This Week in Food: SanTan Brewing Co.
We asked Jamie from SanTan Brewing Co. to give us the low down on Downtown Chandler’s friendly neighborhood brewpub.
Quick Background:
Open since 2007 under the leadership of head brewer and owner, Anthony Canecchia, SanTan Brewing Company has established astrong reputation as one of Arizona’s favorite craft breweries. In addition to brewing, SanTan features a friendly neighborhood brewpub in Downtown Chandler, which has quickly become one of the top local food and beer destinations in the Phoenix metro area. Winner of the 2013 Chandler Small Business of the Year.
Describe your restaurant:
American brew pub fare with a Southwestern twist, Open and vibrant environment surrounded by brewing tanks and 8 HD TVs.
Why support the arts in Chandler?
As a local business and community partner we feel the Arts and Culture are an integral part of any community to keep growing and evolving.
How many beers do you have on tap? What would be the top 3 beers to suggest to beer buffs?
A variety of beers on draft made on premises, Most popular are our Flagship Devils Pale Ale, SunSpot Golden Ale and or Seasonal beer selections.
Any new beers or dishes for 2014?
Sex Panther Double Chocolate Porter. Best new dishes are our “From the Smoker” Smokehouse BBQ Sampler and Shrimp & Grits.
If your still looking for a place to eat for Eat Your Out Chandler (http://eatyourartoutchandler.org/) on Tuesday 2/25/14, make sure you check out SanTan Brewing Co. and try their new beers on tap and new dishes.
Put The Band Back Together
Do you like free? Be sure to join in on the free fun happening at Chandler Center for the Arts during the entire month of August.
Our FREE summer concert series, On The House, officially kicks of with a beat hopping performance by Bad Cactus Brass Band inside the Center this Friday, August 2 at 7:30pm.
Before the show begins, don’t miss your chance to win 2 FREE tickets to one of our upcoming 2013-2014 season shows. How, you might ask? All you have to do is Put The Bad Cactus Brass Band “back together” before 7:30pm. It might sound like a difficult task, but we have broken it down into two easy steps:
Step 1: On Friday, August 2, 2013, collect 5 of the 6 band member cards from the following Downtown Chandler locations (one block south of the Center on Boston Street):
– Di Sciacca Glassware
– Sibley’s West
– Bourbon Jacks Bar & Grill
– Paletas Betty
– Shoe Thrill
Step 2: Go to the CCA lobby promo table to collect the 6th band member card. Show all 6 band member cards to the person at the promo table to be entered into our drawing*
Participants will be entered into a drawing to win 2 tickets to one of the following shows:
– The Australian Bee Gees Show
– Michael A. Pollack presents Blood Sweat & Tears
– Zoppe, An Italian Family Circus
– Moscow Festival Ballet presents Swan Lake
– One Night of Queen
– SIRO-A
We’ll see you on Friday!
Ole! FlaMEXico!
The journey to find a genuine fusion of two distinct and profound musical styles is a daunting task for anyone. Can it be done? Do two separate arts have a common-ground musically that adequately represent the cultural integrity of each?
Enter Chris Burton Jácome, Flamenco guitarist and composer. Jácome felt a driving force to answer these questions. He charged his project, ¡FlaMÉXico!, with finding, creating and celebrating the musical confluences of Spain’s Flamenco and México’s Mariachi.
Fast forward to today, ¡FlaMÉXico! has created an enthralling show featuring the melding of two beautiful arts and cultures. During our FREE summer concert series on Friday, August 23 at 7:30pm, ¡FlaMÉXico! will present their findings in a way that will move you to your feet.
Out of pure curiosity as to why anyone would challenge themselves with such a large musical task, we interview Jácome more about his musical journey. Here’s what we found out:
Chandler Center for the Arts [CCA]: How old were you when you started your musical journey?
Chris Burton Jácome: I received my first guitar when I was 13. I started taking lessons right away and, according to my friends, I reached a pretty good skill level more quickly than they might have anticipated. I don’t really consider myself consciously deciding to pursue music though until I was in my late teens. I got more and more into music throughout my teenage years…started giving other high school kids guitar lessons when I was 16. I consider my “official” journey beginning when I decided to get a degree in music in college.
CCA: Do you play any other instruments other than the guitar?
Jácome: I am not musically fluent on any other instrument. I sing. I have composed some very basic piano music but the only instrument I play and can “speak my mind” on is guitar.
CCA: Your website mentioned the “fusion of two distinct and profound musical styles began as more of a whim.” Did you ever imagine this “whim” would bring you to where you are at today?
Jácome: Great question! Sometimes the ideas that just “come to you” are the best ideas! This “whim” that I had a few years ago has already transformed into a very solid, real group. I’m somewhat perplexed as to how this is all working myself…but it is! I still consider this idea in its beginning stages but I am finding more and more artists who are willing to put in the time and energy to cross-train in two different artistic styles and the more artists I get on board the more I can develop the concept. I’m really excited to bring this project to Chandler Center for the Arts and the greater Chandler community. I’ve always believed that Flamenco is an art form that everyone can appreciate but now with the fusion of mariachi music this concert will be a real delight for anyone who has grown up here in the Southwest or has an affinity for Mexican and Spanish cultures.
CCA: Are there any musicians or bands who have inspired you?
Jácome: Generally, I find inspiration in all bands and all music. Specifically, Flamenco artists that inspire me include: Paco de Lucía, Tomatito, Inés Bacán, Moraíto, Manuela Carrasco, Ramón Montoya, Pedro Sierra, Juan Manuel Cañizares, Antonio Mairena, Fernanda de Utrera. In Mariachi…although not traditional, I’m biased because our cousins are married…Linda Ronstadt. As well as artists such as Vicente Fernández, Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán, Nati Cano’s Mariachi Los Camperos and all of the mariachi artists that I’ve seen and heard in my life.
CCA: What can our patrons expect from the upcoming show?
Jácome: Rhythms that make you want to dance! Heart-wrenching songs that make you want to hear them again and again! Flamenco footwork that will blow your mind! And, of course, a group of highly skilled artists that love being the tour-guides into the music and dance of the cultures of Mexico and Spain.
CCA: Do you have any advice for aspiring musicians?
Jácome: Keep practicing, playing, studying, learning and developing. Find as many teachers as you can. Above all, define your goals with music because your destination will determine what route you take and how dedicated you must be to reach your destination. If your goal is to have fun, then by all means, have fun! Learning a musical instrument enriches your life and provides so many opportunities to create great relationships and communities. If your goal is to become a professional musician and earn your living from your music, well then, you might not have the luxury of music always being fun. Prepare yourself to sometimes call music, “work.”
CCA: Any additional comments?
Jácome: This is going to be a great evening! Flamenco and Mariachi are both art forms of the people and they are wonderful performance art forms because the more audience participation, the BETTER! Please come early to get a good seat and bring your gritos (mariachi yells) and your ¡Olé!’s (flamenco words of encouragement) because we’re going to have a night to remember!
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Come and enjoy the best of both worlds of ¡FlaMÉXico!, the musical reflection of two cultures forming a new vision on Friday, August 23 at 7:30pm. No tickets required, the show is FREE. All seating is first come, first served. Doors open at 6:30pm, and seating starts at 7pm. Suggested donations: $5/person, $10/family. Your financial support is appreciated.
Transend Through Water – Interview with Lisa Starry
We had the lucky privilege to speak with Lisa Starry the Artistic Director for Scorpius Dance Theatre and creator of their upcoming show, Dreaming In Water. The performance showcases water in an all inclusive sensory experience. All we can say is forget everything you thought you knew about modern dance, this show takes everything to a new level of excitement.
CHANDLER CENTER FOR THE ARTS (CCA): Where did the idea for Dreaming In Water come from?
LISA STARRY: This is a remastered production of my first original water-themed production “Water Dreams.” 12 years ago I put on an outdoor water safety show to create awareness. However, the show was put on during the summer and it was just too hot to enjoy. This inspired me to take the show indoors, which lead to a more artistic message.
Today’s show is centered around a little boy with a big imagination. He dreams of water and the creatures that exist within (such as fish and jellyfish). During the performance there will be short video clips featuring his underwater adventure.
CCA: How many lights does it take to create the water effect on stage?
STARRY: We will use all of the lights Chandler Center for the Arts uses, plus a dozen of our own intelligent lights. The intelligent lights create the illusion of water moving. We also use fabric to create the water effect.
Photo by Rose Tores
CCA: How long does it take for the dancer to be strapped into the aerial apparatus?
STARRY: The Bungee apparatus we will use for the Jellyfish scene (featured in side photo) takes multiple bungee straps and double point harnesses. This requires a ladder to strap each dancer in. This also takes rope hooks to maneuver each dancer around the stage. It is time consuming. Immediately after the first act, the aerial crew goes to work. By the end of intermission the dancers are ready to perform.
CCA: Do you have a favorite scene?
STARRY: I am happy with everything. I am most excited about presenting the aerial pieces. I am also excited for the mini pool scene. There is some humor incorporated to make the piece more fun. We also have some athletic pieces. These are incredible scenes and are great to see.
CCA: What form of dance can we expect to see?
STARRY: There is some contemporary modern dance, which includes a lot of techniques and some ballet. There is also the athletic pieces. To finish off the performance there is some Broadway-ish dancing. We bring in a piece that features Singing in the Rain.
CCA: Anything else a viewer might be interested in knowing?
STARRY: A limited number of people have seen the underwater footage – this is the big secret of the show. The dancers haven’t even seen the footage. They actually won’t see the footage until we have our dress rehearsal at Chandler Center for the Arts. It is a beautiful water section.
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This is the public’s opportunity to taste in the magic of Dreaming In Water and all the hard work they have put forth. Dreaming in Water will premiere at Chandler Center for Arts this Saturday, April 13 at 8pm with new choreography by Lisa Starry, original underwater filming by Josh Kasselman, Music Composition by Kristopher Hill and Ryan Breen and lighting design by Mike Eddy. Get your tickets here!
Arizona Gives Day – March 20
A Special Message From Our General Manager:
Dear Friend of the Arts,
You are likely already aware of the tremendous power and inspiration that comes from participating in, learning or witnessing an art form. Perhaps your child or loved one has attended a program at the Chandler Center for the Arts, or maybe your soul came to life as you attended a concert or play. Whatever the case may be, you can help ensure that others experience that same power.
On March 20, 2013, thousands of area residents are going to show their support for their favorite nonprofit during Arizona Gives Day. On that day, every donation and donor we get will go further to help us claim a share of $177,500 in additional cash awards.
For as little as $10, you can make a tax deductible contribution to the Chandler Center for the Arts. Since 1989, the Center has delivered a comprehensive array of quality performing and visual arts programs to Valley residents from all generations and walks of life. You can help sustain this tradition by participating in Arizona Gives Day.
Please consider helping with these three things:
1) Mark March 20, 2013 on your calendar and visit the donation link here!
2) Donate!
3) Spread the word! Forward this e-mail to your friends and family why you think they should help us with their donation. Everyone can help empower our community by supporting arts and culture.
Thank you for considering the Chandler Center for the Arts on Arizona Gives Day. Together, we can make a difference in delivering quality arts and culture to a broad population.
Warm Regards,
Katrina Pappas
General Manager
Chandler Center for the Arts
250 N. Arizona Avenue
Chandler, AZ 85225
Art Full Of Gratitude
Eat Your Art Out Chandler was a success. Thank you to all those who went and ate their “art” out. It was wonderful to see the community supporting the arts. A special thank you to all of the restaurants and their staff who participated. We can’t wait for next year! In the meantime, please continue to go out to eat and support the restaurants who graciously supported us.
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
Inspire Your Heart With Art
“The aim of art is to represent not the outward appearance of things, but their inward significance.” – Aristotle
Happy Inspire Your Heart With Art Day! Today we celebrate art and the effect it can have on our hearts. Each form of art can inspire our hearts to feel.
The Chandler Center for the Arts is certainly a place to inspire your heart with art. We are lucky enough to have art in the form of performances almost every weekend (see full schedule here).
We also have a gallery filled with art. Tomorrow, February 1, the gallery reopens its doors to the public. The gallery will feature “Waterworks: Really Abstract or Abstractly Real?” This is an exhibit of artworks by Arizona watercolor critique group Waterworks. The Waterworks Artists are ten artists who live in the Valley of the Sun. A group spirit of friendship, cooperation and support is created through open sharing of water-media ideas, art related information and constructive painting critiques. While maintaining the highest levels of artistic professionalism, these artists have exhibited widely since 1995 in many prominent venues. Learn more about the artwork and artists here.
Join in inspiring your heart at Chandler Center for the Arts. Your heart and mind might work harmoniously or conflict with emotion as you waltz through the gallery or observe a performance.
Run Away to the Circus
Ready to run away to the circus? If so, you are in luck! The Zoppé Italian Family circus is coming to Chandler Center for the Arts on December 26. The circus will be in town until Jan. 5, 2013.
Although it might not be a “permanent escape” the show will allow you to run away from your daily to-dos and be swept away by the acrobatic feats, equestrian showmanship, canine capers, and clowning around. So pack your bags (more like pack up the car with your friends and family) and head over to the big white and blue striped tent.
As soon as you arrive, you are instantly transported to the old Italian circus world. People are bustling around, the smell of popcorn wafts though the air, circus music plays in the background, and excitement abounds. The performers enter the ring and you can bet your inner child will emerge. You will laugh, you will cry, you will be on the edge of your seat! Before you know it you are lost in the magic of the circus.
As the show comes to an end you might find yourself asking Giovanni Zoppe, the sixth-generation circus performer who plays Nino the clown, if you can join the circus. Today could be your lucky day.
Either way, make sure you run away to the Zoppé Italian Family circus this season, even if it is just for a day!
To learn more or to purchase tickets click here.
American Girl Fashion Show! Celebrating Girls & Their Dolls This Saturday (Nov. 3)
For those of you who are un
familiar with American Girl, American Girl is an American line of 18-inch dolls released in 1986 by Pleasant Company. The dolls portray girls age 9-11 of a variety of ethnic backgrounds accompanied with story books told from the viewpoint of the girls. Originally the stories focused on various periods of American history, but were expanded in 1995 to include characters and stories from contemporary life.
The Pleasant Company has been awarded the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Award eight times!
As a little girl, the excitement of a new doll was a treasured moment for me. I remember flipping through the glossy pages of the American Girl magazines wishing and hoping for the beautiful Samantha American Girl Doll. She had long brown hair – just like me. She was everything my little girl heart longed for.
I remember my birthday when I unwrapped the long rectangle box, lifted the lid and to my amazement the beautiful dark-haired doll awaited. It was one of my most exciting birthday memories. From that point on Samantha and I always had to dress alike and go everywhere together. I had to have all of her books, the trading cards and the American Girl magazines. Naturally when my little sister received her first doll, Kirsten, the four of us were inseparable.
You can imagine my excitement, almost 20 years later, to learn the American Girl Fashion Show is coming here to Chandler Center for the Arts this Saturday, November 3. Girls and their dolls can come see the newest in American Girl Fashions and learn about the history of American Girl Dolls.
Show times are 10:00 am, 2:00 pm, and 6:00pm. The event ticket price includes the fashion show, a goody bag of treats, and an American Girl favor bag. Tickets are $30.00 per person and can be purchased at www.chandlercenter.org or by calling the box office at 480-782-2680.
This is an event you and your little one will not want to miss. Believe me, there is nothing quite like the memories a young girl and her American Girl doll can make together.
*http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Girl
Monday Mashup: Free Summer Concerts and 3 Evenings With The Arts
Less than 5 days until the Center is ready to rock another successful Free Summer Concert Series and our brand new never before seen 3 Evenings With The Arts fundraiser.
Friday (July 27) is our first Free Summer Concert show of 2012. The doors open at 6:30pm, but seating doesn’t start until 7:00pm, and its first come, first served. Comeback Buddy doesn’t take the stage until 7:30, so you’ll have plenty of time to get home, relax for a minute (maybe cool down) before you head out to see one of the best shows that CCA has to offer.
Yes, the concert is free, so you could just show up and watch the show, but we’d appreciate a little love in the form of a couple of bucks. The suggested donations are $5 per person, $10 per couple and $15 per family. Like I said, these are just suggestions, so do what feels right. The important thing is to come out, support local music and have a good time.
On Saturday (July 28) we start our first 3 Evenings With The Arts Fundraiser with Joe Bourne & Trio performing “Remembering Mr. Cole, a Tribute to Nat King Cole.” Joe is a great guy with an amazing sound, and he’s just what we need to get this fundraiser off to a running start.
But 3 Evenings With The Arts isn’t just about the show, it’s about raising money for our Connecting Kidz so that we can continue to offer an arts program to kids who may not have access to art. To do that, we’ve come up with a silent auction prizes that include:
Two Tour Tickets to Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West
A Cigar Package
Phoenix Rock Gym day pass for two plus all the gear you’ll need
A Jeweled Pen Set
Two passes to Augusta Ranch Golf Club, including a cart & lunch
A Wine Package
A pack of 10 passes Stratum Laser Tag
A Cigar Box Guitar made right here in Chandler (If you’ve been to the Art Walk, you’ll have seen or heard these guitars.)
Two tickets to the Invisible Theatre
Black & White Photo Art from Heather Wilson Creates
Four passes to the Musical Instrument Museum
A limited edition Brighton Bracelet & Towel
Four tickets to an Arizona Diamondbacks game
One family pass to Desert Botanical Gardens
And a Raffle!
$5 each or 5 for $20
The Fishermans Retreat, a signed lithograph by artist Graham Foster
A Waterford Crystal Clock
Crown Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort one-night stay for 2 including breakfast
We’re also going to have wine tasting from Chateau Ste. Michelle, hors d’oeuvres and The Crawford Brothers performing in the lobby starting at 6:30. If those aren’t reasons to be here and help kids, then I don’t know what is.
See you this weekend!
Chandler Center For The Arts 