It’s not often art lovers get to see a work in progress let alone contribute to it, but Arizona Opera gives fans the opportunity to do just that this weekend when they present the first reading of “Riders of the Purple Sage” — an original opera based on Zane Grey’s western novel, set on the Arizona-Utah border.

It’s been nearly 10 years since his science-fiction indie “Primer” left audiences spellbound, which makes the arrival of Shane Carruth’s “Upstream Color” an even more momentous occasion.

The 300-plus-member Phoenix Children’s Chorus will be heard nationally with the broadcast of their appearance on National Public Radio’s “From the Top.” One of the most popular weekly music series on public radio, the show reaches more than 700,000 listeners on 250 stations across the country.

Between the two of them, filmmakers Lucien Castaing-Taylor and Véréna Paravel have explored sheepherding in Montana, auto shops and junkyards in Queens and most recently, the fishing industry in the North Atlantic. Their experimental documentary “Leviathan” is both visceral and gritty, in no way spoon-feeding its audience information, but rather, completely immersing them in the gruesome, often dangerous environment aboard a commercial fishing liner.

Isaiah 43:12 says, “I have revealed and saved and proclaimed — I, and not some foreign god among you. You are my witnesses,” declares the Lord, “that I am God.”

Enjoy a free concert from this young, up-and-coming quartet composed of faculty associates at Arizona State University. Pre-concert coffee service starts at 9 a.m.

As Valentine’s Day approaches, some individuals reflect on the questions: “Why am I alone?” “Why can’t I make a relationship work?”

When people think of Jewish film, their minds tend to jump right to two subjects: religion and the Holocaust. While the Greater Phoenix Jewish Film Festival certainly embraces those subject matters, executive director Jerry Mittelman ensures that they make up only a slice of the wide spectrum of films the fest has to offer.

Since 2007, I have been a guest commentator for the Ahwatukee Foothills News. During those 5-plus years, I have been one of the voices in the Greater Phoenix Metro to “carry the water” for progressive thought.

A series of new restrictions on abortions in the last four years has propelled Arizona into the Top Five of all states in a list of places considered most friendly to "pro-life'' issues.

In the eight years I’ve taken on the regular duty of reviewing movies, 2012 just might have been the best. It wasn’t easy compiling a top 30 list for a 12-month period of so many diverse, outstanding films. I found myself having to make some absolutely painful snubs, including “Flight,” “The Sessions,” “The Hobbit: An Expected Journey,” and a little cinematic masterpiece by the name of “21 Jump Street.” In the end though, I managed to narrow the list down to the 20 titles that best encompass 2012 in all its glory. If you’re still behind on the movies of yesteryear, consider this your ultimate movie guide to 2012.

Several Mesa residents hit the road to ring in the new year. But they weren’t looking to take part in normal New Year’s festivities like watching television as a glass ball descended a pole in Times Square, watching fireworks or clinking champagne glasses.

As Kylie Butler makes her way to 1,000 career points, she’d sure like to thank the guy who just might have started her on the right path.

"Les Misérables” has had a long, arduous journey to the silver screen. It’s been in the works for so long that at one point the film was going to be directed by the now retired Alan Parker, who made the original “Fame” and 1996 adaptation of “Evita.” After decades of rotting in development limbo, the cherished musical finally sees the light of day via the artistic eye of director Tom Hooper of “The King’s Speech. Hooper’s interpretation of “Les Misérables” is a majestic experience composed of enormous sets, elegant costumes, and pitch perfect performances from the entire ensemble. This may very well be the most triumphant movie musical since the genre made a comeback a decade ago with “Moulin Rouge!” and “Chicago.”

Here are The Associated Press’ reviews of selected holiday albums:

Many prospective employers seem to be scared of the risks of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among veterans in the civilian workplace, according to a think tank composed of business, military and health leaders.

‘Lincoln’

‘Cloud Atlas’

Jones, Skelton & Hochuli, PLC announced that Michael Ludwig has been appointed president of the board of directors for the Arizona Association of Defense Counsel (AADC) as they enter their 47th year of service. His term will be for one year. Ludwig previously served as president-elect and membership chair for AADC.

Jones, Skelton & Hochuli, PLC announced that Michael Ludwig has been appointed president of the board of directors for the Arizona Association of Defense Counsel (AADC) as they enter their 47th year of service. His term will be for one year. Ludwig previously served as president-elect and membership chair for AADC.

‘The Possession’

The president of the Arizona Board of Regents, Tom Anderes, has announced that he will not seek a contract extension to his existing three-year term ending June 30, 2013.

Most parents hear pitter-patter of little feet unsteadily making their way down a hallway.

Most parents hear pitter-patter of little feet unsteadily making their way down a hallway.