Whether you’re cozying up in your flannel pajamas with hot cocoa or planning spontaneous adventures with your besties, November is all about embracing the season of gratitude, warmth and a sprinkle of whimsy. From cozy cafes to adventurous hikes, Tucson is brimming with fun activities that’ll have you living your best life and channeling all the effortless magic energy of a feel-good movie. So grab your oversized sweater, put on your favorite soundtrack and let’s dive into the magic of November!
Ren Coffeehouse
This November, Ren Coffeehouse invites you to cozy up in a warm atmosphere where the rich scent of coffee mingles with the sound of laughter and creativity.
“I’d say when I was a kid, I was a pretty picky eater growing up. I’ve got three older siblings, and my mom was not willing to sort of cater to my pickiness and make me a separate meal every day,” said manager Chandler Donald. “So, she taught me how to start baking when I was really young, and I would cook for myself a whole lot.”
Donald knows what it takes to satisfy pastry lovers. He says the coffeehouse prioritizes different, one-of-a-kind pastries as they nurture each and every one of their products.
“I’d say the biggest thing is our wide selection. We have options for those who prefer gluten-free or vegan pastries,” Donald said. “We put a whole lot of care in everything, as it is all made from scratch.”
This November, customers can expect pies, such as apple or pecan, as well as warm cozy desserts for the holidays.
Where: 4300 N. Campbell Ave. Suite 24
View menus and learn more on their website.
Arizona Theatre Company
This November, step into the enchanting world of live theater at Arizona Theatre Company, where nostalgia and excitement collide! With classic performances like “Dial M For Murder” and the beloved holiday musical “Scrooge” audiences will be swept away by stories that resonate and performances that tug at your heartstrings.
“First of all, people should know that the show stars Schuler Hensley…Whenever Hugh Jackman does a show on Broadway, Schuler, Tony-winner for playing Judd in Oklahoma in Trevor Nun’s production, comes with. He was the original monster in Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein on Broadway […] so that’s a big thing that they should know,” said Matt August, artistic director of the show. “The other thing that they should know is that ‘Scrooge’ is the musical that was written by the same guy that did all of the music in ‘Willy Wonka and The Chocolate Factory.’”
For musical theater lovers, or anyone in general, this description might excite and leave one highly anticipating this event.
“This is a reworking of the 1970 film that [Leslie Brit] wrote when he wanted to remake the film and that I got exclusive rights to because he wanted me to do the film, but we wanted to do it on stage first […]. Our designer, the guy who designed the set, is an Emmy-winning designer who won the Emmy for a live performance of Jesus Christ Superstar that he did with John Legend,” August said.
“He’s now doing the Dua Lipa concert tour […]. Our lighting designer is the guy that lights Times Square for New Year’s Eve, as well as ‘Legally Blonde’ on Broadway […] Our costume designer is a wonderful international costume designer and our sound designer is a Tony nominated sound designer. We’ve really pulled out the stops for getting people here, that said, it stars about 24 local actors who are the best of the best in both Tucson and Phoenix.”
In the performance, the “Scrooge” lead, Schuler Hensley said, “We’ve got two U of A students, a Pima student and last year we had five U of A students in the show, one of which moved to New York and started working immediately doing some wonderful shows. This is a great opportunity for them as interns and a wonderful representation of the best of the local talent scene.”
“I first came last year to do this show, and that was my first time in Arizona coming from Georgia […] We have a sense of divide in a lot of areas of life, but one thing is certain when you come to the theater and get a room full of people watching a show. There’s that moment, even if it’s for two hours, where everybody can be a part of something and experience it together,” Hensley said. “And I think that’s what really makes theater super special and Arizona’s no exception.”
“I think Tucson in particular has a really unique art scene because of the people that live here. People come here because it’s a very smart, intellectual, creative town and they want to go out and experience those kinds of events. The great thing about a musical like ‘Scrooge’ is you’ve got something gorgeous to look at,” August said.
“I think it’s definitely a show that both challenges and inspires audiences and makes them think and feel and imagine. It just makes everybody feel much more connected, creative, smarter and enlightened on the way out.”
When: Nov. 3-30
Where: Arizona Theatre Company, 330 S. Scott Ave.
Find more information on the website.
Bella’s Gelato
Dive into a sweet autumn experience this month at Bella’s Gelato! Indulge in fall-inspired flavors like pumpkin spice and cookie butter, each scoop bursting with warmth and nostalgia.
Whether you’re grabbing a cone to enjoy on a crisp day or treating yourself to a cozy gelato bowl, Bella’s is the ultimate spot to celebrate the season’s deliciousness.
Where: 2648 E Speedway Blvd
