By Robin Rosemond
Turnagain Times Correspondent
Alaska may be the best place in the world to be right now. Not simply because of the natural beauty, but because the people here are amazing. A perfect example of what I mean about the people, is the Freeze Project. A stroll down the Delaney Park Strip (between E and I Street) to see The Freeze Project will explain what I’m writing about. This month long event features snow, ice, light and a chilled look at the Alaskan spirit. The volunteers have literally been freezing to get the snow and ice perfect for public viewing. The story of the making could be a book in itself. For more info go to: www.freezeproject.org/alaska/, but do try and get there.
I recommend going to Crush Wine Bar and Cellar. It’s a happening wine bar and bistro at the entrance of the 5th Avenue Mall. Don’t let the dark windows and minimal exterior put you off, the place is warm and attentive. The first time I ventured in, I was lucky enough to be sitting with five men. Yes, five. Four of us drank Malbec, one had a Chardonnay, and the fifth man was drinking bottled beer. We shared a meat and cheese platter, which was delicious and well presented. They’re known for their ‘simple food with sophistication’. Crush is a fun, friendly spot and although described to me as ‘spendy’, I think it’s comparable to most eateries in the downtown area. The customers that I dined near, and who nearly filled the hot, spot seemed to be having a great time. The waiters were professional, educated and interesting. Crush Wine Bar and Cellar, 343 West 6th Avenue at D Street. 907 865-9198.
Linking the Freeze Project with Crush Wine Bar is easy, because Crush is hosting a Freeze Project and Northern Writers reading Event, January 16th at 7 p.m. Please come meet the people involved and listen to the writing about this exciting cultural event and imbibe in great wine and food
For the film aficionados, you can head to the Bear Tooth for the Telluride Festival of Film, January 16th & 17th. Catch Save Me, The Boy With The Stripped Pajamas, or Rock n Rolla, which boasts the beautiful Thandie Newton, and a good sound track with some choice tunes such as; The Sonics, Have Love, The Subways, Rock and Roll Queen and The Beat classic, Mirror in the Bathroom. Tickets are $11. For more info: www.beartooththeatre.com
The Capital Steps will perform at the Atwood Concert Hall January 23rd. This hysterically, funny comedy group will have no trouble poking fun at Alaskan Politics. Check out their web site: www.capsteps.com. Tickets are $25-4$5 and available at www.centertix.com.
Check out Libby, a play based on the diary of an Alaskan Pioneer. Using Libby Beaman’s letters, journals, and sketches from her time spent in the Pribilof Islands from 1879-80. Elizabeth Ware has created a beautiful portrait of one of Alaska’s colorful characters. The show runs through the 25th of January at Cyrano’s Off Center Playhouse. For more info: www.cyranos.org
If you have an event or venue that you would like published in “Out of the Town” email Robin at: rosebud61155@mac.com or check out my blog: www.rosemondpost.com.