Z贸calo Tucson arts and culture / ZOCALOMAGAZINE.COM / december 2015 / no. 69
inside
December 2015
07. Made in Tucson Gift Guide 19. A Look Back at 2015 45. Events 51. Arts 55. Film On the Cover: Happy Holidays!
Zócalo is an independent, locally owned and printed magazine that reflects the heart and soul of Tucson.
PUBLISHER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR David Olsen CONTRIBUTORS Craig Baker, Andrew Brown, Jefferson Carter, Sara Cline, Jon D’Auria, Gillian Drummond, Jamie Manser, Troy Martin, Amanda Reed, Diana Rhoades, Herb Stratford, Jeff Weber LISTINGS Amanda Reed, listings@zocalotucson.com PRODUCTION ARTISTS Troy Martin, David Olsen AD SALES: Kenny Stewart, advertising@zocalotucson.com CONTACT US:
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Conversations with the Dead November 10, 2015 - January 2, 2016 Reception: 7-10pm, November 14 | Book Signing: 1-4pm, November 15 Featuring 80 photographs by Danny Lyon taken in the Texas State Penitentiary System in 1967-68
The Line, Ferguson Unit, 1968
Cell Block Table, The Walls, 1968
Cotton Pickers, Ferguson Unit, 1968
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giftguide Z
Made in Tucson Holiday Gift Guide by Sara Cline, Amanda Reed and other Zócalo contributors Most locals seem to have a hidden gem they know about in Tucson, whether it is a shop tucked away on Fourth Avenue, a hidden hole in the wall restaurant or a favorite artist who produces truly inspiring pieces. Part of Tucson’s charm is its one of a kind treasures. During this time of year, a lot of us are bustling around looking for the perfect holiday gifts to give our friends and familes. A closer look not only reveals a plethora of locally owned businesses to choose from, but an amazing assortment of locally made goods. Local First Arizona encourages Tucsonans to support their local economy. The non-profit organization believes that buying from locally owned shops and artisans not only strengthens Tucson’s businesses but also builds a vibrant and booming community. With this in mind, Zócalo has created the following holiday gift guide highlighting just a few of the many products made right here in Tucson, Arizona. While this list is by no means comprehensive, we hope that it will serve as a starting point, inspiring those who seek gifts not made anywhere else.
Seedling Clayworks Tucson offers beautiful scenery and Samirah Steinmeyer, a local ceramic maker and owner of Seedling Clayworks, creates mugs that reflect Tucson’s natural and geological icons. “The rocks, cacti and landscape I find while hiking inspires a lot of my work.” Steinmeyer, who works in her home studio in Tucson, has shaped mugs that have 3D saguaro cacti, rigid rock decorations, and mesquite leave prints, all in an effort to capture the essence of Tucson’s landscapes. The mugs are perfect for someone who likes to start their morning with a sip of coffee and a touch of nature. For more information, visit SeedlingClayworks.com. Mugs as seen at Cultivate Tucson.
Jon Mavko Wood Turner and Sculptor Mavko tells us that he is always searching for the perfect curves. Looks like he’s found them on his finely crafted mesquite bowls and jars. Contact him at jonmavko@gmail.com As seen at Cultivate Tucson.
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Danny Martin’s Tucson Neon Coloring Book Having spent the past 3 years drawing Tucson’s historic neon signs, local artist Danny Martin has released an adult coloring book of his work. The 68-page perfect bound book includes 30 black and white drawings, all created by the artist on location. In addition, the book was also printed in Tucson. To order online, visit WoodandPulp.com
Julie’s Originals
Gloo Factory The Gloo factory prints everything from holiday cards, to bumper stickers, posters from local artists, buttons, Protect Oak Flat t-shirts, customized projects and more. And something unique are its fair trade items. “We have a unique collaboration with the DouglaPrieta Works, a women’s cooperative in Agua Prieta, Sonora. We sell locally for products sewn there,” said Dwight Metzger, owner and printer. The fair trade items include tot bags, aprons, potholders and even bandanas. To personalize the gift, the shop offers the option of adding screen printing to the item. The Gloo Factory is a union print shop. “We may not be the cheapest but we sell at a reasonable price to give employees a reasonable wage. We are conscious about how we source our materials. It is important to us to be active in the community promoting values that make life better here,” said Metzger. For more information visit TheGlooFactory.com or visit them at 238 E. 26th St. Also at the Gloo Factory is a project called Peace Supplies which creates stickers, shirts, patches, buttons and posters about political, social and environmental issues – making these great gifts for activists. Peace Supplies prints quotes and local art that is based around different projects and topics such as feminist stickers, Black Lives Matter t-shirts, and “Protect Sacred Oak Flat” posters. For more information, please visit peacesupplies.org. 8 ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com | December 2015
Local wildlife, art, fun and learning are all combined into one. Julie Rustad has taken her art experience as well as her years of being a mother to create The Desert Dwellers. “I came up with the idea when Syver (Rustad’s son), was one at the time, and was doing the ABCs. My son inspired me to come up with a better solution of learning that was fun and also included local wildlife,” said Rustad. Desert Dwellers are flash cards that teach children the ABCs but instead of J for Jellyfish it is for javelina and instead of R for rhino it is for roadrunner. Each letter represents local wildlife and also gives interesting facts about the creatures. The seven by four inch cards are $20 and can be purchased at JulieOriginals.com/desert-dwellers/ or at retailers such as the Little Bird Nesting Company, Barnes and Noble and even the Tucson Visitor Center. “This is something you can bring to a restaurant or on a car trip and your kid is not staring at a screen. It’s an old school idea that is fun,” explained Rustad. Also keep a look out for Julie’s family band, The Nap Skippers, who sing and perform for children, lending their voices to another fun and interactive way of learning.
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giftguide Z Shop Fletcher and Co Online print shop featuring imagery inspired by nature. Offering everyday cards, small square prints, large engineer and fine art Giclee prints. All products are crafted and produced locally in Tucson. More information at shopfletcherandco.photo.
Black Hill Design Jake Scott’s “Rattler Openers” are the perfect gift for the desert drinker in your life. Made of solid brass, these bottle openers are water jet cut and hand-filed by the artist. Get your hands on one by contacting Jake at Jake@blackhilldesign.com Bottle opener as seen at Cultivate Tucson.
La Curie Artisan Perfume Handmade unisex eau de parfums made by Leslie Wood of Tucson. More information at La-Curie.com. Perfume as seen at Cultivate Tucson.
MAST MAST is an excellent hub where local designers sell their trendy and unique pieces, making it a top selection for “made in Tucson” products. Among the designers are the store’s owners, each one specializing in her own craft. “Most of the pieces in the store are for woman who are fearless in their style,” said Tasha Bundy, one of the owners who specializes in jewelry. The black spinel mini bib necklace, created by Bundy, is a great gift for a trend-setter. It is a piece that is classy with an edgy side to it. The necklace is $88 and can be bought online or in the store. “When you walk into the store you can expect to find thoughtfully hand crafted gifts made locally,” said Bundy.
A second accessory that helps make an outfit fashionable is the arrow cuff by owner and designer Sofie Albertsen. The cuff is made of sterling silver and hand carved. The bracelet is $175 and a timeless accessory that can be paired with jeans and a shirt or a special event dress. MAST is not only for women, it also offers a variety of products for men. “We have beautifully handmade grooming products such as razors by John Leitch,” said Bundy. To order goods online, visit ilovemast.com. Their shop, located at 100 South Avenida Del Convento in the Mercado San Agustín, offers an even larger variety of great gifts made by independent local designers.
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Rustic Candle The Rustic Candle Company on 4th Avenue has candles that brighten up your room with color and light. While the store has an abundance of different scented candles it also specializes in “recycled candles”. “Why throw away your extra wax and add to a landfill?” said Monica Cota, shop owner. The Rustic Candle opens its doors to people with leftover wax from burned out candles. In return, the store offers money off future purchases. Cota then takes the leftover wax and combines it with other discarded wax of all colors and fragrances to create a new candle. The recycled pieces are hand poured in a workspace at the shop. They range from three to four inches to as tall as 17 inches. The candles come in a variety of shapes such as stars, cylinders, and pyramids. The cost is anywhere from five to thirty dollars based on size, which is less than a normal candle because they are recycled. “It is a hodge podge. It is almost like a mosaic effect and no two are ever alike,” said Cota. The candles can be bought at rusticcandle.net or at the Rustic Candle Company shop located at 324 North 4th Ave.
Kuumba Made
Poblano Hot Sauce Being a family owned business for over ninety years is another reason that makes this sauce a hot addition to your gift list. Perfect for your out-of-town guests, Poblano is the ultimate “made in Tucson” product. Pick ‘em up at Johnny Gibson’s Downtown Market, Food City, or at the Poblano Hot Sauce office: 3250 South Dodge Blvd.
Kuumba Made (made in Tucson) was created out of love for the botanical world. The Kuumba Made brand embodies a back to basics, ancient wisdom philosophy. Using leaves, roots, oils, and resins, they create concentrated and effective body care products free of toxic chemicals. Pictured right: Herbal First Aid – 6 powerful salves formulated to be effective, safe and gentle enough for children. They are made by hand in small batches with 90 to 98% certified ingredients. These herbal infusions are made in an olive oil base to ensure excellent skin absorption. Find out more at kuumbamade.com
Dragnass Soap by Joyce Speer We B’Jamin Farm With flavors like Tequila Sunrise, Mango Coconut, and Blackberry Coffee, these jams are good enough to eat on their own or to jazz up a slice of bread. They also make pickled items such as beets and bread and butter pickles, and chipotle sauces. Find locally at Johnny Gibson’s Downtown Market, Maynard’s Market and at the St. Phillips Plaza farmers market on Sundays. Learn more online at jamdiva.com
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Made with coconut oil and macadamia nut butter, these handmade soaps are sure to win over your sense of smell. We especially liked the fragrances of Beer (made with Guinness), Pomegranate, and Blue Corn & Prickly Pear. Beginning in January they can be found exclusively at the Santa Cruz River Market at: Mercado San Agustin 100 South Avenida del Convento
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Allegiant Brand Leather Leather belts, wallets and purses have always been a classic and ageless gift but what if you could give the gift of personalized leather? Anthony “Tony” Kincheloe, a leather worker and owner of Allegiant Brand, works in the way a tattoo artist does. You tell him what you want: a name, design, a sketch. He draws it out and communicates with the customer to assure it is to their liking. He will then take the design and hand tool it onto top grain vegetable tanned oiled leather. “I give every piece the attention it deserves,” he says. Having been in the business for 10 years, Tony prides himself on creating a product unique to each individual customer. He makes customized dog collars, designs on guitar straps, wallets, knife hoisters, collars, belts, motorcycle accessories, bags, you name it. For more information visit allegiantbrandleather.com or email Tony at tonypickup6@gmail.com.
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Pop Cycle Pop Cycle has the same unique and quirky vibe that Tucson charms its locals and visitors with. The shop focuses on using recycled goods to make pieces of art, apparel, jewelry and some very creative objects. The products are composed of recycled goods created by the owners and local artists. “If you want something handmade, that is community minded and a little bit funky, this is the place,” said Deedee Koenen, one of the owners of Pop-Cycle. The store is filled with recycled treasures of all sorts. One of the owners, Shannon Rigs, makes a line of apparel and accessories she calls Monster Booty Threads. The collection comes in shirts, bags, ties and hats. Riggs finds vintage clothing and adds her special touch, a little monster made from recycled materials. The characters can be anything from prickly saguaro cactus, scary skulls, or cute foxes. A local piece of jewelry sold at the store is a chain necklace with a pendant map of Tucson created by Michelle Spanyard. It makes a great gift for anyone who wants to keep Tucson close to their heart, whether they are local or live far away. Mark Molina creates “I heart Tucson” paintings, using skull Day of the Dead typeface that is accented with bottle caps that he finds on the ground in Tucson. It’s a colorful piece to hang in any room. Molina also sells printed works at Pop-Cycle that includes skull Wilbur and Wilma cartoons and even skull Star Wars prints. Items from Pop-Cycle can be bought online at squareup.com/market/pop-cycle-shop or in store at 422 N. Fourth Ave. December 2015 | ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com 13
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Barrio Bread Don Guerra, the owner, founder and baker for Barrio Bread, has always been conscientious about health. Guerra, who at one time was a P.E teacher now bakes over 800 loafs of bread a week! But what makes his bread truly special and delicious is the technique. “I use wild yeast and go back to primitive techniques with no sugar, no oils, to achieve a more nutritious taste, “ said Guerra. The wheat is fermented for long periods of time which Guerra says makes the bread more nutritious and easier to digest. He even feels his technique helps with gluten sensitivities. The bread has a 45 to 50 percent local grain component. Some of Barrio Bread’s tasty treats are rye breads, local grain breads which are seeded and crusted, and of course sour dough bread. A great loaf to bring to any holiday party is the delectable fruit breads, cranberry walnut bread or raisin pecan. The breads can be eaten as plain toast with just a little bit of butter, used as sandwich bread, or paired with cheese spreads, jam, or wine. For a list of places where you can purchase this tasty and healthy bread visit BarrioBread.com.
MiMo Project These delicate, modern mobiles are intended for a nursery but we love them so much we want one to adorn our home. Our favorite is the Desert Cactus mobile which can be found at Little Bird Nesting Company or online at: etsy.com/shop/MiMoProject
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Armory Park 437 S. 5th, c. 1898, French Colonial Revival, 1875 sq. ft. 3 Bedroom 2 bath. MLS # 21525215.
Armory Park
Barrio Santa Rosa 937 S. Meyer, c. 1905, Original Adobe, 1821 sq. ft. 2 bedroom 2 bath main house , 827 sq. ft. 1 bedroom 1 bath Guest house. MLS # 21524648.
512 - 514 S. 6th, c. 1885 Sonoran Adobe with metal roof 1908 sq. ft. 3 bedroom 2 bath high ceilings, 3 fireplaces. MLS # 21530992
Tim Hagyard Susie Deconcini 520.241.3123
Menlo Park 1133 W. Cedar, at the base of A Mountain tucked away behind mature lush hedges, 1950s double brick home situated on a large lot.....garden areas big enough to farm... sheds to fill...places to park MLS # 21531708
Feldman's 421 E Helen C. 1941, Mortar Washed Brick 895 sq. ft 2 bedroom 1 bath 895 sq. ft. large lot with pool MLS # 21519780.
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Look Back at
2015
Zócalo photo shoot inside one of MOCA’s mobile pools. 20 ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com | December 2015
Photo: David Olsen
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Photo: Andrew Brown
MOCA’s mobile pools.
Photo: Andrew Brown
Samuel Ireland named MOCA’s new director. December 2015 | ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com 21
Photo: David Olsen
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The Downtown Clifton opens (mural by Danny Martin)
Photo: David Olsen
The first Tucson Craft Beer Crawl. Second round coming spring 2016. 22 ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com | December 2015
Photo: David Olsen
A presidential candidate came to Tucson (Bernie Sanders at Reid Park.) Will Tucson be visited by other contenders in 2016?
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Photo: David Olsen
An estimated 15,000 people came out to see Sanders speak on October 9.
Photo: David Olsen
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Several new bars and restaurants opened downtown, including HighWire Lounge on Arizona Ave.
Photo: David Olsen
Site work for the eight-story AC Hotel by Marriott has begun downtown. 24 ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com | December 2015
Photo: David Olsen
Bryan Eichhorst pours drinks at Penca. December 2015 | ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com 25
Photo: A.T. Willett
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Terry Etherton and Andy Summers at Etherton Gallery.
Photo: Jeff Weber
Tucson Comic Con. 26 ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com | December 2015
Photo: A.T. Willett
2015 El Tour de Tucson.
Photo: David Olsen
Old Main on the University of Arizona campus. After a $13.5 million restoration, the building reopened before the 2014-2015 academic year. December 2015 | ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com 27
Photo: Jeff Weber
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XIXA at 10West Festival, Hotel Congress.
Photo: A.T. Willett
Tucson Festival of Films, Temple of Music and Art. 28 ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com | December 2015
Gabriel Sullivan of XIXA at 10West Festival, Hotel Congress.
Photo: Jeff Weber
Tucson Fashion Week. December 2015 | ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com 29
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Photo: David Olsen
Tanque Verde Swap Meet celebrated 40 years in 2015.
Photo: A.T. Willett
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James Van Praagh at the Fox Tucson Theatre.
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Photo: Andrew Brown
Closing of The District Tavern on Congress Street.
Photo: A.T. Willett
Noam Chomsky, right, at the Tucson Festival of Books.
Photo: A.T. Willett
Pop-up shop at Tucson Modernism Week. December 2015 | ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com 33
Ty Segall of FUZZ at Club Congress.
Photo: Jeff Weber
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Photo: Jeff Weber
Katterwaui album release party, at Club Congress. 34 ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com | December 2015
Photo: A.T. Willett
Tom Walbank on Hotel Congress patio.
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Photo: Jeff Weber
Kim of Kim and the Created at Club Congress.
A decent monsoon season in 2015. 36 ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com | December 2015
Photo: David Olsen
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Photo: David Olsen
Cultivate Tucson.
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Photo: David Olsen
Photo: David Olsen
Adam Lehrman of TucsonFoodie.com at the Tucson Craft Beer Crawl.
Artist Titus Castanza on 9th St.
Photo: A.T. Willett
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Firebird III GM Concept Car at Tucson Modernism Week, MOCA.
Photo: Andrew Brown
Alex Streeter
Sun Link modern streetcar in its second year of service, travels through a transforming downtown Tucson.
Photo: David Olsen
2015 Super Moon + Eclipse 38 ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com | December 2015
Photo: Andrew Brown
2015 All Souls Procession.
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Photo: David Olsen
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Tucson sunset.
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Photo: Jeff Weber
MOCA Pop-up pool party presented by Patrick Foley.
Photo: Jeff Weber
Michael Fey of Prom Body at Club Congress.
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Photo: Andrew Brown
Night of the Living Fest at La Cocina.
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Photo: A.T. Willett
4th of July, 2015.
Photo: David Olsen
Citizens Warehouse panel discussion at Etherton Gallery.
Mary Beth Cabana – Founding Artistic Director
December 11, 12 & 13 UA Centennial Hall TICKETS 520.621.3341 www.ticketmaster.com TICKET PRICES $19 – $58* (discount & group rates available) * Base ticket price does not include any applicable surcharges/processing fees.
EVENT SPONSOR
Southern Arizona McDonald’s Owner/Operator Association
JoAnn Cowgill
SEASON SPONSOR
The Crown Jewel of Downtown
Happy Holidays! Live Music, Comedy & More!
CARLEY RAE JEPSON DEC 2 | 7:30 PM
THE BAD PLUS JOSHUA REDMAN DEC 4 | 7:30 PM
Tickets at FoxTucson.com 520.547.3040 | Box Office 17 W. Congress 2015-16 Season Sponsor
SOUTHWEST SOUL CIRCUT GALA DEC 5 | 8 PM
DEC 6 | 7 PM
THE TEN TENORS Dec 8 | 7:30 PM
DWIGHT YOAKAM DEC 9 | 7:30 PM
JACKIE EVANCHO DEC 10 | 7:30 PM
DEC 11 | 7:30 PM
DEC 14 | 7:30 PM
LEANN RIMES DEC 16 | 7:30 PM
MERRY-ACHI CHRISTMAS DEC 17 | 7:30 PM
SISTER’S CHRISTMAS CATECHISM DEC 19 | 7:30 PM
HOLIDAY CLASSIC FILMS AT THE FOX WONDERFUL FAMILY MEMORIES!
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LEANN RIMES Dec 16 | 7:30 PM
THE POLAR EXPRESS
IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE
DEC 21 | 2:00 PM DEC 22 | 6:30 PM
DEC 21 | 6:30 PM DEC 22 | 2:00 PM
events Z
Cirque Roots presents Alice OnLine (AOL) Saturday, December 12th at the Tucson Museum of Art. Enjoy an evening at the mad tea party filled with theatrics, circus, tea fare, and live music. More information at www.cirqueroots.com.
december Dec 4 Mythbusters: Jamie and Adam Unleashed The mythbusters are coming to town, to Centennial Hall. Buy tickets for the show and learn more at MythbustersTour.com
Dec 4-6 and 11-13 Luninaria Nights at Tucson Botanical Gardens Stroll throught the Tucson Botanical Gardens at night as it is lit up with luminarias, filled with musical entertainment and tasty refreshments. The event is $18 for adults and $9 for children. The event happens for the first two weekends in December from 5:30 pm- 8:30pm at the Tucson Botanical Gardens, 2150 N. Alvernon. For tickets and more information visit TucsonBotanical.org
Dec 4-23 ZOOlights
Come to the Zoo at night and its not the animals you will be amazed by instead admire the twinkling light sculptures, Santa, and falling snow. Tickets are $9 for adults and $5 for children. The event starts at 6pm at the Reid Park Zoo, 3400 E. Zoo Court. For more information and tickets visit ReidParkZoo.org
Dec. 5 Tucson Marathon Family Fitness Fest Take a break from the holiday goodies and run a 10k, 5k, or 1 mile run with the Tucson Marathon Family Fitness Fest at the University of Arizona campus. For more information and registration visit TucsonMarathon.com
Tucson Tamale & Heritage Festival The holiday season is not just candy canes and gingerbread houses, grab a sizzling tamale and join in on the tamale festival celebrating traditions and the Southwest and Mexico tradition of tamale making. The event begins at 10am at Casino Del Sol Resort, 5565 W. Valencia Rd. For more information visit CasinoDelSolResort.com
Nordic Guild Fair
Enjoy the food and crafts of the Norweigin, Sweddish, Danish, and Finnish culture. The event begins at 9am at the Desert Lutheran Church, 5360 E. Pima. For more information visit Norse-Tucson. org
Santa Lands at Pima Air and Space Museum Santa is coming to town but in style- on a helicopter that touches downs at the Pima Air & Space museum. Watch his arrival at around 10:00 am and then take photos with the man himself. For more information visit PimaAir.org
Art on Tap
Admire art at the Tucson Museum of Art and Cradt while also drinking a collection of fine brewers in Southern Arizona. A night full of delicious beers and original artwork. Tickets are $30 and include a glass and fifteen tasting tickets. The event starts at 4pm. For more information on the participating breweries and ticket purchases visit TucsonMuseumofArt.org
Dec 5, 12, 19 Holiday Lights at Tohono Chul
On the first three Saturdays of December enjoy the beautiful and luminous lights at Tohono Chul. Walk through the area with friends and family while gazing at the strung lights. Tickets for nonmembers are $16. The event starts at 5:30 pm at the Tohono Chul Park, 7366 N. Paseo del Norte. For more information visit TohonoChulPark.org
Dec. 6 La Fiesta de Guadalupe
Don’t miss the annual festival honoring Mexico’s patron saint. The event is hosted by DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun and includes, performances, mariachi bands, traditional dances, and lighting of luminarias..6300 N. Swan Road. For more information visit Degrazia.org
Dec 7 Tree Lighting at Loews Ventana Canyon Start off the season with pictures with Santa, festive treats, carols and the annual tree lighting at Cascade Lounge at Loews Ventana Canyon Resort, 7000 N. Resort Dr.
Dec 8-10 A San Xavier Christmas
Visit the San Xavier and enjoy the entertainment from the Sons of Orpheus and the Tucson Boys Chorus. Ticket prices are… Proceeds benefit the preservation and restoration of the mission. An advance ticket is required. For more information visit PatronatoSanXavier.org
Dec. 11 Christmas with the Rat Pack
Fox Tucson Theater presents performances of a Rat Pack Christams concert, featuring holiday sounds of Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr. and Dean Martin. The event begins at 7:30pm at Fox Tucson Theater, 17 W. Congress St. For tickets and more information visit FoxTucson.com
Dec. 11-13 Fourth Avenue Winter Street Fair Buy unique gifts for the holidays created by over 400 surrounding artisans. Get your holiday shopping done at the Annual fourth avenue winter street fair, also enjoy food vendors, entertainers and kid friendly activities. The street fair lasts from 10m to 6pm at 316 N. Fourth Ave. For more information visit FourthAvenue.org
The Nutcracker Ballet
Watch the traditional nutcracker performance including the toy soldiers, mice and the nutcracker, live presented by the Tucson Ballet. The play runs for a weekend at Centennial Hall, 1020 E. University Blvd. For tickets and more information visit Tucson-Theater.com
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Rustic Food Classic Drinks Live Music
Dec 12 Holly Jolly Hobble
Work off the holiday treats by running at the Southern Arizona Road Runners noncompetative three mile holiday run. Dress in festive attire and participate in the holiday activities to benefit the community food bank. For registration and more information visit azRoadRunners.org
Luminaria Nights–A Winter Celebration The Tucson Presidio will be lit up with luminarias and festive decorations. Walk and look at the lights and also enjoy a living history presentation. The lighting begins at 6pm at the Presidio San Agustin Del Tucson. Admission is $3.
Jingle Bell Run/Walk to Cure Arthritis Join in on a festive race that not only is fun but is also for a great cause. For more information and registration visit Kintera.org
Events Calendar & Hours at www.cafecoronet.com On the corner of 4th ave. & 9th st. • 520.222.9889
Dec 12-13 Southwest Nutcracker The Nutcracker has always been a holiday classic but now enjoy the story with a new twist. The show, put on by Tucson’s Regional Ballet, sets the stage in the 1880s in historical Tucson. For more information and tickets visit Tucson-Theater.com
Dec. 12-26 Winterhaven Festival of Lights Admire the neighborhood of Winterhaven as they display their annual light extravaganza and music. Walk, drive or take a hay ride through the neighborhood. It begins at 6pm each day. For more information visit winterhavenFestival.org/
Dec. 13 Tucson Boys Chorus Holiday Concert Join in on the long standing holiday tradition of listening to the Tucson boys chorus performing seasonal favorites. Tickets are $18 for general admission to the event at the UA Crowder Hall, 1017 N. Olive Road. For more information and tickets visit boyschorus.org
Sounds of Winter Concert Listen to live seasonal music performed by the Tucson Girls Chorus. Performances are at the Fox Tucson Theatre. For tickets and more information visit TucsonGirlsChorus.org
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Dec 18-20 Mercado Holiday Bazaar For those last minute gift shoppers or for anyone who wants to find something special for themselves, visit the Mercado San Agustin as it presents its annual holiday bazaar. Find handmade goods, treats and vintage treasures at Mercado San Agustin, 100 S. Avenida Del Convento Ste. For times and more information visit MercadoSanAgustin.com
Dec 19 Annual Downtown Parade of Lights Join in on the annual Parade of Lights in Tucson. Watch holiday themed floats pass by, listen to holiday classics live, and even catch a glimpse of Santa. Free to all. The event begins at 6:30pm for more information visit DownTownTucson.org
Magic of Christmas
Enjoy the magic of the Tucson Symphony Orchestra as the play holiday music. The event also features UA Dance. This year it is even going to snow in the music hall. For tickets and more information visit TucsonSymphony.org
Dec 19-22 A Tucson Pastorela
Watch the classic nativity story but instead of set in Bethlehem it is in the American Southwest. Follow the story as the characters face perils, temptations and Diablos. Presented by the award wining Borderlands Theater. For tickets and more information visit BorderlandsTheater.org
Dec 31 Tucson Jazz Festival
Start the year off with Jazz music performed by the talented Rick Brun and friends. The event takes place at the JW Marriot Star Pass Resort and Spa. For more information and tickets visit TucsonJazzFestival.org/
Dark in the Desert
Ring in the new year at the Rialto theater with psychedelic rockers XIXA and DJ Dirty Verbs. For tickets and more information visit rialtoTheatre.com
New Year’s Eve Bash at Hotel Congress Hotel Congress is sure to host a great New Year’s eve with ten bands on three stages. For tickets and more information visit HotelCongress.com
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December 2015 | ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com 47
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Putting a Twist on Holiday Tradition Share the spirit of the holidays with your neighbors at St. Andrew's. LONGEST NIGHT SERVICE: Tuesday, December 22nd, 6pm
Christmas can be a challenging time. This service is a space for sadness in the midst of cheer, with music and meditations to honor loss & grief.
BEER & CAROLS: Wednesday, December 23rd, 5:30pm at Tap & Bottle Join members of our choir in a festive sing-a-long as we usher in the season with everyone’s favorite carols.
545 S 5th Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701 . 520.622.8318 saintandrewstucson@gmail.com
48 ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com | December 2015
. www.standrewstucson.azdiocese.org
Slow Your Roll by Phoenix Michael
Take a chill pill. Unplug and unwind. Disconnect to connect. However you phrase it, the sentiment remains the same. Fatigued by extreme technological overload, and having realized that many of their shiny devices which were designed to increase and improve human communication are in fact having the opposite effect, savvy folks are stopping to smell the roses again. Our future is history. The book is the new blog. Snapchat this. Instagram that. Tag, post, tweet. Finding some relief from today’s fast-paced society of seemingly-endless status updates, the 24-hour news cycle and high-tech everything is becoming a matter of spiritual survival. If you’ve been feeling bombarded by blogs and flustered by Facebook lately, you aren’t alone. Amy Smith, self-described bookworm and owner/manager of coffee specialist Exo Roast Co., 403 N. 6th Ave., gets it. And in cooperation with craft beer and wine tasting room Tap + Bottle next door, she’s doing something about it. Tucson Analog Hour, held from 1-3 pm on the third Sunday of each month simultaneously at both locations, is former middle school teacher Smith’s response to the relentless speed of modern society. During those two hours all cafe and bar patrons are encouraged to put aside their laptops and mobile phones in favor of reading novels, drawing pictures, holding conversations and playing board games. How did such an event come about? “We both have noticed,” says Smith of herself and her husband, “how much time we’ve given to our screens. We’re dismayed,” to the point where she now appreciates “taking time off.” Although she’s never been “anti-wifi,” Smith has only one electrical outlet available for public use at Exo. Before each Tucson Analog Hour begins Smith goes around Exo’s tables and explains the purpose of the event to her customers, warning them that there will be no wireless signal for a period of time. “It’s ironic that it used to be a novelty to find the Internet” at a cafe, she says, yet now “we almost need to be forced to indulge in reading.” Designated wififree times have become “a trend in third-wave coffee shops,” according to Smith, which “feels fun.” This writer arrived at Tucson Analog Hour carrying the November 2001 issue of Mad Magazine and ordered “The Possum,” an espresso pulled in hot water with a touch of chocolate in a 4-ounce tumbler glass. Chamomile tea and pie were also on the menu. An LP record played from behind the counter. Two women sat across from each other using watercolors. Tucsonan Amber Clark, 36, was “sneaking in a few cafe sketches.” Over at Tap + Bottle, singles were making eye contact instead of checking Tinder. On the sidewalk outside, people helped themselves to complimentary reading material from the Pima County Public Library’s Bookbike. Smith credits librarian Karen Greene with providing the impetus for Tucson Analog Hour, and says that upon introduction of the concept “I loved it immediately.” Greene says she “saw it happening in a couple other cities” such as Seattle and Brooklyn, and subsequently “we started it as an experiment.” Carrying a copy of The New York Times Cross-Country Crosswords: 150 Medium-Level Puzzles, Greene says she enjoys the “juxtaposition” created by the “tech-free zone”: “You don’t expect to walk into a bar and see people reading books.” It’s refreshing, she’s noticed, to see people “coming here with a purpose,” to “turn off the tech.” Greene also approves of the Usual Gang of Idiots: “I love Mad Magazine!” Looking to go 45 rpm in a 4G world? Make a date with yourself to read! Tap + Bottle and Exo Roast Co. present Tucson Analog Hour on Sunday, December 20 from 1-3 pm at 403 N. 6th Ave. A portion of proceeds will be donated to the Southern Arizona-based literacy organization Make Way For Books. For more information, call (520) 777-4709 or (520) 344-8999. n December 2015 | ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com 49
Dec. 4, 5, 6 & 11, 12, 13 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Food, Music and Holiday Fun! $18 Adults, $9 Children, $10 Adult Members, $5 Child Members Tickets available online or in the gift shop
NEW THIS YEAR, NATURE CONNECTS®, ART WITH LEGO® BRICKS!
2150 N. Alvernon • Shuttle parking at the vacant lot at the SE corner of N. Alvernon & E. Lee St. • www.tucsonbotanical.org 50 ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com | December 2015
photos: Herb Stratford
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Right: Fox Tucson Theatre balcony view as it looked in 1999. Bottom: fireplace restoration a few years later.
The Fox Turns 10!
(Or 86, depending on what you’re counting) by Herb Stratford December 31 marks the 10th anniversary of the reopening of downtown’s premiere performance venue, the Fox Tucson Theatre. Given the dramatic transformation of downtown Tucson that’s been ongoing over the same period of time, it’s hard to believe that the Fox was home to scores of homeless people from 1974-1999 when the efforts to restore the theatre began in earnest. I had the pleasure of leading the Fox project from its inception, from the purchase of the building in 1999, to the raising of the needed funds and the oversight of the restoration and reopening in 2005, as well as managing the theatre’s operation from 2006-2008. The small group of volunteers that gathered in a conference room, in the Unisource Energy tower offices of law firm Snell & Wilmer back in 1997 knew the Fox had to be saved, but didn’t know how long it would take or how much money would be required. We had all been watching the glorious structure slowly decay from the outside, and a recent trip inside, thanks to property manager Buzz Isaacson, had spurred us to action due to the failing roof, increasing graffiti and other vandalism. A non-profit organization was set up quickly and a post office box secured to receive donations while we planned the next steps. After a year of work we had secured the purchase of the Fox for an ironic sum, $250,000. This was the same amount of money that had been quoted 10 years earlier to the then-owners as a cost to demolish the building, which thankfully had been deemed too expensive. Extensive research, fundraising and business planning was now the order of business, along with frequent volunteer workdays that saw the eventual removal of over 20 dumpsters of material such old
carpet, plumbing fixtures, stage equipment and other debris. Countless tours and special events kept the public aware of the progress in the theatre and built up interest in Tucson’s largest historic preservation project to date. Through a unique combination of; public contributions, historic tax credits, grants and loans, $14 million was secured in time for a Spring 2004 start date for construction/restoration. Rio Nuevo and City of Tucson’s financial support mandated that the Fox be open by the end of 2005, and the race was on to meet that deadline. A team of restoration experts from the acclaimed EverGreene Painting Studio of New York worked side-by-side with the construction contractor and architects to gently restore the original finishes, while updating and upgrading the Fox for modern audiences and performers all the way until the doors opened for one of the most memorable New Year’s Eve’s in Tucson memory. Tucson is one of a handful of communities across the country that have saved and restored their historic theatres. These buildings were once the center of the community for entertainment, news and community events and thanks to restoration efforts will continue to have to have an important role in cities for decades to come. Work is currently underway on an in-depth book about the restoration of the Fox that will also feature essays and stories about the project from a variety of experts who were involved. December 2015 | ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com 51
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R.I.P. Tucson Arts District Studios by Herb Stratford
A small slice of artistic heaven is scheduled to close its doors early next year after 17 years in the Warehouse District. The Tucson Arts District Studios, located at 549 North 7th Avenue, has been the home of an eclectic group of artists in a variety of genres over the years, with several tenants having been present since the very beginning. The studio closure is a classic example of gentrification that is sadly inevitable, but the longevity of this artspace is worth celebrating on the eve of its demise. The studio project was established by the Tucson Arts District Partnership (TADPI)—an organization that was formed in the late 80’s to drive redevelopment downtown through arts programs and projects, and along with other programs like the initial iteration of Downtown Saturday Night, Thursday Night Artwalks and the Artist in Residence program, laid the groundwork for the current state of Tucson’s thriving downtown. Thanks to a 50% donation of the original purchase price of $500k, this former dental parts manufacturing facility and office space was purchased in 1997 by TADPI. A short and reasonably inexpensive buildout ensued to create 8 individual studio spaces that were ready for move-in in the spring of 1998. The original roster included 2 ceramic artists, a weaver, a photographer, painters and jewelry makers. This original group became almost “like a family,” according to weaver Crane Day, the longest studio resident, who to this day has also become the archivist of the studio as well as unofficial “father figure, or as some call him, the “mother superior.” Day always treated the studio project as his “home away from home” and was often acting as the de-facto property manager scheduling maintenance and buying supplies when needed. The studio often felt like a family to the him and other artists, which also speaks to the unusually low turnover rate in tenants. One benefit of working with a tight-knit group over time is the ability to get feedback and critiques on artwork without having to go very far. The studios often hosted special events like the inaugural Urban Picnic, which was another program of TADPI that raised funds for the arts, and was also always open for the annual open studio tours each fall and spring. The main building sits on a large piece of property bounded by 7th Avenue and 5th Street, along with an older Quonset hut and garage that were also transformed into artspaces in the initial build-out on the edge of the West University Neighborhood. But what made the studios so attractive and successful is what also led to its eventual closure. The location, in the heart of the warehouse district and close to downtown only uses about 50% of the lot making it ideal for development for housing or other uses. The threat of this redevelopment has been hanging over the artists for years, and with the recent work on the final phase of the Barraza Aviation Parkway now approved and scheduled to begin construction in 2016, the property owner has finally pulled the trigger on evicting the artists. According to the dictionary, gentrification is “the process of renewal and rebuilding accompanying the influx of middle-class or affluent people into 52 ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com | December 2015
deteriorating areas that often displaces poorer residents.” It’s common to add artists to the list of those being displaced as they often are the ones taking advantage of lower rents in locations where their presence eventually make an area attractive to others. The area adjacent to the studio property is also home to several art galleries including; Davis Dominguez Gallery, Baker Hesseldenz, Wood & Pulp and Contreras Gallery, and one wonders how long the forces of capitalism will be held at bay. Can trendy retail and restaurants spaces be on the horizon that will surely wreak havoc with the quiet neighborhood? Only time will tell. On the bright side, a group of the artists being displaced are searching for a new studio space nearby that will accommodate several of them so they can continue to work together. The challenge is that such spaces are few and far between, especially in the immediate area, and for reasonable rent. Part of the stated goals of the investment in the area by TADPI was that they were helping artists get established with the idea that artists would eventually be able to own their spaces, and not be priced out. This has sadly come to pass all too frequently. Furniture maker Scott Baker, is one half of the Baker Hesseldenz business and gallery in the Tucson Warehouse building one block away, has also had a workshop at the arts district studios for the past 12 years. Baker echoed the feelings of family on site, even though his woodworking shop was in the adjacent Quonset hut. His needs for a large open space and 220 watt power make him unique among the other artists, but he seems to have found a new space fairly close by. Baker will miss the communal sense of the space, as he will now not be sharing space with any other artists, but is thankful for his run while it lasted. Tucson real estate developer Richard Studwell has owned the property for about 10 years, and is planning on creating a housing project on the site according to several sources. His time line seems to be fluid, despite promising leases to several tenants who had been on month-to-month terms for years. It now sounds like the spring eviction will finally end the property’s time as one of Tucson’s longest running art studios. As the few remaining assets of the warehouse district get transformed by developers or torn down for the expansion of city transportation projects, the locations that remain, take on an even more important role in defining us as a community. The Tucson Arts District Warehouse Studios was one of the special places that acted as a bridge in our journey to celebrate our past and our creative present, even if we don’t know where our future is taking us. n (Note: Herb Stratford worked at the Tucson Arts District Partnership from 1996-1999 and was responsible for overseeing the construction and management of the studios project from its inception.)
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film Z
Jodoworsky’s Dune
Star Wars or Bust?
What to Watch, Until You Get a Chance To See The New Film by Herb Stratford Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the past 12 months, you know that a new Star Wars movie is set to debut worldwide on December 17. As expected, many of the screenings have been sold out for weeks in advance, or will do so the day of the show. There are high hopes for this latest installment in the series, as it promises to deliver the goods unlike the much-maligned prequels, but there are also a lot of other amazing sci-fi films that have a much lower profile just waiting to be discovered, if you don’t have a ticket or want to avoid the crowd for a few weeks. We’ve compiled a list of some that you may or may not have seen before, and where you can find them until you get to Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
Solaris This 2002 version of the Stanislaw Lem novel about several space station occupants orbiting a mysterious planet that causes them to go slowly insane, got mixed reviews, but many found it more accessible than the original 1972 Russian version. Directed by Steven Soderbergh, and starring George Clooney and Natascha McElhone, this film is amazing visually and truly thought provoking. (Available on iTunes)
Jodoworsky’s Dune This documentary, from 2012 was widely praised as it made its way on the international festival circuit, but received just a limited theatrical run. It tells the story of the aborted film version of the masterful 1965 Frank Herbert sci-fi novel Dune by radical filmmaker Alejandro Jodoworsky. With a trippy cast that was to include Mick Jagger, Orson Wells and Salvador Dali, along with visuals inspired by H.R. Giger (of “Alien” fame), this film a fascinating look at what could have been, had the film moved into production. (Available on iTunes)
Galaxy Quest Great sci-fi films are usually not great comedies too, but Galaxy Quest which was released on Christmas day 1999, is in a comedy class all by itself. With
a stellar cast that includes Tim Allen, Alan Rickman, Sigourney Weaver, Sam Rockwell and Tony Shalhoub, this film is the perfect send-up of traditional science fiction standards like the original Star Trek series and B-films of the 50’s. The film follows a hapless crew of an old canceled sci-fi TV series, that suddenly finds themselves in space. Endlessly quotable and hilarious, this one is a real keeper. (Available on Netflix)
When Worlds Collide Back in 1951, science fiction films had a radically different look and feel, and this classic melding of the end-of-the-world disaster film and science fiction fantasy is a real delight. When Earth must be evacuated due to an eminent collision with a newly discovered planet, tension mounts as a select group of earthlings wait to find out who will win the lottery to have a seat on the giant space ark that’s been secretly under construction. With an ill-fated love story, great special effects and models, this film still stands the test of time. (Available on Amazon Video)
Quark Back in 1977-78, hoping to capitalize on the wild success of Star Wars, NBC aired a truly quirky sci-fi series penned by comedian Buck Henry entitled Quark. The show followed the exploits of an interstellar garbage truck and its crew in the year 2226. Richard Benjamin led an otherwise below-the-radar cast in this delightful, funny and short-lived sitcom. (Available on DVD from Amazon) And let’s not forget other greats like the horror/Sci-Fi hybrid Sunshine (2007), the much-loved TV & film combo Firefly/Serenity (2002 & 2005) and Disney’s answer to the late 70’s Star Wars/Star Trek successes, The Black Hole (1979), if you really want to spend some time in another world. So, if you can’t get to Star Wars: The Force Awakens, load these films into your Amazon Video, Netflix, or iTunes queue. n December 2015 | ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com 55
Easy Parking. Easier Payment.
Get 10% more value at parking meters with the new Park Smart card The new Park Smart card is your very own parking card, where you store your own parking value and receive 10% free parking value from Park Tucson. Park Smart cards can be used on all smart parking meters located in Downtown, around 4th Avenue, Main Gate Square, near the UA Eller College, and south of the UA campus. Pick up your own Park Smart card at the Park Tucson office for just $5 and immediately start receiving 10% additional parking value when you load a balance on the card. The Park Tucson office is located on the ground floor of the Pennington Street Garage at 110 E. Pennington Street. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 7:45am to 5:15pm. For more information, visit www.ParkTucson.com or call 520.791.5071.
Visit ParkTucson.com for info 56 ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com | December 2015
December 2015 | ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com 57
Z film
Macbeth
Loft Cinema Delivers Holiday Film Gifts by Herb Stratford
In the spirit of giving this month, the Loft Cinema again has a great mix of films for you to escape to when you’ve had enough of the holidays or…. your family. In addition to a special screening of the holiday classic Elf on December 12, this month’s lineup features some great documentaries and narrative features. For the most current listing of all films showing this month and specific show times, visit LoftCinema.com.
Janis: Little Girl Blue (12/4) This riveting and heartbreaking documentary, from director Amy Berg (West of Memphis), perfectly captures the tragic rise and fall of one of America’s most talented singers. With unprecedented access to family photos and letters, the film explores Janis’ story and will remind you why there will never be another artist like her.
The Resurrection of Jake The Snake (12/4) Fans of WWE wrestling are in for an eye-opening ride with this new documentary about one of the wrestling leagues’ marquee stars, Jake the Snake Roberts. The film premiered at the annual Slamdance film festival last January, and has been quietly building momentum ever since, thanks to its honest, and at times bittersweet, look at stardom, addiction and redemption. Who would have thought that a movie about a wrestler could teach us so much about the human spirit.
Heart of A Dog (12/4) From acclaimed artist/musician/filmmaker Laurie Anderson, comes this wildly entertaining, brilliant and thought-provoking experimental film on the nature of truth, information, love, loss and life. Hauntingly beautiful and quite frankly mesmerizing, this is a not-to-miss film, and one of the best things I’ve seen all year.
Don Verdean (12/11) From the creators of the comedy gems Napoleon Dynamite and Nacho Libre, comes a the film about a sketchy biblical archaeologist (Don Verdean) and his eclectic team. Chaos and comedy ensue as they “find” and deliver rare historical items to the highest bidder. Sam Rockwell is great as Verdean, and while the film is not as quotable or memorable as “Dynamite,” it’s a pretty fun ride.
Macbeth (12/18)
58 ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com | December 2015
The tale of ambition, murder and loss set in the Scottish Highlands is on the big screen this month with a stellar cast including Michael Fassbender and Marion Cotillard from Australian director, Justin Kurzel. Sweeping and grand in scale and visual ambition, this version is perfect for the big screen and its cast delivers engrossing performances that bring this timeless story to life for a new audience.
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