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Your monthly guide to community
entertainment, recreation & culture
Surreal El Paso
“Starry Night” “Glory Days”
F E B R U A RY
2018
“Atop the Franklins” “Alphahator”” w w w. e p s c e n e . c o m
Page 2 El Paso Scene February 2018
FEBRUARY
Tavern, International, Craft & Social, EPIC ages 7 to 14. The kids auction is a no-cost auc-
Nightclub, The Speak Easy, and Gray Dog. tion; script provided for the bidding.
INDEX
This year’s Coin Show commemorative medal
february 2018 Bourbon and Whiskey Festival —
Several brands will be available for sampling 3
to 9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 3, at Sunland Park
will highlight the “Return of the Streetcars.”
Be My Neighbor Day — KCOS, El Paso’s
ROUNDUP Racetrack & Casino, 1200 Futurity Dr. (at
Sunland Park Drive). Admission is free. Sample
public television station, hosts its “Kids and
Family festival” with special guest Daniel Tiger Roundup 3-9
tickets: $20 (ten samples). Information: (575) from PBS Kids’ hit series “Daniel Tiger’s
Behind the Scene 4
874-5200 or sunland-park.com. Neighborhood” noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb.
24, at Bassett Place, 6101 Gateway West. Local Scene Spotlight 4
Mardi Gras Celebration — Freedom businesses and organizations will host booths Here’s the Ticket 10-12
Crossing at Fort Bliss; 1611 Haan, host a free
Mardi Gras celebration 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.
and interactive area. Live performances on Program Notes 13
stage. Presented by the Fred Rogers
Saturday, Feb. 10, with a Bourbon Street stage Foundation, KCOS and Bassett Place. Music 14
for live music and Masquerade stage for cultural Admission is free. Information: 901-1313 or Dance 15
History Lessons
dance. Acts include SambAZ Brazilian Dancers,
Odd-Lab fire show, Capoeira, Samba Batacuda
kcostv.org. 16
Alma de Fogo, Guitar Slim, Paso Del Norte Pet Festival — El Paso Parks and Recreation Viva Juárez 16
Brass Band, Ooh La La, and more. Admission is Department hosts its annual event 9 a.m. to 1 Sports 17-18
free, and free masks, beads and face painting p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24, at Westside Feature:
offered. Information: 964-5311 and freedom- Community Park, 7400 High Ridge, with vets,
Spring Home Show — El Paso Association crossingatfortbliss.com. adoptions, local pet-oriented vendors, live Five Points 19-21
of Builders presents the event Jan. 26-28 at entertainment and food vendors. Admission is Nature 22-23
Bourbon Street on Cincinnati Street
the El Paso Convention Center. Hours are 1 to
— The annual Mardi Gras celebration in Kern
free. Information: 212-0092 or At the Museum 23-24
7 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and
Gallery Talk
elpasotexas.gov/parks.
11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. The Dionne Twins Place is Fat Tuesday, Feb. 13. Cincinnati Street 25
of HGTV’s Family Flip will host restoration will be closed to vehicle traffic for the outdoor El Paso Bridal Showcase — The longest- Southwest Art Scene 26-28
demos at noon and 2 p.m. Saturday. Admission: celebration featuring food, live outdoor music, running bridal-focused event in the area is 11
Keep on Bookin' 28
drink specials and, of course, beads. Details to a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 25, at Epic
$7 (under age 17 free). Information: 1-800-
be announced. Updates on Facebook at Railyard Center, 2201 E. Mills, with fashion Liner Notes 29
756-4788, ext. 46 or HomeShowElPaso.com.
Cincinnati Entertainment district. shows, VIP area, vendor rooms and more. El Paso FishNet 29
The Barstool Open — Miller Lite and Admission is free; VIP tickets: $20. Information: On Stage 30-31
Topgolf hosts the miniature golf tournament Coin Show - The International Coin Club of
Stage Talk
544-9550 or elpasobridalshowcase.com.
and bar hop with nine golf holds in seven differ- El Paso’s 55th annual Coin Show is Feb. 16-18 31
ent bars throughout Downtown El Paso 11 at El Maida Hall, 6331 Alabama, with tables of Film Scene 31-32
a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27, starting at coins, paper money, medals and tokens by Valentine’s Day February preview 33
dealers from around the country. Hours are 1
Taking a Look Back
Circa 1963 in Hotel Indigo, 325 N. Kansas.
to 6 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Lovin’ The Art Annual Valentine 34
Cost: $60 team of four; age 21 and older only. Festival — The artists and businesses Placita
Scene User’s Guide 27
Registration: raceadventuresunlimited.com. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Information: 241-
6977, 533-6001 or on Facebook at Madrid, 1445 Main Street in San Elizario, host
Registration is 1:30 to 1 p.m. and awards cer-
International Coin Club of El Paso. their annual festival 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Advertiser Index 34
Subscription Form 34
emony is 3 to 4:30 p.m. at Circa 1963.
Participating bars include: Circa 1963, Park The annual kids auction is 2 p.m. Saturday for
Coin Show
Feb. 16-17-18
Free Admission
El Maida Shrine 1 to 6 p.m. Friday
6331 Alabama 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday
El Paso, TX 79904 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday
50+ Vendor / Dealer Tables
Raffle Prizes • Coin Exhibits to view Free Kids Auction
Youth & Family Treasure Hunt
by former American Numismatic
Ages 7-14 Saturday at 2 p.m.
Association President Walt Ostromecki
2018 Medals
available
honoring the
“Return of
the El Paso
Streetcars”
Information:
iccoep1963@gmail.com Like us on Facebook at:
(915) 241-6977 / (915) 533-6001 International Coin Club of El Paso
February 2018
‘On Golden Pond’ — El Paso Playhouse
its 20th annual monthlong celebration of
Randy Limbird
present the Ernest Thompson drama Feb.
9-March 4, directed by Veronica Flores. the arts with tours, ArtForms members
exhibits, and special events throughout the Editor and Publisher
Page 29. El Paso Scene is published by Cristo
Rey Communications as a monthly guide
area. Studio Tours every Saturday and (915) 542-1422
Valentine Dance — Forum Ballroom Sunday in February. Page 3. to entertainment, recreation and culture in Albert Martinez
hosts its Valentine’s Dinner and Dance The 20th anniversary Gal is Feb. 2 at the El Paso area. Copies are provided Advertising &
Feb. 10 with live music by Star Liners Alma d’arte School. free at selected locations. Subscriptions Circulation Director
Band. Page 7. are $10 a year, sent by 3rd class mail. (915) 920-7244
Cowboy Days — The annual celebration Circulation: 40,000 copies. Lisa Kay Tate
‘Sleeping with Lions’ — Star City Studio of cowboy culture is March 3-4 at the
Deadline for news for the
Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum in Las News Editor
presents new paintings by Pat Olchefski-
March issue is Feb. 19
Winston highlighting her African safari Cruces, with a special concert by Josh (915) 542-1422 ext. 4
through March 31. Reception is Feb. Grider March 3. Page 35. Editorial Associates:
The March issue comes out Feb. 28 Yvonne T. Herrera, Will Summers
10. Page 26. Las Cruces Arts Fair — The annual arts
Advertising Executive:
The Marketplace Valentine Weekend fair is March 16-18 at Las Cruces El Paso Scene
Roman Martinez
— The Marketplace at Placita Santa Fe Convention Center, hosted by Doña Ana P. O. Box 13615
hosts artists’ demonstrations, raffle and Arts Council. Page 35. El Paso, Texas 79913 Circulation Associate:
Randy Friedman
free gift-wrapping Feb. 10-11. Page 5. ‘Here & Now’ submissions — Las PH: 542-1422
Cruces Museum or Art and NMSU E-mail: epscene@epscene.com Contributing Writers:
‘Lovin’ the Art’ Festival — Placita Carol Viescas, Brian Chozick,
University Art Gallery is taking submis-
Madrid in San Elizario hosts its annual fes- Myrna Zanetell, John McVey Middagh
sions for its upcoming exhibit, at the Las
tival Feb. 10-11, at several of the history Jay Duncan
Cruces Museum of Art. Page 9.
Main Street galleries, with guest artists, Subscription Form is on Page 34
refreshments, live music, weddings and in- Fountain Theatre — Mesilla Valley Film Visit El Paso Scene Online at
house artist unveilings of their version of Society’s theatre shows independent, art, www.epscene.com
“The Kiss.” Page 12. foreign and other films. Page 31. sponsored by Phidev, Inc.
© 2018 Cristo Rey Communications
Page 4 El Paso Scene February 2018
February Roundup Galentine’s Day — Women’s Fund of El Seniors Love Conference — El Paso runs during regular building hours.
Paso hosts a fundraising event at 6 p.m. Community College’s Senior Adult Program’s • 6 to 9 p.m. Feb. 22: Evening Regale with
Cont’d from Page 3 keynote speaker FBI agent Emmerson Buie Jr.
Tuesday, Feb. 13, at Top Golf, 365 Vin 23rd annual conference, “Making Connections,
Rambla. Guest of honor is pro golfer and for- where there is love, there is life,” is 9 a.m. to 2 and performance by Sha-Vonne Williams.
and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 10-11, in his- Tickets in advance only through Feb. 12; $25
mer LPGA player Kristi Albers, director of First p.m. Saturday, Feb. 17, at EPCC
toric San Elizario. Featured will be the unveiling payable online or at any EPCC cashier.
Tee and golf coach at Cathedral High School. Administrative Service Center Auditorium,
of paintings of “The Kiss” by artists Alberto African-American Read-Ins are 11 a.m. to 1
Gals and guys welcome. Tickets: $55 (includes Building A, 9050 Viscount, featuring speakers,
Escamilla, Robert Dozal, Erica Zamora Murrill p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 7, at Rio Grande cam-
entry, golf, food); available at eventbrite.com. exhibitors, entertainment, and art exhibit and
and Romy Saenz Hawkins with their version of pus; Thursday, Feb. 15 at Valle Verde campus;
more. Food donations accepted at the door.
the “Kiss.” Wine and cheese offered; prizes Murder Mystery Dinner Theater — i- Information, conference passes are free: 831- and 10 a.m. to noon Wednesday, Feb. 21, at
given with purchase. Information: 851-0742. Suspect presents an Interactive Murder Transmountain campus.
7801 or eventbrite.com.
Guest artists on site: Romy Saenz Hawkins Mystery Dinner Theater running weekends in
during regular hours with metal-embossing and February, as well as Valentine’s Day, at Venue Black El Paso Democrats — The 35th
other art; and Nacho Garcia 1 to 4 p.m. both Events & Ballroom, 6633 N. Mesa, Suite 400. Black History Month annual Political Awareness and Awards Banquet
days, available for humorous caricatures and Shows are 7 to 9:30 p.m. Fridays, 4 to 6:30 is Saturday, Feb. 17, at Wyndham El Paso
serious portraits. p.m. Saturdays, and 7 to 9:30 p.m. Wednesday, Black History Month at UTEP — The Airport Hotel, 2027 Airway. Reception at 6
A wedding minister will be available both Feb. 14. Cost: $52.50; early Saturday dinner African-American Studies program, in conjunc- p.m.; dinner served at 7 p.m. Tickets: $55 until
days; Advance reservations required by Feb. 6; show, $49.99; Valentine’s Day Show $55. tion with other UTEP departments, presents a Feb. 4; $75 Feb. 5-15. Information: bepd.org.
text (915) 355-2680. Information: 519-4854 or i-suspect.com. variety of events throughout campus in Speaker is Texas State Rep. (District 120)
Performing 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. is David Cerros The audience will witness a murder and February in recognition of African American Barbara Gervin-Hawkins.
Saturday, and Arturo Garibay Sunday. uncover clues thru out the night to reveal the History. Most events are free. Information:
African American Studies Program, 747-8650 Black History Month Parade and Rally
murderer. Dinner and dessert will be served.
Valentine dinner and dance — Santa BYO wine event (no liquor or beer). or utep.edu/aasp. — The annual Inter-Club Council Black History
Lucia Catholic Church, 518 Gallagher, will host This year’s highlights include An Evening with Month Parade usually is scheduled to begin at
its annual Valentine fundraiser 7 p.m. to 12:30 Valentine’s Day Soiree — Sombra Angela Y. Davis, at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 10 a.m. the last Saturday of February (Feb.
a.m. Saturday, Feb. 10, at the church’s Centro Antigua Vineyard and Winery, 430 La Viña Road 7, at UTEP Union Cinema, first floor, Union 24), at Montana and Pershing and travels east
Amistad Hall, featuring dinner and music by (off NM 28 between markers 8 and 9), in Building East. Davis, distinguished professor on Montana to Copia then south to Missouri
Tejas Band. Dinner 7 to 8 p.m.; dance 8:30 Chamberino, N.M. hosts a fine dining experi- emerita from the University of California, Santa ending at Mary Webb Park, 3401 E. Missouri. A
p.m. to 12:30 a.m. BYOB for wine and liquor ence 6:30 to 10 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 14, Cruz, is a renowned scholar, author and advo- rally follows the parade 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in
only; set-ups, sodas and beer available for pur- with a sit-down steak dinner (vegetarian option cate for civil and women’s rights, who become Mary Webb Park, with vendor booths, family
chase. No outside beer or coolers. Cost: $30 available), live music by Frontera Jazz Two and prominent in the 1960s as an activist. activities and entertainment. Admission is free.
($300 per table for 10); reservations recom- dancing in a tented venue. Tickets (includes Information: 241-6046 or facebook.com/inter-
mended. Information: 592-5245 or santaluci- two glasses of wine or beer): $70 ($60 wine EPCC Black History Month — This clubcouncileptx/.
achurch@sbcglobal.net. club members). Information: (915) 309-7219 or year’s theme is “African Americans in Times of
War” at EPCC’s Administrative Center
Valentine’s Dinner — Rotary Club of
sombraantigua.com.
Auditorium, Building A, 9050 Viscount. Southern New Mexico
Silver City’s Valentine’s Wine Dinner is 6:30 Valentine’s in Valentine — The 6th annu- Admission is free, unless otherwise listed.
p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10, at Bear Mountain For the Love of Arts Fiesta — The town
al music event is 4 to 10 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. Information: 831-3324, ochave30@epcc.edu or
Lodge in Silver City, N.M., including a four- of Mesilla will host its annual art show 2 to 5
14, at the Old Mercantile in Valentine, Texas, epcc.edu/diversityprograms.
course meal, each course to be accompanied p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10, in the Old Mesilla
with performances by Doug Moreland Band, • 6 to 9 p.m. Monday, Feb. 12: Soul Night fea-
by a paired wine. Ticket information, reserva- Plaza, as part of For the Love of Art Month.
The Doodlin’ Hogwallops, and Beebe & turing historical Black Greek Letter
tions (by Feb. 6): Linda Brewer at the Bear The show features original works created by
Carrasco, presented by Big Bend Brewing Organizations and live hip hop DJ).
Mountain Lodge at (575) 538-2538. area artists. Admission is free. Information:
Company. Information: bigbendbrewing.com. • Fab. 15-28: Black History Month Art Exhibit
Please see Page 6
Love is all
around at
The Marketplace
www.marketplaceatpsf.com
n n
Valentine’s Day weekend Feb. 10-11
BISTRO
Indoor/Outdoor Dining 5034 Doniphan
Lunch Live Music!
5034 Doniphan Ste B (next to
833-2121
11 am-2:30 pm Every Friday
Tues.-Sun. 6:30 - 9:30 pm The Marketplace)
Dinner
833-9929
Every Saturday
5-10 pm 11 am - 2 pm magicbistroelp.com
Fri.-Sat. 6:30 - 9:30 pm facebook.com/magicbistro
February 2018 El Paso Scene Page 5
February Roundup Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb.
24-25, at the Farm and Ranch Heritage
Cont’d from Page 5 Museum, 4100 Dripping Spring in Las Cruces.
The regional public marketplace showcases
(575) 524-3262, ext. 116 or irenep@mesil- home improvement and construction business-
lanm.gov. Artists interested in applying may do es. Exhibitor booths, food concession stands
so through Feb. 6. Must have a business and how-to demonstrations also will be fea-
license. Set up begins at 12:15 p.m. for artists. tured. Information: (575) 526-6126 or
The Museum Rocks Gem & Mineral lascruceshomebuildersassociation.com.
Show — The annual gem and mineral show is Cowboy Days — The 19th annual celebra-
Feb. 17-18, at New Mexico Farm & Ranch tion of Southwest pioneer heritage is 9 a.m. to
Heritage Museum, 4100 Dripping Springs Road 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday,
in Las Cruces, with dealers of gemstones, March 3-4, at the NM Farm & Ranch Heritage
rocks, minerals, fossils, meteorites, jewelry, Museum, 4100 Dripping Springs Rd., Las
jewelry-making supplies and educational dis- Cruces, with two days of cowboy demonstra-
plays. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and tions, chuck wagon cooking, children’s activi-
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $7 age 5 ties, mounted shooting, the CASI Chili Cook-
and older. Information: (575) 522-4100 or Off, cowboy music, pony rides, gunfight re-
lcmuseumrocks.com. enactments, and a special concert to be
Miss New Mexico USA — The Miss New announced. Admission: $5; some activities
Mexico USA and Teen USA pageants are include additional charges. Information: (575)
Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 27-28, at Oñate 522-4100 or nmfarmandranchmuseum.org.
Performing Arts Center, 5700 Mesa Grande in
Las Cruces, N.M. Official preliminary to the West Texas
Miss USA and Miss Teen USA competitions. Texas Cowboy Poetry Gathering —
Preliminary is 8 p.m. Saturday, and finals are 3 The 32nd annual gathering is March 2-3 at Sul
p.m. Sunday. Tickets: $45-$55 Ross State University in Alpine, Texas. The sec-
(Holdmyticket.com). Information: (915) 945- ond oldest of its kind in the country, the event
2894 or MissNewMexicoUSA.com. offers stage shows and individual performances
Las Cruces Bridal Showcase — Helping by nationally known cowboy poets, musicians
Hands Event Planning hosts its bridal and spe- and storytellers. Information: (432) 837-2326,
cial event show 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 1-800-561-3712 or cowboy-poetry.org.
28, at Las Cruces Convention Center, 680 E. Headline events include Celtic Cowboy at
University Ave. in Las Cruces. Admission: $5 in 1:50 p.m. Friday, March 2, and Cowboy
advance; $7 at the door. Information: (575) Humor with Yvonne Hollenbeck, Chris Isaacs
522-1232 or lascrucesbridalshowcase.com. and R.P. Smith at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, March 3,
in Marshall Auditorium. Tickets: $10 per event.
Mardi Gras in the Clouds — The “Life of Charlie Russell” presentation by
Cloudcroft Chamber of Commerce will bring a Randy Rieman is 10 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday,
little New Orleans to the mountain community March 3, in Marshall Auditorium. Admission:
Feb. 9-10, on “Burro-bon Street” (Burro $5 donation to Museum of the Big Bend.
Avenue) with this year’s theme “Love and Other headliners include Doug Figgs, Ryan
Magic on The Mountain.” Food, music, ven- Fritz, Deanna McCall, Jay Snider and Michael
dors, games a parade and more. Admission is Stevens on Friday, and Gary Allegretto, Ross
free. Information: (575) 682-2733 or cool- Knox, Gary Robertson, Trinity Seely and
cloudcroft.com, or on Facebook. Caitlyn Taussig on Saturday. Showcase events
Cajun cook-off is 6 p.m. Friday. Tasting trays; are 7:30 p.m. each night. Cost: $15.
$10 ($18 for couples; $7 each for family of four A chuckwagon breakfast is 7:30 a.m. each
or more). Street dance with DJ Rico is 7 to 9 morning at Poet’s Grove (east side of Kokernot
p.m. Friday. Annual parade is 2 p.m. Saturday, Field). Cost: $5.
followed by Battle of the Bands 3 to 6 p.m.
Chocolate Fantasia – Mimbres Region Arts
Something for everyone
Council’s 19th annual celebration of arts and Sir Frances Stoddart lecture — Nobel
sweet delicacies is 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, laureate and professor of chemistry Sir Frances
Feb. 10, in downtown Silver City. This year’s Stoddart will speak on “My Journey to
theme is “Travel Through Time.” Tickets: $25 Stockholm” at 4 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 1, at
for 20 pieces of chocolate (eventbrite.com). UTEP’s Undergraduate Learning Center, Room
The event usually sells out. Information: (575) 106, as part of its Centennial Lecture Series.
538-2505 or chocolatefantasia.org. Reception follows the lecture. Information:
Closing ceremonies and award winners 747-5362 or centennial.utep.edu.
announced at 4:30 p.m. at Little Toad, corner Stoddart, a professor at Northwestern
of Bullard and Broadway. University, was awarded the Nobel Prize in
Chemistry together with Bernard L. Feringa
Las Colcheras Quilt Show — The quilt
and Jean-Pierre Sauvage in 2016 for the design
show is 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday,
and synthesis of molecular machines.
Feb. 16-17, at Las Cruces Convention Center,
680 University, with judged quilts, three special El Paso Cryptocurrency Conference —
exhibits of small quilts, workshops, demonstra- Learn how to use new technology to invest and
tions and appraisals. Admission: $7 one day; make money during the city’s first cryptocur-
$12 two day fees; free for age 12 and younger. rency conference Saturday, Feb. 3, at the El
Information: LasColcherasQG@aol.com. Paso Convention Center, with guest speakers
and beginners and advanced classes. Cost: $30
Gathering of Quilts — The Winter
for beginners (10 a.m.) or advanced conference
Quilters of Sierra County’s annual quilt Show is
(1 p.m.); $50 to attend both. Information:
9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Feb. 23-
epcryptocurrency.com.
24, at Ralph Edwards Convention Center, 400
W. Fourth, in Truth of Consequences, N.M., Vegetarian Society of El Paso — The
with around 125 quilts by local quilters, ven- society hosts its winter dinner at 6 p.m.
dors and door prizes. Admission is free. Saturday, Feb. 3, at Radisson Airport, 1770
Information: (575) 894-2959. Airway, with vegan buffet followed by guest
speaker, VSEP Vice President Greg Lawson.
Las Cruces Home and Garden Show
Cost (all inclusive): $25; $22 members; $10 age
— The Las Cruces Home Builders
Association’s annual show is 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Please see Page 7
Independent Pizzerias
packages: $199 to $599 (Ticketmaster).
— Pizza Today
Shen Yun 2018 — The celebration of 5,000
years of Chinese culture through music and
dance returns to the area for three shows
For event tickets sold through Ticketmaster, at The Plaza Theatre as part of their “Así March 3-4, at The Plaza Theatre, with an all-
call 1-800-745-3000 or go to ticketmaster.com. Somos” Tour. Tickets: $48-$140 new program with live orchestra.
Unless indicated, prices listed do not include (Ticketmaster) Performances are 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday and 1
service charges. Jo Koy — The comedian Jo Koy brings his p.m. Sunday. Tickets: $80-$120. Information: 1-
PIZZA
wild and energetic show to El Paso at 8 p.m. 800-380-8265 or ShenYun.com/El-Paso.
Rodney Carrington — The comedian, Friday, Feb. 9, at the Plaza Theatre. Tickets:
actor, singer, and Texas native brings his “Here $30-$45; VIP packages available (Ticketmaster). Duo Baldo — Showtime! El Paso closes its
KERN PLACE
Theatre. Tickets: $42.25 to $177.25. For inspiration from his family, especially his son. Sunday, March 4, at the Abraham Chavez
mature audiences only. This year, the comedian broke a record for the Theatre. Individual tickets: $30; $10 age 6-25
206 Cincinnati • 532-9483 The Coteries — The Colorado trio per- most tickets sold by a single artist at the (Ticketmaster). Information: 544-2022 or
WEST SIDE
forms at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 26, at the Blaisdell Concert Hall in Honolulu, with 11 showtimeelpaso.com.
Buckhorn Opera House in Pinos Altos, N.M. as sold-out shows and over 23,000 tickets.
‘Goodnight Moon’ — Impact|Programs of
865 N. Resler • 760-6000 part of the Mimbres Region Arts Council’s Valentine’s Super Love Jam — Rose Excellence presents the staged adaptation of
EAST SIDE
Indie/Folk Series. Tickets: $20; $15 MRAC Royce, Peaches and Herb, GQ, Color Me two familiar bedtime books by Margaret Wise
members. Information: (575) 538-2505 or Badd, Lighter Shade of Brown, Malo, JoJo/Mary Brown at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 4, at Lee Ross
1879 N. Zaragosa • 856-9111
mimbresarts.org. Jane Girls, The Chi-Lites, The Moments and Capshaw Auditorium (in Coronado High
NORTHEAST
Carnage ‘Rare’ Fest — Popular DJ Eddie Holmanare are featured at this year’s School). In “Goodnight Moon,” a young rabbit
Carnage’s “Rare” fest returns at 7 p.m. Friday, Love Jam at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 9, at goes through the bedtime-ritual of saying good-
11100 Sean Haggerty (at US 54) Feb. 2, at El Paso County Coliseum. Special UTEP’s Don Haskins Center. Tickets: $28 and night to every object in sight, and in his imagi-
821-7000 guests include Rae Sremmurd and Getter, as $50 (Ticketmaster). nation. In “The Runaway Bunny,” a young
well as Lost Kings, Trill Sammy and Gommi. bunny tells his mother he wants to run away,
UPPER VALLEY
Paul Anka — The legendary singer and song- and so begins an imaginary chase. Information:
Tickets: $20-$50 (Ticketmaster). writer performs at 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 12, at 545-5068 or impactprogramsofexcellence.org.
145 W. Sunset (at Doniphan)
Carnage has collaborated with some of the Abraham Chavez Theatre. Anka wrote
music’s top DJs and rappers, culminating in songs for artist like Frank Sinatra, Connie Steve Aoki — The two-time Grammy nomi-
such hit songs as “Liger,” “Homie” and
11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mon.-Thur. Francis and Buddy Holly in addition to his own nated producer and DJ performs at 8 p.m.
11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fri.-Sat. “Guala.” The popular Mississippi hip-hop duo hits like “Put Your Head on My Shoulder, Sunday, March 4, at El Paso County Coliseum
11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday Rae Sremmurd recently won a 2017 Billboard “Lonely Boy,” “Puppy Love” and more. for his “Kolony Tour” with Brooklyn born rap-
Music Award for Top Rap Collaboration for Tickets: $49-$169 (Ticketmaster). per and producer, Desiigner. Tickets: $25-$36;
www.ardovinospizza.com
“Black Beatles.” California-born Getter is a DJ,
“... definitely has the best pizza in town.”
Anka’s two most recent albums, “Rock VIP packages available (Ticketmaster).
rapper and comedian, and performs dubstep,
— Texas Monthly
Swings” and “Classic Songs, My Way,” feature
trap and house music. TobyMac — The Christian rocker headlines
FINE PIZZA &
songs created by rock performers like Nirvana
the 2018 “Hits Deep Tour” is 7 p.m. Saturday,
Flans — The all-Mexicana group performs and Van Halen.
FINE DINING their biggest hits at 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 3, Blake Shelton — The country superstar’s
March 10, at UTEP’s Don Haskins Center,
with Mandisa, Danny Gokey, Ryan Stevenson
“Country Music Freaks” Tour comes to Las and Finding Favour. Presented by Food for the
Cruces, at 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 17, at Hungry. Tickets: $15-$70 (Ticketmaster).
NMSU’s Pan American Center, with Brett Information: awakeningevents.com.
Eldredge, Carly Pearce and Trace Adkins.
Tickets: $43-$92. VIP packages (starting at
‘Dirty Dancing’ — Broadway in El Paso
presents the worldwide smash hit at 7 p.m.
$179), and 3D collector tickets also offered.
Sunday and 7:30 p.m. Monday, March 11-12,
The tour will showcase Shelton’s fan favorites
at The Plaza Theatre, with smash hits “Hungry
along with music from Shelton’s latest project
Eyes,” “Hey Baby,” “Do You Love Me?” and
“Texoma Shore,” featuring the hit single “I’ll
the heart-stopping “(I’ve Had) The Time of My
Name the Dogs.”
Life.” Tickets: $35-$70 at(Ticketmaster).
Eldredge brought his 2017 self-titled album to
the top of Billboard’s all-genre Top Album Sales Cheech & Chong — The comedy duo per-
and Country Albums charts. Pearce released forms at 8 p.m. Friday, March 16, at Inn of the
her debut album “Every Little Thing” and was Mountain Gods Resort and Casino in
one of only three females to reach Top 10 this Mescalero, N.M. Shows start at 8 p.m. Age 21
year on country radio. Adkins, a star on the and older admitted. Tickets: $29-$89 through
country scene for over 20 years with several Yapsody.com or Ticketmaster. Information: 1-
No. 1 hits, has also acted on TV and films. 877-277-5677 or innofthemountaingods.com.
Slaid Cleaves — The Austin folk singer per- La Banda MS de Sergio Lizarraga —
forms at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 17, at the The popular Mexican group performs at 8 p.m.
Buckhorn Opera House in Pinos Altos, N.M. as March 17, at UTEP’s Don Haskins Center.
part of the Mimbres Region Arts Council’s Tickets: $39, $59, $79, $99 and $129.
Indie/Folk Series. Tickets: $20; $15 MRAC (Ticketmaster).
members. Information: (575) 538-2505 or
mimbresarts.org. ‘Tejano Legends’ — Grammy winners
R&B and blues singer Missy Andersen Ruben Ramos and Johnny Hernandez headline
Experience performs at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, the Tex-Mex music style tour at 7:30 p.m.
March 10. Saturday, March 17, at the Plaza Theatre.
Tickets: $25 to $45(Ticketmaster).
Aaron Watson — The Texas country musi-
cian performs at 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 23, at the Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo – One of
Abraham Chavez Theatre. The West Texas rock’s most successful unions presents and inti-
native and up-and-coming country star’s new mate acoustic show at 7:30 p.m. Sunday,
album is “Vaquero.” Tickets: $22-$108 March 18, at the Plaza Theatre. Tickets:
(Ticketmaster). $39.50 to $92; (Ticketmaster). VIP tickets avail-
able online only: $192-$392.50
Dancing with The Stars Live! — The
hottest dance show on television returns with Bad Bunny — One of biggest rising stars in
“Light Up the Night” at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Latin trap music presents his ““La Nueva
March 2, at Abraham Chavez Theater, with Religión Tour” at 8:30 p.m. Friday, March 23,
many of the show’s professional dancers per- at the El Paso County Coliseum. His Dec. 15
forming ballroom and contemporary dances
from the ABC hit show. Full cast to be
Please see Page 11
588-4247
2 blocks north
T
he three lives of Five Points — Property owner T.E. Head, an early asso- Points, and remained in business until the and that’s what makes it so special.”
past, present and future — all have ciation member, emphasized the central 1980s. Photographer Marty Snortum pur- She said they knew they wanted to create
in common the neighborhood’s location as the key to its success. chased the theater in 1989, and has made it a place in the area, before they had even
central role in El Paso. “There is such a meeting of highways his home and studio since 1990. chosen what type of business.
Shortly after the first Five Points business and intersection of street railway and jitney “We saw there was so much potential,
association was organized, one of its mem- systems that it must necessarily follow that and we wanted to do something awe-
bers referred to the neighborhood “as near more people pass this location than any Life Two: Today’s People some,” Muñoz said, but admitted they
the center of El Paso as it is possible to other spot in El Paso, with the exception of and Progress were taking a risk building in a spot they
locate a center,” surrounded by what he the busiest downtown district,” Head said, weren’t sure would be discovered. She
called the “most thriving residence sec- according to a newspaper article. Hipster-friendly eateries and shops and took some inspiration from neighborhood
tion” in El Paso. At this time, the neighborhood boasted public transportation improvements are businesses in other communities.
The heart of Five Points is regarded as “three drug stores, five groceries, two meat some of the standouts that help the Five “You travel to bigger cities, and you see
the intersection of Pershing, Piedras and markets, a restaurant, tailor shop, one of Points of today draw the attention of peo- these districts that cater to the different
Elm Streets, just north of Montana. the biggest dyeing and cleaning houses in ple throughout the city. neighborhoods,” she said.
Today Five Points is still the heart of the city, two garages, a dry goods store and One of the most visible ways the Five The risk paid off, and the café has been
what’s known as Central El Paso, with two oil filling stations.” Points area acts as a center for the entire El in business nearly seven years.
new businesses taking advantage of both Later, Five Points was also home to a sig- Paso community is through the Sun Metro Other business owners have also taken
its location and historic atmosphere. It’s nificant first in the United States when the Robert E. McKee 5-Points Transfer Center. notice of Five Points. The 1/8 Pizza Pub
home to a major hub of Sun Metro, and Masons purchased the Ralston Hospital The “city has committed to making tran- and Dewey’s Corner Pub have joined Joe,
city planners point to Five Points as an there in 1922. It became the first hospital sit-oriented development a priority along Vinny & Bronson’s on the same block of
upcoming center of sustainable residential in the United States to be “established, all Bus Rapid Transit corridors,” including Piedras. Just this past year, Salt + Honey
business and residential development maintained and operated by Masons and the Five Points area, said City of El Paso Bakery Café opened at 801 N. Piedras.
appealing to a variety of ages and incomes. members of the Eastern Star.” The Five Mass Transit Department’s Public Salt + Honey owner Maggie Asfahani
Points Masonic Hall on Piedras, stood Information Officer Oscar Arriaga. “The credits Muñoz for being among the first to
directly across from it. One of its services Five Points Transfer Center will be a hub give the area a change. The success of Joe,
Life One: A neighbor- was treating many patients who traveled to for both the Alameda and Dyer Brio Vinny & Bronson’s did much to encourage
hood with a vision drier climates like El Paso during the (express bus) service coming on line in others to take a second look at Five Points.
spread of tuberculosis in the early 20th late 2018, and in the future, Montana Brio “I live on the West Side, but I knew I
Neighborhood business has always been century. The hospital operated until 1946. in late 2020, as all three lines will meet at didn’t want to have a place that was just
an important part of Five Points. When the The property was soon purchased by Sears Five Points Transfer Station.” Westside or just Eastside,” she said. “Five
historic area’s first neighborhood associa- Roebuck & Co, which tore down the exist- He said the Five Points Transfer Station Points really is central to it all, and it’s
tion, Five Points Business Men’s ing building and put in a Sears store. The and other developments in the area are easy to get to from both sides.”
Association chaired by Five Points baker site is now home to the El Paso Police “moving in-line with Plan El Paso’s Long Asfahani said people in the area have
George W. Weston, was formed in 1917, Department Headquarters on Raynor. Range vision of creating mixed-use, walk- really been great, and she is even planning
the El Paso Times called the group “a sec- Today, the history of the Five Points area able, and livable communities.” on extending her hours to include dinner-
ond El Paso Chamber of Commerce.” can still be seen in a mural created by “We are focused on local economic time in the near future.
“The Five Points Business Men’s associa- Jesus “Cimi” Alvarado adorning the west development opportunities, neighborhood “I’m not currently open in the evening
tion will boost El Paso at every opportuni- wall of El Paso Police headquarters. revitalization, maintaining the character of yet, but some of the other places are, and
ty and continue a campaign in the central The mural, dedicated in 2000, chronicles the neighborhood and of course, increasing this area is a wonderful, friendly gathering
portion of the city to let residents know the various legacies of the area’s commu- access to mass transit,” he said. place at night,” she said.
what they have in a business line and the nity leaders who have impacted the Five Christina Muñoz is co-owner of Joe, Muñoz noted while it is a good thing to
benefits of trading there,” The Times Points area over time, including Federal Vinny & Bronson’s Bohemian Café at 824 see more people taking interest in the area,
reported, and said any interested “citizen Copper; El Paso’s first female architect, N. Piedras and recently opened a yoga stu- there always needs to be “a delicate bal-
in the Five Points neighborhood” may join. Mabel Welch; Otto Thurman, another one dio across from the urban-style coffee- ance” of the new coming in without dis-
The name “Five Points” for the area was of El Paso’s early architectural leaders; the house. Five Points was a natural choice for turbing the integrity of the neighborhood.
adopted because many of the businesses in city’s best known artist, Tom Lea; and her, she explained. “You don’t want to take away from the
the neighborhood were where several Price’s Creamery. “We live in the (Five Points) area, so past, just because you bring in something
streets, Montana, Elm, Piedras, and East In March 1940, the Pershing Theatre we’re part of this community,” she said. new,” she said.
Boulevard met. movie house opened in the center of Five “There’s a good mix of everything here,
Please see Page 20
I
grew up in Kern Place in the 1970s and 1980s, but Five
Points was a frequent destination of ours for both enter-
tainment and shopping. At least five of my own “first
time” memories happened in Five Points.
Five Points was the first place I ever saw a movie. Before I
ever remember going to a mall multiplex, the place to see a
film, was the Pershing, with its dark carpets, cozy rectangu-
lar lights and overwhelming smell of buttered popcorn. The
movie I saw was Disney’s “Song of the South,” and I remem- The Pershing Theater is now home to the Marty Snortum Studio.
ber the “Buena Vista Film Distribution Co.” logo flickering on
the red curtains before they opened up to start the movie. It was the first place I picked up a Sears & Roebuck catalog.
We would always go when it was light, and get out when it I was probably about six, and we went to pick up an order at
was dark. We’d pass this old rock church, with blue glowing the Sears in December. I remember my dad handing me a
neon cross, and I would doze off until we got home. catalog thicker than the phone book. On the drive home, I
It was the first place I had spumoni ice cream. My friends flipped through the pages and pages of horrifying ’70s fash-
had picked me up to see the original “Pete’s Dragon” at the ions until I reached the toy section. There were slot cars and
Pershing, and they took us to the Italian Kitchen beforehand, Barbie townhouses, G.I. Joes and every game in the world …
just two doors down. I remember saying, We need to get the and there was livestock! I remember asking my dad if I can
spumoni … it is all different colors!” When you’re a kid, “get a goat in the mail” or perhaps “just a chicken.” I settled
multi-colored food is the coolest thing out, so this was some- for the slot cars and a Barbie that Christmas, not the goat.
thing incredible. Thanks to the convenience of the Italian As a teenager just learning to drive at El Paso High, I would
Kitchen West, I’ve never taken my own kids to the original meet my friend who went to Austin and we all went to our
location. I need to see if they still offer spumoni. first R-rated movie sans the adults. By then, the Pershing had
It was the place I ever purchased a “real” costume. In the become a dollar theatre, and we watched Steven King’s
early 1970s, most store-bought costumes were still plastic “Creepshow 2.” It was so terrible; everyone called it “crap
facemasks and glorified pajamas in a box. My mom, a fantas- show” on the way home.
tic seamstress, made most of my costumes as a kid, but one While working on this story, I visited Five Points with my
day I wanted a special satin cape for some weird idea I con- own family to see what it has to offer today, including Italian
cocted. My grandmother knew the area pretty well, (my late sodas at Joe, Vinny & Bronson’s, and seeing a Sun Metro bus
grandfather had once operated El Paso’s first drive-in restau- painted up like a streetcar at the transfer station. They got to
rant, the Old Town Pump, near Five Points), so she took me see some musicians practicing outside Memory Hall, and
to People’s Emporium. I remember costumes and wigs hang- loved the tiki art on the side of the Marty Snortum Studio
ing all over the place, and the musty smell of stage make up. (the old Pershing). My kids get used to being dragged around
I went by there often, when I had to purchase that nasty for photo ops, but they always find something new to discov-
oily stage makeup we used in high school theater. Today, er when they do.
People’s Emporium is the home of a business called “Metro I hope this first Five Points experience will hold plenty of
fond memories for them as well.
— Lisa Kay Tate
Signs,” which has one of coolest doors in the area, covered
with urban art.
D
irector Jaime Barba gets to take
‘A Chorus Line’ — UTEP Dinner Theatre, Information: 540-3813 or 474-4275. a trip down memory lane direct-
in the UTEP Student Union West building, The play tells the story of an attractive well- ing “A Chorus Line” at UTEP
presents the Michael Bennett musical, winner to-do young woman from Mexico City whose Dinner Theatre.
of the 1976 Tony Award for Best Musical and unexpected arrival in El Paso at the house of a He was in the show playing Greg
the 1976 Pulitzer Prize for Drama Jan. 26- working-class Mexican American family forces Gardner when the Dinner Theatre first
Feb. 11. Show time is 7 p.m. Wednesday them to confront their own identity and place produced it in 1995, so he understood
through Saturday; non-dinner matinees are in American society. Co-presented by the challenges of producing this particu-
Sunday 2:30 p.m. Feb. 4 and 11; dinner mati- International Hispanic Cultural Institute (IHCI). lar musical. very personal and raw for me. I’m
nee is 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 28. Tickets:
‘Photograph 51’ — No Strings Theatre “‘A Chorus Line’ is different kind of excited to represent who she is for so
$33.50 to $43.50 Wednesday, Thursday and
Company presents the story of Rosalina
show,” Barba said. “It is a show that many dancers like myself.”
Sunday discount dinner performances; $36.50
Franklin and DNA by Anna Ziegler Jan. 26-
truly requires every performer in it be a Other UDT regulars include: Paul (and
to $48.50 (Friday and Saturday dinner perform- ‘triple threat.’ It is essential to the show dance captain) – Derrick Cintron;
Feb. 11 at Black Box Theatre, 430 N. Main in
ances), and $19.50 to $29.50 no-dinner mati- that each performer is well versed in Ritchie – Rudy Melendez; Sheila –
Las Cruces. Directed by Ceil Herman.
nee performances (Ticketmaster). Information: acting, singing and dancing. There is no Sarah Pagano; Diana – Lizbeth Pineda;
Performances are 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays
747-6060 or utep.edu/udt. chorus. There are no ‘lead’ characters. Mike – Jorge Blakely; Mark – Alvaro
at 8 p.m., 2:30 p.m. Sunday Feb. 3 and 10; and
“A Chorus Line” captures the spirit and ten- “The 18 ‘dancers’ that are onstage for Callejas; Kristine – Becca Vargas; Greg
at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 8. Tickets: $15 ($12
sion of a Broadway chorus audition. Exploring the entire show have to use all three – Henry Del Toro; Don – John Levick;
students and seniors over 65; $10 all seats
the inner lives and poignant ambitions of pro- performing disciplines to tell their sto- Bobby – Jeffrey Quintana; Val – Katie
Thursday. Reservations: (575) 523-1223.
fessional Broadway gypsies, the show features ries. It is quite challenging for any per- Harding; Judy – Tania Hernandez;
“Photograph 51” is the story of Rosalind
one powerhouse number after another. former to take on a role in this show. Connie – Jensen Springer; and Laurie –
Franklin and DNA and neatly coils a scientific Dance plays a very important part of the
Memorable musical numbers include “What I Kaelin Walker. Zach, the director in the
detective story around a rumination on how story telling. So, we had to cast a group
Did for Love,” “One,” “I Can Do That,” ”At
sexism, personality, and morality can impact show is portrayed by Edward Gallardo
the Ballet,” “The Music and the Mirror,” and “I of kids that could dance. And as anyone III, who returns to the UDT stage after a
collaboration and creativity. who works in the theatre knows, it is
Hope I Get It.” long break. Newcomers are Allysa
Improv Comedy Show — Jesters League hard to try and find a large group of Donnely as Maggie; Laura Mae Klinger
‘Los Desarraigados’ — Los Actores male performers who can dance as well
of America, hosts its first improv show of the as Bebe and Jean-Andre Moore as Al.
Spanish-language theatre company presents the
year 8 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27, at as sing and act. That was a challenge.” “My biggest joy in this process is
play by Humberto Robles at 7 p.m. Friday and
Glasbox, 210 Poplar. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. How different is “A Chorus Line” watching these performers ‘create’ their
Saturday, and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 26-28, at
Mature content. Admission: $6 at the door; $5 from typical musical fare? It was con- characters and their performances,”
the Chamizal National Memorial, 800 S San
on the league’s Facebook page by clicking
sidered innovative when it opened in Barba said. “I have been at the Dinner
Marcial. Admission; $10 ($8 seniors, military,
“attending.” Information: (813) 785-6664.
1975 on Broadway, winning nine Tony Theatre for over 25 years (hair and wig
students; $6 each for groups of 10 or more). Awards, including Best Musical, and the designer since 1992, UDT costume
Please see Page 31 1976 Pulitzer Prize for drama. designer since 2006), so I see these
“‘A Chorus Line’ is very different than same performers come in as novice per-
you standard ‘boy meets girl’ musical,” formers and grow into experienced
Barba said. “It follows the audition actors. This show is a great vehicle for
process of Broadway dancers trying to the musical theater performer to get a
get their next ‘gig.’ Throughout the ‘meaty’ character — a character with
audition process we get to meet each some substance and with a back story. I
character and learn a little about them love to see one of the cast members
through monologues, song and dance. It bring these characters to life and put
was quite groundbreaking for its day their own spin on it.”
and it still holds up for today’s audi- Barba wants people to understand that
ences.” because of the depth and backstories
Barba, however, was glad to take on required of each character, “A Chorus
the challenge. Line” is unique in musical theater.
“Our February slot is usually reserved “It has the same elements but it is pre-
for a ‘smaller’ show (in the theater, sented in a completely different way.
‘smaller’ is relative) and we were asked It’s a little more edgy. There is a little
to try to pick a season of ‘name’ shows, more substance to the characters and the
or shows that have a following,” Barba stories. There are definitely adult
said. “Every season I do get to choose themes and situations that most musi-
the show that I want to direct, and I put cals do not even tackle.”
‘A Chorus Line’ on my list. Lately we Mitchell agreed.
have had a lot of regulars that want to “There are many themes that were
do dance heavy shows (i.e. ‘West Side brought up by this show in the ‘70s
Story,’ ‘Cabaret’), and I knew we had when it first came out that are now once
the talent that could fill the cast and do again in the spotlight: Women’s rights,
a great job with the material.” LGBTQ equality and the reality that for
Leading that group is UDT regular all of us our time is limited,” Mitchell
Josey Mitchell (Evita in “Evita,” Mary said.
Poppins in “Mary Poppins,” Reno Barba added that “You are going to
Sweeney in “Anything Goes”) as hear things that might make some peo-
Cassie. She performs the “Music and ple uncomfortable. But it is all done to
the Mirror” song and dance solo in the show the humanity in people.”
show, and is the show’s choreographer.
“One of the biggest challenges is Carol Viescas is a veteran of
being in the show at the same time,” community theater and teaches
Mitchell said. “There comes a point journalism at Bel Air High School.
where I have to switch off choreogra-
pher and have to just be Cassie. The UTEP Dinner Theatre presents “A
challenge of my role is that it is so Chorus Line” Jan. 26-Feb. 11.
much like my own life story that it is Information: 747-6060 or utep.edu/udt.