Indiana's Covered Bridge Loop

Experience Indiana’s Covered Bridge Loop in Southern Indiana

Six Counties. Nine Bridges. One Great Trail.

The Indiana Covered Bridge Loop is an approximately 216 mile route featuring nine historic covered bridges scattered over waterways in Bartholomew, Brown, Decatur, Jackson, Jennings and Lawrence counties.

Click here for downloadable map and directions.

The Loop features single, double and triple span bridges, and the only remaining double tunnel bridge in Indiana all built by well-known master craftsmen. Four of the bridges are featured on the National Register of Historic Places. See the oldest covered bridge in Indiana built in 1838, now residing at the Brown County State Park, and the longest three span covered bridge in the United States just outside of Medora, Indiana. Visitors can experience driving through six of the covered bridges.

Visitors tour two significant covered bridges on the Loop through Jackson County both built by master builder Joseph J. Daniels.  The restored triple-span Medora Covered Bridge, built in 1875, is an example of Daniels’ use of Multiple King Post Truss construction with Double Burr Arch design.


The Shieldstown Covered Bridge, built one year later, was the last covered bridge constructed in Jackson County. Built at a cost of $13,600, the two-span bridge is 355 feet long and spans the East Fork of the White River.

The Indiana Covered Bridge Loop brochure serves as an information guide and is complete with a map, GPS coordinates and a brief description accompanied by bridge photos. Loop brochures are available at the Bartholomew, Brown, Decatur, Jackson, Jennings, and Lawrence County Visitors Centers and online.

For information call the Jackson County Visitor Center at 888-524-1914 or visit jacksoncountyin.com

Photos submitted by Jackson County Visitor Center.

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.

Heartland Film Festival 2011 Sneak Peek Fundraiser on August 25

Click here for 2011 schedule and info: Heartland Film Festival 2011Schedule

INDIANAPOLIS (July 12, 2011) – Heartland Truly Moving Pictures will kick off the 2011 Heartland Film Festival with its first public fundraiser in its 20-year history on August 25, at the Mavris Arts and Event Center in downtown Indianapolis (121 S. East St.).

Hoosiers and Rudy producer and writer Angelo Pizzo and director David Anspaugh are scheduled to attend the event along with many other local filmmakers with Heartland ties. The evening will include a first look at some of the 2011 Heartland Film Festival selections including a review screening of a 2011 Festival short film.

The event also includes a live auction featuring a 2011 Heartland Film Festival ticket package, an Indianapolis arts ticket package including tickets to:

• Indy Jazz Fest
• Dance Kaleidoscope
• Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra
• Indiana Repertory Theatre
• Indianapolis Zoo
• Indianapolis Museum of Art

and more, as well as vacation packages to Sun Valley, Idaho and Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico.

“We’re hoping that this fundraiser will be the first of many as we continue to build awareness of our ongoing
need for financial support,” said Jeffrey L. Sparks, President and CEO of Heartland Truly Moving Pictures.
“It’s an honor to have some of our past filmmakers back to help us raise funds and we’re especially excited to
have Angelo and David in attendance.”

Tickets for this event are on sale now for $95 per person. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. A limited quantity of
Entourage Packages are also available for $1,000 and include 10 tickets, reserved seating and Entourage
Lounge access. Tickets can be purchased at TrulyMovingPictures.org/HFFSneakPeek.

One Film Can, the Campaign for Heartland Truly Moving Pictures was publically launched in August of
2010. The Campaign is designed to provide Heartland with the resources it needs to be a dynamic, effective
and nationally recognized catalyst for inspiring filmmaking, and to make a positive impact in people’s lives.
All proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit the Campaign.

Visit TrulyMovingPictures.org/HFFSneakPeek for more information and to purchase tickets.
Heartland Truly Moving Pictures, a non-profit arts organization, seeks to promote positive change in people’s live through the transformative power of film. Its flagship event, the Heartland Film Festival®, launched in 1991 and runs each October in Indianapolis, screening independent films from around the world. Each year, the Festival awards more than $150,000 in cash prizes and presents its Crystal Heart Awards to the top-judged submissions. Heartland has awarded more than $2.3 million to support filmmakers during the last 19 years.

The organization’s Truly Moving Picture Award was created to honor films released theatrically that align with Heartland’s mission. By bestowing this award seal to honored films, the award allows studios and distributors to inform audiences of a film’s transformative power and appeal. Heartland is also dedicated to cultivating youth, and thus created the Heartland Institute to provide innovative educational and outreach programs that enrich the minds and lives of youth and aspiring filmmakers.
For more information, visit TrulyMovingPictures.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.

Theater Review: Beef and Boards: Church Basement Ladies 2

Quite often the first offering in a series of books, films or plays is the best installment as if all the good stuff was poured from the creator's soul leaving nothing back.

It takes years to create. It becomes a hit (if they are fortunate) and the expectations are to produce, in a much shorter time-frame, the same quality for the obligatory second and third segments. When the second installment is as good as the first, perhaps even arguably better, it stands out. (Godfather/Godfather 2)

Beef and Boards, Indianapolis, has such a situation currently on its stage. Church Basement Ladies 2, A Second Helping, is based on the books of Janet Letnes Martin and Suzann Nelson, the creators of the best-selling book Growing Up Lutheran.
Written by Greta Grosch; directed by Curt Wollan, with music and lyrics by Dennis Curley and Drew Jansen, the show continues on stage through Aug. 28.

The script is stronger this go-round, containing more deeply layered characters with full stories rather than the initial stereotypes.
Emulating Forrest Gump, the characters help each other through historical milestones, including the Kansas City Chiefs vs Minnesota Vikings 1970 Superbowl game, women's rights and the progressive Ecumenical Church. Death, birth and love are quilted into the fabric of the ladies' lives bringing the common bonds of all people to the front pew.

Portrayed by last year's cast, in its entirety, each actor seems to have a deeper relationship with their respective roles: Karen Pappas (Mavis); Katherine Proctor (Karin); Licia Watson (Vivian); Liza Bark (Beverly) and Eddie Curry (Reverend Gunderson).

Whereas last year's offering was supported mainly by Curry and Pappas, this season's CBL2 finds a cast of more solid abilities who have definitely found their stride.

Bottom Line: Beef and Boards' Church Basement Ladies 2 catapults over the original in script, talent and musical offerings.


For tickets, schedule and information: BeefandBoards.com
Photos: JulieCurryPhotography.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.

Children's Museum Haunted House 2011 Vampire Vacation

Children's Museum
Haunted House 2011
Vampire Vacation

The 2011 Haunted House – Vampire Vacation – will feature a vampire family vacation with siblings ‘Vivienne’ and ‘Victor’ heading off to different “dead-stinations” around the U.S.

As is tradition with The Children’s Museum Haunted House, both Lights On hours for younger visitors and Defender Direct’s Frightening hours for those who “dare-to-be-scared” will be offered. 

Vampire Vacation will be the 48^th annual Haunted House fundraiser held by The Children’s Museum Guild to benefit The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. 

“2010 was a great year for the Haunted House having been named one of the 10 best haunted houses in the U.S. by Rand McNally Online, celebrating a 20-year record attendance of more than 62,000 visitors, and contributing more than $500,000 to The Children’s Museum,” said Alli Stitle,. “Last year’s success is a great inspiration for us to build on with the 2011 Haunted House.”

For information, tickets, schedule and hours, visit ChildrensMuseum.org

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

Movie Review: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 arrives in theaters today in 3D format. As the last of the saga, this was probably the most anticipated by fans and those who make their living from the long-running successful dynasty by J.K.Rowling.

The final segment of a series is approached by the fan and critic alike with one question: Will it give complete closure? We don't want to feel cheated (think Misery by Stephen King) and expect the author, screen writers, director, et al, to wrap our years of loyalty with a respectable ending.

Did Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 fulfill that duty?

Absolutely.

The 3D effect definitely added to the drama and the final proffering delighted the loyal fans, particularly with the "19 years later" segment. Giving the proper closure to the characters with whom many have grown up. Provided were the answers for many mysterious actions, including those by Professor Snape (Alan Rickman). Although it is understandably difficult to include every detail by the author, the disposal of the wand (without giving anything away) was the difference which stood out most.

The movie scores high garnered by the reaction of the screening audience, which included some in costume. In fact, the excitement surrounding the movie and the costumed fans were as much a part of the experience as the revisit to Hogwarts.

 From left: Loudermilk, McCullough and Rauch

Three Noblesville High School students, Claire Loudermilk, 14; Tori McCullough, 14; and Karsen Rauch, 14 will be freshmen in the fall but made their summer extra special by attending the screening for the film. Dressed for the experience as Death Eaters, they were prepared for magical mischief with wands and sported Death Eater tattoos.

Bottom Line: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 satisfies the most important people of all: the fans. If you have not kept up with the Harry Potter Series, I recommend spending the weekend watching the videos and then catch this film on the big screen. If you have, you will be completely content with the closure of each character.

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.

Fair Food 2011

Deep-fried Klondike Bar

More than your child’s blue ribbon, winning a goldfish or watching a tractor pull; the most looked forward to item at state, county and local fairs is the food.

Fair food is in a food group all its own and not to be found on the nutritional food pyramid. Metamorphosed from real food, it is junk food on steroids. Noir movie director Tim Burton could not conjure the weird extremes which have been taken with once reasonably edible stuff.
Nothing is too far out, nothing is off limits, and anything healthy can, and will, be turned into the sinful delights we dream about the rest of the year.

So what’s out there for the official Indiana State Fair Food 2011?

Ice Cream Burger

Fair food royalty, and Indiana-based, Dennis and Cheryl Reas are part of the family owned Carousel Foods. The king and queen of the gastro lab are keeping loyal subjects satisfied with this year’s menu of burgers, including fair attendees' favorite the Donut Burger, the French Toast Burger and the Ice Cream Burger.
Not a typo, folks, this burger comes with its side of milkshake on top. Lift up the bun (if you dare) and you’ll see a chunk of deep-fried, cinnamon-coated frozen dairy product.

Deep-fried Kool-Aid

Keeping pace with the outrageous offerings of last year’s deep-fried butter, the southern Indiana family continue to push the gastro limits with Deep-fried Kool-Aid. Somewhat like a doughnut hole, it is made from a thick batter heavy on the cherry-flavored Kool-Aid powder drink mix. Dropped in fair food-required hot oil, it’s presented sprinkled with powder sugar.

Orangeade Shakeup

Orangeade Shakeups return and are guaranteed to replicate exactly the flavor of the favorite drink from Indy's Tee-Pee restaurant which once sat in front of the state fairgrounds.

Other items in Carousel's arsenal include Deep-fried Brownies, small, molten deep-fried (of course) chocolate treats and a southern helping of chicken and waffles...fair style.

Eggo Chicken

The Eggo Chicken makes its debut on the menu with a deep-fried chicken breast nestled between two Eggo brand waffles. First dipped in an egg wash, the waffles are breaded with crushed Cap'n Crunch cereal and served hot off the grill.
Carousel concession stands are located west of the Pavilion.

Other gastro goodies to ingest on the fair circuit this year are deep-fried, beer-filled pretzels, deep-fried spaghetti and meatballs and for dessert? Deep-fried Tiramisu on a stick…chocolate coated.

*Special note-The food fair crew lost a member recently. Cheryl Reas' father Larry Orme, of Carousel Foods, passed away in March of this year while doing what he loved: running food concessions. His wife Olivia will continue working with the family business.

For more information, events, schedule and tickets for the Indiana State Fair, visit IndianaStateFair.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.

Tarkington Theater Announces Free Events and Grand Opening

Tarkington Theater Opens

with Free July Previews

Carmel (July 8, 2011) – The Center for the Performing Arts has finalized plans for the Tarkington Theater’s month-long preview celebration. The July performances culminate with a special red-carpet curtain raising on August 6, featuring Broadway and television star David Hyde Pierce, the Center’s artistic director Michael Feinstein, American Ballet Theatre dancers and Carmel native Julia Bonnett, winner of the 2009 Great American Songbook competition.

To attend the free previews, guests are required to request seats by calling the box office at 317-843-3800. Seating is limited. All performances will be offered in the Tarkington Theater, which is located across the Green from the Palladium (Third Avenue SW & City Center Drive).

In addition to the July preview performances, the Center is hosting Kids Day on July 30. A public ribbon-cutting ceremony and Open House is July 31. Both days will feature free performances on the Tarkington Theater stage.

The opening celebration culminates with the red-carpet curtain raising on August 6, featuring Michael Feinstein and Broadway star David Hyde Pierce. The Red-Carpet Curtain Raising concert on August 6 is the only paid performance in the lineup. Purchase tickets for the Red-Carpet Curtain Raising at the Palladium box office, One Center Green, by phone at 317-843-3800 or online at www.TheCenterForThePerformingArts.org

Michael Feinstein                                           Photo Credit: A J Mast

Preview and Grand Opening Events

Dance Kaleidoscope (July 15)

7 p.m. / Free / Reservations required

Celebrating 40 years in Indianapolis, Dance Kaleidoscope is Indiana’s premiere professional dance company. Under artistic director David Hochoy’s lead for 20 years, DK’s mission is to inspire, educate and entertain through the experience of outstanding contemporary dance. At the Tarkington, DK will perform “There’s No Business Like Show Business” and “Taking Care of Business.” They will perform at IRT July 21-24 and at the Sweet Pea Festival in Montana on August 7.

Anita Hall & Everett Greene (July 19)

7:30 p.m. / Free / Reservations required

One of the most sought-after performers on the Island scene, Anita recently left her Hawaii home of 22 years and returned to her birth place of Indianapolis. Anita has shared the stage with Natalie Cole, Herbie Hancock and Michael McDonald. Everett Greene has traveled around the world, performing with notables such as James Moody, Larry Ridley and the Smithsonian Jazz Orchestra. He also toured and sang with The Count Bassie Orchestra. Everett was inducted into the Indiana Jazz Hall of Fame in 2005.

Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre (July 21)

7 p.m. / Free / Reservations required

Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre is a professional contemporary dance ensemble and company dedicated to the exploration and presentation of thought-provoking issues. With the ability of dance to transcend the barriers that divide our world, they strive to enlighten, educate and entertain audiences of all ages. GHDT presents four repertoire concerts each season. It is a resident company at the Tarkington Theater and will begin its 13th season performing at the new venue in October.

Heartland Truly Moving Pictures film screening (July 26)

7 p.m. / Free / Reservations required

Heartland Truly Moving Pictures, a non-profit arts organization, seeks to promote positive change in people’s lives through the transformative power of film. Its flagship event, the Heartland Film Festival, launched in 1991 and runs each October in Indianapolis, screening independent films from around the world. Heartland is also dedicated to cultivating youth and providing innovative educational programs to enrich the minds and lives of aspiring filmmakers.

International Violin Competition of Indianapolis (July 28)

7 p.m. / Free / Reservations required

The mission of the International Violin Competition of Indianapolis is to recognize, reward and promote the world’s finest young classical violinists and encourage understanding, appreciation and support of the violin repertoire by a large and diverse audience. The IVCI utilizes its world prominence to bring international attention to Indianapolis, and maintains its efforts to be a visible and collaborative member of the arts communities in Indianapolis and Indiana.

Kids Day (July 30)

FREE / No reservations

1 to 6 p.m. - Family-friendly events and performances on the Tarkington Theater stage by Radio Disney, Iibada Dance Company, International Talent Academy, Central Indiana Dance Ensemble, Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre and CYT. 

Open House (July 31)

FREE / No reservations

1 p.m. – Ribbon cutting. Remarks by Steven B. Libman, Mayor Jim Brainard and architect Stephen Sturtz.

2 - 5 p.m. – Open House featuring performances by Duke Tumatoe (2 p.m.), Carmel Repertory Theatre (2:30 p.m.), Indy Irish Dancers (3 p.m.), Indiana University Summer Concert Band (4 p.m.), Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre (5 p.m.) and Actors Theatre of Indiana (5:30 p.m.)

Red Carpet Curtain Raising (August 6)

PAID / Tickets required

5:30 p.m. - The opening night will feature artistic director Michael Feinstein performing Frank Sinatra hits. Feinstein will be joined by Tony Award-winning Broadway and television star David Hyde Pierce. Additional entertainment includes dancers from American Ballet Theatre and Carmel native Julia Bonnett, winner of the 2009 Great American Songbook competition. Guests will be greeted with a cocktail reception with food stations throughout the evening. Plans include an after party entertainment lineup and dancing. Limited seating is available via advanced paid reservations. For details, call the box office at 317-843-3800 or purchase online at www.TheCenterForThePerformingArts.org.

The Center for the Performing Arts, which is currently under construction in Carmel City Center, will include the Palladium concert hall, the Tarkington proscenium theater and the 200-seat Studio Theater. The Palladium will also be home to Michael Feinstein’s Great American Songbook Collection, acting as a museum and education center by day and a concert venue by night.

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 Hula Presents Luau and Performance

Indy Hula Presents Inaugural Luau

and Polynesian Performance

WHEN

Sat., July 23, 2011, 6 – 9 p.m.

WHERE

Park Tudor School

Clowes Commons

7200 North College Avenue

Indianapolis, IN 46240

Cost

$30 per person; $15 per child ages 4 – 12

RSVP by July 18, 2011

Tickets

Send email to info@indyhula.org

Ticket(s) can be mailed to you or held at the door.

Indy Hula will be very proud to share its Polynesian spirit with you this evening. Proceeds from the event will help Indy Hula continue its mission to perpetuate the Polynesian culture primarily through education.Funds will be used to purchase costumes and implements for our students.
It will also be used to send our students to Polynesian cultural and language classes, dance seminars and workshops to create precious implements, leis, floral and feather head pieces, costumes, etc.
Come and enjoy an evening of enchantment.
For more information, visit IndyHula.org
Photo credit: IndyHula.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.

IntoSalsa Hosts Belly Dance Hafla

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.

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.