SteelStacks — Bethlehem, PA

S	M	T	W	T	F	S
		1	2	3	4	5
6	7	8	9	10	11	12
13	14	15	16	17	18	19
20	21	22	23	24	25	26
27	28	29	30

S	M	T	W	T	F	S
				1	2	3
4	5	6	7	8	9	10
11	12	13	14	15	16	17
18	19	20	21	22	23	24
25	26	27	28	29	30	31

S	M	T	W	T	F	S
1	2	3	4	5	6	7
8	9	10	11	12	13	14
15	16	17	18	19	20	21
22	23	24	25	26	27	28
29	30

S	M	T	W	T	F	S
		1	2	3	4	5
6	7	8	9	10	11	12
13	14	15	16	17	18	19
20	21	22	23	24	25	26
27	28	29	30	31

S	M	T	W	T	F	S
					1	2
3	4	5	6	7	8	9
10	11	12	13	14	15	16
17	18	19	20	21	22	23
24	25	26	27	28	29	30
31

S	M	T	W	T	F	S
	1	2	3	4	5	6
7	8	9	10	11	12	13
14	15	16	17	18	19	20
21	22	23	24	25	26	27
28	29	30

UNIVEST NAMED PRESENTING SPONSOR OF CHRISTKINDLMARKT BETHLEHEM

Photo by Craig Roberts

Financial Services Corporation’s Support Helps Nonprofit ArtsQuest Enhance Holiday Experience for Visitors

One of the region’s top holiday attractions, Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem, is adding to its holiday experience this year thanks to the support of Univest Bank and Trust Co., the new presenting sponsor of the event. Named one of the top holiday markets by media like Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler, Christkindlmarkt kicks off its 26^th year when it begins its six-weekend run at SteelStacks Nov. 16.

Established by the nonprofit ArtsQuest is 1993, Christkindlmarkt is a one-of-a-kind holiday experience that brings the spirit of Bethlehem, the Christmas City, alive with the season. The event features aisles of handmade works by more than 125 of the nation’s finest artisans, live Christmas music, an authentic German St. Nicholas and European favorites like wursts and strudel. For families, there are also ice carving demonstrations, where children can watch talented sculptors using picks, chainsaws and blowtorches to create works of art from ice, and glassblowing sessions, where ages 6 and older can work hand-in-hand with artists to blow their own glass ornaments and candy canes.

Among the enhancements this year are holiday-inspired creative family arts workshops, additional artisans/vendors on several weekends and new holiday performances, such as The Swing Time Dolls performing their “Dolled Up Christmas” show in vintage holiday-inspired costumes on Nov. 20 and Dec. 14. Over the past quarter-century, more than 1.2 million people have been drawn to Bethlehem and the region thanks to the annual holiday event, including a record 88,923 visitors at Christkindlmarkt last year.

“We’re proud to sponsor the region’s premier holiday market in an effort to bring people of all generations together during the holiday season,” says Annette D. Szygiel, executive vice president and chief experience officer at Univest Corporation. “Through our partnership with Christkindlmarkt and ArtsQuest, we are continuing to carry out our mission of supporting the arts, culture and education in our local communities.”

Headquartered in Souderton, Univest Bank and Trust was founded in 1876 and has been part of the Lehigh Valley community for more than a decade, with offices on Main Street in Bethlehem, Broadway in South Whitehall Township and Hamilton Boulevard in Lower Macungie Township. As part of its commitment to giving back to the communities it serves, Univest supports a variety of community, financial literacy and family-focused programs and events. It also provides “Connecting with the Community,” a corporate volunteer program that helps area nonprofits advance their missions and programs.

“On Nov. 15, we recognize National Philanthropy Day, a day honoring the many individuals, foundations and businesses that enrich our communities through their support, in-kind contributions and volunteerism,” says ArtsQuest Sr. Director of Business Development Nicole Dotta. “So, it’s fitting that Christkindlmarkt kicks off its 26^th year Nov. 16 with Univest as our primary partner.

“Over the past two years, Univest has supported Christkindlmarkt and our community wholeheartedly, not only through their financial contributions, but also by volunteering several days at our holiday market. As a nonprofit, the support of ArtsQuest’s corporate partners and volunteers is the only way we can present all of our holiday programming for our region, and Univest plays a lead role in making it all possible.”

Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem dates are Nov. 16-18 and 23-25; Nov. 29-Dec. 2 and Dec. 6-9, 13-16 and 20-23. Hours are Thursdays and Sundays, 11 a.m.-6 p.m., and Fridays-Saturdays, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Admission is $10 for ages 14 and older, $6 for ages 6-12 and FREE for ages 5 and under. For more information, visit www.christmascity.org/christkindlmarkt.

5 Funniest VHS Clips from Found Footage Festival

Get ready for a night of riotous laughter when Found Footage Festival hosts Joe Pickett and Nick Prueher bring their new “Cherished Gems” to the Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas Nov. 8, 8 p.m. With appearances including Montreal’s Just For Laughs Festival, the New York Comedy Festival, and the Impakt Festival in the Netherlands, Found Footage Festival is a one-of-a-kind event that showcases hilarious (an hilariously awkward) footage from videos that were found at garage sales, thrift stores, warehouses and dumpsters across the country. Ahead of their show, check out our staff’s picks of the five funniest videotaped obscurities from Found Footage Festival.

5. Fun with Ventriloquism

This 1992 clip of Liz Seggen comes from a series of different how to videos the Found Footage gang uncovered at a Goodwill in Atlantic City. We offer our apologies to any I-talians who may find this ventriloquism tutorial a little offensive. You may bark, squawk or “nyeah” to show your disdain.

4. Video Dating

Before Tinder it was really hard out there for lonely men to meet women with extremely high verbal skills who like rollerblading, bubble baths and viking costumes. This 1987 video comes from the collection of comedian David Cross.

3. Total Self Defense

Found Footage Festival hails this crazy video as having one of the greatest intros committed to VHS. While we wouldn’t want to run into host John McSweeney in a dark alley, we’re also hoping no real harm has come to his patient assistant Paul.

2. Magical Rainbow Sponge

This a classic. Host Dee Greunig really brings the magic of rainbow sponge art alive as she wiggles, twists and squeezes with pure joy and ecstasy.

1. Muscle Motion Chippendales Exercise Video

More practical than CrossFit, this 1988 Chippendales exercise video will get you in shape with strategic thrusting and bouncing.

Found Footage Festival: Cherished Gems
Nov. 8, 8 p.m.
Price: $16 | $14 Students & Seniors | $13 ArtsQuest Member
Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas

Buy Tickets

Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem “Family 4-Pack” Sweepstakes – Official Rules

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A PURCHASE DOES NOT IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. SWEEPSTAKES OPEN ONLY TO PERMANENT LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES, WHO ARE AT LEAST 18 YEARS OF AGE. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.

1. How to Enter. No purchase necessary. To enter the Sweepstakes complete the online form at http://fest.formstack.com/forms/christkindlmarkt_family4pack_sweepstakes by 11:59PM on Sunday, December 16, 2018 or send your first and last name, full mailing address, and phone number on a 3×5 index card with the words Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem “Family 4-Pack” Sweepstakes in a #10 envelope addressed to: ArtsQuest / Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem “Family 4-Pack” Sweepstakes ATTN: Marketing Manager: Ben Youngerman, 25 W Third St, Bethlehem, PA 18015. All mail-in entries must be post-marked by December 16, 2018 and received no later than December 16, 2018. Limit one (1) entry per person. All eligible entries have an equal chance of winning, regardless of method of entry. No automated entry devices and/or programs permitted. No mechanically reproduced entries, alterations, facsimiles or forged entries. All entries become the sole and exclusive property of Univest Bank and Trust Co. (“Sponsor”) and ArtsQuest (“Promotional Partner”), and receipt of entries will not be acknowledged or returned. Sponsor is not responsible for lost, late, illegible, stolen, incomplete, invalid, unintelligible, misdirected, postage due, technically corrupted or garbled entries, which will be disqualified, or for problems of any kind whether mechanical, human or electronic. Proof of submission will not be deemed to be proof of receipt by Sponsor or Promotional Partner.

2. Eligibility. Participation open only to permanent legal residents of the United States who are at least 18 years of age at time of entry. Officers, directors, and employees of Sponsor and Promotional Partner, members of these persons’ immediate families (spouses, parents, children, and siblings, and their spouses regardless of where they reside), and persons living in the same households as these persons (whether or not related thereto) are not eligible to enter or win the Sweepstakes. Void where prohibited, taxed or restricted by law.

3. Random Drawing/Odds. Six (6) “Grand Prize” winners will be selected in a random drawing from all eligible entries. One drawing will take place on or about each of these dates: November 12, 2018; November 19, 2018; November 26, 2018; December 3, 2018; December 10, 2018; and December 17, 2018. Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries (both online and eligible write-in entries). By entering the Sweepstakes, entrants fully and unconditionally agree to be bound by these Official Rules, including the release and waiver of liability contained herein, and the decisions of the judges, Sponsor and Promotional Partner, which will be final and binding in all matters relating to the Sweepstakes.

4. Prizes. Six (6) grand prizes (“Grand Prize”). Each “Grand Prize” winner receives four (4) general admission tickets to Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem and one (1) $50 VISA gift card. Total approximate retail value (ARV) of the “grand prize” package is $90.00. Prizes are non-transferable. No substitutions or cash redemptions. In the case of unavailability of any prize, Sponsor reserves the right to substitute a prize or portion thereof of equal or greater value. All federal, state and local taxes, meals, gratuities, travel upgrades, incidentals, fees, service charges, surcharges, insurance costs or other unspecified costs or expenses associated with use of the prize are the sole responsibility of winner and/or his or her travel companion. Prize may be subject to restrictions imposed by prize sponsors.

5. Notification. Winner will be notified by E-mail or phone on or about the day following the Drawing and will be required to sign and return, where legal, an Affidavit of Eligibility and Liability/Publicity Release within seven (7) days of prize notification. If winner cannot be contacted within three (3) calendar days of first notification attempt, if any prize or prize notification is returned as undeliverable, if any winner rejects his/her prize, or in the event of noncompliance with these Sweepstakes Official Rules, such prize will be forfeited and an alternate winner will be selected from all remaining eligible entries. Upon prize forfeiture, no compensation will be given. Limit one winner and one prize.

6. Conditions; Waiver and Release. All federal, state and local taxes are the sole responsibility of the winner. Participation in Sweepstakes and acceptance of prize constitutes winner’s acknowledgement and acceptance of the Official Rules and winner’s permission for Sponsor to use his/her name, address (city and state), likeness, photograph, picture, portrait, voice, biographical information and/or any statements made by each winner regarding the Sweepstakes or Sponsor for advertising and promotional purposes without notice or additional compensation, except where prohibited by law. Prize awarded “as is” without any representation or warranty by Sponsor. Winner assumes all risks associated with use of the prize and participation in prize-related activities. Sponsor is not responsible if any scheduled event is delayed, postponed, or canceled for any reason. Accommodations subject to availability. Winner is solely responsible for observing and abiding by prize sponsors’ rules and regulations or terms and conditions for use of prize. By participating, entrants and winner agree to release and hold harmless Sponsor and Promotional Partner and their respective parent companies, subsidiaries, affiliates, partners, representatives, agents, successors, assigns, employees, officers and directors, from any and all liability, loss, harm, damage, injury, cost or expense whatsoever including without limitation, property damage, personal injury and/or death arising from, relating to, or which may occur in connection with, preparation for, travel, or participation in the Sweepstakes, possession, acceptance and/or use or misuse of prize, or preparation for, travel to or from, and participation in any Sweepstakes-related activity, and for any claims based on publicity rights, defamation or invasion of privacy. Each entrant hereby agrees to indemnify Sponsor against any claims, damages, liabilities, costs and expenses (including attorney fees) arising out of or resulting from and breach by entrant of these Official Rules. Entrants who do not comply with these Official Rules, or who attempt to interfere with this Sweepstakes in any way, shall be disqualified.

7. Additional Terms. Sponsor reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to cancel, terminate, modify, extend or suspend this Sweepstakes should Sponsor determine, in its sole discretion, that fraud, mistake, or other causes beyond its control corrupt or affect the administration, security, fairness or proper conduct of the Sweepstakes. In such case, Sponsor will select the winner from all eligible entries received prior to and/or after (if appropriate) the action taken by Sponsor. Sponsor reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to disqualify any individual it finds, in its sole discretion, to be tampering with the entry process or the operation of the Sweepstakes. Sponsor may prohibit an entrant from participating in the Sweepstakes or winning a prize if, in its sole discretion, it determines that said entrant is attempting to undermine the legitimate operation of the Sweepstakes by cheating, hacking, deception, or other unfair playing practices or intending to annoy, abuse, threaten or harass any other entrants or Sponsor representatives.

CAUTION: ANY ATTEMPT BY AN ENTRANT TO DELIBERATELY UNDERMINE THE LEGITIMATE OPERATION OF THE SWEEPSTAKES MAY BE A VIOLATION OF CRIMINAL AND CIVIL LAWS AND SHOULD SUCH AN ATTEMPT BE MADE, THE SPONSOR RESERVES THE RIGHT TO SEEK DAMAGES FROM ANY SUCH PERSON TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW.

The Sweepstakes and these Official Rules will be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of Pennsylvania. Unless expressly prohibited by governing law, entrants agree that any and all disputes, claims or causes of action in connection with this Sweepstakes shall be resolved individually without resort to any form of class action. Any and all claims, judgments, and awards shall be limited to actual, direct out-of-pocket expenses incurred, but in no event and under no circumstances will entrant be permitted to claim or obtain indirect, incidental, consequential or punitive damages or any other damages other than actual, direct out-of-pocket expenses.

8. List of Winner. To obtain the name of the winning individual, check the Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ChristkindlmarktBethlehem or send a self-addressed, stamped envelope by December 24, 2018 to: Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem “Family 4-Pack” Sweepstakes Winner, ATTN: Marketing Manager: Ben Youngerman, 25 W Third St, Bethlehem, PA 18015.

9. Sponsor: Univest Bank and Trust Co.

10. Promotional Partner: ArtsQuest

STEELSTACKS HOSTING NEW STEAM FESTIVAL IN 2019

steampunk_web

Free Steampunk-themed Event Aug. 31 to Feature Family Educational Attractions, Cosplay, Video Games & More

BETHLEHEM, PA–STEAM-based education meets Steampunk when SteelStacks hosts the inaugural PA S.T.E.A.M. Fest Aug. 31, 2019. The free festival, presented by WeDiscoverGeeks and IMAGINE Event Concepts, will feature science, engineering and technology-based attractions; maker programs and activities; video game workshops; cosplay and more, all based around a Steampunk theme.

With its focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Makers (STEAM), the PA S.T.E.A.M. Fest will include a variety of hands-on workshops, seminars, educational panels and demonstrations for educators, businesses and entrepreneurs. While many Steampunk events focus on older ages, the PA S.T.E.A.M. Fest will have a strong family component, with children’s workshops, art activities and more included in the mix.

“I’ve been in the STEAM education and video game industry for more than 20 years and I have always found STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) to be intimidating,” says WeDiscoverGeeks Owner and PA S.T.E.A.M. Fest Founding Partner Kat Mahoney, “But then we moved from STEM to STEAM education to include Art, which simply made sense because Art is a valuable part of STEM careers. I wanted our version of STEAM to focus more on Art & Makers because Math is already in all those fields, so there was no need to include Math and exclude those who many not be comfortable with it.”

Among the confirmed PA S.T.E.A.M. Fest attractions so far are the New Jersey-based Jason Hettel and Rose Liquori, who play a Steampunked Batman & Robin duo that are a hit at Steampunk events across the country; live music by Metamorph; dance performances by the Coveilance Dance Project; DJ music by General T. Osnofla; STEAM & 3D Printing discussions by Scott Shaw; and presentations by Game Design & Development of Wilmington University.

The festival will also include mystery theater actors, magicians, video game lessons, artists, authors, maker workshops and a cosplay contest. While PA S.T.E.A.M. Fest will be free to attend, some of the events such as the speakers’ panel and cosplay area will require a free ticket to enter.

Individuals or groups looking to exhibit, speak, perform or sponsor PA S.T.E.A.M. Fest should contact Mahoney at kat@wediscovergeeks.com. The event lineup will be announced in early 2019. For more information, visit www.pasteamfest.com/ or like PA S.T.E.A.M. Fest on Facebook.

Martin Guitar to Present Open Mic Nights at ArtsQuest Center Starting Oct. 18

martinopenmic_web

BETHLEHEM, PA—Iconic guitar maker Martin Guitar is partnering with ArtsQuest to bring a taste of the Martin Jam Stage at Musikfest to SteelStacks this fall.

Starting Oct. 18, Martin Guitar is presenting weekly Open Mic Nights hosted by musician Billy Bauer. Every Thursday at 9 p.m. on the first floor of the ArtsQuest Center, participants have the chance to sing and play their favorite songs on a Martin guitar available on-site. Everyone who takes part in an open mic session receives a free set of Martin Strings and is entered to win a quarterly Martin Guitar Gear Pack, as well as the grand prize of a brand-new Martin OME Cherry guitar.

Based in Nazareth, Pa., C.F. Martin & Co.® has been inspiring musicians worldwide for 185 years with its handcrafted guitars and strings, reflected in six generations of dedication to quality, craftsmanship and tone. Martin guitars and strings can be seen and heard across all genres of music and pop culture, from concerts to TV and movies. They have been the trusted tools of the trade for iconic artists including Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, Eric Clapton, Joan Baez, John Mayer, Willie Nelson, Ed Sheeran, Colbie Caillat, and many more

“It brings us great joy to see people of all ages sharing their music with an enthusiastic and supportive audience like we know at ArtsQuest,” says Martin Guitar Director of Artist Relations Chris Thomas. “The excitement is that we never know what will happen on any given week. Listeners are bound to be enlightened by new music, and for those who have been practicing but have never performed, this is an ideal place to start.

“It’s our hope that a chance to win this magnificent OME Cherry guitar, along with a set of Martin strings for every performer, will encourage even more folks to participate. This is not a talent competition and it’s not only for guitar players. This is a weekly gathering that ArtsQuest has created to energize and inspire people through music, and to help bring our community together through the arts.”

Musicians of all levels can sign up to perform at Open Mic Night every Thursday. Performers can register in advance by clicking here or onsite beginning at 8:30 p.m.

Highmark Community Stage on the Air Products Town Square: October Shows

communitystageoct_web
By Ben Youngerman, ArtsQuest Marketing Manager / Photo: Ted Colegrove

The Highmark Community Stage on the Air Products Town Square is the home to great live music at an affordable price: FREE! Grab a Yuengling and food from the bar and sit outside as you enjoy great singer-songwriters and bands from across the region. All of this month’s concerts are part of Oktoberfest presented by Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE)!

Kyle Lacy and the Harlem River Noise – Friday, 10/5 (5 PM) / Part of Oktoberfest

Kyle Lacy & the Harlem River Noise conjure a potion that stirs the soul, bringing you home to the roots of 50’s rock’n’roll and blues.

T&T Duo – Friday, 10/5 (9 PM) / Part of Oktoberfest

T&T Duo has a distinct acoustic take on classic rock that injects 21st century production values into rock’s golden age.

General B and the Wiz – Saturday, 10/6 (12:30 PM) / Part of Oktoberfest

General B and the Wiz is made up of a few really nice jazz boys who are into some really weird, yet wholesome, stuff.

Lou Franco Project – Saturday, 10/6 (5 PM) / Part of Oktoberfest

Now as a member of the growing Lehigh Valley music scene, the Lou Franco Project is known for spontaneous improvisations covering a wide spectrum from the classic rock catalog.

Scott Marshall and Marshall’s Highway – Saturday, 10/6 (9 PM) / Part of Oktoberfest

Multi-Award winning singer/songwriter Scott Marshall and his award winning band Marshalls Highway have established a brand of Americana made music to bring a show that quickly becomes an experience, and continues to entertain and inspire audiences of all ages and musical tastes.

Sylvana Joyce and the Moment – Sunday, 10/7 (12 PM) / Part of Oktoberfest

Sylvana Joyce and her band, The Moment, are a dynamic interplay of Blues Rock and Balkan Folk music that have gotten audiences of all ages and backgrounds raving about their stellar live performances.

Big Bone Daddy – Friday, 10/12 (9 PM) / Part of Oktoberfest

Big Bone Daddy is a SMOKIN’ Rock & Blues band from Eastern PA and Western NJ.

The Moondogs – Saturday, 10/13 (5 PM) / Part of Oktoberfest

From the mind of band leader Nicholas Capozzolo to the stage, the Moondogs bring an eclectic mix of 60’s and 70’s hits alive with 5 vocalists, perfect harmony and high level musicianship. From Motown and Soul to eclectic folk and 60’s pop rock, The Moondogs do it all.

Sixteen Jackies – Saturday, 10/13 (7 PM) / Part of Oktoberfest

By setting the intimate details of singer Jody DeMarco’s singularly queer experience against a soundscape which takes cues from the atmosphere of classic horror films, Sixteen Jackies have produced a unique set of torch songs for misfits and weirdos of all kinds.

Eighteenth Hour – Saturday, 10/13 (9 PM) / Part of Oktoberfest

Hot off the heels of opening for Bon Jovi, Bethlehem-based Eighteenth Hour has earned a reputation as one of the best live original bands around.

Dustin Douglas & The Electric Gentlemen – Sunday, 10/14 (12 PM) / Part of Oktoberfest

Capturing the vibe of late 60’s & 70’s blues-laced rock–n-roll, Pennsylvania’s premier power Blues trio, Dustin Douglas & The Electric Gentlemen mix retro-style and groove a-la (Jimi Hendrix Experience, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Black Crowes, Led Zeppelin) for a lightning charged, vintage style all their own.

From Toronto to Bethlehem: TIFF 2018 Recap & Staff Picks

tiff_web

Programming Director Ryan Hill and Cinema/Comedy Coordinator Anthony DeSanctis made their yearly trip to Canada earlier this month to attend the Toronto International Film Festival. They went to some star-studded parties, they ate some poutine, but, more importantly, they saw 40 movies between them in less than a week with the goal of figuring out what will be coming to the Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas as we get closer to awards season.

Here are their favorites from the festival…

Ryan Hill

1. Widows – Arguably the best-directed heist movie ever made, Steve McQueen wastes no time and no space in putting together a film that blends action and drama so well that the crowd at my industry screening was gasping and clapping with every twist (that never happens with industry screenings; we’re usually just thinking of how quickly we’ll get to our next film and/or if we’ll be able to eat in between). And Viola Davis is her usual amazing self.

2. Shoplifters – My early bet for the Best Foreign Film Oscar, this Japanese film already won the prestigious Palme d’Or at this year’s Cannes Film Festival. Writer/Director Hirokazu Koreeda beautifully examines a family that isn’t exactly what it seems.

3. First Man – The highly-anticipated follow up to La La Land from director Damien Chazelle (working again with Ryan Gosling) is a very different movie from La La Land, as it focuses on Neil Armstrong’s NASA career through the 1960s and leading to those legendary first steps on the moon, which are filmed with a stunning patience that places this film among the best to explore the Space Race. It takes a little while to build, however, though this can be attributed to the fact that Armstrong wasn’t exactly the most emotive person to have lived, a fact that Gosling stays quite true to.

4. Boy Erased – Based on Garrard Conley’s memoir of the same name – and dealing with his time in a gay conversion program – this is so obviously a film directed by an actor, as the performances by Lucas Hedges, Nicole Kidman, and Russell Crowe are off the charts. I haven’t seen that level from Crowe since his early 2000s heyday, and Hedges confirms, after his great turn in last year’s Manchester By the Sea, that he’s the real deal. And I just have no idea when Kidman ever sleeps; this is one of three films she was in at TIFF.

5. Gloria Bell – It is rare that the director of a foreign-language film gets to helm the American remake, but that’s exactly what Sebastian Lelio was able to pull off with Gloria Bell. I absolutely loved the original, making it very hard to judge this film on its own, so the main thing I’ll say is that Julianne Moore is a deserved lock for an Oscar nomination. It’s also a fun film (though not without its drama) that I think will be a patron favorite.

Anthony DeSanctis

1. The Old Man and the Gun – This film is very much a love letter to Robert Redford. It plays as his greatest hits rolled into one film and reminds us just why he’s regarded as one of the greatest movies stars of all time. Since this was announced to be his last film as an actor, he goes out with a bang. It’s also shot to look like a throwback film of the 70s and 80s. It’s stylish and sophisticated, infinitely rewatchable, and just plain fun.

2. Green Book – I smiled from start to finish watching this film. It will be a huge hit this fall. Mark my words. The word of mouth on this will be very strong. A crowd pleaser of the tallest order, Green Book is charming, heartfelt and flat out hilarious. Viggo Mortensen and Mahershela Ali have incredibly on screen chemistry. I’d say they are both locks for their performances at the Oscars this year. Especially Mortensen, who plays against type and gives the best performance of his career.

3. Never Look Away – Germany’s submission for Best Foreign Film this year. I hope it gets nominated. It’s a beautiful, moving story of love and art and it’s absolutely riveting. It’s 3 hours but it flies by. If this had been a Hollywood production, this is the kind of film that would get 14 Academy Award nominations. It’s also the same director of The Lives of Others, need I say more.

4. Beautiful Boy – I’ve been haunted by this film long after seeing it. It’s something I want to tell everyone to see. It’s powerful and heartbreaking. Both Carell and Chalamet prove that Oscars are in their future.

5. Burning – This is a movie I wanted to see again immediately after it ended just to see what I may have missed. You’ll want to talk about this movie with others after you’ve seen it. The slow pace actually works in that it earns each and every twist and turn. Burning doesn’t just grip you, it refuses to let go.

You may be wondering why A Star is Born isn’t on either of these lists. It’s because Anthony and Ryan didn’t see the film in Toronto; it debuted at the Venice Film Festival to such strong reviews that we now know it’s enough of a sure thing (we only get one of those a year, seemingly) that ArtsQuest’s time would be better spent on films we weren’t as sure about. We’re looking to lock that film in for October 5 and hope to be able to announce that soon.

Finally, if you’re an ArtsQuest member, you can get Anthony and Ryan’s full awards-season preview before the Member Movie on October 21st!

We’re always playing the best current films and your favorite cinema classics at the Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas! CLICK HERE to see what’s NOW PLAYING!

Oktoberfest Dachshund Races Return to SteelStacks in October with New Wiener Dog Parade

daschund_web
Photo by David Happel

BETHLEHEM, PA – On your bark! Get set! Register! The annual running of the wiener dogs is back at Oktoberfest presented by Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) with more racing opportunities than ever before. Join in the festivities at SteelStacks by entering your fast, four-legged friends in the popular and absolutely unforgettable Dachshund Races Oct. 6, 7, 13 and 14 at 3 p.m. New for 2018, guests can also enter their dachshunds in ArtsQuest’s inaugural Wiener Dog Parade Oct. 6 at 2 p.m.

Race registration fee is $15 per dachshund and pre-registered dogs receive a doggie bag featuring pet-themed gifts. To register, CLICK HERE. Each event is limited to 50 dogs per race. On race day, check-in begins one hour before the event. To compete in the races, dogs must be dachshunds or closely resemble dachshunds. If the excitement of a bunch of racing puppies isn’t enough, the first-, second- and third-place winners of each 50-foot race will win puppy pride, bragging rights and an Oktoberfest dachshund prize package!

The Oct. 6 Wiener Dog Parade will begin at the Oktoberfest arena at Levitt Pavilion and march around the festival. Pups can don their favorite costume or simply come as they are. And, just like Munich’s Oktoberfest, a queen and king will be crowned! Enter your dachshund for free in the Wiener Dog Parade by contacting ArtsQuest’s Addyson Young at ayoung@artsquest.org with your name, contact phone number and the name of your dog.

Now in its eighth year, Oktoberfest presented by Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) is a free festival that features brew samples, authentic German food and beer, live music and schuhplattlers, as well as attractions like the exciting Beer-Lympics competition, Yuengling Oktoberfest 5k, the Karl Ehmer Bratwurst Eating Competition, local artisans and more! Festival dates are Oct. 5-7 & 12-14. Hours are Fridays, 5-10 p.m.; Saturdays, noon-10 p.m.; and Sundays, noon-6 p.m.

For more information, visit www.steelstacks.org/oktoberfest.

Staff Music Picks: September 2018

september-music-picks

None of the ArtsQuest staff would work here if they didn’t live for music and the arts. To share our passion, our programming and social media teams put together a list of new-ish songs they’ve got on repeat this month. We hope you’ll enjoy our eclectic mix of musical tastes and discover some great new tunes!

Ben “The Resident Metalhead” Youngerman
Marketing Manager

“God=Dog” – Behemoth

In 2014, Polish death metal band Behemoth released The Satanist, one of the greatest albums of the year, if not of the genre’s recent generation. Knowing a new album was imminent, I figured they couldn’t possibly follow it up with something deeper, scarier and more dynamic. That expectation was crushed upon hearing “God=Dog,” the first track from their upcoming 11th album I Loved You at Your Darkest. The song is beautifully-layered chaos, brutally smashing your ears into submission with its poetic blasphemy. Behemoth frontman Nergal & co. may have outdone themselves again. \m/ (*>*) \m/

Amber “Genre Trainwreck” Galdamez
Communications Coordinator

“Heaven Wasn’t Made for Me” – Terror Jr

After releasing three fire EPs between 2016 and 2017, the elusive pop-electronic band Terror Jr dropped their new single “Heaven Wasn’t Made for Me” as a precursor to their upcoming full length album. The band, made up of David Campa–formerly of The Cataracts–and lead vocalist Lisa Vitale, keep true to their trademark sound with catchy tongue-in-cheek lyrics, a killer hook and a bass heavy chorus. If you aren’t already listening to Terror Jr, what have you been doing all summer? #KayByee

Emily “The Funk Junkie” Cummins
Public Relations Coordinator

“Remember My Name” – Mitski

Not to brag but (*clears throat/totally bragging*) before Puberty 2 and “Your Best American Girl,” I had the truly amazing experience of seeing Mitski perform at a Long Island basement show. Even though just a few years later she’d be an NPR darling touring with the Pixies, I never got over how she sounded live and stripped down with no backing band. Her latest album, Be The Cowboy, has more synth and pop edge, yet it’s still paired with her dramatic and breathy vocals that feel more like spoken word poetry than singing. “Why Didn’t You Stop Me,” “Lonesome Love” and “Washing Machine Heart” are all album standouts, but the one that really resonates with me is “Remember My Name.” It’s about female ambition and emotional labor, and when she yells out “I need something bigger than the sky, hold it in my arms and know it’s mine,” I feel seen.

Kimberly “The Wild Card” Koehler
Partnership Activation Specialist

“Take Tonight” – The Family Crest

I had the pleasure of catching The Family Crest’s set at Americaplatz during Musikfest and I have been obsessed ever since. This orchestral indie rock band blew me away with how talented and amazing they are! The band features guitars, bass, drums, flute, trombone, cello, and violin that blend together perfectly to create beautiful melodies. “Take Tonight” is off the band’s newest album The War: Act I and the track demonstrates how memorable The Family Crest’s songs are. The vocals and instruments form a beautiful marriage of music that keeps me wanting more! I have caught myself on many occasions singing their music without any music playing. I am looking forward to hearing more from The Family Crest when they release The War: Act II. If you haven’t check out The Family Crest yet, be sure to give them a listen!

Jason “Anything But Country” Merola
Manager of Experiential Programming

“Heart Attacks” – Alkaline Trio

Back with their first album in five years since Matt Skiba took a break to join Blink-182, it’s like they never left. Listening through the album I feel like I’m back in the mid-’90s when I first fell in love with the band.

Matt “Hip-Hop & R&B Boy” Gotzon
Partnership Activation Specialist

Mac Miller

In the wake of Mac Millers death, it’s incredible to see how many people he touched throughout every era and spectrum of hip-hop. We lost a great artist but more importantly an astounding human being. Going to college in Pittsburgh it felt like everyone had a Mac Miller story, whether it be going to his shows or stories of growing up knowing him. He was someone who was a star but felt more like your friend that was famous. His latest album Swimming was some of his best work ever. It seemed like Mac was starting to reach new heights in terms of the overall production of his music. Having bought tickets to his tour I was watching all the interviews he was doing on his press run and it seemed like he was in a good place. This was going to be a breakout year for Mac. He was going to reach new levels of success. It’s heartbreaking to see him go so young and not able to see out all the work he put in. If you haven’t ever listened to Mac before I would start from his earliest mixtapes and move on in chronological order. The evolution of his music is fun. The video below is his NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert where you can see some of his personality shine through as he performs three songs off Swimming (“Small Worlds”, “What’s the Use?”, and “2009”). Rest in peace, Malcom.

Alicia “Better in Boots” Rohrbach
Senior Marketing & Sponsorship Coordinator

“Love That About You” – Filmore

I am constantly listening to music in the background while I’m working (generally listening to the New Boots playlist on Spotify – always searching for new music) and things usually catch my ear – but I have to listen to them a few times before I’ll stop and look at the song and artist. As soon as the first chorus was over on this song the first time I heard it – I pulled up Spotify to see what it was – because I loved it immediately. My favorite thing about this song are the stripped down verses leading into the more pop heavy chorus. This will definitely be a favorite of mine through the fall and is currently on repeat A LOT (probably annoying those who have to work in cubes around me).

Anne “The Alternative Solution” Sturm
Senior Talent Buyer

“Cops and Robbers” – Shakey Graves

I chose “Cops and Robbers” to highlight from Shakey Graves’ new album Can’t Wake Up. Can’t Wake Up is not as Folk-Americana sounding as Shakey Graves’ previous 4 albums as it seems to integrate more of full Indie-Pop-Rock sound to many of its songs. Listening to the lyrics, you quickly realize the boundless charm and wit of Alejandro Rose-Garcia, whose vocals I cannot get enough of. The catchy chorus in “Cops and Robbers” demonstrates that.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RiHmoxtacSA

Melissa “I’m An Intern and Had to Do This” Webber
Marketing Intern

“Play” – Dave Grohl

My song pick will leave you speechless, just as lead singer of rock band The Foo Fighters, Dave Grohl, intended it to. In fact, he had no words either, as he construed his own twenty three minute long instrumental entitled, “Play.” Grohl had every note memorized, played every instrument himself, and stitched every uninterrupted take he recorded all together and turned it into a short documentary as well. I’ve been a Foos Fan for as long as I can remember, and finally had the opportunity to see them live this past summer at Madison Square Garden. The experience is something I could never explain in words, but listening to these twenty three minutes through my headphones have helped me relive just a little bit of what was one of the greatest shows I’ve ever had the pleasure of attending. Rock ‘n’ Grohl!

BONUS PLAYLIST!

Previous ArtsQuest Staff Music Picks:

May 2018
April 2018
March 2018
Top Songs of 2017
Top Songs of 2016
Top Songs of 2015

Nittany Lion Appearances & Dollar Wings Highlight Penn State Viewing Parties Sept. 21 & Nov. 3 at SteelStacks

psuwatchparties_web

BETHLEHEM, PA—Join Penn State Lehigh Valley and ArtsQuest in cheering on the Nittany Lions football team at SteelStacks, as Penn State faces off against University of Illinois Sept. 21, 9 p.m. and University of Michigan Nov. 3, TBA. The free viewing parties include the big games shown live on the Levitt Pavilion’s large outdoor television screen plus food and drink specials like buffalo, sweet chili bacon or garlic parmesan wings for $1 each, as well as featured items like fried pierogis, nachos and the new Yuengling Golden Pilsner.

On both days, the fun begins one hour before kickoff with a visit by the Nittany Lion, who’ll get the crowd pumped up and pose for photos. Celebrating the 2nd Annual WE ARE Lehigh Valley Homecoming Week, ArtsQuest President & CEO Kassie Hilgert, a Penn State University alum, and Lehigh Valley Chancellor Tina Q. Richardson will welcome the crowd on Sept. 21. Fans attending the viewing party Nov. 3 are encouraged to come dressed in white to show their support for Penn State for a special “White Out” party.

Following the festivities, attendees can then catch all the action on the Levitt screen; limited seating is available, so attendees are encouraged to bring folding chairs and blankets if they plan to sit.

Food and beverages will be available for purchase throughout both events at both the Levitt Pavilion’s Mack Truck Stop and the ArtsQuest Center’s MIKE & IKE Bistro; parking is available in the public parking lots on First Street, only a short walk from the Levitt Pavilion.

For more information on these and all ArtsQuest Center events, visit www.steelstacks.org.

« April 2025 »

« May 2025 »

« June 2025 »

« July 2025 »

« August 2025 »

« September 2025 »