Cincinnati Hosts 2012 World Choir Games

Cincinnati Hosts

2012 World Choir Games

Countdown Begins with Kickoff July 11

CINCINNATI (OH) – The countdown to the 2012 World Choir Games in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA officially starts with a celebration event July 11 at downtown Cincinnati’s Fountain Square from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Cincinnati native Drew Lachey – member of Grammy-nominated 98 Degrees and winner of the second season of ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” – will emcee the event, introducing a variety of national musical performers and kick starting a yearlong cultural celebration that will put Cincinnati USA on the international stage.

Choir member from Venezuela 

Cincinnati's Fountain Square will be abuzz with strolling choirs and festival-style booths celebrating the region’s rich international flavor and heritage. Lachey will take the stage at noon, welcoming the following local and national musical performers:

·         Atlanta-based Gospel recording artist Byron Cage with more than 50 singers from the Cincinnati Citywide Mass Choir. Known as the "Prince of Praise," Cage has been performing and recording songs since the 1980s and has become known for his cross-cultural, mass-appeal praise and worship style. His work has been nominated for Grammy, Stellar and NAACP Image Awards.

·         The Eleventh Hour Choir from Kettering, Ohio, finalists in the NBC hit show “The Sing Off.”

·         Singer and songwriter Kelly King, star of “The American Dream,” presented at the 2010 World Choir Games in Shaoxing, China.

Lachey will also host the debut public appearance by Whirl, the official mascot of the 2012 World Choir Games. The mascot, designed by local artist Davis Stanard and produced by Stagecraft, Inc., in Northside, will be available for photos.

Prior to that – beginning at 11:30 a.m. – Dan Lincoln, president and CEO of the Cincinnati USA Convention & Visitors Bureau and member of the Cincinnati Organizing Committee for the 2012 World Choir Games, will unveil the official 2012 World Choir Games Countdown Clock with Cincinnati Mayor Mark Mallory. The clock is being created by Harrison, Ohio-based Geograph Industries Inc., and will be a permanent fixture on Fountain Square until the Games are completed in July 2012. Lincoln will also welcome Hamilton County Commission President Greg Hartmann, who will recognize the volunteer leadership of the Games from across Cincinnati USA.

In addition, international pin trading opportunities – modeled after pin trading at the Olympic Games – will begin with the unveiling of exclusive, limited edition pins commemorating the Countdown to the Games.

The World Choir Games, produced by Germany-based INTERKULTUR, is the largest international choral competition in the world and is held every two years. The 7th World Choir Games will take place July 4-14, 2012, and for the first time ever will be hosted in the United States. The event is expected to attract 20,000 competitors from about 70 countries. Procter & Gamble is the first Presenting Sponsor of the 2012 World Choir Games.

 For more information about the 2012 World Choir Games:

    ·         www.2012worldchoirgames.com

             ·         Facebook.com/world.choir.games.2012

·         Twitter.com/worldchoirgames

    ·         Flickr.com/2012worldchoirgames

        ·         Youtube.com/2012worldchoirgames

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook.
Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

The Phoenix Theatre Announces 2011-12 Season

The PHOENIX THEATRE ANNOUNCES

2011-12 SEASON

Indianapolis – The Phoenix Theatre of Indianapolis proudly announces the 2011-12 season. It includes three World Premieres, two Tony Award winners, a Pulitzer Prize winner, four Midwest premieres and another entry in the ever-popular holiday variety show.    

Spring Awakening

September 22-October 23, 2011

Music by Duncan Sheik, Lyrics and Book by Steven Sater

Mainstage – Midwest Premiere

Spring Awakening is a rock musical adaptation of the controversial 1891 German play of the same title by Frank Wedekind. Set in late nineteenth-century Germany, it is all about teenagers who are discovering the inner and outer tumult of sexuality. The original play was banned in Germany for a while due to its portrayal of abortion, homosexuality, rape, child abuse and suicide. In the musical, alternative rock is employed as part of the folk-infused rock score. Spring Awakening received 11 Tony Award nominations in 2007, winning eight, including Tonys for best musical, direction, book, score and featured actor. The show also won four Drama Desk Awards, while its London production won four Olivier Awards.

Jericho

October 27-November 20, 2011

By Jack Canfora

Frank and Katrina Basile Theatre – National New Play Network (NNPN) Rolling World Premiere

 As we approach the 10^th anniversary of 9/11, this comic drama that deals in a sharp and witty way with where we are as a nation in regard to this tragedy and more specifically the process of grief, forgiveness and healing. Beth’s husband Alec died in the World Trade Center on 9/11 and she sees and talks with him often.  In fact, she sees him when she speaks with her female Korean therapist. Beth is dating for the first time since her husband was killed and through her relationship with Ethan, she meets Ethan’s brother, Josh.  On the verge of divorcing, Josh’s mother Rachel is putting her life together after the death of her husband, ironically in the same tower as Alec on 9/11. 

A Very Phoenix Xmas 6: Our Goose is Cooked!

December 1-December 23, 2011

By Various Artists

Phoenix Mainstage 

The Phoenix Theatre continues its “tradition” of providing counter-programming to the traditions of other arts organizations, starting with all-new sketches. After receiving submissions from playwrights across the country, Fonseca will once again shape the show with the selection of sketches – mostly humorous, but some poignant – which send up the winter holidays. Add to this music and dance and you have A Very Phoenix Xmas.   

Current Economic Conditions

January 12-February 12, 2012

By Don Zolidis

Frank & Katrina Basile Theatre – World Premiere 

Current Economic Conditions is a charming, yet bitingly sarcastic, look at the serious social message of how skewed our society’s perceptions of our work force have become. Lily Booker is trained as a writer and has an entry-level job at a publishing company. She soon finds out that her job is being eliminated and she has the option of staying on at the company as an unpaid intern or leaving entirely. Rather than go backwards in her career, she leaves and begins a journey that will take her through various scenarios as she must move back in with her parents (at 26), contemplate graduate school, and go on one miserable failed job interview after another while her parents judge her for staying out at night at clubs.

August: Osage County

February 16-March 11, 2012

By Tracy Letts

Phoenix Mainstage – Midwest Premiere

Winner of the Pulitzer Prize and a Tony Award for Best Play, Tracy Letts’ darkly comic drama August: Osage County is set on the plains of modern day, middle-class Oklahoma. The Weston family members are all intelligent, sensitive creatures who have the uncanny ability of making each other absolutely miserable. When the patriarch of the household mysteriously vanishes, the clan gathers to simultaneously support and attack one another.

Freud’s Last Session

March 15-April 15, 2012

By Mark St. Germain

Suggested by The Question of God by Dr. Armand M. Nicholi, Jr.

Frank & Katrina Basile Theatre – Midwest Premiere

This exciting and thought-provoking drama centers on legendary psychoanalyst Dr. Sigmund Freud who invites the young, rising Oxford Don C.S. Lewis to his home in London. On the day England enters World War Two, Freud and Lewis clash about love, sex, the existence of God and the meaning of life, just weeks before Freud takes his own life.  Freud’s Last Session is a deeply touching play filled with humor and exploring the minds, hearts and souls of two brilliant men addressing the greatest questions of all time.

 

TBA

April 19-May 13, 2012

Phoenix Mainstage

Special Presentation

May 17-May 26, 2012

Frank & Katrina Basile Theatre

 We will soon be announcing details about our sixth annual bilingual play to be seen during this time slot.

   

Next Fall

June 7-July 8, 2012

Geoffrey Nauffts

Phoenix Mainstage – Midwest Premiere

Next Fall takes a witty and provocative look at faith, commitment and unconditional love. While the play’s central story focuses on the five-year relationship between Adam and Luke, Next Fall goes beyond a typical love story. This timely and compelling new American play forces us all to examine what it means to “believe” and what it might cost us not to.

With A Whimper

July 12-August 12, 2012

By Pete McElligott

Frank & Katrina Basile Theatre – World Premiere

Pete McElligott continues his postmodern superhero tale with the second in a trilogy that started with last season’s With A Bang.

Ticket Details:  The Phoenix FlexPass

The Phoenix FlexPass will be available through October 31, 2011. A FlexPass for $100 gets a patron five vouchers that can be traded in for any combination of tickets for any of the 2011-2012 productions.

CheapSeats performances will continue on Thursdays with tickets remaining at $15 per person. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday performance tickets will be $25 for all shows. The Phoenix will continue to offer a youth rate of $15, for those individuals aged 20 and younger.

Tickets for the new season may be purchased by calling the box office at 317.635.7529 to charge by phone, and will be available to purchase online at phoenixtheatre.org beginning August 1, 2011. All seating is general admission on a first-come, first-served basis. Performances are Thursdays at 7 pm; Fridays at 8 pm, Saturdays at 8 pm and Sundays at 2 pm, unless otherwise noted on our website. Doors open 30 minutes prior to curtain. The Phoenix Pub, located inside the theatre, offers beer, wine, soft drinks, coffee and bottled water, as well as treats. Refreshments are allowed into theater during performances.

ABOUT THE PHOENIX THEATRE

The Phoenix Theatre is Indiana's only professional contemporary theatre, and has presented productions to challenge and entertain the Indianapolis community for 29 years. An Equity house, the theater presents the Midwest and Indiana premieres of many popular Broadway and Off-Broadway plays, and has presented more than 83 world premieres in its quarter century.

The Phoenix operates the 130-seat proscenium Mainstage as well as the 75-seat cabaret-style black box Frank & Katrina Basile Theatre. Both venues are housed along with administrative offices in a renovated 1907 church in downtown Indianapolis' historic Chatham Arch neighborhood, part of the Mass Ave Arts & Theatre District.

The Phoenix Theatre is a member of the National New Play Network and the League of Indianapolis Theatres. It is supported by the Indiana Arts Commission, the Arts Council of Indianapolis and the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as local corporate and foundation funders and more than 400 individual donors.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook.
Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Rock and Roll BBQ 2011 Announces Musical Lineup

ROCK AND ROLL AND BARBEQUE

INAUGURAL EVENT TO SIZZLE

** Press Release **

INDIANAPOLIS – For many people, nothing tops the flavorful taste of barbecue with the mix of rock and roll. These two things will be celebrated during the inaugural Rock And Roll BBQ from July 1 – 3
in the Victory Field west parking lot.

Reserved tickets now on sale for music and food festival

The Rock And Roll BBQ’s lineup includes:

 Loverboy

 Puddle of Mudd

 Charlie Daniels Band

 Gin Blossoms

 Soul Asylum

 Saving Abel

 Rev Theory

Charlie Daniels

Nationally recognized barbecue and food vendors will also be on site including:

               Big Boned BBQ Co.

                                Cowboys Barbeque & Rib Co.

             Porky Chicks BBQ

                            Rick’s Smokehouse & Grill

 Sweet BBQ

Reserved tickets are now on sale for the event. Other ticket options include VIP seating and
general admission. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit indyrockandrollbbq.com.


Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook.
Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Capri Ristorante Cookbook Review

Arturo di Rosa (right)

Capri Ristorante: The Flavors of Italian Tradition is the  recipe book created with love (or should I say, "creato con amore"?) by Capri Ristorante's owner Arturo di Rosa. The Italian eatery is located at 2602 Ruth Dr., on Indy's northside. Tucked away behind a dense shopping area (close to 71st and Keystone Ave.,) Capri's may be considered a hidden treasure in the Circle City. I was given this cookbook as a gift while dining at Capri's for lunch recently.

Born in a fishing village near the Bay of Naples, di Rosa began culinary schooling at the age of 14 in Salerno. He began working in restaurants in Florence, Rome, and, eventually, The Savoy in London. He literally worked his way from the bottom up. He landed in our town after being invited by customers (along his culinary path) to attend the Indianapolis 500 and liked the city enough to stay.

Seafood Risotto

Although I ate lunch at the eatery, I did not take notes or pictures for a full review; I plan to return for one, however.
For now...I will review the book. It is certainly more than a cookbook, or recipe book as di Rosa calls it. It embraces Italian culture, passion and history. It covers di Rosa's path to Indianapolis, his beliefs and the exact recipes and methods used in Capri Ristorante.

Whether explaining the importance of making pasta in-house, and including the how-to to achieve great results at home, or giving out special sauce recipes, this book takes you into the kitchen of Capri's Chef Gennaro di Rosa (brother of Arturo). Pictures and tips are placed throughout to help you along the path.

Chef Gennaro di Rosa making mozzarella

Pictures and descriptions of the restaurant, the staff and family create that hospitality for which Italians are known. The Lasagne Bolognese (p. 62) offers the recipe for the needed Bechamel sauce, while a modern spin can be found for Spaghetti Carbonara (p.55). A favorite of foodies, Osso Bucco, is covered (p.113) Milanese-style, complete with a Gremolata recipe.

Although there is not a dessert section, stocks, sauces and soups are covered.

With more than 80 varieties in stock, di Rosa offers his theory on choosing wine for your meal."Taste is the bottom line, he states in the book. "If you like it and the price is right, that's the best wine for you."

Bottom Line: Capri Ristorante The Flavors of Italian Tradition serves up recipes, wisdom and that all-important feature: Italian hospitality and passion.
Website for more information and to purchase cookbook: www.Capriindy.com

Credits: Photographer-Stacy Newgent; Creative Director-Kathy Davis; Recipes-Chef Gennaro di Rosa; Food Stylists-Patrick Whetstone, Jon Oliver; Owner of Capri-Arturo di Rosa

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook.
Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Dig-In 2011

NOTE: To see list of vendors, wineries, breweries, restaurants, click here.
Dig-In 2011 Volunteers Needed 

INDIANAPOLIS (June 27, 2011) – Dig-IN, A Taste of Indiana, is looking for volunteers to help with the second annual event, Aug. 28 at White River State Park.

Dig-IN is a showcase of Indiana chefs, growers and producers.  Visitors are treated to two-ounce tastes of unique dishes made with farm-fresh Indiana produce and proteins.  More than 30 of the state’s greatest chefs and food minds will prepare the tastes on site while discussing their recipes and the all-Hoosier ingredients with visitors.

“Dig IN combines the best Indiana has to offer in the way of food and culinary creativity,” said Ann Schmelzer, program manager for entrepreneurship and diversified agriculture with the Indiana State Department of Agriculture. 
Even the beverages used to wash down the tastes will have an Indiana flavor: The Indiana Wine Grape Council and Brewers of Indiana Guild will provide wine and beer tastings, and local soft drinks and water will be served as well.  Local music, urban gardening exhibits, educational discussion panels, local expert Q&A sessions will round out the day.

Julie Bolejack, chocolatier, Chocolate for the Spirit-Dig-In 2010

“Last year, we found people really enjoyed the food, the speaker series, the entire atmosphere of celebrating and focusing on Indiana from farm to fork,” said Neal Brown of Neal Brown Hospitality Group, which operates Pizzology and the soon-to-open downtown Indy restaurant, The Libertine.

Volunteers are needed to help with hospitality, ticket sales, children’s’ activities, chef/speaker/band assistance and other tasks. Volunteers at least 18-years-old are asked to attend a training session in advance and work a minimum of 2.5 hours. Volunteers receive free parking, free admission and a T-shirt. 

For more information or to complete a volunteer application, visit www.digindiana.org/volunteer/.  Applications are due by Aug. 15.

WHAT:    Dig-IN, A Taste of Indiana food festival

WHERE:    White River State Park Celebration Plaza, 801 W. Washington St., Indianapolis

WHEN:    Sun., Aug. 28, noon-5 p.m.

COST:    $20 in advance, $30 at the gate, children under 3 are free.

INFO:    www.DigINdiana.org or (317) 607-8715

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook.
Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Indiana Historical Society Concerts on Canal 2011 Season Schedule

Indiana Historical Society’s

2011 Concerts on the Canal Schedule

Monday, July 4

Indianapolis Municipal Band

Patriotic tunes and marches

Craig Brenner and the Crawdads

New Orleans rhythm and blues and boogie woogie

Gregg Bacon

Thursday, July 7

Carmel Brass

“Red, White and Blue in Brass” - renditions of popular tunes and patriotic melodies

Thursday, July 14

Forever the Tribute

Favorite hits from The Beatles

Thursday, July 21

Sizzlin’ Gregg Bacon

Jazz favorites and R&B and pop classics

Thursday, July 28

Actors Theatre of Indiana

“Songs We Knew During World War II” – the music of the 1940s

Thursday, Aug.  4

Peace Train and the Flower Power Brass

Rock ‘n’ roll hits from the late 1960s and 1970s

Thursday, Aug. 11

Brenda Williams with Cold Fusion

Classic R&B hits from the 1960s and 1970s

 For tickets, event schedule, and hours, please visit Indianahistory.org.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook.
Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Restaurant Review: The Bread Ladies

The Bread Ladies is a restaurant located in the heart of Greenfield, just east of Indianapolis in Hancock County. The bakery/eatery features its own bread and baked goods, along with sandwiches, soups and salads.

On my first visit, I ordered the Signature Bread Ladies Foccacia Sandwich. It comes with ham, turkey, roast beef, vegetables, such as carrots, cucumber and peppers, and their signature smear. Their smear is cream cheese with Italian seasonings (according to the server).

This sandwich was large…two meals large. I learned from the first visit to take half home to leave room for dessert. At $7.95, including chips, the value was definitely there. As was taste. Although I am not a fan of cucumbers, sliced thin and layered with other vegetables and meats, gave the sandwich a nice crunchy texture. I definitely want to return and try more items like the Reuben, chicken salad and the peanut butter chocolate chip cookie.

The prices were in line for the “from scratch” food. The staff was friendly and the menu clearly defined. There is some seating out back on a deck, and the food was delivered to our table in a timely manner. Both times I visited, the temperature was extremely chilly. I recommend wearing a heavy shirt (or two) since it seems to be common. Also note that anything you get extra has an up charge. The ones we encountered were $1 for cheese, .75 cents for smear and .75 cents for raspberry flavoring for lemonade.

Entering through the door, you are immediately greeted with jumbo cookies, brownies and muffins. Piled high and stacked in clear jars, it’s difficult to pretend you want anything off the menu besides those goodies. You order a salad or sandwich while glancing regularly toward the glass cases for reassurance there will be post-meal snickerdoodles.

Or bread pudding; which is what I ordered. Regular readers will remember my passion for excellent bread pudding. This version, at $3.25, was good. Not my favorite (Magdalena’s in Corydon, IN still holds that title) but good with a butter sauce, obviously handmade, and hot. They did not disrespect the pudding by putting in raisins, pineapple or peaches.

While checking out the website, thebreadladies.com, I was unable to peruse the menu. A message stated, “You are not authorized [sic] to view this resource. You need to login.” This could be an issue for the café since people often check out menus online before going to a new restaurant. It might influence them to go to another where they are able to see a menu beforehand. In a time when websites are often the front door to the potential customer, this one’s potential will rise if they fix that glitch.

Bottom Line: The Bread Ladies serve up quality ‘from scratch’ sandwiches and baked goods in a casual, small town friendly atmosphere.

Photo credit: Elizabeth J. Musgrave

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook.

Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Indianapolis City Ballet Announces Evening with the Stars 2011

Indianapolis City Ballet is proud to announce that international ballet star and soloist from American Ballet Theatre Daniil Simkin leads the roster of stars for the annual Evening with the Stars performance on September 10 at the Murat Theatre at Old National Centre. Daniil’s performance last year in “Le Corasire Pas de Deux” (with Boston Ballet’s Misa Kuranaga) was astonishing in its technical bravura and his signature “Les Bourgeois” brought down the house.

Indianapolis City Ballet Announces Daniil Simkin to Headline Evening with the Stars 2011

Daniil Simkin will also be performing on the Young Stars of Ballet program on Friday, September 9 at 7:30PM at the Murat Theatre at Old National Center. “We want to give these young and emerging stars of ballet an opportunity to perform on a program and participate in rehearsals with today’s stars so when I mentioned the Young Stars program to Daniil, he graciously and excitedly joined the program - as he said ‘I’m happy to do it for the kids’” said ICB producer Kevin Hesse..

Daniil was born in Russia, raised in Germany and schooled in ballet at home by his mother, a former dancer. A gifted academic student, he studied at a prestigious school inWiesbaden Germany and trained after school. Without the typical ballet school recital schedules, his artistic goals were instead set and tested on the competition circuit. He won first prize and Gold Medal at Varna in 2004, the Grand Prix inHelsinki in 2005 and Senior Gold at the USA International Competition in 2006. He joined the Vienna State Opera in 2006 and American Ballet Theatre in 2008 where he dances soloist and principal roles. Daniil is a renowned guest artist with major companies in Europe and Asia and a star performer in galas around the world

Ticket Information – On Sale Now!

Young Stars of Ballet

Produced by Indianapolis City Ballet

Friday, September 9, 2011 at 7:30PM

The Murat Theatre at the Old National Centre

Evening with the Stars

Produced by Indianapolis City Ballet

Saturday, September 10, 2011 at 8:00PM

The Murat Theatre at the Old National Centre

Order online: www.LiveNation.com

Call: 800-745-3000

Box Office: Murat Theatre at the Old National Center, 502 N. New Jersey, Indianapolis, IN 46204

Group discount available for groups of 10 or more: Contact Elli Baker at 317-339-1413 or elli@indianapoliscityballet.org.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook. Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Indy Jazz Fest 2011 Schedule Headliner is George Benson

Indy Jazz Fest Announcement 2011

 

INDIANAPOLIS (June 9, 2011) – The Indy Jazz Fest, presented by Marsh, announced Thursday, June 9, that multi-Grammy award-winning musician George Benson will be its 2011 festival headliner. The artist announcement party at the Indianapolis International Airport marked the beginning of the festival's 13^th year and a celebration of the festival's year-round dedication to strengthening the Indianapolis jazz and arts scene. 

The 2011 festival will be held over a six-day period in many locations, combining the great venues of Indianapolis with the diversity of jazz styles. Additional Saturday Main Stage performers include Spyro Gyra, Yellowjackets and Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue. These Main stage performers will be joined by acts on the Jazz Legacy and Emerging Artists stages. The full schedule and ticket information are available at the festival’s newly redesigned website:www.indyjazzfest.net

Multiple Venues

This year's featured venues include the Madame Walker Theatre, Cabaret at The Columbia Club, The Jazz Kitchen and the Christel De Haan Fine Arts Center at the University of Indianapolis, all leading up to the outdoor grand finale on Saturday, September 17 held on the grounds of Opti-Park and the Indianapolis Art Center in Broad Ripple. Gates open at noon with music on three stages from 1 p.m to 11 p.m.

 

Ticket and Membership Information

Now in its third year as presenting sponsor, metro Indianapolis Marsh Supermarkets will again serve as the ticket outlet for purchasing advance discount tickets. Discount tickets will go on sale August 1, 2011. Attendees can pay only $25 on the regular general admission ticket price of $30 when buying in advance at Marsh Supermarkets.

New for 2011 is a VIP membership ticket and the return of the popular week-long JAZZpass. The VIP and week-long passes are available online at www.indyjazzfest.net. Additional support for the education and performance programs can be given through theIndy Jazz Fest Membership Program, with packages starting at only $50.

 

Sponsorship Information

 Indy Jazz Fest continues to be an example of community success through the dedication and support of its generous sponsors, Marsh Supermarkets, Printing Partners, DCG, Klipsch, Indiana Brewers Guild, United Water, Owl Studiosand The Jazz Kitchen. A variety of support levels and special advantages have been designed to make sponsorship experiences both enjoyable and rewarding. Those interested in learning more about sponsoring the 2011 Indy Jazz Fest can contact us at (317) 988-7854 or david@indyjazzfest.net

Wine Review: Easley Winery Governor's Merlot 2010

I stopped by Easley Winery, 205 N. College St., Indianapolis, the other day to give an out-of-town visitor a view of Indy's downtown winery and to pick up  a few bottles of Monument and Riesling wine. While there, owner Meredith Easley had a bottle of the recently released Merlot for me and asked for my thoughts on their latest red.

Please note that I am not a sommelier, but an everyday, average wine drinker. Easley is aware of that fact as you, if you read my column or blog regularly, know also. With that said, I am always ready and willing to try out a new wine. Although I have been a wine drinker for many years, and written this column (and now blog also) for going on five years, it is my first official wine review.

The Governor's Merlot 2010 is 13 percent alcohol by volume and label-described as "wonderful, mellow, dry, red wine. It was aged in oak barrels that were grown in Hoosier National Forest. It is an excellent wine paired with beef, pork and pasta dishes."
The wine was named after the 5th Governor of Indiana, Noah Noble. The land where Easley Winery sits today was once owned by Governor Noble. Nice homage.

The wine was indeed oak-balanced. Although the label states it is a mellow wine, I would describe it as slightly heavy, rich with earth tones and that marvelous oak backdrop. This is not a wine to sip on the back deck while intermittently playing Frisbee with friends. This is a wine with a serious nature and one which expects your full attention. With its earthy layers, it has a certain agenda in mind and if you ignore that and treat it lightly, you will lose the entire purpose of this drink. Open the bottle and let it breathe while you slip on the appropriate music and fix the correct meal for this not-so-simple vine offering.

My suggestion for the meal: A thick steak, cooked to your liking (which I hope does not go past medium well) accompanied with mushrooms in some fashion. A cheese with this combination might be the Greek sheep's milk cheese, Kefalotiri which complements the Merlot, beef and the mushrooms. If you are not a fan of mushrooms, my choice would be an older Manchego (Viejo), a sheep's milk cheese from Spain. The aged variety has a peppery flavor which would pair well with Easley's Merlot. Both cheeses can be found in a gourmet-style food shop such as Whole Foods Market.

Photo by Bob Burchfield/AroundIndy.com

A central part of my enjoyment with wines is food pairing. However, I don't stop there. I believe that wine is one piece of several which make up the experience. Drinking wine while overlooking a lake is a different experience than that same wine being enjoyed while snuggling in front of a fireplace.

With that in mind, music can detract or enhance the mood and experience as well. For example, Governor's Merlot is not a Beach Boys kind-of wine and would lose the attention deserved to its deep layers if you were singing along with Good Vibrations.
Wine + food + environment + music = great experience. You get the idea.

My choice of music: For this wine, with that meal, I would have to go with music which draws you into it. If you are a Classic Rock listener, go for Turn the Page by Bob Seger or Knights in White Satin by The Moody Blues. If opera is your taste, perhaps try Philip Quast's Javert in Les Miserables. Whichever genre is your favorite, stick with something not too light. Special note: John Lodge, the Moody Blues' bassist and vocalist, just uncorked his own wine label Krisemma.

Bottom Line: Easley Winery's Governor's Merlot 2010 is layered with earthy flavors, balanced with oak and served best with a steak or thick burger. Enjoying a fine cigar with this wine would not be out of line.

For more information on hours, costs, tastings, Groovin' in the Garden, Taste of Indy, and Indy Wine Trail, visit EasleyWinery.com.
Photos: EJMusgrave; Bob Burchfield

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on AroundIndy.com, Twitter @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook.
Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Holy Rosary Italian Street Festival 2011

Holy Rosary Parish, 520 Stevens St., Indianapolis, opened its annual Italian Street Festival last night with a quickly growing number of people for the perfect weather. Catholics and non catholics are welcome for this fundraiser held, literally, on the steps of the south side's parish.

A favorite part of the festival for me is people watching. And the food. And people making food. Every year dedicated volunteers roll up their sleeves (figuratively) in the 90+ degree weather and the scorching sun to dish up meatballs, spaghetti and cannoli. No good Italian festival is good without Italian beer and wine, however, and there was plenty of beer chilling on ice and wine being uncorked.

I didn't find a couple of traditional items this year. I asked and looked around but did not see the cigar lady rolling her handmade smokes this year. I also failed to find my beloved gelato. Not sure if I somehow overlooked both of these tents, but no one I asked seemed to know where, or if, those were available this year. If you find them, let me know; otherwise the festival won't be the same for me.
The family friendly event offers a mini-Midway alongside the parish and includes rides and games. You can find rubber ducky games, dart-throwing and basketball tossing. Rides include a carousel for the little ones as well as older kid's rides.

The best part of this festival is the spirit of the people who hold it and those who attend. Everyone's spirits are high and welcoming, joking and laughing while they dish up hundreds upon hundreds of their goodies for those wanting to capture the flavor of the Italian cuisine and culture.

Hours: Friday , June 10: 5-11 pm; Saturday, June 11: 5-11 pm rain or shine
Website: www.HolyRosaryParish.org
Note: The Italian Street Festival is held the 2nd weekend of June annually (in case you missed this year's).
Photos: Elizabeth J Musgrave
Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, music, restaurant and performing arts critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, on aroundindy.com, and follow her on Twitter @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook.

Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Movie Review: Gnomeo and Juliet

What do you get when you combine William Shakespeare and Walt Disney? Well, in this case, you get Disney's Gnomeo & Juliet, now in Blu Ray and DVD.

Watching this movie, and being a fan of the Bard, I couldn't help but revel in the animated version. Shakespeare tale of two feuding families. A boy and girl from each side falling in love, and the angsts which follow, play out well for the family. Very well, actually.

With talking gnomes, runaway lawnmowers, and each garden statue tribe trying to outdo the other in regard to their respective backyards, the modern take holds up for young audiences. The Capulets and Montagues are seen as the Reds and Blues in this Disney delight, with voice talents from Sir Michael Caine, Emily Blunt, Dame Maggie Smith, Dolly Parton, Ozzy Osborne and more. Music is furnished by Sir Elton John.

Specials include: alternate endings, music videos and Ozzy Osborne segments.

Bottom Line: Disney's Gnomeo & Juliet is an excellent teether for future Shakespeare fans and a delightful twist for fans of all ages.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook.
Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Concert Review: Glee Live

Love it, hate or never seen it, Glee, as in the television show, has become a household name. Glee Live! made a stop June 2 in Indianapolis, Conseco Fieldhouse, to the satisfaction of several thousand screaming teens and adults. What's in store for anyone in future cities for Gleeks (Glee fans)? Cheerleaders (aka Cheerios) handing out "barf" bags, video time with Coach Sue Sylvester, and a nonstop, positive energy show with the message that whoever you are is exactly who you should be. Total acceptance.

Photo credit: Great Exposures

The show features the popular TV characters, Kurt, Santana, Brittney and the rest of the club dancing, singing and joking their way in to the hearts of loyal fans, (portrayed by Chris Colfer, Naya Rivera and Heather Morris, respectively). Interspersed with audience interaction, the singers demonstrated their talents most in Mercedes' (Amber Riley) rendition of Aretha Franklin's "Ain't No Way," The Warbler's version of Paul McCartney's "Silly Love Songs," and the Kurt-led, lip-synched Beyonce hit, "Single Ladies," which proved a crowd favorite.

Photo credit: Great Exposures

The phenomenon known as Glee can be compared to a mini-Beatlemania (or whichever fan-crazy star you wish to insert). It seems that the mania craze IS the craze. No one is stopping the 'tweens, teens and twenty-somethings from going ga-ga over their favorite group. The joy in delving into their artist of choice is pure and marvelous to witness.

The non "Beautiful People" crowd is enjoying a high like never before. Celebrities, artists and television shows are embracing their un-Barbieness and raking in the fans (and money). Lady Gaga, Adam Lambert, Pink, Glee and Ugly Betty are just a few examples of "out" being the new "in." And Glee is right there at the top.
Every gender-, social-, and ethnic-, issue is addressed by the Glee Club, a group so diverse Josephine Baker would be satisfied. For those of you who are too young, or are just unaware of the ugly duckling/swan story of Ms. Baker, it's good reading...and viewing. You can find more information on Youtube.com.

Bottom Line: Gleeks everywhere will be gleefully satisfied with the Glee Live touring concert...and barf bags won't be necessary.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, music, restaurant and performing arts critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, on aroundindy.com, and follow her on Twitter @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook.
Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.