FEBRUARY-MARCH 2020

POURPOUR YOURYOUR HEARTHEART OUTOUT Valentine’s Day at the US Space and Rocket Center and many other events in the Huntsville area PAGE 2 ROCKET CITY SCENE & HAPPENINGS FEBRUARY-MARCH 2020 Contents

4 POUR YOUR HEART OUT 5 UPCOMING FUN EVENTS 6 ONGOING FUN 11 MUST-SEE CONCERTS

13 MARS MUSIC HALL OPENS UPCOMING EVENTS 14 TRASH PANDAS AUDITIONS Pages 5-9 18 THE THEATER SCENE 19 HUNTSVILLE BALLET OFF STAGE 20 ENCORE OPERA THEATRE 21 THE ART SCENE 21 YAM: 2020 23 NEIGHBORS: CARNIVAL FUN IN DECATUR

CONCERTS Pages 11-17

EDITOR John Few [email protected]

GENERAL MANAGER French Salter

ADVERTISING SALES Donna Counts 256-714-7152 [email protected]

Rocket City Scene & Happenings is a product of Tennessee Valley Media, Inc 7734 Madison Blvd 15, Huntsville, Al 35806 THEATER & ART Copyright 2020 Pages 18-23 ROCKET CITY SCENE & HAPPENINGS FEBRUARY-MARCH 2020 PAGE 3

Welcome to the February-March edition of Rocket City Scene & Happenings for the Huntsville and Madison area. Inside this special issue you will find information about dozens of events scheduled throughout the next few weeks. Be sure to go to www.huntsville.org for listings of even more events. We will also feature these events, along with any additions on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/rocketcityscene and at www.madisoncountyrecord.com. Sweetheart ❤ clothing ❤ shoes ❤ jewelry ❤ purses Deals! 1 - 4 5 4 9 7500 Memorial Pkwy 12 32 Indigo’s at TheAvenue months 1

- Huntsville,AL35802 Monday-Saturday

6 same as 201Jefferson St N•DowntownHuntsville 5 4 256-880-2810 10:00 -6:00 cash 9

2 WAC 209B 2ndAve SE •DowntownDecatur MYINDIGOS.COM 3 www.sabghijewelers.com PAGE 4 ROCKET CITY SCENE & HAPPENINGS FEBRUARY-MARCH 2020 US Space and Rocket Center to host “Pour Your Heart Out” By STAFF REPORTS A cash bar will also be available, and dressy casual attire suggested. HUNTSVILLE - If you are looking The Lamont Landers Band, a crowd-pleas- for someplace unique, romantic with true ing musical delight, will set the mood with Huntsville flavor, the U.S. Space and Rock- the joyful sounds of Soul, Funk and R&B. et Center is your Valentine destination. The Paper Petals Co.will also be on hand The U.S. Space & Rocket Center invites for a little extra treat. you to the hottest Valentine ticket in town, Paper florist, Thao Hoang combines her their 6th annual “Pour Your Heart Out” cel- love of art and flowers by creating beautiful ebration, Friday, Feb. 14, 7 to 11 p.m. paper flowers made from crepe paper from Celebrate with an evening of food, drink places like Germany and Italy. and live music in the Davidson Center for She will share her love of flower making Space Exploration, then step outside where and to offer a variety of flowers for sale for our partners from Sloss Furnaces of Bir- your sweetheart. These flowers won’t wilt mingham will help you create your own or die and will last for many years. Valentine keepsake. Tickets are $50 per person. Members Guests carve their own designs into a get in for $45. Additional tiles may be pur- 4-inch-square or heart shaped sand and res- chased for $12.50 each. in mold and the Sloss metal sculptors fill Pour Your Heart Out will go on rain or these molds with molten scrap iron from a shine. 75-pound coke-fired furnace. Once cooled, For more information, go to www.rock- the tiles are an upcycled work of art. etcenter.com/heart Join us for Valentine’sDay! $3 Off

LUwith a$15NCminimumpurchHase. 11am-3pm•Mustpresent ad FreshItalian Meals ♦ HomemadeBread ♦ Beer &Wine 1420 Paramount Dr., Suite1,Huntsville 256-489-8883 •terranovarestaurant.com Sloss Furnaces of Birmingham will help you create your own Valentine keepsake. 329452-1 ROCKET CITY SCENE & HAPPENINGS FEBRUARY-MARCH 2020 PAGE 5 Introducing our Chocolate Lover’s Gift Tin

Aspecialgift of milk, dark and white chocolate coveredpecans just for St. Valentine’sDay

Prepare for cuteness overload! The Krewe of Barkus will bring up the tail end of the Annu- al Mardi Gras Parade in Huntsville on Feb. 22. See page 8.

806 Bank St, Decatur,AL 256-353-1880 1 - 5 5 4 9 2 Upcoming www.tnvalleypecan.com 3 Pre-Valentine’sBash! Events Thursday, February 13th • 6pm to 8pm WINE IN THE WINTER that gives guests time to make silent February 7 auction bids, meet the cutest fur babies Say it with 6-8 PM there ever were, and enjoy the company Huntsville Botanical Garden of friends from across North Alabama. 4747 Bob Wallace Avenue This year’s silent auction includes many An Exotic Dinner Admission charged dog-related items, fine jewelry, local art, www.hsvbg.org/event/wine-in-the-winter trips, animal portraits, veterinary services, Love Bites & It’s an upscale food and wine tasting and much more. A “live” auction will give event at Huntsville Botanical Garden in the guests an opportunity to win tickets to the Great Live Grand Hall. Ticket holders will experience 2020 Westminster Dog Show and a VISA food samples from some of the area’s card for trip expenses. A seated dinner Music best restaurants and wine from wineries and the Very Important Dog (VID) runway from across the country. This is a 21+ only presentation will close out the night. event and ID is required. 3COURSEDINNER VON BREWSKI BEER FESTIVAL 31ST ANNUAL DOG BALL February 8 $25.99 to $55.99 February 8 1-5 PM Starting: 5:45 PM Von Braun Center South Hall Make reservations now! Von Braun Center South Hall 700 Monroe Street 1426 PARAMOUNTDRIVE 700 Monroe Street Admission charged, food available SUITEA HUNTSVILLE www.thedogball.org for purchase. 256-971-5111 The evening begins with a social hour CONTINUED ON PAGE 7 329450-1 PAGE 6 ROCKET CITY SCENE & HAPPENINGS FEBRUARY-MARCH 2020

BIKES & BREWS THURSDAY NIGHT SWING

BEAKS AND BARKS Drink Specials, craft and domestic beer DOWNTOWN WALKING TOURS Through February 29 on tap, and food specials PLUS a $15 Recurring weekly on Sunday, Saturday Recurring daily wristband that gets you UNLIMITED Roller Scenethat Walking Tours 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Skating, Rock Wall & Laser Tag. Buy a Admission charged Huntsville Botanical Garden drink from the bar and get free tokens. www.scenethat.net/tour-choices 4747 Bob Wallace Avenue Choose from a number of tours to learn (256) 830-4447 THURSDAY NIGHT SWING more about Huntsville’s history. Denise Admission charged Recurring weekly on Thursday Swain is passionate about research, story- www.hsvbg.org/event/beaks-barks Beginner/core lesson 6:30-7:30 pm, inter- telling and keeping the legacy of significant Calling all dog lovers and bird-watchers: mediate/exploring lesson 7:30 - 8:30 pm, people and places alive. Beaks and Barks is back at the Garden! open dancing 8:30 - 10 pm From mid-January to the end of February, Flying Monkey Theatre BURRITT ON THE MOUNTAIN’S dogs are welcome to visit the Garden every 2211 Seminole Drive TUESDAYS @ 2 31ST ANNUAL DOG BALL - February 8 day. Enjoy a stroll along our dedicated Admission charged Recurring weekly on Tuesday pet-friendly paths or a game of fetch in the www.lowemill.net 2-3 PM no-leash zone. Admission charged plus $2 Come dance and have fun! No partner Burritt on the Mountain per pooch. You can also purchase a Paw required. If you haven’t already heard, 3101 Burritt Drive Pass for $10 to use the entire season. Thursday Night Swing is back and better Admission charged than ever! It’s bringing back a weekly open www.burrittonthemountain.com ROCKET CITY ROVER MIXER RIDES dance venue and lesson space. They are Join Burritt staff members each Tuesday Recurring weekly on going to be throwing down tunes by some afternoon at 2 p.m. for a special treat as Thursday, Friday, Saturday of the best DJ’s in Huntsville! they demonstrate different skills and crafts. Thu - Sat at 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM Rocket City Rover BIKES & BREWS PRESERVE PALS - NATURE EXPLORE Downtown Huntsville Recurring monthly on the 1st Friday FAMILIES’ CLUB Admission charged, reservations required. From: 6:00 PM to 12:00 AM Recurring weekly on Tuesday www.rocketcityrover.com Downtown Huntsville 10 AM-1 PM The Rocket City Rover offers regularly No admission charged Hays Nature Preserve scheduled pub crawls Thursdays through www.facebook.com/groups/bikesbrewshsv 7153 Hwy 431 South Saturdays at 6pm and 8pm. Other out This leisurely group bicycle ride around No admission charged of this world rides include progressive downtown Huntsville is carefully routed to www.facebook.com dinners, brunch rides, spin classes, and avoid major roads and hit the hot spots Hays Nature Preserve offers a way to customizable private tours. on the Downtown Craft Beer Trail while connect with your family in nature! Drop in the group stays together for safety. There to the natural playground to enjoy a new THURSDAY MADNESS are usually about 5 one-hour stops. The nature-themed activity each week with your Recurring monthly on the 1st Thursday route changes every month so be sure child. Clothes that can get a bit wet or dirty From: 8:00 PM to 12:00 AM to check out the Facebook page for the are recommended. In case of inclement Insanity Complex latest information. Riders are encouraged weather, check Operation Green Team’s 100 Skate Park Drive to be decked out with lights or other fun social media channels/platforms for notice Enjoy the Insanity Complex adult-style. accessories. of cancellation.

Ongoing Fun Ongoing ROCKET CITY ROVER MIXER RIDES BURRITT ON THE MOUNTAIN’S TUESDAYS @ 2 ROCKET CITY SCENE & HAPPENINGS FEBRUARY-MARCH 2020 PAGE 7

31ST ANNUAL DOG BALL - February 8 www.vonbrauncenter.com POUR YOUR HEART OUT AT THE Your Von Brewski Beer Fest ticket in- US SPACE AND ROCKET CENTER cludes a souvenir glass that doubles as a February 14 tasting glass when sampling not only from 7-10 PM

Huntsville brewers but from brewers across U.S. Space & Rocket Center 329453-1 the country. There will be live music and One Tranquility Base food available for purchase. A non-sampling www.rocketcenter.com/heart ticket is available at a discounted price as The U.S. Space & Rocket Center invites well as a fully stocked bar with drinks avail- you to the hottest Valentine ticket in town, able for purchase. Attendees must be 21+ the 6th annual “Pour Your Heart Out” cele- and children are not allowed. Tickets are bration. Celebrate with an evening of food, available at the VBC or on Ticketmaster. drink and live music in the Davidson Center for Space Exploration, then step outside where partners from Sloss Furnaces of Birmingham will help you create your own Valentine keepsake. Guests carve their own designs into a 4-inch-square or heart shaped sand and resin mold and the Sloss metal sculptors fill these molds with molten scrap iron from a 75-pound coke-fired furnace. Once cooled, the tiles are an upcycled work of art. A cash bar will also be available, and dressy casual attire suggested. Pour Your VON BREWSKI BEER FESTIVAL Heart Out will go on rain or shine. February 8 The Lamont Landers Band – This crowd-pleasing band brings the joyful sounds of Soul, Funk and R&B. The Paper Petals Co. – Paper florist, Thao Hoang combines her love of art and flowers by creating beautiful paper flowers made from crepe paper from places like Germany and Italy. She will be on hand to share her love of flower making and to offer a variety of flowers for sale for your sweetheart! These flowers won’t wilt or die and will last for many years. 1 -

WINE IN THE WINTER 3 6

CONTINUED ON PAGE 8 4 9

February 7 2 3 PAGE 8 ROCKET CITY SCENE & HAPPENINGS FEBRUARY-MARCH 2020

DISNEY DANCE UPON A DREAM March 12

ANNUAL MARDI Spend your Leap Day at Goldsmith-Schiff- GRAS PARADE man Wildlife Sanctuary! The Leap Day February 22 guided hike will be from 9:30-11:30am. 4:30 pm The hike will be an easy pace with plenty of Downtown Huntsville time to enjoy the surrounding nature. Meet No admission charged at the Taylor Road entrance parking lot. www.mardigrashuntsville.com Don’t forget binoculars/camera, water & Beads, floats, music - what more could shoes that can get dirty. All ages welcome you ask for this time of year?! The parade but strollers not recommended. will start and stop on Meridian Street, close to The Furniture Factory and The Lum- beryard and parade through the streets of downtown Huntsville. The Krewe of Barkus will bring up the tail end of the parade.

DOWNTON TABBY HIGH TEA February 29 3-5 PM Yellowhammer Brewery “The Lost Highway Lounge” 2600 Clinton Avenue West No admission charged, donations encouraged DOWNTON TABBY HIGH TEA Feline fanciers are invited to enjoy a February 29 delightful afternoon high tea. Sip a lovely cup of tea, enjoy a pastry while you cuddle with adorable foster kitties. This is a family friendly event. Reservations ARE STRONG- LY encouraged through their FB webpage, as space will be limited.

LEAP DAY HIKE February 29 9:30 AM-11:30 AM Goldsmith Schiffman Wildlife Sanctuary Taylor Road and Terry Drake LEAP DAY HIKE No admission charged February 29 ROCKET CITY SCENE & HAPPENINGS FEBRUARY-MARCH 2020 PAGE 9

HUDSONALPHA TECH 800 Hudson Way NW CHALLENGE - HATCH Admission charged March 7-8 www.eventbrite.com VALENTINES HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology In this HudsonAlpha Spark: Weekend Paul Propst Center Wonders event, you will search your own FORTWO 800 Hudson Way DNA for the presence or absence of an Admission charged. Alu element. This 300-letter segment of FEBRUARY 14 &15 www.hudsonalpha.org/techchallenge genetic code is either present or absent The HudsonAlpha Tech Challenge at a particular chromosome location that ❤ ONEMOZZA BREAD ❤❤ (HATCH), hosted by HudsonAlpha, Urban you’ll learn to track down. While the pres- ❤APPETIZER, TWOHOUSE SALADS, Engine and Acclinate Genetics, is a life ence or absence of this particular section TWOPASTA OR BAKEDPASTA ENTREES, sciences hackathon that brings together DOES NOT reveal your ancestry or give TWODRINKS ANDONE DESSERT students and professionals who attempt to you medical information, you do get the ALLFOR $29.99 solve challenges using emerging technol- unique opportunity to experience the DNA Dine in only.Taxes notincluded. ogy and apply it to biotech and the life extraction and analysis process first-hand 256-726-9006 -www.tellinis.com No other discounts validwiththisoffer. 1 1 sciences. in a state-of-the-art lab. This experience 1- also includes a tour of HudsonAlpha and a 1515 PerimeterPkwy•Huntsville•256-726-9006 •Sun-Thurs 10:30AM-9:30PM •Fri &Sat 10:30AM-10:00PM 45 DISNEY DANCE UPON A DREAM one-hour break to enjoy lunch off-campus. 329 March 12 HudsonAlpha Spark offers experiences Von Braun Center designed around the busy schedule of pro- Mark C. Smith Concert Hall fessionals. You’ll get the chance to explore The all-new Disney Dance Upon a Dream the cutting-edge genetics research taking stars singer, actress and dancer Macken- place right here in the Rocket City. Come zie Ziegler. The show takes the cast on get to know how genomics will shape the an electrifying journey to find their own world of tomorrow. beat in a fast-moving world that features a soundtrack of Disney’s greatest hits BUY•SELL•TRADE remixed and reimagined. The original story unfolds around a present-day heroine and steps into the magical world of Disney that includes video and music from the most beloved films, including Beauty and the Beast, Moana and Cinderella. 700 Monroe Street 309JordanLaneNW•thefretshop.com 256-430-4729

HUDSONALPHA SPARK: 329458-1 WEEKEND WONDERS March 21 From: 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology HUDSONALPHA SPARK: WEEKEND WONDERS Paul Propst Center March 21

HolidayHoliday2019 EventsEvents and Gift Guide

You can now keep up with us on Facebook page at www.facebook.com/rocketcityscene ANNUAL MARDI GRAS PARADE - February 22 PAGE 10 ROCKET CITY SCENE & HAPPENINGS FEBRUARY-MARCH 2020

HSV launches Airport Artway and Community

Art Wall D1 ICE HOCKEY: UAH CHARGERS V ALASKA ICE HOCKEY: HAVOC V KNOXVILLE HUNTSVILLE – Huntsville International February 7-8 February 29 Airport unveiled a new attraction last week. Puck drops at 7:07 PM Puck drops at 7:00 PM The grand opening of the Airport Artway Von Braun Center Propst Arena Von Braun Center Propst Arena and the Community Art Wall was held last 700 Monroe Street 700 Monroe Street Admission charged Admission charged Wednesday morning, followed by an artist www.uahchargers.com www.huntsvillehavoc.com reception that evening. For the first exhibits, the Airport Artway’s D1 ICE HOCKEY: UAH CHARGERS V ALASKA ICE HOCKEY: HAVOC V EVANSVILLE THE CHARLIE DANIELS BAND - March 13 “Friends and Family of the Carnegie Visual February 7-8 March 6 – 7 Arts Center” will showcase paintings, sculp- Puck drops at 7:07 PM Puck drops at 7:00 PM tures and mixed media pieces by 15 local Von Braun Center Propst Arena Von Braun Center Propst Arena artists. Artists include Samuel Barnett, Mitch 700 Monroe Street 700 Monroe Street Koon, Gayle Strider, Sloane Bibb, Robert Admission charged Admission charged Belcher, Alison Turner Belcher, Mary H www.uahchargers.com huntsvillehavoc.com Reed, Robin Roberts, Cym Doggett, Shelley ICE HOCKEY: HAVOC V EVANSVILLE ICE HOCKEY: HAVOC V MACON Paulson, Kay McWhorter, Kay Lewis, Dari- February 8 March 13-14 ana Dervis Art, Rickie Higgins and Frances Puck drops at 3:00 PM Puck drops at 7:00 PM Tate. Von Braun Center Propst Arena Von Braun Center Propst Arena The Community Art Wall’s “Therapy 700 Monroe Street 700 Monroe Street Through Art” will feature works created by Admission charged Admission charged the Carnegie’s outreach program at the Men- www.huntsvillehavoc.com www.huntsvillehavoc.com tal Health Center of North Alabama and un- der the direction of the late Jason Sharp. ICE HOCKEY: HAVOC V ROANOKE ICE HOCKEY: HAVOC V PENSACOLA The display includes a variety of medi- February 16 March 17 ums like traditional paintings, sculpture, and Puck drops at 5:00 PM Puck drops at 7:00 PM Von Braun Center Propst Arena Von Braun Center Propst Arena mixed media. 700 Monroe Street 700 Monroe Street The exhibits are free and will change quar- Admission charged Admission charged terly. The Airport Artway is located on the huntsvillehavoc.com www.huntsvillehavoc.com second floor of the airport’s terminal build- ing, and the Community Art Wall is located ICE HOCKEY: HAVOC V PENSACOLA ICE HOCKEY: HAVOC V PEORIA in the breezeway connecting the airport to the February 21 March 20 parking garage. Puck drops at 7:00 PM Puck drops at 7:00 PM The Airport Artway is a quarterly exhibit Von Braun Center Propst Arena Von Braun Center Propst Arena displayed on the second floor of Huntsville 700 Monroe Street 700 Monroe Street International Airport’s terminal building. Admission charged Admission charged www.huntsvillehavoc.com www.huntsvillehavoc.com This area is located just above the airline tick- et counters and baggage claim. D1 ICE HOCKEY: UAH CHARGERS ICE HOCKEY: HAVOC V PENSACOLA The new Community Art Wall is located in V BOWLING GREEN March 26 the breezeway that connects the airport to the February 28-29 Puck drops at 7:00 PM parking garage on the second level. This area Puck drops Fri at 7:07 PM, Sat at 3:07 PM Von Braun Center Propst Arena will display art created by budding artists in Von Braun Center Arena 700 Monroe Street the North Alabama community and is a re- 700 Monroe Street Admission charged minder that anyone can be an artist. Admission charged www.huntsvillehavoc.com Artist receptions will be held each time a www.uahchargers.com new series is unveiled. the VBC at Hockey ROCKET CITY SCENE & HAPPENINGS FEBRUARY-MARCH 2020 PAGE 11

THE CHARLIE DANIELS BAND - March 13 BEL CANTO TRIO - February 15 Top must

MIDLAND - LET IT ROLL TOUR see concerts February 7 MIDLAND - LET IT ROLL TOUR Von Braun Center Mars Music Hall February 7 700 Monroe Street 8 PM Admission Charged Von Braun Center Mars Music Hall www.vonbrauncenter.com 700 Monroe Street Rumours is the country’s premier Fleet- www.vonbrauncenter.com wood Mac tribute band. Based in Atlan- Hailing from Dripping Springs, TX lead ta, GA, Rumours captures the energy of vocalist Mark Wystrach fronts Midland’s Fleetwood Mac at the height of their career ALTER BRIDGE WALK THE SKY TOUR rich sound that is rounded out with lead by blending perfect harmonies, precise February 11 guitarist, Jess Carson, and bass player, instrumentation, and a visually engaging Cameron Duddy. Rooted in tradition in both stage show. sound and style, the trio initially garnered attention playing clubs in the region. ALTER BRIDGE WALK Their critically-acclaimed freshman , THE SKY TOUR ON THE ROCKS (Big Machine Records), February 11 features 13 tracks with songwriting credits 7 PM from each member alongside hit makers, Von Braun Center Mars Music Hall Shane McAnally, and Josh 700 Monroe Street www.vonbrauncenter.com RUMOURS: A FLEETWOOD Alter Bridge will be joined by Clint Lowery MAC TRIBUTE and DeepFall. February 8 at 8 PM CONTINUED ON PAGE 13 ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL February 12 PAGE 12 ROCKET CITY SCENE & HAPPENINGS FEBRUARY-MARCH 2020 Stand-up comedian Andy Hendrickson to headline Madison Hospital Fundraiser By STAFF REPORTS you can catch Andy at The Comedy and Magic Club and in New York City, Andy MADISON – Since opening in 2012, appears regularly at the most popular more than 1,200 babies are born at Mad- venues including the world famous Com- ison Hospital each year. With the con- edy Cellar. Internationally, Andy has per- tinued population boom in the Madison formed at clubs and festivals throughout area, that number is sure to rise. the world, including Canada, England, An upcoming fundraiser will provide Holland and Ireland. 25 new Nära cribs for the hospital. The Huntsville Hospital Foundation will host About Huntsville Hospital Foundation the annual Party in the Park on Thursday. Huntsville Hospital Foundation, a not- Feb. 27 beginning at 5:30 p.m. at Hexa- for-profit organization, is the fundraising gon, 305 Intergraph Way in Madison. arm of Huntsville and Madison Hospi- Comedian Andy Hendrickson, who tals. It works to strengthen relationships has wowed audiences across the nation between the hospitals and the communi- and appeared on David Letterman, The ty. The Foundation accepts gifts—both Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson individual and corporate—on the hos- and NBC’s Last Comic Standing, will be pitals’ behalf, and works to fund pres- headlining the event. ent and future equipment and program In addition to laughs, guests will enjoy needs. For more information, call (256) a delicious buffet dinner, a silent auction 265-8077 or visit huntsvillehospitalfoun- and the chance to win an exciting gift dation.org. Andy Hendrickson will headline this year’s Party in the Park, hosted by Huntsville card treasure chest giveaway. Hospital Foundation. “We have worn out our current bassi- nets,” said Mary Lynne Wright, Madison Hospital president. “These much-needed Nära open cribs promote mother-to-in- fant closeness in a safe and easy-to-use way.” Tickets for Party in the Park can be purchased online at bidpal.net/par- ty2020, or by calling (256) 265-8077. Tickets are $75 per person and include food and entertainment. Must be age 21 or older to attend. Tickets will not be sold at the door.

About Andy Hendrickson Andy Hendrickson is a comedian, writer and actor who built his career in New York City and now resides in Los Angeles. He has a clever, conversational style and has been engaging audiences for well over a decade. Since 2013, he’s had multiple TV appearances including: The Late Show with David Letterman, The Late Late Show with Craig Fergu- son, and Gotham Comedy Live. In LA ROCKET CITY SCENE & HAPPENINGS FEBRUARY-MARCH 2020 PAGE 13

The VBC’s newest venue Mars Music Hall opened Jan. 3 for its first perfor- mance, a concert by Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit. DIANA ROSS - February 25

ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL Concert Hall February 12 700 Monroe Street Mars Music Hall opens, 8 PM www.hso.org Von Braun Center Mars Music Hall Robert Kaip and Prentiss Hobbs, guest 700 Monroe Street trombonists join HSO in performing works Rhythm on Monroe is next Admission Charged of the French composer. The HSO is the www.vonbrauncenter.com oldest, continuously operating professional By STAFF REPORTS orchestra in the state of Alabama. The CELEBRITY CONCERT SERIES Orchestra’s genesis is intricately linked HUNTSVILLE - It’s open! The BEL CANTO TRIO with the arrival of Wernher von Braun and VBC’s newest venue Mars Music Hall February 15 his German rocket team, marking the opened last month for its first perfor- 5-7 PM CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 mance, a concert by Jason Isbell and the Trinity United Methodist Church 400 Unit on Jan. 3. Nearly 1,500 people 607 Airport Road Admission charged packed the venue for the opening night. www.hsvchambermusic.org/events The open-floor plan, with a balcony The Huntsville Chamber Music Guild has overlooking an oversized stage provid- been presenting concerts in Huntsville for ed a more intimate setting and great 67 years, bringing Carnegie Hall, Lincoln acoustics. The next night, Jan, 4, fea- Center and the Metropolitan Opera to tured The Black Symphony presenting Huntsville. Columbia Artists celebrates the music of Nirvana and Pearl Jam. the Bel Canto Trio’s 70th anniversary with The $12 million Mars Music Hall a tour featuring today’s internationally is located at the Von Braun Center in acclaimed rising opera stars: soprano downtown Huntsville. To see the full Julie Adams, tenor Joshua Guerrero, and WALK OFF THE EARTH February 21 lineup of announced performances and bass-baritone Nicholas Brownlee with mu- made cocktails that guests will be able sic director Christopher Allen. The trio per- to learn about purchasing tickets, visit forms the original program that toured the marsmusichall.com. to enjoy while sitting near fire pits at United States in the 1947/1948 season Rhythm on Monroe, a full-service the rooftop bar overlooking Big Spring with some of operas greatest arias, duets restaurant and rooftop bar at the VBC, Park. and trios from Rigoletto, Faust, I lombardi, will open in March. The addition of these two new venues La traviata, Manon Lescaut, La bohème, Il Rhythm, aptly named for the differ- at the VBC is part of an ongoing expan- barbiere di Siviglia and many others. ent types of musical performances host- sion project, approved by the Huntsville ed at the VBC on the corner of Clinton City Council in June 2017, which will SYMPHONY CLASSICAL SERIES: Avenue and Monroe Street, will serve ultimately include a new ballroom and RAVEL AND TROMBONES multi-purpose space; renovation of the February 15 locally-sourced ingredients and provide fresh urban fare. It will feature craft existing North Hall; the addition of Starting: 7:30 PM SIERRA HULL Von Braun Center Mark C. Smith February 22 brews, a curated wine list, and hand- breakout meeting spaces and more. PAGE 14 ROCKET CITY SCENE & HAPPENINGS FEBRUARY-MARCH 2020

Rocket City Trash Pandas to hold National Anthem auditions MADISON - The Rocket City Trash not receive a time should submit an au- Pandas are holding National Anthem audi- dio file with an a cappella rendition of the SYMPHONY POPS SERIES: WE HAVE LIFTOFF! - February 29 tions at Toyota Field on Saturday, March 7. “Star-Spangled Banner” to rfernandez@ beginning of an era of sensational growth www.vonbrauncenter.com Individuals who are interested in per- trashpandasbaseball.com. in our city and creating a unique synthesis Thanks to their die-hard, loyal fan base forming the National Anthem for the in- Groups of 20 or more interested in per- between old and new, cherished traditions and their younger generation offspring, augural season must register and receive forming before Trash Pandas game can and unprecedented progress TESLA continues to tour to sold-out crowds a specific audition time. Auditions will be contact the Trash Pandas group sales rep- concerts/ravel-and-trombones. around the world. scheduled on a first-come, first-served ba- resentative, Brennan Patrick at bpatrick@ sis. To register for an audition spot, please trashpandasbaseball.com. TESLA: SHOCK TOUR WALK OFF THE EARTH contact Ricky Fernandez at rfernandez@ Opening Night of the Trash Pandas In- February 19 February 21 trashpandasbaseball.com. augural Season at Toyota Field in Town Starting: 8:00 PM Starting: 7:30 PM Those who are unable to attend or did Madison is Wednesday, April 15. Von Braun Center Mars Music Hall Von Braun Center Mars Music Hall 700 Monroe Street 700 Monroe Street Admission charged www.vonbrauncenter.com Catch the Canadian indie-pop band on its Here We Go! tour.

SIERRA HULL February 22 Shows at 7 PM and 9 PM Tangled String Studios RR7 @ Lowe Mill A&E 2211 Seminole Drive, SW Admission charged TESLA: SHOCK TOUR www.tangledstringstudio.square.site February 19 Hull began as a bluegrass thrush, a teen prodigy. Krauss called her to the Grand Ole Opry stage when Hull was 11-years-old. Two years later, she signed with Rounder Records, and soon became known as a remarkable mandolin player, a tone-true vocalist, and a recording artist of high The lights are on! Toyota stadium in Town Madison flipped on the lights illu- order. She made two acclaimed . minating the stadium for the first time in Jan. The home opener for the Minor She played Carnegie Hall at age 12, the League baseball team, the Rocket City Trash Pandas, is set for April 15. Ralph Kennedy Center at age 16, and the White Nelson, the CEO of the Trash Pandas (pictured above), said the substantial House at age 20. She also became the completion of the new $46 million stadium and multi-use venue is just days first bluegrass musician to receive a Presi- away. For more information, check out the Rocket City Trash Pandas on Face- dential Scholarship at the Berklee College book or go to www.milb.com/rocket-city. QUEENSRŸCHE of Music. February 25 ROCKET CITY SCENE & HAPPENINGS FEBRUARY-MARCH 2020 PAGE 15

DIANA ROSS February 25 Von Braun Center Mark C. Smith Concert Hall 700 Monroe Street Admission charged From her landmark solo career to the early days as the leader of The Supremes, Ross helped shape the sound of popular music, changing the landscape and paving the way for contemporary music.

QUEENSRŸCHE CHRIS JANSON TOMMY EMMANUEL, CGP MUSCADINE BLOODLINE February 28 March 6 March 5 February 25 8 PM Von Braun Center Mars Music Hall www.hso.org sey and the Star Trek franchise, as well as 607 Airport Road 700 Monroe Street It’s FREE, fun, and educational—for the a stunning, immersive multimedia perfor- Admission charged Admission Charged whole family! Britten’s Simple Symphonyfor mance of selections from Gustav Holst’s www.hsvchambermusic.org/events www.vonbrauncenter.com strings is a kid-friendly, bite-sized master- The Planets. The Huntsville Chamber Music Guild has The heavy metal band is joined by John 5 piece and the perfect introduction to Proko- been presenting concerts in Huntsville for and Eve to Adam. fiev’s timeless Peter and the Wolf. Learn to MUSCADINE BLOODLINE 67 years, bringing Carnegie Hall, Lincoln recognize the instruments of the orchestra March 5 Center and the Metropolitan Opera to CHRIS JANSON through the charming escapades of a Starting: 7:30 PM Huntsville. February 28 brave, mischevious young boy, his barnyard Von Braun Center Mars Music Hall Established in 2013, Quatuor Arod 8 PM friends, and one seriously hungry wolf. 700 Monroe Street comprises Jordan Victoria and Alexandre Von Braun Center Mars Music Hall www.vonbrauncenter.com Vu (violins), Tanguy Parisot (viola) and 700 Monroe Street SYMPHONY POPS SERIES: There’s a new force making major waves Samy Rachid (cello). The quartet came to Admission Charged WE HAVE LIFTOFF! in , Muscadine Bloodline. international attention after being award- www.vonbrauncenter.com February 29 Proud natives of Mobile Alabama, Gary ed First Prize at the ARD International This country singer/songwriter released Starting: 7:30 PM Stanton and Charlie Muncaster started Chamber Music Competition in Munich, his third album, Real Friends in October, Von Braun Center Mark C. Smith Concert Muscadine Bloodline in early 2016. From after already having been awarded First 2019. Hall the first time they took stage, Nashville Prize at the Carl Nielsen Chamber Music 700 Monroe Street started talking... so now, with two Billboard Competition in Copenhagen in 2015 and SYMPHONY FREE FAMILY CONCERT Admission charged charting critically acclaimed EP’s under the FNAPEC European Competition in Paris February 29 www.hso.org their belt, it’s no surprise the rest of the in 2015. Activities begin at 9:30 AM, concert at This month marks the 50th anniversary music world is quickly catching on.1 The quartet is regularly invited to per- 11:00 AM of the opening of Huntsville’s U.S. Space form at international festivals, including Von Braun Center Mark C. Smith and Rocket Center, so the HSO is fueling CELEBRITY CONCERT SERIES Verbier, Montreux, Aix-en-Provence, Men- Concert Hall up to celebrate the Rocket City’s starring QUATUOR AROD ton, Salon-de-Provence, Folle Journée de 700 Monroe Street role in aerospace achievement. Don’t miss March 6 Nantes, Heidelberg, Musikfest Bremen and Admission charged stellar themes from 2001: A Space Odys- Trinity United Methodist Church CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

CELEBRITY CONCERT SERIES - QUATUOR AROD - March 6 PAGE 16 ROCKET CITY SCENE & HAPPENINGS FEBRUARY-MARCH 2020

JILL SCOTT YONDER MOUNTAIN STRING BAND THE CHARLIE DANIELS BAND

Mozartfest Würzburg. They have upcoming JILL SCOTT mark on America’s musical landscape than engagements around the world including at March 11 Charlie Daniels. March 20 at 8 PM the Wigmore Hall, Salzburg’s Mozarteum, Von Braun Center Mark C. Smith Von Braun Center Mars Music Hall the Konzerthaus in Vienna, Amsterdam’s Concert Hall THE MOLLY RINGWALDS 700 Monroe Street Concertgebouw and the Calouste Gulben- 700 Monroe Street March 13 at 8 PM www.vonbrauncenter.com kian Foundation in Lisbon. They are also www.vonbrauncenter.com Von Braun Center Mars Music Hall Beginning with their first LP, the RIAA currently artists-in-residence at the Queen Jill Scott marks the 20th anniversary of 700 Monroe Street gold-certified “”, Band Elisabeth Music Chapel in Brussels. her debut album, Who is Jill Scott, Words and www.vonbrauncenter.com of Horses have positioned themselves as a Sounds Vol. 1, with a North American tour. Take a musical journey through the ‘80s. mainstay for more than a decade with 5 stu- TOMMY EMMANUEL, CGP dio albums in total, including Grammy-nom- March 6 YONDER MOUNTAIN STRING BAND BERT KREISCHER-THE BERTY BOY TOUR inated “”, “” pro- Von Braun Center March 12 March 14 at 7 PM duced by the legendary Glyn Johns, and most Mars Music Hall Von Braun Center Mars Music Hall Von Braun Center recently, “Why Are You Ok” exec produced by 700 Monroe Street 700 Monroe Street Mark C. Smith Concert Hall the illustrious Rick Rubin. Formed and led by www.vonbrauncenter.com www.vonbrauncenter.com 700 Monroe Street singer and songwriter , the South Tommy Emmanuel has achieved enough For 20 years, Yonder Mountain String Band Kreischer is an American stand-up come- Carolina-based band and have given us a musical milestones to satisfy several has been redefining bluegrass music, by dian, actor, writer and host who performs multitude of much-loved singles, including lifetimes. Or at least they would if he was pushing the envelope into realms of rock n’ to sold-out crowds across the country. His “The Funeral” and “No One’s Gonna Love the kind of artist who was ever satisfied. roll and improvisation. standup specials “Secret Time” and “The You”, and have played globe-spanning head- At the age of six, he was touring regional Machine” are currently streaming globally on line tours as well as shows with greats like Australia with his family band. By 30, he THE CHARLIE DANIELS BAND Netflix. Pearl Jam and . was a rock n’ roll lead guitarist burning March 13 at 7:30 PM up stadiums in Europe. At 44, he became Von Braun Center Mark C. Smith Concert Hall BLACK LABEL SOCIETY REBA MCENTIRE one of five people ever named a Certified 700 Monroe Street March 19 at 7:30 PM March 21 at 8 PM Guitar Player by his idol, music icon Chet vonbrauncenter.com Von Braun Center Mars Music Hall Von Braun Center Propst Arena Atkins. Today, he plays hundreds of sold- From his Dove Award winning gospel 700 Monroe Street 700 Monroe Street out shows every year from Nashville to albums to his genre-defining Southern rock www.vonbrauncenter.com www.vonbrauncenter.com Sydney to London. anthems and his CMA Award-winning country Zakk Wylde fronts this heavy metal band that Reba McEntire ranks as the most successful hits, few artists have left a more indelible relaunched its 2020 tour joined by Obituary. female country performer of her generation,

BERT KREISCHER THE MOLLY RINGWALDS BAND OF HORSES ROCKET CITY SCENE & HAPPENINGS FEBRUARY-MARCH 2020 PAGE 17

REBA MCENTIRE SYMPHONY CASUAL CLASSICS SERIES: YOGA CONCERT GRAHAM NASH and she has been cited as a role model by Admission Charged TREVOR NOAH: LOUD & CLEAR and its original interpretations of vocal liter- nearly every successful woman to follow in Legendary artist Graham Nash is a two- March 27 ature, from Renaissance to jazz and popular her wake. Country Music Hall of Fame time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Starting: 8:00 PM genres, as well as contemporary composi- - with Crosby, Stills, and Nash and with the Von Braun Center Propst Arena tion. SYMPHONY CLASSICAL SERIES: Hollies. He was also inducted twice into the 700 Monroe Street FOUR SEASONS Songwriter’s Hall of Fame, as a solo artist www.vonbrauncenter.com March 21 and with CSN, and he is a GRAMMY Award The Daily Show host makes a stop in Hunts- March 28 First Baptist Church winner. ville on his World Tour. 8 PM 600 Governors Drive Von Braun Center www.hso.org ASHLEY MCBRYDE CELEBRITY CONCERT SERIES Mars Music Hall Vivaldi’s beloved Four Seasons will be March 27 CHANTICLEER 700 Monroe Street performed with guest artist, Mayuko Kamio Starting: 7:30 PM March 28 Admission Charged on violin. Von Braun Center Mars Music Hall Trinity United Methodist Church www.vonbrauncenter.com 700 Monroe Street 607 Airport Road Jo Dee’s breakout song, “Heads Caroli- SYMPHONY CASUAL CLASSICS SERIES: Admission Charged Admission charged na, Tails California,” made her a household YOGA CONCERT www.vonbrauncenter.com www.hsvchambermusic.org name. Following the success of her debut, Jo March 22 Lauded by The New York Times as “an The Huntsville Chamber Music Guild has Dee posted nine No. 1 hits, sixteen Top 40 3:30 PM alluringly flexible singer, fluent in classic been presenting concerts in Huntsville for 67 songs, sold over five million albums world- Lowe Mill Arts & Entertainment country, blues and Southern rock, with a years, bringing Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center wide, and was honored by the ACM Awards, 2211 Seminole Drive voice that moves easily from tender to and the Metropolitan Opera to Huntsville. CMA Awards, and GRAMMY Awards. www.hso.org tough,” Ashley McBryde’s GRAMMY-nom- Called “the world’s reigning male chorus” Practice yoga while surrounded by visual inated (released by the New Yorker, the San Francisco-based LYNYRD SKYNYRD FAREWELL TOUR art and beautiful music. March 30, 2018 on Atlantic Records/ GRAMMY® award-winning ensemble Chanti- March 28 Warner Nashville) earned the Arkansas cleer has just celebrated the 40th anniversa- 7 PM GRAHAM NASH: AN INTIMATE EVENING OF native critical acclaim from , ry of its 1978 founding. Praised by the San Von Braun Center Propst Arena SONGS AND STORIES Variety and more with The Washington Francisco Chronicle for its “tonal luxuriance 700 Monroe Street March 25 Post raving, “McBryde’s blue-collar story- and crisply etched clarity,” Chanticleer is Admission Charged 8 PM telling and straightforward singing set her known around the world as “an orchestra www.vonbrauncenter.com Von Braun Center Mars Music Hall apart.” of voices” for its seamless blend of twelve Lynyrd Skynyrd performs with special 700 Monroe Street male voices ranging from soprano to bass guest .

ASHLEY MCBRYDE JO DEE MESSINA LYNYRD SKYNYRD PAGE 18 ROCKET CITY SCENE & HAPPENINGS FEBRUARY-MARCH 2020 The

Theater Voices of Our Times series continues with Scene actress Mary Badham Upcoming plays and performances By STAFF REPORTS Peck, who played Scout’s father Atticus you will not want to miss and occasionally accompanied him on HUNTSVILLE – To celebrate the his one-person show lecture tours and Huntsville Museum of Art’s 50th Anni- award ceremonies. THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY, ESCAPE TO MARGARITAVILLE A MUSICAL March 20-22 versary, the museum will present Acad- Badham now maintains a busy sched- February 6-9 Von Braun Center Mark C. Smith emy Award-nominated actress Mary ule lecturing to audiences international- Thu/Fri/Sat 7:30, Sat/Sun 2:00 Concert Hall Badham, Thursday, Feb. 13 at 7 p.m. ly about the book and the film. Her inter- Lee High Main Stage 700 Monroe Street for an in-depth discussion of her role in est is in expanding knowledge about the 2500 Meridian Street broadwaytheatreleague.org the award-winning 1962 production of film’s message of social justice and en- Admission charged With a book by Emmy Award® winner To Kill a Mockingbird. Badham will be suring that each generation of students Based on the best-selling novel, and de- Greg Garcia (“My Name is Earl,” “Raising taking part in an interview about her role can experience the film’s impact. veloped by the Pulitzer and Tony Award-win- Hope”) and Emmy Award® nominee Mike as Jean Louise “Scout” Finch in the film Dana A. Williams, the interim dean ning creative team of Jason Robert Brown O’Malley (“Survivors Remorse,” “Shame- and its message of social justice. of Graduate School, chair of the English (The Last Five Years, Parade, Songs for a less”) ESCAPE TO MARGARITAVILLE is the Museum Executive Director, Christo- Department and a professor of African New World) and Marsha Norman. The Bridg- musical comedy featuring both original songs es of Madison County captures the lyrical and your most-loved Jimmy Buffett classics, pher Madkour said he is excited to have American Literature at Howard Uni- expanse of America’s heartland along with including “Fins,” “Volcano,” “Cheeseburger in Badham as part of its Voices of Our versity, will be interviewing Badham the yearning entangled in the eternal ques- Paradise” and many more. USA Today calls it Times series as a celebration of Black during the event. A wine reception will tion “What if...?” Winner of the 2014 Tony “A little slice of paradise!” and Entertainment History Month. follow the interview. Award for Best Score and Orchestrations, Weekly raves, “It will knock your flip-flops “To Kill a Mockingbird was enor- Past Voices Of Our Times, guest this sweeping romance about the roads we off!” So don’t let the party start without mously popular when Harper Lee’s nov- speakers include Gloria Vanderbilt, Ali travel, the doors we open and the bridg- you. el was published in 1960,” said Madk- MacGraw, Carl Bernstein, John Dean, es we dare to cross will leave audiences our. “It was translated into some 40 Jon Scott, Bunny William, and Carolyne breathless. ROCKET CITY IMPROV PRESENTS languages and sold more than 30 million Roehm, to name a few. The museum is monthly on the 1st Friday copies worldwide and a million copies grateful for its Voices of Our Times se- THE HOBBIT Starting: 8:00 PM February 21 Shenanigans Comedy Theatre are sold annually. The novel was on the ries sponsors: AL.com, Colonial Print- Recurring weekly on Sunday, Friday, Saturday 2650 Leeman Ferry Road SW list of required readings in my literature ing, Donny’s Diamond Gallery, PNC, Von Braun Center Playhouse Admission charged class in high school and still holds up as and Shelbie King. 700 Monroe Street www.shenanigans.yapsody.com one of the finest pieces of American lit- Tickets are $40 for Museum members Admission charged Local improv troupe, Rocket City Improv, erature ever written.” and $60 for non-members and are on www.fantasyplayhouse.com performs a variety of improv formats for your Badham was chosen for the role of sale now. More information on this and Adapted by Edward Mast. Produced by viewing pleasure. Based on audience sugges- “Scout” at the age of ten, with no prior other upcoming Voices of Our Times special arrangement with The Dramatic Pub- tions, every single show will be different and acting experience. Over the years, she presentations can be found at hsvmuse- lishing Company of Woodstock, Illinois unique, so be sure to be there every time. maintained close contact with Gregory um.org or by calling (256) 535-4350. ROCKET CITY SCENE & HAPPENINGS FEBRUARY-MARCH 2020 PAGE 19 Huntsville Ballet’s ‘Off Stage’ views genres, 1940s and Q&A By GREGG PARKER alcoholic drinks, and even opportunities to hobnob with celebrities. By November HUNTSVILLE – Huntsville Ballet will 1945, Stage Door Canteens were operating offer a different perspective in its presenta- in eight U.S. cities, London and Paris. To- tion of “Off Stage” on Feb. 4-6. gether, they entertained and fed 11 million The new offering of “Off Stage” will Allied servicemen. open at 7:30 p.m. nightly at the Von Braun Huntsville Ballet is dedicating this pro- Center Playhouse. The show will feature gram to the late Sibyl McDougald Wilkin- different genres of dance, the popular son. Sibyl and former Marine James “Stage Door Canteen” with 1940s swing Wilkinson moved from Cocoa Beach, Fla. and a question-and-answer session with to Huntsville in 1974. After his passing in the dancers. 1988, she devoted time to church and civic Act One will include diverse genres of organizations with a special emphasis on dance from famous classical ballet pieces helping wounded veterans. with three pas de deux to contemporary Sibyl’s numerous awards include the moves and a new hip-hop performance. In Distinguished Service Award from the this portion of the show, audience mem- Commanding General of the 2nd Marine bers can interact with dancers during a Division. She was the only woman and question-and-answer session after each only civilian to ever receive this award. performance. Sibyl attended the ballet for many years, Principal dancer Ashley Jordan of Mad- even before her niece, Lisa Grumbles Ord- ison will be featured in a pas de deux with way, became Costume Designer for Hunts- Nathaniel Otto of Huntsville. Madison res- ville Ballet. idents Debbie Baughn and Robert Salinas “Her family and her colleagues at Van serve on Huntsville Ballet’s Board of Di- Valkenburgh & Wilkinson are so happy rectors. to support Huntsville Ballet, an organiza- Act Two transitions to the award-win- tion she loved, and are so appreciative of ning “Stage Door Canteen,” which pays Huntsville Ballet Company for dedicating homage to1940s’ swing music and the ‘Off-Stage’ featuring the award-winning energy of a USO show. Phillip Otto cho- ‘Stage Door Canteen’ in her honor,” Phil- reographed this tribute to the United States lip Otto said. military. The segment includes favorites by Tickets are available at VBC ticket of- the Andrews Sisters. fice or Ticketmaster.com. For 25 percent The American Theatre Wing, a volunteer off, use code “THANKS25” at VBC Box organization, coordinated the Stage Door Office only. Canteen to offer servicemen with nights For more information, call 256-539- of dancing, entertainment, food and non- 0961 or visit huntsvilleballet.org. HBC Off-Stage - February 4-6 Von Braun Center, Playhouse, Huntsville, AL February 4 - Tuesday - 7:30 pm February 5 - Wednesday - 7:30 pm Along with dancers for other genres, Ashley Jordan of Madison and Nathaniel Otto February 6 - Thursday - 7:30 pm of Huntsville will perform in Huntsville Ballet’s “Off Stage” on Feb. 4-6. PAGE 20 ROCKET CITY SCENE & HAPPENINGS FEBRUARY-MARCH 2020 Encore Opera Theatre to present ‘Cosi fan tutte’ By GREGG PARKER website. Their mission involves promoting opera in North Alabama, providing quali- MADISON, HUNTSVILLE – Encore ty performances to audiences and offering Opera Theatre is finalizing its presentation collaborative learning opportunities to mu- of a comic opera by Mozart for performanc- sicians. (encoreopera.org) es in Madison and Huntsville. For their next public work, Encore Opera The theatre group will present “Cosi fan Theatre will present “Cosi fan tutte – Love tutte – Love Is Never a Sure Bet” at Asbury Is Never a Sure Bet,” the famous opera that United Methodist Church in Madison on Mozart composed. This comic opera focus- March 13 at 7:30 p.m. and at Church of the es on two sisters who each has a lover who Nativity in Huntsville on March 14 at 2 p.m. is a military officer. Admission will be free, but donations Don Alfonso, a cynical bachelor, makes a will be accepted. The concert performances bet with the two officers that their girlfriends will feature full orchestra and chorus. John would fall in love easily with someone else. South is handling music direction. Pretending to sail away on military assign- Founded in 2018, Encore Opera Theatre ments, the two lovers disguise themselves promotes the love of singing and opera. and try to win over the other girl. “Love is The organization’s vision is to grow into never a sure bet” as the subtitle says. a full opera company and to continue to For more information, call 256-417-9572, share a love of opera music with other mu- email [email protected] or visit enco- Encore Opera Theatre will present “Cosi fan tutte - Love Is Never a Sure Bet” in sicians and the community, according to its reopera.org. Madison on March 13 and in Huntsville on March 14. Huntsville Theatre to present Silent Sky on March 12-21 at the VBC Playhouse By STAFF REPORTS trying to balance her dedication to science with family obligations and the possibility HUNTSVILLE - Huntsville Theatre will of love. bring Lauren Gunderson’s Silent Sky to the The true story of 19th-century astrono- stage on March 12-21. The performance mer Henrietta Leavitt explores a woman’s will be held at the Von Braun Center Play- place in society during a time of immense house, 700 Monroe St, Huntsville. scientific discoveries, when women’s ideas When Henrietta Leavitt begins work at were dismissed until men claimed cred- the Harvard Observatory in the early 1900s, it for them. Social progress, like scientif- she isn’t allowed to touch a telescope or ex- ic progress, can be hard to see when one press an original idea. Instead, she joins a is trapped among earthly complications; group of women “computers,” charting the Henrietta Leavitt and her female peers be- stars for a renowned astronomer who cal- lieve in both, and their dedication changed culates projects in “girl hours” and has no the way we understand both the heavens time for the women’s probing theories. and Earth. As Henrietta, in her free time, attempts to You may buy tickets online, call us at measure the light and distance of stars, she 256-536-0807, or email tickets@theatre- must also take measure of her life on Earth, hsv.org for more information. ROCKET CITY SCENE & HAPPENINGS FEBRUARY-MARCH 2020 PAGE 21

MASTER ARTIST WORKSHOP WITH LESLIE WOOD - February 7-8 An awards ceremony and opening reception for the YAM 2020 exhibition will be held Sunday, March 15, from 1-3 p.m. YAM 2020: Exhibition for Youth Art Month By STAFF REPORTS Montgomery to be displayed at the Al- abama State Council on the Arts, along The Art HUNTSVILLE - Youth Art Month is with other regional winners from across observed nationally each March to em- the state. phasize the value of art education for chil- The artwork by the winner of the Con- dren and to encourage public support for gressional Art Competition, selected quality school art programs. It is hosted from students in the 5th Congressional each year in Huntsville by The Huntsville District, will later travel to Washington Museum of Art’s Museum Academy. D.C. for a yearlong display at the U.S. This year marks the 33nd annual Youth Capitol. Art Month (YAM) exhibition of stu- The Huntsville Museum of Art cel- dent artwork on view at the Huntsville ebrate the talents of North Alabama’s $5 AFTER 5P SceneAT THE where Museum guests may enjoy a special Museum of Art in the major galleries young artists with an opening reception HUNTSVILLE MUSEUM OF ART menu item every Thursday from 5p – 9p. of the Museum. This exhibition show- on Sunday, March 15, from 1-3 p.m.. The Recurring weekly on Thursday Make sure to show them your Museum cases nearly 200 exuberant works of art reception is sponsored by the Huntsville 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM admission sticker. by youth in kindergarten through grade Museum of Art Board of Directors and as Huntsville Museum of Art 12 from Huntsville City, Madison City, part of the Museum’s Community Free 300 Church Street CONNECTIONS: STEPHEN PAUL DAY Madison County, Athens City, Limestone Day program. Admission fees will be (256) 535-4350 SIBYLLE PERETTI County, Decatur City, and Scottsboro waived to all visitors that day. Admission charged Through February 9 www.hsvmuseum.org/5-after-5p Huntsville Museum of Art City schools. At this opening reception there are Enjoy art, wine, culture and cuisine, 300 Church Street The Juried Art Teachers’ Biennial, award presentations for VAA Blue Rib- every Thursday night when admission to www.hsvmuseum.org Congressional Art Competition, and bon Finalists and the Congressional Art the Huntsville Museum of Art is only $5. For Stephen Paul Day creates skillfully VAA: Visual Arts Achievement Program Competition in the Great Hall. They will your added enjoyment, a glass of wine will executed paintings and sculptures that are District V Blue Ribbon Finalists exhibi- also hold Artists’ Demonstrations to ex- be available for $5! Live music will also be whimsical and charming, reflecting aspects tions complement the student artwork. pose visitors to a variety of different art included, so be sure to check the Facebook of his boyhood as well as folktale symbol- The VAA District V award-winning techniques as artists work in their select- event page to see who’s performing. After ism. Sibylle Peretti creates glass sculp- works will then subsequently travel to ed mediums in the galleries. touring the galleries, stroll to Pane E Vino CONTINUED ON PAGE 22 PAGE 22 ROCKET CITY SCENE & HAPPENINGS FEBRUARY-MARCH 2020

HARLEM, HOLLYWOOD, BROADWAY: HUNTSVILLE MUSEUM OF ART VOICES OF OUR TIMES- MARY BADHAM AFRICAN AMERICAN LEGENDS tures and multimedia collages which com- Donna Summer, actress Cicely Tyson, and hsvmuseum.org interest is in expanding knowledge about bine photography and drawing with surface actor Ben Vereen. This annual series brings people of note the film’s message of social injustice and techniques such as engraving, mirroring and from the areas of the arts, academia, pub- to ensure that each generation of students glass slumping. The world Peretti creates MASTER ARTIST WORKSHOP lishing, politics, and more to the Huntsville can experience the film’s impact. for the children in her pieces is mysterious, WITH LESLIE WOOD Museum of Art for candid, in-depth discus- alluring and potentially fraught with danger, February 7-8 sion and presentations. GALLERY WALK AND OPENING RECEP- underscoring their fragility and humanity. 9 AM-4 PM Mary was chosen for the role of “Scout” TION: ENCOUNTERS: CHARLES LADSON Huntsville Museum of Art at the age of ten, with no prior acting February 23 HARLEM, HOLLYWOOD, BROADWAY: 300 Church Street experience. She won an Oscar nomination 2-4 PM AFRICAN AMERICAN LEGENDS www.hsvmuseum.org for best-supporting actress. At that time Huntsville Museum of Art Through March 22 In this two-day workshop, you will explore she was the youngest person ever to do 300 Church Street Huntsville Museum of Art the many different sides of art journals so. After To Kill a Mockingbird, 1962, she www.hsvmuseum.org 300 Church Street from getting past the blank pages to tips appeared in two other films, This Property Join the Huntsville Museum of Art for www.hsvmuseum.org and techniques in capturing your words and is Condemned, 1966, with Robert Redford a gallery walk and opening reception for En- This exhibition features 36 hand-select- imagery. An art journal is a combination of and Natalie Wood; and Let’s Kill Uncle, counters: Charles Ladson. Gallery walk and ed silver gelatin and color photographs visual and written imagery that captures 1966. She had TV appearances on Dr. reception included in price of admission. of important African American artists and thoughts, ideas and images in a visual way. Kildare “Sister Mike,” 1963; and Twilight Encounters: Charles Ladson focuses on performers taken by Jack Mitchell over a They can be travel logs, dream diaries, art Zone “The Bewitchin’ Pool,” 1964, before the accomplished paintings of this mid-ca- career spanning five decades. Mitchell died techniques, therapy logs, storybooks, or any- retiring from acting as a teenager to pursue reer artist from Macon, GA. Ladson’s works in 2013 at age 88. His first cover photo- thing. Anything goes in an art journal from an education.. Over the years, she main- mix conventional aspects of painting like graph for a major magazine was of Haitian using mixed media and collage, to paint, to tained close contact with Gregory Peck texture, layering, perspective, transparency, dancers for the May 1951 issue of Color pen and charcoal. “Atticus” and occasionally accompanied and detail — to create images that evoke Magazine. Exhibition highlights include sing- him on his one-man-show lecture tours a sense of mystery and dreamlike reality. er-songwriter Harry Belafonte, singer Whitney VOICES OF OUR TIMES- MARY BADHAM and award ceremonies. In April of 1997, Like much Southern art, his paintings have Houston (in her first photo session with a February 13 Mary had a vision to reunite the cast and a strong narrative component. Ladson professional photographer), dance company 7 PM creative team for a national satellite broad- received his BFA degree from the School of founder Alvin Ailey, writer Toni Morrison, Huntsville Museum of Art cast to US schools. Mary now maintains a Visual Arts in New York and his MFA degree singer Roberta Flack, soprano Leontyne 300 Church Street busy schedule lecturing to audiences inter- from the University of Georgia. His work Price, hip hop group Public Enemy, singer Admission charged nationally about the book and the film. Her has been exhibited throughout the South-

AMERICAN MASTER ILLUSTRATORS: CONNECTIONS: STEPHEN PAUL DAY GALLERY WALK AND OPENING RECEPTION: N.C. WYETH, MAXFIELD PARRISH, NORMAN SIBYLLE PERETTI ENCOUNTERS: CHARLES LADSON ROCKET CITY SCENE & HAPPENINGS FEBRUARY-MARCH 2020 PAGE 23 NEIGHBORS

LECTURE AND PREVIEW RECEPTION: AMERICAN MASTER ILLUSTRATORS east, including the last Red Clay Survey at the Huntsville Museum of Art, where he won a Merit award.

LECTURE AND PREVIEW RECEPTION: AMERICAN MASTER ILLUSTRATORS: WYETH, PARRISH AND ROCKWELL March 19 6-8:30 PM Huntsville Museum of Art 300 Church Street (256) 535-4350 Admission charged www.hsvmuseum.org This exclusive exhibition features Ninth Annual Carnegie Carnival approximately 35 original works by three of America’s most celebrated and beloved artists — master illustrators Maxfield Parrish, Norman Rockwell, and N.C. Wyeth. to be held in downtown Decatur The stories these artists tell are well-known By STAFF REPORTS carnival-style games and prizes. Fifteen tend. Parade registration is $10 + $5 for parts of American history. Enjoy a lecture by Judy and Laurence Cutler followed by a carnival game tickets can be purchased each additional dog. reception catered by Chef Narvell. DECATUR – Decatur’s premier Mardi for $5 at the event. The Carnegie Carnival The grand finale of the daylong event is Gras style celebration will take place on Creation Station opens at 12:30 p.m., of- the Carnegie Carnival Parade where crew- AMERICAN MASTER ILLUSTRATORS: N.C. February 22, when the Carnegie Visual fering free hands-on art projects for kids. es proceed in traditional Mardi Gras-style WYETH, MAXFIELD PARRISH, NORMAN Arts Center holds its annual Carnegie Car- Sponsored by Kiwanis of Decatur, the Cre- complete with themed floats, costumes, ROCKWELL nival. Now in its ninth year, Carnegie Car- ation Station will be also be located at the throws, and music. Set to hit the streets at Starting March 22 nival fills the city’s historic downtown area Farmers Market by the Carnival Midway 6 p.m., the parade route travels along 2nd Recurring weekly on Sunday, Tuesday, with parades, crewes, floats, throws, music games. Avenue, Lee Street and Bank Street. Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and other family-friendly fun, all while The Carnival Prince and Princess Pa- Parade watchers are encouraged to ar- Huntsville Museum of Art promoting art and creativity. The event rade gets underway at 12:30 p.m. Watch rive early to claim a spot for viewing. 300 Church Street Admission charged also serves as a fundraiser for the arts and local children and teens parade via foot, During Carnegie Carnival, downtown www.hsvmuseum.org other non-profits located in Decatur and bike and float starting at Founders Park restaurants and merchants will be open and The stories these artists tell are well- Morgan County. at the corner of Bank Street and Church festival-goers can dine and shop for local- known parts of American history. Parrish Carnegie Carnival gets underway at 8 Street to 2nd Avenue and ending at the ly made and one-of-a-kind items. Festival used the works of old masters to create a.m. with the Carnival Frolic, a 13.1-mile Farmer’s Market on 1st Avenue where organizers encourage parade goers to par- his stories, saying that he used paintings race through the historic districts, along the the Carnival Prince and Princess are ticipate in the Catch and Release bead-re- to create his own “world of make-believe.” Tennessee River and through Point Mal- crowned. cycling program. The Carnegie Visual Arts Rockwell created the small-town America lard Park. At 11 a.m., join CASA of North At 2 p.m., dogs of all sizes and breeds, Center, in conjunction with the AIM De- that we all love with his very personal paint- Alabama at the Carnegie Visual Arts Cen- dressed in their Mardi Gras best, will velopmental Program, collect and recycle ings. Wyeth, the father of artist Andrew ter, located at 207 Church Street NE, for take to the streets of historic downtown thrown beads from previous Carnegie Car- Wyeth, carved out a rich legacy of historical work, especially his paintings of the West a morning of free kids’ events and games, Decatur for a colorful pooch parade and nival parades. and of Native Americans that illustrated family entertainment and art for everyone. dog walk. The parade begins at the inter- For more information, go to carnegie- stories in Scribner’s magazines and books. At 12:00 p.m., kids of all ages will want section of Second Avenue and Johnston carnival.org, follow Carnegie Carnival on Organized by the National Museum of to make their way to the Decatur Morgan Street, goes to Lee Street, turns and ends Facebook and Instagram or call the Carn- American Illustration, Newport, RI. County Farmers Market on 1st Avenue for where it started. The event is free to at- egie Visual Arts Center at 256.341.0562. U.S. Space & Rocket Center® presents its sixth annual FRIDAY POURFEB 14 YOUR HEART OUT POUR YOUR OWN VALENTINE Join the U.S. Space & Rocket Center and Sloss Furnaces from Birmingham for a Valentine’s evening of science and art! WHEN: Friday, February 14, 2020 7 to 11 p.m.

For more information LAMONT or to order tickets, visit LANDERS rocketcenter.com/heart BAND or call 256-721-7218.