Songs for Another Time: Our 5 Favorite Songs Old Dominion Wrote for Other Artists

By Alicia Rohrbach, Marketing & Sponsorship Coordinator

Old Dominion has certainly seen their fair share of success in 2015 and 2016 – with “Break up with Him” going platinum and spending two weeks at #1, “Snapback” reaching RIAA certified Gold status, and “Song For Another Time” climbing to the top spot on the charts. The band is comprised of lead singer Matthew Ramsey, lead guitarist Brad Tursi, guitarist and keyboardist Trevor Rosen, bassist Geoff Sprung and drummer Whit Sellers.

The band received recognition in 2016 winning New Vocal Duo or Group of the Year at the 2016 Academy of Country Music Awards and Breakthrough Group/Duo of the Year at the American Country Countdown Awards. But did you know they were writing tunes before their 2015 release Meat and Candy gained popularity? Before Old Dominion visits SteelStacks for the Yuengling Summer Concert Series, check out some of our favorite songs that the band members co-wrote.

5. “Come Back to Me” – Keith Urban

This Keith Urban tune was co-written by Trevor Rosen along with Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally.

Keith Urban:

4. “Better Dig Two” – The Band Perry

Trevor Rosen co-wrote “Better Dig Two” along with Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally and it rose to the top spot on the charts. (Sidenote: The Band Perry headlines Musikfest on August 11!)

The Band Perry:

Old Dominion:

3. “Make You Miss Me” – Sam Hunt

Matthew Ramsey co-wrote the song with Sam Hunt and Josh Osborne. It became Sam Hunt’s fourth #1 from his album Montevallo.

Sam Hunt:

Old Dominion:

2. “Say You Do” Dierks Bentley

“Say You Do”, which spent two weeks at number one, is a song penned by Matthew Ramsey and Trevor Rosen along with Shane McAnally.

Dierks Bentley:

Matt Ramsey:

1. “Save It For a Rainy Day” – Kenny Chesney

Brad Tursi, the band’s guitarist, and Matthew Ramsey get the co-writing nods along with Andrew Dorff for “Save It For a Rainy Day” which spent three weeks at #1. Old Dominion toured with Kenny Chesney twice, in 2015 on The Big Revival Tour and again in 2016 on the Spread the Love Tour.

Kenny Chesney:

Kenny Chesney & Old Dominion:

Old Dominion
SUNDAY, August 27
Yuengling Summer Concert Series

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Leading Ladies: Upcoming Performer Spotlights

By Ally Abramson, ArtsQuest Marketing Intern

National Women’s History Month is coming to an end, but that doesn’t mean the celebration should stop. Year-round, we enjoy the work of female performers, artists, and comedians who bring their vibrant talents to ArtsQuest programming. Here’s a look at some of the leading ladies showcasing their skills at SteelStacks, The Banana Factory and Musikfest…

Banana Factory Art Classes – Year-Round – Current Classes

Throughout the year, our teaching artists hold classes in various art forms at The Banana Factory. Artists include Virginia Abbott, Deborah Slahta, Angie Snyder Lande, Cotty Kilbanks & more. From single-day workshops to weekly sessions, these classes are a great opportunity to get creative in the Lehigh Valley.

L.V. Improv Comedy Showcase – 4/6 – buy tickets

The Lehigh Valley Improv Comedy Showcase features some of the area’s best female improvisers. Erica Sylvester and Cindy Marsh come together to form dynamic improv duo Aunt Merica. Tami Cantilia and Franny Klapac keep your laughs up-to-date on #NEWS. A lovely creature (don’t call her a monster) Gretch hams it up with The Flumplenarfs.

Marina Franklin – 4/15 – buy tickets

Comedian Marina Franklin has appeared in various festivals, shows, and movies, from Amy Schumer’s Trainwreck, to HBO’s recent Crashing. Franklin also hosts the weekly podcast FriendsLikeUs, where she speaks to women of color about different hot topics.

Ginkgoa – 4/20 – buy tickets

Broadway/TV actress and singer Nicolle Rochelle is 1/2 of Ginkgoa, a band that combines French songs with a distinctly American vibe. The group, discovered in the well-known French festival “Les Francofolies,” has performed more than 140 dates and will be releasing their first album later this year.

That’s Historical! – 4/29 – buy tickets

“That’s Historical!” is a history based sketch comedy show that you don’t have to study for! Local comedians Shelley Lee and Jen Santos invite you to take a ride in their DeLorean and travel through time to visit famous figures and witness little known historic events as they really* (read: probably) happened.

Sneak Preview Screening of Great News – 5/4 – buy tickets

Tracey Wigfield, Emmy Award winning comedy writer and executive producer of shows like 30 Rock and The Mindy Project, presents a special advance screening of Great News. The show, also produced by Tina Fey, debuts on NBC this Spring. Following the screening, Wigfield joins us for a Q&A!

Caroline Rhea – 5/14 – buy tickets

Comedian Caroline Rhea, best known as Aunt Hilda on Sabrina the Teenage Witch, joins us for this special Mother’s Day performance. Rhea has appeared in several movies including The Perfect Woman and was the host of her own variety and talk show The Caroline Rhea Show in 2002.

Lake Street Dive – 6/13 – buy tickets

Fronted by lead singer Rachael Price, Lake Street Dive got their start in 2005 when they recorded a song written by Bridget Kearney (bass, piano, vocals) that ultimately won the John Lennon Songwriting Competition. Since then, the band has released many albums; they describe their sound a combination of pop and swing jazz.

Nora Jane Struthers & the Party Line – 7/14 – buy tickets

Nora Jane Suthers presents her new album Wake in this show in the Fowler Blast Furnace Room. Suthers and The Party Line are known for their self proclaimed “classic Americana” style, with songs like “Let Go” and “Carnival.”

The Band Perry – 8/11 – buy tickets

Grammy Award winning superstar sibling trio The Band Perry are an unstoppable presence in music, with hits like “If I Die Young” and “You Lie.” Frontwoman and big sister Kimberly Perry is joined by her brothers in this country/pop band releasing their third studio album this year.

Maria Bamford – 8/18 – buy tickets

Comedian Maria Bamford, star of the semi-autobiographical Netflix comedy series Lady Dynamite, and creator of the hit web series The Maria Bamford Show, brings quirky comedy and a great attitude to the Musikfest Cafe presented by Yuengling this August.

Hypoallergenic Spring Comedy at SteelStacks!

By Ben Youngerman, ArtsQuest Marketing Manager

Turn those sneezes into laughter this Spring with allergy-free comedy at SteelStacks! Avoid all that evil pollen inside our climate-controlled theaters, where tickets are less expensive than those pricey allergy meds. So wake up from your winter hibernation and head to Bethlehem for these hilarious improv, stand-up, sketch and unique comedy shows!

The Regularly Scheduled Shows

There are a handful of shows that happen on a regularly scheduled basis. That doesn’t make them less special, on the contrary, it makes them dependable ways to get out of the house.

• ManDudeBro: Every Friday, 10:30pm – Longform improv comedy from Lehigh Valley Style’s “Best Local Comedian” 2015
• The Associated Mess: Every final Thursday, 8pm – Shortform improv in the style of “Whose Line is it Anyway”
• Improv Comedy Power Hour: 2nd and 4th Saturdays, 10:30pm – Improv comedy from our very own house teams Cat Sweaters & Dream Carnival

Comedy Classes

• Sign up today: Do the thing you’ve always wanted to do! Improv and stand-up!

Sam Beedle’s Magical Happy Hour – 4/1 – buy tickets

Bethlehem-based improv comic and actor Samantha Beedle is bringing back her sensory overload show on April Fool’s Day! This is not an April Fool’s Day prank!

The Lehigh Valley Improv Comedy Showcase – 4/6 – buy tickets

The Lehigh Valley’s growing improv scene is bringing us some incredible teams, all with their own unique vibe. Featuring #NEWS, Aunt Merica, and The Flumplenarfs.

Hopefully We Don’t Break Up: Live Podcast Taping – 4/7 – buy tickets

Giulia Rozzi (Chelsea Lately, Comedy Central, TruTV) and Will Miles (Chris Gethard Show, SeeSo, Comedy Central) host a live recording of their relationship podcast with special guests, games and more!

Best of Instagram – 4/13 – buy tickets

The Lehigh Valley’s most narcissistic improvisers take on food pictures, cat photos, and glimpses of what your ex-lover wears to the beach. The Best of Instagram is a comic send up of the mobile app that turned everyone’s cousin into a make-believe fashion photographer. Check your duck face at the door.

Marina Franklin – 4/15 – buy tickets

New-York based Marina Franklin is emerging as one of the hottest comedians in the comedy scene today, with the following notable appearances: Amy Schumer’s Trainwreck, Conan O’Brien, Louie, The Jim Gaffigan Show, Showtime’s Women Who Kill, and Chappelle’s Show.

The Liberal Rednecks: The wellRED Tour – 4/24 – buy tickets

Southern Born and Southern RED. You’ve seen them on Nightline (ABC), Real Time with Bill Maher (HBO), Evening News with Don Lemon (CNN), Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell (MSNBC), and WTF with Marc Maron. Trae Crowder’s “Liberal Redneck” viral videos have been watch by over 60 million people on Facebook and YouTube.

That’s Historical! – 4/29 – buy tickets

“That’s Historical!” is a history based sketch comedy show that you don’t have to study for! Local comedians Shelley Lee and Jen Santos invite you to take a ride in their Delorian and travel through time to visit famous figures and witness little known historic events as they really* (read: probably) happened.

Sneak Preview Screening of Great News w/ creator Tracey Wigfield – 5/4 – buy tickets

Great News is a new NBC sitcom created by Tracey Wigfield and produced by Tina Fey and Robert Carlock (30 Rock, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt).Following an exclusive screening of an upcoming episode, creator, writer, and actress Tracey Wigfield will join us for a Q&A to discuss the show and answer all your burning questions about television writing.

The Bethlehem Air Sex Championships – 5/6 – buy tickets

The Air Sex Championships routinely sells out shows all over the country. It’s a safe, respectful, and thought-provoking show, but also a competition where the audience is invested in the outcome. The show itself is simple – roughly a dozen solo volunteer competitors pretend to make love by themselves – while a panel of comedians/sex experts judge their performances.

Kevin Nealon – 5/7 – buy tickets

Kevin Nealon sets himself apart from other comedic performers with his unique sense of humor, dry wit and likeable demeanor. Nealon is best known for his nine-year stint as a cast member of NBC’s Saturday Night Live, and has received critical acclaim for his role in the Showtime series, Weeds.

Nerd Nite Bethlehem – 5/11 – buy tickets

Nerd Nite Bethlehem is the newest edition to the Nerd Nite brand, a worldwide series of fun and education lectures, comedy, music, games, and drinking. Each night three speakers will present talks on a range of topics from science, video games, technology, and other nerdy pursuits. Grab a beer, pull up a seat, and learn something interesting at this unique event.

Ryan & Steve Bust a Movie: Bloodsport – 5/18 – buy tickets

ArtsQuest Programming Director Ryan Hill and SmartsQuest host Steve Bost – both of which may or may not still be standup comics – are back to add their witty takes to yet another awesomely bad movie! They’ll have live microphones and be watching Bloodsport with you, while throwing verbal punches.

Brian Posehn – 6/10 – buy tickets

Comedian/actor/writer Brian Posehn always has a full plate in front of him. He is constantly touring as a stand-up comedian in the best comedy clubs and rock venues in the country. 2013 marked the release of his first hour long special, The Fartist, through Netflix. Brian is currently co-writing Deadpool for Marvel Comics. He has a popular podcast, Nerd Poker, on the Earwolf Network.

Oscar Predictions by the Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas Staff

By Ryan Hill – Programming Director; Anthony DeSanctis – Cinema Coordinator; Lawrence Milano – Cinema Coordinator; Addyson Young – Cinema/Comedy Assistant

The Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas have been the home to most of the year’s Academy Award nominated films. On Sunday, our big screen is the place to watch Hollywood’s biggest night at the Red Carpet Party presented by Molly’s Irish Grille.

As the staff members in charge of choosing our films, promoting the movies and tearing your ticket stubs, the Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas staff live and breath cinema. Who will raise the golden trophies? These are their expert predictions.

BEST PICTURE

Will win: La La Land (Anthony, Addyson, Ryan); Moonlight (Lawrence)
Should win: Moonlight (Addyson, Lawrence, Ryan); La La Land (Anthony)

Ryan: It’s probably all the OJ Simpson stuff I’ve been watching lately; I just don’t trust the Academy to get this one right. While La La Land was an absolute treat in the first watch, it showed avoidable cracks the second time around for me. Moonlight, however, is an accomplishment for the ages that stays that way no matter how many times you watch it.

Addyson: While you might leave feeling better after watching La La Land, Moonlight is, overall, the better film.

BEST DIRECTOR

Will win: Damien Chazelle (Anthony, Lawrence, Ryan); Barry Jenkins (Addyson)
Should win: Damien Chazelle (Anthony, Lawrence); Barry Jenkins (Addyson, Ryan)

Lawrence: Chazelle deserves the Oscar for the film’s first seven minutes alone.

Ryan: Both Jenkins and Chazelle deserve the nod; this comes down to style and substance, and I predict the Academy will be more comfortable with Chazelle’s.

BEST ACTRESS*

Will win: Natalie Portman (Addyson, Lawrence); Emma Stone (Anthony, Ryan)
Should win: Natalie Portman (Addyson, Lawrence); Emma Stone (Anthony, Ryan)

Anthony: Emma Stone displayed a completely honest and genuine vulnerability in the film and stole my heart.

Addyson: Natalie Portman’s portrayal of Jackie Kennedy shows the heartbroken and real emotion behind the seemingly poised and ever admired First Lady.
*None of us had the chance to see Isabelle Huppert in Elle, unfortunately, which skews our choices a bit.

BEST ACTOR

Will win: Denzel Washington (Addyson, Lawrence, Ryan); Casey Affleck (Anthony)
Should win: Denzel Washington (Anthony, Addyson, Ryan); Ryan Gosling (Lawrence)

Lawrence: Gosling deserves it not only for his incredible and soothing singing voice, but also for being one of the brightest and talented actors in the industry… and for being a total heartthrob.

Ryan: First off, I’m firing Lawrence for thinking that Ryan Gosling has a soothing singing voice (he’s totes right about the heartthrob thing tho, but that won’t save his job). Secondly, Denzel’s Fences is an acting clinic through and through, and he’s got the momentum to overtake what I believe to be an overrated performance from Affleck.

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR

Will win: Mahershala Ali (unanimous)
Should win: Mahershala Ali (Addyson, Lawrence, Ryan); Michael Shannon (Anthony)

Lawrence: When Moonlight opened up with Ali in the first frame, I knew he was going to dominate the screen; he certainly did just that in the first act of the film.

Anthony: In classic Michael Shannon fashion, he steals Nocturnal Animals.

Ryan: I just want it on record that Ben Foster should have received the nomination for Hell or High Water, not Jeff Bridges.

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS

Will win: Viola Davis (Anthony, Addyson, Ryan); Naomie Harris (Lawrence)
Should win: Viola Davis (Anthony, Ryan); Naomie Harris (Addyson, Lawrence)

Ryan: The scene in which Troy reveals a troubling secret to Rose in Fences, well… Davis’s performance there may just be the best of the decade.

Addyson: I think either one of these women should/will win. Both of their performances will make you feel the feels.

SOME OTHER RANDOM PREDICTIONS/OBSERVATIONS FROM RYAN

• Look for Manchester by the Sea and Moonlight to grab their respective Screenplay awards, though I’d kill to see The Lobster come up from behind and grab it from Manchester.

• The Salesman will steal the Best Foreign Film nod from Toni Erdmann as a protest vote, though I also wouldn’t be surprised if those two films end up splitting voters enough that A Man Called Ove grabs it.

• So long as he’s reviewed the terrible turn from Seth MacFarlane and learned the right lessons, Jimmy Kimmel is gonna kill it as host.

• I’m only halfway through O.J. Made in America and I can tell you that it’ll deservedly win Best Documentary on Sunday.

• The Cinematography category – of which 4 of the 5 nominees have never been nominated before – is the biggest toss-up of the night. The safest money is on Linus Sandgren for La La Land, because it’s La La Land.

• Hospitals across the country will be overrun by morons who took the under in drinking games involving how often award winners take a swipe at the president.

• Mica Levi – known as Micachu – turned in work for Jackie that was as important to the film as Natalie Portman’s. It should not just be enough that she’s nominated for Best Score, she has to win it.

• I’m sorry, Hamilton fans, but Lin Manuel Miranda ain’t gonna EGOT… at least not at this time.

• We’re gonna have a killer time watching the Oscars at the Red Carpet Party presented by Molly’s Irish Grille, and really, if you’ve read this far, you’re a true cinephile who needs to be there with us!

THE RED CARPET PARTY: Presented by Molly’s Irish Grille
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 26
Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas

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Girl Scout Cookie Crunch: Recipe for Shortbread Bacon Mac & Cheese

Tickets for fundraising event benefiting ArtsQuest and Girl Scouts on sale now

What’s better than bacon mac & cheese? Bacon mac & cheese topped with Girl Scout cookies!

At the 3rd Annual Girl Scout Cookie Crunch, Feb. 26, at SteelStacks, ArtsQuest Executive Chef Michael Hoffman will prepare bacon macaroni and cheese topped with Girl Scout Shortbreads®. Try this unique recipe at home!

Bacon Macaroni and Cheese topped with Shortbread Cookies

Ingredients:

1 pound Cavatapi Pasta
1 gal water, boiling
1 tbsp salt
2 tbsp vegetable oil

1 tablespoon Salted Butter
1 large Shallot minced
½ Sweet onion minced
¼ cup minced garlic
1 pound bacon lardons, bacon cut into small pieces (match stick width)

On medium high heat, melt butter and sweat the onions, garlic and shallots, add bacon. By the time the bacon is done the onions and garlic mix should be caramelized. Turn the heat down to a low medium. Salt and Pepper to taste.

1 Qt Heavy Cream
1 lb Smoked Gouda Cheese (hand shredded)
1 lb White American Cheese (tear into quarters while adding to cream)

Add Cream to the above onion mix. Once the cream is starting to come to a roll (do not allow the cream to boil over) start adding small amounts of the smoked Gouda and whisking using a wire whisk once each batch is melted add more cheese. Once all the Gouda is in the mix add American cheese one slice at a time until the sauce is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

1 box Girl Scout Shortbread Cookies (crumbled, one sleeve at a time)
6 oz Salted butter, melted

Sauté the crumbled cookies in the Melted butter (this will stop the cookies from burning while baked)

1. Cook pasta to al dente. Drain.
2. On medium high heat, melt butter and sweat the onions, garlic and shallots, add bacon by the time the bacon is done the onions and garlic mix should be caramelized. Turn the heat down to a low medium.
3. Add Cream to the above onion mix, once the cream is starting to come to a roll (do not allow the cream to boil over) start adding small amounts of the Smoked Gouda and whisking using a wire whisk once each batch is melted add more cheese. Once all the Gouda is in the mix add American cheese one slice at a time till the sauce is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
4. Pour over macaroni and mix carefully. Scale into one greased 12 x 20 x 2-in baking pan.
5. Mix crumbs and 6 oz salted butter. Sprinkle over macaroni and cheese. Cover with Parchment paper (waxed paper will work) then in aluminum foil.
6. Bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes, until 160°F. Remove the foil and paper and bake until top is golden brown

Try this amazing dish and more at the 3rd Annual Girl Scout Cookie Crunch. During this fun filled event, attendees can sample culinary creations from more than 15 restaurants, as well as vote for their favorites in People’s Choice ‘sweet’ and ‘savory’ categories.

New this year, ages 18 and under can also vote for the winner of the Kid’s Choice Award. Each dish will feature one or more of the Girl Scout Cookie brands: Thin Mints®, Peanut Butter Patties®, Caramel deLITES®, Shortbreads®, Lemonades®, Peanut Butter Sandwiches®, Thanks-A-Lots® and Gluten-Free Trios®. Also available are signature cocktails including a Lemonade Martini and Thin-Mintini.

Other Cookie Crunch participants and a sample of their offerings include:

• 29 Cooks Catering and Culinary Center – Sweet BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese and Strawberry Shortcake Cream Cheese Bites
• ArtsQuest Center Culinary Team, Bethlehem – Bacon Macaroni and Cheese topped with Shortbread Cookies
• Bell Hall, Allentown
• Bethlehem Dairy Store, Bethlehem – S’mores & Cream and Lemon Chiffon Crunch
• Centro, Allentown – Lemon Ricotta Gnocchi with Lemonades® Cookies coated in a Sage Infused Butter
• The Dime, Allentown – Kabocha Squash Gelato with Coconut Mole and Caramel deLITES®
• Emeril’s Chop House, Bethlehem – Strawberry Crème Domes
• Forks Mediterranean Deli, Easton – Fig and Walnut Cookies using Shortbreads
• Ichiban Japanese Steakhouse, Allentown
• Iron Lakes Country Club, Orefield – Caribbean Chicken Meatball, with Roasted Tomato Sauce with Caramel deLITES®
• Papa’s Cupcakes, Perkasie – Caramel deLITES® Cupcakes
• Shankara Vegan Restaurant, Bethlehem
• The Steel Pub, Bethlehem – Brownie Cheesecake Bar with S’mores and Shortbread Cookies
• Trixie’s Treats, Allentown – Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes
• Vince’s Famous Cheesesteaks, Allentown

Girl Scout Cookie Crunch
SUNDAY, Feb. 26
Musikfest Cafe presented by Yuengling

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Ladysmith Black Mambazo talks new album, group’s legacy and inspiration

By Emily Cummins, Public Relationsh Coordinator

Designated as “South Africa’s Cultural Ambassadors to the World” by the late South African President Nelson Mandela, acclaimed a cappella group Ladysmith Black Mambazo has been on a mission to spread peace, love and harmony all around the world through song. They plan to “bring the sunshine” to Bethlehem during their performance at the Musikfest Café presented by Yuengling March 7, 7:30 p.m.

Founded by Joseph Shabalala, in the 1970’s and early 1980’s, Ladysmith Black Mambazo established themselves as the most successful singing group in South Africa. In 1986, they were launched onto the world stage through their appearance on Paul Simon’s Graceland, which was later considered a pivotal moment in introducing world music to mainstream audiences. Simon later produced Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s first worldwide release, Shaka Zulu, which won the group’s first of four GRAMMY Awards.

Now led by Shabalala’s sons, Ladysmith Black Mambazo have received their 17th GRAMMY nomination for their latest studio album, Walking In The Footsteps Of Our Fathers. The album is dedicated to the original members of the group, as well as the many people who have work to transform South Africa. Songs include “Long Walk to Freedom,” which commemorates former President Nelson Mandela and the many heroes who sacrificed and fought for freedom for all South Africa; “Phalamende,” which portrays a free nation and better society; and “Mina Kangivumanga,” which praises the equality of all, no matter what color, culture or country.

As the group tours the U.S. performing music from this album, as well as their greatest hits, we chatted with Albert Mazibuko, who’s been with the group since 1969.

As a group, Ladysmith Black Mambazo has been around for more than 50 years. What do you think is the secret to your success and longevity?

I could say the secret to our success is that the music has got a message. Our mission is to spread love, peace and harmony through the music so the message is a positive one. Our aim is to encourage people through the music, like some people living hard lives think if things are not going right today, they will soon get better because in life there is always hope.

With the group’s mission of spreading peace, love and harmony, how does that manifest in your music?

Our music is joy, and we share that with our audience, and we try to inspire others. You would be amazed at what inspires us. Growing up in a not so pleasing environment, you need something to make you stronger. It is in our culture. Everybody sings on the farm. You find a way to escape and create the positive environment in yourself in any circumstance. This is what inspires us; people who say “instead of sitting, feeling sorry for ourselves, let’s sing because tomorrow will be better than today.”

Through the group’s history, you’ve been associated closely with the struggle to end Apartheid in South Africa. What is the importance of politics in music to you and how do you hope to influence others?

A lot of our songs deal with this specifically. There was a time in South Africa when the political parties were killing each other left and right and we had written a song that asked everyone to come together in peace. It’s powerful to say something through song that puts the emotion there for everyone to see and hear and it impacted people. We were asked to sing at rallies, and we of course wanted to help all our brothers and sisters. Dr. Nelson Mandela, he requested us to sing his inauguration. In the song “King of Kings” we start with a prayer

Oh Kings of Kings
King of Kings
We kneel before you Father, appealing
Asking for peace in the rest of the country
Lord of Lords
We kneel before you Father, appealing
Asking for peace in the rest of the country

We hope our music influences people to look at situations the way we look at it.

The group has had some outstanding collaborations with artists from around the globe. What are your favorites, and what styles of music are the most fun to incorporate with your music?

We enjoy all collaborations. Of course Paul Simon introduced us to the world stage. For me the standout studio collaboration was with Dolly Parton. When we got there, she was this beautiful lady and so happy. She listened to the song, and then she had a costume change and then we worked some more. The whole time, she changed her costume four times (laughs). That really made the recording a special and fun experience for us all. It is always a wonderful experience in the studio, working with Stevie Wonder, Josh Groban, Melissa Etheridge, but Dolly Parton is one I will never forget.

What was it like to pair music with dance in your latest collaboration with Rambert Dance Company’s Inala – A Zulu Ballet?

This was a great experience that worked so beautifully. The team writing songs was song talented, but then came the challenge of putting dance to the music. It was a totally different experience for us, so it’s wonderful to do something that takes you out of your comfort zone and makes you stand on your toes.

What’s the most memorable performance for the group and what made it special?

Really the privilege for us is just to be in front of people; it does not matter if the people are many or few. The importance is to share the music and be with them while they enjoy it.

What can the audience expect during Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s show at the Musikfest Café?

We now have a younger generation of members, and we are celebrating our history while also letting these new voices shine. People can expect beautiful singing with lots of dancing, a vibrant performance.

Any advice for fans?

In life you shouldn’t give up! You have to stand up for you rights, but doing what is just good for you is not helping anyone.

WXPN Welcomes Ladysmith Black Mambazo
TUESDAY, MARCH 7
Musikfest Cafe presented by Yuengling

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Staff Picks: The Year’s Best Films

The Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas staff and ArtsQuest Cinema Committee have seen a lot of great films and eaten a lot of popcorn over the past year. Hollywood will crown their favorite films in a couple weeks (which you can watch on the big screen at The Red Carpet Party presented by Molly’s Irish Grille).

While there’s a consensus that La La Land and Moonlight are the two best films of the past year, different cinema-goers have different tastes. See our picks below for some predictable picks and some surprise inclusions.

Ryan Hill, Programming Director

1. Moonlight
Expertly written, expertly acted, expertly crafted; Barry Jenkins has a lifelong fan in me.

2. Jackie
Both Natalie Portman and the score of this film specifically stand out, as does the direction of Pablo Larraín. The camera work is stellar, as we get to be closer to Jackie Kennedy than anyone actually was at that time in history. One nitpick: why does Portman own the Jackie accent while Peter Sarsgaard’s Bobby Kennedy sound… not like a Kennedy?

3. Sing Street
Pure, unadulterated fun that is never shlocky.

4. La La Land
I saw this twice: the first screening was unforgettable, as a normally jaded press and industry audience (including myself) gave the film no fewer than four ovations; some of the magic wore off and slight flaws became apparent on a second viewing. Not to take away from an incredible directorial achievement from Damien Chazelle.

5. Hunt for the Wilderpeople
The surprise of 2016 for me. Please excuse the cliché, but fewer films better embody the true spirit of independent cinema than Hunt for the Wilderpeople.

6. The Lobster
The scenes where Colin Farrell’s character is trying to convince his future ‘wife’ that he hates people as much as her – including the one where he kicks a little girl right in the shin – are comedy gold. The final scene is arguably the best of the year.

7. Arrival
Get rid of that goofy Jeremy Renner narration in the 2nd act, and this film had a chance at cracking my top 3. That said, this was an excellent mashup of sci-fi and psychological thriller.

8. Don’t Think Twice
Don’t think that you won’t get this film if you haven’t performed and/or seen improv comedy. It’s not about comedy, it’s about people who happen to perform comedy. That said, if you’ve ever been on an improv team, this film is gonna make you feel some things. The ending is a tiny bit too neat, but there are too many beautiful moments and strong laughs before that to hold it against the film.

9. Hell or High Water
While I’m against Jeff Bridges getting acting nods for his work on this film, as I’m not convinced the dude is actually acting, Hell or High Water did make me appreciate Chris Pine in a way I never expected to (and Ben Foster continues to be a proven workhorse of an actor). I also loved the cinematography; it’s one of the more visually striking modern westerns.

10. Blue Jay
I’m a sucker for the following three things: black and white cinematography, Sarah Paulson, and the screenwriting of Mark Duplass. Blue Jay has all three of these things, though may arguably not be better than the sum of their parts. All the same, it’s worth your time.

Anthony DeSanctis, Cinema Assistant

1. La La Land
La La Land is a reminder of the magic of cinema and why we go to the movies. The ultimate crowd pleaser, this film is a throwback to the Golden Age of musicals, but still feels completely fresh and original. After Whiplash and La La Land, Damien Chazelle is easily one of the best directors working today.

2. Moonlight
They don’t make movies like this very often, but this saga in the life of a young man is a thing of pure beauty. A haunting and powerful tale of self-discovery, I couldn’t stop thinking about this movie for days after it ended.

3. Sing Street
Criminally underrated, I found this to be an inspiring tale of finding your voice. Personal and intimate but so much fun, with one of the best movie soundtracks I’ve heard in years. “Drive it Like You Stole it” should have been the song of the summer!

4. Hacksaw Ridge
A moving character study with some of the most powerful war scenes ever put on film. I have no shame in saying this: Hacksaw Ridge is the best war film since Saving Private Ryan.

5. Hell or High Water
Surprise of the year to me. I didn’t expect much from this film, but I was hooked from the first scene. This is a story that’s been done time and time again, but with it’s contemporary western spin, its brilliant pacing, and its fully fleshed out characters, Hell or High Water is a cut above the rest.

6. Captain America: Civil War
This film is proof that comic book movies can be more than just noise and explosions. With serious dramatic stakes and mind-blowing action scenes with actual purpose, Civil War is not only one of the best films of 2016, it’s without question one of the best superhero movies ever made. And that airport scene…

7. Nocturnal Animals
Tom Ford’s long awaited follow up to his 2009 directorial debut, A Single Man, does not disappoint. Nocturnal Animals is a beautifully crafted multilayered tale of revenge. And as Michael Shannon does so very often, he walks away with this movie.

8. The Edge of Seventeen
When was the last time we got a great 80’s style teen comedy? Hailee Steinfeld and Woody Harrelson play off each other perfectly and give us some of the funniest scenes of the year.

9. Hunt for the Wilderpeople
Taika Waititi is one of the best creative forces working in comedy today. Even when the movie is at its funniest, Waiti sprinkles moments of real depth and poignancy to give us one of the most charming films of the year.

10. Arrival
One of the best science fiction movies of the last ten years. Hands down.

Lawrence Milano, Cinema Assistant

Below are my top 10 favorite films from 2016 that are worth mentioning. This was an amazing year for cinema as we saw a terrifying art house horror film get mainstream recognition, an uncomfortable satire on online dating and relationships, farting corpses, and a musical that may be one most delightful films ever made.

La La Land
Sing Street
The Lobster
The Witch
Moonlight
Hunt for the Wilderpeople
Jackie
Swiss Army Man
The Conjuring 2
Nocturnal Animals

Addyson Young, Cinema Assistant

1. Hunt for The Wilderpeople
The scenery is breathtaking, the writing is witty, and it’s brought to you by Taiki Waititi, creator of Flight of the Concords.

2. La La Land
I’m still listening to this soundtrack on repeat. This is a very close second to Hunt for the Wilderpeople. Can it be #1.5?

3. Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them
This Ravenclaw was very happy with this film. There’s magic in New York in the 1920’s…and Snifter.

4. Jackie
Natalie Portman’s performance in this film is sure to get her an Oscar Nomination.

5. Swiss Army Man
One of the strangest movies I have had the pleasure of viewing. A heartfelt comedy about a farting corpse, what’s not to love?

6. Moonlight
Another drama that will definitely be getting an Oscar nomination.

7. Zootopia
I was really impressed with Disney’s message in this film. It tackles race and diversity in a way that reaches kids and adult alike.

8. Whiskey Tango Foxtrot
Tina Fey and Martin Freeman, great balance of drama and comedy.

9. Moana
Auli’i Cavalho has an incredible voice. Another fantastic Disney soundtrack.

10. Rogue One
This probably would have gone up higher on the list had someone explained to me before the film that this was NOT the sequel to The Force Awakens…

Robert Kilker, Cinema Committee/host of Tuesday Talkbacks with Bob Kilker

With the opportunity to host a weekly film discussion series, I’ve been fortunate enough to see a lot of films in 2016. However, I haven’t seen everything, so I couldn’t consider certain likely contenders (sorry, Fences!). Although I think many of the positions on my list are easily interchangeable, I feel strongly about Moonlight at number one. No other film this year quite matches its combination of beautiful cinematography, skillful writing, and affecting performances.

1. Moonlight
2. La La Land
3. Sing Street
4. Arrival
5. Manchester by the Sea
6. Hell or High Water
7. The Witch
8. Don’t Think Twice
9. Hidden Figures
10. Jackie

Lauren Tocci, Cinema Committee

In looking back at the year in film there are three films (and one honorable mention) that stand apart: La La Land, Manchester by the Sea, and 10 Cloverfield Lane.

The easiest to jump to of course is La La Land. There is no other way to express it other than to say that film is just a pure delight and a cinephile’s dream. The screening I saw of this was a week after its wide release and the theater erupted in applause. In my experiences, such fervor is saved for midnight showings of fanboy fare; there is something just special about this film.

Although completely different in tone, Manchester by the Sea is a contender right next to La La Land. Someone said to me before I saw it that it’s “just good, solid filmmaking” and that proved true. It is shot beautifully and is anchored in heartbreaking and genuine performances. The melodramatics are avoided in favor of earnest meditations on grief and healing, including the line from a film this year that punched me in the gut (no spoilers here).

The third film I chose might seem like a sharp departure, but was my favorite theater experience this year. 10 Cloverfield Lane is claustrophobic, gripping, and Mary Elizabeth Winstead just rules. John Goodman’s performance per usual is layered and fantastic. It’s a film cliche, but I was quite literally on the edge of my seat.

My honorable mention (because a top four feels awkward) goes to Don’t Think Twice. The film was a total surprise to me. I don’t pretend to know the world of improv and sketch comedy. As all good film does, I was given a glimpse into a world to provide a deeper meaning of something I only knew at the surface. When can I walk away from a film with a little more understanding of someone’s experience, that is a special moment.

Catherine Ford, Cinema Committee

Moonlight is my favorite film of 2016 and La La Land 2nd. The rest are in no particular order of preference or ranking.

Moonlight
Wonderful film making. A rare gem. It touches upon race, bullying, poverty, and sexuality with style and grace that stays with you long after you leave the theatre. Had to see it twice.

La La Land
A musical and so much more. Beautifully acted and tender story that keeps you wanting more. Magical!!

Loving
It plays like a novel as the film shares this true story of true love despite the odds. Strong performances both subtle and impressive.

Jackie
Natalie Portman gives a stellar performance. It gives some insight to a very historic time in our country and most memorable personality of Jackie Kennedy.

Manchester by the Sea
There are many emotions that you experience during this film. Life with highs and very lows is shared by strong performances by Casey Affleck and supporting cast.

Fences
Denzel Washington and Viola Davis give stunning performances in this film that is highly dramatic and moving. Strong screen play that respects the play from which it is based.

Sing Street
Both touching and fun. A delight. Love the music, characters, and 1980’s Dublin.

The Beatles: Eight Days a Week – The Touring Years
The documentary honors the music and offers unfamiliar footage. Not very deep insight, but it’s the Beatles.

Florence Foster Jenkins
Light hearted but tender movie that I found very enjoyable. Meryl Streep is wonderful and Hugh Grant gives a sweet performance as well.

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them
I found it to be charming and enjoyable. Interesting storyline with references to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter which I am a fan and that makes a difference.

Courtney Sposato, Cinema Committee

1. Arrival
As a sci-fi fan and a professional editor, this film blew me away. It was expertly edited, acted, photographed, and directed. I’m still thinking about it months later.

2. Moonlight
Intimate and brilliantly acted, this film really hit me deeply. I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything quite like it.

3. La La Land
The nostalgia of this one really got to me. I’ve been a life-long fan of musicals, and felt completely enthralled the entire time. Yes, they aren’t expert singers, but it was real and raw and I loved that about it.

4. Sing Street
I was so surprised by how much I loved this movie. It made me feel hopeful and inspired, I hope everyone watches this.

5. Don’t Think Twice
There seems to be a theme in most of my favorite movies of the year, and this one is no different. It’s about dreamers not just dreaming, but working really hard to achieve those dreams. As an aspiring director, this movie made me feel jealous that I haven’t yet really put myself out there as an artist.

6. Zootopia
Love the message of this one. Feminist and shining a light on inequality and prejudice.

7. Jackie
Natalie Portman was a powerhouse and I was left reeling from her performance

8. Hell or High Water
I’m a sucker for a neo western or anything about southern families, so this one fit that bill. Really well acted and shot.

9. Noctural Animals
Beautiful to look at, and the story within a story was another neo western which I’m a sucker for.

THE RED CARPET PARTY: Presented by Molly’s Irish Grille
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 26
Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas

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