Tag: Uncovering Oklahoma Page 8 of 77

The Launch of The Show Starts Now

On May 16, 2023

I am thrilled to finally launch The Show Starts Now! Dive headfirst into a world of curated experiences designed to shatter your humdrum routine with The Show Starts Now. The unique, Oklahoma-based streaming service is more than just entertainment—it’s a passport to electrifying adventures. We celebrate the extraordinary in the everyday, bringing you closer to inspiring individuals, captivating locales, mesmerizing skills, and unforgettable journeys.

Today’s official launch is a far cry from the beta preview I shared back in October. For the first time, this feels complete, like I’m proud to share what I’ve made. I closed the beta access a few months after being released because the platform wasn’t getting any traction, only having one subscriber. A few months ago, I met with a brand consultant, Jenn Easley-Maynord of Artio Services, who gave me some much-needed insight and direction. One was a slight name, dropping “Studio.” I was advised that the word could be confusing with people thinking I’m a studio facility, like Parire Surf Studios. I went with the .tv domain to help with branding, too. The price was lowered from $7.99 to $5.99, matching other indie OTTs like Dropout.tv and Rooster Teeth.

Another central pivot from the beta version, I kept the location focus broad, and now I’ve leaned into the Oklahoma focus. This includes adding Uncovering Oklahoma, which was not my original plan. I dug through my archives, re-editing all of my old stories back from 2017, improving the image and sound quality, changing some music with better tracks, updating graphics, and other adjustments. Not everything was uploaded to The Show Starts Now, as I didn’t bother with closed businesses, episodes that got shuttered to another series, or places I have on my shortlist to revisit for an updated story. On a related note, the complete Tales Unveiled podcast series was added to the service with audio improvements as my skills have grown.

While older Uncovering Oklahoma episodes were improved, they were not as dramatic as the first season of Yes! Science! Initially released in 2019, Pallas the Librarian interviewed people in various STEM-related careers about their work, performed fun science experiments, and discussed books that have inspired our guests. The enhanced season includes some newly filmed Science Fact segments with Exhale and The Museum of Osteology. Pallas and I plan to work on season two, with our first episode being filmed in partnership with Sooner Con!

Also first released in 2019 was Art & Victory. This was a monthly panel discussion series for creative entrepreneurs. Again, the pandemic stopped me from continuing the series. For The Show Starts Now, I took the brand and spun the concept into three series: Discussions, Lessons, and Sessions. Discussions feature live audience panel chats, while sessions are one-off artistic creation videos, and lessons are multi-part guides. The Arts Council of Oklahoma City and I worked together to create the initial Lessons and Sessions on the service, which in trade, they also get a copy branded for their platform.

Take A Bite with Phi and Visiting Haunts are brand new series I created exclusively for The Show Starts Now. The entire first season of Take A Bite with Phi is available, while Jeff and I plan to film the reason for Visiting Haunts this summer. I’m just hoping to get subscribers so we can afford to travel, as we would love to feature out-of-state places like Eureka Springs. I also want to go to Texas for Creative Burgers.

The entire first season of Archiving Contemporary Art is available, with the first season consisting of stories from Uncovering Oklahoma. The series gets inside the minds of artists and art collectives about their creative works. Episodes from season two will be released soon, which are brand new. I have several episodes worth of content that needs to be edited, but my goal was to get the first season complete for the streaming service.

I have first to thank my wonderful wife, Leslie, who none of this wouldn’t be possible without her support. Seriously, I wouldn’t be able to take on as many creative projects without here because, let’s be honest, none of these shows are paying the bills. I do hope that changes soon with the launch of The Show Starts Now and that I’ll be able to pay other people’s bills. Continuing the special thanks to Jeff Provine, Lessa Keller-Kenton, Pallas, Phi Nguyen, Sherl Martin, Vicki Langford, Christian Pearson, Kristy Boone, Apollo Woods, Justin Coleman, and Undrell Maholmes for working with me to create many of these videos. Thanks to everyone I ever interviewed for all of my shows. Thanks to everyone who supported or still supports me on Patreon. Thanks to everyone who shared one of my works. Honestly, thank you, everyone!

I hope you take a moment to subscribe, watch a few videos, and enjoy The Show Starts Now. I’m open to feedback and suggestions for what you want to see in the future. If you can’t subscribe now, follow The Show Starts Now on YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook.

Happy Adventures!

People gathered around for gaming night in a D&D lounge

The Kobold Lounge

By Dennis

On May 11, 2023

In Real

The Kobold Lounge in Oklahoma City is a unique community hub designed for tabletop gaming enthusiasts. Originating from a private Dungeons & Dragons group, the lounge has evolved over the past five years into an all-inclusive venue for various tabletop games, including Magic the Gathering, Monsters vs. Heroes, and board games such as Monopoly and Risk.

One of the lounge’s distinguishing features is its wealth of resources available for players. These include books and materials for crafting game maps, fostering an environment conducive to creativity and communal play. The lounge also boasts state-of-the-art technology with its virtual tabletops, allowing players to utilize digital, moving maps for an immersive gaming experience.

The Kobold Lounge also offers classes that teach newcomers the basics of playing D&D – from character creation to combat and group interaction – making it a welcoming space for both beginners and veteran gamers. The owner invites everyone to come to The Kobold Lounge and experience the joy of tabletop gaming in a warm, inclusive environment.

Apple Tree Chocolate

By Dennis

On April 27, 2023

In Real

Uncover the sweet world of Apple Tree Chocolate in this interview with owner Scotty Jackson. Born from a desire to fill a gap in the market for quality desserts and chocolates, Apple Tree Chocolate has grown into a beloved local business on Main Street. Crafting their products in-house, they offer various treats guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. Indulge in their popular turtle caramel apples, made with a perfected recipe that represents 15% of Granny Smith apples sold in Oklahoma, or savor their mouthwatering fudge made in small batches. Apple Tree Chocolate is more than just a candy store – it’s a unique experience that invites you to taste test and interact with their knowledgeable staff. Join them all year long for a fun, sweet experience you won’t forget.

Michelangelo’s Coffee & Wine Bar

By Dennis

On April 20, 2023

In Real

Nestled in the heart of Norman, Michelangelo’s Coffee and Wine Bar is a local hangout spot known for its laid-back, cozy atmosphere. The coffee bar takes pride in offering an extensive range of specialty lattes with over 30 syrups. The relaxed ambiance makes it an ideal spot for studying, socializing, or enjoying weekend live music. Michelangelo’s frequently showcases a featured artist on their front wall and hosts musicians during the 2nd Friday Norman Art Walk.

With its emphasis on community, Michelangelo’s Coffee and Wine Bar is always looking for new musicians and artists to feature, encouraging locals to be part of their growing community. Offering a selection of local wines alongside their specialty coffee, Michelangelo’s invites you to come and experience the warmth and charm that has made them a beloved destination for many.

P.S. While you’re in Norman, visit MAINSITE Contemporary Art before May 12, 2023, to experience the interactive film, The Walker Arts District Branching Narrative Extravaganza! Michelangelo’s is one of the scenes in my short film.

The Art of Food

By Dennis

On February 10, 2023

In Real

The Art of Food exhibition at Oklahoma Contemporary is an exceptional showcase of 100 objects by 36 artists highlighting the themes of food and its relationship to agriculture, food production, and family. The University of Arizona Art Museum and Olivia Miller organized the exhibition and featured works from the Jordan Schnitzer and his family foundation collection. The themes present in the show are relatable to everyone as they center around food and the meaning it holds in our lives.

The exhibition is divided into seven sections, each delving deeper into the themes of food and its connection to our lives. Visitors can expect to see works from renowned 20th-century artists and up-and-coming 21st-century artists. Katherine Ace, Neal Ambrose-Smith, Chris Antemann, John Baldessari, Joseph Beuys, Enrique Chagoya, Corwin Clairmont, Warrington Colescott, Robert Cottingham, Abraham Cruzvillegas, Richard Estes, David Gilhooly, Robert Gober, Red Grooms, Damien Hirst, David Hockney, Jenny Holzer, Malia Jensen, Jasper Johns, Alex Katz, Ellsworth Kelly, Roy Lichtenstein, Hung Liu, Bruce Nauman, Claes Oldenburg, Robert Rauschenberg, Ed Ruscha, Alison Saar, Analia Saban, Jonathan Seliger, Lorna Simpson, Donald Sultan, Wayne Thiebaud, Andy Warhol, Rachel Whiteread, and Sherrie Wolf are artists featured in this show.

Watch my video tour with Director Jeremiah Matthew Davis, who provides an overview of the exhibition and shares detailed discussions on artworks by Chris Anteman, Enrique Chagoya, Andy Warhol, and Ed Ruscha.

The Art of Food provides a unique and thought-provoking look into the relationship between food and art. Whether you are an art lover or simply interested in food and its impact on society, this exhibition will surely be a memorable and educational experience.

You can now enjoy new Uncovering Oklahoma episodes and select timeless stories ad-free and algorithm-free over at The Show Starts Now! Based in Oklahoma, our mission is to add adventure to your life by introducing you to new experiences. You’re sure to have an adventure from trying new foods to learning new skills to visiting fascinating places. Expand your horizons by starting your free trial today.

Thanks to my superstar supporters, Revolve Productions, Christopher Lloyd, and the Keller-Kenton Family, as well as all of my supporters on Patreon.