FM Spotlight Magazine March 2012

INSIDE: BLUE MAN GROUP // SOVEREIGN SECT // THE AREA’S BEST CALENDAR

2 fmspotlight.com March 2012


O National Youth Art MonthAll MonthPlains Art Museum During the entire month of March the Plains Art Museum will be celebrating Youth Art Month by displaying children’s art from around the region.

O365 Days to 50 & The sheARTS Project1st - 26th from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sundays: Noon - 5 p.m.Hjemkomst CenterTwo exhibits, happening now, 365 Days to 50 and The sheARTS Project: Art Hats for Breast Cancer Awareness, showcase how art heals the soul in times of life’s challenges. Both projects were created by local artist and designer, Claudia M. Pratt, who has faced breast cancer head-on over the last five years.

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eOld Man Winter Roots and Brew Fest 20123rd at NoonThe VenueFeaturing: Buddy Guy, Quinn Sullivan, Johnson Family Band, and more. Music starts at 1 p.m. 21+ welcome. $19 general admission, $29 reserved seating.

HFM Derby Girls3rd at 7 p.m.Fargo Civic CenterWatch the FMDG travel teams battle it out against the visiting teams. The Furies take on the Grand Rapids Iron Maidens followed by the Northern Pains versus the Sioux City Roller Dames. These are two bouts you DON’T want to miss.

OJames Sewell Ballet and the Arsenal Trio3rd at 7:30 p.m.Hansen Theatre (MSUM)MSUM’s Cheryl Nelson Lossett Performing Arts Series brings the James Sewell Ballet to the community featuring choreography to Mendelssohn’s Piano Trio and new work by Sewell. The ballet also features the Aresenal Trio (violinist, pianist and cellist). Purchase tickets at the door or for more info visit: mnstate.edu/perform.

HSportman’s Boat, Camp-ing and Vacation Show4th at 10 a.m.FargodomeThis is your last day to check out North Dakota’s largest sports show. This show is rated one of the most successful customer trade shows in the Northwest.

H School Spirit Artist Reception4th at 1:30 p.m.Plains Art MuseumAn artist reception for students, friends,and family with entertainment by local students, art-making activi-ties, light refreshments, and fabulous student art from across the region.

ePercussion Ensemble 6th at 7:30 p.m.Festival Concert Hall NDSUFree and open to the public.

EVENTSYOUR MONTHLY RESOURCE FOR THE BEST EVENTS IN FARGO-MOORHEAD

MARCH 2012

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n Fargo Film Festival6th - 10th Fargo TheatreAn international festival featuring independent, silent and classic films. For more information visit www.fargofilmfestival.org.

n Clue: The Musical7th – 10th at 7:30 p.m. and 11th at 2 p.m.The Stage at Island Park The audience gets to play along as the familiar characters from the Parker Brothers’ board game sing and dance their way to discovering the killer.

OGirls Night Out8th at 4 p.m.The Crystal Ballroom at the RamadaA home, beauty and fashion expo.

n Don Hertzfeldt8th at 7 p.m.Fargo TheatreAcademy Award-nominee animator, Don Hertzfeldt, will appear in person for the Fargo Film Festival. Hertzfeldt has also been selected as the 2012

Fargo Film Festival’s Ted M. Larson Award recipient.

O1st Annual Bunny Lebowski Pro-Am Invitational8th at 9:30 p.m.All-Star BowlJoin the Fargo Film Festival for an event that will include a Big Lebowski-themed costume contest, a Lebowski/Coen-focused trivia contest, and a Lebowski edition of the Fargo Film Festival’s popular 2-Minute Movie Contest. A limited number of tickets are available for $10 per person and may be purchased in advance at the Fargo Theatre. Ticket price includes shoe rental and bowling. The event is open to all ages.

H ND Class A State Basketball 8th - 10th

FargodomeFor more information go to the North Dakota High School Activities Association website, www.ndhsaa.com.

eSinger Songwriter SnoCase9th at 7:30 p.m.Red Raven Espresso ParlorCome out to hear some local musicians: Matt Florence, Sarah Bomb, Molly McLain, Tom Peckskamp and the Cold Bright. eDon Williams9th at 8 p.m.Shooting Star CasinoRecently inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2010, Don “The Gentle Giant” Williams is bringing his talents to the Shooting Star stage. With 17 Number One hits, including “Tulsa Time,” “I Believe in You” and “You’re My Best Friend,” this “Good Ole Boy” is sure to put on a “Cracker Jack” of a show. Tickets start at $20. More info visit: www.starcasino.com.

n Fargo Film Festival Two Minute Movie Contest9th at 9:30 p.m.

Fargo TheatreEnjoy the entrees of the popular two minute movie contest. People from around the area make a short movie that’s quick and to the point.

Taste of Home Cooking Show10th at 3 p.m.Ramada Plaza SuitesShopping, food and wine sampling. Gift bags and door prizes given away throughout the night.

OLadies Night10th and 31st at 10 p.m.RadissonLadies enjoy 1/2 price top shelf cocktails at this “Sophisticated Saturday.”

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EVENTS


HIce Revue 10th - 11thFargo ColiseumAt the end of each year’s skating season, students from each of the Park District classes present an Ice Skating Revue. 10th at 7 p.m. and the11th at 2 p.m.

eBen’s Farewell / 8th Street String Quartet 11th at 2 p.m First Presbyterian ChurchConcertmaster of the FM Symphony, Ben Sung, started the 8th Street String Quartet. They will be performing their final performance as part of the Chamber Music Series.

eConcordia Choir Home Concert 11th at 4 p.m.Concordia Main Gym

HMen’s Roller Derby11th at 6:30 p.m.SkatelandHipcheck Murphys vs. Quad Brawlers.

eJavier Colon13th at 8 p.m.Fargo Theatre

Javier Colon, winner of NBC’s The Voice, will be performing at the Fargo Theatre. Tickets vary from $27.50 to $35.50.

eMetropolitan Opera – Ernani

14th at 6:30 p.m.Marcus Century 10

OUrban Overture “Symphony 101”14th at 5:30 p.m.Studio 222With a membership to this free group you will be able to attend free parties at Studio 222 and learn what symphony’s are all about, meet friends, network and enjoy some free wine tastings. A great perk is the $10 symphony tickets you can buy

with a membership. Register online at www.fmsymphony.org.

OShips of the Desert15th at 3:15 p.m.Red River ZooLearn about camels and why they are known as “ships of the desert.”

eJames Otto 16th at 8 p.m.Dakota Magic CasinoGet up close and personal with award winning country star, James Otto. Tickets start at $25. More info visit: www.dakotamagic.com.

OMoorhead Ice Show16th - 18thMoorhead Sports CenterSkaters who participate in Moorhead Parks and Recrea-tion skating programs present their annual Ice Show! Tickets are available at the door an hour before show time. 16th and 17th at 7 p.m. and 18th at 1 p.m.

OBouncin’ Bash & More16th – 17th Veterans Memorial ArenaObstacle courses, giant slides, bouncy castles, Volcano Climb, Kiddie Land, laser tag, concessions and more. Great for families and open to all ages. Kids 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Cost: $8 - wristband. Hours: 16th: 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.; 17th: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

hJay and Silent Bob6th at 8 p.m.Fargo TheatreJay and Silent Bob are the iconic characters in Kevin Smith’s movies like “Clerks,” “Mallrats,” “Chasing Amy,” “Dogma,” “Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back” and “Clerks 2.” Reserved seating costs $35 and $45; fees may apply. For more information visit www.jadepresents.com

EVENTS

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Pop Goes the Rock by Cirque Dreams14th at 7:30 p.m.FargodomePop Goes the Rock by Cirque Dreams is a roller–coaster ride of Twists, Turns and Wows … a new musical of unexpected sights and sounds that explode on stage like a Rock n’ Roll party set in a carnival funhouse. Re-live popular and timeless tunes with a kaleidoscope of Cirque Dreams talent, extravagant costumes and theatrical mayhem. Ticket Prices: $54, $41.50 and $26.50


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OPredator-Prey 17th at 2 p.m.Red River ZooDid you know some animals are vegetarians? Within the food chain there are carnivores, omnivores, herbivores, and more. Can one live without the other? Examine how all are linked in the delicate circle of life. Cost: $5 - RRZ members, $7.50 - non-members.

nRavel, Hayden and Bartok17th - 18th at 8 p.m. and 2 p.m.NDSU Festival Concert HallThis concert celebrates the talents and accomplishments of musicians of the Fargo-Moorhead Symphony.

HCeltic Festival 17th at 10 a.m. Hjemkomst Center The Celtic Festival celebrates the rich cultures of the seven Celtic nations featuring the intriguing history, arts and traditions of Brittany (France), Cornwall (UK), Isle of Man, Galicia (Spain), Ireland and Northern Ireland (UK), Scotland (UK) and Wales (UK). .

OSt. Patrick’s Day Parade17th at 3 p.m. Downtown FargoEntry forms available at fmdowntown.com.

HSt. Patrick’s Day 5K Run17th at 3 p.m.Downtown FargoSt. Patrick’s 5K for the FM area. Register online ($25) by February 29 to be guaranteed a long-sleeve shirt. Race day registration is 12:30 - 2 p.m. with a fee of $35. Packet pick-up from 12:30 - 2:30 p.m. on Saturday March 17 at The Great Northern Bicycle Company. Results will be posted on www.pickleevents.com.

HFM Derby Girls Double Header17th at 7 p.m.Fargo Civic CenterThe Fighting Suzies face off against the Monkey Wenches and the Haute Dishes take on Battlescar Galactica.

OSt. Patrick’s Day Get Lucky Bash17th at 9:30 p.m. The Venue$500 cash give away inside one box of Lucky Charms. 21+ welcome, no cover.

OAntique & Collectible Show17th and 18th, all day long Moorhead Center Mall

OFM Crusaders Motorcycle Club 37th Annual Motorcycle Show & Party17th - 18thThe RamadaMore info visit: www.fmcrusadersmc.com

HCosmic Bowling18th at 1 p.m.West Acres BowlEnjoy bowling at its wildest. Music and lights will add to the party atmosphere. Prizes will be given away throughout the event. Register early. Limited spots available. Fee: $8 per person (groups of 4 or 5 preferred). More info: www.fargoparks.com.

OBirdhouses19th - Apr. 2nd Plains Art MuseumThe Plains Art Museum will display innovative birdhouse designs of second-year NDSU architecture students.

EVENTS


eUG Unplugged21st at 8 p.m.CMU Underground at MSUMMSUM’s annual acoustic music competition sponsored by the Campus Activities Board. Free and open to the public.

HNDSU Swing Night22nd at 7 p.m.MU Great Plains BallroomLittle Donnie and the Groovetones will be performing so you can dance

the night away.

eNunsense22nd – 25thThe Stage at Island ParkWhen the Little Sisters of Hoboken discover that their cook, Sister Julia, Child of God, accidentally poisoned 52 of the sisters, they must raise money fast for the

burials. Reverend Mother Regina, a former circus performer, and her crazy flock of nuns, decide to put on a variety show in the school gym. Shows: Thur-Sat 7:30 p.m., Sun: 2 p.m.

OPictures with the Easter Bunny23rd - Apr. 7thWest Acres MallThe Easter Bunny will be available for photos in the Macy’s court.

H Fargo Force vs. Des Moines23rd at 7:35 p.m.Scheels Arena

eTroubadour23rd at 9 p.m.The VenueCadillac Ranch (The Hub)

eVince Gill23rd at 8 p.m.Shooting Star CasinoIt’s only fitting to call country singer Vince Gill “neotraditional” because of his unique sound that’s reminiscent of mid-1900s country music. His sound, along with his multi-instrumental talent, has

earned him many prestigious honors, including 27 Grammy Awards, 18 CMA Awards and even a place in the Country Music Hall of Fame. Tickets start at $40. More info visit: www.starcasino.com.

HFargo Force vs. Des Moines24th at 7:05 p.m.Scheels Arena

eMSUM’s Percussion Concert24th at 7:30p.m.MSUM Hansen Theatre

OEl Zagel Shrine Circus24th - 25thFargodome High-wire and Trapeze Acts, Clowns, Bengal Tigers and

the Shrine Circus Elephants. Advanced Tickets: General Admission - $11 Reserved - $14Day of Show - General Admission - $13 Reserved - $16

H Twin Arrows 3D Archery Shoot24th - 25thWest Fargo Memorial ArenaRound will be 50 Rinehart targets. Concession available. 24th: 8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. 25th: 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.For more info call 701.733.0123.

HNPC Upper Midwest Bodybuilding Competition24th at 6 p.m.NDSU Festival HallBecome motivated to workout by watching these boybuilders show off their muscles. Pre-judging begins at 9 a.m. on Sat. the 24th. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for the show. Tickets bought before the day of the show are $25 for main floor or $20 for balcony.

HFargo Force vs. Des Moines24th at 7:05 p.m.Scheels Arena

Jim Gaffigan19th at 7 p.m.Fargo Civic CenterGaffigan has done guest appearances in “Flight of the Conchords” and “Bored to Death” and had movie roles in “Going the Distance,” “Away We Go” and “It’s Kind of a Funny Story.”

EVENTS

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Elton John 24th at 8 p.m.Ralph Engelstad ArenaThis will be Elton John’s first appearance in Grand Forks. He will be performing some of his hits from his past five decades of performing.


eSenior Honor Concert24th at 7:30 p.m.Concordia Main Gym

eThree Choirs Concert25th at 4 p.m.Concordia Main Gym

eNicholaus Meyer, Percussion 27th at 7:30 p.m.Beckwith Recital HallThis graduate recital is free and open to the public.

eBrass Chamber Night28th at 7:30 p.m. Beckwith Recital Hall

eFaculty Recital: Virginia Sublett, soprano 30th at 7:30 p.m.Beckwith Recital Hall

HPRCA Rodeo30th – 31st at 7:30 p.m.Fargodome Check out live rodeo excitement. General admission: adult $15, Kids (2-12) $7.50. More info visit www.fargodome.com

OTri-College Swing Dance Club30th at 7 p.m.MSUM CMU UndergroundAnyone is welcome to this swing dance club. This free event teaches East Coast Swing, Lindy Hop, Charleston, Balboa and Drag Blues. Intermediate lessons begin at 7 p.m. and beginner lessons at 8 p.m.

eDay of Percussion Performance31st at 4 p.m. at 8 a.m.Memorial Auditorium

OCelebration of Nations31st at 4 p.m.MSUM CMU BallroomThis annual event at MSUM features International students showcasing their countries art, clothing, good, dances and much more. Children’s world will begin at 4 p.m. and the opening ceremony will start at 6:30 p.m.

HMAX Fights 12: Proving Grounds 31st at 7 p.m. The Venue$20 advance general admis-sion$25 day of admissionFor ringside and bleacher seats, call 701.367.6592.

eTogether We Rise Benefit Concert31st at 9 p.m.Fargo VFWThis will be a concert to help raise money to support “To-gether We Rise,” a non-profit dedicated to improving the lives of foster children across the country.

EVENTS

For event information visit: fmspotlight.com

To submit your own event e-mail [email protected].

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80YEARS OF MUSIC

In 1931, when the FM Symphony got its start, you could buy a new house for $6,500, gas cost 10 cents per gallon and a new car cost $600. Though a lot has

changed over the past 80 years, the FM Symphony has re-mained consistent by providing Fargo-Moorhead with the best possible music.

The FM Symphony orchestra brings crescendos and concertos into its 80th season

WWW.FMSYMPHONY.ORG


According to executive director, Linda Boyd Coates, the FM Symphony is marking its 80th season with some

big changes and plans for the future. Music director, Bernard Rubenstein, who has been the director of the symphony for the past nine years, is stepping down at the end of this season. According to Coates, Rubenstein has organized the concerts this season to showcase the talent of the sym-phony and show-off how far the symphony has come under his direction.

With the retirement of Rubenstein comes the search for a new music director. The FM Symphony received hundreds of ap-plications from across the world and has narrowed the selection to five canidates. Next season, there will be five concerts and a different director will direct each concert, creating as Coates describes, “A kind of American Idol audition process.” From there a committee will select the next director.

The symphony is a full orchestra with ap-proximately 75 musicians from throughout the community. Another tradition of the FM Symphony is the “Young Artist Solo Com-petition.” Each year the program features a local high school musician to spotlight during a concert with a solo. This year Jenny Sun from Fargo South will be highlighted during the March 17 and 18 concerts.

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FM SYMPHONY FOR BEGINNERS• The Wednesday before every concert there is a Urban Overtures

party at Studio 222. There will be free wine and hors d’oeuvres as well as a lecture about the concert.

• Dress at the FM Symphony ranges from tuxedos to blue jeans. Dress up for a night out or wear what you wore to work. It’s up to you.

• Forty-fiveminutesbeforetheconcertbeginstheMusicDirectorwillgive a lecture on what to expect from the concert and what to listen for.Thesetalksareverybeneficialforpeoplewhohaveneverbeentothe symphony.

AlotofpeoplearescaredtogototheirfirstsymphonybuthavenofearbecauseFM Spotlight is here to help. Follow these tips and you’ll appear to be a FM Symphony patron.

Tickets for the FM Symphony can be purchased at

www.fmsymphony.org or by callingtheboxofficeat

701-478-3676


MARCH FM SYMPHONYRAVEL, HAYDN AND BARTOK March 17 at 8 p.m., March 18 at 2 p.m.NDSU Festival Concert Hall

BEN’S FAREWELL / 8TH STREET STRING QUARTET March 11 at 2 p.mFirst Presbyterian Church

MUSIC FOR THE HEARTMarch 8 and 22 at noonSanford Health on Broadway

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JT CIGARRO3rd - Feedback9th, 10th - Chester Bay13th - Open Mic Night14th - Dirty Word16th - DJ Fossa17th - The Authors23rd, 24th - Sell Out Stereo27th - Open Mic Night30th - Back For More31st - Skyline

LUCKY’s 132nd - Sideline3rd - Acoustic Addiction9th, 10th - Madd Hatter16th - Chase Burkhart17th - Skooba23rd - Any Day Now24th - Mick Klein30th - The Dead Beats31st - Generator

O’LEARY’S2nd, 3rd - The Fillers9th - Skyline16th - Jeez Loueez23rd - 8th Hour30th, 31st - Tune In Tokyo

HODO1st - Heavy is Bad8th - D Mills & The Thrills12th - Tom and Diane15th - Evergreen Grass Band22nd - Eric Koskinen and Molly Maher29th - Two Many Banjos

THE AQUARIUM6th - Blind Pilot9th - Soap with O’fosho10th - Sean Anonymous12th - Electric Six13th - Comeback Kid & Living with Lions28th - The Wooden Sky31st - Banner Pilot

HUB3rd - Buddy Guy8th - 24Seven9th - October Road15th - Jeez Loueez16th - BoomTown22nd - 8th Hour23rd - Troubadour29th - Skyline

M&J SALOON2nd, 3rd - 8th Hour23rd, 24th - Carmen The Cactus30th, 31st - 24Seven

CHUMLEY’S10th - Jeez Loueez


WINDBREAK4th - 8th Hour8th, 9th - Tripwire16th - Our Last Secret17th - Face For Radio, Jeez Loueez22nd - 24Seven24th, 25th - Face For Radio31st - October Road

SPIRITS LOUNGE2nd, 3rd - Jeez Loueez9th, 10th - Fuse16th, 17th - Ugly Stick23rd, 24th - The S.O.L. Band30th, 31st - Triple Play

RICKS2nd, 3rd - Face for Radio10th - S.O.P.16th, 17th - Double Forte30th, 31st - Relevant

RED RAVEN 10th - John Bondy’s Moving Away Show: The One Times, JOEge w BOSCH, Remember Me, Gypsy Heart

MAPLETON HAGGES2nd, 3rd - The Roosters10th - Dead Beats16th, 17th - Mother Shipton24th - Blues Tonic

SIDESTREET3rd - Viva La Vox & Rachel Brook10th - The Dirty Hurlers with Less Than Organic

SPECKS BAR2nd, 3rd - Liquor Up8th, 9th - Smoking Gun15th, 16th - Flashback30th, 31st - Fire Water Burn

VFW (Downtown)9th - Ciro & Topher 10th - Moody River Band16th - Anthony Chaput17th - The Dirty Hurlers23rd - 3rd & Main

BIG D’s2nd, 3rd - Skyline9th - Good for Gary10th - Cherry Gun16th - Epic Five17th - Shaylo Lee & The Rush River23rd - October Road24th - Brat Pack Radio30th, 31st - Tripwire

NESTOR24th - Cappadonna (of the Wu Tang Clan)

RADISSON10th, 31st - DJ Nola16th - Front Fenders

THE NEW DIRECTION17th - Bitedown, Remiss, Gradu-ating Summer 18th - Aseethe20th - Lighthouses & Tierra Park

VFW (West Fargo)2nd, 3rd - Billy D and the Crystals9th, 10th - Front Fenders16th, 17th - 24Seven23th, 24th - Silverado30th, 31st - Troubadour

DEMPSEY’S9th - The Fillers23rd - The San Haven Chuckle

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BLUE MAN GROUP // APRIL 3rd and 4th // FARGODOME

B E H I N DB L U EG U Y S

A LOOK BEHIND THE SCENES OF BLUE MAN GROUPCombine percussion, science, humor, technology, lights, paint and three mysterious blue guys who never utter a word and you’ve got Blue Man Group. A theatrical group whose founding roots date back to the 1987 New York City scene, Blue Man Group has become such a suc-cess that parent company, Blue Man Productions, now produces shows on a world-wide level. FM Spotlight brings you an exclusive interview with Blue Man, Kalen Allmandinger, for a rare glimpse at one of the guys behind the blue.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Paul Kolnik34 fmspotlight.com March 2012

has performed with Blue Man Group all over the world. He studied acting at Chicago College of Performing Arts where he worked with Looking Glass, About Face and Chicago Shakespeare Theatre company.

KALEN ALLMANDINGER

B E H I N DB L U EG U Y S

PHOTOGRAPHY: Paul Kolnik35

Q&AWITH

KALEN ALLMANDINGER

SPOTLIGHT: Where are you at right now?Little Rock, Arkansas. We’re down here for a show this week.

SPOTLIGHT: I bet the weather down there is a bit nicer than Fargo.Yeah, it’s not too bad down here.

SPOTLIGHT: So where are you originally from, where’d you grow up?I grew up in Iowa, around the Quad Cities, and I went to high school in Davenport. Sort of a farming community.

SPOTLIGHT: Are you married, have kids?I’m married and actually my wife travels around with Blue Man Group and helps sell our merchandise. It’s nice to be able to travel with her.

SPOTLIGHT: What do you do during your time off?It usually varies. Last summer we had a lot of shows but I try to spend time with my family and travel to Iowa to see them.

SPOTLIGHT: How long have you been perform-ing with Blue Man Group?Let’s see…it’s been about eleven years now. I took some time off for a little while but for the most part I’ve been perform-ing with Blue Man for eleven years.

SPOTLIGHT: Where has touring taken you?I’ve been to a lot of places all around the world. I started here in the states in Boston for two years. I’ve been everywhere from Houston to Chicago, did shows in London and Berlin. Also spent a year in Tokyo.

SPOTLIGHT: How was Tokyo?It was great and I loved it…met a lot of friends over there. I would’ve stayed in Tokyo longer but I really needed a break from the show.

SPOTLIGHT: So right now you’re touring around North America?Yes. We’re in Little Rock, Arkansas right now. We usually stay about a week at each place we travel to. We’re about three-quarters of the way through this tour. So a few more stops, head up to Canada and then we’ll be making our way to Fargo.

SPOTLIGHT: Have you ever been to Fargo?I haven’t yet, but I’ve been to Grand Forks.


SPOTLIGHT: Grand Forks? Pfshhh…what pops into mind when you hear the name Fargo?Well…[pause]…I guess I think of Grand Forks [laughing], so that’s really the only association I have with the area. But, hearing Fargo, every once in a while an image of Francis McDormand pops into my head too.

SPOTLIGHT: [Laughing] That’s a great movie, isn’t it?Yeah, it really is. I guess that area around Fargo certainly has a different feel to it. I’ve spent time in Minnesota and I actually lived in Wisconsin for a while – right in the middle of the state where it’s sort of woodsy and all carved out by topography and glaciers [pause] and there are those long, cold winters. I really enjoyed being up there though. The area’s almost like a distant relative.

SPOTLIGHT: Well,you’realreadybluesoyou’dfitwellinto the Fargo scene. Corny joke.[Laughs.]

SPOTLIGHT: So what type of show are you putting on at the Fargodome?This show is its own beast. We’ve got some musical numbers that are original to when Blue Man Group first started but we also have some slight variations. It’s nice touring this show because the size of where we perform is in between. Some places have just 300 seats and the stage and others are more like big rock concerts with a larger audience. This show has the essence of all of them – the spectacle and flash stimulation, huge video elements, visceral music. We do have quieter and more intimate moments and we pull people out of the crowd.

SPOTLIGHT: Pulling people out of the crowd! It’s not like other shows where there’s that sort of distance between actors on stage and a crowd watching.Yes! And for us the most satisfying parts to the show is being able to have that direct connection with the audience. The audience influences how the show goes. Basically there’s no “fourth wall” and each Blue Man is not in some other place or pretending to be in some other setting…he’s right there in that theatre. PH

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SPOTLIGHT: Doesn’t that stuff get hot?It gets very hot. And the show is very physical and our storytelling is done through just actions, since it’s not verbal. It gets hot but we have a lot of stamina.

SPOTLIGHT: Ever had any big disasters while performing?One of the advantages to these shows is, because we don’t have any lines, if something goes wrong we don’t have to scramble to make something up on the spot. The story is that these characters are working together to make a connection with the audience – it’s a share of experiences. In that form

SPOTLIGHT: What’s also crazy is that your show is based on a lot of nonverbal communication, so a Blue Mannevertalks.Isitdifficulttocommunicatewiththe audience?When you’re first hired in the position you learn the characteris-tics and what makes the character…basically how to be a Blue Man. Really, a Blue Man consists of honesty. You don’t say any-thing, but if you’re feeling that something is real it’s all circumstan-tial and what the character finds himself in. If you [the audience member] see an honest reaction you can fill in the blanks and the words the Blue Man would be saying if he was talking. If we show we are truthfully affected by them [the audience] then you can trust it will read. Facial expressions are the deadpan and, for us, it all comes down to the eyes. The truth is there even though there’s sort of a mystery behind each Blue Man.

SPOTLIGHT: So why blue? Why not green or red? Well, blue is kind of a beautiful color. We’re a rich, deep cobalt blue. Yves Klein [French artist] was also influential. The shades he used to paint monochromatic paintings… canvases painted in blue, some with textures and patterns…sometimes just a blue can-vas. That was part of the inspiration. If we were green people would think aliens, red and people would think angry. Blue is sort of a neutral color, like the ocean.

SPOTLIGHT: What is the blue? Is it paint?Yes, it’s grease paint put on heavy and thick – like theatrical makeup like a clown’s, but thicker.

SPOTLIGHT: What about your hair?We have bald caps we put on. We slap on the paint and it stays wet.

SPOTLIGHT: So if someone touched your face they’d have blue all over?Yes.

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they have success even through their failures and those failures are usually written into the show. One character fails and it’s fun to watch the struggle. If something actually does go wrong all we have to do is stay in character and sort of roll with it. Anything can happen so it’s not a surprise and we embrace that. It’s so interactive that 90% of the time it [the show] happens without anything going wrong. But sometimes when we do bring people on stage there can be some issues. But basically, for the structure of the show, we get from point A to B to C and the way we do that is based on the performers of that week and the audience. To sum it up, we embrace the chaos.

SPOTLIGHT: Any pre-show rituals? No, I wouldn’t say I have any superstitions or practices or even any sacred warm ups or rituals. I like to get warmed up and to get the blood flowing we play a lot of percussion so I focus on warm-ing up the hands. We really try to act like maniacs and get loose and out of our heads to get into the right mindset.

For tickets and more information go to www.fargodome.com

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FILMFARGO

FESTIVAL

MARCH 6 - 10// FARGO THEATREThis month the Fargo Film Festival is celebrating its 12th yearatthehistoricFargoTheatre.Thisfivedaymovie-packed event that got its start in March of 2000 has been on the rise in popularity. Jam-packed with celebrity ap-pearances, informational and provocative presentations andawidevarietyoffilmcategories,thisisonefilmfestival movie lovers won’t want to miss.

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Executive Director of the Fargo Theatre, Beck, is excited to play a part in directing and coordinating

the Fargo Film Festival.

EMILY BECK

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Once again the Far-go Film Festival is bringing first class movies to

the area. Between March 6 and 10 the Fargo Theatre will show more than 100 movies from seven differ-ent categories that range from animations to docu-mentaries.

The entertainment doesn’t end with the movies. There will be a slew of speakers at the festival in-cluding “Mad Men” actor, Rich Sommer, and also Jay and Silent Bob as the headlining speakers at 8 p.m. on March 6.This year the Fargo Film Festival will feature the

first Fargo Lebowski Fest. This fest, which will fea-ture all things related to the film “The Big Lebows-ki,” will take place at 9:30 p.m. at All-Star Bowl in Moorhead. It will feature a Big Lebowski-themed costume contest, Lebows-ki trivia contest and much more.

Jay and Silent Bob, the iconic characters in Kevin Smith’s movies “Clerks,” “Mallrats,” “Chasing Amy,” “Dogma,” “Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back” and “Clerks 2” will kick off the opening night of the 2012 Fargo Film Festival at 8 p.m. on March 6 at the Fargo Theatre.

Jay and Silent Bob

The “2-Minute Movie Contest” is a competitive contest that features movies no longer than two minutes in length. Films are submitted for thecompetitionandselectedbyapaneloffilmfestival judges.

2 Minute Movie Contest

March 6th

March 9th


There are seven categories that submissions could be entered into: anima-tion, documentary short or feature, experimental, narrative short or feature and student. This year the festival received a record 150+ submissions.Films will begin showing at 9 a.m. everyday of the

Fargo Film Festival and will run in both theatres until the evening when the smaller theatre will show its regularly scheduled programming.This year the festival will feature three Oscar nomi-nated short films and sev-eral films from MSUM film students.

Tickets to the Fargo Film Festival can be pur-chased by contacting the Fargo Theatre box office by calling 701-239-8385.

For more information visit the Fargo Film Fes-tival’s website, www.far-gofilmfestival.com.

On March 8th from 9:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. join the Fargo Film Festival at Moorhead’s All-Star Bowl. The event will include a Big Lebowski-themed costume contest, a Lebowski/Coen-focused trivia contest and a Lebowski edition of the Fargo Film Festival’s popular 2-Minute Movie Contest.

Lebowski Bowling

Sommer received a BA in Theatre Arts from Concordia College in Moorhead and an MFA in Acting from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland. Best known for his role as Harry Crane on AMC’s multiple Emmy and Golden Globe-winning show “Mad Men,” Sommer has alsoappearedon“TheOffice,”“Law&Order”and starred as Anne Hathaway’s drinking buddy, Doug, in “The Devil Wears Prada.”

Rich Sommer

March 10th

March 8th

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There’s more to the Fargo Moorhead Derby Girls than quad skates, hip checks and fast skaters. In fact, there’s an entire busi-ness behind this skater owned and skater operated flat track roller derby league that has been entertaining and supporting the FM area since 2009. FM Spotlight dragged FMDG’s league president, Rosie Bruz-her, into the Interrogation Room for a closer look at the nonprofit organization, the skaters and the hard-hitting sport of roller derby.

THE

INTERROGATION

ROOMWITH

Rosie Bruz-herLeague president of the Fargo Moorhead Derby Girls


PHOTOGRAPHY // REPOR PHOTO

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ROSIE BRUZ-HERINTERVIEW

FMSPOTLIGHT: What FMDG teams are you a part of?

ROSIE BRUZ-HER: I’m a Monkey Wench (one of four home teams) and a Northern Pain (one of two travel teams).

FMSPOTLIGHT: How long have you been president of FMDG?

ROSIE BRUZ-HER: I started skating for FMDG in 2009 and became president in October of 2010.

FMSPOTLIGHT: What’s a typical day in the life of Rosie Bruz-her?

ROSIE BRUZ-HER: Oh gosh…in the morning I get my kids up and ready for school, then I go to school and serve breakfast and lunch, then come home and answer e-mails till I get the kids, then we come home and I help them with homework, get dinner ready then head to derby practice. Then I get home and I go to bed…okay, well maybe with a drink somewhere between getting home and going to bed.

FMSPOTLIGHT: What life tools have you incorporated from your day jobs into your position as FMDG’s league president?

ROSIE BRUZ-HER: As a florist you deal with a lot of personal issues – deaths, weddings, babies – you have to read who you’re deal-ing with and adjust to that person. I’ve met and continue to meet many different types of women. I think that’s the best training I could have for this position.

FMSPOTLIGHT: How has the league progressed?

ROSIE BRUZ-HER: I think the league has progressed as far as skaters and their skating ability. When FMDG first started a lot of the girls who joined were coming in and just learning how to skate. Now we have women coming to us who are already skaters. Skater agility and ability have come a long way.


INTERVIEW

FMSPOTLIGHT: What challenges has FMDG faced?

ROSIE BRUZ-HER: One of our challenges has been our growth in numbers at such a fast rate. The number of skaters really exploded between Season I and Season II and it was a huge undertaking.

FMSPOTLIGHT: What’s your favorite derby move to lay out the competi-tion?

ROSIE BRUZ-HER: The full- body shoulder hit…that’s my signature move. I gotta work on it a bit so I have a few aces up my sleeve when we play the Fighting Suzies in March.

FMSPOTLIGHT: What’s the biggest misconception about roller derby?

ROSIE BRUZ-HER: That it’s still staged like it used to be in the 1970s. I don’t think anyone

realizes how much time and effort we put in to playing roller derby and even how much time we take away from our families.

FMSPOTLIGHT: What are you most proud of helping the league achieve?

ROSIE BRUZ-HER: WFTDA. Joining the WFTDA (Women’s Flat Track Derby As-sociation) means we’re going to be able to be ranked in our region. It also means that we’ve made it to the big girl level of the sport. We’re going to get a lot of recognition and I’m confident we’re going to compete well. There are a lot of teams at different stages and levels around the area so there are going to be a lot of teams who will be a big challenge for us. We’re going to create some big rivals.

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[HE SAID]

[QUESTION]

Well congrats Michelle!Sounds like your new puppy is excited but needs just a little housetraining. He’s excited...about you. Thats all, dont read too far into it other than that! At least at the moment...but its up to YOU to bring that leash in a little, gently mind you, and just let him know that its important for you to take it slow...get rid of any baggage you both may be carrying, and just TAKE YOUR TIME. This is meant to last a lifetime...treat it with the respect it deserves and I totally PROMISE it’ll work out like it should. Just be sure to be kind to each other. And would it kill you to lose the bra and give him a motorboat ride every now and then? Just a thought. Best wishes to you both!

DAVID

[HE SAID/SHE SAID] Get your questions answered

at www.1079thefox.com and www.froggyweb.com


[QUESTION]

[SHE SAID] Oh Honey! I get that it’s not easy to say NO when someone proposes to you and it can be overwhelming and a ton of emotions, but if you already have doubts…That’s not good. Getting engaged is supposed to be a very exciting time in your life. Everyone questions whether or not they may or not be ready and that’s normal. I think if you have to ask others what to do….Then you’re not ready for the commitment. He is clearly ready to settle down and start a family. The sooner you put the brakes on the engagement the better. Once you start making wedding plans it’s going to become a lot harder to turn back and call it off. If it’s meant to be it will be and things will work out when the time is right. I know that sounds cliché, but it’s true. DO NOT lead him to believe you’re ready for something that you’re not…Be honest be-cause in the end he will respect you a lot more.

AMANDA

My boyfriend popped the question on Valentine’s Day. I said, YES and have since regretted it. He is really excited to get married and already talking about kids. I have already put on the brakes and want to be engaged for at least two more years. I think he is the one, but I am just not sure. I don’t know if I should just call off the engagement or if I should just stick it out and see what happens? -Michelle, Fargo

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3 G U Y S A T 1 T I M E !...REPOR PHOTOGRAPHY


216 Broadway N. Downtown, Fargo

FM Spotlight Magazine March 2012

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Transcript of FM Spotlight Magazine March 2012