned to his charts and the familiar with “Pimples and Dimples.”
The tune-swings of Redman and his bandmates might have been personal whim, or simply their stretching their varied musical muscles in what Redman admitted was just his sixth live gig in 23 months. (Which was probably about the same timespan that many in the audience last heard jazz at St. Cecilia.)
But whether straight ahead or neo/new, Redman and the boys were welcome sounds.
And that is just the beginning …
The venue, and the local jazz audience, will get another feast of music on stage in February as St. Cecilia will also debut Winterfest, a three-day winter jazz festival featuring host Christian McBride “and Friends” Feb. 24-26.
(The SCMC jazz series will also include Dee Dee Bridgewater and Bill Charlap on March 10, and Delfeayo Marsalis and the Uptown Jazz Orchestra on April 14.)
Some might argue that bassist extraordinaire McBride was also one of the “Young Lions” of the ‘90s, as his genre wide-ranging musical career is firmly grounded in the jazz — he was named as the artistic director of the Mecca of jazz, the Newport Jazz Festival. (Where I first saw him play, in the early 2000s. Ya. I’m venue droppin’ …)
And Redman and McBride are no strangers to the same stage as well, as the two teamed with pianist Brad Mehldau and drummer Brian Blade on the original Joshua Redman Quartet (a group that reunited to release the Grammy-nominated album “RoundAgain” in 2020, and will be touring together later this year).
For complete information on all shows at St. Cecilia, visit scmc-online.org.
This is a perfect time to check out World of Winter in downtown Grand Rapids. Plenty of activities are planned today through March 6.
But, if you want to escape winter, and you’re more focused on summer, it’s also a good weekend to go downtown Grand Rapids for the annual camper and RV show. It’s only a few months away from warmer days.
I also talk a little about basketball and “Star Wars,” two of my favorite passions.
It’s all in my Gonzo’s Top 5, exclusively on WKTV Journal.
Have a great, safe weekend.
Here we go.
Gonzo’s Top 5
From a previous year’s City of Kentwood Daddy-Daughter Dance, which this year will be expanded to be an “all family” dance. (WKTV)
5. Daddy Daughter Dance
Pre-registration is sold out for this event as kids bring their dads, moms, grandparents or other relatives as their “date” to a Winter Wonderland theme on Saturday (Jan. 22) at Kentwood Library, 4950 Breton SE. Organizers are accepting names over the phone for the waiting list and will notify if there are cancellations. Call 616-656-5270 to be added to the waitlist. More info at https://www.kentwood.us/events_detail_T53_R52.php.
4. Grand Rapids Gold ‘Star Wars’ Night
If you’re a “Star Wars” fan looking for an excuse to see a Grand Rapids Gold basketball game, then head out to “Star Wars” Night on Saturday (Jan. 22) at the DeltaPlex Arena. “Help the Gold channel the force and take down the Fort Wayne Mad Ants,” says the team. The first 500 fans in the door will receive a free lightsaber. And anyone who wears a Star Wars costume or merch gets a free ticket to the game. Doors open at 6 p.m. The game tips off at 7 p.m. Also, the Saturday $44 Four-Pack special is available. Fans get four tickets, four hot dogs and four sodas for $44.. More details at https://grandrapids.gleague.nba.com/star-wars-night/.
3. The Harlem Globetrotters
Speaking of basketball, one of my favorite memories as a dad and coach was taking my middle school basketball team to see the iconic Harlem Globetrotters in action. One year we even had a player come to practice to show off their skills. I promise you this is an experience the kids will never forget. The Globetrotters perform at 2 p.m. Sunday (Jan. 23) at Van Andel Arena. More information and ticket information at www.vanandelarena.com.
2. World of Winter Weekend
As part of the World of Winter in downtown Grand Rapids, musical performances and other forms of entertainment will take place throughout downtown from 6-8 p.m. Friday (Jan. 21). You will find these performers throughout the neighborhoods, just in time to grab a drink or a bite at a restaurant or bar. Also this weekend, a pop-up circus performance, curated by GR Circus, takes place from 6-8 p.m. Saturday (Jan. 22) at Ah-Nab-Awen Park near the Gerald R. Ford Museum. You can enjoy live fire performers, hula hoopers, aerial acts, juggling, stilt walking, and more. On Sunday (Jan. 23) enjoy a walking art installation tour. More details on all events at https://worldofwintergr.com/events. World of Winter continues through March 6.
Grand Rapids Camper, Travel & RV Show
When you factor in a dozen West Michigan RV dealers representing more than 100 RV lines combined with 200,000-plus square feet, you get one of the biggest RV Shows in the state. The Grand Rapids Camper, Travel & RV Show also features a great selection of RV accessories, as well as campground and travel destinations. The show is today-Sunday (Jan. 23) at DeVos Place Convention Center in Grand Rapids. Tickets are $12 for adults and $5 for children ages 6-14. A Family Zone area for kids is available Saturday and Sunday. Join us Saturday morning at the show, from 9:30 – 11 a.m., for Also, a pancake breakfast to benefit the Cran-Hill Ranch Summer Camp Scholarship Fund is open from 9:30-11 a.m. Saturday. Cost is $5 for adults or $3 for kids and includes all you can eat pancakes, sausage, coffee and orange drink. For more details about the show go to https://showspan.com/GRV/.
That’s it for now.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe weekend.
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.
Highlighting lesser known works of Winslow Homer — one of the most significant American artists of the 19th Century — the Muskegon Museum of Art opened a new exhibition, “Winslow Homer: Illustrating a Nation”, last week and it will be on display through March 20.
Homer was famed for his dramatic depictions of people and nature, as well as his illustrations of day-to-day life, including the battles of the Civil War which were published in Harper’s Weekly, a New York City based illustrated magazine that extensively covered the American Civil War.
The exhibition features several of Homer’s best known images from the era, including “The Noon Recess”, “Snap the Whip”, “A Sharpshooter on Picket Duty”, and “The Dinner Horn” — a companion image to the MMA’s oil painting “Answering the Horn”. Other works in the exhibition depict illustrations of leisure, work, and the everyday lives of people, as well as dramatic scenes and circumstances.
In 1861, Harper’s Weekly assigned Homer to illustrate the events of the Civil War, which brought his work to the forefront of the nation. Homer captured the day-to-day events of the war, illustrating battles, soldiers in conflict and at rest, and the effects of the war on the families at home. Today, the Harper’s Weekly illustrations serve as a direct record of the events of the Civil War.
The Muskegon Museum of Art is located at 296 W. Webster Ave. For more information visit muskegonartmuseum.org.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum’s (GRPM) Saturday Investigation Classes will be offered to the public during the month of March.
The Saturday Investigation classes will be offered in March. (Supplied)
Visitors ages eight and older are encouraged to sign up for these small-group, hands-on educational classes to investigate science and history. Saturday Investigations transform the Museum into a learning lab, giving the public an exclusive experience through behind-the-scenes exhibit exploration, artifact investigation, engaging activities and more. This experience is great for children and parents or guardians to work together, or for older kids and adults to join.
Classes will take place on Saturdays from March 5 to March 26 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. at the Museum. The cost of Saturday Investigations follow the cost of the Museum’s general admission, including free general admission for kids 17 and younger. Classes are limited to 20 registrants per session, registration is required. Once classes conclude, visitors are able to explore the Museum’s three floors of exhibits. For more information on Saturday Investigation Classes and to register today, visit grpm.org/EduClasses.
Class offerings include Fossil Hunters, Travel Back in Time to the Streets of Old Grand Rapids, Sturgeon Excursion and What’s in Your River? Registrants can dig into mysteries of the Earth, indulge in another exciting, augmented reality game that guides participants through the Streets of Old Grand Rapids exhibit, play an exclusive augmented reality game that integrates with Museum exhibits and become environmental scientists while learning about the Grand River.
The Chamber Music Society (CMS) of Lincoln Center musicians scheduled to perform include, clockwise from top left, co-Artistic Director and pianist Wu Han, violinist Aaron Boyd, violinist Danbi Um, violist Paul Neubauer, violist Timothy Riout and cellist Sihao He. (Supplied)
St. Cecilia Music Center is celebrating 10 seasons of partnership with Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, and local chamber music fans will likely be celebrating Jan. 27 as the series’ second concert of the 2021-22 season, “Romantic Perspectives” will feature music of Brahms, Mahler, Dvorak, and Franck.
The Chamber Music Society (CMS) of Lincoln Center musicians scheduled to perform include co-Artistic Director and pianist Wu Han, violinist Aaron Boyd, violinist Danbi Um, violist Paul Neubauer, violist Timothy Riout and cellist Sihao He.
Wu Han and other members of the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center will be in concert at St. Cecilia Music Center. (Supplied/Lisa-marie Mazzucco)
“To hear the exquisite blend of six outstanding Chamber Music musicians performing the works of Brahms, Mahler, Dvorak and Franck will be a captivating highlight of this monumental season,” Cathy Holbrook, St. Cecilia Music Center (SCMC) executive and artistic director, said in supplied material.
The final concert of the St. Cecilia chamber music series will be March 31 and will feature George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue”, as well as music by Maurice Ravel, Darius Milhaud, and Wynton Marsalis.
Tickets for CMS of Lincoln Center concerts can be purchased online at scmc-online.org or by calling St. Cecilia Music Center at 616-459-2224.
‘Romantic Perspectives’ background and program
The Romantic movement in classical music blossomed across Europe during the 19th Century, as stated in supplied material, and was “fueled by the vision of Beethoven, the poetry of Schubert, and the hyper-emotionalism of Schumann, composers tapped their inner selves, often deeply inspired by their native cultures.”
Johannes Brahms, declared to be the heir to the mantle of Beethoven, adhered to the discipline of the classical age, yet, few have ever composed more romantically and with such passion. Gustav Mahler, whose symphonies expanded music’s horizon by leaps and bounds, penned his only work of chamber music, an achingly beautiful movement, as an idealistic student.
And César Franck, the lion of French romantic composers, brought all his sensuousness and seriousness to this epic quintet, one of the literature’s most cherished masterpieces.
The program includes:
Johannes Brahms (1833 – 1897), Scherzo, WoO 2, from “F-A-E” Sonata for Violin and Piano (1853).
Gustav Mahler (1860 – 1911), Quartet in A minor for Piano, Violin, Viola, and Cello (1876)
Antonin Dvorak (1841 – 1904), Quintet in A minor for Two Violins, Two Violas, and Cello, Op. 1 (1861)
Cesar Franck (1822 – 1890), Quintet in F minor for Piano, Two Violins, Viola, and Cello (1879)
SCMC special pandemic precautions
SCMC currently requires proof of fully vaccinated status, or a negative COVID test taken within 72 hours, to attend a concert at the SCMC venue. Attendees need to bring photo ID and proof of vaccination, or a negative test, the night of a concert. Home tests are not accepted. All patrons will be required to wear a mask while in the building for the duration of the concert.
All ticket holders will be notified if mandatory mask requirements are in effect for a particular show by an artist. If you a have tickets to an upcoming performance and are unwilling or unable to abide by this policy, please contact the SCMC box office for a refund at kelly@scmc-online.org a minimum of 48 hours prior to the concert date.
For complete information on all shows at St. Cecilia, visit scmc-online.org.
In World War I women were accepted into the Navy to serve in limited roles, such as the nurses depicted on this poster engaged in the rehabilitation of returnees.(Poster by unknown artist, circa 1925. Supplied)
The Naval Reserve Act of 1916 lead to formal permission to begin enlisting women in mid-March 1917, shortly before the United States entered the “Great War.” (Oil painting by Anne Fuller Abbott, 1925. Supplied)
One of the most prolific and well-recognized artists to contribute to the Navy’s recruitment campaign, especially the recruitment of WAVES, John Philip Falter created over 300 designs for Naval recruitment posters during WW II.(Oil painting for poster, by John Philip Falter, circa 1943. Supplied)
The single stripe on this WAVE’s shoulder signifies that she is an Ensign. To meet wartime needs, some members of the Hospital Corps in the enlisted ratings were appointed to the commissioned ranks of Ensign, Lieutenant (Junior grade), and Lieutenant for temporary service. (Oil painting for poster by John Philip Falter, circa 1944. Supplied)
This painting serves to depict the introduction of women to sea duty aboard ships in the US Navy. Before this only nurses had served on ships at sea. The first women to come aboard USS Sanctuary (AH-17) where line officer Lt. (Junior grade) Ann E Kerr and the first enlisted PN3 Peggy Sue Griffith. (Oil painting by George Gibson, Jr., 1973. Supplied)
Upon returning from harrowing service in the Philippines at Bataan and an evacuation from Corregidor on USS Spearfish (SS-190), Lt. (Junior grade) Ann Bernatitus of the Nurse Corps, received a hero’s welcome from her hometown in Pennsylvania, complete with parade and dinner at the local high school. (Oil painting on Canvas by Albert K. Murray, 1942. Supplied)
Capt. Joan Bynum, the Navy’s first African-American female captain, achieved that rank in 1979 in the Nurse Corps. (Pencil drawing by (enlisted petty officer) DM1 Erick Marshall Murray, 1997. Supplied)
About 37,000 American women took part in the Persian Gulf War, the largest deployment of women in history. Ten percent of these women were Navy personnel. They served on support ships — ammunition, supply, tenders, and oilers — and in Military Sealift and Combat Logistics Force vessels. Others were in helicopter combat support squadrons, construction battalions, and in a cargo-handling and port unit at Bahrain. (Oil painting by John Charles Roach, 1991. Supplied)
Seabee Power. (Oil painting by Morgan Ian Wilbur, 2016. Supplied)
Women have served in a variety of roles, and worn a variety of uniforms, in the U.S. Navy — from sailors to admirals, from Yeomen to aviators; in peacetime and in harm’s way.
And they, too, deserve a salute of honor and gratitude. President Gerald Ford, a Navy man himself, knew that fact.
“For my part, I will do everything I can to see that our service men and women continue to receive the recognition and respect that is their due,” President Ford said in 1975. “They have earned it.”
Working with the Naval History and Heritage Command, and the Naval Art Gallery, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum will open a new exhibit “Women in Uniform” Jan. 24, and public is able to visit the museum in-person with some pandemic protocols.
The exhibit, which will run through May 6, will open with a Jan. 24, 7 p.m., Zoom event featuring Rear Admiral (retired) Samuel J. Cox, Director of Naval History and Heritage Command, and his colleague, Gale Munro, Curator of the Naval Art Gallery. The two will present a program giving a brief history of the role women played in naval history and also give background on selected works from the exhibition.
(Public registration for the Zoom is available on the Ford Museum’s website at fordlibrarymuseum.gov.)
In peace and in war
The “Women in Uniform” exhibition showcases rarely displayed art from the Naval History and Heritage Command’s collection.
Women have had a continuous, and growing presence, in uniform throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, as stated in exhibit material. Whenever international or domestic events dictated the need, the Navy expanded its opportunities for women to serve.
These artworks demonstrate the wide-ranging and varied occupations women have held as they continue to push the boundaries of prospects available to them.
From a Yeoman in World War I to an aviator, from a sailor to an admiral, this exhibition features works of art that depict female Navy military personnel.
The first large-scale employment of women as Naval personnel took place to meet the severe clerical shortages of the World War I era. The Naval Reserve Act of 1916 had conspicuously omitted mention of gender as a condition for service, leading to formal permission to begin enlisting women in mid-March 1917, shortly before the United States entered the “Great War”. Nearly 600 female Yeomen were on duty by the end of April 1917, a number that had grown to over 11,000 in December 1918, shortly after the Armistice.
In years of peace, and wars — including World War II — women continued to enlist and serve in the Navy, including up to the 2000s.
About 37,000 American women took part in the Persian Gulf War, the largest deployment of women in history. Ten percent of these women were Navy personnel. They served on support ships — ammunition, supply, tenders, and oilers — and in Military Sealift and Combat Logistics Force vessels. Others were in helicopter combat support squadrons, construction battalions, and in a cargo-handling and port unit at Bahrain.
While the exhibit is open to the public, in-person, tickets must be purchased in advance, online. The museum’s COVID pandemic health and safety protocols are listed on the museum’s website.
Recently announced was the purchase of the CANarchy Collective, which includes West Michigan based Perrin Brewing, by Monster Beverage Corporation. (Amy Sherman)
Another major Michigan brewery buyout/acquisition occurred this week, with Monster Beverage Corporation announcing that they would be purchasing the CANarchy Craft Brewery Collective, which includes Comstock Park based Perrin Brewing Company. CANarchy was formed in 2015, as a group of like-minded breweries came together to share capital, distribution networks, beers and products to the market in a new, collaborative company. Members, in addition to Perrin, include Oskar Blues Brewery, Cigar City Brewing, Squatters Craft Beers, Wasatch Brewery, Deep Ellum Brewing Company, and Revitalyte. The group is considered the sixth largest craft brewery in the country.
Monster is purchasing the group for $330 million, in an all cash deal. This will be the energy drink maker’s first foray into the alcoholic beverage market. What does this mean for West Michigan? While Perrin declined to comment at this time, we can say that the sale does not include their pub in Comstock Park, so you should be able to continue to enjoy a burger and beer there. In the future, it probably won’t change much of what is on the shelves here, but may help Perrin get out to a larger national audience.
Locally brewed gluten-free beer is finally here
Brewery Nyx, Michigan’s first dedicated gluten-free brewery is right here in Grand Rapids, and now has beers on the shelves of local retailers. Founded by business partners Jessica Stricklen and Sebastian Van Bommel, the brewery has a production facility in the southwestern part of the city, and can be found on the shelves at Bridge Street Market, and certain D&W’s, with more retail to follow as production ramps up.
Gluten-free Brewery Nyx is finally on the shelves in West Michigan, and it’s been worth the wait. (Photo courtesy of Brewery Nyx)
Stricklen, who has been gluten-free for 10 years, loves craft beer, but couldn’t find a Michigan one that was truly up to her standards. She and Van Bommel, who is the head brewer, decided from the beginning that their beers needed to be able to go head-to-head with regular brews. Instead of trying to strip the gluten from a beer made with barley, they are brewing their beers right from the start with gluten free grains like amaranth and quinoa. The resulting beers are every bit as full bodied as any regular beer, with incredible aroma, big mouthfeel, and great flavor. You would be hard pressed to tell these gluten-free brews from a regular one.
Right now Brewery Nyx is in limited distribution only. Although they have plans to open a tasting room in the future, the goal right now is to just get the product out on shelves. If you are lucking enough to find some, don’t get surprised at the price. Yes, these four packs are more than your typical local craft beer, but it is absolutely necessary. The ingredients they use to make this beer can costs up to four times more than traditional brewing ingredients. But if you are gluten-free, and have been missing that precious pint of local beer, Brewery Nyx is a gift from the celiac gods.
Larry Bell named Environmentalist of the Year
Don’t mess with Larry Bell might be the message here, and with very good reason. The Bell’s Brewery founder, who recently announced a sale of the family owned company to New Belgium Brewing, was named the Sierra Club of Michigan’s Environmentalist of the Year for 2021. Bell’s work to protect the Kalamazoo River, as well as his battle to shut down Enbridge’s Line 5 oil pipeline, made him the first business owner chosen for the award in its thirty year history.
“Larry Bell’s fact-based, non-partisan and pragmatic advocacy has illuminated the dangers of the ticking time bomb that threatens the Great Lakes every day Line 5 is allowed to operate in the Straits of Mackinac,” said Gail Philbin, Sierra Club Michigan Chapter state director said via a press release. “He and other visionary leaders in the Great Lakes Business Network are indispensable voices for businesses who understand how vital it is that we protect our Great Lakes.”
Bell began his environmental work after the 2010 Enbridge oil spill in Kalamazoo threatened his Comstock production brewery. Enbridge decided to store toxic sledge in the area, without letting officials know, or pulling any of the necessary permits. Bell sued Enbridge, and then created the Great Lakes Business Network, to help shut down Enbridge’s Line 5, an oil pipeline that runs through the Straights of Mackinac.
“When the spill happened 30 miles away from us, the oil came down the Kalamazoo River and started impacting us,” recalled Bell, via the release. “Our eyes were opened. Then we found out there was this pipeline in the Straits of Mackinac. It was unbelievable that this company owned those pipelines in the Straits. I said, ‘Hell, yes, I’m in.’”
Bell said he plans to increase his environmental work, now that he has sold his brewery. “I can be stronger now in my sentiments and work harder for the causes I care about,” said Bell.
Small Pours from West Michigan breweries:
Mitten Brewing Company on Leonard St in Grand Rapids has reopened and expanded their outdoor dining area known as Base Camp. (Courtesy photo provided by Mitten Brewing Company)
Founders Brewing is hosting their famous Cellar Raid, from Jan. 26 to 30, at both their taproom in Grand Rapids as well as Detroit. The event features taproom exclusive, small batch, barrel-aged, and even some never before seen beers. The brewery will release tap lists each day, and all the beer is available on a first come, first served basis. There will be special food pairings available as well. On Saturday, Jan. 29, there will be live music from Oracle.
Railtown Brewing in Dutton revealed a new winter food menu on Monday January 17. According to the brewery, “it’s chili season.”
Cedar Springs Brewing Company has its winter Biergarten open, and is offering live music most nights of the week. You can see the full listing of who’s playing weekly on the brewing company’s Facebook page.
Arvon Brewing in Grand Rapids just celebrated its second anniversary, and have several special brews on tap and available to-go to honor this special occasion. Stop by the brewery on Division to see what’s still pouring.
Broad Leaf Brewery is hosting a special “vegan weekend,” Jan. 21 – 23. The special food menu will feature “munchies” from Chef Gabe. Featured will be chicken fried seitan, Tot-chos, French bread pizza, a carrot corn dog, and a dirt cup dessert. There will also be a limited regular menu.
City Built Brewing continues to host their pop-up Li Grande Zombie, a special menu offered weekends at the brewery featuring Creole and Cajun cuisine. They announce the menu on Facebook each week. Look for things like crawfish étouffée with chicken fat biscuits, and a mean fried hot chicken sandwich. Each Monday, look for local favorite StreetChefShaw to be throwing down some of his famous tacos on site.
Creston Brewery recently opened for brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. The menu features classic breakfasts like pancakes and a breakfast burrito, as well as lunch offerings like oven baked mac and cheese, and a cheeseburger. There’s also a kids menu, which includes a pancake mountain, which sounds hard to beat.
Bier Distillery in Comstock Park has a new special, Thirsty Thursdays. All 8 of distillery’s burgers are $2 off, and draft pours are 50% off. They also have live Irish music each Thursday.
Wednesday Jan. 19, stop by 3 Gatos Brewery in Wyoming for a special trivia night featuring the television show “The Office.” Get there early as it starts at 7 p.m.
ELK Brewing announced the close of their Comstock Park brew pub this week. Their tasting room on Wealthy Street in Grand Rapids will remain open.
I think we’re all ready for Spring Break or even Mid-Winter Break.
At least we have MLK Day (Monday, Jan. 17), which is a Federal holiday, but more than just a day off.
In honor of Martin Luther King, Jr’.s birthday, and ideals, it is meant to empower individuals, strengthen communities, bridge barriers, create solutions to social problems, and move us closer to Dr. King’s vision of a “Beloved Community.”
We all need that.
In the meantime, let’s look at things to do this weekend in my Gonzo’s Top 5, exclusively on WKTV Journal.
5. Pop Up Disc Golf
It might be 40 degrees. It might be below zero. Who knows this time of year? Well, if you’re a disc golf enthusiast, you don’t care too much. You love being outdoors. That’s why you might want to know about a Pop Up Disc Golf event from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday (Jan. 29) at Covenant Park, 3724 Shaffer Ave. SE, in Kentwood. This is a fun, nine-hole disc golf course. There is no cost to participate, but you must bring your own discs. Restrooms will be available in the clubhouse. This event was supposed to be this weekend, but was changed because of the frigid temperatures. Presented by City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department. More info on the Facebook event page.
4.Maple Hill Golf – Huge Golf LIquidation Sale
Speaking of a different kind of golf, the one where I yell “Heads Up” all the time, golf lovers can head out this weekend to the DeltaPlex in Walker for this huge liquidation sale. Presented by Maple Hill Golf, more than $2 million worth of equipment will be for sale. This year’s event marks the 22nd year of the sale, and the first year at the DeltaPlex. Hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday, and 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. Admission is $5. Ages 12 and younger free. More info at www.deltaplex.com.
3. Public Skate at Van Andel Arena
If you have missed free skating at Rosa Parks Circle this winter, it’s back this weekend. No, the construction project is still going on, but thanks to the city’s parks and recreation department, Downtown Grand Rapids, Inc. (DGRI) and Van Andel Arena, free skating is available on Sunday (Jan. 16) at Van Andel Arena. You must reserve a skating time, but walk ups are an option. Each session is 90 minutes and open to 150 skaters. (100 skating spots are reservable, with the remaining 50 available for walk-up skating on a first-come first-served basis.) Go online to reserve up to six skaters at a time, HERE. Group reservations should only be made with people in the same household as the registrant. Visitors may bring their own skates. Rentals are available. Hockey equipment, such as hockey sticks and pucks, are not allowed on the ice. Hours are 2-3:30 p.m., 4-5:30 p.m., and 6-7:30 p.m.
By the way, the Grand Rapids Griffins are in town Friday and Saturday. Games are at 7 p.m. each night. More info at https://www.vanandelarena.com/events.
We are all jumping for joy that theater has returned. “Hairspray” comes to DeVos Performance Hall this week. (Photo by Jeremy Daniel)
2. “Hairspray”
Despite postponing opening night because of COVID concerns among the touring cast, the Broadway production of “Hairspray” opened Wednesday night to great reviews. Fans loved the show, as well as the return of major tours to Grand Rapids. It’s been nearly two years since Broadway Grand Rapids has been able to present a show. “Hairspray” continues through Monday, Jan. 17 at DeVos Performance Hall. (Monday’s show is the rescheduled date for the Jan. 11 postponement.) For ticket information and showtimes, go to devosperformancehall.com.
As part of its Martin Luther King Jr. Day community service project, the city will be collecting donations for its Little Free Pantry locations. (Supplied)
Unity Walk to Honor MLK
The City of Kentwood was supposed to host a unity walk in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. at 9 a.m. Saturday (Jan. 15), but it has been changed “due to the frigid temperatures forecasted for this weekend, we’ve made the difficult decision to postpone Saturday’s Unity Walk. We will share information about the rescheduled event once details are finalized.”
Organizers had hoped to help Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry with collecting canned goods after the walk. In a Facebook post, they said: “We hope you’ll still help stock Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry, which began in 2017 as an MLK Day community service project. We’re accepting canned goods and other non-perishable items at the Kentwood Activities Center 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday. More information, including a list of suggested donations, is available at kentwood.us/LittleFreePantry.”
That’s it for now.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe weekend.
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.
We are all jumping for joy that theater has returned. “Hairspray” comes to DeVos Performance Hall this week. (Photo by Jeremy Daniel)
By John D. Gonzalez WKTV Contributing Writer
UPDATE: The Tuesday show has been rescheduled for Monday, Jan. 17. Contact Broadway Grand Rapids for more information.
NOTE: We regret to report that the Tuesday, Jan. 11, performance of “Hairspray” at DeVos Performance Hall is postponed due to positive COVID cases within the company. At this time, all other performances, Wednesday — Sunday, will play as scheduled. We apologize for the disappointment and inconvenience this scheduling change has caused Tuesday night ticket holders. Please hold onto your tickets while we work to rescheduled the show. Details will be sent to affected ticket holders by email as soon as they’re available.
It will take 16-year-old Tracy Turnblad as she sets out to dance her way onto TV’s most popular show to bring Broadway theater back to Grand Rapids.
“After two long years, we are excited to finally be back in the theater and have the inspiring support of so many in the community,” said Mike Lloyd, interim executive director at Broadway Grand Rapids.
“We expect 15,000 people to attend ‘Hairspray’ this week. What a perfect show to open the season, heartwarming and fun.”
“Hairspray” opens Tuesday (Jan. 11) at DeVos Performance Hall for eight performances over six days to kick off the 2021-2022 season at Broadway Grand Rapids.
In addition, Broadway Grand Rapids has announced $30 Student/Educator Rush tickets for all performances of “Hairspray.” A valid school ID is required, and the limit is two tickets per student/educator. All tickets are subject to availability. Tickets may be purchased in-person one hour prior to the performance at the DeVos Performance Hall Box Office at 303 Monroe Ave NW.
Health and Safety protocols, including proof of vaccination or negative COVID-19 test as well as mandatory masks, will be in effect.
Set in 1960s Baltimore, “Hairspray” centers on Tracy Turnblad, a girl with big dreams – and even bigger hair – who wants to change the world.
The reviews have been stellar. The New York Times said: “‘Hairspray’ is fresh, winning, and deliriously tuneful!”
The “Hairspray” cast is led by Andrew Levitt aka Nina West (from “RuPaul’s Drag Race”) as Edna Turnblad, Niki Metcalf as Tracy Turnblad and Toneisha Harris (from NBC’s “The Voice”) as Motormouth Maybelle and features the beloved score of hit songs including “Welcome to the 60’s,” “Good Morning Baltimore” and “You Can’t Stop the Beat.” according to the company’s website.
This all-new touring production reunites Broadway’s award-winning creative team led by director Jack O’Brien and choreographer Jerry Mitchell.
Niki Metcalf is Tracy Turnblad in “Hairspray” at DeVos Performance Hall this week. (Photo by Jeremy Daniel)
“It’s a brand-new world we find ourselves in today, and ‘Hairspray’ is meeting this challenge full-on with even more joy and purpose. Our fable of ‘The Little Dancing Engine That Could’ is even more relevant than twenty years ago when it first burst onto the scene,” said O’Brien in a release.
“With the renewed, refreshed energy of the unforgettable Nina West as Edna and a whole new generation of wildly talented kids across the board, we cannot wait to raise the various roofs once more with dance, joy, music, and that glorious, famous, energy-packed score! Come feel great and grateful once more!” he added.
Choreographer Jerry Mitchell said: “‘Hairspray’ has always been about all of us dancing together! I am thrilled to welcome this new company of amazing #FULLOUT talents to lead the way as we dance across America with a message of inclusion and hope because ‘You really Can’t Stop the Beat!’”
What a stretch of weather? How are you doing? It’s like we need another day off just to recover from all of this snow. Thank you to all those who had to work outside to make our lives more safe. We appreciate you.
How were your holidays? It seems like so long ago.
We had a great time with a house full of kids, grandkids, parents and in-laws. We loved every minute of it.
As you prepare for a new year, and resolutions, let’s look at some of the things to do the first full weekend of 2022 in my Gonzo’s Top 5, exclusively on WKTV Journal.
5. La Furia Del Ritmo Original at The Stray
Local act La Furia Del Ritmo Original is performing a show and also debuting a new video, “Besos Marcado,” at 6 p.m. Saturday at The Stray, 4253 S Division Ave., Wyoming. If your goal is to experience local music, especially banda music, here is your chance. The show is free for all ages thanks to Poncho’s Tacos GR. More info on La Furia Del Ritmo Original Facebook page.
4. Pop Scholars Improv
Love comedy improv? Pop Scholars Improv is a fast-paced 2-hour show that doesn’t go for the easy laugh. It will impress you with their wit and on-stage chemistry. The show is at 8 p.m. tonight (Jan. 7) at Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St. SE, in Grand Rapids. Doors open at 7 p.m. You must be vaccinated and wear a mask to attend. Organizers are also reducing capacity for social distancing. Tickets are $14 general admission at grcmc.org. Check out the event Facebook page for more info.
3. GRPD vs. GRFD Charity Hockey Game
Raise money for a good cause when the Grand Rapids Fire Department takes on the Grand Rapids Police Department in this charity game at 12:30 p.m. Saturday (Jan.8) at Van Andel Arena. The game benefits the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Attendees also get specially-priced tickets to the Grand Rapids Griffins’ game later that night at 7 p.m. Get ticket and more info at griffinshockey.com/grfd-vs-grpd. (The Griffins also play at 7 p.m. Friday.)
Photo supplied by Jurassic Quest.
2. Dinosaurs in Grand Rapids
The largest and most realistic dinosaur exhibit in North America – “Jurassic Quest” – returns to Grand Rapids this weekend (Jan. 7-9) at DeVos Place. In a recent story on WKTV Journal, we reported that the exhibit is an indoor family education and entertainment show that features more than 100 life-like dinosaurs, dinosaur-themed rides, live dinosaur shows, and interactive science and art activities. There also will be a Triceratots soft play area, bounce houses, and inflatable attractions. Tickets are $22 for adults and children and $19 for seniors. There is also a $36-dollar ticket for kids unlimited rides. Tickets do include a 100 percent guarantee of refund if the show is canceled or postponed for any reason. For more about the event or to purchase tickets, visit www.jurassicquest.com.
It’s like they planned for all this snow! The World of Winter Festival kicks off today (Jan. 7) and provides interesting ways for people to experience and enjoy the season. All programming and activities are free and geared for both families and adults. It will continue through March 6 and is organized by Downtown Grand Rapids Inc., the City of Grand Rapids and numerous community partners. See a complete schedule of events at worldofwintergr.com.
That’s it for now.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe weekend.
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.
Joshua Redman has a long list of impressive credentials on his musician resume, including being nominated for eight GRAMMY awards. But before that he had an equally impressive educational resume, including being a 1991 graduate from Harvard College after which he was accepted to Yale Law School.
But anybody who has seen him on stage, blowing his saxophone and conversing with the crowd, over the years of his now 30+ year career of playing, recording and writing music, knows he is a jazz man thorough and through.
If you already know, or are yet to find out, local jazz fans will undoubtedly get proof positive Jan. 22 on St. Cecilia ’s Royce Auditorium Stage when Redman and his trio lead off St. Cecilia Music Center’s Jazz Series as the first of three concerts in January, March and April.
And, least we forget, St. Cecilia will also debut Winterfest, a three-day winter jazz festival featuring host Christian McBride “and Friends” Feb. 24-26.
Joshua Redman Quartet (Supplied)
“We are so excited to launch four months of great jazz performances this year beginning with Joshua Redman,” Cathy Holbrook, St. Cecilia executive and artistic director, said in supplied material. “Joshua is one of the most talented and sought-after jazz performers around. Along with a prolific body of celebrated recordings over 25 years, Redman has worked with countless jazz contemporaries as a follow performer and bandleader.”
With the concert set to start at 7:30 p.m., tickets for Redman and his band can be purchased online at scmc-online.org or by calling St. Cecilia Music Center (SCMC) at 616-459-2224.
In addition to Redman, the SCMC Jazz Series includes Dee Dee Bridgewater and Bill Charlap on March 10, and Delfeayo Marsalis and the Uptown Jazz Orchestra on April 14. The first-ever WinterFest jazz program – three consecutive nights of jazz — will be hosted by GRAMMY-winning jazz bassist Christian McBride and feature the Christian McBride Trio, singer Cyrille Aimee, fellow bassist Edgar Meyer, and McBride’s legendary quintet Inside Straight.
Redman and his musical journey
Jazz fans can be a little prickly when it comes to their definition of the musical genre, but a supplied quote from JamBase does have a point when they say “When the conversation ensues about who is carrying on the great tradition of jazz musicianship today … if Joshua Redman’s name does not come up, the conversation is not worth having.”
The innovative saxophonist has made believers of critics and fans alike with his live performances and acclaimed recordings. One of his many-faceted musical ventures, The Joshua Redman Quartet, released an album titled “Come What May” in 2019. But his list of jazz collaborations over the years include ones ranging from McCoy Tyner to Brad Mehldau.
Joshua Redman, from a 2019 concert. (Supplied/Lisa Siciliano)
And the members for the original Joshua Redman Quartet are like a who’s who of the genre — Redman saxophone), Brad Mehldau on piano), Christian McBride on bass, and Brian Blade on drums —a group reunited to release the Grammy-nominated album “RoundAgain” in July 2020.
The son of legendary saxophonist Dewey Redman and dancer Renee Shedroff. Joshua Redman was exposed at an early age by his parents to many genres of music — the story goes — jazz, classical, rock, soul, Indian, Indonesian, Middle Eastern, and African. He was also introduced to a variety of instruments: recorder, piano, guitar, gatham and gamelan. (I had to look those last two up too … they are south Indian and Indonesian percussion instruments.)
After starting off playing clarinet at nine years old, Redman switched to what is his primary instrument, the tenor saxophone. So, of course, his stated early influences were John Coltrane, Ornette Coleman, Cannonball Adderley and his father. But, the story goes, academics were always his priority and he never seriously considered becoming a professional musician until he graduated from Harvard and followed some musician friends to New York City in the 1990s.
Things just sort of rolled on from there.
He began jamming and gigging regularly with some of the leading jazz musicians of his generation — Roy Hargrove, to name just one — and five months after moving to New York, Redman was named the winner of the prestigious Thelonious Monk International Saxophone Competition.
And things just sort of rolled on from there. Lucky us.
In addition to his own projects, Redman has recorded and performed with musicians as diverse as such as Chick Corea and The Dave Matthews Band, Quincy Jones and The Rolling Stones. And along the way he wrote and performed the music for Louis Malle’s final film “Vanya on 42nd Street “ and is both seen and heard in the Robert Altman film “Kansas City”.
SCMC special pandemic precautions
SCMC currently requires proof of fully vaccinated status, or a negative COVID test taken within 72 hours, to attend a concert at the SCMC venue. Attendees need to bring photo ID and proof of vaccination, or a negative test, the night of a concert. Home tests are not accepted. All patrons will be required to wear a mask while in the building for the duration of the concert.
All ticket holders will be notified if mandatory mask requirements are in effect for a particular show by an artist. If you a have tickets to an upcoming performance and are unwilling or unable to abide by this policy, please contact the SCMC box office for a refund at kelly@scmc-online.org a minimum of 48 hours prior to the concert date.
For complete information on all shows at St. Cecilia, visit scmc-online.org.
This alien statue is part of the “POPnology” exhibit at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. (Supplied)
Two exhibits at the Grand Rapids Art Museum will be coming to a close at the end of the month, “Bats; Masters of the Night” and “POPnology” as the Museum makes way for two new exhibits to open in the spring.
“Bats,” which is included with admission, works to dispel the myths about these creatures of the night with interactive displays that demonstrate how to hear like a bat, learn about pollination, bat diets, and sonar ability. The “POPnology,” is a sci-fi experience as it looks at how pop culture meets technology with the exhibit including the DeLorean Time Machine, R2D2, E.T. and more. The “POPnology” exhibit is $5 per person in addition to admission.
Also closing on Jan. 23 is the “Windows GR” paintings. The Museum purchased the paintings by local artists of color as part of the Windows GR activation project. Five of these works are now part of the GRPM’s permanent Collections and can be viewed at grpmcollections.org.
Opening in the spring will be “Prerosaurs: Flight in the Age of Dinosaurs,” which will feature life-size models, casts of rare fossils and other interactive activities. Also opening will be the GRPM original exhibit “Fashion + Nature,” which will explore the complex relationship between the fashion industry and the natural environment.
For more information about the Grand Rapids Public Museum, visit www.grpm.org. The Museum is located at 272 Pearl St. NW. Residents in Kent County receive reduce admission rates and free parking.
It’s been a great Christmas season in the Gonzalez house with our two grandbabies visiting from out of town. What a change to go from just the two of us to two more adults, two children under the age of 3 and a dog!
I think we’re going to usher in the New Year in a whole new way.
What about you?
We have some ideas of things to do this weekend in Gonzo’s Top 5, exclusively on WKTV Journal.
Gonzo’s Top 5
5. The Grand Rapids Gold
The season is just getting started for GR’s newest professional franchise, The Grand Rapids Gold basketball team in the NBA G League. Several home games are on tap, including games Jan. 5, 7 and 8 at the DeltaPlex Arena. “Star Wars” Night is Jan. 22. The team is an affiliate of the Denver Nuggets. Ticket information, as well as roster details, at grandrapids.gleague.nba.com/. Let’s go see some basketball!
4. Grand Rapids Griffins
We always have our Griffins to usher in a new year. The popular New Year’s Eve game – complete with fireworks – returns on Dec. 31 at Van Andel Arena. Game time is 6 p.m. The team plays in the American Hockey League and is an affiliate of the Detroit Red Wings. Check out the schedule and ticket information at griffinshockey.com/schedule.
Photo by Gavin Brown (from Facebook)
3. Normal Mode at The Listening Room
Ready for live music to make a big comeback in 2022? I know I am. Start the new year with Normal Mode, a Grand Rapids-based trio writing what it calls “lo-fi space travel music.” The group performs at 7:30 p.m. Saturday (Jan. 1) at The Listening Room in Grand Rapids. The band’s press material says: “This group of young, but seasoned musicians offer up floating ethereal soundscapes on top of head bopping grooves; perfect for a relaxing exploration. Dutcher Snedeker (Piano/Keys), Ian Thompson (Upright/Electric Bass), and Nathan Coles (Drums), all have deep roots in the Michigan music scene. Their genre blending style echos hints of Jazz, rock, and funk, while leaving enough room for improvisation.” I couldn’t agree more. It’s fantastic! The show is free. But there are vaccination requirements. Listen to their music and learn more at listeningroomgr.com.
2. Billy Strings Live
Fans are excited for the return of bluegrass star Billy Strings, a local musician-turned Grammy award winner, who is scheduled to perform Dec. 30-Jan. 1 at GLC Live at 20 Monroe in downtown Grand Rapids. All shows are sold out. If you have tickets, you’re in for a memorable evening. If not, well, maybe next time. And if you’ve never heard of Billy Strings or you want to watch from home, this is a good opportunity to learn more about this emerging national talent who is originally from Ionia. Those who want to livestream the shows can get more details at nugs.net. Follow Billy Strings on YouTube at https://found.ee/StringsYT and on Spotify https://found.ee/BSpotify.
Oh, and if you’re downtown on Thursday (Dec. 30), a pre-show concert is planned with Desmond Jones, a five-piece American rock band from Grand Rapids, at 5 p.m. at The Listening Room. The show is free. Doors open at 4 p.m. The band is known for its “melodic guitar riffs, funky bass lines, groovy drumbeats, and smooth saxophone,” according to press materials. More info at listeningroomgr.com.
Note: Billy Strings postponed some shows in Nashville earlier this month because of a Covid positive test in his touring band. In a story on liveforlivemusic.com he said: “At this time we have every intention of performing our New Years Eve run in Grand Rapids and can’t wait to see you there. We love you and hope you all stay healthy and safe this holiday season.”
Scenes from Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World exhibition and events. (Supplied/Dean VanDis)
1. Christmas in Grand Rapids
I’ve mentioned a couple local institutions several times over the last few weeks. Don’t forget:
The Christmas Lite Show at LMCU Ballpark remains open from 5:30-9 p.m. daily, and 5:30-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. It runs through Jan. 1. Cost is $28 per car. More information at christmasliteshow.com.
The University of Michigan Health-West Christmas & Holiday Traditions exhibition at Meijer Gardens runs through Jan. 2. It is open daily, but closed on Jan. 1. More details at meijergardens.org.
That’s it for now.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe weekend.
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 “Behind the Mitten” radio show, which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. 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.
What a strange – and blustery – winter weather pattern we’ve been experiencing. I hope everyone has remained safe.
As you already know, we’re only a week away from the Christmas holiday, and I couldn’t be more excited. My kids from North Carolina will be visiting for about 10 days, and I can’t wait to squeeze those grandbabies! Lucky me.
Are you entertaining over the holidays?
Well, as you prepare for your activities, let’s look at some ways to de-stress in this weekend’s Gonzo’s Top 5, exclusively on WKTV Journal.
5. Broad Leaf Brewery & Spirits
My good friend Amy Sherman turned me on to all the cool things they’re doing at Broad Leaf Brewery, the sister brewery of Jason and Kris Spaulding of Brewery Vivant. We’ve been there a few times, and the beer is always tasty, and the environment perfect to entertain the family or guests with all those video games. This weekend stop by for their Holiday Bazaar from 1-5 p.m. Sunday (Dec. 19) to support local artisans – and local beer. More details at https://broadleafbeer.com/event/christmas-bazaar/. Broad Leaf also offers a great food menu, and cocktails. It is located at 2885 Lake Eastbrook Blvd SE in Kentwood.
4. TUBACHRISTMAS Concert
You know the saying: “Nothing says Christmas like a Tuba!” I know, that’s not a saying, but you can enjoy the return of this popular show when local performers take the stage at 3 p.m. Sunday (Dec. 19) at Fountain Street Church, 24 Fountain St. NE. Check out the event’s Facebook page for more info. Oh, and if you’re a tuba player or “a musician with a tuba, baritone, sousaphone, euphonium, or anything else in the tuba family, you’re welcome to join” in, organizers say on the event page.
Bert and Erine in “It’s a Wonderful Life.” (Wikipedia)
3. It’s a Wonderful Life
It’s family movie time! Take a short drive to Muskegon and enjoy the beautiful Frauenthal Theatre (built in 1930) for a screening of the classic “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Show time is 3 p.m. Sunday (Dec. 19). Doors open at 2:15 p.m. Admission is free. Check out the event Facebook page for more details. (What’s that? You’ve never seen “It’s a Wonderful Life”? Email me and I’ll fill you in!)
Reindeer at the KDL Kentwood Branch (Photo courtesy of Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
2. Ready for Reindeer!
Despite the recent warm weather, temperatures will dip back into the 30s as we head into Christmas. That’s perfect for Santa’s reindeer. Our friends at the KDL Kentwood Branch say the reindeer are “traveling all the way from the North Pole – via Rooftop Landing Reindeer Farms” for a visit at 10 a.m. Saturday (Dec. 18) at the Richard L. Root Branch Library, 4950 Breton SE, in Kentwood. More details on the library event page.
1. Grand Rapids Griffins
I have not been to a Griffins hockey game the last couple of years, and this might be a perfect escape before the kids come to town. The team has games Saturday (Dec. 18), Sunday (Dec. 19) and Wednesday (Dec. 22) at Van Andel Arena. If you want to bring the little ones, go on Saturday when Santa Claus is coming to town. He’ll be on hand for a special pre-game visit. Game time is 7 p.m. The first 1,000 kids 13 and under get a replica 25th anniversary Griffins jersey. Ticket information and more details at griffinshockey.com/schedule.
Oh, and if you’re off of work next week (like me!), you might want to experience “Cirque de Noël!,” which returns for performances Dec. 21-22 at DeVos Performance Hall. You’ll see acrobats, aerialists, contortionists, jugglers and strongmen all to the classical and seasonal musical selections by the Grand Rapids Symphony. Show times and ticket information at grsymphony.org/cirque-de-noel. A special morning show is at 10 a.m. Dec. 22.
That’s it for now.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe weekend.
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’s an early adopter of Social Media and SEO expert. 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.
Jurassic Quest returns to Grand Rapids Jan. 7 – 9 with more than 100 dinosaurs. (Supplied)
The largest and most realistic dinosaur exhibit in North America returns to Grand Rapids Jan. 7 – 9.
Jurassic Quest will be at DeVos Place for those three days. The exhibit is an indoor family education and entertainment (edutainment) show that will feature more than 100 life-like dinosaurs, dinosaur-themed rides, live dinosaur shows, and interactive science and art activities. There also will be a Triceratots soft play area, bounce houses, and inflatable attractions.
Visitors will walk through the Cretaceous, Jurassic and Triassic periods to see the dinos that ruled on land and “deep dive” into the Ancient Oceans exhibit to come face-to-face with the largest apex predator that existed, a moving, life-size, 50-foot-long Megalodon.
Tickets are $22 for adults and children and $19 for seniors. There is also a $36-dollar ticket for kids unlimited rides. Tickets do include a 100 percent guarantee of refund if the show is cancelled or postponed for any reason. Because tickets sell quickly, advance ticket purchased is encouraged.
Holiday break for many schools starts at about 3:30 p.m. Friday with most students being out for around two weeks.
Students have the opportunity to explore the Museum during the Snowflake Break camps. (Grand Rapids Public Museum)
Holiday activities take up some of the time during the two-week break but whether it is waiting for or after all the presents are unwrapped, there is time when everybody is looking for something to do.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum announced that it will bring back its Snowflake Break, which will run from Dec. 18 to Jan. 2. Snowflake Break features special exhibits and activities and includes the traveling exhibits “POPnology,” and “Bats: Masters of the Night,” along with educational Snowflake Break Camp opportunities for area children.
“Snowflake Break at the Museum is the perfect experience for families seeking fun activities to do during the holiday break,” said Kate Kocienski, the Museum’s VP of Marketing & Public Relations. “We’re pleased to offer reduced admission for Kent County residents everyday, including free admission for kids 17 and under. Snowflake Break is an ideal time for local families to take advantage of these benefits to explore, learn and create lifelong holiday memories.”
The three floors at the Museum have holiday-themed decorations and activities. Festival favorites returning include the historic Grand Rapids LEGO® Bricks display, oversized games in the Galleria, and the popular Santa and Elf Hunt that encourages visitors to explore the Museum to find 12 elves hidden in peculiar sports, while also learning about 15 Santas from around the world.
Through Jan. 2, the Chaffee Planetarium will feature “Let It Snow!” with classic holiday music paired a visual show.
A current exhibit at the Grand Rapids Public Museum is “Bats: Masters o the Night.” (Grand Rapids Public Museum)
Snowflake Break Camps are also available for kids in first through sixth grade, with pre-registration required. For two weeks campers will use the Museum as a learning lab – experimenting, learning and growing – all while exploring the permanent and traveling exhibits at the Museum. Camps will be limited to 16 registrants per session, and are $40 per child, with a reduced rate of $30 per child for GRPM members. Campers will be provided with supplies for each activity. Various safety measures will be in place to ensure a low-risk environment for learners and educators. To learn more or to register for Snowflake Break Camps, visit grpm.org/educlasses.
Organist Dave Wickerham will present a night of holiday music on the GRPM’s Mighty Wurlitzer Theater organ on Dec. 17 and 18 with tickets available at grpm.org.
Holiday displays are included with general admission to the Museum. Kent County residents receive reduced admission every day with free admission for Kent County children 17 and under! Kent County adults are only $5 for general admission and Kent County seniors are $3. Advance ticket reservation is recommended, for a seamless, contactless entry. Visit grpm.org to reserve today. Kent County residents also receive free parking in the Museum’s ramp for their visit. The Museum encourages all visitors to wear a face mask, regardless of their vaccination status, to help curb the spread of Covid 19 in our community.
Other activities:
The Grand Rapids Art Museum will be featuring the exhibits “An Art of Changes: Jasper Johns Prints, 1960-2018,” which surveys six decades of output from one of America’s greatest living artists, and “The Black Ash Basketry of Kelly Church and Cherish Parrish,” showcases a centuries-old Anishinaabe tradition.
The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum is featuring the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Express, formerly the Breton Village Miniature Train Display, which includes replicas of South High School, Bill’s Place diner and other significant structures in the president’s Grand Rapids life.
The family Watkins of Watkins Family Hour, brother and sister Sean and Sara Watkins, have performed separately and together for nearly their whole lives. Growing up near San Diego, they played countless shows at a local pizza place in Carlsbad, Calif., often with their childhood friend, Chris Thile.
What do they say? When it comes to music, it’s the company you keep. And if you know Thile, you know the quality folk company the Watkins siblings keep.
When Watkins Family Hour comes to St. Cecilia Music Center’s Royce Auditorium Stage on Dec. 16, folk/bluegrass music lovers will keep company with the pair — as they perform songs from their 2020 album “brother sister”, and other songs from their catalogue — as well as special guest artist Courtney Hartman.
Hartman, who will lead off the evening starting at 7 p.m., with the Watkins siblings taking the stage at 8 p.m.
Tickets for Watkins Family Hour with Courtney Hartman can be purchased online at scmc-online.org or by calling St. Cecilia Music Center at 616-459-2224.
Folk/bluegrass in their blood
Sean and Sara Watkins grew up playing music alongside Thile in the hugely successful folk and bluegrass band Nickel Creek, an acoustic ensemble that sold millions of albums, won a GRAMMY, and toured the world.
Encouraged by a local club owner in Los Angeles, Sean and Sara formed Watkins Family Hour in 2002 “as an outlet to try out some original songs and a few covers that wouldn’t work in Nickel Creek,” according to supplied material. That club, Largo, has since become the home base for Watkins Family Hour.
When not with Nickel Creek, Sean and Sara have released multiple solo albums and pursued other collaborations, most recently with Sara’s involvement in the group I’m With Her — a GRAMMY nominated female folk trio comprised of Watkins, Sarah Jarosz and Aoife O’Donovan.
Sara has also toured with the Decemberists. Sean has also performed in Fiction Family and the supergroup Works Progress Administration.
Returning to the studio as Watkins Family Hour, the pair released “brother sister”, self-described as “a duo-centric record (but) one that feels bigger than just two people.” With Sean primarily on guitar and Sara on fiddle, and with both sharing vocals, the pair enlisted producer Mike Viola (Jenny Lewis, Mandy Moore, J.S. Ondara) and mixer-engineer Clay Blair to “harness the energy and honesty of their live sound.”
“From the beginning, our goal was to work on these songs to be as strong as they could be, just the two of us,” Sara said in supplied material. “And with a few exceptions on the record, that’s really how things were. However, brother sister remains exactly that – the result of a brother and sister creating music.”
Watkins Family Hour’s “Brother Sister” Album Cover. (Supplied)
On the new release, their musical chemistry is clear on songs like “Lafayette,” an ode to Hollywood as well as the hometowns left behind by its aspiring stars, and “Fake Badge, Real Gun,” about confronting authority figures as well as your own beliefs, according to supplied material.
The pair’s choice of covers on “brother sister” also speak to the musical company their have kept and the music they respect: Warren Zevon’s poignant “Accidentally Like a Martyr” and “Keep It Clean,” the rabble-rousing Charley Jordan gem from the 1930s.
Hartman is a Colorado-born guitarist, singer, writer, and producer. In 2009, Courtney left home for Boston to study American Roots music at Berklee College of Music. She was soon on the road, touring full-time with the Boston-born band, Della Mae. This fall and winter she is touring with her new album, Glade.
St. Cecilia’s folk series lineup continues in New Year
Things really get cookin’ in the Acoustic Café in 2022, starting with local fave May Erlewine on Thursday, Feb. 17 — if you didn’t catch Erlewine’s late 2019 socially/politically charged release “Second Sight”, which was unjustly lost in the shuffle of the pandemic, you missed one of the best local releases in years.
Following Erlewine, Shawn Colvin will make a much-delayed return on Thursday, May 12; followed by the incomparable Judy Collins on Wednesday, May 18.
Tickets for all remaining concerts are available at scmc-online.org or by calling 616-459-2224.
Special note: as of this day/time, SCMC will require proof of fully vaccinated status, or a negative COVID test taken within 48 hours, to attend a concert at the SCMC venue. Attendees need to bring photo ID and proof of vaccination, or a negative test, the night of a concert.
Also, given the current pandemic status, SCMC also “highly recommends” that all attendees wear a mask while in the building.
All ticket holders will be notified if mandatory mask requirements are in effect for a particular show by an artist. If you a have tickets to an upcoming performance and are unwilling or unable to abide by this policy, please contact the SCMC box office for a refund at kelly@scmc-online.org a minimum of 48 hours prior to the concert date.
For complete information on all shows at St. Cecilia, visit scmc-online.org.
Me? Well, I’m still wrapping my head around the fact Christmas is about two weeks away. Yes, I said TWO WEEKS! Thankfully I have the lovely Pam, my wife, who handles all the stress of shopping, cooking and wrapping to make it a perfect holiday. But there is just so much going on.
Well, I say don’t forget to take a break to try something new or maybe create new traditions.
Here are a few things to consider in this weekend’s Gonzo’s Top 5, exclusively on WKTV Journal.
5.WWE Supershow Holiday Tour
Are you a fan of Raw or SmackDown? Well, you probably already know your favorite stars will be in Grand Rapids this weekend for a show at 5 p.m. Sunday (Dec. 12). Scheduled to appear: Universal Champion Roman Reigns, WWE Champion Big E, RAW Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair, SmackDown Women’s Champion Becky Lynch, Bianca Belair, Drew McIntyre and many more. Ticket information and more details at vanandelarena.com.
The Horrocks Holiday Jamboree will including kids bands. (Supplied)
4.Horrocks Holiday Jamboree
Live music. Santra’s reindeer. Hot chocolate. And a mac and cheese bar! Sign me up. The annual Horrocks Holiday Jamboree returns from 4-8 p.m. Friday (Dec. 10) at Horrocks, 4455 Breton Road SE, in Kentwood. There is a winter petting zoo for kids, as well as holiday caroling and a lineup of children’s bands. Kids can also drop off a letter to Santa in the Elf Express Delivery mailbox. For a list of music acts and more details, check out the event’s Facebook page.
3.The Grand Rapids Ballet Presents The Nutcracker
You know it’s the holidays when the famous “Nutcracker” presented by the Grand Rapids Ballet Company returns. Performances are Dec. 10-12 and Dec. 17-19 at DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave NW. I’m not sure if I need to explain why it’s such a classic meant for every child, at least, once in their lifetime. (One of these days I’ll tell the story of how I took three little boys to the show, only to have them begging me to take them home at “halftime.” It’s a great memory in the Gonzalez household.) For performance times, ticket information and more details, go to devosperformancehall.com or grballet.com.
The Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce’s Santa Parade returns this Saturday. (WKTV)
2.Wyoming and Kentwood Area Santa Parade
Presented by the Wyoming/Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce, the Santa Parade is at 10 a.m. Saturday (Dec. 11) and features more than 50 entrants, including five school bands, and — well, you know — Santa. The parade travels on South Division between 34th and Murray Streets. More info at http://southkent.org. If you miss the parade, your friends at WKTV will re-broadcast on cable television at 7 p.m. Saturday and 10:30 p.m. Sunday. WKTV’s coverage of the parade also will be available on-demand later.
1.James Taylor & Jackson Browne at Van Andel Arena
Concerts are back in a big way, and you get two big names in one show when James Taylor and Jackson Browne perform at 7:30 p.m. Friday at Van Andel Arena. Performing with his All-Star Band, James Taylor has been entertaining audiences for more than 40 years. He’s in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and he has sold more than 100 million albums. Fans have loved him for years. And Jackson Browne, who is known for big hits such as “The Pretender” and “Running on Empty,” is always a pro. Check on ticket availability and more details at vanandelarena.com.
That’s it for now.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe weekend.
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’s an early adopter of Social Media and SEO expert. 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.
The holiday season is well underway at the Grand Rapids Public Museum with special exhibits and activities for the entire family now on display including historic Grand Rapids built from LEGO® bricks, Santas from around the world, holiday planetarium shows and more.
Returning to the Grand Rapids Museum is the recreation of 1925 era of downtown Grand Rapids in LEGOs. (Photo supplied by Grand Rapids Public Museum)
“The Museum is a great place for families as they get into the holiday spirit this season with special displays and activities that will excite all ages,” said Kate Kocienski, vice president of Marketing & Public Relations at the GRPM. “In addition to annual favorites, including our historic LEGO® display, visitors can peek into the history of traditions through a festive display of Santas from around the globe and decorations found in the Streets of Old Grand Rapids exhibit.”
One of the most popular GRPM exhibits during the season is the LEGO® recreation of 1925 Grand Rapids. The old-time Grand Rapids model features historic buildings built to scale and operating trams. Visitors have the opportunity to search and find different places all while discovering what downtown Grand Rapids use to be like.
The treasure hunting continued with the Santa and Elf Hunt. Riddles will help visitors find 15 historic Santas from around the world in the Streets of Old Grand Rapids exhibit along with learning about the traditions of each culture around Saint Nick. And while some homes have Elf on a Shelf, the GRPM has Elves in the Exhibits. Visitors can also follow clues to find all 12 elves hidden throughout the three floors of the museum. The Santa and Elf Hunt is available in both English and Spanish.
Featured exhibits are “Bats: Masters of the Night” and “POPnology,” featuring iconic replicas of a DeLorean Time Machine, R2D2, E.T. and more. “Bats,” which explores the famous creatures of the night, is part of the Museum admission. “POPnology,” which runs through Jan. 30, may be added on to any Museum visit.
Santa search now taking place at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. (Photo supplied by the Grand Rapids Public Museum)
Kent County adults are only $5 for general admission and Kent County children 17 and under are free. For pricing and tickets, visit grpm.org.
At the Chaffee Planetarium
Running through Jan. 2 at the Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium is the show “Let It Snow,” which features a new variety of festive classics from Frank Sinatra and Chuck Berry to Burl Ives and Brenda Lee. Also, if you did not get a chance to see the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, the “Let It Snow” production includes a multimedia finale by the popular group. Tickets for the Planetarium are $4/with general admission to the Museum, $2 for Museum members, and $5 for planetarium-only tickets.
An added bonus at the Chaffee Planetarium is the installation of a hearing loop system which provides a highly effective way of broadcasting information to visitors for those who are hard of hearing.
The loop systems connect with an individuals’ personal hearing device, utilizing the T-coil system, to receive clear, crisp audio without the need for any other device. Additionally, the Museum will have two loop receivers with headphones for individuals requiring hearing assistance who do not have T-coil equipped hearing devices that will be available upon request.
“The Grand Rapids Public Museum is proud to continue to expand access to the Museum and Planetarium for members of the community who are hard of hearing,” said Dr. Stephanie Ogren, the Museum’s Vice President of Science and Education. “By installing the loop system in the Chaffee Planetarium, the Museum is reducing another barrier to access, continuing to ensure the Museum is as accessible and inclusive to the broadest population.”
The Public Museum’s popular series Concerts Under the Stars returns in January. The series is a fully immersive audio and visual concert experience in the Chaffee Planetarium, highlighting local music and visual artists.
Grand Rapids-based Normal Mode performs on Jan. 13 at the Chaffee Planetarium. (Photo supplied by Grand Rapids Public Museum)
“We’re excited for the return of Concerts Under the Stars at the Chaffee Planetarium,” said GRPM’s Planetarium Manager Jack Daleske. “This year will feature a broad range of musical talent from local musicians in combination with local digital artists for an incredible full-sensory experience unique only to our location.”
This winter, three West Michigan bands will perform their music, enhanced by the unique environment created by the dome and seating of the Chaffee Planetarium. Completing the immersive experience will be area visual artists weaving digital art to the music being performed.
On Jan. 13, Concerts Under the Stars will feature local band Normal Mode, a Grand Rapids-based trio writing lo-fi space travel music. This group of young, but seasoned musicians offer up floating ethereal soundscapes on top of head bopping grooves; perfect for a relaxing exploration.
Local video artist Nate Eizenga will accompany Normal Mode. Eizenga is a Grand Rapids native who moonlights as a video artist, focusing on accompaniment for live musical performances.
Shows will begin at 7:30 p.m. with doors opening at 6 p.m., including access to the Museum’s first two floors of exhibits. Performers will play two sets with a short intermission in between. Refreshments, beer and other beverages will be available for purchase. Tickets are $20, with discounted pricing of $16 for GRPM members. Tickets are currently on sale and available at grpm.org.
The 2022 Concerts Under the Stars series will continue on Feb. 10 with a dynamic mix of surf and garage rock sets performed by Hollywood Makeout and will conclude on March 10 and 11 with a unique blend of alternative rock by Lazy Genius.
If you have seen the pandemic-inspired virtual productions of the Grand Rapids Ballet over the last year-plus, you know they are of exquisite quality in both production and filming.
So as the Ballet returns to DeVos Performance Hall after a 24 month hiatus for live performances of the holiday favorite “The Nutcracker” — scheduled for two weekends, Dec. 10-12 and Dec. 17-19 — there is a virtual option “for those who can’t join in person.”
But there is something, almost indescribable, about seeing dance live.
Grand Rapids Ballet’s Sarah Marley and Nathan Young in a scene from “The Nutcracker”. (Supplied/Ray Nard Imagemaker)
“There is just something irreplaceable about the magic of the theater, when the conductor cues the musicians, the lights dim, and the curtain opens to reveal a world of music, dance, and joy,” Ballet artistic director James Sofranko said to WKTV. “Live performance exists only in the present moment and is gone the next, and this immediacy is what makes attending the theater so special.”
The stage at DeVos Performance Hall will be in full holiday spirit with beautiful sets and beloved characters including Clara, Drosselmeyer, the Sugar Plum Fairy, the Cavalier, and of course, the Nutcracker Prince. The production also features Tchaikovsky’s magical score, performed live by the Grand Rapids Symphony with vocals by Grand Valley State University’s Department of Music.
Grand Rapids Ballet’s ballet school members in a scene from “The Nutcracker”. (Supplied/Ray Nard Imagemaker)
“For professional dancers, the tradition of ‘The Nutcracker’ is in our blood, we can’t imagine the holidays without it,” Sofranko said in supplied material. “It’s very special to return with this production that means so much to our organization’s history and our community.”
“The Nutcracker” was reimagined in 2014 by Grand Rapids native Chris Van Allsburg, author of “The Polar Express,” and features set designs by Eugene Lee, a Tony Award winner for productions including “The Lion King”, and “Wicked”.
The Ballet’s company dancers, consisting of professional dancers from across the globe, will also share the stage with students from Grand Rapids Ballet School — all of which will come together to perform captivating choreography by Val Caniparoli, one of America’s most renowned choreographers.
And both young and experienced dancers will be on their toes to be back in front of a live audience at DeVos.
“Knowing that live performances are right around the corner, the dancers are filled with a renewed vigor and energy that is exciting to witness,” Sofanko said to WKTV.
Company dancer Nathan Young agreed, and noted that there is also a deep appreciation by the dancers of having a live audience.
“We are an extension of your community,” Young said in supplied material. “When you come to see Grand Rapids Ballet, you are seeing Grand Rapids community members who live close to you and nearby. All we want to do is share our talent with people in Michigan. We thrive on your support and applause, which is how we can keep this classical art form alive.”
Grand Rapids Ballet’s Yuka Oba-Muschiana and Josue Justiz in a scene from “The Nutcracker”. (Supplied/Ray Nard Imagemaker)
Tickets, other options and a kids party
For audience members who are not able to attend an in-person performance, tiger Ballet’s virtual option is available for $25 and will be available following opening night and can be viewed multiple times through Jan. 2, 2022.
Additionally, the Grand Rapids Ballet is once again hosting Clara’s Nutcracker Party, a one-of-a-kind holiday celebration made just for kids, on Sunday, Dec. 12. Clara’s Nutcracker Party will allow children to meet their favorite characters from “The Nutcracker” in a fun and festive fantasyland at Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. The holiday experience includes a fun arts and crafts activity, tea and brunch, a reading of “The Nutcracker” tale, as well as a live performance by the Grand Rapids Ballet School.
“The Nutcracker” runs for two weekends with tickets starting at $20 online, via phone at 616-454-4771 ext. 10, or in-person at the Ballet’s Box Office, located at the Ballet’s home and offices, 341 Ellsworth Ave SW, Grand Rapids.
We have so many things going on locally, as usual. But this weekend I find myself on Mackinac Island for its annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony. You can follow my Facebook page for updates. I might even bring back some fudge, if you’re interested.
A little closer to home….. you can check out the Christmas tree lighting party at Boston Square Community Parklet at 4:30 p.m. Saturday (Dec. 4). Eight Boston Square area organizations and businesses are hosting a free, family-friendly event featuring music, food and talent from the neighborhood. The ceremony begins at 6 p.m. at the Boston Square Community Parklet, 1505 Kalamazoo Avenue SE.
In addition, the Christmas in Caledonia Lights Parade and tree lighting ceremony is from 4-7 p.m. Saturday (Dec. 4) in Caledonia and features food, warm fires and festivities. A light parade will start at 6 p.m. with Santa ushering the parade. You can get a photo with him after the parade.
What do you have planned?
Here are a few more ideas in this weekend’s Gonzo’s Top 5, exclusively on WKTV Journal.
Gonzo’s Top 5
5. West Catholic Christmas Craft Show
I have been writing about local craft shows every week, and this weekend marks the return of the popular West Catholic Christmas Craft Show. It features 200-plus crafters and is from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday (Dec. 4) at the high school, 1801 Bristol Ave NW, Grand Rapids. Now that it’s December, you might want to get serious about your holiday shopping. (I’m telling myself.) You can find more information about the craft show on the event Facebook page. (I recently started working at West Catholic High School on the school’s communications team and I can tell you that everyone is excited to put on a great event, which helps raise funds for school programs.)
Video courtesy of Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
4. Wyoming Light Show
If you’re looking for a holiday light show a little closer to home, you can find nine houses synced to music located on Sage River Court SW and Amur Drive SW in Wyoming. Organizers of the Sage River Holiday Light Show encourage you to tune in to your radio at 94.1 FM when you arrive. Find more details on the Facebook page.
3. The Sound of Music
Over a recent family dinner I was talking to my niece, Christina Gonzalez, who said the cast is loving the return of Grand Rapids Civic Theatre’s “The Sound of Music.” She plays the role of Sister Sophia. That reminded me I better get tickets soon. Performances continue through Dec. 19. Shows are usually at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday, and at 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Get more information at grct.org/the-sound-of-music or check out GRCT’s Facebook page.
Santa Photos courtesy of Dean VanDis.
2. Visit Santa Meijer Gardens
As we have written about in prior weeks, the annual University of Michigan Health-West Christmas & Holiday Traditions exhibition at Meijer Gardens is in full swing as guests experience 46 trees and displays representing countries and cultures from across the globe, as well as 300,000 lights and Garden Railway display. But you can visit Santa, too. He makes an appearance from 5-8 p.m. Dec. 7, 14 and 21 in the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory (where it’s always balmy). His reindeer arrive at a different time. They are in the Michigan Farm Garden from 1-4 p.m. on Saturdays: Dec. 4, 11 and 18. Both are free with admission to the Gardens. Get all the details at meijergardens.org.
Photo of TSO is Courtesy of TSO/Van Andel Arena.
1.Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Looking for a BIG this weekend? You’ll be wowed by the spectacle of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, which brings its “Christmas Eve and Other Stories” tour to Van Andel Arena for two shows – 3 and 7:30 p.m. Sunday (Dec. 5). The rock opera features many of TSO’s most beloved numbers, including “Ornament,” “Promises to Keep,” and, the song everyone knows, “Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24.” Ticket information, a video preview of the show and more at vanandelarena.com. Trans-Siberian Orchestra video.
That’s it for now.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe weekend.
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’s an early adopter of Social Media and SEO expert. 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.
Eight Boston Square area organizations and businesses are hosting a free, family-friendly Christmas tree lighting party at Boston Square Community Parklet Saturday, Dec. 4, at 4:30 p.m.
The idea is based on the annual downtown Grand Rapids event, but organizers wanted to create an event that better reflects the diverse cultures found within the Boston Square area.
The inaugural event, formally titled “Boston Square Community Christmas Tree Lighting,” will include the ceremonial ‘flipping of the switch’, as well as music, food and talent from the neighborhood. The festivities kick off at 4:30 p.m., with a 6 p.m. lighting ceremony, at the Boston Square Community Parklet, located at 1505 Kalamazoo Avenue SE.
ArtPrize organizers announced today that ArtPrize would return in 2022 to its annual format.
“We look forward with anticipation into the New Year and the opportunity to work with our community to create the best ArtPrize yet–one that will inspire hope and excitement in Grand Rapids and beyond, bringing us together in new ways, celebrating artists and art loves, and fostering a sense of openness and healing,” organizers said in a release to the public.
Dates, including those for artist and venue registration, will be announced later. Also in the coming weeks, ArtPrize will be sharing details on grant program and prize format.
St. Cecilia Music Center will host award-winning musicians The Milk Carton Kids, with their “beautiful songs and entertaining stage banter,” on Thursday, Dec. 2 at 7:30 p.m., kicking off the duo’s concert Trans-Atlantic tour through 21 U.S. cities and 5 performances in Spain, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and England.
Despite the scope of the tour, The Milk Carton Kids are no stranger to Grand Rapids.
“The Milk Carton Kids were a big hit at St. Cecilia Music Center during their first visit here in 2019,” Cathy Holbrook, St. Cecilia Music Center’s Executive & Artistic Director, said in supplied material. “Their loyal fans and people who love folk and Americana music will appreciate Joey Ryan and Kenneth Pattengale’s beautiful songs and entertaining stage banter.”
Tickets for The Milk Carton Kids are available at scmc-online.org or by calling 616-459-2224.
The duo’s newest release, The Only Ones, released in October 2019, takes The Milk Carton Kids back to their roots and the core of what they are musically, and features acoustic performances without a backup band.
“With ‘The Only Ones,’ The Milk Carton Kids go back to their roots: acoustic guitars and ethereal harmonies delivering lyrics that detail all the emotions love evokes,” Americana UK said about the album. “Musical duos will inevitably be compared to those that come before, and while The Milk Carton Kids conjure everyone from Simon and Garfunkel to the O’Kanes, ‘The Only Ones’ prove they can confidently hold their own, alongside their influences.”
This return back to their roots was prompted by several changes in the lives of Ryan and Pattengale. From professional to personal, these changes provided a break from years of non-stop touring that, Ryan says in supplied material, has yielded “space outside of the band that gives us perspective on what the band is.”
In the beginning, a perfect blend
When singers Ryan and Pattengale first connected, it was a pivotal moment for both of them.
Joey Ryan and Kenneth Pattengale, The Milk Carton Kids. (Courtesy of the band)
“For me, the striking thing about the first time we played together, even though it was just two acoustic guitars and two voices singing, was that it felt complete,” Ryan said in an interview with CBS This Morning, Saturday Sessions. Pattengale agreed: “Physically, the way that our voices blended in the air happened in a way where I had just never had that experience with another person.”
This powerful connection has led to three GRAMMY Award nominations for the duo: Best Folk Album in 2013 (The Ash & Clay), Best American Roots Performance in 2015 (The City of Our Lady), and Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical, in 2018 (All the Things That I Did and All the Things That I Didn’t Do).
A few past achievements (among many) since Ryan and Pattengale began touring and performing include: performing on National Public Radio’s Mountain Stage, Daytrotter; touring with Old Crow Medicine Show and The Lumineers; having three unreleased tracks featured in Gus Van Sant’s film “Promised Land”, starring Matt Damon and John Krasinski; several TV and Radio performances; praise from Rolling Stone for the duo’s album All the Things That I Did and All the Things That I Didn’t Do, with writer Luke Levenson noting the bandmates’ life changes as significant influences in its sound.
St. Cecilia’s pandemic policy
SCMC currently requires proof of fully vaccinated status, or a negative COVID test taken within 48 hours, to attend a concert at the SCMC venue. Attendees need to bring photo ID and proof of vaccination, or a negative test, the night of a concert. All audience members are required to wear a mask while in the building.
If you have tickets to an upcoming performance and are unwilling or unable to abide by this policy, please contact the SCMC box office for a refund at kelly@scmc-online.org a minimum of 48 hours prior to the concert date.
