Bringing back the Benson Theatre

by Jarrett Fontaine

The roaring 1920’s meant a lot of new things in America. It was a coming-of-age era which saw flappers redefining modern womanhood, jazz music flourishing, and the rise of community theatres. That nationwide liberation appeared locally as well, with the foundation of what was then known as the Benalto Theatre in Benson in 1923. In 1927 it was called the Benson Theatre, and belonged to a chain of neighborhood...

Silent Waters at MAM…EVENTgelical art dreams…

by Sally Deskins

Thursday at Bemis brings the art talk with James Murray (painting), Catherine Lane (drawing) and Julie Schenkelberg (installation). At Modern Arts Midtown, Silent Waters opens May 3, featuring new work by Judith Burton (oil painting), Michael James (fiber art), and Amy Smith (clay works). The Lincoln artists share an “understated, sophisticated palette.” Modernartsmidwest.com.

EVENTgelical Productions’ weekend...

Playhouse ‘Desire’ Not Too Big for Drew

by Warren Francke

I have two problems with Bob Fischbach’s reviews in the World-Herald, and they both popped up again in his takes on the pair now running at the Omaha Community Playhouse. First, he lavished praise on the hilarity of Lend Me a Tenor.

My problem, given the daily’s advantage in reaching the print audience first, was that I completely agreed with him. Funniest ever. So I felt less enthusiasm for spreading the word...

A Delicate Measure

by Sally Deskins

To ancient peoples, reed was vital to well being and thus brought on significant meanings; as a useful natural form it represented the connection with life. Thatch roofs on their homes symbolized protection. Giving off a sweet smell with maceration it symbolized purification. Made into candles it meant light. Crafted into a flute it communicated beauty and was viewed as an initiator of an otherworldly voice.

Mr. Mummy

by Cheril Lee

He’s known as Mr. Mummy, but Bob Brier’s love of Egypt happened rather late in life and unexpectedly. 

Brier is a Senior Research Fellow at the CW Post Campus of Long Island University. He said he had been through a couple of careers first, including chairing the philosophy department at his university. He had finished medical school and already had his Ph.D. when he had a basketball accident. 

While...

Girl Crazy

by Mary Day

The New BLK Ad Agency, Art Gallery, and Creative Think Tank is an “all boys house” according to Shawn Bainbridge, co-owner. This makes the venue an even more interesting site for Les Femmes Folles: VOICE the current feminist art exhibition now on view.

Curated by Sally Deskins and Megan Loudon Sanders, the exhibition features work by Marcia Joffe-Bouska, Sally Deskins, Wanda Ewing, Kristin Lubbert, Jewel Noll,...