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The Boy in the Bathroom opened with a bang on Thursday, February 2nd at the Bloomington Playwrights Project. The three shows last weekend were all sold out, and for good reason! This charming musical stars Evan Mayer as David, a college dropout who suffers from an extreme case of OCD and hasn't left the bathroom in over a year. This may sound depressing, but the play is actually very entertaining and humorous with his mother's (Lisa Kurz) sarcasm and Julie's (Indiana University freshman Maddie Shea Baldwin) cheesy knock-knock jokes.

Julie is hired by David's mom to clean around the house, and at first she thinks David is just a weirdo (who wouldn't-he sleeps in the bathtub!), but they end up falling in love as they tease each other and play board games through the bathroom door. She begs David to come out and run away with her, but is it enough? Find out for yourself! Do not miss this opportunity to see this clever production of The Boy in the Bathroom that is sure to receive a standing ovation time and time again.

The show runs through February 18. See www.newplays.org for more information or to order your tickets. 

This guest blog was written by one of Visit Bloomington's current Visitor Information Specialists, Kelsey Bussen. If you've called the Visitors Center recently, you may have spoken with Kelsey, who is currently pursuing a degree in Tourism Management from Indiana University.

Posted on: Thursday, Feb 9, 2012 1:55 PM by: Intern Intern

Are you looking for something fun to do with your Valentine on this upcoming day of love? Well here are just a few specials that are going on in Bloomington during the next week.

Valentine's Day at Scholars Inn Gourmet Café and Wine Bar Four incredible courses with many options - only $65 per person! Enjoy wine and champagne specials as well (go to scholarsinn.com for the full menu). For reservations to Bloomington's most romantic restaurant, call 812-32-1892. Lights! Camera! Murder! At the Pourhouse Café It's an After Oscars Party Mystery Dessert Buffet! Friday, February 17 from 7-9 pm at the Pourhouse Café, 314 E. Kirkwood Ave. Be a part of the story with identity tickets for just $20; Non-identity tickets are $15. For more information, call 812-339-7000. Upland Brewing Company Valentine's Day Beer and Food Pairing Dinner Enjoy a four course dinner paired with Upland Brewing Company's delicious local brews on Tuesday, February 14 at 7 pm at the Upland Banquet Space. The Chef will be there to discuss the food and a brewer will be ready to answer questions about the beer! Only $50 per person; tickets can be purchased at the Upland Tap Room Contact Christen for reservations. Celebrate Valentine's Day at Scotty's Brewhouse Bloomington Two people eat for $30 at Scotty's Brewhouse. This offer is not just for couples, bring a group of friends to celebrate! Includes one appetizer, two entrees and one dessert off of the specialty menu. No reservations are taken at Scotty's - first come, first served. Enjoy a Valentine's weekend with Bloomington's Wineries The Indiana Uplands Wine Trail presents a Chocolate Lovers Getaway, featuring free chocolate and wine pairings during weekends surrounding Valentine's Day (Feb 11, 12, 18, and 19). Available at all wineries on the Indiana Uplands Wine Trail, including Oliver Winery and Butler Winery & Vineyards in Bloomington. The Irish Lion Valentine's Day Sparkling Wines Dinner On Tuesday, February 14 from 4-10 pm, The Irish Lion presents a three course meal for just $49 per person at one of Bloomigton's favorite restaurants. Reservations are suggested; Call 812-336-9076.

Looking to stay the night? Find a great deal on our special offers page and extend your celebration in Bloomington! 

This post comes to you from our current intern at Visit Bloomington, Tom Leland. Tom is seeking degrees in Tourism Management as well as German and hopes to spend some time working in Germany after graduation. He spends a lot of time playing piano and enjoys riding his bike around Bloomington and playing golf and soccer.  

Posted on: Wednesday, Feb 8, 2012 9:39 AM by: Intern Intern

Here are some words of wisdom from our intern, Lauren, as she welcomes IU's incoming freshman class to Orientation this summer. 

Freshman Orientation is well under way and as I talk to all the incoming freshmen I can't help but reminisce about my past four years here in Bloomington. It's been an interesting journey, definitely with its fair share of ups and downs, but overall it's been a great experience. I've been able to do and experience things here no other university or town could offer, everything from a whitewater rafting class to spending a semester in Hawai'i; Broadway musicals to world class opera. 

Bloomington itself is such a unique town, it's hard not to fall in love with this place. With state parks and incredible hiking available in any direction and annual festivals such as Lotus and Taste, there's always something to do. And the restaurants! With everything from Tibetan to Thai, Mongolian to Japanese and everything in between, it's sometimes difficult to choose just one!

My advice to incoming freshmen would be "work hard, play hard." There will be moments you want to give up, but believe me, it will get better! Experience new things and step outside of your comfort zone. Talk to new people, join a club or start your own! Learn to kayak or rock climb. There's something here for everyone. It's hard to believe it's been four years since I was going through the same orientation programs these new students are now and I wish them the best as they start their journey!

Posted on: Wednesday, Jul 13, 2011 5:52 AM by: Tosha Daugherty

Here's a quick restaurant review from Sugi, one of the Indiana University students who works at our front desk. He visited Malibu Grill for the first time last week and was so excited, he wanted to share his thoughts with you!

Had Fish Taco for starters and it was very delicious! Main course was Hawaiian Rib eye and it was excellent. The place is not brightly lit which is a perfect place for couples. There is someone playing the piano and you can request any song to be played. There is also a bar. Overall, Malibu Grill was awesome. I would want to go there again. Posted on: Monday, Jun 27, 2011 7:49 AM by: Tosha Daugherty

Here's the very first post from our summer intern, Lauren! She's going to be letting you in on some inside information on how to spend a great summer in Bloomington from a student's perspective. Be sure to leave her a comment or two!  

Last Thursday night I got to see a preview of the newest BPP production "Still the River Runs". This was my very first visit to the Bloomington Playwright's Project and I can't believe I waited this long to go! The theater itself is small yet comfortable and the fog machine definitely set the mood for the play, which takes place in the swamplands of central Florida. It's only a two-man show with a fairly simple set but they honestly don't need anyone or anything else. Gabe Gloden and Daniel J. Petrie put on a great show! Their performance was both lighthearted and thought-provoking and they seem to have a natural ability to capture the audience and draw you into the story. On the surface the play is about two brothers who steal their grandfather's body from his coffin during the funeral and bury him in a place that holds more meaning. As the play progresses the audience learns more about the brothers and the internal struggles and challenges they face. Even by the end, I left wondering what would happen next in the brothers' lives. There are parts that made me laugh out loud (listen for the whale talk) and other parts that were very deep and sincere. In short, this production is definitely worth a look and if you're a fan of country and folk music you don't want to miss it!  

Also, if you're looking for something to do before the show, Scholar's Inn Gourmet Café and Wine Bar has created a special drink called the Swamp Thing Martini inspired by the production. It is an Arnold Palmer "with a strong Southern kick" and it's sure to be a hit!

They will also be performing May 26-28 and June 2-4 at 8 pm so you have plenty of opportunities to catch this performance!

Posted on: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 1:38 PM by: Tosha Daugherty

Today's post is brought to you by our guest blogger, Indiana University student (and spring intern) Andrea. Here's a look at one of Andrea's favorite spring and summer pastimes in B-town:

Spring is here and summer is right around the corner, which means as the days get warmer everyone wants to be outside and enjoy the sunny weather after being cooped up all winter. As summer rolls around, that also means that Bloomington area restaurants with patio seating are opening up their patios giving customers an option to enjoy the nice sunny weather while dining out. For me and my friends, one of our favorite things to do on a nice summer day is to eat outside downtown at one of the many restaurants that have patio seating. We have a tough time deciding because there are quite a few options, but we usually alternate between Crazy Horse and Kilroys Bar and Grill.

The reason we love Kilroys on Kirkwood is because of the cheap appetizers, drink specials and the crazy college student atmosphere. On a nice and sunny day their patio is usually always full and the people passing by on the streets are pretty entertaining to watch. Tuesday is the best day to go to Kilroys because appetizers and drinks are only $2. You can eat and have three drinks for under $10!

On the other hand, we choose to go to Crazy Horse a lot because of the more relaxed atmosphere, yummy food and beer specials. When we go to Crazy Horse we usually share pitchers of beer and their amazing mushrooms and cheese sticks appetizers. Yum! Sometimes we find ourselves spending whole afternoons chatting away, drinking beer, nibbling on appetizers and enjoying the downtown mix of people and atmosphere.

Leave us a comment and let us know where you like to dine out on the patio when you're in B-town!

Posted on: Wednesday, Mar 30, 2011 by: Tosha Daugherty

Guest post by CVB intern Megan, who is finishing her last week of her internship and ready to face the world. . . . . . . .

Being a senior in college, and on the verge of graduation, I find myself reminiscing about the past few years here at IU – all the things I've done, some things I wish I'd done, and maybe a few things I shouldn't have done…(freshmen year anyone?)  Last weekend, I went out to Brothers with one of my best friends, Drew.  Drew and I met our first day coming to IU doing a program called IFS (Intensive Freshmen Seminar) the summer before our freshmen year started and lived on the same floor (shout out to Foster Jenkison!).  Both from Maryland, we found out were from the same area and even went to rival high schools.  We've been friends ever since.  Anyways, we ended up bumping into a friend from our freshmen year that we had not seen in a while and we shared quite a few laughs over some of our memories.  It's hard to believe that just a few years ago we were all the typical freshmen - hanging out in the dorms, sleeping through a 12 PM class, and just trying to find a party. 

Now, on the verge of graduation, it is time to join the dreaded "real world."  I used to laugh when people would say that college is the best time in your life, but am finally realizing how true it is.  I have so many fond memories of my time here in Bloomington.  It really is one of the greatest college towns.  With a beautiful campus, a vibrant downtown,  people from all walks of life, and an abundance of outdoor activities, I will always look back on my college years at IU and smile.

"You have four years to be irresponsible here. Relax. Work is for people with jobs. You'll never remember class time, but you'll remember time you wasted hanging out with your friends. So, stay out late. Go out on a Tuesday with your friends when you have a paper due Wednesday. Spend money you don't have. Drink 'til sunrise. The work never ends, but college does..."

- Tom Petty

 

Posted on: Monday, Apr 13, 2009 12:57 PM by: Laura Newton

Another installment from our Nightlife Intern, experiencing the summer months in Bloomington:

Ok, so I would venture to say that at least one time in everyone's life, they've thrown their inhibitions to the wind in front of a half-packed, inebriated crowd and sang an off beat rendition of "I've Got You Babe."  This, my friends, is known to many cultures the world over as "Karaoke."  Quite possibly the world's most wonderful invention, karaoke combines unjustifiable vocal confidence with alcohol-assisted stage presence, to create peer pressured impromptu musical performances that can only be described as virtuoso.

But what if you're not all about the fame, and care to divulge yourself in musical glory, but in a smaller more intimate setting with a few (hopefully very loyal) friends?  If this sounds like you, I think I might have a recommendation that will make you crescendo in joy. My solution for you comes from a date that I was on just last weekend.  A friend of mine asked me if I would be interested in double dating with him and a girl he just very recently met (double date = typical awkwardness deterrent mechanism).  I decided it would be fun, so I snagged myself a date (if you see this….I hope you had fun) and I decided to go. Our choice of dining was sushi at Bloomington's very own Japanee, located on North Walnut Street.  Little did I know at this time, I was putting in motion a series of events that would lead to one of the most ridiculously good times I have had in weeks.

By this time in my rambling incoherent mess of a bog entry, you are probably thinking I should get to the point and explain how this date/dinner could possibly lead to obnoxious renditions of Hanson and Aerosmith (both my song choices).  After some delicious raw treats from beneath the sea and a couple bottles of wine, someone suggested that some sake-bombs were in order. If you're not familiar, this is when you carefully place two chopsticks on top of a large plastic glass, and then place a small shot of sake on top of the chopsticks.  Inside the glass should be about two inches worth of Sapporo (any Japanese beer will do). The taker of the sake-bomb then pounds his or her fists three times saying sake, sake, sake, on the fourth pound the taker yells bomb whilst slamming his or her hands upon the table causing the shot of sake to fall into the beer.  All that's left to do is chug the drink and enjoy the public insubordination that will likely ensue before the night is over.

If you haven't already imagined, this endeavor is very loud, very messy, and very fun. Being that we were currently dining in the trendy but casual dining room, we couldn't help but to feel the appropriateness of asking our server if such boisterous activities would be permitted. Not only were they permitted, but strongly encouraged, but in one of their private karaoke rooms! The room was about twelve feet by twelve feet and offered wonderfully modern couches that surround a huge table.  At the far end of the room was a big flat screen TV and a state-of-the-art karaoke system. The four of us graciously accepted the room and began a night complete with several bottles of wine, at least four of five rounds of "sake-bombs," and some of the worst singing I have ever heard! 

The list had pretty much any song you would want to sing in a karaoke place.  The drinks were awesome, the sushi was fresh and inspired, and our company was perfect. We were able to save our reticence from the outside world, but still make fools of ourselves in front of our companions. Although the price of the night was pretty high, I would strongly recommend this activity for anyone. Whether you are looking for a unique entertainment venue for your family, a fun date, or just a place to celebrate a birthday, I think Japanee's karaoke rooms are great and I believe you will too.  Just one last thing, no "Stairway,"…….seriously.

Please.            

       

Posted on: Tuesday, Jul 22, 2008 by: Tosha Daugherty

Here's another entry from our intrepid young "nightlife intern" who recently discovered something that past alumni and local residents have been enjoying for decades . . .

Laugh – to show emotion (as mirth, joy, or scorn) with a chuckle or explosive vocal sound. "laugh." Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary

To laugh is possibly one of the most peculiar of all human responses.  Every year, Hollywood racks in millions and millions of dollars on movies that help facilitate this wonderful activity.  But with movie theater ticket prices on the rise, who wants to pay eight or more dollars on a movie when the funniest parts can be seen in TV commercials?  Even worst, I have yet to find a movie theater that helps ease the cravings for one of Bloomington's favorite enjoyments, a fine alcoholic beverage. I believe trendy Bloomingtonian's deserve better!  But where in Bloomington, might you ask, can someone find first class, knee slapping, abs of steel laughter, and a cocktail that makes your face look like the sun is in your eyes?  Well my friends, I believe I just might have the answer for you, "Comedy Caravan."

Comedy Caravan is the longest running one night comedy show in the country and it takes place right here in Bloomington every Monday and Saturday night at Bear's Place, 1316 E. 3rd Street.  Bear's Place is a Bloomington tradition and has been hosting Comedy Caravan for over 23 years.  Within those 23 years they have hosted a myriad of up and coming comedians. USA Today, in their article titled "10 Great Places to Sit Down and Watch Stand Up," had this to say about Bear's Place and Comedy Caravan:

 "We have to include a one nighter, "the staple of comic road warriors everywhere."  This one, just outside of Indiana University's campus, presents it's "Comedy Caravan" only two nights a week, but it gets packed, and anybody who's anybody has played there-there are pictures of them on the walls."

 As you first enter Bear's Place and you walk down the aisles of dark wooden booths that line your path, you can't help but get the feeling that you've just entered someplace special. The pictures that were mentioned deck the walls of the final passageway into the small theater. The faces of world-class comedians stare down at you while you wait in line. A sort of nostalgic reflection takes you over while you look at the faces of two decades of stand up comedians, and wonder if the comic you are about to see will one day take over his or her own sit-com or headline for an HBO stand up special.

I am truly embarrassed to say that I experienced Comedy Caravan for the very first time this last Monday. A couple of friends and I decided that after four years singing karaoke at Bear's, it was finally time to enjoy their one-of-a-kind Bloomington tradition, the stand up comedy show.  Luckily we came thirsty; this is because Bear's offers another local tradition, "the Hairy Bear."  I don't know if they named the beverage this because after you drink it, your chest looks like it could put Tom Selleck to shame, or if it's because you would probably wrestle a bear if they were native to Indiana, but either way, it's potent, cheap, and halfway through it, delicious.  They offered three comedians and they were all hilarious. Bear's also offers a great menu. I recommend the sandwiches; they are cheap in price, but high on taste.

So, the next time you are free on a Monday or Saturday night, give Bear's Place/Comedy Caravan a try. Tickets are only five dollars on Monday and seven on Saturday, and as long as you like great food, a great atmosphere, long traditions, strong drinks, the smell of an old pub and laughing till your stomach hurts, you won't regret it. Order a Hairy Bear and don't worry about the negative effects that a potent beverage can have on the body, because laughter has been proven to reduce stress, strengthen your internal muscles and heart, increase your threshold for pain, reduce your appetite and increase social development between people. Case in point, I'm not a doctor and in no way am I qualified to make this statement, but I'm pretty sure laughing cancels out drinking, so just have a good time!  Oh yeah, and don't forget to go early, this is a very popular activity, and seats can fill up fast.        

Posted on: Friday, Jun 20, 2008 by: Tosha Daugherty

Blogger's Note: This is the first of what will probably be many posts written by guest bloggers throughout the Bloomington Community. This take on the classy side of B-town's nightlife is brought to us by the "Nightlife Intern."

Streets crawling with crimson and cream, undergrads enjoying a pitcher of their favorite brew on a red bricked patio, ambitious high school seniors experiencing the reflection of limestone architecture on the Jordan River for the first time, a local musician with a change filled baseball cap between him and his guitar case, and the smell of Janko's steak house from the town square; without hesitation or equivocation, I can honestly say that there is no more special place that I have traveled to than Bloomington, Indiana. But who, you may ask, am I?

I'm a graduating intern for the Bloomington Monroe County Convention and Visitors Bureau. In my four years studying tourism at Indiana University, I have traveled throughout the country and abroad experiencing many different places. My passion is travel, and my senses are constantly telling me I need more. I truly plan on working to live, not the other way around.  In the next couple months I will use my experience and passion to periodically write about the nightlife, entertainment, food and spirits, which keep thousands of people each year bleeding crimson and cream, awaiting their next visit to the rolling limestone hills of Bloomington, Indiana.

In June, I will experience my first birthday within the borders of my Alma Mater. I was sitting down with a couple of friends when Mom called with news that she would be "dropping by" for the special occasion. Suddenly, my plans of singing "Midnight Train" and "Take Me Home Tonight" with a juke box and a couple hundred undergraduates have changed. Although fun for me, many parents (including mine) don't normally go for that scene. I had to find some entertainment that is baby boomer friendly but not too uptight. This got me thinking, what are some great bars for middle-aged travelers, visiting parents, and college students?  With Greek alumni weekends, parent weekends, commencement and Broadway shows coming to town regularly, I would imagine that I couldn't be the only student, or even parent/middle-aged traveler who has begged for an answer to that question. 

Fortunately, Bloomington is home to a myriad of venues with excellent wine tasting, martinis, cocktails, margaritas and beer that are perfect for the grown-up traveler. Whether you're a student planning a weekend for your parents, parents planning a weekend for yourself, or just passing through and interested in a little more class than your average college bar, here are a couple picks that are sure to impress.

For live jazz, great cocktails, a small-town culture, and a lot of great wine, Jazz at the Station is a great pick. Jazz at the station is located in between Walnut Street and College Avenue in a renovated train station. This hot spot features great food, great drinks, and nightly live entertainment that all jazz lovers are sure to enjoy. 

For an upscale, yet surprisingly casual, ambiance look no further than Malibu Grill located on Walnut Street in downtown, just across from the courthouse. This trendy hot spot has been a regular stop for noted alums, pro athletes, and local enthusiasts. Malibu is home to Bloomington's only wood fire oven, and possibly the best mojitos in town. The bar staff is excellent and sure to make you feel like a regular no matter how many times you enter the doors. They also serve great cocktails and martinis. You might even catch their house pianist playing on the grand piano.

If wine is on your list, Bloomington offers some marvelous selections.  My personal favorite and closest to campus is Tutto Bene. Tutto Bene, located on the corner of Rogers Street and Kirkwood Avenue, offers a great wine selection, amazing French décor, great cheese platters and appetizers. It's an amazing spot for a date, social, or just to drop in and relax. They offer unbelievably comfortable seating for groups of all sizes in their champagne room-like-booths.

Maybe you just want to catch a beer with Dad in a casual but not too rowdy atmosphere. For this you might try Crazy Horse on Kirkwood.  They have a huge selection and great menu. Case in point, Bloomington is home to anything you might be looking for.  If the wild party scene is your prerogative, it's certainly not too hard to find.  However, Bloomington is also home to a surfeit amount of great restaurants, classy wineries, and trendy entertainment that Mom, Dad, Aunt, Uncle, Grandma, and Grandpa are all sure to appreciate.  For the birthday weekend with the folks, I think I'll do Jazz at the Station, then a night cap at Crazy Horse for a brew with Dad. So if you are planning on stopping into town and want to avoid turntables and the regular two dollar drink crowd, or you are expecting visitors and you want to show them uptown class with a little small town hospitality, keep Bloomington on your list.   

Posted on: Wednesday, May 28, 2008 by: Tosha Daugherty