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, January 31st-Sunday, February 3rd: Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Returns to the Detroit Opera House

Hailed as one of America’s most electrifying dance companies and always a favorite of Detroit audiences, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater returns to the Detroit Opera House stage for five incredible performances, Jan. 31 – Feb. 3, 2008. Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s 2008 Detroit appearances are a “must-see” for dance enthusiasts and novices alike.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, which last appeared at the Detroit Opera House in 2006, will present a special mix-repertory program as part of the 2007-08 Chrysler Foundation Dance Series. The program will vary by performance, and will include works by notable choreographers including Alvin Ailey, Twyla Tharp, Judith Jamison, Rennie Harris, Talley Beatty and Maurice Bejart, set to music ranging from Janis Joplin and Pink Floyd to Stevie Wonder to Igor Stravinsky and Yo Yo Ma. The 2008 Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Detroit presentations are made possible by the National Endowment for the Arts and the New England Foundation for the Arts.

The highlight of the Detroit tour will include the Ailey classic Revelations, an Alvin Ailey favorite that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of African-Americans. Choreographed by Alvin Ailey himself, the enduring classic is a tribute to Alvin Ailey’s choreographic mastery. Set to African-American spirituals, song-sermons, gospel songs and holy blues, the work fervently explores the soulful places of deepest grief and holiest joy. Revelations will be performed at each program.

New this year to the Alvin Ailey repertory is Tally Beatty’s The Road of the Phoebe Snow. Originally performed in 1959, this new production by Masazumi Chaya makes its debut in Detroit in this exclusive performance at the Detroit Opera House. Set to music by Duke Ellington, The Road of the Phoebe Snow is a narrative that chronicles the existence of young people who live near the railroad tracks of an American city. The Road of the Phoebe Snow will be performed as part of the program opening night, Thursday, Jan. 31, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 2, 2008 at 8 p.m.

Flowers, choreographed in 1971 by Alvin Ailey, is an Ailey classic performed as part of the Detroit repertory. Inspired by the life of Janis Joplin, Flowers is set to music by Janis Joplin, Pink Floyd and Blind Faith. More than 30 years after its premiere, it remains a poignant, dramatic chronicle of one woman’s rise and fall as well as a timely statement on the price of fame. Flowers will be performed as part of the program on Friday, February 1, 2008 at 8 p.m.

The Firebird is a classic ballet set to the music of Igor Stravinsky, but Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is the first American company to perform the complete work choreographed by Maurice Bejart, when they add the Ailey magic to the radiant grandeur of his famous ballet. This Firebird reinterprets the traditional fairytale as an allegory of revolution, idealism and rebirth. The Firebird will be performed opening night, Thursday, Jan. 31, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 2, 2008 at 8 p.m.

Saddle Up! is an eclectic mix of Wild West characters set to music by Yo Yo Ma, Edgar Meyer and Mark O’Connor with choreography by Fredrick Earl Mosley. This exuberant hoedown reflects the joy and romance of Mark O’Connor’s “Appalachian Journey” compositions, and showcases the Ailey artists’ theatricality and flawless technical prowess. Saddle Up! will be performed Saturday, February 2, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 at 2 p.m.

What do you get when you mix Twyla Tharp’s high-octane choreography with powerful, fearless Ailey dancers? The Golden Section. Set to a sizzling, propulsive score by David Byrne, the work shatters the limits of human physicality with breathtaking leaps, finely-honed partnering and explosive joy. The Golden Section will be performed Saturday, Feb. 2, 2008 at 2 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 at 2 p.m.

Judith Jamison’s dynamic collaboration with hip-hop pioneer Rennie Harris and modern dance maverick Robert Battle lead to the birth of Love Stories. Set to music by Stevie Wonder, the work was inspired by the word “Sankofa,” a word in the Akan language of Ghana that means “go back” (Sanko) and “take” (fa). Love Stories will be performed Friday, Feb. 1, 2008 at 8 p.m.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater dancers will also be in Detroit January 7-11, 2008 to perform short lectures and programs for kids in Detroit-Area schools. Ailey dancers will visit Cranbrook schools in Bloomfield Hills, University Preparatory Academy, Golightly Education Center, Joyce Elementary School, Cass Tech High School, Duke Ellington Conservatory of Music and Art, and Friends School in Detroit, Southfield Lathrup High School, Farmington Harrison High School, and McIntyre Elementary School in Southfield.

A special master class led by members of Alvin Ailey will be held on Saturday, February 2nd, 2008 at 11 a.m. in the 5th Floor Dance Studio of the Ford Center for Arts and Learning at the Detroit Opera House. The master class will be open for students of intermediate and advanced modern dance, and the class costs $15 per person. Call Carol Halsted, Director of Dance for more information or to register at (313) 237-3426.

About Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater:

Founded in 1958 by dance pioneer Alvin Ailey, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is renowned for their expansive repertory, extensive touring schedules and community outreach efforts, as well as their masterful artistry. In the nearly 50 years since its founding, the company has grown from a small, mostly black company into a large, multi-racial institution, fulfilling Ailey’s dream to “touch everyone’s heart through dance.”

Under the leadership of Judith Jamison, Artistic Director since 1989, and Masazumi Chaya, Associate Artistic Director, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater has furthered its legacy as an American institution, performing works by many of the world’s leading choreographers, and packing houses in cities around the globe. Unrivaled artistry and masterful technique are hallmarks of this exceptional company.

Where: The Detroit Opera House, Detroit
When: Thurs. Jan 31st, 7:30PM. Fri. Feb. 1st, 8:00PM. Sat. Feb. 2nd, 2:00PM & 8:00PM. Sun. Feb. 3rd, 2:00PM.
Tix: $23.00-$73.00
www.motopera.org

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Thursday, January 31st-Saturday, February 16th: Breathe Art Project Presents Oleanna

Breathe Art Theatre Project performs David Mamet’s Oleanna, January 31 to February 23. Oleanna will run at Detroit’s Furniture Factory, Thursday, January 31 to Saturday, February 16; then transfer to Windsor’s Mackenzie Hall on Friday, February 22 and Saturday, February 23. Thursday, January 31 will be a 2 for 1 Preview Performance.
“Oleanna” Ticket Information:
$20 General, $15 Student/Senior
By Phone:
Detroit shows - Breathe Art line at 313.831.1939
Windsor shows - Mackenzie Hall Box Office 519.255.7600
By Email: BreatheArtTheatreProject@yahoo.com
Performance Venues, Times and Dates:
Detroit Performances at The Furniture Factory, 4126 Third St.
Thursday, January 31 (2 for 1 Preview)
Friday, February 1, February 8, and February 15 at 8 p.m.
Saturday, February 2, February 9, and February 16 at 8 p.m.
Sunday, February 10 at 2 p.m.
Windsor Performances at Mackenzie Hall, 3277 Sandwich St.
Friday, February 22 and Saturday February 23 at 8 p.m.

Additional Show and Theatre Information: www.BreatheArtTheatre.com

Oleanna Synopsis: when a male college professor and his female student sit down to discuss her grades, they become the participants in a modern reprise of the Inquisition. Harmless remarks and Socratic dialogue turn into an X-ray of the mechanisms of communication and power in academic circles – between teachers and students, social classes, and men and women.

Director: Demetri Vacratsis
Cast: Aaron Moore, Katie Galazka
Assistant Director: Kevin Young
Scenic Designer: Marna Vacratsis
Lighting Designer: Sergio Forest

Oleanna is one of two David Mamet productions to open in Detroit in February. The Abreact, which performs in the Zeitgeist performance space, will open its production of American Buffalo on February 22.

Where: Furniture Factory, Detroit
When: See above for venue times
Tix: $20.00 adults, $15.00 students and seniors
www.breathearttheatre.com

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Saturday, February 1st: Jim Baker/Steve Hunt/Brian Sandstrom/ Mars Williams

Jim Baker is a pianist/keyboardist based in Chicago, both known for his brilliant piano playing and his bold work on the ARP synthesizer. He’s played in noted Chicago groups like Caffeine, Witches and Devils and Exploding Star Orchestra. In a 20 year career on the scene, he has played with greats from Chicago and beyond, including: Fred Anderson, Ken Vandermark, Edward Wilkerson, Curtis Black, Jim O’Rourke, Tony Suto, Ben Vida, and Matt Wilson, Josh Abrams, Harrison Bankhead, Michael Cristol, Dan Simon, Mitch Straeffer, Kevin Tkacz, Matt Thompson; Louis Varro; oboeist Robbie Hunsinger; NRG Ensemble founder Hal Russell, Fred Lonberg-Holm, Jeb Bishop, Bob Marsh, Weasel Walter, Ajaramu (Skeeter’s Dad?!), Hamid Drake, Tim Keenan, Tim Mulvenna, Afifi Phillard, Damon Short, Grant Strombeck, Chad Taylor, Bob Vernae, Matt Weston, and Zaid.

Mars Williams is one of Chicago’s best known and most versatile reed players. He was a member of the NRG Ensemble, The Peter Brotzmann Chicago Octet and the original Vandermark 5. He currently has a group with ex-MC5 guitarist Wayne Krammer, XMARSX. In the early 80s, Williams did a stint in New York, playing New Wave Rock with The Waitresses, The Psychedelic Furs and Billy Idol, while participating in the Downtown scene with John Zorn, Bill Laswell and Elliot Sharp. Eventually sick of the New York rock and roll pace, he returned to Chicago and the NRG Ensemble- where he started long and fruitful relationships with Ken Vandermark and others, including Michael Zerang and Hamid Drake.

Brian Sandstrom (bass and Guitar)and Steve Hunt (percussion) round-out Baker’s regular working quartet. Hunt is also a member of Caffeine and has played with Mats Gustafsson and Ingebrigt Haaker Flaten; Sandstom’s credits include work with Hal Russell, Kent Kessler, Vandermark and Von Freeman.

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

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Tuesday, February 5th: Fishbones’ Mardis Gras Masquerade

Party like it’s Bourbon Street (or, at least, party like it’s Friday) at Fishbones’ annual Mardis Gras Masquerade Ball! The King and Queen of the Ball will walk away with $1000—the more extravagant your costume, the better your chances! The Killer Flamingos will be there providing the tunes, and the food will be fabulously Creole. And there’s a hurricane bar. Mmmmm…something about booze in big tall glasses just makes it all better, doesn’t it?

Where: Fishbones, Detroit
When: 8:00PM-whenever
Tix: Free admission??? (I see nothing that leads me to believe otherwise)
www.fishbonesusa.com

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Tuesday, February 5th-Wednesday, February 6th: Celebrate Chinese New Year with Mon Jin Lau

On Tuesday, ring in the Year of the Rat at Mon Jin Lau with Chinese New Year Dinner & Entertainment: Magicians, Fortune Tellers, Lion Dance, Firecrackers, & Asian Martial Arts. Paid tickets to this event gets you free admission into the Wednesday event, the Chinese New Year Lantern Celebration with DJ’s Tom T & Matt A, and percussions by Bruce Cobb. Also featuring a Lion Dance, Firecrackers, and Laughing Buddhas.

Where: Mon Jin Lau, Troy
When: Tuesday, 7:00PM; Wednesday, 9:00PM
Tix: $89.00
www.monjinlau.com

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Tuesday, February 5th: Italian Olive Oil and Aged Balsamic Vinegar Tasting Dinner

Josie and George, proprietors of the Assaggi Bistro, and Dawn Bause, local cookbook author, and culinary director of the company “Cooking with Dawn” invite you to enjoy an evening with guest Chef Alvise Ballarin from the “Trattoria Laguna Restaurant” in Venice, Italy. Alvise is bringing with him wonderful Italian olive oils and age balsamic vinegars for his signature tasting dinners entitled “The Joys of Cooking with Italian Olive Oil and Aged Balsamic Vinegars.” He will be incorporating these wonderful oils and vinegars into the evenings dishes.

The cost to attend includes a formal olive oil and aged balsamic tasting, a 4 course Italian dinner accompanied by complementary wines. Live Italian Music with Pino Marelli.

Where: Assagi Bistro, Ferndale
When: 6:30PM-9:30PM
Tix: $85.00

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Tuesday, February 5th: Mitten Movie Project

MITTEN MOVIE PROJECT
independent short films

“MySpace: The Movie” Headlines the Mitten Movie Project
David Lehre Series Begins February 5th at the Main Art Theatre

Detroit, January 25, 2008 – The Mitten Movie Project is proud to present the history making, most downloaded movie of all-time, “MySpace: The Movie,” directed by Washington, Michigan, native, David Lehre. This month’s Mitten Movie Project marks the beginning of the David Lehre Series where each month thereafter a Lehre short will be shown on the big screen. All films in the February program are Michigan-made films and showcase the depth, creativity, and grittiness of area filmmakers. Showtime is Tuesday, February 5, 2008, at 7:30 p.m. at the Main Art Theatre (118 N. Main Street, Royal Oak, MI 48067).

“MySpace: The Movie,” which satirizes the lame behavior of MySpace users, has catapulted Lehre into the Hollywood spotlight. His amazing success story has captured the attention of Esquire magazine, GQ, Complex, the Los Angeles Times, the New York Times, and 20/20. Lehre’s impressive portfolio includes over 50 short films, music videos, comedy skits, and a pilot TV show for FOX in which he had full creative control and responsibility. The 22-year-old filmmaker from Michigan is seen as something of a hero to the YouTube generation with his witty and hilarious spoofs on popular culture, and his in-your-face attitude. Lehre heads a group of young up-and-comers ready to start a revolution in filmmaking. His ability to reach an untapped market aligns him with innovators such as Quentin Tarantino, Robert Rodriguez, and Hype Williams.

The Mitten Movie Project is a monthly film night dedicated to screening independent films the first Tuesday of every month at the Main Art Theatre in Royal Oak. Presale tickets are available for $8 at www.myspace.com/mittenmovieproject Tickets at the door are $10. A pre-screening reception starts at 6:30 p.m. in the Main Art lobby where moviegoers can mingle with the directors, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts. After the screening, a Q&A session will be conducted with the filmmakers in the theatre. An afterglow party will be held at Mr. B’s Pub (215 S. Main Street – 2 blocks south of the Main Art Theatre) to end the night’s activities.

MITTEN MOVIE PROJECT – PROGRAM NOTES

In order of screening:

TERRA (Raine Taurus 2069) [trailer] – Intrinsic Film (2008) (01:30) Directed by Nathan Quinn of SKITZ TV, The Crotchening, and Unconventional. One of several backstory shorts for the upcoming 2008 Future Fiction TV / Internet series TERRA. In this piece, tenacious journalist – Raine Taurus – has hired the S.E.R. (Shadow Earth Resistance) to help her investigate Predidyne Labs, a lab that is rumored to conduct unethical experiments and build abhorrent technologies. They discover that it’s all too true as the DIMS (Digitally Integrated Modified Soldiers) are running loose around the labs as well as the neighboring buildings. Once activated, the DIMS pound anything in their sight to a bloody pulp. www.myspace.com/intrinsicfilm

After the Bloodrush [trailer] – No Fun Films (02:08) Written and directed by Peter Trudgeon. After a virus exterminates ninety percent of the vampire population and turns eight percent into powerless “blood junkies,” some of the survivors stage what seems to be a Last Stand in Hamtramck, Michigan, by taking a valuable hostage . . . but things are not entirely what they seem as old grudges rise to the surface. With vampire hunters on one side, ancient powers on the other, and a trio of crazy vampire girls stuck in the middle, the only way out is through a maze of betrayals. www.nofunfilms.com, www.myspace.com/afterthebloodrush

American Piety [trailer] – Mass Effect Productions (01:40) Directed by Steven Karageanes. The trailer for this award-winning short takes a comedic look at what happens when a misguided man with more faith in his iPod than God gets hit by a car and goes to purgatory, and the only way to get back to Earth is choose a religion from three speed-dating sessions with Buddhism, Islam, and Christianity. “American Piety” will make its screen debut on March 5th as part of the March Mitten Movie Project.

The Good Wife’s Guide – Directed by Kristine Trever (06:50) Inspired by “The Good Wife’s Guide” that was originally published in the May 13, 1955, issue of Housekeeping Monthly, this witty and bizarre short features Ruth (Dana Drew) as she goes about her daily duties as the good wife. The original text of “The Good Wife’s Guide” was used for the voiceover narration. Originally from Detroit, Kristine Trever is now studying for her Ph.D. at Virginia Commonwealth University in Media, Art and Text.

Revolver – Skeletons in the Closet Films (1997) (05:43) Written and directed by Tom Gurisko. A short film that takes a lyrical look at the fine line between appreciation and exploitation. A cautionary tale about the hazards of sharing.

Intersection – KNAGENfilms (2007) (02:08) Written and directed by Tom Gurisko. Produced by Jen Atanasovski. Director of Photography Jeffery Schultz. Short horror film conceived as an experiment for the “Slo-mo Horror Film Festival.” Restricted by a 60 second length (not including titles), being shot entirely in slo-motion and staying within the genre of Horror, this film represented a unique challenge. “Intersection” is about the implications of a chance encounter on a dark street – the beginning of the end as the plague spreads.

Sockblobula – Directed by Taryn Shick (07:37) The first installment in the sock puppet series by Taryn Shick. A group of sock puppet friends spend the night together. Will they survive the night? Or fall victim to . . . Sockblobula?!?!

“g” – Directed by Rich Jackson (1996) (01:30) “g” is an experimental animation made of 1,350 individual hand drawn frames. More metaphorical than literal, the short follows an apparently un-flight worthy character sporting homemade wings who is faced with the choice of whether to put them into use.

Eternal Education – Directed by Shrine High School Summer Animation Students (4:59) In association with a Ramp Production, Chili Jacc 98, and a Livid Hands Production. “Eternal Education” tells the tale of a mysterious, sunglass-clad girl (Becky Sase) who has control over a powerful clock that makes the school day longer for the already dreary students of Shrine High School. The students try to obtain her clock and change the time so that the day will finally end.

Mangurt–Yogurt for Men – Thought Collide Productions (01:51) Directed by Rob Gulley and written by Gary Burnaska. Absurdist comedy at its best, this commercial debuts yogurt flavors like cold pizza, cheeseburger, and buffalo wild wings. Starring Clark Eagling, Howard Hertz, Bart Bealmear, Tiffanie Kilgast, Nicole LaDouceur, and Jeanne Joubin. www.thebrokenfuture.com

Forever in Time – A Chuck Grady Film (28:30) During WWII a pilot meets a girl at a USO dance and it’s love at first sight. After marrying the next day, he leaves for Europe but promises to return to have one more dance. However, his plane is shot down and he is killed. Now 60 years after his death, as she’s selling her house and being put into a nursing home by her daughter, she begins to receive mysterious signs from the pilot to meet at the train station where they last saw each other. Starring Jim Lewis (InZer0, Little Red Devil, The Horsemen).

MySpace: The Movie – Vendetta Studios and David Lehre Productions (11:17) Directed by David Lehre. The history making, most downloaded movie of all-time masterpiece by Detroit born director, David Lehre. Follow the stories of five people whose worlds were changed forever because of the addictive social networking site. Watch out for the Yeti! www.davidlehre.com

Where: Main Art Theatre, Royal Oak
When: 7:30PM
Tix: Standard movie ticket price applies
www.myspace.com/mittenmovieproject

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Wednesday, February 6th: Wednesday Wine Bar at No. VI Chophouse

The American Spirit triumphs in the subtle Pinot Noir of Oregon and the opulent reds of Washington State. Join Master Sommelier Madeline Triffon and the Matt Prentice Wine Team. This tasting includes at least 10 wines and a sumptuous hors d’oeuvres spread.

Where: No. VI Chophouse, Novi
When: 6:00-8:00PM
Tix: $40.00
www.mattprenticeorg.com

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Friday, February 8th-Sunday, February 10th: Detroit’s Winter Blast

For the fourth consecutive year, Detroit’s Winter Blast will return to Campus Martius Park in downtown Detroit. The celebration of winter experiences, dining, music and family fun will happen Friday, February 8-Sunday, February 10. The event had been in danger of cancellation due to budget shortfalls, and is still looking for sponsors, but WILL take place and still feature all the unique winter activities from years past.

In addition to a brand new festival layout comprised of the Chrysler Jeep Dodge Taste of Detroit and Pure Michigan Winter Experience entertainment districts, the 2008 Winter Blast will boast new activities such as the Winter Blast Film Festival and a two-day preview of Memorial Day Weekend’s annual Detroit’s Electronic Music Festival.

“Winter Blast is a celebration of everything our great city has to offer not only during the winter months, but all year long,” said Mayor Kwame M. Kilpatrick. “Jon Witz does a great job of showcasing Detroit’s restaurants, distinctive shopping, and cultural dynamism while providing children and families with a memorable wintertime experience. Winter Blast is a great reason to experience the NEXT Detroit if you haven’t already.”

“Through a dedication to Winter Blast from the City of Detroit, the festival continues to gain more and more momentum each year and we simply could not pull Winter Blast off without this commitment,” said Jon Witz, Winter Blast event producer. “But by no means have we stopped our fundraising and sponsorship outreach. We truly believe we have a top notch festival and will continue to work toward our financial goals to ensure the festival lives up to its reputation.”

Numerous area businesses have already stepped up to help make the event possible. Title sponsors include The Chrysler Foundation, DTE Energy michigan.org and Pure Michigan. Additional festival supporters include the Art Institute of Michigan, AT&T, Big Boy, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Budweiser, Charter One Bank, the City of Detroit, Chrysler Jeep Superstores, Comcast, Compuware, Crystal Mountain, Detroit Commerce Bank, Detroit Economic Growth Group, Detroit Auto Dealers Association, Detroit Receiving Hospital, Detroit Regional Chamber, Downtown Collection, Ernst & Young, Fifth Third Bank, ITC, Little Caesars, Meijer, MetroPCS, MGM Grand Detroit, Michigan Lottery, Penske Automotive Group, Pepsi, REI, Special Tree rehabilitation System, TUBBS Snowshoes, Quicken Loans and Walbridge Aldinger.

Further information regarding sponsorship opportunities can be obtained by calling (313) 963-8418.

FAVORITES RETURN
Favorite activities from previous years will be back for the public to enjoy. The entertainment districts will feature all of the exciting winter-themed activities that have taken place in each of the last two years, including marshmallow roasting, ice skating, professional and amateur ice skating sponsored by Charter One Bank and snowboarding exhibitions, ice sculptures, dog sledding and snowshoeing, along with food from 20 restaurants and caterers, live music from more than 60 bands on four stages, and special family-oriented activities. All Winter Blast concerts are FREE.

The wildly popular 200 ft. long Michigan.org Snow Slide and DTE Energy Comfort Zones, promising heat every 150-ft., will also return. In its second year, the Pure Michigan exhibit, located in the Compuware Atrium, will again feature activities, tourism exhibits and talent from across the State.

MetroPCS : Dine in the D was the most popular new Winter Blast program introduced in 2007 and is back for 2008, featuring more than 60 participating restaurants. Festival-goers can print out a coupon from www.winterblast.com and redeem it at participating restaurants for 15 to 25% off their bill. By visiting at least one restaurant during the festival weekend, diners can also enter to win dinner in Detroit for a full year. Coupon and restaurant list will be available at online on January 16, 2008.

NEW ADDITONS
For the first time ever, independent filmmakers will have the opportunity to show their films before Winter Blast patrons. The Winter Blast Film Festival celebrates Michigan filmmakers, as well as films about Michigan. The event will feature a variety of movies across an expansive number of genera, including Documentary, Feature, Short, Music Video, Animation and Experimental and appearances by select film writers and producers.

Filmmakers are invited to utilize the film festival as a channel through which to showcase their work and the chance to foster a collaborative network that will result in the creation of original motion pictures. The Festival is currently seeking submissions in all categories. Further information is available on the festival’s site (www.winterblast.com ).

For the first time ever, Winter Blast patrons will receive a two-day preview of the 2008 Detroit’s Electronic Music Festival (Movement 08’), featuring a few gems from Detroit’s thriving Electronic Music Scene. A high-energy celebration that will showcase up-and-coming local DJ’s and producers, the sneak peak will bring yet another level of culture and fun to an already stellar event which highlights Detroit’s beautiful downtown atmosphere and entertainment assets. Winter Blast patrons will not want to miss what festival producers have in store for the world’s litmus test for Techno music in the United States scheduled to take place in May.

A detailed line-up of all entertainment, activities and restaurants will be announced in late January 2008. Additional information can be found online at www.winterblast.com.
Detroit’s Winter Blast is produced by Jonathan Witz, President of Jonathan Witz & Associates.

Originally created as the backdrop for Super Bowl XL, Winter Blast attracted more than 200,000 people for its debut in 2005 and 1.2 million Detroiters and visitors during Super Bowl XL weekend in 2006. Last year, the festival was attended by more than 450,000 people. Winter Blast is Detroit’s celebration of winter experiences, dining, music and family fun to be held in downtown Detroit’s Campus Martius from, Friday, February 8-Sunday, February 10. The three-day festival will be open from 11 a.m. – Midnight on Friday, 10 a.m. – Midnight on Saturday and 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. on Sunday. For additional public information, visit www.winterblast.com or call (313) 963-8418.

FILM FESTIVAL TO DEBUT AT 2008 DETROIT’S WINTER BLAST
New festival exhibit provides venue for independent filmmakers
to share original work, submissions still being accepted

The First Annual Detroit’s Winter Blast Film Festival will debut as part of Detroit’s Winter Blast, during festival hours, Friday, February 8-Sunday, February 10. The event is open to the public and FREE to attend.

Held in Campus Martius Park on Woodward, under an enclosed heated tent, the three-day event will spotlight independent Michigan filmmakers and films about Michigan. Local and international talent will be represented. Select film producers and writers will lead relaxed questions and answer sessions after their films. A complete schedule of films will be available at www.winterblast.com at the end of January.

“Filmmakers need a channel through which to showcase their work and the chance to foster a collaborative network that results in the creation of original motion pictures,” said Marla Swartz, Film Festival organizer. “We’re excited that filmmakers will have an opportunity to showcase their work at such a unique event with such a diverse audience.”

The film festival will feature a variety of movies across an expansive number of genres, including Documentary, Feature, Short, Music Video, Animation and Experimental and appearances by select film writers and producers.

Among the films already slated to be shown:

Encore on Woodward- A rarely seen documentary detailing the restoration work of Detroit’s own Fox Theater by Oscar winner and Detroit native Sue Marx.

Kick-Out the Jams- Photographer/Filmmaker Leni Sinclair presents the only authorized documentary version of the MC5 (Motor City 5) story. The band was often regarded as one of the most important hard rock bands of their time (1960s-1970s).

Radio Revolution- Filmmakers Judy Holm and Michael McNamara premier their documentary of CKLW radio station, one of the country’s leading top 40 radio stations during the 1960s and 1970s.

Twenty to Life-Detroit legend John Sinclair is portrayed in this documentary by Steve Gebhardt.

The Festival is still seeking submissions from independent filmmakers in the categories detailed below. Amateur filmmakers are encouraged to apply.

• Documentary
• Feature: Long form (Greater than 66 minutes)
• Short Film (Under 66 minutes)
• Music Video
• Animation (Computer and other animation techniques)
• Experimental (Does not fit into any other category)

Films from Michigan filmmakers that are not about Michigan may also be considered.

Additionally, the festival is seeking participation from industry professionals to facilitate workshops for directing, cinematography, lighting and audio. To submit a film, volunteer to direct a workshop, or for more information, call Marla Swart at (517) 548-1780, email msswartz@chartermi.net, or visit www.winterblast.com.

Where: Campus Martius Park, Detroit
When: Fri. & Sat. 11:00AM-midnight, Sun. 11:00AM-9:00PM
Tix: Free admission, some fees may apply for certain activities
www.winterblast.com