Norman Arts Council

Son del Barrio to play Summer Breeze

By NAC Wednesday July 28, 2010

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One of Oklahoma’s most popular bands will get concertgoers dancing in the park when it brings salsa and meringue music to Andrews Park Sunday, Aug. 1.

Son del Barrio (Sound of the Neighborhood) will perform in the park’s amphitheater at 7:30 p.m. The concert is presented as part of the Performing Arts Studio’s Summer Breeze concert series.

Since forming in 2002, Son del Barrio has introduced thousands of Oklahomans — Latinos and non-Latinos alike – to the salsa and merengue genres. The band’s rhythmic foundation is Armando Rivera, widely considered the best Latin percussionist in the state. Rounding out the group are Robert Ruiz on trumpet; Wilmari Ruiz on flute; and Osmay Gutierrez Danger, trumpet and lead vocals.

A genre that incorporates multiple styles and variations, salsa was brought to international fame by Cuban and Puerto Rican musicians who immigrated to the New York City area in the 1960s and ’70s. Although essentially Cuban Caribbean in stylistic origin, salsa also incorporates pop, jazz, rock and R&B music.

Merengue originated in the Dominican Republic. Its name is taken from the Spanish name of the meringue, a dessert made from whipped egg whites and sugar, and may trace its meaning from the movement on the dance floor that could remind one of an egg beater in action.

“Son del Barrio continues to be one of the most popular Summer Breeze concerts,” said Mark Levy, Performing Arts Studio Board President. “It’s not unusual to see hundreds of people forming conga lines. Fans are always excited to see this show.”

Concertgoers are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and picnic baskets to enjoy the free outdoor show.

The Summer Breeze Concert Series is supported by grants from the Norman Arts Council and Oklahoma Arts Council, as well as the generous support of many local businesses, organizations and individuals.

Upcoming shows in the Summer Breeze Concert Series:

Aug 15 – Chuck Allen Floyd – Lions Park

Aug 29 – Dylan Hammett – Lions Park

Sep 12 – Mama Sweet – Lions Park
(previously 07/11 at Andrews Park)

Sep 19 – Sierra Hull – Lions Park

For more information about Summer Breeze and other PAS programs, call (405) 307-9320 or visithttp://thepas.org.

Dustbowl Arts Market seeks artist, vendor applications

By NAC Friday July 23, 2010

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Dustbowl Arts Market is stirring up some creativity in Oklahoma.

The art and handmade market is accepting artist applications for its third event on August 28th in Norman. Dustbowl will feature more than 50 local and regional artists and handmade vendors. Pottery, painting, photography, jewelry, prints, screen-printing, clothing, accessories and textiles will be among the items for sale at Dustbowl.

Dustbowl co-chair Katie Huskerson said the event focuses on local commerce, building community and promoting originality.

“We feel that Oklahoma and surrounding states have a multitude of creative people,” Huskerson said. “We’ve designed Dustbowl to encourage and provide a practical venue for artists to display and sell their work.”

Located on Campus Corner in Norman, Dustbowl will kick off the University of Oklahoma’s school year. Shopping will be from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and patrons can enjoy live music from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. The market will feature a Kid’s Corner designed to promote creativity at a young age.

This year, Dustbowl has teamed up with Blackwatch Studios to bring an amazing line-up of musicians – Evangelicals, Colourmusic, The NON, Native Lights, Jacob Abello, Pretty Black Chains, Samantha Crain, Sherree Chamberlain, Brine Webb, Unwed Sailor, and Brother Gruesome.

“August 28th is the first Saturday that campus life will be back in full swing,” Huskerson said. “We’re excited to offer another incentive for Norman and merto-area residents to visit Campus Corner and support the shop local movement.”

Artist applications are due on July 24th. Download applications and learn more at DustbowlArtsMarket.com.

CAN welcomes Darryl Cox for July Workshop

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The Cinematic Artists of Norman will hold their July workshop on Monday, July 26 beginning at 7 p.m. at the Firehouse Arts Center, 444 S. Flood, Norman.
Featured guest will be Darryl Cox – a professional actor whose career spans the spectrum of major film and television productions. Among his credits are over 40 principal roles [...]

Big Smith to Perform at Summer Breeze – July 18

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The Performing Arts Studio welcomes the return of Big Smith to the Summer Breeze stage Sunday, July 18 at the Andrews Park Amphitheatre, 201 W. Daws St. The free concert is scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m
Bring a picnic basket, perhaps a blanket to soften the concrete seating or lawn chairs for the grassy area [...]

DIY Filmmaking

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Seven riveting hours of how to make a GOOD independent film offered at a special discount to Cinematic Artists of Norman members!
From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, July 17th at the Comfort Inn in Oklahoma City, members of the crew of the upcoming Okie-based film Rolling Stoned will be holding a DIY Filmmaking [...]

First Annual OCA Symposium on the Future of Music

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What: First Annual OCA Symposium on the Future of Music
When: Saturday, July 10, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Where: Sonder Music, Dance & Art (225 E Gray St, Norman, OK, 73069)
Cost: Free
Parking: Free parking is available on the street in front of Sonder Music, Dance & Art, as well [...]