Giving thanks

The Leftover Last Waltz brings families together

Thanksgiving traditions vary from family to family. Some gather around the TV for the big game and stuff themselves with pie—others argue about politics and leave early in a huff. Matthew Schultz’s family’s Thanksgiving tradition was to watch Martin Scorsese’s seminal concert documentary The Last Waltz. 

The film documents The Band’s last performance in 1976 at Winterland Ballroom in San Francisco. The farewell show was free and open to the public and included a buffet, a formal waltz, and some very famous musical friends: Eric Clapton, Neil Diamond, Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, Ringo Starr and Neil Young to name a few.

“The biggest people you can think of … I grew up listening to this music and loving it,” Schultz said.

Schultz continued The Last Waltz tradition when he went off to college, playing it for friends, even gathering his whole fraternity to enjoy his favorite movie. With the help of his friend Hunter Rodgers, whose family owns and operates the legendary Cain’s Ballroom, it’s now a beloved public event going six years strong.

“What started as a family tradition has now started, in my mind, a Tulsa tradition,” Schultz said. “You see a lot of familiar faces. ... Some people have come every year, and it’s great because it becomes a tradition for their family too.”

Schultz said the event is a celebration of Tulsa’s musical, culinary and artistic communities—and an excuse to eat great food with friends and family. This year’s attendees can expect food from Burn Co., Mr. Nice Guys, Bohemian Pizzeria, Yokozuna, Duet and more. 

Before the movie Schultz always showcases a local musician. This year, local neo-soul queen Branjae jumped at the opportunity because the event raises money for the education initiatives at The Woody Guthrie Center, where she often works with vocal students. 

“What better way is there to raise money for The Woody Guthrie Center and help kids be creative and teach them to play instruments,” Schultz said. 

It means so much to Schultz to be able to share this tradition with several families around Tulsa, and he urges you to bring your friends and family to enjoy the festivities too.

“Even if 15 people showed up it would still mean so much to me,” Schultz said. “My dad isn’t around anymore, and this is the music he put on me—so it’s the kind of music I want to share. The event has a really personal touch to me.” 

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Leftover Last Waltz
Sunday, Nov. 24, 6 p.m. 
Cains Ballroom, 423 N. Main St.
$40