Ongoing

Cinderella played by Allison Lewis takes the hand of Prince Charming played by Emilio Madrid Kuser. Photo by Jessica Barry

Santa Barbara High School Theatre, Into the Woods

– An ambivalent Cinderella? A witch who raps? A Prince Charming with a roving eye? They’re all among the cockeyed characters in this fractured fairy tale by Stephen Sondheim, featuring book by James Lapine. It’s a high-end musical journey and quest to have a spell broken and a wish granted, which brings disastrous results. And what begins as a lively, irreverent fantasy in the style of The Princess Bride becomes a lesson about community responsibility and the stories we tell our children. Directed by Otto Layman, it’s one of Sondheim’s most popular works and a timeless yet relevant modern classic. Ongoing performances are Saturday April 28 at 7 p.m; Thursday, May 3 at 10 a.m. and 7 p.m.; Friday, May 4 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, May 5 at 2 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, May 6 at 2 p.m. For tickets and more information, call 966-9101, ext. 220, or online at www.sbhstheatre.com

Santa Barbara City College Theatre Group, “Through the Fire,”

see Arts & Entertainment

Circle Bar B Theatre, Wally’s Café

From left, Jean Hall plays Louise Murdock, Sean O’Shea is Wally Murdock and Tiffany Story is Janet in Wally’s Café. Photo courtesy of CBBT

– Performances through May 20 of this classic that chronicles the paths of a New Jersey couple, Wally Murdock (Sean O’Shea) and his wife, Louise (Jean Hall), who buy a diner in the Mojave Desert in 1940. Enter Janet (Tiffany Story) on their opening day, a woman on her way to Hollywood to become a movie star, and a span of 50 years is launched as Wally, Louise and Janet move forward with lives in which eternal hope replaces fading dreams. Directed by Bill Egan, this funny and touching classic allows actors to portray characters from their late 20s to their early 70s. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., dinner at 7 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. with brunch at 1 p.m. For tickets and more information call 967-1962 or check www.circlebarbtheatre.com

Tuesday 1

Photo courtesy of CBCO

Santa Barbara Chamber Orchestra, Arunjuez to Italia

– Considered one of the “youngest stars of the guitar world” by The New York Times, Jason Vieaux (pictured) is a musician noted for his imaginative programming, virtuosic technique and unique communicative gifts, which will be showcased at the Lobero when he performs Joaquin Rodrigo’s Concierto de Arunjuez as guest soloist for this last SBCO concert of the season. Vieaux is currently head of the guitar department of the Cleveland Institute of Music, and, this season, has also performed works by Rodrigo, as well as Vivaldi and Castelnuovo-Tedesco, for the Buffalo and Ft. Wayne Philharmonics and the symphonies of Richmond, Kitchener-Waterloo and Amarillo has 11 commercially successful CDs to his credit and annually his communicative gifts are the subject of feature articles in print and Internet media outlets around the world. Under the musical direction of conductor Heiichiro Ohyama, the program is also seasoned with an Italian flavor in featuring Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 4, Op. 90, “Italian,” as well as Ottorino Respighi’s Ancient Airs and Dances, Suite No. 3; 7:30 p.m. For tickets and more information, call the Lobero Theatre Box Office at      963-0761 or purchase online at www.lobero.com

Santa Barbara Revels, May Day Celebration

– At this year’s 4th annual celebration, you’ll dance, sing and circle ’round the maypole at a new location

Photo courtesy of S.B. Revels

in Center Court at Paseo Nuevo Mall. And again this year, Revels song leader Ken Ryals will lead everyone in festive spring songs, the Pacific Sword Company will perform their complicated maneuvers and traditional sword dance, and the Revels Morris Men will cajole everyone into joining them in a Country Dance. It’s all capped off with everyone learning how to circle the maypole with colorful ribbons; 5 p.m., and the celebration is free. Got questions? Call 565-9357 or check online at www.santabarbararevels.org

Thursday 3

Ojai Storytelling Festival,

see Events

San Marcos High School Performing Arts Department, Kiss Me, Kate – “Too Darn Hot,”

“Another Op‘nin’, Another Show,” and “So In Love” are only three of the many familiar songs from Cole Porter’s original Broadway production of Kiss Me, Kate featured in this 2000 revival by the San Marcos High School Performing Arts Department. It’s a classic show-within-a-show about a theatre company’s staging of a new musical based on Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew. Fred C. Graham (played by David Childs) is the producer, director and star of “Shrew” and it reunites him with his ex-wife, Lilli Vanessi (Kelly Noe), who plays the shrewish Katherine. The on again/off again nature of their relationship off- stage is echoed in the love/hate relationship between their on-stage Shakespearean counterparts in ”Shrew,” Petruchio and Katherine. And from within their respective roles, their love is renewed and launches a hilarity that runs from jealousy and revenge to gambling and the show-stopping tune “Brush Up Your Shakespeare”— sung by two mobsters. The production is directed by David Holmes with vocal direction by Carolyn Teraoka-Brady and conducted by Michael Kiyoi, sets by Theodore Michael Dolas, costumes by Marian Azdril and choreography by Lyndsey Gallagher. Opening this evening at 7 p.m., performances run May 4, 5, 10, 11 and 12 at 7 p.m. in the school auditorium, 4750 Hollister Ave. Tickets available at the box office or online at www.shopsmroyals.org and for more information call 967-4581.

Friday 4

UCSB Music Department, The Coronation of Poppea.

Opening this evening with performances through May 5. See Arts & Entertainment.

Saturday 5

Photo by Connie Speight

Elephants Umbrella Fund Sale

– An annual sale whose proceeds go to saving the Asian elephant (pictured). Featured items include dish gardens, shade and garden plants and accessories, unused Chimera, turquoise Indian jewelry, bags, jade, Pashmina jackets and silk scarves, pots, ceramics and much more; 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. today and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. tomorrow, Sunday, May 6; 2121 Mt. Calvary Road. – follow the signs behind the Riviera near Sheffield Reservoir. For more information, check www.elephantsumbrella.org

Sunday 6

UCSB Arts & Lectures, Family Fun Series, Dan Zanes and Friend,

see Arts & Entertainment.

Santa Barbara Children’s Chorus, “An Evening of A Cappella & Jazz,”

see Arts & Entertainment.

Tuesday 8

Theatre League, Broadway at the Granada, Cirque Dreams Pop Goes the Rock,

see Arts & Entertainment.

Sunday 13 – Mother’s Day

Photo courtesy Peter Clark

Santa Barbara Jazz Society, “Peter Clark and Friends”

On this Mother’s Day, treat mom to some great jazz sounds at SOhO where pianist/musician Peter Clark (pictured) takes to the stage. Clark has had a stellar career as an entertainer in the US as well as Australia & Europe, opening for such jazz greats as Ella Fitzgerald, Billy Eckstine, & Oscar Peterson.  There will be a great lineup of guest musicians and singers, including singers James Arnold, Lois Mahalia and Daniel Salinas. Backing up Clark and friends is  bassist Louis Kabok, who was in Clark’s first band in the ’60s, drummer Craig Thatcher and saxophonist Justine Clavier; 1 to 4 p.m., SOhO Restaurant & Music Club, 1221 State St., upstairs in Victoria Court. Got questions? Call 570-1053 or check www.sbjazz.org

Friday 18

L - R, Lizbeth Medina, Waldo Damaso Figueroa and Maribel Magana take a fun moment from their rehearsal for City of Peace’s production Echoes to mug for the camera. Photo by Escamilla Austin

City at Peace, Echoes

Written and performed by a diverse group of local teens from several area high schools and junior highs, Echoes features original poems, monologues and songs in a production that embraces themes of divorce, bullying and social media. The production delves into the hearts and minds of local teens as they come to terms with their own life stories through the healing power of art in all its forms, and offers a true-to-life glimpse into the lives of teens and the issues they face. The production is directed by teenager Waldo Damaso-Figueroa — mentored by artistic director Joseph Velasco — produced by Karena Jew and City at Peace with musical direction by John Douglas, assisted by student lyricists and musicians. One performance on Friday May 18  at 7:30 p.m. with Open Mic to follow. At Center Stage Theatre, upstairs in Paseo Nuevo.   Got questions? Call 899-4292 or check www.cityatpeace.org

The Howard School, “Passport to Kindergarten”

- An opportunity for families who have kids entering kindergarten or pre-K to spend a morning exploring what Kindergarten is all about at the Howard School. Upon arrival, kids will receive a passport, have their photo taken, and then go to arts, letters, numbers, music, storytelling, etc., stations throughout the school campus, and discover all the fascinating things they will do in Kindergarten. At each station they will receive a stamp in their passport and parents will also have the opportunity to tour the school and talk to the headmaster about Kindergarten readiness. The morning ends with a healthy snack and the kids will have a full passport, to take home to remind them of what they have to look forward to; 8 a.m., 5315 Foothill Road in Carpinteria (at the Girls Inc. facility). RSVP appreciated, but not mandatory. Got questions? Call the school office at 745-8448, email to the office@thehowardschool.org or check online at www.thehowardschool.org

Ojai ACT (Art Center Theatre), “Brooklyn Boy,”

see Arts & Entertainment.

Sunday 20

Savannah Avery, a featured young dancer in Imagine That! goes to Solvang Elementary School. Photo by Darrin Neuer

Santa Barbara Dance Institute, Imagine That!

– An original dance performance and theater piece written by Rosalina Macisco and Rod Lathim for young people to explore the vast possibilities of what can happen when imagination and creativity are made a priority. The production highlights a kaleidoscope of music from vintage through contemporary and explores the wonder of letting one’s creativity run wild through the medium of dance. Featured are more than 300 young dancers from elementary schools in Santa Barbara, Solvang and Goleta as well as teachers, parents and community members; 3 p.m., Marjorie Luke Theatre, 721 E. Cota St. For tickets at $15 adults, $5 children and $10 for groups of five, call the Lobero Theatre Box Office at 963-0761, order online at www.lobero.com or make a donation for general admission at the door one hour before the performance. Got questions? Call 245-0794.

Music at Trinity Concert Series, Astonishment! Young Artists in Concert

- An annual concert featuring local youth in a program of music for voice, piano, flute, piccolo, classical guitar, viola, cello, trumpet, violin and organ and highlighted by a behind-the-scenes “Organ Encounter” demonstration of the organ’s 3,000 pipes and chambers. 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., Trinity Episcopal Church, 1500 State St. For more information, call 965-7419, 687-0189 or check online at   www.trinitysb.org

Photo courtesy of SBBS

Santa Barbara Blues Society, Tab Benoit

- Louisiana Bluesman and environmentalist Tab Benoit (pictured) is the driving force behind Voice of the Wetlands, an organization dedicated to protecting and restoring Louisiana wetlands. Winner of The Blues Foundation “Best Album of the Year,” “B. B. King Entertainer of the Year” and “Blues Performer of the Year” — twice — Benoit’s live shows spotlight his powerful vocals and guitar prowess that blends Cajun gumbo with Deep South rural blues flavoring. Back by popular demand, his November 2008 SBBS appearance drew its largest crowd in 15 years and he continues to mesmerize audiences from coast to coast and has received rave review for his latest CD, “Medicine.” The show features free barbeque snacks and a large dance floor. Doors open at 6 p.m., music starts at 7 p.m., Warren Hall, Earl Warren Showgrounds. Got questions?  Call 722-8155 or check www.SBBlues.org

Phoenix Boys Choir,

a fundraiser hosted by and for Santa Barbara Children’s Chorus. See Arts & Entertainment.

Friday 25

West Coast Chamber Orchestra, Bach by Candlelight

– This 30th anniversary concert, hosted by the Cielo Foundation, features an all-Bach program under the musical direction of conductor Christopher Story VI. Guest artist includes Westmont Symphony conductor Michael Shasberger conducting The Santa Barbara Chamber Singers; 8 p.m., Trinity Episcopal Church, 1500 State St. Tickets are available at the Arlington Ticket Agency at 963-4408 and at the door. Got questions? Call 962-6609.

Saturday 26

Courtesy photo

Dos Pueblos High School, Urinetown:

The Musical  – A musical comedy that satirizes the legal system, social irresponsibility, bureaucracy, municipal politics, and much more, including the Broadway musical itself as a form given the show’s unconventional plotline that shatters audience expectations of a happy ending. The lead characters in this student-directed production are the revolutionary Bobby Strong (Cole Peterson) and the debutante Hope Cladwell (Cha Cha Fisher), both of which are roles included on the New York Theatre Monthly list of “The 100 Greatest Roles in Musical Theatre.” The cast also features Ben Teng and Anisha Kumar. Directed by Fernanda Douglas with co-choreographers Mae Rennick and Daniel Salinas, set design by Jeremy Zaida, costume design by Savannah Tingle, the only non-student participant is music director John Douglas. Two performances only today at 2 and 7 p.m., Elings Performing Arts Center, Dos Pueblos High, 7266 Alameda Ave. Tickets at $5 available at the door. Questions? Call 968-2541 or www.dptheatrecompany.org

Among the lineup of “Totally Gershwin” dancers are, L-R, Nikki Riedinger, Alyssa Mueller, Alli Torchia and Kate Agnoli. Photo courtesy of Pam Lasker

Rudenko School of Dance, “Totally Gershwi

n” – a 44th annual production featuring dancers ages 4 years old to adults who will perform tap, jazz and ballet in a show the whole family will enjoy. This year’s production showcases a variety of dances choreographed to the music of George and Ira Gershwin; 7 p.m., Marjorie Luke Theatre, 721 E. Cota St. on the campus of Santa Barbara Junior High. Tickets at $13 general and $5 for children can be purchased in advance by calling 687-7816 or pre-performance at the door.

Sunday 27

by Jamie Lober

All women should have a gynecologist that they like and trust. It is important to be open with the gynecologist and schedule routine exams in order to promote wellness and prevent disease. For most women, an annual visit is strongly recommended. The contents of the visit are largely age-dependent. “For younger women and throughout life we screen for blood pressure, height and weight and counsel on those issues as well as talk about contraceptives and lifestyle choices,” said Kendra Johnson, nurse at Sansum Clinic. For many ladies, the gynecologist is a one-stop shop. “The gynecologist talks about routine health maintenance because for many women, the obstetrician/gynecologist is the only doctor they see on a regular basis,” said Johnson. This makes building a strong relationship even more critical.
Anyone who has a gynecological issue should consult with the gynecologist.  “Vaginal infections are No.1 on the list that we see, and yeast and bacterial vaginosis are common issues,” said Johnson. The gynecologist can make a plan to resolve either. Ovarian cysts are also common, particularly during the childbearing years. Women can develop one or multiple cysts that range in size. In most cases, they are harmless and go away on their own, but some may cause pain or be malignant or cancerous. Cysts are typically diagnosed through a vaginal ultrasound in which a thin instrument called a transducer is inserted into the vagina and creates an image depicting the shape, size, location and makeup of the cyst. Laparoscopy is another option which is a surgery done with a thin tube with a camera, and cysts can be treated at that time. When deciding on a treatment, variables to be considered include the woman’s age, size and type of cyst, symptoms and whether or not she wishes to have children.
You are never too young to see the gynecologist. The first exam often coincides with sexual activity or is around age 18. “The gynecologist is going to sit down and talk to you about your menstrual history, sexual activity and then do a full physical exam with an emphasis on the girl parts, which includes a breast exam and pelvic exam,” said Johnson. You can also expect a speculum exam during that visit. “It helps the provider view someone’s cervix and take a look to make sure everything is okay and do any testing that is necessary,” said Johnson. While there is no surefire prevention for all ailments, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising and all of the things that are thought to have an impact on your general health also have a positive impact on your gynecological well-being and sexual health.
Sexually transmitted disease screening depends on the person, age and circumstances. “Gonorrhea and chlamydia are a vaginal or cervical swab; herpes is a culture of the lesion which is a little swab of whatever lesion has popped up; and human papilloma virus testing is part of the pap smear protocol,” said Johnson. Contraception questions are common. “Concerns regarding effectiveness are a big thing that comes up and the process of finding one that works for you can take time,” said Johnson. The right contraceptive for a woman depends on her lifestyle and health conditions. Some women want to know about when it would be appropriate to have concerns about infertility. The definition of infertility is the inability to get pregnant after 12 months of unprotected sex.  The gynecologist will evaluate both you and your partner. If you are over 35 or have certain medical problems, tests may be started earlier. No one person can be to blame in all cases, as infertility may stem from a problem with the man, woman, couple or their lifestyle. Sexually transmitted diseases can play a role in reducing fertility and more than one factor may be responsible as well.  Treatment may include medication, surgery or assistive reproductive technologies.
The 30’s and 40’s are a big time for childbearing so most of the questions women ask during that time are related to normal health maintenance, sexual function, sexual issues or what to expect as they approach menopause. “Sexual issues could be pain with intercourse from a vaginal infection, structural issues or relationship issues,” said Johnson. Women may have bleeding problems after intercourse. “It could be from hormonal imbalances, structural abnormalities or trauma,” said Johnson. Treatment depends on the cause. Of course if you are planning to deliver a baby, make a list of questions in advance and go down the list of what is important to you. You have a right to know what to expect, including how the gynecologist will help you deal with pain and discomfort and how many patients elect for non-drug coping techniques. Soon-to-be moms may want to know how the gynecologist will determine the level of medical intervention needed during pregnancy and birth.
Questions about breast health always come up. Women need to remember that the breasts respond to changes in the levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone during the menstrual cycle and during certain times in the cycle fibrous breasts can become painful. Most breast problems are benign and not cancer. Common symptoms are lumps, discharge from the nipple and tender areas. Pain, itching, swelling and tenderness in both breasts often can be considered fibrocystic changes. Women between 25 and 50 can have cysts on the breasts. There is not a relationship between fibrocystic changes, cysts and breast cancer. The breast self-exam, clinical breast exam and mammography can all assist women in detecting any troubles at an early stage so they have the best possible outcome in the long-term.
Older moms may talk about changes during perimenopause. “There can be a lot of discomfort with the changes in the tissue associated with the decline in hormones at that time of life, so frequently women come in for a consultation about the changes and discuss treatment options related to that,” said Johnson.  There are strategies usually related to lubrication and hormone replacement.  Regardless of age, try to take control of the visit. “Make sure you understand what tests are being done and why and if you are given a treatment, make sure you ask about alternatives, side effects and how to use it properly,” said Johnson.
Osteoporosis is a hot topic of discussion.  In short, it is a condition in which bones become thin and weak. From childhood until age 30, bone is formed faster than it is broken down while after 30 the reverse is true.  Some bone loss is normal but too much bone loss can result in osteoporosis. Back pain or tenderness are signs of osteoporosis as well as loss of height more than what is normal for your age group or a slight curving of the upper back. While osteoporosis can happen to anyone, exercise increases bone mass before menopause and slows loss after menopause. As muscles become stronger, bones follow suit. The bone mineral density test is encouraged for moms 65 and older or those who are younger and suffered a fracture. The goal of the test is to measure bone mass in the heel, spine, hip, hand or wrist.  Bisphosphonates are the main treatment and their purpose is to slow the breakdown of bones.
Women’s health is a rapidly growing field. “The most exciting thing that is coming up is the changes in pap smear screening because they are finding out that less is more,” said Johnson. Women should feel comfortable asking questions about how frequent they should be screened and what the results mean. “If you have always had normal pap smears, the guidelines are saying sometimes three or five years is appropriate in between those pap smears but you should still see your provider annually for a routine physical and gynecological exam,” said Johnson.
Be sure to keep a continuous dialogue with your gynecologist. “Find out how to best communicate such as if they prefer phone calls or have a system set up in their office where you can e-mail them in a secure way,” said Johnson. Last but not least, find out where he wants you to turn for trustworthy and reliable information about women’s health. “It is tempting to go online and Google your symptoms and come up with chat rooms that may not have accurate or reliable information, so your gynecologist can be a good resource for knowing which sites they prefer for getting the most accurate information on your particular condition,” said Johnson. Take the time to get to know your gynecologist and make it a lifestyle choice that you see her and work together to stay well.

Jamie Lober, author of “Pink Power,” has a passion for health promotion and disease prevention. She can be reached at jamie@getpinkpower.com

THE ROCK

Gets the Granada Movin’ and Groovin’…Twice!

Photo courtesy of Theatre League

Presented on the Theatre League’s 2012 Granada series, Neil Goldberg’s CIRQUE DREAMS POP GOES THE ROCK plays for two performances only on Tuesday, May 8 and Wednesday May 9 at 8 p.m. at the Granada Theatre. It’s a one-of-a-kind variety show that unites generations through a mash-up of rock tunes choreographed in tandem with daring aerialists, gravity-defying balancers, strongmen and awe-inspiring acts. They’re accompanied by a hip dance crew, singers and a band performing more than 20 chart-topping hits live on stage including “Zoot Suit Riot,” “Like a Prayer,” “She Bangs,” and “Call me Irresponsible.” Goldberg, creator of “Cirque Dreams Jungle Fantasy,” has blended an international cast of Cirque Dreamers who transform a carnival funhouse into a rock ‘n’ roll party that’s movin’ and groovin’ to an original live band. Music and fantasy ignite the funhouse when Jack pops out of his box and catapults the artists into feats of impossibilities, mayhem and sensory spectacle. It’s a fun blend of wizardry, music, color and fantasy that may even leave audiences dancing in the aisles. For tickets and more information call the Granada Theatre box office at 899-2222 or purchase online at www.granadasb.org or www.theaterleague.org

Ojai ACT’s  ‘Brooklyn Boy’

A warm and moving testament to whether you can go home again. Or want to.

Photo courtesy of Ojai ACT

The Ojai ACT production of playwright Donald Margulies’ “Brooklyn Boy,” opening May 18 with performances through June 17, not only has Steve Grumette — a bona fide Brooklyn boy — as its director, it also has the serendipity of being set in the same neighborhood’s in Brooklyn and Los Angeles where Grumette grew up before moving to Ojai. Margulies is best known for his Pulitzer Prize-winning play “Dinner With Friends,” but the Los Angeles Times called “Brooklyn Boy” one of his funniest and moving plays.” It follows novelists Eric Weiss (played by Buddy Wilds, pictured) whose autobiographical novel is a best seller, but just as his career takes off his personal life falters and he goes back to Brooklyn to be with his father who is ill in a hospital. Eric’s success is celebrated by his old friends and neighbors, but his curmudgeonly father Manny, played by Howard Leader, hasn’t even read his son’s triumphant novel. Novelist Thomas Wolfe wrote “you can’t go home again,” and in “Brooklyn Boy” Marguiles makes his own funny, warm and moving testament to that adage in exploring the irony that “you can also never leave.” Produced by Frank James Malle, the cast also includes Pamela Reiss (Eric’s wife), John Medeiros (his best friend) and Jonathan Weiser, Sharon Casanta and Alexa Bowen. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m., ACT (Art Center Theatre), 113 S. Montgomery St. For tickets and more information call 640-8797 or go online at www.OjaiACT.org

Dan Zanes and Friends

Back by popular demand on UCSB’s Family Fun Series

Dan Zanes music and charisma charms even the youngest of his generation-busting grou Photo courtesy of UCSB Arts & Lectures

Often called the “king of the kiddie rock scene,” Dan Zanes — a veteran rocker from the group The Del Fuegos — has made his mark with albums that have created major fans of both kids, and their hip parents. He returns to UCSB Campbell Hall by popular demand on Sunday, May 6 to play songs from his newest, critically acclaimed CD, Little Nut Tree, which features performances by Andrew Bird and the Sierra Leone Refugee All-Stars, among others. “The overall effect is one big smlle,” writes the Wall Street Journal” in an appearance that comes on the heels of a highly anticipated Del Fuegos reunion tour. Before the show come an hour early for balloons, food, face painting and as a special treat The Burger Bus and gourmet cupcake truck, Sweet Arleen’s, will be selling goodies in the drop-off loop near Campbell Hall. For tickets at $10 children and $15 adults and more information call 893-3535 or purchase online at www.ArtsAndLectures.UCSB.edu

Jazz, A Cappella Voices and Phoenix

Boys Choir Highlight the

Happenings in May for the Santa Barbara Children’s Chorus

Santa Barbara Children’s Chorus members in concert at Kids Expo 2012 include (front row, L – R ) Jasmine Linares, Parker Freeman Madisyn Thomas, Isabella Bowman-Andreatta and Isael Negrete and (back row, L – R) Samantha Vargas, Sunil Madhow, Bryan Shott and Angela Delgado. Photo courtesy of Mo McFadden

“An Evening of A Cappella & Jazz” is the musical umbrella moniker for a Santa Barbara Children’s Chorus (SBCC) fundraising event on Sunday, May 6 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Marjorie Luke Theatre, 721 E. Cota St. Along with the SBCC, the program features dynamic UCSB a cappella groups including the all-female VocalMotion, Brothers From Other Mothers (BFOM) and Naked Voices. And along with the award-wining Pacific Sound from Ventura, in between the a cappella performances the Santa Barbara Jazz Collective will keep the musical mood in motion, upbeat and moving forward. Plus, in addition to a raffle of art exhibited by the Incredible Children’s Art Network (ICAN), with proceed going to SBCC scholarship funds, a special guest on the program lineup includes Ellen Rockner with the Wonder Choir. Led by Choral Director Erin Bonski-Evans, the SBCC songs in the show will highlight the beauty of our world and importance of conservation. Close to 20 members of the chorus, ranging in age from eight to 14 and hailing from local elementary and junior high schools, will be a part of the concert. On Sunday, May 20 from 6 to 7 p.m. the SBCC will be host to a concert featuring the Grammy Award-wining Phoenix Boys Choir at the Unitarian Society sanctuary, 1535 Santa Barbara St. Since 1948, the Phoenix Boys Choir has provided top quality music education for boys ages 7-14 and entertainment for audiences worldwide. The concert is free, but donations are welcome. For advance online ticket purchase to “An Evening of A Cappella & Jazz” at $12 adults ($15 at the door) and free to kids 5 and under go to or call 512-9840. www.sbchildrenschorus.com

Through the Fire

SBCC Theatre Group production captures the multiple emotions of those

affected by local fire tragedies

Ann Dusenberry and Edward Romine in Through the Fire. Photo by Rick Mokler

The Santa Barbara City College Theatre Group is back at home in the newly renovated Jurkowitz Theatre with an original theatrical documentary, Through the Fire, which opened April 25 with performances through May 12. Written by Katie Laris, Philip Laris and Alice Scharper, it’s a documentary play composed of interviews conducted with local community members over a period of two years regarding their experiences with fire — from the Sycamore through Painted Cave, up to the Tea and Jesusita fires. Drawn from in-depth interviews with a broad range of Santa Barbarans — survivors, students, firefighters, artists, newscasters, unsung heroes — the play reveals stories of courage, crisis and change in the face of a natural force and captures the danger, despair, humor and hope of our community’s close encounters with wildfire. The production features an impressive cast of local favorites, including David Brainard, Nik Balah, Ann Dusenberry, Leslie Gangl-Howe, Jess Garcia, Magdalena Gullberg, Chad Harris, Brian Harwell, E. Bonnie Lewis, Hudson Oznowicz, Edward Romine, Jenna Scanlon and Leslie Story. “Almost anyone you meet who has had any length of time here in Santa Barbara has had some experience with fire,” says a character in the play. “You almost can’t meet someone who hasn’t been affected in a traumatic way, in a deep way.” Performances are Wednesday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m., Sunday at 2 p.m. and Saturdays May 5 and 12 at 2 p.m. For tickets reservations and more information, call the Garvin Theatre Box Office at 965-5935.

UCSB Opera Theatre Stages Baroque ClassicThe Coronation of Poppea

Mezzo-soprano Helen von Rueden plays Poppea in the UCSB Opera Theatre production of The Coronation of Poppea. Photo courtesy of UCSB Photographic Services

Claudio Monteverdi’s last work, The Coronation of Poppea, a baroque opera with prologue and two acts, plays for three performances on Friday, May 4 at 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, May 5 and 6 at 3 p.m. in UCSB’s Lotte Lehmann Concert Hall. First performed during the 1642-43 carnival season in Venice, the work has been praised for its originality, its melody and for the human attributes of its characters. The libretto recounts the events of a single day in 65 A.D., beginning with Poppea’s (Helen von Rueden, pictured) pledge of love to Emperor Nerone (Bryan Lane), who is unhappily married to Ottavia (Annie Thompson). Poppea’s betrothed, Ottone (Mark Covey) discovers she has been sharing Nerone’s bed and after Cupid (Mary Rose Go) foils Ottavia’s plot to have Ottone murder Poppea, Ottavia is put aside and Poppea takes her place as Nerone’s queen. Directed by Simon Williams, with music direction by Paul Sahuc and orchestra direction by Temmo Korisheli, the opera helped to define the boundaries of theatrical music and established Monteverdi as the leading musical dramatist of his time. Admission is $15 general, $7 students with tickets available at the door. For more information, check www.music.ucsb.edu

When my sons were younger, one of their favorite books was “Love You Forever” by Robert Munsch. It tells the story of a mother and her son. Each night she would rock him and sing a song about how she would love him forever and how he would always be her baby.

In the story, as her son grows, the mother continues to slip into his room and hold him and sing to him while he sleeps. The book takes a surprising turn when the son grows up and moves out. The mom gets into her car and drives across town. She sneaks into his bedroom and sings him the song.

That part of the story always disturbed me. For one thing, I couldn’t imagine my sons growing up and moving out. However, my oldest turns eighteen in a few weeks, and what I once couldn’t imagine may soon become quite real.

I don’t know much about how boys turn into men. I understand the physiology of the process. Two of my soft, sweet cherubs are now scratchy-faced fellows who tower over me. However, I’ve found it difficult to move past the hands-on stage of parenting. I find myself asking, “what did you eat for lunch… is your homework finished… where’s your coat?”

By contrast, my husband, Derek, has had some experience in becoming a man. He’s a retired military officer. He chides me for babying the boys and encourages me to let them do risky things – like fail.

“If you don’t allow them to make mistakes, how are they going to learn?” he asks.

But I’ve spent years trying to keep my sons from sticking fingers into light sockets, from eating dirt, and from running into the street without looking. Watching these boys become men has been tougher than I thought possible. For Derek, it’s more straightforward. We’ve taught them well, now let’s watch them fly – or fall. He says if we make the nest too comfortable, they’ll never want to fly. He says this like it’s a bad thing.

Last week, Derek and our second son exchanged heated words over a missed curfew. I bit my tongue and let them work it out, but late that night I couldn’t sleep. I kept thinking about how little time we have left with this young man in our home. I’ve watched how quickly his older brother’s high school years have flown.

So, I quietly opened the door to his room. Just like in the children’s story, I crept to the foot of his bed.

“What?” his deep voice mumbled.

“It’s just me,” I said.

He grunted and rolled over. I scooted to the edge of his bed and wrapped my arms around him. When did his chest get so broad? How did his arms get so muscular?

I whispered the words from “Love You Forever.”

And suddenly, I remembered a scene I’d witnessed recently in the lobby of a nursing home. A woman sat slumped in a wheelchair near the entrance. She wasn’t lovely to look at. Her white hair was thin and straggly and she didn’t have many teeth. Her shoulders were bowed and bent. She didn’t make eye contact with anyone.

The doors opened and a balding gentleman entered. He went right to the woman and knelt in front of her. “Hello, mother,” he said. She lifted her head and placed a trembling hand on the side of his face. She didn’t speak, but her eyes lit up and her smile transformed her.

Yes. I understand that little boys become men. I’m grateful my own have their dad to help them through the process. But we mothers know a secret.

At the end of that children’s story, the mother has become too frail to hold her son. So he goes to her. He picks her up and rocks her, and he sings her the same song she used to sing to him.

So, I’ll hold these boys while I can. I’ll let them go when I should. And someday maybe they’ll return and do the same for me.

~Cindy Hval

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Stay-at-Home Moms.

For further information go to: www.chickensoupforthesoul.com

I’m in the process of repainting some rooms in my house. I’ve been struggling with different types of sheens and whether to paint it myself. Any thoughts?

I recently walked into a house that was painted by the homeowners. I was amazed at all the flaws that I immediately picked out. They even admitted that they should have hired a professional. We tend to think that painting is easy. However, there is a lot of skill and knowledge that is involved in the application of a quality paint job.

It starts with assessing the surfaces to be painted. This includes wall patching, filling in any small holes from old picture hangers, drapes or wall dings. Then if any cracks are observed, they need to be repaired. This may include removing some old joint compound and or damaged sheetrock. Then the repairs need to be taped, joint compound applied in several layers and then sanded. It is also important to look around any electrical plates and switches. If these have any spots where the surface has broken away or there is a big rough edge so the plate does not fit evenly, repair them. Once you have completed the repairs of the areas to be painted, you then need to examine the surface very closely with a high powered artificial light. This will help expose any other imperfections that will be magnified once a fresh coat of paint is applied.

Any areas that need to be sanded should be completed. If the old surface has a higher sheen, the entire surface should be sanded to help with a better bond of the new paint to the old. Look for any brush imperfections, like paint drips on uneven texture from the roller. These areas need to be sanded as well.

Next the walls may have had something spilled on them that will affect the adhesion of the new paint. It could be grease or something unusual that got splashed onto the wall at some point. Washing the walls with a TSP or something similar should be used to remove these substances.

A good hand with the application of caulk will make a big difference in the final look of any wall. Caulking is usually done in between the priming and the final coat of paint. All corners and edges of trim pieces should be caulked.

In preparing to paint, remember to use the “blue tape” to help with your edges. It can help with straight lines. However paint can bleed underneath it so be careful. Then apply the paint quickly and evenly. Cut in with the brush all the edges and then come back and roller the larger areas. Don’t get too far ahead with the brushing or the paint may be dry.

Finally, about finishes.  The higher the sheen, the higher the shine. Flat paint has no shine; high-gloss is all shine. In between are eggshell, satin, and semi-gloss, each with its own practical and decorative job to do. High gloss is the most durable and easiest to clean of all paint sheens. But it shows everything.

Paints transition in levels of sheen to flat. Flat is a friend to walls that have something to hide. However, it’s tough to clean without taking paint off with the grime.

My final thought is that if you want a good paint job, hire a professional. If not be prepared to put in the extra time to do a good job.

Ask the Builders is written by Rod Pearson, one of three partners of Touchstone Builders, a local residential and commercial construction company serving the greater Santa Barbara area. They can be reached at 898-1920. Send questions to rod@touchstonesb.com

DUBIN LEARNING CENTER

Celebrating over 30 years of summer sessions, this Santa Barbara leader in education has helped thousands of students, ranging from the underachiever to the gifted, to reach their potential. We provide educational therapy by Board Certified Educational Therapists and Educators for students with learning differences, ADD, dyslexia, tutoring in all subjects, and SAT & GATE test prep. Individual sessions are scheduled according to needs. Use this summer to lay the foundation for a successful school year.

962-7122 www.dubinlearningcenter.com

CALIFORNIA LEARNING CENTER

All ages welcome! June 18-Aug. 17, 8 a.m.- 6 p.m.

Find out how your child can stay sharp by participating in fun and dynamic summer camps at California Learning Center. Camp offerings include Math Madness, Art, Music, Spanish, Creative Writing, Drama, Reading, and Back to School Basics. Visit clcsb.com for full camp descriptions. info@clcsb.com or clcsb.com

563-1579 www.clcsb.com

iD TECH CAMPS & iD TEEN ACADEMICS

Held at UC Santa Barbara, UCLA, UCSD, Stanford and 60+ universities in 27 states Gain a competitive edge! Create iPhone apps, video games, movies, and more at weeklong, day and overnight programs held at UCSB, UCLA, UCSD, Stanford, Princeton, and others. Small classes for ages 7-17 in a fun/challenging setting. Also 2-week, teen-only programs held at UCLA, Stanford, Yale, Harvard, and other universities: iD Gaming Academy, iD Programming Academy, and iD Visual Arts Academy.

1-888-709-TECH (8324) http://www.internaldrive.com/locations/ca-summer-camps-california-computer-camps/uc-santa-barbara/

ART

SANTA BARBARA MARITIME Children’s Art Classes

Saturdays from 10 a.m. – noon

June 9, June 23, July 14, or July 29

Reserve in advance; fees per class $25 per nonmember, $20 per member; fee includes two-hour lesson and supplies. Wear “paint friendly” clothes. Each lesson is unique with a new medium. Enroll in single classes or the entire series. To reserve call

962-8404, ext. 115, Museum store

For further information call

962-8404, ext. 111 Emily Falke www.sbmm.org

SANTA BARBARA MUSEUM OF ART ArtVenture Camps

Ages 5-12 Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Children spend their day immersed in hands-on art making, cultural history, and creative problem solving. All camps include a visit to the Santa Barbara Museum of Art to learn about and be inspired by original works of art. The Museum’s exceptional team of teaching artists includes painters and sculptors, a children’s book illustrator, a ceramicist, a graphic designer, and an art historian who are all experienced art educators. Ten weeks of summer camps begin June 11.

Call Rachel Krieps at 884-6441 or rkrieps@sbma.net

www.sbma.net/kidsfamilies

COMPUTERS

iD TECH CAMPS & iD TEEN ACADEMICS

Held at UC Santa Barbara, UCLA, UCSD, Stanford and 60+ universities in 27 states Gain a competitive edge! Create iPhone apps, video games, movies, and more at weeklong, day and overnight programs held at UCSB, UCLA, UCSD, Stanford, Princeton, and others. Small classes for ages 7-17 in a fun/challenging setting. Also 2-week, teen-only programs held at UCLA, Stanford, Yale, Harvard, and other universities: iD Gaming Academy, iD Programming Academy, and iD Visual Arts Academy.

1-888-709-TECH (8324) http://www.internaldrive.com/locations/ca-summer-camps-california-computer-camps/uc-santa-barbara/

DANCE

DANCE CAMP @ STUDIO B

Join our studio this summer for fun, positive and educational dance camps. Our goal is to give students a fun place to improve skills and make friends. We are offering hip hop, jazz, ballet and tumbling for ages from 5 and up. For our youngest dancers, we offer a princess camp with lots of fun dance activities. Check our schedule and rates at 318-1877      www.studiobdancecompany.com

GUSTAFSON DANCE CAMP 2012

offers a variety of summer programs including one- and two-week Dance Camps for ages 6-12, Mini Dance Camps for ages 3-8, a Junior Intensive for ages 9-14 and workshop classes for ages 2-1/2 and up. All camps culminate in a fully staged production.The camps and workshops for younger students include a variety of dance forms, art and performance; previous dance experience is not necessarily required.

563-3262 www.gustafsondance.com

S.B. FESTIVAL BALLET

_ is offering Fairy Tale Dreams summer camp June 18-July 6, geared for dancers age 6 and up, beginning through advanced. For students interested in performances, the focus will be preparation and production of a one-act ballet based on traditional fairy tales. All students will be cast and celebrated in a showcase performance on July 6. Prince and Princess Camp is offered for two one-week sessions, July 23 – July 27 or July 31 – Aug 3. Studio performances on July 27 or Aug 3. Discount on enrollment if registered by May 31st. Contact Denise Rinaldi, artistic director, S.B. Festival Ballet, 1019-B Chapala St., Santa Barbara.

966-0711 santabarbarafestivalballet.com

DAY ACTIVITIES

ELINGS PARK SUMMER CAMP

Camps include nature and games, sports activities, baseball, BMX, mountain biking, lacrosse, science, tennis and martial arts. Sessions run weekly. Each camp director is CPR and first aid certified with a 10 to 1 camper/counselor ratio. All camps take place at Elings Park, 1298 Las Positas Road, from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. (Extended care and scholarships available).

569-5611 info@elingspark.org www.elingspark.org

MARYMOUNT

Enrichment Camp. For students entering grades 1 – 6.

Monday – Friday, June 18-22, 9 a.m – 3 p.m.

“Dive in” to Marymount spirit with hands-on enrichment activities and awesome adventures in science, art, computers, cooking, swimming, and kids’ favorite summer games!. $260

569-1811 x 106

www.marymountsb.org

MONTESSORI CENTER

Dive into summer with us! We offer sessions for elementary and preschool students. Elementary camps are one week with special themes including but not limited to: Outdoor Adventures, Ancient Civilizations, Beach Ecology, American Artists, Fruit for 200, and Nomads of the Sahara, just to name a few. Preschool children can enjoy the renowned Montessori curriculum and materials in two-week sessions with special activities and themes, such as Ocean Explorations, Tie Dye Arts, Summer Holidays, Puppetry, Storytelling, Yoga, Healthful Baking and Hand Crafts. Come join the fun! Call for more information  683-9383 www.mcssb.org

CITY OF SANTA BARBARA PARKS & RECREATION

Register NOW for 30 different summer camps and sports clinics, including 10 new offerings, from 6/6-Aug. 26. Camps: Aquacamp, Nature, Turf & Surf, Sand & Sea, Camp Rad, Muscle Beach, Ceramics, Ballet, Art from Heart, Legos. Sports clinics: 4 Beach Volleyball clinics, Sk8 Skools, Kayaking, Kiteboarding, Standup Paddling, Tennis, Soccer, Biking, Running, Gymnastics. Jr. Counselor Training programs. Jr. Lifeguard Program. Find the new Spring/Summer Activity Guide online.   564-5418 www.sbparksandrecreation.com

Page Youth Center (PYC)

Whether your child loves basketball, soccer or volleyball, PYC provides a safe, fun environment for “keeping good kids good.” Online registration available or pick up a form at PVC, located at 4540 Hollister Ave. in S.B. For more information, go online or call  967-8778   www.pageyouthcenter.org

SANTA BARBARA CHARTER SCHOOL

Ages 5 to 12 (K through 8th grade)

Monday – Friday 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. June 4 to August 3

Healthy snacks twice a day, indoor and outdoor games, arts and crafts, local field trips to the beach, Zodo’s, Goleta Library, the Zoo, the Harbor…

Call Ginnie or Becky at 729-2152

SANTA BARBARA MONTESSORI CENTER

includes activities for TODDLERS, PRIMARY, and ELEMENTARY ages. Five one-week sessions at each level include Summer Fun activities for younger children: Cooking, gardening, art activities, music and dance, and the always popular, Musical Water Buckets. Summer Fun elementary-age children will enjoy Totally Tubular week; Boogies, Boards, and Baking; The Camping Adventure; and Wilderness Camp. Program hours: 8:30am – 2:45pm. Bus service not available during summer programs. One-week sessions begin June 11. No session July 2 – 6.

805-685-7600 www.sbmontessori.com

SANTA BARBARA ZOO

Voted “best summer camp” by Independent and Santa Barbara News-Press readers’ polls, Zoo Camp introduces children to the wild world of animals through up-close animal introductions, behind-the-scenes visits, hands-on science activities, and much, much more.

679-8500 or 962-5339 or education@sbzoo.org www.sbzoo.org

500 Ninos Drive, in Santa Barbara

SANSUM

Camp Wheez is a day camp for elementary school children, ages 6-12, with chronic asthma, providing them with a camp experience designed for their special needs and good old fashioned camp fun. Camp Wheez is staffed by medical professionals and community members. The camp is free and open to all members of the community. Space is limited

August 6-10, 2012

Mon – Fri 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.*

For more information, please call 681-7897 or go to www.SansumClinic.org/camp-wheez

SINO WEST SUMMER CAMPS

Age groups: 3-5, 4.5-11, and 11-17

Sino cmaps are filled with a variety of dance, kung fu, and creative art activities. We provide fun, healthy exercise for bodies and minds. Our activities are so much fun, and nurture self-confidence, muscle coordination, and other social skills. We are unique because kids learn a mixture of different things, which keeps their minds interested. Learn details at

967-2983 www.sinowestsb.com/summercamps

YMCA Summer Camps

provide a safe, nurturing environment for children to learn, grow and develop social skills. At the Y, kids make friends, have fun, and discover who they are and what they can achieve. Financial assistance ensures every child is given the opportunity to be healthy, confident, connected and secure. For more on Day Camps, Sports Camps, Family Camp, Resident Camp, Swimming Lessons and more, visit your neighborhood Y or online at www.ciymca.org

FINANCE

CAMP MILLIONAIRE>

Raising money savvy adults can be quite a challenge these days. Let us help! Camp Millionaire is a game and activity-based financial education programs for kids and teens. Your kids will learn how to make, manage, multiply and donate their money wisely first hand in this week-long summer program, and they’ll have FUN doing it. Imagine your kids learning to pay themselves before they leave home without you!

957-1024 www.campmillionaire.com

GYMNASTICS

S.B. GYMNASTICS CLUB

Ages 2 – adult

Classes and teams for boys and girls, week and day camps, birthday parties, parade participation, private lessons, home school, shows.

No experience necessary.

Spring Break Day Camp March 26 – 30

Call for information and Summer Schedule

Mon.-Sat. day and evening classes. 4179 State St. 683- 1724 www.santabarbaragymnasticsclub.com

MARTIAL ARTS

KEN OTA’S AIKIDO WITH KI AND JUDO

Age range: 7 to 14

Aikido. The martial art with class! Learn to roll, protect the brain! Must learn before any other sport! Summer sessions begin June 13 and July 18. Children and teens classes: 1 hour Aikido/Ki + 1 hour Judo = 2-hour class (4:- 6 p.m.) Five weeks, five days a week. (two days/week classes also available.) Develop confidence, coordination, and respect. Camp location: 255 Magnolia Ave., Goleta June 11 and July 16

967-3103

MUSIC

GUHL MUSIC STUDIO

Piano and Keyboards Ages 3 to adult

• Traditional European music education in classical music, jazz and popular music

• Piano, keyboards, violin, cello, guitar, recorder, and music theoryTaught by a European-trained concert pianist who is a national leader in music technology

963-9884

SUMMER BAND CAMP

4th – 8th graders

Tuesday & Thursday mornings

June 12 – July 19

Concert band with SBCC’s ever popular Jim Mooy and staff. To be held at the First United Methodist Church 305 E. Anapamu at Garden. Cost $95. For more information and to register call or go online

569-5353 www.nickrailmusic.com

KINDERMUSIK WITH KATHY

June 25-Aug 20, Weekly Multi-Cultural Music, Rhythm, Song, Instruments n Dances combined with Art Instruction. Ages 4-10 years in SB and Carpinteria. • Intro Violin • Rockin’ Recorders & Playful Pianos • Musicals Camp– Voice, Dance, Acting and Performance Skills • Hawaiian Ukulele and ‘Hula’ Hooping Skills n Movement • African and Native American Songs, Dances n Drumming • Snazzy Jazz Songs, Games and Movement. Small Intimate Groups of 8-10 where your budding musician gets lots of attention…in the key of Love! SB Kindermusik & Friends.

884-4009 kindermusikathy@gmail.com www.KindermusikwithKathy.com

PERFORMING ARTS

C.A.T.S. Summer Camp

We are excited to bring our popular non-competitive, self-esteem building camps to Santa Barbara! Our 2012 season includes Camp Off-Broadway (ages 5-7), Camp Bound for Broadway – “The Wizard of Oz” (ages 7-13), Murder Mystery Drama Camp – “Murder at the Manor” (ages 9-14) & Commercial, Drama and Improv Acting Sampler (ages 9-14). Offering camps in Ventura County since 1996. For more inforamtion, please call or visit our website.

866- 490-4649  www.catssumercamps.com

PERFORMING AND VISUAL ARTS CAMP (PVAC)

Ages 8 – 14 Recognized by KEYT’s Children First Series, PVAC is a fun, high-energy arts camp where the campers sing, dance and perform. PVAC provides an opportunity for student participants to develop self-control, coordination, creativity and self-confidence through performing arts. PVAC – Where every kid’s a star! PVAC is a program of Children’s Creative Project and directed by Dauri Kennedy. 637-1191 www.sbpvac.org

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BOXTALES

A 3-week camp including training in acting, storytelling, movement and collaboration.

Campers will create an original stage production of the Greek myth Cupid & Psyche

June 18 – July 6

Mon-Thurs 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m

Fri 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.  at Lobero Theatre

Limited space so sign up early! Call

962-1142  www.boctales.org

Performing and Visual Arts Camp (PVAC)

Ages 8 – 14   July 12 – August 4   9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Recognized by KEYT’s Children First Series, PVAC is a fun, high-energy arts camp where the campers sing, dance and perform. PVAC provides an opportunity for student participants to develop self-control, coordination, creativity and self-confidence through performing arts. PVAC – Where every kid’s a star! PVAC is a program of Children’s Creative Project and directed by Dauri Kennedy.

637-1191 www.sbpvac.org

SANTA BARBARA MUSIC & ARTS CONSERVATORY

Each Saturday students ages 4-19 explore an integrated music and arts curriculum taught by faculty of the highest caliber. Founded in 1989 by Lana Bodnar, the program offers a complete range of courses including preparatory and advanced performance string ensembles, chamber music, Orff, junior choir, music appreciation, theater, visual arts, poetry, creative writing and publications. It is our goal to foster the full growth and creativity in our students. Contact us at

682-2370

www.sbmac.org

TRIPLE THREAT MUSICAL THEATER CAMP

Is hosted at Santa Barbara Festival Ballet June 18 – 22. Triple Threat Musical Theater Camp will focus on building confidence in the area of acting, singing, and dancing! Led by local professionals Kit Steinkellner, Sharlae Jenkins, Denise Rinaldi and Keely Moore, this camp is geared for the serious Musical Theater student, ages 12 – 18. Week ends with informal showcase on June 22 at Santa Barbara Festival Ballet studios. Contact Denise Rinaldi, artistic director at SB Festival Ballet, 1019-B Chapala St, Santa Barbara.email Info@santabarbarafestivalballet.com 966-0711 www.santabarbarafestivalballet.com

RESIDENT

CIRCLE V RANCH CAMP 2550 Highway 154, Across from Cachuma Lake Six Day/Five Nights Summer Sessions For Campers Ages 7-13 archery, arts & crafts, nature hikes, swimming, painting, photography, baseball, basketball, soccer, miniature golf, campfires, singing and skits air-conditioned cabins, three nutritious daily meals. Since 1945, a traditional summer camp operated by Society of St. Vincent de Paul Dates and Fees: Ray Lopez, Director, 688-5252 www.facebook.com/pages/Circle-V-Ranch-Camp/105307186181003

RIDING

HEARTS SUMMER HORSE CAMP

offers a unique equine experience for kids, ages 8-16. This inclusive camp pairs children with disabilities and their able-bodied peers to learn horseback riding and horsemanship. Working together, children gain an appreciation for the ways they are similar to and different from each other. Riders will demonstrate their new skills for family and friends in a horseshow each week. June 18-22 June 25-29 July 30 – Aug 3 $350 per person each week 964-1519 www.heartssb.org

SINGING

SANTA BARBARA CHILDREN’S CHORUS

All That jazz “Showtime” Summer Camp

Under the direction of SBCC Chorus Director Erin Bronski, kids and teens ages 8 – 14 will learn songs, vocal techniques, choreography and movement culminating with a performance at the end of the camp. No audition or prior experience necessary; July 16-27, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., Unitarian Society of Santa Barbara, 1535 Santa Barbara St., $450 — limited scholarships available. Register online or call

www.childrenschorus.com 512-9840

YOUNG SINGERS CLUB PERFORMING ARTS CAMPS

at Mountain View School – top-quality experience for anyone who likes to sing. In addition to fun and helpful vocal training, students prepare for an exciting end-of-week performance. Camp week includes professional and age-appropriate voice instruction, solo singing opportunities, choreography, microphone techniques, drama, skits, acting games, and more. Small classes. Various age groups (5+, 7+, 9+, 12+) and themes: Junior High Broadway, Glee, Mamma Mia, Rock and Roll Forever, My Fair Lady, Wizard of Oz, Annie, Sound of Music, Disney, Beatles, Taylor Swift, Selena Gomez songs. For more information call 681-7078   or go to www.youngsingersclub.com

SOCCER

AYSO Soccer Camps

coming to your area!

Please visit our website to sign up to an AYSO Camp this summer.

Experienced and highly qualified coaches, from the UK are running soccer camps for all youth players throughout the Santa Barbara area this summer. Please visit our website

www.aysosoccercamps.org

to find your camp!

681-7078 www.youngsingersclub.com

SPORTS/ADAPTIVE

CHALLENGERS

Challenger teams are for girls and boys ages 5- 18 years old with physical challenges and/or developmental special needs. Games are adapted to their needs. Wheelchair users welcomed. Buddy support available for players needing assistance. Teams for all levels of play meet throughout Santa Barbara and Ventura counties. Registration remains open through the season. Visit or join us anytime!

Join us for Summer Baseball Camp with the Santa Barbara Foresters

info@GoChallengers.org 681-9165 www.GoChallengers.org

SPORTS

Page Youth Center (PYC)

Whether your child loves basketball, soccer or volleyball, PYC provides a safe, fun environment for “keeping good kids good.” Online registration available or pick up a form at PVC, located at 4540 Hollister Ave. in S.B. For more information, go online or call

967-8778

www.pageyouthcenter.org

WESTMONT WARRIORS SUMMER CAMPS

are a great way to receive instruction in a variety of sports skills from our collegiate coaches. Experience our new facilities by participating in Basketball, Baseball, Soccer, Tennis, Track & Field, Volleyball and Sports Skills for ages 5-14. Choose between half day camps or full day camps (extended care available). All camps at Westmont College: 955 La Paz Road.

565-6110

www.westmont.edu/sports/camps.

WATER SPORTS

BEACH HOUSE SURF ADVENTURES

Week-long surf camp takes place at Leadbetter Beach. Long, rolling waves make it great for beginners. Camp is suited for kids with basic swimming skills. Each camper receives a camp T-shirt, hat, lunch(from Shoreline Cafe) and a great surfing experience. One, two, three, or four-day camps prorated. Week-long sessions available June 11-Aug. 17. $59 daily or $295 a week. Ages 8+. Call the Beach House at

963-1281 www.santabarbarasurfadventures.com

HENDRY’S BEACH JR. LIFEGUARDS

Learn ocean rescue recognition and rescue techniques, use of paddleboard, first aid and CPR. The program is designed to help improve your child’s physical conditioning while emphasizing the importance of safety, respect and camaraderie. Activities include running, swimming, paddling, surfing, water sports, beach games and training drills. also learn about marine ecology, the environment and marine life. July 2-20, July 23 to August 10. Weekdays from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Early drop off available $25 early enrollment discount

729-5028 sbcojg@sbparks.org www.sbparks.org/jg

HIDDEN OAKS CLUBHOUSE FAMILY SWIM CLUB

Daily Memberships – Open May 1 – Nov 1

Quiet private unguarded pool, Children under 7 free with adult membership

11am – 7pm daily Pool toys welcome/no lap swimming

Beautiful mountain View

967-5574 www.HiddenOakscCubhouse.com

THE REFUGIO JUNIOR LIFEGUARD

is an educational and recreational summer program for kids ages 7 to 17. Activities include surfing, kayaking, snorkeling, volleyball, beach games and more. Curriculum includes: Ocean lifesaving, first aid and CPR, environmental awareness and much more. Instructors are State Parks lifeguards, EMTs, and credentialed teachers. We offer two 4-week sessions each summer. For more information, call or go to the website

8968-3834 www.RefugioJG.com

WENDY FEREDAY

SWIM SCHOOL

is led by a group of talented and energetic professionals dedicated to your child’s success in swimming.The owner and outstanding staff have redefined the swimming lesson experience for thousands of children by providing a unique, creative, animated and challenging style of teaching that keeps children smiling, swimming and safe! Our program enables children to obtain swimming skills at the earliest possible age at which they are able to acquire and apply them. We teach 2-1/2 months to adults at three locations and they all have warm water! Sign-up now!

964-7818 www.feredayswimschool.com

Marcia Burtt “Spring Sky” Acrylic 24” X 28” courtesy photo

It‘s an opportunity to enjoy nature, live music and view and purchase landscape, abstract, portrait and figurative art at this SCAPE (Southern California Artists Painting for the Environment) 5th annual event — from which 40 percent of each sale is donated to Phoenix of Santa Barbara, a nonprofit mental health agency. The event takes place at 37 Mountain Drive (corner of Mission Canyon Road and Mountain Drive) on Saturday, May 26, from 2 to 6 p.m. and Sunday and Monday, May 27 and 28 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Artist Marcia Burtt will be honored at an award presentation on Saturday 2 to 4 p.m. for her contribution to the local art scene and her work, pictured, will be on exhibit along with more than 33 well-know local SCAPE artists including Patty Doyle, Ann Sanders, Susan Belloni. Don Crocker, Larry Iwerks, and Blair and Jeremy Harper to name just a few. The live entertainment includes the singing gardener, Doug Giordani, Glendessary Jam, Larry and the Ocean All-Stars, a “Pat Milliken Hour” that also features music by his friends, the Possums, and more TBA. Got questions? Call 689-5053 or check www.s-c-a-p-e.org

Santa Barbara Museum of Art, Behind the Wheels

Jane Gottlieb, Dusty Ford, 1999. courtesy photo

Opening May 5, this exhibit will examine the love affair between Southern Californians and their automobiles through images chosen from the SBMA’s permanent collection. On December 12, 1925 the world’s first motel opened north of Santa Barbara. At that time the Milestone Mo-Tel in San Luis Obispo sat along the nascent two-lane Highway 101 and charged $1.25 a night for a bungalow with attached garage. The era of automobiles as status symbols had begun and it was only those with cruise-worthy cars who would stop at the Motel Inn when traveling between Los Angeles and San Francisco. The photographs explore the psychological place of the car in Southern California life and whether in celebration, investigation or incrimination, all of the photographs depict those unique mental states that can only be produced behind the wheel. The exhibit runs through August 12. SBMA, 1130 Sate Street, open Tuesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Monday. Got questions? Call 963-4364 or check www.sbma.net

Wash away the dust of everyday life…

at the

Santa Barbara Music & Arts Conservatory’s annual showcase

of student performers

by Stephanie Wilson                                       Photography by Paul Wintz

The students chosen for the 2012 Annual Soloists Showcase are, front row (L-R), Sofiya Prykhitko, Michael Sikich, Camille Miller, Joshelle Conley; back row, (L-R), Andrew Horak, Marcos Schneider, Grace Stanton, Daria Etezadi and Sophia Sheng.

When you take a group of dedicated young musicians, kids who get up early every Saturday morning to attend classes not only in music, but also in visual art, theater and creative writing, and you place them in front of a full orchestra, what do you get? You get a breathtaking display of young talent grown from years of study and hard work; you get an afternoon of entertainment that rivals the level of many professional symphony orchestras; you get music that washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.

The Granada Theatre will once again be host to the Santa Barbara Music and Arts Conservatory (SBMAC) for their 28th Annual Young Soloists Showcase on Sunday, May 6 at 3 p.m. where student musicians will perform as featured soloists in front of a full orchestra, under the musical direction of conductor Alvana Eisenberg. “This [performance] represents many hours of hard work and a very serious dedication to their craft,” says Nina Bodnar, SBMAC artistic director who is excited about the level of commitment and talent of the students who were chosen for this year’s concert.

“I’ve enjoyed learning how to collaborate with the conductor and orchestra, and learn the music within that collaborative context,” says pianist Michael Sikich, who has been studying classical piano for 11 years and jazz for five. A high school senior, Michael auditioned for nine of the most prestigious music schools in the country, and has been accepted to several including New England Conservatory of Music, Indiana, University and Oberlin College, among others. “Now,” he added,  “I’m just trying to decide!”

Violinist Camille Miller, who will play Sarasate’s Zigeunerweisen, has been accepted to several colleges for next year and has chosen the University of Southern California. She has been studying violin since she was 8 years old, and has performed several times as a soloist on SBMAC’s annual Showcase. Another returning violinist this year is Sofiya Prykhitko who will perform Henri Wieniawski.  Polonaise in D Major. Soifya, who moved to the United States 16 years ago from the Ukraine, also sings with the San Marcos Madrigals.

Daria Etezadi, who attends Laguna Blanca, will play the Warsaw Concerto by Richard Addinsell, a single-movement work written for the 1941 film Dangerous Moonlight. The filmmakers wanted something in the style of Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, but were unable to persuade Rachmaninoff himself to write a new piece.  Clearly, Daria loves a challenge.

Classes at SBMAC are challenging and involved, but also allow time for fun as witness by gifted student pianist Michael Sikich’s tongue-in–cheek shot at playing a violin.

More returning soloists include violinist Andrew Horak who will graduate from Laguna Blanca in 2014. He will be performing Violin Concerto in d minor, by Max Bruch. And pianist Grace Stanton, whose first passion is to play chamber music, is still excited to take the solo spotlight with a full orchestra for a performance of Concerto in f minor by Frederick Chopin.

Sophia Zheng, who will play Schumann’s Concerto in a minor, is a 10th grader who performed in her first SBMAC Showcase at the age of 10. She says, “Getting to play with an orchestra is one of the best musical experiences I have ever had!” Also performing on a second SBMAC showcase is violinist Joshelle Conley who will perform Bruch’s Concerto in g minor and travels from San Luis Obispo each Saturday to attend the Music & Arts Conservatory.

First time soloist Marcos Schnieder was so excited to be invited to perform that he posted it on his Facebook page.  He says “I feel very honored and somewhere in between excited and nervous!” A pianist from Bishop Diego High School  — and at the top of his class scholastically — he will perform J.S. Bach’s Concerto in f minor.

SBMAC artistic director Nina Bodnar is hopeful that classical music is alive, well and nurturing a new generation. But perhaps poet Berthold Auerbach captured the nurturing magic of music best when he said:  “Music washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.”

For tickets at $25 adults, $10 seniors/students and free to children age 12 and under, call the Granada Box Office at 899-2222 or purchase online at www.granadasb.org and for more information about SBMAC call 751-6227, email info@sbmac.org, or visit www.sbmac.org

Stephanie Wilson is artistic director of the Gold Coast Theatre Conservatory in Thousand Oaks.

The students chosen for the 2012 Annual Soloists Showcase are, front row (L-R), Sofiya Prykhitko, Michael Sikich, Camille Miller, Joshelle Conley; back row, (L-R), Andrew Horak, Marcos Schneider, Grace Stanton, Daria Etezadi and Sophia Sheng.

Classes at SBMAC are challenging and involved, but also allow time for fun as witness by gifted student pianist Michael Sikich’s tongue-in–cheek shot at playing a violin.

Wendy Water Wise Safety Tips

By Wendy Fereday

It is estimated nearly 75% of the Earth’s surface  is covered in water! Even our bodies are made up of 65 percent water. Water is everywhere and an essesntial part of our lives. Here in Santa Barbara, we are fortunate to be surrounded by breathtaking water. We have miles of beautiful beaches, lakes, pools, and ponds. All the more reason to be water wise with your family!

Drowning, is one of the leading causes of death among children between the ages of 1 and 4 years old. We can turn this statistic around using basic water safety rules and orienting our kids to the water as early as possible. It is also essential to identify possible drowning dangers around your home and neighborhood. Here are some basic guidelines to prevent drowning:

Infants – children less than 1 year of age

Bathtubs – infants can drown in 1-2 inches of water. Never leave an infant alone in the bathtub. Bathtub seats are not safety items that can be relied upon. Always have adult supervision.

Buckets – 5 gallon buckets are a drowning site for infants. One baby each week drowns in a bucket. A crawling toddler is top- heavy, and once they have fallen in, then cannot get themselves out. The bucket, when filled with liquid, weighs more than the baby and will not tip over.

Toilets – carry the same warning as buckets. Use a toilet lock.

  – Ages 1 – 4 years

Preschoolers primarily drown in home swimming pools and hot tubs or spas.

•     70 percent drown in their own pool

•     20 percent drown in a relative’s pool

•     75 percent were being supervised by one of two parents

•     70 percent were not in a bathing suit

•    46 percent  were last seen in the home

•     They were missing less than five minutes and the drowning  was silent

The prevention of drowning requires multiple layers of protection; learning to swim is not the only answer.

Fereday Swim School – 964-7818 or www.feredayswimschool.com

Dear Susan,

My mom has been diagnosed with early onset dementia, and I’m confused about how to be truly compassionate and give her the emotional support she will need in addition to her treatment.

Sincerely yours,

April, Goleta, CA

Dear April,

Understanding your mom’s needs for respect, understanding, support, and peace allows you to begin to craft conversations with her that will minimize judgment, anger, and the frustration you may feel in the future. Being able to be with your mom in a way that allows her to grieve, and you to grieve the diagnosis may also be of great value to her now. The communication skill that is most effective here is The 6 Part Conversation which I am happy to send you. In addition, as she is not able to research and proceed with medical and holistic breakthroughs with full effectiveness, you can be the conduit to well-being for her now, remembering that you need to motivate and inspire rather than force her.

Dear Susan,

My boy has been having such a time with drugs, and I’ve driven him to meetings, sat with him, talked to him, and listened to him but it’s not enough. His dad and I have become desperate, and I heard on your show that you have a system that parents can use; what do we do?

Sincerely yours,

Roberta, Santa Barbara, CA

Dear Roberta,

When Hope and 12 Steps Are Not Enough is a training that allows “one committed family member” to provide additional support to the 12 Steps and rehab program so that your son receives the full-time understanding and support that he needs. Most people suffering with addictions have needs that they have not been able to meet, such as the need for inner peace, hope, joy, energy, self-respect, or success, etc. When you are trained to understand the needs that your son has been trying to meet with drugs and learn to work with him to solve these challenges in a peaceful way, then he will be more motivated to get clean and, when he does, he will have his life back and so will you.

Sincerely yours,

Susan

www.ustream.tv/channel/evolution-revolution1 1st Tuesday show 3-4 p.m. Channel 17 Tuesday 8 – 9 a.m., Fri. 6-7 p.m. and Monday 1-2 a.m, www.ustream.tv/channel/compassionate-connection 2nd  and 4th Tuesdays 8-9 p.m Gathering in Santa Barbara, check for details. Susan Allan is a leading relationship expert and creator of The Heartspace System© available through The Marriage Forum, and offers Love, Marriage and Divorce coaching and mediation. For answers to your questions and for a one-hour free, private telephone coaching session, contact  susan@susanallan.org  Please visit us at www.susanallan.org

I was fortunate to be able to attend the grand reopening of the Garvin Theatre at Santa Barbara City College last month. What a great venue, not only for actors and musicians to perform in, but also a comfortable setting, with stadium seating, for the public to enjoy. We are gifted in more ways than one to have so many wonderful performing arts programs in our community from which to choose.

Education is such an important component for communities at large. Can you imagine how amazing the world would be if there were a system in place that promoted every child’s personal talents/interests? Many important opportunities for learning often get ignored because so many schools only support certain forms of experience as having value. Unfortunately, this country doesn’t make education the priority it should be.  Most educational programs don’t weave into their curricula a way to allow for variations in the way we learn, hence those who don’t conform to the learning criteria often get left behind. We prioritize certain types of thinking and testing, and judge those who think outside the norm as being less than those who do. No big surprise that so many kids end up feeling unworthy trying to compete in a system that only supports and acknowledges those who excel in what is set up as the standard. The young boy who has a fascination for comic books, but is told reading this type of material is junk, could easily get turned off to reading. Instead, if he were encouraged to read regardless of the subject matter, he would have a better chance at eventually getting turned on to other more sophisticated reading material. If he were told he has a gift for understanding the characters and how they are woven into the storyline, he might even get excited about writing his own stories. And this could transform his entire attitude about learning. If you want to turn kids on to education, just find even one thing they are passionate about and support that interest. It will build self-esteem, excitement about learning in general and promote them in finding their own means of expression.

Legend has it that Einstein was a poor student who flunked out of school, but this isn’t true. He excelled at math and science, although he often got grades in other classes that were mediocre. He was fortunate to have people around him who encouraged his interest in math and science. That’s the key. He was stimulated in the areas where he had interests. Not only do we need scientists and mathematicians, we also need electricians, musicians, artists, gardeners, etc.

Finding, encouraging and promoting each child’s excitement is the key to unlocking future adults who will make a contribution to society instead of creating kids who don’t feel they fit in, end up dropping out and become burdens. I could go on, but I’m running out of room. Bottom line: We need to rethink our priorities; education should be No. 1. It affects the future of all of us. All children deserves the opportunity to express their individual gifts and talents, be educated in a system that works, and be made to feel they have value. And it should be affordable! Please let your voice be heard, and don’t let Congress raise interest rates on student loans. That would be a good beginning.

Nansie Chapman

MA Clinical Psychology

www.nansie.com     www.facebook.com/nansiechapman