Bakersfield’s 5th Annual Biggest Baddest Barbecue Championship

Let your geek flag fly!!!

“Paladin Game Castle” photo provided by http://www.hcrealms.com/images/venue_135_1_600w.jpg

Let’s face it, when it gets hot in Bakersfield there are some people who don’t go to the pool or the water park, and who don’t want to “go outside and play,” frankly because some of them burn too easy and their allergies would be rocking off the charts. They are the geeks and trading card gamers of Bakersfield, and while other people would be hitting the mall or working on their tan by the poolside, the geeks are slaying giants, fighting ogres, and storming castles. What is this magical realm and where can I find it? The place is called Paladins Game Castle and it is located on the corner of White lane and Ashe road in the Food Max shopping center.  Paladins Game Castle has been a safe haven to all Bakersfieldians who would like to let their geek flag fly for over 10 years. They have all the table top and card games you could desire,  from the classic card games like Magic the Gathering, role playing games like Dungeons and Dragons, and the latest card games like World of Warcraft TCG. Paladin Game Castle has all the things you need to get started in your new favorite hobby and keep you out of the sun and the sweltering summer heat. If you’re not sure where to start, no problem, they can even  help teach you how to play the games.

“Facebook Page of Paladins Game Castle” Image provided by https://www.facebook.com/paladinsgamecastle

The gaming store is a place where you can setup tournaments year round or just spend a day cooling off with your friends. If gaming is not your style, they also supply plenty of comics you can buy to keep you occupied during those 100 degree days.  Even though it may not be the “cool”  everyone is looking for, it is a nice place to build up your geek cred and spend an afternoon in a fantasy all your own.

Is three the “magic” number for the Iron Man series?

“Iron Man 3 Movie Poster” provided by http://www.imdb.com/media/
rm53583872/tt1300854?ref_=tt_ov_i

“Edwards Cinema in the Marketplace” photo by Casey Webb

Iron Man 3 is finally out and as an avid Iron Man fan I am very excited for the future of the franchise. I caught the show at the Edwards Cinema in the Marketplace and was blown away with the all star cast of actors like Ben Kinglsey, and Guy Pearce joining Robert Downy Jr. and Gwyneth Paltrow for the third installment of the series.  When Iron Man 3 was announced last year I was a little hesitant that they chose the Mandarin as Tony Stark’s next villain.  Without getting too nerdy, I admired the superhero movies that stayed in the near reality of our universe, like Chris Nolan’s Batman universe. Iron Man 3 still keeps a foot hold in the scientific reality that we live in today but it is traipsing more and more into the Avengers universe.  In the film, Iron Man aka Tony Stark has changed since his engagement with the Chitauri army and Loki from the Avenger movie. Dealing with post traumatic stress disorder and severe anxiety attacks, Stark feels like he is back to square one with his Iron Man designs, feeling inept and unprepared for the battles yet to come. Stark, once again has to deal with the missteps of his past and the monsters he created from it. The movie has recaptured the humor that the first Iron Man film but deals with serious questions about terrorism both domestic and abroad. Iron Man 3 has a lot of unexpected twists that some fans may not agree with but I personally believe that it was an effort to keep a more human face to what challenges Tony Stark must endure and the real consequences of war. Yes there are still men flying around in metal suits. However, in this film Tony must once again redefine who he is, and how he can best protect the ones he cares about. I would personally rate this film 8 out of 10 for the performance and story and would recommend it to all fans of the superhero genre. The one spoiler that I will let you in on is that the end credits are longer than normal on purpose (around 8 minutes long) but the scene at the end is well worth the wait.

Relay for Life brings new hope to Bakersfield

Relay for Life is back in Bakersfield. This story covers the opening ceremony held on May 4, the inspirational singing of CHP officer Robert Rodriguez and an interview with Sue Smith, a steering committee member and volunteer for the survivors group.

Image provided by http://www.examiner.com/article/two-relay-for-life-teams-hold-fundraisers-this-weekend-bakersfield

The Empty Space Theatre celebrates 10 years of success in Bakersfield

“The Empty Space Theatre” Logo provided by http://theatreaddict.com/Theaters/EmptySpace/emptyspacelogomed.jpg

Bringing entertainment and the arts to the citizens of Bakersfield, the Empty Space Theatre is alive and kicking after one of the most difficult decades in American history. While many of the shops and restaurants around Bakersfield have fallen on hard times or have closed indefinitely, The Empty Space, with its devoted founder Brian J. Sivesind, 40, and committed board members such as artistic director Bob Kempf, 53, is now celebrating its 10th season since opening in 2003 on Oak Street inside the Pizzaville shopping center What makes the story of The Empty Space Theatre so amazing is that it has survived solely on volunteers and donations from the community.

“It has had a huge impact on us, both positively and possibly negatively,” Sivesind said. “On the positive side, anyone can see a show, regardless of how much money he or she might have at any given time.  There is a huge sense of community because we don’t charge admission. On the negative side, not charging has, in some ways, devalued the product. There is no doubt that some people who choose not to donate could afford to give a few bucks. The Starbucks cup in their hand gives them away. It’s a difficult issue, but we’ve stayed alive for 10 years doing it this way, so charging isn’t in our plans.”

The Empty Space has become more versatile over the years by supporting  local projects like “Geeks vs. Zombies” written and directed by James Kopp and David Rock, as well as expanding its venue to include family friendly entertainment like Major League Improv and a local children’s theater group, Tonicism, for all of the Bakersfield community to enjoy.

“When we started here we aimed to be more shocking and provocative,” Kemp said. “We have come around to have a season that is more typical of a theater. We still have some provocative shows that are on late night but we have matured with age.”

The major obstacle for the Empty Space Theatre has remained retaining its relevancy and profitability during a terrible economic downturn. However, the theater is gaining notoriety around Bakersfield and its hard work and determination are being rewarded.

“It’s been a long road,” Sivesind said. “We recently won a Beautiful Bakersfield award, and I think we are respected in the arts community. But I would venture to say that at least 75 percent of the community of Bakersfield has no idea we exist, even after 10 years. I don’t think that’s any different than many businesses, so we try to stay positive.”

Since the beginning, the Empty Space Theatre has been a cultural oasis for many local artists and performers in Bakersfield.

“Board of Directors of the Empty Space” provided by http://www.esonline.org

“The Empty Space is a very welcoming artist venue. Our art gallery has had some terrific artists,” Kempf said.” We use to have a lot more musical artists but that comes and goes with the people running The Empty Space. We are always looking for fresh or new talent. People move on, but it’s great to see kids from high school develop their career here. This is why I believe that this place will keep going and going. We are all very passionate about this place and proud of it and have spent half of our lives here, it feels like. ”

The Empty Space Theatre knows that there is still a lot to do in order to keep their audience coming back year after year.

“I think we have to keep getting the word out that we are doing good work,” said Sivesind. “We have to keep the conversation going. Most importantly, we have to keep doing good work. If the shows aren’t strong, people won’t come back. It’s like any business. The product has to be worthwhile. We continue to reach out to schools and the younger generation, who we are hoping will help keep us alive and thriving. Theater is a new experience for many of our patrons, and that’s exciting. ”

The Empty Space is located at 706 Oak Street.

Performances:

Major League Improv has shows every Saturday at 6 p.m.

Tonicism Presents Disney’s “The Little Mermaid Jr.” Friday and Saturday, May 3 and 4 at 7 p.m., Sunday, May 5 at 2 p.m. Admission is $10

“Mother Knows Best” presented by The Tuesdays. May 3 & 4 at 11 p.m. and May 10 and 11 at 8 p.m.

Admission is $5

“The Nerd” written by Larry Shue directed by Kevin Ganger May 17 – June 1, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. Free admission with suggested donations of $15 general and $10 students/seniors

For more information on upcoming shows or to make a reservation go to http://www.esonline.org/ or call at 661.327.PLAY.

The Empty Space Theatre Performs “Crimes of the Heart”

The lights come up on the house of Lenny Magrath, played by Amy Hall, as she returns home from visiting her ailing grandfather while he is in the hospital in The Empty’s Space Theartre’s performance of “Crimes of the Heart” written by Beth Henley and Directed by Bob Kempf.

A single candle is lit on a store bought cookie by Lenny Magrath who lives with her now hospitalized grandfather.

Lenny Magrath sits at her kitchen table and reflects on the fact that, during all the commotion of her sister’s shocking crime and her grandfathers ailing condition, no one has remembered her birthday. Despondently, she lights a lonely candle in a store bought cookie and sings “happy birthday to me,” softly to herself.

Chick Boyle, also known as chicken to the sisters, is a southern socialite played by Jennifer Maddern (right). She scolds her cousin Meg Magrath, played by Cody Ganger (left), about her leaving for California after Meg’s free spirited ways nearly got Meg’s old boyfriend, Doc Porter killed and the shame it brought to Chick.

Babe Magrath,played by Ellie Siversind (left), describes the illicit affair she has been having with a 15 year old African American boy they use to know as children.Confiding in Meg (right) what it feels like to be truly loved by someone.

Babe’s lawyer, Barnett Lloyd, played by Matthew Borton, arrives at the Magrath home and reveals to Meg the long history of abuse that Babe has suffered from the hands of her husband.

Babe (left), after being confronted by Meg(right) about the abuse she has endured from her husband, reenacts the scene of the crime.

Doc Porter, played by Brian J. Siversind, and Meg Megrath, played by Cody Ganger, realize that after years of separation, they still feel deeply for one another. However, Doc has a wife and two small children, and decides to remain with his family over rekindling his romance with Meg.

Babe looks horrified at the picture given to her by Barnett Lloyd, after coming back from the hospital to see Babe’s Husband’s incriminating evidence. She discovers that the affair between the young boy and her has been uncovered by her husband.

Lenny (left) and her sister Babe (right) consoling each other after finding out that their grandfather has slipped into a coma and may not have long to live.

Chick Boyle is mortified when she discovers that Meg and Doc Porter spent the night in the country together and the scandal it brings to the family.

Lenny (center) kicks Chick out of the house and is then surprised by her sisters, who bring out a birthday cake.

The three sisters make a toast with their own big slice of cake to the uncertain future ahead of them. Knowing that whatever may come their way they still have each other.

The play ends with the Magrath sisters coming together in solidarity and in support of one another’s future. Overcoming past scars they had inflicted upon each other and the tragic suicide of their mother in their younger years, the sister stride forth into an uncertain future, more confident in their love, even though it came a day late.

Bites of True Bakersfield

I must admit that I have not tried every restaurant in Bakersfield, and as a man who is not too picky about local restaurants and has a since of adventure when it comes to food, I feel that I have tried my fair share. However, I do believe that I have taken a bite out of what is the best down home eateries that Bakersfield has to offer. Here are my bites of true Bakersfield.

The Crystal Palace Famous Sign http://www.Roadsidepeek.com

• Buck Owens Crystal Palace. Home of the great singer songwriter the Crystal Palace  is a  museum, night club, and  restaurant  all rolled into one. Carrying fond memories of the late superstar that bares the buildings name, it serves some of the best Southern style cuisine this side of the Rio Grande. A personal favorite of mine is Buck’s chicken fried steak. The Crystal Palace shares the same  belief that my grandfather always said at the dinner table, “if you leave here hungry it’s your own damn fault.”  Believe me, if you came to the Crystal Palace hungry for great food, good music, or for the history of a country music legend  that put Bakersfield on the map you won’t leave there disappointed.

Lengthwise Brewing Company Logo http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_mb4htuROIT1r9v02ro1_1280.jpg

• Lengthwise Brewing Company.  Opening their first establishment in 1998 and now opening their third restaurant here in Bakersfield. The Bakersfield brew-masters come in a solid second for being an outstanding icon of the city. As if brewing 6 different delicious beers like Lengthwiser Golden Ale, Triple Hop Red Ale,  and Centennial Ale weren’t enough, the brewery also makes seasonal brews as well like Oktoberfest,  Kern County Porter, and coming soon Kern County Crude Scottish Ale. For any of the brew it yourself fans out there these beverages would satisfy their local itch for iconic Bakersfield but Lengthwise also serves a wide variety of  delicious food as well, like their Golden Ale chicken strips, goat cheese stinky fries, and their always popular deep fried Twinkies. I hope Lengthwise’s fame keeps growing all over California because we need more breweries like them.

Famous Dave’s Logo http://www.famousdaves.com/

• Famous Dave’s.  Now I know what you’re thinking, there are so many other local restaurants out there that could  have done a better job picking the number three spot. However, from my personal experience, I say that Famous Dave’s has worked its way into my heart (hopefully my insurance covers it). What made Famous Dave’s earn it’s place in the Bakersfield top three, was their dedication to the idea of setting down to a southern family dinner. I have sat down to eat at Dave’s with people from all across America, even the pickiest eater had no problem with the delectable vittles Dave’s had to offer. From pulled pork on toast, to sweet corn bread, to a variety of different sauces ranging from big and rich to devils spit. All the while you can’t shake the feeling like you are having your dinner at a family reunion. Its hard not to love the home decor and the paper towel racks stocked to the brim for the undoubtedly messy and fun experience that you will ever get served on a trashcan lid.

Stage Art from the Late Fishlips Restaurant http://s3.evcdn.com/images/edpborder500/I0-001/001/176/510-2.jpeg_/fishlips-10.jpeg

•  Fishlips Bar and Grill. An honorable mention goes to one of our fallen heroes in the gastric and nightlife community here in Bakersfield.Fishlips Bar and Grill was a restaurant that was full of life and great food. A place where you could have a cocktail or a meal named after a famous musician (the Eric Clapton burger was a personal favorite of mine). Local bands would come in and perform cover songs from the greats like Jimmy Hendrix or The Doors and its patrons could lose themselves for an few hours  in the sensational music, food, and every type of martini known to man. Sadly Fish lips could not withstand the tragedy of the last 10 years but I hope that all of you reading this have as fond of memories of that great tavern as I do.

That’s it folks, the show is over. If you feel that I am off my mark or that I have missed a deep fried treasure hidden within the valley of Bakersfield and you would like to show me the way.Feel free to reply with a suggestion and if your addition bumps off a raining champion, then it would be a pleasure to literally eat my words.

The Empty Space Theatre Steals the Show with their Rendition of the off-Broadway Hit “Crimes of the Heart”

“The Empty Space 10 Year Celebration” courtesy of http://www.esonline.org/

The Empty Space Theater is still going strong as their 10th season in Bakersfield is in full swing. Well known for its fearlessness and bold show choices like Tony Kushner’s  “Angels in America.” This time  The Empty Space Theatre is setting their sights on the off-Broadway hit “Crimes of the Heart” written by Beth Henley and Directed by Bob Kempf.

“We have six months seasons and based on what people present to me and I what want to do, in this case “Crimes of the Heart,”  it felt like it would just be a good fit. The talent we have here, especially the female talent. The four parts we had for women in this show, I knew they were the people to do it at this time,” said Kempf. “I enjoy plays that are written by southern playwrights. They feel things deeper, emotions are bigger.”

Doc (played by Brian J. Sivesind) and Meg (played by Cody Ganger) realizing the time they have lost and the love they still have for each other. Photo by Casey Webb.

There certainly were no small roles in this performance. The three main actresses, Amy hall (playing Lenny), Cody Ganger(playing Meg), and Ellie Siversind (playing Babe) performed as the Magrath sisters and had excellent chemistry on stage. Their character’s portrayal of depth and longing for the betterment of their lives was only match by their regret and scars from their traumatic past.  Jennifer Maddern (playing the sisters cousin Chick Boyle) was wonderful in her role as the passive aggressive socialite, always trying to either distance herself from her family or control them with shame and guilt.

A very poignant  scene between  the characters Doc Porter (played by Brian J. Sivesind)  and Meg Magrath  involving a scorned and discarded love, rekindled by Meg returning to her old home to deal with a family emergency and finding Doc still living in town with a wife and two children.  Finally,  Matthew Borton (playing the role of Barnett Lloyd), conveying the struggle of his characters desire to finally exact  revenge on the man who destroyed his father’s  lively hood or to save Babe from going to prison and in do so, giving up his only leverage to redeem his family’s honor.

The play has all the hallmarks of a southern tragedy, full of manic highs and soul crushing lows. The question remains, will these characters forgive themselves and each other or will they fall victim to the crimes of the heart?

The Empty Space Theatre  is located at 706 Oak St.

Dates for the performance:

April 12, 13, 19, 20, 26  27 at 8pm

April 21 @ 2pm

A Diamond in the Dust…

Bakersfield Sign Photo taken by Nick Chapman

If someone described to you what Bakersfield has to offer, like theater, classic orchestras, entertainers like Elton John and James Taylor performing live in concert, local artists performing music and art, and modern cuisine. People would not believe it was Bakersfield but rather some other major metropolis area.  In California, there exists a common attitude that Bakersfield is just an oil town. Devoid of any real experience of art, culture, or entertainment.  However, after living here for over ten years I can say that this mindset is not absolutely true. There is life here in Bakersfield, not just people living but a infusion of artistic and cultural awakening. This movement is not only expressed by artists and groups passing through Bakersfield but by the citizens themselves.

The Rabobank Arena.
Photo provided by the Marriot hotel.

The venues here in Bakersfield  are putting on great performances. Major locations like the Fox Theater and Rabobank Arena continue to bring  great talent to Bakersfield. While local theaters like The Empty Space, Bakersfield Community Theater, and Spotlight Theater bring many local artist to the stage and gallery. There are museums and zoos, fairs and concerts, and everything in between.

The Fox Theater Photo taken by Bobak Ha’Eri July 26 2009

The dilemma Bakersfield faces  today is that it desires to be both current and cultured as it duels with the equally passionate effort to remain the quiet conservative town it once was.

Bakersfield’s reputation as being one of the top 10 conservative cities in America, with a strong christian base lends people to believe that this city remains unmoved by currents trend in culture.  Yet, there is an undercurrent of nightlife, contemporary art, classical music, ballet, live bans, and sporting events, all bubbling up to the surface.

Bakersfield has over 350,000 residents now and has had a  41% jump in growth since the last decade. This created a more diverse society which grew the desire for a wider preference of the kinds of entertainment the city has to offer.  Bakersfield’s fun and creative side may not be the first thing people think about this city. But if you can wipe the dust away and if you know where to look, you will realize what a diamond it can truly be.