Latest news with #TheSaloon
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
The Saloon cuts funding for drag performers, putting some shows at risk
A lineup change is coming to The Saloon Bar, which is reducing funding for its long-running drag shows, forcing at least one of them to cancel. One of the longest-running gay bars in the Twin Cities, The Saloon is a staple in the drag community, hosting multiple shows a week ranging from competitions to variety shows. It's a proven platform for many performers and producers to break out into the drag scene and make money, with The Saloon typically paying performers for their talents. However, bar management is now paring back its investment in drag shows, only paying for performances of its Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday shows: Werk and Hot Pink. "We are at the point financially, especially with the economy downtown, where we just can't put out the kind of money that we were putting out for drag," Bobby Palmer, the Saloon's manager, said to Bring Me The News. "We still support all of our drag producers. We still support all of our shows and offer our space to everyone who wants to use it, but I need producers to come to the table now with a little more than just an idea." Previously funded shows are still welcome to perform at the Saloon and use its space, and they will not be charged for the platform. However, producers and cast will have to pay out of their pocket to put on their shows instead of being paid by the bar, and will rely on tips. The effects of this decision have already been seen with alternative drag show Ghoulfriends, which announced on May 8 that its final show would be on July 23. "Due to changes beyond our control, we are sorry to announce that July will be the final Ghoulfriends show," the story post read. "We thank you for the years of support, boos, and fun. You all made this an incredible experience for us, and we loved entertaining you all." Ghoulfriends was the first show to announce it would not be returning to the Saloon. However, the withdrawal of funds has left the future of multiple shows at risk, according to Slaymantha Fox, drag queen and producer of "Booked" and "Drag Show: The Musical." "Pretty simply, if we can't find the funding, the shows end. I can't speak for other producers, but personally, I can't afford to fund them myself, and honestly, most shows I don't make a profit other than tips," Fox said to Bring Me The News. "I created Booked because I was seeing a lot of performers coming up in the scene that weren't getting those bookings, and I just wanted to celebrate the underdogs to lift others up that otherwise wouldn't have a space." Booked has been a staple show at The Saloon since April 2022. According to Fox, Palmer had contacted them in late April to discuss the future of the bars' drag shows, and said they no longer had the funds to pay performers, with an exception for "Hot Pink," which has been the "headlining" show at The Saloon for years now, and its competition show "Werk." "You are going to start seeing a lot from me and possibly other producers asking for sponsorship... You might see GoFundMe's other forms to try and find the money to pay these performers because we don't want these shows to go away," Fox said live on Facebook on May 7. While the bar has said it is still supportive and welcomes drag performances in its space, the news of The Saloon's change spread within the community, causing many to voice their unhappiness at the situation. "I don't doubt there's a possibility of funds lacking. I just feel like this could've been done with a lot more communication,' frequent Saloon visitor, Juniper Foster said. "Seeing a drag space get relegated to one specific type of drag feels limiting and disappointing, especially in a city that has such a vibrant art scene." "I think it's easy to point the blame, and it's what humans do, right? We look for someone or something to direct our frustration, anger, and anxiety at. And until you have all the information, you'll only see it from one perspective," Fox said. "I encourage people to look deeper and do the math. Once I multiplied that across all the shows, it made more sense from a business standpoint. But I don't deny people's anger or frustration at the bar because it is upsetting." While Palmer told Bring Me The News that the bar is currently doing fine financially, the decision was made to ensure that it continues to stay afloat, saying that "the place is too important to too many people." Many have critiqued the decision, claiming that the bar profits heavily during Pride Month with its annual block party, which will take place from June 27-29. It features DJs, drag performers, and even a Ferris wheel. Tickets range from $44 for a day to $106 for a weekend pass. "I get what people think about it, but I need people to understand that Pride is very expensive to put on and it's very, very risky," Palmer said in response. "If we have bad weather, we are out of luck. I get what people think about it, but there is a large amount of anxiety and concern about it." Drag Queen Miz Diagnosis, formerly a host for Stand Up Saloon (SUS), a show cancelled months before this decision, said shows like SUS and Booked are "integral" to the local drag scene. "They were designed to push artists in a way that some shows don't. SUS always booked comedians to push themselves in front of a queer audience, and drag artists would get an opportunity to try stand up and/or comedic numbers for the first time," Diagnosis said to Bring Me The News. "Booked has monthly changing themes that allow its casts and guests to develop new numbers and work on passion projects/themes that may not be deemed 'marketable.' They were incubators for the art form of drag, and elevated it to new levels." The next Booked will be on May 23 at 8:30 p.m., and while the future remains uncertain, Fox said she has not given up yet. "I have a few leads on donors and sponsorship, but nothing confirmed or in writing yet. But I am hopeful," Fox said. "If we can stop pointing blame a bit and take a step back and come together as a community and find a positive constructive way forward we can solve this bump in the road. But people need to do the work, step up, and support each other." Upcoming shows at the Saloon can be found posted on their Instagram.
Forbes
31-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Crispiest Fried Chicken From Montana's The Ranch At Rock Creek
With its diverse landscape and vast wilderness, Montana boasts almost as many nicknames as it does mountains. From 'Big Sky Country' to 'Land of the Shining Mountains' to 'The Last Best Place' that access to land and wildlife feeds mind, body and soul. Jim Manley, owner of The Ranch at Rock Creek, knows this firsthand. He may have only opened The Ranch to guests a decade ago but everything they do reflects those deep roots and furthers the ties to the land and local communities. Located about an hour outside of Missoula, this all-inclusive ranch offers a true Montana experience with luxe yet homey touches like curated ranch-to-table cuisine, local Montana wine and everything in between. If you've seen contemporary western series Yellowstone or any of the spin offs, it's clear that the surge in cowboy nostalgia is on the rise. And yes, the show is filmed at a ranch nearby. The Ranch uses group dining as an opportunity to reflect the best of Montana-based cuisine. How does that work, exactly, in a luxury all-inclusive? Chef Zachary Ladwig says that it's really all about family style meals. 'It is the purest essence of dining. There is no better way to eat than to share with others around the table.' Side saddles at The Saloon at The Ranch at Rock Creek The term all-inclusive can be misleading but at The Ranch they take it to the next level. Everything is included from an on-site saloon (with bowling alley), extensive wine and cocktail list with local options, al fresco cowboy breakfasts and daily rotating meals. Activities and meals alike are seasonal and guests can choose from any number. Trail riding on horseback, archery, skiing, fly fishing and even sapphire mining from local Sapphire Mountain are all in demand but at the end of the day, everyone gathers for one of the most popular meals: hot honey fried chicken. Infamous fried chicken at The Ranch at Rock Creek When feeding a slew of hungry cowboy's, there are always things to consider. Here are three tips from Chef Ladwig for how to plan the best meal for any group. 'I find it best to think in terms of simplicity. When you are entertaining it's best to spend your time with family and friends. I always like to approach these meals as what can be delicious, simple and prepared ahead of time." Chef Ladwig explains. "Items like vegetable salads garnished with market greens simply dressed and slow roasted chicken in a Dutch oven with fennel leeks and olives are typical go to items. They allow me to pre-cook, pre-plate so when meal time comes it only takes a few minutes to get items served.' Since the seasons dictate the activities and dining locations just as much as they dictate the menu, each experience is hyper local. Expect outdoor ranch cuisine in the warmer months with cowboy breakfasts at Piney Pond over a live fire or the occasional steaks thrown onto the outdoor grill. Winter-time meals leans into fire-place filled dining rooms and reflect the cozier nature of the long winter nights. Cowboy Breakfast served at Piney Pond It's not all about where the meal is served. The ingredients are possibly even more important and good local Montana ingredients are everywhere. A solid relationship with the farmers who care for the food makes everything better. 'We have the benefit of working with great co-ops here at the ranch so that is one part of the equation.' Chef Ladwig explains. 'I really enjoy going to farmers markets in the surrounding areas and making the direct connection with those that are growing the items. It is paramount to build those relationships with the farmers and ranchers.' So, where does a chef find better ingredients? 'I always say spend a Saturday at the local farmer's market. See what the Farmers are producing. Pick what looks best and exciting." Says Chef Ladwig. "Don't be afraid to experiment with produce that you aren't super familiar with. Great farmers are always super proud of their vegetables and are a wealthy of knowledge as to the best way to cook with them.' The Ranch at Rock Creek At the end of the day, crispy fried chicken is a crowd pleaser. So what is Chef Ladwig's secret to that extra crispy chicken? It's simpler than you think. 'There are three main points to our Fried Chicken: A 24 hour brine, 24 hours of drying post brine, double frying.' Chef Ladwig explains. Crispy Fried Chicken from The Ranch at Rock Creek Begin by cutting 2 chickens into 8 pieces. Brine 1.5 gallons Buttermilk 0.5 gallons Pickle Liquid 4oz Smoked Paprika 1 oz Cayenne 1 oz Black pepper Dredge 4 oz Smoked paprika 2 oz Cayenne 2 oz Mustard seed 1 oz Black pepper 1 oz Galic powder 1 oz Onion powder 1 oz Oregano 4 lbs AP flour 1 lbs Corn starch 3.5 oz Kosher salt Prep & Plating Instructions Brine the Chicken overnight in a solution of water and 5% salt over night. Dry the chicken overnight in cooler. Marinade the chicken for 6 hours in the butter milk and spices. Press the chicken into the mixed dredge, and rest for 30 minutes before frying. Fry the chicken at 325 F for 7 minutes cool to room temp for 10-15 minutes. Refry at 350 for 4 minutes to finish at 170F.
