Events editor Nicole Rupersburg brings you the scoop on what to do and where to be, each and every week, in the D.

And don’t miss our comprehensive and always up-to-date arts calendar here.

COMING UP:

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Thursday, August 28th

Sik Sik Nation

With Thunders (from Indianapolis) and the Directions. Garage rock/synth pop. Good stuff. Pretty positive this one’s free, too. Even better.

Where: Lager House, Detroit
When: 8:00PM
Tix: Free
www.myspace.com/lagerhouse

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Friday, August 29th-Saturday, August 31st

Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix

The Raceway at Belle Isle Park will again bristle with excitement as world-class auto racing returns to the Motor City on Labor Day weekend 2008. The Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix will feature the American Le Mans Series, the IndyCar Series and, new for ‘08, the SCCA SPEED World Challenge GT Championship. All net proceeds from the Grand Prix are directed to a special fund for improvements and maintenance at Detroit’s jewel – Belle Isle Park.

And get this: live entertainment will be provided by the likes of Sugar Ray and Everclear. 10 years ago, this bill would have cost you $60.00+. Now, it’s free (with purchase of Grand Prix tickets). Bask in the irony.

Where: Belle Isle, Detroit
When: Gates open at 8:00AM all three days
Tix: $25.00-$700.00 (see website for all the deets)
www.detroitgp.com

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Friday, August 29th-Monday, September 1st

Arts, Beats, and Eats

Second to CityFest, this is metro Detroit’s largest annual outdoor festival of food, music, and art. There will be a juried art show, tons of great food, and even a “bloggin’ café”—bloggers get paid $1.00 in food/drink tickets per 10 minutes of blogging time. The music lineup features local favorites The Hard Lessons, Twistin’ Tarantulas, the Howling Diablos, Thornetta Davis, Broadzilla, The Muggs, Doop & the Inside Outlaws, Dutch Pink, Detroit Techno Militia, the Orbitsuns, Hotness, Jill Jack, and Paper Street Saints. Headlining national acts include Rusted Root, Blues Traveler, Puddle of Mudd, Loverboy, and…Chaka Khan??? Yep. Chaka Khan. Chaka Khan. Chaka Khan.

Where: The streets of downtown Pontiac
When: All day, all four days (ends at 7:00PM on Monday)
Tix: Free admission
www.artsbeatseats.com

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Friday, August 29th-Monday, September 1st

29th Annual Detroit International Jazz Festival

They put it best:

For more than a quarter century, Detroit Jazz Fest has entertained millions of fans with jazz legends ranging from Herbie Hancock to Yusef Lateef and Ron Carter. Today, it ROARS on six stages over four days, with blues, gospel, R&B, and one of the strongest jazz lineups on the planet. The festival also offers educational events, daily second-line parades, fire works, and rare opportunities to meet the artists. And it’s all FREE!

In 2008, Detroit Jazz Fest celebrates the rich musical traditions of Philadelphia and Detroit and the “Trane” that connects them. Billed as A Love Supreme: the Philly-Detroit Summit, the festival features Philadelphia native and renowned bassist Christian McBride as artist in residence. Other featured artists include Detroit natives Dianne Reeves, Kenny Garrett, and Geri Allen, along with Philly stalwarts Benny Golson, Jimmy Heath, Pat Martino, and others

Where: Hart Plaza, Detroit
When: All day all four days
Tix: Free admission
www.detroitjazzfest.com

Also check out the after-sessions at Bohemian National Home every night of the Festival!

Fri. Aug 29: Faruq Z Bey/Viki Duo,  
In one of the most unique collaborations of the year, Free Jazz elder Faruq Z. Bey will be joined by experimental/noise artist Viki! Faruq, after a boring visit to the electronic music festival, caught a Viki set at the Bohemian about a month ago and loved it! He immediately suggested a collaboration and now we’re making it happen. Viki and best buddy Mammal are both moving Labor Day weekend, so it will be Viki’s last Detroit show before leaving town. 
 

Sat. Aug 30 & Sun. Aug 31: Kenny Millions’ PunkJazzNoise plus Detroit allstars
Kenny Millions (Kevashan Maslak), last seen here with Han Bennink, introduces his one-man acoustic improviser/electronic noise collision dubbed punkjazznoise. We’ll also be pairing him up with various Detroit jazz/creative music favorites TBA.

9/1  Instant Composers Pool members in a late set; featuring Han Bennink, Wolter Wierbos, Toby Delius and friends. One of the greatest European improv groups of all times descend on The Bohemian, following their set at the downtown festival. Han Bennink said the Bohemian audience was his favorite in America and he’s bringing as many of his friends as possible to share the love.

www.myspace.com/bohemiannationalhome

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Friday, August 29th-Saturday, September 1st

Hamtramck Labor Day Festival

Throughout the years, visiting historic Hamtramck, Michigan has become a tradition for many during Labor Day weekend. The Hamtramck Labor Day Festival has welcomed more than 500,000 guests yearly as it continually provides the attractions many have come to anticipate during the holiday weekend, including live music, samplings of ethnic food, cultural dancers, carnival rides, and children’s activities. While keeping the traditions alive, the Hamtramck Labor Day Festival anticipates incorporating new features this year.

Friday
South Stage
6:30 p.m.: Powertrane
8:30 p.m.: Danny D

North Stage
7:30 p.m.: Bill Parker & the Motherscratchers
 
Saturday
South Stage
Noon: Blair
2 p.m.: Michael Quatro
4 p.m.: Haunted Hearts
6 p.m.: Budget Sinners
8 p.m.: American Mars

North Stage
1 p.m.: Earworms
3 p.m.: Bosnian Rock Group
5 p.m.: I, Crime
7 p.m.: Hellen
9 p.m.: Four Hour Friends
 

Sunday
South Stage
11 a.m.: Polka Mass with Big Daddy Lackowski and the LaDeDa’s followed by the
Polka With the Stars Contest
3:30 p.m.: Kielbasa Kings
5 p.m.: Pierogi Eating Contest
7 p.m. Polish Muslims

North Stage
Noon: Misty Blues
3 p.m.: Generations
6 p.m.: Swamp Siostrzanys
 

Monday – Parade Day!
South Stage
4:30 p.m.: Shadiamond Le Freedom
6:30 p.m.: Aquarius Void
8:30 p.m.: Speedball

North Stage
3:30 p.m.: Polka Floyd
5:30 p.m.: Millions of Brazilians
7:30 p.m.: Grayling

Where: Hamtrack, on Joseph Campau between Caniff and Carpenter
When: Friday 6:00PM-10:00PM, Saturday-Monday noon-10:00PM
Tix: Free admission
www.hamtramckfestival.org

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Friday, August 29th

Encore with Metromix

It might strike as odd that Metromix, an online events/social calendar thing that typically panders to overdressed post-frat types at clubs and “lounges” with cover charges and overpriced drinks, should put together this event featuring quite the stellar lineup of local bands…but don’t question it. Just be glad it’s free.

This Arts, Beats, and Eats opening night event is 21+ only, no cover with RSVP.
 
Complimentary drinks provided until 10 p.m. courtesy of the Detroit Sports Club, good for Miller draught or DeKuyper Burst Kamikaze, Washington Apple or Red Headed shots.
 
The Entertainment

Main stage acts include The Hard Lessons, DJ Mark-E, Millions of Brazilians, Prussia and Our Brother the Megazord; plus Zoos of Berlin, Handsome Sam, DJ Ice Cold Chrissy, Jeff Milo, Mikel O.D. and Tom Matich fill out the sounds throughout the Crofoot.

Rock ‘n’ roll fashion show, hosted by the one and only Haleblu and Lukas D., set to the live music of The Hard Lessons and DJ Marquee featuring fashions provided by Regenerations.

Interested in jump-starting your modeling career, adding to your portfolio or always wanted to show off your signature strut? Make sure you enter the Metromix Encore Model Search contest.

Fun photo booth action provided by Shutterbooth and, of course, Metromix photographers will be all over the scene.

$2 Metromix margaritas, $3 Purple Rain and $3 house bottled beers.

RSVP by Thursday, Aug. 28 for free admission to Encore, complimenatry drinks at the party, and the chance to win your choice of 12 shows to the Crofoot Ballroom in Pontiac over the next year (certain shows might be excluded).

Stay tuned to Metromix for more party information, articles featuring entertainment from the party and and Chrysler’s Arts, Beats & Eats, and more exciting Encore news as the big event approaches.

**By submitting your RSVP you agree to receive Metromix newsletters and other MMX information. If you wish to RSVP but prefer not to be added to the MMX mailing list, please email DetroitRSVP@metromix.com with the appropriate contact information.

Where: The Crofoot Ballroom, Pontiac
When: Doors 8:30PM, show starts at 8:45PM
Tix: Free with RSVP, otherwise $5.00 cover
www.detroit.metromix.com

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Friday, August 29th-Sunday, August 31st

Return of the Legends Vol. V

A three-day event showcasing contemporary legends in hip-hop and R&B.

Friday: NAS, Scarface, and Foxy Brown
Saturday: Busta Rhymes, Rakim, and Keith Murray
Sunday: Salt N Pepa, MC Hammer, and Whodini

Where: Chene Park Ampitheatre, Detroit
When: 8:00PM (each day)
Tix: $45.00-$65.00 pavilion, $32.00 lawn (each day)
www.cheneparkdetroit.com

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Saturday, August 30th

Halo 3 Tournament presented by Screen Cheaters

Screen Cheaters is the idea of entrepreneur, Collin Ozment,  where players can play their favorite X-Box games  by the hour on large video screens in a comfortable and austere environment. Experiencing Halo 3 on a large screen enhances the experience for both players and viewers, simulating a “you are there” effect.

The Halo series in one of the most popular  X-Box games in history, with Halo 3 being the best selling video game of 2007 and 7th of all time. Halo 3’s story centers on the interstellar war between 26th century humans, and a collection of alien races. Critically acclaimed and award-winning, Halo 3 is a product of Microsoft’s Game studios, and was even singled out as Time Magazine’s, “Game of the Year” in 2007.

This multi- round, double bracket tourney, will commence at 12:30 PM on Saturday, August 30th and consist of 24 players in total. The Halo 3 Tournament will consist of 12,  two- player  matches,  with the final 6 winners competing for a First prize of $100 , a second prize of $50 and a third prize of free screen time.

Where: 3329 Hilton Rd., Ferndale
When: Registration starts at noon
Tix: $25.00 to enter tournament based on first come, first served
Call  248 546-1671 or email screencheatersvideogames@gmail.com to pre-register.

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Saturday, August 30th

Art Fag Inc. with Champions of Breakfast

Champions of Breakfast: you either really really love them or really really hate them. Either way, you really need to see them. Plus catch Art Fag Inc. in their second show at their new home in Pontiac, post-CAID.

Where: Vernors Grill (inside the Crofoot Ballroom), Pontiac
When: Let’s say 9-ish
Tix: Let’s say $5-ish
www.thecrofoot.com

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Sunday, August 31st

89X Timewarp

Flash back to a time when synth pop ruled the airwaves. With Cristina from 89X and DJ Tom T (of Industry fame) spinning. Dollar drinks from 9:00PM-11:00PM.

Where: Luna, Royal Oak
When: Doors at 9:00PM, no cover before 10:00PM
Tix: N/A (no cover before 10:00PM)
www.lunaroyaloak.com

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Monday, September 1st

Deastro

With Hawny Troof and Breezee One. If you’ve had your ear to the Detroit music ground at all lately, you’ve heard a lot of buzz about Deastro. Find out what that’s all about, and take bets with your friends if he will play as a one-, three-, four-, or 8-piece.

Where: The Belmont, Hamtramck
When: Doors 6:00PM, no cover before 9:00PM, show starts at 10:00PM
Tix: $5.00 after 9:00PM for 21+; $7.00 18-20
www.thebelmontbar.com

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Monday, September 1st

Barbecued Movie at the CAID

LAST CALL FOR BARBECUED MOVIE AT THE CAID!

Join the Contemporary Art Institute of Detroit every Monday night from Memorial Day through Labor Day for hot eats, cold brew, and munchable movies. Barbecued Movie will feature off-the-wall, B-Movies, cult flicks, underground classics, obscure docs, local and international shorts and everything in-between.

The grill will be lit at 9pm every week. Short films will start at 9:30 and will feature hard to find gems from current international and local filmmakers that are pushing the boundaries of modern cinema. At 10pm the feature film will start. This summers line-up is as diverse as it comes. The common link between all the movies is that they are outrageous and hilarious, perfect for hanging out with friends and enjoying a beer and a burger (whether its vegetarian or of the animal variety.) Many surprises are also in store. Such as filmmakers there in person to present there work and live bands following the feature films!

BARBECUED MOVIE is FREE for CAID members, with a suggested donation for non-members to help keep the electricity on.

In case of bad weather, the show must go on, an will be shown inside of CAID.

This Monday: part spaghetti Western, part tale of enlightenment, and all cult, using maimed and dwarf performers—El Topo.

Where: The Contemporary Art Institute of Detroit, Detroit
When: Grill starts at 9:00PM, shorts at 9:30PM, movie at 10:0PM
Tix: Free for members, $3.00 suggested donation for non-members
www.thecaid.org

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Wednesday, September 3rd

Raw Food Lecture

Victoria Boutenko, the award-winning author of several best-selling books on raw and living foods and popular speaker from Ashland, Oregon will present her inspiring new lecture with new research at the Glass Academy.

Where: The Glass Academy, Dearborn
When: 6:00PM-9:00PM
Tix: $15.00 (includes free book, green smoothie and handout)
RSVP by calling 313-561-4527 or email michelle@furnacehotglass.com
www.rawfamily.com

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Friday, September 5th

The Dirtbombs

This is the last performance of Detroit’s most well-known unknown band with bassist Troy Gregory. Send him off and wish him well.

Where: The Magic Stick, Detroit
When: 8:00PM
Tix: $10.00 advance, $12.00 at the door
www.majesticdetroit.com

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Saturday, September 6th

Dally in the Alley (Rain Date Sept. 7th)

To be honest with you, I have NO idea what the lineup for Dally is this year. It hasn’t been published on the website yet and no one else seems to have a list yet either. BUT—the lineup for the official after party at Corktown Tavern looks good! James Pennington, Dennis Cox, Johnny Saco, DJ Seoul vs. T. Linder, Craig Gonzalez, Vacuum, DJ Roach, Vinnie, Geoff Johnson, and Justin Howse vs. Jefferson.

Where: Dally is in Midtown, between Third & Second and Hancock & Forest. The after party is at Corktown Tavern, Detroit
When: All day
Tix: All free (including after party)
www.dallyinthealley.com

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Saturday, September 6th

New Music Detroit Marathon

Members of the DSO will perform new contemporary music. Frank Pahl and Joel Peterson will perform a short set at noon and will be immediately followed by members of New Music Detroit performing new music by Frank.

Where: Museum of Contemporary Art, Detroit
When: noon-midnight
Tix: $12.00 until 8:00PM, $8.00 after 8:00PM
www.mocadetroit.org

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Saturday, September 6th

Hardwired

A Sonic Disturbance hosted by E.O.C. Teste, Guys on Drugs, Sincronation, Dreamdaze, and Cee Dub all performing live.

Where: The Motown Room (Eastern Market), Detroit
When: Doors 8:00PM, 21+
Tix: $5.00 suggested donation
www.myspace.com/sonicdisturbance

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Saturday, September 6th

The Silent Years CD Release Party

With Deastro (him again), Manna & Quail, These United States. I love the Silent Years and you should too. Go. Goddamn you. (Ugh, it’s a line from one of their songs, JEEZ!)

Where: The Magic Bag, Ferndale
When: Doors at 8:00PM
Tix: $10.00 (includes CD)
www.themagicbag.com

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Saturday, September 6th

The Official White Party

Well, there are MANY “official” white parties, but this one is presented by SalsaDetroit.com. Free salsa lessons by Derik Dollis and Mariangel starting at 9:30PM, and DJs Cisco and Carlos Seda Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, Reggaeton, Hip Hop, and Top 40. The first 100 people in wearing all white receive a free gift, and ladies get in free before 10:00PM.

Where: TV Lounge, Detroit
When: 9:00PM-2:00AM
Tix: N/A (ladies free before 10:00PM)
www.salsadetroit.com

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Saturday, September 6th

House Music for a Cause

House Music for a Cause raises money to purchase backpacks and school supplies for Detroit’s Bennett Elementary School, which recently suffered a fire making the need for such supplies more urgent. This is the closing party for the 3rd annual backpack drive, featuring “the Innovator” Derrick May along with DJs Norm Talley & Shake.

Where: Johanson Charles Gallery, Detroit
When: 10:00PM-4:00AM
Tix: $10.00+
www.dmaurbangroove.com

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Saturday, September 13th

People’s Arts Festival

More info to come on this second year of the popular and well-received all-day arts event at the RIC (Satori Circus is confirmed—‘nuff said).

Where: Russell Industrial Center, Detroit
When: 10:00AM-midnight
Tix: Free admission
www.rrcadetroit.org

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Friday, September 19th

Detroit Uncorked

The fifth annual Detroit Uncorked is a benefit for the children’s center. By supporting Detroit Uncorked, you join other caring members of our community to help change the lives of children served by The Children’s Center. The programs and services embrace children and families dealing with such challenging issues as abuse, neglect, mental illness and impairment. The agency serves 5,000 children yearly and, with your support, it will reach even more.

There will be a premium wine tasting featuring hundreds of selections, light hors d’oeuvres, live entertainment, and a silent auction.

Where: Ford Field, Detroit
When: 6:30PM-9:00PM
Tix: $80.00
http://detroituncorked.thechildrenscenter.com

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ONGOING:

Thursday, June 19th- Saturday, September 27th

Panhandle Slim and the Oklahoma Kid

The Purple Rose Theatre Company is pleased to announce a four-week
performance extension of Jeff Daniels’ new comedy Panhandle Slim & The
Oklahoma Kid. Originally scheduled to close at the end of August,
Panhandle Slim will now run until September 27, 2008. Performances for the
remainder of the engagement will be Wednesdays through Saturdays at 8:00
pm with Saturday matinees at 3:00 pm and Sunday matinees at 2:00 pm with a
variety of added weekly performances. All performances are at the Purple
Rose Theatre, 137 Park Street, Chelsea, MI.

The additional performances are being added to accommodate record ticket
sales. “Positive word-of-mouth created an overwhelming demand for
tickets,” says managing director Alan Ribant. “We hope that adding another
month of performances will allow thousands of additional patrons the
opportunity to enjoy Panhandle Slim & The Oklahoma Kid this summer.”

Daniels’ twelfth new play, Panhandle Slim & The Oklahoma Kid is Daniels’
first Western. This winsome comedy tells the fateful tale of a prairie
showdown between a vagrant outlaw and a singing cowboy. Thrown together by
unfortunate circumstances, Panhandle Slim and The Oklahoma Kid argue the
virtues of mayhem, music and the meaning of life. This World Premiere
features original songs, as well as scoundrels, six-guns and a horse named
Buttermilk.

The World Premiere of Panhandle Slim & The Oklahoma Kid is directed by
PRTC artistic director Guy Sanville. The cast of this new comedy includes
former PRTC apprentice Jessica Garrett (Sea of Fools), PRTC resident
artist Phil Powers (Vino Veritas, Honus & Me), and PRTC associate artists
John Seibert (Sea of Fools, The Mystery of Irma Vep) and Tom Whalen (Honus
& Me, The Glass Menagerie). (Editors’ Note: Cast interviews and
biographies are available for hometown stories by calling 734.433.PRTC.)

This production of Panhandle Slim & The Oklahoma Kid includes set design
by Dennis G. Crawley, lighting design by Reid G. Johnson, costume design
by Christianne Myers, prop design by Danna Segrest and sound design by
Quintessa Gallinat. Michelle DiDomenico stage manages with Stephanie Buck
as assistant stage manager.

This PRTC production is generously underwritten by Target, Aisin World
Corp. of America, ADR North America and Vesco Oil Corporation.

Tickets for the extension go on sale on Monday, August 4; annual PRTC
donors of $250 or more may purchase tickets beginning on Monday, July 28.
Reservations can be made by calling the PRTC Box Office at (734) 433-ROSE
(7673); Box Office hours are Monday through Friday 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.

####

Extension Performance Schedule

Wednesday, September 3    3:00 pm          $25.00       added performance
Wednesday, September 3    8:00 pm          $25.00
Thursday, September 4     8:00 pm          $25.00
Friday, September 5       8:00 pm          $38.00
Saturday, September 6     3:00 pm          $33.00
Saturday, September 6     8:00 pm          $38.00
Sunday, September 7       2:00 pm          $33.00

Tuesday, September 9      3:00 pm          $12.50       added performance
Tuesday, September 9      8:00 pm          $12.50       added performance
Wednesday, September 10                                  no performances
Thursday, September 11    8:00 pm          $25.00
Friday, September 12      8:00 pm          $38.00
Saturday, September 13    3:00 pm          $33.00
Saturday, September 13    8:00 pm          $38.00
Sunday, September 14      2:00 pm          $33.00

Tuesday, September 16     8:00 pm          $12.50       added performance
Wednesday, September 17   8:00 pm         $25.00
Thursday, September 18    8:00 pm          $25.00
Friday, September 19      8:00 pm          $38.00
Saturday, September 20    3:00 pm          $33.00
Saturday, September 20    8:00 pm          $38.00
Sunday, September 21      2:00 pm          $33.00

Tuesday, September 23     8:00 pm          $12.50       added performance
Wednesday, September 24   3:00 pm       $25.00       added performance
Wednesday, September 24   8:00 pm      $25.00
Thursday, September 25    8:00 pm         $25.00
Friday, September 26      8:00 pm          $38.00
Saturday, September 27    3:00 pm        $33.00
Saturday, September 27    8:00 pm         $38.00           Closing Night

Where: Purple Rose Theatre, Chelsea
When: See above for schedule
Tix: Also see above
www.purplerosetheatre.org

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Friday, August 1st- Saturday, August 23rd:

In the Blood

Planet Ant Theatre proudly presents…

IN THE BLOOD, the Pulitzer Prize-nominated drama, by Suzan-Lori Parks, directed by Detroit theatre maven Lavinia Hart, Head of Wayne State University’s Acting MFA program. IN THE BLOOD is the story of Hester LaNegrita, a homeless woman who lives under a city bridge with her five children from five different fathers.  Illiterate and struggling with the survival of her family, Hester is a devoted mother.  Her children return her love without complaint about their circumstances.  Like her namesake in THE SCARLET LETTER, Hester daily confronts people from the outside world who view her plight as unredeemable.

Playwright Suzan-Lori Parks underscores the polarity between Hester’s family and the outsiders by using a double-casting device.  Each actor who represents one of her children also plays one of the adults who intrude on their world.
Nominated for a Pulitzer Prize in 2000, the play is an archetypal portrayal of the will to love in a world of self-serving individualism.

Director, Lavinia Hart, Assistant Professor of Theatre and Head of the Acting MFA at Wayne State University,  joined the WSU theatre department after teaching, acting and directing for three years in Minnesota.  Ms. Hart was the Artistic Director of the Attic Theatre in Detroit for 19 years where she acted, directed and produced more than 100 plays.  Her most recent WSU directing credits include The Lusty and Comical History of Tom Jones (Best Local Professional Comedy nominee for the 2008 Wilde Awards), Translations and Antony and Cleopatra for the Hilberry Theatre.  She was co-director with Patricia Ansuini for the Hilberry’s production of The Kentucky Cycle which won the Oakland Press Award for Best Direction.  Recent Bonstelle Theatre credits include A Christmas Carol and Ten November.  Lavinia’s professional credits include direction of Murder on the Nile at The Meadowbrook Theatre and playing the title role in Kim Carney’s world premiere comedy Maggie Rose at the Performance Network. In 2007 she earned a teaching certificate of completion in the foundation courses of the Michael Chekhov Technique from the international Michael Chekhov Association and also remains an active instructor of the techniques of Jacques Lecoq.  This summer she was honored to be a member of the faculty of the Actors’ Movement Studio in New York City. Hart is a winner of the Detroit Free Press Lee Hills Award and has been named Michiganian of the Year by the Detroit News Magazine.

Where: Planet Ant Theatre, Hamtramck
When: Fridays and Saturdays 8:00PM; Sunday August 17th 2:00PM (free coffee and donuts)
Tix: $15.00; $10.00 students and seniors (Fridays or Sunday only); $5.00 Hamtramck residents (Fridays or Sunday only)
www.planetant.com

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Thursday, August 7th-Sunday, September 7th

The Day Everything Went Wrong

A new play by Malcolm Tulip. “Cirque du Soleil meets the 3 Stooges” w/original
music by Frank Pahl.

The play begins w/a disaster of biblical proportions befalling a family of three who attempt to get on w/their lives. Vince Mountain has outdone himself w/an incredible set design…and Laurel Hufano and Brendan McMahon. Join Malcolm for
some serious clowning.

Thursday, August 21 at Performance Network
Little Bang Theory will perform following the show for a mere $5
estimated start time 9:50p.m.

Where: Performance Network, Ann Arbor
When: Thursdays and Fridays 8:00PM
Tix: N/A
Call 734-663-0681
www.performancenetwork.org

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Events editor Nicole Rupersburg brings you the scoop on what to do and where to be, each and every week, in the D.

And don’t miss our comprehensive and always up-to-date arts calendar here.

COMING UP:

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Thursday, August 7th-Sunday, September 7th

The Day Everything Went Wrong

A new play by Malcolm Tulip. “Cirque du Soleil meets the 3 Stooges” w/original
music by Frank Pahl.

The play begins w/a disaster of biblical proportions befalling a family of three who attempt to get on w/their lives. Vince Mountain has outdone himself w/an incredible set design…and Laurel Hufano and Brendan McMahon. Join Malcolm for
some serious clowning.

Thursday, August 21 at Performance Network
Little Bang Theory will perform following the show for a mere $5
estimated start time 9:50p.m.

Where: Performance Network, Ann Arbor
When: Thursdays and Fridays 8:00PM
Tix: N/A
Call 734-663-0681
www.performancenetwork.org

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Friday, August 8th-Saturday, August 23rd

In It For the Long Haul

That guy who serves you beer at Park Bar (not Jerry, the other one)? He wrote a play. This is it.

Planet Ant Late Night Series presents “In It For the Long Haul” by Mike Targus, directed by Chris Korte.Opening this Friday, August 8, 2008.
 
Strangers meet in a dusty truck stop…stories shared….pie eaten…lives changed….

Where: Planet Ant Theatre, Hamtramck
When: Fridays and Saturdays 11:00PM
Tix: $5.00
www.planetant.com

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Friday, August 15th:

Rockin’ on the Riverfront present Blue Oyster Cult

The free classic rock concert series on the Riverwalk continues with the band that recorded on of the best non-pussy songs ever (“Don’t Fear the Reaper”—anyone ever see The Stoned Age? Come on now.). Also with Spitting Nickels.

Where: Detroit Riverwalk, Detroit
When: 8:00PM
Tix: Free admission
www.gmrencen.com

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Friday, August 15th

Oluyemi Abdu Thomas and Friends

This Detroit native makes a rare area appearance at Bohemian National Home. Since leaving our fair city, Thomas has enjoyed a significant, but under-documented career. He has appeared on bass clarinet, c-melody and soprano saxophone with many giants of creative music: Cecil Taylor, Sunny Murray, Alan Silva, Roscoe Mitchell and William Parker, to name a few. For this performance, he’s putting together a group of local collaborators to be announced.

Where: Bohemian National Home, Detroit
When: Doors 8:00PM
Tix: $10.00-$20.00
www.myspace.com/bohemiannationalhome

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Thursday, August 21st-Saturday, August 23rd

Summer Smash

The art institute that Detroit police attempted to shut down just a few months ago remains open to serve the community, according to the nonprofit mission driven organization.  What was reported as excessive force by witnesses at an early morning police raid with shot guns, commando uniforms, masks and language unbecoming of a peace officer, has not hindered the organization’s commitment to the arts in Detroit. 

The Contemporary Art Institute of Detroit (CAID) recently announced the return (after a one year hiatus) of Summer Smash – a popular local music festival that started in 1999.  The three day event will take place at the CAID August 21st through 23rd and will feature some of the most talked about local music artists in the city including The Dead Bodies, Deastro, The Four Hour Friends and The Friendly Foes among others.  “This is an important event with everyone volunteering their time and talents to the cause,” says CAID board member, Aaron Timlin.  100% of the festival profits will go directly to support creative programming at CAID.  The all volunteer nonprofit expects the festival to go off without a hitch.  “We have dotted our I’s and crossed all our T’s”, says festival director Laura Witkowski.  “CAID has filed a petition with City Council.  Professional security and legal support will be on hand during the festival to ensure our guests and members’ civil rights and personal dignity is not violated by anyone.”    

Since its inception almost 10 years ago, Summer Smash has doubled as a benefit for a worthy cause, and this year’s event continues that tradition in a unique way.  “Instead of using this event as a way to raise funds for the general operating budget or someone’s salary, all the profits will go to a special grant fund for Detroit music and performance artists,” says Timlin who volunteers for CAID, now serving on the board of directors.  “The connection between CAID and the music scene in Detroit is strong, and we felt this was a great way to further build that connection."  The organization will invite musicians and performers to apply for grant funds that could cover costs for things such as touring, recording, equipment and anything else that may further their creative endeavors.

I like press releases. Hey, maybe Art Fag Inc. should go back? Just a thought.

Where: The Contemporary Art Institute of Detroit, Detroit
When: N/A
Tix: $16.00 for all 3 days; $5.00 Thurs; $8.00 Fri & Sat.
www.thecaid.org

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Wednesday, August 27th

Detroit Synergy Supper Club at Cuisine

Cuisine is a Supper Club oldie but goodie, and Detroit Synergy is pleased to bring this popular event back to an old favorite that consistently shines over all others. Menu information coming soon.

Where: Cuisine, New Center, Detroit
When: 6:30PM-9:00PM
Tix: $30.00 prix fixe menu (includes tax and gratuity); optional wine package additional $10.00
www.detroitsynergy.org

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ONGOING:

Thursday, June 19th- Saturday, September 27th

Panhandle Slim and the Oklahoma Kid

The Purple Rose Theatre Company is pleased to announce a four-week
performance extension of Jeff Daniels’ new comedy Panhandle Slim & The
Oklahoma Kid. Originally scheduled to close at the end of August,
Panhandle Slim will now run until September 27, 2008. Performances for the
remainder of the engagement will be Wednesdays through Saturdays at 8:00
pm with Saturday matinees at 3:00 pm and Sunday matinees at 2:00 pm with a
variety of added weekly performances. All performances are at the Purple
Rose Theatre, 137 Park Street, Chelsea, MI.

The additional performances are being added to accommodate record ticket
sales. “Positive word-of-mouth created an overwhelming demand for
tickets,” says managing director Alan Ribant. “We hope that adding another
month of performances will allow thousands of additional patrons the
opportunity to enjoy Panhandle Slim & The Oklahoma Kid this summer.”

Daniels’ twelfth new play, Panhandle Slim & The Oklahoma Kid is Daniels’
first Western. This winsome comedy tells the fateful tale of a prairie
showdown between a vagrant outlaw and a singing cowboy. Thrown together by
unfortunate circumstances, Panhandle Slim and The Oklahoma Kid argue the
virtues of mayhem, music and the meaning of life. This World Premiere
features original songs, as well as scoundrels, six-guns and a horse named
Buttermilk.

The World Premiere of Panhandle Slim & The Oklahoma Kid is directed by
PRTC artistic director Guy Sanville. The cast of this new comedy includes
former PRTC apprentice Jessica Garrett (Sea of Fools), PRTC resident
artist Phil Powers (Vino Veritas, Honus & Me), and PRTC associate artists
John Seibert (Sea of Fools, The Mystery of Irma Vep) and Tom Whalen (Honus
& Me, The Glass Menagerie). (Editors’ Note: Cast interviews and
biographies are available for hometown stories by calling 734.433.PRTC.)

This production of Panhandle Slim & The Oklahoma Kid includes set design
by Dennis G. Crawley, lighting design by Reid G. Johnson, costume design
by Christianne Myers, prop design by Danna Segrest and sound design by
Quintessa Gallinat. Michelle DiDomenico stage manages with Stephanie Buck
as assistant stage manager.

This PRTC production is generously underwritten by Target, Aisin World
Corp. of America, ADR North America and Vesco Oil Corporation.

Tickets for the extension go on sale on Monday, August 4; annual PRTC
donors of $250 or more may purchase tickets beginning on Monday, July 28.
Reservations can be made by calling the PRTC Box Office at (734) 433-ROSE
(7673); Box Office hours are Monday through Friday 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.

####

Extension Performance Schedule

Wednesday, September 3    3:00 pm          $25.00       added performance
Wednesday, September 3    8:00 pm          $25.00
Thursday, September 4     8:00 pm          $25.00
Friday, September 5       8:00 pm          $38.00
Saturday, September 6     3:00 pm          $33.00
Saturday, September 6     8:00 pm          $38.00
Sunday, September 7       2:00 pm          $33.00

Tuesday, September 9      3:00 pm          $12.50       added performance
Tuesday, September 9      8:00 pm          $12.50       added performance
Wednesday, September 10                                 no performances
Thursday, September 11    8:00 pm          $25.00
Friday, September 12      8:00 pm          $38.00
Saturday, September 13    3:00 pm          $33.00
Saturday, September 13    8:00 pm          $38.00
Sunday, September 14      2:00 pm          $33.00

Tuesday, September 16     8:00 pm          $12.50       added performance
Wednesday, September 17   8:00 pm          $25.00
Thursday, September 18    8:00 pm          $25.00
Friday, September 19      8:00 pm          $38.00
Saturday, September 20    3:00 pm          $33.00
Saturday, September 20    8:00 pm          $38.00
Sunday, September 21      2:00 pm          $33.00

Tuesday, September 23     8:00 pm        $12.50       added performance
Wednesday, September 24   3:00 pm        $25.00       added performance
Wednesday, September 24   8:00 pm      $25.00
Thursday, September 25    8:00 pm        $25.00
Friday, September 26      8:00 pm          $38.00
Saturday, September 27    3:00 pm        $33.00
Saturday, September 27    8:00 pm         $38.00       Closing Night

Where: Purple Rose Theatre, Chelsea
When: See above for schedule
Tix: Also see above
www.purplerosetheatre.org

—————————————————
Friday, August 1st-Saturday, August 16th

The Cannibals

The Abreact proudly presents Hungarian playwright George Tabori’s masterpiece “The Cannibals”, running August 1st through the 16th at The Zeitgeist Gallery and Performance Venue, 2661 Michigan Ave., Detroit, MI.

George Tabori, who died in 2007 at the age of 93, is a Hungarian-born playwright and director, and is regarded as a very significant figure in 20th century theater, especially as a translator of Bertolt Brecht.  This dark, disturbing, and yet warmly human play, was the first play after World War Two to occur wholly in Auschwitz, where Tabori’s father died in 1944.

The story of two Auschwitz survivors who reunite 25 years later, they are joined by the children of those who perished to re-enact the dinner party that determined all of their fates. This epic story of history and memory, described by Tabori as a “horror farce”, uses a unique mix of psycho-drama, revue, and tragi-comedy to examine the terrible choices these men were forced to make, and brings the death camp’s slogan, “One man’s death is another man’s bread”, horribly and viscerally to the stage.

The play is directed by the winner of Boxfest 2007, Alison Christy, and features a powerful lineup of familiar faces, along with some new ones, including- Dax Anderson, Keith Kalinowski, Katie Galazka, Linda Rabin Hammel, Josh Campos, Lisa Melinn, David Legato, Sandy Menzel, Sean Pavarenti, Rob Rose, Frannie Shepard-Bates, Carolin Hayes, and Lauren Schafer.

Where: The Zeitgeist Gallery, Detroit
When: Fridays & Saturdays 8:00PM, Sunday August 3rd 4:00PM
Tix: $10.00
www.theabreact.com
www.zeitgeistdetroit.org

—————————————————
Friday, August 1st- Saturday, August 23rd

In the Blood

Planet Ant Theatre proudly presents…
IN THE BLOOD, the Pulitzer Prize-nominated drama, by Suzan-Lori Parks, directed by Detroit theatre maven Lavinia Hart, Head of Wayne State University’s Acting MFA program. IN THE BLOOD is the story of Hester LaNegrita, a homeless woman who lives under a city bridge with her five children from five different fathers.  Illiterate and struggling with the survival of her family, Hester is a devoted mother.  Her children return her love without complaint about their circumstances.  Like her namesake in THE SCARLET LETTER, Hester daily confronts people from the outside world who view her plight as unredeemable.

Playwright Suzan-Lori Parks underscores the polarity between Hester’s family and the outsiders by using a double-casting device.  Each actor who represents one of her children also plays one of the adults who intrude on their world.
Nominated for a Pulitzer Prize in 2000, the play is an archetypal portrayal of the will to love in a world of self-serving individualism.

Director, Lavinia Hart, Assistant Professor of Theatre and Head of the Acting MFA at Wayne State University,  joined the WSU theatre department after teaching, acting and directing for three years in Minnesota.  Ms. Hart was the Artistic Director of the Attic Theatre in Detroit for 19 years where she acted, directed and produced more than 100 plays.  Her most recent WSU directing credits include The Lusty and Comical History of Tom Jones (Best Local Professional Comedy nominee for the 2008 Wilde Awards), Translations and Antony and Cleopatra for the Hilberry Theatre.  She was co-director with Patricia Ansuini for the Hilberry’s production of The Kentucky Cycle which won the Oakland Press Award for Best Direction.  Recent Bonstelle Theatre credits include A Christmas Carol and Ten November.  Lavinia’s professional credits include direction of Murder on the Nile at The Meadowbrook Theatre and playing the title role in Kim Carney’s world premiere comedy Maggie Rose at the Performance Network. In 2007 she earned a teaching certificate of completion in the foundation courses of the Michael Chekhov Technique from the international Michael Chekhov Association and also remains an active instructor of the techniques of Jacques Lecoq.  This summer she was honored to be a member of the faculty of the Actors’ Movement Studio in New York City. Hart is a winner of the Detroit Free Press Lee Hills Award and has been named Michiganian of the Year by the Detroit News Magazine.

Where: Planet Ant Theatre, Hamtramck
When: Fridays and Saturdays 8:00PM; Sunday August 17th 2:00PM (free coffee and donuts)
Tix: $15.00; $10.00 students and seniors (Fridays or Sunday only); $5.00 Hamtramck residents (Fridays or Sunday only)
www.planetant.com

———————————————-

Events editor Nicole Rupersburg brings you the scoop on what to do and where to be, each and every week, in the D.

And don’t miss our comprehensive and always up-to-date arts calendar here.

COMING UP:

—————————————————
Friday, August 1st-Sunday, August 3rd

Ribs and Soul Festival

Funk, R&B, and soul music will fill your ears as you fill your mouths with some of the best BBQ you’ll ever eat. Check out the Rib Cook-Off and determine the best sauce, and take a look at the classic car display while you’re there.

Where: Hart Plaza, Detroit
When: All day
Tix: Free admission
www.ribsnsoul.net

—————————————————
Friday, August 1st-Saturday, August 16th

The Cannibals

The Abreact proudly presents Hungarian playwright George Tabori’s masterpiece “The Cannibals”, running August 1st through the 16th at The Zeitgeist Gallery and Performance Venue, 2661 Michigan Ave., Detroit, MI.

George Tabori, who died in 2007 at the age of 93, is a Hungarian-born playwright and director, and is regarded as a very significant figure in 20th century theater, especially as a translator of Bertolt Brecht.  This dark, disturbing, and yet warmly human play, was the first play after World War Two to occur wholly in Auschwitz, where Tabori’s father died in 1944.

The story of two Auschwitz survivors who reunite 25 years later, they are joined by the children of those who perished to re-enact the dinner party that determined all of their fates. This epic story of history and memory, described by Tabori as a “horror farce”, uses a unique mix of psycho-drama, revue, and tragi-comedy to examine the terrible choices these men were forced to make, and brings the death camp’s slogan, “One man’s death is another man’s bread”, horribly and viscerally to the stage.

The play is directed by the winner of Boxfest 2007, Alison Christy, and features a powerful lineup of familiar faces, along with some new ones, including- Dax Anderson, Keith Kalinowski, Katie Galazka, Linda Rabin Hammel, Josh Campos, Lisa Melinn, David Legato, Sandy Menzel, Sean Pavarenti, Rob Rose, Frannie Shepard-Bates, Carolin Hayes, and Lauren Schafer.

Where: The Zeitgeist Gallery, Detroit
When: Fridays & Saturdays 8:00PM, Sunday August 3rd 4:00PM
Tix: $10.00
www.theabreact.com
www.zeitgeistdetroit.org

—————————————————
Friday, August 1st- Saturday, August 23rd

In the Blood

Planet Ant Theatre proudly presents…
IN THE BLOOD, the Pulitzer Prize-nominated drama, by Suzan-Lori Parks, directed by Detroit theatre maven Lavinia Hart, Head of Wayne State University’s Acting MFA program. IN THE BLOOD is the story of Hester LaNegrita, a homeless woman who lives under a city bridge with her five children from five different fathers.  Illiterate and struggling with the survival of her family, Hester is a devoted mother.  Her children return her love without complaint about their circumstances.  Like her namesake in THE SCARLET LETTER, Hester daily confronts people from the outside world who view her plight as unredeemable.

Playwright Suzan-Lori Parks underscores the polarity between Hester’s family and the outsiders by using a double-casting device.  Each actor who represents one of her children also plays one of the adults who intrude on their world.
Nominated for a Pulitzer Prize in 2000, the play is an archetypal portrayal of the will to love in a world of self-serving individualism.

Director, Lavinia Hart, Assistant Professor of Theatre and Head of the Acting MFA at Wayne State University,  joined the WSU theatre department after teaching, acting and directing for three years in Minnesota.  Ms. Hart was the Artistic Director of the Attic Theatre in Detroit for 19 years where she acted, directed and produced more than 100 plays.  Her most recent WSU directing credits include The Lusty and Comical History of Tom Jones (Best Local Professional Comedy nominee for the 2008 Wilde Awards), Translations and Antony and Cleopatra for the Hilberry Theatre.  She was co-director with Patricia Ansuini for the Hilberry’s production of The Kentucky Cycle which won the Oakland Press Award for Best Direction.  Recent Bonstelle Theatre credits include A Christmas Carol and Ten November.  Lavinia’s professional credits include direction of Murder on the Nile at The Meadowbrook Theatre and playing the title role in Kim Carney’s world premiere comedy Maggie Rose at the Performance Network. In 2007 she earned a teaching certificate of completion in the foundation courses of the Michael Chekhov Technique from the international Michael Chekhov Association and also remains an active instructor of the techniques of Jacques Lecoq.  This summer she was honored to be a member of the faculty of the Actors’ Movement Studio in New York City. Hart is a winner of the Detroit Free Press Lee Hills Award and has been named Michiganian of the Year by the Detroit News Magazine.

Where: Planet Ant Theatre, Hamtramck
When: Fridays and Saturdays 8:00PM; Sunday August 17th 2:00PM (free coffee and donuts)
Tix: $15.00; $10.00 students and seniors (Fridays or Sunday only); $5.00 Hamtramck residents (Fridays or Sunday only)
www.planetant.com

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Wednesday, August 6th

Frank Pahl and Joel Peterson at MoCAD

Frank Pahl and Joel Peterson will be performing a short set before New Music Detroit (members of Detroit Symphony Orchestra) perform new music by Frank Pahl as part of their marathon event, noon to midnight.

Where: Museum of Contemporary Art, Detroit
When: noon (event runs noon-midnight)
Tix: N/A
www.mocadetroit.org

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Wednesday, August 6th

The Vision of Words at the Jazz Café Hosted by M. L. Lieber

Open Mic 7:00pm to 8:00pm followed by Avant Garde Poet & Musician Ann Holdeith & Dean Western, Ron English with Jef Reynolds, Poet Caroline Maun & Frankie the K and Detroit poet Nandi Comer at Detroit’s Jazz Café at The Music Hall for the Performing Arts.

Where: Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts, Detroit
When: 7:00PM
Tix: Free admission

—————————————————-
Wednesday, August 6th

colorlist

This instrumental group from Chicago bears many of the hallmarks of its hometown’s post-rock sound. More contemplative than rocking, more textural than melodic, colorlist utilize what sounds like a Fender Rhodes through effects and analog synthesizers, against contrasting elements like a string section, echoing electric guitar and live drums. They’ve also had contributions by Bohemian friend Jason Stein on bass clarinet.

Where: Bohemian National Home, Detroit
When: 8:00PM
Tix: $5.00
www.myspace.com/bohemiannationalhome

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Friday, August 8th

Rockin’ on the Riverfront with Kansas

Carry on, Wayward Son.

Where: Detroit Riverwalk, Detroit
When: 8:00PM
Tix: Free admission
www.gmrencen.com

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Saturday, August 9th

Bill Bynum & Co.

With songs both traditional and original, and a sound that’s at once as comfortable as old jeans and as fresh as a new blade of grass, Bill Bynum & Co. is a band that’s easy to love and hard to quit.

The band’s core of guitar, Dobro, fiddle, bass and harmony vocals can lean into bluegrass, veer toward country, or take listeners on a unique journey through Bill’s original songs. A debut recording, Daddy’s Word, was released in January 2008.

Bill Bynum . . .
Although a Detroit native, Bill’s musical roots are in the South. His parents migrated from Black Oak, Arkansas to work in Detroit’s steel industry in the 1940s, bringing—like many others—their love for bluegrass and country music. Bill grew up listening to artists like Johnny Cash and Buck Owens on Detroit’s country radio station, “The Big D.”

Detroit rock drove Bill’s early musical career. But in 1999, Bill turned on the radio and heard “Yours Forever Blue” by Steve Earle and the Del McCoury Band. From that moment on he found himself with a “nonstop desire to hear and play those songs.”

Soon he was writing them too. Bill is a first-prize winner in the Metro Detroit Songwriting Showcase with his song “Lovin’ You.” He has collaborated with bluegrass legend Pete Goble, an International Bluegrass Music Association Lifetime Achievement Award winner. Bill lives for the joy of entertaining his audience. A true showman!

. . .& Co.
Chuck Anderson picked up the double bass in 2001 at the urging of a friend who thought there were too many guitarists at bluegrass jams. Since then, Chuck has played everything from jazz standards to old-time fiddle tune music. The Minnesota native was a sound man at The Ark in Ann Arbor, MI, and has a background in physics. When the band needs someone to troubleshoot the PA or divvy up the tab, they turn to him.

Dave Keeney plays Dobro and guitar with exceptional skill and taste. Tradition means a lot to Dave, who lives at an apple orchard in Tipton, Michigan that’s been in his family since 1843. A former long-haul trucker, Dave’s the real deal. This guy can do it all and sing about it too!

Mary Seelhorst is a powerful and intuitive fiddler from the hills of Athens, Ohio. Not only can Mary play with the best, but she’s also a fine vocalist, performing in Ohio, North Carolina and Michigan-based bands for thirty years. She’s also a writer and photographer, shooting all the photos for the band’s new CD. She wrote for Popular Mechanics for seven years, so don’t count her out on Jeopardy!

Where: Trenton Village Theatre, Trenton
When: 8:00PM
Tix: N/A
For more information call 734-552-5377

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Saturday, August 9th

Jimbo Easter Presents “Are you Weird?: Druid Perfume, Gardens, Love Blood and the Colagulators, CC Rose and Fashion”

Leave it to Odd Clouds/Piranhas mad man Jimbo Easter to unite Detroit’s musical shut-ins in a one night gala performance. He’s lured them out of the basement- if not into the daylight. It’ll be a night of discovery for just about everyone.

Where: Bohemian National Home, Detroit
When: Doors at 9:00PM
Tix: $5.00
www.myspace.com/bohemiannationalhome

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Monday, August 11th

Barbecued Movie at the CAID

Beer, BBQ, camp classics and mosquitoes. Nothing says summer quite like this. This week, check out Destroy All Monsters!, the ninth film in the Godzilla series.

Where: Contemporary Art Institute of Detroit, Detroit
When: Grill starts at 9:00PM, shorts at 9:30PM, movie at 10:00PM
Tix: Free for members, suggested donation for non-members $3.00
www.myspace.com/barbecuedmovie

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Wednesday, August 13th

Eric Glick Rieman/Dan Godston Duo with Young Equestrians

Eric Glick Rieman is a composer who performs on modified/prepared Fender Rhodes and prepared piano. He studied with the heavy-weights at Mills College like Fred Frith, Pauline Oliveros, Alvin Curran and Douglas Ewart, and has gone on to record with Frith and violinist Carla Kihlstedt. He also has a release on percussionist Chris Cutler’s ReR label. He’ll be joined by Dan Godston, a Chicago trumpeter who has worked with extensively in creative music with David Boykin, Nichole Mitchell, Mars Williams, Toms Abbs and Steve Cohn.

Brooklyn’s Young Equestrians uses electronics, electric guitar and acoustic instruments like cello, doublebass and accordian to vaciliate between experimental rock and ambient, droning soundscapes. The moods range from hypnotic to ecstatic with the sort of evolving parts that Brian Eno would be proud of.

Where: Bohemian National Home, Detroit
When: Doors 8:00PM
Tix: $5.00
www.myspace.com/bohemiannationalhome

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Thursday, August 14th

DJ Spooky’s Rebirth of a Nation

Conceptual artist Paul D. Miller fuses film and music into one explosive mix that will cause viewers to question racial stereotypes and the power of media to promote them during a performance at the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) on Thursday, Aug. 14.  Miller, better known as DJ Spooky that Subliminal Kid, will put a 21st century spin on D.W. Griffith’s infamous 1915 silent film classic The Birth of a Nation when he presents his multimedia remix Rebirth of a Nation at 8 p.m. in the museum’s Auditorium.

Miller will draw on his celebrated skills as a writer, musician, club deejay, and social critic to create a sensory-rich performance that examines the uses of propaganda in the film. Griffith’s landmark film was hailed for its use of cinematic editing techniques and reviled for the anti-black sentiments it spewed and its distorted account of the Reconstruction-era South. In Griffith’s version of the post-Civil War South, white southerners are victimized by carpetbagger opportunists, corrupt politicians, and lustful, newly freed blacks. The film’s main character organizes a secret vigilante group—the Ku Klux Klan—to reclaim the white privilege surrendered with the loss of the Civil War.

But in combining the roles of “deejay and director,” Miller uses Rebirth of a Nation to examine the paradox of Griffith’s backward political stance versus the groundbreaking technical expertise he brought to the film. During his high-energy performance, Miller will cut, paste, and weave video sequences in real time and project those images onto three screens to create a new experience for novice viewers as well as those familiar with Griffith’s film. The accompanying soundtrack is an eclectic mix of Miller’s electronic compositions including a score written by Miller and recorded by the acclaimed string ensemble Kronos Quartet.

“Combining film, music, and other visual effects with the lightest of touches, Miller creates an unexpected mélange that addresses deep-seated attitudes in US society in a manner that is entrancing and disturbing in just about equal measure,” said Graham W.J. Beal, DIA director.

Miller’s media art has appeared in museums around the world, including the Whitney Biennial, the Venice Bienniale of Architecture, and the Tate Modern in London. His written work has been featured in The Village Voice, The Source, and Artforum among other publications. His most recent book, Sound Unbound, is an anthology of writings on electronic music and digital media. Miller, who has a discography of over 100 titles, has collaborated with a wide variety of musicians, artists, and composers in almost every category from hip-hop, jazz, rock, electronic, and reggae to classical and conceptual.

A moderated discussion between the audience and the artist will follow his performance. The dialogue will be led by Dr. Robin R. Means Coleman, associate professor of communication studies at the University of Michigan and author of Say It Loud! African American Audiences, Media and Identity.

Where: Detroit Institute of Arts Auditorium, Detroit
When: 8:00PM
Tix: $20.00 non-members, $18.00 members, students & seniors
www.dia.org

—————————————————–
Friday, August 15th

Rockin’ on the Riverfront present Blue Oyster Cult

The free classic rock concert series on the Riverwalk continues with the band that recorded on of the best non-pussy songs ever (“Don’t Fear the Reaper”—anyone ever see The Stoned Age? Come on now.). Also with Spitting Nickels.

Where: Detroit Riverwalk, Detroit
When: 8:00PM
Tix: Free admission
www.gmrencen.com

—————————————————-
Friday, August 15th

Oluyemi Abdu Thomas and Friends

This Detroit native makes a rare area appearance at Bohemian National Home. Since leaving our fair city, Thomas has enjoyed a significant, but under-documented career. He has appeared on bass clarinet, c-melody and soprano saxophone with many giants of creative music: Cecil Taylor, Sunny Murray, Alan Silva, Roscoe Mitchell and William Parker, to name a few. For this performance, he’s putting together a group of local collaborators to be announced.

Where: Bohemian National Home, Detroit
When: Doors 8:00PM
Tix: $10.00-$20.00
www.myspace.com/bohemiannationalhome

—————————————————-
Wednesday, August 27th

Detroit Synergy Supper Club at Cuisine

Cuisine is a Supper Club oldie but goodie, and Detroit Synergy is pleased to bring this popular event back to an old favorite that consistently shines over all others. Menu information coming soon.

Where: Cuisine, New Center, Detroit
When: 6:30PM-9:00PM
Tix: $30.00 prix fixe menu (includes tax and gratuity); optional wine package additional $10.00
www.detroitsynergy.org

—————————————————
ONGOING:

Thursday, June 19th- Saturday, September 27th

Panhandle Slim and the Oklahoma Kid

The Purple Rose Theatre Company is pleased to announce a four-week
performance extension of Jeff Daniels’ new comedy Panhandle Slim & The
Oklahoma Kid. Originally scheduled to close at the end of August,
Panhandle Slim will now run until September 27, 2008. Performances for the
remainder of the engagement will be Wednesdays through Saturdays at 8:00
pm with Saturday matinees at 3:00 pm and Sunday matinees at 2:00 pm with a
variety of added weekly performances. All performances are at the Purple
Rose Theatre, 137 Park Street, Chelsea, MI.

The additional performances are being added to accommodate record ticket
sales. “Positive word-of-mouth created an overwhelming demand for
tickets,” says managing director Alan Ribant. “We hope that adding another
month of performances will allow thousands of additional patrons the
opportunity to enjoy Panhandle Slim & The Oklahoma Kid this summer.”

Daniels’ twelfth new play, Panhandle Slim & The Oklahoma Kid is Daniels’
first Western. This winsome comedy tells the fateful tale of a prairie
showdown between a vagrant outlaw and a singing cowboy. Thrown together by
unfortunate circumstances, Panhandle Slim and The Oklahoma Kid argue the
virtues of mayhem, music and the meaning of life. This World Premiere
features original songs, as well as scoundrels, six-guns and a horse named
Buttermilk.

The World Premiere of Panhandle Slim & The Oklahoma Kid is directed by
PRTC artistic director Guy Sanville. The cast of this new comedy includes
former PRTC apprentice Jessica Garrett (Sea of Fools), PRTC resident
artist Phil Powers (Vino Veritas, Honus & Me), and PRTC associate artists
John Seibert (Sea of Fools, The Mystery of Irma Vep) and Tom Whalen (Honus
& Me, The Glass Menagerie). (Editors’ Note: Cast interviews and
biographies are available for hometown stories by calling 734.433.PRTC.)

This production of Panhandle Slim & The Oklahoma Kid includes set design
by Dennis G. Crawley, lighting design by Reid G. Johnson, costume design
by Christianne Myers, prop design by Danna Segrest and sound design by
Quintessa Gallinat. Michelle DiDomenico stage manages with Stephanie Buck
as assistant stage manager.

This PRTC production is generously underwritten by Target, Aisin World
Corp. of America, ADR North America and Vesco Oil Corporation.

Tickets for the extension go on sale on Monday, August 4; annual PRTC
donors of $250 or more may purchase tickets beginning on Monday, July 28.
Reservations can be made by calling the PRTC Box Office at (734) 433-ROSE
(7673); Box Office hours are Monday through Friday 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.

####

Extension Performance Schedule

Wednesday, September 3    3:00 pm          $25.00       added performance
Wednesday, September 3    8:00 pm          $25.00
Thursday, September 4     8:00 pm          $25.00
Friday, September 5       8:00 pm          $38.00
Saturday, September 6     3:00 pm          $33.00
Saturday, September 6     8:00 pm          $38.00
Sunday, September 7       2:00 pm          $33.00

Tuesday, September 9      3:00 pm          $12.50       added performance
Tuesday, September 9      8:00 pm          $12.50       added performance
Wednesday, September 10                                  no performances
Thursday, September 11    8:00 pm          $25.00
Friday, September 12      8:00 pm          $38.00
Saturday, September 13    3:00 pm          $33.00
Saturday, September 13    8:00 pm          $38.00
Sunday, September 14      2:00 pm          $33.00

Tuesday, September 16     8:00 pm          $12.50       added performance
Wednesday, September 17   8:00 pm         $25.00
Thursday, September 18    8:00 pm          $25.00
Friday, September 19      8:00 pm          $38.00
Saturday, September 20    3:00 pm          $33.00
Saturday, September 20    8:00 pm          $38.00
Sunday, September 21      2:00 pm          $33.00

Tuesday, September 23     8:00 pm          $12.50       added performance
Wednesday, September 24   3:00 pm       $25.00       added performance
Wednesday, September 24   8:00 pm      $25.00
Thursday, September 25    8:00 pm         $25.00
Friday, September 26      8:00 pm          $38.00
Saturday, September 27    3:00 pm        $33.00
Saturday, September 27    8:00 pm         $38.00           Closing Night

Where: Purple Rose Theatre, Chelsea
When: See above for schedule
Tix: Also see above
www.purplerosetheatre.org

—————————————————
Saturday, July 19th-Saturday, July 26th

A Trois

When does lust end and love begin?  Can love and sex co-exist?   And is it possible to have a nice breakfast in bed?  Three average people fall in and out of love while seeking the answers to these questions in this meditation on relationships and orange juice.
 
Echoes Theater Project is proud to be the lone Detroit-area company producing at the Windsor Fringe Festival.  The Canadian-premier of this unconventional play stars Equity actress Emily Rose Merrell, international comedian Frank Gutierrez and local actor Stephen Blackwell under the direction of Michael Carnow.
 
A Trois will be performed at the Art Gallery of Windsor at the following times:
 
Saturday, July 19                 8:30 pm
Sunday, July 20                    4:30 pm
Monday, July 21                  7:30 pm
Wednesday, July 23           7:00 pm
Thursday, July 24                5:00 pm
Saturday, July 26                 12:00 pm
 
Art Gallery of Windsor is located at:
401 Riverside Drive West
Windsor, Ontario
N9A 7J1  Canada
 
A Trois is for mature audiences only. 

Where: Art Gallery of Windsor, Windsor
When: See above
Tix: $9.00
www.windsorfringe.com
www.chryslertheatre.com

—————————————————-
Through August 11th

The Facts of Life: The Lost Episode

Who Wants Cake? is pleased to announce a one week extension of their 2008 summer hit, The Facts of Life: The Lost Episode by Jamie Morris. The Facts of Life will continue to play Saturday-Mondays at The Ringwald Theatre in Downtown Ferndale through Monday, August 11th. 

After sold-out runs across the nation, the wildly popular The Facts of Life: The Lost Episode has been selling out at The Ringwald Theatre! Written by Jamie Morris, creator of the LA Weekly Theatre Award-winning comedy Mommie Queerest, Facts features an all-male cast as the girls from Eastland.

The lost episode in question is titled “The Best Little Whorehouse in Peekskill .” Budget cuts are threatening to force Mrs. Garrett (Joe Bailey) to leave Eastland. But like the theme song states, “You take the good, You take the bad” and Blair (Richard Payton), Tootie (Jerry Haines), Natalie (Joe Plambeck) and Jo (Jamie Richards) are willing to do anything to raise enough money for her to stay. Anything. 

NOTE: The Facts of Life: The Lost Episode does not incorporate actual episodes. This is a new unauthorized parody inspired by the beloved sitcom.

The Facts of Life: The Lost Episode features a talented cast that includes Joe Bailey, Richard Payton, Joe Plambeck, all of Ferndale , Jerry Haines of Royal Oak , and Jamie Richards of Birmingham .  Joe Bailey will also direct. 
-           Performances will continue now through Monday, August 11th, 2008.
-           Show times are Saturday, and Monday nights at 8:00 PM.  Sunday performances are at 3:00 PM
-           Ticket Prices are $20 for Saturday performances, $15.00 Sunday matinees and Monday is our HALF OFF night at $10 a chair!   
-           The Ringwald is located at 22742 Woodward Avenue in the Times Square of Ferndale.
-           Reservations may be made by calling 248-556-8581 or online at www.WhoWantsCakeTheatre.com.
-           PLEASE NOTE:  The Facts of Life: The Lost Episode contains adult situations.

Where: The Ringwald Theatre, Ferndale
When: Saturdays and Mondays 8:00PM, Sundays 3:00PM
Tix: Saturdays $20.00, Sundays $15.00, Mondays $10.00
www.whowantscaketheatre.com