Upcoming Events

Saturday: 'Coexist? Comedy Tour' at the Crest Theatre

2009-12-04T06:15:32Z

What do a Hindu, Christian, Muslim, Jew, Buddhist and atheist have in common? Besides the fact that they all perform stand-up on the "Coexist? Comedy Tour," they are all from Northern California and have spent time in the same Prius while on the road.

Saturday night, the Coexist Tour will stop at the Crest Theatre for a live taping. The show features Tissa Hami (the Muslim), Mike Winfield (the Christian), Tapan Trivedi (the Hindu), Moshe Kasher (the Jew), Keith Lowell Jensen (the atheist) and Sammy Obeid (the Buddhist) performing stand-up about their religious differences.

It started a little over two years ago, with a conversation between Jensen and Trivedi about God. Jensen told Trivedi that he was an atheist and that nothing is a god, while Trivedi explained his belief that nearly everything is a god.

Jensen, the creative brain behind the Crest's Trash Film Orgy and All-Sketch Comedy Festival, figured he was on to something. So he pitched the idea of a religious comedy show to Trivedi and the rest is history.

"I like people coming together laughing at their differences, and then afterwards all having a drink," Jensen said. "This is why I co-founded the Coexist Tour."

They loaded into Trivedi's Prius, but it wasn't always a smooth ride. Along the way, the original Christian, Sacramento's John Ross, lost his faith and quit the tour. He was replaced by Winfield, another Sacramento-based comic.

"I was 'saved' when I was 14," Ross said earlier this year. "But I really fell away from Christian culture over the years."

That wasn't the only rough spot on the road. "The Jew and Muslim comedian fought a lot," said Trivedi.

Then there were tough questions from audiences like one posed in Stockton: "Why do you want to kill everybody?" someone asked Hami, the Muslim.

"She is not one to throw punches, (but) she gave it right back to them. She didn't take any prisoners," Trivedi said. "We tried not to do shows in Stockton (after that)."

Aside from such ignorant questions, Trivedi said his favorite moments on tour came while speaking with audience members when they tested the routine at the 49-seat Geery Theater, 2130 L St.

"After the show, people wanted to talk to us, and that to us was valuable, awesome," he said. "When people came and asked specific questions about things that matter to me in my heart, that's when I realized I'm doing something right."

Saturday's show will be taped by filmmaker Larry Brand, producer of HBO's Assume the Position with Mr. Wuhl. Travedi said he hopes HBO will buy the tape.

Not particularly religious? "Atheists who show up will be made fun of as well," Jensen said. "Always laugh at yourself first."

Tickets are $25, and can be purchased here, or at the Crest box office, 1013 K St. The show begins at 8 p.m.

Photo 3: Tapan Trivedi, courtesy Tapan Trivedi

Timothy B. Schmit to play the Crest Theatre Friday

2009-12-10T07:52:27Z

Eagles bass player Timothy B. Schmit hit the road for his first music tour at about five years old. Schmit wasn't playing the music; he was on the road with his father, a musician active in the Northern California club scene.

Schmit's father sold the family house in the Bay Area and moved them into a mobile home, driving from town to town, wherever his band had a show. After several upgrades, the family purchased an "Expando-Home" and settled in Sacramento, where Schmit began his long and winding career in music.

Friday night, Schmit will play a show at the Crest Theatre to promote his latest solo album Expando, which was released in October. Americana singer-songwriter Elliot Randall will open the show with a country-influenced set of rock 'n' roll.

For Schmit, there was never a clear path to success. Schmit formed his first band Tim, Tom and Ron, while in his first years at Encina High School. Adding another member, the band became The Contenders and developed a surf-rock sound.

After graduating from high school, The Contenders changed their name to the New Breed, and in 1965, they opened for Herman's Hermits and Sonny & Cher at the Memorial Auditorium. Heavily influenced by The Beatles, the band drew a local following, and in 1966, they opened for Lovin' Spoonful and The Yardbirds.

The New Breed picked up psychedelic influences in 1967, changing their name to The Breed and opening for popular Bay Area bands The Grateful Dead, Big Brother and the Holding Company and Jefferson Airplane. Following their final name change to The Glad in 1968, the band lost a large number of fans and Schmit joined the country-rock band Poco in 1969.

During nearly a decade with Poco, which was formed by ex-Buffalo Springfield members Jim Messina and Richie Furay, Schmit scored a handful of Billboard hits. He quit Poco to join the Eagles in 1977. His initial tenure with the Eagles lasted only three years because the Eagles broke up in 1980, but not before one of Schmit's songs, "I Can't Tell You Why" became one of the band's biggest hits.

During the Eagles' hiatus from 1980-1994, Schmit embarked on a solo career and became a member of Jimmy Buffett's Coral Reefer Band, then The Ringo Starr All-Starr Band. He rejoined the Eagles in 1994, and has been with them ever since.

For Schmit, Expando marks a return to home. Aside from being named after his childhood mobile home, Schmit's son Ben plays drums and guitar on "White Boy."

"This is the best work I’ve done to date," he said last month to country music blog The 9513. "I think it’s the truest representation of my music and me than anything I’ve done."

Expando features an eclectic, star-studded lineup of guests including Kid Rock, Gary Burton, Keb' Mo', Graham Nash and Kenny Wayne Shepherd. It peaked at #43 on Billboard's Heatseekers charts.

Tickets cost $25 and can be purchased at www.tickets.com and at the Crest box office, 1013 K Street. The show begins at 8 p.m.

Chuck D to speak at Sacramento State

2010-02-03T07:43:03Z

Chuck D is a rebel without a pause. The co-founder of seminal hip-hop group Public Enemy is a rapper, author and activist. He refers to himself as a "raptivist," and "an ambassador for hip-hop."

Thursday night, D will give a free speech at Sacramento State, where he'll be talking about rap, race, technology and communication. The event will also be a celebration of Black History Month.

D likes to talk. Given that he writes a blog, tours the world on speaking gigs, and owns the SLAMjams music label, which recently threw together an iTunes album for Haiti, he is surprisingly available. He called me for an unscheduled interview, just a few minutes after I e-mailed him.

"You can't go through life afraid to speak your mind," he said. "That is what you have your mind for. You're not a robot. Companies make robots. You have the capacity to think beyond that."

Public Enemy holds itself to the same mantra. Including its debut, "Yo, Bum Rush The Show" in 1987, Public Enemy has released 10 ten albums, each one a complete reinvention for the group. It even released albums online before MP3s were popular.

Most importantly, Public Enemy defied listeners to remain open to different types of music and people. Their collaboration and tour with thrash metal group Anthrax is still groundbreaking. On top of that, Public Enemy was one of the first hip-hop acts to use songs like "Fight the Power," "Bring the Noise" and "Black Steel in the Hour of Chaos," as political statements.

"I think that people want to be (politically) active, but the business, the music industry, has not encouraged artists to go far out of the box," he said. "It's kind of like a controlled state."

But the future has hope. D wants artists to reach inside themselves and form their own opinions, he said.

"I think the thing that inspires me is young minds, especially on the collegiate level," he said. "It's important to understand that a lot of young minds are not corrupted by the things that have plagued society — they're like an open book."

Relative fame and fortune aside, the nearly 50-year-old D is still humble. He still has love for his longtime friend and Public Enemy co-founder Flavor Flav.

"He's the same Flavor Flav as he was on day one," D said. "It's no different than Bruce Springsteen and Little Stephen. (We're) still in the same band."

When the earthquake struck Haiti last month, he threw together a Haiti benefit album in five days by asking artists on his label to contribute songs. D reasoned that any dollar he can donate will be a dollar more than what the Haitians have now.

Chuck D, 7:30 - 10:30 p.m., CSUS University Union Ballroom, all ages, free.

Photograph credit Walter Leaphart

Sacramento Theatre Company to present 'Tuesdays with Morrie'

2010-01-20T05:32:44Z

After leaving sports writing, journalist and author Mitch Albom truly found his niche. His first foray into the non-sports world was the book "Tuesdays with Morrie," the best-selling memoir of all time.

"Tuesdays with Morrie," which recounts Albom's conversations with his former sociology professor who is dying of Lou Gherig's Disease, was subsequently adapted into an Emmy Award-winning television movie as well as a play. Wednesday, the Sacramento Theatre Company will begin staging its run of the Albom-penned play of the same name.

The idea for the book first came to Albom after seeing Nightline's Ted Koppel interviewing Morrie Schwartz, his former professor at Brandeis University. After Schwartz tells Koppel of his life — and imminent death — with Lou Gherig's Disease, Albom is inspired to reconnect with Schwartz, whom he has not seen since college.

Albom schedules time every Tuesday to see Morrie, eventually finding that his time speaking with the professor is liberating and enlightening. Dialogue between Albom and Schwartz juxtaposes humor and life lessons, creating a moving portrait of Schwartz's last days.

Albom relates the life lessons he learns to past and contemporary events, giving the book a universal and timeless philosophical quality. By applying Schwartz's lessons to everyday life, Albom's tone turns indignant and urgent, not mourning loss, but instead inspiring the reader to help make positive social changes.

"Tuesdays with Morrie" will be performed at the Pollock Stage, 1419 H St. through Feb. 28. Tickets cost $15-$44 and can be purchased through tickets.com and at the STC box office.

Eclipse chaser to speak at Sacramento Valley Astronomical Society meeting

2009-11-18T04:54:55Z

Eclipse chasing is like storm chasing, but without any danger.

In fact, the only danger in eclipse chasing is if you try to look at a partial eclipse, said David Buchla, an eclipse chaser himself.

"During a totality [a total eclipse] the brightness of the corona is roughly the same as a full moon, (but) as soon as the sun comes out from behind the moon it is no longer safe," he said. "It's a shame that some people have gone outside and not looked because they heard it's not safe."

Friday night, 70-year-old Buchla, now living in Grass Valley, will be sharing his travel experiences, photographs and tips on viewing eclipses during the Sacramento Valley Astronomical Society's monthly meeting.

Buchla heard about the SVAS in 1991 from a fellow eclipse chaser, and he joined the group the same year.

The veteran eclipse chaser has seen countless partial eclipses, 10 full eclipses and even an annular eclipse, where the moon aligns with the sun, but does not block it. It all started in 1963 when Buchla witnessed his first partial eclipse in Minnesota.

"I thought, 'gee, I wish it was a total,'" he said.

He saw his first total eclipse (2 minutes, 36 seconds) from an ocean ship called the Olympia on July 10, 1972 in Nova Scotia. Buchla was so awestruck, he wished his children were there to see it with him, he said.

"I guess when you have to say which one trumps them all, the first one seems to be so memorable because I didn't know what to expect," Buchla said. "As you see more eclipses it's still a lot of fun and enjoyable, but it's not as jaw-dropping as the first one was."

So when he went to Africa to see another eclipse the next summer, he brought the whole family. As it turns out, that eclipse was nearly the longest of the century, seven minutes, four seconds.

Duration doesn't really matter much, he said. Buchla has seen both short and long eclipses in places as far as Russia, China, Egypt, Zimbabwe and Australia.

He simply enjoys traveling and refers to the eclipses as "icing on the cake." In 2001, Buchla spent $10,000 and more than 10 days in Australia and New Zealand - all to see a 30-second eclipse.

Of all the eclipse chases, only one resulted in a near miss, due to weather.

"In China, we had rain that morning and I was pretty sure we were going to be skunked," he said. "But it was still interesting and we saw the corona," he said.

Many Chinese in the area thought the total eclipse was a bad omen, he said. But as a scientist, and author of a number of engineering textbooks, Buchla said he doesn't read many of the astrological explanations behind them.

The next total eclipse will be July 11, 2010 in the South Pacific (Cook Islands, Easter Island). The next total eclipse in the U.S. will be August 21, 2017, which will be viewable from coast to coast.

SVAS meetings occur the third Friday of each month and are open to the public. Meetings take place at Sacramento City College, 3835 Freeport Blvd., in Mohr Hall, Room 3.

Photographs Credit David Buchla. Both photographs show a total eclipse in Russia.

Timothy B. Schmit interview

2009-12-11T06:52:10Z

This Friday, Eagles bassist Timothy B. Schmit will play a concert at the Crest Theatre. Please read this article for background on Schmit and details on the show.

The following includes excerpts of an email interview with Schmit:

You grew up in Sacramento. Do you have fond memories here, and how did the city, if it did at all, affect your decision to play music? Or was it purely a personal choice?

I've always looked at Sacramento as having been a great place for me to grow up. That, coupled with a good family life, seemed to be a good recipe for my eventual trek out into the rest of the world. The reasons I left were numerous, but it mainly had to do with trying to further my musical interests. I, along with my other musician friends, had big aspirations and dreamed of continuing for as long as possible. In the late 60's I received a great offer that required me to leave my home town, so naturally, I accepted. Music has always been a big part of my life, starting with my father, who made his living by playing in clubs pretty much all his life.

Your album, Expando is named after a mobile trailer that you used to live in. Which neighborhood in Sacramento was your Expando?

Our Expando resided in what used to be called the Casa Grande Trailer Village, which was on Auburn Blvd just east of Bell. The trailer park is still there under a different name. It was there before we first arrived in the late 50's. Sometimes when I'm up there visiting my family, I take a little cruise through it, and I'm always amazed at what I would now consider my humble beginnings. By the way, there was a second Expando at the trailer park, and it's still there!

Early on, you were in a surf music band and then another band that was more folk influenced. What was your musical direction based on back then?

Actually, it's the other way around. I started playing and singing folk songs. The surf band evolved out of that (we found a drummer and rounded up some electric instruments). I think my friends and I were a group of musical sponges. We listened to everything.

Did you have a mentor early on that helped you develop your career, someone who encouraged you to follow through with a career in music? Was it your father?

My father just happened to be a musician. He never forced me to take it up, but I really liked the concept of what he was doing.

You've said this is your most personal record. You even worked with your son on one of the songs. What was that experience like?

The experience of working with my son was what any parent might expect. It was part elation, part struggle, and everything in between. Anyone who's raised a teenager knows what I'm talking about. When it was all said and done, I was very proud to add his name to the list of very accomplished musicians who appeared on this project.

What would you say is your favorite moment in your musical career?

Too many to pick just one. My career has far exceeded my wildest expectations. I've worked with Poco, Eagles, CS&N, Ringo Starr, members of The Byrds, The Beach Boys, Elton John, Steely Dan, and on and on. The greatest part is that it's still going strong for me. I try not to take any of it for granted.

Your new album, Expando, is amazing, and it's got some amazing guests -- I was especially impressed by the Kenny Wayne Sheppard solo on "Parachute." Was it intimidating to call up any artist in particular, maybe one who you'd never worked with before?

I figured it was all worth a try. A "no thanks" was the only worst case scenario. I'd say 95% of everyone I called accepted my invitation.

If you could collaborate with anyone on a future record, who would be your first choice? Alison Krauss?

She almost sang on this project. She wanted to, but at the time she was very busy touring with a certain British rock star. Hopefully, next time.

Do you spend a lot of time in Sacramento these days, and is there anything in particular you're excited about for the show here on Friday?

I'd say I get up there to visit my mother and family every couple of months or so. I can't wait to come back and play as a solo artist. It will mean so much to me.

For this tour will you be playing everything from Expando, other solo records, Eagles and Poco too, or is there a more specific focus on this tour?

I'm playing mostly new songs from the album. They are all songs that came totally from me. I will sprinkle the set with some Poco and Eagles material as well.

Obviously, music is a big part of your life. But what else do you have a passion for besides music?

I like being at home doing normal things. I also like to travel with my wife. We enjoy being able to be more spontaneous again after raising children.

After this tour, what's next for you? Do you have any other plans musically, perhaps some work with the Eagles before the April shows at the Hollywood Bowl?

I'll keep writing for the next record. And I'll continue being an Eagle for as long as it lasts.

Tuesday: The Crystal Method rocking Harlow's

2009-06-16T04:41:48Z

Why should you see The Crystal Method on a week night at Harlow's?

Band member Scott Kirkland gives a modest reply: "I know the economy's bad, and it's on a Tuesday night, but it's a real big show."

What speaks more than an intimate show at Harlow's is the band's longevity. According to Kirkland, "longevity," is still the band's greatest achievement. Over the last 15 years, the band has cut four albums, three remix albums and scored two No. 1 records. A platinum record and a Grammy nomination have also been bestowed on the band.

Now on tour to support its latest album Divided By Night, the electronic music duo got an unexpected start in a grocery store.

Ken Jordan and Kirkland met in the break room while employees of a Las Vegas grocery store. Kirkland was messing with a drum machine, Jordan walked in and the two coworkers started to talk about music.

The next thing they knew, the two young musicians were making music together. Nine months later, they had both moved to Los Angeles and in 1994, they dropped their first single "Now is the Time."

Both Jordan and Kirkland grew up listening to metal, rock and roll and pop. Their first three albums incorporated the riffs and beats from these genres, while the duo added vocal samples and distortion.

That was until their latest album. In Divided by Night, guests like Matisyahu and Emily Haines of Broken Social Scene bring hip hop and indie elements into the mix.

"We're trying to create something different from the last album," Kirkland said. "With the vocalists, we kind of look at them as another layer. We're creating something new to continue to expand ourselves."

At the show, the musicians will be playing their old hits like "Keep Hope Alive" and "Busy Child," along with new material. (links open up music videos). Inspired by their Las Vegas roots, a light show will add to an entertaining stage production.

"[The current tour has had] the best responses for a live show in probably 10 years" Kirkland added. "I think everyone's going to be really happy with the show. It's [going to be] a fun night."

The 21-and-over show will be at Harlow's, located at 2708 J St. Opening band L.A. Riot is scheduled to begin at 10 p.m. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at harlows.com or at the door. Tickets that were purchased for the Empire show will be honored at Harlow's.

*Photograph credit Maura Lanahan

Saturday: Luigi's Fun Garden spins pizza and vinyl

2009-06-19T04:16:11Z

Every year, Davis radio station KDVS holds a record swap where local record labels, record collectors and record stores can trade thousands of records. It's likely that a few CDs, T-shirts and turntables will turn up as well.

This year's event will be held Saturday in Luigi's Fun Garden, and music nerds, casual shoppers and passersby can get in for $3. From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. people will be able to visit booths of more than a dozen vendors, including punk-rock labels Gearhead and Prank Records.

KDVS, Midtown Monthly and the 'Zine Symposium held July 11 will also have tables, according to event co-coordinator Heather Klinger. Also a DJ at KDVS, she's been coordinating the event with Tim Matranga for four years.

The event has been held ever since the mid-'60s and has always been an informal affair organized by volunteers. It has previously been held at the now-defunct Fools Foundation art gallery and several other locations.

"Community radio and vinyl just go together," Klinger said. "The swap is a great place to meet other like-minded music people in our community and even learn more about music."

As an added incentive, Luigi's Slice next door will serve breakfast pizza at 9 a.m. Many people arrive early, and more than 100 are expected to filter into the venue throughout the day.

"It's becoming harder and harder to find brick-and-mortar stores that sell vinyl records with so many of the independent stores closing down," Klinger added. "You can't replace the feeling of flipping through actual records."

Luigi's Slice and Fun Garden is located at 1050 20th St.

*Photographs courtesy Heather Klinger.

(Free) Family Fun Day at California Museum

2009-04-23T16:09:17Z

Live snakes, bats and a desert tortoise named Shelly - these animals will slither, fly and crawl their way around the California Museum on Saturday, April 25.

Inspired by Earth Month and Earth Day, Family Fun Day will have the theme "California's Critters and Crawlers."

From 10 a.m.-3 p.m., families and individuals will be able to enter the museum for free and view any of the regular exhibits as well as build crafts, learn about animals and view some endangered and threatened species. The goal is "to learn more about California's natural diversity," said Ashley Robinson, the museum's communications manager.

Emceeing the event will be Francie Dillon, a children's entertainer who will be singing and dancing as well. Interactive booths manned by the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cosumnes River Preserve and Save Our Sandhill Cranes will be displaying things to touch, smell and play with, Robinson said.

Isabella Powers, a local, ten-year-old animal enthusiast, fifth grader, and host of Isabella's Animal Show on the Access Sacramento channel, expressed her interest in the Family Fun Day. "Of course I would want to go to the museum - because there are animals," she said.

In addition to learning about these endangered and threatened animals, "hopefully [visitors] can learn ways to protect these animals. There are simple things we can do to help get them off the [threatened and endangered] list," said Shelly Atkinson, the museum's education and programs manager.

The desert tortoise, California’s official reptile, has been on the Federal Threatened and Endangered Species List since 1980, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Department of Fish and Game will be displaying Shelly, the tortoise, all day.

Live bats will also be displayed, thanks to a woman from NorCalBats, an organization "dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of bats throughout Northern California," according to their website.

"They are not endangered or threatened, but they are considered an animal of concern,” Atkinson said. “Here's an animal that some people may not think is cute and cuddly, but they play an important role in the ecosystem, and without them, bad things can happen."

To round out the lineup of animals, Sacramento Zoo will arrive at 1 p.m. with a red tail hawk, a gopher snake and another desert tortoise.

Atkinson stressed that everything is free - parking, museum admittance, arts and crafts and entertainment. "It's a great way for families to have a great time together learning about California and its animals. The rest of the museum is also open for free," she said.

"You get to learn more about animals seeing them in real life" said Powers, who has one mole, one dog, two Bombay cats, five tree frogs and 11 hamsters.

Powers added, "I also want to say about polar bears: stop global warming. Global warming is melting the ice, and polar bears don't have a place or home [to swim to] so they just keep swimming."

The museum is located at 1020 O Street, on the corner of 10th and O Streets.

Halloween events

2009-10-29T03:27:43Z

Why worry about Halloween plans when you can just read The Sacramento Press' guide to Halloween events? Remember these Halloween safety tips, click each title for more information and enjoy:

Boo at the Zoo

Who: 10 and under, parents.
What: Trick-or-treating, magic shows, kid's haunted house, crafts, food, spooky train, creepy carousel. $9 general admission, $5 zoo members, free for children 2 and under.
When: Oct. 30 and 31, 4:30 - 8 p.m.
Where: Sacramento Zoo, 3930 West Land Park Drive.

Pink Toupee Collective Halloween Eve Festival of Music and Merriment

Who: All ages.
What: Concert featuring Draw Pinky, Hell Toupee, Kelp, Marty Cohen and The Sidekicks.
When: Oct. 30, 7:30 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show.
Where: Ooley Theatre, 2007 28th Street.

Autumn Sky's Creature Feature

Who: All ages.
What: Concert featuring Autumn Sky, Adrian Bourgeois, Carly Duhain and Jared Emme. Costumes encouraged. $6 cover.
When: Oct. 30th, 8 p.m.
Where: Luna's Cafe and Juice Bar, 1414 16th Street

Pumpkin Carving in the Park

Who: All ages.
What: Tools are provided. Pumpkins available for sale.
When: Oct. 31, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Where: McClatchy Park, 3400 5th Avenue.

Midtown Trick-or-Treat

Who: All ages.
What: Trick or treat at Midtown businesses. A costumed "doggy parade" will start at 1 p.m. at 24th & J streets and proceed on J Street to 1801 L St.
When: Oct. 31, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Where: Capitol Ave. to J Street, from 16th Street to 27th.

Spookomotive

Who: All ages.
What: A decorated train staffed by a "skeleton crew" rides along the river for a six-mile round trip. Tickets cost $8 for adults, $3 for children ages 6-17, children ages 5 and under ride free.
When: Oct. 31, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Where: California State Railroad Museum, 125 I St.

Old Sacramento Trick-or-Treat

Who: All Ages.
What: Trick or treat at Old Sacramento businesses. For more information, call 442-7644.
When: Oct. 31, Noon - 4 p.m.
Where: Old Sacramento.

Crocker Trick-or-Treat

Who: 5 and under, parents.
What: Trick or treating, puppet shows, hands on art activities.
When: Oct. 31, 1 - 4 p.m.
Where: Crocker Arts Museum, 216 O St.

Halloween Pub Crawl

Who: 21+
What: Costumes required. Spend 30 minutes at each bar: Shady Lady Saloon, R15 Bar, MVP Sports Grill, DeVere's Irish Pub, Capitol Garage, Gallagher's, Pyramid Ale House, River City Brewery, Vega's Nightclub, River City Saloon.
When: Oct. 31, 6 p.m.
Where: Begins at Shady Lady Saloon, 1409 R St.

Vampire Ball

Who: 21+
What: Tarot readings, vendors, raffle, DJ Johnny Warlock, vampire films, $25 presale, $30 door.
When: Oct. 31, 8:30 p.m.
Where: Vega's Underground Bar, 910 2nd St., Old Sacramento.

Nightmare on L Street: An Urban Masquerade

Who: 21+
What: Reservations required. Black clothes required. $25 includes snacks and desserts, entrance into a drawing for wine and dinner at L Wine Lounge and a portion of the ticket proceeds will benefit HOPE Productions Foundation.
When: Oct. 31, 9 p.m. - 2 a.m.
Where: L Wine Lounge, 1801 L St., Ste. 50.

Dia De Los Muertos

Who: All ages.
What: Altars and art by Andrea "YaYa" Porras. Poetry, music & dance performances by Riza con su Baile de Fuego, Guerrilla Folklorico, Raices de mi Tierra, Danza Azteca and Drag Queen and King performers.
When: Nov. 2, 6 p.m. - midnight.
Where: Zócalo, 1801 Capitol Ave.

California Worldfest features Indigo Girls

2009-07-14T03:52:57Z

Winning a Grammy was not the defining career moment for Indigo Girls band member, Amy Ray. Working closely with R.E.M. didn't make the mark either.

It was opening for the Grateful Dead.

Ray described the unforgettable memory that stands out most from her 30-year music career. "It was a moment of playing this huge stadium [with] 30,000 people, and we were sure nobody would be listening to us. But that's not what happened."

Adds Ray, "People really clapped and they loved us, and it felt like we kind of made our mark in some way, and were able to do something, just, really hard."

The Grammy-award-winning duo, which also includes singer/songwriter Emily Saliers, will be playing at this year's California Worldfest in Grass Valley. The four-day festival, which takes place at the Grass Valley Fairgrounds, features unique music from around the world, family activities, as well as yoga and Tai Chi lessons.

The lineup is eclectic, featuring everything from Mexican-influenced rock band Los Lobos, to Taiko band On Ensemble, or even The Skinny Singers, featuring local favorite Jackie Greene.

"Our producer Mitchell Froom thought it would be a good idea to give the fans a different perspective of the songs, and a lot of the fans wanted to hear us solo acoustic," said Ray. "Instead of having one version of the songs, he thought, 'let's do the songs solo acoustic as well, and give the fans something else.'"

Ray and Saliers first met back in elementary school, and first performed together in high school. They've been playing music together for 30 years, and have released 11 full-length albums.

Their self-titled album won the Grammy for best contemporary folk album in 1990 and 10 of their albums have reached the top 50 on the Billboard charts.

The two have also been active in a number of political and social groups, even helping to create the environmental group Honor the Earth. The group raises awareness about both Native American issues and environmental issues.

"I have passion for a lot of things [besides music], but number one would be nature," Ray said. "[Also] books, art and bicycling. I remember taking a lot of really good bike rides in Sacramento."

At the festival, the duo will be joined by a keyboard player, but will play all of their songs acoustically. Their set will be Friday night from 9 to 10:30 p.m. at the Meadow Stage.

"We just love playing at festivals, there's such a good feeling there," Ray said. "There's so much music around, so we'll be in a good mood for sure."

Advance sale prices for the festival are still in effect until July 16. Camping and non-camping tickets options are available here.

'Under the Dragon' at the California Museum

2010-01-29T18:12:32Z

Suspended from a wall, a Chinese dragon's red eyes peer into mine. Its multicolored head sways playfully, side to side, up and down, mechanical tongue wagging while dancing with glimmering sequins.

To the left of the 5-foot dragon head, a small circular Chinese Moon Gate welcomes me into a new exhibit I've been invited to tour several days before opening. I vaguely remember viewing similar scenery my first time outside of California.

My mind wanders back to 1990, age 5, learning the lion dance in the streets of southern China. I complain to Mother how I'm the only Chinese American Jew in all of China. I miss my Californian friends of many different races.

I walk past a rope, a ladder and a tarp before passing through the Moon Gate. Beyond the gate, the dragon's bright orange, red and green tail continues, 150 feet long, weaving in and out of photographs printed on sailcloth suspended from the ceiling. It's as if all the people in the photographs are holding up the tail.

The photographs feature faces like mine, the faces of other multicultural Californians. It's here I realize it seems silly being a Californian in The California Museum, looking at a to-be-constructed exhibit about other people like me.

The exhibit is called "Under the Dragon: California's New Culture," based on a book by the same name written by Lonny Shavelson and Fred Setterberg. The book and museum serve the same purpose: Each section tells the story of a subject immersed in a stereotype-busting activity, photos capturing moments that lead to a visual anomaly.

Though the book mainly captures people and events in the Bay Area, a prominent section about Mien Americans highlights students at UC Davis. Another section focuses on a photo shoot along the banks of the Sacramento River.

Back in the exhibit, I'm surprised to see nearly 25 cultures represented. More cultures lie on the ground on 6-foot-long strips of sailcloth. I also see Californians adopting other cultures: a Mexican Muslim, a black cowboy, a Filipina Hindu. In another room are an Aztec Catholic, an American in a Balinese orchestra, and a Chinese man and a rabbi — both in sombreros.

It takes me back to the scene that first gave the authors the idea for the book: an annual Chinese New Year Parade in San Francisco. A sudden cloudburst hit, interrupting the parade. The only refuge for the gatherers was under the 200-foot tail of a Chinese dragon. Under the dragon, together with the Chinese, the authors walked alongside Russians, Samoans, African Americans and Latinos through the streets of San Francisco.

Under the Dragon's thesis comes out in the second section: "Ethnicity, nationality, culture and religion persistently intersect, overlap, startle and confuse. The Bay Area has leapt out of the melting pot and into the fire — where the new America is being forged."

The authors further investigate the lives of a handful of people, whose actions and unlikely alliances provide "momentary annulments of hostilities, grievances, and even traditions itself." But equally important, the authors spotlight other Californians who stay at home, or in homogenous communities where they only mingle with people of their own race.

I called up Shevelson to ask if the dragon was intended as a metaphor for the Bay Area, all of California, or the whole nation.

He explained that the book was not intended as a metaphor for the United States, but as a preview of what we can look forward to as other states become more diverse.

"California was one of the first states, if you exclude Hawaii, that crossed the minority/majority threshold," he said. "What that means is that if you add up all of the cultural groups, none of them — including anglos — make up more than 50 percent of the population."

I can't help but think of how well the book characterizes California as I wait in line to spend $25 on "Under The Dragon" at the museum's gift shop. A busload of elementary school children from Elk Grove are in line in front of me. Their diversity reminds me that South Sacramento contains a number of neighborhoods with, among others, Chinese, Vietnamese, Mien, Hmong, Latinos, African Americans, all living next to each other.

Saturday, Jan. 30 through Friday, July 30. California Museum, 1020 O St. $8, $7 college students/seniors, $6 children.

Photographs 4 and 5 credit Lonny Shevelson

Sacramento's Lambda Players honor Harvey Milk

2009-05-21T05:46:54Z

As a tribute Harvey Milk, the American politician and first openly gay man to be elected to public office in California, the Lambda Players Studio Theatre will hold a readers theatre tribute to his life and legacy on his birthday, May 22.

In 2008, Diversionary Theatre of San Diego commissioned Patricia Loughrey to write the tribute play Dear Harvey, which the Lambda Players premiered to Sacramento audiences last Thursday, May 14. The play shows the story of Milk's life through the people around him and shows how he influenced the lives of so many people.

"Milk fought not only for gays and lesbians, but for minorities, the elderly, unions, public transit, health care and even dope smokers and prostitutes. He believed in individual freedoms, the power of community and the importance of gays to come out of the closet, to be seen and heard," according to a press release for the play.

The play is a six-person ensemble show, said Director Sunny Sorrels. Each actor might play Milk for a speech, and each one has another character who he or she plays throughout the show.

"The words just get this great focus [when read in this style]" Sorrels said.

"More than one character observes that Harvey Milk was in the same class as Ghandi and Nelson Mandella. It's about everyone trying to come to grips with who they are in broader but more specific terms, any human struggle really. He was a great protector of people who were made to feel unequal," Sorrels said.

Dear Harvey runs at 1028 R Street Thursdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. through May 31. Tickets are a donation of $5.

According to the Associated Press, the California Senate already approved legislation making Milk's birthday a day of significance. However, the bill still needs the approval of the assembly and Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger who vetoed a similar bill last year.

Trombone Shorty bringing New Orleans soul to Harlow's

2010-03-11T04:55:42Z

Troy "Trombone Shorty" Andrews is a musician's musician. The prodigy started playing music at age 3 and got his big break at age 4 sharing the stage with Bo Diddley.

"It was so long ago I can't remember," said Andrews, now 24. "I remember my mom saying I was playing (trombone) and some people crowd-surfed me to the stage, and they put me on the stage, and that was it."

He earned his name because he could play a trombone before even being as tall as the horn.

Sunday night, Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue will play their high-energy set at Harlow's. Opening will be The Nibblers, a seven-piece rock band led by local singer Hans Eberbach and Mumbo Gumbo members Lynn Michael Palmer, Jon Wood and Reggie Marks.

Andrews grew up listening to jazz and other sounds in the musical Tremé neighborhood of New Orleans, the same neighborhood that jazz forefather Louis Armstrong called home. Both his mother and his brother, trumpeter and bandleader James Andrews, inspired him to embrace music.

He attended the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts, a high school that produced other talented artists like Harry Connick Jr., Nicholas Payton and Wynton and Branford Marsalis. After graduating, Andrews quickly received an invitation to tour in Lenny Kravitz's band at the age of 18, which allowed him to see the world and grow as a musician.

Around the same time, he began releasing albums with his brother, a quintet, and his current band, Orleans Avenue, a project that mixes funk, hip-hop and pop. In 2006, Andrews had the opportunity to perform with U2 and Green Day for the reopening of the New Orleans Superdome.

He also shared the stage at the New Orleans House of Blues with Wynton Marsalis, who said of Andrews, "Shorty possesses the rarest combination of talent, technical capability and down-home soul," adding, "I'm his biggest fan."

Though Andrews is known first and foremost as a virtuoso trumpet and trombone player, he recently started singing.

"My brother James is a singer, and my grandfather was an R&B singer," Andrews said. "I was listening to some of (my grandfather's) music, and it inspired me, and (so did) Lenny Kravitz. Everyone in New Orleans sings, (including, for example,) Louis Armstrong."

Voice, trumpet and trombone all represent part of his character, but Andrews said the two horns best convey who he is. As for his band's sound, he described it as "supafunkrock."

"Supafunkrock to me is just rock, hip-hop and funk from New Orleans," he said. "We just put it in a gumbo bowl, and that's what it is: high-energy funk-rock dance with elements of different things."

Andrews is not just steeped in the culture of New Orleans - it's his passion. His new album Backatown, which will be released April 20, is a personal record about growing up in New Orleans and reaching where he is today.

He explained that Backatown is New Orleans slang for "the next neighborhood over." So "backatown" for the Tremé would mean the Seventh Ward, the French Quarter or even Bayou St. John, he explained.

The album has a number of modern, gritty elements including hip-hop rhythms, according to Andrews. Guests on the album include Kravitz, Marc Broussard and Allen Toussaint, who plays piano on a cover of his own song, "On Your Way Down," the album's only non-original song.

"People in Sactown know how to get down," added Andrews, who played at Sacramento's now-closed Hard Rock Café in May. "The energy I get from the audience and fans, it makes my energy go higher than normal. It's a wonderful feeling to get that energy, and I give it back."

Tickets cost $17.50 in advance and $20 on day of the show. Tickets can be purchased online (here) and at R5 Records, located at 2500 16th St. Harlow's is located at 2708 J Street. The show begins at 8 p.m.

Photographs 1 and 2 credit Jane Richey.

Photograph 3 credit Kirk Edwards.

Events planned for imminent prop 8 decision

2009-05-21T05:37:03Z

Sacramento-based Equality Action NOW is coordinating with several other organizations to hold several community events around the imminent Supreme Court decision on Proposition 8, the recently passed measure that banned gay marriage in California.

Those other organizations include the Sacramento Gay and Lesbian Center, Sacramento Regional Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Intersex Leadership Coalition, Marriage Equality USA and Yes On Equality.

The court will announce the decision on whether or to uphold Prop. 8 on either Thursday, May 21, Tuesday, May 26, Thursday, May 28, or Monday, June 1, but no matter what the outcome of the decision, the Sacramento Gay and Lesbian Center will open at 9 a.m. on these days. Staff will be offering sign-making activities, a first aid station and on-site counseling and counseling referrals through its LGBT Counseling Program.

On decision day, a news conference will be held at 10:30 a.m. at the center, where legal experts, elected officials, religious and civil rights leaders and more will discuss the court decision and how to move forward. Among others, Senator Darrell Steinberg (D-Sacramento), assembly member John Perez (D-Los Angeles) and Professor Lawrence Levine of the McGeorge School of Law have been invited to speak.

Also on the day of the decision, the Gay and Lesbian Center will host a rally from 5:30-6:30 p.m. on its steps, with entertainment and speeches from community leaders. Twentieth Street will be closed between K and L Streets where speakers and a stage will be set up. The street will remain closed until the crowd disperses.

If Prop. 8 is upheld, Equality Action NOW will lead a march from the Center to the Captiol's west steps, where another rally with entertainment and an open mic for speakers will be held. If the crowd remains engaged, there will be an all-night youth rally led by Enrique Manjarrez, Youth Program Coordinator of the Sacramento Gay and Lesbian Center.

If Prop. 8 is overturned, following the rally at the center, the crowd will move slightly south of the intersection of 20th and K, where a stage will feature music and entertainment for the evening. This celebration will last until the crowd disperses.

According to Equality Action NOW's press release, the following community events are also planned:

An Interfaith Gathering in Strength & Hope – Led by Rev. Brian Baker & Rev. Lindi Ramsden – Wednesday, Friday, or Sunday on the Eve of CA Supreme Court Ruling on Prop 8 – At Headhunters Patio, 1930 K Street, Sacramento, CA 95811 – 5:30-6:30 p.m. – Co-hosted by CA Faith for Equality, Unitarian Universalist Legislative Ministry, CA Council of Churches, Catholics for Marriage Equality, Marriage Equality USA, PFLAG, and Equality Action NOW. CONTACT: (916) 708-3390 or email mhdoherty@comcast.net.

Meet Me In The Middle – On the Saturday following Decision Day, [people from around] the entire state will be converging on Fresno, CA. A bus and caravan will be leaving the Sacramento Gay and Lesbian Center at 7:30 a.m. for a group trek to the Fresno City Hall building. Media is invited to interview participants and send a crew on the bus if interested. For more information on “Meet Me in the Middle” and reserve a seat on the bus contactevents@equalityactionnow.org or call (916) 446-1082. Fresno event contact: Robin McGehee atcvgsanetwork@gmail.com.

Doggy Dash and Bark in the Park: William Land Park, Saturday

2009-05-30T00:58:53Z

Peace, love and... pets? Sacramento's SPCA will be holding a dog festival with music this Saturday raising funds for animals sheltered at the SPCA.

Dog lovers and their dogs will converge in William Land Park on the corner of Sutterville Road and Freeport Boulevard for Sacramento SPCA's 16th annual Doggy Dash and Bark in the Park. "Doggy Dash" refers to events beginning at 9 a.m. for registrants who sign up for a 5K run and walk, or a 2K walk, while the "Bark in the Park" is a free event with dog contests, music and food.

In addition to the dog events, there will be a kid zone where parents can pay a few bucks to have their kids play in a bounce house and use a rock-climbing wall, receive airbrush tattoos and make arts and crafts. There will also be a yoga session before the doggy dashes in the morning, which will help participants "bond with dogs" before the event, says Lesley Kirrene, public relations director of the Sacramento SPCA.

"The dash itself is a lot of fun," said Kirrene, who expects 3,000 people to participate in the 2 and 5K dashes, with the Bark in the Park event expected to draw several thousand more spectators.

The Indestructibles, who were voted a top-five Sacramento band by KCRA 3 two years in a row, will be playing at 11:30 a.m. Among other fun-to-watch dog competitions are a kissing competition, a fetching competition and an agility demonstration.

"The look-alike contest is disturbing," said Elisa Hough, who has attended a past Doggy Dash, and is also a copy editor for Sacramento Press. In this contest, the top prize goes to the dog owner who most looks like his or her dog.

"It's a great opportunity to get out on a sunny day with other dog lovers and explore William Land Park," Kirrene said. "It's a great exercise, we have food, and we have lots of fun things to participate in and watch."

"With the river and bike trail, and the new off-leash dog parks, yes, it definitely is," replied Kirrene when asked if Sacramento was a dog-friendly city.

Here is the schedule from the event's website:

7:30 a.m. Run/Walk Registration Begins
8 a.m. Doggy Yoga Session - Arena 1
8:30 a.m. Haute Dogs Agility Group Demonstration - Arena 3
9 a.m. 5 Kilometer Run starts - Start/Finish Line
9:10 a.m. 5 Kilometer Walk starts - Start/Finish Line
9:15 a.m. 2 Kilometer Walk starts - Start/Finish Line
10 a.m. Haute Dogs Agility Group Demonstration - Arena 3
10:15 a.m. Pup Show - Most Enthusiastic Wag - Arena 2
10:30 a.m. Sacramento Police Department K9 Demonstration - Arena 1
10:40 a.m. Pup Show - Best Smile - Arena 2
10:45 a.m. Music Matt - KidZone
10:50 a.m. Pup Show - Best Kisser - Arena 2
11 a.m. Pup Show - Best Tricks - Arena 2
11 a.m. Disc Dogs of the Golden Gate Demonstration - Arena 1
11:10 a.m. Pup Show - Look-a-Like Contest - Arena 2
11:20 a.m. Pup Show - Costume Contest - Arena 2
11:30 a.m. Disc Toss and Fetch Contest - Arena 1
11:30 a.m. The Ulti-mutt Mutt Contest - Arena 2
11:30 a.m. Concert - The Indestructibles - Village Green Stage
11:40 a.m. Pug Races - Heat 1 - Arena 2
11:50 a.m. Pug Races - Heat 2 - Arena 2
Noon Pug Races - Heat 3 - Arena 2
12:10 p.m. Pug Races - Heat 4 - Arena 2
12:20 p.m. Pug Race Off - Arena 2

*Images courtesy Sacramento SPCA

Monday: workshop aims to "Let the Crazy Child Inside Write"

2009-06-14T01:10:00Z

Clive Matson is more than a legendary Beat poet. He's a little bit younger than the Beats, and a lot more honest and raw, which he'll tell you himself.

He's a nature lover, a teacher and a father. And on Monday, June 15, he will be teaching a free public workshop entitled "Let the Crazy Child Inside Write" at the Sacramento Poetry Center.

Poets Q.R. Hand and H.D. Moe will also be reading at the event, which begins at 6 p.m. Matson plans to read from his heralded 1966 poetry collection Mainline to the Heart, along with some more recent works.

When Mainline was published, it was described by one reviewer as "more edgy than the Beats," a critique Matson agrees with.

"I'm carried away either by angst, the pain of what I see, or just the urge to figure out what is going on in the world," Matson said. "Writing is a healing journey, an adventure that takes you places that you'd never expect to go."

It was this attitude that took Matson from an avocado farm in Southern California to the University of Chicago on a full scholarship. Dropping out only two years later, he hitchhiked around Europe for a year before settling in Lower East Side New York.

There he became associated with the Beat Generation writers, wrote poetry and dabbled in drugs. After kicking his drug habit, Matson kept writing essays, poetry and fiction, eventually becoming a teacher in 1978.

In 1998 he published Let The Crazy Child Inside Write, a book about teaching writing. Its thesis says that the source of our writing is an internal "creative psychic passion."

Since he began teaching, Matson has enjoyed watching many of his students become published writers. He's even held writing retreats in the jungles of Costa Rica and at a former student's house in Italy.

An upcoming retreat into the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains will position his workshop at 7,500-feet high during the same time as the Perseid Meteor Shower on Aug. 7.

"I invite anyone to come and join us on that journey, it's healing and growth producing," he said of his workshops.

"People can get in touch with strong passion, feelings, and write quite a bit of raw material, opening a door to the power in our bodies and psyches," Matson said of Monday's workshop. "It doesn't matter whether you think you're a poet, an essayist, or a journalist. Even just having an inkling to do some writing, it will work for you."

The Sacramento Poetry Center is located at 1719 25th St.

*Images courtesy Clive Matson

New Year's Eve ball drop off, fireworks on

2009-12-31T04:14:12Z

You may have already heard the New Year's Eve ball drop is off for this year.

Norm Alvis of Edaddywarbucks.com, which co-sponsored the drop last year along with Paragary Restaurant Group, asked both the city and the Downtown Sacramento Partnership to pay a third of the estimated $100,000 for a ball drop. Neither agreed, so the event was canceled.

One celebration that might compare to the spectacle of last year's celebration, which drew an estimated crowd of 12,000 to 20,000 people, is a city-sponsored event in Old Sacramento.

Organized by the Sacramento Convention and Visitors Bureau, the celebration will feature live music, food and drink vendors and perhaps most importantly, a fireworks display at 9 p.m. and midnight. Internationally renowned company Pyrotechnique By Grucci planned the $40,000 "Sky Spectacular," choreographed to music and featuring computer-assisted launching from West Sacramento.

One unique vantage point for the fireworks display is the Empress Hornblower cruise boat.

The free event begins at 6 p.m. near Rio City Cafe. A tent will hold live music by rock'n'roll singer-songwriter Todd Morgan and Jimi Hendrix-tribute band Ralph Woodson Experience. Radio Disney Rockin' Road Crew will also provide a variety of individual and group performances.

Entertainment continues in the streets of Old Sacramento.

Clemon Charles, a pop and rock artist will play from 6 to 10 p.m. on the corner of Second and J streets. Allie Marcel and Friends will play blues-rock on the corner of Front and J streets from 8 p.m. to midnight, and Autumn Sky will sing pop-folk on Front Street in front of the train ticket booth at 8 and 10 p.m. The Obsidian Butterfly Fire Dance and Performing Arts group will perform on the corner of Front and K streets from 9 p.m. to midnight.

Vendors will be selling warm drinks including coffee, tea and hot chocolate as well as snack foods like kettle corn, hot dogs and pretzels, until about 12:30 a.m. Restaurants in Old Sacramento will also be open and selling food.

"(Previous years), we've had anywhere between 30,000 and 50,000 people," said Mike Testa, The Convention and Visitors Bureau's vice president of communications and public affairs. "Our attendance might be higher because of the economy (since) people are looking for value and it's a family event."

Luckily, a break in rainfall is predicted Thursday night and into the wee hours of the new year. It's not expected to return until about 4 a.m. New Year's Day, give or take a few hours.

There will also be plenty of portable toilets, Sac PD officers and private security, Testa said.

Visit nyesacramento.com for the full entertainment schedule. Visit sacramentopress.com/tag/newyearseve for more New Year's Eve events.

What are your New Year's plans? Please discuss below.

New Year's dancing

2009-12-28T18:01:43Z

Looking for a place to go for New Year's Eve? The Sacramento Press would like to break down the most appealing dance parties for those who like to get their groove on.

Paragary Restaurant Group, who put on the ball drop last year, will be hosting what they bill as the "largest party of 2010."

What: Dinner at Cosmo Café. The Spazzmatics playing 1980s hits at the Cosmopolitan Cabaret and DJ Pat Allen spinning dance hits at Social Nightclub. The cafe and cabaret are all-ages and Social Nightclub is 21-and-over.

Where: The Cosmopolitan Building, 1000 K St.

When: Dinner from 5 - 11 p.m., dancing from 8 p.m. - 1 a.m.

Cost: $50 for access to Social Nightclub and the Cosmopolitan Cabaret. Purchase here. $99 for access to Social Nightclub, Cosmopolitan Cabaret and a three-course dinner at Cosmo Café. Purchase here. $450 and up for VIP tables. For more information call 443-9004 or email vip@nightclubsocial.com.

V101.1 R&B and Old School radio station will be hosting its ninth annual "New Year's Jamming Eve" dance party.

What: The SOS Band, One Way featuring Al Hudson, Kurtis Blow and DJ Gino will perform R&B and classic hip hop. The event is 21-and-over.

Where: The Radisson Hotel Grand Ballroom, 500 Leisure Lane

When: 9 p.m. - to be determined

Cost: $67, tickets available at The Radisson Hotel gift shop (916) 922-2020, Sandra Dee's BBQ and Seafood (916) 448-6375, online at Ticketmaster.com or by phone at (866) 448-7849.

EasternMpire Promotions will hold the "Ménage á Trois" party, billed as the biggest New Year's Eve event in Downtown Sacramento.

What: Three rooms including a "Bollywood" music room headlined by DJ Sohbash, a Top-40/hip hop room headlined by DJ Alazzawi, and an electronic music room headlined by Dyloot, plus a live fashion show put on by Fetti Entertainment. The event is 18-and-over.

Where: The Sheraton Grand Hotel, 1230 J St.

When: 8 p.m. - to be determined

Cost: $40, December birthdays $25. Tickets available at Dimple Records, The Beat and by calling 916-709-2578.

The MiX's First Anniversary and New Year's Eve Celebration

What: A rooftop party with champagne, DJ Jus James, holiday food and drinks. The event is 21-and-over.

Where: MiX, 1525 L St.

When: 7 p.m. - 2 a.m.

Cost: $50, $75 with dinner.

Empire Event Center's New Year's Ball, promoted as "the biggest New Year's bash in Sacramento."

What: Top-40, hip hop and mashups by DJ Junior Fresh and DJ GI, a balloon drop and a live broadcast by KSFM 102.5. The event is 18-and-over.

Where: Empire Event Center, 1415 R St.

When: 8 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Cost: $20

Rude Year's Eve at The Blue Lamp

2009-12-29T03:45:30Z

Abstract Rude's name tells a lot about the L.A. emcee. He picked up "Abstract" when interpretive dance duo Tribe Unique witnessed his crazy dance style and put a name to it.

The second half of the name was added when Abstract Rude began growing dreadlocks in 1991. Older Rastas told him his locks were going to be "rude."

Saturday at The Blue Lamp, Rude will bring his poetic style to live performance, incorporating everything from reggae to soul to interpretive dance. Local emcees C-Plus, Matt Cali, Illicism and Random Abiladeze will open the show, along with DJ Nocturnal.

Rude became interested in hip hop at age 9, when he was inspired to break dance after seeing b-boys perform in the 1984 Olympic ceremonies. He also began doodling on notebooks after seeing graffiti artists in the movie Beat Street.

Rude began rapping in 1991 as a teen. He first recorded in '93 before gaining more attention as part of Project Blowed, an open-mic workshop at the Good Life Cafe in South Central Los Angeles.

Hip hop artists Jurassic 5, Freestyle Fellowship and Pigeon John came out of the workshop. In 1994, Rude and Aceyalone from Freestyle Fellowship produced a Project Blowed compilation album that featured fellow Good Life Cafe rappers.

It quickly gained worldwide acclaim.

"There were letters from South America, everywhere in Europe, everywhere in Canada and that’s when we knew we got something here — there’s a lot of kids feeling what we were doing," Rude told the L.A. Record in a recent interview.

About the same time, Rude gained the attention of Mike D from the Beastie Boys and earned a spot on two of their label's mixtapes, Mixed Drink, Volumes 1 and 2. He soon released an album on that label, Grand Royal, and the rest is history.

Since 1995, Rude has released nearly an album a year, solo and as part of Abstract Tribe Unique (with Tribe Unique), The A-Team (with Aceyalone) and Haiku D'Etat (with Aceyalone and Myka 9 of Project Blowed and Freestyle Fellowship). He also was featured in the 2008 documentary This is The Life: How The West Was Won. The film tells the stories of individuals involved in Project Blowed and The Good Life Cafe scene in general.

Earlier this year, Rude released Rejuvenation, his first solo album in nearly six years, earning critical acclaim. "Abstract Rude boasts an indelible, intoxicating voice," said a review in Spin Magazine. "He raps and sings with equal verve, and his deep baritone resonates with rhythmic power."

The Blue Lamp, 1400 Alhambra Blvd., Saturday at 9 p.m. Tickets $8 at the door. 21-and-over.

BLVD bring 'dance party' to Beatnik

2009-07-24T02:40:29Z

Sacramento brings out the superhero in BLVD, said the quartet's lead vocalist, MC Souleye. Despite being based in San Francisco, the band members feel a unique connection with Beatnik Studios in Sacramento.

Drummer Dylan McIntosh grew up in Sacramento, and the group has made many friends from playing shows in the area.

Before their show there three months ago, band members pulled into the back of Beatnik Studios. They emerged from the doors directly onto the stage.

"I felt like I was Batman coming out of a cave or something," Souleye recalled.

Friday, at Beatnik Studios, the super-quartet will save the day once again with its unique style of dance music, which blends electronic, hip hop and rock styles. The concert kicks off the second leg of the band's North American tour, which also ventures into Canada.

BLVD features traditional rock instrumentation with a guitar, bass and drums. MC Souleye raps lyrics while the band plays danceable riffs.

When the band first formed, it was a trio consisting only of McIntosh on drums, Curtis Sloane on electric guitar and Tripp Bains on bass.

Their approach was to play a live version of what has traditionally been a studio-based music: techno. When recording their three studio albums, McIntosh and Sloane also worked with music samples and digital gear.

Then, about three years ago, at a show in Tucson, Arizona, the band met MC Souleye, who had been touring with Bay Area-based DJ Bassnectar. Souleye collaborated with BLVD until recently, when the band members collectively decided he would front the band full-time.

Souleye appears on 10 of 11 tracks on BLVD's fourth album, Music For People, 2008. The band members have recently been describing their sound as live electronic and electro-hip hop while Jambase.com and Okayplayer.com call them "livetronica" and "trip-hop."

They recently finished recording their fifth album, which will continue in the same vein. It was produced by music veteran Jeff Saltzman, who has worked with bands like The Killers, The Offspring and The Sounds.

"The confirmation that we would have [Saltzman producing the album] was a big moment," McIntosh said. The band recorded the new album over the course of 30 12-hour days. The groups still does not have a release date for the album.

"It was really amazing to spend that amount of time with someone who has made so many great records, and get all his input and advice on what we're doing," McIntosh added.

"It's a positive, uplifting message, combining cool retro riffs and solid hip hop beats," Souleye said.

"We're moving a lot between tempos and trying to create a journey of sorts with people dancing [and] connecting with each other," McIntosh said. "The audience [Friday] can expect a dance party for sure."

Those who attend the show can also expect to hear at least half of the new album, Souleye explained. Maybe even a brand-new song that's never been played before.

"My favorite thing in the entire world is performing, and you'll hear that from each one of us - it's what we live to do," Souleye added. "It's an amazing feeling to be there."

The show begins at 9 p.m., and tickets cost $10 at the door. Opening are DJ G.A.M.M.A., DJ Whores and DJ Mener. Also featured at the studios during the show will be art from the Stilldream Collective.

Beatnik Studios is located at 2421A 17th St.

Photograph courtesy Megan Krouse

Kai Kln to headline first End of Summer Fest concert

2009-08-21T04:40:53Z

"Unfortunately, I'm the idiot [who] came up with the world's worst f***ing band name," said Kai Kln drummer Neil Franklin. "It comes back to haunt me when I have to explain this name and try to pronounce it."

Kai Kln (pronounced "kai" as in "kaiser" and "klin, but ignore the vowel," Franklin said) formed in Carmichael and played its first gig in August 1989 at Southside Park. When the four-piece headlines the inaugural End of Summer Fest concert in Cesar Chavez Plaza, it will be the 20-year anniversary of the band's first performance.

Friday's concert, which is a continuation of Concerts in the Park, will also feature opening band Prieta, a 2009 Sammie award winner for best rock band. Prieta plays fast-paced rock 'n' roll, sounding like a cross between Led Zeppelin and Soundgarden.

Back in the late '80s before Scott Anderson, Neil Franklin, Sherman Loper and Gene Smith adopted it as their band name, "Kai Kln" was a character from a story Neil Franklin wrote in detention. "I had to do something in Saturday detention every week, so I started to write these stupid stories about this character I made up," he explained.

Despite having the "worst" name, in the first year that it existed, Kai Kln quickly made friends with Sacramento promoters Jerry Perry and Brian McKenna, both of whom found the band gigs. After opening for Primus, the band grew in popularity and began selling out gigs in Sacramento and all over Northern California.

By 1992, Kai Kln had already released three cassettes: Rhythm of the Strange, 1990; Hair of the Bud, 1991; and Vigoda, 1992. The songs featured punk and psychedelic rock with a grungy Seattle tint.

The band shared the stage with other big-name local acts such as Deftones, Cake and Oleander, and opened for rock legends such as Sublime, Bad Religion and Nirvana. However, at that point (June of 1991), said Franklin, "[Nirvana] were not the powerhouse they became."

In fact, Nirvana was opening for a larger band named Dinosaur Jr. The show took place at the Crest Theatre.

"Nirvana [consisted of] vegetarians, so we got to drink all their beer and eat all their food downstairs at the Crest," Franklin recalled. "That was my favorite part of playing with Nirvana."

"I still thought they had their first drummer from their Bleach album Chad Channing," he added. "It turned out to be Dave Grohl, and I was a huge fan of the punk band Scream that Grohl played with right before Nirvana. So we talked about Scream for a little while. He ran off chasing girls, and the rest is history."

But Kai Kln's successes didn't stop there. In 1992 the band became the first unsigned band to sell out the 975-seat Crest Theatre.

Lead singer Gene Smith had quit a number of times by 1993, with the other members talking him back into the band every time. But one day, "I just couldn't talk him back into it for some reason, but that's how s*** happens sometimes," Franklin explained.

The breakup lasted for two years, and then the band got back together in 1995, but it "wasn't as fun," Franklin admitted. "Everybody had kids at the time, and it took a shift: All of a sudden it just became a real job, and it's the job you think you want to have, but we got sick of each other I guess."

Kai Kln released another a album, The Matter of Things, in 1997 but played only sporadically from 1998 to 2000. Then the members didn't play any shows until 2007, when they reunited and started playing again on a tour that they named "The Grandpas of Rock Tour."

At Friday's concert, the members expect to bring back an old ritual that they haven't performed since their early years: having a drunk roadie introduce them while covered in costumes and props from thrift stores. An emcee named "Young Jimmy Telethon" will introduce the group to the crowd wearing a "wacky outfit," Franklin said.

Joining the band will also be local musicians Mike Farrell and Nicole Burdock, one of Smith's guitar students. Their set will be the band's first album Rhythm of the Strange, played front-to-back, plus a few extra songs they put on the tail end of the album for the CD re-release in 1995.

"It's the best damn gig in town," Franklin added, referring to Concerts in the Park/End of Summer Fest. "It's so much fun, there are so many people and the sound is great."

End of Summer Fest takes place at Cesar Chavez Plaza on 10th and J Streets from 5 to 9 p.m. every Friday through Sept. 18.

Photograph credits:

Photographs 1, 2 and 3 credit Ilsa Hess.

Photograph 4 credit Denise Wentzel Dunning

Photograph 5 credit Greg Savalin.

Photograph 6 credit Marc Malakie.

New Year's family style

2009-12-30T04:46:37Z

New Year's Eve isn't all about adults. Besides the New Year's Eve dancing and live music options, there are some family-friendly events to choose from.

Sacramento Press community contributor Julia Beckner created a guide to family activities, which is a great resource, but here are a few more opportunities to share quality time with your family.

Noon Year's Eve at the Y

What: Carnival games, swimming, family relays, food, music and dancing for kids ages 2-12 and their adult chaperones.

Where: Sacramento Area YMCA, 2021 W St.

When: 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Cost: $5 for YMCA members, $7 for non-members. Pre-registration is required by visiting sacymca.org or calling 916-452-9622.

Blue Moon New Year's Eve Walk

What: Walk 5 or 10k (3.1 or 6.2 miles) with the Sacramento Walking Sticks, California's largest American Volkssport Association-affiliated walking club. Flashlights are recommended, pets are allowed and the route is suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. Food will be available after the walk.

Where: Starting at the Pioneer House, 415 P St.

When: 5 to no later than 9 p.m.

Cost: Free, but commemorative patches are available for $3.

New Year's Eve at Capitol Bowl

What: Two hours of glow bowling, shoe rental, party favors and noisemakers.

Where: Capitol Bowl, 900 West Capitol Ave., West Sacramento

When: 7 to 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. to midnight

Cost: $50 per lane from 7 to 9 p.m., up to five people per lane. $60 per lane from 10 p.m. to midnight. Reservations required (click here).

Hmong New Year celebration

2009-11-30T06:14:33Z

Thanksgiving Day usually means eating turkey. But for thousands of local Hmong, it means eating Hmong sausage, grilled pork and sticky rice while attending the Sacramento Hmong New Year celebration at Cal Expo.

More than 40,000 people are expected to attend the four-day celebration which begins Thursday and ends Sunday, said John Thao, Hmong New Year Committee board member. The board formed six years ago and consists of one representative from each of the 18 Hmong clans which make up Sacramento's community of approximately 26,000 to 28,000 Hmong. Hmong come from the mountainous regions of China and other countries Southeast Asia.

Nov. 14 and 15, Hmong already celebrated the new year at home with their immediate families and close relatives, Thao said. The celebration at Cal Expo is more than a New Year celebration - it's a festival of unity, a way to show wealth, meet new faces and come together to show support for the Hmong community in Sacramento, he said.

At 10 a.m. Thursday, General Vang Pao, will be cutting a ceremonial ribbon and giving a speech during the celebration's opening ceremony. A Hmong American born in Laos, the General fought in the Royal Lao Army and is revered by both Hmong in the U.S. and Asia. He was recently released of conspiracy charges.

His speech will kick off four days of events including a Miss Hmong California pageant, a Hmong Idol singing competition and a play reflecting on why the Hmong celebrate the new year.

The celebration will include local and international performers singing, playing music and dancing, said Tony Moua, the event's entertainment chair. Hmong people from China, Thailand and Laos, as well as other Asian American groups from Sacramento, are expected to attend the festival.

Moua and Thao both said they were excited that General Vang Pao will attend the celebration.

"He doesn't visit the area very often, (so) this is a wonderful event for Sacramento," Moua said. "It means the whole world to me, and it means that the region is strong and dynamic."

"It's important to all the Hmong, he's a hero to the people," Thao added.

Sacramento and Fresno both have about the same population of Hmong, the largest in California. Thao said that Fresno's Hmong International New Year celebration will be held Dec. 26 - Jan. 2, and will hold the Miss Hmong International pageant.

He also said he was looking forward to watching the play, which will reflect the history of why Hmong people celebrate the new year. This will be the first time the play will be produced, and it will be held on the first day of the event.

One New Year tradition is playing "Swb Pob", pronounced "pah-bah," which Moua said has similar rules to an egg toss. It acts as a way to socialize and meet new people.

Competitors wearing traditional Hmong clothing begin standing 10 feet apart while tossing a ball to each other. Each team must back up five feet every three minutes until they are 35 feet apart. The last person still tossing at the end will win a $100 cash prize.

"It's a celebration of life and for people to meet each other and promote culture," Moua said. "We are extending our hands to reach out and we would hope others do the same."

Hmong New Year takes place from 10 a.m. until an unspecified evening closing time, Thursday through Sunday at Cal Expo, 1600 Exposition Blvd. Click here for the full schedule.

Photographs credit Lou Lo Photography. Photos show My Tzer Lao, last year's Miss Hmong California.

New Year's music

2009-12-30T04:37:55Z

There is so much to choose from this New Year's Eve in Sacramento. New Year's dancing venues are detailed in this article. Sacramento Press community contributor Barbara Ambler-Thomas wrote about the Empress Hornblower Cruise in Old Sacramento and Julia Beckner previewed several family activities.

The following is a guide to several of Sacramento's New Year's Eve concerts featuring (mostly) local bands.

Twitch Angry, White Minorities, Prylosis, Nekrosylum, Chernobog and Lycanthrope

What: "New Year's Cancer's Evel" will feature metal and punk bands, hosted by music video and MySpace star Metal Sanaz. The event is also a cancer research fundraiser for the Derek's Wish Foundation. All ages.

Where: The Colonial Theatre, 3522 Stockton Blvd.

When: 8 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Cost: $10 at the door

Three Bad Jacks, The Secretions, Baby and The Problem Girls

What: Punk Rock New Year's Eve at The Blue Lamp, 21+

Where: The Blue Lamp Lounge, 1400 Alhambra Blvd.

When: Doors open at 8 p.m., show at 9 p.m.

Cost: $12 in advance (click here), $15 at the door

Richard March, The Inversions, Pushtonawanda

What: New Year's Eve Extravaganza of folk and indie rock. All ages.

Where: Fox & Goose Pub and Restaurant, 1001 R St.

When: 8 p.m.

Cost: Free

Dirt Nasty, Andre Legacy, Justin Barnes, Dominic "D-Trix" Sandoval, nearly a dozen DJs

What: A live hip-hop show, dancing and all-inclusive well drinks and beer are included with tickets to this show. 21+

Where: The Elks Building, 921 11th St., Grand Ballroom and House Mezannine

When: 8 p.m. to 3 a.m.

Cost: $75 presale (purchase here), $100 door. VIP booths range from $900 to $3,000 and can be purchased by calling 530-870-7049 or emailing vip@sacnewyears.com. Tickets after 1 a.m. cost $25.

Lite Brite, Storytellers and Shades of Grey

What: Jerry Perry Presents hosts a New Year's rock'n'roll concert. 21+

Where: Old Ironsides, 1901 10th St.

When: 9 p.m.

Cost: $7 at the door

The Mother Hips, The Parson Readheads

What: Marilyn's annual New Year's Eve Bash. 21+

Where: Marilyn's on K, 908 K St.

When: 9 p.m.

Cost: Sold out.

Sources: emusiconnect.com, undietacos.org, sacramento365.com

More than 100 performers to pay homage to 'The Duke'

2010-03-17T05:45:06Z

This weekend, the Sacramento Master Singers will perform excerpts from Duke Ellington's "Sacred Concerts." It marks several important homecomings.

It will be a homecoming for the Grammy-winning piece, which was played by Ellington and his legendary orchestra in 1965 at Sacramento's Westminster Presbyterian Church. Friday through Sunday, it will be played at the Crest Theater, less than half a mile from the church.

It will also be a homecoming for Ardie Bryant, the "Ambassador of Tap," who spent his early years in Sacramento and graduated from Sacramento High School. Saturday, the legendary bebop jazz tap dancer, who has danced with everyone from Ellington to Count Basie, Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie, will turn 81.

He will join the Master Singers during a section of the "Sacred Concerts" called "David Dance," originally performed by Tap Dance Hall of Fame inductee Bunny Briggs.

Bryant said he will do two things upon returning to Sacramento. The first is to visit his parents' grave site, and the second is to participate in the Duke Ellington concert, which he said he considers an honor.

It's more than just a couple of homecomings, though. It's going to be a mammoth performance, probably the largest and most complex the SMS have ever performed, said Conductor Ralph Hughes.

All told, the stage will feature more than 100 performers, including the Master Singers, two American River College jazz bands, the Harley White Jr. Orchestra, several dancers and readers from Celebration Arts, the Capital Jazz Project, a handful of vocal soloists and Bryant.

According to Kathy Ossman, Sacramento Master Singers president and lead alto, to fit on the Crest's stage, the performers will need extra platforms to extend beyond where the current stage ends. Hughes said the score is so complex, ARC Jazz Director Dyne Eifertsen, CJP Pianist Joe Gilman and Hughes are all required to share cues and conducting duties.

Then, on top of that, there will be audience interaction. The Sacramento Regional Community Foundation, which helped SMS fund the show, wanted the group to include community participation.

"Some (audience participation sections are) with the whole audience, and some are with volunteers," Ossmann said. "There's a prayer section about what we need (to be) forgiven (for), and we have a chance for audience members to write what that may be in a booth in the lobby, and they can read that."

No one is more qualified to comment on Ellington's music than Bryant, Ellington's friend and musical partner. He also performed the "Sacred Concerts" for the first time in 2004 at the Disney Concert Hall with the Los Angeles Master Chorale.

"He composed all kinds of music, but (the Sacred Concerts) were the religious perspective of the man," Bryant said. "It's very moving, well-written and exciting to know that the man was that kind of person."

Ellington was also one of the most prolific jazz composers of all time, best known for penning some of the genre's most enduring classics, including "It Don't Mean a Thing," "Take the 'A' Train" and "Caravan."

"You really had to be on the ball to be in his company, because everyone working with him was saying something, and he gave you freedom to express yourself," Bryant said. "He used to play (piano) with me (tapping), and we would exchange rhythms," he said, adding, "bop-a-dee-bap-a-dee-bop!"

The 8 p.m. Friday show will be a free performance to high school and youth groups. Those who wish to attend should contact the Sacramento Master Singers business manager at 916-788-7464 or smsbusiness@surewest.net.

Public performances will be held Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets cost $20 for adults and $10 for students and can be purchased at mastersingers.org, by contacting the business manager, or at the door at 1013 K Street.

Photographs: Sacramento Master Singers, credit Bruce Patt Photograpy.

Artists cluster for Headhunters

2009-07-11T15:36:08Z

Even before it began the evening of Tuesday, June 30, Michael Kennedy was sure Dinner for the Arts would be successful.

As Kennedy, co-creator of Dinner for the Arts, sat in his own Kennedy Gallery waiting to walk over to Headhunters for the weekly event, he told the Sacramento Press, "This is going to be a hit!"

His prediction turned out to be true. Headhunters on K, located at 20th and K Streets, was packed with about 50 artists, members of the arts community and arts supporters.

A mist of water sprayed those in the crowd as they dined, chatted and viewed performances late into the warm evening. After dinner, people strolled over to Kennedy Gallery, which opens to coincide with the dinner.

The event was envisioned by Kennedy and Friends of Dorothy Productions to bring the arts community together. Friends of Dorothy's Artistic Director Courtney Parks invited local performers, and the event was on.

"Artists tend to stay in a small space, [but here] we get to share our ideas," said local pottery artist Dana Bilello-Barrow. She was displaying her art in the Kennedy Gallery during the event.

Local 25-year-old artist Erik Blackwell explained that Sacramento's art scene needs support from the public. "Any event for the arts is always a great idea," he said.

"It is important for people in the arts community to network and for patrons to be reminded of why they love theater and the arts," added West Ramsey, Friends of Dorothy's publicist.

Parks emceed the stage and performed a number of songs from upcoming Friends of Dorothy Production The Green Room. Also performing were the Hot Pot Belly Dancers, who shook the stage, literally.

Following the belly dancing, Kennedy introduced the artists on display at the Kennedy Gallery, Green Room lead Lefras LeRoux sang several songs and ICUP Improv Troupe staged an interactive comedic performance.

Dinner For The Arts is held the second and forth Tuesday of the month through September, when it may change to monthly. July 14 is the next show. See fodproductions.com for details.

*Photographs courtesy Fino Balanza

Don't miss these events!

2009-03-15T05:50:45Z

Caesar was warned to "beware the Ides of March" (March 15) in 44 B.C. It turned out to be the day he was murdered. However, this week holds so many events, including many St. Patrick's Day festivities, Sacramento Press wants you to get out into the community, have some fun, and stay positive.

Sunday, March 15 - The Ides of March (Beware!)

Though registration is already over, come out and cheer on the runners in the Shamrock'n Half Marathon. According to the website, proceeds raised by runners will go to a scholarship fund to award a Sacramento-area college student who aspires to teach children with special needs. See the map here, and please try to keep your car off the race course. Raley Field / 400 Ballpark Drive, West Sacramento / through downtown / 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m / shamrocknhalf.com
Last Comic Standing Dat Phan headlines the last of four shows at the Punch Line in Sacramento also featuring Kevin Camia and Chazz Hawkins. Check out this story for more information. $15 / Punch Line / 2100 Arden Way #225 / 8:30-11 p.m. / purchase tickets here
What better day to see Shakespeare's Julius Caesar than the anniversary of his death? Sacramento City College Theatre students will be reenacting the famous play. "In Shakespeare’s most political play, we see the effect of political intrigue, betrayal, violence, and tyranny and we are left with the question as to who is the hero and who, the traitor," says the City Theatre website. $10 / Sacramento City College / 3835 Freeport Blvd. / 2 p.m. / purchase tickets here

Tuesday, March 17 - St. Patrick's Day

Inside the Director's Studio will be held to let people see the Sacramento Ballet up close and personal while rehearsing for Modern Masters, Abbreviated. $15 / The Sacramento Ballet Studios / 1631 K Street / 6-7 p.m. / sacballet.org
MIX and de Veres will be throwing a block party, which according to the Bee will begin at 10 a.m. and last for 12 hours. Tickets are $15 each in advance, or $20 the day of and are on sale now at de Vere's and MIX. The event is 21 and over and admission includes the beer garden, de Vere's Pub and MIX Downtown. Irish Dancers will be at the party throughout the day and live Irish music begins at 11 a.m. A Tainted Love and Shakedown concert begins at 8 p.m. at de Vere's. $15-$20 / on the 1500 block of L Street / 10 a.m.-10 p.m. / Details
A St. Patrick's Day Parade will be held in Old Sacramento at 6 p.m. and according to the website, "the family friendly parade steps off in front of the California State Railroad Museum and promises to delight the Irish and Irish at heart with over 60 colorful entries and 900 marchers including Irish step dancers, bagpipers, colorful costumed marchers, school bands, cultural organizations and more! …you can also enjoy traditional Irish food." Free / Starts at the California State Railroad Museum / 111 I St, Old Sacramento / 6 p.m. / Details
Presentation by President Obama's sister, Dr. Maya Soetoro-Ng on "Leadership and service in the 21st century." Free / Sacramento State University Union Ballroom / 2 p.m. / see this story for more information

Wednesday, March 18

Russell Peters, international superstar comedian will perform stand-up at the 18-and-over Punch Line. He sold over 100,000 copies of his first stand-up DVD Outsourced in 2006 and recently released his second DVD Red, White and Brown this year. He will be performing multiple nights beginning Wednesday. Better get tickets fast because his Friday and Saturday night shows are already sold out, indeed a common occurrence for his shows worldwide! $40 / Punch Line / 2100 Arden Way #225 / 8:30-11 p.m. / purchase tickets here

Thursday, March 19

KRS One, Hip Hop pioneer and recipient of the BET Awards Life Time Achievement Award, will be playing Empire with Righteous Movement, 2 Ugli, DJ Mr. Vibe, J. Good and DJ Caz. Pick up your tickets at United State clothing boutique, Dimple Records, or at groovetickets.com. $15 dollar presale tickets (ticket prices at the door not available at the time of press) / Empire Events Center / 1417 R. Street / 6:30 p.m. / tickets and more information

Saturday, March 21

House of Floyd will be covering Pink Floyd songs along with a laser extravaganza at the Crest Theatre. "This is a live recreation of an actual Pink Floyd concert and highlights the greatest and most popular music of their career... complete with special effects, back screen and laser lighting," says the Crest Theatre's website. $40 adult / $38 senior / $32 students and children / Crest Theatre / 1013 K Street / 8 p.m. / purchase tickets here
The Capital Stage Founders Peter Mohrmann and Jonathan Rhys Williams will star in American Buffalo, a classic American play which "weaves humor and menace throughout an emotionally charged struggle for identity and dominance," according to a recent Sacramento Press article. $15 / Capital Stage / 1000 Front Street, Old Sacramento / 7 p.m. / purchase tickets here

A week of "El Santo" films at La Raza Galeria Posada

2009-10-26T07:12:08Z

Rodolfo Huerta, lucha libre wrestler and one of Mexico's most beloved film icons, is known as El Santo, or "The Saint." What's surprising though, is that the masked wrestler-cum-actor lived up to his exalted moniker on and off the screen.

El Santo "saved" the Mexican film industry as it was on its deathbed, creating films that drew patrons back to the big screens, said Fred Dobb, film curator at La Raza Galeria Posada. When El Santo died in 1984 at the age of 66, thousands watched as the famous actor/wrestler was buried in his signature silver mask.

For one week, starting Monday, La Raza Galeria Posada will show an El Santo film every night. The free series is sponsored by the Consulate General of Mexico.

El Santo was a poor child and sacrificed to get into wrestling, Dobb said. After his career took off, he was turned into a comic book hero, then became a film superstar.

Dobb described the familiar plot of El Santo's 50-plus films: The good guy, El Santo would fight a number of enemies, which included monsters, vampires, werewolves, martians, evil geniuses and Nazis.

"These films are unique in that they combine genres (such as) sci-fi, horror, action, adventure and wrestling," Dobb added. "His first film was in the early '50s, during the end of the Golden Age of Mexican cinema."

"Lucha libre is next to soccer and before bullfighting (in significance) in the cultural psyche of Mexico," said Michael Collett, the gallery's education manager and photographer. "It has elements of prime-time soap operas and WWF."

Although entry, popcorn, beer and wine are free, donations are welcome. Films begin at 7 p.m. at La Raza Galeria Posada, 1022 22nd St. On Thursday, Dobb will speak about El Santo's life and legacy.

The films are:

Monday: Anónimo Mortal (Anonymous Mortal), not subtitled

Tuesday: Santo y Blue Demon en la Atlántida (Santo and Blue Demon in Atlantis), subtitled

Wednesday: Santo vs. Las Lobas (Good vs. The Wolf), subtitled

Thursday: Santo en el Museo de Cera (Ghost in the Wax Museum), subtitled

Friday: Santo y Blue Demon vs. Los Monstruos (Santo and Blue Demon vs. The Monsters), not subtitled

If that's not enough lucha libre films, on Halloween the gallery will show Revolucha, a 2007 documentary about a lucha libre match in Detroit. It stars El Hijo del Santo, the only one of El Santo's 11 children who became a professional wrestler. Costumes are suggested.

Pablo Francisco performing at the Punchline

2010-01-08T02:48:37Z

Though he's not onstage at the moment, comedian Pablo Francisco is already warming up. A little after 8 a.m. Thursday, Francisco is on the phone telling dirty jokes, making fun of himself and impersonating celebrity actors Michael J. Fox and Shia LaBeouf.

Francisco brings a fresh and diverse persona to comedy, with sound effects, slapstick impressions and fast-paced non-sequiturs peppering his routine. Thursday through Sunday evening, the Chilean-American comedian will perform at the Punchine with Matt Claybrooks, Sean Savoy and Ashley Fils-Aime opening.

Originally from Tuscon, Ariz., Francisco's career choices didn't always go over well with his parents. He recalled delivering pizzas in the afternoon and doing comedy at night. Occasionally after a show, he would come home at 1 a.m. and his parents would be pissed off.

"This guy who lived a few blocks away, the cook at the comedy club, used to always let me stay at his house so my parents wouldn't give me s**t," he said. "And he let me drink all the beer I wanted, so we became good friends."

Francisco eventually moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career. He worked on television commercials and wrote for NFL Films before landing a job as writer and featured player in the second season of "Mad TV". He became the first Latino cast member of the show in 1996.

Since leaving "Mad TV," he appeared in several Comedy Central specials, toured with Carlos Mencia and Frank Soto as part of the "Three Amigos," and collaborated with fellow "Mad TV" alumnus Frank Caliendo.

He's now perhaps most famous for celebrity impersonations, which began with him impersonating his friends as well as radio personality and voice actor Casey Kasem. Since then, he's become best known for impersonating voice-over artist Don LaFontaine, but his impersonations of Arnold Schwarzenegger and Keanu Reeves are also spot on.

"I met Aaron Neville when I was doing his voice," he said. "He gave me a 'what the f**k?' look. I wouldn't do that in front of him now, because he has a tattoo on his face."

Despite success in television, Francisco credits the Internet for boosting him into the limelight.

"I'm happy YouTube exploded and worked for me and my comedy tremendously," he said. "You can advertise and be on the Internet. Everyone's moving to the Internet sooner or later. I started realizing that and relaxed a little more."

He credits this for his successful tour in Europe last year.

"We sold like 10,000 tickets in seven minutes," he said. "They all knew who I was. That was a good moment — you don't even know you're popular somewhere and you still sell tickets. They love the YouTube."

How do you do an impression of someone from Sacramento?

"I'd put (on) a mean heavy Latino accent," Francisco said, "and when you want someone's ass kicked, you call the Hells Angels."

Pablo Francisco, 8 p.m., Thursday through Sunday at Punchline Comedy, 2100 Arden Way, with an additional 10 p.m. show Friday and Saturday. $25, advance tickets can be purchased here. Two-drink minimum. 18+